Reviews

HiFi Walker H2: Four-minute review

The HiFi Walker H2 has carved out a very unique spot itself in the portable media players market. When it comes to MP3 players or digital audio players, the space between the super-cheap Amazon-flooding options and the super-premium bank-account-draining high-end best MP3 players is a no-man’s land. Into that desolate area strides the HiFi Walker H2, which is lovely and premium in some aspects and startlingly rough in others.

HiFi Walker is a Hong Kong-based tech company that, according to its website, only seems to make four products: a bone conduction headphone, an MP3 player carry case, a touch-controlled MP3 player and this, the HiFi Walker H2. I’d put money on the fact that you heard about this device on Amazon, or another shopping website, when looking for a new MP3 player.

So, should you pick up the HiFi Walker H2? Well, that really depends on what you’re looking for. If you’re looking for an alternative to the kinds of feature-flush digital audio player that make up our list of the best MP3 player, then the HiFi Walker H2 might be your best option that doesn’t cost an eye-watering four-figure sum.

The device supports a wide range of audio file types including MP3, WAV, AAC, FLAC and WMA, with a Texas Instruments-made DAC that’s a favorite amongst audiophiles and an on-board equalizer so you can tweak your sounds depending on your tastes and ears.

With two 3.5mm headphone ports, you can plug in headphones or connect the player to your home sound system or vehicle stereo; there’s also Bluetooth compatibility so you can stream wirelessly to other devices or from your smartphone using Qualcomm aptX. The HiFi Walker really ticks as many connectivity options as it can.

If you just care about your listening experience to the exclusion of everything else, then, this is a great device that far undercuts similarly-featured rivals. But that’s at a big expense: in almost every other department, the HiFi Walker is a bit of a dud.

Take the battery life, for example: the device lasts for roughly 10 hours of listening before going flat (a figure which is even lower if you’re listening via Bluetooth). For some people, that’s not even a full working day of listening, and it’s much less than the vast majority of the device’s rivals.

The design is another area that needed a second draft: it’s basically a big bulky block. The glass rear picks up fingerprints quicker than a crime scene investigator and the device weighs down your pocket like a big rock.

Perhaps the most questionable area is the software though, which would be most aptly described as ‘harebrained’. Over the course of my testing the HiFi Walker, I never quite worked out how to get around in a manner beyond ‘pressing random buttons to see what happens’. Sometimes pressing ‘back’ from a song menu will take you onto the music player, other times it’ll take you one step back in the menu list. I could never work out if I should play songs from the ‘explorer’ menu or ‘category’. There are two different settings menus with options randomly scattered between the two.

All of the above is to say, the HiFi Walker H2 has plenty of rough edges, and so it’s really only worth considering if you need great audio and the only cost you care about is the financial one.

HiFi Walker H2 review: Price and release date

(Image credit: Future)

• Costs $149 / £129 (roughly AU$230)
• Not the cheapest, but pretty cheap

The default price of the HiFi Walker is $149 / £129 (roughly AU$230) but you likely don’t need to reach that far into your wallet; at the time of writing, the device is on sale for $120 / £105 (roughly AU$200) and its price seems to fluctuate between these prices, sometimes going even lower.

At that price, this certainly isn’t the cheapest MP3 player we’ve ever tested, and there are options at the mid-two-figures mark that are certainly worth buying if you’re looking for a simple and portable music player.

However some DAPs (digital audio players) on the market go for eye-watering four-figure sums, and a brief perusal of our list of the best MP3 players shows plenty of much more expensive rivals. The HiFi Walker holds its head against some of those, making a decent case as to its place as a budget alternative.

If you see a pricier device on sale, that’s actually the HiFi Walker H2 Touch, a touch-screen version that’s about $20 / £20 more expensive and is different in a few ways. That’s not the device being tested for this review.

HiFi Walker H2 review: Features

(Image credit: Future)

• 10-hour battery life max
• Onboard equalizer is handy
• Two 3.5mm ports and Bluetooth connectivity options

According to HiFi Walker, the battery life of the H2 is 10 hours of use. Some of you may be wondering something to which the audio-tech-heads already know the answer: no, that’s not very long at all. It’ll be fine for listening at home or on short walks, but don’t expect to take it on long holidays (unless you’ll spend lots of time near a charging port).

I should also mention that users online have reporting a use time that’s somehow even shorter, closer to 8 hours. I tested using wired headphones and 10 felt like a more appropriate estimate, but if you rely on Bluetooth for your listening, this 8-hour figure is probably more apt.

So what features does the HiFi Walker H2 have on board? The first, and perhaps most important, is an onboard equalizer to let you tweak the sound of your music to your ears.

There are various presents including rock, jazz and ‘classic’ (presumably classical), but you can also jump into a custom mode if you dare. This requires an adept understanding of the various navigation hiccups of the H2 (more on that later), but it gives audiophiles a lot of leeway to control their musical experience.

Otherwise, the H2 is distinctly feature-bare. There’s no support for non-musical file formats, no in-device recorder, and relatively little way to customize the device.

The HiFi Walker’s saving grace is its range of connectivity options, which should impress people with lots of gadgets. There are not one but two 3.5mm aux ports, so you can plug in headphones or a jack to connect it to your existing hi-fi systems, and it connects using Bluetooth not just to headphones but to a smartphone as well.

This is done using Qualcomm’s aptX, and it’s meant to let you pull through your phone’s songs onto your HiFi Walker to control it in an extra way… in theory. In practice, the H2 failed to pair with my phone on every occasion, so I never got to test the feature.

• Features score: 3.5/5

HiFi Walker H2 review: Design

(Image credit: Future)

• Giant black obelisk
• Heavy, but not too heavy
• Plenty of buttons across the body

The images that accompany this review aren’t screenshots from ‘2001: A Space Odyssey’. No, it’s the HiFi Walker H2, which is perhaps cosplaying as the famous monolith, in that it’s a big black rectangle. 

The device measures 5.6 x 1.5 x 8.9cm so it’s about average sized for a DAP: bigger than your cheap MP3 player but not as big as some of the chunky top-end models on the market. However with a weight of 150g it’s really showing its heft; this isn’t gadget you can idly chuck in your pocket or leave on your chest as you doze.

An interesting little design feature is the presence of a gap at the bottom-right of the face of the device, which seemingly looks like it’s for a lanyard or wrist grasp to attach to. One is not included in the box. 

It’s fair to say that the H2 has more buttons in more places than a Bop-It game. The top edge has the power button, the right edge has the volume rocker and an exposed microSD card slot, and the bottom edge has one USB-C and two 3.5mm audio ports.

On the front you’ve got a forward and backward button on the right edge, with a back button below them. To the left you’re looking at an iPad Classic-style scroll wheel with a pause/play button in the middle, and under that is the M button. If you press M during music playback, it brings up a list of options including the equalizer and the option to add the song to your favorites.

The screen measures 2 inches diagonally, with a resolution of 320 x 240. That’s almost fit for purpose – almost but not quite, and so album artwork is generally cropped off for its lower fifth when you’re listening to music. Unlike most rivals it’s not a touchscreen.

Instead, you’re using that scroll wheel to navigate menus. Thankfully it’s nice and responsive, with a little physical ‘click’ at every interval to indicate that you’ve scrolled onto the next option. This may be blasphemous to some, but I think I prefer it to the one on ye olde iPod!

No official IP rating has been provided for the HiFi Walker H2, so don’t take it in the bath with you.

• Design score: 3/5

HiFi Walker H2 review: Usability and setup

(Image credit: Future)

• Easy to add files via USB-C
• Memory card is technically external
• Confusing interface layout

Adding music the the H2 couldn’t be simpler: you plug it into your computer, drag audio files onto its window and disconnect the device. It couldn’t be simpler!

By default, the HiFi Walker H2 has 64GB memory for storage. I say “by default” instead of “on-board” as there is no on-board storage, and this 64GB is thanks to a microSD card lodged in the side of the device. Remove it and you can’t listen to music; you can swap it for a higher-storage option up to 256GB for more space though.

This could be really useful for people who really want to easily swap between, for example, their jazz cards, or their opera cards, or their pop-rock cards. However for the average user, this is just a potential tiny piece of tech to use — particularly because the card is literally poking out of the H2’s body, and you can eject it by pressing it.

If you find the thought of juggling microSD cards daunting, then maybe click off this review now, because the process of actually navigating the HiFi Walker’s menus is an absolute nightmare.

The user interface layout of this MP3 player is illogical and confusing. It’s easy to sum this up by pointing out one thing: there are four options on the main menu: ‘category’, ‘explorer’, ‘settings’ and ‘system settings’. To make that clear; the first duo are two different ways to scroll through your music library, the second duo are two different lists of settings.

So which of those options do you press in order to explore your library of songs? If you picked ‘explore’ you’re wrong, it’s category. What about to change the system-wide wallpaper? If you picked ‘system settings’, you’re once again wrong, it’s just ‘settings’.

The myriad buttons you have at your disposal are confusing too, not least because they seem to do different things. Sometimes when you’re in a menu, hovering over a song, the M button will add a song to your favorites. Other times it’ll prompt you to start a new playlist, and in some other circumstances it’ll just act like the ‘select’ button. Same as with the back button and foward/backward buttons too.

Honestly, navigation in general is a pain, and it took me a while to figure out how to get around the user interface — after two weeks of testing, I sometimes still get lost. If you own this product, here’s my helpful tip: pressing the power button once just turns off the screen, and you need to press and hold to turn the whole system off.

As a reviewer, I probably shouldn’t also gripe about spelling and grammar mistakes in the user interface… but as a writer, I’d be remiss if I didn’t bring that up too!

• Usability & setup score: 3/5

HiFi Walker H2 review: Sound quality

(Image credit: Future)

• Neutral sound
• Plenty of file formats supported

I’m going to give it to the HiFi Walker: this review has been fairly middling, but it’s ticking all the boxes when it comes to sound quality.

The player’s default sound quality is slap-bang neutral: don’t expect any booming basses or shrill trebles here. It’s inoffensive but lovely and balanced.

I say ‘lovely’ because the equaliser is right there: you’ve got a nice blank slate so you can tweak the sound to your heart’s content.

The H2 plays loads of different file formats; whether your library is saved in MP3, WMA, WAV, OGG, AIF, AAC or even DSD, you can play them on this device.

• Sound quality score: 4/5

HiFi Walker H2 review: Value

(Image credit: Future)

• Much cheaper than high-end audio players
• Pricier than budget MP3 players

If all you care about is listening to a range of audio file types on a range of devices, then the HiFi Walker H2 absolutely offers value for money; its price is a fraction of what you’d pay for many rival devices offering similar feature sets.

However if you just want a simple digital audio player so you can listen to tunes when out and about, the H2’s price just won’t be worth it when you consider all the rough edges in the user interface and design.

• Value score: 3/5

Should I buy the HiFi Walker H2?

(Image credit: Future) Buy it if... Don't buy it if... HiFi Walker H2 review: Also consider How I tested the HiFi Walker H2

(Image credit: Future)

• Two-week testing period
• Pop, rock, classical and spoken word music tested
• Used at home, in the office and on walks

I tested the HiFi Walker H2 using a range of headphones including Bluetooth-connected over-ears, wired in-ears and my running headphones. The testing was done simultaneously to several other MP3 players to give some context to it.

The music I listened to was largely classical but I also tested using rock, pop and hip-hop to get a wide mix of genres. This was mainly done in the H2's default sound state but I fiddled with the equalizer a little too.

I have over five years of experience under the belt testing gadgets for TechRadar which includes, in the audio space, speakers, over-ear headphones, earbuds and radios.

• First reviewed May 2024
• Read TechRadar's reviews guarantee

Specs

Type: color A4 LED/laser all-in-one  

Functions: print, scan, copy, fax  

Connectivity: USB, Wi-Fi, Ethernet 

Data storage slots: USB Host     

Print speed: 31ppm (mono) 

Paper capacity: 250 + 30 sheets

Print quality: 600 x 600 dpi

Scan quality: 600 x 600 dpi

Apple AirPrint: yes 

Consumables included: 4x toner cartridges (3,000 mono pages, 1,400 color)

Dimensions/Weight: 410 x 462 x 401 mm (WxDxH) / 21.4kg

The Brother Workhorse MFC-L8395CDW (Brother MFC-L8390CDW in Europe) is a feature-packed four-in-one aimed at a busy home office or small workgroup, though it can be expanded to serve a pretty large shared office. It’s an LED printer, which is to say that it uses an LED array to guide the toner particles onto the drums rather than a moving laser, but it still sits happily in our best laser printer category because in all other respects, the print technology is the same. 

We’ve tested many of the best small business printers, and being a business-oriented Workhorse model at the upper end of Brother’s product range means it has an impressive spec sheet. It prints quickly at 31ppm (pages per minute) and can automatically scan two-sided documents using its 50-sheet ADF (automatic document feeder). With its NFC reader, touchscreen display, front USB Host port and fax modem, this premium printer leaves nothing out. So, let’s find out if the performance measures up to expectations.  

During this review, we'll use the American name Brother MFC-L8395CDW, but Europe's Brother MFC-L8390CDW is the same model.

Brother MFC-L8395CDW: Design and build

(Image credit: Brother)

The Brother MFC-L8395CDW looks similar to the more expensive and rather good Brother MFC-L8690CDW and has an almost identical specification. It’s the technology that’s different because the older model is a traditional class 1 laser product, while the new model is using electrophotographic LED. The first thing you notice is that it’s significantly smaller in every dimension. That’s mostly down to good resign and partly because LED printers use fewer moving parts to apply the toner. The form factor is the same and there’s still room for the same 250 sheets of Legal or A4 paper in the main tray and a further 50 in the multipurpose tray, while the out-tray holds 150 sheets. The design is expandable and you can add a lower paper tray that will take another 250 sheets. The ADF is also slightly smaller so the new model looks less top heavy, but also holds the same amount of paper — 50 sheets. 

The control panel jutting out at the front offers a color touchscreen and this too is slightly smaller than the laser model, but it’s still an easy-to-read 8.8cm. The multipurpose tray opens directly above the main paper tray, providing a useful shortcut for feeding headed letter paper or envelopes. Power, USB, Ethernet and fax modem cables all plug into the rear panel, while a USB Host port for walk-up printing from a thumb drive is located at the front. One visible difference from the laser model is that you now have an NFC logo, indicating where you can tap your smartphone or security card to call down a secure print job.  

Brother MFC-L8395CDW: Features & specifications

(Image credit: Brother)

As the uppermost model in Brother’s LED line-up, the MFC-L8395CDW has a high specification and all the features you can think of. It can auto-duplex print and auto-duplex scan, send and receive a fax, copy a stack of 50 pages using its ADF and print or scan wirelessly via the Brother Mobile Connect companion app. It has a 3.5-inch color touchscreen interface and an NFC reader for secure printing by specified cardholders, which could be useful in a shared office. Connections include Gigabit Ethernet, dual-band Wi-Fi and a USB Host port.

There’s plenty of room for paper, even without the optional lower paper tray, and a decent amount of toner comes in the box. The setup cartridges are good for 1,400 color pages and 3,000 mono, but super high yield carts are available that’ll give you up to 4,000 color pages and a whopping 11,000 mono. The print speed of 31ppm for simplex pages is pretty fast and it doesn’t slow down much for duplex printing, which is given as 12 sides per minute. Like many of the best laser printers, with this rapid print speed and a high capacity for paper and toner, the MFC-L8395CDW can handle a heavy workload. Brother suggests an average monthly duty cycle of 4,000 pages which should satisfy most SMBs (small to medium-sized business). In other words, this smaller and less expensive LED model matches the Brother MFC-L8690CDW laser printer for features and raises it by one NFC module, while only lagging one page-per-minute behind in terms of print speed. 

Brother MFC-L8395CDW: Setup & operation

(Image credit: Brother)

Setting up any Brother laser/LED printer involves extracting the four toner cartridges, removing the transport packaging and reinstalling them. This is easy enough to do and the two-page quick setup guide is there to help you. After loading some paper and turning it on, you can then turn to Brother’s Mobile Connect app to complete the setup. The printer’s own touchscreen interface is sensitive and the menu system is logical enough, but it’s still easier to use a smartphone to get connected to your Wi-Fi network. With its prompt print speed and two paper trays to choose from (main and multi-purpose), the Brother MFC-L8395CDW is an easy printer to operate. 

It's only a pity the operational cost is not lower. Replacement cartridges, even the super high-yield carts, do not bring the CPP (cost per page) down as low as most premium laser printers manage. It’s also worth considering the other replaceable items. You won’t need to buy four new imaging drums, a transfer belt or waste toner bottle any time soon, but they’re an expense you don’t have with inkjet printers. 

Brother MFC-L8395CDW: Performance

(Image credit: Brother)

The Brother MFC-L8395CDW put in a solid all-round performance without suffering any crashes or paper jams. Plain text documents are turned out in both simplex and duplex modes at the claimed prompt print speeds and the quality was consistently good. The characters appeared sharp and clearly legible down to the smallest point sizes. Mixed color documents print at the same speed, as with all laser printers, and showed a bright color palette. The image quality is fine, but not quite as bright as Brother’s equivalent laser printers. It’s the same story with photographs, which look detailed enough, but could be a little more vivid. 

The ADF proved itself to be a good one by drawing in a stack of test documents and copying both sides automatically. Duplicates made in this way, or by using the glass scanner bed, looked faithful to the original and only slightly softer in their detail. It copies quite quickly making this a suitable printer-cum-copier in a shared office. One thing it is not so good at is printing on heavy paper or card because the rollers turning it around tightly inside the machine tend to leave the documents curled when they emerge.

Brother MFC-L8395CDW: Final verdict

(Image credit: Brother)

This exceptionally well-equipped MFD (multifunction device) has enough functionality to meet the varied print demands of a shared office and has the toner capacity and print speed to handle a heavy workload. With room for 250 sheets of paper in the main tray and scope to add a second lower paper tray it’s clearly designed for a high monthly duty cycle. The 50-sheet automatic document feed is a cut above the average ADF thanks to its single-pass dual-side scanning feature, while an integrated NFC module is a real bonus for any business where the staff are issued with NFC-enabled ID cards. It might not be the best printer we’ve ever tested, but given the decent overall print quality of this LED all-in-one, the fairly high purchase price and running cost is justified.  

Looking for your next printer? We compared the best Brother printers 

• ^ Back to top

Adobe Fresco is a fun app for iPad and Microsoft Surface tablets. It’s all about simulating the real-world painting process - so expect to go to town on your digital canvas with the stylus as paintbrush. 

We’ve tried out a number of the best digital art and drawing software, and Adobe’s graphic design set has always impressed us. We liked Fresco last time we reviewed the painting app. But how does Adobe Fresco hold up in 2024? We wanted to find out.  

Adobe Fresco: Pricing & plans

• Free for a few brushes and some online storage, but it’s more than enough to get started. Subscriptions are available and Fresco is also bundled in with other Adobe  plans. 

You can download and install Adobe Fresco for free, which will allow you to work with about a hundred brushes, and be offered 2GB of online storage. You’ll need an Adobe account to take advantage of this - which is also free (save for a few minutes of your time).

This is the basic Fresco app, but you can choose to subscribe to it for around $10 a month to gain access to over 1,000 additional brushes, more online storage, additional shapes, and access to Adobe’s premium fonts. However, if you already subscribe to the Adobe Design Mobile Bundle, the Adobe Photoshop Single Plan, or the Adobe Creative Cloud All Apps plan, then you already have access to the full version of Fresco. Subscription prices vary depending on whether you’re an individual, in education, or a business, and whether you choose to pay on a month by month basis or opt for a yearly plan, but as a guide, an individual person can expect to pay between around $23 and $60 a month for the Photoshop Single Plan and the Creative Cloud All App respectively.

Whichever option you decide to go with, Fresco will broadly look the same, so let’s install it and take it for a spin.

• Pricing & plans: 4/5

Adobe Fresco: How it works

A traditional Adobe homepage, recognisable from anywhere, whether you’re on a computer or a portable device (Image credit: Adobe)

• A compact interface has tools that appear as you need them, with an interesting rotating feature.

If you’re familiar with other Adobe software, you’ll feel right at home in Fresco. From the home page’s style, to the layout of the various sidebars, you’re in no doubt you’re working with an Adobe product.

To the left are the various brushes available to you. Tap on one of them for that menu to expand, offering you further options. On the right is a series of parameters affecting your entire document. This is where you can access your layers (on by default), see various layer properties, enable options such as snapping, add comments, and even expose more layer-related tools. Top right of the interface are sharing options, and undo and redo buttons among others. It’s a very compact yet very full featured interface.  

Obviously, the bulk of the screen is devoted to your artwork. As it’s an app designed for a tablet, you can turn your device in any orientation and the toolbars will rotate in kind - but your artwork won’t. This might feel a little disconcerting at first, but it does allow you to work on your project from any angle. Plus, if that doesn’t suit you, all it takes is a simple two finger rotate gesture to bring your canvas into the ‘right’ orientation.

• Score: 4/5

Adobe Fresco: What it does

Changing the colour of your chosen brush is just a couple of taps away (Image credit: Adobe)

• Painting and drawing on a portable digital device is smooth and easy, coupled the advantage of digital convenience and capabilities.

From the sound of it, Fresco feels like a portable version of Adobe Photoshop, but the fact there is a version of Photoshop for mobile devices shows that it’s more than that. Its focus is on trying to replicate the real world experience of drawing and painting.  For that to work, Fresco offers a wealth of different brushes whose strokes can interact with others.

Take the watercolours for instance. They come with a ‘watercolour flow’ parameter, which is there to determine just how much bleed you’ll get when using them, ie, just how wet is the brush and how much will the new colour you’re using interact and mix with surrounding colours already on your canvas. This makes for a fun, versatile and highly interactive simulation, which is far removed from how too many digital image compositors work (not all, mind - Corel Painter is a notable example of software trying to replicate how paint behaves in the real world, only this time on a computer)

Combine this with layer work, the ability to use and customise so many different brushes, and compatibility with a stylus, allows you to get pretty close to real world painting - without the mess, or running out of paint. It’s an attempt to blend the physical with the virtual in what we felt to be a very enjoyable experience.

Add to that your ability to export your work as a PSD file, so you can work on it further in Photoshop on your computer, increasing your workflow possibilities immensely.

• Score: 4/5

Adobe Fresco: What’s new?

Add a touch of dynamism to your project with the new easy-to-use motion paths (Image credit: Adobe)

• Motion paths and rotation. It may not sound like much, but it’s well implemented and easy to use.

 On top of all this great art creation tool, Fresco also lets you animate portions of your artwork, and these capabilities have been improved in the latest version. You can now create motion paths. 

This in part due to an easy to control floating toolbar at the bottom of the screen, with various additional parameters available on the sidebar to the right, once that option is triggered. From there, you’ll also find a new feature to either rotate or sway your chosen layer. It’s all incredibly easy to use, adding additional dynamism to your project. 

Should I buy?

Layer Properties offer you numerous parameters to control the look of each of your projects’ layers (Image credit: Adobe)

Buy it if...

You enjoy creating digital artwork but would like to replicate the feel of the real painting experience. Fresco is a great app for working on the go, and linking to other Adobe apps across your devices.

Don't buy it if...

You're not an artist or painter, and you especially don't like free painting apps. 

• For more Adobe-style options, we've reviewed the best Adobe Lightroom alternatives and the best alternatives to Adobe Photoshop

Two-minute review

The Turtle Beach Recon Cloud Controller is a more expensive variant of the Turtle Beach Recon Controller that introduces a detachable phone mount and wireless support for Android devices and PC.

Despite these new additions, it maintains all the functionality of the original Turtle Beach Recon Controller when used as a wired controller for Xbox or PC. This makes it a solid wired option, though the cheap-feeling phone mount and input latency while playing in wireless mode make it difficult to recommend considering the high asking price.

Like the Turtle Beach Recon Controller, the Turtle Beach Recon Cloud Controller has a lot in common with the standard Xbox Wireless Controller. It has roughly the same shape, satisfying buttons and robust thumbsticks, a similar concave D-pad, and equally smooth triggers. Everything feels reassuringly familiar in the hands – but there are several key additions that really set the Turtle Beach Recon Cloud Controller apart.

(Image credit: Future)

For starters, there are the on-board audio controls that sit just above the Xbox Home button. With a headset plugged into the controller’s 3.5mm jack, these can be used to adjust the overall game volume, adjust chat volume, quickly mute the microphone, and alternate between a range of in-built equalizer (EQ) settings. There’s also a Pro Aim Focus Mode, which decreases the sensitivity of the right thumbstick for more careful aiming, and a Superhuman Hearing mode that boosts the sound of key in-game audio cues like enemy footsteps. Each of these settings is accompanied by a bright LED indicator and, while it all makes for quite a complex-looking set of controls, it’s surprisingly easy to get used to.

On the back of the controller, you’ll find two rear buttons that can be mapped to a range of inputs using either the controller itself or the compatible Turtle Beach Control Centre software. In addition to the 3.5mm jack, the bottom of the controller offers a switch to toggle between the wired and wireless modes and a small Bluetooth pairing button. A standard USB Type-C port is located on the top of the controller, above a screw hole for the detachable phone mount. This phone mount itself is very simple and features an extending clasp that can fit a wide range of models. Thanks to the presence of a small kickstand, it can also be used as a basic standalone phone stand when it’s not attached to the controller. Unfortunately, while the controller feels high-quality, the phone mount is mainly constructed from a thin and cheap plastic. 

Worse still, slotting in a phone makes the controller extremely top-heavy and therefore massively uncomfortable to use. I tested the Turtle Beach Recon Cloud Controller with a Samsung Galaxy S23 Plus, and found that the uneven weight quickly left both of my wrists feeling sore. This is a complete deal breaker for a mobile controller, as it renders the Turtle Beach Recon Cloud Controller almost impossible to use for an extended period of time while you’re out and about. By far the best way to play is to use the phone mount’s kickstand to position your phone on a desk – though at this point, you’re better off saving some cash and picking up the standard Xbox Wireless Controller (which is also readily compatible with Android) instead.

(Image credit: Dashiell Wood / Future)

Throughout my testing, there were occasional instances where the controller would feel sluggish as a result of input latency. None of the games I tested were ever unplayable, but it definitely detracted from my enjoyment of fast-paced mobile titles like Call of Duty: Warzone Mobile. This issue persists while using the controller with game-streaming services like Xbox Cloud Gaming and Amazon Luna, exacerbating any existing delay caused by your internet connection. Many of the best features of the Turtle Beach Recon Cloud Controller, like the onboard audio controls, are also completely unavailable in Bluetooth mode, which seems like a bizarre limitation.

It’s worth noting that the controller can also be used with a PC via Bluetooth, where it feels much snappier than on Android, but you still lose quite a bit of functionality. Strangely, there's no way to use the Turtle Beach Recon Cloud Controller wirelessly with an Xbox. All of this is a huge shame given the impressive 30-hour battery life, not to mention its superb performance as a wired controller. In wired mode, the controller is fast and responsive. The onboard audio controls are hugely useful if you often play online with friends and are a great match for games that require frequent communication like Tom Clancy’s Rainbow Six Extraction or Fortnite. 

As all of these features are already available on the more affordable Turtle Beach Recon Controller, there’s very little reason to consider the Turtle Beach Recon Cloud Controller instead.

(Image credit: Dashiell Wood / Future) Price and availability

•  $79.95 / £69.99
•  Available from Turtle Beach and other retailers in the US and UK
•  Not widely available in Australia

The Turtle Beach Recon Cloud Controller costs $79.95 / £69.99 and is available from Turtle Beach and other retailers such as Amazon. It costs $20 / £20 more than the Turtle Beach Recon Controller, which comes in at $59.95 / £49.99, so you’re paying a hefty premium for the removable phone clip and the addition of Android functionality. This price also puts the Turtle Beach Recon Cloud Controller at roughly $20 / £15 above the Xbox Wireless Controller. As the Xbox Wireless Controller works well with Android, those after a peripheral to use with their phones would be better off buying one and using the leftover cash to pick up a third-party phone stand.

Specs

(Image credit: Dashiell Wood / Future) Should I buy the Turtle Beach Recon Cloud Controller? Buy it if... Don't buy it if...  Also Consider

If you’re not keen on the Turtle Beach Recon Cloud Controller, these two lower-cost alternatives are definitely the way to go. 

(Image credit: Dashiell Wood / Future) How I tested the Turtle Beach Recon Cloud Controller

• Tested for over 11 hours
• Used with Xbox, PC, and Android
• Compared to hands-on experience with other controllers

I went hands-on with the Turtle Beach Recon Cloud Controller for more than 11 hours. During this time, I endeavored to spend a good amount of time testing the controller with an Xbox Series S console, a PC, and a compatible Android phone. 

On Xbox and PC, I tested a broad range of games including online titles such as Call of Duty: Modern Warfare 3 and Fortnite where I aimed to try out the on-board audio controls with a SteelSeries Tusq gaming headset. I also spent some time in a range of single-player games including Hatsune Miku: Project DIVA Mega Mix+ and Fallout 4.

In order to evaluate the mobile performance, I tested the controller with a Samsung Galaxy S23+, playing popular mobile titles such as Call of Duty: Warzone Mobile, Vampire Survivors, Diablo Immortal, and Genshin Impact. I also utilized a range of game streaming services, including Xbox Cloud Gaming, Amazon Luna, and Antstream Arcade in order to test the streaming performance.

Read more about how we test

First reviewed May 2024

For those who don’t know this 37-year old piece of software, Adobe Illustrator is a vector graphics editor and design program, and the fact it’s still around after all this time just shows how powerful, versatile, and ubiquitous it is. We explored version 27 around a year and a half ago - and we found it one of the best graphic design software we’ve tried. But a lot’s changed in the digital art world since then, so we put the 2024’s version 28 to the test.  

Adobe Illustrator: Pricing & plans

• If you know Adobe, you know you can only subscribe to its professional products, so the same goes for Illustrator.

As always with a professional-grade Adobe product, you can’t own it outright: you have to subscribe. To get your hands on Illustrator, you have a choice of either getting a standalone subscription or as part of the Creative Clouds All Apps package which includes over 20 different apps both for desktop and mobile use. Useful if you’re working across apps like Photoshop and InDesign, too.

On top of that, the prices vary depending on whether you choose to pay on a month by month basis, or get a yearly plan, which you’ll also pay monthly, albeit at a vastly reduced rate. Also, Adobe offers different rates for individuals, businesses and if you’re in education.

The best price individuals can have is the yearly one, which comes to $23 per month just for Illustrator, or $60 for the lot. Students and teachers can only get the full package, but it’s reduced to $20 per month. As for businesses, the cost is per license, and will set you back $38 for a single app, or $90 for all apps, per month. 

You do get a free trial with the ‘app apps’ package, but not for the individual plan.

• Pricing & plans: 3/5

Adobe Illustrator: What is it?

Apply your design onto an object, and see it warp as you move it around (Image credit: Adobe)

• An excellent, powerful and versatile piece of software to help you create detailed and intricate vector-based images.

Vectors are resolution independent, which means, unlike with Photoshop, they won’t get blurry or pixelated the bigger you upscale them. This makes Illustrator extremely valuable for design work, but also makes it somewhat harder to use than the usual image compositing program.

Illustrator is immensely versatile. It boasts one of the best logo makers for businesses. You can create icons, and graphics with it, design 3D artwork, build complex interwoven shapes, complex brush strokes, gradients, bezier curves, and more. The flexibility is there for you to create whatever you can imagine, without worrying about the size of your canvas.

Over the years, Illustrator has become an extremely powerful piece of software, with a huge number of intricate tools at your disposal, giving you immense freedom. The interface will feel very familiar if you're ever used another Adobe design product, with movable and customisable toolbars and properties inspectors. Just like Photoshop, it’s pretty much become the go-to standard for vector-based illustrations.

If you’re new to such creations, Illustrator can be a little daunting, but thankfully, you’ll find a series of integrated tutorials that will help you hit the ground running.

• Score: 4.5/5

Adobe Illustrator: What’s new?

The new measuring tool makes it easy to find out the dimensions of the objects you’re creating (Image credit: Adobe)

• A lot of small new features designed to improve your workflow.

Version 28, and its follow-up updates, boast improved enhancements, including faster live edits, panning and loading times, which, even compared to version 27 were noticeable, but as always, this will also greatly depend on your own computer’s configuration.

As a side note, it’s always good to point out that Adobe allows you to retain the previous version of your app when upgrading to a new full version number. This allows you to keep working with what you know, while acclimatizing yourself with what’s new. Most useful, especially when you’re in the middle of a project.

Some other useful improvements include the ability to measure and plot dimensions easily: choose between the distance, angle, and radius tools, then mouse over your design. The cursor is content aware, being able to deduce the curve or angle you’re after. Distance is the easiest: just click on one point then another. You also have the ability to select the measuring unit. Could be a great time saver.

There have also been improvements with how Illustrator deals with embedded files. It’s now easy to delete linked and embedded files from a project, and unembed multiple files in one go. You now have more control over object selection, text hyphenation is now off by default (thank you), and you can (finally) use an A5 preset in the Print section.

Of interest is the Retype option, which is a great way to help you figure out what font is being used in an image you found, without you having to do all the legwork yourself. Just go to the Type menu, select Retype, and Illustrator will find it for you (or as close to it as it can manage).

There’s an interesting addition which is still in beta called Mockup. With it, Illustrator can apply your creation onto an image of a real-life object. You're able to resize it and move it around, and your chosen object's angles and curves should affect how your design is seen.

• Score: 4/5

Adobe Illustrator: GenAI tools

Generative AI can create intricate and complex scenes in seconds (Image credit: Adobe)

• When used properly, Adobe Illustrator’s Generative AI can greatly speed up your workflow, creating designs in seconds, which you’re then free to edit and customize to turn them into something more unique.

Adobe Illustrator meet Artificial Intelligence. From one Ai to another. The way it works is incredibly simple - although bear in mind this tool is still in beta. You access it from the Window menu (look for ‘Text to Vector Graphic’). From there, you get to choose the Type you’re after, such as a subject, a scene, an icon or a pattern, whether or not to provide the algorithm with some artwork to draw from, how much detail you wish the output to have (from Minimal to Complex), and then there’s the text-based prompt; type in what you wish to see with as much detail as you can, and wait a few seconds for your instruction to be generated.

As always, you’re given a couple of extra variations in case the first choice wasn’t to your liking. If you’re not happy, just type in something else and see what the machine churns out next.

Everything created is fully editable, so you can fine tune and customize it until you’re fully satisfied with the results. It will certainly greatly speed up your work. Whether you think this type of ‘creation’ is a good or bad thing is beyond the scope of this review, but we were impressed with how well it worked, and how accurate the results can be, as long as you type in enough detail and your input can be easily understood by a machine.

The AI tools can also create a simple sharp logo, all based on your typed description  (Image credit: Adobe)

• AI tools: 4/5

Should I buy?

Adobe Illustrator is a very powerful and versatile vector drawing package. (Image credit: Adobe)

Buy it if...

You need to create professional vector images in a very powerful, and versatile software with an excellent track record behind it.

Don't buy it if...

You don't want another subscription package, plus you’re not too sure about all this AI being included in the latest releases.

• We've also tested out the best Adobe InDesign alternatives and the best alternatives to Adobe Photoshop

When you think of Adobe, you’re likely imagining high end professional creative apps, be they image compositing, video editing, desktop publishing, and more besides, but would ‘word processing’ spring to mind? And yet, there is one available, which integrates perfectly with what we consider the best desktop publishing software going: Adobe InCopy. 

With it, writers and editors are able to style text, track changes and make simple layout alterations, while at the same time, designers seamlessly work on the same document in InDesign. Sounds cool, right? We tried it out to see how it helps the design workflow. 

And you can see what we thought of the latest improvements to the main app in our Adobe InDesign review.  

Adobe InCopy: Pricing & plans

• The cheapest individual subscription in Adobe’s portfolio, and also comes free when you grab the full All Apps package.

As with any professional Adobe product, you only gain access to InCopy through a subscription. Your cheapest option is to get it on its own for almost $5 per month (that’s with an annual plan). It’s actually the cheapest subscription you can get with Adobe. You can choose to pay for the year upfront, but this is a rare occasion where you don’t get any discount for doing so, not even a cent. Alternatively, it’s $7.50 per month on no contract.

Access to Adobe Fonts, Portfolio, Creative Cloud Libraries, 100GB of online storage and 25 monthly generative credits (for AI creations) are included in the price.

Alternatively, you can opt for the Creative Cloud All Apps package which comes with the whole enchilada, including Photoshop, Illustrator and InDesign, for $60 per month on an annual plan. As with the single app above, prices fluctuate depending if you pay on a month by month basis, or for a yearly plan. In addition to that, students and teachers get a hefty discount for the full package ($20 a month), and there are specific deals for businesses and academic institutes.

• Pricing & plans: 4/5

Adobe InCopy: How it works

InCopy’s Galley strips the written word of all style (aside from Page Breaks), helping you focus on the work at hand (Image credit: Adobe)

• The concept of being able to work on a document and have it updated in the InDesign project is a very attractive one. But it’s not instantaneous, and was sadly prone to crashing when we tested it.

InCopy was created to speed up the process of getting a design project done and dusted. Usually a writer would submit their copy to the designer who then turns it into an article/poster/book etc, which then gets sent back to the writer, the editor, both, or more, for review and changes, which the designer then has to integrate back into their version in InDesign. And this cycle repeats until everyone involved is happy with the results.

There’s a lot of redundant work involved, with the potential of one revision being lost or mislaid along the flow of information. InCopy’s aim is to streamline all of this, making the whole concept much more of a collaboration tool, which allows writers and designers to work on the same document - although not at the same time: only one user can alter the text at any one time.

You can see any changes in InDesign that were made in InCopy, once you’ve clicked on ‘Update Content’ (Image credit: Adobe)

A designer can submit a text box to an InCopy file, for its content to be reviewed or altered, or a writer can produce an InCopy document which will then be incorporated into a designer’s InDesign file. However you prefer to work, the link between the two documents will be made, enabling anyone who has access to either of them, to make changes.

The process isn’t automatic: making some changes in InCopy will not make them appear in InDesign, for instance. Instead you need to click on ‘update content’ from the contextual menu. Also, while someone’s altering the content, everyone else is locked out of it. The person making the changes has to manually ‘check in’ in order to release the document, allowing others to make their own modifications.

It’s not as seamless as it could be, but it works well… until it doesn’t. Although we could easily make changes in InCopy, and update our version in InDesign as advertised, our version of InCopy (19.3), crashed every time we tried to update the content after someone had made changes in InDesign, which forced us to either use it as a one-way system, or check the changes once we relaunched the app, which was far from ideal.

• Score: 3/5

Adobe InCopy: Interface

Story takes Galley one step further by removing all page breaks - stripping even that from your page as it could be a potential distraction (Image credit: Adobe)

• An easy interface to get to grips with, offering you just the tools you need to limit distractions.

As you’d suspect, the InCopy interface looks like a vastly simplified version of InDesign, paring down the tools to solely what you need for writing. The toolbar at the top contains all the basic word processing options, such as alignment, font, size, style, etc.

The sidebar to the left is where you’ll find some search and navigation tools, as well as a comments option, so you can easily communicate with others working on the same document. Those notes can be seen on the page itself, or in a floating window which can be accessed in InDesign. The same applies for being able to track changes, although this isn’t switched on by default.

The document’s content can be viewed in three different ways: ‘Galley’ strips the text of its style, which is displayed in a sidebar to the left for each line. The ‘design’ visual left in the body of the text are the page breaks. ‘Story’ is virtually identical to ‘Galley’, except even the page breaks are removed, letting you focus on what needs to be written or altered. 

Want to see what your text will look like in InDesign (as long as you have the same fonts as your designer’s)? Then Layout is the option for you (Image credit: Adobe)

Finally, there’s ‘Layout’ which shows you your document’s style as it would appear in InDesign, although again, only the text is shown. If the designer has laced the page with images in InDesign or instance, those will not be seen in InCopy. In addition, this assumes the writer has the same fonts installed on their machine as the designer has on theirs, which is why it’s important to make sure all those potential hiccups are sorted out ahead of time. It’s also possible to import styles, thereby limiting any additional work between computers.

Overall, when it works, InCopy does what it sets out to do: streamline the document creation process between the writer, editor and designer. Such a shame our copy kept crashing when trying to update the document’s content.

• Interface: 4/5

Should I buy?

InCopy allows you to leave notes throughout your document, and Tracking Changes is also available (but it’s not on by default) (Image credit: Adobe)

Buy it if...

You or your designer use InDesign to create projects, and need a way to communicate more seamlessly when making changes.

Don't buy it if...

You don’t need to work with a designer as you do it all yourself, or you don’t create your projects in InDesign.

Branching out in page design? We checked out the best Adobe InDesign alternatives

• ^ Back to top

If you’re a page layout designer, magazine-maker, or print artist, you’ll be very familiar with Adobe InDesign - a page layout tool that stole the best DTP software crown from QuarkXpress many decades ago, and never looked back. Since then, it’s become an industry-standard for digital design, and Adobe has maintained a steady stream of updates. 

We were impressed with InDesign when we last reviewed the software - and we wanted to know how the DTP app compares in 2024. 

Adobe InDesign: Pricing & plans

• As with any other Adobe product, you can only rent it, but you do have a few options on how to do so.

Adobe rents its software out to customers, so rather than paying a one-off high price, you pay a smaller amount every month. The main advantage of this concept is that you get all future updates, large or small, completely free. The downside obviously is that you have to keep on paying the piper, and the moment you stop, you lose access to the software.

There are various options open to you to get your hands on InDesign. One of these is simply paying to use that app on its own, which would cost you around $23 per month (through a yearly plan); paying month to month is considerably more expensive at $34.50.

Alternatively, you can opt for the full ‘Creative Cloud All Apps’ package, which includes InDesign along with over 20 other software packages such as Photoshop, Illustrator, and many more. This will set you back $60 a month (on a yearly plan) or $90 on a month by month basis.

In addition to that, teachers and students get a discount - they can only get the full package, but it’s greatly reduced to $20 for the yearly plan. Schools, universities and businesses get different rates.

• Pricing & plans: 3/5

Adobe InDesign: What’s It All About?

Adobe InDesign is a powerful and versatile multi-platform desktop publishing application (Image credit: Adobe)

• A powerful, highly versatile piece of software, that allows you to design pretty much anything, from the simplest of leaflets, to intricate magazines, and more.

InDesign is a desktop publishing powerhouse. You could use it to design something as simple as a business card, to a detailed magazine containing hundreds of pages, and anything in between. It’s incredibly versatile, and if you’re used to any other software from Adobe, you’ll understand most of the interface straight away. You have a toolbar down the left-hand side, properties panels on the right, and your canvas taking up most of the screen real-estate in the middle. The interface is highly customizable, allowing you to detach panels from one place, and reattach them elsewhere, move them around, remove the ones you don’t need, have some as floating windows, until you’ve created a workplace that suits your needs exactly.

InDesign was created to work seamlessly with other Adobe products such as Photoshop, for instance. This means you can insert a PSD document in InDesign, go back to Photoshop to make alterations, and those changes will appear in your InDesign project after a few clicks. It’s also integrated with InCopy allowing the writer to get on with writing, while the designer works on the pages’ layout. You can see what we thought of this companion app in our Adobe InCopy review.

You can get to grips very quickly with the various tools on offer, and design simple to complex projects relatively easily. On top of that, Adobe offers numerous tutorials, either directly within the interface itself, or via their Creative Cloud app.

• Score: 4.5

Adobe InDesign: What’s New?

One of the new features is ‘Style Packs’ which allow you to create and share template styles which you can apply to any text box in seconds (Image credit: Adobe)

• A plethora of small improvements which are all very welcome to make this powerful DTP program more versatile, flexible, and accurate.

The last few updates have brought a lot of interesting new features, and we thought we’d highlight those that got our attention…

We found a lot to like, especially when it comes to customisation possibilities. You have Style Packs for one. Go to Window > Styles > Style Pack and choose a pre-saved collection which you can apply to your selected text boxes, with headers, styles, fonts, sizes, etc, changed instantly. Even better, you get to create your own packs which you can then export and share with other members of your team, or take with you when working on another machine.

Add to that the ability to import and export user settings is now a possibility, meaning that if you’ve configured your preferences just the way you like them on your machine, you’ll be able to replicate that on any other computer you’ll work on. That’s a huge plus for wandering designers.

Speaking of being on the go, it’s now possible to access and edit your files via InDesign Cloud Documents, which also lets you share these projects and collaborate with others easily.

If you need to share your work in progress, but there’s a few pages that aren’t yet ready to be seen, you now have the option of hiding specific spreads: right-click on a thumbnail and choose ‘hide spread’. That way, all concealed pages are skipped when in Presentation Mode, or when exporting a document.

Working with Indic or MENA languages comes with its own set of challenges, and the latest version of InDesign has worked to greatly improve its rendering of those glyphs by bringing in Harfbuzz as the default shaping engine. From the examples we saw, the improvements are very noticeable.

There are other new additions, like adding Google analytics in a published document, automatically including specific suffixes to JPEG and PNG exports, and password protecting InDesign files. These are not big tentpole features, but they all contribute to making InDesign a more powerful, versatile and accurate DTP, which can only be good news.

• Score: 4.5/5

Adobe InDesign: AI tools

AI’s come to ID. It’s well integrated and incredibly easy to use… perhaps too easy… (Image credit: Adobe)

• AI is everywhere, and with generated images now accessible from within InDesign, who needs photographers?… but is that truly a good thing?

Version 19.4 of InDesign, released in April 2024, brings AI to the page layout tool. You can’t run away from it: AI is going to be everywhere. So what does ‘Text to Image’ bring to InDesign? As you might expect, it’s powered by Adobe Firefly. There’s one big caveat though: it only works with the English International and English North American versions of the software.

If you’re used to AI in other Adobe products, you’ll know what to expect: select an image placeholder to have a floating field appear. Type in a description, and Firefly will generate three variations for you to choose from.

Every time we try Firefly we find it gets better and better, giving us more accurate results without having to type in lengthy descriptions. It’s good in some ways, troubling for the industry in others. However to quickly create mockups without having to even leave InDesign, it’s fantastic. The interface is incredibly easy to use, you get to choose between photorealistic or a more artsy output, as well as the image’s aspect ratio, and the various generated images and their variations are preserved in a list for you, so you can choose to use them elsewhere in your project should you want to. We’ll just leave the controversial debate surrounding AI in general for another day.

• AI tools: 3/5

Should I buy?

Need to share your draft but some pages really aren’t ready to be viewed? No problem: you can now hide them when presenting or exporting the document (Image credit: Adobe)

Buy it if...

You need a powerful, versatile and flexible DTP to design anything from a simple leaflet to a full imagazine.

Don't buy it if...

The options are above and beyond what you’re after - maybe a high-end word processor would be better suited to your needs, and you’re not a fan of renting the software you use.

For more design tools, we tested the best Adobe InDesign alternatives

• ^ Back to top

Formlabs has earned a reputation as the go-to machine for businesses needing a cost-effective and reliable 3D printer for a wide array of applications, from prototyping to medical and mechanical uses. 

The vast selection of specialist materials and a high-quality ecosystem that includes wash and cure machines as well as a finishing station make this one of the most complete and user-friendly options on the market. Form 3+ and Form 4 occupy a niche with few direct competitors; many professional-level machines cost tens of thousands of dollars, while the best 3D printers at cheaper end of the market is great for hobbies but often lacks the consistency and reliability for heavy professional use.

First and foremost, Form 4, with the PreForm software and dashboard, makes preparing and uploading work easy, whether it's a new iteration of a prototype or a small product production run. The flexibility of the range of materials allows you to go from quick printing with general-purpose V5 materials to silicone, elastic, and biocompatible materials, providing a solution for almost any intended end-use.

In this review, we've focused on the standard and most affordable V5 materials to see what this printer is capable of, and from the outset, the Form 4 impresses with some of the speediest, most accurate, and detailed prints we've seen from any 3D printer yet.

Formlabs Form 4: Design

(Image credit: Alastair Jennings)

It's worth noting from the outset that while the Form 4 hints at the Formlabs design of previous printers, it is a completely different machine with a host of new features and technology. The overall design still features the flip-up orange protective lid and a build platform on the Z-axis with a quick release, very similar to the Form 3+. At the back, there is a slot for the resin cartridge. These cartridges look smaller but still contain a litre of material but in a more compact design than those seen with the Form 3+. 

These resin cartridges function in the same way once dropped into the machine with a rubber bung at the bottom that is squeezed by the machine to release the resin. This time, however, the resin cartridges’ contents can be easily seen through a transparent window in the machine—a small design touch that can make a big difference in the workplace. The resin tank has also been redesigned with an improved mixer that clicks into place.

(Image credit: Alastair Jennings)

Like Form 3+, the front of the machine has a large touchscreen interface that enables users to adjust settings, run maintenance procedures, and re-run past prints, among other tasks.

The biggest design difference for the Form 4 is the switch from Low Force Stereolithography (LFS) used by Form 3+ to Masked SLA (MSLA) technology. This new method leverages a custom LCD and LED-based backlight to cure entire layers of resin at once, significantly improving both speed and accuracy.

Formlabs Form 4: Features

(Image credit: Alastair Jennings)

Formlabs has developed the technology used in the latest model of the Form printer to meet technological advancements. As such, the machine has moved away from Low Force Stereolithography (LFS)—a technology that previously gave the company's machines an edge in accuracy. However, that accuracy can now be matched by the latest LCDs, and the Form 4 introduces a new Low-Force Display (LFD) Print Engine that utilizes a custom LCD and LED backlight system. This system strikes a balance between high speed and high precision.

The integration of Masked Stereolithography (MSLA) technology in this new machine enables faster curing of entire resin layers rather than just pinpoint areas, significantly boosting print speeds compared to the method used by the Form 3+ SLA printer.

One of the major advances enabled by this new system is high dimensional accuracy, achieving a 50 µm XY resolution similar to the Form 3+. This ensures detailed and accurate prints with smooth surface finishes suitable for functional part production runs.

Although initially appearing similar to its predecessor’s resin tank, the new version incorporates several changes to aid printing speed. One of the main features is the release texture of the film, which helps to minimize adhesion forces, improve compatibility with various resins, and reduce print failures.

All resin printers can make handling resin messy; to facilitate workflow and ease of use, Form 4 includes smart sensors for automatic resin dispensing, which should lead to fewer failures.

Specs

Print Technology: Masked Stereolithography (MSLA) with Low Force Display (LFD) print engine
Build Area: 145 × 145 × 185 mm (5.7 × 5.7 × 7.3 in)
Minimum Layer Resolution: 25 µm
Maximum Layer Resolution: 300 µm
Dimensions: 405 × 375 × 530 mm (15.9 × 14.8 × 20.9 in)
Weight: 17.5 kg (38.6 lbs)
Bed: Removable Build Platform
Print Surface: Flexible Resin Tank with Release Texture
Software: Formlabs PreForm Software and Dashboard
Materials: Compatible with over 23 Formlabs resins, including new high-speed resins like Grey Resin V5, White Resin V5, Black Resin V5, and Clear Resin V5
Print Speed: Up to 4x faster than the Form 3+, capable of printing full build volumes in approximately 2 hours

The setup process for previous Form printers has been designed to be as straightforward as possible. Even the least experienced user should be able to get the machine up and running within 15 minutes, requiring only the printer, resin, computer, Wi-Fi, and installed software, with the rest managed by the machine.

When it comes to materials, Formlabs has invested heavily in developing a wide range of specialist materials for various uses and applications. Currently, this range for Form 4 covers over 23 different Formlabs resins, including new high-speed resins for diverse applications.

As this machine is designed for professional markets, reliability and longevity are key features. The Light Processing Unit (LPU) and other components are designed for long service life and high-volume use, with robust construction and smart sensors used to monitor and maintain print consistency, stopping printing if anything appears to be out of place to help save on failures and damage to the machine.

Finally, the change in technology enables print speeds that are up to five times faster than the previous iteration of the machine. This also boosts print efficiency, with the cost per print dropping by around a quoted 40%.

Formlabs Form 4: Performance

(Image credit: Alastair Jennings)

Unpacking the Formlabs Form 4 immediately showcases the significant upgrades this machine offers. Its size and weight are roughly equivalent to those of Form 3+, so it occupies a similar workspace area. The machine arrives fully assembled, requiring only a few minor setup steps before it's operational. First, you install the new-design resin tank, which, like the Form 3+, incorporates a mixer arm that also needs to be fitted and locked into place.

The resin tank clicks into place with ease, and the scoop fits back into the machine to catch the resin once the cartridge is installed and primed. The resin mixer design is more robust than that of the Form 3+ and features a locking mechanism. This new design is not only sturdier but also easier to clean between resin swaps. However, given that each tank costs over $100/£100, they are not considered disposable.

Formlabs has simplified the tank cleaning process; the mixer arm fits into the Form Wash easily, and the cleaning sheet option allows you to peel out most of the excess resin before it's wiped clean.

When it comes to loading the resin, a resin cartridge is dropped into a slot at the back of the machine, then the lid is flipped open to allow airflow to enable the release of resin. Once printing is complete or if the machine is to be left idle for some time, the lid is closed, and the resin is stored for future use.

Resin swapping follows a specific procedure: remove and clean the build platform, close and remove the resin cartridge, then swap out the resin tank. Install a clean resin tank, then the build platform and insert a new resin cartridge. This process is relatively quick and straightforward.

An advantageous feature for frequent resin changes, as in this test, is that tanks with resin residue can be covered and stored flat without a full clean. It is crucial to perform this procedure away from sunlight, as the resins will cure very quickly. Ideally, this should be done in an artificially lit room or with the curtains or blinds drawn.

(Image credit: Alastair Jennings)

PreForm software

Once Form 4 is primed and connected to the local area network, you can connect to the machine via the PreForm software and dashboard. This software allows you to prepare your models and upload them directly to the machine without needing to transfer them via USB or another method. Formlabs has designed this system to be streamlined and intuitive, focusing on professional environments without distractions from manufacturer offers or "models of the day."

An issue we encountered during testing was that many larger pre-supported models could not withstand the machine's high-speed operations. However, when this issue has been encountered with other high-speed machines we've tested, when a print falls from its supports, it often spells disaster for the resin tank and, in one instance, the LCD. However, Form 4, with its advanced monitoring, is well-prepared for such obstructions. The mixer arm detects when something has fallen into the resin, and the print process automatically pauses until the obstruction is removed. During our tests, it was generally possible to retrieve dropped pieces of hardened resin relatively easily, run a cleaning sheet, and restart printing. This occurred about five times and exclusively with pre-supported models. Switching to supports generated with PreForm achieved a 100% print success rate and after a short time of getting to know the printer the switch to using the PreForm supports at all times makes sense.

Formlabs advertises that Form 4 is up to five times faster than its predecessor for certain types of prints. Although a few prints approached the four to five-hour mark, the majority were completed within two hours—considerably faster than many other resin 3D printers. The quality of these prints is notably high, with a finish comparable to injection-molded designs.

In standard mode or print speed of 0.100, prints from Form 4 appeared clear and accurate, with superb surface quality. When switching to high-quality mode 0.050, print times naturally extended. For instance, the 3DBenchy model in PreForm is estimated to take 1 hour and 14 minutes with support or 59 minutes without. In fine quality mode at 0.050, the print time extends to 2 hours or 1 hour and 39 minutes unsupported. For comparison, the Creality K1C can produce the same model in 55 minutes or 1 hour and 45 minutes with supports using standard settings.

Initially the print speeds might seem slightly slower than those from a COREXY FFF printer, however for small production runs, Form 4 dramatically reduces printing times. It can produce nine 3DBenchy models in 1 hour and 12 minutes with supports or 1 hour and 25 minutes without. Conversely, using the Creality K1C for the same task would take approximately 7 hours and 10 minutes or 15 hours and 47 minutes with supports—a significant difference in efficiency.

(Image credit: Alastair Jennings)

In a design studio where multiple iterations of a design are common, Form 4 enables fast processing of all designs simultaneously. Although the print platform may seem small, it generally suffices for most print jobs. For example, while the 3D Benchy model is relatively simple by today's standards, as the complexity and detail of the prints increase, the distinction between the quality and speed of an FFF printer and the Form 4 becomes more pronounced. Printing a detailed model like the Blue Young Dragon illustrates this well, showing that Form 4 finishes the print in 2 hours 53 minutes while the Creality K1C takes 9 hours and 45 minutes. It's not only the print speed but also the removal of the supports, on the resin model all supports were removed in a round a minute on the FFF print more like ten and some of the more delicate details around the claws were lost despite the high quality of the print.

The cleanup process of resin prints is a major consideration, and with Form 4, this aspect remains significant. The Wash and Cure machines, while optional, are nearly essential for achieving the best results and are among the best in their class. The second-generation Form Wash allows the use of either IPA or TPM as the washing agent, and we've chosen IPA for continuity and ease of air drying in our tests. The Cure machine then hardens the prints post-wash using 405 nm light and heat to evenly dry and cure the models. Although these machines are excellent, their cost is comparable to many other resin 3D printers on the market and then there's the cost of the IPA which to fill to a decent level is going to set you back a good £50/$50. For those looking to economise after investing in Form 4, there are less expensive wash and cure machines available.

(Image credit: Alastair Jennings)

Cleaning the prints

When it comes to finishing the prints Formlabs have streamlined the process of washing, curing, and removing supports making sure it's as straightforward as possible: print the model, remove the build platform from the printer, place it into the wash, and start the machine. After washing, use snips to detach the print from the build platform, remove the supports, and then place the print into the Cure machine. Once the curing is complete, any final touches can be applied to finish the print. The support structures are designed such that a quick rub between washing and curing usually results in a clean surface. For optimal results, it's best to ensure all residual supports are removed before curing.

Print quality and accuracy is the main reason you would levitate towards the Form 4 over cheaper resin printers and at no point does the machines print quality disappoint. Using standard settings and V5 materials, the surface finish is exceptionally smooth, with only minor visible layering on some contours. By increasing the quality settings in the PreForm software, these layer lines become nearly invisible, though the print times will be longer.

In terms of quality, the output from Form 4 is comparable to that of Form 3+, with differences only discernible at the micro-detail level. However, the enhanced user experience and additional features make the Form 4 a worthwhile upgrade from the Form 3+.

Beyond standard resin

In this test we've looked at the standard V5 resins, but it's worth highlighting that this is just the edge of what this machine has to offer. The resin materials that will work with this machine enable all sorts of uses, from functional parts, Ceramic, Biomedical and moulding with each of these materials fine tuned for their intended usage.

More on an enthusiast level it's also possible to use non Formlabs' resin which will prove to be a cheaper option for many. More details of this can be found on the formlabs website https://formlabs.com.

Formlabs Form 4: Final verdict

(Image credit: Alastair Jennings)

If you're in the market for a resin 3D printer that surpasses the print quality of all FFF 3D printers and offers a cost-effective professional solution, then Form 4 is among only a few that deliver such high standards in this price range. Right from the start, the machine impresses with its easy setup and intuitive workflow, which is straightforward enough for even those completely new to the technology to grasp.

While dealing with resin is typically a messy affair, Formlabs has made this process as manageable as possible with auto-feed and easy-to-dispense resin cartridges. The tanks are also easy to remove, safe to store, and use on a daily basis, with little to no fault.

For more sporadic use, where cleaning the machine or, more specifically, the tank is necessary, the process can be a bit more time-consuming. While the mixer arm can be easily cleaned in Form Wash, the tank requires a more manual approach. Despite the advanced design and the helpful cleaning sheet, it's more complex than some of its competitors.

Aside from cleaning, most other aspects of the workflow are straightforward, including swapping out resins. Maintaining cleanliness and methodical practices ensures smooth operation without issues. Form 4 stands out in two particular areas: its accuracy, quality, and reliability for intricate details and complex objects, which make it an ideal choice for jewellers and model makers, offering unmatched ease of consistency. Throughout testing, 8 litres of resin—clear, grey, and black—were used without a single issue, a stark contrast to some of the best, cheaper printers that often encounter failures.

The second area where Form 4 excels is in prototyping and small to medium production runs. Formlabs provided a test print file that demonstrated the machine's capability to produce small production runs of parts for their resin tank mixer, achieving quick and incredibly high-quality results. In our test we switched to printing a GoPro handlebar mount product, and successive runs produced fast and accurate prints without fault.

For those looking for one of the most reliable, high-quality, and least messy resin 3D printers on the market, the Form 4 has little competition at this price point.

Should You Buy the Formlabs Form 4?

The Formlabs Form 4 is ideal for professionals requiring high precision and reliability in industries such as prototyping, jewelry-making, modelling and small production runs. Its superior print quality, capable of handling intricate details and complex designs, makes it standout. The intuitive setup and workflow make it accessible, even for those new to 3D printing. Despite its higher upfront cost, its efficiency in managing resin and the minimal occurrence of print failures provide long-term value. Suitable for both frequent and occasional users, the Form 4 excels in rapid prototyping and small production runs, making it a top choice for businesses aiming for outstanding results without constant technical challenges.

Buy if... Don't buy if..

For more tech tools for crafting, we've tested the best laser engravers

The Creality K1C is the latest printer from Creality's fully enclosed K 3D printer line. Once again, the style of the machine reflects the rest of the line with a high-quality, rigid frame and a tinted transparent part-glass enclosure that keeps the inner chamber heated for specialist materials.

The K1C boosts the abilities of both the K1 and K1 Max with a few additional features over both machines. While the size and mechanical specifications of the K1 and K1C are essentially the same, some of the more advanced features, such as the AI camera, have filtered down from the larger machine.

Interestingly, Creality has completely overhauled the tool head with a 300° hotend that features a hardened steel nozzle tip designed to cope with specialist materials such as carbon fibre. This enhancement makes the machine far more appealing to those using 3D printers in the industry, reminiscent of the old Cel-Robox Dual and its specialist carbon heads a few years back.

While the K1C isn't a replacement for the K1, the price difference between the two is marginal, making it hard to see why anyone would now prefer the older K1 over this all-new and seemingly much more versatile new machine. The K1 and K1 Max impressed us two of the best 3D printers we've reviewed, so with the main mechanics of this new machine much the same, it all comes down to the integration of the new tool head and the AI camera to see if there's also a step-up in quality.

Creality K1C: Design

(Image credit: Alastair Jennings)

An initial look at the K1C, it's instantly apparent that this is closely related to the K1. The big difference here is that the K1C has been enhanced to handle carbon fibre filaments like PLA-CF, PA-CF, and PET-CF and features a hardened steel nozzle. Part of this new tool head design is Creality's development of what they call a "clog-free extruder kit" with a "Unicorn" tri-metal nozzle, which is a combination of copper, titanium, and steel that is more resistant to abrasive materials such as carbon fibre.

Part of the potential boost in reliability is due to the AI camera, which is now an integrated part of the K1C's design rather than an optional add-on, as with the K1. Further boosting performance is an upgraded cooling system with print head fans and an additional 18W fan in the build chamber to aid with cooling when needed.

(Image credit: Alastair Jennings)

As with the other K series printers, the machine utilizes a CoreXY design, which can be notoriously noisy due to the speed. A design change with the pulley gears means that these are now smaller, helping to increase the printer's precision. Staying with precision, a flexible PEI build plate is incorporated, and again, the machine uses a hands-free auto-leveling system. So far, in this series of printers, the quality of the auto bed levelling has been exceptional.

One of the most notable features of the design is the fully enclosed nature of the case. This has also seen a slight development over the K1 with a better handle, improved door hinge with magnetic closure, and an anti-shatter film added to the glass to improve safety.

Along with the other enhancements to the design, the touchscreen, while on the surface looking the same, has seen a few changes to accommodate the additional features of the AI camera and improved hot end.

Creality K1C: Features

(Image credit: Alastair Jennings)

A quick look at the features of the K1C reveals that the basics are much the same as the K1, with high-speed printing of up to 600mm/s, full use of the CoreXY motion system, and input shaping. However, the machine has had a few stability improvements, although it is a touch lighter at 12.4kg.

The big feature that is highlighted is the extended material compatibility. Although the nozzle and hotend temperature ranges remain the same as the older machine, the new nozzle and extruder mean that it can now cope with a range of specialist materials such as PLA-CF, PA-CF, and PET-CF, essentially any material with abrasive properties.

To cope with the new materials and more specialist options, such as nylon and ABS, the machine features a reworked cooling system. This now enables dynamically balanced fans to cool where and when needed, resulting in less stringing and warping.

Specs

Print Technology: Fused Deposition Modelling (FDM)
Build Area: 220 x 220 x 250 mm
Minimum Layer Resolution: 0.1 mm
Maximum Layer Resolution: 0.35 mm
Dimensions: 355 x 355 x 480 mm
Weight: 14 kg
Bed: Heated bed, up to 100°C
Print Surface: PEI flexible build plate
Software: Creality Print, Cura (5.0 and later), PrusaSlicer, OrcaSlicer
Materials: PLA, PETG, ABS, PA, ASA, PC, TPU, PLA-CF, PA-CF, PET-CF
Print Speed: Up to 600 mm/s

The new direct drive, clog-free extruder kit, and a unicorn tri-metal nozzle promise higher durability and performance. These have been enhanced to cope with high-temperature and abrasive filaments.

One of the features that appealed to me about the K1 Max or the upgrade kit for the K1 is the AI camera for real-time print monitoring, timelapse recording, and failure detection. This camera has been designed to fully integrate with the Creality Print software and, with the wireless connection, enables you to send and monitor prints to the machine remotely.

One of the standout features of the new series is the enhanced touchscreen interface, which is well thought out across the range of printers and enables you to make real-time adjustments and monitor print times if needed. As interfaces go, it's both intuitive and easy to navigate.

When it comes to the print area, the volume of the K1C remains the same as the K1 at 220x220x250mm with a PEI flexible build plate that supports input shaping.

A nice touch with the K1C is the option for a side-mounted spool holder, which gives you a few more options regarding the machine's positioning.

As a fully enclosed printer, the machine comes almost ready to go out of the box, only taking a few minutes before you can power it on and start printing. The build quality of the full metal frame, glass door, and acrylic sides all add to the feeling of quality that ups the level even when compared to the K1 and K1 Max machines.

Creality K1C: Performance

(Image credit: Alastair Jennings)

The print quality from both the K1 and K1 Max was on par, with the two machines scoring decently at 26.5. You can see the full performance in our Creality K1 review and Creality K1 Max review. 

In the tests, the K1C looks to follow suit with a slight improvement in some areas. Starting with the real-world tests, the quality of the prints is exceptional, considering the speed at which the machine can produce a print. All models were produced flawlessly through three different material choices: PLA, PETG, and finally, Carbon Fill.

Looking closely at the PLA prints, the overall finish was good, with the new cooling system seeming to minimize stringing effectively. When using PLA, the top of the machine and doors are left open to aid with cooling. Switching to PETG, the filament enabled finer detail and a superb surface finish, although with both filaments, while the dimensional accuracy is good, the benchmark test showed some variation. 

(Image credit: Alastair Jennings)

While the machine's performance is solid and would have stood out if launched alongside the other two, there are now machines like the Qidi Tech Q1 Pro 3D, which have slightly better overall print quality but lag in machine build quality and features.

However, this machine's main focus has to be carbon filaments, which are notoriously difficult to work with and can easily damage a standard machine. Here, the K1C handles the specialist materials with ease, producing excellent prints that are incredibly durable and well-finished. Carbon filament is not for generic modelling and is more suited for workable prototypes, for which this machine excels.

Creality K1C: Print quality

Dimensional accuracy - score of 5 

Target 25 = X: 24.94mm / 0.06mm Error | Y: 24.97mm / 0.03mm Error 
Target 20 = X: 19.96mm / 0.04mm Error | Y: 19.98mm / 0.02mm Error 
Target 15 = X: 14.99mm / 0.01mm Error | Y: 15mm / 0mm Error 
Target 10 = X: 9.93mm / 0.07mm Error | Y: 10mm / 0mm Error 
Target 5 = X: 4.92mm / 0.08mm Error | Y: 5.04mm / 0.04mm Error 

X Error Average = 0.052

Y Error Average = 0.018

X&Y Error Average = 0.035

Fine Flow Control - score of 2.5 

Fine Negative Features - score of 5

Overhangs - score of 4 

Bridging - score of 5 

XY resonance - score of 2.5

Z-axis alignment - score of 2.5

Adding up the totals gives a final score of 26.5 out of 30.

Creality K1C: Final verdict

(Image credit: Alastair Jennings)

Currently, the K Series of Creality 3D printers sets a comfortable benchmark for build quality. The machines look great, and the company has worked hard to elevate its offerings from run-of-the-mill 3D printers used by enthusiasts to machines that have a far wider appeal.

Compared to the Ender-3 series, which really brought the company to the forefront, the K series is far more refined and professional, breaking away completely from the DIY form that many of these printers originated from. The CoreXY design, combined with their speed and Klipper firmware, has boosted speed and quality, and the K1C is currently one of the most refined printers out there.

Looking at the benchmark scores, the printer performs well, putting in one of the highest scores of any FFF printer we've looked at. However, when it comes to print quality, there are now some very serious competitors. While the likes of QIDI and AnkerMake M5C might just edge ahead with print quality, neither comes close when it comes to the complete package.

The software for the QIDI is good but not as integrated as that of Creality, and the build quality needs to catch up. Meanwhile, the AnkerMake M5C produces outstanding prints but is still an open system and slower overall. The Creality K1C has it all—for education enthusiasts and professionals, this is one interesting printer. The only downside at present is that it still lacks any multi-material support from Creality, although that's likely to come.

Should You Buy the Creality K1C?

We've also tested out the best laser engravers

The Anycubic Photon Mono M5s Pro is one of the highest-resolution resin printers available, with a 14k screen enabling a resolution of 13,312 x 5,120px over the 10.1-inch screen. This resolution should translate to incredible quality prints that will leave the competition in its wake. 

The overall design is very AnyCubic, as the company often opts for pure functionality over design aesthetics. Indeed, the machine itself reflects the Mono machines that have come before, but inside, the technology has taken a huge step forward. The high-resolution screen is the big hitter when it comes to features, but there are also the heater and air purification system and 105mm/h print speed. While the machine itself might not reflect the best 3D printer technology it contains, it is a machine of real interest and potential for several reasons.

The first is the cover, an essential part of the resin printer. While it's nothing outwardly wrong, most other manufacturers adopt a flip-up design that is much more user-friendly.

The heat and cleaner are also great additions that significantly improve the quality of the prints. However, their integration into the design isn't as refined, especially compared to direct competition like the Uniformation GKTwo and Creality HALOT-MAGE PRO. Still, when it comes to print quality, it's hard to argue with the capabilities of the 14k screen and the prints it enables you to create.

Anycubic Photon Mono M5s: Design

(Image credit: Alastair Jennings)

AnyCubic is known for making outstanding-quality machines that are functional, reliable, and capable of producing high-quality prints. This reputation holds for both its resin and FFF printers. However, while most other printer manufacturers have innovated with their designs, AnyCubic has remained reserved, sticking to what's familiar and maintaining its loyal user base.

The Anycubic Photon Mono M5s Pro is disappointingly similar to previous mono machines, with some small design tweaks, but ultimately, it's an ultra-functional machine that's slightly uninspired in design. The bright yellow UV protective cover remains a lift-off rather than a flip-up like most modern machines. While some people will appreciate the ability to remove the lid completely, these days, that shouldn't be necessary, and for accessibility and ease, a flip lid is much easier.

The resin tray is once again bolted down rather than a quick release. While this is still the most common approach, it could be more convenient when it comes to cleaning. This resin tank is also manually filled; there's no issue there, but with plenty of autofill options available, it seems a shame that something has yet to be innovated in this area, especially considering the cost of resin.

That said, the machine has plenty to get excited about. Underneath that resin tank is the ultra-high-resolution 14k screen, making it the highest-resolution printer we have examined. While the machine's aesthetics might not excite, the technology does.

A significant advancement for this machine is the integration of the heater and cleaner, which ensures the resin is kept in ideal conditions and helps reduce blemishes and other issues. Then, there's a series of advanced print monitoring with smart detection features. This style of monitoring is relatively new to resin printers, so its inclusion here is great.

Like most resin machines, we also have the touchscreen interface, which is very AnyCubic, simple, yet perfectly functional.

Anycubic Photon Mono M5s: Features

(Image credit: Alastair Jennings)

The AnyCubic Photon Mono M5s Pro promises exceptional detail and precision with its industry-leading 10.1-inch monochrome LCD. It delivers a 14K resolution and an XY resolution of 16.8*24.8μm, which is comparable to the thickness of a hair. AnyCubic has combined this high resolution with 85% light uniformity to ensure fine detail and sharp edges.

Innovatively designed, it incorporates an air heater and purifier module, maintaining a consistent air temperature of up to 40℃ to keep the resin above 20℃ for optimal printing in colder conditions. It also includes a high-quality activated carbon component to absorb resin odours, thus creating a more pleasant printing environment.

The printer's high-speed capabilities, with an average print speed of 105mm/h, are supported by its third-generation high-speed ACF film. This film reduces peeling force, lowers the peeling height, and increases lifting speed, thereby enhancing the printer's performance and reliability.

Specs

Print Technology: LCD-based UV Photocuring
Build Area: 200 x 223.78 x 126.38 mm
Minimum Layer Resolution: 10 microns
Maximum Layer Resolution: 50 microns
Dimensions: 460 x 270 x 290 mm (HWD)
Weight: 9.4 kg
Bed: Laser engraving aluminium alloy
Print Surface: Unibody design with scale lines
Software: Anycubic Photon workshop
Materials: 405nm UV resin
Print Speed: Up to 105mm/h

A standout feature of the Photon Mono M5s Pro is its leveling-free design, which, through floating platform technology and internal sensors, adjusts to ensure consistent printing quality. Furthermore, the printer is equipped with smart detection systems that prevent screen breakage by identifying resin residue and adjusting the peeling height according to the model's shape, thus improving the success rate and speed of printing.

Completing the feature set is the printer's compatibility with the Anycubic App. This app facilitates one-touch printing from a wide selection of pre-sliced models and enables efficient print management and troubleshooting. This app integration represents a significant advancement in making 3D printing more accessible and user-friendly.

With these advanced features, the AnyCubic Photon Mono M5s Pro is well-suited for both professional and hobbyist users who demand high-quality, detailed prints, and a reliable, user-friendly printing experience.

Anycubic Photon Mono M5s: Performance

(Image credit: Alastair Jennings)

As with all resin printers, the print quality depends on the conditions and the resin used. For this test, the tank was filled with high-speed resin to put the printer to the test in terms of print quality and speed. I have used this resin in the past and am not a fan.

While the resin prints fast and is high quality, it is extremely tough and brittle from the outset. This means that you need to be extremely careful with how the supports are applied to the models using the Anycubic Photon Software. Even with the models that Anycubic supplies as an example of the quality, the printer suffers from the overapplication of supports and the impossibility of support removal.

However, swapping the resin for one of the company's other resins, such as their well-priced standard resin, results in slower but still fast prints, and the results are far easier to extract from the support system.

Overall, the quality of the prints is fantastic, challenging far more expensive printers in terms of the overall finish.

(Image credit: Alastair Jennings)

After washing and removing the support trees and curing in the superb Anycubic Wash & Cure Max Machine, the final prints are of extremely high quality.

Regarding machine maintenance, the main point is to be careful with the High-Speed Resin. Updates to the Anycubic software have improved the application of the support tree. Still, it's crucial to experiment fully with the tree application before using and adjusting every model. This material is good but very brittle; with all these issues, the flip side is that the material does what it is designed to do and enables you to print very high-quality prints extremely quickly and with great detail.

Ultimately, this resin printer's print quality, with its high 14k resolution, is outstanding. Still, as always, to achieve the best results, you will need to do some legwork when finishing the models, especially being careful with the high-speed resin.

Anycubic Photon Mono M5s: Final verdict

(Image credit: Alastair Jennings)

This is an outstanding-quality resin 3D printer, only held back by its machine design rather than the quality of the prints it produces. The design is tried and tested, and while some aesthetic tweaks have been made compared to past models, the actual usability could be better.

For example, the protective lid rests on top of the base and can be lifted completely clear. Some might prefer this design in a workshop or studio, while the more common flip-up design is much neater and more suitable for a busy creative environment.

There's the resin tank, again using the same foundational design that Anycubic has always employed. Bolts hold it securely to the base. This works but feels a bit dated, as other machines offer slick quick-release mechanisms.

The addition of the heater and filter system is superb, and it's great to see. Still, with its power supply and slightly makeshift integration and attachment design, it feels like a must-have afterthought rather than a smoothly integrated part of the system.

Putting these points aside, they are minor and shouldn't overshadow the fact that this is one of the best resin 3D printers out there. The Pro model has built on the quality of the Anycubic Photon Mono M5s with enhanced resolution and features. Used carefully, with the support trees correctly set within the Anycubic Photon Workshop software at that 14k resolution, this machine can print models of a quality that you would expect from some of the top-tier printers.

Should you buy the Anycubic Photon Mono M5s Pro?

Buy the Anycubic Photon Mono M5s Pro if you prioritize exceptional print quality and high-resolution capabilities. Its 14k screen delivers intricate details, perfect for professionals or enthusiasts who demand precision. Tmachine'se's advanced features, like the heater and air purifier, enhance printing consistency and environmental quality.

However, don't buy it if you're looking for a modern design or if your budget is a primary concern. The traditional design might appeal to some, and its high-end features come with a price tag that may exceed the budget of casual users or those new to 3D printing.

Buy it if... Don't buy it if...

Want to engrave as well as print? We've tested out the best laser engravers

The Qidi Tech Q1 Pro 3D Printer is the first from the company that we've reviewed, so we're evaluating it with fresh eyes. We can only compare it against the best 3D printers we tested, not any previous releases from the company. Initial online impressions of the design, featuring a full enclosure and touch screen, are positive, and the specifications suggest a very promising machine.

When the box arrives and the machine is unwrapped, it looks quite nice and true to the marketing images. Unfortunately, the quality of the casing materials is not as high as the design initially suggests. A closer inspection reveals that the quality of the components and the construction of the actual mechanics are sound, and it's important to remember that this is a sub-$500 printer.

Considering the price and what you see, this is a COREXY machine with a heated inner chamber, Klipper firmware, and enough internal support to hold things together during high-speed printing. Initial impressions are, therefore, mixed: it's a great-looking machine with a not-so-great exterior material choice and amazing specifications, but can it pull all this together to produce a decent print?

Qidi Tech Q1 Pro 3D Printer: Design

(Image credit: Alastair Jennings)

From the outset, the design is appealing, even if the outer casing's materials feel a bit on the cheap side. The case allows for printing with more technical materials, or if you prefer to stick to standard PLA, you can simply remove the top and open the door.

On the front of the machine is a large LCD screen where you can select prints, adjust settings, calibrate, and connect to a local area network. The interface is straightforward, and the large screen is exceptionally well-designed and easy to use. Loading the first reel of filament is straightforward, and uploading prints is done through the QIDISlicer, which is based on the excellent PRUSASlicer and offers plenty of options.

(Image credit: Alastair Jennings)

The machine features some interesting design choices, such as the independent dual Z motors, which create a solid build platform necessary to handle the machine’s speed when running at full capacity. The chamber can be heated to 60ºC, accommodating various materials, and the design is fully enclosed when needed.

Inside, there’s a small box at the back of the machine that, when the machine starts working, reveals itself as the filament bin. This is where the excess filament is deposited to keep prints clean—a small feature that can make a significant difference.

The design is attractive but let down by the material choice, which feels somewhat flexible. However, as a functional product, the touch screen, large plexi door, removable lid, filament bin, and dual independent Z motors all feel extremely solid and built to last.

Qidi Tech Q1 Pro 3D Printer: Features

(Image credit: Alastair Jennings)

The Qidi Tech Q1 Pro is equipped with several features that, until the release of the Bambu printers, were typically found in mid to high-end models. QIDI states that it only takes ten minutes from the box to the first print, and with features such as full-auto calibration, this proved to be absolutely accurate, making it one of the most straightforward printers to get started with.

Through the plexi front door is the impressive inner chamber with a build volume of 245 x 245 x 240mm. Notably, the hotend above features a nozzle with a maximum temperature of 350°C, ideal for high-temperature filaments like PAHT-CF and PET-CF.

When printing these materials, a heated inner chamber creates an ideal printing environment, capable of reaching up to 60°C depending on the material settings. This feature reduces warping and improves layer bonding, which is particularly beneficial for warp-prone filaments such as ABS, PA, and PC.

The Q1 Pro’s design includes independent dual Z motors, providing higher precision and stability. Combined with its CoreXY structure, this should ensure high-speed, accurate, and stable printing, especially when paired with the Klipper firmware.

Specs

Print Technology: Fused Deposition Modeling (FDM)

Build Area: 245 x 245 x 240 mm

Minimum Layer Resolution: 50 microns

Maximum Layer Resolution: 400 microns

Dimensions: 480 x 380 x 480 mm

Weight: 18 kg

Bed: Heated, up to 100°C

Print Surface: Removable and flexible magnetic plate

Software: Qidi Print, compatible with Cura and Simplify3D

Materials: PLA, ABS, PETG, TPU, and other 1.75mm filaments

Print Speed: Up to 150 mm/s

The printer also features a tri-metal hot end, enabling it to handle a variety of filaments, including those with better mechanical properties. The printer is designed with speed and accuracy in mind. Like the initial setup, calibration is an ongoing feature with dual sensor auto bed levelling and an essential filament detection system, including filament runout and tangle detection, crucial for 1.75mm filament nearing the end of its usable life.

Inside the outer casing, the Qidi Tech Q1 Pro is built with a full metal frame structure, which is necessary due to the high speeds this machine can reach. Powering the processing is a powerful 64-bit processor and 32G-EMMC large memory, supporting high-speed Wi-Fi 6, allowing you to send your print files directly from QIDISlicer.

Additional handy features include a 1080P camera, which enables remote monitoring of prints and timelapses. Considering the price, this is a feature-packed printer that rivals many more expensive machines.

Qidi Tech Q1 Pro 3D Printer: Performance

(Image credit: Alastair Jennings)

Few machines can compete with the QIDI Q1 Pro in terms of absolute print quality. During testing, a variety of filaments were run through the system to evaluate the heated inner chamber, along with many standard prints using PLA. The results demonstrated the machine’s exceptional accuracy and speed.

Throughout weeks of testing, there were no failed prints, which is nearly unheard of, and upon inspecting the prints, the extrusion quality could have been better. As a CORE XY machine, it excels in speed, but it is unusual for a machine at this price point to be both accurate and capable of producing such clean results. The only other machine that compares in cleanliness is the AnkerMake M5C 3D printer, which uses refined yet older technology and has an open design, making it unsuitable for many uses.

(Image credit: Alastair Jennings)

Examining the models reveals that the quality shines through: detail is well-defined, support structures, with some tweaking, are easy to remove, and surface quality is excellent. The test prints all looked great, as evidenced in the images. Similarly, running the usual benchmarking tests produced outstanding results, confirming that the QIDI Q1 Pro is a top contender in its class, delivering both speed and precision in its prints.

Qidi Tech Q1 Pro 3D Printer: Print quality

Dimensional accuracy - score of 5 

Target 25 = X: 24.98mm / 0.02mm Error | Y: 24.96mm / 0.04mm Error 
Target 20 = X: 19.98mm / 0.02mm Error | Y: 19.94mm / 0.06mm Error 
Target 15 = X: 14.87mm / 0.13mm Error | Y: 14.94mm / 0.06mm Error 
Target 10 = X: 9.95mm / 0.05mm Error | Y: 9.94mm / 0.06mm Error 
Target 5 = X: 4.88mm / 0.12mm Error | Y: 4.90mm / 0.10mm Error 
X Error Average = 0.068
Y Error Average = 0.064
X&Y Error Average = 0.066

Fine Flow Control - score of 5 

Fine Negative Features - score of 5 

Overhangs - score of 4 

Bridging - score of 4

XY resonance - score of 2.5

Z-axis alignment - score of 2.5

Adding up the totals gives a final score of 28 out of 30.

Qidi Tech Q1 Pro 3D Printer: Final verdict

(Image credit: Alastair Jennings)

The Qidi Tech Q1 Pro is a 3D printer that stands out, especially considering its price. It offers features typically found in higher-end models, such as high-speed printing, precision, and robust features like active chamber heating and dual Z motors, making it a superb choice for small businesses and educational purposes.

While the external casing materials may feel less premium, the printer's overall build quality and functionality are impressive. The print quality is exceptional, with accurate and detailed outputs that are consistently great for small product runs and prototyping. For those seeking a reliable, feature-rich 3D printer without breaking the bank, the Q1 Pro is an excellent choice, effectively balancing performance and value.

Should You Buy the Qidi Tech Q1 Pro?

We also compared the best 3D modeling software

Cambridge Audio Melomania M100: Two-minute review

The Cambridge Audio Melomania M100 are what the fans were waiting for. Prior to their release, Cambridge Audio's excellent earbuds couldn't join the ranks of the best noise-cancelling earbuds for one simple reason: the UK audio specialist's true wireless buds sounded fantastic, but they didn't have the necessary antiphase noise-nixing tech onboard to offer active noise cancellation. And that is because Cambridge Audio prefers to focus on excellent audio quality (and long may that last by the way). 

But times have changed. While Melomania will never cease to mean 'crazy about music', the British company has conceded that the people are also crazy about active noise cancellation. And if Cambridge is going to offer ANC, it's going to do it right. Although you can't tweak its splendid noise cancelling profile any further than 'On', 'Off' or 'Transparency', when it's on, the ANC here is as effective at cancelling low-level noise as you could wish for, cocooning me in a bubble of near-silence and keeping the footsteps around my desk (plus my own tap-tap-tapping of the laptop keys upon which I bring you this review) barred from that bubble. 

The transparency profile is less useful, with a bit too much audible feedback and a near-constant quiet hiss, even in quiet environments, to be a wholly pleasant experience. But a less-than-perfect transparency mode is a minor shortfall I'm prepared to accept when the noise nixing is this good. 

Multi-point connectivity is baked in here, as is aptX Lossless and aptX Adaptive for higher-resolution audio (if you've got a decent, paid-for music streaming subscription and files up to 24bit/96kHz to serve them), and the battery life, at up to 10 hours from the buds and a total of 23 with ANC on, or 16 hours from the buds and 36 with ANC off, is exceptional. The build quality is also bang-on, with a far more ergonomic driver housing than the bullet-shaped Melomania 1 Plus. 

There's no device-agnostic spatial audio special side-sauce or fit tests and I'm not surprised. I can hear Cambridge Audio's engineers reaffirm the choice to offer "as few opportunities as possible to muck around with your music – we like a clean sound", as they did at the launch of the excellent CXN100 Network Player in January 2024. And you know what? I really don't mind, because the sound in these earbuds is expansive, detailed, nuanced, clean, neutral and immersive enough all by itself. That said, Cambridge will let you select one of six EQ presets, or create a custom one of your own – with a seven-point EQ parametric tab. 

Call handling is also very good, thanks to the Qualcomm's three mic cVc (or Clear Voice Capture) solution, designed to separate your voice from environmental noise, which works very well indeed. 

I should mention that the case is a little big – again, I'm OK with this more substantial box given the excellent stamina, sound quality and ANC. Also, they're perhaps $50 or £40 pricier than the direct competition. Are they worth it? It all comes down to whether you prioritise sound quality above all else in a true wireless design. For me, the Melomania M100 represent sound-per-pound value – but if you want fit tests, tailored otoacoustic hearing profiles and other whistles and bells, you won't want these. 

Cambridge Audio Melomania M100 review: Price and release date

The ergonomic earpieces are a hit (Image credit: Future)

• Released on March 27, 2024
• Priced at $219 / £169 / AU$299

The Cambridge Audio M100 aren't as cheap as the Melomania 1 Plus earbuds they succeed, which had a launch price of $139.95 / £119.95 / about AU$185 – although their price has dropped significantly since that.

At £169 (about $219 / AU$326) they're still considerably more affordable than AirPods Pro 2, which typical sell for $249 / £249 / AU$399. While you could argue that Apple sets a pretty high bar and most brands undercut that pricing, that's not necessarily true in 2024. Consider Bose's $299 / £299 / AU$449 Bose QuietComfort Ultra, Sennheiser's March 2024 $299 / £259 / AU$479 Sennheiser Momentum True Wireless 4 or Technics' EAH-AZ80, also at $299 / £259 / AU$499. See? For the level, Cambridge Audio has actually priced these earbuds competitively.

What you need to know is that while there's plenty of flagship talent here, they actually come in slightly under flagship money. The Melomania M100 are not as affordable as the excellent Nothing Ear (a), for example, but the Nothing buds are an entry-level proposition – a great proposition, but missing just one or two of the flagship features you'll find in their top-tier Nothing Ear counterparts. 

Cambridge Audio Melomania M100 review: Specs Cambridge Audio Melomania M100 review: Features

The case is a little large, but it's perfectly pocketable and honestly, I don't mind its dimensions one bit (Image credit: Future)

• Great active noise cancellation and app support
• Excellent battery life
• Use the 'Southwark' Audible Feedback profile

The fact that Cambridge Audio has included active noise-cancellation (ANC) plus a Transparency mode is big news, because it's a first for the UK audio outfit's Melomania lineup – but the even bigger news is, the noise nixing works really well. At my desk, I'm living in a bubble of near-silence akin to that afforded by the AirPods Pro 2, and that's not a statement I make lightly. 

You're also getting Bluetooth 5.3 with LE Audio, aptX Lossless for CD-like audio quality, Auracast (for when broadcast audio-sharing comes to our airports and waiting rooms), plus the more efficient LC3 codec. 

Call handling is a breeze using the Melomania M100's three mics per earpiece (kitted out with cVc echo-cancelling and noise suppression tech from Qualcomm) and the battery life here is very impressive, with a possible 52 hours from the buds and charging case combined – because you get 16 hours from the buds alone if you keep ANC turned off. For clarity, the AirPods Pro 2 last 'just' nine hours with ANC off (I know this because I tested it myself). 

Melomania Connect is the M100's capable (and newly updated) companion app, which opens the door to additional features such as the ability to customise the on-ear controls to your liking, six EQ presets plus a seven-band graphic equaliser so you can create your own, wearer detect to pause audio when you remove one, mono audio (if you've given one bud to a friend), a sleep mode (which disables all touch controls and voice prompts until you put them back in their case) a gaming mode to reduce latency when watching videos and my favorite, the chance to select what Cambridge calls 'Audible feedback'. This, it turns out, means the person talking to you in your headphones about pairing status, noise cancellation and so on. Scroll down to 'Southwark' in this tab and you hear none other than the actual Matt Berry (What We do in the Shadows; Toast of London; The IT Crowd). And that, truly, is an ace up Cambridge Audio's sleeve. If you don't believe me, just spend a few moments setting up multipoint.

There’s no special spatial audio processing (which doesn't surprise me given Cambridge Audio's thoughts on keeping music authentic and as the artist intended), but some users may miss the fit tests and even tailored profiles based on your hearing offered by the Denon PerL Pro and Nothing's new Ear (a), to name just two products that offer it – because you won't find these in the M100. 

• Features score: 4/5

Cambridge Audio Melomania M100 review: Sound quality

It's all about black with more black here, unless you get a limited edition set…  (Image credit: Future)

• Expansive, detailed presentation
• Sublime clarity across the frequencies 
• Just a shade off excellent for dynamic nuance

You can of course listen to lossy Spotify tracks using the Melomania M100, but Cambridge Audio's focus has long been sound quality and as such, you might want to treat these buds to some higher-resolution Apple Music, Qobuz or Tidal streams. Also when you do, there's so much to love. 

When streaming The Bangles' Eternal Flame, Susanna Hoffs' stunningly understated vocal is given a few inches more space to shine than I'm used to at this level, and backing vocals arrive in each ear with surprising texture and clarity through the lower mids. Travis Scott's FE!N is immersive as synths dart between each ear, proving that the M100 aren't afraid to drop low and get grimy either. 

Belle and Sebastian's She's Losing It is another sonic delight for neutrality and detail in each musical passage; you'll feel as if you learned a bit about this Glaswegian indie band's use of strings and additional voices after a session with the Melomania M100. 

Sam Smith's Unholy reveals a minor shortfall in terms of dynamic nuance though. The M100s still serve up a detailed and cohesive mix, but I'm missing an extra ounce of the spirited rise and fall that typifies the track. This is a song that grabs you from the get-go, with a full choral recital of the main theme followed by a moment of silence before the bass-riff drops. It's just not quite as ear-grabbing, zealous or petulant as I've heard prior to now. 

Again, it's a long way from an actual issue – and many listeners will prefer the expansive, integrated, detailed, thoughtful presentation of the Cambridge Audio Melomania M100. I adore listening to Melissa Etheridge's I Want to Come Over with these earbuds, since I can hear her particular method of approaching guitar strings in ballads and the beautiful, imperfect textures in her vocal at times, but if you tend to listen to  hip-hop and grime tracks on the commute, you may just yearn for a little extra oomph. 

• Sound quality score: 4.5/5

Cambridge Audio Melomania M100 review: Design

(Image credit: Future)

• Ergonomic, secure and comfortable earpieces
• On-ear controls work well
• Case is a little big

These are easily the most comfortable Melomania earbuds ever made. The buds slip easily into my shell-likes with none of the tiresome twist-and-lock screwing them in some earbuds require. At 6.65g per bud, they're not particularly light given the competition (Sony's LinkBuds S weigh just 4.8g, for example), but they're beautifully well-weighted and the design feels like it wants to hug your ear and stay put, which is always helpful.

OK, the case is on the large side, plastic, and other options look a little more premium for the price, but it is perfectly durable and pocketable. Unless you're lucky enough to bag a limited edition How High pair (which comes in a bright yellow and black color scheme – a nod to the music video for The Charlatans' hit How High, in which singer Tim Burgess wore a bright yellow jacket) the M100 is available in black with more black only, so if you wanted something in white or silver, you won't find it here. 

That's not to say I don't like the design; I do. The central touch-capacitive 'button' (you don't actually have to depress it) on the top plate of each driver housing is easy to find has a nice tactile edge to it and is a chic nod to Cambridge Audio's circle-within-a-circle logo. The controls also work very well indeed and each function can be toggled on or off if you won't use it. I like that I can have Matt Berry announcing the ANC profiles when I tap the left earbud, while play-and-pause is a single tap of the right, and the on-ear volume control is handled by a long press of either bud (left to decrease; right to increase) which is always the best solution I find – because perfecting three or four taps so that your earbuds actually understand and respond accordingly is a big ask. 

• Design score: 4.5/5

Cambridge Audio Melomania M100 review: Voice prompts

'Southwark' is the only English audible feedback you want (apologies to the other, perfectly lovely English voice prompt artist, but Matt Berry is unsuprassed)  (Image credit: Future)

• Select 'Southwark' and you get Matt Berry 
• No really, it's actually Matt Berry 

In case it hasn't been mentioned enough (and I feel it can never be overstated, so sub editor, please leave this in), by heading to the 'Audible feedback' tab in the app, scrolling all the way to the bottom and selecting the unassuming 'Southwark' option, the dulcet tones of Matt Berry will greet your ear. He'll serve up delectable vocal morsels such as "Device one, connected" or "Waiting to pair" depending on how you're using them, in addition to the standard "Noise cancelling", "Normal" or "Transparency" and if you're a fan of Matt Berry's sizeable oeuvre, it's priceless. It's almost like having Steven Toast at your beck and call. ("Hello Steven, can you hear me? It's Clem Fandango…")

• Voice prompts score: 6/5

Cambridge Audio Melomania M100 review: Value

• As feature-packed as any earbuds has any business being for the money
• A no-brainer for Tidal members
• Unbeatable for comfort and sound-quality at the level

For features, noise cancellation and sound quality, these are a compelling set of earbuds – but them and you will not be disappointed with the levels of detail in your music and the near-silence they'll add as a backdrop if you want it.

The AirPods Pro 2 will give you a little more dynamic zeal, and Denon's PerL Pro will offer hearing tests and tailored sonic profiles. That said, both rivals will charge you a little more for it. 

Cambridge Audio's focus here has been on detail, clarity and effective ANC. If those requirements are top of your list, these may well be the buds for you. 

• Value score: 4/5

Should I buy the Cambridge Audio Melomania M100? Buy them if... Don't buy them if... Cambridge Audio M100 review: Also consider How I tested the Cambridge Audio Melomania M100

• Tested for two weeks, listened against the Technics EAH-AZ80, AirPods Pro 2 and Bose QuietComfort Ultra Earbuds
• Used at work (in the office; walking through London; on a train) and at home
• Listened to Tidal, Apple Music Lossless, Qobuz tracks and Spotify on an iPhone 12 Pro, a Samsung Galaxy S22 and a MacBook Pro

It will come as no surprise to learn that the Cambridge Audio Melomania M100 became my musical companions for two weeks – after a thorough 48-hour run-in period. How else am I to test them? 

They accompanied me to work on weekdays walking (and on more than one occasion, running) to the station; boarding a train and on the London Underground; at the office. They also stayed in my ears during long walks on the UK's Jurassic Coast, in Dorset – a great way to test any wind-interference from mics during calls.

To better test the battery life and comfort levels of the Cambridge Audio Melomania M100, I wore them throughout the working day and into a yoga class in the evening – and they outlasted my working day by some distance. 

To test the audio quality across the frequencies, I listened to our reference playlist but also my own music (spanning everything from country to classical) on Apple Music, Qobuz and Tidal, but also to podcasts and albums on Spotify – and YouTube tutorials (mostly about silversmithing, if you're curious) from my MacBook Pro. 

I’ve been testing audio products for over five years now. As a dancer, aerialist and musical theater performer in another life, sound quality, fit and the user experience have always taken priority for me personally – but having heard how wonderful ANC can be when done well, I know what to look for. 

Read more on how we test earbuds at TechRadar

• First reviewed: May 2024

Google Pixel 8a: Two-minute review

Pixel 6a, Pixel 7a, and Pixel 8a (left to right) (Image credit: Philip Berne / Future)

The Pixel 8a is the best budget option for Android enthusiasts, and especially Google fans. It makes a case for itself against the pricier Pixel 8, and if you've been dying to try all of Google's coolest new Android and Gemini AI features, the Pixel 8a is the cheapest entry into this virtual world. You can find slightly better specs in a phone this cheap, but you can't find Google's innovative software and seven years of promised software updates.

I've been using the Pixel 8a with Gemini Advanced, Google’s premium AI and large language model, and it works just as well as my Pixel 8 Pro. I get the same cool AI wallpapers feature that I love. I even have Gemini baked into the Gmail app on this phone, so Google's AI can compose an email right in the proper text box. 

For the Pixel 8a’s price, there are Android phones to consider from Motorola and OnePlus, but Apple and Samsung don't make anything worth buying in the $500 / £500 / AU$800 range. The iPhone SE is cheaper, but I'd avoid that old phone since it's fairly out of date (home button?!).

For only $100 more you can have the Galaxy S23 FE with DeX (Image credit: Future / Philip Berne)

Samsung's Galaxy S23 FE is a bit more expensive, and it has tons of business and professional features, if you're going to be mixing work and personal life on your phone. It's also a bit overcomplicated, and it won't get the latest AI features like the Pixel 8a (probably) will. 

If history is any guide, the Pixel 8a will eventually get some compelling deals and this great price will drop even lower, but for $499 / £499 / AU$849, I think the Pixel 8a is worth what Google is charging. The Pixel 8 is only a little more expensive, which makes sense because it's only a little more great; it has better cameras, and marginally better battery life and charging, but that's it. 

The Pixel 8a performed well across the board in our tests, matching and occasionally beating the Pixel 8 on our metrics for processor speed, graphics performance, even display quality. If the Pixel 8a uses a cheaper display than the Pixel 8, I certainly couldn't tell.

It's much harder to recommend the Pixel 8 these days (Image credit: Future | Alex Walker-Todd)

That's great news because the Pixel 8a also gets the same seven years of Android updates that Google promised for the Pixel 8 and Pixel 8 Pro, and all of these phones use the latest Tensor G3 chipset. The Pro model has more RAM, but the two cheaper Pixel 8 phones are identical in RAM and storage.

If you're considering the Pixel 8, you might just save money and buy the Pixel 8a, unless you need a better camera (or you really prefer the Pixel 8 colors). But that's the only reason to spend more on the Pixel 8. You'll probably be just as happy with the Pixel 8a, and even happier when you have money leftover to spend on cases and accessories.

Google Pixel 8a review: Price and availability

(Image credit: Philip Berne / Future)

• $499 / £499 / AU$849 for 8GB RAM, 128GB storage
• Available in sweet Bay blue and Aloe green (also black and white-ish)

The Pixel 8a costs $499 / £499 / AU$849, which is a relief for our American readers but now Australia knows how we felt last year. In the US, that’s the same as the Pixel 7a cost a year ago, but £50 more in the UK and $100 more in Australia. Google raised the price for the Pixel 7a in the US, but kept things stable for Americans this year, and that's great because the Pixel 8a feels like a better value than ever before. 

Google is offering seven years of Android OS updates for the Pixel 8a. Let's be honest, you probably won't have this phone in seven years, but somebody might, and they'll get the latest software. Whether you pass this down to a kid or trade it for your next phone, the Pixel 8a should last longer than before, and that's a huge vote of confidence from Google.

Android phones don't hold their value as well as Apple iPhones, and while longevity isn't the biggest reason, having longer support could help Android’s reputation, which could improve value in the long run.

You can barely see the two-tone greens on the Pixel 6a (left) (Image credit: Philip Berne / Future)

The Pixel 7a and the Pixel 6a were continually offered at a discount, usually at Amazon first, and it's likely that you'll find the Pixel 8a available cheaper, eventually. 

Don't wait, the Pixel 8a is worth buying now. In the past I recommended waiting for a sale, but this feels like a phone that performs above its price range, so there's no reason to wait if you want one now. 

For the same price, you can get a OnePlus 12R. While there is much to recommend that phone, I think most people should stick with the Pixel 8a. The OnePlus 12R is faster, with a bigger, better display. It has a huge battery, and it charges much faster than almost any other smartphone you can buy, let alone the Pixel 8a.

The OnePlus 12R isn't water resistant, though, so it's less durable, and that makes a huge difference to me. It also doesn't get the same seven years of Android OS updates, and OnePlus isn't even trying to make AI features that compete with Google. In terms of software, OnePlus does a nice job, but Google still rules the Android roost.

• Value score: 5 / 5

Google Pixel 8a review: Specs

(Image credit: Philip Berne / Future)

The Pixel 8a has the same Google Tensor G3 chipset as the two more expensive Pixel 8 phones. It comes with 8GB of RAM, just like the Pixel 8. In processor and graphics benchmarks, performance was effectively identical between the Pixel 8a and the Pixel 8.

The Pixel 8a also has a bright display like the Pixel 8, and in our tests both phones reached above 1,450 nits at 100% brightness. 

Where the Pixel 8 pulls ahead and earns its premium, aside from the improved cameras, are in the smaller details. The Pixel 8 uses Gorilla Glass Victus, which is stronger than the Gorilla Glass 3 on the Pixel 8a. The Pixel 8 has Wi-Fi 7, though that's only useful if you also have a new Wi-Fi 7 router.

Google Pixel 8a review: Design

(Image credit: Philip Berne / Future)

• It’s a Pixel, and every Pixel looks the same
• Plastic back holds its own against glass

If you wanted a cuter, more curvaceous version of the Pixel 8, the Pixel 8a delivers. Sure, it looks like every other Pixel phone since the Pixel 6, but that's brand identity. I actually like the camera bar, I prefer its symmetry to the camera bump on most other phones. 

The Pixel 8a has nicely rounded corners, and some flashy color options, including the brighter-than-expected Aloe green of my review sample, a nice step into the light from the more subdued Mint green Pixel 8.

(Image credit: Philip Berne / Future)

The back is plastic, not glass, but the matte finish and great colors make it look much more premium than the ugly plastic phones of yore. Glossy plastic is out; the Pixel 8a is in. 

Otherwise… it's a Pixel, and you know what that looks like by now. It looks like every other Pixel. I miss the two-tone options of the Pixel 6 phones (check out the green and yellow-green Pixel 6a in my photos), but it's still a pretty phone that’ll stand out just enough from the herd of Galaxy and iPhones.

• Design score: 5 / 5

Google Pixel 8a review: Display

(Image credit: Philip Berne / Future)

• Bright display matches the Pixel 8
• You can find bigger (and brighter) on competing phones

Google's new so-called ‘Actua’ displays were a key selling point for the Pixel 8 family, so I'm pleased to report the Pixel 8a earns its spot in the lineup with a bright, colorful display that doesn't skimp on specs. It has a 120Hz refresh rate and the same 2,000-nit peak brightness potential as the Pixel 8.

The bezel is a bit thick, but you won't notice unless you hold it up next to another phone. The smaller size of the Pixel 8a, with its 6.1-inch OLED display, is one of my favorite aspects of its design; it's a nice, compact phone. 

In fact, the phone was so easy to hold and use that I decided to use the Pixel 8a to write the first draft of this review on my flights back from Google I/O 2024. I wrote a few thousand words on the Pixel 8a display, and it was comfortable thanks to the smaller size. 

I had some trouble seeing the display in the bright California sunshine in Mountain View, which made some photography hard, but this was only a problem on the clearest day with the sun overhead. Indoors, the display seemed exceptionally bright, so perhaps it just needed a better reflective coating.

OnePlus 12R (6.7-inch) behind the Pixel 8a (6.1-inch) (Image credit: Philip Berne / Future)

The OnePlus 12R does have a larger, 6.7-inch display, and OnePlus claims it can hit an eye-piercing (no, seriously) 4,500 nits of brightness, but we haven’t seen it achieve this in our tests. Still, for the same price you can get a larger display, but the compact size is part of the Pixel 8a appeal.

• Display score: 4 / 5

Google Pixel 8a review: Software

(Image credit: Philip Berne / Future)

• All of Google’s cool AI features are here, for now
• Google’s Android is clean and easy to use

Google makes the best Android phone software, much better than Samsung’s OneUI. While OnePlus and Motorola stay close to Google’s designs, you can't beat the House of Android for simplicity and ease of use.

Maybe it's getting too easy? Android used to have many more customization options to organize your home screens and your app list. Most of these are gone now. You can't even put apps into folders in Google's app menu.

On the other hand, Google does the best job with things like notifications. If I get a notification I don't want, I just hold my finger on the message and I get a robust settings tool that lets me turn off all notices from an app, or just certain categories of interruptions. I get to pick what each app notifies me about, and I don't have to dig to find the options. They just appear with a press.

(Image credit: Philip Berne / Future)

The new AI tools keep getting better. I make a new AI wallpaper every few days. Even better, I now let Google's AI answer most of my impersonal phone calls, and I can see what my caller says in a live transcript as the AI handles them. 

The Gemini AI features are good, and it isn't a perfect Google Assistant replacement, but Gemini can use Google Assistant as one of its tools, to make up the difference. 

The AI features are constantly growing. Gemini can now help compose email messages in the Gmail app, and I'd expect it will soon offer help in the mobile Docs, Sheets, and maybe Slides apps. 

Unfortunately, the Gemini app stopped working for me suddenly a few days before this review published. I have reached out to Google to make sure that this is an isolated issue, and I will update if I get a response.

The Pixel 8a also carries forward the best of Google's AI image editing in Google Photos. You get the classic Magic Eraser and the newer Magic Editor AI features as well.

Google Gemini will offer suggestions in apps like Gmail (Image credit: Philip Berne / Future)

The reason it can handle all these features is because the processing is done by Google in the cloud. You’ll eventually be able to load the Gemini Nano language model onto the phone to handle some generative writing locally, but it will be hidden as a developer option. I suspect that's more because of the audience and target market for this bargain phone, and not because of any performance deficit. 

Will Google really support the Pixel 8a for seven years? I had concerns, so I spoke to Google before this phone arrived at my door. Google’s Pixel reps assure me they have a roadmap for Tensor G3 phones that will last 7 years. In 2031, the Pixel 8a will retire with Android 21 on board, because Google has a plan. Android yellowcake, perhaps.

• Software score: 4 / 5

Google Pixel 8a review: Cameras

All the photo modes from the Pixel 8 Pro are here (Image credit: Philip Berne / Future)

• Photos look very similar to shots from the Pixel 8 Pro
• A bit grainy close up, and blurry at night

Google’s Pixel A-series phones are usually an easy pick for the best bargain camera phone because they are unfussy and produce great images that are perfect for sharing online. By that, I mean they don’t look great if you zoom in too close, but for viewing on smaller screens, the Pixel 8a makes photos that look surprisingly good. 

How good? To test the Pixel 8a camera, I compared photos against the Pixel 8 Pro, Google’s best camera phone and one of my favorites. The photos were remarkably similar. If I didn’t zoom in on a shot, I often couldn’t tell which photo was taken by the Pixel 8a and which by the Pixel 8 Pro. Google’s color and light balancing are nearly identical on both phones. Only in the darkest conditions was the Pixel 8 Pro advantage clear. 

To compare with the Google Pixel 8 Pro, here is a sample that shows more detail from the Pro camera, but both images look good. The color and lighting is very similar across both devices. 

Image 1 of 2

Google Pixel 8a photo (Image credit: Philip Berne / Future)Image 2 of 2

Google Pixel 8 Pro photo (Image credit: Philip Berne / Future)

This low-light photo shows the clearest distinction between the Pixel 8 Pro and the Pixel 8a. The Pixel 8 Pro is clearly better in dark conditions, but when I looked at the photos on my phone screen, this was the only photo I found easy to determine which phone took the shot. 

Image 1 of 2

Google Pixel 8a photo (Image credit: Philip Berne / Future)Image 2 of 2

Google Pixel 8 Pro photo (Image credit: Philip Berne / Future)

That’s a pretty remarkable feat, and good for Pixel 8a buyers because these phones both take great photos. You’ll see the difference in fine details, though. The Pixel 8 Pro has a 50MP sensor, after all. 

The Pixel 8a uses a 64MP sensor but it only outputs 16MP images. It combines four pixels into one in a process called 'pixel binning,' and there’s no way to get full-resolution, 64MP shots from the Camera app. Even RAW image files (why on a bargain A-series phone?) only have a 16MP resolution. 

The Pixel 8a offers all the same shooting modes as the Pixel 8 Pro, including Night Sight for nighttime shots around town, and long exposure, for cool shots of moving traffic and running water. 

It also has all of the same AI editing tricks in the Google Photos app. You get Magic Eraser, to remove unwanted people, and Magic Editor, to turn them into giants or move them to one side. There’s Best Shot, which replaces faces in a group photo when somebody has their eyes closed. It even has the amazing Audio Eraser for videos, to remove background noise and distractions. 

What’s especially cool, if you’re new to Pixel phones, is that you can edit photos and videos that you didn’t shoot with your Pixel phone. Anything in Google Photos is fair game. Upload all of your old iPhone photos to Google, go buy a Pixel 8a, then use Unblur to make them all as sharp as new. 

• Camera score: 3 / 5

Google Pixel 8 Pro camera samples

Here are samples taken around New York City and at the Google I/O 2024 conference in Mountain View. 

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(Image credit: Philip Berne / Future) Google Pixel 8a review: Performance

(Image credit: Philip Berne / Future)

• Google’s Tensor G3 isn’t winning any contests
• Seven years of Android support means Google trusts the chipset

Admittedly, the Pixel 8a and all of the Tensor G3 generation of Pixel phones are not top performing phones. Any phone with a Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 or newer Snapdragon, and any recent iPhone will outperform the Pixel 8 in benchmark tests. What does that mean in the real world? Not much. 

Unless you're playing the most-demanding games or using advanced photo or video editing tools, the Pixel 8a will be enough to keep up. It ran all of my games, including Call of Duty and Marvel Snap, with no trouble. It just didn't run games as smoothly as the Galaxy S24 can run them.

There was some delay with many of the AI features, but that's because the Pixel 8a needs to talk to Google before it gives you an answer. Even AI Wallpapers rely on Google's cloud for help, and there is a back and forth delay. My phone does not have access to Gemini Nano yet, so I'm curious to see if that speeds up any generative writing. 

I had some trouble using Bluetooth on the Pixel 8a. The phone kept finding and refinding my Pixel Buds Pro. I had to reconnect them three times in a week. It had trouble holding the connection with my car stereo, and twice it lost my Ray Ban Meta smart glasses. In a week or so of testing, I had only a small handful of issues, but it was annoying. 

• Performance score: 3 / 5

Google Pixel 8a review: Battery

The USB-C charging port is 'faster' than before (Image credit: Philip Berne / Future)

• The Pixel 8a’s biggest weakness
• Also the Pixel 7a’s weakness, and the Pixel 6a’s weakness

Battery life is the Pixel 8a’s biggest letdown, which isn't a surprise considering the Pixel 7a and Pixel 6a suffered the same shortcoming. A compromise must be made to bring the price down, and Google apparently compromises on battery life. 

In my real-world testing, the Pixel 8a never lasted a full day of use. I used the phone at home, for work, and traveling by plane to Google I/O. It usually needed a top-up on the battery after dinner, if I was going to keep using it. 

Future Labs is still testing the Pixel 8a, but early rundown tests put battery life at just over 11 hours of use. To compare, the OnePlus 12R, our pick for best battery life, topped 19 hours of life on the same test, and it charges much faster. The phones cost the same, too. 

The Pixel 8 also charges a bit faster than the Pixel 8a, whether wired and wireless, and the Pixel 8 can charge other devices wirelessly, which the 8a can't do.

• Battery score: 3 / 5

Should you buy the Google Pixel 8a?

Pixel 6a, Pixel 7a, and Pixel 8a (left to right) (Image credit: Philip Berne / Future) Buy it if...

You were considering the Pixel 8
The Pixel 8a gives you just about everything you get with the Pixel 8, for less. The cameras aren't as good, but if the 8a gets a good discount, it's game over for the Pixel 8.

You want to try Google’s AI stuff
The Pixel 8a is the cheapest entry into Google's new AI world, with generative AI writing tools and image editing on board. And it will keep getting better, we hope. 

You care about durability and longevity
You can find better specs at this price (hello, OnePlus 12R), but the Pixel 8a is more durable than the competition, with 7 years of Android updates – unheard of at this price. 

Don't buy it if...

You want a big, fast flagship killer
For the same price, the OnePlus 12R gives you better performance, a bigger screen, and the best battery life. Just don't get it wet.

You need amazing cameras
The Pixel 8a took solid photos that were satisfying to share. It doesn't have long zoom or the fine details of the Pixel 8 Pro, however. 

You're really going to keep a phone for 7 years
Even if Google updates this phone with a new Android every year, in seven years this phone will be astronomically underpowered. Go for a faster device if you want to finish that marathon.

Google Pixel 8a review: Also consider

Google Pixel 8
The Pixel 8 has better cameras than the Pixel 8a, and you can see the difference. There aren't many other advantages that matter, but the cameras may justify the extra cost for some folks.

OnePlus 12R
You want power and performance over software smarts. OnePlus isn't offering AI features or seven years of updates, but the OnePlus 12R gives you much faster performance and incredible battery life for the same price. It looks snazzy, too.

How I tested the Google Pixel 8a

I received the Pixel 8a from Google a few days before Google I/O 2024, so I used this phone as my only work phone for the conference, as well as the days before and after. 

I used the Pixel 8a to take product photos and news photos for our I/O live blog, to keep connected on Slack and Gmail, and to stay entertained on my flights.

I connected the Pixel 8a to a number of peripherals, including the Pixel Watch 2, Pixel Buds Pro, and Ray Ban Meta smart glasses.

I also wrote all of the copy for this review in Google Docs using the Pixel 8a and its on-screen keyboard. I don't usually bother with a stunt like that, but I had seven hours of flying ahead of me and I wanted to write on the plane, and the Pixel 8a is a great size for using in a crowded space like a middle seat.

Read more about how we test

First reviewed May 2024

Asus ExpertBook BR1204F: 30-second review Specs

CPU: Intel® Processor N1000, 0.8 GHz (up to 3.4 GHz, 4 cores)
Graphics: Intel® UHD Graphics
RAM: 8GB DDR5 onboard (Max up to 16GB)
Storage: 128GB UFS, expandable via 1x M.2 2280 PCIe 3.0x4 slot
Rear Ports: Not specified
Front Ports: 1x USB 3.2 Gen 2 Type-C (supports display/power delivery), 1x USB 2.0 Type-C, 2x USB 3.2 Gen 1 Type-A, 1x HDMI 1.4, 1x 3.5mm Combo Audio Jack, 1x RJ45 Gigabit Ethernet
Connectivity: Wi-Fi 6 (802.11ax) Dual band 2*2 + Bluetooth® 5.2 Wireless Card
Audio: Audio by Dirac, built-in speakers, built-in array microphone, Cortana support
Camera: 720p HD camera with privacy shutter, 13.0M world-facing camera
Size: 12.2-inch touchscreen, WUXGA (1920 x 1200) 16:10, glossy display with Corning Gorilla® Glass
OS installed: Windows 11 Pro Education
Accessories: Optional MPP 2.0 garaged stylus

The Asus ExpertBook BR1204F is a robust and flexible laptop specifically designed for educational facilities. It provides students and teachers with workstations that meet standard academic course criteria while allowing easy upgrades and repairs.

From the ground up, this laptop is crafted with its intended audience in mind, resulting in a functional, if slightly unexciting, design. We've tested out loads of the best student laptops, and unlike many sleek modern devices with high-end CPUs, GPUs, and storage, this Asus model offers a more traditional word processing-focused approach, at least on first look.

The Intel Processor N200 easily handles Windows 11 Pro for Education and standard word processing applications. It even supports applications like Tinkercad without issues, making it one of the best laptops for engineering students and 3D modellers - but only if your needs are pretty simple or you're just starting out. While Adobe Photoshop and Adobe Lightroom can run, performance could be enhanced with a slight HD and RAM upgrade from our review unit.

While it looks like a traditional laptop, the BR1204F features a flip-over design that sees the keyboard flip under the screen, transforming the machine into a tablet and very capable creative tool. It features an outstanding touch screen protected by Gorilla Glass, ideal for less delicate students. Apps such as Microsoft's garage project Sketch360 and the native drawing app function smoothly.

Overall, this machine is designed with a focus on education. For educational-based fun and games, it performs well, though it's not intended for video or image editing. However, some graphics and creative applications are feasible with its flip screen design. It's a well-made, and designed educational tool, with straightforward maintenance requiring just a few tools.

Asus ExpertBook BR1204F: Introduction

The Asus ExpertBook BR1204F is a laptop specifically designed for education as part of Asus's Education product line. Consequently, many high-end features typically promoted are not the focus here. The Intel N200 CPU and standard Intel graphics are sufficient for office applications and academic study, rather than multimedia playback or overly distracting games.

The machine is tailored to meet classroom demands, equipped with Windows 11 Pro for Education, a stylus, and a flip screen design, enabling students to use it as a screen, tablet, or laptop, offering versatility.

When used with Microsoft Teams, the whiteboard feature is invaluable, allowing students to interact with the class by drawing directly on the board without leaving their seats. Class materials and formative and summative feedback can be easily distributed through the Teams Classroom environment.

Of course, the classroom is just part of what an education laptop needs to address. With decent battery life in use and standby mode, the system has enough power to last through a day's worth of lessons between charges. Charging is quick via a standard USB Type-C connector, and the machine offers a good array of other connection options for connecting devices such Lego Mindstorms, 3D printers, Laser Engravers and networks.

One of the most appealing features for education is the ease of maintenance, with a five-point procedure for maintaining, repairing, and upgrading, making it quick and easy for any IT technician or anyone with basic IT hardware skills.

The Asus ExpertBook BR1204F is fully geared toward education, and in that environment, the choice of hardware makes complete sense. Outside that world, the limited storage space and processing power might be restrictive.

Asus ExpertBook BR1204F: Price & availability

(Image credit: Alastair Jennings)

The ExpertBook BR1204F is designed for education and is part of the Asus Education Solution program. For more information on purchasing the machine please visit your local education supplier.

• Price: 4/5

Asus ExpertBook BR1204F: Design & build

(Image credit: Alastair Jennings)

The laptop's size is compact, measuring 297mm x 213mm x 22mm and weighing 1.47kg, making it easy to carry or fit into most bags or backpacks. Its relatively flat shape allows easy stacking of several BR1204Fs in a secure cupboard or custom computer stand.

Designed for classroom use by students, the laptop’s overall construction is tough, though not to the standards of a tough book, so it will withstand knocks and far more abuse than most but will not survive submersion in water or drops from significant heights.

The robust construction is evident when picking up the laptop, as it feels more solid than similar general-use laptops. Aside from the stylus integrated into the case design, there are no protective doors or components that can be easily dislodged. Additionally, access to the inner electronics is secured by cross-head screws to prevent young engineers from making hardware alterations in class.

Once the lid is lifted, the robust build is clear, with large, thick monitor hinges designed to be extremely strong. If a student wants to walk around with the laptop open, held by the monitor, it should withstand this handling, although it is obviously not ideal.

The general layout includes a small touchpad, a keyboard, and a 12.2-inch monitor. While the touchpad and keyboard are standard, the monitor stands out as a full touch screen toughened with Gorilla Glass, making it more resilient in a classroom.

The laptop’s left and right sides feature connection ports, including 1x RJ45 Gigabit Ethernet, HDMI 1.4, USB 2.0 Type-C, USB 3.2 Gen 1 Type-A, and the stylus on the left, and USB 3.2 Gen 2 Type-C (supporting display/power delivery), USB 3.2 Gen 1 Type-A, and a 3.5mm Combo Audio Jack on the right.

An interesting feature are the two cameras: one above the screen and another above the keyboard. This second world-facing camera can be used with applications like Microsoft Office Lens. When the keyboard is flipped under the screen the now rear-facing camera can scan documents or students' work with the preview appearing on screen, essentially think mobile phone. The captured image can then be cast to a whiteboard or stored for portfolio work.

The flip screen means that the laptop can be used as a touch screen tablet or part open can be used as a stand so the laptop can sit on a desk as a handy screen, enabling class materials to be cast during presentations and the Teams Whiteboard feature to be used by the entire class for interactive sessions.

Using the laptop reveals more to its design compared to standard off-the-shelf machines, with features updated to ensure better functionality within a classroom environment.

The final aspect of the design is crucial for education IT engineers. The BR1204F is modular, meaning it can be purchased as is and expanded as needed for each intended use. Our review unit was suitable for most office applications, but with upgraded RAM and storage, it could edit HD footage and images. More importantly, the modular design simplifies maintenance.

The Panel, I/O ports, Keyboard, Thermal Module, and Battery are all quickly accessible, serviceable, and replaceable. Unlike other laptops, where removing these parts can be time-consuming and delicate, requiring specialist intervention, the modular design of the BR1204F simplifies the process significantly.

• Design: 5/5

Asus ExpertBook BR1204F: Features

(Image credit: Alastair Jennings)

The BR1204F is designed from the outset as a durable and versatile laptop, tablet, and screen for educational environments. It may not be the best rugged laptop we've tried, but built for its intended use, it's more durable than most devices of its size and specifications, meeting MIL-STD 810H US military durability standards, with a fingerprint-resistant finish, full rubber bumper, and spill-resistant keyboard.

The display is a 12.2-inch touchscreen, protected by scratch-resistant Corning Gorilla Glass for durability, with a 16:10 aspect ratio and TÜV Rheinland certification for low blue-light emissions.

Standard storage options are relatively small at 128 GB of integrated UFS 2.1 storage, ideal for educational environments where multiple students use the same machine and files are stored in the cloud. For additional storage, there is an expansion slot for up to 1TB. The laptop also features advanced AI-powered noise-cancellation technology to isolate background noise during video calls, enhancing call quality.

Connectivity is well-catered for, with Wi-Fi 6E and 4G LTE ensuring fast connections for online learning, whether in the classroom or remote. An essential feature for tablet use is the inclusion of a garaged stylus, held on the left side of the machine and charged while docked, providing a more accurate tool than a finger for using and drawing on the touchscreen.

Beyond student use, the Asus BR1204F's design is fully serviceable, with a modular design allowing easy access and upgrades to internal components.

• Features: 4/5

Asus ExpertBook BR1204F: Performance

(Image credit: Alastair Jennings) Benchmarks

Crystal Disk Read: 1709.58MB/s
Crystal Disk Write: 923.20MB/s
GeekBench CPU Single: 2754
GeekBench CPU Multi: 1220
GeekBench Compute: 3891
PC Mark: 2824
CineBench CPU Multi: 2300
CineBench CPU Single: 794
Fire Strike Graphics: 1204
Fire Strike Physics: 379
Fire Strike Combined: 379
Time Spy Overall: 430
Time Spy Graphics: 376
Time Spy CPU: 2444
Wild Life: N/A
Windows Experience: 8.0

Ordinarily, processing power is a primary concern for any computer, but within an educational environment, you just need a machine that works, runs the necessary apps, is durable, and can be fixed when the inevitable happens. With the BR1204F, Asus has provided exactly that, and if more is needed, the RAM and storage can be upgraded.

In use for all Microsoft Office applications, the BR1204F works smoothly, handling word processing and all the features of Teams with ease. Most importantly, the connection to a wireless network is robust, and the ability to link to the wired network as a backup adds resilience compared to some alternatives.

Outside of office apps, the lack of storage at 128GB is somewhat restrictive, allowing only small additional apps to be installed before running low on space. A base of 256GB would have been better, given the size of the Windows installation.

The integration with Teams is the major advantage here, with classroom apps enabling interactive sessions, and the touchscreen allowing all class members to engage with the lesson. The touchscreen also adds flexibility to the laptop’s use, and while drawing apps are not super quick, they are fluid enough to be enjoyable.

The benchmark results for the Asus BR1204F highlight its capabilities in handling educational tasks. The 3DMark Fire Strike graphics score of 1109 and a combined score of 379 suggest it can handle basic graphics and interactive classroom applications smoothly. Time Spy's overall score of 430, with a graphics score of 376 and CPU score of 2444 highlights its ability to run multi-threaded tasks, ideal for applications like Tinkercad and Lego Mindstorms.

Cinebench R23's multi-core score of 2300 and single-core score of 794 indicate moderate performance for multitasking and single-threaded applications like Microsoft Office, so just running one possibly two applications at a time is advisable. GeekBench 5 scores, with 2754 for multi-core and 1220 for single-core, underscore its ability to handle general computing tasks and most educational software well. The CrystalDiskMark read and write speeds of 1709.58 MB/s and 923.20 MB/s respectively ensure quick data access and saving, beneficial for handling large files and applications. 

PCMark 10's score of 2824 and a Windows Experience Index score of 8 reflect the laptop's robust performance for productivity tasks, again highlighting all Office applications, making it well-suited for extensive use with Microsoft Teams and classroom features.

• Performance: 3/5

Should you buy the Asus ExpertBook BR1204F?

The Asus ExpertBook BR1204F is a solidly built, education-focused laptop offering a robust and versatile solution for students. Its durable design, coupled with a flexible touchscreen and easy maintenance, makes it ideal for the demands of a classroom environment. While the base model's storage is limited, the device's modular design allows for easy upgrades, enhancing its longevity and utility in education. Overall, it's a superb educational tool that prioritises function and durability over high-end specs, making it a worthwhile investment for schools and educational institutions.

(Image credit: Alastair Jennings) Buy it if... Don't buy it if...

We've tested the best laptops for photo editing - and these are our top picks

Smeg Professional Blender: two-minute review

The Smeg Professional Blender is a sleek, high-end appliance with an impressive array of functions: nine blending speeds, four presets, plus a Pulse and Auto Clean mode. It comes with 1.5 liter Tritan jug, a fixed blade, vacuum pump attachment, tamper, spatula, and cleaning brush. I tested one out to see how it compares to the rest of the best blenders on the market. 

This model is known by different names in different territories: 

• US model: BLC01BLMUS Professional
• UK model: BLC02BLMUK High Performance
• Australian model: BLC02BLMAU High Performance

For this review I tested the UK model; note there might be minor differences between different countries' versions. 

Smeg as a brand is perhaps best known for its juicers and espresso machines, but it also makes a small selection of blenders – elsewhere in the range you'll find the entry-level Smeg personal blender and a mid-range Smeg jug blender. The model I tested for this review is the brand's high-end jug blender.

Unlike the brightly-colored and bubble-shape of the majority of the Smeg appliance range, the Professional blender is more sleek and subtle. It's powered by a 1400W motor, and has a row of preset buttons along the top of its aluminum and plastic base. These are then controlled via an intuitive LCD dial on the front. 

Thanks to the blender's slim design, it fits comfortably under kitchen cupboards, even with the jug attached. While its relatively low weight makes it easy to move around your countertop, and store. However, the fact the blades aren't removable makes things tricky when it comes to cleaning and getting blended food out of the jug.

(Image credit: Future)

For this review, I used the blender to make a range of drinks and food, including a smoothie, a sauce and hummus. I also used it to crush ice. For the items that had preset functions, namely the smoothie and the ice, the performance was near-perfect. However, for the items for which I had to use the blender's Manual mode, the performance was hit-and-miss. For its premium price ($429.95 / £499.99 / AU$799), I expected slightly more consistent results.  

However, all things considered, the Smeg Professional Blender looks great and works well. If you can afford it, and especially if you've previously been put off by the bright designs of the rest of the Smeg range, it will be a decent investment that should last you a long time. 

Smeg Professional Blender review: price & availability

• List price: $429.95 / £499.99 / AU$799

At time of writing, there are three models in the Smeg BLC01 blender range and the Professional version is the most expensive, with a list price of $429.95 / £499.99 / AU$799. For this price you get the blender base with a fixed blade, a 6 cup / 1.5 liter Tritan jug, a vacuum pump attachment, tamper, spatula and cleaning brush.

This price makes the Professional model significantly more expensive than other high-end models from the likes of Ninja and Nutribullet. In fact, many rival models, including Ninja's Foodi Power Blender system, offer a much wider range of accessories, blades and settings for half the price. 

In the US, the Smeg Professional Blender is available in black (BLC01BLMUS) or white (BLC01WHMUS) and is sold at Crate & Barrel, Williams-Sonoma, plus a number of third-party retailers. You can see the full-range of retailers on the Smeg website.

In the UK, the appliance is known as the Smeg High-Performance blender and it's available directly from Smeg, AO, Robert Dyas and Amazon. Its black model is sold under code BLC02BLMUK, while its white version is BLC02WHMUK. 

In Australia, the black (BLC02BLMAU), and white (BLC02WHMAU) models, plus an emerald green (BLC02EGMAU) version are sold as the High-Performance blender from Smeg, and Amazon. 

If you want a Smeg blender but can't stretch to the Professional model, the entry-level PBF01 Personal blender costs $169.95 / £109.95 / AU$199. It only makes single serve drinks and has just two blending speeds but it's more compact. Alternatively, the mid-range, 50s style Smeg BLF03 Jug Blender costs $299.95 /£179.95 / AUS $362. It has the same 1.5L BPA-free Tritan Jug seen on the Professional model, and a range of presets, but only four blending speeds. It also lacks the vacuum, and Auto Clean feature of the Professional.

With the Smeg Professional blender you're largely paying for the brand and style. The performance is solid, the range of blending options is good, and the vacuum attachment and Auto Clean features are welcome. Yet none of these are revolutionary. This does mean the price of the Smeg Professional blender is a little excessive, but at least you know you're getting a quality appliance from a trusted manufacturer. 

• Value for money score: 3 out of 5

Smeg Professional Blender specifications Smeg Professional Blender review: design & features

• 1400w motor, 1.5 liter BPA-Free Tritan jug
• 9 blending speeds + 4 presets, Pulse, and Auto Clean
• Sleek design, but blades are fixed

Smeg is as renowned for the design of its appliances as it is for their functionality. The BLC01 blender is no exception. However, unlike the bubble-shaped, brightly colored designs seen across the majority of the Smeg range, the Professional blender looks much sleeker and more high-end.  

There are hints at the iconic 'Smeg' shape, but they're more subtle. The base has smooth, curved lines with either a white or black plastic panel on the back, and an aluminum panel on the front emblazoned with the Smeg logo. I was sent a black model to review and it fit in seamlessly with my other metal and black appliances and cream units. 

Inside the base is the 1400W motor which produces a max spin of 22,000 RPM. Below the Smeg logo is a circular dial with an LCD display. The power button is on the left-hand side of the base, and along the top is a row of buttons that each relate to the blender's different presets. 

From left to right these buttons are:

• Smoothie
• Green smoothie
• Frozen dessert
• Ice Crush
• Autoclean
• Pulse

In addition to these presets, you can manually select from one of nine blending speeds in Manual Mode. 

(Image credit: Future)

Size-wise, the blender measures 16.6 x 6.6 x 8.9 inches / 42.1 x 16.8 x 22.5 cm (H x W x D) and this means it should fit comfortably under most kitchen cupboards, even with the jug attached. Adding the vacuum pump to the top of the jug extends its height to 20.5 inches / 52.1 cm. 

Weight-wise, the base and jug together weigh 14.5lb / 6.6 kg and this makes it easy to move around your countertop, or if you want to store it in a drawer or cupboard. It then has anti-slip feet on the bottom of the base, and a 3ft / 1m cord. 

(Image credit: Future)

The jug slots on and off the base easily; there is no fiddly twisting or locking it into place like on most blenders. I was concerned it would move during use but it never did. A lid with a silicone seal slides on top, with a small, twist-off cap that is used to add ingredients mid-blend. 

When making green smoothies, or any drink where you want to retain the nutritional value of your ingredients, the battery-powered vacuum is attached in place of the twist-off cap. 

Smeg traditionalists may not like the sleeker, less conspicuous design of the Professional blender but I'm a big fan. It looks more professional and the small touches such as the smooth dial and discreet controls make it feel premium and closer in design to what I'd expect for the price point.

In fact, my only real complaint about the design is that the blades aren't removable. This means that cleaning the Smeg Professional Blender can be tricky, and somewhat dangerous. I couldn't guarantee that the jug and undersides of the blades were as clean as I'd like when washing by hand. Thankfully, the jug is dishwasher safe and the blender comes with a dedicated Automatic Cleaning mode. So this is a minor point.

• Design score: 4.5 out of 5

Smeg Professional Blender review: performance

• Didn't fully blitz kale or seeds 
• Makes perfect crushed ice
• Presets perform better than manual settings

With each of the appliances I review, I begin by seeing if I can navigate the different controls and settings without looking at the Quick Start guide or instruction manual. This gives me an idea of how intuitive they truly are and the Smeg Professional blender passed the test. 

The icons on each of the buttons are fairly obvious. My only confusion came from knowing what the difference was between the standard Smoothie button and its Green Smoothie equivalent. Pressing each of these presets brings the LCD display to life and it shows the blending time for the selected setting and an icon of either a single person (for Single Serve drinks) or a group of people for the Family Serve option. You can turn the dial to switch between these two modes before pushing the dial in to start the blend.

(Image credit: Future)

The default time for a Single smoothie is 30 seconds. This increases to 45 seconds on Family Serve mode (other default settings are listed in the manual). You can, at any point, turn the dial to increase or decrease the speed. If you'd rather use the Manual mode, simply turn the dial (without any presets selected) to cycle through the nine speed settings. Then push to start.

Image 1 of 2

(Image credit: Future)Image 2 of 2

(Image credit: Future)

For my first test, I made a kale, blueberry and banana smoothie mixed with almond milk. I pressed the Green Smoothie button, due to the presence of kale, turned the dial to select the Single Serve mode and pushed the dial to start the blend. The resulting smoothie looked far from appealing, but it tasted delicious. 

The texture was thick and slightly gritty, and I could see small flecks of kale floating in the drink but this didn't take away from the enjoyment of drinking it. I had worried I'd be able to feel the kale in my mouth, but the overall texture of the smoothie meant the whole thing went down, well, smooth. 

(Image credit: Future)

Next, I used the blender to create crushed ice using the Ice Crush setting. This setting causes the blender to operate in short bursts for 35 seconds to crush the ice to a powder. It worked fantastically and created perfectly even and smooth powdered ice that was perfect for margaritas, or slushies.

Lastly, I used the Smeg blender to make tahini, before using the tahini to make hummus. I toasted sesame seeds, poured them into the jug and blended them at Speed 6 in Manual mode for 20 seconds, until they had a crumbly texture. I added olive oil and blended for a further two minutes until the tahini was smooth. I then added the tahini, garlic cloves, oil, lemon juice, drained chickpeas, a pinch of ground cumin and sea salt into the blender and blitzed the mixture for 10 seconds on Speed 4. I removed the lid, used a spatula to scrape the mixture from the sides and blended for another 10 seconds. 

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(Image credit: Future)Image 2 of 2

(Image credit: Future)

After 20 seconds, the mixture had barely blended. I repeated the above step five more times – and even then there were still lumps of chickpea and an inconsistent texture. What's more, trying to get all of this mixture out from beneath the blades was difficult and I ended up having to wash a large portion away because it wasn't possible, or safe, for me to remove it, even with the provided cleaning brush. 

(Image credit: Future)

Finally, in terms of noise, the blender averaged around 80dB on lower speeds. During my hummus test, this increased to 85db, on average, and during the Ice Crush test, the decibels soared to 95db+. On Manual Mode, Speed 1 produced around 69db, while on Speed 9 the average reading was 90db. 

From my experience, this blender performs much better when you use the presets than when attempting to make something manually. If you only plan to use the blender for these set purposes – smoothies, frozen desserts and crushing ice – I can barely fault it. If you want it to function closer to a food processor, you may be disappointed.

• Performance score: 4 out of 5

Should I buy the Smeg Professional Blender? Buy it if... Don’t buy it if... How I tested the Smeg Professional Blender

• I used it to blend drinks and food
• I checked the noise level
• I assessed how easy it was to clean

I used the Smeg Professional blender in my own home for two weeks, making smoothies, sauces, hummus and crushed ice. 

I assessed how simple it was to set the blender up, how easy and intuitive it is to use, how well it performed different tasks, its noise levels and how easy it was to clean. 

I’ve been reviewing home and kitchen appliances for more than 15 years and have a wealth of knowledge and experience to draw on when assessing how well a product such as a blender performs. 

Read more about how we test.

• First reviewed May 2024

Fujifilm GFX100S II: two-minute review

Fujifilm has bucked the trend by launching a new camera that is actually cheaper than its predecessor, despite three years of inflation and the improved features on board. There is, therefore, more to the new Fujifilm GFX100S II than its upgraded features – it's priced aggressively to grab the attention of pro photographers teetering between the best full-frame cameras and medium-format. 

Costing around 10% less than the GFX100S was at launch, the GFX100S II is available for $5,000 / £5,000 / AU$8,700, which is a similar price to what you'd pay for comparable full-frame mirrorless cameras – a sensor format Fujifilm isn't making cameras for, but a market it clearly wants a piece of.

And with a whopping 102MP sensor creating high-resolution images exceeding those from any full-frame model, even those shot with the class-leading Sony A7R V, there are plenty of pros who could be better served by the GFX100S II's larger medium-format.

The grip of the GFX100S II is supremely comfortable. (Image credit: Future | Tim Coleman)

Not only has Fujifilm priced the GFX100S II aggressively, but it has trickled down some of the most powerful features the format has ever seen from the pricier GFX100 II flagship, including 7fps burst shooting and AI subject detection autofocus.

It might not be quite as fast as the GFX100 II overall, but the GFX100S II is no slouch and goes some way to put to bed the notion that medium-format is simply slow and confined to a small number of scenarios, such as studio portraiture.

During my hands-on time with the GFX100S II, I've taken photos and videos of animals in a wildlife reserve and been super impressed by the details in those images, but also by the overall speed and autofocus performance in what were pretty challenging scenarios, such as shooting through foliage and enclosure fencing.

The question now for pro photographers considering a larger medium-format camera is less about budget and more about needs. Yes, the GFX100S II is still slower in general than a camera like the Sony A7R V, but not by a lot. And with it you get higher-resolution images with true-to-life colors that are noticeable to pros – at times making full-frame camera image quality feel ordinary.

GFX100S II with GF 100-200mm F5.6 lens attached. (Image credit: Future | Tim Coleman)

For balance, we do need to consider the system that a camera is part of. Thankfully, there are numerous decent Fujifilm GF lenses for the GFX100S II. However, in general they are pricier and chunkier than full-frame equivalents.

Also, for most users interested in the format, there might not be enough reason to upgrade from the GFX100S II's predecessor, the GFX100S, which despite being phased out is still available to buy and now at cut prices – just $4,399 at B&H Photo or £3,499 at WEX – and with which you still get 102MP photos.

All being said, if you weren't already sure about the sensor format, the GFX100S II is the most compelling case for medium-format yet.

Fujifilm GFX100S II: release date and price

• Body-only price is $4,999 / £4,999 / AU$8,699
• Available from June 17
• Optional metal grip available, but no vertical battery grip
• Launched alongside the GF 500mm f/5.6 lens, which costs $3,499 / £3,499 / AU$6,099

Fujifilm is clearly going after those teetering between full-frame and medium format, aggressively pricing the GFX100S II. It's actually cheaper than the GFX100S was at launched by around 10%, despite three years of inflation and the improved features added. 

At $4,999 / £4,999 / AU$8,699 in body-only form, the GFX100S II is going up against some of the best full-frame cameras, such as the Nikon Z8 and Sony A7R V, and is a decent alternative for those that need the best image quality over outright speed. 

Unlike the flagship GFX100 II, you can't buy a vertical grip for the GFX100S II, which would improve the ergonomics with larger lenses and increase battery life. However, you can buy a standard metal hand grip for $120 / £135 / AU$245. There's no word on kit bundles yet, but we do know the sales start date, which is June 17. 

(Image credit: Future | Tim Coleman) Fujifilm GFX100S II: design and handling

• Same body layout as the GFX100S, but with 'bishamon-tex' leather exterior
• Improved 5.76m-dot non-removable EVF
• Two-way tilt touchscreen great for shooting at awkward angles

It might look different to the GFX100S, but the GFX100S II has pretty much the same control layout and form factor. The key difference in the looks department is the camera's finish, which is Fujifilm's 'bishamon-tex' leather, as first seen in the GFX100 II (see photo, below). 

The leather finish is a departure from Fujifilm's retro roots and steps into a modern aesthetic that I'm a fan of. Otherwise, it's as you were with its predecessor, meaning a rugged DSLR-style camera with deep and comfortable grip, plus generous displays that include an improved EVF, versatile multi-angle touchscreen and generous top LCD display.

The latest model is actually slightly lighter than the first one, at 1.95lb / 883g, yet remains well-balanced even with Fujifilm's chunkier GF lenses, such as the 100-200mm f/5.6 R LM OIS WR and new GF 500mm f/5.6 that I had during my hands-on.

The bishamon-tex leather finish that is the hallmark of Fujifilm's medium format cameras today.  (Image credit: Future | Tim Coleman)

The camera is akin to a mid-size full-frame camera such as the mirrorless Nikon Z8 or the Canon EOS 5D Mark IV DSLR, and lighter than a sports-style shooter like the Canon EOS R3. With a GF lens attached, it's not the sort of setup you can comfortably carry for hours on end, but it's easy enough to operate.

Fujifilm GFX100S II key specs

Sensor: 102MP medium format CMOS
Image processor: X-Processor 5
AF system: Hybrid with phase-detect
EVF: 5.76-million dot OLED
ISO range: 80 to 12,800 (ISO 40-102,400 extended range)
Video: 4K/30p 4:2:2 10-bit internal
LCD: 3.2-inch multi-direction tilting touchscreen, 2.36m-dots
Max burst: Up to 7fps
Connectivity: Wi-Fi, Bluetooth
Weight: 883g (body only)

Fujifilm has been able to improve on the GFX100S without encroaching too closely on the current flagship GFX100 II. For example, the EVF has a decent bump in resolution at 5.76m-dots, with a healthy 0.84x magnification, while the pricier GFX100 II has a 9.44m-dot EVF and 1x magnification, plus its viewfinder can be removed or modified using a tilt adaptor.

While the EVF specs are a step down, the display in the GFX100S II is wonderfully big and bright, though like with a lot of EVFs you get lag in low-light conditions.

What remains the same – and needed no real improvement – is the rear LCD, which is a two-way tilt touchscreen. It can't be flipped around for selfies, but it can be tilted in both vertical and horizontal orientations, making it a breeze to view and to operate from virtually any position.

The large top LCD displays exposure information but can be customized to display other info such as a histogram.  (Image credit: Future | Tim Coleman)

The backlit top LCD is super-handy, too. It displays exposure information by default, but you can change that to show the histogram among other things. These are the kind of tools that pro photographers appreciate, making the GFX100S II a particularly good landscape photography camera.

For a camera this size, there are relatively few buttons and controls, making each one easy to find, and in general the tactile response of each control is spot on, although the joystick is a little stubborn.

The two-way tilt touchscreen makes shooting from awkward angles a breeze, though you can't use it for selfies.  (Image credit: Future | Tim Coleman)

By design, the GFX100S II is a photography-first camera, although there's all the basics to support video recording, including a dedicated stills / movie switch, plus mic input, headphone jack and on-the-go USB-C charging.

We also get twin card slots, although both slots are SD card only. It's another differentiator from the flagship model, which can also hold the faster CFexpress Type B card type to better support powerful features, and we'll get onto those next.

The viewfinder is fixed, whereas the one in the GFX100 II can be removed.  (Image credit: Future | Tim Coleman) Fujifilm GFX100S II: features and performance

• Decent Hybrid AF with AI subject detection
• Up to 7fps (electronic) for almost 200 JPEGs
• Dual SD UHS-II slots but no CFexpress Type B support
• In-body image stabilization specs are optimistic

Fujifilm upped the bar with the GFX100 II, delivering never-before-seen medium-format performance. We can't expect the same power from the much cheaper GFX100S II, but it's no slouch. 

The same X-Processor 5 engine can process 102MP files at 7fps for up to 184 JPEG images or 30 compressed raw files. Those burst-shooting sequences aren't quite as lengthy as you'll get on the GFX100 II, though if you don't mind dropping to 4.1fps then you'll get a huge bump in the number of frames you can capture. 

A comparable full-frame camera such as the Sony A7R V can shoot at 10fps, but we should remember the huge file sizes that the GFX100S II is creating: the full- resolution raw files are around 200MB a pop and measure 11648x8736 pixels. 

Burst-shooting sequences and buffer performance is compromised because the GFX100S II records on to SD UHS-II cards only, with dual card slots, while the GFX100 II can record to much snappier CFexpress Type B cards.

102MP images at 7fps means you can capture superb detail and the best moment. I've heavily cropped into the full-resolution version of this image, shot through a fence with the 500mm F5.6 lens. (Image credit: Future | Tim Coleman)

Fujifilm says in-body image stabilization (IBIS) performance is improved, with up to 8-stops of stabilization depending on the lens in use. IBIS is possibly the single most important feature of a high-resolution camera like this, compensating for camera shake when shooting handheld to ensure sharp detail.

It's IBIS that enables a 102MP camera like the GFX100S II to break free from a tripod and truly be a handheld camera. Frankly, I found 8-stops a tad optimistic. First impressions are that Panasonic's IBIS in the full-frame Lumix S5 II performs better, as does the Hasselblad X2D 100C. With the new GF 500mm F5.6 lens I was reliably getting more like 4-stops stabilization, but in-the-field tests are hardly scientific and I'll run more diverse tests during a full review.

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Animal detection autofocus nailed sharp focus on the bear's eye (scroll for closeup) (Image credit: Future | Tim Coleman)Image 2 of 2

Animal detection autofocus nailed sharp focus on the bear's eye (Image credit: Future | Tim Coleman)

What you do get, though, is the best autofocus performance of any medium-format camera. Of course, being in a wildlife reserve I mainly stuck with the AI animal detection autofocus mode, and on the whole found it to be sticky and reliable, with visual confirmation that the subject's body and eye is being tracked. I have photos of bears with pin-sharp focus on the eyes (see above).

The Sony A7R V's autofocus is quicker and more intelligent, better able to recognize not just subjects but also its posture. In the low light of an enclosure I found the GFX100S II regularly mistook a gorilla's ear for its eye, whereas I'm sure the A7R V would've nailed it. There were also times that it simply couldn't autofocus at all through a fence, but these are challenging situations for any camera.

This scenario often tricked the GFX100S II's animal detection autofocus, which often mistook the gorilla's ear for an eye and therefore focused on the ear.  (Image credit: Future | Tim Coleman) Fujifilm GFX100S II: image and video quality

• Incredibly detailed photos
• ISO 80-12,800 sensitivity range can be expanded to ISO 40-102,400
• Only 4K / 30p video, but with internal 4:2:2 10-bit
• Slightly slower sensor readout than the 'HS' sensor in the GFX100 II
• 20 film simulations

You're buying a 102MP camera like the GFX100 II because detail matters, and you get it in spades – all 11648x8736 pixels of it. Those 4:3 aspect ratio images made with one of Fujifilm's sharp GF lenses are breathtakingly detailed, especially in good light. This camera is an absolute dream for landscape photography.

What's more, such detail gives you immense cropping power, effectively extending your lens, which proved super-handy with the 500mm lens shooting wildlife photography. You can see the full image of a bear in the gallery below and a cropped version of the same image, which would still look great blown up large on screen or print.

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I could crop tight on the gorilla from the full scene and still have pixels to spare. (Image credit: Future | Tim Coleman)Image 2 of 10

(Image credit: Future | Tim Coleman)Image 3 of 10

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The full picture. (Image credit: Future | Tim Coleman)Image 10 of 10

The kind of cropping that you can easily do with such a vast number of pixels. (Image credit: Future | Tim Coleman)

Image quality isn't just about detail – color matters, too, and I'm a fan of Fujifilm's straight-out-of-the-box standard color profile in this sensor format. Of course, it being Fujifilm you also get the full range of Film Simulations – color profiles inspired by Fujifilm's film, such as Astia and Velvia and most recently, Reala Ace.

I'm not sure how good image quality will be in low light, having just a few examples from my day with the camera. Photos of the gorilla in an enclosure (see below), shot at F5.6, 1/500sec and ISO 12,800, gave me the closest indicator, with detail not nearly as clean as when shooting at ISO 1600 or lower.

The GFX100S II has decent lenses to choose from – I've used a fair few GF lenses down the years and have always been impressed by their quality. They're quite capable of resolving intricate detail, but also of superbly controlling distortion and flare. 

At ISO 10,000, contrast is reduced and detail less clean, but for such big files is possible to mitigate the adverse impact of noise. (Image credit: Future | Tim Coleman)

We can't expect the GFX100S II to pack all the same features as its pricier sibling the GFX100 II, and filmmakers in particular will feel the compromises the most. Where the flagship model shoots 8K video, the GFX100S II only records 4K up to 30fps, with no slow-motion option. Still, it's not all bad news, because you can record in superior 10-bit 4:2:2 internally, plus output raw video to an external recorder.

Fujifilm told us that the sensor is a variation of the 'HS' sensor used in the GFX100 II, and its sensor readout is a little slower. This means more potential for rolling shutter in video and in fast action photos, which can look ugly. I'll be checking this out more when I get my hands on the camera again.

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Velvia Vivid Film Simulation (Image credit: Future | Tim Coleman)Image 2 of 5

Reala Ace Film Simulation (Image credit: Future | Tim Coleman)Image 3 of 5

Classic Negative Film Simulation (Image credit: Future | Tim Coleman)Image 4 of 5

Eterna Bleach Bypass Film Simulation (Image credit: Future | Tim Coleman)Image 5 of 5

Acros Film Simulation (Image credit: Future | Tim Coleman) How we tested the Fujifilm GFX100S II

• 24 hour period
• Mostly animal photography in a wildlife reserve
• Paired with the 100-200mm F5.6 and 500mm F5.6 lenses

I had the Fujifilm GFX100S II for a 24-hour period, during which time it was used extensively in a wildlife reserve taking pictures and videos of exotic animals large and small, out in the open and in enclosures, through foliage and with clear sight. 

The camera was paired with the GF 100-200mm F/5.6 and new GF 500mm F5.6 lenses and various focus modes employed including animal detection autofocus. 

First reviewed May 2024

Anker Soundcore Boom 2: Two-minute review

Anker Soundcore Boom 2 offers enough quality to get the party started, especially given its relatively low price. The chunky Bluetooth speaker’s main draw is its ability to plate up impactful deep bass tones, with its BassUp feature able to pump this up further. 

In addition, the Soundcore Boom 2 keeps pace with a number of pricier options among the best Bluetooth speakers when it comes to battery life, offering a playtime of up to 24 hours.

As a lower-cost option, however, the Boom 2 sometimes compromises on quality, with the mid-range and high frequencies lacking crisp definition, especially at louder volumes. It’s not exactly the best-looking Bluetooth speaker either, though its built-in Light Show feature with customizable settings may add a splash of excitement for some. 

One slightly disappointing aspect is the Soundcore Boom 2’s lack of a dustproof rating, despite Soundcore pitching it as a beachside companion. It is, however, waterproof and floatable, making it a worthy candidate for a pool party, and an option for those looking at the best waterproof speakers. Being boyant also means it's quite light in weight for a chunky speaker, which means it's portable – a big plus.

With Bluetooth 5.3 connectivity and simple button controls, the Boom 2 is super-easy to set up and operate. If you want to get more out of it, the free-to-download Soundcore app enables users to flick through Light Show options and calibrate EQ settings to their liking (which can help improve the sonic balance a lot). 

Despite some shortcomings when it comes to how it sounds, the Boom 2 has a decent amount of power. If you’re not overly concerned with top-quality audio and want a powerful Bluetooth speaker that can cut through loud background noise while being more portable than most of its direct competitors, the Boom 2 makes for a solid pick. For those who like a more rounded sound, the JBL Charge 5 is about the same price, and will give you that – but it lacks the same level of bass thump and the useful carry handle.

(Image credit: Future) Anker Soundcore Boom 2 review: Price and release date

• Released on March 6, 2024
• Price: $129.99 / £119.99 / AU$219.99

The Soundcore Boom 2 is well-priced for a larger portable wireless speaker, carrying an asking price of $129.99 / £119.99 / AU$219.99. That’s just $30 more than its predecessor, the Soundcore Motion Boom, despite the newer model offering double the output power (without BassUp enabled), new drivers, and more versatile multi-speaker pairing (via PartyCast 2.0).

By comparison, our highly recommended JBL Charge 5 can sometimes be found at around $10 more, so there are similarly affordable alternatives out there. For $70 / £42 (about AU$80) more, you could pick up the Tribit Stormbox Blast speaker, which is a bit bulkier, but offers awesome sound quality and still with buckets of bass.

Anker Soundcore Boom 2 review: Specs

(Image credit: Future) Anker Soundcore Boom 2 review: Features

• BassUp bass-boosting feature
• 24 hours of playtime
• Adjustable Light Show settings

The Soundcore Boom 2 houses a 50W subwoofer alongside two 15W tweeters, meaning that its output can hit 80W. However, this 80W output is only achievable when the Boom 2’s BassUp feature is activated, which serves up a “punchy bass” according to Soundcore. I’d agree here, to a degree; the Soundcore Boom 2 is clearly designed around delivering a solid deep bass listening experience – more on this later.

Utilizing the BassUp function doesn’t come without a downside, however, as it causes the Soundcore Boom 2’s playtime to deplete faster. For reference, the model has a playtime of up to 24 hours per charge, which is a good amount of time for a speaker of its size. I found that it took over five hours of playing music at 30% volume for it to drop 20% of its battery (as rated by the app, using its crude system of five battery bars – I would much prefer an actual percentage). It certainly appears to live up to its battery claims.

As is the case with BassUp, users should be warned that the Soundcore Boom 2’s Light Show option also drains battery faster – a feature which may not be to everyone’s tastes, although there is an option to switch it off entirely.

Light Show has seven settings: Energy, Fireworks, Flame, Flash, Lightning, Rainbow, and Wave. Each setting syncs with bass audio, which is more apparent with options such as Flame than with others, like Fireworks. The Soundcore app enables you to alter the colors used in each Light Show configuration, adjust brightness levels, or turn the LED lights off entirely. You can also switch between Light Show settings by holding the speaker’s BassUp button, which is a slightly hidden design choice, but works well regardless. 

Anker's Soundcore Boom 2 supports Bluetooth 5.3, which ensured that it was quick and easy to connect with both my Android phone and one of the best portable music players. Like many other similar Bluetooth speakers, the Soundcore Boom 2 also offers charging of a phone or other device through a USB-A port hidden beneath a rubber tab on its reverse side. Next to this is a USB-C port, which can be used to charge the speaker – note that you can’t charge another device from the USB-C port, which is a shame. The model comes with a USB-C to USB-C cable, which can fully recharge the Boom 2 in approximately 5.5 hours.

If you find yourself in a situation where you need to connect more than 100 Soundcore speakers at the same time, you’re in luck. The Soundcore Boom 2 has a PartyCast 2.0 feature, enabling it to sync its audio and light output with various other Soundcore speakers.

• Features score: 4/5

(Image credit: Future) Anker Soundcore Boom 2 review: Sound quality

• Impressive, booming bass
• Various vocal and instrumental elements can lack definition
• ‘Balanced’ EQ setting provides decent all-round experience 

The heavy kick of the Soundcore Boom 2’s deep bass means that it can hold its own at events with lots of background noise, such as outdoor parties or gatherings. When listening to Young Blood by The Naked and Famous, the Boom 2 delivered deep bass tones with substantial power, even without BassUp enabled.

Though it's still good value, the Boom 2’s low-end output isn’t perfect. When I listened to Black Eye by Allie X, the energetic bass bounce you’d anticipate from the opening is slightly lacking, especially when I compared it to the JBL Xtreme 4. The Boom 2 reaches deep, but it doesn’t connect the bass to the mid-range so well out of the box, leaving it feeling thin as it moves through the range of low-end frequencies.

Unfortunately, the Boom 2’s prominent bass can sometimes be overbearing, and at times the speaker’s deep bass output slightly drowned out vocal elements, for instance. This was apparent when listening to Moloko’s I Want You, when I was once again impressed by the bass output, but felt that it overshadowed the impact of several other instruments too heavily, preventing the complexity of the track from being fully realized. Unsurprisingly, this is exaggerated further with volume cranked up high, and even more with BassUp turned on, so I’d only recommend using this feature if you're really going for that pounding beat for a party, and aren't really worried about fidelity.

The Soundcore Boom 2’s clarity isn’t going to wow, with higher-pitched vocals and lower-toned guitars often lacking a touch of sharpness and definition. With a bit more sweetness to its sound, it could've been a really great speaker.

In fairness, some of these issues can be remedied somewhat via the Soundcore App, which enables users to switch from the default ‘Soundcore Signature’ EQ settings (where the midrange is given precious little limelight) to a ‘Balanced’ option, which delivers a decent all-round listening experience. The Soundcore app also has ‘Voice’ and ‘Treble Boost’ presets, as well as an option to adjust EQ levels manually. 

But while this all improves their balance in the mix, it doesn’t solve the deeper lack of detail. Voices and strings are simply less sweet, less real, than pricier large speakers.

• Sound quality score: 3.5/5

(Image credit: Future) Anker Soundcore Boom 2 review: Design

• Plastic exterior looks on the cheaper side
• Nice and lightweight
• Lacks a dustproof rating, although it’s waterproof and floatable

When it comes to style points, the Soundcore Boom 2 doesn’t score too highly, with its plastic casing looking a little on the basic side. The speaker is available in Adventure Green (the version I tested, and it's a nice color), Explorer Blue, and Phantom Black, all of which look clean enough, though may not appeal to those seeking a touch of pizzazz. The Boom 2’s drivers are protected by a rather budget-looking plastic covering decorated with the Soundcore logo. 

For the price, however, the Soundcore Boom 2 still looks the part for any outdoor event or party, sporting a solid attached handle and minimalistic yet simple button controls, which enabled a quick and easy setup. It also has four rubber feet at the base to provide grip, protect the speaker’s base from scratching against rough surfaces, and stop the bass vibration from moving it around.

Something I really liked about the Boom 2 is that it’s relatively light for its size, weighing in at 3.66lbs / 1.67kg. That’s far less hefty than comparable models such as the Tribit Stormbox Blast, which comes in at a weighty 11.6lbs / 5.3kg.

There’s something about the Soundcore Boom 2 that I found almost perplexing, however. The speaker’s packaging specifically bigs up its use at a beach setting, with much of the model’s online marketing similarly highlighting this. However, the speaker is only IPX7 certified, meaning it does not have a dustproof rating, unlike an IP67-rated model such as the JBL Charge 5.

This means the Soundcore Boom 2 may not be a prime pick for the beach after all, although the IPX7 rating does promise that the speaker can withstand being under 1m of water for 30 minutes without suffering any damage. The Boom 2 is also floatable, making it easily accessible in a pool (or maybe even a large bath). 

Naturally, I gave it a dunking – it floated well (on its side), and after being submerged underwater for around a minute it was still able to play audio to the same standard as before.

(Image credit: Future)

• Design score: 3.5/5

Anker Soundcore Boom 2 review: Value

• Low-priced for a larger Bluetooth speaker
• Despite imperfect sound, it will do the job for parties
• Large competitors often have higher list prices

The Soundcore Boom 2 may not be revolutionary, it may not deliver earth-shatteringly good audio, and it may not even woo the masses with elite design, but one thing’s for sure – it performs well in the value category. 

It’s not the cheapest Bluetooth speaker available, but given its larger size and solid bass output, it’s easily worth its $129.99 / £119.99 / AU$219.99 price tag. The Boom 2 provides everything essential for the average listener, especially when accounting for the adjustments available via the Soundcore app. 

Indeed, many speakers of a similar size go for much closer to the $200 / £150 / AU$300 mark. For instance, the JBL Charge 5 has an official price of $179.95 / £169.99 / AU$199.95 and the Sonos Roam comes in at $179 / £179 / AU$299. If you want a speaker with powerful, pumping outdoor sound at a lower cost, the Boom 2 is worth considering.

• Value score: 4/5

Should you buy the Anker Soundcore Boom 2? Buy it if... Don't buy it if... Anker Soundcore Boom 2 review: Also consider Anker Soundcore Boom 2 review: How I tested

• I used the speaker over the course of a week
• Mostly used in our music testing room in the TechRadar office
• I listened to a wide variety of music genres during each listening session

I spent hours testing the Soundcore Boom 2 with music, checking how easy the speaker was to set up and operate, tinkering with its various Light Show settings, and of course tuning into the quality of its audio output. 

While using the speaker, I listened to a range of tracks, including songs from TechRadar’s testing playlist. I had other speakers available to compare against, including the similarly sized JBL Xtreme 4. I connected both a Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 4 using Spotify and a Fiio M11S hi-res music player using Tidal, to put the Boom 2’s audio abilities to work.

Read more about how we test

• First reviewed: May 2024

SIMOptions is an eSIM marketplace that offers data plans for over 200 countries worldwide. The platform sells its own regional eSIM plans and eSIMs from local network providers in various countries. While our overall impression with this eSIM provider is positive, users should be aware of a few caveats.

SIMOptions is competitively priced, with multiple carrier options per location to choose from. However, there’s no way to customize an existing plan or top up your data if you run out while on a trip abroad. It’s a great option for multi-country trips, but single-destination users can find better options out there.

Our biggest gripe with SIMOptions is the unresponsive customer support, which, when combined with the number of technical issues users face during activation, can become quite a drawback for most users. Still, it may be a good fit for some users depending on the location they’re visiting.

SIMOptions: Plans and pricing

SIMOptions is an eSIM reseller, so its plans can differ in value depending on the network and region you purchase into. Here’s an overview of popular options: 

Make sure to compare prices with other providers before buying an eSIM. SIMOptions typically resell plans from other providers and networks at a more competitive price, but you should still do your diligence. 

SIMOptions: Features

SIMOptions offers a few distinct features to improve the user experience, here are the ones we liked the best during our time with it:

Carrier Options

One of SimOptions' most notable features is its extensive partnerships with local mobile operators worldwide. This allows them to provide a diverse array of eSIM plans from different carriers in each country, giving customers more options to choose from based on their specific needs and preferences.

Competitive Prices

SIMOptions is known for its budget-friendly eSIM plans, often undercutting the prices of other providers. For example, it offers 15-day data packages for all of Europe for as low as $14.90 USD, which is significantly cheaper than other providers and networks.

Affiliate Program

Another unique feature of SIMOptions is its affiliate program, which allows customers to earn commissions by referring others to purchase eSIMs. Whenever someone purchases a data plan from SIMOptions through your affiliate link, you get 10%. 

SIMOptions: Installation

(Image credit: SIMOptions)

To get started, simply visit SIMOptions’ website and select the eSIM package that suits your travel needs. The checkout process is quick and easy, requiring only your contact information, billing address, and payment details — no sign-up necessary. 

Once your payment is processed, you'll receive an email containing a QR code and instructions for installing the eSIM on your device. Activation is immediate upon installation, with the data plan switching on as soon as you reach your target destination.

However, SIMOptions requires you to go through the first-time activation process before you begin your trip, in the same country where you purchased your eSIM. Apart from that, the onboarding is user-friendly and there are plenty of resources to help you along.

SIMOptions: Coverage and speed

SIMOptions is a reseller marketplace that repackages eSIM plans from local telecom providers across 200+ countries. However, features, allowances, and network performance are not consistent across all locations and can differ based on your telecom network.

Because it offers no eSIM plans of its own, SIMOptions users regularly complain of issues like throttling, price hikes, and unresponsive support from individual network operators. Compared to other eSIM providers like Airalo or Holafly, SIMOptions falls short in almost every aspect. 

However, if you’re looking for a provider with complete carrier transparency, with the option to choose the exact telecom provider you want, this may be a good choice for you.

SIMOptions: Support

(Image credit: SIMOptions)

SIMOptions offers several customer support channels, including live chat, email (contact@simoptions.com), and phone (+1 6465862166). However, the quality and responsiveness of their support seem to be inconsistent.

SIMOptions claims to provide 24/7 customer service, but some reviewers have reported issues with getting timely responses or resolutions to their problems. In one case, a SIMOptions customer waited in the live chat queue for 20 minutes without receiving a response. Email support also appears to be hit-or-miss, with some customers receiving prompt replies and others being left without a resolution.

While it has a 4.3-star rating on TrustPilot, a closer inspection shows that SIMOptions has only replied to 6 out of 51 negative reviews, taking up to a week to respond. This suggests that the company is not quick to address customer complaints.

SIMOptions: Final verdict

SIMOptions is a good choice for budget-conscious travelers who prioritize wide country coverage and competitive pricing. With eSIM plans available for over 200 countries at affordable rates, it can provide significant savings compared to traditional roaming fees.

However, the inconsistent network performance and limited data allowances could be problematic for travelers who heavily rely on mobile data. Customer support is another concern, since getting a solution for your problem while on a foreign trip can be a real hit-or-miss experience.

SIMOptions: FAQs What is SIMOptions?

Founded in 2014, SimOptions is a global marketplace specializing in offering affordable prepaid eSIMs for international travelers. It partners with leading Mobile Network Operators (MNOs) to provide eSIM plans with data, voice, and SMS.  

Is the SIMOptions marketplace legit?

Despite some negative reviews, SIMOptions is a legitimate eSIM marketplace that has been around since 2014. While user experiences have been mixed due to the nature of the reseller marketplace, SIMOptions is a genuine provider of eSIM connections for international travelers.  

Where is SIMOptions based?

SIMOptions is headquartered in Central Hong Kong, but it provides eSIM plans to travelers around 200+ countries and regions.  

Laifen Wave: One-minute review

Suffice to say, Chinese brand Laifen is pretty excited to bring its latest device, the Laifen Wave, to market – especially following the success of its supersonic hairdryer, the Laifen Swift. Is it the best electric toothbrush? Not in my view; but it’s a very promising start, and for those who need frequent deep cleans, it could be everything they’ve been hoping for. 

Laifen has made some pretty bold claims about the efficacy of the Laifen Wave toothbrush, including that it “perfectly aligns with the dentist-recommended Bass brushing technique” and offers three times the power and brushing efficiency of a standard electric toothbrush. Based on my experience, that may be true – my teeth felt cleaner than ever after using the toothbrush. However, I’m not entirely convinced that this level of deep cleaning is necessary, nor healthy, on a daily basis.

The Laifen Wave offers 60-degree oscillation with 66,000 vibrations per minute, mimicking the motion of a regular non-electric toothbrush for what Laifen promises is a superior clean. You can set up three brushing profiles in the app, selecting between 10 levels of oscillation range and power, as well as vibration power. Plus, it has an average 30-day battery life, and takes only 2.5-3 hours to charge.

One thing is for certain, the Laifen Wave is a looker. It’s available in three different finishes: ABS plastic, aluminum alloy, and stainless steel. The toothbrush stands at 5.7in / 142.7mm tall, which is a little shorter than the majority of electric toothbrushes, but which makes it an excellent travel companion.

Laifen Wave review: Pricing

At the top of the handle sit three indicator lights that display the current mode selected, and just below these you’ll find the touch-sensitive power button. Towards the bottom sit an option for airplane mode and a battery indicator. 

I tested the stainless steel model, clad in a gorgeous shiny casing that certainly makes it the best-looking toothbrush I’ve ever used. Note that it does scuff easily, and is pretty slippery when wet, which could quickly result in a very scruffy-looking finish. 

The toothbrush heads are also a thing of beauty – well, as much as they can be. Elegant and slim, these heads are bespoke, although Philips Sonicare heads do fit, which is a real boon given you’ll be hard-pressed to find the Laifen Wave toothbrush heads in your local drugstore.

Out of the box, the Laifen Wave comes with three different toothbrush heads designed for different purposes: gum care, ultra-whitening and super clean. I found myself most drawn to the softer gum care brush head; but the super clean makes fantastic work of cleaning deeper into the recesses of your mouth, while the ultra-whitening brush head offers powerful cleaning to leave your grill gleaming. These can be purchased in packs of three or six directly from Laifen for $9.99 (about £8) and $16.99 (about £15) respectively. 

(Image credit: Future)

I don’t love the quality of the toothbrush heads; the bristles are great on all three heads, but they require some force to attach to the handle and can sometimes, rather inexplicably, become stuck. 

My stainless steel handle came with transparent heads instead of the white variant – which proved insightful. I noticed after not using the toothbrush for a week that a lot of condensation builds up inside the stem and inside the brush casing, which doesn’t feel particularly hygienic. 

This can happen in most toothbrush heads, but is easily rectified by removing them and shaking out any residue. However, with the Laifen Wave, not only is removing the head difficult, but it’s also supposedly watertight, meaning the water in the brush head either trickled down from the brush, or seeped in over time through the sealant. Neither bodes well for the brush design, or makes it terribly easy to prevent. 

Broadly speaking, though, I’ve been happy with the results, and I welcome the fact that the brush is customizable. 

After a super-quick and easy pairing process with its companion app, you can adjust the oscillation range and speed, as well as the vibration. You can also switch on flight mode, 30-second reminders, and even a high-frequency mode that unlocks a further 10 vibration strength settings. However, note that you need the app to really unlock most of these features. 

I did appreciate that you can set up different profiles and navigate between them by double-tapping the power button on the handle, though, as well as the ability to toggle flight mode by long-pressing the power button.

There are also some other clever features. When you pick up the toothbrush, it will turn on automatically. It will also activate its “backpack mode” when in motion for more than three minutes, which prevents battery wastage. That’s great; but some features I consider must-haves – such as pressure sensors – are missing. 

(Image credit: Future)

One thing that really ground my gears with the Laifen Wave is that, due to its oscillating head, it’s really easy to make a huge mess while brushing your teeth. I found that when I cleaned behind my lower-front teeth, the Laifen Wave flicked toothpaste and spit everywhere, meaning I was constantly cleaning up globs from all over my bathroom sink.

With the toothbrush heads being made of quite thick and robust plastic, I also learned the hard way that you really don’t want to nick your teeth while brushing. I was in physical pain for about 10 minutes one day having lost focus while brushing my teeth and catching the tip of my tooth with the back of the toothbrush head – I can’t say for sure, but I’m pretty sure I was close to chipping it. 

That alone was enough for me to think twice about recommending the Laifen Wave – which is a shame, since I think it shows a lot of promise and could be fantastic for those who struggle with gum health and plaque buildup. Right now, though, it just hasn’t been thought through quite enough.

Laifen Wave review: Specs Should I buy? Buy it if...  Don't buy it if... Also consider How I tested the Laifen Wave

•  I used the Laifen Wave as my main toothbrush for two months
•  I brushed my teeth twice a day  
•  I tried the different settings and toothbrush heads 

To test the Laifen Wave, I used it every day, twice a day, as my main toothbrush. While I settled on my personalized settings and favored brush head, I tried all of the different power settings and heads to see how effective they were in use.

I also tested all of the extra features – the smart-lifting technology, backpack mode, airplane mode and high-frequency mode – and found they all worked as described.

I’ve been reviewing lifestyle technology for two years, but like all readers, I’ve been brushing my teeth for a lot longer. I’ve used a variety of toothbrushes over the years, from budget-friendly to premium, and used this combined experience to rate the Laifen Wave.

Avast One Gold is a powerful security suite with a top-rated antivirus, web protection and a host of privacy extras. Top of the list is an unlimited VPN, but other welcome features include a firewall, device cleanup, tracker blocking, and a lengthy list of speed, privacy and protection tools.

Signing up gets you coverage for up to five devices, and there’s support for Windows, Mac, iOS and Android.

Avast One Gold is a very capable suite, broadly comparable to the likes of Bitdefender Premium Security or Norton 360 Deluxe. In this review we’ll look at everything it has to offer, and whether this could be the ideal security suite for you.

Avast One Gold is our pick of the Avast range. (Image credit: Future) Avast One Gold: Pricing

Avast One comes in four editions.

Avast One Basic is a Windows-only app with antivirus, web protection, a limited VPN and not much else.

Avast One Silver protects up to three Windows, Mac, Android and iOS devices, and adds an unlimited VPN along with a scattering of other features. It’s yours for $2.99 a month ($35.88 billed annually) in year one, $6.67 a month ($79.99 billed annually) on renewal.

Avast One Gold covers up to five devices and adds many more performance, privacy and security tools . It costs $6.99 a month ($83.88 billed annually) in year one, $14.99 a month ($179.99 billed annually) on renewal.

Avast One Premium is essentially Avast One Gold with full identity theft protection thrown in, including credit report monitoring and $2 million insurance. It’s more expensive at $9.99 a month in year one (a total of $119.88), $24.99 a month ($299.99 a year) on renewal, but then it does also cover 30 devices. Could be good value if you’ve a lot of hardware to protect.

Avast One Gold is within the price range we expect for a premium security suite, but some of the top competition are a little cheaper. Bitdefender Premium Security has a full VPN and covers up to ten devices, but it’s fractionally cheaper at $79.99 in year one, $159.99 on renewal. And Norton 360 Deluxe is the clear value leader, with a full VPN and five device support for only $49.99 in year one, $119.99 on renewal.

 Avast One’s apps have the same light and friendly interface on mobiles and desktops. (Image credit: Future) Avast One Gold: Getting started

Avast One installed easily on our test Windows laptop. The setup program ran a couple of scans to identify and remove any existing malware, and one reboot later, we were ready to go.

The Avast One interface has a colorful, friendly look, replacing dull Windows app icons and widgets with a light and airy design and a sprinkling of cartoon-like graphics (a running dog rather than a progress bar, for instance.)

The opening Avast One screen has a handy button to launch a Smart Scan, while other tiles include buttons to enable or disable the VPN, delete your browser history, clear your hard drive, optimize your running processes, and more.

An Explore button displays icons for many other features: the web shield to protect your browsing, email guardian to monitor local and webmail messages for dangerous links, a firewall, webcam protection, dark web monitoring, the software updater to find missing security patches, and more. 

 Avast One explains the basics of each feature when you select it for the first time. (Image credit: Future)

Choose an option for the first time and Avast One usually displays a simple tutorial page; a screenshot of the image with notes explaining what to do. It’s a smart way to help explain the very basics for security newbies.

Mostly, the Avast One interface works very well. It’s simple enough for beginners to use right away, yet also makes it reasonably straightforward for experts to find the options they need.

(Image credit: Future) Avast One Gold: Antivirus Lab Test Results

Although we put every antivirus app we review through our own series of tests, we also pay close attention to results from the big antivirus testing labs.

We follow nine tests from labs including AV-Comparatives (Real-World Protection, Malware Protection, Android, Anti-Phishing, Performance), AV-Test (Windows, Android), MRG Effitas (360° Protection Testing) and SE Labs (Endpoint Security Home).

Each test has its own scoring system, making it tricky to compare performance. To address this, we use a special algorithm which (as long as an app is in at least five tests) converts the various results into a single summary score from zero to 10 representing the vendor’s overall rating.

Avast’s combined score was an excellent 9.98, putting it in first place, just ahead of Bitdefender (9.97), Avira (9.96) and F-Secure (9.96.)

Avast did this by appearing in all nine of the tests we monitor, too, the only provider to manage that, and giving us even more confidence that this is a reliable measure of Avast’s abilities.

All the labs agree Avast delivers well above average malware protection. (Image credit: Future)

No antivirus provider excels at everything, and Avast does have one or two weaker points. Bitdefender beat it into second place for anti-phishing, for instance, and ESET and Bitdefender outperformed Avast in the last Advanced Threat Protection report (a measure of how well an antivirus can block more complex and sophisticated attacks.)

Reaching ‘only’ second place for anti-phishing isn’t exactly a problem, though, and Avast more than makes up for that with first (or equal first) places in the Real-World Protection, Malware Protection, Android (AV-Test), MRG Effitas and SE Labs reports.

Put it all together and the message is clear: whatever threat your device encounters, Avast has some of the best tools around to keep you safe.

Avast One runs an in-depth scan on every app it doesn’t recognize. (Image credit: Future) Avast One Gold: Tough on brand new files

Avast One automatically scans files as you open or launch them, allowing it to detect most threats before they can cause any harm. That’s good, but Avast does have one feature which could be annoying.

If you launch an app Avast hasn’t seen before, Avast One typically pauses the app and leaves you waiting for 15-60 seconds while it analyses the file for threats. During the review, we had a couple of occasions where Avast couldn’t decide whether an app was dangerous or not, so sent the file to its Threat Labs and blocked it from running until it got a verdict back (which could take a few hours.)

This can be a real hassle if, say, you’ve just downloaded a new installer which you’re 100% sure is safe. It’s also far more intrusive than many competitors. For example, if Avira doesn’t recognize a file, it generally just tells you that and asks if you’d like to run it anyway.

But, there’s no doubt Avast’s approach is more secure. If you’re the type of user who will run into this situation all the time - you’re a developer building your own projects, say - this might be so annoying that you decide to turn the feature off. But for everyone else, Avast just about earns a thumbs up for its tough security-first design.

Scan files, folders or your whole system whenever you like. (Image credit: Future) Avast One Gold: Antivirus scanning

Avast One offers various types of on-demand scan to check everything from a single file to an entire hard drive for potential danger.

The default Smart Scan quickly checks the most commonly-infected areas for malware, identifies security vulnerabilities and even helps free up drive space by highlighting junk files that can safely be deleted.

On our test device, Smart Scan completed in around a minute, but still managed to find two relevant security settings issues (Data Execution Prevention not turned on and notifications visible on our lock screen), and noticed a couple of desktop text files stuffed with phishing links.

Avast can also scan selected files, folders or drives from Explorer (right-click and choose ‘Scan selected items for viruses’.) There’s a Deep Scan option to check your entire system, a Boot-Time Scan to look for threats before Windows boots (valuable for catching stealthy threats), and even a Custom Scan feature to define your own checks. 

You can schedule scans to run automatically when you’re not around. (Image credit: Future)

Scanning speeds aren’t the best. Avast scanned 50GB+ of test executables in around 35 minutes, while Norton took 32 minutes and Avira required 26:30. Bitdefender was fractionally slower at 37 minutes on its first run, but because it only scans new or changed files by default, this dropped to 30 seconds on the second scan. Avast stayed at around 35 minutes for subsequent scans.

This shouldn’t be an issue for most users, though, because it generally isn’t necessary to run regular on-demand scans. Overall, Avast scores well on scanning for delivering several scan types, and giving you plenty of options to create scans of your own and automatically run them whenever you like.

(Image credit: Future) Avast One Gold: Password-protected files

Scanning archives presents all kinds of issues for antivirus, so we pay close attention to how each app handles these situations. Avast One scored for recognizing common archive formats and not being tricked by zip bombs (archives within archives within archives), but it’s not so great at handling password-protected files: it just ignores them. And that’s a concern.

Suppose a work colleague gives you a bunch of files to share with others, and one of those is a password-protected zip which (unknown to you) is infected with malware. You scan the folder with Avast One, it checks the files it can open, ignores the password-protected file that it can’t, and says ‘we didn’t find any viruses.’ You’ll assume that means all the files are clean, when that simply isn’t true.

Bitdefender handles this much better. If it finds a file is password-protected, Bitdefender prompts you for the password. If you don’t know what it is, you’re warned about any skipped files in the scan report. Instead of Avast’s ‘we didn’t find anything’, Bitdefender tells you ‘we didn’t find anything (but we couldn’t look here)’, a potentially very important extra detail.

This may not have much, perhaps any real-world impact on your security. Once you unzip your archive with the password, Avast One should automatically detect any threats as they’re written to your drive. But there is still scope for problems, especially if you send the archive to someone else without unpacking it yourself.

Avast One Ransomware Protection prevents unauthorised apps changing your files unless you give permission. (Image credit: Future) Avast One Gold: Anti-ransomware

Ransomware is one of the most dangerous threats around, with Sophos’ latest ‘State of Ransomware’ report finding that 59% of organizations had experienced an attack in the last year.

We test an antivirus’ ransomware-fighting abilities by pitting the app against our own simple ransomware simulator. Avast scored well initially, detecting our simulator before it was able to run. But the bad news is once we made a small change to the simulator code, Avast didn’t recognise the file as a threat, and it was able to encrypt 3GB+ of user documents without any issues.

Although that’s not good news, Avast scores very highly when measured against genuine ransomware. MRG Effitas’ latest Ransomware tests pitted Avast against 37 ransomware samples, and it blocked every one.

It’s not just about detection. Avast One also has an extra layer of protection which prevents untrusted apps from modifying files in specific folders. This protects your desktop, Documents, Pictures, Videos and Music folders by default, and you can easily apply it to others. 

We turned this extra protective layer on for the test folder, and Avast wouldn’t allow the simulator to modify any files unless we gave permission.  That doesn’t completely solve the problem, because Avast still didn’t recognize our simulator as dangerous; it was able to keep running, and could try to carry out other compromising tasks. But this is still a useful extra feature which may protect your system from brand new ransomware threats.

Avast One blocks more phishing sites than most of the competition. (Image credit: Future) Avast One Gold: Anti-phishing

The best security apps don’t just block threats as they arrive: they prevent you ever accessing them in the first place. That’s why we’re always very interested in an app’s ability to keep you safe from phishing and other malicious websites.

The independent labs don’t pay much attention to phishing, but AV-Comparatives does have a small annual test with a handful of providers. The last report gave Avast a decent detection rate of 94%, just behind Bitdefender (96%), but outperforming ESET (92%) and Avira (88%.)

We ran a test of our own, and attempted to access 100 brand new phishing URLs on an Avast-protected system. Avast’s protection rate was very similar at 93%, but others did better; Norton reached 95%, Bitdefender 96%, and Avira led the way with a perfect 100%.

We also compared Avast’s results with Chrome, giving us a better idea of how much additional protection it offered. The results were very positive: Chrome only detected 65% of our test threats, so Avast identified an additional 28%. And in some extra good news, Chrome detected all seven of the phishing sites Avast missed, which means using Avast and Chrome together would block 100% of our sample threats.

 Top benchmark PCMark showed Avast didn’t significantly slow down our test device. (Image credit: Future) Avast One Gold Performance impact

Detection rates and threat blocking stats are important, but there’s another factor to consider. The best antivirus apps keep you safe without slowing your device down, raising false alarms or otherwise interfering with your day.

AV-Comparatives’ Performance Test measures the performance impact of 16 antivirus apps on tasks including browsing websites, downloading files, and installing and launching applications. Avast had no significant impact on any area, earning the company an excellent equal third with Avira, just behind ESET and McAfee. 

We used the excellent PCMark benchmark to measure every aspect of our review laptop performance, and it delivered even better results. Although there’s only a tiny difference between the top providers, Avast One still beat Bitdefender, Norton and Avira for its minimal speed impact.

Antivirus can also slow you down by raising false alarms, making it more difficult to download or install legitimate apps. Avast isn’t quite the best around, but it has fewer than most, reaching equal third in AV-Comparatives’ False Alarm test behind Trend Micro and Bitdefender. 

Email Guardian can scan both local and webmail messages for malware. (Image credit: Future) Avast One Gold: Email Guardian

Email Guardian scans your incoming and outgoing emails for dangerous attachments. Most antivirus apps do something similar, but what’s different here is Email Guardian doesn’t just protect local email service like Outlook: it can also optionally monitor webmail accounts, filtering messages in the cloud to protect you from incoming threats.

We tried adding a Gmail account, and it worked much like adding an extension to most web services: Google explained Avast was asking to access our emails, we gave permission, and that was that. Easy.

While that’s a definite protection plus, it does also require giving your email address, account details and full email access to Avast. If you want to preserve the maximum possible privacy, that might be a step too far. But if it’s not a problem for you, Email Guardian is simple to set up and works with Gmail, Outlook, AOL, Comcast, GMX, Mail.ru, Seznam, Web.de, Yahoo and Yandex accounts.

Avast One’s firewall is very short on features. (Image credit: Future) Avast One Gold: Firewall

Avast’s Firewall monitors incoming and outgoing traffic to prevent hackers accessing your device, or malware sending your personal information to the outside world.

This isn’t the traditional expert-level firewall software provided by Bitdefender or Norton, where you can fine-tune network traffic by setting up complex rules (block or allow traffic by protocol, port and more.)

Instead, Avast One generally makes its own decisions about which traffic to block. We were able to view a history of recently blocked traffic in the firewall window, but there’s no option to tweak this behavior in future, no way to say ‘please allow the connection next time.’

The firewall does allow you to choose processes which then won’t be able to access the internet. That could be useful if an app uses too much data, say, but isn’t as helpful for security. (If you don’t trust an app then you should uninstall it, not just block its web access.)

Put it all together and the firewall follows the same pattern as many Avast One features. It could be useful in a few situations, but it’s not as powerful as similar tools from the top competition. And as long as Avast still detected and blocked malicious apps in the background, you wouldn’t miss the firewall window if it wasn’t there.

Avast One Secure VPN is easy to use, though a little basic. (Image credit: Future) Avast One Gold: Avast SecureLine VPN

Avast SecureLine VPN protects your identity and traffic just like any specialist VPN service, but it aims to be much easier to use. There’s no display of IP addresses or other cryptic networking details, no real complexities at all: just a switch on the main Avast One dashboard to connect to the VPN when you need it, and disconnect when you don’t.

There’s a version of the VPN available in the free Avast One Basic. This looks better than most, thanks to a generous 5GB data allowance a week, but beware. You can’t choose your location (the app automatically chooses the nearest server), and there’s no access to settings, so you can’t enable the kill switch.

Fortunately, Avast One Silver and Gold include the full and unlimited VPN. There are no data limits or settings restrictions, and you get access to Avast’s network of 59 cities across 37 countries. That might be enough for your needs (and it beats Norton VPN’s 29 countries), but Bitdefender offers 53 countries, and many specialist VPN providers have 80 countries and more.

(Image credit: Future) Avast One Gold: VPN Features

Avast’s VPN settings are a little limited. There’s no ability to choose a protocol  (the app supports WireGuard and OpenVPN, but decides the best option itself), and no split tunneling or other more advanced features.

The app does have a kill switch, and it worked reasonably well in testing. When we closed the Avast process responsible for the WireGuard connection, for instance, our internet was blocked immediately, the app notified us that it was reconnecting, and we were back online, VPN restored, in a couple of seconds.

The VPNauto-connect feature looked interesting, but didn’t work reliably for us. (Image credit: Future)

An unusual auto-connect feature can automatically turn on the VPN when you access banking sites, when you’re shopping, streaming, torrenting and more. Bitdefender has something similar, and it’s potentially very useful, as it reduces the chance that you’ll forget to turn on the VPN at a sensitive site.

Unfortunately, Avast’s version just didn’t work as expected. It mis-labelled some sites, for example warning us to enable the VPN for banking when we visited the genealogy site Ancestry.com or the UK property site Rightmove. It didn’t work at all with many popular UK streaming sites, and then it simply stopped working, for no apparent reason, and wouldn’t auto-connect for any site we tried. We don’t know how common this might be, but if you can’t rely on auto-connect working whenever you need it, then the feature really isn’t much use at all.

Avast One VPN speeds varied quite a bit, but were generally very acceptable. The free version managed 70-220Mbps, for instance, more than enough for any task, and the unlimited VPN peaked at around 800Mbps.

Avast’s VPN didn’t unblock exclusive Netflix content in any of the regions we tried. (Image credit: Future)

Unblocking results were poor. Avast couldn’t get us into Netflix in the US, UK, Australia, Canada or Japan, for instance. It also failed with BBC iPlayer, ITV and Channel 4. 

Avast did score one success in Australia, where we were able to access 9Now. But most VPNs do the same, and Avast couldn’t unblock the far better defended 10Play.

Although Avast clearly isn’t a great VPN, it delivers just-about-acceptable results on privacy at least, especially for the price you’re paying. NordVPN is our top-rated VPN, for instance, but its one-year Basic plan costs $68.85; Avast Silver only costs $35.88 in year one, and that’s the VPN, antivirus and a full security suite, too.

Webcam Protection aims to stop malicious apps secretly grabbing webcam images. (Image credit: Future) Avast One Gold: Webcam Protection

Webcam Protection prevents webcam hijacking by preventing untrusted apps from using your camera unless you give permission. Or if you rarely use your webcam, there’s a more extreme option to turn it off for everyone.

This mostly worked as expected. We ran several custom apps to grab webcam images and audio; Avast One recognised which were trusted and which weren’t, asked if the app was safe, and didn’t allow access if we clicked the ‘Block’ button.

We noticed that if we simply closed the ‘Block or Allow?’ box, though, without clicking either option, Avast allowed the app to access our device. That’s potentially unsafe if, say, the user is in a hurry and closes the box without properly reading it. We prefer this kind of tool to block apps by default, and only permit access if the user specifically clicks the Allow button.

(Image credit: Future) Avast One Gold: Sensitive Data Shield

The Sensitive Data Shield can limit access to confidential documents to specific apps or other user accounts on your PC. It works, but protection is limited to PDFs and documents in Office format, and if someone can access the device using your account then they can also access your files as usual. If you need to protect key files, save them using an encrypted storage service such as NordLocker or Microsoft OneDrive’s Personal Vault, and they’ll provide far better protection.

Avast One is great at detecting malware - but that’s just the start. (Image credit: Future) Avast One Gold: Bonus Protection Tools

Avast One’s Device Protection menu looks impressive, initially, with no less than 15 tools. This isn’t as good as you might think, because Avast has padded the list out by giving related features their own menu entry (virus and email scanning and quarantine take up four menu options, for instance.) But we’re looked at valuable tools like anti-phishing, firewall and ransomware protection already, and there are other interesting features here.

The Sandbox allows you to run untrusted apps in an isolated environment where they can’t change files, modify system settings or generally damage your system.

A sandbox can be handy for expert users who understand how they work, but they have their limits. This one allows apps to access the internet by default, for instance, so if an app steals some passwords and sends them home, the sandbox won’t help (you can turn off internet access in settings, but then some apps may not work at all.) In general, if you don’t trust an app then the answer isn’t to run it in the sandbox: it’s not to run it at all.

The Network Inspector checks every network you access for security issue. (Image credit: Future)

Network Inspector is a feature which automatically scans new networks for vulnerabilities every time you connect to them. That’s good to know, but it’s difficult to usefully test this kind of feature, and we can’t be sure how effective Network Inspector might be.

Avast One’s Web Hijack Guard blocks DNS hijacking attacks, where a hacker redirects you from the banking or shopping site you need, to a malicious clone which then steals your details.

Web Hijack Guard works by routing DNS requests through an encrypted connection to Avast’s own secure DNS server. That does offer some protection, but it might conflict with VPNs, which also try to redirect your DNS. If your VPN offers DNS-based web content blocking, for instance, this won’t work if Avast grabs your DNS instead.

Do you store passwords in your browser? Malware may try to steal them, but Avast’s Password Protection can help. (Image credit: Future)

Finally, Avast’s Password Protection prevents apps accessing passwords stored in Chrome, Edge or Firefox, unless you give permission. We ran an app to read our Chrome passwords, and, sure enough, Avast One raised an alert. It’s a small feature, but an unusual one we rarely see elsewhere, and we’re happy it’s included here.

Access banking and other sensitive sites in a secure and isolated (-ish) browser. (Image credit: Future) Avast One Gold: Bank Mode

Avast’s Bank Mode is a custom Chrome-based browser which runs in its own virtual desktop, isolated from the rest of your system. Access banking or other sensitive sites using Bank Mode, and even if malware is running on your system, it shouldn’t be able to grab screenshots, log keypresses or otherwise see what you’re doing.

Avast didn’t automatically prompt us to use Bank Mode when we visited a few banking sites, unlike Bitdefender and its similar Safepay feature. We launched it manually, and were surprised to see Bank Mode automatically install (though not activate) a host of Chrome extensions, including some from other vendors: Avira Browser Safety, Password Manager and Safe Shopping; Kaspersky Protection; Malwarebytes Browser Guard; McAfee Web Boost; even NordVPN and PureVPN Chrome extensions.

(Image credit: Future)

There may have been others, too; Chrome displayed an ‘Error’ message after installing these addons, though it wasn’t clear why. This isn’t as bad as it sounds, because although these extensions were installed, they weren’t activated, they wouldn’t run any code unless you manually turned them on. Still, it seems odd to create an environment which you want to be isolated from other processes, but then fill that environment with all kinds of apps from assorted vendors. 

The core of Bank Mode works reasonably well. We launched it with a click, and browsed as usual. A commercial keylogger (and our own custom logger) weren’t able to record our keypresses, and a screenshot tool wasn’t able to take images of Bank Mode activity. 

Overall, we suspect most users won’t see enough benefit from the likes of Bank Mode or Safepay to justify the hassle of using a separate secure browser. If you feel you need that extra protection, we think Bitdefender’s Safepay is a little, well, safer. But Avast One’s Bank Mode is more convenient to use, and adds some useful extra layers of protection. 

Clear all your browser histories with one click. (Image credit: Future) Avast One Gold: More Privacy Tools

Avast One includes a number of smaller features which aim to protect your privacy online.

Tracking Prevention randomises your device fingerprint, preventing sites tracking you with browser fingerprinting. It doesn’t need any configuration: just install Avast One Gold and it goes to work right away. Avast warns that the technology might cause issues with some websites, though, and there’s no way to add those as exceptions. If there are problems, all you can do is turn Tracking Prevention off entirely.

Clear Browsing Data is a one-stop tool which allows you to delete all your browser histories with one click. It displayed the total space taken by the least important Chrome, Firefox and Edge data on our review PC, and deleted all of it when we clicked ‘Remove.’

Sensible default settings mean Clear Browsing Data deletes tracking cookies and your browser cache, but not regular cookies or your browser history. That’s good to see, and means you’ll stay logged into most websites when the wiping is complete. But there are plenty of free cleanup tools around which do a lot more, and even Avast’s CCleaner includes many extra cleaning tools and configuration options.

Private Mode improves your browsing privacy by connecting to the VPN, enabling tracking protection and opening your browser in Incognito mode. This might make you a little safer, but it took us four clicks to open from Avast’s dashboard: in real world use, we would probably just enable the VPN and private browsing when we needed it, in the normal way.

(Image credit: Future)

Dark Web Monitoring checks your email address to see if it’s been included in a data breach, or - if you provide your email to create an Avast account - regularly monitors the address and raises an alert if it appears in a new breach.

While this can be interesting, most of the breaches for our email address were ancient history, with some ten or more years old. You can get much the same information for free at Have I Been Pwned. 

Simple tutorials explain how to optimize your privacy with WhatsApp, Facebook, Instagram and more. (Image credit: Future)

The Privacy Advisor sounds more promising, with details on how to optimize privacy settings for Google, Facebook, Twitter/ X, Amazon, Instagram, Linkedin and YouTube, as well as a handful of Android and iOS apps (WhatsApp, YouTube, Instagram, Tiktok, Messenger.)

Privacy Advisor can’t automate these changes, unfortunately. Instead it displays step-by-step tutorials on how to find whatever settings you might want to tweak. 

The guides are well presented, with screenshots and occasional buttons to open the right settings page. But some of the advice didn’t match what we saw on our accounts - settings text had changed, maybe a setting was in a different place - and we had to do a little more work to hunt down the right option.

Avast One has a handful of tools which might be able to speed up your device. (Image credit: Future) Avast One Gold: Performance Tools

Early Windows antivirus apps often hit PC performance, reducing device speeds to a crawl. It’s very different these days - developers are smarter, hardware is much faster - but Avast and others still include speedup features to try and compensate for any slowdown.

Driver Updater finds and installs missing device driver updates. In theory this could be a good idea, optimizing performance and highlighting missing security patches, but there are dangers. If Avast One makes a single error in the update process, it could break your PC to the point that it won’t even boot. Avast One has no built-in way to undo driver changes, either, so you’re left to rely on System Restore or other Windows recovery options.

Driver Updater does still have some value. If nothing else, just seeing that, say, your webcam has a really outdated driver could be helpful if it’s misbehaving. But it’s best to use it, well, cautiously.

(Image credit: Future) Avast One Gold: PC Speedup

Avast’s PC Speedup is a clever tool which optimizes PC performance by reducing the number of processes running in the background. The less resources these processes use, the more your main apps will get.

We ran PC Speedup, and it listed 35 processes that were running in the background of our review laptop, along with an estimate of their impact on performance. Clicking a ‘Details’ link displayed brief details on what the process does, and an Optimise button prevented the process using resources until we opened it.

Using PC Speedup properly requires a lot of work. In our case, we would have to work through all 35 processes, read the Details page, maybe Google for the process, try to decide if it was suitable for optimisation, or not. Many of our 35 processes were important - software updaters, our backup service - and optimising the wrong process could cause all kinds of unexpected problems. (Including security issues, if we stopped getting updates.)

PC Speedup is an interesting feature which could make a real performance difference to some systems. But, it’s not for non-technical types, and you’ll need plenty of time and PC knowledge to use the tool safely.

Disk Cleaner can free up huge amounts of storage space, but beware - there’s sometimes a catch. (Image credit: Future) Avast One Gold: Disk Cleaner

As the name suggests, Disk Cleaner helps free up storage space by identifying junk files that can safely be deleted.

The tool told us it could recover a huge 34.1GB, but that’s largely because it included 12GB+ of old Restore Points, there was 14GB of data in the Recycle Bin, and it suggested clearing out the Downloads folder.

In theory you can view Disk Cleaner’s chosen files and decide whether to delete them or not, but poor design makes this tricky. Most similar tools clearly identify the applications they’re cleaning, so you can easily choose to wipe Chrome’s history, Google Earth’s cache, and so on. But Avast displays generic titles like ‘Program Backup Files’, ‘Program Cache Files’ and ‘Program Log Files’, for instance. If you don’t want to delete Google Earth files, you must choose each section in turn and scroll through potentially thousands of files to find what you need.

We think Avira Prime’s Power Cleaner is a much better tool. It did a much better job of cleaning up leftover Windows and application junk, finding 31.7GB it could delete (and that didn’t include System Restore points), and it’s much easier to decide what to keep and what to dump.

Avast One for Mac has much the same appealing interface as Windows (but with a few less features. (Image credit: Future) Avast One Gold: Avast One for Mac

We were impressed by Avast One’s antivirus performance on Windows, but Mac users get even better protection: both AV-Comparatives and AV-Test gave Avast 100% for protection in their last Mac tests.

The app looks great, with the same clean and friendly interface as the Windows edition. Tap the Explore icon on the left and everything you need is just a click or two away.

We found the Avast app easy to use, and it generally performed well in our tests. One exception was the VPN’s auto-connect feature, which proved just as flaky as on Windows. When we turned it on for streaming, for instance, it worked initially for Netflix, but did nothing when we tried the site later, and entirely ignored BBC iPlayer and Disney Plus. Not an option we can recommend.

Avast One for Mac is a little short on features. It has the core antivirus, ransomware, email and web protection, along with the unlimited VPN and dark web monitoring. But the firewall, sandbox, Bank Mode, webcam protection and other Windows features haven’t made it to the Mac. And some tools are less powerful than their Windows cousins (there’s no kill switch with the Mac VPN.)

Overall, Avast One for Mac scores for its excellent malware protection and unlimited VPN. If you don’t need the VPN, though, Avast One Free might be enough for you. And if it’s power you’re after, Norton 360 for Mac has a firewall, webcam protection, cloud backup and even parental controls. (Oh, and it’s cheaper, too.)

Antivirus, VPN and extra privacy protection for your Android device. (Image credit: Future) Avast One Gold: Avast One for Android

Avast One for Android may not have all the features we found on Windows, but it includes the protection essentials, and throws in one or two mobile-friendly extras for good measure.

Avast’s Android malware protection is accurate and reliable, scoring 100% for both well-known and zero day threats in AV-Test’s last report, for instance. That puts it equal first in the protection charts along with Norton, Bitdefender and Trend Micro, and fractionally ahead of Avira, F-Secure and McAfee.

As with Avast One on the desktop, there’s a VPN, too. Free users can’t choose their location and are limited to 5GB data a week (though that’s still generous for a free VPN), but signing up for Avast One Gold drops the restrictions and sees you able to use the service as much as you like.

The app includes Avast One’s capable web, anti-phishing and email protection, and has a handful of the features we’ve discussed above: data breaching monitoring alerts you if your email appears on the dark web, for instance, while Privacy Insights explains how to secure various apps and web accounts, and Performance Center helps you find and delete junk files.

There are one or two features you won’t find on Windows. App Lock allows you to lock individual apps with a PIN, password or fingerprint; App Insights shows you which apps use what permissions, and Photo Vault can prevent others viewing certain photos unless they have the PIN.

You won’t be overwhelmed with Avast One’s Android abilities, but it does a solid job of protecting your device

We like the VPN and web protection, but otherwise Avast’s iOS app doesn’t offer much. (Image credit: Future) Avast One Gold: Avast One for iOS

Avast One’s iOS edition is the most basic in the range, as we see with most security suites. But there’s still worthwhile protection from malicious links in your browser and emails, while the unlimited VPN keeps your internet traffic safe from snoopers.

A handful of extras include dark web monitoring to warn you if your details appear in a data breach, and an option to keep photos hidden in an encrypted folder that only you can access. These work as advertised, but they’re not outstanding in any way, and there are better apps and services you can use for free.

The app looks good and has the same visual style as the rest of the range, though with some odd design differences. VPN locations on iOS are grouped by continent, for instance; on Windows, they’re in one big alphabetically-sorted list; and on Android, they’re a jumbled mess. That might be confusing if you’re using Avast One on several platforms, and it’s surely not that difficult to fix. If you generally just hit ‘On’ to access your nearest server then you may never notice, though, and in general the app is easy to use.

Overall, Avast One for iOS is a decent security app, but it’s exactly overflowing with features. If you don’t need the unlimited VPN, the free Avast One Basic may be enough. There’s no Email Guardian to highlight malicious links in your emails, but you get the same browsing protection, and although the free VPN doesn’t allow changing location, its 5GB a week data allowance is far more generous than most.

Avast One Gold: Final verdict

Avast One Gold has some of the best malware protection around and a stack of protection, privacy and performance features, but it also has a couple of problems. If your needs are simple, Avast One Basic gives you very similar protection for free; and if you’re after power, Bitdefender and Norton have suites with excellent antivirus, full VPNs and even more security features to explore. Avast One is still worth a look, but test the free version before you buy. 

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