TechRadar Reviews

AndaSeat Xtreme Series Standing Desk: one-minute review

As a first attempt at a budget-oriented standing gaming desk, there are certainly positives for AndaSeat to draw on here. Still, it's clear it could use some refinement moving forward, and in some areas, it does feel rather rushed. Before we get to the bad, let's cover the feature set, shall we?

As standard, you get solid height adjustment ranging from 28.7in to 46.1in (73 - 117cm), multiple width options, with both 47.2in (120cm) and 55in (140cm) variants available, and a choice of colors too (black and white, albeit the white variant is only available at that larger size).

AndaSeat's also included a digital display and control panel (super easy to use), which comes with three separate profiles you configure and save multiple heights on.

Cable management on the whole is a bit of a mixed bag, although there is a cable caddy fixed to the back of the desk below where the monitor would sit, for UK and US plugs. The gaps between it and the desktop, when fully installed, are too tight to actually thread them through.

If you're plugging or unplugging devices into an extension lead back here, you're going to effectively need to unscrew it from the desk before you can do that. That's a shame because AndaSeat's included a metric ton of cable management adhesive tie-off points and cable ties, too, to help with your clean desk endeavors. Oh, and you get, well, a plastic cup holder and a headphone stand that you can screw to it, and that's about it.

Overall design is a mixed bag. It's not entirely square like most modern desks, but actually leans into an older, early 2010s office vibe, with this curved front, which, although perhaps more ergonomic, looks slightly dated in contrast to the cleaner, sharper aesthetic of more modern alternatives. There's also a cutout behind the monitor to allow you to run cables through, which is a nice touch, but that front arch may put many off, as it does make it stand out in a more modern office environment.

The biggest win, though? The price. At $500 US for the white 55-inch variant, and $400 for the smaller 47-inch, it's one of the most affordable standing desks on the market, at least one that's purposely designed for gaming anyway.

(Image credit: Future)AndaSeat Xtreme Series Standing Desk review: Price and Availability

• Costs $400 / $500, around £297 / £370, or AU$562 / AU$703
• Currently only available via AndaSeat's webstore in the US
• Multiple sizes and black/white versions available

Right now the Xtreme series is only available for purchase via AndaSeat's webstore directly, it comes in two sizes currently, either the 47.2in (1.20cm), or 55.1in (140cm), although if you look in AndaSeat's instruction manual for the Xtreme series, there's also mention of a 63in (160cm) version listed too, so I suspect that'll land with us sometime in the future.

This is actually one of the cheapest standing desks out there, specifically designed for gaming, beating out the likes of Corsair's Platform:4 series (which starts at $700), and Eureka's Ergonomic GTG as well ($600). Although it's worth mentioning that both of those do have quite a few more extras than the Xtreme line does here.

AndaSeat Xtreme Series Standing Desk review: specs

Price

$400/$500 around £297/£370, or AU$562/AU$703

Height

28.7in / 73cm (up to 46.1in / 117cm)

Load capacity

154lbs / 70kg

Material

Cold-formed Steel, Laminated MDF

Dimensions

47.2 x 29.5in (120 x 75cm) or 55.1 x 29.5in (140 x 75cm)

Noise level

<50db

AndaSeat Xtreme Series Standing Desk review: design and features

• Solid build quality
• Easy(ish) assembly, but could be easier
• Some features need a rethink

Standing desks are inherently fraught products to launch. It's a difficult market to break into. Not only is it a niche within a niche, but competition is so tight these days that you really do need to bring something special to the table.

When Corsair first launched its Platform line, it was all about those added extras, monitor arms, Elgato support, and all the bells and whistles you'd expect from a company like that. Secretlab came in with all the RGB you could imagine, and Eureka had that funky, curved, angled, glass top thing that you either love or hate (or smash in one bad Valorant run).

AndaSeat's offering is markedly different. The added extras are relatively minimal; in fact, in many ways, it does feel like the company grabbed a Desktronics HomeOne standing desk frame, popped its branding on it, added a curved MDF top, a few optional extras, and called it a day. That's a real issue as it seriously struggles to stand out as a result.

The finish on the desk is just about serviceable as a result of that. It's a laminate MDF top, with a speckled matt coating in black or white. Our sample had a few chips on it and the odd grubby mark too (likely because it shipped all the way to the UK from China), but it's just not that exciting.

The curve in it is similarly highly divisive. It doesn't necessarily look that great by modern standards, and although it is ergonomic and gets you a little closer to your monitor compared to some offerings (these things always seem to be super deep by comparison to most 60cm / 24in desks), it would have been much better served against the current competition with just a flat edge.

(Image credit: Future)

And then there's the cable management, which, honestly, in many ways does feel like the biggest afterthought on this whole project. The gap between the metal cable caddy in the rear and the top of the desk is just ridiculously tight. I cannot thread a UK plug through there, and even if I could, struggling to then try and insert that into the extension lead itself, cramming my wrist through the gap, while haphazardly trying to see what I'm doing while I do it, just feels like a recipe for disaster. Even with that height adjustment.

What's interesting is that AndaSeat's animated GIFs and videos littering the product page actually show that as being almost hinged, like you can drop it down on one side to access the extension load, which honestly would be fantastic, but you can't. It's secured in place with four Allen key screws, and that's it. You could loosen two and bend it down, but you'd likely be damaging that MDF top in the process.

Then there's the cupholder and the headphone holders included as well. Both of which are plastic. A quick glance at the imagery here, and you'll spot I didn't install them. Why? Because they just don't look premium at all. Cheap white shiny plastic with a mottled finish? No, thank you. They certainly don't match the white top finish, that's for sure.

Also missing from the product page is the under-desk PC holder and an elevated monitor stand, too, which would have been nice additional extras to see at least somewhat available on launch. That does make me wonder if the launch itself was rushed to hit a particular quarter, rather than when the product was ready.

Otherwise, building it is, although quite the time consuming process, easy enough to do as long as you follow the instructions; there's not a whole lot that can go wrong here, and the desk frame itself is impressively durable once you've finished with it.

(Image credit: Future)AndaSeat Xtreme Series Standing Desk review: performance

• Multi-profile settings are impressive
• Cable management needs work
• Load capacity is limited

On to the good news, then, once the desk is built, certainly in white, it does look remarkably clean, particularly with the Mac setup I have running on top of it. Now, admittedly, I am testing this in a coffee roastery, but it does fit the whole aesthetic here beautifully, and it'll work just as well in a spacious office, as long as you don't mind that curve I mentioned earlier.

The profile settings and height adjustment, too, are super sleek. There's a child lock on here, and it's incredibly smooth when you're adjusting the height as well. Setting specific profile heights is a doddle (simply pick a height, then press S, and the profile number you want to set it to), so if you do want to swap it on the fly, you can do so super quickly and easily.

As mentioned, cable management, though, leaves a lot to be desired. Not only is the cable tidy tray a pain to deal with, but I feel like the power setup for the height adjustment monitor could have been hidden a bit better as well. If the legs came pre-assembled with the power cable running through them directly, you could have hidden the kettle lead it requires in the top of the desk, rather than at the base of one of the legs.

Total rated load capacity is also quite light, too, at just 154lbs / 70kg. It's certainly considerably less capable than the Platform:4 (330lbs / 150kg), and even the more budget-friendly Secretlab Magnus Evo (264lbs / 120kg). That said, I did sit my own 176lbs / 80kg of weight on it, and it didn't snap in two, so who knows. This is likely a precaution due to the motors and that 18mm thick MDF that sits on top, so don't overdo it if you do invest in it.

(Image credit: Future)Should I buy the AndaSeat Xtreme Series Standing Desk?Buy it if...

You're in the US after a cheap entry-level standing desk
With multiple sizes and a relatively low entry point its remarkably affordable. Best-case scenario, you fall in love with multiple height adjustments; worst-case scenario, you've got a nice, comfortable, deep desk to sit at

You don't want fancy RGB or additional features
It's simple, remarkably so, and in some ways that's a positive, not a negative; there's no overtly gamer emphasis on display here, which is a win in some arenas.

You want curved ergonomics
You'll either love or hate that front curve, but if you're willing to take a chance on it, it does provide a modicum more ergonomic freedom than a standard flat desk

Don't buy it if...

You're looking for something a little more premium
Although it's impressively affordable, AndaSeat's cut some serious corners to make that a reality, from the MDF top to the cheap accessories.

You value good cable management
It's technically there, but you almost have to strip the desk down to get access to your extension leads again.

Also consider...

AndaSeat Xtreme Series

Corsair Platform:4

Secretlab Magnus Pro

Price

$400/$500, around £297/£370, or AU$562/AU$703

$699.99 / £799.99 / around AU$1,600 or $899.99 / £999.99 (Elevate) / around AU$2,000

$799 / £770

Height

28.7in / 73cm (up to 46.1in / 117cm)

29in / 74cm (up to 48in / 122cm Elevate)

25.6-49.2in / 65-125cm

Load capacity

154lbs / 70kg

330lbs / 150kg

264.6lbs / 120kg

Material

Cold-formed Steel, Laminated MDF

Steel, laminate / birchwood

Steel, wood fiberboard

Dimensions

120 x 75cm (47.2 x 29.5in) or 140 x 75cm (55.1 x 29.5in)

29in / 74cm x 47in / 120cm x 30in / 76cm

59.1 x 27.6 x 25.6-49.2in / 150 x 70 x 65-125cm

Noise level

<50db

~50db

N/A

Corsair Platform:4
The ultimate high-end gaming desk, ideal for creators and those who crave high-quality materials and Elgato support. It's expensive, yes, but the functionality feels almost endless.

For more information, check out our full Corsair Platform:4 review

Secretlab Magnus Pro
A rival for the Platform:4, but in a Secretlab package? Probably, with exceptional cable management, a great built-in controller, sleek, professional, and with a ton of magnetic accessories, it's seriously slick.

For more information, check out our full Secretlab Magnus Pro review

How I tested the AndaSeat Xtreme Series Standing Desk

• Built and used by hand, solo wherever possible
• Extensive work in an industrial environment
• Direct comparisons made to similarly priced competitors

I actually requested the Xtreme Series be shipped directly to a coffee roastery I work at, for two reasons primarily. Firstly, so it could be used in a working capacity (managing a coffee roastery is a hectic business), and secondly, to act as a coffee tasting table for clients and guests, to see if its versatility extended beyond just the technical capacity.

With direct feedback from multiple clients and colleagues, and used in a wide range of activities for multiple weeks, both gaming, working, and in an industrial capacity, it gave me a fantastic idea of just how this desk contends not only with modern standing desks, but also in more taxing environments.

First reviewed February 2026

Read more about how we test

Ready or Not 2: Here I Come is a direct continuation of the 2019 horror comedy Ready or Not, and a sequel I was very surprised to see on our new movies list.

When I rewatched the original movie on Disney+, I was reminded how great it is. Laugh out loud funny, plenty of shocking moments, and a concluding line that's just perfect. With that in mind, I thought it would be a great standalone movie.

But this is the horror genre, folks. We never seem to get just one movie, do we? Sequels are everywhere, some good, some bad. When it comes to Ready or Not 2: Here I Come, I'd consider it to be decent for what it is, and there's plenty to like about it.

When we pick up, it's right after the ending of the first movie. After surviving the deadly game of hide and seek, resulting in the deaths of her husband and in-laws, Grace (Samara Weaving) wakes up cuffed to her hospital bed. She's not going anywhere because she's now a suspect in the deaths, considering they all, you know, exploded except for her. Very suspicious.

Of course, we know that Grace was innocent, and she was due to be sacrificed to the devil Le Bail, as part of the family's deal with him. And you thought your in-laws were bad, huh?

Anyway, police interrogation would feel like a walk in the park compared to where Grace ends up. After briefly reuniting with her sister Faith (Kathryn Newton), the two are kidnapped, where they learn that the wealthiest and most influential families on Earth have to kill both of them in a new game, or they'll risk losing their power and fortunes.

So, the games begin again. Admittedly, there are plenty of fun sequences here, especially if you want some gruesome kills, which are arguably better than the ones in Ready or Not. Best seen with a crowd, these are definitely crowd pleasers.

The new additions to the cast are very fun to watch, too. Sarah Michelle Gellar stars as Ursula, opposite her on-screen twin, Titus (played by Shawn Hatosy). Horror legend David Cronenberg rounds out this truly awful family as Chester, the patriarch of the Danfords. It was great seeing him in front of the camera, and he's as good there as he is behind it, directing body horror masterpieces such as The Fly.

Gellar has so much fun in this role, too, a far cry from her role as Buffy Summers (no one talk to me about the Buffy reboot cancellation, by the way). She's evil here, and has a blast doing it, as she joins the others in trying to hunt down Grace and Faith.

The movie is strong because of its ensemble cast, which is worth the theater trip alone. Elijah Wood stars as "The Lawyer", an equally fun role that you definitely haven't seen him in before.

Despite all these positives, though, the sequel does feel unnecessary and convoluted in places as the lore has now expanded to accommodate these new families and rules, to the point where it feels a bit silly, even for a horror comedy.

This would be a good place for Ready or Not to stop, in my opinion, as you can easily watch the two back to back and have a good time doing it. Adding another installment with more stakes and more games would feel like a too many cooks situation.

You will very likely have fun with this movie due to its cast, kills, and tense moments. But it does build to a conclusion that never reaches the highs of its predecessor, so unfortunately, round two is by far the weakest.

That doesn't mean it's terrible, though, just don't expect to be blown away like you were last time.

The Kobra range of 3D printers has continued to impress over the years, and while the aesthetic design of their open-frame Cartesian machines has until now been very workshop-like, the reliability and quality of the prints have never failed to impress. So much so that there are still two old Kobra 2’s still running. They might not be the best machines compared to the latest releases, but after three years, they’re still running strong.

The Kobra X is a further progression forward in quality and design, which really started with the Kobra 3 Combo it’s just now the level of quality, along with the touch screen interface, speed and precision, all take another step forward. Anycubic are running to catch up like all others with the market leaders Bambu Lab, and to offer a solid alternative to the dominance of the Bambu Lab A1.

However, by taking on the A1, the Kobra X has had to refine the Anycubic 3D printers that have come before, and they’re not the only manufacturer that is playing catch-up with similarly cheap and excellent machines such as the Creality Hi, which again, for the price, is another outstanding cheap option. These printers are all very much now on a par; they don’t bring anything other than refinement to the older Cartesian style of FDM bed slinger printers.

What the Kobra X does is stamp Anycubic once again as a serious manufacturer in the 3D FDM arena, with a machine that improves the design quality and function. At this entry level, it’s essential that manufacturers get things right, as these are the machines that will endear users to their product lines. That’s why it seems for around the $300 / £300 mark, you’re getting a machine with literally all the features.

This does mean that any 3D printer at this level has to be simple to use, robust, reliable, aesthetically designed and when it comes to the prints, they need to be good, accurate and multicolored.

The market at this level is packed, and more importantly, the machines at this price point already have a solid and proven track record. Any of the best 3D printers I've tested for entry-level users need to compete needs to impress from the outset.

Getting started with the Kobra X instantly showed that the design and quality were on a par with the competition, and once a few updates and the calibration had run its course, the machine was up and running, the first few prints highlighting that the Kobra X was more than capable of standing its ground against the Creality and Bambu Lab machines.

Anycubic Kobra X: Price and Availability

The Anycubic Kobra X is currently only available directly from Anycubic US and Anycubic UK stores, priced at a discount $299 / £259 right now.

Combo versions are also available. If experience is anything to go by, expect this 3D printer to reach Amazon in the near future.

Anycubic Kobra X: Design

(Image credit: Alastair Jennings)

Anycubic has progressed the design of the Kobra machines significantly over the years, and comparing the old Kobra 2 against the latest X, you can see how the design and innovation of the latest model are worlds apart.

Yet, like those older machines, the Kobra X retains the older Cartesian style of design and sees the filament and print area open. While this means that for enthusiasts and those just starting out, you get to see the print being built, for those looking to use more advanced materials, the lack of an enclosure and controlled build area temperature limits the material choice.

Still, for beginners and hobbyists, that material restriction is probably a good thing, and after you’ve mastered the ways of PLA and PETG, you can then progress to the Kobra S1.

As it is, while the frame may be open, it’s been properly product designed and looks, as well as the machines usability compared with past models has all taken a leap forward.

Again, the gantry feels good and solid, and Anycubic has once again worked on the quality of the Cable routing, so less of the workings are on show.

While the design is still open, the motors and power adapter, belts and wiring are all, for the most part, hidden away. The 3.5-inch touch screen is also intuitive and easy to navigate, with the ability to load prints via USB or through the Anycubic Slicer software wirelessly.

(Image credit: Alastair Jennings)

The physical size is also relatively compact, with the four filament spools being mounted on the horizontal top bar, enabling easy accessibility. If you want the filament in a dry box, then you can couple the printer with the Ace 2 Pro, in fact, up to four of these filament boxes to enable 19 color printing.

When it comes to the dimensions, it measures in at 455.4 x 445.3 x 461.3 mm with the filaments adding to the height. Weight-wise, this is a printer that is easy to move around if space is limited, and without the filaments, it weighs 12.7kg or 18 kg for the combo model. The Ace 2 Pro will add an additional 4.8 kg per unit.

While the weight can quickly build like its competitors at the base level, it’s still very manoeuvrable and easy to carry and store. The build area is also pretty decent at a perfect 260 × 260 × 260mm, meaning that there’s plenty of room for a good amount of projects.

One of the other big design features is the Ace Gen 2 print head with a new extruder, cutter and multifilament system that helps to cut down on the filament purge compared with other systems.

• Design: 4.5/5

Anycubic Kobra X: Features

(Image credit: Alastair Jennings)Specs

(Image credit: Alastair Jennings)

Print Technology: FDM
Build Area: 260 × 260 × 260 mm
Minimum Layer Resolution: 0.05 mm
Maximum Layer Resolution: 0.30 mm
Dimensions: Approx. 500 × 500 × 580 mm
Weight: Approx. 9.5 kg
Bed: Heated aluminium build plate (up to 110°C)
Print Surface: Textured PEI spring steel flex plate
Software: Anycubic Slicer (Cura-based) + Wi-Fi / App / Cloud support
Materials: PLA, PETG, TPU, ABS
Print Speed: Up to 600 mm/s

At first look, the Kobra X follows the same lines of design as the other new bed slingers. Everything is a little neater and less DIY workshop, and it isn’t just the aesthetics; these new machines leap forward with the technology and features as well.

The first point to note is that for those on a budget, the machine, with discounts, can be purchased for around $299 / £259, and for that price you have the ability to print in 4 colors. That is discounted from the usual $399 / £359, but when discounted that makes it £100 less than the competition. That price point is just the start, with several different combo options that then see the price hit a peak of $1148 / £987 with four Ace 2 Pro boxes and the ability to print up to 19 colors.

Like the S1, there’s also the ability to quality swap out the nozzle for different diameters, with the machine arriving with a standard 0.4mm and options for diameters from 0.25 through to 0.8mm. What also stands out here is that many of the parts can easily be swapped out, most notably the Ace Gen 2 print head.

Compared with Anycubic's previous multicolor Cartesian printers, this new system is double the speed and saves more filament through filament purging. It can also print 4 colors out of the box with the option to print an additional 15, taking the total to 19 colors.

The machine also builds in AI detection, which enables perfect first-layer printing, and if any issues are detected, the machine will stop before any damage is caused.

Out of the box, thanks to the new print head, the machine can also print PLA and TPU (68D) simultaneously, enabling you to print far more complex models. This type of feature is more common in multi-tool head printers and not common in single-nozzle systems like this.

A feature that I’ve seen expanding across almost all manufacturers is the ability to monitor and control the printer remotely. Again, while this isn’t a unique feature, the fact that it’s included on a portion of this print point is exceptional.

Anycubic make a big point about the new Ace Gen 2 technology, which features a 52% reduction in the distance between the filament cutter and nozzle and an 81.25% reduction in filament change length, ultimately reducing the time between filament swaps and the amount of filament that needs to be purged.

The most interesting point about this head is that it features an adaptive extrusion force compensator, which adjusts the extrusion force based on the filament hardness so that PLA, PVA and softer TPU can all be extruded without manual adjustment between filament swaps. This means you can print with the following combinations: PLA + TPU, PLA + PVA or TPU + TPU.

One of the other features that stands out, despite its simplicity, is the fact that the spools for the four colors are mounted above the machine. This means that although you do need to have quite a bit of headroom, for smaller workshop areas where desk space might be limited, this four-color solution retains a small footprint.

Print speeds can reach a maximum of 600mm/s with the default being an impressive 300mm/s. As a speed test on the machine, the USB is loaded with a fast 3DBench model that prints in a little over 14 minutes, which by any standards is fast.

Once again, the machine features the latest version of Anycubics LeviQ 3.0 levelling system with 49-point auto-leveling, Flow Dynamic Calibration, and Vibration Compensation. The heat bed has also been redesigned to ensure an even spread of heat under the platform.

The AI detection has a few key new features that I was keen to test. The first, as always, is the spaghetti detection, but then the new object skipping is of real interest. The spaghetti detection will stop the printer if something goes wrong and spaghetti strands of filament start to appear.

Object Skipping is something new. This essentially skips a print that’s failed, so if you have a series of parts printing on the same bed and one fails, usually that means that all will fail. However, once the camera detects a failure, it skips it and continues the rest of the prints without returning to the failed one.

• Features: 4.5/5

Anycubic Kobra X: Performance

(Image credit: Alastair Jennings)

The Kobra X is one of the most straightforward Bed Slingers I’ve assembled and took a little over five minutes to unbox and build. Once powered up and the calibration steps were run, which takes around 30 minutes, then the printer is set to go.

On the first run, I checked the first layer accuracy, and once finished, the sheet of plastic that had been extruded was of exceptional quality, peeling back to reveal an even and well distributed layer of filament. The next few test models were all from the supplied USB key, and as expected, these ran through without issue.

I then progressed to my own custom test models, all initially single filament. While Anycubic had supplied a 3DBenchy model on the USB, this was highly optimised to enable fast printing, so I loaded my stock version and was able to get a decent model in around 33 minutes with a clear surface and decent structure.

As I progressed through the test, pushing 4 kg of filament through for a variety of parts and projects, the printer remained consistent, and at all times, the four filament spools were left exposed to the elements rather than being protected in dry boxes. The printer was able to withstand the workshop temperatures, which could dip to around 10ºC at night.

Checking out the Autodesk / Kickstarter quality test proved that the printer, despite its price, is an exceptional value considering the quality that it is capable of printing. The highlight here is the dimensional accuracy, which I have seen with other Cartesian printers often appears to be more accurate than many Core XY printers.

Across the board, the quality tests were exceptionally good, and considering the price and the fact that it natively prints with four colors and can support up to 19, as well as having the ability to print with two materials, TPU and PLA, makes this printer an exceptional value for money.

Through the test, there were a couple of points that caused an issue. The first is that if your filaments don’t include the Anycubic RFID chip, then it isn’t always straightforward to update the printer as to what’s loaded in and a bit of fiddling was needed, essentially scanning an Anycubic reel and then popping on a third party. However, using the Anycubic FDilament with the RFID chips, loading and using a multitude of different material options was exceptionally simple.

Benchmark results

Dimensional accuracy - score of 4

Target 25 = X: 25.83mm / 0.17mm Error | Y: 25.01mm / 0.01mm Error
Target 20 = X: 19.86mm / 0.14mm Error | Y: 19.81mm / 0.19mm Error
Target 15 = X: 14.75mm / 0.25mm Error | Y: 14.87mm / 0.13mm Error
Target 10 = X: 9.79mm / 0.21mm Error | Y: 9.88mm / 0.12mm Error
Target 5 = X: 4.91mm / 0.09mm Error | Y: 4.87mm / 0.13mm Error

X Error Average = 0.172
Y Error Average = 0.116
X&Y Error Average = 0.144

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 25.5 out of 28.

(Image credit: Alastair Jennings)

One of my other major selling points from Anycubic about this new models is the speed and reduction of filament waste. While actual print speed is increased, the new iteration of the slicer software, AnycubicSlicerNext (Kobra X), doesn’t seem to reflect the speed change compared with the AnycubicSlicer (Kobra 3) software, often quoting the Kobra 3 and Kobra X having similar print times.

Going to multi-color printing, and this is where the machine comes into its own. Again, like print speeds, the software doesn’t seem to highlight the waste difference between this and the Kobra 3; however, after printing, while the filament piles are similar, the X does have a slight filament pile reduction compared to the Kobra 3.

Having run four 1 Kg spools through the system, I’ve been impressed by the dimensional accuracy, speed and surface quality. I would, however, highlight that the print platform should be cleaned regularly.

The platform's surface, while offering good adhesion, does need to be cleaned and seems slightly more prone than usual to finger grease, so just something to be aware of. As an open-framed 3D printer, while there are limitations on what you can print, the overall performance is exceptionally good.

• Performance: 4.5 / 5

Anycubic Kobra X: Final verdict

(Image credit: Alastair Jennings)

The Anycubic Kobra X is one of the latest highly refined multi-color printers that offers a huge amount of potential. The quality of the build and design is a huge step forward from what I’ve seen in the past from the open design printers, but then, with the likes of the BambuLab A1, which was launched back in 2023, no manufacturer can get away with producing a printer that looks like it’s been put together in a workshop.

The workflow has been smoothed out, and once calibrated, which is of course all handled by the printer, as long as you ensure you maintain the rails and keep things clean after every print, the reliability is superb.

There are a couple of points on the maintenance of this printer. The first is to make sure that the print surface is always given a wipe over with an isopropyl alcohol (IPA) spray and a lint-free cloth.

The other point, which is especially relevant with this and other multi-filament printers, is to clear away the filament waste pile after, and even during, each print. Those tiny piles of filament can get stuck in various parts of the printer, so don’t let them pile up.

The filament waste issue is as ever apparent, but at present, with the design that’s pretty standard and at the price that is the price you pay.

Ultimately, for a printer that is so cheap, the potential and print quality of the Kobra X is superb, and at a competitive price point, it is at present the best value in a crowded field.

Should you buy the Anycubic Kobra X?

Value:

Incredible value for money for a multifilament printer with upgrade potential for even more filaments

5

Design:

Older Cartesian design, but refined, fast and reliable

4

Features:

AnyCubic has thrown every feature going at the Kobra X, camera, advanced auto levelling, and multfilament printing

4.5

Performance:

Fast performance for the design and decent print quality with easy multifilament printing

4

Total:

Outstanding value and one of the cheapest 3D printers at this quality on the market

4.5

Buy it if...

You need multifilament printing.

Able to print with four filament colors straight out of the box, the potential is impressive for a printer at this price, wit hth eability to add more filament boxes when needed.

You want a cheap 3D printer.

At present no other printer can compete when it comes to features and price.

Don't buy it if...

You don’t like filament waste.

Like so many printers of this type, filament waste is a problem when multifilament printing.

You print with advanced materials.

While the printer is exceptional in so many ways, the open design means that it’s not suitable for printing advanced materials such as nylon and ABS.

For more crafting essentials, I've also tested out the best laser engravers

Minisforum MS-02 Ultra: 30-second review

The Minisforum MS-02 Ultra is a compact mini workstation aimed at business professionals who need desktop-grade power but lack the space for a full-sized workstation.

The first thing that struck me as I lifted the MS-02 from the box was that, for such a small machine, it’s incredibly heavy at 3.45kg, which instantly gives you the hint that this is a serious piece of kit rather than your run-of-the-mill mini PC.

The matte black chassis is discreetly designed, with plenty of cooling vents running across the casing. There are also rubber feet on the base and side that let you easily orient the machine in either an upright tower or a flat desktop position. It looks and feels like a miniaturised version of a professional workstation rather than a standard Mini PC, and its full-metal exterior gives it a premium look and feel.

Checking the MS-02 reveals that this machine is the link between the Mini PC and the Desktop. It has the small size of a Mini PC but quite a bit of upgradability, including RAM, ROM, and an expansion slot. All of the upgrade potential can be easily accessed via the slide-out internal chassis.

This chassis is held in place by two thumb screws; once they are undone, the entire internals can be pulled out. You can then remove the internal modules, which do require tools, but once unscrewed and laid out, you have access to the SODIMM slots and M.2 bays. The layout and concept are similar to the old Intel NUC 9 Extreme (Ghost Canyon) Mini PC from a few years back.

The front ports are well laid out with two USB4 V2 Type-C ports running at 80Gbps, taking priority over the traditional pair of USB-A ports, and through the test with the LaCie Rugged SSD Pro5, I was impressed with the transfer rates enabling me to use the drive to edit 4K video on a drive that was essentially matching the speeds of the internal SSD.

On the rear of the machine, the ports are a little more sparse, but there are some good networking options alongside the three USB-A 10Gbps ports, HDMI 2.1 FRL, and unique to the 285HX machine that I’m reviewing, the dual 25GbE SFP+ sockets alongside the more standard 10GbE and 2.5GbE RJ45 connections. Essentially, for creatives, photographers and videographers working with high-speed network-attached storage such as the UGreen idx6011 pro, this is a great option.

Performance, even with the integrated Intel graphics, was unsurprisingly good throughout all tests, from Microsoft Apps through to editing 4K video in Premiere Pro. Once again, the Intel Core Ultra 9 285HX showed just how powerful it is, handling 4K editing in DaVinci Resolve and Premiere Pro without issue or pause on rough cuts, and then moving on to more in-depth grading.

Unsurprisingly, Lightroom Classic and Photoshop ran smoothly and, more impressively, handled large raw files from both the Canon EOS R5 C and the Hasselblad X2D II 100C with ease.

I did find that without a discrete GPU, the extended timeline rendering when editing video required a bit of patience, especially as you get further into the edit, but for the majority of users, whether you're an office worker looking for a powerful machine, a creative, a photographer or a videographer or a developer looking at the AI potential, there’s plenty on offer here.

The key point is that this machine is the base, and unlike some of the best mini PCs I've tested, it offers plenty of potential for upgrades. Out of the box, this is a very powerful workstation for development and power users handling large-scale data and spreadsheets. Add a GPU, and it becomes a very competent editing suite. Essentially, the machine's design enables you to adapt its configuration to suit your needs.

Minisforum MS-02 Ultra: Price and availability

• How much does it cost? From $1159 / £1039
• When is it out? Available now
• Where can you get it? Directly from Minisforum or Amazon

The Minisforum MS-02 Ultra is available directly from Minisforum's store, as well as online retailers such as Amazon.com, Newegg, and Amazon.co.uk.

Prices for the Intel Core Ultra 9 285HX barebone starting at $1159 / £1039. A 32GB RAM and 1TB SSD configuration available at $1599 / £1455.

A fully specified 192GB DDR5 ECC and 2TB SSD variant is £2,679. There are also other versions of the machine available with an Intel Core Ultra 9 275HX or Ultra 5 235HX models, and these start at $599 / £559. As barebones, though they lack ECC memory, dual 25GbE networking, and the two additional M.2 slots exclusive to the 285HX.

• Value: 4.5 / 5

(Image credit: Alastair Jennings)Minisforum MS-02 Ultra: Specs

CPU: Intel Core Ultra 9 285HX
GPU: Intel integrated graphics
AI Engine: NPU
Memory: 4x DDR5 SODIMM slots (Up to 256GB, ECC supported (285HX only))
Storage: 2x M.2 2280 PCIe 4.0 x4 NVMe (up to 8TB each) + 2x M.2 on 25GbE NIC card (PCIe 3.0/4.0) 285HX only; up to 24TB total
Networking: 2x 25GbE SFP+ (Intel E810, 285HX only); 1x 10GbE RJ45; 1x 2.5GbE RJ45; Wi-Fi 7 (Intel BE200); Bluetooth 5.4
Front Ports: 2x USB4 V2 Type-C, USB-A 10Gbps; 3.5mm audio jack
Rear Ports: HDMI 2.1 FRL (8K@60Hz); USB4 Type-C (40Gbps); 3x USB-A 10Gbps, 2x 25GbE SFP+, 10GbE + 2.5GbE RJ45
Internal expansion: 1x PCIe 5.0 x16; 1x PCIe 4.0 x4; 1x PCIe 4.0 x16 (occupied by 25GbE NIC on 285HX)
OS: Windows 11 Pro
Dimensions: 221.5 x 97 x 225mm
Weight: 3.45kg (for the 285HX model)

Minisforum MS-02 Ultra: Design

The MS-02 Ultra is a serious-looking machine with simple styling and a black matte finish. The machine is larger than your average mini PC; however, it has been designed to be positioned either as a mini tower or laid flat on a desk, with quality rubber feet to support both orientations.

Despite being small, measuring just 221.5 x 97 x 225mm, the 3.45kg weight as I lifted it out of the box immediately signalled that this was something more than a standard consumer mini PC. It’s substantially smaller than a conventional tower workstation but larger than a Mini PC, and it draws on the design of both.

Build quality is excellent throughout. The casing is solid and made entirely of metal, reinforcing its premium aesthetics. It also makes it easy to mount within other furniture and equipment, with the tough metal casing ensuring it will look the part in any stylish office and out in the field if used as an on-site workstation.

The design feature that stood out is the slide-out internal chassis, which is secured in place by two thumb screws. Once these are removed (which takes seconds), the entire internal assembly slides out, giving you easy access to the SODIMM slots, M.2 bays, PCIe slots, and the cooling assembly. This style of access is more familiar to desktop users than to Mini PC owners.

(Image credit: Alastair Jennings)

On the front of the machine, there are two USB4 V2 Type-C ports at 80Gbps alongside a single USB-A port and a standard 3.5mm combo jack for a headset. At the rear, there are three additional USB-A ports, all 10Gbps; HDMI 2.1 FRL; a USB4 Type-C port at 40Gbps; and the 285HX's dual 25GbE SFP+.

Then there are the more common 10GbE RJ45 and 2.5GbE RJ45. When it comes to display output options, the choices are a little limited: either HDMI 2.1 or USB4. While this might not meet the demands of gamers in a professional setup, it should meet most people's demands.

Obviously, being a small workstation, heat can build up, and during the test, the fans kick in early to keep things cool. Given their small size, those fans are notably louder than those on a large workstation, which often run near silent.

I was interested to see if the metal casing also worked as a heat sink, but checking the casing surface, the temperatures under sustained load remained pretty cool, and while warm to the touch around the mid and lower sections, the heat from the internals seemed well distributed.

• Design: 4.5 / 5

(Image credit: Alastair Jennings)Minisforum MS-02 Ultra: Features

The feature set of the 285HX model is where the MS-02 Ultra really sets itself apart from what we’d usually expect from a mini PC.

Even compared with the other model in the range, the 285HX with it’s flagship configuration adds ECC DDR5 memory support (error-correcting memory for greater data reliability), dual 25GbE SFP+ networking via an Intel E810 controller (two 25 gigabit Ethernet ports with SFP+ interfaces for advanced networking), and a fourth and fifth M.2 NVMe slot integrated onto the 25GbE NIC card (additional high-speed storage slots built into the network card).

That takes total on-board storage capacity to 24TB across four drives. The lower-spec 275HX and 235HX models share the same chassis but lose all three of these features, making the 285HX a much more capable model for more power-hungry users.

What these upgraded specifications mean in certain fields, such as creative, is an enhancement in workflow reliability, especially with ECC memory.

The storage options for a machine of this size are significant, with four M.2 slots that can be used independently either as separate drives for project, media, cache, and archive, for example, or you can choose to configure in RAID 0, 1, 5, or 10. This means you can potentially have 24TB of fast SSD storage appear as a single drive, and then offload that content to a NAS when ready.

It’s worth noting that the M.2 slots are limited to PCIe 4.0 rather than the newer PCIe 5.0 standard, which limits transfer speeds; however, in real-world creative workloads, this additional speed is rarely noticeable.

On the front, there are two USB4 V2 ports, which I was able to test with a LaCie Rugged SSD Pro5 external storage device, and the uplift in speed was significant, almost double that recorded on older USB 4.0.

Wired connectivity is the big network feature for this machine, but alongside is the Wifi connection. The machine handles Wi-Fi 7 using an Intel BE200 module. In testing against a Fritz! Box 5690 Pro: the raw throughput connection speed to drives connected to the wireless network was higher than on the Wi-Fi 6 network. But the connection's consistency and reliability were noticeably better.

Wired connectivity via the 10GbE port proved fast in studio use, and the fact that the machine also has 25GbE SFP+ ports offers future upgrade potential, especially for studios building high-speed NAS infrastructure, really highlighting that my network is ready for an upgrade.

The PCIe 5.0 x16 slot adds the ability to upgrade the machine and, to a certain degree, will future-proof your investment, with room for a low-profile GPU should the integrated graphics prove insufficient. This might be of particular concern if you have intensive rendering workloads.

The system also supports Intel vPro with BIOS-level KVM on the 285HX, enabling full remote management for 24/7 deployment, which is essential for larger corporations that will have home and remote workers.

(Image credit: Alastair Jennings)

• Features: 5 / 5

Minisforum MS-02 Ultra: PerformanceBenchmark scores

CrystalDiskMark Read: 6,136.46 MB/s
CrystalDiskMark Write: 5,338.79 MB/s
Geekbench CPU Single: 3,058
Geekbench CPU Multi: 18,366
Geekbench GPU: 19,645
PCMark Overall: 7,983
Cinebench CPU Single: 2,277
Cinebench CPU Multi: 35,080
3DMark Fire Strike Overall: 4,657
3DMark Fire Strike Graphics: 4,799
3DMark Fire Strike Physics: 49,395
3DMark Fire Strike Combined: 1,806
3DMark Time Spy Overall: 2,315
3DMark Time Spy Graphics: 2,025
3DMark Time Spy CPU: 12,262
3DMark Wild Life Overall: 14,166
3DMark Steel Nomad Overall: 407
Windows Experience Index: 8.2
USB4 V2 External Read (LaCie Rugged SSD Pro5): 6,012.07 MB/s
USB4 V2 External Write (LaCie Rugged SSD Pro5): 4,053.44 MB/s

The Intel Core Ultra 9 285HX is an impressive CPU for a machine of this size, and the benchmark results reflect that. The Geekbench multi-core score of 18,366 and Cinebench multi-core result of 35,080 place this well within workstation territory, and the PCMark overall score of 7,983 confirms that real-world productivity performance is excellent across the board. SSD read speeds of 6,136 MB/s and write speeds of 5,338 MB/s from the installed NVMe drive are excellent for a PCIe 4.0 module, although, as mentioned earlier, it would have been great to have seen at least one PCIe 5.0 option.

In creative applications, the machine is ideal for working in a photography and video studio, being able to fit on a desktop neatly, and the size also makes it ultra portable if it does need to be installed into a movable workstation.

Through the test using Lightroom Classic and the power of the machine, it was able to manage large libraries and complex adjustments from Hasselblad X2D II 100C files without issue, and Photoshop ran large raw files with the same ease.

For video, DaVinci Resolve and Premiere Pro both handled rough cuts and colour grading of Canon EOS R5 C Log3 4K footage as well as any machine I’ve tried. As expected with integrated graphics only, timeline rendering on longer projects required leaving the machine to sit after each significant editing session, just to enable time for the timeline to render before applying grades and effects, essentially a build-and-render approach, which is common.

Loading several more demanding apps at once showed that multitasking abilities were handled well. Switching between Photoshop and Premiere Pro caused no lag, and running Microsoft Office applications alongside the creative suite also proved well within the machine's abilities. For five- to ten-minute 4K edits, at least the 64GB of ECC RAM in the review unit proved well balanced to the workload.

Another point here on the performance is the speed of the internal SSDs that are able to transfer the large amounts of data needed for video editing. The benchmark results returned a CrystalDiskMark Read speed of 6,136.46 MB/s and Write of 5,338.79 MB/s. What was impressive here was connecting the LaCie Rugged SSD Pro5 to the USB4 V2 External port on the front, which registered 6,012.07 MB/s read and 4,053.44 MB/s, showing a significant speed increase over standard USB 4.0.

Video editing can put a huge demand on all components in the machine, and thermal throttling can be a real issue. As I started to push the system, the fans kicked in early to help keep things cool, and while the volume of these remained low, they were noticeable, especially compared directly against my usual video workstation.

What this load did reveal was the performance held up over a five-hour editing session with no signs of throttling. The cooling solution inside, which consists of six heat pipes with phase-change material and a dual-fan chamber, managed the sustained processing loads on the electronics.

The GPU performance from the integrated Intel graphics was OK for all creative tasks during the test, but if you are considering this for any process that relies on a graphics card, then connecting an eGPU is going to be essential. The 3DMark scores with Fire Strike at 4,657 and Time Spy at 2,315 reflect the limits of integrated graphics rather than the CPU falling short. Reassuringly, there is room in the chassis for a dual-slot low-profile GPU, and the 350W internal PSU includes a spare 8-pin connector to power it.

Taking a break from testing, I tried out the game Indiana Jones and the Great Circle, which ran surprisingly well at mid-level settings, and far better than many gaming-focused mini PCs I've reviewed. It shows just how powerful that CPU is without the support of a discrete GPU..

One other note on the test: the dual 25GbE SFP+ ports were not tested during the review period due to the absence of a compatible 25GbE switch. A follow-up test is planned once the network infrastructure is in place.

• Performance: 4.5 / 5

(Image credit: Alastair Jennings)Minisforum MS-02 Ultra: Final verdict

(Image credit: Alastair Jennings)

The Minisforum MS-02 Ultra and flagship 285HX variant that I’ve looked at in this review offers a substantial feature set for a machine of this size, which will give it wide appeal for businesses looking for a powerful and compact machine at a reasonable price.

Features such as the ECC memory, dual 25GbE networking, four M.2 slots, PCIe 5.0 expansion, and Intel vPro together add up to a platform that can serve as a creative workstation, a compact server node, a home lab host, or all three.

For larger businesses, the inclusion of Intel vPro means that they can manage the machine securely over a remote connection, which will be of definite appeal.

In the creative field and any photographer or videographer working with large-format files, this machine, with the combination of fast internal storage, high-speed USB4 V2 connectivity, and network offload via 10GbE or 25GbE, makes it an interesting choice, especially with the potential to pop in a discreet GPU. The small size of a machine with this power also means that it will be equally at home as a static desk machine or moved between locations.

There are a few downsides to the machine, and while there is a barebones version, even with the ready-to-go review configuration for many, this will just be the base machine. The out-of-the-box storage of 1TB fills quickly in creative workflows, and upgrading to 4TB or more will be essential.

Then there’s the Intel Graphics that actually proved to be pretty powerful through the test; however, if you are working with graphics or anything that requires the GPU for processing, then a card will need to be added.

The 64GB RAM of the review unit was well matched to the workloads I ran through the test, but anyone running this as a server or AI platform, or editing longer projects, will want to boost the RAM to 128GB or higher configurations. Once those upgrades are factored in, the total cost climbs rapidly and starts to have a value closer to a lower-end full-sized workstation.

Essentially, the small size of the machine and the price make it a viable option; it’s just worth keeping in mind that the out-of-the-box configuration is just the start, and what you install for your workload will add cost. However, even at the top end of Mini PC models, there’s nothing to compete with this flexibility, and even the cheapest workstation is going to be significantly larger, which makes this a great solution all round.

Should I buy the Minisforum MS-02 Ultra?

Value

PC, but budget for upgrades should be factored in to unlock full potential. 

4.5

Design

Slide-out chassis and full metal casing are robust and look great.

4.5

Features

Unique 285HX feature set and upgrades are unmatched at this form factor

5

Performance

Ultra-fast CPU and performance across the board, with upgrades available if more power is needed. 4/5

4.5

Overall

Work Stations can be phenomenally expensive, this gives you a powerful base at a great price to build on

5

Buy it if...

You need a compact workstation.

The 285HX CPU, ECC memory, and four M.2 slots make this a great desktop replacement for creative and professional workloads.

You're building a high-speed studio or home lab. 

The fast network options, including the dual 25GbE networking and PCIe expansion, make this an option as a network node or dev machine.

Don't buy it if...

You need GPU performance. 

Without a discrete GPU, sustained rendering and GPU-intensive tasks will be limited; however, a GPU can be added.

You want simplicity

The barebone configuration requires investment and some technical knowledge to configure optimally.

For more options, we've tested and reviewed the best mobile workstations and the best business computers.

Ulefone RugKing Pad Pro: 30-second review

The Ulefone RugKing Pad Pro is a compact, rugged tablet designed for outdoor professionals and trades, and is available at an incredibly low price. What makes this impressive is not just the price but the bright yellow design detailing, screen, and build quality.

Considering the relatively low price, the quality of the build and materials is genuinely good, feeling solid and robust which is reinforced by the IP68, IP69K and MIL-STD-810H certifications. Visually, the design highlights the rugged credentials with the usual hardened rubberised corners synonymous with this tablet style.

Unlike many rugged tablets I’ve looked at in the past, this design avoids the bulk and ugliness that often come with heavy-duty certification. The bright yellow accents and ribbed backplate give it a distinctive look, and the Corning Gorilla Glass 3 screen has a slightly matte finish that makes it easy on the eye and comfortable to read in a range of lighting conditions.

With an 8.68-inch screen and a lowish-profile bezel, it comfortably fits in one hand, and, coupled with a weight of 540g, it all feels well-balanced for a certified rugged device. The 860-nit display is also more than bright enough for outdoor use, and the adaptive brightness and Highlight Mode mean it adapts well to the changing light conditions, although these days this is a standard feature.

This is an entry-level model; still, the performance from the Unisoc T7250 CPU is, for the most part, solid. Google productivity apps run smoothly, with the interfaces for each application responsive, though the screen resolution, while clear, is a little limited.

Likewise, the same is true for some light creative work in apps like Photoshop Express and CapCut: as long as you don’t push the resolution of the images or the video editing, most adjustments and edits are perfectly viable.

As long as your expectations for the tablet are at the entry to mid-level, the performance is solid, although as you push the system, the limitations do start to show under heavier workloads such as serious image editing, video rendering, or gaming. Although it has to be said, all applications tested are usable, especially Lightroom, which actually runs exceptionally well, and this is a tablet designed for outdoor professionals rather than creatives and with that in mind, the performance feels well-balanced.

Battery life is good and impressive through the test. During the benchmarking, which lasted about 3 hours, the battery only dropped 10%. This initial 10% drop utilised the tablet's CPU and GPU to the max, and over the rest of the 10-day test, the tablet dropped to 12% charge, a result that actually supports Ulefone's longevity claims.

Another feature that will be especially relevant to trade is the uSmart expansion connector, dock charging, and eSIM support, all of which set a business-focused feature set that makes the RugKing Pad Pro a great choice for anyone working in the field, and a sure-fire inclusion in our guide to the best rugged tablets we've tested.

Ulefone RugKing Pad Pro: Price & availability

• How much does it cost? $199 / £170
• When is it out? Now
• Where can you get it? Widely available

The Ulefone RugKing Pad Pro is available directly from Ulefone, as well as online retailers including Amazon.com and Amazon.co.uk.

The standard price is $199.99 / £170 at the time of review. Optional accessories, including the desk charging dock, tablet hand strap with kickstand, and uSmart endoscope and microscope modules, are sold separately. The cost of the 4G SIM or eSIM will be an additional expense.

• Value: 4 / 5

(Image credit: Alastair Jennings)Ulefone RugKing Pad Pro: Design

(Image credit: Alastair Jennings)Specifications

Rugged rating: IP68 / MIL-STD-810H certification
Battery: 7100mAh / 18W fast charging / 6W reverse charging
Screen: 8.68in / 1340 x 800 resolution / 90Hz refresh rate / Corning Gorilla Glass 3
CPU: Unisoc T7250 (12nm), Octa-core (2 x 1.8GHz + 6 x 1.6GHz)
Graphics: ARM Mali-G57 MP1
RAM: 8GB (+ up to 8GB virtual RAM expansion)
Storage: 128GB UFS 2.2; expandable via microSD up to 2TB
Left Ports: USB-C, 3.5mm headphone jack, waterproof port covers
Right Ports: Volume buttons, custom programmable key, SIM tray (2x Nano-SIM + microSD)
Connectivity: 4G LTE dual SIM + built-in eSIM; Wi-Fi 5 (802.11ac); Bluetooth 5.2; NFC; GPS + GLONASS + Galileo + BeiDou + QZSS; FM Radio
Audio: Dual speakers; 3.5mm headphone jack; headset-free FM Radio
Camera: 16MP rear (PDAF, HDR, LED flash, 1080p/30fps video); 8MP front
Size: 222 x 131.5 x 12.4mm; 540g
OS Installed: Android 16
Accessories: Desk Charging Dock (sold separately); Tablet Hand Strap with kickstand (sold separately); uSmart E01/E02 endoscope, C01 microscope (sold separately); Buds; Armor Mount Max

The RugKing Pad Pro is a great-looking rugged tablet with its yellow detailing and relatively slim profile. Unlike the more usual blocky, overtly industrial aesthetic that I’ve seen in the past when reviewing rugged tablets, Ulefone has taken a more refined approach: sharp lines, a protective frame, and a bright yellow ribbed back panel that gives it a rugged look without adding unnecessary bulk.

The yellow colour option, applied to the detail elements and the backplate, proved to be a practical choice, as I discovered through the test. That yellow colour makes it easy to spot at the back of a van and in low-light conditions, where high visibility matters. The yellow essentially contrasts well against most working environments and is one of the reasons some camera bag manufacturers also select this colour.

The screen is protected by Corning Gorilla Glass 3, which has a slightly matte surface that I found made extended reading and document work more comfortable than a typical glossy display. Although this is an entry-level device with a low screen resolution, the display quality is one of the best I’ve seen, and the surface was absolutely spot on for me.

When it comes to handling, the 8.68-inch size sits well in one hand and is easy to hold, thanks to its 540g weight. While not light, it is still easy to carry for extended periods. One feature of the design highlighted by the manufacturer is the ribbed back, and while this does look grippy, in practice it offers little more traction than a smooth surface; it’s more aesthetic than functional, and a slightly rubberised texture would have improved real-world grip.

The waterproof port plugs are simple push-fit rubber bungs, which are standard for this category. They’re made from a hard rubber that should last the lifespan of the device, but as with all such designs, you need to ensure they’re fully seated before subjecting the device to being submerged in water.

The pogo pin dock connector holds the tablet firmly, and the charging dock, sold separately, is essential if you are looking for this for the workplace, especially if multiple units need to be managed.

• Design: 3 / 5

Ulefone RugKing Pad Pro: Features

(Image credit: Alastair Jennings)

Fronting the tablet is an 8.68-inch IPS LCD display with a 1340 x 800 resolution, a 90Hz refresh rate, and peak brightness of 860 nits. While the resolution and refresh rate are slightly lower than those of recent rugged tablets, the display still looks good.

A common feature worth highlighting is adaptive brightness, which adjusts the screen automatically to ambient conditions, and there's a dedicated Highlight Mode that pushes brightness even further in direct sunlight. Both features work well in practice, although it is mid-March, so slightly duller day to day than later in the year.

The RugKing Pad Pro supports up to two Nano-SIMs or an eSIM. The physical SIMs, along with the TF/MicroSD card, can be loaded into the slot on the side of the device. It’s worth noting that the eSIM and physical SIMs cannot be used at the same time, and if you do want to switch between them a restart is required.

eSIM activation follows a standard process via Settings > Network & Internet, with setup via QR code or activation code. 4G LTE connectivity is all you get, and there’s no 5G support. Wi-Fi 5, Bluetooth 5.2, NFC, and multi-constellation GPS (GPS, GLONASS, Galileo, BeiDou, QZSS) complete the wireless options.

In the past, I’ve been impressed by uSmart's expansion accessories, such as the EndoScope, and it’s great to see that ecosystem from the tough phones now on a larger tablet, as it really does enhance its usefulness. The connector for attaching accessories is on the side and supports Ulefone’s professional accessories, including the E01 and E02 endoscopes and the C01 microscope.

The connector uses a single securing screw for attachment, and the accessories really do provide a genuine professional tool set for trades who need to carry out inspection work. The ability to feed endoscope footage directly to the tablet’s 8.68-inch screen has obvious advantages over a mobile phone screen.

A rugged mobile device wouldn’t be without a programmable custom key, and this can be assigned to any function or app; during testing, it was mapped to the camera for instant access. Other slightly unique features include the Glove mode, activated through the Special Functions menu in Settings, which, when tested, worked well with fabric gloves and lighter work gloves, though heavier-duty gloves didn’t work; however, compared with standard touch screens, this mode does make a big difference to usability.

Another of the big rugged features is the 133LM Super Torch, which sits next to the camera. Here, with the slightly focused beam, it is reasonable and has a decent reach, although there is no brightness adjustment or beam focus control.

The RugKing Pad Pro is preloaded with Android 16 and a host of apps, if anything too many, one of the first things that I would do if owning this phone for business would be to strip the app side back to the essentials. One of those essentials would be the Ulefone’s Service Centre app, which provides support when you need it, along with the user manuals.

• Features: 4 / 5

Ulefone RugKing Pad Pro: Performance

(Image credit: Alastair Jennings)Benchmarks

Geekbench CPU Single: 441
Geekbench CPU Multi: 1501
Geekbench GPU: 721
PCMark Overall: N/A
3DMark Slingshot Overall: 1884
3DMark Slingshot Graphics: 1742
3DMark Slingshot Physics: 2633
3DMark Wild Life Overall: 160
3DMark Steel Nomad Light Overall: 67

The Ulefone RugKing Pad Pro is a relatively compact Android-based tablet, and as I started the performance test, a couple of points about the design immediately stood out. The first was that the size made it easy to handle, and even without the hand strap, which would have been handy, it was still easy to hold single-handed.

The textured back, which was supposed to give a little more grip, didn’t seem to do much; however, the build quality is solid, and with the usual rubberised corner protection, it all seemed durable enough.

Powering this small tablet is a Unisoc T7250 CPU, which delivers solid if not cutting-edge performance that’s fine for the market the RugKing Pad Pro is designed for. Checking out all the usual apps, including Google’s productivity apps, Docs, Sheets, Drive, and all loaded quickly and ran without issue.

However, I will say that the 1340 x 800 screen resolution only just provided enough working area for comfortable document editing. When used with those Google apps, the overall feel is well-balanced, the physical size, screen clarity and interface responsiveness work together well, and some of the more unique features were genuinely helpful.

The gloved-hand mode increases the screen's sensitivity, so even with non-touchscreen gloves, the screen still responds. I did find that for thicker gloves, the usual non-response was still present; still, it’s better than most.

Using Lightroom, Photoshop, and CapCut shows that despite the entry-level CPU and GPU, the tablet still has some potential, and the Geekbench results (Single: 441, Multi: 1501, GPU: 721) are far from ground-breaking but show good, solid performance across the board.

Where the tablet does start to struggle is with graphics-intensive tasks, and the 3DMark scores in Slingshot showed an overall score of 1884 and a Wild Life score of 160, all confirming that the Mali-G57 MP1 GPU is a competent mid-weight GPU. Flipping back to the real-world tests, sure enough, Photoshop Express, Lightroom mobile, and CapCut video editing were possible, and even NFS Asphalt ran surprisingly well.

GPS performance was generally reliable, though there was significant cloud cover during much of the test period, which made satellite connectivity a little sporadic. On clear days, the RugKing Pad Pro locked on quickly and matched the positioning accuracy of comparable rugged smartphones. 4G connectivity and speed, while not close to what I’m used to with 5G, performed well, and the signal strength in Salisbury, England, was excellent, though, heading to the outskirt towns around the New Forest, where we’re limited to 4G.

Over a 10-day period, the RugKing Pad Pro joined me for work and under normal mixed usage, mainly checking and answering emails, alongside the benchmarking test and using a variety of applications, browsing, Google Docs, and some media playback, the device finished with 12% battery.

One point of note is that the screen powers off by default after 30 seconds, which is incredibly short, so I extended the switch-off time, which has a dramatic effect on battery life.

As a final note, while the tablet does have a camera, the 16MP rear camera resolution and quality is best described as adequate, perfect for taking pictures for site documentation, reference shots, scanning, but it’s worth knowing that the brighter it is, the cleaner the images you capture will be, and this is relevant for both images and stills.

• Performance: 4 / 5

(Image credit: Alastair Jennings)Ulefone RugKing Pad Pro: Final verdict

(Image credit: Alastair Jennings)

The Ulefone RugKing Pad Pro is at the budget end of rugged tablets, yet, despite the price, it's a great option if you’re looking for a well-thought-out tablet that delivers decent performance for productivity apps and can withstand most environmental conditions.

The build quality and design are genuinely impressive for the price, and as long as the rubber lugs are pushed in securely, it will be water-tight as well as shockproof, making it ideal for trades. One aspect that sometimes lets these rugged smartphones down is the screen, and once again, the resolution is low; however, the brightness is good, and it's easy to see outdoors, even in bright conditions. The battery life over a 10-day test was also superb.

When it came to the more advanced performance, the Unisoc T7250, while a capable mid-range processor that handles productivity tasks well does start to hit its limitations under heavier creative workloads, however, that’s not really what this device is for and if you just want to enhance a few image or make short site videos then the camera and processing power will more than suffice.

I am a little surprised that a new release is still limited to 4G rather than 5G, but this will be due to price considerations, although it will limit the product's actual lifespan as 5G becomes more widely available. At present, I’m lucky to see E for my network connectivity. Despite it only offering 4G support, you can add an eSIM, which is incredibly easy to do, and the system seems well set up to do this; although you can’t run a standard SIM at the same time as the eSIM, it’s one or the other.

Some of the additional features are unique to this product line, such as the uSmart accessory ecosystem, which, as with previous releases, works incredibly well and, for trades, will be a great asset. Then, with the dock charging compatibility, it further lends itself to use in the workplace.

Should I buy a Ulefone RugKing Pad Pro?

Value

Great value for money for a solid workplace tablet that can withstand the elements

4

Design

The rugged design is slimmer and lighter than many other tablets of this style, making it far more portable

4

Features

A decent set of features, a bright screen, and the ability to connect USmart accessories

4

Performance

While rugged, the CPU and GPU limit the performance

3

Overall

Considering the entry-level price, the tablet has a good range of features and solid all-around performance

4

Buy it if...

You need a tough tablet.

If you need a tablet for work that’s tough, able to withstand the elements, and able to withstand being knocked about, then this is a great option. 

Small and rugged

Unlike other rugged tablets, this can easily be held in one hand while still offering a decent 8.68-inch screen. 

Don't buy it if...

You need fast networking.

While there is an eSIM available, the cellular network connection is limited to 4G only.

You use creative apps.

While Lightroom runs smoothly on the system and short edits are possible in CapCut as soon as you start pushing the adjustments, the device starts to show its limitations. 

For more durable devices, we've tested and reviewed the best rugged laptops and best rugged phones

RayNeo Air 4 Pro: 30-second reviewSpecs

(Image credit: Alastair Jennings)

Display: 0.6-inch Tandem Micro-OLED per eye; 201-inch equivalent at 6 metres
Resolution: 1920 x 1080 per eye (2D); 3840 x 1080 combined (3D)
Brightness: 1,200 nits peak
Contrast: 200,000:1
Colour space: 98% DCI-P3; 145% sRGB
Colour accuracy: Delta E < 2
Refresh rate: 60Hz / 120Hz
HDR: HDR10 with HueView 2.0
Processor: Vision 4000
Audio: 4-speaker system, tuned by Bang & Olufsen; Whisper Mode and Surround Mode
Eye protection: TUV SUD Low Blue Light and Flicker-Free certified
Colour modes: Standard, Movie, Eye Protection
Connectivity: USB-C DisplayPort; compatible with iPhone 15/16, MacBook, iPad, Android, consoles
Prescription support: Magnetic lens frame; compatible with Lensology custom lenses
Weight: 76g
Dimensions: 176.5 x 154.3 x 47.4mm
Batman Justice Edition extras: Clip-on Batman Bat Shade; standard lens shade; collector's vault packaging
Optional accessory: RayNeo Pocket TV (sold separately)

The RayNeo Air 4 Pro Batman Justice Edition are the latest iteration of the company's display glasses and quite a leap forward compared with the RayNeo Air 3S Pro’s that I looked at, at the beginning of the year.

This new iteration runs alongside the standard RayNeo Air 4 Pro but adds a little Batman branding to the package. The glasses arrive in a large collector's vault that will instantly appeal to any DC fan. The presentation of the special edition box is rather restrained rather than garish, with a large bat symbol on an otherwise all-black box. Inside are the glasses inside the usual protective case, just with the addition of the Batman symbol.

Like the box, the glasses themselves are equally discreet: there’s just a small Batman logo on the right arm alongside the Bang & Olufsen branding, otherwise in every other way they look almost identical to the standard Air 4 Pro. The real differentiator is tucked beneath a cardboard divider, which, once lifted away, reveals the clip-on Batman mask. This is a masquerade-style shade that snaps neatly onto the front of the glasses frame, helping to block out light and amusing anyone who may be watching you.

The mask itself is actually well designed and clips and unclips easily; it’s also incredibly light, so it adds little or no perceivable weight to your nose, and does something genuinely useful beyond the obvious fun. The glasses' lenses are slightly opaque, so that you can see a little of what is going on around you. Once the shade is in place, this essentially blocks ambient light far more effectively than the standard shade, making a more immersive experience in brighter environments. Sat still watching The Dark Knight through a MacBook Pro; the effect with the mask in place is impressive once your mind gets used to the little big screen effect.

Through the test, I ran the glasses on a MacBook Pro M1 Max, an iPhone 15 Pro, an iPad mini and the RayNeo Pocket TV device, and the setup was consistently straightforward. The glasses power on automatically when the USB-C cable connects, and the display mirrors immediately with no configuration required. The cable that connects the glasses to a host device runs from the back of the right arm, over your shoulder, to the device, and it becomes easy to ignore.

One of the headline features over previous models is HDR10. In practice, watching HDR content via Netflix and Apple TV on the MacBook, the improvement in shadow detail and mid-tone contrast is real, although subtle. The Vision 4000 chip's AI SDR-to-HDR upscaling adds to the visual crispness of most content. Neither transformation is dramatic. Together, however, they do boost the visual quality over earlier RayNeo glasses.

The Bang & Olufsen audio is a clear improvement, and through the test, I found that the standard mode delivered the best balanced, clear sound, and a decent volume that was definitely better than previous AR glasses. Whisper Mode is once again inaudible to anyone nearby, especially in crowded environments, making this a great solution for commuting, although probably not with the mask in place. Surround Mode is the only disappointment. The spatial effect is noticeable, but the volume drop makes it difficult to use unless you're in a quiet room.

One of the other features I was keen to try is the 2D-to-3D AI conversion. For personal video files shot on your phone, it is genuinely impressive, creating convincing depth that surprised me on the first render to show my dog walking in pretty effectively in 3D. For feature films and streaming content, things are a little more complicated. The AI processing doesn’t work on streamed content at all, and even with locally stored files, the processing seemed to hang on content that was too long. The RayNeo Pocket TV accessory, tested separately, enables standalone streaming via Google TV but similarly does not extend 3D processing to that content.

The RayNeo Air 4 Pros are a great set of display glasses which pack down to the size of a glasses case, enabling you to take them anywhere. If you’re travelling, then it’s a great way to take a decent large-format screen with you. The Batman Justice Edition shade is a bit of fun, so if you're a Batman fan, then these will be a great choice. For all others, the standard edition is, aside from the mask, identical.

RayNeo Air 4 Pro: Price & availability

(Image credit: Alastair Jennings)

The RayNeo Air 4 Pro is available directly from uk.rayneo.com. The standard edition is priced at $249 / £249 direct from the RayNeo website. On Amazon.com, they're priced at $299 and £379 at Amazon.co.uk.

The Batman Justice Edition carries a small additional premium - and at the time of review, I'm only seeing it available on the RayNeo website in the US.

The optional RayNeo Pocket TV, which enables standalone Google TV streaming without a connected device, is sold separately.

• Score: 4/5

RayNeo Air 4 Pro: Design & build

(Image credit: Alastair Jennings)

The Air 4 Pro are instantly recognisable as a pair of display glasses with that slightly bulkier design compared with a standard pair of glasses. However, the size and bulk are slowly reducing, and these are noticeably slimmer than earlier generations and rivals I've tested.

The build quality of the frame is all well-constructed and has a premium feel despite the relatively low price. Some of the notable signs that these are not standard sunglasses include the thicker-than-standard arms that have space to fit the electronics, speakers, and control buttons. This means that while these are getting slimmer, they are still very noticeable as something different.

One of the main concerns with any set of display glasses is weight and, therefore, how comfortable they will be when worn for extended viewing sessions. At just 76g, the glasses are genuinely lightweight, and wearing them through a full viewing of The Dark Knight produced only the temporary nose pressure you'd expect from any glasses worn continuously.

The nose pad does offer some adjustment if limited by the ability to move the pads in and out to change the screen distance from your eyes, which is a useful calibration tool. The one consistent note from testing, as with the Air 3s Pro, is that to get the screen in the right position required pushing the glasses slightly down the nose from the natural wearing position. I

The glasses are not self-contained and require a host device to stream content, in the same way as a monitor. Here, a USB-C cable exits from the back of the right arm and trails down to your connected device, be that a laptop, mobile phone or Pocket TV. The positioning of the cable is well thought through, essentially over the shoulder rather than dropping straight down, and after an initial positioning, you genuinely forget about it.

There is something more to this edition of the glasses over the standard with the Batman shade that clips to the front of the frame. Once installed, the slightly opaque lenses are screened off to black, and the size of the mask helps to block out more ambient light than the standard shade. While the shade works and is light, it still adds some weight to the unit, and is probably best left at home when using these on your daily commute.

• Design & build: 4/5

RayNeo Air 4 Pro: Features

(Image credit: Alastair Jennings)

The Air 4 Pro features two 0.6-inch Micro-OLED screens, one 1080p per eye with a max brightness of 1,200 nits, 200,000:1 contrast and 98% DCI-P3 colour. This is essentially the same as the Air 3S Pro that I looked at a couple of months ago.

What this latest release adds is an all-new Vision 400 processor that brings, amongst other enhancements, HDR10 support, better colour mapping and contrast. The other big feature here is the Audio by Bang and Olufsen.

The Vision 4000 chip's enhancements reach right across the feature set, especially with the new AI processing that works in the background to boost the quality of the visuals. AI SDR-to-HDR upscaling is applied in real-time, so it’s one of those features that makes a big difference, but you don’t actually notice it, as it’s so integrated with the workings of the glasses.

The AI 2D-to-3D conversion is another major feature that requires the companion app to use. This is good, but it does seem to be in its early development. For personal video files shot on an iPhone and stored locally, the processing is genuinely impressive, with the depth separation being convincing, and the effect adds genuine visual interest to the footage.

One discrepancy on the site's description of the glasses that is worth noting is that six colour modes are listed: Standard, Game, Movie, Eye Protection, Professional, and Vision Boost, but the review unit had only three: Standard, Movie, and Eye Protection. Game, Professional, and Vision Boost modes were not present in the firmware version tested, but may well be added later. Standard and Eye Protection proved the most useful for general viewing; Movie mode warmed the image far too much for my liking.

The Bang & Olufsen audio partnership is genuinely a great addition with the four-speaker system. Standard mode supplies clear, balanced sound with good depth and enough volume for most environments. Whisper Mode is once again impressive, and sitting in a café, the people I was with were unable to hear any noise from the glasses until they put their heads up close.

One of the audio features that I was looking forward to trying was the Surround Mode, which introduces spatial quality to the audio.

Through the test, I tried the glasses with several devices and for all, the Plug-and-play compatibility was good with the iPhone 15 Pro, MacBook Pro M1 Max, and iPad mini, simply plugging in and being recognised without issue.

Navigation of the on-screen display is handled via a double-click of the left arm menu button to enter settings, volume buttons to scroll, and a single click to select. Switching between 2D and 3D requires a triple press of the volume rocker, followed by the RayNeo XR app to manage content. The control system works, but it takes a while for it to become intuitive.

• Features: 4.5/5

RayNeo Air 4 Pro: Performance

(Image credit: Alastair Jennings)

The simplest way to get started with the Air 4 Pros is to simply plug them directly into the USB-C port at the bottom of your phone, laptop or other device that enables display out. Once the glasses are plugged in, they instantly become a virtual 201-inch screen or at least the illusion of one.

Initially, it does just look like two small screens in front of your eyes, but due to the close proximity and resolution, your brain quickly enables the illusion of the scale of the screen to settle in. Once that brain adjustment happens, the effect of the screens is impressive and makes an ideal option for watching back media.

One hope for these display glasses was that I would be able to use them as a wearable screen for the computer; however, at 1080p, the screen resolution is limited. There’s also the fact that you need to keep your head still as the lenses are fixed to the glasses, so every head movement sees the screens move, which is initially a little disorientating. Unlike VR glasses, there’s no image stabilisation, so the more stationary your head, the better the effect.

The way that these glasses work is that what you’re looking at is actually a projection of the screens, rather than directly at the screens themselves. This means that the lens part of the glasses, while dark like sunglasses, is opaque so that you can see what’s going on around you. However, the density of the shades is high, so while in bright conditions you can see in front of you, in shaded rooms they may as well be blacked out, and all you really see are shadows crossing the display.

As with previous editions, there is a plastic shade that clips to the front, helping to block the light and boost the screen visuals. However, these being the Batman edition, as well as the standard shade, there's also the Batman option. This mask is larger than the standard version and helps to illuminate even more light. The effect is good and really does have a dramatic effect on just how immersive the experience is.

The visuals are good, but then so were the visuals of the Air 3S Pro, which share a similar resolution and specification screens. However, with the new Vision 4000 processor, the visual quality gets a boost with HDR10 content, which displays brighter and with greater dynamic range.

In practice, HDR10 content viewed via Netflix and Apple TV on the MacBook Pro showed better shadow and highlight detail than the standard display, and the videos were slightly stronger in contrast and brightness. While there is an improvement, it is subtle, so if you’re expecting a huge difference, then you’ll be disappointed.

HDR content on the MacBook Pro via Netflix and Apple TV is a great place to check the full effect, although again limited by the 1080p resolution, which is apparent. The Dark Knight was used to test the visuals, primarily due to it being a Batman film, but it was also partly shot on IMAX film with extremely deliberate lighting. The effect was notable, but you would only notice it if you were looking for it.

Flicking through the glasses options, there’s a good amount of choice, and those looking to use this with a gaming console will be pleased to see the 120Hz refresh rate option. At 60Hz, action sequences showed a small amount of motion judder, although this is slightly masked by the 1080p resolution. Switching to 120Hz did enable smoother motion, and for gaming, you’d probably want to switch to this option; for standard TV and film, 60Hz will more than suffice.

One of the notable features of these glasses is the 1,200 nit peak brightness, and when these are coupled with the dark opaque lenses, you can view the screens in almost any lighting conditions. There is the usual shade in the box, but then, this being the Batman edition, there’s also the Batman mask that can be clipped to the front. This is probably not something that you would want to wear in and around the office or in public, but in the comfort of your own home, it is a bit of fun.

While the main aim of the Batman shade is to support the partnership with the Batman brand, the larger size of the shade compared with the standard version does help to block out a little more light and further adds to the immersive experience. Other than the visuals of the Batman mask, there really is little other benefit, and unless you’re a Batman fan, then it’s probably best to opt for the slightly cheaper standard version.

One of the other features that had stood out was the 3D potential, especially with these being Batman-branded. To access the 3D features, you can either use the App to view your own content or stereoscopic content by double-clicking the left and right rocker levers on the arms. I was hoping that with the Dark Knight having been shot for IMAX, or at least some of the scenes, would somehow be 3D optimised through the AI feature. Testing this feature with the glasses connected to the App and video content from my phone viewed through the app, the effect is impressive; oddly, still images once processed are less impressive. Having tested some smaller files, I decided to see if this near-realtime 3D enhancement of video was also possible for feature films and streaming content.

Unfortunately, I quickly established that this may be pushing the 3D AI conversion a little too far, and streamed content cannot be processed regardless of the source, and even the RayNeo Pocket TV accessory, which brings standalone Google TV streaming to the glasses, doesn’t add any 3D processing.

Looking at the colour options, and again there’s a good choice, and the effects are quite stark, and through this test I actually found the standard mode was the best for film, TV and other content. Switching to the movie option turned everything a little too yellow.

Another of the big features for these glasses is the audio partnership with Bang & Olufsen, and this is genuinely a good boost to the audio quality. Watching several episodes of Monarch and The Dark Knight through the MacBook Pro, the sound quality through Standard mode was impressive, comfortably better than laptop speakers and on a par with a decent set of over-ear headphones. Whisper Mode's ability, which impressed me in the past, once again manages to contain audio within the immediate vicinity. However, the surround sound option that I was looking forward to testing just seemed to run too quietly, and the only place that I could take full advantage was in a quiet room, and even then, the volume just felt a touch too quiet.

In the final part of the test, I tried using the glasses as a secondary display for the MacBook, and I found that for reviewing product manuals and reference material, it was workable. While for reading, the resolution is ok, and the larger area was good, again, you do need to keep your head still. Throughout the review, while these screens are good and the price well balanced, you still can’t escape that the screens are quite small compared with the latest VR headsets, and the fact that there’s no horizon steady or stabilisation will take a bit of getting used to.

Alongside the Air 4 Pros, I also took a look at the RayNeo Pocket TV accessory, tested as part of this review, and this worked incredibly well once set up as a standalone streaming device connected to the glasses via USB-C, and enables you to connect without a phone or laptop, as long as there’s a wifi connection.

• Performance: 4.5/5

RayNeo Air 4 Pro Batman Justice Edition: Final verdict

The RayNeo Air 4 Pro Batman Justice Edition display glasses are great fun if you’re a Batman fan and want something else for the collection. For everyone else, there’s the standard option of the Air 4 Pros, which are slightly cheaper.

If you strip away the fact that the shade is a Batman mask and you’re unlikely to wear it out in public, the effect when clipped to the front of the glasses, with the more extensive coverage over the shades, actually does block more light, so in a way, the mask is practical.

When it comes to the list of enhancements from the Air 3S Pro I looked at earlier in the year, while the screen resolutions remain much the same, the HDR10 display, Bang & Olufsen audio, and a 120Hz refresh rate do make these glasses and far better for media playback when you’re on the move.

The 3D conversion feature again offers great potential, and it works well on personal video footage, but at present, it cannot process streaming content, and even on compatible files, the effect varies depending on the content, but is genuinely impressive.

For DC fans, the Justice Edition is great fun. For everyone else, the standard Air 4 Pro offers identical performance, and at a slightly lower price.

Value

Standard Air 4 Pro at £249 are cheap for this display quality. The Batman Justice Edition Premium is great fun for dedicated fans

4

Design

Slim, well-built, and comfortable for extended viewing sessions. Batman shade looks great and works practically if you’re a fan.

4

Features

HDR10, B&O audio, 120Hz and AI processing are all decent upgrades. The 3D is limited to personal video files, but again shows potential. 

4

Performance

HDR enhancement is visible, and the audio is excellent, although the surround sound option is a little low in volume.

4

Total

The Batman edition is great fun for fans and considering the price the standard edition is good value if you want a set of display glasses 

4.5

Should you buy the RayNeo Air 4 Pro?

(Image credit: Alastair Jennings)Buy it if...

You want a personal cinema for travel 
lightweight, immersive, and genuinely good-looking, these are the best display glasses for media consumption available right now.

You're a DC fan
The Justice Edition packaging, Batman shade and collector's vault make this one of the more enjoyable unboxing experiences in tech, and the mask genuinely improves immersion.

Don't buy it if...

You're buying primarily for the 3D feature.
AI 3D works impressively on your own video files, but does not extend to streaming content or feature films, which is where most viewers will want it.

You want true augmented reality.
These are display glasses that simulate a large screen, not smart glasses with AR overlays or standalone computing. A connected device is always required.

For more picks, we've reviewed the best smart glasses.

TP-Link Omada EAP787: 30-second review

Ceiling-mounted access points have been extremely popular since makers like TP-Link began designing them with PoE in mind.

Positioning the TP-Link Omada EAP787 in a range of these devices, it's either at the top or just below it, since the makers do have the EAP783, which is BE20000 rated.

Depending on the region this equipment is deployed, the EAP787 is either a BE12000 or BE15000 capable device with up to channels covering 2.4GHz, 5GHz and 6GHz frequencies. In the USA(BE15000), these bands offer 5765 Mbps on 6 GHz, 8648 Mbps on 5 GHz and 688 Mbps on 2.4 GHz, totalling 15101 Mbps.

In the EU and UK (BE12000), those numbers are 5765 Mbps on 6 GHz, 5765 Mbps on 5 GHz and 688 Mbps on 2.4 GHz, totalling 12218 Mbps. The hardware is identical; it’s just that in the USA, the FCC permits 320 MHz-wide channels on the 5 GHz band, whereas under European regulators (ETSI/Ofcom), the limit is 5 GHz to just 160 MHz wide.

The caveat to having this much bandwidth available is that the EAP787 must use a 10GbE backhaul to connect to the larger network, and potentially the Internet. And that requires a special switch that supports PoE++ 10GbE.

As with most TP-Links Omada hardware, the EAP787 is packed with Enterprise-class technologies that allow it to be remotely configured and controlled, and this AP also has a frequency monitoring technology that detects interference in real-time and enables the hardware to reconfigure automatically.

The only significant missing feature is APC on 6GHz, something that TP-Link has promised is coming soon via a firmware update.

Given its capabilities, the EAP787 seems implausibly cheap, but it's worth noting that buying these might require larger investments in network infrastructure to make the most of what they can do.

If you have a 10GbE PoE++ switch, then this is probably one of the best access points available. And when TP-Link releases the AFC firmware, it will get even better.

(Image credit: Mark Pickavance)TP-Link Omada EAP787: price and availability

• How much does it cost? $250/£230/€280
• When is it out? Available now
• Where can you get it? Available from Amazon and other online retailers.

As with most TP-Link hardware, the EAP787 is available from major online resellers, including Amazon. In the USA, it costs $249.99 and in the UK it's £ 250.

However, I wouldn’t recommend buying it on Amazon unless you only need a single unit. Many resellers who specialize in network equipment offer excellent deals on bulk purchases and bundles that include a 12V power supply or a PoE injector.

The competition comes primarily from another TP-Link design, the EAP 873, as well as the Ubiquiti Unifi U7 Pro XGS and U7 Pro Max.

The EAP873 is effectively two EAP787s glued together, offering a massive BE22000 spec, but it lacks the dedicated TF scanning, AFC or Bluetooth. It also requires dual 10GbE LAN ports to provide sufficient uplink. The cost of this item is $499.99 on Amazon, which seems appropriate for the bandwidth on offer.

The Ubiquiti U7 Pro XGS costs $299.99 from Amazon, and that’s a BE15000 specification AP (in the USA), and also uses a single 10GbE PoE++ port for power and data.

The Ubiquiti U7-Pro-Max is very similar from a Wi-Fi perspective, having the same BE15000 capability, but bizarrely, the makers have given this model only a single 2.5GbE PoE+ Uplink. It’s only a little cheaper than the Ubiquiti U7 Pro XGS, so I’d avoid that option.

Based on the specifications and cost, the EAP787 seems something of a bargain, but it’s worth considering the extra infrastructure needed to make the best use of this hardware before making an impulse purchase.

(Image credit: Mark Pickavance)

• Value score: 4/5

TP-Link Omada EAP787: Specs

Feature

Specification

Model

EAP787 v1 (BE15000 US / BE12000 EU)

Wi-Fi Standard

IEEE 802.11a/b/g/n/ac/ax/be (Wi-Fi 7)

Wi-Fi Bands

Tri-Band: 688 Mbps (2.4GHz) + 8648 Mbps (5GHz) + 5765 Mbps (6GHz)

Total Throughput

Up to 15,101 Mbps (US) / 12,195 Mbps (EU)

Streams

8 spatial streams (4x4 on 5GHz, 2x2 on 6GHz, 2x2 on 2.4GHz)

Modulation

4096-QAM (Wi-Fi 7), 1024-QAM, 256-QAM

Channel Width

Up to 320MHz (6GHz), 160/240MHz (5GHz)

Uplink Port

1x 10G/2.5G Ethernet (2.5G with PoE+, 10G with PoE++)

PoE Standard

802.3bt (PoE++) (51.7W max; also supports DC power)

Dedicated RF Scanning

2x2 radio; requires Omada controller v6.0+

AFC Support

Yes, via firmware update (planned April 2026)

MLO Support

Multi-Link Operation across 5GHz + 6GHz

Concurrent Clients

510+ (lab tested)

Coverage Area

Up to 2,050 ft² / 190 m²

Bluetooth

BLE 5.2

Management

Omada SDN (controller required for advanced features); standalone web UI

Mesh Support

Yes (Omada Mesh)

Seamless Roaming

Yes

TP-Link Omada EAP787: design

• Large dish design
• Ceiling and wall mounting
• 10GbE PoE++ implications

The EAP787 follows TP-Link's standard Omada ceiling-mount aesthetic of a large circular disc designed for flush ceiling or suspended tile installation. The push-and-rotate mount mechanism makes installation straightforward for IT teams.

Using it with 51.7W PoE++, that’s a significant power draw, and the unit is notably large, which may create challenges in space-constrained or aesthetics-sensitive environments.

It comes with a circular mounting plate with holes for four possible connection options. These include a basic ceiling/wall mount, a 3.5-inch US round junction box, a US gang outlet, and an EU gang outlet.

In a recess on the underside of the EAP787 is the 10GbE PoE++ port, and a 12V input if you wish to power it directly rather than use PoE. A plastic cover is provided for this area, but I’d only use it if you have Ethernet cables terminated with a 90-degree connector, since with it attached, there is no straight path to the port.

Four internal antennas handle the eight Wi-Fi streams, while a separate pair of internal antennas is used for the dedicated RF scanning radio. BLE 5.2 is also built in, enabling future IoT integration and remote out-of-band management possibilities via the Omada app.

(Image credit: Mark Pickavance)

There is a single 10G/2.5G combo Ethernet port, with the operating speed determined solely by the PoE class provided by the upstream switch. As an alternative, there is a 12V power input, but the PSU for this isn’t included in the box. And TP-Link also makes PoE++ injectors if you want to avoid a PoE++ switch but already have 10GbE networking.

Being generous, this is an elegant design that lets buyers enter at PoE+ and upgrade later. But it’s also worth noting that to get the most from this design requires a 10GbE PoE++ switch, and something like the TP-Link TL-SX3206HPP with four ports of 10GbE PoE++ is likely to cost you £500, substantially more than the EAP787.

For a larger deployment, the 24-port TP-Link SX3832MPP is likely to cost you £1,619.95, though this does have eight 10GbE SFP+ ports to handle the network backbone.

The relatively low price of this Access Point is a lure to get on board the Omada train, as to get all the best features and easiest control requires at least an Omada controller and probably an Omada switch.

(Image credit: Mark Pickavance)

Design score: 4/5

TP-Link Omada EAP787: In use

• Omada control
• AFC is not yet ready

For those unfamiliar with the Omada ecosystem, all TP-Link’s Omada-branded equipment follows the same pattern: it can be used in standalone web-interface mode or via an Omada controller. The controller can be either a hardware controller at additional cost, or a software one configured on a system that remains operationally 24/7.

For an IT professional with lots of TP-Link gear managed by Omada controllers, it makes for an easy life, as the system can be managed globally, including over different sites through a single web-based interface.

Luckily for this review, I already have an Omada controller and a number of Omada access points, so adding this one to the gang is merely a matter of plugging it in and then going to the Omada controller app to adopt it. Once joined to the system, the controller will monitor the EAP787, and automatically deploy the pre-defined SSIDs associated with the network.

That saves me some time, but if I were deploying a dozen of these or other Omada hardware across multiple locations, it could save a substantial amount of effort. It’s also incredibly useful for making sweeping changes and collecting data that might justify buying more (or less) equipment to better meet the demands placed on the network.

Some will argue that TP-Link are attempting to lock you into their hardware, and to a degree, that’s an accurate analysis, but most networking hardware makers do much the same thing, and hardware uniformity makes for greater predictability.

Like all the TP-Link Omada equipment I’ve recently tested, the EAP787 was immediately recognised by the Omada controller and began working alongside the others within minutes.

One special feature I’ve not seen previously, but on the EAP787 is dedicated RF scanning. This is an independent monitoring of the usable spectrum for interference without disrupting client traffic. To leverage this continuous adaptation, the Omada controller v6.0 or higher is required, but it is arguably the device's most compelling enterprise capability.

(Image credit: Mark Pickavance)

If there is a blot on this wonderfully cultured Omada landscape, it’s AFC on the EAP787.

AFC, or Automated Frequency Coordination, allows the 6GHz radio to transmit at higher power levels, substantially improving range. That’s important because 5765 Mbps of the available bandwidth is allocated to 6GHz, and if it’s only of use to those standing under the Access Point, then the BE12000 (or BE15000) rating is a little disingenuous.

At the time of writing this review, AFC doesn’t work on the EAP787, although it’s promised in a firmware update coming, allegedly, in April 2026. Until it ships, the 6GHz range will be constrained by standard power limits, as is the case with most current Wi-Fi 7 APs.

(Image credit: Mark Pickavance)

• In Use: 4/5

TP-Link Omada EAP787: performance

• AFC will improve 6GHz, eventually
• EU performance reduction on 5GHz

Performance testing on this hardware is slightly coloured at this point, partly because, depending on what region you are in, there is a different bandwidth topology, and also because AFC isn’t yet ready for public consumption.

The EAP787 uses the same Qualcomm chipset family as its EAP783 brother, though its 5GHz radio is specified at an even higher rate of 8648 Mbps vs the EAP783's 5760 Mbps, suggesting the 5GHz radio has been significantly upgraded.

However, no single client can access that much bandwidth, and in Europe, the 5GHz band is limited to 5760 Mbps anyway.

What’s true wherever the EAP787 is deployed is that the 10GbE port can sustain over 9 Gbps, assuming the wirelessly connected clients are pulling or pushing that much data. As this AP can support more than 500 users simultaneously, that should be possible.

MLO performance, like other 2024-era Wi-Fi 7 APs, will fluctuate until AFC is live. As 6GHz range limitations constrain MLO effectiveness, as noted across the Omada lineup. The EAP787 could be the hardware to fix that issue when TP-Link finally releases the firmware necessary to activate AFC.

It’s worth noting that AFC isn’t yet available on Ubiquiti's alternative devices, so if that feature works as intended when it becomes available, it’s a significant advantage for the EAP787.

While it’s difficult to put hard numbers on its effectiveness, the dedicated RF scanning radio operates independently from the three data radios, meaning real-time interference monitoring does not tax Wi-Fi throughput. This is a notable advantage in high-density or congested RF environments such as convention centres, hospitals, and lecture halls.

In my testing with a suitably Wi-Fi 7 capable laptop, connection speeds of 1.2 Gbps are standard when near the AP, and even at range, 720 Mbps was sustained. The only caveat to that level of performance is that the first ten people will wonder what happened to their amazing connection when more people turn up.

• Performance score: 4/5

(Image credit: TP-Link)TP-Link Omada EAP787: Final verdict

When the wireless network is expanded with devices like the EAP787, then it's likely that other parts will need upgrading to make use of what it delivers. As I mentioned earlier, making the best use of this gear requires infrastructure changes, but new switches and Omada controllers might just be the tip of a considerable iceberg.

Because the majority of Wi-Fi access won’t be for internal systems, but the greater internet, and having a wireless network with access points that can shift up to 15000Mbps, won’t work if you only have 1GbE broadband at the end of that 10GbE infrastructure.

If you choose to embrace the EAP787 or its EAP783 bigger brother, or any of the UniFi U7 Pro equipment, then budget for a wider broadband pipe at the same time.

This hardware is designed for large enterprises and high-density venues, such as convention centres, lecture halls, or hospitals, with 100+ simultaneous clients per AP, where dedicated RF scanning and high client capacity matter.

It fits better with 10GbE infrastructure, since connecting it by 2.5GbE effectively negates the point of this AP, leaving you paying a premium for 2.5G performance available more cheaply elsewhere.

The Omada ecosystems, with their seamless controller integration, no licensing fees, and consistent Omada management, make it a natural upgrade path from earlier EAP models.

I would avoid using the EAP787 in small offices or homes, where a simpler EAP773 or EAP783 suffices. Those environments without 10GbE switching, or where anyone who needs an AP can deploy standalone without a controller and access all features.

This is plenty of AP for a modest price, but making the most of it requires TP-Link to finish its work with AFC, and those who choose this equipment must accept that it could easily lead to significant additional investment.

Should I buy a TP-Link Omada EAP787?TP-Link EAP787 Score Card

Attributes

Notes

Rating

Value

Aggressively priced for the specification of this device

4/5

Design

A simple dish with all the clever stuff inside

4/5

In Use

Works with Omada management, and AFC is promised

4/5

Performance

EU performance is restricted, but US bandwidth is epic

4/5

Overall

Better in the US than the EU, but be mindful of the switch you need with this

4.5/5

Buy it if...

You want Wi-Fi 7
While there is better Wi-Fi 7 hardware available, most of it costs much more than this. However, you may find that those clients who are using Wi-Fi 5 or 6 equipment get less of an uplift than expected.

You want central management
TP-Link has created a highly organised management system for its Omada-branded equipment, and that includes this access point. For a small IT covering a large facility, the ability to monitor and adjust hardware remotely is a huge cost-saving.

Don't buy it if...

You don’t have Wi-Fi 7 clients
Without the right hardware on the client end, there is little point in going with a Wi-Fi 7 access point. And, you might be able to get more bandwidth on 2.4GHz and 5GHz, by spending the same money on a Wi-Fi 6 or 6e access point.

You don’t use 10GbE
To make the best use of this equipment, it requires 10GbE and PoE++. Without those things, there is little point in deploying the EAP787.

For more connectivity solutions, we've reviewed the best business routers

Jabra Evolve3 85: 30-second review

Professional headsets have always had an image problem. The moment you clip a boom arm to your ear, you look like someone who works in a call centre or is directing air traffic. Jabra has clearly decided that aesthetic just isn’t good enough.

With the Evolve3 85, the company has taken all the voice clarity technology it has spent years developing, stripped away the boom mic entirely, and wrapped everything in a design that would not look out of place in a Copenhagen coffee shop.

The headline technology is Jabra ClearVoice, a boomless microphone system powered by a deep neural network trained on over 60 million sentences. It uses multiple concealed microphones to separate speech from background noise without a visible arm, drawing on expertise from GN's hearing division.

Design-wise, the Evolve3 85 is up to 35 per cent slimmer than its Evolve2 predecessor, claims to be the lightest over-ear headset in its class, and folds into a travel case thin enough to mistake for empty. The over-ear fit gives better passive isolation than the on-ear Evolve3 75 sibling, making it ideal for both open offices and noisy commutes.

Looks aren’t everything, but the Evolve 3 85 can also claim battery life figures that are genuinely remarkable. Jabra quotes 25 hours of call time and 120 hours of music playback on a single charge, with a five-minute fast charge providing five hours of use. That effectively means that by the point your line manager has berated your timekeeping, the headphones are ready to get you through at least half the working day from flat.

And, wireless charging is also supported, via the flat exterior surface of the earcups, avoiding excessive wear on the USB-C port

The adaptive ANC deserves particular attention. Unlike most headsets, which pause noise cancellation the moment you start a call, the Evolve3 85 keeps it active throughout. Combined with the Bluetooth 5.4 connection, LC3 codec support, and dual-device pairing, the package's connectivity looks impressively comprehensive.

If all this sounds way too good to be realistic, the Evolve3 85 sits firmly at the premium end of the market at around $500. Compared with the outgoing Evolve2 85 and similar UC-certified alternatives, that’s price continuity.

The Evolve3 85 makes a compelling case on every front except price, but even at this cost, these deserve to be added to our best noise-cancelling headphone collection.

(Image credit: Mark Pickavance)Jabra Evolve3 85: price and availability

• How much does it cost? From $527/£496/€569
• When is it out? Pre-order for April 2026
• Where can you get it? Direct from Jabra and online retailers

The Jabra Evolve3 85 launched on 1 March 2026 at a recommended price of $649 in the United States, £495 in the UK, €569 in Europe (including VAT), and AU$979 in Australia.

Initially only available in black, a Warm Grey colour variant is due to follow in April 2026 in select markets. The Evolve3 75, the on-ear sibling, is available from the same date at the lower price of £349 / $463.

Checking the larger online retailers, the Evolve3 85 Microsoft Teams model is available for pre-order at only $475 on Amazon.com, for a model with only wired charging, and $527 for one with wireless charging.

Oddly, the wired All Platforms model is the same price as the Microsoft Teams model, but the wireless option is a disturbing $720. I suspect that the final price is a mistake, since in other regions the prices for the two standards are the same.

In the UK, this headset is on Amazon.co.uk, but can be bought directly from the official Jabra website. The Microsoft Teams wired charging model is £429, and the wireless model is £466.80; all prices include VAT, and the same pricing applies to the Unified Communication models.

These are enterprise-grade prices, and Jabra makes no apologies for that. The Evolve2 85, which the Evolve3 replaces, was similarly positioned, and buyers of business equipment will likely have IT budgets rather than personal wallets in mind. That said, Jabra has clearly made a conscious effort to position the Evolve3 as a crossover product, and at this price, it will face meaningful competition from premium consumer headphones that carry genuinely impressive audio credentials.

For organisations deploying at scale, Jabra offers free trials for companies of 500 or more employees who are replacing existing devices, and the Plus Management platform simplifies fleet deployment considerably.

Individual buyers are perhaps less well served by the pricing, particularly when similarly styled competitors undercut it by a meaningful margin. But these are meant to catch the corporate ear, pun fully intended.

(Image credit: Mark Pickavance)

• Value score: 3/5

Jabra Evolve3 85: Specs

Model

Jabra Evolve3 85

Weight

220g

Form factor

Over-ear, closed-back

Microphone

Boomless (Jabra ClearVoice, multi-mic DNN)

ANC

Jabra Advanced ANC, adaptive (active during calls)

Battery life (calls)

Up to 25 hours

Battery life (music)

Up to 120 hours (ANC/Busylight off)

Fast charging

5 hours use from 5-minute charge; 10 hours from 10 minutes

Wireless charging

Yes (flat exterior surface supports Qi pads)

Connectivity

Bluetooth 5.4, LC3 codec, pre-paired USB adapter, Bluetooth Native

Dual connectivity

Yes

UC certification

Microsoft Teams, Zoom, Google Meet

Software

Jabra Plus mobile app (Android / iOS); desktop app later in 2026

Replaceable parts

Battery, ear cushions

Colours

Black (March 2026); Warm Grey (April 2026, select markets)

Sustainability

Recycled/bio-circular materials; TCO Gen 10 certified

Jabra Evolve3 85: design

• No boom arm
• Robust construction
• Excellent ergonomics

The first thing most people will notice about the Evolve3 85 is what it is missing. There is no boom arm, and no retractable mic stalk. Considering that one feature probably accounts for the demise of at least half the headsets I’ve seen, eliminating it is a win.

No visual shorthand that announces to the world you are working on a helpdesk. Instead, what you get is a clean, minimal over-ear headset with a matte finish, breathable cushions, and a profile that would sit comfortably alongside any premium consumer headphone.

Jabra describes the aesthetic as contemporary Danish design, which made me immediately think of Princess Leia’s hairstyle, but these aren’t like that at all.

This is a noticeably slimmer design than the Evolve2 it replaces, measuring up to 35 per cent thinner according to Jabra's own figures. The result is a headset that folds into a compact travel case that can slip into a work bag without occupying a dedicated compartment.

My only other concern about the carry case is that it doesn’t have an obvious place for the wireless charger, and the compressed paper/fabric material it's made of isn’t as robust as the Evolve3 85.

(Image credit: Mark Pickavance)

While some headsets use plastic throughout to keep weight and cost down, the amount of metal in these and the quality of the plastic materials used feel appropriately premium for the price point, and the overall construction suggests a product designed for long daily use rather than occasional handling.

Jabra has also included replaceable ear cushions and a replaceable battery, both of which are welcome additions from a longevity perspective and bring the product into compliance with current repair legislation.

Finding that kind of consideration in a business headset is encouraging; finding it in any headset at this price is much less common than it should be.

Another feature I appreciated is the 360-degree busylight that signals availability status from every angle, removing the need to actively communicate when you are on a call.

Small details such as this speak to a design team that has actually thought about how people use headsets at a desk, rather than simply engineering for the product brochure.

My review hardware was specifically designed for Microsoft Teams use, and has that logo on a button on the right side. In fact, most of the controls are on the right side, with the exception of the ANC control and the power button, which are on the left. In this respect, the Evolve3 85 is primarily designed for right-handed people.

Overall, these are a surprisingly elegant piece of audiowear that mixes personal and business use effortlessly.

Design score: 4.5/5

Jabra Evolve3 85: Hardware

• Bluetooth 5.4
• Microsoft Teams vs the World
• ClearVoice

Bluetooth 5.4 with the LC3 codec forms the backbone of the wireless connection, and the package includes a pre-paired USB adapter for secure, low-latency connectivity with a PC. Bluetooth Native allows direct device connections without the adapter for users who prefer a simpler setup.

Dual connectivity is supported throughout, meaning the headset can maintain simultaneous connections to both a computer and a smartphone without requiring manual switching.

One-touch voice access is integrated for AI assistant interactions, and Jabra claims accuracy of over nine out of ten words in voice prompts. That is a specific and testable claim, and one that experienced business users will scrutinise closely. UC certification covers Microsoft Teams, Zoom, and Google Meet, which cover the main platforms used in the UK and European enterprises.

Controls are handled through physical buttons and a straightforward interface. The Jabra Plus mobile app provides equaliser controls, wind noise reduction settings, and firmware update management from a smartphone.

A desktop version of the app is scheduled for later in 2026, which is a notable gap at launch for users who work primarily at a desk. IT teams managing fleet deployments have access to Jabra Plus Management, which handles remote configuration and firmware pushes from a central dashboard.

(Image credit: Mark Pickavance)

The ClearVoice system is the most significant departure from previous generations, since those relied on a physical boom arm to capture voice close to the mouth. The Evolve3 replaces it entirely with a multi-microphone array driven by a deep neural network.

That network was trained on over 60 million sentences and draws on GN's background in hearing aid technology, which gives Jabra a genuine advantage over competitors building similar systems from scratch.

The practical implication is that callers should not notice the absence of a boom arm. Background noise, whether from an open-plan office, a busy cafe, or a commuter train, is intended to be filtered out by the processing rather than physically excluded by proximity microphone placement. Whether that processing holds up in the worst acoustic environments is the most important unresolved question about this product.

Jabra has also added wind noise reduction as a configurable setting in the app, suggesting the microphone system is intended for outdoor use as well as traditional office environments.

That is a meaningful expansion of the use case compared to most UC-certified headsets, and shows how the Evolve3 85 has a foot firmly in both the enterprise and home audio experience.

(Image credit: Mark Pickavance)

• Hardware: 4/5

Jabra Evolve3 85: Performance

• Effective ANC
• Excellent charging options

Jabra has made a clear effort to ensure the Evolve3 85 performs as a music headphone as well as a call headset, and the specifications support that ambition. The LC3 codec provides high-fidelity wireless audio, the over-ear closed-back design offers meaningful passive isolation, and the 120-hour music battery life suggests Jabra expects people to use this for listening as well as talking.

Enhanced Spatial Sound is included to make long calls feel more natural and less tiring. The objective is to present voices as though they are positioned in front of you rather than directly inside your ears, which reduces the cognitive load of extended video meetings. It is a feature that sounds modest in description but makes a genuine difference across a full working day.

The equaliser available through the Jabra Plus app allows personal tuning of the sound profile, which is a welcome addition for anyone who wants to adjust the factory calibration to suit their taste or their music library. The desktop app, when it arrives, should make that process more convenient for office-based users.

The adaptive ANC on the Evolve3 85 adjusts in real time based on both the external environment and the fit of the headset. The second of those factors is more significant than it might appear. Most ANC systems apply a fixed cancellation profile regardless of how well the ear cushions seal against your head. Jabra's approach calibrates continuously, which means the performance should remain consistent even as the headset shifts slightly during a long session.

As an example of how well this works, in my small office, I have a Bambu Lab H2D 3D printer only a metre to my left, and with this headset on, it can be printing at full speed, and it's almost silent to me. Not to say that’s a noisy printer, but it’s much less distracting with the headphones on.

The distinction between this and most competitors is that the ANC does not pause during calls. Active noise cancellation on most business headsets disengages the moment a call begins as the microphone signal takes priority. Jabra has engineered around that compromise, and the result is a headset that should maintain a consistent listening environment whether you are in a meeting or working between calls. That matters considerably in open-plan environments where ambient noise levels can be unrelenting.

The headline battery figures are among the most impressive in the over-ear headset market. Twenty-five hours of call time is sufficient for multiple full working days, and 120 hours of music playback is a figure most consumer headphones cannot approach. Both are measured with ANC and the busy light disabled, so real-world figures will be somewhat lower, but even with both features active, the Evolve3 85 should comfortably outlast a working week on a single charge.

(Image credit: Mark Pickavance)

Fast charging delivers five hours of use from a five-minute charge, which addresses the specific anxiety of reaching for the headset before an important call and finding the battery low. Wireless charging is supported via the flat exterior of the earcups, which means placing the headset face down on a standard Qi pad while at a desk.

For those looking to reduce the cost of these, Jabra wants another $50 for the model that comes with the official charger, whereas a good quality Qi pad made by Anker is only around $20, and it works just as well.

That the battery is also user-replaceable is a genuinely useful feature for long-term ownership and one that separates the Evolve3 from the majority of similarly priced competitors. Having to bin a generally serviceable headset because the battery won’t hold sufficient charge is something that should never happen.

I’m not going to give you my view of its abilities for the reproduction of music, since I’m not an audiophile, and my ears were never professionally tuned. I’ll just say that with drivers of this scale, there isn’t the level of bass you might expect from larger cans, but the range it does offer is consistent.

Overall, these are great for a working environment and acceptable for more general use.

• Performance: 4/5

Jabra Evolve3 85: Final verdict

The Jabra Evolve3 85 ticks so many boxes, it's hard to know where to begin.

It’s stylish, the ANC works exceptionally well, it will last three working days on calls on a single charge, and it can grab enough power in a few minutes to make it to lunch.

The caveat to these beautifully engineered headphones is the cost, above all else.

Yes, the desktop app for these should have been ready at launch, but the phone app is here, and the desktop app is promised soon.

I just wish they were cheaper, since many budget-controlling managers are likely to exclude them purely based on cost. And doing so might prove to be a strategic mistake.

Should I buy a Jabra Evolve3 85?Jabra Evolve3 85 Score Card

Attributes

Notes

Rating

Value

Expensive for call centre headphones

3/5

Design

A major upgrade from the Evolve2

4.5/5

Hardware

Always on ANC and ClearVoice

4/5

Performance

Effective ANC and plenty of charging options

4/5

Overall

Business headset that feels like much more

4.5/5

Buy it if...

You work in a noisy environment
The need for consistent noise cancellation during calls and between them is paramount in a call centre or similar environment. With these, it's easier to understand the caller and focus on their needs.

Your business likes efficiency
These are the perfect choice if your organisation needs UC-certified headsets that can be centrally managed and remotely updated. And if you value repairability, the replaceable battery and cushions make this a product designed to last.View Deal

Don't buy it if...

You are working with a budget
For those buying personally rather than through a business, the price tag is genuinely prohibitive. However, you can make some cost savings on the charging technology, and being able to replace the battery and cushions might make them last longer in the end.

For more business audio solutions, we've reviewed the best headsets for working from home.

Huawei FreeBuds Pro 5: Two-minute review

Let’s be clear from the start. For everyday listening, the Huawei FreeBuds Pro 5 are the best earbuds you can get without spending significantly more. They tick every box, deliver across the board and make a compelling case that there’s life beyond Apple for those who have been reluctant to shop around.

They’re the fifth generation of Huawei’s FreeBuds Pro line, which has been around since 2020 and we’ve always rated them well. In fact, I tested the FreeBuds Pro 2 back in 2022. The FreeBuds Pro 4 landed in November 2024 and scored four stars in our review. They were strong but not quite there. The Pro 5 are different and good enough to go head-to-head with the best at this level, including the Apple AirPods Pro 3.

The FreeBuds Pro 5 look and feel more premium than their price suggests, and so does the charging case. They’re smaller and lighter than the Pro 4 at 5.5g per bud, which is noticeable. Build quality is excellent, the stems have a high-shine finish and the case has a satiny coating that feels upscale.

Most importantly, the design translates into a supremely comfortable wear. As someone with small, particular ears who put these through gym sessions, runs and full working days, I can tell you the fit is impressive.

The feature set is extensive. There’s smooth multipoint connectivity, customisable gesture controls that are responsive and the Huawei Audio Connect app is one of my favourites at this level. Battery life reaches around 8.5 hours with ANC off and nearly 6 with it on, with 38 hours total from the case. That’s not as good as rivals for ANC listening time, but the amount of power the case holds is great.

ANC is one of the headline upgrades here. The FreeBuds Pro 5 use a dual-driver system and they work together as noise-cancelling engines, paired with an AI sensing model. In practice, it’s close to silence but without that airless, pressurized quality that heavy ANC can sometimes produce. Call quality benefits from the same tech, I found it to be clear and natural, even in busy environments.

Then there’s sound, which is very good indeed. The dual-driver acoustic system delivers a wide, rich soundstage with strong low-end response, excellent instrument separation and detail that holds up across genres, from driving rock to expansive orchestral soundtracks. I think you’d have to spend significantly more or go wired to do meaningfully better.

Our audio editor Becky Scarrott called these “hands-down Huawei’s best buds yet” after five days of early testing at launch. After several weeks with them, I wholeheartedly agree. They earn their five stars because they’re excellent value, genuinely well-made and perform at a level that earbuds costing more would be proud of.

Now, are they perfect? Not quite. Lossless audio requires a Huawei device, which many don’t have. The design is fractionally chunkier than some rivals at this price too and you don't get foam tips in the box like you did with the Pro 4. But if those are the only cons (and they are), they’re doing well. I’d bet none of these would register on the radar of most everyday listeners.

That’s precisely who I think these buds are for. Not the audiophile chasing the absolutely best sound or the dedicated athlete who needs purpose built workout buds. But the everyday listener who wants the best all-rounders. They've got wide appeal, strong value and no meaningful ecosystem restrictions.

Huawei FreeBuds Pro 5 review: Price and release date

(Image credit: Future)

• Released globally in February 2026
• Sells for £179.99 in the UK
• No price hike from past models

The Huawei FreeBuds Pro 5 were released in February 2026 in many markets across the UK, Europe and Asia. Though there are still ongoing trade restrictions between Huawei and the US.

The buds cost £179.99 in the UK. But it's worth noting that, at the time of writing, the official Huawei website is offering a £30 off coupon for the FreeBuds Pro 5. This may not last long, but it makes an already great value pair of buds even easier to recommend.

Whether you find them for £179.99 or get the £149.99 deal, they're a good price for earbuds designed to compete with high-end rivals.

Let's put that into context. The latest AirPods Pro cost $249 / £219 / AU$429. So they're undercutting those while being a very solid alternative, particularly for Android users. Similarly, the Samsung Galaxy Buds 4 Pro, which are going to be seen as the top AirPods Pro alternative for Androids users, sell for $249 / £219 / AU$399.

They're pricier than some of our favorite mid-range picks, like the Cambridge Audio Melomania A100 at $149 / £119 and the Nothing Ear (a) at $99 / £99. But I'd say they're positioned as a step above both of those options, so that would make sense here.

Huawei FreeBuds Pro 5 review: Specs

Drivers

11mm dynamic woofer and micro-planar tweeter

Active noise cancellation

Yes

Battery life (ANC off)

9 hours buds, 38 hours case

Weight

5.5g per bud, 43g case

Connectivity

Bluetooth 6

Frequency response

10 Hz to 48 kHz

Waterproofing

IP57 buds, IP54 case

Huawei FreeBuds Pro 5 review: Features

(Image credit: Future)

• 9/38-hour battery life, less with ANC or features
• Plenty of useful features in the easy-to-use app
• Fantastic ANC

The FreeBuds Pro 5 are packed with features, and almost all of them live inside the Huawei Audio Connect app, which is one of the cleanest companion apps I’ve tested. Everything is easy to find and nothing is buried in sub-menus.

Huawei claims the FreeBuds Pro 5 are the world’s first dual-driver ANC earbuds, meaning both the dynamic driver and the micro planar diaphragm unit work together to tackle noise. The low-frequency driver targeting rumble and bass-heavy interference, the high-frequency driver handling sharper sounds. This hardware is then paired with a real-time AI sensing model that samples ambient noise 400,000 times per second (yes, you read that right!), which means it’s continuously adapting to whatever environment you’re in.

In practice, it’s incredibly effective. I tried them in all sorts of environments and low rumbles, like traffic, air conditioning, the hum of a commute, are all handled incredibly well. The overall effect is close to silence without tipping into the slightly pressurized, airless quality some ANC can produce. I know some people do prefer that, but what Huawei does here is my preference. There’s also a good passive isolation baseline here thanks to the secure fit.

There are four ANC models to pick. Dual-Engine, which adapts automatically to your surroundings. Cozy, which is for quieter environments. General for everyday noise and Ultra for loud environments. With Ultra you might notice more of a pressure sensation, which is worth knowing if you’re sensitive to that feeling, but it does do a good job at eliminating almost all ambient sound.

There’s a good Awareness mode here, which has a bunch of options within it. Standard, Voice Awareness, which filters in voices while suppressing other noises, and Adaptive Awareness, which adjusts dynamically.

Conversation Awareness is also on board. When you start speaking, the buds automatically switch from ANC to Awareness mode and lower the volume, then gradually fade back after around ten seconds once you stop. I found I could hold a natural conversation without touching the buds at all, and the transition back was gradual and smooth rather than jarring. Sony’s Speak to Chat works similarly.

The FreeBuds Pro 5 move up to Bluetooth 6.0 from the Pro 4’s 5.2, and multipoint pairing of two devices is supported. Switching between my laptop and phone during testing was smooth with no lag. There’s also Find My Earbuds, which emits a round from whichever bud you’ve lost. I used it several times when one slipped under my desk, it’s one of those features you’ll be more grateful for than you’d expect.

A new internal antenna promises a 38% improvement in Bluetooth range alongside better interference rejection. I had no dropouts during testing across gym sessions and on the move.

(Image credit: Future)

On the codec side, iPhone users get AAC, Android users get LDAC and Huawei devices get access to lossless audio via L2HC 4.0 at 2.3Mbps. So that lossless tier is firmly Huawei ecosystem only. For the rest of us though, LDAC and AAC are still solid options and the good news is very few other features here are gated behind a Huawei device.

Control across the stems are tap, pinch and swipe, which is a good range for buds. You can customize these in the app and I really liked that they registered with a satisfying, audible little click. Head gesture controls let you answer or reject calls with a nod or a shake, which worked well most of the time. Wear detection pauses playback when you remove a single bud, and you can listen with ANC active in just one earbud, which I liked. There’s also a low-latency mode here for gamers.

Huawei says the FreeBuds Pro 5 last 9 hours with ANC off and around 6 hours with it on, with 38 hours in total from the charging case. During testing, I got just over 8.5 hours with ANC off at 50% volume. I then got nearly 6 hours with ANC on. So that’s close to the claimed figure, though it is worth bearing in mind that these real-world results with ANC active do tend to vary based on environment and mode – I had the Dual-engine setting on for testing.

For context, the AirPods Pro 3 offer 8 hours with ANC on and 10 hours with it off, with 24 hours in total from the case. The Samsung Galaxy Buds 4 Pro come in at 6 hours with ANC on and 7 hours with it off, and 30 hours from the case.

So the FreeBuds Pro 5 don’t beat those figures, but do hold up fairly well. Though the case’s 38 hour total is an advantage over the AirPods. Worth knowing if you travel a lot and know you may have to rely solely on the case for a few days.

One final point worth making when it comes to the battery is that thanks to the solid fit and passive isolation, you won’t always need ANC. I found that for lower noise environments, running on ANC off really extended my listening time without a sacrifice.

• Features score: 4.5/5

Huawei FreeBuds Pro 5 review: Design

(Image credit: Future)

• Design is smaller, lighter and more comfortable than ever
• IP57-rated buds make them genuinely workout-friendly
• Lovely case with strong magnets and a handy ring light

The FreeBuds Pro 5 are a clear evolution of the Pro line, and that’s a good thing. As long as you’re on board with stems. They work particularly well for smaller ears and make gesture controls far more reliable than tap-based alternatives. That said, stem-free designs might suit some ear shapes better, so this is a subjective thing.

Huawei says the FreeBuds Pro 5 are 10% smaller and 6% lighter than previous buds and at 5.5g per bud, you can feel it. I do think they’re a fraction chunkier than say the AirPods Pro 3 and a few rivals at this level, but once they’re in the comfort level is genuinely impressive.

I wore them for around three hours straight one morning and for a further four in the afternoon without any ache or fatigue, and this is coming from someone with smaller ears who can be sensitive to heavier buds.

(Image credit: Future)

Huawei says it used more than 10,000 ear profiles to inform the fit here, and it shows. Four silicone tip sizes are included, and I found the medium worked well for me, despite usually needing to reach for the smallest pair.

The one minor gripe here on comfort is the absence of foam tips, which have come with some previous FreeBuds Pro models and are still mentioned in the app, which suggests they may arrive later. Most people seem to prefer silicone anyway, but foam can add passive isolation and a slightly more immersive ANC effect. Though this omission isn’t a dealbreaker by any means.

The stems themselves have shifted from rectangular to a flat oval profile, with a high-shine front panel and metallic detailing round the edges that reads as genuinely premium. I tested the sand/gold shade, which adds to the premium feel, though white, silver and a blue option with a vegan leather case are also available too.

(Image credit: Future)

The new IP57 rating on the buds is a real highlight. That covers sweat, splashes and brief submersion, making them as workout-friendly as an everyday pair of buds gets. I took them out on several runs and to the gym throughout testing and they stayed secure throughout.

The charging case is nicely designed too. At 43g it’s light and pocket-friendly with a smooth, rounded shape and soft film coating that feels premium when you gold it. Strong magnets snap it shut and a hidden hinge keeps the lines clean.

On the front, the halo ring light glows in different colors to indicate battery and pairing status, which is both practical and a nice-looking design touch. The case is IP54-rated now as well, offering solid splash and rain resistance.

All in all, there’s very little to fault where design is concerned. If you want stems, these are among the best-looking and best-built options at this price.

• Design score: 5/5

Huawei FreeBuds Pro 5 review: Sound quality

(Image credit: Future)

• New dual-driver acoustic system.
• Dynamic and energetic sound
• Huawei phone needed for lossless audio

The big hardware news for the FreeBuds Pro 5 is a new dual-driver acoustic system, combining a low-frequency dynamic driver with a high-frequency micro planar diaphragm driver.

The low-end response is strong and present from the get-go, with the buds leaning into bass-forward tuning that feels deliberate and punchy. There’s also a bass boosting mode available if you want to push that even further. Impressively, even with that boost applied, the low-end stays controlled. No muddiness or bloat, just a lot of energy and power.

Crucially, they’re not bass-heavy though, a lot of detail survives alongside it. That dual-driver setup handles separation well across the whole frequency range, which keeps mids and highs really clean even when the low-end is doing a lot of work. So the overall character is dynamic and energetic, nothing feels lost in the mix here.

Listening to Queens of the Stone Age’s No One Knows, that dynamic quality is front and centre. Josh Homme’s vocals have a real presence, they’re bright and cutting, but the guitars still drive hard underneath without crowding them out of the picture. Instrument separation is confident here too, and there’s this pleasing sense that the track is opening up at higher volumes rather than compressing. It’s the kind of rock mix that rewards earbuds with genuine low-end grunt, and the FreeBuds Pro 5 deliver that in spades.

But I also loved listening to anything orchestral with them too. Hans Zimmer’s Dune soundtrack is a demanding test, spanning whispered, layered vocals, sweeping strings, dark percussion and heaps of bass, and the Freebuds Pro 5 handle it without flinching.

The Bene Gesserit chants land with an appropriately unsettling, layered depth, while Ripples in the Sand opens into a wide, rich soundstage where every element holds its place. Strings, percussion, and those haunting high vocals all occupy their place in the mix. The soundstage here is genuinely impressive for earbuds at this price, with no detectable distortion even pushed to higher volumes.

(Image credit: Future)

All of the above was tested on default settings, but there’s plenty of room to customize the sound. Eight EQ presets are available, each developed in partnership with the Beijing Central Conservatory of Music. Balanced is the default, which is the most accurate and natural-sounding. That’s the one I kept returning to despite trying and enjoying many of the rest.

Voice brightens things up for vocals. Classical adds a concert hall quality that worked particularly well with those big movie soundtracks, and Bass does exactly what it promises. There are also some purpose built presets for movies, podcasts and games. If none of these work for you, there’s also a 10-band custom EQ that gives you full control.

Spatial Audio with head-tracking is also on-board here and it doesn’t require Dolby Atmos tracks, it works with whatever you’re playing. It’s not usually my preference for music, but paired with the movie preset it added a genuinely immersive quality to films and TV. Worth knowing too that you don’t need a Huawei device to access it.

Call quality is also worth noting here. In a quiet space it’s clean and natural. In a busy market with chatter, loud sounds and low-level rumbling of vans and traffic nearby, some background noise crept in. But my voice remained clear and isolated, which I still found impressive given the conditions. Wind interference caused some wobble on a really blustery day, though I was still perfectly audible. As a serial voice note leaver, these passed that test too.

Between the new hardware, tuning options and the spatial audio, the FreeBuds Pro 5 make a strong case across almost any genre or use case you throw at them.

• Sound quality: 4.5/5

Huawei FreeBuds Pro 5 review: Value

(Image credit: Future)

• Great value for money
• Undercuts rivals
• Already promotions on the official Huawei website

It's a bold claim, but I think the FreeBuds Pro 5 are the strongest all-round option at this price right now for everyday listening.

If you have a very specific priority, such as dedicated workout buds or audiophile-grade lossless sound, you may find better value elsewhere. And if you're one of the few people who think the weaknesses are dealbreakers, like no Huawei phone for lossless audio or a preference for tiny, stemless designs, then it's worth factoring that in.

But everyone else who wants great sound, strong ANC and a comfortable, premium-feeling design with all the essential features, then these deliver a lot.

They're even easier to recommend because they're priced lower than most of their rivals at launch. In fact, Huawei is already offering a discount code on them at the time of writing if you head to their official site, which makes them even harder to argue with on value. Can I give them 5.5 stars out of 5 for this section? No? Fine.

• Value: 5/5

Should I buy the Huawei FreeBuds Pro 5?Huawei FreeBuds Pro 5 score card

Attributes

Notes

Rating

Features

An excellent suite of features, upgraded driver system and lovely app. Battery life with ANC playback is good but is bested by high-end rivals.

4.5/5

Design

Smaller and lighter than predecessors. They fit very well, look more premium than they should and gestures work are nice with that stem.

5/5

Sound quality

They sound great, call quality is improved and there's a lot of customisation. You only get lossless with Huawei phones, though.

4.5/5

Value

Everything you need is here at a price that undercuts most rivals.

5/5

Buy them if…

You want an AirPods Pro alternative
Maybe you’re on Android, want a cheaper option or just don’t gel with the sound signature of the AirPods. Whatever the reason for wanting to ditch Apple, these are a solid alternative pick.

You want all-rounders for everyday listening
If you really care about audio, workouts or ANC you can find high-end options that specialize in those things, sure. But for an everyday listening experience that ticks all of the boxes, they’re really hard to beat.View Deal

You want premium sound, looks and build at a good price
They really do look, feel and sound more premium than they should. And while we wouldn’t describe them as affordable, they’re certainly excellent value for the price. View Deal

Don’t buy them if…

You don’t like the stem design
They have long stems, there’s no getting away from it. Some people love how they look, fit and work with gestures. But if you’re not a fan, you might prefer a more compact look, like the Technics EAH-AZ100.

You want lossless
If you have a Huawei phone these are a no-brainer, have at it. If you don’t and you’d really like lossless sound, you won’t find it here. Try the Cambridge Audio Melomania A100 instead.

You already own the FreeBuds Pro 4
There are upgrades here, so if only the best ANC, transparency and calls are a priority for you, it’s worth it. For everyone else, you shouldn’t rush to upgrade.

Huawei FreeBuds Pro 5 review: Also consider

Huawei FreeBuds Pro 5

Apple AirPods Pro 3

Technics EAH-AZ100

Drivers

11mm dynamic woofer and micro-planar tweeter

'Custom high-excursion' Apple driver

10mm free-edge dynamic

Active noise cancellation

Yes

Yes

Yes

Battery life (ANC on)

6 hours (buds) 25 hours (case)

8 hours (buds) 24 hours (case)

10 hours (buds) 28 hours (case)

Weight

5.5g (buds) 43g (case)

5.6g (buds) 44g (case)

5.9g (buds) 42g (case)

Connectivity

Bluetooth 6

Bluetooth 5.3

Bluetooth 5.3

Waterproofing

IP57

IP57

IPX4

AirPods Pro 3
The Freebuds Pro 5 give them a run for their money. But Apple's AirPods Pro are still some of the best wireless earbuds for iPhone owners, with great ANC, unique features and slightly better battery life with ANC playback.
Read our full AirPods Pro 3 review

Technics EAH-AZ100
Not many earbuds will beat the FreeBuds Pro 5 for sound, but these Technics are the best. They also don't have a stem-like design, which some of you may prefer. Though they are considerably more expensive.
Read our full Technics EAH-AZ100 review

How I tested the Huawei FreeBuds Pro 5

• Tested for three weeks
• Tested at home, on walks, on public transport in a city, working in a cafe and a co-working space, while running and at the gym

I tested the Huawei FreeBuds Pro 5 for just over three weeks to write this review. I mostly had them paired with an iPhone 16 Pro, but I also used them with a MacBook Pro.

I used a range of different music and film apps to test the buds. They played music from Spotify, Qobuz and tunes from internal storage, as well as videos from YouTube, Prime Video and Mubi.

I’ve tested many headphones and earbuds over the past 13 years as a tech journalist. Including devices from top audio brands, like Bose, Sony, Sennheiser, as well as cheaper buds from the likes of JLab, Nothing, Skullcandy and more. I’m interested in tech that prioritises comfort and ease of use.

• First reviewed in March 2026

• Read TechRadar's reviews guarantee

Asus ROG Cetra Open: Two-minute review

I’ve become very fond of open earbuds recently, and was pretty excited when Asus announced the ROG Cetra Open. If you’re not familiar with the open ear style, they’re basically earbuds that clip onto your ears and have drivers that sit a few millimeters away from your ear canal rather than plug with a silicon tip.

They’re incredibly comfortable to wear and help you maintain awareness of your surroundings, which is great when you're out and about and would rather avoid getting hit by passing bikes and the like. The trade-off is generally that you lose out on noise cancellation, isolation, and the earbuds’ ability to effectively produce bass.

Open earbuds seem like a bit of a strange choice for gaming, given the fact that they are usually towards runners or gymgoers, but I think Asus might be on to a winner with the concept. The level of comfort they offer is second to none, and I always appreciate the ability to hear myself while chatting in a match.

Unfortunately, the Asus ROG Cetra Open really stumble, presumably as a result of being the brand’s first pair of open gaming earbuds. For starters, they’re ridiculously expensive at an eye-watering $229.99 / £174.99 - that’s more than many of the best wireless gaming headsets and triple excellent non-gaming alternatives such as the Huawei FreeArc Buds. While the Asus pair does sound much better overall and has vastly superior microphones, they’re still not worth such a higher cost in my eyes.

The case that they sit in is also absurdly massive. It’s big enough to be uncomfortable in your pocket and, at the point you have to carry around a rucksack just to have space for your earbuds, it’s safe to say something has gone seriously wrong in the design department. To make matters worse, it feels very hollow and plasticky, which is unacceptable in a product at this price.

All of this leaves the Asus ROG Cetra Open difficult to recommend outside of a sale or if you’re really, really desperate for an open gaming pair. Hopefully, the brand’s next attempt is cheaper and more feature-dense, because there is real potential here.

(Image credit: Future)Asus ROG Cetra Open: Price and availability

• Cost $229.99 / £174.99 / around AU$330
• Available via the Asus website, Amazon, and Newegg
• Very expensive for gaming earbuds

The Asus ROG Cetra Open earbuds retail for $229.99 / £174.99 and can be purchased via the Asus website in the US and UK, in addition to Amazon and Newegg in the US.

At this price, they’re substantially more expensive than our current favorite premium gaming buds, the SteelSeries Arctis GameBuds, which go for $159.99 / £159.99 / AU$359, and you’re paying a massive premium for the open design.

For PlayStation owners, the $199.99 / £179.99 / AU$249.95 Sony Inzone Buds are another major competitor, while the PlayStation Pulse Explore earbuds are also in the mix, and offer out-of-the-box PlayStation Portal compatibility too.

They’re also pretty pricey compared to other open earbuds, costing much more than the Huawei FreeArc Buds and Honor Earbuds Open, but less than the super premium Bose Ultra Open Earbuds.

Asus ROG Cetra Open: Specs

Price

$229.99 / £174.99 / around AU$330

Weight

0.3oz / 11g (per earbud bud)

Compatibility

PC, PS5, PS4, Nintendo Switch, Nintendo Switch 2, mobile

Connection type

Wireless (Bluetooth / 2.4GHz dongle)

Battery life

16+ hours (48+ hours with case)

Features

Immersion mode, RGB lighting, EQ settings

Software

Gear Link (web)

Asus ROG Cetra Open: Design and features

• Generic, cheap-looking design
• Browser-based software
• A few gaming features

I’ll be completely honest here: I absolutely hate how the Asus ROG Cetra Open looks. They’re bulky and weirdly angular for a pair of open earbuds, and look nowhere near as sleek and stylish as the alternatives by Huawei and Honor. In fact, they look more like they’re by a weirdly named off-brand that you would find scrolling too far down Amazon rather than a major hardware manufacturer. This certainly isn’t helped by the RGB lighting with its overly garish default rainbow pattern, or the fact that the plastic materials used on each bud don’t feel too premium.

The case is just as hideous and, worse still, comically large: it’s only slightly more compact than the average mid-size phone and about four times as thick. This makes it difficult to fit in a pocket and annoying to bring around with you. Sure, lots of open-ear buds have cases on the bulkier side, but I’ve not used any quite as impractical as this. I don’t quite understand why Asus is advertising these earbuds so heavily as suitable for sports, as a result of this, as surely anyone running or at the gym would favor something with a case that's more compact.

(Image credit: Future)

Part of the reason the case is so big is to make room for the 2.4GHz USB-C wireless dongle. The dongle has a pass-through feature, with its own USB-C port that you can use to charge a controller, for example, but it’s an odd L-shape that tends to block more than one port when it’s plugged in.

Rather than a traditional application, the Asus ROG Cetra Open relies on a browser-based program called Gear Link. I really appreciate this, as it removes the need to install any software bloat and gives you immediate access to settings on practically any PC or phone when you need them. Major features it lets you tweak include equalizer settings (with pre-sets for gaming, movies, music, and so on), RGB lighting effects, and Immersion Mode. Immersion Mode seems to be some form of active noise cancellation (ANC), though I found that it wasn’t particularly effective at blocking even low-level background sound.

There’s also optional multipoint connectivity, letting you pair two devices at once for the times when you want to game while listening to music or taking a phone call.

(Image credit: Future)Asus ROG Cetra Open: Performance

• Sound great with a surprising amount of bass
• Secure and comfortable fit
• Microphones are decent

For a pair of open earbuds, the Asus ROG Cetra Open sounds great with some surprisingly punchy bass. The sound is crisp and clean, with decent tuning out of the box - though I would still recommend selecting the flat EQ in its software. It’s hard to overstate just how comfortable they are to wear, too. I have used them for an entire day of work with absolutely no discomfort or fatigue, making them some of the most comfortable earbuds that I’ve ever used.

They’re very secure on the ears too, and can easily withstand walking or even running. The included neck band can be used for some added peace of mind, too, ensuring that they will stay on your person even if they do come loose.

The ability to hear your surroundings is also surprisingly useful, though it does come with some drawbacks. If you’re using these headphones in an office environment, you can easily chat to others without taking them out of yours and when exercising outdoors, you don’t need to worry about drowning out oncoming traffic. In a gaming context, though, it’s a bit of a double-edged sword. You’re going to hear pretty much everything in your surroundings, even if you’re playing at home, which makes it difficult to get truly immersed. The headphones do have an Immersion Mode feature, which seemingly enables some kind of ANC, but it’s not effective at blocking noise at all.

The microphones of the Asus ROG Cetra Open are decent for a pair of earbuds. They’re not broadcast quality by any means, but they do a decent job picking up your voice and will ensure that you can be heard clearly in most situations. The battery life is also nothing to complain about, with around 16 hours of use for each bud and an additional three charges held in the case.

The included dongle makes it easy to use the headphones with consoles, and cuts down potential latency, though I do find its L shape design a little awkward. If you’re not careful, it can block adjacent USB ports, though it does offer USB-C passthrough that somewhat mitigates this annoyance.

(Image credit: Future)Should I buy the Asus ROG Cetra Open?Buy it if…

You're after open gaming earbuds
If you want a pair of open earbuds designed specifically for gaming, there really aren’t any real alternatives to the Asus ROG Cetra Open, making them your best option by default.

You’re desperate for earbuds suitable for both gaming and sport
If, for some reason, you really, really want to use the same earbuds for gaming and sport, then the Asus ROG Cetra Open is one of the few products geared towards both.

Don’t buy it if…

You’re on any kind of budget
The biggest drawback of the Asus ROG Cetra Open is easily its massive price tag. If you’re after a pair of open earbuds, there are plenty of cheaper options out there, and if you can sacrifice the open design, premium gaming earbud models come in much cheaper.

You love being immersed in your games
The open design inherently can’t block noise as effectively as closed models that create a seal in your ear. If you value immersion and cutting out distractions, choose something else.

Also consider...

After some alternatives to the Asus ROG Cetra Open? Here’s one gaming model and one more general pair of open earbuds to consider.

Asus ROG Cetra Open

SteelSeries Arctis GameBuds

Huawei FreeArc Buds

Price

$229.99 / £174.99 / around AU$330

$159.99 / £159.99 / AU$359

£99.99 (around $130 / AU$200)

Weight

0.3oz / 11g (per earbud bud)

0.19oz / 5.3g (each bud); 1.7oz / 48.7g (case)

0.31oz / 8.9 g (per bud)

Compatibility

PC, PS5, PS4, Nintendo Switch, Nintendo Switch 2, mobile

GameBuds for PlayStation: PS5, PS4, Nintendo Switch, PC, Mac, Meta Quest 2/3, mobile; GameBuds for Xbox: Xbox Series X|S, Xbox One, PS5, PS4, Nintendo Switch, PC, Mac, Meta Quest 2/3

Mobile

Connection type

Wireless (Bluetooth / 2.4GHz dongle)

2.4Ghz (via USB-C), Bluetooth 5.3 (mobile)

Wireless (Bluetooth)

Battery life

16+ hours (48+ hours with case)

Up to 40 hours (buds 10 hours; case 30 hours)

7 hours (earbuds), 23 hours (total)

Features

Immersion mode, RGB lighting, EQ settings

360° Spatial Audio, Qi Wireless Charging Case, 6mm neodymium drivers, four-mic ANC, transparency mode, in-ear detection/sensor, IP55 rating, fast charge, companion app with more than 100 presets

Companion app

Software

Gear Link (web)

Arctis Companion App (mobile), SteelSeries Sonar (PC)

Huawei AI Life (mobile)

SteelSeries Arctis GameBuds
My go-to gaming earbuds and easily the best premium pair that money can buy right now. They boast excellent sound, great companion software, and some highly effective ANC to keep you immersed in your game.

For more information, check out our full SteelSeries Arctis GameBuds review

Huawei FreeArc Buds
This more affordable, general-use pair is my current open earbuds of choice for when I’m outdoors. They’re just as comfortable as the Asus pair, but much more stylish. They’re not designed for gaming, though, and you lose some sound quality.

For more information, check out our full Huawei FreeArc Buds reviewView Deal

How I tested the Asus ROG Cetra Open

• Tested for more than a month
• Used for gaming and general music listening
• Compared against other open earbuds and gaming earbuds

I tested the Asus ROG Cetra Open earbuds for more than a month, using them as my go-to headphones for practically everything in that time. I spent hours using them for gaming on both PC and PS5 in addition to taking calls with friends over Discord. I took them with me daily to the office too, wearing them outside to listen to music and for taking meetings at work,

Throughout my time with the earbuds, I compared them frequently to many of the best gaming earbud models, particularly the SteelSeries Arctis GameBuds. I also evaluated them against open earbuds that I have tried, like the Honor Earbuds Open and Huawei FreeArc Buds.

Read more about how we test

First reviewed March 2026

The Nothing Phone (4a) Pro is a budget phone with its sights firmly trained on flagships. It offers a huge 5000-nit AMOLED display, a seriously stylish 0.31-inch / 7.95mm thick aluminum unibody, and a sufficiently powerful mid-range chipset to play games without breaking much of a sweat. More importantly, it continues to champion Nothing’s disruptive attitude to design and brings back the Phone 3’s super-flexible Glyph Matrix.

Let’s start with the Nothing Phone (4a) Pro’s display: at 6.83 inches, it gives you a serious amount of screen estate. I fired up some 2K videos and its picture always looked clean and precise, while its 5000-nit peak brightness is probably enough that you could use it as a reading torch. I did find its colors weren’t quite as rich as my iPhone 16 Pro’s Super Retina XDR display, but it looked pretty lush all the same.

But for me, the (4a) Pro’s design is what earns it a place among the best phones. Its aluminum unibody feels solid yet light, and while I think some diehard Nothing fans might miss the transparent back plate from its predecessors, it keeps just enough of those iconoclastic design touches in its camera and glyph module to really stand out in a world of interchangeable gray rectangles.

Not gonna lie: I had a lot of fun playing with Nothing’s Glyph Matrix. While it could easily be read as gimmicky, the sheer quantity of functions it offers meant I found a bunch of ways to use it that genuinely felt helpful. From being able to tell when my girlfriend had messaged to seeing a custom dollar glyph every time I got a transaction notification from my bank, I could easily keep tabs on important things without getting distracted by the daily noise. It went beyond flashing lights and started to actively feel really useful.

More generally, software on the (4a) Pro is also seriously polished, feeling fun to use yet knowing when to stay out of your way. Built on Android 16, Nothing OS 4.1 offers a whole load of customizability, while still feeling clean and bloat-free. Its AI tools allow you to analyze notes, screenshots, and recordings but – crucially – you can also choose which files you want this AI to access, and how much you want to engage with it.

This is backed up by the phone's admirable performance. While its Qualcomm Snapdragon 7 Gen 4 chipset isn’t exactly top of the range, I found that, coupled with the 12GB RAM of my testing model, it handled productivity tasks and multitasking without complaint. On top of this, the (4a) Pro happily crunched through any game I threw at it on the highest settings without any perceptible lag or frame rate drops; its 5,300mm2 vapor chamber cooling system keeps it from getting too hot during these kinds of heavy loads.

Unfortunately, this can’t be a total love-fest, and I’m a little less enamored with the (4a) Pro’s camera system. On the positive side, the images I shot with it felt sufficiently sharp and detailed – the 3.5x optical zoom produces deliciously crisp images, for example – while night photography is bright and grain-free. However, I did find color reproduction to be a little more subdued than on the best phones on the market, and the exposure on my snaps could be weirdly inconsistent at times.

There’s a slightly mixed picture with the (4a) Pro’s battery, too. While it offers a seriously ample 5,080mAh cell, I couldn’t quite eke out the 21 hours of YouTube vids that Nothing indicated it should deliver – I found it delivered a little over 13 hours of 2K streaming instead. Still, that’s very decent and, thanks to its 50W wired charging, you can quickly top it up to full in a little over an hour.

Fundamentally, the Nothing Phone (4a) Pro is just a little bit different from everything else out there. After finishing up my testing, I honestly felt a bit sad going back to my play-it-safe iPhone, something I never would have predicted going into this review.

Of course, if you want top-of-the-range power and an unimpeachable camera, you’ll want to pick up a flagship. But if you’re after a mid-range handset, I’d happily recommend the (4a) Pro.

(Image credit: Future)Nothing Phone (4a) Pro review: price and availability

• Launched on March 19, 2026
• List price from $499 / £499

Launched on March 19, 2026, the Nothing Phone (4a) Pro is available now. It has a list price of $499 / £499, which will net you the spec with 8GB of RAM and 128GB of storage. While that version isn’t available in Australia, don’t feel left out – you can still get your hands on the edition with 12GB RAM and 256GB storage, which retails for $599 / £549 / AU$949.

As well as those two different versions, you can also pick between three different colorways: black, white, and a dusty pink. The pink looks awesome and I’m glad there are options for those who don’t just want a monochrome handset, but the pick of the litter for me is the white I tested here, as it really shows off that aluminum body and stark, semi-transparent camera module.

(Image credit: Future)Nothing Phone (4a) Pro review: specs

Dimensions

6.44 x 3.02 x 0.31 inches / 163.66 x 76.62 x 7.95mm

Weight

7.41 oz / 210g

Screen

6.83-inch LTPS flexible AMOLED

Resolution

2,800 x 1,260

Refresh rate

144Hz

Chipset

Qualcomm Snapdragon 7 Gen 4

RAM

8GB / 12GB

Storage

128GB / 256GB

OS

Android 16, Nothing OS 4.1

Rear cameras

50MP f/1.88 main, 8MP f/2.2 ultra-wide, 50MP f/2.88 periscope

Front camera

32MP f/2.2

Battery

5,080mAh

Charging

50W fast charging, no wireless charging

(Image credit: Future)Nothing Phone (4a) Pro review: design

• Stunning build quality
• Expansive yet easy to handle
• Gorgeous Glyph Matrix module

I’ll be honest: when Nothing phones first entered the market, I wasn’t totally swayed by their style. At the time the Phone (1) was released, it both felt a little too brutalist and yet not quite as outré as the pre-release hype had led me to expect. I’ve gradually come around on this, particularly as more concrete innovations like the series' Glyph notifications have been introduced alongside those stark looks.

Why do I mention this? To add a little context to what I’m about to say next.

I love the Nothing Phone (4a) Pro’s design. There’s something effortlessly understated about its build, which manages to remain both unique and instantly recognizable. I know some will be sorry not to see the series’ full transparent backplate here – you might want to opt for the base (4a) if you prefer that look – but the (4a) Pro’s aircraft-grade aluminium body still looks suitably industrial while also feeling pleasingly premium to the touch.

It’s also Nothing’s slimmest phone to date, measuring just 7.95mm / 0.313 inches and weighing in at 210g / 7.41oz. As a result, even taking into account its expansive 163.66 x 76.62mm / 6.44 x 3.02 inches height and width, the (4a) Pro never felt anything less than comfortable in my hand. Yet it’s no delicate flower either – its Gorilla Glass 7i screen should help protect it against scratches and drops, while its IP65 rating should entirely keep dust at bay and, Nothing promises, allow it to endure a dunking in 25cm / 9.84 inches of water for up to 20 minutes.

Undoubtedly, the phone's most prominent feature is that chunky camera module on the back. Nothing is very much on board with the full-width camera trend we’ve seen from the Google Pixel series and the iPhone 17 Pro. But while these blocky camera bulges sometimes look a little unsightly to my eye, I have to say, Nothing has nailed it here – not only has the brand broken it up by using its transparent design language, but that expansive Glyph Matrix turns it from dead space into a striking visual feature.

Speaking of: the Glyph Matrix itself is also seriously well designed. Comprising 137 mini-LEDs, it offers fantastic versatility, allowing you to display a wide range of moving and still glyphs to accompany various functions on your phone, which I’ll explore more in the software section below. And it’s also ludicrously bright at 3,000 nits – when I first excitedly showed off what it could do to my partner, she winced as if I’d just let off a flashbulb in her face. Oops. Fortunately, you can turn the brightness down if you don’t want it set to ‘stadium floodlight’.

After using the Nothing Phone (4a) Pro, my trusty iPhone 16 Pro has genuinely felt a little drab by comparison. Given how much I loved the latter’s looks when I first bought it, that shows the high bar the (4a) Pro has set in terms of its design.

• Design score: 5 / 5

(Image credit: Future)Nothing Phone (4a) Pro review: display

• Huge 6.83-inch screen
• Wonderfully bright
• Colors less vibrant than some flagships

Almost immediately, the first thing that will strike you about the Nothing Phone (4a) Pro’s display is its size. It’s huge. At 6.83 inches, it’s only a shade smaller than the Samsung Galaxy 26 Ultra’s gargantuan 6.9 inches, although the 2,800 x 1,260 resolution of its AMOLED panel can’t quite reach the 3120 x 1440 pixels offered by Samsung’s flagship.

Still, during my testing, I found it looked impressively crisp. To really try out what it could do, I watched Planet Earth III on BBC iPlayer and was impressed by how clear the footage seemed, rendering elements like the huge, red glistening eyes of a gliding tree frog in gorgeous detail. It also shows off images with bags of contrast; that AMOLED display is capable of hitting deep blacks that offer a real HDR pop to everything you see.

The Nothing Phone (4a) Pro is also impressively bright. While it didn’t quite hit the supernova-like glare that its 5,000 nit peak brightness would suggest – I’d peg it as not dissimilar to the brightness hit by the 3,000 nit-peak iPhone 17 Pro – it still absolutely glowed. Whether I was testing under our office’s fluorescent lights or one of those rare guest appearances the sun makes in the British sky, it never appeared anything less than luminous.

There’s pretty much only one area in which I found the (4a) Pro's display wasn’t quite able to keep pace with flagships: color. Comparing it side-by-side with my iPhone 16 Pro, its hues felt just a tiny bit too cool by contrast – for example, a burning sunset over a colossal river delta looked a tiny bit less amber and glowing, missing out on the rich realism of the more premium phone. But the fact that the (4a) Pro can be credibly compared with handsets nearly twice its price, even if it can’t quite best them, shows just how impressive its display is.

• Display score: 4 / 5

(Image credit: Future)Nothing Phone (4a) Pro review: software

• Slick, bloat-free OS
• Wonderfully innovative Glyph Matrix functions
• Good AI tools that aren’t forced on you

Software can be the Achilles heel of some Android handsets. I’ve seen a few too many OSes over the years that focused on aesthetics over usability and came crammed with low-quality, third-party apps – forcing apps like Temu on me does not endear me to your phones.

Fortunately, Nothing OS sidesteps all of these issues. It’s lean and intuitive – within a few hours of starting to use the (4a) Pro, I understood pretty much everything about how it worked – but more importantly, there’s almost zero bloat. After setting the phone up, pretty much the only third-party apps in the App Drawer were ones I’d imported from my old phone, while the homescreen was kept wonderfully clean. Take note, Android developers.

It also looks great. I’ve tried minimal, monochrome interfaces on phones like the iPhone in the past, but I’ve often found that, without the cognitive cue color provides, I just spend longer hunting for the app I need. Yet here, Nothing OS not only looks pleasingly stylized, but it also manages to do so without increasing my cognitive friction when navigating, thanks to those clear app icons and the ability to scale up my most commonly used apps.

The Nothing Phone (4a) Pro also offers plenty of AI features. But unlike some brands that make these tools impossible to avoid, Nothing largely confines them to its Essential Space section.

Press the button on the left side of the screen to capture a screenshot, record your screen, or take a voice note – these are then added to the Essential Space app for your easy access, and made available to be analyzed and have key information extracted. This info can then be harnessed by Essential Search or Essential Apps, which are effectively apps created by your prompts, customized to your specific needs. Kudos to Nothing for taking such a balanced approach here between giving users access to these tools and allowing them to choose how much they want to engage with them.

Right, time to put adultish things away – let's talk about some of the fun stuff the Nothing Phone (4a) Pro has to offer.

The Flip to Glyph feature allows you to mute your ringtone and notifications by turning your phone face down – I found this invaluable, given I often place my phone screen down to minimize distractions at work. You can even restrict calls and notifications to only come through from essential contacts like your partner or kids. Should you want to see a caller’s ID or check your battery level without getting drawn in by the screen, you can just wiggle your phone, and it’ll show up on the Glyph Matrix.

That’s far from all the Glyph Matrix can do, though. Always-on Glyph Toys let you assign information like the time, battery level, sun’s position in the sky, or even the phases of the moon to the display. On a more practical level, you can also use it to track the progress of timers or even third-party apps – although currently the only ones that appear to offer integration right now are Google Calendar, Uber, and Zomato, which rather limits this feature’s usefulness right now.

But perhaps my favorite feature is the ability to create your own rules and assign custom glyphs to them. As well as allowing you to assign unique glyphs to specific people – I set my partner's calls and messages to display as a heart, for example – you can also set rules for specific apps, allowing you to differentiate between a WhatsApp and an Instagram notification. You can even set glyphs for specific keywords: I set it so any message mentioning my cat’s name would flash the cat glyph.

Not only is the Glyph Matrix an incredibly fun feature, but Nothing has found countless ways for it to actually materially improve your experience using the device. I definitely think that elevates it from a mere gimmick to something I genuinely used.

• Software score: 4.5 / 5

(Image credit: Future)Nothing Phone (4a) Pro review: cameras

• Crisp, well-defined details
• Sometimes looks over-exposed
• Colors a little pale

Overall, I found images captured with the Nothing (4a) Pro to be pretty crisp. While using the 50MP main camera, edges were largely as well defined as on my iPhone 16 Pro, and it maintains this detail well when using the 3.5x optical zoom. I’m less keen on digital zooms, given the same results can usually be achieved with judicious cropping, but the (4a) Pro’s 7x lossless zoom was almost as crisp as the 16 Pro’s 5x optical zoom, despite some slight haloing around highlights.

On the whole, night photography was pretty impressive too. The (4a) Pro merges seven frames into one, which Nothing claims lets in 500% more light than rival cameras, and you can definitely see that in the finished results. None of the photos I took looked dingy or underexposed, and there wasn’t a hint of grain there, although I would personally prefer a little less brightening of the mid-tones, as a bit more HDR punch would make these photos look even more bold and contrasty.

Unfortunately, the (4a) Pro’s camera system has some definite weaknesses too. Although black levels were consistently deep, highlights were a lot less reliable – some of my shots of feeding swans ended up looking totally overexposed, while my snaps of magnolias in the park didn’t quite capture the same brilliant whites as the ones I shot on my iPhone. I’m used to exposure levels remaining pretty stable from shot to shot, but sometimes the Nothing feels like it can produce weirdly divergent shots from the exact same lighting conditions.

Additionally, colors don’t always look totally true to life. Shooting tulips on the brink of bloom, some of the hues were a lot more muted than I was hoping, looking a little more washed out than the iPhone’s intense reds. And while I look pretty pale and pasty in most selfies, the (4a) Pro’s front-facing cam sometimes made me look a little like Gary Oldman in Bram Stoker’s Dracula.

Fundamentally, you can’t expect a totally flagship experience from a mid-range phone – compromises have to be made somewhere to keep costs this low. But I think the (4a) Pro meets such a high standard in several other areas that this one shortcoming is a lot more noticeable by contrast. It’s a decent camera on the whole – it just doesn’t reach the same heights as the rest of the phone.

• Cameras score: 3.5 / 5

(Image credit: Future)Nothing Phone (4a) Pro review: performance

• No noticeable lag or hanging when multi-tasking
• Great gaming performance
• Stays cool even under a heavy load

The Nothing Phone (4a) Pro’s impressive design isn’t just skin deep – under the hood, it’s packing the Qualcomm Snapdragon 7 Gen 4. While this isn’t the most powerful CPU on the market, it still gives the (4a) Pro the edge over many mid-market rivals – for example, the Samsung Galaxy A56 relies on the weaker Exynos 1580. Add in the fact that you can spec Nothing’s phone with up to 12GB RAM, and you can see why I was expecting some pretty serious performance here.

And I’m delighted to say that the (4a) Pro more than lived up to these expectations. During everyday use, I didn’t experience any hanging or appreciable slowdown. Swiping between various apps, I was able to quickly pivot from watching YouTube videos to navigating on Google Maps. Even when multi-tasking, the phone didn’t seem to break much of a sweat – I cheekily loaded up a game and left it running picture-in-picture while I typed some of this review in Google Docs, and both apps continued to run fluidly, like this wasn’t a slightly outrageous thing to ask of the phone.

On top of that, while we criticized the Samsung Galaxy A56 for its weaker gaming capabilities, I found the (4a) Pro’s gaming performance to be pretty unimpeachable. Loading up Genshin Impact, I found there wasn’t a hint of lag or stuttering, whether I was battling Hilichurls or charging around cities. Meanwhile, Call of Duty: Mobile was silky smooth, seeming to deliver on Nothing’s promise of 90Hz refresh rates and making it easy to gun down my bewildered opponents while they were still desperately swiping their screens trying to train me in their sights.

But this kind of performance is no good if your phone can’t sustain it. Fortunately, I found that, thanks to its 5,300mm2 VC cooling system, the (4a) Pro was able to keep its cooling under this kind of strain. Despite the fact that I spent a couple of hours gaming on the (4a) Pro, there was only very mild warming on the back – and I think that was much more likely from my sweaty mitts than its CPU overheating. Given that quite a few phones still get blisteringly hot from demanding games, I was really glad to see how chill the Nothing Phone was.

• Performance score: 4 / 5

(Image credit: Future)Nothing Phone (4a) Pro review: battery life

• Large 5,080mAh capacity
• Fell a little short of Nothing’s usage estimates
• 50W charging juices it up fast

With a capacity of 5,080mAh, the Nothing Phone (4a) Pro is able to keep pace with huge flagships like the Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra, which has a typical capacity of 5,000mAh – although it can’t quite beat the OnePlus 15 with its voluminous 7,300mAh battery.

What does this mean in practical terms? Well, despite using it pretty intensively during my testing, I found that the (4a) Pro would often last well into a second day’s usage, meaning you’re unlikely to need to worry about it lasting your whole day.

In terms of hard numbers, Nothing estimates it should give you 17 hours of combined usage or 21 hours of YouTube viewing. Putting this claim to the test, I set the (4a) Pro streaming 2K video for hours on end to see how it held up. After six hours, its battery had dropped to 56% – that means I’d expect it to last around 13 hours 40 minutes in total. That’s quite a way short of what was estimated, but this was at max brightness, which likely brought its life down somewhat.

Fortunately, even when the phone does run out, juicing it up again is lightning fast, thanks to its 50W wired charging. Nothing’s estimates weren’t quite borne out by my testing here either: rather than the 0% to 60% they suggested I’d see in just 30 minutes, I got to 47%. Still, that’s seriously fast, meaning you’ll likely be full after just an hour’s charging – that's still speedier than many mainstream handsets, even if the phone can’t quite hit the absurd pace of something like the 100W charging of the OnePlus 15.

• Battery score: 4 / 5

(Image credit: Future)Should I buy the Nothing Phone (4a) Pro?

Attributes

Notes

Rating

Design

Both stylishly understated and utterly singular, huge yet perfectly ergonomic, slim yet robustly built.

5/5

Display

Absolutely enormous and wonderfully bright, crisp even if it’s not quite as high resolution as some flagships. Colors less vibrant than the best phones though.

4/5

Software

OS is simple to use, feeling slick and streamlined. Can engage with AI tools as much or as little as you like. Glyph Matrix tools both fun and surprisingly useful.

4.5/5

Cameras

Crisp detail, decent black levels and impressive night photography. But inconsistent exposure levels and muted hues hold it back from greatness.

3.5/5

Performance

Strong chipset and RAM options for a mid-range phone, handles multi-tasking and gaming without noticeable issues, and stays impressively chill under heavy workloads.

4/5

Battery life

With its 5,080mAh capacity, the battery lasts a good long while, although it fell a little short of Nothing’s estimates. 50W fast-charging topped it up super fast though.

4/5

Buy it if…

You want fab design and performance for your buck
Not only does the Nothing Phone look and feel great in your hand, but it’s capable of surprisingly potent performance. Neither demanding mobile games nor multitasking seems able to knock it off its stride.

You just want to have fun
Fundamentally, the Nothing Phone (4a) Pro is just a joy to use. It doesn’t take itself too seriously, it stays out of your way for the most part and, if you don’t enjoy playing with the Glyph Matrix, you’ve got a heart of stone.

Don’t buy it if…

You want more camera than phone
The (4a) Pro’s camera system is not bad by any means. But given its slightly washed out colors and occasionally wobbly exposure, it can’t compete with more camera-first phones.

You prefer Nothing’s more brutalist designs
This is the most restrained a Nothing handset has looked to date. So, if you want more of that bold, industrial design on show, go for the transparent-backed (4a) instead.

Nothing Phone (4a) Pro review: also consider

Nothing Phone (4a) Pro

Samsung Galaxy A56

Nothing Phone (4a)

Dimensions

6.44 x 3.02 x 0.31 inches / 163.66 x 76.62 x 7.95mm

6.39 x 3.05 x 0.29 inches / 162.2 x 77.5 x 7.4mm

6.46 x 3.06 x 0.34 inches / 164 x 77.6 x 8.6mm

Weight

7.41 oz / 210g

6.98 oz / 198g

7.21 oz / 204.5g

Screen

6.83-inch LTPS flexible AMOLED

6.7-inch FHD+ Super AMOLED

6.78-inch LTPS flexible AMOLED

Resolution

2,800 x 1,260

2340 x 1080

2720 x 1224

Refresh rate

144Hz

120Hz

120Hz

Chipset

Qualcomm Snapdragon 7 Gen 4

Exynos 1580

Qualcomm Snapdragon 7s Gen 4

RAM

8GB / 12GB

8GB (12GB in limited locations)

8GB / 12GB

Storage

128GB / 256GB

128GB / 256GB

128GB / 256GB

OS

Android 16, Nothing OS 4.1

Android 15 with Samsung's One UI 7

Android 16, Nothing OS 4.1

Rear cameras

50MP f/1.88 main, 8MP f/2.2 ultra-wide, 50MP f/2.88 periscope

50 MP main; 12MP ultra-wide; 5MP Macro

50MP f/1.88 main, 8MP f/2.2 ultra-wide, 50MP f/2.88 periscope

Front camera

32MP f/2.2

12MP

32MP f/2.2

Battery

5,080mAh

5,000mAh

5,080mAh

Charging

50W wired fast charging, no wireless charging

45W wired

50W wired fast charging, no wireless charging

Samsung Galaxy A56
I’ll level with you. The Samsung Galaxy A56 can’t compete with the Nothing Phone (4a) Pro when it comes to performance, as it’s not as dab a hand for gaming. Neither does it have as innovative features as the Glyph Matrix. So why am I recommending it? Because you can already get it for as little as $319.99 from Walmart, £247 from Amazon UK or AU$559 from Amazon AU – that’s a substantial reduction from its $499 / £499 / AU$699 list price, making it a great value alternative.

Read our full Samsung Galaxy A56 review

Nothing Phone (4a)
For some die-hard Nothing fans, I appreciate that the (4a) Pro might be a little too conservative in design. Where’s the unabashedly techy transparent backplate? On the more affordable (4a), that’s where. On top of this, the (4a) offers still impressive performance, similarly streamlined software, and the same epic 5,080mAh battery capacity. Not bad, given it starts from as little as £349 / AU$649 – although US users can’t get their hands on it currently.

Read our full Nothing Phone (4a) review

(Image credit: Future)How I tested the Nothing Phone (4a) Pro

• Used it consistently over a week and a half
• Tested every core function in real-world scenarios
• Utilized years of gadget testing experience

I tested the Nothing Phone (4a) Pro over the course of a week and a half. To test out its display, I engaged in plenty of browsing and watched multiple 2K HDR videos to compare it to flagship devices. When assessing performance, I tested it out both in a variety of productivity contexts and by playing demanding games like Genshin Impact and Call of Duty: Mobile on max settings.

When putting its camera through its paces, I took a variety of photographs in different contexts, from floral shots during bright sunlight to nighttime shots in a city, comparing them to my iPhone 16 Pro for context. And to try out its battery life, I looped 2K YouTube videos for six hours to see how much the battery drained, before juicing it up with a 50W charger to see how quickly it would refill.

In terms of my experience, I’ve been reviewing a wide variety of gadgets for many years, as well as editing plenty of phone and tablet reviews written by the reviews team. I’m also a regular mobile gamer and have shot some 46,000 photos on my iPhone over the years, meaning I have a lot of experience shooting on mobile.

• First reviewed: March 2026
• Read more about how we test

Crimson Desert is easily one of the best action-adventure games of this generation. Developer Pearl Abyss provides stylish, remarkable combat in an exceptional open-world experience with spectacular visuals that make it a must-play.

It provides little to no guidance, giving players total freedom to think outside the box in both exploration and combat encounters, utilizing unique mechanics to overcome puzzles, enemy ambushes, and the other obstacles that await you.

Review info

Platform reviewed: PC
Available on: PS5, Xbox Series X|S, PC
Release date: March 19, 2026

Despite initial fears of a 'catch', Crimson Desert ticks all the important boxes for a game that will keep you coming back for more, with moments of distraction during discovery, large-scale battles, fantastic voice acting, and a strong original soundtrack to accompany players throughout their journey.

After 80 hours of playing, I still have the same smile from my first hour of diving in, as there's still so much more that awaits me in the continent of Pywel.

Getting lost in Pywel

(Image credit: Future / Isaiah Williams)

Crimson Desert's map is absolutely massive, so much so that I had only seen eight per cent of it by the 60-hour mark. The continent of Pywel is filled with so much to discover, and I often found myself getting sidetracked and distracted on the path to main story quests in this well-crafted open world.

Whether it's a cave you've stumbled upon, full of traps to complete a puzzle, or an ambush led by a non-playable character (NPC) who fools you into believing they need your help, Crimson Desert is constantly keeping you engrossed and curious to uncover what lies beyond its main path.

As Kliff Macduff, you lead the Greymanes after a sudden ambush by fierce rivals, the Black Bears, leaving Kliff and his comrades left for dead. Your job is to find and reunite the surviving Greymanes and avenge all that was lost, but there's more than what meets the eye here.

It's important to note that Crimson Desert is not a narrative-driven game, and there's a heavier focus on the open-world sandbox and its immersive nature. Having said that, I was quite surprised to see that Pearl Abyss constructed an interesting story that not only helps you grow attached to characters among the Greymanes but also leaves you constantly wondering what lies ahead on your journey.

Following the game's grand opening, Crimson Desert gives you important starter tools and essentially allows you to freely explore any region you choose. You effectively pick your own difficulty by either seeking out gear via boss battles or finding Abyss Artifacts to unlock new skills, all early on, or head into quests or large-scale battles without them for a challenge.

Finding those Abyss Artifacts is no easy feat, as many require solving puzzles across the map. Remember when I said there was no hand-holding? You're not getting anything but a few hints with Crimson Desert's puzzles, and it felt so rewarding to complete them, as I was consistently excited to see how each new skill I unlocked would change my playstyle.

(Image credit: Future / Isaiah Williams)

For example, you might find a puzzle with stone slabs and symbols that must follow a particular pattern for each phase. While there are potentially clues for what that pattern is in another hidden location on the map, chances are you haven't found it. Once you finally succeed through trial and error, the sense of relief is profoundly cathartic.

That applies to both puzzles in casual exploration, side quests, and main quests, so it's best to be patient with each of them. The scale of Crimson Desert's open world is something I've not seen in any game until now, and that means most players will easily pass the 50-hour mark, and still be in the game's starting region, Hernand.

Now, that doesn't mean you can't travel to any region you want; you can. However, I offer you the best of luck in doing so without finding the right gear, and levelling up accordingly, as the enemies and bosses in Crimson Desert are very unforgiving - sometimes to the game's detriment.

Suplex cityFuture / Isaiah WilliamsFuture / Isaiah WilliamsFuture / Isaiah WilliamsFuture / Isaiah WilliamsFuture / Isaiah Williams

Combat in Crimson Desert is a wrestling fan's dream and more, easily standing out as the strongest aspect of the game. While there's plenty to enjoy in terms of spectacle, especially when mounting dragons, using jetpacks, or simply deploying tools like Axiom Force to traverse the map, Pearl Abyss has done a phenomenal job at making the battlefield your playground.

Once you've equipped enough Abyss Artifacts, you can either choose a build dedicated to unarmed combat, with stylish combos that reminded me of Devil May Cry 5, or one that focuses on special attacks like Force Palm.

The great thing is you can dip into both, and blend multiple styles, but you'll need to master combat and the game's controls to do so. You'll know you're beginning to grip combat when you run into formidable base enemies who can pull off some of the same moves you can, and you're able to time your dodges and parries and execute your counters before shifting back into defence, as they're quite hard to pull off consistently.

It also has you stringing particular combos together promptly, especially since certain special attacks and combos can only be executed on stunned enemies and bosses. For example, Kliff can clothesline enemies, pull off a Randy Keith Orton (RKO) — yes, I'm not kidding — a suplex, and an elbow drop all in one string if timed well, and may even save you from an ambush as their impact can push other enemies back away from you.

Fortunately, it didn't take me long to become well accustomed to the controls, which can be slightly confusing at first, especially if you're not used to intense action games. Once you can grab enemies using Axiom Force, and use the game's fundamental mechanics (which are usually ideal for puzzles) in combat, the experience excels, particularly when coming across aggressive foes.

All three playable characters in Kliff, Damiane, and Oongka have their own skill trees and weapons, and most importantly, diverse fighting styles. Using Damiane, I could grab an enemy for a ground-slamming attack, but then hit the same combination again, only for her to inflict multiple knee attacks mid-air on an enemy's face, or send them crashing into the ground again.

(Image credit: Future / Isaiah Williams)

Enemies won't give you any waiting time either, often working by ambushing you and attacking all at once, making you stay on your toes to come out of encounters alive. It flows incredibly well, and the difficulty within normal enemy and faction encounters feels very well-balanced.

Unfortunately, that isn't the same case with some of Crimson Desert's boss battles. Two of the worst offenders have already been showcased in marketing: Kearush the Slayer and the Reed Devil.

Bosses in the game often trigger special and large-scale attacks that are capable of killing you in one hit, and there should be a fair chance to evade these attacks.

However, Kearush the Slayer has a special attack that is almost impossible to dodge, parry, or even run away from — and the only solution for me was to desperately Force Palm myself into the ceiling of the hall the fight takes place in. Kearush is also incredibly aggressive, to an unfair degree, leaving little time for you to react.

It's much worse in the Reed Devil encounter, specifically a second phase that has you destroying certain objects to continue, but you can hardly move due to the ferocious attacks that easily break through your defence.

You'll find yourself hard-pressed to defeat bosses without entering each encounter with tons of food or other healing items, because each boss gets far more aggressive through each phase, and there's no checkpoint in between each of them.

(Image credit: Future / Isaiah Williams)

Going from challenging but fair enemy ambushes, casual open-world exploration, and fun mini-game activities, to overly aggressive boss battles in the main story made it feel like I was playing two different games at times.

I'm sure there'll be players who have a better time during these encounters, especially if care is taken to use most Abyss Artifacts on stamina and health upgrades (and perhaps if Pearl Abyss does tweak some of these encounters post-launch), but they were frustrating for me.

It's not all doom and gloom, though, as I ran into a few epic and engaging boss battles that gave me a fair opportunity to come out victorious without feeling hard done by. I just hope that, at the very least, Pearl Abyss can include checkpoints for those that feature multiple phases.

Let's get technicalFuture / Isaiah WilliamsFuture / Isaiah Williams

I'll admit, I was worried about Crimson Desert's performance before getting my hands on it, but fortunately, those fears were quelled instantly. PC players will be glad to know that Crimson Desert runs like an absolute charm, and the BlackSpace Engine from Pearl Abyss is exceptional.

I ran Crimson Desert on an RTX 4080 Super, with 32GB of DDR4 RAM, and an AMD Ryzen 5700X3D processor. At a native 3440x1440 resolution, on the maximum 'Cinematic' graphics preset without any upscaling, I was able to hit around 70 frames per second (fps) and more in multiple graphically intense scenarios.

The optimization from Pearl Abyss here is exceptional, and as I speculated previously, it's the first title on PC I've seen in years that doesn't need to use any form of upscaling for good performance. Bear in mind, on the Cinematic preset, only 6GB of VRAM was being utilized.

It's also easily one of the best-looking games of this generation, with amazing vistas alongside cloth physics and water simulation that leave me stunned each time I take a breather while exploring.

The only issues I ran into were quality-of-life annoyances and game-breaking bugs. Reading the latter might make you panic, but don't. These were softlocks that occurred when resetting skills, which removed ones that were fundamental to game progression, and another that locked the game's camera in place after a boss battle, without any way of progressing.

(Image credit: Future / Isaiah Williams)

I've never been a fan of constant inventory management, and unfortunately, it's at its worst here in Crimson Desert. You find yourself discarding items to free up space, and since there is no storage at the Greymane camp, it was a constant interruption to the flow of gameplay for me.

Pearl Abyss has already made improvements by fixing those softlock issues, and were very quick to respond to feedback regarding quality-of-life. The day one patch should fix many of the issues I came across in my review period, and the developers have promised a housing update for additional storage at a later date after launch.

Overall, I had an absolute blast playing Crimson Desert, and while it's not a perfect game, it's a few tweaks and updates away from being a mastercraft, and is already a strong game of the year contender.

Should you play Crimson Desert?Play it if...

You're seeking an impressive open-world sandbox
Crimson Desert is an incredibly massive game, with a map that will leave most players easily surpassing the 50-hour mark with plenty of playtime left to go. It thrives in moments of open-world exploration, and does enough to keep you distracted from the main path in the best ways possible.

You're a stylish combat fanatic
With three playable characters, there's so much fun to be had in combat, and it's easily the best aspect of Crimson Desert. Combat here may remind you of games like Dragon's Dogma 2 and Devil May Cry 5, but Pearl Abyss has made this a unique experience, with combinations and controls that are different from anything you've experienced before.

Don't play if...

You like having video game 'yellow paint' for guidance
Crimson Desert is a game that does not hold your hand whatsoever in its puzzles, including when and where to apply certain mechanics. Players will be required to think outside of the box for both main and side progression.

You have open-world fatigue
While the map is full of puzzles, surprises, and more to keep you engrossed, it's easily one of the biggest maps in gaming, and it will require plenty of hours to complete and see everything.

Accessibility features

Crimson Desert doesn't feature any difficulty options, unlike other action-adventure games, but rather relies on player exploration and finding the right gear, effectively leaving them to form their own difficulty.

There isn't a wide range of settings available in terms of accessibility, with no colorblind options, no controller or key binding configuration options, and the inability to completely remove the game's HUD.

Fortunately, the game includes particle effects, blur intensity, and camera shake sliders, suitable for those sensitive to flashing lights during combat, and who prefer a less intense visual experience, including the choice to reduce HUD and cutscene subtitle size.

There are options to not display all three characters' accessories, but this option doesn't seem to apply to headgear, and there isn't a transmog system in Crimson Desert.

Blood can be disabled entirely, but there isn't too much on display when the setting is enabled.

Pearl Abyss has also included an option that allows you to preview the game while changing graphics settings, which is ideal for quick adjustments. DLSS and FSR Frame Generation can also be enabled or disabled without the game requiring a restart.

(Image credit: Future / Isaiah Williams)How I reviewed Crimson Desert

I tested both 3440x1440 (ultrawide) and 3840x2160 (4K) display resolutions, using an RTX 4080 Super, Corsair Vengeance 32GB DDR4 RAM, and an AMD Ryzen 7 5700X3D, and had no performance issues throughout my time playing.

The monitor I used was the LG UltraGear 45GS95QE OLED ultrawide, similar to the LG UltraGear GX9 45GX950A we've reviewed, thanks to its immersive 800R curvature, but it doesn't feature the 45GX950A's 5K display resolution. As for the 4K TV, it was the TCL QM8 55-inch mini-LED, taking advantage of the game's incredible lighting with high brightness.

I also tested Crimson Desert on my Lenovo Legion Go S Z1 Extreme handheld using SteamOS, and managed to achieve around 30 to 40 frames per second on the medium graphics preset with AMD FSR 3.1 balanced enabled.

My handheld testing was done early into receiving my review copy, and would barely run without using 'Proton Experimental' — without it, an error message would state that the graphics device isn't supported. I suspect performance and visuals will be much sharper after launch, and drivers are updated and suitable for the game on SteamOS.

First reviewed March 2026

MSI Prestige 14 AI+: Two-minute review

The MSI Prestige 14 AI+ is a sleek business-focused laptop with a premium design that manages an interesting and useful mix of the features and performance you need, but skips a lot of the bloat.

As the name suggests, it’s a 14-inch laptop, and it’s aimed at users on the go who need a thin and light machine that still offers decent performance and battery life. The Prestige 14 measures in at 31.6 x 22.2 x 1.2 - 1.4cm (12.4 x 8.7 x 0.47 - 0.55 inches) and weighs 1.32kg (2.91 lbs) — an excellent size for portability without being too small. Compared to the non-Windows competition, it’s chunkier than a MacBook Air, but is slimmer and lighter than a MacBook Pro.

The Prestige 14 AI+ D3M configuration I tested uses the Intel Core Ultra 7 355 CPU with 32GB of onboard LPDDR5x memory and a 1TB NVMe PCIe 4.0 SSD — a popular spec in laptops launched in 2026. You can also get the Prestige 14 AI+ in the same spec but with a 512GB SSD, or with a more powerful Intel Core Ultra X7 358H CPU.

While the Prestige 14 AI+ is a classic clamshell laptop, there’s also a similar 2-in-1 model. If that’s more your style, check out our MSI Prestige 14 Flip AI+ review.

On the left side, the Prestige 14 AI+ has two USB-C / Thunderbolt 4 ports (both supporting DisplayPort and 100W charging), plus an HDMI 2.1 output. The right side features dual USB-A ports and a 3.5mm headset jack.

The pair of Thunderbolt 4 ports makes it easy to connect the laptop up to a dock or monitor, and if also using HDMI, you can drive 3 external displays. I generally like having one USB-C port on each side, but the dual left ports plus HDMI setup does make it neat on a desk.

The 14-inch OLED display has a resolution of 1920 x 1200 (a pleasing 16:10 aspect ratio) with excellent 100% DCI-P3 color. MSI doesn't quote a specific NIT figure on the local spec sheet, but in use the glossy OLED panel is bright enough to overcome reflections in slightly glary office environments but struggles a little outdoors.

The Prestige 14 AI+ screen can fold back through 180 degrees (Image credit: Future)

Handily, the screen folds back through a full 180 degrees, which is great for sharing content across a table or using the laptop in a vertical stand. The 1920 x 1200 resolution is perfectly fine at this size but not quite as sharp as I prefer and you will need to look at the larger 16-inch Prestige 16 AI+ if you want a higher res screen, like 2880x1800.

The IR FHD webcam gives decent quality video when well-lit and is still acceptable in tougher lower-light conditions. It supports facial recognition unlocks, plus has a physical shutter for privacy. Speaker quality is better than expected, though as is normal in a thin laptop, the sound gets a little muddy at higher volumes.

The backlit keyboard has deep key travel, very little bounce and no distracting light bleed from under the keys. The large touchpad is nice and accurate and supports gestures, though its non-haptic click mechanism has unusually deep travel, especially on right click, and can feel a little awkward at times.

The new Intel Series 3 Core Ultra 7 355 CPU is a good fit for this kind of thin-and-light machine. In daily use the Prestige 14 AI+ feels very responsive for typical office work, photo editing and even heavier multitasking. This is thanks in part to the snappy CPU, but also due to the 32GB of RAM and fast SSD. The integrated graphics are a step down from Intel Arc iGPUs but performance is plenty for accelerating lighter creative work and even some casual gaming.

The battery has an 81Wh capacity — decently large for this class of machine — and the laptop lasted an excellent 14 hours and 42 minutes unplugged when doing office tasks. Video playback is even better at 16 hours and 21 minutes in testing, meaning the Prestige will happily make it through a day unplugged.

All in all, the combination of snappy everyday performance and excellent battery life in a stylish portable laptop makes the MSI Prestige 14 AI+ easy to recommend.

(Image credit: Future)MSI Prestige 14 AI+: Price & availability

• How much does it cost? $1,699 / £1,449 / AU$2,599
• When is it available? Available now
• Where is it available? Available in the US, UK and Australia

The MSI Prestige 14 AI+ is very new, so at the time of writing availability is not yet widespread and in the US, only the Ultra X7 385H variant is for sale.

The Intel Core Ultra 7 355 variant tested costs around £1,449 in the UK and AU$2,599 in Australia, though some retailers already have it a little cheaper. You can also save a little by opting for the 512GB SSD spec.

The pricing places the MSI Prestige 14 AI+ firmly in premium ultrabook territory rather than the more budget-friendly business-laptop space, but the spec and features do help justify the higher asking price — especially as the latest generation of laptops has experienced noticeable price rises compared to 2025 models. Still, I hope to see the price come down over time to help keep it competitive.

The Intel Ultra X7 358H variant is also sold in Australia and the UK with up to a 2TB SSD and is only slightly more expensive — so it’s well worth checking out if you need more storage or higher performance.

• Value score: 4 / 5

The Prestige 14 AI+ has a sleek and premium design (Image credit: Future)MSI Prestige 14 AI+: Specs

The Prestige 14 AI+ family includes several variants, but the configuration tested here is straightforward: an Intel Core Ultra 7 355, 32GB of onboard LPDDR5x memory, a 1TB SSD and a 14-inch 1920 x 1200 OLED display.

The other common option is a model with a more powerful Intel Core Ultra X7 358H CPU and up to a 2TB SSD.

MSI Prestige 14 AI+ (as tested)

MSI Prestige 14 AI+ (top spec)

Price

£1,449 / AU$2,599

£1,549 / AU$2,799

CPU

Intel Core Ultra 7 355, 8 cores (4 P-cores + 4 Low Power E-cores), 8 threads, up to 4.7GHz, 12MB cache, up to 49 NPU TOPS

Intel Core Ultra X7 358H, 16 cores (4 P-cores + 8 E-cores + 4 Low Power E-cores), 16 threads, up to 4.8GHz, 18MB cache, up to 50 NPU TOPS

GPU

Intel Graphics

Intel Arc B390 GPU

Screen

14-inch, 16:10, 1920 x 1200, OLED, glossy, non-touch

14-inch, 16:10, 1920 x 1200, OLED, glossy, non-touch

RAM

32GB / 64GB LPDDR5x

32GB / 64GB LPDDR5x

Storage

512GB - 2TB NVMe SSD

Up to 2TB NVMe SSD

Ports

Left side: 2x Thunderbolt 4 USB-C with DisplayPort and 100W charging, HDMI 2.1
Right side: 2x USB-A 3.2 Gen2, 3.5mm headset jack

Left side: 2x Thunderbolt 4 USB-C with DisplayPort and 100W charging, HDMI 2.1
Right side: 2x USB-A 3.2 Gen2, 3.5mm headset jack

Wireless

Intel Killer Wi-Fi 7 BE1775, Bluetooth 6

Intel Killer Wi-Fi 7 BE1775, Bluetooth 6

Camera

IR FHD (1080p) webcam with HDR, 3DNR+, 3-mic array

IR FHD (1080p) webcam with HDR, 3DNR+, 3-mic array

Weight

1.32 kg (2.91 lbs)

1.32 kg (2.91 lbs)

Dimensions

31.6 x 22.2 x 1.2–1.4cm (12.4 x 8.7 x 0.47–0.55 inches)

31.6 x 22.2 x 1.2–1.4cm (12.4 x 8.7 x 0.47–0.55 inches)

• Specs score: 4 / 5

On the left — dual USB-C Thunderbolt 4 and HDMI 2.1FutureOn the right — dual USB-A and a 3.5mm headset jackFutureMSI Prestige 14 AI+: Design

• 180-degree fold-flat screen
• Dual Thunderbolt 4
• 16:10 OLED display

The Prestige 14 AI+ looks and feels like a proper premium laptop compared to MSI's more budget-friendly office machines, and it has a sleek, understated design that easily rivals the best from other brands.

The Prestige 14 measures in at 31.6 x 22.2 x 1.2–1.4cm (12.4 x 8.7 x 0.47–0.55 inches), and its 1.32kg (2.91 lbs) weight makes it a very manageable laptop to carry around every day. The curved edges of the aluminum alloy design make it feel pleasantly slim in hand (or when slipping it into a bag) but it’s strong enough to use without any undue flexing.

The port fitout and left/right split is pretty standard on laptops these days and has everything needed for most users. It would be nice to see little extras like an SD card reader, or another USB-C port on the right, but that’s increasingly rare.

MSI says the laptop can be equipped with 64GB of RAM, but for now I have only seen 32GB variants for sale. The RAM is soldered so can’t be upgraded, but the SSD uses a M.2 slot so can be swapped out in the future if you need more space.

FutureFutureFutureFutureFutureFutureFuture

The keyboard is above average, with comfortable sizing (even for my large hands), deep travel and very little bounce during a vigorous deadline-induced writing session.

The trackpad is large and accurate to use and supports gestures like adjusting volume or brightness, and has a handy shortcut to the calculator and the MSI Center S management software. You do need to turn the gestures on manually and once you get used to them they work pretty well, and they aren't easy to accidentally trigger. You can also set up your own custom actions for gestures, like activating specific hotkeys or launching apps.

Overall I found the trackpad to be above average and my only complaint during my use was that right-clicking in the lower corner felt oddly deep, despite it working just fine.

The right click on the touchpad works fine but has very deep travelFutureThe backlit keys have good travel and typing feelFutureFuture

The 16:10 display gives that little bit of extra screen real estate that you only realize is so helpful if ever going back to a 16:9 laptop. The 1920 x 1200 resolution is lower than I usually like, but considering the 14-inch footprint, it's quite sharp and usable day to day. That’s helped by the OLED panel with an excellent 100% DCI-P3 color rating, and while there’s no listed brightness, it’s good enough even in bright office environments, but the glossy surface shows a lot of reflections if outdoors at a cafe.

If you want a higher resolution display, then look at the larger Prestige 16 AI+ C3MG lineup. The spec is very similar overall, but you get a 16-inch 2880x1800 OLED display and the price is only slightly higher. Or for touchscreen support, the Prestige 14 Flip machines offer a comparable laptop but with a 2-in-1 design.

The fold back screen means the Prestige 14 works well in a vertical standFutureThe fold flat screen makes it easy to share content across a tableFutureFutureFuture

My favorite feature though is that the screen uses a hinge that allows it to fold back through 180 degrees. That is very useful for using the laptop in a vertical stand next to external monitors — in my testing I had it upright and flat next to dual vertically mounted 4K 27” panels, letting me use the laptop screen as an extra workspace for things like a Slack chat. The fold-back screen also makes it easy to share content across a table, and works well in one-on-one meetings.

The Prestige 14 AI+ includes an IR webcam and fingerprint reader, so secure logins are fast and easy. Many laptops only have one or the other, but having both means you can use whatever method you prefer, or turn off facial logins if needed without resorting to using a pin or password.

• Design score: 4 / 5

(Image credit: Future)MSI Prestige 14 AI+: Performance

• Great everyday performance
• Very quiet in normal use
• Fast 1TB SSD

MSI Prestige 14 AI+: Benchmarks

Here's how the MSI Prestige 14 AI+ performed in the TechRadar suite of benchmark tests:

PCMark 10: 7,827

CrossMark: Overall 1,873

Geekbench 6 CPU: Single-core 2,745; Multi-core 11,494

Geekbench AI: Single precision 2,140; Half precision 1,083; Quantized 4,449

Cinebench 2024: CPU multi: 497 pts; CPU single: 109 pts

CrystalDiskMark: Read: 6,960.75 MB/s; Write: 6,334.84 MB/s

Blender Benchmark: Monster 63.35; Junkshop 39.15; Classroom 26.94

3DMark suite: Time Spy 3,296; Time Spy Extreme 1,511; Steel Nomad 616; Steel Nomad Light 2,496; Night Raid 28,914; Fire Strike 6,502; Fire Strike Ultra 1,597, Solar Bay 12,295; Solar Bay Extreme 1,792; Wild Life 21,587; Wild Life Extreme 5,729

Battery: Work battery 14 hours 42 minutes; Video battery 16 hours 21 minutes

The MSI Prestige 14 AI+ feels snappy in typical use, with top-notch single-core performance plus fast RAM and storage. The Intel Core Ultra 7 355 is aimed at being an efficient chip for thin and light laptops, so multicore performance is lower than you get with more powerful CPUs.

It’s still plenty for most tasks, but for anyone who runs more demanding apps, the Prestige 14 with the more powerful Intel Core Ultra X7 358H is well worth the slightly higher price. For most users though, the Ultra 7 355 is a good mix of performance and efficiency.

MSI has equipped the Prestige 14 with a very fast SSD that can approach the limits of the PCIe 4.0 interface. In my tests the drive managed 6,961 MB/s read and 6,335 MB/s writes in CrystalDiskMark, which helps ensure the laptop feels fast when launching apps and multitasking.

Of course, decent performance in a thin form factor means some fan noise is expected under heavy load. Like most laptops these days, MSI uses vapor chamber cooling and during normal office work the Prestige 14 AI+ is mostly inaudible, or very quiet when the fans do spool up a little.

It gets that characteristic laptop fan whine under heavy loads, but does ramp down quickly once the CPU isn’t working as hard. The chassis does get noticeably warm if you push the laptop for an extended period, but the keyboard, touchpad and underside never became uncomfortably hot in my testing.

Graphics performance is naturally limited by the integrated GPU, but it is still respectable for a thin business laptop. The Prestige 14 AI+ scored 3,296 in 3DMark Time Spy and 6,502 in Fire Strike, which is a bit less than last gen CPUs like the Intel Ultra 7 258V, but enough for lighter GPU work and some casual play with older or less demanding games.

If you need a laptop that can compete with low-end discrete graphics, then opting for the Prestige 14 with the Intel Core Ultra X7 358H CPU is a good call, as it has a much more powerful Intel Arc B390 iGPU, which offers over 50% higher performance.

The Intel Core Ultra 7 355 includes an NPU with up to 49 TOPs performance, but we are still in that awkward phase where it’s underutilized most of the time. Still, it’s only going to get more useful, and already offers advantages such as efficiently handling webcam backgrounds and video effects in otherwise notorious resource-hogging apps like Teams.

If your workload consists of typical office tasks — writing, handling spreadsheets, multitasking across apps, image editing and other general productivity, the Prestige 14 AI+ has more than enough performance.

If you need to handle more creator-style workloads, then it’s definitely worth looking at other models, such as the MSI Prestige 16 AI+ C3M.

• Performance score: 4 / 5

The included 65W charger is fairly compact (Image credit: Future)MSI Prestige 14 AI+: Battery life

• 14 hours and 42 minutes work when unplugged
• 16 hours and 21 minutes of video playback

The Prestige 14 AI+ has an 81Wh battery — decently large considering the light weight and thin design meaning battery life is one of its key strengths. Connected to Wi-Fi, I managed 14 hours and 42 minutes of lighter office-style work (like writing reviews) on battery, which is more than enough to get through a long day.

If you add in some more demanding tasks like a lot of image editing, then battery life slips. But even then the CPU is efficient enough that you need to be working it pretty hard before you can’t make it through a day unplugged.

The Prestige 14 AI+ charges over USB-C using its included 65W adapter (though it supports 100W), and you can quickly add back 50% of charge in about 30 minutes, or be fully topped off in about 1.5 hours. The charger is not too bulky and you can change the AC end of the cable if going overseas.

For less demanding tasks such as video playback, the laptop lasts even longer. With Wi-Fi on and the screen at 50% brightness, it lasted 16 hours and 21 minutes.

Overall the Prestige 14 combines the large battery and efficient CPU well and is a solid choice if you need to get work done when on the go.

• Battery life score: 4 / 5

Should you buy the MSI Prestige 14 AI+?

Attributes

Notes

Rating

Value

Higher end pricing, but still competitive against alternative options.

4 / 5

Specs

Well-rounded for productivity, plugged in or on the go.

4 / 5

Design

Sleek and lightweight, but without any problematic compromises.

4 / 5

Performance

Quite good for a slim laptop, and it has a more powerful CPU option available

4 / 5

Battery

Excellent endurance overall and happily lasts a day unplugged

4.5 / 5

Overall

A polished productivity focused laptop with the features you need but no extra bloat

4 / 5

Buy it if...

You want long battery life
With 14 hours and 42 minutes of office productivity runtime, the Prestige 14 AI+ can comfortably get through a full workday when on the go.

You need a capable yet efficient travel workhorse
The Core Ultra 7 355, 32GB of RAM and fast SSD make it a good fit for multitasking, office work and lighter creative tasks.

You connect to external displays
Dual Thunderbolt 4 ports with DisplayPort, plus HDMI 2.1, make the Prestige 14 AI+ easy to slot into a multi-monitor setup

Don't buy it if...

You love a high resolution display
The 1920 x 1200 OLED panel looks pretty good in the 14-inch frame, but if you want 2880 x 1800 or better you need to look at other models.

You are fussy about touchpads
The touchpad is large and is accurate, but its deep physical click feels a touch awkward at times.

You want 64GB of RAM
At the time of writing the variants with more RAM are not yet available.

MSI Prestige 14 AI+: Also consider

If my MSI Prestige 14 AI+ review has you considering other options, here are three alternatives to consider...

MSI Prestige 14 Flip AI+
Want a more flexible take on the Prestige formula? The Prestige 14 Flip AI+ is a very similar laptop but uses a convertible 2-in-1 design and has a touchscreen and pen.

Check out our full MSI Prestige 14 Flip AI+ review

HP OmniBook 7 Aero
The OmniBook 7 Aero is a great option if you are after a low weight laptop, and it offers a good balance of performance and portability.

Check out our full HP OmniBook 7 Aero review

Acer TravelMate P6 14 AI
Another business laptop with portability in mind, the TravelMate P6 14 AI is worth a look for anyone on the go a lot.

Check out our full Acer TravelMate P6 14 AI laptop review

How I tested the MSI Prestige 14 AI+

• I tested the MSI Prestige 14 AI+ for two weeks
• I used it both at a desk and when working on the go
• I tested it with benchmarking tools, battery testing and everyday workloads

I ran the MSI Prestige 14 AI+ through the usual comprehensive array of TechRadar benchmarks, as well as using it for actual day-to-day work.

I used it for office tasks, media playback, multitasking and general productivity work, while also checking battery life, thermals, noise and charging times.

Read more about how we test

First reviewed March 2026

Zygo Z2: One minute review

The Zygo Z2 are part of a very small world of headphones, namely bone conduction models made for being used in the water. Yet even in this small space, they are unique. They’re not the only swimming headphones that you should consider, but they are the only ones that use a radio transmitter for listening to music in the water. There's no onboard MP3 player, so they're the only pair that you don’t need to sit down with in front of your computer, to manually load the headphones with music before heading to the pool.

And while that’s the big selling point you’ll see when you come across them on their website or on Amazon, the Z2s also offer a deep ecosystem within the downloadable app including a whole assortment of classes, along with features like a walkie talkie and lap counting, hidden behind an additional but low subscription fee. This makes the Zygo Z2 function like a Peloton for the pool. I’m not sure I’ve seen anything like that before.

Of course, they do come at a hefty price (and that’s before the aforementioned subscription fee), and the sound quality is not going to compete with the best wireless earbuds. But that’s to be expected with headphones that first, use bone conduction, and second, use radio transmission.

If you have a smartphone (and I’m going to assume you do), you might be aware that phones connect to devices via WiFi, data, and Bluetooth, not radio waves (even if you’re streaming a radio station through your phone, it’s coming to you digitally). Because of that little omission, the Zygo Z2 needs more than just a pair of headphones to function.

Enter the biggest headphones charging case I’ve ever seen in my life. This big black square measures a little under seven inches across and under three inches deep. There’s a flip lid hiding the headphones and earplugs, as well as the USB-C charging port, LED indicator, and the power / connectivity button. Most unique here though is the shark fin on the back that needs to be flipped up during use, like an antenna. Without it, there are no radio waves.

The headphones inside have an IPX8 rating, use bone conduction for sound, and come in the same imposing matte black as the charging case. On the back of the headphones, the volume up (also power) and down sit on either side of the Zygo logo.

Be aware when ordering the Zygo Z2 that they come in two sizes: Standard and Large. If you go by the size guide and choose wisely, you’ll end up with a snug fit. They never fell off, adjusted, or really moved at all. And despite their tight fit, I found them comfortable to wear.

I can get up to three hours’ of battery life during use, which is a bit lower than the competition (but likely to be more than enough for a single session), though using a completely different technology (the radio transmission) might have something to do with that. The charging case does at least have seven charges in it, so its overall battery life (when including the charging case) is about the same as other bone conduction headphones that have a charging case, and far more than those that don’t. For reference, many of the better bone conduction headphones last around nine to ten hours.

I feel obligated to share our "how do bone conduction headphones work?" article as this type of sound reproduction is such a niche within headphones. They’re really only popular when searching specifically for the best waterproof headphones or best running headphones, with a possible exception for office work. In essence, they sit on the bones in front of your ear, circumventing the outer ear, which make them great for use in the water.

It’s also why the Zygo Z2 (and most other swim-focused headphones) come with a pair of earplugs. They, like the charging case and headphones, come in a fetching Darth Vader black. They’re necessary for hearing the headphones, allowing you to focus on the audio vibrating through your cheek bones (It’s less weird than it sounds).

If you’re wondering how “Eye of the Tiger” gets from your phone to your ears, it starts with a smartphone using the Zygo app, which is then paired to the charging case (a simple Bluetooth pairing process) in turn automatically connected to the headphones via radio waves. The Zygo app showcases the full breadth of the Z2’s features. I can use the app to communicate with someone else wearing the headphones. It is one-way though, so the wearer can’t talk back (only really useful if you have a swimming coach).

(Image credit: Future)

To use this feature, you need to get the five-dollar-a-month subscription, which also includes lap counting and a large assortment of on-demand classes consisting of audio workout guidance. Having listened to a few, I found them easy to follow and understand as well as well-paced. I think this ecosystem of classes are also what separates the Zygo Z2 from other swimming headphones.

Unfortunately, the audio quality leaves a bit to be desired. Now it’s not bad and having the audio coming through radio waves does provide a completely uninterrupted signal – something Bluetooth just can’t do in water.

When wearing the earplugs and submerged in water, the high end sounded clear with a good amount of detail and the mids were present, if a bit recessed. However, whether I’m listening to rock or hip hop (or anything really), the bass is just too quiet. It’s there, but quiet enough to really impact the listening experience. If you turn up the volume on a song with a lot of low end, the headphones also have a tendency to distort. However,the highs and mids sound pretty decent, especially underwater, so if you care less about the music and more about using it with a coach or with classes, then you’ll hear everything clearly.

Using the headphones to access the classes in the water is such a novel and helpful experience, even if it seems like someone would have done it by now, that the price and my issues with the audio quality feel unimportant, not to mention that the fact that you can stream whatever you want in real time (well, there’s a three second delay intentionally built in) instead of loading MP3’s in advance as needed with any other decent pair of swimming headphones.

Zygo Z2: Specifications

Drivers

Bone conduction

Active noise cancellation

No

Battery life

Up to 3 hours (21 with charging case)

Weight

57.7g (standard size)

Connectivity

Radio transmitter

Frequency range

150–20KHz

Waterproofing

IPX8

Other features

App (exercise programs, one-way walkie-talkie, lapt counting)

Zygo Z2: Price and availability

(Image credit: Future)

• How much does it cost? $329 (about £250 / AU$480)
• When is it available? Available now
• Where can you get it? Available in the US

While those abroad will have to find a way to smuggle the Zygo Z2 out of the US to get it, those in the US can get it directly from the company for $329 (about £250 / AU$480). If you’re in Alaska, Hawaii, or Puerto Rico, you’ll have to also cover the cost of shipping (listed at $40 at the time of writing). They’re not available outside the US right now.

That’s a pretty hefty price tag considering that both the Shokz OpenSwim Pro and the H2O Audio Tri 2 Pro Multi-Sport cost much less, with the Shokz going for $179.95 / £169 / AU$299 and the H2O Audio going for $199.99 / £155.68 (about AU$310). Since those two headphones use built-in MP3 players for audio while in the water, they do sound a little better.

But that’s a little unfair to the Zygo Z2 as it offers a lot more than just a pair of headphones to use in the water. As I’ve mentioned, these are basically the Peloton of the pool. Yes, most of the features are locked behind a subscription, but that subscription is $4.99 a month for access to all the pool-focused exercises (including some weight training for the pool ones) as well as the walkie-talkie and lap counting features. No other swimming headphones do that, so the expense is worth it if you’re serious about swimming but want a little help.

Price: 4 / 5

Zygo Z2: Scorecard

Attributes

Notes

Rating

Value

The Zygo Z2 are expensive and have a lot of features locked behind a paywall. But these headphones also have a lot to offer.

4 / 5

Design

A tight fit and decent battery life (once you include all the additional charges of the charging case), along with a unique type of connectivity make these ideal for the pool.

4.5 / 5

Performance

While I wish there was more bass in terms of audio quality, it does sound clear. Plus, the app’s features from lap counting and the walkie talkie to all the classes really make set the Z2 apart.

4 / 5

Average rating

These swimming headphones are pricey, but the unique radio transmission and Peloton-like ecosystem make it an easy recommendation for swimmers looking to step up their game.

4 / 5

Zygo Z2: Should I buy?

(Image credit: Future)Buy it if...

You want access to the Peloton of the Pool

Having all those classes at one’s fingertips is such a help for anyone serious (or wanting to get serious) about swimming, s, just like a Peloton is more than just an exercise bike.

You don’t want to deal with MP3s

In the age of streaming, it’s a pain loading MP3s as required with other swimming headphones. The Zygo Z2 skip all that with their ability to use radio transmission.

Don't buy it if...

Audio Quality is your number one concern

The lack of bass is unfortunate, but not surprising since radio waves tend to compress audio. Still, if you care most about audio quality and not so much about loading MP3s or the classes, there are other swimming headphones that sound a little better.

You’re on a budget

Not only are the headphones almost double the price of even other other premium swimming headphones, but a lot of the features are locked behind a (admittedly affordable) subscription.

Also consider

Shokz Openswim Pro

The Shokz Openswim Pro are waterproof with a comfortable and tight fit, and come with a good nine hours of battery life. Just be prepared to get some MP3s to put on it as you won’t be turning to Spotify while in the water.

Read our full Shokz Openswim Pro review

H2O Audio Tri 2 Pro Multi-Sport

The H2O Audio Tri 2 Pro Multi-Sport are not cheap (though they’re cheaper than the Z2), but they have a strong battery life, complete waterproofing, and onboard storage as well as a special Playlist+ feature that untethers you from your phone during a run or swim.

Read our full H2O Audio Tri 2 Pro Multi-Sport review

How I tested the Zygo Z2

• Tested over a couple weeks
• Listened to different genres of music
• Tested all the different features

I spent a couple weeks testing the Zygo Z2 including a couple laps in an Olympic size pool as well as just hanging out underwater to listen to them. While using them, I listened to all sorts of genres from electronic and hip-hop to rock and acoustic music to get an idea of how they sound. I also tested the various features, including the exercises and walkie-talkie.

After testing, it’s clear that these are ideal for serious swimmers, especially those who need a workout program to get the most out of their time in the pool. If you’re curious about how bone conduction headphones work, check out the linked article for more details on how headphones like these work.

I’ve spent the last few years reviewing audio equipment and have spent even longer using my critical ear as a listener and musician to understand what does and doesn’t sound good.

• First reviewed December 2025

Marshall Bromley 450: two-minute review

The Marshall Bromley 450 is the second party speaker that the audio specialist has released. It’s a smaller variant of its older sibling, but aims to condense everything we like about that model into a less costly, more mobile unit. But just how well can it do that?

Well, at first glance, the similarities between the Marshall Bromley 450 and its sibling are striking. It has a very similar amp-inspired build, it's got those classic tactical knobs for controlling volume, bass, and treble levels, and it's adorned with the golden Marshall logo. But the similarities don’t stop there.

Its older sibling sits in our guide to the best Bluetooth speakers around, so unsurprisingly, the sound signature here is actually quite similar. You get agile and punchy, yet warm bass, which really feels like the star of the show. But you also get controller, expressive highs, paired with decently-detailed mids. Like the Marshall Bromley 750 before it, this is a great-sounding speaker, and has the raw power required to offer awesome audio outdoors as well as indoors.

My criticisms of the Bromley 450’s sound are very few and far between. It doesn’t offer the most rippling sub-bass, and I needed to adjust EQ now and then to get vocals to sound their best in particular tracks. But these are pretty minor qualms, and this is still an impressive performer — especially when you account for this model’s excellent soundstage, stereo sound capabilities, and ‘true’ 360-degree stereophonic sound tech.

Something else I highly rate is the Bromley 450’s design. Its premium construction — with faux-leather casing, a metal grille, and golden details — is as stunning as it was before. Meanwhile, the included handle makes it relatively easy to transport, even if this is a hefty model overall. The Bromley 750's wheels and suitcase-esque handle are gone here though, which makes this a little tougher to carry over longer distances.

Still, you get better protection against the elements compared to the Bromley 750, with this smaller alternative packing an IP55 rating. This means that the speaker is dust-protected, and can withstand multi-directional water jets, making it a good fit for outdoor use.

You will make a few sacrifices when choosing the Bromley 450 over Marshall’s larger party speaker, though. You get less power, and thus slightly less omnipresence through the deep bass registers — understandable given that the Bromley 450 covers a little less of the frequency range. But you also lose the sound character control feature, which enables you to find the right balance between ‘dynamic’ or ‘loud’ audio output.

But still, you do get quite strong functionality from the Bromley 450, all things considered. It has a whole host of connectivity options, including XLR/6.35mm slots for karaoke and instruments. It supports Auracast for multi-speaker pairing with another Bromley unit or other Marshall speakers — like the Marshall Middleton II or Marshall Kilburn III. And it has a replaceable battery which packs an incredible 40 hours of playtime, and can be used as a portable charger.

And if all of this wasn’t enough, you also get classy stage-inspired lighting, with three dynamic options for different vibes. You can also turn these off if you want to conserve more battery life.

If there’s one flaw that sticks out to me, it's the Marshall app. It feels underbaked, lacking EQ controls or the ability to adjust effects like delay and reverb. I wish you had more ways to remotely control this unit, especially if you’re further away from it and want to make a quick adjustment to the bass, for instance.

But overall, there’s a whole lot to love about the Marshall Bromley 450. It does a great job at shrinking the 750’s talents down and replicating them, and it's a luxurious party speaker in just about every way imaginable.

Yes, it comes at quite the cost, and those on a tighter budget may favor a rival from the JBL PartyBox line. But the Marshall Bromley 450 is almost a different proposition entirely — it’s masterfully constructed, built to be a true centerpiece, and brings an air of retro-style classiness that its RGB-laden contemporaries fail to deliver.

(Image credit: Future)Marshall Bromley 450 review: price and release date

• List price of $799.99 / £549.99 / AU$1,079
• Available now via the Marshall website
• And available from other select retailers from March 31, 2026

The Marshall Bromley 450 launched in March 2026 for $799.99 / £549.99 / AU$1,079. It’s available now via Marshall’s digital store, but select retailers will also begin to sell the speaker from March 31, 2026. It’s available in a single colorway — Black & Brass.

The Bromley 450 is the younger sibling of the Marshall Bromley 750 — Marshall’s first party speaker which is larger, more powerful, and in turn, a lot pricier. The Bromley 750 comes in at $1,299 / £899 / AU$1,799, placing it in competition with speakers such as the JBL PartyBox 720.

Marshall Bromley 450 review: specs

Weight

26.9lbs / 12.2kg

Dimensions

19.4 x 14.2 x 10.3 inches / 492 x 359.9 x 260.9mm

Connectivity

Bluetooth 5.3, 3.5mm, USB-C, RCA, 2x XLR/6.35mm combo jacks

Battery life

40 hours

Speaker drivers

2x 6.5-inch 40W woofers, 4x 2-inch 6W full-ranges

Waterproofing

IP55

(Image credit: Future)Marshall Bromley 450 review: features

• Excellent connectivity options, including XLR/6.35mm slots for karaoke / instruments
• Phenomenal 40-hour battery life
• Sound character control left out, app is underwhelming

The Marshall Bromley 450 follows in its larger sibling’s footsteps with an incredibly similar feature suite. So that means you’re getting the basics, like multi-point connectivity, fast-pairing, and companion app support, although there’s a decent amount more to uncover.

First of all, this thing has a whole host of connectivity options. You’ve got Bluetooth 5.3, 3.5mm wired, USB-C, and even RCA inputs. If you’d like to use this unit as a karaoke machine, then no problem either. There are two XLR / 6.35mm combo jacks on the top side of the speaker, which you can use. Again, there are effects you can add, including reverb and delay if you wanna spice things up a bit.

Another thing I love about the Marshall Bromley 450 is its battery life. 40 hours of playtime is absolutely fantastic for a speaker of this size, blowing most of the competition out of the water. But there’s more. This is actually the same battery used on the Marshall Bromley 750, meaning you can interchange them if you own both units. This also highlights Marshall’s heightened efforts in the sustainability field again — it's issuing components that can be used across multiple units, and are fully replaceable.

The battery can also be used as a power bank to charge up external devices, such as the best wireless earbuds and best noise-cancelling headphones.

One more feature I appreciated on the Marshall Bromley 450 was its Auracast capabilities. Although more traditional multi-speaker pairing is not available, you can connect a bunch of compatible Marshall devices together using Auracast for even more powerful and immersive sound. I tried linking the Bromley 450 up with the Marshall Kilburn III and it worked without a hitch. I also tried linking it with a second Bromley 450 unit — something I’ll discuss at length in the ‘Sound quality’ section.

This is all great stuff so far, but I do have a few qualms with the Bromley 450’s feature-set. First of all, I have to say that the Marshall companion app feels a bit bare. Although there are some neat physical EQ options on the speaker itself — which let you adjust bass and treble levels — there’s no way of altering this remotely. The same goes for the reverb and delay effects.

Yes, the app provides a way to tap into Auracast broadcasts, and some simple customization options for the ‘M’ button, but that’s about it. Given that Marshall has rolled out a more complete app for its home theater tech — like the Marshall Heston 120 and Heston 60 — I’d expect a few more controls for the Bromley 450.

On top of this, it was a bit of a shame to see the sound character controls from the Bromley 750 get dropped on this new model. This worked really well on that model, and enabled listeners to tailor audio towards a ‘dynamic’ or ‘loud’ style. I get it, this is a smaller, cheaper model, but it would’ve been nice to see again here.

But I want to be clear: the Marshall Bromley 450 still has a very capable set of features. I haven’t even mentioned my favorite yet, the integrated stage lights. There are three presets: the first is ambient, suited to an occasion like a dinner party or solo listening session; the second is representative of actual stage lights, with bold and dynamic patterns that sync to your music; and the final preset is high-energy and flashy, intended to create more of a party atmosphere.

All of the presets work well, and the white lighting is tasteful and classy — something that I can’t say about the swathe of party speakers with loud RGB lighting. The second is my favorite, simply for its authenticity and dynamism, but I was glad to see an option to disable lights for the moments where you want to conserve battery life.

• Features score: 4/5

(Image credit: Future)Marshall Bromley 450 review: sound quality

• Energetic sound that rocks indoor and outdoor spaces
• Excellent soundstage and no real sweet spot
• Powerful bass overall, although the darkest depths could hit harder

I was a big fan of how the Marshall Bromley 750 sounded, so I had pretty high hopes for its lil’ bro. But did it deliver? Yes, yes it did.

Let me begin by stating the obvious: this is a seriously powerful model. The Bromley 450 harnesses the power of two 6.5-inch 40W woofers, four 2-inch 6W full-ranges, and a couple of passive radiators to make that bass feel even heftier. The result is powerful, regimented sound that travels brilliantly, no matter whether you’re listening indoors or outdoors.

When tuning into Timeless by Shinchiro Yokota, I was wowed by the impact of mid-bass, as well as the snappiness of higher-pitched percussion. The speaker’s sense of rhythm and handling of dynamics also remained impressive, whether I was listening at low volumes or cranking things up towards max loudness.

In Morning Wonders – Leo Pol Remix by Kolter, a track with pretty aggressive drums in the treble range, the Bromley 450 replicated highs with confidence. There was a snappy responsiveness and satisfying tone to percussion, even while the tune’s intent-filled bass consumed our music testing space.

As the Bromley 750’s smaller sibling, you are of course going to make a few sacrifices in terms of sound. Most noticeably, the Bromley 450 is less powerful — but it's also less adept at handling the darkest sounds in the frequency range. For instance, tracks with rippling low bass, like Max Dean’s Fascinator, didn’t quite have that full-sounding rumble that mightier models can muster. Sub-bass is audible in tracks, don't get me wrong, and the Bromley 450 can still reach down to a solid 42Hz, just don’t expect the most palpable deep bass ever.

One minor thing I noticed is that there’s also a bit of compression at absolute peak volumes. This is pretty common for Bluetooth speakers, but the Bromley 750 barely showed any hints of compression — in part thanks to its sound character control function, which helped the speaker sound ultra-clean in ‘Dynamic’ mode.

My complaints run out there though. Sure, vocals could sound a little subdued at times when I listened to voice-led tunes indoors. But two things: the onboard EQ options totally solved this issue — I just had to turn the bass down two notches; and this speaker is designed for parties rather than the most detailed, high-fidelity listening.

Overall, the Marshall Bromley 450 is a very strong performer in the audio department. Its punchy bass, direct-sound, and vibrant treble are great of course. But the inclusion of Marshall’s 360-degree ‘true stereophonic’ audio tech also helps this unit to stand out among the crowd.

This thing genuinely sounds awesome from every angle. It doesn’t matter if you’re in front, behind, near, or far away from the speaker, it doesn’t have any real acoustic sweet spot. This tech impressed me on smaller speakers like the Marshall Kilburn III, but it was even more striking on a hulking model like the Bromley 450.

In a product briefing, Marshall also explained how the speaker’s full-range drivers are mounted on the four sides of the speaker (two on the left, two on the right) which keeps stereo channels well separated for a more immersive listening experience.

One more note on sound: this thing can reach new heights if you pair it with a second unit via Auracast. I was lucky enough to be testing the Bromley 450 at the same time as my Future colleague, Nikita, and we decided to combine our two units outside, via an Auracast broadcast from my phone. And the results were exceptional.

In Felini by Venerus and Marco Castello, I was astonished by how absorbing the trickle of flowing waters and strumming of natural acoustic guitars sounded. It really felt as if I was standing front and center at a gig. And with deeper tracks like Chris Stussy’s Breather, I was enveloped in pumping, euphoric bass. Of course, you’ll get awesome power with multiple units as well — when positioning the speaker on the far side of a parking lot, I could still hear that rich bass from the other side. Impressive stuff.

• Sound quality score: 4.5/5

(Image credit: Future)Marshall Bromley 450 review: design

• Classy Marshall aesthetic is as satisfying as ever
• Tasteful lights and premium physical controls
• Very hefty, and the wheels are no more

Every time that I review a Marshall product, I feel like I’m repeating myself. But that’s simply because I’m always full of praise for the captivating retro-style design that the company brings to each and every product. And the Marshall Bromley 450 is no different.

Everything from the faux-leather casing, through to its metal grille and golden details is a joy to behold — just as it was on the Bromley 750. This is a pricey model, but you do feel like the luxurious looks, high quality materials, and tasteful stage lights help to make your investment feel worthwhile.

The golden control panel on top of the speaker is also laid out beautifully, and is incredibly easy to use. Red LEDs symbolize which connectivity option you’re using, and tactical knobs are available to alter volume, bass and treble levels, and more. The mic and instrument ports are also located on top of the speaker this time, making it even easier to get a guitar performance or karaoke session underway.

Something that Marshall Bromley 450 actually improves on compared to its pricier sibling is its protection against the elements. You’re getting an IP55 rating here, which means that the speaker is dust-protected, and can withstand multi-directional water jets. In practice, this essentially means that the Bromley 450 is perfect for taking into outdoor spaces, and will be able to handle a spot of rain without issue. As the Bromley 450 is smaller than its older sibling, and easier to take outdoors, this feels like a very smart design decision indeed.

But what else is different from the Bromley 750? Well, the most noticeable difference is the removal of wheels. Yep, this is a wheelless Party Speaker, and you’ll have to lug it around using the handle on the side of the unit. Now don’t get me wrong: the handle is well-made, but if you’re transporting this thing over long distances, a word of warning.

This speaker is honestly pretty hefty, coming in at 26.9lbs / 12.2kg. Sure, the 750 was essentially double the weight, but its suitcase-style handle and wheels made it fairly painless to lug about. If you’re keeping your speaker in one place, or only moving it over short distances, the handle will certainly suffice, but its weight is worth keeping in mind.

• Design score: 4.5/5

(Image credit: Future)Marshall Bromley 450 review: value

• It’s by no means cheap
• But quality is undeniably high, even compared to rivals
• Repairability makes the speaker feel like a worthwhile investment

Let’s not beat around the bush here. The Marshall Bromley 450 is an expensive model, even when you consider its output power and sonic talents. But a high price doesn’t mean a speaker can’t be good value for money.

And I do think you get bang for your buck overall with this model. At $799.99 / £549.99 / AU$1,079, the Bromley 450 is costlier than similarly powered rivals, like the JBL PartyBox Stage 320, for instance. But, in turn, you’re getting considerably better battery life, improved dust and waterproofing, a more luxurious build, and a larger array of speaker drivers.

Is that going to be worth it? It depends. For some, the lower price and specs of the JBL speaker will be plenty good enough. But if you’re looking for a premium quality, long-lasting option, then the Marshall may be more attractive.

On top of this, the Bromley 450 is repairable, with Marshall offering maintenance and parts via its website. That helps the speaker to feel like a worthwhile investment for years to come rather than a short-term audio solution.

• Value score: 4/5

(Image credit: Future)Should I buy the Marshall Bromley 450?

Attributes

Notes

Rating

Features

Brilliant battery life, connectivity options, and stage lights – but the companion app is underequipped.

4/5

Sound quality

Powerful, spacious sound, with no real drop off in listening angles, deep bass could be a little more full sounding.

4.5/5

Design

Stellar, luxurious looks with IP55 dust and waterproofing, but pretty hefty and no wheels this time.

4.5/5

Value

It’s pricey, but you get a luxury build and great sound, with top-tier battery life.

4/5

Buy it if...

You enjoy hosting parties
If you regularly host parties or gatherings, the Marshall Bromley 450 is the ideal speaker. It has great sound that can handle intimate indoor occasions or high-energy outdoor events, different light settings for different moods, ports if you want to hook up guitars or mics, and waterproofing for outdoor use.

You want a speaker that oozes style
The Bromley 450 is truly luxurious looking, and I love its combination of faux-leather casing, golden details, and a premium metal grille. It's far sleeker and sexier than the JBL PartyBox line, and makes your investment feel even more worthwhile.

Don't buy it if...

You’re on a budget
If you want the most cost-efficient option, the Marshall Bromley 450 isn’t going to be your best bet. Yes, it offers a good bang for your buck with great build quality and sound, but that doesn’t change the fact it’s pricey. The aforementioned JBL speakers can deliver powerful audio for less, and if you don’t need earth-shaking sound, you could even consider the LG option I’ve listed in the ‘Also consider’ section.

You want the most powerful sound around
Yes, the Bromley 450 is mighty, and it will have more than enough power for small-to-medium-sized parties and gatherings. But if you’re hosting a larger event, it might be worth checking out the larger Marshall Bromley 750, or a speaker with higher peak volume and stronger deep bass replication.

Marshall Bromley 450 review: also consider

Marshall Bromley 450

JBL PartyBox Stage 320

LG xboom Stage 301

Price

$799.99 / £549.99 / AU$1,079

$629.95 / £449.99 / AU$749.95

$299.99 / £299.99 / AU$449

Weight

26.9lbs / 12.2kg

36.4lbs / 16.5kg

14.7lbs / 6.7kg

Dimensions

19.4 x 14.2 x 10.3 inches / 492 x 359.9 x 260.9mm

13.3 x 26.3 x 15.2 inches / 335 x 670 x 385mm

12.3 x 12.2 x 11.1 inches / 312 x 311 x 282mm

Connectivity

Bluetooth 5.3, 3.5mm, USB-C, RCA, 2x XLR / 6.35mm combo jacks

Bluetooth 5.4, 3.5mm, 2x XLR / 6.35mm combo jacks

Bluetooth 5.4, 3.5mm, 6.3mm (mic/guitar) USB (MP3 playback)

Battery life

40 hours

18 hours

12 hours

Speaker drivers

2x 6.5-inch 40W woofers, 4x 2-inch 6W full-ranges, 2x passive radiators

2 x 6.5-inch woofers, 2 x 1-inch dome tweeters

2x 2.5-inch mid-range drivers; 1x 6.5-inch woofer

Waterproofing

IP55

IPX4

IPX4

JBL PartyBox Stage 320
Marshall is gunning for JBL with its move into party speakers, and perhaps the most comparable model to the Bromley 450 is the PartyBox Stage 320. This unit is a little cheaper than its Marshall rival, but it isn’t as well-protected against the elements, has a shorter battery life, and has a less comprehensive set of drivers. I’m yet to test this one, so I can’t speak to its sound quality, but with flashy RGB lights and plenty of connectivity options, it’s certainly ready to party.

LG xboom Stage 301
This one’s a little different, but it’s still great for smaller parties or gatherings. The LG xboom Stage 301 is a wedge-shaped stage-style speaker that’s packed with fun features, clean audio, and flashy lighting. It’s not as powerful or luxurious looking as Marshall’s speaker, sure, but it’s considerably cheaper, and still has a bunch of connectivity options — including support for mics and guitars. Read my full LG xboom Stage 301 review.

How I tested the Marshall Bromley 450

(Image credit: Future)

• Spent hours listening to music both indoors and outdoors
• Used alone and while paired with a second unit via Auracast
• Predominantly tested using Tidal

I spent hours listening to music on the Marshall Bromley 450, during which time I exhausted its various features and tried it both indoors and outdoors.

When listening to tunes, I made sure to try out a wide variety of genres, and run through tracks in the TechRadar testing playlist. For the most part, I used Tidal to blast my tunes, but I also dipped into Spotify now and then. I used the Bromley 450 on its own to begin with, but I also had the opportunity to pair it with a second unit, and connected the two together via Auracast.

More generally, I’m an experienced audio gear reviewer, and have spent the last two years testing everything from premium headphones — like the Sony WH-1000XM6 — through to some of the best Dolby Atmos soundbars, including the LG Sound Suite Immersive Suite 7 Pro. I also reviewed the Marshall Bromley 750 myself, so I’m intimately familiar with Marshall’s quality in the party speaker domain.

• First reviewed: March 2026
• Read more about how we test

Oukitel WP61 Plus: 30-second review

Unveiled at IFA 2025 in Berlin, the Oukitel WP61 Plus is the brand's flagship all-in-one rugged smartphone, featuring a 20,000 mAh battery, an integrated 2W DMR walkie-talkie, and a high-powered camping flashlight.

But what is likely to confuse people is that the WP60 and WP62 have been available for some time, but Oukitel held the WP61 Plus back.

Built for outdoor professionals, search-and-rescue workers, or those who routinely find themselves in the great outdoors, the WP61 Plus is entering a highly competitive market.

There are four versions of the WP61 that all share the same SoC, memory, and storage model but differ in the special features included. There is a base model, the Plus model reviewed here, that has a 2W DMR walkie-talkie, the WP61 Ultra with thermal imaging, and the WP61 Ti with NTN Skylo Satellite communications.

All of them use the Dimensity 7025 processor, have 12GB of RAM, 512GB of storage and the same 108MP primary camera.

The large 6.8-inch FHD+ display runs at 120Hz, which is a welcome touch for a rugged device, and Android 16 puts it on the cutting edge for that platform

Where the WP61 Plus truly distinguishes itself, however, is in its extended utility features. The built-in DMR (Digital Mobile Radio) walkie-talkie operates at 2W and is designed to maintain group communications in areas where cellular coverage fails.

Oukitel quotes a range of 5.5km (3.4 miles) for DMR communications, but this will work without any cell service.

Combined with the camping light and the ability to act as a power bank for smaller devices, this phone is positioned less as a smartphone and more as a portable field communications and survival tool.

The only significant downside of this design is its physical scale; at over 650g, this isn’t a small or lightweight design, and with the walkie-talkie antenna attached, it becomes even more unwieldy.

The WP61 Plus might not break into our best rugged smartphone selection, but if you are looking for a general-purpose rugged phone for an adventure trek, then it could be an option.

(Image credit: Mark Pickavance)Oukitel WP61 Plus: price and availability

• How much does it cost? $370/£280/€323
• When is it out? Available soon
• Where can you get it? You can get it directly from Oukitel or via online retailers such as Amazon.

Direct from Oukitel, the asking price for the WP61 Plus is $369.99/£279.99/€322.68, which is a good deal if you accept the view that this is a discount from $499.99/£378.37/€436.06, a price at which this product has never been sold.

You read that correctly. At the time of writing, while Oukitel are promoting this product, it remains out of stock. Also, it’s not available via online retailers, but that’s probably right around the corner.

The Plus model is $50 more than the base model, but $60 less than the Ultra option. There is no price yet for the Satellite model.

There are lots of phones that use the same or similar SoCs, like the Blackview Oscal Tank 1, RugOne Xever 7 Pro, Doogee S200 and Oukitel WP300. All these are cheaper, but lack the DMR walkie-talkie technology.

Blackview has the Xplore 1 Walkie Talkie that sells for €383.95 direct from the makers, a good amount more than the WP61 Plus.

The Unihertz Atom XL is a much smaller phone with the same DMR technology, priced at $289.99 at the official Unihertz outlet. However, I’d avoid this phone because there are no US or Global models.

A better choice is the Armour 26 Ultra Walkie-Talkie, but its base price is $649.99, making it substantially more expensive.

For a DMR-capable phone, the WP61 Plus is reasonably priced, though it might seem a little expensive for the platform specification.

(Image credit: Mark Pickavance)

• Value score: 4/5

Oukitel WP61 Plus: Specs

Item

Spec

CPU:

MediaTek Dimensity 7025 (6nm)

GPU:

IMG BXM-8-256

NPU:

MediaTek's APU 780

RAM:

12GB

Storage:

512GB

Screen:

6.8-inch FHD+ LCD

Resolution:

1080 x 2460 pixels 650nits

SIM:

2x Nano SIM + TF (one shared position)

Weight:

651.6 grams

Dimensions:

179.5 x 85 x 27.5 mm

Rugged Spec:

IP68 IP69K dust/water resistant (up to 2m for 30 minutes), MIL-STD-810H Certification

Rear cameras:

108MP Camera + 8MP Night vision +2MP macro

Front camera:

32MP Sony IMX616

Networking:

5G bands, WiFi 5, Bluetooth 5.2

Audio:

130 dB 5W speaker

OS:

Android 16

Battery:

20000 mAh (45W wired, 5W reverse charge)

Colours:

Black

Oukitel WP61 Plus: design

• Built for the field, not the pocket
• DMR Antenna
• Standard layout

The WP61 Plus makes no apologies for its bulk. At 179.5 x 85 x 27.5 mm, it is a substantial device, and one that is clearly engineered to accommodate its enormous 20,000mAh battery alongside the walkie-talkie antenna hardware and camping light module. The extra 27.5 mm of depth alone sets it apart as a very different prospect from a standard smartphone, and not one you can easily fit in a pocket.

What can make this design even more challenging to store is that in the box is a 92mm antenna for the DMR walkie-talkie that screws into the top right of the phone. You can choose not to attach that, but I presume that will impact the ability to communicate using that functionality.

The Oukitel WP series devices have traditionally used a combination of reinforced polycarbonate and aluminium alloy framing, and the WP61 doesn’t deviate from that, making it a device that can withstand heavy abuse.

The device supports a 'seat charger', a docking cradle that allows the phone to be mounted and charged in a fixed location, such as a vehicle dashboard or on a desk. This is a thoughtful addition for fleet operators or those who need their device always charged and ready. The dock isn’t included as standard, and its arrival date and price haven't been released yet.

(Image credit: Mark Pickavance)

In terms of the general aesthetics and layout, there isn’t anything especially surprising about the WP61 Plus. The button arrangement is the one most rugged phones use, with the power (doubling as a fingerprint reader) and volume buttons on the right, the custom button on the left, where the SIM tray is also placed.

The buttons are all metal, and the sides of the chassis are all machined aluminium, making this phone feel both comfortable to hold and seemingly indestructible.

Both the top and bottom edges feature a waterproof plug: one for the antenna on the top and another covering the USB port on the bottom. Both of these are held in place with screws, suggesting they could be replaced when they wear out if Oukitel makes replacements available.

To avoid wearing out the USB-C cover, the dock has four metal contact points on its bottom face, allowing it to be charged without inserting a cable.

The rear has three noticeable features: a camping light, a 5W speaker, and the camera cluster. The 1200-lumen camping light is obscured by a reference sticker that contains important information you don’t want to misplace by peeling it off and throwing it away, annoyingly.

According to Oukitel, the speaker is rated at 130 dB, which would undoubtedly damage your hearing if you held it against your ear while it was making noise. The top-centre placement of that speaker also pushes the three rear camera lenses to the phone's outer edge, which isn’t ideal.

While I’ve seen worse, the WP61 Plus seems to try to be many things at once and has slightly compromised some of its features in the process.

(Image credit: Mark Pickavance)

Design score: 3.5/5

Oukitel WP61 Plus: hardware

• MediaTek Dimensity 7025
• 20000 mAh battery
• Walkie-talkie

This is the third phone I’ve covered that uses the MediaTek Dimensity 7025, and I haven’t changed my opinion of it.

Instead of this being a new and exciting SoC, it’s a renaming of the older Dimensity 930, a chip from May 2022. If you research this silicon, you will find that the Dimensity 7025 was launched in 2024, but the underlying chip is at least two years older.

That explains why all the 70XX SoCs are made using a 6nm process, whereas all the 73XX and 74XX chips use the new and superior 4nm process.

Ironically, that’s not the biggest issue with this platform, since, as SoCs go, the Dimensity 7025 is an effective power-efficient system that delivers a good user experience for the most part.

A bigger problem is that the CPU is coupled with the IMG BXM-8-256 GPU, one of those PowerVR IMG designs that is poor by modern standards. It drives the Android 16 interface reasonably, but it's not a game-friendly GPU. Critically, it lacks some of the OpenGL and Vulkan functionality that interactive graphics apps often use.

For the WP61 Plus's intended use cases, it is a sensible and efficient choice, but more modern MediaTek designs, such as the Dimensity 7300 and 7400, offer far more potential.

In large, rugged phones, a 20000 mAh battery isn’t exceptional, but this device helps because it supports a 45W charger, which is included. That enables the phone to charge from zero to full capacity in about four hours, and get more than half of a charge in ninety minutes.

This is dramatically better than the WP60 offered with the same battery capacity, as that phone could only charge at 33W. Though, as I recall, the WP60 did reverse charge at 7W, where the WP61 Plus only puts out 5W.

(Image credit: Mark Pickavance)

You can get a similar platform and battery in a wide range of rugged phones, but the final feature I’ll talk about here is something that is in relatively few: a DMR (Digital Mobile Radio) walkie-talkie.

The radio in the WP61 Plus transmits at 2W, which is a meaningful output for direct device-to-device communication. DMR is a professional-grade digital radio standard, typically used in construction, security, and emergency services, making this a genuine productivity tool rather than a novelty. And, the hardware here can also work with Analogue technologies, alongside DMR-capable handsets.

As I only have one WP61 Plus, I wasn’t able to test the assertion that communication of over 5.5km was possible, but the technology is capable of that, so I don’t doubt it could work at that range in theory. The beauty of this technology is that it doesn't rely on any other infrastructure to operate, though the practical range may be limited by terrain.

For those working together off the grid or at a building site, the range seems enough to be practical, even if it won’t work if you travel beyond the potential range, or put a mountain between those talking.

The custom button opens the DMR app to initiate a call, and you can select a channel to communicate over. While you can add custom channels, the app includes the standard DMR-approved channels for a range of countries, including Europe, the USA, Australia, and Taiwan. Iran, Korea, Malaysia, Russia, Japan and China.

As a matter of interest, I researched the DMR frequencies for various countries, and discovered that for some, like India, for higher power transmitters like this one, using 5W and with better range, a WPC license is required. So if you are not in any of the countries I previously listed, it might be worth researching which DMR channels you can use and any other clearances required before purchasing.

Even with those potential caveats, the DMR part of this device is undoubtedly the best aspect, should you have more than one of these or other DMR handsets to hand.

• Hardware score: 4/5

Oukitel WP61 Plus: cameras

• 108MP, 8MP night vision and 2MP Macro on the rear
• 32MP on the front
• Four cameras in total

(Image credit: Mark Pickavance)

The Oukitel WP61 Plus has four cameras:

Rear camera: 108MP Samsung ISOCELL HM6 (S5KHM6), 8MP SK Hynix Hi-846 night vision IR sensor, 2MP BYD BF2257CS Macro
Front camera: 32MP Sony IMX616 Sensor

Oddly, this camera arrangement is remarkably similar to a range of phones I’ve recently reviewed, except that many of them use a GalaxyCore sensor for the 2MP macro function, whereas the WP61 Plus uses the BYD BF2257CS for the same job.

The combination of the 108MP Samsung ISOCELL HM6 (S5KHM6) and the 8MP SK Hynix Hi-846 night-vision IR sensor was seen on the Oukitel WP60 Pro. But that phone didn’t use the Sony IMX616 front-facing sensor, and it used a GalaxyCore GC02M1 for the Macro.

The Sony IMX616 is better than the 32MP GalaxyCore GC32E1, but the 2MP Macro sensors don’t make a huge difference to the close-up shooting you can do.

The weakness of this layout is that the 108MP Samsung ISOCELL HM6 (S5KHM6) is used to avoid the need for zoom optics by providing a high-resolution sensor that can be cropped or pixel-binned. It offers a range of zoom settings from 1.0x to 4.0x. But it’s still not as good as having actual zoom optics, as the zoom jumps between settings, and the results for some digital zoom factors are better than for others.

The SK Hynix Hi-846 night vision sensor delivers impressive results in complete darkness, although it captures only in monochrome. And the Macro sensor is exceptionally grainy and requires excessive amounts of light to produce passable results.

Probably the biggest disappointment of this camera is that the primary Samsung ISOCELL has a resolution of 108MP, and you can shoot at that full resolution, but incredibly, the best video resolution available is only 1440p. That this phone, with a 108MP sensor, can’t offer 4K video is embarrassing.

The hardware is rated for 8K at 24 frames per second (fps) and 4K at 120fps, so the video resolution is down to the choices Oukitel made about the SoC and the Android camera application.

This camera can take some excellent still images, but if I were to drag a phone this big and heavy about the wilderness, I would at least expect it to shoot 4K video.

(Image credit: Mark Pickavance)Oukitel WP61 Plus Camera samplesMark PickavanceMark PickavanceMark PickavanceMark PickavanceMark PickavanceMark PickavanceMark PickavanceMark PickavanceMark PickavanceMark PickavanceMark PickavanceMark Pickavance

• Camera score: 3/5

Oukitel WP61 Plus: performance

• Older 6nm SoC
• GPU issues with OpenGL 3.1 and Vulkan 1.3
• Great battery life

Phone

Oukitel WP61 Plus

Blackview Oscal Tank 1

SoC

MediaTek Dimensity 7025

MediaTek Dimensity 7050

GPU

IMG BXM-8-256

Mali‑G68 MC4

NPU

MediaTek's APU 780

MediaTek NPU 550

Memory

12GB/512GB

12GB/256GB

Weight

656g

640g

Battery

20000

20000

Geekbench

Single

959

920

Multi

2362

2466

OpenCL

failed

2471

Vulkan

failed

3036

PCMark

3.0 Score

13080

11684

Battery

40h 9m Est.

33h 57m Est.

Charge 30

%

28

13

Passmark

Score

6620

6861

CPU

5284

5285

3DMark

Slingshot OGL

3741

5293

Slingshot Ex. OGL

3738

4150

Slingshot Ex. Vulkan

2614

3940

Wildlife

Failed

2232

Nomad Lite

Failed

266

Rather than putting the WP61 Plus against another phone with the same SoC, I thought it might be appropriate to compare it with a marginally better chip, so I chose the Blackview Oscal Tank 1. It uses the MediaTek Dimensity 7050, slightly better than the 7025.

Both of these phones have the same battery capacity and RAM, which makes them closer to each other than many other rugged phones. size

What these results show is that the Dimensity 7025 is modestly slower than the 7050 used in the Tank 1, until you test it with a graphics benchmark. The IMG BXM-8-256 GPU can’t run the OpenGL and Vulkan APIs used by GeekBench and is required for 3DMark Wildlife and Nomad Lite.

But the upside of poor GPU performance is that the battery lasts much longer, with the WP61 Plus running for more than 40 hours. However, that result is a predicted endpoint because, like the Oscal Tank 1, the WP61 Plus crashed PCMark before exhausting the battery. Not sure if this is an issue with the benchmark or how both these phone makers are managing their batteries.

The overall performance of the WP61 Plus is fine for most uses, but it's not a phone that gamers or anyone who uses VR will embrace. However, with curation, the battery could easily last six days or more, which could be useful off-grid.

• Performance score: 4/5

(Image credit: Mark Pickavance)Oukitel WP61 Plus: Final verdict

The Oukitel WP61 Plus is a device that sets out to do something genuinely different in a crowded market. Rather than competing solely on processing power or camera resolution, it bundles a professional-grade walkie-talkie, an enormous battery, and a camping light into a package that could plausibly replace multiple pieces of equipment for an outdoor professional or expedition team.

The Dimensity 7025 is not the most exciting chipset, and the physical dimensions mean this is not a device you will comfortably carry in a trouser pocket. But if your priorities are extended endurance, off-grid communications, and resilience in harsh environments, the WP61 Plus presents a compelling case at the asking price.

How useful DMR technology is to you will depend on whether you already use it or intend to buy multiple phones for walkie-talkie use. If it’s not something you'll use immediately, you could save yourself $50 by buying the base model, since it has everything else I’ve mentioned here.

Should I buy a Oukitel WP61 Plus?Oukitel WP61 Plus Score Card

Attributes

Notes

Rating

Value

Reasonable cost for a well-made device

4/5

Design

Substantial but purpose-built for outdoor use

3.5/5

Hardware

Unique walkie-talkie, 20,000mAh battery and mid-range SoC

4/5

Camera

Good for still images, but the lack of 4K video is poor

3/5

Performance

Great battery life, but sub-par GPU performance

4/5

Overall

Good price, excellent battery life and DMR

4/5

Buy it if...

You need off-grid communications
The built-in DMR walkie-talkie provides professional-grade radio communications without requiring a separate device, making it ideal for outdoor teams, construction sites, and expeditions.

You need extended battery life
Few smartphones can match a 20,000mAh battery for sheer staying power. If you're spending days or weeks away from mains power, the WP61 Plus could be your best option.

Don't buy it if...

You need a daily driver
The large frame is not practical for everyday pocket carry. If you need a rugged phone for general daily use rather than field deployment, a more compact option would serve better.

You need a top-tier SoC
The Dimensity 7025 is a mid-range chip. Competitors such as the Blackview Xplore 2 Satellite offer the more powerful Dimensity 8300 if raw performance is a priority.View Deal

Also Consider

Ulefone Armour Mini 20 Pro
A practical, 5G rugged design with an inbuilt camping light, night vision camera, but with less battery than the Oukitel WP61 Plus. This makes the phone easily pocketable and usable like a normal phone.

Read our full Ulefone Armor Mini 20 Pro review

Blackview Xplore 2 Satellite
Offers satellite communications via Skylo, the more powerful Dimensity 8300 SoC, and a 20,000mAh battery with 120W fast charging. Lacks the DMR walkie-talkie but adds genuine satellite connectivity.

Read our full Blackview Xplore 2 Satellite review View Deal

For more ruggedized devices, we've reviewed the best rugged tablets, the best rugged laptops, and the best rugged hard drives

Just how much should you change when remaking a beloved cult classic? It’s a difficult question, as any approach comes with its own drawbacks. Simply sprucing up the visuals and little else risks you winding up with a game that feels dated and simplistic, while sprinkling in new additions could improve the experience for newcomers but upset your most dedicated long-term fans.

Review info

Platform reviewed: PC
Available on: PS5, Xbox Series X|S, PC
Release date: March 12, 2026

Developer Koei Tecmo has clearly taken the latter route with its latest Fatal Frame 2: Crimson Butterfly remake, which has a mostly successful mix of the old and the new. The game was always visually impressive, with the 2003 PlayStation 2 original boasting some incredible fidelity for the time, but this latest remake takes that excellence to another level in its detailed, atmospheric environments and wonderfully stylized yet still believably realistic character models.

The trademark camera-based combat, a sticking point in most entries in the series, has been totally overhauled, too, with the addition of a new dodge mechanic that makes it easier to avoid damage and helps you remain in control in even the most intense encounters. Unfortunately, other alterations are much less successful and prevent this new rendition of one of the best survival horror games from living up to its full potential.

Hand in hand

(Image credit: Koei Tecmo Games Co., LTD.)

It all hits the fan at a record clip when twin sisters Mio and Mayu return to the mysterious forest where they used to play as children. Now set to be flooded thanks to the construction of a massive dam, it was once the site of an accident that left Mayu walking with a limp, and Mio wracked with guilt for leaving her behind. You hardly have time to get your bearings before you spot Mayu wandering off into the forest in pursuit of a magical crimson butterfly. Following your sister, you’re soon drawn into the dark world of Minakami Village - a haunted town trapped in eternal night after a sinister ritual gone awry.

Each of the nine chapters takes place entirely within its walls, with all the intricate level design that you would expect from the survival horror genre. In addition to elaborate puzzles that block your way, every location that you explore, be it the inside of the many labyrinthine houses or the village’s winding streets, is overflowing with resources to scavenge including rare prayer beads that can be spent improving your character’s stats and equipment in a modest, but impactful, upgrade menu.

The creepy ‘ghost grab’ mechanic from later entry Maiden in Black Water has also been implemented and feels like a natural inclusion. Rather than immediately adding items on the ground or inside containers to your inventory, you reach towards them slowly with a slim chance that a ghostly enemy will grab your hand and inflict some instant damage.

You can pull away to avoid it if you’re fast enough, but the mere threat of this occurring adds a fantastic level of tension to the otherwise simple action of acquiring items. It only actually happens a couple of times too, stopping the scare from feeling cheap or overused.

(Image credit: Koei Tecmo Games Co., LTD.)

The original Fatal Frame 2 was never a particularly long experience, but it was easy to set yourself back hours trying to work out exactly what you need to do in order to progress. Signposting was clearly a key concern for Koei Tecmo with this remake, and there are multiple quality-of-life changes geared towards leading you down the correct path. Whether it’s following distant sounds, spotting a spectre walking into a previously locked room, the appearance of a crimson butterfly, or simply heading to a newly marked location on the detailed world map, there was never a moment when I wasn’t sure exactly where I needed to go.

In fact, I would argue that it holds your hand a little too much at times. An example of this are the moments when you encounter the two indestructible enemies that occasionally show up and force you to flee. They pretty much only appear at one end of very linear corridors with clearly signposted hiding spots that you can use to escape, or obvious alternate routes to avoid them. I’m sure this clear design prevents frustrating game-overs, but knowing that my safety is guaranteed also removes a great deal of tension.

Duck and weave

(Image credit: Koei Tecmo Games Co., LTD.)

The changes to the combat system are a mixed bag too. I know that series fans are divided over the addition of a dodge mechanic, with plenty of posts on the Fatal Frame subreddit and horror game forums arguing that it strays too far from the established formula, but for my money, it's a very positive change. Centred around snapping pictures of ghosts through a first-person viewfinder, combat in Fatal Frame has always had a steep learning curve with enemies that can shred your health bar if you happen to stand in the wrong place.

The dodge gives you a very reliable way to get out of harm's way, making your survival more predictable and consistent. It took a while for the muscle memory that I developed with the recent Mask of the Lunar Eclipse remaster to fade, but once it did I would say this new system is a dramatic improvement and, importantly, makes this infamously obtuse franchise more approachable than ever.

Best bit

(Image credit: Koei Tecmo Games Co., LTD.)

One of Fatal Frame 2: Crimson Butterfly Remake’s new features is the ability to hold your sister’s hand while you explore together. It’s a great way of illustrating their bond and has some practical uses too, allowing you to quickly regenerate health, presumably with the power of sisterly love.

In contrast, I simply can’t understand why the developer found it necessary to add a new red form for enemy ghosts. Now, when you defeat one, there’s a pretty significant likelihood that they will transform into a red variant, regenerating all of their health and doling out much more damage. Aside from a few scripted boss fights this happening is, as far as I can tell, down to random chance, and it leads to ridiculous difficulty spikes early on. There were multiple occasions where I escaped a fight by the skin of my teeth using all of my film supplies and health consumables only to have my adversary transform without warning and kill me in a few hits.

The intended countermeasure? Seemingly just reloading your save (via the mercifully generous smattering of checkpoints or reliable autosave system) and trying again, hoping that it won’t happen the second time around. It’s a bizarre change that should have been reserved for new game plus or simply removed entirely, and, to make matters worse, a launch day patch has tried to remedy it by completely obliterating the balance of the standard difficulty mode. Red enemies are no longer a major problem, but that’s because every threat has been rendered completely trivial, and even the final boss now dies in just a few hits.

This is a huge shame and needs to be fixed, as it cheapens the otherwise incredibly impactful narrative. Exploring the sisters’ strained relationship and the horrific history of the village, it’s a beautiful journey of sacrifice and loss - provided the message isn’t being undercut by the newfound ability to blast through it like a Call of Duty campaign. You get a real sense of the pair’s relationship, elevated by the wonderful background music and stand-out performances by lead voice actors Erica Mendez and Xanthe Huynh.

Despite this I'm optimistic that better thought out future patches will be able to address most of my biggest complaints and, with three of the six endings under my belt, I’m still looking forward to going back to Minakami Village to uncover even more of its secrets.

Should I play Fatal Frame 2: Crimson Butterfly Remake?Play it if...

You’re new to Fatal Frame
The changes to the combat mechanics make this remake the most approachable Fatal Frame game to date. It’s the one to start with if you’ve been meaning to get into the series, but have been put off by its reputation.

You’re craving a beautiful survival horror game
Fatal Frame 2: Crimson Butterfly Remake looks superb, and its memorable story is elevated by strong production values, not to mention brilliant voice acting.

Don't play it if...

You’re a Fatal Frame 2 purist
If you’re a huge fan of the original game, then you might be upset with some of the changes in this remake - particularly the additional hand-holding and more approachable combat.

Accessibility features

Despite the lack of a dedicated menu, Fatal Frame 2: Crimson Butterfly Remake has a few accessibility features in its settings menu. Like other Koei Tecmo ports, keyboard support is very poor on PC, with awkward bindings and mismatched icons, so a controller is highly recommended.

There are three control types to choose from, plus the option to select which thumbstick moves your character. Controller vibration can also be disabled. Subtitles are enabled throughout the game by default, though there does not seem to be a way to change their style or appearance.

(Image credit: Koei Tecmo Games Co., LTD.)How I reviewed Fatal Frame 2: Crimson Butterfly Remake

I played close to twenty hours of Fatal Frame 2: Crimson Butterfly Remake on PC using a DualSense Wireless Controller. My machine is a 5070 Ti-powered model from retailer Scan.

It has a compact Corsair 2000d RGB Airflow case, Asus ROG Strix B860-I motherboard, Intel Core Ultra 7 265K processor, a 2TB WD Black SN770 SSD, 32GB of DDR5 Corsair Vengeance RAM, and an Asus Nvidia 5070 Ti graphics card, which all allowed me to play the game smoothly on the recommended graphics preset on my 1080p Lenovo monitor. For audio, I relied on my trusty Astro A20 X wireless gaming headset.

During my time with the game, I frequently compared my experience to my playthroughs of other entries in the Fatal Frame series, most recently Maiden of Black Water and Mask of the Lunar Eclipse, in addition to other survival horror games.

First reviewed March 2026

Garmin Forerunner 970: One minute review

I trained with the Forerunner for more than nine months - long enough to really put it through its paces. It came with me on weekly 5Ks, tempo sessions, interval workouts, long half-marathon training runs and even a sweaty 10K trail race last summer. It’s a powerful, performance-driven piece of tech, and perfect for training and analyzing your stats — even if it is one of the priciest running watches on the market right now.

In terms of core features, the 970 delivers everything you’d expect from one of the best Garmin watches. I tried the multiple running modes including track, trail and intervals - plus you’ll also find excellent GPS accuracy, VO2 max estimates, Body Battery and sleep tracking, along with detailed heart rate data.

The design, while chunkier than Garmin’s lifestyle-oriented Venu or Vivoactive lines, has a sporty look, but at 56g it’s surprisingly lightweight and comfortable for all-day wear. The bright AMOLED touchscreen, titanium bezel and scratch-resistant sapphire lens give it a premium feel.

I started wearing the watch two months before a half-marathon, and the new Running Tolerance feature helped curb my tendency to overtrain by setting a weekly maximum mileage based on my impact load and training history. Instead of ramping up too quickly and risking injury (a mistake I’ve made before), I built volume gradually and more sustainably. The projected race-time predictor and PacePro also added structure, helping me fine-tune my pacing strategies ahead of race day.

Mapping has had an upgrade, too, which was helpful during a trail run in rural Wales. While data accuracy felt strong across the board, it was particularly good during interval sessions where heart rate spikes and recovery data were spot on. Unlike some other Garmin models, I didn’t love wearing it overnight, as it felt a little chunky for sleep.

Garmin Forerunner 970: Specifications

Component

Garmin Forerunner 970

Price

 $749.99/ £629.99/ AU$1,399

Dimensions

47 x 47 x 12.9mm

Weight

56g

Case/bezel

Fiber-reinforced polymer / Titanium

Display

AMOLED, 454 x 454px

GPS

GPS, GLONASS, Galileo, SatIQ

Battery life

Up to 15 days (smartwatch), up to 26 hours (GPS)

Connection

Bluetooth, ANT+

Water resistant

10ATM

Garmin Forerunner 970: Price and availability

(Image credit: Future / Sarah Finley)

• Price: From £629.99 / $749.99 / AU$1,399
• Colors: Multiple colourways and can be customized

The Garmin Forerunner 970 launched in May 2025 and is available directly from Garmin as well as most major retailers. It’s an upgrade from the Forerunner 965, which came out in March 2023, and the 970 is priced at around $100 / £100 AU$200 more than its predecessor. There's no denying these watches are getting expensive.

However, with the running feature upgrades, design tweaks and slightly improved battery life, the 970 is definitely value for money.

• Value score: 5 / 5

Garmin Forerunner 970: Design

• Chunky sporty design
• Lightweight
• Scratch-resistant glass

I’ve definitely gravitated towards Garmin’s more lifestyle-leaning watches in the past, such as the Venu and Vivoactive ranges. They’re slimmer, more streamlined, and I can wear them in the gym, but also out in the evening.

So when I first strapped on the 970, I immediately noticed the difference. The watch face is thicker, and it does give more ‘serious runner’ vibes, rather than ‘I’m just counting my steps’. It felt slightly chunky at first, but it’s actually surprisingly light - at 56g, it never felt too heavy.

Looks-wise, it’s actually really smart. I tried the soft gold titanium with a French grey/translucent indigo band, which strikes a nice balance between sporty and stylish, but there are other colourways - and you can customize it if you want something more sporty or bolder.

Bright and crisp, with an AMOLED touchscreen set into a 1.4-inch sapphire lens and a titanium bezel - an upgrade from the Garmin Forerunner 965, which used Corning Gorilla Glass 3 DX. My only bugbear was lagging time; sometimes it took a while to catch up with my scrolling.

I’ve scratched previous smartwatches before (usually mid-gym session, clanking dumbbells around), so I was relieved that this watch was scratch-resistant. Nine months in, after plenty of sweaty runs and weight sessions, it still looks box-fresh.

• Design score: 4/5

Garmin Forerunner 970: Features

(Image credit: Future / Sarah Finley)

• Evening report added
• Slightly longer battery life
• Triathlon coaching

The watch comes loaded with all the features you’d expect from a Garmin Forerunner. There’s a huge library of workouts to track, including up to eight different running modes, alongside cycling, swimming and strength sessions. As ever with Garmin, the GPS is impressively accurate, even in built-up areas, and the health metrics are comprehensive: sleep tracking, step count, Body Battery, VO2 max and detailed heart rate data are all easy to access and analyze in the app.

There are a few upgrades, too. There’s now a built-in LED flashlight, which I found useful on winter runs, plus a speaker and microphone so you can take calls directly from your wrist. I wasn’t completely impressed by this, though, as the volume was very low when I did use it for calls.

One new feature I particularly liked was the new Evening Report. When reviewing the Garmin Vivoactive 6 last year, I’d found the Morning Reports really useful, so I hoped for the same effect. After long runs, it gave me a really insightful, helpful summary of my day’s exertion and prompted me to start winding down at the right time, with tailored recommendations for the following day’s training. For anyone balancing structured training with a busy schedule, I found it to be a really good addition.

New running features include tracking your running economy, which is the efficiency of your run and your step speed loss; however, these both require you to also be wearing Garmin's HRM 600. I’m not a triathlete, but those who are will appreciate the new Triathlon Coach feature. It allows you to build a full training plan across swim, bike and run – helping to keep you accountable and on track in the lead-up to race day.

Battery life is also slightly improved compared to its predecessor. During comparison testing, the Garmin Forerunner 965 lasted around two hours less than the 970 when in GPS mode. That said, during particularly heavy training weeks, I found myself charging it more frequently than Garmin suggests.

• Features score: 4.5 / 5

Performance Garmin Forerunner 970: Performance

(Image credit: Future / Sarah Finley)

• More detailed, colorful maps on the watch
• Running Tolerance feature helped me to avoid injury
• App was detailed, but glitchy when pairing the watch

I trained with the Forerunner for more than nine months – long enough to really put it through its paces.

During half-marathon training, the new Running Tolerance feature changed how I approached my mileage. I’m someone who tends to get a bit overexcited, ramp things up too quickly and end up injured. This time, the 970 analysed my impact load and training history and gave me a weekly maximum mileage to stick to. Having that ceiling forced me to build gradually. It took the guesswork (and ego) out of the equation, and I could actually see how respecting those limits kept my training more consistent week to week.

The mapping upgrades also came into their own on a trail run in the depths of the Welsh countryside. The clearer, more detailed route maps meant I could see exactly what elevation was coming up and stay confident I was on track. Even though I was racing alongside others, there’s something reassuring about knowing that if your phone dies, you’re not stranded in the middle of nowhere, hoping you’ve taken the right turn.

I didn’t rely on the Garmin Connect app as much as I have with other smartwatches, mainly because so much data is accessible directly on the watch itself. When I did use the app, the data was comprehensive and clearly presented, although I’ll admit it took me a few attempts to pair my Forerunner with the app. The Garmin Connect app also comes in handy to implement Gear Tracking and build training plans, which you can then export to the watch.

If you like to train with targets, it’s easy to set pace or time goals before you head out, and PacePro is straightforward to configure. I also found the new projected race time predictor quite motivating - it gave me realistic target times and pacing guidance based on my training, which helped shape my weekly park runs – and achieve some PBs.

Unlike other Garmin watches I’ve worn, I didn’t sleep in this one. I found it a bit too chunky overnight, so I stuck with my Whoop for sleep tracking – as it has that barely-there feel I prefer at night.

• Performance score: 4.5 / 5

Garmin Forerunner 970: Scorecard

Category

Comment

Score

Value

High price, but the value proposition is good.

5 / 5

Design

Chunky and durable, looks good – but not a dress watch.

4 / 5

Features

Stuffed with fitness credentials.

4.5 / 5

Performance

After nine months, this watch earned its stripes.

4.5 / 5

Garmin Forerunner 970: Should I buy?Buy it if…

You’re training for a running race or triathlon
Want detailed stats or guidance during your training block? This is the watch to get.

You want more recovery knowledge
Know how you’re training and when you should be resting, so you don’t get injured.

You want to leave your phone at home
Download music and rely on the watch's maps.

Don’t buy it if..

You want a lightweight watch to track your sleep goals
Haters of chunky watches are better off looking at the Venu and Vivoactive lines.

You're on a budget
This running watch comes at a hefty price.

Also consider

Garmin Venu 4

Our best Garmin for most people.

Read our full Garmin Venu 4 review

Coros Pace 4

At half the price of the Garmin Forerunner, you’ll appreciate the virtual pacer and its 1.2-inch AMOLED display.

Read our full Coros Pace 4 review

You're on a budget
This running watch comes at a hefty price.

How I tested

I tested the watch over nine months, wearing it for my weekly 5K runs, as well as my weekly longer run and some interval training. I also tested it on the trails and used it for half-marathon training, as well as on race day itself. I compared the running features, app and data against other Garmin watches and running smartwatches.

Sony PS-LX5BT: Two-minute review

The idea of a turntable that connects wirelessly via Bluetooth is not a new one — Sony itself has had a lot of success with products like this.

Its latest wireless record player, this PS-LX5BT, is exhaustively specified and priced aggressively — which, it would seem, is the very least that’s required to succeed in this area of the market. Sony obviously knows what’s required, though. The PS-LX5BT features Bluetooth transmission via the aptX Adaptive codec, so if your receiver is similarly specified then lossy 48kHz wireless streams are available.

The company has fitted a defeatable phono stage, too, so the turntable can hard-wire in to pretty much any system you care to mention — and if you’re using its phono stage, there are a trio of gain settings available. It’s pre-fitted and pre-adjusted a moving magnet cartridge. And then Sony's made the whole thing automatic where playback is concerned.

In practice, it all works splendidly. The PS-LX5BT is a flyweight (just 3.6kg with its dust cover in place), which doesn’t bode especially well, but as well as a stable wireless connection, the Sony delivers robust, energetic and thoroughly entertaining sound. It manages to do so without losing sight of detail or flattening dynamics either, and it has a proper facility with rhythmic expression.

It’s not the most robust at the top of the frequency range, and is slightly-but-noticeably tilted towards the low end when it comes to frequency response, but on the whole it’s reasonably well balanced and most certainly gives a good account of itself where low-frequency control and variation in particular are concerned. Which means the PS-LX5BT picks up where the PS-LX310BT left off — as one of the very best pound-for-pound turntables around with Bluetooth to boot.

(Image credit: Future / Simon Lucas)Sony PS-LX5BT review: Price & release date

• Unveiled January 22, 2026
• Priced $499 / £399 / AU$599

The Sony PS-LX5BT is on sale now, and in the United Kingdom it costs £399. In the United States it’s priced at $499, and in Australia it sells for AU$599.

And not only will the PS-LX5BT have to justify that premium fee over its more affordable (but equally new) PS-LX3BT sibling, it will also have to see off the challenge from brands like Audio Technica and TEAC (to name just a couple) too.

To clarify, the excellent older Sony PS-LX310BT regularly sells for $199 / £179 / AU$395 and while Sony has listed various gains over that 2019 model in this more expensive deck (of the two new models listed), cash-strapped vinyl fans might question how much better it can possibly be, to warrant the extra spend. So let's see, shall we…

(Image credit: Future / Simon Lucas)Sony PS-LX5BT review: Features

• Bluetooth wireless connectivity with aptX Adaptive compatibility
• Integrated phono stage with three-stage gain control
• Pre-fitted, pre-adjusted moving magnet cartridge

There’s just no arguing with the way Sony has specified the PS-LX5BT. By prevailing turntable standards, it’s about as thoroughly tricked out as these things ever get.

For instance, you get plenty of connectivity options. There are stereo RCA connections at the rear of the plinth for connecting the player to an amplifier — and next to them there’s a switch to turn the integrated phono stage on or off.

So as well as an amplifier with or without a phono stage of its own, the Sony can also connect to a powered speaker or what-have-you — anything at all, in fact, that has a line-level analogue input. The appearance of a three-stage gain control means you’ll always get a decent level of volume when connected with the player’s phono stage switched on. Or you may prefer to connect wirelessly using the PS-LX5BT’s abilities as a Bluetooth transmitter — it’s compatible with SBC, aptX and aptX Adaptive codecs, so as long as the receiver is also compatible it’s possible to stream wirelessly at a lossy 48kHz resolution.

This is a belt-drive design that can operate at either 33.3 or 45rpm, and its straight aluminium tonearm is pre-fitted with an unbranded moving magnet cartridge. It’s also pre-adjusted, although while Sony suggests it has been calibrated to provide a tracking weight of 2.0g (+/- 0.5g) my review sample tracks at a hefty-but-not-fatal 3.13g. Sony is adamant that my sample is an outlier in this respect, and is very keen to get its hands back on it to find out what’s going on — but given that there’s no counterweight for the end user to adjust, you very much get what you’re given in this respect.

• Features score: 5 / 5

(Image credit: Future / Simon Lucas)Sony PS-LX5BT review: Sound quality

• Energy and drive to spare
• Great facility with rhythmic and dynamic expression
• Slightly tilted where tonality and frequency response are concerned

It’s nice to be able to report that the Sony PS-LX5BT doesn’t alter its fundamental sonic characteristics no matter if you’re connecting wirelessly or using its integrated phono stage. In either circumstance, this turntable is a vibrant, energetic and determinedly front-foot listen, one that puts ‘entertainment’ at the centre of everything it does.

Streaming a copy of Fusa Riot by Bobby Hughes Experience via aptX Adaptive-enabled Bluetooth, the vigorous and attacking nature of the Sony’s sound is obvious. Its low-frequency response is, ultimately, slightly overstated — but it’s neither musclebound nor unsubtle at the bottom of the frequency range. Bass sounds are nicely shaped, carefully controlled (so rhythmic expression is very decent) and carry plenty of detail regarding texture and timbre — so there’s plenty of variation to go along with the overt punch.

The transition into the midrange is smooth, and here too there’s plenty of information available — you’ll never be in any doubt as to what motivates a voice, nor be unaware of its character or technique. As with the lower frequencies, the tonal balance is quite carefully natural neutral, and it makes for a convincing listen.At the top end, the Sony changes its tune just a little. There’s a slight lack of substance to treble sounds, a mild skinniness that can make the top of the frequency range sound just fractionally splashy. There’s still plenty of detail and variation made apparent, you understand — it just lacks some of the robustness the PS-LX5BT is so capable of generating elsewhere.

Soundstaging is confidently approached, and the Sony creates quite a large and well-laid-out stage that has plenty of space on it even if a recording is notably complex or involved. It also has a very respectable amount of dynamic headroom available, so if a recording really kicks off the turntable is able to make the upshift in intensity readily apparent.

Switch to the Sony’s integrated phono stage, and with the gain control in the ‘mid’ position the wired sound of the PS-LX5BT is closely related to the wireless equivalent. If anything, the lack of substance at the top of the frequency range is even more pronounced, and the low frequencies gain a little extra confidence (like they needed any) — but on the most basic levels the Sony doesn’t shift its characteristics in the slightest. Which can really only be a good thing.

• Sound quality score: 4.5 / 5

(Image credit: Future / Simon Lucas)Sony PS-LX5BT review: Design

• 117 x 430 x 366mm (HxWxD)
• Diecast aluminium platter
• Supplied with a clear Perspex dust cover

For a turntable with a weighty specification, the Sony PS-LX5BT doesn’t weigh very much. With its clear Perspex dust cover fitted and diecast aluminium platter in place, it tips the scales at just 3.6kg — which, if you’re the one who lifts it from its packaging and positions it on its shelf, doesn’t inspire a huge amount of confidence. Especially where the rejection of resonance caused by its own operation is concerned.

Still, there’s no arguing with the standard of construction or finish here. It may be priced aggressively, but there have been no corners cut when it comes to the way Sony has put the PS-LX5BT together.

• Design score: 4 / 5

(Image credit: Future / Simon Lucas)Sony PS-LX5BT review: Usability & setup

• Fully automatic operation
• Swift and stable wireless pairing
• Will play 7in or 12in discs at 33.3 or 45rpm

There’s really very little to it. If you want to connect wirelessly, press the ‘pairing’ button on the plinth — the Sony locates and connects to your waiting Bluetooth receiver quickly.

If you prefer a hard connection to your amp, speaker or what-have-you, plug in the supplied RCA cables and select output at either ‘line’ or ‘phono’ level — if it’s the latter, you’ll be able to decide which of the three gain settings is most appropriate as soon as you hear the turntable in action.

After that it’s just a question of using the dials on the plinth to tell the PS-LX5BT if you want to play a 7in or a 12in disc, and if it should turn at 33.3 or 45rpm. Some automatic turntables are dogmatic inasmuch as they insist ‘33.3rpm = 12in disc’ and ‘45rpm = 7in disc’, but the Sony has heard of 12-in singles and will happily play them without any intervention on your part. Then press ‘start’ and away you go — when it reaches the end of the side the PS-LX5BT will automatically return the tonearm to its rest and stop the platter turning, but there’s a ‘stop’ button if you want to take charge. A button marked ‘up/down’ lets you lift or lower the tonearm without causing the platter to stop turning.

• Usability & setup score: 5 / 5

(Image credit: Future / Simon Lucas)Sony PS-LX5BT review: Value

• Doesn't feel physically weighty enough to deliver huge value
• …but put that out of your mind, let the music play and there's plenty

No, it doesn’t feel like the weightiest or most robust record player this sort of money will buy you — but in every other respect the Sony PS-LX5BT represents prodigious value for money.

Not only does it have a stack of features, but each and every one of them is beautifully realised and effective — and on top of that it has an energetic and upfront sound that doesn’t forgo detail or subtlety while it’s entertaining you.

• Value score: 4.5 / 5

(Image credit: Future / Simon Lucas)Should I buy the Sony PS-LX5BT?Sony PS-LX5BT scorecard

Attribute

Notes

Score

Features

There's no arguing with Sony's specifications here

5 / 5

Sound quality

Energy, rhythmic drive and entertainment to spare, only ever-so-marginally (and occasionally) marred by a tendency towards over-egging the bass

4.5 / 5

Design

Doesn't feel as robust as pricier players, but it's all here

4 / 5

Setup & usability

There's really very little to it — a top choice for those new to vinyl

5 / 5

Value

It ain't heavy, but it's still great value

4.5 / 5

Buy it if…

The idea of wireless connectivity for your vinyl appeals
And not any old wireless connectivity, either — aptX Adaptive, for a lossy 48kHz stream

You aren’t always ready to spring out of your seat
The turntable will take care of taking the stylus off the record when it’s finished - you relax yourself

You appreciate a vigorous and driving account of your music
‘Upfront’ is as good a word as any to describe the Sony’s fundamental sonic character

Don’t buy it if…

You’re after ultimate sonic fidelity
It’s difficult to come by for £399, to be honest — but you can get closer than this if you’re prepared to sacrifice most of the Sony’s functionality

You equate weight with quality
To be fair, there are solid acoustic reasons why a turntable should, ideally, be heavier than this

You’re not especially houseproud
The Sony has a clear Perpsex dust cover — and you’d be amazed at how much dust it keeps off your deck

Sony PS-LX5BT review: Also consider

TechRadar is a big fan of the Audio-Technica AT-LP70XBT — it’s a bit of a bargain when you consider its specification and the plus-points of its sonic performance.

The PS-LX5BT has put its shortcomings into quite sharp relief, though, even if it is a fair chunk more expensive.

Spend a little more money though and the just-add-speakers Pro-Ject Juke Box E1 can be yours — it’s slightly different to the Sony in its approach, and it’s slightly different where its sound-quality priorities are concerned, too. But it could be just the ticket…

How I tested the Sony PS-LX5BT

I connected the PS-LX5BT to an Eversolo DAC-Z10 pre-amp using its aptX Adaptive Bluetooth functionality, and also using its integrated pre-amp via the RCA cables Sony supplies. This allowed me to check the speed, solidity and effectiveness of the wireless connection, as well as the quality of the phono stage and the usefulness of its three-stage gain control.

The preamp was connected to a Cambridge Edge W power amp using QED XLR cables, and the power amp was connected to a pair of Bowers & Wilkins 705 Signature loudspeakers, using QED speaker cable.

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• First reviewed: March 2026

Mild spoilers follow for Invincible season 4 episodes 1 to 6.

Few Amazon TV Originals can claim to be as consistently excellent from season to season as Invincible.

Indeed, few shows can match the level of acclaim it's received since it first season, which holds a 98% approval rating on review aggregation website Rotten Tomatoes (RT), arrived in March 2021. Seasons 2 and 3's critically perfect ratings of 100% further prove the high level at which it continually operates compared to its Prime Video peers, too.

As the saying goes, though, the bigger they are, the harder they fall. Thankfully, Invincible season 4 delays any potential fall from grace for another year, with the series' latest chapter arguably its most intense and epic installment so far.

Hello darkness, my new friend

Mark is in full-on survival mode after last season's finale (Image credit: Prime Video)

Picking up almost immediately after the Invincible season 3 finale, the popular show's latest entry reunites us with the eponymous hero — aka Mark Grayson (Steven Yeun) — as he struggles to deal with the fallout of the Invincible War and his death-defying duel with Conquest (Jeffrey Dean Morgan).

Given the personality-altering impact that the aforementioned near-deadly exchange has had on Mark, it's not surprising that season 4 marks yet another tonal shift for the series. Tangible from the get-go with its premiere's gloomy cold open, Invincible 4 cuts a more pessimistic figure than prior installments as it sets out its stall to be the program's darkest entry so far.

Invincible 4 cuts a more pessimistic figure than prior installments

That's not to say previous chapters weren't melancholic in their makeup but, off the back of last season's ending, Invincible's latest eight-part installment dials up the somberness and moral ambiguity to 11 — themes perfectly personified by a heavy-hearted and oft-times self-destructive Mark.

As a connoisseur of multifaceted heroes, I devilishly reveled in seeing Mark wrestle with his newly-established worldview — that being, permanently erase anyone who threatens him or his family — and the idealistic superhuman he still identifies as at his core.

Dinoasaurus (right) is one of many new villains we see this season (Image credit: Prime Video)

Whether it's the telling shift in the dynamic between our progressively cynical protagonist and his now-teen half-brother Oliver (Christian Convery), the increasingly negative public perception of him following the Invincible War, and death-dealing and near-lethal actions he takes in season 4's opening half, even as a superfan of the show's comic book namesake, I was fascinated and struck by Mark's slow unraveling.

Even as a superfan of the comics, I was fascinated and struck by Mark's slow unraveling

Here's an individual who's spent the last two seasons trying to evade the suggestion that, as the son of Nolan Grayson/Omni-Man (J.K. Simmons) — more on him later — he'll eventually become as bloodthirsty and uncompromising as his dad. Seeing that play out in real time is easily one of season 4's earliest highlights.

Mark and Eve's relationship keeps the former grounded and sane (Image credit: Prime Video)

As in past seasons, the only thing anchoring Mark amid the internal chaos raging within him — mother Debbie (Sandra Oh) and half-brother Oliver notwithstanding — is his girlfriend and fellow superhuman Eve Wilkins/Atom Eve (Gillian Jacobs).

Even here, though, the pair's now-established romance isn't immune to turbulence. Indeed, the malfunctioning of Eve's molecular transmutation abilities — and the resultant root cause — provides the requisite melodrama we've come to expect from their dynamic, which is as fertile as ever.

Episode 4 introduces a brand-new subplot for Invincible fans to lap up (Image credit: Prime Video)

It's demon detective/immortal warrior Damien Darkblood (Clancy Brown), rather than Eve, who empowers Mark to snap out of his self-imposed funk, though.

Indeed, this season's fourth episode — one centered on a side story not present in the comics — sees Mark literally dragged to Hell to help Darkblood and the latter's allies tackle the seemingly unkillable Volcanikka (Indira Varma) and her goons. It's an intriguing and funny, albeit occasionally banal, chapter that allows Invincible co-creator Robert Kirkman realize his vision for a subplot he couldn't work into the show's literary namesake, and I enjoyed seeing more of Darkblood and the contemplative nature of this episode's tale.

Sins of the father

"We need to talk again, Mark..." (Image credit: Prime Video)

Mark's circumstances aren't aided by the reappearance of Nolan Grayson/Omni-Man (J.K. Simmons) who, alongside the ever-likeable Allen (Seth Rogen), who return to Earth to recruit the titular hero for the Coalition of Planets' forthcoming war against the Viltrum Empire.

The increased screen time afforded to Invincible's fan-favorite bromance... is much needed

The increased screen time afforded to Invincible's fan-favorite bromance after their bit-part roles in seasons 2 and 3 is not only much needed, but also long overdue.

Sure, given how the story plays out in the source material, it was inevitable that we'd see more of Nolan and Allen as they embark on a quest to seek out new allies to join the fight. Nonetheless, it's pleasing to see their roles expanded, with this season's second episode — a near-full detour from the primary plot to focus on said ally-locating mission — serving as proof.

Nolan and Allen have much more to do in season 4 (Image credit: Prime Video)

Even as someone who's read the comics and knew we'd spend more time with them, I was delighted all the same. Nolan and Allen's partnership is one of the series' best selling points, and its humor- and action-filled second chapter is a welcome distraction from the lugubrious nature of the Mark-centric storyline.

Nolan and Allen's partnership is one of the series' best selling points

That's not to say it's a total joke fest with these two. Allen deals with the occasional emotionally devastating incident, while Nolan's redemption arc continues apace as Mark's remorseful dad attempts to reconcile with the loved ones that he wronged.

Families, amirite? (Image credit: Prime Video)

Indeed, one of this season's most incredibly moving scenes — and, in my opinion, one of Invincible's most well-acted sequences to date — sees Nolan try and fail to make peace with Debbie. Their first encounter since season 1, it's an intensely painful scene to watch play out and, thanks to Oh and Simmons' vocal performances, is far more impactful than its literary counterpart.

Nolan experiences similarly strained relationships with his sons, especially Oliver, whose trademark teen traits and abandonment issues imbue their father-son dynamic with understandable angst. However, events that occur in the final throes of episode 5, as well as the bulk of its follow-up chapter, provide hope that this estrangement won't be a permanent and thematically hackneyed fixture moving forward.

The empire strikes back

Season 4 finally introduces Invincible's primary villain in the form of Thragg (Image credit: Prime Video)

The Coalition of Planets needs synergy, too, because of the universal threat posed by the Viltrum Empire.

After three seasons of slowly pulling back the veil on this extraordinarily powerful race, Invincible's latest arc once again highlights their uncompromising and barbaric culture. By way of an extensive flashback sequence in episode 2, we also learn the full truth behind their desire to rule all, and the near-extinction-level event that may briefly strike a compassionate chord with some viewers.

Invincible's latest arc once again highlights the Viltrum Empire's uncompromising and barbaric culture

And I say "briefly" because of what comes next. Led by the Prime Video series' Big Bad in Grand Regent Thragg, who's played with real menace and villainous stoicism by Lee Pace, the Viltrum Empire is, despite its vulnerable state, still a force to be reckoned with. That much is clear when, like a cornered and wounded animal, it hits back — and hard — at the Coalition of Planets in one of Invincible's now-customary intense, frenetic, and catastrophic action set pieces.

Tech Jacket made their animated debut via a brief cameo in season 3 episode 7 (Image credit: Prime Video)

Away from its primary narrative, Invincible also continues to maintain a highly satisfying balance between the old and the new.

The introduction of ominous new villains including Universa (Danai Gurira), Dinoasaurus (Matthew Rhys), and Volcanikka spice things up in the rogues gallery department, and ensure that the raft of recurring villains never fall into the overused category. Meanwhile, fresh heroes in legendary cosmic nomad Space Racer and the idealistic Tech Jacket — I won't ruin who voices these characters because, well, spoilers — add some welcome humor, theatrics, and suspense to the equation.

Universa (left) is another of this season's secondary antagonists (Image credit: Prime Video)

I did have a couple of gripes with Invincible season 4. For one, some entries feel a little long for the section of the main story and the subplots they cover. I oftentimes beat the drum for episodes to have more substantial runtimes but, in this instance, I think a few minutes could have been shaved off one or two of its chapters.

Taking some key players off the board and relegating others to the sidelines was also a tad irksome. Okay, the removal of some characters from the playing field, plus the downgraded screen time afforded to others, is dictated by the narrative Invincible season 4 tells.

I'm a proponent of adapting any form of literature as accurately as possible but, for a show that's done a stellar job of expanding on its source material, and updating outdated aspects of the graphic novel's plot and characters, I could've lived with the odd change here or there.

My verdict

Its last two episodes notwithstanding, Invincible continues to prove it's the best R-rated animated show around with its most emotionally heightened and ferocious season yet. The way its story evolves, and the curveballs it throws, and which will shock fans of the show and comic books, make it second to none in the genre space.

If the final pair of episodes are as strong as its other six, season 4 will further cement its position as top dog. And, should it draw to a close in the way I think it will, the already-announced Invincible season 5 will have a huge job on its hands to similarly surpass its forebears — but I have every confidence that it will.

Invincible season 4 launches with a three-episode premiere on Wednesday, March 18. New chapters air weekly until the finale on April 22. For more ahead of its arrival, find out everything we know so far about Invincible season 4.