TechRadar Reviews

Insta360 X6: two-minute review

10 years after Insta360 launched its first 360 camera, the X6 arrives as the anniversary flagship — and it arrives in a much, much busier 360 camera market. This time, Insta360 is defending its home turf against a resurgent GoPro Max 2 and a highly capable debut from DJI in the Osmo 360. There's a feeling, then, that the X6 has to be something more than just an annual refresh.

For the most part, it delivers. The squat body houses a pair of larger 1/1.1-inch sensors, and while I wouldn't call the resulting jump in image quality dramatic when set directly against the X5's footage, its effect on where the X6 sits against the wider field is significant.

The GoPro Max 2 has owned daylight sharpness in this category since launch, and the Insta360 X5 has owned the night. The X6 is the first small 360 camera I've tested that doesn't ask you to pick one or the other — it's excellent in both conditions, which makes it, in my view, the best-performing 360 camera you can currently buy.

(Image credit: Future | Sam Kieldsen)

It's a similar story with durability. Waterproof to 20m without a case and 60m with one, the X6 comfortably out-swims both the Osmo 360 and the Max 2, and its lenses remain just as easy (and now cheaper) to replace if you scratch one . Battery life is another strong point: Insta360's 140-minute claim at 8K/30fps held up closely in my testing, with zero overheating during continuous filming.

Where things get messier is the software. The X6 introduces some exciting additions for serious creators, like 10-bit color across every shooting mode including low light, native Dolby Vision, and forthcoming native DaVinci Resolve support, but the mobile app I tested struggled badly, crashing repeatedly during editing and export. I'm hoping the launch app is a lot more robust. The desktop app fared much better, but lacks the AI auto-editing tools that make the mobile experience so appealing on paper.

All of this comes at a premium price, too: the X6 is comfortably the most expensive small 360 camera around. Whether that premium is worth paying will come down to how much you value best-in-class image quality and hardware.

I've also directly compared the Insta360 X6 and Insta360 X5 in real video recording scenarios — check out my early verdict.

Insta360 X6 specsInsta360 X6 specs

Type:

360 camera

Sensor:

1.1-inch x 2

Focal length:

7.78mm (35mm equivalent)

Max aperture:

f/2.0

Max video resolution:

8K / 50fps

Max photo resolution:

120MP

Storage:

47GB internal + microSD card slot

Screen:

2.32-inch OLED

Connectivity:

USB-C 3.0, Bluetooth 5.3, Wi-Fi 6

Dimensions:

2 x 3.9 x 1.6 inches / 50 x 100 x 40mm

Weight:

6.9oz / 196g

Insta360 X6: Price and availability

• Launched worldwide on August 12, 2026
• Standard bundle costs $699.99 / £619 / AU$1,049.99
• Essentials Bundle is $799.99 / £709 / AU$1,159.99

The Insta360 X6 launched on August 12, 2026, priced from $699.99 / £619 / AU$1,049.99 for the Standard bundle. This gets you the camera itself, a USB-C cable, a protective pouch, a lens cloth and a quick-start guide, but nothing else.

Also available is the Essentials Bundle, priced at $799.99 / £709 / AU$1,159.99. This adds a second Xtreme battery, a 114cm invisible selfie stick, a rubber lens cap, a fast-charge case and an extended warranty, and it might be a sensible starting point if you think you'll use those accessories.

It's quite a price jump over where the X5 launched ($549.99 / £519.99 / AU$929.99 for its own Standard bundle), and it also puts real distance between the X6 and rivals like the DJI Osmo 360 (priced from £409.99 / AU$759 at launch) and GoPro Max 2 ($499.99 / £449.99 / AU$849.95). The X6 is the priciest small 360 camera on the market.

One thing worth budgeting for regardless of which bundle you choose: while the X6 has 47GB of usable built-in storage, 8K footage eats through that fast (more on this in the Design section), so factor in a high-capacity microSD card if you don't already have a spare lying around.

• Price score: 3.5/5

Insta360 X6: Design

• IP68-rated and waterproof to 20m (60m with optional dive case)
• Replaceable lenses claimed to be 5x more scratch-resistant than X5's
• 2.32-inch OLED touchscreen with always-on support

The X6 weighs 6.9oz / 196g, and is noticeably squatter and squarer than its X4 and X5 predecessors, a change I'd put down to the need to accommodate the larger 1/1.1-inch sensors inside. That extra width also allows room for a bigger screen: a 2.32-inch OLED display that supports an always-on mode, a step up from the screens on the last couple of Insta360 X cameras.

That screen also introduces a pressure-sensitive, haptic touch interface, requiring a firmer press to access certain options. It's a clever party trick, but in practice I didn't find it added much to the experience — it feels more like a gimmick for now than a true usability upgrade.

For mounting purposes, you get the same setup as the X5: a standard 1/4-inch tripod thread and Insta360's proprietary magnetic clip mount on the bottom. Between these and adapters for GoPro-style mounting fingers, you can securely bolt the X6 to pretty much anything. During testing, I used the supplied selfie stick for on-foot and cycling footage, and also tested the SmallRig Vehicle Suction Cup Support Kit for car-mounted shots, both of which worked brilliantly.

Future | Sam KieldsenFuture | Sam KieldsenFuture | Sam KieldsenFuture | Sam KieldsenFuture | Sam Kieldsen

On the durability front, the X6 is IP68-rated and waterproof to 20m without any additional housing, rising to 60m with Insta360's official dive case (which costs a whopping $179.99 / £158.99 / AU$269.99). This comfortably outclasses the competition: the DJI Osmo 360 tops out at 10m (and DJI itself discourages underwater use, citing stitching issues), while the GoPro Max 2 manages just 5m. If unhoused underwater shooting matters to you, the X6 is the clear class leader.

Insta360 says the X6's lenses are five times more scratch-resistant than the X5's, and cheaper to replace, too. I didn't manage to scratch mine during testing — which speaks well of that durability claim — so I didn't get to experience the swap process, but the X6 offers the same easy-replacement design as the X5, with the replacement kit including all the tools you need to quickly remove the old lens, clean up any debris and attach a new one.

Alongside the usual microSD card slot, the X6 packs 47GB of usable built-in storage — enough for around 50 minutes of 8K/30fps footage, and a useful safety net if you forget a card or fill one up mid-session. Getting footage off the camera is quick, too: Wi-Fi 6.0 supports wireless transfers of up to 100MB/s, while wired USB 3.0 hits 450MB/s. Both speeds are worth having, because as I found out during testing, the X6's video files get enormous very quickly (more on that in the Performance section).

• Design score: 5/5

Insta360 X6: Performance

• Insta360 claims 140 minutes of 8K/30fps recording; I got 136 minutes in testing
• On-device AI Director auto-edits your day's footage overnight
• The mobile app was prone to crashing during testing, especially on older phones

The X6's 2600mAh Xtreme battery is rated for 140 minutes of continuous 8K/30fps recording, a claimed 51% improvement over the X5. I put that figure to the test, and got 136 minutes before the battery gave out, so Insta360's number holds up well in practice. I also didn't experience any overheating during that stretch, which is impressive given that I was testing through an unusually hot UK summer. Charging is fast, too: Insta360 claims 0 to 80% in 24 minutes with a fast charger, and I found those figures accurate.

Insta360 positions the X6 as "three cameras in one": a 360 camera, a single-lens action cam, and a subject-tracking gimbal-style vlogging camera. In practice, I gravitated almost entirely toward the 360 mode. The X6's size and shape make it a bit unwieldy for hardcore action-camera use compared to something like a GoPro Hero or Insta360's own Ace Pro 2, so I'd treat that mode as a useful fallback rather than a primary draw. The vlogging mode fares better: InstaFrame 2.0 does a genuinely good job of replicating a gimbal-mounted vlogging camera, keeping a chosen subject framed, horizon-levelled and stabilized regardless of how the X6 itself is positioned. You select your subject with a simple double-tap on the screen.

The Insta360 X6 flanked by its main competitors, the DJI Osmo 360 and GoPro Max 2. (Image credit: Future | Sam Kieldsen)

On the color and post-production side, the X6 supports the 10-bit I-Log flat profile, and — significantly for demanding creators — that 10-bit depth now carries across every shooting mode, including the PureVideo low-light mode, which wasn't the case on the X5. It's also the first 360 camera with native in-camera Dolby Vision. Perhaps the biggest software win here is native DaVinci Resolve compatibility, a first for a 360 camera — though this requires Resolve 22, which wasn't available at the time of testing, so I wasn't able to try it pre-launch. As a Resolve user myself, I'll be checking this out as soon as it lands.

The headline software feature is AI Director, an on-device auto-editing system clearly designed around a simple pitch: shoot footage throughout the day, plug the X6 in to charge overnight, and wake up to a finished (but still adjustable) vlog ready to watch in the app.

Unfortunately, my experience with the Insta360 app itself was rocky. I tested beta versions on both an iPhone 13 and a OnePlus Pad Android tablet, and on the iPhone the app struggled badly, crashing repeatedly during anything demanding — including simply exporting an edited video. This isn't a new problem in my experience reviewing Insta360 cameras, but it was pronounced here; Insta360's own reviewer notes suggest an iPhone 15 is the oldest model considered capable of running the app properly, which is a tough ask given that not everyone upgrades their phone every couple of years.

The Insta360 X6 next to its predecessor, the 2025-launched X5. (Image credit: Future | Sam Kieldsen)

The app fared somewhat better on the OnePlus Pad, letting me test AI-assisted editing of individual clips, though longer clips took a while to process. Results were generally solid, if not something I'd say beats a hand-edited video. I wasn't able to test the app's other AI editing trick — stitching together multiple shorter clips automatically, complete with transitions and music — on either device: it crashed the iPhone app outright, and simply refused to let me add clips to the editor on Android.

One other app frustration: there's no way to switch between color profiles remotely. If you want to shoot in I-Log or Dolby Vision rather than the standard profile, you have to make that change on the camera itself, which is annoying if, say, the X6 is mounted on a pole on top of your car, as it was during part of my testing.

The desktop Insta360 Studio app, run on my M2 MacBook Air, offered a much more stable experience, though it lacks the AI auto-editing tools found on mobile. What it does offer is more precise manual editing on a larger screen, which I personally find easier to work with regardless of stability. I was able to trim, reframe and export finished clips directly from the X6 to my SSD without needing to move the original files off the camera first, which was a lifesaver given the next issue.

That issue is file size: 8K/30fps footage eats through roughly 1GB of storage per minute, so the X6's 47GB of built-in storage fills up fast, and I ran into storage problems fitting longer clips onto both my phone and my laptop. Factoring in the mobile app's instability — which I do expect to be much improved after launch — I found it far easier to manage and trim footage using the desktop app instead.

Audio is handled by a new 360-degree windproof mic array that "actively filters" wind noise, plus a dedicated hidden mic built specifically for motorcycle riders, designed to cut wind further and clarify engine sound — a niche inclusion, but I suppose a welcome one if it applies to you.

I tested the built-in wind filter, and it works, up to a point: noise was noticeably reduced compared with other modes, but not eliminated. For that, I'd recommend pairing the X6 with Insta360's Mic Pro, which I also tested alongside the camera — it essentially eliminates wind noise altogether, and offers the best noise-cancelling I've experienced from a small wireless mic.

• Performance score: 4/5

Insta360 X6: Image quality

• Dual 1/1.1-inch sensors, up from the X5's 1/1.28-inch pair
• 360 video now tops out at 8K/50fps
• 10-bit available across all video modes, including the PureVideo low-light mode

The X6's biggest hardware change is its new dual 1/1.1-inch square sensors, up from the 1/1.28-inch sensors in the X5; that's 33% more sensor area, and around four times the light intake per frame versus its predecessor. That upgrade also brings a higher frame-rate ceiling in 360 mode, with 8K now available at up to 50fps, versus the X5's 30fps cap. Photo resolution climbs too, topping out at 120MP for 360 shots and 42MP in flat mode.

In good lighting, the difference between X5 and X6 footage is there, but it's incremental rather than transformative. I do have to mention AdaptiveTone 2.0 though, which captures two exposures per frame for noticeably better handling of bright skies and high-contrast scenes than I've seen from Insta360 before. I would have previously said the GoPro Max 2 offered the best 360 image quality in good lighting, but now I think the X6 might have equalled or possibly even bettered it.

It's after dark that the X6 really separates itself from the pack, though. The PureVideo low-light mode was already a strength of the X5, but the combination of the larger sensors and 10-bit color now being supported across every shooting mode — including PureVideo itself — pushes noise levels down further still. Neither the DJI Osmo 360's SuperNight mode nor the GoPro Max 2's standard mode (which lacks a dedicated low-light option entirely) come close. I can comfortably say the X6 is the best 360 camera for low-light shooting currently available.

So that's daylight footage that rivals the sharpest in the category, and the best low-light performance by a mile. The X6 is the first small 360 camera I've tested that doesn't force you to accept a trade-off between the two. Where I'd previously have pointed daylight shooters toward the Max 2, and night owls toward the X5, the X6 simply offers the best all-round image quality on the market, in any light.

• Image quality score: 5/5

Insta360 X6: testing scorecard Insta360 X6

Attributes

Notes

Rating

Price

The priciest small 360 camera on the market, and substantially more expensive than the X5 was at launch.

3.5/5

Design

Class-leading waterproofing and a bigger, sharper screen, with tough, easily replaceable lenses.

5/5

Performance

Excellent battery life and useful pro-level software additions, let down by an unstable mobile app.

4/5

Image quality

Video quality that leads the category in both daylight sharpness and low-light performance.

5/5

Should I buy the Insta360 X6?Buy it if...

You want the best 360 camera image quality around
The X6 delivers the sharpest, cleanest footage overall of any small 360 camera I've tested — no more choosing between daylight sharpness and low-light performance.

You need serious underwater durability
IP68-rated and waterproof to 20m without a case, or 60m with Insta360's official dive housing, the X6 comfortably out-swims both the DJI Osmo 360 and GoPro Max 2.

You're a demanding video creator
10-bit color across every shooting mode, native Dolby Vision, and forthcoming native DaVinci Resolve support make the X6 suited to serious post-production work.

Don't buy it if...

You're on a budget
At $699.99 / £619 / AU$1,049.99, the X6 is now the most expensive small 360 camera around, and by some margin. The DJI Osmo 360 and GoPro Max 2 both undercut it significantly.

You own an older phone
Insta360's guidance recommends an iPhone 15 or newer to get a stable experience from the mobile app. I found it crashed repeatedly on my iPhone 13, particularly when editing or exporting footage.

You want flawless software out of the box
Between the app's instability and its inability to switch color profiles remotely, the X6's hardware is currently running ahead of its software. This should improve post-launch, but it's worth going in with realistic expectations.

Also consider

DJI Osmo 360

DJI's debut 360 camera undercuts the X6 significantly while still delivering excellent image quality and a solid companion app experience. It lacks user-replaceable lenses, and DJI doesn't recommend it for underwater use, so it's a better fit for budget-conscious buyers who won't push the X6's headline strengths.

Read our full DJI Osmo 360 review

GoPro Max 2

The Max 2's true 8K daylight sharpness once made it the class leader for shooting in good light, and it remains a strong, more affordable option if you mostly shoot outdoors and don't need pristine low-light performance. Its lack of a dedicated night mode is a real limitation next to the X6, though, and its 5m waterproof rating is far behind.

Read our full GoPro Max 2 review

How I tested the Insta360 X6

• I tested a full production unit (with beta firmware and software) for three weeks
• I shot day and night footage during a hot English summer
• I tested the X6 with and without Insta360's Mic Pro wireless microphone

(Image credit: Future | Sam Kieldsen)

I tested the Insta360 X6 for three weeks, shooting throughout an unusually hot English summer to see how it handled sustained use in warm conditions. I recorded both day and night footage across a range of situations, mounting the camera on the supplied selfie stick for on-foot and cycling shots, and on a SmallRig suction cup mount for car-mounted clips.

I tested audio both with the X6's built-in mics and paired with Insta360's Mic Pro wireless microphone, to compare the camera's own wind reduction against a dedicated external solution.

For editing, I reframed and trimmed footage using the Insta360 Studio desktop app before exporting for final edits and color grading in DaVinci Resolve.

• First reviewed August 2026

Corsair Nightsword V2 Wireless: Two-minute review

(Image credit: Future)

I really wanted to like the Corsair Nightsword V2 Wireless. I've had good experiences with Corsair's mice in the past – having been a big fan of both the M65 Ultra RGB and the Scimitar Elite Wireless SE – so I was hopeful that the new Nightsword would be a contender for our ranking of the best gaming mice.

For those not in the loop regarding Corsair's wide range of gaming mice, the original Nightsword launched nearly seven years ago. Needless to say, I wasn't really expecting another model, but I suppose if The Witcher 3 can get a new expansion more than a decade after its release, anything is possible.

The problem I'm having with the Nightsword V2 is that it doesn't really feel like a 'version 2' of its predecessor. For starters, the design has been changed a fair bit, with the RGB lighting scaled back and the thumb button layout slightly altered. It still maintains the ergonomic overall shape with a nice, comfortable thumb rest, but it's ditched the indent pattern that covered the original mouse.

All that wouldn't cause me to dislike this mouse, though. The problem is that the Nightsword RGB had one very cool feature: adjustable weight tuning. Six mounting points and two different sets of miniature metal weights allowed you to adjust the overall weight of the mouse, with nifty software that automatically detected the mouse’s center of gravity in real time, allowing you to fine-tune your experience to make the mouse feel perfect for you.

It was one of the key selling points of the Nightsword RGB, and Corsair focused heavily on it in its marketing. But in the Nightsword V2, it's nowhere to be found; gone, reduced to atoms.

It's a real shame, because I liked that addition a lot. Not enough gaming mice have tunable weight. It made the Nightsword feel more unique, and removing that feature makes the V2 feel... well, a bit bland, if I'm being honest.

It's certainly not a bad gaming mouse, with an ergonomic chassis that sits comfortably in the hand and a high-quality sensor for fast-paced gaming, but I'd fundamentally struggle to recommend it over some other more exciting options out there. Sorry Corsair, but this one feels like a step backward, not forward.

Corsair Nightsword V2 Wireless: Price & availability

• How much does it cost? $129.99 / £119.99 / AU$189
• When is it available? Available now
• Where can you get it? Available globally

While you could pay more for a gaming mouse these days, the Corsair Nightsword V2 Wireless certainly isn't cheap. Clocking in at $129.99 / £119.99 / AU$189, it sits towards the pricier end of the market, though the build quality and high-spec internals do at least attempt to justify the price.

Although it's a technical upgrade from the original Nightsword RGB, the removal of the tunable weight features stings even more at this price point. Considering that there are plenty of other gaming mice on the market with comparable specs, it's difficult to justify recommending the Nightsword V2 Wireless specifically over similar offerings from other manufacturers, or even Corsair itself.

The Nightsword V2 Wireless is available now in all regions, either directly from Corsair or from assorted third-party retailers.

Corsair Nightsword V2 Wireless: Design

• Robust, ergonomic design
• No more tunable weight
• Thumb button grouping may be frustrating for some users

(Image credit: Future)

As I noted further up, this feels like a very different mouse from the original Nightsword – though at first glance, they appear quite alike.

Corsair has stripped back the RGB lighting a bit for the Nightsword V2, with the only RGB zones now being the scroll wheel, the Corsair logo, and an odd little strip on the raised rear underside edge of the mouse that isn't even visible most of the time. Feels like a bit of a waste of an LED to me, but it doesn't feel worth penalizing Corsair for that.

(Image credit: Future)

I'll start with the parts I liked. Removing the indent pattern from the Nightsword V2's predecessor was definitely a wise move, as those tiny grooves were just begging to be filled with grime after months of regular use. The main body of the mouse that rests beneath your palm now has a smooth matte finish, with a pattern of raised texturing (rather than the old indentation) on either side to help improve grip. The skates are standard PTFE, which offers a good amount of glide on traditional mouse mats and hard desktop surfaces.

In terms of buttons, we've got 11 in total: the two main mouse buttons, a scroll wheel with both a regular click function and left-right tilt inputs, one multifunction button behind the scroll wheel, three thumb buttons (one of which is the 'sniper button'), and two extra vertically-aligned buttons beside the left mouse button, which turn the sensitivity up and down by default. All of these are fully programmable in Corsair's iCue software or Web Hub, so there's a good degree of versatility here for users who like to tweak their mouse inputs.

You also get plenty of flexibility in terms of sensor control and connectivity. The Corsair Nightsword V2 Wireless supports tri-mode connectivity, with a physical switch on the underside of the mouse letting you easily swap between Bluetooth, wired, and direct wireless connections (with a bundled USB-A dongle and adapter as well as a power cable). There's also a slot on the underside that can house the dongle, making it easy to take the Nightsword V2 Wireless on the go.

The Corsair Marksman S sensor supports up to 33,000 DPI, and this mouse also includes up to 8,000Hz polling rate support (though not in Bluetooth mode), both of which can be tweaked to your liking in iCue – though for my money, 8K polling is a bit of a gimmick that will only really benefit the absolute highest tier of skilled esports players.

(Image credit: Future)

The whole thing feels pretty durable and well-constructed, sitting comfortably in the hand for palm and claw grip styles. Fingertip grippers should be advised that mice with thumb rests are simply not designed for them, so you probably shouldn't have clicked on this review in the first place – go buy yourself the excellent Logitech G Pro X2 Superstrike instead.

The buttons are sturdy with a good degree of tactile feedback, though I wasn't overly impressed by the scroll wheel; there's no free-scroll mode, and it lacks the firm motion bump of higher-quality scrollers. The grouping of the buttons on the side of the mouse is also a little awkward, at least for users with large hands like me; while trying to use the sniper DPI button in Valorant and Marathon, I kept accidentally hitting the thumb button immediately above it, using a noisy ability when I was trying to quietly take aim at enemy players. Having scanned through the digital archives of several other reviewers, it seems that thumb button positioning was a bit of a frustration with the original Nightsword too, so it's a shame to see this issue hasn't been addressed.

Of course, I have to further discuss Corsair's baffling decision to eliminate the tunable weight feature of the Nightsword. As someone who loves the Logitech G502 Lightspeed Wireless so much I've bought two of them, due in part to its magnetic tunable weight system, I can't help but feel that Nightsword V2 Wireless could have been a serious competitor to my favorite mouse.

(Image credit: Future)

All the other features I like from the G502 Lightspeed are there: a thumb rest, a sniper button, tilt wheel inputs, and a dongle for low-latency wireless connectivity. But removing the weighting system means I can no longer find the perfect balance of heft and handling that I love about my G502, and I'm left simply confused as to why Corsair would remove it for this new iteration of the Nightsword.

At the end of the day, this is a mostly well-designed mouse with a few noticeable foibles, but I can't help but dream of what could have been. It no longer feels like the Nightsword has anything to set itself apart from the crowd, or even from Corsair's own selection of mice; the ergonomic design with a thumb rest is shared by Corsair's M65, Dark Core, and Ironclaw models, for example.

Oh, and as TechRadar's resident southpaw, I have to note that there's no left-handed model available here. I'm pretty sure they call us lefties because we're left out so often – even if I've personally managed to adapt to using my mouse right-handed.

Corsair Nightsword V2 Wireless: Performance

• Comfortable even for lengthy gaming sessions
• No noticeable input latency even in 1K polling mode
• Long battery life

In practical use, the Corsair Nightsword V2 Wireless is perfectly competent and comfy to use for extended periods thanks to its ergonomic shape and thumb rest. I'm a palm-type grip user, and I didn't have any issues whatsoever with hand or finger strain even after a solid six-hour run in Marathon (the new season is about to start, and I had priority contracts to finish, alright?)

I tested the Nightsword V2 in both 1K and 8K polling rate modes, and frankly didn't notice much of a difference whatsoever – but to be clear, that's not really an outright criticism, as I found the mouse to be highly responsive both in terms of movement and clicks regardless of which polling mode I was in.

(Image credit: Future)

I prefer a fairly high DPI, especially for shooters, and the sensitivity here is great. High-skill users who want a really sensitive mouse may want to look for one with a 40K+ DPI sensor (which will probably cost you more), but the 33K Marksman S sensor in the Nightsword V2 ought to be plenty for the majority of PC gamers.

Aside from the issue I mentioned further up regarding the tight grouping of the thumb buttons leading to potential misinputs, I found that the buttons generally felt great. With optical switches for minimal input latency and improved longevity, the main mouse buttons have a decent amount of travel and a firm, satisfying click. The same goes for virtually every other button on the mouse; no cheap, flimsy feeling or wobbliness here.

I actually quite liked the feel of the sniper button (when I wasn't accidentally firing off an ill-timed energy blast instead of lining up a headshot, anyway). It has a good tactile response, so I know when it's been clicked even with my headset on during a noisy firefight, but it doesn't require much force at all to actuate, meaning that it's easy to hold down for careful aiming.

(Image credit: Future)

I did have to remap some of the default button settings, because having the DPI up/down adjustment set to the two side finger buttons just didn't feel right – I opted for the typical setting of the button behind the scroll wheel to swap between DPI presets instead.

The good news about remapping is that you no longer need to install Corsair's iCue software to tweak your peripherals. It's still available, but like a few other PC hardware manufacturers (including Razer), Corsair now offers a fully functional in-browser web app.

The Corsair Web Hub, which I mentioned earlier in this review, allows you to access all the usual software-level modifications for your Corsair devices all within an super-simple browser page. As someone who has long bemoaned the plethora of proprietary software tools for PC peripherals, it's immensely refreshing to be able to do everything I want to do in a regular browser tab, with no downloads required. I arguably can't really say that this is a point in favor of the Nightsword V2 specifically, but good work on the new Web Hub, Corsair.

Lastly, the battery life on the Nightsword V2 Wireless is seriously good, with Corsair rating it for up to 170 hours of use. Across seven days of regular use (more than eight hours a day on average, since I used the Nightsword V2 both for my daily work and gaming after hours), I didn't need to charge it once after my initial testing with the wired configuration.

Should you buy the Corsair Nightsword V2 Wireless?Corsair Nightsword V2 Wireless: Scorecard

Value

At $129.99 / £119.99 / AU$189, the Corsair Nightsword V2 Wireless isn't cheap, though the high-quality construction helps justify the price somewhat.

3/5

Design

The ergonomic design is comfortable in the hand and whole mouse feels durable, but the thumb buttons are too close together and the lack of tuneable weight is a real shame.

3/5

Performance

The Nightsword V2 is snappy and responsive with nice tactile clicks from its optical switches, and also offers a long battery life.

4.5/5

Average rating

While it's a mechanically decent mouse that will appeal to fans of ergonomic designs, the Nightsword V2 simply doesn't do enough to stand out against the competition.

3.5/5

Buy the Corsair Nightsword V2 Wireless if…

You want something comfortable
The ergonomic shape and thumb rest make the Corsair Nightsword V2 Wireless a comfy mouse to use for long gaming binges.View Deal

You want lots of buttons
11 programmable buttons (including scroll wheel tilt inputs) mean you can do a lot of different things at once with this mouse – great for MMO and MOBA players.View Deal

You don't want to charge your mouse often
With up to 170 hours of battery life and customizable sleep options in the Corsair Web Hub, the Nightsword V2 can go for days and days without needing to be plugged in.View Deal

Don’t buy it if…

You liked the original
Despite being a reasonably good gaming mouse, the Nightsword V2 throws away the most unique feature of the Nightsword RGB.View Deal

You're a fingertip gripper
The elevated thumb positioning of fingertip-style mouse grips is ill-suited for the ergonomic thumb rest design of the Nightsword V2 Wireless.View Deal

You’re left-handed
Granted, this applies to more than two-thirds of the gaming mice on the market, but it's still a shame for lefties.View Deal

Corsair Nightsword V2 Wireless: Also consider

Logitech MX Master 3S

It's a few years old now, but if it ain't broke, don't fix it. The MX Master 3S is simply one of the best ergonomic mice money can buy, making it a strong alternative to the Nightsword V2 if you're specifically looking for a mouse built for comfort. Read our full Logitech MX Master 3S review.View Deal

Razer Deathadder V4 Pro

If you're a PC gamer looking for something a little more serious, the Deathadder V4 Pro from Razer packs low-latency optical switches like the Nightsword V2 but also delivers much higher maximum sensitivity thanks to its 45K DPI sensor. Read our full Razer Deathadder V4 Pro reviewView Deal

How I tested the Corsair Nightsword V2 Wireless

As usual for peripheral reviews, the Corsair Nightsword V2 Wireless became my regular mouse for just over a week while I was testing it out, replacing my daily driver, the Logitech G502 Lightspeed Wireless.

I used it every weekday for my regular work at TechRadar, which in terms of how I use my mouse, is mostly just clicking stuff in my browser and sometimes highlighting text. More pertinently, I used it to play a whole bunch of games: Warframe, Marathon, Valorant, Overwatch, and Apex Legends all currently feature in my regular gaming rotation, and I also used it for Slay the Spire II – though I doubt it had my impact on the quality of my gameplay in that particular title. I'm still really bad at the Necrobinder.

First reviewed May 2026

Garmin Fenix 8 Pro microLED: One minute review

The Garmin Fenix 8 Pro microLED is both a fantastic always-on, lifestyle-support smartwatch, and a 51mm, titanium-bodied multisport watch bulked out with the kind of rugged design that could survive the entire Die Hard franchise. It's absolutely one of the best Garmin watches ever made, but also one of the most expensive.

Of course, the headline ‘brightest smartwatch screen ever built’ feature of this microLED edition is justifiably front and centre, but it also provides the 8 Pro microLED with best-in-class performance, screen clarity and brightness.

It’s bursting at the seams with activity, performance and health tracking features backed up by snappily accurate sensors, which enabled real-time monitoring of everything from shifts in barometric pressure outside in the hills to automatically detecting the start of another eight-metre vertical rep in the indoor climbing wall.

Once you dial the brightness up to maximum in the settings (despite all the hype, the default is befuddlingly set to 75%) the step up in brightness from AMOLED is dazzlingly obvious, and contributes to an impression of increased definition too. In fact, the watch screen is so bright that I could easily use the inbuilt mapping mode to navigate in direct overhead summer sunshine while wearing sunglasses, which is a quality of life gamechanger for outdoor adventurers. And putting it side by side against a maxed-out-brightness iPhone in these conditions really hammers home the benefits of the 4,500 NITs of light coming from those microLEDs.

This next-level brightness is maintained even when viewing the watch face from an acute angle, which can be surprisingly useful when glancing at your watch mid-run or taking quick compass bearings, for instance.

Despite the Garmin Fenix 8 Pro microLED’s 51mm, beefed up form factor (it’s 1mm thicker and 3 grams heaver than the already-thick AMOLED version) I quickly grew used to wearing it 24/7 so that I could really dig into Garmin’s lifestyle, training and health monitoring features. It’s chunky, of that there’s no doubt, but I found the combination of a supremely comfortable, flexible strap and well-designed watch body surprisingly easy to wear all-day and overnight. For the first time in a long time, possibly ever, I found that the sleep monitoring data matched my lived experience almost exactly, which gave me faith in the smartwatch to provide useful, actionable data and insights into how to improve the duration and quality of my sleep without feeling ‘nagged’ to do so.

(Image credit: Future / Matt Ray)

As befitting a true multisport smartwatch, I took the Garmin Fenix 8 Pro microLED everywhere from trail running around London to hiking national parks in sideways rain and from snowboarding at 50mph down a French Alp in -18°C windchill to scaling routes in an indoor climbing wall. I was consistently impressed with the automatic tracking and accuracy of the various activity modes once they’re activated (and there are a lot of modes, including eight running sub-modes and not just Snowboarding but Backcountry Snowboarding too).

I love data but I hate lots of pain points in the tracking experience, so the ability of this smartwatch to intelligently detect and log activity is unsurpassed, in my experience. I found that this smartwatch wasn’t flustered by extreme conditions or environments and the battery life remained consistent even as the iPhone in my pocket was spluttering and dying in sub-zero temps.

Speaking of battery life, it’s nominally less than the AMOLED version, but in practice I got at least four days life on a single charge with Always-On Display on and was pleasantly surprised by its longevity. In situations where battery life was critical, I got used to toggling off the Always-On screen, which made battery life jump to 10 days+. Unlike some smartwatches, there was no perceptible lag when turning your wrist to activate the screen so you don’t sacrifice much usability with this setting.

I also appreciated the rugged design, which shrugged off knocks and scrapes when high in the mountains. Ironically, the biggest impact was when I punched the bezel into a plastic hold when climbing indoors and made the whole wall shake. The sapphire screen remained resolutely unmarked and while I did scrape the very edge of the adonised black finish off the bezel, the titanium itself was undamaged. I look forward to the time when the form factor can be shrunk down, but until then the durability of this smartwatch will see you through despite its egregious, easily-knocked size.

On paper, the brightness upgrade of microLED over AMOLED seems like a ‘nice to have if you have the cash’. But in practice, the real-world experience of discovering unexpected performance and quality of life improvements from a brighter screen are compelling. The upgrade is worth it, and makes me hopeful for the future of microLED technology coming to other smartwatches.

Garmin Fenix 8 Pro microLED: Price and availability

(Image credit: Future / Matt Ray)

• $1,699.99 / £1,399.99 / AU$3,399.99
• A significant leap above the Garmin Fenix 8 Pro AMOLED
• In a price class of its own for a multisport smartwatch

The Garmin Fenix 8 Pro microLED retails for £1,399.99, $1,699.99, AU$3,399.99

That breaks out from the upper reaches of multisport smartwatches and approaches the terrain of luxury connected watches such as Tag Heuer’s Connected Caliber E5. So, you need to be convinced of the benefits of brightness, because that’s 100% what you’re paying for.

• Value score: 4/5

Garmin Fenix 8 Pro microLED: Scorecard

(Image credit: Future / Matt Ray)

Category

Comment

Score

Value

The pinnacle of performance comes at a steep price but the benefits are fully visible.

4/5

Design

Reasurringly robust, visually premium and the 51mm size is surprisingly comfortable.

5/5

Features

Garmin’s full suite of functionality.

5/5

Performance

Snappy HR, accurate sleep monitoring, tracked everything from snowboarding to rock climbing.

5/5

Garmin Fenix 8 Pro microLED: Should I buy?

(Image credit: Future / Matt Ray)Buy it if...

You want screen technology that blows the competition away

You better enjoy the living daylights out of brightness because that’s what you’re paying for, but it really is next-level and surprisingly useful.

You’re an adventurer

A brighter, sharper screen pays dividends when navigating or monitoring performance in both bad weather and the blazing glare of a midday sun alike.

You want a 24/7 smartwatch

Yes, that microLED screen adds even more to the bulk, but thanks to a comfortable strap design and high-performance sensors this is a smartwatch that delivers excellent lifestyle monitoring.

Don't buy it if...

You’re not looking for maximum screen brightness

The Garmin Fenix 8 Pro AMOLED has some advantages including a slightly less thick and heavy watch chassis, marginally better battery life and it’s a lot less expensive.

You don’t want to pay a premium to be a first adopter

Given the clear benefits, we have to hope that microLED technology will appear in a less ultra-premium package, eventually.

You’re looking for maximum battery life

Those 400,000 LEDs can be a significant load on battery life, making the Garmin Fenix 8 Pro AMOLED the winner there.

Also consider

Garmin Fenix 8

The obvious choice to save a few hundred - almost all the features, bar satellite connectivity and those 400,000 microLEDs in practically the same chassis.

Read our full Garmin Fenix 8 review

Apple Watch Ultra 3

If you’re already within the Apple ecosystem this the natural titanium-cased choice for seamless multisport support.

Read our full Apple Watch Ultra 3 review

How I tested

I wore the Garmin Fenix 8 Pro microLED over several months, including stints wearing it 24/7 overnight and for very varied activities and workouts including trail running, indoor climbing, snowboarding, weight lifting, sailing and cycling. I was in 35°C heatwaves and -18°C blizzards, from sea level to 4,000m.

First reviewed: August 2026

"I big, I punch," is probably the most effective and concise way of summing up the last three seasons of Reacher on Prime Video. Alan Ritchson's titular hero has slammed, drop-kicked, and battered his way through three separate stories to date, but Reacher season 4 has something new to offer.

Instead of honing in on Reacher's past or personal vendettas, our eight new episodes are ones of political espionage. Adapting the Lee Child novel Gone Tomorrow, he instead becomes embroiled in a CIA conspiracy after suspecting a woman on a New York City subway train is actually a suicide bomber. It's drama that makes you think, for the first time ever in this franchise.

It's a big tonal swing, and probably a risk that the crime drama needed to take four seasons in — but that doesn't mean it's completely paid off. In a nutshell, getting to the bottom of a big city political scandal has never made me yearn for the small-town days of seasons gone by more.

Clearly, this is part of Reacher's big-picture thinking. Seasons 1 and 3 were based in more rural locations, with seasons 2 and 4 respectively based in New York and Philadelphia. We already know that Reacher season 5 will be set in Oklahoma (like the novel Make Me), and I'm desperate to get there.

Does Reacher really have the chops to dig deeper into its punchy action? Probably not. I doubt we'll see the show stray back into these waters again, and there's good reason why.

Jack Reacher isn't the right action hero to lead a political espionage investigation

If the line "Oh no, I got it wrong!" is your signal to the audience that a dramatic twist is about to take place, then you're likely in over your head. This dialogue passes Reacher's lips halfway through season 4, with our bullish hero a fish out of water, scrambling through a plot that's much bigger than he could ever properly cope with.

On the one hand, I like that this level of insecurity humanizes Reacher more. There's always been more to him than just being muscle and meat hooks in a T-shirt, but now he's able to put his money where his mouth is. Selflessness, understanding, and the ability to be vulnerable flow out of Reacher abundantly in a way it never could have before, and I appreciate that.

However, let's not do this kind of storyline again. Our overarching threat is simultaneously too complicated to fully sink your teeth into and too mundane to actually bother caring about it. The armchair detectives among us will work out who is the 'villain' underpinning Reacher's latest disaster in a matter of seconds, and between season 4's beginning and end, you'll need a notepad and pen to keep up.

I think that an obstacle hidden in plain sight is the fact that Reacher himself doesn't have the same gravitas in a city as he does in a town. Plop him in the centre of Georgia, and he'll obviously scare the crap out of everyone around him. But in New York and Washington, D.C., he's a mere fly in the ointment. Add in a subpar storyline, and Reacher season 4 isn't exactly making its mark in an already oversaturated genre.

However, this might be Reacher's best supporting cast to date

(Image credit: Prime Video)

But let's stop being a Debbie Downer... It's clobbering time! For surface-level viewing, Reacher season 4 is ticking every box you'd expect after its last three seasons, and that makes for some satisfying weekly viewing.

The secret weapon, however, is its supporting cast, which may just be my favorite of all we've had to date. New additions Tamara Green (Sydelle Noel), Jacob Merrick (Christopher Rodriguez-Marquette), and Russell Plum (Kevin Weisman) are Reacher's unlikely gang of allies, and the uneasy friendships that develop between them are the relationships that you're really rooting for.

Together, the awesome foursome drive the excitement of the piece, and help us paper over anything that isn't really gelling together in the story itself. We're desperate for them to break the rules and stick two metaphorical fingers up at authority, and they routinely indulge us. Best of all, our trio of newcomers pulls out all of Reacher's caring traits that we're desperate to see, even if they all make a few bad decisions along the way.

Without giving anything away, there are definitely some distasteful tones bubbling underneath the surface, particularly around how the story approaches sex work and, well, women in general. But hey, who cares when Reacher is going to punch something and take his shirt off, huh?

Reacher season 4 begins airing on Prime Video from August 12.

KitchenAid KF2 two-minute review

The KitchenAid KF2 Fully Automatic Espresso Machine is the entry-level model in the company’s six-strong range of automatic coffee machines, and was launched in mid-2026 alongside the KF3 and KF4.

It adopts the exact same slim build as its two siblings, making any of them ideal for smaller kitchens. It also benefits from the exact same Intelligrind coffee bean grinder, which automatically determines the best grind size depending on the beans you’ve put in. The brewing unit is the same also, and in my taste tests, I couldn’t notice any obvious difference between the three. That means you’re going to get a wonderful, tasty espresso with each use.

What sets the KF2 apart — and where KitchenAid has made cuts to bring the cost down — is its feature set regarding drink presets and general usability. It’s also the only model in KitchenAid’s entire fully automatic coffee machine range to rock a steam wand for foaming milk — the others all use a hose-based system. While this may seem like a drop down in specification, I personally found the steam wand to perform the best when making foamy lattes and cappuccinos. What’s more, a steam wand is inherently going to perform better with non-dairy milk as it allows for greater control over temperature.

As with the KF3 and KF4, the KitchenAid KF2 is capable of making iced-coffee drinks, although as I found in my KitchenAid KF3 review, the results are a little underwhelming. This is because the brewed espresso is hot enough to quickly melt the ice in your cup or glass, despite KitchenAid claiming it’s brewed at a lower temperature.

Where the KitchenAid KF2 loses points slightly is the fact it doesn’t offer user profiles. I’ve been used to having profiles for some time at home, as I currently use the KitchenAid KF4 and have previously used the Philips LatteGo 4400, which offer four profiles and two profiles, respectively. Having them makes brewing a coffee incredibly quick and simple: just select a profile, select a drink and that’s it.

The fact the KF2 doesn’t have profiles means that brewing a variety of coffees will take longer, as you’ll have to select the drink and adjust any settings each time. It therefore might not be the best option for larger households, but for households of one or two people it’s still worthy of consideration.

The other slight niggle I have, which affects the KF3 and KF4 also, is that the unit can go through water relatively quickly due to it running a rinse cycle on start up and shutdown. The shutdown cycle I can understand, but I find the start-up cycle to be a little redundant.

All things considered, the KitchenAid KF2 Fully Automatic Espresso Machine is another fantastic option from the brand. It brews a well-extracted espresso each and every time and the steam wand works wonders for milk-based drinks.

KitchenAid KF2 review: Price & availability

• Launched in UK and US April 2026, Australia in July 2026
• List price $799.99 / £699 / AU$1,099

The KitchenAid KF2 Fully Automatic Espresso Machine launched in the US and UK in April 2026, before making its way to Australia in July 2026. It has a list price of $799.99 / £699 / AU$1,099, making it the company’s most affordable fully automatic machine.

The step-up KF3 adds a small color display to improve navigation and usability, four customizable profiles and a larger menu of drink presets, with a list price $999.99 / £749 / AU$1,349.

The top-tier model, the KF4 ($1,299.99 / £899 / AU$1,599) offers much of the same functionality as the KF2 with regard to grinder and brewing unit. It gains even more recipes, a large color touchscreen and KitchenAid’s hose-based milk-foaming system, complete with milk carafe.

I’m of the opinion that the KF2’s steam wand is the best option for expertly-frothed milk and for using with non-dairy milk varieties, instantly giving the machine a leg up over its siblings. And, since the actual coffee-brewing process is the same across all three machines, the KF2 represents excellent value.

That being said, the Ninja Luxe Cafe Premier offers more in the way of features, including a dedicated cold brew setting and cold-extraction for improved iced-coffee results, along with intelligent grind and dosage settings. Its list price is less than the KF2’s at $599.99 / £549.99 / AU$799.99, although it too doesn’t offer user profiles either and requires more hands-on input.

• Value score: 4 / 5

KitchenAid KF2 review: Specifications

Name

KitchenAid KF2 Fully Automatic Espresso Machine

Type

Bean-to-cup

Dimensions (H x W x D)

14.2 x 7.7 x 18.5 inches / 361 x 196 x 470mm

Weight

19.8lbs / 9kg

Water reservoir capacity

1.9 quarts / 1.8 liters

Milk frother

Yes, Pannarello steam wand

Bars of pressure

15

Noise level

72dB grinding, 60dB brewing

User profiles

0

KitchenAid KF2 review: Design

• Compact size will suit smaller space
• Steam wand suits plant-based milks
• No dishwasher-safe components

(Image credit: Future)

Of the three new compact automatic models, the KitchenAid KF2 sticks out the most for a couple of reasons. Firstly, it’s only available in a matte black finish (the KF3 and KF4 also come in Porcelain White, which I’m personally a fan of), and secondly there’s no color display.

The matte black finish is still sleek and smart-looking, it must be said, although there is a shiny, fingerprint-loving panel on the front at the top. You’ll want to keep a cloth nearby to keep it looking its best.

I don’t consider the lack of a color display to be a huge negative against the KF2, as the backlit panel is bright and clear when selecting a drink and adjusting settings. The color screens on the rest of KitchenAid’s espresso machine range do offer useful assistance with features like images of the drink you want to make, but it’s not something I missed when testing the KF2.

Physically the KitchenAid KF2 is the same as the other two compact models released in 2026, measuring 14.2 x 7.7 x 18.5 inches / 361 x 196 x 470mm (H x W x D). This compact form makes it easy to place the unit on a kitchen counter, and should be especially ideal for those with smaller kitchens. A couple of built-in wheels on the bottom at rear of the machine aid with manoeuvring into position.

Interacting with the KF2 is done via five buttons on the front panel. These select the drink type, dosage and strength — each of which can be pressed multiple times to cycle through options — one to activate cleaning cycles and a final button to initiate and cancel brewing. Each button press reveals a different backlit symbol on the front panel which are relatively self-explanatory.

Drink type cycles between espresso, coffee and over ice, dose lets you choose between one or two servings (either two cups under the dispenser or one for a double serving), and strength is a scale of one to three. This refers to how much coffee is ground into the brewing unit, from 7g (setting one) to 14g (setting three).

The bean hopper recessed into the top of the KF2 is large enough to hold 250g worth of coffee beans, which is accessed via a removable lid. While this does mean there’s no visual indication as to how many beans are left, it does at least mean the beans are kept airtight and away from light, helping to retain their freshness. There’s also a small chute for pre-ground coffee, and a scoop is included in the box.

The 1.8L water tank slides in and out the rear of the machine and has an integrated handle to make the process simple, although I personally prefer a side-mounted tank like the one found on the Philips LatteGo 4400 as I find it makes refilling that little bit easier. However, the KF2’s tank does at least feature a hinged lid, allowing you to fill it up from a jug if you wish.

FutureFuture

KitchenAid supplies a water filter with the KF2 that it claims lasts up to two months when used with standard tap water. If you use filtered water, its life can extend to up to six months. The filter can seem to be a little fiddly to install due to the water tank being so tall. Thankfully the included coffee scoop doubles up as a tool that clips onto the filter, giving you the extra length needed to screw it into place.

The drip tray is deep and extends virtually the full depth of the KF2, and has a large spout integrated into its rear for easy emptying. However, as I found with the KF3 and KF4, when you pour water out it can occasionally spill onto the front panel section as it can’t be removed. It’s not a huge dealbreaker, just prepare for a little extra clean up. Used coffee grounds are deposited into a removable bin in the center that can be tipped out when full. An icon will light up on the front panel to let you know when it’s time.

One of the standout features of the KitchenAid KF2, in my opinion, is its Pannarello steam wand used for milk foaming. I was surprised to find one used, not only because KitchenAid uses a proprietary hose-based system in the KF3 and KF4, but also because other brands such as De’Longhi and Philips have also turned their backs on steam wands (in general) in the pursuit of an entirely automatic coffee-making process.

Personally, I appreciate KitchenAid's choice to include a steam wand here, as it enables you to create genuine milk foam, even when using non-dairy alternatives. In my experience, the hose system on the KitchenAid KF3 and KF4, the LatteGo system on the Philips 4400, and the LatteCrema system on the De'Longhi Magnifica Evo Next all fell short of producing a satisfactory level of milk foam for my taste.

The use of the steam wand does mean there’s some hands-on input required, as you need to hold the jug (which isn’t included in the box) under the steam outlet until the foam reaches your desired level. There’s also no built-in thermometer, so unless you use a third-party thermometer, you’ll have to judge when the milk is ready based on touch.

Whether you are crafting a flat white or a cappuccino, the wand features a small slider for 'more foam' or 'less foam' to ensure you get the perfect texture. By opening and closing the integrated air intake, this slider regulates the airflow: increasing the intake pumps more air into the milk, which creates a more voluminous and aerated foam. Keeping it closed is ideal for texturizing milk for lattes that don’t require as high a level of foam.

The KF2 features thorough cleaning cycles, including the ability to completely evaporate the internal system of water. There are also programs for descaling and cleaning the brewing unit, which require you to press a variation of buttons to initiate. A complete set of useful instructions is included in the box. Do note that none of the removable parts are dishwasher safe.

• Design score: 4.5 / 5

KitchenAid KF2 review: Performance

• Consistently well-extracted espresso
• Steam wand delivers silky, well-foamed milk
• Lower brewing temperature for iced drinks still too hot

(Image credit: Future)

Having already reviewed the KF3, and knowing it uses the exact same brewing unit, I was expecting the same excellent results from the KitchenAid KF2. Fortunately my expectations were realised, as the compact KF2 produced a great-tasting espresso with each use.

Much of its success can be attributed to the IntelliGrind system that automatically determines the ideal grind size depending on your chosen beans. You can’t see the grinder at work, nor does the unit tell you what grind setting it’s chosen, you just have to put your trust in it to deliver optimal results. Your trust is rewarded.

However, if you're not completely satisfied with the crema or taste of your espresso, then the KF2 does offer the ability to manually adjust the grind to a finer or coarser level by way of a lever behind a compartment on the right-hand side of the machine. A finer setting is recommended for light-roast beans, while dark-roast beans benefit from a coarser setting. Since I was using medium-roast beans, I left the slider at the default setting in the middle.

Before you consider adjusting the grind level, you’ll first want to experiment with the strength of either the espresso or coffee drink presets. As mentioned earlier, there are only three coffee-based drink recipe presets: espresso, coffee and over ice. If you move up to the KF3 or KF4 you’ll gain recipes including latte macchiato, flat white and caffe latte, to name a few.

You can also adjust the volume of water used for each drink type, and the temperature it’s brewed at, by pressing and holding a specific set of buttons. You’ll find the full details in the supplied user manual. I was perfectly satisfied with the default settings, but it’s good to know KitchenAid offers the ability to personalize each drink.

Do note that if you do adjust any default settings, they will become the new norm until you change them again. Since there are no user profiles, you may want to consult with other people in your household before you make any tweaks.

FutureFutureFuture

If you want milk with your coffee, then the Pannarello steam wand is capable of producing thick, velvety foam that’s perfect for lattes, macchiatos and cappuccinos. It’s semi-automatic in use, as all you need to do is hold a milk pitcher under the wand and press the start button on the main unit (once you’ve cycled the ‘drink type’ menu through to ‘steam’). A word of warning, make sure you already have the steam wand submerged in milk. I pressed start with the pitcher still on the drip tray and ended up with milk all over the counter and myself.

A small slider on the side of the steam wand housing can be used to adjust the level of foam you achieve, either ‘less’ or ‘more’. In my tests this worked a charm, with the ‘more’ setting aerating the milk to such a high level that it nearly overflowed from the pitcher.

I much prefer the use of a steam wand compared to the hose systems used on the KF3 and KF4, as it’s capable of producing a much better level of froth. It’s also a hell of a lot easier to keep clean, as it doesn’t require constant rinse cycles to ensure the hose is free of residue. I actually wish the steam wand was featured on the company’s other machines.

Do note however that there’s no built-in thermometer to automatically detect when milk reaches your desired temperature. You’ll either have to invest in a dedicated one, or go off touch to determine when to shut the steam off. Also note that a milk pitcher isn’t included in the box. You can buy one directly from KitchenAid for $19.99 / AU$29. I wasn’t able to find a listing on the company’s UK store, but in all honesty, the pitcher available is relatively basic, so you could always get one from Amazon for the same or less money.

Where the KitchenAid KF2 falls down slightly — in a similar fashion to the KF3 and KF4 — is with its iced drinks function. KitchenAid has designed the KF2 to brew an espresso shot at a lower temperature compared to a regular shot when you select the ‘over ice’ drink type.

For starters, iced coffee fanatics will likely prefer a genuinely cold shot of coffee as opposed to having to pour a cooler shot of espresso over ice. Admittedly KItchenAid isn’t the only company to employ this function, as the Philips LatteGo machines also ask you to put some ice into a cup or glass before brewing an espresso.

However, I can’t agree with KitchenAid’s claim that the iced coffee espresso shot brews at a lower temperature, as I used a thermometer to check the temperature of a regular shot and iced shot, and both returned a measurements between 45ºC/113ºF and 50ºC/122ºF, which was hot enough to quickly melt the ice I had in my glass. It’s not necessarily a huge dealbreaker, but the fact remains there are other machines such as the De’Longhi Dedica Duo and the Jura J10 that are able to pour proper cold-extracted espresso for longer-lasting iced drinks.

It is, however, pleasing to find the KF2, like other KitchenAid espresso machines, is QuietMark-certified, signifying it should be whisper-quiet when grinding and brewing. And in reality, that’s certainly the case. I was able to record an average of 70dB while the machine was grinding and an average of 60dB when brewing. That, perhaps expectantly, puts it on par with the KF3 and KF4. That being said, we found the flagship KF8 to be quieter still with an average of 44dB during the entire coffee-making process.

(Image credit: Future)

• Performance score: 4.5 / 5

Should you buy the KitchenAid KF2?KitchenAid KF2 score card

Attribute

Notes

Score

Value

KitchenAid's most affordable fully auto machine offers the best combination of features in my opinion.

4.5/5

Design

Compact form will suit smaller kitchens, although lack of user profiles can add time to brewing process.

4/5

Performance

Excellent coffee and milk frothing, but iced options are a little disappointing.

4.5/5

Buy it if...

You’re short on space

The KF2 is one of the more compact coffee machines we’ve tested, and will slot nearly into smaller kitchen spaces.

You want the essentials done well

The KF2 might not offer an extensive menu of preset drink recipes, but it nails the basics of espresso and coffee.

You drink lattes and cappuccinos

The Pannarello steam wand works wonders to produce thick, velvety foam that’s perfect for milk-based coffee drinks — and it’s great for non-dairy varieties too.

Don't buy it if...

You want a more hands-off approach

With no user profiles and manual input needed for milk, the KF2 isn’t as ‘set and forget’ as many other fully automatic coffee machines.

You don’t like the color black

The KitchenAid KF2 is only available in a matte black finish, which could clash with your kitchen decor.

You like to drink cold brew

The KitchenAid KF2 can’t make it, and its iced coffee espresso shot is still hot enough to quickly melt ice cubes.

KitchenAid KF2 review: Also consider

KitchenAid KF3

This step-up model offers a wider range of drink presets and can automatically foam milk for you via a hose-based system. It also offers four user profiles to save personalized drinks.

Read my full KitchenAid KF3 review

Lavazza A Modo Mio Jolie Evo

If you have a small kitchen and just want a fuss-free coffee, this Lavazza pod coffee machine could be just the thing for you. Espresso is superb and it’s incredibly simple to use.

Read our full Lavazza A Modo Mio Jolie Evo review

Ninja Luxe Café

This 3-in-1 bean-to-cup espresso machine can handle virtually any coffee-based drink you could wish for, including filter and cold brew. It takes care of most of the leg work for you, and is regularly discounted.

Read our full Ninja Luxe Cafe review

How I tested the KitchenAid KF2

(Image credit: Future)

I used the KitchenAid KF2 over a one-week period. I was confident knowing how to use the machine, having previously reviewed the KF3 and from using the KF4 on a daily basis at home.

I prepared all of the available drink recipes — espresso, coffee and over ice — and used a thermometer to test the temperature of the ‘over ice’ espresso shot to determine if it was actually brewed at a lower temperature, as KitchenAid claims.

I also used the integrated steam wand in both its ‘less foam’ and ‘more foam’ settings to determine if there was indeed a difference in results. I also tested it with dairy milk and a barista-style oat milk to find out if it worked well with non-dairy milk varieties.

Read more about how we test

First reviewed August 2026

Hisense UR8 review: Two-minute review

The Hisense UR8 is the first ‘affordable’ RGB TV on the market, and while it has a strong feature set and mostly good picture quality, the UR8 doesn't demonstrate the ‘OLED-killer’ status the RGB tech has been given. While it’s a good TV, it can’t count itself among the best TVs I've tested this year.

The UR8 has a good number of smart and AI features, as well as features for gaming. It also has four HDMI 2.1 ports, an anti-glare screen akin to Samsung’s own Glare Free screens, and comes equipped with Hisense’s Hi-View AI RGB processor.

Picture quality on the UR8 is good, but delivers some disappointments. It demonstrates excellent backlight control for an LED, backlit TV, as well as strong contrast, decent black levels, and crisp textures. Its motion is also good, even with out-of-the-box picture modes, though I did note some blurring at times.

However, as this is an RGB TV, its big selling point should be its colors, and while they are natural, and can appear punchy, they’re not as bold as I hoped for, especially given its ostensibly impressive test measurements (more on that below). While RGB is a step forward in some aspects for mini-LED, TVs using the technology still can’t compete with the best OLED TVs.

Sound quality is solid. The UR8 delivers some weighty bass, good accuracy and precise sound mapping, and delivers clear speech in movies and TV shows. The soundstage can sound narrow, however, and Dolby Atmos effects aren’t always clear. While the built-in sound is good for the most part, home theater fans will likely want to supplement it with one of the best soundbars.

Gaming is one of the UR8’s strengths. With four HDMI 2.1 ports, all kitted out for gaming, it supports up to 4K 180Hz and VRR. When actually playing games, the UR8 feels responsive and delivers a smooth experience. Getting a low input lag time does require adjustment of settings and the picture isn’t always perfect; but while it doesn’t beat the best gaming TVs, the UR8 is still good for gaming.

Value is a mixed bag with the UR8. The 65-inch model I tested launched for $1,999 / £2,299 / AU$2,495, and while prices are already dropping in the US, and it's great value in Australia, its price in the UK puts it in direct competition with some of the best OLED TVs, like the LG C6. While it does deliver good performance and features for the price in the US and Australia, the same isn’t true for the UK.

Hisense UR8 review: Prices & release dates

(Image credit: Future)

• Release dates: June 2026 (US) / July 2026 (UK)
• 55-inch: $1,299 / £1,699 / AU$1,895
• 65-inch: $1,999 / £2,299 / AU$2,495
• 75-inch: $2,499 / £2,999 / AU$3,195
• 85-inch: $3,499 / £3,499 / AU$4,695
• 100-inch: $5,999 / £7,999 / AU$N/A

The UR8 is the Hisense's entry-level RGB mini-LED TV, sitting below the flagship Hisense UR9, but above TVs in the brand's standard mini-LED range such as the Hisense U7S. It’s available in sizes 55-85-inch in most regions, and available in 100-inch in the US and UK (there's no listing for an Australian model yet). The 65-inch model I tested launched for $1,999 / £2,299 / AU$2,495.

Since its release, the UR8’s prices have already dropped in the US, with the 65-inch now available for $1,499. The 55-inch has dropped as low as $999, putting it in the same price bracket as some standard mini-LED models. The same can’t be said in the UK, where its prices are not only higher than standard mini-LED competition, but even pricier than the LG C6 OLED.

Hisense UR8 review: SpecsHisense UR8

Screen type:

RGB mini-LED

Refresh rate:

Up to 180Hz

HDR support

Dolby Vision, HDR10+, HDR10, HLG

Audio support:

Dolby Atmos and DTS:X

Smart TV:

Google TV (US), VIDAA (UK/Australia)

HDMI 2.1 ports:

4 x HDMI 2.1

Built-in tuner:

ATSC 3.0

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}#fv-chart-1785930601694-1y2st3stw-slideshow .fv-chart-wrapper .fv-bar { height: 100% !important; border-radius: 3px !important; display: flex !important; align-items: center !important; transition: opacity 0.2s ease, width 0.8s ease-out !important; min-height: 23px !important; }#fv-chart-1785930601694-1y2st3stw-slideshow .fv-chart-wrapper .fv-bar:hover { opacity: 0.8 !important; }#fv-chart-1785930601694-1y2st3stw-slideshow .fv-chart-wrapper .fv-bar-inner-content { display: flex !important; justify-content: space-between !important; align-items: center !important; width: 100% !important; height: 100% !important; padding: 0 8px !important; font-size: 14px !important; font-weight: bold !important; overflow: hidden !important; }#fv-chart-1785930601694-1y2st3stw-slideshow .fv-chart-wrapper .fv-bar-inner-label { white-space: nowrap !important; overflow: hidden !important; text-overflow: ellipsis !important; padding-right: 8px !important; }#fv-chart-1785930601694-1y2st3stw-slideshow .fv-chart-wrapper .fv-bar-inner-value { flex-shrink: 0 !important; }#fv-chart-1785930601694-1y2st3stw-slideshow .fv-chart-wrapper .fv-bar-value-outside { padding-left: 8px !important; font-size: 14px !important; font-weight: bold !important; color: #374151 !important; white-space: nowrap !important; }#fv-chart-1785930601694-1y2st3stw-slideshow .fv-chart-wrapper .fv-bar-label.fv-primary-product { font-weight: bold !important; color: var(--riv-primary) !important; }#fv-chart-1785930601694-1y2st3stw-slideshow .fv-chart-wrapper .fv-multi-bar-container { flex-direction: column !important; padding: 4px !important; align-items: stretch !important; gap: 4px !important; height: auto !important; }#fv-chart-1785930601694-1y2st3stw-slideshow .fv-chart-wrapper .fv-multi-bar-item { display: flex !important; align-items: center !important; height: 25px !important; width: 100% !important; }#fv-chart-1785930601694-1y2st3stw-slideshow .fv-chart-wrapper .fv-stacked-bar { display: flex !important; overflow: hidden !important; }#fv-chart-1785930601694-1y2st3stw-slideshow .fv-chart-wrapper .fv-stacked-segment { height: 100% !important; display: flex !important; align-items: center !important; justify-content: flex-end !important; padding-right: 8px !important; border-right: 1px solid rgba(255,255,255,0.3) !important; }#fv-chart-1785930601694-1y2st3stw-slideshow .fv-chart-wrapper .fv-stacked-segment:last-child { border-right: none !important; }#fv-chart-1785930601694-1y2st3stw-slideshow .fv-chart-wrapper .fv-segment-value { font-size: 14px !important; font-weight: bold !important; }#fv-chart-1785930601694-1y2st3stw-slideshow .fv-chart-wrapper .fv-grouped-bar-product { display: flex !important; flex-direction: column !important; width: 100% !important; margin-bottom: 1.25rem !important; }#fv-chart-1785930601694-1y2st3stw-slideshow .fv-chart-wrapper .fv-grouped-product-title-wrapper { padding-left: 150px !important; }#fv-chart-1785930601694-1y2st3stw-slideshow .fv-chart-wrapper .fv-grouped-product-title { width: 100% !important; text-align: left !important; padding-right: 0 !important; margin-bottom: 0.5rem !important; font-weight: 700 !important; font-size: 14px !important; color: #374151 !important; text-transform: none !important; }#fv-chart-1785930601694-1y2st3stw-slideshow .fv-chart-wrapper .fv-bar-cluster { width: 100% !important; flex-grow: 1 !important; display: flex !important; flex-direction: column !important; }#fv-chart-1785930601694-1y2st3stw-slideshow .fv-chart-wrapper .fv-bar-cluster .fv-bar-row { margin-bottom: 3px !important; }#fv-chart-1785930601694-1y2st3stw-slideshow .fv-chart-wrapper .fv-bar-cluster .fv-bar-container { height: 20px !important; }#fv-chart-1785930601694-1y2st3stw-slideshow .fv-chart-wrapper .riv-grid line {stroke: #D1D5DB !important;stroke-dasharray: 3 3 !important;}#fv-chart-1785930601694-1y2st3stw-slideshow .fv-chart-wrapper .fv-x-axis-wrapper { display: flex !important; width: 100% !important; margin-top: 0.5rem !important; }#fv-chart-1785930601694-1y2st3stw-slideshow .fv-chart-wrapper .fv-x-axis-label-space { width: 150px !important; padding-right: 10px !important; flex-shrink: 0 !important; }#fv-chart-1785930601694-1y2st3stw-slideshow .fv-chart-wrapper .fv-x-axis-chart-space { flex-grow: 1 !important; padding-right: 8px !important; }#fv-chart-1785930601694-1y2st3stw-slideshow .fv-chart-wrapper .fv-x-axis-wrapper.fv-grouped-x-axis { margin-left: 0 !important; }#fv-chart-1785930601694-1y2st3stw-slideshow .fv-chart-wrapper .fv-x-axis-line { border-top: 1px solid #D1D5DB !important; }#fv-chart-1785930601694-1y2st3stw-slideshow .fv-chart-wrapper .fv-x-axis-ticks { display: flex !important; justify-content: space-between !important; padding-top: 4px !important; font-size: 13px !important; color: #374151 !important; }#fv-chart-1785930601694-1y2st3stw-slideshow .fv-chart-wrapper .fv-x-axis-ticks span { position: relative !important; }#fv-chart-1785930601694-1y2st3stw-slideshow .fv-chart-wrapper .fv-x-axis-ticks span::before { content: '' !important; position: absolute !important; top: -6px !important; left: 50% !important; transform: translateX(-50%) !important; width: 2px !important; height: 4px !important; background-color: #D1D5DB !important; border-radius: 1px !important; }#fv-chart-1785930601694-1y2st3stw-slideshow .fv-chart-wrapper .fv-x-axis-unit { text-align: center !important; font-size: 14px !important; color: #374151 !important; margin-top: 8px !important; display: block !important; }#fv-chart-1785930601694-1y2st3stw-slideshow .fv-chart-wrapper .fv-x-axis-title { text-align: center !important; font-size: 15px !important; color: #374151 !important; margin-top: 8px !important; margin-bottom: 16px !important; line-height: 1.5 !important; padding: 0 1rem !important; display: block !important; font-weight: bold !important; }#fv-chart-1785930601694-1y2st3stw-slideshow .fv-chart-wrapper .fv-y-axis-title {font-size: 15px !important;color: #374151 !important;line-height: 1.5 !important;text-align: left !important;padding-left: 5.83% !important;margin-bottom: 4px !important;display: block !important;font-weight: bold !important;}#fv-chart-1785930601694-1y2st3stw-slideshow .fv-chart-wrapper.mobile-view .fv-pie-container,#fv-chart-1785930601694-1y2st3stw-slideshow .fv-chart-wrapper.labels-on-top .fv-pie-container {flex-direction: column !important; gap: 1rem !important;}#fv-chart-1785930601694-1y2st3stw-slideshow .fv-chart-wrapper.mobile-view .fv-grouped-product-title-wrapper,#fv-chart-1785930601694-1y2st3stw-slideshow .fv-chart-wrapper.labels-on-top .fv-grouped-product-title-wrapper {padding-left: 0 !important;}#fv-chart-1785930601694-1y2st3stw-slideshow .fv-chart-wrapper.mobile-view .fv-bar-row,#fv-chart-1785930601694-1y2st3stw-slideshow .fv-chart-wrapper.mobile-view .fv-stacked-product,#fv-chart-1785930601694-1y2st3stw-slideshow .fv-chart-wrapper.mobile-view .fv-grouped-bar-product,#fv-chart-1785930601694-1y2st3stw-slideshow .fv-chart-wrapper.labels-on-top .fv-bar-row,#fv-chart-1785930601694-1y2st3stw-slideshow .fv-chart-wrapper.labels-on-top .fv-stacked-product,#fv-chart-1785930601694-1y2st3stw-slideshow .fv-chart-wrapper.labels-on-top .fv-grouped-bar-product {flex-direction: column !important; align-items: flex-start !important; margin-bottom: 1.25rem !important;}#fv-chart-1785930601694-1y2st3stw-slideshow .fv-chart-wrapper.mobile-view .fv-bar-label:not(.fv-grouped-product-title),#fv-chart-1785930601694-1y2st3stw-slideshow .fv-chart-wrapper.labels-on-top .fv-bar-label:not(.fv-grouped-product-title) {width: 100% !important; text-align: left !important; padding-right: 0 !important; margin-bottom: 0.25rem !important; font-size: 14px !important; font-weight: 700 !important;}#fv-chart-1785930601694-1y2st3stw-slideshow .fv-chart-wrapper.mobile-view .fv-bar-label,#fv-chart-1785930601694-1y2st3stw-slideshow .fv-chart-wrapper.mobile-view .fv-grouped-product-title,#fv-chart-1785930601694-1y2st3stw-slideshow .fv-chart-wrapper.labels-on-top .fv-bar-label,#fv-chart-1785930601694-1y2st3stw-slideshow .fv-chart-wrapper.labels-on-top .fv-grouped-product-title {width: 100% !important; text-align: left !important; padding-right: 0 !important; margin-bottom: 0.25rem !important; font-size: 14px !important; font-weight: 700 !important;}#fv-chart-1785930601694-1y2st3stw-slideshow .fv-chart-wrapper.mobile-view .fv-bar-container,#fv-chart-1785930601694-1y2st3stw-slideshow .fv-chart-wrapper.mobile-view .fv-bar-cluster,#fv-chart-1785930601694-1y2st3stw-slideshow .fv-chart-wrapper.labels-on-top .fv-bar-container,#fv-chart-1785930601694-1y2st3stw-slideshow .fv-chart-wrapper.labels-on-top .fv-bar-cluster {width: 100% !important;}#fv-chart-1785930601694-1y2st3stw-slideshow .fv-chart-wrapper.mobile-view .fv-bar-row .fv-bar-commentary-inline,#fv-chart-1785930601694-1y2st3stw-slideshow .fv-chart-wrapper.mobile-view .fv-bar-row:hover .fv-bar-commentary-inline,#fv-chart-1785930601694-1y2st3stw-slideshow .fv-chart-wrapper.mobile-view .fv-bar-row .fv-bar-commentary-inline:focus,#fv-chart-1785930601694-1y2st3stw-slideshow .fv-chart-wrapper.mobile-view .fv-bar-row .fv-bar-commentary-inline:focus-within,#fv-chart-1785930601694-1y2st3stw-slideshow .fv-chart-wrapper.labels-on-top .fv-bar-row .fv-bar-commentary-inline,#fv-chart-1785930601694-1y2st3stw-slideshow .fv-chart-wrapper.labels-on-top .fv-bar-row:hover .fv-bar-commentary-inline,#fv-chart-1785930601694-1y2st3stw-slideshow .fv-chart-wrapper.labels-on-top .fv-bar-row .fv-bar-commentary-inline:focus,#fv-chart-1785930601694-1y2st3stw-slideshow .fv-chart-wrapper.labels-on-top .fv-bar-row .fv-bar-commentary-inline:focus-within {position: static !important; display: block !important; width: 100% !important; margin: 4px 0 0 0 !important; padding: 0 !important; background: transparent !important; color: #6B7280 !important; font-size: 12px !important;}#fv-chart-1785930601694-1y2st3stw-slideshow .fv-chart-wrapper.mobile-view .fv-x-axis-wrapper,#fv-chart-1785930601694-1y2st3stw-slideshow .fv-chart-wrapper.labels-on-top .fv-x-axis-wrapper {margin-left: 0 !important;}#fv-chart-1785930601694-1y2st3stw-slideshow .fv-chart-wrapper.mobile-view .fv-x-axis-label-space,#fv-chart-1785930601694-1y2st3stw-slideshow .fv-chart-wrapper.labels-on-top .fv-x-axis-label-space {display: none !important;}#fv-chart-1785930601694-1y2st3stw-slideshow .fv-chart-wrapper.mobile-view .fv-x-axis-chart-space,#fv-chart-1785930601694-1y2st3stw-slideshow .fv-chart-wrapper.labels-on-top .fv-x-axis-chart-space {padding-right: 0 !important;}#fv-chart-1785930601694-1y2st3stw-slideshow .fv-chart-wrapper.mobile-view .fv-benchmark-title,#fv-chart-1785930601694-1y2st3stw-slideshow .fv-chart-wrapper.labels-on-top .fv-benchmark-title {font-size: 16px !important;}#fv-chart-1785930601694-1y2st3stw-slideshow .fv-chart-wrapper.mobile-view .fv-dropdown-title,#fv-chart-1785930601694-1y2st3stw-slideshow .fv-chart-wrapper.labels-on-top .fv-dropdown-title {font-size: 16px !important;}#fv-chart-1785930601694-1y2st3stw-slideshow .fv-chart-wrapper.mobile-view .fv-carousel-nav-btn,#fv-chart-1785930601694-1y2st3stw-slideshow .fv-chart-wrapper.labels-on-top .fv-carousel-nav-btn {padding: 8px 12px !important; font-size: 14px !important;}#fv-chart-1785930601694-1y2st3stw-slideshow .fv-chart-wrapper.mobile-view .fv-chart-title,#fv-chart-1785930601694-1y2st3stw-slideshow .fv-chart-wrapper.labels-on-top .fv-chart-title {padding: 0 8px !important;}#fv-chart-1785930601694-1y2st3stw-slideshow .fv-chart-wrapper.mobile-view .fv-chart-subhead,#fv-chart-1785930601694-1y2st3stw-slideshow .fv-chart-wrapper.labels-on-top .fv-chart-subhead {padding: 0 8px !important;}#fv-chart-1785930601694-1y2st3stw-slideshow .fv-chart-wrapper.mobile-view .fv-versus-header,#fv-chart-1785930601694-1y2st3stw-slideshow .fv-chart-wrapper.labels-on-top .fv-versus-header {flex-direction: column !important; align-items: center !important; padding: 0 !important; gap: 0.5rem !important;}#fv-chart-1785930601694-1y2st3stw-slideshow .fv-chart-wrapper.mobile-view .fv-versus-select-wrapper,#fv-chart-1785930601694-1y2st3stw-slideshow .fv-chart-wrapper.labels-on-top .fv-versus-select-wrapper {flex: 1 !important; min-width: 0 !important; width: 100% !important;}#fv-chart-1785930601694-1y2st3stw-slideshow .fv-chart-wrapper.mobile-view .fv-versus-select-wrapper.fv-left,#fv-chart-1785930601694-1y2st3stw-slideshow .fv-chart-wrapper.labels-on-top .fv-versus-select-wrapper.fv-left {text-align: center !important; padding-right: 0 !important;}#fv-chart-1785930601694-1y2st3stw-slideshow .fv-chart-wrapper.mobile-view .fv-versus-select-wrapper.fv-right,#fv-chart-1785930601694-1y2st3stw-slideshow .fv-chart-wrapper.labels-on-top .fv-versus-select-wrapper.fv-right {text-align: center !important; padding-left: 0 !important;}#fv-chart-1785930601694-1y2st3stw-slideshow .fv-chart-wrapper.mobile-view .fv-versus-select.fv-select-left,#fv-chart-1785930601694-1y2st3stw-slideshow .fv-chart-wrapper.labels-on-top .fv-versus-select.fv-select-left {text-align: center !important;}#fv-chart-1785930601694-1y2st3stw-slideshow .fv-chart-wrapper.mobile-view .fv-versus-select.fv-select-right,#fv-chart-1785930601694-1y2st3stw-slideshow .fv-chart-wrapper.labels-on-top .fv-versus-select.fv-select-right {text-align: center !important;}#fv-chart-1785930601694-1y2st3stw-slideshow .fv-chart-wrapper.mobile-view .fv-versus-vs,#fv-chart-1785930601694-1y2st3stw-slideshow .fv-chart-wrapper.labels-on-top .fv-versus-vs {text-align: center !important; padding: 0.25rem 0 !important;}#fv-chart-1785930601694-1y2st3stw-slideshow .fv-chart-wrapper.mobile-view .fv-versus-select-container,#fv-chart-1785930601694-1y2st3stw-slideshow .fv-chart-wrapper.labels-on-top .fv-versus-select-container {max-width: 100% !important; width: 100% !important;}#fv-chart-1785930601694-1y2st3stw-slideshow .fv-chart-wrapper.mobile-view .fv-versus-select,#fv-chart-1785930601694-1y2st3stw-slideshow .fv-chart-wrapper.labels-on-top .fv-versus-select {font-size: 14px !important; width: 100% !important;}#fv-chart-1785930601694-1y2st3stw-slideshow .fv-chart-wrapper.mobile-view .fv-stl-shop-all-btn,#fv-chart-1785930601694-1y2st3stw-slideshow .fv-chart-wrapper.labels-on-top .fv-stl-shop-all-btn {bottom: 0.5rem !important; right: 0.5rem !important; height: 2rem !important; font-size: 0.75rem !important; padding: 0 0.75rem 0 2.5rem !important; max-width: calc(100% - 1rem) !important;}#fv-chart-1785930601694-1y2st3stw-slideshow .fv-chart-wrapper.mobile-view .fv-stl-shop-all-logo,#fv-chart-1785930601694-1y2st3stw-slideshow .fv-chart-wrapper.mobile-view .fv-stl-shop-all-icon,#fv-chart-1785930601694-1y2st3stw-slideshow .fv-chart-wrapper.labels-on-top .fv-stl-shop-all-logo,#fv-chart-1785930601694-1y2st3stw-slideshow .fv-chart-wrapper.labels-on-top .fv-stl-shop-all-icon {width: 2rem !important; height: 2rem !important;}#fv-chart-1785930601694-1y2st3stw-slideshow .fv-chart-wrapper.mobile-view .fv-stl-shop-all-icon svg,#fv-chart-1785930601694-1y2st3stw-slideshow .fv-chart-wrapper.labels-on-top .fv-stl-shop-all-icon svg {width: 14px !important; height: 14px !important;}#fv-chart-1785930601694-1y2st3stw-slideshow .fv-chart-wrapper.mobile-view .fv-bar-commentary-inline,#fv-chart-1785930601694-1y2st3stw-slideshow .fv-chart-wrapper.labels-on-top .fv-bar-commentary-inline {display: block !important; margin-left: 0 !important; width: 100% !important;}#fv-chart-1785930601694-1y2st3stw-slideshow .fv-chart-wrapper.mobile-view .fv-y-axis-title { padding-left: 5% !important; }#fv-chart-1785930601694-1y2st3stw-slideshow .fv-chart-wrapper.mobile-view.fv-contains-line-chart .fv-footer-content {margin-left: -1rem !important;margin-right: -1rem !important;}@media (max-width: 599px) {#fv-chart-1785930601694-1y2st3stw-slideshow .fv-chart-wrapper .fv-pie-container {flex-direction: column !important; 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Taken using a colorimeter and test pattern generator. Click the test name for measurements and select the chosen test from the dropdown menu.

HDR Filmmaker ModeHDR StandardSDR Filmmaker ModeSDR StandardHisense UR8HDR Filmmaker Mode (10% window)2097HDR Filmmaker Mode (Fullscreen)771TCL QM8LHDR Filmmaker Mode (10% window)3719HDR Filmmaker Mode (Fullscreen)759Samsung QN80HHDR Filmmaker Mode (10% window)1149HDR Filmmaker Mode (Fullscreen)60301,0002,0003,0004,000nitsHDR Filmmaker Mode DataProductHDR Filmmaker Mode (10% window) (nits)HDR Filmmaker Mode (Fullscreen) (nits)Hisense UR82097771TCL QM8L3719759Samsung QN80H1149603Hisense UR8HDR Standard Mode (10% window)2394HDR Standard Mode (Fullscreen)767TCL QM8LHDR Standard Mode (10% window)3771HDR Standard Mode (Fullscreen)795Samsung QN80HHDR Standard Mode (10% window)1204HDR Standard Mode (Fullscreen)67201,0002,0003,0004,000nitsHDR Standard DataProductHDR Standard Mode (10% window) (nits)HDR Standard Mode (Fullscreen) (nits)Hisense UR82394767TCL QM8L3771795Samsung QN80H1204672Hisense UR8SDR Filmmaker Mode (10% window)314SDR Filmmaker Mode (Fullscreen)372TCL QM8LSDR Filmmaker Mode (10% window)229SDR Filmmaker Mode (Fullscreen)0Samsung QN80HSDR Filmmaker Mode (10% window)199SDR Filmmaker Mode (Fullscreen)2310100200300400nitsSDR Filmmaker Mode DataProductSDR Filmmaker Mode (10% window) (nits)SDR Filmmaker Mode (Fullscreen) (nits)Hisense UR8314372TCL QM8L229N/ASamsung QN80H199231Hisense UR8SDR Standard Mode (10% window)1514SDR Standard Mode (Fullscreen)778TCL QM8LSDR Standard Mode (10% window)581SDR Standard Mode (Fullscreen)0Samsung QN80HSDR Standard Mode (10% window)588SDR Standard Mode (Fullscreen)34005001,0001,5002,000nitsSDR Standard DataProductSDR Standard Mode (10% window) (nits)SDR Standard Mode (Fullscreen) (nits)Hisense UR81514778TCL QM8L581N/ASamsung QN80H588340HDR color gamut

Closer to 100% is better. Taken using a colorimeter and test pattern generator.

Hisense UR8UHDA-P3145.2BT.202095.1TCL QM8LUHDA-P397.9BT.202090.2Samsung QN80HUHDA-P395.2BT.202075037.575112.5150HDR Filmmaker Mode DataProductUHDA-P3 ()BT.2020 ()Hisense UR8145.295.1TCL QM8L97.990.2Samsung QN80H95.275Picture accuracy

A lower score is better. Taken using a colorimeter and test pattern generator.

SDR Delta-EHisense UR87.9TCL QM8L3.7Samsung QN80H1.8012345678SDR Delta-E DataProductValueHisense UR87.9TCL QM8L3.7Samsung QN80H1.8Input lag

Lower is better. Taken using a Leo Bodnar 4K HDMI Video Signal Lag Tester.

Hisense UR84K 60Hz11.71080p 120Hz11.7TCL QM8L4K 60Hz9.51080p 120Hz0Samsung QN80H4K 60Hz12.31080p 120Hz5.803.757.511.2515msHDR Filmmaker Mode DataProduct4K 60Hz (ms)1080p 120Hz (ms)Hisense UR811.711.7TCL QM8L9.5N/ASamsung QN80H12.35.8window.iFrameResizer = {heightCalculationMethod: 'taggedElement'};(function() {window.fvAnimateCharts = function(chartWrapper) {if (!chartWrapper) return;function animateBars(chartElement) {if (!chartElement) return;var bars = chartElement.querySelectorAll('.fv-bar, .fv-stacked-segment');bars.forEach(function(bar, index) {bar.style.setProperty('width', '0%', 'important');bar.style.setProperty('transition', 'none', 'important');var targetWidth = bar.dataset.targetWidth;if (targetWidth === undefined) return;void bar.offsetWidth;var targetMargin = bar.dataset.targetMargin;var baseMargin = bar.dataset.baseMargin;if (baseMargin !== undefined) {bar.style.setProperty('margin-left', baseMargin + '%', 'important');}setTimeout(function() {var marginTransition = baseMargin !== undefined ? 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The above EOTF graphs show the accuracy of the Hisense UR8 for hitting different HDR brightness levels in grayscale. The closer to the yellow line, the more accurate a TV is. As with all our tests, these results are out of the box, without calibration, to demonstrate the performance most people will get. As you can see, the UR8 did very well on all three target tests, showing little deviation from the reference line. (Image credit: Future)

Spectral power distribution refers to the intensity of light that a source will display at various wavelengths of color. It can reveal how accurate a source can show color at different light levels, and can be instructive in understanding how a TV is handling color (Image credit: Future)Hisense UR8 review: Features

The UR8 has four HDMI 2.1 ports (Image credit: Future)

• RGB mini-LED panel
• Four HDMI 2.1 ports, up to 180Hz refresh rate
• Anti-glare screen

The Hisense UR8 is the first affordable RGB mini-LED TV to come onto the market, with the Hisense UR9 taking the flagship spot. The UR8 and UR9 are the first RGB mini-LEDs available in smaller sizes, after the tech's introduction in the Hisense 116UX last year. While the UR9 and UR8 are both significantly cheaper than the 116UX, the UR8 is the more affordable option of the two, although it is still pricier than some standard mini-LED.

RGB mini-LED has a similar setup to standard mini-LED, but instead of purely white LEDs within the TV’s backlight, there are red, blue and green LEDs, which are designed to produce bolder colors and higher brightness than a standard mini-LED in the same bracket. Hisense claims that RGB mini-LED can hit 100% of the BT.2020 color space (more on that below).

The UR8 comes equipped with an anti-glare screen, similar to Samsung’s Glare Free screens. It’s a matte screen designed to reduce distracting, mirror-like reflections, to make viewing in brighter conditions easier.

The UR8 is equipped with Hisense’s Hi-View AI Engine RGB processor, which is designed to help boost color performance, as well as offer AI picture and sound features.The UR8 supports both Dolby Vision and HDR10+ HDR formats, as well as the new Dolby Vision 2 format, though no content is currently available for this format at the time of writing. IMAX Enhanced is also supported.

The UR8 comes with a great list of gaming features, including four HDMI 2.1 ports which all support up to 4K 180Hz (up to 4K 120Hz for consoles), VRR including AMD FreeSync Premium Pro, Dolby Vision and HDR10+ gaming, and ALLM. There’s also a game menu, where settings for brightness boosting can be adjusted.

For sound, there’s a Devialet-tuned, 2.1.2 channel speaker system, totaling 70W of power. Dolby Atmos and DTS: X are both supported, and there are a plethora of audio settings and preset modes to dig into.

Which smart TV system the UR8 uses depends on your region. In the US, you get Google TV, while in the UK and Australia the UR8 uses Hisense’s own VIDAA smart TV. As I’m based in the UK, I’ll be discussing VIDAA. It supports an extensive number of apps, including big hitters like Netflix and Prime Video, as well as BBC iPlayer and ITVX in the UK. It also supports Freely in the UK, which can be used to watch live, broadcast TV over Wi-Fi, without the need for satellite or antenna connections.

• Features score: 4.5 / 5

Hisense UR8 review: Picture quality

The UR8 delivers some vibrant colors (shown here in a scene from Elemental), but they seem lacking for RGB (Image credit: Disney / Future )

• Great backlight control
• Effective anti-glare screen
• Colors don’t live up to measurements

In terms of brightness, the UR8 hits some interesting numbers. In Filmmaker Mode, it hit a measured peak HDR brightness of 2,097 nits and in Standard, it hit 2,394 nits. These are solid results, and while flagship OLEDs such as the Samsung S99H are now beating this (it hits 2,743 nits peak HDR), it does beat more standard mini-LEDs in its price bracket such as the Samsung QN80H, which I measured at 1,149 nits peak HDR (though this was on the 55-inch model).

Fullscreen HDR brightness is also solid, clocking in at 771 nits and 767 nits in Filmmaker and Standard modes respectively. Where the UR8 delivers more impressive brightness is in SDR Standard, where it hit a peak of 1,514 nits and fullscreen of 778.

The most surprising measurement, though, was the UR8’s HDR color gamut coverage. Not only did it hit 95.1% of the BT.2020 color space, the highest I’ve measured on a TV to date, but it registered a staggering 145.2% of the UHDA-P3 color space, which massively exceeds the high of 100% I registered on the Samsung S95F last year with the same color space.

Looking at these results, I expected colors to be spectacular — and this brings me to my main criticism of the UR8: the colors I saw did not reflect those measurements. When I watched Elemental, the UR8 still delivered punchy, vibrant colors such as Ember’s flame and the blue of Wade’s water, but they didn’t have the pop I was expecting. In La La Land, at the Spring party, Mia’s yellow dress is bright and natural looking, but I’d seen more engaging colors on other TVs.

I found when I compared the UR8 to the Samsung QN80H, a standard mini-LED in the same price range, the QN80H actually delivered bolder colors. Taking the same La La Land scene for comparison, Mia’s yellow dress, the green bushes, and the red outfits of some party-goers all looked much more vibrant on the QN80H. The UR8’s colors looked natural, but lacked that wow factor I expected from an RGB TV.

The UR8 has some of the best backlight control I've seen from a mini-LED TV (Image credit: Warner Bros. / Future )

It was a shame the UR8’s colors weren’t as dazzling as I’d hoped, because in other areas, the UR8 shines, especially its backlight control. Standard mini-LED TVs can really suffer from blooming (where light from a bright object against a dark background can create a halo effect around said object), but this wasn’t the case with the UR8, which demonstrated little to no blooming through most tests. Watching the UR8 at more extreme angles did reveal some blooming, but it was better than what I’ve seen on some mini-LED TVs in the past.

Watching The Batman, the UR8 demonstrated solid contrast too, with mostly deep black tones and a good balance between light and dark tones, shown as Batman wanders around the crime scene at Mayor Mithcell’s home, or in the bright lights around the Batcave. I did notice blacks could take on a gray hue in some scenes, but for the most part, The Batman looked good.

I did find that the Dolby Vision Dark picture mode was too dim to watch in a bright room, despite the anti-reflection screen, but worked well in ambient and dimmer conditions. The brighter Dolby Vision IQ picture mode works best for brighter rooms. If you do use Dolby Vision IQ, I recommend dropping the brightness from 50 to 49 and turning off precision detail and super resolution for a more natural-looking image with better contrast.

It was a similar story with Alien: Romulus. The UR8 did a solid job displaying the scenes in space, with good contrast between the light from the moon and the black of space as the crew approached the Renaissance station. The black of space was occasionally gray, but still very good for a mini-LED, backlit TV. Again, backlight control proved to be the UR8’s strong suit.

Textures and details appear crisp in most movies, seen here in La La Land (Image credit: Future)

In all HDR movies, the UR8 delivered crisp textures, with refined detail in people, clothing and objects. The UR8 did a good job showing the intricate textures of the various consoles onboard the mining ship in Alien: Romulus. Close-up shots showed sweat, hairs, and facial details like wrinkles with real clarity as well.

One thing I did find odd was that for non-Dolby Vision content, the Filmmaker, Movie, and IMAX Enhanced picture modes all looked identical. There seemed to be no real difference in brightness, color or contrast — something I would expect from a TV.

The UR8 did a good job with sports. Watching some World Cup highlights on BBC iPlayer, motion was smooth in the default Sports picture mode. While most of the motion styles worked, I found myself using either Clear or Standard. Color enhancer is on by default in this mode, and I personally found the colors too oversaturated, so I turned this off, and colors looked more natural. I did notice there was muddying of textures during very quick camera pans, but for the most part, the UR8 worked well for sports.

• Picture quality score: 4 / 5

Hisense UR8 review: Sound quality

The UR8 delivers solid overall built-in sound (Image credit: Warner Bros. / Future )

• 2.1.2 channel speaker array
• Good bass and accuracy
• Soundstage can be narrow

The UR8 has a built-in 2.1.2 channel speaker array, tuned by Devialet, with a total power of 70W. There are a good number of preset sound modes and settings, but I mainly used Standard and Theater mode for my testing.

Watching the Penguin chase scene from The Batman, the UR8 delivered good bass levels, accurately conveying the loud rumble of the Batmobile’s engine. The UR8 demonstrated good accuracy too, mapping the sound of swerving tires, bullet sprays and the horns of passing traffic to the action on screen with solid precision.

While I typically use Theater mode on most TVs, I found that the UR8’s could get harsh at times, with a sudden brightness that I found distracting. Standard mode was a more than suitable alternative, and although it didn't have as wide a sound field as Theater mode, it was more controlled.

The UR8 delivers solid sound overall, but I did feel its soundstage was narrow, meaning not every element of The Batman scene was given room to breathe. It’s a decent sound system for a TV, but overall I’d still recommend a soundbar to go with it.

• Sound quality score: 4 / 5

Hisense UR8 review: Design

The UR8 has a safe, solid design, and uses a central pedestal stand (Image credit: Future)

• Sturdy build
• Solid pedestal stand
• Slightly bulkier depth

The UR8 has a functional, safe design. The TV itself feels sturdy when installed on its central pedestal stand, which does feel solid even though it’s made of a plastic material. The TV is slighter deeper than some rivals, such as the Samsung QN80H, but again it feels well built.

As I mentioned above, the UR8 features an anti-glare screen, which does a good job of limiting reflections in brighter conditions. The 65-inch model I tested felt light for its size and it has a trim bezel, although the bottom bezel is thicker than those on the top and sides. Connections are easily accessible on the side of the rear of the TV.

The UR8 comes with Hisense’s own USB-C and solar rechargeable remote, which for me is one of the better controllers on the market. It does feel a bit light, but for me the button layout is logical, and it’s nice to see a rechargeable remote supplied with a cheaper TV.

• Design score: 4 / 5

Hisense UR8 review: Smart TV & menus

Your smart TV will vary depending on region. The UR8 uses Google TV in the US and VIDAA (home screen pictured) in the UK and Australia. (Image credit: Future)

• Google TV US, VIDAA UK and Australia
• Good number of picture and audio settings
• Dated appearance

As I’m based in the UK, I’ll be discussing the VIDAA smart TV platform featured in the UR8 (also used in Australian models). If you’re based in the US, the UR8 uses Google TV as its smart TV platform instead.

VIDAA is a serviceable smart TV system. It supports a good number of major apps including Netflix, Disney Plus and Prime Video, as well apps from UK broadcasters, including BBC iPlayer and ITVX. The home screen offers a lot of content recommendations, but there's also a large banner space at the top of the screen for ads, which can be distracting.

The menus are neatly and logically laid out, with most settings easy to find. Response times when navigating these menus is good too. There are plenty of settings for adjusting both the picture and sound, although I didn’t use a lot of them.

VIDAA does, however, look a little dated, especially in the menus. It doesn’t have the sleekness of Samsung’s Tizen or Google TV, or the simplicity and color of Roku. Secondly, as someone who does change settings a lot, a pop-up eco warning appears every time and this can get frustrating; and there seems to be no way to turn it off.

• Smart TV score: 3.5 or 4

Hisense UR8 review: Gaming

The UR8 has an excellent choice of gaming features, and delivers solid gaming performance (Image credit: Future)

• Near-full suite of features
• 11.7ms input lag (with the right settings)
• Up to 4K 180Hz refresh rate supported

The UR8 is actually very well equipped for gaming. It has four HDMI 2.1 ports that support 4K up to 180Hz (4K 120Hz for consoles is supported), VRR including FreeSync Premium Pro, both Dolby Vision and HDR10+ gaming, and ALLM.

To get the lowest input lag time, which I measured at 11.7ms in 4K 60Hz, you do have to mess around with some settings. Having put the UR8 into Game mode, I then had to turn on a refresh rate feature, which prioritized faster frame rates, and this is how I got the above result. Without adjusting those settings I measured the input lag time at 20ms, above the 15ms threshold we look for in testing.

Playing Battlefield V in 4K 120Hz, actual gameplay felt smooth, and the UR8 did a good job handling fast-moving action sequences like a shootout in a desert mission. The overall picture quality was good, with high brightness, bold color and solid contrast. I did notice that, during particularly quick camera pans, some textures could muddy, but this didn’t happen every time.

• Gaming score: 4.5 / 5

Hisense UR8 review: Value

(Image credit: Future)

• Great value in the US and Australia
• Overpriced in the UK
• Overall good performance for the price

Value is a tough attribute to grade for the Hisense UR8. As RGB mini-LED is still in its infancy (having only been introduced in 2025, and only come to smaller screens for the first time this year), I did anticipate that RGB TVs would be pricey, even more entry-level models like the UR8.

With the UR8, it all comes down to where you are. When it's on sale, you can pick the 65-inch model up for $1,499 in the US, and prices are only going to drop. This puts the UR8 in direct competition price-wise with standard mini-LED, giving people looking for a TV within that price range more choice. It's also good value in Australia, with the 65-inch launching for AU$2,495, which translates to $1,799 / £1,299. I expect prices in Australia to come down reasonably quickly too.

The same can’t be said for the UK, unfortunately. The 65-inch launched recently at £2,299, which is actually pricier than the LG C6 OLED — and while RGB is meant to be a direct rival to OLED, as I've mentioned, it’s not there yet. I have seen the UR8 drop to £1,999 at some retailers, but this is still OLED-level pricing.

Overall, the UR8 does deliver pretty good value for money. It’s got a good feature set, delivers decent built-in sound, and is good for gaming, and while the picture doesn’t quite deliver what I’d hoped for, it’s still solid compared to most mini-LED. It’s just a shame that the value proposition is region-dependent.

• Value score: 4 / 5

Should you buy the Hisense UR8?

(Image credit: Future)Hisense UR8

Attributes

Notes

Rating

Features

A great list of features, especially for gaming

4.5/5

Picture quality

Detailed picture with good contrast and backlight control, though colors don't have the RGB wow-factor

4/5

Sound quality

Solid built-in sound with good bass and clear speech, but soundstage can be narrow

4/5

Design

Sturdy build and safe design. Slightly bulkier than other TVs

4/5

Smart TV and menus

Google TV (US) or VIDAA (UK/Aus) smart TV. Plenty of useful settings, but design is dated

4/5

Gaming

Near-full suite of features, including four HDMI 2.1 ports, with very good performance

4.5/5

Value

Affordably priced for RGB in US and Aus; overpriced at launch in the UK

4/5

Buy it if...

You want a mini-LED with good backlighting
The UR8's backlight control is great, meaning darker movies show less blooming and viewing angles are improved.

You want a great TV for gaming
The UR8 has a near-full suite of gaming features, and offers very good overall performance once you've adjusted some settings.

You want a good TV for daytime viewing
The UR8 has an anti-glare screen that's good at reducing mirror-like reflections in brighter rooms.

Don't buy it if...

You want the best of RGB mini-LED
While the UR8's picture quality is good overall, its colors don't match my test measurements, lacking the vibrancy I'd hoped for.

You like variety in your movie picture modes
The UR8's three movie picture modes — Filmmaker, Movie, and IMAX Enhanced — all look pretty much the same.

You want the best TV for motion
I noticed during some of my testing that textures could blur during fast-paced action, meaning some detail was lost in games and sport.

Also consider

Hisense UR8

Hisense UR9

Samsung QN80H

LG C6

Price (65-inch)

$1,499 / £2,299 / AU$2,495

$1,699 / £2,299 / AU$3,499

$1,599 / £1,299 / AU$1,999

$1,799 / £2,299 / AU$3,499

Screen type

RGB mini-LED

RGB mini-LED

Mini-LED

OLED

Refresh rate

120Hz (Up to 180Hz)

120Hz (up to 170Hz)

144Hz

165Hz

HDR support

Dolby Vision, HDR10+, HDR10, HLG

Dolby Vision, HDR10+, HDR10, HLG

HDR10+, HDR10, HLG

Dolby Vision, HDR10 and HLG

Smart TV

Google TV (US) / VIDAA (UK/Aus)

Google TV (US) / VIDAA (UK/Aus)

Tizen

webOS 26

HDMI ports

4 x HDMI 2.1

3 x HDMI 2.1

4 x HDMI 2.1

4 x HDMI 2.1

Hisense UR9
The step-up model from the UR8, the UR9 delivers higher brightness, more dimming zones and bolder colors. It's also the same price as the UR8 in the UK at the time of writing. The UR8 is the better choice for gamers with multiple consoles, however, as the UR9 only offers 3 HDMI 2.1 against the UR8's 4.

Samsung QN80H
A standard mini-LED, the QN80H isn't as bright as the UR8, and its backlight control isn't as good, resulting in more blooming than the UR8. Side-by-side however, the QN80H does seem to deliver bolder, punchier colors than the UR8.

Check out my Samsung QN80H vs Hisense UR8 comparison

LG C6
The LG C6 is an OLED with deeper blacks, bolder colors and better motion handling than the UR8, while the UR8 offers higher brightness for better bright-room viewing. In the US and UK, the C6 is priced very similarly to the UR8, but in Australia, the C6 is closer to the step-up UR9 in price.

Read our full LG C6 reviewView Deal

How I tested the Hisense UR8

(Image credit: Future)

• Tested over two weeks
• Tested in different lighting conditions in lab
• Measurements taken using Portrait Displays' Calman color calibration software

My first step in testing the Hisense UR8 was to establish the best picture modes for critical testing, and I landed on Filmmaker Mode and Cinema mode (which admittedly looked very similar).

I then used reference scenes to test the UR8's picture quality, focusing on brightness, color, detail, upscaling, contrast and backlight control. I used a couple of these same scenes to test the TV's built-in speakers.

I also used an Xbox Series X to test the TV's gaming features and performance, playing Battlefield V.

Apart from objective testing, I took measurements of the UR8 using specialized equipment. This included a Jeti Spctral 15VA Spectroradiometer and Klein K-10A colorimeter (with both meters profiled together), with a Murideo Six G 8K Metal test-pattern generator. I took measurements using Portrait Displays' Calman color calibration software.

The first measurements I took were the UR8's brightness, in both SDR and HDR. I used white window patterns in sizes ranging from 1-100%, with peak (10%) and fullscreen (100%) windows serving as the primary focus. I took measurements in the UR8's Standard and Filmmaker Mode pictures modes.

After this, I measured the color and grayscale accuracy (in SDR), focusing on the Delta-E values (the margin for error between the test signal sent and what's displayed on screen).

Next, I measured the UR8's HDR color gamut coverage, focusing on the BT.2020 and UHDA-P3 color spaces.

I also measured the UR8's HDR EOTF in 1,000, 4,000 and 10,000 nits. This shows the UR8 accuracy at both light and dark levels. I also tested the UR8's spectral power distribution, which demonstrates color performance.

Finally, I tested the UR8's input lag time using a Leo Bodnar 4K HDMi Input Lag Tester.

Read our in-depth overview of how we test TVs at TechRadar.

• First reviewed: July 2026
• Read TechRadar's reviews guarantee

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(Image credit: IPRoyal)Mobile Proxies

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IPRoyal has an intuitive, user-friendly dashboard (Image credit: IPRoyal)

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One of IPRoyal’s strengths is its high level of user-friendliness. Users get an intuitive dashboard to manage their proxies and other complementary tools. All features are neatly arranged in the left-hand menu, whereas on the right, you can gain access to the main menu. The interface is visually pleasing and easy to navigate, and you can select between light theme, dark theme, or the automatic theme that matches your browser settings.

IPRoyal has an intuitive, user-friendly dashboard (Image credit: IPRoyal)

IPRoyal’s browser extensions also contribute to its ease of use. It lets you manage proxies regardless of the web page you’re currently on. The updated extension also provides a direct login inside the popup to your account, where you can generate proxy profiles, adjust location targeting, purchase bandwidth on the fly, and more.

IPRoyal: Customer Support

IPRoyal makes getting assistance easy with 24/7 customer support available around the clock. Rather than leaving you waiting up to 24 hours for an email, you can get near-instant help via live chat directly on the website and dashboard, email support, or the official Discord community server. Enterprise clients even get bumped to VIP status with dedicated account managers and fastlane support.

The only real omission is no telephone support option, though given how fast live chat and Discord respond, you won't miss phone hold music.

If you prefer troubleshooting on your own, you have IPRoyal’s self-service library at your disposal. The official Docs hub and Help Center cover everything from quick-start integration tutorials to detailed API specifications and code examples.

On top of that, IPRoyal provides several free built-in utilities, like browser extensions, a standalone proxy tester, an online proxy checker, IP lookup tools, and a WebRTC leak test.

IPRoyal: The Competition

IPRoyal has numerous competitors, and we’d like to highlight Webshare, Oxylabs, and Bright Data.

Webshare offers a network of roughly 80 million+ IP addresses across residential and datacenter proxy tiers, putting its total count slightly ahead of IPRoyal’s 64 million+ residential pool. Just like its competitor, Webshare provides an intuitive user dashboard and straightforward proxy management, with a dedicated browser extension to boot, though it differentiates itself with a free-forever 10-proxy plan.

Oxylabs has a massive network of 175 million proxy IPs, triple that of IPRoyal. This broader network provides users with more redundancy and reliability. Oxylabs remains a powerhouse for large-scale enterprise data collection, though IPRoyal delivers a significantly more budget-friendly entry point with no monthly commitments or minimum spend requirements.

Bright Data rounds out the competition with 72 million+ residential IPs (and an overall global pool reaching up to 400 million monthly IPs), together with extensive unblocking toolkits and enterprise compliance certifications. However, while Bright Data caters primarily to large corporate budgets with higher minimum commitments, IPRoyal offers a simpler self-service alternative that gives individual developers and growing teams access to enterprise-grade features without the steep pricing curve.

IPRoyal: Final verdict

IPRoyal has built a reputation as a go-to proxy provider for everyone from weekend solo developers to data-hungry corporations, and it’s easy to see why. Between a sizable proxy network, transparent pricing, reliable uptime, and 24/7 customer support that admirably does its job, it punches well above its weight class.

In older reviews, the main knocks against IPRoyal were its smaller IP pool and a lack of built-in web scraping APIs. But those criticisms are officially out of date, as the network has scaled dramatically. On top of that, the addition of the AI-powered Web Unblocker and dedicated tools like the Video Scraper API completely bridges the gap for automated, hassle-free data collection.

Add in perks like bandwidth that never expires on pay-as-you-go plans, expanded payment options, and dedicated Enterprise Proxies, and IPRoyal is no longer a budget-friendly option for small outfits, but a serious full-spectrum proxy ecosystem for operations of any size.

• To find out more, see our guide to the best proxies available.
• You might also like to read our guide to sneaker proxies, or find out the difference between residential and datacenter proxies.

Alienware 15 (2026) review: Two Minute Review

Alienware's going "entry-level" with this one. Or, at least sort of. The whole list of configurations of the new Alienware 15 (2026) is a little confusing. Officially it starts at £879 in the UK, but for that you get an RTX 3050 GPU instead of the 5050 that we have in this review unit. That's a five year old graphics card there hidden away in a 2026 laptop. So first thing's first, keep a bloody good eye on the spec you get. The last thing you want is to think you're snatching up a bargain, only to be caught out by a sub-par silicon mix-up crushing your frame-rates in the process.

The good news, though, is that on the whole the specs of the Alienware 15 (2026) we were sent (Ryzen 7 260, RTX 5050, 16GB DDR5, and 512GB SSD), is actually remarkably good value for money. Particularly in the US. You can pick one up for about $1,160 or so. It's a lot more expensive in the UK (£1,333) but Stateside, it's a healthy config that delivers some impressive performance as it just peeks over that $1,000 parapet.

Ultra graphical presets aren't off the table here, at 1920x1200, but medium-high on those AAA titles is really going to be the place that leverages that 165 Hz 1920x1200 panel most efficiently. It's not the best of screens, though, as Alienware's got this thing labelled as "IPS", and I'm just not sure about that, because to be frank, the color reminds me more of a TN panel from 2011, than a modern-day IPS, "IPS-like" maybe. Perhaps we've been spoiled with OLED displays of late. Perhaps.

(Image credit: Future)

It's not the only place that's been stripped back either; connectivity still touts Wi-Fi 6 and Bluetooth 5.2 (yes, in 2026), the build quality is a little plasticky, and the bevelled edges and rounded corners everywhere feel a bit dated, even if it keeps in-line with the brand's style. Oh and then there's my personal pet peeve, the dreaded single-channel memory setup. So you (yes you) can spend more money and increase the capacity at a later date (I mean you could do that with a dual-channel setup as well, but what do I know?).

Fortunately, a lot of the usual laptop woes that crop up with single-channel memory are easily overlooked by that hefty RTX 5050 delivering the frame-rate goodness, but it's still worth bearing in mind, if you are fixated on using this thing for productivity over gaming.

Oh and the SSD is just sad. Sure it's a PCIe 4.0 drive, and the sequential speeds are good, but the random 4K writes are savagely low, and it's a 512GB model, leaving you with about 480GB to play with once Windows 11 is installed. Ouch.

Still, for the price, and those negatives aside, it's remarkably robust and a genuine bargain, particularly around deal time.

Alienware 15 (2026) review: Price & Availability

• Available for $1,159.99 / £1,333 (around AU$2,500)
• UK buyers pay a hefty premium compared to the US
• Base config still ships with RTX 3050 or 4050 era silicon

On the cost front, the Alienware 15 (2026), also known by its model number DA15265, is a curious thing. And its appeal is almost entirely dependent on where exactly your PC gaming escapades are based.

If you're in the US, it's a strikingly good deal. At $1,160 at time of writing, you get top-tier performance, delivering high frame-rates in modern titles, for a smidge over the $1K mark. If you're in the UK, though, this specific config will set you back £1,333.81. That's the equivalent of about $1,800. And yes, I know sales tax is a thing as well, but it's not $640 that's for sure. What a markup.

The more confusing element, however, is the broad range of SKUs available. It's not uncommon to see a single product and design offer many different configurations, especially graphics cards for gaming laptops, but the fact that the Alienware 15 (2026) is available with cards all the way down to an RTX 3050 does muddy the waters somewhat. Particularly if you're snapping up a quick deal around Black Friday, and don't take time to check the specs.

• Value score: 3.5 / 5

Alienware 15 (2026) review: specs

Base

Review

Price

$1,049.99 / £879 (around AU$1,679)

$1,159.99 / £1,333.81 (around AU$2,548)

CPU

AMD Ryzen 5 220

AMD Ryzen 7 260 (8 cores, 16 threads, up to 5.1GHz)

GPU

Nvidia GeForce RTX 3050 (UK) / RTX 4050 (US)

Nvidia GeForce RTX 5050 8GB

RAM

8GB DDR5 5,600 MT/s

16GB DDR5 5,600 MT/s

Storage

512GB M.2 PCIe 4.0 NVMe

512GB M.2 PCIe 4.0 NVMe

Display

15.3-inch WUXGA (1920 x 1200) 16:10, 165Hz

15.3-inch WUXGA (1920 x 1200) 16:10, 165Hz

Ports and Connectivity

2x USB-A 3.2 Gen 1, 1x USB-C 3.2 Gen 2 (PD 100W + DP 1.4a), 1x USB-C 3.2 Gen 1, HDMI 2.1, RJ45 (1GbE), combo audio; Wi-Fi 6, Bluetooth 5.2

2x USB-A 3.2 Gen 1, 1x USB-C 3.2 Gen 2 (PD 100W + DP 1.4a), 1x USB-C 3.2 Gen 1, HDMI 2.1, RJ45 (1GbE), combo audio; Wi-Fi 6, Bluetooth 5.2

Battery

70Whr - 130W Adapter

70Whr - 180W Adapter

Dimensions

13.76 x 9.85 x 0.9 in / 349.5 x 250.3 x 22.95 mm

13.76 x 9.85 x 0.9 in / 349.5 x 250.3 x 22.95 mm

Weight

4.85lbs (2.2kg)

4.96lbs (2.25kg)

Alienware 15 (2026) review: Design

• Slimmer than you'd expect from Alienware
• Dated design leaves a lot to be desired
• Spongey keyboard and abrasive trackpad

Surprisingly for a 15-incher, the Alienware 15 (2026) is... well, not quite as bulky as you'd expect for an Alienware unit at the budget end of the spectrum.

It's not light at 2.2kg (4.85lbs), at least not in this configuration, but it's a far cry from what you'd usually expect for an affordable gaming laptop. Sadly, Alienware's still hanging onto that smooth-faced design somewhat here, and there's a lot of curvature. The panels, the chassis, the hinge, the edges, they all slowly curve downwards, into an almost egg-shaped design. Even the screen has a bevelled curved edge smoothly radiating outwards, which does feel a touch dated compared to some of the competition out there.

Perhaps unsurprisingly for a laptop at this price, the materials aren't the best either; there's a lot of plastic here, and it's the single biggest indicator that, yeah, this might be on the cheaper end of the budget spectrum.

(Image credit: Future)

The keyboard too, is remarkably spongy. If you told me it was a membrane board, I'd believe you, and the trackpad has this weird cheap semi-abrasive finish to it that gives me the ick a little bit (thanks Gen Z). But you know, no gamer worth their salt is going to be using that over one of the best gaming mice anyway.

Port selection is fairly minimal too, and there's no Thunderbolt either (given it's an AMD platform), although you do get HDMI 2.1, and Gigabit Ethernet to cover the essentials.

• Design score: 3.5 / 5

Alienware 15 (2026) review: Design

• RTX 5050 and 1200p screen are a radical pairing
• Single-channel RAM is frustrating
• Rapid sequential SSD performance, but it struggles on large transfers

Alienware 15 (2026) benchmarks

3DMark: Solar Bay: 39,795; Steel Nomad: 8,995
Cinebench R24: Single Core: 103; Multi Core: 826
Crossmark: Overall: 1,447; Productivity: 1,454; Creativity: 1,538; Responsiveness: 1,186
CrystalDiskMark: Sequential Read: 6,936.23 MB/s; Sequential Write: 5,899.46 MB/s; 4K Random Read: 57.73 MB/s; 4K Random Write: 119.74 MB/s
HandBrake 4K to 1080p: 125.6fps
Total War: Warhammer III: Mirrors of Madness (1080p, Medium): 134fps
Cyberpunk 2077: (1080p, Medium): 90.2 fp; (1080p, Medium, FSR Quality + FG): 156.6fps
Battery Life (PCMark 10): 4 hours and 9 minutes

Alienware's paired Nvidia's RTX 5050 laptop chip with that (I'm still calling it an) "IPS-like" 1920x1200 display capable of driving 165 Hz refresh rates, with AMD FreeSync to back it all up (at least in this configuration), and the good news is that performance absolutely slaps at that resolution.

Cyberpunk 2077 on the medium preset averaged 90fps at 1080p with the lows sliding in at just 72, and not a drop of upscaling insight. Switch to DLSS on quality with frame generation, and that figure skyrockets to 157 fps on average. Total War: Warhammer 3, also managed an impressive 134 fps as well, and Final Fantasy XIV's Dawntrail benchmark clocked an impressive 102 fps on the High (laptop) preset. Ultra at native resolution isn't off the cards here, and it shows.

As for the CPU, that's one of AMD's Zen 4 Hawk Point Ryzen 7 260s, complete with eight cores and 16 threads, and it cuts just as neatly a line in professional activities as its RTX 5050 counterpart does in game. Cinebench 2024 managed 826 points in the multi-core test, and it savaged 3D Mark's CPU Profile benchmark with a juicy 7,558.

(Image credit: Future)

There are a few caveats worth mentioning. Namely, the SSD is a bit... underwhelming. For one, it's just a 512GB model, and although its sequential performance is solid (it's a PCIe 4.0 unit provided by Samsung), the figures that count for game load times, random 4K read and writes, were well under par.

And then there's the memory. I've banged on enough about how frustrating it is dealing with the memory crisis, and manufacturers continually turning to single channel setups for their off the shelf PCs and laptops, and it's unfortunately true here. If you do want to expand and chuck another 16GB stick in later, yeah you can, but there really ought to have been a default option for that from the get go. It's like we're going backwards in performance, not forwards.

• Performance score: 4/5

Alienware 15 (2026) review: Battery life

• Rapid charging
• 70 Whr battery can't compete against hungry silicon

Let's not beat around the bush here; this is a gaming notebook. It's not a Snapdragon-based Acer model with ridiculously impressive multi day battery life, nor is it one of Intel's hyper-efficient Panther Lake units like we saw in Dell's latest XPS, no sir.

You can throw all the Nvidia Optimus screen switching tricks you can at this thing, but at the end of it all, it's still going to chew through battery life faster than I get through cable ties. And chew through it it did.

(Image credit: Future)

The Alienware 15 managed just 89 minutes in PC Mark's gaming battery benchmark, before tapping out at 2%. The video test faired much better however, scoring 4 hours and 9 minutes, although again a far cry from the 14 hours Asus's Vivobook S 15 Copilot managed.

Should I buy the Alienware 15 (2026)?

Attributes

Notes

Rating

Value

The performance per $ you're getting here is insane, particularly with that GPU and screen combo. However there's a catch, and if you're in the UK, you're going to be sorely disappointed.

3.5 / 5

Design

It's slimmer than its typical counterparts, and the port selection is solid, just don't expect modern 2026 connectivity standards.

3.5 / 5

Performance

Gaming performance? Tick. CPU performance? Also tick. But the SSD and RAM direly need an update.

4 / 5

Battery Life

89 minutes of gaming; four hours of content streaming; your ten year old Dell probably manages the same.

3 / 5

Final Score

If you're US based, and all you care about is gaming on the move, the Alienware 15 won't leave you disappointed. Just remember to keep it plugged in while you do it.

3.5 / 5

Buy it if…

You want a plug-in 1200p gaming notebook that actually puts that 165 fps panel to work
The RTX 5050 paired with the screen is genuinely smart, and delivers impressive performance at the price without any upscaling or frame-gen trickery.View Deal

You're on a tight budget, but you still want to game
This might be one of the best gaming laptops we've seen for the price. Yes, it's got a few rough edges, but if you smooth them out, it'll easily deliver.View Deal

Don't buy it if…

You care about color accuracy, or brightness
Officially, the panel's rated for just 62.5% sRGB coverage at 300 nits. Creative work, at least color-accurate creative work, is off the table entirely. This isn't a punchy OLED, that's for sure.View Deal

You're after a modern design
Bevelled edges everywhere really don't help sell the "premium" aesthetic that Alienware's after here. Maybe it's time to retire the curves in favor of something a little sharper.View Deal

Alienware 15 (2026) review: Also Consider

Lenovo LOQ 15

Lenovo's budget line is the one to beat. The current LOQ 15 pairs similar RTX 50-series graphics cards with street prices that regularly undercut the DA15265 by quite the margin. Dodge the Alienware tax, and benefit with a better piece of kit.

Read our full Lenovo LOQ 15 review

Acer Nitro 16

Acer's Nitro line follows in a very similar vein and its latest line-up including the RTX 50 series equally packs in some serious clout. You get the same GPUs, with better panels, consistently cheaper. That's a win through and through.

Read our full Acer Nitro 16 review

How I tested the Alienware 15 (2026)

• Tested at home, in the office and on the move
• Benchmarked and used across a wide variety of gaming and productivity tasks
• 11 years of expertise testing laptops, and three weeks with the Alienware 15

I put the Alienware 15 (2026) through its paces, testing it against my usual suite of gaming laptop benchmarks, covering everything from CPU performance, to gaming and everything else in between. I compared it against my database of similarly priced laptops, and used it as my daily driver for three weeks of thorough testing.

Every result was captured under identical, controlled conditions, on a clean Windows 11 install, with the latest updates and drivers. No programs or bloatware were removed, and no power profiles altered during testing, to better represent what an end-user might expect.

• First reviewed: August 2026

Dyson v10 Konical + Auto-empty Dok: two-minute review

Almost all robot vacuums now come with an auto-emptying charging dock that automatically transfers the debris in the robot to a larger dust bag in the dock. Well, the Dyson v10 Konical + Auto-empty Dok (as Dyson calls it) brings a similar hands-free system to the world of cordless stick vacs.

Roborock, Tineco, and Shark have already aired their versions and, according to comments online, it seems that the public is up for this kind of system because it saves the hassle of manually emptying the vac's bagless dustbin while almost totally removing all elements of dust in the process.

The problem, as I see it, is the size of the docks these vacs come with, of which the Dyson model we're reviewing here is definitely the tallest and one of the most incongruous. It fact, at 47.24in/120cm in height, the Dyson Dok is as tall as some users, and that's quite a comical stat for a stick vac.

In its favor, the Dok does a decent job of emptying the contents of the v10 hand unit's small 0.52 qt / 0.5 liter bin (when there isn’t too much hairy detritus inside), it keeps the v10's battery permanently topped up, and it has a cupboard for storing the two main accessories it comes with — a mini motorized brush and a detail nozzle, with space for at least one extra accessory.

Dock aside, the real winner here is the light and compact v10 Konical, which sports an ample 150 air watts of suction power and comes with Dyson's latest twin cone-shaped brush head, with a laser-style light for illuminating the path ahead. This brush head is radically different to any other on the market and was developed with one sole aim: to reduce the amount of hair on the spindle. If you have hirsute pets in the home, a brush head like this could be a genuine hassle-saver.

If the idea of a monolithic self-emptying dock fails to tickle your fancy but you still like the idea of a compact stick vac with a unique, high-performance brush head, you'll be pleased to learn that both the V10 Konical and the Dyson Dok can be bought separately. I'll leave you to decide.

Dyson v10 Konical + Auto-empty Dok: price & availability

• List price £569.99 / $649.99 / AU$999
• Launch date April 2026
• Availability UK, USA, Australia and most of Europe

The Dyson v10 Konical + Auto-empty Dok combo offers relatively decent value, but whether it can be considered excellent value depends on how much you appreciate its self-emptying system.

The v10 Konical itself is an extremely capable mid-range cordless vacuum with strong suction, thoughtful ergonomics and an innovative conical anti-tangle cleaner head. However, it's the bundled auto-empty Dok that sets this model apart, so if you vacuum frequently, have hairy pets or suffer from allergies, it could be considered a genuine quality-of-life improvement rather than just another gimmick.

The downside to this system is the price because you're ultimately paying a premium for convenience and buyers who don't mind manually emptying a dustbin may find better value in purchasing the v10 Konical on its own or opting for Dyson's standard v8 or v12 models, or even a raft of rival cordless vacuums from the likes of Shark, Samsung, Halo, Roborock and Tineco. These brands offer similar cleaning performance stats for less and, in some cases, quite a lot less.

If you live in the UK, you can purchase the Dyson v10 Konical + Auto-empty Dok direct from Dyson or Argos for £569.99 or, for an even better deal, head straight to John Lewis or AO, where it's selling for £549.99. If you don't fancy the Dok, you can also purchase the v10 Konical on its own from the aforementioned stores for £449.99.

If you're shopping in the USA, try Dyson direct where this package sells for $649.99. For some reason the full package is difficult to find beyond Dyson's US website but you can buy the v10 Konical unit as a separate entity from Walmart and Best Buy where it's selling for $399.99.

The combo has a list price of AU$999 in Australia,, but at the time of writing is discounted to AU$797 when bought directly from Dyson's online store.

• Value score: 3.5/5

Dyson v10 Konical + Auto-empty Dok: specs

Cordless/Wired?

Cordless

Weight (v10)

3.60lbs / 1.63kg

Dimensions (vacuum unit) (LxWxH)

13.79in/35cm x 5.11in/13cm x 7.87in/20cm

Dimensions (dock) (LxWxH) 

47.24in/120cm x 7in/18cm x 6.69in/17cm

Bin size (vacuum) - bagless

0.52 qt / 0.5 liter

Bin size (dock) - bagged

2.64qt / 2.5 liters

Max runtime

A claimed 60 mins in Eco mode

Suction power

150 AW

Charge time

4 hours

Noise level

75 - 85dB

Tools

Detangling conical head, Mini Motorised Tool, Crevice tool

Dyson v10 Konical + Auto-empty Dok: design

• Light and compact vac
• Impressive suction
• Overly tall and incongruous dock

I've tried both the Roborock H60 Hub Ultra and the Tineco Pure One Station and I can definitely see the appeal of having a cordless stick vac with its own dust-emptying station. Firstly, it's somewhere to store the vac while it's being charged but, more importantly, it negates the need for any any manual emptying of the vacuum cleaner's bin because the dock does it all for you. And that means no plumes of dust rising from the kitchen bin and coating your nostrils as the contents are ejected from the vac. It also means you won't have to reach for a damp kitchen towel to wipe down the lip of the bin every time you empty the vac's contents.

Instead, you wait a month or two — depending on how grubby your home is — and simply grab the sealed dust bag from the charging dock and drop it into the kitchen bin with no sign of dust at all. Aside from the cleanliness aspect, this is a great system for allergy sufferers because dust is kept to a bare minimum. However, the downside is that you will need to purchase more dust bags down the line and, as of writing, there's no mention of dust bags on the Dyson website. Just as well it comes with a spare.

Let's take a look at the vacuum unit first.

(Image credit: Future)v10 vac design

Confusingly, the Dyson v10 Konical looks more like an evolution of the v8 Cyclone than a successor to the Cyclone v10. Instead of the horizontal inline motor-and-bin arrangement of the Cyclone v10, Dyson has adopted the more compact layout of the v8, with the motor and dustbin mounted vertically just in front of the trigger-less hand grip. It's a design that's noticeably shorter and easier to use with detail tools and, of course, it's much better suited to mounting the unit on its accompanying charging and self-emptying dock.

Interestingly, all three units boast the same suction power, namely 150 air watts. This figure is considerably lower than that of the popular v15 Detect (240AW) and way lower than the Gen5detect (280AW). Nevertheless, suction power isn't everything because the design of the brush head is arguably even more important, which I'll get to in a minute.

The v10 Konical's diminutive proportions make it feel exceptionally nimble. At just 3.60lbs/1.63kg, the hand unit weighs roughly the same as the v10 Cyclone and about 25g heavier than the v8. However, because its center of gravity sits closer to the user's hand, it produces less wrist fatigue when cleaning stairs and upholstery, or reaching into awkward spaces. In fact, I consider this model's weight to be right in the sweet spot for quick shifts around the house just before guests arrive.

(Image credit: Future)

The Dyson Konical's brush head is one of this vac's most distinctive features since it replaces the conventional cylindrical roller with a tapered, conical design that's engineered to minimize hair wrap. Cast from shiny and very tough Polycarbonate-like plastic with stiff nylon bristles for beating dust out of carpet and a row of soft fluffy fibers to help protect delicate hard floors, this brush head is pretty radical but it works wonders on all floor types.

Yes, the tapered front end does make it trickier to run it head-on against skirting boards but then again you're better off using the side of the head and following the contours of the wall when collecting edge dust because there's plenty of suction between the end of the roller and the enclosed edge of the outer casing. However, I should point out that the raised center area of the brush head is taller than other models and that means it won’t go under some low furnishings.

Where most standard rollers use a comb system to mitigate hair wrap, this model's cone-shaped roller ensures that long hair naturally migrates towards the narrower end of the cone, where it's lifted away from the roller and fed directly into the dustbin. A couple of small combs fitted to the rear further help the process. The result is far less time spent cutting tangled hair from the brush, making it particularly useful in homes with shedding long-haired pets like golden retrievers and German shepherds.

(Image credit: Future)

Beyond its anti-tangle credentials, the Konical's unique brush head performs extremely well across a variety of floor types. It transitions smoothly between hard flooring and deep-pile carpets, and sweeps up both fine dust and larger debris with aplomb. The head is also surprisingly maneuverable, pivoting easily around furniture legs and into tighter spaces. And for those who have trouble seeing the state of the floor, this model is equipped with Dyson's laser-like green beam, which illuminates the path ahead in amazing detail, especially on hard floors.

The Dyson V10 Konical's 0.52 qt (0.5 liter) cyclone bin system offers the best of both worlds: it can be emptied manually using Dyson's familiar point-and-shoot mechanism or you can place the vacuum on the Konical Auto-empty Dok and leave it to be automatically emptied into the dock's large disposable dust bag.

(Image credit: Future)

Unlike many earlier Dyson cordless vacuums, the V10 Konical dispenses with the company's long-standing trigger-operated power switch in favor of a simple on/off button. It's a welcome change that eliminates finger fatigue during longer cleaning sessions. Meanwhile, three selectable suction levels — Eco, Medium and Max — allow you to balance cleaning performance against battery life, with the lowest settings suited to everyday dust collection on hard flooring and Max mode reserved for carpets, larger debris and more demanding cleaning tasks.

Rather disappointingly for a modern vac in this high price band, the v10 Konical lacks an automatic dust sensor to boost motor power when moving the head over particularly grubby areas. For that type of scenario you will need to switch to Medium or Max mode manually.

(Image credit: Future)

You get two cleanable HEPA filters with this model, one at the top of the hand unit and the other to the rear. Combined, these filters provide Dyson's "five-stage filtration that captures 99.99% of microscopic particles as small as 0.1 microns". Par for the course.

Regarding this model's battery life, Dyson's states a running time of up to 60 minutes, but this is when it's used in Eco mode on hard floor. However, as my results show in the Performance chapter below, this little cleaning tyke punches way above its weight when it comes to running times. Also, the battery is thankfully swappable so it's worth investing in another if your abode is on the larger side.

As you'd expect for a Dyson product, build quality is exemplary. The plastics feel dense and precisely moulded, every attachment clicks confidently into place and there are no obvious compromises despite the machine's relatively compact dimensions. In the pantheon of compact cordless stick vacs, this one is as close to perfection as it gets.

Score ref: 4.5/5

Dock design

The new Dyson v10 Konical + Auto-empty Dok is an unusual double act in the world of vacuum cleaners because its tall-standing dock not only charges the small and perfectly-formed v10 Konical hand unit, but it also empties the contents of the vac's small bagless bin into a much larger sealed 2.64qt (2.5 liters) dust bag which can be thrown away after a month or two of use. Wahey, no more flicking latches, or plumes of dust wafting into your face every time you visit the kitchen bin.

Before we discuss the technical elements of this dock, let's first address the elephant in the room. At 47.24 x 7 x 6.69i inches (120 x 18 x 17cm) this dock is ridiculously tall and the first inkling you get of its size is when the enormous box arrives on your doorstep — so huge, you may genuinely wonder whether you'd accidentally ordered a build-it-yourself aircraft instead of a simple vacuum cleaner.

After much rummaging through piles of cardboard packaging (no plastics or styrofoam here), I soon had the whole system installed under my stairs — the only space I could find short of rearranging the utility room where it ultimately belongs.

The first thing I noticed is that the dock itself isn't especially heavy, which means you will need to support it with the other hand when pushing the spring-loaded side door to access the two hand tools it comes with: a mini motorized brush and a detail nozzle. There's also a C-clip for holding a third accessory so I raided my Gen5detect collection of tools and attached Dyson's handy soft brush which I think is one of the best tools for cleaning shelves, computer keyboards, etc. Just below is a second cupboard for the Dok's disposable dust bag.

(Image credit: Future)

The Dyson Dok's interface is completely different from those adopted by Roborock and Tineco. With those brands you simply drop the hand unit's bin section into the top of the dock for automatic emptying, charging and storage. Conversely, the design of the v10 Konical's hand unit — and specifically its bin — requires attaching it to the dock from beneath by inserting the battery section into a swing-out portal and pushing the hand unit firmly into the circular suction housing. Granted, it's not as intuitive a mounting system as the Roborock and Tineco method but, despite its height, I think the complete package is more aesthetically pleasing to look at when everything's in situ.

Regarding the bin-emptying process, the moment you push the hand unit into the housing, the suction kicks in and stays on for 30 seconds. You can easily halt the suction process by pressing the red 'stop' button located close by.

(Image credit: Future)

Despite some shortcomings — especially the occasional times when it has failed to empty the v10’s bin because it was too clogged with hair — I've grown to like this new Dyson Dok. Yes, it's very tall but then it's also quite slim and the black colorway means it doesn't stick out like a sore thumb unless placed in a living room against a white wall.

If you have mostly hard floors or carpets that don’t shed fibers, I happen to think it's worth the extra it adds to the cost of purchasing the v10 Konical, mostly because I don't miss the hassle of regularly returning to the kitchen bin to manually empty the contents of the v10's bin or wrestling with a wall-mounted charging bracket.

Score ref: 3.5/5

• Design score: 4/5

Dyson v10 Konical + Auto-empty Dok: performance

• Excellent all-floor vacuum performance
• Genuinely tangle-free roller
• Dock struggles with compacted hair

As usual, for my vacuum tests I selected a range of obstreperous ingredients — oats, muesli, rice, flour and loosely broken cornflakes — and sprinkled them over the wooden floor of my kitchen and a rug in the living room.

From my own robot vacuuming experience I've found that cotton strands from my wife's sewing room are among the worst things for a vacuum cleaner to deal with, so I also scattered some strands of cotton on the carpet to see how effectively the cone-shaped brush head was at clearing them. I also ran a battery test to see how long the v10 Konical ran in Medium mode on carpet before the battery gave up the ghost.

Here are my results…

(Image credit: Future)

The first thing I did was scatter some cotton threads of different lengths over a carpeted rug. Cotton strands are notorious for wrapping around brush heads so I was eager to see how well Dyson's R&D department had nailed this conundrum.

Since the Dyson's Konical head doesn't have thin rubber paddles that tear very easily when tightly wrapped in cotton I was really gunning for a successful outcome and I couldn't have been more amazed by the results because, despite a surfeit of cotton pieces on the carpet, not one of them tangled around the roller. If you have a sewing room this is unequivocally the best vacuum cleaner for you.

(Image credit: Future)

I then proceeded with the detritus tests, first using the aforementioned ingredients on my kitchen floor. I have no anomalies to report here because if deftly collected almost everything in its path in a single sweep. All I had to do was run a few more passes to collect the rest to either side and few quick whizzes along the outer edges to pick up some of the rice that had been inevitably scattered.

(Image credit: Future)

My second test was much the same, only on a rug. Again the v10 Konical collected most of the debris on its first pass followed by a few extra passes to collect the rest. Although not as immediately successful as the hard floor test, it was good enough for me.

I personally think this little vac is a five-star performer when it comes to any type of flooring because I also used it on an old carpet upstairs that sheds a lot of fibers and a very deep-pile shaggy carpet in the guest room. It never bogged down once on the deep pile, even when in Medium mode; something that often occurs with my Gen5detect.

(Image credit: Future)

However, the same level of success can't be said for the Dyson Dok because I've had two instances when the dock’s suction has failed to empty the contents of the hand unit — even after two 30-second attempts. I put this down to the state of my carpets that are shedding a ton of fibers, along with insurmountable levels of labrador hair. On the plus side, the dock has successfully emptied the v10's bin every time it's been used on hard floor and, likewise, both emptying sessions after the above tests. Nevertheless, I still think prospective buyers should be aware if they have a lot of older carpet and shedding pets.

For my battery test I put the v10 Konical into Medium mode – my favorite setting – and set it up on a carpet using the Konical head for maximum brush resistance. I then left it to run until the battery gave out. After an impressive 21 minutes and 30 seconds of continual running, the battery suddenly died, and at no time did I hear anything to suggest that the motor power was fading. It just kept going at the same speed and frequency before suddenly shutting off. That's a resoundingly good result for a compact unit of this weight and size, and I'm pretty convinced it would go on running for the full stated 60 minutes when in Eco mode.

(Image credit: Future)

Final thoughts? While I think the v10 Konical is a sterling lightweight stick vac for both day-to-day and intensive use, the jury's still out on the Dyson Dok, which is not only exceedingly tall and incongruous but not especially functional when faced with large amounts of compacted hair and fibers.

• Performance score: 4/5

Should you buy the Dyson v10 Konical + Auto-empty Dok?Dyson v10 Konical + Auto-empty Dok: score card

Section

Notes

Score

Value for money

Premium price, but the self-emptying dock does add convenience. I just wish it wasn't so tall.

3.5/5

Design

Smartly engineered, v8-inspired styling delivers excellent balance, usability and innovative dust disposal.

4/5

Performance

Powerful cleaning performance with smooth handling, effective suction and impressive anti-tangle technology. But the dock’s nowhere near perfect

4/5

Average rating

4/5

Buy it if

You have shedding pets

The v10 Konical is an excellent cordless stick vac that performs exceptionally well with pet hair

You're not keen on manually emptying a bin

While not 100% effective, the Dyson Dok is still a worthwhile addition for clean, dust-free emptying

You're not as fit as you used to be

The v10 Konical is one of the lightest and easiest-to-use stick vacs on the market

Don't buy it if

You don't have space for a highly visible dock 

The whole package is highly visible and impossible to ignore

You're not very tech minded

The Dok interface adds an extra learning curve for those who are not physics minded

You are on a tight budget

Dyson products are always priced at a premium

How I tested the Dyson v10 Konical + Auto-empty Dok

(Image credit: Future)

We tech journos engage in a lot of rigmarole so you don't have to. Hence, we push the products we test to the limits of their functionality. In the pantheon of cordless stick vacs, this means creating a series of worst-case scenarios to see how well the product performs when faced with more debris than it would normally encounter.

We also test battery running times and evaluate the product's ease of use during day-to-day cleaning scenarios. We then studiously consider the amount of stars the product is worth before sending the review out into the world.

First reviewed August 2026

Turtle Beach PlayTrek 2-in-1 Case for Nintendo Switch 2: review

The Turtle Beach PlayTrek 2-in-1 makes a good first impression. It’s quite sleek for a large Switch 2 carrying case, and also rather stylish. This is thanks to the dark grey color and the surprisingly elegant suede strip that runs around it, offset to the right. It features subtle blue and orange stitching, a nice detail and a nod to the color coding of the Joy-Con 2 controllers.

(Image credit: Future)

The material of the entire unit also impressed me with its ruggedness. The shell of the main compartment feels solid, too, with only a slight amount of flex. As for the detachable travel case on top, I appreciated the small rubber strip that runs along its back edge, as it provides a little more durability and protection when opening it up. What’s more, the entire case is pleasingly light and slender, which is all the more impressive considering what it’s designed to carry.

The zips are similarly well-made, with a reasonably long string and a thin plastic topper that’s easy to grip. However, I did find them a little awkward to open at times, as the lids of both the travel case and main compartment have a tendency to sag inwards, slightly obscuring the teeth. This is a minor issue, though, and not one that’s likely to frustrate.

(Image credit: Future)

It’s quite versatile in terms of storage. As mentioned, and as the name suggests, there are two elements to the PlayTrek 2-in-1. The first is the travel case, which is attached via hook-and-loop fastening. This feels quite strong, so I wasn’t worried about it detaching unintentionally. The case houses the console and up to 14 game cards, courtesy of the elastic slots attached to the screen protector flap. The inner part of the lid features zipped netting for storing other accessories, such as cables and the like. There’s no carrying handle, though, which is an oversight.

The fit for the console is very snug, and the case itself is thin all over with next to no extraneous bulk. This makes it great for tucking into a backpack, like the best Nintendo Switch 2 accessories. However, it isn’t a hard shell; it flexes quite readily, so I wouldn’t be confident stacking anything heavy on top of it.

By contrast, the main compartment feels sturdy. The sides can bend inwards quite easily, but the same isn’t true of its corners, so I wouldn’t be concerned if it were subjected to outward forces.

(Image credit: Future)

Inside there are inserts for the console, the dock, the Joy-Cons, the charger, and a large gamepad, such as the Switch 2 Pro Controller. I managed to fit the GameSir G7 Pro here instead, which is one of the best Nintendo Switch 2 controllers you can buy, with ease. The fit was snug and secure, as it was for all the other parts. Nothing moved out of place when I threw the loaded case up and down and spun it upside down several times.

The mold material is also just about soft enough to prevent scratching or marking the items within. However, during the course of my test, the glue adhering one side of the mold base to the bottom of the case failed, coming loose.

(Image credit: Future)

Obviously this was disappointing, although it’s possible I got unlucky with my particular unit. Regardless, it at least suggests some quality control issues. Despite the failure, I wasn’t too concerned that this would compromise the security of my contents: the other side of the base remained affixed, and since it sits tightly within the compartment, I wouldn’t be worried if all the glue came unstuck.

There are two straps adorning the main compartment. There’s a small carrying handle with a soft neoprene cover that’s very soft and comfortable in the hand. It provides just enough slack, although it's quite tight, which makes it awkward to move out of the way when accessing the main compartment and detaching the travel case; the handle slid out of one of its buckles accidentally on numerous occasions. On the other hand, this tightness does help to pin down the travel case on top, adding an extra layer of security to the hook-and-loop fastening.

(Image credit: Future)

The shoulder strap is a typical affair, with its nylon design and plastic karabiners. It's a small shame these and the buckles aren’t made of metal, but I guess this helps to keep the weight down. Fortunately, the karabiners are very solid, which can make them a little tough to remove, but this is a price I’m willing to pay for the security they offer in return.

The length of the strap is adjustable to a reasonable degree, although it could perhaps offer more slack to more easily accommodate taller users. The padded cover over the adjustment buckle is a little thin and lacks the cushioning of the neoprene carrying handle, but I still found it sufficient to prevent the strap digging into my skin.

At $50, the PlayTrek 2-in-1 is a reasonable price for such a feature-filled carrying case. It also has the quality to match, aside from the aforementioned issue with the inner mold. And since it’s cheaper than Nintendo’s own counterpart, it’s a compelling alternative.

Turtle Beach PlayTrek 2-in-1 Case for Nintendo Switch 2 review: Price & specs

Price

$49.99 / £39.99 (about AU$70)

Dimensions

5.83 x 12.60 x 7.99in / 148 x 320 x 203mm

Weight

1.78lbs / 809g

Number of game card slots

14

Compartments

7

Handle

Yes

Color

Grey

Should I buy the Turtle Beach PlayTrek 2-in-1 Case for Nintendo Switch 2?Scorecard

Attributes

Notes

Rating

Design

Light and bulk-free, while still providing enough protection. The travel case is a bit too soft, though.

4 / 5

Storage

There’s plenty of room for your entire gaming setup, which is all the more impressive given its slender form.

5 / 5

Value

It’s not exactly cheap, but it’s cheaper than Nintendo’s equivalent, yet has more features and storage space.

4.5 / 5

Buy it if…

You want versatility
With its detachable travel case and space for your Switch 2 and its accessories, this really is the all-encompassing solution for transporting your setup.

You want to keep the bulk down
It’s relatively slender and pleasingly light without being too flimsy.

Don't buy it if…

You want a tough travel case
The detachable travel case isn’t as solid as many others, which is a shame.

You want an unfussy handle
The strap handle is awkward to move out of the way when opening the main compartment.

Turtle Beach PlayTrek 2-in-1 Case for Nintendo Switch 2 review: Also consider

Nintendo Switch 2 All-In-One Carrying Case
As Nintendo’s official carrying case, you’d imagine the quality would be high here. And indeed it is, but it’s more expensive than the PlayTrek, yet less solid and with fewer features. There aren’t as many game card slots, and there’s no detachable travel case. Read our full Nintendo Switch 2 All-In-One Carrying Case review.

How I tested the Turtle Beach PlayTrek 2-in-1 Case for Nintendo Switch 2

(Image credit: Future)

I tested this case for a few days, storing the Switch 2 in the travel case compartment, as well as in the main compartment along with the dock, Joy-Cons, and a large controller.

I carried the case around, via both the handle and the shoulder strap, and regularly removed and replaced the handle to test how easy this was. I also tested the zips thoroughly by opening and closing them repeatedly.

I threw the case up and down and spun it upside down several times to test both the hold of the detachable travel case and the hold provided by the inner molds of the main compartment.

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

TP-Link Roam 7: 30-second review

The TP-Link Roam 7 is a compact travel router that lets you connect to whatever internet you can find and turns that into your own private network. This helps reduce the need to reconnect all your devices in each new location; just connect the router and all other devices will connect automatically through it.

The Roam 7 differs from a mobile router insofar as there's no internal SIM or battery; power is supplied through a USB source such as a power bank, and the internet connection comes from a range of available options, including Ethernet at a hotel or business, public Wi-Fi, your phone tethered or a USB modem.

The size and weight are compact, so it’ll fit easily in a backpack or travel bag. The design is simple with a vented front: two fold-down aerials, and a customisable button on the side.

Setup is quick with the mobile Tether app, which lets you use the QR code on the base of the box to complete setup and configure logins. If you want anything more involved then once your device is connected to the router you can access the full web admin at 192.168.0.1.

This is all very clean and while it looks a little dated next to the app, it goes far deeper on the options and settings enabling you to manage the primary and guest networks, assign clients to 2.4GHz or 5GHz, configure Multi-Link Operation so one device takes priority over another, and monitor live CPU and memory usage. Considering this is a travel router, the amount of control is impressive.

There’s also a good level of built-in protection, which is helpful when connecting to public Wi-Fi or hotel networks. While the more advanced protections, including VPNs, are all paid options, there’s a good basic level of security and parental controls built in. The Web interface also gives you a huge amount of options.

Through the test, the one feature that really stood out as I wrote this review was the failover; with the router connected to the Netgear Nighthawk M7 through LAN and public Wi-Fi in a café. The café Wi-Fi was initially good, but as the hour progressed and the place filled, the speed dipped, and the router automatically switched over to the stronger SIM connection.

Overall, this is a well-balanced product that, at the price, offers far more than most, especially that Wi-Fi 7 connection speed. The internal hardware is, however, mid-range, and with only three devices connected, the web admin showed a CPU load of 40-60%. However, as a few more devices were added, the figure remained around the same.

If you work in different locations with multiple devices, then an option like the TP-Link Roam 7 makes absolute sense. Connect the router to the internet, then connect all other devices to it; no need to reconnect each. It offers a balanced set of security features, including VPN support, making it a great solution at a lower price than most mobile routers.

TP-Link Roam 7: Price and availability

• How much does it cost? From $139 / £99
• When is it out? Available now
• Where can you get it? Directly from tp-link and online retailers

(Image credit: Alastair Jennings)

The Roam 7 is available directly from TP-Link here for $139.99 / £99.99. In the US, it's also available for $130 at Amazon (down to $90 at time of review). In the UK, it's priced at £99.99 at Amazon.co.uk. Outside of that, it's widely available from online retailers.

• Value: 4.5 / 5

TP-Link Roam 7: Specs

RAM: 512MB
Rear Ports: One 2.5Gbps WAN, one 1Gbps LAN, one USB-A 3.0, one USB-C power input
Connectivity: Dual-band Wi-Fi 7 at 2.4GHz and 5GHz, Ethernet, public Wi-Fi, USB phone tethering, 3G/4G/5G USB modem
Wireless Speed: 2,882Mbps at 5GHz and 688Mbps at 2.4GHz
VPN: OpenVPN, WireGuard, PPTP and L2TP, client and server
Size: 126 x 93.5 x 36mm
Weight: Approximately 250g
Power: 5V/3A USB-C, no built-in battery
Accessories: Power adapter, Ethernet cable, USB cable, quick-installation guide and Wi-Fi information card

TP-Link Roam 7: Design

(Image credit: Alastair Jennings)

The Roam 7 is a relatively compact black box that measures 126 x 93.5 x 36mm and weighs in at 250g. It features a large front vent and two aerials that fold flat against the sides when transporting. One thing to note about the design is that it’s noticeably larger than a pocket hotspot but still small enough to slip into a backpack or bag easily.

It’s also worth noting that while the Roam 7 is relatively small, it requires a power supply, and an AC plug is included in the box; alternatively, you can plug it into a power bank, and in this review I’ve used the Ugreen 145W. On top of the power supply, you’ll also need a way to connect the router to the internet, and this is where the clever bit of this device comes into play.

You can either connect directly to a WAN or LAN via the two ports at the back, hardwire a phone via a USB cable and piggyback off the phone's cellular network or use it as a pass-through for a Wi-Fi network, say, if you’re in a café.

(Image credit: Alastair Jennings)

Once plugged in, a simple status LED on the front illuminates to indicate connections or activity. While the design is simple, with most options and settings being controlled through the app or web interface, there is a physical toggle button on the side that can be configured to control power, the status LED, or the VPN connection.

The rear panel houses all the connections: a 2.5 Gbps WAN port, a 1 Gbps LAN port, USB-A 3.0 for storage or tethering, and USB-C for power.

As this is a travel router, it would have been great to see a carry case supplied as well. Unfortunately, aside from the power supply, USB-C-to-USB-A adapter, and network cable, there are no other accessories.

• Design: 4.5 / 5

TP-Link Roam 7: Features

(Image credit: Alastair Jennings)

Taking a look at the feature set, it really highlights how the Roam 7 differs from a standard router or mobile router. In the case of the first, the compact size and weight mean it can be taken anywhere, and the build and design are robust and highly portable, with power supplied via USB-C rather than the standard barrel-style connector to mains power, which is more common.

Unlike a mobile router, it has no built-in battery or SIM card, so it relies on other devices for both. I’ll come on to why this can be a great option in the performance section.

The Roam supports dual-band BE3600 Wi-Fi 7 with Multi-Link Operation, 4K-QAM, and four wireless streams, rated at 2,882 Mbps on 5GHz and 688 Mbps on 2.4GHz. Those are link rates rather than throughput figures, and there is no 6GHz band, so this is Wi-Fi 7 in its dual-band form rather than the full tri-band specification.

Looking through the different operating modes, there are seven in total: cover router, hotspot or WISP, USB tethering, USB modem, access point, range extender and client. Switching between Ethernet, USB tethering, USB modem, and hotspot occurs through the web interface, and in testing, it took around 45-50 seconds to switch between each. USB tethering to an iPhone was slower, occasionally up to a minute, but on Android it was far faster.

One of the modes I was pleased to see was Failover, as it lets you connect to a mobile router and a tethered phone at the same time, and the Roam 7 prioritises whichever provides the better connection.

There’s also VPN support for major brands, including OpenVPN, WireGuard, PPTP, and L2TP, as both client and server. A VPN connection can run alongside ordinary traffic rather than being on all the time; the physical switch on the side can be allocated as a quick on/off for the VPN, so for general browsing you can switch it off, and for financials, shopping, etc you can switch it on for that additional protection.

The device management is also well thought out, with two options tailored to the type of user, or you can switch between them, as I find myself doing. For most people, the Tether app, which enables initial setup via a QR code, provides access to most of the settings.

During the test, there were a couple of occasions when I was unable to find the settings I wanted through the mobile app, such as assigning the connection type. The Web Admin, however, made this easy and offered a more traditional approach to router and network settings along with many advanced options, including what I was looking for, which was an easy way to switch between inputs.

The web admin panel can be located once you have connected to the router through 192.168.0.1 in your browser, and once you log in, you have all the primary and guest network management, assigning clients between 2.4GHz and 5GHz, Multi-Link Operation configuration to give one device priority over another, and a live view of CPU and memory load, which is interesting especially as more devices connect.

The best way to look at the two options is that the app is for consumers and the web client is for businesses, so actually having both is a good balance.

Another point about this router is that, as it doesn’t have its own power source, it will be a drain on whatever it’s plugged into. However, a check of the power usage shows it is extremely low at less than 4W; still, TP-Link do offer three power modes. Boost is the default and the option I used in the test to maximise performance; below it are Balance and Eco for managing speed, heat, and power draw. The MLO mode that I mentioned earlier will increase power use, but again, this power usage is extremely well managed.

Alongside the hardware admin, there’s a good level of software support, including HomeShield, which adds a network scanner, parental controls, and device-level quality of service. For each of these features, there is a Free tier, but the more robust parental controls and Security+ features require a paid subscription.

• Features: 4 / 5

TP-Link Roam 7: Performance

(Image credit: Alastair Jennings)Benchmarks

Boot time: 1 minute 52 seconds, plus roughly a further minute to connect a client and get online
Time to internet from cold, MacBook Air M3: 2-3 minutes
Mode switching time: 45 seconds; up to 1 minute when switching to iPhone USB tethering
Power consumption, three clients connected: 3.8W with MacBook Pro, iPad and iPhone attached
Router load, three devices connected: CPU 40-60%, memory steady at around 50%

Throughput over a public café connection
One device: 87.3Mbps down / 98.5Mbps up
Two devices, device 1: 46.6Mbps down / 101.8Mbps up
Two devices, device 2: 61.3Mbps down / 27.3Mbps up
Three devices, device 1: 11.5Mbps down / 9.08Mbps up
Three devices, device 2: 75.4Mbps down / 44.4Mbps up
Three devices, device 3: 17.0Mbps down / 72.5Mbps up

These figures measure results via the cafe’s internet connection through the router, not the router's own wireless capability. The three-device total of 103.9 Mbps down exceeds the single-device figure of 87.3 Mbps, highlighting the influx of people into the cafe and the effect on bandwidth.

Initial setup is relatively straightforward, as there’s nothing to install. Or charge. Once unboxed, the AC adapter of a power bank can be plugged in, and the front light glows orange. You then go to the Tether Mobile App, scan the QR code, complete the rest of the process, and you’re set.

After that initial setup, I took the Roam 7 to a café, plugged it into a power bank, joined the venue's Wi-Fi via the Tether app, connected my MacBook to the router's network, and enabled the VPN. The whole sequence took between two and three minutes depending on the connection type and strength. It required no laptop configuration at all, having already connected to the router at home; likewise, the same for the connection to my phone and iPad, which were all previously connected.

One issue that struck me early on was the number of wires and gadgets I had suddenly accumulated around the MacBook; I had my phone, the power bank, and the router all connected along with wires. While it didn’t take up a huge amount of space, it was more than I’m used to.

One point about the connection speeds is that the public Wi-Fi connection was faster than connection tethered through my mobile phone. During testing on location, the 4G connection showed as full, however connected to the Wi-Fi without a VPN, I saw speeds of around 150 Mbps, down to around 120 Mbps with VPN on.

Through a series of checks to see how long it takes to connect in the café location from cold, it I found it took just under two minutes to boot, and connecting and getting the computer online added another minute. There’s also time to unpack the three devices you need to make that connection: the router, the power bank, and the mobile device.

The average connection time in the test was just under three minutes from nothing to a working connection on a public Wi-Fi network. OK, it’s faster to connect directly, but a public Wi-Fi, isn’t secure and the cost saving of the Roam 7 compared with a mobile router is huge.

Through the test, I was interested to see how long it would take to switch between connection types, say, from Wi-Fi to a tethered mobile connection. To do this you need to dip into the web interface, not the app, and the switchover took around 45-50 seconds.

As highlighted, there is no internal power, so the draw from the host machine is an important factor for travel, and surprisingly it’s very low. With a MacBook Pro, an iPad and an iPhone all connected, the router pulled 3.8W. This is really nothing, and my 145W power bank essentially ran through a working day without issue. It was also good that I was able to set up a local network, and the colleagues were also able to connect as guests, again all easily set up through the web interface.

For the most part, I was piggybacking off the wireless network in the café, and, interestingly, a single device connected, I saw 87.3 Mbps down and 98.5 Mbps up. With three connected, the individual figures ranged from 11.5 Mbps to 75.4 Mbps down, but their combined total came to 103.9 Mbps, more than that first single device. The issue is that the café's internet is open to the public, so there will be some fluctuation due to other users.

Internet speed is part of the picture, especially as more devices connect. One of the features I liked was that, through the web admin, you can see live CPU and memory usage. With only three devices connected, CPU load averaged 40-60%, while memory sat at around 50% of the installed 512 MB.

TP-Link states that it supports up to 90 devices, which I think may be a little bit hopeful. Still, for the three I had connected during the test, all checking the internet speed, then watching a 4K YouTube video and uploading files to an ftp this speed generally felt stable and fast.

A travel router like this has a very focused job and won't be for everyone; however, if you connect multiple devices to an internet connection away from home and need something lightweight and portable, this is a great solution that balances features, performance, and cost.

• Performance: 4 / 5

TP-Link Roam 7: Final verdict

(Image credit: Alastair Jennings)

At first it may be difficult to see why you would want the Roam 7 over just connecting directly to your mobile phone or the public Wi-Fi. But then, in the workplace, where you may have multiple devices you use while travelling, or you’re dubious about using public Wi-Fi, this well-priced travel router makes sense.

Setup is easy, and whatever connection mode you use, once you’ve run through the process a few times, it all makes sense. Essentially, arrive, plug in, order a coffee, and by the time you’ve unpacked and set up your computer you’ll be ready to go.

Overall, the connection seemed robust, especially with the failover. While the router can only be as good as the local connections, the test proved it was a solid option, switching from mobile to Wi-Fi to enable the fastest connection without issue.

I had to ask: with mobile routers also available, who is this best for? The Roam 7 is an ideal solution if you travel and use multiple devices. It essentially lets you connect all devices to it, and you just need to connect it to an internet connection. When you arrive at your destination, you connect to the router, and everything else follows suit, without you needing to log in to every device individually.

While you can do this with your mobile, the added network features and the ability to turn your phone into a mobile router are definitely appealing and much cheaper than a dedicated mobile router.

Then there’s the price, which at a fraction of dedicated mobile routers and with all the additional features suddenly makes this very appealing as an option to use anywhere, be that travelling or in a location that you just want to set up a private network, such as in an office, studio or workshop where a separate network can be useful.

Should I buy a TP-Link Roam 7?

(Image credit: Alastair Jennings)

Value

Excellent value at around £90, although you’ll need power and internet connection in addition

4.5/5

Design

Compact, design perfect for slipping into a backpack, though no case is supplied

4.5/5

Features

Seven modes, including full VPN support, storage sharing and decent web admin 

4/5

Performance

Quick to set up and low power consumption, balanced by the mid-range hardware

4/5

Overall

A flexible, business travel router that will keep you connected and safe as you travel 

4/5

Buy it if...

You travel with several devices.

No need to log in with multiple devices to hotels, airports, cafés and other open networks; connect the router and then all devices through the router, far easier.

You need to work from wherever you land.

With a range of connection options and VPN support, you can connect to the internet, public Wi-Fi, phone tethering, and USB modems, all of which can feed into the same private network.

Don't buy it if...

You want maximum range and speed.

A full-size home router will offer far better long-distance signal and speed; the Roam 7 is designed for smaller areas.

You want an all-in-one.

To get this to work, you need extras, and at the basic level that’s your mobile and a power bank. So while the device is small, the mound of tech you need can quickly accumulate.

For more connectivity solutions, we've reviewed the best Wi-Fi routers.

RingConn Gen 3: One minute review

RingConn has always been a solid challenger to Oura in the smart ring space, and after spending two weeks testing it, I can safely say the new RingConn Gen 3 continues that trend. You’ll get most of the same health, sleep and recovery tracking features as rivals in our best smart rings guide here, but without the monthly subscription that puts some people off buying a smart ring altogether.

The Gen 3 tracks heart rate, heart rate variability (HRV), blood oxygen levels, skin temperature, respiratory rate, stress, activity and sleep. New additions include a haptic motor for some alerts and reminders, improved battery life and new vascular health trend insights, which are designed to give you a picture of your cardiovascular wellbeing over time.

However, this version does feel similar to the Gen 2 that came before it. The design and app experience feel largely unchanged and many of the core features will already be familiar to anyone thinking of upgrading from a RingConn Gen 2.

Although that's not necessarily a bad thing. The lightweight titanium design is still incredibly comfortable to wear and the app is simple to navigate. RingConn also continues to stand out by offering useful features like sleep apnea monitoring, something that still isn't standard across the smart ring market.

(Image credit: Future)

The experience here isn't perfect. During my testing, I found that some health insights can feel generic, certain wellness scores lack meaningful context and some of the messaging around features like vascular insight trends can be confusing. And, while the app is clean and easy to use, it still doesn't feel quite as refined or polished as Oura's.

But RingConn continues to occupy a compelling middle ground. It isn't the cheapest smart ring you can buy, but it undercuts premium competitors while delivering a similar experience overall.

The RingConn Gen 3 may not be the most exciting smart ring launch of the year, but for anyone looking for comprehensive health tracking without an ongoing subscription, it's shaping up to be one of the easiest smart rings for me to recommend.

RingConn Gen 3: Specifications

Component

RingConn Gen 3

Price

$426 (silver, gold, matte black) / $454 (brushed silver and brushed rose gold); £322 / £343 (approx)

Dimensions

2.3mm thick

Weight

2.5g to 3.5g (depending on size)

Finish

Silver, gold, matte black, brushed silver, brushed rose gold

Sizes

6 to 15

Material

Titanium body, medical-grade epoxy interior with a PVD coating

Battery life

10 to 12 days (with vibration on), 11 to 14 days (with vibration off)

Sensors

Optical Heart Rate Sensor, Temperature Sensor, 3-Axis Accelerometer and Vibration Feedback Motor

Connection

Bluetooth 5.0

Water resistance

IP68 / 10ATM

(Image credit: Future)RingConn Gen 3: Price and availability

• Priced at $426 / $454; £322 / £343 (approx)
• Rolled out from late May 2026
• No subscription needed

Pricing starts at $426 for the silver, gold and matte black versions. That rises to $454 if you’d like the new brushed silver and brushed rose gold finishes.

I only tested the standard silver, but the brushed effect is really appealing. At least what I can see from promo shots, it makes the ring look a little more refined and if I was buying one myself I’d probably pay extra for that finish.

UK pricing hasn’t yet been confirmed at the time of writing, but that US pricing works out at approximately £322 to £343, depending on the finish you choose.

That places the RingConn Gen 3 firmly in the premium smart ring category. It's not cheap by any means. You can now find more affordable smart rings, like the Circular Ring 2, which starts at $349 / £280 / AU$497.

However, it still manages to undercut some of its biggest competitors, making a tempting value proposition. For context, the new Oura Ring 5 starts from £399. Which, granted, isn’t that much more expensive. But you do need to factor in the ongoing monthly subscription, which you’ll need to unlock all of the Oura’s features. That costs $5.99 / £5.99 per month. So paid monthly, that’s around an additional $70 / £70 per year.

What makes RingConn stand out is that there are no subscription fees here. Once you've bought the ring, you get access to all of the core health and wellness features without any additional monthly costs.

It’s worth mentioning that other smart ring brands are offering their devices without a monthly subscription too. And the gap between RingConn and its premium competitors isn't quite as large as it once was, especially as smart ring prices continue to rise across the board. But when you factor in the lack of subscription fees and the breadth of features on offer, the RingConn Gen 3 still represents good value.

• Value score: 4/5

(Image credit: Future)RingConn Gen 3: Design

• Lightweight and comfortable design
• Distinctive squared circle shape
• New finishes and expanded sizing options

The first thing you'll notice about the RingConn Gen 3 when you take it out of the box is its unusual shape. Rather than being perfectly round, it has a subtle squared-off design. It looks a little unusual at first, but I really liked it. Plus it seemed like a refreshing choice in a market where so many smart rings are almost indistinguishable from each other.

At between 2.5g and 3.5g depending on which size you get, and measuring 2.3mm thick, the ring is light and discreet enough to forget you're wearing it. I wore it day and night when I was testing it, including while sleeping, without any issues.

That weight and thickness are both fairly standard compared to other smart rings. The only notable exception is the new Oura Ring 5, which has been designed to be slimmer and lighter than previous generations and almost all rivals.

The Gen 3 ring is made from titanium with a medical-grade resin interior and is rated IP68 and 10ATM for water resistance. In practical terms, that means you can wear it in the shower, while swimming and during workouts without worrying about taking it off. During testing, I rarely had to think about removing it, whether I was washing up, showering or exercising — though I did remove it when lifting weights to avoid any scratching.

RingConn has also expanded its sizing range this time around, now offering up to size 15. Many competing brands don't go beyond size 14. One thing to be aware of here is that RingConn says the Gen 3 sizing may differ slightly from standard ring sizing and other smart rings. Which means it may be worth using the sizing kit first just to be safe. Although I tested my usual size without any issues.

There are several new finishes available, including brushed silver and brushed rose gold. I tested the glossy silver model, which held up surprisingly well during testing. After more than a week of daily wear, there were no visible scuffs or scratches, even on close inspection.

That's really notable because when I’ve tested many smart rings in the past I've found that some finishes, particularly matte black ones, can start showing signs of wear after only a few days.

That said, if I were buying this ring myself rather than reviewing it, I'd probably choose one of the new brushed finishes, even though they cost a little more. After years of testing smart rings, I've come to think that the super glossy finishes are often what make them look like gadgets rather than jewellery. So if making sure a smart ring blends in is important to you, the brushed options are probably worth considering.

My only real criticism is that there isn't an obvious external marker showing which way round the ring should be worn. That's really nit-picking, but it's something some competitors have added. While it's easy enough to identify the correct orientation from the sensor placement inside the ring, a small external indicator, like a tiny notch, would make it quicker and easier to position correctly for the most accurate readings.

The charging case is handy. It's compact, easy to throw into a bag and feels more refined than previous versions. Unlike some competitors, it's also not tied to a specific ring size, which might be useful for you if you know someone else who has a RingConn ring.

• Design Score: 4/5

RingConn Gen 3: Features

(Image credit: Future)

• Subtle haptic alerts
• Comprehensive health and wellness tracking
• Sleep apnea monitoring and vascular insights

You’ll find all of the health and wellness features you'd expect from a premium smart ring here. The Gen 3 continuously tracks heart rate, heart rate variability (HRV), blood oxygen saturation (SpO2), respiratory rate, skin temperature, stress, activity levels and sleep. There's also menstrual tracking and a Baby Prep mode to support ovulation prediction.

Alongside these core features, RingConn offers a few more advanced tools that are designed to help it stand out from rivals. One of the most useful is sleep apnea monitoring. Once enabled, it monitors for the core signs of sleep apnea and provides short-term risk indicators alongside longer-term trends.

Like any wearable health feature, it's not designed to diagnose a medical condition. But I think it could be useful if you're concerned about your sleep quality or breathing patterns and want some additional information before you speak to a doctor.

New for the Gen 3 is a built-in haptic motor, which means the ring can now vibrate for health alerts, inactivity reminders and low-battery warnings.

At first, I was conflicted about this addition. Part of the appeal of smart rings for me is that they collect data in the background without demanding attention in the way a smartwatch can. Fortunately, RingConn has taken a restrained approach. The vibrations are subtle, focused on health-related notifications rather than phone alerts and can be disabled entirely if you'd prefer that.

Another notable addition is RingConn's vascular health tracking. Rather than attempting to estimate blood pressure directly, the feature combines overnight vascular load data with blood pressure readings and lifestyle information to provide longer-term cardiovascular insights.

To use it, you'll need to periodically enter blood pressure readings from a traditional blood pressure cuff. Initially, I wasn't convinced of the value of this feature. Wouldn’t you just use a cuff instead of the ring if you have one? But it became clear during testing that the goal here isn't to replace a blood pressure monitor. Instead, it's designed to help identify broader patterns over time.

One reason for the confusion is likely that in the app this section is labelled as 'blood pressure trends', which RingConn tells me is out-of-date copy and will be changed to 'vascular insights' soon to make it clear this isn't just a blood pressure reading feature.

Because the data you get here is about circulation stress tracking, which RingConn describes as a measure of how effectively your body moves between activity and recovery. Results are then also broken down into areas such as day-night rhythm, sleep breathing, post-exercise recovery and stress response.

The insights aren't especially deep, and if anything is flagged you'll need to go and search for what it means, but they're among the most detailed explanations available in the RingConn app and provide useful context without becoming overwhelming.

• Features Score: 4/5

(Image credit: Future)RingConn Gen 3: Performance

• Clean, easy-to-use app
• Excellent battery life
• Strong sleep and wellness tracking

As with any smart ring, the Gen 3 relies heavily on its app, and RingConn gets a lot right here. While it doesn't feel quite as polished as Oura's software, I found it easy to navigate through the different menus. I also liked the flower-like Wellness Balance graphic at the top of the dashboard, which provides a quick visual snapshot of your overall health.

The app makes it easy to check key metrics at a glance, while more detailed charts, historical trends and explanations are there if you click through into each dedicated section, including sleep, activity and stress. Stress tracking was a particular highlight, making it easy to spot recurring patterns and periods of higher pressure throughout the day.

Some of the written insights can feel a little generic though, as daily summaries occasionally surfaced observations that felt obvious or lacked enough context to be genuinely useful. Sleep insights tended to be more helpful, with more detailed explanations and recommendations.

Sleep tracking is one of RingConn's strongest areas. The app presents sleep duration, efficiency, stages, overnight heart rate and movement data clearly without overwhelming you with information. During testing, it also handled my occasionally unusual sleep schedule surprisingly well, which meant that on nights when I woke up for an hour in the early morning before falling back asleep, RingConn correctly identified this as a brief 'awake' period rather than ending the sleep session entirely.

In terms of accuracy, I wore the RingConn Gen 3 alongside a Whoop 5.0. The two devices produced very similar results. Whoop measured a 84% sleep performance, 6 hours and 31 minutes of sleep and a 49bpm average overnight heart rate. RingConn gave me a 77 sleep score, recorded 6 hours and16 minutes of sleep with a 48bpm average overnight heart rate

Sleep stage breakdowns also aligned closely, with only minor differences in deep and REM sleep estimates. No wearable tracks sleep perfectly, but the results were broadly consistent.

I also appreciated how RingConn handles unusual readings. Rather than generating alarming warnings whenever a metric moves outside of its normal range, the app generally presents changes with reasonable context. I'd still like more explanation in some areas, particularly when a metric is flagged. I was often felt feeling a little frustrated at the lack of context and additional information as to why a reading deviated and what that really means. But the overall approach feels useful and sensible.

Sleep apnea monitoring is well implemented here. The feature presents trends clearly, includes some useful explanations and feels more mature than some of the app's other health insights. It's worth noting though that monitoring won't function properly once battery levels drop below 30%.

Exercise tracking is more basic than what you'll get from a dedicated sports watch, although that's true of most smart rings. During testing, the ring automatically detected walking, running and strength-training sessions without requiring manual input. You just need to acknowledge it’s identified your activity correctly and there are a wide range to choose from.

In the activity section you’ll find useful information like activity intensity, active time, calories burned and step count, which should be enough for most users.

Step tracking was accurate, although RingConn did seem to slightly under report compared to other devices. On one test day it recorded 5,167 steps versus 5,500 on the Whoop, a pattern I noticed in a few other comparisons.

Battery life is still one of RingConn's biggest strengths. The company claims between 11 and 14 days per charge, and in my testing the ring lasted nearly 12.5 days with both vascular insights and haptic alerts enabled.

That comfortably exceeds most rivals these days. For comparison, the Oura Ring 5 offers up to 7 days, the Samsung Galaxy Ring up to 7 days, while the Ultrahuman Ring Air and Circular Ring 2 both offer around 6 days.

For me, this is one of the RingConn's biggest selling points. The less often you need to remove a wearable for charging, the more likely you are to wear it consistently and collect uninterrupted data. RingConn also displays both remaining battery percentage and an estimate of days remaining in the map, which is a small but useful touch.

Overall, the RingConn Gen 3 delivers a strong experience. The app isn't quite as refined as Oura's, and some insights could go further, but the combination of comprehensive health tracking, clear data presentation, excellent battery life and a subscription-free model makes it one of the most compelling smart rings currently available.

• Performance score: 4/5

(Image credit: Future)RingConn Gen 3: Scorecard

Category

Comment

Score

Value

There's no subscription and it undercuts major rivals. But not by all that much.

3.5/5

Design

It's lightweight, comfortable and has a non-standard squared circle design. Nice glossy finish with several more available in this version too. There's no wearing indicator and sizing might differ this time around.

4.5/5

Features

A solid set of health and wellbeing features. Vascular insights are welcome, though not intuitive to use — you'll need a separate cuff. Otherwise, it is pretty similar to the Gen 2 that came before it.

4/5

Performance

Solid insights presented simply in the app. Which is a little less refined than rivals, but easy to use. The battery life is standout and I found myself really engaging with the data rather than forgetting to check — a testament to a solid experience.

4/5

RingConn Gen 3: Should I buy?Buy it if...

You don't want to pay a subscription
All of the features on offer here are free, which sets it apart from rivals like Oura that charge a monthly fee.

You want a light and comfortable smart ring
It's very easy to wear, even at night. And despite reported changes to sizing, I got the size I usually wear with no issues.

You want general health insights
Look, smart rings are not the last word in fitness tracking. There's some of it here but they're best at general health insights and an overall picture of your wellbeing.

Don't buy it if...

You have the Gen 2 or Air
Yes, there are some significant improvements here, but not everyone would be able to justify an upgrade. It depends whether the changes are a priority for you.

You want to save money
Compared to rivals, it's solid value. But there are now cheaper options that might not beat the RingConn Gen 3, but do the basics well.

You're considering Oura
As you'll learn below, Oura is pricier with a monthly subscription. But it is an elevated experience over RingConn in most ways.

Also consider

Oura Ring 5

The Oura Ring 5 is here and it's one of the best choices out there, especially now the latest version is even slimmer than previous iterations. We rated its improved design and comfort in our recent review. Yes, it's more expensive than the RingConn Gen 3 and you'll need to add on the recurring monthly subscription. But if it's the most advanced smart ring you're after and you're willing to pay for it, take a look at the Oura Ring 5 instead.

Read our full Oura Ring 5 reviewView Deal

RingConn Gen 2

I know, I know. This is the older model, but it's been significantly reduced now the Gen 3 is here. Which makes it even better value. Granted, you're not getting the improved battery life, extra finish options, upgraded tracking and vascular insights. But if saving money is a priority, you find a good bargain and you don't need the latest tech, it's a solid choice in my books.

Read our full RingConn Gen 2 reviewView Deal

How I tested

(Image credit: Future)

I tested the Ringconn Gen 3 for just over 2 weeks. I wore it all day and all night, only taking it off to either charge it or lift weights — I've learned many times in the past that smart rings are very easy to scratch with metal dumbbells. The smart ring was on throughout workouts, while I was working, out socializing, relaxing on an evening and sleeping at night.

I've been reviewing smart rings since the very first version of the Oura ring came out back in 2017. Since then, I've tested almost every generation from every smart ring brand that came after it. This puts me in a solid position to not only test the newest rings, but compare the models, tell you which one might be right for you and bring you loads of context about the smart ring space.

• First reviewed: June 2026

After falling in love with Disneyland Handcrafted, I was excited to dive into the studio's latest documentary movie, Disney Worldbuilders. Directed by Leslie Iwerks, the new movie has a tiny runtime of 58 minutes and call me greedy, but I really wanted more.

Disney Worldbuilders gets up-close-and-personal with some of Disney's most influential voices, where we learn about creative processes and their lasting impact on both cinema and the Disney Parks around the world.

Even though I loved what I saw, I did feel as though Worldbuilders tries to squeeze too much into its runtime. Unlike Handcrafted, which solely focuses on Walt's vision for Disneyland in Anaheim, this jumps around between subjects, and I wish we'd had an episode for each person interviewed so we could've taken a deeper dive.

The stacked line-up is made up of Bob Iger, James Cameron, Jon Favreau, Kevin Feige, Jennifer Lee, Pete Docter, Dave Filoni, Jared Bush, and Josh D’Amaro. That's a lot of people to talk to in under an hour, so I really wish we'd had more time with all of them!

Bob Iger in particular deserves a documentary of his own, and I hope we get one so we can properly examine the huge impact he's had on the Walt Disney Company, because it's not to be sniffed at. His segments didn't seem to fit with the rest of the interviews.

Still, that doesn't mean Worldbuilders is not worth your time. Far from it, in fact; I think it gives some really valuable and inspiring insights from some of the biggest names across Disney properties like Pixar, Star Wars, and Marvel, and it's hard not to smile when you're greeted with this footage.

Jennifer Lee and her sister have an emotional scene in Disney Worldbuilders. (Image credit: Disney)

The scale of the Disney Parks really is fascinating, and I liked how we were able to see the early days of areas such as Hollywood Studios' Galaxy's Edge and Animal Kingdom’s Pandora, especially how the directors of those movies responded to seeing their creations come to life. Now, fans get to walk through the worlds we see on screen, and the constant innovation going on across the global parks is jaw-dropping.

I found myself getting emotional during certain parts, particularly Jennifer Lee's reaction to World of Frozen at Disneyland Paris. Seeing her wandering around with Olaf and reflecting on her relationship with her sister is incredibly touching, given how Anna and Elsa are such inspirational figures to a lot of people out there.

Even though the interviews with each subject are short, we do get a lot of heartfelt anecdotes which I found to be very interesting. As someone who has been enamored with filmmaking from a young age, it's inspiring to see how these amazing creatives can help shape future attractions for all ages. In Worldbuilders, they reflect on their own childhoods and how they ended up working for one of the biggest media companies in the world.

Ultimately, this would have worked so much better in an episodic format because I could have happily watched eight hours of this, as opposed to the one hour we did get. I am hopeful that Disney will do more long-form Parks-focused documentaries like this, especially ones that talk to the creatives responsible for writing these worlds we know and love.

Disney Worldbuilders comes to Disney+ on August 20. While you wait, why not check out the best Disney+ movies and best Disney+ TV shows to stream right now.

Gulikit KK3 Max: One-minute review

The GuliKit KK3 Max might look like a standard controller, but it has plenty of extras and features on board.

Adopting the familiar form of the Xbox’s gamepad, the KK3 Max doesn’t exactly push the boundaries in terms of design. But given how comfortable and convenient the shape and layout are, it’s hard to complain about its lack of originality.

There are also a few extra flourishes that add some interest. The matte white finish of my review unit was rather fetching, while the front panel is incredibly smooth, smoother than any other I’ve felt before. Its construction also feels quite solid, rivaling the builds of the best PC controllers.

This premium feel extends to the buttons, since there’s very little wobble to any of them. The same can be said of the various sets of levers for the four back buttons, although a fair amount of force is required to insert them.

(Image credit: Future)

Despite the lack of software, there are still plenty of input-related customizations and settings available via various button combinations. These range from basic adjustments, such as the vibration intensity and stick sensitivity, to more advanced features, such as motion control and macro recording.

The overall performance of the KK3 Max is pretty good. Most of the buttons are responsive and satisfying to press. The triggers offer a fair amount of control, although I found their travel distance a little too short for my preferences. The sticks also lack the precision of the best, although they move easily and quickly. Motion controls are also inconsistent: I found they performed well with Nintendo Switch games, but were less effective on PC and mobile titles.

I’m happy to report that I had no issues with connectivity on any system I tried the KK3 Max with. Whether it was to my PC via the USB dongle or to my Switch and Android tablet via Bluetooth, the KK3 Max connected quickly to them all and I didn’t experience any dropouts or lag. Hotswitching between devices is also easy thanks to the dedicated button for this purpose, although it can take several presses for the button to respond.

The current multiplatform controller market is certainly a competitive one, with an increasing number of entrants offering increasingly better value. At $79.99 / £65.99 / AU$113.95, the KK3 Max is dangerously close in price to some real standouts, such as the Steam Controller and the GameSir G7 Pro 8K, and more expensive than the 8BitDo Pro 3, another highly capable controller. It mightn’t quite match up to its cohort, but the KK3 Max is still a gamepad to consider if you prefer onboard adjustments and like to have plenty of back buttons.

(Image credit: Future)Gulikit KK3 Max review: Price & availability

• $79.99 / £65.99 / AU$113.95
• Available now in various colorways
• Premium pricing puts it against big hitters

The GuliKit KK3 Max costs $79.99 / £65.99 / AU$113.95 and is available now from Amazon. Three colorways are available: black, white, and grey.

This pricing places the KK3 Max at the premium end of the market. It comes close to some big names in this space, such as the new Steam Controller. This has the advantage of touchpads for controlling the mouse cursor, and we found its gyroscope controls performed very well, unlike the KK3 Max’s. It isn’t compatible with the Switch or Switch 2, though.

The KK3 Max is also more expensive than the 8BitDo Pro 3, which has class-leading performance. We particularly loved its smooth analog sticks and triggers, as well as its phenomenal D-pad. It’s very customizable, too, thanks to its accompanying software — something the KK3 Max lacks.

Gulikit KK3 Max review: Specs

Gulikit KK3 Max

Price

$79.99 / £65.99 / AU$113.95

Weight

9.7oz / 275g

Dimensions

6 x 4.3 x 1.3in / 154.7 x 108.1 x 32.4mm

Compatibility

PC, Switch, Switch 2, Android, iOS

Connection type

Wireless (2.4GHz, Bluetooth), Wired (USB-C)

Battery life

15-28 hours

(Image credit: Future)Gulikit KK3 Max review: Design and features

• Super smooth surface
• No extra D-pad hats or stick caps
• No software

The KK3 Max has a simple and conventional design, replicating the form and layout of the best Xbox controllers. This is no bad thing, though, since such gamepads are among the most ergonomic and comfortable out there. Along with many others, I’m also particularly fond of the asymmetric analog sticks, since this moves the D-pad to a position that makes it easier to use with either thumb.

What may prove more divisive, however, is the relatively small size of the entire unit. I don’t have particularly large hands, but both my thumbs and forefingers tended to overhang the sticks and triggers respectively. I was able to adjust my grip to compensate without sacrificing comfort or security, but others might find this more of a problem.

There are some extra touches to the KK3 Max’s design that set it apart from the crowd. The brilliant white matte finish of my review unit is quite eye-catching, as is the subtle yet effective RGB lighting around the sticks, which also has a practical function that I’ll come to later.

(Image credit: Future)

The front plate is incredibly smooth to the touch, smoother than any other controller I’ve experienced. However, this plate isn’t magnetically attached as it is on other gamepads, allowing for easy removal for the sake of customization and reordering or replacing buttons.

You can still remove the KK3 Max’s face buttons — you’ll just need to use the included puller to do so, which is thankfully easy to use. You can’t directly swap the X with the Y button or the A with the B, though, since they have different depths and curvatures. Rather, duplicates of each button are included in the box with the appropriate depth and curvature for swapping their position. This seems like a rather inefficient solution to me, and just means you have more bits of plastic in your life than you otherwise would.

I can’t complain about their quality, though. They’re pleasantly smooth and stable, with only a marginal amount of play, while their transparent design is quite fetching. The D-pad also feels stable, although it’s a shame you can't replace the hat, as different designs can make a real difference to feel and performance, and would cater to more preferences. Fortunately, I found it quite ergonomic; even though it adopts the traditional four-point shape, its rounded edges make it better for rolling between directions.

(Image credit: Future)

The triggers are also comfortable. They have rounded outside edges, which makes them soft on the finger, as well as a dotted texture to provide grip. The analog stick caps are reasonably small but have an ergonomic shape and a soft finish. Their edges are slightly textured, although this is less prominent than other examples, so those with sweaty thumbs might slip off them. They are removable, but GuliKit doesn’t provide any extra sets in the box, which is a shame. The sticks themselves are quite tall and suitably planted, with a negligible amount of play.

More solid are the back button levers. Despite how they look, they’re not made from metal, but they are reassuringly sturdy. They actually require a fair amount of force to insert in their slots, but once in place, I felt pretty confident that they weren’t going to come loose. They come in different shapes, with two sets of paddle-like levers and a set that looks more like bumpers.

(Image credit: Future)

There’s no software for customizing the inputs of the KK3 Max, which is a shame. However, there are still plenty of adjustments you can make and features to enable using various button combinations. You can alter the sensitivity of the analog sticks, with three levels to choose from, as well as toggle Dead Zone mode for them. You can also enable the Motion Aim Assist mode, letting you assign gyroscopic controls when either the left stick or the left trigger is held. Again, there are three levels of sensitivity to choose from here.

Other settings include a toggle for the D-pad between four- and eight-direction modes, A and B and X and Y swaps, and a Rapid Trigger function with two modes to choose from: one where the chosen input triggers repeatedly when held, and the other when it’s merely pressed. An autopilot mode and a macro recorder are available, too.

All these adjustments are quite easy to make, and there are some useful indicators that let you know what settings have been selected. For instance, the sticks light different colors depending on which of the three sensitivity levels is set, and the pad rumbles once, twice, or thrice depending on which of the three sensitivities of the Motion Aim Assist is set. However, I still would’ve preferred software for convenience's sake; it’s always nice to see your settings represented graphically, and having to remember all the button combinations is a hassle I could do without.

(Image credit: Future)Gulikit KK3 Max review: Performance

• Solid button feel
• Slightly imprecise sticks
• Motion controls are mixed

In action, the KK3 Max acquits itself rather well. The face buttons are tactile and well-damped, and only require a light touch to press, which makes them feel snappy. However, they don’t provide the best feedback, and there are times when it can be difficult to feel them actually being pressed. Thankfully, however, this didn’t result in presses failing to register, in my experience.

The bumpers are more clicky, but still have enough dampening to make presses satisfying. However, I found their position a little too high, which can make reaching them a little difficult. I should say that I encounter this problem on quite a few gamepads, but here it’s particularly acute.

In fact, I found the back buttons more usable than the bumpers, which isn’t something I can say about a lot of other controllers with back buttons. Their travel might be shallow, no matter which lever you decide to attach, but there’s enough dampening and feedback to make them viable as replacements for other inputs. I didn’t accidentally trigger them when gripping the KK3 Max tightly, either. The shapes of the various levers are easy to use, although I did find that the lower paddles were best used with two fingers rather than one.

(Image credit: Future)

The triggers are resistant enough to provide adequate control when performing graduated presses, something I especially appreciate when playing racing games such as Assetto Corsa that require precise acceleration and braking inputs. Their relatively shallow travel does negate this aspect somewhat, but I still found them just about up to the task. They’re also light enough to perform rapid inputs when needed, and to prevent fatigue from setting in during prolonged holds.

The sticks move freely and quickly, with a fast rebound that makes them feel snappy. Aiming was quite accurate when I played 007 First Light, although they don’t offer the smoothest motion, with small but frequent jumps and unexpected accelerations affecting my accuracy. Thankfully, their aforementioned height didn’t pose a problem when moving them around, although it did cause some instability when pressing in the L3 and R3 buttons, with accidental directional movements often accompanying them.

The gyroscopic motion controls are mixed in terms of their performance. When I played The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom on my Switch, they were smooth when aiming the bow, and on a par with the best Nintendo Switch controllers. However, with games on other platforms, such as First Light on PC and Hitman Blood Money — Reprisal on Android, they were jerky and restrictive in terms of movement. No matter how many times I recalibrated them using the onboard function to do this, they didn’t improve on these systems.

I had no issues connecting the KK3 Max to my Windows 11 PC, Switch, or Android tablet via Bluetooth or the USB dongle. The handy button for hot-switching between devices is also useful, and hot-switching itself proved quick in my experience. However, the button doesn’t operate that well, taking a few too many presses to actually respond.

Should I buy the Gulikit KK3 Max?Buy it if…

You want a comfortable gamepad
The ergonomic shape of the KK3 Max, combined with the super smooth front panel and rounded triggers, make it comfortable to use — although those with particularly large hands might struggle with it.

You want plenty of back buttons
With four back buttons and three different kinds of lever attachments for them, the KK3 Max is great for those who like to trigger inputs with their fingers rather than their thumbs.

Don't buy it if…

You want software
Even though you can customize the inputs of the KK3 Max, you’ll need to do this with button combinations, as there’s no companion app.

You want the best stick performance
The sticks aren’t quite as smooth or precise as those in the best gamepads.

Gulikit KK3 Max review: Also consider

GuliKit KK3 Max

8BitDo Pro 3

Valve Steam Controller (2026)

Price

$79.99 / £65.99 / AU$113.95

$59.99 / £40 (around AU$84)

$99 / £85 / AU$149

Weight

9.7oz / 275g

8.5oz / 242g

10.3oz / 292g

Dimensions

6 x 4.3 x 1.3in / 154.7 x 108.1 x 32.4mm

6.1 x 3.9 x 2.6in / 154 x 101 x 65mm

4.4 x 6.3 x 2.2in / 111 x 159 x 57mm

Compatibility

PC, Switch, Switch 2, Android, iOS

Switch, Switch 2, PC, Android, iOS

PC, Mac, Android, iOS

Connection type

Wireless (2.4GHz, Bluetooth), Wired (USB-C)

Wireless (2.4GHz, Bluetooth), Wired (USB-C)

Steam Controller Puck, USB, Bluetooth

Battery life

15-28 hours

15-20 hours

35+ hours

Valve Steam Controller (2026)
Valve’s latest iteration of the Steam Controller was highly anticipated, and in our view it didn’t disappoint. We found it offered great all-round performance, thanks to its TMR analog sticks and excellent gyro controls. Unlike other controllers, it also features touchpads for controlling cursor movement, making it a real boon for PC players. It doesn’t have the wide-ranging platform support of others, though.

Read our full Valve Steam Controller (2026) review.

8BitDo Pro 3
If you want to spend less on a controller but still want great performance, look no further than the 8BitDo Pro 3. We loved the performance of its sticks, triggers, and D-pad, and we found its shape supremely comfortable, while still staying faithful to the old SNES gamepad it’s keen to emulate. It also has great software with plenty of customizations.

Read our full 8BitDo Pro 3 review.

(Image credit: Future)How I tested the Gulikit KK3 Max

• Tested consistently for a few days
• Played a variety of games on multiple devices
• Plenty of controller experience

I tested the Gulikit KK3 Max for a few days, during which time I played a number of games on most of the platforms the controller is compatible with. I used it on my Windows 11 PC via the 2.4GHz wireless USB dongle, and on my Switch and Samsung Galaxy Tab S11 tablet via Bluetooth.

I made sure to play a variety of games across these platforms to test every facet of the controller’s performance. I played 007 First Light on PC, which is a good test for the accuracy and precision of analog sticks, as well as Hitman: Blood Money — Reprisal on my tablet for the same purpose. I also played Assetto Corsa, which is not only a good test for the sticks but also for the control offered by the triggers. I also played The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom on Switch, primarily to test the motion controls, as the game and console handle such controls very well.

I’ve been gaming for decades, and have used numerous gamepads with numerous systems in that time. I’ve also reviewed a number of other controllers, from budget offerings to high-performing premium models.

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

Logitech Mobi Fold review

The Logitech Mobi Fold is, without question, the weirdest mouse I have ever used in my life.

This tiny, foldable travel mouse is focused on one thing above all: portability. Just like a clamshell phone from the noughties, it can fold in half, allowing you to easily slip it into your pocket if you’re working on the go. But even though the Logitech Mobi Fold’s exceptional portability is its clear USP, I have to ask… is it actually that necessary?

After all, a lot of mice are already highly compact, and if you’re working on the go, you’ve probably got a bag to hold your laptop or tablet, right? I’d bet that your bag can fit a laptop and a mouse, so arguably, the thing that makes this mouse so special isn’t actually that game-changing.

Still, the Mobi Fold has a few interesting features to run through, and you’re surely curious as to how such a strange model feels in use. So, after using the Logitech Mobi Fold as my main mouse for a few days, here’s how I’d rate it — and whether I think it can compete with the best mice around.

First things first, the Mobi Fold is incredibly easy to get set up. There’s a sync button on it that makes linking up to a windows laptop, Mac, or Android device incredibly seamless. There’s also an easy switch feature, making it incredibly speedy to flick between a range of devices.

But after I got set up with the Mobi Fold, and started using it to get some work done I have to say… it wasn’t amazing.

The Mobi Fold exhibits a few key issues that make it feel inferior to a standard compact or productivity mouse. First of all, it has a slightly bizarre build. Its V-shape form makes it feel awkward to grip, and when using it for extended periods, this caused me to feel some discomfort in my hand. It lacks the ergonomics of my everyday mouse, the Razer Viper V3 Pro, and even lacked its fluidity, meaning moving it across my desk felt clunky.

In addition, the touch-controlled scrolling is a bit inconsistent. It doesn’t provide the same tight control of a traditional mechanical scroll wheel, and again feels a bit lacking in terms of fluidity. Don’t get me wrong: it’s totally functional, but if you want the smooth, precise scrolling of a traditional mouse, the Mobi Fold may leave you wanting more.

My final critique is on the feel of the left and right buttons. While these are serviceable, they felt more stiff than I expected them to, especially towards the back and middle of the model. I did appreciate the muted sound of clicking the left and right buttons, but I wish they felt a bit more sensitive.

(Image credit: Future)

Despite all of this, there are some clear positives worth pointing out. First of all, the mouse offers great battery life. It supplies about 22 hours of continuous use, which easily got me through the work week, meaning I didn’t need to charge it at all during the testing period. Having said that, Logitech says that you can get an extra three hours of use from just one minute of charging, making it exceptionally practical for someone like me who often forgets to juice up their devices.

In addition, the Mobi Fold features customizable button controls through the Logi Options+ app. This enables you to adapt pointer speed, set the central touch panel to different functions (like paste, volume controls, or a keyboard shortcut), and more.

In terms of design, I’m also a fan of the rubbery texture of the mouse, which is very pleasant to the touch. It’s also worth noting that 36% of the plastics used in the Graphite colorway of the mouse I used are made from recycled materials. It’s 29% for the Lilac and Off-White variants, which look pretty stylish in my opinion.

Look, the Logitech Mobi Fold does well to stand out from the crowd. Its lightweight and foldable design undoubtedly makes it easy to travel with — even though I’d argue that standard mice are probably portable enough as they are. In addition, the customizable buttons, long battery life, and satisfying feel of the mouse are clear positives.

But for $79.99 / £69.99 / AU$129.95, the Mobi Fold ends up feeling like a relatively poor value for money option. Really, that comes down to one thing: its lackluster performance. With underwhelming ergonomics, as well as slightly stiff scrolling and buttons, the Mobi Fold feels like an idea that’s far more impressive in concept than it is in practice.

(Image credit: Future)Logitech Mobi Fold review: price & release date

• $79.99 / £69.99 / AU$129.95
• Released in June 2026
• Available in four colors

The Logitech Mobi Fold released in June 2026, carrying a list price of $79.99 / £69.99 / AU$129.95. That price means it’s competing in the same price bracket as great models we’ve tested, such as the Keychron M6 8K, but a lot more than our favorite ultra-compact mouse, the Logitech Pop Mouse. It's available in four colors, including Graphite, Off-White, Lilac, and Sand.

Logitech Mobi Fold review: specs

Interface

Bluetooth 5.1 LE

Battery life

22 hours (continuous use)

Buttons

4

DPI

4,000

Switches

Not stated

Weight

2.8oz / 79g

(Image credit: Future)Should I buy the Logitech Mobi Fold?

Attribute

Notes

Score

Design

Lightweight and foldable for travel, nice material and color options, but poor ergonomics.

3/5

Performance

Functional, though clicking feels a bit stiff, touch scroll panel isn’t most precise, and uncomfortable for longer usage sessions.

2.5/5

Value

Simply too expensive for the quality on offer.

2.5/5

Buy it if…

You want something ultra-portable
Perhaps the main attraction of the Mobi Fold is its ultra-compact form factor. If you want something you can slide into your pocket for on-the-go use, it doesn’t get much more convenient than this.

You want a stylish mouse
One thing I won’t deny about the Mobi Fold is that it's pretty stylish. Its foldable design, its enticing color options, and its appealing silicone exterior all work in its favor.

Don’t buy it if…

You want top-tier ergonomics
The slightly odd shape of the Mobi Fold can make it a little awkward to grip and use for longer periods, meaning it's not the best option if you value great ergonomics and comfort.

You’re looking for precise performance
The Mobi Fold uses a touch sensor for scrolling, and it just doesn’t feel as precise as a typical mechanical scroll wheel. Pair that with slightly stiff left and right buttons and its unorthodox feel, and it falls short of some major competitors in its price range.

Logitech Mobi Fold review: also consider

Logitech Pop Mouse
Logitech knocked it out of the park with the Pop Mouse, which is one of our favorite compact models you can buy. With satisfying clicks, good customization options, and easy switching, it's a certified hit — especially when you consider its modest asking price.

Keychron M6 8K
This one’s a little different, but if you have the budget to grab the Mobi Fold, then you may want to consider a model like the Keychron M6 8K instead. It boasts a lightweight feel, 8K polling, fantastic ergonomics, and a feature-rich companion app, making it a brilliant all-rounder.

How I tested the Logitech Mobi Fold

• Spent days using it as my main mouse
• Tried out its various features
• Took on the go to test its travel credentials

I spent multiple days testing the Logitech Mobi Fold, using it as my main mouse in the office and when working from home.

During my time with the Mobi Fold, I used it for general productivity, exhausted its various features, and even took it on the go to assess its on-the-go credentials. I typically had the mouse connected to my Windows PC, but I also tried it out with an Android phone.

More generally, I’ve spent years testing gadgets here at TechRadar, where I serve as an in-house Senior Reviews Writer. I’ve tried out a wide array of computing accessories, such as the Turtle Beach Command Series KB7 keyboard, as well as gaming gear, premium wireless headphones, power banks, and more.

• Read TechRadar’s reviews guarantee
• First reviewed: August 2026

Kensington Expert Mouse Pro TB900 EQ: 30-second review

The Kensington Expert Mouse Pro TB900 EQ follows a long line of large-ball control devices that rethink the standard computer mouse entirely. This latest version is a relatively large unit that sits where your mouse would, with a big central trackball with controls neatly arranged around it.

Setup on the Mac took a little longer than expected, requiring a couple of restarts and some security authorisation in System Settings. Everything is guided and reasonably straightforward, and where something did not work first time, a restart sorted it. On Windows 11 it was considerably simpler: install Kensington Konnect and the applications and integration were ready to go.

Once running, you can start customising it per application. I tested both wired and Bluetooth connections, and both were fast and responsive for video and photo editing, as well as for Word and Excel.

Kensington Konnect is where everything happens. You add applications to the list on the right, and the presets for the TB900 EQ swap automatically as those applications come to the front. Switching between Photoshop and Final Cut Pro during this test, I had a different set of presets waiting for each. I could not find any pre-configured application profiles supplied, though this is a pre-release unit and maybe they’ll arrive as downloads later.

In Final Cut Pro, most of the defaults were close to what I wanted. I changed the dial around the main ball to scrub, the lower-left button to blade, and the right button to select. With those three, plus the ball tracking left and right, the four most common movements were all within reach without moving my hand.

The test that convinced me was a head-to-head edit. I edited the same footage once with keyboard and mouse as I normally would, then again using the TB900, and the trackball was quicker despite years of muscle memory pointing the other way.

If you work in the creative sector, or simply find a mouse annoying, this is worth a look. Having used many control boards over the years and trackballs, I am genuinely surprised by how much I like the TB900 EQ and how quickly it improved my video editing.

Kensington Expert Mouse Pro TB900 EQ: Price and availability

• How much does it cost? TBC
• When is it out? Coming soon
• Where can you get it? Directly from Kensington

(Image credit: Alastair Jennings)

The Expert Mouse Pro TB900 EQ is at pre-release and not yet available in stores. The previous TB800 EQ is widely available from major retailers and directly from Kensington, so I expect the new TB900 to follow suit.

• Value: TBC

Kensington Expert Mouse Pro TB900 EQ: Specs

Connectivity: USB-C wired, Bluetooth and 2.4GHz USB dongle
Size: 125 x 165mm, approximately 60mm high with the ball fitted
Weight: Just under 450g
Ball diameter: 55mm, removable
Tracking: Kensington Diamond Eye optical tracking
Controls: Four buttons around the ball, 360-degree scroll ring, two side scroll dials, four top buttons, mode button, three underside toggle switches
OS Installed: Kensington Konnect software, macOS and Windows

Kensington Expert Mouse Pro TB900 EQ: Design

(Image credit: Alastair Jennings)

The TB900 is a great-looking device, though far larger than an average mouse, with a desktop footprint of 125 x 165mm and a height of roughly 60mm with the ball fitted. At just under 450g, it is also considerably heavier, which in practice means it stays exactly where you put it rather than wandering across the desk.

The point of the design is that it takes up little room and you never move it. Your cursor travels because the ball turns, not because your hand travels. Around the 55mm ball sit four buttons and a rotating scroll ring. Across the top are four additional buttons and a mode button; on the left are two rotary dials with a connectivity switch and button; and on the right are two quick-access buttons.

Underneath there are three toggle switches that turn off the two side scroll dials and the top button. That makes more sense the more you use it, because those controls are easy to knock accidentally. Moving between Word, Excel, and creative applications, I found myself flicking the side dials off and on, and having physical switches for that rather than a menu is something I really liked.

(Image credit: Alastair Jennings)

Build quality is excellent and this review sample is the black-and-grey option, with a matt black body in good-quality plastic and a silver-grey ball that has a satisfying weight.

A red version is also available with a red ball but the same body. It’s also worth noting that while the device is relatively small, there’s no carry case in the box, so if you’re thinking of portability, that is something to consider. Placed into my kit bag, the ball would come loose.

That one oddity to anyone new to the system is that the ball lifts straight out. It’s held only by the cradle's light grip and its own weight, making it quick to swap in a different-coloured ball, although less well designed for portability as mentioned.

• Design: 4.5 / 5

Kensington Expert Mouse Pro TB900 EQ: Features

(Image credit: Alastair Jennings)

Compared with a standard mouse, the TB900 EQ is surprisingly feature-packed. Reading the movement of the ball is Kensington's Diamond Eye optical tracking that moves the cursor across the screen as the 55mm ball is rotated. In use, this instantly feels far more accurate than using a mouse, with plenty of control over interaction speed accessible through the Konnect software. The ball's own weight also means that it’s smooth to move but feels tactile rather than loose.

Around the ball is a fully adjustable scroll ring with 360-degree rotation, and it is superb for scrubbing through video footage. On the sides sit two customisable scroll dials which, by default, are both set to zoom in whichever application you are in. That proved annoying, and I reassigned them quickly because I kept catching one with my little finger. Likewise for some of the speed settings, the vertical scroll set at slow was actually the perfect balance; however, I did switch off the inertia scroll.

Every button and control is customisable through Konnect, which lets you create presets for each application. For this review, I configured Photoshop, Premiere Pro and Final Cut Pro. Aside from the zoom assignment, the defaults were fine for most productivity work.

Konnect splits into Buttons, Pointer, and Scrolling tabs, with Easy Mode and Advanced Mode, and settings are stored under named profiles. Pointer speed runs on a slider with optional acceleration, and a custom speed can be bound to modifier keys so a Cmd or Shift press temporarily changes tracking speed.

Alongside the dials, the buttons around the ball take what is possible on a standard mouse a good deal further. At the same time, there are plenty of mice with multiple buttons and customisation software. It’s only when you start using a trackball like this that you realise how much more intuitive the arrangement is, particularly for creative work.

• Features: 4.5 / 5

Kensington Expert Mouse Pro TB900 EQ: Performance

(Image credit: Alastair Jennings)

I tested the TB900 EQ on both macOS and Windows 11. The majority of the work was done on a MacBook Pro M1 Max, with part of the test carried out on an ASUS ProArt desktop to similar effect. Installation on the Windows machine was extremely straightforward: install Konnect, and the applications and integration were set and ready.

On the Mac it was more involved. Security authorisation is needed from within System Settings. While the setup process opens the relevant window directly rather than leaving you hunting for the toggle switches, I still hit a few connectivity issues. These were resolved with a restart of the machine, after which everything was resolved, and every connection after that initial setup was instant, with my configured presets remaining intact.

What struck me when I started was how intuitive the trackball felt. A dip into Konnect to reduce sensitivity, so the cursor was less jittery, showed how much more control you have than with a mouse. I found that resting two fingers on the ball gave the greatest control for the cursor with my thumb on the dial.

It also didn’t take long for the ball and surrounding buttons to feel natural, essentially mimicking a mouse layout. Once normal operation was established, I then moved on to per-application customisation, starting with Final Cut Pro, then Photoshop, and finally Premiere Pro.

What I was keen to address is the problem with any video edit of scrubbing control with a mouse. Essentially, scrubbing through footage both quickly and accurately to find the exact frame where an edit is needed. With the use of the ball, this all changes and what I liked here was that the four buttons around the ball and the scroll ring let me assign all the most common functions.

The ball itself scrubs the timeline. The scroll ring around it handles precise scrubbing, one frame at a time. The left button selects, the right blades, and the two top buttons move to the previous and next cut. All of it is assigned through Konnect.

Once those basics were set, everything else fell into line. After about five minutes of editing, it was clearly faster than the mouse-and-keyboard setup I am used to, and it felt far more like being back in an edit suite than at a desk.

The comparison I ran was a straight head-to-head. Stating a three-minute edit with the keyboard and mouse took around 20 minutes, consisting of a soundtrack edit then B-Roll. I then took a look at another similar video and repeated the process, and the second edit took around 15 minutes with a definite speed increase due to the button layout.

What really made the difference was the precision, being able to assign the dial around the ball to scrub, so a quick spin would speed through the footage while a smaller turn would go frame-by-frame, giving absolute control

Moving to Word, I assigned the features I use most to the buttons, with the scroll ring handling accurate movement through the text. Having the control dial skip a line at a time, with the left button for selection, again felt more intuitive than mouse and keyboard.

The TB900 however does not work in isolation. I still use the keyboard for typing and for shortcuts, but I was able to move far more of the control function away from the mouse and onto the trackball. Individually, those are a couple of seconds in savings. Over a half-day, edits add up to a considerable difference.

• Performance: 4.5 / 5

Kensington Expert Mouse Pro TB900 EQ: Final verdict

(Image credit: Alastair Jennings)

Thinking about who this is for, office workers get the simplest benefit: quick navigation around the screen without the faff of moving a mouse across the desk. The trackball stays fixed and close, so you never need to clear a path for it.

Then there is the customisation. Once you start assigning buttons to different applications and functions, and spend serious time in a piece of software, it is not difficult to tune it to exactly what you need.

Where it really comes into its own is the creative sector. The analogue feel of the two side dials and the main ring around the ball makes a genuine difference, and the texture and weight of the ball add a lot when working with creative media, giving fine and precise control. That is the real difference between this and a mouse: you feel fully in control of both cursor navigation and the edits you are applying.

It does take a little time to bed in and to get the right customisation assigned. Once you do, this is as close to a perfect trackball design as I have come across, especially when working across several applications rather than treating it as a dedicated video controller.

If, like me, you are not that keen on a mouse and often fall back to a trackpad instead, the Expert Mouse Pro TB900 EQ will be a pleasant surprise. And if you have tried trackballs before and struggled to get your head around them, my experience across this review is that this one is quick and easy to pick up.

Should I buy a Kensington Expert Mouse Pro TB900 EQ?

(Image credit: Alastair Jennings)

Value

If priced along the same lines as the previous version then this again should be great value, but I’ll update when the official price is confirmed

/

Design

Excellent build and weight, ergonomic control layout, but unfortunately no carry case

4.5/5

Features

Fully customisable per-application track ball and button assignment through Konnect

4.5/5

Performance

Easy to use becoming faster than mouse and keyboard within minutes, minor Mac setup friction

4.5/5

Overall

Absolutely outstanding, easy to use and far more intuative than using a mouse, especially for creative applications and video editing. 

4.5/5

Buy it if...

You edit video or work in creative applications.

The scroll ring scrubs a timeline while the ball tracks and the surrounding buttons blade and select put the four most common editing movements under one hand, without reaching for the keyboard.

You dislike using a mouse.

The trackball never moves, so it needs no clear desk space, and one finger on the ball covers the whole screen. If you already prefer a trackpad, this will feel like a considerable upgrade.

Don't buy it if...

You want something to use straight from the box.

The defaults work fine, but the value lies in customisation, and setting up per-application profiles in Konnect takes time before the speed benefit kicks in.

You need to work away from a desk.

At 125 x 165mm and just under 450g, with no carry case supplied, this is a device that lives on a desk rather than one that travels in a bag.

Turtle Beach Pacific Skyline Wireless Controller: One-minute review

The Turtle Beach Pacific Skyline is the best-looking Xbox controller that I’ve ever tested. The face plate, complete with its illustration of a San Diego skyline dripping with inviting tropical vibes, is gorgeous and pairs wonderfully with the contrasting baby blue buttons and bright pink thumbstick caps.

The Pacific Skyline has a hidden trick up its sleeve as well — stunning RGB lighting that illuminates the city’s major buildings when the controller is turned on and can be customized with a variety of colours and presets without the need for any companion software. It’s genuinely a beautiful bit of hardware, and there’s nothing else quite like it on the market.

I’m sure the look was also closely inspired by Grand Theft Auto 6 as it’s very reminiscent of the game’s bright promotional art, and I already know that this will be my go-to gamepad when I venture into the neon-soaked streets of Vice City on Xbox Series X.

The aesthetics are great, but the controller also performs well overall — even if it’s not particularly feature-rich. The TMR thumbsticks are responsive and smooth, the rear buttons are easy to remap on the fly, and the built-in audio controls are genuinely useful and effective, giving you some compelling reasons to choose it over the stock Xbox Wireless Controller aside from just the look.

Yes, there are some controllers with even more features available for around the same price, just look at the GameSir G7 Pro, but you simply won’t find anything that’s this visually appealing elsewhere.

FutureFutureFutureTurtle Beach Pacific Skyline Wireless Controller: Price and availability

• Available in the US and UK
• Costs $89.99 / £79.99 / around AU$150
• You’re paying a premium for the design

The Turtle Beach Pacific Skyline Wireless Controller is readily available in the US and UK via the Turtle Beach website, where it costs $89.99 / £79.99 (that’s roughly AU$150). This model does not seem to have made its way to Australia yet.

It’s a solid price given the feature set, but you’re definitely paying a bit of a premium for the design, and alternatives like the GameSir G7 Pro deliver more features for the same cost.

Still, it’s worth it if you're considering the likes of the standard Xbox Wireless Controller but are willing to splash out for a nicer and more unique design.

Turtle Beach Pacific Skyline Wireless Controller: Specs

Price

$89.99 / £79.99 / around AU$150

Weight

7.04oz / 200g

Dimensions

6.22 x 4.09 x 2.36in / 158 x 104 x 60mm

Compatibility

PC, Xbox Series X, Xbox Series S, Xbox One

Connection type

Bluetooth, Wired (USB-C), 2.4Ghz wireless dongle

Battery life

~20 hours

Turtle Beach Pacific Skyline Wireless Controller: Design and features

• Stunning tropical aesthetic
• Standard Xbox controller form factor
• Rear inputs and on-board controls

Out of the box, the first thing you’re going to notice about the Turtle Beach Pacific Skyline Wireless Controller is its beautiful design. Turtle Beach says that the pink and baby blue look was inspired by the ‘Xbox pastel project’ — which saw a selection of third-party gamepads with pastel aesthetics hit the market a few years ago.

I think there’s another clear inspiration, though: GTA 6. Covered in palm trees, with views of a beach and a city skyline (in this case, San Diego, the home of Turtle Beach), it’s a perfect match for the highly anticipated upcoming open-world game.

I imagine this pad is Turtle Beach’s way of getting in on the GTA 6 hype, but that’s certainly not a complaint as I think the result is stunning. The bright colors really pop, and the design is detailed enough to pore over without being too distracting.

(Image credit: Future)

There is also some brilliant RGB lighting when you turn on the pad, which lights up to reveal an otherwise hidden skyline. It looks truly brilliant and surprisingly tasteful, especially if you set it to a static illumination in a custom color.

In terms of layout, the Turtle Beach Pacific Skyline Wireless Controller is very close to the standard Xbox gamepad.

The overall shapes are extremely similar, though side by side you will notice that the Pacific Skyline has slightly softer corners and fatter grips. The Turtle Beach pad does have three extra buttons: a microphone mute button (which can also be pressed to access on-board functions) and two customizable rear paddles.

If you look at the D-pad, you will notice a few small markings. Hold the microphone mute button and tap up or down to raise or lower the volume of your connected headphones, while left and right adjust game chat balance. The controls are intuitive and easy to remember, and genuinely quite useful as it means that you don’t have to fiddle around with system menus to adjust game volume if you’re playing with wired headphones connected via the controller's 3.5mm jack.

The controller doesn't feature any removable batteries, and is instead charged via a USB Type-C cable. A generous roughly 10ft / 300cm one is included in the box along with a USB dongle. Sadly, neither the cable nor the dongle are pink or blue to match the controller — a missed opportunity to make them stand out against those of other pads.

(Image credit: Future)Turtle Beach Pacific Skyline Wireless Controller: Performance

• Delivers well-rounded performance
• Basic but functional software
• Very lightweight

The Turtle Beach Pacific Skyline Wireless Controller delivers basically everything you could want from a basic Xbox Wireless Controller alternative. The thumbsticks are smooth and responsive, the buttons are satisfying to press and well-sized, and additional features like the volume mixing and rear inputs work just as you would expect.

It certainly doesn’t reinvent the wheel in any respect, but the performance is exactly what you would want and expect at this price. There are more versatile options out there, though I think this is reasonable when, realistically, you’re mainly buying this particular controller for its looks.

The controller is compatible with two pieces of companion software: the Swarm II mobile app and the Turtle Beach - PDP Control Hub. Both offer similar options and are rather basic, mainly there for adjusting vibration strength, remapping buttons, and tweaking thumbstick dead zones.

My only real complaint using the controller is that the materials simply don’t feel as premium as the Xbox Wireless Controller. I think a lot of that comes down to the weight: the Turtle Beach Pacific Skyline Wireless Controller is very light, making it comfortable in the hands but meaning it lacks that reassuring heftiness. The back of the grips is also completely smooth, and I found myself missing the more grippy texture of the original pad.

The Pacific Skyline controller gains back the upper hand with its built-in battery. It lasts for about 20 hours per charge — roughly on par with Microsoft’s pad, all without the need to fiddle with pricey AAs every time you need to top it up.

(Image credit: Future)Should I buy the Turtle Beach Pacific Skyline Wireless Controller?Buy it if…

You love the aesthetic
There’s simply no controller out there that looks like the Turtle Beach Pacific Skyline. It’s a must-have if you’re enamoured with its appearance like me.

You want a no-nonsense Xbox gamepad
The Turtle Beach Pacific Skyline Wireless Controller has fewer features than some alternatives, making it very easy to use.

Don’t buy it if…

You want maximum value
The stock Xbox Wireless Controller is cheaper than this model and could be a better choice if you’re on a budget. Performance is similar, and you only miss a few extra features.

Also consider...

Not keen on the Turtle Beach Pacific Skyline Wireless Controller? Here are two alternatives to weigh up.

Turtle Beach Pacific Skyline Wireless Controller

Xbox Wireless Controller

GameSir G7 Pro

Price

$89.99 / £79.99 / around AU$150

$59.99 / £54.99 / AU$74.99

$79.99 / £89.99 (around AU$114)

Weight

7.04oz / 200g

9.76oz / 275g

9.6oz / 272g

Dimensions

6.22 x 4.09 x 2.36in / 158 x 104 x 60mm

6.02 x 4.01 x 2.40in / 153mm x 102mm x 61mm

6.9 x 6.8 x 3.7in / 177 x 173 x 94mm

Compatibility

PC, Xbox Series X, Xbox Series S, Xbox One

Xbox Series X, Xbox Series S, Xbox One, PC, Android, iOS

Xbox Series X|S, Xbox One, PC

Connection type

Bluetooth, Wired (USB-C), 2.4Ghz wireless dongle

Wireless (Xbox, Bluetooth), Wired (USB-C)

Wireless (2.4GHz, Bluetooth), Wired (USB-C)

Battery life

~20 hours

20-40 hours

Around 12 hours

Xbox Wireless Controller
The stock Xbox Wireless Controller is a decent alternative if you're after a cheaper Xbox or PC controller. You lose the remappable rear buttons and the lovely design, though.

Read our full Xbox Wireless Controller review

GameSir G7 Pro
The GameSir G7 Pro shows that you can get even more features for the price of the Turtle Beach Pacific Skyline Wireless Controller. It offers a 1000Hz polling rate and dual-mode triggers

Read our full GameSir G7 Pro review

How I tested the Turtle Beach Pacific Skyline Wireless Controller

• Tested for multiple weeks
• Used as primary controller for Xbox and PC
• Compared to other gamepads

I tested the Turtle Beach Pacific Skyline Wireless Controller for more than two weeks, using it as my primary gamepad for both Xbox and PC play.

During that time, I experienced a wide range of games with it, including driving titles such as Sonic Racing: CrossWorlds, Forza Horizon 3, and Forza Horizon 6, plus shooters like Gears of War Reloaded.

Throughout my time with the controller, I compared it to my hands-on testing of other Xbox controllers, including the standard model and those by competitors like GameSir and PowerA.

Read more about how we test

First reviewed August 2026

RunStar 4E Body Scale: One minute review

The RunStar 4E is an affordable smart scale that costs little more than a standard set of electrical scales. Considering it measures more than 20 different body composition metrics, the low price becomes even more impressive. As you’d expect at this price, there are limitations though, with the inability to measure composition accurately (fat-to-muscle ratios and so on) being the most glaring one.

Despite these shortcomings, everything, from app setup to using the scales, is smooth, straightforward, and wonderfully intuitive. Connecting the scales to the companion app is quick and easy thanks to a robust Bluetooth signal, and the option to create multiple users within the app is a nice touch for a family of my size and stage.

The weight measurement consistently measured around 0.4% more than the pricier RunStar 8E SmartScan Pro, which isn’t a massive deviation. For almost all the other measurements, the RunStar 4E adopts a bioelectrical impedance analysis (BIA) measuring method through four metal sensors located on the top panel of the scale.

BMI measurements were almost identical every single time compared to the 8E SmartScan Pro (probably because it's a mathematical calculation not dependent on the electrodes), but almost all other composition measurements offered up a deviation of between 3 and 30%. For these reasons, it’s not likely to make it into our best smart scales guide. That said, for the price, the RunStar 4E is a respectable set of scales for weight and quick BMI calculation.

(Image credit: Future / Paul Hatton)RunStar 4E Body Scale: Specifications

Component

RunStar 4E Body Scale

Price

$33.54 / £31.00

Dimensions

11.02 x 11.02 x 0.78 inches

Weight

3.17 pounds

Material

6 mm tempered glass

Display

LCD

Battery

3x AAA

Connection

Bluetooth

(Image credit: Future / Paul Hatton)RunStar 4E Body Scale: Price and availability

• $33.54 / £31.00
• Not available in Australia
• Budget-friendly smart scale

At $33.54 USD / £31.00 GBP, the RunStar 4E Body Scale is incredibly affordable as far as smart scales go. It might lack full body measurements for fat loss and fitness and muscle gain, but for that pleasure you’ll have to part with a lot more money and shoot for something like the RunStar 8E SmartScan Pro, Withings Body Scan series, or Wyze Scale X.

A comparable option in terms of price and features would be the Vitafit Smart Bathroom Scale, which scored a respectable four stars in our testing. Positives included the easy connection, extremely fast results, and the comprehensive app. Our reviewer had some concerns over accuracy, but overall it’s a solid choice.

The scales are FSA and HSA eligible, which means US users are able to use them in conjunction with designating pre-tax money to be taken from pay and put towards paying medical expenses.

• Value score 4.5/5

Future / Paul HattonFuture / Paul HattonFuture / Paul HattonRunStar 4E Body Scale: Design

• LCD display with color graphics
• Compact and lightweight design
• Powered by 3x AAA batteries

At the heart of the RunStar 4E is a bright LCD display that provides an easy-to-access readout of six metrics: weight, body fat, BMI, muscle mass, body water, and bone mass. The display cycles through these with a few seconds given over to each stat. Unfortunately there’s no way to move to a specific metric using on-device controls, although the full list is available in the accompanying app.

At 11.02 x 11.02 x 0.78 inches and 3.17 pounds, the smart scale is both compact and lightweight. As a result, finding a suitable spot for it in a bathroom or bedroom shouldn’t be a problem. It can also be easily stowed on its side in a cupboard while not in use.

The scale is covered in 6mm tempered glass, which protects against scratches and cracks, neither of which I suffered despite my children doing their accidental best to inflict a dent or two. Underneath you’ll find four anti-slip silicone feet.

Quick and effortless connectivity is via Bluetooth, and power is delivered courtesy of three AAA batteries. USB-C charging would have been better for the environment, but with minimal power required, I don’t envisage getting through too many batteries.

• Design Score: 4/5

(Image credit: Future / Paul Hatton)RunStar 4E Body Scale: Features

• 22 reportable metrics including weight, BMI, and muscle mass
• App supports multiple users

The RunStar 4E boasts an impressive feature set for such an affordable scale, or at least it would be if the extras were more impressive. At its core, the scale is capable of measuring over 20 metrics, including weight, BMI, body fat percentage, body mass, muscle mass, body water rate, bone mass, and visceral fat. Six of these are visible on the smart scale itself, while the full set is reported in the Starfit RunStar app.

To accommodate families, the Starfit app enables users to set up multiple profiles, one for each family member. By entering the height and target weight of each person, the app is able to provide more accurate and informed reporting. The app also tracks measurements over time and plots them on a chart for trend analysis.

• Features Score: 4/5

(Image credit: Future / Paul Hatton)RunStar 4E Body Scale: Performance

• Quick results on-device and in-app
• Accurate weight, BMI, and metabolic age
• Some inaccuracies consistently reported

The first thing to note is that the RunStar 4E is quick. In a matter of seconds the scale is able to measure over 20 different body composition metrics and display them instantly in the app. There’s no waiting around for calculations to be made and zero lag when the display is cycling through the six core metrics.

Weight, as you’d expect, is measured prior to all the body composition elements. Having measured myself hundreds of times, I found that the 4E regularly mismeasured my weight by around 0.4% compared to the RunStar 8E SmartScan Pro and, indeed, my rudimentary pair of digital weight scales. It would be unfair to judge the scales too harshly for this small deviation, especially given the price.

According to research published in the Journal of Medical Internet Research, one study conducted on smart scales shows a median margin of error of around 0.3kgs, so I can forgive it some small deviation. That said, if you’re requiring absolute accuracy, you’ll need to look elsewhere.

BMI was also consistently measured more or less accurately, with deviations of only 0.5%. If you’re only concerned with quick measurements such as weight and BMI, then the RunStar 4E won’t cause you any problems.

(Image credit: Future / Paul Hatton)

Getting into the specifics, musculoskeletal-related measurements using BIA include muscle, muscle mass, and skeletal muscle rates. The first two measured around a 3% deviation from the 8E SmartScan Pro, but it was the skeletal muscle rate which was most concerning, measuring a deviation of nearly 15%.

Unfortunately variable results continue with fat-related metrics. Compared to the SmartScan Pro, body fat percentage, subcutaneous fat, and body fat mass all reported a massive 30% deviation.

Despite comparably poor results on some metrics, it’s worth remembering that most of these are specialized measurements, and to expect too much from a smart scale that costs $33.54 / £31.00 might be a little unreasonable.

That said, it would be preferable for consumers if smart scale manufacturers would only include metrics that they could report on accurately. The RunStar 4E also measures consistently with itself, which means it can still be trusted as a weight loss tool assuming you allow for the margin of error.

• Performance score: 3.5/5

RunStar 4E Body Scale: Scorecard

Category

Comment

Score

Value

An impressive smart scale given its budget-friendly price point.

4.5/5

Design

A compact and lightweight smart scale with a bright LCD display.

4/5

Features

Over 20 body composition metrics with the RunStar app providing a reasonable level of trend analysis.

4/5

Performance

Weight and BMI are accurate, but other measurements are subject to sizable deviations.

3.5/5

RunStar 4E Body Scale: Should I buy?Buy it if...

You’re looking for a decent affordable smart scale

A surprisingly solid set of features for such a cheap scale.

You only care about working towards a healthier BMI

As well as weight, the RunStar 4E delivers accurate BMI calculations.

Don't buy it if...

You want to be able to sync results with health apps

The RunStar isn’t capable of linking in with any sort of wider ecosystem.

Also consider

Vitafit Smart Bathroom Scale

A similarly priced smart scale with a comparable set of features. Boasts a slightly larger display and a more comprehensive app experience.

Vitafit Smart Bathroom ScaleView Deal

RunStar 8E SmartScan Pro

A superior, and pricier, smart scale capable of measuring more metrics and breaking them down into specific parts of the body.View Deal

How I tested

My family (two adults and three children) has been using the RunStar 4E for three months. We’ve used it to measure and track all types of metrics, including weight, BMI, and muscle mass. I carried out comparison tests with the more premium RunStar 8E SmartScan Pro. In addition, I’ve used every feature of the app to give the smart scales a thorough testing.

First reviewed: July 2026

Norton has long been a household name for antivirus software but, despite launching its first VPN, Norton WiFi Privacy, back in 2017, it's never achieved the same pedigree in this space. Enter Norton VPN, with its Standard, Plus and Ultimate tiers, now back on the scene, revamped, and on a mission to impress.

This is our second full test of what has been the most improved VPN in the space over the last 12 months. It's fast, very user friendly and has the kind of array of features you’d expect from a top VPN service.

Styled as the VPN that everyone can use, we've put it through its paces, once again, both in day-to-day scenarios and more rigorous, lab tests to see how far its come since last time.

Features

Norton VPN’s revamp has seen the arrival of a host of features across several platforms, and it continues to improve its fundamentals – even if some areas still require work.

As far as VPN protocols go, Norton offers OpenVPN, WireGuard, IPSec, and Mimic, its proprietary protocol designed for obfuscation.

iOS and Mac users had previously been limited to only IPSec and Mimic, which was disappointing given OpenVPN and WireGuard’s improved capabilities. Luckily, Norton announced that WireGuard is available across all Apple platforms in March, 2026. This is a huge win for iOS users, since although IPSec can be fast, WireGuard offers a faster, less device-intensive experience.

Users on iOS and macOS had previously been limited to only IPSec and Mimic protocols — making WireGuard a more than welcome addition (Image credit: Future)

As for extra features, we like Wi-Fi detection which allows you to auto-connect to the VPN when connecting to public Wi-Fi. On macOS, it also auto-connects on “compromised networks” but it’s unclear how Norton decides if a network is compromised. All wireless networks are considered public by default.

Norton also offers ad and tracker blocking. Tracking is blocked at a DNS level to reduce the risk of your data being used for targeted ads while you browse online, and can be turned on by simply toggling the option.

Although the tracker appeared to work, its ‘Trackers Blocked’ counter seems to run on a delay, rather than in real time, so while we know 50 trackers were blocked across a period of our testing time, we don’t have any indication of when each was blocked.

Ad blocking is undertaken by a browser extension. Although this means another download and sign-in process, it's well worth. This ad blocker is excellent! In our latest test it scored a staggering 96% of adverts blocked which puts it ahead of dedicated ad-blocker uBlock Origin (91%).

A key area of improvement has been in Norton VPN’s security-focused features. Firstly, Norton VPN offers a simple-to-use kill switch, ensuring your internet traffic stops immediately when you lose connection to the VPN, preventing you from broadcasting unencrypted traffic over public Wi-Fi networks.

If you’d prefer, you can choose whether you’d like to keep your access to local devices over a LAN even when the kill switch is active. The kill switch isn’t enabled by default and requires you to dig through a few menus to set it up, but if you’re on macOS, Norton gives you an easy set of guidelines to follow so you can quickly set it up.

It is also worth noting that, despite the addition of WireGuard to the iOS app, it won't work with a kill switch in that mode on iPhone just now.

The new Norton VPN app houses all of its improved features in an easy-to-use design resemblant of other Norton products (Image credit: Future)

Norton VPN has added features at a rate of knots since 2025. In April 2025 alone, Norton VPN gained Double VPN, IP Rotation, Pause VPN capabilities, and the ad-blocking browser extension mentioned above.

Double VPN is available across 8 servers. While your connection options are fixed, for example, USA via Canada, they are bi-directional, and give you access to Australia, Canada, Germany, Japan, New Zealand, Taiwan, the United Kingdom, and the United States. While it’s not completely customizable, like Surfshark’s Nexus technology allows, its 8 locations put it only two behind NordVPN, which offers 10.

Norton VPN has IP rotation, something not even NordVPN does. Only Surfshark also offers IP rotation among the best VPNs.

While Norton’s version isn’t quite as expansive, it does work in the US, Japan, Canada, Australia, United Kingdom, and Germany. What’s more, it's much simpler to access and connects in almost no time at all, no matter the server you pick. In our testing, our IP seemed to change every few seconds, meaning it should be good enough to give you a new IP for every website you visit.

Pause VPN is the final feature worth mentioning. Overlooked by the likes of PIA and ExpressVPN, pause VPN gives you the choice to temporarily end your VPN connection for a set time. The VPN reactivates once the time ends.

This is a great tool if you just quickly want to search for something or use an app outside of the connection without risking forgetting to turn your VPN back on.

Norton VPN’s Pause VPN system is extremely simple, and easily accessed, though it’d be good to see a minimum pause time shorter than 15 minutes. Most times when we’ve needed it, we’ve been finished in five minutes pretty comfortably.

Again, the only complication with Pause VPN is on the iOS app where you can't activate the feature if you choose the IPSec protocol.

Features score: 8/10

Server Network

Norton VPN’s server network isn’t up there with the very best VPNs quite yet but it's getting there. It's up to 140 worldwide locations, compared to 116 when we last tested. That puts it just above the likes of Windscribe (126 locations), CyberGhost (124), PureVPN (120), and Hotspot Shield (116). NordVPN expanded to 211 server locations in April 2026.

In terms of actual nations covered, Norton VPN has servers in 102 different countries. Again, that's up from last time (72) and better than Le VPN (80), Windscribe (71) and NymVPN (70). The latest additions to Norton's network are Brunei, Canada (Toronto), Germany (Berlin), India, Indonesia, Laos, Pakistan, Qatar, Saudi Arabia and Spain (Zaragoza).

We're pleased to see a number of these new countries are in Asia. Norton VPN's network, like many VPNs, is very much skewed towards the US and Europe which account for 69% of its locations.

Its 27 Asian locations still leave it a fair bit behind market leaders Proton VPN (48 Asian locations), NordVPN (41) and ExpressVPN (36).

Of course, not all of these locations are physical servers. Many, as is the case with most VPNs, are virtual servers located in different countries. That's absolutely fine. You'll still get an IP address of the right country when you connect to them.

Norton VPN's online server locations list is pretty faithful to what we found in our tests. The only slight oddities are when the actual locations of the virtual servers are, in fact, a very long way from where you think you're connected to. That's a problem if you're looking to get the best speeds.

So, for example, the new virtual Brunei location is, in fact, a server in London, which is on the other side of the world. Why not put it in Singapore instead where Norton VPN already has some servers? That would make for a far better performing connection to Brunei from, say, neighbouring Malaysia, or even Brunei itself.

Other than that, we really have few complaints. Norton VPN has done, and is continuing to do, an excellent job of expanding its server network, and we look forward to it catching up with the market leaders in the future.

Server network score: 8/10

Apps

Norton’s VPN app is available for Windows, macOS, Android, and iOS. It’s also available on Apple TV and Android-based smart TVs. For Android TVs, you need version 10 or later, whereas Apple tvOS requires version 17 or later.

Notably, there’s no Linux support, so if you need to cover your Ubuntu or Linux Mint install, Norton won’t cut it quite yet – there’s not even support for a command-line VPN. Norton does not offer configuration files for OpenVPN or WireGuard either, so there’s no way to use Norton with an unsupported device.

Thankfully, Norton VPN announced support for Fire TV devices (running FireOS 8 or later) in March 2026.

It’s worth mentioning that Norton VPN’s apps have several instances of feature disparity. As highlighted already, iOS and macOS users already lack OpenVPN, but these platforms also don't have auto-connect functionality, though Pause VPN, another feature previously omitted, was added to iOS in recent months.

Otherwise, there’s nothing really to dislike about Norton VPN’s apps on any platform. They’re simple to use, easy to navigate, and are so unapologetically Norton-like that anyone new to VPNs who’s familiar with its antivirus tools will feel right at home.

Apps score: 8/10

Ease of use

Norton VPN is a breeze to install. You can put that down to the years of experience the company has with its other products in making complex systems simple to introduce.

Once you’re in, the experience is simple, though at the expense of a couple of handy extra tools. The menus aren’t overcomplicated with features, settings, and data.

The option to set favorites or see the best servers at any time would be nice.

All the settings are all explained in simple enough terms for beginners, and there’s easy access to any extra tools you might have in your plan. There are also plenty of guides to help set up your VPN connection according to your needs.

In true Norton fashion, the experience you have is as close to identical as possible across any device you might have, too. This makes Norton VPN a superb choice should you be new to VPNs.

Even Norton VPN’s Advanced Servers, meaning its P2P-optimized, double VPN, and IP rotation optimized servers, are easily accessed. With dropdown menus giving you the information you need to understand where you’re connecting to, and any additional routing your connection might take.

The piece of usability that feels very buggy, though, is that the VPN disconnects when you enter the settings menu on the iOS app. That's unusual. It would be easy to take a look at the settings, not change anything, and then not notice that your iPhone or iPad doesn't actually have a VPN connection anymore. That feels more than a little insecure and it's surely an easy fix?

Ease of use score: 8/10

Speed and performance

Norton’s speeds have shown steady improvement since our last re-test, and we've got no problem with that at all given they were already very good.

We recorded an average speed of 1010 Mbps over WireGuard from our East USA set-up to the nearest Norton VPN server.

There were six VPNs with higher peak speeds in this round of testing – PrivadoVPN (2334 Mbps), Proton VPN (1475 Mbps), NordVPN (1249 Mbps), ExpressVPN (1177 Mbps), and Surfshark (1021 Mbps) – and only the first few were significantly faster.

Norton VPN's long-distance speeds have also improved since last time. We recorded an average of 782 Mbps when connecting to a UK location from our US East base. That's a lot better than the 463 Mbps from the previous test.

How we perform speed tests

(Image credit: Shutterstock)

We test from a virtual PC in an East USA location. These servers have a 10 Gbps connection. You can find out more in our VPN testing methodology.

Norton VPN came out fourth overall when using the slower but more secure OpenVPN protocol. With scores of 514 Mbps (local) and 307 Mbps (long distance) it's around double what we saw at the last Norton VPN test, so that's great.

It was ExpressVPN (1038 Mbps / 703 Mbps) that topped the OpenVPN charts, and Surfshark (825 Mbps / 851 Mbps) that wasn't too far behind. But Norton can be rightly proud of its results here.

It will be interesting to see if it can push its way into the top tier next time.

Speed and performance score: 8/10

Unblocking

Norton VPN is pretty consistent at unblocking your favorite streaming services. As far as the majors go, it's got you covered. So, whether that's unblocking Netflix libraries for the US, UK, Australia, Canada, and Japan; or picking up Disney Plus, US YouTube, or Amazon Prime Video, you can watch what you want, when you want it, and from anywhere in the world with Norton.

It was equally comprehensive when it came to unblocking free regional streaming services. Norton VPN successfully streamed British services BBC iPlayer, Channel 4 and ITV from outside the UK but we had to try a few different servers when we went to watch Australian services 7Plus and 9Now.

Norton VPN was able to unblock them eventually, but it wasn't the first-time experience that we were hoping for. It was better news for 10Play (Aus) and TVNZ+ (NZ), which it unlocked straight away, though.

These results are certainly good but still behind NordVPN which we rate as the best streaming VPN. NordVPN did fail when it came to US YouTube in our most recent tests, though, so do bear Norton in mind if accessing specifically US YouTube videos is important for your needs.

Norton VPN is also good for torrenting. It has five P2P-optimized servers – three more than when we last tested but it doesn't support port forwarding – something that many might demand of the best VPNs for torrenting. (That's a title that currently belongs to ExpressVPN.)

It’s a fair bit short of the full P2P connectivity of a VPN provider like PIA, but even Avast’s competing SecureLine VPN offers eight P2P servers.

On the plus side, Norton does allow you to connect automatically when you boot up a supported P2P app, but you’ll have to enable this option from the settings menu first.

Unblocking score: 8/10

Privacy and security

Norton has taken the necessary steps to ensure its VPN is secure and private. Its no-logs policy is extensive but clear. It outlines the data collected by the VPN app at any instance.

Your browsing data is never stored on their servers. That includes DNS requests, which are instead served by a private DNS server run by Norton, which prevents ISP spying. Norton has had its no-logs policy audited by a third party to ensure that all of this is up to standard.

In August 2024, VerSprite audited Norton’s policy, noting two issues that could result in sensitive user information being disclosed. Norton addressed these issues, and once remedied, VerSprite agreed that the no-logs policy was both accurate and implemented correctly.

However, Norton does collect some anonymized information from the VPN client. This includes timestamps (connection dates from the past 12 months), platform details such as OS and timezone, and crash logs. It keeps other general application events for 18 months. These include installs, uninstalls, updates and ‘interaction’, and errors.

Norton also aggregates overall data transmission for network planning, which, on its own, is fairly standard.

But, if you are extremely concerned about your privacy, Norton might collect a little too much information for comfort.

Norton is certainly private enough for day-to-day browsing, but you might consider Proton VPN instead if you need even deeper privacy guarantees.

Norton is clearly taking the necessary steps to ensuring its VPN is secure and private."

Rob Dunne - VPN Editor, TechRadar

Something that may ease some privacy concerns would be if Norton VPN implemented RAM-only servers. These servers wipe when rebooted, meaning you cannot store any data on them.

This solves any issues of data requests from the authorities. They can demand all they like but, if it's RAM-only severs, then there's simply is no data to hand over. Many of the best VPNs have a RAM-only infrastructure.

Given its privacy focus, we wanted to know more about Norton VPN’s proprietary Mimic protocol. In addition to offering obfuscation, Mimic is powered by TLS 1.3 ciphers (AES-256 and ChaCha20), as well as ML-KEM-1024 for post-quantum cryptography. It’s good to hear that Norton is already thinking ahead when it comes to quantum security, which puts them significantly in front of most of the VPN industry.

Meanwhile, Norton's standard VPN protocols, OpenVPN and WireGuard, use AES-256-GCM and ChaCha20-Poly1305 encryption, respectively. These are considered the top encryption methods used by all of the best VPNs, a strong demonstration, therefore, of Norton’s intent to found its service on strong privacy staples.

Privacy and security score: 8/10

Track record

Gen Digital, Norton’s parent company, is headquartered in the USA and the Czech Republic. It’s the result of a merger between Avast and Norton in 2022, and it now owns other big-name brands, including Avira, AVG, and CCleaner.

Despite the merger, Norton continues to be run as a separate company with its own range of products. Norton has decades of experience in providing digital security products, but until 2024, the VPN offering has lagged behind the industry standard. That's not the case anymore.

The merger with Avast seems to have been a kickstarter. Norton claims the merger has prompted progress that “combines our ‘best of breed’ technologies to provide safer, faster, and more reliable performance for the customer,” with Norton VPN being the first product to benefit from this work.

The current iteration of Norton VPN is a substantial upgrade from versions we’ve seen in the past."

Rob Dunne - VPN Editor, TechRadar

In the past, Norton VPN had suffered from DNS leaks and a nearly non-existent feature set, both of which have been fixed since. The current iteration of Norton VPN is a substantial upgrade from versions we’ve seen in the past.

It should be noted that the service has now also undergone a no-logs audit, and users can read the in-depth executive summary report at their leisure.

Plus, if you’re concerned about the kinds of requests no-logs policies help protect against, Norton now publishes transparency reports. These reports, updated twice a year, outline all the requests Norton receives from authorities for user data, and explain why Norton is unable to comply with them since its no-logs policy means there’s nothing to provide.

Track record score: 9/10

Customer Support

Norton’s customer support staff are very helpful. There’s a community forum where you can post issues you’re having with Norton VPN, where other members and support staff can pitch in with their own advice. It's a little quiet, though, and responses are slow.

The Norton VPN Android and iOS forum had only five questions posted in the past month when we checked. The Windows forum was even slower with four posts. Two of those hadn't received a single reply.

The dedicated on-site support materials, however, are a different matter. When you search for help topics on Norton’s website, you’re immediately given an AI prompt for your search, which looks like it’s powered by Gemini.

It’s not totally useful when you’re trying to find specific help on a topic, and you have to scroll past it to get to the actual results.

We asked it, "Does Norton VPN support obfuscation?"

The AI could only say, "Norton VPN does not explicitly support obfuscation as a named feature," before going on to talk about IP rotation and Double VPN, instead.

But, then we asked, "What is the best Norton VPN protocol to use in China?" It delivered.

"When using Norton VPN in China, the Mimic protocol is generally recommended as it is designed to bypass VPN restrictions."

So, there's definitely something in there, just not quite a feature to rely all the time.

As for the knowledge base, it’s not particularly in-depth – most of the articles consist of bullet point lists and some are thinly-disguised marketing material.

If you want help with Norton, we’d stick to contacting their customer support directly through the forum or over the phone. There’s also a 24/7 helpdesk upgrade if you need around-the-clock customer service.

Customer support score: 7/10

Pricing and plans

Norton offers three tiers of pricing. The Standard VPN package starts at $59.76 for the first two years, which works out at roughly $2.49 per month. After the introductory offer is over, it renews at $99.99 per year. Avoid the auto-renew and that's a good price for 24 months of VPN service.

What's more, this now includes 10 device connections depending on the plan you choose. This is up from its previous limit of 5, which put it far below the likes of NordVPN and Proton VPN.

Surfshark and PIA do both go even further, offering unlimited device connections on their cheapest subscription plans, though for most 10 connections should be more than enough.

That said, it should also be clarified that Norton’s device limit isn’t a traditional simultaneous connections limit. Instead, Norton’s device limit refers to the number of devices with the VPN installed. Should you wish to install on an 11th (or 21st) device, you’d instead be asked to remove one of the previous devices, rather than simply disconnecting from the VPN.

The next price tier up is Norton VPN Plus. It costs roughly $24 more over two years, making your subscription $3.49 per month, initially, and $119.99 every year after that if you let auto-renew kick in.

Plus brings no meaningful change to the VPN, but you get extra features from Norton’s security suite, including virus protection, password management, dark-web scanning, 10GB encrypted cloud storage, and AI-powered scam detection.

The Ultimate subscription package will again set you back around $24 extra over two years, making it $4.49 per month initially and $149.99 per year after the first.

In addition to extra family-safety features for monitoring your child’s devices, the device count is bumped up to 20. That means you can take full advantage of Norton’s security features on most of your household’s devices, and you get 50GB of secure storage (or 150GB should you activate auto-renewal).

To its credit, Norton offers an above-average 60-day money-back guarantee and a true 7-day free trial when you sign up. We love 7-day free trials as an entry point into VPNs, as they offer a ‘try before you buy’ solution, without some of the hassles caused by a 30-day money-back guarantee. For us, that makes Norton one of the best VPNs for beginners.

Pricing and plans score: 7/10

Should you use Norton VPN?

Norton VPN is a rapidly improving VPN. Since its rebirth in 2024 it’s brought in a spread of features you’d expect to see in a top VPN, alongside some features some top VPNs don’t think to include. Its performance has risen to a point where it can rival top VPNs like Surfshark and NordVPN, it has apps simple enough for anyone to use, and it brings Norton-pedigree security and trust.

That said, there are areas it still needs to address. Sorting the device install limit will add to its already high-value package by reducing connection roadblocks for users. Outside of this, expanding the feature pool, adding Linux support, and eradicating the remaining feature disparities for macOS and iOS users will quickly put Norton VPN among the best value VPNs available if done right. A shade more on speed and unblocking performance wouldn't hurt either.

For many, now might not be the right time to pick up Norton VPN due to any one of the limitations mentioned. That said, it’d be wise to keep an eye on Norton VPN over the coming year or so, as, from what we’ve seen already in 2025 and 2026, it looks as though the provider could quickly become a high-value, high-security VPN from a name well renowned.

Total score: 79/100

Norton VPN alternatives

1. NordVPN – The best VPN overall
NordVPN combines security, speed, and usability in a single VPN package that can’t be beat on value. In addition to lightning-fast servers, NordVPN offers some unique features like Threat Protection Pro, which integrates anti-virus, anti-phishing, and ad-blocking capabilities into a single product. Try it today with a 30-day money-back guarantee.View Deal

2. Surfshark – get the 7-day free trial
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Sorting, managing, editing, and sharing your photographs is a job and a half, often requiring multiple apps just to get on top of the workflow.

I’ve tested several software packages that do a very good job at merging practically every tool you need into a single app, but what’s bugged me is they only cater to Windows users.

Which is why my interest was piqued by ON1’s Photo RAW’s multi-platform capabilities (well, for Windows and Macs - sorry Linux users). So let’s take a look at it.

ON1 Photo RAW 2026: Pricing & plans

(Image credit: Future)

• No subscription model
• You purchase the software outright
• Generous trial period, money back guarantee, what's not to like

The ON1 Photo Raw has a flash sale ending today (August 7), with 50% off - you can check it out by clicking here.

More and more companies have jumped to subscription plans - I'm never a fan of this.

Well, ON1 are having none of that, and its Photo RAW app is only available to own outright. Full price, it costs a very fair $100.

When you consider you can use Adobe Lightroom and Photoshop for $20 a month, not only will you be saving money with Photo RAW after only 5 months.

The software also comes with a very generous 30-day free trial (email address required, but not your credit card details). If you purchase it and conclude it’s not for you, there’s also a 30-day money back guarantee. That means ON1 want to be certain you’ll only buy their software if you’re delighted with it.

You can see what's on offer here.

• Pricing & plans: 5 / 5

ON1 Photo RAW 2026: Interface

(Image credit: Future)

• Plenty of tools
• When all on display, you’re not left with much space for photos
• But thankfully you can hide sidebars at will

I found Photo RAW’s interface to be very well thought out, polished and designed. Perhaps a little too polished, as some actions and concepts weren’t immediately obvious to me.

Like a little hollowed out blue circle being a tick box, or clicking on a menu’s header would collapse or expand its content. But it just takes a few seconds to figure it out and then you’re flying.

There are numerous sidebars on either side, the thinnest one furthest to the left is contextual, depending on the module you’re in. Selecting ‘Home’ shows you some recent photos you’ve worked on, along with those available in recently opened folders. You’ll also find links to helpful tutorial videos.

‘Browse’ reveals the guts of your local hard drives, with every single folder you’ve ever created ready to be accessed, and also offers access to online storage from Dropbox, Google Drive and OneDrive

‘Edit’ is where you’ll work on your photos, and selecting that icon will also reveal additional icons down that sidebar.

If you’re ever puzzled about what a particular icon does, hover over it for a few seconds to reveal a tool tip popup window, complete with a short audioless video illustrating what it does.

When a tool is selected, a toolbar at the top of the interface will offer specific parameters for that selected tool. The other three sidebars can be customised - you can choose if some tools are displayed in the left or right one, or you can remove them from view altogether offering more space to the shot you’re working on.

By default, the large sidebar on the left is for your presets and layer work, while the one on the right is for your regular color correcting tools, and similar. A small sidebar on the far right contains options to share your work either online or by printing it.

• Interface: 4 / 5

ON1 Photo RAW 2026: Editing

(Image credit: Future)

• Tools are easy to use
• Many are made better with the clever use of complex algorithms designed to improve your work rather than supplant it

Now, to start, I downloaded a series of free RAW files from Signature Edits (check out the website here).

If you’ve done any color correction you’ll recognise all the sliders present in the ‘Tone and color’ section on the right, which allow you to make satisfying alterations to an image in next to no time.

But if that just takes too long for you, just above those sliders is a ‘Brilliance AI’ button. Activate it, and complex algorithms will do the necessary changes for you. But unlike many other AI features from competing software, this doesn’t need to be the be all and end all of the process.

Expand Brilliance AI to reveal sliders to enhance or tone down those automatic changes, including some very clever masking options to focus your changes on specific sections, such as people, animals, the sky, and more. You can also just go back to Tone and color sliders to make any further alterations yourself.

Adding Filters is as easy as selecting one you’d like and using one of its preset ‘Styles’. As before you’re also free to make manual changes thanks to the available sliders, if you’re after a more unique look. It’s good to know you can add as many filters as you’d like to an image.

(Image credit: Future)

When it comes to masking, Photo RAW has some complex algorithms ready and waiting to work for you, in the shape of Super Select AI. Clicking on that tool (in the thin left sidebar) lets the software analyze your image. This should only take a couple of seconds. You can then isolate a specific area of an image, modifying it while leaving the rest untouched.

The level of precision you can have with masks is quite extreme. For example, adding to your selection, solely focussing on small sections of your image such as a subject’s eyes, adding a filter to the entire shot, and then removing it for one or two specific areas. You can get amazingly detailed with your alterations.

And if that isn’t enough, you’re able to work with layers, just like you can with Photoshop, superimposing photos on top of others, masking areas, revealing others, adding text. Although to be honest, being used to Photoshop and the like, that section did feel a little too bare in comparison.

What you can do with Photo RAW is remarkably intensive, and it uses those complex algorithms it calls AI in a way that enhances your creativity rather than take over the process, and that can only be lauded.

Should I buy ON1 Photo Raw? FutureFutureFutureBuy it if...

You’re looking for software to organize, manage, alter and share your photos, love the idea of a perpetual licence, and appreciate AI being used as a clever and intricate tool rather than a replacement for your actual vision.

Don't buy it if...

You are too wedded to Adobe’s suite of creative software, or your editing needs are too casual to take advantage of the level of complexity and precision Photo RAW offers.

For more creative tools, we tested the best photo editors.