Windows has a straightforward software removal tool. You can access it via the Start menu, or in the settings interface, and uninstalling is straightforward. Unfortunately, not every piece of software you install will be designed to Microsoft’s strict standards.
Consequently, files and other data will be left behind. While some of these can be manually deleted, this isn’t always the case. This is why third-party app uninstaller software exists for Windows, and one example of this is Geek Uninstaller.
Developed by Thomas Koen, Geek Uninstaller is free to use, but there is also a paid version published by CrystalIDEA Software, a Belgian company.
We’ve evaluated Geek Uninstaller based on performance and features, pricing, and how it compares to competing apps.
Geek uninstaller: Plans and pricing
(Image credit: Geek Uninstaller)
While Geek Uninstaller has an attractive price of zero, it comes with no support and no extra features. If you want more from this capable uninstaller tool, you’ll need the paid version, which happily comes with a free trial.
Costing $24.95, Geek Uninstaller PRO has a lifetime license. In an age of annual subscriptions, this is extremely refreshing. You pay just once to use this software, and it is yours. If you want to use Geek Uninstaller PRO on multiple systems, a portable license is $39.95. This option is ideal for tech support engineers, and the tool can be run from USB.
Geek Uninstaller PRO is also available as a bundle with AnyToISO, an ISO creation tool from CrystalIDEA. This is $34.95 for a standard (single device) license, and $59.95 for the portable, multi-system license.
Volume licensing is available on request for both options.
Geek uninstaller: Features
Geek Uninstaller comes with a collection of software removal tools and features.
App removal
Capable of handling standard apps and Windows Store apps, Geek Uninstaller will oversee the main uninstaller tool. It can also check for leftover data and ensure this is discarded, cleaning your PC of this orphaned data. The force removal feature deals with broken apps and software that will not be uninstalled in the usual way.
Portable
When you download Geek Uninstaller, it comes as a zipped-up EXE file. This means the software doesn’t need to be installed. Instead, you simply double-click the EXE to run it.
As such, Geek Uninstaller can be run from a USB stick, making it totally portable and ideal for anyone performing maintenance or support tasks on multiple PCs. It also runs quickly, displaying the list of installed software without a long scan.
Functional user interface
While other apps might blend into the modern Windows aesthetic, Geek Uninstaller is unpretentiously styled like a classic Windows app. This might be grating for some, but its functional UI relies on classic menu bar and context menu commands. Everyone knows this design language, so there is no confusion when using it to remove persistent software.
Time-saving shortcuts
A handy feature of Geek Uninstaller is the collection of context menu shortcuts. Right-click on each listed app and you can find more about the software, from its dedicated webpage, to where it is installed on your PC (a File Explorer window opens), and its registry entry. There is also the option to search for the software on Google.
From a PC security point of view, these are useful additions that we haven’t seen on any of the other uninstaller apps, additions that could potentially identify malware. If you find unfamiliar software on a PC, these tools should help you work out exactly what it is.
System requirements
Geek Uninstaller is for Windows 11 and Windows 7 through to 10, 32-bit, and 64-bit (it runs as a 64-bit app). If you’re dealing with an older version of Windows, the Uninstall Tool v3.5.10 is available from the Geek Uninstaller website.
Geek uninstaller: Interface and in use
(Image credit: Geek Uninstaller)
One area where Geek Uninstaller stands out is its simplicity. It’s one of the most straightforward software programs we have come across. The design looks like that of many Windows apps you’re familiar with.
After launching the app, it brings up a list of all the applications installed on your PC. From that menu, you can right-click any of them, and you’ll see a drop-down of options, including “uninstall” and “force removal.” Clicking any of these two options will begin the process of wiping away an application. Be careful before you uninstall or force-remove any app because there’s no restore option on Geek Uninstaller.
After you right-click, other options in the drop-down menu include viewing an app's entry of the Windows Registry, opening its installation folder, and visiting the app’s official website. Overall, Geek Uninstaller is very easy to navigate. It’s also multi-lingual, supporting around three-dozen languages.
Geek uninstaller: Support
As noted, there is no support for Geek Uninstaller’s free version.
CrystalIdea maintains a support page for Geek Uninstaller PRO (which the website confusingly refers to as Uninstall Tool). This mainly acts as an index of support articles, but you can also access release notes for each edition of the software. The support articles cover everything from acting as a manual to providing steps for activation, but nothing particularly complex.
There is also a link to the GitHub issue tracker, where you can keep an eye on bugs, problems, or feature request status.
If you run into trouble, the Geek Uninstaller PRO support team can be accessed by email.
How does Geek Uninstaller PRO measure up? Well to start, it has a free version that completes the basic purpose, so if that is all you need, simply use that. Of course, if you need more in-depth functionality, Geek Uninstaller PRO may not measure up to some of the competition. Ashampoo Uninstaller, for example, is extremely feature-packed. Meanwhile, Wise Program Uninstaller is also free and doesn’t have a paid option.
But, you only pay once for Geek Uninstaller PRO – all of the competing paid tools demand annual license payments.
Geek uninstaller: Final verdict
With quite tough competition in the software uninstaller market, Geek Uninstaller and its PRO option need to boast strong features to stand out. Uninstaller tools are common, and the basic functionality is baked into them all.
So, why should you choose Geek Uninstaller? Well, we noticed two highlights that set this tool apart from the competition, in both free and PRO guises. First, the simple ability to track down each app’s website, installation folder, and registry entry, and initiate a Google search from within Geek Uninstaller. This is an excellent feature for IT support teams and can help determine if a piece of immovable software is malicious.
Second, Geek Uninstaller can be run from a USB stick. That again makes it perfect for IT support, but don’t be distracted – Geek Uninstaller is a handy, simple software removal tool that anyone can use.
No design changes, although wider Saatva range has been expanded
MSRP has risen
Updated: February 2024.
Two years after we first reviewed it, the Saatva Classic remains one of the very best mattresses around. There have been no changes to the design, and it still stands out for its impeccable build quality and traditional yet elevated feel. As is the case with many sleep brands, MSRP has risen over the years (when we first reviewed this model, a queen was $1,695, compared to the current price of $1,995). There's almost always a sale on, so you'll never really need to pay ticket price, but you'll still generally be paying more than you would have done in the past. There are more options to choose from nowadays (including within Saatva's own range), but most brands are focusing on foams – there's still nothing similar to the Classic's coil-heavy design.
Saatva Classic mattress: from $1,095 now from $695
Exclusive deal! Head to Saavta using the link here and you'll unlock a discount of $400 off all orders over $1,000. That takes the cost of the queen size down to $1,595, which is a great price for this mattress.View Deal
Saatva Classic mattress: two-minute review
The Saatva Classic mattress is a luxury innerspring hybrid that comes in your choice of three firmness levels and two heights, to suit a wide range of sleeping positions and body types. I slept on the 14.5 inch, queen size Saatva Classic, in a firm feel for three weeks for this review. Simply put, I loved it. In fact, the Saatva Classic holds the coveted top spot in TechRadar's best mattress guide.
As I'll explain further in my Saatva mattress review, this bed has a fairly traditional, responsive, bouncy feel. I loved the mix of bounce, support and cushioning, with the top layer cradling my back, shoulders and hips through a range of sleeping positions. Saatva makes a lot of fuss about its patented Lumbar Zone technology to ensure good spinal alignment, and I definitely felt as though the lumbar support here was a big step above that of cheaper mattresses I've tested, including the Nectar Original (see our Nectar Mattress review for more).
The mattress itself is exceptional, but Saatva also offers perhaps the most comprehensive delivery service of any brand. There's free white glove delivery, which means the mattress is set up in your bedroom and packaging removed, and the delivery people will even take away your old mattress for free toor. This mattress is delivered flat rather than vacuum-packed and rolled (Saatva says this is to keep the premium design in tip-top condition), so having setup handled for you is brilliant. There's also a full year's trial and forever warranty, matching the best you'll find anywhere. In fact, my only minor complaint is the $99 fee for returns and exchanges.
The Saatva Classic sits near the lower end of the premium price bracket, and I think it justifies that slightly higher price with the quality of materials and overall service. If you're looking to invest in a mattress that will last, the Saatva Classic would make a great choice. I'll run through the various testing results in brief below, or read on for my full Saatva Classic mattress review.
Innerspring hybrid, with lots of coils and a bit of foam
Choice of two heights (11.5 or 14.5") and three firmness levels
Luxurious quilted Euro-top with organic cotton cover
The Saatva Classic is an innerspring hybrid mattress that's available in two different heights – either 14.5 inches, reviewed here, or 11.5 inches. The design includes five main layers.
The hotel feel begins with a three-inch Euro-style pillow-top with organic cotton cover and gold detailing. The cover is made from certified organic cotton, a breathable, natural material. (We count this amongst the best pillow-top mattresses around.)
Some bed brands make their covers removable for easier cleaning, but that's not the case here. I think is probably a good thing, as it would undermine the luxury feel that Saatva is going for here. The cover is treated with Saatva's own Guardin botanical antimicrobial treatment to prevent mold or bacteria, but you should probably pop a mattress protector on top anyway.
Within the pillow-top, the central third has something called 'lumbar-zone quilting', which is designed to give you extra support around your lumbar region to help you sleep comfortably in a range of positions.
This was the top of our Saatva Classic, made with breathable organic cotton (Image credit: Future)
Beneath the cover is a section, just in the central third, dedicated specifically to helping protect your spine. It's made using high-density memory foam (that's the best type of memory foam) and 'Active Spinal Wire', which boosts the levels of support beneath the sleeper's lumbar region. This is one of the reasons why the Saatva Classic ranks amongst TechRadar's best mattresses for back pain.
(Do note, however, that if you're specifically after a mattress to tackle lower back pain, there are other Saatva models worth considering – the lead tester in our Saatva Loom & Leaf review experienced a marked improvement in her lower back pain after sleeping on that mattress, and the Saatva RX is specifically designed for to tackle this issue.)
(Image credit: Saatva)
Next up is a layer of 884 individual pocket coils crafted from 14.5-gauge recycled steel, and firmer in the central third, again to support the sleeper's lumbar. That sits on top of a base unit, also made of coils. These are continuous coils rather than pocket coils, which could contribute to the marginally higher levels of motion transfer I found with this mattress (more on that in the Performance section). The base coils are wrapped in a foam encasement to boost edge support and prevent sagging. It also means you can't feel the coils through the edge of the mattress, which always feels a bit more luxe.
Note, there's much less foam here than you'll find in many of today's best hybrid mattresses – the design is mostly coils, so expect a bouncier feel, with less of a sink-in sensation. The Saatva Classic is available in all the usual sizes (it features in TechRadar's best king size mattress guide), including a couple of split options.
Overall, the feel is premium. The design uses high-end materials and the build quality is impeccable, and all the materials feel high-end. Obviously, it's hard to make definitive calls on durability after just a few weeks of testing, but this mattress certainly feels built to last. I expect it to stand up to years of use, proving to be a good investment for the long-term.
Design score: 5 out of 5
Saatva Classic review: Price & value for money
Sits in the premium price bracket, even with regular discounts
Look out for a $400 off deal – usually delivers the cheapest prices
Quality of materials and service mean it's well worth the investment
The Saatva Classic mattress is a luxury innerspring hybrid and therefore costs more than the average hybrid. There's usually a Saatva mattress sale or deal available (Saatva coupons are rare), but even with discounts, it always sits in the premium price bracket. As with many bed brands, the price has crept up a bit over 2023.
I feel that it's well-priced for the build quality and materials used, the level of customization you get in terms of firmness and height, and the overall customer service. You'd pay a lot more for a handcrafted bed of this quality in store, and it's far cheaper than the luxury models from the likes of Purple, Tempur-Pedic and even Casper.
A queen-size Saatva Classic currently retails for $1,995, but for most of 2023 it has been discounted to $1,695. Bigger discounts than that are rare, but TechRadar does sometimes have a semi-exclusive deal that knocks $400 off MSRP, which is well worth taking advantage of. Here's the official 2023 pricing for the Saatva Classic mattress:
If the Saatva is out of your budget, it's worth checking out the DreamCloud. As you'll learn in our DreamCloud mattress review, this hybrid delivers a surprisingly high-end feel for a mid-range price. (See exactly how the two compare: Saatva Classic vs DreamCloud mattress.)
Value score: 4.5 out of 5
Saatva Classic mattress review: Comfort & support
Choose between Plush Soft (3/10), Luxury Firm (5-7) or Firm (8 – reviewed)
Comfortable cushioning rather than a sink-in memory foam feel
Excellent lumbar support for back and side sleepers
The design of the Saatva Classic is very spring-focused and contains relatively little foam (there's only that bit in the central third, and the foam rails around the edges). The quilted pillow-top provides some comfortable cushioning, and the overall feel is more traditional, responsive, and bouncy. Don't expect a the deep, sink-in sensation associated with classic memory foam – something like the Helix Midnight or the Tempur-Adapt is a better choice if you're looking for that.
There are three different firmness options to choose from, and I'll get into who should buy which one below, but for the moment, let's focus on the Firm version, which is the version slept on for my review.
Fear not – it’s not at all like sleeping on a board, since the plush pillow top provides some sink-in value and makes for a very comfortable night's sleep. When I placed a 50lb kettlebell weight in the middle of the Saatva Classic to test for pressure point relief, the sinkage was 1.5 inches, which is minimal.
Our Saatva Classic photographed during the testing period (Image credit: Future)
During my review testing I found the Saatva Classic delivered excellent lumbar support, cradling the spine, hips, shoulders and knees well. I was comfortable in all positions while sleeping and relaxing. Overall I found the Saatva Classic in a Firm feel to be a fantastic choice and believe that if you enjoy a firm mattress, you will likely be pleased with the level of support and comfort here. (It ranks highly in TechRadar's best firm mattress guide.)
However, your mileage may vary, and the Firm option won't be perfect for everyone. Here's a closer look at the different options, and who they might suit:
The Plush Soft option has extra padding in the pillow top, and is recommended for lightweight people who don't sleep well on a firm bed, as those side sleepers who enjoy more of a contouring hug. The Luxury Firm is the most popular choice according to Saatva, and is chosen by 82% of people who buy the Saatva Classic. This firmness is designed to closely match that of luxury hotel beds and is suited to most sleeping styles and body types.
As a rule, the best mattresses for side sleepers tend to be on the softer side, to allow the shoulder and hip to sink into the mattress surface a little preventing pressure from building up while still ensuring the spine is properly aligned. But we'd still usually recommend a minimum firmness of around five out of 10, for all but the lightest weight side sleepers.
(Image credit: Saatva)
Back and stomach sleepers should opt for something firmer, and usually need a firmness of seven or above to ensure the hips don't drop too far into the mattress, leaving the spine poorly supported. However, you should also factor in body weight (the heavier you are, the firmer the mattress you need) and, of course, personal preference.
Mattress firmness is subjective and a number of different factors play into how comfortable you will find the Saatva Classic. That's why, in addition to conducting our own review, we also analyze other customer reviews to see what customers think of it too.
Saatva Classic mattress review: Performance
Good motion isolation, but not as complete as memory foam mattress
Excellent temperature – no issues with overheating
Edge support is fantastic
As well as comfort and support, there are other factors that play into how comfortable a person will find a mattress. This section focuses on three of these factors: motion isolation, temperature regulation and edge support.
Motion isolation
Motion isolation refers to how well a mattress absorbs movements. I share a bed, and while sleeping on the firm feel Saatva Classic, I barely noticed my partner moving in bed next to me. However, don't expect complete motion isolation – I have seen user reviews that say there is some movement on softer versions of the Classic, in particular.
To simulate motion isolation outside of actually testing it with two people on the mattress, I dropped a 10lb weight from a distance of four inches, then from eight inches on one side of the bed where a person would lie, and on the other side of the bed I set an empty wine glass where another person would lie – about 10-12" apart. During both drop tests the wine glass barely moved and never tipped over on the Firm Saatva Classic. This backed-up my real-life experience.
That's a surprisingly strong result, given that mattresses with a higher proportion of springs (like this one) tend to suffer from more motion transfer. I'd say the Saatva Classic will be suitable for most bed-sharers, although if you're a very light sleeper and need total stillness, you might be better off shopping amongst the best memory foam mattresses – these typically deaden movement most effectively.
Motion isolation score: 4 out of 5
Temperature regulation
One member of my review panel is a hot sleeper, but during testing they didn't feel warm when sleeping on the Saatva Classic. The breathable organic cotton cover does a good job at keeping the mattress feeling airy and refreshing. Plus, the dual coils allow air to travel more easily through the mattress, boosting breathability and dispersing body heat. I found that this mattress remained cool to the touch throughout the night.
During my review, I used cooling jersey fabric sheets beneath a percale cotton duvet and a down comforter. Since bedding can make a difference in whether a mattress feels warm or cool, you may want to experiment with different sheets and comforters until you find the most cooling type for you.
Temperature regulation score: 4.5 out of 5
Edge support
The edge support on the Saatva Classic is excellent. Sitting on the edge of the bed is comfortable and there was never a time when I felt as though I might roll right off while sleeping.
(Image credit: Future)
To go the extra mile, I placed my 50lb kettlebell weight on the edge of the bed and noticed it barely registered, sinking in about the same 1-1.5 inches that it did in the middle. In fact, my 50lb dog can sit quite comfortably right on the edge of this mattress. An adult can probably perch here comfortably without any problem.
The Classic wraps all Saatva’s layers in a heavy-duty foam encasement, with high-density foam rails used around the mattress to create a stable edge. This increases your sleeping space as well as making it easier to get out of bed.
Edge support score: 5 out of 5
Saatva Classic mattress review: Customer service
Free white glove delivery to bedroom, option free old mattress delivery
Delivered flat rather, so some maneuvering room required
365 day trial and forever warranty
Saatva offers the most comprehensive delivery service of any mattresses I've come across. White glove delivery is included as standard, for free, including setup in your room of choice. That's helpful because unlike many modern mattresses, this is not a bed-in-a-box – it's delivered flat, rather than vacuum-packed and rolled. So you will need some maneuvering room, but you won't need to do the maneuvering yourself. The higher proportions of springs means this mattress is also pretty heavy.
My test model arrived via two delivery personnel, who carried it in and set it up in my bedroom. They also unwrapped the plastic covering the Classic, then placed the mattress on my bed frame.
Overall, set-up of the Classic is quick, professional and simply requires a signature. There are no boxes, plastic wrap or packaging to dispose of here, and the team will also remove your old mattress for free if you need them to. This is the only bed brand I know of to include old mattress removal for free, though do note Saatva won't remove it if it's stained.
(Image credit: Saatva)
Some new mattresses produce a very noticeable smell and is part of the off-gassing process for some types of mattresses, especially memory foam. There is no off-gassing process with the Saatva Classic since it's a hybrid innerspring and coil model, and I didn't notice any new mattress or plastic smell from the Classic when it was delivered, or within the first few hours or days after delivery.
As with all of Saatva's beds, the Classic comes with a 365-night trial, giving you a whole year to test it for yourself to ensure it's the right choice. If you change your mind during the trial, you will have to pay a $99 processing fee to return the Classic or to exchange it for a different firmness. That fee is fairly unusual, and one of the few things I have to complain about regarding the Saatva customer service offering as impressed with during my review.
Saatva does not resell mattresses that are returned, and instead either donates them to veterans' shelters or gives them to employees. As part of the brand's free white glove delivery service.
Customer service score: 5out of 5
Saatva Classic mattress review: Specs
Saatva Classic mattress review: Other reviews
In order to give you a comprehensive overview of what the Saatva Classic mattress is like to sleep on, I have also analyzed the available user reviews published on the brand's website. Saatva doesn't sell its range at any third party retailers so I can't include reviews from elsewhere.
There are over 3,200 reviews of the Classic on the Saatva site (Nov 2023), most of which are positive and give the Classic an average rating of 4.8 out of 5. Other rating sites like Reseller Ratings and Google Reviews also consist of mainly 5-star ratings.
Many customers praise the Saatva Classic for back pain relief, and how it's supportive and comfortable for all sleeping positions. There's also plenty of praise for customer service.
(Image credit: Saatva)
Of the negative reviews I came across, most were from people who didn't like the firmness they chose. One customer who bought the Luxury Firm described it as too firm, saying: 'We both have back pain with the Saatva mattress but not when sleeping on other mattresses in hotels or in our home.' They were offered a mattress topper as a solution but that didn't resolve the issue.
Another customer simply stated: 'While I don't have anything bad to say about it, we never fell in love with it. It definitely didn't give us that comfy cant wait to crawl into bed feeling.' There we also review comments about motion transfer on the Plush Soft version, and to some extent on the Luxury Firm version.
Several others complained about the $99 processing fee for returns and exchanges. Most companies do not have such a return fee, so Saatva definitely loses points here compared to other leading online mattress manufacturers.
Should you buy the Saatva Classic mattress?
Buy it if...
✅ You want a luxurious mattress: The Saatva Classic is the closest thing you can get to a hotel mattress in your own home. The high-end styling, pillowy cushion top and high build quality, deliver a luxurious feel, and the taller of the two options is particularly sumptuous.
✅ You're happy to invest in a mattress that will last: The Saatva is a premium priced mattress, and I think the quality is well worth the price. A year-long trial and forever warranty give added peace of mind.
✅ You suffer from back pain: The design has several features specifically geared towards keeping your back aligned and lumbar supported. The ability to choose your firmness also means you can pick the perfect option for your body type and sleep style.
✅ You don't want to deal with setup: Saatva offers the most comprehensive delivery service I've come across, with white glove delivery included as standard. You won't have to deal with lugging any boxes anywhere, disposing of packaging, or even getting rid of your old mattress.
Don't buy it if...
❌ You want a memory foam hug: The Saatva Classic has a bit of memory foam, but the overall feel is bouncy and responsive. If you're seeking that quicksand feel, something like a Tempur-Pedic is a better choice.
❌ You're on a lower budget: Not everyone can stretch a premium mattress. A much lower-priced alternative that hits some of the same marks is the DreamCloud mattress. You'll only have one firmness option, though. There's never not a DreamCloud deal on, and prices typically sit in the lower-mid or mid-range brackets.
❌ You're very short on space: Because Classic is delivered flat, you will need enough room for the delivery people to physically get it into place – those with tight corners or cramped elevators to negotiate, beware.
• Original review date: February 2022
• Video-focused model with Panasonic's older contrast detection AF
• Launch price: $2,199 / £1,999 / AU$3,699 (body only)
• Official price now: $2,199 / £1,399 / AU$3,699 (body only)
Update: February 2024. It's been two years since Panasonic launched the GH6 and back then it was the best video tool for the money albeit with one weakness; its autofocus performance for video. Since then, Panasonic has introduced an all-new and improved phase detection AF system for video in its full-frame Lumix S5 II / S5 II X and the micro four thirds Lumix G9 II. However, the GH6 can be had for less in 2024 and still packs a powerful punch for video creatives, especially if autofocus isn't crucial to your workflow. It still very much merits its place in our best video cameras guide, but will it get directly replaced with a newer model with phase detect AF? Let's wait and see. The rest of this review remains as previously published.
Panasonic Lumix GH6: Two-minute review
Last year’s Panasonic Lumix GH5 II was just the appetizer: for would-be filmmakers looking for a small camera with huge creative potential, the Panasonic Lumix GH6 is the true main course.
And what a feast it is: the new flagship in Panasonic’s Lumix G range of mirrorless interchangeable lens cameras based on the Micro Four Thirds mount, the 25.2MP GH6 fits a dizzying array of movie skills into its compact body. There’s 5.7K video at 60fps and Apple ProRes 422 HQ recording, 7.5 stops of in-body image stabilization, 4-channel XLR audio recording and a monitor that can be tilted in almost any direction.
(Image credit: Future)
With full-frame cameras proving popular with filmmakers right now, some might question whether a Micro Four Thirds camera like the GH6 remains an attractive proposition. To us, its appeal is clear: while full-frame sensors might perform better in low light, make it easier to achieve a shallow depth of field in shots and deliver a wider dynamic range, Micro Four Thirds cameras are generally smaller, lighter and more affordable. And because the sensor is smaller, it’s easier to stabilize more effectively.
All of the above applies with the GH6, and its thoughtful design, superb handling and the sheer wealth of video options on offer make it a tool that’ll suit all but the most demanding of mirrorless movie makers. It’s no slouch when it comes to still photography either – its contrast-based autofocus performance (while still not as impressive as some hybrid systems from Panasonic’s rivals) seems markedly improved over the GH5 II’s, and small touches like the dual tally lights and record buttons make a difference too.
After a couple of weeks with the GH6 we’re left in no doubt that this is Panasonic’s most powerful Micro Four Thirds camera to date, and the best MFT camera for filmmakers full-stop. It's also one of the best YouTube cameras out there right now, and certainly one of the best video cameras.
Panasonic Lumix GH6: Price and release date
The Panasonic Lumix GH6 is available to buy now for a body-only price of $2,199 / £1,999 / AU$3,699. If you don't have any Micro Four Thirds lenses to get started, you can also get a 12-60mm zoom lens kit for $2,799 / £2,199 / AU$4,799.
That makes the GH6 slightly more expensive than the Panasonic Lumix GH5 II, another video-focussed hybrid mirrorless Micro Four Thirds model. That camera costs £1,499 / AU$2,499 body only or £1,699 / AU$2,699 with the same 12-60mm lens.
The GH6 is also pricier than the full-frame Panasonic Lumix S5, an L-mount mirrorless model that costs $1,999 / £1,799 / AU$3,199. It isn't Panasonic’s most expensive video-centric mirrorless camera, though: the Netflix-approved Panasonic Lumix S1H L-mount camera launched for $3,999 / £3,599 / AU$5,999 (body only).
(Image credit: Panasonic)
In terms of rivals, the GH6 is in a similar bracket to the Sony A7 IV ($2,499 / £2,400 / AU$$4,299), Canon EOS R6 ($2,499 / £2,499 / AU$4,499) and Nikon Z6 II ($2,600 / £2,549 / AU$4,399) but, depending on where you live, slightly cheaper than all three.
The Blackmagic Pocket Cinema Camera 6K Pro ($2,495 / £2,254 / AU$3,935) is also an interesting alternative given it can also record Apple ProRe, but it does lack many of the creature comforts (like continuous tracking autofocus and a functional stills shooting mode) that the GH6 provides.
Your decision on whether to go for the Panasonic Lumix GH6 or one of its many rivals could also hinge on the discounts we see in the incoming Black Friday camera deals. While the GH6 is a relatively new camera, we did see the Lumix GH5 II get some impressive discounts in Amazon's Prime Day sales earlier this year. So if you're on the fence, we definitely recommend waiting to see what the Black Friday deals bring.
Panasonic Lumix GH6: Design and handling
The GH6’s body shape is immediately familiar: it’s that well-worn, DSLR-inspired design used by most of Panasonic’s Lumix G series. It might not be particularly original, but it works: there’s a big textured grip to wrap your right hand around while your left supports the lens, and a nice clear OLED electronic viewfinder with 3.68-million dots for composing, previewing and reviewing your shots no matter how bright the weather conditions.
Speaking of weather conditions, the body is sealed against dust and water ingress (it’s not officially IP-rated as far as we can see, but Panasonic calls it “dust and splash resistant”) and is built on a rugged magnesium alloy frame for toughness. It’ll also work to temperatures as low as -10ºC/14ºF.
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(Image credit: Future)
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The physical buttons, wheels and dials are thoughtfully positioned, and as frequent users of the GH5 II we found the GH6 to be pleasingly familiar to control and use. Panasonic has considerately placed a second video record button on the front of the camera (the first is up on the top plate), which is really helpful for vlogging and other self-shooting work. There are also tally lights both front and back to make it clear when you’re recording, which you don’t get on the GH5 II.
The 3-inch touchscreen is the best we’ve seen on a recent Panasonic Lumix GH model, with a super-flexible design: not only does it flip and twist, it also tilts – just like the screen on the full-frame Panasonic Lumix S1H. Not only does that give you greater scope for shooting at unusual angles, it also lets you attach both a USB and a full-size HDMI cable to the GH6 without blocking your view of the screen.
The body itself is lightweight and compact considering its impressive array of specs – a key benefit of the small physical size of its image sensor. Without a lens attached but with an SD card and battery inserted, the GH6 weighs just 823g, and measures 138.4 x 100.3 x 99.6mm, which makes it only slightly bigger than the GH5 II. The added bulk here seems to come as a consequence of the new forced-fan cooling system, which causes the screen to bulge out from the back slightly. But it’s still a fairly trim package overall, with handling that makes it a joy to use in the vast majority of situations.
Panasonic Lumix GH6: Features and autofocus
Being a video-first hybrid, the connectivity of the GH6 appears to have been given lots of thought.
There’s a full-size HDMI Type A that can output video up to C4K 4:2:2 10-bit at 60fps, headphone and microphone ports and XLR microphone compatibility (via the optional DMW-XLR1 accessory), while the USB-C port with 10Gbps transfer speed that can also be used as a constant power supply, a battery charger and (following a recent firmware update) for direct recording to a 2TB external SSD.
There are two card slots, one for standard SD and the other for CFexpress Type B cards (a first on a Lumix G camera, and vital for recording video in some of the more demanding formats like ProRes). CFexpress cards are expensive, so do factor that in when budgeting.
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The contrast-based DFD autofocus setup is similar to that of the GH5 II, with a wide range of options available, including automatic tracking of moving objects and detection settings that will recognize and track human, animal and eye/face subjects. The tracking generally works well – a lot better than on previous Panasonic cameras, we feel – but you do occasionally notice a “pulse” when the AF system is hunting down a lock.
This just seems to be a side-effect of contrast detection, and one that users will need to accept, but the GH6 does seem markedly better here than the GH5 II. One useful way you can avoid too much hunting here is to use the new autofocus limiter option, which lets you set a range for the AF – it won’t attempt to focus on anything outside of that; handy if you’re filming a subject that isn’t moving about too much.
A lot of filmmakers use manual focus, of course, and the GH6 is impressive here, too: when you begin to twist the lens ring to focus, the screen or viewfinder shows a zoomed-in preview of your subject to help you get things perfect, and you can also turn on focus peaking to identify the sharpest areas in a contrasting color.
Last and certainly not least, the GH6’s 5-axis image stabilization system has been given an algorithmic upgrade over the GH5 II’s, and Panasonic claims it now offers up to 7.5 stops of correction – to the point where you can shoot a 100MP photograph in the image-stacking High Resolution mode handheld (previously, a tripod was required).
We tried that and it worked really well, but it’s superb for video too: if you want to record to-camera vlogs while walking, or film moving subjects with an almost gimbal-like steadiness, the GH6’s stabilization makes it one of the best cameras we’ve seen at smoothing out motion in a way that seems natural.
Panasonic Lumix GH6: Image and video quality
There’s a truly mind-boggling level of customizability to the video here. We were impressed by the GH5 II’s wealth of formats, resolutions and frame rates, but the GH6 takes things to even greater heights.
The lengthy list of video options might seem like overkill to the casual user, but filmmakers will be rubbing their hands together at the creative possibilities offered by the likes of Apple ProRes, 5.8K anamorphic, 5.7K resolutions and variable frame-rate recording, as well as the fact that almost all the recording modes are 10-bit rather than 8-bit.
At launch, ProRes 422 and 422 HQ is available only for 5.7K recording (at 60/50/24fps), but a forthcoming firmware update should add options for using it at lower resolutions including Full HD and Cinema 4K ProRes. Currently, you can also shoot 4K at up to 120fps and Full HD at up to 240fps (ideal for slow motion playback and speed ramping) and 10-bit Cinema 4K 4:2:2 at up to 60fps.
Panasonic has included a wide range of picture profiles (called “photo styles” here) including Cinelike D2, Cinelike V2, Like709, V-Log and HLG. So there’s a lot of scope for filmmakers who want to color grade their footage afterwards.
The GH6 also comes with a new feature called Dynamic Range Boost which Panasonic claims expands V-Log’s dynamic range from 12+ stops to 13+ stops. In testing, we didn’t spot a big difference coming from using it, but we suspect it’s something that will be more noticeable to those meticulously grading and color correcting their footage in Premiere, Final Cut Pro or Resolve.
Unlike some of its mirrorless rivals, the GH6 shouldn’t experience overheating issues that limit the length of its recording times and necessitate a long cooling-off period before recording can resume. Panasonic has fitted it with a new forced-fan cooling system which it claims will remove all overheating problems, so the only thing limiting recording length should be storage capacity. We certainly experienced no issues with heat during our testing period.
The only imaging issue we suspect the GH6 might face is its low-light performance. The small physical size of the sensor on Micro Four Thirds cameras often means their light-gathering abilities seem limited in comparison to the larger APS-C and full-frame sensors employed by other mirrorless cameras. But if you're aware of that and are willing to work around it, we can’t see it being a huge barrier to achieving good results. As you can see from our test footage above, our twilight shots came out fairly well.
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While the video side of the GH6 is definitely the one getting all the attention, like previous GH Lumix cameras it’s a hybrid camera with a lot of thought put into the still photography side of things. There’s a mechanical shutter, the standard M/A/P/S selection of shooting modes and a wide range of options for specialist stills shooting, including the aforementioned 100MP image-stacking High Resolution mode and some extremely fast burst shooting (up to 75 shots per second with the electronic shutter).
The small sensor size and relatively small ISO range (50-25600 for still photography in extended mode, or 250-12800 in V-Log) hint at the GH6’s main issue when compared to full-frame rivals: it’s not particularly comfortable in low-light situations. It will do a passable job, but we wouldn’t advise anyone to shoot an indoor wedding or concert photos with one of these – it’s far more comfortable outdoors in abundant light.
Ed: As of March 2024, Driverfix has stopped operations. In a FAQ published on its site, the company announced that "We've made a strategic decision to halt the processing of new transactions and discontinue all automatic renewals. For our existing customers who have already made payments, we want to reaffirm that we're committed to supporting our product and delivering technical services right up to the conclusion of your billing cycle."
DriverFix is a driver monitoring and driver update software package for Windows. It scans all your device drivers and searches the web for the most recent updates. Where applicable, it lets you update them right away, or download the missing ones.
DriverFix, Inc is the eponymous company behind the DriverFix software program. We’ll review the program based on specific criteria, including plans and pricing, features, customer support, user interface, and so on.
Plans and pricing
DriverFix is available through a monthly or annual subscription. You either pay month-to-month or pay for a yearly subscription that’s significantly discounted compared to the monthly option. There’s also a free trial version available but of limited functionality.
DriverFix has three paid plans and a 60-day money-back guarantee (Image credit: DriverFix)
DriverFix has three distinct plans and you can purchase the Personal Pack for $19.95 annually or $4.75 per month, the Family Pack for $29.95 annually or $7.13 per month or the Extended Pack for $39.95 annually or $9.51 per month.
Given the significant discounts applied to the yearly payment, it’s wise to pick it over the monthly option.
There’s a 60-day money-back guarantee. However, to get a refund, you must show that you’ve removed the software from your computer and returned the PC to its previous state, which could be very difficult to do.
DriverFix found 13 updates to the drivers on our Windows 10 test machine (Image credit: DriverFix)
Features
Automatic scans and updates
DriverFix lets you scan your entire PC for missing or outdated drivers at any time. Afterward, you can update the outdated ones or download the missing ones afresh.
DriverFix scans your drivers against a vast database of over 18 million driver files. Hence, you’re always likely to find the correct drivers on that database.
Driver Backup and Restore
DriverFix lets you back up and save your PC drivers into a compressed zip file. This feature is necessary because a driver update can sometimes cause malfunctions. Hence, if you have the previous backup of whichever driver is malfunctioning, you can just restore it and move on.
Schedule Manager
With DriverFix, you can set schedules to scan your PC drivers and ensure they’re always in check. For example, you could set DriverFix to run automatic scans whenever your PC boots afresh. This way, you’ll make sure that your drivers are up-to-date and complete at all times.
DriverFix lists the drivers that need to be updated and the dates new drivers were made available (Image credit: DriverFix)
One-click Update
Suppose you run a DriverFix scan and see that over a dozen drivers need updating on your PC. You don’t have to take your valuable time to update them individually. DriverFix lets you update all outdated drivers by clicking a single button.
Interface and in use
To get DriverFix, you first need to download the installation file from the official website. You can download the file for the free or paid version, depending on your choice. For the paid version, you first need to make the required payment. DriverFix accepts several payment methods, including credit and debit cards, PayPal, WebMoney, and wire transfer.
If you use uBlock Origin or any other content filtering service, you may see that it blocks the DriverFix download for supposedly being malware. This block is likely a false positive.
DriverFix has a minimal user interface with all of its various tools available from a menu on the left hand side (Image credit: DriverFix)
After downloading, you’ll see that DriverFix has a user-friendly interface. Once the program starts up, it scans your PC for outdated and missing drivers and gives you immediate results. Missing our outdated drivers are shown in a list. Afterward, you can update the drivers individually if you’re on the free version or update all of them with one click on the paid tier.
One drawback about using DriverFix’s free version is the popups you get in the middle of your screen urging you to update your drivers. These pop ups are usually annoying and feel intrusive. However, getting the paid version removes them.
DriverFix’s main avenue of support is via 24/7 live chat (Image credit: DriverFix)
Support
DriverFix offers technical and customer support through email and live chat. There’s meant to be a FAQ page but clicking the link takes you to a contact form for some reason. Also, the company claims to have telephone support but has no contact number listed on its website.
The competition
DriverFix is one of many driver update tools available on the market. Some notable competitors include AVG Driver Updater and Auslogics Driver Updater. DriverFix has similar functionalities to Auslogics but is considerably more expensive. However, it’s significantly cheaper than AVG.
Final verdict
When it comes to keeping your drivers in check, DriverFix is the perfect tool. It may lack extra features of rival driver updaters, but it performs its primary task excellently. It’s also a good bang for the buck because an annual license supports use on multiple PCs.
Ed: As of March 2024, Driverfix has stopped operations. In a FAQ published on its site, the company announced that "We've made a strategic decision to halt the processing of new transactions and discontinue all automatic renewals. For our existing customers who have already made payments, we want to reaffirm that we're committed to supporting our product and delivering technical services right up to the conclusion of your billing cycle."
DriverFix is a driver monitoring and driver update software package for Windows. It scans all your device drivers and searches the web for the most recent updates. Where applicable, it lets you update them right away, or download the missing ones.
DriverFix, Inc is the eponymous company behind the DriverFix software program. We’ll review the program based on specific criteria, including plans and pricing, features, customer support, user interface, and so on.
Plans and pricing
DriverFix is available through a monthly or annual subscription. You either pay month-to-month or pay for a yearly subscription that’s significantly discounted compared to the monthly option. There’s also a free trial version available but of limited functionality.
DriverFix has three paid plans and a 60-day money-back guarantee (Image credit: DriverFix)
DriverFix has three distinct plans and you can purchase the Personal Pack for $19.95 annually or $4.75 per month, the Family Pack for $29.95 annually or $7.13 per month or the Extended Pack for $39.95 annually or $9.51 per month.
Given the significant discounts applied to the yearly payment, it’s wise to pick it over the monthly option.
There’s a 60-day money-back guarantee. However, to get a refund, you must show that you’ve removed the software from your computer and returned the PC to its previous state, which could be very difficult to do.
DriverFix found 13 updates to the drivers on our Windows 10 test machine (Image credit: DriverFix)
Features
Automatic scans and updates
DriverFix lets you scan your entire PC for missing or outdated drivers at any time. Afterward, you can update the outdated ones or download the missing ones afresh.
DriverFix scans your drivers against a vast database of over 18 million driver files. Hence, you’re always likely to find the correct drivers on that database.
Driver Backup and Restore
DriverFix lets you back up and save your PC drivers into a compressed zip file. This feature is necessary because a driver update can sometimes cause malfunctions. Hence, if you have the previous backup of whichever driver is malfunctioning, you can just restore it and move on.
Schedule Manager
With DriverFix, you can set schedules to scan your PC drivers and ensure they’re always in check. For example, you could set DriverFix to run automatic scans whenever your PC boots afresh. This way, you’ll make sure that your drivers are up-to-date and complete at all times.
DriverFix lists the drivers that need to be updated and the dates new drivers were made available (Image credit: DriverFix)
One-click Update
Suppose you run a DriverFix scan and see that over a dozen drivers need updating on your PC. You don’t have to take your valuable time to update them individually. DriverFix lets you update all outdated drivers by clicking a single button.
Interface and in use
To get DriverFix, you first need to download the installation file from the official website. You can download the file for the free or paid version, depending on your choice. For the paid version, you first need to make the required payment. DriverFix accepts several payment methods, including credit and debit cards, PayPal, WebMoney, and wire transfer.
If you use uBlock Origin or any other content filtering service, you may see that it blocks the DriverFix download for supposedly being malware. This block is likely a false positive.
DriverFix has a minimal user interface with all of its various tools available from a menu on the left hand side (Image credit: DriverFix)
After downloading, you’ll see that DriverFix has a user-friendly interface. Once the program starts up, it scans your PC for outdated and missing drivers and gives you immediate results. Missing our outdated drivers are shown in a list. Afterward, you can update the drivers individually if you’re on the free version or update all of them with one click on the paid tier.
One drawback about using DriverFix’s free version is the popups you get in the middle of your screen urging you to update your drivers. These pop ups are usually annoying and feel intrusive. However, getting the paid version removes them.
DriverFix’s main avenue of support is via 24/7 live chat (Image credit: DriverFix)
Support
DriverFix offers technical and customer support through email and live chat. There’s meant to be a FAQ page but clicking the link takes you to a contact form for some reason. Also, the company claims to have telephone support but has no contact number listed on its website.
The competition
DriverFix is one of many driver update tools available on the market. Some notable competitors include AVG Driver Updater and Auslogics Driver Updater. DriverFix has similar functionalities to Auslogics but is considerably more expensive. However, it’s significantly cheaper than AVG.
Final verdict
When it comes to keeping your drivers in check, DriverFix is the perfect tool. It may lack extra features of rival driver updaters, but it performs its primary task excellently. It’s also a good bang for the buck because an annual license supports use on multiple PCs.
• Original review date: March 2022 • Instinct 3 rumored for launch • Launch price: $349.99 / £299.99 / AU$549 • Official price now: $349.99 / £299.99 / AU$549
Update: November 2024. In 2024 the Garmin Instinct 2 is still one of the best Garmin Watches on the market, especially for outdoor adventure. It hasn't changed since its first release, boasting a great range of sizes, a slim but tough chassis, great training tools, very good GPS, and formidable battery life.
Maps remain a small weakness, but otherwise, this is a great pick. At two years old, it's also a prime candidate for a hefty discount during major sales events, so it really pays to shop around for a bargain. That's even more true now that a rumored Instinct 3 should be just around the corner. You might want to wait, but early signs indicate the upgrade might not be huge, making the Instinct 2 a great alternative choice.
Two-minute review
What sets the Garmin Instinct 2 apart from other running watches in its price band are its tough build and practical design. It’s thoughtfully crafted and no-nonsense, but unlike the original Garmin Instinct, it’s is fun rather than austere. It’s still hard as nails for tough outdoor use, with exceptional battery life (factors that made the original Instinct one of our all-time favorite running watches), but the Instinct 2 also lends itself well to extreme sports where it’s going to take more than a few knocks and spills. Want a watch for skating or BMX? Look no further.
This fun new direction is reflected in a jazzier color palette, including hues like poppy red and electric lime, and the new ability to download custom apps and faces to make the watch your own. It’s certainly not a subtle watch, but it’s loud in a self-aware way.
(Image credit: Future)
Although not cheap, the Instinct 2 is one of the more affordable watches in Garmin’s current lineup, which again makes it an appealing choice if you’re younger and not planning to drop over $500 on a watch like the Fenix 7 or Forerunner 945.
Battery life for all versions of the watch is very impressive, and the models topped with Garmin’s photovoltaic Power Glass are very tough to beat. Even if your lifestyle means you don’t catch enough rays to keep the watch running indefinitely, it’ll easily last weeks between charges rather than days.
The Instinct 2’s monochrome memory-in-pixel (MIP) display is a sensible choice – clearly visible in all lighting conditions and modest in its power consumption – but it does have one significant drawback, and that’s navigation. While the Instinct 2 does allow you to upload your own custom courses via Garmin Connect, and can track your location and lead you back to the start, maps on the screen are very basic. There’s only a line to show your route, and an arrow to lead you in the right direction – no road markings, landmarks, or other details to help you find your way.
GPS accuracy is excellent though, and in our pre-measured 5km test, the Instinct 2 was accurate to within a handful of meters. Heart rate tracking is excellent as well, and thanks to the new smaller 40mm case option, it’s more practical and comfortable to wear at night so you benefit from full 24-hour health tracking.
(Image credit: Future)
Price and release date
Launched early 2022
Mid-range price
The Garmin Instinct 2 launched on February 9, 2022. Prices range from $349.99 / £299.99 / AU$549 for the standard edition watch, through to $499.99 / £429.99 / AU$749 for the solar tactical and surf editions, placing it squarely in the mid-range when it comes to running watches.
The original Instinct retailed at $399 / £269.99 / AU$299.99 when it went on sale in 2018, so the new watch is actually slightly cheaper than the original if you’re based in the US. That’s a pretty great deal considering how much more the second-gen device has to offer. There are Garmin promo codes that could save you more too.
Watch models
45mm and 40mm case options
Power Glass models available
Tactical, Surf, Camo, and Dezl editions
The Garmin Instinct 2 isn’t a single watch, but an entire series. First of all, there are now two case sizes to consider: the standard 45mm, and a new 40mm diameter model. The watch we tested here was the 40mm Garmin Instinct 2S, and although 5mm shaved off the case size might not sound like much, it makes the watch much more comfortable and practical for smaller wrists.
You can also take your pick from standard or solar models, the latter of which uses Garmin’s Power Glass to gather energy from the sun and extend battery life. You’ll still need to give the watch an initial charge, and heavy use will gradually discharge it, but if your needs are modest and you soak up a decent amount of daylight on a regular basis (Garmin gives the example of working as a lifeguard) then you may never need to charge it up again.
(Image credit: Future)
The solar models are a little more expensive, but the photovoltaic material doesn’t have any effect on the look of the display, so it’s well worth considering the extra investment to avoid frequent charging.
As with the original Instinct, there are also special Surf, Tactical, and Camo editions of the Instinct 2. The Surf edition adds extra tools including tide data and a dedicated surf tracking mode that records details including waves surfed, maximum height, and distance travelled. It also comes with Garmin’s Surfline app pre-installed, showing conditions at your five nearest surf spots.
The Tactical edition has a stealth mode that cuts off all wireless communications, a screen mode designed for reading with night vision goggles, and a killswitch that deletes all data stored on the watch, including location information. It also has Garmin’s Jumpmaster app installed for skydiving.
The Camo edition doesn’t add any extra functions or apps, but has a camouflage patterned band and case.
The Instinct 2 is also available in a Dezl edition for professional truck drivers, which connects to Garmin’s in-cab navigation systems and can show important health stats and alerts on the bigger screen. It syncs with a new Dezl app, which can guide truckers through simple exercise routines while they’re taking a break.
(Image credit: Future)
Design and display
Slimmer than original Instinct
Relatively lightweight
Monochrome MIP display
Garmin is leaning on the youth angle with the Instinct 2, and the watch’s overall look is leaner than its predecessor, even if you opt for the classic 45mm resin case rather than the compact 40mm. There’s no difference in weight (both old and new watches weigh 52g), but while the original Instinct was 15.3mm thick, the second-gen watch has been slimmed down to 14.5mm. That’s a tiny difference, but paired with a slightly simplified bezel design, it makes the new watch feel significantly less cumbersome.
The 40mm Instinct 2 S we tested is leaner still at 13.3mm, and when placed on the scales it weighed 43g including the silicone band. Garmin’s quoted weight is 42g, but there’s always a little variability between devices.
For comparison, the 41mm Apple Watch 7 weighs 32g in aluminum, 42.3g in stainless steel, and 37g in titanium. Its 45mm counterpart is 38.8g in aluminum, 51.5g in stainless steel, and 41.5g in titanium.
(Image credit: Future)
While the original Instinct came in a fairly sober range of colors, the second-gen watch is available in some much brighter shades including poppy red and electric lime – there are even some dual-color options if you choose the Surf edition, or you can switch the band for something different using the quick release pins on the back.
Like the original Instinct, the Instinct 2 has a monochrome memory-in-pixel display, with a small circular cut-out that shows contextual information while you’re navigating through menus, and can show data like the current date, your step count, or calories burned while you’re using the device in smartwatch mode.
The Instinct 2’s display has a much higher resolution than its predecessor – 176 x 176 pixels compared to 128 x 128 pixels for the original. This results in clearer text and icons, and means Garmin has been able to fit more data onto the display at once without sacrificing legibility,
(Image credit: Future)
A monochrome face might seem an odd choice when more and more smartwatches are arriving with bright color displays, but it makes a lot of sense for the Instinct 2. It uses far less power than an AMOLED display (like that of the Garmin Epix and Venu 2), and it offers more contrast than a color MIP screen (which was one of our few complaints about the Garmin Fenix 7).
There are a few drawbacks, though. It can be tougher to differentiate between different stats at a glance – you can’t check your heart rate zone by simply glancing at a color-coded icon, for example – and it’s not so great for maps.
The lack of a touchscreen isn’t ideal for maps either, as it makes panning tricky, though the five-button interface is handy for all other functions and works well with wet or gloved hands. All buttons are clearly labelled, too
Battery life
Indefinite for solar models
Longer for 45mm watches than 40mm
As always, the longevity of this watch's battery will vary depending on how you use it. Functions like SpO2 monitoring and GPS will drain power more rapidly, but if you've opted for one of the solar models, you can expect your Instinct 2 to last much, much longer between charges.
Here are Garmin's quoted figures for the regular and solar editions of the Instinct 2 and the smaller Instinct 2S:
Those are the most impressive figures we've seen for any running watch to date, and Garmin assures us that for the solar 45mm model, indefinite battery life is a real possibility,
In our tests, the Garmin Instinct 2S Solar lasted approximately two weeks with no sunlight exposure and an average of one workout per week. When exposed to sunlight, however, the battery meter barely dropped, even with SpO2 monitoring and regular use of GPS for activity tracking. Although the power level is gradually declining and won't last forever, at the time of writing we've not needed to give it a second charge.
When you eventually do need to juice it up, the Garmin Instinct 2 and Instinct 2S both use the same proprietary USB cable as the rest of Garmin's watches, which plugs securely into the back of the case.
(Image credit: Future)
Smartwatch features
24-hour health monitoring
Garmin Pay
Remote music controls
The original Garmin Instinct was a brilliant sports watch, but its chunky, utilitarian design meant it wasn’t one we were inclined to wear it as a regular timepiece. The Garmin Instinct 2’s slimmer profile, optional 40mm case and new colorways mean it’s fun rather than purely functional, so you’re more likely to wear it as an everyday smartwatch.
When you do, you’ll benefit from a wealth of everyday health monitoring features, including Garmin's Body Battery tool, which tracks factors including heart rate, sleep, and activity to tell you how much energy you have for the day ahead. It’s not unlike Fitbit and Oura’s readiness scores, but unlike those metrics, your Body Battery score is updated throughout the day so you can balance activity and rest on the fly.
There’s no microphone, so you can’t take calls or use your phone’s voice assistant from your wrist as you can with the Garmin Venu 2 Plus, but if you own an Android phone then you can automatically reject calls with a text message. Like many of the watch’s more advanced features, that’s easy to set up and customize in the Garmin Connect app.
Unlike the original Instinct, the Instinct 2 allows you to download additional faces and apps from Garmin Connect IQ. The watch’s dual-screen design means it’s not compatible with Garmin’s custom face designer, but the extra options let you prioritize the data and tools that really matter to you – or just pick something that looks a bit slicker than the default design.
(Image credit: Future)
The Instinct 2 also supports Garmin Pay for making contactless purchases and paying for public transport, and you can use it to control the music on your phone without digging through your pockets for your handset. That's particularly useful in cold weather, as the watch's buttons are easy to operate while wearing gloves.
Fitness tracking
Wide range of activities (plus multi-sports mode)
Advanced training tools for running, cycling, swimming
Screen doesn't work well for mapping
Like all Garmin watches, the Instinct 2 offers extremely accurate GPS; in our measured 5km test it was accurate to within 50 meters, which is one of the best results we’ve ever seen from a running watch. It’s quick to establish a satellite lock as well, so you won’t be waiting around in the cold before you start your run, walk or ride.
There are profiles for a huge range of activities, with a multi-sport mode for events like triathlons and duathlons so you don't have to stop tracking between each stage. You can take your pick from the entire list any time, but when setting up the watch you’ll be prompted to choose just a handful that you use most frequently. When you press the activity button (top right) it’ll select the activity in the middle rather than the top of the list to minimize scrolling – the type of small but thoughtful touch that characterizes the Instinct 2.
(Image credit: Future)
The watch will detect certain activities automatically, and while some older Garmin watches had a habit of recording unknown workouts as elliptical training, the Instinct 2 does a great job of differentiating between them.
As is usually the case, though, it's runners, cyclists and swimmers who get the most training tools. These include suggested run workouts (a handy way to ensure you're mixing up your training and not getting stuck in a rut), training load (so you can avoid under- or over-training), and training effect (so you can see whether your last workout was chiefly aerobic or anaerobic).
(Image credit: Future)
These are all tools we've seen in other recent Garmin running watches, and we're pleased to see that they've made their way to the mid-range Instinct as well. This isn't a watch built with seriously competitive athletes in mind, but those at an earlier stage in their fitness journey stand to gain a lot from this kind of bespoke guidance.
Recovery time is also an extremely useful tool; even if you're a regular runner or rider, you might be surprised just how long it can take to recover from an intense effort, and if you don't get sufficient rest then the Instinct 2 will factor this in and extend your recovery period.
(Image credit: Future)
We put the watch to the test for several sweaty indoor cycling sessions, and found that the watch quickly detected changes in heart rate throughout the workout, and once we were done, accurately identified which heart rate zones we were training in. The watch remained comfortable throughout, and sat comfortable against our skin as the temperature rose – something recorded by the watch’s built-in thermometer.
The Instinct 2 will also track your respiration rate, which is useful during workouts and at night, when it can be a handy indicator of how deeply you're sleeping.
The only real downside for the Instinct 2 is mapping. It’s possible to create routes in Garmin Connect and transfer them to to watch (a process that’s quick and easy), but when you come to use them, the lack of on-screen detail means finding your way can be surprisingly tricky.
(Image credit: Future)
The screen’s small sub-window provides a useful directional arrow to help you get your bearing, but the lack of information on-screen means you’ll have to really pay attention to make sure you’re going the right way. If you’re hoping to use your watch to navigate new areas regularly, you’ll be much better served by the Garmin Fenix 7, which absolutely excels here.
Companion app
Deep insights into historic data
Biometrics clearly presented and explained
The Garmin Instinct 2 syncs with the excellent Garmin Connect app, which is one of the most refined and well developed of its kind. All your daily stats are presented in a fully customizable dashboard, with panels to show metrics such as heart rate, Body Battery (your current energy level), sleep score, stress recent workouts, and much more. You can add, remove, and rearrange panels to suit your preferences, and any changes will be saved for future use.
(Image credit: Future)
Tapping a panel will open a more detailed view, showing information from the last day, week, month, and even further back. Unlike some apps (we’re looking at you, Fitbit) there’s no separate fee to pay in order to review historic data and look for trends that can give you a better understanding of your habits and their effects. Every metric is clearly explained, with an information screen describing exactly what it means for your health; unlike some apps, Garmin Connect doesn't expect prior knowledge.
If you don’t have time to browse through historic stats, that’s not an issue – the app will provide you with occasional ‘insights’ based on your lifestyle and workouts. For example, if you tend to take fewer steps on a Thursday, the app will nudge you to get outside and take a stroll before the day is out.
There's also no charge to use the various workout programs included with Garmin Connect, including the bespoke cycling and running plans that can help you prepare for a new event, or aim for a personal best.
Just enter a few key details including the time you hope to achieve, and how many times per week you want to train, then select a coach and the app will put together a personalized plan just for you, which you can sync with your Instinct 2. The plan will adapt on the fly based on your performance in training sessions, and will even shift workouts around if you decide you need to skip a day.
(Image credit: Future)
As we mentioned earlier, you can also use Garmin Connect to plan routes and transfer them to your running watch, but that's a feature that works best with watches like the Fenix 7 or Epix (Gen 2); to get the most out of the navigation tools, you really need a high-res color display that can show streets, paths, and landmarks.
The app will, however, tell you a lot about yourself, and taking time to drill through the various options in the Training, Health Stats, and Performance Stats menus will show you the impact your efforts are having on your health, and spur you on to tweak your regular workouts.
Buy it if
You're hard on your watches The Instinct 2 might be slimmer than its predecessor, but it's still built like a tank and will shrug off serious knocks.
You want to leave the charger at home The Instinct 2 offers extremely long battery life, and the solar edition can keep running indefinitely with sufficient sunlight.
Don't buy it if
You want to go exploring The Garmin Instinct 2's monchrome MIP display means it doesn't handle maps all that well. Sure, you can upload routes, but with limited detail visible on-screen, you might have a hard time following them.
IObit Driver Booster is a PC optimization tool made by IObit, an American software company. Apart from Driver Booster, IObit has many other products, including a software uninstaller, VPN, screen recorder, antivirus, and more.
IObit released the first Driver Booster a long time ago and has released many more updated versions. This review is for IObit Driver Booster 12, released in 2024. We’ll judge it based on specific criteria, including features, pricing, compatibility, ease of use, and more.
IObit Driver Booster: Plans and pricing
Anyone can download a free version of the IObit Driver Booster, but it has limited functionalities. For instance, you'll only have access to a more limited driver database (9,500,000 compared to 15,000,000) and slower driver download speeds. You’ll need to pay for the premium version to make the most of Driver Booster.
IObit only charges you a bit more to cover two additional PCs (Image credit: IObit)
The premium version of IObit Driver Booster is available through an annual subscription, with two different plans according to the number of supported PCs. You can get a yearly subscription covering 1 PC for $19.95 and 3 PCs for $24.95. Note that these are discounted rates for first-time users. In the ensuing years, you may end up paying the regular price, which is $39.95/year for 1 PC and $74.85/year for 3 PCs.
The premium version also has a 14-day trial period you can utilize. IObit also offers a 60-day money-back guarantee for every purchase. This gives you some flexibility if you are thinking of subscribing. You can be safe in the knowledge that you aren't committing yourself financially until you're certain IObit Driver Booster 12 is the right driver updater for you.
IObit Driver Booster 12 includes plenty of features and tools to help optimize your PC (Image credit: IObit)
Features
IObit Driver Booster 12 includes a number of useful features designed to help your PC run at optimal performance including:
IObit Driver Booster 12 scans your system and provides you with a list of all of your outdated drivers (Image credit: IObit)
Driver Updates
This is the first and foremost feature of IObit Driver Booster 12. It scans all your computer’s drivers and reports back on which ones are outdated or missing. Afterwards, you can download the newest versions for the outdated ones or new ones for the missing ones. This software checks your drivers against a vast database of over 15 million drivers.
You can constantly update your computer’s drivers and boost its performance with this feature. In fact, the smart update functionality can automatically pick out and install the right drivers for you.
Backup and Restore
IObit Driver Booster lets you backup your drivers and restore them where needed. This feature is essential because some driver updates can cause malfunctions. In such a case, you’ll just need to revert to the backup version and have your PC perform as usual.
With IObit Driver Booster, rolling back to a previous driver is straightforward. You can create restore points before installing new drivers and reinstall the backup version with a single click.
Junk files are another potential issue that can prevent your device from operating optimally - and another that Driver Booster can help with. Junk files may be software leftovers, temporary folders, random executables, thumbnail caches, etc. What’s common among them is that they slow down your computer.
IObit Driver Booster 12 lets you find and quickly remove junk files from your computer. This feature enables you to collect and display detailed information about your computer.
Driver errors can often be responsible for common PC problems (Image credit: IObit)
Fix Common Problems
Driver Booster has tools to fix common problems you encounter when using your computer. Such issues include network failure, wrong resolution, no sound, device error, and so on.
Automatic Scans
You can set schedules for Driver Booster to automatically scan your computer’s drivers. For example, it could be daily, weekly, or whenever your computer boots up so you don't have to worry about forgetting to keep your driver updated.
IObit Driver Booster 12 can also stop unnecessary apps and services from running to improve your gaming performance (Image credit: IObit)
Game Boost
This feature stops all unnecessary apps from running during gaming to have the best gaming experience. Driver Booster can also prioritize the updating of game-ready drivers and components to provide you with the best possible gaming experience. Making sure your devices are compatible with the newest games means frequently updating game-related drivers, including graphics cards and sound cards.
Interface and in use
IObit Driver Booster 12 is relatively easy to download and use. We downloaded the setup file directly from the official website with no issues. Afterwards, launching the setup file and installing it on our computer took less than five minutes, allowingus to begin using the tool right away.
IObit Driver Booster 12's user interface is free of clutter and easy to navigate (Image credit: IObit)
IObit Driver Booster 12 has a dashboard from which you can observe and control all its features. After opening the app, the first feature you’ll notice is the “scan” button that lets you run a check on all your PC’s drivers. By clicking this button, you can start or stop the scan anytime you like, as well as re-scan if necessary. On the scan results page, you'll be presented with a list of outdated drivers and game components, with results broken down into four categories: outdated drivers, missing drivers, faulty drivers, and non-installed game drivers.
You'll notice a sidebar on the right side of the main window that will allow you to check your PC information. There are also two other tabs labeled “Boost” and “Tools”, where you can find all the other features.
Support
IObit offers customer support through email and telephone. You can contact them directly to resolve your challenges when using the app. Note that IObit prioritizes paying customers over non-paying customer support inquiries, although it's nice that support is offered at all to users of the free version.
IObit's FAQ page could give you some insights into common issues and concerns (Image credit: IObit)
There’s also a user manual and FAQ page published online to help users familiarize themselves with Driver Booster. Questions are broken down into General FAQs and Product FAQs, so whether you need renewal information or system care, this will hopefully resolve your issue.
IObit Driver Booster may be slightly more expensive than some other driver updaters but the functionality and support make it worth the price. Plus, the fact that even the free plan comes with some level of, albeit reduced, support is not something that all of its rivals can say.
Final verdict
There are many driver management tools out there but IObit Driver Booster is certainly one of the best. It has the necessary features to ensure you continually update your drivers. If we could change one thing, we'd make the upselling of other IObit products a little less intrusive, but it's only a minor gripe.
• Original review date: April 2021
• Cheaper Sonos Roam SL now available
• Launch price: $179 / £179 / AU$299
• Official price now: $179 / £179 / AU$299
Update: February 2024. Coming up to three years after its launch, the Sonos Roam is a still arguably the best Bluetooth speakers for a lot of people thanks to its flexibility at a good price. It has the full Sonos Wi-Fi connectivity to act as a multi-room speaker, as well as Bluetooth support, a tough design, and a bass-forward sound that's suited to outdoor use. The big wrinkle is the Sonos Roam SL, which Sonos says is exactly the same but lacks built-in voice assistant support – we haven't had a chance to test this, but since every component is apparently the same apart from the lack of Alexa/Sonos Voice Control, we're inclined to believe Sonos. It's also worth nothing the Sonos Move 2 is now out, as Sonos' latest portable speaker, but it's over double the price and way more than double the size and weight, it's not quite a replacement for this product. The rest of this review remains as previously published.
Sonos Roam: Two-minute review
The Sonos Roam is the latest portable wireless speaker from the multi-room audio company, and the brand’s CEO Patrick Spence calls it “the smartest speaker we have ever built.”
Following in the footsteps of the larger Sonos Move, the Roam comes with both Bluetooth and Wi-Fi connectivity, which means it can work as a portable speaker as well as part of your wider multi-room Sonos system – and with Google Assistant and Alexa onboard, it doubles up a smart speaker too.
At $179 / £179 / AU$299, it’s the cheapest and smallest Sonos speaker to date, and therefore the most affordable entry point into the brand's multi-room audio ecosystem. For the avoidance of confusion, the Sonos Ray is a newer product from Sonos, arriving on June 7, 2022, ($279 / £279 / AU$399) but the Ray is a demure plug-n-play soundbar, rather than this portable Bluetooth beauty.
Back to the Roam then, and in spite of its (relatively) low price you’re getting a lot for your money here. Its slick design means the Sonos Roam won’t look out of place in your home, while a rugged, waterproof and dustproof build and a decent battery life make it ideal for listening to music outdoors. It also comes with Google Assistant / Alexa support, so you can control it with your voice alone, and use it to control your other smart devices.
If the idea of a Bluetooth speaker with built-in microphones makes you feel uneasy, Sonos also offers a version of the Roam that comes without them – the Sonos Roam SL is also slightly cheaper owing to the omission of mics, in a similar vein to the Sonos One and Sonos One SL speakers.
To make that transition from indoors to outdoors as seamless as possible, the Sonos Roam comes with a host of cool features. The first of these is Sound Swap – simply hold down the play button and the Sonos Roam will ‘throw’ your audio to the nearest other Sonos speaker available.
Another, Automatic Switching between Bluetooth and Wi-Fi connections, means you can simply walk into your home and the Sonos Roam, having previously been paired with your Bluetooth device, will connect to your Wi-Fi, without the need to set it up and reconnect manually.
Finally, the Auto TruePlay feature first introduced with the Sonos Move has been upgraded here, so the Roam will automatically tune its soundstage to your environment, whether you’re on Bluetooth or Wi-Fi.
Of course, all these flashy features would be pointless if the Sonos Roam didn’t sound great – but we’re happy to report that, despite its small stature, the Roam delivers a powerful sonic performance, with remarkably prominent bass, even if it does lack the rhythmic accuracy you'd expect from an audiophile speaker. If you do count yourself among the audiophiles of the world, you may find the bass to be slightly overpowering – though those forceful low frequencies work well outdoors, where there are no walls for the sound to bounce off.
The Sonos Roam's combination of class-leading connectivity features, powerful sound, and excellent design means it's our pick for the best portable speaker of 2021 and 2022, though take note: it doesn't beat the seriously talented Sonos One in terms of audio quality.
In any case, we think Sonos has achieved its aims of creating the smartest Sonos speaker to date, and for that reason, we'd absolutely recommend buying it if you're looking for a portable speaker that can slot into your existing home audio system as easily as it can provide tunes around a campfire or at the beach.
And Sonos isn't one for resting on its laurels either. In September 2021, the Sonos Roam got even better thanks to an upgrade that brought improvements to connectivity and battery life. Downloading the update via the Sonos S2 app improved the Roam’s power management to help extend the Roam’s battery life when not actively being used. Neat!
The Roam is the cheapest Sonos speaker to date. (Image credit: TechRadar)
Sonos Roam review: Price & availability
Available to buy now
$179 / £179 / AU$299
Cheapest Sonos speaker to date
The Sonos Roam is available to buy for $179 / £179 / AU$299; that's $20 / £20 / AU$20 more than its original launch price in April 2021, after Sonos announced a nearly product-wide price hike.
That price tag makes it the level-cheapest Sonos speaker to date in the US and UK, equalling the Sonos One SL, which also costs $179 / £179 (although it gets a bit confusing in Australia, because here the One SL costs AU$269). It's also cheaper than Sonos' first portable smart speaker, the Sonos Move, which costs $399 / £399 / AU$649 – a price that puts that speaker firmly at the top end of the Bluetooth speaker market, although it earns that price tag thanks to its array of Sonos smarts and powerful audio.
It’s still not cheap by any means though; one of our favorite Bluetooth speakers, the UE Boom 3, costs $129.99 / £129.99 / AU$199.95, and the cheap and cheerful Tribit Stormbox Blast is only $199 (which is around £163 or AU$290, where sold) – although of course, neither come with the smart assistant compatibility of Sonos’ latest device.
If you don't want your Roam to come with voice assistant capabilities, you can save money on the new Sonos Roam SL. It's available for $159 / £159/ AU$269.
The rugged Bluetooth speaker comes with a IP67 water-and-dust-resistance rating. (Image credit: TechRadar)
Sonos Roam review: Design
IP67 water-and-dust-resistance rating
0.95lbs / 0.43kg
Rugged build
While the Sonos Roam retains the minimalist aesthetic of the brand’s previous devices, its design is still quite the departure for the audio company, with a focus on ruggedness and portability.
It’s longer and thinner than the comparatively squat Sonos Move, and is similar in size to a water bottle – or the newer Cleer Scene (which is very similar in shape to the splendid JBL Flip 6). It’s far lighter than the Move too, weighing in at 0.95lbs / 0.43kg, and you can easily hold it in your hand or sling it in a bag when on the move.
That light build, combined with an IP67 water-and-dust-resistance rating, makes it more easily portable than its predecessor, and rugged enough to withstand the elements. In fact, Sonos says it can survive being three feet underwater for 30 minutes.
On the front of the speaker is an embossed Sonos logo in white; above this, is an LED that indicates the speaker’s connection status, while an LED on the opposite end indicates battery life.
The control buttons are on the left end of the speaker when it’s placed horizontally – you can also orient the speaker vertically, with the buttons on the top. There are volume up and down buttons, a play/pause button, and a button for turning the microphone on and off. The play/pause button can be double-pressed to skip to the next track, or triple-pressed to go back to the previous track.
To pair the Roam with other Sonos products, you need to press and hold the play/pause button; keeping the button pressed for longer will activate the aforementioned ‘throw’ feature, switching your audio to the nearest other Sonos speaker. Slightly embossed, the buttons feel more tactile and easier to use compared to the touch-sensitive buttons on top of the Sonos Move – and they’re more accessible for those with visual impairments.
You can stand the Sonos Roam upright, or on its side. (Image credit: TechRadar)
On the back of the speaker is the power button – you need to press and hold this until you hear the pairing tone to connect the Sonos Roam to a Bluetooth device. Beneath the button is a USB-C port for charging – you get a USB-A to USB-C connector in the box, but you’ll have to use your own adapter.
The ends of the speaker are slightly concave, which Sonos says increases its drop-resistance, and helps to prevent accidental button presses, so you don’t jack the volume up to 11 every time you brush past it.
The buttons themselves are described by Sonos as “tactile and slightly embossed”, with the raised design making it easy to hit play or change the volume. They’re very responsive, and we didn’t experience any lag in between hitting the button and the resulting action; the Sonos Move’s buttons are touch-sensitive, so the ability to feel the buttons will likely be a welcome feature for anyone with visual impairments.
Coming in 'Shadow' black and 'Lunar' white, the Sonos Roam boasts a “precision-engineered” honeycomb grille – it’s not a wraparound grille though, so don’t expect true 360-degree sound.
The design of the Sonor Roam works just as well indoors as it does outdoors. (Image credit: TechRadar)
You have some flexibility when it comes to placing the speaker – the Roam can be positioned horizontally for stability on uneven ground, or vertically for a smaller footprint, with its triangular shape funneling sound upwards. If you do place the Roam horizontally on a flat surface like a table, small feet on what is, in this orientation, the bottom of the speaker help to keep it stable.
If you wish, you can buy a $49 / £44 / AU$79 wireless charging stand for the Roam. Simply place the speaker on the stand and it’ll snap into place with magnets, giving the Roam a permanent home inside yours.
Overall, we think the design of the Sonos Roam is really attractive. While many of the best portable waterproof speakers are finished with garish colors and functional materials, the Roam retains the slick aesthetic of the brand’s home speakers, and its light and compact build makes it ideal for listening to music on the go.
If Sonos’ goal was to make a speaker that works just as well indoors as it does outdoors, it has succeeded.
You get a powerful sound from the Roam, but the bass can be overwhelming. (Image credit: TechRadar)
Sonos Roam review: Audio performance
Powerful sound
Bass can be overwhelming indoors
Comprehensive support for streaming services
In spite of its small size, the Sonos Roam delivers a powerful sonic performance with remarkably prominent bass. Inside the speaker are two class-H amplifiers, with a high-efficiency motor that Sonos says increases the power and range of the audio output, as well as a custom racetrack mid-woofer, and a tweeter.
While the sound isn’t as room-filling as that provided by the larger Sonos Move, the Roam comes pretty close, thanks to some clever design choices when it comes to the transducer.
Key specs
Weight: 0.95 pounds (0.43 kg)
Battery life: 10 hours
Connectivity: Wi-Fi and Bluetooth 5
Drivers: One tweeter, one mid-woofer
NFC: Yes
Aux-in: No
The transducer transforms the electric signal into wave-shaped changes in air pressure – the sound you hear – and for that it needs space to move, as well as space within the speaker to pack in as much air as possible.
As Sara Morris, Principal Product Manager at Sonos explains, the team managed to keep the size down by making the transducer part of the housing itself, allowing the Sonos Roam to be “smaller, lighter, and still have a really good sound.”
Sonos has certainly succeeded in that regard. Listening to Childish Gambino’s Feels Like Summer, thumping bass lines drive the smooth synths, while the clear and rich falsetto vocals soar above the mix.
If we’re nit-picking, we’d like to hear a little more from the mids and lower trebles, as some of the detail is lost amid that powerful bass; in fact, if you’re using the Roam inside, you may want to adjust the EQ settings to increase the treble frequencies. Those powerful low frequencies work very well outside, where there are no walls for the sound to bounce off, but inside, it can be slightly overpowering.
Listening to Gorillaz' Glitter Freeze, and the whining synths sound clear without being overly harsh, while the driving bass lines are powerful. The Sonos Roam lacks the kind of rhythmic accuracy and dexterity of audiophile speakers, but for a speaker of this size, we weren't disappointed by the overall presentation of our music.
As for support for music services, there’s support for AirPlay 2 on Apple devices with iOS 11.4 and later, Spotify, Apple Music, Deezer, Tidal, YouTube Music, 7Digital, Sonos Radio, and more via the Sonos S2 app.
The Roam isn't quite as sonically powerful as the Sonos Move. (Image credit: TechRadar)
Sonos Roam review: Sound Swap
Throws sound from your Roam to another Sonos speaker
Works in reverse
Sound Swap is one of the best features on the Sonos Roam, allowing you to ‘throw’ the music from your Sonos Roam to the nearest Sonos speaker available, and vice versa.
All you need to do is hold down the play/pause button until you hear the third tone (one more than if you were pairing two speakers), while holding the Sonos Roam close to the other speaker. Your music should then begin playing from the second speaker – or if you’re casting to a Sonos system, the full speaker setup.
We tried Sound Swap with our home cinema system, comprising a Sonos Arc, two Sonos One SL rear speakers, and the Sonos Sub, and it worked seamlessly. Being able to bring the Sonos Roam in from the kitchen to our living room and continue listening to our music on a surround sound system without messing around with our phone was wonderful.
As mentioned this feature also works in reverse, so holding down the play/pause button will cause the Roam to pick up audio that’s playing on another speaker or setup – handy when you’re taking the Roam out into the garden for example.
You can charge the Roam via the USB-C at the back of the speaker. (Image credit: TechRadar)
Sonos Roam review: Connectivity
Easy setup
Bluetooth and Wi-Fi connectivity
Automatic Switching
In spite of its focus on portability, the Roam is very much part of the Sonos ecosystem, which means you can use it as part of a wider multi-room audio setup, or pair two speakers for stereo sound. Pairing the Sonos Roam with other Sonos speakers can be done by simply holding down the play/pause button.
Unfortunately, though, you can’t use two Sonos Roams as a pair of rear channels for your home cinema system. We expected this to be the case, as the same is true for the Sonos Move – the company puts this down to sync issues, and the potential for a directional soundtrack to lose its focus if a speaker isn't optimally positioned in a room.
The Roam works with both Wi-Fi and Bluetooth 5, so you can use it in the home or on the move, and the new Automatic Switching feature makes this transition more seamless than ever, with the speaker automatically connecting to your Wi-Fi network when in range, and re-pairing with your phone when you’re out and about.
To start using the Sonos Roam you’ll need to connect it to your Wi-Fi network via the Sonos S2 app – this isn’t super-clear from the instruction leaflet included in the box, but you won’t be able to pair via Bluetooth without doing this first.
Pairing the Roam with other Sonos speakers is super easy. (Image credit: TechRadar)
Setting up the Sonos Roam took us just a few minutes. To get started, you’ll need to download the Sonos app if you don’t have it already, and then tap Settings > System > Add Product.
When you begin connecting the Sonos Roam to your network, you’ll be prompted to enter an 8-digit code that you’ll find on the bottom of the speaker – this can either be entered manually, or automatically using NFC.
Once you’ve done this, you’ll hear a chime to let you know that the code has been entered successfully, and the speaker will begin connecting to your Wi-Fi network. You may also have to wait for the Roam to update, if an update is available.
Once connected, you can turn on Auto Trueplay, add your voice assistant of choice (Google Assistant or Alexa) and toggle other settings. There’s also a ‘product tour’ within the app, to help you get to know the Sonos Roam’s controls and features – it’s a neat touch that makes the setup process feel really easy.
Sonos Roam review: Voice Assistant
Google Assistant or Alexa
Smart home control
Requires Wi-Fi
Both Google Assistant and Alexa are onboard, and you can use your voice assistant of choice to control the speaker hands-free, control your other smart home devices, check your calendar, ask questions, and more – you will need to be connected to Wi-Fi to take advantage of these features.
Setting up the Sonos Roam with Google Assistant is super easy, with the Sonos app directing you to the Google Home app to configure your settings. We found the microphones were able to pick up our voice pretty clearly, even with music playing at a medium volume.
It's a shame that you can't call on the voice assistant while using Bluetooth, but it's certainly not a dealbreaker – and we daresay the experience of using Google Assistant over Bluetooth would be more frustrating than helpful.
You can only use the Sonos Roam's voice assistant while connected to a Wi-Fi network. (Image credit: TechRadar)
Sonos Roam review: Battery life
10-hour battery life
10 days in sleep mode
Supports wireless charging
The claimed battery life of the Sonos Roam is 10 hours, though we found that this came in at around nine hours while playing at a medium volume, and the company says the speaker can last for up to 10 days in sleep mode – it’ll automatically go into sleep mode when you stop playing music.
That battery life almost matches the Sonos Move’s 11 hours, and that of most decent portable speakers on the market.
You can charge the Sonos Roam with any Qi-certified charging device, but if you want to keep it in the family, Sonos sells a dedicated wireless charging stand for $49 / £44 / AU$79, which features magnets to hold the speaker in place. You also get a USB-A to USB-C connector in the box, so you can use your own adapter.
Should I buy the Sonos Roam?
The Sonos Roam is our pick for the best Bluetooth speaker you can buy today. (Image credit: Sonos)
Buy it if...
Don't buy it if...
Sonos Roam review: Also consider
Not convinced by our Sonos Roam review? We've picked out three more Bluetooth speakers for you to consider below:
The Tineco Floor One S5 is a cordless wet-dry vacuum with a floor-standing dock. It vacuums and mops in tandem, removing the need to vacuum before mopping, and potentially cutting your hard floor cleaning time in half.
It features Tineco's iLoop smart sensor technology, which detects both wet and dry dirt and adjusts suction, water flow and roller speed accordingly. A light ring will glow red when it finds a particularly dirty bit of floor, and slowly change to blue as it cleans it. It's all very satisfying. I was impressed at how efficiently it worked when vacuuming and mopping up dirt and cleaning fresh wet spills in my home. Understandably, it took a little more effort to dislodge caked-on dirt, but it cleared that eventually too, with the help of Max mode. It can't get into grouting cracks between tiles, however, and although it can tackle dust, it can't be used on area rugs or carpet, so if you have those you'll still need to supplement this with one of the best vacuum cleaners.
While it's quite heavy, the fact it propels itself forwards means it's still comfortable to use, and it's easy to maneuver, too, although it won't lie flat so you won't be able to get too far underneath furniture. There's an automatic self-clean program for hands-off cleaning of the brush roller, and an onboard voice assistant that'll prompt you to add water, empty the dirty water tank and even remind you to start the self-clean program. There's a companion app too, although it's far from essential.
The Tineco Floor One S5 would be great to have on standby if you have young kids who are prone to spilling food under the table, you simply need to refresh a muddy hallway, or as a quick fix on dusty floors that look desperately messy when the sun shines through. That's the short version; read on for my full Tineco Floor One S5 review.
Tineco Floor One S5 vacuum and mop review: price & availability
List price: $499 / £399
Launch date: April 2022
Availability: US / UK
Tineco is a Chinese company that sells a range of carpet cleaners, wet-dry vacuums and smart vacuum cleaners. The Floor One S5 was added to its floorcare range in 2022 and is available to buy in the US and UK with a list price of $499 / £399.
The S5 isn’t a budget appliance, but considering it can perform the dual functions of vacuuming and mopping, it’s a time-saving two-in-one floor cleaner that’s worth the expense, especially for people who mop floors several times a week. The build quality is high, and Tineco provides things like spare brushrolls, a replacement filter, and cleaning solution, in the box.
There are cheaper options on the market, if you're on a budget. For example, the Shark HydroVac Cordless vacuum-mop has a list price of US$359.99 / £329.99.
While the S5 isn’t available in Australia, the Tineco Floor One S5 Pro is available. It’s virtually the same model but features additional animations on the screen as well as a suction-only mode.
Value for money score: 4 out of 5
Tineco Floor One S5 vacuum and mop specs
Tineco Floor One S5 review: design
Large charging dock holds all accessories
Auto mode detects dirt
Self-cleaning brush roller
The Tineco Floor One S5 is designed to be used on both wet and dry spills on hard flooring, and is roughly the size of a standard upright vacuum cleaner. With its graphite, white and navy finish, it's easy on the eye. The parts that look premium, and it feels like it has been built to last.
The wet-dry vacuum sits on a floor-standing charging dock for convenient grab-and-go cleaning. Bear in mind that the dock has quite a large footprint, so you’ll need to find floor space (near a power outlet) for it. When sat on its floor-standing charger, the handle is at a slight angle, so it’s not completely flush up against the wall. I appreciated that the dock includes spaces for a spare brush roller and filter, so they won't get lost.
(Image credit: TechRadar)
On the vacuum are generously sized clean and dirty water tanks. Both are easy to remove, empty and fill. When the dirty water tank is full, the appliance switches off and the voice assistant prompts you to empty it. Likewise, when the clean water tank needs a refill, the voice assistant prompts you to do so, but it doesn’t automatically switch off.
On top of the main body of the cleaner, there’s a large, round screen that displays the battery percentage as well as the cleaning mode. There are two modes to choose from: an Auto mode, which uses iLoop Smart Sensor Technology to detect dirt and adjust suction accordingly, and a Max mode.
(Image credit: Future)
There are also a number of other symbols, which light up to alert you of issues such as when the dirty water tank needs emptying or the self-clean program needs running. A light ring around the edge of the screen changes color depending on the level of dirt detected: red when the cleaner detects a high level of dirt, becoming blue as the floor becomes cleaner.
The on/off switch is conveniently located on the handle, and next to it is a button to switch between Auto mode and Max mode. There's also a Suction mode, for when you don't want any cleaning solution sprayed out. This appliance comes with a companion app, which provides user advice and cleaning stats (more on this below).
(Image credit: TechRadar)
A self-cleaning cycle can be activated by pressing a button on the top of the handle. During this cycle, clean water from the tank is used to rinse out the brush roller.
You can also change the brushroll in the floorhead, to extend cleaning times. Unclick the top cover from the floorhead and swap in a fresh roller while you rinse and leave the used one to dry. That means the machine is always ready to go.
Tineco is quite generous in terms of the extras provided in the box. My review model came with two extra brush rolls, a spare filter, a brush to clean the short section of pipe between the roller and dirty water tank, and some deodorizing and cleaning solution (this is the only solution recommended for use with this appliance).
Design score: 4.5 out of 5
Tineco Floor One S5 vacuum and mop review: performance
Maneuverable and self-propelling, but doesn't lie flat
Effectively cleans lots of mess types, but won't get into grouting
Voice prompts are useful
The Tineco Floor One S5 comes out of the box pretty much ready to go – there’s very little assembly required, other than clicking the handle into position and placing it on the dock. When the device is positioned on the docking station it delivers a voice prompt to let you know that ‘charging has commenced’, and you can see the battery levels rise.
The water tank is easy to fill and given that only one cap of cleaning fluid is required, the included bottle should last a while. The cleaner always starts in Auto mode, even if you were using Max mode last time.
(Image credit: Future)
This device is designed to remove wet spills, dirt, grime, grease and tough stains from most types of hard surfaces, although it's not suitable for rugs or carpets. I tested it out on sealed hardwood flooring, vinyl tiles, and ceramic tiles.
The Tineco Floor One S5 works by pushing forward to vacuum and pulling back to mop. Although it's quite heavy, when switched on it propels itself forward, requiring minimal effort. It’s also really maneuverable, turning tight corners with ease.
The floorhead does a great job of getting close up to baseboards and furniture. However, and because the handle won't go flat, you’re limited when it comes to cleaning under furniture, and the floorhead won't fit into small or awkward spaces, either. Wet-dry cleaners typically don't come with detail tools, but I think a crevice tool would be helpful here.
The controls are clear and useful. It's easy to see how much charge is left at any time, and the screen will also provide a prompt when the dirty water tank needs changing or the clean water tank has run out. There's also the option to use a voice prompt button for this, so you don't need to look at the screen.
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On test, the Auto setting worked well, with suction audibly increasing when dirt was detected, and the changing colored lights providing a useful at-a-glance indicator of what was going on. Sometimes, the lights would turn red when going over parts of the floor that didn’t look dirty to the naked eye, prompting me to pay extra attention to these areas, which I wouldn’t have done with a regular mop. In general, I was impressed with how much dirt it pulled up from what I'd thought were relatively clean floors.
I found the Floor One S5 mopped evenly and didn't leave the floor too wet, leaving behind a mild, pleasant scent of cleaning solution.
When cleaning in both Auto mode and Max mode never went above 72db, which is the same level of noise made by a dishwasher mid-cycle, and is more than acceptable for a device like this.
Cleaning tests
To assess this cleaner's performance on different kinds of cleaning tasks, I ran series of tests.
I used it on my kitchen floor to clear up a milky cereal spillage and was amazed at how quickly and effortlessly it tackled the area. I removed most of the spillage using the suction-only mode, then switched to the Auto mode to completely clean the surface. In general, I found it a very convenient way of cleaning up liquid spills such as milk. It sucks up the liquid quickly and cleans the floor simultaneously, so it’s useful to have to hand if you’ve got small children.
I also tested it out on dried food splatters. Here, the mop needed a little more help and I found myself ramping up to Max mode and going over the area a few times to dislodge and clean effectively.
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Certain consistencies of spillage also proved problematic. For example, it struggled to remove a blob of foundation from one of my bathroom tiles, and I had to go back and forth over the area several times to get it clean. It's also worth noting that on this tiled floor, while the surface was left clean and free of debris, the cleaner didn't get into grout lines, so these remained dry.
To test performance on dry messes, I sprinkled oats and crushed biscuit/flour on the floor. The vacuum picked up both with no problems, without leaving any residue behind. Overall, I found the performance on dry debris very effective – this cleaner clears hair and dust very effectively, even at the edge of the baseboards.
Maintenance
When cleaning on Max power, the dirty water tank required emptying after just six minutes of cleaning and the clean water tank needed a refill after only eight minutes. Both lasted longer in Auto mode, though, as it doesn’t use as much water.
Emptying the tank is a simple process but if you empty into your sink, you’ll then need to deal with all the larger debris that's mixed in with the grubby water. Emptying into the toilet makes things much simpler. (It's usual for wet-dry cleaners to mix wet and dry debris like this – Dyson WashG1 takes a different tack by separating solids from liquids for easier disposal and more straightforward maintenance.)
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Once back on the charging dock, the Floor One S5 scans the dirt level on the brush roller and will prompt you to perform the automatic clean if needed. This takes roughly two minutes, during which time clean water will flush through the system and rinse the brush roller. It's a completely hands-off process, so you can walk away and do something else until it’s finished, at which point the dirty water tank will need emptying.
I also found it beneficial to remove the brush roll and leave it to dry separately when not in use. This can be fiddly – and rather grim if there’s a lot of mess – but a simple wash under warm water straight after use keeps things fresh.
Less frequently, you'll also need to clean the filter, and clear the tube between floorhead and water tank using the brush provided.
Performance score: 4.5 out of 5
Tineco Floor One S5 vacuum and mop review: app
Provides cleaning stats and helpful instructions
Only supports 2.4G Wi-Fi
Thiscleaner comes with a companion app: the Tineco Life app. This connects easily to the floor cleaner and it walks you through the setup process. While having an app for a floorcare appliance isn’t exactly necessary, it does contain a few useful features.
It allows you to change the language as well as volume of the voice prompts on the cleaner, you can also mute the voice altogether if you prefer. You can use it to check the cleaner's battery levels while it's charging, and tell you how long it is before charge is complete.
There are video tutorials on everything from how to fill and empty the water containers, to removing the brush roller and cleaning. Furthermore, you can tell the cleaner whether you’re using cleaning solution or cleaning with water only, this allows it to adjust settings if necessary, although this can be done without the app too.
There are other, arguably less useful features in the app, such as stats on the time spent cleaning and average daily use. It’s not necessarily an app you’ll use regularly, but it’s helpful to download it when first setting up the appliance, in our case it performed a firmware upgrade upon the initial setup.
Note: the companion only supports 2.4G Wi-Fi.
Tineco Floor One S5 vacuum and mop review: battery
Up to 35 minute runtime
Battery level displayed clearly on screen
4-5 hour charging time
The battery percentage is shown clearly on the screen during use as well as while it’s charging. If you’re not near the cleaner, you can also check the battery level in the app, which will give you additional information about how much time is remaining before it’s fully charged. I found this to be quite accurate.
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During use in Max mode, the battery lasted 27 minutes, which is just shy of the 28 minutes stated by Tineco. It’ll last longer in Auto mode, but exactly how long will vary because auto mode adjusts the power depending on the dirt level detected.
Once the battery reaches 10 percent the number flashes to alert you that it’s low. A full recharge took just under four hours, which is faster than the four to five hours suggested by Tineco.
Should I buy the Tineco Floor One S5?
Buy it if...
You have a lot of hard floors This cleaner will take care of vacuuming and mopping all your hard floors, in one go.
You’ve got children It makes short work of cleaning up spills and washes the floor at the same time, which takes the stress out of accidents like dropped cereal bowls or drinks.
You want a smarter wet-dry cleaner There are plenty of wet-dry cleaners on the market, but the automatic suction adjustment and voice prompts help this one stand out from the pack.
Don't buy it if...
You're short on space This cleaner's dock is pretty bulky, so you’ll need to find somewhere to store it, and it'll need to be near a plug outlet too.
You have a lot of carpet This cleaner isn't suitable for use on carpet or rugs, so is probably only worth it if you have lot of hard flooring in your house.
You’ve got delicate or uneven floors While it’s gentle on floors, I wouldn’t recommend this cleaner for very delicate floors – if anything got embedded in the brush roller it could cause damage. And given that it can’t clean into grout lines, it won’t be suitable for uneven floors like rough slate or stone.
