Leica is of course most well-known for its cameras (and recently, collaborations with smartphone makers like Huawei and Xiaomi), but did you know it also makes mechanical watches and that there are Leica branded smartphones? Not just co-branded ones, but solely Leica branded devices.
The Leica Leitz Phone 1 was revealed in 2021, and the Leitz Phone 2 launched in 2022, both only in the Japanese market. By the way, in case you're wondering, Leica's founder's name was Ernst Leitz, hence the name of the phone range, but also the Leica name itself is composed of "Lei" from Leitz and "ca" for...
Sony's just announced Ult Wear headphones are a new pair of mid-range over-ears designed for bass-heavy obsessives. They're pitched as the "spiritual successor" to the 2022 WH-XB910N, which had been part of a lineup of extra bass – identified by the 'XB' – focused products. But the Ult Wear headphones take this to a whole new level.
Sony has developed what it calls 'Ult Power Sound', a specialized sound mode with two very uniquely tuned types of bass. The first is 'Deep Bass', which delivers a richness to those lower notes, while the second is more of an energized version called 'Attack Bass' that still manages a lot of detail with surprisingly no distortion, even at high volumes.
(Image credit: Future)
I know this because I was invited to be one of the first to listen to the new Ult Wear headphones and its bassy sound modes, and Sony couldn't have picked a more appropriate music venue for it. Standing in a London club called The Social, it was hard not to start dancing in front of all the other tech journalists around me, especially when switching between the two variations of bass – the headphones have a dedicated button on the side of the earcup that lets you cycle through them. I'm told that certain demographics have tendencies to prefer one over the other but after trying it, I think it'll be more used for optimizing specific genres (it's like having a dedicated button for your favorite EQ settings).
While Sony says it's appealing to a younger generation as a whole with the new Ult Wear headphones, there's a lot under the hood that makes them have wide appeal, including hi-res audio support, a generous battery life and larger drivers than its current flagship pair. Given the premium features, Sony has priced the headphones towards the higher end of the mid-range market with a launch price of $199 in the US, £180 in the UK and AU$439 in Australia. They're essentially a more stripped-back version of the best headphones for premium Sony fans, the WH-1000XM5. So if you're okay with not having the absolute best-in-class, then the Ult Wear could be the best way to get Sony smarts for less.
Sony's Ult Wear headphones: Key specs
(Image credit: Future)
The new Ult Wear headphones look very similar to the Sony WH-1000XM4 but there are a few key differences. The most noticeable is the 'neochrome' (a chrome metal that reflects a rainbow of colors when in light) Sony logo on the side alongside a button with the words 'ULT' that has the same effect. The headphones also have a semi-circle of meshed sound vents on the side of the earcup and are available in three colorways: black, off white and forest gray.
Sony has kept the foldable design of the WH-XB910N and former WH-1000XM3 that we absolutely loved, making them very portable. They even come with a travel case for storing them safely in your bag. Other standouts about the design include the comfortable headband and earpads. The Ult Wear also felt very light, an essential design touch in a pair of headphones for travelling.
In terms of features, the Ult Wear headphones come equipped with Active Noise Cancellation, multi-point pairing for both iOS and Android as well as fast and swift pairing for Android and Windows, and support for hi-res audio codecs like LDAC and beam-forming mics. The headphones, which use USB-C, also boast up to 30 hours of battery life and are said to come with fast charging that delivers one and a half hours of listening time from just three minutes of charge. As for connectivity, there's Bluetooth 5.2 and a 3.5mm port for a wired link to one of the best MP3 players.
Unleashing Ult Power Sound
(Image credit: Future)
While there are a lot of exciting features in the Ult Wear headphones that you'd more often find in Sony's premium range, it's the unique bass specific sound that is the real draw here. Of course, its specialized bassy sound is also its biggest drawback because if you're not someone that listens to a lot of bass-heavy tracks then they might not be the ideal all-rounder pair of headphones.
Naturally, the first track I played to test their bass capabilities was Black Eye by Allie X, a track we often use at TechRadar when testing headphones to measure bass response. I was blown away instantly. I found the audio quality energized and tonally balanced during my first listen, and it only got better as I switched between the Ult Power Sound modes.
Even when I turned the volume right up, the Ult Wear managed to not distort, which is something that can often happen with bass-centric headphones. This could be down to the larger speakers inside the Ult Wear. Unlike the 30mm dynamic drivers in the WH-1000XM4 and WH-1000XM5, it has larger 40mm speakers to handle the lower frequencies. Of course, I only sampled a few tracks so I can't give a definite review of the sound quality just yet (check back once our full review goes live), but as far as first impressions go, they sounded very promising.
Huawei held a launch conference today where it introduced its MateBook X Pro 2024 laptop and FreeBuds Lipstick 2 earbuds alongside more details about HarmonyOS Next. We were also expecting some details about the upcoming Huawei P70 series but there was no mention of the upcoming flagships on stage.
Luckily, a new spy shot of what appears to be the back plate of the P70 made rounds across Chinese social media Weibo. The new leak is in line with previous rumors showcasing a triangular camera island. The back appears to feature matte AG glass while the camera island gets a glossy...
The Alen BreatheSmart 45i is just one of many air purifiers on the market. And, if you’re like me when it comes to tech that doesn’t exactly tickle the dopamine receptors, it’s easy to skip the reviews and simply opt for something from your nearest big box store. However, when it comes to air purifiers, you probably shouldn’t do that.
Not only are you in the market for something that literally cleans the air you breathe, but many of the best air purifiers are either unlikely to be available from that big box store – or, if they are, will go for a price that will make you want to reach for something on a lower, cheaper shelf.
Quality is key when buying an air purifier, then. Having spent a month, if not more, with the Alen BreatheSmart 45i, I’d say that it definitely fits that category of product.
Instead of the space-age design of even pricier models, this model is sleek and discreet. And, unlike more budget options, it’s obviously well designed and made. This is before you consider the fact that you can switch out the front panel for a handful of options to match your decor, and choose from four different filters to best meet your needs.
(Image credit: Future)
There really isn’t much not to like here. In fact, my biggest gripe was that it wasn’t obvious that the BreatheSmart comes with app support. While that might be user error – I should have checked the manual – in my view it should have been clearly stated. Luckily, all the necessary functionality is accessible via the capacitive controls.
Easy to set up and use, the BreatheSmart does an excellent job of quickly identifying drops in air quality; an LED indicator changes color to make you aware of the fact. In addition, the unit is fairly efficient at cleaning the air, although you’d be wise to set your expectations according to the filter you have – the basic one will not eliminate all odors, for example.
Really, the only point of contention most people will have with the Alen BreatheSmart 45i – unless they try to use it in too large a space – is its price. While there are far more expensive options out there, it’s still far from cheap. But, in this humble reviewer’s opinion, it’s worth it.
How much does it cost? Starting at $429 (about £340 / AU$660)
When is it available? Available now
Where can you get it? Available in the US
The Alen BreatheSmart 45i is not cheap. The price starts at $429 for the most basic configuration, reviewed here.
Consider upgrading the front panel and this will set you back a further $39. And, if you want to switch out the supplied “Pure” filter to the more powerful “Fresh” filter, that will be another $15; the remaining two filters come in at $30 each. So, you could potentially spend $498 (about £400 / AU$760) for an BreatheSmart 45i with an upgraded panel and filter.
Nevertheless, taking its performance into account, I’d say it’s worth the outlay. Although that cost can be a sticking point when the Blue Pure 411 Auto, for example – one of the highest rated air purifiers here at TechRadar – costs only $140/ £179 (about AU$220).
Note that the Alen BreatheSmart 45i is only available in the US.
Value score: 4 out of 5
Alen BreatheSmart 45i: specs
(Image credit: Future)
Alen BreatheSmart 45i review: design
Sleek but basic aesthetic
All functionality available through on-unit controls
Multiple filters available for different needs
The Alen BreatheSmart 45i is tall, lean, and only slightly boxy. Its design is more discreet than a model such as the space-age Dyson Purifier Hot+Cool Formaldehyde HP09, and while the review model arrived with an all-white exterior, there are five other front panels of various color available to fit your personal aesthetic. Personally, I’m happy with the basic look.
The controls are of the capacitive variety and located on the top of the unit. From here you can turn on the ionizer feature, check and reset filter levels, dim the lights of the controls and the LED indicator (which changes color depending on air quality) that surrounds the power button, set the speed, turn on automatic mode, and lock in current settings so they can’t accidentally be changed.
Basically, you can control every one of the Alen BreatheSmart 45i’s features from this panel. There is an app for both iOS and Android available, which lets you control the Alen BreatheSmart 45i from your couch; but the only added functionality it offers is the ability to track usage and cleaning history.
(Image credit: Future)
There are four filters available for the unit. The 'Pure' is the default option – a medical-grade H13 HEPA filter for capturing allergens, dust and mold. 'Fresh' adds in carbon for additionally tackling chemicals and VOCs, cooking odors among other household odors. The 'Odor' filter steps up another gear when it comes to neutralizing odors, while the 'VOC / Smoke' filter comes with extra carbon to absorb noxious gases and secondhand smoke. As such, you should consider your air purifying priorities before you purchase; the 'Pure' filter in the review model does very little to neutralizing smells, for instance.
(Image credit: Future)
Alen offers a subscription program that, by default, delivers a new filter every nine months – the natural life cycle of a filter. While the filter can’t be reused, it’s covered in a pre-filter that catches larger particles that can be cleaned.
Lastly, even though the BreatheSmart 45i is among the smaller of Alen’s purifiers, it’s still bulky. However, a handle at the back, near the top of the unit makes it easy to move it around your home. Also welcome is the indent in the base around which you can wrap any excess power cord for a cleaner look.
Design score: 4.5 out of 5
Alen BreatheSmart 45i: performance
Easy to assemble
App support is somewhat hidden
Powerful filter with good airflow
Before I get into the Alen BreatheSmart 45i’s air purifying performance, let’s discuss setup. On arrival, you’ll find the filter wrapped in plastic, while the front panel has a paper band around it like a freshly cleaned toilet in a high-end hotel. To assemble the unit ready for use, simply pull off the front panel, which is magnetically held into place, attach the filter having removed the plastic, and replace the front panel once you’ve removed the paper band.
(Image credit: Future)
The Alen BreatheSmart 45i is WiFi-enabled, but you wouldn’t know just by looking at the unit. As previously mentioned, although you don’t need the app to use the air purifier, access is useful for remote control. To pair the device, start by downloading the app appropriate for your device. Hold one of the capacitive buttons for five seconds until the Wi-Fi symbol lights up and starts blinking. Then, open the app and follow the instructions to connect.
(Image credit: Alen)
As far as actually using the Alen BreatheSmart 45i, I tested it using copious amounts of incense, a candle, and in a couple of stale-smelling rooms. While it didn’t completely remove strong scents (you’d need the Odor neutralizer filter for that), it did minimize smells.
More importantly, via the LED indicator, it quickly recognized when the air quality had dipped and went into action, cleaning the air fairly efficiently. As long as you don’t use it in too large a space – it’s rated for rooms up to 800 square feet – it can completely clean the air in a room in as little as 30 minutes.
The BreatheSmart 45i has a CADR, or clean air delivery rating of 245. This metric measures the efficiency of the filter and the amount of air that’s pushed through it. While you can have an air purifier with a powerful filter, if it doesn’t push a lot of air through it, it won’t be able to clean the air in your room very quickly.
(Image credit: Future)
This air purifier is capable of moving a good amount of air, but in operation, it isn’t the quietest at the higher settings. Our review unit reached 49dB, which is similar to the noise level of the space heater I use. Or, for a more general example, it’s like having soft music constantly playing. It isn’t too intrusive, but it certainly isn’t silent.
Getting back to my real world tests, the BreatheSmart air purifier took about 20 minutes to clear the air of the powerful sandalwood-scented incense once it had stopped burning. With the unit in my home I also discovered that my space heater actually introduces particles into the air every time I use it, with the drop in air quality indicated via the change in color of the LED.
Performance score: 4.5 out of 5
Should I buy the Alen BreatheSmart 45i?
Buy it if...
Don't buy it if...
Also consider
If our Alen BreatheSmart 45i review has you considering other options, here are two air purifiers to consider...
How I tested the Alen BreatheSmart 45i
To test the Alen BreatheSmart 45i, I used it for a month to see how it would fare in my bedroom as well as a couple other small to medium-sized rooms in my home. I intentionally put it in areas of strong odors to see how it would perform, and delved into the app to see what functionality it offered.
Having used it over this period I can conclude that this is a powerful air purifier, working particularly well in small to medium-sized rooms. However, if odor is a big concern then you’d be wise to upgrade to the appropriate filter.
I’ve spent the past few years reviewing tech gear for the home, where I’ve gotten a feel for what to look for and how to put a piece of kit through its paces to see whether it’s worth the recommendation.
Google's Gemini Large Language Model (LLM), in its Ultra 1.0 iteration, is coming to OnePlus and Oppo phones later this year. The revelation was announced by the companies at Google's Cloud Next 2024 conference.
The Gemini LLM has a few tiers, the smallest one being Nano, which can run on-device and is coming to the Pixel 8 soon, while Ultra is the most capable cloud-based version of it, which powers the Gemini Advanced chatbot. Ultra understands highly complex tasks and context in order to deliver useful replies.
Aside from Gemini, OnePlus and Oppo phones will also get select...
The iQOO Z9 Turbo is set to launch in China on April 24 and we already got confirmation that the device will be equipped with the Snapdragon 8s Gen 3 and a 6,000 mAh battery. The device is now up for early reservations in China with those interested can reserve their Z9 Turbo making sure to receive it first when it launches. Early reservations will also come with complimentary goodies.
iQOO Z9 Turbo posters
We also get more details about the Z9 Turbo’s performance as iQOO shared the device achieved a 1,764,028 AnTuTu score making it the most powerful Z-series phone to date. As for...
FPV (first person view) drone flight has taken the world by storm. Something that started more than 15 years ago as very much an underground hobby requiring ingenious and determined pilots to source parts, and build and repair their own drones, has now well and truly established itself as a mainstream pursuit that’s available to more people than ever before – and that’s thanks in no small part to market leader DJI.
What DJI offers is a straight-out-of-the-box solution for those who want to fly drones using immersive FPV goggles (and therefore see what the drone ‘sees’) without the difficulty and steep learning curve of flying traditional self-built FPV drones.
Once you buy the Avata 2 you can then decide how easy or difficult you would like it to be. At the novice end of the scale, you can fly easily and stress-free in Normal mode, using the intuitive DJI Motion Controller 3 and all the built-in assistance DJI provides including automatic takeoff, obstacle avoidance sensors, and automatic return to home. This means anyone, regardless of prior experience, can enjoy the thrill of immersive flight while capturing photos or video – although really, FPV is more about the flight experience and videography.
If you feel more confident you can switch to Sport mode, which allows for more speed and control. Finally, you can opt to disable all flight-assistance features, and fly in full manual using the DJI Remote Controller 3 – but beware, this is not for the faint-hearted and, and unless you put in sufficient practice hours first in a simulator you’re without doubt going to crash and damage your new Avata 2, which is not built to withstand multiple heavy collisions.
(Image credit: Future | Nico Goodden)
DJI Avata 2: Release date and price
Available from April 11 2024
DJI Avata 2 Fly More Combo start at $999 / £879 / AU$1,499
DJI FPV Controller 3 sold separately at $199 / £139
The DJI Avata 2 is DJI’s third FPV-focused drone. It was announced on April 11 2024, with immediate availability from the DJI website. It’s the successor to the Avata, which was released back in August 2022, and the DJI FPV launched in March 2021. It’s available as the Fly More Combo with one battery for $999 / £879 / $1,499, or with three batteries for $1,199 / £1,049 / AU$1,839. The Fly More Combo includes the drone, the new DJI Goggles 3, and the new DJI Motion Controller 3, with everything fitting neatly into the well designed included black bag.
If you prefer to fly using a gaming-stye controller, the DJI Remote Controller 3 is available for $199 / £139 / AU$229. It appears to be the same design as the DJI Remote Controller 2, except that the previously foldable antenna is now encased within the controller.
The DJI Avata 2 Fly More Combo is reasonably priced considering what’s included in the package – notably the Goggles 3, which, paired with the O4 camera and transmission, result in excellent image quality with a far better dynamic range than the Avata, the DJI FPV, or the O3 Air Unit that’s commonly used on self-built quadcopters. Shadows contain more detail, and are better balanced with the highlights. Fly More combos come with one or three additional batteries, a carry bag, a charging hub and other useful accessories, and offer value if you see yourself requiring extra batteries anyway.
Image 1 of 5
(Image credit: Future | Nico Goodden)
Image 2 of 5
(Image credit: Future | Nico Goodden)
Image 3 of 5
(Image credit: Future | Nico Goodden)
Image 4 of 5
(Image credit: Future | Nico Goodden)
Image 5 of 5
(Image credit: Future | Nico Goodden)
DJI Avata 2: Design and controller
Complete redesign of the Avata with extended wheelbase and lower center of gravity
DJI Motion Controller 3 included and DJI Remote Controller 3 sold separately
Weighs 1.06oz / 30g less than the previous Avata
The DJI Avata 2 is a complete redesign from its predecessor, with a longer wheelbase, dimensions of 7.26 x 8.35 x 2.52 inches / 184.5 x 212 x 64mm, and a flatter frame for improved aerodynamics. DJI claims the Avata 2 offers better durability and power that its predecessor, while weighing 1.06oz / 30g less. Without a battery it’s surprisingly lightweight, and how well it can withstand repeated crashes remains to be seen, although such mishaps can be largely avoided by opting for to use the built-in obstacle detection and avoidance. It’s perhaps worth saying that this was never designed as a freestyle FPV drone – it remains a cinewhoop with ducts.
In the UK the Avata 2 can be flown by the operator using HD goggles as long as they have a spotter with them who can keep visual line of sight of the drone at all times. Our article about where and how you can fly FPV drones explains more, or you can refer to the CAA website for more information on UK drone laws, the FAA website in the US and the CASA website in Australia.
The Avata 2 is powered by a 2150mAh battery that allows for up to 26 minutes of flight when slowly cruising on a windless day; should you fly manual and perform loops and rolls on a more windy day, your flight time will be reduced considerably, although endurance is still good. This is particularly useful for those using this drone commercially, as it allows them to concentrate on the task at hand without having to constantly worry about battery exhaustion and fear of missing that key moment.
Two controllers are available: the new DJI Motion Controller 3 is included with the Fly More Combo, while if you prefer a gaming-style controller the DJI Remote Controller 3 is available separately.
Image 1 of 5
(Image credit: Future | Nico Goodden)
Image 2 of 5
(Image credit: Future | Nico Goodden)
Image 3 of 5
(Image credit: Future | Nico Goodden)
Image 4 of 5
(Image credit: Future | Nico Goodden)
Image 5 of 5
(Image credit: Future | Nico Goodden)
The DJI Motion Controller 3 is an intuitive way to control your drone, and allows users with no experience to immediately fly in a reasonably precise and controlled way. For more experienced pilots, though, this can feel like a less attractive option than a gaming-style controller, which offers full control in manual mode to let you execute aerobatics. Which you choose will depend on your level of skill and experience, and how adventurous you feel, as well as the applications you plan to use your FPV drone for. For example the DJI Motion Controller 3 could prove very useful for flying in confined environments, such as for indoors real-estate tours.
DJI has added ‘Easy Acro’ to this controller, a simple solution for anyone who’s less comfortable with aerobatics that enables them to perform flips and rolls at the push of a button. It’s a feature that should particularly appeal to novice pilots.
Unfortunately, the design will frustrate left-handed users – it’s built for right-handed users, and it’s impossible for a left-handed person to press the record buttons while flying.
The DJI Remote Controller 3 replaces its predecessor, but unfortunately its ergonomics are not the best for anyone flying in manual mode – if you’re a pilot who ‘pinches’ the gimbals on the remote to control your drone, the handling is quite awkward and distracts you from the task of flying.
DJI Avata 2: Features and flight
Downward and backward visual positioning
Lighter and less noisy than the previous Avata
O4 ultra-low latency video transmission system
Like its predecessor, DJI Avata 2 brings FPV flight to the masses, allowing everyone to enjoy this normally very challenging and technical hobby. You can now start flying straight out of the box after a quick setup process, and be immersed in your flight thanks to DJI Goggles 3.
So what else makes this new iteration worth buying?
First of all, the full redesign compared to the first Avata means this drone is quieter – while not quiet, it will still attract a lot less attention than the ‘screaming’ Avata did. It also features a longer wheelbase (frame size) and a more aerodynamic / flatter design, which results in better flight performance.
One of the main reasons to buy the Avata 2 over its predecessor is the huge jump in video quality. Until now, whether you flew the Avata or the DJI FPV, the video lacked dynamic range, with very dark shadow areas lacking detail. The O4 ultra-low latency video transmission system proves to be a huge leap not only for the footage captured, but for the footage displayed in the new DJI Goggles 3. It’s very crisp, and not only does it look good, it helps greatly when it comes to avoiding hard-to-spot obstacles such as thin branches and power cables.
The DJI Avata 2 features three flight modes which can be selected through the DJI Motion Controller 3 or the DJI Remote Controller 3: Normal, Sport, and fully Manual (which is only available when using the DJI Remote Controller 3).
Normal mode selected on the DJI Motion Controller 3 offers the most safety, and most relaxed flying experience. You can fly with extreme precision, and even reverse, which is not common in the FPV world. It’s perfect for beginners – in fact, someone who’s never flown a drone before should be able to start flying in this mode immediately with minimal help. This is the mode you’ll likely want to use for flying indoors or in very tight spaces.
Image 1 of 5
(Image credit: Future | Nico Goodden)
Image 2 of 5
(Image credit: Future | Nico Goodden)
Image 3 of 5
(Image credit: Future | Nico Goodden)
Image 4 of 5
(Image credit: Future | Nico Goodden)
Image 5 of 5
(Image credit: Future | Nico Goodden)
Sport mode is for those who want to feel more of the thrill of FPV flight, with higher ascent, descent and forward speeds, and no obstacle avoidance.
Then there’s full manual mode, which is only available with the DJI Remote Controller 3 (sold separately), and is only intended for trained FPV pilots, as it removes all flight assistance and stabilization. You’re fully in control, and are free to fly, dive and perform aerobatics like a bird. If you’re not flown in this way before you’ll need to spend some time using an FPV flight simulator, otherwise you will most certainly crash at the first attempt.
The video in this article was filmed in full manual mode, in a single flight without cuts, so that you can get an idea of the Avata 2’s potential when unleashed. Acceleration, deceleration, flying high but also at very low level, flying through tight gaps, performing loops and flips… you can do it all. This is not a freestyle drone, but it’s fun to see how far it can be pushed.
What I’ve learned from flying FPV drones is that it’s about compromises, and establishing what you want from a drone, and choosing the one that’s right for you. It’s similar to choosing a car in some respects – one person might prefer a model that’s safe, solid and dependable, while another may feel the need for speed.
The first DJI FPV was released in 2021, and it was the drone that got me into FPV flight. I’m thankful that DJI introduced it, giving total newbies the opportunity to try FPV and see if it was for them. However, after learning to fly in full manual I quickly decided that I needed a more robust carbon fiber frame and ‘traditional’ DIY FPV, because I like to perform some level of freestyle aerobatics which inevitably lead to crashes – and some very hard crashes. I must have crashed 200 times in the past year with minimal damage to my quadcopter, and I also think such drones fly better.
Having been flying self-built quadcopters, I have to say that I don’t have as much fun when returning to FPV DJI products – they don’t fly as well, and they won’t survive multiple crashes. In fact, when I flew the Avata 2 in full manual mode it felt like I was constantly fighting the drone – it was not tuned as well as I’d like, and compared to my daily carbon fiber FPV quadcopter I found the flight more stressful.
(Image credit: Future | Nico Goodden)
But as I’ve said, FPV is all about compromises. Does my FPV quadcopter have GPS? No it doesn’t. Does it have obstacle avoidance? No it doesn’t. Does it offer generous flight time? Nope. Does it return to home at the press of a button? It doesn’t.
The FPV world is diverse, and this allows people of all aspirations and skill levels to find what’s right for them. I’m constantly tinkering and repairing, soldering components onto my FPV quadcopter; it can be a real headache, but it’s also part of the fun. However, that’s not something everyone wants or has time to do, and that’s the problem DJI solves.
So while the Avata 2 may not be for the most advanced FPV pilots, it’s fabulous for those who want the safety of the GPS and return-to-home functions, object avoidance sensors, and the safety of the ‘panic button’ which immediately slows the drone to a hover if things get too hairy or overwhelming. It has long flight times, allowing you to explore more and immerse yourself deeper, thanks also to the stunning O4 video transmission paired with the Goggles 3.
Did I also mention that it’s cheap? The price is incredible considering that you get everything you need to fly, and the drone, goggles, and remote are the latest technological advances in the drone world.
DJI Avata 2: Image and video quality
O4 Video transmission system with improved dynamic range
1/1.3-inch CMOS sensor
Up to 4K 60fps video
I tested the video quality, and I can say that it’s as good as it gets, and the best you can currently get within the FPV world without having to rely on GoPros or external cameras.
Unfortunately I wasn’t provided a set of ND filters for my review testing, so keep that in mind when viewing my footage, as ND filters are key to obtaining smooth footage with the right amount of motion blur, especially on bright sunny days. I still think the quality of footage is fantastic, though, especially the dynamic range and the balance between dark shadow areas and brightly lit skies.
The ability for the camera to be tilted during flight is another advantage of choosing DJI’s drones for FPV flight. The Avata 2 can be tilted from -95 to 90 degrees, allowing the user to look up or down, and anywhere in between.
Image 1 of 3
(Image credit: Future | Nico Goodden)
Image 2 of 3
(Image credit: Future | Nico Goodden)
Image 3 of 3
(Image credit: Future | Nico Goodden)
The Avata 2’s 1/1.3-inch image sensor offers 12MP of effective pixels at a fixed aperture of f/2.8, and with a field of view of up to 155 degrees it supports standard, wide-angle and super-wide-angle modes. While you can take perfectly good photos with the Avata 2, it remains a drone focused on video, and those who only intend to shoot photos may want to consider one of DJI’s camera drones instead.
The DJI Avata 2 shoots up to 4K at 60fps, all the way down to 1080p at 120fps, at up to 130Mbps. You can shoot footage in standard mode if you want to use it immediately, or D-Log M if you want to capture more detail and have the ability to color-grade your footage in editing software for more control over the final look of your footage.
DJI Avata 2 Video sample
The Goggles 3 provided in the Fly More Kit are mostly excellent – they fit very well, with minimal light leaks, and they’re comfortable, light and compact. Equipped with dual 1080p Micro-OLED displays boasting a refresh rate of up to 100Hz and certified for low blue light by TÜV Rheinland, they offer vivid colors and detail.
Yet I feel DJI has missed a trick here. It has incorporated two tiny lenses at the front of the goggles, enabling users to switch from what the drone camera sees to what those two lenses see in front of you with a simple double tap, without the need to remove the goggles. I doubt this would legally remove the need for a spotter as you still can't both fly your Avata 2 and look at your drone from afar as a spotter would. Unfortunately the angle of view is not the same as human vision, and it makes it awkward to do anything without removing the goggles anyway.
DJI has incorporated a new forehead support linked to the goggles via a small hinge. Initially I thought: “This is genius, I can now flip the goggles up using the hinge without the need to remove the goggles altogether”. Sadly, though, this hinge only allows for small fit adjustments, and not a full lift of the Goggles, which would have been such a useful feature.
Should I buy the DJI Avata 2?
(Image credit: Future | Nico Goodden)
Buy it if...
Don't buy it if...
How I tested the DJI Avata 2
(Image credit: Future | Nico Goodden)
I tested the DJI Avata 2 over the course of a couple of weeks, starting by flying in Normal mode with the DJI Motion Controller 3, then moving onto the Sport mode, and finally – and my personal preference – flying in fully manual mode using the DJI Remote Controller 3. While this is not a freestyle drone, it is considered a cinewhoop, and I wanted to test its ability to perform light freestyle maneuvers, from very low to the ground to high up, and from flying fast to slowing right down, and testing the ability to fly through various gaps, all in an environment I’m familiar with and in which I’ve flown many other FPV drones.
Testing was done on private property with multiple spotters, away from people and buildings, and in compliance with local aviation laws and restrictions to ensure that all flights were safe and legal.
I’ve been flying camera drones since 2014, and since 2022 I’ve been flying FPV quadcopters, which has been incredibly fun and very challenging. I fly a multitude of different drones, from sub-100g tinywhoops to carbon fiber freestyle drones, but also camera drones for the variety of creative opportunities they offer. I fly four leading brands of drones, and have no affiliation to any of them, so I’m able to produce impartial reviews to help others make informed buying decisions.
Huawei CBG CEO Richard Yu describes the new Huawei MateBook X Pro 2024 as “lighter than light”. The new laptop weighs only 980g (2.16lbs), some 30% lighter than the slender 2023 model. It’s quite thin too, measuring only 13.5mm.
Huawei MateBook X Pro 2024
Despite shaving off so much weight, the laptop is more powerful than ever – the new Intel Ultra 9 (185H) processor is 60% faster overall than the Core i7 (1360P) that was inside the 2023, with the new Arc GPU doubling the performance of its predecessor.
The X Pro can be configured to your budget. The base model starts with...
As we are preparing the Realme 12+ review, we have some battery results to share with you, which seem to be just about average for the price bracket.
The Realme 12+ achieved an Active Use Score of 13:03h while running on the MediaTek Dimensity 7050 chipset and having a 6.67-inch OLED panel running at 120Hz. A standard 5,000 mAh battery keeps the lights on, and it appears to be enough to provide dependable and somewhat competitive battery endurance, at least compared to most competitors in the same price range.
const BATTERY_TEST_PHONE_V2 = [12821, 12804, 12824, 12829,...
The PowerA Enhanced Wireless Controller with Lumectra succeeds as a very worthwhile alternative to the tried-and-tested Nintendo Switch Pro Controller. Not only does it undercut Nintendo’s official Switch gamepad in terms of price, but it’s fantastic on its own merits, offering a sturdy and comfortable build with welcome extras like programmable buttons and the titular Lumectra RGB lighting.
Said lighting effects are the star of the show and are fully customizable on the controller itself via several inputs. You can also expect rock-solid performance over a wireless Bluetooth connection and some fantastic-feeling buttons and triggers.
There are some notable drawbacks, though. Namely, this is exclusively a Nintendo Switch controller with very limited usability on Android phones. This also means no support for PC, PlayStation, or Xbox consoles. Some may also miss the lack of HD Rumble and - for amiibo collectors - near-field communication (NFC) support.
(Image credit: Future)
Price and availability
$64.99 / £59.99 (around AU$99.99)
Beats the Pro Controller’s price by $5 in the US
Available in the US and UK
The PowerA Enhanced Wireless Controller with Lumectra is only available in the US and UK at present. Coming in at $64.99 / £59.99 (around AU$99.99), folks in the US can purchase it from PowerA’s official website or Amazon or GameStop. UK shoppers will need to rely exclusively on Amazon.
It’s an impressive price point for US folks, especially, as they’ll find the controller is $5 cheaper than the Nintendo Switch Pro Controller ($69.99 / £59.99). Conversely, it is $5 pricier than the standard PowerA Enhanced Wireless Controller, for which you’re getting those lovely RGB effects. Otherwise, both are largely identical in terms of build, performance, and extras like those remappable rear buttons.
It’s great that the PowerA Enhanced Wireless Controller with Lumectra either undercuts or price matches the Nintendo Switch Pro Controller in the US and UK respectively, but it’s not a net gain. You are losing out on NFC support for amiibo scanning and PC support.
Specs
(Image credit: Future)
Design and features
If you’ve used a PowerA Enhanced wireless or wired controller in the past, you’re getting a near-enough identical experience with this Lumectra edition. This means you’re getting fantastic, sturdy build quality and an ergonomic design that rests easily in the hands. It’s an all-plastic finish (matte on the front and rear, with a glossier sheen up top) with lightly textured grips giving a secure feel.
By and large, buttons and modules are all very solid here; there’s nothing particularly outstanding or disappointing. The asymmetrical concave analog sticks and bouncy face buttons feel pleasant to use, and the d-pad - while rather basic - doesn’t feel overly mushy or listless; a problem I have with the official Nintendo Switch Pro Controller.
It’s the triggers that are a particular highlight here. While they have a peculiar pointed design, they’re digital, meaning you’re getting instant travel time for quick and responsive inputs.
On the rear side of the controller, you have two remappable buttons. They’re useful for assigning a secondary input should you need, and are easily managed by holding the center-rear ‘Program’ button for a couple of seconds, followed by the rear button you wish to assign, and finally one of the front-facing buttons, bumpers, or triggers. It’s simple and easy.
(Image credit: Future)
The star of the show here is the titular Lumectra RGB lighting; it’s genuinely awesome. By pressing the lighting button on the rear of the controller, you can enter Lumectra’s customization mode where you’re able to cycle through four highlighted lighting areas: left and right strips, left analog stick and face buttons, and lastly the d-pad and right analog stick.
Learning how it all works can be tricky at first, as customization all happens on-board (there’s no external app as we see with the likes of the GameSir T4 Kaleid) and there are a fair few shortcuts to learn. Handily, the included instruction booklet (and the online user manual available on the store page) will run you through all the shortcuts. These include altering colors, brightness, and patterns for each of the four areas.
After fiddling around with Lumectra’s settings, what results is a very eye-catching controller, and the impressive level of customization means you can create a wide range of patterns and colors. It’s the flagship feature of the product and some of the best-implemented RGB I’ve seen on a controller to date.
(Image credit: Future)
Performance
The use case for the PowerA Enhanced Wireless Controller with Lumectra is surprisingly limited, especially when paired up against other Switch gamepads. This is because it will only work wirelessly - via Bluetooth - with Nintendo Switch consoles. You can hook it up to your Switch’s dock for charging and a wired connection, but there’s no USB-C cable included in the box.
Now, this is fine if your intent is to play exclusively Nintendo Switch games with the controller, but those looking for something more versatile should know that it cannot be used on PC, which is a huge shame. You can hook it up to an Android device via Bluetooth, but in testing both native games and ones available via cloud streaming, I found input latency to be tragically bad, rendering it nigh-unusable for mobile devices.
Those gripes aside, this is still an excellent Nintendo Switch controller. Pairing via Bluetooth was instantaneous and it was highly responsive across a range of genres. Whether it was for more laid-back games like Princess Peach: Showtime!or action-heavy titles like Astral Chain and No More Heroes 3, the PowerA Enhanced Wireless Controller with Lumectra performed excellently.
Also noteworthy is the inclusion of full gyro controls, meaning games like Splatoon 3are perfectly playable with the gamepad, and it feels just as sharp and responsive as with the Nintendo Switch Pro Controller.
Unfortunately, some Switch-centric features have been cut. There’s no HD Rumble or NFC support for amiibo scanning. If you regularly play titles with scannable amiibo bonuses, then, you’ll need to do so on another device first.
In terms of battery life, PowerA claims you’ll get around 20 hours on a full charge. In my own testing, I managed to get roughly 15 hours of juice out of the controller before needing to charge, and this was largely with the Lumectra lighting enabled. With it switched off, you could undoubtedly squeeze a few more hours in here - though you would be sacrificing the controller’s best feature to do so.
This does fall short of the Nintendo Switch Pro Controller’s extremely impressive 40-50 hours but does fall in line with other third-party Switch gamepads such as the 8BitDo Ultimate and Rainbow 2 Pro.
(Image credit: Future)
Should I buy the PowerA Enhanced Wireless Controller with Lumectra?
Buy it if...
Don't buy it if...
Also consider
Want to learn about a broader range of top Nintendo Switch controllers? Consider the following options, which are some of our favorite alternative picks.
How I tested the PowerA Enhanced Wireless Controller with Lumectra
Tested for 20 hours
Tested with Nintendo Switch games and mobile titles
Compared with other excellent Nintendo Switch controllers
I ended up testing the PowerA Enhanced Wireless Controller with Lumectra for a total of around 20 hours. I primarily played many Switch games including Splatoon 3, The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom, and some retro titles via Nintendo Switch Online. While I found it to be an excellent Switch pad, it’s lacking on Android, with noticeable latency occurring on native titles like Honkai Star Rail and various streamed games via Xbox Cloud Gaming.
I tested the Lumectra side by side with some of my favorite Nintendo Switch controllers including the GameSir T4 Kaleid and Rainbow 2 Pro. PowerA’s gamepad stacks up to both in terms of performance and reliability, though I did miss some elements like the GameSir micro switch buttons and the Rainbow 2 Pro’s brilliantly clicky remappable buttons.
