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Opera VPN review
3:57 pm | June 30, 2025
Author: admin | Category: Computers Gadgets VPN Services | Tags: | Comments: Off

 The Opera web browser has included a simple free VPN for a very long time, but it only protects your browser traffic, has almost no features and is generally very slow.

Opera has now unveiled Opera VPN Pro, a true system-wide VPN which allows you to protect all your app traffic on up to six Android, Windows or Mac devices.

The service is accessed from the Opera browser rather than a standalone app, in much the same way as the free VPN: tap a button on the address bar and connect. But it's an entirely different service underneath.

You can now select countries (and sometimes cities), with 33 countries available. You're able to choose OpenVPN or IKEv2 protocols, depending on the platform. And rather than route your traffic through Opera's overloaded free servers, Opera VPN Pro uses the same network as NordVPN, delivering much better speeds (more on that below).

There still aren't a lot of features (more on that below, too), and there's no iOS app yet, but the price is certainly right. Opera VPN Pro is $5.99 billed monthly, around half the price of some monthly plans. It drops to $2.99 a month on the six-month plan, and only $1.99 billed annually, a tiny $23.88 for a full year's protection.

Opera VPN Pro Privacy

Opera doesn't keep any logs on its users (Image credit: Opera)

Privacy

Most VPN providers make huge efforts to convince you of their bullet-proof privacy, and that you'll be entirely safe with their service. Opera is, well, a little more cautious. Here's the relevant part of its privacy policy:

"VPN Pro is provided by a third-party service provider... Data communicated through VPN Pro will be encrypted and routed through one of thousands of servers... However, we do not promise that the service is absolutely secure. Despite our best efforts and the best efforts of our provider, criminals or other bad actors may still be able to access your data."

Is that worrying, unusually honest, or both? We're not quite sure, but it's something to bear in mind: Opera VPN Pro doesn't offer any big privacy promises, and it's probably not the best choice for privacy-critical tasks.

Opera says VPN Pro is a no log service, explaining: "We do not collect or store records of web pages you visit or links you click on in the servers dedicated for this Service."

Sounds promising. And as Opera VPN Pro is based on NordVPN's much-audited servers and network, we'd be reasonably sure that there's nothing harmful going on here. But Opera hasn't put its own apps or infrastructure through any audits of their own, so right now there's no evidence to back this up. We're left to take the company's words on trust.

Opera VPN Pro Windows App

To get started using Opera VPN, you'll just need to download the latest version of its browser (Image credit: Opera)

Windows app

While Opera VPN Pro can now protect your entire Windows device, it's still accessed entirely from the Opera browser. You must download and install Opera, launch it whenever you need protection, and click a VPN icon in the address bar to control the app.

That's a relatively heavyweight solution (installing an entire browser requires far more resources than a simple standalone client), but once you've launched the app, it looks and feels much like any other VPN offering.

Opera VPN Pro Windows App Locations

The location list is very barebones and basic (Image credit: Opera)

Opera VPN's dashboard is simple and free from clutter, which is just what we like to see. There's a connect button, and tapping the location option displays a list with all of your recent connection points at the top, as well as Opera VPN's server list. This is where you can pick and choose where you'd like to put your pin in the map.

There are no city-level locations, however, and no favorites system. This isn't a massive red flag, but it is a small quality of life feature that most top-rated VPNs include as standard, these days.

Opera VPN Pro Windows App Settings

You get some settings to play with, but hardly any and it's very basic stuff (again) (Image credit: Opera)

The only other feature is a Settings icon. Tapping this displays a VPN Pro section in Opera's general Settings page. This is even more basic than the location list, with little more than a couple of account management options and a reconnect feature (which automatically restarts if the VPN fails).

The app doesn't make any mention of protocols. Our investigations revealed it used a standard Windows IKEv2 connection, slower than WireGuard, but properly configured for maximum security.

Opera VPN Pro Kill Switch Lacking

Opera VPN Pro doesn't have a kill switch, but does use a reconnect feature – although that's bugged, sadly (Image credit: Opera)

Kill switch

The Opera VPN Pro website has no mention of a kill switch, and our tests showed why: it doesn't seem to have one. When we forcibly closed our Windows VPN connection, Opera displayed a 'Disconnected' message and reconnected within seconds, but it didn't block our internet and our device traffic wasn't protected.

This reconnect feature is welcome, and reduces your data exposure. It's no substitute for a working kill switch, though, and our tests revealed it had an odd 'feature' (or bug) of its own.

Suppose you've finished with Opera VPN, closed the browser, and you're connected to something else via a different Windows network connection – maybe a secure login for a work system. We’ll call this service X.

We noticed that if we forcibly closed X’s connection, then Opera VPN Pro acted like this was a failure in its own service, popped up a warning and tried connecting to its own network. But X was trying to reconnect, too. Sometimes Opera connected first, sometimes X, and sometimes that connection failed after a few seconds, presumably because the two systems were fighting over who was in charge, and they’d both try reconnecting again.

This may not happen much in real life. If you’re not using a second connection, it may never happen at all. But just the fact that the app can make such a fundamental mistake is a concern, and we’re left wondering what other issues might be lurking somewhere in its code.

New Speedtest Image

We use a number of different speed tests to determine the performance of each VPN we review (Image credit: Ookla)

Performance

We tested Opera VPN Pro's speeds with Windows systems in both UK and US locations, using multiple speed tests, over several sessions. That's a minimum of 120 individual checks, and it's often considerably more.

The results were relatively ordinary at 230-280Mbps. That's about what we expect for an IKEv2 connection (Atlas VPN also managed 230-240Mbps in recent testing, Hotspot Shield 220-260Mbps). However, WireGuard-equipped VPNs are typically two to three times as fast, and Surfshark and TorGuard reached 950Mbps+ in their last tests.

Opera's VPN has always been about privacy and security more than accessing geoblocked content, so we didn't expect much from our unblocking tests. And sure enough, it gave us very mixed results in both the UK (unblocked BBC iPlayer, couldn’t even access ITV or Channel 4) and Australia (succeeded with 9Now, failed with 10 play).

But the service went on to surprise us everywhere else, unblocking Netflix in the US, UK, Australia, Canada and Japan, as well as Amazon Prime Video and Disney Plus: a very capable record.

If you’re looking for even more, though, ExpressVPN, Hide.me, Ivacy, NordVPN, PureVPN and Surfshark all unblocked 100% of our sample sites in their last tests.

Opera VPN Pro Chat Support

Opera's Help Center is distinctly underwhelming (Image credit: Opera)

Support

The Opera Pro VPN support site is just about as basic as we've seen, with a tiny number of extremely short articles containing almost no useful details at all.

We opened the article 'Can I use Opera VPN Pro on my Laptop/Desktop computer?' hoping to find step-by-step guides to setting up the service, for instance. ExpressVPN has seven in-depth tutorials on Windows alone, but Opera's article was 58 words long, and said little more than 'it's available for Windows 8 and MacOS 10.15 or later, just download Opera Browser to use it.'

Live chat is available, but only Monday to Friday, 8am to 4pm (CEST). You can leave a message and the support team will respond by email, but officially this could take up to 48 hours.

We posted a test question explaining that Opera VPN Pro connected for us, but then we weren't able to access the internet on any apps until the connection was closed. That's typically a DNS-type issue, but would the agent give us any kind of detailed response to help figure that out?

The good news is the reply arrived quicker than expected, in around 18 hours. The bad news is it included nothing but the most generic advice that anyone with more than five minutes VPN experience would figure out for themselves: uninstall and reinstall, or try it on another device.

Opera VPN Pro Android and Desktops

Opera VPN Pro has too many shortcomings to recommend the service (Image credit: Opera)

Final verdict

Opera VPN Pro is a nice extension of the free Opera VPN service. It's capable of unblocking Netflix, thanks to a decent spread of servers, but dedicated streamers will be disappointed with its overall unblocking power. Opera VPN is somewhat basic when it comes to features, too, especially compared to our top-rated services. If you're looking for an all-rounder, you'll be happier elsewhere.

The Casabrews Ultra Espresso Machine is TikTok’s favorite coffee maker, but can it live up to the hype?
1:58 pm |
Author: admin | Category: Coffee Machines Computers Gadgets Home Small Appliances | Tags: , | Comments: Off

Casabrews Ultra Espresso Machine: one-minute review

Founded in 2020, Casabrews hasn’t been around for very long, and so, it really hasn’t had its chance to shine among some of the best espresso machines. That said, it has cultivated some buzz on platforms like TikTok, thanks to the brand’s mix of affordability and aesthetics.

The Casabrews Ultra takes things one step further and provides additional options for refining your espresso. I appreciate the approach of Casabrews developing a low-cost semi-automatic espresso machine that’s a kind of gateway into making great coffee at home. However, the espresso it yielded quite literally left a bad taste in my mouth.

Image 1 of 2

Espresso prepared using Casabrews Ultra Espresso Machine

(Image credit: Abigail Shannon)
Image 2 of 2

Iced americano prepared using Casabrews Ultra Espresso Machine

(Image credit: Abigail Shannon)

It’s true that a bad workman blames their tools, but ultimately, when I found myself about five hours deep in searching through subreddits and forums for a solution to my awful coffee, I realised that I was likely at the point where any actual customer would’ve sought out a new machine.

All in all, the Casabrews Ultra sits in a bit of an odd no-man’s-land, given that it asks for far too much of a casual, beginner user but delivers far too little customization and control for a hardcore coffee hobbyist. With some upgrades and a good deal of experimentation, the Casabrews Ultra could be someone’s espresso machine of choice, but I encountered far too many insurmountable problems during my testing period to be able to recommend the machine wholeheartedly. After the unfortunate loss of my old espresso machine, I’ve been on the hunt for a worthy replacement. But I can’t say the Casabrews Ultra will be inducted into my daily coffee routine anytime soon.

Casabrews Ultra Espresso Machine: price and availability

  • List price: $249.99 / £199.99
  • Available in the US and UK
  • Discounts available at the Casabrews website

Like the rest of Casabrews’ product lineup, the Casabrews Ultra is a pretty budget-friendly option. The machine will set you back less than $250, which is definitely on the low end of things for a semi-automatic espresso machine with a steam wand attachment.

You can purchase the Casabrews Ultra directly from the Casabrews website, often with a welcome discount to make it an even more affordable option. For example, at the moment, you can pick it up for $215. Third-party retailers like Walmart and Target are worth checking out for deals, too.

If you’re based in the UK, you can take advantage of the savings on Casabrews’ website too. In terms of third-party retailers, your main option is Amazon.

  • Value score: 4/5

Casabrews Ultra Espresso Machine: specifications

Casabrews Ultra Espresso Machine

Type

Semi-automatic espresso machine

Drink options

2 (single and double espresso)

Pump pressure

20 bar

Water tank capacity

2.3 quarts / 2.2 liters

Steam wand

Yes, manual

Size (H x W x D)

12.99 x 12.2 10.31 inches / 330 x 310 x 262mm

Weight

13.55lbs / 6.15kg

Casabrews Ultra Espresso Machine: design

  • Large, but attractive machine
  • Stiff steam wand articulation and portafilter
  • Useful floater in drip tray to indicate water level

When compared to other models from the brand, the Casabrew Ultra has a wider footprint, which is not great for tiny kitchens, but it certainly helps it look the part of a fancy espresso machine. Atop the machine is a little cup warming setup. Despite being a handy addition in theory, the cup warmer doesn’t actually transfer enough heat to achieve its one and only function. I found it much more effective to just use the machine’s hot water dispenser to prepare my cups.

The articulation on the steam wand is stiff, but it was nothing compared to the portafilter. I found it unusually difficult to twist it into place on the group head, even without any grounds in the basket. In fact, during my first few uses, I started to think that there may have been some debris on the shower screen or a warped O-ring gasket, causing the level of resistance I was getting.

Image 1 of 2

Espresso prepared using Casabrews Ultra Espresso Machine

(Image credit: Abigail Shannon)
Image 2 of 2

Casabrews Ultra Espresso Machine with portafilter inserted

(Image credit: Abigail Shannon)

After doing some investigating and disproving this theory, I just kind of resigned myself to accepting that the whole thing was just threaded really bloody tight, and so, making my coffee in the morning would be an unwitting workout for the rest of my test period. All that said, as long as I planted my non-dominant hand on the machine for leverage and let out a little grunt (yes, I’m almost certain that makes me stronger), I could mostly overcome that problem.

Outside of these stiff components, I have very few complaints about the build quality of the machine. Included with the Casabrews Ultra are baskets for one-cup and two-cup espresso: two pressurized and two unpressurized. The light plastic tamp/scoop tool serves far better as a scooper than it does as a tamper, so thankfully, a sturdier tamper is included as well.

Image 1 of 2

Cappuccino prepared using Casabrews Ultra Espresso Machine

(Image credit: Abigail Shannon)
Image 2 of 2

Casabrews Ultra Espresso Machine dispensing into cup

(Image credit: Abigail Shannon)

Another feature I appreciate is the floater in the drip tray. This buoyant little nugget of red plastic provides a clear indicator of when to empty liquid in the tray. Admittedly, it’s pretty bad form not to give the machine a cleanout daily, but who hasn’t forgotten to empty their drip tray for a week and discovered what looks like the contents of a petri dish? Just me?

  • Design score: 3/5

Casabrews Ultra Espresso Machine: performance

  • Recommended coffee dosage is much too high
  • Strange metallic taste (even when just used to heat water)
  • Steam wand works well once you're used to it

I was willing to accept that a $250 machine wouldn’t produce the kind of coffee worth swishing around your mouth and plotting on one of those coffee taster flavor wheels. What I wasn’t prepared for were quite so many shots that were ‘spit-it-in-the-sink’ bad.

My very first shot with the Casabrews Ultra was under-extracted, with minimal crema and a taste that wasn’t at all what I had come to expect from my chosen beans. Knowing that these tell-tale signs might mean that my water was travelling through the grounds too quickly, my first instinct was to up the dose of coffee loaded in the basket.

Image 1 of 3

Casabrews Ultra Espresso Machine portafilter

(Image credit: Abigail Shannon)
Image 2 of 3

Casabrews Ultra Espresso Machine portafilter containing tamped coffee

(Image credit: Abigail Shannon)
Image 3 of 3

REmoving portafilter from Casabrews Ultra Espresso Machine with coffee stuck on screen

(Image credit: Abigail Shannon)

The problem with that was – despite my leaning on the lower end of what the manual recommended for a double espresso – my basket was already basically overflowing. With each shot I had pulled so far, the puck touched right up against the shower screen and, in most cases, even stuck to it. Thankfully, the Casabrew Ultra allows for reprogramming shot volume and temperature, so I could play around with those variables in the hopes of achieving something drinkable (or even tasty, if I’m lucky).

Unfortunately, while the quality of my extraction improved, shot after shot, I was presented with a pretty foul battery-like taste that I couldn’t totally camouflage with milk or by diluting into an americano. Light roasts are notoriously difficult to dial in, so I started to think that maybe I was presenting the Casabrews Ultra with too steep a challenge.

Image 1 of 1

Casabrews Ultra Espresso Machine dispensing espresso

(Image credit: Abigail Shannon)

However, with payday too far off on the horizon, I couldn’t quite justify another bag of specialty coffee that I likely wouldn’t actually drink. As a compromise, I picked myself up a bag of Lavazza Rossa, a cheap but reliable medium roast that I used to chuck in my espresso machine as a teen prior to having adult money. It’s a sort of rich, chocolatey, everyman’s coffee that doesn't require too delicate a touch.

The Lavazza beans were pre-ground, which didn’t bode well for me achieving anything professional barista level, but at this point, I just wanted some coffee I could get through a full cup of without wincing. Besides, thanks to the pressurised basket, I could produce a shot with a nice faux crema even with beans that were technically a little stale.

The results were a familiar taste marred by an awful chemical, metallic note. I swapped in bottled water just in case the problem was Bath’s hard tap water, but it did very little to resolve the issue. Cleaning the shower screen, flushing, descaling – nothing seemed to do the job.

Iced americano prepared using Casabrews Ultra Espresso Machine

(Image credit: Abigail Shannon)

At one point, I served my partner cooled water that had run through the Casabrews Ultra to gauge his reaction (yes, I did this without warning; I never said my test process was ethical.). Lo and behold, he wanted to know why it tasted so metallic. It’s funny you’d ask, James. I was wondering about that exact thing.

Finding myself over 220g of beans down and yearning for a good coffee, I have to admit I was feeling pretty bitter. Given the 75% five-star reviews on Amazon, I can only assume this was an issue specific to the unit I tested or that the majority of customers use enough sugar and milk to hide any strange aftertastes. Obviously, the espresso-making part of the Casabrews Ultra is the main event, but it’s not all doom and gloom; the steam wand performed a whole lot better.

Milk steamed using Casabrews Ultra Espresso Machine

(Image credit: Abigail Shannon)

I first learned to make microfoam using a knob-operated steam wand, and honestly, I had no experience using one that was controlled via a button until I tested the Casabrews Ultra. Its steam wand has a couple of seconds of delay after you activate it, and given you aren’t in control of how quickly the steam output ramps up, it can be a real learning curve getting used to the rhythm of the machine. What’s more, the delay makes purging the steam wand just that bit more of a pain.

After some experimentation (and a refrigerated pitcher to make it harder to scald my milk), I managed to adapt my technique to create a microfoam I was reasonably happy with, which sported a silky mouthfeel and a pleasant sheen. A few visible bubbles lingered, but I’d say a lot of that was down to me being out of practice. Besides, there’s always the option to go full rip and make some dry foam when I’m in the mood for a cappuccino …I just needed to make sure I got my espresso elsewhere.

  • Performance score: 2/5

Should you buy the Casabrews Ultra Espresso Machine

Attribute

Notes

Score

Value

A low-cost machine with discounts available.

4/5

Design

A sturdy setup for the most part, but has some flaws.

3/5

Performance

For the most part, the Casabrews Ultra underperformed. Its espresso is a particular low point.

3/5

Buy it if

You’re big on milky coffees

Once you get the hang of it, the Casabrews Ultra’s steam wand is a solid performer that produces good microfoam.

You’re happy to give it a shot

Casabrew’s 30-day return window means that you’re not stuck using the Ultra if it just isn’t for you. View Deal

Don't buy it if

You want a machine from a legacy brand

Casabrews is something of a new kid on the block, and so there’s less information out there on troubleshooting, upgrades, or servicing.

You’d like a high-performing espresso machine

If you want a coffee that’ll get you out of bed in the morning, treat yourself to a machine that performs consistently and helps you get the most out of your beans.

You want a bean-to-cup machine

If you don’t fancy the hassle of seeking out a separate grinder, you’ll want to buy a machine that performs all those functions in one.

Casabrews Ultra Espresso Machine: also consider

Not sure if the Casabrews Ultra is the right espresso machine for you? Here are two others to consider.

De'Longhi Linea Classic

Despite setting you back $50 less, the De’Longhi Linea Classic delivered far better results than the Casabrews Ultra. Its reviewer even said it might be the “one of the best espresso machines for new and experienced baristas”-- that’s some high praise.

Read out full De'Longhi Linea Classic review

De'Longhi Dedica Style

The Delonghi Dedica Style is another great option for an espresso machine under $200. What’s more, if you want to save yourself the mess and trouble of puck prep, the Dedica Style also takes ESE pods.

Read our full De'Longhi Dedica Style review

How I tested the Casabrews Ultra Espresso Machine

My testing period for the Casabrews Ultra lasted three weeks, and during that time, I regularly made espresso and steamed milk to create drinks. Throughout this process, I alternated between using freshly-ground light roast beans from a local specialty coffee shop, and pre-ground medium roast commercial coffee. While operating the steam wand, I used chilled whole dairy milk, semi-skimmed dairy milk, or almond milk.

The main points of reference I had to compare the Casabrews Ultra to were the De'Longhi Scultura and the Breville Bambino.

For more details, see how we test, review, and rate products on TechRadar.

First reviewed June 2025.

The Casabrews Ultra Espresso Machine is TikTok’s favorite coffee maker, but can it live up to the hype?
1:58 pm |
Author: admin | Category: Coffee Machines Computers Gadgets Home Small Appliances | Tags: , | Comments: Off

Casabrews Ultra Espresso Machine: one-minute review

Founded in 2020, Casabrews hasn’t been around for very long, and so, it really hasn’t had its chance to shine among some of the best espresso machines. That said, it has cultivated some buzz on platforms like TikTok, thanks to the brand’s mix of affordability and aesthetics.

The Casabrews Ultra takes things one step further and provides additional options for refining your espresso. I appreciate the approach of Casabrews developing a low-cost semi-automatic espresso machine that’s a kind of gateway into making great coffee at home. However, the espresso it yielded quite literally left a bad taste in my mouth.

Image 1 of 2

Espresso prepared using Casabrews Ultra Espresso Machine

(Image credit: Abigail Shannon)
Image 2 of 2

Iced americano prepared using Casabrews Ultra Espresso Machine

(Image credit: Abigail Shannon)

It’s true that a bad workman blames their tools, but ultimately, when I found myself about five hours deep in searching through subreddits and forums for a solution to my awful coffee, I realised that I was likely at the point where any actual customer would’ve sought out a new machine.

All in all, the Casabrews Ultra sits in a bit of an odd no-man’s-land, given that it asks for far too much of a casual, beginner user but delivers far too little customization and control for a hardcore coffee hobbyist. With some upgrades and a good deal of experimentation, the Casabrews Ultra could be someone’s espresso machine of choice, but I encountered far too many insurmountable problems during my testing period to be able to recommend the machine wholeheartedly. After the unfortunate loss of my old espresso machine, I’ve been on the hunt for a worthy replacement. But I can’t say the Casabrews Ultra will be inducted into my daily coffee routine anytime soon.

Casabrews Ultra Espresso Machine: price and availability

  • List price: $249.99 / £199.99
  • Available in the US and UK
  • Discounts available at the Casabrews website

Like the rest of Casabrews’ product lineup, the Casabrews Ultra is a pretty budget-friendly option. The machine will set you back less than $250, which is definitely on the low end of things for a semi-automatic espresso machine with a steam wand attachment.

You can purchase the Casabrews Ultra directly from the Casabrews website, often with a welcome discount to make it an even more affordable option. For example, at the moment, you can pick it up for $215. Third-party retailers like Walmart and Target are worth checking out for deals, too.

If you’re based in the UK, you can take advantage of the savings on Casabrews’ website too. In terms of third-party retailers, your main option is Amazon.

  • Value score: 4/5

Casabrews Ultra Espresso Machine: specifications

Casabrews Ultra Espresso Machine

Type

Semi-automatic espresso machine

Drink options

2 (single and double espresso)

Pump pressure

20 bar

Water tank capacity

2.3 quarts / 2.2 liters

Steam wand

Yes, manual

Size (H x W x D)

12.99 x 12.2 10.31 inches / 330 x 310 x 262mm

Weight

13.55lbs / 6.15kg

Casabrews Ultra Espresso Machine: design

  • Large, but attractive machine
  • Stiff steam wand articulation and portafilter
  • Useful floater in drip tray to indicate water level

When compared to other models from the brand, the Casabrew Ultra has a wider footprint, which is not great for tiny kitchens, but it certainly helps it look the part of a fancy espresso machine. Atop the machine is a little cup warming setup. Despite being a handy addition in theory, the cup warmer doesn’t actually transfer enough heat to achieve its one and only function. I found it much more effective to just use the machine’s hot water dispenser to prepare my cups.

The articulation on the steam wand is stiff, but it was nothing compared to the portafilter. I found it unusually difficult to twist it into place on the group head, even without any grounds in the basket. In fact, during my first few uses, I started to think that there may have been some debris on the shower screen or a warped O-ring gasket, causing the level of resistance I was getting.

Image 1 of 2

Espresso prepared using Casabrews Ultra Espresso Machine

(Image credit: Abigail Shannon)
Image 2 of 2

Casabrews Ultra Espresso Machine with portafilter inserted

(Image credit: Abigail Shannon)

After doing some investigating and disproving this theory, I just kind of resigned myself to accepting that the whole thing was just threaded really bloody tight, and so, making my coffee in the morning would be an unwitting workout for the rest of my test period. All that said, as long as I planted my non-dominant hand on the machine for leverage and let out a little grunt (yes, I’m almost certain that makes me stronger), I could mostly overcome that problem.

Outside of these stiff components, I have very few complaints about the build quality of the machine. Included with the Casabrews Ultra are baskets for one-cup and two-cup espresso: two pressurized and two unpressurized. The light plastic tamp/scoop tool serves far better as a scooper than it does as a tamper, so thankfully, a sturdier tamper is included as well.

Image 1 of 2

Cappuccino prepared using Casabrews Ultra Espresso Machine

(Image credit: Abigail Shannon)
Image 2 of 2

Casabrews Ultra Espresso Machine dispensing into cup

(Image credit: Abigail Shannon)

Another feature I appreciate is the floater in the drip tray. This buoyant little nugget of red plastic provides a clear indicator of when to empty liquid in the tray. Admittedly, it’s pretty bad form not to give the machine a cleanout daily, but who hasn’t forgotten to empty their drip tray for a week and discovered what looks like the contents of a petri dish? Just me?

  • Design score: 3/5

Casabrews Ultra Espresso Machine: performance

  • Recommended coffee dosage is much too high
  • Strange metallic taste (even when just used to heat water)
  • Steam wand works well once you're used to it

I was willing to accept that a $250 machine wouldn’t produce the kind of coffee worth swishing around your mouth and plotting on one of those coffee taster flavor wheels. What I wasn’t prepared for were quite so many shots that were ‘spit-it-in-the-sink’ bad.

My very first shot with the Casabrews Ultra was under-extracted, with minimal crema and a taste that wasn’t at all what I had come to expect from my chosen beans. Knowing that these tell-tale signs might mean that my water was travelling through the grounds too quickly, my first instinct was to up the dose of coffee loaded in the basket.

Image 1 of 3

Casabrews Ultra Espresso Machine portafilter

(Image credit: Abigail Shannon)
Image 2 of 3

Casabrews Ultra Espresso Machine portafilter containing tamped coffee

(Image credit: Abigail Shannon)
Image 3 of 3

REmoving portafilter from Casabrews Ultra Espresso Machine with coffee stuck on screen

(Image credit: Abigail Shannon)

The problem with that was – despite my leaning on the lower end of what the manual recommended for a double espresso – my basket was already basically overflowing. With each shot I had pulled so far, the puck touched right up against the shower screen and, in most cases, even stuck to it. Thankfully, the Casabrew Ultra allows for reprogramming shot volume and temperature, so I could play around with those variables in the hopes of achieving something drinkable (or even tasty, if I’m lucky).

Unfortunately, while the quality of my extraction improved, shot after shot, I was presented with a pretty foul battery-like taste that I couldn’t totally camouflage with milk or by diluting into an americano. Light roasts are notoriously difficult to dial in, so I started to think that maybe I was presenting the Casabrews Ultra with too steep a challenge.

Image 1 of 1

Casabrews Ultra Espresso Machine dispensing espresso

(Image credit: Abigail Shannon)

However, with payday too far off on the horizon, I couldn’t quite justify another bag of specialty coffee that I likely wouldn’t actually drink. As a compromise, I picked myself up a bag of Lavazza Rossa, a cheap but reliable medium roast that I used to chuck in my espresso machine as a teen prior to having adult money. It’s a sort of rich, chocolatey, everyman’s coffee that doesn't require too delicate a touch.

The Lavazza beans were pre-ground, which didn’t bode well for me achieving anything professional barista level, but at this point, I just wanted some coffee I could get through a full cup of without wincing. Besides, thanks to the pressurised basket, I could produce a shot with a nice faux crema even with beans that were technically a little stale.

The results were a familiar taste marred by an awful chemical, metallic note. I swapped in bottled water just in case the problem was Bath’s hard tap water, but it did very little to resolve the issue. Cleaning the shower screen, flushing, descaling – nothing seemed to do the job.

Iced americano prepared using Casabrews Ultra Espresso Machine

(Image credit: Abigail Shannon)

At one point, I served my partner cooled water that had run through the Casabrews Ultra to gauge his reaction (yes, I did this without warning; I never said my test process was ethical.). Lo and behold, he wanted to know why it tasted so metallic. It’s funny you’d ask, James. I was wondering about that exact thing.

Finding myself over 220g of beans down and yearning for a good coffee, I have to admit I was feeling pretty bitter. Given the 75% five-star reviews on Amazon, I can only assume this was an issue specific to the unit I tested or that the majority of customers use enough sugar and milk to hide any strange aftertastes. Obviously, the espresso-making part of the Casabrews Ultra is the main event, but it’s not all doom and gloom; the steam wand performed a whole lot better.

Milk steamed using Casabrews Ultra Espresso Machine

(Image credit: Abigail Shannon)

I first learned to make microfoam using a knob-operated steam wand, and honestly, I had no experience using one that was controlled via a button until I tested the Casabrews Ultra. Its steam wand has a couple of seconds of delay after you activate it, and given you aren’t in control of how quickly the steam output ramps up, it can be a real learning curve getting used to the rhythm of the machine. What’s more, the delay makes purging the steam wand just that bit more of a pain.

After some experimentation (and a refrigerated pitcher to make it harder to scald my milk), I managed to adapt my technique to create a microfoam I was reasonably happy with, which sported a silky mouthfeel and a pleasant sheen. A few visible bubbles lingered, but I’d say a lot of that was down to me being out of practice. Besides, there’s always the option to go full rip and make some dry foam when I’m in the mood for a cappuccino …I just needed to make sure I got my espresso elsewhere.

  • Performance score: 2/5

Should you buy the Casabrews Ultra Espresso Machine

Attribute

Notes

Score

Value

A low-cost machine with discounts available.

4/5

Design

A sturdy setup for the most part, but has some flaws.

3/5

Performance

For the most part, the Casabrews Ultra underperformed. Its espresso is a particular low point.

3/5

Buy it if

You’re big on milky coffees

Once you get the hang of it, the Casabrews Ultra’s steam wand is a solid performer that produces good microfoam.

You’re happy to give it a shot

Casabrew’s 30-day return window means that you’re not stuck using the Ultra if it just isn’t for you. View Deal

Don't buy it if

You want a machine from a legacy brand

Casabrews is something of a new kid on the block, and so there’s less information out there on troubleshooting, upgrades, or servicing.

You’d like a high-performing espresso machine

If you want a coffee that’ll get you out of bed in the morning, treat yourself to a machine that performs consistently and helps you get the most out of your beans.

You want a bean-to-cup machine

If you don’t fancy the hassle of seeking out a separate grinder, you’ll want to buy a machine that performs all those functions in one.

Casabrews Ultra Espresso Machine: also consider

Not sure if the Casabrews Ultra is the right espresso machine for you? Here are two others to consider.

De'Longhi Linea Classic

Despite setting you back $50 less, the De’Longhi Linea Classic delivered far better results than the Casabrews Ultra. Its reviewer even said it might be the “one of the best espresso machines for new and experienced baristas”-- that’s some high praise.

Read out full De'Longhi Linea Classic review

De'Longhi Dedica Style

The Delonghi Dedica Style is another great option for an espresso machine under $200. What’s more, if you want to save yourself the mess and trouble of puck prep, the Dedica Style also takes ESE pods.

Read our full De'Longhi Dedica Style review

How I tested the Casabrews Ultra Espresso Machine

My testing period for the Casabrews Ultra lasted three weeks, and during that time, I regularly made espresso and steamed milk to create drinks. Throughout this process, I alternated between using freshly-ground light roast beans from a local specialty coffee shop, and pre-ground medium roast commercial coffee. While operating the steam wand, I used chilled whole dairy milk, semi-skimmed dairy milk, or almond milk.

The main points of reference I had to compare the Casabrews Ultra to were the De'Longhi Scultura and the Breville Bambino.

For more details, see how we test, review, and rate products on TechRadar.

First reviewed June 2025.

70 hours later, and I’m convinced The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom Nintendo Switch 2 Edition is a true system seller
1:55 pm |
Author: admin | Category: Computers Consoles & PC Gadgets Gaming Nintendo | Tags: | Comments: Off

Platform reviewed: Nintendo Switch 2
Available on: Nintendo Switch 2
Release date: June 5, 2025

The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild is one of my favorite games of all time, so I fully expected the sequel, The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom, to capture my heart too.

Unfortunately, I never clicked with Tears of the Kingdom when it launched in 2023, despite loving the concepts at play that gave players an endless sandbox to experiment with and an incredible physics engine.

Why, you might ask? Well, unlike when its predecessor, launched in 2017 on magical new hybrid hardware, Tears of the Kingdom not only chugged along at 30 frames per second (fps) with a lower resolution than the games I had become accustomed to playing on other consoles, but I also felt it lacked the feeling of new that made Breath of the Wild so magical.

Fast forward to 2025 and the launch of the Nintendo Switch 2, The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom Switch 2 Edition has completely revitalized my love for open-world games, and thanks to a huge performance boost, it’s now poised to sit on my Mount Rushmore of this decade’s video game releases. Read on to find out why it's one of the best Nintendo Switch 2 games, but let it be known: The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom Switch 2 Edition is one of the best video games ever made.

A breath of fresh air

Tears of the Kingdom Legend of Zelda Nintendo Switch 2

(Image credit: Nintendo)

The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom launched to rave reviews, cementing it as one of the best sequels of all time when it launched two years ago. There’s nothing else I can say about the game’s mechanics and story that haven’t already been said, so I want to specifically focus on the upgrades the Nintendo Switch 2 brings to Hyrule.

Back when I first played Tears of the Kingdom on the original Switch, I couldn’t help but feel like I’d played the game before. And despite running impressively on an underpowered handheld console, the experience was jarring, and it just never clicked for me.

As a massive fan of the series, I was incredibly disappointed; it almost felt like I had outgrown my childhood, and the magic had disappeared. Thankfully, I can confidently say today that’s not the case; I just needed a boost from 2025 hardware to make Tears of the Kingdom look and feel like it should’ve back in 2023.

The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom Switch 2 Edition is a paid upgrade to the original, available for free for Nintendo Switch Online + Expansion Pass subscribers, a paid upgrade if you already own the game, or by buying the full Nintendo Switch 2 version.

The game itself has no new content, per se; instead, it brings buttery smooth 60fps, a beautifully sharp resolution, and HDR, which makes the colors absolutely pop. I can’t emphasize enough just how much this version of the game feels like a total facelift compared to the outdated original version.

Tears of the Kingdom Legend of Zelda Nintendo Switch 2

(Image credit: Future)

My biggest gripes with the game when it originally came out were all related to the magic of Hyrule’s expansive world feeling limited due to performance bottlenecks, and now on Switch 2, it plays like the definitive version of this absolutely incredible game.

Think of The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom Switch 2 Edition like wearing glasses for the first time, it’s as if the blurriness is gone and you can finally experience what you’d dreamt of as a kid exploring Hyrule for the first time, whether that was playing Ocarina of Time or Twilight Princess.

Throughout my 70-hour playthrough, I haven’t encountered one performance hiccup, and on many occasions, I’ve had to pause to just stare in awe at the beautiful contrasting colors of the sky - I don’t think I’ve ever seen such a beautiful sunset in any game, ever.

The definitive way to experience Hyrule

Tears of the Kingdom Legend of Zelda Nintendo Switch 2

(Image credit: Nintendo)

If, like me, you couldn’t click with the original game, not to any fault of it own, but rather a fault of the hardware limitations it was confined to, then not only should you run out and buy this game, but it’s enough to justify a Nintendo Switch 2 console in itself.

While I haven’t played Breath of the Wild Switch 2 Edition, reading the review of that game on Switch 2 hardware tells a similar story to my experience with its successor. These Zelda games are just so good that an improvement to the experience by bringing them up to date for 2025’s standards makes them must-play, even if you experienced the land of Hyrule on Switch before.

Not only have I loved exploring Hyrule on my OLED TV in 1440p upscaled to 4K, but the performance upgrades here make the game a delight on Switch 2’s handheld mode. Running at 1080p with HDR enabled, it’s just the perfect experience to take your adventure on the go and not feel like you’re compromising.

Best bit

Tears of the Kingdom Legend of Zelda Nintendo Switch 2

(Image credit: Nintendo)

Gliding through the world of Hyrule on Switch 2 feels like you're experiencing freedom for the first time. Now with a crisp resolution and steady framerate, exploration has never felt so good.

Eight years ago, when I first experienced that feeling of continuing my adventure on my commute to work, in the park, or on vacation, it was the best gaming experience I had ever had in my life. Now, thanks to the Switch 2’s hardware, that experience is amplified to a whole new level, and all I want to do is finish writing this article so I can delve back into the land of Hyrule.

While some fans of the series will be disappointed at the lack of new content in The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom Switch 2 Edition, I think the game can already feel a little overwhelming with just how much it offers.

At no point in my playthrough did I wish for new experiences; I was just happy to relive one of the best games of all time, but better. And, truth be told, while there’s not really any new content, despite an option for a second save file (Thank you, Nintendo!) on the Switch 2 itself, do not underestimate just how good the Zelda Notes companion app is.

The cherry on top

Image 1 of 4

Nintendo Switch 2 Zelda Tears of the Kingdom Zelda Notes app iOS

(Image credit: Nintendo)
Image 2 of 4

Nintendo Switch 2 Zelda Tears of the Kingdom Zelda Notes app iOS

(Image credit: Nintendo)
Image 3 of 4

Nintendo Switch 2 Zelda Tears of the Kingdom Zelda Notes app iOS

(Image credit: Nintendo)
Image 4 of 4

Nintendo Switch 2 Zelda Tears of the Kingdom Zelda Notes app iOS

(Image credit: Nintendo)

Zelda Notes, an exclusive feature to the Switch 2 Edition of this game, can be found in the iOS or Android Nintendo Switch app. It’s almost an app within an app, bringing a whole new extra element to your adventure.

Not only can you navigate the map in real-time on your smartphone or tablet, but the app also unlocks dozens upon dozens of Voice Memories, which makes Hyrule feel even more alive. While I would’ve preferred Voice Memories, audio clips you can stumble upon in different locations in the world, to be included in the game, rather than in the app, the added lore has made me want to explore every nook and cranny to try and uncover the hidden details of the adventure.

The Zelda Notes app also gives you access to your full playthrough data, which is a lovely addition considering Nintendo still doesn’t give you detailed playing stats on the Switch 2 console, as well as the ability to share items and building concepts for Autobuild via QR codes.

One of my favorite additions to the game via Zelda Notes, however, is the Daily Bonus, which lets you spin a wheel every 24 hours to unlock a nutritious meal or other stat boost that might help you explore the deepest depths or highest skies of Hyrule. I found myself playing the game more regularly just to experience my Daily Bonus, and it was just the incentive I needed to keep venturing on with my journey.

Should you buy The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom Nintendo Switch 2 Edition?

Buy it if...

You’ve never played Tears of the Kingdom before, or are looking to replay it
This version of the game is the definitive way to play one of the best video games of all time. If you've never played Tears of the Kingdom, couldn't vibe with the less-than-stellar performance when it launched, or love the game and want to delve back in, the Nintendo Switch 2 Edition is worth picking up.

You’re looking for a reason to buy the Nintendo Switch 2
Yes, Mario Kart World is awesome, but after a while, it becomes your go-to party game rather than a reason to pick up your Nintendo Switch 2 after work. If you're looking for a reason to purchase a Nintendo Switch 2, this upgraded version of one of the best games of all time might be the perfect opportunity to do so. I don't say this lightly: Tears of the Kingdom in full 60fps is a system seller.

Don't buy it if...

You didn't enjoy the game the first time around
While I've just written over a thousand words on why this version of Tears of the Kingdom makes me love the game despite not enjoying it the first time around, my reasons for not clicking with the game were never related to the gameplay itself. If you don't enjoy open-world adventure and didn't click with Breath of the Wild or Tears of the Kingdom in the past, this new version of the game won't change your mind.

Accessibility

The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom Nintendo Switch 2 Edition doesn’t have much going on with it, accessibility wise. While you still have access to gyro aiming and the ability to rebind your controls from the Switch 2 menu (which won’t translate to the correct button prompts in-game), there’s nothing much to write home about.

You can't increase the text size, turn off motion blur, or make any other adjustments to help with playing the game. There's also no difficulty setting, so if you find the nature of an open world with breakable weapons too difficult, tough luck.

How I reviewed The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom Nintendo Switch 2 Edition

I played over 70 hours of The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom on Nintendo Switch 2, venturing throughout the main story as well as completing a variety of side quests dotted around Hyrule.

I had previously played the game on Nintendo Switch 1, but was never able to complete it. Combined, I must have over 150 hours of gameplay in Tears of the Kingdom, and I've also played and completed every other mainline Zelda game.

I played The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom Switch 2 Edition in a mixture of handheld mode on the Nintendo Switch 2 itself and on one of the best OLED TVs, the Samsung Q90D, using the Nintendo Switch 2 Pro Controller.

First reviewed June 2025

70 hours later, and I’m convinced The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom Nintendo Switch 2 Edition is a true system seller
1:55 pm |
Author: admin | Category: Computers Consoles & PC Gadgets Gaming Nintendo | Tags: | Comments: Off

Platform reviewed: Nintendo Switch 2
Available on: Nintendo Switch 2
Release date: June 5, 2025

The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild is one of my favorite games of all time, so I fully expected the sequel, The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom, to capture my heart too.

Unfortunately, I never clicked with Tears of the Kingdom when it launched in 2023, despite loving the concepts at play that gave players an endless sandbox to experiment with and an incredible physics engine.

Why, you might ask? Well, unlike when its predecessor, launched in 2017 on magical new hybrid hardware, Tears of the Kingdom not only chugged along at 30 frames per second (fps) with a lower resolution than the games I had become accustomed to playing on other consoles, but I also felt it lacked the feeling of new that made Breath of the Wild so magical.

Fast forward to 2025 and the launch of the Nintendo Switch 2, The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom Switch 2 Edition has completely revitalized my love for open-world games, and thanks to a huge performance boost, it’s now poised to sit on my Mount Rushmore of this decade’s video game releases. Read on to find out why it's one of the best Nintendo Switch 2 games, but let it be known: The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom Switch 2 Edition is one of the best video games ever made.

A breath of fresh air

Tears of the Kingdom Legend of Zelda Nintendo Switch 2

(Image credit: Nintendo)

The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom launched to rave reviews, cementing it as one of the best sequels of all time when it launched two years ago. There’s nothing else I can say about the game’s mechanics and story that haven’t already been said, so I want to specifically focus on the upgrades the Nintendo Switch 2 brings to Hyrule.

Back when I first played Tears of the Kingdom on the original Switch, I couldn’t help but feel like I’d played the game before. And despite running impressively on an underpowered handheld console, the experience was jarring, and it just never clicked for me.

As a massive fan of the series, I was incredibly disappointed; it almost felt like I had outgrown my childhood, and the magic had disappeared. Thankfully, I can confidently say today that’s not the case; I just needed a boost from 2025 hardware to make Tears of the Kingdom look and feel like it should’ve back in 2023.

The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom Switch 2 Edition is a paid upgrade to the original, available for free for Nintendo Switch Online + Expansion Pass subscribers, a paid upgrade if you already own the game, or by buying the full Nintendo Switch 2 version.

The game itself has no new content, per se; instead, it brings buttery smooth 60fps, a beautifully sharp resolution, and HDR, which makes the colors absolutely pop. I can’t emphasize enough just how much this version of the game feels like a total facelift compared to the outdated original version.

Tears of the Kingdom Legend of Zelda Nintendo Switch 2

(Image credit: Future)

My biggest gripes with the game when it originally came out were all related to the magic of Hyrule’s expansive world feeling limited due to performance bottlenecks, and now on Switch 2, it plays like the definitive version of this absolutely incredible game.

Think of The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom Switch 2 Edition like wearing glasses for the first time, it’s as if the blurriness is gone and you can finally experience what you’d dreamt of as a kid exploring Hyrule for the first time, whether that was playing Ocarina of Time or Twilight Princess.

Throughout my 70-hour playthrough, I haven’t encountered one performance hiccup, and on many occasions, I’ve had to pause to just stare in awe at the beautiful contrasting colors of the sky - I don’t think I’ve ever seen such a beautiful sunset in any game, ever.

The definitive way to experience Hyrule

Tears of the Kingdom Legend of Zelda Nintendo Switch 2

(Image credit: Nintendo)

If, like me, you couldn’t click with the original game, not to any fault of it own, but rather a fault of the hardware limitations it was confined to, then not only should you run out and buy this game, but it’s enough to justify a Nintendo Switch 2 console in itself.

While I haven’t played Breath of the Wild Switch 2 Edition, reading the review of that game on Switch 2 hardware tells a similar story to my experience with its successor. These Zelda games are just so good that an improvement to the experience by bringing them up to date for 2025’s standards makes them must-play, even if you experienced the land of Hyrule on Switch before.

Not only have I loved exploring Hyrule on my OLED TV in 1440p upscaled to 4K, but the performance upgrades here make the game a delight on Switch 2’s handheld mode. Running at 1080p with HDR enabled, it’s just the perfect experience to take your adventure on the go and not feel like you’re compromising.

Best bit

Tears of the Kingdom Legend of Zelda Nintendo Switch 2

(Image credit: Nintendo)

Gliding through the world of Hyrule on Switch 2 feels like you're experiencing freedom for the first time. Now with a crisp resolution and steady framerate, exploration has never felt so good.

Eight years ago, when I first experienced that feeling of continuing my adventure on my commute to work, in the park, or on vacation, it was the best gaming experience I had ever had in my life. Now, thanks to the Switch 2’s hardware, that experience is amplified to a whole new level, and all I want to do is finish writing this article so I can delve back into the land of Hyrule.

While some fans of the series will be disappointed at the lack of new content in The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom Switch 2 Edition, I think the game can already feel a little overwhelming with just how much it offers.

At no point in my playthrough did I wish for new experiences; I was just happy to relive one of the best games of all time, but better. And, truth be told, while there’s not really any new content, despite an option for a second save file (Thank you, Nintendo!) on the Switch 2 itself, do not underestimate just how good the Zelda Notes companion app is.

The cherry on top

Image 1 of 4

Nintendo Switch 2 Zelda Tears of the Kingdom Zelda Notes app iOS

(Image credit: Nintendo)
Image 2 of 4

Nintendo Switch 2 Zelda Tears of the Kingdom Zelda Notes app iOS

(Image credit: Nintendo)
Image 3 of 4

Nintendo Switch 2 Zelda Tears of the Kingdom Zelda Notes app iOS

(Image credit: Nintendo)
Image 4 of 4

Nintendo Switch 2 Zelda Tears of the Kingdom Zelda Notes app iOS

(Image credit: Nintendo)

Zelda Notes, an exclusive feature to the Switch 2 Edition of this game, can be found in the iOS or Android Nintendo Switch app. It’s almost an app within an app, bringing a whole new extra element to your adventure.

Not only can you navigate the map in real-time on your smartphone or tablet, but the app also unlocks dozens upon dozens of Voice Memories, which makes Hyrule feel even more alive. While I would’ve preferred Voice Memories, audio clips you can stumble upon in different locations in the world, to be included in the game, rather than in the app, the added lore has made me want to explore every nook and cranny to try and uncover the hidden details of the adventure.

The Zelda Notes app also gives you access to your full playthrough data, which is a lovely addition considering Nintendo still doesn’t give you detailed playing stats on the Switch 2 console, as well as the ability to share items and building concepts for Autobuild via QR codes.

One of my favorite additions to the game via Zelda Notes, however, is the Daily Bonus, which lets you spin a wheel every 24 hours to unlock a nutritious meal or other stat boost that might help you explore the deepest depths or highest skies of Hyrule. I found myself playing the game more regularly just to experience my Daily Bonus, and it was just the incentive I needed to keep venturing on with my journey.

Should you buy The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom Nintendo Switch 2 Edition?

Buy it if...

You’ve never played Tears of the Kingdom before, or are looking to replay it
This version of the game is the definitive way to play one of the best video games of all time. If you've never played Tears of the Kingdom, couldn't vibe with the less-than-stellar performance when it launched, or love the game and want to delve back in, the Nintendo Switch 2 Edition is worth picking up.

You’re looking for a reason to buy the Nintendo Switch 2
Yes, Mario Kart World is awesome, but after a while, it becomes your go-to party game rather than a reason to pick up your Nintendo Switch 2 after work. If you're looking for a reason to purchase a Nintendo Switch 2, this upgraded version of one of the best games of all time might be the perfect opportunity to do so. I don't say this lightly: Tears of the Kingdom in full 60fps is a system seller.

Don't buy it if...

You didn't enjoy the game the first time around
While I've just written over a thousand words on why this version of Tears of the Kingdom makes me love the game despite not enjoying it the first time around, my reasons for not clicking with the game were never related to the gameplay itself. If you don't enjoy open-world adventure and didn't click with Breath of the Wild or Tears of the Kingdom in the past, this new version of the game won't change your mind.

Accessibility

The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom Nintendo Switch 2 Edition doesn’t have much going on with it, accessibility wise. While you still have access to gyro aiming and the ability to rebind your controls from the Switch 2 menu (which won’t translate to the correct button prompts in-game), there’s nothing much to write home about.

You can't increase the text size, turn off motion blur, or make any other adjustments to help with playing the game. There's also no difficulty setting, so if you find the nature of an open world with breakable weapons too difficult, tough luck.

How I reviewed The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom Nintendo Switch 2 Edition

I played over 70 hours of The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom on Nintendo Switch 2, venturing throughout the main story as well as completing a variety of side quests dotted around Hyrule.

I had previously played the game on Nintendo Switch 1, but was never able to complete it. Combined, I must have over 150 hours of gameplay in Tears of the Kingdom, and I've also played and completed every other mainline Zelda game.

I played The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom Switch 2 Edition in a mixture of handheld mode on the Nintendo Switch 2 itself and on one of the best OLED TVs, the Samsung Q90D, using the Nintendo Switch 2 Pro Controller.

First reviewed June 2025

Samsung Galaxy Z Fold7 and Z Flip7 dimensions leak again
1:09 pm |
Author: admin | Category: Mobile phones news | Comments: Off

Samsung’s Galaxy Z Fold7 and Z Flip7 are expected to launch as the brand’s slimmest and lightest foldable phones next week. Ahead of the big announcement, leakster Setsuna Digital shared some preliminary dimensions for both devices. In related news, Evan Blass shared additional official-looking renders for Samsung's upcoming foldable, showing off their updated slim designs. Galaxy Z Fold7 Galaxy Z Fold7 will measure 8.9mm when folded and a mere 4.2mm when unfolded. If these dimensions are in fact true, Z Fold7 would edge out the current champion – vivo’s X Fold5, which is...

Samsung Galaxy Z Fold7 and Z Flip7 dimensions leak again
1:09 pm |
Author: admin | Category: Mobile phones news | Comments: Off

Samsung’s Galaxy Z Fold7 and Z Flip7 are expected to launch as the brand’s slimmest and lightest foldable phones next week. Ahead of the big announcement, leakster Setsuna Digital shared some preliminary dimensions for both devices. In related news, Evan Blass shared additional official-looking renders for Samsung's upcoming foldable, showing off their updated slim designs. Galaxy Z Fold7 Galaxy Z Fold7 will measure 8.9mm when folded and a mere 4.2mm when unfolded. If these dimensions are in fact true, Z Fold7 would edge out the current champion – vivo’s X Fold5, which is...

I used the Acer Chromebook Spin 312 for all kinds of tasks, and it handles most of them well – just not at the same time
12:10 pm |
Author: admin | Category: Chromebooks Computers Computing Gadgets Laptops | Tags: , , | Comments: Off

Acer Chromebook Spin 312: Two-minute review

The Acer Chromebook Spin 312 is the smallest device in the brand’s line of 2-in-1 Chromebooks, measuring just 12.2 inches. Despite this, it’s not the sleekest Chromebook around, with its sharp angles and juts spoiling the otherwise elegant design, which is aided by the quality of the materials used in its construction.

It’s quite thick and heavy for its size, so it’s perhaps not ideal for using as a tablet, despite its convertible nature. But thanks to that solid hinge for the lid, it can be propped upside down and used exclusively in touchscreen mode with ease.

It’s not just the hinge mechanism that’s well made – all aspects of the Spin 312 feel as solid and sturdy as any of the best Chromebooks, including the keys and trackpad, which feel premium to the touch as well.

Port selection is reasonable, too, although I would’ve liked to have seen more than just one USB-C port, and the lack of an SD card slot might be detrimental for some. Thankfully, there are two USB-A ports to improve connectivity options, and the HDMI port and audio jack are further additions I welcome.

The review unit I had came equipped with an Intel N100 processor and 4GB of RAM. Despite these underwhelming specs, the Chromebook Spin 312 performed admirably, handling many typical Chromebook workloads quite well. However, slowdowns can occur when pushed a little too far.

Close-up of keyboard and touchpad on Acer Chromebook Spin 312, on desk with pink background

(Image credit: Future)

Such cases include gaming, where the Chromebook Spin 312 struggled to run even fairly modest mobile games on high settings during my testing. However, lowering these did improve matters to the point where games such as Asphalt Legends Unite were playable to an enjoyable extent.

More pleasing on the performance front is the display. The resolution looks especially sharp on the 12-inch screen, although colors aren’t rendered as vibrantly as they are on some rival Chromebooks. The bezels also encroach quite considerably on the allotted real estate for the screen, and the display can be quite reflective under certain conditions. In most cases, though, it makes for a pleasant viewing experience.

The touch inputs are also quite responsive, tracking well with swipes to make drawing and handwriting a realistic option, although it can be a little grabby at times. You’ll also need to provide your own stylus if you want to make the most of your creative time with the Chromebook Spin 312.

I found the touchpad disappointingly inaccurate by comparison, as it failed to track with what I was expecting from my movements, leading to a lagging and stuttering, which in turn made it imprecise.

Thankfully, I had a better time typing on the Chromebook Spin 312, thanks to the generous spacing of the keys and their satisfying dampening. Their lack of indentations and grip, however, can lead to slipping and mispresses on occasion.

Its battery life is impressive, lasting just over 11 hours in our test. This places it near the higher end of the Chromebook spectrum – the Lenovo IdeaPad Flex 3 Chromebook performs significantly better on this front, although admittedly this is somewhat of an outlier.

The Chromebook Spin 312 sits somewhere in the middle of the convertible Chromebook market. Some rivals are better performers, while others have a sleeker design. But, overall, if you won’t be demanding too much from it in terms of performance, the Chromebook Spin 312 is a good 2-in-1 Chromebook for those who prize portability and a sharp image.

Acer Chromebook Spin 312 review: Price and availability

  • Starts from £329.99 (about $450 / AU$690)
  • Various CPU, RAM, and storage options
  • Middle of the market

The Chromebook Spin 312 starts from £329.99 (about $450 / AU$690). It can be configured with 64GB or 128GB of storage, 4GB or 8GB of RAM, and an Intel Core i3 or Intel N100 CPU.

This places the Chromebook Spin 312 somewhere in the middle of the market considering its spec. It’s considerably cheaper than the Samsung Galaxy Chromebook 2 360, which it bests in terms of performance, although its display isn’t quite as sharp or as vibrant, and lacks its premium design (although it isn’t too far behind in this regard).

However, the Chromebook Spin 312 is more expensive than the Lenovo IdeaPad Flex 3 Chromebook, which is one of the best budget Chromebooks in our view. This lacks the compactness of the Chromebook Spin 312 and the performance isn’t exactly impressive either, but it makes up for these deficiencies with its great build quality and enduring battery life.

  • Value: 3.5 / 5

Acer Chromebook Spin 312 review: Specs

These are the specs of the particular Acer Chromebook Spin 312 I reviewed:

Price

Starting from £329.99 (about $450 / AU$690)

CPU

Intel N100 (4 threads, 3.4GHz)

Graphics

Integrated, Intel UHD Graphics

RAM

4GB LPDDR5

Screen

12.2-inch WUXGA (1920 x 1200) IPS LCD, 16:10, 60Hz touchscreen

Storage

64GB eMMC

Ports

2x USB-A, 1x USB-C, 1x HDMI, 1x 3.5mm audio

Wireless

Wi-Fi 6E, Bluetooth 5.2

Camera

1280 x 720

Weight

2.84lbs (1.29kg)

Dimensions

11.4 x 8.1 x 0.8in (29 x 20.5 x 2cm)

Acer Chromebook Spin 312 review: Design

Close-up of left ports on Acer Chromebook Spin 312, on desk

(Image credit: Future)
  • Bulky for the size
  • Solid lid hinge
  • Only one USB-C port and no SD card slot

The Chromebook Spin 312 takes a somewhat utilitarian approach to design, with its sharp angles, large vents and lid hinges appearing quite conspicuous. However, it's still a compact device, and has enough flat sides to help impart some sleekness.

This is further aided by the steely grey colorway and look of the chassis materials, which have a subtle shine to them. What’s more, the quality of these materials seems high, feeling solid and fairly premium to the touch. This extends to the lightly textured keycaps and silky smooth touchpad.

The hinge mechanism is also reassuringly solid. There’s no wobble at any angle, yet it’s smooth and easy to open and adjust. This stability also helps when tenting the Chromebook Spin 312 to use it in touchscreen mode.

However, it can’t compete with the best tablets for usability. Despite its small 12-inch size, the Chromebook Spin 312 is a relatively thick and heavy slab, which can make it awkward to hold in the hand when folded back all the way.

The screen has a large bezel around it, which somewhat compromises the already limited real estate for the display. On a more positive note, it's made from Corning Gorilla Glass, so it should prove resistant to wear and tear when taking the Chromebook Spin 312 on your travels.

Port selection is reasonable for a Chromebook this small, although it’s a minor shame there’s only one USB-C port and SD card slot, as you’ll find two on many modern Chromebooks. Still, you do at least get two USB-A ports, and I also welcome the inclusion of a dedicated HDMI port and a 3.5mm audio jack.

  • Design score: 4 / 5

Acer Chromebook Spin 312 review: Performance

Acer Chromebook Spin 312 open upside down on desk with pink background

(Image credit: Future)
  • Capable of light work
  • Sharp but reflective display
  • Struggles with intensive tasks
Benchmarks

These are the results of our benchmarking tests for the Acer Chromebook Spin 312:

TechRadar Battery Life Test: 11 hours and 12 minutes
Jetstream2 Benchmark: 179.327
Kraken Benchmark: 1309.3ms
Speedometer 3.0: 9.52 (±0.52)

The Chromebook Spin 312 offers capable enough performance for everyday tasks, meeting the demands typically placed upon Chromebooks. Apps load fast and light productivity and general browsing are handled well. Despite its somewhat limited 4GB of RAM, it’s even capable of some degree of multitasking, coping well with multiple browser tabs open, for instance.

However, it can come a little unstuck when those tabs are running more complex activities, or when multiple apps are in play. The Chromebook Spin 312 can also generate a fair amount of heat underneath, which is bothersome when on your lap.

Gaming performance isn’t particularly impressive, either. It can handle some mobile titles, but you’ll likely have to play with modest graphics settings. When I played Asphalt Legends Unite, for instance, high settings caused stutters and considerable slow downs, rendering the game almost unplayable. However, it ran much better on lower settings, if not quite as smooth or as fast as some rivals can manage – and certainly the Chromebook Spin 312 isn’t a match for the best gaming laptops in this regard.

When it comes to video playback, the Chromebook Spin 312 can handle streaming content in 4K, although it’s not always the smoothest experience. The WUXGA display at least provides a sharp image: the 1920 x 1200 resolution might sound a little low compared to other laptops and some Chromebooks on the market today, but due to its small screen size, it looks sharper than you might imagine.

Close-up of right-hand side ports on Acer Chromebook Spin 312, on desk

(Image credit: Future)

It’s also quite bright when displaying lighter shades. However, while colors are rendered well enough, they don’t appear quite as vibrant as those on the displays equipped in the best laptops or best MacBooks, looking slightly washed-out by comparison.

The screen is also quite reflective, which, combined with its somewhat lackluster backlighting, makes darker scenes hard to view at times. However, the effect isn’t too troublesome, and compared to many other Chromebooks, the Chromebook Spin 312 is still great for viewing content.

The touchscreen capability is impressive, too. It responds well to all sorts of swipes and gestures, making for smooth doodles and handwriting, even if it's a little grabby at times. It’s also a shame no stylus is included to unleash the full potential of its functionality.

Unfortunately, the touchpad is less responsive, and I experienced issues with its tracking: many times it felt as if it was either dragging or jumping ahead, lacking the smoothness I was expecting. As a result, I struggled to use it accurately, which can really hamper productivity.

By contrast, typing with the Chromebook Spin 312 is a largely pleasant experience. The keys are satisfyingly damped and are spread surprisingly wide for a Chromebook this small. The keycaps also feel nice under the finger tips thanks to their texture, although they lack grip, which is made worse by the lack of indentation as well. This made the keyboard feel less secure in use, but overall I still found it amenable for typing quickly on.

  • Performance score: 3.5 / 5

Acer Chromebook Spin 312 review: Battery life

Back of Acer Chromebook Spin 312 open on desk with pink background

(Image credit: Future)

The battery life of the Chromebook Spin 312 is quite impressive. During our tests, where we ran a movie on a continuous loop, it managed to last over 11 hours. This makes it much better than the Samsung Galaxy Chromebook 2 360, which could only manage six and a half hours. It also beats the Acer Chromebook Spin 314 (2023), one of the best Chromebooks around in our view, which managed over 10 hours.

However, it can’t outlive the Lenovo IdeaPad Flex 3 Chromebook, which, when we tested it, endured for a remarkable 16 hours and 20 minutes. However, this is rather exceptional in the Chromebook world, and the Chromebook Spin 312 can still lay claim to having one of the best battery lives in the market.

  • Battery life: 4.5 / 5

Should I buy the Acer Chromebook Spin 312?

Attributes

Notes

Rating

Price

The Chromebook Spin 312 sits somewhere in the middle of the market given its design and spec, being cheaper than some rivals but more expensive than others.

3.5 / 5

Design

It’s solidly made and small enough to make it portable, although it’s a little bulky for tablet-style use.

4 / 5

Performance

The Chromebook Spin 312 can handle basic tasking, while the display is pleasingly sharp, if not the most vibrant and a tad too reflective.

3.5 / 5

Battery life

It may not have the very best battery life of a Chromebook, but its 11-hour performance still places it in the upper echelons.

4.5 / 5

Total Score

If you’re looking for a Chromebook you can use with touch inputs and doesn’t take up much space, you shouldn’t be disappointed with the Chromebook Spin 312 – so long as you don’t demand too much from it.

4 / 5

Buy it if...

You want something compact
The 12-inch size makes the Chromebook Spin 312 easy to travel with, and yet it doesn't feel compromised when typing or getting work done.

You want a 2-in-1 device
The 360-degree rotating touchscreen makes the Chromebook Spin 312 versatile, although it’s perhaps not best suited for full-on tablet-style use.

Don't buy it if...

You want the fastest Chromebook
Although it's surprisingly capable, those with more demanding workloads should seek more powerful models.

You want the sveltest device
Despite its small size, the Chromebook Spin 312 is fairly bulky and weighty, which impairs its tablet-style credentials.

Acer Chromebook Spin 312 review: Also consider

Acer Chromebook Spin 312

Samsung Galaxy Chromebook 2 360

Lenovo IdeaPad Flex 3 Chromebook

Price

Starting from £329.99 (about $450 / AU$690)

$429.99 / £419 / AU$707

$339 / £299 / AU$499

CPU

Intel N100 (4 threads, 3.4GHz)

Intel Celeron N4500 1.10GHz (2 threads, 2.80GHz)

1.1GHz Intel Celeron N4020 (dual-core, 4MB cache, up to 2.8GHz Burst)

Graphics

Integrated, Intel UHD Graphics

Integrated, Intel UHD Graphics

Intel UHD Graphics 600

RAM

4GB LPDDR5

4GB LPDDR4x

4GB DDR4

Screen

12.2-inch WUXGA (1920 x 1200) IPS LCD, 16:10, 60Hz touchscreen

12.4-inch WQXGA LED Display (2560 x 1600), touchscreen

11-inch IPS touchscreen, 1,366 x 768 pixels

Storage

64GB eMMC

64GB eMMC

64GB eMMC

Ports

2x USB-A, 1x USB-C, 1x HDMI, 1x 3.5mm audio

1x USB-A, 2x USB-C, 1x microSD, 1x 3.5mm audio

2x USB-C with charging, 2x USB-A 3.1 Gen1, microSD

Wireless

Wi-Fi 6E, Bluetooth 5.2

Wi-Fi 6, LTE (Option), Bluetooth v5.1

802.11AC (2 x 2) WiFi, Bluetooth® 4.2

Camera

1280 x 720

720p / 8MP

720p

Weight

2.84lbs (1.29kg)

2.82lbs (1.28kg)

2.64lbs (1.2kg)

Dimensions

11.4 x 8.1 x 0.8in (29 x 20.5 x 2cm)

11.3 x 8.1 x 0.7 inches (28.8 x 20.7 x 1.7cm)

0.7 x 11.41 x 8.18 inches (17.8 x 290 x 207.8mm)

Here are some alternatives if the Acer Chromebook Spin 312 doesn't sound right for your needs:

Samsung Galaxy Chromebook 2 360
The Galaxy Chromebook 2 360 is about the same size as the Chromebook Spin 312, but it has a thinner and lighter construction, as well as a more upmarket design, which is one of the best in class. The display is even sharper and more vibrant, too. It’s a shame that its performance fails to live up to its looks, but if you only have very light workloads, it’ll make a pleasant companion. Read our full Samsung Galaxy Chromebook 2 360 review.

Lenovo IdeaPad Flex 3 Chromebook
The IdeaPad Flex 3 Chromebook boasts great build quality and excellent battery life. However, it’s let down by unremarkable performance and uninspiring looks. Still, it’s powerful enough for light productivity and schoolwork, hence its inclusion on our best Chromebook guide. Read our full Lenovo IdeaPad Flex 3 Chromebook review.

How I tested the Acer Chromebook Spin 312

  • Tested for two days
  • Used for work and for entertainment
  • Chromebook reviewing experience

I tested the Chromebook Spin 312 for a couple of days, during which time I used it working, gaming, and general browsing.

I used word processing and spreadsheet applications, streamed 4K content on YouTube, and played games such as Asphalt Legends Unite. I also connected various peripherals via Bluetooth.

I have been using Chromebooks for a while, and have reviewed a number of them as well, ranging in price, form factor, and spec. I have also reviewed plenty of Windows laptops.

I tested the Acer Chromebook Plus 516 and liked its large display and fast performance – but it doesn’t have the best battery life
12:10 pm |
Author: admin | Category: Chromebooks Computers Computing Gadgets Laptops | Tags: | Comments: Off

Acer Chromebook Plus 516: Two-minute review

The Acer Chromebook Plus 516 is a large device with a reasonably strong spec, making it ideal for various productivity and entertainment needs. It might not look terribly auspicious, and the color is a little dour, but it's surprisingly thin for a Chromebook this size, which helps to make it more sleek.

It’s also a well-made machine, with materials that feel durable yet light. What’s more, the lid hinges allow for easy opening and offer stability at any angle all the way up to 170 degrees.

It also has one of the best Chromebook keyboards in terms of layout, with plenty of keys included, such as a number pad, without compromising spacing. This makes typing easy, and the snappy nature of the individual keys makes them satisfying, too.

The touchpad is equally capable, providing responsive inputs and plenty of accuracy, which, combined with its large size, makes for easy navigation. It also manages to keep out of the way while typing.

Close-up of keyboard and touchpad on Acer Chromebook Plus 516, open on desk with pink background

(Image credit: Future)

Port selection on the Chromebook Plus 516 is quite good, and I was pleased to see the inclusion of two USB-C ports. However, it’s a minor shame both are on the same side, which may limit your options when plugging into an outlet. Still, the two USB-A ports, HDMI port and audio jack are all welcome additions.

In terms of performance, the Chromebook Plus 516 handles most tasks well. It loads apps quickly and multitasks very well. Even mobile gaming on high settings is viable. It also takes Ultra HD content in its stride, streaming it without a hitch for the most part. Viewing such content is made all the more enjoyable thanks to that large, crisp, and vibrant display, which also does an admirable job of keeping reflections at bay.

Unfortunately, the battery life of the Chromebook Plus 516 isn’t particularly impressive relative to its rivals. During our movie playback test, it failed to break past eight hours, a threshold many modern Chromebooks can exceed.

With a starting price of £399.99 (about $540 / AU$830), the Chromebook Plus 516 sits somewhere in the middle of the market. However, it's good value when you consider its performance, display, and productivity credentials.

Acer Chromebook Plus 516 review: Price and availability

  • Starts from £399.99 (about $540 / AU$830)
  • Available from August in the UK
  • Mid-market pricing

The Chromebook Plus 516 starts from £399.99 (about $540 / AU$830) and is available in the UK from August in one colorway. Multiple storage, CPU, RAM and graphics options are configurable. A backlit keyboard can also be specified, as can a touch screen.

It’s about the same price as the equally capable but slightly smaller Acer Chromebook Plus 514. Like that model, the 516 sits somewhere in the middle of the market, but perhaps represents slightly better value owing to the larger screen size and extra keys.

However, if you still want great performance but at a lower price, the older Acer Chromebook Plus 515 remains a great pick, and its 15.6-inch measurement is still big enough to please those who prefer large displays; there’s a reason we think it’s one of the best student Chromebooks, after all.

If you’re after something cheaper still, we think the Lenovo IdeaPad Flex 3 Chromebook is the best student laptop for those on a budget. Its performance is no match for the mightier Chromebook Plus 516, and it’s also much smaller, but it has the advantage of being a 2-in-1 device, thanks to its 360-degree rotation and touchscreen.

  • Value: 3.5 / 5

Acer Chromebook Plus 516 review: Specs

These specs pertain to my review unit of the Acer Chromebook Plus 516:

Price

£399.99 (about $540 / AU$830)

CPU

Intel Core 3 100U (8 threads, 4.7GHz)

Graphics

Integrated, Intel UHD Graphics

RAM

8GB LPDDR5

Screen

16-inch WUXGA (1920 x 1200) IPS, 16:10

Storage

128GB UFS

Ports

2x USB-A, 2x USB-C, 1x HDMI, 1x 3.5mm audio

Wireless

Wi-Fi 7, Bluetooth 5.3

Camera

HD 1080p

Weight

3.75lbs (1.7kg)

Dimensions

14.1 x 10 x 0.8 inches (359 x 253 x 19mm)

Acer Chromebook Plus 516 review: Design

Close-up of left-side ports on Acer Chromebook Plus 516, open on desk with pink background

(Image credit: Future)
  • Smart and well made
  • Plenty of keys
  • Both USB-C ports on same side

The Chromebook Plus 516 adopts the fairly typical Acer aesthetic, with a sleek but understated appearance. There’s nothing particularly spectacular about its looks, but it’s at least free from too many fussy details.

Despite its large size, it’s pleasingly thin and not quite as heavy as you’d expect it to be. It’s no match for smaller Chromebooks in terms of portability, but all sides are quite flat and smooth, which helps when sliding it into your bag.

The build quality is on par with the best Chromebooks. Certain materials look more premium than others, but all feel solid and durable. The keycaps are perhaps the least impressive visually, but they’re tightly fitted.

The hinge mechanism is similarly well-engineered. The lid is easy to open and move into any position, and its maximum recline angle of 170 degrees makes it versatile for various setups. What’s more, it remains stable in any position; there’s next to no wobble, which is all the more impressive given its thinness and lightness.

The keyboard features numerous shortcut keys on the F row, all of which are quite useful. Highlights include one for taking screenshots, one for dictation, and one for opening a menu containing various accessibility functions.

Being a Chromebook Plus, you also get a Quick Insert key, used for accessing files, opening recent documents or creating new ones, inserting links, using AI tools, and other productivity-based functions.

The keyboard even includes a navigation cluster and number pad, both of which I welcome. More impressively, these don’t compromise the layout spacing, thanks to the width of the device itself. The touchpad also manages to not get in the way while typing, despite its relatively large size.

I was pleased to see the Chromebook Plus 516 features two USB-C ports, although unfortunately they’re both the same side, which somewhat limits versatility when plugging into an outlet. Still, it’s nice to have more than one, and the further ports – two USB-A ports, an HDMI port, and a 3.5mm headset jack – are all welcome additions. There’s no SD card slot, though, which might be a problem for some users.

  • Design score: 4 / 5

Acer Chromebook Plus 516 review: Performance

Acer Chromebook Plus 516 open wide on desk with pink background

(Image credit: Future)
  • Fast and capable multitasker
  • Can handle light gaming
  • Sharp display
Benchmarks

These are the results of our benchmarking tests for the Acer Chromebook Plus 516:

TechRadar Battery Life Test: 7 hours and 35 minutes
Jetstream2 Benchmark: 295.772
Kraken Benchmark: 398.5ms
Speedometer 3.0: 18.8 (±1.0)

The Chromebook Plus 516 is quite a capable performer. Creating and editing documents and spreadsheets is no problem for it, while switching between apps and multiple tabs is taken in its stride.

Gaming performance is also admirable. I managed to play Asphalt Legends Unite on high graphics settings without issue, running smoothly with little stutter. This was especially impressive given that the game recommended I play on lower settings based on the specs, but you’ll still want one of the best gaming laptops if you plan on playing more intensive games.

It can stream ultra HD content with relative ease as well. During my testing, I encountered little in the way of buffering or stuttering, making for seamless viewing in the main.

Back of Acer Chromebook Plus 516 open on desk with pink background

(Image credit: Future)

The experience is made even better thanks to the surprisingly vibrant display, which also avoids the washed-out appearance that afflicts some Chromebooks. Reflections do reveal themselves somewhat in darker scenes and unfavorable lighting conditions, but generally they’re kept at bay quite well.

Moreover, the 1920 x 1200 resolution is suitably sharp for its large size, which makes the UI very clear, while the thin bezels ensure that the most is made of the allotted real estate.

Typing on the Chromebook Plus 516 is also a pleasure. Despite the inauspicious looking keys, they perform well, with their light actuation and just enough dampening to make them tactile. Despite the inclusion of a number pad and other extra keys, I didn’t find the layout cramped, which made for an accurate and comfortable typing experience.

The trackpad is brilliantly smooth and very precise, tracking perfectly with my finger movements and gestures. As with the keys, it only requires a light touch, which makes it easy to use.

  • Performance score: 4.5 / 5

Acer Chromebook Plus 516 review: Battery life

Close-up of camera on Acer Chromebook Plus 516 with pink background

(Image credit: Future)

The Chromebook Plus 516 doesn't have a terribly impressive battery life, posting a below-average score during our test. We ran a movie on a continuous loop, and it gave up the ghost after seven hours and 35 minutes.

The Acer Chromebook Plus 514 we tested fared better, managing to last almost an hour longer. The much smaller Chromebook Spin 312 also eclipsed it, running all the way past 11 hours before total depletion.

However, the Chromebook Plus 516 still did better than the older Chromebook Plus 515, which only managed five hours. However, if you’re after a device that can really go all day, the Lenovo IdeaPad Flex 3 Chromebook is perhaps your best choice, as this lasted over 16 hours in our movie playback test.

  • Battery life: 2.5 / 5

Should I buy the Acer Chromebook Plus 516?

Attributes

Notes

Rating

Price

The Chromebook Plus 516 has a price you might expect for a Chromebook Plus, although its size and keyboard impart extra value.

3.5 / 5

Design

The Chromebook Plus 516 is pleasingly thin for such a large device, and the build quality is respectable. The keyboard is great for productivity, too.

4 / 5

Performance

The Chromebook Plus 516 can handle all sorts of tasks, including light gaming, while the sharp and vibrant display is great for viewing Ultra HD content.

4.5 / 5

Battery life

The Chromebook Plus 516 is far from the best in class when it comes to battery life, with many others capable of outliving it.

2.5 / 5

Total Score

The Chromebook Plus 516 is a great performer with a vibrant display and a useful keyboard. If you’re after a large Chromebook for work and play, it fits the bill quite well – so long as you don’t plan on using it unplugged all day long.

4 / 5

Buy it if...

You want a large display
At 16 inches, the Chromebook Plus 516 is one of the larger Chromebooks on the market, and the resolution is sharp enough to match.

You want fast performance
The Chromebook Plus 516 can handle most productivity tasks and even light gaming, thanks to its relatively strong spec.

Don't buy it if...

You want a convertible device
The Chromebook Plus 516 isn’t a 2-in-1 device, so it can’t be used like the best tablets.

You want the best battery life
Seven and a half hours is all you’ll get with continuous movie playback, which ranks in the lower half of the Chromebook league.

Acer Chromebook Plus 516 review: Also consider

Acer Chromebook Plus 516

Acer Chromebook Plus 514

Lenovo IdeaPad Flex 3 Chromebook

Price

Starts from £399.99 (about $540 / AU$830)

$399 / £399 (about AU$560)

$399.99 / £399.99 (around AU$633)

CPU

Intel Core 3 100U (8 threads, 4.7GHz)

Intel Core 3 100U (8 threads, 4.7GHz)

1.1GHz Intel Celeron N4020 (dual-core, 4MB cache, up to 2.8GHz Burst)

Graphics

Integrated, Intel UHD Graphics

Integrated, Intel UHD Graphics

 Intel UHD Graphics 600

RAM

8GB LPDDR5

8GB LPDDR5

4GB DDR4

Screen

16-inch WUXGA (1920 x 1200) IPS, 16:10

14-inch WUXGA (1920 x 1200) IPS, 16:10

11-inch IPS touchscreen, 1,366 x 768

Storage

128GB UFS

128GB UFS

64GB eMMC

Ports

2x USB-A, 2x USB-C, 1x HDMI, 1x 3.5mm audio

2x USB-A, 2x USB-C, 1x HDMI, 1x 3.5mm audio

2x USB-C with charging, 2x USB-A, microSD

Wireless

Wi-Fi 7, Bluetooth 5.3

Wi-Fi 6, Bluetooth

Wi-Fi, Bluetooth 4.2

Camera

HD 1080p

HD 1080p

720p

Weight

3.75lbs (1.7kg)

3.15lbs (1.43kg)

2.64lbs (1.2kg)

Dimensions

14.1 x 10 x 0.8 inches (359 x 253 x 19mm)

12.9 x 8.9 x 0.8 inches (32.7 x 22.5 x 2cm)

0.7 x 11.41 x 8.18 inches (17.8 x 290 x 207.8mm)

Here are some alternatives to the Chromebook Plus 516:

Acer Chromebook Plus 514
An almost-equally large Chromebook Plus, the 514 boasts a similar performance and spec, although I would say the 516 has a slightly better display quality. The 514 also lacks the extra keys of the 516, which might deter those interested in extracting the maximum productivity from their machine. Read our Acer Chromebook Plus 514 review.

Lenovo IdeaPad Flex 3 Chromebook
If you want something smaller, cheaper, and more versatile, look no further than the Lenovo IdeaPad Flex 3 Chromebook. It’s convertible, so you can use it like a tablet, and it has an excellent battery life to boot. However, it’s not the quickest performer, but it's still sufficient, which is why it makes the best student laptop for those on a budget in our view. Read our Lenovo IdeaPad Flex 3 Chromebook review.

How I tested the Acer Chromebook Plus 516

  • Tested for two days
  • Used for a variety of tasks
  • Abundant Chromebook reviewing experience

I tested the Chromebook Plus 516 for a few days, during which time I used it for a variety of tasks, including productivity, gaming, and browsing.

I edited spreadsheets and documents, used multiple tabs when browsing in Chrome, and streamed 4K content. I also played Asphalt Legends Unite, and connected various peripherals via Bluetooth.

I have used various Chromebooks and other laptop devices for decades, and have reviewed a number of them too (including other Acer models), varying in their price points, form factors, and performance.

Kuo shares detailed roadmap for Apple’s smart glasses and next Vision headsets
11:24 am |
Author: admin | Category: Mobile phones news | Comments: Off

Noted Apple analyst Ming-Chi Kuo published a new roadmap forecast for Apple’s Vision headsets and upcoming smart glasses. Apple is apparently going all-out on the smart glasses front with no less than four models being in development. The first will be a Ray-Ban Meta competitor with camera and video recording capabilities, speakers and a voice-controlled user interface and AI features. They are expected to enter mass production in Q2, 2027 and Kuo predicts Apple will reach 3–5 million unit shipments in 2027. The first-generation Apple glasses will offer several material finishes for...

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