The Dell Pro 14 Plus is the portable version of Dell's new line of Pro Plus monitors, following their recent name change.
The Pro 14 Plus features a 14-inch display, making it one of the smaller portable monitors I have tested, and it's probably the simplest in all respects. It's highly portable, easy to use, with no frills and no extra mess. It's sturdy, well-built, and offers a respectable price. It's a clear market for those who need more screen space on the go, without needing anything fancy or power-hungry.
(Image credit: Collin Probst // Future )
Dell Pro 14 Plus: Pricing and Availability
The Dell Pro 14 Plus is typically available for just over $300, and it's currently listed on Dell's site for $323.74. For this price, you get a standard 3-year warranty on a WUXGA 1920 x 1200, 14-inch display with two USB-C ports, a built-in multi-functional stand, and an easy-to-use package.
Dell ships these products worldwide, so they are available anywhere. Better yet, due to its compact size, you can also take it almost anywhere. It can slip into a backpack, briefcase, suitcase, or even just along in your arms without adding much bulk.
(Image credit: Collin Probst // Future )
Dell Pro 14 Plus: Unboxing & first impressions
At this point, I've tested several portable monitors. This one functions much like the others, except it feels simpler. The other portable monitors I have tested have cooler features or nicer displays, but what they cannot top is this one in terms of simplicity and ease of use. The Dell Pro 14 Plus comes with only two USB-C cables and a fold-out stand, so you're good to go. You plug in, and it works. Nothing fancy, no setup time, no wondering which port to plug into - nothing like that. It's plug-and-play in the best way.
Amidst all the other portable displays, what makes this one so interesting is that it provides more screen real estate when needed. You don't need 4K, you don't need OLED, or a fancy stand; you don't need something with ports, speakers, or any other features. This display checks those boxes of simplicity very easily.
Dell Pro 14 Plus: Design & Build Quality
(Image credit: Collin Probst // Future )
Specs
Display: 14″ IPS Resolution: 1920×1200 Refresh Rate: 60 Hz Brightness: 400 nits Contrast: 1500:1 Ports: 2× USB‑C (DP Alt + PD 65 W pass-through) Weight: 0.57 kg, 0.62 kg with built-in stand
There isn't a whole lot to say about design -- and that's a good thing. This is a simple panel with a fold-out stand. It features two USB-C ports, one on either side of the stand, for easy use. The shell is constructed from slim aluminum with a plastic casing and rubber edges for enhanced grip and protection against scratches.
The bottom of the monitor, when used in landscape mode, features a slight chin with minimal branding, nothing too elaborate or complicated. The top of that same orientation view has a smaller chin, but still retains a slight bezel.
Due to its design, this monitor can be easily rotated to a vertical or portrait orientation, making it a more functional stand by far. This also explains why they placed one USB-C port on either side, allowing for a spot to plug the monitor into your computer from any angle.
(Image credit: Collin Probst // Future )
Dell Pro 14 Plus: In use
This has been a fantastic little display to keep in a lightweight backpack for a trip, to use when working away from my desk, or even to add just a bit more screen space to my main desk. One thing to note right off the bat is that yes, this is only a 1080p display. It's nothing brilliant, and it's not overly impressive, but that's also what makes it great for certain things. I think of it like why I love my iPad Mini 7. It's not the best by any means, but the size and simplicity help me realize that it's not supposed to replace my primary machine. This display is unapologetically secondary; it's meant to enhance, not replace or become primary. Some of these other portable displays have become my primary workspace when I use them, for better and for worse. But the Pro 14 Plus stays secondary in every situation.
With that in mind, it's fine that it's not the best in terms of graphics, colors, or size. The ergonomics with the fold-out kickstand make it easy to set up, the anti-glare screen helps reduce distractions, the easy USB-C port means that I won't try to use it as a dock too, or try to run anything through it, I'll remember that all this is used for is expanding my workspace just a tad. There are no speakers, no high refresh rate, no mics, and no cameras. No frills, just a simple 14-inch addition to my screen.
The simplicity of this screen is what makes it special, just like the iPad mini. I can throw this in my bag and forget it's there, except when I want to be able to throw Notion, Slack, Spotify, Jira, Basecamp, Asana, metrics, or my email up on a dedicated screen to keep an eye on it while I knock out my work on my laptop. It's great for that, and for some, that's exactly what they want.
Attributes
Notes
Rating
Design
Sleek and minimal
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Ease of use
Very easy to use
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Practicality
Practical for many
⭐⭐⭐⭐
Price
Understandably priced
⭐⭐⭐⭐
Dell Pro 14 Plus: Final verdict
The Dell Pro 14 Plus is simple, easy to use, easy to move, and easy to remember its purpose. It's got okay specs, but what makes it great is that it knows what it is and isn't. And that's a lot more than what some tech these days can say.
The Dell Pro 14 Plus is the portable version of Dell's new line of Pro Plus monitors, following their recent name change.
The Pro 14 Plus features a 14-inch display, making it one of the smaller portable monitors I have tested, and it's probably the simplest in all respects. It's highly portable, easy to use, with no frills and no extra mess. It's sturdy, well-built, and offers a respectable price. It's a clear market for those who need more screen space on the go, without needing anything fancy or power-hungry.
(Image credit: Collin Probst // Future )
Dell Pro 14 Plus: Pricing and Availability
The Dell Pro 14 Plus is typically available for just over $300, and it's currently listed on Dell's site for $323.74. For this price, you get a standard 3-year warranty on a WUXGA 1920 x 1200, 14-inch display with two USB-C ports, a built-in multi-functional stand, and an easy-to-use package.
Dell ships these products worldwide, so they are available anywhere. Better yet, due to its compact size, you can also take it almost anywhere. It can slip into a backpack, briefcase, suitcase, or even just along in your arms without adding much bulk.
(Image credit: Collin Probst // Future )
Dell Pro 14 Plus: Unboxing & first impressions
At this point, I've tested several portable monitors. This one functions much like the others, except it feels simpler. The other portable monitors I have tested have cooler features or nicer displays, but what they cannot top is this one in terms of simplicity and ease of use. The Dell Pro 14 Plus comes with only two USB-C cables and a fold-out stand, so you're good to go. You plug in, and it works. Nothing fancy, no setup time, no wondering which port to plug into - nothing like that. It's plug-and-play in the best way.
Amidst all the other portable displays, what makes this one so interesting is that it provides more screen real estate when needed. You don't need 4K, you don't need OLED, or a fancy stand; you don't need something with ports, speakers, or any other features. This display checks those boxes of simplicity very easily.
Dell Pro 14 Plus: Design & Build Quality
(Image credit: Collin Probst // Future )
Specs
Display: 14″ IPS Resolution: 1920×1200 Refresh Rate: 60 Hz Brightness: 400 nits Contrast: 1500:1 Ports: 2× USB‑C (DP Alt + PD 65 W pass-through) Weight: 0.57 kg, 0.62 kg with built-in stand
There isn't a whole lot to say about design -- and that's a good thing. This is a simple panel with a fold-out stand. It features two USB-C ports, one on either side of the stand, for easy use. The shell is constructed from slim aluminum with a plastic casing and rubber edges for enhanced grip and protection against scratches.
The bottom of the monitor, when used in landscape mode, features a slight chin with minimal branding, nothing too elaborate or complicated. The top of that same orientation view has a smaller chin, but still retains a slight bezel.
Due to its design, this monitor can be easily rotated to a vertical or portrait orientation, making it a more functional stand by far. This also explains why they placed one USB-C port on either side, allowing for a spot to plug the monitor into your computer from any angle.
(Image credit: Collin Probst // Future )
Dell Pro 14 Plus: In use
This has been a fantastic little display to keep in a lightweight backpack for a trip, to use when working away from my desk, or even to add just a bit more screen space to my main desk. One thing to note right off the bat is that yes, this is only a 1080p display. It's nothing brilliant, and it's not overly impressive, but that's also what makes it great for certain things. I think of it like why I love my iPad Mini 7. It's not the best by any means, but the size and simplicity help me realize that it's not supposed to replace my primary machine. This display is unapologetically secondary; it's meant to enhance, not replace or become primary. Some of these other portable displays have become my primary workspace when I use them, for better and for worse. But the Pro 14 Plus stays secondary in every situation.
With that in mind, it's fine that it's not the best in terms of graphics, colors, or size. The ergonomics with the fold-out kickstand make it easy to set up, the anti-glare screen helps reduce distractions, the easy USB-C port means that I won't try to use it as a dock too, or try to run anything through it, I'll remember that all this is used for is expanding my workspace just a tad. There are no speakers, no high refresh rate, no mics, and no cameras. No frills, just a simple 14-inch addition to my screen.
The simplicity of this screen is what makes it special, just like the iPad mini. I can throw this in my bag and forget it's there, except when I want to be able to throw Notion, Slack, Spotify, Jira, Basecamp, Asana, metrics, or my email up on a dedicated screen to keep an eye on it while I knock out my work on my laptop. It's great for that, and for some, that's exactly what they want.
Attributes
Notes
Rating
Design
Sleek and minimal
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Ease of use
Very easy to use
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Practicality
Practical for many
⭐⭐⭐⭐
Price
Understandably priced
⭐⭐⭐⭐
Dell Pro 14 Plus: Final verdict
The Dell Pro 14 Plus is simple, easy to use, easy to move, and easy to remember its purpose. It's got okay specs, but what makes it great is that it knows what it is and isn't. And that's a lot more than what some tech these days can say.
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The Philips LatteGo 5500 Series is a compact fully automatic espresso machine that's a solid choice for couples and individuals. It has a relatively small water tank and bean hopper that's perfect for making a couple of cups, so you won't have large quantities of coffee and water going stale.
The built-in ceramic grinder offers some super-fine grind settings, and with just a little adjustment you should be able to brew consistently well-extracted espresso, which you can enjoy alone or as the foundation of over 15 different drinks. The most popular options (such as cappuccino and americano) are accessible via buttons beside the color display, while others can be found by tapping "other drinks" and selecting either hot or iced beverages.
It's worth noting that the LatteGo 5500 Series doesn't offer cold coffee extraction. Instead, you're prompted to add six to eight ice cubes to your cup, and the machine pours over a shot of hot espresso (followed by cold-foamed milk, if appropriate for your chosen drink). The results are OK, but you don't get the same mellow flavor you do from coffee infused using cold water, and the melting of the ice means drinks usually made without water can taste weak.
The LatteGo milk system works well, producing a thick and creamy foam from plant or dairy milk (Image credit: Future)
For me, the most interesting feature is the LatteGo's automatic milk-foaming system. Unlike most other coffee makers I've tested, the 5500 Series has a milk carafe that clips onto a steam nozzle on the front of the machine, and is designed to be filled while attached.
This might seem odd at first, but it actually makes a lot of sense. Not carrying containers of milk across the kitchen means less risk of spillage, and this carafe isn't intended for storing milk in the fridge between brews. Instead, it has markers on the side that show you exactly how much to add for different drinks, meaning there won't be any left at the end, and the carafe can be washed out, ready for next time (either by hand or in a dishwasher). It's a smart system for making just one or two drinks.
You do have to be very careful with how you position your cup, though. There's no way to adjust the LatteGo system's spout, and your cup needs to be further forward on the drip tray than you'd expect. Move it over the red water-level indicator, then a bit further still to avoid your milk spilling over the edge.
Overall, this is a well-made bean-to-cup machine for small households (or ones with just one coffee-drinker), and it does the basics very well. It wouldn't be my top choice if you want to make cold drinks regularly, however. For that, you'd be better opting for a machine that can handle cold extraction, so your drink isn't watered down. Take a look at my list of the best cold-brew coffee machines for some suggestions.
Philips LatteGo 5500 Series: price and availability
List price $1,099.95 / £649.99 / AU$1,194
Available globally
Often discounted in the UK
The Philips LatteGo 5500 Series is available globally, and has a list price of $1,099.95 / £649.99 / AU$1,194 (although it’s often reduced to £549.99 in the UK). It’s the top-tier model in the LatteGo series, with 20 hot and cold drink options compared to 12 drinks for the less expensive 4400 Series. You’ll find all today’s best deals on the LatteGo 5500 Series listed below.
That price is about standard for a compact bean-to-cup espresso machine, and is roughly the same as the De’Longhi La Specialista Touch. However, the La Specialista Touch offers greater control over brewing options, along with both manual and automatic milk-foaming.
Value score: 3.5/5
Philips LatteGo 5500 Series: Specifications
Name
Philips LatteGo 5500 Series
Type
Fully automatic bean-to-cup espresso machine
Dimensions (W x H x D)
9.7 x 14.6 x 17in / 24.6 x 37.1 x 43.3cm
Weight
17.6lbs / 8kg
Water reservoir capacity
1.9qt / 1.8 liters
Milk frother
Yes (automatic)
Bars of pressure
15
User profiles
4 (plus guest)
Philips LatteGo 5500 Series: Design
Well suited to individuals or couples
LatteGo system is easy to use and clean
Simple button-based interface
At just 9.7 inches / 24.6cm wide, the Philips LatteGo 5500 Series is one of the narrowest espresso machines I’ve tested to date. It's ideal for tucking into small spaces – particularly because the water tank slides out of the front, so you only need to access the side of the machine when it’s time to clean the brewing group.
Although it has four user profiles (plus a guest option for visitors), this machine is best suited to individuals or couples who only want to make one or two drinks at once. Its 1.9qt / 1.8-liter water tank is quite small, and the optional (but recommended) water filter supplied with the machine takes up quite a lot of space, effectively making it smaller still.
Image 1 of 2
The LatteGo 5500 Series has quite a small water tank, which is fine for single people and couples (Image credit: Future)
Image 2 of 2
The water filter supplied is quite large, and uses a considerable amount of the tank's capacity (Image credit: Future)
At first that sounds like it could be a problem, but when you’re only making a couple of drinks at once it’s fine, and refilling the tank regularly is always a good idea. Most of your coffee is made of water, so you want to keep it fresh.
As the name suggests, one of the LatteGo 5500 Series’ key features is its milk system, which comprises a small carafe that pushes onto a steam nozzle on the front of the machine. Unlike every other automatic espresso machine I’ve tested, you fill this container while it’s attached to the machine. This feels odd at first, but it actually makes sense; no carrying containers of milk across the kitchen means no potential for spillage.
Image 1 of 2
The LatteGo system has just two removeable parts, and is easy to keep clean between uses (Image credit: Future)
Image 2 of 2
The milk carafe is filled while attached to the machine, which is quite unusual (Image credit: Future)
Markings on the side of the carafe show how far to fill it for different drinks, whether you’re preparing one or two cups. The idea is that you’ll use all the milk in one go. Unlike most other machines (such as the Jura J10, for example), the LatteGo’s carafe isn’t airtight. Nor is it intended to be stored in the fridge with milk inside between uses. Instead, you add just the amount of milk you need, then wash it out for next time (either by hand or in the top drawer of the dishwasher) to keep everything fresh.
The bean hopper doesn’t have a huge capacity either. Again, this is no bad thing for a machine intended for just one or two people, because it means you won’t have unused beans hanging around for too long.
The hopper has a tinted plastic lid to help stop light degrading the flavor compounds in the beans, and an airtight seal to keep them fresh. The seal also helps muffle the noise of the machine’s ceramic grinder. Indeed, this espresso machine is one of the quietest I’ve tested, with both the grinder and milk system making very little noise.
Image 1 of 2
The LatteGo 5500 Series has a fairly small bean hopper, which means individuals and couples won't have to worry about lots of beans going stale (Image credit: Future)
Image 2 of 2
The grind size is adjusted using a small dial in the hopper (Image credit: Future)
The grind size is adjusted using a small dial inside the hopper. I would have preferred this to be on the outside for accessibility, but that’s a minor quibble. For me, the bigger issue was the height of the hopper, which made it tricky to open and refill when the machine was under a cabinet. The machine is quite light, but if you don’t have much headroom, you’ll have to shimmy it out when it’s time to refill.
Just in front of the hopper, you’ll find a chute for adding a scoop of pre-ground coffee if you’d like to switch to something different, such as decaf for after lunch.
The drip tray is nice and deep, which again helps to avoid spillage, with a pouring spout at the back for easy emptying, plus a level indicator so you can see at a glance when it’s time to empty it. There’s also a deep detachable container for used coffee grounds, and the LatteGo 5500 Series will alert you when it needs emptying.
The drip tray has high sides to prevent spillage, and there's a generously-sized container for used coffee grounds (Image credit: Future)
This alert will appear on the machine’s TFT display, which is surrounded by a set of buttons that provide quick access to the most popular drink options. The rest are accessed by pressing the "More drinks" button, which presents you with a choice of two lists: one for hot beverages, and one for iced.
Selecting the "Setting"' button will reveal more comprehensive brewing options, including the ability to change the temperature, plus various energy-saving settings such as toggling the lights above your cup, and determining how long the machine should wait before powering off.
It was refreshing to see that the machine’s packaging was mostly cardboard, with only a few plastic bags for components. Even the best coffee makers are often packaged in large pieces of polystyrene
Design score: 4/5
Philips LatteGo 5500 Series: performance
Brews well-balanced espresso once grinder is dialled in
Iced coffee isn't cold-extracted
LatteGo milk spout is somewhat awkward
The LatteGo is very simple to use, and the buttons around the display will be all most users need on an everyday basis. Select a beverage, and you’ll be able to tweak a few options to determine the strength and volume of your drink, then the machine will handle the rest.
There’s no equivalent of De’Longhi’s BeanAdapt system for configuring the brew settings to suit your chosen coffee, but adjusting the grinder and tweaking the options when preparing your coffee should allow you to create consistently well-extracted espresso.
Each time you change the brew settings for a drink, your adjustments will be saved to the currently selected profile (red, blue, yellow or green). You can switch between profiles by tapping a button on the left of the screen, and there’s an extra guest profile, so visitors don’t accidentally override your custom cappuccino settings.
There are four colored profiles to store custom drink preferences, plus a guest profile so visitors don't override your favorites (Image credit: Future)
You can use the LatteGo system with any type of milk you choose. During my tests, whole and full-fat dairy milk foamed well, as did oat milk – although the results were less impressive when using one of the iced drink options, which dispense cold milk. An iced cappuccino had some foam on top, but not very much compared to the same drink brewed hot.
I particularly like that the LatteGo system is so easy to keep clean. The carafe comes in two parts, which are easy to unclip, and there are no awkward tubes to clean. Milk never enters the body of the coffee machine either, so you don’t need to worry about bacteria breeding inside.
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It's easy to adjust the volume of drinks to suit different-sized cups (Image credit: Future)
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The machine works well with both plant-based and dairy milk (Image credit: Future)
My biggest complaint about the LatteGo 5500 Series (and it’s one that’s easily avoided) is that you can’t change the angle of the milk spout, so you have to position your cup just right to avoid milk spilling down the side. The perfect position is much further forward than you might expect, and your cup needs to be completely covering the red level indicator on the drip tray.
It helps to use quite a wide cup for your milky beverages; otherwise, you may not be able to position it just right for both the coffee dispenser and the milk spout, causing one or the other to miss.
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You can't adjust the angle of the milk spout, so it's essential to position your cup just right (Image credit: Future)
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The correct position for your cup is further forward than you might expect (Image credit: Future)
Iced coffee is one of the biggest trends in home espresso machines right now, so it’s no surprise that the top-tier LatteGo comes with plenty of options for chilled beverages. Select one and the machine will tell you how many ice cubes to add to your glass or cup, then pour coffee and milk on top.
However, it’s worth noting that the espresso used in the LatteGo 5500 Series’ iced drinks isn’t actually brewed cold. It’s hot, and relies on the ice to bring the temperature down. This means it doesn’t have the same mellow flavor profile as true cold-extracted coffee, and you may find that your drinks taste watered-down due to the melted ice. You can get around this problem by increasing the strength of the shot, but it’s something to be aware of.
The machine doesn't make cold-extracted espresso, instead dispensing hot-brewed espresso onto ice cubes to make chilled drinks (Image credit: Future)
Performance score: 4/5
Should you buy the Philips LatteGo 5500 Series?
Attribute
Notes
Score
Value
Typical price for a fully automatic espresso machine, but there are other great options available more cheaply if you shop around.
3.5/5
Design
Very compact and well suited to small households. Milk nozzle position can't be adjusted,.
4/5
Performance
Easy to use and maintain and brews excellent espresso. Hot drinks are very good, but iced options are diluted by hot espresso melting ice cubes.
4/5
Buy it if
You're brewing coffee for one (or two)
If you're only brewing in small quantities, a large bean hopper and water tank will just allow the beans and water to go stale. This compact machine is a smarter choice, and the LatteGo system helps you measure out only the milk you need.
You have a small kitchen
This is a particularly narrow machine, and you don't need to access the sides to remove the water tank, so you can push it up against a cabinet without any issues.
Don't buy it if
You want cold-brewed coffee
The LatteGo 5500 Series makes perfectly acceptable iced drinks, but the espresso is extracted using hot water and cooled by pouring it over ice. For mellow coffee extracted using cold water, take a look at my list of the top three coffee machines for cold-brew.
Philips LatteGo 5500 Series: also consider
If you're not sure that the Philips LatteGo 5500 Series is the right coffee maker for you, here are two other options for your consideration.
De'Longhi Primadonna Aromatic
If you're serious about iced coffee, the Primadonna Aromatic offers true cold extraction that creates a similar flavor profile to coffee steeped overnight in the fridge. It also has two milk carafes (one for foaming hot milk and one for cold) – and you can adjust the angle of their spouts. No puddles of milk here.
Looking for something more stylish? The KF6 is a great-looking bean-to-cup machine with a sleek, streamlined chassis and simple touch controls. It brews sublime espresso too, but it's a pricier proposition than the Philips LatteGo 5500 Series.
I used the Philips LatteGo 5500 Series with my favorite espresso blend from a local coffee roaster, bought fresh that week. I tested the water hardness using the strip supplied in the box, and fitted the water filter in the tank following the instructions provided. I used fresh water each time I began using the machine.
I tested the LatteGo system using fridge-cold whole and semi-skimmed dairy milk, as well as barista oat milk.
I tested the machine's various hot and cold drinks, using the amount of ice specified by the machine for chilled recipes.
The Hbada E3 Pro is designed with the bigger and taller community in mind. It's not as well-known a brand, but they are doing a great job filling the place of a budget-conscious chair that provides it all, while still fitting those of all sizes.
While I may not be familiar with the Hbada brand itself yet, the armrests remind me a lot of Sihoo. The legrest is something I've seen a lot in recent chairs, especially those that aim to do it all, like Hbada. The lumbar support is solid. It might not be the best office chair I've tested, but overall, the chair is quite promising.
(Image credit: Collin Probst // Future )
Hbada E3 Pro: Pricing and Availability
The Hbada E3 Pro is currently on sale for $549.99 at the time of writing, down $160 from its regular price of $709.99.
You can grab one from Hbada's website, and a few other retailers, including Amazon.com (click here) and Amazon.co.uk (click here).
The chair comes in three colorways and offers the option to set up with or without a leg-rest. I chose the lighter gray colorway, though the black and even pink look nice too (for the right person). The pink is more of a grey seat with a pink backing.
From what I can see on the website, the default option is to add the footrest, which is unique, as I usually see this as a priced add-on. However, the leg-rest is a fun feature that many are enjoying.
(Image credit: Collin Probst // Future )
Hbada E3 Pro: Unboxing & first impressions
The Hbada E3 Pro Ergonomic Office Chair was easy to assemble, nothing too crazy there. The instructions were clear, and it wasn't too hard to assemble with just one person. Right away, as we removed the chair from the box, we noticed that it felt sturdy, heavy-duty, and supportive.
After assembly, we checked out the chair, and it felt sturdy, yet not too rigid, especially with the mesh. It felt breathable, easy to get comfortable in, and enjoyable to sit in for extended periods.
There is a slight quirk with our model; the footrest moves a little too freely, but that may be an inherent characteristic of our model.
Hbada E3 Pro: Design & Build Quality
(Image credit: Collin Probst // Future )
Specs
Material: Breathable mesh seat/back, padded headrest Weight Capacity: ~300 lbs Adjustments: Recline w/ lock, seat height, headrest tilt, lumbar shift, arm rotation Footrest: Retractable, padded Colors: Black/Grey Dimensions: Designed to fit most users—but may run short for users 6’5”+
The Hbada frame is sturdy. With these chair companies that I'm unfamiliar with, I'm always wary of plopping down and relying on a chair to provide both stability and comfort. But, from the first sit until now, 114 days later, this chair hasn't given me any reason to doubt its stability. The mesh is comfortable, cool in both temperature and design, and it's supportive.
The armrests take a minute to get used to, as do any armrests that are different than what you are used to using now. I have a love-hate relationship with hyper-mobile armrests. 90% of the time, I will appreciate them, but then I'll stand up and push off of them, or I'll lean on them the wrong way, and I'll hate them for a few minutes, then forget about it again - but maybe that's just me.
The headrest adjusts more than most I have seen, allowing me to make it fit my head and neck just right, and then easily adjust it to another individual's preferences. It's the right balance of support and ease of use.
The legrest is okay in my book. It feels like an afterthought, though ironically, this is possibly the first chair I have seen that comes shipped with the chair and not as an accessory add-on. It seems like it's missing something, but I'm not sure what, as it technically works fine and is comfortable.
(Image credit: Collin Probst // Future )
Hbada E3 Pro: In use
Hbada is very keen to promote its 3-zone elastic lumbar support, the 4D bi-axial headrest, the 6D adjustable armrests, and so on. What that translates to in real-world applications is that this chair is hyper-adjustable. While that's mostly great, there are a few areas where this poses an issue.
When I go to grab this chair in the morning to sit down, I feel like just about anywhere I hold is an adjustable piece, so I grab multiple areas to move the chair around, ensuring I don't make unwanted adjustments. Outside of that, though, the adjustment features allow for customized seating, unique to your body type and preferences, and then I can go in and do the same for me, and just about anyone.
So, if you are sharing this chair, get ready to fiddle with it for a few minutes at the start of every use. If it's yours, though, take an hour to enjoy tweaking every feature until you have it dialed in just right.
The lumbar support gently caresses your midsection, love handles, lower back, whatever you want to call it. Hbada does a good job with the H3 Pro, providing comfortable support that is less intrusive and bothersome. They extend further than most chairs, wrapping more closely around your front, but for those who want more lower back support, that might be the perfect solution you've been looking for.
The headrest is also interesting; it does an excellent job of caressing my neck without pushing my head forward at all, and provides support when I need it without making me feel like my neck is excessively far forward.
Attributes
Notes
Rating
Design
Simple and clean
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Ease of use
Easy to use
⭐⭐⭐⭐
Practicality
Practical for many
⭐⭐⭐⭐
Price
Understandably priced
⭐⭐⭐⭐
Hbada E3 Pro: Final verdict
So far, this chair has exceeded my expectations. For $700+ regular price, I was hoping it would be, but it has been an excellent chair for the last 114 days. My team has loved using it; it's been a fantastic option for both taller and smaller individuals, thanks to all the adjustments, and it's held up quite nicely. If you find this one on sale, it's a great option to consider for your home office, dedicated office, or even a co-working space, as it allows for adjustable seating for multiple users.
To help make your workspace more productive, we've also tested and reviewed the best standing desks.
A user on Xiaomi's Feedback app received interesting information regarding Xiaomi's plans regarding HyperOS. Turns out, the company has officially ended the development of HyperOS 2 and is redirecting all of its resources to HyperOS 3.
It looks like Xiaomi is done with HyperOS 2 as all phones entitled to the OS update received it, so it's time to focus solely on bringing HyperOS 3, based on Android 16, on time. Additionally, a member from the developer team clarified that users should not expect any more HyperOS 2 improvement updates.
Instead, the company will focus on addressing...
The Quersus ICOS.2 is a striking gaming chair with a few unique features that help it stand out even more in the homogeneous gaming chair space.
The slender frame and sharp angles certainly look different, but despite this, the ICOS.2 remains quite formal. True to the brand’s claim, it wouldn’t look out of place in an office.
Overall build quality is quite good. The velvet upholstery on my review unit was incredibly soft, eclipsing even the best gaming chair fabrics in terms of feel. The wheel base is a highlight, although some of the plastics in other areas are less impressive, and the arm rests are prone to wobbling.
There are a few unconventional features on the ICOS.2. For a start, there’s no head pillow, but rather an integrated, adjustable headrest. I personally found this very comfortable, but its lack of give and inability to lower it to neck-level might deter some users.
Another unique aspect of the ICOS.2 is the ability to slide the seat base back and forth – an adjustment usually absent from gaming chairs. Naturally, you can also adjust seat height, and the minimum setting is pleasingly low to the ground – but the maximum will likely prove disappointingly short for tall users.
There’s also no traditional recline function on the ICOS.2. What you get instead is a tilt function that allows the backrest to lean back to a large degree, with a generous amount of resistance adjustments. There’s also a dial to lock and unlock the tilt angle in position. In my view, this tilt function does a fine job of making up for the omission of a recline system.
Integrated lumbar support is featured in the ICOS.2, too, which can be adjusted for height and depth. The range for the latter is good, and the dial is very easy to use, even while seated. The height range is more limited, and you seem to sacrifice lumbar depth the lower down it goes, which isn’t ideal.
Overall comfort is good, with plenty of padding and space on both the seat and the backrest to remain comfortable for long periods.
Assembling the ICOS.2 was a straightforward process. It came in two boxes, both neatly packaged, and included a large handle with two magnetically attachable hex keys. I could attach the seat to the backrest while both laid on the floor, which made the process easier.
At over £600 (it's unfortunately only available in the UK and EU right now), the ICOS.2 is mighty expensive, eclipsing even the biggest names in the business. And despite its standout features, I don’t think it’s better value than the Secretlab Titan Evo 2022, for instance, which is still the leading light in the gaming chair world.
(Image credit: Future)
Quersus ICOS.2 review: Price and availability
£649 (around $870 / AU$1340)
Available in UK and EU only
Expensive end of the market
The ICOS.2 costs £649 (around $870 / AU$1340) and is available now in the UK and EU, in one size only. Various colorways can be had if you opt for the fabric upholstery, but the faux leather finish is currently only available in black. You can also personalize the headrest for an additional £25. The chair comes with a five-year warranty, which is very competitive.
However, the ICOS.2 is on the more expensive end of the gaming chair spectrum, and considering the competition in this space, it's a big ask. It costs more than the Secretlab Titan Evo 2022, which we think is the best gaming chair around, and I don’t think the ICOS.2 beats it on every front.
If you’re looking for a budget option, the Corsair TC100 Relaxed is one of the best in this regard. It’s comfortable and well-designed, although some parts don’t exactly feel premium – but that’s to be expected at this price.
Quersus ICOS.2 review: Specs
Price
£649 (around $870 / AU$1340)
Dimensions
54.7 x 29.1 x 22.7in / 139 x 74 x 55cm
Max user weight
330lbs / 150kg
Min seat height
17.7in / 45cm
Seat width
20.9in / 53cm
Recline angle
140 degrees
Warranty
5 years
Material
Leatherette, fabric (velvet)
Quersus ICOS.2 review: Design and aesthetics
Unique look and features
Cheap in places
Flimsy arms
The ICOS.2 sets itself apart from other gaming chairs with its streamlined figure. The seat and backrest are much thinner than you might expect, and the various sharp angles wouldn’t look out of place on a stealth jet.
At the same time, though, the ICOS.2 is also quite understated, especially in the monochromatic finishes. Quersus pitches this chair as being suitable for both gaming and working environments, and I think it’s struck this balance well in terms of design.
The velvet finish I had in my review unit felt super soft. It’s also water-repellent and seems fitted to a high standard. However, certain aspects of the ICOS.2 feel a little cheap by comparison. Many of the plastics don’t look or feel as expensive, and the sharp rim of the backrest frame where it meets the upholstery is an oversight.
Some of the adjustment levers are a little flimsy, although thankfully, this doesn’t affect their operation. The lateral wobble of armrests is a little more concerning, although this shouldn’t present a problem under normal usage. They feel more plush and forgiving than many other armrests, which is good since you’ll be in constant contact with them.
The wheel base also seems built to a high standard, with its metal construction feeling sturdy yet light, at least compared to others. I appreciated the rounded ends of the spokes, too, as these make it somewhat less painful if you stub your heels into them.
The casters complement the base well: their gloss finish and hollowed-out centers are nice touches, and they’re also conducive to smooth glides – although there’s more grip than you might expect on carpeted surfaces, which helps to keep the chair stable.
(Image credit: Future)
Quersus ICOS.2 review: Comfort and Adjustability
Seat base depth adjustments
No recline, only tilt
Shallow height adjustments
Despite the perceived lack of padding, the seat of the ICOS.2 provided me with enough cushioning to remain comfortable in it for extended periods. It’s also wide and there are no side bolsters, which means it should accommodate a variety of body shapes and seating styles with ease.
The backrest is just as soft and comfortable, and the bolsters here open out wide, so I didn’t feel hemmed in, and there was no danger of knocking them with elbows – a pet peeve of mine with gaming chairs.
One of the unique features of the ICOS.2 is its headrest. Rather than including a separate pillow, head support is integrated within the backrest and can be adjusted for height by sliding it up and down. There’s no lever or button to hold down while doing this, though, which means it requires a fair amount of force to make these adjustments.
Although it doesn’t protrude all that much compared to more traditional gaming chair head pillows, I still found it comfortable and supportive; in fact, I was thankful for the minimal protrusion, as I often find pillows too thick.
One of the drawbacks of this system, though, is the lack of versatility. With head pillows, you can place them lower down if you wish to give your neck more support. You can also remove them altogether if you find them uncomfortable. Neither of these options is available to you here.
What you think might be the recline lever on the left side is actually used to slide the seat forwards and backwards. This is rather unique in the world of gaming chairs, and a welcome addition for those who prize good seating ergonomics.
If you want to recline in the ICOS.2, then you’ll have to use its tilt function instead, unlocked via a dial on the left. The seat only tilts back slightly, whereas the backrest tilts all the way to 140 degrees.
You can then lock the backrest into your desired position with said left dial. In effect, then, this tilt function replaces the more traditional recline function of other gaming chairs, and it does a good job of doing so – although some rocking still remains after you’ve locked the tilt mechanism in your desired position, so it’s not the most robust of mechanisms.
On the right, you’ll find the dial for adjusting the resistance of the tilt. I found this stiff to turn and awkward to reach, owing to the lack of outward protrusion. However, it does at least provide a generous range of resistance levels.
(Image credit: Future)
The ICOS.2 also features integrated lumbar support, which can be adjusted for both height and protrusion, which I’m always thankful to see, since some systems only allow for depth alterations.
A single dial is used for both adjustments, which is located on the back right-hand side of the backrest. I found it easy enough to reach and use while seated, although I can imagine some may struggle.
The dial has an ergonomic shape that helps with twists, and the subtle rubberized finish makes it easy to grip. It turns much easier than the tilt resistance dial and other lumbar dials I’ve experienced. It feels more like loosening or tightening a screw, becoming less resistant the further inward the lumbar retracts.
The range of depth adjustments it offers is good, too. And unlike other integrated lumbar systems I’ve experienced, the one on the ICOS.2 doesn’t feel as sharp; it seems to offer more cushioning than is typical.
To adjust the height of the lumbar, you pull out the dial first before turning. As with the depth adjustments, these turns feel easy to make, although the range of positions is limited. Also, when the lumbar is at its lowest position, it feels as if the depth retracts somewhat, leading to a feeling of less support.
The seat of the ICOS.2 can go lower to the ground than many other gaming chairs I’ve tried, but it might not rise enough to meet the needs of taller folk. This is disappointing considering Quersus’ claim that the ICOS.2 has a universal fit, and suggests that a larger version won’t be coming.
The arms on the ICOS.2 can be adjusted across four dimensions. Their height range should be sufficient for most to get comfortable, but the width range is quite limited; personally, I would’ve liked them to be able to move inwards more.
There are no levers or buttons you have to hold when moving the arms inwards or outwards, back and forth, or when rotating their angle. This means adjusting them requires a fair amount of force, which causes rather loud clicks as various mechanisms ratchet through their notches. As a result, it feels quite clunky to make these adjustments.
One positive aspect of the arm rests, aside from their aforementioned padding, is that they can easily be removed and replaced with other designs, varying in their shape and material, which Quersus says it’s currently in the process of creating.
Quersus ICOS.2 review: Assembly
Assembling the ICOS.2 proved to be relatively easy. The unit came in two separate boxes that were very neatly packaged, and included is a large handle and two magnetically attached hex wrenches
I managed to build it solo without trouble. You can attach the seat base to the backrest while both are resting on the floor, which alleviates one of the most laborious aspects of putting together a gaming chair.
One of the hardest parts of the build was attaching the casters to the seat base, as I found the fit quite tight. But this is a minor grievance, all things considered. The chair isn’t too heavy, either, at least when compared to other gaming chairs.
(Image credit: Future)
Should I buy the Quersus ICOS.2?
Buy it if...
You want an integrated headrest I really liked the adjustable headrest, offering enough support and adjustability to get comfortable.
You want to adjust seat depth Not many gaming chairs allow you to alter the seat depth, which ergonomists will tell you is an important aspect to consider.
Don't buy it if...
You want to save money There’s no doubt that the ICOS.2 is expensive, even by gaming chair standards, and there are better value alternatives if you don’t need the niche features
You want a traditional recline While the tilt function admirably makes up for the lack of a traditional recline, some might not like it.
Quersus ICOS.2: Also consider
If the ICOS.2 doesn't sound right for you, here are some alternatives to consider instead:
Secretlab Titan Evo 2022 Still the undisputed king of the gaming chair world, the Titan Evo 2022 does it all: it has the looks, build quality, and comfort levels to satisfy any gamer. It isn’t cheap, and certain editions carry astronomical price tags, but no gaming chair has yet been able to topple the Titan Evo 2022 from its perch.
Corsair TC100 Relaxed If you want to spend considerably less on a gaming chair, the TC100 Relaxed is one of the best in the budget category. Its build quality might not be up to the standards of its peers, but for the money it’s an admirable chair that offers sufficient levels of comfort to enjoy gaming for long periods.
I tested the ICOS.2 for a few days. I made sure to make all of its available adjustments, and tried various seating positions and styles to comprehensively assess its performance across different scenarios.
I have been gaming for decades, and during that time, I’ve used a number of gaming and office chairs, ranging from budget affairs to premium offerings. I have also reviewed a number of gaming chairs, too, ranging in their designs and price points.
Samsung announced the Exynos 2500 SoC last month, which is used in the Samsung Galaxy Z Flip7 that went on sale yesterday. The Korean brand hasn't revealed anything about the Exynos 2600 SoC yet, but thanks to Geekbench, we know what to expect from Samsung's next flagship chip.
A Samsung engineering device with model designation S5E9965 has been spotted on Geekbench with the Exynos 2600 chip. It's a deca-core CPU, similar to the Exynos 2500, but with a different arrangement. We are looking at a 1+3+6 configuration, having a single prime core clocked at 3.55 GHz, three performance cores...
Update September 19, 2025: WiiM and Audio Pro have contacted TechRadar to clarify that contrary to the initial September 4 announcement about a big Audio Pro WiiM-powered wireless speaker rollout, Audio Pro's new range of speakers aside from the C10 you're reading about here and the new A10 should no longer be described as "powered by WiiM" and instead "powered by LinkPlay", which is the parent company of WiiM. Audio Pro's new speaker range does not integrate with the WiiM ecosystem, and does not have direct WiiM support.
The release states: "For further clarity, the only Audio Pro speakers that are powered by WiiM and integrated with the WiiM Home app are the A10 and C10, WiiM Edition speakers, available exclusively via WiiM’s Amazon storefront."
The Audio Pro Addon C10 MkII is a predictably good-looking wireless speaker with plenty going for it purely in design terms (as long as you're OK with monochrome). It’s lost its handle and its Amazon Alexa voice control compared with the original model, but it’s gained a swanky new streaming platform (thanks, WiiM!) which offers an absolute stack of options where music sources and system flexibility are concerned.
Best of all, it’s a fine-sounding speaker that is able to extract an absolute stack of information from a recording and put it into convincing context. It’s punchy when it needs to be, it’s insightful, and it sounds a heck of a lot bigger than it looks. Deft control of the low frequencies, plenty of midrange articulacy and a winning way with dynamic variations all add to its sonic charm. If it was just a little more vibrant and exciting when the music demanded it, the Audio Pro Addon C10 MkII would be absolutely ideal, but it is nevertheless worthy of a place among the best wireless speakers out there.
(Image credit: Future / Simon Lucas)
Audio Pro Addon C10 MkII review: Price and release date
Cost $360 / £259 / AU$699 (approx.)
Launched in 2021
When the Audio Pro Addon C10 MkII first launched back in 2021, it cost $450 / £329 / AU$749 (approx.).
Fast-forward to today, and not only has this product become even more compelling thanks to upgrades in its streaming support and smart features, but it’s also routinely available for $360 / £259 / AU$699 (approx.). It looks like rather than becoming outdated, the C10 MkII has matured and evolved…
Audio Pro Addon C10 MkII review: Features
80 watts of power
Dual-band Wi-Fi and Bluetooth 4.2
Numerous streaming options
It’s fair to say that Bluetooth 4.2 with SBC and AAC codec compatibility is not the most inspiring specification for a wireless speaker in 2025. But what the Audio Pro Addon C10 MkII lacks in cutting-edge Bluetooth chops, it more than makes up for in its wireless network abilities.
The exemplary control app, which is now bolted to WiiM’s extremely well-regarded streaming platform, allows you to integrate a lot of music streaming services – and I mean alot: Amazon and Apple Music, Deezer and Spotify, Qobuz and Tidal, QQ Music, iHeart Radio and vTuner, and plenty more besides. The C10 MkII is compatible with Apple AirPlay 2 and Google Chromecast, and the app allows the speaker to be half of a stereo pair or part of a multi-room system without any fuss whatsoever. It’s an extremely flexible device.
Once aboard, digital audio information is processed by a 24bit/96kHz DAC and then is breathed on by 80 watts of Class D amplification. A pair of 19mm tweeters get 20 watts of power each, and in between them there’s a 133mm midrange driver that receives the other 40 watts. This bigger driver is supported by a rear-facing vertical bass reflex port.
Features score: 4.5 / 5
(Image credit: Future / Simon Lucas)
Audio Pro Addon C10 MkII review: Sound quality
(Image credit: Future / Simon Lucas)
Open, detailed and well-controlled sound
Great tonal balance and frequency response
Could sound a little more exciting
Yes, by the standards for $350-ish wireless speakers the Audio Pro Addon C10 MkII is quite large. But be assured the sound it creates is plenty larger than the cabinet it’s coming from.
The sort of scale the Audio Pro can invest in a FLAC file of Hookworms’ Negative Space is straightforwardly impressive. It can open the recording out and offer a proper sense of space at the same time, even though the point-source of sound is always obvious. The amount of dynamic headroom that’s available allows the speaker to track the ever-increasing intensity of the recording convincingly, and the control of the lowest frequencies is such that rhythmic expression is confident and naturalistic, too.
And as well as being controlled with real authority, the bottom end – like the rest of the frequency range – is loaded with detail and variation. The C10 MkII is no thumper – it hits good and hard at the low end, but is textured and tonally varied. The same is true at the opposite end, where treble sounds are bright and substantial, with plenty of information available regarding tone, attack and decay. Through the midrange, the Audio Pro is about as explicit and as eloquent as any device of its type and price I’ve heard. It communicates in absolute torrents.
The tonal balance is nicely judged – it’s not absolutely neutral, but the tiny suggestion of warmth (especially towards the bottom end) is almost certainly sensible in the context of the circumstances the C10 MkII will probably be used in. The evenness of the frequency response is splendid, too, giving measured and appropriate weighting to every part of the tonal range, without underplaying or overstating any particular area.
Really, about the only area of mild concern where the sound of this speaker is concerned has little to do with the specifics of performance – it’s more about attitude. For all of its undoubted dynamic potency and ability to paint a full and nicely detailed picture, the Audio Pro is not the most demonstrative listen.
It sounds quite like it looks: sophisticated, understated and in unarguable good taste. This, where audio quality is concerned, can be considered shorthand for ‘slight lack of excitement’. No one is interested in a feral loudspeaker, of course, but at those moments when a recording demands vigor and attack, I get the strong impression the C10 MkII thinks this kind of behavior is a little beneath it.
Sound quality score: 4.5 / 5
Audio Pro Addon C10 MkII review: Design
(Image credit: Future / Simon Lucas)
165 x 320 x 185mm (HxWxD)
Black, white or gray matte finishes
Magnetically attached grille
The Audio Pro Addon C10 MkII is, by the standards of a ‘rectangular box’ wireless speaker, very nicely finished and actually quite elegant in an understated sort of way.
This is just as well – given the 165 x 320 x 185mm (HxWxD) dimensions, it could have very easily ended up looking a bit bulky. As it is, though, the standard of construction and finish, along with the unapologetically monotone options of black, gray or white matte colours, make for a very harmonious look. The magnetically attached grille helps with the clean look, too.
It’s a fairly sizeable proposition on the average desk, though, and the lack of a handle makes transporting its 4.3kg weight rather less easy than it might be. I can’t deny I’ve used the bass reflex port as a handle, but I can’t imagine Audio Pro would recommend it as an option…
Design score: 5 / 5
Audio Pro Addon C10 MkII review: Usability and setup
(Image credit: Future / Simon Lucas)
Great control app, extensive physical controls
No voice control
Can easily be part of a multi-room set-up
Unlike the previous generation of C10, there’s no Amazon Alexa voice control here – there’s no voice control at all, in fact. You may count this as a negative, you may not, but there’s no denying that your other control options are very nicely realized indeed.
That WiiM-powered control app, as already mentioned, is stable, logical and slick in operation. As well as the ability to integrate a generous number of music streaming services and internet radio providers, it’s also where you can form a stereo pair or establish a multi-room system. There’s bass and treble adjustment, the ability to establish as many as half a dozen presets, input selection, the ability to check for firmware updates and various timer and alarm-clock functions.
The top surface of the cabinet features a selection of controls, too, embedded in a tactile steel plate. Power, volume, playback control and Bluetooth pairing are all available here, and access to the six presets you’ve defined in the control app are also available. There’s also a little LED giving confirmation of the selected input.
Usability and setup score: 4.5 / 5
Audio Pro Addon C10 MkII review: Value
(Image credit: Future / Simon Lucas)
Excellent standard of finish
Versatile streaming platform and app
Extras add up to value for money
Consider the standard of build and finish, and then consider the out-and-out sound quality. Take into account the great new WiiM-powered streaming platform and all its possibilities, from forming a true stereo pair to easily creating a multi-room system.
And then look around at what this kind of money can buy you from alternative brands. Yes, the Audio Pro Addon C10 MkII is very good value for money indeed.
Value score: 4.5 / 5
Should you buy the Audio Pro Addon C10 MkII?
Audio Pro Addon C10 MkII score card
Attributes
Notes
Rating
Features
Wi-Fi connectivity, Bluetooth (albeit 4.2 with SBC and AAC codec) and WiiM’s excellent streaming platform.
4.5 / 5
Sound quality
Open, detailed and well-controlled, but could be a little more exciting.
4.5 / 5
Design
Three possible matte finishes, sizeable with carry handle removed, magnetically attached grille.
5 / 5
Usability and setup
Great control app, extensive physical controls, can be part of a multi-room set-up.
4.5 / 5
Value
Not cheap, but extras provide added value to make the expense more than worth it.
4.5 / 5
Buy it if...
You admire a bit of Scandi design ‘Elegance’ is in the eye of the beholder, of course, but there’s no denying the Audio Pro is a bit of a looker.
You enjoy slick operability Co-opting WiiM’s streaming platform has turned the C10 MkII into a very versatile and easy-to-use speaker indeed.
You know the devil is in the details By the standards of their price-comparable rivals, the Audio Pro is able to resolve a heck of a lot of fine detail.
Don't buy it if...
You’re after sonic fireworks There’s plenty to recommend the sound of the C10 MkII, but ‘excitement’ is not an area of expertise.
You think life should be Technicolor One person’s ‘understated’ is another’s ‘boring’, and if you don’t like black, or white, or gray, then you’re going to be struggling here.
Audio Pro Addon C10 MkII: Also consider
JBL Authentics 200 If you fancy a bit of retro charm rather than Scandi cool, the JBL Authentics 200 will be just the thing. It's got that JBL sound (punchy, driving and forceful), that JBL look (fully mid-70s hi-fi heyday) and is nothing if not fully featured. See our full JBL Authentics 200 review for more.
Apple HomePod 2 If you’re already deep in the iOS ecosystem, the Apple HomePod 2 is a great-sounding option, although it lacks some features most alternatives consider ‘essential’. Here's our full Apple HomePod 2 review to add to the pile.
How I tested the Audio Pro Addon C10 MkII
Because the C10 MkII is mains-powered rather than battery-powered, I listened to it exclusively in my home. It’s a bit big for a desktop speaker, but nevertheless I gave it a go – it was much more at home on a shelf in the lounge, though.
I listened to music from Tidal and Qobuz via the excellent control app, of many types and quite a few different file sizes. And I listened both critically and with the Audio Pro functioning simply as a ‘background’ device – and there were never less than thoroughly enjoyable.
