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This cordless upright vacuum blends power and portability – it’s perfect for small homes
9:00 am | November 8, 2025
Author: admin | Category: Computers Gadgets Home Small Appliances Vacuums | Tags: , , | Comments: Off

Shark Freestyle Max: two-minute review

Product info

This model has slightly different names and product codes in different territories:

US: Freestyle Max SV2002
UK: Freestyle Pro / Freestyle Max SV2000UK
AU: Freestyle Max SV2000NV

For this review, I tested the US version. The UK version has also been tested by the TechRadar homes team. The only notable discrepancy between the different versions is that the US version has headlamps, and the UK and AU versions do not.

The Shark Freestyle Max is not your average upright vacuum. It's far lighter and more streamlined, and it's cordless too. After its launch in October 2025, I tested it out to see how it compares to both the best upright vacuums on the market and the best cordless vacuums.

In terms of suction power, I was very impressed. I used this vacuum in my 1600-square-foot home and it did a great job at cleaning fine materials and large debris from both hard floors and carpet-like rugs. It picked up everything in a single pass and got right up close to the edges of rooms, too.

The design is very basic but effective – you use your foot to press down on a big button on the floorhead to turn the machine on and off and switch modes. Charging happens via a dock, but this is about as compact as you can imagine – smaller than even the footprint of the vacuum itself. It's also incredibly affordable – pricing is lower than some of the best cheap vacuums on the market, but the suction power is up there with far pricier stick vacuums.

There are a couple of significant potential drawbacks. Firstly: battery life. The battery doesn't last longer than 20 minutes in hard floor mode and less than 12 minutes in carpet mode. That wasn't enough for me to clean my house in a single go without stopping to recharge (at least recharge is relatively quick at three hours). Secondly: the Freestyle Max is for use on floors only. There are no detail tools, and nor is there a flexible hose that enables you to use the vacuum to clean furniture, stairs, or up high.

If you can handle those drawbacks and are looking for a simple vacuum that packs the power of an upright but without the weight and bulk, the Freestyle Max is a great choice. Keep reading to get deeper insight into its pros and cons.

Shark Freestyle Pro cordless upright vacuum standing in front of its dock

(Image credit: Future)

Shark Freestyle Max review: price & availability

  • List price: $199.99 / £149 / AU$249.99
  • Launched: October 2025
  • Available: US, UK, AU

The Shark Freestyle Max launched in October 2025, and at list price in the US it costs $199.99, though it's often on sale – at time of writing, it was down to $149.99.

There's an almost-identical model in the UK, minus the headlamps, which costs £149.99 but was discounted to £99 at time of writing. Shark doesn't seem to have decided whether to call it the Freestyle Pro or Freestyle Max, so look at the product code (SV2000UK) to make sure you're getting the right one. The AU model doesn't have headlamps either, and costs AU$249.99 at list price.

It's a budget buy on the wider market, and with the typical discount, it's well priced, considering the strong suction power and the shorter battery life.

Value for money score: 4.5 out of 5

  • Value for money score: 4.5 out of 5

Shark Freestyle Max specs

Product code:

SV2002 (US) / SV2000UK (UK) / SV2000NV (AU)

Weight:

6.6 lbs / 3 kg

Bin size:

0.7qt / 0.7L

Max runtime:

21 mins

Charge time:

3 hrs 20

Size (H x W x L):

44.9 x 10.2 x 9.8in / 114 x 26 x 25cm

Modes:

Hard floor mode, Carpet mode

Cleaning path:

10.3in / 26.2cm

Headlamps:

Yes (US) / No (UK and AU)

Shark Freestyle Max review: design

  • Extremely lightweight for an upright, and cordless
  • Generous dust cup, foot-press button operation, and two suction modes
  • Basic but effective in design

Shark set out with the intent to create a more compact and lightweight upright vacuum, and it did just that with the Shark Freestyle Max. Aesthetics wise, the vacuum is white and gray with a modern sleek design.

The vacuum is very lightweight, clocking in 6.6 lbs / 3kg, which would be fairly light for a stick vacuum, let alone an upright. Unlike other vacuums, the button to change between the two suction modes is found on top of the vacuum head.

Tester pressing down the On button on the Shark Freestyle Pro cordless upright vacuum with her foot

(Image credit: Future)

To shift between the two modes, you press the button with your foot, and a blue or green light indicates which mode you're in. Look extremely closely and you'll see an icon to indicate that the more powerful 'green' should be used on carpet, whereas the lower-powered 'blue' is for hard flooring.

Tester removing the bin from the Shark Freestyle Pro cordless upright vacuum

(Image credit: Future)

The vacuum locks in place so it can stand up on its own. Although the vacuum can't lean back 180 degrees, it comes very close. If I had to guess, I'd say the vacuum leans to about 160 degrees, which is not quite as nimble as a stick vacuum, but still very decent. The US version also has a headlight on the front of the vacuum head to help users see in dim spaces. This isn't included on the UK or Australian versions.

The 0.7-quart / 0.7L dust cup can be removed from the vacuum pod and emptied with a lid release button. A debris screen and filter are located inside the dustbin. There are no additional accessories, nor a flexible tube that would allow you to break down the vacuum and use it to clean windowsills or in the corners of ceilings, à la something like the Shark Stratos Upright.

Dock for the Shark Freestyle Pro cordless upright vacuum

(Image credit: Future)

Rather unusually, there's a dock for charging. This is smaller than even the footprint of the vacuum, but a simple plug-in setup would probably be more convenient.

Setup took only a few minutes. I just had to click the wand into the vacuum pod, and the vacuum pod onto the floor nozzle. From there, I charged the vacuum, and it was ready to go.

  • Design score: 3.5 out of 5

Shark Freestyle Max review: performance

  • Very powerful hard floor and carpet suction, with excellent edge cleaning
  • Picks up fine materials in a single pass
  • Maneuverable for an upright but not as nimble as a stick vacuum

From the get-go, I was impressed with the Shark Freestyle Max Cordless Upright Vacuum, especially in terms of suction power. It may be a simple vacuum without smart features or app integration, but it did a great job cleaning fine material – like flour – and larger items – like crumbs and leaves. In fact, no matter if I used the bare floor or the carpet mode, it only took a single pass on rugs and hard floors for the vacuum to pick up all material, be it dirt or hair.

I tested both the front edge and edge cleaning of the vacuum and was very happy with the results. It cleans right to the edge. Unfortunately, if I tried to vacuum in reverse, larger debris like coffee grinds got stuck behind the wheels. It was better to do a forward pass over a mess for quick and efficient cleaning.

I've tested many vacuums over the years, and the Shark Freestyle Max Cordless Upright Vacuum feels a lot more powerful than others. With some vacuums, I need to use a Max or a Turbo mode to pick up large debris. The Freestyle Max isn't outfitted with those types of modes, but thankfully, you don't need them. The suction power of this vacuum outshone many cordless stick vacuums that I've tested in the past.

While not as powerful as bulkier, corded uprights, it's right up there with the priciest cordless stick vacuums when it comes to power. TechRadar's Home Editor Ruth tested the UK version side-by-side with the Dyson Gen5detect and found the cleaning power comparable with that model – all the more impressive considering that vacuum costs five times the price.

Tester using the Shark Freestyle Max cordless upright vacuum in her home

(Image credit: Future)

The compromise here is that because of the higher suction power, the battery on this vacuum doesn't last very long. I discuss more about the battery in the battery section, but for reference, I wasn't able to clean my entire house switching between bare floor and carpet modes.

I love that the Shark Freestyle Max Cordless Upright Vacuum is outfitted with a headlight, as it made it easier to see dust and dirt in low lit areas. If only the vacuum paused when locked upright. In terms of sound, the hard floor mode has a dB rating of 79. I measured an 83 dB rating during carpet mode. In my opinion, the vacuum isn't any louder than most.

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Tester using the Shark Freestyle Max cordless upright vacuum to clear flour from a hard floor

(Image credit: Future)
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Tester using the Shark Freestyle Max cordless upright vacuum to clear dry tea from a hard floor

(Image credit: Future)
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Tester using the Shark Freestyle Max cordless upright vacuum to clear flour from a carpet rug

(Image credit: Future)

The only other thing I should note is that the vacuum felt a little stiff in terms of maneuverability. Turning the vacuum left or right was not as smooth as I would have liked. While it's nimbler than your average upright vacuum, it's not as maneuverable as most stick vacuums I've used. At least it's lightweight, the vacuum head fits in relatively tight spaces, and it can lean back to about 160 degrees, making it easy to reach under my bed and low furniture.

Tester using the Shark Freestyle Max cordless upright vacuum to clean under a cabinet

(Image credit: Future)

Maintenance doesn't take long to complete. When the dust cup was full, I removed it from the vacuum pod and placed it over a trash can. Then I pressed the 'lid release' catch and the dust and dirt emptied. I was able to keep my hands clean. The debris screen and the filter – both located in the dust cup – need to be occasionally removed and washed with water, before air drying for 24 hours.

  • Performance score: 4 out of 5

Shark Freestyle Max review: battery life

  • 11 mins in Carpet mode; 21 mins in Hard floor mode
  • Takes about 3 hours and 20 mins for the battery to fully recharge
  • Battery not removable or replaceable

The battery life of the Shark Freestyle Max Cordless Upright Vacuum depends on which mode is being used. In higher-powered carpet mode, the battery lasted almost 11 and a half minutes, and in hard floor mode, 21 minutes.

Since I have both hard floors and rugs in my 1,600-square-foot house, I tested how long the battery lasted when switching between modes. I was able to clean my bare floors in 15 minutes. Then I switched to carpet mode to vacuum my rugs. The battery lasted only three more minutes, which was not enough time to fully vacuum one of my large rugs. The battery took about three hours and 20 minutes to fully charge. I let it charge for an hour, which gave it enough juice to finish vacuuming my rugs.

The Shark Freestyle Max Cordless Upright Vacuum's battery life is far shorter than most cordless stick vacuums – many models can last up to a full hour in their lowest-powered mode these days, and it's rare to see a maximum runtime shorter than 40 minutes. This model won't fit the bill for those with bigger homes or lots of carpet. However, I see it as a strong choice for apartments, small homes, or anyone who just like having a vacuum to do short bursts of cleaning.

One final black mark against Shark here is that the battery isn't removable or swappable, as is the case with most good modern cordless vacuums. That means once the batteries wears out, you'll have to throw the whole machine away.

  • Battery life score: 2 out of 5

Should you buy the Shark Freestyle Max?

Attribute

Notes

Rating

Value

Very affordably priced, with performance up there with far more expensive cordless models. The compromise is short battery.

4.5 / 5

Design

Very basic in terms of features, but perfectly functional and well-built. Cordless uprights are very rare, so it fills that niche.

3.5 / 5

Performance

Very lightweight and maneuverable for an upright. Picks up fine and large materials in a single pass and offers impeccable edge cleaning.

4 / 5

Battery life

The battery doesn't last longer than 20 minutes, which is very short.

2 / 5

Buy it if...

You want a powerful vacuum for quick cleanups

The suction power of this vacuum is powerful, so much so that you can pick up small and large debris in one forward pass. It's not as sucky as the bulkiest corded uprights, but packs a real punch for a cordless.

You're on a budget

This vacuum has an extremely wallet-friendly price tag, and it's often discounted further. For the cleaning power on offer, it's a steal.

You have more limited mobility

Upright vacuums are typically heavy and bulky, but the Shark Freestyle Max Cordless Upright Vacuum is far more compact, lighter and easier to maneuver, but it still stands up on its own, making it a strong choice for those with limited mobility.

Don't buy it if...

You have a medium / large house or lots of carpet

The limited battery life – which is even shorter in the higher-powered mode – makes this vacuum a poor choice for larger homes or those with lots of carpet, unless you're only planning to use it for a room or two at a time.

You want to clean stairs or furniture

There's no configuration that lets you clean anything that's not flat floor. Most uprights have a flexible hose and detail tools for cleaning above the ground, but that's not included here.

You can handle a cord or a heavier upright

If you can deal with the extra weight and the inconvenience of a cord, there are uprights that deliver even more oomph, can be used for detail cleaning, and won't run out of juice mid-clean.

How I tested the Shark Freestyle Max

I tested the Shark Freestyle Max Cordless Upright Vacuum for a week in my 1,600-square-foot home, using it to vacuum my hardwood and laminate floors and two large rugs. Everything from how well it suctioned debris to the length of battery life and ease of movement was tested and considered when writing this review.

The UK version was also tested on-team in the TechRadar offices, where it was used on hard floor, mid-pile carpet and deep-pile carpet, and the suction power was compared to that of a premium Dyson stick vacuum.

Read more about how we test vacuum cleaners

  • First reviewed November 2025
After one and a half playthroughs, Tales of Xillia Remastered has proven that this old RPG was worthy of an upgrade
7:00 am |
Author: admin | Category: Computers Gadgets Gaming | Tags: | Comments: Off

The Tales series has been going strong for almost 30 years. From the humble Tales of Phantasia to the recent Tales of Arise, the Japanese role-playing game franchise has shown no signs of slowing down.

Review info

Platform reviewed: PS5
Available on: PS5, Xbox Series X and Series S, PC, Nintendo Switch 2
Release date: October 31, 2025

In celebration of the anniversary, Bandai Namco has released a few remasters, one of which is Tales of Xillia Remastered. The 2013 original has now been reborn for the next generation of consoles and gamers, and I can safely say it’s well-deserved of it and more.

On the road (Again)

The story of Tales of Xillia follows a group of ragtag heroes on the lam after discovering a secret government weapon.

There’s a lot of depth and nuance laced in the narrative, as simple as it may seem at times. Its tackling of themes like life, neglect, and family rings true throughout. It's not too in your face either, weaving it all in like a fine tapestry for you to unravel as the story progresses. Plus, the action and drama are done quite well, delivering some great scenes and thoughtful moments.

If this is your first time with Xillia, there’s much to enjoy in it. For starters, the cast of colorful characters is among the series’ best. Each is highly memorable and lays the groundwork for future titles. From the shifty Alvin to the budding Leia, you instantly grow attached to them and by the game’s end, don’t want to leave them behind. Also, more games should have cool elders like Rowen. It shouldn't always just be teens hogging the spotlight!

Tales of Xillia Remastered can be played from two perspectives: the kind doctor Jude Mathis or the god-like deity Milla Maxwell. It’s the same story in each one, just told from a different viewpoint. Some plot points are learned earlier in one and later in another, and even holes in one story are filled in the next. Even if most of the gameplay is the same in each, it does boost the replayability a lot.

Screenshot from JRPG Tales of Xillia Remastered

(Image credit: Bandai Namco)

An old dog has learned some new tricks

In terms of updates, there’s a lot of work being done for the remaster. For one thing, it feels extremely approachable compared to other entries.

For example, guide markers for maps help steer players in the right direction, which is extremely helpful for certain maps. An autosave feature has also been added, which helps whenever you are unable to get to a save point or quicksave. All the additions are convenient and helpful, making Remastered the best version to play of Tales of Xillia.

Perhaps the biggest upgrade is the graphics. Seeing as Tales of Xillia is from 2013, it got a noticeable facelift in the remaster. Characters and settings look a lot nicer, and the improved framerate lends way to smoother gameplay. At times, however, the visuals can feel a bit lackluster, with some of the animations being a touch stiff.

Still, for a remaster, it does translate quite well and plays great on the PlayStation 5. Though some of the audio is a bit glitchy, with character's voices drowned out by mixing issues.

Best Bit

Tales of Xillia Remastered

(Image credit: Bandai Namco)

The colorful cast of characters and abundant customization radiate throughout Tales of Xillia Remastered. Plus, with improved graphics and great accessibility, it makes for the most approachable Tales game yet.

If you played Tales of Arise, you may notice the battle system is quite different, but it’s one worth staying with. While the LMBS system does take some getting used to, it feels fluid and fun.

I was a bit intimidated, given I’m used to Arise’s open-air combat, but it does grow on you quickly. Despite an option to walk around freely, I barely used it, as I started to find the groove of the system.

Furthermore, the link system, which connects you with another member on the battlefield, is a lot of fun to use. Crafting combos on the fly and hitting a satisfying move on an enemy never got old.

Screenshot from JRPG Tales of Xillia Remastered

(Image credit: Bandai Namco)

Nostalgic yet new

One of the best parts of Tales of Xillia Remastered, for me at least, is the vast amount of customization at your disposal. While it is in the original, the Lillium Orb is a fantastic system for players to use. It lets you personalize your moves, stats, and skills to your desire. The same goes for your teammates, as you can outfit them however you like. Want your Milla to be magic-focused with Alvin dealing critical? It’s all there and something I hope future Tales titles return to.

For many, this is likely the first time they will play Tales of Xillia, and for others, it’s a return trip. The ones who will benefit the most from the remaster are newcomers, as it gives them a whole new playground to explore. Older fans will get to see the world they know brought back to life for new consoles. Luckily, there’s a lot to love from both perspectives, whether it’s the intuitive new features or the upgraded graphics.

Overall, Tales of Xillia Remastered set out to do one thing and did it right. A classic has been reborn for a new era, and even more fans get to meet Jude, Milla, and the gang and go on the run with them. The improved graphics, while a touch shoddy at times, bring life back to the world and give way to the best version of the title on the market. With tons of replayability, customization, and charm, you can’t go wrong with it.

Screenshot from JRPG Tales of Xillia Remastered

(Image credit: Bandai Namco)

Should you play Tales of Xillia Remastered?

Play it if...

You love RPGS with a lovable cast of characters to spend time with
In an RPG the game is as good as the companions you spend it with. Luckily, Tales of Xillia has a great group to follow. Each new member adds a key element in battle and nobody feels out of place.

You enjoy intricate battle systems that allow for customizable builds
The Lillium Orb is a fantastic way to customize and personalize your playstyle. You can make any of your party the way you’d like them to be, like a unstoppable tank or a magic powerhouse. It’s an element that I hope makes a return in future titles, even if Arise moved away from it.

You liked any of the other Tales of games and want a new experience
For those who played Arise and Berseria, this is worth getting into. It’s not as long as those titles, but you’ll find it does all things a Tales game should: great gameplay, fun characters, and a gripping story.

Don't play it if...

You are looking for proper current-gen RPG experience
Unfortunately, while it does look better than the original, Tales of Xillia Remastered is still a bit rough around the edges due to its age. Compared to other remasters it doesn’t have too many updated textures. However, it does feel noticeably smoother thanks to the improved framerate.

Accessibility features

In terms of accessibility, there are a few different options to adjust. The biggest is difficulty, it ranges from easy to unknown, the hardest one. Map adjustments, like the newly added markers, are available, as is turning on/off encounters in the open world. You can also change between English and Japanese audio at any time. Button mapping is also customizable and easy to use.

There isn’t too much on display, though, and it may have benefited from adding colorblind modes. Still, what’s been added definitely helps make Tales of Xillia Remastered a more approachable title for newcomers and fans alike.

Screenshot from JRPG Tales of Xillia Remastered

(Image credit: Bandai Namco)

How I reviewed Tales of Xillia Remastered

I played Tales of Xillia Remastered for around 30 hours, finishing the main story with some side content. My first playthrough was Jude with some time in New Game+ as Milla Maxwell.

There is multiplayer available, but I did not try it for the review. I played the game on a base PS5 with the DualSense wireless controller and Razer BlackShark V2 wired gaming headset, all on a Roku 4K TV. If you played other Tales titles like Symphonia and Vesperia, you’ll find a lot of similarities here.

First reviewed November 2025

This phenomenal smart lamp is giving serious aurora borealis vibes, and I can’t get enough of it
12:00 am |
Author: admin | Category: Computers Gadgets Home Smart Home Smart Lights | Comments: Off

Govee Uplighter Floor Lamp review

The Govee Uplighter Floor Lamp is a feature-packed smart light that combines practical lighting with vivid and eye-catching visual effects through preset scenes and custom settings.

Since its launch in June 2025, the Govee Uplighter Floor Lamp has been available to buy direct from Govee, as well as Amazon and other retailers. It has a list price of $179.99 / £179.99, which is great value for money considering how convenient and versatile it is.

Better still, at the time of writing, Govee is offering a discount of $30 / £30, taking the cost down to just $149.99 / £149.99, which is a fantastic price considering this is one of the best smart lights I’ve tested. There’s a similar deal at Amazon, lowering the cost to £149.99 in the UK, but it's just $20 off in the US, so it’s worth purchasing from Govee if you’re buying from across the pond.

The process of assembling the Uplighter was straightforward, although I suggest having someone assist with attaching the lamp section to the pole if you have limited shoulder mobility. Alternatively, if you have the floorspace, you can do what I did and prop up the pole with boxes so you can build the lamp on its side, but it’s much more of a faff than assembling it standing up.

While the Uplighter is pretty lanky at 66.9 inches / 170cm, it’s reassuringly stable thanks to its weighted base. It has a simple aesthetic when it’s not in use. The majority of its outer surfaces are plastic apart from the aluminium stand, which appears to have a powder-coated finish.

I can’t help but find the lampshade somewhat uninspiring when not lit up, but that’s simply because I’m obsessed with how pretty it is when the colors are flowing. Nonetheless, it has a nice finish, featuring a combination of clear and smoky black translucent plastics separated by a black band with a matte finish.

The downlight of the Govee Uplighter is casting light onto a bed.

(Image credit: Cesci Angell)

A little word of warning: the clear dome of the lampshade is easy to scuff. I accidentally scuffed mine when it gently knocked against the sloped section of my living room ceiling as I was testing the lamp’s stability. It’s not noticeable when the sidelamp is turned on, but I still recommend taking extra care when shifting the Uplighter about.

The Govee Uplighter Floor Lamp had me hooked in seconds with the bright and colorful effects that were projected from its ripple light. The color-shifting sidelight is a satisfying element too, especially for someone as addicted to color as I am. The downlighter proved satisfyingly practical, too, especially with its easy-to-adjust color temperature and brightness settings.

Govee states this lamp can emit up to 1000lm of brightness, and I can confirm that the downlighter makes for convenient task lighting. The uplighter’s brightness means that the ripple effects are beautifully vivid, even during the daytime, and it looks utterly fantastic when ramped up to 100 percent at night.

Image 1 of 4

The Govee Uplighter is projecting multicolored ripples of light onto the ceiling.

(Image credit: Cesci Angell)
Image 2 of 4

The Govee Uplighter is projecting ripples of blue and pink onto the ceiling.

(Image credit: Cesci Angell)
Image 3 of 4

The Govee Uplighter is projecting multicolored ripples of light onto the ceiling.

(Image credit: Cesci Angell)
Image 4 of 4

The Govee Uplighter is projecting multicolored ripples of light onto the ceiling.

(Image credit: Cesci Angell)

At the time of writing, only two of the lamp’s elements can be used simultaneously, though I’ve heard murmurings that we may be able to enable all three in the future. This limitation isn’t really an issue, and I’m sure some may consider using all three lights as overkill; however, I’d love it if I didn’t have to sacrifice one of the colorful elements when using the downlighter.

In terms of onboard controls, there are two buttons located on the front of the pole, one for power and the other for switching between scenes and color temperatures. They work just fine, but I primarily use the Govee Home app or my Echo Dot (5th Gen) to control my Uplighter.

Image 1 of 2

Three screenshots show some of the features within the Govee Home app.

(Image credit: Cesci Angell)
Image 2 of 2

A close-up of the two buttons on the pole of the Govee Uplighter Floor Lamp.

(Image credit: Cesci Angell)

The Govee Home app is the best app for smart lights I’ve used to date – and I’ve tested a bunch of them. After taking a few moments to sync with the Uplighter, the app gave me access to a range of device settings, including preset features, smart home assistant, and Matter syncing.

More excitingly, there’s a boatload of preset scenes to explore, from multi-colored aurora effects to floating mists from the ripple light, to themed side and downlighter combos. There’s plenty of opportunity to finetune the effects, too, with DIY and AI creation sections, along with adjustable speed settings on many of the existing scenes.

There’s also a super convenient auto-run feature, which is great to have, especially if you don’t own a smart home assistant – it allows you to assign different scenes and settings to specific times of the day.

Image 1 of 3

The Govee Uplighter Floor Lamp is projecting an aurora borealis effect onto a bedroom ceiling.

(Image credit: Cesci Angell)
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The Govee Uplighter Floor Lamp is projecting an aurora borealis effect onto a bedroom ceiling.

(Image credit: Cesci Angell)
Image 3 of 3

The Govee Uplighter Floor Lamp is projecting an aurora borealis effect onto a bedroom ceiling.

(Image credit: Cesci Angell)

In summary, this is a fantastic, multi-functional lamp that makes an eye-catching feature, while also providing adjustable and convenient task lighting. So, if you love the sound of the Govee Uplighter Floor Lamp, I highly recommend purchasing one to experience its mesmerizing and colorful displays for yourself.

If you enjoy getting lost in captivating visuals to help you unwind, but you’re looking for something a little smaller, then I suggest checking out the Govee Table Lamp 2, which offers a huge range of stunning preset scenes, as well as a bunch of customizable settings. Better yet, if you happen to be looking for a smart speaker as well, the Govee Table Lamp 2 Pro comes with built-in JBL sound, and its larger size means there’s more space for all those calming colors to swirl about.

Govee Uplighter Floor Lamp review: Price and specs

Price

$179.99 / £179.99

Model

H60B0

Colors

RGBWW, RGBIC, WW

Lumens

1000lm

Color temperature

2700K-6500K

Dimensions

12.2 x 12.2 x 66.9 inches / 310 x 310 x 170cm

Connectivity

2.4GHz Wi-Fi, Bluetooth

App

Yes

Control methods

App, voice control, pushbutton controls

Additional features

3-in-1 lighting effects, dynamic ripple effect

Should I buy the Govee Uplighter Floor Lamp?

Buy it if...

If you love colorful lighting
Whether you’re a color addict like me, or you love unwinding by losing yourself in colorful, sensory-calming visuals, this uplighter will be right up your street.

You want a lamp that’s pretty and practical
With the downlighter’s adjustable temperature and brightness, Govee has struck the perfect balance between attractive lighting effects and practical task lighting with this floor lamp.

Don't buy it if...

You want a subtle floor lamp
While it works well as a task lamp, and the color-changing shade makes for a great feature, the standout feature of this uplighter is its vivid aurora-like projections.

You want a lamp that looks pretty when it’s off
I’ll be honest, I’m scraping the bottom of the barrel a bit here, as I don’t have many negative points on the Uplighter. However, if you’re not into simple, modern lamps, then you might not appreciate the look of this floor lamp when it’s not in action.

Govee Uplighter Floor Lamp review: Also consider

Nanoleaf Smart Multicolor Floor Lamp
If you’d prefer to wash your walls with color instead, and would rather be kinder to your budget, then this colorful column is the perfect choice. This easy-to-assemble wall washer was considered pleasingly sturdy by our reviewer, and its slim design makes it a more discreet option. Like the uplighter, there’s a range of scenes and DIY settings to explore, and it’s easy to control via its app and voice control via your smart home system. If you’d like to learn more, check out our full Nanoleaf Smart Multicolor Floor Lamp review.

How I tested the Govee Uplighter Floor Lamp

  • I used the Govee Uplighter Floor Lamp regularly over a few weeks
  • I tested the different features and customizable settings
  • I observed the brightness and visibility of the scenes in light and dark environments

I used the Govee Uplighter Floor Lamp to light up my bedroom and living room ceilings with colorful loveliness for a few weeks. I also used the downlighter as a gentle source of light in the evening, as well as task lighting whenever required.

I explored all of the Uplighter’s features, trying out the different preset scenes, creating my own, and experimenting with various lamp combinations.

I used the app regularly for customization, but I mostly used voice control to power it on and off, via my Amazon Echo Dot.

I used the Govee Uplighter Floor Lamp in my living room most days, and moved it to my bedroom so that I could enjoy the calming ripple effect lighting while lying in bed. I used it on sunny days and at night, so that I could assess how visible the effects were with various levels of ambient light.

Design.com logo maker review
8:32 pm | November 7, 2025
Author: admin | Category: Computers Gadgets Pro Software & Services | Tags: | Comments: Off

Ever fancied having a graphic design team at your fingertips to help your business with branding, marketing and reach, but can’t afford to hire more people? How about a customizable AI service instead? This is what the amazingly named “design.com" aims to offer (incredible that URL was still available).

Design.com: Pricing & plans

Design.com interface during our review

(Image credit: Design.com // Future)
  • Barely any free templates, but at least you can try all the tools before choosing a subscription plan

Although you can explore all of what Design.com has to offer, and experiment with all of its tools to your heart’s content, you’ll find this service is primarily a paid one. Sure, you’ll spot the odd free design here and there, discernible by a ‘free’ moniker top left of a template’s thumbnail, but sadly, those are few and far between.

When it comes to choosing a paid tier to suit your needs, I found the choices to be somewhat confusing, as the plans on offer differ depending on the services you’re using.

For instance, working in the logo section will bring up ‘Premium Logo Pack’ or ‘Premium Logo Pack + Website’, ranging from €3 to €6 per month, billed annually (paying on a month by month basis is considerably more expensive: from €9 to €14).

However, if you come from the YouTube Banner, Instagram Post or T-Shirt sections, say, you only have one option: ‘Premium Account’, for €5 a month billed annually, or €9 on a month by month basis, yet both ‘Premium Account’ and ‘Premium Logo Pack’ allow you to edit posts, logos and more… Why the discrepancy, in tier name and cost, depending on which service you start from?

I must note that over the days I spent experimenting with this service, these options changed: there used to be three different tiers coming from the logo service, and two from the others, so it might be possible that they will have changed again once you try the service out for yourself.

Design.com: Categories & templates

Design.com interface during our review

(Image credit: Design.com // Future)
  • A wealth of different categories, with hundreds of templates for each. It’s very easy to navigate through them all.

Design.com certainly is feature packed. It’s a logo maker, sure, but it also offers you the ability to create business cards, posters, flyers, banners for YouTube and LinkedIn, Facebook and Instagram posts and stories, email signatures, entire websites, T-shirts, and more.

The platform's focus is on allowing AI to do the bulk of the work for you, with customizations available further down the line if they’re needed. The aim here is to offer you a design so good, you don’t need to do anything to it, except insert your business's info.

The way it works is incredibly simple: at the top of the page is a menu-bar, broken down by category, with options within each category being quite vast. If this feels too clinical for you, scroll down the main page instead to browse through a list of the most common services, with big friendly images and description of what to expect.

Remember: the vast majority of the templates will have to be paid for. Only a handful are available for free, and as you’d expect, they won’t be the flashiest, nicest looking ones. Still, free is free. You’re also able to explore and customize all templates, even the premium ones, as you only get to the paywall when you’ve finalized your design, giving you a good opportunity to try out every feature.

If you’re on the lookout for a free logo and don’t fancy scrolling through the long list hoping to find the handful of free templates available, click here to see the free designs and not the premium ones.

Design.com: Choices

Design.com interface during our review

(Image credit: Design.com // Future)
  • So many choices increases the odds you’ll find the perfect AI creation for you. You’re given a few basic customization options, with the more in-depth alterations saved for another part of the service

Looking through Design.com’s vast choices can be overwhelming, although the developers have gone to great lengths to keep the results focused on what you’re looking for.

To make this work, once you’ve selected the type of service you’re after (be it a poster, website, post, business card, logo, etc), you’ll need to enter a list of keywords so the website’s AI can get to work. There are exceptions to this, like the Business Card or Logo sections, for instance, which request your business name instead.

If you have a logo already designed, you can upload it at the same time, and it’ll be integrated into the results.

Once you click on the big blue ‘Start Now’ button, you’ll be instantly given dozens of variations based on your business name and/or keywords. Actually scratch that: that’s just the first page: scroll down to the bottom and you’ll find hundreds of additional pages waiting for you, which means you have thousands of templates to choose from, which you can narrow down with a selection of filters, additional keywords and searches.

Click on the one you like best to select it and be taken to the next steps, which include changing the template’s default colours, altering the text (or let AI write something for you), and finally select a layout from a choice of six, if the original one wasn’t to your liking.

If this is as much editing as you have the time or inclination for, click on Download to claim your prize… or so I might’ve hoped. I’ve already covered that most templates aren’t free, but if you’re working on one that is, you'll have to jump through a lot of hoops to get it. I lost count of how many pages offering me special (paid) deals I had to skip through in order to finally be able to download my file.

Design.com: Customization & export

Design.com interface during our review

(Image credit: Design.com // Future)
  • The level of customization is high, giving you full control over your creation - although that’s solely reserved for paying customers. As for exporting your work, the number of options on offer is broad.

Keeping it simple is great and a very useful timesaver, but if you have specific ideas not reflected by the AI results, you’ll be pleased to learn these designs are fully customisable, although be aware this feature is for paying customers only.

You have access to the full layout, being able to move and resize and even rotate any object present on the template. You can even bring in new shapes and clip art should you want to.

Altering an item’s colour is just a click away, you have full control over text boxes, from style, to format, to font. It’s all fun and easy to use. If you’re familiar with Canva, you’ll feel right at home here.

Whether you customized your layout or not, now’s the time to download it. The choices you have are refreshingly vast, and this also applies to the free templates you might elect to use.

Being able to download the full design is a given, but you also have the option of exporting a version with a transparent background, or to just get the icon, solely grab the text, or turn the whole creation into greyscale. You even have a choice of format, from JPG, PNG, SVG, EPS or PDF.

This level of choice is most welcome as it can allow people to edit the design further elsewhere, should they want to.

Should I buy Design.com?

Buy it if...

You’re looking for a service that uses AI to generate designs for your business at a fraction of what it would cost to maintain a creative team. There’s a handful of free templates, as well as reasonable subscription rates to gain access to all templates and full customization control.

Don't buy it if...

You want total creative control over your designs without AI input. And the free options feel pretty meagre compared to the more lavish premium templates.

For more options, we've tested and reviewed the best logo makers and the best free logo makers.

Monopods have come a long way, and the Sirui SVM-145P takes this simple camera support to new heights
4:00 pm |
Author: admin | Category: Camera Accessories Cameras Computers Gadgets | Comments: Off

Sirui SVM-145P: two-minute review

Monopods are useful camera supports in a range of situations, and many tripods come with a detachable leg that can be converted into a monopod, a system that works extremely well. With this in mind, you might wonder why you'd need to buy a dedicated monopod. In a nutshell, the answer is that monopods like the Sirui SVM-145P bring something much more versatile and robust to the table.

Monopods are essentially a single tripod leg that can be used to provide stability, enabling you to shoot at slower shutter speeds than you could handheld. Plus, the SVM-145P has three metal feet to provide additional stability, making it perfect for video capture when you only need a simple camera support rather than the greater stability of a slower-to-use full-size video tripod.

As the name suggests, this is a monopod with a maximum height of 145cm, or 57.1 inches, while the P signifies ‘pedal’. The pedal is used to quickly release the lock at the bottom of the monopod to allow for 20 degrees of tilt and 360 degrees of rotation, providing the movement you need when the three metal feet are being used for stability.

An interesting feature is that there’s a friction control, which allows you to control how loose or restricted these two movements are. This is useful when shooting video because it allows for smoother pans and tilts.

You can, of course, attach a fluid tripod head for video and use this for panning rather than the monopod itself. My only criticism of the friction control is that the dial at the top of the feet section is itself stiff to turn. Stiff is good to avoid movements caused by accidental knocks, but it’s arguably too stiff.

Image 1 of 5

Sirui SVM-145P monopod

(Image credit: James Abbott)
Image 2 of 5

Sirui SVM-145P monopod

(Image credit: James Abbott)
Image 3 of 5

Sirui SVM-145P monopod

(Image credit: James Abbott)
Image 4 of 5

Sirui SVM-145P monopod

(Image credit: James Abbott)
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Sirui SVM-145P monopod

(Image credit: James Abbott)

You can, of course, keep the feet folded up, in which configuration the SVM-145P performs like a standard monopod with a rubber foot at the bottom that can also be rotated to reveal a spike. The feet can also be removed from the monopod, which reduces size and weight when you require only basic functionality.

Moving on to the minimum height of the SVM-145P, the minimum in monopod mode is 77cm / 30.3 inches, which isn’t particularly low. The SVM-145P, however, has another trick up its sleeve: quick-release feet and the mounting plate where a tripod head can be attached.

These can then be put together to create a desktop / mini tripod, which is roughly 20cm / 7.87 inches. The mounting plate also features a 1/4-inch or 3/8-inch self-adaptive thread to allow tripod heads with either thread size to be attached.

The desktop tripod's minimum height isn’t listed in the specs, only the minimum heights of the basic monopod and monopod-plus-feet configuration. Adding a tripod head to the feet with the base attached will inevitably increase the minimum height, but it remains low to the ground, or not too high when positioned on a desk or table. There’s no denying that it’s a useful and interesting feature for a monopod.

Operation of the SVM-145P is quick and easy, with a simple twist lock at the top for extending and retracting the monopod. Plus, there’s the quick-release mounting plate for switching between monopod and desktop modes.

The aim of this design is speed of operation, and it certainly achieves this. The ability to move the SVM-145P quickly and to easily set it up in seconds also makes it suitable for fast-paced shooting situations. It’s undoubtedly much quicker to set up than a tripod, for instance.

Image 1 of 4

Sirui SVM-145P monopod

(Image credit: James Abbott)
Image 2 of 4

Sirui SVM-145P monopod

(Image credit: James Abbott)
Image 3 of 4

Sirui SVM-145P monopod

(Image credit: James Abbott)
Image 4 of 4

Sirui SVM-145P monopod

(Image credit: James Abbott)

As far as monopods go, this one is pretty chunky, with the thickest tube having a 36mm / 1.42-inch diameter. The weight of the SVM-145P without a head is 1.49kg / 3.3lbs, so once a head is attached, it’s going to weigh as much as many travel tripods.

When you remove the metal feet, the overall weight is reduced by 720g / 1.6lbs. The maximum payload of the monopod is 10kg / 22lbs, which will include the tripod head if you attach one, but leaves plenty of room for many camera and lens combinations.

The SVM-145P doesn’t come with a head included. This frees you to choose your own head, as well as providing the ability to use different heads depending on what and how you’re shooting. This is standard in the world of mid-to-higher-end tripods and monopods, but more and more travel tripods come with a ball head included, which does reduce overall cost.

My biggest issues with the SVM-145P are that it weighs as much as some travel tripods that have multi-functionality, including monopod and desktop tripod modes, and the cost. The build quality and functionality are fantastic for a monopod, but it also costs the same as many travel tripods, which also come with a head included.

Sirui SVM-145P: key specs

Head

Purchased separately

Leg sections

Three

Height

770mm – 1450mm / 30.3 inches – 57.1 inches

Weight

1.53kg / 3.4lbs

Max Payload

10kg / 22.04lbs

Material

Carbon fiber

Sirui SVM-145P: Price and availability

The Sirui SVM-145P is available now and costs $274 / £239, which puts it in a similar price range to many travel tripods, and the SVM-145P doesn’t even include a tripod head. You can use the monopod without a head, which is ideal when using it to support larger telephoto lenses, but for general photo and video capture a tripod head does improve handling and control.

With this in mind, the SVM-145P is quite expensive. On the other hand, it’s much more feature-packed than a basic monopod or one that’s just a converted tripod leg. If you’re looking for a high-quality monopod and will get plenty of use from it, this could be a fantastic option to consider. If, however, you only need to use a monopod occasionally, you might be better off with a cheaper alternative.

There are also several other monopods available in the SVM range, with different heights, with and without the foot pedal that allows you to switch between a locked monopod and pan and tilt movements when the feet are in use. This means you can choose the height and functionality that works best for you, but as the model that loosely sits in the middle, the SVM-145P is likely to be one of the more popular options in the range.

Sirui SVM-145P: Also consider

Peak Design Pro Tripod

There are three Peak Design Pro Tripod models available, and this excellent travel tripod doesn't come cheap. Its design allows for a compact folded size, while optional ‘mods’ allow you to increase video functionality if required.

Read our Peak Design Pro Tripod review

Heipi 3-in-1 Travel Tripod

The Heipi 3-in-1 Travel Tripod is a small and lightweight travel tripod featuring an innovative design, and the ability to support multiple camera types, including smartphones. The tripod also incorporates a mini tripod into the overall design, adding to its usefulness when traveling.

Read our Heipi 3-in-1 Travel Tripod review

Should I buy the Sirui SVM-145P?

Sirui SVM-145P monopod

(Image credit: James Abbott)

Buy it if...

You need speed

This monopod can be operated quickly and provides the support you need in a range of shooting situations.

You need portability

If you don’t need the full support of a tripod, monopods are often more compact, although this one is as heavy as travel tripods.

Don't buy it if...

You need greater support

If you need full camera support for capturing long exposures, for example, you’ll need a tripod rather than a monopod.

You’re on a budget

If you’re on a budget, you can buy cheaper and more basic monopods. Plus, many tripods have a convertible leg for monopod use.

How I tested the Sirui SVM-145P

  • I tested it in all configurations
  • I used it with different camera and lens combinations
  • I tested it with and without a tripod head

I tested the Sirui SVM-145P for more than a week in situations when a monopod is the most appropriate solution, using it to capture both a range of photographic subjects and video. I also tested it alongside a travel tripod, so that I could directly compare the pros and cons of each system.

First reviewed October 2025

High price of a vinyl collection putting you off? Follow my lead and get this new one-stop-shop turntable
1:30 am |
Author: admin | Category: Audio Computers Gadgets Hi-Fi Turntables | Tags: , | Comments: Off

Majority Folio: Two-minute review

Given that vinyl records often feel like they belong in the Smithsonian, actually using them for music can seem like a scary proposition, and what doesn't help is how fiddly and delicate some of the best turntables can seem. Newbies to the vinyl game can find many reasons to stay away, but I'm here to offer one good reason to come over: the Majority Folio.

This record player – for amplification and speaker are both onboard, squirrelled away into the base – is here to downplay those reasons, and make listening to your collection (relatively) simple.

This is the joint-third turntable from British audio company Majority, following the Majority Moto 2.0 and releasing simultaneously with the pricier Stylo.

Like its predecessor, the Folio is an inexpensive turntable, and it also totes a built-in speaker, which means you don't need to buy a separate one (or indeed any phono stage or pre/power amplifiers) to hear your music. These facts alone make the device really easy to buy for people scared to take the plunge.

But beyond that it's easy to set up and use, and won't be scary for new users to experiment with. And once you decide to flesh out your hi-fi setup, the Majority Folio's support for many outputs and inputs means that unlike many cheap vinyl players, it actually can remain a central part of your kit and won't need to be replaced any time soon.

You may want to upgrade things though, because the Folio's speaker doesn't actually sound that great; it's fine as a starting-off point, or for people who aren't already too used to the fantastic audio that high-end kit can put out, but it retains all the issues of its predecessor in that it lacks a solid, weighty and impactful low-end and doesn't provide quality audio overall.

Another gripe I have with the Folio is that a few design choices show a lack of precision. The dust cover doesn't fit perfectly, and the turntable's wooden surface showed up bumps and scratches really easy. These didn't affect playback, but it's still not ideal.

One novel feature I need to bring up in the introduction is that you can plug a USB stick into the Folio and rip/record your vinyl record onto it. This can be great for digitizing your record collection, but you could also use it to create your own mix-tapes (you can split the recording and break it up by track, changing vinyl while you do) or re-record your favorites at a shifted pitch... for some reason. It's a feature with admittedly limited appeal, but I can see it being a game-changer for some music creators.

Majority Folio review: Price and release date

  • Announced on April 12, 2025
  • Sells for £169.95 (roughly $220, AU$340)
  • No US or AUS availability

The Majority Folio was announced on Record Store Day, which was April 12, 2025. It went on sale shortly afterward.

You can buy the turntable for £169.95 (roughly $220 / AU$340), although it’s only available in certain regions, including the UK. Majority’s turntables don’t tend to go on sale in the US, and while they do in Australia, the Folio isn’t currently offered in the region.

That price puts the Folio as one of the more affordable turntables on the market, a great budget buy for people who don’t have the big bucks to invest in a fancy home hi-fi system but want something solid to play vinyl.

The Majority Folio on a bronze table with plants in the background.

(Image credit: Future)

Majority Folio review: Specs

Dimensions

41.2 x 32.3 x 14.2cm

Motor

Belt drive

Platter

Die-cast metal

Phono preamp

Yes

USB

Input & recording

Bluetooth

5.3

Speeds

33, 45RPM

Stylus

AT3600L

Extras

45RPM adapter, RCA cable, rubber mat, replacement belt

The Majority Folio on a bronze table with plants in the background.

(Image credit: Future)

Majority Folio review: Features

  • Easy to set-up and use
  • Range of connection options
  • USB recording feature

The Majority Folio seems designed as a plug-and-play dream; thanks to having its own speaker you don’t need to fuss over connecting other devices or extras, and simply plugging it into a power point is your first and last act to get it running. Well, you’ve got to add the record too, and it’s not an automatic turntable so you'll need to place the needle yourself; the record begins to spin as soon as you lift the arm.

Despite having its own speaker, and therefore being less reliant on external speakers to work, the Majority Folio offers quite a few connection options. You can pair to nearby Bluetooth speakers or wireless headphones with Bluetooth 5.3 (to transmit your vinyl wirelessly for playback, thus bypassing the Folio's inbuilt speaker), play via an AUX cord, output music from a USB stick or plug in other devices with RCA, and so the Folio can stand alone or be the nexus of a hi-fi set-up. Most of these options let you output the vinyl music, but also use the device’s speaker for other inputs.

In somewhat of a novelty, you can plug a USB stick into the Folio and record your vinyl recording onto it. It’s a neat way of digitizing your music, especially with the ability to split a recording (ie, break it up by song), although the quality isn’t exactly stellar. If you change the playback speed of a record, this is reflected in your recording, but tweaking the volume isn't.

  • Features score: 4/5

The Majority Folio on a bronze table with plants in the background.

(Image credit: Future)

Majority Folio review: Sound quality

  • AT3600L cartridge in play
  • Build-in speaker lacks quality
  • Output sounds a lot better

At the end of the arm is an AT3600L Moving Magnetic Cartridge, a piece of kit Majority has used before. And there’s no shame in that, especially not when the first two letters stand for Audio-Technica; this is a fine-tuned piece of kit. We've seen it grace plenty of other budget options and it provides fun audio, if lacking some high-fidelity flair of higher-end options.

One of the unique selling points of the Majority Folio is that it comes with its own speaker as part of the package; if you’re at the first step of your home audio journey and don’t have a hi-fi set-up, you can use the Folio out of the box…

… although I’d recommend against it, if you can avoid it. Music from the built-in speaker sounds a bit tinny, lacking deep bass or crisp treble, and that's not just true of phono playback but for Bluetooth playing too. I couldn’t help but feel that lots of the depth, detail and nuance that the vinyl format provided, was lost when played through the main speaker. As I write this, I’m listening to Bowie’s Space Oddity, and it’s hard to make out much of the song besides the vocals, strings and cymbals.

Thankfully, as I’ve mentioned, the Folio has a range of connectivity options, and I’m pleased to report that music sounds better from headphones or other speakers. The low end has a lot more weight (even accounting for the toning of other devices), high-end is crisper and there’s a full-bodied midrange which adds to the sense of detail on a song. It’s not going to wow audiophiles who’ve tested top-end equipment, but I’d question how many such buyers have made it this far into the review anyway!

There’s nothing strictly wrong with the built-in speaker if you’re at the beginning of your home hi-fi journey, but it’s not something I’d rely on in the long run.

It’s worth noting that, according to the website and user manual, the Folio doesn’t support high-quality or low latency Bluetooth codecs. So I’d recommend buying wired speakers (see TechRadar's guide to the best stereo speakers here) if you want to appreciate your music to the best standards.

The Majority Folio on a bronze table with plants in the background.

(Image credit: Future)
  • Sound quality score: 3.5/5

Majority Folio review: Design

  • Chunky, thanks to built-in speaker
  • Lots of dials, ports, switches
  • Easily gains knicks

As you can probably expect from a turntable with a speaker built in, the Majority Folio is a little bit bigger than some rivals on the market, and it adds this heft in the height department. It’s 14.2cm tall, 41.2cm wide and 32.3cm length-wise. And if we’re going through dimensions, it weighs 3.7kg.

The device has a classy look, with a nice wooden finish, although this material quickly showed some marks and splintering on my review unit. An S-shaped tonearm is light and nimble, though looks a little too much like a Mechano set towards the needle, which blocked my sight of the needle from certain angles (and I'm bad at placing it at the best of times). The party is at the back though with an easily-manipulated counterweight and RPM toggle hidden away from the plate.

The table begins to spin automatically, as soon as you lift the needle, but the arm cradle wasn’t totally reliable at holding the limb in place; a few times I accidentally bumped the arm and the record began to spin of its own accord. A cradle with a slight edge would fix this problem.

Elsewhere on the body you’re getting an RPM adapter plonked to the side, and then on the right edge a headphone jack as well as dials for the volume, pitch and input method. It’s a little more cluttered than some other turntables I’ve seen, but I prefer ease of use with your many functions, toggles and switches in plain view.

That’s only the tip of the iceberg when it comes to the Majority Folio’s buttons and dials. On the right edge there’s a USB slot as well as buttons for recording, splitting and Bluetooth pairing, while on the back there’s the range of connection inputs we’ve already discussed. Perhaps one of the benefits of a big body, is lots of room for ports and buttons.

Like most (but not all) alternatives, the Folio has a dust cover. It does its job but it’s a little wobbly, often not sitting straight on the turntable, and it quickly got quite scuffed up during my testing.

The Majority Folio on a bronze table with plants in the background.

(Image credit: Future)
  • Design score: 4/5

Majority Folio review: Value

Based on the price, specs and feature set, the Majority is a great entry-level turntable for people at the beginning of their hi-fi journey.

It’s a purchase comparable to those guitar starter-packs you can buy, which get you a budget amp, carry case and cables alongside a cheapie six-string; none of the kit is stellar, but you’re getting a nice easy package to get you started. The further you get into your hi-fi journey, the more you can augment your setup with extra speakers.

There are a few turntables on the market that are cheaper than the Majority, but most don’t have the speaker built in, giving this an easy value win.

  • Value score: 4.5/5

The Majority Folio on a bronze table with plants in the background.

(Image credit: Future)

Should I buy the Majority Folio?

Majority Folio score card

Attributes

Notes

Rating

Features

A range of connection options, and easy to use.

4/5

Sound quality

Built-in speaker isn't perfect, but there's a fun sound in general.

3.5/5

Design

Its big size facilitates its many features; it shows its wear readily though.

4/5

Value

It's great value for what you're getting (and what you don't need to get).

4.5/5

Buy it if…

You're on a limited budget
If you buy the Folio, you don't need to buy extra speakers or players if you don't want. One purchase and you're done.

You want to digitize your record collection
The USB recording feature is a neat way to transfer your old vinyl records into a more digital form, or record your own mix tape.

You need something easy to use
While it's not an automatic turntable, the Majority Folio is simple to use and doesn't need endless tweaking or tinkering.

Don’t buy it if…

You've got limited shelf space
Thanks to its speaker, the Majority Folio is a pretty bulky piece of kit which takes up a fair amount of space on a shelf.

You need top-quality audio
People who want to get every drop of audio goodness from their records will want to spend a lot more on their kit.

Majority Folio review: Also consider

Majority Folio

Audio-Technica AT-LP70XBT

House of Marley Revolution

Dimensions

412 x 323 x 142mm

110 x 400 x 330mm

112 x 389 x 328mm

Motor

Belt drive

Belt drive

Belt drive

Platter

Die-cast metal

Aluminium

Plastic

Phono preamp

Yes

Yes

Yes

USB

Input & recording

No

No

Bluetooth

5.3

5.2

5.3

Speeds

33 1/3, 45RPM

33 1/3, 45RPM

33 1/3, 45, 78RPM

Cartridge

AT3600L

AT-VMN95C

AT3600L

Extras

Dust cover, rubber mat, 45 adapter, RCA cable.

Dust cover, felt mat, 45 adapter, 1m RCA cable

Dust cover, felt mat, 45 adapter

Audio-Technica AT-LP70XBT
We rate the AT-LP70XBT as our favorite budget turntable, though it costs a little more than the Folio. It's easy to use, sounds decent and doesn't break the bank, making it a solid beginner turntable.
Read our Audio-Technica AT-LP70XBT review here.

House of Marley Revolution
Another highly-rated beginner turntable, which undercuts the Folio, comes from HoM. It has the same cartridge as the Folio so you're getting a similar audio profile.
Read our House of Marley Revolution review here.

How I tested the Majority Folio

The Majority Folio on a bronze table with plants in the background.

(Image credit: Future)
  • Tested for three weeks
  • Inputs include vinyl records, Bluetooth and USB
  • Outputs include built-in speaker and wired headphones and speakers

I used the Majority Folio for three weeks in order to write this review, and through the whole process it was set up in my living room (which is also my dining room and kitchen; it's not a big apartment).

I primarily listened to music from my large vinyl record library, though also used the speaker's Bluetooth playback function and also listened to recordings I'd made with the USB recording function.

For most of the testing period, I listened through the build-in speaker, but for additional listening I plugged in some over-ear headphones and some wireless speakers to get a sense for the sound.

  • First reviewed November 2025
Battlefield REDSEC is a by-the-numbers battle royale that’s lacking a sense of character, but there’s no question that Battlefield fits the genre perfectly
8:25 pm | November 6, 2025
Author: admin | Category: Computers Gadgets Gaming | Tags: , | Comments: Off

Battlefield REDSEC arrives seven years after the battle royale genre began in earnest, boasting a free-to-play structure, a whole lot of destruction, and of course, a Battle Pass. It launched as a surprise free-to-play update to Battlefield 6, but it can also be downloaded separately.

Review info

Platform reviewed: PS5 Pro
Available on: PC, PS5, Xbox Series X and Series S
Release date: October 28, 2025

I imagine you now have a clear picture in your head as to what Battlefield REDSEC looks like, what mechanics it uses to push players further and further into the map, and can practically see the various icons for currencies both paid for and free.

While Battlefield REDSEC does have a few interesting design choices, I’d almost guarantee that you’ve pretty much played this one before. You'll no doubt recognize key mechanics lifted from several of the best FPS games to come out in recent years, with very little that jumps out as new.

Late for departure

A helicopter flies into battle

(Image credit: EA)

The highlights then. Battlefield is a perfect fit for battle royale design, and its destructible environments are easily the best I've ever seen in the genre.

The class system borrows from the main game and offers genuinely enticing and decidedly distinct ways to play. There’s tanks too - yes, tanks in a battle royale game. They’re brilliant, but also balanced in a way that makes them extremely difficult to manage, especially if your enemies have brought in an Engineer.

Even the gunplay is tight and enjoyable, and really gives Warzone a run for its money. All in all, I’d recommend Battlefield REDSEC if you’re a fan of shooters, and if you want a more streamlined experience when compared to the bloated monster that main competitor Warzone has become over the years.

The main issue with REDSEC is timing. Had it launched 3 years ago, I reckon it would’ve been a rather exciting proposition.

Instead, it joins Apex Legends, Warzone, Fortnite, and other battle royale games, all jostling for your attention. It’s not just those games either, as 2025 has been a veritable goldmine of innovative multiplayer experiences like Peak, R.E.P.O, and most recently: Arc Raiders. With the arrival of the latter in particular, I’ve found it very difficult to justify sinking hour after hour in Battlefield REDSEC when there’s another game that I’d desperately rather be playing.

Military medley

In my mind, PUBG: Battlegrounds kicked off the ongoing fascination with closing circles and last survivor-victories all the way back in 2018. Battlefield REDSEC then, has quite a bit to borrow from, and borrow it does, rather masterfully in fact. There’s the map design of Warzone, the squad-formation drop-ins from Apex, and the Battle Pass structure perfected by Fortnite. All of this is spliced together into quite a neat package, making Battlefield REDSEC a sort of best-of compilation of games you’ve probably played over the last seven years.

There’s very little fat to trim here, and if you’re looking for a battle royale game that feels the way you remember Warzone feeling in 2020, you’ve found it. Inventories are clean and simple, armor plates aren’t stored in some extra menu or bag that you have to manage on the fly, and matches are all action, all the time.

Soldiers in combat gear run and take cover from an incoming wall of flames

(Image credit: EA)

Burn this city

My favorite quirk of Battlefield REDSEC is the closing circle of flame. Rather than slowly doing damage over time, the flames will instantly kill you if it catches you, and you’ll even take burn damage just by being anywhere near the closing wall.

This does two things: it prevents players from using the closing circle as a hiding spot, while encouraging players to move inwards at all times. That first effect is a very welcome one indeed, and anyone who’s played Warzone over the years can attest to how frustrating it is to get to the final circle and learn that the opposing team is using gas masks and health stims to stay alive in the gas.

Best bit

soldiers drive across green beams in a Golf Cart as explosions ring out in the distance

(Image credit: EA)

Don’t sleep on Gauntlet mode, which pits teams against each other in a variety of different mini-modes set on the battle royale map. For those that don’t want to invest in Battlefield 6, it’s a great sampler of what to expect from the more structured gameplay sessions of the base game. It’s the perfect way to learn the gunplay, as well.

The second effect can be felt dramatically throughout matches, as you and your team frequently have to change position and make quick decisions before the flames get too close. Given the rapidity with which the deadly flaming circle contracts, vehicles become vital means for repositioning.

Gatling gun-mounted buggies feel weighty and fun to drive, while helicopters are hilariously complicated beasts that require careful practice, and a whole lot of bravery to pilot. Add in the tanks and you’ve got a winning formula, as you send vehicles careening through buildings, charging across debris-ridden plains, and soaring across a sky filled to the brim with missiles.

“Iconic DNA”

EA has been hammering on about Battlefield’s “Iconic DNA” in the marketing for REDSEC. Presumably, this refers to the destructability and class-based warfare that I’ve certainly enjoyed while playing the main game’s multiplayer modes. In REDSEC, however, I’m left wanting a bit more of a signature style, something to differentiate it from the countless others vying for my attention.

Part of this identity crisis stems back to the overall design mentality of this new era of Battlefield. After the floundering performance of Battlefield 2042, EA has stripped everything back to the bone, choosing to appease Battlefield 3 and 4 purists rather than risk anything remotely new.

This has been an overcorrection, and while I do enjoy both Battlefield 6 and REDSEC, there’s very little that’s truly memorable about either. This all translates over to REDSEC’s Battle Pass, which is woefully dull, filled with generic military skins and green-brown color swaps of boilerplate character designs.

I’m genuinely left wondering why anybody would spend real money on any of it, and while I understand the need for EA to avoid the wacky and often-maligned cosmetics of Call of Duty, there’s got to be a middle ground.

REDSEC

(Image credit: EA)

On a mission

There’s a mission system in Battlefield REDSEC which gives players varied objectives to complete in addition to the main goal of looting and shooting. These range from bomb defusals to tasks that have you aligning satellite beacons. They’re almost always worth doing, and often serve as sneaky ways to bring rival teams closer together. It’s all little more than Contracts in Warzone, or missions in Fortnite, but I do like the implementation better in Battlefield REDSEC.

Similarly, the way loot is labelled and upgraded is sleek and intuitive. Orange crates give you loot that’s specific to your class, while weapon kits can be used to upgrade an aspect of your held weapon.

Custom weapon caches drop from the skies periodically, leading to yet more opportunities for skirmishes between squads. Battlefield REDSEC really excels in pacing, and I’ve found the majority of matches to be action-packed and just bit-sized enough to encourage me to jump back in.

Soldiers battle it out on speedboats, firing from mountain turrets while driving at high speed.

(Image credit: EA)

In terms of incentives, however, REDSEC is once again held back by the trappings of the battle royale genre. There’s really no reward for winning, par for the course at this point, but other games like Fortnite have managed to use victory crowns and exclusive Gliders as a reason for players to want to win again and again. There’s an XP bonus that ties nicely into the shared progression of guns across REDSEC and Battlefield 6, but given the lacklustre nature of the Battle Pass rewards, I find very little reason to keep playing night after night.

By positioning Battlefield REDSREC as a separate, free to play, title, EA has at least made the barrier to entry fairly low. I’d recommend it for those that love battle royale games, as it’s solid enough, and often fun enough, to warrant getting a full squad together to give it a go.

Unfortunately, there’s only Duos and Quads right now, so be aware that you will need to play with randoms often, and there’s really no way to play solo, which is disappointing. For those that’ve gotten their fill from years of Warzone, Fortnite and Apex Legends, however, there’s very little that differentiates REDSEC from titles you’ve already played. Perhaps the genre has started to run its course

Should I play Battlefield REDSEC?

A soldier runs into battle holding a largeweapons case

(Image credit: EA)

Play it if...

You live and breathe battle royale games
While Battlefield REDSEC doesn’t bring anything new to the genre per se, it is a great culmination of elements borrowed from some of the best that we’ve seen so far. The destructible environments are well worth checking out, at a minimum.

You have a full squad
REDSEC only offers Duos and Quads, and partnering with randoms is a mixed bag at present. The Ping system isn’t perfect, and it can be difficult to coordinate without a mic. Get a full team of pals together to really experience the best of what a Battlefield-branded battle royale has to offer.

You’re enjoying Battlefield 6
There’s shared progression between Battlefield 6 and REDSEC, and the battle royale mode is likely already installed on your hardware. There’s challenges to complete in REDSEC, and the classes line up nicely with those in the main game. You can bring in your custom weapons as well, granted you find a cache that spits them out.

Don't play it if...

You’re looking for something new
I think it’s fair to say that the battle royale genre has lost much of its appeal over the last couple of years. REDSEC is very much by the numbers, and you won’t really find anything in here that you didn’t get in Warzone over five years ago.

You want to progress and unlock new rewards
The battle pass and rewards system is pretty lacking in REDSEC at the moment. If you don’t really want to dig into its various loadout options and grind out attachments, there’s very little to incentivize you to play regularly.View Deal

Accessibility features

Battlefield REDSEC has some decent accessibility settings like Menu Narration, customizable color elements for the HUD, and Tinnitus-related audio sliders. There’s also color profiles for Deuteranopia, Tritanopia, and Protanopia color blindness options. Custom color blind settings can be applied too.

Subtitles can be increased in size, and tweaked to alter outline, background opacity, text opacity, and more. Camera effects like motion blur and HUD motion have sliders, and you can dial down camera shake and turn off camera sprint camera bobbing.

How I reviewed Battlefield REDSEC

I’ve played around 15 hours of Battlefield REDSEC, predominantly in Quads mode. I’ve also spent around an hour of that time in Gauntlet mode. All of this was on PS5 Pro in Auto (Performance) mode, using a DualSense Edge wireless controller with back buttons assigned to jump and interact.

While playing Battlefield REDSEC, I used an LG Ultragear 27GR93U 4K monitor, as well as a Steel Series Arctis Nova 7 Gen 2 headset. For one play session, I also tested the game on PlayStation Portal, and found Gauntlet mode to work well, and it looked great on the handheld screen.

First reviewed November 2025

I tested Nikon’s updated 24-70mm f/2.8 pro zoom for a month, and it’s a 5-star lens by every metric
6:30 pm |
Author: admin | Category: Camera Lenses Cameras Computers Gadgets | Comments: Off

Nikon Z 24-70mm f/2.8 S II: one-minute review

Nikon's Z-mount mirrorless cameras system has come of age – seven years since its first Z-mount cameras, we now have its first second-generation lens, the Z 24-70mm f/2.8 S II, which is designed to replace the original Z 24-70mm f/2.8 S.

I have a particular personal interest in this new lens, because I've relied on the original for personal and professional work for several years, and I'm still completely happy with it today.

So the question I had going into this review was not whether this lens would be any good – I knew it was going to be a five-star performer. Rather, it's whether it gives users of the original like me enough of a reason to upgrade, and whether it's worth the extra outlay.

I'll cut to the chase and say I don't think it is... depending on the price difference. I've reviewed enough second-generation Sony lenses where I've seen genuine improvement – new lenses that are optically sharper, plus much smaller and lighter. Nikon's new 24-70mm boasts similar improvements, but for me Nikon hasn't quite gone far enough with the upgrades, given the big difference in price at launch and the already excellent quality of the original.

Nikon Z 24-70mm f/2.8 S II lens in user's hand, with autumnal lake background

(Image credit: Tim Coleman)

Still, the Nikon Z 24-70mm f/2.8 S II is a five-star lens by every metric. Its optical and build quality are top drawer, with edge-to-edge pin sharpness at any focal length, impressive control over lens distortion, and smooth rendering of bokeh.

Build quality impresses, too. Its weather-resistant design betters the original in one key way – zoom is internal, which is one less potential weak spot for dust and water to enter the lens internals.

The original lens is in fact slightly smaller in length, but it extends past the new lens as you zoom up to 70mm. For me, the internal zoom, snappier autofocus, lighter weight and moderately sharper detail are the biggest upgrades, but not enough of a reason to spend so much extra now, rather than waiting for potential price cuts or until the original is phased out.

Price considerations aside, you'll struggle to find a better-quality professional lens, with a versatile 24-70mm zoom and consistent f/2.8 aperture across that range – this is a five-star performer all the way, and key new addition to the Nikon Z lens range.

Nikon Z 24-70mm f/2.8 S II: price and availability

  • Priced at $2,799 / £2,599 / AU$4,599
  • Lens hood included
  • Announced in August 2025

Nikon Z 24-70mm f/2.8 S II lens mounted to a tripod with autumnal lake background

(Image credit: Tim Coleman)

Nikon's Nikkor Z 24-70mm f/2.8 S II lens was announced in August 2025, costing $2,799 / £2,599 / AU$4,599, lens hood included. At the time of writing the lens has already got its first price cuts in the US and UK where it's now $2,599 / £2,299.

At the time of the mark II's launch, the original 24-70mm lens was already on sale for $2,099 / £1,999, while you can also buy that lens secondhand from trustworthy retailers for much, much less, with prices depending on the condition.

Personally, I'd buy the original secondhand in excellent condition for around 30% less than the mark II new at its current sale price. However, if money is no object for you, then the new lens is of course the better choice of the two.

Nikkor Z 24-70mm f/2.8 S II specs

Nikkor Z 24-70mm f/2.8 S II specs

Type:

Standard zoom

Mount:

Z-mount

Sensor:

Full-frame

Focal length:

24-70mm

Max aperture:

f/2.8

Minimum focus:

0.79ft / 0.24 m at 24mm, 1.09ft / 0.33 m at 70mm with a 0.32x max magnification

Filter size:

77mm

Dimensions:

3.4in x 5.6 inches / 84mm x 142mm

Weight:

1.49lbs / 675g

Nikon Z 24-70mm f/2.8 S II: Design

  • Lightest lens of its kind, just 675g
  • Weather-resistant design, internal zoom
  • Multiple control rings, including a clicked / de-clicked

The 24-70mm f/2.8 is a classic standard zoom and essential offering in a professional mirrorless camera system, historically sitting in the middle of a trio of professional f/2.8 zooms – the other two usually being a 14-24mm f/2.8 and 70-200mm f/2.8.

When I bought my first mirrorless camera, the Nikon Z6 II, I chose the original Z 24-70mm f/2.8 S as my first lens. Such is its quality and versatility that it ended up being the only lens I owned for years, until I splurged on a fast-aperture telephoto prime.

I didn't think the original 24-70mm needed updating – it's such a good lens already. However, the mark II is the first second-generation Z-mount lens, and it does indeed upgrade the original in several ways.

In terms of design, the Z 24-70mm f/2.8 S II is the lightest of its kind, just 675g – that's approximately 16% lighter than the 805g original. I used both lenses together and I can't say I noticed the difference particularly, even over a long day of event photography. However, that is a decent drop in weight.

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Nikon Z 24-70mm f/2.8 S II lens mounted to a tripod with autumnal lake background

(Image credit: Tim Coleman)
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Nikon Z 24-70mm f/2.8 S II lens mounted to a tripod with autumnal lake background

(Image credit: Tim Coleman)

The new lens's diameter is slimmer than before, too, with a 77mm filter thread to the original's 82mm. However, the new lens is longer than the original – that is when both lenses are set to the 24mm focal length.

Zoom each lens to 70mm, and that's where the difference kicks in – the new lens has an internal zoom, meaning its dimensions are unchanged as you move through the zoom range (see above), whereas the original lens extends past its successor as you zoom in.

For me, the internal zoom is the single biggest upgrade in the new lens, not only for better balance, but improved ruggedness – it's one less potential point of weakness in terms of dust and dirt ingress. Also, being shorter at 70mm, it's less likely to knock against your surroundings, which is helpful for hectic environments like weddings and events. You can see how the two lenses differ in length below.

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Nikon Z 24-70mm f/2.8 S II lens mounted to a Nikon Z6 III, alongside Nikon Z 24-70mm f/2.8 S lens attached to a Nikon Z6 II

(Image credit: Tim Coleman)
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Nikon Z 24-70mm f/2.8 S II lens mounted to a Nikon Z6 III, alongside Nikon Z 24-70mm f/2.8 S lens attached to a Nikon Z6 II

(Image credit: Tim Coleman)

We lose the basic top LED, which on the original could display key lens settings, including focus distance. In practice, it's not a feature that I particularly missed. Instead, we gain a control ring which can be set to clicked or de-clicked – I suspect most users will set this ring to control aperture. There's three rings in all; zoom, focus and that custom ring.

There's a reassuring quality to the lens, despite its lightweight design – each ring, button and switch handles well. And it balances perfectly with the Nikon Z6 III, which is the camera I was testing the lens with. By extension, it'll be a decent fit with the Z8 and Z9 cameras, too.

A lens hood is supplied with the lens, and it features a hatch. The idea is that when the hatch is open, it's much easier to make on the go adjustments to a filter, say a variable ND for video recording.

On that note, there is a general sense that the mark II version of the lens is better designed for video work. Autofocus is speedier – more on that shortly – focus breathing is suppressed, and there's that de-clicked aperture control ring for smooth adjustments while recording.

Close focusing is also improved – the minimum focus distance depends on the focal length, but the maximum magnification is 0.32x – that's an improvement from the original's 0.22x, and suitable for close up details such as wedding rings, without being a proper macro lens.

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Closeup of the Nikon Z 24-70mm f/2.8 S II lens hood with filter hatch open

(Image credit: Tim Coleman)
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Closeup of the Nikon Z 24-70mm f/2.8 S II lens' lens hood with filter hatch closed

(Image credit: Tim Coleman)
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Closeup of the Nikon Z 24-70mm f/2.8 S II lens' lens hood with filter hatch open

(Image credit: Tim Coleman)
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Closeup of the Nikon Z 24-70mm f/2.8 S II lens' lens hood with filter hatch closeed

(Image credit: Tim Coleman)
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Closeup of the Nikon Z 24-70mm f/2.8 S II lens' zoom ring

(Image credit: Tim Coleman)
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Closeup of the Nikon Z 24-70mm f/2.8 S II lens' controls

(Image credit: Tim Coleman)
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Closeup of the Nikon Z 24-70mm f/2.8 S II lens' clicked ring control

(Image credit: Tim Coleman)

Nikon Z 24-70mm f/2.8 S II: Performance

  • Incredibly sharp edge to edge
  • Smooth bokeh and impressive control of all lens distortions
  • Versatile maximum f/2.8 aperture and snappy autofocus

I've taken a wide range of photos in various scenarios with the lens attached to a Nikon Z6 III (with all in-camera lens corrections turned off), using the various aperture settings and focal lengths. Put simply, the Z 24-70mm f/2.8 S II is optically flawless, save for a light fall-off at f/2.8 (vignetting, which I rather like).

Detail is pin-sharp from center to edges. For reference, I compared like-for-like images shot with the original, and the new lens has the edge (I'm also working on a versus piece between the two lenses where I will share comparison images, coming soon). You'll need to zoom in to 100% to appreciate the difference, but it is there. I wouldn't feel the need to apply any sharpness corrections when editing the images, whereas with the original I tend to apply a little.

Bokeh quality is similar between both lenses. Sure, you'll want a f/1.4 prime or faster for bigger bokeh, but bokeh rendering at f/2.8 is pleasantly smooth and free of any distortion.

What's all the more impressive is that optical quality is better despite what is a simpler optical design – the new lens has 14 elements in 10 groups, compared to the original's 17 elements in 15 groups (this also partly explains the lighter weight of the new lens).

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Nikon Z 24-70mm f/2.8 S II sample gallery: a wooden sign up a tree that says Breathe in, hold, breathe out, sigh, with the sun behind it

You'll get lovely crsip sunstars when stopping lens aperture down to, say, f/16 (Image credit: Tim Coleman)
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Nikon Z 24-70mm f/2.8 S II sample gallery: a wooden sign up a tree that says Breathe in, hold, breathe out, sigh, with the sun behind it

At f/2.8, I'm not seeing chromatic aberration distortion (Image credit: Tim Coleman)
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Nikon Z 24-70mm f/2.8 S II sample gallery: A footpath through woodland

At f/2.8, there is light fall-off (vignetting) (Image credit: Tim Coleman)
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Nikon Z 24-70mm f/2.8 S II sample gallery: A footpath through woodland

In the same scene but at f/8, light fall off is all but gone (Image credit: Tim Coleman)
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Nikon Z 24-70mm f/2.8 S II sample gallery: close up of backlit long grass

Bokeh is smooth (Image credit: Tim Coleman)
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Nikon Z 24-70mm f/2.8 S II sample gallery: man in sunglasses and winter jacket

Detail is crisp, autofocus reliable (with the Z6 III's subject detection AF) (Image credit: Tim Coleman)
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Nikon Z 24-70mm f/2.8 S II sample gallery: main. inshades with the sun behind him

Finally, some flare! Not that I'd take a poor quality picture like this for real – I was just trying to eke out flare (Image credit: Tim Coleman)

Photos I took in woodland with strong backlighting at f/2.8 are free from chromatic aberration – a distortion I'd expect to see in such a scenario with lesser-quality lenses. In the same scenario with the lens aperture stopped down to f/16, the lens rendered a crisp sunstar (you can see those two photos in the gallery, above).

Only when I pointed the camera straight towards the sun for a backlit selfie could I get any kind of lens flare – that's not a lens drawback, just an impossible situation I presented the lens with, and better lighting required!

Focus breathing is really well controlled, while autofocus performance is superb too. There's no sense of laboring – the lens snappily latches onto subjects, especially when paired with the Z6 III and making use of that camera's subject-detection tracking autofocus skills.

Combine that optical quality, decent close-focusing skills and speedy autofocus, and the Z 24-70mm f/2.8 S II is an impressive performer on all fronts.

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Nikon Z 24-70mm f/2.8 S II sample gallery: a London bar at night

I could rely on the camera and lens combination for sharp focus even in low light (Image credit: Tim Coleman)
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Nikon Z 24-70mm f/2.8 S II sample gallery: wild horse among heather

Detail is incredibly sharp across this scene (Image credit: Tim Coleman)
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Nikon Z 24-70mm f/2.8 S II sample gallery: man in shades and a baseball cap

(Image credit: Tim Coleman)
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Nikon Z 24-70mm f/2.8 S II sample gallery: back of a young girl, walking along a footpath at golden hour

(Image credit: Tim Coleman)
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Nikon Z 24-70mm f/2.8 S II sample gallery: pine trees and an expansive vista

(Image credit: Tim Coleman)
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Nikon Z 24-70mm f/2.8 S II sample gallery: woodland at golden hour

(Image credit: Tim Coleman)
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Nikon Z 24-70mm f/2.8 S II sample gallery: an elevated viewpoint of a vast woodland

(Image credit: Tim Coleman)

Should you buy the Nikon Z 24-70mm f/2.8 S II?

Buy it if...

You want a versatile professional zoom lens

The 24-70mm zoom range and maximum f/2.8 aperture cover off a huge range of scenarios.

You shoot events and weddings

That maximum f/2.8 aperture, fast autofocus skills and robust build are a dream combo for the rigors of event and wedding photography.

Don't buy it if...

You own the original 24-70mm f/2.8

Yes, there are a few improvements, but I don't think this new mark II version merits the financial hit of an upgrade at full price; it'll be a different story when its price drops.

You don't mind a secondhand saving

The original 24-70mm f/2.8 can be purchased secondhand for around 30% less than its successor's list price – that feels like the better deal.

Nikon Z 24-70mm f/2.8 S II lens in user's hand, with another Nikon lens mounted to a tripod with autumnal lake background

(Image credit: Tim Coleman)

How I tested the Nikon Z 24-70mm f/2.8 S II

  • I tested it for one month
  • I paired it with the Nikon Z6 III and Nikon ZR cameras
  • I used it for photography and video, both indoors and out

Nikon loaned me the Nikkor Z 24-70mm f/2.8 S II lens for a month, and during this time I've used it for event, portraiture and landscape photography, and as an everyday lens. I've also shot video with it.

I've made direct comparisons with my own 24-70mm f/2.8 S lens to see to what degree Nikon has improved on the original.

I've made sure to take images using various aperture settings and focal lengths, with all in-camera lens corrections switched off, and compared those images to check for any lens distortions and assess bokeh quality.

  • First reviewed November 2025
I tested the EcoFlow Rapid Pro X and found it to be a high-capacity, fast-charging power bank that oozes quality while being user-friendly
11:47 am |
Author: admin | Category: Computers Gadgets Pro | Comments: Off

The EcoFlow Rapid Pro X is a high-capacity, fast-charging power bank that oozes quality while being user-friendly.

EcoFlow Rapid Pro X - Specification

Battery capacity: 99.5Wh

Number of charge cycles: Over 300 before 20% drop

Number of USB sockets: 3 Type C

Number of power inputs: 2

Fastest charge time: 1 hour

Additional features: Bluetooth and Wi-Fi

Weight: 700g

A large color screen constantly shows the remaining power, and three touch buttons make navigating the menu easy. The Pro X also provides haptic feedback in the form of vibrations when accessing menus.

The station can power only Type-C devices and delivers a combined 270W in a compact footprint, the size of a soda can. The Rapid Pro X supports the newer 140W Power-Distribution profile and fully charges in less than an hour to its 100Wh capacity. EcoFlow offers a desktop charger that adds five additional USB ports and fast charging, making it an ideal companion to the Pro X.

The Pro X alone will cost $299 and is currently discounted for $260. Accessories include the desktop 300W charger, which retails at $150, and a 140W GaN Rapid Pro AC adapter for $80.

EcoFlow Rapid Pro X front

(Image credit: Future)

EcoFlow Rapid Pro X: Design

The EcoFlow Pro X battery ships in a compact box, with only a charging cable and a user guide. The unit weighs 700g and measures 5.7cm x 8.4cm x 15.2cm, making it convenient to throw in a backpack. The plastic case with its rounded edges fits easily in the palm. Electrical connections are on the top and bottom, and the plastic shell can be replaced if the case is scratched or broken.

The front panel sports a large 5” color display with the menu accessible using three touch buttons on the right side. Two buttons control the up and down menu, while a third validates the selection. The unit vibrates when touched, and the backlight turns off after 60 minutes of inactivity.

The Pro X hosts three Type-C connectors on the top. The leftmost blue-keyed connector, known as C1, supports up to 140W of power for downstream devices. The remaining two connectors, C2 and C3, can each output 65W, and along with C1, make the Pro X a 270W unit.

The built-in 100Wh Lithium Polymer battery charges via either the high-powered C1 connector or the docking connector at the bottom. Type-C charging is convenient for on-the-go use and requires only a standard power adapter.

With an input power of up to 140W, the charging time is about 40 minutes. The faster method is through the docking station, which can transfer at up to 240W, resulting in a complete charge in under 30 minutes.

EcoFlow Rapid Pro X bottom

(Image credit: Future)

EcoFlow Rapid Pro X: In Use

The EcoFlow Pro X setup is straightforward thanks to a well-designed user interface. We recommend first charging the Pro X, then connecting it to the mobile app, available on both Apple and Android platforms.

A firmware update may be available and pushed to the device. The local clock auto-adjusts once connected to the app. The unit features a timer that can be set to time out in five-minute increments.

The rate at which the Pro X charges through its base station is not constant. The unit will first charge at full power, providing 240W through the bottom pins, but will gradually decrease to settle on 60W at around 40% battery charge. On the other hand, charging through the 140W GaN EcoFlow adapter provides a constant flow and is generally quicker.

The mobile app displays the current charging rate for the internal battery and the output power rate for each connected device. Since all outputs are always enabled, the Pro X will self-discharge over a couple of days, even when no device is connected.

This is likely due to having an active Wi-Fi connection. The unit will also dissipate heat on its own. We recommend turning it off through the menu when unused for an extended period.

In addition to not fully utilizing the 320W capacity when paired with the Rapid Pro desktop charger, the Pro X’s battery provides only 300 charge cycles before experiencing a 20% capacity drop.

EcoFlow Rapid Pro X top

(Image credit: Future)

EcoFlow Rapid Pro X: Competition

The EcoFlow Pro X's main competitor is the Anker Prime power bank, which has a similar form factor and power capacity.

The Pro X has a slightly higher output power capacity, at 300W, compared to the Prime's 250W. The three Type-C sockets are also more helpful than the two Type-C and one Type-A available in the Prime.

EcoFlow Rapid Pro X separate enclosure

(Image credit: Future)

EcoFlow Rapid Pro X: Final Verdict

The EcoFlow Pro X is an excellent portable power source to quickly charge multiple Type-C devices. Its main selling points are a refined UI, a bright display, and WiFi connectivity.

The unit seamlessly integrates into the EcoFlow ecosystem, with the mobile app functioning smoothly. Thanks to the new 140W Type-C power profile, it will charge devices faster than a conventional adapter.

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The Thrustmaster eSwap X2 H.E. is, by default, the best Xbox controller from the brand to date – but the lack of improvements is disappointing
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Thrustmaster eSwap X2 H.E.: one-minute review

We’re big fans of Thrustmaster’s eSwap products at TechRadar Gaming but the Thrustmaster eSwap X2 H.E. isn’t exactly the big leap forward the brand’s controller lineup needs. As for changes, the clue’s in the name. The H.E. packs in a pair of Thrustmaster’s H.E.A.R.T. Hall effect thumbsticks, which is nice, and means you won’t need to buy them separately. It's one of the best Xbox controllers, but slightly better.

If you’re buying an eSwap controller for the first time, then the H.E. is definitely the one to get. By default, it is the best eSwap gamepad to date by packing those Hall effect sticks in with the already excellent eSwap X2. And yes, you can still expect brilliant build quality and Thrustmaster’s commitment to accessibility and customizability through its swappable stick and D-pad modules.

But don’t expect any changes beyond that, which also means issues that we had with the Thrustmaster eSwap X2 are still present here. It’s a bulky controller that, while ideal for big-handed players, can be a bit unwieldy for anyone else. I also found the D-pad to be a little uncomfortable over long play sessions.

Finally, I’m still baffled by the lack of a wireless connectivity option, given the relatively high price of the controller. This is a competitive-facing controller, and naturally wired connections offer little to no input latency. However, as we see in rival controllers like the Razer Wolverine V3 Pro, wireless polling rates are improving, further reducing input lag over 2.4GHz wireless connections on PC. It’s something I’d like to see Thrustmaster at least consider if and when it gets around to making the eSwap X3.

Thrustmaster eSwap X2 H.E

(Image credit: Future)

Thrustmaster eSwap X2 H.E.: price and availability

  • List price: $169.99 / £139.99 (around AU$260)
  • Cheaper than the eSwap X2 in the UK
  • Price remains identical to the eSwap X2 in the US

The Thrustmaster eSwap X2 H.E. launched on October 1, 2025, and is available to buy from Thrustmaster’s website and other stocking retailers for $169.99 / £139.99 (around AU$260). In terms of price, it’s on par with the original Thrustmaster eSwap X2 in the US. In the UK, the eSwap X2 H.E. is £10 cheaper than the first eSwap X2, coming in at £149.99 as opposed to the prior model’s £169.99. Bonus.

Looking at the wider controller market, when it comes to pads compatible with Xbox Series X, Xbox Series S, and PC, the Thrustmaster eSwap X2 H.E. finds itself among a busy crowd. While cheaper than the excellent Razer Wolverine V3 Pro ($199.99 / £199.99), it finds company with the Xbox Elite Wireless Controller Series 2 ($179.99 / £159.99).

And frankly, I’d recommend the eSwap X2 H.E. over that official Xbox pad in a heartbeat, due to the former’s Hall effect sticks and generally superior build quality.

Thrustmaster eSwap X2 H.E. review: Specs

Price

$169.99 / £139.99 (around AU$260)

Weight

10.6oz / 0.3kg

Dimensions

6.3 x 4.7 x 2.4in / 160 x 120 x 60mm

Compatibility

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

Connection type

Wired (USB-C)

Battery life

N/A

Thrustmaster eSwap X2 H.E

(Image credit: Future)

Thrustmaster eSwap X2 H.E. review: design and features

The Thrustmaster eSwap X2 H.E. remains largely identical to the original eSwap X2 in design. It’s the exact same shape and has all the same features. That includes swappable thumbstick and D-pad modules, trigger locks, and four remappable buttons on the rear of the pad.

You also have a row of on-board function buttons at the bottom of the controller, and these are for headset volume and mic muting, as well as swapping between custom button profiles. You can hit a ‘map’ button to customize the rear remappable buttons, too, if you don’t like the fact that they’re assigned to the four face buttons by default.

The controller does feel quite bulky in the hands, and the thumbsticks rest higher than what you’ll find on the average pad. As such, it really benefits players with larger hands, or those looking for an especially sturdy grip. It’s not quite to my personal preference, but I absolutely can see it being many players’ go-to pad for specifically this reason.

Much like the Victrix Pro BFG Reloaded, the Thrustmaster eSwap X2 H.E. supports swappable stick and d-pad modules. These are magnetic, and pop out either by pulling them (don’t worry, you’re not at risk of breaking these as they’re especially sturdy and there’s no physical connection), or the included screwdriver which slots into the D-pad. This makes it easy to adopt a symmetrical stick layout if you prefer, or to swap out with other Thrustmaster modules that are sold separately.

As was the case with the eSwap X2, you can expect build quality to be solid here. After all, it is for all intents and purposes also an eSwap X2, just with the addition of those Hall effect sticks included in the box. So no movement or changes on that front.

Thrustmaster eSwap X2 H.E

(Image credit: Future)

Thrustmaster eSwap X2 H.E. review: Performance

The inclusion of Thrustmaster H.E.A.R.T. thumbsticks really is the selling point here. These resist stick drift and are a massive improvement over the eSwap X2’s default sticks. They feel super smooth, too, reminding me greatly of the Nintendo Switch 2 Pro Controller’s sublime stick feel.

Like the original X2, the face buttons here are impressively responsive and tactile, offering a mouse click-esque press. You’ll feel the difference immediately if you’re used to the softer, spongier button presses of cheaper pads like the Xbox Wireless Controller. The immediacy of presses here are super satisfying, and that also goes for the clicky bumpers and D-pad.

Speaking of, the D-pad here actually isn’t among my favorites. While I appreciate its responsiveness, the raised, bumpy design is something I found to be quite uncomfortable to use over longer stretches of time. It’s far from horrible, but for platformers, arcade-style games, and the best fighting games, it’s not a great fit.

One other thing to note is that the H.E. is still a strictly wired controller. To an extent, this is to be expected, as what we have here is essentially a slight revision of the eSwap X2. The ‘definitive’ version, quite possibly. I’d definitely like to see Thrustmaster offer a wireless solution for its next big gamepad release, though, as I strongly feel the option should be there when your controller is north of the $120 / £120 mark.

Thrustmaster eSwap X2 H.E

(Image credit: Future)

Should I buy the Thrustmaster eSwap X2 H.E.?

Buy it if...

You’re new to the eSwap line
If you’re looking to buy an eSwap controller for the first time, then the H.E. really is the only choice you need to make. Depending on where you live, it’s the same price or slightly cheaper than the standard eSwap X2, and offers Hall effect sticks in the box.

You want a chunky, sizable controller
There aren’t many controllers that seem designed primarily for larger hands. This may not have been the intended design goal with the eSwap X2 H.E., but its chunky build and high quality make it extra comfortable if your hands are on the larger size.

Don't buy it if...

You own an eSwap X2
Quite simply, if you already have a Thrustmaster eSwap X2 controller, there’s no reason to buy this latest revision. Instead, you should consider picking up the H.E.A.R.T. modules from Thrustmaster’s website.

Thrustmaster eSwap X2 H.E. review: Also consider

Not too keen on the Thrustmaster eSwap X2 H.E.? Here are a couple more controllers worth considering if you’re planning to upgrade from the stock Xbox Wireless Controller, or otherwise.

Thrustmaster eSwap X2 H.E.

Victrix Pro BFG Reloaded

Nacon Revolution X Unlimited

Price

$169.99 / £139.99 (around AU$260)

$209.99 / £179.99 (around AU$322)

$199.99 / £179.99 (around AU$300)

Weight

10.6oz / 300g

9.3oz / 265g

11.53oz / 327g

Dimensions

6.3 x 4.1 x 2.4in / 160 x 105 x 60mm

6.3 x 4.2 x 2.6in / 160 x 106 x 66mm

7.5 x 7.4 x 3.5in / 190 x 189 x 89mm

Compatibility

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

Xbox Series X, Xbox Series S, Xbox One, PC (PlayStation version sold separately)

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

Connection type

Wired (USB-C)

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

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

Battery life

N/A

Around 20 hours

Around 10 hours

Victrix Pro BFG Reloaded
The Victrix Pro BFG Reloaded is more expensive, but offers wireless connectivity and a similar module-swapping tech to the eSwap X2 H.E. You’re even getting a ‘fightpad’ module in the box that works excellently with fighting games or your favorite arcade classics.

Read our full Victrix Pro BFG Reloaded review

Nacon Revolution X Unlimited
Certainly a strange one at first glance with its built-in LCD display. But this ends up being the Revolution X Unlimited’s best feature, offering plenty of convenient options and features right on the deck without needing to open any external software. A real winner and one of my favorites.

Read our full Nacon Revolution X Unlimited review

How I tested the Thrustmaster eSwap X2 H.E.

  • Tested for a week
  • Played a variety of games across Xbox and PC
  • Compared to the previous eSwap X2, and the Victrix BFG Pro Reloaded among others

I tested the eSwap X2 H.E. for about a week for this review. I was already familiar with the original eSwap X2 via its excellent Elden Ring: Shadow of the Erdtree special edition, and I found the H.E. to be completely identical in design and performance, with the addition of those included Hall effect sticks.

I played games across Xbox Series X Digital Edition and PC, including Final Fantasy 14 Online, Tekken 8, Ninja Gaiden 4, The Outer Worlds 2, and Virtua Fighter 5 R.E.V.O. World Stage.

I compared my time with the eSwap X2 H.E. primarily with that of the Victrix Pro BFG Reloaded. Victrix’s pad is the most similar to Thrustmaster’s with its swappable modules. While I do prefer the Pro BFG Reloaded overall, that mainly comes down to personal preference given its aptitude for fighting games and a comfier build for my smaller hands. Still, the eSwap X2 H.E. is more affordable, which is a strong reason to consider it here.

First reviewed October/November 2025

Read more about how we test

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