This review first appeared in issue 355 of PC Pro.
If you want an example of what not to use Copilot for in PowerPoint, then I have just the thing.
You might think that asking Copilot Pro to “create a presentation about Copilot Pro in PowerPoint” would be an easy win for the AI. You would think wrong: instead, it came up with a presentation about a fictitious piece of software that appears to combine advanced aircraft flight planning with a collision avoidance system – which it illustrated with a picture of a car.
Of all the Office applications, PowerPoint probably benefits least from Copilot Pro when it comes to creating documents from scratch. This is down to it not having one of the key features that business users of Copilot get: the ability to take a Word document and turn it into a PowerPoint deck. PowerPoint is, fundamentally, an application for taking information and presenting it in a visual format, and a 2,000-character prompt just isn’t enough for anything except the shortest presentations.
“Create a six-slide presentation about processors” resulted in this half-decent effort, even if Copilot’s choice of images is a little random (not unusually).(Image credit: Future)
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What Copilot is good for, though, is taking an existing deck and improving it. If you don’t like a visual being on the left-hand side of a slide, you can just ask Copilot to move it to the right – although you also need to tell it to move whatever is already on the right to the left, too, if you don’t want a visual pile-up to ensue. Similarly, asking it to change the headline font on all slides to, say, Constantia – and it makes the changes in seconds – feels magical.
Wisely, Microsoft includes a set of pre-made prompts to get you started with the kind of things that Copilot is good at. For example, it can scan a deck for deadlines and list them all out, helping you avoid that moment when you realize you have combined two people’s work and got entirely different deadlines for a project in them.
Overall, stick to the preset prompts at first, and Copilot Pro in PowerPoint is a useful tool.
This review first appeared in issue 355 of PC Pro.
There are three key features in Copilot for Outlook: summarization, drafting and coaching. Summarization is probably the feature you’ll encounter first, as every email you receive has a prominent “Summary by Copilot” bar at the top.
Click on this, and it creates a short, easy-to-read summary of the key points in the email. How useful this will be depends on the kind of mail you get. But if you spend a long time reading complex emails and trying to work out what the point is, you’ll love it.
The second main feature, drafting, is like the drafting feature in Word, in that you give it a prompt and it writes the email for you. You can vary the tone using pop-up options – direct, neutral, casual, formal or, erm, “make it a poem” – and set the length as short, medium or long. Beware: Outlook uses the last tone you selected, so if you do decide to write a poem, remember to change it before drafting an email to your accountant.
As with Word, I’d categorize the results as “something to start with and personalize” rather than the finished article. Tonally, it veers towards the extreme: formal is very formal, and casual is probably fine for sending to family and close friends only. In my tests, direct produced the best results, although some of its phrases required toning down to stop them sounding like the kind of email you get from the bailiffs chasing you for a late payment.
My favorite feature is coaching. This checks the content of an email you’ve written and gives you tips on how to improve it, with clear advice that’s actually useful. It advised me to make my tone more confident, which professional writing coaches have told me in the past.
This review first appeared in issue 355 of PC Pro.
It could be because I tried Copilot in OneNote after all the other apps. It could be a because I’m not a regular OneNote user. Or it could be that this is indeed a, “oh, I suppose we should add it to OneNote as well” kind of effort.
Copilot appears in OneNote the same way as most other apps: as a button in the Home ribbon. You can do all the things you’d expect, such as summarizing meeting notes and creating action points. But where in Teams it feels powerful and integrated, here it feels like an add-on.
For example, I hoped that it would tie in with the transcription option, perhaps creating a rival to Otter.ai that not only delivered the notes but gave me something extra, such as sentiment analysis. But no, it couldn’t even remove the timestamps from the text when I accidentally kept them in.
You’ll also need to be careful about where you file notes, as Copilot has some difficulty discerning between the active note and all the ones filed within a project. Mind you, the fact that it can work across a bunch of collated notes has its advantages, too.
Copilot in OneNote performed best when working with my scrawled notes from a meeting, deducing that when I wrote some names next to “Who?” that these were indeed the people involved.
If you’re a OneNote fan then you’ll probably like what Copilot Pro can do. But I can’t see this making any new converts.
The ThinkPad P16 Gen 2 is Lenovo's flagship mobile workstation, designed as an absolute powerhouse for engineers, designers, and professionals who need a portable workhorse of a machine. ThinkPad has always been Lenovo's trusted professional brand known for its reliability, durability, fantastic keyboard, and overall excellence as a computer.
I previously reviewed the Lenovo ThinkPad P16v Gen 2, a similar computer. I like to think of it straightforwardly because the P16v is the lite version of the P16. Or, to use Apple terms, the P16v would be the MacBook Air with upgraded RAM, and the P16 is the MacBook Pro with a Max chip. They are both some of the best Lenovo ThinkPad laptops around in their own right and are overpowered by the vast majority of users. But, for those power users, the differences become apparent.
(Image credit: Collin Probst // Future)
Lenovo ThinkPad P16 Gen 2: Price and Availability
The ThinkPad P16 Gen 2 starts at a base price of just under $2,000 at $1,849. With that, you get a core i5, an RTX A1000, 8GB of RAM, and 256GB of SSD storage.
However, you can easily break $6,000 and even $6,500 if you opt for the maxed specs of a Core i9, an RTX 5000 Ada, 192GB of RAM, and 8TB of SSD. You can grab one of these workstations on Lenovo's website or their approved retailers.
(Image credit: Collin Probst // Future)
Lenovo ThinkPad P16 Gen 2: Unboxing & first impressions
Since I recently reviewed the ThinkPad P16v Gen 2, I had a good idea of what this laptop would look, feel, and operate like before I even opened the box. However, I still ended up surprised at just how much larger the P16 (no "v") was compared to the "v" variant. I will grant that it feels more durable than the other, but regardless, this laptop is not for frequent travelers - unless you know what you are getting into and need this power portably.
Outside of that shock, the rest of the first look was as to be expected. It looks like a quality ThinkPad laptop, and that's precisely what I have come to expect from Lenovo.
Another thing worth mentioning is the excellent port offering, yet the inability to charge via a USB-C connection due to it requiring the first-party power supply.
(Image credit: Collin Probst // Future)
Lenovo ThinkPad P16 Gen 2: Design & build quality
Specs
Processor Options: 13th & 14th Gen Intel Core HX (up to i9-13980HX) GPU Options: Nvidia RTX 1000 Ada – RTX 5000 Ada RAM: Up to 192GB DDR5 Storage: Up to 8TB Display: 16” 2560x1600 (165Hz, 500 nits, 100% sRGB) Optional: 3840x2400 OLED (HDR, touchscreen, 400 nits) Battery: 94Wh Weight: 6.5 lbs (2.95 kg) Ports: 2x USB-A, 2x USB-C (Thunderbolt 4), HDMI 2.1, SD card reader, Ethernet OS: Windows 11 Pro
The Lenovo ThinkPad P16 Gen 2 is a very robust laptop; there is no disguising that. I show the thickness difference between an iPhone 16 Pro and this laptop in one of the linked photos. Thankfully, that mass comes with a heavy-duty build, not just a heavy build. The Magnesium-aluminum chassis also has a premium and sturdy feeling, adding to the overall appeal of the ThinkPad P16 Gen 2.
One of the best features of a Lenovo ThinkPad is the keyboard, which remains top of the line when it comes to the best business laptop I've reviewed, without any loss of feel or function. The ThinkPad P16 Gen 2 also features a full numpad, the famous red trackpoint, and a comfortable trackpad.
(Image credit: Collin Probst // Future)
Lenovo ThinkPad P16 Gen 2: In use
My team has had the Lenovo ThinkPad P16 Gen 2 in rotation for a few months. While it's for sure not the laptop we would choose to take on a trip with us, nor one we want to bring to the coffee shop for a light afternoon of work, it is, however, the one that we want to use around the studio or within the home due to its raw performance and abilities.
Under our stress testing, we noticed that the laptop would kick on the fans and get decently hot and a bit loud, but it kicks on the fans and cools itself down.
Another feature worth mentioning is the battery. It's impressive that this kind of power can be in a laptop form factor, but then you see that it can only last 5-7 hours with light use and a mere 2-3 with heavy load, and you realize this computer's power and lack of battery.
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Lenovo ThinkPad P16 Gen 2: Final verdict
The ThinkPad P16 Gen 2 is one of the best mobile workstations available, delivering exceptional CPU & GPU performance, a premium 165Hz display, and an unbeatable keyboard. However, its weight, fan noise, and thermal limits mean it’s best suited for desk-based professionals rather than frequent travelers.
The Dell OptiPlex 7420 AIO is a compact desktop solution designed for the office. It combines reliable performance with a sleek design and is powered by Intel's 14th-Gen Raptor Lake processor. The PC can have up to an Intel Core i9-14900 with 64GB of RAM and dual m.2 Gen 4 SSD slots.
Sadly, this only comes with a 23.8-inch Full HD display, which is pretty poor by today's standards. It's not the absolute best business computer around, for sure. However, in the professional office world, you won't miss it while looking at spreadsheets, older software that has not been upgraded since the early 2000's, or answering emails.
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While graphical intensity is not a focus of this computer, Dell has focused on simplicity and ease of use. Since everything is built into this compact computer, it is easy to toss on a front desk, on a medical cart that rolls around to check on patients, in a classroom, or even in small business retail scenarios.
Another critical factor to the Dell OptiPlex 7420 AIO is the fact that it can be VESA-mountable, meaning you could mount your entire workstation on a simple VESA mount that could be on a rolling cart with a portable power station, on a two-sided desk so you can flip the computer on either side of the desk, at a workstation that doesn't always need a computer, and so on. The possibilities are endless.
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Dell OptiPlex 7420: Price and Availability
The base model of the OptiPlex 7420 AIO is $1,239 and comes with an i5, 8GB RAM, and 256GB SSD. A higher-end configuration can exceed $2,300 and comes with specs like an i9, an AMD Radeon RX 6500 GPU, and/or 64GB of RAM. I spoke with Dell, and they mentioned that only a tiny fraction of their computers are purchased through their website and that computers like this are frequently purchased in corporate bulk purchases through Dell's commercial sales channels or even through third-party vendors like Amazon, Best Buy, and other tech retailers.
Dell OptiPlex 7420: Unboxing & first impressions
For years now, Dell has made a push for sustainable packaging. At this point, as a tech reviewer, I have come to expect my packages from Dell to be recycled materials. The OptiPlex 7420 AIO is no different. This packaging is rated at up to 93% recycled materials.
(Image credit: Collin Probst // Future)
Once I opened the box, I found the computer, stand, base, power cable, and essential documentation. Dell has the option to add their basic keyboard and mouse if you need them, or if you have your own that you prefer to use, you could choose to use those instead. Another option is the embedded disk drive; the base resembles typical Dell monitors. But, with the embedded disk drive, this base now has the functionality of an entire disk drive built into an AIO format.
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Dell OptiPlex 7420: Design & build quality
Specs
Processor: Intel 14th Gen Raptor Lake (Up to Core i9-14900) Memory: Up to 64GB DDR5 RAM Storage: Dual M.2 PCIe Gen4 slots, up to 2TB SSD per slot Graphics: Intel UHD 770 (integrated) / AMD Radeon RX 6500 (discrete) Display: 23.8-inch FHD (1920x1080) Ports: 1x USB-C, 5x USB-A 3.2, HDMI 2.1, DisplayPort 1.4 OS: Windows 11 Pro
The OptiPlex 7420 AIO is very sleek, as I have mentioned. But that's part of what makes this computer so compelling for the right audience. In a public-facing office, medical office, school, store, or something similar, you don't always want a big, flashy computer workstation with multiple monitors, flashy desktops, laptops, or big speakers. You probably want something simple, easy to upkeep, and easy to use, all while not drawing attention to the computer, the rats-nest of cabling behind the monitor, or the large space-hogging desktop tucked to the side or under a monitor.
The VESA mounting feature in this computer makes it highly versatile compared to other AIOs, especially the standard desktop. Yet, if you do choose to use the stand, you can get features like the built-in disk drive, monitor rotation, tilt, and height adjustments.
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Dell OptiPlex 7420: In use
The Dell OptiPlex 7420 AIO is unashamedly designed for office and administrative work. It's not meant to do heavy computing coding, graphic processing, video editing, or anything like that. What it is intended to do, though, is be able to access and navigate within an extensive client database and pull records for clients, or have a lot of dated and perhaps not super efficient medical programs up, or have a lot of applications going at the same time all with wicked fast response times so that your business isn't waiting for your front line's computer to load a proper file, process something into your database, or contact the right person. Keeping in line with this focus, thanks to the NVMe SSD support, the Optiplex 7420's boot time is quick, and the overall navigation and UI between programs are snappy and smooth.
The display is lacking a bit. However, 4K is not as big of a deal in the business world as in other professions. So, my only note is that it's not a super gorgeous, perfectly color-accurate monitor, and that's okay; it's not supposed to have that.
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In this day and age, with so many meetings having a virtual possibility -- that is, the chance of it being a virtual meeting on Google Meet, Zoom, WebEx, or something similar - having a webcam is nearly vital. So, Dell put a pop-up webcam with HDR and presence detection into the OptiPlex 7420. What's great is that since it's a pop-out, you can pop it out when you need it and then pop it back in when you don't, just as quickly.
(Image credit: Collin Probst // Future)
While this has a soundbar on the bottom of the display, the sound is not incredible. Still, it will be fine for video calls, listening to voicemails over a VoIP client, or watching a cooking tutorial on your break.
Dell OptiPlex 7420: Final verdict
The Dell OptiPlex 7420 All-in-One is a robust business-class AIO with solid performance and a sleek design. Equipped with Intel's 14th Gen processors and dual SSD slots, it provides excellent speed. The VESA mounting option adds versatility, making it suitable for office settings and kiosks. However, the 1080p display is disappointing, and the limited GPU options may not be the best choice for creative professionals. Nonetheless, this computer is still an excellent option for the right professional.
Asus has introduced another fantastic keyboard with the ROG Falchion Ace HFX. This 65% board, which compresses only the most essential keys onto a short panel, offers immense functionality across several areas.
The drawcard of the Falchion Ace HFX is its incredible switches. While the standard Falchion Ace is available with three switch choices, the HFX only offers one tactile feel option – comfortable to the touch magnetic keys, making this Asus’ first hall effect keyboard. It’s one of the most satisfying keyboards to use that I’ve ever laid my hands on.
Despite not offering a wireless connection, it does include a dual USB-C arrangement so that it can quickly switch between two computers with a press of a button on the side, similar to how a monitor might switch between devices. A USB dongle or Bluetooth solution might have been more practical to pull this trick off, but it’s still a welcome ability.
(Image credit: Zachariah Kelly / TechRadar)
More interesting to me is the return of Asus’ proprietary touch bar, a unique design element of the Falchion series that compresses media controls, volume, keyboard RGB brightness and other handy features into a touch panel, letting you adjust settings with taps and swipes of your finger. This feature rocked and is much more intuitive than a FN + key macro solution, though the depth of macroing with this keyboard is immense, allowing you to arrange quick commands, website hotkeys and quick Windows commands with a bindable keystroke.
With so much positive to say about the ROG Falchion Ace HFX, there aren’t many drawbacks, although the ones that are there might keep you from a purchase. This board doesn’t come cheap and is one of the most expensive options that Asus offers. The lack of a wireless variant will also leave buyers cutting down on cable clutter unimpressed, and those seeking wrist support will need to make a separate purchase.
More diehard keyboard shoppers will also be left unimpressed by the lack of hot-swapping functionality, and that there's only one switch type available (though the standard ROG Falchion offers three different options).
It’s a tremendous piece of kit. The ROG Falchion Ace HFX is one of the keyboards to beat in 2025, and it may be my favourite keyboard since the Logitech G PRO X TKL.
Asus ROG Falchion Ace HFX: price and availability
(Image credit: Zachariah Kelly / TechRadar)
How much does it cost? $199/£239.99/$AU$359
When is it available? Available now
Where can you get it? Available in the US, UK, Australia and other regions
The ROG Falchion Ace HFX is the fourth most expensive keyboard that Asus offers, below the base model Azoth, customizable Claymore II, and the extremely expensive Azoth Extreme. The price marked for the Ace HFX is reflective of the epic magnetic switches underlying its awesome-feeling keys, but given its 65% size profile, it lacks a lot of the typically essential buttons present in the higher-priced models, including a dedicated function row and numpad.
Not that you should feel you need to move up the range for said features, because the Falchion Ace HFX is more than competent and exclusive on its own terms. Compared to the competition, it’s one of the only options to offer magnetic switches on a 65% board. You may want to consider the Logitech G Pro X 60 if you want an even smaller board, or the Glorious GMMK 3 Pro 65 if you want greater customization, but there aren't many major brands offering magnetic switches right now.
Value: 4/5
Asus ROG Falchion Ace HFX: specs
Asus ROG Falchion HFX: design and features
(Image credit: Zachariah Kelly / TechRadar)
More reserved ROG design
Brilliant build quality
Useful multifunction panel and dual computer support
Asus’ ROG gaming accessories are at their best when they don’t look too gamery, and the Falchion HFX looks fairly neutral compared to many other high-end boards offered by the manufacturer.
Available only in black, the one thing about this board that I would consider a tad excessive from a design perspective is the spelling out of ‘Republic of Gamers’ across the top. RGB lights behind each key are programmable with several lighting animations available.
At the top left, you’ll see an illuminated symbol, indicating which setting you’ve got your multi-function touch panel set to, cycleable with the press of a multifunction button in the top left. The panel across the back can be swiped with a fingertip, and can be used to adjust brightness and volume, change key actuation points, play and pause media, or even pull off any dedicated macros you have in mind. In the Armory Crate app, you can limit which functions the cycling button switches between, allowing for a more streamlined experience (I simply have it set to volume and media controls). This touch bar isn’t a new feature, as it’s been available on other Falchion models since 2022, but it works especially well on a small board like this.
There are also lights at the top right, indicating if win lock has been activated, if caps lock is currently on, and if ‘Rapid Trigger’ has been enabled, allowing for much quicker keystroke response times than whatever your preset mode is set to.
Your keyboard’s RGB lighting and per key actuation points can also be adjusted in the ROG Armory Crate app, where you'll find Speed Tap mode. This changes the function of the keyboard to allow for quicker directional changes by prioritising the last pressed in key – so instead of coming to a full stop when strafing in a game, you’ll move left to right or vice versa without lifting your fingers off the keys.
Design and features: 5/5
Asus ROG Falchion HFX: Performance
(Image credit: Zachariah Kelly / TechRadar)
8,000Hz polling rate
Magnetic hall effect switches with five layer dampening
Useful competitive gaming features
The Asus ROG Falchion HFX is a gaming keyboard aimed at competitive play, through and through. It offers an exceptional 8,000Hz polling rate – an enormous amount of reports the keyboard provides your computer in a second, theoretically improving response time. As a result of this, click latency is as low as 1.1ms on average with the Falchion HFX.
The keys feel coarse in a comfortable way, allowing for satisfying tactile contact between your fingertips and your inputs. A raised dot on the W key allows you to position your hands for gaming without looking down, brilliant for low-light battle stations.
The actuation point of your keys can be adjusted readily on the fly using the multi-function touch panel, allowing for much more shallow keypresses if you so wish. Backing all of this up is the fact that the keys are magnetic, and well damped to allow for a satisfying press while also being quick and not too loud. On the less technical side, the keyboard has three adjustment angles with two sets of feet underneath.
Many of these features may go above and beyond the needs of a casual gamer and indeed are well past the desires of somebody just after a useful typing tool. But for a dedicated gamer, the ROG Falchion HFX might be the exact device for your hobby.
Mechanical keyboard enthusiasts will likely be disappointed by the lack of hot-swappable keys, and that there's only one switch to choose from. Thankfully, the base model ROG Falchion offers more switch variety – the Falchion HFX is more of a performance model with its magnetic keys.
Performance: 5/5
Should I buy the Asus ROG Falchion HFX?
Buy it if...
You crave good performance and feeling
The ROG Falchion HFX offers a brilliant intersection of form and function, contained in a 65% board and offering some of the first magnetic switches on a mainstream model.
You want to ROG out
With its lighting and key programming reliant on Asus’ Armory Crate, you’ll likely want this to compliment other Asus peripherals in your arsenal.
Don't buy it if...
The price isn’t right
The ROG Falchion HFX isn’t designed to be a budget winner, and it’ll be a poor fit if you want to save cash.
You want greater customization
Mechanical keyboard fans will likely crave hot-swappable keys, which the ROG Falchion Ace HFX does not offer.
Asus ROG Falchion HFX: also consider
Keychron C3 Pro
Compatible across Mac and Windows PCs, the C3 Pro offers a solid design and a nice price, though it won’t be a winner among serious gamers.
Logitech’s smallest gaming keyboard might be a welcome option if you’re after switches from a premium brand but in a tinier unit.
How I tested the Asus ROG Falchion Ace HFX
I tested the Asus ROG Falchion Ace HFX over four weeks, paired with other Asus products including an OLED monitor, mouse and headset. I used it exclusively on my Windows 11 gaming PC and played games including Marvel Rivals, Avowed, The Headliners and Forza Horizon 5. I also used it for some productivity tasks, such as for typing out documents.
Over that time I used it across several lighting settings, enabled different macros and put it in different positions, while constantly adjusting actuation points and diving into toggles in the Armory Crate app.
Premium power banks designed for high-wattage laptop charging are rare, but the Anker 737 stands out thanks to its 140W output, making it one of the best choices for MacBook Pros and other power-hungry laptops. Anker is a well-known brand recognized for quality, and the 737 delivers top-tier performance with a 24,000 mAh (86.4 Wh) capacity, a built-in screen, and multiple ports for a variety of devices.
While the 737 also comes with a premium price tag, at least it's easy to purchase – either directly from Anker, through online stores, or on Amazon. It's often discounted by up to 30% compared to the list price, making it a great deal for those who can catch it on sale. Plus, it's flight-safe, making it perfect for travelers who need a reliable power source for tedious long-haul flights.
(Image credit: TechRadar)
The Anker 737 is one of a small number of power banks that cater to the latest high-end laptops, with the ability to supply up to 140W (28V, 5A) from the main USB-C port. Of course, it also handles charging phones or other portable devices just as well, with the second USB-C port offering up to 100W (20V, 5A) output, while the USB-A delivers 18W (9V, 2A). The 737 supports fast charging a phone at up to 27W (9V, 3A) as well as PPS 5A (3.3V – 21V) for wide compatibility, including Samsung fast charging.
At 630 grams, the Anker 737 is heavier than some alternatives, but its square 15.7 × 5.5 × 5 cm form factor is particularly well-suited for placement in drink bottle holders and is easy to pack in most bags, though it may be a tight fit in slim laptop bags. The power bank features an excellent color screen that provides real-time information on remaining capacity, battery health, and power output from each port, making it a valuable tool for monitoring device charging. It also includes a low-current charging mode for smaller accessories, activated by double pressing the power button.
The Anker 737’s standout feature is its ability to sustain a 140W output with rock-steady voltages. While it does get warm under sustained high-wattage loads, efficiency remains solid. The Gen 1 model I tested doesn't support 12V output from the USB-C ports, but the latest Gen 2 version of the Anker 737 is upgraded with 12V/3A PD-spec output that, among other things, charges DJI drone batteries at full speed.
At 140W (28V, 5A), 85% of the rated capacity is available. At a more common 100W (20V, 5A), an excellent 89% of the rated capacity is maintained. For phone charging at 9V 20W, the efficiency remains high at 87%. USB-C charging is the most efficient, while the USB-A port delivers 70.5 Wh (81.5%) at 5V 2A compared to 74.2 Wh (86%) from USB-C.
The Anker 737 charges itself impressively fast, reaching full capacity at 140W in under an hour. At 100W, it takes approximately 1.5 hours. It supports pass-through charging at up to 90W, but doesn't allow self-charging at the same time and lacks a UPS mode. The power bank uses high-quality 21700 cells and actively monitors battery health, making it an excellent choice for heavy daily use.
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Anker 737: Price & specs
Anker 737: Test results
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Should I buy the Anker 737?
Buy it if…
You charge a laptop a lot The 140W output on the 737 is ideal for power-hungry devices.
You value premium features like the display It’s very useful being able to check the exact wattage being output by the 737.
Don't buy it if…
You just want a cheap power bank for occasional use The 737 is well worth the price tag, but only if you need all the features.
You want a slim power bank The large capacity and square form factor mean the Anker 737 won’t suit thin laptop bags
Also consider
The Anker 737 is one of the best premium power banks available, but below are a few other options if you are looking for something different.
ZMI No.20 This power bank uses premium components, has a large 25,000 mAh (90 Wh) capacity and is able to fast charge anything from a phone to a laptop at up to 100W.
Iniu B6 power bank Need something easy to carry? With 20W fast-charge capability and a 10,000mAh (37Wh) capacity, the Iniu B6 is the perfect low-cost power bank to slip into your bag when on the go.
I get hands-on with every power bank I test and conduct extensive evaluations in both lab and real-world scenarios. Using tools like the ChargerLab POWER-Z KM003C, I measure charge voltage, protocol support, and log capacity tests.
Each power bank is also tested with real devices, including phones, tablets, and laptops, and connected to a programmable load tester for multiple charge cycles. I carry a selection daily in both pockets and bags to assess their durability and ability to withstand everyday use.
All measurements and weights are personally verified, ensuring accuracy beyond the manufacturer’s listings.
Power banks that claim to fast-charge laptops often fall short, but the ZMI No.20 delivers 100W output in a premium package. ZMI might not be a name you've heard of, but the brand is a key part of Mi (Xiaomi) and is well-known for making excellent, high-quality products. The No.20 is no exception, with a large 25,000 mAh (90 Wh) capacity, high-end components, and impressive multi-device charging capabilities. It’s one of the best power banks available, though it can sometimes be difficult to purchase in Australia and the US, and almost impossible to find in the UK. Amazon is often the best place to buy it, but keep in mind that it doesn't go on sale frequently.
I purchased this power bank personally and have used it for over two years. It remains my favourite laptop-ready power bank, thanks to its high performance, great form factor, and robust reliability.
(Image credit: Future)
The ZMI No.20 features two USB-C input/output ports and one USB-A port. The first USB-C port delivers up to 100W (20V, 5A), while the second is limited to 45W (20V, 2.25A) in or out. The USB-A port can also output 100W (20V, 5A) for PD-compatible devices like laptops, but only when using the included ZMI USB-A to USB-C cable. With a total power output of 210W across all ports, the No.20 has no issue fast charging multiple laptops, phones, or handheld gaming devices simultaneously. The 25,000 mAh capacity is also nearly the largest allowed while still being flight-safe.
This power bank also supports pass-through charging and functions as a UPS, ensuring uninterrupted power delivery when plugging or unplugging devices. It works well with low-power devices like routers (using a USB-C to 12V cable), making it a viable option for backup power needs. The remaining capacity is displayed via a simple but effective light-up percentage indicator that's easy to read in sunlight but slightly too bright at night.
The long but slim form factor makes it easy to fit in bags, including backpacks and laptop bags. At 580 grams, it’s not the lightest option, but its weight is reasonable given its high capacity, and 18.8 cm length and 8.1 cm width allow it to slip into most storage pockets in bags. While providing robust protection if dropped, the shiny plastic finish is prone to scratches. These marks are cosmetic and do not affect performance, though a sleeve can help mitigate them – albeit with some added bulk.
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ZMI No.20: Price & specs
ZMI No.20: Test results
I conduct comprehensive testing of every power bank I review to ensure they meet their manufacturer’s claims. The ZMI No.20 delivers outstanding results and runs slightly cooler than competing power banks, with no observed throttling in normal use.
During testing, the No.20 output 87.9% of its capacity at 20V and 84.9% at 9V, which is above-average efficiency. It sustains 100W output on a single USB-C port or 100W + 45W across both USB-C ports without overheating. The independent USB-C ports ensure that plugging in a second device doesn't cause the first to disconnect or renegotiate power levels.
The 210W total power rating is achieved using the first USB-C port (100W) and the USB-A port (100W) with the included ZMI USB-A to USB-C cable. Connecting two 100W laptops is possible, though if both use the full 100W for an extended period, the power bank may reduce the output. After efficiency losses, the power bank can easily fully charge most laptops, giving double (or more) runtime.
When recharging with a 100W charger, the No.20 hits full capacity in about 1.5 hours (and 80% charge in under an hour), or 2.5 hours when using the 45W input.
The ZMI No.20 uses high-quality Samsung INR21700-50E cells, which typically provide better cycle life and long-term reliability compared to the pouch cells in lower-priced power banks. This makes it ideal for frequent, heavy use.
(Image credit: TechRadar)
Should I buy the ZMI No.20?
Buy it if...
You need to fast charge a laptop The 100W USB-C output is ideal for power-hungry devices like laptops and gaming handhelds.
You need a large-capacity power bank The No.20 has a 25,000 mAh capacity, making it perfect for users who frequently travel or charge multiple devices.
You use your power bank heavily The high-quality Samsung cells and premium build make it ideal for daily heavy use.
Don't buy it if...
You need a pocket-sized power bank The No.20 is on the larger side and is best suited for carrying in a bag.
You want a detailed display The No.20 tells you the remaining capacity but doesn't show extra details like output wattage.
(Image credit: TechRadar)
Also consider
The ZMI No.20 is one of the best premium power banks available, but below are a few other options if you are looking for something different.
Anker 737 (PowerCore 24K) A high-end alternative with a more detailed display, a 140W output, and a love-it-or-hate-it squarish form factor.
Iniu B6 power bank With 20W fast-charge capability and a 10,000 mAh (37Wh) capacity, the Iniu B6 is the perfect low-cost power bank to slip into your bag when on the go.
I get hands-on with every power bank I can and perform extensive testing in both the lab and real-world scenarios. Using equipment like the ChargerLab POWER-Z KM003C, I check charge voltage, protocol support, and log capacity tests.
Each power bank is also tested with real devices, including phones, tablets, laptops, and more, and then connected to a programmable load tester for multiple charge cycles. I carry a selection daily in both pockets and bags to assess their durability and ability to withstand rough, everyday use.
All measurements and weights are personally verified, ensuring accuracy beyond the manufacturer’s listings.
The EcoFlow River 3 is the latest entry-level portable power station from EcoFlow's River series. It offers a compact design, fast charging, and app integration utilizing Bluetooth and Wi-Fi. The River 3 is an ideal travel-friendly power solution for campers, digital nomads, emergency backup needs, and power on the go.
Unlike some of the best portable power stations I've tested, the EcoFlow River 3 offers advanced GaN technology and a compact form with an integrated handle, standard IEC cable charging, and all of the output ports on the front of the unit for ease of use. A digital screen also shows key information that pairs beautifully with the companion app.
(Image credit: Collin Probst // Future)
EcoFlow River 3: Price and Availability
The EcoFlow River 3 has a base price of $239 (currently discounted to $179 at time of review) and is available in a couple of bundle options. You can grab just the power station or the River 3 with a 45W Solar panel for $219. While you can find the EcoFlow River 3 on the EcoFlow website, you can also find it at major retailers like Walmart, BestBuy, Amazon, Home Depot, and more.
(Image credit: Collin Probst // Future)
EcoFlow River 3: Unboxing & first impressions
The EcoFlow River 3 is not my first EcoFlow Power station. I've reviewed quite a bit from EcoFlow over the years. I just reviewed one of my all-time favorite power stations from EcoFlow, the Delta 3 Plus. However, what's incredible about the River line-up is the portability, lightweight design, and charging speeds.
(Image credit: Collin Probst // Future)
Even at first unboxing, I was shocked at how light this power station is, especially while it still has 245Wh and a solid port offering. The River 3 is 10 x 8.3 x 4.4 inches and just under 8 lbs. With its comfortable integrated handle and great shape, this power station is easy to move around and work with. It's so easy and comfortable to carry around; my 5-year-old son helped me with some of my testing and moving it around. Further, River 3 is also IP54-rated dust and water-resistant; it has a fire-retardant casing and a drop resistance of up to 1.5 meters.
In the box are the River 3 Portable Power Station, an AC power cable, a car charger cable, and the user guide. I opted for the basic unit without the solar panel bundle, though you could add those quickly.
(Image credit: Collin Probst // Future)
EcoFlow River 3: Design & build quality
Specs
Capacity: 245Wh
Battery: LiFePO4 (LFP), 3000+ cycles to 80%
Output:
AC: 300W (600W X-Boost)
USB: 2 x USB-A (12W), 1 x USB-C (100W)
DC: 12V Car Port (126W max)
Charging Options:
AC (320W): 0-100% in 60 minutes
Solar (110W): 3 hours in full sun
Car (100W): 2.8 hours full charge
UPS Mode: <20ms switch time
As mentioned, the EcoFlow River 3 is highly compact and portable, especially compared to similarly rated and spec'd power stations. EcoFlow boasts that this unit is 30% smaller than the industry average and has put great focus on ensuring that this is very easy to carry around, so much so that they built an easy-carry handle.
To see how compact this unit is, I tested some spots where I could put it. It fits in the back tray on the rear of my Jeep Cherokee, it fits in the bottom of a standard backpack, it fits in the cabinet of my storage space, it can fit in the storage space in a boat, in a carrier on a four-wheeler, or even in a portable tech cart like I currently have mine -- but more on this later.
On the front of the River 3 is an LED display, two AC outlets (one three-prong, one two-prong), a USB-C with 100W PD charging, two USB-A ports, and a DC car port. The two power-in ports are on the right side.
(Image credit: Collin Probst // Future)
EcoFlow River 3: In use
As I mentioned, I have tried this power station out with a few use cases. While this has been great in many areas, the use case that I have come to rely on this power station for is in a portable work cart that I utilize several days a week. One of the many roles I fill in my week is as Systems Director at a large church. In this role, I need a plethora of gear when I am on-site, and when I am on-site, I can be in any number of places throughout the campus. So, to solve this issue, I built a cart with all the cables, gear, adapters, and materials I may need for any project. The last missing piece was a way to power it, allowing me to charge my everyday carry gear in my backpack (I fit quite a bit in my Nomatic Backpack) while working throughout the building, all while also being able to power any number of computers or other technology that I may need to plug in at any given time. I solved all of these issues with the EcoFlow River 3.
The 100W USB-C power output has been fantastic for charging any of my gear (especially since 90% of what I carry daily is all USB-C to start with). I have connected two power strips to the two AC ports, granting a ton of ports for when I need to be able to plug whatever gear I need to charge. Plus, since there is then an internal battery with the River 3, I can run this setup without needing to plug in all the time, and then when the battery gets low, I can plug it in quickly and watch it recharge ridiculously fast, even when there is a load on the battery (of course, if I am putting a ton of strain on the battery with a ton of gear, it would take a little longer to recharge). So far, I have noticed that the battery within the River 3 will last for around three recharges for my MacBook Pro while also pushing a portable display from Sotsu (review coming soon).
While I don't utilize solar or car input, I could see grabbing this power station in a moment of need if we had a power outage or if I were going camping simply because of how portable and comfortable it is to use this power station. I'm also aware that my use case for this power station is unique, but I hope it shows just how versatile it is.
EcoFlow River 3: Final verdict
The EcoFlow River 3 is an ultra-portable power station for light-duty use with fast charging, UPS support, and a compact design, making it a perfect choice for travel, backing up a smaller device at home, emergency preparedness, or powering a portable workstation. It won't run high-wattage appliances, nor will it charge a Tesla or keep my house powered for hours. However, its efficiency, reliability, and portability make it a power station worth keeping and stand out in its class.
Say hello to another bombastic entrant in Xiaomi's Ultra series. The Xiaomi 15 Ultra leads with its Leica-backed camera array, made all the more prominent by the existing 1-inch 50MP main sensor being joined by a new, larger 1/1.4-inch 200MP telephoto sensor.
As with the Xiaomi 14 Ultra, it takes superb shots that don't look as processed or technically 'perfect' as what you might expect out of Google's Pixel imaging pipeline, but they're potentially better for it. Meanwhile, its videography skills have been tailored to meet and beat the likes of the iPhone 16 Pro series across areas including resolution, control, and LOG video capture.
Beyond the excellent imaging experience, the phone's underlining internals impress, with Qualcomm's Snapdragon 8 Elite running the show. That's backed up by tangible optimization benefits from Xiaomi HyperCore resource management, a new IceCool vapor chamber, and the fastest storage and RAM you'll find on any phone out right now.
(Image credit: Future | Alex Walker-Todd)
HyperOS 2.0 (atop Android 15) expands on the AI feature set introduced on the 14 Ultra, with useful translation, productivity and image editing tools. There's nothing that sets Xiaomi's AI feature set apart from major rivals, but it delivers on its promises (save for Reflection Removal, which refused to work correctly in testing).
Beyond AI, there is a wealth of nice refinements to the look and feel of the user experience, however inconsistencies and some inexplicable choices mean Xiaomi's interface remains one of the more convoluted and trickier to deal with. The company has also only committed to four years of OS and six years of security updates, lagging behind industry leaders and harming the phone's long-term value proposition.
The screen is stunning and boasts better drop resistance than its predecessor's, while the new Si-C (silicon carbide) battery lasts less time than expected but can be replenished quickly, thanks to rapid 90W charging. Presumedly due to some EU regulation, 15 Ultras sold in the EU come with a smaller battery than their Chinese counterparts, although this isn't an ailment that's unique to Xiaomi.
All in all, Xiaomi has improved on everything that made the last Ultra so great, while most of the weaknesses are persistent pain points, more deeply rooted in Xiaomi's approach (primarily to software).
For the price, this is a respectable uber-flagship, however those hoping to get their hands on one in markets like the US or Australia will have a tough time doing so, as Xiaomi doesn't sell its phones in these regions, and carrier support isn't guaranteed.
Xiaomi 15 Ultra review: Price and availability
Priced from £1,299 / €1,599
Released February 27 in China, March 2 internationally
Limited to no availability in US and Australia
As with its predecessor, fans in Xiaomi's homeland of China were treated to a native launch of the 15 Ultra first, on February 27. The company then staged an international release in Barcelona just days later, on March 2.
The phone went on sale on the same day, at 14:30pm GMT, coming in with a starting price of £1,299 / €1,599 across the UK and Europe (the same as its predecessor, in the UK). In some markets, there's also a higher 1TB storage model, which costs £200 more.
In regions like the UK, the Xiaomi 15 Ultra undercuts principle rivals – the Galaxy S25 Ultra and iPhone 16 Pro Max – by £50 and £100 respectively, when comparing like-for-like storage capacities. The main difference being that both of those alternatives can be had for less, if you're willing to drop down to 256GB of onboard space, which Xiaomi doesn't offer with the 15 Ultra. Both also come with less RAM than the Xiaomi.
As ever with Chinese phone makers such as Xiaomi, while the 15 Ultra's March 2 launch was heralded as its 'international' release, the brand doesn't sell smartphones in key markets like the US and Australia (although you will find their smart home and lifestyle products there). As such, beyond importing or buying via third-party retailers, you won't find the Xiaomi 15 Ultra locally; not to mention there may be carrier band incompatibilities with networks in those markets.
Value score: 4.5 / 5
Xiaomi 15 Ultra review: Specs
Xiaomi 15 Ultra review: Design
(Image credit: Future | Alex Walker-Todd)
Leica camera-inspired colorway
Xiaomi Shield Glass 2.0 w/ improved drop resistance
IP68-certified against dust and water
After dropping down display sizes following the Xiaomi Mi 11 Ultra, subsequent generations of the series have generally hovered around the same weight and dimensions, and that continues with the 15 Ultra.
It's a hefty device (226g or 229g, depending on your choice of finish), and a hair thicker than its predecessor. That makes it one of the weightiest candy bar flagships of the current generation and a trait you'll notice in prolonged use, even if it does also reinforce the Ultra's air of premium power.
Aesthetically, the pillowed glass front, chamfered metal frame and large circular camera bump are consistent with the aesthetic Xiaomi has cultivated over the last few generations of Ultra, and stands apart from the more square-jawed looks of its most prominent rivals (save for, perhaps, the similarly curvaceous Honor Magic 7 Pro).
(Image credit: Future | Alex Walker-Todd)
One of the most notable cosmetic changes is to the camera hardware. Whilst the circular quad-sensor array on the 13 Ultra and 14 Ultra offered a pleasing symmetry, Xiaomi has had to shuffle things around quite drastically to accommodate the phone's new headline telephoto snapper. The result is an asymmetrical assortment of lenses that I'd say is weaker visually but gives the 15 Ultra a more utilitarian look, which some might appreciate.
Along with the base all-black and all-white colorways – as was available on the 14 Ultra – this year you also have the option of a Silver Chrome variant (pictured), which tries to evoke the visual identity of Leica's iconic M3.
It's a bit on the nose, as a representation of the ongoing brand partnership between Xiaomi and Leica goes, but it's also undeniably distinct. Two-thirds of the phone's 'aerospace-grade' fiberglass back is wrapped in black faux leather, which stands in contrast to the satin-finish silver it's next to.
The leather has the practical bonus of added grip and after two weeks of testing, hasn't yet shown any signs of wear. That might be down to the fact that I also threw on the included glossy clear hard-shell case whenever taking the phone out and about, though.
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Xiaomi once again launched a Photography Kit accessory pack with its latest Ultra (Image credit: Future | Alex Walker-Todd)
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This generation is called the 'Legend Edition', complete with detachable raised shutter and thumb grip (Image credit: Future | Alex Walker-Todd)
On the subject of durability, like its predecessors, the 15 Ultra packs IP68-certified dust and water resistance, which while great, does now technically lag behind key rivals, like the Oppo Find X8 Pro, OnePlus 13 and aforementioned Magic 7 Pro. In addition to IP68-protection, all three of these alternatives have adopted IP69-certification too (check out our pick of the best rugged phones for a rundown of some of the hardiest handsets out there).
While that pillowed glass frontage does seem a little exposed, especially if you were to fumble the 15 Ultra face-down, it's clad in Xiaomi Shield Glass 2.0. The 14 Ultra sported its first-gen Shield Glass, which claimed to be 10x more drop resistant than the Gorilla Glass Victus on the 13 Ultra, while the 2.0 variant is supposedly 16x more resistant, compared to Victus. In theory, a drop on that 'All Round Liquid Display' shouldn't prove fatal.
Xiaomi hasn't eradicated Corning's presence from the Ultra outright, however, with Gorilla Glass 7i covering the camera array on the phone's back. Despite being as scratch resistant as the brand's top-tier Victus 2 glass, when paying Ultra prices, I'd have hoped for sapphire glass or something with even higher scratch resistance (even at the expense of drop durability), considering part of its job is ensuring camera clarity.
The main generational improvement to the viewing experience on the 15 Ultra is its higher peak brightness: an emissive 3,200-nit ceiling that outpaces all its mainstream rivals (the closest being the Super Actua display on the Pixel 9 Pro line, at 3,000-nits), only really falling short of Oppo's and OnePlus' latest flagships, which both claim to reach as high as 4,500-nits.
As with the 14 Ultra, the viewing experience here is unquestionably excellent. Out of the box, it serves up Full HD+ visuals and a dynamic refresh rate (between 1 and 120Hz), however, you have the option to crank the resolution up in the settings menu, to make the most of the phone's impressive 522ppi pixel density. You can also fix motion at 60Hz (for lower power consumption) or 120Hz (for more fluid viewing), and you can even force that higher refresh rate on an app-by-app basis.
Along with options for resolution and HDR upscaling, as well as motion smoothing and TÜV Rheinland-certified blue light eye protection, the 15 Ultra's display also makes the switch to an ultrasonic fingerprint sensor, which proves faster and more reliable than the previous optical solution, even when your hands are a little wet.
(Image credit: Future | Alex Walker-Todd)
Despite an asymmetrical down and forward-firing stereo speaker pair, the Xiaomi 15 Ultra outputs sound with clear separation and clarity through almost the entirety of its volume range.
At maximum volume, the stability of higher frequencies begins to waver, while bass is present throughout, but could be more prominent in the mix. Dolby Atmos support brings with it a set of EQ sliders (including presets) and there's effective spatial audio too.
Display & audio score: 4.5 / 5
Xiaomi 15 Ultra review: Software
(Image credit: Future | Alex Walker-Todd)
Launches on HyperOS 2.0 atop Android 15
New AI features include Interpreter and Reflection Removal
4 years of OS + 6 years of security updates
Last year marked a pretty notable shift for Xiaomi's mobile user experience. The company retired MIUI and replaced it with HyperOS, which although familiar on the surface, served up some notable quality-of-life improvements behind the scenes (it took up significantly less space on your device's storage, for example). It also served as the launchpad for their AI feature set.
Now, the Xiaomi 15 series arrives on HyperOS 2.0 (running atop Android 15). For the most part it adds an extra layer of visual polish, with the likes of the Artistic Lock Screens now able to support video, alongside subtle new animations throughout the UI that generally elevate the experience (even if some might be a little heavy-handed).
Better contrast and reworked UI elements across the Settings, Clock and Calendar apps, make them easier to use, as do a tweaked volume control layout and the ability to long-press on control panel entries – like brightness – to expand and access additional features (very iOS-like in its execution).
Frustratingly, Xiaomi insists on continuing to bury or completely hide some fundamental Android controls (such as Extra Dim) without explanation, but it does at least finally let you toggle Today's Recommendations off, which means there's less cruft within your home screen app folders.
HyperOS is a deeply customizable and capable user experience, provided you've got the stones to learn its nuances and forgive its inconsistencies.
Look familiar Apple Intelligence users? (Image credit: Future | Alex Walker-Todd)
There are new and improved AI tools spanning writing, image editing, and language across HyperOS 2.0, with Xiaomi's repetoire most closely mirroring experiences from the likes of OnePlus. Apple, Oppo, Samsung and Google have all leant a little harder into generative imagery on their latest devices, which isn't really part of the experience on the 15 Ultra, beyond image expansion and the ever-creepy AI portrait (check out our Xiaomi 14 review for a deep-dive on that).
The AI Writing toolset has been fleshed out, with summarization, proofreading, extension and tone alteration; all in a handy pop-up card that, once again, looks suspiciously like Apple Intelligence's interface. Like Samsung's Writing Assist, you can call on these tools essentially anywhere you enter text, which creates more opportunities to actually use them.
The translation app – AI Subtitle – has a well thought out and easy to use interface, allowing for conversational use with a speaker sitting either side of the phone, while the existing image editing tools (Expand, Erase, and Sky) have been joined by Enhance and Remove Reflections options (although the latter was next to useless, in testing).
Erase has also been bumped up to Erase Pro, which uses a larger model for improved results, however, unlike the base feature, it relies on an active internet connection to function. In fact, when disabling my data connection, practically none of the 15 Ultra's AI features worked offline, suggesting that the all rely on off-device processing to varying degrees (the exceptions being the base Erase, Remove Reflections and Sky image editing tools).
At the phone's Chinese launch, Xiaomi also showcased interconnectivity with iOS, iPadOS and MacOS devices, including Oppo Find N5-like screen mirroring and wireless file transfer, which is on track to come to global devices in the near future (as such, I haven't been able to test this feature).
The 15 Ultra's image editing toolset (Image credit: Future | Alex Walker-Todd)
Part of the price justification, when it comes to these top-shelf phones, is that they come with long-term support. Apple, Google and Samsung all offer a commitment to around seven years of operating system and security updates, so you know your phone will be supported for the entire time you use it, and also benefit from new functionality over time too.
Despite an improved six years' commitment to security updates with the 15 Ultra, Xiaomi has only promised four years of OS updates, which hurts the phone's value proposition, relative to some of the best phones already on the market.
Software score: 3.5 / 5
Xiaomi 15 Ultra review: Cameras
(Image credit: Future | Alex Walker-Todd)
50MP f/1.63, 1-inch Sony LYT-900 main sensor w/ OIS
The previous Ultra – with the same 1-inch main Sony sensor – in my opinion, captured shots as close as any phone has yet come to emulating what you might more readily expect from the best cameras.
Most of the best camera phones – the Pixels and Galaxys of the world – take technically excellent smartphone photos; replete with tone mapping and HDR processing, detail enhancement and face brightening. While the 15 Ultra has access to all these same tricks, however, it handles images very differently... more authentically.
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The 200MP telephoto can let in enough light for fast-motion macro shooting (Image credit: Future | Alex Walker-Todd)
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Leica 'Blue' monochrome filter (Image credit: Future | Alex Walker-Todd)
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Minimum amount of bokeh in Portrait mode (Image credit: Future | Alex Walker-Todd)
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Standard amount of bokeh in Portrait mode (Image credit: Future | Alex Walker-Todd)
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Maximum amount of bokeh in Portrait mode (note where edge detection falters around the whiskers) (Image credit: Future | Alex Walker-Todd)
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Macro mode (Image credit: Future | Alex Walker-Todd)
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Macro mode (Image credit: Future | Alex Walker-Todd)
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Night mode tends to over-correct on white balance, but otherwise impresses (Image credit: Future | Alex Walker-Todd)
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Accurate real-world lighting conditions in which the Night mode shot was taken (Image credit: Future | Alex Walker-Todd)
Xiaomi's processing isn't as technically savvy as, say, Google's and the camera system can be a little inconsistent – especially with attributes like white balance and edge detection (much like on the 14 Ultra) – but it doesn't shy away from contrast and shadow, which when twinned with the natural depth effect afforded to that 1-inch sensor, can help you capture truly arresting shots without really trying.
Add to that the Pro mode manual controls and baked-in Leica filters, and there's a lot you can do with that main snapper, without the need for post-capture editing. That lead 50MP sensor is just the start, of course.
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(Image credit: Future | Alex Walker-Todd)
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(Image credit: Future | Alex Walker-Todd)
The reason this phone's camera system looks so physically different to its predecessor's is because Xiaomi needed to make room for a huge new 1/1.4-inch telephoto sensor (up from 1/2.51-inches). The 200MP Samsung ISOCELL HP9 that Vivo put to work on its most recent flagship – the X200 Pro – now also finds a home on the 15 Ultra.
Here, it serves up an equivalent 100mm focal length, and helps build on the existing camera system's impressive versatility. That large size means it's able to take in far more light than your average periscopic telephoto sensor (Xiaomi claims 136% more than the 14 Ultra's equivalent), but it's also likely the reason why the 15 Ultra lost out on its predecessor's mechanical aperture; there just wasn't room.
As trade-offs go, it's a compromise I welcome, as this higher fidelity telephoto is far more practical across zoom, portrait and even macro shooting. Speaking of macro, one of the biggest limitations of such a large main sensor is its minimum focal range, which is why it's a relief that the automatic macro mode kicks in and switches to a pleasingly competent ultra-wide.
No longer being unable to stop down in particularly bright shooting scenarios may irk videographers, but at least the Photography Kit allows for ND filters and the like, even if that's more of a band-aid than a solution
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Leica Vibrant (Image credit: Future | Alex Walker-Todd)
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Leica Authentic (Image credit: Future | Alex Walker-Todd)
As well as filters, Leica's involvement expands to two shooting profiles: Leica Vibrant (the default on Xiaomi's phones) and the more muted Leica Authentic (see above), while some high quality filters can be activatated in-camera too (the monochromatic 'Blue' was a personal highlight).
Xiaomi made a big song and dance about the 14 Pro's video chops, even though stabilization at some resolutions was terrible at launch (later fixed via software updates). Thankfully, that doesn't appear to be a problem with the 15 Ultra's videography skills. You can switch between all the phone's rear sensors while recording at up to 4K/30fps, with options for 4K/120fps, and even 8K/30fps capture, if desired.
The 15 Ultra also joins an exclusive group, by being the only other phone besides the iPhone 15 Pro and iPhone 16 Pro lines to support ACES (Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences) Log video capture (alongside Dolby Vision recording); making it a powerful choice for serious videographers, especially those who prefer Android to iOS.
Camera score: 4.5 / 5
Xiaomi 15 Ultra review: Performance
(Image credit: Future | Alex Walker-Todd)
Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Elite SoC
LPDDR5X RAM & UFS 4.1 storage
Xiaomi HyperCore system management
As with the rest of 2025's Android flagship contingent so far, the 15 Ultra arrives running on Qualcomm's latest Snapdragon 8 Elite chipset; in most regions accompanied by 16GB of RAM and 512GB or 1TB of the fastest and most power efficient UFS 4.1 storage on the market (there is a 12GB RAM/256GB version that's trickier to come by).
Xiaomi says the chip serves up 45% better multi-core CPU performance (compared to the 14 Ultra), artificial benchmarking places on equal footing with the recent Honor Magic 7 Pro and the company even featured a slide during its Chinese launch, highlighting every aspect in which it trumps the iPhone 16 Pro Max; including gaming and networking performance.
(Image credit: Future | Alex Walker-Todd)
A new dual channel 'IceLoop' vapour chamber offers enhanced cooling, which in real-world testing ensured that even after an hour's gameplay on a demanding title like Zenless Zone Zero with cranked visual settings (i.e. 60fps instead of 30fps), the phone never rose past a slight warmth.
Game Turbo is also on-hand to prioritize gaming performance, while also silencing notifications and the like, although finding how to bring the app onto your home screen to manage installed games takes some doing (hint: it's hidden within Xiaomi's Security app, of all places).
As with every other phone that relies on the Snapdragon 8 Elite, it offers buckets of headroom, ensuring whatever phone it's in will feel fast and remain capable longer than most others in the long term. Xiaomi's latest HyperCore technology then sits on top, better managing resource allocation, so that opening and reopening apps is faster; meaning less time staring at those initial splash screens than before.
Performance score: 5 / 5
Xiaomi 15 Ultra review: Battery
(Image credit: Future | Alex Walker-Todd)
Larger 5,410mAh battery than predecessor
Up to 90W wired & 50W wireless charging
7 hours of screen-on time per charge
While Xiaomi hasn't disclosed why, as with the Honor Magic 7 Pro, the international version of the Xiaomi 15 Ultra packs in a smaller battery (5,410mAh), compared to the Chinese variant (6,000mAh). That said, 5,410mAh is still pretty capacious, and Xiaomi's Si-C Surge Battery tech offers up increased capacity, without adding addition bulk to the phone's design; Apple and Samsung should take notes.
True to the brand, fast charging is part of the equation here, with the same impressive 90W wired and 80W wireless charging support (just don't expect a charger in-box in Europe or the UK).
If you are able to source the correct adapter, at standard speeds the 15 Ultra refilled to 56% in 30 minutes and hit 100% after 67 minutes. If you dip into the phone's battery settings, however, you can enable Top Speed mode, which warns of more noticeable warmth when charging, in the pursuit of faster recharge speeds. When enabled, the phone hit 44% in 30 minutes and 100% in 50.
If you're the forgetful type, Top Speed mode might better serve you, otherwise the results, to me, suggest it's better to leave the phone in standard charging mode, which still should still prove quick enough for most users (and will likely prolong battery health).
While benchmarking using PCMark 3.0's battery test dished out an impressive score on par to the Ultra's most like-minded and similarly-capacious Si-C battery-toting rivals, real-world longevity underwhelmed at only 7 hours of use per charge. That equates to a day's use, but considering the battery tech, system improvements and capacity of the cell(s), I would have expected closer to the Magic 7 Pro, which has a marginally smaller battery but lasted 45% longer in testing.
Battery score: 4 / 5
Should you buy the Xiaomi 15 Ultra?
Buy it if...
You want one of the best camera phones today If you couldn't tell by the design, the Xiaomi 15 Ultra is all about the camera. While it's strong on all fronts, its camera is the prime reason to consider it.
You want a great multimedia experience The 15 Ultra's top-tier internals and crisp 2K OLED screen make it great for gaming and enjoying media.
Don't buy it if...
You want a long-lasting device While fast charging is superb, battery life is pretty middle of the road. As for long-term use, only four years of OS updates for a phone this expensive isn't great.
You like a clean, easy-to-use user experience HyperOS 2.0 is certainly more elegant and easier to use than previous iterations of Xiaomi's mobile interface, but it comes with a high learning curve and some truly illogical inconsistencies compared to other operating systems out there.
Xiaomi 15 Ultra review: Also consider
It's clear from the jump where the Xiaomi 15 Ultra's strengths lie, but there are numerous alternatives that offer something similar or excel in those areas where Xiaomi still needs to improve.
iPhone 16 Pro Max Sure, it's a fraction more expensive, but the top-tier iPhone of today shares in the 15 Ultra's emphasis on capturing pro-grade video, while the user experience is cleaner and will likely receive OS updates for longer.
Honor Magic 7 Pro Same chipset, same emphasis on photography, with impressive zoom abilities, plus longer-lasting battery life and longer OS update support for less money.
Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra A similar feature set, with a focus on AI, and longer software support render this Ultra a worthwhile alternative. It's also readily available in markets where the 15 Ultra isn't
Xiaomi sent me the 15 Ultra just ahead of its Chinese and international launch events. I used the phone as my daily driver over a couple of weeks; taking it to social events for camera testing, gaming and other general smartphone use; from smart home control to social media and web browsing.
Benchmarks were carried out in both Balanced and Performance modes, although most of the time Balanced mode results were actually high. As often happens, Xiaomi devices block access to servers for graphical benchmarking apps, so I was only able to quantify CPU performance, while graphical testing was anecdotal, based on gaming usage and the like.
Having reviewed smartphones for nearly 15 years, including numerous Xiaomi smartphones, as well as devices from the company's key competition, I felt equipped to review this flagship, assessing its strengths and abilities against the market it's competing in.
