I've really enjoyed following Steve Carell's career over the years. Whether it's his iconic role as Michael Scott on The Office or his much more serious performance as Alan Strauss in Hulu's The Patient, I've been consistently impressed by what he does. In HBO Max's Rooster, Carell plays Greg Russo. He's the author of a series of books following a main character called, you guessed it, Rooster. Russo had gained a fandom through that character even though he's not as successful himself, with painful emotions coming to the surface as he returns to the same arts college, Ludlow, where his wife left him 25 years ago.History repeats itself at this, frankly, cursed college. Russo's daughter, Katie, works there, and she's having her own relationship drama. Her husband Archie has left her for a student, with whom he was having an affair, and everybody knows about it. Archie is played by Ted Lasso's Phil Dunster, who perfectly encapsulates Archie's self-serving attitude. Much like Dunster's outstanding performance as Jamie Tartt inTed Lasso, though, he's layered and will find a way to charm you despite all of that. Despite his many, many flaws, it's not impossible to see why Katie married him in the first place. On his first day, Greg meets college president Walter Mann, played by the always wonderful John C. McGinley. If you liked him in Scrubs, you'll certainly enjoy him here too, as he plays quite the eccentric character with some very strong opinions about the college and the people in it. Every scene involving him is brilliantly awkward, and the cast is a real selling point here.Given the strained relationship between Katie and Greg, it's hard for him to comfort his daughter, but he does his best anyway. She immediately tries to embarrass him when he gatecrashes her lecture, and is critical of the fact that he's there to check up on her, even though he insists he's just there to guest lecture.Greg makes his disdain for Archie very clear from episode one, positioning himself as a caring father despite the rampant self-deprecation and awkwardness we often see from him. Scenes between Greg and Archie are among my favorites, and they are played very well by Carell and Dunster.But there's more to Rooster than just this, and Greg ends up getting into all sorts of unwelcome situations during his time at Ludlow, which was meant to be a simple guest lecturing gig, after all. These include an unfortunate appearance on the news, run-ins with local law enforcement, and criticisms from students about some of the narrative choices in his novel, especially the over-reliance on sex appeal. Not all of the topical jokes worked for me, but humor is subjective, so perhaps you'll enjoy those more than I did. It definitely segues into slapstick when it doesn't really need to.
Charly Clive and Phil Dunster play a couple whose broken marriage is the talk of the campus. (Image credit: HBO Max)
Outside of the comedy, though, the series does do serious moments well. Katie is terrible at emotional vulnerability, using sarcasm as a shield, and Greg doesn't quite know how to navigate that. He just isn't as cool and collected as Rooster, despite his efforts to emulate him. Greg ends up having a tequila-induced heart-to-heart with Dylan Shepard, a bubbly faculty member played by Danielle Deadwyle, where we learn more about his failed marriage, so the series is character-driven from the get-go. They clearly have chemistry too, making me keen to see how it unfolds over the next nine episodes.Rooster has all the ingredients for a fun weekend watch. With quick episodes that are easy to watch, the Sunday time slot is ideal for this show. Episodes are released weekly, and you can easily slot this into your streaming schedule if you want something light that still gives you plenty to think about.I did find the way Rooster was filmed a little jarring, but honestly, it didn't take away from the great performances and the important themes explored. It's a fun addition to HBO Max's library, showcasing Carell at his best, where he effortlessly blends humor and seriousness.
Rooster is available on HBO Max in the US and Australia, and Sky Comedy in the UK.
Project Hail Mary (PHM) is a movie I've been itching to see for some time. The second book penned by sci-fi author Andy Weir to be adapted for the big screen — the first being 2015's extremely well-received The Martian — PHM has all of the ingredients necessary to similarly be critical and commercially successful.Sometimes, though, said components — the cast and crew, production, and translating a story from page to screen, to name just three — don't gel as well as they should. Color me relieved and delighted, then, that Amazon's latest silver screen vehicle is not only an emotionally resonant and eye-popping visual experience, but also a near-perfect masterpiece that's a shoo-in for 2026's best movies list.
Save our stars
Ryan Gosling stars as Ryland Grace, an unassuming teacher sent on a mission to save our Sun (Image credit: Amazon MGM Studios)
A direct retelling of the nonlinear narrative in Weir's 2021 hard sci-fi novel namesake, Project Hail Mary introduces us to Ryland Grace (Ryan Gosling), a junior high school teacher and infamous former molecular biologist.Waking from a coma, a disoriented and amnesiac — and, after surveying his surroundings, understandably panic-stricken — Grace finds himself aboard a spaceship 12 light-years from Earth.
Project Hail Mary's overarching narrative is one built on hope, optimism, collaboration, and companionship
Eventually, Grace remembers why he's here: the Sun is dying. In fact, all but one of the galaxy's known stars — Tau Ceti — are waning at an incredibly rapid rate. Consequently, Grace has seemingly been sent on a one-way mission to discover the root cause of this cosmic phenomenon, learn why Tau Ceti isn't affected by it, and — potentially — find a cure. Fail, and the catastrophic ice age will engulf our world in approximately 30 Earth years. No pressure, then.
Grace is hired by European Space Agency head Eva Stratt (Sandra Huller, right) for the titular mission (Image credit: Amazon MGM Studios)
At a time when the real world seems bleak, PHM's dystopian premise might be the last thing we need right now — and yet, its overarching narrative is one built on hope, optimism, collaboration, and companionship.Sure, its first act doesn't indicate that'll be the case. Indeed, it plays out like a survival thriller as Grace resigns himself to his fate — that being, getting drunk and living out his days until his supplies run out — rather than embrace his status as Earth's unlikely hero.Expository flashbacks, which shed more light on the cosmic mystery at large, as well as Grace's personality, backstory, and role in trying to solve said enigma, also paint a vivid picture ofPHM's disaster movie sensibilities, and the supposedly insurmountable task facing our overwhelmed and lonesome protagonist.
With no prior astronaut experience, Grace essentially spends the first act lost in space (Image credit: Amazon MGM Studios)
As I alluded to, however, one of 2026's most exciting new movies isn't an emotionally cold or haunting sci-fi tale like Moon or another Gosling-led film in Blade Runner 2049, but rather a surprisingly funny one, especially once Project Hail Mary becomes a buddy adventure (more on this later). The integration of humor won't surprise fans of Weir's works and/or anyone who's seen The Martian, which is similarly multi-genre to PHM in its make-up. The same can be said of directing duo Phil Lord and Chris Miller's previous works (The LEGO Movie, 21 Jump Street), which have surprising emotional depth amid their riotously funny moments.
Gosling is given ample opportunity to showcase his aptitude for comedy
Still, Project Hail Mary highlights Gosling's impeccable comedic timing — a talent that, until his performances in recent flicks including 2024 megahit Barbie and 2025 action-comedy The Fall Guy, was severely underutilized. Thankfully, Gosling is given ample opportunity to showcase his aptitude for comedy in chucklesome scenes laced with physical, deadpan, situational, and miscommunication-based humor. Needless to say, Gosling is as much a tour de force in PHM's quieter and dramatic moments as its amusing and action-oriented ones. Films of this emotional magnitude and multi-tonality require a certain caliber of actor to anchor them — without one, movies can easily fall apart. But, with its lead star firing on all cylinders, Project Hail Mary has enough emotional thrust to catapult it into the stratosphere.
A Rocky road trip
Rocky is the newest addition to the throng of adorable aliens we've seen on the big screen (Image credit: Amazon MGM Studios)
As any experienced vehicle operator will say, though, you can never have enough fuel in the tank — and, from an emotive perspective, that's where Gosling's adorable alien co-star comes into play.Indeed, as Project Hail Mary's first trailer and subsequent teasers showed, Grace soon learns he isn't the only one trying to crack the case. Indeed, Rocky (voiced by puppet designer/performer James Ortiz), an eyeless, arachnid-like extraterrestrial, is on the same mission to save the star that its home world, Erid, orbits.
Rocky helps to bring out the best in his new human companion (Image credit: Amazon MGM Studios)
Rocky doesn't appear until the start of the film's second act. Once he does, though, PHM's story subtly shifts from an introspective solo flick to an intimate two-hander as an unlikely yet deeply warm friendship — one that unmistakably becomes the film's emotional core — forms between Grace and his instantaneously lovable new bestie.
Grace and Rocky's bromance is one that evokes the very best on-screen human-alien friendships
A far cry from the uninspiring bond between Jakub Procházka and Hanuš in Netflix's 2024 sci-fi flick Spaceman, Grace and Rocky's bromance is one that evokes the very best on-screen human-alien friendships. Think E.T. and Elliot in E.T: The Extraterrestrial, Han Solo and Chewbacca in Star Wars, and Lilo & Stitch in their eponymous animated and live-action films, and you'll get a sense of how integral Grace and Rocky's dynamic is to Project Hail Mary's entertaining yet perilous plot.
Project Hail Mary is a feast for the eyes (Image credit: Amazon MGM Studios)
And fraught with danger it most certainly is. Eye-bulgingly beautiful and electrifyingly euphonious as PHM is — believe me, you'll want to see this in IMAX or on the biggest Dolby Atmos-supported screen you can — our unlikely heroes' quest is terrifyingly treacherous.
There won't be many films this year that'll restore your faith in humanity like Project Hail Mary will
Nowhere is this more apparent in Project Hail Mary's tentpole set-piece, which sees Grace and Rocky embark on a high-stakes and life-threatening mission that'll go a long way to solving their celestial conundrum. It's an intense, nail-biting action sequence that, combined with Greig Fraser's (Dune, The Batman) visually powerful cinematography and Daniel Pemberton's (the Spider-Verse movies) heart-pounding, otherworldly score, gripped me from start to finish. I'm not afraid to admit that the final 45 minutes, which include the aforementioned extended scene, had me choked up on more than one occasion, too. No spoilers, but if you welled up or cried watching poignant sci-fi movies like Interstellar and The Iron Giant, or even feel-good genre fare like The Martian, I'd bring some tissues with you.
My verdict
It's the sign of a spectacular movie when you never glance at your watch, so it won't shock you that I consider Project Hail Mary to not only be a spellbinding genre epic, but also a contender — even at this early stage — to be one of the best films of the year.Okay, the story occasionally strays into predictable territory, but that's the only fault I found with what I expect to be the latest addition to the sci-fi movie pantheon. An edge-of-your-seat, spacefaring comedy-drama that'll resonate through its 'ordinary individuals doing extraordinary things' narrative lens, there won't be many films this year that'll restore your faith in humanity like PHM will. In the words of Rocky himself, go see this "amaze, amaze, amaze" movie as soon as you can.
Project Hail Mary arrives in theaters on March 19 (UK and Australia) and March 20 (US and everywhere else).
The MacBook Neo is one of the most interesting releases from Apple in a long time, and it comes at an important moment. Thanks to a global memory shortage, a tariffs-loving president in the White House, and other global conditions, consumer electronics are becoming ever more expensive, just as the cost of living has also risen, which means consumers have less money to spend on things like a new laptop.
Apple is generally regarded as a company that sells high-end and expensive devices, which isn’t entirely fair, as I think the Mac mini (M4) is one of the best-value products in the computing space. The MacBook Neo is interesting, as Apple is entering the budget and midrange laptop market for the first time. This is a market that's dominated by cheap Chromebooks and affordable Windows 11 laptops, and while Apple is joining the fray with the MacBook Neo, it’s doing so on its own terms.
That means, as the company is keen to emphasise, that while the MacBook Neo is a more affordable MacBook, it is in no way a cheap, pared-back or limited MacBook.
(Image credit: Future)
You’re still getting a solid and great-looking laptop made out of aluminum (and now in four new colors, harking back to the more fun days when Apple launched brightly-colored Macs), and a bright and vibrant screen with a retina resolution of 2408 x 1506, which is higher (and therefore sharper and more detailed) than the 1080p screens laptops at this price usually sport.
Audio from the built-in speakers is also excellent, the 1080p webcam means video calls look great, and perhaps best of all, the MacBook Neo runs the full version of macOS, and you can run pretty much any Mac app on it.
While its 8GB of unified memory means you won't see the best performance when running multiple apps at once, overall I had no issues at all running various apps for day-to-day tasks, making it ideal for students in particular.
Best of all is the price: $599 / £599 / AU$899. You’re going to be hard-pushed to find a Windows laptop or Chromebook around this price that can match the build quality and performance of the MacBook Neo; and if you're a student, you can get a further discount that brings it down to just $499 / £499 / AU$749. At that price, it really is a no-brainer.
Of course, there are compromises. As well as the limited amount of memory, the MacBook Neo doesn’t come with a backlight behind the keyboard, so finding the right keys in darker environments can be an issue, and the two USB-C ports use older and slower USB 3 and USB 2 tech.
Despite those compromises, Apple has made easily the best budget laptop you can buy in 2026. While it’s not the cheapest laptop out there, it’s well worth paying a little extra to get such a slick and accomplished laptop at this price. Windows 11 laptop and Chromebook makers have been put on notice, and they’ll need to up their games to match, let alone surpass, the MacBook Neo.
Apple MacBook Neo: Price & release date
Starts at $599 / £599 / AU$899
Went on sale March 11
The biggest selling point of the MacBook Neo is its price, with Apple seemingly pulling out all the stops to keep the price as low as possible.
With a starting price of just $599 / £599 / AU$899 (and a further $100 / £100 / AU$150 discount for education users), this is one of the cheapest Macs Apple has ever made. Sure, the Mac mini (M4) is more powerful, and launched at the same price, but it doesn’t come with a screen, mouse or keyboard, so for sheer out-of-the-box value for money, the MacBook Neo now reigns supreme.
For that starting price you get a 13-inch Liquid Retina display, 8GB of unified memory and a 256GB SSD. The Neo is powered by the Apple A18 Pro chip, with a 6-core CPU and 5-core GPU. The A18 Pro debuted in 2024 in the iPhone 16 Pro, and the fact that the MacBook Neo is powered by an older mobile chip, rather than one of the M-series chips usually found in Macs, is one of the ways Apple has kept the overall price of the MacBook Neo down.
Customization options for the hardware are pretty limited as well, with just the option to double the storage to 512GB for an extra $100 / £100 / AU$200. Considering the current price of storage, this isn’t an obscene amount to pay for an extra 256GB of the stuff — and by going for the larger storage option you also get a Touch ID button on the keyboard that allows you to log in to macOS, pay for things via Apple Pay and more using your fingerprint. This is not an option with the base model of the MacBook Neo.
(Image credit: Future)
The $599 / £599 / AU$899 starting price firmly pits the MacBook Neo against the best budget laptops, such as the HP Chromebook Plus 15.6-inch and Acer Aspire Go 15 — the first time in a long, long, time that I can say that about a MacBook, and Apple’s build and design quality easily surpasses almost every budget laptop or Chromebook at this price point.
The arrival of the MacBook Neo also means the MacBook Air is no longer the cheapest MacBook model, which makes the new, more expensive, price of the just-announced MacBook Air (M5), which now starts at $1,099 / £1,099 / AU$1,799, a slightly less bitter pill to swallow. Slightly.
While I love the fact that you can now get a MacBook for $599 / £599 / AU$899, the value proposition of the Neo lives or dies on how many compromises Apple has had to make to keep the price low.
One last thing to note here is that in the UK and EU, the MacBook Neo does not come with a charger, just a USB-C cable, as is the case with the M5 MacBook Pro from last year and the Samsung Galaxy Book6 Ultra. It’s likely we’ll see an increasing number of laptops in the UK and EU not ship with chargers in a bid to reduce e-waste — if you don't already have a USB-C charger you’ll need to buy one.
USB 3 (USB-C) port, USB 2 (USB-C) port, 3.5mm audio jack
USB 3 (USB-C) port, USB 2 (USB-C) port, 3.5mm audio jack
Wireless:
Wi-Fi 6E / Bluetooth 6
Wi-Fi 6E / Bluetooth 6
Weight:
2.7lbs (1.23kg)
2.7lbs (1.23kg)
Dimensions:
0.50 x 11.71 x 8.12 inches (1.27 x 29.75 x 20.64cm)
0.50 x 11.71 x 8.12 inches (1.27 x 29.75 x 20.64cm)
Apple MacBook Neo: Design
Available in four colors
No backlit keyboard
USB 2 and USB 3 ports
Apple has done an excellent job of ensuring that, despite its lower price, the MacBook Neo retains the look, feel and build quality that we’ve come to expect from Apple devices; and when it comes to design, the MacBook Neo blows pretty much all of the competition at this price point out of the water.
Thanks to its aluminum build the MacBook Neo feels solid, robust and impressively premium. It comes in four vibrant colors, and the review sample Apple sent me is the Citrus version, which is a nice bright-looking green. I also had the chance to check out the other colors at the launch event: Silver is the iconic Mac color, Blush is a lovely pinkish shade and Indigo is a dark blue.
As with the iMac redesign a few years ago, it’s great to see Apple return to releasing fun and colorful Macs, and while the MacBook Neo variants look bright, there’s a metallic sheen to them which means they don’t resemble toys.
(Image credit: Future)
The aluminum chassis means the MacBook Neo isn’t quite as light as you might imagine. At 2.7 pounds (1.23kg) it weighs the same as the MacBook Air, and while that’s certainly not a hefty laptop (hence the ‘Air’ moniker), students and kids lugging the MacBook Neo around might notice the weight. It’s also thicker than the MacBook Air.
The MacBook Neo’s Magic Keyboard is slightly colored to match the hue of the laptop, which, as Apple says, creates “a cohesive design aesthetic and [makes] MacBook Neo the most colorful MacBook yet.”
Speaking of the keyboard, it’s here where one of the big differences between the two models of the MacBook Neo can be found. If you go for the more expensive model with 512GB storage you also get a Touch ID button for signing into macOS using your fingerprint. It’s a shame that this is limited to the pricier model, as I find Touch ID to be really convenient — you can also use it to approve installations, insert passwords and make payments — and there are plenty of budget laptops out there that support biometric security.
The base model instead comes with a ‘lock’ button that you can press and hold to lock the MacBook Neo, which is far less useful.
While the keyboard of the MacBook Neo feels as comfortable to use and responsive as the Magic Keyboards on more expensive Macs, it does lack a very important feature: backlighting.
(Image credit: Future)
On other MacBooks, the keyboard backlights illuminate the letter or icon of each key, making them easy to see in low-light conditions. Without backlighting, typing can be more difficult if you’re not in a suitably lit environment, even if, like me, you’re a proficient typer who doesn’t usually need to look at the keyboard.
It’s arguably the biggest sacrifice Apple has made in order to keep the MacBook Neo’s price as low as possible, and while it's not a deal breaker, it’s definitely worth noting, and in dark and poorly lit classrooms and lecture halls the lack of backlighting could become an issue.
Along the left-hand side of the MacBook Neo are two USB-C ports, which are also used to charge the laptop (there’s no fancy magnetic MagSafe 3 port here). While the two USB-C ports are indistinguishable from each other, or from the USB-C ports found on other MacBooks, it’s important to note that both use different, and older, tech.
The USB port nearest the back of the MacBook Neo uses USB 3, which maxes out at 10Gb/s. For comparison, the new MacBook Air M5 comes with Thunderbolt 4 ports, which can handle up to 40Gb/s, and the most recent MacBook Pros with M5 Pro and M5 Max up that tech to Thunderbolt 5, which can handle 120GB/s.
So, while the USB 3 port on the MacBook Neo can handle modern peripherals (such as mice and keyboards), moving large files to and from an external hard drive will be noticeably slower than on many other modern laptops. You can at least plug in a USB-C monitor and use it as a second screen, with support for 4K and 60fps.
The second USB-C port uses the even older USB 2 interface, which limits speeds to just 60MB/s, which is far slower, and only really appropriate for wired keyboards and mice.
This is another big indicator of the MacBook Neo’s (relatively) low price, and while I can understand that Apple needed to make some sacrifices, it could have handled this a bit more elegantly. For a start, having two seemingly identical ports that use very different technology could cause confusion — you might wonder why your USB memory stick is suddenly very slow, or why a peripheral isn’t working correctly if you connect them via the wrong port.
(Image credit: Future)
Also, while using USB 3 technology is an understandable cost-cutting measure (Apple is likely banking on most people not noticing the low speeds compared to more modern USB technology), including USB 2 in a laptop in 2026 feels close to insulting, no matter how cheap the device is.
To be fair to Apple, the rest of the design of the MacBook Neo is free from those kind of compromises. As I’ve mentioned, the aluminum body makes it look and feel far more premium than pretty much any other laptop at this price point, and the screen is another highlight. At 13 inches, and with a resolution of 2408 x 1506, the display might not be the biggest or sharpest screen in Apple’s lineup, but on a laptop in this price range it’s a fantastic addition, considering that most Windows 11 and Chromebook rivals at this price will be limited to 1080p or even lower. The 13-inch screen also helps to make the MacBook Neo nicely portable, especially for kids and students. Perhaps the best thing about the Neo’s display is its brightness — it's able to hit the same 500 nits of peak brightness as the screen on the MacBook Air.
For anyone who's used a budget laptop and been disappointed by the dim or washed-out image quality, the MacBook Neo’s screen is impressively bright and vivid, and with support for one billion colors (and that higher-than-usual resolution), the MacBook Neo easily has one of the best, if not the best, displays on an affordable laptop — though, Apple being Apple, it’s not a touchscreen.
Design: 4/5
Apple MacBook Neo: Performance
Uses the same A18 Pro chip that powered the iPhone 16 Pro
Can run macOS apps
8GB of memory is a concern
The MacBook Neo is one of Apple’s most interesting releases in years, and while it uses a chip built by Apple, unlike the other modern MacBooks it’s not an M-class chip; instead it's the A18 Pro, which originally appeared in the iPhone 16 Pro.
Putting a smartphone chip into a laptop might seem odd, but the logic is sound. For a start, Apple has been making mobile chips for a lot longer than it’s been making computing chips (by around 10 years), and the mobile chips it makes these days, especially for its high-end Pro iPhones, are impressively powerful — and you could argue that a powerful mobile chip like the A18 Pro is more capable than a weak laptop chip like those found in many budget devices.
By going with an older iPhone chip, Apple is able to keep the price of the MacBook Neo lower without impacting the performance too much.
(Image credit: Future)
Apple MacBook Neo: Benchmarks
Here's how the Apple MacBook Neo performed in our suite of industry-standard benchmarks and game tests. Geekbench 6.6: Single - 3,535 Multi - 8,920 Blackmagic Disk Speed Test: Read: 1,585 MB/s Write: 1,440 MB/s
So why not use an older computer chip like the M1? As Apple explained to me, the A18 Pro features a 16-core Neural Engine that can handle on-device AI features, including Apple’s much-hyped Apple Intelligence, which is baked into macOS. The M1 chip, which debuted with the MacBook Air in 2020, isn’t able to handle those tasks as well – and the A18 also uses faster memory. So, despite my initial reservations about Apple using a mobile chip for the MacBook Neo, it’s actually quite a shrewd move.
As the A18 Pro is also a 64-bit Arm-based chip, you don’t have to worry about only being able to run iPhone apps on the MacBook Neo. Instead, you can run any Mac app that can run on modern MacBooks.
macOS itself runs well on the Neo, and while it doesn’t feel quite as snappy as when I’m using my MacBook Pro, considering the price difference I was impressed. Because of the less powerful hardware in the MacBook Neo, for the best results it’s worth sticking to the default apps as much as possible. So, rather than loading up Ableton Live 12 and launching a project full of various sounds and instruments, I stuck to the pre-installed Garage Band instead; while it’s a more basic music-making application, it’s still got plenty of great features, and it ran without an issue on the MacBook Neo. Other default apps, such as Keynote, used for presentations, also ran well.
If you want to try more intensive apps you certainly can. As I mentioned earlier, despite running on an iPhone chip, the MacBook Neo can run any Mac app — I even installed Steam, which requires Rosetta to run on non-Intel hardware. You get the same macOS experience as you’d get on the similarly priced Mac mini, as well as on ultra-expensive MacBook Pros or the Mac Studio.
(Image credit: Future)
So, there are no limits as there are with ChromeOS on Chromebooks, where you can only run limited Android apps, or a relatively small selection of Chrome apps. Some budget laptops also come with ‘Windows 11 in S mode’ – a typically terrible Microsoft name, and which is essentially a locked-down version of Windows 11 that can only run apps bought or downloaded through the Microsoft Store, and on which you’re stuck with using Edge as the default browser.
The MacBook Neo suffers from none of these limitations, so in theory you’ll be able to run any app that you could run on a more expensive Mac. This makes the Neo a far more versatile device than a Chromebook or Windows 11 S laptop, and I’d also argue that it’s more useful than the iPad Pro, which despite being far more powerful (and which uses the latest Apple M5 chip), can only run iPadOS apps, rather than full Mac applications.
You can also use your iPhone or iPad with the MacBook Neo, in the same way you can with more expensive MacBooks. So, you can mirror the screen of your iPhone, drag and drop files, make calls and messages, share the clipboard, and use an iPad as a second screen. I paired the MacBook Neo up with the latest M5-powered iPad Pro (an unlikely pairing, I’ll admit, given the price difference between them), and used the iPad Pro as a second monitor, and it worked brilliantly.
So I have to give Apple major props when it comes to ensuring that users of the MacBook Neo do not get a compromised or limited macOS experience — you enjoy the same experience that other Mac owners do, and that’s great to see on a more affordable device.
The only limits, then, are those of the MacBook Neo’s hardware itself, so while you could fire up Blender and work on complex 3D scenes, the Neo is going to struggle, so you'll need to keep your expectations in check.
While I was pleasantly surprised by the performance of the A18 Pro chip, I do worry about the 8GB of unified memory, which could limit how future-proof the MacBook Neo will be.
Due to the global memory shortage, which is raising the price of memory, it was an inevitability that the Neo would come with a limited amount in order to help keep the overall price down — and I was actually relieved that we got 8GB rather than 4GB, which some Chromebooks and even some budget Windows 11 laptops still come with.
However, 8GB of system memory doesn’t go very far these days, and there’s no option to upgrade to a MacBook Neo model with more — and you certainly can’t easily open up the laptop and install more memory yourself.
With my MacBook Neo running Safari, Keynote, Garage Band and downloading a game through Steam, around 6.48–7GB of memory was being used at once — that's pretty darn close to the 8GB limit. Once you max out the MacBook Neo’s memory, as with any laptop, things start slowing down considerably.
(Image credit: Future)
The MacBook Neo, like other modern Macs, uses unified memory, which means that 8GB of memory is shared between the system and graphics, so loading up more graphically-intensive tasks puts even more pressure on the memory.
If you’re going to be using a laptop for graphically intensive workloads, or you like to multitask and switch between numerous apps, you’d be much better off investing in the MacBook Air (M5) instead, the base configuration of which comes with 16GB of unified memory.
Again, the memory limits of the MacBook Neo can be avoided by keeping in mind what the MacBook Neo has been designed for, and what it hasn’t. Sticking to more basic apps, and only having a few of them open at once, will ensure you have a smooth and enjoyable experience.
If you’re not prepared to do that, then the MacBook Neo simply isn’t for you — but good luck finding at laptop at this price that will be able to keep up with your ambitions.
The MacBook Neo can also play games, though again you’ll need to keep your expectations in check. However, I got it to run Cyberpunk2077 at a perfectly playable 30fps (frames per second) using the ‘For this Mac’ preset. Usually a stunning-looking game, on the MacBook Neo it wasn’t quite as impressive due to most graphical presets being set to ‘low’, or turned off entirely (such as advanced ray tracing lighting effects); but the fact that it was playable at all on a 13-inch laptop costing $599 was very impressive. You can also play iPhone and iPad games, and those are much better suited to the MacBook Neo’s hardware.
(Image credit: Future)
Overall, the performance of the MacBook Neo is very impressive for the price It excels at day-to-day tasks, and is flexible enough for you to run most Mac apps without an issue — but if you want a productivity powerhouse, look elsewhere.
One last thing to note here is that, like the MacBook Air, the MacBook Neo has a fanless design, which means it’s practically silent when in use — another big difference from budget Windows 11 laptops, which often get noisy when the fans whirr into life.
Performance: 4/5
Apple MacBook Neo: Battery life
Apple claims up to 16 hours of video streaming
11 hours of wireless web browsing
Hit 13 and a half hours in our tests
The MacBook Neo’s A18 Pro chip is an efficient bit of silicon, which isn’t surprising as it was designed to power a smartphone, and Apple promises up to 16 hours of video streaming on a single charge — that's two hours less than what it promises for the MacBook Air, but still an ambitious target.
In Future's battery life tests it managed to last 13 and a half hours before shutting down, which is more than enough for an entire work or school day, though there are Chromebooks out there that can go for a lot longer.
This makes it a great laptop for students who don’t want to have to hunt for a power socket between lessons, and charging the MacBook Neo is fast using the 20W power adapter that’s included in the box (unless you’re in the UK or EU, in which case you don’t get an adapter).
Battery: 4/5
Should I buy the Apple MacBook Neo?
Apple MacBook Neo scorecard
Attribute
Notes
Score
Price
The MacBook Neo offers exceptional value for money, especially if you're able to take advantage of the $100 / £100 student discount.
5/5
Design
It looks and feels a lot more premium than most laptops at this price, and its display is similarly impressive. The lack of a keyboard backlight and slow USB ports are a shame, however.
4/5
Performance
You get the full-fat macOS experience here, and day-to-day tasks pose no trouble at all — but the 8GB of memory means multitasking is less smooth.
4/5
Battery life
16 hours promised, and 13 and a half in our tests is more than enough for going a whole work or school day without needing a charge.
4/5
Buy it if…
You want an affordable laptop These days, finding a laptop under $600 that’s worth buying is extremely difficult, but the MacBook Neo makes it easy — this is a brilliant laptop for the price.View Deal
You want to get into the Mac ecosystem Many people with iPhones or iPads don’t have a MacBook, and the Neo’s low price means this is a brilliant choice for your first Mac.View Deal
You're a student I really don’t think I can recommend any laptop over the MacBook Neo for students. It’s solidly built, has a long battery life, and performs well, and with the student discount offered by Apple it’s even better value for money.View Deal
Don’t buy it if…
You’re a creative professional The MacBook Neo is aimed squarely at students, small-business owners, and regular folk. If you need a laptop for some heavy-duty creative work, get a MacBook Pro instead.View Deal
You want to stick with Windows 11 If you really don’t want to use macOS, then there are some very good Windows 11 alternatives, but none at this price feel quite as good as the MacBook Neo.View Deal
How I tested the MacBook Neo
I used it for almost a week
I ran various apps
I used it alongside an iPad Pro and other Macs
After seeing the MacBook Neo at Apple’s launch event I was given a unit to thoroughly test. I’ve been using the laptop every day during my review period, using it for a variety of day-to-day tasks such as document creation and browsing the internet.
I also used various apps, including Garage Band, to push the MacBook Neo, and played a bit of Cyberpunk 2077. I also linked the MacBook Neo up to an iPad Pro and my Mac Studio to test out how the MacBook integrates with other Apple products.
I’ve reviewed almost every modern MacBook during my time at TechRadar, as well as other Macs and iPads, plus plenty of Chromebooks and Windows 11 laptops as well, and I've used this experience to help me judge whether or not the MacBook Neo is worth buying for different kinds of user depending on their requirements.
Recently, one of my esteemed colleagues shared a brand new term with me: “friction-maxxing”. The term – coined by columnist Kathryn Jezer-Morton – concerns the practice of rejecting modern digital conveniences, and building tolerance for discomfort while resisting the temptations of technological ease. I assure you, all of this is relevant to my verdict on the retro-feel Sennheiser CX-80U wired earbuds — just stay with me a little longer.So, all of this friction-maxxing talk got me thinking about tech and its role in our lives. Previously, we’d head to a Blockbuster or a local library to hunt down a movie we want to see, whereas we now bear witness to an unending wall of films on Netflix. Once we would have gone to a record store or entertainment outlet, and purchased a new vinyl pressing or CD, but now we just stream tunes via Spotify. And we used to queue up outside video game stores eagerly awaiting a new release, while now, you can pre-order a title from a digital store instantaneously.We’ve taken so many inconveniences away, but has it come at the expense of the human experiences that stick with us forever? Maybe. But all is not lost. We can still bring some friction back into our lives. For instance, Sennheiser is here, and it’s plugging the wires back into your earbuds, and transporting you away from the ultra-convenient Bluetooth earbuds that dominate today’s market. Yes, I present to you, the Sennheiser CX 80U – a budget-friendly pair of USB-C in-ear headphones, aiming to compete with the best wired earbuds in their price bracket.The Sennheiser CX 80U are a USB-C adaption of 2021’s Sennheiser CX 80S – essentially the same buds, but ones that use a 3.5mm connector. Like the CX 80S, Sennheiser’s new earbuds use 9.7mm dynamic drivers, with a frequency range of 17Hz-20kHz. The result? Clear full range sound, with powerful bass, clean mids, and vibrant treble. Given that they’re on sale for less than $40 / £35, I was really impressed with the sonic capabilities of these buds and, after two weeks of testing, I’d argue that they’re among the best I’ve tried in the budget category.When I tuned into Timeless by Shinchiro Yokota, I was treated to full-sounding, impactful bass and exciting yet controlled percussion in the treble range. Piano and vocal chops came through with plenty of clarity in the mids too, and as the track built, the individual layers never got muddied or convoluted. I was especially pleased with the sense of space that treble sounds have. Highs often sound as if they’re operating in a well-defined pocket, giving them plenty of room to express themselves. For me, this created a great sense of immersion in my tunes, something that many budget rivals fail to offer. Even at peak volumes, the CX 80U’s treble never sounded harsh or tinny, and solid dynamics were maintained at all times.As a regular user of the Sennheiser IE 200, I like the way that Sennheiser approaches the low-end on its more budget-friendly products. It never feels like bass is bloated or over-emphasized for an attention grabbing, but unbalanced sound. Instead, products like the IE 200 favor an agile, clear interpretation of low-end sounds – a punchy sound, rather than an untamed one. And it’s a very similar story on the CX 80U.These wired buds offer responsive, clean bass that grabs your attention without spoiling the party for sounds in the mid and treble ranges. For instance, when I tuned into Fascinator by Max Dean, although the sub-bass was a little subdued, mid-bass sounds were rapid and full-sounding, never sounding lethargic or ‘boomy’. It would be rude not to give the mids a bit of airtime too, so let’s discuss them for a bit. Now, I’ll be upfront, I don’t think you’re getting the most nuanced or detail-oriented mids around with these earbuds. However, they certainly sound clear, and well balanced and very robust for buds in this price-range.For instance, when I listened to Ventura Highway by America, acoustic guitars in the intro came through with beautiful tonal accuracy, and sounded surprisingly expressive too. But as vocals entered the mix, I couldn’t help but realize that they didn’t sound perfectly separated from those guitars, and lacked the definition in the mix supplied by pricier rivals. This really is a nitpick, though. These budget-friendly buds sound absolutely fantastic, and I’d never expect them to compete with $100 / £100 models.
(Image credit: Future)
I’ve spoken about sound pretty extensively now, so let’s talk about something else that will affect your enjoyment of these buds – their comfort. Now, I have to say that I found the CX 80U to feel very pleasant in-ear. I happily engaged in multi-hour listening sessions, and never experienced discomfort or irritation. For reference, I used the medium-sized eartips, although small and large alternatives are included in the box, helping you to find your perfect fit.And getting that ideal seal will be pretty important if you want to enjoy the CX 80U at their best. With the right fit, I didn’t only unlock high-level comfort, but surprisingly strong passive noise isolation. When people were chattering away in my office, I genuinely couldn’t hear a word they were saying at around 70% listening volume. On top of that, typing sounds and doors closing barely broke through at all.That’s pretty amazing when you consider that the CX 80U don’t use fancy foam eartips or any particularly advanced technologies to keep noise out. Sure, they won’t stop you from hearing surrounding traffic or the rumble of a jet engine if you’re taking a flight, but they’ll still dampen surrounding clamors nicely, and that in itself is a major plus.Sennheiser’s in-ears are well designed in just about every other way too. For instance, I love their classy look, which is marked by rounded buds, attractive silver details, and slim wires. There’s an in-line controller here too, which isn’t too close to the face or too far down, and is attached to the right bud, so you know which side is which.But unfortunately, the controller seems to house just about every issue I have with the Sennheiser CX 80U – even though my critiques are few and far between. First of all, I was puzzled by the lack of volume controls. There’s a single button that can be used to pause or play tracks or take calls, but that’s all. That meant that whenever I wanted to change volume, I had to pull my phone out – not ideal when you’re on the go.My second point of criticism – which is admittedly pretty minor – concerns the controller’s built-in mic. I tried recording a voice note, and realized that there was noticeable background static in the recording throughout. My voice was decently clear, in fairness, and the mic isn’t bad overall, but it won’t provide the best call quality around.But that’s about where my complaints end. Sure, it would be nice if the CX 80U had an IPX4 rating for some protection against raindrops, for instance, but it’s pretty common for buds in this price range to leave waterproofing out. Otherwise, I have nothing but good things to say about the Sennheiser CX 80U. They sound spectacular for their sub-$40 / £35 price-tag, they’ve got a classy look, and their adoption of USB-C makes them a great fit for modern smartphones and laptops. If you want to bring some friction back into your life with a budget-friendly pair of wired buds, the CX 80U would be my top recommendation.
(Image credit: Future)
Sennheiser CX 80U review: price and release date
$39.95 / £34.99 (about AU$57)
Launched in January 2026
The Sennheiser CX 80U were announced in January 2026, alongside the Sennheiser HD 400U USB-C wired headphones. They have a list price of $39.95 / £34.99 (about AU$57), planting them firmly in the budget category. They’re available in a single black and silver colorway.
Sennheiser CX 80U review: specs
Drivers
9.7mm dynamic
Weight
0.5oz / 15g
Frequency range
17Hz-20kHz
Waterproofing
Not stated
Connectivity
USB-C
(Image credit: Future)
Should I buy the Sennheiser CX 80U?
Attributes
Notes
Rating
Features
Surprisingly good noise isolation, mic is just OK, and controller could use volume buttons.
3.5/5
Sound quality
Clean, agile bass, clear mids, expressive treble – very solid detail for the price.
4.5/5
Design
Classy look, impressive build quality, no waterproofing.
4.5/5
Value
Very cheap and sound more premium than you’d expect – you can’t ask for much more.
5/5
Buy them if...
You want good sound at a low cost The Sennheiser CX 80U are some of the best-sounding wired earbuds I’ve tested in their price category, offering powerful bass, clear mids, and expressive treble. For less than $40 / £35, they really are worth every penny.
You’ve got an eye (and an ear) for detail For the price you pay, the Sennheiser CX 80U look seriously classy. Their metallic details and rounded buds make them very easy on the eye, and their comfortable fit ensures that they’re strong performers in the design category.
Don't buy them if...
You want ultimate convenience As much as I loved using the Sennheiser CX 80U, I wouldn’t say they were the most convenient buds I’ve tested. The main reason for that was their lack of volume adjustment buttons on the controller. This would have made using them on the go a lot easier, as I had to take my phone from my pocket to crank the volume up (or dial it down) every time.
You need your buds to be waterproof There’s no mention of a waterproof rating for these wired buds, which is pretty common for Sennheiser audio gear. If you want splash-resistant in-ears, I’d recommend trying out the Skullcandy Set USB-C.
Sennheiser CX 80U review: also consider
Sennheiser CX 80U
SoundMagic E80D
Apple EarPods USB-C
Price
$39.95 / £34.99 (about AU$57)
$44 / £39.98 / AU$66
$19 / £19 / AU$29
Drivers
9.7mm dynamic
10mm dynamic
Dynamic
Weight
0.5oz / 15g
0.6oz / 16g
1.1oz / 30g
Frequency range
17Hz-20kHz
15Hz-22kHz
20Hz-20kHz
Connectivity
USB-C
USB-C
USB-C
SoundMagic E80D SoundMagic may not be quite the household name Sennheiser is (unless you're an audiophile on a budget), but the company produces a lot of great quality affordable audio gear, including the SoundMagic E80D USB-C earbuds. With detailed audio, impressive noise isolation and a genuinely comfortable fit, these buds have a lot going for them. Read our full SoundMagic E80D review.
Apple EarPods USB-C Here’s a super-cheap pair of wired earbuds that you’ve probably come across before: the Apple EarPods USB-C. These buds have a more open design, leaving out the in-ear seal of the CX 80U and SoundMagic E80D. They’re sleek, well-made, and have a solid built-in mic too. They sound OK for the price, with solid low-end weight, but you won’t get the detail or nuance of Sennheiser’s buds. Read our full Apple EarPods USB-C review.
How I tested the Sennheiser CX 80U
(Image credit: Future)
Tested for two weeks
Used in the office and while out and about
Predominantly tested using Tidal
I spent two weeks testing the Sennheiser CX 80U, and took them with me just about everywhere I went. I tested them at home, at the office, and even on walks, to really grasp their noise isolation capabilities.Although I used them for streaming the odd bit of video, I predominantly used the CX 80U for music listening. When playing tunes, I predominantly used Tidal, and had them connected up to the Nothing Phone (4a). To begin with, I made sure to run through our TechRadar testing playlist, which features tunes from a wide array of genres. However, I also made sure to tap into some tracks from my personal library.More generally, I’ve spent two years reviewing gadgets here at TechRadar, and audio gear is a key focus of mine. I’ve reviewed a lot of wired earbuds like the Master & Dynamic ME05 and the JBL Tune 310C, but I’ve also tested IEMs, like the Sennheiser IE 200 and IE 600. On top of that, I’ve gone hands on with some of the best noise cancelling headphones, like the Sony WH-1000XM6, Dolby Atmos soundbars such as the Samsung HW-Q800F, and Bluetooth speakers like the Marshall Kilburn III.
Quo (formerly OpenPhone) is a cloud-based business phone system designed for teams that want a modern, app-centric alternative to traditional VoIP or PBX setups. It blends calling, texting, shared numbers, and AI-powered automation in a single workspace that feels more like a messaging app than a legacy phone console.This company targets small and midsize businesses, startups, and distributed teams that need professional phone numbers, shared inboxes, and collaboration tools without investing in desk phones or complex hardware. The service runs on desktop and mobile apps, keeping personal and business communication separate while giving teams a unified view of calls and messages.A key differentiator is the Sona AI voice agent, which can answer calls 24/7, capture details, generate transcripts, and suggest follow-up actions, effectively acting as a virtual receptionist and note-taker. When combined with integrations with tools like HubSpot and Salesforce, Quo aims to streamline how teams handle leads, support tickets, and client communication.
Quo: Plans and pricing
(Image credit: Quo)
Quo uses per-user, per-month pricing, with tiers that unlock additional AI capabilities, advanced analytics, and more robust integrations as you go up the ladder. This structure keeps it approachable for very small teams that just need core calling and texting, while still scaling for growing companies that want deeper reporting or CRM sync.Higher-tier plans typically include features like advanced call tagging, more powerful Sona AI automation, and expanded integration options with CRMs and other business tools. Transparent pricing and no required hardware purchases help keep the total cost of ownership predictable, especially compared with legacy on-premises phone systems that require separate maintenance and equipment.
Quo: Features
(Image credit: Quo)
Quo is built to be deployed quickly, often without IT involvement, which will appeal to small businesses and non-technical founders. Getting started typically involves creating an account, choosing or porting phone numbers, installing the desktop and mobile apps, and inviting team members to join.Number porting, configuring shared inboxes, and setting up basic call routing rules can usually be completed from the admin dashboard, with guided steps and documentation to reduce friction. Many customers highlight straightforward onboarding and the ability to get a working phone system live in a short amount of time, especially compared with traditional providers.
Quo: Ease of use
(Image credit: Quo)
Most users describe Quo’s interface as clean and modern, with a layout that resembles familiar messaging apps, lowering the learning curve. The shared conversation view helps new team members quickly understand context, and the separation between personal and business communication on mobile devices supports healthier work–life boundaries.Features like conversation assignment, internal comments, and automated call summaries cut down on back-and-forth and reduce the need for external note-taking tools. For teams, having calls and texts in one shared thread for each customer makes collaboration more intuitive than bouncing between email, chat, and a separate phone app.
Quo: Security and privacy
Quo emphasizes secure communication and payment handling, particularly for organizations in regulated industries like healthcare. Once a HIPAA Business Associate Agreement is in place, Quo can be configured to support compliant communication workflows, with safeguards that align with HIPAA’s Privacy and Security Rules.For billing and payments, Quo relies on Stripe as a PCI Service Provider Level 1–certified processor, meaning credit card data is never stored on Quo’s servers and is transmitted using strong encryption. The platform layers on protections like multi-factor authentication for sensitive account changes, regular security audits, and privacy policies that stress minimal data collection, purpose limitation, and user control over personal data.
Quo: Support
Customers often praise Quo’s support team for being responsive, professional, and helpful during onboarding and troubleshooting. Small business users, in particular, note that setup questions and technical issues tend to be addressed promptly, which is important when the phone system is mission-critical.Quo offers a support site and resource center with documentation on configuration, security, and compliance, though some users have reported issues with the in-dashboard AI assistant not functioning correctly in highly locked-down browser environments. This suggests that while core support quality is strong, the AI help experience may vary depending on security settings and browser constraints.
Quo: The competition
Quo competes with a crowded field of cloud-based communication platforms, including RingCentral, Nextiva, and GoTo Connect, as well as more lightweight app-based services. Many of these rivals offer robust call routing, analytics, and integrations, but may lean more heavily on traditional PBX paradigms or require more complex configuration.Where Quo stands out is its focus on an app-first, messaging-like experience and its AI-driven Sona agent, which aims to capture and categorize every call without manual intervention. However, some power users and larger enterprises may still prefer competitors with more mature contact-center features or deeper native analytics if those advanced capabilities matter more than a streamlined interface.
Quo: Final verdict
Quo is a compelling choice for small and midsize teams that value simplicity, collaboration, and AI assistance as much as traditional phone features. Its shared inbox model, Sona AI agent, and CRM integrations make it especially attractive for sales, support, and real estate teams that live and die by fast, context-rich customer communication.There are some trade-offs: users with locked-down environments may encounter quirks with the AI support assistant, and organizations needing advanced contact center tooling may find more specialized options elsewhere. But for most growing businesses that want an easy-to-manage phone system that feels like a modern messaging app—and that also captures and organizes every interaction—Quo earns a strong recommendation.
Quo (formerly OpenPhone) is a cloud-based business phone system designed for teams that want a modern, app-centric alternative to traditional VoIP or PBX setups. It blends calling, texting, shared numbers, and AI-powered automation in a single workspace that feels more like a messaging app than a legacy phone console.This company targets small and midsize businesses, startups, and distributed teams that need professional phone numbers, shared inboxes, and collaboration tools without investing in desk phones or complex hardware. The service runs on desktop and mobile apps, keeping personal and business communication separate while giving teams a unified view of calls and messages.A key differentiator is the Sona AI voice agent, which can answer calls 24/7, capture details, generate transcripts, and suggest follow-up actions, effectively acting as a virtual receptionist and note-taker. When combined with integrations with tools like HubSpot and Salesforce, Quo aims to streamline how teams handle leads, support tickets, and client communication.
Quo: Plans and pricing
(Image credit: Quo)
Quo uses per-user, per-month pricing, with tiers that unlock additional AI capabilities, advanced analytics, and more robust integrations as you go up the ladder. This structure keeps it approachable for very small teams that just need core calling and texting, while still scaling for growing companies that want deeper reporting or CRM sync.Higher-tier plans typically include features like advanced call tagging, more powerful Sona AI automation, and expanded integration options with CRMs and other business tools. Transparent pricing and no required hardware purchases help keep the total cost of ownership predictable, especially compared with legacy on-premises phone systems that require separate maintenance and equipment.
Quo: Features
(Image credit: Quo)
Quo is built to be deployed quickly, often without IT involvement, which will appeal to small businesses and non-technical founders. Getting started typically involves creating an account, choosing or porting phone numbers, installing the desktop and mobile apps, and inviting team members to join.Number porting, configuring shared inboxes, and setting up basic call routing rules can usually be completed from the admin dashboard, with guided steps and documentation to reduce friction. Many customers highlight straightforward onboarding and the ability to get a working phone system live in a short amount of time, especially compared with traditional providers.
Quo: Ease of use
(Image credit: Quo)
Most users describe Quo’s interface as clean and modern, with a layout that resembles familiar messaging apps, lowering the learning curve. The shared conversation view helps new team members quickly understand context, and the separation between personal and business communication on mobile devices supports healthier work–life boundaries.Features like conversation assignment, internal comments, and automated call summaries cut down on back-and-forth and reduce the need for external note-taking tools. For teams, having calls and texts in one shared thread for each customer makes collaboration more intuitive than bouncing between email, chat, and a separate phone app.
Quo: Security and privacy
Quo emphasizes secure communication and payment handling, particularly for organizations in regulated industries like healthcare. Once a HIPAA Business Associate Agreement is in place, Quo can be configured to support compliant communication workflows, with safeguards that align with HIPAA’s Privacy and Security Rules.For billing and payments, Quo relies on Stripe as a PCI Service Provider Level 1–certified processor, meaning credit card data is never stored on Quo’s servers and is transmitted using strong encryption. The platform layers on protections like multi-factor authentication for sensitive account changes, regular security audits, and privacy policies that stress minimal data collection, purpose limitation, and user control over personal data.
Quo: Support
Customers often praise Quo’s support team for being responsive, professional, and helpful during onboarding and troubleshooting. Small business users, in particular, note that setup questions and technical issues tend to be addressed promptly, which is important when the phone system is mission-critical.Quo offers a support site and resource center with documentation on configuration, security, and compliance, though some users have reported issues with the in-dashboard AI assistant not functioning correctly in highly locked-down browser environments. This suggests that while core support quality is strong, the AI help experience may vary depending on security settings and browser constraints.
Quo: The competition
Quo competes with a crowded field of cloud-based communication platforms, including RingCentral, Nextiva, and GoTo Connect, as well as more lightweight app-based services. Many of these rivals offer robust call routing, analytics, and integrations, but may lean more heavily on traditional PBX paradigms or require more complex configuration.Where Quo stands out is its focus on an app-first, messaging-like experience and its AI-driven Sona agent, which aims to capture and categorize every call without manual intervention. However, some power users and larger enterprises may still prefer competitors with more mature contact-center features or deeper native analytics if those advanced capabilities matter more than a streamlined interface.
Quo: Final verdict
Quo is a compelling choice for small and midsize teams that value simplicity, collaboration, and AI assistance as much as traditional phone features. Its shared inbox model, Sona AI agent, and CRM integrations make it especially attractive for sales, support, and real estate teams that live and die by fast, context-rich customer communication.There are some trade-offs: users with locked-down environments may encounter quirks with the AI support assistant, and organizations needing advanced contact center tooling may find more specialized options elsewhere. But for most growing businesses that want an easy-to-manage phone system that feels like a modern messaging app—and that also captures and organizes every interaction—Quo earns a strong recommendation.
The original GreedFall was something of a balm for people starving for a particular flavor of sub-BioWare action role-playing games (RPGs) - games about reading lore codices and speaking to party members about their unresolved family drama.
Review info
Platform reviewed: PS5 Available on: PS5, Xbox Series X|S, PC Release date: March 12, 2026
True to form for veteran “Temu versions of bigger RPGs” developer Spiders, it played like an earnest if haphazard version of The Witcher 2. GreedFall: The Dying World - no longer named GreedFall 2to clarify its position as a prequel to the original - instead attempts to channel the spirit of classic late 90s or early 00s PC games as it becomes a real-time-with-pause tactical RPG.The other big shift is in your perspective: the original game cast you as a member of a noble house from a Europe-inspired industrialised nation, as it’s in the middle of colonising a new world of feather-wearing, magic-infused natives with a culture built out of thoughtlessly mashed together indigenous stereotypes. Presumably in response to criticism of their poorly handled parable of the colonisation of North America, Spiders has taken the bafflingly ill-advised decision to make it all an allegory for the transatlantic slave trade instead.
Troubled waters
(Image credit: Nacon)
In The Dying World, you play as a member of a tribe indigenous to the fantasy island of Teer Fradee who is quickly ripped from their home by soldiers and shipped to the mainland in a prison ship. It’s a bold opening for a developer that doesn’t have a great track record for handling this sort of thing with any degree of sensitivity or consideration.Luckily, creative cowardice wins out, and you are immediately sprung from prison by a woman who is really very sorry about her job being to help ships bring back captured natives for cultish human experimentation. The rest of the game feels very much like a tour of apologism, as we find out that it’s actually only a few bad apples - and not the entire colonial apparatus - that has a penchant for human slavery and torture. It’s a shame how familiar things are, how quickly the player character becomes second fiddle to more traditional RPG stories starring your roster of deeply uninteresting party members. There is no opportunity for righteous fury at what all of these people have been doing to your homeland. You can’t go on a revenge rampage. You can’t assassinate business leaders. You just stumble along, being helpful and small while hoping someone in a position of power feels enough remorse to assist you in rescuing other captured natives or find a way home. The best you can hope for is for some official to possibly consider, maybe one day, looking into the whole slavery business.
(Image credit: Nacon)
The lack of player agency can sometimes reach comical levels; you would think a party member becoming a captain of her own massive ship would be a solid ticket back home for the island natives. Raising it as a possibility makes the rest of the party act as if you’re being completely unreasonable to demand such an expensive and time-consuming diversion. It makes far more sense to help everyone else with whatever lingering lifelong mission they’ve been on first. It’s a bizarre decision for the studio to double down on the biggest weakness of the original game and flub the blank slate they had given themselves. There’s a game about a cool pirate lady going on adventures that they could have made, away from the baggage of the bad ideas they’d had. They’ve ended up with the worst of both worlds, lacking the conviction to focus on the indigenous storyline but also tarnishing the attempt to make a fun RPG about finding lost treasure and killing inexplicable packs of rabid monkeys in the countryside.
The trying world
(Image credit: Nacon)
The combat is also a step back. With GreedFall and Steelrising, it felt like Spiders had finally settled into a comfortable place with its attempts at real-time, vaguely soulslike combat. Here, it has looked at the success of Baldur’s Gate 3 and the rest of the computer role-playing game (CRPG) revival, and tried something more tactical - ending up with a system very close to Dragon Age: Origins. Exploration is done via a traditional third-person camera, but at the press of a button, the camera pulls out to an almost isometric view, and time freezes - allowing you to get a handle on the details of each foe, queue up individual actions for each party member, and position them for defensive or offensive purposes. Unpausing keeps you in the tactical view, letting you monitor how things play out and decide when you need to pause again and adapt to the battle as it unfolds. Not that you’ll ever be really surprised by anything. Most encounters play out the same way; the same way they do in most CRPGs - sending out a tank to draw enemy attention away from your preferred assortment of spell casters, archers and thieves who all chip away at enemy defences or hit them with afflictions or cast favourable buffs on the tank. Sometimes there’ll be an explosive barrel.It works fine. The studio has done a genuinely commendable job at mapping this sort of thing onto a console controller - you never feel like you’re struggling against the absence of a scroll wheel or a keyboard. You might find yourself struggling to stay engaged in your third, drawn-out battle against a dozen rabid monkeys in a row - as you find yourself pausing and pausing to carry out the same tried and tested tactics you’ve been relying on for 20 hours. Outside of a few standout bosses, the game rarely throws you a curveball or forces you to think outside of the box.
(Image credit: Nacon)
Fortunately, The Dying World features some robust difficulty and control options - letting you do everything from making it so that a single badly timed or placed spell can result in wiping out your own party or turning the game into a third-person autobattler with infinite health. If the combat ever starts to feel like a slog, you can essentially make it play itself while you enjoy exploring the world or furthering the narrative. Or if you prefer to turn it into something like a 90s computer classic, you could play the entire thing like it’s a real-time strategy with a fixed isometric camera as you click your way around the environment.As a Spiders fan in general, this is ultimately a deeply frustrating experience. There’s a lot to be appreciated here. The towns and cities of the continent are a densely packed delight to explore, once you’re finally given the freedom to do so. There’s a calming quality to being able to sit back and consider your options as you look down on the battlefield. But there’s only so long you can spend clicking on the same combination of skill icons in battles that all overstay their welcome. Only so many times you can grimace as the writing constantly trips over itself. It’s heart breaking to say, given the effort involved - and knowing there’s a strong likelihood this could be Spiders’ swansong - but this is a world they should have let this world die in peace.
Should I play GreedFall: The Dying World?
Play it if...
You enjoy comparing trousers While GreedFall: The Dying World's encounters leave much to be desired, preparing for them is deeply satisfying if you're the type of person who likes pouring over the statistical details of every item of clothing equipped on your party members. There's a steady trickle of loot to sort through, and all of it is reflected visually, so you'll be agonizing between form and function.
You like looking at cobblestones and trees The world might be dying, but it's very nice to look at. It takes too long to reach the point where you can freely explore the towns of the continent, but once you do, you'll find they're oozing with detail and atmosphere. Each nation feels genuinely distinct in terms of architecture and personality, while feeling grounded in the same world.
Don't play it if...
You like well thought-out fantasy settings Focusing on the already poorly conceived and broadly drawn native culture of the original is a perplexing, unforced error. What could have been a course correction only leads to more missteps, as every hour sees some plot beat or piece of dialogue that will make any player who is culturally or historically sensitive suck air through their teeth and tug at their collar.
You are hoping to show off your tactical genius GreedFall: The Dying World's more complex combat ends up feeling like a tedious slog rather than a true test of your intelligence. Most builds don't feel particularly unique or interesting, offering nothing you haven't seen a thousand times already. All you can really do is shovel in some artificial difficulty in the form of damage modifiers or friendly fire, which grates very quickly.
Accessibility features
The game lets you change a variety of aspects of combat to taste, from friendly or enemy damage levels to when the game pauses automatically or how the camera reacts in certain contexts. You can determine how much autonomy your party members have during a fight. There are three presets available, which offer different ways to experience and engage with combat, from minimal to exact. Subtitle options are limited to one background and three sizes, but there are no colourblind settings. Commendably, they have included something that every video game should release with - an Infinite Health toggle switch in the options menu.
How I reviewed GreedFall: The Dying World
I played through the main storyline and the major companion quests of Greedfall: The Dying World for over 40 hours on a stock PlayStation 5 hooked up to a 50” OLED TV. The HDR really shows off the wide range of deep, rich browns and reds that make up the towns and forests you’ll be spending your time in. I played using the Quality Mode, which caps the FPS at 30 frames per second (fps) - which I found had little impact on the tactical combat. The Performance Mode caps at 60, but the significant reduction in resolution makes the detailed environments appear fuzzy and cluttered. First reviewed March 2026
The Bluesound Pulse Flex is a reboot of the brand’s 2018 wireless speaker. Capable of hi-res playback and being part of a multi-room setup, its most obvious rival is the Sonos Era 100. But is it capable of squaring up to Sonos’s entry level option?First off, it deftly handles the separation of various elements in the mix. Listening to Nervous Tics by Maribou State, I was impressed with how judiciously it balanced each instrument, with the guitar and the arpeggiated synth given plenty of room. Vocals especially always felt like they were given their due deference, sounding fantastically clear and soaring above the rest of the mix.A big part of this is that the Pulse Flex dedicates plenty of space in the mix for the mids to express themselves, rather than boosting bass and treble as a cheap way of adding punch. Playing Cirrus by Bonobo, I was immediately struck by how energetic the Kalimba sounded and the satisfying resonance and reverb to the chimes. Honestly, its performance in this frequency range is as good as I’ve heard from any of the best wireless speakers in this price range.That’s not to say it doesn’t have any sonic shortcomings though. For example, as it doesn’t have stereo drivers, it’s only capable of mono playback unless you pair it with another Bluesound speaker, meaning you’re not going to get as satisfying a soundstage as you might otherwise. The speaker’s also surprisingly quiet – I rarely need to run most speakers at more than 50% volume, whereas I had to crank the Pulse Flex at around 65% just to get a similar level of loudness out of it.There are also some areas of the mix it handles less well than the mids. For example, when playing Us (Pola & Bryson Remix) by Alchemist, I was immediately struck by how subdued the sub felt, particularly compared to a more bass-heavy wireless speaker like the Sonos Era 100. On occasion, transients like hi-hats can also feel like they’re lacking in crispness and bite, suggesting the treble is a little muted.Of course, this is where many speakers would fall back on their EQ settings as a defence, reasoning that at least you can compensate for their audio weaknesses here, should you wish. Unfortunately for the Pulse Flex, its EQ settings are seriously limited, only allowing you to boost or reduce bass or treble. It also doesn’t have any form of built-in room calibration, meaning it won’t compensate for unfavorable placement.But while it’s a little lacking in audio features, it makes up for it in terms of connectivity options. Wireless options are impressive enough, with integrated streaming apps, AirPlay 2 and Bluetooth aptX HD. However, it’s the variety of wired inputs that really impressed me – it offers a staggering range for a speaker of this price, including a 3.5mm analog jack, optical in, USB for connecting external drives and USB-C for running a digital input from your PC or laptop.This smart physical design is echoed elsewhere throughout the Pulse Flex’s build. I’m a big fan of its styling, with its flattened front face and attractive colorways helping it to stand out from the crowd of interchangeable wireless speakers. Meanwhile, the acoustically transparent fabric of its grille and matte plastic of its body feel wonderfully tactile. I only wish that its buttons were slightly less fine, as they’re not as pleasant to press as circular buttons would be.All things considered, the Bluesound Pulse Flex is an effective speaker for its $349 / £279 price. It offers excellent resolution and handles crowded mixes pretty deftly, as well as making vocals and other mid-range elements shine. Unfortunately, it does lack where sub is concerned and offers too few sound-tweaking features though, so if you’re into a bassier sound or just like tailoring audio to suit your preferences, you might be better off with one of the best wireless speakers instead.
(Image credit: Future)
Bluesound Pulse Flex review: price and availability
Launched on December 16, 2025
List price: $349 / £279
Having launched on December 16, 2025, the Bluesound Pulse Flex is available direct from Bluesound, as well as from third-party sellers such as Amazon. Its list price is $349 / £279, making it a shade more expensive than the Sonos Era 100, which originally had a list price of $249 / £249 before dropping down to $219 / £199.For that price, you get your choice of three colorways: Black / Charcoal, White / Pebble Grey and the stunning looking White / Tan finish. Each speaker is mono though, so if you’re dead set on having a stereo, you’ll want to budget for two units, not just one.
(Image credit: Future)
Bluesound Pulse Flex review: specs
Speaker drivers
1 x 0.75-inch tweeter 1 x 4-inch woofer
Amplification
Smart DSP amplifier
Dimensions
5.15 x 7.73 x 4.37 inches / 131 x 196 x 111mm
Connectivity
Wi-Fi 5, Bluetooth 5.3 aptX HD, 3.5mm optical / analog combo, USB-C, USB-A, Ethernet
Multi-room groups, loudness optimization, tone controls, replay gain, mono / left / right settings, volume limits
(Image credit: Future)
Bluesound Pulse Flex review: features
Great range of connectivity options
Basic EQ settings
No room calibration tools
Setting up the Bluesound Pulse Flex is pretty simple. Like many other wireless speakers, you simply need to connect to its built-in Wi-Fi using your device’s settings, then authorize it to use your chosen Wi-Fi network. Admittedly, this process failed the first time I tried it but the second time it connected with minimal drama, so I’ll give it a pass here.The Bluesound app is easy to use overall and offers decent functionality. It allows you to manage your streaming services – including Amazon Music, Deezer, Spotify and Tidal – and group or ungroup all of your Bluesound speakers into a multi-room system. Additionally, it allows you to create presets for its three preset buttons, for example triggering your fave playlist on Tidal at a single tap.Unfortunately, there are some areas that are much more limited, particularly when it comes to sound-tweaking features. The EQ settings are the most rudimentary you’re likely to get in a wireless speaker, literally only allowing you to boost or duck treble or bass by 6dB either way. There’s no six- or nine-band EQ available here, let alone the innovative parametric EQ offered by Wiim’s speakers, which really limits how much you can rebalance and refine its sound profile. There’s also no room calibration here. The "flexible placement options" I originally hoped would refer to algorithmic calibration just mean it can be placed on a table, wall or stand-mount. Meanwhile, Bluesound says that its Front Row feature "shares several traits with the equalization principle of loudness compensation". I’m assuming this milquetoast statement means that it is essentially loudness compensation, but your guess is as good as mine here.
(Image credit: Future)
One area I will absolutely give the Pulse Flex its dues though is when it comes to connectivity. For a speaker at this price point, it offers an absolutely chasmic range of connectivity options. Not only do you get multiroom connectivity and hi-res audio at up to 24-bit/192kHz over Wi-Fi but it also offers Bluetooth aptX HD, meaning you can still stream in near lossless quality from devices that don’t offer AirPlay 2. But, perhaps even more impressive, it offers a whole load of physical ports. Its optical and 3.5mm inputs allow you to hook up digital and analog sources with ease, while its USB-A port lets you play content from an external drive and its USB-C connection means you can stream digital audio straight from your laptop or PC. In comparison, the slightly cheaper Sonos Era 100 only offers a single USB-C port and even then you’ll need the sold-separately Sonos Line-In Adapter to plug anything into it.All in all, the Pulse Flex has some strong features for its price. But it really is far behind the competition when it comes to sound polishing functionality – these days, I’d expect more granular options than just bass or treble boost and reduction.
Features score: 3.5 / 5
(Image credit: Future)
Bluesound Pulse Flex review: sound quality
Well-rounded mids and decent treble
Effective instrument separation
Lacking in the low-end
Quite quiet compared to other speakers
Of course, lackingcomprehensive EQ settings is less of an issue if a speaker nails its sound in the first place. The Bluesound Pulse Flex performs reasonably well on this front, although it is lacking in one or two significant areas.On first playing the Bluesound Pulse Flex, I was impressed with how gorgeously well-rounded the mid-range frequencies were. Playing No Skin by Frameworks, I loved how clearly expressed and resonant those mallet noises were, while the vocals soared clear of the mix. There’s a real warmth and presence to these frequencies that suggest the Pulse Flex doesn’t scrimp in the lower-mid range, a real pet peeve of mine.When it comes to bass though, it’s immediately apparent that something is lacking. Spinning Us (Pola & Bryson Remix) by Alchemist, I was pleased to hear that the torn edges of its distorted bassline had a real sense of definition when they ripped right up into the lower mids. But there’s often a palpable void where the sub would be, making you keenly aware you’re hearing a reproduction of the recording, rather than a perfect facsimile. A little more emphasis on the low end here would just help ground everything a little better and place it on a firmer footing.The treble is much less problematic, at least on first impression. Few songs are as good at diagnosing a flaky high end as Go Your Own Way by Fleetwood Mac and certainly it didn’t betray any unnecessary sharpness or limiting. Again the vocals sounded fantastically well-defined, although this did come slightly at the expense of the guitars – these usually sound as taut as piano wire, so it does feel like the treble is occasionally sacrificed on the altar of that expressive mid-range.Generally, I found the Bluesound Pulse Flex was pretty tolerant of lower quality recordings, which is a real plus if you’re likely to use it in Bluetooth mode – especially if your device doesn’t have Bluetooth aptX HD. Yes, I could detect a bit of downsampling on elements like hats and cymbals and it could be a little less dynamic than I’d like but it honestly wasn’t that different to some of the Bluetooth speakers I’ve tested.
(Image credit: Future)
Give it a slice of hi-res audio and it really shines though. Playing Wasting My Young Years by London Grammar on Tidal’s hi-res tier, it really communicated the gorgeously honeyed timbre of the vocals and yet didn’t crush the piano or guitar too much, allowing both elements to interplay with the long reverberant tail of the vocals. It’s a spacious sound that really allows instruments plenty of room to express themselves.It is worth noting though that this speaker is mono, unlike rivals like the Sonos Era 100 – as a result, its soundstage is naturally very one dimensional. That’s a shame as the extra width could really help carve out a distinct space for each element. And yes, you could pair two into a stereo pair but that means spending twice the price, which really changes the value you’re getting out of the speaker.One other minor criticism I have of the Pulse Flex is it’s a bit of a shrinking violet. While some affordable wireless speakers can be overconfident in terms of their output levels, the Pulse Flex seemed a little on the quiet side to me. While I rarely ever play the Sonos Era 100 louder than about 50% volume, I had to boost the Bluesound’s speaker up to 65% - 70% just to get the same subjective volume. Yet if I cranked it up a few more notches to 80% volume, it quickly started to sound harsh and a bit squeezed, even if it wasn’t quite actively limiting yet.All in all, the Pulse Flex’s sound quality is good. Don’t get me wrong: my socks remained unblown when it came to either bass or volume but it’s performance in the mid-range is surprisingly capable and I liked how deftly it handled the dynamic separation of different instruments. Vocals in particular sound fantastic for a mid-price speaker, so if you’re not as bass-obsessed as I am, you’ll likely find it serves you well.
Sound quality score: 4 / 5
(Image credit: Future)
Bluesound Pulse Flex review: design
Unique design
Chic colorways
Buttons not the most comfortable
Unboxing the Bluesound Pulse Flex, I found its look to be pretty refreshing. In the main part, I think that’s because it eschews the basic cylinder shape that’s become almost ubiquitous in wireless speakers at this price point. Instead, it has a flattened front face – from above, its cross-section gave me gumdrop vibes – making it perfect for nestling into a corner and projecting its sound into the room.And this flexibility is supported by its Lilliputian size. At 5.15 x 7.73 x 4.37 inches / 131 x 196 x 111 mm, it’s more the size of the Sonos Era 100 than a beast like the Wiim Sound. And weighing in at just 3.55lbs / 1.61kg, it’s not particularly heavy either – not only is that less than the Era 100 at 4.45 lbs / 2.02kg, it was light enough I could easily pick it up and reposition it with one hand.Elsewhere, its design is a little less adventurous, but still appealing. Both its top and bottom are fashioned out of tactile matt plastic, while its drivers are covered with a fine, acoustically transparent fabric grille – Bluesound’s data sheet alleges this is removable but honestly I couldn’t work out how and felt like I was going to break it every time I tried.
(Image credit: Future)
I’m a big fan of the colorways on offer though. Black / Charcoal looks a little basic to me but the White / Pebble Grey version I tested here is stylish enough. And I flat out love the White / Tan finish, as it would be easy to match with a warm decor.Along the top surface, the Bluesound Pulse Flex has the standard array of buttons, covering increasing and decreasing volume, skipping forward and backward and play / pause. There are also three shortcut buttons, which work nicely – using the app, I set one to launch our testing playlist in Tidal and it worked pretty seamlessly. But while the buttons themselves are pretty responsive, giving nice clicky feedback, I’m not totally sold on the shape of them, with their slim lines feeling a little too angular under your fingertips.The good news is those buttons aren’t your only option for controlling the Pulse Flex. It’s also compatible with the Bluesound RC1 Remote Control, meaning you can operate it from the comfort of your couch. The bad news? It’s sold separately so you’ll have to spend an additional $69 / £49 if you want to get your mitts on it.
Design score: 4 / 5
(Image credit: Future)
Should I buy the Bluesound Pulse Flex?
Attribute
Notes
Score
Features
Excellent connectivity like Bluetooth aptX HD, analog / optical in and USB-C. But EQ settings are very basic and there’s no room tuning.
3.5 / 5
Sound quality
Offers hi-res, dynamic sound with well-rounded mids. Bass is a little lacking though and it’s quieter than most speakers.
4 / 5
Design
Lightweight, attractive design with some gorgeous colorways on offer. Buttons work well, although feel less tactile than they could be.
4 / 5
Value
Fairly reasonable price for its quality, although it’s more expensive than the Sonos Era 100, while not offering substantially better sound.
3.5 / 5
Buy it if…
You want polished sound Not only is the Pulse Flex capable of hi-res playback but it has a pretty polished mid-range, making many instruments and vocals in particular shine.
You want to connect a lot of sources The Pulse Flex offers a seriously broad range of connectivity options on top of its wireless connectivity, including a 3.5mm jack, optical in, and USB-A and USB-C ports.
Don’t buy it if…
You’re a bass fanatic The Pulse Flex is a little lacking in the low end. So if you’ve got a soft spot for sub-bass frequencies, it’s probably not going to scratch that itch.
You want advanced sound features Not only does the Pulse Flex swerve any room calibration tech, but its EQ settings are really quite basic, only allowing you to boost or reduce bass or treble.
Bluesound Pulse Flex review: also consider
Bluesound Pulse Flex
Sonos Era 100
JBL Authentics 200
Speaker drivers
1 x 0.75-inch tweeter 1 x 4-inch woofer
2x tweeters, 1x midwoofer
2 x 25mm tweeters, 5-inch full-range woofer, 6-inch passive radiator
Amplification
Smart DSP amplifier
3x Class D amps
Dimensions
5.15 x 7.73 x 4.37 inches / 131 x 196 x 111mm
4.72 x 7.18 x 5.14 inches / 120 x 183 x 131mm
10.48 x 6.76 x 6.59 inches / 266.3 x 171.7 x 167.4mm
Connectivity
Wi-Fi 5, Bluetooth 5.3 aptX HD, 3.5mm optical / analog combo, USB-C, USB-A, Ethernet
Wi-Fi 6, Bluetooth 5.0, USB-C (3.5mm line-in and Ethernet via adapter)
Multi-room groups, loudness optimization, tone controls, replay gain, mono / left / right settings, volume limits
Sonos multi-room control, Sonos home theater option, stereo pair option
Multi-room playback, auto self-tuning
Sonos Era 100 Not only is the Sonos Era 100 marginally more affordable than the Pulse Flex, it also serves up substantial bass and a lively, dynamic sound. While not quite as spacious-sounding as the Flex, it does offer more presence, not to mention stereo sound, making it a good choice if your priority is hefty sounding music with a substantial soundstage. Read our full Sonos Era 100 review.
JBL Authentics 200 There’s a reason we’ve rated the JBL Authentics 200 as our best wireless speaker overall. Not only is it pretty keenly priced but it offers rich detailed sound that’s sure to impress. It also has fun, retro styling like physical knobs – remember those? – and vintage detailing. Read our full JBL Authentics 200 review.
(Image credit: Future)
How I tested the Bluesound Pulse Flex
Tested over a week
Played a wide variety of genres
Tried out a range of connectivity options
I tested the Bluesound Pulse Flex over the course of a week. To put it through its paces, I played a diverse range of music across many genres, including pop, classic rock, melodic techno and drum and bass. This helped me assess its performance in different frequency bands and ascertain how well it conveyed sparser and busier mixes.To really get a picture of how it handled different quality recordings, I played music at a range of qualities, from Tidal's hi-res tier to basic AAC files. I also made sure to try out a range of connectivity options, whether that was integrated streaming apps, AirPlay 2 or via Bluetooth.In terms of my experience, I've been testing speakers for around six years. On top of this, I use a wide range audio gadgets on a daily basis at home. I also produce music as a hobby, giving me a keen understanding for assessing the balance of frequencies and weighing up the expression of various elements of a recording.
Can earbuds be fantastic, and a disappointment, at the same time? Apparently so: the Samsung Galaxy Buds 4 Pro are some of the best earbuds I’ve ever tested, but the company has failed to address any of the issues which put buyers (myself included) off the Buds 3 Pro.The latest AirPods Pro rivals from Samsung were released alongside the Galaxy S26 Ultra and co., including a cheaper Galaxy Buds 4 with a few choice downgrades. The Korean company doesn’t just upgrade its audio line-up annually, seemingly waiting for tech to move on enough to justify a newer model. And the good news is, there’s no doubt that these 2026 earbuds prove themselves against their predecessors.The Samsung Galaxy Buds 4 Pro sit among the best-sounding earbuds I’ve ever tested, with a driver upgrade letting them stack up against audiophile-designed premium options I’ve tried like the triple-driver Status Pro X and slightly-more-affordable Creative Aurvana Ace 3. You’re going to have to pay a lot to get better in-ear sounds, or opt for a wired pair.The upgrade is in the woofer, designed for bass, which Samsung says is 20% bigger than before. This allows for meaty but controlled bass, allowing the buds to retain the warm sound of past models but without overshadowing mids and trebles. You can also get incredibly high-quality sound thanks to Samsung’s own SSC Bluetooth standard, but only if you’re using a Galaxy phone. The fact that you need a handset from the company to unlock all the features is something we complained about in the past buds, and it’s just one of several issues from older models that hasn’t been addressed. As TechRadar's audio editor wrote recently, if Samsung revived Milk Music so we never had to leave the Galaxy ecosystem, it might be a different story, in the way that Apple Music is the irrefutable bridge between Apple's AirPods and its iPhone, but that isn't the case (so I do still have to mention it). And that's not the only issue that's been carried over. Take, for example, the proprietary ear-tip locking system which saw the Buds 3 Pro delayed. It’s still here! Removing and replacing them is much more fiddly than it needs to be, and yanking them off runs the risk of tearing your tip in two – you also can’t use the vast majority of ‘standard’ ear-tips here, so if you’ve got a selection you’ve bought or leftovers from past earbuds you’ve owned, they’re basically landfill now. Please cough up more cash for Samsung-approved ones.Compounding the problem is the fit: the Samsung Galaxy Buds 4 Pro didn’t stay in my ear especially well, and I know this is a problem that plagued 3 Pro users too. The tip material doesn’t offer enough friction to keep the buds in there when you’re on the go, and there’s a lack of any other stabilizing design features like a fin or balanced weighting, which could go some way in rectifying the problem.Many of my Galaxy Buds 4 Pro gripes are smaller pain points that you’ll easily get used to, but the fit problem is a real shame: it was a complained-about point a year and a half ago on the older model, and it’s something that doesn’t get better over time. Know this: I struggled with whether to list the Galaxy Buds 4 Pro with a 4-star or 4.5-star review rating, but I keep coming back to the excellent sound quality and ANC efficacy. If you've got a Samsung phone, you know they'll fit OK, you're good at charging your buds regularly and you're not fussed about switching the ear-tips, they're a 4.5-star product all day long. For the rest of the music-loving market? They're a solid 4…
Samsung Galaxy Buds 4 Pro review: Price and release date
(Image credit: Future)
Announced in February 2026, released March
Sells for $249 / £219 / AU$399
No price hike from past models
The Samsung Galaxy Buds 4 Pro were unveiled on February 25, 2026, and put on sale on March 11. That’s the same as the phones they were announced alongside: the Galaxy S26 series.To buy the new buds, you’ll have to shell out $249 / £219 / AU$399. That’s certainly a high price for earbuds in today's market, signalling them as premium options, though it’s worth noting that the previous model also launched at this price. Let’s put that in context: the latest AirPods Pro cost $249 / £219 / AU$429 so it’s a similar price in most places, but Samsung undercuts Apple in Australia. The standard Galaxy Buds 4 go for $179 / £159 / AU$299 so they’re naturally cheaper, but you’re getting an open-style bud for that price (think Apple's AirPods 4).
Samsung Galaxy Buds 4 Pro review: Specs
Drivers
11mm woofer + 5.5mm planar tweeter
Active noise cancellation
Yes
Battery life (ANC off)
7 hours buds, 30 hours case
Weight
5.1g buds, 44.3g case
Connectivity
Bluetooth 6.1
Frequency response
Not specified
Waterproofing
IP57
Samsung Galaxy Buds 4 Pro review: Features
(Image credit: Future)
7/30-hour battery life, less with ANC or features
Fantastic ANC, and intelligent ambient mode
Plenty of useful features in app
Samsung doesn’t make as much of a song and dance about its ANC capabilities as, say, Bose (literally calling its headphones ‘QuietComfort’), but the good news is, these are still incredible at reducing background noise. I spent hours of testing near busy roads, while work was being done on my neighbors’ home, and on flights, and found them some of the most adept noise-removers I’ve used.Even better, they have an ambient mode that’s actually good. It does what these modes should do: dampens your surroundings, but retains speech and other important nearby noises. It could be stronger in the noise cancellation department, letting in a little more than I’d always like, but it’s still much better than the vast majority of alternatives.Battery life here is unchanged from the past models: 7 hours of ANC-off listening, with the case granting extra up to 30 hours. That’s not a particularly competitive battery life today, especially when you consider that the listening time is even less with ANC turned on: expect about 4-5 hours in the buds if you try to remove background noise, and even less if you use all the features on offer.Using your smartphone, you can get a few more features from the Buds 4 Pro. You can change noise cancellation modes, toggle what the touch controls do, enable head gestures (nod or shake your head for incoming calls or to Bixby), and setup an on-bud assistant.
(Image credit: Future)
There’s also a nine-band equalizer with a custom mode or several presets, and several ways to customize your sound including 360 audio, loudness normalisation, adaptive listening and a hearing test. This latter is simpler than the alternatives offered by many rivals, and didn’t have an audible impact on music. I’m not convinced by this one.Two other neat features are the ability to set up bespoke per-app settings that automatically apply, and the ability to tap into audio streams around you or broadcast them yourself (including to hearing aids). I can see business or accessibility benefits to both of these, and neither are perks I’m used to seeing in earbuds apps generally.There’s a small handful of extra modes I would’ve liked to see, most glaringly any kind of low-latency mode to make gaming on a phone better. I also couldn’t find a way to enable multipoint pairing.The earbuds use Bluetooth 6.1 for connectivity, which I don’t recall seeing in any earbuds before now. This is apparently meant to offer unparalleled connectivity, although I had a small handful of Bluetooth drop-outs in my testing time.
Features score: 4/5
Samsung Galaxy Buds 4 Pro review: Design
(Image credit: Future)
Redesigned buds are sleek and light
Case sees new look; improvement in a few ways
Eartips are hard to remove and don't stick in ear well
There’s no denying that Galaxy Buds Pro are AirPods Pro-alikes, but with each successive generation Samsung blazes its own trail a little more, and that’s evident in the Galaxy Buds 4 Pro with their reimagined ‘blade’ look.The buds now have a brushed-metal edge, which looks lovely and understated in the white model I tested, and pretty good in the black or pink versions too. Gone are the colorful light strips of the past-gen models, as well as the color coding so you know which bud goes in which side of the case.What hasn’t gone, sadly, is Samsung’s proprietary ear-tip tech – this was a problem in the Buds 3 Pro, and it rears its ugly head here. The issues with this are twofold.
(Image credit: Future)
Firstly, it makes switching ear-tips a real pain, due to the company using its own locking mechanism. It’s hard to remove them without tearing them, something I avoided only by past mistakes (ripping the Buds 3 Pro’s tips), and reattaching them is incredibly fiddly. I imagine the third-party tip market is also greatly reduced thanks to the company eschewing the standard.The second issue is the one that plagued my time with the Buds 4 Pro: they just didn’t stay in my ears very well. They’d slip now and then during testing, requiring readjusting, but the problem was worst when I went running: the things just wouldn’t stay in. This was despite testing the different in-box tip sizes, and at a guess I’d say the papery tip material just isn’t providing enough friction or purchase in the ear. I’d suggest buying replacements, but good luck finding them with the locking mechanisms – manufacturers actually sold clip-on ear fins for the Buds 3 Pro, and if equivalents are released for the new model, that’d be your best bet to stop these things getting jettisoned at every bump.Other than those issues, the buds were comfortable to wear, even for long periods of time. They weigh about 5g each, which is about average for earbuds like these. One of the buds’ features also compensates the sound if you wear them wrong (ie, at bonkers angles like vertically or horizontally).
(Image credit: Future)
The buds have on-stem controls: slide up or down to control volume, pinch once or hold for various other options. You need to grip a little harder than on some alternative options I’ve used, so it took some getting used to, but eventually I found controlling the buds on-ear pretty effective.One other element of the buds package that’s seen a change is the charging case, which now uses a clamshell-style look with a see-through case so you can peer at your buds (and check they’re in there, if you frequently forget to return them to the case. It was much easier to return the buds to this case than the last one, with less fiddling about to insert them into a small gap. Wireless charging is back too.The case was a little blocky though, and not as ergonomic as the Buds 3 Pro’s, so felt a little more prominent in my pocket. The transparent section also shows scratches and fingerprints
Design score: 4/5
Samsung Galaxy Buds 4 Pro review: Sound quality
(Image credit: Future)
Tweeter and woofer, each with own amplifier
Well-defined bass, bustling with energy
Samsung phone needed for highest-res audio
The Galaxy Buds 4 Pro offer two drivers: a tweeter and woofer, and each has its own amplifier. This all means that high- and low- pitch sounds get their own TLC, and Samsung’s big selling point on these new buds is that the woofer is bigger than anything it’s used before, allowing for better control over bass.There’s no denying that the Samsungs provide absolutely fantastic audio quality. The sound is energetic, with crackling mids and powerful treble. Pop songs like the conveniently-released Automatic Glow by The Hoosiers or Dharma Baby by Brett Dennen benefit from the unrivalled clarity and timbre the buds provide, especially songs with plenty of instruments that’d otherwise blur into one giant mush.I personally spent most of my listening time in with the Dynamic EQ preset on, because I found it to exacerbate the Buds 4 Pro’s strengths and reduce their weakness, at least compared to the default preset.
(Image credit: Future)
The bass doesn’t overwhelm, as I initially feared when hearing about the upgrade, and instead it’s just better formed: it’s scooping, well-defined and better balanced with the rest of the sound. Even in bassy songs, like Proleter’s April Showers, bass walks arm-in-arm with the other instruments instead of overriding them, and in DENM’s Life’s 2 Short it succeeds in creating a real harmonising bass, as opposed to some deep rumble that sits alongside the rest of the song.There’s a lovely sense of expanse through the soundstage here too, even if you don’t turn on the Spatial Audio setting, which I personally kept off for most of the testing. And the maximum volume is way higher than you’d ever need to go, which is another plus.There’s one giant catch here: the incredible quality is only available on Samsung phones, thanks to their support for the company’s SSC codec (which has to be enabled in the buds’ settings). This allows for a sample rate of up to 24-bit/96kHz, which means it'll handle lossless playback with ease, but means that non-Samsung users might not be able to enjoy the highest quality music they otherwise would. I spent a week of the testing period using a non-Samsung Android, and while the buds still sound great, they’re certainly better on a Galaxy.
Sound quality: 4.5/5
Samsung Galaxy Buds 4 Pro review: Value
(Image credit: Future)
They ain't cheap!
You can save a lot of money if you want
Good for certain Samsung-owning audiophiles
The Achilles’ Heel of any top-tier pair of earbuds like the Samsung Galaxy Buds 4 Pro, is that there’s no way they offer you superb value for money. You can get decent earbuds for literally a fraction of the price; I have options I love which cost a quarter of what these earbuds will set you back. Sure, they don’t sound or look as good, and miss out loads of the Samsung features, but you’re saving money – and getting options which will stay in your ears!For music lovers who can’t quite afford ‘true’ audiophile options, and have a Samsung phone, perhaps there’s a world in which these are good-value options (compared to the four-figure alternatives). But at the very best, you’re getting what you pay for: this ain’t no bargain.
Value: 3.5/5
Should I buy the Samsung Galaxy Buds 4 Pro?
Fairphone Fairbuds XL (2025) score card
Attributes
Notes
Rating
Features
The battery life lets down an otherwise-impeccable suite of tools.
4/5
Design
The upgraded look gives them a distinct appearance, but the devil's in the detail (and ear-tip).
4/5
Sound quality
These sound wonderful, especially if used alongside a Samsung phone.
4.5/5
Value
These are top-end options, you can't expect total value for money.
3.5/5
Buy them if…
You own a Samsung phone One of my biggest 'cons' doesn't affect you: pick these things up straight away and turn on the high-def audio transmission in the buds' app.
You need top-tier ANC These things are great at wiping out background sounds, and they show some rival buds I've tested recently just how it's done.View Deal
You like responsive touch controls I grew fond of how responsive the Buds 4 Pro's on-stem pinch controls work, as you get a lovely click to tell you your input was successful.View Deal
Don’t buy them if…
You need workout buds The unreliable fit make these a poor choice for runners, and they weren't the best at the gym either.
You listen for long stints With all the top-tier features enabled, the Buds 4 Pro will only go about half a working day on a single charge. Like a lot of music? Other buds last longer.
AirPods Pro 3 Apple's AirPods Pro are still some of the best wireless earbuds for iPhone owners, with fantastic ANC and a few unique features. Read our full AirPods Pro 3 review
Status Audio Pro X If you want great-sounding earbuds and have money to burn, these Status options are another worthy pick, that'll work equally well on any phone. Read ourfull Status Audio Pro X review
How I tested the Samsung Galaxy Buds 4 Pro
Tested for a month
Tested at home, on walks, on public transport, on travels, while running and at the gym
I used the Samsung Galaxy Buds 4 Pro for just under three weeks to write this review. For the most part, they were paired with a Galaxy S26 Ultra, but I also used them briefly with a Galaxy S25 Plus, and for a while before that a OnePlus 15R. For a little while I also connected them to a cheap MP3 player.I used a range of apps to test the buds. They played music from Spotify, Qobuz and internal storage, videos from YouTube, Now and Prime Video, and games from a pretty huge range of mobile titles. I also used them quite a bit just for their noise cancellation, with nothing playing.The Buds 4 Pro are just the latest in a long line of earbuds I’ve used, including the Galaxy Buds 3 Pro and options from Samsung’s sub-brands like AKG, JBL, Bowers & Wilkins and Denon. I’ve also handled loads of phones and tablets from the company, as part of my 7+ years of testing gadgets.
Alongside heroic questing and tear-evoking character arcs, an integral part of any RPG experience is the grinding. From prancing around fields in search of herbs to trawling caves for high-level beasties, this inevitable practice makes up a sizable chunk of any save file.
Review info
Platform reviewed: PC Available on: PS5, Xbox Series X|S, Nintendo Switch 2, PC Release date: March 13, 2026
Monster Hunter Stories 3: Twisted Reflection, the latest addition to Capcom’s beloved creature-catching dynasty, doesn’t shy away from this reality, providing moreish mechanical loops and plenty of side stories as you explore its glorious fantasy adventure.
Set in the pastoral kingdom of Azuria, you play as the prince or, in my case, the princess of the land, who, on top of their royal duties, acts as the leader of the Rangers, a group of eco-conscious warriors who maintain the land.
One day, during a routine realm-protecting venture, a group of troops from the less-than-thriving neighbouring kingdom of Vermeil is spotted, leading to a tense standoff between the two nations. What ensues is a complex action-packed role-playing game (RPG) that leads the regal heir to the throne down a pithy rabbit hole, opening up questions about their past as they venture beyond the edges of their home in search of answers.
One more troubling wrinkle here is that on top of the bureaucratic chaos, rogue monsters are becoming infected with a strange crystal sickness that turns them into raging, psychopathic beasts – very unfortunate timing. Over the runtime, these dual investigations start to intertwine, with Twisted Reflection culminating in an emotional finale I thoroughly enjoyed working towards.
A heavy helping of exposition and a host of time-consuming tutorials mean this expedition starts off slow, and seasoned Monster Hunter Stories players will likely need to button mash through much of this to get to the juicy turn-based meat. Still, if you’re new to the IP or this turn-based iteration, you’ll be well taken care of here.
The Wild Hunt
(Image credit: Capcom)
Unlike the mainline Monster Hunter series, Stories switches up combat, cleverly adapting the high-octane experience into a much more friendly turn-based one.
You’ll still need to target specific body parts of monsters, and use the right weapon to break foot bones, puncture inflatable necks, and break down health bars until the monster stops budging. Notably, you’ll have plenty of time to decide how to deconstruct your prey without fear of them running off or slaughtering you mercilessly. Important disclaimer, though — even with the extra time on your side, they still might.
In combat, you control yourself and your monster, sharing hearts in the process, though you’ll often fight with compatriots from the Rangers team, too. Each member specialises in a type of support, with the adorable pink-haired Thea offering a higher critical hit rate with the caveat of lower defence, where the chiselled Gaul tends to heal up your party with his utility belt of items.
Picking a solid ally is extremely important to success, especially as you face more feral opponents down the line. While you’ll inevitably stumble along the way to finding your perfect match, the process is gratifying nonetheless, with failure never feeling too punishing.
Best bit
(Image credit: Capcom)
Nurturing digital pets can be hard work, but it’s extremely fulfilling. Twisted Reflection provides another opportunity for players to raise a lineage of virtual beings, procuring them in egg form and coaching them to become lovable killing machines. With six menacing protege pets in your pocket, you can name, train, and gleefully ride them acrossshifting horizons, bonding with your new buddies all the while.
As you can tell, I thoroughly enjoyed Twisted Reflections’ combat, and, beyond the expected elemental attacks, buffs, debuffs, and stamina bar to contend with, there is a standout feature here – the attack type system.
A carryover from the previous Monster Hunter Stories games, this system plays a lot like rock, paper, scissors, but instead of losing to a friend, your life is on the line. During a battle, you and your prey have a chance to target each other, leading to a nerve-racking head-to-head.
If you correctly guess the beast's type – between Power, Technical, and Speed – and deal the opposing damage type, you have a chance to boost your destructive power. However, if you lose, you’ll take more damage as a result. The more you fend off enemies, the more you’ll get a feel for countering attacks, which leads to a satisfying cycle that encourages you to take risks and bet on yourself.
Combat is more than just a means to an XP end, though, and you’ll also earn some handy monster parts which can be crafted into gear to fortify your stats. From a technical perspective, I found great joy in recycling guts and scales into bows and armour, with beloved monsters like the Chatacabra and Nerscylla reimagined into stylish defensive garb and weapons.
Perhaps the greatest aspect of this process, though, is that what you craft carries the visual markers of monster parts, too. Ergo, if you cook up the leftovers from a fight with a Kut Kut into gear, your fit will have a distinct orange-scaled look. There’s a lot to love about these hectic designs, particularly as the outfit you choose will show up in cutscenes, leading to some unintentionally hilarious interactions.
What’s most important, though, is that it provides you with a reason to go out and hunt specific creatures beyond story progression and XP alone, which is important as you glide towards the challenging late game.
Dragon Quest
(Image credit: Capcom)
Over the course of this expansive journey, you’ll venture into fresh biomes like jungles and deserts, sneaking peeks and battling against a wider variety of creatures. If you aren’t familiar with Monster Hunter, the series has always made an effort to ensure the eponymous monsters feel at home where you find them, and I’m happy to note that Twisted Reflection is no different.
Where the lakes and rivers of each biome house aquatic creatures like the salamander-esque Ludthroth or bulldog-faced Somnacanth, the plains feature packs of scrappy scavengers like the Velocidrome. These touches ensure the world has a lived-in feel, as if it existed long before you decided to drop in and start swinging your sword.
It’s clever that the creatures in your party are held to the same standard, and to reach the peaks and valleys of each area, you’ll have to switch between rides – your winged steed isn’t going to take a dip just because you want to collect some herbs. It’s a shame, then, that the platforming can be extremely hit-and-miss.
I lost count of how many times I fell off a solid edge, plummeting from tree stumps or slipping off a vertical cliff, only to have to scale whole mountains again. Invisible walls appear out of nowhere, too, swiftly taking you out of the fantasy. Given all the intentionally immersive features, it’s a shame that a game so geared toward exploration struggles to make the process fun in the long term.
(Image credit: Capcom)
Side quests appear periodically across the saga, bolstering the story by reminding you that, on top of the impending threat of crystallised super monsters, you have a duty as a ranger, too. The missions are fairly simple fetch quests for the most part, sending you off to find specific monster eggs or herbs with some cute moments peppered in.
Thankfully, there are more focused friendship quests to complete, too, that feel much more thoughtfully written and allow you to embed in Twisted Reflection’s world and build richer relationships with the other rangers in your squad. Here you’ll get to know Kora, the tough warrior with a harrowing history, and Ogden, a warm if not eccentric father figure within the group.
If you don’t complete them as they appear, the story's pacing goes off kilter a touch, and you’ll find yourself warped back to maps that you almost certainly shouldn’t be visiting in context to the story at large. Still, if you can suspend your disbelief, the stories are silly and heartwarming, bolstered by spirited vocal performances from the game’s cast.
Should you play Monster Hunter Stories 3: Twisted Reflection?
Play it if...
You’re looking for a lengthy RPG set in a rich fantasy land Monster Hunter 3 Stories: Twisted Reflection is a fantastic adventure, flush with fantasy fetch quests and heartwarming side stories to boot. Completionists will have hours upon hours of content at their fingertips.
You like the lore of the Monster Hunter series, but don’t love the speedy combat Monster Hunter Stories trades the real-time combat of the mainline series for a much more approachable turn-based system. While there are quick-time events in battle, there is still ample time to react if you’re an anxious player.
Don't play it if...
You aren’t keen on grinding for XP While there are plenty of side quests to check out, as well as a rogues' gallery of monsters to find, inevitably, you will need to grind out battles to level up your team. It’s not egregious by any means, but it is a core part of the experience.
Accessibility features
You can access Monster Hunter Stories 3: Twisted Reflection’s settings anytime from the pause menu. There’s a Controller and Mouse and Keyboard submenu where you can rebind keys for traversal, battling, and cutscenes to suit your preferences. In the Options submenu is you can toggle font size for subtitles and adjust cutscene dialogue to display speaker names. You can also adjust your minimap to rotate with the camera's orientation or remain fixed.
Where objectives are concerned, you can tweak the quest marker to always be on and choose to have a caution icon appear when you approach monsters of a much higher level than you own. Those struggling in combat can also choose to have a hint message appear if they lose in certain battles.
(Image credit: Capcom)
How I reviewed Monster Hunter Stories 3: Twisted Reflection
We played Monster Hunter Stories 3: Twisted Reflection’s main campaign on PC for over fifty hours. During that time, we invested in the side quests, Ranger stories, and the habitat rehabilitation portion of the game, in addition to the main questline.
It was completed on a Lenovo Legion 5 Gen 10 (RTX 5070) with the internal speakers for audio. A mouse and keyboard were used intermittently, while the campaign was primarily played with an Xbox Wireless Controller.
