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Finally, a gaming chair that does things differently – but I’m not sure I can stomach the cost
4:00 pm | July 26, 2025

Author: admin | Category: Computers Gadgets Gaming | Tags: , | Comments: Off

Quersus ICOS.2: One-minute review

The Quersus ICOS.2 is a striking gaming chair with a few unique features that help it stand out even more in the homogeneous gaming chair space.

The slender frame and sharp angles certainly look different, but despite this, the ICOS.2 remains quite formal. True to the brand’s claim, it wouldn’t look out of place in an office.

Overall build quality is quite good. The velvet upholstery on my review unit was incredibly soft, eclipsing even the best gaming chair fabrics in terms of feel. The wheel base is a highlight, although some of the plastics in other areas are less impressive, and the arm rests are prone to wobbling.

There are a few unconventional features on the ICOS.2. For a start, there’s no head pillow, but rather an integrated, adjustable headrest. I personally found this very comfortable, but its lack of give and inability to lower it to neck-level might deter some users.

Another unique aspect of the ICOS.2 is the ability to slide the seat base back and forth – an adjustment usually absent from gaming chairs. Naturally, you can also adjust seat height, and the minimum setting is pleasingly low to the ground – but the maximum will likely prove disappointingly short for tall users.

There’s also no traditional recline function on the ICOS.2. What you get instead is a tilt function that allows the backrest to lean back to a large degree, with a generous amount of resistance adjustments. There’s also a dial to lock and unlock the tilt angle in position. In my view, this tilt function does a fine job of making up for the omission of a recline system.

Integrated lumbar support is featured in the ICOS.2, too, which can be adjusted for height and depth. The range for the latter is good, and the dial is very easy to use, even while seated. The height range is more limited, and you seem to sacrifice lumbar depth the lower down it goes, which isn’t ideal.

Overall comfort is good, with plenty of padding and space on both the seat and the backrest to remain comfortable for long periods.

Assembling the ICOS.2 was a straightforward process. It came in two boxes, both neatly packaged, and included a large handle with two magnetically attachable hex keys. I could attach the seat to the backrest while both laid on the floor, which made the process easier.

At over £600 (it's unfortunately only available in the UK and EU right now), the ICOS.2 is mighty expensive, eclipsing even the biggest names in the business. And despite its standout features, I don’t think it’s better value than the Secretlab Titan Evo 2022, for instance, which is still the leading light in the gaming chair world.

Close-up of headrest on Quersus ICOS.2 with pink wall in background

(Image credit: Future)

Quersus ICOS.2 review: Price and availability

  • £649 (around $870 / AU$1340)
  • Available in UK and EU only
  • Expensive end of the market

The ICOS.2 costs £649 (around $870 / AU$1340) and is available now in the UK and EU, in one size only. Various colorways can be had if you opt for the fabric upholstery, but the faux leather finish is currently only available in black. You can also personalize the headrest for an additional £25. The chair comes with a five-year warranty, which is very competitive.

However, the ICOS.2 is on the more expensive end of the gaming chair spectrum, and considering the competition in this space, it's a big ask. It costs more than the Secretlab Titan Evo 2022, which we think is the best gaming chair around, and I don’t think the ICOS.2 beats it on every front.

If you’re looking for a budget option, the Corsair TC100 Relaxed is one of the best in this regard. It’s comfortable and well-designed, although some parts don’t exactly feel premium – but that’s to be expected at this price.

Quersus ICOS.2 review: Specs

Price

£649 (around $870 / AU$1340)

Dimensions

54.7 x 29.1 x 22.7in / 139 x 74 x 55cm

Max user weight

330lbs / 150kg

Min seat height

17.7in / 45cm

Seat width

20.9in / 53cm

Recline angle

140 degrees

Warranty

5 years

Material

Leatherette, fabric (velvet)

Quersus ICOS.2 review: Design and aesthetics

  • Unique look and features
  • Cheap in places
  • Flimsy arms

The ICOS.2 sets itself apart from other gaming chairs with its streamlined figure. The seat and backrest are much thinner than you might expect, and the various sharp angles wouldn’t look out of place on a stealth jet.

At the same time, though, the ICOS.2 is also quite understated, especially in the monochromatic finishes. Quersus pitches this chair as being suitable for both gaming and working environments, and I think it’s struck this balance well in terms of design.

The velvet finish I had in my review unit felt super soft. It’s also water-repellent and seems fitted to a high standard. However, certain aspects of the ICOS.2 feel a little cheap by comparison. Many of the plastics don’t look or feel as expensive, and the sharp rim of the backrest frame where it meets the upholstery is an oversight.

Some of the adjustment levers are a little flimsy, although thankfully, this doesn’t affect their operation. The lateral wobble of armrests is a little more concerning, although this shouldn’t present a problem under normal usage. They feel more plush and forgiving than many other armrests, which is good since you’ll be in constant contact with them.

The wheel base also seems built to a high standard, with its metal construction feeling sturdy yet light, at least compared to others. I appreciated the rounded ends of the spokes, too, as these make it somewhat less painful if you stub your heels into them.

The casters complement the base well: their gloss finish and hollowed-out centers are nice touches, and they’re also conducive to smooth glides – although there’s more grip than you might expect on carpeted surfaces, which helps to keep the chair stable.

Close-up of stitched badge on seat of Quersus ICOS.2 that reads 'ICOS.2 Edition 2024'

(Image credit: Future)

Quersus ICOS.2 review: Comfort and Adjustability

  • Seat base depth adjustments
  • No recline, only tilt
  • Shallow height adjustments

Despite the perceived lack of padding, the seat of the ICOS.2 provided me with enough cushioning to remain comfortable in it for extended periods. It’s also wide and there are no side bolsters, which means it should accommodate a variety of body shapes and seating styles with ease.

The backrest is just as soft and comfortable, and the bolsters here open out wide, so I didn’t feel hemmed in, and there was no danger of knocking them with elbows – a pet peeve of mine with gaming chairs.

One of the unique features of the ICOS.2 is its headrest. Rather than including a separate pillow, head support is integrated within the backrest and can be adjusted for height by sliding it up and down. There’s no lever or button to hold down while doing this, though, which means it requires a fair amount of force to make these adjustments.

Although it doesn’t protrude all that much compared to more traditional gaming chair head pillows, I still found it comfortable and supportive; in fact, I was thankful for the minimal protrusion, as I often find pillows too thick.

One of the drawbacks of this system, though, is the lack of versatility. With head pillows, you can place them lower down if you wish to give your neck more support. You can also remove them altogether if you find them uncomfortable. Neither of these options is available to you here.

What you think might be the recline lever on the left side is actually used to slide the seat forwards and backwards. This is rather unique in the world of gaming chairs, and a welcome addition for those who prize good seating ergonomics.

If you want to recline in the ICOS.2, then you’ll have to use its tilt function instead, unlocked via a dial on the left. The seat only tilts back slightly, whereas the backrest tilts all the way to 140 degrees.

You can then lock the backrest into your desired position with said left dial. In effect, then, this tilt function replaces the more traditional recline function of other gaming chairs, and it does a good job of doing so – although some rocking still remains after you’ve locked the tilt mechanism in your desired position, so it’s not the most robust of mechanisms.

On the right, you’ll find the dial for adjusting the resistance of the tilt. I found this stiff to turn and awkward to reach, owing to the lack of outward protrusion. However, it does at least provide a generous range of resistance levels.

Close-up of adjustment dial on Quersus ICOS.2 with pink wall in background

(Image credit: Future)

The ICOS.2 also features integrated lumbar support, which can be adjusted for both height and protrusion, which I’m always thankful to see, since some systems only allow for depth alterations.

A single dial is used for both adjustments, which is located on the back right-hand side of the backrest. I found it easy enough to reach and use while seated, although I can imagine some may struggle.

The dial has an ergonomic shape that helps with twists, and the subtle rubberized finish makes it easy to grip. It turns much easier than the tilt resistance dial and other lumbar dials I’ve experienced. It feels more like loosening or tightening a screw, becoming less resistant the further inward the lumbar retracts.

The range of depth adjustments it offers is good, too. And unlike other integrated lumbar systems I’ve experienced, the one on the ICOS.2 doesn’t feel as sharp; it seems to offer more cushioning than is typical.

To adjust the height of the lumbar, you pull out the dial first before turning. As with the depth adjustments, these turns feel easy to make, although the range of positions is limited. Also, when the lumbar is at its lowest position, it feels as if the depth retracts somewhat, leading to a feeling of less support.

The seat of the ICOS.2 can go lower to the ground than many other gaming chairs I’ve tried, but it might not rise enough to meet the needs of taller folk. This is disappointing considering Quersus’ claim that the ICOS.2 has a universal fit, and suggests that a larger version won’t be coming.

The arms on the ICOS.2 can be adjusted across four dimensions. Their height range should be sufficient for most to get comfortable, but the width range is quite limited; personally, I would’ve liked them to be able to move inwards more.

There are no levers or buttons you have to hold when moving the arms inwards or outwards, back and forth, or when rotating their angle. This means adjusting them requires a fair amount of force, which causes rather loud clicks as various mechanisms ratchet through their notches. As a result, it feels quite clunky to make these adjustments.

One positive aspect of the arm rests, aside from their aforementioned padding, is that they can easily be removed and replaced with other designs, varying in their shape and material, which Quersus says it’s currently in the process of creating.

Quersus ICOS.2 review: Assembly

Assembling the ICOS.2 proved to be relatively easy. The unit came in two separate boxes that were very neatly packaged, and included is a large handle and two magnetically attached hex wrenches

I managed to build it solo without trouble. You can attach the seat base to the backrest while both are resting on the floor, which alleviates one of the most laborious aspects of putting together a gaming chair.

One of the hardest parts of the build was attaching the casters to the seat base, as I found the fit quite tight. But this is a minor grievance, all things considered. The chair isn’t too heavy, either, at least when compared to other gaming chairs.

Close-up of wheelbase on Quersus ICOS.2 rug and wooden floor

(Image credit: Future)

Should I buy the Quersus ICOS.2?

Buy it if...

You want an integrated headrest
I really liked the adjustable headrest, offering enough support and adjustability to get comfortable.

You want to adjust seat depth
Not many gaming chairs allow you to alter the seat depth, which ergonomists will tell you is an important aspect to consider.

Don't buy it if...

You want to save money
There’s no doubt that the ICOS.2 is expensive, even by gaming chair standards, and there are better value alternatives if you don’t need the niche features

You want a traditional recline
While the tilt function admirably makes up for the lack of a traditional recline, some might not like it.

Quersus ICOS.2: Also consider

If the ICOS.2 doesn't sound right for you, here are some alternatives to consider instead:

Quersus ICOS.2

Secretlab Titan Evo 2022 (Regular)

Corsair TC100 Relaxed

Price

£649 (about $870 / AU$1340)

$549 / £469 / AU$799

$199 / £199 / AU$399

Dimensions

54.7 x 29.1 x 22.7in / 139 x 74 x 55cm

51.2 x 27.6 x 19.3in / 130 x 70 x 49cm

53.5 x 23.4 x 19.7 in / 136 x 59 x 50cm

Max user weight

330lbs / 150kg

285lbs / 130kg

264lbs / 120kg

Min seat height

17.7in / 45cm

17.7in / 45cm

17.7 inches / 45cm

Seat width

20.9in / 53cm

18.5in / 47cm

21.2in / 54cm (incl. bolsters), 14.2in / 36cm (excl. bolsters)

Recline angle

140 degrees

165 degrees

160 degrees

Warranty

5 years

3 years

2 years

Material

Leatherette, fabric (velvet)

Leatherette, fabric

Leatherette, fabric

Secretlab Titan Evo 2022
Still the undisputed king of the gaming chair world, the Titan Evo 2022 does it all: it has the looks, build quality, and comfort levels to satisfy any gamer. It isn’t cheap, and certain editions carry astronomical price tags, but no gaming chair has yet been able to topple the Titan Evo 2022 from its perch.

Read our full Secretlab Titan Evo 2022 review

Corsair TC100 Relaxed
If you want to spend considerably less on a gaming chair, the TC100 Relaxed is one of the best in the budget category. Its build quality might not be up to the standards of its peers, but for the money it’s an admirable chair that offers sufficient levels of comfort to enjoy gaming for long periods.

Read our full Corsair TC100 Relaxed review

Close-up of right arm rest on Quersus ICOS.2 with pink wall in background

(Image credit: Future)

How I tested the Quersus ICOS.2

  • Tested for two days
  • Tried all available adjustments
  • Extensive gaming chair experience

I tested the ICOS.2 for a few days. I made sure to make all of its available adjustments, and tried various seating positions and styles to comprehensively assess its performance across different scenarios.

I have been gaming for decades, and during that time, I’ve used a number of gaming and office chairs, ranging from budget affairs to premium offerings. I have also reviewed a number of gaming chairs, too, ranging in their designs and price points.

Audio Pro Addon C10 MkII review: WiiM addition fixes the wireless speakers’ only minor issue
1:00 pm |

Author: admin | Category: Audio Computers Gadgets Hi-Fi Speakers | Comments: Off

Audio Pro Addon C10 MkII: Two -minute review

Update September 19, 2025: WiiM and Audio Pro have contacted TechRadar to clarify that contrary to the initial September 4 announcement about a big Audio Pro WiiM-powered wireless speaker rollout, Audio Pro's new range of speakers aside from the C10 you're reading about here and the new A10 should no longer be described as "powered by WiiM" and instead "powered by LinkPlay", which is the parent company of WiiM. Audio Pro's new speaker range does not integrate with the WiiM ecosystem, and does not have direct WiiM support.

The release states: "For further clarity, the only Audio Pro speakers that are powered by WiiM and integrated with the WiiM Home app are the A10 and C10, WiiM Edition speakers, available exclusively via WiiM’s Amazon storefront."

To explore how WiiM compares to Sonos as a multi-room option, read this guide to the current state of both platforms. The rest of this review remains as written.

The Audio Pro Addon C10 MkII is a predictably good-looking wireless speaker with plenty going for it purely in design terms (as long as you're OK with monochrome). It’s lost its handle and its Amazon Alexa voice control compared with the original model, but it’s gained a swanky new streaming platform (thanks, WiiM!) which offers an absolute stack of options where music sources and system flexibility are concerned.

Best of all, it’s a fine-sounding speaker that is able to extract an absolute stack of information from a recording and put it into convincing context. It’s punchy when it needs to be, it’s insightful, and it sounds a heck of a lot bigger than it looks. Deft control of the low frequencies, plenty of midrange articulacy and a winning way with dynamic variations all add to its sonic charm. If it was just a little more vibrant and exciting when the music demanded it, the Audio Pro Addon C10 MkII would be absolutely ideal, but it is nevertheless worthy of a place among the best wireless speakers out there.

Top panel of the Audio Pro Addon C10 MkII wireless speakers, on a white surface

(Image credit: Future / Simon Lucas)

Audio Pro Addon C10 MkII review: Price and release date

  • Cost $360 / £259 / AU$699 (approx.)
  • Launched in 2021

When the Audio Pro Addon C10 MkII first launched back in 2021, it cost $450 / £329 / AU$749 (approx.).

Fast-forward to today, and not only has this product become even more compelling thanks to upgrades in its streaming support and smart features, but it’s also routinely available for $360 / £259 / AU$699 (approx.). It looks like rather than becoming outdated, the C10 MkII has matured and evolved…

Audio Pro Addon C10 MkII review: Features

  • 80 watts of power
  • Dual-band Wi-Fi and Bluetooth 4.2
  • Numerous streaming options

It’s fair to say that Bluetooth 4.2 with SBC and AAC codec compatibility is not the most inspiring specification for a wireless speaker in 2025. But what the Audio Pro Addon C10 MkII lacks in cutting-edge Bluetooth chops, it more than makes up for in its wireless network abilities.

The exemplary control app, which is now bolted to WiiM’s extremely well-regarded streaming platform, allows you to integrate a lot of music streaming services – and I mean a lot: Amazon and Apple Music, Deezer and Spotify, Qobuz and Tidal, QQ Music, iHeart Radio and vTuner, and plenty more besides. The C10 MkII is compatible with Apple AirPlay 2 and Google Chromecast, and the app allows the speaker to be half of a stereo pair or part of a multi-room system without any fuss whatsoever. It’s an extremely flexible device.

Once aboard, digital audio information is processed by a 24bit/96kHz DAC and then is breathed on by 80 watts of Class D amplification. A pair of 19mm tweeters get 20 watts of power each, and in between them there’s a 133mm midrange driver that receives the other 40 watts. This bigger driver is supported by a rear-facing vertical bass reflex port.

  • Features score: 4.5 / 5

Control app screenshots for the Audio Pro Addon C10 MkII wireless speakers

(Image credit: Future / Simon Lucas)

Audio Pro Addon C10 MkII review: Sound quality

Audio Pro Addon C10 MkII wireless speakers on a white surface

(Image credit: Future / Simon Lucas)
  • Open, detailed and well-controlled sound
  • Great tonal balance and frequency response
  • Could sound a little more exciting

Yes, by the standards for $350-ish wireless speakers the Audio Pro Addon C10 MkII is quite large. But be assured the sound it creates is plenty larger than the cabinet it’s coming from.

The sort of scale the Audio Pro can invest in a FLAC file of Hookworms’ Negative Space is straightforwardly impressive. It can open the recording out and offer a proper sense of space at the same time, even though the point-source of sound is always obvious. The amount of dynamic headroom that’s available allows the speaker to track the ever-increasing intensity of the recording convincingly, and the control of the lowest frequencies is such that rhythmic expression is confident and naturalistic, too.

And as well as being controlled with real authority, the bottom end – like the rest of the frequency range – is loaded with detail and variation. The C10 MkII is no thumper – it hits good and hard at the low end, but is textured and tonally varied. The same is true at the opposite end, where treble sounds are bright and substantial, with plenty of information available regarding tone, attack and decay. Through the midrange, the Audio Pro is about as explicit and as eloquent as any device of its type and price I’ve heard. It communicates in absolute torrents.

The tonal balance is nicely judged – it’s not absolutely neutral, but the tiny suggestion of warmth (especially towards the bottom end) is almost certainly sensible in the context of the circumstances the C10 MkII will probably be used in. The evenness of the frequency response is splendid, too, giving measured and appropriate weighting to every part of the tonal range, without underplaying or overstating any particular area.

Really, about the only area of mild concern where the sound of this speaker is concerned has little to do with the specifics of performance – it’s more about attitude. For all of its undoubted dynamic potency and ability to paint a full and nicely detailed picture, the Audio Pro is not the most demonstrative listen.

It sounds quite like it looks: sophisticated, understated and in unarguable good taste. This, where audio quality is concerned, can be considered shorthand for ‘slight lack of excitement’. No one is interested in a feral loudspeaker, of course, but at those moments when a recording demands vigor and attack, I get the strong impression the C10 MkII thinks this kind of behavior is a little beneath it.

  • Sound quality score: 4.5 / 5

Audio Pro Addon C10 MkII review: Design

Audio Pro Addon C10 MkII wireless speakers, with a magnetic grille, on a white surface

(Image credit: Future / Simon Lucas)
  • 165 x 320 x 185mm (HxWxD)
  • Black, white or gray matte finishes
  • Magnetically attached grille

The Audio Pro Addon C10 MkII is, by the standards of a ‘rectangular box’ wireless speaker, very nicely finished and actually quite elegant in an understated sort of way.

This is just as well – given the 165 x 320 x 185mm (HxWxD) dimensions, it could have very easily ended up looking a bit bulky. As it is, though, the standard of construction and finish, along with the unapologetically monotone options of black, gray or white matte colours, make for a very harmonious look. The magnetically attached grille helps with the clean look, too.

It’s a fairly sizeable proposition on the average desk, though, and the lack of a handle makes transporting its 4.3kg weight rather less easy than it might be. I can’t deny I’ve used the bass reflex port as a handle, but I can’t imagine Audio Pro would recommend it as an option…

  • Design score: 5 / 5

Audio Pro Addon C10 MkII review: Usability and setup

Audio Pro Addon C10 MkII wireless speakers control panel

(Image credit: Future / Simon Lucas)
  • Great control app, extensive physical controls
  • No voice control
  • Can easily be part of a multi-room set-up

Unlike the previous generation of C10, there’s no Amazon Alexa voice control here – there’s no voice control at all, in fact. You may count this as a negative, you may not, but there’s no denying that your other control options are very nicely realized indeed.

That WiiM-powered control app, as already mentioned, is stable, logical and slick in operation. As well as the ability to integrate a generous number of music streaming services and internet radio providers, it’s also where you can form a stereo pair or establish a multi-room system. There’s bass and treble adjustment, the ability to establish as many as half a dozen presets, input selection, the ability to check for firmware updates and various timer and alarm-clock functions.

The top surface of the cabinet features a selection of controls, too, embedded in a tactile steel plate. Power, volume, playback control and Bluetooth pairing are all available here, and access to the six presets you’ve defined in the control app are also available. There’s also a little LED giving confirmation of the selected input.

  • Usability and setup score: 4.5 / 5

Audio Pro Addon C10 MkII review: Value

Rear panel of the Audio Pro Addon C10 MkII wireless speakers, featuring USB input, and charging port.

(Image credit: Future / Simon Lucas)
  • Excellent standard of finish
  • Versatile streaming platform and app
  • Extras add up to value for money

Consider the standard of build and finish, and then consider the out-and-out sound quality. Take into account the great new WiiM-powered streaming platform and all its possibilities, from forming a true stereo pair to easily creating a multi-room system.

And then look around at what this kind of money can buy you from alternative brands. Yes, the Audio Pro Addon C10 MkII is very good value for money indeed.

  • Value score: 4.5 / 5

Should you buy the Audio Pro Addon C10 MkII?

Audio Pro Addon C10 MkII score card

Attributes

Notes

Rating

Features

Wi-Fi connectivity, Bluetooth (albeit 4.2 with SBC and AAC codec) and WiiM’s excellent streaming platform.

4.5 / 5

Sound quality

Open, detailed and well-controlled, but could be a little more exciting.

4.5 / 5

Design

Three possible matte finishes, sizeable with carry handle removed, magnetically attached grille.

5 / 5

Usability and setup

Great control app, extensive physical controls, can be part of a multi-room set-up.

4.5 / 5

Value

Not cheap, but extras provide added value to make the expense more than worth it.

4.5 / 5

Buy it if...

You admire a bit of Scandi design
‘Elegance’ is in the eye of the beholder, of course, but there’s no denying the Audio Pro is a bit of a looker.

You enjoy slick operability
Co-opting WiiM’s streaming platform has turned the C10 MkII into a very versatile and easy-to-use speaker indeed.

You know the devil is in the details
By the standards of their price-comparable rivals, the Audio Pro is able to resolve a heck of a lot of fine detail.

Don't buy it if...

You’re after sonic fireworks
There’s plenty to recommend the sound of the C10 MkII, but ‘excitement’ is not an area of expertise.

You think life should be Technicolor
One person’s ‘understated’ is another’s ‘boring’, and if you don’t like black, or white, or gray, then you’re going to be struggling here.

Audio Pro Addon C10 MkII: Also consider

JBL Authentics 200
If you fancy a bit of retro charm rather than Scandi cool, the JBL Authentics 200 will be just the thing. It's got that JBL sound (punchy, driving and forceful), that JBL look (fully mid-70s hi-fi heyday) and is nothing if not fully featured. See our full JBL Authentics 200 review for more.

Apple HomePod 2
If you’re already deep in the iOS ecosystem, the Apple HomePod 2 is a great-sounding option, although it lacks some features most alternatives consider ‘essential’.
Here's our full Apple HomePod 2 review to add to the pile.

How I tested the Audio Pro Addon C10 MkII

Because the C10 MkII is mains-powered rather than battery-powered, I listened to it exclusively in my home. It’s a bit big for a desktop speaker, but nevertheless I gave it a go – it was much more at home on a shelf in the lounge, though.

I listened to music from Tidal and Qobuz via the excellent control app, of many types and quite a few different file sizes. And I listened both critically and with the Audio Pro functioning simply as a ‘background’ device – and there were never less than thoroughly enjoyable.

  • First reviewed: July 2025
I tested TCL’s new flagship mini-LED TV, and for this price it’s going to be hard to beat
9:00 pm | July 25, 2025

Author: admin | Category: Computers Gadgets Televisions | Tags: , , , | Comments: Off

TCL QM8K: Two-minute review

The TCL QM8K is the company’s flagship mini-LED TV for 2025, and it brings several refinements over last year’s TCL QM851G, which was the brightest TV we’d ever tested at the time. The QM8K also delivers high brightness via a new Super High Energy LED Chip. Still, that brightness is now balanced with a Halo Control System, a 23-bit backlight controller, and a Dynamic Light Algorithm to ensure that pictures also have solid contrast and deep, detailed shadows.

The improvements made to the TCL QM8K make it one of the best TVs for movies, but its anti-reflection screen and new Ultra Wide Angle feature also make it perfect for sports. Not only do you get a very bright picture, but its anti-reflection coating lets you watch without having to worry about screen glare, while the Ultra Wide Angle feature means that groups can gather around the screen and everyone will experience the same picture quality no matter where they are sitting.

TCL tapped speaker Danish speaker maker Bang & Olufsen to design the QM8K’s built-in speaker system, which supports both Dolby Atmos and DTS Virtual:X. Audio by Bang & Olufsen on the QM8K entails a ‘Beosonic’ equalization interface that lets you tune the sound using categories like Bright or Relaxed, as opposed to typical EQ options. Overall, the QM8K’s built-in sound is good for a TV, though it’s unsurprisingly light on bass and dynamics.

The QM8K’s Ultra Slim design uses a Zero Border bezel that reduces the distance between the TV’s edge and the actual picture to a mere 3.4mm. It has a more premium look than many TVs, and models up to 85 inches all get a sturdy pedestal stand with adjustable height to clear space for a soundbar.

Google TV is used for the QM8K’s smart TV platform, and it’s a serviceable one, but also one that serves up ads. A quick menu lets you easily access basic picture and other settings, and Google TV’s Live program guide can incorporate broadcast channels pulled in by the QM8K’s ATSC 3.0 ‘NextGen TV’ tuner.

Gaming is well represented on the QM8K with 4K 144Hz support, though that refresh rate is only supported on two of the TV’s four HDMI ports. A Game Accelerator 288 VRR feature also lets you double the TV’s native 144Hz refresh rate for 1080p resolution gaming. The QM8K’s 13.2ms input lag would be considered an average level for most TVs, though most gamers should be perfectly satisfied with its gaming performance.

Value is a strong point with the QM8K. TCL’s current discounted $1,599 price for the 65-inch model is several hundred dollars less than the 65-inch Samsung QN90F, and it offers many of the same features, including an anti-reflection screen and Ultra Wide Angle feature. But it's also more expensive than the Hisense U8QG, another super-bright mini-LED TV with impressive picture quality.

TCL QM8K review: Price and release date

TCL QM8K showing image of sunset

The QM8K's powerful contrast and wide color gamut coverage results in rich-looking color (Image credit: Future)
  • Release date: May 2025
  • 65-inch: $2,499.99
  • 75-inch: $3,199.99
  • 85-inch: $3,799.99
  • 98-inch: $6,499.99

Similar to its TCL QM851G predecessor, the new TCL QM8K series is available in 65- to 98-inch screen sizes. All QM8K sizes launched at a higher list price than the preceding models, but have since dropped significantly, with the 65-inch version I tested now widely selling for $1,599.

With its reduced pricing, the QM8K is now more competitive with the Hisense U8QG, which is that company’s flagship mini-LED TV series. The 65-inch U8QG dropped to $1,299 during the time I was reviewing the TCL QM8K. Another close mini-LED competitor for the QM8K is the Samsung QN90F, a 2025 model that has since dropped in price to $1,999 for the 65-inch model.

TCL QM8K review: Specs

Screen type:

QLED with mini-LED

Refresh rate:

144Hz

HDR support:

Dolby Vision, HDR10+, HDR10, HLG

Audio support:

Dolby Atmos, DTS Virtual:X

Smart TV:

Google TV

HDMI ports:

4 (2x HDMI 2.1)

Built-in tuner:

ATSC 3.0

TCL QM8K review: Benchmark results

Hisense U8QG review: Features

TCL QM8K side panel ports

The QM8K has two HDMI 2.1 ports with 4K 144Hz support, plus two HDMI 2.0 ports (Image credit: Future)
  • Ultra Wide Viewing Angle
  • Dolby Vision IQ, HDR10+, HDR10, and HLG support
  • Audio by Bang & Olufsen

The TCL QM8K series uses a new CrystGlow WHVA Panel with TCL’s Halo Control System. To decipher all that, it’s a QLED display with a mini-LED backlight that uses a Super High Energy LED Chip for increased brightness, along with a reduced optical distance between the light modules and display panel. The Halo Control System in QM8K series TVs also feature a 23-bit backlight controller for more precise local dimming, which is helped by a Dynamic Light Algorithm.

Two other CrystGlow WHVA Panel features are a Zero Border display that reduces the distance between the TV’s edge to the actual image down to 3.4mm, and Ultra Wide Viewing Angle, which provides a 40% improvement in off-axis picture uniformity compared to last year’s TCL QM851G series, according to TCL.

QM8K series TVs feature up to 3,800 local dimming zones and up to 5,000 nits specified brightness. An anti-reflective screen is also provided to reduce screen glare when viewing in bright rooms.

HDR support on the QM8K series includes the Dolby Vision IQ, HDR10+, HDR10, and HLG formats. The TVs are also IMAX Enhanced and they provide a Filmmaker Mode picture preset – a new feature for TCL TVs in 2025.

The Audio by Bang & Olufsen built-in speaker system on QM8K series TVs supports Dolby Atmos and DTS Virtual:X. No specific speaker configuration or wattage information is supplied in TCL’s specifications, but there are upfiring Atmos speakers on the TV’s top edge, along with dual subwoofers on the rear panel.

Like other TCL TVs, the QM8K series uses the Google TV smart TV platform, and it also features a built-in mic for hands-free Google Assistant voice control. If you don’t want to deal with Google Assistant, other control options include Amazon Alexa and Apple HomeKit.

Gaming features on the QM8K include 4K 144Hz support on two of the TV’s four HDMI inputs. A Game Accelerator 288 VRR feature lets you double the TV’s native 144Hz refresh rate to 288Hz for 1080p-resolution gaming, and there’s also a Game Bar menu for easy onscreen access to gaming-related adjustments.

The QM8K’s connections include an ATSC 3.0 tuner input. This lets you connect one of the best indoor TV antennas to receive both standard and ‘NextGen’ digital TV broadcast channels, and there are options to view channel data either in a dedicated program grid guide or integrated in the Google TV Live TV guide along with free streaming channels.

  • Features Score: 4.5/5

TCL QM8K review: Picture quality

TCL QM8K showing image of green plant

The QM8K's picture looks great for both light and dark room viewing, and it has has an effective anti-glare screen (Image credit: Future)
  • Excellent brightness
  • Accurate out-of-the-box picture
  • Impressive off-center picture uniformity

When I tested the QM8K’s predecessor, the TCL QM851G, it was the brightest TV I’d yet measured. The QM8K doesn’t hit the same brightness heights as that model, but it still has very high brightness even by flagship mini-LED TV standards.

In Filmmaker Mode, the QM8K hit 2,268 nits peak brightness (measured on a 10% HDR white window pattern) and 584 nits fullscreen brightness. Standard mode brightness was even higher, at 3,176 and 629 nits, respectively.

For comparison’s sake, the Samsung QN90F measured 2,086 and 667 nits, respectively, on the same tests in Movie mode when I reviewed it, while the Hisense U8QG – 2025’s current reigning brightness king – hit 2,888 nits peak brightness and 744 nits fullscreen brightness in my tests.

Color gamut coverage was also excellent, with the QM8K measuring 97% for UHDA-P3 and 78.7% for BT.2020. Picture accuracy was also notably good, with the QM8K delivering Delta-E (the margin of error between the test pattern source and what’s shown on-screen) averages of 1.9 for grayscale and 0.8 for color, which means both are indistinguishable from perfect to the human eye.

The QM8K features an Intelligent picture preset that uses AI to determine the proper picture settings based on content. I used this for casual TV viewing with generally good results, though I’d recommend the more accurate Filmmaker or Movie modes for movies. Upscaling was impressive, with the QM8K presenting older TV shows and other lower-resolution content with a good level of clarity.

Brightness is one of the QM8K’s main advantages, and it helped sports come to life on screen, and also made highlights in movies like Alien: Romulus visually pop. In dark movies like that one, the QM8K’s refined local dimming ensured that shadows looked deep and detailed. Contrast was consistently strong, and, true to the promise of TCL’s Halo Control System, there was virtually no sign of backlight blooming.

TCL QM8K showing image of fantastic landscape

An Ultra Wide Angle features means the QM8K's picture looks good from a range of seating positions (Image credit: Future)

Motion handling on the QM8K was average, with a reference scene from the James Bond film No Time to Die showing a fair amount of blur and judder as Bond traversed a rocky hillside cemetery. Selecting the Custom Motion Clarity option in the Motion menu and setting both the judder and blur settings to 2 reduced this, however, and it didn’t add any soap opera effect to the picture in the process.

The QM8K’s anti-reflection screen proved effective when viewing with bright overhead room lights turned on. I could see mirror-like reflections when a lamp was placed in the way of its screen, but otherwise, general ambient room lighting didn’t harm picture contrast, even when watching movies.

Equally impressive is the QM8K’s Ultra Wide Viewing Angle feature. During my testing, pictures retained their contrast and color saturation even when viewed from a far-off-center seat. That’s a big step up from last year’s QM851G, which performed poorly in the same test.

Less impressive was a faint vignetting, an effect that is likely related to the QM8K’s Zero Border design, which places the LCD panel driver circuitry along the outer edges of the screen. The effect was minor, and I mostly saw it only on gray full-field test patterns during my initial testing, but during normal viewing, I occasionally noted it on flat fields of color, such as an empty blue sky.

  • Picture quality score: 4.5/5

TCL QM8K review: Sound quality

TCL QM8K rear panel bass modules

Dual bass drivers on the TV's back panel deliver extra low end, but certainly not subwoofer-level bass (Image credit: Future)
  • Dolby Atmos and DTS Virtual:X
  • Audio by Bang & Olufsen built-in speakers
  • Good overall sound quality

The QM8K’s Audio by Bang & Olufsen built-in speakers support both Dolby Atmos and DTS Virtual:X. TCL doesn’t provide any specs about speaker configuration or power, but there are upfiring drivers on the TV’s top surface, and bass modules on the back panel.

Sound features are mostly limited to presets such as Speech, Movies, Game, and Night. There’s also a Custom preset that lets you make adjustments using Bang & Olufsen’s Beosonic interface, which involves moving a cursor between Relaxed, Energetic, Bright, and Warm options until you settle on a sonic mix that you like. Using this, I found it useful for taking off the bright edge that’s typical for built-in TV sound.

I did most of my viewing using the TV’s Movie preset, which provided a good level of spaciousness with Dolby Atmos soundtracks while retaining speech clarity. The QM8K’s sound was good overall, with accurate positioning, but bass was limited, and soundtracks could also get a bit muddied when pushed to higher volume levels. Movie fans will want to consider pairing the QM8K with one of the best soundbars.

  • Sound quality score: 4/5

TCL QM8K review: Design

  • Ultra Slim design
  • Adjustable height pedestal stand
  • Full-sized, backlit remote control

The QM8K’s “Ultra Slim” design features a sloping back panel that gives the impression the TV is thinner than it actually is. A sturdy plastic-capped aluminum pedestal stand is used for all sizes except the 98-inch model, and it has an adjustable height to clear space for a soundbar. Many TVs claim to have a “bezel-free’ design, but the QM8K with its 3.4mm, Zero Border bezel comes closer to presenting an all-image look than most I’ve seen.

Connections are located on a side-mounted input section and include four HDMI ports (including one with eARC and two HDMI 2.1 with 4K 144Hz support), an optical digital audio output, RF antenna, two USB type-A, and Ethernet.

TCL’s remote control strikes a nice balance between the more minimalist ones that come with TVs from LG and Samsung and the button-heavy remotes included with Hisense TVs. The buttons are backlit so you can actually see what you’re doing in the dark, and there are dedicated controls for input selection and for accessing Netflix, Prime Video, YouTube, and the ad-supported TCLTV free streaming channels portal.

  • Design score: 4/5

TCL QM8K review: Smart TV and menus

  • Google TV
  • Live program grid integrates FAST and broadcast channels
  • Quick settings menu

TCL TVs use the Google TV smart TV platform, which features a homescreen with a large banner at the top with rotating show recommendations and a few sponsored ads. A ‘Top picks for you’ row of recommended programs is located directly below, and the options can be determined by your Google search activity and viewing history when you’ve signed in with a Google account. The final component of the homescreen is a ‘Your apps’ row at the bottom of the screen, which can be edited to reflect your most-used apps.

Tabs located at the top of the homescreen let you access the following: Live (a program guide with Google TV Freeplay channels and channels pulled in by antenna), Apps (a portal for downloading and organizing apps), Library (for purchasing and renting shows and movies on Google TV), and TCL (TCL’s own TCLtv free, ad-supported channels).

As usual with Google TV, picture adjustments and other settings can be accessed by clicking the gear icon onscreen, or its equivalent on the remote control. There are a fair number of adjustments available, including advanced ones such as 2- and 20-point white balance and variable gamma settings.

A quick menu can also be accessed via a dedicated remote control button, and this presents an overlay at the bottom of the screen for easy access to a range of settings, including essential ones like brightness and picture mode.

  • Smart TV & menus score: 4/5

TCL QM8K review: Gaming

TCL QM8K Game menu

The QM8K's Game Menu in action (Image credit: Future)
  • Two HDMI 2.1 ports with 4K 144Hz support
  • Game Accelerator 288 VRR
  • 13.2ms input lag is an average level for TVs

Gaming features on the QM8K include two HDMI 2.1 ports with support for 4K 144Hz, ALLM, and FreeSync Premium Pro. There’s also a Game Accelerator 288 VRR feature that doubles the TV’s native 144Hz refresh rate for 1080p-resolution gaming (which may be of interest to PC gamers), and an onscreen Game Menu that lets you make quick gaming-related adjustments without having to exit the main screen.

I measured the QM8K’s input lag in Game mode at 13.2 using a Bodnar 4K meter. That’s an average level, and below the 15ms threshold most gamers look for, but other TVs we’ve recently tested from Samsung and LG, and also the new Hisense U8QM, yielded under 10ms lag times when we measured them.

  • Gaming score: 4/5

TCL QM8K review: Value

TCL QM8K remote control held in hand

The QM8K's full-size, fully backlit remote control (Image credit: Future)
  • Great value at current price
  • Cheaper options available with similar brightness
  • You’ll pay considerably more for premium brand options

At its current reduced $1,599 price for the 65-inch model I tested, the TCL QM8K is an excellent value.

That price is more than what you’ll pay for the Hisense U8QG, that company’s flagship model, but the TCL arguably has better overall picture quality and also better built-in sound. It’s also less than what you’ll pay for the Samsung QN90F, another flagship mini-LED, and one that offers a better smart TV platform and gaming features, along with a slimmer design.

Taking all that into consideration, the TCL is a solid middle mini-LED option, and perhaps the best value of the three.

  • Value score: 4.5/5

Should I buy the TCL QM8K?

TCL QM8K showing abstract colorful image

(Image credit: Future)
TCL QM8K

Attributes

Notes

Rating

Features

Comorehensive HDR support and Audio by Bang & Olufsen built-in speakers

4.5/5

Picture quality

High brightness, refined local dimming, an anti-reflective screen, and a wide viewing angle make this a great all-purpose TV

4.5/5

Sound quality

Good overall sound quality but limited bass. A Beosonic interface allows for fine-tuning audio

4/5

Design

A literally bezel-free design with a sturdy pedestal stand and solid, backlit remote control

4/5

Smart TV and menus

Google TV is a serviceable smart interface plus the quick menu provides easy access to basic settings

4/5

Gaming

4K 144Hz and FreeSync Premium Pro supported, but only on two HDMI ports

4/5

Value

At its current discounted price, the QM8K is a great value

4.5/5

Buy it if...

You want a great TV for movies
The QM8K’s high brightness, refined local dimming, and comprehensive HDR format support make it an excellent choice for watching 4K movies.

You also want a great TV for sports
An anti-reflection screen on the QM8K effectively reduces screen glare during daytime sports viewing, and an Ultra Wide Angle feature means its picture looks solid even from off-center seats.

You don’t want to pay top dollar for a mini-LED TV
The QM8K offers much the same performance level as other flagship mini-LED TVs from brands like Samsung, while costing several hundred dollars less.

Don't buy it if…

You want the best gaming TV
While the QM8K has a strong set of gaming features, including 4K 144Hz and FreeSync Premium Pro support, those features are only supported on two of its HDMI ports. Also, there are other TVs with lower input lag time than the TCL.

You want the best smart TV platform
Google TV is a generic, serviceable smart TV platform, but it's been eclipsed by the smart platforms on LG and Samsung TVs, which have seen strong improvements over the past few years.

You want to watch movies, but don’t want a soundbar
The QM8K has good built-in sound, but movie soundtracks can get congested at loud listening levels, making a soundbar a necessity for best audio quality.

TCL QM8K: Also consider...

TCL QM8K

Samsung QN90F

Hisense U8QG

Sony Bravia 9

Price (65-inch)

$2,499.99

$2,499.99

$2,199

$2,999

Screen type

QLED w/ mini-LED

QLED w/ mini-LED

QLED w/ mini-LED

QLED w/ mini-LED

Refresh rate

144Hz

165Hz

165Hz

144Hz

HDR support

DolbyVision/HDR10+/HDR10/HLG

HDR10+/HDR10/HLG

DolbyVision/HDR10+/HDR10/HLG

DolbyVision/HDR10/HLG

Smart TV

Google TV

Tizen

Google TV

Google TV

HDMI ports

4 (2x HDMI 2.1)

4x HDMI 2.1

3x HDMI 2.1

4 (2x HDMI 2.1)

Samsung QN90F
The QN90F is pricier than the QM8K, but it has better gaming features and performance and a superior smart TV platform. Its Glare Free screen is also more effective at reducing reflections in bright rooms.

Here’s our Samsung QN90F review

Hisense U8QG
Hisense’s flagship mini-LED TV is currently a cheaper option than the TCL QM8K. It has a similarly bright picture plus refined local dimming, but it lacks the QM8K’s Ultra Wide Angle feature and has less impressive built-in speakers.

Here’s our Hisense U8QG review

Sony Bravia 9

The Sony Bravia 9 is significantly more expensive than the other TVs listed here, but it has a bright picture with refined local dimming plus excellent built-in sound and audio-related features.

Here’s our Sony Bravia 9 review

How I tested the TCL QM8K

TV brightness being measured by a TV reviewer

Measuring a 10% HDR white window pattern during testing (Image credit: Future)
  • I spent about 15 viewing hours in total measuring and evaluating
  • Measurements were made using Calman color calibration software
  • A full calibration was made before proceeding with subjective tests

When I test TVs, I first spend a few days or even weeks using it for casual viewing to assess the out-of-the-box picture presets and get familiar with its smart TV menu and picture adjustments.

I next select the most accurate preset (usually Filmmaker Mode, Movie or Cinema) and measure grayscale and color accuracy using Portrait Displays’ Calman color calibration software. The resulting measurements provide Delta-E values (the margin of error between the test pattern source and what’s shown on-screen) for each category, and allow for an assessment of the TV’s overall accuracy.

Along with those tests, I make measurements of peak light output (recorded in nits) for both standard high-definition and 4K high dynamic range using 10% and 100% white window patterns. Coverage of DCI-P3 and BT.2020 color space is also measured, with the results providing a sense of how faithfully the TV can render the extended color range in ultra high-definition sources – you can read more about this process in our guide to how we test TVs at TechRadar.

For the TCL QM8K, I used the Calman ISF workflow, along with the TV’s advanced picture menu settings, to calibrate the image for best accuracy. I also watched a range of reference scenes on 4K Blu-ray discs to assess the TV’s performance, along with 4K HDR shows streamed from Max, Netflix, and other services.

I tested the Bose QuietComfort Ultra Earbuds 2nd Gen thinking they couldn’t better the originals for ANC – but wow, was I wrong
4:55 pm |

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Bose QuietComfort Ultra Earbuds 2nd Gen: Two-minute review

I've been wanting Bose to lighten up a bit for years where its earbuds are concerned and with the Bose QuietComfort Ultra Earbuds 2nd Gen, the usually oh-so-serious audio heavyweight got the memo. Would you look at that 'Deep Plum' hue?

When setting up the Bose QuietComfort Ultra Earbuds 2nd Gen (try saying that three times in quick succession after 5:30pm) you're prompted to rename them if you'd like – and someone on Bose's payroll clearly had a jolly old time coming up with cheeky suggestions such as "Cherry Wine", "Burgundy Buds" or "Sonic Sangria". You love to see it. (They're also available in black and white, naturally.)

But that's far from the end of the fun times where this particular Bose vintage is concerned. These buds are the most sonically exuberant listen I've heard to date in this type of form factor, a fact only enhanced by their rock-solid, near-impenetrable active noise cancellation (ANC), which you can usefully tweak on a slider when creating Bose's hugely successful 'Modes' (more on that later).

This time around, you also get wireless charging from the box and multi-point connectivity that works seamlessly, something the original Ultras bizarrely lacked on their release. Some of the best earbuds on the market then? Oh absolutely.

But not everyone will be wholly happy with the update. If you were expecting a complete design overhaul from the inaugural late-2023 Ultras (which were not too dissimilar in design to the September 2022-issue QuietComfort Earbuds 2), you're still not getting that.

My colleague in Australia, Sharmishta Sarkar has been waiting for a rework there for some time now – and to be clear, she means an alternative to wedging the buds in with stability bands because these silicone accessories eventually wear out (even though a total of three, in different sizes and separate from the interchangeable tips, has been provided in the box). Anyone who wanted Bose to take its smaller QuietComfort Earbuds 2024 design and Ultra-fy it for 2025 (are you out there?) will also be disappointed.

I am not disappointed. The ovoid nozzle actually slips happily into my bijou ear canal and serves up exciting, expansive audio that nixes more low-level constant noise than anything else I've tested on the market. And with the (admittedly incremental, but still welcome) upgrades Bose has given me in the QuietComfort Earbuds Ultra 2nd Gen, I'll be thoroughly recommending them to anyone who'll let me for some time.

Bose QuietComfort Ultra Earbuds 2nd Gen review: Price and release date

Bose QuietComfort Ultra Earbuds (2nd Gen) in purple color, next to some flowers of a similar shade but held in a hand

(Image credit: Future)
  • Released on June 12, 2025
  • Priced $299 / £299 / AU$450
  • Available in black, off-white and 'deep plum' (pictured)

Key things to note here: they're newe,r and while they're not cheaper, they're also not more expensive than what's gone before them. Bose has generously carried over the original Ultra Earbuds' 2023 launch price (which was the same as the prices listed above) to 2025 and ignored inflation, although you can now find the older set for nearer $220 / £199 / AU$399.

Why mention this? Because if the deep plum limited colorway and wireless charging as standard don't matter to you, you might think the smart money goes on the older set. I actually disagree, as you'll see, but there's definitely a case to be made for it…

In terms of direct competition, your rivals at the level are of course AirPods Pro 2 which can be yours for around $50 / £70 less than the Bose (though often drop to being much cheaper), the Bowers & Wilkins Pi8 (which are pricier, at $399 / £349 / AU$599), or the Technics EAH-AZ100 which are virtually the same price as the Bose depending on where you live, at $299 / £259 / AU$478.

Bose QuietComfort Ultra Earbuds 2nd Gen review: Specs

Drivers

9.3mm dynamic

Active noise cancellation

Yes, plus Immersive audio and 'Modes'

Battery life

6 hours (earbuds), 24 hours (total)

Weight

7.7g per bud

Connectivity

Bluetooth 5.3

Waterproofing

IPX4

Bose QuietComfort Ultra Earbuds (2nd Gen) in purple color, next to some flowers of a similar shade but held in a hand

(Image credit: Future)

Bose QuietComfort Ultra Earbuds 2nd Gen review: Features

  • Up to 24 hours of battery (up to 6 from the buds)
  • Excellent and useful Modes options
  • Option to switch off on-ear controls

Via a few clicks within the Bose companion app, Bose has added (drumroll)… the ability to switch off on-ear controls with this iteration. Why you'd want to switch off the capacity to scroll through your listening modes (you can customize the long-press function too, if you'd rather use it to switch source devices manually, access your voice assistant or deploy a hotline to Spotify), stroke the stem to alter volume or tap to pause and play your tracks is strange to me – but if you want to, you can now. And you couldn't before.

Now: Modes. It's not new, but I was a huge fan of the feature in the original Ultra Earbuds and I still love it now. What are these Modes? Essentially, you can combine however much of Bose's excellent ANC or ambient passthrough you want on a slider – although take note, the solo slider starts at full transparency or awareness and goes through to maximum ANC – along with Immersive Audio.

You can pick whether you want Immersive Audio on or off, 'Still' (so you can move your head around your source device and feel the different sounds being piped into each ear accordingly) or in 'Motion' (which means that whichever way you turn your head, the three-dimensional immersive soundstage will not change).

There are three presets from the box: Quiet (max ANC, Immersive Audio off); Aware (max Ambient passthrough, Immersive Audio off); and Immersion (max ANC, Immersive Audio set to 'Motion'). I created a fourth preset: Work. Here, I set ANC to 75% and select 'Still' under Immersive Audio. This way, all but the most important noises are gone at my desk, and said desk is my fixed audio source – so I'm less tempted to leave it!

The thing is, if these profiles didn't do exactly what they promised to do, you'd say they were surplus to requirements. But because they genuinely enhance the listening experience better than any similar solutions currently offered by rivals (for me, it's better than JBL Spatial Sound, for example), they're emphatically worth using and celebrating.

On the ANC, Bose says there are new AI algorithms included this time, for better filtering of sudden noise spikes via its ActiveSense system. What I can tell you is that I've never heard more effective ANC in a set of noise-cancelling earbuds. Better than the outgoing model? Yes. I even missed my own doorbell while testing (which meant an extra journey to collect my next review product) – and my music was not loud.

It's not all great news: your Bluetooth version is still 5.3 (when 6.0 now exists) and although you get Snapdragon Sound again, which means aptX Adaptive is on the menu as well as aptX Lossless, you've still got to be using an Android non-Samsung device with a compatible Qualcomm chip (see our aptX explainer for more on that tricky business).

None of that is Bose's fault, of course, but it is a roundabout way of saying that LDAC would've been a great addition this time around – especially when cheaper options such as the Nothing Ear (a) proudly offer it.

Also, the three-tab EQ graph is relatively basic compared to some flagship options and there are no listening tests to augment certain frequencies to create your own 'Personi-Fi' type profile – which is a feature of the JBL Live Beam 3, for example.

However, that doesn't mean there's no sonic tailoring whatsoever in the QCUE 2 – just that you might not be aware of it. CustomTune is a feature that actually made its debut in the QuietComfort Earbuds 2, but it's worth noting nonetheless, because I think it's a big part of what makes the sound and ANC so effective.

Basically, that thwomph sound in each ear when you put them on? It's not performative. What's happening is that this test sound travels through your ear's unique canals, bounces back to the buds nestled within them and is picked up by the microphones.

Then, Bose's CustomTune tech gets to work, potentially amplifying some frequencies while pulling back a touch others, depending on the architecture of your auricles. It's just that you don't take an active part in this test, in the way you do with lengthier tests offered by the Nothing Ear, for example.

Battery life? It's fine, but not exceptional. In my tests, I managed to get the promised six hours from them with my 'Work' mode deployed, but not a minute more – and that's largely because I found (unlike many rivals) they're able to play relatively loud and I was able to listen at just under 45% volume at my desk.

  • Features score: 4.5/5

Bose QuietComfort Ultra Earbuds (2nd Gen) in purple color, next to some flowers of a similar shade but held in a hand

Note the stabilizer fins and separate tips (Image credit: Future)

Bose QuietComfort Ultra Earbuds 2nd Gen review: Sound quality

  • Loud, zealous, crisp and expansive audio
  • Excellent across the whole frequency range
  • Immersive Audio is beautifully handled

Let's take the excellent ANC performance as read (scroll back if you missed that). Sonically, the QCUE 2nd Gen are also a rare treat across the frequencies, with a layered and expansive soundstage that allows bass registers ample space to rumble and clack, midrange vocals and instruments to sound textured and fully realized, and treble trills to soar unaffected above it all.

If you love a considered hip-hop album (and I really do) you'll find much to celebrate here. I cue up OutKast's Stankonia and through the Bose buds Gasoline Dreams is an emotive romp filled with guitar kerrangs, drum fills and sonic articles lesser earbuds cannot unearth. Big Boi sounds extra indignant; Andre 3000's playful Georgian twang is just that bit more noticeable.

Switching to Ozzy Osbourne's Bark at the Moon (thank you, Ozzy), the complex layers of laughter, driving guitars and bass are faithfully captured and held dutifully in a cohesive but energetic mix – and when that guitar glances from left to right through the soundstages, it whooshes past each ear like a Tokyo bullet train.

For detail, they're also very good, and while there will always be that old argument about integrated, neutral hi-fi sound versus fun and excitement, for me, Bose has absolutely aced the sonic treatment here.

For detail and neutrality, you'll get just a little more from the aforementioned Technics EAH-AZ100, but for bass impact and zeal, the Bose buds take it. And there's so little in it this time around, I cannot dock any stars.

  • Sound quality: 5/5

Bose QuietComfort Ultra Earbuds (2nd Gen) in purple color, next to some flowers of a similar shade but held in a hand

(Image credit: Future)

Bose QuietComfort Ultra Earbuds 2nd Gen review: Design

  • Excellent mics for call-handling
  • On-ear touch controls work very well
  • Winning 'deep plum' finish

As mentioned (and pictured), the earbuds and case are extremely similar to the older model in terms of size, shape and driver array. What I didn't mention before is that there is a small difference to the build, and it's the addition of something Bose calls an embedded ear wax guard, to prevent any of the stuff produced naturally by our ears (let's not be weird; a healthy body creates ear wax) finding its way beyond the casework and into the driver housings.

I cannot say I had this issue with the older set, but having seen a few Reddit threads that mention it, it's a sensible addition from Bose.

Bose also promises improved voice pickup from the four mics per bud and thus improved call quality this time around, and I think the company has made good on that claim. It was a sore point in the older set, and this time callers felt I sounded much clearer and more present.

You can also tweak how much of your own voice you'd like to hear in the app (something rival Technics calls 'Sidetone') and it is beneficial if you prefer to hear a little more of your dulcet tones in calls, to avoid shouting at your recipient.

In the Bose app, there's a fit test to work out whether you've got the correct tips and fins fitted, and although it's quick and relatively rudimentary (I passed first time with the pre-fitted options, no issue) I did find the buds secure and comfortable during my testing.

Basically, if you've liked the fit of Bose's flagship earbuds to date, it's more of the same here. OK, in today's money the charging case could be considered a touch on the large side. For me it's no biggie, since its flat underside means it sits happily in my hand and in my bag without issue.

  • Design score: 5/5

Three screengrabs from the Bose app, using the QuietComfort Ultra Earbuds 2nd Gen

(Image credit: Bose)

Bose QuietComfort Ultra Earbuds 2nd Gen review: value

  • Simply the best ANC earbuds on the market
  • …but not the cheapest

Value is an odd thing to quantify here, since it really is horses for courses. I keep coming back to this: there will be those out there who simply want the best noise-cancelling earbuds on the market, that also do great things with their music. This is that pair of earbuds.

No, they're possibly not the absolute best earbuds for small ears (although to clarify: I had no issue with fallouts and I have bijou ears, but they do protrude more than rivals) nor do they ask you various questions about what you're hearing and when you stop hearing certain frequencies to create sound profiles.

If you want to take an active part in augmentation, you'll be better served by AirPods Pro 2 or Nothing Ear. That said, not everyone wants this – and for me, the overall sound quality here is so good I wouldn't touch it anyway.

  • Value: 5/5

Bose QuietComfort Ultra Earbuds (2nd Gen) in purple color, next to some flowers of a similar shade but held in a hand

(Image credit: Future)

Should I buy the Bose QuietComfort Ultra Earbuds 2nd Gen?

Attributes

Notes

Rating

Features

Excellent ANC and now, wireless charging. Every perk is class-leading

4.5/5

Sound quality

Immersive audio is wildly fun and engaging but even with all profiles off, the sound is zealous and powerful

5/5

Design

A case of 'it wasn't broken, so we didn't fix it' but the added wax guard is a nice touch

4.5/5

Value

Simply the best earbuds for ANC on the market – and that's worth paying for

5/5

Buy them if…

You need class-leading ANC in earbuds
I've never heard bubble-of-silence noise cancellation in earbuds quite like it – no, not even in the older set.

You like immersive, head-tracked audio
With Bose's earbuds, you get to choose whether you want your own personal surround-sound performance fixed or moving, and in conjunction with whatever level of ANC you want.

You like vivacious, dynamic, pro-active audio
Want your grime tracks with a thumping bassline? Bose can give it to you and then some. If I had to use just one word to describe the audio performance here, I'd go with 'powerful'.

Don’t buy them if…

You've already got the Ultras
If wireless charging doesn't matter to you, you're not fully sold on the new color, the incremental upgrade in the inaugural set's very good ANC isn't a deal-breaker and, er, wax buildup has never been an issue for you, you might give this update a miss.

You prioritise stamina
The battery life here isn't terrible exactly, but compared to certain rivals, it can certainly be bettered – the Technics EAH-AZ100 lasted a lot longer on a single charge, for example.

You want LDAC
No dice here, friend. If you need Sony's higher-resolution Bluetooth audio codec, look to the Cambridge Audio Melomania A100.

Bose QuietComfort Ultra Earbuds 2nd Gen review: Also consider

Bose QuietComfort Ultra Earbuds (2nd Gen)

Technics EAH-AZ100

Cambridge Audio Melomania A100

Drivers

10mm

10mm free-edge dynamic

10mm Neodymium dynamic

Active noise cancellation

Yes

Yes

Yes

Battery life

6 hours (earbuds, ANC off; 4 hours with it on) case not specified

12 hours (earbuds, ANC off); 17 hours (charging case)

11 hours per charge; up to 39 hours with the case

Weight

7.7g per bud

5.9g per bud

4.7g per earbud

Connectivity

Bluetooth 5.3 with aptX Lossless / Adaptive

Bluetooth 5.3 with LDAC and LC3 compatibility

5.4 with LDAC and aptX Lossless

Waterproofing

IPX4 earbuds only

IPX4 earbuds only

IPX5 earbuds only

Cambridge Audio Melomania A100
Cambridge Audio also offers an excellent listen in its latest earbuds with good ANC. No immersive audio profiles (Cambridge doesn't believe in tinkering with recorded music in that way) but if it's an integrated hi-fi listen you seek, add them to your list – and they'll last longer than the Bose option. Read more in our Cambridge Audio Melomania A100 review.

Technics EAH-AZ100
Another option with better stamina that also offers excellent sound quality and decent noise cancellation. Here, you even get multi-point to three devices (rather than the standard two) though, and the classy finish makes them nothing short of a joy to own. Get the full picture in our Technics EAH-AZ100 review.

How I tested the Bose QuietComfort Ultra Earbuds 2nd Gen

  • Tested for two weeks
  • Tested at home, walking along a crowded beach and on a packed train

I used the Bose QuietComfort Ultra Earbuds 2nd Gen for two weeks when writing this review, and my testing involved listening to music, podcasts and watching streamed movies from various devices – including Android and Apple sources.

I listened at home when working and taking calls, during several beach-combing walks and on a busy commuter train – and let me tell you, with these as my musical companion, it was no hardship.

I've been testing audio products full-time since 2019, firstly over at our sister publication What Hi-Fi? as a staff writer (locked in our hi-fi testing facility for two years, I was), then as senior writer at TechRadar and, since early 2024, audio editor. My background as a professional dancer is what drives me to search for faithful timing, precision, clarity and good old fashioned fun in recorded music.

  • First reviewed in July 2025.
Samsung’s mid-range mini-LED TV is pretty good, but I’d opt for one of its better-priced rivals
9:00 pm | July 24, 2025

Author: admin | Category: Computers Gadgets Televisions | Tags: , | Comments: Off

Samsung QN80F: Two-minute review

The Samsung QN80F is the mid-range model in the company’s 2025 4K Neo QLED mini-LED TV lineup. It is available in 50-100-inch sizes (with the 50-inch only available in the UK and the 100-inch only available in the US and Australia) and carries a stacked feature set.

The QN80F uses the same NQ4 AI Gen2 processor as its predecessor, the Samsung QN85D. While not as effective as the step-up Gen3 processor, it still delivers useful picture and audio enhancements.

Picture quality is mixed on the QN80F. Its vibrant yet natural colors are up there with the best TVs, and it also delivers refined details and solid contrast. While brightness is lacking compared to cheaper rivals such as the TCL QM7K (and even the TCL C7K in the UK), it can still give pictures a nice boost. Black levels, while raised at times, are also generally respectable. Where the QN80F struggles is with its highly reflective screen and inconsistent motion handling, particularly with sports – something its more premium counterpart, the Samsung QN90F, has no issue with.

Sound quality is average on the QN80F. Speech is clear and sound placement is accurate, with a good sense of direction, but bass is lacking, and the narrow soundstage never extends beyond the screen’s threshold. Movie fans will definitely want to invest in one of the best soundbars for this TV.

Gaming is a strong area for the QN80F, which has a near-full list of gaming features, including 4K 120Hz, FreeSync Premium Pro and ALLM across four HDMI 2.1 ports. Plus, Samsung's Gaming Hub is an excellent portal for cloud-based gaming apps. Pair all this with an ultra-low 9.9ms input lag time, and the QN80F competes with the best gaming TVs.

Samsung’s own Tizen 9.0 smart TV platform serves as the QN80F’s smart interface. With smooth performance, tons of picture settings, a customizable home page, several ‘hubs’, and a useful quick menu, Tizen 9.0 is the best iteration of Samsung’s smart TV platform to date. Some settings are buried deep in menus, but this is one of my only gripes.

While the QN80F does have a strong feature list and generally solid performance, its value is a tough category to score. At $1,299 / £1,399 for the 55-inch model I tested, there are cheaper mini-LEDs from Hisense and TCL that deliver very similar features and performance for a lower price. The QN80F is still a good option, but one that you should look for during major sales events.

Samsung QN80F review: Price and release date

Samsung QN80F with aerial shot of city at night on screen

The Samsung QN80F demonstrates decent contrast but minor backlight blooming (Image credit: Future)
  • Release date: May 2025
  • 50-inch: $N/A / £1,099
  • 55-inch: $1,299.99 / £1,399 (roughly AU$1,991)
  • 65-inch: $1,799.99 / £1,699 (roughly AU$2,757)
  • 75-inch: $2,299.99 / £2,599 (roughly AU$3,524)
  • 85-inch: $3,499.99 / £3,699 (roughly AU$5,363)
  • 100-inch: $5,999.99 / £N/A (roughly AU$9,196)

The Samsung QN80F is the mid-range model in Samsung’s 2025 4K Neo QLED (mini-LED) lineup, sitting above the Samsung QN70F and below the Samsung QN85F and the flagship Samsung QN90F. The QN80F is not available in Australia. For the 55-inch model I tested, its May 2025 launch prices were $1,299.99 / £1,399 (roughly AU$1,990).

Since its launch, there have been discounts across the entire lineup. The 55-inch price remains unchanged in the US, but in the UK, its price has dropped to £1,199.

Samsung QN80F review: Specs

Screen type:

QLED with mini-LED

Refresh rate:

120Hz

HDR support:

HDR10+, HDR10, HLG

Audio support:

Dolby Atmos

Smart TV:

Tizen

HDMI ports:

4 x HDMI 2.1

Built-in tuner:

ATSC 3.0 (USA)

Samsung QN80F review: Benchmark results

Samsung QN80F review: Features

Samsung QN80F ports

The QN80F has four HDMI 2.1 ports with 4K 120Hz support (Image credit: Future)
  • NQ4 AI Gen 2 Processor
  • HDR10+ HDR support
  • Four HDMI 2.1 ports with 4K 120Hz for gaming

The Samsung QN80F uses a mini-LED backlight and has a standard gloss screen rather than the Glare Free screen used in the step-up Samsung QN90F mini-LED TV. It features Samsung’s QN4 AI Gen2 Processor, a step-down from the Gen3 processor used in the QN90F, that supports 4K AI upscaling and Real Depth Enhancer.

Like all Samsung TVs, the QN80F supports the HDR10+ High Dynamic Range format, but not Dolby Vision.

The QN80F’s four-channel, 30W sound system supports Dolby Atmos. There are also AI-based tools such as Active Voice Amplifier and Adaptive Sound, both of which analyze the content on screen and adapt the sound accordingly.

Gaming features include 4K 120Hz, VRR (AMD FreeSync Premium Pro included) and ALLM, with all supported on four HDMI 2.1 ports. There is also Samsung’s Gaming Hub, which provides access to cloud-based gaming apps including Xbox and Luna.

The QN80F uses Samsung’s Tizen 9.0 as its smart TV platform. Along with the AI-based picture and sound enhancement tools mentioned above, the TV provides AI content recommendations based on viewing history. It has access to all major streaming apps such as Netflix and Prime Video, and there is built-in voice assistant support from Alexa and Bixby. The QN80F also supports the Samsung Art Store feature previously exclusive to Samsung’s The Frame TVs, which lets you display artworks when the TV is in standby mode.

  • Features Score: 5/5

Samsung QN80F review: Picture quality

Samsung QN80F with orange butterfly on screen

The QN80F's strength lies in its color reproduction, which is punchy and accurate (Image credit: Future)
  • Bold, vibrant colors
  • Generally good contrast
  • Screen reflections

I measured the QN80F in its Standard and Movie picture modes. I did find that Filmmaker Mode was the more accurate picture preset overall, but Movie provided a brightness boost (in default settings) that allowed the QN80F to better show off its picture quality strengths.

Peak brightness (measured on a 10% HDR white window pattern) hit 1,106 nits in Movie mode and 975 nits in Standard. That is a big drop from its step-up sibling, the QN90F, which registered 2,086 nits in Movie and 1,987 nits in Standard. It’s even less than the cheaper mid-range TCL QM7K, which hit 1,733 nits in Filmmaker mode (the UK equivalent TCL C7K hit 1,706 nits). This is quite a disappointing result for the QN80F.

Fullscreen HDR brightness, however, was significantly higher, with the QN80F hitting 754 nits in Movie mode and a mammoth 869 nits in Standard, which should make Samsung’s mid-range mini-LED TV great for daytime viewing in brighter rooms.

This does, however, bring me to the elephant in the room: the QN80F’s reflective screen. I found that I could see objects reflected on the TV’s screen when watching dark scenes, even in dim room lighting conditions.

The QN80F does an effective job upscaling non-4K movies and TV shows. An HD stream of Fight Club viewed on Disney Plus benefited from an uplift in sharpness, giving textures a cleaner look, and contrast was also stronger. But upscaling wasn’t as effective with lower-resolution content. The TV’s Auto Remastering HDR setting is an option here, but I found it gave pictures a too-sharp look.

Color reproduction is the QN80F’s main strength. A scene from Elemental (on Disney Plus) where Ember makes a red and orange glass vase showcased the TV’s vibrant, punchy color display. Watching a 4K Blu-ray of Wicked, a scene where Elphaba sings under pink flowers showcased the QN80F’s ability to deliver more natural hues, giving the flowers and Elphaba’s green skin a realistic yet dynamic look.

When I measured the QN80F’s HDR color gamut coverage, it yielded results of 70.3% for BT.2020 and 93.05% for UHDA-P3. These are surprisingly low results for a mini-LED in this range, but also not far off the QN90F’s numbers, which hit 76.3% and 93.6%, respectively, for the same color gamuts.

Samsung QN80F with peacock feather on black background on screen

Black levels are surprisingly deep on the QN80F, but can also sometimes take on a raised gray tone (Image credit: Future)

The QN80F’s black levels were generally quite good. As Hutler made his way to Orlock’s castle in Nosferatu, blacks looked pretty deep, although they did take on a slightly raised gray tone at times. Contrast was solid, with light sources such as torch and lamplight contrasting well with the dark surroundings in both Nosferatu and The Batman. The QN80F also showcased good local dimming with very few instances of backlight blooming.

Viewed from an angle, the QN80F’s screen took on a gray wash in darker areas, but its contrast wasn’t as bad as what I’ve seen on some older or cheaper mini-LED TVs.

Watching the black and white scenes in Oppenheimer, the QN80F had a good range of gray tones, and while screen uniformity wasn’t as good as what you’d find on more premium mini-LED and OLED TVs, it was still solid.

Textures and details throughout my viewing were rich and lifelike, with the right level of sharpness. Faces looked detailed, and the QN80F’s solid contrast helped to give objects and textures definition and depth.

Motion handling was an area the QN80F struggled with. Setting motion and judder reduction to between 3 and 5 seemed to be the sweet spot for movies, depending on how ‘smooth’ a picture you’re looking for. With these settings active, a scene in No Time To Die where a camera pans across a cliff face was smooth without any of the dreaded soap opera effects.

Using the same settings, sports never looked quite right, however. There always seemed to be motion artifacts, regardless of the settings I used. While football games on both YouTube and Prime Video were watchable, the action wasn’t as smooth as on other TVs I’ve tested, such as the Amazon Fire TV Omni Mini-LED.

  • Picture quality score: 4/5

Samsung QN80F review: Sound quality

Samsung QN80F with photo from Art Mode on screen

The QN80F delivers clear speech and accurate sound placement, but struggles in every other aspect with its sound quality (Image credit: Future)
  • Four-channel, 30W speaker system
  • Direct sound
  • Narrow soundstage and limited bass

The QN80F has a four-channel, 30W speaker system that supports Dolby Atmos. It has two preset sound modes, Standard and Amplify, as well as AI sound enhancement tools such as Active Voice Amplifier Pro (to enhance speech volume) and Adaptive Sound Pro (analyzes the content on screen to optimize the sound).

The QN80F’s built-in speakers delivered direct, clear sound throughout my viewing, with speech coming through with good clarity in most movies. Active Voice Amplifier Pro and Adaptive Sound Pro, found in the TV’s AI Mode in Advanced Settings, worked very well for sports by amplifying the commentary. Sound was also accurately connected to the action on screen, as demonstrated by the swerving traffic in The Batman’s Batmobile chase scene.

Unfortunately, the QN80F falls short elsewhere. In the same Batmobile scene, the soundstage was very narrow, and there was no sense of Dolby Atmos height or surround effects. Bass was also lacking, making the rumble of the Batmobile’s engine feel limited and flat. The balance between the vocals and score in Wicked was effective, but it didn’t have the same weight or dynamic quality I’d experienced with other TVs I've recently tested, such as the TCL C7K.

Bottom line: QN80F’s sound is fine for day-to-day viewing, but I’d recommend using it with a soundbar.

  • Sound quality score: 3.5/5

Samsung QN80F review: Design

Samsung QN80F central stand

The QN80F's plain, but sturdy pedestal stand (Image credit: Future)
  • Central pedestal stand
  • Sturdy build quality
  • Bulkier and plainer design than other Samsung TVs

The QN80F’s design plays it safe. It has a slightly bulkier depth than more premium mini-LED TVs and a plain-looking rear panel, though its glossy, silver metal frame does give it a more premium look than other mid-range TVs from Hisense and TCL.

The TV features a central pedestal stand, and due to its placement, it will make it difficult to place a soundbar underneath easily. The stand itself is made of a similar plastic to that used on the TCL C7K, but it still suits the QN80F’s design.

The QN80F uses Samsung’s SolarCell remote, a slim, compact remote control with minimal buttons. It can be charged using USB-C or the solar panel on the rear, eliminating the need for any batteries. In the UK, a second remote with numbered buttons is also included in the box.

  • Design score: 4/5

Samsung QN80F review: Smart TV and menus

Samsung QN80F Tizen home page

The QN80F uses Tizen 9.0, the best iteration to date of Samsung's smart TV platform (Image credit: Future)
  • Samsung Tizen 9.0 interface
  • Home, Game, Daily+ and Art hubs
  • Some settings difficult to find

The QN80F uses Samsung’s Tizen smart TV platform, now in version 9.0. The Home screen’s default layout is the For You page, which presents recommendations based on your viewing history, along with a row of customizable apps. There is a large sponsored ad at the top of the screen, but this is not as invasive as the one found on Google TV.

Tizen 9.0 is the most advanced version of Samsung’s smart TV platform to date. A useful Quick Menu provides easy access to major settings categories, and it even remembers your most visited settings for quick navigation. There are four major hubs: Home, Game (a portal for all things gaming), Daily+ (for health and office-based apps) and the Art Store (where artworks can be purchased to display as a screensaver).

There are plenty of picture settings in the menus for those who like to tweak, but this is also one area where Tizen 9.0 falls short. Some settings are buried in several submenus and can be very difficult to find. Still, performance is snappy enough that navigation is easy, though I did find the QN80F to be a bit slower than its more premium counterparts.

  • Smart TV & menus score: 4.5/5

Samsung QN80F review: Gaming

  • Four HDMI 2.1 ports
  • 4K 120Hz, AMD Freesync Premium Pro support
  • 9.9ms input lag time

The QN80F has a stacked feature list for gaming. It supports 4K 120Hz, AMD FreeSync Premium Pro, ALLM and HDR10+ gaming, all featured on four HDMI 2.1 ports. Samsung’s Gaming Hub continues as an excellent portal for everything gaming-related, including access to cloud-based apps from Xbox, Luna and more.

Performance is responsive and snappy, even during fast-paced gameplay. In Battlefield V, the most chaotic of battles felt smooth, and targeting enemies was easy. This is helped by the QN80F’s ultra-low 9.9ms input lag time, which is up there with the best 120Hz TVs.

The QN80F’s Game picture mode delivers superb color and contrast with a nice hit of brightness. Textures are sharp, and motion is smooth and well-handled.

  • Gaming score: 5/5

Samsung QN80F review: Value

Samsung 2025 SolarCell remote

The QN80F's compact SolarCell remote control (Image credit: Future)
  • Good feature set for the price
  • Cheaper rivals available
  • Price drops help value

Value is a difficult area to score for Samsung’s Neo QLED TVs. That was something we discovered in our Samsung QN90F review, and the same holds true for the Samsung QN80F.

The 55-inch model I tested is available for $1,299 / £1,199 at the time of writing. In the US, you can get the Hisense U8Q (the company’s flagship mini-LED TV) for $848, and the TCL QM7K mini-LED TV for $749, a $4-500 price difference from the QN80F. Yes, the QN80F has more features, but both those TVs are significantly brighter.

In the UK, the QN80F is a more tempting option. Priced at £1,199, it's cheaper than the Hisense U7Q Pro (the U75Q equivalent for the UK), which is priced at £1,499. But the rival TCL C7K 55-inch is priced at £849, so again cheaper rivals exist.

The QN80F’s stacked feature list and generally solid performance make it a more premium option than its rivals, but ultimately, the Hisense and TCL alternatives deliver nearly the same performance at a lower price.

  • Value score: 3.5/5

Should I buy the Samsung QN90F?

Samsung QN80F with red and yellow flowers on screen

(Image credit: Future)
Samsung QN98F

Attributes

Notes

Rating

Features

A full suite of gaming features and AI-based enhancement settings

5/5

Picture quality

Punchy colors and contrast and refined textures but motion is hit-and-miss and the reflective screen can be very distracting in bright rooms

4/5

Sound quality

Clear speech and accurate placement but lacking bass and narrow soundstage

3.5/5

Design

Plain design with slightly bulky depth but solid and sturdy with central stand

4/5

Smart TV and menus

Snappier navigation and a 'hub' design make this the best version of Tizen yet, but some settings still buried in menus

4.5/5

Gaming

An strong list of gaming features, with a responsive performance to match

5/5

Value

More expensive than much of the competition and best sought out at a discounted price

3.5/5

Buy it if...

You want a punchy, colorful picture
The QN80F's main strength lies in its colors, which are bold, yet natural-looking.

You want a great TV for gaming
The QN80F carries a near-full suite of gaming features, including 4K 120Hz, AMD FreeSync Premium Pro, ALLM, HDR10+ gaming, across four HDMI 2.1 ports, and it also delivers smooth, responsive performance.

You want a smooth user experience
Tizen 9.0 is the best version of Samsung's smart TV software to date, with a useful quick menu, mostly smooth navigation and an intuitive hub layout.

Don't buy it if…

You want Dolby Vision HDR:
As with all Samsung TVs, the QN80F doesn't support the Dolby Vision HDR format used for 4K Blu-ray and by streaming services. It does support HDR10+, however.

You want the best value mini-LED TV
The QN80F faces stiff competition from cheaper rivals that deliver equally strong performance and features for a lower price.

You have a very bright room
The QN80F's reflective screen resulted in mirror-like reflections during my testing in brighter conditions. View Deal

Samsung QN90F: Also consider...

Samsung QN80F

Samsung QN90F

Hisense U8QG

TCL QM7K/TCL C7K

Price (55-inch)

$1,299.99 / £1,399 (roughly AU$1,991)

 $2,499.99 / £2,499 (roughly AU$3,786)

 $999 / £1,799 (roughly AU$1,513)

$749 / £849 / AU$1,395

Screen type

QLED w/ mini-LED

QLED w/ mini-LED

QLED w/ mini-LED

QLED w/ mini-LED

Refresh rate

120Hz

165Hz

165Hz

144Hz

HDR support

HDR10+, HDR10, HLG

HDR10+/HDR10/HLG

DolbyVision/HDR10+/HDR10/HLG

DolbyVision/HDR10+/HDR10/HLG

Smart TV

Tizen

Tizen

Google TV / VIDAA

Google TV

HDMI ports

4 x HDMI 2.1

4 x HDMI 2.1

3x HDMI 2.1

4 (2x HDMI 2.1)

Hisense U8QG

The U8QQ is Hisense’s top mini-LED for 2025, and its picture quality is brilliant for the price. Although it struggles in similar areas to the QN80F (such as sound quality) it's arguably overall better value for money (in the US at least).

Here’s our Hisense U8QG review

Samsung QN90F

The step-up sibling to the QN80F, the Samsung QN90F offers superior picture and sound quality, plus its Glare-Free screen makes it better for bright room viewing. It is a significant price increase over the QN80F, but the QN90F is a big quality increase as well.

Here’s our Samsung QN90F review

TCL QM7K/C7K

TCL’s mid-range mini-LED model (QM7K in the US, C7K in the UK) delivers higher brightness, better overall sound and impressive gaming performance again for cheaper than the QN80F. But, the QN80F does offer more as an overall package.

Here’s our TCL QM7K review and our TCL C7K review

How I tested the Samsung QN80F

  • Subjective tests made using HDR and SDR sources
  • Measurements taken using Calman calibration software
  • Tested in varying lighting conditions in our testing lab

Before conducting my subjective and objective tests, I did some casual viewing of the QN80F to determine its best picture mode, deciding on Movie mode due to its added brightness. Filmmaker Mode is a good alternative as it provides a more accurate picture but it lacks the visual punch of Movie mode.

For my subjective tests, I used reference scenes from a variety of HDR (4K Blu-ray and 4K streaming) and SDR (broadcast TV and lower-resolution formats such as DVD) sources to test the QN80F's picture quality, focusing on color, contrast, detail, motion handling and upscaling. I used some of these same scenes to analyze the QN80F's built-in speakers as well.

I took several measurements of the QN80F using a colorimeter, test pattern generator and Portrait Displays Calman Color Calibration software. Brightness was measured using 1-100% white window patterns in both SDR and HDR, with results presented for peak (10%) and fullscreen (100%) brightness.

I also measured the QN80F's grayscale and color accuracy, recording its Delta-E results (the margin of error between the test pattern and what's displayed on screen).

I also measured HDR color gamut coverage for the BT.2020 and DCI-P3 color spaces.

You can check out a more in-depth guide to how we test TVs at TechRadar in the link.

Psylo browser review
4:52 pm |

Author: admin | Category: Browsers Computers Computing Gadgets Internet | Comments: Off

For years now, there’s been an online arms race between companies that want to know everything about what you do online, and companies that are trying to stop all these intrusive logging and tracking technologies.

We, as consumers, have a fairly limited privacy-boosting toolbox. Think antivirus apps and today's best VPNs.

But now there’s something new. Something we haven’t seen in a while. A new web-browser called Psylo. While the name might bring up memories of a certain terrible movie featuring a seven-foot-tall dreadlocked alien, the name is a play on the core functionality – the ability to have multiple tabs within one browser, each one completely isolated from the others, and each with its own IP address.

So how does Psylo stand up against today's best secure web browsers? We’re going to take a look and see just what Psylo brings to the table.

Features

User privacy is at the heart of what Psylo does, and a small but focused set of features reflects that. The main feature of this mobile browser is the concept of tab isolation.

This "silo" system means that every tab is isolated from the others, so websites can only attempt to track what you’re doing in that single silo rather than following you around the internet.

Another big driver for Psylo’s developers was to combat browser fingerprinting. Browser fingerprinting works by identifying all the specific ways in which your particular device’s setup is unique. This is done by looking at the apps and extensions you have, what hardware you’re running, where in the world you are, what timezone you’re in, and even the size of your browser window.

No two individual setups are the same, which means, just like a human fingerprint, these details can be used to identify and track a specific user.

Psylo works to foil this fingerprinting by changing your browser's time zone and language to match the location of the proxy server you’re connected to, making it harder for websites to identify and track where you are in the world. It also works to stop another form of tracking called canvas fingerprinting by implementing canvas randomization, all of which makes your unique fingerprint that much harder to pick out from all the others.

An image of the Psylo interface on an iPhone

(Image credit: Shaun Rockwood)

Psylo is also a no-logs provider. The only information it holds about you is your subscriber number, which it needs to confirm whether or not you’ve paid. It can also see when you’re connected and how much data you’re using, so that it can track your monthly bandwidth allowance. It doesn’t store your browsing history, IP address, or any other kinds of information that might be used to identify you.

Finally, unlike many other browsers these days, you don’t need to worry about Psylo trying to shoehorn in an AI assistant. It’s a browser first and foremost. Oh, and because it’s subscription-supported, you don’t need to worry that it'll overload you with adverts or sell your personal data on to third parties.

Server network

An image showing a list of Psylo's servers in the UK, Germany and Japan

(Image credit: Shaun Rockwood)

Psylo would not work without the network of private proxies that underpin it. The Mysk Private Proxy Network is made up of 40+ servers around the world. While a proxy server usually does not offer the same level of added encryption that you find with a VPN, it still works to anonymize your identity.

Psylo works in partnership with the well-known VPN service Proton VPN to provide the exit nodes for its connections. This means that any website you access through Psylo will see your traffic coming from a Proton VPN IP address.

An additional benefit here is that, because you’re using only Proton VPN’s IP addresses, you’ll still be able to access websites that block or restrict traffic coming from an IP address that’s associated with a datacenter, as these are often connected to fraudulent activity.

These servers are key to Psylo’s functionality, and you must pick a proxy server to connect to before you can create a new silo within the browser.

Apps

As Psylo is built using Apple’s WebKit, it’s currently only available for iPad and iPhone users, though the developers do hope to bring us an Android version in the future.

You can find Psylo in the App Store. Installation is as straightforward as any other app, and the iPad and iPhone apps are laid out the same, so it’s easy to swap from one device to the other.

An image displaying Psylo's tabs within the app.

(Image credit: Shaun Rockwood)

The app is minimalist and simple. Once you’ve created your silos, they’re laid out for you. You tap to open that particular silo and, if you tap and hold, you'll see options to edit the silo details, copy the URL and deep link, or delete that silo.

Other than that, you have a plus sign to add more, and the traditional cogwheel icon to access the settings menu. The settings menu shows your bandwidth usage, subscription details, and you can choose to have the silo tabs show the website address and/or the proxy IP address.

You can also access Mysk’s social media, send an email to the support team, and view the FAQ, Privacy Policy, and TOS.

Ease of use

The Psylo interface could be charitably described as “minimalist”. After you’ve got the app installed and you’ve signed up for a subscription, you’re dropped into an empty black workspace (or a white workspace if you’re not using dark mode on your device), with an invitation to create your first silo.

An image showing the setup process for a silo within Psylo.

(Image credit: Shaun Rockwood)

You need to enter a name, the website address you want to connect to, and then choose a proxy server. You can also give each silo an individual icon and color. Advanced options are tucked into a sub-menu, but it’s unlikely your average user will need these.

It only takes a click to access the silo, and the website you’ve chosen is loaded up automatically. It’s pretty easy to get to grips with, though it’s unlikely this is the sort of browser that would appeal to a beginner or even the average internet user. This is a product targeting someone who values privacy above all else.

Speed and performance

Psylo is a browser designed to interact with websites, and it’s very good at doing so. It renders even image-heavy websites like Amazon’s storefront in a couple of seconds, but it’s not really designed or intended to be used for streaming content, torrenting, or downloading large files.

Its speed tests were remarkably consistent, but also very much on the slower end of things. We tested the UK, US, and Australia proxy servers on a 1 Gb connection, and every test returned a speed just above 21 Mbps.

That’s more than enough for most things when it comes to using the internet and interacting with online apps, but if you’re thinking about doing anything bandwidth-intensive, there are better options than Psylo.

An image depicting Psylo's speed test results.

(Image credit: Shaun Rockwood)

To put these results into context, a download speed of 25 Mbps is recommended for streaming 4K content, so it’s unlikely this is a browser you’d want to use for your movie marathon. Then again, this isn’t really what Psylo is designed for, so we don’t consider these results to be a mark against it.

Unblocking

As mentioned above, Psylo is not really designed with accessing streaming content in mind, and as such, it struggles with the big streaming sites. Trying to access Disney+ or Amazon Prime Video resulted in a prompt to download the specific platform’s app to view content, and the Paramount+ website refused to load at all when connected to either the UK or US proxy servers.

When connected to BBC iPlayer, it detected that our IP address was not in the UK and refused to display any content, even with the UK proxy server connected. This suggests there might be some issues with accessing geo-restricted content. We’ve raised the issue with Psylo’s tech support team, and they are going to look into it, but for now it’s just something to bear in mind.

Privacy and Security

With such a focus on user privacy and security, you would hope that the company’s terms of service and privacy policy reflect that, and Psylo does not disappoint.

Both documents are written in plain, easy-to-understand English and are up front about the information the company collects from you when you sign up for, and use, the product.

Psylo collects your Apple subscription identifier so it knows if you have a valid subscription or not, your App Store region, how much bandwidth you’re using, and timestamps. All uploaded or downloaded data is aggregated by the hour and is rounded to the nearest 50 Mb, making it all the more difficult to identify a specific user. Psylo also does not collect any sort of personally identifiable information (PII), IP addresses, or logs of website visits.

Each of Psylo’s nodes runs an HTTPS proxy server that routes traffic between the silos you create and the target websites via a Proton VPN exit node. These proxy servers can’t see the content of what you’re doing online, but they do see the destination address. Psylo’s no-log policy guarantees that none of this data is logged or stored.

Psylo’s privacy policy is also one of the rare ones that specifies exactly what happens to any stored data once you stop using the service, and how long it will take the company to delete any information it does collect, such as bandwidth data or the details of your subscription.

Psylo is impressively open about the nuts and bolts of its service, despite not being an official open-source product. You can even see a diagram of the system architecture on the Mysk Inc. blog.

Customer support

Psylo has an FAQ available within the app, which goes into detail about the service, including limits on bandwidth, number of silos, details of the no-logs policy, etc. There is also email support, as well as accounts on Bluesky and X/Twitter that you can reach out to with any questions.

At the moment, there’s no live chat support or AI chatbot, but we found the support team responsive and helpful when we reached out during our testing.

An image showing the settings page of Psylo, focused on the support section.

(Image credit: Shaun Rockwood)

Pricing and plans

Psylo is available with a monthly or annual subscription. A monthly subscription is currently £9.99 in the UK ($9.99 in the US), and an annual subscription will cost £99.99 (or $99.99). Psylo is running a deal at present that'll net you 30% off an annual sub, but there’s no getting around the fact that Psylo is one of the more expensive options out there.

£99.99 puts Psylo in the same price bracket as Brave VPN’s annual subscription, which was already nearly twice as much as an annual subscription with a VPN provider like Proton VPN, Surfshark, or even Express VPN, though the month-by-month cost is cheaper than some.

A 7-day free trial is available for users who sign up for the annual subscription, while users who opt to pay monthly get 3 days free to decide if the product is right for them before any money is taken.

Should you use Psylo?

Psylo is an interesting product with some strong selling points and an impressive commitment to user privacy, especially defeating browser fingerprinting. There are some alternatives on the market that can be used to obtain a similar result, but none are quite as effective or as elegant as Psylo and often require both multiple apps as well as a fair degree of technical know-how to make them work properly.

The biggest issue is the subscription cost. In a world where it seems almost everyone has their hand out asking users to cough up for an ongoing subscription, wallets are more strained than they ever have been, and an expensive, niche product like Psylo is likely only going to appeal to a specific subset of people.

All this said, we feel that Psylo is a fast, effective product that does exactly what it sets out to do. If you’re someone who values their privacy above all else and you don’t mind paying for it, then Psylo deserves a place as part of your privacy toolkit.

Alternatives to Psylo

  • The Brave browser is a product with a commitment to user privacy, through what it calls “Shields”. These are designed to block trackers, cross-site cookies, and alert you to phishing or malware risks. It also works to defeat browser fingerprinting by blocking browser-language and font fingerprinting as well as randomizing and/or removing browser features to make you harder to track. Brave also comes with a built-in VPN that requires a subscription to use.
  • Aloha is a privacy-first browser with a built-in VPN. It also features an advert, tracker, and malware blocking, along with a no-logs commitment; however, it does not appear to have any specific measures to defeat browser fingerprinting. So, if that's a specific concern, you'd be better off looking at one of the other alternatives. The free version also comes with adverts that can be removed by signing up for a paid subscription.
  • LibreWolf is another browser that was based on the Firefox browser, but this one comes with far tougher security out of the box. It’s a little on the bare-bones side and offers little in the way of added features beyond the basics, but as with Psylo, this is a browser you use for a very specific reason. Librewolf comes with uBlock built in and offers strong protection against web tracking and browser fingerprinting. The absence of any sort of subscription makes it a tempting alternative.

We test and review VPN services in the context of legal recreational uses. For example:1. Accessing a service from another country (subject to the terms and conditions of that service).2. Protecting your online security and strengthening your online privacy when abroad.We do not support or condone the illegal or malicious use of VPN services. Consuming pirated content that is paid-for is neither endorsed nor approved by Future Publishing.

I tested Canon’s biggest multifunction tank printer and loved it
4:43 pm |

Author: admin | Category: Computers Gadgets Pro | Comments: Off

The Canon imagePROGRAF TC-21M is a large-format printer with a difference; it can also scan and copy. By adding a flatbed scanner to a 24-inch ink tank printer, Canon has created a three-in-one device that could prove indispensable for schools or small businesses wanting to enlarge prints quickly and affordably, or print posters at the point of sale without a PC.

This unique multifunction device can print on cut paper up to LTR or A4 size, or produce banners and personalized wrapping paper on 24-inch wide rolls. With its integrated scanner, you can do more than just copy documents; enlarging graphics such as maps or CAD drawings into A0-size posters can be done via the printer’s own touchscreen interface.

Is it one of the best large format printers? I put it to the test.

Canon imagePROGRAF TC-21M: Design and build

Specs

Type: large format color multifunction inkjet printer

Functions: Print, scan, copy

Connectivity: Ethernet, USB, Wi-Fi

Data storage slots: USB Host

Print speed: A3+ in 4min 15sec

Max paper size: 24-inch roll

Print quality: 2,400 x 1,200 dpi

Memory: 1GB

Apple AirPrint: yes

Consumables included: 4 x 70ml ink bottles

Dimensions/Weight: 968 x 533 x 245 mm (WxDxH)/31.7lb/34kg

The user-friendly design has the same chunky appeal as Canon’s other professional MegaTank models, with the rounded off white plastic casing and large tilting touchscreen display.

It’s quite a large unit because the 24-inch paper roll fits neatly inside where it’s kept clean and dust-free. The four ink reservoirs add to the bulk, but given its broad functionality, I’d say this printer is pretty compact.

The A4 scanner platen adds nothing to the size when you compare the multifunction imagePROGRAF TC-21M with the otherwise identical print-only version called imagePROGRAF TC-21, without the ‘M' for multifunction.

Canon imagePROGRAF TC-21M: Features & specifications

This is a three-in-one device so you can print, scan and copy. There’s no fax, but it has plenty of other features, enriched by its wide format capabilities. Naturally, it has Wi-Fi with AirPrint, Mopria and Chrome OS compatibility, but it can also enlarge A4 or smaller documents up to A0, or repeat the scanned image to produce banners or wrapping paper on the paper roll.

Alternatively, you can shrink your scans down to make name tags or business cards. Basically, this versatile machine has a much longer list of paper size options than your average wide-format printer.

There’s room for 100 sheets of plain letter or A4 paper in the main tray, while larger sheets of cut paper are loaded one at a time. The internal roll holder will take anything up to 24-inches wide. There’s no output tray to collect your prints, unless you buy the optional stand with integrated basket for around US$180 (£140).

There’s no auto duplex mode either, but there is a USB Host port beside the touchscreen display for a convenient way of printing to, or scanning from a thumb drive.

Canon imagePROGRAF TC-21M: Setup and operation

Getting your new Canon imagePROGRAF TC-21M started is much like installing any inkjet printer, except that it takes two to lift it onto the table. There’s also the extra time needed to fit a roll or paper, but the shaftless roll holder makes this quite easy.

The box includes four 70ml bottles of ink which pour into the tanks on the right hand side and the keyed bottle spouts make it impossible to fill the wrong tank.

The touchscreen simplifies the setup procedure by telling you what to do next. It’s even quicker to download Canon’s Print app onto your smartphone and use that to connect it to your local Wi-Fi network. The app also makes it easy to print and scan remotely, or check the printer’s status and ink levels.

Canon imagePROGRAF TC-21M: Performance

Canon imagePROGRAF TC-21M during our review

(Image credit: Canon // Future)

The Canon imagePROGRAF TC-21M printed without a hitch and only suffered one A4 paper jam during my tests, which was easily rectified. Overall, it scored highly on ease-of-use and print quality. It takes nearly two minutes to print an A1 poster in standard quality, so it’s not fast, but the results are very good. It also has a draft mode which almost doubles the print speed and the slightly paler print quality is fine for gift paper and the like.

Canon’s single bubble jet printhead has a total of 4,352 nozzles spraying its four pigment inks onto the paper and producing detailed prints at 1,200 x 2,400 dpi resolution. It’s equally adept at printing color documents on A4 paper, as it is on A1.

The four colors look bright and being pigment-based, they dry quickly for smudge-resident and longer lasting results. This is perfect for large maps, CAD drawings and poster-sized graphics, where the vivid colors look pleasing vibrant on plain paper.

With coated photo paper, you still get bright and detailed images, but unsurprisingly, it doesn’t achieve the wide color gamut and natural shading of photo printers like the 12-ink Canon imagePROGRAF PRO-1100. It’s certainly good enough to say that the Canon imagePROGRAF TC-21M has strong all-round print quality.

The CIS scanner worked well and made it possible to blow up A4 test documents to A1 size without any real loss of detail. I can see how this application would be useful in a shop, or school setting where posters can be produced without the need of a PC.

I found it quite easy to use the printers touchscreen to turn a test scan into a repeated pattern that could be used as wrapping paper. I did the same thing using Canon’s PosterArt, which is an equally user-friendly piece of software that comes free with the printer.

The only slight problem I had was a practical one. Without the optional stand or any extendable flap to collect each printout, you have to catch each print as it emerges and before the internal cutter sweeps across to dump them on the floor. Easily solved by moving the printer to a bigger table.

Canon imagePROGRAF TC-21M: Consumables

Canon imagePROGRAF TC-21M during our review

(Image credit: Canon // Future)

As a refillable ink tank printer, the Canon imagePROGRAF TC-21M is potentially very economical to run, which is important in a printer designed for running out such large prints.

The box includes four 70ml bottles, which is roughly enough ink for around 6,000 letter or A4 pages. While a replacement Canon PFI-050 multipack is significantly cheaper than cartridge ink, it’s quite expensive for bottled ink.

I found compatible pigment ink tended to be around a quarter the price of Canon-branded ink.

Canon imagePROGRAF TC-21M: Maintenance

Being an inkjet, the Canon imagePROGRAF TC-21M is prone to drying out and suffering clogged nozzles if left unused, but this can usually be solved by simply running a maintenance cycle.

Just enter the printer’s on-screen settings and choose one of the cleaning cycles to flush the nozzles. Further down the line, you may need to replace the PF-08 printhead and MC-32 maintenance cartridge, both of which are reasonably priced by Canon.

Canon imagePROGRAF TC-21M: Final verdict

Canon imagePROGRAF TC-21M during our review

(Image credit: Canon // Future)

I enjoyed turning out bright poster-sized prints and banners with the Canon imagePROGRAF TC-21M simply by blowing up images on its integrated scanner. It proved to be a very versatile product with its wide paper size compatibility and two input options.

The touchscreen interface and bundled PosterArtist software ensure it’s easy to use, and with the scanner, front USB port and Wi-Fi with AirPrint compatibility, it’s pretty well featured.

No, it can’t auto-duplex and it’s better with graphics and line drawing than photos, but otherwise, the strong print quality, and the affordability of its bottled ink will make this an essential accessory in many a shop, school or studio.

For more print solutions, I've comprehensively tested the best small business printers and best home printers.

After weeks of testing, the 11th-gen iPad proves it’s still one of the best – even without Apple Intelligence
4:07 pm |

Author: admin | Category: Computers Gadgets iPad Tablets | Comments: Off

Apple iPad (A16): One-Minute Review

Choosing the best iPad these days can be tricky. Not only are there several models to choose from, but all of those models are also pretty well-specced, and they increasingly look similar.

I've spent several weeks testing the latest iteration of Apple's entry-level tablet, which for the purposes of this review we'll mostly refer to as the 11th-gen iPad. You may also have seen it referred to as the iPad (A16), or the iPad 2025. It’s not noticeably different from the 10th-gen model that arrived in 2022, and which ushered in a significant redesign that brought plenty of modernization.

Instead, this is a more under-the-hood upgrade that keeps Apple's most affordable iPad ever-so-modern and ensures that it'll still be kicking for many years to come. The biggest change is a jump in processing power to the Apple-made A16 – it's not a light-years-ahead upgrade from the A14 Bionic in the 10th-gen iPad, but it's still zippy-fast for opening apps and completing most tasks you'd want to do on an iPad.

Those tasks include playing games, browsing the web, multitasking with two apps, using handwriting recognition with the Apple Pencil, or doing any of the above while on a FaceTime call, without slowing things down or unduly draining the battery life. While testing this iPad alongside an iPad Pro with M4 and the 11-inch iPad Air with M3, I didn't always find myself reaching for those to perform more demanding tasks, thanks to the performance on offer here.

This iPad still boasts a sizable 10.9-inch Liquid Retina display, offering a nice experience for watching almost anything; however, the glossy finish does make it harder to use in very bright environments. Still, there are no issues with color accuracy or the reproduction of visuals here. Apple's still tucking the front-facing cameras alongside the top here, which makes the Magic Keyboard Folio, or at least a Smart Folio, a nice addition. The Magic Keyboard for this iPad still splits into two, which I quite like, but it's not a free upgrade.

Out of the box, this iPad is running iPadOS 18, and it runs really well here, thanks to the A16 chip, but it's not enough power to support Apple Intelligence. That might be a deal breaker for some, but I don't see it as a major shortcoming based on my testing. Remember, you can download ChatGPT from the App Store and it'll work just fine here.

One piece of excellent news is that there will be no price increase for the new entry-level iPad, which means no premium for the A16 chip, and Apple is also doubling the starting storage to 128GB.

While the 11th Gen iPad is sticking with more affordable prices at $349 / £329 / AU$599, it's still more expensive than the 9th Gen iPad once was – with hindsight, that tablet was an excellent deal. Even so, I think many people will find themselves at home with the 11th-gen iPad, they just need a basic model or someone who wants to get a bit more out of an older iPad, like the 9th Gen.

Apple iPad 11th-gen: Specs

iPad Air (A16) Specs

iPad (A16)

Starting price

$349 / £329 / AU$599

Operating System

iPadOS 18

Chipset

A16

Memory (RAM)

6GB

Storage

128GB / 256GB / 512GB

Display

11-inch LED Backlit (2360 x 1640) IPS LCD

Cameras

12MP wide main, 12MP ultrawide front

Battery

28.93Wh

Connectivity

Wi-Fi 6 and Bluetooth 5.3. 5G Sub-6Ghz and Gigabit LTE on Cellular models.

Weight

1.05lbs / 0.475kg without cellular and 1.06lbs / 0.48kg with

Dimensions

9.79 x 7.07 x 0.28 inches / 24.9 x 17.95 x 0.7mm (L x W x D)

Apple iPad A16: Pricing and Availability

11th Gen iPad (A16) Review

(Image credit: Jacob Krol/Future)
  • The 11th-gen iPad starts at $349 / £329 / AU$599
  • One major change: it now starts with 128GB of storage
  • It comes in Pink, Yellow, Blue, and Silver

Apple's 11th Gen iPad – also known as the iPad A16 or the 2025 iPad – is on sale now with a starting price of $349 / £329 / AU$599. That starting price gets you 128GB of storage, which is double the starting storage of the 11th-gen iPad with no price increase.

You can choose to upgrade that storage to 256GB or 512GB, but it will cost you. Storage aside, all models have the same specifications, including the A16 chip inside. The 11th-gen iPad comes in four colors: Blue, Pink, Yellow, or Silver.

Apple iPad 11th Gen: Design

11th Gen iPad (A16) Review

(Image credit: Jacob Krol/Future)
  • The 11th-gen iPad keeps the more modern design that the 10th-gen model ushered in
  • It no longer says 'iPad' on the back, now matching the rest of the lineup
  • This iPad still feels pretty high-end, with an aluminum build, and is easily portable

As I hinted at above, my favorite part of the iPad A16 – aside from the value proposition it provides – would be the design, and specifically the colors, as the rest of it is basically unchanged. My review model is a lovely shade of Pink that’s vibrant and fun.

Like most other iPads, and different from the likes of a Samsung Galaxy Tab or an Amazon Fire HD tablet, the entry-level iPad A16 is mostly a slice of aluminum. It’s effective at hiding fingerprints on the sides and rear, thanks to its mostly matte finish. This also allows the shade of Pink to vary here, depending on how the light hits it – either bouncing off with a highlight or looking a bit more muted.

The only glossy and fingerprint-prone area on the rear would be the Apple logo. Just like the updated iPad Air with M3 in the 11-inch or 13-inch size, this iPad no longer says iPad on the back. It’s a simple cosmetic change that gives this iPad a more minimalist finish.

If pink isn’t your thing, Apple also offers the iPad A16 in Yellow, Blue, or Silver – all crafted from that single piece of aluminum.

11th Gen iPad (A16) Review

(Image credit: Jacob Krol/Future)

The rest of the story with the design is mainly bezels and buttons. Apple reserves Face ID and the True Depth Sensor stack for the iPad Pro, meaning that to unlock or authenticate securely without entering a pin, you place a finger on the power and sleep button, thanks to it being finished with a piece of glass.

That critical material enables Touch ID, and it works well – I just recommend setting up one finger from each of your hands so that you can better unlock your iPad, regardless of how you’re holding it. The power/sleep button, located at the top, is accessible when you hold the tablet vertically or on the left-hand side when held horizontally, making either position convenient. The volume up and volume down buttons are right next to it.

The only other input-output element is the USB-C port on the bottom, which remains unchanged from the previous-generation 10.9-inch entry-level iPad. In fact, almost every part of the design is unchanged here.

There are stereo speakers that push sound out at the top and bottom when the tablet is vertical or left and right when it’s held horizontally. There’s a main 12-megapixel camera centered along the longer side of the iPad – that’s on the top when held horizontally or on the right side when held vertically – and it delivers excellent performance for video calls. Apple has also kept a 12-megapixel camera on the rear as well.

While Apple didn’t redesign anything here, the 10.9-inch iPad remains a well-crafted tablet, and its modern look and feel complement its performance. It has nearly identical looks to the higher-priced iPad Air and feels at home next to an iPad mini or even an iPad Pro. It still comes in just one screen size, and as I’ll detail below, the 10.9-inch size, which Apple markets as 11-inch, is ideal for a wide range of tasks.

It’s easily portable, weighing in at just 1.06lbs / 0.48kg if you opt for cellular connectivity, or 1.05lbs / 0.475kg with a standard Wi-Fi-only connection. If you’re upgrading from the previous generation, it keeps the exact dimensions – 9.79 x 7.07 x 0.28 inches / 24.9 x 17.95 x 0.7mm – which means your existing Smart Cover Folio or Magic Keyboard Folio will work just fine.

  • Design score: 4 / 5

Apple iPad 11th Gen: Display

11th Gen iPad (A16) Review

(Image credit: Jacob Krol/Future)
  • The 10.9-inch Liquid Retina display is great for most tasks
  • The glossy display can make it harder to use in very bright conditions
  • The 11th-gen iPad supports two Apple Pencils

If you’re looking for an iPad to browse the web, use various apps, stream movies or TV shows, play some games, and even do a little work, you’ll have no problem with the iPad in almost any scenario.

That’s a testament to the upgrades Apple rolled out in 2022, when it introduced this updated look for the most affordable iPad. The iPad A16 still boasts a 10.9-inch display, although, as Apple has done with the iPad Air and iPad Pro, it rounds that up to 11 inches in the marketing blurb – you’ll see in a footnote on Apple’s tech specs page for the iPad A16 saying it has a 10.86-inch display, which we’ve found to be the same as the 10.9-inch size of the previous generation.

Apple is still opting for its Liquid Retina display technology, and the 11th-gen iPad has an LED IPS screen that offers a resolution of 2360 x 1640 pixels. In my testing, I’ve found that it’s great for watching Severance on Apple TV+ or Nobody Wants This on Netflix, as well as for browsing the web, working within TechRadar’s CMS, or typing in a document. I’ve found that it can get punchy with colors. It’s a great screen to use in general.

The only issues are that it has a glossy, reflective finish, which makes it challenging to use the iPad A16 in really bright scenarios, and that fingerprints easily show on this display. The 11-inch iPad Air with M3 most certainly has the iPad A16 beat here, as it features an additional coating to block reflections, and it can produce even more vibrant colors. Then again, it is a bit more expensive.

I also had no issues with writing or sketching using either the Apple Pencil (first generation) or the Apple Pencil with USB-C on the iPad A16. Using both models here felt quite close to writing with an actual pencil or pen on a sheet of paper, in that there wasn’t a noticeable lag.

  • Display score: 4 / 5

Apple iPad 11th Gen: Cameras

11th Gen iPad (A16) Review

(Image credit: Jacob Krol/Future)
  • The camera setup on the 11th-gen iPad remains unchanged from that of the 10th-gen
  • That's fine, though, as the selfie camera is awesome, mainly thanks to its CenterStage tech
  • There's still a rear 12-megapixel camera with no flash as well

The previous-generation iPad (10th-generation, also known as the 10.9-inch or 2022) saw Apple correcting its placement of the selfie camera on its iPads, and the iPad A16 doesn’t make waves by moving it again.

As I mentioned above, the 12-megapixel CenterStage camera lives on the longside of the iPad A16, so if you have it placed in the Magic Keyboard Folio or the Smart Cover and have it laying horizontally, it’ll be in the right spot for you to record a video – maybe a monologue or an audition tape – or to take a video call.

The latter is really where this camera excels. Sure, it’s fine for snapping a selfie, but the CenterStage tech uses some onboard software tricks to always keep you in the frame. So, if you’re prone to pacing on video calls, the A16 processor inside will do the work to keep you in the shot. It’ll work in tandem with the stereo microphones to pick up your voice as well.

If you jump up, crouch down, move to the left, or the right, the camera will slowly but surely pan to keep you in the frame. Remember, though, that it can only follow you so far, as the camera itself isn’t moving. The 12-megapixel camera itself supports up to 1080p HD recording, and is the same one that’s used on the 10th-gen and 9th-gen iPads.

If you want to take photos or record video with your iPad, this model again has a 12-megapixel camera on the rear that works just fine. Don’t expect it to rival the camera built into your phone, or a dedicated camera, though.

  • Cameras score: 4 / 5

Apple iPad 11th Gen: Software

11th Gen iPad (A16) Review

(Image credit: Jacob Krol/Future)
  • Fans of iPadOS will feel right at home on the 11th-gen iPad, as it's the classic experience
  • With iPadOS 18, you can still split the screen between two apps and also use picture-in-picture
  • Apple Intelligence isn't supported here, but Math Notes does work

Ever since Apple split the iPad’s operating system off from iOS into iPadOS, its tablets have been increasingly treading the line between being entertainment devices and productivity machines. The 11th-gen iPad is similarly multi-talented, and the leap to Apple’s A16 chip over the A14 Bionic in the 10th Gen or the A13 Bionic in the 9th Gen ensures that everything runs smoothly here.

I threw a wide range of tasks at the iPad A16, and it didn’t let me down, although it might have made me wait a bit longer for some things. iPadOS 18 here, though, runs very well and didn’t exhibit any noticeable slowdowns when doing the things most people will use the iPad for. I could open nearly every app in what felt like the blink of an eye, from Safari, Messages, games and streaming services to more demanding ones like iMovie or Final Cut Pro. I could also split the screen without slowing things down and run a video in picture-in-picture, or a FaceTime call while having two other applications open.

The iPad A16 is a very competent device for most tasks – you could easily use it in school or college, splitting the screen to take notes with an Apple Pencil on one side and viewing a slide deck or highlighting lines in a virtual textbook on the other. I could use it for work, responding to emails and Slack, then switching to Safari or Google Chrome to edit or write stories on the web. I also edited a few photos in Pixelmator Pro without a hitch.

11th Gen iPad (A16) Review

(Image credit: Jacob Krol/Future)

Something you won’t find supported here, though, is Apple Intelligence. The A16 is not one of the chips that Apple says can handle it, so those features are not here, nor will they arrive in the future. That means the 11th-gen iPad will not receive the new AI-powered Siri whenever it ships and, currently, doesn’t support features like Writing Tools, Genmoji, Imagic Playground, the new look for Siri, or – one of my favorites – Clean Up in Photos.

If you're looking for an iPad that can run Apple Intelligence, the iPad A16 isn’t the model for you, and you’ll need to consider the iPad mini, Air, or Pro. However, I don’t think this will be a deal-breaker for the type of user this tablet is aimed at. If you’re simply after an iPad on which you can browse the web, work with nearly any app on the App Store, and enjoy some gaming, FaceTime with friends, or Netflix streaming, with some productivity tools thrown in and Apple Pencil support, you’ll be right at home.

Furthermore, you can get AI features running on the iPad A16 by downloading Google Gemini, ChatGPT, or any number of services. I’ve tested those first two here, plus Copilot, and they work just fine. And one of the standout machine learning features from Apple, MathNotes within the Calculator or Notes app, also works just fine here.

One last note on software – while the iPad A16 with iPadOS 18 can’t run StageManager, Apple’s more advanced multitasking solution for iPads, it will support iPadOS 26 and receive a whole host of upgrades when that arrives later this year, likely in September or October 2025. And yes, that does mean true to the iPad windowing of apps, a menu bar, and the ability to place folders in the dock. I think it will stretch the mileage even further here, and the Apple silicon inside should keep it running for many years.

  • Software score: 4 / 5

Apple iPad 11th Gen: Performance

11th Gen iPad (A16) Review

(Image credit: Jacob Krol/Future)
  • The A16 chip keeps things running promptly, even if it's not a night-and-day upgrade over the previous generation
  • Even more power-hungry tasks like creative edits run well here, but will take some time

Now let’s break down the specifics of the Apple-made A16 chip that powers the 11th-generation iPad. The A16 consists of a 5-core CPU, a 4-core GPU, and a 16-core Neural Engine, and remains relatively modern even in 2025, despite being introduced with the iPhone 14 Pro and 14 Pro Max.

The other hardware change, alongside the A16 chip, is the doubling of the storage to 128GB from the start, which means plenty of room for apps, videos, and anything else you’d want to store on the iPad. It certainly punches up the value of the device as well.

Inside this iPad, the A16 gives you a tremendous runway – think of it as a performance superhighway – for really any conceivable task you might want to run here. No, it doesn’t essentially eliminate load times, as is the case with the M3-powered iPad Air or the M4-powered iPad Pro, but you’ll be hard pressed to make things slow down here.

I primarily encountered slowdowns when using more creativity-focused applications, such as Pixelmator Pro, Final Cut Pro, or any Adobe Suite product, including Premiere Rush or Photoshop for iPad. Most games, whether Apple Arcade titles or just purchased from the App Store, ran just fine here, and multitasking with picture-in-picture on top didn’t seem to cause much of an issue.

I also ran the iPad A16 through Geekbench 6, which runs the device through a series of tests in a stress-test fashion, and here are the results: 2,577 on single-core and 5,408 on multi-core. While those scores don't beat those of the iPad Air with M3 – and we wouldn’t expect them to – they show that the latest entry-level iPad isn’t any slouch. It matches up pretty clearly without everyday use.

It’s also a highly efficient chip, and it’s paired with a 28.93Wh rechargeable battery inside, which is the same-size cell as in the 11-inch iPad Air with M3. Apple promises up to 10 hours of video playback or surfing the web over Wi-Fi, and up to nine hours on cellular. A better benchmark is that the iPad A16 can last for a full workday of use, depending on the apps you're using. It ships with a USB-C to USB-C cable and a power brick in the box, allowing you to recharge when needed.

  • Performance score: 4.5 / 5

Apple iPad 11th Gen: Should you buy it?

Attributes

Notes

Rating

Value

With double the starting storage and the same starting prices as well as the A16 chip and promised future software updates, the entry-level iPad strikes a great value posistion.

4.5/5

Design

The entry-level still looks like a modern tablet with a higher-end design over competitors and support for Touch ID.

4/5

Display

Everything from streaming movies to browsing the web with calls, games, and editing in between looks great, I just wish it got a little brighter to combat using it outside on sunny days.

4/5

Cameras

The CenterStage functionality of the front-facing camera makes this a great device for calls.

4/5

Software

iPadOS 16 runs really well here and gives you basic multitasking and supports the Apple Pencil.

4/5

Performance

The A16 isn't a huge leap over the A14 Bionic and doesn't support Apple Intelligence, but it keeps things running very smoothly and lets you use the iPad for really any conceivable task.

4.5/5

Buy it if...

You have an aging iPad or other tablet

Apple's latest entry-level iPad makes a lot of sense if you have an older iPad (maybe something beyond the 9th Gen) or another tablet and have been wanting better performance, battery life, or a larger screen. View Deal

You want an iPad for the basics and then some

With 128GB of starting storage, an excellent 10.9-inch screen, and the A16 chip, the 11th Gen iPad works exceptionally well for a broad range of tasks, including work and entertainment.View Deal

You don't want to spend a ton

With a starting price of $349/£329/AU$599, this is the most affordable way to enter Apple's iPad lineup in terms of a new model.View Deal

Don't buy it if...

You need more power

If you want an iPad that can rival the best laptops and serve as your one device for everything, you'll likely want to consider the M3-powered iPad Air or the iPad Pro with M4.View Deal

Your current iPad is working just fine

Considering that even the 9th Gen iPad will receive iPadOS 16 later in 2025, if your current iPad still meets your needs, then you don't need to make the upgrade just yet.View Deal

Also Consider

Apple iPad Air with M3 (2025)

With the 11-inch size just as portable as the 11th Gen base iPad, the Air is all about speeding things up even further, featuring a better screen that doesn't have issues operating on a bright, sunny day, and the ability to pair it with an even better Magic Keyboard.View Deal

Samsung Galaxy Tab S9

It's our pick for the best Android tablet for most folks, and the Galaxy Tab S9 really toes the line of being an excellent slate for both work and play, nearly as well as the iPad.View Deal

Apple iPad 11th Gen: How I Tested

11th Gen iPad (A16) Review

(Image credit: Jacob Krol/Future)

I spent several weeks with the 11th Gen iPad (A16) in Pink, using it with a few Apple-made accessories, including the Magic Keyboard Folio, a Smart Folio, a first-generation Apple Pencil, and the Apple Pencil USB-C. I first unboxed the iPad and then set it up as a new tablet, before beginning to install my usual apps to start using it.

I tested the new, entry-level iPad alongside the new iPad Air with M3 for a few days, conducting comparison testing to see how the two similar iPads, in terms of build, hold up.

I also tried to use the iPad A16 as my primary device for testing. I use the iPad for a broad range of tasks, including much of my job, like responding to Slack, emails, editing photos or videos, and writing and editing stories. I also streamed hours of content from some of the best streaming services and played several games on the tablet.

Wild Hearts S isn’t exactly definitive, but I’m glad the underrated monster hunting game has a home on Switch 2
3:00 pm |

Author: admin | Category: Computers Consoles & PC Gadgets Gaming Nintendo | Comments: Off
Review information

Platform reviewed: Nintendo Switch 2
Available on: Nintendo Switch 2 (originally released on PS5, Xbox Series X|S, and PC)
Release date: July 25, 2025

Wild Hearts S is the Nintendo Switch 2 port of the 2023 action game, developed by Dynasty Warriors team Omega Force, and this time published in-house at Koei Tecmo. No longer an EA Originals title, Wild Hearts S has been given a chance to shine on Nintendo’s new hardware. So how does it fare?

Well, performance and visuals are a mixed bag. Wild Hearts S targets 60 frames per second (fps), but unfortunately rarely meets that goal. Instead, frame rate can fluctuate wildly, especially in busy, visually dense areas. Graphics on Switch 2 are also noticeably worse than the original PS5 and Xbox Series X|S release, with greatly simplified textures and geometry. Thankfully, the kemono (Wild Hearts’ term for monsters) still look and animate fantastically, as does your player character.

Thankfully, it never reaches a point that I’d call outright unplayable. If you can get used to the performance and presentational downgrades, Wild Hearts S is a solid port of an underrated game that was never able to leave the long, wyvern-like shadow cast by Capcom’s Monster Hunter series.

Far from being an uninspired clone or quickly-made cash-in, Wild Hearts brings plenty of its own ideas to the monster-hunting subgenre. Its karakuri system is fantastic, as it lets players quickly place down contraptions that are useful for both combat and traversal. Its roster of weapons is interesting, too, with each category falling squarely in that satisfying ‘easy to learn, hard to master’ stable.

It’s a game that I strongly believe doesn’t get enough credit for the things it does right. But that’s not to say there aren’t some frustrating elements. Overall movement can feel a bit stiff, the camera can be your worst enemy, and even early game kemono punish new players hard by hitting like trucks.

But if you’re willing to overlook its shortcomings - and a relative lack of polish compared to Capcom’s flagship franchise - there’s plenty to love about Wild Hearts S.

Real face

Wild Hearts S

(Image credit: Koei Tecmo)

The main drive of Wild Hearts is that you’re a hunter from a distant land, trying to find a new purpose away from the chaos of the world. You’re drawn to a land ravaged by deadly beasts - known as kemono - and decide to help the town of Minato rebuild and fight back against the threat these creatures pose.

The story is as basic as it gets, but it’s certainly not offensively bad. It’s very much a vehicle to guide you from monster to monster, location to location. What is neat, though, is that the four main areas outside of Minato are massive, and each is inspired by a different season of the year.

After a brief tutorial, which introduces you to some basic combat against smaller monsters and the awesome karakuri system (more on that soon), you’ll have a chance to create your character. If you’ve done character creation in other Koei Tecmo games, like Nioh 2 or Wo Long: Fallen Dynasty, it’s very similar here with plenty of options to customize your appearance, hairstyle, and cosmetics. Definitely one of those where you can literally spend your first hour perfecting your look.

Threads of fate

Wild Hearts S

(Image credit: Koei Tecmo)

Your initial run of hunts in Wild Hearts will gradually introduce you to the karakuri system, which is easily my favorite part of the game. Karakuri are wooden, mechanical contraptions that you can spawn instantly from a quick-select menu, and there are tons of different types that aid you in both combat and traversal.

The most basic of these is a stackable box, which can either help you climb to high ledges or allow you to jump into the air for a plunging attack. Springs, meanwhile, can propel you over gaps or let you lunge at a monster for a surprise attack. These and more have multiple uses, providing a good amount of depth to the game.

That’s kind of a running theme with most karakuri devices - they’ll almost always have more than one use. The game doesn’t always spell out the uses to you outright, either, so there’s plenty of room for experimentation.

Furthermore, some karakuri can combine into larger, more powerful devices. Stacking six boxes creates a bulwark, for example, which can stop charging beasts dead in their tracks. Elsewhere, three torches stacked together create a firework that can ground flying beasts.

Naturally, these hybrid karakuri are more expensive to spawn (the system has its own ‘currency’ called thread, which you can gather from rocks, trees and so on), and outside of tutorial moments introducing you to their uses for the first time, it’s largely up to you to figure out when best to deploy them against specific monsters.

Maybe what I love most about karakuri is that you can place them literally anywhere on the open map. Struggling to locate a monster? Pop down a radar tower to scan the surroundings. Need to cross a large swath of land? The flying vine can zip you over there in a flash. What if you need an extra fast travel point? You can set up a base camp and various amenities anywhere you want. It’s an impressively fluid and dynamic system, and one that can help you shape any hunting ground in your favor.

Hunter monster

Wild Hearts S

(Image credit: Koei Tecmo)

Wild Hearts’ core objective of hunting large monsters may sound part and parcel for the subgenre, but its pace is decidedly different from that of Capcom’s Monster Hunter series, especially. In Wild Hearts, there’s nothing in the way of item management, and food buffs can be applied at any time, just while you’re out in the field.

That may disappoint some looking for something a bit more slow-paced and preparatory. But Wild Hearts does make up for this in its fast-paced action, aggressive monsters, and its interesting take on build variety.

To start, Wild Hearts handles weapon categories pretty differently from what you might expect. The karakuri katana, for example, is perhaps the easiest to understand. It builds meter as you attack, and when full, it can transform into a whip-like weapon with a powerful, modified move set.

Best bit

Wild Hearts S

(Image credit: Koei Tecmo)

Wild Hearts S’s karakuri system is a creative and innovative addition to the monster hunting subgenre, greatly expanding traversal and combat possibilities. Examples include planting a spring to launch yourself at a monster for a surprise attack or placing a zipline to cross massive distances quickly. It’s awesome, and I hope we get to see the system expand in a potential sequel someday.

The karakuri staff is a bit more interesting. It morphs between four forms - each with its own move set - with a carefully timed press of ‘ZR’, and these morph attacks build meter when connecting with a monster. At full gauge, you can morph the weapon into a comically large buster sword, unleashing diabolical amounts of damage. It’s a very risky weapon, though; the sword combo is slow and locks you in place, while knowing the best time to morph the weapon is a learning experience in and of itself.

The bladed wagasa is similarly risky, rewarding successfully-timed parries with massive damage. However, my favorite has to be the claw blade, which has a hook you can embed into a creature before swinging around and towards it like a deranged, combat-ready George of the Jungle.

The way you go about upgrading weapons and armor is really interesting, too. Each weapon type has a universal skill tree, which branches off into weapons you can create from various monster parts. While you can beeline from the start of the tree to your desired weapon, it actually can pay dividends to plan out a route on the skill tree that provides unlockable traits which you can carry over to the final build. You don’t need to worry about wasting materials if you mess up or change your mind, either, as you can reset the tree at any time for a small gold fee, refunding all materials used.

Armor is a similar story, most featuring unique skills like increased health or dodging distance while out on a hunt. The key thing here, though, is a gauge that tilts in either a ‘human’ or ‘kemono’ direction depending on which pieces you have equipped. This is important as certain skills will only become active if you’re in the right spot on this gauge, either on the human or kemono side. You can also make human or kemono-inspired versions of armor sets after crafting the base piece, to further influence the gauge.

It’s a really interesting approach that reminded me of how Monster Hunter players craft hybrid sets that target specific skill activations. In Wild Hearts’ case, you may have to sacrifice some defence or elemental resistances in order to get the skills you want, again bringing an element of risk-versus-reward to gameplay. It’s cool.

What's the 'S' for?

Wild Hearts S

(Image credit: Koei Tecmo)

So what are the big differences in the Nintendo Switch 2 version of Wild Hearts? Well, the game now supports multiplayer for up to four players, an increase from the original release’s three. It’s unfortunately not crossplay, though, which makes Wild Hearts S an independent experience that’ll live or die on the Switch 2’s player base. Another slight downer is that the game doesn’t support voice chat, so you’ll need to rely on GameChat or an app like Discord when playing with friends.

Wild Hearts S does pack in all of the original’s post-launch support from the get-go at least. That includes additional kemono and quests, though there isn’t anything brand new or exclusive to this Switch 2 version that you wouldn’t have seen in the original 2023 package.

Aside from four player multiplayer, then, it’s all sounding like a bit of a downgrade so far. And if you were hoping for a fresh, transformative experience compared to the original release, you’re going to be let down. What doesn’t help here is that the game on Switch 2 does look noticeably worse in the visuals department, and performance can be rocky at the best of times.

Wild Hearts S does at least boast some pretty impressive load times, and quality-of-life features have been implemented. These include buffs to certain weapons and armor sets, as well as a reduced frequency of how often kemono will flee to another area (which was a huge gripe I had with the original).

Otherwise, while the port itself certainly leaves a lot to be desired, Wild Hearts S is still a great and more affordable version of the original at retail price. There’s a ton of content to sink your teeth into here, especially if you’re looking for something different in the lull period between Monster Hunter Wilds patches. It’s definitely not as polished or long-lasting as Capcom’s game, but there are plenty of fresh, fun ideas in Wild Hearts that absolutely make it worth checking out.

Should you play Wild Hearts S?

Play it if...

You want a unique take on the monster-hunting subgenre
Wild Hearts has plenty of ideas all of its own, including the innovative karakuri system and an interesting take on weapon and armor upgrades.

You’ll have friends to play with on Switch 2
Wild Hearts S has support for four players via online multiplayer. If you know some friends who’re interested in picking up this release, then you’ll probably have a blast.

Don't play it if...

You were hoping for pristine performance
There have been some impressive Switch 2 ports on the performance front, like Street Fighter 6 and Cyberpunk 2077, but Wild Hearts S isn’t quite there with a notable drop in fidelity and performance that often can’t sit still.

Accessibility

There’s a healthy amount of accessibility options in Wild Hearts S, which could be a knock-on effect of Koei Tecmo working with Electronic Arts for the original release. EA is typically on point when it comes to accessibility options, too, so to see them maintained in this Switch 2 version is great.

You’re getting a suite of colorblind options here for the game’s user interface - protanopia, deuteranopia, and tritanopia - as well as subtitle customization including size, color, and background opacity. You can also change the size of in-game text in general, alter how long you need to hold a button down for certain prompts, and force monophonic audio from all sources.

How I reviewed Wild Hearts S

I’ve put 15 hours into Wild Hearts S on Nintendo Switch 2. Having played through the original release on Xbox Series X back in the day, I was already greatly familiar with the game, and I enjoyed it as much now as I did back in 2023. That said, the Switch 2 version doesn’t offer much in the way of substantial additions or improvements, so the overall experience is very similar.

I largely played in docked mode on an LG CX OLED TV, using the Nintendo Switch 2 Pro Controller as my go-to gamepad. I also spent some time in handheld mode, but performance is predictably worse here, so I stuck to TV play as much as I could.

Google Chrome Enterprise Review: Features, Usage, and Competition
1:49 pm |

Author: admin | Category: Browsers Chrome Computers Computing Gadgets Internet | Comments: Off

Chrome Enterprise is Google’s enterprise-centric version of its popular Chrome browser. With Chrome Enterprise, businesses get the ability to remotely manage the browser and its various aspects, for all their employees across the company.

They can, for instance, manage and control the use of web apps, and extensions, and can influence all kinds of browser settings. Chrome Enterprise also offers several security controls, protects against malware and phishing attempts, and even offers data loss prevention functionality.

This is especially useful these days as web browsers have emerged as a doorway to cyberattacks. In fact, several security reports have shown that a majority of security breaches hit companies through their browsers.

This doesn’t come as a surprise since the growth of cloud-based applications, and powerful SaaS platforms, combined with the accelerated adoption of remote working, has helped transform the web browser into an all-in-one workstation.

Here’s everything you want to know about Chrome Enterprise and whether it’s the best web browser for your business.

Chrome Enterprise: Features

Google Chrome enterprise browser review

(Image credit: Google)

Chrome Enterprise is built around the Chrome web browser and inherits all its security features, and productivity enhancements.

For instance, Chrome Enterprise too runs every web page and web app in an isolated environment of its own to protect other tabs against malicious code. You also get Google’s Gemini AI to help create content and summarize information, as well as improve your search with Google Lens.

Besides the regular browser features, Chrome Enterprise also gets you a cloud-based management and reporting interface for free in the form of Chrome Enterprise Core.

After signing up for Chrome Enterprise Core, IT admins can control how your employees use their browsers, from a single console, irrespective of whether they use Windows machines, Linux distros, MacBooks, and Macs, or even iOS and Android devices.

The IT department can segregate browsers into multiple groups for fine-tuned control. This allows them to define and implement different policies for different departments, different job profiles, and even different offices. They can, for instance, mandate certain extensions for the sales team, while disabling them for remote developers.

Google Chrome enterprise browser review

(Image credit: Google)

Talking of extensions, you can use Chrome Enterprise Core to allow, block, force-install or pin Chrome extensions, and even enable your employees to request extensions. IT admins can also remotely send commands to the browser, for example, to delete browser caches or cookies, and tweak all kinds of settings.

In addition to controlling the browsers, Chrome Enterprise also offers detailed reports on the browser’s deployment and use across your organization. You get the ability to view all versions of Chrome installed in your company, along with all the installed web apps and extensions. It’ll also help you keep track of things such as browser crashes, password reuse and more.

For more advanced security and data protections, you can subscribe to Chrome Enterprise Premium, which costs $6/user/month. This will get you additional controls to enforce policies, detailed security reporting functions, and more.

Chrome Enterprise: Privacy

Google Chrome enterprise browser review

(Image credit: Google)

The biggest advantage with Chrome Enterprise is that it enables centralized browser management. This helps reduce privacy risks by enabling knowledgeable IT admins make informed decisions on behalf of the employees, not all of whom will be well-versed with the dangers lurking on the web.

Chrome Enterprise benefits from Chrome’s malware and phishing protections, and will also prevent users from visiting harmful sites. It’ll also help the IT department keep an eye on the use of extensions and their behavior, for instance, if they are accessing cookies.

Chrome Enterprise also helps cure some of Chrome’s nefarious privacy-invading features. For instance, it’ll help you control your users’ ad privacy settings, and override whether the browser sends usage statistics and crash-related data to Google.

This is especially useful as depending on how it’s configured, the usage stats include details such as memory usage, button clicks, as well as web page URLs and other personal information. Similarly, crash reports contain system information at the time of the crash, and even URLs, and personal information depending on what the user was doing when the crash reporting was activated.

Google Chrome enterprise browser review

(Image credit: Google)

Chrome Enterprise: Ease of use

The management console of Chrome Enterprise Core is fairly intuitive and easy to navigate, which, Google claims, makes it accessible to IT admins of varying technical skill levels. It helps IT define and enforce policies and browser configurations across different operating systems and devices using a point-and-click interface that’s easy on the eyes.

It also helps ease the process of managing a large number of devices, as all browser settings and policies are controlled from a single console.

The cloud-based management console has interactive setup guides that’ll take admins through the entire setup and configuration process. The process to enroll browsers is straightforward and well-documented with detailed OS-specific instructions.

Chrome Enterprise: Competitors

Chrome Enterprise is built around the regular Google Chrome browser, and has all the features you’d expect from a modern desktop and mobile web browser. As an everyday browser, it’s right up there with the best such as Microsoft Edge, Mozilla Firefox, Safari, and their ilk.

The primary competition for Chrome Enterprise Core comes from other enterprise-focused browser management solutions. Different enterprise browsers have different capabilities and go about securing the browser differently.

One of the first enterprise browsers in the market was Island. While Chrome Enterprise takes pride in its management capabilities, especially for large-scale deployments, Island offers fairly detailed reports about how the users are using the web, as well as granular security controls.

Other popular enterprise browsers include the Citrix Enterprise Browser whose USP is its seamless integration with the Citrix Workspace platform. There’s also Microsoft Edge for Business that similarly offers tight integration with Microsoft 365 applications like Outlook, Teams, and OneDrive.

In addition to standalone browsers, you also get products that operate much like browser extensions. They are designed to make regular internet browsers act like enterprise browsers. Solutions like LayerX Enterprise Browser Extension, and Red Access add extra security layers to your existing browser, saving your employees the effort to switch to a completely new browser.

Chrome Enterprise: Final verdict

Chrome Enterprise offers the familiarity of the Chrome web browser along with the centrally managed advantages of an enterprise browser.

You can sign up for Chrome Enterprise Core for $0, which makes it affordable to even the smallest of organizations. Chrome Enterprise is a good option for businesses with mixed device environments, and even more so for those that need to strengthen their BYOD policies.

The product’s central management console is fairly intuitive and well-documented for IT admins, and presents a familiar user experience to end users. Combined with its no-cost tier Chrome Enterprise presents itself as a must-try option for any business looking for an enterprise browser.

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