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I’ve tested laptops for years, and the Alienware 16 Area-51 is easily one of the best gaming laptops ever made
7:00 pm | July 19, 2025

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

Alienware 16 Area-51: Two-minute review

There are only a few gaming laptop releases that’ll impress buyers this year as much as the Alienware 16 Area-51. Everything about this work of premium art and technology oozes perfection.

Though the configuration I reviewed came out to around $3,249.99 / £3,349 / AU$5,497.80, there’s plenty of scalability in terms of both price and component options, with systems starting at $1,999.99 / £2,149.01 / AU$4,198.70.

The design alone places this as one of the best gaming laptops going, thanks to a futuristically sleek design that mirrors its desktop sibling with “fluid contours and soft surfaces” that blends nice angles, lovely multi-zone customizable lighting, smart port placement, clever ventilation, a clear glass panel on the bottom to show of the internals, and much more.

The phenomenal design philosophy is matched with gaming performance that’ll impress enthusiasts and competitive gamers alike. All of that power is pumped out through a 16-inch 2560x1600 display that offers a 240Hz refresh rate as well.

However, holding the display back significantly is the image quality. Despite featuring 100% DCI-P3, 500 nits of brightness, and Nvidia G-Sync, images lack crispness and can come off as smudged a bit as well. Thankfully, the Dolby Atmos-certified speakers provide great, nuanced sound for gaming alongside general music listening.

That doesn’t even count the amount of extras that are featured on the Area-51 16, such as the option to have a full RGB mechanical keyboard, which makes it to where serious players don’t have to use a USB slot and lug an extra keyboard around.

Even outside of gaming, the mechanical keyboard makes general computing tasks a thrill thanks to how fantastic keystrokes feel. In a cool touch, the touchpad itself glows with customizable lighting too.

All of this greatness does come at the cost of borderline abysmal battery life, which comes with the territory of most high-end gaming laptops.

Those in need of more juice for long flights or times without a nearby electrical socket may be in some trouble. Regardless, the Alienware 16 Area-51 is out of this world when it comes to laptop gaming.

Alienware 16 Area-51: Price & availability

An Alienware Area-51 16 laptop on a desk

(Image credit: Future / John Loeffler)

How much does it cost? Starting at $1,999.99 / £2,149.01 / AU$4,198.70

When is it available? Available now

Where can you get it? Available in the US, UK, and Australia

The Alienware 16 Area-51 is now available through Dell’s online store and other digital retailers, starting at $1999.99 / £2,149.01 / AU$4,198.70. Buyers in the US, UK, and Australia can choose from a range of configurations and options tailored to their Windows gaming needs.

My review unit was configured with an Intel Core Ultra 9 275HX, Nvidia GeForce RTX 5080, 32GB RAM, and 1TB SSD Storage comes in at $2,849.99 / £3,298.99 / AU$5,497.80. Other features include the 4K web camera and mechanical keyboard options.

While not the most expensive laptop in its size class, it's not the cheapest either, but its starting price is very good for a laptop with this kind of premium feel.

  • Value: 4 / 5

Alienware 16 Area-51: Specs

An Alienware Area-51 16 laptop on a desk

(Image credit: Future / John Loeffler)

Alienware Area-51 16 (Lowest Configuration)

Alienware Area-51 16 (Review)

Alienware Area-51 16 (Highest Configuration)

Price:

$1,999.99 at Dell.com | £2,149.01 at Dell.com | AU$4,198.70 at Dell.com

$2,849.99 at Dell.com | £3,298.99 at Dell.com | AU$5,497.80 at Dell.com

$5,499.99 at Dell.com | £5,779 at Dell.com | AU$$8,847.30 at Dell.com

CPU:

Intel Core Ultra 7 processor 255HX

Intel Core Ultra 9 processor 275HX

Intel Core Ultra 9 processor 275HX

Graphics:

NVIDIA GeForce RTX 5060

NVIDIA GeForce RTX 5080

NVIDIA GeForce RTX 5090

RAM:

16GB DDR5-6400MT/s

32GB DDR5-6400MT/s

64GB DDR5-6400MT/s

Screen:

16" WQXGA 2560x1600 240Hz 3ms 100% DCI-P3 500 nit, NVIDIA G-SYNC + Advanced Optimus

16" WQXGA 2560x1600 240Hz 3ms 100% DCI-P3 500 nit, NVIDIA G-SYNC + Advanced Optimus

16" WQXGA 2560x1600 240Hz 3ms 100% DCI-P3 500 nit, NVIDIA G-SYNC + Advanced Optimus

Storage:

1TB SSD

1TB SSD

12TB (3 x 4TB) PCIe SSD (4TB PCIe SSD in Australia)

Ports:

1X SD Card Slot, 1 x 3.5mm Headset Jack, 2 x USB Type-A 3.2 Gen 1, 1 x USB Type-A 3.2 Gen 1, 2 x USB-C Thunderbolt 4 ports, 1 x HDMI 2.1

1X SD Card Slot, 1 x 3.5mm Headset Jack, 2 x USB Type-A 3.2 Gen 1, 1 x USB Type-A 3.2 Gen 1, 2 x USB-C Thunderbolt 4 ports, 1 x HDMI 2.1

1X SD Card Slot, 1 x 3.5mm Headset Jack, 2 x USB Type-A 3.2 Gen 1, 1 x USB Type-A 3.2 Gen 1, 2 x USB-C Thunderbolt 4 ports, 1 x HDMI 2.1

Wireless:

Intel Killer Wi-Fi 7 BE1750 (2x2 320Hz) MIMO 802.11be Wireless LAN and Bluetooth 5.4

Intel Killer Wi-Fi 7 BE1750 (2x2 320Hz) MIMO 802.11be Wireless LAN and Bluetooth 5.4

Intel Killer Wi-Fi 7 BE1750 (2x2 320Hz) MIMO 802.11be Wireless LAN and Bluetooth 5.4

Camera:

1080P Webcam

4K Webcam

4K Webcam

Weight:

7.49 lbs | 3.40 kg

7.49 lbs | 3.40 kg

7.49 lbs | 3.40 kg

Dimensions:

14.37 x 11.41 x 1.12 ins | 365 x 290 x 28.5mm (W x D x H)

14.37 x 11.41 x 1.12 ins | 365 x 290 x 28.5mm (W x D x H)

14.37 x 11.41 x 1.12 ins | 365 x 290 x 28.5mm (W x D x H)

Alienware 16 Area-51: Design

An Alienware Area-51 16 laptop on a desk

(Image credit: Future / John Loeffler)
  • Sleek, rounded design with a beautiful liquid teal colorway and RGB lighting nearly everywhere
  • Nice rear port selection and SD Card slot
  • Comfortable experience with the mechanical keyboard

As noted before—and it bears repeating—the Alienware 16 Area-51’s design is truly breathtaking. From the moment you unbox it, the spaceship-inspired curves and sleek, dark liquid teal finish immediately signal a premium, high-end machine that stands out in any setting. While closed, there are some noticeable design choices that truly set this gaming laptop apart from others.

Every angle of the Area-51 16 is picturesque from top to bottom. This includes the top panel featuring the standard Alienware logo that is backlit by customizable RGB.

At the bottom, you get to see the laptop’s Cryo-Chamber structure, allowing direct airflow to the laptop’s core components. This also raises the device for both comfort and larger air intake. For added measure, there’s a clear Gorilla Glass panel showing the AlienFX fans that also has customizable lighting.

A nice selection of ports is located on the rear, which offsets the display hinge by about a few inches. That portion also features a customizable RGB light ring that circles it from top to bottom, too.

This allows access to three USB-A, two USB-C with Thunderbolt, a single HDMI port, and a power port. Those are joined on the left side by an SD Card slot and a 3.5mm headset jack. Smartly designed V-Rail edges make opening and closing the gaming laptop a smooth

An Alienware Area-51 16 laptop on a desk

(Image credit: Future / John Loeffler)

When opened, the display offers either an FHD or a 4K webcam at the top. Below, the mechanical keyboard provides a satisfying feel for both gaming and typing, complete with customizable RGB lighting, and is flanked by a speaker system with two 2W woofers, two 2W tweeters, and Dolby Atmos certification.

The smooth, precision glass touchpad at the bottom also features customizable RGB lighting, adding to the laptop’s premium, tailored experience. Usage is made extra comfortable through a pillowed palm rest, which helps when gaming or when doing general web browsing tasks for long periods.

The Alienware Area-51 16 is just so thoughtful in the engineering and design. There’s a visual appeal and functional enhancements that elevate the ownership experience here in ways that feel luxurious yet cool.

  • Design: 5 / 5

Alienware 16 Area-51: Performance

An Alienware Area-51 16 laptop on a desk

(Image credit: Future / John Loeffler)
  • Incredible power for modern AAA games with high frame rates
  • Can control power output through Alienware Command Center
  • Display performance is awesome though image quality suffers
Alienware 16 Area-51 CPU benchmarks

Benchmark

Score

Geekbench 6.4 Single-core

3,126

Geekbench 6.4 Multi-core

20,498

Crossmark Overall

2,338

Crossmark Productivity

2,173

Crossmark Creativity

2,587

Crossmark Responsiveness

2,145

Gaming and high-end creative task performance match the design perfectly on the Alienware 16 Area-51. The Intel Core Ultra 9, Nvidia RTX 5080, 32GB RAM, and 1TB SSD in my configuration was probably the ideal way to make the most of the 16-inch 2560x1600 resolution display when it comes to configuration options.

I was able to play all the latest, visually arresting AAA games at 60+ frames per second without problems using Cyberpunk 2077, Black Myth: Wukong, Forza Motorsport (2023), Doom: The Dark Ages, and Assassin’s Creed: Shadows.

Alienware 16 Area-51 GPU benchmarks

Benchmarks

Score

3DMark Fire Strike

37,813

3DMark Time Spy

21,070

3DMark Fire Strike Ultra

14,073

3DMark Time Spy Extreme

10,558

3DMark Speed Way

5,613

3DMark Steel Nomad

5,142

3DMark Port Royal

13,966

There are ways to push frame rates even higher thanks to Nvidia’s DLSS upscaling technology. The base configuration option is great for 1080p and 1440p gaming, while the max configuration is good enough for 4K gaming if users plan on connecting to a compatible monitor.

The Area-51 16-inch is powerful enough to edit high-resolution photo and video content without any problems in apps like Adobe Premiere and Photoshop.

Despite pushing the Area-51 16-inch to max capabilities, I didn’t hear much fan noise and it didn’t get too hot, mostly thanks to the Area-51 16-inch's Cryotech cooling and smart vent placement.

Game

Average FPS

Assassin's Creed Shadows (Ultra, 1080p)

52

Black Myth: Wukong (Cinematic, 1080p)

58

Cyberpunk 2077 (Ultra, 1080p)

63

Monster Hunter Wilds (Max, 1080p)

83

Shadow of the Tomb Raider (Very high, 1080p)

183

Total War: Warhammer III (Ultra, 1080p)

201

Like other Alienware devices, the Command Center app is a great way to augment power delivery to focus on a quieter fan speed, focus on battery (though it doesn’t help much), and full-on performance power. Other features of the Command Center include the ability to manage various game settings alongside customizing the various RGB lighting zones around the gaming laptop.

Gaming and the display performance are good enough to make me forget how average-looking the display is when it comes to image quality, suffering from washed-out colors that aren’t very crisp.

  • Performance: 5 / 5

Alienware 16 Area-51: Battery life

  • General computing tasks usage will give around 4 hours of usage between charges
  • Trying to game is only going to provide about two hours

Gaming laptops at this level rarely excel in battery life, and the Alienware 16 Area-51 is no exception. In our PCMark 10 gaming battery test, it lasted around two hours, typical for machines in this category.

More disappointing is its performance in everyday tasks: during our Battery Informant Web Surfing test, it managed just over four hours with power-saving settings like reduced RGB lighting and lower brightness.

With lighting and medium volume levels on, the battery dipped to roughly three hours before needing a recharge. It would be nice to see the power-focused sect of gaming laptops reach the level of the ASUS ROG Zephyrus G14.

On the positive side, the Alienware Battery Defender technology promises to balance power consumption with temperature monitoring to give the battery a longer life.

Charging takes a little over a few hours to reach full battery life, and there isn’t any quick charging. The power adapter brick is also pretty large as well so be mindful when traveling.

  • Battery life: 3 / 5

Should I buy the Alienware 16 Area-51?

An Alienware Area-51 16 laptop on a desk

(Image credit: Future / John Loeffler)

Attributes

Notes

Rating

Value

Gaming laptops are expensive by nature but the lower configuration versions of the Alienware 16 Area-51 do come at an attractive price.

4 / 5

Design

Between the smooth sleek chassis with lovely RGB lighting everywhere, port placements, fan placement and see-through bottom, this is the coolest looking gaming laptop ever made. This is the perfect match of form and function.

5 / 5

Performance

No matter which configuration you choose, you’re getting top-tier components that offer impressive scalability in performance options.

5 / 5

Battery

Battery life is pretty average so users are going to have to make sure they are near some power outlet.

3 / 5

Average rating

Image quality and battery life issues aside, this gaming laptop is worth every penny.

4.25 / 5

Buy the Alienware 16 Area-51 if...

You require one of the best-designed gaming laptops available
The Alienware 16 Area-51 is beautifully designed with a lovely chassis, properly placed ports, and awesome RGB lighting.

You need premium performance
Various configurations for top-of-the-line Intel Core CPUs and Nvidia RTX 50 series GPUs mean a variety of performance options.

You want some good extras
Great sounding speakers and a mechanical keyboard mean that serious gamers don’t have to use a USB port for an external one.

Don't buy it if...

You need better image quality
Though the performance of the 16-inch display is great, colors aren’t crisp and can feel a bit washed out. This means that gamers who are on the creative content side may have some issues.

You want better battery life
Gaming laptops aren’t usually known for their battery life, so expect similar results with the Area-51 16-inch.

Also Consider

If our Alienware Area-51 16 has you considering other options, here are two laptops to consider...

Razer Blade 14 (2024) review

Though it may not have the colorful lighting of the Area-51 16 and loses about two inches of display real estate, the Razer Blade 14 is a powerhouse that’s also portable.

Read the review here

MSI Katana 15

Anyone looking for an ultra-affordable gaming laptop that’s good for 1080p gaming performance should definitely check out the MSI Katana 15.

Read the review here

How I tested the Alienware 16 Area-51

  • Tested the gaming laptop over the course of a week
  • Games tested include Forza Motorsport (2023), Warhammer 40,000: Space Marine II and Doom: The Dark Ages among others
  • General computing tasks include Tidal, Google Chrome and Adobe Suite

During my week with the Alienware 16 Area-51, I spent my time split between work during the day and gaming at night.

During the day, I used Google Chrome for web browsing, Gmail, Docs, and Sheets. Other software used includes Tidal to test speakers and Adobe Suite software like Photoshop, alongside Premiere Pro for creative tasks.

Outside of standard benchmark tests for games like Cyberpunk 2077 and Black Myth: Wukong, I tested out plenty of modern games, including Forza Motorsport (2023), Warhammer 40,000: Space Marine II, and Doom: The Dark Ages. I also managed to handle a few video conferences, which allowed me to test out the webcam as well.

Read more about how we test

  • First reviewed July 2025
CorelDRAW Graphics Suite 2025 review
4:10 pm |

Author: admin | Category: Computers Gadgets Pro Software & Services | Comments: Off

Ever fancy having a collection of software to help you tackle photo editing, page design, and vector illustrations all under one roof? Well that’s what CorelDRAW Graphics Suite 2025 is all about.

It's part graphic design software, part photo editor, and one of the most comprehensive alternatives to Adobe Photoshop around. We tried out the latest version to see how it compares to rivals.

CorelDRAW Graphics Suite 2025: Pricing & plans

CorelDRAW Graphics Suite 2025 during our review

(Image credit: Corel // Future)
  • The Corel suite is cheaper than a lot of the competition, and on top of that, you also have the option of purchasing a licence, if you prefer that over subscribing. The 15-day trial is also welcome

We know it’s been six years since the momentous occasion, but it’s worth mentioning often: after a 20-year absence from the field, Corel finally made its professional apps compatible once more with the Mac in 2019, and version 2025 is no exception: whether you own a Windows or Mac computer, you can download this suite and test it out free for 15 days by clicking here.

After the trial is up, you’ll need to open your wallet, although unlike companies like Adobe, Corel offers you a choice: a one-time purchase for $549 / £659, or an annual plan, where you pay $22.42 / £26.58 each month (which means a one-time purchase is roughly equivalent to two years of rental, but without any possibility of upgrades, and the loss of some additional features which we’ll explore below).

This price includes PHOTO-PAINT (a Photoshop equivalent) and DRAW (an Illustrator equivalent). Quickly checking the competition, you’ll find subscribing to those two Adobe apps would cost you around twice as much ($45.98 / £45.96), so right there Corel’s offering is a pretty good deal. But what can you do with the suite?

  • Score: 4/5

CorelDRAW Graphics Suite 2025: The suite

CorelDRAW Graphics Suite 2025 during our review

(Image credit: Corel // Future)
  • 6 apps, but really only 2 major ones, comprise this suite. The online service is a good addition but it’s only for subscribers, and why couldn’t they include ‘Capture’ with the Mac version, or at least reduce the Mac’s price since it doesn’t include all the apps that are part of the Windows suite?

This Graphic Suite comes with a host of creative apps. The main one, the one the suite borrows its name from, is CorelDRAW. This is a vector illustration and page layout program. If you’re familiar with Adobe Illustrator, it’s similar. CorelDRAW comes with PowerTRACE, which is an AI-powered bitmap-to-vector tracing tool, and is a massive time saver (as all good time-saving AI tools should be).

Next is Corel PHOTO-PAINT, which is Corel’s Photoshop equivalent. With it, you can edit images and create pixel-based projects. Corel Font Manager is an alternative to your computer’s default font management tool which we found fun and easy to use, and also gives you direct access to over 1,000 Google fonts.

CorelDRAW Web, is a browser-based service that lets you create projects online, wherever you may be. There is one drawback to it, mind: it’s only available to customers who subscribe to the suite. Those who opted to purchase their licence are sadly out of that loop.

And finally, there’s Capture, a screen capture tool which is sadly Windows only. Even though Mac users pay the same price for the suite, they end up with 5/6th of what Windows users get. Be that as it way, we’ll take a brief look at the two main apps, PHOTO-PAINT and DRAW.

The integration between all apps in the suite allows for the sharing of numerous features, including Pantone Dualities, which bring powerful colour management between all apps in the suite, designers and printers, through industry recognised palettes.

  • Score: 4/5

CorelDRAW Graphics Suite 2025: Corel PHOTO-PAINT

CorelDRAW Graphics Suite 2025 during our review

(Image credit: Corel // Future)
  • We found this image compositing program to be very competent, with tools similar to its competition, even if its way of working is different and will necessitate a bit of a learning curve if you’re used to the way other apps do things

One of the two main apps of this suite is PHOTO-PAINT, which is designed to be as welcoming as it can be. OK, you must sign in (or create an account) before you can use it, but once you’re in, you’ll be greeted with a welcome page offering you numerous online tutorials to help you understand which features are available and how you can make use of them.

Even when you open a file, you’ll find a ‘Learn’ sidebar on the right to guide you through any creative process, but if you don’t need this, just close it to get on with your work.

If you’re familiar with other image compositing tools, it won’t take you long to acquaint yourself with PHOTO-PAINT as the concept is pretty much the same: you have tools in a sidebar on one side, with an inspector sidebar on the other, and contextual parameters above.

You’re offered a range of tools to retouch or enhance an image, and of course create one from scratch. If you’re used to Photoshop or other tools that borrow easily from that program’s interface, you will quickly feel comfortable in PHOTO-PAINT, although there are enough differences to impose a learning curve on you. Still, for most of the basics, you’ll find yourself up and running in no time. All the tools you’d expect are there, from drawing and painting, to selecting, colour correction, filters and effects.

We did find it taxed our computer’s CPU the longer we experimented with it though, forcing us to quickly relaunch the program to resolve the issue - something we haven’t encountered with other image compositing software. Still, it could be because we were using an oldish Mac (a 2019 Intel Core i9 MacBook Pro with 64GB of RAM), but we thought it worth mentioning nonetheless.

  • Score: 4/5

CorelDRAW Graphics Suite 2025: CorelDRAW

CorelDRAW Graphics Suite 2025 during our review

(Image credit: Corel // Future)
  • CoreDRAW is an impressive vector-based drawing package with powerful tools, which seamlessly combine bitmap drawings and photos with resolution independent vectors

When you launch CorelDRAW, you’ll be graced with a very similar welcome page to PHOTO-PAINT, along with tutorials and a ‘Learn’ section when you’re in the app proper. This family resemblance extends to file formats, as CorelDRAW can open PHOTO-PAINT documents. The reverse is not as seamless, as the DRAW files need to be converted; DRAW can handle bitmap content just as well as vector ones in its files.

CorelDRAW is a program designed to work with vectors, essentially resolution independent art, represented by mathematical equations. You have at your disposal powerful tools and brushes to design complex artwork which will look sharp and crisp at any resolution. Perhaps the most impressive tool we explored is PowerTRACE, which is fully embedded within CorelDRAW itself.

Its purpose is to convert a bitmap image (i.e. any photo, or any drawing created in PHOTO-PAINT, Photoshop or similar), into a vector equivalent. Depending on your image’s complexity and your computer’s power, it may take a few seconds for the action to complete, but we were highly impressed by the results. We chose particularly complex images, and the output was truly excellent.

Other impressive tools are the Painterly brushes, which allow you to replicate realistic brush strokes inside CorelDRAW: it’s a pixel-based brush tool that’s controlled by vector curves, combining the best of both worlds when it comes to design and illustration. This means you get great detail and effects, which are easily scalable with zero resolution issues. CorelDRAW comes with hundreds of preset brushes but if you feel the urge to own more, there's an online store which you can access via the Welcome screen, where you can purchase additional packs. Also, as yet another incentive to get you to subscribe rather than buy, you’re given a further 100.

A further bonus for subscribers is CorelDRAW Web, which allows you to perform quick edits to projects directly from a compatible web browser, from any machine. You can upload existing work and carry on with this online, or bring projects you started in the browser to further refine in CorelDRAW itself. It’s a very nice touch, and it’s pretty amazing what you can achieve from within a web browser these days - for those who don’t mind renting their software, that is.

  • Score: 4.5/5

Should I buy CorelDRAW Graphics Suite 2025

CorelDRAW Graphics Suite 2025 during our review

(Image credit: Corel // Future)

Buy it if...

You’re looking for an affordable design suite that allows you to work with bitmap pixel-based images, and vectors, work online when you need to, gain access to Google fonts, and even record your screen (PCs only)

Don't buy it if...

All you want is to draw a little and don’t wish to feel overwhelmed with a powerful set of tools with far too many features, and you don’t like that those who buy get fewer features compared to those who subscribe.

I test audio kit every day and these bookshelf speakers are the dragon I’ll be chasing for decades to come
1:00 pm |

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

Sonus Faber Concertino G4: Two-minute review

The Sonus Faber Concertino G4 are a very posh set of passive bookshelf speakers. That poshness isn’t just imbued by the colour palette and material choices that define their physical form, even though they do help a bit. Nor is that poshness fully explained by the not-inconsiderable $5,000 / £4,625 / AU$9,495 price point, though, again, that cost does its own fair share of heavy lifting on that front.

The poshness of these posh speakers comes, in my opinion, from Sonus Faber’s dedication to detail. So much attention has been paid to the design, construction, and resulting sound of these speakers, creating an experience arguably greater than the sum of its parts.

On the sound front, these speakers sound unsurprisingly excellent. The two-way design provides for both rich, detailed bass and generous, airy high-end – balanced to the point of tasteful sweetness. There’s a real tactility to the sound produced by the Sonus Faber Concertino G4, as if you could reach behind each instrument or sound source and cup it in your hands. This incredible, three-dimensional resolution is caveated by some serious directionality, but having to sit before your speakers for optimal results is neither a problem, nor anything new.

Visually, it’s hard to beat those walnut sides – but the vegan Ohoskin leather cladding gives it a good old college try. The brass accents consummate the executive nature of these speakers’ design, and the high attention to detail paid in their execution. If you’ve the figurative brass to spare, and are willing to buy more than a great pair of speakers, here’s where to start looking. Among the best stereo speakers money can buy? Absolutely.

Sonus Faber Concertino G4 bookshelf speakers on a wooden table

(Image credit: Future / James Grimshaw)

Sonus Faber Concertino G4 review: Price & release date

  • Released September, 2024
  • Priced $5,000 / £4,625 / AU$9,495

The Sonus Faber Concertino G4 are something of a celebration for the Italian brand – specifically, an anniversary. It’s been 30 years since the first Concertinos made it to listening rooms around the world, and Sonus Faber has deigned to mark the occasion with this special revisit to its classic design.

The first 300 pairs of the Concertino G4 are numbered via a unique brass plate on the left cheek, and sold as the Concertino G4 Maestro Edition; the pair reviewed here is number 29. The occasion, the numbering of the first out of the gate, and the brand from which they hail are all overt clues as to the lofty space these audiophile bookshelfs aim to occupy on the market. The other is the price – $5,000 / £4,625 / AU$9,495 per pair, with purpose-designed iron stands coming in at an extra $1,500 / £1,375/ AU$2,875 (approx.).

These are by no means the most expensive speakers you’ll see from Sonus Faber – indeed, they actually sit quite comfortably at the cheaper end of the brand’s (dauntingly broad) price bracket – but they are nonetheless considerably pricy objects d’art. How do you think they hold up?

Sonus Faber Concertino G4 bookshelf speakers on a wooden surface

(Image credit: Future / James Grimshaw)

Sonus Faber Concertino G4 review: Specs

Type

Bookshelf

Active or passive?

Passive

Bi-wirable?

Yes

Woofer

5-inch paper pulp

Tweeter

1-inch silk dome

Impedance

4 ohms

Dimensions

314mm x 214mm x 297 mm

Sonus Faber Concertino G4 review: Features

  • Passive, bi-wirable two-way speakers
  • Unique cork damping
  • Look at ‘em!

The Sonus Faber Concertino G4 are a pair of passive two-way bookshelf speakers, but also probably the most beautiful pair of passive two-way bookshelf speakers I did ever see. I’ll be breaking down the impeccable aesthetic design of these bookshelfs a little later, but for now – quelle finesse!

Being a passive set of hi-fi speakers, the Concertino G4 are fundamentally uncomplicated and untroubled by the shoehorning-in of needless techy fripperies. However, there are some very nifty goings-on within, that make for a sound as phenomenal as the look. More specifically, the Concertino G4 utilize some precision-modeled cork damping material inside, which does a remarkable job of reducing internal resonances (and, I like to think, contributes a certain ‘springiness’ to the resulting sound of these excellent speakers).

This cork damping is paired, for the first time in Sonus Faber’s history, with a mid-woofer – a 5-inch paper-pulp, long-throw mid-woofer that goes some way to defining the brand’s sonic signature. Couple this with a 1-inch silk-dome tweeter, and you have a stunningly broad, stunningly rich set of living room listeners.

The speakers are, of course, bi-wirable; what else would you expect from a two-way speaker at this price? This writer doesn’t subscribe to the idea that running a bi-wired speaker system results in any tangible sonic improvements whatsoever, but bi-amping is a very different thing entirely – and something the Concertino G4 promise to benefit from all the more.

In the box, you’ll find the speakers, some optional magnetically attachable grille cloth covers, and, if you’re lucky enough to get a double-digit Maestro Edition, one of 100 hand-printed artworks – a copy of an etching, illustrating the Concertino G4’s unique internal damping, delivered in an embossed manila envelope. As far as ‘box candy’ is concerned, this is an excellent little gift, especially for the monumental shame that such downright cool designs are permanently, necessarily hidden from view.

Magnetic cover grille of the Sonus Faber Concertino G4 bookshelf speakers

(Image credit: Future / James Grimshaw)
  • Features score: 4.5/5

Sonus Faber Concertino G4 review: Sound quality

  • Exceptional dimensionality
  • Sonorous low-end
  • Generous, airy high-end

Holy hell.

Being a writer of variable income (that is, varying somewhere between 'ramen noodles every night' and 'slightly posher ramen noodles every night'), I tend to champion the cheaper stuff over anything. Particularly so when returns diminish starkly after a certain price cut-off, and especially where it’s obvious that a premium brand is cashing in on its perceived pedigree as opposed to offering anything of serious value.

As such, it’s rare for me to recognize anything asking upwards of $2000 as 'worth it'. But the Concertino G4 are exceedingly hard to turn down, simply for the rapturous quality of sound they dare to bring into my humble living room.

I use ‘three-dimensional’ a lot as a term when describing the structure and texture of a given device’s auditory performance, and am forced to again here – but in full acknowledgement that this is about as three-dimensional as any bookshelfs can be. The platonic ideal. The dragon I’ll be chasing for decades to come.

Rich(ard) Dawson’s End of the Middle is a record rich (geddit?) in raw percussive instrumentation, blooming low-tuned guitars and alternately plain-spoken/high-falsetto’d art-folk tales of the unexpected. Through the Concertino G4s, Dawson’s heartbreaking windows into the banal (played from a 12-inch on my Victrola Stream Sapphire) are rendered with stunning richness and clarity.

Aptly for the Sonus Faber name, these are sonorous speakers. The low-end is unbelievably rich and structured; it’s rare to feel like you can reach behind the bass strings and grasp the thick air in their wake. Dawson’s voice is rich [that's enough now – Ed.], complex, and fully present – his fricatives feel as if formed in the room.

High-end information is rendered generously. There’s a sense that all higher elements sit plushly within a cushion of air, presenting themselves forth for scrutiny without force or strain – the same force and strain that, in my self-invented mythos of sound, causes tinniness, cloy or otherwise intolerable screech from lesser sources.

Close up of a Sonus Faber Concertino G4 bookshelf speaker, on a wooden surface

(Image credit: Future / James Grimshaw)

The balance of sound is hugely directional. If you, like me, place these facing across a room as opposed to down it, you’re likely to find patches of especial untamed bass-i-ness. Unsurprisingly enough, if you situate yourself where Sonus Faber’s manual actually instructs you to – that is, dead in front, with the speakers facing you, as one point of an audiophile equilateral triangle – the fruits of the Concertinos’ labor make the sense they’re supposed to make.

Dirty Projectors’ Swing Lo Magellan, also listened to on vinyl, is every bit as immediate as your mind’s ear interprets it. It might be a bit dross to fall on the word ‘musical’ to describe the Concertino G4 here, but here we go nonetheless – the subby kicks of opener Offspring Are Blank are discrete, weighted and musical, a far cry from the placeless wub lesser speakers would offer up as alternative.

As Offspring…’s pre-chorus opens out with twanging guitars, there’s a spring in the step – a delightful bounce emphasized by the rubbery drums and densely sponged short-scale bass of ensuing track About To Die. Percussion throughout the album is supple and giving despite its forefront presence, and David Longstreth’s dry, dead-center vocals are a floaty, reedy delight. My album favourite, The Socialites, has a weight and focus I’ve not heard elsewhere. It's a unique joy.

Speaking of which, the Concertino G4 has no issue bringing that same weight and focus to famously less-focused records, like My Bloody Valentine’s Loveless. Kevin Shields’ stacked soundscapes throb and thrum with excitable energy throughout, while the dead, motorik drums at the center of When You Sleep punch out from behind as if pummeled by a hammer. Side B loud-lullaby Sometimes is a glorious bath of multi-tracked guitars and rabbit-heartbeat kicks, distinct in its indistinctness and clear in its complete lack of conventional clarity. A beautiful paradox delivered through these speakers.

The word I keep returning to with these speakers is ‘generous’. There’s space in and around everything tackled, from distant roomy drums to attention-begging upfront vocals – space enough you genuinely feel as if you could cup each element in your hands, or awkwardly reach around them to grab something. Aside from their clear preference for head-on listening (which is, assuredly, of necessity and by design), these speakers are functionally faultless.

  • Sound quality score: 5/5

Sonus Faber Concertino G4 bookshelf speakers on a wooden surface

(Image credit: Future / James Grimshaw)

Sonus Faber Concertino G4 review: Design

  • Executive walnut and brass build
  • Delicious vegan leather cladding
  • Nifty magnetically attachable clothe grille covers

Design-wise, it’s hard to know where to start with the Concertino G4s because of Sonus Faber’s trademark meticulousness. Each speaker is a work of art, exuding craftsmanship from every angle. They benefit from beautifully shaped walnut cheeks, with an outward crease that runs from bottom to top, front to rear, and bisect the trapezoidal shape of the whole thing in a very pleasing manner.

New here is the involvement of Ohoskin, an Italian manufacturer of high-quality leather alternatives. This bio-based leather material (made from orange and cactus byproducts) is eco-conscious, sure, but also a stunning ‘pleather’ that clads the top and front of the chassis. It certainly could’ve fooled me.

Between this sleek black not-actually-leather and the solid walnut cheeks, these are a distinctly executive set of audiophile speakers, enhanced further by the mirror-polished brass that forms its front logo panels, rear terminal plates and side-mounted issue number placards. Even the studs holding those walnut cheeks in place are highly reflective, monogrammed indications of attention to detail.

That same attention to detail gifts us sleekness elsewhere. Sonus Faber supplies you with a pair of lightweight cloth grille covers, which you may optionally attach to the front of the Concertino G4 by way of some concealed magnets beneath the pleather.

Now, I think these speakers look far better in their uncovered glory, both for generally preferring uncovered hi-fi speakers and for having my own aesthetic misgivings around the covers' design. Still, the option is a nice one to have, and well-executed besides – from the completely invisible magnets to the soft felt material covering the ‘feet’ on the covers themselves.

  • Design score: 5/5

Closeup of the tweeter of the Sonus Faber Concertino G4 bookshelf speakers

(Image credit: Future / James Grimshaw)

Sonus Faber Concertino G4 review: Value

  • Commands a considerable price
  • But represents more than just ‘good sound’
  • Clearly made with skill, reverence and love

When buying the Sonus Faber Concertino G4, you’re actually buying at least two things, not one. Yes, one of them is an excellent-sounding pair of bookshelf speakers, but you’re also buying an immaculately designed, reverently constructed pair of artworks for your living space. On top of that, if you buy the Maestro Edition, you’re also buying a secret third thing – a limited-edition set, made all the more valuable for its combination of rarity and pedigree. It is with this in mind that I suggest, humbly, that value is difficult to ascribe to this set of speakers.

I’ve heard dozens upon dozens of bookshelf speakers below £1,000 – and even owned a fair few second-hand speakers bought for below £100 – that display similarly remarkable attention to detail in the audio realm, even if their chassis leave a little to be desired. Yet all fall short, however marginally, of the dimensionality on display here. Buying the Concertino G4 for performance alone could be justifiable, yes, but only if you’re willing to throw an extra £3,500 at the extra 5-10% that elevates these speakers above their upper mid-range contemporaries.

Don’t get me wrong, I love the Concertino G4s. It’s a rare pair of speakers that can so convincingly render voices and instruments in discrete three-dimensional space, and nothing short of magic to hear the care with which such sound sources are treated. But you can find this for less. What you can’t is the Italian-made, executive-saloon suavity of the Concertino’s form, or the combination of this hand-built reverence with such deferent approaches to audiophilia.

So, while I might not be currently tempted to sell my belongings in favor of owning the Sonus Faber Concertino G4, I do know that, with the right capital and in the right atmospheric conditions, I’d snap them up in a heartbeat. Not just for their impeccable sound, but for the space they command, and for what that command represents.

Rear wiring options of the Sonus Faber Concertino G4 bookshelf speakers

(Image credit: Future / James Grimshaw)
  • Value score: 4.5/5

Sonus Faber Concertino G4 review: scorecard

Comment

Rating

Features

Passive, bi-wirable bookshelf speakers; smart internal cork damping.

4.5/5

Sound quality

Massive depth, clarity and three-dimensionality; careful handling of high-end, weighty low-end.

5/5

Design

A masterclass in executive chic. Cloth grille covers aren’t to everyone's taste.

5/5

Value

Pricy, but it buys you a work of practical art, made with reverence.

4.5/5

Should you buy the Sonus Faber Concertino G4?

Buy them if...

You have the cash
The price point is a lot to ask from most people, even if it’s far closer to the floor than the ceiling when it comes to the cost of audiophile-grade hi-fi equipment. That said, these walk the walk – and provide more than sound for the money.

You have a dedicated listening spot
The Sonus Faber Concertino G4 are designed to be listened head-on, like studio monitor speakers. These should be enjoyed as such, then – in a room where they straddle your hi-fi and point directly at your head.

Don't buy them if...

You want a daily driver set of bookshelfs
Sure, the Concertino G4 will serve you marvellously well whatever you deign to throw at them, but buying them for watching Countdown and listening to BBC Radio 4 would be a bit like ordering a Michelin Guide dish on Uber Eats. And scarfing it down while watching Countdown or listening to BBC Radio 4.

You don’t have a dedicated hi-fi spot
You don’t need telling that these speakers want to see the output from an integrated amplifier or broader hi-fi system. You might, though, need telling that these speakers demand their own dedicated space and placement to sound their best.

Also consider

Sonus Faber Concertino G4

Monitor Audio Studio 89

Sonus Faber Lumina II

Type

Bookshelf

Bookshelf

Bookshelf

Active or passive?

Passive

Passive

Passive

Bi-wirable?

Yes

No

Yes

Woofer

5-inch paper pulp

x2 4.5-inch RDT III

150mm paper pulp

Tweeter

1-inch silk dome

x1 MPD III

29mm silk diaphragm

Impedance

4 ohms

6 ohms

4ohms

Dimensions

314 x 214 x 297 mm

340 x 157 x 361 mm

304 x 180 x 263mm

Monitor Audio Studio 89
Another set of passive bookshelf speakers, they incorporate two RDT III mid/bass drivers and a sandwiched MPD III tweeter, arranged vertically for wider sound dispersion.
See our full Monitor Audio Studio 89 review

Sonus Faber Lumina II
If you want that same Sonus Faber experience without having to worry about a potential remortgage, you can achieve just that with these excellent, ‘budget’ offerings from the Italian artisans. There are shortcomings (including a leather finish that may offend), but does a great job of bringing audiophile quality down a price peg.
See our full Sonus Faber Lumina II review

How I tested the Sonus Faber Concertino G4

  • Tested for four weeks
  • Used in my living room, as my primary listening speakers
  • Tested using a Victrola Stream Sapphire and Cambridge Audio receiver

As someone with considerable personal and professional investment both in the enjoyment of music and in its production, I have unique experience on both sides of the equation. I engage with speakers of various types as a matter of course each day, from flat-response studio monitor speakers to gorgeous, flattering hi-fi numbers like these.

For four glorious weeks, the Sonus Faber Concertino G4 speakers were my primary listening speakers in my living room. I wired them into my Cambridge Audio Azur 540r receiver, which received the sound of my vinyl record collection via a Victrola Stream Sapphire turntable (outfitted with an Ortofon 2M Blue cartridge).

First reviewed: July 2025

Read more about how we test at TechRadar

Tamagotchi Plaza is hands down the worst Nintendo Switch 2 title yet
7:27 pm | July 18, 2025

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

There are no reasons to consider picking up a copy of Tamagotchi Plaza, especially if you just got your hands on a Nintendo Switch 2.

Review info

Platform reviewed: Nintendo Switch 2
Available on:
Nintendo Switch 2, Nintendo Switch
Release date:
June 27, 2025

It’s a basic collection of boring, uninspired minigames that all ultimately just boil down to hitting the same few buttons for minutes at a time. This is paired with a laughably tiny hub world, that’s conspicuously devoid of activities and an absolute nightmare to customize or upgrade.

It all feels like something that you would find in a free mobile phone game, not a $49.99 / £44.99 release for a brand new console.

Sure, the serviceable graphics and abundance of Tamagotchi characters might prove enough to entertain a very small child for an hour or two, but with games like Mario Kart World and recent Donkey Kong Bananza on the scene there’s no real reason not to spend your time and money more wisely and go for one of them instead.

Again and again

A minigame in Tamagotchi Plaza.

(Image credit: Bandai Namco)

A spiritual successor to the Tamagotchi Connection: Corner Shop series on Nintendo DS, Tamagotchi Plaza is ostensibly about helping out in the various shops of a cute Tamagotchi town. This is accomplished through the completion of short minigames, of which there are 12 - one for each shop.

The first thing that you’ll notice is that none of them feature tutorials. You’re just expected to work out what you’re meant to do from the get-go, though this omission isn’t much of an impediment given just how simple the minigames are.

The first I tried involves cooking galettes (the flat, French pastry) by looking at an image of a customer’s desired order and mindlessly hitting buttons to bake the crust and fill it with the desired ingredients.

Accompanied by annoying sound effects which I later found can, mercifully, be turned off in the settings menu and protracted, overly slow animations, it becomes stale almost instantly.

The others are all a similar story: helping out in the personal gym, for example, involves spamming the shoulder buttons at a set pace, while the afternoon tea shop is simply dragging and dropping a few items on a table.

A minigame in Tamagotchi Plaza.

(Image credit: Bandai Namco)

The only one that I find remotely entertaining was the dentist minigame, which has you drilling Tamagotchi teeth to weed out creepy little critters causing decay and even this just involved selecting options from a menu and hitting a button.

On the other end of the spectrum is the manga shop minigame, which is just nonsensical. You’re meant to design manga panels by dragging and dropping a few pre-made assets into position, but the scoring, measured on a scale of zero to three stars, doesn’t seem to correlate to anything other than how many characters you manage to cram on the screen.

If you keep grinding a particular minigame enough, you’re eventually offered the chance to upgrade it. This introduces some new options, which does break up the monotony somewhat, but takes quite a long time to appear and isn’t substantial enough to justify the effort.

Switch it up

A minigame in Tamagotchi Plaza.

(Image credit: Bandai Namco)

There are three additional minigames exclusive to the Nintendo Switch 2 version of the game too. They’re unlocked after you’ve spent some time in the initial 12 and utilize the Joy-Con 2 mouse control features. These are the strongest of the bunch, with the likes of the shuriken shop which has you using the Joy-Con 2 to aim ninja stars providing a few minutes of fun.

Unfortunately, it’s not enough to redeem the overall package and is nowhere near as interesting as some of the neat hardware tricks found in software like Nintendo Switch 2 Welcome Tour.

Best bit

Tamagotchi Plaza.

(Image credit: Bandai Namco)

There are more than 100 Tamagotchi characters here, with unique models and even the odd bit of dialogue.

Outside of minigames, there’s a small hub area to explore. Aside from the occasional conversation with another Tamagotchi, it’s empty and bland. You can upgrade it using currency earned from minigames, but progress is painfully slow and adding a few trees or the odd square here and there just isn’t worth the effort.

There’s also some light story content, centred around the protagonist being recruited to help improve the town so that it’s selected as the site of the Tamagotchi festival, but it’s basic and spread incredibly thin.

At the very least, I can say that Tamagotchi Plaza has no shortage of characters. There are more than a hundred Tamagotchis to discover, all with unique models that look quite nice. I just wish that this same amount of effort was put into literally every other facet of the game too.

Should I play Tamagotchi Plaza?

Play it if…

You find it super cheap
Tamagotchi Plaza might be worth buying if you find it at a heavy discount. The time spent trying each of the minigames a few times could justify a few bucks if you’re shopping for a child.

Don’t play it if…

You’re more than four years old
There’s no way that anything in Tamagotchi Plaza could entertain anyone over the age of about four. If you’re able to read this, I would recommend giving it a miss.

Accessibility

There are no accessibility features in Tamagotchi Plaza. In fact, there’s barely a settings menu at all. You can adjust the game’s volume (with separate settings for music, sound, and voices) and change the direction of the camera controls, but that’s it.

How I reviewed Tamagotchi Plaza

I subjected myself to more than four hours of Tamagotchi Plaza on Nintendo Switch 2, which is roughly four hours more than any reasonable person would play it for.

I tried every minigame in the package, and spent some time exploring the tiny world. I carefully evaluated the amount of fun that I was having at every juncture and compared my experience to my testing of other Nintendo Switch 2 games like Donkey Kong Bananza and Mario Kart World.

First reviewed July 2025

I reviewed Humanscale’s Float Micro – and this designer micro-desk will transform just about any space into a workspace
5:57 pm |

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

The Humanscale Float Micro is the smallest Humanscale desk, offering a beautiful and straightforward workspace for a laptop or notebook, but not much more. It's a minimalist side table that can easily slide over a couch, making it an excellent solution for short working sessions, but not a fantastic option for a dedicated workspace. While this is a premium piece in every way, the functionality is nice.

The mechanics are smooth, the materials are incredibly high quality, and the design is quite aesthetically pleasing. Suppose you're looking for a multi-functional end table that can transform your living space, reading nook, family room, or other area into a compact workspace in a pinch, or for some light work on vacation. In that case, this desk is a spectacular way to do it -- just know there's a price that comes with such a design and company.

Humanscale is a company I have been familiar with for a while, and it has always been associated with luxury in my mind. I am hoping to see more of their gear in person in the future, but for now, the Humanscale Float Micro is an excellent introduction to who they are and what they do.

This is the smallest desk I have ever seen as an independent product. I have seen smaller workspaces, such as the seat-back table on an airplane, but I have never seen one this small as a standalone item. Nevertheless, this is still more expensive than most desks on the list of best standing desks. This communicates that Humanscale is a high-end, luxury brand. Some companies can afford to have a hefty price tag, and from what I can see so far, Humanscale is one of those companies. Their materials are phenomenal, the build quality is spectacular, the functionality is superb, and the design is beautiful.

Humanscale | Float Micro

(Image credit: Collin Probst // Future )

Humanscale Float Micro: Pricing and Availability

The Humanscale Float Micro has models available for around $765, but some models and specifications are currently being sold for $ 1,300. These desks ship directly from Humanscale and offer a variety of accessories, including locking casters, as options. There are several colorways and a couple of material options to choose from, all of which affect the pricing of the Float Micro.

Humanscale | Float Micro

(Image credit: Collin Probst // Future )

Humanscale Float Micro: Unboxing & first impressions

The Humanscale Float Micro had the most straightforward assembly process of any product I have ever received. And I am being genuinely honest about that. It arrived fully assembled, and all I had to do was cut the box open, pull out the desk, and start adjusting the size to what I wanted.

From the first moment I touched the desk, I realized the materials were premium and of high quality. I even noticed, without seeing the price tag, that this desk was going to be a more premium offering due to its materials and design language.

I understand that some homes, offices, and areas may not be able to accommodate a dedicated workspace, and while I genuinely enjoy building out workspaces, some people are not in a position to have one. That's where something like this comes along. It transforms any space into a spot to get some work done on your laptop in no time at all, and with minimal effort.

Humanscale Float Micro: Design & Build Quality

Humanscale | Float Micro

(Image credit: Collin Probst // Future )
Specs

Height range: 23″–41″
Footprint: 80″ × 80″, 27.5″ deep wings
Weight capacity: 12 lbs
Motors: Pneumatic Cylinder

As I mentioned earlier, the build quality of this desk is exquisite. The height adjustment, while not electric, is spring-assisted and incredibly smooth. I understand that they would not want to add an electric function to this desk, as it would require stepping back in terms of simplicity and ease of use by introducing the need for power input. However, at the same time, it would be nice.

Instead, the desk utilizes a pneumatic lifting system, which is still nearly instantaneous and is much easier to maintain, as well as more manageable to work with.

The desk's offset design is also an interesting feature. After very brief use, I can tell that it's offset to fit under furniture more easily, making this a great idea yet again for a living space or a multi-purpose area.

Humanscale | Float Micro

(Image credit: Collin Probst // Future )

Humanscale Float Micro: In use

I've used this simple desk in a few areas. I have used it in my living room for exactly what I expect this has been made for, to add a steady workspace for my laptop while I am on the couch. I have also used this in my office as a workspace from a comfy chair in the corner.

I have used this in a more traditional workspace to help with making a desk for a meeting area that did not have enough desks, and I have used it in other odd places as a height-adjustable end table, or desk all without having any issues with the desk itself. The hight range seems to be great, the design fits in anywhere and when adding my laptop I have a great amount of space, making it so I can put my iPad mini, iPhone or something simple on the desktop with me, allowing for functional work.

I even wanted to test this desk a bit, so I took the desk and used it at one of the companies I work with and tried to build out a desk system on it. I mounted power to the underside of the desktop, I added a vertical monitor on a monitor arm, and then an iMac to the main function of the desk, plugging into a docking station that I also mounted under the desktop. Even with this full setup on the desk, I could still fit a mouse, keyboard and had enough wiggle room to still use the mouse appropriately.

Attributes

Notes

Rating

Design

Sleek and minimal

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

Ease of use

Very easy to use

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

Practicality

Practical for some

⭐⭐⭐⭐

Price

Highly priced

⭐⭐⭐⭐

Humanscale Float Micro: Final verdict

The Humanscale Float Micro is a unique desk. It's premium, yet tiny. It's functional yet minimalist. All the while, it's expensive, but clearly premium and it will clearly last. So, if you are looking for a simple desk to add to your living room, co-working space, comfy chair, or in other areas, you should check out the Humanscale Float Micro on Humanscale's website, today.

For more pro essentials, we've reviewed the best office chairs for comfort and ergonomics.

I spent two weeks shooting with the Fujifilm X-E5, and there are solid reasons for its painful price hike
5:47 pm |

Author: admin | Category: Cameras Computers Gadgets Mirrorless Cameras | Tags: , | Comments: Off

Fujifilm X-E5: two-minute review

The Fujifilm X-E5 is a significant leap forward for Fujifilm’s X-E series, elevating it from its budget-friendly beginnings to the loftier heights of the mid-range.

At $1,699 / £1,299 / AU$2,699 body-only it’s significantly pricier than its predecessor. But that hike brings with it some serious upgrades – and not only in the shape of the 40.2MP X-Trans CMOS 5 sensor (which is the same as the one you’ll find in the X100VI).

Design-wise the X-E5 nails the retro look, and with its aluminum top plate and minimalist controls it really feels like a premium product. Compact, handsome and lightweight, it’s ideal for travel and street shooters, and the new Film Simulation dial and customizable front lever give it added control finesse. That said, the camera isn’t weather-sealed and offers limited grip, making it less suited to challenging environments or big lenses.

The viewfinder and touchscreen feel slightly outdated, too. The OLED EVF is small and lacks the crispness I’ve seen on some rivals, while the flip-up screen can be obstructed by accessories in the hot shoe, which could be an annoyance for vloggers and video shooters. That said, I found both to be functional for stills photography.

Fujifilm X-E5 camera

The X-E5 can be purchased in a bundle with this nifty, space-saving 23mm pancake lens. (Image credit: Future | Sam Kieldsen)

The star addition to the feature list is in-body image stabilization (IBIS), appearing for the first time in the X-E line. It’s a game changer for low-light shooting and handheld video, at least compared with the X-E4. The autofocus system has been upgraded too, and now offers subject tracking not only for humans but animals, vehicles and more.

Shooting performance is solid: 20fps burst with electronic shutter (with crop), 13fps uncropped or 8fps with the mechanical shutter. And thanks to the inclusion of 20 of Fuji’s signature Film Simulation modes, it's easy to get incredible-looking shots straight out of the camera. The color science, as with all X-series cameras, is a real strong point.

Video quality is excellent, with 6.2K 30p and 4K 60p 10-bit capture, including access to F-Log profiles for added dynamic range. But there are caveats: the camera tends to overheat with extended video shooting, it lacks a proper headphone jack, and that tilting screen remains an ergonomic obstacle for self-shooters. For me the X-E5 is best thought of as a photography-first tool, with video as a very capable bonus feature.

In short, the Fujifilm X-E5 is a compact and beautifully built mirrorless camera that delivers superb images, reliable autofocus and welcome stabilization. It's not cheap, and it's not perfect (video-first shooters and all-weather adventurers should look elsewhere), but for travel, street and everyday stills photography, it's a delight.

Fujifilm X-E5: price and availability

  • $1,699 / £1,299 / AU$2,699 body-only
  • Significantly pricier than X-E4 was at launch
  • Available in a kit with new XF23mm lens

The Fujifilm X-E5 was launched on June 12 2025, alongside a new pancake lens, the XF23mmF.28 R WR.

Pricing starts at $1,699 / £1,299 / AU$2,699 body-only, or $1,899 / £1,549 / AU$3,049 for a bundle with the lens. Perhaps the most notable thing about the price is how much higher it is than the Fujifilm X-E4’s was at launch: it cost $949 / £799 / AU$1,399 body-only, or $1,049 / £949 / AU$1,799 in a kit with a pancake lens. Yes, that was back in 2021, but this is still a significant increase that far outstrips inflation.

There are various factors that affect pricing, from general inflation to recently introduced tariffs. However, I think the main reason for the bump here is simply that Fujifilm deems the X-E5 is a more premium product than its predecessor – and given the improvements made to features and spec, it’s hard to argue with that.

It’s clear that the X-E5 isn’t the entry-level option the X-E4 was; this is now very much a mid-range option. I think the price reflects that, and I think the lens bundle in particular represents a pretty good deal.

  • Price score 4/5

Fujifilm X-E5: specs

Sensor:

40.2MP X-Trans CMOS 5 HR APS-C

Video:

6.2K 30p, 4K 60p, FHD 240p, 10-bit

Cont. shooting:

Up to 20fps electronic shutter, up to 8fps mechanical shutter

Viewfinder:

2.36m-dot OLED

LCD:

3-inch 1.62m-dot tilting touchscreen

Battery (CIPA rating):

Up to 400 shots or 45 minutes of video capture

Weight:

445g / 15.7oz

Dimensions:

124.9 x 72.9 x 39.1mm / 4.92 x 2.87 x 1.54 inches

Fujifilm X-E5: design and handling

  • Weighs just 535g / 18.9oz with XF23mm lens
  • Not weatherproof
  • Tilting touchscreen and OLED viewfinder

The Fujifilm X-E5 sports similar rangefinder styling to previous models in the series, but with some big advances in design and build quality. As soon as I picked up the camera I realized it felt nothing like a plasticky 'budget' option; it’s solid and hefty, thanks to the new aluminum top plate, while the included braided rope strap looks and feels very modish indeed.

I still found the camera body to be compact and lightweight for a mirrorless model however, and with the new pancake lens attached it makes for a strikingly portable setup that I think would be perfect for street or travel photography. I should say, though, that despite its build-quality improvements this still isn’t a fully weather-sealed camera, so should be used cautiously in rainy conditions. I think that’s a shame, as it somewhat detracts from its travel-friendly nature.

The compact size and flat body shape have an impact on ergonomics, of course; there’s not a great deal to grip onto here bar a small moulded bump at the front and back on the right side. With a small lens attached things feel comfortable enough, but I suspect fitting larger lenses will result in balance and handling challenges. This camera certainly seems designed for use with small primes and short zooms rather than longer, heavier lenses.

Controls-wise, things remain fairly minimalist, particularly on the rear of the camera – that’s always been typical of the X-E series and I think it suits the aesthetic well, and I had few problems accessing settings I wished to change.

There are a couple of notable additions I really enjoyed using: firstly, the Film Simulation dial on the top plate, which displays the current selection through a little circular window and supports up to three custom recipes plus the standard range of Fuji’s film-aping filters.

Second is the lever on the front – a feature borrowed from X100- and X-Pro series cameras. It can be customized to suit the user’s preferences, adding a great deal of additional control to what appears to be a very controls-light camera.

The X-E5’s rear touchscreen and viewfinder feel outdated alongside other recent cameras. The screen, for instance, has a flip-up design rather than full tilt-and-swivel vari-angle, which means it can be blocked by anything mounted on the hot shoe when flipped up to face forward. Got a flash or shotgun mic fitted? You won’t be able to see much of the screen. Other than that, I found it bright, sharp and easy to use.

The OLED viewfinder is small and fairly low-resolution compared with say, the Fujifilm X100VI’s, and its eyepiece does little to block out exterior distractions. That’s not to say it’s not perfectly serviceable – it just seems a little behind the times.

Storage is courtesy of a single SD card slot alongside the battery slot on the bottom of the camera, while physical connections comprise a 3.5mm mic/remote input, a USB-C port for charging, storage and headphone hook-up, and micro HDMI.

  • Design and handling score 4/5

Fujifilm X-E5: features and performance

  • 5-axis sensor-shift IBIS now included
  • Subject-detection autofocus recognizing animals, cars and more
  • Continuous shooting up to 20fps

Perhaps the biggest feature upgrade the X-E5 boasts over its predecessor is five-axis in-body stabilization (IBIS). The X-E4 had no internal mechanism to counter camera shake, so IBIS is a significant boost to its capabilities.

The sensor-shifting mechanism adds up to seven stops of compensation according to Fujifilm, and I found it very useful for slower shutter speed photos (i.e., in low-light conditions) and handheld video capture. It would have been nice to have some longer lenses to test with it, but I have no complaints about its effectiveness with the 24mm pancake.

As well as the sensor-shift tech, users also have the option to use two further digital stabilization modes for video capture, which apply a successive crop to the image.

Continuous shooting has been slowed down slightly from the X-E4, albeit only in electronic shutter mode, and perhaps as a result of the X-E5’s higher sensor resolution, it can’t match the X-E4’s 30fps maximum speed. It can now shoot at up to 20fps in this mode (which applies a 1.29x crop to the image), at up to 13fps electronically with no crop, or at up to 8fps with the mechanical shutter (also uncropped). That’s perfectly respectable in my book, particularly as those speeds are now paired with a much improved autofocus setup.

The X-E4 had human face and eye detection and tracking, but the X-E5 adds subject detection for animals, birds, cars, motorcycles, bikes, airplanes and trains. In testing I found that it reliably tracked moving subjects across the frame, and as they moved towards or away from the camera or in and out of view. It might not quite match the speed and laser-like accuracy of the systems on the latest high-end Canon, Sony or Nikon cameras, but it’s a good, dependable setup.

Battery life doesn’t look particularly impressive on paper, with the X-E5 having a CIPA rating of 400 shots or just 45 minutes of video recording on a full charge. But in practice (shooting mainly photos) I found it felt fairly generous, and rarely had to recharge the camera during my time with it.

Perhaps yet more evidence that this is a photography-first camera is that it has a tendency to overheat and shut down when used to shoot longer video clips. I set the video quality to 4K 60fps and found that the X-E5 only managed to record 14.5 minutes before turning itself off to cool down.

  • Features and performance score: 4/5

Fujifilm X-E5: image and video quality

  • 40.2MP X-Trans CMOS 5 APS-C sensor
  • 4:2:2 10-bit video up to 6.2K and 14-bit RAW photo capture
  • 20 customizable Film Simulation modes

The X-E5 is built around a 40.2MP APS-C sensor that represents a fairly large resolution jump over the X-E4’s 26MP sensor. It’s the same sensor as you’ll find in the highly coveted Fujifilm X100VI compact, but instead of that camera's fixed lens you can use any piece of X-mount glass you like.

As well as its 40.2MP stills (which can be captured in JPEG or 14-bit raw), the X-E5 can capture video at up to 6.2K 30fps or 4K 60fps 4:2:2 10-bit quality, plus Full HD at up to 240fps for slow-motion playback.

I’m hugely impressed with the X-E5’s photography performance. As mentioned above, it comes with a selection of film simulation modes (20 in all), allowing users to instantly give their images a style and aesthetic reminiscent of analog film types.

My personal favorite, going back to my time using the Fujifilm X-Pro 2 almost a decade ago, has always been Classic Chrome, and I found myself defaulting to it as my go-to setting for standard shots. But there are plenty of other interesting Film Simulations that I enjoyed testing too, like the desaturated Eterna Bleach Bypass and the ultra-punchy monochrome Acros, which can be set with yellow, red, or green filters to further enhance its look.

There are plenty of options in the menus for adjusting these Simulation recipes in order to find results you like, or you can of course just shoot in raw and process the images yourself in Lightroom or similar. I also tried this, and found the huge raw files provided superb platforms for heavy image adjustments and corrections. Whether you want a camera that produces excellent point-and-shoot results or gives you the basis for heavy editing, the X-E5 fits the bill.

Video quality is also excellent, and offers videographers the same selection of Film Simulation modes as well as F-Log and F-Log2, two flat profiles that work as a solid base for color grading and correction in post-production. It also supports bit rates of up to 200Mbps. There are several reasons why the X-E5 isn’t ideal for video (the lack of a 3.5mm headphone socket, the tilting screen being blocked by anything on the hotshoe, the tendency to overheat), but actual image quality isn’t one.

  • Image and video quality score: 4.5/5

Fujifilm X-E5 camera on wooden shelf surrounded by ornaments

(Image credit: Future | Sam Kieldsen)

Fujifilm X100VI: Test scorecard

Fujifilm X100VI

Attributes

Notes

Rating

Price

A big price bump over the X-E4, but given the improvements it feels warranted.

4 / 5

Design

Stylish and compact, with more metal than previous X-E models – but not weatherproof.

4 / 5

Feature and performance

Image stabilization and autofocus are excellent, even if other aspects are a little more average.

4 / 5

Image quality

A superb sensor and winning color science deliver superb images straight out of the camera.

4.5 / 5

Should I buy the Fujifilm X-E5?

Fujifilm X-E5 camera

(Image credit: Future | Sam Kieldsen)

Buy it if...

You want a chic, ultra-compact mirrorless camera
The X-E5 is small, lightweight and handsome – and its X-mount means it can be used with lots of excellent lenses, so it’s more versatile than most premium compact cameras.

You primarily shoot with small or lightweight lenses
Balance-wise, the X-E5’s body is more suited to small primes and zooms than larger, heavier lenses. If you’re a sports or wildlife photographer, you may find the handling unwieldy with those longer lenses.

You adore Fujifilm’s color science
Fujifilm’s Film Simulation modes are color magic, and the X-E5’s nifty selection dial makes them easier to choose (and use) than on any other Fujifilm camera to date.

Don't buy it if...

You’re primarily a video shooter
While video quality is excellent, the X-E5’s design imposes some limitations on videographers that may cause frustration. It’s fine for the odd clip, but making a film on it would be a struggle.

You need to shoot in all conditions
The lack of weather sealing is a concern here, particularly for those buying the X-E5 as a travel camera. It’s a pity it can’t be used in rain showers or in dusty desert conditions.

You're seeking a cheap entry-level camera
The X-E4 was relatively inexpensive, but the X-E5 feels like a mid-range model and comes with a price tag to match. Cheap it most certainly isn’t.

Fujifilm X100VI: Also consider

Fujifilm X-E5 on a wooden bench, with the XF 23mm f/2.8 lens removed and propped up against the camera

(Image credit: Future / Tim Coleman)

If our Fujifilm X-E5 review has inspired you to think about other options, here are two other cameras to consider…

Fujifilm X100VI
The X100VI is one of the most desirable compact cameras around, and it’s based on the same processor as the X-E5, but has a fixed lens. The X100VI may be a little less versatile as a result, but its 23mm f/2 lens, LED flash and better screen and viewfinder definitely make it worth a look.

Read our in-depth Fujifilm X100VI review

Nikon Zf
Oozing retro charm, the Zf is available at a similar price to the X-E5 but comes with flagship-level stabilization, burst speeds, autofocus and more, with a raft of new features recently being added via firmware update. It’s also got a full-frame sensor, with all the advantages that brings.

Read our in-depth Nikon Zf review

How I tested the Fujifilm X-E5

  • I used the camera and new XF23mm f/2.8 lens over two-week period
  • I tested them in various lighting conditions
  • I focused mainly on still photography, but shot video too

Fujifilm loaned me the X-E5 and new Fujinon XF23mm f/2.8 pancake lens for a period of two weeks, which gave me plenty of time to field-test the camera in a variety of situations, although the wide-angle lens meant I didn’t attempt any sports or wildlife photography (unless you count snapping some insects in my garden). I took the camera with me on various walks and trips, allowing me to test it in a range of lighting conditions and situations.

While the X-E5 supports both photo and video capture, I felt that I should concentrate mainly on the former, as the camera (particularly with this lens) feels geared more towards stills photography than amateur moviemaking. That being said, I did test the various video modes during my time with the X-E5.

First reviewed July 2025

DaVinci Resolve 20 (2025) review
5:09 pm |

Author: admin | Category: Computers Gadgets Pro Software & Services | Comments: Off

When it comes to professional video editing, the first software that likely comes to mind would be Adobe Premiere Pro; some might come up with Avid Media Composer; Mac users would probably point to Final Cut Pro.

But did you know there’s another option that offers professional grade tools at an unbeatable price? That option is Blackmagic Design’s DaVinci Resolve.

It's not just one of the best free video editing software tools out there - it's some of the best video editing software we've ever tested, period. There are no compromises here. Packed with pro-grade features for creative professionals, for what you get here (absolutely loads), it's impressive that it doesn't cost a cent.

DaVinci Resolve: Pricing & plans

  • You can’t beat free, especially for a professional-grade product, but if you want even more power, then grab the ‘Studio’ version for just under $300

Why does it have an unbeatable price? Put simply, because it's free. That’s right: you don’t pay anything to get your hands on a powerful video editor, which also comes with media management, impressive colour grading, compositing and sound editing tools, and not an ad or watermark in sight.

How can such a tool be free? Likely because it's heavily subsided by Blackmagic Design’s extensive hardware portfolio. But surely it must have some limitations, right? Well yes, there are, but frankly they may not be seen as a hindrance to most editors: the biggest limitation is restricting exports to 4K and 60fps.

If that clashes with your workflow, then you should consider DaVinci Resolve Studio, which raises the ceiling to 32K and 120fps, and includes a host of other advances features, including HDR10+ formats, digital cinema packages for theatrical distribution, including a host of advanced AI tools which have been released with version 20. Studio will cost you just under $300 - all future updates, large or small, are included in that one-off fee.

This review’s focus is on the free version, which you can download for your PC, Mac and Linux machine, which you can get by clicking here.

  • Score: 4.5/5

DaVinci Resolve: Interface

Blackmagic Design's DaVinci Resolve during our review

(Image credit: Blackmagic Design // Future)
  • A wealth of editing tools wrapped inside a very well organised interface, coupled with detailed online video tutorials. Perfect for pros and novices alike

DaVinci Resolve is a big app. As we’ve mentioned above, not only can you edit a video project with it, but you have access to other features that would often be offered as a separate dedicated program. In order to facilitate working with so many tools, Resolve is broken down into seven different categories, which are referred to as ‘Pages’.

These are organized in the order in which your project progresses: you import and sort out your clips in the ‘Media’ page, then use ‘Cut’ or ‘Edit’ to build your project; after that, ‘Fusion’ is where you assemble complex special effects, followed by ‘Color’ for colour correction, ‘Fairlight’ to work on your audio, and finally, ‘Deliver’ to export your work and share it with others.

It’s all very well designed and straightforward, with perhaps the exception of ‘Cut’ and ‘Edit’. Why would anyone need two separate pages to cut a movie? The answer is simple: one is to do quick work, while the other offers more tools and additional precision. ‘Cut’ can also be seen as an introduction to Resolve, for those with little to no previous experience with video editing.

You can easily switch from one to the other, using tools in ‘Edit’ that aren’t available in ‘Cut’, then moving back to ‘Cut’ to carry on in a simplified environment (you can still see the effects of the tools you used in ‘Edit’ even if you can’t access and alter these effects while in ‘Cut’).

If you’re an experienced editor, you’ll acclimatise to Resolve’s way of working in little time, but newcomers to this art might well feel overwhelmed by the sheer power at their disposal - this is not your basic run of the mill limited free app.

But don't panic and run for the hills, as this software can and does grow with your skills and confidence - being able to switch between the basic ‘Cut’ to the more advanced ‘Edit’ is testament to that. And to help you on your journey, Blackmagic Design offer a detailed series of tutorials, complete with project files, on their website, again, completely for free (click here).

  • Score: 5/5

DaVinci Resolve: Features

Blackmagic Design's DaVinci Resolve during our review

(Image credit: Blackmagic Design // Future)
  • So many new features designed to improve, enhance and add to your editing experience. Sadly (but unsurprisingly) the best ones are kept for paying customers

DaVinci Resolve was recently updated to version 20, and the number of new and improved features is huge - the list is far too long for us to discuss each in turn. Instead, you can check what’s new here. We’ll discuss here the ones that struck a chord with us the most.

Version 19 was released only a year ago, and the improvements are stark… although, as you’d expect, Blackmagic Design have unsurprisingly kept the best for their paid-for Studio version. Need another incentive to upgrade? How about getting Studio to automatically edit a Multicam project for you? Or get it to retime a score so it fits the exact length you’re after? Or how about feeding it a script and let AI edit a scene for you based on the clips you’ve imported, complete with multiple takes spread across multiple layers so you can choose between them?

But fret not: the free version of Resolve also comes with a host of new and very useful features, which will greatly improve your workflow. For instance, you can now (finally!) easily extract a multi-layered PSD file and work with its layers individually in the Edit page’s timeline (prior to 20, this was only possible in the Fusion page).

Blackmagic Design's DaVinci Resolve during our review

(Image credit: Blackmagic Design // Future)

You can record a voice over directly from the Cut and Edit pages, with controls located just above the timeline. You’ve even got numerous options, such as a countdown timer, being able to choose from all connected microphones (even your iPhone), where to save the recording and on which layer to display it, for instance.

The text tools have received some love too. Your text can (finally!) wrap inside a text box, and there’s a new ‘multi text’ clip within which multiple text boxes can be created, enabling you to create complex titles without cluttering your timeline.

If you’re working with multiple timelines within a single project, you’ll likely appreciate being able to open a second one in the source viewer. This is nothing new, but 20 allows you to also edit that timeline from there, enabling you to see two timelines at once, switch between them and edit either (to help you differentiate them, the playhead changes colour from red to blue depending on which timeline you’re in).

Blackmagic Design's DaVinci Resolve during our review

(Image credit: Blackmagic Design // Future)

And we’ve got just enough time to gush over the revamped keyframe tools. They’ve been greatly improved and are now available in multiple locations, depending on your preferred way of working.

You can see them top left, either as a list, or as curves (which makes it so much easier to tweak them - you can even hold down the shift key to restrict their movement, allowing for much greater precision). These keyframes are also available in the timeline itself, giving you a greater visual feel for how they affect the clips in question.

Let’s be honest: this is just scratching the surface. Blackmagic Design have worked hard to deliver a significant update to Resolve (and especially Resolve Studio), and despite the fact the best tools are reserved for paying customers, those on an extremely tight budget haven’t been abandoned.

Resolve is an incredibly powerful application, with complex tools, from video editing, to image compositing, colour correction and audio manipulation. If you’re serious about filmmaking but have to watch your budget, downloading DaVinci Resolve should be a no brainer.

  • Score: 4/5

Should I try DaVinci Resolve?

Blackmagic Design's DaVinci Resolve during our review

(Image credit: Blackmagic Design // Future)

Try it if...

You need a professional grade video editing solution with advanced compositing tools, audio manipulation, extensive colour correction, and you’re on a seriously tight budget

Don't try it if...

You don’t like free software with no ads and no watermark. Seriously, the only reason you shouldn’t try it is if you’re not interested in video editing.

For more creative software, we've tested and reviewed the best video editing software for beginners and the best video editing apps for mobile devices.

Adobe Premiere Elements (2025) review
4:16 pm |

Author: admin | Category: Computers Gadgets Pro Software & Services | Comments: Off

As its name suggests, Adobe Premiere Pro is for professionals, or at the very least, people who are super serious about video editing, and want control over every aspect of their project, right down to the individual pixel…

But what about the rest of us, those who want to create with something simple, but also have fun with the process? That’s where Premiere Elements comes in.

It's a consumer-grade alternative to Adobe Premiere Pro for anyone who wants video editing software for beginners.

However, while the 2025 version comes with a great new interface, there's also a big catch we can't ignore: your purchase is limited to three years' use.

Adobe Premiere Elements: Pricing & plans

Adobe Premiere Elements during our review

(Image credit: Adobe // Future)
  • A good price for an easy to use video editing application. Well.. it would be a good price were your purchase not limited to three years - after which your licence expires. This isn’t a purchase: it’s a rental

Unlike Adobe’s professional portfolio, you don’t need to subscribe to the software in order to use it: you can grab Premiere Elements for just under $100 (or £87), or get it bundled with Photoshop Elements for $150 (£131).

You can download the software for Mac or Windows directly from Adobe by clicking here.

You’re even granted a 7-day trial to check out the software, although you’ll have a great big “created with trial version” plastered all across your clips during that period.

If you’re happy with what you see, you’ll need to redeem your purchase. Unfortunately there’s an annoying hoop you have to jump through, as you don’t get to put your code in the software itself, but online through a special page here.

And, frustratingly enough for us, even though we were logged in with our AdobeID and the code was recognised online, our software kept insisting it was still in trial mode. Hopefully this may just be an isolated incident, or linked to the fact ours was a review copy, but we would be remiss if we didn’t mention it here (we used our free 7 days to put the software through its paces, hence the unsightly watermark in the screenshots).

Sadly, there’s an even bigger issue we have to highlight: despite the fact you’re paying a one-off fee, and Adobe clearly refers to it as a ‘purchase’ that you are ‘buying’, you don’t get to own that software for as long as you want. Back in the day, that is what a “one-off fee” was.

As long as your computer’s hardware and OS remained compatible with the software, that fee would’ve been all you had to pay. You didn’t even need to buy any future upgrades if you didn’t want them. One fee, one app, job done.

But Adobe is changing that. That $100 (or $150 for the bundle) only gives you a license for 3 years from the date of purchase. After that, the software becomes inoperable.

So, this is no longer a purchase, but a long-term rental, paid in advance. That’s a very underhand way of introducing subscriptions to their non-professional apps.

If you’re looking for a cheap video editor, there are alternatives. For instance, DaVinci Resolve may look intimidating from a newcomer’s perspective, but it’s free, has no registration issues, and is way more powerful than Premiere Elements - although you will be venturing away from the Adobe ecosystem. Even Adobe's quick-and-easy Premiere Rush is free (see our Adobe Premiere Rush review here).

  • Score: 2/5

Adobe Premiere Elements: Interface

Adobe Premiere Elements during our review

(Image credit: Adobe // Future)
  • A redesigned interface that still offers the same ease of use we’ve grown accustomed to, but with a sleeker finish, and more logical repositioning of tools

OK, enough ranting. Let’s take a look at the software. As before, the interface is split into three, depending on your skill level, from ‘Quick’, to ‘Guided’, to ‘Advanced’. ‘Quick’ is designed for both beginners and those wishing to edit fast. As such, it offers a reduced set of tools and options. ‘Guided’ provides a series of tutorials to help you learn more about the software and editing in general, while ‘Advanced’ offers the full range of what Premiere Elements has to offer, which is reflected by a more intricate interface.

You can also switch from light to dark mode, which granted is not new, but the fact you can do so without having to restart the program is a definite plus. So far so good. The main issue here though, is that compared to the last time we checked out the software, everything looks radically different. In fact, Premiere Elements now looks more like Premiere Pro, complete with a totally customisable interface including tearaway windows, which is not necessarily a bad thing, but it may necessitate existing users having to reacquaint themselves with their software. It also does away with the simplified, less intimidating look, it had before.

Despite that, you should find Premiere Elements to be easy to use. For instance although ‘Quick’ offers fewer tools, they can be found in the same location in the ‘Advanced’ interface. This makes it easy to switch between the two. Editing in any interface is pretty much all about dragging and dropping, the sidebar on the right offers you many changeable parameters, which you can animate through the use of keyframes, even in ‘Quick’ mode.

All in all, Premiere Elements is an elegant and well designed video editor with more than enough tools to satisfy even the most demanding amateur.

  • Score: 4.5/5

Adobe Premiere Elements: Updates

Adobe Premiere Elements during our review

(Image credit: Adobe // Future)
  • Improvements to existing tools, and welcome new features. It might not look like a lot, but it’s all for the better, and we certainly can’t complain about that

Aside from the new coat of paint, Premiere Elements 2025 brings a few new tools to the table, while improving existing ones. One of these is the voice-over narration tool which is no longer in the sidebar, but can be triggered directly from the Timeline: you’ll find a microphone icon at the start of any audio layer. Click on it and the recording will start (after 3 seconds) wherever the playhead is located.

Premiere Elements 2025 hosts a load of new title templates in the left sidebar, including direct access to a hundred from Adobe Stock. All those we randomly checked were free to use.

The colour correction tool has been revamped, with a host of new changeable parameters, even allowing you to set the white balance by using an eye dropper to click anywhere on your footage. Simple and effective and actually used by many if not most of Premiere Elements’ competition, so it’s about time we’ve finally got it here. You’ll also find a bunch of new filters (referred to as Video Effects) which apply a colour style to your footage.

One new feature we particularly liked is the ‘Time Stretch’ tool. Retiming a clip is nothing new, but here Premiere Elements does it as effortlessly as possible. It comes as a new icon to the left of the Timeline, along with other editing tools. With it selected, when you drag the edge of a clip in the timeline, you no longer alter its in and out points, but you retime the clip.

You can tell (in ‘Advanced’, but puzzlingly not in ‘Quick’) what you’ve done thanks to a percentage value next to the clip’s name in the timeline. This is so incredibly easy to do. If you need to be more precise, right-click on the clip, and choose ‘Time Stretch’ from the menu to reveal a floating window from which you can type in a percentage, or specific duration.

And a very useful addition for those upgrading from an older version, is the fact projects created with a previous version can now be opened in this one. They will have to be updated, and some effects or filters won’t be preserved, but having to make a few fixes is a lot better than being denied access to the work you did previously.

  • Score: 4/5

Should I buy Adobe Premiere Elements?

Adobe Premiere Elements during our review

(Image credit: Adobe // Future)

Buy it if...

You need a versatile video editor that isn’t too complex while allowing you to have simple to advanced tools, depending on my needs and skill.

Don't buy it if...

You don’t like the idea that your software will expire in 3 years despite having paid for it, and the interface looks too much like the Pro version for your liking.

For more creative essentials, we've tested and reviewed the best video editing software, the best free video editing software, and the best video editing apps for mobile devices.

Adobe Premiere Rush (2025) review
3:53 pm |

Author: admin | Category: Computers Gadgets Pro Software & Services | Comments: Off

Premiere Pro is Adobe’s high end video editor, so it’s not for everyone. Heck, even regular old Premiere Elements can feel too powerful to some.

Isn’t there something incredibly simple that can work on both computers and mobile devices? Enter Adobe Premiere Rush.

As the name implies, it's all about cutting content quickly. It's ranked among our best video editing apps, with its emphasis on ease-of-use and simplicity for creating social media or marketing content. I took a look at the latest version to see how it fares.

Adobe Premiere Rush: Pricing & plans

  • An app that’s free to use, is multi-platform, and easy to download and install. Can’t get much better than that

Getting your hands on a simple video editor is one thing, but everyone will ask, “how much will this cost me?”

And there’s good news here too: Adobe Premiere Rush is actually free. You do need to set up an Adobe ID in order to use it (if you don’t already have one), but this is free too. It also comes bundled free with other Adobe apps if you're already a subscriber.

You can download Rush for your computer via the Creative Cloud app, and for your mobile device via its app store or by clicking here.

Clean, simple and effective.

  • Score: 5/5

Adobe Premiere Rush: Interface

Adobe Premiere Rush during our review

(Image credit: Adobe // Future)
  • Premiere Rush’s interface remains very similar on various devices, and although icons may be located in different areas, it will take you seconds to transfer your skills from one machine to another

We were pleasantly surprised to see that the interface is remarkably similar whether you’re working on a computer, phone or tablet. It’s not identical, mind, as the aim is to play to each platform’s strengths, but at least the tools are grouped together.

For instance, those to control and manipulate Graphics. Effects, Colour correction, Speed adjustments, Audio and Cropping can be found top right on a computer, but at the bottom of the screen on a phone. Icons to control expanding the audio layers, revealing control tracks, cutting, deleting and duplicating a selected clip, are all on a sidebar lower left of the interface on a computer. Those tools will also be at the bottom of a phone’s screen, separated from the others by a divider line.

This may feel like the interface is different, but such changes are actually minor, and as the icons are identical, it will take you seconds to recognise what you’re after and learn where they are positioned when moving from one device to another.

Perhaps the biggest difference between devices is how the playhead behaves. On a computer, it acts as you would expect a video editor’s playhead to: click and drag it to another location to skim through your footage, or click on another location on your timeline for it to jump to that point. On a mobile device, that playhead remains fixed at the centre: the project itself moves left or right as you place your finger on the screen and drag left or right.

This plays to each device’s strengths, as a limited screen real estate demands compromises. One thing to bear in mind: you can only edit in the portrait orientation for a phone.

  • Score: 4.5/5

Adobe Premiere Rush: Editing

Adobe Premiere Rush during our review

(Image credit: Adobe // Future)
  • Rush’s way of editing is similar to CapCut or Final Cut Pro, and if you’re used to that, you’ll feel right at home, otherwise it will take you a few minutes to get used to it. But this is undeniably a powerful way to edit precisely and with speed

The aim of Premiere Rush is to help you create a project very quickly and with that in mind, it uses what Final Cut Pro and CapCut users would recognise as a ‘magnetic timeline’, which means when you alter the length of a clip in your project, you don’t end up with a gap between it and any clip that you’d added further along the timeline. Instead, they all move to fill that gap. Extend a clip and they’re all pushed forward. You can easily swap the order of the clips and no gap is ever left in your timeline. This actually helps you build an edit incredibly quickly.

By default, it looks like you can only work with a single layer of audio and video, which also helps give a user the impression that this is a simple app. Although you can certainly work with it like that, Premiere Rush actually supports up to 4 layers of video and 3 of audio, allowing you to place clips over others, thereby creating much more complex projects.

Incidentally, this magnetic timeline we described above, only works on the first layer. When you add a clip above another, that upper clip will actually attach itself to a lower one. Delete the lower clip and that upper clip will be gone too. Move that lower clip to another location, and this will also move the upper clip(s) connected to it. This is something worth bearing in mind as it could easily confuse a novice editor or one not used to this way of working.

  • Score: 4.5/5

Adobe Premiere Rush: Effects

Adobe Premiere Rush during our review

(Image credit: Adobe // Future)
  • An acceptable range of effects, with some useful features, although some, like ‘Speed’ feel very primitive by today’s standards

Premiere Rush comes with a handful of effects, such as animated overlays, be they text layers, lower thirds, or animated transitions, and they are all applied on a second layer (meaning if you didn’t already know you could work with multiple layers in Rush, that would’ve been a big clue!) Each graphic is fully customisable with changeable parameters appearing when you select it (to the right on a computer, at the bottom on a phone).

Aside from those animated transitions, you’ll also find a handful of ‘standard’ ones in the Effects section, along with Pan and Zoom, and Reframe tools. We were somewhat disappointed the Pan and Zoom tool only worked on photos.

We quite liked that you can make colour adjustments, either based on filters or through manual alterations, and save those changes as new presets you can use and apply on other clips.

Sadly, we found the speed alteration tool to be very basic. We couldn’t detect any frame blending. Instead, the slower the clip became the more the video stuttered, as frames were simply copied to accommodate for the increased length.

  • Score: 3.5/5

Adobe Premiere Rush: Sharing & syncing

Adobe Premiere Rush during our review

(Image credit: Adobe // Future)
  • You can upload your project to various social media sites, as well as saving a copy to your hard drive, but the loss of syncing between devices is puzzling and sorely missed

When it comes to sharing, you can export your project to your local drive, or upload it to YouTube, Facebook, Instagram or Behance. You even have access to some advanced format settings if you need them, which is great for pro users.

There is however a feature that is no longer present and feels like a great loss: you used to be able to sync your project between various devices, as long as they were all logged in to the same Adobe ID. This allowed you to work on your phone, and continue editing on your computer, and vice versa, giving you great flexibility. Sadly, Adobe nuked that functionality in 2024.

We could understand that this would’ve been seen as an advanced feature for a free app, but why not preserve it for those who pay for one of Adobe’s various subscription packages? Killing it for all was very disappointing.

  • Score: 3/5

Should I try Adobe Premiere Rush?

Adobe Premiere Rush during our review

(Image credit: Adobe // Future)

Try it if...

You’re looking for a video editor that’s easy to use, which is compatible across multiple devices, and is free

Don't try it if...

You need more powerful effects tools, don’t like the concept of a ‘magnetic timeline’, and don’t like the loss of functionality.

I tested out this Hinomi ergonomic office chair – and it’s a serious space-saver with a big catch
2:12 pm |

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

The Hinomi H1 Pro has more adjustability than I know what to do with. There are adjustments for nearly every portion of the chair. It's the kind of chair that if you need a chair, period, this one can solve what you need it for. The arms can fold up and away, or be dialled in to exactly what you may want, the backrest can be fine-tuned to fit your needs, the piston itself can be swapped for a taller one to suit all heights, and even if you don't have storage for a chair at your desk you can fold this chair in half, something I have never seen before, and you can then tuck it away under your desk space to save on that room.

Of all of the features that this chair packs into a reasonably priced chair, the folding is by far the best for me - it's a feature not even found on most of the best office chairs around.

While most people adjust the chair to fit the arms under the desk, others may adapt the desk to raise it slightly to accommodate the arms (if they have a standing desk). But, a third option arises with the H1 Pro: you can keep your desk exactly as is, and you can fold the chair completely away underneath the desk, making room for whatever else you may have planned in that space.

This is a fantastic solution if you're crammed for space, if your office is multi-purpose, or if you're particular about your workspace and want to ensure that others don't try to sit at your desk out of sheer confusion about what's happening to your chair.

Hinomi H1 Pro

(Image credit: Collin Probst // Future )

Hinomi H1 Pro: Pricing and Availability

The Hinomi H1 Pro retails for around $580, with the ability to ship globally directly from Hinomi's website. You can also find this chair widely available on third-party sites, such as Amazon.

Hinomi H1 Pro

(Image credit: Collin Probst // Future )

Hinomi H1 Pro: Unboxing & first impressions

The chair arrived nearly fully assembled, requiring only about 5 minutes of effort on my part to set it up. The build overall feels solid, though I was a bit weary of the abundance of plastic parts.

It may be because the grey color is a bit dull, since I opted for the flagship Ice Green colorway, or maybe it's just my mind playing tricks on me, but at first glance, the grey looks a bit cheap, though it feels fine.

The Ice Green mesh feels comfortable, neither too rough on the skin nor too soft, yet firm enough to provide support as needed.

Hinomi H1 Pro: Design & Build Quality

Hinomi H1 Pro

(Image credit: Collin Probst // Future )
Specs

Weight Capacity: 300 lb
Adjustments: 3D lumbar (height + tension), 5D armrests, recline to 136°, seat depth, headrest
Tilt Angles: recline to 136°

The Hinomi H1 Pro also features a unique design. I don't know what it is. It does everything at once, but in doing so, it looks a tad gimmicky. However, the features it offers are helpful. That's where I can land; this chair may look different, but its functionality makes up for it. This is the chair that won't be in an executive's corner office, but it could be in their home office, providing the comfort they want.

The plastic design helps keep the weight down on the chair; however, under load and stress, I have occasionally heard a squeak, which I don't love. But, again, the flip to that statement is that this chair is rated for up to 300 lbs, and even when I put the chair to the test and had a friend of mine who is 305lbs sit down in this chair, there were no issues, no damage, no failures in functionality, nor discomfort. My friend asked if he could keep the chair, as most are not as comfortable, especially for people of his size.

I mentioned it briefly above, but another element that makes this chair interesting is its highly adjustable, nearly modular nature. The armrests can fold away entirely, the chair has a leg rest, and it has the option to fold flat. This is quite impressive for a single chair to accomplish all of this at once.

Hinomi H1 Pro

(Image credit: Collin Probst // Future )

Hinomi H1 Pro: In use

I've had this chair in my ever-so-robust rotation of chairs for 123 days now. In that time, I've put in plenty of hours working in this chair, even for hours on end. So far, the chair has performed wonderfully. I haven't noticed any issues with the features, the adjustments, or the previously mentioned folding mechanism.

Although I was concerned that the plastic pieces would break easily, I have yet to experience any damage to the chair. With that being said, I've had some team members sit on this chair and mention that the lumbar support is not comfortable for them, no matter how many times I try to adjust everything for them.

Speaking of adjustments, the footrest has been great, the recline has been smooth and easy, the armrests have been pretty good as well, sometimes coming in clutch with needing to push an arm back and out of the way entirely for specific occasions.

I've used the folding feature more often than I expected. I thought I'd use it from time to time, to move things around or try it out. However, even in my home office/studio space, where I have plenty of room, I have found it highly convenient to fold this chair down and push it out of the way under a desk I'm testing, so I can bring in more gear to test. This ability would be invaluable for smaller home offices, guest rooms, condos, apartments, and other similar spaces.

Attributes

Notes

Rating

Design

Sleek and minimal

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

Ease of use

Very easy to use

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

Practicality

Practical for some

⭐⭐⭐⭐

Price

Highly priced

⭐⭐⭐⭐

Hinomi H1 Pro

(Image credit: Collin Probst // Future )

Hinomi H1 Pro: Final verdict

The Hinomi H1 Pro is a highly adjustable ergonomic chair featuring comfortable mesh, a convenient folding ability, a legrest, and an excellent warranty. However, it may not look like the fanciest chair, but once you sit in it, you'll see just how comfortable and adjustable it is. If you're in the market for a chair that saves space while offering high levels of adjustability, check out the H1 Pro.

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