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UPERFECT Delta Pro Touch 16-Inch 2.5K Dual Monitor review
8:15 pm | January 20, 2025

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

The UPERFECT Delta Pro Touch is designed for professionals and screen-real-estate-lovers on the go. It provides unmatched productivity and creativity potential in a portable and easy-to-use package. With a single USB-C cable, you can quickly push to both displays (depending on the computer's limitations), running them as mirrored, two separate displays, one long display, or running two entirely separate inputs simultaneously. All this while also enabling 10-point touchscreen abilities, again limited only by the computer's operating system. The Delta Pro Touch comes with a touch pen to help with more precise input if you choose, though the touch screen works great without the touch pen.

The part that makes this display so wildly impressive is that it's so powerful in such a simple and relatively portable form factor. Unlike even some of the best portable monitors I've reviewed, this is a display I could see taking with me if I am going on a trip and need an office away from my office for a bit. Granted, I would opt for a smaller display if I were headed to a coffee shop, but this monitor is incredible as a semi-permanent or permanent workspace addition.

UPERFECT Delta Pro Touch 16-Inch 2.5K Dual Monitor: Price and Availability

My model with me is currently discounted from $1,099.99 down to $589.99 on UPERFECT's website. This model will ship later this month (January 2025), while the Delta Max Pro Touch (18-inch) will ship in March 2025.

UPerfect Delta Pro touch Portable Monitor

(Image credit: Collin Probst // Future)

UPERFECT Delta Pro Touch 16-Inch 2.5K Dual Monitor: Unboxing and First Impressions

When I first unboxed this display, I was surprised at its thickness. I thought it was pretty beefy and cumbersome, but then I started to use it and realized just how much went into this monitor, and I realized that compared to a traditional monitor, there is so much smashed into such a small frame that this is wildly impressive how sleek this design is.

Within the packaging, I received the dual monitor, the pen, USB-C and HDMI to Mini HDMI, the power adapter, and a user manual.

The kickstand design is sturdy, even when the angle of the lower monitor gets pretty steep. This kickstand also folds to give a much lower bottom monitor, which is impressive overall.

The port offering is simple and easy to access, though there was slightly clearer labeling on what port is set up for what monitor. However, once I figured it out, it was easy to remember.

UPERFECT Delta Pro Touch 16-Inch 2.5K Dual Monitor: Design and Build Quality

Specs

Display: Dual 16-inch 2.5K (2560x1600) IPS panels.
Color Gamut: 100% sRGB for vibrant visuals.
Touch Features: 10-point capacitive touch with pressure-sensitive pen support (16K pressure levels).
Ports: USB-C and mini HDMI for audio and video.
Refresh Rate: 60Hz.
Weight: Approximately 5 lbs (2.31 kg).
Built-in Features: Dual speakers, auto-rotation, adjustable stand

As I briefly mentioned, the overall design is impressively compact, but that doesn't mean it fits great in any backpack with ease. It's still cumbersome in that way, but for the features and screen you get, it's incredible that it can be that small. Take that as you will, but I can guarantee I won't carry this with me as an EDC, pull-it-out-when-I-want-it kind of monitor. Still, I absolutely will have it set up and prominent for any temp setups I am building if I am traveling and working a normal workload at the same time or if I need to set up a temporary office in my primary bedroom again due to an elongated stay of guests in my home office space.

The port offering on the back of the screen is straightforward to reach, and having all of the controls on one side is great, too. Another thing that I appreciate is that even the top monitor controls and such are on the lower monitor, meaning that when you ultimately have to interact with the OSD buttons and the ports, you can grab the lower, more sturdy, and easier change whatever setting or plug whatever cable in you may need to, all without wobbling the top monitor too bad.

UPerfect Delta Pro touch Portable Monitor

(Image credit: Collin Probst // Future)

UPERFECT Delta Pro Touch 16-Inch 2.5K Dual Monitor: In use

Using this monitor for the last couple of weeks has been fantastic. I have used it with my MacBook Pro, iPad Pro, Apple TV on one display and Mac on another, Dell Precision laptop, Lenovo laptops, etc. I have tested this thing, and as you'd expect from any of the best monitors for MacBook Pro, it has performed marvellously.

The stacked displays are interesting because I have always liked stacked monitors, though I have never thought of stacking two portable monitors. This layout means I can work seamlessly on three screens. If I have my laptop, it takes less space than if I had multiple other monitors. Additionally, I am cramped in space wherever I am, like a coffee shop or a small cafe table. In that case, I can utilize just the top display and put my MacBook screen in front of the lower screen, blocking it but allowing the unique design of this portable monitor to shine, showcasing just how modular and accessible this portable monitor can be. The potential uses are incredible. I have also found myself keeping this on one of my desks to test desktops while running an extra Apple TV to the top screen to give me a mini TV in my office.

UPerfect Delta Pro touch Portable Monitor

(Image credit: Collin Probst // Future)

Another potential use case would be using this as a presentation tool. Thanks to the built-in screen rotation tool, I could flip the top screen down and behind, showing a person sitting across from me my screen, or if I am presenting in a conference room, I could have one screen point towards my right and another towards my left. As I said, the possibilities are truly remarkable.

All around, this monitor has been a joy to use. It's so unique and yet so easy to use, and I find reasons to want to use it. Now, I know that no matter where I am working, I can have a full monitor setup to help me stay productive wherever I am.

UPerfect Delta Pro touch Portable Monitor

(Image credit: Collin Probst // Future)

UPerfect Delta Pro touch Portable Monitor

(Image credit: Collin Probst // Future)

UPERFECT Delta Pro Touch 16-Inch 2.5K Dual Monitor: Final verdict

The UPERFECT Delta Pro Touch is a standout dual-screen portable monitor for professionals who value productivity, creativity, and flexibility. Its exceptional adjustability and high-resolution displays make it a worthwhile investment for those seeking to maximize their workflow efficiency on the go.


For more displays, we tested the best business monitors.

Ugreen Uno 10000mAh 30W power bank review: it may look like a robot, but it’s not built like a tank
6:00 pm |

Author: admin | Category: Computers Gadgets Phone Accessories Phones | Comments: Off

Ugreen Uno 10,000mAh 30W power bank review

The Ugreen Uno 10,000mAh 30W power bank offers multiple ways to keep your devices running, with a friendly face designed to inject some fun into the gloomy world of charging.

The cutesy robot design is fairly minimal, so much so that you’ll likely only notice it upon closer inspection; there’s no feet or handle as there is with other products in the Uno range.

It's relatively compact for a 10,000mAh power bank, although it's still quite thick and the screen bulges out slightly, as does the power button on the side; the Uno isn’t a perfectly planed rectangle like some of the best power banks, such as the Ugreen 10,000mAh Magnetic Wireless Power Bank or the Anker 621 Magnetic Battery (MagGo).

The overall build quality is good, although it feels a little flimsy in places, with presses able to warp the plastic chassis, so this isn’t a power bank I would feel comfortable taking on more rugged excursions. The screen is nice and thick, though, and seems quite resistant to scratches (at least minor ones). However, the materials used are light, making the Uno easy to carry around with all day without issue.

The faces on the display aren’t just for show; they’re also indicators for the charging status. A smiling face indicates the Uno is currently charging your device, while two love hearts signal that charging is complete. There’s also a sad face to notify you when the bank’s battery is low.

It’s a shame, though, that the charging faces only display intermittently rather than continuously, meaning that sometimes you’ll have to press the power button to see what the status is. The battery percentage of the Uno also isn’t displayed unless the power button is pressed, which would’ve been another useful addition, and one that some Anker power banks feature, for instance.

The faces do change depending on how much battery is left in the Uno, but they’re too subtle to be easily read, and there’s only a few increments available: one for less than 20%, one for 21-79%, and another for 80-99%.

What is very useful, though, is the hardwired USB-C cable, which folds away neatly into its own recess on the back. It’s flat and appears quite durable, although it's quite short, so only useful if your device or charger is close by.

When it comes to charging performance, the Uno has a 30W power output and supports two-way fast charging (three-way charging is also possible, but without the added speed boost). During my tests, it managed to charge my Google Pixel 7a from 50% to 100% in just over an hour via the USB-C port, depleting the bank’s battery from 100% to 77% in the process, so you should be able to get about four charges out of it. Charging the bank itself from 25% to full via the USB-C port took about 90 minutes, which is an impressive performance.

There’s also a trickle charging feature, designed to protect smaller devices, such as earphones and smartwatches, by providing a low-level, continuous current. It can be activated simply by holding the power button for three seconds.

As large capacity, multi-port power banks go, the Uno offers good value for money, especially considering its 30W power, which is on the higher-end of the spectrum for a compact power bank.

Ugreen UNO 10000mAh 30W power bank charging iPhone 13

(Image credit: Future)

Ugreen Uno 10,000mAh 30W power bank review: price & specs

Close-up of ports on Ugreen UNO 10000mAh 30W power bank

(Image credit: Future)

Should I buy the Ugreen Uno 10,000mAh 30W power bank?

Buy it if…

You want powerful charging
With a 30W power output, the Uno can charge your devices quickly.

You want versatility
The Uno’s three-way charging capability means you can charge multiple devices at once, and the hardwired USB-C cable adds even more convenience.

Don't buy it if…

You want detailed info
Despite the fun faces, a more in-depth interface would’ve been useful, showing aspects such as the Uno’s battery percentage and estimated times, like some rivals include.

You want the toughest power bank
The chassis won’t inspire much confidence if you’re taking it on wild adventures, but it should hold up for casual travel.

Ugreen Uno 10,000mAh 30W power bank review: also consider

Iniu B61 power bank
The Iniu B61 power bank closely matches the Uno for price, although it can be found for a lot less. It has three ports like the Uno, albeit two of them are USB-A and there’s only one USB-C. Although it has the same 10,000mAh capacity, it has less total power (22.5W) and there’s no inbuilt cable. It’s also doesn’t feature trickle charging, but it's lighter and feels better built, so it could be the smarter choice depending on your requirements.View Deal

Altra FWD Via review: Comfortably firm for long distances
5:33 pm |

Author: admin | Category: Computers Gadgets Health & Fitness | Comments: Off

Altra FWD Via: Two minute review

I love to run, but I don’t particularly like running fast (well, that’s my excuse anyway). Long, easy runs have become my perfect de-stressor, so when I found the Altra FWD Via, a chunky shoe with a wide toebox, light weight and thick, firm outsole for easy runs, I was very excited to try it.

I’ve run in a lot of the best running shoes in my capacity as one of TechRadar’s resident fitness guinea pigs. Squishy long-distance shoes, firm all-rounders, carbon-plated super-shoes… you name it. Altra is a brand that’s famous for wide toeboxes, and shoes with heels that are the same height as the toes. This design is known as ‘zero drop’. Most running shoes have a sole (or ‘outsole’ in the case of running shoes – see our guide to different parts of a running shoe explained for more) that’s thicker at the heel than at the toe, the difference being known as ‘heel-toe drop’ or even just ‘drop’, and listed in millimeters.

So when I was asked to try the Altra FWD Via, I was expecting this sort of minimalist shoe. However, the Via is part of Altra’s FWD range, which as the name implies, tilts the foot forward with a 4mm drop. The result is a shoe that looks and feels a lot more like your traditional running shoe. Some of Altra’s other design language has been retained, such as the wide foot-shaped toebox instead of the shoe tapering to a narrow point, but the end result is a sort of ‘Goldilocks’ shoe.

Altra FWD Via

(Image credit: Future)

Sure enough, it was a lovely shoe to run in from the outset, handling its first low-intensity 10-mile run and shorter five-mile lunchtime circuits with aplomb. It feels very light to wear on the feet, and handles mid-pace, mid-distance running on concrete with no problems whatsoever. It’s fine on light gravel trails too, providing adequate grip, but I wouldn’t use it on mud and grass.

It does have a lack of snappy speed: the Altra EGO FLO foam outsole is very firm, and doesn’t provide much of the spring-loading you get with faster shoes that compress when you step down and catapult you into your next stride. Instead, there’s a rocker element in the midsole that better supports easy running rather than hard pavement-pounding.

This will put competitive runners off, while its lack of squishiness underfoot and its scant 4mm drop might not be enough for many long-distance runners who require more assistance in their stride.

It’s not a shoe for every runner, then. However, it is a shoe that fits very well with how I like to run – easy, low-effort and long distances, so I can get lost in an audiobook or podcast. If you’re like me, you’ll love it, and it’s the perfect shoe for low-intensity marathon training.

Altra FWD Via: Specifications

Altra FWD Via

(Image credit: Future)

Altra FWD Via: Scorecard

Altra FWD Via: Should I buy?

Buy it if...

You’re an easy runner

The Altra FWD Via isn’t built for spring-loaded speed.View Deal

You’re a long-distance runner

If you love putting in the miles on a weekend, this is a great shoe to try.View Deal

You like a low drop

If you’re not keen on high-heeled running shoes and want to try a more natural way to run, a low-drop is a great place to start.View Deal

Don't buy if if...

You’re after a super-shoe

If you’re looking for something to give you the edge in a competitive race, this isn’t it.View Deal

You don’t run long-distance

If you don’t usually go over the five-mile mark, there are better and cheaper shoes out there.View Deal

You’re looking for a cheap shoe

There are far more expensive shoes out there, but you can also pick up a perfectly serviceable pair of long-distance shoes for under $99 / £99 / AU$149 if you’re strapped for cash. View Deal

Also consider

Saucony Ride 17

The latest iteration of Saucony’s popular all-rounders.

Read our full Saucony Ride 17 reviewView Deal

ASICS Gel-Nimbus 25

A squishy long distance shoe which can now be picked up very cheap.

Read our full ASICS Gel-Numbus 25 reviewView Deal

How I tested

I wore the Altra FWD Via for around 50 kilometers of running over a three-week period. I tested them during a mixture of 5km, 10km and 15km runs, paying attention to the comfort, weight and energy return. I also ran in a narrower shoe to calibrate and check how I felt during the experience.

First reviewed: January 2025

Brother HL-L2865DW printer review
5:03 pm |

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

Type: Mono laser printer

Functions: Print only

Connectivity: Ethernet, USB, Wi-Fi

Data storage slots: none

Max print speed: 34ppm (simplex)

Max paper size: Letter/A4

Print quality: 1,200 x 1,200 dpi

Memory: 128MB

Apple AirPrint: yes

Consumables included: black cartridge, 1,200 pages

Dimensions/Weight: 723 x 435 x 285 mm (WxDxH)/71.4lb/7.1kg

This little laser printer bears Brother’s Workhorse branding, which means it's designed for business use, but its compact size and convenient features will appeal to home workers too.

The Brother Workhorse HL-L2865DW is a single-function black and white printer offering a fast print speed, cost-effective mono printing and a range of useful features. Like many of the best laser printers I've reviewed, this one can auto duplex and its inbuilt Wi-Fi is dual-band, but it’s also equipped with a useful front-loading multi-purpose tray for printing on envelopes. It also comes with the security needed for a shared office and eco-friendly features including settings that reduce energy and toner consumption.

Brother HL-L2865DW: Design and build

Brother HL-L2865DW during our review process

(Image credit: Brother)

The Brother HL-L2865DW is an unassuming grey box that’s small and light enough to share your desktop. It has ports for Ethernet and USB data cables as well as offering wireless connectivity with AirPrint compatibility. It’s a pity there’s no USB Host port at the front, but the front-facing manual feed slot is a very welcome feature as it saves so much time with those single print jobs such as printing on headed notepaper and envelopes.

It feels somewhat light and plasticky and the single-line display is quite hard to read, but at least these money-saving measures keep the overall cost competitive. As this is a mono printer, there’s plenty of room for the single high-yield black toner cartridge, which means your cost-per-page is also competitive.

Brother HL-L2865DW: Features & specifications

Brother HL-L2865DW during our review process

(Image credit: Brother)

For a print-only mono device, the Brother HL-L2865DW has quite a few features to shout about. The print speed is impressive, especially in duplex mode. The given figure is 16ppm (pages per minute) which I corroborated with my stopwatch. In simplex mode, its 34ppm, which is significantly faster than the 26ppm HP Color LaserJet Pro 3201dw.

The single-line LCD is small, but at least it does have a display. The inbuilt wi-fi is dual-band and there’s also an Ethernet port. The main paper tray takes an ample 250-sheets of Letter or A4-size paper and the single-sheet front input slot is essential for those one-off print jobs.

Brother has taken some steps to make this printer more sustainable with an Eco Mode to reduce power consumption, and a Toner Save Mode to reduce toner. It’s a shame that no recycled plastic or parts have been used in its construction, and the packaging includes polystyrene, so there’s room for improvement.

Brother HL-L2865DW: Setup and operation

Brother HL-L2865DW during our review process

(Image credit: Brother)

The setup manual is very brief because Brother is assuming you will download the excellent companion app, called Mobile Connect, and use that as your setup guide. It’s a case of plugging in, loading your paper and installing the toner cartridge, before letting the app on your smartphone get the printer connected to your local wi-fi network. It worked first time for me, and with AirPrint built in, I was able to print from my MacBook and iPhone straight away. It’s also fully compatible with Windows and Chrome OS. The Mobile Connect app is good for general operation too because you can use it to check the toner level, ordering a new cartridge, or update the printer’s firmware.

Brother HL-L2865DW: Performance

Brother HL-L2865DW during our review process

(Image credit: Brother)

I found the Brother HL-L2865DW printed quickly and surprisingly quietly throughout the tests. The quoted speed of 34ppm is accurate enough, while the quoted noise level of 49dB makes this one of the quieter laser printers on the market. It also printed reliably and well, so long as you don’t ask it to duplex thick paper. I found that it could print well on heavy 300gsm paper stock in simplex mode when using the single sheet input, which is designed for heavier paper, but automatically turning the page over always caused a jam. Removing a stuck page involves removing the cartridge to access it. The paper weight limit for auto duplex printing is a rather thin 105gsm.

The primary task of any black and white laser printer is to turn out pages of text and this it does with clarity and consistency. The characters don’t look quite as inky black as some rival laser printers I have tested, but that’s not to say they are pale. When I reduced the font size to just two points, I was still able to read the text (through a magnifying glass) quite easily.

The quoted resolution of 1,200 x 1,200 sounds better than the 600 x 600 you usually get with laser printers, but sadly that doesn’t equate to superior print quality. The black and white photos I printed looked less sharp than other laser printers at this price point can manage. More impressive was the way it applied the black toner very evenly, leaving no tramlines or blocking, which is good news if your documents include pie charts and areas of solid black. As mentioned, however, it’s not the darkest black toner available, so it has a tendency to appear grey.

Brother HL-L2865DW: Consumables

Brother HL-L2865DW during our review process

(Image credit: Brother)

Replacement toner cartridges for this printer are cost effective, especially the high-yield TN830XL (TN2510XL) cartridge, which gives you 3,000 pages for a cost of US$152 (£96). That’s a pretty low cost-per-page. The bundled cartridge yields 1,200 pages, which isn’t too bad for inbox toner either.

Brother HL-L2865DW: Maintenance

Brother HL-L2865DW during our review process

(Image credit: Brother)

Unlike inkjets, laser printers don’t suffer from blocked nozzles when left unused, so they require less maintenance on the whole. They do, however, rely on a drum that, in this case, needs replacing after 15,000 pages and a new DR830 (DR2510) unit from Brother costs US$136 (£106).

Brother HL-L2865DW: Final verdict

Brother HL-L2865DW during our review process

(Image credit: Brother)

The Brother HL-L2865DW highlights how efficient a black and white laser printer can be in a shared office or home office situation. If you can say with certainty that you don’t need to print in color, a mono laser like this is smaller, simpler, cheaper to buy and cheaper to run. With just one cartridge, there’s room for more toner, enough for 3,000 pages in this case, and more paper (250 sheets). And it performed its single job of turning out professional-looking pages of text very well throughout my testing. The print rate of 16ppm in duplex mode is pretty fast and at less than 50dB, it operates quietly too. The only test it failed was duplexing high quality, which caused a jam. The limit for duplexing is 106gsm stock. I would have appreciated a larger display, or a front USB Host port, but the front-loading multi-purpose input slot proved invaluable for one-off print jobs such as printing on envelopes and headed paper. Overall, this basic laser printer proved to be good value for money.


Want a printer for the home or home office? We reviewed the best home printers around.

Philips 49B2U6903CH ultrawide monitor review
4:55 pm |

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

Multiple monitors or one very big screen. That's ultimately what your choice comes down to if you want the very best in multitasking display support. And it's very much the single-screen option of the two that the new Philips 49B2U6903CH delivers on a very large scale.

This is a 49-inch ultrawide model that offers essentially the same screen area and resolution as a pair of 27-inch 1440p panels. To that basic productivity proposition Philips has added high specification connectivity features including Thunderbolt 4 and a KVM switch and basic HDR capabilities. You also get an integrated pop-up 5MP webcam with Windows Hello and AI tracking support.

If that all sounds appealing, the catch is the price. At over four figures, both in the US and the UK, it's much more expensive than a pair of equivalent 27-inch 1440p panels. So, the question of whether the convenience and seamlessness of a single-screen solution trumps the obvious superior value of going with two screens. Let's find out how Phillips' latest model compares to the best ultrawide monitors on the market.

Philips 49B2U6903CH: Design & features

Philips 49B2U6903CH during our review

(Image credit: Philips)
  • No nonsense aesthetics
  • Great productivity feature set
  • High-spec webcam
Specs

Panel size: 49-inch

Panel type: VA

Resolution: 5,120 x 1,440

Brightness: 450 nits SDR, 500 nits HDR

Contrast: 3,000:1

Pixel response: 4ms

Refresh rate: 100Hz

Colour coverage: 119% sRGB

HDR: DisplayHDR 400

Vesa: 100mm x 100mm

Inputs: DisplayPort 1.4 x1, HDMI 2.0 x2, USB-C / Thunderbolt 4 with 100 W power delivery x1

Other: USB hub, including Thunderbolt 4 and USB-C downstream, KVW switch, 5MP webcam with AI tracking and Windows Hello

The Philips 49B2U6903CH is unambiguously a productivity panel, that much is abundantly clear from the simple black aesthetic. RGB lighting and other gamer-centric flourishes definitely do not feature. Still, this is a mostly well-engineered display with a fantastic feature set.

The main negative from a design perspective is the stand. The stability of the panel itself on the stand isn't hugely reassuring, though that's not a huge issue in static use. What is more of a problem is the large size of the flat, solid stand base, which easts into desk space and isn't the most ergonomic solution to propping up a screen this big.

The other ergonomic issue you may or may not like is the location of the audio-out port and USB sockets on the side of the display. There's also USB connectivity on the rear, but if you run with an audio connection full time, it's a little unsightly sticking out of the side. Then again, it's easier to access when plugging in headphones.

Aside from the comprehensive connectivity including USB-C with a generous 100W of power delivery for single-cable laptop docking, Thunderbolt 4 support with daisy chaining, and full KVM functionality, one of the main attractions is the pop-up integrated 5MP webcam situated on the top bezel.

It definitely offers better image quality than most built-in monitor cams. It also supports AI tracking, the idea being that the camera tracks and follows you, removing the need to always sit perfectly centrally. In practice, it's very hit and miss to the point of routinely cutting your head off and being almost unusable. It's probably a software tweak away from being great. As it is, the AI tracking element is best ignored.

Philips 49B2U6903CH: Performance

Philips 49B2U6903CH during our review

(Image credit: Philips)
  • Nicely calibrated VA panel
  • Epic desktop space
  • Mediocre pixel density

The basic format of the Philips 49B2U6903CH isn't exactly novel. But the physical reality of a 49-inch curved monitor with a 32:9 aspect ratio is still very impressive. This is an awful lot of monitor.

The benefit for multitasking is obvious enough. Once you've got used to easily being able to run as many as four full application windows, side-by-side, going back to a standard 27-inch 16:9 monitor feels like a real injustice, it's just so constraining.

As for image quality, the biggest downside of this Philips is the pixel density. If you're familiar with 27-inch or 32-inch 4K monitors, the quality of fonts and image detail is a clear step down. However, for now there are no 32:9 aspect, 49-inch ultrawide monitors available with higher pixel density. So, if you favour this form factor, well, this is as good as it gets in terms of DPI.

Still, Philips has calibrated this monitor well, as indicated by the included calibration report showing an average DeltaE of just 0.88. In practice, that means the SDR colours look accurate and well balanced.

This is also a very punchy display, with a rated brightness of 450 nits SDR and 500 nits HDR. That's plenty for burning off even very bright ambient light conditions. What's more, the panel's SDR-calibration in HDR mode is bang-on, too. That means you can run this monitor in HDR mode all the time and with no need to switch between modes depending on content type.

That said, you do have to be realistic about the HDR capabilities of a display like this. There's no local dimming, let alone the per-pixel lighting of an OLED screen. Long story short, this isn't really an HDR-capable display, despite the VESA HDR400 certification. Indeed, VESA HDR400 pretty much tells you there's no real HDR capability, more support for HDR content rendered with correct colours, which is better than nothing.

Elsewhere, Philips quotes this monitor as being capable of 100Hz. However, in our testing it offered 120Hz and ran smoothly, so the quoted 100Hz may be an error.

Whatever, 120Hz is plenty for desktop responsiveness and smoothness. To be frank, even for a spot of gaming it's more than enough given the high resolution and likely frame rates as a consequence. Not that this is a gaming monitor, but it will do that job on the side just fine.

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Philips 49B2U6903CH during our review

(Image credit: Philips)
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Philips 49B2U6903CH during our review

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Philips 49B2U6903CH during our review

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Philips 49B2U6903CH during our review

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Philips 49B2U6903CH during our review

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Philips 49B2U6903CH during our review

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Philips 49B2U6903CH during our review

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Philips 49B2U6903CH during our review

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Philips 49B2U6903CH during our review

(Image credit: Philips)

Philips 49B2U6903CH: Final verdict

Philips 49B2U6903CH during our review

(Image credit: Philips)

From a productivity perspective, this is a very fine display tool. The huge workspace and outstanding connectivity see to that, while the webcam adds a further productivity flourish even if the AI tracking doesn't really work.

The image quality is likewise all you could ask for from this type of display. It's punchy, it's accurate, it's well calibrated, it's plenty quick enough. Sure, the HDR support is limited. But the real downside for productivity is that mediocre pixel density. For whatever reason, none of the very small number of actual LCD panel makers are currently offering a high density panel in this form factor. You can't blame Philips for that.

What you could take Philips to task over is the price. For sure, a monitor this size with the features it offers is never going to be cheap. But it's more expensive than some OLED 49-inch gaming panels with the same form factor, which doesn't really make sense. All that said, even at this high price, this is still an appealing proposition and a decent long-term investment.


For more content creation displays, we tested the best business monitors and the best monitors for a dual-screen setup.

Juovi J2621 20000mAh 45W Power Bank review: a multiport beast that puts power before portability
4:00 pm |

Author: admin | Category: Computers Gadgets Phone Accessories Phones | Comments: Off

Juovi J2621 20000mAh 45W Power Bank review

The Juovi J2621 is a 45W power bank with a large 20,000mAh capacity and four ports for versatile, long-lasting charging performance. It’s a hefty brick for sure, but thankfully it’s not as heavy as it looks. This means it would be easy enough to carry around in a back, but not slim enough for pocketing.

Overall, its design is fairly anonymous, although the two-tone colorway adds some interest. There’s no clutter to ruin its minimalist credentials, as there’s only one button for the power, but ultimately, the J2621 won’t win any awards for style.

The build quality isn’t on a par with some of the best power banks, as there’s some flex in the chassis when pressed, and the front and back panels have prominent joins that feel sharp in the hand.

However, one very smart-looking feature is the display. It’s imperceptible when inactive, since there’s no glass screen; instead, it shines through the chassis when on. This also means there’s no delicate glass to scratch or crack, which is reassuring.

The USB-C ports provide up to 45W of power. Charging a Google Pixel 7a from half to full took just over an hour, which amounts to an average performance. Thanks to its large 20,000mAh capacity, though, the J2621’s battery only depleted by 16%, which means you should be able to get about six charges out of it.

On the other hand, the USB-A ports only reach a maximum of 30W each. Charging a Pixel 7a via this method was inevitably slower, taking closer to two hours, with the J2621 depleting by 17%.

There’s also a trickle charging mode, designed for low-current devices such as earbuds and smartwatches. It can be activated easily by pressing the power button twice, with an indicator appearing on the display.

The J2621 itself took just over an hour to charge itself from 70% to full, which isn’t bad considering its large capacity.

Ultimately, if you need a large capacity and port selection, then the J2621 is a worthy choice. It undercuts some other power banks, including those from Anker, and although it’s not as well engineered as its rivals, or as portable, it still makes for a versatile power bank.

Side view of JUOVI J2621 20000mAh 45W leaning against block

(Image credit: Future)

Juovi J2621 20000mAh 45W Power Bank review: price & specs

Close-up of ports on JUOVI J2621 20000mAh 45W

(Image credit: Future)

Should I buy the Juovi J2621 20000mAh 45W Power Bank?

Buy it if…

You have multiple devices
With two USB-C ports and two USB-A ports, the J2621 is great if you have lots of devices to charge at once.

You need the power and space
With a 45W maximum output, the J2621 is capable of charging larger devices, such as handheld consoles and tablets. It also has enough juice to offer multiple charges.

Don't buy it if…

You want something ultra-portable
Although it’s light, the J2621 is thick and long, so it’s not ideal if you want to slip it into your pocket.

You want the best build
Although the screenless display is a nice touch, the rest of the chassis doesn’t feel like the toughest.

Juovi J2621 20000mAh 45W Power Bank: also consider

Iniu B61 10000mAh power bank
If you want charging power and versatility in a portable package, the Iniu B61 is a great choice. It offers three charging ports and has a light, slender form that makes it easy to carry in your pocket. It also features a large display, although it’s a little overkill considering the dearth of information it presents. It’s also a shame there’s only one USB-C port. But while the J2621 is slightly cheaper, the B61 is still great value for money.

Rocket Money review
3:04 pm |

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

When it comes to selecting best budgeting apps and personal finance software, most of us are looking for something quick and easy to use. Time is money, so having something like Rocket Money close at hand makes total sense. As its creator’s state on the website, Rocket Money is an app that has been designed to help you save more and spend less. What’s more, there’s a free version although the real value comes from the Rocket Money Premium edition.

Either way, Rocket Money is a great tool that is available for both iOS and Android, along with a very good desktop incarnation for good measure, that is one of the best-looking creations out there. It’s easy to use and chock full of features with the bonus of credit reporting that adds additional value to an already impressive package. On top of that, there are everyday tools for tracking spend, monitoring expenses and also managing subscriptions.

Admittedly, some might find the paid-for incarnation of Rocket Money a little more than they wanted to lay out. However, there are enough features and functions that make Rocket Money feel like good value, although it faces competition from the likes of perennial favourite Quicken and also Simplifi.

Rocket Money

Rocket Money comes in desktop and app editions. (Image credit: Rocket Money)

Rocket Money: Pricing

The good news is that Rocket Money is initially free to use, with a straightforward download and setup procedure that introduces you to its core features. However, in order to access the more useful Premium features, there’s a suggested monthly fee of $10 and you can actually choose whether or not to pay more or less between $3 and £$12, presumably depending on what you think of it. Whatever route is taken, the billing cycle is an annual one, which might not appeal if you prefer more of a pay-as-you-go approach to personal finance apps.

Rocket Money

Rocket Money offers a range of financial tools within its slick interface. (Image credit: Rocket Money)

Rocket Money: Features

Once the Premium edition has been accessed, there are plenty of features that make Rocket Money feel like the outlay has been justified. First up, the app or desktop edition both offer a view of personal finances in simple but very vivid colour, with a comprehensive breakdown of personal finances being the main appeal. There are useful nudges to help with future spending and it’s also possible to setup alerts to ensure that spending never gets too wayward.

Another useful tool is the negotiator option, which can pick through your ongoing bills and scour the deals out there in order to find a way of shaving costs. Meanwhile, the Net Worth tool brings everything together and allows for much better planning when it comes to future finances. Similarly, there’s a credit scoring tool that can assist with seeing how you’ll fare in terms of securing loans and the like.

One of the novel features that lots of people don’t really think about is having the ability to find and cancel any unwanted subscriptions. This is a neat tool that can help curb spending, especially on things that might have slipped under the radar. Add on financial goal tools, budgeting assistants and some funky widgets within the interface and it’s a solid enough package.

Rocket Money

The Rocket Money app experience offers an insight into finances on the go. (Image credit: Rocket Money)

Rocket Money: Performance

There’s plenty of appeal when it comes to the performance characteristics of Rocket Money. This is a lean and mean app, with a desktop edition to match, and it speeds along very nicely in either scenario. Naturally, as you’d expect from software that is dealing with personal finances, there’s also 256-bit encryption, which is standard fare for bank-level processes. That means connecting to bank accounts is simple, straightforward and, crucially, secure too.

Rocket Money: Ease of use

Rocket Money is certainly an easy thing to use, whether you head for the app option or prefer a desktop variant. There’s some of the usual signing up to be done first, as well as connecting to your financial accounts, but once this is done and plugged in, progress is wonderfully straightforward. A lot of this is down the layout of the interface, which is good on the eyes for app and desktop alike. The graphics are clear and concise while there’s a clever use of colour where it’s needed most, especially when it comes to breaking down spending habits.

Rocket Money

Rocket Money is easy to use either via the desktop website or the excellent app. (Image credit: Rocket Money)

Rocket Money: Support

The ease of use mentioned above is a good thing as support is a little on the thin side. However, there is an email or chat facility if needed, but the great thing about Rocket Money is its simplicity. Spend some time checking out the demo or free version, which will give a good grounding in the basics, and it seems unlikely that you’ll come unstuck after advancing to the Premium edition.

Rocket Money: Final verdict

Rocket Money is a good option for anyone who needs to manage their personal finance situation more effectively. The free version is worth bypassing to get the full benefit of this app though, with either the mobile or desktop Premium editions really offering the best potential. Expect a sumptuous graphical interface, with lots of power tools that will enable you to stay on top of every aspect of your finances. Some of the reporting could be a tad better and ditto for the investment tracking potential, but Rocket Money is otherwise very solid indeed.

Hisense HS214 review: I was impressed by this small soundbar’s audio capabilities, especially given its incredibly low price
3:00 pm |

Author: admin | Category: Computers Gadgets Soundbars Televisions | Comments: Off

Hisense HS214 review

The Hisense HS214 could be the perfect soundbar for you if you've decided it's time for an upgrade on plain ole TV audio, but you’re working on a pretty tight budget. The Hisense HS214 is a popular budget option, typically priced at just $99 / £79 (about AU$160). It’s a 2.1 channel soundbar with a built-in sub that aims to offer powerful audio via a compact, all-in-one build. But does it deliver?

Well, before I answer that definitively, let’s take a look at sound quality. I’m happy to report that out of the box, the Hisense HS214 sounds pretty good. When watching I Think You Should Leave on Netflix, a scene with two characters conversing in a people-filled room had clear dialogue, which was decently separated from background murmurs.

Similarly, when watching Howl’s Moving Castle, the vocals of protagonist Sophie felt a bit more defined in the overall mix than with standalone TV audio. During one scene, whistling winds were also replicated accurately, without any tinniness or unintentional harshness – something I always listen out for in my hunt to find the best soundbars available in all price brackets.

Red LED light on Hisense HS214

(Image credit: Future)

One aspect of the HS214 that Hisense talks up is its bass output. That’s mainly because the Hisense HS214 has a built-in woofer, which is meant to offer “powerful bass”, according to the Chinese electronics giant. And in fairness, the soundbar mustered up a bit more of a boom than my TV could manage alone – although it wasn’t massively striking, that’s to be expected given its size.

I watched the horror movie Smile and during a heart-racing scene with screaming and object-smashing, the deep bass playing throughout was a touch underpowered, meaning the full weight of the scene was slightly restricted. Luckily, this can be remedied significantly, thanks to the bass boost/reduce option on the remote. This enables you to raise or decrease bass output by five levels. When cranking up low-end output, the spooky scene in Smile had more impactful bass, which created a darker atmosphere in the build up to the scene’s climax (I won’t spoil it, don’t worry).

So, even if you won’t get massive, imposing bass out of this mini soundbar, it has the potential to offer a considerable leg-up to some of the best small TVs. You may notice the soundbar struggling with deeper bass tones and sub-bass when listening to music, however. For instance, when I tuned in to the bass-heavy Splash Mountain by Yung Gravy, the low-end boom from deep bass running throughout the track was a little bit feeble. More generally, music sounds solid with the HS214, though. It’s decently clear for the most part and doesn’t get awful tinny like some cheap soundbars.

Underside of Hisense HS214 exposing subwoofer

(Image credit: Future)

I mentioned that bass boost/reduce option a moment ago, but you might be wondering what other features the Hisense HS214 has to offer. You get three different sound modes here: Movie; Music; and Night. However, those of you with a Hisense TV will also be able to access Sport and Night mode if you alter the EQ mode via the soundbar settings menu, rather than the soundbar’s remote. Each of these are well differentiated, with Movie adding a bit of emphasis in the low-end. I used this for the majority of testing.

Another feature is surround sound mode, which to clarify, has nothing to do with Dolby Atmos or DTS:X/Virtual:X. When I realised this was an option, I was looking forward to trying it, because even if the HS214’s overall audio quality was good, it didn’t offer much of a spatial impression. Unfortunately, though, surround mode isn’t worth activating. I tried using it when playing Final Fantasy VII: Rebirth on PlayStation 5 and despite providing broader, more nuanced positioning, it wasn’t long before I switched it off. And that’s down to one big issue – it significantly hampers audio quality, which is tinny and a bit unpleasant.

This isn’t the end of the world, of course – the HS214 sounds totally fine without surround mode. And even if it doesn’t offer mesmerizing spatial audio, it does plate up a solid helping of power. It has a total power output of 108W and can get pretty loud, making it an ideal step-up for TVs with weaker audio, or sound that gets easily distorted at higher volumes. And placement isn’t too bad either. During gameplay, one character whizzed across the screen on a motorbike and I got a solid impression of his directionality. Of course, this is a small soundbar and you won’t get much width out of it – especially with Surround Mode off – but general audio placement is decent.

Side of Hisense HS214 with Hisense logo

(Image credit: Future)

One more feature worth mentioning is the dimmer option, which can alter the brightness of the LED light display on the front of the soundbar. I kept it at max brightness, but I have to say, I wasn’t a massive fan of the LED display used here. Rather than displaying volume numbers, EQ modes and more, you just see a small light flash when you change settings or volume. This isn’t the most clear or intuitive and a lot of cheap soundbars, like the Majority Elias, for instance, use clearer displays with words and letters.

But look, I don’t want to be overly critical, especially as I personally like the design of the Hisense HS214 overall. It has an almost leather-like plastic casing on top of that soundbar which is attractive and adds a touch of class. It also has button controls for power, source and volume if you don’t have the soundbar's very neat-looking remote to hand.

Hisense HS214 remote

(Image credit: Future)

On the reverse side, there are a number of ports that enable you to connect your soundbar to a TV in multiple ways. These include: HDMI (ARC); AUX; coaxial; digital optical; and USB-C. That means it should be good to go with any modern TV and gives you plenty of options if all of your HDMI slots are used up. I opted for the HDMI ARC connection type and found setting the soundbar up incredibly easy – just plug in the connector and a power cable and you’re good to go.

All in all, the Hisense HS214 is a very solid budget soundbar. It’s wide of the mark on spatial audio and you may not be wowed in the bass department, but it’s an attractive, compact, easy-to-use soundbar that plates up clear dialogue and solid amounts of power. Given the price you pay, that does make it an attractive offering. If that’s all you need, I’d say this soundbar is worth considering, but for those seeking a stronger spatial impression, one of the best Dolby Atmos soundbars will offer a more nuanced, expansive and premium-sounding experience.

Connectivity ports on underside of the Hisense HS214

(Image credit: Future)

Hisense HS214 review: Price and release date

  • $99 / £79 (about AU$160)
  • Launched in 2021

The Hisense HS214 is positioned as a budget, entry-level option for those looking to add a bit of power to their TV setup. It was released back in 2021 and has a list price of $99 / £79 (about AU$160). However, you may well be able to snap this soundbar up for even less. I’ve personally seen this soundbar available for less than £70 via Amazon UK, for instance, so keep an eye out for some sweet deals.

Hisense HS214 review: Specs

Power port for Hisense HS214

(Image credit: Future)

Should I buy the Hisense HS214?

Buy it if...

You’re working with a fairly tight budget
If you’re looking for a solid, cheap soundbar, the Hisense HS214 is an option worth considering. For less than $100 / £80, you get decently powerful audio, clear dialogue and a bundle of connectivity options – not bad at all!

You’re a little low on space
Something I really liked about this soundbar was its ultra-compact build. It was small enough to just fit under my TV stand and so if, like me, you’ve not got a ton of space to play with, this soundbar will fit the bill.

Don't buy it if...

You want truly cinematic sound
Sure, the Hisense HS214 has a surround mode, but it’s just not very good. On top of that, it’s a small, standalone soundbar, so you’re not going to get the most immersive sonic experience.

You’re an audiophile
And if you’re someone who’s picky about sound, this soundbar might not quite hit all the right notes for you. It’s by no means a poor-sounding soundbar, especially for its price, but if you’re hoping for top-tier music replication, deep, impactful bass and supremely crisp vocals, this may fall short.

Hisense HS214 review: Also consider

Panasonic SC-HTB100
This soundbar is UK only, but if it’s available to you it’s a great budget option. You don’t get any fancy tricks from the Panasonic SC-HTB100 – no Atmos or DTS:X and no hi-tech display either. But if you want clear dialogue, strong connectivity options and solid EQ options at a low price, you’ll be well-served here. Read our full Panasonic SC-HTB100 review.

Amazon Fire TV Soundbar
But here’s one that’s available in the US as well – the Amazon Fire TV Soundbar. This budget option supplies pretty impressive sound, as well as a simple setup process and ultra-compact build. Once again, there’s no Atmos and you’re unlikely to be blown away in the bass department, but this is still a very solid option. Read our full Amazon Fire TV Soundbar review.

Hisense HS214 review: How I tested

  • Tested for one week(s)
  • Used at home with the Hisense U7K TV
  • Predominantly used the HDMI ARC connectivity option

I put the Hisense HS214 to the test over a week-long period. I mainly used HDMI ARC when connecting the soundbar to my Hisense U7K TV – a model which had integrated support for the HS214 in its options menus.

While testing, I watched a number of TV shows, videos and movies – mainly using streaming services like Amazon Prime Video, Netflix and YouTube. I also played Final Fantasy VII: Rebirth on the Playstation 5 to judge the soundbar’s capabilities for gaming. In addition, I connected the Samsung Galaxy S24 FE to the Hisense HS214 using Bluetooth connectivity for playing music. I made sure to play tracks from the TechRadar testing playlist to assess the quality of the soundbar’s Music EQ configuration.

  • First reviewed: January 2025
  • Read more about how we test
I saw Leigh Whannell’s new movie Wolf Man and its depiction of grief is the scariest thing of all
12:00 am |

Author: admin | Category: Computers Entertainment Gadgets Streaming | Comments: Off

Wolf Man is the latest horror movie from Leigh Whannell, who’s known for horror hits including Insidious, Saw, and most recently, his adaptation of the Universal Monster movie The Invisible Man. Wolf Man was one of my most anticipated horror movies of 2025, and I'm pleased to say that Whannell has delivered once again, with a surprisingly heartfelt tale that takes us on a horrifying journey of grief and loss.

These themes are present throughout the whole movie, and it wastes no time in throwing us straight into the action after a family – parents Blake (Christopher Abbott) and Charlotte (Julia Garner), and their daughter Ginger (Matilda Firth) – are attacked by a creature during a full moon. The family end up barricading themselves into their isolated farmhouse hoping to protect themselves from the danger that lurks outside – but unknowingly, they’ve inadvertently locked danger inside with them.

Blake’s body begins to deteriorate and transform into something monstrous, confronting the viewer with horror that is both physical and psychological. Much like The Substance, our favorite body horror of 2024, it doesn't shy away from the gory detail and physiological trauma of a human being metamorphosing into something utterly inhuman . Expect nails ripping off, a jaw being broken, and bones moving – and it sounds as dreadful as it looks, thanks to a sound design that leaves nothing to the imagination, and which really elevates the whole movie. And yet, as horrific as it is to witness, it's the psychological aspects of Blake's transformation that scared me the most. The loss of a person’s identity is a recurring theme across many body horrors; it’s perhaps captured best in the way that Jeff Goldblum’s scientist slowly loses his mind as he loses his humanity in The Fly, and in Wolf Man Whannell approaches a similarly traumatic metamorphosis through a very sympathetic lens.

Without giving too much away, Wolf Man uses some clever POV shifting so we get to experience Blake’s transformation through both human and wolf's eyes, with the latter making for some particularly distressing scenes. As he changes into a ferocious wild animal, Blake can no longer understand his terrified wife and daughter., everything is more heightened. Their inability to communicate cleverly mirrors Blake and Charlotte's already strained relationship.

Julia Garner and Matilda Firth look scared as Christopher Abbott is slumped on the floor looking unwell

(Image credit: Blumhouse)

The goal of a the original Universal Monster movies was to be scary, and the creature in the latest Wolf Man adaptation certainly is. There are some effective jump scares here, again thanks in part to the sound design, which are best experienced on a big screen, though some might argue that the movie is too reliant on the jump. I'm inclined to agree – and for me the psychological aspects of the story are just as frightening if not more so.

The creature design did seem to divide audiences when teasers for Wolf Man were first released, and while I do think it could have been a bit more, well, wolf-like in places, no horror movie has so far really managed to nail the werewolf, and any shortcomings in this department are easily made up for by Abbott’s performance as a man losing both his own humanity and the people he loves. I can easily forgive some slightly-off special effects when a story is as rich and thought-provoking as this, proving that sometimes raw, human emotion is the scariest thing of all. All three of the lead actors are fantastic, but 10-year-old Matilda Firth deserves a special shoutout for the way in which she skilfully navigates the terrifying, dark, jump-filled landscape of Wolf Man, displaying a confidence and maturity way beyond her years. Considering I'm approaching 30 and I watched a lot of this through my fingers, she's officially braver than me.

Wolf Man is quite a way to start 2025, and while January is not typically the season for horror, it's already set the bar high for scarier entries among the new movies we’re looking forward to this year. You’ll want to catch it in the theater for the best experience – but you might want to make sure there's not a full moon that night, as it could make for a nerve-jangling walk home.

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Thrustmaster T300RS GT Edition review: a responsive racing wheel with a few too many rough edges
7:00 pm | January 19, 2025

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

Thrustmaster T300RS GT Edition: One-minute review

The Thrustmaster T300RS GT Edition is a belt-driven racing wheel designed for PlayStation and PC. Considering it’s a GT Edition, this isn’t the most auspicious looking racing wheel. Its rather plain design isn’t helped by the lack of color. However, the leatherette material adds a touch of class and appears to be hard-wearing.

The pedals also feel durable, and feature plenty of adjustments. However, the base can slide around on smooth flooring, so rugs and carpets are best.

Installing the wheel base on a table is somewhat of a hassle, owing to the stiff fastening screw (at least on the unit I had), requiring some lubrication to make it easier. It’s also quite heavy, which means you’ll have to hold it in place while fixing it to a table. The clamping mechanism is also quite clunky, since it’s prone to moving out of position while installing, and gets in the way of the handle on the fastening screw.

Once installed, you should watch out for the self-calibration procedure that takes place as soon as you power it on, as the wheel spins quickly and forcefully. Thankfully, this is the only form of setup when using the T300 RS GT Edition with a PS5 – as you would expect from an officially licensed PlayStation product.

Things were a little more difficult on PC, though. The software tool doesn’t feel the most modern, and it took a few restarts to run correctly and update the firmware successfully. However, it does offer the settings and tweaks you would expect of one of the best racing wheels, including numerous force feedback options.

The T300RS GT Edition performs well in certain areas, but not so well in others. The steering is precise enough, and the pedals offer enough resistance without being too hard. There’s an optional conical stop you can install behind the brake pedal to lend a different sense of feedback, but I found this limited travel too much – which I found a tad too short to begin with.

The wheel can also feel very notchy, especially at the start of rotations; most noticeable when making the slow, gradual movements you might when playing more sedate driving sims. The paddles aren’t damped well enough either, feeling a little harsh in use.

While the button selection is good for PlayStation users, it’s a shame there are no rotary knobs for typical on-the-fly racing adjustments. And on PC, some buttons failed to work in my experience, although quite where the blame lies on this front isn’t exactly clear.

All of these are disappointments for a wheel of this price. The Thrustmaster T248, for instance, is considerably cheaper, yet we think it’s the best racing wheel overall thanks to its excellent performance-to-price ratio. You can of course spend a lot more on a racing wheel, such as the Thrustmaster T-GT II, but we think this is the best premium racing wheel around, as it rivals direct drive wheels – the zenith of racing wheel technology.

Close-up of buttons on Thrustmaster T300RS GT Edition

(Image credit: Future)

Thrustmaster T300RS GT Edition: Price and availability

  • $449.99 / £379.99 (about AU$725)
  • Available now in one color
  • Some rivals are cheaper

The T300RS GT Edition costs $449.99 / £379.99 (about AU$725) and is available now in one colorway. It comes with a pedal set but not an external shifter, although one can be connected.

This makes it quite a lot more expensive than the Thrustmaster T248, our pick as the best racing wheel overall. This wheel offers similarly good pedals and we liked the force feedback with certain games, but again we had some issues with the steering feel.

If you want a more luxury belt-driven experience, then the Thrustmaster T-GT II is one of the best in this category, and comes close to rivaling state-of-the-art direct drive wheels. We still found the rotation wasn’t as seamless as it could be, though, and it’s considerably more expensive than the T300RS GT Edition.

Thrustmaster T300RS GT Edition: Specs

Thrustmaster T300RS GT Edition review: Design and features

  • Plain looks
  • Violent self-calibration
  • Useful software

The T300RS GT Edition cuts a rather bland figure, with a monochromatic colorway and a lackluster wheel design that fails to inspire or excite. Considering this is the variant officially licensed by PlayStation and the Gran Turismo series, I was expecting something a little more special.

The pedals are similarly plain, although the metal heads do lend an element of sophistication. There’s also an optional conical stop, which can be screwed in behind the brake pedal to offer a different level of resistance.

The wheel has a satisfactory feel to it, being neither too thick nor too thin. The leatherette finish feels hard-wearing but offers little in the way of padding. There’s also some perforation to help with grip, and I had no issue handling it securely.

Thrustmaster doesn’t give a weight for the wheel base alone, but it’s reasonably heavy with a bias towards the front, which can make installation a little tricky. The pedal base, on the other hand, is much lighter, which can be a problem for those with low-friction flooring, as I did find it was prone to sliding unless I had a carpet or rug underneath.

Installation wasn’t the most seamless experience. The wheel attaches to the base relatively easily, requiring several turns of the Quick Release ring before tightening a small screw to secure it in place. However, attaching the base to a table is more awkward. The fastening screw in the unit I had didn’t thread smoothly, requiring some lubrication to get it working correctly.

Close-up of pedals for Thrustmaster T300RS GT Edition

(Image credit: Future)

You have to hold the wheel up while you attach it, as it will fall forwards otherwise. This means tightening the fastening screw one-handed, or using your chest to prop it up while you turn it with both hands, which is the method I preferred. The handle for turning the screw kept getting in the way of the attachment system used to clamp the base to the table, which is an annoying design flaw. What’s more, this attachment system is prone to rotating out of position whilst fastening – another irksome fault.

The pedals do have a pleasing number of adjustments, made easily using the included Allen key. You can adjust the height, angle, and spacing, although I would’ve liked a wider range for the latter, as I found my legs were always too close together, but this could be a personal gripe not shared by others.

The self-calibration for the wheel begins as soon as the T300RS GT Edition is powered on and plugged in, and it took me by surprise: it’s sudden and quite forceful, so make sure to keep your hands completely clear of the wheel.

In order to adjust various calibration and force feedback settings, the Thrustmaster Control Panel for Windows is required. This failed to install on first try for me, although a couple of restarts seemed to fix the issue. The same was true of a required firmware update, but this was successful in the end.

Once up and running, the Thrustmaster Control Panel offers many of the usual customization options you’d expect of a racing wheel. You can set the maximum rotation angle and make multiple force feedback adjustments, with static settings for the constant and periodic forces, as well as dynamic ones for the spring and damper effects. All these are easy to make thanks to the basic layout of the UI.

I had no problem connecting the T300RS GT Edition to a PS5, making it as easy to use as the best PS5 racing wheels out there. The button layout on the wheel is also similar to a controller, which makes navigation simple. It’s a shame, however, that there are no rotary dials, useful for adjusting common racing settings such as traction control and brake balance.

Thrustmaster T300RS GT Edition review: Performance

  • Balanced pedal feel
  • Notchy steering
  • Overly strong force feedback

The T300RS GT Edition offers a mixed performance. The steering feels accurate and precise, although the paddles were too clicky for my liking, lacking the satisfying action better damped switches offer.

The pedals provide enough resistance to let you feel how your inputs translate in-game, yet light enough to make them easy to press without fatigue. The clutch pedal offers just the right amount of travel; while I would’ve preferred a bit more for the brake pedal, it still offers enough control. It’s also reassuringly weighted, although I found the optional conical stop added too much resistance, and further decreased the already-wanting travel.

However, my chief grip with the T300RS GT Edition is the notchy feel of the steering wheel. No matter what you do with the settings in the Control Panel, this is always present. I found it particularly noticeable when making small movements close to the center of the axis, which you are likely to do in slower-paced driving sims, as opposed to outright racing sims.

Close-up of paddle on Thrustmaster T300RS GT Edition

(Image credit: Future)

The other settings available in the Control Panel do make a difference to performance. There’s plenty of scope within the force feedback for most gamers to find the right setup. The maximum setting was far too strong for me, with the wheel being too hard to turn and flailing wildly when losing traction in-game. As a result, I preferred having the overall strength setting quite low, at about 15%.

The buttons on the wheel all perform well enough, but don’t match the premium feel of those on the best PC controllers. I did have an issue with the POV hat failing to work with some PC games, but this could’ve been a fault with the game rather than with the input itself.

Should I buy the Thrustmaster T300RS GT Edition?

Close-up of L3 and R3 buttons on Thrustmaster T300RS GT Edition

(Image credit: Future)

Buy it if...

You want good pedals
The pedals of the T300RS GT Edition provide enough feel while being easy to actuate. The multiple adjustments are also useful, although I would’ve welcomed more range for the spacing.

You want multiple platform support
The T300RS GT Edition works with three PlayStation consoles and PC, which means you can use it with plenty of high-end racing sims, from various Gran Turismo titles to Assetto Corsa.

Don't buy it if...

You want the best steering feel
The T300RS GT Edition is rather notchy, especially at the start of its turns, so those who’ll be making slow, gentle movements might want to look elsewhere.

You want the best design
The clamping system is quite awkward and not the best engineered solution. The pedal base also has a tendency to slide on smooth surfaces.

Also consider...

If the T300RS GT Edition doesn't sound right for you, then take a look at these excellent alternatives.

Thrustmaster T248
As the best racing wheel overall in our opinion, the T248 offers a perfect balance between price and performance. It’s considerably cheaper than the T300RS GT Edition, but we think it has great build quality and a useful feature set, all of which help to make it a great all-rounder for those embarking on their racing sim journey.

Read our Thrustmaster T248 review

Thrustmaster T-GT II
If you’re after another belt-driven wheel, then the Thrustmaster T-GT II is one of the best there is in our view. It even gives direct drive wheels a run for their money, which are the gold standard for sim racers. We were impressed with its excellent force feedback and extra buttons, making it a practical wheel. You will have to pay considerably more than the T300RS GT Edition for it, though.

Read our Thrustmaster T-GT II review

How I tested the Thrustmaster T300RS GT Edition

  • Tested for one week
  • Used on PC and PS5
  • Plentiful racing sim experience

I tested the T300RS GT Edition for about a week, during which time I used it on PC and PS5. I installed it myself and made sure to adjust as many hardware and software settings as possible, such as pedal positioning and force feedback. Unfortunately, I wasn’t able to test the T300RS GT Edition with an external shifter.

I played Gran Turismo 7 on PS5 and Assetto Corsa on PC – two two-tier racing sims on their respective platforms. I also played American Truck Simulator to test the wheel for slower, more controlled steering and pedal movements.

I have been gaming for over 25 years, with racing sims being one of my favorite genres. I play numerous titles across various sub-categories such as F1, touring car racing, and rallying.

Read more about how we test

First reviewed January 2025

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