This review first appeared in issue 355 of PC Pro.
Long before the arrival of Copilot, Microsoft Teams became my go-to app that was always active on my desktop. It’s the central tool I use to stay updated about my organization’s activities and it’s where I plan my daily tasks, share content, have meetings and plan long-term goals. Now Microsoft has added Copilot, it has become even more indispensable.
This is most obvious in meetings. The responsibility of capturing important meeting details typically rests on a single person, a task that’s rarely enviable and often challenging. Even with transcription features enabled in Teams, sifting through conversations to find pertinent information was daunting. This is an area where Copilot excels, making it easy to summarize the discussion and draw up action points.
I also find it useful with conferencing, especially long meetings that drag on, when your attention can wander. If I briefly zone out, or I need to head off for any reason, Copilot can offer summaries at any juncture. If you arrive late, or simply don’t get to the meeting at all, being able to ask Copilot for a summary of the meeting with the key action points and follow-up tasks is a huge boon. As is its ability to revisit discussions and extract insights.
This isn’t just theory. Over the past six months I’ve asked Copilot to pinpoint staff disagreements, outline specific risks discussed, verify project timelines and summarize crucial decisions with pros and cons. Using Copilot for these kinds of enquiries saves time by reducing the need to consult busy colleagues, delivering on two fundamental promises of AI: it streamlines communication and enhances my efficiency.
Copilot packs in several other useful features, too. Managers may love (a little too much, perhaps) its ability to analyze participation in meetings by generating metrics showing the percentage of words spoken by each colleague, shedding light on both the most and least active participants. And one standout feature in Teams Premium, not available in the standard version, is the intelligent meeting recap. It parallels Copilot’s meeting notes and holds the information for 30 days. The “follow meeting” function in Teams Premium allows users to capture meetings, pose questions to Copilot post-event, and even analyze the sentiment, although this yields mixed results and is a little creepy.
Copilot in Teams can also save you time. It adeptly transforms meeting notes into Office 365 documents and drafts emails from discussions. And it uses Microsoft Graph to efficiently link and track communications across documents, meetings and chats on specific subjects. This is great if your memory isn’t too good, so this is my favorite feature. As Microsoft states, however, “Copilot is an assistant, not a replacement for human oversight”. It’s crucial that you review Copilot’s output, particularly when it pertains to significant decisions, to ensure accuracy and relevance. So while Copilot boosts efficiency, there is a risk that users may become too dependent on the tool, which could lead to a decline in critical thinking and problem-solving abilities.
Finally, in organizations where cybersecurity is paramount, outputs generated by Copilot don’t automatically carry over the security classifications of the original files. This poses a significant risk when dealing with sensitive information. Consequently, it becomes the responsibility of the employee to meticulously review the AI-generated content to confirm that the data is correctly classified and evaluated for potential risks.
To misquote a certain masked superhero, with great AI power comes great responsibility to check its results.
If we’ve all come to rely on FiiO for anything, it’s for specification and performance that’s out of proportion with the amount of money it’s asking for a given device. The latest product to demonstrate this happy knack in action is the FiiO JM21 digital audio player.
It’s compact, it’s more than adequately built and finished, it’s specified like a much more expensive device, and it’s simple to set up and use. Battery life is well above average for a product of this type, in much the same way that the price is well below. You can spend getting on for twice as much money on a Sony equivalent and it won’t buy you anything more where the quality of construction or the standard of specification is concerned.
So, does it sit among the best MP3 players on the market? It's an unequivocal yes from us.
FiiO JM21 review: Price and release date
(Image credit: Future / Simon Lucas)
Released January 2025
Priced at $199 / £179 / AU$369 (approx.)
The FiiO JM21 digital audio player was announced at CES 2025 and launched towards the end of January 2025. In the United Kingdom it currently sells for around £179, while in the United States it goes for $199. Customers in Australia are likely to have to part with AU$369 or thereabouts.
FiiO JM21 review: Features
(Image credit: Future / Simon Lucas)
2 x Cirrus Logic CS43198 DACs
Balanced and unbalanced headphone sockets
Bluetooth 5.0 with SBC, AAC, aptX HD, LDAC and LHDC codec support
You have to hand it to FiiO – it may have set out to produce the most affordable digital audio player it could realistically manage, but that doesn’t mean it’s felt the need to scrimp on the features.
Which means the FiiO JM21 is ready for any eventuality. It’s fitted with twin Cirrus Logic CS43198 DAC chipsets for compatibility with resolutions up to 32bit/384kHz and DSD256, and these are paired with high-performance op-amps in a fully balanced layout. Its main control, DAC and headphone amp sections are shielded and isolated in their own zones in an effort to reduce signal interference and cross-talk.
Wired outputs consist of 3.5mm and balanced 4.4mm headphone sockets – the 3.5mm socket is a hybrid number that can be used as an SPDIF output for use with an external DAC. The USB-C slot that sits between them can be used for data transfer as well as battery-charging and the 2400mAh battery is good for more than 12 hours of playback between charges. That's as long as you’re using the unbalanced output and not going to town with volume levels, of course.
The JM21 has three ‘gain’ settings, each with a different volume curve. This is especially useful if you intend to use the FiiO as a source hard-wired to an amplifier or a powered speaker – set the output to ‘LO’ and no harm will come to your equipment – and it also means the JM21 should have no problem driving even quite demanding headphones. And if you connect the FiiO to a laptop (for instance) via its USB-C socket, it can function as a USB DAC and enhance your listening pleasure more than somewhat. Used this way, it’s able to deal with 32bit/768kHz and DSD512.
Where wireless connectivity is concerned, the JM21 is both a Bluetooth transmitter and receiver. When it’s sending to headphones, wireless speakers or what-have-you, its Bluetooth 5.0 is compatible with SBC, AAC, aptX HD, LDAC and LHDC codecs. Use it as a receiver and it can deal with SBC, AAC and LDAC. Dual-band Wi-Fi is on board, of course, and the JM21 is DLNA compatible and supports Apple AirPlay, too.
There’s plenty more, from the custom crystal oscillators (with ceramic gold-plated bases) that are screened at the femtosecond level to ensure consistent, stable output to the proprietary ‘digital audio purification’ system that separates the main processing module to the co-processing equivalent. But by now I think the broad point is made: the compact form-factor and relatively low price of the JM21 is not reflected in its specification.
Features score: 5 / 5
FiiO JM21 review: Sound quality
(Image credit: Future / Simon Lucas)
Open, detailed and composed presentation
Good tonal balance and a fair amount of dynamism, too
Not absolutely comfortable at highest volumes
Everything is relative, of course, and everything needs to be put into context, but when you keep the price of the FiiO JM21 uppermost in your mind, it’s hard to find meaningful fault. That doesn’t mean I’m not going to give it a good go, you understand, but between you and me I’m struggling…
No matter if you listen wirelessly via the aptX codec to something like the Bowers & Wilkins Pi6 true wireless in-ears or the Dali IO-8 using aptX HD, using a pair of Sennheiser IE900 connected to the player’s 4.4mm balanced output, or make the FiiO part of a full-size system by connecting it to a Naim Uniti Star using the unbalanced 3.5mm output, it’s a composed, lively and admirably detailed listen. No matter if you listen to a DSD256 file of Mike Oldfield’s Tubular Bells, a 24/96kHz FLAC of When We All Fall Asleep, Where Do We Go? by Billie Eilish or a 16bit/44.1kHz file of De La Soul’s 3 Feet High and Rising, the JM21 doesn’t put a foot wrong. It’s a remarkable little device.
It balances the frequency range really nicely – from the deep and textured low frequencies to the politely shining top end and all points in between, there’s an evenness of emphasis and a lack of choppiness that speaks of a properly sorted player. It hits hard at the bottom end, but with no lack of control: its straight-edged attack means rhythmic expression is confident and convincing. There’s bite and drive at the top end, but it’s composed and never even hints at becoming hard or edgy. And in between, the mid-range is open and revealing, so a vocalist is allowed complete expression of the character and motivations.
(Image credit: Future / Simon Lucas)
The tonal balance is equally well-judged. It’s on the cool side of neutral, but not by very much and not to the detriment of the music it’s playing. Meanwhile, the attention to detail the JM21 demonstrates is really admirable – even those transient details in a recording that are gone almost as soon as they arrive are picked up on and put into appropriate context.
The fact that the FiiO establishes a quite large and easily understood soundstage doesn’t do any harm, either. Even a borderline-chaotic stage like that which Mike Oldfield creates is opened up by the JM21, and the amount of properly defined space it can put between each element of a recording is quite something. There’s plenty of space on the ‘left/right’ axis and even a stab at creating a proper sensation of ‘front/back’, too. Dynamic headroom is considerable, so when a recording indulges in big shifts in intensity or volume, the player has no difficulty in keeping up and making them absolutely apparent.
In fact, as far as I can tell the only way to make the FiiO JM21 sound anything other than entirely comfortable and confident is to wind the volume up towards ‘ill-advised’ levels. When it’s playing at its upper limits, some of the three-dimensionality of its presentation goes astray, dynamic variations become flattened, and the overall sound gets rather shouty. But you should pay attention to your parents/doctor/own common sense – you really shouldn’t be listening at this sort of volume anyway.
Sound quality score: 5 / 5
FiiO JM21 review: Design
(Image credit: Future / Simon Lucas)
121 x 68 x 13mm (HxWxD)
Aluminium and plastic construction
156g
You don’t see many ‘two-tone’ digital audio players, do you? The FiiO JM21 is one, though. It's impeccably built and finished from a combination of high-quality plastic and aluminium, is sky blue on its top half and silver on the bottom. The bottom is quite interestingly textured, too – although you may not get to experience this, as FiiO supplies the player pre-fitted with a protective transparent plastic case.
The top of the machine is basically all touch-screen - it’s a 4.7-inch, 750 x 1334 affair, and it’s big enough and bright enough to display a lot of information without becoming illegible. Despite the relatively large screen, though, at 121 x 68 x 13mm (HxWxD) the JM21 is smaller than even the most compact smartphone, and at 156g it’s no kind of burden to a pocket.
Design score: 5 / 5
FiiO JM21 review: Usability and setup
(Image credit: Future / Simon Lucas)
Android 13
3GB RAM, 32GB ROM (of which 22GB is usable)
8-core Qualcomm Snapdragon 680 processor
The FiiO JM21 uses an extensively adapted version of Android 13 as an operating system, and thanks to an 8-core Qualcomm Snapdragon 680 processor it’s fast and stable in operation. FiiO is open enough to acknowledge that Android 13 is fairly memory-hungry, though, and given the JM21 has just 3GB of RAM available (in order to keep both costs down) it suggests only loading those essential music-streaming apps and avoiding peripheral stuff. It also suggests avoiding running multiple apps simultaneously if at all possible.
The 22GB of usable ROM isn’t going to last long, but there’s a microSD card slot on one side of the player - and it can handle memory cards of up to 2TB, which is enough to store all the hi-res stuff you could possibly want to listen to.
Physical controls are arranged on the edge of the player, too. On the left side (as you look at it) there’s a power on/off button with an LED tell-tale just below it. Beneath there is a volume up/down rocker. On the right, meanwhile, there’s play/pause, skip forwards and skip backwards. Everything you need, in other words, and just as reliable and positive in their action as the touchscreen controls are.
Setting up the JM21 is simplicity itself for anyone who’s ever owned a smartphone. Charge the battery (from ‘flat’ to ‘full’ takes around two hours), put the player on your local network, install the apps you need to install (only the essentials, remember), and away you go. I’m struggling to think of how it could be any more straightforward.
Usability and setup score: 5 / 5
FiiO JM21 review: Value
I’ll say it as directly as I can, for the avoidance of doubt: the FiiO JM21 is tremendous value for money, at $199 / £179 / AU$369 (approx.). It’s as well-made and -finished as any sub-£500 digital audio player you care to mention, it’s specified beyond its asking price, and it sounds great when playing at real-world volumes.
Yes, it could do with more internal memory - but then the physical size, as well as the price, would very probably increase. SO make sure to budget for a microSD card of worthwhile capacity - you’ll still be in possession of a great-value portable music player.
Value score: 5 / 5
Should I buy the FiiO JM21?
Buy it if...
‘Small and affordable’ fits your digital audio player wish-list Other devices from other brands are as compact, but none are as aggressively priced
You want one of the very best pound-for-pound digital audio players around Sure, bigger and pricier alternatives sound even better, but they’re quite a lot bigger and an awful lot more expensive
You admire a two-tone finish It’s not a huge point of difference, to be fair, but the multicoloured nature of the FiiO JM21 is pleasing (to me, at least)
Don't buy it if...
You don’t own a microSD card and don’t intend to buy one There’s not much internal memory here, and even less of it is usable
You’re determined to listen at top volume Some of the FiiO’s admirable composure and spaciousness goes astray if you insist on listening at the sort of levels you’re supposed to avoid
FiiO JM21 review: Also consider
Sony NW-A306 The problem here is that the FiiO JM21 has, at a stroke, made such products as the Sony NW-A306, which previously constituted ‘entry level’, look overpriced and sound pretty ordinary. The Sony is more poised when playing at the biggest volumes, sure, but there’s not a huge amount in it – certainly not to justify the extra outlay. See our full Sony NW-A306 review
Activo P1 As for the Activo, which always looked a bit weird, it's made to look (and sound) almost juvenile by the FiiO JM21. So, all in all, ‘also consider’? Consider spending a great deal more money if you want to make a meaningful upgrade on the JM21… Read our full Activo P1 review
How I tested the FiiO JM21
Tested for two weeks
Listened to both streamed and downloaded content
Tested with both wired and wireless headphones, Bluetooth speaker and amplifier
First things first: I installed the Presto Music and Tidal music streaming service apps via the Google Play store, and I also inserted a 512GB SanDisk microSD card loaded with lots of high-resolution content into the player’s slot.
Then I used a variety of wired and wireless headphones (including, but not limited to, some Sennheiser IE900 in-ear monitors via their 4.4mm socket and a pair of Bowers & Wilkins Px8 connected via Bluetooth), as well as connecting the player to a Bose SoundLink Max Bluetooth speaker and to a full-size stereo system by connecting its 3.5mm output to a line-level input on a Naim Uniti Star amplifier/network streamer.
And at every stage, I listened to lots of different types of music, stored in a number of different file types, and used a variety of Bluetooth codecs when the FiiO was connected wirelessly.
The ROG Pelta is another banger device from Asus’ gaming division. Compatible across most platforms with wired (via USB-C, no 3.5mm in-line sound) and wireless (Bluetooth and 2.4GHz dongle) connectivity, the Pelta gets the important things right and skips the over-the-top extras.
The headphones, which are a step down in price and features from the flagship ROG Delta II, axe things like an extensive battery life, full-range size adjustment, extra cushioning and excessive RGB (though you’ll still find a programmable, glowing ROG logo on both sides).
Simplifying the things that made the Delta II such an attractive headset into a more affordable unit makes sense when it feels like everything is getting expensive around us. The same microphone and 50mm audio drivers are used between the Delta II and the Pelta, so you’re not missing out on sound and performance, but perhaps you’ll miss the comfort and battery life boasted by the top model.
Moreover, the greater points of adjustment present on the Delta II would have been welcome on the Pelta, as it can be difficult to find that comfort sweet spot when you only have three size options instead of telescopic arms. The microphone will also be tiresome if you’re the type to remove it when it’s not in use, as its plastic exterior needs to align perfectly with that of the headset if it’s to make a successful connection.
Finally, there’s no 3.5mm headphone jack for audio between your machine and your headphones (again, unlike the Delta II), so if you want to connect this thing over a wired connection, you’ll need to settle for a USB-C cable. Not a huge issue, but it may be a dealbreaker for some users.
For me, though, I’ve been very satisfied with this headset and its feature set. I’ve enjoyed it for the features it offers, including a useful pause/play button on the side and a slider that toggles between Bluetooth/off/2.4GHz, and I’d happily continue to use it instead of my Logitech G Pro X2 headset.
(Image credit: Zachariah Kelly / TechRadar)
Asus ROG Pelta: price and availability
How much does it cost? $129.99 / £124.99 / AU$269
When is it available? Available now in US/UK, coming soon to Australia
Where can you get it? Available in the US, UK, Australia and other regions
Coming in at a much lower price point than the ROG Delta II headphones (those were priced at $229 / £219 / AU$369 when they released late last year), the Pelta streamlines a lot of what made the top-end ROG headset so good. In our ROG Delta II review, we criticized the headphones for perhaps being a bit feature light, and the Pelta keeps this up but at a much more attractive cost.
That being said, even the ROG Pelta is in hot competition with more feature-rich rivals, such as the SteelSeries Arctis Nova 5 ($129.99 / £129.99 / AU$299) and its companion app. The Pelta, though, doesn't give the impression it's losing out on the features front.
(Image credit: Zachariah Kelly / TechRadar)
Asus ROG Pelta: Specs
Asus ROG Pelta: Features
50mm titanium-Plated Diaphragm Drivers
Immersive stereo sound
Great physical buttons on the left cup
The Pelta recontextualizes the ROG headset offering. The Delta II was already skimping on extras when it was released last year, but the Pelta adapts the Delta II’s impressive upgrades (in particular its titanium drivers) into a much more affordable package.
That means, for the most part, you’re getting the same high-end beast but cheaper. The 20Hz - 20KHz audio frequency response is the same across both units, as is the 100Hz - 10KHz microphone.
I’ll swear by the sound quality and microphone quality of the Pelta. It’s rich, deep and loud, maintaining high-quality sound to its loudest volume and allowing for a lot of customization in ROG’s Armory Crate application. Though heavy bass does suffer compared to a headset like the Logitech G Pro X2.
The 900mAh battery capacity is impressive, offering up to 90 hours with lighting off and 60 hours with it on. Using the headset casually across four weeks, between games and watching TV shows and Twitch streams, I only needed to charge it twice while having the RGB enabled. It’s an acceptable battery life and a welcome downsize from the enormous 1,800mAh battery in the Delta II.
(Image credit: Zachariah Kelly / TechRadar)
The microphone is removable and can be bent around freely, though I found putting the microphone back into the jack could be a pain if you don’t align it just right, due to its unique triangular shape.
Finally, the buttons present on the headset feel very sensible. A volume wheel is there with a decent amount of travel for your fingertip, alongside a microphone off/on button and, my favorite, a pause/play button. Given I'd been using a keyboard that doesn’t have media controls during my testing period, this has been a fairly useful feature and one that I hope more headsets adopt. The off/on slider is mixed with a connection toggle – the central position selects off, sliding up selects Bluetooth, and down selects 2.4GHz. A soundbite played through the headset will indicate if it’s turning on or off and if it’s connecting to either the dongle or Bluetooth.
Just keep in mind that the ROG Pelta uses a USB-C dongle – in case you don’t have a free USB-C port on your device, this may present itself as an issue.
Features: 5/5
Asus ROG Pelta: Sound quality
High-end audio in a cheap unit
Terrific adjustment options
Good but not the best deep bass
Carrying over the audio quality from Asus’ top gaming headset, the ROG Pelta doesn’t disappoint where it matters. The standard stereo sound profile is well balanced for all kinds of audio-visual media, which of course includes games, but it’s also fit for music streaming, TV shows and movies. Sound is crystal clear even with the volume cranked to maximum, though bass depth may leave you craving something with a bit more punch.
Asus’ ROG Armory Crate app offers a decent user experience for making sound quality adjustments. For the most part, I set the headset to the ‘communication’ sound profile as it offered the balanced mix I preferred the most (as I switch between a racing, shooting, RPG and sim game quite readily), though I was pretty blown away with the depth of the FPS preset, which made projectiles and explosions in Marvel Rivals really jump out at me. Still, finding the mode that set the best experience across all uses kept me from constantly dipping in and out of Armory Crate, so that’s what I did.
(Image credit: Zachariah Kelly / TechRadar)
Of course, you don’t merely have to use a preset. There are plenty of sliders to fiddle with so you can tailor the sound to your ears, and there’s also some useful sliders for bass boosting, voice clarity and voice compression.
The microphone quality was a bit middle-of-the-road, but I didn’t expect breathtaking clarity. The much more expensive Logitech G Pro X2 has the same microphone arrangement and produces similar results. You’ll have no problem being understood with this microphone, but it’s certainly not broadcast spec.
On the whole, the headset's sound quality is immersive and had no trouble bringing the worlds of Avowed,Marvel Rivals, Forza Horizon 5, The Headliners and other games to life.
Sound quality: 4.5/5
(Image credit: Zachariah Kelly / TechRadar)
Asus ROG Pelta: Design
Comfortable ear cushions
Only three points of adjustment
Microphone can get a bit annoying
I’m content saying that these are extremely comfortable headphones, particularly for long gameplay sessions in the summer. My home doesn’t have air conditioning, and I’ll typically play games at my computer for hours, often leading to discomfort in and around my ears from the sweat and the constant contact. The ROG Pelta headset hasn’t been irritating my skin as much as other headsets have in the past, and I feel like I can play for longer durations with its comfortable cushioning.
Still, design is another area where the Pelta took a noticeable step down from the Delta II. It features slightly lower-end mesh fabric cushioning around the ears (as above, I personally found this fine), along with only three points of size adjustment for the headband as opposed to the telescoped design you’ll find on many other high-end headsets. This means that it can be difficult to find that comfort sweet spot and, unlike telescoping headsets, you’re stuck with the one size you’ve selected unless you go through the (admittedly easy) process of removing and reapplying the headband. This is no dealbreaker and, indeed, the sizing options are far reaching enough to satisfy a good range of users.
(Image credit: Zachariah Kelly / TechRadar)
The only other thing that irked me on the design front was the microphone. It’s surrounded by a triangular plastic casing and needs to be inserted at the exact angle. It’s not easy if you aren't looking at the port while plugging it in, and it’ll feel firmly inserted even if the jack isn’t making proper contact with the port. This led to some audio technical difficulties on Discord a couple of times, but once you catch it, it’s easy to identify.
The inclusion of a red light on the end of the microphone boom to indicate if you’re muted or not is also a great feature and I appreciated it being there.
Design: 4/5
Should you buy the Asus ROG Pelta?
Buy them if...
You want high-quality sound without the price tag
Sporting the same drivers as the ROG Delta II, you’ll likely be comfortable with the sound achieved by the Pelta.
You’re already in the ROG-o-sphere
For the sake of lowering the amount of peripheral programs on your computer, you may want to skip these if you don’t want Armory Crate.
Don’t buy them if…
You’re an Xbox gamer
Due to the lack of a 3.5mm jack, the Pelta isn’t natively compatible with Xbox consoles.
You’re concerned about it fitting on your head
The three size options may be a bit limiting if you tend to take some time to find the perfect fit for your head.
Also Consider
Asus ROG Delta II
More premium and more expensive, the ROG Delta II might be attractive for its longer battery life, greater comfort and more flashy RGB.
Mostly used for gaming, also used for watching TV and music streaming
From the moment I received the Asus ROG Pelta for review, I immediately got to work testing them. I used the headset across a mix of Windows devices and my Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra phone, but I primarily used them for gaming.
The games I tested the headset with include Marvel Rivals, Avowed, The Headliners, Forza Horizon 5. Across these games, I changed up my audio settings with the ROG Armory Crate app, and used both the Bluetooth and 2.4GHz connections, along with the wired connection. I would play games and watch shows for hours on end with the Pelta headset and often wear them while doing housework and cooking.
The iPhone 16e is a good phone. It has a pleasing design, and it feels like a true member of the iPhone 16 family. It is not a great phone, though – how could it be with a retro notch in the Super Retina XDR display and just a single 48MP camera?
There are 'budget' phones that cost far less and which have larger screens and multiple rear cameras. They're not iOS handsets, and that counts for something – any new iPhone joins an expansive and well-designed ecosystem offering connective tissue between excellent Apple services and other Apple hardware. I mostly live in that world now, and I appreciate how well my iPhone 16 Pro Max works with, for instance, my Mac, and how all my cloud-connected services know it's me on the line.
It's been a while since I've had such conflicting feelings about an iPhone. I appreciate that Apple thought it was time to move away from the iPhone SE design language, one that owed most of its look and feel to 2017's iPhone 8. I'm sure Apple couldn't wait to do away with the Lightning port and the Home button with Touch ID (which lives on in Macs and some iPads). But instead of giving us something fresh, Apple took a bit of this and a bit of that to cobble together the iPhone 16e.
The display is almost the best Apple has to offer if you can ignore the notch, aren't bothered by larger bezels, and don't miss the Dynamic Island too much. The main 48MP Fusion camera is very good and shoots high-quality stills and videos, but don't be fooled by the claims of 2x zoom, which is actually a 12MP crop on the middle of the 48MP sensor. I worry that people paying $599 / £599 / AU$999 for this phone will be a little frustrated that they're not at least getting a dedicated ultra-wide camera at that price.
Conversely, there is one bit of this iPhone 16e that's not only new but is, for the moment, unique among iPhone 16 devices: the C1 chip. I don't know why Apple's cheapest iPhone got this brand-new bit of Apple silicon, but it does a good job of delivering 5G and even satellite connectivity. Plus, it starts moving Apple out from under the yolk of Qualcomm, Apple's cellular modem chip frenemy. That relationship has been fraught for years, and I wonder if Apple had originally hoped to put the C1 in all iPhone 16 models but the development schedule slipped.
The iPhone 16e (center) with the iPhone 16 (right) and iPhone SE 3 (left). (Image credit: Future / Lance Ulanoff)
In any case, while it's hard to measure the connectivity benefits (it's another good 5G modem), Apple says this is the most efficient cellular modem it's ever put in an iPhone (that seems like a swipe at Qualcomm), and helps to deliver stellar battery life: a claimed 26 hours of video streaming. Battery life in real-world use will, naturally, be a different story.
On balance, I like this phone's performance (courtesy of the A18 chip and 8GB of RAM), its looks, and how it feels in the hand (a matte glass back and Ceramic Shield front), and I think iOS 18 with Apple Intelligence is well-thought-out and increasingly intelligent (though Siri remains a bit of a disappointment); but if you're shopping for a sub-$600 phone, there may be other even better choices from the likes of Google (Pixel 8a), OnePlus (OnePlus 13R) and the anticipated Samsung Galaxy S25 FE. You just have to be willing to leave the Apple bubble.
Apple iPhone 16e: Price and availability
Apple unveiled the iPhone 16e on February 19, 2025. It joins the iPhone 16 lineup, and starts at $599 / £599 / AU$999 with 128GB of storage, making it the most affordable smartphone of the bunch. It's available in black or white.
While some might consider the iPhone 16e to be the successor to the iPhone SE 3, it has little in common with that device. In particular, that was a $429 phone. At $599, Apple might be stretching the definition of budget, but it is $200 cheaper than the base iPhone 16. The phone's price compares somewhat less favorably outside the iOS sphere. The OnePlus 13R for instance is a 6.7-inch handset with three cameras, and the Google Pixel 8a matches the iPhone 16e's 6.1-inch screen size (though at a lower resolution), but also includes two rear cameras.
You won't find more affordable new phones in the iOS space. The iPhone 15 has the main and ultra-wide camera and the Dynamic Island, but it costs $699 / £699 / AU$1,249. A refurbished iPhone 14 costs $529, but neither it nor the iPhone 15 supports Apple Intelligence.
Value score: 4/5
Apple iPhone 16: Specs
Apple iPhone 16e: Design
No trace of the iPhone SE design remains
Hybrid iPhone 14/15 design
Sharper edges than the current iPhone 16 design
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(Image credit: Future / Lance Ulanoff)
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There's no question that the iPhone 16e is a part of the iPhone 16 family. At a glance, especially when the screen is off, it's almost a dead ringer for the base model; the aerospace aluminum fame is only slightly smaller.
Upon closer examination, those similarities recede, and I can see the myriad differences that make this a true hybrid design. This is now the only iPhone with a single camera, which almost looks a little lonely on the matte glass back. The edges of the metal band that wraps around the body are noticeably sharper than those of any other iPhone 16, but the phone still feels good in the hand.
The button configuration is essentially what you'd find on an iPhone 15. There's the power / sleep / Siri button on the right, and on the left are the two volume buttons and the Action button. Unlike the rest of the iPhone 16 lineup the 16e doesn't get the Camera Control, but at least the Action button is configurable, so you can set it to activate the camera or toggle the Flashlight, Silent Mode, Voice Memo, and more. I set mine to launch Visual Intelligence, an Apple Intelligence feature: you press and hold the Action button once to open it, and press again to grab a photo, and then you can select on-screen if you want ChatGPT or Google Search to handle the query. Apple Intelligence can also analyze the image directly and identify the subject.
The phone is iP68 rated to handle water and dust, including a dunk in six meters of water for 30 minutes. The screen is protected with a Ceramic Shield to better protect it from drops, though I'm not sure it does much to prevent scratches.
I put a case on the phone, never dropped it, and handled it gingerly, and yet within a day I noticed a long scratch on the screen, although I have no recollection of brushing the display against anything. I had a similar situation with the Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra; I await the phone that can handle life in my pocket (empty other than the phone) without sustaining a scratch.
Overall, if you like the looks of the iPhone 16 lineup (or even the iPhone 14 and 15 lineups) the iPhone 16e will not disappoint.
Design score: 4 / 5
Apple iPhone 16e: Display
Almost Apple's best smartphone display
The notch is back
The bezels are a little bigger
(Image credit: Future / Lance Ulanoff)
If you're coming from the iPhone SE to the iPhone 16E, you're in for quite a shock. This 6.1-inch Super Retina XDR OLED screen is nothing like the 4.7-inch LCD display on that now-retired design.
The iPhone 16e features a lovely edge-to-edge design – with slightly larger bezels than you'll find on other iPhone 16 phones – that leaves no room for the dearly departed Touch ID Home button. Instead, this phone adopts the Face ID biometric security, which is, as far as I'm concerned, probably the best smartphone face recognition in the business. Face ID lives in the TrueDepth camera system notch, which also accommodates, among other things, the 12MP front-facing camera, microphone, and proximity sensor.
While I never had a big problem with the notch, I can't say I'm thrilled to see it return here. The rest of the iPhone 16 lineup features the versatile Dynamic Island, which I think most would agree is preferable to this cutout.
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The iPhone 16e (left) next to the iPhone SE 3 (middle), and the iPhone 16. (Image credit: Future / Lance Ulanoff)
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(Image credit: Future / Lance Ulanoff)
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(Image credit: Future / Lance Ulanoff)
The iPhone 16e shares the iPhone 16's 460ppi resolution, but it does lose a few pixels (2532 x 1170 versus 2556 x 1179 for the iPhone 16). It still supports True Tone, Wide color (P3), and a 2,000,000:1 contrast ratio. The only area where it loses a bit of oomph is on the brightness front. Peak brightness for HDR content is 1,200 nits, and all other content is 800nits. The iPhone 16's peak outdoor brightness is 2,000 nits. As with other non-pro models, the refresh rate on the iPhone 16e sits at a fixed 60Hz.
Even so, I had no trouble viewing the iPhone 16e screen in a wide variety of lighting situations, and any shortcomings are only evident in the brightest, direct sunlight.
In day-to-day use, everything from photos and video to AAA games, apps, and websites looks great on this display. Colors are bright and punchy, and the blacks are inky. I'm not distracted by the notch on games, where it can cut a bit into the gameplay view, and most video streaming defaults to a letterbox format that steers clear of it, with black bars on the left and right sides of the screen.
Display score: 4 / 5
Apple iPhone 16e: Software and Apple Intelligence
iOS 18 is a rich and well-thought-out platform
Apple Intelligence has some impressive features, but we await the Siri of our dreams
Mail and photo redesigns leave something to be desired
iOS 18 is now smarter, more proactive, and more customizable than ever before. I can transform every app icon from 'Light' to 'Tinted' (monochromatic), fill my home screen with widgets, and expand them until they almost fill the screen. This customizability carries through to the Control Center, which is now a multi-page affair that I can leave alone, or completely reorganize so the tools I care about are available with a quick swipe down from the upper-right corner.
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(Image credit: Future)
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(Image credit: Future)
Apple Intelligence, which Apple unveiled last June, is growing in prominence and utility. It lives across apps like Messages and Email in Writing Tools, which is a bit buried so I often forget it exists. It's in notification summaries that can be useful for at-a-glance action but which are sometimes a bit confusing, and in image-generation tools like Image Playground and Genmojis.
It's also in Visual intelligence, which, as have it set up, gives me one-button access to ChatGPT and Google Search.
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Apple Intelligence Clean Up does an excellent job of removing those big lights (Image credit: Future / Lance Ulanoff)
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See? (Image credit: Future / Lance Ulanoff)
I think I prefer the more utilitarian features of Apple Intelligence like Clean Up. It lets you quickly remove people and objects from photos as if they were never there in the first place.
I'm also a fan of Audio Mix, which is not a part of Apple Intelligence, but uses machine learning to clean up the messiest audio to make it usable in social media, podcasts, or just for sharing with friends.
iOS 18 also features updated Photos and Mail apps with Apple Intelligence. I've struggled a bit with how Photos reorganized my images, and I've had similar issues with how Mail is now reorganizing my emails. I hope Apple takes another run at these apps in iOS 19.
Siri is smarter and more aware of iPhone features than before. It can handle my vocal missteps, and still knows what I want, but remains mostly unaware of my on-device information, and feels far less conversational and powerful as a chatbot than Google Gemini and ChatGPT.
Software score: 4.5 / 5
Apple iPhone 16e: Camera
48MP Fusion is a good camera
The front-facing camera shines as well
A single rear camera at this price is disappointing
(Image credit: Future / Lance Ulanoff)
With a more powerful CPU, a bigger screen, and the new C1 chip, I can almost understand why Apple set the iPhone 16e price as high as it did. Almost… until I consider the single, rear 48MP Fusion camera. Most smartphones in this price range feature at least two lenses, and usually the second one is an ultra-wide – without that lens you miss out on not only dramatic ultra-wide shots but also macro photography capabilities. Had Apple priced this camera at $499, I might understand.
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(Image credit: Future / Lance Ulanoff)
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(Image credit: Future / Lance Ulanoff)
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(Image credit: Future / Lance Ulanoff)
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(Image credit: Future / Lance Ulanoff)
Still, I like this camera. It defaults to shooting in 24MP, which is a bin of the 48MP available on the sensor (two pixels for each single image pixel to double the image information). There's a 2x zoom option, which is useful, but it's only shooting at 12MP because it's only using the central 12 megapixels from the full 48MP frame. These images are still good, but just not the same resolution as the default or what you could get shooting full-frame.
Overall, the camera shoots lovely photos with exquisite detail and the kind of color fidelity I appreciate (in people and skies especially) in a wide variety of scenarios. I captured excellent still lifes, portraits, and night-mode shots. I was also impressed with the front camera, which is especially good for portrait-mode selfies. Much of this image quality is thanks to the work Apple has done on its Photonic Engine. Apple's computational image pipeline pulls out extraordinary detail and nuance in most photographic situations, even if it is for just these two cameras.
C1, Apple's first cellular modem, is effective for 5G and satellite connectivity
If you're wondering why the successor to the iPhone SE is not a $429 smartphone, you might look at the processing combo of the powerful A18 and the new C1.
The A18 is the same chip you'll find in the iPhone 16, with the exception of one fewer GPU core. I promise you'll never notice the difference.
Performance scores are excellent, and in line with the numbers we got for other A18 chips (and slightly lower than what you get from the A18 Pro in the iPhone 16 Pro and 16 Pro Max).
The A18 has more than enough power not just for day-to-day tasks like email and web browsing, but for 4K video editing (which I did in CapCut) and AAA gaming (game mode turns on automatically to divert more resources toward gaming). I played Asphalt 9 United, Resident Evil 4, and Call of Duty Mobile, and made things easier for myself by connecting my Xbox controller. My only criticism would be that a 6.1-inch screen is a little tight for these games. The audio from the stereo speakers, by the way, is excellent – I get an impressive spatial audio experience with Resident Evil 4.
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(Image credit: Future / Lance Ulanoff)
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(Image credit: Future / Lance Ulanoff)
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(Image credit: Future / Lance Ulanoff)
There's also the new C1 chip, which is notable because it's Apple's first custom cellular mobile chip. Previously Apple relied on, among other partners, Qualcomm for this silicon. I didn't notice any difference in connectivity with the new chip, which is a good thing – and I was impressed that I could use text via satellite.
(Image credit: Future)
I didn't think I'd get to test this feature, but AT&T connectivity is so bad in my New York neighborhood that the SOS icon appeared at the top of my iPhone 16e screen, and next to it I noticed the satellite icon. I opened messages, and the phone asked if I wanted to use the Satellite texting feature. I held the phone near my screen door to get a clear view of the sky, and followed the on-display guide that told me which way to point the phone. I got a 'Connected' notification, and then sent a few SMS texts over satellite. It's a nifty feature, and it was a nice little test of the C1's capabilities.
Performance score: 5 / 5
Apple iPhone 16e: Battery
Long lasting
Wireless charging
No MagSafe
(Image credit: Future / Lance Ulanoff)
It's clear that Apple has prioritized battery life on the iPhone 16e over some other features. That would likely explain, for instance, why we have wireless charging but not MagSafe support – adding that magnetic ring might have eaten into battery space. The C1 chip is apparently smaller than the modem chip in other iPhone 16 models, and even the decision to include one camera instead of two probably helped make room for what is a larger battery than even the one in the iPhone 16.
Apple rates the iPhone 16e for 26 hours of video-rundown battery life – that's about four hours more than the iPhone 16. In my real-world testing the battery life has been very good, but varied use can run the battery down in far fewer than 26 hours.
On one day when I did everything from email and web browsing to social media consumption and then a lot of gaming, battery life was about 12 hours – gaming in particular really chewed through the battery and made the phone pretty warm.
My own video rundown test (I played through episodes of Better Call Saul on Netflix) returned about 24 hours of battery life.
I used a 65W USB-C charger to charge the phone to 57% in 30 minutes, with a full charge taking about one hour and 50 minutes. I also tried a 20W charger, which charged the phone to 50% in 30 minutes.
Battery score: 5 / 5
Should you buy the Apple iPhone 16e?
iPhone 16e score card
Buy it if..
You want an affordable, smaller iPhone
This is now your only brand-new 'budget' iPhone choice.
You want sub-$600 access to Apple Intelligence
Apple squeezed a A18 chip inside this affordable iPhone to give you access to Apple's own brand of AI.
Don’t buy it if...
You're a photographer
A single, albeit excellent, rear lens won't be enough for people who like to shoot wide-angle and macros.
You never liked the notch
Apple bringing back a none-too-loved display feature doesn't make a lot of sense. If you want the Dynamic Island at a more affordable price than the iPhone 16, take a look at the iPhone 15.
You want a real zoom lens
The 2x zoom on the iPhone 16e is not a true optical zoom; instead, it's a full-frame sensor crop. If a big optical zoom is your thing, look elsewhere.
As soon as you step outside the Apple ecosystem you'll find more affordable phones with more features. The Pixel 8a is not as powerful as the iPhone 16e, but it has a nice build, two cameras, excellent Google services integration, and affordable access to Gemini AI features.
I've reviewed countless smartphones ranging from the most affordable models to flagships and foldables. I put every phone through as many rigorous tests and everyday tasks as possible.
I had the iPhone 16e for just under a week, and after receiving it I immediately started taking photos, running benchmarks, and using it as an everyday device for photos, videos, email, social media, messaging, streaming video, and gaming.
Correction 2-27-2025: A previous version of this review listed Audio Mix as part of Apple Intelligence.
The Gamakay TK75 V2 is a wireless mechanical keyboard that's designed to match the performance of more expensive rivals while being more affordable.
It adopts a retro-modern aesthetic, with a thick, squared-off chassis harking back to more traditional mechanical keyboard designs. However, its pristine white base, combined with some choice colors for certain keys, helps to make the TK75 V2 more appealing, and the RGB lighting adds vibrancy, too.
The TK75 V2 is well built, with every panel of the unit feeling solid to the touch. The PBT keycaps are especially premium, sporting a super-smooth texture, rivaling those adorning the best keyboards.
Many keyboards of this depth usually include a wrist-rest; unfortunately, this isn't the case with the TK75 V2. However, I found it perfectly comfortable to use without one (and I nearly always use one). This is largely thanks to the two-stage feet and the forward tilt of the keys themselves.
The layout is fairly compact, yet the keys are still easy to hit accurately, and Gamakay has managed to squeeze in a volume wheel and a small TFT screen.
This can display information such as battery life and CPU temperatures, and there’s a section for adjusting the RGB lighting. There's a timer, too, which shows how long you’ve been using the TK75 V2 for, which is useful for those who like to keep track of such stats. Note that the screen is quite small and the resolution isn’t the sharpest; but many others don’t fare much better.
Gamakay also provides software to customize the TK75 V2. This offers a pleasing number of rebinding options, with multiple layers that can be switched between using Fn shortcuts. Speaking of which, the stock Fn shortcuts on the TK75 V2 are surprisingly numerous, making it a versatile keyboard.
The software isn’t perfect, though, and it can suffer from slow loading times (unusual for peripheral software) and it did crash once during my time with it. It also lacks some of the more advanced features and functions that gamers would welcome, such as Easy-Shift.
The most positive aspect about the TK75 V2 is the typing performance. The ultra-damped tactile switches in my unit were an absolute joy to use, being super satisfying yet extremely quiet – perhaps the quietest I’ve ever used. For gaming it was similarly adroit, and the switches proved responsive enough for fast inputs.
The connectivity options of the TK75 V2 are impressive as well, with Bluetooth and 2.4GHz options available. With the former, you can hot-switch between three devices using Fn shortcuts. There’s also a wired connection, although the USB port doesn’t appear to offer the most robust physical connection; even so, I didn’t experience any dropouts with it.
The battery life of the TK75 V2 seems reasonable, since it dipped only one bar out of five following a full day of varied use and connectivity modes. However, charging it seemed unduly slow, as it failed to reach full capacity after more than five hours; it’s possible this is something that can be fixed in a firmware update, however.
The TK75 V2 offers a lot for the money: mechanical switches, good build quality, customization software, and multiple wireless connectivity options. Best of all, performance is great.
However, there are even cheaper alternatives available that offer great performance. For instance, the Roccat Magma is great for gaming, and the Keychron C3 Pro offers mechanical switches at a seriously low price. All things considered, though, the TK75 V2 does enough to earn its place alongside the big names in the space.
(Image credit: Future)
Gamakay TK75 V2 review: price and availability
$89.99 / £75 / $AU148
Available now with two switch types
Great value for the spec
The Gamakay TK75 V2 costs $89.99 / £75 / $AU148 and is available now, configurable with either Pegasus (tactile) or Phoenix (linear) switches as stock (although this isn’t permanent, as the board is hot-swappable). It comes with a braided USB-C cable, keycap puller, and spare case screws.
For a wireless mechanical keyboard with numerous wireless connectivity options, the TK75 V2 represents good value. However, if you want an even cheaper mechanical keyboard, the Keychron C3 Pro is one of the best. We found this board’s switches tactile yet relatively quiet, and you can customize it via QMK or VIA; however, this doesn’t offer the level of tweakability that gamers hanker for.
If you want the best gaming keyboard while keeping cost down, then the Roccat Magma is a great alternative. It doesn’t have mechanical switches; but despite this, we still found it delivered a good feel, and offered useful customization options, too.
Value: 4.5 / 5
(Image credit: Future)
Gamakay TK75 V2 review: specs
(Image credit: Future)
Gamakay TK75 V2 review: design and features
Retro yet modern looks
Decent build quality
Useful software
The TK75 V2 has a retro-inspired design, with its thick and square body. However, the bright white shade helps to modernize its look, as do the various keycap colors, which all complement each other well. Combined with the vivid RGB lighting, this is a vibrant-looking board.
Despite appearances, the TK75 V2 isn’t weighty, especially at this price point. The same is true of the PBT keycaps, which feel silky smooth.
The compact layout helps to keep its overall size to a minimum, yet Gamakay has still managed to include a volume wheel and even a small TFT screen. The former operates smoothly, with light notching to provide some useful feedback.
The two-stage feet are also well made, with the mechanisms feeling solid and stable. However, I did find them a little too easy to knock down when moving the TK75 V2 around, but this is a small gripe. A bonus feature is the slot under the left foot to store the included 2.4GHz dongle, which is handy.
The included cable is long, and is unexpectedly shiny, adding some flair to an otherwise drab accessory. It’s much better than the cable included with the TK101, although the physical connection didn’t seem the most secure, as it had a small amount of wobble to it. Thankfully, though, I didn’t experience any dropouts.
The TK75 V2 also includes a TFT screen, which displays various aspects, such as battery life (represented with five bars, not a percentage) and CPU temperature. There’s also a run timer, which is handy for those who like to track their usage. The menu is controlled via the volume wheel, and there’s also a section to adjust the RGB lighting.
(Image credit: Future)
However, the display area is quite small, and the resolution isn’t that sharp – but these are charges you can level at many built-in screens. Where it does fall behind its rivals, though, is the lack of game-specific information, which boards such as the SteelSeries Apex Pro offer.
Despite the lack of dedicated shortcut keys, there are plenty of shortcuts available on the TK75 V2 via the Fn key. These include typical functions such as media playback controls, opening the calculator or file explorer, and switching between connected devices, to name just a few. Unfortunately, none of these is labelled on the keys concerned, so you’ll need the included manual to hand.
The shortcuts can be customized using the Gamakay software, along with individual key presses, which can be remapped to other characters, media controls, system shortcuts, mouse buttons and movements, and combinations with the modifier keys. Unfortunately, though, the volume wheel can’t be customized.
There are eight layers for remapping keys, although layers aren’t available for Fn shortcuts. Also, only three layers can be switched between using Fn and the Z, X, and C keys.
The software also features a macro recorder, as well as a section to customize the TRT screen, with options to draw your own pictures and animations, or upload them from your files.
All these customization options are welcome, but it’s a shame there aren’t more gaming-related tweaks, such as Easy-Shift functionality; and although you can adjust sensitivity of presses, I barely noticed a difference between low and high settings.
What’s more, the GUI isn’t the sharpest, plus you'll encounter loading times as various settings changes take effect, which is unusual for peripheral software. I also experienced a crash on one occasion; but in the main, it ran well enough.
Design & features: 4 / 5
Gamakay TK75 V2 review: performance
Fantastic dampening
Comfortable angle
Useful connectivity options
The TK75 V2 really comes into its own once you start typing. The tactile Pegasus switches in my unit were a delight to use, with an ultra-damped feel, yet still providing plenty of snap and feedback (and if you don’t like them, they’re hot-swappable).
The Cherry keycaps are also relatively thin compared to those on other mechanical keyboards, which I welcome as someone who prefers typing on laptop-style boards. The slight downward slant of the switches was also welcome in this regard. All of the above make the TK75 V2 one of the best mechanical keyboards for typing that I’ve ever used.
What’s more, it’s also one of the quietest keyboards I’ve used, in line with Gamakay’s claim. If you prefer your key presses with more click than thock, then the heavily damped switches of the TK75 V2 might not be for you. However, I wager most will welcome the combination of easy actuation and cushioned impacts.
When gaming, the TK75 V2 performs admirably. There’s enough snap to presses and response times are good enough for most gamers. However, the aforementioned lack of adjustments and customizations specifically for gaming is a shame.
Despite the aforementioned thickness of the body, I didn’t find it uncomfortable to use the TK75 V2 without a wrist-rest, which is fortunate since one isn't included. The feet offer meaningful adjustments, too, which helps to get the right angle.
(Image credit: Future)
The various connectivity modes work well for the most part, and switching between them is quick and easy via the toggle switch. Switching between devices connected via Bluetooth using the Fn shortcuts was similarly hassle-free.
However, even though you're supposed to be able to use these shortcuts to manually switch between Bluetooth, 2.4GHz and wired modes as well, this didn’t work for me – it was only the toggle switch that worked for me.
The battery life of the TK75 V2 seems good: since there’s no percentage provided via the software or the TFT screen, I was unable to gauge depletion precisely; but I can say that after a day’s worth of use – during which I typed and gamed, and switched regularly between Bluetooth and 2.4GHz modes – it only dropped a single bar.
Charging the TK75 V2 via a desktop PC proved disappointingly slow, however. Even after five and a half hours, the keyboard still wasn’t at full power, reaching only four bars out of five. It’s possible this might be a firmware issue, so there’s every chance an update will remedy this at some point.
Performance: 4.5/ 5
Should I buy the Gamakay TK75 V2?
Buy it if…
You want exquisite typing feel This is simply one of the best-feeling – not to mention quietest – keyboards I’ve ever used; if you like soft dampening yet still want snappy performance, it won’t disappoint.
You want multiple connectivity options With three-way Bluetooth switching, a 2.4GHz dongle and a USB cable, you can go between all your devices with ease.
Don’t buy it if…
You want serious gaming pedigree While performance is great, the TK75 V2 lacks more advanced features and tweaks that gamers might want, such as Easy-Shift functionality.
You want a number pad The TK75 V2 is only available with a 75% layout, which might be a deal-breaker for those who want to use it for some serious productivity.
Gamakay TK75 V2 review: also consider
Keychron C3 Pro If you want a seriously cheap mechanical keyboard, look no further than the C3 Pro. It offers great performance, and you can customize it using QMK and VIA. It might not cut the mustard for hardcore gamers, but it’s good enough for most.
Roccat Magma If gaming is your primary concern, but you don’t want to spend the earth, the Magma could fit the bill. We think it’s the best gaming keyboard for those on a budget, thanks to its capable performance and useful features, such as Game mode, which turns the Caps Lock into an Easy-Shift modifier. It might not be mechanical, but at this price, that’s to be expected.
I tested the TK75 V2 for several days, during which time I used it for working, gaming, and general browsing. I tested it on two different Windows 10 PCs.
I spent a lot of time typing with TK75 V2 (including for this very review), and played S.T.A.L.K.E.R. 2: Heart of Chornobyl, a first-person shooter requiring quick inputs and wider key use beyond those in the WASD position.
I have reviewed numerous keyboards in the past, covering models designed for gaming as well as for productivity. I've been PC gaming for more than a decade, and have owned many keyboards from different brands at different price points and with various switch types.
With so many laptops hitting the scene at the moment, Acer has thrown it’s hat in the ring with the Acer Swift 14 AI. This mighty laptop has swept me off of my feet almost immediately and could very well be a contender for one of the best laptops on the market right now.
Boasting a gorgeous OLED screen, I was stunned by the visuals I was getting when watching videos or editing pictures. You also get a great battery life which will last you all day when working and with some juice left in the tank afterwards. While it didn’t live up to the 17 hours claimed by Acer, it came in pretty close at 14 hours. I took some issues with the design because it just felt a bit clunky, but this is something that you likely wouldn’t notice unless you were specifically looking for issues.
Coming in at $1,199 / £899 / AU$1,899 (currently on sale in the UK), this laptop is on the pricier side, with similar alternatives also coming in around this price point. However, when factoring in the sale price, I am genuinely gobsmacked that you’re able to get a laptop of this quality in terms of both hardware and performance, for less than £900 ($1,200).
Acer Swift 14 AI: Price and availability
How much does it cost? $1,199 / £899 / AU$1,899
When is it available? Available now
Where can you get it? Available in the US, UK, and Australia
The Acer Swift 14 AI comes in at $1,199 / £1,199 / AU$1,899, which is definitely not a budget-friendly option when it comes to laptops, however you get some very good specifications for this price point. You can currently pick it up in most regions. It’s on sale at Currys in the UK at the moment, with the Intel edition sitting at a much more affordable £899. On the US side of the map, you can pick it up on sale at Amazon, Best Buy, Newegg, and other similar retailers.
Alternatives on the market include the Asus Zenbook A14, which has similar specs and also features an OLED screen. It sits at a higher price point of $1,399.99, though. Another alternative is the Apple MacBook Air 2024 edition, which features the M3 chip and comes in at $1,199. This makes the Acer Swift 14 AI a great option to pick up while it's on sale, but it’s still decent value when it's not.
Value: 5 / 5
Acer Swift 14 AI: Specs
You can get an Intel or a Qualcomm version of the Acer Swift 14 AI. In the UK these are the same price, however the sale over at Currys only applies to the Intel version, which does make the Qualcomm one more expensive. Elsewhere in the world, you’ll also spend more on the Qualcomm edition as it can deliver more power. All of the rest of the specifications are the same.
As of right now, you can’t configure these specifications, however considering everything other than the processor is identical it doesn’t seem like you’d need to. The Acer website does state that this laptop comes with up to 32GB of RAM suggesting that other configurations may be in the works.
Acer Swift 14 AI: Design
(Image credit: Future / Jasmine Mannan)
When first unboxing the Acer Swift 14 AI, I was somewhat underwhelmed. While it is housed in a high quality and sturdy chassis, it doesn’t have any particular flare in terms of design. It weighs in at 1.28kg (2.82 lbs), which is definitely lightweight, but not the lightest option on the market with the Asus Zenbook 14 coming in at under a kilogram (2.2 lbs).
Something that particularly irked me when using this laptop was the fact that the edges weren’t rounded off properly which made it feel a bit clunky. You’ll also find a slightly thicker bezel around the webcam which again subtracts from the sleekness of the design. However, the Acer Swift 14 AI is 1.49cm (0.59 inches) thick, which keeps it slimline. It’s easy to stick in a backpack or sleeve and take on the go with you.
You get two USB-C ports, either can be used for charging. You also get two USB-A ports which is greatly appreciated. As someone who uses a range of peripherals, whether it be a USB headset, keyboard, mouse or extra monitors, I found there were enough ports for me to use this laptop as part of my workstation, just about. You also get an HDMI port.
The chassis of this laptop is made of metal rather than plastic like some other lightweight alternatives making for a more premium feel. The keyboard is very low profile, making for satisfying key presses. You’ll find that the keys are the same texture as the rest of the laptop too rather than being made from plastic which again contributes to the higher quality feeling.
Design: 4 / 5
Acer Swift 14 AI: Performance
(Image credit: Future / Jasmine Mannan)
Using the Acer Swift 14 AI did feel like a bit of a step down from the Asus Zenbook A14 I just tested, however at £200 less this is to be expected. Using it on the go wasn’t as satisfying as my typical MacBook Air despite it being a similar size and weight, with it feeling more clunky when putting it in my bag.
When booting up the laptop, I was stunned by the screen. The 2K OLED panel is gorgeous and makes for a fantastic experience when watching videos or movies. For creatives who design graphics or video assets, seeing the screen bring your creations to life through color is amazing. With most laptops being able to deliver great performance, they now have to stand out with other features and the OLED screen does a great job of this.
Acer Swift 14 AI: Benchmarks - Gaming laptops only
Here's how the Acer Swift 14 AI performed in our suite of benchmark tests:
3DMark: Night Raid: 36616 ; Fire Strike: 8898 ; Time Spy: 4438
While this laptop isn’t made for intensive tasks, I still put it to the test. Things like basic photo and video editing on Abode Photoshop and Adobe Premiere Pro worked absolutely fine, and while Premiere Pro did feel a bit sluggish, it was by no means unusable. Taxing 3D animation is certainly off the table here but using this laptop for standard everyday productivity is perfectly fine.
I was sure to try multitasking here too, with a range of programs open at once and to my surprise, it functioned quite well even with just 16GB of RAM. Even being in a video call while also creating a PowerPoint and watching a video, the laptop didn’t stutter at all. This felt like a decent upgrade from my old Macbook Air which immediately starts whining when I open a second Chrome tab.
Even when using this laptop on the go, it stayed very quiet which was great. One of my biggest fears is booting up my MacBook on a train and its begins to sound like a rocket taking off, and I never had to worry about that with the Acer Swift 14 AI.
Of course you get the benefits of CoPilot+ with this laptop too but for me this is no longer a standout feature and instead just expected.
Performance: 5 / 5
Acer Swift 14 AI: Battery life
When using the Acer Swift 14 AI in my day to day life I found that the battery life was pretty impressive. It wasn’t a device you could go days without charging by any means, but you could certainly get through a full workday and still have some battery left over at the end of the day.
Acer claim that this laptop boasts 17 hours of battery life and our testing came in pretty close…but no cigar, at 14 hours of continuous video playback - which is obviously not how many people will be using their device on a day-to-day basis.
Battery life: 4 / 5
Should I buy the Acer Swift 14 AI?
Buy it if...
You want a slightly more affordable laptop
Currently on sale to £899 ($1,199), the Acer Swift 14 AI delivers the same performance as higher priced alternativesView Deal
You want good battery life
You can easily work all day and have battery left over. View Deal
You want to be able to multitask
The laptop will happily run multiple programs at once without stuttering or slowing downView Deal
Don't buy it if...
You want something easy and satisfying to travel with
Despite being thin and lightweight, the design leads to a clunky feeling device. View Deal
You want something with a lot of processing power
While this device is powerful, it won’t be able to undertake super intensive tasksView Deal
You want a device you can game on
This laptop is just not made for gaming and while you likely could play some titles on here, they wouldn’t be the best performanceView Deal
Also Consider
If our Acer Swift 14 AI review has you considering other options, here are two laptops to consider...
Asus Zenbook A14
If you’re looking for a premium option that's lightweight and easy to take with you on the go then the Asus Zenbook A14 is the laptop for you. You still get the stunning OLED display and a powerful processor with even better portability. It does come with a slight price tag increase, though.
If you want a laptop that's capable of performing more intensive tasks like 3D Animation or heavy video rendering then the M4 Pro processor in the Apple Macbook Pro is going to help you out more.
I spent two weeks using the Acer Swift 14 AI as my every day laptop for work and leisure. I was sure to use the device all day for my typical work day, and then also watched videos, movies and browsed social media on it in the evenings. I took it on the go with me to different locations where I needed to work to see how it would feel outside of my workstation. As well as using it every day I also benchmarked the laptop using a range of different benchmarking software.
The Gamakay TK101 is a wireless mechanical keyboard with a compact form factor at a reasonable price. It adopts a more retro aesthetic, reminiscent of older style mechanical keyboards. The multicolored keycaps do help to add interest, and their rounded edges are inviting.
They also feel as good as they look since they’re made from double-shot PBT. They have a slight yet satisfying texture, and are more premium than you might expect at this price point. In fact, the whole construction of the TK101 is admirable.
The chassis is quite thick and reasonably heavy considering its small layout. There’s no included wrist rest, though, which is a shame since I had to bend my wrists uncomfortably for most of the time.
While there are various shortcuts you can perform using the FN and other keys, there’s no labelling on the keys themselves for these extra functions, so you’ll have to refer to the manual. What’s more, unlike with many of the best wireless keyboards, there isn’t any customization software, which means more advanced tweaks are missing. This makes it less amenable for gaming, where such tweaks can be important.
The unit I had came with tactile switches, and while I found them satisfying to use thanks to their dampening and lubrication, they are quite heavy, and not as snappy as I would’ve liked for gaming. For typing, I found the MDA profile of the keycaps too thick, as I generally prefer low-profile laptop-style keys. And despite what Gamakay claims, I didn’t find them to be quiet either.
Connecting to multiple devices is easy, and the quick switching shortcuts work well. Up to three Bluetooth devices can be switched between, in addition to devices connected via the included 2.4GHz wireless dongle or a USB cable.
While I wasn’t able to deplete the battery completely during my time with the TK101, after a few days of varied use it dropped to about 50%, which isn’t a very impressive performance.
For the price, the TK101 punches above its weight thanks to its premium construction and hardware. However, I found the tactile switches a little too heavy, and the lack of customization hurts it. If you’re after a keyboard with an even lower price but still has great performance, the Keychron C3 Pro is a great choice, and for something more gaming-orientated, the Logitech G213 Prodigy may be a better alternative.
(Image credit: Future)
Gamakay TK101 review: price and availability
$89 / £76 / AU$150
Available now in multiple colorways
Good price, but some cheaper alternatives
The Gamakay TK101 costs $89 / £76 / AU$150 and is available now in three colorways: White & Grey, Black & Red, and Cyan & Grey. You can configure it with Saturn (linear) or Pluto (tactile) switches, although these are hot-swappable, with Gamakay selling more on their website.
The TK101 is well-priced for a wireless mechanical keyboard with multiple connectivity options. The Logitech G213 Prodigy, one of the best mechanical keyboards, is even cheaper than the TK101, but it lacks wireless connectivity, and while we enjoyed using it, we weren’t hugely impressed with its build quality. It can be customized, though, which may make it better for gamers.
There’s also the Keychron C3 Pro, which is the best keyboard with mechanical switches and a compact layout in our eyes. It’s even cheaper than the TK101, and we were very impressed with the feel of its mechanical switches. But, again, it lacks wireless capabilities.
Value: 4 / 5
(Image credit: Future)
Gamakay TK101 review: specs
(Image credit: Future)
Gamakay TK101 review: design and features
Retro looks
Thick chassis
No software
The TK101 harks back somewhat to traditional mechanical keyboards, thanks to its chunky-looking keys and basic design. It’s certainly not as brash as other gaming keyboards, although the multi-tonal colorways do add elements of interest and vibrancy.
While the 98% form factor of TK101 feels compact, the spacing of the keys is still wide enough for comfortable finger placement. To achieve this, though, dedicated media keys and a volume wheel have been sacrificed.
It’s reasonably thick and heavy, although not as substantial as some other mechanical keyboards. The overall construction is solid, and the mirrored back panel – which frames the USB-C port, power switch and a compartment for storing the 2.4GHz USB dongle – is a nice touch.
The two-step feet are useful, offering meaningful height adjustments to meet individual preferences. These also feel well-made and didn’t create any wobble when propping up the keyboard.
(Image credit: Future)
The rounded double-shot PBT keycaps appear quite thick despite their MDA profile, but they’re comfortably indented and their texturing feels premium, being smooth while offering enough grip. If you don’t like them, though, you can swap them out, along with the switches, as the TK101 is hot-swappable.
While various keys have alternative functions accessible via the FN key, these aren’t labelled, meaning you’ll have to acquaint yourself with the manual. Functions include media playback controls, opening Windows Explorer, adjusting the RGB lighting.
These shortcuts are welcome, but it’s a shame there’s no software for the TK101 to provide further customizations, such as key rebinding and macro creation. Many other keyboards, especially those in the gaming sector, provide such tweaks via software.
What isn’t limited, however, is connectivity. The TK101 can connect to devices wirelessly via the 2.4GHz USB dongle or via Bluetooth. Up to three devices can be connected simultaneously via the latter, which can be switched between by using the FN and number keys. The USB port can also be used for establishing a wired connection as well as charging, which adds to the versatility of the TK101.
Design & features: 3 / 5
Gamakay TK101 review: performance
Nicely damped
Heavy tactile switches
Could really do with a wrist rest
The performance of the TK101 is somewhat mixed. The gasket mounting helps to cushion presses, while the tactile Pluto switches I had preinstalled in my unit were well lubed. However, they felt a little too heavy, offering more resistance than others, which can cause fatigue after a while. If you’re after something more snappy, then these switches probably won’t suit you. However, the MDA profile of the keycaps does at least shorten travel distance.
For typing, though, I still found this profile too thick, as I generally prefer low profile keys for productivity tasks. And despite Gamakay’s claims regarding its sound-deadening design, I found the TK101 quite noisy too.
Most egregious of all, though, is the lack of wrist support, since the aforementioned thickness of the chassis forces your hands to angle sharply no matter how you adjust the feet. This makes gaming equally uncomfortable when adopting the standard WASD position, and also causes your thumb to hit the edge of the space bar rather than the top. Both these issues were remedied when I used my own wrist rest. Combined with its lack of customization options, the TK101 isn’t as capable as the best gaming keyboards.
(Image credit: Future)
I had no problems connecting via Bluetooth or the 2.4GHz dongle, and switching between three Bluetooth devices using the keyboard shortcuts was easy and responsive. However, the manual states that switching to a 2.4GHz connection can also be done via these shortcuts, but this didn’t work for me; only toggling the rear switch did.
I wasn’t able to test the battery to exhaustion, but it dipped to about 50% after several days of varied use, connecting to multiple devices via Bluetooth and the 2.4GHz dongle. This isn’t exactly a stellar performance, and many wireless keyboards do last longer.
Performance: 3.5/ 5
Should I buy the Gamakay TK101?
Buy it if…
You want a well-priced mechanical keyboard You usually have to pay a premium for mechanical keyboards, especially wireless variants, but not so for the TK101.
You want to connect to multiple devices The TK101 can handle three Bluetooth connections and one 2.4GHz connection, with hot-switching between them. Wired connectivity is also an option.
Don’t buy it if…
You want light actuation The Pluto tactile switches I had in my unit were a little too heavy for my liking, which means you won’t get the snappinest performance.
You want to customize Since there's no software for the TK101, you won't be able to remap keys or tweak performance settings.
Gamakay TK101 review: also consider
Logitech G213 Prodigy It might not be a mechanical keyboard, but the G213 Prodigy feels close to one, making it great for gaming. It’s also one of the best budget keyboards around, since it offers plenty of features and some decent typing prowess. It has an inbuilt wrist rest as well – something that the TK101 could really do with. Read our Logitech G213 Prodigy review.
Keychron C3 Pro It’s hard to find a better value mechanical keyboard than the Keychron C3 Pro. The performance it delivers for both gaming and typing is commendable at this very low price point. It even offers customization options via QMK or VIA. Unlike the TK101, though, it’s wired only. Read our Keychron C3 Pro review.
How I tested the Gamakay TK101
Tested for several days
Used for gaming and productivity
Plentiful keyboard experience
I tested the TK101 for several days, during which time I used it for working, gaming, and general browsing.
I did plenty of typing with it, and played Counter-Strike 2, a good test for any peripheral given the game’s demand for fast and accurate inputs.
I have been PC gaming for over 25 years, and have experience reviewing keyboards for both gaming and productivity purposes.
SABnzbd is a free and open-source NZB downloader that simplifies downloading from Usenet with an intuitive, browser-based interface. It runs on Windows, macOS, Linux, NAS devices, and even Docker containers, making it widely accessible and easy to integrate into various setups.
Built on Python, SABnzbd prioritizes flexibility and ease of use, offering a range of automation features and a web-based interface that works across multiple platforms. However, it is not as lightweight as NZBGet, which is written in C++ and optimized for minimal system resource usage. While SABnzbd may consume more CPU and memory, it compensates with an extensive feature set and broad compatibility.
With helpful automation tools like RSS filtering, custom scripts, and integration with popular NZB indexing services, SABnzbd is a favorite among Usenet users. It automatically handles unpacking, repairing, and organizing files, making Usenet transfers easy.
To access Usenet newsgroups with SABnzbd, you’ll need a Usenet subscription. Check out our best Usenet provider guide for our top recommendations.
SABnzbd: Features
(Image credit: SABnzbd)
Cross-platform compatibility: Runs on Windows, macOS, Linux, NAS devices, and Docker, making it easy to install on virtually any system.
Web-based interface: Manage and monitor downloads from any browser.
Automation-friendly: Supports RSS feeds, API access, and integration with automation tools like Sonarr and Radarr.
Smart download management: Handles NZB queueing, prioritization, and automatic retries for failed downloads.
Automatic unpacking and repair: Uses built-in PAR2 verification and unpacks files automatically to save time.
Multi-server support: Allows users to configure multiple Usenet servers for improved reliability and speed.
Extensive plugin support: Works with third-party scripts and add-ons to enhance functionality.
Supports over 18 languages: SABnzbd's web interface is available in more than 18 languages.
SABnzbd: Performance
SABnzbd is a well-optimized downloader capable of handling high-speed Usenet connections with ease. However, due to its Python-based architecture, it consumes more system resources than lightweight alternatives like NZBGet. In contrast, NZBGet’s C++ foundation allows it to run with minimal CPU and memory usage, making it a better option for lower-powered devices.
Despite this, SABnzbd’s robust feature set, built-in queue management, parallel connections, and post-processing capabilities offer an efficient experience. Users with fast Usenet providers will benefit from SABnzbd’s ability to fully utilize their bandwidth.
SABnzbd: Installation and setup
Installing SABnzbd is simple, with dedicated installers for Windows and macOS. Docker, Snap, Flatpak, Ubuntu, Debian, and FreeBSD users can also deploy it easily using images and guides, which can be found on the SABnzbd downloads page.
(Image credit: SABnzbd)
Once installed, the initial setup is guided through a wizard that helps users configure their Usenet server settings, download preferences, and automation features.
Adding Your Usenet Server Settings:
To start downloading, you need to add your Usenet provider’s server details:
1. Open SABnzbd’s web interface in your browser.
2. Click on Servers
3. Enter your Usenet provider’s details, including:
Server address
Port number (typically 563 for SSL, 119 for non-SSL)
Username and password for your Usenet account
Connection limit
Click ‘Save Changes’
4. Click ‘Test Server’ to ensure connectivity.
5. Save Settings: Once the connection is successful, click “Save Changes’ to store your server settings.
SABnzbd: Pricing
SABnzbd is free and open-source, with no fees or premium upgrades. You can download the latest version directly from its official website or the SABnzbd GitHub page.
SABnzbd: Support
The SABnzbd website offers comprehensive guides on installation and configuration, along with detailed step-by-step instructions and FAQs to help users optimize their setup. There is also an active community forum where users can ask questions, share tips and ideas, and receive support from both experienced users and developers.
SABnzbd: Final verdict
SABnzbd is an excellent choice for both beginners and advanced users, thanks to its user-friendly web interface and deep automation capabilities. While it may require more system resources than some alternatives, namely NZBGet, seamless integration with popular Usenet tools and hands-free downloading features make it a reliable NZB downloader.
I'll be frank (you can still be whatever your name is): a lot has changed in the world of Bluetooth audio since May 2019. That's when the Powerbeats Pro 2's forefathers burst onto the relatively new true wireless earbuds scene and promptly cornered its fledgling athletic sub-genre.
The thing is, the wealth of reliable earbuds any of us can pick up now for as little as $20 were inconceivable six years ago, so the Powerbeats Pro 2 arrive as an interesting (quite large, cumbersome even) proposition. If their storied heritage did not exist, we might actually question what Beats was doing releasing a set of earbuds with a large curling tail on one end that does not facilitate open-ear listening, but instead includes a more traditional driver housing and neck for creating a closed seal betwixt its ear-tip and your ear canal.
One might argue that in the past few years engineers have collected substantial data and used it to create concha-fit and droplet-shaped ergonomic driver housings, which means we no longer need arms for our earbuds – even for sports. We might even think it odd for Beats to be pitching such a design at athletes – because other bright sparks have invented open-ear true wireless earbuds in the past four years, and these let us easily hear traffic or our trainer's voice as we work out.
But the Powerbeats Pro 2 get a hall pass for most of this, owing to the love we still have for the then-groundbreaking inaugural Powerbeats Pro. I remember the huge video ad I saw every day at London's Waterloo Station, featuring Serena Williams serving both looks and tennis aces while wearing an ice-white, Wimbledon-friendly set of Powerbeats Pro. Those earbuds – which arrived before the inaugural AirPods Pro and actually, before the 'Pro' suffix became a mainstay of the audio vernacular – soon seemed as iconic as the superstars who wore them.
So we need to be asking not only how the Powerbeats Pro 2 stand up against the best noise-cancelling earbuds aimed at regular users, but also how they compare to the best open-ear headphones that, until recently, were the preserve of athletes. Okay, as a set of 'regular' wireless earbuds, the case you'll be toting around is quite big – not quite coffee coaster big, but close. However, if you're an Apple Music subscriber the head-tracked spatial audio works very well, and the noise cancellation is quite good; neither is as good as what you get with the AirPods Pro 2, but the spatial audio in particular isn't far off.
Slipping them on isn't as quick a job as it is with other earbuds, but once they're on, if security is your main issue with Apple-styled buds you'll be pleased – these Beats ain't going anywhere. Also, at 10 hours from the buds and a further 3.5 charges in the case (for a whopping 45-hour total) the battery life is impressive, although if you're using ANC or spatial audio it's eight hours and a maximum playtime total of 36 hours. For clarity, you'll only get 5.5 to seven hours from your AirPods Pro 2 before they need charging. Not bad, eh?
See the sensor? (Image credit: Future)
However, for a set of sports-focused earbuds that sit inside the ear, a good transparency mode is important, and despite Beats' assurance that this is the most natural-sounding transparency mode in any set of Beats earbuds (with the adaptive algorithm powered by the H2 chip updating over 200 times per second) I've heard many more effective transparency profiles – and simply turning ANC off isn't something I'd advise, since this listening profile adds to the already-slightly tinny issues through the top end, making the soundstage a little too forward and sweet overall.
Price-wise, they're also a little hot and heavy-handed. Despite arriving at the same price as their older siblings, times have changed. You can buy similar designs for considerably less now; you couldn't then.
But stop everything! We need to talk matters of the heart. Because make no mistake, you should feel ready to place your heart in Powerbeats Pro 2's hands here, either via the Health app or your compatible, linked fitness app. Beats told me heart-rate monitoring had been on the company's mood boards for inclusion since 2014, and the feature's debut here is the result of well over four years on the bench with engineers (and subsequently in the ears of over 1,000 real-world athletes for testing).
What I can tell you is that the heart-rate monitor is here now, beautifully implemented in certain third-party apps when linked with Apple's Health app. And because of the pulse readings, the super-secure fit and the excellent battery life, you may be prepared to forgive the few shortcomings I've talked about so far, plus a couple of sonic shortfalls I've yet to get into.
Beats Powerbeats Pro 2 review: Price & release date
Unveiled on February 13, 2025
Priced$249.99 / £249.99 / AU$399.95
How often can a product come in at the same $249.99 / £249.99 / AU$399.95price as its 2019 counterpart and still not be considered great value? Simply put, competition has brought prices right down. These days, $100 / £100 is top-end for inclusion in our best budget wireless earbuds guide, and anything above that goes into mid-range and flagship territory.
For a brief comparison in the world of 'regular' buds, Bose's QuietComfort Ultra Earbuds come in at $299 / £299 / AU$449 and Technics' outstanding EAH-AZ100 are also in the same ballpark, at $299 / £259 / AU$499. Apple's AirPods Pro 2 currently cost around $199 / £199 / AU$349. Sports-focused options often come in a fair way under these kinds of figures (the Shokz OpenFit Air arrived in summer 2024 with a $149 / £119 price-tag for example) although the Bose Ultra Open buck the affordable trend – they can now be yours for a similar $249 / £249 / AU$349.95, having arrived at $50 more than that.
All of this is food for thought, but don't forget that none of the options I've listed above can monitor your heart rate…
(Image credit: Future)
Beats Powerbeats Pro 2 review: Specifications
(Image credit: Future)
Beats Powerbeats Pro 2 review: Features
Heart-rate monitoring is useful – unless you use an Apple Watch
Spatial audio with head-tracking enhances commutes
Disappointing IPX4 splash-proof rating
Let's start with the ticker-taker. It's not a new concept as I've already mentioned – Beats wanted to include it back in 2014 – but it's been a long time in development. The tiny sensor at the helm in Powerbeats Pro 2 (which is derived from the Apple Watch, but is actually 1/16th of the size of the sensor in the Apple Watch Series 10) contains a photodiode, an optical lens, an accelerometer and an LED sensor, but Beats admits that this component "wasn't that minuscule at first". And while the ear is actually a great place to access your pulse, developing a sensor small, light and accurate enough to wear comfortably in a headshell was a "long, arduous process".
Well, it's here now – and if you're not using anything else, it's good. You need to be wearing both earbuds to get a reading, because when you do, that green LED light sensor in each earpiece pulses over 100 times per second, then measures the light reflected back to calculate how many times your heart is beating per minute.
Accessing the feature might seem a little limited or even disappointing at first (there's no juicy 'Heart-rate' bubble in your iPhone Control Center when you click through, as I might have hoped), but this is because the Powerbeats Pro 2 are really meant to only start taking readings when you begin a workout, rather than constantly monitor your pulse throughout the day or whenever you choose to summon a reading. That said, you can dig into your iPhone's Health app, then either tap Browse at the bottom-right then Heart > Heart Rate to call up a live figure, or go to Summary at the bottom-left then Show All Health Data > Heart Rate, to see a graph of your live heart rate. But really, you're meant to be in training and with a third-party fitness app. The only currently supported one I use is Nike Run Club, but once you've linked the app and given the necessary permissions in Settings, it works a treat.
It's worth noting two things: if you wear an Apple Watch while using the Beats, the Watch readings are always prioritized, and secondly, the Powerbeats Pro 2 don't work with Apple Fitness Plus yet (which means no Strava support, i.e., the one I'd really like it to work with). At the time of writing, heart-rate monitoring through the Powerbeats Pro 2 is available in these iOS apps: Peloton, Slopes, Ladder, Open, Runna, YaoYao, and Nike Run Club, so plenty of activities are covered.
If you're on Android, it's different again (and arguably, better). Here, the feature will work with any fitness app that supports heart-rate monitoring; you just need to manually start each training session with a double tap and hold on either earbud.
On both iOS and Android you can turn the feature off in the settings if you don't want it taking readings.
Yes, I love the color so much, I did this… (Image credit: Future)
Now, on to Personalized Spatial Audio with Dolby Atmos and dynamic head-tracking. This is Apple's 360-degree sound tech that adjusts the audio based on the shape of your ears, head, and – if you toggle it on – using your Apple device as a source so the audio has a fixed point of origin (and this moves between each ear as you move your head towards said source device). I really rate this in Powerbeats Pro 2, thanks to the solid fit and seal the design promotes, particularly when listening to more acoustic tracks. Want to hear how good it is? Try listening to Sam Fender's Arm's Length and holding your device at arm's length. Good, no?
The Powerbeats Pro 2 only support lossless audio with ultra-low latency on the Apple Vision Pro, so while high resolution is possible on these earbuds, it's an expensive route – and I do not own a Vision Pro headset (but leave a comment if you've tested it – I'd love to know whether there's a notable uptick in audio quality).
Call quality? It's good: the Powerbeats Pro 2 have a total of six microphones (three per earpiece) and callers throughout my testing said I sounded very clear and, on one occasion, "particularly empathetic". Beats says there's machine learning-based noise isolation tech at play, so callers will hear your voice at its best, aided by a voice accelerometer to detect when you're speaking and thus enhance clarity. What I can tell you is that if you take calls often on your earbuds, you'll be pleased here.
Other notable features include the option to customize what a press-and-hold of the physical 'b' button does on each earpiece (between Siri and noise control functions), automatic ear detection, Find My to locate a lost earbud in iOS (you can select which earbud you'd like to emit a beeping noise if it's around the house, or see where they are on a map) and Find My Beats on Android via the companion app. But there's no U1 chip in the charging case – and no inbuilt speaker as there is in the AirPods Pro 2 and AirPods 4's charging nests, so the case itself is silent. There's also an ear tip fit test that's actually quite picky; I had to adjust to smaller ear tips to get the green light in both ears, even when I personally felt like I had the fit right.
As any AirPods owner will know, there's no multi-point connectivity in Apple earbuds – and that hasn't changed here. You can 'share' the audio you're hearing in your Powerbeats Pro 2 to other Beats or Apple earbuds in the vicinity using Apple's proprietary Share Audio option, but make no mistake, your Powerbeats Pro 2 can only be paired to one source device at a time. You also cannot tweak the EQ on a dedicated tab with the Powerbeats Pro 2 – although on iOS you can go into your iPhone's settings > Apps > Music > EQ to tweak things a little.
Finally (and I'm putting this under 'features' rather than 'design' since any sports-specific earbuds really ought to focus on durability) there's a somewhat disappointing IPX4 rating for the earpieces, and the case is neither water- nor sweat-resistant at all. What that means is that while wearing the buds for sweaty workouts should be fine (the Powerbeats Pro 2 will survive light rain, humid environments and splashes of water), they absolutely positively cannot be submerged in the drink, which seems at odds with their, er… athleticism. And it's not that it can't be done: the Samsung Galaxy Buds 3 Pro earpieces boast an IP57 rating, meaning they'll survive a 30-minute full submersion in water up to a depth of one meter.
Features score: 4/5
(Image credit: Future)
Beats Powerbeats Pro 2 review: Sound quality
Energetic and forward-sounding – almost to a fault
A little tinny in some profiles; beaten by the original Powerbeats Pro for bass weight
Turning off noise-canceling negatively affects the sound
This is not quite the glowing praise that long-term fans of Beats' Powerbeats Pro might have been hoping for. A 3.5-star rating for sound quality is not bad and make no mistake, the sound here is not without merit, but this is a huge and hotly-anticipated seventh-iteration Beats earbuds product and the heavily-leaked follow-up to the iconic Powerbeats Pro, nearly six years on. And I have to do my job: the sound isn't excellent – and not just because only the relatively lowly SBC and AAC codecs are supported (ie. no hi-res audio, unless you're using them with the Vision Pro).
Perhaps in part because the driver is smaller than in the original Powerbeats Pro (a 9.5mm dual-layer driver versus 12mm in the originals) the sound very different, and just a little more constricted. Deploying noise cancellation gives the Pro 2 the best chance to shine, and here, with dynamic head-tracked spatial audio also toggled on, there is separation and a healthy serving of detail in Tom Petty's textured vocal in Free Fallin', with guitar strings grazing each ear and a bridge as dynamically abrupt and agile as I remember. Nevertheless, cue up Gunna's One of Wun and the smouldering track is notably moodier, fuller and more resonant through the low end in both AirPods Pro 2 and my Technics EAH-AZ100. Listen with the Technics and I'm dropped into the mix; switch to the Beats and I'm just a little bit above it, wanting to get stuck into the bass a little more.
The lengthy acoustic guitar intro in Rod Stewart's Maggie May (known as 'Henry' and played by Martin Quittenton) has energy and pep – there's no faulting the Powerbeats Pro 2 for timing across the frequencies – but as the track continues, the forward-focused nature of the Powerbeats Pro 2 rather over-emphasises the keys and mandolin in the upper mids, even making Rod-the-Mod's voice sound a touch tinny. And sadly, things don't improve when you turn noise-canceling off, which appears to heat the soundstage up a notch, as if we're listening on cassette tape. Cue up the transparency mode and it helps quash the marginal sweetness, but during a run I simply didn't feel like enough ambient noise filtered in – and there's no way to tweak the levels of filtering in (or being nixed) here rather than 'Transparency', 'Off', or 'Noise cancellation'.
Sound quality score: 3.5/5
(Image credit: Future)
Beats Powerbeats Pro 2 review: Design
A triumph for security (and for on-ear volume tweaks)
Case is smaller, but still big by today's standards
They take a few seconds to fit – especially if you wear glasses
I've mentioned the slightly disappointing 'only splash-proof' IPX4 rating, so that's out of the way. I've also praised the up-to-45-hour stamina, which is a huge plus. Other than that, there's a lot to celebrate in the design department.
Said design (including the case, which can now charge wirelessly) is quite big by today's standards, but the Powerbeats Pro 2 are only as big as some of the best open-fit earbuds – the kind with the arm that slinks around your ear. In fact, you'd be forgiven for thinking this is an open-fit pair of earbuds given their size, but they're not – and for me, it's one of their biggest strengths.
In 2025, it's a very unusual proposition. Each earpiece also has a physical volume rocker on the bar above the 'b'-branded driver housing and because nothing works as consistently and reliably as physical buttons (maybe you're wearing gloves 'cause you're skiing; maybe your phone's in your kit bag) it's an excellent decision. It also means you're not fiddling with multiple presses of a main multi-function button to switch volume, which, as anyone used to this knows, can often mean unintended track skips or Siri piping up.
And the praise keeps coming! The colorways are excellent (see the 'electric orange' and 'hyper purple' colorways as well as your more standard black and 'quick sand' gray) and despite squeezing in that heart-rate monitor, Beats has made the Powerbeats Pro 2 light, very comfortable and unmovable. I tried to dislodge them during aerial hoop and silks training, spinning upside-down at speeds I've no business attempting these days, and they never even moved. Added to the extra pair of ear tips in the box, to equal five rather than four (the ear tip fit test won't let you off lightly either), they're honestly some of the most well-fitting earbuds I've ever tested.
The only downside to all this security? Fitting them requires a little bit of work and if you're someone who tends to leave the house in a rush, you might find yourself reaching for earbuds you can throw in and go. Unlike open-ear options, you do need to make sure the Powerbeats Pro 2's headshell is properly in your ear, then snake the arm around your ear, then twist everything back towards your crown, to lock it in. I often found myself accidentally pressing playback buttons while doing this or dropping one if I didn't sit calmly to perform these tasks, especially since I wear glasses to look at my screen (and the arms of your glasses sit in the same spot as the arms of the Powerbeats Pro 2, behind the ear). The thing is, if security is your main issue, it's worth it. Ultimately, the design here is still a hit with me.
Design score: 4.5/5
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Beats Powerbeats Pro 2 review: Value
Excellent battery life
Heart-rate monitor is a current USP
Sonically they can be beaten for the money
At $249 / £249, the Beats Powerbeats Pro 2 are not cheap for a sports-focused set of earbuds – and indeed against Apple's AirPods lineup, considering Apple now makes its new AirPods 4 for just $129. But the Powerbeats Pro 2 do contain a ticker-taking sensor no other AirPods can currently boast, and stamina levels that far exceed anything most earbuds can boast.
For me, the design is one of this proposition's biggest strengths; to others, the case may be a little big for the class of 2025. They aren't winning any awards sonically either – but the audio performance is a step up on most of the cheaper, sub-$100 wireless buds on the market when you deploy noise cancellation and dynamic head-tracked spatial audio. As always, it's a matter of priorities.
Honestly, I never thought I'd recommend a product that can't boast top-tier sound. But these earbuds go on for hour after hour, take your heart-rate and feel super-secure in your ears, so here we are…
Value score: 4/5
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Should I buy the Beats Powerbeats Pro 2 review:
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Buy them if...
You need buds for gymnastics, athletics, dancing or training Niche? Maybe. But these earbuds offer the most secure fit I've ever tested in a true wireless design.
You want to track your heart rate (without a watch) The heart-rate monitor is currently an Apple- and Beats earbuds first, and it works very well.
You're willing to pay for better stamina A 45-hour maximum playtime is up there with the best battery life we've ever seen – and it leaves AirPods for dust
Don't buy them if...
Sound quality is king The sound here is a shade under excellent across the frequencies, feeling a little light in terms of bass weight, and a little heavy-handed through the treble
You want an in-app tweakable EQ tab No dice here, friend…
You want to keep your ear canals uncovered Given their larger, sports-focused design and ear 'hook', you'd be forgiven for assuming this is an open-ear design in 2025. But make no mistake, these are in-ear earbuds.
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Beats Powerbeats Pro 2 review: Also consider
Bose QuietComfort Ultra Earbuds Prefer device-agnostic head-tracked spatial audio plus some of the best ANC in the business? These September 2023-issue earbuds from Bose are a great shout – and the in-ear security is nearly as good as the Powerbeats Pro 2. You'll have to forego multi-point connectivity, super-stamina (it's only 6 hours here) and a heart-rate monitor, but you'll get more detail from the sound quality. Read more in our Bose QuietComfort Ultra Earbuds review
Cambridge Audio Melomania M100 The ANC-off and transparency profiles are much more enjoyable here – as is the sound quality generally. You also get a similar battery life and the option of Matt Berry on voice prompts (his "Waiting to pair!" is a delight). The overall aesthetic isn't as striking though, and they aren't as secure in your ears – also you can forget about having your pulse read… Read our full Cambridge Audio Melomania M100 review
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How I tested the Beats Powerbeats Pro 2
Tested for two weeks; listened against the AirPods 4, AirPods Pro 2, Cambridge Audio Melomania M100, Technics EAH_AZ100, JBL Live Beam 3, Bose QuietComfort Earbuds Ultra
Used at work, at home, during aerial training and on a beach in Florida
Listened to Tidal, Apple Music and Spotify on an iPhone 12 Pro, a Sony Xperia 1 V and a MacBook Pro
The Beats Powerbeats Pro 2 became my musical travel companions for two full weeks – after a thorough 48-hour run-in period. They accompanied me while running errands (fast walking; on the London Underground network), at home and throughout a surfing vacation in Florida – although they never joined me in the water (they're not waterproof, you see).
To better test the fit and security of the Powerbeats Pro 2, I wore them during a particularly upside-down aerial silks training session, a lyra (aerial hoop) class and a pole class, and they didn't budge once.
To test the audio quality across the frequencies, I consulted TechRadar's reference playlists (spanning everything from electro-pop to blues) on Apple Music, Qobuz and Tidal, but also to podcasts and albums on Spotify, and YouTube tutorials (mostly about how to bleed car brake pads, in case you were interested) on my MacBook Pro.
I’ve been testing audio products for just over six years now. As a dancer, aerialist and musical theater performer in a previous life, sound quality, the overall user experience and security have always been non-negotiable markers for me – and having heard how effective (and stress-relieving) ANC can be when the anti-phase tech is done well, I have grown to love it.
There are a lot of power banks on the market that seem great on paper, but it can be hard to know how they hold up in the real world. Iniu is one of my favourite brands thanks to very high-quality power banks with great features and a long warranty, but just as importantly, very reasonable prices. That said, when shopping online, the list price is often quite high, but the power bank is typically sold for much less.
The little Iniu B6 offers a lot considering the price tag, with a 10,000 mAh (37 Wh) capacity and a 20W (9V, 2.22A) PD 3.0 output, which will fast charge most phones fully at least once, with enough leftover for other devices or a second charge later on. The B6 measures 13.6 x 7 x 1.5 cm, weighs 210 grams – a better-than-average size and weight for the capacity, making it ideal for slipping into a pocket, purse or bag.
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The B6 has a single USB-C port, as well as two USB-A ports and a large easy-to-read digital display that shows the capacity still available to use. In the box, you get a USB-A to USB-C cable and a carry bag – the latter is a nice inclusion, as the soft-touch coating on the B6 is great to hold but prone to scratches. The soft-touch coating also holds fingerprints and fluff, and I do worry that it might degrade and feel sticky in the future, but so far it's held up well.
The power bank has an LED torch that can be turned on by double pressing the power button. Sure, it’s not very bright, but I've found it very useful for finding lost items in a dark bag. Plus, it will literally run for days – I often use it as a portable night light when travelling. For example, a bit of dim illumination is very helpful when trying to find the bathroom in a dark, unfamiliar hotel room, and avoids needing to turn on the main lights.
The B6 also has a pull-out phone holder that turns the power bank into a stand when charging – also very handy when travelling.
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Iniu B6: Price & specs
Iniu B6: Test results
I conduct comprehensive testing of power banks to make sure they can meet the manufacturer's claims. All in all, the B6 gives excellent results that are well above average – especially considering the price.
In testing, the B6 has excellent voltage accuracy and can output 85% of its rated capacity at 20W (9V, 2.22A) and an even better 91% at 5V. These are very impressive results considering the affordable price. The B6 also supports PPS mode from 5V to 11V at 2A, and 5V to 5.9V at 3A, allowing compatible phones to charge faster and more efficiently. Note that while the B6 is listed as 22.5W, that's at 5V 4.5A (or 4.5V 5A) which isn't supported on most phones.
I first tested this Iniu B6 back in May 2023, and have used it as one of my main power banks ever since. Along the way, I've performed periodic cyclic testing and have not turned up any appreciable capacity loss, so I am very confident that the B6 will last well long term. But of course, it’s worth mentioning (again) that Iniu offers a generous three-year warranty, providing peace of mind if you do have an issue.
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Should I buy the Iniu B6?
Buy it if...
You need an affordable power bank The B6 is one of the best-value power banks available, and is often on sale for even less from retailers like Amazon.The B6 offers features, specs, warranty and test results that are as good as premium power banks.
You plan to charge a phone The 10,000 mAh capacity and 20W output is perfect for topping up small devices when on the go. It’s also just the right size to slip into a bag and not even notice it’s there.
Don't buy it if...
You want to charge a laptop While great for charging small devices like phones, tablets and earbuds, a higher output power bank is a better option for laptops or handheld gaming devices.
You need to charge multiple devices The 10,000 mAh capacity is perfect for topping up a phone, but if you want to charge multiple devices, a larger 20,000 mAh power bank is a better option.
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Also consider
The Iniu B6 is one of the best affordable power banks available, but below are a few other options if you are looking for something different.
Iniu B41 power bank The B41 is slightly slimmer and lighter than the B6, but doesn’t offer fast charging. Still, that’s a perfectly fine trade-off depending on your charging needs.
Iniu B5 20,000 mAh power bank For those who like the look of the B6 but need a larger capacity, the Iniu B5 has the same number of ports and output voltages and amperage as the B6, but has a 20,000 mAh (74 Wh) battery. It includes the same torch, but no phone holder, and measures in at a larger 13.5 x 7.1 x 2.5 cm and weighs 362 grams.
I get hands-on with every power bank I can, and perform extensive testing in both the lab and real-world scenarios. Using equipment like the ChargerLab POWER-Z KM003C, I check charge voltage, protocol support, and log capacity tests.
Each power bank is also tested with real devices, including phones, tablets, laptops, and others, and connected to a programmable load tester for multiple charge cycles. I carry a selection daily in both pockets and bags to assess their durability and ability to withstand rough, everyday use.
All measurements and weights are personally verified, ensuring accuracy beyond the manufacturer’s listings.
