Platform reviewed: PC Available on: PC, PS5, Xbox Series X|S Release date: October 14, 2024
You've seen New World before, sure, but have you seen New World: Aeternum? This soft relaunch of Amazon Game Studio's flagging 2021 MMORPG is what the company is calling a 'spiritual sequel' to the original. In layman's terms, that means next-gen console support, new story campaign cinematics, and a refined controller-friendly combat system that doubles down on the game's action RPG setup.
This is, spoiler alert, mostly the same game as before - but New World: Aeternum already had a solid foundation and the inclusion of console players could potentially breathe fresh life into this game.
Some of the best MMORPGs have been years in the making and Amazon's stubborn dedication to improving its first big MMORPG title is commendable. With a vast game world and diverse array of player versus player (PvP) and player versus environment (PvE) content, there's certainly a lot that New World: Aeternum offers - especially for a fresh player.
(Image credit: Amazon)
Getting it right the second time
New World: Aeternum is in some ways an MMO that’s stronger than the sum of its parts. It is, in a nutshell, an extremely competent and refined effort that skates close to excellence in so many areas yet doesn’t always stand out.
It’s a rework that’s a culmination of three years of tweaks and painfully learned lessons from Amazon. It isn’t, however, a radical departure from what was offered before - you’ve got the same weapons, the same art style, and the same world - with a few exceptions like new cutscenes. In some ways, it’s a little awkward reviewing this title as a new player in 2024.
So, if New World doesn’t stand out - then why is it just so damn fun to pick up and play? There is an intangible sense of fun to New World that makes it both an approachable and incredibly cohesive MMORPG experience. There's nothing new here, but there's something about this game that just works.
For example, there’s an intuitiveness to the open world in New World: Aeternum that makes sense right away. The game’s core gameplay loops of questing, PvP, and gathering all integrate seamlessly into a game world that just begs you to get out and explore. The world of Aeternum is full of trees, plants, and ores ready to harvest and if you don’t find yourself wandering off in search of hemp, herbs, or lumber, then you’re simply missing out on one of this game’s strongest aspects.
Even without the superb gathering and crafting, there’s no doubt that New World is one of the most pick-up-and-play MMOs I’ve played in a long time when it comes to the overall experience. There’s a little bit of something for everyone here - dungeons, player-owned housing, and excellent crafting all wrapped up in a well-thought-out and refreshingly simple manner.
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Your favorite MMO, now with cutscenes
One of the biggest additions to New World: Aeternum is the inclusion of a more cohesive main quest storyline - one that’s now complete with cutscenes, improved world-building, and a streamlined questing experience.
I played through the entire main story quest line for this review and my thoughts are that it’s pretty good but not outstanding. The story isn’t anything mind-blowing but there are decent characters, compelling boss fights with actual mechanics, and a modern quest design that breaks away from the usual MMO tropes of killing ten skeletons and such.
(Image credit: Amazon)
Best bit
(Image credit: Amazon)
Exploring the world of Aeternum is constantly entertaining. You'll be questing, fighting enemy players, and gathering any number of players along the way in a vast and interactive game world. Rarely will you be stuck hanging around in camp.
If you really beeline it through the quest, expect it to take you around 30 hours until you hit the final boss fight - which, I have to say, is rather excellent (no spoilers, sorry). It’s an experience you can completely take on solo in the vein of a single-player action RPG but I’d highly recommend taking the time out to engage with the game’s excellent side-quests, crafting, and PvP aspects along the way. You can play solo, sure, but New World’s strong suit remains the extracurricular activities.
The beauty of Aeternum is in the myriad distractions it offers. Plus, I’d note that while the main quest does introduce you to the vast majority of zones and themes within the game, it doesn’t really deep-dive into PvP, group content, or end-game gearing. You'll have to work those out for yourself or ask a member from New World's vibrant community of console and PC players.
(Image credit: Amazon)
Jack of all trades
As previously mentioned, there’s a wide range of both PvE and PvP content within this game, ranging all the way from basic dungeons and solo world PvP to 10-man raids and 20 vs 20 player battlegrounds. There is, quite simply, a lot of content in New World: Aeternum and it’s all underpinned by a refreshed console-friendly combat system.
With the new combat - it’s a mixed bag but mostly good. As previously stated, New World has a relatively stripped-down action RPG system that encourages movement and dodging rather than providing a piano-like array of spells and abilities. You’re essentially going to be switching through two weapons, both of which have just three abilities on the bar at once. There’s nothing wrong with this (in fact, it’s perfect for controller support), but don’t expect an incredibly in-depth set of abilities to use as per the traditional MMORPG experience.
I gave all sixteen of New World’s weapons a whirl during my playtime and every single one brings something to the table in regard to class fantasy, mechanics, and abilities. Want to bonk your enemies on the head with a giant hammer? No problem. Conversely, you may want to plink at your enemies at a distance with the musket or bow. All weapons are fine choices and offer a diverse range of builds and play styles. I personally like the musket, although I found hitboxes to be frustratingly inconsistent unless I was using the game’s Dark Souls-style lock-on system to track my enemies.
(Image credit: Amazon)
Fans of action-orientated combat will find a lot to like with New World: Aeternum; especially if you’re the kind of person who likes to try different builds. Not only is changing your character’s attribute points incredibly cheap but you’re never locked into one particular weapon or armor type with New World. Don’t hesitate to try out the various weapons and find the right one.
In terms of content, this game is chock-full of stuff that’s readily available to both solo and group players. While a chunk of the high-end PvE stuff is locked behind the maximum level of 65, an easy-to-use matchmaking system means it’s easy to get a group without the need to join a guild or clan. New World is one of the most solo-friendly MMOs I’ve played for a while - and one that respects your time if you’re looking for something relatively casual.
(Image credit: Amazon)
A bland new world
Earlier in my review I alluded to the fact that New World is a perfectly competent MMO but it doesn’t particularly stand out in one area. The PvE? Well executed. The PvP? Yep, that’s pretty good too. There's not one single aspect of New World that really knocked me off my seat during my initial 40 hours of gameplay, however.
If there’s one area where I think New World falls down on, it’s that it lacks a solid identity. All the boxes are ticked here to make an incredibly engaging MMO but nothing feels special in the way that, say, World of Warcraft circa 2004 did.
Take the overall art style and premise, for example. New World is loosely set in the age of sail but Amazon deemed it fit to stuff in as many generic fantasy and historical tropes as it could into the world of Aeternum. One minute you’re fighting pirates, the next minute you’re fighting Roman Legionaries, the next minute ghosts. There’s a lot of variety in the game world but it feels like Amazon just threw together generic historical Assassin’s Creed-like concepts rather than building something with a really cool and unique angle.
There’s no doubt that the development team can design engaging environments and game mechanics but I never really felt that strong sense of class fantasy that you get with some MMOs. The world is a little bland, unfortunately, and New World doesn’t particularly stand out as either a PvP game par excellence or a PvE powerhouse in the way that modern retail World of Warcraft does save its superb crafting and gathering system. Still, this is a good game with an intangible sense of fun and one that no doubt has a solid future should Amazon continue to commit to content updates.
(Image credit: Amazon)
Should I play New World: Aeternum?
Play it if...
You want an approachable MMO New World: Aeternum features an extensive array of content that can be enjoyed both as a solo player and as a group. The barrier to entry for most content is relatively low and the world is also intuitively built around an excellent gathering and crafting system.
You particularly enjoy crafting and professions There's something just really, really fun about New World: Aeternum's crafting system. Exploring the game world for valuable resources, building a camp, and crafting your own gear. There are plenty of professions to explore in New World and they all work together to create a superb in-game economy that's unaffected by the micro-transactions common in other MMOs.
Don't play it if...
You want to push high-end PvE content New World: Aeternum has a 10-man raid at max level but it's not as packed as its competitors when it comes to high-level PvE content. It's a jack-of-all-trades game that's suited to players who value variety over one particular end-game content type. Watch this space though, as raids are a relatively new addition to the game and could be expanded upon going forward.
Accessibility
New World: Aeternum has an extensive list of accessibility features, including text-to-speech, font size scaling, and colorblind modes. It also has some superb aim assist options for both controller and mouse and keyboard setups. All these options are easy to find in the 'Accessibility' menu within the games settings menu.
How I reviewed New World: Aeternum
I played New World: Aeternum for 40 hours before writing this review. That was enough time to play through the entire main story quest line, see most of the zones in-game, and test out the game's PvE and PvP content. While the game is incredibly vast, I made sure to sample most of what New World has objectively before making an assessment.
When it comes to reviewing MMORPGs, I draw upon almost two decades of experience to determine how New World: Aeternum stacks up. Just a few of the titles I've played include World of Warcraft, Guild Wars 2, Black Desert Online, Lost Ark, Eve Online, ESO, and most recently Throne and Liberty.
Built on a zero-trust architecture, it ensures secure access by requiring authentication at each step, minimizing the attack surface. The platform is cloud-native, making it highly scalable and adaptable to modern business needs, which means it's not just a VPN client but a comprehensive security package aimed at businesses and organizations.
Twingate supports device authentication and integrates with single sign-on (SSO) providers like Okta and Azure AD, which simplifies identity management across distributed teams. Besides this, Twingate offers a range of integrations with mobile device management and endpoint protection vendors. You can find the list of their extensive integrations on their site.
Unlike traditional VPNs that rely on a single point of failure, Twingate separates identity, control, and data planes, ensuring higher resilience and security. All user connections are encrypted end-to-end, while user access is granted (or denied) in real-time based on contextual information such as user identity, device security status, time of login, and the user's or device's geolocation. This data is used in conjunction with admin-defined access policies to ensure secure and tailored access control policies.
Speaking of defining policies, all of this is done through the admin console, which is intuitive and features a modern UI. From this web-based management console, admins can get granular, viewing reports and resource usage, and add or remove users. The granularity extends to configuration on a per-use, per-device, and per-resource basis. This allows administrators to enforce strict access controls by applying the principle of least privilege, reducing the risk of unauthorized account access. It also ensures compliance with regulations that mandate higher levels of security for sensitive or privileged accounts.
Twingate tracks all network activity, logging each user's access attempts and providing detailed insights into which resources were targeted. For reporting and logging purposes you can also integrate with logging platforms like DataDog, Elastic, and Splunk for enhanced reporting capabilities. Yet, the platform itself has enough capability for reporting without a need for integrations, unless you have specific needs and requirements.
(Image credit: Twingate)
Pricing & Plans
Twingate offers flexible pricing plans with the entry-level Starter plan costing nothing and allowing up to 5 users and 10 remote networks, making it ideal for small teams or those wanting to explore the platform without a financial commitment. For growing teams, the Teams plan is priced at $5 per user per month, supporting up to 100 users and 20 networks, along with a 14-day free trial and a money-back guarantee.
For larger organizations, the Business plan is priced at $10 per user per month, offering support for up to 500 users and 100 networks. It includes more advanced features such as enhanced integrations and management options, making it suitable for companies with more complex security needs. This plan also ensures scalability, with options to expand as the organization grows.
Finally, the Enterprise plan offers tailored pricing and features based on specific business requirements. Companies interested in this plan will need to contact Twingate’s sales team to create a customized package. The Enterprise plan is designed for businesses with extensive remote access needs, offering the highest level of flexibility, support, and integration capabilities.
Note that if you opt to try out Twingate via the free plan, you will be limited in terms of integrations and DNS capabilities, but all of this is covered in paid plans.
Performance
Due to its design, Twingate offers faster average speeds compared to traditional business VPNs. The maximum and minimum speeds users experience primarily depend on their internet connection. Factors influencing performance include the type of traffic generated, with Twingate using split tunneling to route only business-related data through its network, encryption protocols, and overall network conditions. This ensures efficient data flow and minimizes latency for business activities.
Furthermore, the cloud-based admin console worked to perfection during our test, without any hiccups. We did not experience any slowdowns or crashes.
Privacy & Security
Twingate uses AES-256 encryption and SSL/TLS protocols to secure data transmissions, safeguarding business information from cyber threats. Additionally, it integrates multi-factor authentication (MFA) and single sign-on (SSO) capabilities. The aforementioned split tunneling feature routes business traffic through encrypted “tunnels” while keeping non-essential data flowing through the VPN. Moreover, the fact that Twingate utilizes the Zero Trust approach, means that strict verification protocols require verification of every user and device before granting access, ensuring that only verified entities can interact with sensitive resources.
What’s more, it enables companies to implement the necessary security controls to comply with various regulatory standards such as CPRA, GDPR, PCI DSS, and SOC 2.
Support
Twingate provides support through a ticketing system, messaging, and email. While assistance might not always be immediately available, their comprehensive guides and FAQs are particularly useful for addressing common issues. These resources offer detailed instructions, making it easier to troubleshoot independently. Overall, the written materials and support options can be helpful, but availability may vary depending on your needs and the timing of your request for assistance.
Alternatives
An equally attractive offering can be found with NordLayer Business VPN, which also offers a complete security package, complex security protocols, and a ZTNA approach. We enjoy the UI of NordLayer a bit more, but that is more of a personal preference. However, there are no free plans and you will have to pay a bit more per user. With that, you do get a bit more compared to Twingate though. Its proprietary VPN protocol is quick and secure and you can count on speeds of up to 1Gbs regardless of the pricing plan you go for. It is important to point out that additional features like auto-connect, ThreatBlock, and the Cloud Firewall do set a high bar for the competition, which is why you should consider it if you need more complex security.
Another potential alternative is the Check Point VPN Solution, which is geared more toward larger enterprises that are not afraid to break the bank to get premium solutions. Of course, to be fully covered here, we would recommend going with the hardware + software combo offered by Check Point, since this will ensure you get a ZTNA approach and have access to all of the bells and whistles. The admin console is powerful, with granularity extending from the setup into reporting and across all touch points. While it is powerful, for newer entrants into the field it can be a daunting task to set up the entire system. Pricing is not publicly available, as it depends on the size of your company and the specific needs that you have. But be sure it is not the cheapest solution in the market, but with the offering it has, it cannot be.
Final Verdict
With all that has been said, we can conclude that Twingate is an effective and efficient zero-trust network access solution. If you’re an organization or business looking to secure corporate resources, yet you want to have a remote workforce easily and securely access your resources without causing too much user friction, then Twingate may be the right tool for you.
High granularity, will surely expedite and secure work for organizations in highly regulated industries, which is one area that the company is aiming at. Another benefit is that this complexity doesn’t translate into a complex and clunky UI but an easy-to-use and highly intuitive cloud environment.
Sure, it is not the best option in the market, but it does tick most of the boxes while offering easy scaling which will not break the bank. What’s equally important, you can have your IT department spin up the free version, test out the performance, and see whether it is the right fit for you before deciding to scale up.
NordLayer offers a massive list of features including DNS filtering, network segmentation, dedicated IP, browser extension, smart remote access, and a dedicated account manager - making it one of the most comprehensive business VPN solutions. This multi-layered security approach plays nicely with AWS, Google Cloud, and Azure if you’re looking to integrate it into one of these cloud services.
NordLayer's control panel is highly intuitive, featuring sections for organizing teams, managing servers and gateways, remote access settings, downloads, activity tracking, and device security alerts, making it one of the most beginner-friendly business VPN solutions. From this panel, you can also set permissions and allow network segmentation which is important if you’re looking to restrict access to sensitive data. Network segmentation divides the network into subsections for improved security and performance.
Its Cloud Firewall (FWaaS) offering, brings an additional layer of security, functioning as a cloud security service edge element. Unlike a traditional firewall, the maintenance requirements are low, while its scalability and adaptiveness allow you more flexibility in managing your company’s resources.
If you have a remote workforce, NordLayer has got you covered with a site-to-site networking connection, which basically functions like a secure VPN tunnel between two or multiple networks. There is also Smart Remote Access for the creation of a virtual LAN if you need to grant access to devices on an internal network. An additional interesting feature is the browser extension, which functions as a secure web gateway that allows access to resources exclusively via the browser that has the extension installed and enabled. Moreover, there are desktop and mobile, with both apps designed to be simple and intuitive.
Upon opening, the app presents a list of available servers, allowing you to connect with a single click (though more servers would be a welcome addition). Users can choose between OpenVPN and IKEv2 protocols, and customize features like the kill switch, auto-connect, and ThreatBlock based on their preferences. You can also set up a list of trusted Wi-Fi networks that don't require a VPN. The mobile app offers similar functionality, with the added convenience of automatic server connection. The app’s user-friendly layout and customization options make it adaptable for different preferences and needs, ensuring a smooth experience across both desktop and mobile platforms.
Activity Monitoring reports allow you to get granular with user-level connections that pass through gateways giving you details such as names of the members, devices, and source IP addresses, with activity history and date and time of a particular connection. Device Posture Monitoring further enhances security, where administrators can predefine security rules, and all non-compliant devices are then flagged and removed.
ThreatBlock provides an essential layer of protection by automatically blocking access to malicious websites and ads, shielding employees from phishing attempts and malware. It also filters out intrusive pop-ups and autoplay ads, creating a safer and more productive browsing experience for users.
To round out the feature list, Auto-connect is another feature we found useful. It allows you to set up the VPN to automatically activate as soon as an internet connection is activated. This is often found in personal VPNs, but often rare in business environments, but it can reduce the hassle and worry of employees forgetting to use a VPN.
Pricing & Plans
While not the cheapest option in the market, NordLayer does offer reasonable pricing for the amount of functionality and security you end up getting. The pricing plans are based on a per-user model, with the lowest tier Lite going for $8 per user (yearly subscription option), with a minimum requirement of 5 users which is standard across all plans except the Enterprise offer plan. All pricing plans come with a 14-day money-back guarantee which is great if you’re on the fence and just want to test the product.
(Image credit: NordLayer)
The next plan, Core, is $11 per user and comes with a dedicated server with a fixed IP, but also a $40 a month surcharge for this service. The next tier is Premium at $14 per user and also the same offer for the server. Finally, the Enterprise plan starts from $7 per user, but you will have to reach out to NordLayer to get your custom offer, as it depends on your organization’s needs. Core seems to be the best buy plan covering advanced security such as Biometrics, 2MFA, SSO, and enough bandwidth for small to medium organizations.
Performance
NordLynx tunneling protocol allows NordLayer to deliver fast and stable speeds across their VPN service. In terms of VPN protocols, it supports IKEv2, OpenVPN (both UDP and TCP), and the aforementioned NordLynx which is a fork of the open-source Wireguard protocol. Note that all pricing plans offer up to 1Gbs server performance, which of course will vary depending on the server country you’re using. While mostly equal, there can be some drops in Asian countries, at least during our demo test.
Privacy & Security
The logging policy is right up the alley of any corporate VPN, which means that it does not log visited websites but does log each employee's email address, IP address bandwidth usage, and connection timestamps. The platform complies with GDPR and other major privacy regulations, ensuring data security for businesses operating in sensitive industries.
NordLayer secures internet traffic with modern encryption, offers 2FA via SMS or TOTP, and provides SSO options like Azure AD, Google, JumpCloud, Okta, and OneLogin for employee access, enhancing data breach prevention. In terms of encryption, it uses AES 256-bit and ChaCha20 encryption ciphers, which are fairly robust protocols. Most of the protocol settings are set up as default and we would recommend leaving them as is unless you’re an advanced administrator who wishes to set up a more granular policy. Furthermore, there is a kill switch, which acts as a fail-safe mechanism that prevents data leakage in instances where a VPN disconnects.
Support
NordLayer offers 24/7 customer support through both email and live chat on their website. For self-service, users can access a comprehensive knowledge base that includes guides for setup and troubleshooting. These resources are particularly helpful for first-time configurations. Subscribers to the Custom plan with 30 or more active licenses also benefit from a dedicated account manager, providing personalized assistance tailored to their specific needs. This support structure ensures that users have ample help, whether through self-guided resources or direct communication with NordLayer experts.
Alternatives
Twingate is a competitively priced business VPN solution that, like NordLayer, goes beyond basic VPN functionality to include advanced security features. Although its setup process is slightly more complex, Twingate compensates with a free plan for up to 5 users and 1 admin, making it an ideal choice for small teams wanting to test its capabilities before committing to a paid plan.
Perimeter 81, with its Secure Network as a Service model, offers a cloud-based alternative to traditional hardware firewalls and VPNs. It provides robust security features, including network segmentation and zero-trust access, at a comparable price point. This makes it a compelling choice for businesses seeking flexible, scalable security solutions without the need for on-premise hardware.
Final Verdict
NordLayer is quickly becoming a top choice for businesses with remote and hybrid workforces due to its comprehensive security features. The platform offers military-grade encryption, a robust firewall, and a Zero Trust Network Access (ZTNA) model to minimize risks from malicious actors. We also admire its clean, user-friendly interface, making setup and management intuitive. While it’s not the most budget-friendly option—especially when compared to competitors offering free plans—NordLayer’s pricing is competitive given the advanced security it provides. It's an ideal solution for businesses looking for reliable, scalable protection in a remote-work era, with a robust and secure VPN.
Firewalla’s new Gold Pro is one of the best firewalls money can buy. It vastly improves over the previous generation of firewalls, providing twice as much processing power and memory.
Specifications
CPU: Intel Quad-Core N97 at 3.4GHz
RAM: 8GB of DDR4 3200MHz
FLASH: 32GB eMMC
Display: 1 x HDMI
Ethernet connectivity: Two 2.5GbE, two 10GbE
General connectivity: Two USB3.1, one Type-C console
Power Consumption: About 35W
Size: 218mm x 165mm x 44mm
Weight: 1.1 Kg
Connectivity has also been boosted, shifting to four copper Ethernet with two that support up to 10Gb. The unit consumes over 35W with all ports connected, while a cooling fan makes it less reliable in the long run.
The hardware is really half the story of this user-friendly firewall. The software is as polished as one can ask for, requiring just two steps to activate a feature in most cases. Firewalla is keen on adding new ideas in every software release, with recent features such as Wi-Fi tests. The Gold Pro has become more than a regular firewall; as a router, it greatly demystifies network setup and fine-tuning.
The Gold Pro is available in only one variant: one based on an N97 Intel CPU with 8GB of RAM and 32GB of flash memory. The price is steep, just under $1000 (currently at $899 for a limited time), when looking only at the hardware. Firewalla offers cheaper models, ranging from the lowly ARM-based Purple SE to the Gold Plus based on the J4125. All products carry a one-year limited warranty and unlimited software updates.
Firewalla Gold Pro: Design
The Gold Pro ships in a brown box with a 40W AC adapter and a user guide. The white and yellow metal enclosure measures 218mm x 165mm x 44mm and weighs 1.1 Kg, almost twice as big as the previous flagship device. Four rubber feet prevent the Gold Pro from moving if too much force is applied to Ethernet cables. Air vents and four mounting holes are on each side of the unit, while the back contains one socket for power. The unit becomes warm after a while, but the small internal fan makes no noticeable noise.
The front panel contains four RJ45 sockets, two USB 3.0 Type-A, one USB Type-C connector for the serial console, and one HDMI socket. Two recessed buttons on the right allow users to reset and enter recovery mode or reboot. The front LEDs are for the RJ45, showing linkup speed and activity. The status LED on the right comes alive during the boot process and remains off under regular operation. A USB key, which ships with the unit, acts as a security and Bluetooth dongle and must be plugged at all times.
Under the hood, Firewalla provides an Intel N97 quad-core x86 processor to do all the heavy lifting. It is the only processor available onboard, and all network traffic passes through it. The board includes two 2.5Gb and two 10Gb Ethernet MACs from Intel to connect the CPU to the network. Application memories consist of a single channel 8 GB RAM in SO-DIMM format, which can be expanded to 16GB, and 32GB of flash as an eMMC chip.
The Gold Pro's power consumption varies between 17W and 33W, slightly higher than that of the Gold Plus. The fan turns on when the CPU operates at maximum power and is completely silent, making it great as a desktop unit in an office setting. The unit is entirely RJ45-based, so upgrading to fiber is impossible without an SFP media converter. This somewhat limits the utility of the firewall in a home setting, the software supporting PPPoE while most residential Internet is fiber-to-home and thus cannot be connected directly.
Firewalla Gold Pro: In Use
The Gold Pro turns on with power applied to the box. The Linux boot process takes less than one minute, and an LED on the right lights up to show the progress. The software setup requires scanning a QR code at the bottom of the case into the Firewalla mobile app. An Internet connection is needed on the WAN-dedicated port to complete the setup. The Internet port can achieve speeds of up to 10Gbps, keeping the Gold Pro safe from obsolescence.
The Gold Pro can either work as a standalone firewall or as a router behind a firewall. In the router mode, the unit can assign IPs on demand while inspecting inbound and outbound traffic for threats. VLANs have been included for extra security, allowing different networks to reside on the same physical connection. Applications such as VLANs take full advantage of the CPU upgrade, with the N97 achieving over 100% performance uptick over the previous CPU generation.
Firewalla’s mobile application is polished and avoids intimidating the user with too many technical details. The first panel shows the firewall's health status and warnings about potential threats. The mobile app contains features that can be enabled, such as a Wi-Fi tester, VPN clients and servers, or an Adblocker. The list of add-ons, in addition to the threat list, is updated periodically.
Although not recommended, the Gold Pro's software can be customized by the end user through Docker containers. Commercial applications such as unRaid for NAS or home automation can be installed remotely through SSH.
Firewalla Gold Pro: The competition
A good firewall requires constant updates from a service provider. Firewalla’s propositions are more than just good firewalls with regular updates. They are, in fact, network appliances with features such as VPN and ad blocker. These features bring more responsibility from manufacturers on the testing and prevention side since they have more points of failure and potential vulnerabilities.
Many OEM PCs with two or more 2.5GbE connections require an OS like pfSense to work. They usually have a competitive price since one only pays for the hardware but needs a steep learning curve to build a working system. A mobile app is also non-existent, while the threat database usually depends on the open-source community, which isn’t true for the Firewalla Gold Pro.
Firewalla Gold Pro: Final verdict
The Firewalla Gold Pro outperforms its predecessor in terms of processing power by a factor of two, while its 10G connectivity is beyond what most people have at home. The ecosystem, including the app, cloud and threat update services, and tech support, sets it apart from the competition. The mobile app is one of the best available and will make setting up the unit a breeze. Services such as VPN and Adblocker make life easier at home or in the office.
A price tag of just below $1000 means the unit remains beyond what most people are willing to pay for a prosumer firewall. With four Ethernet LAN ports, the hardware can route packets on four high-speed links at 2.5Gb and over. Finally, the system is user-customizable thanks to Firewalla's willingness to open access to the underlying Linux system through SSH.
Buy the Gold Pro if ... you need 10G speed and a fuss-free mobile app.
Don’t buy if ... you are on a tight budget or if saving power is essential.
As a premium VPN solution, it supports a variety of clients covering Windows, MacOS, and mobile platforms ensuring easy access for remote workforces across all of their devices. Additionally, we should note here that the VPN is tightly integrated with Check Point’s security management platform, tied to other advanced threat detection and prevention tools that the company offers. In simpler terms, the best comprehensive solution can be gained if the entire Check Point package is chosen, since you can get hardware security solutions from Check Point and can easily integrate them into their powerful SmartConsole, an admin dashboard solution.
Features like Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA), Single Sign-On (SSO), and Identity Awareness improve security and ease of use. Furthermore, the Always-ON VPN feature ensures constant security by keeping users connected securely to corporate networks at all times. If you have a need to create temporary users who will be able to access your VPN for a set period of time, you can do so as well. This is ideal for customers visiting your site and needing access to some resources for a few hours or days.
Check Point offers a variety of remote access VPN solutions tailored to different business needs. These include Harmony Endpoint for comprehensive endpoint protection, Endpoint Security VPN for IPsec-based connectivity, and Mobile Access Web Portal for clientless SSL VPN access. Additional options include Check Point Mobile for Windows, SecuRemote, and Capsule VPN for iOS and Android, each designed to provide secure connectivity for remote users.
Pricing & Plans
Though we’re used to enterprise solutions hiding their pricing behind a “must-attend demo session” or directly contacting sales for company pricing, we’re really not fond of this practice. Depending on the number of users you have, you will probably have to choose between one of the mobile access blade tiers. The MOB-U is an unlimited access for unlimited users. The other license levels are MOB-50 and MOB-200 for 50 or 200 concurrent users respectively. The licenses do not stack, complicating the choice.
Recently, the company introduced a cloud comprehensive solution named Harmony Endpoint which among other things, under Access Control offers VPN. The advantage here is that you will not have to worry about licensing or the number of users, and could potentially present a better solution if you need comprehensive security and not just a VPN solution.
Configuration
If you have a Check Point appliance in your company as part of the package, such as the 1530 Appliance, then the configuration of the VPN can be done using the SmartConsole for users accessing resources through the company network. On the left side menu, you will need to navigate to the VPN tab and then, under Blade Control, enable Remote Control and enable SSL VPN. Before you can actually access SSL VPN services you will have to configure them under the SSL Bookmarks section and then add and define the users. Here you can define permanent or temporary users, with the process being manual and time-intensive if you have numerous users to add, as you have to define the user names and passwords yourself.
For PC client configuration, there is a wizard once the package has been downloaded that leads you through the setup. You will have to make sure you know all of the details of your network as there is no auto-filling option, even if the PC is in the business network, which unnecessarily complicates the installation process.
All in all, we would have liked the setup to be more in line with the modern standards set by commercial clients targeting wider audiences; though we do understand that this is a more complex solution that requires comprehensive networking knowledge and experts who are used to setting up corporate networks and protecting resources.
Performance
Quantum VPN excels in speed and stability, ensuring uninterrupted access to business resources thanks to the powerful hardware in the background. The more powerful the gateway hardware, the better it handles increased remote access users. But that’s not the whole story. Both AMD and Intel have added AES encryption features directly into their CPUs, which helps boost VPN performance.
This technology, known as AES New Instructions (AES-NI), allows hardware to handle many encryption tasks more efficiently, reducing the load on software and significantly improving speed and security. This means businesses can support more users with better performance, thanks to these built-in capabilities. Check Point promises AES-NI compatibility (AES-128, AES-256) to be supported by default, ensuring the highest possible performance gains without any hick-ups.
Despite all of this, users should note to optimize the interface affinity by enabling multi-queuing, and check that you have no or low fragmented packet rate to ensure the best performance. Finally, despite the powerful hardware and protocols you still need to ensure that you utilize configuration best practices to guarantee the best performance. With all of that being said, Check Point ranks in the top five enterprise VPNs when it comes to performance.
Privacy & Security
One of the standout features is the IPsec suite. It provides robust security by encrypting data, ensuring that sensitive information is shielded from man-in-the-middle attacks or unauthorized decryption. By leveraging advanced mathematical algorithms and end-to-end encryption, IPsec effectively blocks hacking attempts, keeping data transmissions secure from start to finish.
This powerful combination of security protocols makes it an essential tool for protecting business communications and maintaining privacy in enterprise environments. For the mobile app, this feature is available only on Check Point Capsule VPN for Android or Check Point Capsule Connect for iOS.
Overall, it offers industry-leading encryption, compliance with GDPR, and no-logging policies. Advanced encryption methods protect sensitive data, and integration with Check Point’s broader security suite enhances overall business security.
Check Point actively monitors and addresses emerging VPN threats. In a recent advisory, they urged users to review VPN configurations, highlighting an increase in attacks using weak, password-only authentication. The company swiftly mobilized teams to investigate incidents where outdated login methods were targeted. To enhance security, Check Point recommends disabling unnecessary local accounts and implementing stronger multi-factor authentication methods. They also released a solution to automatically prevent unauthorized access through weak authentication, ensuring customers’ VPNs are better protected against evolving threats.
Alternatives
If you’re shopping for an enterprise-wide solution but are not ready to pay the top dollar, then the first alternative could be Fortinet. FortiClient functions as both a firewall and a secure solution for connecting your devices to a VPN. It allows you to link your entire office on a secure VPN, enabling easy and safe data sharing. With FortiClient, you can access office archives and files remotely, providing flexibility for on-the-go work. It’s a fast and reliable network with minimal maintenance needs, making it a great choice for businesses looking to streamline their remote access and security.
An additional alternative is Cisco’s AnyConnect; which offers end-to-end encryption, ensuring that your data stays protected, while its adaptive security policies help guard against threats. With support for multiple devices and platforms, AnyConnect makes it easy to connect teams and manage remote access securely. Its user-friendly interface and seamless integration with other Cisco security tools make it a versatile alternative thanks to a more streamlined setup process and a clearer pricing structure.
Final Verdict
Check Point Quantum VPN is a high-end solution for enterprises that are best utilized as the entire package combining hardware and software to provide comprehensive, company-wide security. With that being said, you will have to pay much more for such an approach, but you can then be sure you have one of the best solutions on the market. Set up is a bit more complex, but the client-side software (mobile apps) have clean UI’s and are logically laid out and easy to use overall. Moreover, if you’re in charge of backend maintenance through the admin console, you will also be greeted by a modern UI that seamlessly transitions between tabs and provides single-click solutions for most of the configurations.
While it may be overkill for small businesses, it’s a worthy investment for large-scale operations prioritizing security, knowing that you have a reliable partner for company cyber security that stays abreast of new threat development. If you’re on a tighter budget then one of the suggested alternatives could be a solid choice as they provide solid features for less money.
The PlayStation 5 Pro is Sony’s enhanced mid-generation gaming console, and it is categorically better than its PS5 brethren. I’ve spent the best part of a full week with the PS5 Pro now, and have been consistently impressed with its upgrades. Time and again the PS5 Pro has wowed me with incredible graphical quality and wonderfully high frame rates and given me crisper, smoother images and experiences over my base PS5 in almost every game I've tried.
From confirmed PS5 Pro enhanced games, to ‘regular’ PS5 games and PS4 games, and on both a 60Hz 4K TV and 120Hz-capable 4K gaming monitor, I have been blown away by the experience on the PS5 Pro. On a technical level, this is going to be the best way to enjoy the rest of the generation, but there’s a sting in the tail that means that it isn’t quite a slam dunk.
While it delivers on its brief of delivering a mid-gen graphical upgrade - though perhaps not quite to the same degree as the PS4 Pro did when capitalizing on the rise of 4K TV adoption - its graphical boosts, while tangible, aren’t seismic or groundbreaking; certainly not for the vast majority of PS5 players anyway. As such evolutionary-not-revolutionary steps won’t be enough to persuade most.
It also has a price problem which I find frustrating, sad, and baffling in equal measure. At $700 / £700 it is the most expensive Sony home console ever; and this is a mid-generational upgrade, remember - not a wholly new system. It also doesn’t come with a disc drive or a vertical stand which means you’re looking at north of $800 / £800 to even mirror the setup you got originally with a $500 / £450 launch PS5. Considering the PS5 Pro is a premium gaming console and one that will most appeal to PlayStation gaming enthusiasts like myself, it’s hard not to feel disappointed. Pair this with the baffling decision to leave out a disc drive - most enthusiasts are physical media proponents and the most likely to have physical game collections - and the disappointment grows a little more.
The key upgrade is really the convergence of graphical fidelity and performance with games now able to tap into the PS5 Pro’s hardware and features to shine in both ways - at the same time. The wizardry of Sony’s proprietary Playstation Spectral Super Resolution (PSSR) helps enormously in its AI-driven upscaling tech, and the results are glorious. The likes of Horizon Forbidden West and HorizonZero Dawn Remastered, and The Last of Us Part 1 and Part 2 Remastered, truly shine on PS5 Pro and have new performance modes that run incredibly smoothly at high frame rates and have a level of detail you’d be hard pushed to say weren’t a full-fat fidelity mode.
(Image credit: Future)
The boost to ray tracing that’s on offer is absolutely beautiful too. Coming on top of the boosts to fidelity and performance, you can now enjoy some of the best ray-tracing PS5 has to offer in a performance mode, targeting 60 frames per second, which is truly special in games like Marvel’s Spider-Man 2. The boosts to non-enhanced PS5 and particularly PS4 games are harder to discern currently, but the games I've tested show what can be achieved with the PS5 Pro’s hardware.
If you were thinking of upgrading your TV to a 120Hz screen, or have recently got one such monitor or TV, then the benefits of the PS5 Pro grow further still with extra modes in the likes of Horizon Forbidden West that offer even more refined balances of graphics and performance to target super-high levels of fidelity and intermediate frame rates such as 40 frames per second. However folks with TVs that aren't 120hz capable can still get great benefits that I can attest to - the moment-to-moment experience of a game’s Performance Pro (or other similarly named) modes is brilliant and means you'll be getting a wonderful image and resolution and, in effect, making the absolute most of your TV’s 60Hz refresh rate.
The aforementioned PSSR is in many ways the headline act of the PS5 Pro’s upgraded feature set with it being the first AI-driven upscaling tech in a Sony home console, and the results discussed above mean that it has great promise and is offering something impressive already. Combined with upgrades to memory, graphics card, storage, and Wi-Fi, the PS5 Pro does offer more than just a niche graphical upgrade package too.
In particular, the boost to 2TB of storage in the Pro makes a huge difference that would otherwise cost around $100 / £100 to add to any other PS5, while the addition of Wi-Fi 7 for better internet connectivity, is welcome, especially considering the Pro starts off life as a digital console.
From a purely aesthetic view, the PS5 Pro console is immediately cut from the PS5 family cloth in terms of design and build and sports all the aesthetic touches to the ports that you’d want from another PS5 console. Coming in at around the same thickness as the PS5 Slim, and the same height as the launch PS5, the Pro is a curvaceous and pretty slick-looking thing.
The sleek white panels - a matte finish, not shiny like the Slim - are elegant, while the black middle and lines of black fins new on the Pro provide excellent contrast. It offers the same ports as the PS5 Slim too so you’re well covered with two USB-Cs on the front, two USB-As on the back, an HDMI, an ethernet, and the power port on the back. Sadly, those panels are not interchangeable with those that fit the PS5 Slim, and it also doesn’t come with a disc drive or a vertical stand which does seem at odds with its positioning as a premium PlayStation-enthusiast console.
The PS5 Pro is the most complete PS5 package now, but its core benefits and upgrades are a little niche, and the advancements are subtle - not ground-breaking - so it’s not going to be a good value investment for everyone.
If you’ve a keen eye for detail, are a PlayStation fanatic who wants to be at the bleeding edge of the brand’s console and wants the most performant PlayStation console going, or you’re a graphics obsessive who wants the best experience going, or are a PS5 user with a new 120Hz-capable gaming TV or PS5 monitor, then the gaming experiences provided by the PS5 Pro are going to be very tempting indeed. For everyone else, it’s just going to be too expensive.
PS5 Pro: Price and availability
List price: $699.99 / £699.99 / AU$1,199
Does not include a disc drive or vertical stand
Launched on November 7, 2024
Since the day of its reveal, the PlayStation 5 Pro’s price has been a big talking point - and it remains so. Cutting to it, $700 / £700 for a mid-generation upgrade console is steep and makes it the most expensive Sony home console ever. It also comes in at $200 / £220 more than the list price of the PS5 Slim, the current ‘base’ version of the console.
By comparison, the PlayStation 4 Pro launched at the original PS4’s price which felt right - especially given the base console’s simultaneous permanent price drop. If the PS5 Pro’s price had come even a little closer to the PS5’s price ($499.99 / £479.99) then this new console would be seriously tempting, and more so for existing PS5 owners.
The extra sting in the price department is that the PS5 Pro console does not come with a disc drive or vertical stand. The latter Sony has previous form with in regards to the PS5 Slim also not coming with one, but the lack of a disc drive, when positioned as a premium, enthusiast console is a big disappointment - and a bit baffling, despite being offset by some of the other PS5 Pro specs on offer.
A welcome point in this category though is, unlike the PS5 at launch, the PS5 Pro is widely available everywhere at time of writing. PS5 Pro pre-orders briefly sold out at PlayStation Direct on the day they started (September 26), but since then stock at Sony’s own storefront and other retailers has remained steady and readily available.
PS5 Pro: Specs
(Image credit: Future)
PS5 Pro: Design and features
Slick design form and chic new take on the PS5-family aesthetic
Digital console with no disc drive by default
Updated console covers aren’t interchangeable with existing PS5 plates
The overall design of the PS5 Pro is very in keeping with the PS5 generation of console and accessories; a symphony in black and white curves, but done in its own style that’s both fresh and new but also familiar. The white panels are not as shiny as they are on the PS5 Slim, instead having a more matte finish, while the fins that split the console across its middle are pretty striking from a design point of view and one that I really quite like, providing a stylish flash of black across the sea of white.
The form and overall build share features with the original launch PS5 and the newer Slim model, too. The four-sectioned exterior and overall slender form is very reminiscent of the PS5 Slim, while the Pro comes in bigger than that standard console, and is just about as tall as the original PS5. In cold hard numbers, the PS5 is 15.2 x 3.5 x 8.5in / 388 x 89 x 216mm (WxHxD) in size and weighs 6.8lbs / 3.1kg.
In the box, in addition to the console itself, you get a standard DualSense Wireless Controller, a power plug for your region, an HDMI 2.1 cable, a USB-C to USB-C cable for the controller, and all the necessary paperwork.
The PS5 Pro is a digital-only console by default meaning there’s no disc drive included. This needs to be bought separately and applied as you would on the PS5 Slim - fortunately, the Pro is compatible with the pre-existing PS5 disc drive. There’s also no vertical stand included so the PS5 Pro is also a horizontal console by default with the squat version of the detachable legs included in the box.
(Image credit: Future)
The PS5 Pro follows suit with the PS5 Slim by offering two USB-C ports on the front of the console toward the power button, and where the PS5 Pro’s LED lights are too (i.e. not at the ‘flare end’ as on the launch PS5). On the rear, it’s a more familiar situation to those with any PS5 with the power port, HDMI port, two USB-A ports, and an ethernet port finishing the set. The arrangement of the ports is also more in line with the PS5 Slim however, with the HDMI port further up or the left-hand side (depending on your view) compared to the launch PS5.
The shell of the PS5 Pro is divided into four plates - each named after a PlayStation shape to ensure you don’t ever mix them up, and all are removable with a similar level of force as the other PS5s. It is a great shame, however, while the arrangement of the PS5 Pro generally means that the larger lower panels are exactly the same as the PS5 Slim - a fact reinforced by the disc drive’s compatibility - but the smaller, top panels aren’t the same size which is a great shame. I tested this myself to confirm it, so fans who want to adorn the Pro in their choice of colorway will likely have to wait for Pro-specific panels to become available.
Under the console covers, the PS5 Pro has the same PS5 SSD bay that the previous models had and can be engaged with in exactly the same way too as I experienced by installing my Sabrent Rocket 4 Plus SSD during testing.
When you boot the PS5 Pro up, you’ll be greeted by a user interface that is exactly the same as the other PS5 models. It’s a slick and easy-to-navigate setup process as well as a wider layout to move around, and aside from a few more menu options and toggles, it’s identical and will be very familiar to current PS5 owners. If you need to transfer data from a PS4 or another PS5 to get going, then there’s a simple process to do so when first using the Pro.
(Image credit: Future)
PS5 Pro: Performance
Excellent performance blending fidelity and performance simultaneously...
...however, advancements aren't groundbreaking or revolutionary
Supporting specs offer further benefits
The proof was always going to be in the performance and graphics pudding, so I installed a whole host of games on the PS5 Pro and my regular PS5 to compare the differences. So far in my testing, I've seen impressive things in those enhanced games I've been able to run.
The effect of the beefier GPU, and the impact of PSSR is tangible and genuine, and it clearly helps developers enhance their games to offer their definitive versions. It’s an exciting proposition for the remainder of the PS5 generation and I already have high hopes for Sony's first-party studios and games like Marvel's Wolverine, and whatever is coming next from Naughty Dog, et al.
The PS5 Pro allows the Northlight engine in Alan Wake 2 to really shine. Instead of adding any more modes, the game takes advantage of the Pro by offering boosts to its quality and performance modes through increased ray-tracing effects, and increased detail. The boost to both modes compared to my base PS5 was immediately noticeable. Ray tracing, reflections, and lighting are all greatly improved in quality mode, while visual boosts and framerate smoothness combine in performance mode.
Horizon Zero Dawn Remastered immediately feels like a game built (well, rebuilt) for PS5 Pro. The moment I booted into the game and started enjoying the cutscenes and getting into the action, I was knocked down by the gorgeous lighting, fabulous reflections, lifelike water and hair detail, and an overall image quality that was stupendous.
This was the case in both games’ ‘Pro’ version of the existing Resolution and Performance graphics settings. Despite the lack of description in the menu as to exactly what was happening in each, I found the Favor Performance Pro to be the best way to enjoy the game: blending the brilliant upgraded visuals and effects with a smooth, high frame rate gave me a brand new experience in Horizon that I’d never had before.
A third setting is available; a Balanced Pro version does exist on 120Hz capable displays that seem to enable the Pro to get higher frame rates than 30fps while knocking only a bit of quality off (so probably a 40fps mode, something made possible, and excellent, with Variable Refresh Rate) to get even more of the best of both worlds should the display be the right match.
(Image credit: Future)
In Horizon Forbidden West, the Resolution and Performance Pro modes remain the same as in the remastered first game, but the Balanced Pro mode is described as very high fidelity at 40fps when playing on a 120Hz-specced display. When playing on my gaming monitor that is HDMI 2.1 capable, this was perhaps my favorite setting of the bunch on both games.
The Last of Us Part 1and The Last of Us Part 2 Remastered are both brilliant too. The games share identical display options and respond and present themselves in the same way. The new ‘Pro’ mode is an absolute dream and now my favorite way to play these games and experience their worlds. This mode renders the game at 1440p, then uses PSSR to upscale to 4K and targets 60fps. The results are spectacular, and I really had difficulty telling the difference between the overall image quality of the Pro mode with the PS5’s Fidelity mode. World details such as foliage, lighting, and reflections are extra beautiful and things like the details on Joel and Ellie’s backpacks are crisper than ever - all while running at a smoother, higher frame rate.
Zipping around New York in Marvel’s Spider-Man 2couldn’t possibly have felt or looked better but here we are - the game is staggeringly brilliant on PS5 Pro. The two settings - Fidelity Pro and Performance Pro are both beautiful on PS5 Pro. The former offers incredible ray-tracing, reflections, and overall sharpness, with a few options to change the intensity of some options which can be altered to gain some performance back.
The latter mode, is also something else, though. Offering a smooth 60fps while retaining the image quality of standard (PS5) fidelity mode through PSSR, it presents an extraordinary combination of graphics and performance - and all ray-tracing features are on by default in this setting.
Not to be outdone by its studio-mate, Ratchet & Clank: Rift Apart is also wonderful to play, and just look at on PS5 Pro. The game features the same two settings as Marvel’s Spider-Man 2 (but one fewer ray-tracing settings, the reflections and interiors) with the Performance Pro mode being a standout once again with all ray-tracing features present and PSSR doing some excellent heavy lifting to create a fantastic image, and experience.
I have taken Demon’s Souls for a quick spin around the block too which is excellent in its dedicated PS5 Pro mode - it’s literally called ‘PS5 Pro’. Comparing it to the cinematic and performance modes that remain in the game, it’s hard to tell the difference between the overall image quality of the former, and the smooth frame rates of the latter in the dedicated Pro mode.
(Image credit: Future)
It’s also worth noting that the PS5 Pro, during the above extensive game testing, doesn't blow as loudly as its mid-gen predecessor - the PS4 Pro - did compared to that generation’s base console. I have found the PS5 Pro to run no louder than the base PS5 at its loudest, and actually quieter a lot of the time.
These are just some of the games I’ve had the chance to test so far - and they paint a special picture looking forward to the full list of enhanced games, as well as those yet to come out. The fact remains that if you're playing a game that’s been enhanced for PS5 Pro, you absolutely will get an enhanced experience - the Pro is noticeably and clearly better, making games look even more stunning and run super fast and smooth, simultaneously. We can now have the best of both worlds, and the results often feel like playing the definitive version of games. This is especially the case if you have a 120Hz-capable display that can unlock any balanced or 40fps modes too - this is the point at which the PS5 Pro’s impact and performance can offer more and be even more compelling.
A note on PSVR 2 games
(Image credit: Future)
Sony has said that the PS5 Pro’s enhanced graphics will boost and benefit PSVR 2 games greatly. However, I haven’t had the chance to test PSVR 2 with the PS5 Pro yet but will be updating this review, as and when I get the chance to fully explore this. Sony's blog post running down the list of enhanced games at the PS5 Pro's launch did include Kayak VR: Mirage, however, so we're hopeful of some tangible benefits to PSVR 2 gaming.
As well as making non-enhanced PS5 games look even better with the hardware giving them a boost, the PS5 Pro does include a new, dedicated boost mode of sorts for PS4 games: you can enable an option to enhance image quality for PS4 games.
The games do look great on PS5 Pro, but I have struggled to really pick out clear differences and upgrades, and have often found myself reaching for highlights and really peering to see what might be different or enhanced. I’ll continue testing this with more PS4 games to see if there’s anything definitive but it’s not quite clear what the setting does right now. I tried this with Doom, Call of Duty Modern Warfare, Infamous Second Son,Dishonored 2, Red Dead Redemption 2, and Days Gone.
The PS5 Pro features a 2TB SSD which allows so much more breathing room in terms of storage. For reference and as an example of what the boost means in real or day-to-day terms, I had 17 games installed - from 11.6GB Astro’s Playroom to the 130GB Horizon Forbidden West - and still had 353GB of space left to use.
There’s also more storage on the SSD by default: whereas the original PS5 only had about 667GB free to use from its 825GB SSD (80% of the drive), the PS5 Pro allows you to use 1.89TB of its 2TB drive, which is 94.5% of the drive. This is excellent and helps to provide a storage situation where you may not even need a PS5 SSD that you once previously did. With 1TB SSDs costing just north of $100 / £100, broadly speaking, this extra capacity upgrade is not inconsiderable.
(Image credit: Future)
Wi-Fi 7 is a welcome inclusion too and I definitely experienced quicker and more stable download speeds and connection to my PlayStation Portal on my home internet. Your mileage may vary depending on the quality of the internet, but it should represent improvements across the board given the upgrade.
The day-to-day gaming performance of the PS5 Pro is, all in, a joy to behold and use in action. PSSR works wonders and provides a brilliant experience by blending the best of fidelity and performance modes. While I have found the upgrades tremendous so far, I also recognize that such changes are largely subtle and aren’t revolutionary - as a result, I can still see most PS5 owners sticking with their launch or PS5 Slim models.
But for folks like me who have a keen eye for detail and performance, the results are terrific and wholly worthwhile. If the new hardware continues to be embraced by devs, the PS5 Pro could set the standard and be the definitive way to enjoy the rest of the PS5 generation - and also hint at where the PS6 could take things when it comes along.
(Image credit: Future)
Should you buy the PS5 Pro?
Buy it if...
You’ve always wanted fidelity and performance modes at the same time in games One key reason the PS5 Pro exists is to prevent folks from having to choose between quality and frame rates - and it absolutely succeeds in offering that with ‘Pro’ performance modes now offering both, in particular.
You want the latest advancements in console gaming tech and ray tracing capabilities The PS5 Pro’s advanced ray-tracing combined with the wizardry of PSSR and its beefier graphics card means the console offers the very latest tech going on consoles - and boy does it show, with all three combining to make superb gaming experiences.
You have got or are going to get a 120Hz TV or monitor for gaming The PS5 Pro on a non-120Hz display still makes games look and play amazing, but if you’ve got or are getting a 120Hz HDMI 2.1-specced display for gaming then the benefits increase and the enhancements get even more tangible.
You’re a PlayStation fan and want the most performant PlayStation console going Simply put, many PlayStation fans will always want the best PlayStation experience that’s available - a totally legitimate position and one that the PS5 Pro offers. Such fans who adopt the Pro will not be disappointed with its performance.
Don't buy it if...
You’d want maximum value from a graphical upgrade While tangible, PS5 Pro’s graphical upgrades are more subtle and evolutionary rather than groundbreaking so the price tag of the Pro is a very hard one to swallow. If you’re hoping for something more groundbreaking for $700 / £700 then the Pro isn’t quite offering that and the better value option is the original PS5 or the PS5 Slim.
You already have a PS5 and are totally satisfied with the experiences it provides If you already have a PS5 Slim or launch model, enjoy the exciting experiences it provides, and aren’t one to strive for higher numbers than those you have already then you can likely skip the PS5 Pro and stay as you are.
Also consider
If you're not totally sold on the PS5 Pro, then here are some other consoles to consider by comparison.
PS5
The PS5 (Slim or launch model) is still a brilliant games console and will provide wonderful gaming experiences. If you’re not a graphics obsessive or someone who desires the most power and capability from their PlayStation console then the PS5 is a brilliant console in 2024.
For more information, check out our full (original) PS5 review, and stay tuned for our full PS5 Slim review.
Xbox Series X
Microsoft’s full-fat current-generation console is a fine machine on the other side of the console divide, and offers its own suite of specs, experiences, and games, especially through Xbox Game Pass. If you’re on the lookout for a home console that will offer the best graphical experience for the enormous game library on this side of the canyon, then this is the machine to go for.
Although rumors of a successor rumble on, the Nintendo Switch is arguably the best handheld home gaming console, which sets it well apart from the likes of the PS5 Pro. If you’d been eyeing up a handheld games console next, rather than a mid-generation upgrade, then the Nintendo Switch is a great option to consider.
Tested for many hours a day for around a week, playing and running a range of games
Compared design, build, features, and performance directly to PS5 Slim and launch PS5
Tested download speeds, transfers, load times, and gameplay improvements
I tested the PS5 Pro for about a week for review. I installed nearly 20 games from both my PS5 and PS4 libraries on it and compared them running on the PS5 Pro to my standard PS5 console. I spent hours observing how the games looked and performed in all modes - and tinkered with settings - on the PS5 Pro compared to the PS5 which allowed me to spot differences between the two consoles.
Comparisons between the models didn’t stop at games, however, as I also compared the PS5 Pro on a physical level to the PS5 Slim and base PS5 launch model, looking at physical appearance, dimensions, weight, footprint, taking console covers off and reapplying them, adding an M.2 SSD, port arrangement, using it both vertically and horizontally, testing noise pollution, as well as observing download and install speeds and testing connectivity through Wi-Fi and ethernet.
I also, simply, used it as my daily gaming platform, playing a variety of games, both single-player and online, browsing the menus and engaging with different settings, moving games and apps from storage locations, and more.
I used the PS5 Pro on both a gaming monitor and TV for testing; the former being an Acer Predator X32Q FS 4K screen that offered a quality screen to test the Pro’s 120Hz capabilities, and the latter being a Samsung Q6F QLED 4K TV, enabling me to test it with a non-120Hz display.
The company hasn’t been around all that long, but this is not Austrian Audio’s first rodeo at the entry point of the wired over-ear headphones market. Its performance credentials are established, but with the Hi-X20 it seems to have decided that it would like its headphones to look as coherent as they sound to sit among the best wired headphones out there. Which can only be a good thing.
The ‘Hi-X’ bit of the model number means ‘high excursion’, and the Hi-X20 use the same 44mm full-range dynamic driver assembly as all the other ‘Hi-X’ models in the Austrian Audio line-up. This, too, counts as an uncomplicatedly good thing.
And when it comes to ‘performance’, the Hi-X20 are all business. From detail retrieval to dynamics, and soundstaging to tonal balance, they’re a confident and very accomplished listen. They unify recordings properly, strike a nice balance between ‘poise’ and ‘attack’, keep momentum levels high and have complete command over rhythm and tempo. Some listeners might conceivably require greater punch from the (nicely shaped, nicely varied) low frequencies that are on offer here, but everyone else can just revel in sound quality that makes the asking price seem a bit like a misprint.
(Image credit: Future / Simon Lucas)
Austrian Audio Hi-X20 review: Price & release date
Released October, 2024
Priced $150 / £120 / AU$250
The Austrian Audio Hi-X20 have been on sale since October 2024, and at a price of $150 / £120 / AU$250 they’re one of the company’s most affordable designs. But while the affordable wired over-ear closed-back design isn’t the most fashionable at the moment, it’s not as if the Hi-X20 are your only choice. Plenty of brands, from FiiO to Sony and many points in between, have a comparable model in their line-ups…
(Image credit: Future / Simon Lucas)
Austrian Audio Hi-X20 review: Specs
(Image credit: Future / Simon Lucas)
Austrian Audio Hi-X20 review: Features
44mm full-range dynamic drivers
12Hz - 24kHz frequency response
Detachable 3m cable
The same high-excursion dynamic driver is fitted to every ‘Hi-X’ headphones in the Austrian Audio line-up. It’s a 44mm full-range number, backed by a powerful ring magnet and lightweight copper-covered aluminium voice-coil. A strong magnetic field, optimal airflow and rapid impulse reaction all combine in the arrangement to deliver, according to the manufacturer, a frequency response of 12Hz - 24kHz.
The Hi-X20 are supplied with a three-meter length of cable for connection to a source. At one end it clicks and twists into a 2.5mm socket on the left ear cup, while at the other end its 3.5mm termination also features a 6.3mm adapter. It’s a useful length of cable if you’re using your headphones in a professional capacity, sure, but it’s a bit much if all you’re doing is domestic listening. A second, shorter option in the packaging might have been nice.
That’s pretty much your lot for ‘features’. Even the most expensive passive headphones tend not to have all that long a list of features, and the Hi-X20 simply have the essentials.
Features score: 4.5/5
(Image credit: Future / Simon Lucas)
Austrian Audio Hi-X20 review: Sound quality
Fast, attacking-yet-controlled sound
Confident, positive presentation
Some listeners will require greater bass presence
Despite sharing the same driver arrangement as every other ‘Hi-X’ model, Austrian Audio has tuned the Hi-X20 to address some perceived issues in the way some of the brand's predecessors sound. Whether or not it has been successful in this endeavour, there’s certainly no getting away from the fact that the Hi-X20 are a persuasive listen and an accomplished product.
There’s straight-edged attack to the onset of sounds, no matter where in the frequency range they occur. The top end is bright and shining, nicely controlled and with enough substance to prevent even the crunchiest treble sounds becoming edgy or hard. The Hi-X20 are speedy in their presentation, and keep momentum levels high in every circumstance.
A 24bit/44.1kHz FLAC of Lamb’s Trans Fatty Acid from Kruder & Dorfmeister’s The K&D Sessions illustrates the point in full. The Hi-X20 fairly motor through the tune, expressing the rhythm confidently and offering a direct, convincing overall presentation. Integration of the frequency range is smooth throughout, and in the midrange there’s a degree of positivity that makes the vocal performance sound assertive and articulate.
At the bottom of the frequency range, the Austrian Audio extract and contextualize just as much detail as elsewhere, and there’s pleasing variation to bass sounds. They’re not without substance, either – although the fleet-footed nature of the sound here means the lowest frequencies can be fractionally slender – if you’re the sort of listener who likes to be pummelled by low-frequency presence, you might conceivably find the Hi-X20 a little on the lean side.
Dynamic headroom is considerable, and the Austrian Audio respond instantly to switches in volume or intensity. They create a large, well-defined and properly organized soundstage, too, and manage to unify even complex recordings into singular occurrences rather than present them as a collection of individual and unrelated events.
Switching to a 24bit/96kHz FLAC file of Nick Drake’s Which Will allows the Hi-X20 to demonstrate their understanding of tone and texture. The acoustic instrumentation and close-mic’d vocal is delivered in an intimate, assured style – not every pair of headphones can make this recording sound as near-field and naturalistic as this, no matter the asking price.
Sound quality score: 4/5
(Image credit: Future / Simon Lucas)
Austrian Audio Hi-X20 review: Design
Neat folding arrangement
Metal headband and hinges
Replaceable ear pads
You don’t ‘design’ headphones, really, certainly not affordable headphones – you ‘build’ them. And so the Hi-X20 look just as you’d expect a pair of affordable over-ear closed-back headphones to look. ‘Design’ doesn’t come into it.
Mind you, at least the Hi-X20 don’t follow the example of previous affordable Austrian Audio models by having far too many colours and textures involved. The HiX-20 are almost entirely black in finish, with only a smattering of branding picked out in red. The plastic that constitute the rear of the ear cup and cover the headband adjustment mechanism feel sturdy enough, and the slow-retention memory foam that makes up the ear pads and sits across the inside of the headband is pleather-covered and comfortable.
In fact, thanks to their 255g weight and some judicious clamping force, the whole experience of wearing the Hi-X20 is comfortable. There’s plenty of headband adjustment available, and the Austrian Audio fold plenty small enough to fit into the small, soft bag they’re supplied with.
Design score: 5/5
(Image credit: Future / Simon Lucas)
Austrian Audio Hi-X20 review: Value
Comfortable, good-looking and acceptably finished
Long cable only minor shortcoming
They’re the best-looking ‘Hi-X’ headphones so far, they’re built and finished to a very acceptable standard, they’re comfortable and they sound great. Maybe the cable is on the long side, but if you can live with this minor shortcoming (and you really ought to), there’s no disputing the value for money the Hi-X20 represent.
Value score: 5/5
(Image credit: Future / Simon Lucas)
Should I buy the Austrian Audio Hi-X20?
Buy them if...
You enjoy direct, revealing sound They have great powers of insight, the Hi-X20, but even more than this they’re an engaging and entertaining listen. It’s a potent combination
You enjoy an understated look Unlike previous Austrian Audio efforts, the Hi-X20 are not showy where colors are concerned – and they’re all the better for it
You intend to listen for hours on end The Austrian Audio are comfortable for the long haul, and their ear pads don’t heat up anything like as quickly as some alternative headphones
Don't buy them if...
You’re a bass fiend Low frequencies are properly represented here, but the Hi-X20 are a whippet of a listen, rather than an XL Bully
You get tangled easily Three meters of cable might be ideal for some users, but the rest of us are going to find ourselves with a lot of cable that’s just in the way
Austrian Audio Hi-X20 review: Also consider
Grado SR80x If you'll accept an open-back design (and one that sits on, rather than over, your ears) there's so much to love sonically about Grado's May 2021-release affordable headphones. The design is Grado's calling card – just don't wear them on the bus unless you want to annoy your fellow commuters. Read our Grado SR80x review for the full story.
Sivga Oriole Another beautiful set of headphones that belie their lowly price tag, this time over-ears and finished in wood. The sound is strong and vivacious too, if lacking in a little of the dynamic nuance of much pricier options. See our Sivga Oriole review for the full story
How I tested the Austrian Audio Hi-X20
Connected to an iFi iDSD Diablo 2 headphone amplifier
With a variety of digital audio file types and sizes
For well over a working week
My reference amplifier (a Naim Uniti Star) has a 3.5mm headphone socket – and so all my testing was done using a (delightfully capable) iFi iDSD Diablo 2 headphone amp connected via UBS-C to an Apple MacBook Pro. And this is loaded with Colibri software in order to play proper high-resolution content, plus less information-rich stuff, too. I listened to music of every style and genre and did all of this for just over two weeks.
The iStorage DiskAshur Pro 3 is essentially an easy way to keep all your digital data safe, whether personal or for business, albeit at a cost. The design is reminiscent of a traditional safe keypad, and the way it works isn't too far removed. Once set up with admin and user passcodes or passwords, you can be assured that the only way back into the ample 2TB of storage is with the correct codes.
The passcode protection is at the hardware level, and iStorage has built the small drive to withstand brute force attempts to access it, both physically and through software. If someone does find a way to hack their way in, then there are options to erase all data if unauthorized access is attempted, essentially meaning that this drive offers one of the most secure data drive options out there.
When it comes to software protection, the drive is safeguarded by AES 256-bit encryption with FIPS 140-3 validation. This security is coupled with a rugged, tamper-proof casing that will help to ensure your data stays safe, although it's also worth pointing out the while this case is tough it isn't waterproof.
Reflecting the drive's security, the build and design all reflect the nature of this SSD. However, in terms of size, it's only slightly larger than other 2TB portable SSDs on the market and shares a similar USB 3.2 Gen 1 connection. This connection enables quoted data transfer speeds of up to 448MB/s, and in our benchmarking tests, the read speeds we registered weren't too far off that mark.
While speed is important, with the drive enabling access at speeds in excess of 400MB/s through our test, this is relatively slow for an SSD, however, that's more than enough for most documents you want to keep secure. With a decent 2TB of storage space, there should be ample room for a business's corporate documents and any other digital data that needs to be kept secure, and there are options for a larger capacity if your budget allows.
It may not be the best portable SSD we've tested when it comes to speeds, but whether it's for business, personal use, or as a drive you'll be taking with you but need to keep secure, the iStorage DiskAshur Pro 3 is one of the smallest and most secure options out there.
iStorage DiskAshur Pro 3: Price & availability
(Image credit: Alastair Jennings)
The iStorage DiskAshur Pro 3 (2TB SSD) is priced at £660. It is available directly from iStorage and includes a semi-hard protective case, USB Type-C and Type-A cables, and a 3-year warranty. The drive is available for purchase in several storage capacities.
Score: 4/5
iStorage DiskAshur Pro 3: Design & build
(Image credit: Alastair Jennings)
The DiskAshur Pro 3's build quality and design completely reflect its intended use as a secure portable SSD. First, the drive's size, at 131 x 83mm x 20.8mm and weighing 257g, makes it ultra-portable and easy to stash in a physical safe if needed. Like other portable SSDs, its small size and weight make it easy to carry, adding little bulk or weight to any bag you might be using. The actual size of the drive is marginally larger than a standard 2.5" portable SSD, although only by a bit, due to the added protection of the case.
Aside from the slight increase in physical dimensions, the main feature that sets this drive apart is the keypad on the front, which has a standard 12-key layout with numbers 0 to 9, along with a shift and lock key. Different key combinations essentially enable you to unlock and access various functions and features.
Alongside the keys are three LED lights that let you gauge exactly what is happening and enable you to set admin and user passwords. It's a very analog approach and enables the drive to be completely independent from the need for a computer, aside from the power draw to the connected device until it's unlocked.
The only other visible physical features are the USB Type-C port on the back, which handles all data transfer, and a Kensington lock, which enables it to be physically secured to a desk with an appropriate cable.
Internally, the drive's construction ensures durability with a tamper-proof epoxy enclosure that prevents physical access, essentially if you try to break it apart the epoxy, as it's removed will inevitably damage the drive. The design also features IP56 protection, which means that drive is dust- and water-resistant, allowing it to withstand more than most.
Design & build: 4.5/5
iStorage DiskAshur Pro 3: Features
The DiskAshur Pro 3 is designed with security as its primary focus, and every feature of this compact portable SSD reflects that. Starting with the physical keypad on the front, it's designed to allow you to enter PINs ranging from 8 to 64 digits in length to gain access. Through the setup process, which is carried out using combinations of button presses, you can protect against brute force lockouts and set self-destruct PINs. You can also enable backlit illumination for the keypad to use in low-light environments. Additionally, the drive allows for different PIN setups, including admin, user, and one-time pass, offering plenty of flexibility in how the drive can be used.
The drive's physical features showcase its security credentials, which are backed by its successful evaluation and issuance of CAVP certificates, which demonstrate compliance with the latest U.S. government computer security standards for cryptographic modules. These CAVP certificates include Library—Certificate A5501, EC Library—Certificate A5502, RNG Library—Certificate A5500, and Entropy Source Certificate E198. Essentially, it meets very high-security standards, including those government accreditations. Further adding to its secure credentials, it features military-grade FIPS PUB 197 validated AES-XTS 256-bit hardware encryption.
In addition to the technology that protects the data, the drive itself is encased in a durable epoxy resin layer, which makes it nearly impossible to remove the drive without breaking it apart. A feature that will appeal to many is the ability to format the drive in native file formats for different systems, including Windows, macOS, Linux, as well as others. You can also configure the drive to be bootable for Linux or other operating systems. To ensure maximum compatibility, the drive comes with a USB Type-C connector, and the protective semi-hard case includes both Type-C to Type-C and Type-C to Type-A cables.
While the drive isn't built for speed, the USB Type-C connection ensures decent transfer rates, with speeds up to 448MB/s. Once set up, there are plenty of options and protections, including a brute force hack defence mechanism that allows 10 consecutive failed attempts to access the drive before all data is erased. For access, you can set up user, admin, and one-time access, with the option for a self-destruct PIN that will erase the full content of the drive if entered.
Looking at a few of the more physical features of the drive, it includes a backlit keypad that can be switched on or off as needed. The keys themselves are made from ultra-robust, wear-resistant epoxy, ensuring their longevity. It's also worth highlighting that while the drive is rugged, it isn't waterproof but is IP65 certified for dust and water resistance.
When it comes to more advanced features, the drive can be configured to be write-protected, allowing the contents to be viewed but not altered or removed. Additionally, you have three encryption options: AES-ECB 256-bit, AES-CTS 256-bit (default), and AES-CBC 256-bit.
The main feature of this drive is security, but speed is also of interest. With SSD technology and an ultrafast USB Type-C 3.2 Gen 1 connection, the speeds are relatively decent, though not groundbreaking. In our benchmarking tests, the drive consistently produced results around 400MB/s read and 250MB/s write. While these speeds would be restrictive for any creative use as a working drive, the fact that it offers a huge 2TB of storage means that, if you have client work that needs to be kept secure, it will still back up your content considerably faster than an HDD, even if it takes a bit longer than a standard SSD.
During testing, the drive was carried around for a week in a backpack along with other gear, though always in the protective semi-hard case included with the purchase. The combination of the case, the robust build of the drive, and the solid-state nature of the SSD meant that this test for durability was handled by the drive with ease, as was leaving it on a table during a light rain shower.
When it comes to write speeds, and considering that this is primarily a secure drive rather than one built for outright performance, transfer rates of close to 400MB/s are decent enough as a storage device and good for a bit of light HD video editing if needed.
On a PC laptop, the drive's performance is solid with no issues. However, on a Mac, the drive can randomly disconnect. In the box, there is a set of instructions that explain how to work around this issue. While for the most part this works, with Apple Silicon and macOS Sequoia, the workaround sometimes required a restart after each time the drive was connected.
The main focus of this drive is security, and in that regard, it is impressive. While for single users the keypad access is simple (essentially functioning like a digital safe), one of the most interesting features is the ability to set up multiple users and one-time users.
This is done through a series of button presses, with confirmation provided by the three lights illuminating in different ways. You follow the instructions, wait for the lights, and proceed. Through various keystroke combinations, you can set up initial admin access, user access, and even one-time access.
This is great for businesses that need to provide sensitive data to their workforce. An IT department can set up admin and user access, and the drive can then be sent out with the content for employees to use. You can, if needed, make the content read-only, so the user can access the content but cannot update it, which is another handy feature.
Additionally, the drive allows you to program one-time access, where a PIN is created and the user can access the drive only once before the PIN becomes void and the drive locks again. It's all very secure, and as long as you take your time to follow the instructions, it's relatively easy to set up.
In terms of security, the way the drive works is quite interesting. Due to the encryption, even when connected, the drive won't do anything. You can check the attached drives, and your computer will show nothing is attach—even if you attempt to access the drive using software designed to decrypt encrypted drives, it remains invisible. Only when the correct code is entered on the keypad does the drive unlock and connect, making it incredibly secure and well beyond any software solution that we have access to.
While the drive may not be the fastest SSD on the market, at 400MB/s it's still fast enough for most tasks. So if you need to use the drive for additional storage for image or video editing, or even for running apps, it will enable you to do so.
In terms of real-world performance, the drive is impressive—fast considering its intended use and, most importantly, exceptionally secure.
Performance: 4/5
Should you buy the iStorage DiskAshur Pro 3?
The iStorage DiskAshur Pro 3 is completely focused on keeping your data safe, and while the drive isn't the fastest in terms of SSD performance, it's still fast enough for most processes. The security level is impressive, and in testing with all the software we had at our disposal, including EaseUS, the drive remained locked and impenetrable. The fact that it doesn't even mount or attempt to mount before the correct code has been entered makes the usual inroads that software allows void. This truly highlights that this is an ultra-secure drive with military-grade encryption, PIN authentication, and a tamper-resistant design. Of course, this level of security comes at a cost, but if you need your files to be secure, then this is the price you'll have to pay.
(Image credit: Alastair Jennings)
Buy it if...
You need ultimate security.
The DiskAshur Pro 3 offers unmatched data protection with military-grade encryption and physical PIN authentication.
You work in sensitive industries.
Ideal for government or corporate users handling highly sensitive data.
Don't buy it if...
You need a high-speed drive.
While secure, the DiskAshur Pro 3 lags behind in speed compared to other SSDs.
You're on a tight budget.
The high price tag may be overkill for casual users or basic backups.
Nextbase is a well known brand name in the world of dash cams, and one of its recent models, the Nextbase iQ smart dash cam, was a real step forward in terms of providing shooting potency along with a bevy of brilliant features. While it’s little wonder that that model currently tops our list of the best dash cams, another impressive recent addition to its lineup is the Nextbase Piqo Dash Cam, which is akin to a ‘Lite’ edition of the Nextbase iQ bruiser.
This is a more basic offering, but that’s not to say it should be overlooked. In fact, anyone wanting a straightforward, non-nonsense dash cam that can capture great video but needs very little effort when it comes to the installation part should certainly consider it. The Nextbase Piqo Dash Cam is keenly priced, and while it doesn’t have a rear screen, which might put some off, the supporting Nextbase app more than makes up for that.
If anything, using the Nextbase Piqo Dash Cam along with the app makes this compact model even more appealing. The other appealing aspect of this model is its dainty form factor. It’s much smaller and lighter than the Nextbase iQ, which means it's barely noticeable when mounted just in front of the rear-view mirror. However, despite its diminutive stature, the Nextbase Piqo Dash Cam packs a reasonable punch when it comes to performance, with many of the same smart features and functions found on the Nextbase iQ squeezed into a more compact design.
The Nextbase Piqo Dash Cam is quick and easy to fit. It can be powered using the supplied 12V plug connector, while anyone wanting a more permanent fixture can buy an optional hardwire kit, which might require professional installation if meddling with car electrics isn’t your thing. Either way, all of the fitting kit is inside the box, including the 12V cable and connector, windscreen stickers, and a tool for pushing the cable behind trim panels.
While the 1K HD version of the Piqo is cheap, and delivers decent video that's slightly better than 1080p thanks to the 2560 x 1080 pixel resolution and 140-degree field of view, the model to go for is the 2K, which boasts 2560 x 1440 pixels and a 145-degree field of view. Price-conscious purchasers will find it more than suitable, even compared to the high-end muscle of the 4K Nextbase iQ. It’s an ideal compromise.
While the Nextbase iQ is an always-connected camera, the Piqo can be simply plugged into the 12V socket, but there are optional pro install cable and the connect cable kits available to unlock advanced features like the smart parking functionality to capture any car park mishaps. Additional smart features are present within the Piqo, but they’re not quite as potent as the iQ’s.
Nextbase has a subscription model which lets users add a customized overlays or ‘skins’ to video clips., with its ‘Protect’ plan feeling like reasonable value for £29.99 per year, or its $2.99 / £2.99 / AU$4.99 per month. There’s a free ‘Solo’ subscription too, which is leaner but still lets users add a single ‘skin’ to video clips. Standard footage still gets the benefit of journey data anyway, with the likes of date, time and speed all shown in a nice typeface at the foot of the video clip.
(Image credit: Future)
Nextbase Piqo Dash Cam: price and availability
The Nextbase Piqo Dash Cam is as easy to buy as it is to install thanks to the worldwide presence of this brand. It can be purchased from the Nextbase website, and from leading online and bricks-and-mortar retailers. There are two versions to consider, depending on your needs. The 1K (HD 1080p) edition costs $129.99 / £99 / AU$199, while the beefier 2K (HD 1440p) model retails for $149.99 / £119 / $299. Even the more expensive model is less than half the price of the Nextbase iQ, which is available from $399.99 / £349.99 / AU$799.99.
Nextbase Piqo Dash Cam: specs
Nextbase Piqo Dash Cam: Design
The main appeal of the Nextbase Piqo Dash Cam is its compact form factor – it's much smaller than the chunky Nextbase iQ, and there are a few other rival dash cam models that are similarly svelte. The Piqo really stands out thanks to its small and lightweight construction, and it's a good-looking device too, with a smooth black plastic main case that comes with the mounting bracket already attached. The design and build quality feel every bit as good as other Nextbase models, but the lightness of the Piqo is striking, especially compared to the Nextbase iQ.
(Image credit: Future)
Inside the box are static sheets for the windscreen. These enable the Piqo to be fixed to the glass without the need for putting the very sticky 3M self-adhesive pad directly on the glass, which is handy if the camera needs to be moved to another vehicle from time to time. A slot for the microSD card is on one side of the case, and a connector socket for the power cable sits on the other. The camera lens sits on the front of the unit, while a circular LED on the back glows or pulses depending on what the Piqo is doing during setup and operation. Power is supplied simply by plugging the camera into a vehicle's 12V power socket, via the supplied cable and adaptor, although as mentioned an optional hardwire kit is available.
(Image credit: Future)
Nextbase Piqo Dash Cam: Performance
The Nextbase Piqo Dash Cam is an ideal option for anyone who wants a dashcam that has the potential to be more helpful than just videoing the road ahead, but equally works perfectly well without unlocking its extra potential if it’s not needed. Considering the cheap and cheerful price point, the 2K model delivers very respectable footage, and worked particularly well during grim and grey autumnal days during testing in the UK. There are compromises, of course, especially when comparing footage to that from the 4K Nextbase iQ.
A variety of footage captured by the Nextbase Piqo Dash Cam revealed that it's very capable, with the benefit of journey data being captured and displayed along the bottom of the footage for good measure. Audio seemed to be less impressive, with an occasional crackle present in test footage, although so far I've not been able to determine if this is something to do with the test car itself or the dash cam unit. It certainly shouldn't be enough to put anyone off buying the Nextbase Piqo Dash Cam.
(Image credit: Future)
Capturing footage is simplicity itself, with a setup process that's pretty much plug-and-play, and which is completed by downloading the Nextbase app (for iOS or Android). The app is impressive, although interestingly, once plugged in the Piqo gets on with recording footage during journeys even if the app setup hasn’t been completed. Anyone who's not bothered with setting up accounts and entering login details might find this appealing, but added value comes from the Nextbase subscription options outlined above.
(Image credit: Future)
A subscription gives you access to extra features like SOS, Guardian Mode, Witness Mode and Smart Parking, albeit in Lite versions compared to those found on the Nextbase iQ. The free Solo subscription offers Smart Parking, Guardian Mode Lite, Witness Mode Lite, access to the Piqo Mobile app and voice control, plus 30 days of cloud storage. Optional kits to turn the Piqo into an always-on dash cam are available, and adding the Protect subscription gets you 180 days of cloud storage and emergency SOS functionality, along with an extra two years warranty.
The Nextbase iQ offers an example of how handy the extra features can be, but the reality is that many budget-conscious dash-cam buyers are looking for a simple way to capture the road ahead, and for such users this is a dash cam that's simple to set up and offers great value for money. In fact, that’s really the essence of the Piqo's appeal: it’s no-nonsense, and all the better for it.
Should you buy the Nextbase Piqo Dash Cam?
(Image credit: Future)
Buy it if...
You want simplicity The Nextbase Piqo is wonderfully quick and easy to set up. It can be plugged in and configured in minutes, with power supplied via a cable from the 12V socket found in the majority of vehicles.
You might want extra features The beauty of this dash cam is its simplicity, but with a subscription upgrade and a constant power supply the Nextbase Piqo offers a wealth of advanced features including parking surveillance.
You love an app Controlling the Nextbase Piqo Dash Cam is best done via the Nextbase mobile app, which is perfect for managing video content and tweaking those additional features if they’ve been configured.
Don't buy it if...
You prefer a rear screen The Nextbase Piqo Dash Cam is a compact model, and as a result there's no rear screen. Setup has to be done in tandem with the Nextbase app, so there’s basically nothing on the camera unit aside from a microSD card slot and power port.
You want 4K video The Nextbase Piqo comes in two model variants, with the cheapest model offering 1K and the slightly more expensive edition boasting 2K video. Both are good for everyday monitoring. However, more discerning video fans might prefer the crispness delivered by the 4K of the premium Nextbase iQ.
You want to avoid a subscription To get the best from the Nextbase Piqo you'll want to take out a subscription. The paid option costs £29.99 per year, and offers more functionality and more cloud storage.
How I tested the Nextbase Piqo Dash Cam
I installed the dash cam into a test car for a set period of time
I used it for several journeys during both day and night
I connected it to my phone and downloaded recordings for comparison
I lived with the Nextbase Piqo Dash Cam for a week after installing it in a vehicle I was also testing. Following set up and installation, I then powered up the dash cam any time I did a journey, which meant it was used during daylight hours and after dark too. I tested the Nextbase Piqo Dash Cam using the 12V plug in power option, rather than the more permanent hard wiring route. However, aside from not having the always on power functionality, I got to explore all of the available features of the 'Free' subscription option.
The Thermal Master NV300 Max is one of a new generation of advanced road detection systems that utilises infrared thermal technology and AI to highlight dangers and obstacles on the road, even in the dark and when weather conditions make it otherwise hard to see.
The system is made up of three separate parts; the camera, which sits on the exterior of the vehicle, the screen, which is linked to the camera by a cable and sits on your dash and the OBD II dongle that plugs into your car's OBD II port. This port is often hidden away under the dash and once plugged in wirelessly links with the rest of the system.
The main unit, which sits on the exterior of the vehicle, features two cameras, one standard and the other IR, and this attaches via a large magnet onto the roof of your car. This unit is relatively large, and there's no way that you can miss it once it's attached; on some vans, such as the Ford Transit Custom, with the unit on the roof it's over 2m in height which could be an issue, especially for height restricted barriers. However, with the magnet attachment system it is quick and easy to remove, as long as you remember.
The other two parts are the OBD II plug, that simply plugs directly into the car, and the screen that magnetically attaches to a fold-up stand, which is stuck permanently with a sticky pad to your dash.
The overall fitting process takes some DIY skill, and how you do it really depends on where your skill level is and your car; essentially, once the camera is in place, the cable can then be fed around the Window Screen and secured. Then, the cable is routed through the engine bay to the interior of the car and into the LCD screen, which is then plugged into the 12V socket for power. The OBD II is then plugged in, and the App downloaded to your phone - that setup process involves a few adjustments to your phone name, which is a bit off, but once done, everything can be switched on and you're ready to go.
In use, the system works well with the dual camera design, giving you a clear view of the road using the standard camera in the day and the IR as soon as dusk falls. On the screen, boxes highlight in red, amber and green the level of the threats, and audio alerts accompany these. All settings and options are controlled through the connected App with a cut down settings menu that can be accessed through the screen.
As an alert system the Thermal Master NV300 Max works incredibly well - it's easy enough to fit although that additional bulk might be an issue for some. Once it is up and running, it is incredibly fast at spotting potential dangers, and the audio alert "hazard" is superb. As a passenger checking out, the screen as it highlights objects and dangers in thermal mode the vivid colours are impressive alongside those audio alerts. If you want the support of a night vision and alert system, then the NV300 Max is a great choice.
Thermal Master NV300 Max: Price and availability
The Thermal Master NV300 MAX is available for $650 directly from the Thermal Master Website by clicking here.
Value: 4.5 / 5
(Image credit: Alastair Jennings)
Thermal Master NV300 Max: Specs
Thermal Master NV300 Max: Design
This night vision system has been designed to attach to the exterior of your vehicle quickly, and while the camera section and the screen are connected by a cable, they can both be disconnected quickly. The connecting cable is essentially fed through the engine bay to the vehicle's inner cabin during the initial setup, but after that, it can be left in place. When it comes to the installation, set aside at least an hour, after which the link cable can be left in place while the camera can be quickly removed.
The overall quality of each part is solid, with both the camera unit and screen being made from metal and having a high-quality feel. The main camera unit that attaches to the vehicles roof measures approximately 153 x 148 x 63mm weighs 630g, and is weatherproofed. This unit has two forms of attachment, either the large magnet that is built in or the large sticky pad, one obviously being more permanent than the other.
(Image credit: Alastair Jennings)
The screen is relatively large as well at 167 x 80 x 10mm with a weight of 180g and a resolution of 512×384. This is worth noting as the screen fits to a magnetic stand which can be stuck to your dash, then rather than leaving it in place when you leave the car, it can be quickly removed so it doesn't attract unwanted attention. Its connection to the rest of the system is via a standard USB cable so it is nice and easy.
The last hardware part of the system is the OBD II dongle, which plugs directly into the vehicle - if you are unfamiliar with car maintenance, refer to your car's manual, and its position will be highlighted there.
Other than the hardware, you also have the iOS or Android App, which can be quickly downloaded and installed. This is used for the setup but can also used to monitor the feed from the cameras.
Design: 4 / 5
(Image credit: Alastair Jennings)
Thermal Master NV300 Max: Features
As an AI-driven automotive camera, the Thermal Master NV300 Max has quite a list of features that stretch well beyond just being a standard night vision system.
On the front, the main focus of the product is obviously the cameras, both standard and thermal, which enable the unit to work in both day and night conditions. Both cameras also feature a recording function, so all visuals are stored on a MicroSD card that can be inserted into the screen. This means that before you even get started on the object detection, you essentially have a dashboard cam.
The system consists of three parts: the camera, which mounts on the exterior of the vehicle; the screen, which sits on the dash and connects to the camera via a cable; and finally, the OBD dongle that plugs into a port in the car and connects wirelessly. In addition to the hardware, there's also the App that enables you to access and adjust settings, playback footage and receive a live feed from the camera.
Thermal imaging and AI object detection are the main features of the unit, and all options and settings for these can be adjusted through the Thermal Master App, which is available for both Android and iOS mobile devices. Once everything is connected, you can then adjust the settings, including the AI detection distance and IR colour overlays and alerts.
The IR camera, when selected manually or using the systems auto mode will at night, during fog, smog or under the glare of bright headlight, will pick up what's ahead, so while it might be too dark to see using traditional methods, the specialist IR, camera will see all. As standard, the display for this is just black and white; however, with pseudo colours selectable, you can quickly change the display to something far more visually appealing.
With the display set, the AI can then start to work, and any objects that could pose a potential threat are highlighted with a boundary box and highlighted in red, amber, and green, depending on their threat level; it's very clever.
Alongside the visual alerts are audio alerts, which are again handy and, in fact, far more useful when driving than the visual as you can keep your eyes on the road. The AI camera will also alert you if you get too close to the vehicle in front, which is another nice safety feature.
Alongside the safety features are a couple of nice additions, including voice control, which enables you to flick through the different displays, as well as a few other options by just using your voice. Then there's speed display that utilises accurate data from the OBD.
(Image credit: Alastair Jennings)
Features: 5 / 5
Thermal Master NV300 Max: Performance
Before you get started with the Thermal Master NV300 Max, the system and all components need to be installed and fitted. The first step is to unscrew the protective camera cover and then plug in the first cable before screwing it back together; there are five screws in total, so nothing complex. Next on the base of the camera unit is a large magnet with a softer surface covering to protect the car; this holds firmly in position and, once in place, doesn't require any additional fixings. If you have a glass roof, then part of the base of the unit features a large 3M sticky pad, which will securely attach the unit, but using this does mean that it will be an almost permanent feature.
After the cameras are positioned, the cable can be fed around the windscreen; there's usually a gap, and then hooked in under the bonnet and through the engine bay so that it can then be fed through to the interior cabin. With electric cars, this is a little more tricky, so it's best to refer to the car's manual to see if there is a way through. Once into the cabin, you can then link up the screen and plug in the 12V plug, tidy the cables, and you're essentially done with this part of the installation.
Next, you plug in the ODB II reader, which is usually found under the dash and can often be covered; the good thing about the design of the dongle is that once it is in place, you can close the ODB II cover, and it's then hidden from site. These ports are essentially a direct data connection to the car's computer and are used by garages mainly for diagnosing faults, but you can also use this port for re-tuning or, in this case, getting a direct live feed of some of the car's statistics, such as speed, RPM and acceleration.
The final step is to download the Thermal Master App. We did this on the iPhone 15 Pro. One quirk for the use of the App is that you need to change the name of the phone to "nv' in order to create a hotspot with the correct name and password, which is hard set in the Thermal Master NV300 MAX and at present can't be updated.
Once that's done, you can switch it on, and it's ready to go. Realistically, once the unit is setup, you only need the App to adjust settings, firmware updates, or view the footage you've captured, so you can change your phone name back to what it was before. If you do need to access settings for the system, then most can accessed by quickly by touching the bottom right-hand corner of the screen.
One of the settings that you'll want to update from the outset is the "Infrared pseudo-color", and there's a good selection of colour options to choose from; as standard, the IR or Thermal display is obviously just in black and white.
As you start to drive, the usefulness of the system quickly becomes apparent, with the small screen alerting you to the audio "Hazzard" every time it detects a car, van, person, or animal. On the screen, you can see the hot spots, and across the top, small icons pop up showing what type of object has been detected; it's all very quick and clever. Another feature of the detection system is that the objects are surrounded by a boundary box, with green showing that they're at a safe distance, amber showing they're getting closer and red being that they could be an imminent threat. The detection system works well, and while you can't really make the most of viewing the screen while driving, the audio alerts are really handy - the visuals, on the other hand, will keep your passenger entertained.
Alongside the thermal imaging, the OBD II reader is also working to transmit Speed, RPM and acceleration information to the display. Essentially, this is much the same as your vehicle's speed dials, just a little more involved with plenty of additional data - at present, this data isn't recorded down, but if it is in future, then this could be handy alongside the dashboard cam footage if you are involved in a crash.
The other handy feature is voice control; this enables you to switch display types, but is most handy for increasing or decreasing the volume or brightness of the screen, with all commands activated with "Hey Max".
Overall, the performance of the NV300 Max is exceptional, alerting you to potential hazards at night and when the conditions mean that visibility is poor. The audio alerts are key, and the visuals are handy. One of the early reservations about the system was the bulk of the unit on the exterior of the vehicle, but actually, as it's secured with the large magnet, removing and replacing the unit only takes a few moments, and the cables can be routed in and left in place, so its really not an issue. You can install it when you need it and remove it when you don't.
Performance: 4.5 / 5
(Image credit: Alastair Jennings)
Thermal Master NV300 Max: Final verdict
(Image credit: Alastair Jennings)
As an automated night detection system, there's no doubt that the NV300 Max works exceptionally well. Early doubts about the size and bulk on the exterior of the vehicle were quickly dismissed, and even on the van where the height of the vehicle with the addition of the unit would be an issue for barriers, the unit was quick to remove so aside from some slight inconvenience this was a non issue. The only slight stumbling block for some people will be if they have glass or plastic roof sections where the unit would need to be stuck in place, at which point this becomes a more permanent fixture. The App connection to mobile is also a bit of an odd one, requiring you to change the name of the phone in order to make that connection; still, once done, you can always switch back, so again, it's just a small inconvenience rather than a huge issue.
Otherwise, the NV300 Max is fast to fit and remove when needed and works flawlessly in daylight as well as at night and in adverse conditions, highlighting potential dangers. Then there are those additional features that really make this stand out - the fact that it can be used as a dash cam with a MicroSD recording the footage in case you need to review it. Then there's the OBD II data, which is really interesting and could be helpful if you do have a crash or even if you're caught speeding and want to check.
All these features make it a comprehensive safety feature that you can add to your vehicle and is suitable for anyone who hates driving at night, fears hitting something that they cannot see and will be reassured by the presence of a reliable alert system.
