Gadgets - Organizer

One handy feature means these AKG headphones just became my go-to for gaming and movies, not just music

11:30 pm | September 17, 2025

AKG N9: Two minute review

As someone who tests headphones for an income, I've got a roster of "X headphones" for specific tasks. I've got my best headphones for music, my running headphones, a gaming headset, a pair of the best earbuds when it's too hot for headphones, and a set-up for movies and TV shows too.

The new AKG N9 from Samsung's sub-brand's sub-brand, AKG, didn't slot into this line-up as much as they replaced half of them, and it's largely down to one handy feature which we also saw in their contemporary earbuds equivalent, the AKG N5.

I'm not going to do that clickbait headline thing of alluding to a feature and then dancing around the topic, only specifying it 20 paragraphs in: this feature is a dongle which comes build into the AKG N9, and if you plug it into any USB-C slot, it overrides that device's audio output into the N9.

Borrowing a partner's laptop for a quick video call? Dongle it. Don't want to play games out loud for fear of annoying a flatmate? Dongle it. Really can't be bothered to set up Bluetooth on every device you own? Dongle it. That's not to mention that this dongle has a higher quality connection than Bluetooth, affording higher-quality music and entertainment.

Within days of me realising the potential of this dongle, I'd begun using the N9 for a range of tasks that I usually afford to bespoke speakers or headphones; I was watching movies from my iPad, playing video games on my PC and taking calls on my girlfriend's tablet. And now you can take a break from reading the word 'dongle' for a bit.

A handy way to instantly and temporarily connect to any device is a killer feature, but it's not the only one the AKG N9 offer. The AKG Headphones app is full of extras like dynamic EQ, spatial audio, L-R panning and a hearing test to create you a bespoke audio profile.

There's also a battery life that stretches up to a staggering 100 hours if you listen on Bluetooth with noise cancellation off, but lasts for over a day even if you turn on all its power-hungry features.

Of course, I wouldn't be commending headphones like these if they sounded bad; they don't, with AKG's staple neutral audio mix delivering detailed music and an expansive sound stage.

I'm not used to writing so many positives in an introduction, so it feels weird to keep going, but one more thing: the AKG N9 are some of the best-designed headphones I've ever tested. Not only do they look premium but lots of the features are smartly incorporated into the design, with the dongle nestled in a little nook in one cup and volume being controlled by easily twisting one side of the cans. AKG clearly treats design as an important part of the headphone-making process, instead of an afterthought to hold a few drivers and buttons together, and it's appreciated.

Unless you're Sir Mix-a-Lot, you probably don't like big "but..."s, and unfortunately the AKG N9 have a major one: the price. There's no two ways about it: these are premium headphones and many buyers' budgets won't come close to reaching them. That said, they're expensive, but they're not four-figure-cost expensive like many of the true best headphones are, so perhaps sales will bring them within reach if you're interested.

Since I have to list three 'cons': I also feel like the Active Noise Cancellation (ANC) could have been a little bit more robust, as it doesn't compare with top dogs on the market right now. Plus, you can't fold up the headphones for increased portability, which made transporting them in my bag a risky proposition.AK

AKG N9 review: Specifications

Component	Value
Water resistant	NA
Battery life (quoted)	100 hours (ANC off) 55 hours (ANC on)
Bluetooth type	Bluetooth 5.3
Weight	281g
Driver	40mm

AKG N9 review: Price and availability

The AKG N9 on a wooden floor. — (Image credit: Future)

Announced in October 2024
Priced at $399 / £299 / AU$499
Expensive... but competitive to rivals

After making their debut in October 2024, the AKG N9 went on sale that same month. They’ve been on sale for roughly a year, by the time of this review.

The AKG N9 don’t come cheap. They’ll set you back $399 / £299 / AU$499, which firmly cements them as premium cans that you need to consider carefully before you buy.

They cost more than some of our favorite rivals including the iconic Sony WH-1000XM4 and Cambridge Audio Melomania P100, but then again, they undercut (to a decent extent) the B&W Px8, Dali IO-8, the Sony WH-1000XM6 and Bose QuietComfort Ultra.

I should point out that a year on shelves seemingly hasn’t affected the headphones’ usual price (outside of sales)... except in Australia, where they were easy to find for as little as AU$309 which is an absolute steal.

AKG N9 review: Design

Premium-looking sleek cans
Features incorporated into design
Doesn't fold down and no IP rating

On the surface, the AKG N9 might look like any old pair of headphones, but there are a few refinements and polishes that go a long way in making these look both premium and feel ultra-functional.

I’m talking about the soft fabric of the headband (either leather or a close imitator), the comfortable earpads, the sparkling sheen of the speaker covers, svelte fashion of the headband connectors. It all comes together to make it obvious to onlookers just how much you paid for these cans. They come in either white or black.

The headphones weigh 281g so despite some option extras that we’ll get to, they’re on the lighter side of things, and I found them comfortable to wear for long music bouts and entire movies. There’s no IP rating, as far as I can tell, but they felt sturdy enough that I wasn’t worried wearing them out and about.

I also had no qualms in wearing them for long periods of time, as they're comfortable and lightweight.

The headband connectors are extendable by about two inches each, letting you change your headphones’ size. One thing to note is that the headband can’t be folded, so you can’t reduce the size of the N9 to fit in a bag. Instead they can be transported in a rather large carry case that comes included in the price.

As with all the best headphones, each cup provides some useful controls. On the right side we’ve got a slider which lets you turn on the headphones as well as put them into Bluetooth pairing mode, as well as a pause/play button and USB-C charging port – and, in one of my favorite implementations of a volume rocker, the entire headphone cover can be rotated clockwise or anticlockwise to change the volume. This was incredibly easy to use, to save me fiddling with small buttons on the headphone.

The left cup has a 3.5mm headphone jack and a toggle for Ambient Aware noise cancellation, and I thought that was it at the beginning of my testing… until I realized that you can partially slide the headphone cover off to reveal a USB-C dongle underneath. Some may be annoyed that they’re carrying the extra weight of this dongle on the head but it’s only a few grams, and these are still nice and lightweight headphones.

Design score: 4.5/5

AKG N9 review: Features

The AKG N9 on a man's head. — (Image credit: Future)

Hugely long battery life
App brings loads of features
Useful dongle connector

The dongle is one of my favorite features of the AKG N9; you can plug it into any device with a USB-C port to instantly (and, vitally, temporarily) connect to said device without having to go through the laborious pairing method.

I used this to connect to my iPad, my laptop and my PC at various times in order to quickly watch a video, take a call or do some work, and it’s incredibly convenient – in fact, for a while during testing the N9 became my go-to gaming headset. One thing to note is that once during testing the connected device still played music out of its speakers instead of using the N9, and I never really worked out why – like the N5, it worked 90% of the time, but there were a few teething problems.

Another thing I absolutely love is the battery life of the AKG N9, which if you play your cards right lasts for an entire 100 hours. ‘Playing your cards right’ involves listening via Bluetooth with ANC turned off and if you want ANC on, that figure drops by 45 hours; likewise using the dongle cuts about 15% of your listening time over Bluetooth.

However AKG’s lowest battery expectation, specifically talk time over the dongle, is still 30 hours, which beats quite a few competitors. So the battery life is great whatever you do, and it’s fantastic that people who need a lot of listening time on one charge have the option of dialling down the features to get that fantastic figure.

Let’s touch on that active noise cancellation, which so dramatically affects the battery life. AKG has given the N9 a range of ANC modes: Ambient Aware which cuts out ambient background sound but allows in important nearby ones, TalkThru which does the same but just for voices, and a standard ANC mode which has extra modes for Adaptive ANC which changes the noise cancellation strength depending on your surroundings and Auto Compensation which does the same based on how you’re wearing the N9.

It’s a pretty overwhelming array of options for non-audiophiles but it does let you get into the nitty-gritty of what you can and can’t hear. However even at its strongest tier the ANC is only good, never great, and quite a few rivals are better for removing background sound.

Those aren’t the only overwhelming options in the feature set, because the AKG Headphones App has an absolutely huge roster of perks, including the ability to balance your sound to the left or right, change how voices sound on calls and play with a 10-band equalizer.

As in the AKG N5, the app lets you choose between listening to high-res audio, or enabling a few other features including spatial audio, dynamic EQ for low volumes and Personi-Fi. This latter is a hearing test that provides you with a custom audio mix.

Features score: 5/5

AKG N9 review: Sound performance

40mm drivers
Balanced sound profile
Textured audio in high-res mode

The AKG N9 pack 40mm dynamic drivers with what the company calls “liquid crystal polymer diaphragms” which are designed to improve the detail and clarity across the board.

It works because the N9 have a beautifully balanced sound profile, which doesn’t dominate your mix with too much treble or overblown bass (though it also gives you a nice springboard to use the equalizer to change this if you like a wonky sound mix).

Instead you’re getting a detailed glimpse across the bow of an entire orchestra or band, full of texture and detail. You can hear the scoop of a bass guitar string, the strike of fingers on piano keys – I almost felt like I could tell which guitar strings were being strummed during chords.

There’s an audible sound spread too, and I noticed mids in several songs holding a distinct space that many rival cans lose. It’s an effect that makes these just as great for movies and gaming as for music, and I went so far as to use these headphones instead of my gaming headset during the testing period.

At times I did feel like songs lacked a an extra ounce of energy, with the bass in particular missing a touch of momentum, but these aren’t huge issues – I’m only nit-picking here to justify the score below not being a full 5 out of 5.

Sound performance score: 4/5

AKG N9: Value

If you’ve read the price section already, you’ll know that the AKG N9 have an uphill battle in proving themselves in the value department (and if you didn’t read that section, they cost $399 / £299 / AU$499).

Basically no headphones costing that much present a real value proposition, not when you can get great alternatives for a third of the price, but for what it’s worth the AKG N9s come closer than most.

The inclusion of the dongle, the useful cup controls, the range of features and high-quality audio all come together to make it clear that AKG is giving you some value for money… just not as much as if you’d paid a lot less money.

I will say, though, that these are primed for deals in Black Friday and Amazon Prime Days. So if you don't think you can afford them, it could be waiting to see how low the price goes.

Value score: 4/5

AKG N9 review: scorecard

Category	Comment	Score
Value	AKG goes some way in justifing the price of the N9, but they're easily beaten in this department.	4/5
Design	Not only do the cans look great, but the design neatly incorporates many of the headphone's features.	4.5/5
Features	From the Bluetooth dongle to the range of app features to the long-lasting battery, everything's working here.	5/5
Sound	The N9 has a nice balanced sound profile that will please most listeners, if not owners of the real top dogs.	4/5

AKG N9: Should I buy?

Buy them if...

You own mulitple smart devices

The AKG N9 are primed for people who want to connect their headphones to multiple devices like laptops, phones, computers (even games consoles or PCs).

You don't get to charge frequently

The 100-hour battery life is really impressive. Even though most users will turn on ANC or use the dongle and not see that figure, it's great to know that it's an option for travellers or forgetful chargers.

You need a carry case

Certainly not all headphones come with a carry case, but the AKG N9 does, which is great for transporting it. Not only that but the case has sections for various cables and an extra adaptor to connect the N9 to airline entertainment systems.

Don't buy them if...

You can't justify the price

There's no shame in admitting that these headphones are too expensive for everyone to consider buying. Even if you can reach for them, if you don't need the feature set, cheaper models are tempting rivals.

You want foldable or waterproof cans

No IP rating and no way of folding the AKG N9 down does hamper their portability and protection somewhat.

Also consider

Component	AKG N9	Cambridge Audio Melomania P100	Sony WH-1000XM6
Water resistant	NA	NA	NA
Battery life	100 hours (ANC off) 55 hours (ANC on)	100 hours (ANC off) 60 hours (ANC on)	40 hours (ANC off) 30 hours (ANC on)
Bluetooth type	Bluetooth 5.3	Bluetooth 5.3	Bluetooth 5.3
Weight	281g	330g	254g
Driver	40mm	40mm	30mm dynamic

Cambridge Audio Melomania P100

We gave the P100 five stars in our review due to just how amazing they sound and how premium they feel. They also have an N9-matching battery life and Matt Berry voice controls. What's more, they undercut the N9 in price.

Read our full Cambridge Audio Melomania P100 review

Sony WH-1000XM4

Sure, they're a little older in the tooth now, but if you like the iconic looks and slightly retro style of the AKGs, you'll love the look (and the audio chops) of the XM4 too. Add to this the fact that they're often available for quite a bit less than the AKG and as long as you're prepared to omit a few features (and Bluetooth 5.0, so no scope for Auracast), these might have you covered.

Read our full Sony WH-1000XM4 reviewView Deal

How I tested

I tested the AKG N9 for two weeks, doing so alongside their contemporary siblings the AKG N5 (which are earbuds).

As you'll know from reading this review I tested them on loads of devices: Bluetooth from my smartphone, 3.5mm on an iPod Classic and 2.4Ghz dongle on a Windows PC, Windows laptop, iPad and Android tablet.

This was done for a range of functions; mainly listening to music and streaming audio but also gaming, movies and video calls. I tested at home, in the office and around my neighborhood, including on a several-hour-long trip.

Casabrews CM5418: one-minute review

For many folks attempting to recreate the cafe experience at home, the absolute best of the best espresso machines just aren’t a practical choice.

Not only do luxury options come with a pretty crushing price tag, they also tend to be larger and offer fewer beginner-friendly modifications. Although, you could argue that this is by design; those who approach espresso as a deeply-involved hobby won’t mind trading off some extra counter space and time in exchange for perfectly dialled-in shots. Meanwhile, if your goal is a consistently pretty tasty output with very few bells and whistles, something like the Casabrews CM5418 really hits the mark.

At just $139.99 / £149.99, the CM5418 is a seriously budget-friendly espresso machine, even when compared to the rest of Casabrews’ already low-cost lineup. There are a few areas where cut corners feel like an obvious downgrade: mainly in the feel of the portafilter and the accessories the machine comes with. However, it performs consistently with the aid of its double-walled baskets, continually producing well-extracted espresso with noticeable crema that the majority of coffee enjoyers would be pleased with.

It may be worth investing in a couple of upgrades if you want to be able to pull espresso that wows, but in the meantime, you can enjoy perfectly pleasant americanos, lattes, and more from the CM5418 as is.

Casabrews CM5418: price and availability

List price: $139.99 / £149.99 (price varies depending on color variants)
Available in the US and UK
Discounts available on Casabrews' website

When it comes to espresso machines that are kind to your wallet, the price of the Casabrews CM5418 is close to as good as it gets.

In the US, you can purchase the Casabrews CM5418 for $139.99 at the Casabrews site and on Amazon. Though it’s worth noting that the MSRP for colored versions is a little higher, at $169.99. The Casabrews site has regular coupon codes and sales, so you may be able to score this machine for even cheaper.

Casabrews ships to the UK as well, but all the prices are listed in US dollars. Alternatively, you can pick up the CM5418 from Amazon UK. Unfortunately, the full color range isn’t available on Amazon UK, but this won’t be an issue if you had your heart set on a silver or black version.

Value score: 5/5

Casabrews CM5418: specifications

Type	Semi-automatic espresso machine
Drink options	2 (single and double espresso)
Pump pressure	20 bar
Water tank capacity	34oz / 1 liter
Steam wand	Yes, manual
Side (H x W x D)	12.28 x 5.47 x 11.97 inches / 31.19 x 13.89 x 30.14cm
Weight	8.6lb / 3.9kg

Casabrews CM5418: design

Small-scale, charming design
Available in seven colors
Cheap-feeling portafilter and disappointing accessories

The Casabrews CM5418 is a compact little espresso machine that’d be right at home in small kitchens, office spaces, or even on the road in a campervan. With it coming in at under six inches wide, you really shouldn’t have any difficulty finding a home for it, even in living areas that are tight on space. What’s more, it’s exceptionally light too. So even if you do decide to store in the cupboard between uses, you’ll only have to shift 8.6lbs in and out each time.

I’d prefer to keep my machine out of the counter though, and not just for convenience’s sake; the CM5418 actually looks rather cute. The pressure gauge on the front face is not only a very practical clue of how well your espresso is extracting but also adds some visual interest to a machine lacking a LCD screen. Though this is actually inline with my own preferences, to be honest: I found the four simple, tactile buttons on the CM5418 to be far more satisfying to use than the digital displays or touchscreens found on some expensive espresso machines.

If you fancy jazzing up your coffee station a bit, there’s a decently wide range of color options to choose from: silver, black, beige, sapphire blue, baby blue, pastel green, and pink. This is a win for anyone who’s a sucker for color coordination, but you will end up paying a $30 premium for any color other than silver. Such is the cost of beauty, I guess.

True to its lower price point, the CM5418’s build doesn’t feel composed of particular high-end materials. But, in my time testing it, I never found the slight compromise on component quality to be much of an issue. That is, with the exception of the machine’s 51mm portafilter.

Not only is the portafilter handle made from a hard plastic that really doesn’t feel especially pleasant in the hand, but the mechanism for securing the basket into it is a little unwieldy too. The standard method involves having a spring clip to maintain tension when the basket is pushed into the portafilter, but the CM5418 baskets have a notch that has to be threaded into a gap in the portafilter’s lip instead. As a result, the basket wobbles and clacks around noisily when the portafilter is moved, and it’s not difficult to disturb your puck preparation with this instability. I didn’t have any problems with the basket outright falling out of the portafilter during my tests, but it’s not hard to imagine that the looseness of the threads could occasionally lead to you accidentally sending your basket flying into your knock box.

The CM5418 comes with a one shot basket and a two shot basket, both of which are pressurized. Casabrews’ decision to not include a non-pressurized basket says a lot about how beginner-friendly this machine is supposed to be. Instead of relying on the resistance of water traveling through your coffee puck, the extra wall in a pressurized basket does the heavy lifting when it comes to regulating extraction pressure and creating the appearance of crema. As a result, less precision is needed for a consistent output and you can even get away with using preground coffee. However, the trade off is that you just won’t achieve the same peak in flavor.

If you do find that you’d prefer to use a non-pressurized basket with your CM5418, you’re in a bit of a pickle. Not only does the machine have a relatively uncommon grouphead size of 51mm but as mentioned before, the portafilter doesn’t use a spring clip. Not even on the Casabrews website is there an option to buy single-walled baskets that are compatible with the CM5418’s stock portafilter. So, if you want to make this change, you’ll have to purchase a whole new portafilter.

Even if you don’t opt for a single-walled upgrade, there are some accessories you’ll want to pick up that aren’t covered by what you get in-box. For example, the CM5418 doesn’t come with a stainless steel jug to steam your milk in. So, if you’re going to try your hand at lattes, that’s worth chucking in your basket. A plastic tamp-scoop is included that’s extremely lightweight, and the scoop end makes it difficult to position your hand for proper tamping. It’s fine in a pinch, but definitely not ideal. For the price, these are less ‘deal breakers’ and more annoying yet understandable cut corners.

Design score: 3.5/5

Casabrews CM5418: performance

Quick heat-up time and simple operation
Consistent espresso output
Impressive steam wand

As with most entry/mid level espresso machines, the CM5418’s water is heated using a thermoblock rather than a traditional boiler. The main benefit of a thermoblock heating system (other than cutting down cost) is just how speedy it makes the preheating process. As a matter of fact, the CM5418 is ready to go in about 40 seconds. While this isn’t quite as fast as the 5-second heat up time promised from the CM5418 Pro, it’s still far from anything that would disrupt your morning routine. After all, 40 seconds isn’t the kind of wait that would get in the way of your coffee-making flow; it's like the perfect amount of time to grab your favorite mug and weigh out your beans.

Thanks to the double-walled baskets, pulling a tasty shot of espresso with the CM5418 is a lot more foolproof than it would otherwise be. Of course, the beans you choose still matter – as does your grind size, extraction time, and dosage – but pressurized baskets help to crank the difficulty meter down a bit. You’re still aiming for that bullseye although the area of the bullseye is just that bit bigger. So, while I still dealt with some fussing adjusting my grind for the best extraction, it didn’t take too much effort to get to something tasty.

For the majority of my test shots, I used Mask of the Mire from Dark Arts Coffee. These beans yielded espresso which was nutty and sweet, if lacking in complexity just a bit. Though it’s not hard to imagine that my shots could fare better with some slight upgrades to the machine, what I had was consistently great for the basis of an americano or a milk drink …despite being a tad boring on its own.

Even right out of the box, the steam wand had a fluid range of motion that made it easy to position it at the right point in my milk jug. It’s operated by a knob on the side of the machine and responds quickly to activation, meaning you can get straight into aerating your milk without much fuss. Some other budget espresso machines like the (non Arte) DeLonghi Dedica have what’s called a panarello wand, which is best suited to making fluffy, dry cappuccino foam, but majorly falls down when it comes to creating microfoam. Meanwhile, the CM5418 has no trouble delivering velvety milk well suited to a flat white.

As mentioned before, the water (and subsequently, the steam) is heated with a thermoblock and while this makes the process faster, it does mean that pulling espresso and steaming milk can’t be done at the same time. Switching between modes takes mere seconds. So, this is really only a problem if you anticipate making multiple milk-based drinks in a row.

4.5/5

Should you buy the Casabrews CM5418?

Casabrews CM5418 score card
Attribute	Notes	Score
Value	Espresso machines don't get much more affordable than this.	5/5
Design	Small, charming design in a choice of colors, but accessories feel cheap.	3.5/5
Performance	Quick to heat up, easy to use, and more consistent than many of the budget espresso machines we;ve tested.	4.5/5

Buy it if

You’re looking for an espresso machine under $150

Putting together a coffee setup can get pricey really quick, and if you’re trying to keep costs low, it’s worth splurging most of your budget on a good grinder.

You tend to follow the same espresso recipe daily

The CM5418’s single-walled baskets and lack of temperature controls make it a little more difficult to finetune your recipe to get the very most out of a new bag of beans. If you’re a creature of habit who doesn’t experiment too much with their coffee, this shouldn’t be a problem.

You’re a fan of milk-based drinks

The CM5418 has a steam wand that does a superb job at whipping up steamed milk, foam, or microfoam. If you’re not the type to drink your espresso straight, this machine is a winner.

Don't buy it if

Your budget for an espresso machine is $250+

If you can afford to drop hundreds of dollars on an espresso machine, it’s worth considering more high-end options than the CM5418. It’s an impressive performer at its price range, but it would definitely get blown out of the water by luxury models.

You want a bean-to-cup machine

After you pick up a CM5418 (or any espresso machine for that matter), a great grinder should be the next thing on your shopping list. Though if you’d prefer to save yourself the hassle, you can always opt for a bean-to-cup machine instead.

Casabrews CM5418: also consider

If you’re unsure of whether the Casabrews CM5418 is the right espresso machine for you, it’s worth checking out these alternatives:

Breville / Sage Bambino

The Breville Bambino (or Sage Bambino, as it’s known in the UK) is a definite jump-up in price from the CM5418, but it’s still good value. This machine heats up lightning fast and is a good fit for those beginning their journey with coffee as a full-blown hobby.

Read our full Breville / Sage Bambino review

De'Longhi Dedica Style EC685

Our reigning champion in the arena of the best budget espresso machines, the DeLonghi Dedica Style EC685 is another fun-sized espresso machine that’s well-suited for beginners. It’s just a tad more expensive than the Casabrews CM5418 and less suited for producing microfoam, but it comes from a much more established brand (making upgrades and repairs an easier process).

Read our full De'Longhi Dedica Style EC685 review

How I tested the Casabrews CM5418

I tested the Casabrews CM5418 over a period of four weeks, using it regularly to make black and milk-based espresso drinks.

During my tests, I alternated between using light, dark, and omni-roasted fresh espresso beans bought from specialty coffee roasters. All beans were ground using the Baratza Encore ESP, with the grind size adjusted a number of times to achieve the optimal result.

The steam wand was tested with fresh, full-fat dairy milk, semi-skimmed milk, and oat milk. After each steam, I made sure to purge and clean the wand to keep it operational. For more details, see how we test, review, and rate products at TechRadar.

First reviewed September 2025

The Casabrews CM5418 is a small but mighty espresso machine for the casual coffee lover

6:00 pm |

Author: admin | Category: Coffee Machines Computers Gadgets Home Small Appliances | Tags: UK, US | Comments: Off

Casabrews CM5418: one-minute review

For many folks attempting to recreate the cafe experience at home, the absolute best of the best espresso machines just aren’t a practical choice.

Casabrews CM5418: price and availability

List price: $139.99 / £149.99 (price varies depending on color variants)
Available in the US and UK
Discounts available on Casabrews' website

Value score: 5/5

Casabrews CM5418: specifications

Type	Semi-automatic espresso machine
Drink options	2 (single and double espresso)
Pump pressure	20 bar
Water tank capacity	34oz / 1 liter
Steam wand	Yes, manual
Side (H x W x D)	12.28 x 5.47 x 11.97 inches / 31.19 x 13.89 x 30.14cm
Weight	8.6lb / 3.9kg

Casabrews CM5418: design

Small-scale, charming design
Available in seven colors
Cheap-feeling portafilter and disappointing accessories

Design score: 3.5/5

Casabrews CM5418: performance

Quick heat-up time and simple operation
Consistent espresso output
Impressive steam wand

4.5/5

Should you buy the Casabrews CM5418?

Casabrews CM5418 score card
Attribute	Notes	Score
Value	Espresso machines don't get much more affordable than this.	5/5
Design	Small, charming design in a choice of colors, but accessories feel cheap.	3.5/5
Performance	Quick to heat up, easy to use, and more consistent than many of the budget espresso machines we;ve tested.	4.5/5

Buy it if

You’re looking for an espresso machine under $150

Putting together a coffee setup can get pricey really quick, and if you’re trying to keep costs low, it’s worth splurging most of your budget on a good grinder.

You tend to follow the same espresso recipe daily

You’re a fan of milk-based drinks

The CM5418 has a steam wand that does a superb job at whipping up steamed milk, foam, or microfoam. If you’re not the type to drink your espresso straight, this machine is a winner.

Don't buy it if

Your budget for an espresso machine is $250+

You want a bean-to-cup machine

Casabrews CM5418: also consider

If you’re unsure of whether the Casabrews CM5418 is the right espresso machine for you, it’s worth checking out these alternatives:

Breville / Sage Bambino

Read our full Breville / Sage Bambino review

De'Longhi Dedica Style EC685

Read our full De'Longhi Dedica Style EC685 review

How I tested the Casabrews CM5418

I tested the Casabrews CM5418 over a period of four weeks, using it regularly to make black and milk-based espresso drinks.

First reviewed September 2025

The Apple iPhone Air is the sexiest iPhone I’ve ever tested – it’s really a new kind of Pro

3:00 pm |

Author: admin | Category: Computers Gadgets iPhone Phones | Comments: Off

Apple iPhone Air: Two-Minute Review

The iPhone Air is, to a degree, exactly what we were expecting: Apple’s thinnest iPhone ever, measuring just 5.64mm. It feels light, balanced, and durable thanks to a grade 5 titanium frame and Ceramic Shield glass. In the hand it’s sleek and refined – I’ve been using my Sky Blue unit for a week now and it’s still turning heads.

The 6.5-inch Super Retina XDR OLED display is excellent: it’s an always-on display that supports ProMotion, HDR, and brightness up to 3,000 nits. It’s slightly bigger than the iPhone 17’s screen, which gives apps, text, and videos more room to breathe, and it looks great whether I’m scrolling TikTok, watching HDR movies, or just browsing outside on a sunny day.

iOS 26 feels tailor made for the Air, with its new Liquid Glass design that looks striking and complements the physical build. Messages now support custom backgrounds, typing indicators, and polls, while the Phone app and Visual Intelligence get useful upgrades. And while Siri’s full AI overhaul isn’t here yet, Apple Intelligence features are starting to appear.

The biggest trade-off comes with the camera setup: there’s just a single 48-megapixel lens on the rear of the phone. It produces sharp, natural-looking photos and impressive portraits, but you’ll miss the flexibility of a telephoto or ultrawide if you’re used to them. The selfie camera is excellent, though, with Apple’s Center Stage smarts for automatic wide and ultrawide framing, and Dual Capture is genuinely fun.

Performance from the A19 Pro is snappy and smooth, and it capably handled everything I threw at it, though the phone does get warm during fast charging or heavy gaming. Battery life is decent but not class-leading: enough for a workday, usually six to eight hours of use, with my best stretch hitting around 10 hours away from the charger. Power users may want to invest in the $99 / £99.00 / AU$159 MagSafe Battery Pack, which matches the phone’s slim profile and adds about 65% more life, but it’s an added cost.

The iPhone Air isn’t the best iPhone for photography or endurance, but as a design statement, it’s a gem. It feels like the most exciting iPhone Apple has released in years, and while it costs more than the iPhone 17 with fewer cameras and shorter battery life, it delivers value in other key areas.

Apple iPhone Air: Price and Availability

Apple unveiled the iPhone Air at its September 9, 2025, ‘Awe Dropping’ event alongside the iPhone 17, iPhone 17 Pro, iPhone 17 Pro Max, AirPods Pro 3, and three new Apple Watches. The Air, though, stands out with its entirely new design, and is a whole new category of iPhone.

It starts at $999 / £999 / AU$1,799 for 256GB of storage, or you can bump that up to 512GB for $1,199 / £1,199 / AU$2,199, or 1TB for $1,399 / £1,399 / AU$2,599. The iPhone Air is an eSIM-only device worldwide and comes in four colors: Sky Blue, Light Gold, Cloud White, and Space Black. I’ve been testing a 1TB iPhone Air in Sky Blue.

Apple will officially launch the iPhone Air on September 19, 2025, but it’s up for pre-order now from the company’s online store, authorized retailers, and carriers.

Apple iPhone Air: Specs

	iPhone Air	iPhone 17	iPhone 17 Pro	iPhone 17 Pro Max
Weight:	165g	177g	206g	233g
Display:	6.5-inch OLED	6.3-inch OLED	6.3-inch OLED	6.9-inch OLED
Resolution:	2736 x 1260	2622 x 1206	2622 x 1206	2868 x 1320
Refresh rate:	120Hz	120Hz	120Hz	120Hz
Peak brightness:	3,000 nits	3,000 nits	3,000 nits	3,000 nits
Chipset:	A19 Pro	A19	A19 Pro	A19 Pro
Rear cameras:	48MP wide (26mm, ƒ/1.6)	48MP wide (26mm, ƒ/1.6), 48MP ultra-wide (13 mm, ƒ/2.2)	48MP wide (24mm, ƒ/1.78), 48MP ultra-wide (13 mm, ƒ/2.2), 48MP telephoto (8x optical zoom)	48MP wide (24mm, ƒ/1.78), 48MP ultra-wide (13 mm, ƒ/2.2), 48MP telephoto (8x optical zoom)
Front camera:	18MP (ƒ/1.9)	18MP (ƒ/1.9)	18MP (ƒ/1.9)	18MP (ƒ/1.9)
Storage:	256GB, 512GB, 1TB	256GB, 512GB	256GB, 512GB, 1TB	256GB, 512GB, 1TB, 2TB
Colors:	Space Black, Cloud White, Light Gold, Sky Blue	Black, White, Mist Blue, Sage, Lavender	Silver, Cosmic Orange, Deep Blue	Silver, Cosmic Orange, Deep Blue

Apple iPhone Air: Design

Apple iPhone Air Review — (Image credit: Jacob Krol/Future)

The freshest look that Apple has delivered in years
Unbelievably thin and light
Feels great in the hand with proper ergonomics

If you were following the Apple rumor cycle, we were all expecting an ultra-thin iPhone to be released – one that would potentially go thinner than the iPhone 6 or 6 Plus, be more stunning than the iPhone X, and offer a truly refreshed look and feel for the iPhone. The launch event’s ‘Awe Dropping’ tagline set the bar high – and the iPhone Air cleared it with room to spare.

It’s not the first ultra-thin phone – the Galaxy S25 Edge measures in at 5.8 millimeters – but it still feels as stunning, sleek, and sexy in my hand right now after living with it for a week as it did during my brief hands-on session following the launch event. It feels as exciting as the iPhone X, in that it might give us the playbook for the modern iPhone going forward – or at least show us one half of the purportedly incoming foldable iPhone.

The photos released by Apple, and even those shot by me for this review, only do it partial justice. The iPhone Air is the best representation yet of Apple’s vision for an iPhone that’s just glass. It weighs in at just 5.82 ounces, or 165 grams, fully justifying the ‘Air’ moniker. Much like the iPhone 17 or even a Pro Max, it feels balanced – not too top-heavy, not too bottom-heavy. It’s Goldilocks ergonomics.

I don’t know if I’d quite call it awe-dropping, but the thinness is the part that gets people excited. At its thinnest, the iPhone Air is 5.64 millimeters, or 0.22 inches, and the ‘plateau’ (Apple’s new term for the camera bump) only juts out a bit more. I was instantly wowed, and over the course of a week (well, eight days now), I’ve really become accustomed to this look and feel for an iPhone.

While conducting some testing over the week, I showed it to my brother and sister-in-law, who were both visibly impressed when holding it. They asked about durability and were a little stunned at the overall feel. Then came the questions about battery life and the camera – both of which I’ll address below – and whether the USB-C port was thinner.

On that last point – it’s still a regular USB-C port, but to fit it in this frame and get it this small, Apple’s design team started by 3D-printing a custom one. And given how thin this phone had to be, Apple went back to grade five titanium for the shell and sides of the device. To further enhance the looks, it has a polished finish. My Sky Blue review handset is different from the MacBook Air and iPad Air colors of the same name – it’s a bit lighter and pastel-like. I really like it, and the Air also comes in Light Gold, Space Black, and Cloud White.

While the innermost layer of the iPhone Air sandwich is made of that strong titanium, which can bend slightly under pressure but is designed to spring back, it’s topped and bottomed with glass and glass ceramic; specifically Ceramic Shield 2 on the front and Ceramic Shield on the back. The rear, like the iPhone 17, is mostly frosted matte glass, while the top bump gets the glossy finish.

Apple says the Air is three times more scratch-resistant on the front – though I’ve still been careful sliding this in and out of my front or rear jeans pockets – and the back is four times more crack-resistant.

I actually did drop it on concrete paving stones, and the iPhone Air came out completely unscathed. My dog Rosie pulled me suddenly, I dropped the Air, and it hit the ground on the top-left corner and then landed screen-down, single camera-up. Not even a scratch. Rosie was off the hook.

That incident, along with our Editor at Large Lance Ulanoff’s bend test and his fumble with the iPhone Air, gives some credence to Apple’s durability promises. Apple says the iPhone Air is more durable than any model before this and on par with the rest of the 17 lineup. In a test behind closed doors at Apple Park, I saw an iPhone Air put through the wringer, receiving a simulated force of 130 pounds, and bending and then springing back with no visible stress marks left.

It also has the same IP68 rating for resistance to dust and water as the iPhone 17, 17 Pro, and 17 Pro Max – it survived a light drizzle shortly after I unboxed it at Apple Park. The weather’s been wet in my home state of Jersey, and the Air has shown no issues when being used in rain or surviving a dunk test.

Even given the extreme thinness here, you still get the usual buttons you’d expect on an iPhone. Camera Control (still not a button) has been redesigned to live on the right-hand side, and it’s slightly thinner but about the same length as on other iPhones. The power/sleep button sits slightly higher on this side, with the Action Button, volume up, and volume down on the left. The main mono speaker lives at the top with some microphones, and there are two other microphones either side of the USB-C port on the bottom.

This design does, as mentioned, only leave room for a single camera, and likely a smaller battery inside, but Apple has also dropped the SIM card slot worldwide and opted for eSIM to save some space.

The iPhone Air is stunning, attracts a lot of admiring glances, and feels like the biggest refresh in iPhone design we’ve seen in a while. Yes, it’s the same key parts, just compressed; but in use it feels like the perfect showcase for iOS 26. If you’re after Apple’s best design this year, I think it’s clearly the iPhone Air – but there's a lot more to this iPhone than just looks.

Design score: 5 / 5

Apple iPhone Air: Display

At 6.5 inches the front is virtually all screen
It’s on a par with the displays on the Pro and Pro Max

For $999 / £999 / AU$1,799 it would be a little mean of Apple not to include ProMotion or always-on functionality here, and the iPhone Air supports both. As a whole, the screen here is basically in line with those of the iPhone 17, 17 Pro, or 17 Pro Max.

The front of the iPhone Air is nearly all glass, except for a thin black bezel that turns into the sloped polished side. It’s a 6.5-inch Super Retina XDR OLED display with a resolution of 2376 x 1260, which works out to 460 pixels per inch. It tops out at 3,000 nits of brightness when needed, supports the Wide Color P3 gamut and HDR, and features an anti-reflective coating. It also has the same Dynamic Island as the rest of the iPhone 17 line.

In daily use, the display is really the main appeal here – on paper, it’s 0.2 inches bigger diagonally than the iPhone 17 or 17 Pro, but it feels a bit more expansive. It offers more lines of text, or a slightly expanded view when viewing a webpage. Games or movies feel a little more like an event, and it offers a broad canvas for iOS 26. Lay two of these phones side by side and I think you’d have some idea of what Apple is planning to bring us with its long-rumored folding iPhone – and it would look mightily impressive, but we’re not quite there yet. And it’s still smaller than the Pro Max.

Colors looked punchy and vibrant, text was inky black and crisp, and it was a great display for daily use. I found that it got bright enough to battle the bright sunshine of California, the late summer sunshine of New Jersey and New York, as well as bright artificial lighting. I liked scrolling TikTok and Instagram Reels, or watching a video on it, mainly thanks to the super-smooth ProMotion display.

And iOS 26, with its Liquid Glass makeover, looks fantastic here.

Display score: 5 / 5

Apple iPhone Air: Software and Apple Intelligence

Liquid Glass runs well here and feels purpose-built for the design
iOS 26 brings with it some really smart features

I have a feeling that the design team at Apple knew the Air was on the roadmap when designing Liquid Glass.

iOS 26 is running on the iPhone Air out of the box, and as on any iPhone, announces itself with a ‘Hello’ on the first boot. You’ll get a sense of the new translucent, glass-like nature of the software pretty quickly. It’s mostly visible in how notifications refract over your wallpaper or up top, with whatever is behind the element. I especially like the way the bottom menu bars look with this, although legibility can be an issue at times, depending on what’s behind the element. You’ll also notice a difference if you use light mode or dark mode.

The redesign is only a portion of iOS 26, as Apple’s latest OS introduces a number of new features. I’m keen to put many of the new parts of Messages to the test with my friends and various group chats. With the latter, you’ll now get typing indicators, and you can set a custom background for any Message group or individual. This will, I have a feeling, be an especially tough test for legibility with the Liquid Glass components. You also have the option to add polls in group messages, which is a fun way to decide on activities or maybe pick a restaurant.

The Phone app is entirely new, though you can switch back, placing your favorites up top and below that is a combined list of outgoing and incoming calls, missed calls, and even voicemails. It can be a lot to process at first, but after months on the beta I’m more or less used to it, although I have switched back to the original setup occasionally, as the new one makes voicemails a little harder to track down. You can also use Live Translation during calls, which can be helpful for international travel, and I especially like the wait-on-hold feature.

Visual Intelligence, which is engaged with a long press of Camera Control, is a bit smarter here, and can now identify events to add to your calendar and integrate with apps that add support with the API. However, we’re still waiting on the full AI-powered Siri, and many of the new Apple Intelligence features aren’t front and center here.

You can check out our full guide to iOS 26 here, as there’s a lot more to dig into.

Software score: 4 / 5

Apple iPhone Air: Camera

Single-lens 48MP Fusion camera on the rear
You can get some impressive shots, especially portraits
Front-facing camera is 18MP with Center Stage

This is where the compromises necessitated by the iPhone Air’s unfeasibly thin design begin: the iPhone Air only features a single, 48-megapixel Fusion camera on the back. It can shoot at 1x, a sensor crop in 2x, or a maximum digital 10x, but the quality falls off noticeably with the latter.

I’ll cut to the chase here – if you’re after the iPhone with the best cameras, or even just some variety for shooting, this is probably not it.

I was impressed with some of the shots I took, particularly the one taken from 36,000 feet out an airplane window in the gallery below – the Air captured a surprising amount of detail around the engine, wing, and even the clouds, and what appears to be a mountain in the distance. The night mode worked very well when capturing my Bernedoodle, the aforementioned Rosie, and I’m especially impressed with the Portrait mode here, and the work going on behind the scenes to deliver the right bokeh effect in the right spot.

Still, as someone who used a 16 Pro Max before this, I miss the telephoto camera, even if that wasn’t a Super Res Zoom like on a Galaxy or a Pixel; 2x isn’t a lot. The iPhone Air also doesn’t have an ultra-wide or a macro camera. If anything, it’s made me think about the types of shots I’d want to capture with a phone, and if an ultra-wide or zoom is a deal breaker for you, you’ll want to look at the 17 or the 17 Pro duo.

The 48MP Fusion camera here can capture photos at a full 48 megapixels or, by default, a 24-megapixel photo that saves space by combining a 12-megapixel shot and a 48-megapixel shot. It normally does a pretty good job of preserving colors and details, and is something that Apple’s been doing for several generations of iPhone.

The main lens here does an admirable job, and I’m quite happy with some of the images I got – particularly in portrait mode, with the camera keeping colors within a realistic range and not skewing warmer or cooler, as well as capturing plenty of the finer details.

In some cases, photos looked a bit washed out – for instance, landscapes on particularly sunny days, as when I took test shots at a botanical garden (although I was able to capture a sunflower quite nicely, other fauna, and even orange fish below a less-than-crystal-clear pond). Mostly, though, the camera can capture those more vibrant moments, such as a shot of Yankee Stadium or the sunset from a plane window.

Without a true telephoto or an ultrawide, you’re able to take more creative control to capture unique shots. You can see a full gallery of test images – standard photos at 1x or 2x, and some digital zoom ones, as well as Portraits at 1x or 2x – below.

A new feature that takes advantage of the 18-megapixel Center Stage camera on the front and the rear camera is Dual Capture. It’s not a brand-new idea, and essentially this lets you record with the front camera and rear camera at the same time, with stabilization applied. I think it’s a lot of fun, especially for sports events, where you could capture both the on-field action and the reaction of you and your friends, and I imagine it would be a blast at concerts – I could record myself belting out Born to Run along with the Boss – but also for parents with young children.

The 18-megapixel selfie camera uses a larger image sensor than on previous iPhones, and it’s actually super helpful. Essentially, it can automatically adjust a wide or ultra-wide view so you can easily fit everyone into your selfie or video, and with the tap of a button you can rotate between vertical and horizontal without needing to physically rotate your phone. It also delivers a serious, high-quality selfie.

I’ll include some video samples below – the 48MP camera isn’t a slouch here, and performs on a par with the standard iPhone 17. The end result is either up to 1080p HD at up to 60 frames per second, or 4K at up to 60fps.

Camera score: 4 / 5

Image 1 of 24

Apple iPhone Air Camera Samples — (Image credit: Jacob Krol/Future)

Image 2 of 24

Image 3 of 24

Image 4 of 24

Image 5 of 24

Image 6 of 24

Image 7 of 24

Image 8 of 24

Image 9 of 24

Image 10 of 24

Image 11 of 24

Image 12 of 24

Image 13 of 24

Image 14 of 24

Image 15 of 24

Image 16 of 24

Image 17 of 24

Image 18 of 24

Image 19 of 24

Image 20 of 24

Image 21 of 24

Image 22 of 24

Image 23 of 24

Image 24 of 24

Apple iPhone Air: Performance

The iPhone Air feels responsive and fast, even with more intense workflows
A19 Pro chip should keep it running smoothly for years
Can get warm on the camera bump with gaming and other more intensive tasks

Powering the iPhone Air is Apple’s A19 Pro chip, which is a step up from the iPhone 17’s A19, and a slightly less powerful version of the A19 Pro in the iPhone 17 Pro and 17 Pro Max, without the extra cooling technology. The A19 Pro here is a 6-core CPU with two performance and four efficiency cores, a 5-core GPU, and a 16-core Neural Engine.

It’s a good lick faster than the A18 Pro or A18 found in the iPhone 16 Pro Max or 16, especially with various elements of iOS 26 – including spatializing a wallpaper – and in everyday use. Compared to the standard iPhone 17, I’d say performance is about neck and neck. The A19 Pro is arguably being used here to help regulate performance temperature.

I did notice the iPhone Air heating up during the first few days while it was still indexing and charging – especially from 0% to about 50% – before cooling as it slowed near 80%. It also warms up when multitasking with demanding apps at times.

For example, if I’m on a call and launch a game like Asphalt 9, the area around the camera housing on the rear can get noticeably warm, though it cools quickly as performance regulates. The heat doesn’t spread below the Apple logo, and a case, like Apple’s Bumper or Clear option, helps keep it from your fingertips.

Keep in mind that basically all the components do live in the plateau – including the silicon – so it makes sense that the area does heat up. When it comes to non-gaming tasks, though, the iPhone Air handles everything well, and delivers strong performance while keeping cool. That was the case with my daily workflow consisting of calls – audio and FaceTime – as well as Mail, Gmail, Slack, Safari, Chrome, Edits, Capcut, the Camera, and other apps. Even with creating a Genmoji or using Image Playground or another facet of Apple intelligence, the iPhone Air didn’t get especially warm.

In terms of quantitative testing, the iPhone Air scored slightly higher than the iPhone 17 on GeekBench 6.5, at 3,723 on single-core and 9,665 on multi-core. That’s in line with smartphones at this price range, though, as we noted in our Galaxy S25 Edge review, that phone has a thermal solution for keeping things cool.

Performance score: 4 / 5

Apple iPhone Air: Battery

It can deliver all-day battery for some, but more likely will last a full workday
You’ll likely need to recharge it during the day
While costly, the MagSafe Battery is a sound investment

We can only guess at the iPhone Air’s battery size for now, as Apple doesn’t officially release those numbers. It’s clear, though, that the company has squeezed as large a cell as possible inside this ultra-slim smartphone.

Instead of capacity, Apple provides viewing estimates: up to 27 hours of downloaded video playback and 22 hours of streaming. With the $99 MagSafe Battery attached, those numbers rise to 40 and 35 hours, respectively – about a 65% boost.

In my experience, the iPhone Air generally lasts through a workday – six to eight hours depending on use. That’s behind the iPhone 17, 17 Pro, and 17 Pro Max, but it still meets Apple’s “all-day” standard. On one test, I took it off a charger at 7:30am and it lasted until 5:50pm, or 10 hours and 20 minutes. At best, I recorded six hours and 35 minutes of active screen time; on average, I got around four hours and 45 minutes.

During my first few fast charges, the top of the camera plateau and the area beneath it did get warm, mostly between 0% and 50%, before cooling down. This isn’t unusual for fast charging and reflects the component layout.

Power users will likely need to recharge by the time they get home. Apple’s slim MagSafe Battery nearly matches the Air’s profile, adding only a bit more thickness than the camera bump. It recharges intelligently throughout the day, manages heat well, and uses pocket detection to optimize charging times. Optional, yes – but it complements the iPhone Air experience nicely.

Battery score: 4 / 5

Apple iPhone Air: Should You Buy?

iPhone Air Score card
Attributes	Notes	Rating
Design	The iPhone Air is Apple’s most exciting refresh in years.	5 / 5
Display	The iPhone Air’s 6.5-inch Super Retina XDR OLED is punchy, sharp, and smooth with ProMotion and Always-On functionality.	5 / 5
Software	iOS 26 feels tailor-made for the iPhone Air.	4 / 5
Camera	The iPhone Air relies on a single 48MP lens that delivers sharp, natural photos and impressive portraits, but lacks the versatility found on other models.	4 / 5
Performance	The iPhone Air feels fast and smooth in daily use, though it can warm up under sustained heavy gaming.	4 / 5
Battery	The iPhone Air should last a workday, but heavy users will need to recharge.	4 / 5
Value	At $999, the iPhone Air feels like a new kind of Pro – trading camera and battery versatility for design.	4 / 5

Buy it if...

If you want the thinnest, lightest iPhone ever

At just 5.64 milimeters thick and 165 grams light, it’s the thinnest and lightest iPhone ever, and feels great in the hand.

If you want a gorgeous, large display

If you don’t want to pay the tax of a Pro Max or a screen that big, the iPhone Air’s 6.5-inch screen is great, and it feels like an all-screen device

If you’re ready for an iPhone that feels unlike the rest

Looks are subjective, but if you want the boldest-looking iPhone in years, this might be the one to get

Don’t buy it if...

You want the longest battery life

Depending on usage, the iPhone Air can struggle to make it through a full day, so those looking for a lasting performance will want to look elsewhere

You want the best cameras in an iPhone

With just a single lens, those who want a versatile set of lenses will need to look at the Pro or Pro Max

You want maximum performance

With an extra core and more thermals, the iPhone 17 Pro and 17 Pro Max offer unmatched performance for extreme workflows

Apple iPhone Air: How I Tested

I’ve been covering smartphones for years — including iPhones since the iPhone 8 lineup — and my first personal iPhone was the 3GS. For this review, I set up the iPhone Air in Sky Blue, moving my number over from an iPhone 16 Pro Max via eSIM and starting fresh.

Over more than a week of testing, I put the Air through everyday use: calls, streaming music, gaming, watching TV and movies, capturing photos, and running my usual suite of work apps. I measured performance using both real-world applications and benchmarks, such as GeekBench 6.5, paying close attention to how it handled multitasking and more demanding workloads. For battery life, I tracked how quickly it drained during different tasks and also ran a standardized assessment.

On the camera side, I pushed the single 48MP rear lens through its paces — testing 1x, 2x crop, Portrait, and Night modes, plus video recording up to 4K at 60fps. I also spent time with the new 18MP selfie camera, trying both portraits and group shots, and had fun with Dual Capture for video.

To get a clearer sense of how it stacks up, I compared the results directly with the iPhone 17, the iPhone 16 and 16 Plus, iPhone 16 Pro and 16 Pro Max, Google Pixel 10 and Pixel 10 Pro, and Samsung’s Galaxy S25 Ultra.

First reviewed September 2025.

After a week with the iPhone 17, I’m convinced it’s the best-value iPhone ever

3:00 pm |

Author: admin | Category: Computers Gadgets iPhone Phones | Tags: Dual Capture | Comments: Off

Apple iPhone 17: Two-Minute Review

In my hands-on preview of the iPhone 17, I said it could be the best standard iPhone in years, and after a week of using Apple’s latest base model for photos, calls, work, and everything else, I can confidently confirm: this is the best standard iPhone in many years.

At $799 / £799 / AU$1,399, with double the starting storage and a laundry list of upgrades, Apple’s never made a better-value iPhone – especially compared to the 16e.

The 6.3-inch Super Retina XDR display is the star of the show. It’s punchy, sharp, and now buttery smooth thanks to ProMotion, plus you get Always-On functionality that’s actually useful day to day. Pair that with Apple’s new A19 chip, and the iPhone 17 feels plenty fast enough for most everyday tasks – whether you’re gaming, scrolling TikTok, or multitasking with video running in the corner.

The design doesn’t rewrite the rulebook, but it doesn’t need to. It’s still instantly recognizable as an iPhone, with a slightly bigger build, fresh colors like Sage Green, and with Camera Control and the Action Button on the sides. The phone feels comfortable in the hand and balanced, just like you’d expect. I can, however, see some folks missing the Ultra Marine or Pink Colors from the iPhone 16 lineup.

The base iPhone’s cameras have been given a serious improvement, too: both the main and ultra-wide are now 48MP, which means sharper, more color-accurate shots with less edge distortion. I really liked the new front-facing Center Stage camera as well, since it means no more selfie Tetris when you’re trying to fit in a group. And Dual Capture, which lets you record with the front and rear cameras at the same time, is one of those features that’s actually fun at a concert or ballgame.

Battery life? Solid. I consistently made it through a full day with the iPhone 17, even with the Always-On display turned on and some heavier workflows. And when it’s time to plug in, the new 40W fast charging gets you back up quickly – about 50% in 20 minutes and 80% in under an hour.

Put it all together, and the iPhone 17 feels like the iPhone most people should buy. It’s fast, fun, reliable, and continues to beat the all-important drum of delivering some Pro-level features without the Pro-level price.

If you have an iPhone 16 or iPhone 15, you probably don’t need to upgrade to the iPhone 17 unless you want a better rear camera (which only applies to iPhone 15 owners or those with a 16 who swear by the ultra-wide lens) or desperately need a Pro-level display. But if you have an iPhone 14 or older, this is the year to make the jump.

Apple iPhone 17: Price and availability

$799 / £799 / AU$1,399 starting price
256GB starting storage

Apple’s iPhone 17 was announced during the company’s ‘Awe Dropping’ event on September 9, 2025, alongside the iPhone Air, iPhone 17 Pro, and iPhone 17 Pro Max. It’s up for preorder right now and officially launches on September 19, 2025 – that’s also the date when the earliest online orders will arrive.

The iPhone 17 starts with double the starting storage of its predecessor – 256GB – , thankfully, keeps the same starting price of $799 / £799 / AU$1,399. It jumps to $999 / £999 / AU$1,799 for 512GB of storage. Apple’s offering the iPhone 17 in Sage Green, Mist Blue, Lavender, Black, or White.

Apple iPhone 17: Specs

Here are the key specs of the iPhone 17, as well as how they compare to the rest of the iPhone 17 lineup (including the iPhone 17 Air):

	iPhone 17	iPhone Air	iPhone 17 Pro	iPhone 17 Pro Max
Weight:	177g	165g	206g	233g
Display:	6.3-inch OLED	6.5-inch OLED	6.3-inch OLED	6.9-inch OLED
Resolution:	2622 x 1206	2736 x 1260	2622 x 1206	2868 x 1320
Refresh rate:	120Hz	120Hz	120Hz	120Hz
Peak brightness:	3,000 nits	3,000 nits	3,000 nits	3,000 nits
Chipset:	A19	A19 Pro	A19 Pro	A19 Pro
Rear cameras:	48MP wide (26mm, ƒ/1.6), 48MP ultra-wide (13 mm, ƒ/2.2)	48MP wide (26mm, ƒ/1.6)	48MP wide (24mm, ƒ/1.78), 48MP ultra-wide (13 mm, ƒ/2.2), 48MP telephoto (8x optical zoom)	48MP wide (24mm, ƒ/1.78), 48MP ultra-wide (13 mm, ƒ/2.2), 48MP telephoto (8x optical zoom)
Front camera:	18MP (ƒ/1.9)	18MP (ƒ/1.9)	18MP (ƒ/1.9)	18MP (ƒ/1.9)
Storage:	256GB, 512GB	256GB, 512GB, 1TB	256GB, 512GB, 1TB	256GB, 512GB, 1TB, 2TB
Colors:	Black, White, Mist Blue, Sage, Lavender	Space Black, Cloud White, Light Gold, Sky Blue	Silver, Cosmic Orange, Deep Blue	Silver, Cosmic Orange, Deep Blue

Apple iPhone 17: Design

Apple iPhone 17 Review — (Image credit: Jacob Krol/Future)

No true redesign; it’s similar to the iPhone 17
Color range is fun
More durable year over year

Yeah, the iPhone Air is strikingly thin, and the iPhone 17 Pro and Pro Max look pretty different, but Apple’s staying the course with the iPhone 17 – and it makes a lot of sense.

As the entry-level model in the 2025 lineup, it feels instantly recognizable as an iPhone and looks right at home when compared to the previous iPhone 16 (or the 15 or 14 before that).

The iPhone 17 keeps largely the same dimensions, with only slight growth compared to the iPhone 16 – it’s 149.6 x 71.5 x 7.95mm versus 146.7 x 71.6 x 7.8mm. So, it’s ever so slightly thicker and seven grams heavier year over year, but I doubt you’ll notice this in daily use.

Over the past week, I’ve been using the iPhone 17 – alongside the Air, which is a story for another day – and it feels every bit like a modern iPhone. While I thought the colors were a little lacking in pop during my hands-on, the Sage Green model I’ve been testing has certainly grown on me. It lacks the vibrancy of last year’s Ultra Marine iPhone 16, but I especially like how it shifts from a lighter to a darker hue as the light hits it. The 17 also comes in Mist Blue, Lavender, White, or Black, should this Sage hue not be to your taste.

It’s also got the same color finish as the previous generation – it’s mostly a frosted back that gives a pastel-like effect, while the sides of the 17 are a matte, lighter version of the shade. It all comes together quite nicely, and the camera bump on the back – which houses the 48MP main and 48MP ultra-wide cameras – is slightly raised with a glossy, darker shade of Sage.

The left side is still home to the Action Button, which is infinitely customizable, as well as the volume up and volume down buttons. The right is where you’ll find the power/sleep button, as well as the “don’t call it a button” Camera Control cut-out. The USB-C port is on the bottom and offers one way to recharge the iPhone 17, while there’s also a MagSafe ring on the back for wireless charging.

The iPhone 17 still feels every bit like the modern iPhone we’ve come to expect and is very comfortable to use in the hand, with Apple appropriately balancing the device internally. It’s not a radical makeover, but one of the biggest changes is staring you in the face – at least when the phone’s screen is on.

Design score: 4 / 5

Apple iPhone 17: Display

Finally, a 120Hz display
It’s an Always-On screen
Excellent visuals and more scratch-resistant

I think the Steve Jobs Theater gave out its loudest applause in some time when it was announced that ProMotion and Always-On functionality were arriving on the iPhone 17, and it’s probably the standout feature from my time with the device so far.

Not just as someone coming from the iPhone 16 Pro Max with an Always-On display, but also as someone who’s looking at the price – $799 / £799 / AU$1,399 – and the sea of other 120Hz-capable phones available. Either way, Apple’s provided a solution to one of the biggest qualms with the previous entry-level iPhones.

Yes, the iPhone 17’s 6.3-inch Super Retina XDR OLED display now supports ProMotion, meaning it delivers a buttery-smooth experience for scrolling, swiping, gaming, streaming, and even general navigation, as it will adjust on the fly from 1Hz all the way up to 120Hz depending on what you’re doing. The iPhone 16, 15, and 14 before it were all locked at 60Hz, which wasn’t a big deal if you weren’t coming from a 120Hz device, but this is a really nice upgrade.

There’s also a slight display size upgrade. iPhone 17’s screen is 0.2 inches bigger than the iPhone 16’s, which is the same increase awarded to the iPhone 16 Pro versus the iPhone 15 Pro. This means the iPhone 17’s display stretches much closer to the edges.

Paired with the A19 processor and the excellent vibrancy and richness of the Super Retina XDR screen, it all feels more responsive and instantaneous – whether that’s navigating the Liquid Glass world of iOS 26, playing a AAA game, or swiping through photos. I even enjoyed watching films and TV episodes on the iPhone 17; everything looked great with excellent color reproduction and smooth visuals.

The Dynamic Island is still at the top, and I especially enjoyed seeing apps like Flighty and United take it over with important travel details, the Yankees score via the Sports app, and deliveries for coffee from Uber Eats or DoorDash while writing this review. More and more apps are supporting this functionality, and I hope it’s a trend that continues. I’ll dive into the selfie camera improvements below, but they’re pretty massive and, more importantly, pure fun.

Last but not least, the other trickle-down feature – Always-On functionality. This might be more useful day in, day out than ProMotion. Just like the Pro iPhones and even the Apple Watches, the iPhone 17’s display will still show the time, your widgets (if you have them set), and notifications even when the display is not in use. This comes in seriously handy for a quick glance to see the weather, the time, or the notifications piling up.

The iPhone 17’s display story is really about the sum of its parts. ProMotion, Always-On, and a slightly larger screen make for a great experience, and there’s a serious amount of value to be found through this display alone. Oh, and it’s also coated in Ceramic Shield 2, which makes it three times as scratch-resistant as the screen on the iPhone 16 – that’s a win, especially if you're prone to dropping your iPhone.

Display score: 5 / 5

Apple iPhone 17: Software and Apple Intelligence

iOS 26 is a feature-filled upgrade

iOS 26 is officially out for the masses, and it should come as no surprise that it’s installed and running on the iPhone 17 right out of the box. It’s one of my favorite software refreshes from Apple in quite some time, with Liquid Glass at the center of it.

You’ll notice it immediately from the moment you power up the iPhone 17, with a translucent “Hello” appearing in various languages – a nice taste of the experience to come. Liquid Glass is all about clear, see-through interpretations of menus and components that stack on top of each other. This design language freshens things up and pairs nicely with the actual build of the iPhone 17. My favorite part, though, is how it handles menus: they layer instead of blocking the OS behind them.

There’s also an abundance of customization, especially with the tinting or color picking of app icons and the Lock Screen. You can choose the typeface and clock size, as well as spatialize photos to have them tilt as you move your iPhone.

Design aside, some core apps have been significantly updated. Phone is completely redone, with a main screen that now houses favorites up top, followed by calls made, received, missed, and even voicemails in a list below. It’s simpler once you get the hang of it, but the bigger win here is Call Screening and Translation during phone calls.

The former has been a major time-saver, screening unknown callers and presenting a typed-out transcript before you decide to pick up. As someone who’s had to call an airline or wait on hold with Amazon, the “hold for you” functionality is also quite nice.

While you can use Camera Control to take a photo, I prefer the long hold to scan something – to visually search it, add a date to my calendar, or identify an item. That’s part of the Visual Intelligence upgrade, and we should see more apps start to integrate with this feature. Think snapping a photo of a jacket and then using it to find the same one online.

There are plenty of other features in iOS 26, and you should check out our guide for the full list. Other software standouts on the iPhone 17 include typing indicators in group messages and the auto-transition functionality in Music. Hey, I even figured out a way to transition from a Bruce Springsteen classic to Olivia Rodrigo – talk about a skill.

Software score: 4 / 5

Apple iPhone 17: Camera

Two excellent cameras
The upgraded ultra-wide lens is a major improvement
Dual Capture is a fun new mode

While at a glance the two-camera setup on the iPhone 17 looks pretty similar to that of the iPhone 16, the former has been given a significant upgrade. It’s still a 48MP main camera, but that’s now paired with a 48MP ultra-wide camera, both of which are “Fusion” in Apple’s mind. The latter is upgraded from a 12MP camera on the iPhone 16, and the results deliver less warp in the corners, along with shots that are more color-accurate and richer in detail.

You can take an image or start recording video with the Camera Control or the touch interface, which is redesigned as part of iOS 26. As a whole, the iPhone 17 is a sharp shooter, and I’ve been really liking the overall image quality from both cameras. You can technically shoot at 0.5x, 1x, and 2x with digital zoom up to 10x. Results will vary with that last option, though.

With the 1x lens, you can shoot at either the full 48MP or let Apple’s “Photonic Engine” work some Fusion magic to shoot at a 24MP default size that bins every four pixels into one. The goal here is to preserve storage space – though starting storage is up to 256GB from 128GB – and still deliver excellent-looking images rich with detail and accurate colors. I think it largely succeeds here, and since the ultra-wide lens is now 48MP as well, you’ll have the same binning option, which really shines.

Not only do ultra-wide shots pack in more detail with less warping at the edges, but I find them to be more accurate in terms of what you’re capturing and the associated colors. As in years past, Apple tends to skew more toward reality with less over-saturation and a slightly cooler image. You can adjust this with Photographic Styles, Apple’s version of filters, which actually impact how the camera captures a shot.

You can see samples shot from the rear cameras below – including ultra-wide shots, main shots at 1x, digital crops at 2x, and Macro mode. The latter really lets you capture a unique angle or view of an object – especially flowers. It’s also something I missed on the iPhone Air.

As I noted in the iPhone 16 review, the iPhone 17’s main camera does a nice job of applying a bokeh effect to almost any shot with either the 24MP or 48MP output. It can enhance the overall impact of a shot, but this year I also noticed that it extends to Night mode shots, which might indicate an update to the overall processing.

My favorite camera upgrade with the iPhone 17 is on the front: the new Center Stage camera, which jumps from 12 to 18MP with a larger square sensor. That’s paired with software and algorithms to let it stretch and even rotate from a vertical to horizontal shot, depending on how many people you want to get in the photo.

This change eliminates the game of Tetris for group selfies, and it’s quick at recognizing what needs to be done. The quality is also much improved over the previous generation, and this update comes across every new iPhone – the Air, 17 Pro, and 17 Pro Max included. It’s more fun, useful, and less of a gimmick than the slofie (slow-motion selfie).

The other new feature of the iPhone 17’s camera is Dual Capture, which allows you to record video with the front and rear cameras – anywhere from 0.5x to 10x digital zoom – and end up with a single file. This isn’t an entirely new idea, but Apple is baking the function directly into the Camera app. It was a lot of fun to use at a baseball game – the Savannah Bananas at Yankee Stadium, if you’re interested – but I can also see the feature being a blast at concerts, when you’re belting out a song (“Born to Run,” anyone?). And it will likely be fun for families, especially with little ones.

So, while we still don’t have a Google Pixel super-zoom equivalent or a true telephoto here, the iPhone 17’s cameras can shoot among the best. You’re left with high-quality photos that don’t skew out of reality, and even though there’s no “Add Me” or “Camera Coach,” you have several capture modes to pick from and the right tools to get a great shot.

Camera score: 4.5 / 5

Camera samples

Image 1 of 23

Image 2 of 23

Image 3 of 23

Image 4 of 23

Image 5 of 23

Image 6 of 23

Image 7 of 23

Image 8 of 23

Image 9 of 23

Image 10 of 23

Image 11 of 23

Image 12 of 23

Image 13 of 23

Image 14 of 23

Image 15 of 23

Image 16 of 23

Image 17 of 23

Image 18 of 23

Image 19 of 23

Image 20 of 23

Image 21 of 23

Image 22 of 23

Image 23 of 23

Apple iPhone 17: Performance

A19 chip is plenty, plenty fast
Not a major boost over the iPhone 16, but a big improvement over older iPhones

The iPhone 17 is the debut product for a new chip from Apple, the A19. This, of course, succeeds the A18 found in the iPhone 16 and iPhone 16 Plus. It’s not a Pro chip in name according to Apple, though it does power some previously Pro-only features and really makes the iPhone 17 responsive even with a battering of tasks thrown at it.

Apple’s A19 chip is made up of a six-core CPU – split between two performance cores and four efficiency cores – a five-core GPU with accelerators, and a 16-core Neural Engine. It’s also a 3nm chip paired with a new display engine, which makes ProMotion and Always-On a reality here.

The iPhone 17 offers great performance and screams value when you also consider that, for the same starting price as the iPhone 16, the internal storage is doubled to 256GB. That's not something you'll get from similarly priced rivals like the Samsung Galaxy S25 and Google Pixel 10.

You’ll have plenty of room to store photos with this beefier capacity – even 48MP captures – as well as apps, music, files, and other odds and ends. But the real appeal here is that the iPhone 17 feels fast, fluid, and responsive with pretty much any task. It also doesn’t heat up nearly as much as previous generations when using Apple Intelligence features like Visual Intelligence or Image Playground.

When taking a quick flight in Real Flight Simulator, I found the phoneresponsive even at maximum graphics and with a picture-in-picture video running. Other games, including Mini Metro, Asphalt 9, Disney Speedstorm, and Disney Dreamlight Valley, also ran well on the iPhone 17.

My core applications for personal use and work – like Slack, Gmail, Calendar, Google Meet, Instagram, TikTok, Music, Spotify, Google Drive, and many others – all ran without a hitch, and I didn’t find myself needing to close out of apps in the app drawer, even after extended use. In comparison to the A19 Pro found in the iPhone Air, these two devices were mostly on par in terms of performance. Exports could finish a little faster on Apple’s new super-slim model, likely thanks to the extra GPU core, but I didn’t find myself missing any beats on the iPhone 17.

My qualitative daily experience with the iPhone 17 also matched up with benchmarking done by the Future PLC team. The iPhone 17 scored 3,701 single-core and 9,460 multi-core on GeekBench 6.5, compared to the iPhone 16’s 3,301 single-core and 8,033 multi-core. It’s a solid improvement generation over generation, then, and present-day performance or the future is not a concern on the iPhone 17.

Performance score: 4.5 / 5

Apple iPhone 17: Battery

Like the iPhone 16, the 17 can last all day
It now supports up to 40W fast charging when wired

Apple still isn’t sharing the battery size inside the iPhone 17 – it rarely does so for most of its products – so we’ll need to wait for a proper teardown to see the exact lithium-ion cell inside. Apple instead promises all-day battery life and a downloaded video playback time of up to 30 hours – a six-hour improvement over the iPhone 16. For streamed video, the iPhone 17 can supposedly last for up to 27 hours – a nine-hour improvement. So, maybe the extra thickness inside the phone is for a larger battery, or the A19 is just much more efficient.

Either way, it can be a little hard to translate those playback estimates into everyday use, but after a week of testing, it’s fair to say that the iPhone 17 lasted all day on a consistent basis, even with the Always-On display turned on. I managed to last from early morning to evening, even with several FaceTimes and two video exports, without needing to plug it in. That’s not quite iPhone 16 Plus battery level, though it seems as though the 17 Pro Max is succeeding that device as the battery champ.

When it is time to plug in the iPhone 17, Apple’s upped the spec; the phone now supports up to 40W fast charging. With a 40W fast charger, you can hit around 50% from zero in about 20 minutes – based on a few tests – and 80% in less than an hour.

If you’re planning to be on the road constantly shooting images, playing some games, or draining the battery with heavy workflows, you might find that you need to recharge after eight or nine hours. I did encounter that, but the faster recharge times helped mitigate this. There is, however, no official MagSafe Battery Pack for this iPhone model.

And hey, you do still get the USB-C to USB-C cable in the box. I did find that with fast charging, the iPhone 17 does get hot – not to the point of burning your fingers, but it does become warm during the initial ramp-up, then cools down as it approaches 80%.

Battery score: 4 / 5

Apple iPhone 17: Should you Buy?

iPhone 17 score card
Attributes	Notes	Rating
Design	A similar design to the 16, with new colors and a more durable build.	4 / 5
Display	Finally, a 120Hz Always-On screen.	5 / 5
Camera	New capture modes, plus the addition of a 48MP ultra-wide lens next to the 48MP main, make the iPhone 17’s camera setup plenty versatile.	4.5 / 5
Software	iOS 26 brings a lot of new features, and the iPhone 17 lets you use them all.	4 / 5
Performance	The A19 chip is plenty fast for now and should last well into the future.	4.5 / 5
Battery	It can still last all day, but no major improvement.	4 / 5
Value	Same price as the 16 but with double the storage and more features.	5 / 5

Buy it if...

You have an older iPhone
If you’re rocking an iPhone 14 or older, you’ll likely see the most benefits from upgrading to an iPhone 17 – including better cameras on the front and back, a much-improved display, longer battery life, and better day-in, day-out performance.View Deal

You want Pro features without the tax
The iPhone 17 is the first entry-level iPhone to get both a ProMotion and an Always-On display. Let’s hope Apple keeps trickling down these features.View Deal

Don’t buy it if...

You want the best iPhone possible
If you want the best screen, the best cameras, or the longest-lasting iPhone, you’ll want to look at the iPhone 17 Pro or iPhone 17 Pro Max.View Deal

You want the best-looking iPhone
This is subjective, but while the iPhone 17 looks good, the iPhone Air is stunning, sexy, and sleek.View Deal

You want the most cutting-edge AI features
Apple Intelligence is still rounding itself out, but if you’re after a phone with an AI option for most things, consider the Google Pixel 10 or Pixel 10 Pro.View Deal

Apple iPhone 17: How I Tested

I’ve been reviewing phones for years, including iPhones since the iPhone 8 lineup. To complete this review, I used the iPhone 17 in Sage Green for over a week.

During that time, I tested every part of the phone – making calls, streaming music, playing games, watching shows and movies, snapping photos, and working across my usual apps. For performance, I ran both qualitative and quantitative tests, including GeekBench 6.5, and noted how the phone handled heavier tasks like gaming or multitasking. For battery life, I tracked percentage drop across a full day of use and ran a standardized test.

For the cameras, I shot extensively with the 48MP main and new 48MP ultra-wide lenses, testing 0.5x, 1x, and 2x crop, as well as Portrait, Night mode, and Macro shots. I also tried the upgraded 18MP selfie camera and Dual Capture video. To put results in context, I compared them with shots from the iPhone Air, the entire iPhone 16 lineup, Google Pixel 10, Pixel 10 Pro, and Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra.

First reviewed September 2025.

Apple iPhone 17 Pro Max is the best iPhone I’ve ever tested and I love it – even Cosmic Orange

3:00 pm |

Author: admin | Category: Computers Gadgets iPhone Phones | Tags: AI, Google Pixel | Comments: Off

Apple iPhone 17 Pro Max: Two-minute review

If you're looking different in your iPhone shopping journey, the iPhone 17 Pro Max (and smaller iPhone 17 Pro) has you covered. It's not just that fetching Cosmic Orange, the unexpected hue hit of Apple's 'Awe Dropping' event; Apple's iPhone 17 Pro Max features a fresh design with new materials, and a broad and bold product-spanning camera plateau that adds a distinctive flair to what had become a somewhat tired design.

Inside, the changes are no less significant, from the powerful A19 Pro chip to the new vapor-chamber supported heat-management system, which enable enough performance to support every peak and valley of your experience.

Apple iPhone 17 Pro Max REVIEW — (Image credit: Lance Ulanoff / Future)

If you're fixated on cameras (as I am), the iPhone 17 Pro Max (and 17 Pro) will not disappoint. There are now finally three 48MP lenses that support a wide range of shooting styles. Perhaps the most notable of the three is the new 48MP 4x optical zoom lens that also offers access to a sensor-crop 8x zoom, which, thanks to selecting the. center pixels from the large sensor and an upgraded image pipeline, delivers some truly eye-popping photos.

This is also an upgrade that makes a canny swap of titanium for aluminum, a seeming downgrade but one with some significant benefits, like the ability to apply that amazing new anodized orange finish and the ability to better distribute and dissipate heat.

Finally, there's the price – it's the one thing you hope doesn't get an upgrade, and I'm happy to report that Apple somehow held the line here, and the iPhone 17 Pro Max still starts at $1,199 / £1,199 / AU$2,149. It's never been a cheap smartphone, but then this one is for the Pros, and I think they will be very happy. I know I am.

As for why you might buy the iPhone 17 Pro Max over the iPhone 17 Pro, that comes down to screen size, battery life potential, and the option to get up to 2TB of storage; otherwise, these iPhones are identical.

Apple iPhone 17 Pro Max review: Price and availability

Starts at $1,199 / £1,199 / AU$2,149
Pre-orders opened on September 12, shipping from September 19

The iPhone 17 Pro Max was announced at Apple's 'Awe Dropping' event on September 9. Pre-orders began on September 12, and the phone arrives in stores and starts shipping on September 19.

The iPhone 17 Pro starts at $1,199/ £1,199 / AU$2,149 for the model with 256GB of storage, with that price rising to $1,399 / £1,399 / AU$2,599 for 512GB of storage, $1,599 / £1,599 / AU$2,999 for 1TB of storage, and $1,999 / £1,999 / AU$3,799 for 2TB of storage. The latter configuration represents the largest storage capacity of any iPhone ever.

Apple is likely getting undue credit for not raising the price of the base model iPhone 17 Pro Max (I'm happy they didn't, but it's not like they lowered the price). Component prices and supply-chain issues relating to the geopolitical stage are surely putting pressure on the company (and it's under continual pressure from the US to start building the iPhone in the country). Somehow, though, Apple has held the line, and the base iPhone 17 Pro Max (and 17 Pro) still starts at $1,199 / £1,199 / AU$2,149 for the 256GB model.

The only difference in pricing comes into play when you stretch to the phone's new upper tier of 2TB, which is only available with the Pro Max model. That sends the price up to almost $2,000. It boggles the mind that we now consider paying almost two grand for a pocket-sized device to be rational. On the other hand, this is a true pro-level smartphone that, based on my tests, is probably ready for pro photography and videography tasks – and when you put it like that, it might seem like a bargain.

Storage	US price	UK price	AU price
256GB	$1,199	£1,199	AU$2,149
512GB	$1,399	£1,399	AU$2,599
1TB	$1,599	£1,599	AU$2,999
2TB	$1,999	£1,999	AU$3,799

Value score: 4 / 5

Apple iPhone 17 Pro Max review: Specs

	iPhone 17	iPhone 17 Air	iPhone 17 Pro	iPhone 17 Pro Max
Weight:	177g	165g	206g	233g
Display:	6.3-inch OLED	6.5-inch OLED	6.3-inch OLED	6.9-inch OLED
Resolution:	2622 x 1206	2736 x 1260	2622 x 1206	2868 x 1320
Refresh rate:	120Hz	120Hz	120Hz	120Hz
Peak brightness:	3,000 nits	3,000 nits	3,000 nits	3,000 nits
Chipset:	A19	A19 Pro	A19 Pro	A19 Pro
Rear cameras:	48MP wide (26mm, f/1.6), 48MP ultra-wide (13mm, f/2.2)	48MP wide (26mm, f/1.6)	48MP wide (24mm, f/1.78), 48MP ultra-wide (13mm, f/2.2), 48MP telephoto (8x optical zoom)	48MP wide (24mm, f/1.78), 48MP ultra-wide (13mm, f/2.2), 48MP telephoto (8x optical zoom)
Front camera:	18MP (f/1.9)	18MP (ƒ/1.9)	18MP (f/1.9)	18MP (f/1.9)
Storage:	256GB, 512GB	256GB, 512GB, 1TB	256GB, 512GB, 1TB	256GB, 512GB, 1TB, 2TB
Colors:	Black, White, Mist Blue, Sage, Lavender	Space Black, Cloud White, Light Gold, Sky Blue	Silver, Cosmic Orange, Deep Blue	Silver, Cosmic Orange, Deep Blue

Apple iPhone 17 Pro Max review: Design

A fresh, possibly divisive look
New materials pay dividends in colors and performance
Still familiar in most of the best ways

I saw enough leaks in the run-up to the iPhone 17 line launch to have a pretty good idea of what was coming; and, to be honest, I was preparing to hate the iPhone 17 Pro Max redesign and colors. Yet, here I am now, quite pleased with the giant plateau (it's too big to call it a 'bump') and, yes, loving Cosmic Orange.

In many ways, the iPhone 17 Pro Max is still undoubtedly part of the long lineage of iPhones before it. There are, though, just enough new touches here to add up to what I am comfortable calling a redesign.

Starting with the back, there's the now nearly full-width plateau that's both a bold design touch but also a practical measure, in that underneath there's now more space for upgraded components like the refreshed tetraprism (think 'periscope') that supports a new, longer telephoto lens.

Most (but not all) previous iPhone backs featured just one material, usually metal or glass. The iPhone 17 Pro Max is a spiffy mix of the two: metal and glass, or rather a large rectangular Ceramic Shield cutout, with the rest a unibody chassis literally carved out of aluminum.

Instead of a titanium band surrounding a frame, components, and the front and back glass, the iPhone 17 Pro Max's back cascades seamlessly to the sides, and even curves just a bit around the front to meet the Ceramic Shield 2 screen covers, which reportedly will better protect it from scratches (we'll see). It all has an incredibly unified feel, and because Apple has radically cut down on edges, the phone feel very comfortable to hold.

When it comes to dimensions and weight, the iPhone 17 Pro Max is slightly larger and heavier that the 16 Pro Max, but I challenge anyone to notice the differences, which can be measured in fractions. The iPhone 17 Pro Max is 163mm tall by 78mm long by 8.75mm thick, and weighs 233 grams. By contrast, the 16 Pro Max was 163 x 77.6 x 8.25mm and weighed 227g.

This year there are no new buttons to contend with. Along one edge we have the long power and Siri button, and below it, Camera Control. Opposite them is the Action Button, and below that a pair of volume buttons.

Image 1 of 5

Image 2 of 5

Image 3 of 5

Image 4 of 5

Image 5 of 5

There are small differences along the shorter edges. On top, an antenna cutout is now visible, and on the bottom, the pair of speaker grilles appear larger (yes, this phone can provide very loud and clear sound).

If you want to lie the phone flat, you'll have to place it screen-down. Even though the back plateau is nearly the full width of the phone, the tri-camera array still bumps out even further, and between this and the wide metal bump, this phone lies on its back at a slightly more extreme angle than the iPhone 16 Pro Max.

The switch from titanium to aluminum provides not only some useful heat-management and energy efficiency benefits, it's also opened the door for anodized color options (the material and design upgrades did not impact the IP68 rating, and, yes, I ran the phone under water to no ill effect).

I don't know where Apple got the idea for Cosmic Orange, but I actually love it. It's bold without being garish. There's also Silver (a blah throwback) and the very deep and inky Deep Blue. Apple sort of explained its color choices to me, and even the loss of black, but I think this is just Apple mixing things up and, possibly, giving a nod to all the pro-level folks who buy this phone for creative pursuits. Orange is a color that will get you noticed.

Design score: 5 / 5

Apple iPhone 17 Pro Max review: Display

Excellent Super Retina XDR display
It's brighter than ever
A new anit-reflective coating

iOS 26's Liquid Glass interface might lead you to assume there's been some radical display overhaul; so much glow, shiny, and artificial transparency. However, that would be mostly wrong. The platform update does change the look, but it's all still working with the same materials.

The iPhone 17 Pro Max's expansive 6.9-inch Super Retina XDR OLED is largely the same as last year's, featuring a resolution of 2868 x 1320 pixels for a density of 460ppi. The ProMotion technology still automatically ranges from 1Hz to 120Hz, and it's 'always-on', which means that even when you're in bed you can make out the time and have glanceable notifications.

It's not, though, exactly the same screen. This display now ranges up to 3,000 nits – that's 1,000 more than the last model. In my side-by-side tests, the iPhone 17 Pro Max is more visible in direct sunlight. This effect is assisted by a new reflective coating, meaning the light bouncing off the screen is also less noticeable. These are nice, and not necessarily insignificant, upgrades.

With a narrow bezel (no change from last year), the Super Retina display comes preciously close to meeting that orange metal, with a vast expanse of color and entertainment interrupted only by the pill-shaped Dynamic Island.

Made up of the new Center Stage Camera and Face ID sensors, it remains a useful space for live information, but it's also sometimes a black blob cutout in games, videos, and photos. I find the information it provides useful, so I do not mind it much, but I was also hoping for a redesign that might have shrunk the thing by 50%. This is a minor quibble, and I'm sure that, like me, you probably won't notice or be bothered by it very much (and that, also like me, you'll appreciate the info updates).

Otherwise, photos, videos, games, websites, productivity tools, and whatever you view on the display look fantastic. It's a butter-smooth screen when it needs to be, and thanks to the wide color and 2,000,000:1 contrast ratio, images pop and blacks are as inky and dark as you would hope they'd be.

Display score: 4.5 / 5

Apple iPhone 17 Pro Max review: Cameras

Apple's best camera array ever
Photos and videos are impressive
Center Stage camera changes selfies forever
This is the telephoto you've been waiting for
Redesigned camera app will confuse and frustrate some

Apple's redesigned Plateau is not just an aesthetic choice; it's a practical one. Underneath that now larger, raised platform is a lot of technology, including a new tetraprism to support Apple's longest and highest resolution telephoto lens ever. It's simply one highlight of a stellar iPhone 17 Pro Max camera system.

There are a total of four cameras, with Apple calling the rear trio 'Fusion Cameras':

Main: 48MP f/1.78
Ultra-wide: 48MP f/2.2
Telephoto: 48MP (4x optical) f/2.8
Selfie camera: 18MP

Those specs only tell half the story. In general, you're not shooting at the full-frame 48MP resolution, or rather, you might be using all 48 million pixels to produce a high-quality 24MP (the default for the main camera) or even 12MP to produce an 8x optical-quality sensor crop (on the telephoto camera). The ultra-wide will, by default, shoot 12MP macro photos.

In virtually every instance, this is a case where less is more (or fewer pixels add up to more). Apple uses all that pixel information and its remarkable image pipeline to deliver fantastic photos with true-life colors and exquisite detail.

Image 1 of 2

Apple iPhone 17 Pro Max REVIEW photo samples — A telephoto shot (Image credit: Lance Ulanoff / Future)

Image 2 of 2

I spent an inordinate amount of time shooting with the 4x and 8x zoom lenses, capturing still lifes and long-distance shots. I think the flower photos I captured from a few feet away are just as impressive as the New York City skyline pictures I snapped through the window from an airplane aisle seat. Those latter are notable not only for the detail but for the speed of the lens, which somehow managed to not blur the entire shot.

Since 8x is equivalent, according to Apple, to a 200mm lens, the camera app helps you with a small viewfinder on top of the main one to see where in the 4x frame you're looking; it's a helpful feature for keeping the context of the frame. By the way, the optical image stabilization does a good job of holding the telephoto frame steady.

Image 1 of 2

Image 2 of 2

Night photography is better than ever. When I wanted to capture an image of the Twin Tower lights that NYC lights once a year on 9-11, I needed the iPhone 17 Pro Max's 8x optical quality zoom and, naturally, the image pipeline behind it to get the shot. The iPhone 16 Pro Max, which maxes out at 5x optical zoom but with just 12MP, just couldn't manage it.

There's also been a generational leap in portrait-mode photography, where I noticed visible improvements in some of the most challenging aspects of a portrait shot, like flyaway whips of hair and glasses frames. These are photos worthy of display.

Image 1 of 3

Image 2 of 3

Image 3 of 3

The selfie or TrueDepth camera is now the 18MP Center Stage Camera, and brings what might be the biggest overhaul to selfie photography since, well, the introduction of selfie cameras.

Apple iPhone 17 Pro Max REVIEW Center Stage — (Image credit: Lance Ulanoff / Future)

When I set up to take a group shot with my son and father, the iPhone 17 Pro Max automatically widened the frame. Normally, I would try to awkwardly hold the phone in landscape mode, but now there's a software button I select, which instantly rotates the frame 90 degrees into landscape mode. Yes, it's a game-changer.

Image 1 of 2

Image 2 of 2

If you don't know who's in focus on your portrait-mode shot, you can easily tap to bring someone or something else into focus. Plus, any photo can now be turned into a spatial scene, which turns the image into a stereoscopic wonder. I tried this with some selfie images in which someone was visibly seated behind me, and the results were very good.

Apple still doesn't support 8K video, but I also don't think anyone should care, since most of us are not watching 8K content (although perhaps it matters to some pros who want the editing possibilities offered by a much larger frame).

In any case, the iPhone 17 Pro Max's video capture capabilities remain excellent, with the ability to capture 4K at up to 120fps.

Image 1 of 10

Image 2 of 10

Image 3 of 10

Image 4 of 10

Image 5 of 10

Image 6 of 10

Image 7 of 10

Image 8 of 10

Image 9 of 10

Image 10 of 10

The Center Stage Camera uses its larger and now square sensor to keep selfie video steady, even if you're moving around. I ran around to give it a challenge, and the phone still managed to smooth out most of the bumps.

One of the quirkiest new features is Dual Capture. As the name suggests, this slightly hidden feature lets you use the front and back cameras simultaneously. The rear camera provides the main action, and you appear as a live picture-in-picture window that you can drag anywhere on the screen during filming. It's fun, even if the utility is not immediately obvious. I actually had some fun using it at a wedding, but I do wish that I could edit the two streams separately post-filming.

I'm not a pro videographer, but I was curious to try out the new Genlock feature, which is supposed to keep multiple video streams synchronized. I was able to connect an iPhone 17 Pro and the 17 Pro Max, both running a new version of Final Cut Camera, to an iPad Pro running the iPadOS 26 public beta and Final Cut Pro. The iPad app let me tap one button to simultaneously launch recording in both phones, and the resulting combined stream ended up on the iPad.

After my first try resulted in two videos that were not in perfect sync, I gave it a second shot, and made sure to check that both phones were recording audio. This worked, and now I could edit each stream while not losing the synchronization to make a pretty cool multi-cam video.

The Camera app, by the way, is among the many redesigns you'll find in iOS 26, and I'm not sure I love it. It hides some of the camera options like Pano and Portrait, though you only have to touch the Photo button and slide it to find them again. The options button is now a tiny grid icon in the upper right-hand side that's easy to miss. We'll all learn these new controls, but we may grumble about them for a little while.

That aside, this is undoubtedly Apple's best camera array yet, offering unprecedented versatility for the iPhone line and producing stellar image quality across a range of styles.

Image 1 of 4

Image 2 of 4

Image 3 of 4

Image 4 of 4

Camera score: 5 / 5

Apple iPhone 17 Pro Max review: Software and Apple Intelligence

iOS 26 is so glassy
Apple Intelligence has some minor updates
Net positive updates across the board

Few things contribute to the new look and feel of the iPhone 17 lineup as much as iOS 26. Liquid glass adds a translucent sheen to almost every aspect of the platform, and mostly it's gorgeous. Apple has done an excellent job of programming pixels to look like glass.

Sometimes, though, the transparency is overdone, and I struggled to make out some interface elements. Think of it this way: when you can see through one element to view another, it can occasionally increase the overall clutter and make some things visually confusing. For example, when you swipe down on the screen to access global search, the search box still faintly shows what's behind it, which makes what's on top of it – what you're typing – a little harder to read. It's a small issue that Apple could easily address in the next iOS update.

In some cases, though, like the new first-party app icons, Control Center, and dock, iOS 26 is a welcome update that gives everything a little polish without throwing out the most recognizable elements.

Apple Intelligence gets a few updates, like Live Translation and the ability for images captured through Visual Intelligence to be transformed into calendar entries. I played a bit with Genmoji and Image Playground to experience those upgrades, but they're mostly minor, and I still await the fully-featured Siri that Apple has promised.

Software score: 4.5 / 5

Apple iPhone 17 Pro Max review: Performance

A19 Pro raises the bar, again
12GB leaves headroom for future Apple Intelligence performance improvements
The new heat management system is a winner

The iPhone 17 Pro and iPhone 17 Pro Max might represent the most radical redesign of the iPhone in terms of internal components we've seen in quite some time.

In a way, Apple's external changes (replacing titanium with aluminum) are directly connected to those updates.

Let's start, though, with the A19 Pro chip, which is now supported by 12GB of RAM. It's a formidable combo, and in our benchmarks it raised the bar for single and multi-core Geekbench scores while also boosting things like frame rates in games.

The A19 features a 6-core CPU and GPUs. On the GPU side, each core features its own Neural accelerator.

Image 1 of 3

Image 2 of 3

Image 3 of 3

It's a system that ably handles 4K video editing and AAA game play with equal aplomb. In games like Destiny Rising, reflections and atmospherics, like fog and smoke, match what you might see on a console.

What's more remarkable, though, is that as you do all this, the phone remains relatively cool, and even if it gets a bit warmer in general, there's no one identifiable hot spot. That's down to the new heat management system, which includes a long and narrow vapor chamber that sits on top of the A19 Pro, which is placed near the center of the iPhone 17 Pro Max's body. As the A19 Pro heats up, the water inside the vapor chamber absorbs the heat, vaporizing the water, which then condenses on the other end of the chamber. The process repeats continuously to manage and transfer the heat out across the chassis and to the more heat-efficient aluminum frame.

It's that kind of heat management that helps the phone maintain a high level of performance and, in my estimation, positively impacts battery life.

Performance score: 5 / 5

Apple iPhone 17 Pro Max review: Battery

Better battery life than ever
Qi 2 support
Spend for the faster adapter

Apple combines that power and efficiency with a larger battery to provide, potentially, multi-day battery life.

Now, in my experience, I went over 30 hours (it's rated for 39 hours) before I needed to charge the phone. However, I think it's too early to make a final assessment on battery life. I know my phone is busy copying 30,000 emails, updating photo libraries, and more background tasks relating to initial setup.

In truth, I don't think I'll fully understand typical battery life for another month. In the meantime, I can tell you that battery life appears good, if not better, than the last generation, and your mileage may vary.

Expect Q2 wireless charging, which, if you have a Qi2 charger, will be faster. The wired charging is faster, too, but remember you'll need to buy your own higher-wattage wall charger (a $39 40W-to-60W adaptive charger) to achieve those charge speeds. In my experience, I was able to charge the phone to 50% in just 20 minutes. Too bad this adapter (and not just the USB-C charge cable) isn't included in the package.

In the communication space, this is, in the US, an eSIM-only phone that supports dual-SIMs and makes transferring phone numbers across devices a snap. There's more good news, like WiFi 7 support, Bluetooth 6, and Emergency Satellite communication, which, at the time of this writing, is still free.

Battery score: 4.5 / 5

Should you buy the Apple iPhone 17 Pro Max?

Apple iPhone 17 Pro Max score card
Attributes	Notes	Rating
Value	More power, fresh design and better camera while holding the line on price.	4 / 5
Design	New look, materials, and color while still undeniably iPhone.	5 / 5
Display	Apple holds the line on its display technology but enhances it just enough with a brighter and more resilient screen.	4.5 / 5
Software	iOS 26 brings Liquid Glass to virtually every corner of the iPhone with mostly positive results. We could do with some less translucency in a few spots. Apple Intelligence improves but we await the full-boat Siri experience.	4.5 / 5
Camera	Three fantastic cameras produce eye-popping images across a range of shooting styles. Happiness is the new 4x/8x zoom lens.	5 / 5
Performance	Apple's A19 Pro chip is fast and effective in every scenario. It may be especially adept at local AI operations. The new heat management system helps keep the system relatively cool to the touch.	5 / 5
Battery	Anecdotal battery tests provided 30-hours plus of battery but lab tests are lower.	4.5 / 5

Buy it if...

You want the best iPhone
There's no question that this is the best iPhone Apple has ever produced and while the iPhone 17 Pro is essentially the same phone, this is the one that offers the biggest screen and best battery life.

You want pro-level photography
Apple may not always beat competitors on the pure megapixel front but this phone produces some of the bets photos I have ever seen from a smartphone.

Don't buy it if...

You were looking for a more affordable iPhone
The iPhone 17 Pro Max is no more expensive than its predecessor but that doesn't make it cheap. If you want the same performance for less, check out the iPhone 17 Pro Max.

You want the ultimate in AI
Apple Intelligence is a decent start in the AI space, but it pales in comparison to Google Gemini (found on Pixel phones) and GalaxyAI (and Gemini) on Samsung Galaxy AI.

Apple iPhone 17 Pro Max review: Also consider

Apple's latest flagship iPhone not exciting you? Here are three alternatives from the Android frontier.

Google Pixel 10 Pro
The Pixel 10 Pro is a fantastic addition to the Pixel line, with useful new features like magnetic charging and AI tools that are helpful and not overbearing. There is still room for improvement, particularly in terms of performance and battery life, but this is one of the best smartphones you can buy, aside from the Pixel 10 Pro XL.

Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 7
For powerful versatility a surprisingly thin and light frame, nothing beats the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 7. It has excellent cameras, two screens, and powerful AI features. It's also considerably more expensive that the iPhone 17 Pro Max.

Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra
Samsung's ultimate Android phone is a welcome mixure of design and power that, yes, still brings the titanium. Ther'es also that 200MP sensor, something the iPhone 17 Pro Max still doesn't boast.

How I tested the Apple iPhone 17 Pro Max

Review test period: I received the phone on September 9 and tested it through September 16.
Testing included: everyday use, photography, video calling, gaming, streaming video, music playback, and testing Apple Intelligence
Tools used: Geekbench 6, Geekbench AI, 3DMark

I tested the iPhone 17 Pro Max (and iPhone 17 Pro) alongside my iPhone 16 Pro Max. I took it with me everywhere and tried to use it as I would my own phone.

I've been testing smartphones for over 20 years, and I've been writing about the iPhone since it launched. I've also been tracking and writing about AI since the dawn of consumer-grade experiences more than a decade ago, and I've been covering technology for 39 years.

Apple iPhone 17 Pro: Two-minute review

The time when you had to make a tradeoff between the full-featured iPhone Pro Max and the iPhone Pro has long since passed. Today, the iPhone 17 Pro Max and the iPhone 17 Pro I'm reviewing here are fundamentally the same phone with only a few differences, and all of them relate to the size.

There's a smaller screen and therefore fewer pixels (but not a lower resolution). The battery on the iPhone 17 Pro is smaller, so you get fewer hours per charge. Finally, the storage options on the Pro top out at 1TB, while the iPhone 17 Pro Max goes up to 2TB.

With that in mind, virtually everything I say in my review of the iPhone 17 Pro Max is also true of this iPhone 17 Pro, right down to the fantastic camera system.

Apple iPhone 17 Pro REVIEW — (Image credit: Lance Ulanoff / Future)

This update is an inside-out refashioning, with a powerful new A19 Processor supported by a heat-wicking system in the form of a vapor chamber. I'm not sure it would have been as effective though, if not for the new aluminum unibody design, which helps distribute the heat throughout the chassis.

A reorganization of the components left more room for a larger battery, and that, in concert with the heat management system and new body, promises better battery life than before.

Inside, the A19 Pro makes every operation a breeze, as it easily handles everything from simple web browsing to 4K video editing and local AI operations.

We now get three 48MP cameras, including a stellar 4x optical zoom that's capable of an 8x optical sensor crop which also produces fantastic results.

The fact that you get all this in a more affordable and pocketable 6.3-inch package could make the iPhone 17 Pro the best choice for most who operate at a pro level.

Apple iPhone 17 Pro review: Price and availability

Starts at $1,099 / £1,099 / AU$1,999
Pre-orders opened on September 12, shipping from September 19

Apple announced the iPhone 17 Pro at its 'Awe Dropping' event on September 9. iPhone 17 Pro pre-orders began on September 12, and the new phone ships on September 19.

The iPhone 17 Pro starts at $1,099 / £1,099 / AU$1,999 for the model with 256GB of storage, with that price rising to $1,299 / £1,299 / AU$2,399 for 512GB of storage, and $1,499 / £1,499 / AU$2,799 for 1TB of storage. If you need a 2TB device, look at the iPhone 17 Pro Max.

Storage	US price	UK price	AU price
256GB	$1,099	£1,099	AU$1,999
512GB	$1,299	£1,299	AU$2,399
1TB	$1,499	£1,499	AU$2,799

sdsfsw

Value score: 5 / 5

Apple iPhone 17 Pro review: Specs

	iPhone 17	iPhone 17 Air	iPhone 17 Pro	iPhone 17 Pro Max
Weight:	177g	165g	206g	233g
Display:	6.3-inch OLED	6.5-inch OLED	6.3-inch OLED	6.9-inch OLED
Resolution:	2622 x 1206	2736 x 1260	2622 x 1206	2868 x 1320
Refresh rate:	120Hz	120Hz	120Hz	120Hz
Peak brightness:	3,000 nits	3,000 nits	3,000 nits	3,000 nits
Chipset:	A19	A19 Pro	A19 Pro	A19 Pro
Rear cameras:	48MP wide (26mm, ƒ/1.6), 48MP ultra-wide (13 mm, ƒ/2.2)	48MP wide (26mm, ƒ/1.6)	48MP wide (24mm, ƒ/1.78), 48MP ultra-wide (13 mm, ƒ/2.2), 48MP telephoto (8x optical zoom)	48MP wide (24mm, ƒ/1.78), 48MP ultra-wide (13 mm, ƒ/2.2), 48MP telephoto (8x optical zoom)
Front camera:	18MP (ƒ/1.9)	18MP (ƒ/1.9)	18MP (ƒ/1.9)	18MP (ƒ/1.9)
Storage:	256GB, 512GB	256GB, 512GB, 1TB	256GB, 512GB, 1TB	256GB, 512GB, 1TB, 2TB
Colors:	Black, White, Mist Blue, Sage, Lavender	Space Black, Cloud White, Light Gold, Sky Blue	Silver, Cosmic Orange, Deep Blue	Silver, Cosmic Orange, Deep Blue

Apple iPhone 17 Pro review: Design

A redesign that works
New materials bring new color and cooling possibilities
Control and Action Buttons didn't get a rethink

Apple's iPhone 17 Pro (and the 17 Pro Max) is instantly recognizable as an iPhone, but I still contend that this is the most significant redesign in ages. The bold, nearly full-width plateau (time to stop calling it a "camera bump") is distinctive and more attractive than I expected.

Honestly, who needs a phone that can lie flat on its back anymore? I'd argue that consumers (yes, people like me) are more interested in performance and possibilities than balance.

I was curious about the switch from titanium (a light and sturdy material) to aluminum (an even lighter and perhaps more pliable one), but I'm now convinced that this was a good swap with some obvious benefits.

The first of those is the color choices. You have silver (not that exciting), the wonderful Deep Blue of the phone I tested, and the new Cosmic Orange of my iPhone 17 Pro Max test unit. I love the latter two colors, and don't think they would have been possible without the anodization process.

Because the iPhone body is carved out of aluminum means the iPhone 17 Pro has smoother corners, making the entire phone feel more comfortable in my hands. This smaller phone will be especially appealing to those with smaller hands.

Image 1 of 5

Image 2 of 5

Image 3 of 5

Image 4 of 5

Image 5 of 5

On the back is a large rectangular cutout for the Ceramic Shield back (the screen gets Ceramic Shield 2). This creates a sort of two-tone look that I rather like. It almost seems a shame to cover it with Apple's new Tech Woven cases.

After a couple of generations of getting used to new iPhone buttons, the iPhone 17 Pro holds fast on the two volume buttons and the Action Button on one side, and the Power/Sleep/Siri button and Camera Control button on the other. There's no new functionality there, but some may still find the customizable Action button and instant access to photography and controls through Camera Control useful. Of the two, I use the Camera Control most for instant access to the camera and, sometimes, as a physical shutter button.

Like the iPhone 16 Pro before it, the iPhone 17 Pro is IP68 rated for exposure to dust and water. Drop it in the toilet or, as I did, run it under water, and it will survive.

There are a few other minor differences, like an antenna cutout on the top edge and a larger speaker grill on one side of the base. Perhaps that's why the audio can get so loud and resonant and sound just as good in a voice call as it does streaming Better Call Saul on Netflix.

Design score: 5 / 5

Apple iPhone 17 Pro review: Display

Super Retina XDR display still excellent
Brighter than ever
Possibly more resilient

While Apple took pains to remake the look and lines of the iPhone 17 Pro (and 17 Pro Max), it more or less left well enough alone with the Super Retina XDR display. This is not a problem since the OLED screen resolution, at 2622 x 1206 pixels, is still sharp and spectacular in almost every scenario.

Photos and videos look splendid on the screen thanks in part to its 2,000,000:1 contrast ratio and wide color gamut. It's a great platform for stills and for fast action of AAA games, where the 120Hz screen refresh keeps gameplay butter smooth.

Image 1 of 2

Image 2 of 2

The ProMotion technology not only provides that rapid refresh rate but can slow all the way down to 1Hz to support the always-on display, where I can see the time and my notifications on the sleep/lock screen.

This is a brighter screen, achieving 3,000 nits in direct sunlight. That combination with a new anti-reflective coating helped it beat the iPhone 16 Pro in my outdoor, direct-sunlight Netflix streaming tests.

As for the new Ceramic Sheiled 2 screen covering, I'm hesitant to rub any keys on it, but I will be curious to see what the display looks like two months from now.

The 6.3-inch display still features the Dynamic Island cutout, which provides space for the Face ID sensors and new Center Stage Camera. It's still larger than I'd like and appears in some games and videos as a black, pill-shaped cutout. If, like me, you appreciate the live information (like MLB scores) that space can provide, I doubt you'll be bothered by its existence.

Display score: 4.5 / 5

Apple iPhone 17 Pro review: Cameras

Three excellent rear 48MP cameras
Zoom is finally where I need it to be
Front-facing Center Stage Camera changes the selfie game

Apple has rewarded my fixation on photography with the three best 48MP lenses I have ever seen on an iPhone (plus an excellent new selfie camera). The list of lenses is identical across the Pro-line, which makes them no less desirable. FWIW, Camera performance on the iPhone 17 Pro and 17 Pro Max appears identical. Here's the list of physical lenses.

Main: 48MP ƒ/1.78
Ultra-wide: 48MP ƒ/2.2
Telephoto: 48MP (4x optical) ƒ/2.8
Selfie camera: 18MP (not called "Fusion")

The main camera defaults to shooting at 24MP, but you can shoot at full resolution or as a 2x optical sensor crop, which takes the best 12MP from the full 48MP for the final image.

The ultrawide also defaults to 24MP, while the same lens will shoot macro images at 12MP.

For me, though, the most exciting addition is the new 48MP 4x optical zoom lens that shoots 24MP, 100mm-equivalent photos and can, with another optical sensor crop, also shoot 12MP, 8x zoom photos. Even though the latter is not a true 8x optical zoom lens, it captures images like one.

Image 1 of 5

Image 2 of 5

Image 3 of 5

Image 4 of 5

Image 5 of 5

I was consistently impressed with the detail I could capture. In my experience, the best lens of the bunch is the 4x optical. It's great for portraits and still life.

The image quality across the multiple lenses and shooting styles owes credit, in part, to Apple's fantastic image pipeline. It gathers and processes so much information, but never turns an image into AI mush or an approximation. Images offer true colors and exquisite detail.

Image 1 of 2

Apple iPhone 17 Pro REVIEW photo samples — (Image credit: Lance Ulanoff / Future)

Image 2 of 2

Portrait mode photography looks better than ever. I was especially impressed with how the cameras handled hair and lens frames. Every shot looked pro-quality.

The other major photographic highlight is the new Center Stage Selfie camera. Where the True Depth Camera was an able 12MP system, the Center Stage Camera is backed by a square 18MP sensor. It uses those extra pixels to automatically put groups in frame by zooming out a bit.

Better yet, this is the first smartphone selfie camera in my experience to let you turn from a portrait to a landscape mode selfie without turning the phone 90 degrees. Instead, you just tap a software button, and, yes, it works with photos and video. It's brilliant and I expect other smartphone competitors to follow suit.

Image 1 of 16

Image 2 of 16

Image 3 of 16

Image 4 of 16

Image 5 of 16

Image 6 of 16

Image 7 of 16

Image 8 of 16

Image 9 of 16

Image 10 of 16

Image 11 of 16

Image 12 of 16

Image 13 of 16

Image 14 of 16

Image 15 of 16

Image 16 of 16

I shot in all kinds of lighting conditions, from bright and sunny to cloudy, rainy, and even nighttime darkness. Night photography is even better than ever. This was the phone I used to capture the 9-11 Memorial Lights (the city is 50 miles away). It was a feat I could not reproduce with the iPhone 16 Pro.

You can shoot video in 4K (up to 120fps). It looks good, especially because the sensor shift optical image stabilization handles even the roughest road.

During my first day with the phone, there was a huge rainshower, which I took as my cue to retry Audio Mix, Apple's AI-based audio cleanup tool. The rain shower was so loud that it pretty much overwhelmed my baseline video. All I had to do was select one of the options (In-Frame, Studio, Cinematic), and the iPhone 17 Pro did an excellent job of elevating my voice over the din. It does sound a bit processed, but also usable, which is not something I can say of the original video.

One other new feature that you might enjoy (or wonder why it's there) is Dual Camera. As the name suggests, this slightly hidden feature lets you shoot video with both the front and rear cameras. Your selfie video view appears as a small, movable window on top of the main video, presumably so you can offer commentary on the action. I used it at a wedding and found it fun, if not super useful.

Image 1 of 1

Apple iPhone 17 Pro review dual cam — Put yourself in the video with dual cam (Image credit: Lance Ulanoff / Future)

The new camera app is so different that it might, at first, confuse people. A lot of what you would normally see when first opening the app is hidden. But, for instance, a touch and slide on the word "Photo" quickly reveals how you can slide to find all your main photography options.

In short, you will get used to it.

As a package, this is by far the best camera array (including the front camera) Apple has ever produced. It shoots fantastic images that will make you the envy of all your friends. Plus, with its 4K Dolby Vision, it's a pro-level video platform.

If I needed any more proof that this is a pro-videoographer tool, I got it when I tested out Genlock support, which lets you capture and automatically sync multiple video streams.

To test this, I hooked up the iPhone 17 Pro and iPhone 17 Pro Max video via a wireless connection to an iPad Pro 13. The iPad was running a FlightTest version of Final Cut Pro for iPad, and the phones were running Tesflight versions of Final Cut Cameras.

Final Cut on the iPad presented me with a single record button, and when I hit it, both cameras started to record. I was capturing two angles at once, and Final Cut presented them as two linked streams that I could edit to create a very nice pro-level, multicam video.

Apple iPhone 17 Pro camera samples

Image 1 of 7

Image 2 of 7

Image 3 of 7

Image 4 of 7

Image 5 of 7

Image 6 of 7

Image 7 of 7

Camera score: 5 / 5

Apple iPhone 17 Pro review: Software and Apple Intelligence

iOS 26
Apple Intelligence adds some new features
The ultimate Siri still MIA

There may never be a more beautiful iOS than iOS 26. Liquid Glass, which glistens from almost every virtual surface, looks both polished and exciting. It's quite the programming feat to make pixels look like glass, giving unexpected substance to, for instance, buttons and widgets.

Generally, I am a fan, except for the times where Liquid Glass's fundamental translucency makes for a cluttered image. If you can see what's behind a text-entry box when you're trying to type in it, it can get a little confusing. I'm certain Apple can offer some Liquid Glass transparency adjustment in a future update.

Last year's star, Apple Intelligence, gets a few updates, like a better Image Playground and upgraded Visual Intelligence, which can instantly take info gleaned from an image and add it to your calendar.

Clean Up remains an impressive image editing tool. In one instance, I used it to remove a rope from in front of a horse. I drew one glowing line over the thin white fabric, then tapped the screen, and it disappeared, leaving the horse unscathed (and his face filled in) behind.

Image 1 of 2

Apple iPhone 17 Pro REVIEW Clean Up — Clean Up is one of Apple's most useful AI-supported tools (Image credit: Lance Ulanoff / Future)

Image 2 of 2

But Apple Intelligence's capabilities still pale in comparison to what I can get with Google Gemini or from partner OpenAI (and ChatGPT). I await the day Siri becomes as conversational and system-aware as these other platforms.

Software score: 4.5 / 5

Apple iPhone 17 Pro review: Performance

A19 Pro is Apple's most powerful mobile CPU
12GB is the memory you need

Going by by specs alone, the A19 Pro is a bit of a beast:

6-core CPU with 2 performance and 4 efficiency cores
6-core GPU, each with its own Neural Accelerator
16-Core Neural Engine

Performance scores are, based on Future Labs benchmarks, unsurprisingly, considerably better than the A18 Pro. In fact, the SoC maxed out some of our frame rate tests.

These numbers are on display in every operation the phone performs. It's an able console-grade gamer, playing Destiny: Rising with impressive levels of shading, reflections, fog, and fire. The A19 Pro's hardware-accelerated Ray Tracing surely has a hand in this.

There's now 12GB of RAM on board, which means there's likely more than enough headroom for ever-larger AI models. After all, Apple's preference is to do things like AI-assisted Live Translation locally.

Image 1 of 2

Apple iPhone 17 Pro REVIEW gaming — (Image credit: Lance Ulanoff / Future)

Image 2 of 2

This is an SoC that's completely comfortable both shooting and editing 4K video. It's a little powerhouse.

It's more, though, than just a workhorse. Apple's added a vapor chamber system that, along with the now more heat-efficient aluminum frame, helps capture heat off the chip and spread it throughout the iPhone 17 Pro body so there's no longer a hot spot.

In reality, this is one area where the smaller iPhone 17 Pro differs a bit from iPhone 17 Pro Max. I'm not sure if it's because there's more room in the iPhone 17 Pro Max, but it felt cooler in my tests than the iPhone 17 Pro, which got slightly warm to the touch during an intense Asphalt 9 Legends round.

Performance score: 5 / 5

Apple iPhone 17 Pro review: Battery

Battery life upgrade
Qi 2 support
No adapter included

All that efficiency and Apple reengineering the interior for a larger battery mean that this iPhone 17 Pro might have the best battery for an iPhone ever, leaving aside the larger iPhone 17 Pro Max, which is now flirting with 2-day battery range.

In my anecdotal tests, the iPhone 17 Pro gave me between 25 and 30 hours of battery life. Applw rates it for about 30 hours if you do nothing but stream video. Mixed use, especially lots of gameplay play will shorten the charge duration. Even so, this is the best batter life I've ever seen on a base Pro model. The combination of a more efficient CPU, a bigger battery, and the energy-saving heat management appears to be paying real dividends.

This is a Qi 2- compatible system, which means it charges faster on a Qi2-ready charge pad. The phone doesn't ship with a charging adapter, just the USB-C woven cable, but if you buy the new, optionL, Dynamic 40W (up to 60W) charger ($39), you can also expect faster wired charging speeds. When I tried it, I was able to charge to 50% in 20 minutes.

Battery score: 4.5 / 5

Should you buy the Apple iPhone 17 Pro?

Apple iPhone 17 Pro Max score card
Attributes	Notes	Rating
Value	A better phone is virtually every way for the same price as last year	5 / 5
Design	A refreshed design that also brings some performance dividends	5 / 5
Display	Display technology slight better thanks to more brightness and a toucher screen.	4.5 / 5
Software	iOS26 is gorgeous but someitmes a bit overdone. Still the overall software package, even without the ultimate Siri Apple Intlligence upgrade, is excellent.	4.5 / 5
Camera	The best camera array Apple has ever produced	5 / 5
Performance	A19 Pro is powerful and backed by more memory than every. Ready for any task.	5 / 5
Battery	A bigger battery means 30 hours of operation is possible.	4.5 / 5

Buy it if...

You want Apple Pro-level mobile power but not the size or price best
The iPhone 17 Pro is everything you can get from a Pro Max. All you lose is a bigger screen, crazy-long battery life, and the option to have 2TB of storage.

You want the best cameras Apple has ever produced
Great lenses, excellent image pipeline add up to truly great photo capabilities.

Don't buy it if...

You demand the largest screen
Apple's iPhone 17 Pro has a nice 6.3-inch display but it's pretty small compared to the iPhone 17 Pro Max's 6.9-inch super Retina XDR display.

You need more space
The iPhone 17 Pro maxes out at 1TB of storage. The 17 Pro Max will give you 2TB...for a price, of course.

Apple iPhone 17 Pro review: Also consider

Apple's latest Pro iPhone not exciting you? Here are a few alternatives from the Android frontier.

How I tested the Apple iPhone 17 Pro

Review test period: I received the phone on September 9 and tested it through September 16.
Testing included: everyday use, photography, video calling, gaming, streaming video, music playback, and testing Apple Intelligence
Tools used: Geekbench 6, Geekbench AI, 3DMark

I tested the iPhone 17 Pro (and iPhone 17 Pro Max) alongside my iPhone 16 Pro Max. I took it with me everywhere and tried to use it as I would my own phone.

DJI Mini 5 Pro: one-minute review

When I tracked the seemingly constant flow of DJI Mini 5 Pro rumors ahead of its official unveil, which included exciting speculation about its sensor and safety feature upgrades, I had one question in mind: 'will it still be under 250g?'

A weighty issue

The Mini 5 Pro is officially a restriction-free drone and available in most regions. However, US fans miss out again as the Mini 5 Pro is not available at launch, and the FAA is taking a firm stance on the drone's actual take off weight, which could exceed the sub 250g limit of the beginner category, and therefore come with restrictions. (Many online reviewers have shown the Mini 5 Pro tipping the scales at 253g.) Want to know more? We asked several drone regulators covering key regions for their stance on the Mini 5 Pro.

I've now had my hands-on the latest flagship mini drone and can happily say that DJI has done it, by a whisker. The 249.9g Mini 5 Pro is officially a C0 / UK1 category drone (both regions allow for a little margin, too) and it features a 1-inch sensor (much larger than the Mini 4 Pro's), versatile camera and class-leading safety features, now with LiDAR.

If anything, the Mini 5 Pro reads like a shrunk down DJI Air 3S. They both feature a main camera with 1-inch sensor, 4K video up to 120fps, DJI's D Log M color profiles and 14EV dynamic range.

They also both utilize omnidirectional object sensing and front-facing LiDAR for class-leading low-light flight safety features, including the superb return to home (RTH) function. Plus there's the neat 360° ActiveTrack, which keeps your subject in the center of the frame – DJI has refined this mode in the Mini 5 Pro and it performs really well.

The Mini 5 Pro's camera is super versatile, too – it sits on a 3-axis gimbal for smooth footage even in moderate wind and offers a 225 degree range of roll rotation; the upshot is that you can switch from horizontal to vertical recording at the push of a button.

DJI Mini 5 Pro in pilot's hand, grass background — Despite featuring a large 1-inch sensor and LiDAR sensing, the Mini 5 Pro still officially weighs less than 250g. (Image credit: Tim Coleman)

Honestly, it's hard to find fault with the Mini 5 Pro – no other drone close to this size and weight is even a remote match, DJI's own Mini 4 Pro runs the Mini 5 Pro closest but the latest model is a big upgrade.

I own the Mini 4K, DJI's cheaper entry-level drone. There are a few shared features but if you're a first time buyer, I think it's worth forking out extra for the Mini 5 Pro instead – it's a big upgrade – especially for object sensing which transforms how and where you fly.

There's also a case for the Mini 5 Pro over the Air 3S. Sure, the weightier all-rounder has dual cameras, longer flight times and higher wind resistance, but the Mini 5 Pro now shares a lot of the same tech.

That's enough comparing for now. For me it's already simple – the DJI Mini 5 Pro is the best sub-250g drone and has earned its place in my best drones and best beginner drones guides.

@techradar
♬ original sound - TechRadar

DJI Mini 5 Pro's ND filter set, with battery charging hub in the background — The ND filter kit with its ND 8, ND 16 and ND 32 filters, and the charging hub and two batteries behind it, plus the RC 2 controller. (Image credit: Tim Coleman)

DJI Mini 5 Pro: price and release date

Standard bundle costs £679 / AU$1,119
Two Fly More Combo kits available: with screen or screen-less controller
No US pricing or availability at launch

Despite improved features including the larger 1-inch sensor and LiDAR, the Mini 5 Pro essentially costs the same as the Mini 4 Pro, which is two years old. Put simply, the latest model is excellent value.

The base DJI Mini 5 Pro package costs £689 / AU$1,1119. However, I would almost always go for the Fly More Combo instead (I'll explain later), which adds a charging hub and two additional batteries to the bundle.

There are two Fly More Combo bundles to choose from: one with the screen-less DJI RC-N3 controller for £869 / AU$1,419 (you'll need to connect and use your phone's display, loaded with DJI's app, for this controller), or one with the fancier DJI RC 2 controller for £979 / AU$1,699.

I've got bad news if you're in the US – there's no Mini 5 Pro pricing or availability at launch. I expect various independent retailers to get stock at some point, but pricing is an unknown.

Price score: 5/5

DJI Mini 5 Pro in flight with trees in the background — (Image credit: Tim Coleman)

DJI Mini 5 Pro: specs

DJI Mini 5 Pro specs
Camera:	50MP 1-inch CMOS sensor
Video resolution:	4K
Frame rates:	4K up to 120fps, Slow motion Full HD up to 240fps
Video transmission range:	04+ for 20km (FCC), 10km (CE/SRRC/MIC)
Flight modes:	Cine, Normal, Sport. 360° ActiveTrack. QuickShots (Dronie, Helix, Rocket, Circle and Boomerang)
Battery:	2,788mAh / up to 36 minutes flight time.
Charger type:	USB-C / Battery Charging Hub
Weight:	8.81oz / 249.9g
Dimensions:	157×95×68 mm (folded), 255×181×91 mm (unfolded)

DJI Mini 5 Pro: Design

Registered weight is 249.9g (but ±4g adds confusion)
Omnidirectional object sensing and front-facing LiDAR
3-axis gimbal with 225 degree roll rotation range

DJI has one non-negotiable with its mini series of drones – keep the body under 250g. This latest iteration has pushed this mission to the max: the Mini 5 Pro weighs 249.9g. Technically, the takeoff weight can vary ±4g (depending on the batch you get, says DJI), so yours could be 253g. However, the Mini 5 Pro is officially classed a C0 / UK1 (sub-250g) drone in Europe and the UK, so such discrepancies are a moot point. However, the FAA has taken a hard line, so any users there (able to get one) could need to get registered before using the Mini 5 Pro.

In addition to the larger 1-inch sensor, which I'll get onto in the next section, the Mini 5 Pro adds front-facing LiDAR to omnidirectional object sensing. The latter is already a class-leading safety feature, and one you won't find in cheaper models such as DJI's own Mini 4K.

Personally, I think paying extra for object sensing is worth it – it's a miracle that my own Mini 4K, which lacks this feature, is still functional after multiple collisions with tree branches and the like.

Now, with the addition of LiDAR, the Mini 5 Pro should sense better than the Mini 4 Pro in low light. That's not something I've specifically tested in this drone, yet, but the Air 3S has this feature and you feel you can push that drone harder than the Air 3 it replaced.

Image 1 of 4

Image 2 of 4

Close up of the DJI Mini 5 Pro drone's camera — (Image credit: Tim Coleman)

Image 3 of 4

Close up of the DJI Mini 5 Pro drone's LiDAR and object sensing sensors — (Image credit: Tim Coleman)

Image 4 of 4

Close up of the DJI Mini 5 Pro's underside — (Image credit: Tim Coleman)

The camera unit impresses, too. As before, it sits on a 3-axis gimbal which smooths out your live view during flight and any recorded video. The gimbal has a versatile 225-degree range of roll rotation, enabling you to switch between horizontal and vertical capture.

I was testing the Mini 5 Pro Fly More Combo RC 2 kit, which includes the controller with a screen. On the underside of the controller is a button that switches the camera between horizontal orientation (typically for long-form content) and vertical (for quick social cuts like TikTok and YouTube Shorts) with a single click.

Image 1 of 2

DJI Mini 5 Pro drone rested on a wooden crate alongside the RC 2 controller — I had the luxury of the RC2 controller for my review. (Image credit: Tim Coleman)

Image 2 of 2

I also had the Mini 5 Pro with the dedicated set of three ND filters. Depending on the frame rates you choose, and the weather, you'll likely need to use one to balance exposure for video.

For example, if it's sunny and you're shooting 4K 30fps, you'll probably need an ND to avoid blowing out highlights. The practical downside is that the filters are set strengths, rather than variable (ND8, ND16 and ND32), so once you're in the air you've made your bed.

The need for filters is because lens aperture of the main camera is fixed to a bright f/1.8. A pricier drone such as the Mavic 4 Pro has a variable f/2-11 aperture, making less need for ND filters.

Other neat features that are new for the Mini 5 Pro include auto start up when you unfold the propellor arms, and that the propellor arms can be folded and unfolded in any order – both little details that speed up set up and packing away.

Design score: 4.5/5

DJI Mini 5 Pro: Features and performance

Effective 360° ActiveTrack subject tracking
2,788mAh battery for up to 36 minute flight time (less in reality)
Latest version of Return to Home

DJI says that its 360° ActiveTrack feature has been improved. I haven't tested the Mini 5 Pro against the Mini 4 Pro, so can't vouch for this, but I have used the feature for this test and it performs really well.

I threw on my running shoes and hit the trails in my local woodland, tracked by the Mini 5 Pro, and it was able to navigate overhanging branches with ease while keeping me in the center of the frame.

Return to home (RTH) is another essential drone feature and it performed flawlessly for my Mini 5 Pro flights. This included tricky tests such as retracing its flight path through tree cover over a small lake. It won't even need satellite signal to retrace the flight path, provided light is good.

The Mini 5 Pro is supplied with a 2,788mAh DJI Intelligent Flight Battery, which delivers flight times up to 36 minutes. The reality will almost always be less, especially when you factor in wind or the various battery-hungry features.

During moderately breezy conditions and shooting 4K 60fps video and making use of functions such as 360° ActiveTrack, I was getting more like 20 minutes in the air.

Such flight time limits are why I typically prefer the pricier Fly More Combo bundles – they are the most cost effective way to get a couple of extra batteries and effectively triple the fun.

DJI also sells an Intelligent Flight Battery Plus – the 4,680mAh unit extends flight times by around 30% versus the standard unit, but it's weightier and tips the Mini 5 Pro into the next weight category up, which comes with restrictions; legally, you need to get your region's equivalent of a competency certificate.

Top flight speeds and wind resistance are improved by about 10% versus the Mini 4 Pro – that's 18m/s to 16m/s in sport mode, and 12.7m/s to 10.6m/s wind resistance. Ascent speeds are much, much quicker with the Mini 5 Pro.

Performance score: 5/5

DJI Mini 5 Pro: Image and video quality

1-inch sensor delivers best-in-class image quality
50MP stills in RAW
Just a single camera, but with digital zoom up to 3x

The Mini 5 Pro shoots the best quality video I've seen in a sub-250g drone. It features a single camera which utilizes a 1-inch sensor for 4K 60fps video with 10-bit color depth, or slow motion recording up to 120fps, which can be upped to 240fps if you drop resolution to 1080p. For reference, the Mini 4 Pro maxes out at 100fps and 200fps respectively.

You can choose between various color profiles – a good-to-go standard look or DJI's D Log M, which needs grading. The latter gives you the most dynamic range to work with – DJI says up to 14EV – meaning you'll likely capture more tonal detail as a reward for your efforts in the editing suite.

When I compare video quality to that of the much cheaper Mini 4K drone, the 4K resolution is about where the comparison ends – the Mini 5 Pro's video quality is much better – you get the editing flexibility with D-Log M, and RAW photo capture. There's less of an image quality difference with the Mini 4 Pro, unless you are working in low light.

Image 1 of 9

DJI Mini 5 Pro sample photos: a woodland scene — Straight out of camera JPEG (Image credit: Tim Coleman)

Image 2 of 9

DJI Mini 5 Pro sample photos: an aerial view of a woodland — The main camera's complete view (Image credit: Tim Coleman)

Image 3 of 9

DJI Mini 5 Pro sample photos: an aerial view of a woodland with 3x digital zoom employed — The same scene with the 3x digital zoom employed (Image credit: Tim Coleman)

Image 4 of 9

DJI Mini 5 Pro sample images: male pilot in sunglasses, backlit — (Image credit: Tim Coleman)

Image 5 of 9

Image 6 of 9

DJI Mini 5 Pro sample images: aerial view of a woodland at night — (Image credit: Tim Coleman)

Image 7 of 9

DJI Mini 5 Pro sample images: aerial view of an autumnal arboretum — (Image credit: Tim Coleman)

Image 8 of 9

Image 9 of 9

As previously mentioned, the Mini 5 Pro can switch between vertical and horizontal format for photos and videos at the push of a button. In addition to the 4:3 apect photos above, I've included some vertical ones too, below.

Image 1 of 2

DJI Mini 5 Pro sample images: aerial view of a UK heathland as golden hour, walker on footpath — (Image credit: Tim Coleman)

Image 2 of 2

DJI Mini 5 Pro sample images: backlit pilot in heathland — (Image credit: Tim Coleman)

As usual, DJI's range of QuickShots are present and include Boomerang and Helix. These automated flight moves can make for super-dynamic clips when used smartly.

A level up from before, though, is a 225 degree roll. This 'MasterShots' move can also be performed automatically, although unlike other QuikShots moves, the drone doesn't return to its starting position once the rotation move is complete. I've included an array of those flight moves in the video, below.

One final point to make – the Mini 5 Pro includes 42GB of internal storage, whereas the Mini 4 Pro only includes 2GB. Could DJI add more? Sure, but 42GB is enough for more 4K video clips than you'd think.

Image and video quality score: 5/5

DJI Mini 5 Pro: testing scorecard

DJI Mini 5 Pro
Attributes	Notes	Rating
Price	Pricey for beginners, yes, but for the features on board, no other drone comes close. Not available in the US, though	5/5
Design	Decent upgrades over the Mini 4 Pro, but confusion over the actual take-off weight could be a dealbreaker	4.5/5
Performance	Superb all-round flight performance, safety features, return to home and auto tracking skills	5/5
Image and video quality	Sets the image quality bar for mini drones	5/5

Should I buy the DJI Mini 5 Pro?

Buy it if...

You want top safety features
No other mini drone has such complete object sensing, now complete with front-facing LiDAR sensing.

You want the best image quality from a mini drone
The 1-inch sensor delivers better overall image quality than the previous best sub-250g drone, the Mini 4 Pro

You want a versatile camera
With 225 degree roll rotation and instant switch between horizontal and vertical video recording, the Mini 5 Pro is a supremely versatile camera drone.

Don't buy it if...

You’d like multiple cameras
This is a single camera drone – the 3x zoom is digital from the main camera. If you want a proper telephoto lens, the Air 3S is the next model up to offer it.

You need to be sure of a sub 250g take-off weight
The Mini 5 Pro's take-off weight could be over 250g. Yes, it can be used as a restriction-free beginner drone in many regions, but the US has taken a hard line.

You just want to try drones out
I still believe the Mini 5 Pro is best drone for beginners (and pros alike wanting a second lightweight drone). However, it costs a lot for something you might not even enjoy – the Mini 4K could be a better first drone.

DJI Mini 5 Pro: also consider

DJI Mini 4K

At the opposite end of DJI's Mini series is the Mini 4K, which costs significantly less than the Mini 5 Pro – around 1/3 the price. It too shoots 4K video, is equipped with QuickShots flight moves, has decent battery life and weighs much less than 250g. However, you lose out on the higher frame rates, DJI's Log color profiles, object sensing and active subject tracking. Still, its flight performance is largely the same.

See my DJI Mini 4K reviewView Deal

DJI Air 3S

If you're happy to level up from the DJI's Mini series of drones with the weightier Air 3S, for which restrictions apply, then you'll get an all-round better experience once airborne. The Air 3S has better battery life and wind resistance, plus a second telephoto camera. However, its main camera is the same as the Mini 5 Pro's, as is the 4K video skills with D Log M color profile and 14EV dynamic range. What's more, the Mini 5 Pro's camera has a greater range of roll rotation for creative shots. The Air 3S is also pricier, although not by a whole lot.

See our DJI Air 3S reviewView Deal

How I tested the DJI Mini 5 Pro

DJI loaned me the DJI Mini 5 Pro Fly More Combo (RC 2)
I had it for several weeks to complete an in-depth review
I've piloted the drone with the RC 2 controller in sunny conditions with moderate wind and tested its tracking capabilities, plus QuikShots moves

I had the DJI Mini 5 Pro for a few days before its unveiling, and consequently for several weeks to complete my in-depth test. The flight conditions were generally sunny or overcast, and with moderate wind, which provided a stern test for the Mini 5 Pro's stability.

I've controlled the drone with the RC 2 controller which features a screen. I've taken multiple 4K 60fps videos in vertical and horizontal aspects, flicked between the cine, normal and sport flight modes and tested the 360° ActiveTrack through woodland and more.

I've shot video using both standard color profiles and DJI's D Log M color profile and graded the footage. During bright conditions I've used the ND 8 filter to balance exposure. I've also taken still images in RAW and JPEG, plus utilized the 3x digital zoom.

First reviewed: September 2025
Read more about how we test

The Casabrews 3700 Essential is a budget-friendly entry to espresso, but it trips on one too many hurdles

1:20 pm |

Author: admin | Category: Coffee Machines Computers Gadgets Home Small Appliances | Tags: UK, US | Comments: Off

Casabrews 3700 Essential: one-minute review

Casabrews hasn’t quite garnered the same brand recognition as names like De’Longhi or Breville. But given it was only founded in 2020, it’s natural we don’t see Casabrews machines dominating lists of the best espresso machines just yet.

It’s difficult to know what to expect from this relative new-kid-on-the-block, and in my experience testing Casabrews’ espresso machines so far, the brand’s line-up has been a real mixed bag. The 3700 Essential continues that legacy of leaving me conflicted. While it’s attractively designed, impressively compact, and delivers top-notch steamed milk; there’s just too little consistency when it comes to the espresso itself. Add to that a persistent problem of dripping and messes after pulling shots, and my feelings are totally split.

Casabrews 3700 Essential: price and availability

List price: $129.99 / £139.99
Available in the US and UK
Discounts available on Casabrews website

The Casabrews 3700 Essential is an affordable pick that’s undoubtedly on the lower end of budget espresso machines.

Those in the US can buy the Casabrews 3700 Essential at the Casabrews website or on Amazon, and regardless of where you choose to shop, it’ll usually set you back $139.99. That said, Casabrews frequently has discounts available on its range.

In the UK, you can still order from the Casabrews’ site though all prices are listed in dollars. Alternatively, you can pick it up from Amazon UK. However, your only color choices are silver and black, and the black variant costs $149.99.

Value score: 5/5

Casabrews 3700 Essential: specifications

Type	Semi-automatic espresso machine
Drink options	2 (single and double espresso)
Pump pressure	20 bar
Water tank capacity	43.9 oz / 1.24 liters
Steam wand	Yes, manual
Side (H x W x D)	12.5 x 5.7 x 12.6 inches / 31.75 x 14.48 x 32cm
Weight	10.25lbs / 4.65kg

Casabrews 3700 Essential: design

Suitable for tiny kitchens
Available in 5 colors (green, blue, silver, black, beige)
Some high quality details, some not so high quality

In many respects, the Casabrews 3700 Essential is basically a slightly cheaper twin of the Casabrews CM5418: they share the same portafilter size, almost the same dimensions, and have virtually identical functions. For the most part, all that sets them apart is a $10 price difference … and a pretty substantial disparity in performance (but we’ll get to that later).

The Casabrews 3700 Essential is an espresso machine that feels made to be space-savvy. A small footprint on a budget machine is almost always a great choice. After all, if you’re on the hunt for an espresso machine under $150 dollars you might be a student, someone trying to budget, or just not ready to dive headfirst into the world of espresso. No matter what your reason for opting for a low-cost machine, you likely don’t have tons of counter space, or don’t want to sacrifice it.

So, whether you have a cramped kitchen or want a caffeine fix in your office, the 3700 Essential fits the bill for a compact espresso machine, thanks to it coming in at less than six inches wide. It’s half an inch larger in the back than the CM5418 in the back though to accommodate a larger water tank though, which is a bit of a shame. To me, a larger tank is only ever really a bad thing, as it incentivises you going longer without changing your water – stagnant water isn’t ever a note you want to bring to your coffee.

Aside from the machine itself, you also get a one-shot pressurized basket, a two-shot pressurized basket, and a plastic tamp scoop. These accessories are pretty bare bones, but this is to be expected given the price. With the inclusion of two pressurized (or double-walled) baskets and no non-pressurized (or single-walled) baskets, the 3700 Essential should – in theory – deliver a more consistent output, even when using coffee that is too coarse or not freshly ground.

Design score: 4/5

Casabrews 3700 Essential: performance

Inconsistencies with espresso output
Beware of messes and drips
Steam wand performs ideally

None of the Casabrews machines I’ve tested so far have had a three-way solenoid valve to relieve pressure on the puck after extraction, but the CM3700 Essential appears to suffer the most from its absence. Post-pull dripping was a notable issue with it, even beyond the amount I had come to tolerate while using budget espresso machines. I also had issues with the puck appearing soupier than expected, and even experienced a nightmarish ‘portafilter sneeze’ which sent wet, gloopy grounds flying across my drip tray and work surface.

This is a minor annoyance in the grand scheme of things but it’s not difficult to find a similarly priced-machine that doesn’t suffer from these problems to the same degree. All of this meant that I had to remind myself to wait a little while after pulling a shot before removing (and cleaning) my portafilter to avoid having to drop sludge into my knock box. This is a deceptively simple request for someone like me, who’s likely to forget about it entirely, and find myself greeted by a gross crusty puck the next morning.

Thankfully, the side effects of excess portafilter pressure can be mitigated by getting properly accumulated to the rhythm of your machine. For the most part, you can avoid a big clean-up job once you figure out exactly when to stop your shot, when to remove your cup, how fine you can grind before your machine starts to ‘choke’, and when to safely and cleanly remove your portafilter. That knowledge comes with time and practice but I can’t help feeling like other machines I’ve tested took far less getting accustomed to.

The slightly messy fuss of the CM3700 Essential might feel worth it if I was consistently pleased with the espresso that came out of it. While I had high hopes based on my first shot, performance proved to be variable in the long run.

I had some difficulty getting a confident, clean tamp on my puck as the tamp scoop was light, awkward to wield, and ever so slightly smaller than for my basket. This meant I had to perform multiple tamping motions while shifting the tamp around the puck in order to flatten the full surface area. Obviously, this wasn’t ideal and I could see the puck getting slightly cracked with each new push, but I worked to get the best preparation I could despite my struggles.

Besides, pressurized baskets are designed to compensate for imperfect grind size or technique, essentially forcing a thicker crema and “pretty good” extraction even with suboptimal coffee and puck prep. That’s why so many entry-level machines include them. Thankfully, the pressurized basket had created a pleasant-looking layer of crema which—while not technically a sign of well-extracted espresso in this case– certainly looked the part. The taste was solid too: it had managed to produce something quite flavorful and pleasant to drink black, as is.

However, from that point on, espresso shots from the 3700 Essential proved to be more of a gamble. To be clear, I wasn’t expecting a $129 espresso machine to rival a top of the line model, but even by budget standards the fluctuations felt a tad extreme. I compared it directly with the Casabrews CM5418 (again, the 3700 Essential can’t escape the shadow of its more capable brother), and it produced more balanced results with the same beans and recipe. The 3700 Essential just doesn’t inspire confidence that I could get the same cup twice in a row, which is all you can really ask of your machine.

It’s not all doom and gloom though. My tinge of disappointment was softened by how well the machine handles steaming milk. Despite being a compact and inexpensive machine, the 3700 Essential delivers the kind of steam pressure and precision you need to produce silky microfoam, as well as airy cappuccino froth.

The steam wand is controlled by a knob on the side of the machine, and while it’s a small detail, I did appreciate the silicone grip around its perimeter. Not only does it feel more comfortable in my hand than steel or plastic but it offers better traction when turning, which is helpful for maintaining control while steaming. The last thing you’d want is to fumble when trying to turn the knob and end up burning your milk.

Performance score: 2.5/5

Image 1 of 4

Image 2 of 4

Image 3 of 4

Image 4 of 4

Should you buy the Casabrews 3700 Essential?

Casabrews 3700 Essential score card
Attribute	Notes	Score
Value	Affordable coffee machine that's definitely at the budget end of the market.	5/5
Design	Very compact machine, but accessories are very bare-bones.	4/5
Performance	Inconsistencies with espresso output, and messy drips, though steam wand works well.	2.5/5

Buy it if

You’re on a budget

There are few espresso machines that are quite so kind to your wallet as the Casabrews 3700 Essential. Even when compared to Casabrews’ already economical range, the 3700 Essential has the second lowest price tag out of any of the brand’s other machines.

You enjoy your coffee with flavored syrups

While testing it, I found that not every shot from the Casabrews 3700 Essential was a winner. However, even slightly ‘meh’ espresso can serve as a good base for flavored lattes. If espresso isn’t the star of the show in your favorite beverages, this machine should serve you just fine.

You’re big into milk-based drinks

If you’re looking for a machine with a steam wand that’ll let you make cappuccino foam or microfoam, the 3700 Essential has you covered. Its steam wand is comfortable to use and easy to get the hang of.

Don't buy it if

You’re a lover of espresso or black coffee

In my testing, the Casabrews 3700 Essential produced decent shots, but that quality wavered quite a bit. The output was never so bad as to be a total dealbreaker, but you’re not guaranteed the same drink every morning, no matter how closely you adhere to your usual technique.

You’re planning on getting into coffee as a hobby

A lot of the frustrations presented by the Casabrews 3700 Essential is likely to put you off the ritual of making your own espresso. What’s more, you’ll probably want to upgrade to another machine after a short while.

Casabrews 3700 Essential: also consider

If you're not sure that the Casabrews 3700 Essential is the right coffee maker for you, here are two alternatives to consider.

Breville / Sage Bambino

One of the most commonly-recommended espresso machines for beginners is the Breville Bambino (or Sage Bambino, as it’s called in the UK), and that’s for good reason. While the Bambino is certainly a rung above the Casabrews 3700 Essential in terms of price, it's likely to deliver a more satisfying intro into the world of espresso.

Read our full Breville / Sage Bambino review

Casabrews CM5418

As mentioned previously, the Casabrews CM5418 and the Casabrews 3700 Essential have a whole lot in common. The former is ever so slightly more expensive, but that extra cost is more than worth it given the upgrade in performance.

How I tested the Casabrews 3700 Essential

I tested the Casabrews 3700 Essential over a period of three weeks. During this time, I used it to brew espresso and steam milk.

Across my testing, I used light, dark, and omni-roasted fresh espresso beans bought from specialty coffee roasters. I adjusted my dose and grind size in pursuit of the best recipe for each variety. All beans were ground with the Baratza Encore ESP.

Steam wand functionality was tested by using fresh, full-fat dairy milk, semi-skimmed milk, and oat milk. After each steam, I made sure to purge and clean the wand to keep it clean and functional. For more details, see how we test, review, and rate products at TechRadar.

First reviewed September 2025

I reviewed Lenovo’s new Chromebook Plus and was enthralled by its design and performance – but I’m not sure it’s worth its Windows-laptop price tag

1:15 pm |

Author: admin | Category: Chromebooks Computers Computing Gadgets Laptops | Tags: Dell Inspiron | Comments: Off

Lenovo Chromebook Plus 14-inch review: Two-minute review

The Lenovo Chromebook Plus 14-inch is a high-end device, featuring a premium build and spec - with a price tag to match.

It looks very elegant, more so than other Chromebooks. It apes Apple’s MacBook line in all the right ways, with its sleek, rounded chassis and delectable materials. It’s also very thin and reasonably light, making it a cinch to carry around.

This really is one of the best Chromebook constructions I’ve seen. Every aspect screams quality, and there are a few atypical touches, such as the central protrusion on the top of lid to help with opening, and the wavy contours of the underside panel.

The lid is as smooth and as stable as I could’ve wished for, too, although it doesn’t open to a full 180 degrees. The bezel around the display is incredibly thin, which is always a positive.

You don’t get many interfaces on the Chromebook Plus 14-inch, although I was glad to see two USB-C ports, both of which can be used to charge the device and connect to external monitors, and placed either side for improved convenience. A USB-A port and a headset jack are the only others.

The Chromebook Plus 14-inch performs as well as its state-of-the-art design suggests. It can handle all manner of tasks, from light productivity to gaming, and the 16GB of RAM in my review unit made light work of multitasking.

Complementing this performance is the brilliant OLED display, which provides plenty of clarity, vibrancy, contrast, and brightness, with the latter helping to keep reflections at bay. It also has touch functionality, which works very well, if not quite on par with those on tablets and phones.

The touchpad, however, is the best I’ve used on a Chromebook: it’s unbelievably smooth, while its large dimensions and responsive inputs make navigation as easy as can be. The keyboard is also great to use, although I did have to acclimatize somewhat to the solidity of the keys themselves, but once I did, typing was an equally enjoyable experience.

Battery life is also superb, lasting about 14 hours in our movie playback test. Not many other Chromebooks can beat this, barring the odd few. It’s also very quick to charge.

All of these class-leading elements come at a price, however. The Chromebook Plus 14-inch is one of the most expensive Chromebooks around, straying into Windows-laptop territory – and ChromeOS simply can’t compete with these machines in terms of sheer versatility.

For this reason, it’s hard to recommend the Chromebook Plus 14-inch outright, unless you manage to catch it in a generous sale. But if you have your heart set on a Chromebook Plus and the money to spend, the Lenovo Chromebook Plus 14-inch won’t disappoint.

Lenovo Chromebook Plus 14-inch review: Price and availability

Close-up of keyboard on Lenovo Chromebook Plus 14-inch — (Image credit: Future)

$749.99 / £699 / AU$1,197
Available now
High end of the market

The Lenovo Chromebook Plus 14-inch costs $749.99 / £699 / AU$1,197 and is available now. Models with differing RAM and storage capacities are also available.

This is one of the most expensive Chromebooks on the market. At this price, the Chromebook Plus 14-inch rubs shoulders with some of the best laptops running Windows, which have far greater compatibility and customizability. The best value laptop as far as we’re concerned is the Dell Inspiron 14 Plus 7441, which we also compared favorably to a MacBook (specifically the Air model), owing to its thin and light design and commendable speed.

There’s also the HP Chromebook Plus 15, which we rate as the one of the best Chromebooks for students, thanks to its blistering performance by the standards of the sector. While it’s also expensive for a Chromebook, it’s still considerably cheaper than Chromebook Plus 14-inch, despite having a larger display.

Value: 2.5 / 5

Lenovo Chromebook Plus 14-inch review: Specs

My Lenovo Chromebook Plus 14-inch review unit had 16GB of RAM and 256GB of storage.

Price:	$749.99 / £699 / AU$1,197
CPU:	MediaTek Kompanio Ultra 910 (8 cores, 2.1GHz)
Graphics:	Integrated Arm Immortalis-G925 MC
RAM:	16GB LPDDR5x
Screen:	14" WUXGA (1920x1200) OLED 400nits Glossy, 100% DCI-P3, 60Hz, Glass, touchscreen
Storage:	256GB UFS 4.0
Ports:	2x USB-C (3.2 Gen 1, PD 3.0, DisplayPort 1.4), 1x USB-A (3.2 Gen 1), 1x headset jack
Wireless:	MediaTek Wi-Fi 7, Bluetooth 5.4
Camera:	5.0MP with privacy shutter
Weight:	2.78lbs (1.26kg)
Dimensions:	12.37 x 8.63 x 0.62in (314 x 219 x 16mm)

Lenovo Chromebook Plus 14-inch review: Design

Close-up of webcam on Lenovo Chromebook Plus 14-inch with hand touching the lid behind it — (Image credit: Future)

Fabulous construction
Takes cues from MacBooks
Not many ports

The Chromebook Plus 14-inch is expertly crafted. Its Apple-inspired appearance is more than surface-deep; its build quality rivals that of the best MacBooks, even featuring its own fingerprint scanner. Further similarities lay in the Chromebook Plus 14-inch’s thin and light body, which makes it easy to travel with.

But the Chromebook Plus 14-inch has some unique aspects that set it apart slightly. There’s a bulge in the center of the lid that makes it easier to open, while the underside is crinkled – quite why, I’m not sure; but I appreciated it nonetheless, as it feels oddly satisfying to hold.

The lid hinge is engineered to a high standard as well, offering smooth yet sturdy adjustments. The bezel around the screen is minimal, which I’m always pleased to see as it allows the display to make full use of its allotted space.

Even the power adapter is well designed, forgoing the mid-cable brick that many others are saddled with. It’s still something of a wall wart, though, and the length of brick directly behind the plug might make it unsuitable for certain setups.

Thankfully, it should prove thin enough to avoid infringing upon adjacent sockets. It’s a shame the cable itself isn’t that long, but it should suffice for most setups.

There are only four ports on the Chromebook Plus 14-inch, but two of them are USB-C, and both support charging and external display connections, which helps to make up for the lack of dedicated ports for these. They’re also located on either side, which makes the Chromebook Plus 14-inch conducive to a wider variety of setups. The other two interfaces are a USB-A (on the left) and a headset jack (on the right), which are always useful additions.

Design score: 5 / 5

Lenovo Chromebook Plus 14-inch review: Performance

Back of Lenovo Chromebook Plus 14-inch, open on desk with pink background — (Image credit: Future)

Fast all-round performance
Sharp and vibrant display
Super smooth touchpad

Benchmarks

Here are the benchmark results for the Lenovo Chromebook Plus 14-inch:

TechRadar Battery Life Test: 14 hours and 4 minutes
Jetstream2 Benchmark: 288.364
Kraken Benchmark: 398.8ms
Speedometer 3.1: 26.6 (±0.45)

The Chromebook Plus 14-inch is an excellent performer. It can handle light productivity with ease, while the 16GB of RAM in my review unit (quite a lot for a Chromebook) meant it could multitask without issue.

It can also stream 4K content seamlessly without endless pauses for buffering, as well as run some reasonably demanding mobile games. I played Asphalt Legends on high settings and Call of Duty: Mobile on max settings, and both ran as smoothly as I could’ve wished for. Alien: Isolation was a slightly less impressive experience, but it was still just as playable.

The OLED display is glorious, and easily among the best in this sector, rendering colors with fantastic vibrancy. It also has great contrast, and although reflections can reveal themselves at points, I found there’s enough brightness to eliminate the worst of them. The 1920 x 1200 resolution is pleasingly sharp, too, especially within its 14-inch frame.

Close-up of left-hand ports on Lenovo Chromebook Plus 14-inch, on desk with pink background — (Image credit: Future)

What’s more, the Chromebook Plus 14-inch also has touchscreen functionality. This works very well, thanks to how responsive and precise it is. It’s slightly more grabby than some of the best tablet screens, but only marginally, so keen illustrators and other stylus users will still find it smooth enough. It’s only a shame that a stylus isn’t included.

The keys on the Chromebook Plus 14-inch feel very tight and solid when pressed, which did take me some time to get used to. However, they’re incomparably stable, and their relatively deep indentations provide plenty of security and tactility.

With all this said, they still have a short and snappy actuation, and offer plenty of feedback thanks to their dampening. They’re also backlit, which is somewhat of a rarity on Chromebooks.

If anything, the touchpad on the Chromebook Plus 14-inch is even better. It has the silkiest surface of any Chromebook touchpad I’ve used, which makes gestures and navigation effortless. The latter is further aided by its relatively large size, too.

Performance score: 5 / 5

Lenovo Chromebook Plus 14-inch review: Battery life

Close-up of right-hand ports on Lenovo Chromebook Plus 14-inch on desk — (Image credit: Future)

The Chromebook Plus 14-inch has an exceptional battery life. It managed to last 14 hours when I played a movie on repeat from a full charge. This eclipses many of its rivals, including the HP Chromebook Plus 15, which only managed close to 11 hours.

However, it can’t beat the Lenovo IdeaPad Duet 5 Chromebook with its score of 16-plus hours, nor can it outlast the Dell Inspiron 14 Plus 7441, which achieved over 18 hours. It’s quick to charge, though, taking just 100 minutes to top up completely.

Battery life: 4.5 / 5

Should I buy the Lenovo Chromebook Plus 14-inch?

Attributes	Notes	Rating
Price	It’s one of the most expensive Chromebooks around, and comes dangerously close to mid-range Windows laptops.	2.5 / 5
Design	It’s hard to fault any aspect of its construction, and there are a few unique touches that only make it better.	5 / 5
Performance	There’s little the Chromebook Plus 14-inch can’t handle, from productivity and browsing to streaming and gaming.	5 / 5
Battery life	The Chromebook Plus 14-inch can outlast many of its rivals, with only a few exceptions.	4.5 / 5
Total Score	Chromebooks don’t come much better than this, but you’ll have to pay dear for the privilege – at which point non-ChromeOS devices might make more sense.	4 / 5

Buy it if...

You want the best Chromebook design
I haven’t come across a Chromebook built as well as this before; it’s just so thin and so premium.

You want the best Chromebook performance
Its powerful ARM CPU and 16GB of RAM make light work of all kinds of tasks, including 4K streaming and light gaming. The keyboard, touchpad, and touchscreen are all excellent to use as well.

Don't buy it if...

You’re on a budget
The Chromebook Plus 14-inch tops the Chromebook Plus market, and even encroaches on the Windows laptop space, which is a daring move.

You want plenty of connections
With only four ports – three of which are USB – those after more dedicated interfaces will be disappointed.

Lenovo Chromebook Plus 14-inch: Also consider

	Lenovo Chromebook Plus 14-inch	HP Chromebook Plus 15.6-inch	Dell Inspiron 14 Plus 7441
Price:	$749.99 / £699 / AU$1,197	$549.99 / £449.99 / AU$749	$949.99 (about £760 / AU$1,470)
CPU:	MediaTek Kompanio Ultra 910 (8 cores, 2.1GHz)	Intel Core i3-N305 (8 threads, 3.80GHz)	Snapdragon X Plus X1P-64-100
Graphics:	Integrated Arm Immortalis-G925 MC	Integrated, Intel UHD Graphics	Qualcomm Adreno GPU
RAM:	16GB LPDDR5x	8GB LPDDR5	16GB LPDDR5X
Screen:	14" WUXGA (1920x1200) OLED 400nits Glossy, 100% DCI-P3, 60Hz, Glass, touchscreen	15.6-inch FHD (1920 x 1080), 144Hz, 16:9 aspect ratio, non-touch screen	14″ QHD (2560 x 1600) @60Hz touchscreen
Storage:	256GB	128GB	256GB
Ports:	2x USB-C (3.2 Gen 1, PD 3.0, DisplayPort 1.4), 1x USB-A (3.2 Gen 1), 1x headset jack	1x USB-A, 2x USB-C, 1x microSD, 1x 3.5mm audio	2x USB-C 4, 1x USB 3.2, 1x microSD, 1x 3.5mm audio jack
Wireless:	MediaTek Wi-Fi 7, Bluetooth 5.4	MediaTek Wi-Fi 6, Bluetooth 5.3	Wi-Fi 7, Bluetooth 5.4
Camera:	5.0MP with privacy shutter	1080p FHD camera with privacy shutter	1080p at 30 fps FHD RGB,720p at 30 fps IR
Weight:	2.78lbs (1.26kg)	3.81lbs (1.73kg)	3.17lbs (1.40kg)
Dimensions:	12.37 x 8.63 x 0.62in (314 x 219 x 16mm)	14.28 x 9.5 x 0.78in (363 x 242 x 20mm)	0.58 ~ 0.0.62 x 12.36 x 8.81in (14.69 ~ 15.64 x 314 x 223.75mm)

Here are some equally-capable alternatives to the Lenovo Chromebook Plus 14-inch:

HP Chromebook Plus 15
If you’re in the market for a similarly capable Chromebook Plus, but don’t want to spend quite as much, the HP Chromebook Plus fits the bill. It matches the Chromebook Plus 14-inch for performance, and while its design and display aren’t quite as spectacular, the HP Chromebook Plus is still at the top of its class.

Read our full HP Chromebook Plus 15.6-inch review

Dell Inspiron 14 Plus 7441
The premium price tag of the Chromebook Plus 14-inch means it competes with some Windows machines, including the Inspiron 14 Plus 7441, which is one of the best value laptops around. It has a similar spec to the Chromebook Plus 14-inch – it likewise utilizes an ARM chip and 16GB of RAM – which means it can handle the same tasks. However, its display is even sharper, and crucially it runs Windows, which is far more versatile than ChromeOS will likely ever be.

Read our full Dell Inspiron 14 Plus 7441 review

How I tested the Lenovo Chromebook Plus 14-inch

Tested for two days
Used for various tasks
Experience with Chromebooks and other laptops

I tested the Chromebook Plus 14-inch for a couple of days, during which time I used it for all manner of tasks, from productivity and browsing to streaming and gaming.

I also ran our series of benchmark tests for Chromebooks, and put its battery life through its paces by running a movie on a continuous loop.

I have plenty of Chromebook experience, having owned and reviewed a number of them. I’ve also owned and reviewed other laptops and even tablets, so I know how they compare to Android, Windows, and macOS devices.

First reviewed September 2025
Read more about how we test

« Previous Page — Next Page »