The Aukey Spark Mini 20000 has simple yet elegant looks, with its soft edges helping to make it more sleek. Aside from grey and silver, there’s also a pink colorway if you want something a little more vibrant.
However, the materials don’t look especially premium, and it’s not as solid as some of the best power banks, with considerable flexing in the front panel, which can even trigger the power button if pressed too hard.
Thankfully, the bottom section is much sturdier, as well as looking more refined thanks to its matte finish and slightly soft texture. This is also the thickest and heaviest part of the unit, but thanks to its overall compactness, the Spark Mini 20000 is quite portable – although carrying it in your pocket might prove a little too onerous.
There’s no real interface, aside from a power button and five small LED dots: four to indicate remaining charge and one to indicate that charging is active. This is quite useful, as it allows you to check whether your device is actually charging with a mere glance.
The Spark Mini 20000 features just two charging ports: one USB-C and one USB-A, the latter of which serves as an output as well as an input for charging the bank itself. This limited selection is a little disappointing, as there are many other 20K power banks with three or four ports to choose from.
At least simultaneous charging is supported, and each port provides enough power for fast charging. The USB-C port supports the PD standard, providing 20W of power for charging the best iPhones and other smartphones quickly, while the USB-A port provides 22.5W of power. A USB-C-to-C cable is included in the box, but it’s quite short, so you’ll need your device close to the bank when charging.
The Spark Mini 20000 managed to charge my Google Pixel 7a from empty to full in about two hours, which isn’t a spectacular performance, but is still within the bounds of what you would expect given its power delivery. However, charging the bank itself from empty to full took over five and a half hours, which is pretty slow going, even for a power bank of this capacity.
About average for a power bank with this size, the Spark Mini 20000 costs $35.99 / £26.37 (about AU$55). However, there are power banks with similar prices that offer more features, such as the INIU Carry P51L-E1 Power Bank 22.5W 20000mAh.
This bank has the same 20,000mAh capacity, but includes an integrated USB-C cable in addition to two ports. It also features a digital display and a flashlight, but still manages to be about the same size as the Spark Mini 20000.
(Image credit: Future)
Aukey Spark Mini 20000 review: price & specs
Price
$35.99 / £26.37 (about AU$55)
Capacity
20,000mAh
Total wattage
22.5W
Number of ports
2
USB-C
1
USB-A
1
Wireless charging
No
Weight
11.4oz / 322g
Power-to-weight
62mAh/g
(Image credit: Future)
Should I buy the Aukey Spark Mini 20000?
Buy it if…
You want something simple The Spark Mini 20000 is a simple case of plug and go, and the LED to indicate charging is active is a simple but useful touch.
You want something compact The Spark Mini 20000 makes for a great travel companion thanks to its small dimensions, even if it’s a little thick.
Don't buy it if…
You have more than two devices to charge With only two ports, the Spark Mini 20000 is limited compared to similarly capacious power banks, which can include three or four ports – and even integrated cables.
You want more features With no digital display or integrated cables and the like, the Spark Mini 20000 is about as simple as it gets – and similarly priced rivals offer more.
Aukey Spark Mini 20000 review: Also consider
INIU Carry P51L-E1 Power Bank 22.5W 20000mAh The P51L-E1 has a similar capacity and power output to the Spark Mini 20000, but has an integrated USB-C cable, which also functions as a carrying loop. It also has a flashlight and a digital display, although the latter is a little sparse in the information it provides, but is clear to see. It’s also about the same price as the Spark Mini 20000, so ultimately it makes for better value. Read our full INIU Carry P51L-E1 Power Bank 22.5W 20000mAh review.
The Groov-e Wave Glow is a very affordable portable speaker and one with sound quality to match that price tag. Yes, this is one that will infuriate the ears of audiophiles sounding somewhat tinny at times and slightly lacking any oomph across the course of my listening.
On the other hand, it has some funky looking lights which I found rather endearing, a comfy to grip strap, and some surprising ways to connect it to your music. Besides Bluetooth, you can also plug in a USB flash drive, slot in a TF card (both admittedly with a tight 64GB limit), and there’s an aux port. It’s not often you see these features in a tiny speaker any more. Granted, not everyone will need these but if you do, well, your options are limited making this more tempting.
Of course, don’t count on it rivalling the best Bluetooth speakers. This is a decidedly cheap speaker. It feels a little cheap to the touch and there’s that dodgy sound quality. I say dodgy; it’s reminiscent of buying a cheap radio or speaker years ago, before good speakers were affordable for the masses. It’s not hideous, exactly, but it’s also fairly ‘blah’.
Away from that disappointing audio quality, the Groov-e Wave Glow has some chunky, tactile buttons for play/pause, volume, and adjusting the lights, and the ports are all hidden behind a pull-out protective shell. Then there’s the lights up top and down bottom, and the elastic strap.
The Groov-e Wave Glow is priced at £23.99 and at the moment is only seemingly available in the UK, but that would make it under $35, or around AU$50. For that price, it’d be silly to expect too much, but if you can stretch further, you will find better options – more on those later. If money is that tight, however, or you’re looking for a cheap gift, the Groov-e Wave Glow still has some appeal.
(Image credit: Future)
Groov-e Wave Glow review: price and release date
Released May 2025
£23.99 at launch
Limited availability
The Groov-e Wave Glow was launched in May 2025 and is currently available to buy in the UK. It’s already seen some modest discounts but is generally available for £23.99.
That makes it one of the cheaper speakers around. The recently released Tribit Stormbox Mini Plus is close but is still usually priced at £39.99. If you’re able to increase your budget to that, there are a few other options like the JBL Go 4, but few as cheap as this one.
Groov-e Wave Glow review: specs
Weight
645g
Dimensions
13.7 x 8 x 7.5 cm
Connectivity
Bluetooth 5.3, aux-in, USB-C (charging)
Battery life
8 hours (quoted)
Speaker drivers
10W
Waterproofing
n/a
Groov-e Wave Glow review: features
AUX port, microSD slot, and USB flash drive support
LED lights
8-hour battery life
The Groov-e Wave Glow is a fairly typical looking little Bluetooth speaker but with some surprising features. The highlight is its plethora of connections. Sure, you’ll be mostly using its Bluetooth connection, but it has other options. You can use its aux port to connect to other devices (and the speaker actually comes with a 3.5mm jack), while next to it is a TF (read: microSD) card slot, and the USB connection allows you to plug in a USB flash drive. Admittedly, both microSD and USB have a limitation of 64GB so you might have to search around for a compatible option, but it could be that specific situation that fits you perfectly.
There are no mics for speakerphone duties (although few speakers seem to offer that, these days) and battery life is a very unremarkable 8 hours. I’d have liked to have seen more here, especially as it takes 2 hours for a full recharge. Its Bluetooth 5.3 connectivity works fine and I had no issues using it with my iPhone 14 Pro but there were occasional dropouts on my PC – usually when I moved the speaker around.
Elsewhere, the LED lights are my favorite thing about the Groov-e Wave Glow. They visually bounce away while playing music and look suitably vibrant and exciting. They’re potentially more exciting than the audio quality, but I’ll get to that. It’s a neat touch either way and makes up for the lack of app support and thus in-app customization.
Features score: 4/5
(Image credit: Future)
Groov-e Wave Glow review: sound quality
10W
Tinny sound
Weak bass
I didn’t expect much of the Groov-e Wave Glow but I have to be honest, it actually sounded a little worse than anticipated. It’s functional, of course, but pretty tinny at times. There’s no bass to speak of, but my word, do the lights try to atone for that. You're encouraged to feel like it’s doing its best, happily bouncing along. However, it’s pretty tame stuff.
Listening to spoken word – a podcast or YouTube video, say – is fine, but when you switch over to your favorite music, the limitations are much more noticeable. The volume can go pretty high, but that weakens the experience even more. I went for my cheesy favorite, Robbie William’s Let Me Entertain You to start, knowing exactly how it’s meant to sound and there was no urgency or strength in the mids.
I went bold then and loaded up some Muse and sighed as it sounded somewhat pitiful. The soundstage is weak but more importantly, the bass and general ambience is underwhelming.
Sound quality score: 2/5
(Image credit: Future)
Groov-e Wave Glow review: design
Comfy elasticated strap
Tactile buttons
Well hidden ports
The Groov-e Wave Glow is certainly exactly how you expect a speaker to look, but there are a few highlights. I’m a big fan of its buttons being attractive but tactile too, so anyone with visual impairments can find what they’re wanting to press. There are buttons for play/pause, volume, and for toggling the lights on or off.
There’s a chunky section for the ports too which blends in well and feels suitably snug. On another side is the strap which is elasticated but held in quite tightly. The idea is that you can easily hold it through the strap but also attach it to something like a hook. It feels nice in your hands which is the main thing here.
As with other similar speakers, the Groov-e Wave Glow is pretty lightweight to carry around. Up top and down the bottom is the lighting so you can place the Groov-e Wave Glow sideways as well as upright.
What lets it down in this section – and why not go higher than four stars? Well, any discussion on the design has to include the audio architecture under the hood, and as you'll know if you've read this far, this area is where the Wave Glow struggles. Also, unusually for a speaker in 2025, there's no mention of an IP rating for water or dust ingress – so it won't be joining the ranks of our best waterproof speakers buying guide any time soon.
Design score: 4/5
(Image credit: Future)
Groov-e Wave Glow review: value
Very cheap
Sturdy design
Useful for a specific situation
The Groov-e Wave Glow is certainly cheap but its sound quality demonstrates exactly why it’s so cheap. Having said that, the aux port, USB flash drive support, and TF card slot could make it exactly what you’ve been looking for. For those people, there’s not much else to rival the Groov-e Wave Glow at this price.
However, if you’re looking for good audio, it’s a smart move to spend a little more on the JBL Go range or something from Anker Soundcore. The Groov-e Wave Glow definitely isn’t the best choice for music lovers, but it is super cheap and for many, that's the priority.
Value score: 3/5
(Image credit: Future)
Should I buy the Groov-e Wave Glow?
Attributes
Notes
Rating
Features
No app, but there are a few notable extras not on other models
4/5
Sound quality
The weakest element by far when considering the Wave Glow: tinny and lacking in low end
2/5
Design
Useful straps, fun lights and tactile buttons
4/5
Value
It's cheap, but given the sound quality, spending less doesn't always mean value
3/5
Buy it if...
You want extra connectivity options Many speakers still retain an aux port but TF and USB flash drive support? That’s what potentially makes the Groov-e Wave Glow your dream option. Only you know what you need most.
You want something for the summer Just need a short term solution? The Groov-e Wave Glow is cheap, easy to get hold of, and does the job. Just about.
You’re on a tight budget If money is very tight and you need a speaker, the Groov-e Wave Glow is an impulse buy kind of price.
Don't buy it if...
You’re an audiophile It’s been a while since I’ve heard something as underwhelming as the Groov-e Wave Glow which is a tragic shame, but true.
You want something to last all day The Groov-e Wave Glow only has 8 hours of battery life which means it won’t last a busy day hiking or out and about. There are other cheap options with better battery life.
You want waterproofing The Groov-e Wave Glow doesn’t confirm its waterproofing and while its ports are neatly hidden away, we wouldn’t trust it immersed in water. Go for something with guaranteed IPX7 waterproofing if you plan on heading to the pool.
Groov-e Wave Glow review: also consider
Groov-e Wave Glow
Tribit Stormbox Mini Plus
JBL Clip 5
Price
£23.99; limited availability in other markets
$39.99 / £32 / AU$65 (approx.)
$79.95 / £59.99 / AU$89.95
Weight
645g
545g
285g
Dimensions
13.7 x 8 x 7.5 cm
90.9 x 90.9 x 118.9 mm
86 x 134.5 x 46 mm
Connectivity
Bluetooth 5.3, aux-in, USB-C (charging)
Bluetooth 5.4 (SBC, AAC codecs), AUX-in, USB-C (charging)
Bluetooth 5.3, USB-C (charging)
Battery life
8 hours (quoted)
12 hours (quoted)
Up to 12 hours
Speaker drivers
10W (dimensions not stated)
48mm
Integrated class D digital amplifiers x 1
Waterproofing
n/a
IPX7
IP67
JBL Clip 5 If you can stretch that budget, buy the JBL Clip 5. It’s perfect for outdoor use while also sounding great for the price. There’s plenty of detail and bass here with an adjustable EQ and an ideal strap for carrying. Read our full JBL Clip 5 reviewView Deal
Tribit Stormbox Mini Plus A little more expensive but guaranteeing good waterproofing, the Tribit Stormbox Mini Plus could still sound better but it’s otherwise a robust option at a very affordable price. Read our full Tribit Stormbox Mini Plus review
Groov-e Wave Glow review: how I tested
Tested over 14 days
Used with Spotify, Apple Music, YouTube, and Twitch
15 years of audio equipment reviewing experience
I used the Groov-e Wave Glow across 14 days in a wide range of ways. I connected it to my PC initially and listened to Spotify, Apple Music and Twitch using that as a source device, then moved to my iPhone 14 Pro.
That meant a solid mixture of spoken audio and also music. My music taste is fairly varied so it went from Robbie Williams to Muse to Chet Baker to various pieces of classical music. I also checked how good battery life appeared to be and monitored how long it took to recharge.
I have 15 years of experience testing audio equipment, specialising in portable, affordable products just like the Groov-e Wave Glow.
If you’re searching for a network monitoring tool that can keep up with hybrid and cloud-first IT environments, Datadog is likely on your shortlist. We’ve spent weeks researching every major IT platform and Datadog is near the top for its feature-rich approach and impressive integrations. For a broader look at your options, check out our best network monitoring tools list.
Our team at TechRadar has deep experience evaluating IT platforms — using, comparing, and stress-testing them in real-world scenarios. LogicMonitor is our pick for the best network monitoring tool of 2025. Its AI-powered suite automates many day-to-day IT workflows, making it a top choice for organizations wanting proactive, hands-off monitoring.
Still, Datadog’s popularity is no accident. It’s a favorite among IT teams for its real-time visibility, rich analytics, and ability to unify monitoring across multi-cloud, hybrid, and on-premises environments. But is it the right fit for your team? Let’s dive in.
Datadog network monitoring: Features
Datadog is one of the most feature-rich platforms in the network monitoring space. It’s packed with tools for real-time analytics, customizable dashboards, anomaly detection, and integrations with over 850 services and devices.
These features are best suited for IT teams managing complex, hybrid, or cloud-native environments who need granular visibility and automation. Everything comes together pretty well, though some users have asked for easier self-remediation and more transparent pricing, especially as data volumes grow.
At its price point, though, you’re paying for depth and breadth. So, if you need only basic monitoring, there are cheaper options.
Infrastructure monitoring
Datadog’s core component gives you a bird’s eye view of servers, cloud instances, containers, and network devices. It auto-discovers resources and collects data from CPUs, memory, disk, and network performance, all visualized in real time.
Network performance monitoring (NPM)
NPM provides deep visibility into your network traffic, showing you which services are talking to each other, where bottlenecks are, and how traffic flows across your environment. You can drill down to individual connections, monitor bandwidth usage, and set up alerts for unusual activity.
Log management
Datadog automatically ingests, parses, and analyzes logs from across your stack. You can search logs in real time, correlate them with metrics and traces, and set up alerts for error spikes or suspicious activity.
Application performance monitoring (APM)
APM traces requests across distributed systems, helping you spot slowdowns, errors, and performance bottlenecks at the code or service level. It supports major programming languages and frameworks.
Synthetic monitoring
This tool simulates user interactions with your apps and connectors, running tests from locations around the world to measure uptime and performance. It’s useful for catching issues before users notice them.
Real user monitoring (RUM)
RUM tracks the actual experience of your users, measuring load times, errors, and engagement in real time. This is important for teams focused on optimizing user-facing applications.
Security monitoring
Datadog’s security suite includes anomaly detection, threat intelligence, and compliance monitoring, helping you spot vulnerabilities and suspicious behavior as it happens.
Integrations and APIs
With support for 850+ integrations, including AWS, Azure, Kubernetes, Chef, Puppet, and more — Datadog can slot into almost any IT environment, making it easy to unify monitoring across tools and platforms.
(Image credit: Datadog)
Datadog network monitoring: Ease of use
Datadog is generally user-friendly, with a modern, intuitive interface and customizable dashboards that make it easy to visualize the metrics that matter most to you. Many users find setup and configuration straightforward, especially compared to older tools like SolarWinds. You can drag and drop widgets, create custom views, and filter data with just a few clicks.
However, the initial setup can feel overwhelming for newcomers. With so many features and integrations, it’s not always clear where to start, and some users report that onboarding documentation could be more beginner-friendly. Once you’re past the learning curve, though, day-to-day use is smooth and efficient.
Datadog also supports accessibility features and offers a REST API for advanced customization and integration with other tools. While the platform is designed to scale with your needs, we’d love to see more guided onboarding for first-time users.
Datadog network monitoring: Pricing
Plan
Starting price (paid annually)
What’s included
Infrastructure Monitoring
$15 per host/month
Core metrics, dashboards, 850+ integrations
APM
$31 per host/month
Distributed tracing, service maps, code profiling
Log Management
$0.10 per GB ingested
Log ingestion, search, analytics
Network Performance
$5 per host/month
Network traffic analysis, flow monitoring, device health
Synthetic Monitoring
$5 per 10,000 API tests
API and browser tests, uptime checks
Real User Monitoring
$2 per 10,000 sessions
End-user experience metrics, session replay
Security Monitoring
$0.20 per GB analyzed
Threat detection, compliance monitoring
Database Monitoring
$21 per host/month
Database performance, query analytics
Continuous Profiler
$8 per host/month
Code profiling, performance optimization
Incident Management
$15 per user/month
Incident tracking, collaboration tools
CI Visibility
$5 per 25,000 test runs
CI/CD pipeline monitoring, job analytics
Datadog’s pricing is modular and can add up quickly as you layer on more features or monitor more hosts. While the entry price for network monitoring is competitive, costs for log ingestion, APM, and other advanced features can become significant for large environments.
The flexibility to pick and choose modules is great, but budgeting can be tricky. Compared to competitors like LogicMonitor, Datadog is often pricier at scale, though it offers more control over what you pay for.
Datadog network monitoring: Customer support
Datadog’s customer support is generally responsive and knowledgeable, with 24/7 availability for most plans. Users can access support via email, chat, or ticketing, and there’s a robust knowledge base and active community forums. Enterprise customers get priority support, including a dedicated account manager and faster response times.
But, some users have reported mixed experiences, especially with lower-tier plans or complex billing issues. A few customers mention delays in getting detailed technical answers or feeling like their concerns weren’t fully addressed. For mission-critical environments, we recommend opting for enterprise support to ensure the fastest resolution times.
Datadog network monitoring: Alternatives
Datadog is a leader in network monitoring, but it’s not the only option. It’s best suited for mid-sized to large IT teams managing hybrid or cloud-first environments who need deep analytics and extensive integrations. If you’re a smaller business or just need basic monitoring, you might find Datadog’s cost and complexity overkill.
Top competitors include LogicMonitor for its AI-powered automation and intuitive interface, Dynatrace for AI-driven anomaly detection, and Nagios or Zabbix for IT teams who want open-source options. That said, Datadog’s main edge is its unified, cloud-native approach and real-time analytics. But if you value simplicity or lower costs, it’s worth comparing alternatives.
Datadog network monitoring: Final verdict
Datadog brings a powerful, unified approach to network monitoring, with real-time analytics, deep integrations, and customizable dashboards. It’s a top choice for IT teams that need to monitor complex, hybrid, or cloud-native environments and want to correlate network data with logs, traces, and application metrics.
However, cost and complexity can be drawbacks, especially for smaller teams or those new to monitoring platforms. If you need the most advanced features and can invest in setup and training, Datadog is a strong contender. For simpler needs or tighter budgets, other platforms may offer better value.
FAQs
What types of environments can Datadog monitor?
Datadog supports on-premises, cloud, and hybrid environments, with integrations for AWS, Azure, Google Cloud, and more. It’s designed to provide unified visibility across all your infrastructure.
Is Datadog suitable for small businesses?
While Datadog can be used by businesses of any size, its pricing and feature set are best suited for mid-sized to large organizations with complex monitoring needs. Smaller teams may find the cost and learning curve steep.
Can Datadog alert me to network issues in real time?
Yes, Datadog provides real-time alerts for network performance issues, outages, and anomalies. You can customize alert thresholds and receive notifications via email, Slack, PagerDuty, and other channels.
Does Datadog offer a free trial?
Datadog typically offers a 14-day free trial for new users, allowing you to test core features and integrations before committing to a paid plan.
How does Datadog compare to LogicMonitor?
LogicMonitor is our top pick for 2025, thanks to its AI-powered automation and revamped UI. Datadog offers more granular analytics and integrations but can be more expensive and complex to set up. Both are excellent, but LogicMonitor is better for teams wanting automation while Datadog excels in analytics and customization.
The Ugreen Nexode Power Bank has 165W of power and a 20000mAh, as well as a few features aimed at improving convenience.
In line with the range in which this power bank sits, the Nexode has a dark grey finish with black accents, making it slightly more interesting to look at than other power banks. The smooth matte finish also adds a hint of elegance, giving the impression that this is a premium product.
However, this belies the actual build quality of the Nexode. Despite its heaviness, some of the panels can flex slightly; they aren’t as solid as those you’ll find on many Anker power banks, for instance, which are some of the best power banks around in terms of construction.
Still, the Nexode should suffice for travel purposes. What’s more of an issue when traveling is just how bulky it is. It might have a relatively short length but it’s quite thick, and personally I would’ve preferred the compromise to be the other way around, as a thinner bank is easier to tuck away into a bag.
However, I did appreciate the rubber feet on the back panel. I haven’t noticed their absence on other power banks before, but seeing them here has made me realize how useful they are for protecting the bank and supporting surfaces from scratches. They also prevent the bank from sliding around.
The Nexode also has a large display, although unfortunately the readout is considerably smaller than the space appears to allow for. It’s also quite dim, which, combined with the reflective screen, can make it even hard to see.
The information it does provide, though, is quite useful. As well as the battery life percentage, there’s also estimated charging times for connected devices or the bank itself, as well as an indicator showing which connections are currently active and their wattage. Pressing the power button takes you to a second screen, where you can view the voltage and amperage of each connection, too.
Perhaps the standout feature of the Nexode, though, is the retractable USB-C cable. This is easy to use, although it does have a tendency to twist around, which can make it awkward to put back in. It’s also quite thin and doesn’t feel particularly hardy, but Ugreen does claim it can endure over 25,000 retractions and over 10,000 bends.
In addition to this cable, you also get two USB ports: one Type-A and one Type-C. Like the retractable cable, the latter port is both an input and an output, while the former is output only. Both USB-C interfaces are capable of receiving and delivering 100W each, although if both are used at the same time, the port will drop to 65W. The USB-A port delivers 33W maximum.
The Nexode also supports three-way charging, but in such cases the two USB ports drop to 10W, while the retractable cable retains its 100W capability. There’s also a trickle charging mode for charging smaller devices with more sensitive batteries, such as wireless earbuds and smartwatches, activated by holding the power button for five seconds.
Using the retractable USB-C cable, I managed to charge my Lenovo ThinkPad T14s Gen 4, which has a 57Wh battery, from 5% to 90% in under 90 minutes, before the Nexode depleted completely. This is quite fast, but it’s a shame it ran out before making it to 100%, and means you can’t even get one full charge out of it. Charging the bank itself from empty to full took about one hour and 40 minutes, which again is a respectable time.
The Nexode is expensive for a power bank, even one with this much power, retailing for $99.99 / £79.99 (about AU$150). The Anker Laptop Power Bank is about the same price, but has a greater capacity and two integrated cables. It’s also slightly thinner and better made than the Nexode.
We have seen it around for less than its original price, though, and if you can catch it in a sale, the Nexode might still prove a solid pick for charging your large devices.
(Image credit: Future)
Ugreen Nexode Power Bank 20000mAh 165W review: price & specs
Price
$99.99 / £79.99 (about AU$150)
Capacity
20,000mAh
Total wattage
165W
Number of ports
3
USB-C
2 (1 x built-in)
Wireless charging
No
Weight
18.9oz / 535g
Power-to-weight
37.4mAh/g
(Image credit: Future)
Should I buy the Ugreen Nexode Power Bank 20000mAh 165W?
Buy it if…
You want plenty of power Most modern laptops don’t need 165W to charge quickly, and the fast two- and three-way charging times are also welcome.
You want useful charging information Aside from the usual battery percentage, the display on the Nexode also provides wattage, voltage, and amperage figures for each active connection.
Don't buy it if…
You want something thin Personally, I prefer a power bank to be as thin as possible, as this makes it easier to pack away. Unfortunately, though, the Nexode is quite thick.
You want full laptop charges The 20,000mAh capacity doesn’t cut it for multiple charges of large devices – sometimes not even one full charge, in my experience.
Ugreen Nexode Power Bank 20000mAh 165W review: Also consider
Anker Laptop Power Bank If you’re after another high-power, high-capacity power bank, the Anker Laptop Power Bank is a stellar alternative. Not only does it feature a retractable USB-C cable like the Nexode, but it also features another integrated USB-C cable that acts as a carrying loop when not in use. It also has a better display and build quality, as well as being thinner, which I find makes it easier to transport. Read our full Anker Laptop Power Bank review.
Blackview is a thriving technology brand that initially specialised in rugged outdoor phones designed to support rugged lifestyles and survive demanding and challenging environments. Over the years, Blackview has expanded its product range to include mainstream smartphones, smartwatches, earphones, tablets, and laptops.
The Blackview BV7300 is a rugged smartphone designed for outdoor enthusiasts and professionals who need a durable and reliable device. It features a reinforced frame and textured back for a secure grip, making it both tough and stylish. The BV7300 is equipped with dual camping lights and a 20MP night vision camera, ensuring safety and visibility in low-light conditions. Its super-large 15000mAh battery supports 45W fast charging, providing long-lasting power for extended use.
The device runs on Android 14 with DokeOS 4.0, offering a smooth and personalised user experience. With up to 18GB RAM and 256GB ROM, the BV7300 delivers powerful performance for various tasks. Additionally, it boasts IP68 and IP69K ratings for water and dust resistance, as well as MIL-STD-810H certification for durability in extreme environments.
The BV7300's weaknesses include an odd low-resolution screen and a limitation to 4G comms, not 5G. And at 528g, this is a bulky phone to use for everyday use.
It is unlikely to be our top choice for rugged smartphones, but it offers excellent value for those who occasionally venture into challenging environments.
(Image credit: Mark Pickavance)
Blackview BV7300: price and availability
How much does it cost? $280/£166
When is it out? Available globally
Where can you get it? Direct from the maker or via an online retailer
Available directly from the maker's own shop, the asking price is £166 in the UK and $279.99 for US customers, making it a substantially better deal in those countries that don’t apply tariffs to Chinese goods.
If bought via Amazon.com and with a coupon applied, it can be had for only $219.99, but the standard price is $249.99. UK customers can get it via Amazon for £170.
For those willing to wait for AliExpress to deliver, it can be found for less than £150 or $195.
Typically, I’d mention another phone that uses the same platform as the BV7300, but alas, it's almost unique to this device. The only other Android device using the G81 SoC is the Oukitel RT3 Pro tablet.
Based on the specification, this is a decent phone for what is the bargain basement end of recent rugged phones
IP68/IP69K water and dust resistance, MIL-STD-810H compliant
Build Materials
Polycarbonate, TPU, Aluminium alloy
Dimensions
186.2 × 85 × 24 mm
Weight
528g
Blackview BV7300: design
Built to last
Large camping light
No headphone jack
Blackview devices often feature sharp lines, reinforced corners, and textured surfaces that evoke a tool-like toughness. They look like they belong in a toolbox as much as a backpack. And, the BV7300 is no exception.
It has metal sides and buttons that, together with the rubberised bumpers, reinforce the rugged identity. These style aspects aren’t just decorative; they are a signal of durability, and this phone was made to operate in harsh environments.
The button layout is by-the-numbers, with the volume rockers and fingerprint-reading power button on the right, and the user-definable function button on the left.
In addition, the left side is also where the SIM tray resides, and it's one where you can use two Nano SIMs or one and a MicroSD card for additional storage.
The rear mounts the two cameras near the top and relatively central, making them easy to aim, but the majority of the back is taken up with a substantial camping LED.
(Image credit: Mark Pickavance)
To diverge for a moment, many phones these days come with a substantial metal label stuck to them. This details the model, spec, IMEI number, serial number and various standards that the maker wishes to acknowledge. Do you leave these on, or do you peel them off?
Until now, I’ve always left them on, as the information might be necessary at some point and locating it could be crucial.
Why am I mentioning this? On the BV7300, the label is slapped over half of the camping LED, and therefore, it needs to be removed if you want to use that feature. I chose to leave it in place for my photographs, but if I were to use this device in anger, it would need to be removed.
The use of the back with the dual-element LED lamp also negates the possibility of wireless charging, but with a battery this big, that probably wasn’t a possibility.
What this design lacks is a headphone jack, although you could use an adapter with the USB-C port if you own one.
As is often the case with Blackview hardware, the BV7300 sells its robust credentials confidently and doesn’t stray away from the feature set that most of its customers expect.
(Image credit: Mark Pickavance)
Design score: 4/5
Blackview BV7300: hardware
MediaTek Dimensity 7300
Odd resolution display
15000 mAh battery
The MediaTek Helio G81 is a mid-range SoC introduced in August 2024, designed primarily for budget-friendly Android smartphones with a focus on gaming and multimedia performance.
It has an older brother, the G80, that has basic AI features, and this chip added Enhanced AI (MediaTek NeuroPilot, Android NNAPI support), allegedly. It also sports EIS (electronic image stabilisation), along with support for a 120Hz display. The makers, Mediatek, have also added the Helio G85, which is remarkably similar to the G81 used in this phone.
All the G8X series use dual A75 performance cores combined with six A55 efficiency cores to deliver both power and long battery life. They also all use the Mali-G52 MP2 GPU, which isn’t especially powerful, but is good enough for smooth video playback.
It’s a solid choice for rugged phones and budget gaming handsets, offering a good balance of efficiency and features without pushing into premium territory.
One potential improvement could be that this chip uses a 12nm FinFET (TSMC), whereas the latest Dimensity chips use 6nm and even 4nm. That limits how far its efficiency can go, and it also has a capped bandwidth by using LPDDR4x 1800Mhz memory.
But this chip does support a screen with a 2520 x 1080 resolution and a 120Hz refresh rate, but unfortunately, that wasn’t what Blackview gave the BV7300.
The 6.67-inch IPS LCD has the curious resolution of 720 x 1604 pixels, a 90Hz refresh rate and a 700 nits brightness. That means it can’t display 1080p video at its full quality, and that includes the video captured by the primary camera.
If neither the screen nor the SoC are the star of this show, what is? Possibly the battery, which has a capacity of 15000mAh, is mostly responsible for this phone weighing more than 500g.
If you aren’t put off by such a bulky device, that’s plenty of battery capacity, and it can be shared with other devices using reverse charging.
When we get to the benchmarking, it will become evident that those comments are foreshadowing, in many respects.
(Image credit: Mark Pickavance)
Hardware score: 4/5
Blackview BV7300: cameras
50MP and 20MP sensors on the rear
32MP on the front
Three cameras in total
(Image credit: Mark Pickavance)
The Blackview BV7300 has three cameras:
Rear camera: 50MP Samsung JN1 primary, 20MP Sony IMX376 Night Vision Front camera: 32MP Galaxycore GC32E1-WA1XA
I wasn’t expecting much considering the cost of this camera and its inevitably tight production budget. But the 50MP Samsung JN1 primary is a workmanlike sensor that, in good lighting conditions, can deliver some decent quality images.
I’d recommend that, unlike me, you disable the AI and HDR functionality, as it tends to oversaturate the colours to the point of making some captures pop-art.
The JN1 is a decent, if now slightly old, Samsung sensor that uses pixel-binning to create generally good 13MP captures from its 50MP source data.
Its limitation is that it isn’t great in low-light conditions, resulting in blurry and grainy results. Blackview's answer to that was to make the second sensor the 20MP Sony IMX376, which is a specialist Night Vision camera.
What’s mildly confusing is that within the Android camera app, there are ‘Night’ and ‘Night Vision’ modes, with the first being an AI-enhanced EIS mode that uses the Samsung JN1 but longer exposure times.
Electronic Image Stabilisation (EIS) is a technology used in the context of the MediaTek Helio G81 System on Chip (SoC) to reduce blurriness and shakiness in videos and images. EIS works by using software algorithms to compensate for small movements and vibrations during video recording or photography. This is particularly useful for handheld shooting, where even slight hand movements can cause noticeable shake in the footage.
While EIS helps, it's not the same as optical stabilisation, and the results are a bit mixed. If you truly want to take images in low light, the MX376 is a much better choice as it uses IR flash to bathe even the darkest locations in light that the sensor can see and generate an image from. It’s only B&W, and the images are in 20.2MP resolution.
Using this mode, you should be able to capture nocturnal creatures if you turn the screen brightness down and stay quiet enough that your presence isn’t an issue.
As a camera system, the BV7300 is better than I expected, but it's also worth noting that it is a budget device. So you get a Pro mode, panoramas, time-lapse, document shooting and even AR stickers. But equally, the best video resolution is ‘high’, which translates into 1080p when you’ve recorded something.
When you consider that the Samsung ISOCELL JN1 is capable of 4K at 30fps, that’s an intentional omission.
It's normal at this point in my phone reviews to moan that the makers only support Widevine L3 video encryption, reducing the quality of streaming to only 480P from most of the big streaming brands.
However, since the best resolution this display can support is only 720p, it’s probably not an issue in the greater scheme of things.
(Image credit: Mark Pickavance)
Blackview BV7300 Camera samples
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Camera score: 3.5/5
Blackview BV7300: performance
Not 3D game-friendly GPU
Decent battery performance
Phone
Blackview BV7300
Doogee Fire 6 Power
SoC
Mediaktek Helio G81
Unisoc T606
GPU
Mali-G52 MP2
Mali G57 MP1
Mem
N/A
N/A
NPU
6GB/256GB
8GB/256GB
Weight
528g
430g
Battery
15000
15500
Geekbench
Single
446
391
Multi
1469
1368
OpenCL
218
460
Vulkan
361
461
GFX
Aztec Open Normal
5.5
5.5
Aztec Vulkan Norm.
4.8
4.8
Car Chase
3.2
5.4
Manhattan 3.1
4.9
8.8
PCMark
3.0 Score
7391
7790
Battery
30h 40m
31h 18m
Charge 30
%
16
13
Passmark
Score
6767
6289
CPU
3268
2947
3DMark
Slingshot OGL
789
1479
Slingshot Ex. OGL
490
985
Slingshot Ex. Vulkan
504
976
Wildlife
226
432
Nomad Lite
N/A
49
It wasn’t easy to find a phone I’d reviewed recently that was comparable to the BV7300, because most that use the Helio G99 or one of the Dimensity series MediaTek SoCs are significantly more powerful than the G81 used here.
Eventually, I chose the Doogee Fire 6 Power, and its underwhelming Unisoc T606 SoC to be something to compare.
Performance-wise, these phones are closely matched, both in CPU and GPU speeds, and neither is a phone you would pick to play 3D games on.
What ultimately divides them is that the BV7300 only comes with 6GB of RAM, and the Nomad Lite test refuses to run with less than 8GB. And, I did try RAM expansion mode, and that 3D Mark test wants real memory, not mapped storage.
Where both phones excel is in respect of battery capacity and running time, with the Fire 6 being a little better because it has 500mAh more battery at its disposal. I worked out the running time per mAh, and the Blackview has a tiny advantage, although it’s also nearly 100g heavier for that win.
Overall, this isn’t a phone that anyone wanting high performance would gravitate towards, but if you want a rugged phone that can take reasonable pictures and last at least four working days without a recharge, then the Blackview BV7300 might be for you.
Performance score: 4/5
(Image credit: Mark Pickavance)
Blackview BV7300: Final verdict
Looking for an affordable phone that can withstand some abuse, whether on holiday, a building site, or in the jungle? Then the Blackview BV7300 might fit the bill.
There isn’t much about this phone that stands out, other than perhaps the battery life and the price, but for some, having a phone that can get wet and be dropped and still work is the critical requirement.
The BV7300 ticks that box, even if it makes it less than lightweight, and in a company scenario, you are unlikely to take flak for going over-budget.
Should I buy a Blackview BV7300?
Blackview BV7300 Score Card
Attributes
Notes
Rating
Value
Cheap and chunky
4/5
Design
Heavy, but designed to take abuse
4/5
Hardware
MediaTek Helio G81, odd screen, big battery
4/5
Camera
Two rear sensors but only 1080p video
3.5/5
Performance
Budget phone performance but good battery life
3.5/5
Overall
A practical device if you don't mind the weight
4/5
Buy it if...
You need an outdoor phone The BV7300 is built to handle drops, even into water, as long as it doesn't go too deep or stay submersed too long. Clumsy people need phones like this.
Battery life is critical Being able to run continuously for more than thirty hours suggests that it should take most people through four working days without a recharge. Or, longer if you aren’t always on it.
Don't buy it if...
You travel light At over 500g, this isn’t a lightweight device; ideally, it must be mounted to your belt or a vehicle. If your role involves extended walking, you might regret buying this phone.
You need more memory or performance This is probably the least powerful phone I’ve seen since the Doogee Fire 6 Power, and that one wasn’t impressive. If you use demanding tasks, of 5G, then perhaps this isn’t for you.
Also Consider
Ulefone Armor Mini 20 Pro Another practical, rugged design with an inbuilt camping light, night vision camera and about half the battery capacity of the Blackview BV7300. But it's also much easier to carry, and they make a 20T Pro model with thermal imaging.
Doogee Fire 6 Power A low-power rugged phone with a similar spec to the BV7300, but with 8GB of RAM, and it's 98g lighter. In many other respects, it’s very similar to the Blackview.
Being less heavy, but with a battery almost the same size, hints that it might not be as robust as the BV7300. Although I don't have evidence to support that assertion.
Checking through the specifications of the Chuwi GameBook 9955HX and the CPU and GPU both hint at a high-performance laptop, just without the usual astronomical high price. Checking over the machine highlights the balance Chuwi has struck with the design and quality of the materials. While they might not match the likes of the Asus ProArt P16 and other high-end creative and gaming laptops, it still offers a good overall build quality.
Unlike other gaming laptops, Chuwi has really kept the design aesthetics reserved, so like many of the best business laptops, this machine will look equally at home, in the office, or design studio as it would in a gaming environment. With a sleek, plain top, a good array of ports around the sides and back, and the only hint that this is something different from your standard office laptop being the honeycomb design on the base.
Several key features instantly appeal when you open up the GameBook 9955HX. First and foremost is the large screen and full-size keyboard with a number pad on the right, making it ideal for anyone scouting for the best laptops for photo editing or the best laptops for video editing.
Getting into the use, Windows 11 Pro runs smoothly from the outset, with the CPU and GPU combo alongside the 32GB of RAM and 1TB SSD providing all the speed you need for all standard applications, which is proven through the PCMark scores.
Content creation, again using Premiere Pro, Adobe Lightroom, and Photoshop, showed the machine had absolutely no issues with editing 4K and even some 8K video, although expansion storage was needed. With two USB Type-C ports, you get a relatively fast connection to the machine. This is the first highlight where cost has been cut, with USB 3.2 Gen 2 used over the faster USB Type-C interfaces, meaning you only get 10GB/s, considerably lower than the later USB4 that you'd expect to see on a machine with these specifications.
However, the reduction in USB interface generation is one of the only areas where the specifications have been pared back. Internally, there is space for additional RAM and increased storage, including the PCIe 5 M.2 slot and fast connection through Wi-Fi 6E and Bluetooth 5.2 wireless connectivity options, both of which are tried and tested rather than being the latest generation.
Overall, the test showed the machine put in a great performance, with an easy access turbo power option, when you're connected to AC power, to accelerate the CPU and GPU further, giving a boost when playing games, especially. There is little not to like about the raw performance of this GameBook.
When you consider the price and what's on offer, it's hard not to be impressed with what Chuwi has managed to offer at this price.
Chuwi GameBook 9955HX: Price & availability
How much does it cost? £1804
When is it out? Now
Where can you get it? Widely available
The Chuwi GameBook is available directly through the Chuwi website for £1,804, which, considering the specification including 32GB of RAM and a 1TB hard drive, is exceptional value for money.
Value: 5 / 5
(Image credit: Alastair Jennings)
Chuwi GameBook 9955HX: Design
(Image credit: Alastair Jennings)
Specifications
CPU: AMD Ryzen 9 9955HX (16 cores, 32 threads, up to 5.4GHz) Graphics: NVIDIA GeForce RTX 5070 Ti Laptop GPU (12GB GDDR6) RAM: 32GB DDR5 5600MHz (2 x 16GB, dual channel, upgradable to 64GB) Storage: 1TB PCIe Gen4 NVMe SSD (supports two M.2 2280 slots, one Gen4, one Gen5, upgradable) Left Ports: 2.5G RJ45 LAN, USB 3.2 Gen1 Type-A, USB 3.2 Gen 2 Type-C (supports 100W PD charging), 3.5mm audio jack Right Ports: USB 3.2 Gen1 Type-A, Kensington lock slot Rear Ports: HDMI 2.1 Port (Support 4K@120Hz), USB 3.2 Gen 2, Mini DP (DP2.1a, UHBR20 80Gbps) Connectivity: Wi-Fi 6E, Bluetooth 5.2 Audio: 2W stereo speakers, Dual microphone array Camera: 1080p IR webcam (supports Windows Hello, with physical privacy cover) Size: 356.7 x 253.8 x 21.4 mm Weight: 2.3kg OS Installed: Windows 11 Pro Accessories: 140W USB-C power adapter
Removing the Chuwi GameBook 9955HX from the box, the first thing that strikes you, especially at this price point, is just how good and robust the laptop feels, with the monitor protected in an aluminium casing, while the main body is made from a similar colour, high-impact plastic. While it doesn't give quite the same premium feel as some other laptops, it is nevertheless of decent quality.
When it comes to size and weight, because this is a gaming-focused PC requiring lots of cooling for the powerful CPU and GPU, the size and weight are slightly heavier than many work-focused laptops. It measures 356.7 x 253.8 x 21.4 mm and weighs in at 2.3kg.
Despite all that processing power and features, it's still a relatively decent-sized machine and more than portable, as I found during the process of this test.
Looking over the body of the laptop, there's a good rubber bar on the base along with two small feet to keep it securely in place on the desktop, and there's a good amount of venting on the bottom and across the back of the machine, ensuring that the powerful CPU/GPU combo stays cool.
On the left-hand side, you have a LAN port with an ingenious flip-down door design that helps partially protect the port and integrates with the design of the case. This network port is joined by a USB 3.2 Gen 2 port that enables 100W of PD power for charging when the laptop is off, and a USB Type-A Gen 1 port, alongside a standard 3.5mm audio jack.
Alongside venting at the back, there's also a USB Type-C port at up to 140W PD power again when the power is off, a mini DP 2.1 and an HDMI 2.1 port enabling 4K at 120Hz, and finally, on the right-hand side, there are two USB 3.2 Gen 1 Type-A ports and a lock slot for securing the laptop if needed.
Opening up the lid reveals the 16-inch, 2.5K (2560 x 1600), IPS, 300Hz refresh rate and up to 500 nits brightness 16:10 screen that offers a clear display for office work, content creation, as well as gaming.
One of the big features for anyone looking at this laptop for work, as well as content creation and gaming, is the full-size keyboard, even down to the four cursor keys, all full-sized with a handy numeric pad, which is slightly reduced in size, giving plenty of control and input options. While the keyboard is of decent quality, it doesn't quite have the same precise actuation that you would find with some of the more premium models.
Still, that's not to say it doesn't feel good to type on, and it is responsive. Likewise, the trackpad is a decent size and supports gesture control, again, of a decent quality, but doesn't quite have the high-end premium feel you might expect with some of the more premium laptops.
One final design feature to point out is across the top bar of the laptop, alongside gaming detailing. There is the power button, and next to this is the turbo button, which gives the laptop a power boost for gaming and other applications that need a little bit more grunt from the CPU and GPU, with an Office, Balanced and Turbo mode.
Design: 4 / 5
Chuwi GameBook 9955HX: Features
(Image credit: Alastair Jennings)
Featuring an AMD Ryzen 9 9955HX CPU with 16 cores, 32 threads, 64MB cache and up to 5.4GHz clock speed within Zen 5 architecture, this mobile CPU is an ideal fit if you're looking for a laptop that can handle high-demand applications and games. It's supported by an impressive GPU in the form of the Nvidia GeForce RTX 5070 Ti laptop GPU, which features 12GB of GDDR7 VRAM, 140W TGP, 1406 AI TOPS, and supports full ray tracing.
Complementing the CPU and GPU is the dual-channel SODIMM RAM, and the standard machine comes equipped with 2×16GB DDR5 5600MHz modules, but you can expand this up to two 32GB sticks if required. Access to the inner workings is through the base with 11 screws needing to be removed before the base of the machine can be lifted away. From there, the layout is extremely neat and easy to work with.
For storage, the machine features two slots and comes pre-installed with a 1TB PCIe 4.0 SSD, placed in the PCIe 5.0 slot. You can also add a second M.2 2280 PCIe SSD card into the secondary slot, which is a PCIe 4.0 slot. Ideally, you buy yourself a PCIe 5.0 M.2 2280 module and insert that into the PCIe 5.0 slot to make the most of that additional speed, and place the operating system onto the PCIe 4.0 slot.
Powering the machine is a 77.77Wh battery that offers 15.4V and 5,050mAh capacity. While this is impressive considering the power draw, used for high-end gaming or content creation, battery life is going to be rather limited.
However, there has to be a balance between the size of the machine and the battery used, with a 140W AC power supply for high-demand applications. It's probably worth swapping over to AC power rather than using the battery. It's also worth noting that while there are two USB-C ports that enable PD power, this is only for use when the machine is off.
Connectivity options are as described previously, with a good range of ports, although the USB Type-C port is an older generation USB3.2 Gen 2 rather than USB4.
As you'd expect, there is a webcam built in, supporting Windows Hello face recognition. One feature I like here is that there's a physical privacy cover. It can be slid across the camera, and once it is down, the camera shows a red cover to highlight the status.
For gaming and content creation, there are two relatively powerful two-watt speakers and a dual mic on the camera. These are all of decent quality, although nowhere near the depth or clarity of sound you would expect from a premium model.
All in all, considering the price point, the features are well balanced, giving you all the power you need for high-demand applications and games, while balancing out some features, such as the USB interfaces, to manage overall cost.
Features: 4.5 / 5
Chuwi GameBook 9955HX: Performance
(Image credit: Alastair Jennings)
Benchmarks
CrystalDiskMark Read: 5538.97 CrystalDiskMark Write: 5208.69 Geekbench CPU Multi: 18134 Geekbench CPU Single: 3220 Geekbench GPU: 150671 PCMark Overall: 8367 Cinebench CPU Multi: 32863 Cinebench CPU Single: 2175 Fire Strike Overall: 35793 Fire Strike Graphics: 40250 Fire Strike Physics: 37287 Fire Strike Combined: 18934 Time Spy Overall: 15855 Time Spy Graphics: 16763 Time Spy CPU: 12135 Wild Life Overall: 40003 Steel Nomad Overall: 3743 Windows Experience Overall: 8.1
The Chuwi GameBook 9955HX impresses first and foremost with the speed at which Windows boots up from cold, enabling you to load up apps and get started in a couple of minutes if not less. All Microsoft Office applications run smoothly, and if you prefer Google Docs, the wireless internet connection using Wi-Fi 6 is good and robust, with the option to hardwire into the network if you prefer. From a work perspective, this machine provides a solid foundation for standard administration software.
Through tests for Microsoft Word, PowerPoint and Excel, all applications loaded quickly, and with a large 16-inch screen in decent resolution, it's easy to navigate and update multiple documents and presentations with ease.
One of the things that stands out is the full-size keyboard. When you are used to using a MacBook Pro or similar high-end premium laptop with a reduced keyboard, the fact that it has the number pad, full-size cursors, and access to the F keys at the top just makes workflow much easier without having to use key combinations.
Moving on from the base applications and starting to look at content creation options, I loaded up Adobe Premiere Pro, Photoshop and Lightroom to see how the machine would handle an 8K video shot on a Canon EOS R5C and Sony A7 IV. The performance was superb. However, the one-terabyte SSD quickly filled up, and I was pleased to see that I could quickly pop in a secondary SSD, boosting internal storage up to 3TB.
For ease, this was installed in the secondary PCIe slot, enabling transfer rates of up to 5,000MB/s when benchmarked in CrystalDiskMark.
During the test, I checked the USB-C port transfer rate when connected to an external SSD, using a Lexar Armour 700 USB 3.2 Gen 2x2 drive. The port managed just under 1,000MB/s transfer rate, with a score of 976.27MB/s read and 968.92MB/s write, showing that this is a USB 3.2 Gen 2 interface, while not the fastest, it still delivers decent transfer rates if you need to use an external drive for video or images.
When it came to render speed from Adobe Premiere Pro, the RTX 5070 Ti did the brunt of the processing, reflected in the Cinebench scores with a CPU multi score of 32,863 and single CPU score of 2,175, which are within the range for premium creative and gaming laptops.
As testing continued, I was able to batch edit multiple images shot on the Sony A7 IV within Adobe Bridge and Photoshop, as well as apply quick changes and organise files within Adobe Lightroom. The machine rendered thumbnails and effects quickly. I was impressed with the quality of the screen, which I didn't expect to be quite as good for a laptop that's firstly gaming and secondly at this price.
Checking the quality of the screen with DataColor Spyder X2 Ultra, it was awarded an overall rating of 4.5, which is very good, scoring maximum points on both gamut and contrast, while the white point and colour uniformity both came in at 4.5. While colour accuracy was slightly down, this isn't a creative-focused laptop, but with a colour accuracy of 4, it still displayed sRGB at 100%, Adobe RGB 79%, and P3 at a respectable 81%.
Essentially, for workflow, gaming, and multimedia playback, this monitor is high quality; however, if you are looking to use this machine for critical creative work, you need to be mindful that the colours won't be 100% accurate.
For gaming, this is where it really comes into its own. While it can't compete with a dedicated desktop gaming machine, the performance afforded by the AMD Ryzen 9 HX CPU and GeForce RTX really does make it stand out, with some of the fastest benchmarking results I have seen for a laptop of this type, including a Wild Life overall score of 40,003, Fire Strike at 35,793, and Time Spy at 15,855. These are in line with premium laptops that can cost almost double what you'd pay for the Chuwi GameBook.
When it comes to performance, the display, keyboard and touchpad layout are all well considered, and while the fans do kick in under load, considering the price, that is more than acceptable.
Alongside all the hardware is the Chuwi Easy Care maintenance application, which is an in-depth dashboard for your system. It enables you to monitor the machine, the use of internal memory, and gives you access to easy driver updates, system optimisation, and the health of the system.
There are also three different power modes: Office, Balanced and Turbo, two of which can be activated when on battery power, with the third only accessible when plugged into the AC main power. The first mode is Office, taking the CPU right down to minimum, conserving power, so if you're commuting or working on battery, you can maximise battery life.
Then there's Balance, which balances CPU and fan power but gives a bit more performance, and Turbo, which can only be used when plugged into AC power and boosts overall performance, making it ideal for content creation or gaming. The most significant performance boost is when you push the turbo button, running a side-by-side test with 3D Mark Fire Strike on Office mode, it scored 34,958, switching to Balanced produced a score of 35689, and Turbo mode produced 37,417 at each stage, marking a noticeable change in performance.
What I also like is that you can go into the BIOS and select which power mode to use as default, so if you always game, you can leave it in Turbo mode, though once you're unplugged from AC, it will switch to Balanced. If you mostly work on office documents, select Office mode to maximise battery, and if you do a bit of everything, Balanced would be the one to set as default.
Chuwi has put the work into making this extremely usable, and the BIOS is testament to this. It looks modern and, for once, is easy to navigate with all the options and settings clearly laid out, and if you need to swap boot drives, change default performance modes, or anything else you'd usually do in the BIOS, it's all here and easy to find.
At the end of the test, I am impressed with just how good this laptop is for the price, its performance puts it well within the premium laptop range, yet while it's expensive, it's far cheaper than other laptops with similar specifications, and the fact that it includes some of the latest technology means that it's great for gaming and office work, as well as content creation, although you do need to check the colour accuracy for critical creative work.
Performance: 5 / 5
(Image credit: Alastair Jennings)
Chuwi GameBook 9955HX: Final verdict
(Image credit: Alastair Jennings)
If you were to write a wish list for a high-performance laptop, the GameBook 9955HX pretty much hits almost every point. It has a large 16-inch screen which is beautifully uniform, with a slightly matte finish making it extremely viewable, and the large keyboard just makes it easy to use for office applications and gaming.
Connectivity options might be a little limited in comparison with premium laptops, for example, downgrading to USB 3.2 Gen 2 rather than USB4, but still, with a 1,000MB/s average transfer rate, it's decent.
The different power modes take it from Balance, Office to Turbo, essentially giving the machine a huge boost in power, making it ideal as you swap from low-to mid-demand applications, across to higher, and the machine just gives you that additional power needed to complete tasks that would otherwise be time-consuming on a slower machine, though there is a sacrifice in battery life.
Across the board, I've been impressed with the build quality, hardware, upgradeability, and performance. Chuwi has also included their own health management software in the form of Chuwi Easy Care to enable you to keep an eye on the overall health of the machine. If you go into the BIOS, there is a comprehensive set of options that look easy to navigate and understand, with a modern design that is a breakaway from what is more ordinarily seen on most other laptops.
As a complete solution, the GameBook is a solid option that's well priced, powerful, and offers enough to satisfy all types of users.
Should I buy a Chuwi GameBook 9955HX?
Value
Exceptional value for money for top-of-the-range CPU/GPU, usually at a much greater price
5
Design
The design is a little mixed, with a high-quality monitor casing, coupled with a plastic main body
4
Features
Has a good range of features that help to balance the cost of components with performance
4.5
Performance
With three easy-to-access power modes, you can adjust how the machine performs to suit your needs
5
Overall
Exceptional value for money with performance you expect from a premium laptop
5
Buy it if...
You want a high-performance machine on a budget.
It's hard to believe you get as much as you do for the price. While it is still an expensive machine compared with rivals, it is considerably less expensive.
You want lots of storage capacity.
There are 2 x M.2 2280 SSD slots in the machine, one of which is a PCIe 5.0, giving flexibility over the internal storage, which is easily upgraded.
Don't buy it if...
You need fast external storage.
While there is USB-C, it is only USB 3.2 Gen 2, offering a maximum of 10GB per second, which might not be fast enough for some working in the creative sector.
You need colour accuracy.
While the monitor is very good when it comes to colour gamut, it is limited and really aimed at games, multimedia and general use rather than critical creative accuracy.
The Anthros V2 Chair is, as the name would imply, the second iteration of Anthros' gaming chair. Geared towards both desk workers, whether in-office or remote, and gamers alike, it is a complicated product, with more knobs and levers than your local knob-and-lever factory.
It also promises to ‘fix your sit’ which, if true in its promise, would be life-changing for anyone that struggles with posture or back pain.
There's one caveat, however; this baby is expensive. With the base model sitting at a list price of over $2,000, before any of the optional bells and whistles you can add on, such as materials, colours, and even arm rests which come as extras, you'd be forgiven for hoping this chair might make you breakfast and do the laundry for you while you're at it.
For context, this is far more expensive than our current favorite premium pick, the Herman Miller x Logitech Embody, and you could also buy three Branch Verve chairs for the same price, too (roughly).
Everything about the chair screams premium, though, from the materials used to the build quality of every component. I could never bring myself to spend this much money on a chair, but since I'm at my desk for a minimum of eight hours every day, comfort and back support are essential. And I'm not sure you're going to find it anywhere better than with the Anthros V2 Chair.
(Image credit: Future)
Anthros Chair V2 review: Price and availability
$2,146 / Around £1,600 / Around AU$3,300
Price doesn’t include extras - even armrests
More expensive than the Herman Miller X Logitech Embody
Outside of the astronomical price tag, what are you actually getting with the Anthros V2 Chair? How could it possibly be worth that much? Well, according to Anthros themselves, it's all about the technology behind it, and how it's "engineered to relieve pain". The seat features a contoured cushion that utilises 'Cloudtex' and 'Cloudfloat' technology, as opposed to traditional office and gaming chairs, which are usually flat.
This is part of what makes the Anthros V2 Chair so comfortable to sit in for extended periods, and in my experience with it over the last four months, it works. Compared to my previous office butt-rest, which was a bog-standard gaming chair from a relatively cheap brand compared to some of the premium offerings in that department, this has been like night and day.
The seat isn't everything, though, as the Anthros V2 Chair promises plenty of lumbar support, and this comes from two areas. The back rest is in two segments, which are "designed to promote an optimal ’S’ curve of the spine by supporting the pelvis", according to the official site. Both are controlled individually with knobs underneath the seat, so you can position them as you see fit. It'll feel slightly uncomfortable at first, but the idea is that the chair makes you unable to slouch by keeping your spine upright.
An important note to make folks aware of is, at the time of writing, the Anthros chair is only sold on a US-facing website, but shoppers from outside the United States can still order it with international shipping.
Anthros V2 Chair review: Specs
Price
$2,146 (around £1,600 / AU$3,300 plus shipping from the US)
Dimensions (L x W x H)
28 x 18.3 x 43.7in (45.7 x 46.6 x 110.9cm)
Max user weight
300 lbs (136kg)
Seat width
19.8in (50.3cm)
Warranty
12 years
Finish
Athlon performance fabric
Anthros Chair V2 review: Design and aesthetics
Premium feel…
Except one minor part
Lacks a headrest
I've talked about the cost a lot because of how jaw-dropping it is initially, but I also must stress how it isn't completely unjustified. Every part of this chair is high quality, from the swivel base to the seat cushion, back panel, arm rests, and the control knobs.
All of the mandatory parts for the chair feel excellent, but the one exception to this is the footrest. They've currently dropped it from $199 to $49, which the skeptic in me would assume is because they've had feedback that it's so underwhelming and cheap-feeling compared to the rest of the chair. It's plasticky, lacks many adjustments such as the ability to raise or lower it, and it can't even be locked at a specific tilt angle. Save your cash and pick one up from another manufacturer.
There's also no headrest on the Anthros V2 Chair, which some folks may find frustrating. It put me off at first, but after a while, you don't miss it. It's easier to stay awake and alert without a headrest, and while I'd like an optional headrest attachment to use when I'm reclining and playing video games with a controller, it's a small thing to lose when I feel better in my posture and more attentive during the working day.
(Image credit: Future)
Anthros Chair V2 review: Comfort and Adjustability
Comfy for long periods
You can feel a difference in your posture
Somewhat of a learning curve
As mentioned earlier, the motto for the Anthros V2 Chair is that it will "fix your sit", but doing that requires comfort. I am extremely happy to report this is by far the comfiest chair I've used for long periods… although I didn't think that at first. It takes some getting used to because if you're using it correctly, you'll have the lower back section pushing into you. If you let it shape your back, then over time, your posture should improve.
Anthros are well aware that purchasing such an expensive chair is an investment, so you're offered a video call with one of their on-staff therapists to "learn more about the chair and how it can specifically help you".
I spoke with Anthros’ Ambassador Community Director, Ashley Williams, for 20 minutes or so, alongside carrying out this review, learning a little more about the science behind it, how they went through iterations of the product, and what it looks like underneath the shell. She also helped me set up all the various configurations to perfectly suit my height and desk setup, such as where the arm rests sit, how far forward the lower back support should be, and more.
(Image credit: Future)
That customer service goes a long way, so even though the chair was provided free of charge for review purposes, knowing that service is available to anyone who buys the chair - or who wants to discuss the product prior to purchase - it's the sort of support you value. It's especially helpful when you consider how many knobs and adjustments the chair has, which means it has a slight learning curve, and referring to the manual is required until you learn which part tweaks each aspect.
Four months in and I'm thoroughly impressed. If I'd spent upwards of $2,000 on the chair, would I feel the same? I'm not sure, but that's because that's a lot of money for me. If you're lucky enough that this wouldn't be such a financial investment, this is one of the best chairs on the market for long-term ergonomic support.
(Image credit: Future)
Anthros Chair V2 review: Assembly
Putting it all together is a painless experience, entirely feasible to do by yourself, and you'll be done in under an hour.
However, this comes with a caveat. Everything with the assembly went flawlessly until the very final step, which is to install the upper back cuff.
This plastic cover for the upper back hinge refused to go on, no matter how hard I tried, so I put it down for a few days. I came back to it later, and it eventually clicked into place, but be prepared to use some serious force.
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Should I buy the Anthros Chair V2?
Buy it if...
You struggle to sit for extended periods in other chairs and experience back pain This is the comfiest long-term gaming chair I've used, and from reading the experience of other's online, folks with more severe issues than mine with their back applaud the Anthros V2 Chair for fixing their problems.
You have the money to spend on a chair this expensive Again, it's not cheap. Even a Herman Miller, albeit still expensive, is cheaper than the Anthros V2 Chair. But if you have the cash to splash, you can't go wrong, and you certainly won’t regret it.
You want to fix your posture Fixing your posture with the Anthros V2 Chair still requires some effort and thought, but the upper and lower back supports are enormous tools to help with that.View Deal
Don't buy it if...
You don't use a chair for most of your working day If you're not mostly sedentary during your job, the Anthros V2 Chair is probably overkill, and you can find comfort in something cheaper.
You're unsure whether you can safely afford it Don't bankrupt yourself just for the sake of a comfy chair. There are other, cheaper options available - and remember, even the armrests will cost you extra.
Anthros Chair V2: Also consider
If the Anthros V2 Chair hasn't sunk its claws into you or it's out of reach financially, consider one of these other desk chairs that promise similar results.
Anthros V2 Chair
Herman Miller x Logitech Embody
Branch Verve
Price
$2,146 (around £1,600 / AU$3,300 plus shipping from the US)
$1,795 / £1,496
$549 (about £495, AU$860)
Dimensions (L x W x H)
28 x 18.3 x 43.7 in (45.7 x 46.6 x 110.9 cm)
29 x 29.5 x 45 in (73.7 x 74.9 x 114.3 cm)
27 x 27 x 37 to 41 in (68.6 x 68.6 x 104.1 cm)
Max user weight
300 lbs (136kg)
300 lbs (136kg)
300 lbs (136kg)
Seat width
19.8in (50.3cm)
29.5in (74.9cm)
16.5in (41.9cm)
Warranty
12 years
12 years
7 years
Finish
Athlon performance fabric
100% polyester fabric
3D knit polyester fabric
Herman Miller x Logitech Embody Herman Miller has long been considered the king of office and gaming chairs, having built their brand reputation over the course of many years. While Anthros is coming for a slice of the pie, the Herman Miller Embody is perhaps the cream of the crop from the gaming chair competitor. It's a little cheaper than the Anthros ($1,795), it comes pre-assembled, looks seriously slick.
Branch Verve For a non-gaming office chair alternative, the Branch Verve is far, far cheaper than the Anthros V2 Chair, coming in at $549, yet still boasting plenty of ergonomic features and an attractive design. There's a reason it's rated our best office chair of 2025, and it isn't just because it has a much cooler name than the Anthros.
Worked from it during the day, usually locked into the upright position
Often gamed from it in the evening, reclining with a controller in hand
I can never see myself going back to any other seat or gaming chair after using the Anthros V2 Chair for so long. My back feels better for it, and I'm looking forward to experiencing some more of the long-term benefits. As explained above, it'll take a little while for you to start feeling positive changes, but it's well worth sticking with it.
I work 9-5, typing and using my computer as normal, then recently I've started playing Rematch in the evenings on PC, for which I use an Xbox controller. I adjust the tilt and recline, keeping the back supports in the same position, so my spine still fits into that S shape.
Thermal imaging has come a long way from bulky, industrial-grade gear to sleek, smartphone-powered tools. The Thermal Master P3 is a prime example of that evolution. Building on the success of its predecessors, particularly the ultra-compact P2 Pro, the P3 refines the formula with sharper resolution, manual focus, and a more tactile, professional-grade build. It’s a device that doesn’t just fit in your pocket; it earns its place in your toolkit.
At its core, the P3 is a plug-in thermal camera designed for Android and iOS devices, offering a native 256×192 infrared resolution that can be digitally enhanced to 512×384 using the brand’s X³ IR software. That’s a notable leap from the P2 Pro’s fixed-focus setup, which, while impressively portable, lacked the precision needed for close-up diagnostics. The addition of manual focus and a macro lens transforms the P3 into a serious contender for professionals who need more than just a thermal snapshot.
The build quality also marks a shift in tone. Where the P2 Pro leaned into minimalism with its featherweight plastic shell, the P3 opts for an aerospace alloy body that feels solid and premium without sacrificing portability. It’s still light enough to carry anywhere, but now rugged enough to survive the kind of environments where thermal imaging is most useful.
So who’s this for? The P3 is ideal for engineers, HVAC technicians, electricians, and anyone working in diagnostics or maintenance. It’s particularly well-suited to electronics professionals who need to spot micro-heating anomalies on PCBs, thanks to its macro lens and manual focus. It’s also a smart pick for field inspectors who want a reliable thermal tool without the bulk or battery anxiety of standalone imagers.
In short, the Thermal Master P3 isn’t just an upgrade — it’s an evolutionary step. It takes the portability of the P2 Pro and adds the kind of precision and build quality that professionals demand. If you’ve been waiting for a thermal camera that’s as serious about detail as you are, the P3 might be the one to beat.
(Image credit: Mark Pickavance)
Thermal Master P3: price and availability
How much does it cost? $299/£299/€299
When is it out? It is available now
Where can you get it? You can get it in most regions from an online reseller and directly from Thermal Master.
Thermal Master P3 offers one of the best balances of resolution, manual focus, and build quality at the $299 mark. It's available direct from the Thermal Master official site here.
At that price, it is comfortably below flagship models like the FLIR One Pro, yet offers superior thermal resolution and control. While it lacks a visible light overlay and requires sideloading on Android, these trade-offs are minor compared to the imaging clarity and build quality it provides.
It can be bought on Amazon.com, but the price there is the MSRP of $349.
The Thermal Master P2 Pro is cheaper and more portable, but the lack of manual focus makes it less suitable for detailed inspections.
I'd position the P3 as a mid-range powerhouse that punches above its weight in precision and build quality, especially for professionals in electronics and HVAC.
(Image credit: Mark Pickavance)
Value score: 4/5
Thermal Master P3: Specs
Feature
Specification
Model
Thermal Master P3
Infrared Sensor
RazorX? IQ+
IR Resolution
256×192 (native), 512×384 (via X³ IR? upscaling)
Temperature Range
-20°C to 600°C
Accuracy
±2°C or ±2% (whichever is greater)
NETD (Sensitivity)
Estimated <50mK
Focal Length
4.3 mm
Focus Type
Manual focus + macro lens
Digital Zoom
Up to 15×
Frame Rate
<9Hz (standard for consumer thermal imagers)
Image Enhancement
X³ IR™ software upscaling
Colour Palettes
12 options (e.g. whitehot, ironred, red hot)
Compatibility
Android (USB-C), iOS (Lightning/USB-C), Windows PC
App Availability
iOS App Store; Android via sideload
Body Material
Aerospace alloy
Dimensions
59 × 27 × 17.2 mm
Weight
26.3g
Power Consumption
Low (powered via phone connection)
Use Cases
PCB inspection, HVAC, automotive, pipelines
Thermal Master P3: Design
Tiny camera
PC and phone
50mK NETD
If cuteness played a part in this evaluation, then the P3 would score highly.
This tiny camera measures just 59mm across, is 27mm high, and only 17.2mm thick, with most of that thickness being the length of the lens.
There is only a single control on it, that being the twisting lens to focus, everything else is done from the phone or PC app.
What’s less endearing is that the thermal sensor is exposed, as Thermal Master didn’t include a lens cap for this device. What you do get is a soft carry case that includes a short 27mm adapter to use it with an Apple Lightning connector.
Included in the box is a longer, 45cm cable that connects the P3 to a PC using either USB-C or USB-A. Disappointingly, those at Thermal Master responsible for creating the soft carry case weren’t informed about this cable, and it won’t fit with the camera in the case.
That’s annoying, and another consideration is that using it with a Laptop or desktop PC means there’s no tripod or other way to position it without holding the camera.
If you are using this device to analyse a motherboard for hot spots, you’ll need to rig something temporary up, or print your own mounting system with a 3D printer.
Those using it with a phone might also have issues, since the USB-C blade on the camera is deeper than some phone ports, causing a gap between the two. Obviously, since it’s USB-C, it is possible to put the camera in either facing the user or away, but as it’s necessary to see the screen, away is the most useful.
When it’s inserted, the P3 draws power from the phone or PC, which might reduce battery life if the exercise is a prolonged one.
(Image credit: Mark Pickavance)
In terms of the thermal technology in this camera, the P3 uses the same RazorX IQ+ sensor that Thermal Master used in the P2 Pro. Its native resolution is 256×192, but on this device, Thermal Master has implemented X³ IR upscaling to deliver 512×384 by combining the data from multiple passes.
That’s much better than the 160×200 offered by the FLIR Lepton 3.5 sensor, and the sensitivity is similar. These sensors are rated by NETD, defined as the smallest temperature difference a thermal sensor can detect before the signal becomes indistinguishable from noise. Typically, it’s measured in millikelvin (mK), and the RazorX IQ+ is rated as better than 50mK. The best devices are <25mK, good are <50mK, and some less desirable choices can only register 70mK.
The other vital specification for this sensor is its temperature range, which is -20°C to 600°C, with an accuracy of plus or minus 2°C. That probably makes it unsuitable for those forging metals that have high melting points, but it’s fine for heating systems and vehicle repairs.
(Image credit: Mark Pickavance)
Design score: 4/5
Thermal Master P3: User experience
Android and iOS
Good quality captures
Limited PC connection
While it does work with a PC, the P3 was made with smartphone users in mind. For those using an Apple phone, on the iPhone 15 and newer models, a Lightning Port or USB-C is required. The P3 includes a USB-C to Lightning adapter for older models. The device should run on iOS version 13 or higher to ensure app compatibility and feature support. Additionally, the device should be an iPhone 7 or newer, as older models may struggle with resolution upscaling and frame rate.
For Android users, ensuring compatibility with the P3 app and stable performance, a device must have a USB-C port for direct connection and OTG (On-The-Go) support enabled. The device should run on Android version 8.0 or higher. A Snapdragon 660 or equivalent processor and above is recommended for smooth image rendering and upscaling. Additionally, the device should have at least 3GB of RAM to handle high-resolution thermal data and ensure app responsiveness.
I’ll talk about performance later, but the first significant irritation of this platform is that for Android users, the app must be downloaded and then sideloaded. Why it isn’t on the Google Play Store is a mystery, since the iOS version is on Apple’s store.
This isn’t a straightforward exercise for an average Android user, as it involves configuring the phone to accept sideloaded apps, and then finding the right version on the Thermal Master website. The file actually comes via Dropbox, and for some inexplicable reason “.1” was added to the file extension, meaning that Android phones won’t identify this as an app.
To install the app, it needs to be renamed to the “.apk” extension.
Did anyone at Thermal Master test this? It’s just a magnet for support calls in its current form.
Once installed, the app correctly identified the P3, but confusingly, the app is called the Thermal Master P2 app. I presume this is because this app was written for the P2 Pro, and the developers assumed it would never be used with any other hardware.
That said, it did enable the X³ IR upscaling on the P3, a feature missing from the P2 Pro.
This multi-pass mode generates better resolution images, but it significantly reduces the framerate, regardless of the phone’s power. That makes it harder to use, unfortunately.
I suspect that the real issue here is that USB-C ports on Android devices are normally USB 2.0, and the amount of data that needs to flow back probably hits the transfer speed limits.
But whatever the reason, if high-quality images are required, then it’s something you may be forced to work around. For thermal images, the results are good, better than the Thor002 I recently reviewed.
However, there is a missing piece to this puzzle that phones with inbuilt sensors can do, but this system doesn’t offer. Phones with a thermal camera in their sensor often have a mode that captures a conventional light image with a thermal one. These are either stored alongside each other or combined to form a hybrid image.
(Image credit: Mark Pickavance)
The P3 software doesn’t offer the hybrid option to use the phone camera to show the location in conventional light, but it does have a picture-in-picture option. In this mode, it captures a smaller version of the rear camera image and floats it above the thermal image. The problem here is that the zoom levels between the two images are massively different, and while you can zoom the P3 sensor, there is no control over the normal light camera.
It also doesn’t work if you have the P3 inserted to look forward, and it doesn’t save both images individually when you snap a shot.
Images are saved at 1440 x 1080, which is at least a proper ratio of the natural 256 x 192 sensor. They both have a 1.33 ratio, which is an improvement over the Thor002 captures, which were stretched by arbitrary numbers.
For those wondering, the capture resolution appears to be unrelated to the screen of the capture phone, since in my tests I used the Oukitel WP210, and that has the curious resolution of 1080 x 2412.
Overall, this is an excellent thermal camera. My only reservation about it is that to use the X³ IR upscaling seems to require an inordinate amount of processing power, slowing updates markedly. That’s even on a relatively powerful phone.
I suspect that GPU acceleration in many SoCs could make its use less demanding if Thermal Master recoded the application to make better use of those chips.
A word of warning. If you get one of these and use it with a phone, don’t forget to remove it after use, as the power consumption of the camera will drain the battery if you leave it connected.
(Image credit: Mark Pickavance)
The PC application is exclusively on Windows, and it defaults to Chinese on installation, so you will need to alter that to English if, like me, you don’t speak that language.
Interestingly, the PC tool is a cut-down version of the phone application, missing some of the more exotic features. There is no X³ IR upscaling toggle, as it appears to be active all the time, and supporting that assertion, the output of captured files is 512 x 384 resolution.
The big issue I encountered with the PC software is that the camera is on the USB cable, so it needs to be held by the user all the time. After a very short time, this becomes exceedingly frustrating, since manually focusing something you are holding is a fraught exercise. On the PC, this hardware so badly needs a tripod or at least something that enables the camera to be mounted.
That there is no Apple Mac OS or Linux tool is disappointing for those who use those platforms. There also isn’t a ChromeOS app, but it might be possible to use the Android software in that context.
Overall, the software could be better, but it works.
(Image credit: Mark Pickavance)
User experience score: 3.5/5
(Image credit: Mark Pickavance)
Thermal Master P3 Camera samples
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Thermal Master P3: Final verdict
This product is tantalisingly close to being brilliant, but it needs a stand/tripod/mount, and the software needs refinement. Undoubtedly, the part that Thermal Master nailed was the hardware of the camera, which could only be bettered with software-controllable focus.
Overall, the P3 is a significant improvement over the P2, and the best add-on thermal solution I’ve seen so far.
If Thermal Master could come up with a tripod, it would stand head and shoulders above the competitor offerings.
Should I buy a Thermal Master P3?
Thermal Master P3 Score Card
Attributes
Notes
Rating
Value
High quality at a reasonable price
4/5
Design
Highly engineered and portable
4/5
User experience
Needs a tripod and improved software
3.5/5
Overall
Excellent quality and easy to carry
4/5
Buy it if...
Thermal imaging is often needed Much better than a phone with FLIR sensors, and easier to get the best from, this might be the only thermal camera you need.
You need to track changes over time One of the standout features of this camera is the ability to track changes over time, either using time-lapse or with a thermal alarm. For those tracking a plumbing issue or damaged power cabling, these features could be invaluable.
Don't buy it if...
You have a secure phone Android app requires sideloading, which may deter less technical users or raise security concerns — especially in enterprise environments where official app store access is preferred.
You have a medical requirement Thermal cameras aren’t a substitute for a medical device to measure body temperature, even if its quoted accuracy is 2 °C plus or minus. We would strongly advise that if you want to identify someone with a fever, there are better and more reliable ways than this.
Also Consider
InfiRay Xinfrared P2 Pro A small add-on that can be used with the majority of Android and iOS phones to enable thermal image capture. Plugging into the USB-C port, this tiny device can achieve a resolution of 256 x 192 and has a magnetically attached macro lens.
While this sounds ideal for the very occasional user, it isn't any cheaper than the P3 and has a lower resolution sensor.
The Cherry XTRFY MX 3.1 is a wired mechanical keyboard with the simple aim of delivering great gaming performance.
Its sleek appearance is achieved thanks to the low profile keycaps with their prominent indentations, and despite being made from ABS, they look and feel every bit as premium as their PBT counterparts.
What’s more, the very bright RGB lighting looks particularly striking on the white colorway. The metal chassis, however, looks less impressive, coming across a little cheap.
Fortunately, it feels more solid than it appears – as does the whole board for that matter, equaling what the best gaming keyboards have to offer. It’s reasonably heavy as a result, but not onerously so.
The detachable USB cable also feels premium. It’s braided which makes it more flexible, and it’s quite long, too, which makes it easier to route on various setups.
The software that attends the MX 3.1 is quite limited compared to those of other gaming keyboards, containing only a handful of shortcuts rebind options and a basic macro facility – and not much else besides. This will no doubt disappoint gamers after deep customization options.
To game with, the MX2A switches in the MX 3.1 are heavier than you might expect. They feel quite clicky with minimal dampening, which can make them feel a little harsh when hammering away at them.
This aspect isn’t helped by the short travel of the keys. Thankfully, those indentations on the keycaps are comfortable and secure, which makes them ideal for both gaming and typing.
I also appreciated the rounded back edge of the space bar, which softens the impact when you hit it. This is especially useful given the shallow angle of the layout: instead of fold-out feet, the MX 3.1 comes with two sets of screw-in pins with different heights. No matter which set I installed, the layout always seemed too flat for my liking. Combined with the thick body, this means the MX 3.1 can get uncomfortable after long sessions.
It’s priced slightly below what you might expect from a wired mechanical gaming keyboard, but in today’s market there are plenty of great value models offering more features and stronger performance for less.
(Image credit: Future)
Cherry XTRFY MX 3.1 review: price and availability
$129 (about £100 / AU$200)
Available now in three colorways
Slight below-average pricing
The MX 3.1 costs $129 (about £100 / AU$200) and is available now in black, white, and pink colorways, although the latter is currently only available in Asia.
This is a slightly-below average price for a full-size wired mechanical keyboard, but there are plenty of wired and even wireless alternatives that perform just as well, if not better, for less money.
Take the Roccat Magma, for instance, which is our pick as the best gaming keyboard for those on a budget. It may feature membrane rather than mechanical switches and exhibit less-than-stellar build quality, but its performance is sharp and accurate and has a miniscule price tag in comparison to the MX 3.1.
Even the wireless MonsGeek Fun60 Ultra is cheaper than the MX 3.1, albeit not by as much. This board supports both 2.4GHz and Bluetooth connections, and features TMR analog switches that allow for far greater customization. I also found it great to both game and type on.
Value: 3 / 5
Cherry XTRFY MX 3.1 review: specs
Layout
Full size
Switch
Mechanical
Programmable keys
Yes
Dimensions
17.1 x 5.4 x 1.4 inches (435 x 138 x 35mm)
RGB or backlighting
Yes (customizable)
(Image credit: Future)
Cherry XTRFY MX 3.1 review: design and features
Solid and sturdy construction
No folding feet
Limited software
The MX 3.1 has a simple yet sleek design. The speckled metal chassis that frames the entire board features angular contours and sporadic holes, all of which add some interest. However, this frame ultimately looks a little cheap and harks back to a bygone era of gaudy gaming peripherals.
The very bright and vibrant RGB lighting, on the other hand, is striking yet tasteful. It certainly attracts plenty of attention, especially on the white model, which it complements rather well.
Build quality is very good as well, with the whole unit feeling quite sturdy and heavy, more so than perhaps it looks. That metal chassis is solid as you could wish for, and so too are the plastics, which means the MX 3.1 should stand the test of time.
The keycaps look elegant thanks to their low profile and deep indentations. Despite being made from ABS, they feel every bit as premium as PBT varieties. They feel super smoother under the finger tips, too.
(Image credit: Future)
Their overall size is quite small compared to those on other mechanical keyboards, which makes the whole of the MX 3.1 feel more compact. It’s a shame, however, that there’s no volume dial, with F-row shortcuts relied on for this function in its place.
Instead of foldable feet, the MX 3.1 comes with two sets of pins of different lengths that screw into the back end of the board to adjust the angle. While this method arguably offers a more secure footing, it’s a less sophisticated and more time-consuming solution.
What’s more, even the longer pins aren’t tall enough to create an angle I was entirely comfortable with. This issue is exacerbated by the thick chassis – and lack of wrist support – which meant my wrists had to bend upwards more than I would’ve liked.
The MX 3.1 comes with a long, braided USB cable, which makes it amenable to various setups and routing options. The central placement of the USB-C port also helps with these aspects.
The companion software for the MX 3.1, the Cherry Utility Software, is quite sparse compared to rival tools. Every key can be remapped to another, but there are only a handful of system and media shortcuts available to assign, while the macro creator is very basic. Those looking for more performance based tweaks will be disappointed.
Design & features: 3.5 / 5
Cherry XTRFY MX 3.1 review: performance
Switches heavier than expected
Good for typing
Considerate space bar design
The MX2A Silent Red linear switches are quite clicky with little dampening, which makes them feel harsh when hit hard. They’re also quite heavy to press, which is most noticeable when using the WASD keys for in-game movement. This resistance is somewhat surprising, given the short travel of the keys themselves.
This short travel makes the MX 3.1 great for typing on, though, as do the aforementioned keycap indentations, since they provide both security and feedback when touch typing. Their low profile also helps to compensate for the whole unit’s lack of tilt, allowing my fingers to stay relatively flat while dancing around the keys, which I find more comfortable.
Another aspect of the MX 3.1 I appreciated is the soft curve on the back edge of the space bar, as this cushions impacts with the thumb. It’s a shame this curve is confined to the center rather than extending along the entire edge, but I still appreciated its inclusion.
(Image credit: Future)
Performance: 3.5/ 5
Should I buy the Cherry XTRFY MX 3.1?
Gamakay TK75HE V2 Scorecard
Attributes
Notes
Rating
Value
It costs less than the average price for a mechanical keyboard, but there are cheaper alternatives with more features.
3 / 5
Design and features
The MX 3.1 is elegant, despite the somewhat dated design of the metal frame. It’s built to a surprisingly high standard, too, although the software is underwhelming.
3.5 / 5
Performance
The switches are heavier than you might expect, but typing is satisfying. The lack of angle can cause some ergonomic issues.
3.5 / 5
Overall
The MX 3.1 doesn’t do anything to set the gaming keyboard world alight. While it’s solid in some regards, it’s too expensive for what it offers.
3.5 / 5
Buy it if…
You want a solid build The metal chassis and plastics are strong. The keycaps feel premium, too, more so than their ABS material might suggest.
You want great keycaps Despite their ABS construction, the keycaps feel great, with their low profile and indentations making for easy typing.
Don’t buy it if…
You want to tinker The companion software for the MX 3.1 is very limited relative to what some other manufacturers offer.
You want to save money The MX 3.1 is reasonable compared to other wired mechanical keyboards, but there are many alternatives that represent better value.
Cherry XTRFY MX 3.1 review: also consider
Cherry XTRFY MX 3.1
MonsGeek FUN60 Ultra
Roccat Magma
Layout
Full size
60%
Full size
Switch
Mechanical
Analog (TMR magnetic)
Membrane
Programmable keys
Yes
Yes
Yes
Dimensions
17.1 x 5.4 x 1.4 inches (435 x 138 x 35mm)
11.5 x 4 x 1.1 inches (293 x 102.5 x 28.5mm)
17.8 x 6.2 x 1.5 inches (452 x 157 x 39mm)
RGB or backlighting
Yes (customizable)
Yes (customizable)
Yes (customizable)
Roccat Magma The Roccat Magma is much cheaper than the MX 3.1, and while the build quality isn’t the strongest, we found its performance worthy of a gaming keyboard. For those just starting out, it’s a good choice since you won’t be spending untold amounts to get one. Read our full Roccat Magma review.
MonsGeek FUN60 Ultra It might not be hugely cheaper than the MX 3.1, but the FUN60 Ultra is better value. It has two wireless modes, TMR analog switches with heaps of customizations, and satisfying gaming performance. It’s also built to a high standard. Read our full MonsGeek FUN60 Ultra review.
How I tested the Cherry XTRFY MX 3.1
Tested for a week
Used for gaming and working
Extensive gaming keyboard experience
I tested the MX 3.1 for about a week, during which time I used it for gaming and working.
I played Counter-strike 2, which is a great test for keyboards given the demands it places on fast and its requirement of precise inputs. I also played games that make greater use of the entire layout, such as Abiotic Factor.
I’ve been PC gaming for over a decade, and during that time I’ve experienced a vast array of gaming keyboards. I’ve also tested a wide range of them, as well as other Cherry XTRFY products.
Anker Prime TB5 14-in-1 Docking Station: 30-second review
The Anker Prime Docking Station is a powerful unit with plenty of ports that employ the latest standards, serving the needs of creatives and other power users.
It’s rather elegant for a docking station, thanks to the premium grey metallic finish and vibrant blue light ring, which is bright enough to notice without causing distraction.
Build quality is also impressive, rivalling the best laptop docking station constructions. Every panel is solid, and the rubber feet are robust and provide plenty of dampening and protection.
However, its tall, square form could be inconducive to certain setups, since it might not fit under monitor stands and shelves. This is less of a problem for typical docking stations with their thin, rectangular shapes.
My other gripe with the Prime Docking Station concerns its power button, which isn’t very tactile and can be awkward to use. My presses would sometimes fail to register, and I wish the hold time was shorter when powering it down.
There are plenty of ports on the Prime Docking Station (14 in total), including upstreaming and downstreaming USB-C ports at the back. Both of these employ the Thunderbolt 5 standard and can also provide charge: the former at 140W and the latter 15W.
What’s more, the two downstreaming ports can support dual 8K monitors (6K when connected to macOS devices), and either can be used in conjunction with the HDMI port or the DisplayPort. Only two external monitors can be used at the same time, though, and the HDMI and DisplayPort can’t be used simultaneously, either.
The front two USB-C ports provide a combined output of 45W, which is sufficient for fast charging numerous devices. Other ports include three USB-A ports, readers for SD and TF cards, and a 3.5mm audio jack.
All of these ports function well, providing fast and stable data transmission and multi-device charging. However, there were a few occasions where my external displays lost signal for a second or so, or failed to display altogether, usually when booting up my laptop for the first time of the day.
This required a simple re-plug of the upstreaming cable to remedy, and these occurrences weren’t frequent enough to disrupt the overall experience. What’s more, I believe at least part of the blame lies with the poor multi-display optimization of Windows 11, rather than with the dock itself.
The audio jack, on the other hand, is somewhat of a let down, failing to deliver as much bass and fidelity as when connecting my headphones directly to my laptop.
The main drawback of the Prime Docking Station, though, is the price. At $400 / £400, it’s seriously expensive, and only worth the outlay if you’ll actually be using two 8K or 6K monitors, and have multiple devices to charge and peripherals to connect at once.
Anker Prime TB5 14-in-1 Docking Station: Price & availability
(Image credit: Future)
$399.99 / £399.99 (about AU$610)
Available now in the US and the UK
High-end of the market
The Anker Prime Docking Station costs $399.99 / £399.99 (about AU$610) and is available via Anker's website here, as well as online retailers including Amazon.com and Amazon.co.uk.
While there are many docking stations in the same ballpark, there are also plenty of cheaper alternatives. This includes the Kensington SD5000T5 EQ, which costs considerably less despite having a comparable spec. It also has a slimmer design to boot – no wonder we think it’s one of the best Thunderbolt 5 laptop docks around.
AC power input, 1x USB 3.2 Gen 2 Type-A, 1x USB 2.0, 1x HDMI 2.1, 1x DisplayPort 2.1, 1x 2.5GbE Ethernet
Downstream power:
2x 15W USB-C (Thunderbolt 5)
Upstream power:
140W USB-C (Thunderbolt 5)
Size:
4.6 x 4.6 x 3.0in / 116 x 116 x 75mm
Weight:
38oz / 1,086g
Accessories:
USB-C cable (Thunderbolt 5)
Anker Prime TB5 14-in-1 Docking Station: Design
(Image credit: Future)
Solid build quality
Premium looks
Divisive boxy shape
The Prime Docking Station certainly looks sleek, with its dark grey metallic body, which is nicely complemented by the blue light ring around the top edge. This is bright enough to add interest, but dim enough to avoid being a distraction. Even the rear vents are stylishly designed, and help to make it fit for any professional environment.
While it’s pleasingly thin across its width, the Prime Docking Station is quite tall and thick across its depth. This might prove to be an issue for those looking to slot it underneath their monitor stand or similar, as I doubt it’ll fit comfortably under all of them.
There’s no denying the premium construction of the Prime Docking Station, though. It’s extremely solid and sturdy, and the four rubber feet are certainly thick enough to dampen any operating vibrations and protect your desktop surface.
The power button, however, is a slight misstep. It doesn’t feel very tactile, and it can be hard to tell when you’ve actually pressed it properly. There were numerous occasions when I thought I’d pressed it, but it failed to actuate.
Design: 3.5 / 5
Anker Prime TB5 14-in-1 Docking Station: Features
(Image credit: Future)
14 ports
Thunderbolt 5 support
Blue light indicator
The Prime Docking Station has three Thunderbolt 5 ports, all located on the back. One is for upstreaming and also provides 140W of PD charging. The other two are for downstreaming and each supports 8K monitors (or 6K if used with a macOS device). They’re also capable of transferring data at 120Gbps and charging at 15W.
Also on the back is an HDMI port and a DisplayPort, although both can’t be used at the same time. If two connections are present, the latter will take precedent. Thankfully, either of these ports can be used in conjunction with one of the Thunderbolt 5 ports for dual-display setups. Unfortunately, though, the Prime Docking Station can’t support three external monitors.
Rounding out the rear interfaces are two USB-A ports, each of which is capable of data transfer speeds of up to 10Gbps. On the left side you’ll find TF and SD card readers, the latter of which accepts most form factors.
The front of the Prime Docking Station features two more USB-C ports – each with a data transfer speed of up to 10Gbps and a combined 45W output – and one more USB-A port, again capable of transferring data at 10Gbps. A 3.5mm Aux jack is also present for connecting headphones and other output devices.
The aforementioned blue light ring isn’t just for show: it also acts as a status indicator. It remains solid when the Prime Docking Station is powered on, and flashes twice when the upstream port is connected and in Thunderbolt 5 or 4 mode.
When the Prime Docking Station is running intense workloads involving high data transmission speeds, such as when gaming with high resolution monitors, a moving pattern is displayed. The light can be turned off altogether by pressing the power button once, while holding it for five seconds turns the entire unit off, which is slightly too long to be convenient in my view.
Accompanying software is available for the Prime Docking Station, but it’s very basic, used merely to download firmware updates and view the manual, which can also be downloaded as a PDF.
Features: 4.5 / 5
Anker Prime TB5 14-in-1 Docking Station: Performance
(Image credit: Future)
Seamless connectivity and charging
Minor external monitor issues
Awkward power button
Given the spec of the Prime Docking Station, it’s no surprise overall performance is fast and seamless. One of the immediate drawbacks of this power, though, is the fact that AC power is required at all times, so you’ll need a spare outlet nearby.
The Thunderbolt 5, HDMI and Displayport interfaces all provide stable connections to external monitors, although there were a few occasions where one of my connected displays would go black for a couple of seconds before coming back. There were also times when neither one of them was recognized, requiring me to reconnect the upstreaming cable to my laptop.
However, this could be a fault of my laptop rather than with the dock, as Windows 11 devices are known to be somewhat unreliable when handling multiple displays.
(Image credit: Future)
Connected peripherals, on the other hand, worked flawlessly in my experience. Mice and keyboards worked and charged just as well as if they were connected directly, and the same can be said of the read and write speeds of the SD card I inserted into the reader.
The audio jack, however, proved somewhat of a disappointment. Low end frequencies were noticeably weaker through my headphones, and overall fidelity seemed slightly compromised, too.
When dealing with high workloads, such as … multiple USB ports simultaneously, the Prime Docking Station does produce some fan noise. Mercifully, though, this isn’t loud enough to disturb, and neither is the small amount of heat that’s generated.
Performance: 4 / 5
Anker Prime TB5 14-in-1 Docking Station: Report card
Value
This is one expensive docking station, and only worth it for those who’ll make the most of what it has to offer.
3 / 5
Design
It’s very well engineered, but that cube shape might prove incongruous for certain setups.
3.5 / 5
Features
With plenty of ports employing the latest standards, power users should be pleased.
4.5 / 5
Performance
Peripheral connections and multi-device charging are taken in its stride, and there are only a few minor hiccups when using multiple displays.
4 / 5
Overall
The Prime Docking Station is a powerful unit, but one with a somewhat cumbersome design and a price tag that only makes sense if you plan on using it to its fullest potential.
3.5 / 5
Should I buy the Anker Prime TB5 14-in-1 Docking Station?
Buy it if...
You want good looks and build quality It’s certainly smart and sophisticated, and feels as premium as it should do at this price.
You want powerful interfaces The multiple Thunderbolt 5 ports will please power hungry and 6/8K dual-monitor users.
Don't buy it if...
You want something thin It may be compact in terms of length, but it’s quite tall and thick, which might not fit so well with certain setups.
You want to save money The Prime Docking Station is far from cheap, and unless you really need all of its power and capabilities, there are better value alternatives.
Also consider
Kensington SD5000T5 EQ If you need Thunderbolt 5 ports but are on a tighter budget, the SD5000T5 EQ is a sound choice. This is a fast and well-made unit, as well as being versatile thanks to its 11 ports. Like the Prime Docking Station, the SD5000T5 EQ also requires power from an outlet.
IOGear Dock Pro Our pick as the best docking station overall, the IOGear Dock Pro is a great all-rounder. There are no less than four HDMI/DisplayPort interfaces, and it can be powered with a PSU or via a USB-C cable. We did find it can get quite hot after a while, and there’s only one USB-C port on the entire unit, but these are about the only drawbacks.
