The DJI Osmo 360 is DJI’s long-awaited entry into the 360 camera game, and it lands with the kind of swagger and polish you’d expect from a brand that’s spent years perfecting its action-cam chops.
It’s a slick, pocketable camera that blends design cues from rivals like the Insta360 X5 and GoPro Max: it’s square-bodied, dual-lens, dark grey, and built to withstand a beating – sort of. Despite being IP68-rated and able to function in sub-zero temperatures, DJI itself discourages underwater use due to potential stitching issues, which is an odd caveat for something that’s otherwise billed as rugged. It also lacks the user-replaceable lenses that made the Insta360 X5 so appealing to adventure-minded types.
That aside, the Osmo 360 impresses from the get-go, not just for what it can do but also for how much it undercuts its main rival on price. Starting at £409.99 / AU$759, it’s significantly cheaper than Insta360’s equivalent bundles (the Osmo 360 is not available in the US at launch – see the 'Price and availability' section below for more info). And that’s before factoring in the Osmo 360’s generous 128GB of built-in storage.
(Image credit: Future | Sam Kieldsen)
Design-wise, there’s a lot to like: a crisp 2-inch touchscreen, an intuitive three-button layout, a removable battery, USB-C charging, and two mounting options (tripod thread and DJI’s own magnetic quick-release system). It feels solid in the hand, well-balanced and thoughtfully laid out.
The camera itself uses a pair of 1/1.1-inch square CMOS sensors with large 2.4μm pixels, and DJI claims that the shape allows it to use the full sensor area, setting it apart from rivals which crop quite heavily from their rectangular sensors. Whether that’s marketing spin or technical fact, the results are undeniably sharp. Video tops out at 8K 50fps in 360 mode or 5K 60fps (or 4K 120fps) with a single lens, with 10-bit color and support for the flat D-Log M profile if you want to color-grade in post.
Footage looks punchy and vibrant straight out of the camera, if occasionally a little over-processed. The camera also captures 120MP stills and includes several specialty modes, including SuperNight, which enhances low-light performance in 360 mode, and Boost, which delivers wide-angle, high-frame-rate single-lens footage reminiscent of a classic action camera. Both are welcome additions, and SuperNight in particular is impressive for after-dark footage.
(Image credit: Future | Sam Kieldsen)
Audio is handled by four built-in microphones that do a competent job in fair conditions but struggle with wind. The real standout on this front is the Osmo 360's compatibility with DJI’s own wireless microphone systems: pair it with a DJI Mic 2 or DJI Mic Mini and you can record pristine 24-bit sound, control gain and noise cancellation directly on the camera, and get clean, clear voice capture in challenging environments. It’s a genuinely useful ecosystem advantage for DJI users.
Performance is strong across the board. The Osmo 360 pairs with the existing DJI Mimo mobile app for control, previews, firmware updates and quick editing. The app includes an AI-powered auto editor for creating quick shareable clips with barely any human input, though its functionality is currently limited to daylight action like cycling or skiing.
More comprehensive editing is available in the new DJI Studio desktop app, which brings keyframing, tracking, filters and export tools to macOS and Windows PCs. It’s streamlined, easy to pick up, and feels like a real competitor to Insta360’s more mature software suite.
Ultimately, while the Osmo 360 doesn’t manage to dethrone the Insta360 X5 on pure performance (it can’t match its battery life, underwater confidence or lens swappability) it comes very close, and at a very palatable price. For anyone already in the DJI ecosystem, or those getting into 360 video capture for the first time, it’s a very solid option.
DJI Osmo 360 specs
DJI Osmo 360 specs
Type:
360 camera
Sensor:
1.1-inch x 2
Max aperture:
f/1.9
Screen:
2-inch 314 x 556 touchscreen
Storage:
128GB internal plus microSD slot (1TB max.)
Dimensions:
2.4 x 1.4 x 3.2 inches / 61 x 36 x 81mm
Weight:
6.45oz / 183g
The Osmo 360 magnetically mounted on a selfie stick (Image credit: Future | Sam Kieldsen)
DJI Osmo 360: Price and availability
Launched worldwide on July 31 2025 – except for the US
Standard Combo priced at $TBC / £409.99 / AU$759
Adventure Combo priced at $TBC / £549.99 / AU$989
The DJI Osmo 360 was announced on July 31 2025, and is available to order now from DJI’s own online store and various retailers.
At launch, it’s available in two different bundles. The Osmo 360 Standard Combo includes the Osmo 360 camera, a single Osmo Action Extreme Battery Plus, a protective pouch, a rubber lens cap, a lens cleaning cloth and a USB-C to USB-C cable, and is priced at £409.99 / AU$759.
The Osmo 360 Adventure Combo, meanwhile, comes with all of the above plus the Osmo Action Multifunctional Battery Case 2, a quick-release adapter mount and a 1.2m selfie stick. It costs £539.99 / AU$989.
The DJI Osmo Adventure Combo includes a plethora of useful accessories (Image credit: Future | Sam Kieldsen)
This is noteworthy pricing, because it’s a lot cheaper than the Insta360 X5, the camera it’s competing with. At launch the X5’s Standard bundle (which is just the camera and one battery) cost $549.99 / £519.99 / AU$929.99 and the Essentials bundle (including a selfie stick, charging case, second battery, fast charging case, lens guards, carry case and lens cap) cost $659.99 / £609.99 / AU$1,109.99. That’s quite a gap, and it doesn’t take into account the microSD card you’ll need for the X5 either.
You’ll have noticed that I haven’t mentioned US pricing, and that’s because it’s still TBC, likely as a result of the continuing uncertainty surrounding tariffs. A DJI spokesperson told me that the camera “will not be available for sale immediately in the U.S. market through official DJI channels. We currently do not have an estimated timeline for when it will be available, but we will keep you posted when we do.”
Price score: 5/5
DJI Osmo 360: Design
IP68 build and ability to operate in -20C / -4F temperatures
Includes tripod and magnetic quick-release mounts
Not recommended for underwater shooting
The DJI Osmo 360 resembles a cross between its 360 camera rivals the GoPro Max and Insta360 X5. It has the squat, square shape of the former and the control layout and centrally located fisheye lenses of the latter. Like both, it’s constructed from robust dark-grey plastic, with its lenses bulging outwards on either side.
There’s a 2-inch 16:9 touchscreen on one side, plus three physical controls: a power button (which can be tapped to toggle between shooting modes), a shutter button, and a third button that flips between the two camera views on the screen. There are also two openable flaps on the device, one covering the USB-C port (used for charging and data transfer) and the other protecting the removable battery and microSD card slot.
The bottom of the camera features a standard 1/4-inch tripod mounting point, as well as clips and a magnet for DJI’s proprietary quick-release mounting system. I like that it comes with two mounting options.
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(Image credit: Future | Sam Kieldsen)
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(Image credit: Future | Sam Kieldsen)
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(Image credit: Future | Sam Kieldsen)
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(Image credit: Future | Sam Kieldsen)
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To keep it safe when not in use, the Osmo 360 comes with both a soft carry case and a protective rubber lens cap. (Image credit: Future | Sam Kieldsen)
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(Image credit: Future | Sam Kieldsen)
The Osmo 360 is IP68-rated, waterproof to a depth of 10m and able to operate in temperatures as low as -20C / -4F. However, DJI cautions that, due to its convex optics, underwater shooting may result in “image distortion and stitching errors” and thus doesn’t recommend it. It’s interesting that DJI doesn’t have confidence in its underwater capabilities, because the Insta360 X5 has the same convex lenses and its manufacturer encourages sub-aqua shooting, including a special picture profile and corrections specifically for that purpose.
On the durability front, DJI doesn’t offer the same user-replaceable lenses as the Insta360 X5, which is a real shame – the way in which 360 camera lens extend out of the camera body means they’re easy to scratch, and Insta360’s efforts in this area have been really impressive. On the plus side, Osmo 360 users can at least buy an optional lens protector kit, or take out a DJI Care Refresh protection plan which includes a limited number of free replacement cameras in the event of accidental damage, for either one or two years. It’s priced at £23 / AU$42 for one year, or £38 / AU$69 for two years.
Design score: 4/5
DJI Osmo 360: Performance and features
AI-edited videos via DJI Mimo app
Battery life of up to 100 minutes with 8K 30fps recording
Directly compatible with DJI Mic 2 and Mic Mini
The Osmo 360 works with the existing DJI Mimo mobile app, which will pair your phone with the camera and allow you to remotely operate it, download and apply firmware updates, and browse your photos and videos. The app features a simple but effective video editor that makes creating slick reframed or panoramic clips using keyframes or AI-assisted subject tracking quick and easy.
The app has an AI-assisted auto editor that selects clips, framing angles, transitions and music to create a quick shareable ‘finished’ clip, much like the Insta360 app, but it’s not quite as impressive – at least not at the time of writing. For one thing, it’s currently suitable only for skiing, cycling and motorcycling videos filmed in the daytime, but I’d expect DJI to expand its capabilities and suitable subjects with future updates. I've embedded an example of what it can currently do below.
DJI has also, at the time of writing, just released DJI Studio, a free desktop app for macOS and Windows that allows for similar easy 360 video editing on your computer. After offloading the files, you can set keyframes, use AI-assisted tracking, add filters and music, and trim videos to your liking, before exporting them as a reframed standard video or a panoramic 360 video. I used it to put together a few clips on my MacBook, and found it straightforward and very easy to pick up.
The Osmo 360 uses the same 1950mAh Osmo Extreme Battery Plus that was launched with the DJI Osmo Action 5 Pro. Practicality-wise, that’s great news for people who own both cameras, but the Extreme Battery Plus is noticeably smaller than the 2400mAh capacity batteries that come with the Insta360 X5 and offer up to 185 minutes of use.
Battery life on the Osmo 360 is shorter as a result: I left the camera running at 8K 30fps and it recorded about 90 minutes of footage on a full battery. That’s not bad at all – it’s just not as good as the X5’s mammoth battery life – and Osmo Extreme Batteries support PD fast charging and are relatively cheap, too ($49 / £29 / AU$55), so stocking up on a few isn’t a huge investment.
The Osmo 360 is fully compatible with the DJI Mic Mini and Mic 2 (Image credit: Future | Sam Kieldsen)
There are four built-in mics on the camera, and audio quality is impressive in good conditions; I found that voices and environmental sounds were captured clearly. As with most built-in camera mics, however, it does pick up wind noise very easily, which can disrupt the clarity.
The Osmo 360 is also compatible with OsmoAudio products, meaning it can directly connect to a DJI Mic 2 or DJI Mic Mini transmitter for higher-quality audio. I used it with my Mic Mini and was able to record 24-bit audio, adjust and preview gain levels on the 360’s screen, and turn noise cancelling on and off, and thanks to the windshield and noise cancelling I was able to record crisp, clear voice audio even while riding my bike on a breezy day.
Performance score: 4/5
DJI Osmo 360: Image quality
Dual 1/1.1-inch sensors
Captures 10-bit 8K video at up to 50fps and 120MP photos
Dedicated low-light and single-lens modes
DJI has kitted out the Osmo 360 with a pair of square 1/1.1-inch sensors, which it claims outperform rivals due to the large pixel size of 2.4μm – that's roughly twice the size of the pixels used by the Insta360 X5. The sensor’s square shape, DJI says, is a key factor, because none of the surface area is wasted; other 360 cameras, built around rectangular sensors, use only the central portions of them, but the Osmo 360 makes use of every bit, allowing it to have those larger pixels and deliver much better image quality. At least, that’s the idea.
The Osmo 360 supports 360-degree video capture up to 8K 50fps (and 5K 60fps or 4K 120fps), and single-lens capture at up to 5K 60fps as well as photos up to 120MB (or 30MB with HDR). It also supports 10-bit color, and gives users the option to shoot in a flat D-Log M profile for more scope in post-production color grading.
I found image quality to be generally excellent for a 360 camera. At the default settings and shooting in bright daylight, 360 videos are sharp with rich, bright colors.
There’s clearly some enhancement going on, resulting in some noticeable over-sharpening and overly intense colors at times (skies can veer too much towards turquoise at times, for instance), but the settings available give users plenty of scope to adjust results to their personal tastes.
The lenses deal relatively well with flare, automatic selfie-stick removal is effective, and the image stabilization and horizon leveling seem nigh-on faultless to me.
Overall, I’m highly impressed, but I would also say that, if I had recently bought an Insta360 X5, I don’t see anything here that would cause me to regret my purchase. Comparing clips side by side, there’s very little between the two cameras when it comes to standard 360 video, despite DJI’s claims about the Osmo 360’s pixel size and sensor design greatly boosting quality.
Perhaps the highlight of the Osmo 360’s specialist video modes is SuperNight. Available with 360 capture only, it's designed to offer high-sensitivity, high-quality low-light recording indoors or at night, although while I was hoping those huge sensor pixels would give the Osmo 360 an edge over the Insta360 X5 after dark, my test footage looked fairly similar.
In other words, it's good by 360 camera standards, but not the kind of pristine, low-noise video I'd be happy using in pro-level content creation – not without a little help in post-processing, anyway. Sudden motion in particular can cause some distracting blur around bright light sources.
There’s also Boost (single-lens only), an ultra-wide-angle mode with high dynamic range, good low-light quality, and up to 120fps frame rate that seems designed to ape a classic action camera. It's definitely a useful mode to have if you're biking or using the Osmo 360 as a dashcam.
Image quality score: 5/5
DJI Osmo 360: testing scorecard
DJI Osmo 360
Attributes
Notes
Rating
Price
Significantly cheaper than the Insta360 X5, for similar spec and features.
5/5
Design
Freezeproof and waterproof, but the lack of replaceable lenses is a pity.
4/5
Performance
Decent apps and battery life, and compatibility with OsmoAudio products.
4/5
Image quality
Challenges the Insta360 X5 on image quality, but doesn't outright beat it despite having a larger sensor.
5/5
Should I buy the DJI Osmo 360?
Buy it if...
You want premium 360 video at the cheapest price Despite offering similar specs, features and performance to the Insta360 X5 (not to mention built-in storage), the Osmo 360 is significantly more affordable at launch.
You're already invested in the DJI product ecosystem If you own a DJI Mic 2 or Mic Mini, you can hook it up to the Osmo 360 to instantly up its sound-capture quality a few notches.
Don't buy it if...
You just bought an Insta360 X5 DJI has delivered a strong rival to the excellent Insta360 X5 – but not an outright conqueror. If you already own the X5, there are few reasons to swap it for an Osmo 360.
You want a truly rugged 360 camera The Osmo 360 is IP68-rated and pretty tough, but it's not as adventure-ready as the Insta360 X5 and its easy-to-replace lenses. If you scratch a lens here, you'll need to replace the whole camera.
Also consider
Insta360 X5
The current top dog of the small 360 camera market, the X5’s rugged build, replaceable lenses, low-light performance, ease of use, and battery life keep it ahead of the Osmo 360 – just about. Its biggest asset is how simple it makes the process of creating great-looking 360 videos, but the Osmo 360 runs it very close.
At around half the price of the Osmo 360, budget action camera brand Akaso’s first 360 camera represents real value for money. While it’s short on fancy features, the 360’s automatic stitching and stabilization is impressive, and video quality is more than adequate when shooting outdoors in good lighting.
I mounted the camera on an invisible selfie stick and bike mount
I recorded videos day and night on foot and cycling
DJI sent me a review sample of the Osmo 360 Adventure Combo well ahead of its release date, giving me plenty of time to test the camera’s panoramic and single-lens modes in a variety of situations: day, night, indoors and outdoors, on foot and while riding my bike. I was able to test it with DJI’s own invisible selfie stick and Mic Mini, as well as edit videos using the DJI Mimo mobile app and new DJI Studio desktop app.
Torrenting clients give users access to a deluge of content. Unsurprisingly, one of the most popular free torrent clients is aptly named Deluge. It’s a free and open-source torrenting client that’s a favorite for many.
I decided to test Deluge to see whether it’s better than other clients I’ve used. My test centered on its features, performance, user-friendliness, and security, among other crucial factors. Read on to learn my opinion about choosing Deluge as a torrenting client.
Deluge: Versions
Extensive PC compatibility is one of the first things that stood out about Deluge. Its official downloads page listed apps for macOS, Windows, and various Linux distributions like Ubuntu, Debian, and Fedora.
However, I was disappointed that Deluge lacked an Android app. Many free and open-source software tools have Android apps, which I cherish using to control downloads remotely on my PC. Given Apple's unfriendliness to torrenting apps, I didn’t expect an iOS app. No torrenting app I’ve reviewed is directly compatible with iOS.
Deluge: Features
Deluge might not be as popular as rival torrenting clients like Vuze, but it packs many features that give it a competitive edge. I liked that Deluge can be easily customized with plugins that provide extra functionalities. For instance, I used the Notifications plugin to get notified via email about completed downloads.
Like most torrent clients, Deluge lets you add a .torrent file and download the corresponding content. This file contains the metadata of the movie, audio, software package, or any other content you want to download. When added to Deluge, it extracts the metadata and downloads the required content.
Unlike some torrenting clients I’ve tested, Deluge doesn’t offer a built-in way to find .torrent files. Instead, you’ll get them yourself from external sources. Some torrenting clients have built-in search engines to make finding these torrents easier, but not Deluge.
If you don’t have the torrent file for the content you want to download, you can provide a magnet link or an info hash. Both contain the same metadata as a .torrent file, so Deluge can still extract the data and download the corresponding content.
Deluge is ad-free, a feature I appreciate after testing some torrenting clients. Some free clients had ads covering large parts of my screen, often for dodgy products. However, despite being free, Deluge doesn’t include ads for monetization. It’s an open-source tool maintained by a team of volunteer developers.
(Image credit: Future)
One major benefit of using Deluge as a torrenting client is its sophisticated encryption software. It uses techniques like Protocol Encryption and Message Stream Encryption to prevent unauthorized third parties from spying on your torrenting activities.
For further security, I turned on a VPN before downloading torrents via Deluge, and you should, too. A VPN routes your traffic through a secure remote server, preventing your ISP and other third-parties from monitoring your downloads. People often run into issues with their ISPs because of torrenting, so a VPN is crucial for protecting yourself.
I liked that Deluge provided both a graphical and command-line interface. The graphical interface is the easiest to use, with a minimalistic feel and neatly arranged elements. Yet, I sometimes enjoy feeling like a nerd and using the command-line interface to control my torrenting activities.
The command line lets users connect with Deluge remotely. Normally, I use Android apps for remote connections, but Deluge doesn’t have this feature. I got some solace because I could control my Deluge torrenting activities from another PC. For example, you can be at work and controlling torrenting activities on your home PC. This way, you avoid any issues concerning torrenting on your office network.
When you download any torrent on Deluge, you automatically become a seeder uploading the same torrent for other users. Torrenting is made possible by users acting as file seeders for each other. The more seeders available for a torrent, the faster the download speed.
The thought of constantly uploading files made me wary of my bandwidth consumption, but then I remembered that most torrenting clients let users limit file upload speeds to conserve bandwidth. Deluge makes this process easy, allowing users to limit their upload speeds and the number of simultaneous connections.
Deluge is a feature-rich torrenting client I enjoyed using. It doesn’t have every feature I wanted, but having its existing features for free is a boon.
(Image credit: Deluge)
Deluge: Interface and in-use
With my experience testing numerous torrenting clients, I can attest that Deluge has one of the best user interfaces. It’s not overtly modern, like some torrenting clients that feel overdesigned, and it’s also not too old school, like some torrenting clients that looked designed in the 1990s.
Deluge’s interface strikes the right balance between form and function. You can access it via a graphical interface, command line, or web interface. The web and graphical interfaces look very similar. The command line interface can get complicated, but it’s meant for technically adept users who prefer that mode. An average person can quickly become familiar with graphical or web interfaces.
Deluge: Security
Deluge has the standard encryption features of torrenting clients. It encrypts your activities to prevent unauthorized access, but relying on your torrenting client’s security is enough. I always turn on a VPN to provide an extra security layer when downloading torrents.
I ran Deluge through software scanning tools, and the results were clean. Deluge isn’t known to host malware and hasn’t had any history of negligent security practices. My only issue is that Deluge lacks a built-in anti-virus scanning tool for torrents. I had to rely on another tool to scan torrents for malware, unlike some torrenting clients with built-in scanners.
Deluge: Final verdict
I appreciate Deluge’s user-friendliness, feature richness, and the ability to add plugins for more functionalities. It’s a lightweight app that’s easy to use on any PC, and I’ll recommend it to anyone seeking a reliable torrenting client.
Sometimes when testing some of the best earbuds (and sets that don't make it into that group), it feels like products can easily be broken down into three categories: buds trying to rival AirPods, buds trying to rival the AirPods Pro, and buds which are clearly doing their own thing. The Denon AH-C840NCW can easily be filed into the middle category.
These are the siblings to the Denon AH-C500W, buds listed straight in the former category, but the set you're reading about here come with a key difference: these buds come with silicon ear tips, and noise cancellation to boot. That’s what gets them bumped from the first category to the second.
Denon is a high-end audio company based in Japan that has made a respectable name for itself with home audio, AV systems and speakers, and while it’s also no stranger to personal audio (like headphones and earbuds – see also the PerL Pro), this clearly also isn’t its bread-and-butter diet. Case in point: the AH-C840NCW are perfectly fine earbuds that certainly are a viable option given Apple’s expensive earbuds… but they don’t quite match all the other AirPods Pro alternatives on the market.
The Denon AH-C840NCW hark a lot closer to Apple’s options than most rivals, and that’s most obvious in the design department. There’s no denying that these are doppelgangers – Denongangers if you will – and there’s nothing wrong with that. Denon has aped the well-respected build and these lightweight buds are easy on the ear, even if the tips let the side down a bit.
In audio quality too, these buds are inoffensive. The audio mix is fairly neutral-sounding, skewing slightly towards bass but otherwise offering an easy-to-like (though hard to truly love) quality to songs.
So far, so AirPods Pro, and that isn’t necessarily a flaw – the buds undercut Apple’s premium buds by a meaty margin. But Denon isn’t the only company trying to offer prospective earbuds buyers a Pro option on a non-Pro budget, with so many alternatives at this price point that my word count forbids me from listing even a fraction of them.
It’s the feature set that lets the AH-C840NCW down. Despite some impressive active noise cancellation there’s an overall dearth of extra functionality, and a few stumbles within what’s actually there. This is the area that most often than not defines the best earbuds you can buy, and so I struggle to find a unique selling point for the Denon.
I generally enjoyed listening to the Denon AH-C840NCW during my testing, but that’s not the same as recommending them to buy with your own money. Their myriad rivals typically have a lot more to offer, so they’re only worth buying if you’re looking for buds that match the AirPods Pro exactly, instead of beating them in any way.
Denon AH-C840NCW review: Price and release date
(Image credit: Future)
Unveiled and released in April 2025
Costs £149 (roughly $200, AU$300)
The Denon AH-C840NCW were announced in released in April, alongside the AH-C500W which are similar but slightly cheaper and miss ANC.
You can buy the AH-C840NCW for £149 (around $200, AU$300) so they’re mid-ranged in price. I couldn’t find them on sale in Australia or the US, but Denon does offer earbuds in those countries (especially in the US, which saw the AH-C500W and AH-C830NCW) so a launch in those regions is possible.
Judging at least by the UK price, that’s about an 8% price hike on the last-gen model but a 50% higher price than the non-ANC siblings.
I have to point out that, writing three months after the buds’ release, it’s pretty easy to find them discounted. Not by a huge amount, but by 10%-15% depending on which color you want, which is still worth bearing in mind.
Denon AH-C840NCW review: Specs
Drivers
12mm
Active noise cancellation
Yes
Battery life (ANC off)
10 hours (buds) 35 hours (case)
Weight
5.1g (buds) 54g (case)
Connectivity
Bluetooth 5.3
Waterproofing
IPX4
Denon AH-C840NCW review: Features
(Image credit: Future)
Solid noise cancellation
7-hour battery life with ANC on
Relative lack of extra features
Unlike their siblings, the Denon AH-C840NCW offer ANC, which I think is what the ‘NC’ in the name refers to. I wasn’t expecting much – why would the company skip ANC on that other product if it had anything worthwhile up its sleeves – but was pleasantly surprised by what this model offered.
The AH-C840NCW’s noise cancellation is meaty, wiping out annoying background noises without a trace. The app also offers you a Transparency mode which seemed to work slightly differently from others: instead of scanning for important noises to filter in to your ears (such as voices and important, twig-snapping-in-the-woods treble sounds), I got the impression it was just a weaker ANC. I could be wrong about this, but things felt quieter in Denon’s Transparency mode than in equivalents I’ve tested.
Talking about the app, it’s simply called 'Headphones', but you can find it in the Play Store or App Store by searching Denon’s name. As well as changing ANC modes, it lets you customize the touch controls, monitor the buds’ connections (multi-point pairing allows for two concurrent pairs), turn on LE Audio, change the wear detect to only apply for one earbud and monitor battery levels.
Finally, there’s an equalizer, which is only a 5-band one and doesn’t offer presets. If you’re used to customizing your own earbuds' sound, you might find this one just a little restrictive.
Battery life hits 7 hours with ANC turned on or 10 hours with it off, figures which can go up to 24 or 35 respectively when you factor in the case. The battery life is ever so slightly above average and my own testing roughly matched Denon’s stats provided.
This might be one of the shortest ‘Features’ sections I’ve ever written in a review, because the Denon don’t offer much in the way of useful features beyond the basics. That’s a shame because it’s in the feature set that (headphone) boys become (headphone) men, and with rivals offering plenty of extra modes and functions, it affects the competitiveness of the AH-C840NCW.
Features score: 3.5/5
Denon AH-C840NCW review: Design
(Image credit: Future)
Small pebble carry case
AirPods Pro lookalikes
Sensitive touch controls
By referring to the Denon AH-C840NCW as ‘AirPods Pro lookalikes’, I’ve probably conjured certain images of stem-toting earbuds with silicon tips and slight tilts. This description doesn’t necessarily denote AirPods – the world of wireless earbuds is much more varied than that, with buds of different shapes and sizes – but in this case it’s totally right. You’ve seen the pictures, you knew where this sentence was going.
The buds weigh 5.1g so they’re nice and light, and as that description suggests, they’re made up fo a stem that says ‘Denon’, a round body and a tip which protrudes at a slight angle. You can buy the buds in black or white (which also applies to the case) but the design is identical.
Hidden somewhere is a touch control, which you can customize in the app to change volume, play or pause music, and so on. I say ‘somewhere’ because I never quite figured out where to tap to trigger it – usually tapping the top of the stem worked but occasionally I’d accidentally press it while readjusting the buds in my ear, when my fingers were nowhere near the top.
On that topic, I did have to readjust the buds quite frequently in my ear; never when sitting around at home, but when running with the buds (ill advised; these aren’t running earbuds), when walking with them, or when working out at the gym (sit ups is the ultimate fit test!). I even tested different tip sizes in the box (there are four, not counting the ones on the buds by default) and this didn’t help – I’m going to point the finger at the material used in the tip, for not offering enough friction.
If you’re not going on walks and constantly having to readjust the earbuds, they’re pleasant to wear, with the light build ensuring you never get earache from long periods of listening. The buds also have an IPX4 rating which protects them from splashes of water, but not a serious drenching.
Equally lightweight and portable is the AH-C840NCW’s case, which is nice and small at 58 x 21.3 x 25.4mm and light at 54g. Something bijou like this is easy to slip into trouser pockets without it bulging out, or hide it on your desk when you’re charging it up via its USB-C port.
Design score: 3.5/5
Denon AH-C840NCW review: Sound quality
Single 12mm driver
Ever-so-slightly warm audio profile
Max volume is too low
(Image credit: Future)
Denon has fit the AH-C840NCW with a 12mm driver. That’s the same piece of kit that its sibling saw but with the eartips ensuring surrounding sound doesn’t leak in, the buds sound a lot better.
The AH-C840NCW have a gently warm sound profile that emphasizes bass just a little, but it's so slight that it won’t put off people who prefer a more neutral sound. Bass is scooping and well-defined, but treble is also is also crystal-clear and sharp.
I’d have liked to see a more pronounced, expansive and layered soundstage, as the buds seemed to lose instruments and harmonies that weren’t prominent, but they’re fairly detailed where it counts in vocals, drums and keys.
The maximum volume isn’t too high though. It’s fine for everyday listening when you’re at home or in an office, but if I wanted to hear music well over traffic, or get some extra oomph for an energetic song on a run, I found myself continually pressing my phone’s volume up button – and it didn't really help.
Sound quality: 4/5
Denon AH-C840NCW review: Value
(Image credit: Future)
Decent value compared to AirPods...
...not so much compared to other rivals
Compared to the Apple AirPods Pro, I’m willing to say that the Denon AH-C840NCW offer decent value for money. They undercut the big name buds without cutting down on the quality too much.
However, when you consider some of the other options on the market at this price, you realize you could still be getting a lot more for your money. Rivals within a similar $/£/AU$ range offer hardier designs, wider feature sets or better audio quality, and usually a combination of all three.
Value: 3.5/5
Should I buy the Denon AH-C840NCW?
(Image credit: Future)
Denon AH-C840NCW score card
Attributes
Notes
Rating
Features
Above-average ANC and slightly above-average battery life compensate for a basic feature set.
3.5/5
Design
They're light but not wholly reliable in the ear.
3.5/5
Sound quality
Music sounds detailed and a tad warm but it's still not perfect, and lacks energy.
4/5
Value
They don't pull in front of rivals enough to offer a genuine value proposition.
3.5/5
Buy them if…
You want AirPods-similar design If you’ve seen the AirPods and want a similar-looking pair of earbuds, these certainly are options, as they’re some of the closest Doppelgangers we’ve seen so far.
You need decent noise cancellation While it’s not the tippy-top bubble-of-silence performance I’ve ever heard, the active noise cancellation offered by the AH-C840NCW is robust, removing all but the most persistent background sounds.
You need a slender carry case Some earbuds carry cases can sit in your pocket like a boulder. Denon wouldn’t be seen with anything like that, though, and the AH-C840NCW’s holder is lovely and slender.View Deal
Don’t buy them if…
You like customizing your audio While the Denon does have a 5-band equalizer, that’s not much control over your music for audiophiles. There aren’t any presets, and no option for toggling higher-resolution audio should you want to stream it.
You rely on transparency mode If you like toggling this and thus hearing what’s going on around you, I wouldn’t recommend the Denons. The transparency mode here sounded to me like weaker noise cancellation (yes, odd), and doesn’t let in much surrounding sound.
You’re sporty Some eartip-toting buds are reliable for gym workouts, cycling or running. Not the Denon, as I found they’d slip out of my ears even on walks.View Deal
Denon AH-C840NCW review: Also consider
Denon AH-C840NCW
OnePlus Buds 4
Skullcandy Method 360
Nothing Ear
Drivers
12mm
11mm woofer + 6mm tweeter
12mm
11mm
Active noise cancellation
Yes
Yes
Yes
Yes
Battery life
10 hours (buds) 35 hours (case)
11 hours (buds); 45 hours (case)
11 hours (earbuds), 29 hours (total)
5.2 hours (buds) 24 hours (case)
Weight
5.1g (buds) 54g (case)
4.73g (buds); 40g (case)
11g (buds) 77g (case)
4.62g (buds) 51.9g (case)
Connectivity
Bluetooth 5.3
Bluetooth 5.4
Bluetooth 5.3
Bluetooth 5.3
Waterproofing
IPX4
IP55
IPX4
IP54
OnePlus Buds 4
A very recent competitor, the OnePlus Buds 4 have the best noise cancellation I’ve tested in earbuds at this price point. They sell at the same price as the Denon and offer a much more bass-heavy sound profile.
Another bassy option is the Skullcandy Method 360. Ignore the ludicrous case size; these have solid in-ear design, a fun and funky sound profile and a long-lasting battery. Again, these go for roughly the same price as the Denon. Our review is incoming…
Nothing Ear
Finally – and yes, for the same price as the AH-C840NCW, although they’re a bit older and more prone to price cuts – we’ve got Nothing’s most recent top-end earbuds. These have a really impressive feature set and I loved the sound profile, but be warned for an awful battery life.
Tested at home, in the office, working out and on walks
My testing period for the AH-C840NCW earbuds was two weeks long, and it came straight after I wrote the Denon AH-C500W review, so I got to test the siblings back-to-back.
I paired the Denon with my Android smartphone for the whole testing period and tested apps like Spotify, YouTube, Netflix and certain games. Testing was done at home, around my neighborhood (on runs and on walks), on public transport, at my office and at the gym.
I've been reviewing audio products for TechRadar for years now, including products made by many of Denon's rivals and all three competitors mentioned above.
The Acer Predator Helios 18 AI is a top-tier gaming laptop with a phenomenal spec that’s sure to whet the appetites of even casual gamers. Despite what lurks inside, its exterior is remarkably restrained. At 18 inches, it's obviously very large, but the black finish and lack of branding keep its profile reasonably low. However, that large rear protrusion and ostentatious RGB lighting give away its intentions.
I think Acer has done well to keep the Predator Helios 18 AI as slender as possible. Of course, this is all relative given the size of laptop we’re dealing with here, but it’s impressively thin for the most part, although it thickens at the rear.
Build quality is also excellent, equaling the best gaming laptops in this regard. Premium materials are employed everywhere, and the hinge for the lid is smooth and easy to operate, while offering plenty of stability once set.
The keyboard is tactile and snappy, and the generous spacing of the keys makes it easy to type and game on the Predator Helios 18 AI. The number pad somewhat compromises the layout, though, with the space bar paying the highest price; it’s a little too short for my liking.
On the other hand, the large trackpad does a fine job of not interfering while using the keyboard, with accidental contact failing to register in my experience. It’s also very smooth and accurate, should you wish to use it over one of the best gaming mice.
Considering its mighty spec, the Predator Helios 18 AI performs as well as you might expect. Cyberpunk 2077 and Doom: The Dark Ages ran with aplomb, each delivering fps figures in the hundreds with maximum graphics settings, including those for ray tracing.
(Image credit: Future)
You will have to endure constant fan noise when gaming, but thankfully this isn’t egregious when the default Balanced mode is selected in the Predator Sense app. The Predator Helios 18 AI also generates a fair amount of heat, which can spread to the sides and the keyboard after a while. Again, though, this isn’t bad enough to cause an issue.
The biggest price you’ll have to pay for all this performance is… well, the price. Starting at $3,000, the Predator Helios 18 AI is incredibly expensive. I struggle to think who’ll need such a large and powerful laptop, and be willing to pay this much for one.
Of course, the entire gaming laptop market is a premium one, but there are better value alternatives out there if you don’t need an 18-inch display and triple-digit frame rates, such as the excellent Razer Blade 16 (2025) or the MSI Katana 15 (2023), the latter of which we think is currently the best budget gaming laptop around.
Acer Predator Helios 18 AI review: Price & Availability
Starts from $2,999.99 / £3,499.99 / AU$7,299
Hugely expensive
Better value alternatives
The Predator Helios 18 AI starts from $2,999.99 / £3,499.99 / AU$7,299 and is available now. It comes with spare WASD and arrow keys, as well as a thermal pad upgrade kit for the RAM.
You don’t need me to tell you what an eye-watering sum this is. It’s understandable considering the spec, and my review unit was even more outlandish, equipped with a 3840 x 2400 display and 192GB of RAM(!).
Prices are similar to the Razer Blade, which performs similarly too. If you want something that’s even better value, the MSI Katana 15 (2023) is, in our view, one of the best budget gaming laptops around, if you’re happy to game at 1080p.
Value: 2.5 / 5
Acer Predator Helios 18 AI review: Specs
Acer Predator Helios 18 AI Specs
Acer Predator Helios 18 AI Base Config
Acer Predator Helios 18 AI Review Config
Price
$2,999.99 / £3,499.99 / AU$7299
TBC
CPU
Intel Core Ultra 9 275HX (24 Cores), 2.70 GHz
Intel Core Ultra 9 275HX (24 Cores), 2.70 GHz
GPU
Nvidia GeForce RTX 5080 (16GB)
Nvidia GeForce RTX 5090 (24GB)
RAM
64GB DDR5
192GB DDR5
Storage
2TB PCIe NVMe SED SSD
2TB PCIe NVMe SED SSD
Display
18-inch WQXGA (2560 x 1600), 16:10 ComfyView (Matte), 250Hz, IPS
18-inch WQUXGA (3840 x 2400), 16:10 ComfyView (Matte), 250Hz, IPS
Ports and Connectivity
3 x USB-A, 2 x USB-C, 1 x RJ-45, 1 x SD card, 1 x HDMI, 1 x 3.5mm audio in/out; Wi-Fi 7, Bluetooth 5.4
3 x USB-A, 2 x USB-C, 1 x RJ-45, 1 x SD card, 1 x HDMI, 1 x 3.5mm audio in/out; Wi-Fi 7, Bluetooth 5.4
Battery
99Wh
99Wh
Dimensions
401 x 308 x 29.6mm
401 x 308 x 29.6mm
Weight
3.5kg / 7.7lbs
3.5kg / 7.7lbs
Acer Predator Helios 18 AI review: Design
(Image credit: Future)
Large but surprisingly thin
Relatively understated
Excellent build quality
Given its large display size, the Predator Helios 18 AI is a reasonably understated gaming laptop. The rear bulge that extends beyond the lid hinge gives it some distinction, and the RGB lighting can light up the whole unit like a Christmas tree if you want it to (the bar that runs along the front edge and wraps around the side is especially striking). But switch this off and you’ll struggle to tell it apart from the best business laptops.
It’s quite bulky, although I think the Predator Helios 18 AI does an admirable job of keeping its dimensions contained considering the beastly components that lay within. The front end is reasonably thin, but thickens as it moves towards the back. This increased size does allow for larger vent openings, though, so it’s a worthy sacrifice to improve cooling performance.
The overall build quality is hard to fault. All the materials that are used look and feel premium and durable. The lid is also impressively smooth to operate yet remains sufficiently stable when set in position.
Underneath you’ll find three feet that run across the width of the Predator Helios 18 AI, and they provide plenty of grip on desktop surfaces. They also raise the chassis from the surface by a significant degree, again allowing for improved ventilation.
There are plenty of ports on the Predator Helios 18 AI. On the left, you’ll find an ethernet and a USB-A port, as well as an SD card slot and a 3.5mm audio in/ out jack. On the right are two more USB-A ports, which is a sensible location considering this is where you’ll likely be connecting external peripherals.
On the rear are two USB-C ports, an HDMI port, and a large power cable port. As you would imagine, the power supply is large, but unfortunately the cable running from the brick to the jack end is quite short. Owing to my setup, this meant I had to keep the brick on my desk rather than placing it on the floor, which was quite the inconvenience.
Design: 4/ 5
Acer Predator Helios 18 AI review: Performance
(Image credit: Future)
Fantastic AAA performance
Vibrant and sharp display
Some fan noise and heat
Gaming with the Predator Helios 18 AI didn’t get off to a particularly auspicious start. When I ran Cyberpunk 2077 for the first time, the game’s benchmark function recorded a disappointing 42fps, with the maximum 3840 x 2400 resolution and Ray Tracing: Ultra preset selected.
Some tinkering with the graphics settings resulted in modest improvements to performance, but it wasn’t until after restarting the game a couple of times that things suddenly improved: I started getting about 100fps, even in busy in-game environments, without lowering the resolution or any other graphical settings.
Similar figures were achieved when I played Doom: The Dark Ages, although I did have to change the DLSS mode from Auto to Ultra Performance to get there. Thankfully, this made no discernible difference to the image quality.
And on that front, both games looked fantastic on the WQUXGA display. Colors were accurate and vibrant, if very slightly washed-out. This is a common issue on many IPS displays, but here the effect did little to detract from the awesomeness of the visuals.
The ultra-high 3840 x 2400 resolution in my review unit offered incredible levels of sharpness, while the high response times resulted in super-smooth gameplay. It’s also capable of very high brightness levels, which helps to keep pesky reflections at bay.
(Image credit: Future)
Acer Predator Helios 18 AI Benchmarks
Here's how the Acer Predator Helios 18 AI performed in our series of benchmark tests:
Geekbench 6.2: Single - 2,803 Multi - 16,720 Cinebench R24: Single - 125 13.89x Multi - 1,728 3DMark: Fire Strike - 36,158 Time Spy - 17,341 Port Royal - 12,994 Night Raid - 60,951 PCMark10: 8,885 Cyberpunk 2077: 1080p Low - 469fps 1080p Ultra - 361fps 1080p Ray Tracing: Overdrive - 128fps Battery test: Movie playback - 3 hours and 2 minutes PCMark10 (Gaming) - 1 hour 27 minutes
Fan noise is constant when gaming on the Predator Helios 18 AI, but I didn’t find it distractingly loud. The volume increases considerably if you set the Predator Sense profile to Performance mode, though – then you’ll really need one of the best PC gaming headsets to drown out the noise.
The Predator Helios 18 AI does a good job of keeping temperatures down. Its underside doesn’t get too hot, although over time heat leaks out of both sides, which can be a little distracting for your mouse hand. After a couple of hours of gaming, I noticed the bottom of the keyboard became quite hot, too, especially around the space bar.
It wasn’t hot enough to make using the keyboard a problem, though. And what’s more, the keyboard on the Predator Helios 18 AI is great to game with. The keys are clicky but damped enough to make them tactile.
They’re a little on the small side (although they’re generously spaced apart), owing to the inclusion of the aforementioned number pad. This compromises the layout somewhat – especially the space bar, which isn’t as long as I would’ve liked, and therefore somewhat awkward to hit with my left thumb.
The trackpad on the Predator Helios 18 AI is large and very smooth, making it easy to use. Mercifully, it also appears unaffected by contact with the sides of your palms, meaning it won’t accidentally register movements while your hands lean over it to use the keyboard.
Performance: 5 / 5
Acer Predator Helios 18 AI review: Battery Life
(Image credit: Future)
Large 99Wh capacity
Underwhelming longevity
Quick to charge
The battery life of the Predator Helios 18 AI isn't particularly impressive. Despite its 99Wh capacity, it lasted just under 90 minutes PCMark10's battery test for gaming scenarios.
This makes it considerably worse than the Razer Blade 16 (2025), which managed about an hour more, but much better than the MSI Katana 15 (2023), which didn’t even last one hour.
Charging the Predator Helios 18 AI back up to full is a surprisingly quick process, though – and given the size of the power brick, you would hope it would be.
Battery Life: 3.5 / 5
Should I buy the Predator Helios 18 AI?
Acer Predator Helios 18 AI Scorecard
Attributes
Notes
Rating
Value
The Predator Helios 18 AI is incredibly expensive, and only worth it if you need the absolute best gaming performance in laptop form.
2.5 / 5
Design
The Predator Helios 18 AI is very large, but is admirably thin considering what’s inside. It’s brilliantly made, too, and the RGB lighting is tastefully vibrant.
4 / 5
Performance
My review unit had an RTX 5090 and an Intel Core Ultra 9, so naturally its performance is out of this world. The display is excellent, too.
5 / 5
Battery Life
The Predator Helios 18 AI can't last an especially long time, but at least it's capable of replenishing quickly.
3.5 / 5
Total
There’s no denying this is a ferocious gaming machine; you can’t really ask for more from a gaming laptop. But the astronomical price puts it beyond the reach of many gamers, and there are many better value propositions out there.
3.5 / 5
Buy it if...
You want the best portable performance With Nvidia RTX 5000 series GPUs available, the Predator Helios 18 AI can achieve astonishing fps figures, while the CPU and configurable RAM are equally capable components.
You want a large display At 18 inches, the screen is more than big enough for laptop gaming, and renders AAA titles in all their glory.
Don't buy it if...
You want to save money You’ll need plenty of cash to buy even the base model, and there are better value options out there.
You want a truly portable device You’ll want something much smaller and lighter than the Acer Predator Helios 18 AI if you’re constantly on the go.
Acer Predator Helios 18 AI review: Also Consider
Razer Blade 16 (2025) We were already big fans of the Razer Blade 14 from 2024, but the Blade 16 (2025) surpasses it in many ways. Like the Predator Helios 18 AI, it too can be equipped with an RTX 5090, and is built to a similarly high standard. It’s a shame there’s no 4K option this time round, though, and it’s still about as expensive as the Predator Helios 18 AI. Read our full Razer Blade 16 (2025) review.
MSI Katana 15 (2023) Our current pick as the best gaming laptop for those on a budget, the MSI Katana 15 (2023) gets the balance right between price and performance, impressing us with its 1080p gaming. The trackpad and battery life might be weak points, but these are areas in gaming laptops where we’re willing to forgive shortcomings. As your first foray into the sector, it’s a great place to start. Read our full MSI Katana 15 (2023) review.
How I tested the Predator Helios 18 AI
Tested for a few days
Played AAA games
Extensive PC gaming experience
I tested the Predator Helios 18 AI for a few days, during which time I played games such as Cyberpunk 2077 and Doom: The Dark Ages, both AAA titles that provide stern tests for rigs owing to their demanding, cutting-edge graphics.
I also ran TechRadar’s series of benchmarking tests, including a battery test where I played a movie on a continuous loop until the Predator Helios 18 AI shut down.
I have been PC gaming for over a decade, and during that time I have experienced a number of systems and components. I have also reviewed laptops previously, as well as copious amounts of gaming hardware.
If you enjoy diverse content like me, torrenting is an easy way to access it. It involves exchanging files via the BitTorrent protocol and can be done via torrent clients. I’ve embarked on a mission to test many torrenting clients to help users choose the best ones. Today, I’m focusing on qBittorrent, a prominent app in the torrenting community.
qBittorrent is a free and open source torrent client, and compatible with the most popular desktop operating systems. I tested it extensively to provide an honest opinion. Read on to learn about its features, user-friendliness, security, and other vital factors.
qBittorrent: Versions
qBittorrent is compatible with the three most popular PC operating systems; Windows, macOS, and Linux. I use a macOS PC and easily downloaded qBittorrent from the official website. You can also do this for the Windows and Linux versions.
However, I noticed that qBittorrent does not have an Android app. I like torrenting clients with Android apps that let me control my PC’s torrenting activities from a smartphone.
I didn’t expect iOS compatibility, as Apple famously doesn’t allow torrenting apps to appear in its App Store.
(Image credit: Future)
qBittorrent: Features
qBittorrent has the typical features of a torrenting app. To download content, I needed to get the .torrent file from an external source. This file contains the metadata of the relevant content to be downloaded, and qBittorrent reads the information to kickstart the download.
If you don’t have the .torrent file, you can provide the magnet link for the relevant content. A magnet link is a hyperlink containing the same metadata as the .torrent file. I pasted multiple links into qBittorrent, and it downloaded the required content without hassle.
I also downloaded content via RSS feeds. This feature lets users subscribe to a specific RSS feed and automatically download new torrents added to the feed. For example, if you subscribe to an RSS feed of your favorite series, you can automatically download all new episodes.
I like that qBittorrent allows plugins that provide extra functionality. My favorite is the search plugin that lets you find torrent files within the app. Instead of spending time discovering and downloading these .torrent files on external websites, I did that directly on qBittorrent, enabling much faster downloads.
There’s no single search plugin for qBittorrent. Instead, the app is compatible with numerous unofficial plugins built for torrenting clients. Installing a search plugin was a noticeably simple process.
(Image credit: Future)
Torrenting works when users exchange files via the BitTorrent communications protocol. When you download specific content on qBittorrent, you automatically become a seeder uploading that content for other users to download. This process of simultaneous downloads and uploads enables users to freely access content via qBittorrent and other torrenting clients.
Whenever I use a torrenting client, I always seek to limit my upload speeds to conserve bandwidth. qBittorrent makes this easy. You can limit the upload speed to any level you’re comfortable with, ensuring you upload files for other users without consuming excessive bandwidth.
I appreciated that qBittorrent gave me significant control over my torrenting activities. For instance, I could queue torrents and prioritize specific downloads over others. I could also select specific files within a torrent instead of downloading the whole package. For example, this feature comes in handy if you have a software package missing a few crucial files. You can download just the missing parts instead of re-downloading the software package and wasting bandwidth.
This torrenting client supports IP filtering for security purposes. Users can upload blocklists and prevent any IP on that list from sharing files with their PC. This feature protects you from interacting with malicious actors sharing malware via torrenting clients.
Before downloading torrents, I always turn on a VPN for further security. A VPN routes your traffic through a secure remote server, preventing your ISP and other third-parties from monitoring your torrenting activities. I advise everyone to always use a VPN when torrenting.
My main complaint is that qBittorrent does not have an Android app that allows me to remotely control my torrenting activities. However, I was pleased that its remote control feature is available via a web interface.
The remote web interface is very similar to qBittorrent’s regular interface. You can use it to control your torrenting activities from another PC or smartphone, e.g., starting and pausing downloads on your home PC while at work. However, setting it up was complex, unlike Android apps where it’s usually straightforward.
qBittorrent: Interface and in-use
qBittorrent has a minimalistic interface that I enjoyed using. It’s not overtly modern yet not outdated. Features are arranged neatly on the left, configurations are accessible at the top, and the main dashboard lies on the right. Each feature incorporates a relevant icon that defines their functions. This uncluttered arrangement makes it easy to find any feature and tweak your desired configurations.
qBittorrent: Security
As mentioned, qBittorrent allowed me to block specific IP addresses from interacting with my device. This security feature is crucial because torrents are a common vector for introducing malware into unsuspecting devices.
qBittorrent has no ads and no history of negligent security practices. It’s a free tool maintained by volunteer developers, so there’s little incentive to sneak in adware for commercial purposes, which a handful of torrenting clients are guilty of.
Despite its standard encryption and other security features, I reiterate my advice to always turn on a VPN before using qBittorrent.
qBittorrent: Final verdict
qBittorrent is a free, user-friendly torrenting client I genuinely enjoy using. It’s not as feature-rich as some clients I’ve tested, but it performs its functions well. It’s an ideal torrenting tool for anyone seeking easy access to digital content.
Like the very best in the latest tranche of self-guided robot lawn mowers, the Anthbot Genie requires no perimeter wires and no professionals to install it. Simply take it out of its box, set up its charging station and RTK receiver in a suitable spot and set it off on its way.
There are three versions to choose from, with different battery capacities making them suited to different lawn size. The Genie 600 is designed for lawns up to 0.22 acres / 900m², the Genie 1000 is for up to 0.49 acres / 2000m² and the Genie 3000 is for up to 0.89 acres / 3600m². For this review, I tested the 3000.
Although the Genie's 7.9 inch / 20cm cutting width isn't the widest on the market – that accolade goes to the five-star Mammotion LUBA 2 – what it lacks in size it makes up for in accuracy. Thanks to RTK-GPS and its AI-empowered 3D four-camera recognition technology, the Genie cuts in straight lines and navigates neatly around edges without the typical zig-zag chaos of older robot mowers. It's a sterling obstacle avoider, too.
However, its success may depend on the RTK receiver having a good line of sight to a range of satellites in the sky, and to that end it's a bit of a shame that a wall-mounting kit (to place the receiver above the tree-line) is an added extra rather than being included as standard. That said, positioning mine in the lawn next to the charge station – the only setup possible with the included equipment – worked just fine to me, even with a fair amount of tree coverage.
Like the vast majority of robot mowers, the Genie doesn't have a grass collector. Instead, its five-blade cutting disk snips off millimeters at a time, leaving the nitrogen-rich cuttings to fertilize the lawn. Its motorized cutting deck is easily adjustable in the app and lets you fine-tune your grass from a crisp trim to a lush, longer look.
If you're in the market for an easy-to-use robot that's reliable and easy to operate, you've found it. Read on for my full Anthbot Genie robot lawn mower review.
(Image credit: Future)
Anthbot Genie review: price & availability
List price: $999 to $1,359 / £999 to £1,699
Launch date: Spring 2025
Available: US and UK
The Anthbot Genie went on sale in Spring 2025, following a successful Kickstarter crowdfunding campaign. They're available to buy direct from Anthbot and Amazon in the US and the UK, and at list price they cost $999 / £999 for the Genie 600, $1,199 / £1,299 for the Genie 1000 and $1,599 / £1,699 for the Genie 3000.
Given that wire-free yard robotics is a relatively new thing, right now you can expect to pay big money for the privilege of never having to mow the lawn again. However, prices have already started to tumble and this will likely continue as more competition enters the market. In fact, at time of writing, all sizes of the Genie were heavily discounted in both the US and the UK. In the pantheon of robot lawn mowers, the Anthbot Genie's price structure can be considered quite reasonable given the huge amount of sci-fi tech involved.
3D Vision (4 Cameras) + All-round Physical Obstacle Avoidance
Maximum zones:
20 - 30
Anthbot Genie review: design
3 variants with different batteries for different lawn sizes
Navigates using RTK GPS and AI powered cameras
Wall mounting kit for RTK station is sold separately
Funny how the world of technology works. It takes just one company to create a new type of innovative product and within a year everyone's at it. Just look at robot vacuum cleaners. Once there was iRobot, then the likes of Roborock followed suit and, before we knew it, we were being bombarded with hundreds of robot vacs from companies we'd never heard of. Well the same thing is happening in the world of robot lawn mowers.
Although robot mowers have been out since the 1990s, I've never had the desire to review one because they've all required getting down on hands and knees and fixing, or burying, a ridiculously long boundary cable around the entire perimeter of the lawn and every outdoor ornament and piece of furniture. But that's all changed with the recent advent of RTK GPS-, camera-, and LiDAR-guided lawnbots that not only navigate a lawn – and any obstacles – with gobsmacking precision but cut grass in beautifully straight lines that make any lawn look immaculately snazzy.
(Image credit: Future)
Anthbot is one of those young upstarts and I've got to say that its design team has done its homework and designed one of the very best lawnbots I've so far tested – and a great looker to boot. In fact, it's getting rather difficult to write these reviews because every robotic lawn mower I receive to test seems to be a bit better than the last, and there are only so many stars one can give as commendation.
The Anthbot Genie is the latest addition to the fast-evolving world of smart robotic lawn mowers, and it brings some serious tech to the yard. This model is available in three battery capacities, which equate to the amount of lawn space they can realistically handle without having to return to recharge too often.
(Image credit: Future)
If you have a small urban-sized lawn, opt for the Genie 600 which has a reach of 0.22 acres / 900m² . If your lawn's a lot larger or you want the robot to cut an entire space without heading back to base for a recharge (remember, fewer recharge cycles equals a longer battery life) then opt for either the Genie 1000 which is suitable for lawns up to 0.49 acres / 2,000m² or the Genie 3000 which is capable of trimming a whopping 0.89 acres / 3,600m². All three variants are exactly the same size and have the same features, except the 3000 model can cut up to 30 different lawn zones while the other two can manage 20.
Unlike traditional robot mowers that rely on cumbersome boundary wires, the Genie uses advanced RTK-GPS combined with an AI-empowered navigation system comprising four cameras (including one on each side) that are said to provide '300-degree human-like vision and 360-degree collision sensing'. I believe it having seen it in operation.
(Image credit: Future)
RTK-GPS uses an RTK receiver to correct satellite signals, making them accurate to within a few centimeters. The system requires the bot and the receiver to have direct line of sight to a large proportion of the sky. The idea is that if the GPS signal is weak or lost due to overhead obstructions, the lawn bot will switch over to camera-based navigation.
I should add that RTK-GPS, which is accurate to just a few centimetres, isn't suitable for every home layout because the package requires having an aerial spiked into the lawn within a foot of the charging station and with a clear line of sight to as many satellites as possible. My own lawn is surrounded by very tall trees and the RTK stations of every lawnbot I've so far tested have all been positioned to the side of two 80-foot beech trees.
In theory my yard should be the worst case scenario but, against all odds, I'm receiving signals from between 12 and 25 satellites at any given time – and with just 50 per cent or so of visible sky. So don't write off this model or any other without taking a good look at the sky around your home.
(Image credit: Future)
If your land space looks unsuitable, Anthbot sells a wall-mounting kit that enables you to attach the RTK receiver to a structure up high (so there's wider direct line of sight to satellites in the sky), and plug it into a separate power source to the charge station. Some other lawnbots, include wall-mounting kit with the initial bundle, but here it's an additional purchase.
When it comes to obstacle avoidance, this model features three levels of sensitivity (low, medium and high) and it's worth playing around with the settings to find the best solution for your lawn. I've been very impressed with the Genie's obstacle avoidance and you can read more about it in the Performance chapter below.
(Image credit: Future)
Right, let's get down to the stats. The Genie's 7.9 inch / 20cm cutting width may sound modest, but it's more than capable of maintaining a consistently neat finish on the lawn sizes it was designed for. Like all robot mowers, the Genie uses a spinning horizontal disc with razor blades attached to the outer edge. Some models like the Eufy E15 have just three blades, but this one has five.
The Genie's motorized cutting height is fully adjustable between 1.2-2.8 inches in 0.2in increments (30-70mm in 5mm increments), allowing you to switch between a close-cropped summer lawn or a longer, lusher look in the cooler months. However, you won't see the 0.2in / 5mm increments on the app unless you tap on the dividing lines between each main measurement. Please fix this Anthbot.
Like 99 per cent of robot mowers, the Genie is a mulching model, so it finely chops grass into tiny nitrogen-rich clippings that naturally fertilize your lawn. That means no messy grass collectors and no piles of cuttings to dispose of. If the mower is set to perform two to three cuts a week, it will simply snip off a few days' worth growth and therefore not litter the lawn in cuttings.
All robot mowers are whisper-quiet when working; so quiet that you can hardly hear them from just a few meters away. This model's drive motor is a fraction louder than other lawnbots I've tested (around 58dB), but it's hardly audible when you're more than 8 meters away.
I sadly wasn't able to test the Genie's multi-zone function since I only have one lawn, but from what I've seen online, it behaves in the same way as other robot mowers and involves steering the robot like an RC car using the Bluetooth connection from one zone to another. As long as the path between the two zones is free of clutter – and especially gates and steps – the Genie will follow the same path every time it's out on a cutting spree. Impressively, this mower provides the option to create between 20 and 30 zones depending on the variant you've chosen.
(Image credit: Future)
If there are permanent obstacles within the lawn (beds, for example), you can create no-go zones so the mower doesn't try to cut them. As a step up from some competitor models, you can create these in-app with a few taps, just as you would with a robot vacuum cleaner. I should add that the Genie's navigation system will cover the vast majority of obstacle avoidance but it's good to have the no-go option for those who wish to make doubly sure that the robot will always avoid pitfalls like drop offs and ponds.
Like all robot mowers and vacs, the Genie can be easily programmed to run a regular schedule so the grass is always kept in tip-top condition. However, the Anthbot Genie app also features a Smart Lawn Care function, which automatically selects the best mowing strategy based on growth of the grass. I wasn't able to try out this function properly because my test period coincided with an ongoing drought that has prevented most UK grass from growing.
I did select the option but found it very confusing because it leapt straight into a schedule and the whole point of the function is that it chooses when to mow. If it's like Worx's Landroid Vision system, it should require input of grass type and then check local weather to create an automatic schedule.
Perhaps this feature will be improved going forward but for now I would suggest ignoring it and stick to your own schedules. Incidentally, like every other bot on the market, a rain sensor on top of the body automatically pauses mowing during wet weather and you can change the delayed mowing time from between one hour and eight hours.
(Image credit: Future)
Most mowers are capable of climbing inclines of 30% to 40% but this rear-wheel-drive model goes 5% more, meaning it's suitable for a slightly wider variety of landscapes. The two large and chubby front caster wheels help in this regard, but it's the oversized and heavy treaded rear wheels that provide all the traction. Nevertheless, there will be some lawns that are still too steep for this mower to handle. If that's your lawn, consider the all-wheel-drive Mammotion LUBA 2 or LUBA Mini which both boast amazing 80% incline ability.
Like most modern wireless robot mowers, the Genie is initially bound to one's WiFi and Anthbot account so any light-fingered thieves will basically have a brick on their hands. To further enhance security, a four-digit code is also required and if the robot is moved beyond its preset boundary, an alarm sounds on the robot and the user receives an emergency alert. Top marks in this respect.
According to the US and UK websites, Anthbot already has an after sales repair service in place in many territories – including the UK and US – with a 10 day turnaround in most cases. In fact, I've been very impressed by Anthbot's activity on Facebook in seeking feedback from current users regarding any improvements the company can make going forward.
Setup
The Genie arrived in a large box containing the mowing unit, a charging base, ample electrical cabling for an outdoor mains output and the RTK GPS antennae. I selected a space next to my Mammotion LUBA 2 and placed the antennae beside the charging station. This area is right beneath two 80-foot beech behemoths, a large horse chestnut and a small damson tree but, against all odds, every RTK system I've used has worked.
This one worked too, though it took a few minutes for the RTK receiver to log on to the prerequisite number of satellites. I'm actually amazed that these RTK-based lawnbots work at all on my lawn given the amount of trees surrounding it, and that just goes to show that there are a lot more satellites up there than you might think.
(Image credit: Future)
After turning it on and hearing the musical fanfare, you'll be asked to select the default pin code (0000). Even though the machine is also bonded to the owner's Wi-Fi and email address, this code is an extra line of defence against theft of the machine and should be changed to a personal code using the keypad on the unit or, better still, via the app. Just make sure to make a note of your own pin code because the product is a brick without it, and the only way to fix it is by contacting the manufacturer with proof of purchase.
All robots need to map the space they'll be working in; in this model's case, the Genie uses its RTK GPS and multi-camera system. Anthbot provides two methods for mapping a lawn: auto or manual. In auto the robot analyses the lawn's borders automatically, while manual involves driving the bot around the perimeter like an RC car.
I initially chose auto and the Genie mapped the lawn quickly without any messing about. It simply went to the nearest edge and mapped the entire lawn in about five minutes. That's a record! However, I've since discovered an excellent feature in the app that lets you manually expand the map by driving the robot even closer to the perimeter. Nice one Anthbot.
(Image credit: Future)
At this juncture I wish to give a shout out to the tailored Rain Cover for the Genie because it not only keeps the robot dry (even though its IPX6 waterproof) but, perhaps more importantly, it blocks out hot summer sun which could feasibly mess around with the bot's battery and electronics. The Anthbot garage is an impressive piece of kit in its own right since the main body is cast from solid steel and is so robust that I sense it would stand up to a tornado, let alone a gale.
Once the Anthbot Genie is all set up and ready to roll, it's simply a case of going into the app and setting a two- or three-day schedule, your preferred cutting height and obstacle sensitivity, and whether you want the robot to mow in vertical or horizontal stripes. And that's it. You can now retreat, safe in the knowledge that your lawn will always look neat and tidy, even when you're away on holiday.
Design score: 4.5 out of 5
Anthbot Genie review: performance
Impressive cutting performance
Superb navigation system
On-par obstacle avoidance
Every perimeter wire-free robot mower I've reviewed to date has performed surprisingly well, at least given the relative newness of this particular field of robotics. The Genie's 7.9 inch / 20cm cutting width may seem compact compared to the 15.7 inch / 40cm Mammotion NUBA 2, but I've been impressed by the precision of its cut – its five-blade disc spins at around 3,000rpm, slicing through grass stems like a pair of sharp scissors, leaving only the tiniest of mulched clippings in its wake. If programmed to perform regular cutting sessions during the main season, the nitrogen-rich clippings will soon disappear back into the lawn where they'll act as natural fertilizer.
Whether you set it to 1.2in / 30mm for a UK-style summer trim or 2.8in / 70mm for a longer cut that's more suited to US grass varieties, the Genie should maintain a consistent finish across varied lawn surfaces. The Genie's simple, replaceable blade system certainly handled my lawn's thick early summer growth with ease, leaving no clumps or uneven patches. However, it sadly hasn't seen much use during the past two weeks because the UK has been experiencing a series of heatwaves and all lawns in the southern region have shut down to some extent.
(Image credit: Future)
I've been especially impressed by the Genie's navigation system, which has never faulted in four weeks of using it. My base station is set to one side of my 170 square metre lawn with a gap of around 15 meters / 49ft to the side border and when the Genie leaves its station, it starts mowing in a straight vertical line from that point, missing the 1.5 metres of lawn width to its left and continuing to cut the largest section of lawn to its right.
It then moves to the left side of its first path to complete the rest of the lawn before moving to the edges, which it cuts remarkably well. I should add that its border cutting improved tenfold since I engaged the new 'edge-cutting' option and manually expanded the map by driving the robot closer to the border.
(Image credit: Future)
Granted, the Genie employs an unusual cutting pattern when compared to other lawnbots I've tested but, hey, it has always finished the task in about an hour so I have nothing to grumble about in this regard. All I know is that it creates lovely stripes in its wake. Yes, I still prefer the much wider tract of the Mammotion LUBA 2 but I'm getting more and more used to the narrower stripes that the majority of current bots create.
I've also been impressed by the Genie's better-than-average obstacle avoidance. I tested it using a variety of objects – from dog toys and tennis balls to a chewed-up plastic plant pot – and it avoided all of them with deft precision (the two extra side-mounted cameras most definitely helped in this area). In fact I was so impressed I decided to bring out the ping-pong ball that no robot mower has so far avoided. Unfortunately, this was too small an item even for the Genie, which makes me think that manufacturers adjust their respective robots to ignore the smallest of objects on purpose lest they mistake scattered leaves for obstacles and avoid them entirely.
(Image credit: Future)
I should add that my test lawn is perfect for any robot since it's rectangular shaped and with no inclines and no major obstacles in the way. Nevertheless, I have watched a few videos by other users with more challenging terrain and they've also been impressed with the Genie's performance.
One thing I have noticed is that the Genie 3000 I was sent to review has been able to cut my entire lawn and the edges with 72 per cent of battery remaining. Yes, this model is overkill for my lawn size but it just goes to show how energy-efficient the model's battery and motors are. If you can afford it, perhaps opt for a larger model than you need so you can cut down on battery charging cycles and have the available juice to cut extra lawn zones in the future.
Performance score: 5 out of 5
Anthbot Genie review: app
Easy to use
Receives quite regular updates
Some room for improvement
The Anthbot app is mostly excellent. This easy-to-use app allows the user to set cutting heights and angle of cut, create up to 30 mowing zones, programme different schedules for each and define no-go areas with a swipe of the finger. The app also includes real-time monitoring so you can check the mower's location, battery level and progress at any time, even if you're away from home.
(Image credit: Anthbot)
My test model recently received a comprehensive update with additions to cut horizontally, edit the lawn's boundary and choose from three levels of obstacle avoidance. However, I would love to see Anthbot improve its cutting angle feature so that it behaves more like Eufy's E15 model, which provides an animated map with an adjustable arrow that swivels the entire map of the lawn on its axis so you can easily view the direction in which the robot will cut.
Given that Anthbot's reps are very responsive and eager to address current users' suggestions, you can be sure there'll be more tantalising updates along the way.
App score: 4 out of 5
Should you buy the Anthbot Genie lawnbot?
Attribute
Notes
Rating
Value
In the arena of smart lawnbots, the Genie is very competitively priced. Deals are already easy to come by.
4/5
Design
Navigates using RTK GPS and 4 cameras on front and sides. Available in 3 battery capacities for different-sized lawns.
4.5/5
Performance
Exceptional performance with neat mowing, very accurate navigation and commendable obstacle avoidance.
5/5
App
Despite a few required tweaks, the Anthbot app is easy to use and pretty comprehensive.
4/5
Buy it if...
You want an easy time
This model is a breeze to use, with no major foibles to report.
You want lawn stripes
The Genie cuts in uniform parallel stripes.
You value reliable obstacle avoidance
With three levels of avoidance, this bot is a top dodger.
Don't buy it if...
Your lawn looks like the foothills of the Himalayas
With a 45% maximum gradient, this bot isn't suitable for very steep inclines.
You have lots of overhead obstacles
The Genie uses an RTK GPS navigation system, which relies on a decently clear view of the sky to allow it to talk to the satellites.
How I tested the Anthbot Genie
TechRadar employs a strict routine when testing equipment. Firstly I live with the robot for a week or two, letting it do its thing while observing its behavior. Then I get down to enacting some real-world scenarios like obstacle avoidance and introducing it to various types of borders to see how well it behaves. Robots can be very unpredictable so these tests can take a few hours to complete with lots of written observations. Once I'm satisfied that there aren't any major concerns, I'll start writing the review while very carefully considering the amount of stars each area of the product deserves.
The moment I took the ViWoods AiPaper epaper tablet out of its box, I was surprised at how light it was. It was already inside a thin magnetic case, with the stylus in its loop, and it still felt like the lightest 10-inch E Ink tablet I’d ever used. And that's despite the fact that it's taller than its competition at 10.65 inches rather than the average 10.3 screen size.
The closest (direct) competition is from the Onyx Boox Go 10.3, which also runs Android (albeit an older version) and is 4.6mm thick, tipping the scales at 375g. The AiPaper, on the other hand weighs 370g and is 4.5mm thick. I never expected the small 5g weight difference to be discernible but, interestingly, you can 'feel' it.
The AiPaper also looks very much like the Boox Go 10.3, with silver edges, whitish-grey bezels and the flush E Ink display that doesn’t have a frontlight. And that’s alright because the AiPaper is more for writers and other creative people than an ereader you’d take to bed at night. The best part about the design in my opinion: the stylus magnetically sticks over the screen rather than the sides.
At its main function of being a digital notebook, it excels. Everything you need is neatly laid out on the homepage, so it’s very easy to get to grips with and the settings are simple to understand.
You can start writing on it straight out of the box (if it’s charged) because the first application you see is Paper (for notes). You also have easy access to a calendar, a digital sketchpad and a bunch of pre-installed applications that include Kindle, Kobo, OneNote, Libby and Wattpad, just to name a few.
There’s even a Mailbox to access your email on and, guess what, you can handwrite your reply and the built-in AI assistant converts it to text before sending. Watch out for the AI text conversion though – it’s not consistently accurate – so you may need to make edits before you send someone an email. You can even email your notes directly from the Paper app.
The home screen on the ViWoods AiPaper is neatly laid out, so everything is accessible quickly (Image credit: Sharmishta Sarkar / TechRadar)
While there are plenty of pen options for writing, I was a little surprised that drawing only has three (each with three thicknesses) – competing tablets offer more for creativity. Stylus input, however, has no lag whatsoever and the nib moves smoothly over the screen. There’s just enough friction to give you the feel of paper and I quite enjoyed the writing experience.
I appreciate the numerous templates and the separate calendar application too, even one called Meeting for jotting down minutes. Then there’s the AI button that gives you access to full-fat ChatGPT-4o or GPT-4o-mini. DeepSeek is also preinstalled. It's important to note, however, there are always risks with using AI, but if you're comfortable with it, it can be a fantastic productivity tool.
Chrome and the Google Play Store are also available out of the box. It uses a custom version of Android 13, but I found that the tablet I was sent for this review was not Play Protect Certified (meaning, I couldn’t access the Play Store at initial setup). I had to follow some steps to register the device and it was smooth sailing after that.
I won’t talk much about what it’s like to use as an ereader because that’s not its main function, and it has support for fewer file formats than some other brands with similar tablets, but they are the most common ebook formats, including EPUB, MOBI, CBZ and CBR. Moreover, without a frontlight, it may not be the best ereader for many users. PDF editing is possible if the document you’ve uploaded has edit capabilities.
Ghosting is a minor problem on this tablet, but I didn't notice it until I looked at the photos I had taken of the AiPaper. So it won't really be an issue when in use.
The entire setup is a lovely middle ground between reMarkable’s minimalist approach and Boox’s overcomplicated one – it’s well thought out and stands out as a unique alternative to its aforementioned competitors. There’s a heck of a lot more to unpack here (read on below for more details), but I really can’t get over the high asking price for this E Ink tablet – it's about $200 / £100 / AU$250 more than competing options even when discounted – although it could be argued that it justifies its cost just on performance alone.
Having Google Chrome preinstalled is fantastic (Image credit: Sharmishta Sarkar / TechRadar)
ViWoods AiPaper review: Price & availability
Released after a Kickstarter campaign in September 2024
Available to buy in the US since December 2024 and in Australia since March 2025
List price of $799 / £610 / AU$1,199; can be purchased from on Amazon
100-day free trial, but terms and conditions apply
There are two AiPaper tablets available from Chinese brand ViWoods – the larger 10.65-inch model reviewed here and a smaller 8-inch alternative called AiPaper Mini. The bigger device went on sale in the US towards the end of 2024, and has been available in Australia since March 2025.
The 10.65-inch E Ink tablet is not what I would deem 'affordable' – in fact, it’s the most expensive epaper device I’ve tested to date, with its $799 / £610 / AU$1,199 price tag making it costlier than the color reMarkable Paper Pro and the grayscale Supernote Manta.
That said, there is a slim case in the box, as well as the stylus and extra nibs too. In many other cases, you’ll need to buy the case separately, but this bundle is still very much in premium territory.
The ViWoods AiPaper Mini is also quite steeply priced ( listed for $599 / £455 / AU$939; discounts are available) compared to the likes of the 8-inch Kobo Sage, the 7-inch Kobo Libra Colour and the stylus-supported Boox Go 7 from Onyx. However, it too ships with a stylus while other smaller slates require you to purchase that separately.
Despite being a full-featured E Ink tablet running Android 13, it’s hard to justify even the discounted price, more so when you can get the Boox Go 10.3 for $379.99 / €419.99 (about £355) / AU$699. Even the reMarkable 2 would be a good alternative and save you money at full price. Price is the main reason why it gets some points docked in this review.
However, ViWoods stands apart from other brands by offering a 100-day free trial of its products when purchased directly from the brand's website, but there are a few other terms and conditions you will need to be aware of to take advantage of this offer. The tablets also come with a 14-month warranty for functional defects.
• Value score: 3.5 / 5
Writing on the ViWoods AiPaper is a wonderful experience, with several pen types and thicknesses to choose from (Image credit: Sharmishta Sarkar / TechRadar)
ViWoods AiPaper review: specs
Display type:
E Ink Carta 1300 with E Ink Mobius base
Screen size:
10.65 inches
Resolution:
300ppi (2560 x 1920 pixels)
Processor:
2GHz octa-core MediaTek MT8183
Frontlight:
None
Storage:
128GB (non-expandable)
Battery:
4,100mAh
Speaker:
None
Water protection:
None
Software:
Android 13
Connectivity:
USB-C, Wi-Fi, Bluetooth 5.0
File support:
7 (5 documents, 2 images)
Dimensions:
247 x 178 x 4.5 mm
Weight:
370g (without case and pen)
ViWoods AiPaper review: Design & display
Thinnest and lightest 10-inch E Ink tablet I’ve tested
Very nice 10.65-inch E Ink Carta 1300 display
Stylus is slightly thicker than most, but very ergonomic and lightweight
Built-in mic, but no speakers or microSD card tray
The overall design of the ViWoods AiPaper is familiar to me as it’s quite similar to the Boox Go 10.3 I’ve previously tested. The difference here is that it’s even lighter and thinner and, while you’d think that a 0.1mm thickness and 5g of weight difference wouldn’t matter much, think again. The moment I took the AiPaper out of its box – it was already encased in a magnetic folio with the stylus in its loop – it was noticeably lighter compared to all the other large-screen E Ink tablets I’ve tested.
It is, however, taller than other tablets like it. Its screen size comes in at 10.65 inches compared to the average 10.3 inches, but it doesn't add too much to the overall footprint – it's slightly taller than its counterparts. The thinness more than makes up for it, though.
And while the tablet itself has no protection against moisture, the supplied case is waterproof. Oh, and this magnetic folio barely weighs a thing too. The lack of waterproofing is not unique to the AiPaper – pretty much every single 10-inch epaper note-taking device I’ve tested has had no IP certification.
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There's a noticeable difference in thickness between the AiPaper lying on top of the Kindle Scribe (2024) (Image credit: Sharmishta Sarkar / TechRadar)
Image 2 of 3
The flush power button is home to a pretty accurate fingerprint scanner (Image credit: Sharmishta Sarkar / TechRadar)
Image 3 of 3
There's a mic right beside the USB-C port (Image credit: Sharmishta Sarkar / TechRadar)
Its lightweight design aside, the AiPaper looks lovely, with whitish-grey bezels and silver trimming along the four sides. The rear panel is a thin plastic sheet to match the bezels. The bottom bezel is broader and is home to three touch buttons that are very reminiscent of Android devices – back, home and AI. The last one opens up an application that gives you access to ChatGPT or DeepSeek, the choice is yours.
The only physical button on the device is to power it up (or down), which lies flush with the top edge and houses a fingerprint sensor. I thought such a thin surface would have trouble reading fingerprints, but I was wrong – it functioned well 95% of the time, but the raised edge of the case can get in the way sometimes which, for me, was the rest 5% of the time.
Image 1 of 2
The AiPaper Gen2.5 Stylus Pen magnetically secures to the top of the screen via its flat side and comes with two nib types (Image credit: Sharmishta Sarkar / TechRadar)
Image 2 of 2
The eraser on the top is spring-loaded and works quite well (Image credit: Sharmishta Sarkar / TechRadar)
I should also mention the stylus separately as it’s a little broader than the pens used by most other brands – only marginally so – but it’s lightweight and ergonomic. It’s called the AiPaper Gen2.5 Stylus Pen and it's made from light-grey plastic to match the tablet. It features an eraser on the top and a button on the flattened length on its body.
That flat section is what secures the stylus magnetically over the display (as pictured above) and that’s an exceptional addition as the curved edges (or sides) of the tablet are so thin, there’s no way the pen would stick there, as is common in other models. The closer to the center of the screen you get, the stronger the hold, but it will stay anywhere on the top surface of the device.
For when you're in transit, though, the loop on the protective case will keep the Gen2.5 Stylus Pen safe.
It’s also the first stylus I’ve used that comes with two types of replacement nibs in the box – the default is a ‘smooth writing’ nib that’s soft and thus can wear out easily, but it can be replaced with a more ‘durable’ or harder nib if you wish. Swapping one out for the other is as simple as pulling out the used one to slide in the replacement until it clicks into place.
Both the stylus and the tablet use Wacom EMR technology, so even if you lose the Gen2.5 Stylus Pen, you can use an alternative that has the same tech. I tried the Boox Pen Plus that came with the Go 10.3 and it worked just fine.
You get access to the ViWoods user community, which can handy if you have questions or want to leave feedback (Image credit: Sharmishta Sarkar / TechRadar)
The display technology used here is seemingly a hybrid of two E Ink screens. ViWoods says the top rigid layer is the E Ink Carta 1300 for writing and reading on, and it sits on a flexible E Ink Mobius base. The slight flexibility it offers, according to ViWood, is meant to offer the "rebound" feel of paper when you write. I didn't quite experience it but then I have no complaints whatsoever with how it feels to write on.
Everything you write on this monochrome screen is sharp, with excellent contrast for the pen's markings. That means it's quite dark against the pale background, which makes handwritten notes very easy to read, particularly without a frontlight.
On the other hand, the contrast when reading ebooks in the Learning app (where the library sits) is a little lackluster when compared to the likes of the Amazon Kindle Scribe (2024) – the words on the page appear lighter in comparison (see the image below). That doesn't mean you can't use the AiPaper as an ereader, it just hasn't been optimized well for that purpose.
The screen also lacks a frontlight, although that in no way hampers its usability and a lightless display is hardly unique to ViWood. Neither the reMarkable 2 nor the Boox Go 10.3 have a frontlight and they’re both still very nice to use. While I would have preferred a frontlight myself because I’m a nighttime reader and I would have loved to use the AiPaper as an ereader as well, that is not its primary function – it’s a productivity tablet, so writing, sketching and scheduling are what it does best.
• Design & display score: 5 / 5
The three touch buttons on the bottom bezel are very reminiscent of Android devices (Image credit: Sharmishta Sarkar / TechRadar)
ViWoods AiPaper review: Software & user experience
Arguably the most important factor when choosing an epaper writing tablet for yourself would be its software and user interface. Where Kobo and Kindle use custom Linux operating systems, as does reMarkable, Boox and ViWoods have adopted Android.
The ViWoods AiPaper uses a trimmed-down, custom edition of Android 13 (compared to Android 12 on the Boox Go 10.3) that caters specifically to reading and writing. And, importantly, the entire setup is fantastic, far better than the Boox alternative which, in fact, has a more streamlined interface compared to older models from the brand.
On the AiPaper, the interface is a fabulous middle ground – neither too minimalist like reMarkable, nor too complicated like Boox.
Android OS and apps
Runs a custom version of Android 13
Very streamlined user interface
Nearly all applications you might need are already preinstalled, but there’s full access to the Play Store
The moment you switch on the ViWoods AiPaper, you’ll see the bottom right block already has a few apps preinstalled. Tap and you’ll find Chrome and the Google Play Store already there, ready for you to sign into.
The latter was the only real issue I ran into when setting up the AiPaper for this review: being unable to access the Play Store at the start. That’s because the device sent to me was not Play Protect Certified, meaning it hadn’t been registered with Google for Play Store access.
A little research told me that this is was not an isolated incident, although some users online have had no problems whatsoever. Getting this done, though, is very simple and ViWoods has a handy guide to help you.
Interestingly, ViWoods has implemented Android's 'long-press to copy and paste' functionality for this setup – I wish this would be expanded to all aspects of the tablet, wherein any handwritten, or at the very least text-converted, note can be copied across documents or applications. The feature already exists in the software, so it's just a matter of enabling it on a wider scale (although I'm not a developer and I can't speak to the feasibility of expanding it).
It also took three attempts to sync my Google Drive account to the tablet for cloud transfer of files despite being logged in on the first attempt. Why this happened is still a mystery to me.
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Pen settings aren't too complicated, but I would have liked to reassign the button to something other than erase (Image credit: Sharmishta Sarkar / TechRadar)
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Play Store connectivity at inital setup may not be there and you will have to do so manually (Image credit: Sharmishta Sarkar / TechRadar)
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General settings are simple and easy to understand (Image credit: Sharmishta Sarkar / TechRadar)
An unexpected surprise on the AiPaper that I haven't seen on any other tablet like this is email access. There’s a Mailbox application preinstalled that can be set up if you don't want to download Gmail or any other mail app but, interestingly, it allows you to handwrite your replies if you choose.
AI handwriting recognition is available on nearly every native application that allows you to use the stylus, but I found that the text conversion wasn’t always accurate and I pride myself on having a rather nice (and readable) handwriting. I’ve had no issues with handwriting recognition on the Kobo Elipsa 2E or the Kindle Scribe 2024 for example, so I’m surprised that the AiPaper is getting a few things wrong.
It’s not really a deal breaker as I found the onscreen keyboard just as easy to use to make any necessary edits. Unlike the Boox keyboard, which is a much more complicated affair with tiny keys, the ViWoods has big tiles and is very responsive.
Full access to the Play Store can be a huge plus if you're focused on productivity (Image credit: Sharmishta Sarkar / TechRadar)
I would normally be downloading the Kindle and Kobo apps on any other epaper tablet like this, but they were both already available to sign into. I was pleasantly surprised to find even the Libby app preinstalled, alongside the New York Times, Wattpad and a few more. So all I ended up adding was a couple of other productivity apps to test annotations and a couple of benchmarking tools to sate my own curiosity.
As I’ve already mentioned, the overall user interface is fantastic, lending itself well to a tablet like the AiPaper. You have everything you need at your fingertips, but you can always add more to make the most of Play Store access. You can also get involved with the ViWoods user community directly from the tablet in case you want to ask a question, leave feedback or get some help with any issue you have with the product.
One thing to note about the AiPaper is that, during my testing, my MacBook couldn't register the tablet in Finder, although ViWoods' promotional imagery indicates that should work. This means that the Android File Transfer app doesn't work, which was my experience with all Boox devices as well. I plugged the AiPaper into a Windows machine where it was available for file transfer via USB-C. I also couldn't get Wi-Fi Transfer to work, but this wasn't much of a deal breaker for me because cloud sync is quite quick. While Google Drive was my service of choice, Dropbox and OneDrive support is also available.
• Software score: 4 / 5
There are quite a few tools built into the native Paper (notes) application (Image credit: Sharmishta Sarkar / TechRadar)
Writing & productivity
Native notes app is full featured; voice input is available
Annotations are possible on several third-party apps
Smooth and lag-free stylus input
I can't help but extol the virtues of the writing and productivity features of the ViWoods AiPaper. From a dedicated notes application called Paper to another called Meeting for jotting down minutes, even a calendar application that allows you to write within each date box and list task for a specific date – you have plenty to get you started. And they all have voice input available if you’re feeling too lazy to write – even the diary entries!
Don’t want to use the native writing app? OneNote is preinstalled in the app drawer and it works well with the supplied stylus. You can download any other third-party notes application – I tried Evernote and Google Keep, both of which worked fine – and ViWoods says you can annotate any page, no matter which application you use.
If you haven’t used any other note-taking application before, you’ll find more than enough in the native app. You can add pages and move them around easily enough, you can delete individual pages quickly by opening up a multipage document as a grid, you can change the template of individual pages… the list goes on. You can add layers, create tags, text boxes (or boxouts) and use a lasso tool to select text.
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It may not be my best handwriting sample, but I thought it was easy to read; the AI didn't agree (Image credit: Sharmishta Sarkar / TechRadar)
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At other times, though, it managed just fine (Image credit: Sharmishta Sarkar / TechRadar)
The AI button within the Paper application allows you to analyze text, convert a note into an email or convert handwriting into text. As I’ve already alluded before, AI conversions aren’t the best. For example (see the above image for clarification), I selected a handwritten question jotted down when making notes for this review: “Does template change affect all pages?” I selected it to be analyzed and the response from ChatGPT was: “The content consists of a handwritten note that appears to address the question “does bipolar change affect all pages?” The next time I got the same bit of handwriting ‘analyzed’, it became “inequality change”. C’mon, my handwriting isn’t that bad, surely!
For writing, you have an extensive choice of pens – seven, in fact, with five thickness options and four grayscale colors. Strangely, though, these brush types are missing in the Picking application (used for drawing and sketching) which, instead, only gets three pen types with three thicknesses each. I think it should be the other way around.
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I appreciate the several pen and stroke options in the Paper app for writing... (Image credit: Sharmishta Sarkar / TechRadar)
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..but I'm surprised the same isn't available for the Picking (or drawing) app (Image credit: Sharmishta Sarkar / TechRadar)
With 4,096 pressure levels and up to 60º tilt sensitivity for the stylus, the same brush types for creativity would have been great for artists who don’t necessarily want a dedicated drawing tablet like the XPPen Artist Pro 14 (Gen 2). Then again, I can't draw to save my life, so perhaps the limited pens in the Picking app would suffice for most users.
So my main complaint is only with the AI-powered handwriting recognition, which intermittently found it hard to decipher my relatively neat notes, but worked fine when it came to a colleague’s bad scribbles. Yes, I'm taking it personally – and no, I won’t deduct any marks for that.
• Writing score: 4.5 / 5
Reading
Library is buried within another app
Wired and Wi-Fi file transfer didn't work with macOS as represented by ViWoods
Support for limited file formats, but more than enough for casual reading
With no built-in bookstore, you need to either use the browser (Chrome) to source content or import via wired or cloud transfer. I used the latter method to sideload a few titles I already own as, previously stated, my MacBook was unable to register the AiPaper and I found that OTG support (which is available on Android 13) has not been implemented on this tablet.
It was during this process when things got a little murky for me.
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Where to build the library was a little confusing on the AiPaper... (Image credit: Sharmishta Sarkar / TechRadar)
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..and, as a macOS user, I found cloud transfer to be the best way to sync files (Image credit: Sharmishta Sarkar / TechRadar)
When selecting to import (in my case from Google Drive), the AiPaper gives you two locations to save the ebooks – My Notes and My Files. The latter has a folder already called ‘e_books’, which is where I assumed I needed to build my library. Sure, that can be done, and this source uses the Bookshelf application to open EPUBs. However, the app doesn’t like sideloaded files (which I appreciate is a step to prevent piracy) and I couldn’t go beyond the book cover. It also needs an account to work.
I then saved the same titles to My Notes and that, dear reader, seemed to be where the default library is – tucked within the native Learning application. It supports a fair few common file formats, including EPUB, MOBI, CBZ and CBR, but I also found there's support for Kindle's AZW and AZW3.
The My Notes section is also where you can upload editable PDFs in case you need to fill a form or sign one.
Text is sharp on the screen, although I would have preferred more contrast to make the words on page darker but, again, it's not a deal breaker as you can add a little weight (thickness) to the text to make them appear darker.
There's a distinct lack of contrast for text on the AiPaper (right) compared to the exact same page on the Kindle Scribe (left) (Image credit: Sharmishta Sarkar / TechRadar)
You can either choose to swipe on the screen to turn a page or tap and I would recommend the latter – if you have a swipe gesture set up already for 'going back', that is the function that will constantly get triggered rather than turning to the next page. The top toolbar that appears when you first open a title can be made to disappear to leave a very clean page that you can annotate to your heart’s content.
I also found that the slightly larger screen made reading a much nicer experience than on the other 10.3-inch epaper tablets. The page layouts looked neater and, I suppose, the additional lines on a page do make a difference. That said, with no frontlight, it's clear that doubling as an ereader is not its priority.
• Reading score: 4 / 5
There's no speaker on the AiPaper, but Bluetooth connectivity will allow you to enjoy streaming music (Image credit: Sharmishta Sarkar / TechRadar)
ViWoods AiPaper review: Performance
Excellent overall performance on a very responsive screen
Mild ghosting across all applications
Good battery life but can consume more power during certain tasks
As I’ve already mentioned earlier in this review, the AiPaper uses a processor that’s quite powerful for a device like an epaper tablet. While the MediaTek MT8183 can make Chromebooks purr along smoothly at higher wattages with specific implementations, my benchmarking told me that ViWoods hasn't taken full advantage of what this CPU can achieve. Compared to the Qualcomm Snapdragon 680 SoC used in the Boox Go 10.3, the benchmark numbers are rather dismal for the AiPaper even though the expectation was that they'd be evenly matched.
For context, Geekbench 6 recorded a single-core score of 403 for the Boox and 299 for the AiPaper, while multi-core scores were 1261 and 1114 respectively. But forget the numbers: the implementation of Android and the amount of RAM available is, ultimately, what will determine how well an epaper tablet will perform in real-world use.
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There are a few very useful AI-powered features in the Paper app (Image credit: Sharmishta Sarkar / TechRadar)
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Reorganizing pages within a notebook is extremely easy (Image credit: Sharmishta Sarkar / TechRadar)
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Arguably one of the best native notes applications I've tried (Image credit: Sharmishta Sarkar / TechRadar)
And that's exactly what's in evidence here. Despite ViWoods not harnessing the full power of the CPU, it's the better performer compared to the Boox as the execution of the OS here and the 4GB of RAM (same as in the Go 10.3) combine to make things run very smoothly indeed. Moreover, the MT8183 CPU also has slightly better RAM speed, so the overall system performance is better here.
Whether it was opening apps, writing or using the on-screen keyboard, I found the AiPaper just that tiny bit quicker than the Boox. I initially didn't even notice the ghosting on the screen until I looked at the photos of tablet I had taken for this review; on the Boox, though, it can be quite evident.
There are three refresh rates available on the AiPaper and I found the default Best to be, well, the best. Fast and Ultra-Fast resulted in more ghosting in some applications, and didn't make a huge amount of difference while scrolling in apps like Chrome. Expect the occasional stutter when scrolling, though, which is more due to the limitations of the E Ink screen tech rather than a fault of the device.
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The instructions for getting Play Protect Certification isn't accurate on the tablet, but ViWoods has a better guide on its website (Image credit: Sharmishta Sarkar / TechRadar)
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Despite security risks involved with AI use, it can be a very handy productivity tool (Image credit: Sharmishta Sarkar / TechRadar)
Not a single application has crashed since I began using this tablet (three weeks to the time of publication) – in comparison, I ran into a problem with the Boox Go 10.3 when testing its native notes app. According to Onyx Boox, the Go 10.3 can take up to 500 pages per document, but it crashed after 10. The biggest handwritten document I had on the AiPaper was 15 pages and it showed no signs of slowing down. There were no hiccups with turning pages or bringing up the AI analyze/handwriting recognition on nearly every page of that document.
Battery life is decent but not as good as the Boox (the Snapdragon 680 is known for more efficient battery use) or the Kindle Scribe, and that's despite the AiPaper using a larger capacity pack. The 4,100mAh battery which will offer no more than two weeks of use if you spend an hour with it each day. On standby, you could get up to four weeks on a single charge.
This is because there are some tasks that drain more battery than others, like downloading apps from the Play Store or importing documents via cloud transfer, but you should still get a few days out of each top up even if you use it extensively.
Charging up is also quite quick – it went from 9% to full in just under two hours during my testing, and that was when plugged into a dock and not a wall charger.
• Performance score: 4.5 / 5
Even the case is so thin, it barely makes a dent in the overall weight of the device (Image credit: Sharmishta Sarkar / TechRadar)
Should I buy the ViWoods AiPaper?
Attribute
Notes
Score
Value
It might be the best epaper writing tablet I’ve tested, but it’s eye-wateringly expensive at full price.
3.5 / 5
Design & display
It’s both very thin and very lightweight, even with a case. And even though it uses a 10.65-inch display, its overall footprint isn't too much more. And the screen is lovely to use as well, although it lacks contrast.
5 / 5
Software & apps
An open Android ecosystem and an easy-to-use interface makes this a winner in my books, but it has a few minor issues.
4 / 5
Writing & productivity
The limited pen types for drawing could be a deal breaker for artists, but if productivity is priority over creativity, then the AiPaper will serve you well.
4.5 / 5
Reading
While the lack of a frontlight might be an issue for some, the AiPaper is a passable ereader.
4 / 5
Performance
No other epaper writing tablet I’ve tested has been as fast as the AiPaper – overall performance is fantastic. Battery life, however, is limited compared to other brands.
4.5 / 5
Buy it if...
You want top-notch performance from an epaper tablet
It's hard to fault the performance of the AiPaper. It's responsive, fast and, despite a little bit of ghosting, its default refresh rate is capable of handling most apps. ViWoods arguably has the best epaper tablet on the market in the AiPaper.
You want an open ecosystem, with the freedom to use any app you want
Running Android 13 means you get full access to the Play Store, so you can do a lot on this tablet. And interestingly, this is the first epaper tablet I’ve tested that has a native email app that allows you to handwrite your replies if you so choose.
You want the thinnest and lightest epaper tablet
I thought the Boox Go 10.3 was thin and light, but I hadn’t met the AiPaper then. Taking away the accolade of being the thinnest and lightest epaper tablet I've tested, even the AiPaper's case doesn't add much weight to the full package.
Don't buy it if...
You don’t want to spend too much money on an epaper tablet
Most 10-inch E Ink note-taking tablets are expensive, but the AiPaper has an eye-watering price tag. Even discounted, it costs more than its many competitors, but if money is no object, I can’t recommend it highly enough.
You need a lot of storage space
Honestly, 128GB of built-in storage is plenty for a device like the AiPaper, but if that’s not going to cut it for you, you’ll need to look for an alternative with expandable storage. There’s no microSD card tray here.
You read more than you write
If you’re not going to take full advantage of the AiPaper’s many productivity features, you’ll save a lot of money by opting for either a smaller epaper tablet like the Kobo Libra Colour or a relatively cheaper 10-inch option like the Kindle Scribe. Moreover, avid readers would prefer a frontlight, which the AiPaper misses out on.
ViWoods AiPaper review: Alternatives
As great as I think the ViWoods AiPaper is, it may not suit everyone. If you're keen to check out alternatives, I've listed three options below that offer something different from each other. They also come in at slightly different price points, so take a look at their specs comparison below listed alongside the AiPaper itself, and read on for a quick look at each.
ViWoods AiPaper
Onyx Boox Go 10.3
reMarkable 2
Amazon Kindle Scribe (2024)
Price
$799 / £610 / AU$1,199
$409.99 / €419.99 (about £355) / AU$699
From $399 / £389 / AU$669
From $399.99 / £379.99 / AU$649
Screen
10.65-inch E Ink Carta 1300
10.3-inch E Ink Carta 1200
10.3-inch Canvas 2
10.2-inch undisclosed E Ink Carta display (possibly 1200)
Resolution
300ppi
300ppi
226ppi
300ppi
Operating system
Android 13
Android 12
Linux-based
Linux-based
Storage
128GB
64GB
8GB
16GB / 32GB / 64GB
CPU
2GHz octa-core MediaTek MT8183
2GHz octa-core Qualcomm Snapdragon 680
1.2GHz dual-core ARM
Undisclosed
Battery
4,100mAh
3,700mAh
3,000mAh
Undisclosed
Waterproofing
None
None
None
None
File support
7
26
2
16
Speakers
None
Dual
None
None
Dimensions
247 x 178 x 4.5 mm
235 x 183 x 4.6 mm
246 x 188 x 4.7 mm
230 x 196 x 5.7 mm
Weight
370g
375g
403.5g
433g
Onyx Boox Go 10.3
Missing out on the thinnest epaper tablet accolade by a millimeter, the Boox Go 10.3 is a cheaper alternative that runs Android 12. If you aren’t too fussed about security updates, this might suit you better. Compared to the AiPaper, though, the user interface is a little over the top, but it’s a lot more streamlined than older Boox tablets. Read my full Onyx Boox Go 10.3 review for more information
reMarkable 2
Now a little long in the tooth, but if it’s writing and creativity that takes priority for you, the reMarkable 2 is a great option. You will, however, need a subscription to access your files and there’s no Play Store access either, but the minimalist user interface is distraction-free. Read my in-depth reMarkable 2 review to learn more
Amazon Kindle Scribe (2024)
If you prefer an epaper writing tablet that can double up as your ereader, then the newest model of the Kindle Scribe would be my recommendation. Its auto-brightness adjusting screen is downright fantastic to read on and writing on it is just as lovely. You will be enclosed in Amazon’s walled garden though, but if you already use the company’s services, then it’s a no-brainer. Read our full Amazon Kindle Scribe (2024) review for more details
How I tested the ViWoods AiPaper
Used for three weeks as main writing tablet
Uploaded a few EPUBs via cloud transfer to test reading
Downloaded a few Android apps, including benchmarking ones
It's not a deal breaker but I wish the AiPaper would register on my MacBook (Image credit: Sharmishta Sarkar / TechRadar)
I’ve tested quite a few epaper writing tablets in the last few years, so I’ve got a system in place when I receive a new model for review. Immediately after connecting to Wi-Fi, I go through the settings to see what I need to change to have taps and gestures set up just right for me, I also go through refresh-rate options and get rid of any nav ball that’s preinstalled (I find them very distracting on the page).
That done, it’s time to open up the native apps and see what’s on offer. In the AiPaper’s case, I started with the Paper application to start scribbling some random thoughts, then went sequentially through the pre-installed options, like calendar and drawing.
I found the Learning application a little confusing, but its purpose became clear when I tried to add a few EPUBs for testing its reading prowess.
I can’t draw to save my life, but I did try the Picking application as well, just to see what it was like. I also checked what kind of pen types (and nib thicknesses) were available for creativity.
I was chuffed to see the Kindle and Kobo apps were already preinstalled, but I downloaded a few other applications from the Play Store to test speed and performance. This included Geekbench 6 that I used to benchmark the CPU (just to sate my curiosity).
I plugged an external SSD into the USB-C port to see if there was OTG support and I also tried connecting the tablet to both a MacBook and a Windows laptop. I tested the AI app, personally preferring ChatGPT to DeepSeek, and tested the other AI-powered features in the Paper app.
Having reviewed epaper tablets from several brands, I have the experience to compare the ViWoods AiPaper to several other models in the market to score it fairly.
This review first appeared in issue 360 of PC Pro.
One of the most aggravating things about buying technology is that you can always go one further. Spend a little more, get a little more. And that’s exactly the case if you increase your budget from £1,000 to £1,250, with the Palicomp AMD Destiny offering a significant speed hike over the CyberPowerPC opposite.
The vast majority of this is due to the presence of an RTX 4070 Super card rather than an RTX 4060. At retail, the 4070 Super costs around £600 compared to £300 for its lesser sibling, and it’s roughly twice as fast, too. 3DMark Time Spy is a great measure of this, with the Destiny scoring 18,932 versus 10,518 for the Infinity X145 Elite.
In practice, I can simplify the differences between the two machines in one sentence: the Destiny is a solid option for 4K gaming where the Infinity is not. That’s shown by a trio of results at 4K and High settings in Cyberpunk 2077, Shadow of the Tomb Raider and Dirt 5, where Palicomp’s PC returned averages of 79fps, 114fps and 119fps compared to 39fps, 57fps and 54fps. It doesn’t take a mathematician to spot that the Destiny’s scores are almost exactly twice as fast.
Palicomp has given the RTX 4070 Super a helping hand by using one of the fastest gaming processors on the planet, namely the AMD Ryzen 7 7800X3D. The chip’s X3D suffix indicates the extra Level 3 cache (made possible by a 3D-stacked chipset) that AMD adds over the standard 7800X, which gives an instant boost in most games.
An RTX 4070 Super graphics card takes center stage(Image credit: Future)
The downside of AMD’s X3D range of chips is that they don’t have an unlocked multiplier and can’t boost to as high frequencies as their “X” counterparts, so if gaming isn’t your main use then you’re better off with the 7800X (or even the Ryzen 7 7700X, which is roughly 7% faster in multicore tasks). However, in its own right the 7800X3D is a brilliant day-to-day processor, pushing the Destiny to 2,705 and 14,806 in Geekbench 6, 110 and 1,028 in Cinebench 2024, and 1,765 and 17,017 in Cinebench R23 (single-core results first, multicore second).
An overall score of 8,772 in PCMark is also one of the highest I’ve seen, and here I must give due praise to the supporting cast of 32GB DDR5 RAM and a 1TB Adata S70 Blade SSD. The latter is particularly fast, with an astounding 7,476MB/sec sequential reads transfer rate in CrystalDiskMark and a none-too-shoddy 5,461MB/sec result in the writing test.
(Image credit: Future)
If you’re thinking 1TB is too small for your needs, there’s one empty M.2 slot on the AMD TUF Gaming motherboard, while removing the right side of the chassis reveals two mounting spaces for 2.5in SSDs and one 3.5in hard disk caddy. There’s also a rat’s nest of cables, but at least that allows Palicomp to keep the visible side of the Destiny relatively empty. This is mainly for aesthetic reasons, as on-board upgrades are minimal: only one PCI-E x1 slot is accessible.
You can at least add to the memory, with two unimpeded DIMM sockets lying empty despite the size of the air cooler. DeepCool isn’t a name I’m familiar with, and while it does its job well – together with the total of six RGB fans on the front, top and back of this PC – it contributes to a continual hum from the Destiny. It’s by no means annoying (more the kind of hum that you only notice when the PC is switched off) but it’s reflected in the idle power draw of 84W compared to 52W for the CyberPowerPC Infinity.
The Kolink Observatory HF Mesh chassis is basic, but does allow all those RGB lights to shine through and has a handy hinged door to make accessing the innards simple. Palicomp also saves money by choosing a CIT 80 Plus Bronze-rated power supply, rather than a bigger name with better efficiency ratings, but at 700W it won’t hold you back.
The Destiny is designed with 4K gaming in mind(Image credit: Future)
One of Palicomp’s perks is that you can pick from a variety of components at time of purchase, from CPU to GPU to PSU, and you can also upgrade the warranty. I would consider doing this, as it’s one area where this PC falls behind CyberPowerPC – only the first year includes parts, and you have to pay for courier costs. £108 buys three years of C&R cover. You may also be tempted to pay for faster delivery than the standard ten working days, with £75 accelerating that to the next business day.
Overall, the Destiny isn’t as refined a package as the CyberPowerPC opposite, but there’s no arguing with its powerful components, which are all geared towards one thing: making games run fast.
DJI is well-known for their excellent lineup of drones, videography gimbals and actions cams etc, but all these devices have one thing in common. They are all powered by batteries.
And that's where the DJI Power 2000 comes in, letting you charge your DJI drone (amongst other devices) while out in the field. It's not the first from the company, but is it the best portable power station for drone operators? I put it to the test.
FEATURES AT A GLANCE
2048Wh capacity from LiFePO4 batteries
3000W continuous output
4 x AC sockets, 4 x USB-A and 4 x USB-C
0-80% charge in 45minutes
Multiple methods of charging
Fast 10ms response UPS
For drone operators, 30 minutes of flight can equal hours of charging unless they were to buy several expensive, propriety batteries which only have one use, drone power.
DJI may now have the answer for drone operators who not only want to fast charge their drone batteries but other things as well with added flexibility.
Not wanting to miss out on the action, about a year ago DJI brought out their Power 1000 Station. Now they have released the Power 2000 increasing everything for those who need more which we are reviewing with some accessories.
(Image credit: Future)
DJI Power 2000: Packaging
The power station and its accessories were all packaged individually in non-descript, plain cardboard boxes with only simple outlines of the products and what they were printed on the box. No fancy glossy or satin box with listed features, photos, pictures or illustrations.
Removing the Power 2000 from the box, we were given only the quick start guide, certificate of conformity and AC power cable, no other accessories were provided.
(Image credit: Future)
DJI Power 2000: The power station
Once out of the box, the Power 2000 measures 448 × 225 × 324mm or 17.6 x 8.9 x 12.7 inches (L x W x H) and weighing in at 22kg (or 48.5lbs).
The Power 2000 has two large, grippy handles on the top to facilitate portability
All the sockets, plugs, ports etc are at the front of the Power 2000 as is the status screen. The sides and back are bereft of anything much save for some threaded holes which we will come back to later.
At the front of this UK model are the following sockets/plugs:
4 x UK Type G sockets outputting 230V at 50Hz AC pure sine wave
4 x USB-C sockets, 2 x max. 140W and 2 x max 65W
4 x USB-A sockets, each able to output 24W
1 x AC charging socket
2 x SDC multi use sockets
And the status screen
(Image credit: Future)
DJI Power 2000: Charging
Switching on the Power 2000 the first time showed us a state of charge of 51%. We were pleased to see that the AC charging socket was an industry standard C13/14 connector.
But it was here that we stumbled on the first hurdle, the cable has screws on either side to prevent accidental disconnection, but the screws were too small, tool free thumb screws would have been better.
Next to the AC charge socket is a small switch that allows you to set it for fast or slow charge, on slow charge the Power 2000 was charging at 1300W and on fast nearly double that at 2200W.
The AC charging socket at the front wasn’t well received, having reviewed several power stations, they often segregated charge on the side or back and discharging sockets on the front.
Also, to the right of the AC socket is a mysterious multi pin socket, is not documented in any of the manuals or software, our assumption, it’s a terminal used by DJI for servicing.
Charging it using solar panels sent for this review, it was noted that this was a third-party panel made by “IBCPower”. Fortunately, the panel uses MC4 connectors. Using the provided MC4 to XT60 cable means that the panels can be used for other power stations.
Plugging in the panels into the Power 2000 is a nuisance. The panels plug into the provided DJI Solar panel adapter module (MPPT). A small adapter box with three XT60 sockets, this allows you to plug three panels to the Power 2000 via this box which is plugged into the Power 2000’s large SDC sockets to charge it.
With only one 200W panel on a moderately bright day, we were only seeing 180W input with already 89% charged, an estimated 92minutes to full charge. Charging from 0% to 100% using only one panel would likely take over 10 hours.
Mentioned before were the screw holes on the sides and back of the Power 2000. You can see that the MPPT box has screw holes through it and it is here that the MPPT box is screwed on to the side of the Power 2000 to secure it in place so you don’t lose it. Screws and a hex wrench are provided.
(Image credit: Future)
DJI Power 2000: In use
The status screen is your typical affair that shows all the useful information that you will need at glance such as state of charge, input and output wattage. Output voltage and AC Hz, USB as well as Wi-Fi or Bluetooth connections.
Putting the Power 2000 through its paces, using it to power a variety of high draw household devices such as a rice cooker, mini-induction cooker, hair dryer, air fryer. The Power 2000 was able to power all of them separately and remained silent throughout.
Using the USB is about as ubiquitous as it is, it was able to charge a variety of phones, a Lenovo ThinkPad, MacBook Air laptops with ease.
The Power 2000 has a combined output power of 3000W continuous power.
A feature that stood out to us was the Uninterruptable Power Supply or UPS feature, whilst other power stations are capable of this, most advertise a 20 to 30ms response time or require setting up. The response time is the time the power station detects grid outage and switches over to battery.
The Power 2000 boasts a fast 10ms response time. UPS mode is automatically activated when the Power 2000 is plugged into mains, AC is on and power drawn.
We tested this by plugging in a typical home office setup, into the Power 2000 via multiplugs. The setup drew around 200W, we let the set up drain the Power 2000 for about two hours taking it from 89% to 61%.
We then switched the mains on to charge the Power 2000 back to 100%, you can see the UPS logo (small, orange battery with arrows under the “INPUT”) automatically activated and the Power 2000 began charging at 1360W in slow mode.
Once at 100%, we flicked the mains switch again whilst keeping an eye on the setup, not a flicker. The set up carried on as if there were no power outage, the Power 2000 drew power from the batteries and the UPS mode switched off.
(Image credit: Future)
One prominent feature that stands the Power 2000 different to other power stations is the inclusion of two SDC ports on the far upper right.
These are multi use sockets able to charge or discharge from the Power 2000 using DC power, the connectors are essentially QS10 sockets/connectors which are high current anti spark connections.
We were only able to use this to charge the Power 2000 via the afore mentioned MPPT solar adapter box.
The SDC connections would allow a user to plug in add on batteries to the Power 2000 or charge it faster using separately available cables and adapters capable of up to 1800W of input.
The other is to allow fast charging of DJI drone batteries using one of the appropriate adapter cables. It can charge a DJI Mavic 3 series battery from 10% to 95% in about 32minutes. The Mavic 3, Mavic 4, Air 3, Matrice 30, Matrice 4 and Inspire 3 drones, each cable costs £19 at time of review.
Also provided as part of this review is the DJI Power Series Hand Truck.
Essentially a hand trolley with a sculpted foot for the DJI Power Series batteries so that a power station such as the Power 2000 sits nicely at the base. The trolley supports a further two add on batteries to stack on top of the main one with a simple ratchet strap to batten them down.
Also, we mentioned the screws on the back of the Power 2000, these are for the middle handle retaining arm to screw into so that the Power 2000 has at least two points of anchorage to the trolley.
The trolley has 12cm heavy duty rubberised wheels, it can also be folded up for storage but the handle cannot be shortened or extended. The handle height is 98cm high.
(Image credit: Future)
DJI Power 2000: The app
This is one place we think that DJI could vastly improve upon and was one where we had some concerns.
Most brands of power stations such as Jackery or Bluettti have apps that go beyond just simply controlling the power station. They are the place where you access your profile/account for that brand as many have loyalty schemes. It is the app that allows you to access your power stations hidden features, settings to tweak to your liking, even if just once.
The competition, mentioned above, have well translated apps that are downloaded from your app shop of choice, here we used the Google Play Store.
On setting up the Power 2000, we searched the Google Play Store to get the DJI Home app and could not find it. It was then discovered that you have to manually download and install the APK file from the web, not exactly what we like doing as it isn’t as curated as it would be from the Play Store.
On firing it up, the first menu is a DJI Product Improvement Project that gives us the choice to disagree or “加入”? It was in Chinese but we were able to translate this as “Join In”. Not off to a good start.
Detecting the battery and setting up was straight forward but once in the app you can see the Power 2000, see where/what is drawing power, state of charge etc. There are limit options you can tweak.
DJI Power 2000: Pricing
Currently the Power 2000 is on retail in the UK DJI store for £1185
DJI Power 2000: Final verdict
The Power 2000 is a solid power station but needs some improvement here and there.
If you have already invested in one of DJIs above mentioned drones and are in the market for a power station, then the Power 2000 is the one for you. The SDC connectors allows you fast charging of your drone batteries will allow you to fly more for longer.
The UPS feature was among the fastest response and easiest to set up and its near silent operation means that it can happily work silently in your home office too.
However, it is let down by some poor decisions such as the AC charging socket at the front and the woeful app, both in getting it and it being a glorified status screen if anything.
There aren’t many bigger names in online storage than Dropbox, but fewer people know about its Dropbox Passwords product.
It’s been a free offering as part of the wider Dropbox suite since 2021, and it promises to deliver an effective password manager that’s easy to use – ideal for anyone who wants to beef up their security without the tech-heavy language and features you may have to wade through elsewhere.
Dropbox Passwords: Plans and pricing
Dropbox Passwords is free and a part of the wider Dropbox ecosystem – it’s included in the basic tier. With that product a single user gets 2GB of secure storage, the option to connect three devices and the ability to store fifty passwords. Beyond cloud storage and password storage, you get instant syncing, thirty days of file recovery and sharable links. For people who need basic password management and cloud storage, it’s compelling, although other free options like Bitwarden allow unlimited password storage across unlimited devices – albeit without cloud storage.
If you’re willing to pay, though, you get unlimited password storage and unlimited devices in every product tier. The Plus product costs $9.99 / £9 / AUD$15 per month if you pay annually, and it gives a single user 2TB of cloud storage, improved multi-factor authentication and loads of storage and sharing features. The family plan costs $16.99 / £16 / AUD$25 and enables those features for up to six users.
You’ve got more options if you want to use Dropbox in a business environment. The Professional tier delivers 3TB of storage alongside better sharing options. The Standard business product costs $15 / £15 / AUD$24 per user per month. It delivers 5TB of space and a six-month file recovery period. Unlimited space is available in the Advanced tier, which costs $24 / £22 / AUD$35 per user per month and also deploys better security. Enterprise pricing is available on request.
(Image credit: Dropbox)
Dropbox Passwords: Setup
It’s easy to get started with Dropbox Passwords, even for people without much techy knowledge. Sign up for a free Dropbox Basics account and verify your email address and you’ll be right into the browser extension.
The setup process is designed to make password storage as seamless as possible. The app gives users a list of common apps, like Google, Facebook and Amazon, that can be added quickly and easily – so you can start saving passwords immediately. If you want to add your own, a separate window allows you to log your username, password and any notes, and Dropbox Passwords also supports payment cards.
Existing passwords can also be imported from Chrome and Firefox and directly from CSV files that have been exported from other password managers. You can also use Dropbox to create your own password export as a CSV.
Once you’ve saved a password, you can copy the credentials or simply use a link to open the site with the details already filled in. It’s very straightforward. This system works similarly on Dropbox Password’s iOS and Android apps. You’re also invited to create a passphrase to unlock your Passwords app, like the master passwords deployed elsewhere.
(Image credit: Dropbox)
Dropbox Passwords: Interface and performance
More of the features included in Dropbox Passwords are tailored to ease of use. Select a password in the app and a separate window shows you its details and strength rating – but also highlights if it’s been involved in any breaches.
The app’s Security Dashboard is straightforward: one window gives you a big warning if your data has been compromised, and a second window delivers alerts for weak or re-used passwords. You can also choose whether you monitor all of your email addresses or just a selection.
You can share passwords with other people – simply enter their email address and they’ll be invited to log in to their own Dropbox Passwords account. Editing an entry is similarly simple: type in the correct details and click save.
The interface is well-designed, too. It’s spacious, with large buttons, and it’s sensibly designed – the main screen delivers a simple list of passwords, and the Security Dashboard uses two straightforward windows. The settings menu is easy to use, with common options split into four categories and a slick graphic that illustrates how close you are to your storage and device limits. You’re not confronted with overwhelming technical data, so people without loads of tech knowledge won’t be intimidated.
(Image credit: Dropbox)
All of this makes Dropbox Passwords great for anyone who isn’t overly familiar with tech, or people who don’t need to store loads of passwords using a complex bit of software.
However, this simplicity means that Dropbox Passwords misses out on some features. You can add passwords or payment cards on this app, but most others include more categories and templates for saving a wider range of data – and some others also allow you to store more information in each listing, including documents and images, and let users add custom fields.
There’s more platform support elsewhere, too. Dropbox Passwords works on Windows and macOS and it’s got iOS and Android apps – and its browser extension functions in Chrome, Edge, Safari and Firefox. But look elsewhere and you’ll find extensions for a broader range of browsers and apps with Linux support.
Advanced features are absent, too. More import options are commonplace elsewhere, and some free tools even include unlimited cloud storage and optional self-hosting. Dropbox’s password generator allows you to customize the length of your password and opt to use symbols and numbers, but elsewhere you’ll find generators with more versatility, like the option to make passwords pronounceable.
(Image credit: Dropbox)
Dropbox Passwords: Security
Dropbox Passwords might lack high-end functionality, but there’s no quibbling with its security credentials. As with the rest of the Dropbox ecosystem, Passwords are protected with 256-bit AES encryption – a rock-solid industry standard.
SSL and TLS is deployed to protect data when it moves between Dropbox apps and the company’s servers, and the app can lock itself after a period of inactivity. Alongside using your passphrase to sign in, Dropbox Passwords can be unlocked with facial or fingerprint recognition and two-factor authentication. Dropbox is also a zero-knowledge provider, meaning no one at the company can access your data.
This is another area where you’ll certainly find more ability elsewhere, especially if you want high-end security options for organizations.
Dropbox Passwords: Support
Because Dropbox Passwords is included in every Dropbox product, the support on offer varies depending on which tier you’re using.
If you use the free Dropbox Basics product you can access live chat and an email form, and Dropbox also offers a Help Centre with a good selection of articles. There’s a forum, too.
Buy the Plus, Family or Professional plans and you get broadly similar options, although your emails are given priority. But if you upgrade to the Standard, Advanced or Enterprise plans, you get phone support too.
Dropbox Passwords: The competition
If you’d like a free password manager without the cloud storage component then you’d be better off with Bitwarden. It’s our current free favorite, and for good reason – it includes unlimited password storage and optional self-hosting, so it’s instantly a more versatile option than Dropbox.
If you want to upgrade to the paid plans then Dropbox looks more compelling, but we’d still recommend people look towards Dashlane or LastPass for pure password management. Both include broader ranges of password-specific features and both are cheaper than a Dropbox package, albeit without Dropbox’s enviable sharing and cloud storage capabilities.
Dropbox Passwords: Final verdict
Indeed, that’s the crux of the situation for Dropbox. As a free password manager, Dropbox is acceptable, especially if you don’t need advanced features. Combine the free product’s decent password management with 2GB of cloud storage and its robust security protocols and you’ve got a good option for anyone who needs fuss-free storage and password management.
Its paid products are better thanks to a market-leading range of cloud storage and sharing features, and all include Dropbox Passwords – although the price does quickly become steep when compared to pure password management software.
If you want a free password manager, then Dropbox Passwords gets the job done. But only spend cash on the paid tiers if you also want its cloud storage features.
