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Mammotion LUBA 3 AWD 3000 robot lawn mower — autonomous mowing just got exponentially better for owners of larger landscapes

12:00 pm | March 29, 2026

Mammotion LUBA 3 AWD 3000: two-minute review

If you’re in the market for a sterling autonomous plug-and-play robot lawn mower with a wider cutting tract than most, the new Mammotion LUBA 3 AWD 3000 comes wholeheartedly recommended. Available in three different battery capacities, this particular model is designed for large, complex lawns with shaded areas, lumpy terrain and very steep gradients, though it is equally at home on even the most standardised of suburban and rural lawns. However, it would most definitely be considered overkill if used on a small-to-medium urban lawn.

Like its highly-regarded stablemate, the LUBA 2, the new LUBA 3 AWD 3000 requires no boundary wires and no degree in IT to set it up – simply install its charging base, log on to the Mammotion app and it will map the boundaries of your lawn automatically or, if you prefer, manually by steering the robot around your lawn’s permitter like an RC car.

A big upgrade from its stablemate, this new model is now equipped with an impressive Tri-Fusion navigation system combining LiDAR, netRTK positioning over WiFi or 4G, plus AI camera vision to map, mow and avoid obstacles with impressive accuracy — day or night.

Performance is where the LUBA 3 AWD 3000 really impresses. Using its all-wheel drive system and full suspension, this beast can handle slopes with inclines of up to 80% and traverse uneven terrain, roots and edges with impressive confidence. Dual 165W cutting motors and AI-adjusted power, meanwhile, allow it to deal effectively with thick or damp grass, while intelligent route planning minimizes missed patches.

The result is an impressively neat and perfectly striped finish to the lawn that may leave your jaw on the floor. What’s more, because it is equipped with a much wider cutting deck (40cm) than the vast majority of the competition, the beautiful lawn stripes it creates are much more akin to that of a conventional mower.

Mammotion LUBA 3 AWD 3000 robot lawn mower — (Image credit: Future)

Granted, the LUBA 3 is very much in the premium-price band, but then you are getting marine-grade build quality, reliable navigation, excellent obstacle avoidance and consistent cutting performance for your hard earned.

I gave this model’s forebear, the LUBA 2, a full five stars on TechRadar in 2024, mostly because it was head and shoulders above anything else around at the time while being extremely efficient and super reliable. But that was then. Today we have a lot more competition with a veritable slew of extremely efficient wire-free robot mowers from the likes of Segway, Anthbot, Roborock, Ego, Eufy, Terramow and Worx, and that makes it even more difficult to justify a full five-star rating.

Nevertheless, if the earlier LUBA 2 — which I have been using for the past 18 months – is anything to go by, you can safely expect this new model to continue providing a fuss-free autonomous grass cutting service with almost zero babysitting for many years hence.

Mammotion LUBA 3 AWD 3000: price & availability

How much does it cost? £2,399 / $2,399
When is it available? Available in most regions now
Where can you get it? Pre-order in UK; available USA and rest of the world, bar Australia

The Mammotion LUBA 3 AWD series sits firmly in the premium segment of the robot mower market, with UK pricing typically between £2,099 to £2,899 ($2,399 to $3,299) depending on lawn capacity. While this positions it well above entry-level robotic mowers, the price reflects its incredible build quality, advanced navigation system, all-wheel-drive traction and ability to scale steep hills, making it particularly appealing for large, complex garden layouts and even large fields.

Compared with more affordable models, the LUBA 3’s value depends largely on lawn size and complexity. Budget alternatives for smaller lawns like the perimeter wire-free Segway Navimow i2 and Worx Landroid Vision Cloud cost under £700 while Mammotion’s equally-competent LUBA Mini 2 AWD 1000 (which boasts many of its larger sibling’s features, including the ability to climb slopes of up to 80%) also retails at a much more affordable £1,399.

Ultimately, I think that the LUBA 3 AWD 3000 I’m reviewing here is decent value for owners of large, uneven or multi-zone lawns who can fully exploit its advanced autonomy. For smaller gardens, however, many cheaper robot mowers deliver perfectly adequate performance, meaning buyers should carefully consider whether the LUBA 3’s premium technology is truly necessary.

Value score: 4 / 5

Mammotion LUBA 3 AWD 3000: specs

Max lawn size	3000㎡
Navigation	360 LiDAR + NetRTK + Dual-Camera AI Vision
Cutting deck width	40cm (two 6-blade cutting discs)
Cutting height adjustment	25-70mm, motorised
Drivetrain	All-wheel drive
Maximum climbing ability	80% (38.6˚)
Maximum zones	30 zones
Drop-and-mow function	Yes
Obstacle avoidance	360° LiDAR, NetRTK, and dual-camera 1080P AI vision
Connectivity	Wi-fi, Bluetooth & 4G (3 years free data)
Security	GPS tracking + 4G
Noise	70dB
Waterproof	IPX6
Rain sensor	Yes
Mow time per charge	175 mins
Charging time	120 mins
Weight	19kgs
Dimensions	690 x 533 x 279mm
Product code	LUBA 3 AWD 3000

Mammotion LUBA 3 AWD 3000: design

Three-way navigation
Wider-than-average cutting deck
Impeccable fit and finish

Most of the mowbots I review are clad in flimsy shells that bend dramatically as you pick them up. By stark contrast, the F1-inspired LUBA 3 AWD 3000’s beautifully polished white plastic cowling feels inches thick and akin to the hull of a premium speed boat. But it doesn’t stop there because the exposed metal work, too, screams Formula One levels of build quality with high-spec machining and expert fit and finish with zero tolerance between the various components.

In short, every inch of this lawn beast is built to the very highest standards. Hence, this level of build quality doesn’t come cheap and nor does it lack in weight – at a hefty 19kgs, it’s a good job you will only likely need to lift it once to remove it from the box and pop it on its charging plinth.

The LUBA 3 (as I shall call it from now on) is available in three battery-capacity variants for lawn sizes of 1,500㎡, 3,000㎡ for the variant we’re reviewing here, and 5,000㎡. It arrives almost fully assembled in a huge, expertly packed box. In fact, the only thing the user needs to do is remove some protective pieces on the robot — including the cutting deck protector underneath – and screw on the sensor-equipped bumper. Then it’s a case of mounting the charging base on a flat edge of the lawn that’s within range of an outdoor electricity supply. This model comes with a 5m charging cable, which is sadly about half the length of the one that came with the LUBA 2. Nevertheless, you should be able to purchase an extension cable from Mammotion sometime in the near future.

Now that the LUBA 3 is on its base, it’s time to open the Mammotion app, create an account and add the LUBA 3 by following the set of on-screen instructions. Since this model uses Wi-Fi and 4G-based NetRTK for part of its three-way navigation, there is no need to install an RTK antenna. In fact, it doesn’t even come with one though I’m led to believe that an RTK aerial will soon become available for those with poor Wi-Fi and/or 4G reception.

Once you’ve connected the bot to the app, it’s time to map your lawn and this can be performed in two ways — automatically or manually. With auto mapping the LUBA 3 follows the perimeter of any grassy areas until it arrives at its starting point. Voila, map created. In manual mode — my preferred option — you carefully drive the LUBA 3 around the perimeter of the lawn using the app’s virtual joysticks until you arrive where you started.

Once mapped, the only thing you may need to do is add a few no-go zones around any trees, garden furniture or ornaments by steering the robot around them. This task isn’t essential because the LUBA 3’s stupendous navigation system will ensure any obstacles are avoided. However, it’s still good practice to add no-go zones around obstacles so the robot can cut as closely as possible when approaching rather than giving it too wide a berth.

If you have multiple lawns connected by pathways with no obstructions like stairs and gates in the way, you can also program a series of pathways for the robot to follow. Simply select ‘Channel’ in the app’s mapping menu and steer the LUBA 3 from one lawn to the other. You can create up to 30 mowing zones with the LUBA 3 3000 model on review here, 15 with the 1500 version and 50 with the 5000. In essence, when the LUBA 3 has completed its cut on lawn one, it will trundle off down your pre-set path to lawn two, and so on and so forth. If its battery needs a recharge midway through a multi task, the robot will simply head back to its charging station for a top up.

Let’s take a closer look at this amazing mowbot’s main credentials, starting with the cutting deck. Unlike the vast majority of robot mowers that come with a small single 20cm cutting disc, this one ships with two 20cm discs, amounting to a wide 40cm of cutting girth, which is roughly the same as most conventional medium-sized push mowers.

The LUBA 3’s cutting system is comprised of two spinning discs equipped with six razor-like blades on each that cut and mulch grass more cleanly than any conventional rotary mower. Also, unlike standard mowers that only provide their cutting heights in 1cm increments, this model’s motorized cutting deck can be set to cut in 5mm increments (it has a cutting height range of 25-70mm). Oh, and another thing… Since the LUBA 3’s blades are so small and razor sharp, it doesn’t take much power to move them and that in turn means less battery consumption and almost zero noise while they’re working. In fact you could be lying on the sun lounger while the robot’s working a few metres away and you won’t hear a thing — and nor will your neighbors.

Since the LUBA 3 always cuts in a zigzag, up-and-down pattern (at whichever angle you prefer, including a chequerboard effect), the combination of its extra cutting width and extra-wide tyres ensures a swathe of professional-looking lawn stripes. Granted, they’re not the authentic stripes you see at a cricket ground or football pitch – these are made using a large cylinder mower with a roller on the rear – but who’s complaining when they look this ravishingly good? Incidentally, like all good robot mowers, this one is also fitted with a rain sensor, so if it heads out in the rain it will immediately return to its garage (with optional rain hood) and wait a few hours before trying again.

No robot of any kind is of much use if it doesn’t know where it is at any given time. Well the new LUBA 3 has three types of onboard navigation (one more than the LUBA 2) for insane levels of navigation accuracy in even the most shaded areas of a garden.

Firstly, its equipped with GPS RTK navigation that uses satellites to determine the robot’s position to a few centimetres of accuracy (the standard GPS navigation we use for driving is three to 10 metres). However, unlike the first incarnation of the LUBA 2 which shipped with a separate RTK antennae that required a good line of sight to a large number of satellites, this model uses Mammotion’s own NetRTK system which is Wi-Fi or 4G based and therefore immune to satellite access being affected by overhanging trees and buildings. All you need is decent Wi-Fi reception on your lawn for pin-point navigation accuracy.

If you don’t have Wi-Fi on the lawn, you can also use the robot’s built-in 4G capabilities to perform the same function — Mammotion provides a full three years of free 4G service! Oh, and fear not if your lawn area has neither Wi-Fi nor 4G because you can still use this model with a spiked RTK antenna.

The LUBA 3 is also equipped with dual-camera AI vision and an LED headlight, and it uses these as an extra layer of cover when navigating darker areas of a lawn or when the robot encounters obstacles like children, pets, garden toys, furniture and ornaments. You have two levels of obstacle avoidance to choose from: Standard for better cutting efficiency and Sensitive, which may cause the robot to avoid non-grassy areas and even refuse to cross them on the way back to base. If you’re a dog owner, I wouldn’t rely on this model – or most others for that matter – to avoid dog poop because setting that level of sensitivity would likely cause the robot to also avoid every loose leaf on the lawn.

Last but certainly not least, this model also encompasses LiDAR and I can’t tell you what a difference this makes when it comes to mapping, navigation and obstacle avoidance. LiDAR fires lasers off in all directions to map and navigate a 3D work space with uncanny accuracy, even in pitch darkness. Having this level of navigation redundancy on board is a major coup for Mammotion since most other manufacturers tend to focus on just two navigation systems.

This Tri-Fusion Positioning System, as Mammotion calls it, has also allowed the Chinese company to introduce a unique ‘beta’ feature called Drop Mow so you can take it over to someone else’s lawn and have it cut their lawn as efficiently as yours. In terms of security, the LUBA 3 is firmly linked to the user’s account and that alone renders it useless to any thieves. Moreover, it is also equipped with GPS and 4G tracking for extra peace of mind.

Let’s take a good look at the Mammotion LUBA 3 AWD’s traction system. Where most smaller mowbots have two sturdy drive wheels to the rear or front and a smaller castor wheel for steering, the LUBA 3 is all-wheel drive and fitted with suspension. Ostensibly, its wheel system is comprised of a pair of large, robust paddled tyres on the rear and a pair of narrower front wheels equipped with smaller omnidirectional spinners that allow the robot to turn on a sixpence. This setup means the LUBA 3 can ride over very rough terrain, scale roots and small sills without getting into pickle. But more importantly its powerful 4x4 drive system also allows it to scale inclines of up to 80% (38.6°) which is steeper than any conventional lawn mower can safely handle.

Granted, the LUBA 3’s specialised front wheels have been known to occasionally tear up grass in soft-soiled shady areas when using the Zero Turn option but this can be cured to some degree by opting for its slower three-point-turn function instead. I’ve personally had no bald-patch issues but I do know that others have.

However, I should add that the omnidirectional front wheels tend to collect a lot of mud which is unsightly, but thankfully the whole unit is IPX6 rated for protection against high-pressure water spray so you can easily blast off the mud with a hose. Perhaps Mammotion will change the LUBA 3’s front drive mechanism at some point and adopt a system like the forthcoming Segway Navimow X Series, which uses a zero-turn method comprised of two front wheels that swivel 90 degrees when turning.

I’ve been consistently blown away by the high level of build quality and huge amount of design flourishes Mammotion injects into its LUBA series and this model is the best yet. However, I will stress that this robot lawn mower has been intentionally designed for large lawns — and even paddocks and fields — and can therefore be considered overkill if used on an average urban lawn. Thankfully Mammotion also produces a smaller LUBA Mini 2 for diminutive lawns, and you should check it out.

Design score: 4.5 / 5

Mammotion LUBA 3 AWD 3000: performance

Top cutting performance
Creates beautiful lawn stripes
Reassuring reliability

As with its forebear, the LUBA 2, I have no issues to report regarding installation, initial lawn mapping, navigation or cutting performance. I simply set up a series of schedules in the Mammotion app and the LUBA 3 has headed off to mow the lawn while I’ve sat indoors doing other things. And when it has finished leaving its swathe of majestic lawn stripes, it’s followed the perimeter all the way back to its charging base.

Yes, I did use my conventional lawn mower with grass cutting container for the first cut of the season because the LUBA 3, like the vast majority of lawn robots, uses the mulching technique and I didn’t want clumps of cuttings littering the lawn. This is why it’s always best to hang on to your conventional mower.

However, if you program the LUBA 3 to head out every two or three days during spring and summer, it will simply slice off about 2mm of growth at a time and feed the nitrogen-rich cuttings back into the turf, thereby fertilising it as the same time. And without a grass cutting in sight. What’s not to like?

I have always opted for the parallel ‘zigzag’ cutting option in the app, followed by two perimeter laps (you can select up to four perimeter laps and each pass is a little closer to the edge). No, the LUBA 3 — and almost all other bots — won’t cut to the very edge of a wall, fence or solid flower border, but then neither will a conventional lawnmower. Hence you will still need a grass trimmer to hand.

I also tested the LUBA 3’s multi-zone function though this did entail me carrying the unit up some stairs because I’m unable to create a direct pathway to zones two and three. Nevertheless, I was mightily impressed by how well it navigated between the two new zones while sticking rigidly to the borders, and without venturing into the adjacent road. In fact, so successful is this multi-zone system that, were I able to create a series of unobstructed pathways, I could feasibly program the LUBA 3 to leave my garden and head off to maintain our village cemetery and the lawn areas around the church. Proof positive that, were it not for the prospect of theft, most of the new generation of mowbots could feasibly replace a professional gardener with a conventional lawn mower. Sad but true.

In terms of obstacle avoidance, the LUBA 3 is perfectly adept at bypassing any obstacle larger than, say, a ping pong ball. I tested it using the unit’s Standard obstacle avoidance setting and it stopped about three feet away from a stuffed seagull toy before rerouting itself for another pass. I then set it to Sensitive and it deftly avoided a toy dog bone just one inch in height. That’s a resounding pass in my book since, were it any more sensitive, the robot would likely avoid garden leaves and you don’t want that. Swings and roundabouts spring to mind.

My final test was the LUBA 3’s toughest. There’s a children’s playground behind my house and it has a bank so steep and slippery that I can’t get up it without scrabbling on all fours. For this test I opted to manually steer the LUBA 3 up the slope using the app’s virtual controls, half expecting it to fail miserably. But, joy of joys, it scuttled up the slope like one of those V8-powered Formula Off-Road cars you see negotiating near-vertical terrain in a disused quarry. Very impressive indeed.

Granted, some may baulk at the thought of a robot performing a task that they consider enjoyable, and I thought that too the first time I was offered a wireless robot to test. But when I look back at the time and effort I’ve saved to perform other important tasks like lounging in the garden with a G&T, pruning the flowers or simply watching it work — not to say the convenience of having the lawn cut while away from home — I’ve become a complete convert and would now find it hard to live without one.

Performance score: 5 / 5

Mammotion LUBA 3 AWD 3000: Mammotion app

Exceedingly comprehensive
Simple to navigate
Some glitches need ironing out

The accompanying feature-rich Mammotion app is central to getting the best performance from all models in the company’s current line up, and one of its key strengths is the amazing level of customization if offers, whether you’re fettling with it at home or away.

Users can create multiple mowing areas, adjust cutting patterns, height and blade speed, direction and style of travel (zigzag, chessboard effect and angle of cut), even create shapes and words on the lawn. It also offers the wherewithal to set the amount of perimeter laps and whether you want the bot to return to its charging base in a direct route or along the perimeter to avoid spoiling the lawn stripes it has already produced.

Nevertheless, the experience is not flawless. I’ve experienced occasional connectivity issues when away from home or when using Bluetooth on my iPhone 15 Pro, plus a few interface quirks that can make fine-tuning lawn zones more time-consuming than expected. There’s scope for improvement, in other words.

Should you buy the Mammotion LUBA 3 AWD 3000?

Section	Notes	Score
Value for money	The LUBA 3 commands a high price due to its advanced navigation and AWD capability on complex terrain	4/5
Design	Built like a tank and equipped with an accomplished navigation system for a rugged life on larger landscapes	4.5/5
Performance	Powerful, precise and confident performance across a range of large, challenging lawns	5/5
App functionality	Extremely comprehensive but could do with a tweak or two	4/5

Buy it if

You want advanced wire-free navigation

Tri-Fusion positioning combines LiDAR, RTK and AI vision for highly accurate mapping without boundary wires

You want beautiful lawn stripes

This bot cuts in lovely parallel lines

Your lawn is hilly and lumpy

All-wheel drive enables the LUBA 3 to tackle slopes up to 80%, making it ideal for complex or uneven lawns

Don't buy it if

Your lawn is too small

The LUBA 3’s four-wheel traction and wide body are overkill on small lawns.

You don’t want to spend much

Premium pricing makes it hard to justify for small or simple lawns where cheaper robot mowers perform well.

You need a robot with a more gentle turning system

The LUBA 3 has a tendency to scuff up some thinner grasses when turning.

How I tested the Mammotion LUBA 3 AWD 3000

As per usual, I lived with the Mammotion LUBA 3 AWD 3000 for a couple of weeks, watching it work on a scheduled basis and examining the results of its cutting performance. I then put it to a series of manual tests, including obstacle avoidance, multi-zone mowing and a steep hill climb. It has impressed me in all disciplines and continues to do so. Like the LUBA 2 I reviewed in 2024, I see no major issues with this newer model which has been a breeze to use from initial set up to the reliable way it goes about its bi-weekly chores.

I tested the Tower Elite 11-Liter Flexi Drawer Air Fryer — it’s the best bang-for-buck large-capacity air fryer around

1:00 pm | March 28, 2026

Author: admin | Category: Air Fryers Computers Gadgets Home Small Appliances | Tags: Australia, UK, US | Comments: Off

Tower Elite 11-Liter Flexi Drawer Air Fryer: 30-second review

The Tower Elite 11-Liter Flexi Drawer Air Fryer offers up a huge cooking capacity at a price which undercuts pretty much any other serious contender on the market. If you’re looking for capacity and flexibility bang-for-your-buck, look no further.

Is this the best air fryer out there? Not exactly, but for families on a budget it’s hard not to recommend Tower’s large basket machine.

Not only can you cook a whole chicken or pizza in this air fryer, it also comes with a handy divider transforming the single drawer into a dual-basket offering, allowing you to cook separate foods, at different temperatures, for different durations, simultaneously — and it works much better than I expected.

It does have a few key competitors including the premium Ninja Foodi FlexDrawer (with a 10.4L basket), and the almost equally affordable Philips 1000 Series Dual Basket Air Fryer (that only has a 7.1L basket), but with the Tower being the cheapest of the trio you’re looking at a unique proposition.

It’s not perfect. The large basket is heavy when fully loaded and is handwash only, while the controls aren’t overly intuitive, and the cooking presets don’t always deliver the results you want.

There is some trial and error required in the cooking process, but once you’ve got a feel for how it cooks, the Tower Elite 11-Liter Flexi Drawer Air Fryer can deliver delicious food, from cakes, to chicken, to fries.

Tower Elite 11-Liter Flexi Drawer Air Fryer: price and availability

Affordable £119.99 list price, but…
It’s often reduced to sub-£100, great value for such a large capacity
Available in the UK, but not in the US or Australia

The Elite 11-Liter Flexi Drawer Air Fryer price is £119.99, although it is regularly discounted making this large capacity cooker even better value.

At time of writing (March 2026), I’m seeing it available for £99.99 on the Tower website, and £89.10 on Amazon, with similar prices at plenty of other third-party retailers.

That’s considerably cheaper than its main, single-drawer, larger capacity competitor, the Ninja Foodi FlexDrawer, which is twice the price of this Tower.

The Philips 1000 Series Dual Basket Air Fryer is closer in price to the Tower, but still costs more and has a smaller cooking capacity.

The Tower Elite 11 air fryer's list price is equivalent to about $160 / AU$230, but it's not available in the US or Australia.

Value score: 4.5/5

Tower Elite 11-Liter Flexi Drawer Air Fryer: specifications

Review Model	T17200
Number of baskets	1 (plus a divider)
Number of cooking programs	8
Cooking programs	Steak, drumstick, fish, prawn, fries, pizza, bake, dehydrate
Extra functions	Smart Finish, Match Cook
Smart control	No
Wattage	1700W
Capacity	11L
Temperature range	35-200 degrees C
Time range	1-60 minutes (24 hours for dehydrate)
Dimensions (H x W x D)	30.5 x 39.2 x 39.8 cm
Dishwasher-safe	No
Weight	8kg

Tower Elite 11-Liter Flexi Drawer Air Fryer: design

Huge 11-liter basket is great for family meals, and divider provides dual basket flexibility
Controls and overall look don’t compete with premium air fryers, but that’s expected at this price point
Basket can be heavy when fully loaded, and it’s handwash only

With its sizable 11-liter basket the Tower Elite 11 Litre Flexi Drawer Air Fryer is, unsurprisingly, wide (39.2cm) and deep (39.8cm).

It can dominate the worktop in smaller kitchens, but its horizontal design (unlike the vertically tall Philips 4000 Series Stacked Dual Basket or Ninja Double Stack) means height is kept to just 30.5cm, allowing it to sit neatly under wall-mounted units, and slide into cupboards when not in use (assuming they’re wide enough).

Tower Elite 11-Liter Flexi Drawer Air Fryer on kitchen counter — Future

The matte grey finish provides a sleek, modern aesthetic, while the large, glossy black front panel adds a splash of space-age to the look.

It’s smart, without pushing the boundaries of air fryer design, and on closer inspection I found areas where Tower has cut corners to keep the price point at a tempting level.

The buttons and dial felt a little cheap under my finger, with some travel and wiggle to them. Clicks don’t feel smooth, and having used premium Philips and Ninja air fryers recently, the lower quality finish here was even more noticeable.

This isn’t a massive negative though, and it’s to be expected at this price point. Plus, overall the air fryer feels sturdy so I don’t worry about long-term use, as long as you’re relatively gentle with the controls.

The main attraction is the massive 11-liter cooking basket though, which slides into the front of the machine, and there's a reassuring clunk when you correctly interest the basket, letting you know it’s snugly in.

What’s particularly nice is the addition of a removable divider panel which you can slide down the middle of the basket, allowing you to have two separate cooking zones. This gives you the flexibility of a dual drawer air fryer, while also giving you a single larger basket when you want to cook bigger items such as a pizza or a small chicken.

But with great size comes great weight. Fully load the basket, and you’ll find it gets rather heavy. This is especially problematic when cooking has completed and you’re attempting to remove the basket while it’s very hot.

I found that putting a couple of heat mats directly in front of the air fryer and pulling the basket straight out onto them helped alleviate the tricky maneuvring of the larger basket. It takes a bit of getting used to, but once you’ve cooked a few times with the Tower Elite 11-Liter Flexi Drawer Air Fryer, you should be able to find a process that works for you.

Another small frustration is the basket, grill tray and basket divider are handwash only, meaning you can’t just pop them in the dishwasher. The non-stick coating on these parts means grime comes off easily with a bit of elbow grease, but the size of the basket can be awkward to wash in smaller kitchen sinks.

Design score: 4/5

Tower Elite 11-Liter Flexi Drawer Air Fryer: performance

Solid all-round cooking performance, but not always perfect
Basket divider works surprisingly well for dual cooking
Controls not overly intuitive and take time to get used to

The Tower Elite 11-Liter Flexi Drawer, as its name suggests, offers excellent flexibility in its cooking chamber. It comes with a single base plate which sits across the whole drawer, but also a dividing panel you can slide down the middle to create two separate zones.

I was unsure how this one piece of metal in the middle of the drawer would perform at allowing foods to cook at two different temperatures, but to my surprise it works well.

There are two heating elements in this air fryer — left and right — allowing you to set different temperatures and cooking durations for left and right, and that’s exactly what I did with my veg (carrots and broccoli, thanks for asking) and homemade fries.

Cooked vegetables and fries in air fryer drawer — Future

Carrots and broccoli cooked in air fryer — Future

The fries had a much longer cooking time than the veg, and at a higher temperature, but I was able to cook both simultaneously without cremating the vegetables.

I used the vegetable and fries presets for this cook, and while the broccoli cooked well, the carrots and the fries could have done with longer. The carrots were still a little hard, while the fries weren’t as crispy as I would have liked — although they were cooked through.

It’s all part of the trial and error nature of air fryer ownership. It takes time, and several cycles, to understand how types of food cook in a new air fryer, with the details in the instruction manual more of a guide than a hard rule.

I was also able to use the Smart Cook function, where the air fryer will sync the two sides of the drawer to finish at the same time. It’s triggered by selecting the time and temperature for each basket and then pressing the Smart Cook button.

Uncooked pizza in air fryer drawer — Future

The only issue is, there’s no visual cue to tell you the mode has been selected until you press start to set the air fryer going. This led to me realizing once cooking had started that I hadn’t set it up properly.

When properly engaged, the digital display on the side with the shorter cooking time displays ‘HOLD’ (but only once you’ve pressed start) until the other side's cook time decreases and matches, at which point cooking will start for the shorter duration side as well. It’s a useful feature, but one I wish was easier to set up.

The controls aren't the most intuitive either, and I found myself checking the manual a few times during the first few days to remind myself of the order things need to be set. I’ve found the controls on Ninja and Philips air fryers to be more straight forward.

During cooking I found the sides of the air fryer get the hottest, with my temperature probe reading 38 degrees. That’s not as warm as some air fryers I’ve used, which is good news if you have other appliances or items close by.

Chicken cooked in air fryer — (Image credit: Future)

Being able to remove the middle partition means you can fit large items into the 11L basket of the Tower Elite 11-Liter Flexi Drawer. There is space for a whole chicken, or in my case a pizza.

Using the dedicated pizza setting (150 degrees C for 12 minutes), it cooked well on top, and the edges were crispy. However that crisp didn’t extend across the whole base, with the middle still a little doughy. I could have left it in for a few more minutes, but I fear the topping would have burnt.

Sliding the partition back in, the Tower Elite impressed when it came to baking. I made a blueberry loaf which rose wonderfully on one side of the basket, while on the other side my chocolate muffins also baked nicely. The muffins didn’t darken on top as much as I expected, but I can confirm they still tasted great.

With no window on the basket, you’re not able to keep an eye on things while they’re cooking, you have to remove the basket from the air fryer, which pauses the program. This isn’t a surprise considering the affordable nature of the Tower Elite 11 Litre Flexi Drawer, but if you want to see your food while it cooks you’ll need to look at more expensive machines.

I also cooked tempura chicken pieces using the chicken program (200 degrees C for 25 minutes), and these came out with a beautifully crisp batter, while the meat remained succulent on the inside.

The preset programs include a shake reminder, which the air fryer chiming part way through cooking to remind you to shuffle the food in the basket.

Performance score: 4/5

Should you buy the Tower Elite 11-Liter Flexi Drawer Air Fryer?

Tower Elite 11-Liter Flexi Drawer Air Fryer report card
Attribute	Notes	Rating
Value	You’ll be hard pressed to find a better value air fryer with the cooking capacity of the Tower Elite 11 Litre Flexi Drawer.	4.5/5
Design	Functional design where the huge basket is the star attraction, along with its clever divider. The basket can get heavy though, and it’s handwash only.	4/5
Performance	Solid cooking performance across all food types, but you need to perfect cooking time and temps as presets don’t always deliver the results you want.	4/5

Buy it if

You want huge, flexible air fryer capacity

With its 11-liter basket, this is one of the largest capacity air fryers on the market. You can fit a whole pizza or small chicken in here, while the included divider instantly transforms this into a dual-basket air fryer allowing you to cook two separate items simultaneously.

You’re a family on a budget

The Tower Elite 11-Liter Flexi Drawer proves you don’t have to drop hundreds on an air fryer, with this machine offering incredible bang-for-buck in terms of size and cooking flexibility.

You want to get baking

I was particularly impressed by the blueberry loaf and chocolate muffins I cooked simultaneously in this air fryer, so for any budding bakers this is worth considering.

Don’t buy it if

Washing up isn’t your thing

The basket, grill tray and divider are all handwash only, and with the former’s size it can be tricky to handle in smaller sinks.

Heavy lifting is difficult for you

When the basket is fully loaded and comes out hot after cooking, it’s heavy and unwieldy to move about. If you’re concerned about comfortably lifting it, consider a dual-basket air fryer instead.

You rely on the preset programs

While presets are a nice starting point, you’ll need to experiment with times and temperatures to get the perfect cook for various foods. If you don’t have time (or the inclination) for trial and error, look at alternatives.

Tower Elite 11-Liter Flexi Drawer Air Fryer: also consider

Ninja Foodi FlexDrawer

Another one of the larger capacity options on the market (with a 10.4L basket), the Ninja Foodi FlexDrawer is easier to use and cooks slightly better, but it’s also more expensive.

For more information, check out our full Ninja Foodi FlexDrawer review

Philips 1000 Series Dual Basket Air Fryer

A bigger single basket than your traditional air fryer, the Philips 1000 series is smaller at 7.1L and a touch more expensive than the Tower, but has clearer controls and takes up slightly less space.

For more information, check out our full Philips 1000 Series Dual Basket Air Fryer review

How I tested the Tower Elite 11-Liter Flexi Drawer Air Fryer

I used the Tower Elite 11 Litre Flexi Drawer for two weeks at home in my kitchen
I cooked a wide variety of food with it, including chicken, pizza, fries, cakes and vegetables
I tested the different cooking functions, and the cleaning process

I used the Tower Elite 11 Litre Flexi Drawer for two weeks at home, where I cooked a wide variety of food and meals.

From crispy tempura chicken, homemade and frozen fries, and various vegetables, to baking loafs and muffins, as well as an entire pizza, I ensured this air fryer was put through its paces.

I cooked using the whole basket, just one side with the divider in place, and on both sides, at different temperatures and durations, to experience the full versatility on offer. I tried out a number of the preset cooking options, as well as experimenting with my own settings to improve results.

I even slipped on a pair of marigolds to handwash the basket, tray and divider, as these are not dishwasher safe.

I tested the Ninja Power Duo Immersion Blender — a quick and effective tool that can tackle just about any ingredient

5:00 pm | March 22, 2026

Author: admin | Category: Computers Gadgets Home Juicers & Blenders Small Appliances | Comments: Off

Ninja Power Duo Immersion Blender with Whisk: one-minute review

The Ninja Power Duo Immersion Blender with Whisk does just what you'd expect, based on the name. The device comes with two different attachments, one for blending and one for whisking. The attachments are easy and intuitive to swap out. You can use the provided container or use just about any pot, bowl, or container you'd like. Make your favorite sauces, smoothies, whipped food, and more. The Ninja Power Duo Immersion Blender with Whisk offers three power levels.

Working with an immersion blender is a bit different from a standing blender; you need a bit of coordination to get everything blended properly. You need to hold down the power button as you blend, use an up and down motion, and use another finger to toggle the speed up or down. I ended up with some tiny ice shards in some of my smoothies, but further blending probably would have taken care of that.

Cleanup couldn't be easier. The motor/handle can be wiped down with a damp cloth if needed. All other parts can be popped into the dishwasher (top rack) or hand-washed with warm soapy water. All of the parts are light and easy to stash away, freeing up valuable counter space for other appliances.

Ninja Power Duo Immersion Blender with Whisk: price and availability

List price: $79.99 (about £60 / AU$113)
Widely available online and in stores

The Ninja Power Duo Immersion Blender with Whisk can be found at many major retailers across the US, both online and in stores. You can purchase it at Ninja's own website or at Walmart, Target, Macy's, Amazon, and many more. There are two color options: Dark Gray, which you can see in my photos, and Deep Navy. Additional accessories available for purchase include a 3-cup Power Chopper and 4-cup Blending Pitcher.

Value score: 4.5/5

Ninja Power Duo Immersion Blender with Whisk: specifications

Price	$79.99
Power levels	Low, medium, and high
Parts included	Power base, whisk attachment, blender attachment, 3-cup blending container and lid
Container material	Plastic
Additional accessories available	3-cup Power Chopper and 4-cup Blending Pitcher
Color options	Deep Navy and Dark Gray (as seen in my photos)

Ninja Power Duo Immersion Blender with Whisk: design and features

Use provided container or just about any other
Three blending speeds
750-watt motor

The clever design of the Ninja Power Duo Immersion Blender with Whisk allows it to be used in a lot of different situations. From blending sauce on the stove to cottage cheese in its own container or whisking egg whites in a shallow bowl, this appliance offers a lot of flexibility. The provided 3-cup plastic container is handy and even has a lid for storing leftovers. The blending blade is surrounded by a splatter shield to minimize mess as you blend.

Other thoughtful touches include the ease with which you can swap out the blending blade and whisk. All parts that contact food are designed to be dishwasher-safe, which makes cleanup super easy. They can also be easily hand-washed if you prefer.

The power button must be held down as you use the device, which takes a bit of coordination, especially if you change speeds while blending. It does take some getting used to, but I can't fault Ninja for that choice: it is clearly a safety feature.

Ninja Power Duo Immersion Blender with Whisk in action — (Image credit: Karen Freeman / Future)

Design score: 5/5

Ninja Power Duo Immersion Blender with Whisk: performance

I tested the Ninja Power Duo Immersion Blender with Whisk on a number of different foods. I blended pasta sauce, hummus, smoothies, frozen yogurt, and cottage cheese. I whisked egg whites. It handled everything well without excessive mess or noise.

I made some pasta sauce from canned whole tomatoes. I placed the immersion blender directly into the pot on the stove. In less than a minute, the tomatoes were blended into a smooth puree. I was a little nervous that I'd end up with sauce all over my stove, but that was not the case at all.

I made two different smoothies, one with frozen cherries, almond milk, and yogurt and another with frozen mangoes and fruit juice. Both came out smooth and delicious.

Ninja Power Duo Immersion Blender with Whisk making smoothies — Karen Freeman / Future

I also made some different "frozen yogurts," which are similar to smoothies but with frozen fruit, ice, yogurt, and no liquid, so they are a bit more challenging for blenders. I made a banana-peanut butter flavor, banana-chocolate, and cherry. The banana versions also included some hemp seeds and protein powder. All of the seeds and powders blended up smoothly. I did get the occasional ice shard; I probably could have taken more time to be sure I blended every inch.

I blended the cherry one directly in the yogurt container (which only had about a half-cup of yogurt left at the bottom.) I just added frozen cherries and blended for a super-simple and healthy dessert.

Ninja Power Duo Immersion Blender with Whisk making frozen yogurts — Karen Freeman / Future

I had about half a container of cottage cheese and I blended it right in the container. Just a few seconds turned the curds into a smoother texture, which I later used to make a chia pudding.

Ninja Power Duo Immersion Blender with Whisk, blended cottage cheese right in the container — Karen Freeman / Future

I made an ultra-simple hummus with ingredients I had on hand: a can of chickpeas (rinsed and drained), lemon juice, olive oil, cumin, garlic, and salt. It actually came out delicious, though I suspect that the addition of tahini would have made it even better and smoother.

Ninja Power Duo Immersion Blender with Whisk making hummus — Karen Freeman / Future

I've never actually whipped egg whites before, but the whisk attachment made it super easy. The pictures below speak better than words. It was kind of magic.

Ninja Power Duo Immersion Blender with Whisk whisking egg whites — Karen Freeman / Future

Performance score: 4.5/5

Should you buy the Ninja Power Duo Immersion Blender with Whisk?

Ninja Power Duo Immersion Blender with Whisk report card
Attributes	Notes	Rating
Value	You can't call it cheap, but it does a good job for the price.	4.5/5
Design	It's well-designed to do its job; cleanup and storage are super easy.	5/5
Performance	It does a thorough job both blending and whisking. Even immsersing it in small containers, I rarely made a mess.	4.5/5
Overall	It's smallish but mighty!	4.5/5

Buy it if

You need a compact, hand-held blender powerful enough to crush ice

Don't let the size fool you, this immersion blender makes quick work of smoothies, sauces, and more. It might miss a few bits of ice here and there (though maybe that's my impatience talking) but overall, it does the job.

You want cleanup to be easy

All of the parts that contact food can be popped into the dishwasher or quickly hand-washed.

You want a powerful whisk, too

Easily swap out the immersion blender arm for a whisk and you've got yourself a power whisk for frothing up eggs, cream, and more.

Don't buy it if

You want gravity to do the work

This is an immersion blender, so you'll need to hold down the power button as you move the blender up and down. Toggling between low, medium, and high speeds while you're doing that takes some coordination.

You need a higher-power blender

At 750 watts, it should be powerful enough for most things, but you may find it lacking if you want ultra-smooth and silky smoothies.

You want to purchase just one blender-type appliance

If you plan to have just one blender in your kitchen, this might not cover all of your blending needs. You might prefer a standing blender or one that comes with more attachments.

Ninja Power Duo Immersion Blender with Whisk: also consider

If the Ninja Power Duo Immersion Blender with Whisk isn't exactly what you're looking for, you might consider the following:

Vitamix A3500

I've made space on my counter for a powerful Vitamix for well over a decade. It's the ultimate for ultra-smooth smoothies and more.

Read our review of the Vitamix A3500

Breville the All in One

If you want even more than what the Ninja Power Duo Immersion Blender with Whisk has to offer, add a food processor and you'll have an idea of what the Breville All in One has to offer.

Check out our review of the Breville the All in OneView Deal

How I tested the Ninja Power Duo Immersion Blender with Whisk

I tested both attachments and all three power levels
I made a variety of beverages and foods
I cleaned it after every use, both by hand and in the dishwasher

I blended pasta sauce that started with a can of whole tomatoes. I made a simple hummus with a drained and rinsed can of chickpeas, lemon juice, olive oil, garlic, and spices. I made several different kinds of smoothies and frozen yogurt with ice and/or frozen fruit, some of which included powders and seeds. I blended cottage cheese, right in its container. I whisked egg whites until they formed peaks.

Philips 4000 Series Stacked Dual Basket Air Fryer: 30-second review

The Philips 4000 Series Stacked Dual Basket Air Fryer is an accomplished, premium air fryer which provides solid cooking performance in a space-saving design.

It finds itself in a currently small sub-market of air fryers, with only a handful of rivals also offering the dual-stack baskets on offer here. The leader, and our current best air fryer, is the similarly priced Ninja Double Stack XL.

Both of these models offer a large cooking capacity (across two baskets), without the wider footprint you get with the traditional, side-by-side baskets design.

Philips 4000 Series Airfryer on kitchen counter — (Image credit: Future)

The Philips beats the Ninja in a couple of key ways. First up, its baskets have windows and a light, allowing you to keep an eye on the food you’re cooking without having to open the basket to check.

Secondly, the controls on the Philips 4000 Series are easier to see, and more intuitive to use, taking the hassle out of working out functions, temperatures and cooking times.

What’s not quite as good though are the quick start instructions when you take the air fryer out of the box for the first time, and the full manual is only accessible via a smartphone app.

Philips 4000 Series Airfryer on kitchen counter with bottom drawer open — (Image credit: Future)

It’s also only available in one colorway; black and gold. It’s a bold choice and it does look smart — although it won’t be to everyone’s taste, nor will it sit as well in traditionally-styled kitchens.

Cooking performance is solid though, and it was able to handle the various meat, vegetables and sweet treats I threw at it.

For those looking for a stylish, statement air fryer that also delivers versatility and practicality, and are willing to pay a bit more for the privilege, I would recommend the Philips 4000 Series.

Philips 4000 Series Stacked Dual Basket Air Fryer: price and availability

£269.99 / AU$449 list price makes it one of the most expensive air fryers
But it’s regularly discounted by around £100 / AU$100
Available in the UK and Australia, but not in the US

With a list price of £269.99 / AU$449 (about $360), the Philips 4000 Series Dual Stack is one of the most expensive air fryers on the market, but do keep an eye out for discounts.

I've seen it reduced to £169.99 at Amazon UK, Currys and John Lewis in the past, and AU$349 at Amazon Australia, making this double drawer air fryer a far more tempting proposition for families looking for a large capacity cooker.

That’s the same list price as the excellent Ninja Double Stack XL which we gave five stars to, but considerably more expensive than the £149.99 Tower Vortx XL Dual Stack.

This model is available in Europe and Australia, but is not on sale in the US.

Value score: 4/5

Philips 4000 Series Stacked Dual Basket Air Fryer: specifications

Review Model	NA462/79
Number of baskets	2
Number of cooking programs	6
Cooking programs	Frozen potato based snacks, steak, fish, vegetables, chicken, reheat
Extra functions	Shake reminder
Smart control	No
Wattage	2750W
Capacity	10L
Temperature range	40-200 degrees C
Time range	1-60 minutes
Dimensions (H x W x D)	15.7 x 9 x 18.5 inches / 40 x 23 x 47cm
Dishwasher-safe	Yes
Weight	20lbs / 9.1kg

Philips 4000 Series Stacked Dual Basket Air Fryer: design

Vertically stacked baskets offers space-efficient design
Premium build with a bold black and gold finish
Clear, intuitive controls, although touch-sensitive panel won’t be for everyone

Ninja laid the foundations for the double stack air fryer back in 2024, and it’s no surprise other manufacturers have jumped on the trend, offering large cooking capacity with a narrower, space-saving footprint.

The Philips 4000 Series Stacked Dual Basket brings a premium black and gold aesthetic to challenge Ninja’s market-leading air fryer. It’s a striking look, and one that might divide opinion. It’ll look great in a modern kitchen that uses one of the two colors. With my white countertops and blue cabinets, it certainly stands out on the work surface. The glossy, reflective front of the fryer is also a bit of a dust- and fingerprint-magnet, and needs regular wiping to keep it looking fresh.

I was pleased to see both 5L baskets and their base plates were dishwasher safe, making cleaning up after cooking much easier (although the handles of the baskets do collect water). A damp cloth is all that’s needed for the exterior of the machine, and a soft brush to gently clean the heating element.

Philips 4000 Series Airfryer with both baskets removed — Future

Philips 4000 Series Airfryer with person's hand opening bottom drawer — Future

Another nice touch, and something the Ninja doesn’t provide, is a cooking window on each basket, and an interior light, allowing you to keep an eye on the food inside. I much prefer air fryers with windows, as it helps me gauge when I need to shake or turn food.

It’s especially useful to see what’s going on without opening the baskets and pausing the cooking when you're first getting used to new air fryer, and starting to understand cooking times. It’s not an exact science and each air fryer is different, so the windows are a great visual aid.

There aren’t any accessories included in the box, unlike the Ninja Double Stack, which comes with a pair of stainless steel racks, doubling the usable space in its baskets.

You’ll want to be mindful of what food you’re cooking too, as both baskets have holes on their rear wall for air circulation. That means anything particularly wet could ooze out of the back and into the machine.

Philips 4000 Series Airfryer control panel — Future

What didn’t impress was the setup instructions, or lack thereof. You get an IKEA-style, printed pictorial guide in the box that covers the absolute bare minimum, but stops short of providing any explanations, details or cooking tips. Even IKEA instructions are better than these.

For the full details you are forced to download Philips’ free HomeID app, where you can register your air fryer and then access the full manual, along with cooking guides and recipes. The tips and tricks articles, along with the recipes are nicely presented and easy to follow.

It’s disappointing the same care hasn’t been given to the manual, which is just a PDF file requiring much scrolling and zooming on a phone to be able to read it. A printed copy would be far more useful, or even a digitized version with page-turning and a search feature.

Philips 4000 Series Airfryer side vents — (Image credit: Future)

A quirk of this particular air fryer design sees the air exhaust located on the left of the appliance, and you are warned not to position this side of the air fryer within six inches / 15cm of a wall to prevent overheating, or close to any food products. You’ll need to have a quick think about where you’ll be placing the Philips 4000 Series before committing to the purchase.

Thankfully, once plugged in the air fryer is easy to use. The touch-sensitive controls come to life with rear illumination on the large, glossy black section above the baskets. The layout and labelling are clear, making for an intuitive experience — unlike some air fryers I’ve used where the buttons aren’t always so self explanatory.

Design score: 4.5/5

Philips 4000 Series Stacked Dual Basket Air Fryer: performance

Sync and copy functions make using both baskets together easier
Six preset cooking programs, but temperature and time can easily be adjusted

The Philips 4000 Series Stacked Dual Basket Air Fryer does well to provide a premium cooking experience.

You get six preset modes — frozen potato-based snacks, steak, fish, vegetables, chicken, and reheat — which give you a set time and temperature. You can fine tune these, and you'll probably find yourself adjusting these the more you use the air fryer and get an understanding of how long, and at what temperature, different foods require.

Copy and sync are both handy functions. Copy allows you to match the temperature and time settings for one basket, to the other. This saves you having to go through the setup process a second time, and it’s a handy time-saver if you’re cooking an extra large portion of fries for the whole family.

Uncooked fries inside Philips 4000 Series Airfryer — Future

Fries cooking inside Philips 4000 Series Airfryer — Future

Sync is my personal favorite though, allowing me to set each basket to a different duration and temperature, but have them both finish at the same time. It’s easy to set up, and works very well.

There’s a shake reminder too, which has the machine beep during through cooking to have you slide out a basket and give the contents a toss to ensure even frying. For longer cook times, you’ll get multiple shake reminders. You can turn off this reminder though, which is useful when you’re using the air fryer for baking.

Another nice touch is the fact Philips says you don’t need to preheat the air fryer, meaning you can toss food into the baskets right away and get cooking.

Uncooked muffins in Philips 4000 Series Airfryer drawer — Future

Cooked muffins in Philips 4000 Series Airfryer drawer — Future

Using the frozen potato-based snacks program, I loaded a basket with 18oz / 500g and set it going, at 390 Fahrenheit / 200 Celsius for 26 minutes. I was prompted to shake the basket twice, with 13 and seven minutes remaining.

The fries cooked well enough, with a crispy exterior and fluffy middle, but they didn’t brown as much as I’d like. Adding a few more minutes to the cooking time will get you a darker color and crispier finish.

I also tried cooking fresh fries in the air fryer. The manual (accessible via the app) suggests chopping potatoes into fries and then soaking them in water for 10 minutes. Once I had gently patted the excess water from the fries I added a splash of oil and popped them into the basket.

Uncooked cake inside Philips 4000 Series Airfryer drawer — Future

Cake cooked using Philips 4000 Series Airfryer in drawer — Future

Results were similar to the frozen fries — they could have done with a few more minutes to gain color and extra crispiness, but they cooked well overall.

I was impressed with the baking prowess of the Philips 4000 Series as I used both baskets to cook chocolate muffins and a blueberry loaf simultaneously. Both bakes rose nicely, and produced a bouncy sponge.

Similarly to the fries, the muffins stayed quite light in color, as they missed the darkening you’d get in a conventional oven.

I put the dual-basket setup to the test once again when I cooked sausages and vegetables, which needed different cook durations. Thankfully, the time sync feature worked well here, with both baskets completing cooking at the same time, allowing me to focus on the mash and gravy.

Uncooked sausages in Philips 4000 Series Airfryer drawer — Future

Broccoli, carrots, and sausages cooked using Philips 4000 Series Airfryer on plate — Future

The sausages were evenly cooked, while the broccoli had a delightful crunch to it. I par-boiled the carrots for a few minutes before adding them to the basket with the broccoli, to allow them to cook at the same rate.

A quick word of warning, the top of the Philips 4000 Series gets the warmest while cooking, and I measured temperatures of over 140 Fahrenheit / 60 Celsius during operation. Make sure you don’t leave anything sitting on top of the air fryer, and for those of you who have low-hanging wall units in your kitchen, be mindful of having enough space between them and the top of this air fryer.

Performance score: 4.5/5

Should you buy the Philips 4000 Series Stacked Dual Basket Air Fryer?

Philips 4000 Series Stacked Dual Basket Air Fryer report card
Attribute	Notes	Rating
Value	It’s one of the most expensive on the market, but you get a premium air fryer with a space-saving design and slick looks.	4/5
Design	This is an air fryer that makes a statement and looks the part on the counter top. Plus, its stacked baskets means it takes up less valuable prep space.	4.5/5
Performance	Performance across cooking programs is solid, though you will need to experiment to get optimal results for some foods.	4.5/5

Buy it if

You want capacity, but don’t have much workspace

The clever stacked design of this Philips 4000 Series air fryer means it takes up less counter space than most of its rivals, leaving you more room for prep and plating.

You want a stylish air fryer

The Philips 4000 Series has a bold design. The black and gold finish might not be to everyone’s taste, but it makes a statement and looks good on the countertop..

You want to keep an eye on your food

I love the basket windows and lights here, as they let you keep track of how your food is getting on without interrupting the process by pulling out a basket.

Don’t buy it if

You want to cook large items

While the overall capacity of the Philips 4000 Series Stacked Dual Basket Air Fryer is 10L, it’s split into two 5L baskets. That makes it great for cooking two different foods simultaneously, but you’re not fitting a whole chicken or a pizza into this air fryer.View Deal

You’re after an affordable air fryer

This is one of the most expensive air fryers on the market, and while it has the premium looks and clever stacked design, its cooking performance isn’t light years ahead of more affordable models.View Deal

You prefer paper manuals

The fact the bundled quick start guide is a poorly implemented IKEA knock-off doesn’t get things off to a great start, with a phone app required to access the full manual.View Deal

Philips 4000 Series Stacked Dual Basket Air Fryer: also consider

Ninja Double Stack XL

While the Ninja doesn’t have basket windows, its sleek matt design, additional Max Crisp feature, and bundled cooking racks to increase cooking surface in the baskets means it’s still the best stacked air fryer around.

For more information, check out our full Ninja Double Stack XL review

Russell Hobbs Satisfry Dual Basket Air Fryer

If you like the idea of two baskets and have the counter space for a side-by-side design, this Russell Hobbs air fryer outperforms more expensive premium competitors with ease.

For more information, check out our full Russell Hobbs Satisfry Dual Basket Air Fryer review

How I tested the Philips 4000 Series Stacked Dual Basket Air Fryer

I used the Philips 4000 Series for two weeks at home in my kitchen
I cooked a wide variety of food with it, including fries, cakes, vegetables and meat
I tested the different cooking functions, and the cleaning process

I spent two weeks using the Philips 4000 Series at home to cook a variety of food. I tried out the preset programs, and also freestyle the settings from time to time.

I air fried meat, baked cakes, and roasted vegetables during my testing, and used a temperature probe to record how hot the exterior of the machine got during use. I evaluated how each food item cooked in the two baskets, and assessed how the finished results were to eat.

I also followed the setup instructions and cleaning process, to understand how easy the machine is to get going and maintain. For more details, see how we test, review, and rate products on TechRadar.

I tested the tiny Russell Hobbs coffee maker that uses grounds or Nespresso pods — but I discovered one infuriating drawback

1:00 am | March 15, 2026

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

Russell Hobbs Everyday Espresso Machine: one-minute review

The Russell Hobbs Everyday Espresso Machine is an entry-level coffee maker with an unusual twist: in addition to a regular portafilter for ground coffee, it comes with a holder for Nespresso Original style coffee capsules. A handy option if you’re making the switch from pods to fresh beans, or sharing a kitchen with someone who prefers a different brewing method.

It’s very cheap too, with a list price of just £149.99 / AU$189.95 (about $200). For comparison, my two top-rated budget coffee makers, the De’Longhi Dedica Duo, and Philips Baristina, are $299.95 / £279.99 (about AU$600) and $449.99 / £299.99 / AU$599. respectively.

At that price it’s no surprise that the Everyday Espresso Machine is made almost entirely from plastic, but it still looks smart on your kitchen counter with its silver and matt black finish, and guests won’t guess how little you spent.

The budget price is reflected in the accessories though, which are quite bare-bones. In addition to the two portafilters, you get just two filter baskets, a lightweight scoop/tamper combo, and a pin tool for clearing the steam wand. There’s no milk pitcher, water filter, or water hardness testing strip included in the box.

Russell Hobbs Everyday Espresso Machine portafilter basket full of ground coffee — The Russell Hobbs Everyday Espresso Machine accepts both ground coffee and capsules (Image credit: Future)

What really matters is performance, and I was pleased to find that the Everyday Espresso Machine could brew a decent shot with fresh coffee once I’d identified the best grind size, and extraction was consistent. However, I found I had to grind my coffee much coarser than I would usually to avoid under-extraction, and the puck of coffee grounds was always quite wet at the end, which suggests that although the pressure was lower than optimal.

Brewing with coffee capsules was easy, but again, it was a soggier experience than I’d like, and the used pod ended up sitting in a puddle in the portafilter after brewing.

The steam wand is the real problem, though. It feels flimsy, wobbling as you move it into position, and its lower section is too short, making it hard to submerge in your milk pitcher. Worst of all, it has an air intake hole that creates so much foam, I had to stop steaming my milk while it was still cold to prevent the jug overflowing. The large bubbles aren’t fine or stable enough for a latte, which is a shame when you’ve just brewed a perfectly good shot of espresso.

If you take your coffee black and want to shift between pods and grounds, this might be a good option for you. Otherwise though, I’d recommend saving up a little more cash and opting for the much more solidly-made De’Longhi Dedica Duo instead.

Russell Hobbs Everyday Espresso Machine: price and availability

Available in the UK and Australia for £149.99 / AU$189.95
Not currently sold in the US
One of the cheapest espresso machines I've tested

The Russell Hobbs Everyday Espresso Machine is available in the UK direct from Russell Hobbs for £149.99 (about $200). It’s known as the Russell Hobbs Heaton Espresso Machine in Australia, where it retails for AU$189.95. It’s not sold in the US at the time of writing.

It’s one of the most affordable coffee makers I’ve tested here at TechRadar, and even cheaper than my favorite budget espresso machine, the De’Longhi Dedica Duo, which has a list price of $299.95 / £279.99 (about AU$600).

Value score: 4/5

Russell Hobbs Everyday Espresso Machine: specifications

Name	Russell Hobbs Everyday Espresso Machine
Type	Manual espresso machine (ground coffee and pods)
Weight	6lbs / 2.74kg
Water reservoir capacity	1.58 quarts / 1.5 liters
Milk frother	Manual steam wand
User profiles	None

Russell Hobbs Everyday Espresso Machine: design

Accepts ground coffee and Nespresso Original capsules
Steam wand is disappointing
Plastic components have a strong odor

The Russell Hobbs Everyday Espresso Machine is compact, and exceptionally lightweight. Upon weighing it, I found that the whole unit is just 6lbs / 2.74kg, including the plug and water tank, which could be a real advantage if you need a coffee maker you can tuck away in a cupboard between uses.

The Everyday Espresso Machine’s exterior is entirely plastic except for the drip tray and steam wand, but as you can see from the photos here, it doesn’t look cheap, and the silver-colored panels on the front give a convincing look of brushed steel.

Russell Hobbs Everyday Espresso Machine with water tank removed — The water tank has a robust handle for easy carrying, though it can only be used when the hinged lid is open (Image credit: Future)

It does, however, have a noticeable plastic odor when new. The instructions running the machine without any coffee to rinse it before making your first drink, but I'd actually suggest doing this a few times to wash away any taste (and flushing the steam wand thoroughly as well to avoid tainting your milk).

As with all coffee makers, you should wash the water tank, portafilters and baskets before use. These are safe to hand-wash with soapy water, and the tank has a reassuringly solid-feeling handle for easy carrying, which is a welcome touch.

The Everyday Espresso Machine comes with two portafilters: one for ground coffee and one for Nespresso Original style coffee capsules. The one for capsules has a conical insert, which holds the coffee pod and pierces the bottom when pressure is applied so water can penetrate.

Person placing Nespresso capsule in Russell Hobbs Everyday Espresso Machine holder — The attachment for coffee capsules contains small spikes that pierce the pod when the machine applies pressure. (Image credit: Future)

There are just two filter baskets for ground coffee (single and double shot size). Both of these are pressurized, which makes sense for a beginner-level machine because they're more forgiving than single-walled baskets if your grind isn't perfect.

You get a double-ended tamper/coffee scoop, which is standard issue for a budget espresso machine. It doesn't feel very satisfying to hold, and it's not as easy to use as a more solid tamper with a smooth metal finish, but it gets the job done.

The Everyday Espresso Machine's steam wand pivots out from the left-hand side of the machine, and is controlled using a large, tactile dial. Unfortunately, during testing I found that the bottom part of the wand was too short, meaning it couldn’t reach far enough down into my milk pitcher.

Accessories supplied with Russell Hobbs Everyday Espresso Machine — There's a small collection of accessories, including a plastic tamper/scoop, and two pressurized filter baskets (Image credit: Future)

The wand also has a pinhole in the side, which is intended to create extra foam when you steam your milk. Unfortunately,during my tests I found it created lots of very large bubbles, and made it impossible to create smooth, pourable microfoam. In fact, it created so much foam, I had to stop steaming before my milk was hot to avoid it overflowing.

Design score: 3/5

Russell Hobbs Everyday Espresso Machine: performance

Consistent results when grinder is dialled in
Water pressure seems to be lower than usual
Doesn't heat or foam milk properly

The Everyday Espresso Machine is simple to use, with just two brew buttons, but unlike most espresso machines, these don’t correlate to a single or double shot. Instead, the first button brews a double shot, and the second a quad (intended to be divided between two cups). The drink volume is customizable, but it's something to be aware of.

The machine heats quickly, though the cup-warmer on top isn't very practical. Like the rest of the machine's chassis, it's made from insulating plastic, so it'll barely be warm even half an hour after the machine has come to temperatures.

I was pleased to find that, although some components feel flimsy, the Everyday Espresso Machine does feel more robust than the Casabrews 5418 Pro. The filter baskets fit into the portafilter handle properly without feeling loose, and the handle locks nicely into place.

My first few shots of espresso pulled very slowly, and I found that I had to grind my coffee much more coarsely than usual to get good results. The puck of ground coffee was still quite wet once I'd finished brewing, which suggests that the pressure was low, but once I'd found the best size, the results were consistent.

Russell Hobbs Everyday Espresso Machine dispensing espresso — Once you've dialled in your grinder, you should be able to achieve consistently well extracted shotsFuture

Espresso made using Russell Hobbs Everyday Espresso Machine — Once you've dialled in your grinder, you should be able to achieve consistently well extracted shotsFuture

Brewing with a Nespresso capsule is straightforward; just place it in the conical holder provided, put the holder in the portafilter handle, and carry on as though you were using coffee grounds. The process is quick and easy, but messier than using a standard Nespresso machine. Usually brewing with pods is a neat process, but the Everyday Espresso Machine leaves water in the portafilter that tends to spill when you release the handle.

If you’re only really interested in brewing from capsules, I’d recommend picking a simple dedicated Nespresso machine instead. The Nespresso Vertuo Pop (for Nespresso Vertuo pods) or the Nespresso Pixie (for Nespresso Original capsules) are both affordable options.

Wet coffee pod filter basket for Russell Hobbs Everyday Espresso Machine — Brewing with a coffee capsule is surprisingly messy, and I found the portafilter always ended up full of water after brewing. (Image credit: Future)

For me, though, the steam wand is the weakest point. As mentioned previously, this is an espresso machine with a dairy intolerance; it incorporates too much air into the milk, so you have to stop steaming before it’s sufficiently heated, and it’s too short to use comfortably. The heat-resistant silicone handle is a nice addition, but the whole wand wobbles when you move it.

Russell Hobbs Everyday Espresso Machine steaming milk — The steam wand is barely long enough to use with a typical milk pitcherFuture

Close-up of Russell Hobbs Everyday Espresso Machine steam wand — The steam wand is barely long enough to use with a typical milk pitcherFuture

Whether I chose oat or dairy, the wand simply made lots of very large bubbles, which might look impressive if you've not used a coffee maker before, but are no practical use. This might be an entry-level machine, but new users need proper tools too, and this steam wand misses the mark.

Performance score: 3 / 5

Should you buy the Russell Hobbs Everyday Espresso Machine?

Russell Hobbs Everyday Espresso Machine: score card
Attribute	Notes	Score
Value	One of the cheapest espresso machines I've tested, and looks like it should cost a lot more, but some components are flimsy in use.	4 / 5
Design	The plastic chassis is light and easy to move, but has a strong aroma that takes a while to wear off. Steam wand isn't well designed.	3 / 5
Performance	Can brew a decent espresso, importantly, but generates less pressure than optimal, so an extra coarse grind is necessary. Milk foaming is poor.	3 / 5

Buy it if

You're on a tight fixed budget

This is a very cheap coffee maker, and if you absolutely can't spend any more, it's one of the better options, Russell Hobbs is a reputable brand with good after-sales service.

You want to brew both pods and grounds

There aren't many coffee makers that can do both, so if this is a key requirement, the Everyday Espresso Machine may be the one for you.

Don't buy it if

You enjoy milky drinks

The Everyday Espresso Machine can make a lot of big bubbles, but the results aren’t useful for coffee. You can’t make fine foam, or even heat the milk properly with its strange, stubby steam wand.

You have an extra $50 in your pocket

If you can afford to be a little flexible on price, you can get something much better for your kitchen.

Russell Hobbs Everyday Espresso Machine: also consider

If you're not sure whether the Russell Hobbs Everyday Espresso Machine is the right coffee maker for you, here are two other options for your shortlist. For more recommendations, take a look at my complete guides to the best espresso machines and best Nespresso machines.

De'Longhi Dedica Duo

I've mentioned this little espresso machine several times in this review, and it remains the standard by which all other budget coffee makers are judged. Its performance and build quality belie its bargain price, and you'll often find it available for a discount now that it's a few months old. Highly recommended if you only want to brew from ground coffee, not pods.

Read our full De'Longhi Dedica Duo reviewView Deal

Nespresso Pixie

Prefer pods to beans? The Nespresso Pixie is an excellent, no-frills machine that accepts Original style capsules, and doesn't make a wet mess when brewing them. If you want to make lattes, this machine is available bundled with the Nespresso Aeroccino milk frother for a discounted price.

Read our full Nespresso Pixie reviewView Deal

How I tested the Russell Hobbs Everyday Espresso Machine

I used the Russell Hobbs Everyday Espresso Machine in my kitchen for a week, comparing it with my usual Gaggia Classic coffee maker.

I used it with freshly roasted coffee beans, ground using a Sage Dose Control Pro coffee grinder, and I adjusted the grind size until a double shot of espresso dispensed in around 30 seconds. I used the steam wand with fresh fat dairy and oat milk.

For more details, see how we test, review, and rate products on TechRadar.

I tested the Aura Ink over months, and it ‘captures the spirit of photo frames more authentically’ than LCD — but it’s not perfect

2:00 pm | March 12, 2026

Author: admin | Category: Cameras Computers Gadgets Home Photography Smart Home | Comments: Off

Aura Ink: review

Aura makes stunning digital photo frames. The Aura Walden, for example, currently sits atop a sideboard in my home with its sleek frame, slick mount and punchy 15-inch display — and it also sits atop our list of the best digital photo frames.

So when Aura unveils an entirely new frame with a display that's unlike any other I’ve tested, naturally it has my attention. Said frame is the Aura Ink.

The Ink features an energy-efficient 13.3-inch color E Ink display, for a print-like rendering of your images. Unlike other LCD digital frames, the Ink is Calm Tech Certified — consider it a digital detox thanks to its natural, muted display.

Its E Ink Spectra™ 6 display can render millions of colors, but look closely and detail is dotty, despite its 1600 x 1200 resolution and 150ppi density. The Ink lacks the vibrancy and clarity of Aura’s other LCD digital frames, such as the Walden and Aura Aspen, or Lexar’s Pexar and Starlight, but it does work well in bright interiors, especially for artworks and minimalist photography rather than detail-rich photos. Ultimately, it's much closer to the look of printed photos.

The Aura Ink 'E Ink' digital photo frame's presentation box, propped against a chest, illuminated by the golden hour sun — The Aura Ink comes in a beautiful presentation box, making it feel every inch a premium productTim Coleman

The Aura Ink 'E Ink' digital photo frame's presentation box, illuminated by the golden hour sun — The Aura Ink comes in a beautiful presentation box, making it feel every inch a premium productTim Coleman

What’s disappointing, however, is that Aura has kitted the Ink out with a somewhat glossy-finish panel, which can suffer from glare. I suspect it's no worse than the Walden and Aspen frames, but those LCD displays are illuminated, and as such they're significantly punchier.

Given that the Ink reflects light rather than emits it (like LCD does), it is, in reality, a niche frame. It needs the right conditions — well-lit rooms, but not too sunny — to shine, where it's probably my new favorite digital frame. If I had to choose between the Ink and Walden frames, though — and I've observed both side by side — it’s the latter that gets my vote for display versatility, even if it's yet another digital display to look at.

That said, the Aura Ink has super-low power consumption and a run time of around three months without a continuous power supply. No cables are needed, just a quarterly charge (assuming you only change the displayed image once per day).

A close up of the The Aura Ink 'E Ink' digital photo frame's bezel and mount — The Ink has a sleek bezel, slick mount, and slim profileTim Coleman

A close up of the The Aura Ink 'E Ink' digital photo frame's display power light — The Ink has a sleek bezel, slick mount, and slim profileTim Coleman

Eliminating the reliance on ugly trailing cables is a design win. With regular LCD digital frames, cables are a necessary evil, and tricky to hide when mounting the frame on a wall, though they are less of an issue if you’re resting the frame on a surface.

I’ve come across one or two frames which are supplied with a white cable instead of a black one, including the Walden, which goes some way in disguising the cable (assuming your walls are licked with a light shade of paint). But there’s no doubt that a no-cable-at-all setup is the dream option.

Like the Walden, the Ink's display is housed in an attractive frame with a sleek bezel and a 1.5-inch mount (the off-white border between the bezel and the image). It also features a variety of mounting options, being positionable to display images in landscape and portrait format whether the frame sits on a table, bookshelf or other surfaces, or is fixed to a wall.

Aura has made the Ink impressively slimline — it measures just 0.6 inches deep, compared to the around one-inch depth of most other frames I've tested.

A phone being held, displaying the Aura companion app for digital photo frames, in front of the The Aura Ink 'E Ink' digital photo frame on a sideboard — Pairing the frame to a device with the Aura app installed is a doddle. You'll be up and running in minutes. Not that a wireless connection with the app is the only method of uploading images to the frameTim Coleman

A closeup of the Aura Ink 'E Ink' digital photo frame's display, in pairing mode — Pairing the frame to a device with the Aura app installed is a doddle. You'll be up and running in minutes. Not that a wireless connection with the app is the only method of uploading images to the frameTim Coleman

It charges via USB-C, and the port is easily accessible, which is not something I can say for the Walden's fiddly power input. The USB-C port is for charging only, however — you can't connect devices to add images.

Nor does the Ink have a memory card slot — all image uploads are via the companion app. And it displays photos only; there's no sound. All told, the Ink is as stripped-back as digital frames come.

The Ink shares the same companion app as all Aura frames, which delivers one of the best user experiences in the market and works seamlessly for wireless uploads and display updates, from anywhere with an internet connection.

The Aura Ink 'E Ink' digital photo frame on a sideboard — In fairly dark rooms, the Ink's display will look fairly dimTim Coleman

The Aura Ink 'E Ink' digital photo frame on a sideboard, alongside the Aura Walden frame — In fairly dark rooms, the Ink's display will look fairly dimTim Coleman

Updating the displayed image on the Ink is an odd experience if you happen to be looking at the frame at the time. The frame flashes rapidly for the best part of a minute while the pixels of the existing image clear and are refreshed with the new one.

The Ink is limited to a maximum of 12 image changes per day. This is not Google Photos in a frame, where you might gather around with family, enjoying a rolling image gallery of holiday snaps, but one where you choose your image and live with it for the day or longer.

A close up of the The Aura Ink 'E Ink' digital photo frame's display, showing slight glare — I was slightly disappointed by the degree of glare on the frame's display. Tim Coleman

The real sting in the tail is how much the Aura Ink costs: $499 (pricing and availability for other regions is yet to be confirmed). You really are paying a premium for the E Ink display; even Aura's larger 15-inch LCD digital photo frames cost much less.

I've had the Ink frame in my home for several months, and I'm still somewhat undecided. I think it's the better frame to place on a wall than an LCD type, especially in a bright interior, where it's unbeatable. It's undeniably a premium product, and probably worth paying extra for, especially if you're weary of excessive screen time. However, LCD frames are more versatile.

Aura Ink: price & release date

Aura unveiled the Ink frame in October 2025, and it's available in one display size — 13.3-inch — for $499 in the US. At the time of writing it's not directly available outside the US; previous Aura frames have typically gone on sale globally approximately six months after their US launch, and hopefully the same will be true for the Ink.

I've mentioned the Walden frame a few times, which is a larger 15-inch LCD frame but with a much lower price tag, costing around 40% less. Put simply, you're paying a big premium for the Ink's E Ink display.

Aura Ink: specs

Dimensions	14.1 x 11.4 x 0.6 inches (287 x 206 x 25mm)
Display size	13.3-inch
Resolution	1600 x 1200 (150 pixels per inch)
Aspect Ratio	16:10
Touch Screen	No
Sound	No (no video)
Orientation	Portrait or landscape
Storage	N/A
Connectivity	Wi-Fi (but no SD card, and USB for charging only)

The close up of the Aura Ink 'E Ink' digital photo frame's presentation box, illuminated by the golden hour sun — (Image credit: Tim Coleman)

Should I buy the Aura Ink?

Attributes	Notes	Rating
Features	No local storage, no video or sound, and limited connectivity	3/5
Design	Sleek frame, slim profile, innovative display	4.5/5
Performance	Niche, natural and 'dotty' display; slow and limited image refreshes	4/5
Value	It's almost twice the price of 15-inch LCD frames	3/5

Buy it if…

You want a natural photo frame display
Yes, it's dull compared to an illuminated LCD frame, but the Ink's display is natural, and is one less 'blue light' screen to look at.

You're happy enjoying selected images
The Ink doesn't offer the slideshow-style display of multiple images you get with LCD digital frames and smart displays like the Amazon Echo Show series. Rather, it's designed for appreciating individual images over longer periods.

Don’t buy it if…

You love a punchy display, especially at night
The display reflects light rather than emitting it, so this is not a frame for dark environments or nighttime viewing

You'd rather not rely on an app
With no local storage or external storage connectivity, the Ink relies on Aura's companion app for image uploads.

Aura Ink: also consider

	Aura Ink	Aura Walden	Pexar 11-inch Digital Picture Frame
Display size	13.3-inch	15-inch	11-inch
Resolution	1600 x 1200, 149.5 pixels per inch	1600 x 1200, 133 pixels per inch	2000 x 1200, 212 pixels per inch
Aspect Ratio	16:10	16:10	5:3
Touch Screen	No	Yes	Yes
Sound	No	Built-in speaker	Built-in speaker
Orientation	Portrait or landscape	Portrait or landscape	Portrait or landscape
Storage	N/A	32GB	32GB
Connectivity	Wi-Fi, USB-C (charging only), no SD card slot	Wi-Fi, USB, SD card slot	Wi-Fi, SD card slot, USB-A, USB-C

Aura Walden
At 15 inches, the Walden has the largest display of the three frames in this comparison, and it shares the design traits and companion app of the Ink. The LCD display has a fairly modest pixel density, but it's nonetheless crisp, and the swipe-to-scroll bar on the frame's top is a neat design touch. Read my Aura Walden review

Pexar 11-inch Digital Picture Frame
The Pexar 11-inch is the low-cost option of the three frames in this comparison, but it still features a reflection-free screen and punchy display, with detail-rich 212-ppi pixel density. Read our full Pexar 11-inch Digital Picture Frame review.

How I tested the Aura Ink

I tested the Aura Ink over several months
I uploaded a selection of photos from my Android phone
I placed the frame on various surfaces around my home, in vertical and horizontal formats

Aura sent me its Ink frame and I set it up in my home months before writing this review. Unlike other reviews published soon after the Ink's release, I've actually tested its long battery life – and yes, the three-month battery life based on no more than a single image change per day is accurate.

I've placed the Ink on a sideboard close to a window, in a dim corner of my front room, and various other spaces around the house.

I've uploaded a variety of photos to the frame through Aura's companion app for Android — both minimalist and detail-rich images, in vertical and horizontal formats.

I already have the Aura Walden in my home, so I've been able to make direct comparisons between the two frames.

First reviewed: March 2026
Read more about how we test

I spent two weeks testing Amazon’s new Echo Studio, and I love the stylish new design — but I’m not sure it’s worth the audio-quality trade-offs

2:00 pm | March 7, 2026

Author: admin | Category: Computers Gadgets Home Smart Home Smart Speakers | Comments: Off

It’s been a while since the original Echo Studio launched way back in 2019. So, it makes sense that it’s such a drastic overhaul; the new, 2025 model is 40% smaller with a total design refresh, Alexa+ compatibility and new Fire TV features.

The original Echo Studio launched way back in 2019, and the fact that it’s taken this long for a second-gen model to arrive makes the Studio an outlier in Amazon’s smart speaker range, with other Echos receiving more regular upgrades.

It makes sense, then, that this is a fairly major overhaul: the 2025 model is 40% smaller and gets a total design refresh that brings it into line with other Echos, along with Alexa+ compatibility and new Fire TV features.

While the previous-gen Studio was more than a little clunky in terms of its design, it was pretty well received — much to the surprise of many who’d long bemoaned the audio quality of Amazon’s Echo speakers. Then, in 2022, a slightly upgraded version was released with some modest improvements; this wasn’t considered a new generation of the Studio, but again it surprised and largely delighted users.

So, has lightning struck twice (or technically, thrice) with the new Echo Studio? Well, not quite, but this is still an impressively capable speaker, especially at its size.

There’s an inevitable trade-off between the speaker’s size and its audio quality. In its smaller form factor, the second-generation Studio is certainly more appealing, and the spherical design, new knit-fabric exterior and front-facing controls are much more homely compared to the original, the design of which resembled a medieval knight’s bucket helmet.

With the latest Studio packing Amazon’s new AZ3 Pro chip and offering Alexa+ compatibility, and some great smart home compatibility and sensors, there’s a lot to love, but having tried both the newer and older models, I don’t think the new audio hardware quite lives up to its predecessor. That being said, it’s most certainly the best Alexa speaker for audio available today… unless, of course, you can find a first-gen model on resale.

Echo Studio (2nd gen, 2025) price and availability

List price: $219.99 / £219.99 / AU$429
Released November 2025

The new Echo Studio is the most premium Echo speaker in Amazon’s lineup, offering home-theatre buffs and audiophiles an Alexa-powered alternative to standard speakers. You concede some audio quality, sure, but it’s pretty compact, and the smarts you gain are decent enough.

It’s available in black (graphite) and white (glacier white), and costs $20 / £40 / AU$100 more than the original Studio at $219.99 / £219.99 / AU$429; the price hike is explained, in part, by the rising cost of hardware, but it’s worth noting nonetheless.

It’s also Alexa+ compatible, meaning US Prime subscribers have immediate access to the currently-in-beta service (at the time of writing). Whether or not that’s a positive or a negative, I’ll leave you to decide.

My main issue with the value proposition here is that, at times, the Echo Studio (second-generation) just doesn’t live up to its Studio moniker; and yet, allowing for inflation, it costs the same as the previous generation. Had Amazon skipped some of the smart features and delivered a stronger all-around audio performance, I’d have less of an issue; as it is, and as is the case with almost every new Echo device I’ve reviewed in the past few years, this is one I’d only go for during a sale, and I’d be looking for at least a 40% discount.

Value: 3.5/5

Echo Studio (2nd gen, 2025) specs
	Echo Studio
Dimensions	6.1 x 5.6 x 5.8 inches / 155 x 142.2 x 147.3mm (W x D x H)
Speakers	1x 3.75-inch high excursion woofer, 3x 2.25-inch full-range drivers
Processor	AZ3 Pro
Connecivity	Zigbee, Matter, Thread Border Router, eero
Voice assistant	Alexa
Weight	53.5oz / 1.63kg

Echo Studio on a white table with a blue background — (Image credit: Future)

Echo Studio (2nd gen, 2025) design

New, more premium design and materials
40% smaller than the previous generation
Fewer ports, fewer audio-first design features

Like the Echo Dot Max, which I tested a few months ago, the Echo Studio has a new, more sophisticated look and feel, featuring a chunky knit-fabric exterior, front-facing controls, and a 40% smaller frame than the previous Echo Studio models.

Now, instead of resembling a bucket-shaped medieval knight’s helmet, the Echo Studio is more akin to a rounded spaceship (read: Death Star), and it’s a change I’m quite happy with aesthetically. The base is flat and slightly rubberized, housing a screw-mount for any users who might wish to wall-mount their speaker(s).

The neater look and smaller footprint make it a much more appealing option for around the home, and the new front-facing controls are easily accessible and clear — especially when compared to the original’s small and fiddly buttons. There are volume controls as well as a physical mute button on the plastic control panel. Plus, if you give the Studio a gentle pat on the top, you can stop or start tracks, stop timers and alarms, or end calls and drop-ins.

The iconic illuminated Alexa ring, which glows blue when the speaker is listening to you, now encircles the control panel, and changes colour and brightness for different types of alert (for example, orange for an Amazon marketplace-related notification, or red for connectivity issues).

There’s been a complete hardware refit, too. The new Echo Studio uses the latest AZ3 Pro chip to power Alexa commands and other on-board smarts like ambient sensing and spatial sound. Where the last-generation speakers had three two-inch side-mounted mid-range speakers, a two-inch upward-firing midrange speaker, a 1-inch front-facing tweeter, and a 5.25-inch downward-firing sealed woofer and cutout spaces to allow for airflow to enable powerful and deep bass, the latest model has just three full-range drivers and a single high-excursion woofer. More later on how that impacts performance, but as far as design goes, it does make the focus on the newer model’s aesthetics feel like a big trade-off when you compare the hardware specs.

Connectivity is another area where the new Studio has taken a hit. On the rear, you’ll find a single power port – that’s right, no more 3.5mm combo port for standard audio cable input and Mini-Optical, and no micro-USB port for service/Ethernet adapters. For most, these inputs will be no great loss, but the inflexibility of these speakers will be disappointing to some, and especially to those who know a bit about home theater.

Objectively, I can’t say I dislike the look and feel of the new Echo Studio – it’s more pleasing to the eye, and a lot easier to find a home for at its smaller size. However, many of the concessions made ultimately impact performance and usability — and for a supposedly top-of-the-range speaker I’d always prize those qualities over look and feel.

Design: 4/5

Echo Studio (2nd gen, 2025) audio quality

Complete hardware refit compared to previous generation
Solid, clear audio across a range of genres
Mid-range performance for home cinema

Sitting at the top end of the Echo speaker lineup, the Echo Studio in principle offers the best audio you can get from an Amazon speaker. However, while that’s indeed the case, not everyone who loved the first-generation Studio will enjoy this newer version.

As mentioned above, the new Echo Studio trades its predecessor’s three two-inch side-mounted mid-range speakers, two-inch upward-firing midrange speaker, 1-inch front-facing tweeter, and 5.25-inch downward-firing sealed woofer for three full-range drivers and a single high-excursion woofer. Plus, under the hood, the new AZ3 Pro chip does a lot of the legwork, working in tandem with onboard far-field microphones to deliver Automatic Room Adaptation, fine-tuning the audio experience based on the room’s acoustics. There’s also spatial audio, Lossless High Definition and Dolby Atmos support.

So, what difference do these hardware changes make in practice? I played a variety of tracks from different genres to test the speaker’s audio quality, as well as trying out the new Amazon Home Theatre feature, to find out.

It’s a tale of trade-offs; on the one hand, the soundstage is well balanced overall, producing beautifully clear layers and expressing texture in tracks well. Hans Zimmer’s Cornfield Chase was rendered with beautiful depth and clarity, especially at louder volumes, as was Jeff Buckley’s Last Goodbye, with the Echo Studio proving amply capable of rendering Buckley’s quivering vocals beautifully while preserving the layered rhythmic guitars and mounting tension. Dynamic songs like Glory Box by Portishead offer well-rounded bass, with every detail of the track, right down to its vinyl crackle, represented with impressive clarity.

However, the Echo Studio lacks the powerful bass and overall volume of older models, and certain tracks suffer as a result: Running Up That Hill by Kate Bush plays much more faithfully than on the Echo Dot Max I tested a few months ago, but the Echo Studio still lacks the pummeling bass I so adore. Similarly, Fleetwood Mac’s The Chain, especially at lower volumes, fails to fully deliver the track’s signature thunderous, driving bass.

With Amazon removing many of the audio-first design features (like the sound-carrying cutouts) and squeezing the device into a far smaller form factor, the new Echo Studio ultimately loses a lot of its oomph. It also now downmixes stereo content to mono, and compresses the mix more aggressively at higher volumes than the original model.

That said, when I was testing this speaker in my apartment, I wasn’t looking to push the volume beyond 70% (mostly for the sake of my neighbours), and the bass was, broadly, suitably present for my living space, this is aided by the Automatic Room Adaptation, which works well to really flood a space with sound.

Of course, the Echo Studio can do more than just play your music. You can connect up to five Echo Dot Max or Echo Studio speakers plus an optional Echo subwoofer to a Fire TV Stick 4K (2nd-gen), Fire TV Stick 4K Plus, Fire TV Stick 4K Max (2nd-gen), or Fire TV Cube (3rd-gen) to use Amazon’s new Home Theatre feature. I gave this a quick try, albeit with just the one Echo Studio, watching a few scenes from Red Sonja, The Batman and Oppenheimer to put its through its paces. I was pretty happy with how much depth and clarity the Echo Studio provided (it’s all handled over Bluetooth, so I did notice a bit of a delay with lip-synching initially; thankfully, you can adjust this in the settings), and I can imagine with a full set the sound would be really quite impressive.

That said, the dynamic range was pushed to its limit during my testing, and I ultimately found myself toggling the volume fairly often. Plus, its downmixed mono playback makes it a hard sell for a cinephile – of course, you can opt to spend $1,000 / £1,000 / AU$2,000 on a full Amazon Home Theater setup, but for that price I’d wager there are far superior surround sound systems. It’s only if you’re benefitting specifically from the Echo Studio’s place in Amazon’s Fire TV / Prime / Alexa+ ecosystem that I can see this being a viable option.

Audio quality: 3.5/5

Echo Studio (2nd gen, 2025) features

Smart and accurate sensors
Speedy Alexa commands
Alexa+ compatible

Much like the Echo Dot Max, the Echo Studio is locked and loaded with clever sensors and smarts to help run your smart home, including the same temperature and ultrasound motion sensors as the Echo Dot (4th gen) as well as a new Wi-Fi sensing capability.

I set these up at home for even smarter Alexa Routines; when I enter a room, an automation turns on my smart lights, and when the temperature drops, my electric heater turns on to keep me toasty during the UK winter months. Everything worked as expected on test, and it’s good to see the Echo Studio keeping pace with other smart speakers here.

The new AZ3 Pro chipset delivers super-speedy Alexa responses, though you probably won’t notice the difference unless you’ve been using Alexa-enabled devices from a few years ago. Where you will feel the difference is if you have access to Alexa+, as that’s the real driver behind the additional computing power. I’m testing this speaker in the UK, where we don’t currently have access to Amazon’s full agentic AI platform, but my US-based colleague Lance Ulanoff shared his first impressions of the service overall.

Features: 4/5

Echo Studio (2nd gen, 2025) being pressed by a hand — (Image credit: Future)

Should I buy the Echo Studio (2nd gen, 2025)?

Buy it if…

You want room-filling audio

The Echo Studio’s room-adapting smarts go a long way to up the value, and it’s delivering a lot of clever optimization to compensate for the admittedly weaker hardware.View Deal

You’re upgrading from an older, regular Echo speaker

More recent Echo smart speakers pack fairly similar specs and performance, but the AZ3 chip brings a marked improvement. View Deal

Don’t buy it if…

You’re an audiophile

While in many ways the Echo Studio does impress, it’s fundamentally incapable of offering a true hi-fi audio experience.View Deal

You own an older Echo Studio

I’m willing to bet that if you love your old Echo Studio, you won’t be a huge fan of this newer model. View Deal

Also consider

	Echo Studio	Echo Dot Max	Echo (4th-gen)
Dimensions	6.1 x 5.6 x 5.8 inches (W x D x H)	4.27 x 4.27 x 3.9 inches	5.7-inch x 5.7-inch x 5.2-inch
Speakers	1x 3.75-inch high excursion woofer, 3x 2.25-inch full-range drivers	0.8-inch tweeter and 2.5-inch woofer	3-inch neodymium woofer and two 0.8-inch front-firing tweeters with Dolby Audio support
Processor	AZ3 Pro	AZ3	AZ1 Neural Edge
Connecivity	Zigbee, Matter, Thread Border Router, eero	Zigbee, Matter, Thread Border Router, eero, Wi-Fi 6	Zigbee, Matter, Thread border router. Dual-band Wi-Fi, eero, Bluetooth 3.5mm audio line-in/out.
Voice assistant	Alexa	Alexa	Alexa
Weight	53.5oz / 1.63 kg	505.3g	970g

Also consider Echo Dot Max

The new Echo Dot Max offers adaptable and solid audio specs, with much of the same internal hardware as the Echo Studio barring some of the more powerful speakers.

For more information, check out our full Echo Dot (5th-gen) review.

Also consider Echo (4th-gen)

The 4th generation of Amazon’s base model Echo speaker may be getting long in the tooth, its audio performance is admirable, it’s often on sale at bargain prices, and offers a similar performance.

For more information, check out our full Echo (4th-gen) review.

How I tested the Echo Studio (2nd gen, 2025)

I used the Echo Studio as part of my smart home setup
I played lossless audio through Spotify
I used the standard Alexa and other advertised features.

I tried all of the advertised features of the Echo Studio (barring Alexa+ which is not currently available in the UK) to assess its performance and audio quality.

As well as testing Alexa’s ability to follow commands and surface information, I used my Echo Studio as a speaker, streaming lossless tracks via Spotify across a variety of genres and moods to test the speaker’s dynamic range, clarity and volume. I also tried using the new Echo Studio as part of my Amazon Home Theatre setup, listening to various TV shows and movies to see how well the speaker would serve cinephiles.

I’ve had an Alexa-powered smart home for years, having professionally tested smart home devices for over four years. In addition to my at-home Alexa setup, I’ve also used both Google and Apple devices to assess the strengths and weaknesses of the most popular smart home ecosystems.

Looking for a budget-friendly, subscription-free security camera? I’ve been hands-on with the IMOU Cell 3C, and it could be exactly what you need

7:07 pm | March 3, 2026

Author: admin | Category: Computers Gadgets Home Home Security Smart Home | Comments: Off

IMOU Cell 3C: two-minute review

Founded in 2015 as a spin-off from the Chinese surveillance giant Dahua Technology, Hangzhou-based IMOU has quickly established itself as a major player in the value segment of the smart home market. While other brands such as Reolink and Ring target the premium 4K bracket, IMOU's strategy with the Cell 3C seems to be to provide high-end features at a price that undercuts most of its major rivals.

Like the more expensive Baseus Security S2, the IMOU Cell 3C features a built-in solar panel mounted directly to the top of the camera body. However, while the Baseus features a clever motorized tracking system to follow the sun, the IMOU offers simpler manual adjustment. To maximize power you simply angle the 2.2W panel towards the sky, making sure you connect the USB cable supplied to the camera’s USB-C input. Alternatively, if the camera doesn’t have direct access to the sun, you can mount the solar panel separately in a sunnier location using the bracket provided.

IMOU Cell 3C All-in-One Security Camera front view — Tilt the solar panel to face the sun, or mount it away from the camera if it's in a shady spot (Image credit: Future)

Whereas many security brands — particularly Amazon-owned Ring — charge a large monthly subscription to store recorded clips, one of the most compelling reasons to buy IMOU’s Cell 3C is the ability to store clips locally using a MicroSD card up to 256GB (not provided). Not only does this save you a significant amount in annual monthly subscription fees, it also ensures that potentially sensitive data stays within the home rather than on a remote server.

That said, if you don’t want to store recorded clips on a MicroSD card, it's possible to sign up to IMOU’s subscription service from £3.49 (about $5 / AU$7) a month — see the 'Price and Availability' section below.

Designed to be installed on the outside of a property with a clear view of the sky, the IMOU Cell 3C is supplied with a reasonably sturdy mount complete with wall plugs and screws.

I installed it on the outside of a garden office in my back garden at a height of around two meters. However, it can easily be installed in a front porch or high up on the outside of your main property (remembering you will still need to access it for recharging every few months unless you live in a very sunny climate).

Mount for IMOU Cell 3C All-in-One Security Camera attached to shed — The camera's mount is reasonably sturdy, and easy to install (Image credit: Future)

Whereas some outdoor models are dual-band Wi-Fi compatible (some will even work on 4G/5G cellular networks), the IMOU is only compatible with the 2.4GHz band. However, it connected to my broadband repeater at the back of the house without any problems. Featuring IP66 waterproof rating, IMOU claims the Cell 3C will work in temperatures between -20 degrees centigrade and 50 degrees centigrade, but this wasn’t put to the test.

Once installed, which takes around 20 minutes, it’s simply a case of downloading the IMOU Life iOS/Android app and adding the camera via the QR code on the side of the device. Unlike some apps, which boast very user-friendly menus (particularly those from companies such as Ring and Blink), IMOU’s app is much more difficult to navigate around.

Adding IMOU Cell 3C All-in-One Security Camera to mobile app — IMOU Life isn't the easiest app to navigate (Image credit: Future)

That said, it offers everything you need when setting up. For example, you can select ‘activity zones’ where you want it to capture footage, such as a locked door or window, and ‘non-detection zones’ where you don’t want it to record such as a neighbour’s garden or a main road. You can also set the device to only operate during certain hours, such as after dark, and only alert you if it detects a human rather than movement from a tree or a car going past.

One unusual feature is a time-lapse mode that will automatically capture images at selected regular intervals. Pre-set modes include cloud movements (10secs), flowers (five minutes) and building construction (50 minutes). Alternatively, you can set the timer manually to take shots between 10 seconds and six hours.

IMOU Cell 3C All-in-One Security Camera bottom view, showing SD card slot — Videos can be saved locally on a MicroSD card, meaning you don't have to pay for cloud storage unless you really want to (Image credit: Future)

Finally, to help deter burglars a built in 110dB siren and reasonably powerful spotlight (in flashing or solid modes) are also on board. These can be activated manually or, for the really paranoid, automatically when the devices senses movement. There’s also a built-in speaker and microphone for talking to someone on your property.

IMOU Cell 3C: price and availability

Costs $55 / £49 / AU$129
Available since September 2024
Sold in US / UK / Australia

Typically, outdoor security cameras retail for between $200 / £150 / AU$300 and $250 / £200 / AU$400. So with a price tag of around $55 / £49 / AU$129, the IMOU Cell 3C certainly is excellent value for money — especially when you consider it comes with its own solar panel.

Also, whereas many manufacturers are effectively able to subsidize the price of the hardware through hefty monthly subscriptions, with the IMOU Cell 3C this isn’t necessary. Instead you can buy a MicroSD card for under £20 which can store up to 256GB of video footage — a far cheaper option than a monthly subscription.

However, if you really do want to pay for a monthly subscription there is that offer too. IMOU offers three subscription tiers. For £3.49 (about $5 / AU$7) a month IMOU Protect Basic provides seven days of cloud storage and AI detection, while for £5.29 (about $7 / AU$10) a month IMOU Protect Plus offers 30 days of cloud storage and AI detection.

Best of all is IMOU Protect Pro (£9.99, or about $13 / AU$19 per month), which not only supports multiple devices and 30 days of cloud storage, but also offers additional functionality such as Descriptive Alerts — summaries of what was detected so you know what happened without having to watch the whole video (much like Ring's AI-generated video descriptions).

Value score: 5/5

IMOU Cell 3C: design

MicroSD card slot for local storage
Flexible battery/solar power options
Lightweight tubular design

Like the Baseus Security S2 camera, the IMOU Cell 3C is a long, tubular device that — at first glance — looks more like a Bluetooth speaker than a security camera. Of course, the big giveaway is the solar panel that sits on top of the camera to provide additional power. This connects to the camera via a cable to a USB-C socket located on top of the device.

Screws and wall plugs are provided for mounting the bracket to the wall and the solar panel can either be unscrewed and mounted separately or kept on top of the camera (we opted for the latter). I had initially worried that the tubular design might be a little unstable when mounting to a wooden summerhouse/office. However, it’s actually pretty lightweight, tipping the scales at just 360g (13oz) without feeling too flimsy.

IMOU Cell 3C All-in-One Security Camera mounted outdoors side view — The MicroSD card slot has a weather-resistant cover to keep your recordings safe (Image credit: Future)

Underneath the camera there’s a weather-sealed flap covering the USB-C socket. This is used for charging the camera via the mains (a 5000mAh rechargeable battery is built in). Here you’ll also find a slot for a MicroSD card, supporting up to 256GB for local recording, as well as sync button for use during set up as well as a modest built-in speaker.

On the front of the device, there’s the 2K lens for capturing recordings, PIR (passive infrared) sensor for accurate movement detection, a small microphone for two-way audio and a reasonably powerful spotlight. Finally, there’s the solar panel on top of the camera which can be manually adjusted towards the sun to maximize power.

Design score: 4/5

IMOU Cell 3C: performance

Reasonable 2K image
Stable video connection over 2.4GHz Wi-Fi
Reliable human detection and fewer false alerts

When it comes to performance, outdoor security cameras face multiple challenges. First of all, there’s the issue around power and how to keep the device running without a mains connection nearby. Thankfully IMOU has addressed fitting its device with a 5,000 mAh rechargeable lithium-ion battery and a solar panel. As a result, even after using regularly for a couple of weeks, the device still has over 90% charge.

IMOU Cell 3C All-in-One Security Camera subscription offer on iPhone — If you really want cloud storage, the option is available through IMOU ProtectFuture

Setting up sound and light sensitivity on IMOU Cell 3C All-in-One Security Camera — If you really want cloud storage, the option is available through IMOU ProtectFuture

Then there’s the issue around video stability, given the distance between the home router and the security camera. Again, this didn’t prove to be an issue at all, with the device maintaining a steady connection throughout the testing period. Finally there’s the images themselves, both in terms of quality and quantity.

Given this is a 2K camera, image quality certainly isn’t the sharpest I’ve seen — nowhere near as good as from the 4K Baseus Security S2 camera which we reviewed last year (and which this model so closely resembles). Night vision is particularly disappointing, even with the reasonably powerful spotlight on.

Two iPhone showing footage from IMOU Cell 3C All-in-One Security Camera during the day and at night — Image quality isn't the best around, particularly at night (Image credit: Future)

However, where the IMOU excels is in the quantity of images. Whereas some models trigger loads of annoying false alerts, the IMOU records only what’s useful, thanks in part it seems to dedicated human detection algorithms.

Performance score: 3.5/5

Should you buy the IMOU Cell 3C?

IMOU Cell 3C score card
Attribute	Notes	Score
Value	When it comes to value, it’s difficult to beat the IMOU Cell 3C. It’s a pretty decent outdoor security camera with bags of features and a solar panel for under £50. Bargain!	5/5
Design	A long white tubular design, it looks very similar to the Baseus Security. However, it’s not quite as sturdy or as well designed as the Baseus model.	4/5
Performance	Picture quality from the 2K lens is a little disappointing. However it does deliver very accurate motion alerts and battery life is good.	3.5/5
Overall	A pretty decent outdoor security camera. What it lacks in image quality, it more than make up for in functionality and the price is extremely competitive.	4/4

Buy it if

You want a cheap solution

At £49.99, it is one of the most affordable solar-powered options on the market.

You hate monthly subscription fees

You don’t have to pay for a monthly subscription to keep your videos in the cloud. Instead, clips can be stored locally on a MicroSD card (available separately)

Don't buy it if

You want the sharpest images

While video quality is OK, if you want to zoom in on a particular area of detail in some captured footage, you may be left disappointed.

You have a very shaded garden

The solar panel needs direct sunlight. Otherwise, you’ll have to be taking the camera down every few months for recharging.

IMOU Cell 3C: also consider

Not sure if the IMOU Cell 3C is the right security camera for you? Here's how it stacks up against two of its closest rivals.

	IMOU Cell 3C	Baseus Security S2 4K	Eufy 4K S330 security camera	Ring Outdoor Cam Plus
Subscription price	None required (optional IMOU Protect from £3.49 a month)	None	None	From £4.99 a month
Viewing angle	120° horizontal	145° horizontal	360° view	140° horizontal
Network connection	Wi-Fi (2.4GHz)	Wi-Fi (2.4GHz)	Wi-Fi/4G	Wi-Fi (2.4GHz/5GHz)
Audio	Two-way audio	Two-way audio	Two-way audio	Two-way audio
Video	2K (3MP) video resolution	4K video resolution	4K video resolution	2560 x 1440 (2K)
Power	Battery, solar	Battery, solar	Battery, solar	Mains, battery, solar
Hardware price	£49.99 (with built in solar panel)	£199 (with solar panel)	£189 (with solar panel)	£69 (£99 with solar panel )

Baseus Security S2

An outdoor camera with an innovative twisting solar panel to maximize power from the sun. Features 4K video resolution and a MicroSD card slot for storing footage locally.

Read our full Baseus Security S2 Outdoor Camera reviewView Deal

Eufy 4K S330 Security Camera

An innovative battery- and solar-powered camera, the Eufy 4K S330 can be used with the supplied 4G Sim card to capture recordings - ideal for those who live in areas with poor Wi-Fi/broadband.

Read our full Eufy 4K S330 Security Camera reviewView Deal

How I tested the IMOU Cell 3C

I used the camera outdoors
I installed it myself
I tested all the features, including the siren (the neighbors weren’t happy)

Testing a solar powered camera in a rainy UK environment is far from ideal. However, as luck would have it, spring sprung during testing and I was able to check out the effectiveness of the solar panel in the sunshine.

After two weeks of testing, battery levels are still over 90%, which seems pretty good — though in the depths of winter it would be a different matter of course. I particularly like the fact that, while the app isn’t the easiest to navigate,

I haven’t been overwhelmed with lots of false alerts when a tree has swayed too much or a bird has flown past. Instead, it just sends me a push notification and stores the video clip each time a human is detected!

For more details, see how TechRadar tests, reviews, and rates products.

I tested this compact drip-coffee machine and it’s a fantastically fuss-free way to brew small batches of coffee — even if it can’t quite reach the intense flavor of more methodical processes

4:00 am | February 28, 2026

Author: admin | Category: Coffee Machines Computers Gadgets Home Small Appliances | Comments: Off

Ratio Four: one-minute review

The Ratio Four is a drip-coffee machine focused on smaller batches. That means it fulfils a valuable niche in the market, making it perfect for anyone likely to want just a few cups of coffee at a time.

Instead of leaving your brew to stew for hours over a heating element, you can quickly whip up a small batch of coffee on demand, so there's less waste than with some traditional drip machines. While it may not be optimal for offices or big families, it’s great for couples or coffee fans who are flying solo.

The smaller capacity has an extra benefit: its footprint takes up far less space on your counter than many of the best coffee makers. Instead, it cuts a sleek figure on your counter, with its clamp-shaped form and smoky-colored glass carafe looking at home in any kitchen. The only exception here is the water tank. While I understand the design helps keep its size down, I’m not the biggest fan of the way it’s hooked up to the machine via an umbilical cord pipe: I much prefer the built-in tanks of the more premium Ratio Six and Ratio Eight.

Using the Ratio Four couldn’t be easier. Once I’d filled the water tank, all I had to do was slip a compatible filter into the basket, grind my beans to medium-coarse, and pour them in. Pressing the single button on the front first runs a bloom cycle to pre-wet and stir up the grounds – a step many traditional drip machines skip – and then the Ratio Four gets to work running water through your grounds to fill the carafe with sweet Costa Rican crude.

So how did my coffee turn out? Once I found the best grind for the Ratio Four, it made very solid coffee – it wasn’t too bitter, and there was at least a hint of some of those volatile flavors that make speciality coffees so fantastic. But I wouldn’t say it packed the rich bouquet I associate with wonderfully extracted coffee. I’ve definitely experienced pour-over and pressure-extracted coffees that expressed more character out of similar beans.

That doesn’t mean the Ratio Four isn’t worth buying, though. Pour-over coffee requires developing the knack for it, while many of the best espresso machines require you to spend more money and a lot of time cleaning. When you just need a couple of cups of tasty coffee in mere minutes, the Ratio Four is definitely worth your time.

A closeup of the front of the Ratio Four, showing its button and lights that read 'Bloom', 'Brew' and 'Ready'. — (Image credit: Future)

Ratio Four review: price and availability

Launched November 2024
Retails for $279

Launched in November 2024, the Ratio Four is available now. It retails for a list price of $279 (around £205) – unfortunately, unlike its larger stablemates, the Ratio Six and Ratio Eight, it’s not currently available in the UK. So those based on that side of the pond might have to content themselves with drip machines like the Sage Luxe Brewer Thermal or Ninja DualBrew Pro instead.

While the black version featured here isn’t currently available on Amazon, the white colorway is, and it looks just as classy. For that price, you get pretty much everything you need included – such as the carafe and filter basket – with the exception of compatible Ratio or Melitta filters. I’d recommend you grab some at the same time if you’re going to purchase the Ratio Four.

The Ratio Four's carafe and filter basket on a desk in front of a pink background. — (Image credit: Future)

Ratio Four review: specs

Type	Automatic drip machine
Dimensions (W x H x D)	10.6 x 7.5 x 11.5 inches / 26.9 x 19.1 x 29.2cm
Weight	24.18lbs / 10.97kg
Water reservoir capacity	20.3 ounces / 0.6l

The Ratio Four, carafe and water tank on a desk in front of a pink background. — (Image credit: Future)

Ratio Four review: design

Sleek, attractive styling
Perfect for just one or two cups
Water tank looks less elegant

For some reason, not every brand seems to have gotten the memo about coffee maker design. Some manufacturers seem to think that just because an appliance is bulky, it has to be squat and utilitarian. Fortunately, Ratio is way ahead of the crowd here: all of its drip coffee machines are gorgeous, and the Four is no exception.

Despite measuring 10.6 x 7.5 x 11.5 inches / 26.9 x 19.1 x 29.2cm, this coffee maker looks pretty sleek to my eye. Both its matt black finish and bracket-shaped form meant it cut a bold silhouette in my kitchen and stood out among all the chrome and squat boxes of my other appliances.

As the smallest product in Ratio’s range, the Four’s water tank only holds 20.3oz / 0.6l, which is approximately enough for two full mugs. There aren’t many drip machines that cater to this size, making this a great choice for individuals or couples. However, that does mean that if you need to brew enough for a family brunch or your coworkers’ coffee order, you’ll probably want to size up.

A man's hands insert the Ratio Four's water tank into its dock. — (Image credit: Future)

The water tank is the one area where this machine loses some style points. The discrete reservoir and hose hookup looks a little goofy to me, like it's connected to the device with an umbilical cord. Personally, I prefer the built-in tanks of the more premium options.

By their very nature, drip coffee machines are far simpler affairs than espresso machines, so you don’t get a lot in terms of accessories here, but it includes everything you need. The packaged carafe is nicely made, and its darkened, heat-proof glass gives it a smoky, sophisticated look. And it comes with a filter basket, although you can swap in your Hario V60, Kalita Wave, or Origami basket if you prefer.

Beyond this, you’re on your own. So, to get the right coarseness of grind – pre-ground is unlikely to give you either the freshness or precision you’ll need here – you’ll want a coffee grinder too. It’s also worth getting some compatible, flat-bottom filter papers. Ratio sells its own, but the Ratio Four is also compatible with Melitta filters if those are more convenient for you.

Design score: 4.5/5

A man folds over the edges of a coffee filter into the Ratio Four's filter basket. — Future

A man pours coffee grounds into the filter paper inside the Ratio Four's filter basket. — Future

Ratio Four review: performance

Quick to use and clean
Easier than pour-over to get consistent results
Flavor is good, but not top tier

If you’re looking at automatic drip-coffee machines, your biggest priorities are likely to be speed and convenience. I’m happy to say that the Ratio Four offers both of these things in spades.

Larger drip-coffee machines can take 5 to 10 minutes to brew, but thanks to the Ratio Four’s smaller batch sizes, it often takes far less time. While the first brew I did took 1 minute 52 to bloom and 5 minutes 16 for the total pour, once the boiler had warmed up, this time shrank considerably. My final brew took 1 minute 29 to bloom and 4 minutes 28 for total pour time, so pretty much bang on what I’d expect.

So, how easy is it to use? All told, I felt the process was pretty straightforward. Once you’ve ground your beans, just insert a compatible filter, fill it up, and top up the tank – then you’re good to go. Press its single button, and it’ll automatically bloom and brew your coffee. Compared to the more finicky process I’ve come to expect from my pour-over or espresso machine, using the Ratio Four is a breeze.

And it achieves decent results… as long as you’re willing to experiment with dialing in the right grind. While you’ll be broadly fine with a medium-coarse grind – somewhere between sand and sea salt in texture – I found brewing a few test batches allowed me to really zero in on the right grind for the machine and filters I was using.

A man presses the button to start the Ratio Four's brew cycle. — (Image credit: Future)

Case in point, for my first batch, I set TechRadar’s Mazzer Philos testing grinder to 100 (on a scale of 0 - 140). While the initial bloom of the grounds seemed to go well, the resultant pour looked a little weak to my eye – something I confirmed when I tasted it. Honestly, it was insipid, tasting indistinguishable from a stewed French press. Back to the grindstone then.

This is where I went down a bit of a rabbit hole. I brewed about eight more batches, dialing the grind down 60 microns at a time, producing more flavorful brews each time. I did eventually hit a sweet spot of richness and acidity, but this came at a finer grind than I expected and didn’t quite produce the flavor-forward caffeine hit I was looking for. Don’t get me wrong: it makes a tasty cup of joe, but I honestly feel like pour-over or an espresso machine would have extracted more of those mouth-watering, floral flavor notes I was hoping for.

But barring a little grind calibration, I have to hand it to the Ratio Four for being incredibly easy to use. And it’s similarly easy to clean. All I had to do was bang the used filter and grounds into the trash, wash out the filter basket, carafe, and water tank, wipe down the shower, and it was ready to go again. Compared to espresso machines, with their milk-encrusted steam wands and silt-clogged portafilters, it’s much easier to get the Ratio Four looking spotless.

All in all, the Ratio Four makes good coffee while being simple to operate. It ekes a little bit more flavor out of your grind than a standard drip coffee, and it’s cheaper and easier to use than the best espresso machines – it just can’t reach the same heights of flavor.

Performance score: 3.5/5

A man pours rich black coffee out of the Ratio Four's carafe into a glass. — (Image credit: Future)

Should I buy the Ratio Four?

Attribute	Notes	Score
Value	Few coffee machines at this price will make a better brew. But many pour-over setups are a fair bit cheaper and more expensive espresso machines will likely give you better results.	4/5
Design	Stylish and sleek, although the separate water tank looks a little silly. A perfect size if you just want two cups of coffee, but less useful for families or workplaces.	4.5/5
Performance	Incredibly easy to use and clean. After you’ve properly calibrated your grind, it can produce tasty coffee – but if flavor is your biggest priority, you may find other setups more rewarding.	3.5/5

Buy it if…

You want pour-over style coffee without the hassle
With its bloom cycle and the way its shower agitates the grind, the Ratio Four gets you much closer to pour-over quality without you needing to spend time honing your technique.

You’re tired of boxy kitchen appliances
As with all of Ratio’s coffee machines, this cuts a gorgeous silhouette. The umbilically connected water tank aside, this stylish machine will look seriously classy on your counter.

Don't buy it if…

You want the best possible tasting coffee
While the Ratio Four provides a tasty brew, I don’t think it can quite hit the heights of an exquisitely executed espresso or perfect pour-over. So if you want truly exceptional coffee, I think it’s worth the extra expense or practice.

You want coffee for your whole house or office
The Ratio Four’s whole niche is that it provides small-batch drip coffee. That’s fantastic for individuals or couples, but, naturally, if you want to serve more people, a bigger drip machine will suit you better.

Ratio Four review: also consider

Breville Luxe Brewer Thermal
Breville’s machine is everything a drip-coffee machine should be. It’s simple to use, has a well-designed interface, and produces great-tasting coffee. It has a few tricks up its sleeve as well: it’s able to keep your java warm for hours without stewing it and also produce authentic cold brew with far less mess. Read our full Breville Luxe Brewer Thermal review.

Ninja DualBrew Pro
This chimera of a device combines two easy-brew coffee-making methods in one handy gadget. Not only can it create a batch of drip coffee anywhere from 4oz to 55oz, but its included K-cup adapter means you can also use pods to fire out a quick espresso instead. It can’t quite rival a dedicated espresso machine, but it sure makes up for that in convenience. Read our full Ninja DualBrew Pro review.

How I tested the Ratio Four

Tested it over a week
Made around 8 - 10 batches of coffee
Have several decades of experience making coffee

I tested the Ratio Four over the course of a week. As it’s exclusive to the US and I’m testing in the UK, I used a voltage transformer to step down our 240V mains power to 120V. I exclusively used fresh-roasted beans ground right before brewing to ensure as much of the delicate flavor profile was preserved as possible.

When it came to testing, I brewed 8 - 10 batches of coffee at a range of grinds from coarse to medium, covering a much wider range of grinds than would usually be used for drip coffee. I followed the exact grounds-to-water ratio suggested by the manufacturer. I created multiple batches one after another, then made sure to compare the results to see how variations in the grind affected the finished results.

In terms of my experience, I’ve been making and drinking coffee on a daily basis for over two decades. My go-to brew methods are espresso using my Breville Bambino and cold-brew extracted at room temperature over 18 hours and then filtered through a fine mesh. However, I’ve used an enormous array of coffee-making devices over the years, from the Aeropress to a stove-top moka pot.

First reviewed: February 2026
Read more about how we test

The Philips Baristina is the most affordable bean-to-cup coffee maker I’ve ever tested — and it’s seriously impressive

5:53 pm | February 24, 2026

Author: admin | Category: Coffee Machines Computers Gadgets Home Small Appliances | Tags: Australia, Europe, North America | Comments: Off

Philips Baristina: one-minute review

With the Philips Baristina, brewing espresso using freshly roasted beans is as easy as using coffee pods. Unlike most of the best bean-to-cup coffee makers, where the entire brewing process takes place within the case, the Baristina uses a portafilter handle much like a manual espresso machine. Push the empty handle into place, select your drink, and the Baristina will grind the right dose of coffee into the filter basket, tamp it down, then move it to the brewing group automatically for the shot to be extracted.

It's a clever design that's unlike any other bean-to-cup machine I've tested, and because the Baristina uses a portafilter, cleaning up is a piece of cake. There's no need to take the side off the machine, empty messy internal bins, remove components, or wipe up stray coffee grounds that have escaped.

It's a good-looking little coffee maker as well. Although its case is plastic, its matt finish and choice of tasteful colors mean it doesn't look cheap or attract fingerprints. The portafilter handle even arrives in a choice of colors and natural wood finishes (the exact options available will depend on where you buy your machine).

Philips Baristina espresso machine with plant on kitchen counter — (Image credit: Future)

During my tests, coffee was consistently well extracted using my usual freshly roasted beans, with the pressurized filter basket producing a thick layer of crema.

In my opinion, the biggest drawback is that the Philips Baristina doesn't allow you to adjust the grind size, which means you have no control over how quickly your coffee is extracted. You can adjust the volume of your brew, but that's all. If your coffee tastes over- or under-extracted, you'll need to try different beans until you find something that works well with the standard settings.

You should also be aware that the Baristina doesn't have a steam wand or any other means of foaming milk, although it's available bundled with a standalone milk frother if cappuccinos and lattes are your thing.

All in all, it's an excellent beginner-friendly espresso machine that's ideal if you're new to using fresh beans and want to keep things as simple as possible. It's remarkably affordable, too, with a list price of just $299.95 / £279.99 (about AU$600).

Philips Baristina espresso machine hopper with coffee beans — Unlike most espresso machines, the Philips Baristina doesn't offer a way to adjust the grind size. (Image credit: Future)

Philips Baristina: price and availability

Very cheap for a bean-to-cup coffee maker
Sold in North America, Europe and Australia
Often available at a discounted price

The Philips Baristina is the most affordable bean-to-cup coffee maker I've tested to date, with a list price of $449.99 / £299.99 / AU$599. You can pick up a good-quality manual espresso machine for around the same price — the five-star rated De'Longhi Dedica Duo for $299.95 / £279.99 (about AU$550), for example — but if you're after an automatic coffee maker, I haven't seen another model that delivers better in terms of value for money.

It's often available at a discount at major retailers, making it even better value. You'll find all today's best deals below.

The Baristina is available in North America, throughout Europe and has recently made its way to Australia.

Value score: 5/5

Philips Baristina: specifications

Name	Philips Baristina
Type	Bean-to-cup
Dimensions (W x H x D)	7 x 13.6 x 15 inches / 18 x 34.5 x 38cm
Weight	11lbs / 5kg
Water reservoir capacity	47oz / 1.2 liters
Milk frother	No
Bars of pressure	16
User profiles	None

Philips Baristina: design

Sleek design with matt finish
Clever "one swipe" portafilter design
No steam wand (although separate milk frother is available)

The Philips Baristina is a compact coffee maker with a smart, minimalist design. It comes in two colors, black and white, with matching portafilter handles as standard. Some retailers also offer a selection of contrasting portafilter shades (including red, green, and yellow), plus light and dark wood options so you can pick something that suits your kitchen décor. Whichever color you choose, the portafilter is fitted with a non-removeable pressurized basket.

All in all, it's a good-looking machine, and although its case is made from plastic, its matt finish means it doesn't appear cheap or attract fingerprints like some more expensive coffee makers I've tested.

Philips Baristina coffee maker with espresso on kitchen counter — The Baristina uses what Philips calls a "one-swipe" system. Push in the portafilter, slide it to the right, and the machine does the rest (Image credit: Future)

The Baristina is controlled using a simple set of three buttons: one for a single shot of espresso; one for a lungo (a longer drink with the same amount of coffee and twice as much water); and one to boost the intensity by increasing the dose of ground coffee.

The bean hopper is quite small, but that isn't a problem unless you're preparing coffee for a crowd; it's best to keep your coffee in a dark, cool, airtight place until you're ready to grind it and refill your coffee machine little and often.

The Baristina's water tank slides onto the back of the machine, and although I'd have liked to see a handle, its ridged surface makes it easy to grip when filling and replacing. It has a robust lid that fits firmly in place to avoid accidental spills, but do note that there's no water filter provided, so if you live in a hard water area then you might want to use a separate water filtration pitcher.

Philips Baristina espresso machine with water tank removed and plant on kitchen counter — The water tank has no handle, but its ridged surface provides grip (Image credit: Future)

There's a removable plastic drip tray for your espresso cup, which slots into place below the groupset. It's nicely made — but, unfortunately, it isn't designed to accommodate a larger cup if you want to use your espresso as the foundation for a long drink.

The Baristina doesn't have a steam wand or automatic milk-frothing system. However, if you want to make milky drinks such as lattes and cappuccinos, it's available bundled with a standalone milk frother.

The standard Philips Baristina (which I tested here) has a single hopper, but there's also a model called the Baristina Variety, which has a larger dual hopper so you can choose between two different beans or roasts on-the-fly.

Design score: 5/5

Philips Baristina: performance

Super easy to use, with no need to weigh or measure
Produced well-extracted espresso in tests
Easier to keep clean than a typical bean-to-cup machine
Grind size can't be changed

The Philips Baristina is a beginner-friendly espresso machine that combines the convenience of a bean-to-cup coffee maker with the easy cleanup of a manual one. To use it, just fill the water tank and bean hopper, gently push the empty portafilter handle into place, and slide it to the right under the coffee grinder. Choose your drink (espresso or lungo), hit the extra intensity button if you like, and the machine will get to work.

The appropriate dosage of coffee will be ground and dispensed directly into the filter basket, then tamped down evenly. Once it's ready, the machine will slide the handle to the left so it sits under the brew group, and extract your drink into your waiting espresso cup. You never touch the coffee grounds yourself, and there's no need to weigh or measure anything.

Philips Baristina espresso machine dispensing a shot of espresso — The Baristina's pressurized filter basket produces plenty of crema (Image credit: Future)

When the Baristina is done and your coffee is ready, the handle will be unlocked so you can pull it out, knock the puck of used coffee grounds into your food waste bin, and clean the basket. It's a lot easier than cleaning up a conventional bean-to-cup coffee maker, which involves pulling out the drip tray to clean out used coffee grounds, removing a side panel to take out and rinse the brew group, wiping up any stray coffee grounds inside the machine's casing, and leaving the whole thing open to dry so it doesn't grow mold.

The biggest drawback of the Baristina is that there's no way to change the grind size, so if your drink tastes under- or over-extracted (sour or bitter), you'll need to experiment with different types of coffee until you find something that works with the machine's default setup.

Philips Baristina espresso machine portafilter with used coffee grounds — During my tests, the used coffee grounds always formed a dry, solid puck, showing that the coffee was properly extracted (Image credit: Future)

It's also worth noting that while manual coffee makers give you a choice of single and double filter baskets, with double (pressurized) and single walls, the Baristina's basket is integrated into the handle and can't be removed. Again, this limits customization, but it's unlikely to be a concern for those looking for their first espresso machine, or upgrading from a capsule coffee maker.

Performance score: 4.5/5

Should you buy the Philips Baristina?

Philips Baristina score card
Attribute	Notes	Score
Value	The most affordable bean-to-cup coffee maker I've tested – and one that doesn't skimp on quality.	5/5
Design	Simple, compact and stylish, without the tricky clean-up associated with most automatic coffee makers – although it lacks a steam wand.	4.5/5
Performance	Quick and easy to use, even for beginners, and produces great results with the right beans. Grind size can't be adjusted, but at this price it's tough to complain.	4.5/5

Buy it if

You're on a budget

This is the most affordable bean-to-cup coffee maker I've tested, and Philips hasn't cut corners to achieve its affordable price tag.View Deal

You want to upgrade from coffee capsules

The Philips Baristina is just as convenient as a capsule coffee maker, but without the hassle of having to recycle the pods (which can be difficult, depending on the facilities in your area).View Deal

Don't buy it if

You want to experiment with different beans

The Baristina doesn't offer any way to customize the grind size, so you'll have to stick with coffees that work well with its default settings. There's nothing you can do to change the extraction rate.View Deal

Philips Baristina: also consider

If the Philips Baristina doesn't sound like the right coffee maker for you, take a look at these two highly rated alternatives:

De'Longhi Dedica Duo

If you're feeling a bit more adventurous and want more control over your coffee, this is the best entry-level manual espresso machine I've tested in the past couple of years. You'll need a separate coffee grinder, but this setup provides more scope for experimentation.

Read our full De'Longhi Dedica Duo reviewView Deal

De'Longhi La Specialista Arte Evo

This semi-automatic coffee maker doesn't have a spring-fired portafilter so you'll come into contact with loose coffee, but it gives you a lot more brewing options than the Baristina, and is a good way to start developing your home barista skills.

Read our full De'Longhi La Specialista Arte Evo reviewView Deal

How I tested the Philips Baristina

I used the Philips Baristina for two weeks with my usual regular and decaffeinated coffee beans, freshly bought from a local coffee roaster. I used fresh tap water, and compared the taste of the coffee with that from my usual Gaggia Classic espresso machine. I used both the regular espresso and lungo options, with and without the "intensity boost" feature. I cleaned the portafilter between each drink, and flushed the brewing group with hot water by pressing and holding one of the control buttons.

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