Organizer
Gadget news
Fezibo Executive B standing desk review
12:57 pm | December 15, 2023

Author: admin | Category: Computers Gadgets Pro | Comments: Off

The Fezibo Executive B standing desk is a high-quality standing desk that commands your attention wherever you put it—the name is the only boring thing about it. It's certainly one to consider for the best standing desk, regardless of whether you're building out your home office or looking to make a clear statement at work.

Image 1 of 7

Fezibo Executive B standing desk shot from the side.

(Image credit: Andreas Theodorou)
Image 2 of 7

Fezibo Executive B standing desk shot from the opposite side.

(Image credit: Andreas Theodorou)
Image 3 of 7

Fezibo Executive B standing desk shot from the opposite side.

(Image credit: Andreas Theodorou)
Image 4 of 7

Fezibo Executive B standing desk shot in full.

(Image credit: Andreas Theodorou)
Image 5 of 7

Fezibo Executive B standing desk control module.

(Image credit: Andreas Theodorou)
Image 6 of 7

Fezibo Executive B standing desk with monitor stand.

(Image credit: Andreas Theodorou)
Image 7 of 7

Fezibo Executive B standing desk shot from the front.

(Image credit: Andreas Theodorou)

Fezibo Executive B: Specs

The materials are fairly premium, well-finished, and weighty—coming in at over 100 KG. You're not going to get real, solid walnut on a desk that costs US$799.99 (£699.99). Instead, you're getting veneered chipboard. Don't let that put you off, though, because a lot of thought went into making this desk, and it shows.

Because it's an L-shaped standing desk with built-in drawers, shelves, and a cabinet, there's a bit more to consider than with your standard I-shaped desk. Take a look at the image below to see the exact measurements of the desk.

Fezibo Executive B standing desk measurements

Be sure to measure your room before buying—this isn't something small that you can just shove in the corner of a room. (Image credit: Fezibo)

Note: the site claims the desk raises up to 115 cm (46 inches) from the floor, but I got it to 119 cm without issue—that should be high enough for most people. I'm 5 foot 7 inches, and use the desk quite high at 93.5 cm for standing, so it should accommodate anyone up to 6 foot 8 inches with relative ease.

The Fezibo Executive B standing desk showing a height of 119 cm

I managed to max out the desk height at 119 cm. (Image credit: Andreas Theodorou)

Fezibo Executive B: Shipping & unboxing

The desk shipped a lot quicker than expected and arrived in 3 boxes (one for the main desktop, one for the motorized frame, and one for everything else), which is incredibly helpful because it would be impossible to carry everything together.

Even with the 3 packages, you'll still need a strong second person to help you with the main box. Otherwise, you'll have to do what I did and open the box downstairs and move everything upstairs piece by piece.

Photograph of the Fezibo Executive B standing desk packaging showing a forklift.

Seeing this on the box didn't fill me with the greatest confidence. (Image credit: Andreas Theodorou)

Thankfully, everything was thoroughly padded and secured within the box, and even though the frame's box had a hole in it (for whatever reason, I'm unsure) it was totally unscathed. A lot of thought has gone into the packaging to ensure the desk arrives safely and securely, and I'm immensely grateful for that because I don't think it was handled delicately by the courier.

Fezibo Executive B: Assembly

There's a certain joy that can only come from having every single part of a flat-packed piece of furniture labeled, with clear, image-led instructions that make it almost impossible to go wrong. 74 steps might seem intimidating, but many of them are just images of how the elements should look when you've completed that set of steps.

An Allen key is included in the assembly kit, but not a screwdriver. I don't really mind this, and you'll see why if you continue on to the monitor stand. You're going to want to bring a decent screwdriver and a drill to put this together, but that shouldn't be too much for most people.

Fezibo labels every part of the desk assembly.

(Image credit: Andreas Theodorou)

I recently bought a chest of drawers from a particular hardware store, and that was far more difficult to put together than this, despite being an order of magnitude simpler. 

Putting the desk together was incredibly easy, but that doesn't mean it was quick. All in all, this desk took me six hours to build, which may seem like a lot, but bear in mind that I wasn't trying to speedrun putting this together. I took my time with it, had a few cups of tea, stepped back every once in a while to observe how it was all coming together, and generally made the most of the event.

Image 1 of 2

Fezibo Executive B standing desk assembly instructions manual.

(Image credit: Andreas Theodorou)
Image 2 of 2

Fezibo Executive B standing desk instructions.

(Image credit: Andreas Theodorou)

The only issue I encountered during my construction was that, if you don't screw in the drawer brackets enough, the runners will catch on the screws.

Fezibo Executive B: First impressions

Straight away this desk absolutely stunned me. I love the way it sits in any space with a sense of professional grace that's hard to find with a lot of modern desks—especially standing desks. This isn't just another clumped-together piece of wood and metal that you have to break your back for every time you want to adjust it.

In short, it's aesthetically beautiful, deeply intuitive to use, and wonderfully practical.

When it comes to the on-board motor, it's smooth and consistent, and the control module offers plenty of customization. The only downside I could find, and this is incredibly minor, was that it doesn't have any built-in device charging capabilities.

Fezibo Executive B standing desk shot in full.

(Image credit: Andreas Theodorou)

Fezibo Executive B: Design & build quality

The Executive B desk only comes with two options: 

  • Dark walnut with black accents
  • Light walnut with white accents

It's limited compared to the options with some of Fezibo's other desks, so I would like to see more customization on offer with the control mechanism and the color configurations.

When it comes to the quality of the materials, the chipboard may put some people off. However, the simple reality is that it compromises a sturdy build with cost-saving materials. If it was solid wood, you'd be paying a whole lot more for little noticeable difference.

I only found one small fault with the quality, and that was a lack of coverage for the connecting screws on the shelves. The simple inclusion of two black stickers to cover them would offer an additional layer of protection for any books or trinkets I would want to put on there.

Fezibo Executive B standing desk shelving with connecting screws showing.

These little screws may seem unassuming, but if you catch a book on them, they could cause some serious damage. (Image credit: Andreas Theodorou)

It'll come as no surprise that a lot of thought and care went into the design of this desk, and it shows. The quality is there, and if you follow the build and usage instructions properly, it should last you a long, long time.

If that's not enough, the control module comes with a five-year warranty, so you know you're getting your money's worth.

Fezibo Executive B: In use

What I haven't mentioned so far, is that I built this desk in my bedroom (where my old desk used to be) before partially disassembling it and moving it into my tiny living  room where I intend to use it every day moving forward.

The Fezibo Executive B desk in Andreas Theodorou's living room.

This is how the desk is really being used: as a functioning office space as I work from home and game online. (Image credit: Andreas Theodorou)

Moving the desk was surprisingly easy, I unbolted the main desktop, detached the lifting mechanism, and found myself with three sections: the main desktop, the shelving unit/left leg, and the secondary desktop with the drawers and cabinet still attached.

Together, my partner and I managed to maneuver it into the living room without issue, and here it now lives. Moving this desk was a useful stress test to see what it would be like if ever I were to move office elsewhere. If and when I eventually move this out of here, I'll likely dismantle it further to get it down the stairs safely, but for a two-dimensional shift, it's a quick and easy move.

As for the day-to-day of raising and lowering the desk, the motor handles everything seamlessly, and the multiple settings mean that I can customize it for both my seating and standing positions, as well as for my partner's, too. If something's not quite right, I can always check the information that came with the control module.

Fezibo Executive B: Accessories

Alongside the desk, I also got my hands on a couple of accessories from Fezibo to make the desk feel more personal:

  • The Cord Management Organizer Kit: I wanted to see how much of a difference it made to my cable management beyond the sticky cable ties already offered with the desk.
  • The 65 cm by 22 cm Monitor Stand with Pen Tray: I like to make the most of shelving on a desk, and the monitor stand is a great way to both accentuate the desk and increase its practicality, depending on your setup.

The cable management kit offers some incredibly useful gear, including modular sleeves to hide your wiring, sticky cable grippers of various sizes, zip ties, and a variety of fabric pull and velcro ties. It's a simple and effective add-on to make your setup sleek and seamless, but I had a few minor gripes.

Fezibo's cord management kit contents

(Image credit: Fezibo)

You certainly get your money's worth with this bundle—it's enough to organize two or three desks. However, I think it would be improved by removing some zip ties and the second roll of velcro tape, and including more sleeves and some of the sticky under-desk cable clips that come as standard with the Executive B standing desk.

Fezibo Executive B standing desk with monitor stand.

I got the smaller 65 cm x 22 cm stand because the 110 cm x 22 cm one is too big for the side-desk. (Image credit: Andreas Theodorou)

The monitor stand is another great example of how you can personalize the desk to fit your needs. Personally, I mount my monitor on an arm, but I love using these types of stands as additional shelving and organizational elements for my setup.

I did notice, however, that the stand had some minor quality issues, but nothing I would actually pay attention to/notice during day-to-day use. That said, the tool that came with it to set it up was so low quality, that the few turns it took to assemble the stand resulted in its total deformation.

I'd rather just know that I have to bring my own screwdriver, like with the desk, instead of being given something that's not fit for purpose. This would also reduce the cost of the stand, even if only by a fraction.

Image 1 of 2

Close-up of the corner of the Fezibo monitor stand showing slight defects.

The marks are small and not that noticeable, but they're still there. (Image credit: Andreas Theodorou)
Image 2 of 2

Close-up of the assembly tool from the Fezibo monitor stand.

It was absolutely mangled after a few turns. (Image credit: Andreas Theodorou)

Fezibo Executive B: Final verdict

I genuinely struggled to find a fault with this that I couldn't put down to user error. Despite all of my stress tests, moving it from room to room, and actively trying to make it struggle under the weight of my setup, it powered through with elegance and resolve.

Even the little nitty-gritty things I did find were so minor that I honestly forgot about them after five minutes of using the desk. I'd still like to see some black stickers included with the desk to cover the silver connecting screws, but nothing is stopping me from just buying some online if it bothers me (which it doesn't).

If you're just wanting to put a small laptop and a notebook on this desk, it may feel a bit sparse, so I'd recommend it for anyone running a proper desktop setup that's going to fully utilize the space and features on offer.

To put it simply, I love this desk. The way it classes up any space you put it in, how practical and intuitive it is, and even the functionality of the control module—everything works like you'd want it to, and I don't think I could ask much more of it. Whether you're considering this for work or at home, US$799.99 (£699.99) is no small sum of money. 

It's most definitely an investment, but in my opinion (as someone who works from home every day) it's worth every penny to get a high-quality product that is as practical as it is beautiful. Now I just need to get myself a good standing desk mat so I can make the most of it all.

Bambu Labs A1 3D printer review
5:01 pm | December 14, 2023

Author: admin | Category: Computers Gadgets Pro | Comments: Off

Bambu Labs has built a reputation as a disruptor in the 3D print world. Their Core XY machines arrived on the scene with speeds and accuracy that were hard to beat; if the speed and accuracy weren't enough, the AMS multi-filament system took the machines to another level. 

A short while ago, we saw a departure from their Core XY machines with the arrival of the Bambu Labs A1 Mini, one of the best 3D printers we've reviewed. It boasted a speed and accuracy that was hard to beat, only matched by the recent updates to the excellent Official Prusa Mini. 

Bambu Labs A1

(Image credit: Alastair Jennings)

Now, the Bambu Labs A1 Mini has arrived and is available as either a single filament machine or, once again, sold as a combo that includes the AMS Lite. While that system does take up quite a bit of desk space, it's nothing compared with some other systems that are emerging, but what really makes it stand out is the simplicity.

Bambu Labs A1

(Image credit: Alastair Jennings)

The setup is straightforward, and in true Bambu style, an alternative AMS Lite mount was sent through as a print file, just in case I want to pop the AMS system on top of the printer rather than on the desk to the side. After trying both, my personal preference is for the AMS to sit next to, not on top of, the machine, but there's that option. That flexibility is another big feature of the Bambu Labs kit. Like the P1P, there's the ability to adapt.

Once again, Bambu has done what they have built a name around: listening and innovating, and the A1, from the outset, looks set to impress.

Bambu Labs A1: Design

Bambu Labs A1

(Image credit: Alastair Jennings)
SPECS

Print Technology: Fused Filament Fabrication (FFF)
Build Area: 256 x 256 x 256 mm³
Minimum Layer Resolution: 
Maximum Layer Resolution: 
Dimensions: 386 x 389 x 458 mm
Weight: 9.65 kg
Bed: up to 80ºC
Print Surface: Textured
Software: Bambu Studio (Supports third-party software)
Materials: PLA, ABS, PETG, ASA, etc.
Print Speed: Up to 500 mm/s, with top acceleration at 10000 mm/s²

Bambu Labs doesn't so much break the mould as rework it, and that's exactly what has happened with the A1. On the surface, a cursory first look would highlight the typical Cartesian design, nothing out of the ordinary aside from the very slick-looking LCD touchscreen and beautifully designed tool head. 

As is now common with these printers, the A1 comes almost completely assembled, so it's just a few screws and wires plugged in, and you'll be up and running. The setup process took less than half an hour, and there's really nothing that would confuse the entire process. I also liked the fact that the manual is a little more specific about the printer position during the setup process, giving you tips about using a table to ensure easy mounting of the vertical section. 

While you get to see some of the construction as you bolt in the verticle, it's only when you start to look closer that you start to see the Bambu in the design. Details such as the horizontal bar that features an intricate metal mount that attaches to the vertical, and then there's the base, which is that slight futuristic off-white that we saw used on the A1 Mini and AMS lite. The overall finish, although familiar in design, looks futuristic. 

Bambu Labs A1 review

(Image credit: Alastair Jennings)

Even the single filament reel holder and filament run-out sensor have something of the future about them. Then there's the slightly crazy AMS Lite design with the four reels mounted two aside. This design is inspired as the reels are clearly labelled, and when it comes to printing, it's incredibly easy to allocate filaments to the different parts of the model if you've set that up in the software. 

As with the A1 Mini, the AMS Lite sits to the side, although there is the option to top mount this with a 3D printed part if you want. This means that if you do go multi-filament, then it takes up a little extra room on the desktop, but it is worth it for this printer's abilities. 

One point on the design. What is well worth going into is the fast switch nozzles; these literally release and enable you to insert new or alternative nozzles, with the system recognising them as soon as they're inserted. 

When it comes to the design, the machine looks outwardly simple, but look closely, and the quality and details are well beyond that of many printers that are around the same price or only marginally cheaper. 

Bambu Labs A1: Features

Bambu Labs A1

(Image credit: Alastair Jennings)

Positioned as a user-friendly, entry-level device, the Bambu Lab A1 integrates several innovative features. Key highlights include its intuitive 3.5-inch IPS touchscreen, offering a smartphone-like user experience, and the Health Management System (HMS), which's for the machine, not you, that assists through all operational steps and troubleshooting. 

The printer, if brought as the combo, features the AMS Lite system for multi-material printing, supporting up to four colours. Bambu Lab's machines are known for speed, and here, the A1 offers a top printing rate of 500mm/s and a 10000 mm/s² acceleration, made possible by performing vibration calibration for both X and Y axes at each print's start. This calibration accounts for the printer's tension and environmental temperature, enhancing accuracy. There is the option to skip this when you load files, but for the couple of minutes that it takes, it's worth leaving it to do its thing. 

Additionally, the Eddy Current sensor in the hotend actively compensates the extrusion flow rate, ensuring stable extrusion throughout the printing process; as the machine primes, you can see this system suck in and out the filament as it measures the properties before starting the print. 

Bambu Labs A1 review

(Image credit: Alastair Jennings)

The A1's design features all-metal rails and linear bearings for extra rigidity and accuracy, with minimal maintenance requirements. Its advanced filament monitoring system goes beyond filament presence detection, measuring various aspects like filament speed, tension, and pressure.

The HMS system can pause prints upon detecting problems and aids diagnosis, such as giving you some suggestions as to what has gone amiss.

One of the big features is the Quick Swap Hotends for easy maintenance and swapping for different diameter nozzles. It's all very user-friendly, but at the same time, there's a lot here for a beginner to get to grips with.

Bambu Labs A1: Performance

Bambu Labs A1 review

(Image credit: Alastair Jennings)
Bambu Labs A1: Test results

Dimensional accuracy - score of 5 

Target 25 = X: 24.90mm / 0.10mm Error | Y: 24.83mm / 0.17mm Error
Target 20 = X: 19.94mm / 0.06mm Error | Y: 19.85mm / 0.15mm Error
Target 15 = X: 14.92mm / 0.08mm Error | Y: 14.91mm / 0.09mm Error
Target 10 = X: 9.92mm / 0.08mm Error | Y: 9.88mm / 0.12mm Error
Target 5 = X: 4.95mm / 0.05mm Error | Y: 4.91xmm / 0.09mm Error 

X Error Average = 0.074mm
Y Error Average = 0.124mm
X&Y Error Average = 0.099mm

Fine Flow Control - score of 5
Fine Negative Features - score of 5
Overhangs - score of 4
Bridging - score of 5
XY resonance - score of 2.5
Z-axis alignment - score of 2.5

Adding up the totals gives a final score of 29 out of 30.

The Bambu Labs A1's print quality test results reveal its high accuracy in precision and detailing, with an overall score of 29 out of 30. The dimensional accuracy score of 5, with X and Y error averages of 0.074mm and 0.124mm, respectively, indicates exceptional precision in reproducing model dimensions. This makes it ideal for applications requiring fine details and accuracy; ensuring you have a good support material in place will enable you to print highly detailed models that are closer to what you could expect to print with a resin printer. 

The printer excels in fine flow control and fine negative features, both scoring 5, demonstrating its ability to handle intricate details and complex geometries. It also performs well in bridging (score of 5) and overhangs (score of 4), further emphasising its capability to print challenging designs. 

Overall, these results position the A1 as a versatile printer suitable for a range of applications, from detailed models to robust prototypes.

Bambu Labs A1: Verdict

Bambu Labs A1 review

(Image credit: Alastair Jennings)

The Bambu Labs A1 3D printer is a notable entrant in the 3D printing arena, presenting itself as a disruptor. Known for their Core XY machines, Bambu Labs' A1 Mini was a departure from the company's usual style of machine as far as it was a compact bed slinger; however, the speed, while not Core XY, was still beyond anything else at the time, now the A1 with it's larger build area and more robust build is set to take on the middle ground.

The A1, available as a single or multi-filament machine with the AMS Lite, stands out for its simplicity and versatility. The A1's design is both futuristic and practical, offering a fast-switch nozzle system and a user-friendly experience. 

However, if you're a beginner, while this is a great machine and really difficult to fault, the complexity beneath the surface can require some knowledge, and the software, even in its simplest form, can take some getting used to. 

OK, so the A1 offers more than anything else in its class and takes on the best of the Cartesian, including the Original Prusa MK4, but is this all too much? It's rare to say, but for the price, I feel it's just too cheap and doesn't leave any room at the lower and now mid-range of the market. The A1 takes a tried and tested design and essentially turbo charges it so that there really is little to fault, as was seen by the print quality. My only reservation is the open design, which restricts where it can be used. 

Deeno GT X1500 portable power station review
8:28 pm | December 13, 2023

Author: admin | Category: Computers Gadgets Pro | Comments: Off

I’ve tested plenty of the best portable power stations, so when I opened the Deeno GT X1500 Portable Power Station box, I was pleased to see a simple setup: the power station, cabling, and documentation. 

I noticed a multitude of ports on the front of the power station and a light bar on the back. I also quickly saw some unique expanding carry handles and a built-in wireless charger on the top. 

Deeno GT X1500: Design & build

Deeno GT X1500

(Image credit: Collin Probst // Future)
Specifications

Capacity: 1036Wh
Charge Cycles: 3500
Weight and Dimensions: 5.47 x 8.94 x 9.41in
Ports: 3x AC ports, 3x USB-A, 2x USB-C, 1x Car outlet, 2x DC5.5 

The overall design of the Deeno X1500 Portable Power Station is compact and straightforward. Everything is clear and simple, which helps with its easy operation. The handles on the side are big enough even for large hands, and because Deeno chose to make these handles expanding, near telescoping, they are relatively comfortable to carry.

Because of these handles, I could carry this power station with one hand, with things on top of the power station, and both without any problems. Because this power station's handles expand when in use, they also retract when not in use, allowing them to hide away, making the top flat.

To continue the great design features, the back of the X1500 has a built-in light bar that can light up a campsite, a dark room in a power outage, or my living room when I was swapping out basic toggle light switches with smart switches. On the bottom, Deeno chose to add rubberized feet for added grip so that the bottom of the X1500 doesn't get scratched up, but also to help ensure that the power station does not slide around unwanted. Deeno also added a QI charger on the top of the X1500, which any QI-enabled device can use.

Deeno GTX1500: In use

Deeno GT X1500

(Image credit: Collin Probst // Future)

I've loved having the Deeno GTX1500 living in the back of my Jeep. When I work on house projects, I can easily access power in my front yard to work on my garage without running any extension cords. Or, when I am recharging drill batteries, running a shop vac, or bringing my bike to a riding trail, I can get an electric pump to fill the tires upon arrival.

The Deeno GT X1500 Portable Power Station can run with 12 available ports. I have also been impressed with how much power draw I can run on this device. I can run full carpet cleaners, shop vacs, charge drills, and space heaters from the X1500.

I took this power station camping with my son a few months back. I could confidently bring only this power station for a few day trips as our power supply. We ran a couple of lights at night, charged my phone and watch, and kept some flashlights up. This camping trip was low-key, but relaxing without worrying about power was fantastic.

Deeno GT X1500

(Image credit: Collin Probst // Future)

I have also enjoyed charging on the top of the X1500 wirelessly. While it was convenient, I wished that some part of the Qi charger was rubberized to help hold my iPhone while charring. However, it is an excellent time to use the charger.

Carrying portable power stations is rarely a fun role. Usually, though mobile, these power stations are heavy when you have one that has a large capacity. To help counter the difficulty or struggle of carrying the power station, Deeno added specialty handles that extend to help give more grip room and a bit of cushion. When not in use, the handles collapse so that the top of the power station is flat, allowing for easy packing or storing.

Recharging the Deeno GT X1500 takes longer than desired, though it's pretty decent. The size of this power station for the capacity and ports is pretty great. I can fit it anywhere needed, and I cannot worry about power wherever I am on the road, working, or camping. Further, whenever there is a bad storm, I can carry this power station inside as a UPS for my internet, a few lights, and anything else deemed vital by my family.

Deeno GTX1500: Verdict

Deeno GT X1500

(Image credit: Collin Probst // Future)

 The Deeno GT X1500 is a fantastic Portable Power Station for the size and the money. There is a tremendous selection of ports, solid output, excellent build quality, and a great price. I have had zero issues with something not working or breaking, nor do I have concerns moving forward. If you are looking for a quality mid-size Portable Power Station, consider the Deeno GT X1500 before making your final decision. 

Deeno GT X1500 portable power station review
8:28 pm |

Author: admin | Category: Computers Gadgets Pro | Comments: Off

I’ve tested plenty of the best portable power stations, so when I opened the Deeno GT X1500 Portable Power Station box, I was pleased to see a simple setup: the power station, cabling, and documentation. 

I noticed a multitude of ports on the front of the power station and a light bar on the back. I also quickly saw some unique expanding carry handles and a built-in wireless charger on the top. 

Deeno GT X1500: Design & build

Deeno GT X1500

(Image credit: Collin Probst // Future)
Specifications

Capacity: 1036Wh
Charge Cycles: 3500
Weight and Dimensions: 5.47 x 8.94 x 9.41in
Ports: 3x AC ports, 3x USB-A, 2x USB-C, 1x Car outlet, 2x DC5.5 

The overall design of the Deeno X1500 Portable Power Station is compact and straightforward. Everything is clear and simple, which helps with its easy operation. The handles on the side are big enough even for large hands, and because Deeno chose to make these handles expanding, near telescoping, they are relatively comfortable to carry.

Because of these handles, I could carry this power station with one hand, with things on top of the power station, and both without any problems. Because this power station's handles expand when in use, they also retract when not in use, allowing them to hide away, making the top flat.

To continue the great design features, the back of the X1500 has a built-in light bar that can light up a campsite, a dark room in a power outage, or my living room when I was swapping out basic toggle light switches with smart switches. On the bottom, Deeno chose to add rubberized feet for added grip so that the bottom of the X1500 doesn't get scratched up, but also to help ensure that the power station does not slide around unwanted. Deeno also added a QI charger on the top of the X1500, which any QI-enabled device can use.

Deeno GTX1500: In use

Deeno GT X1500

(Image credit: Collin Probst // Future)

I've loved having the Deeno GTX1500 living in the back of my Jeep. When I work on house projects, I can easily access power in my front yard to work on my garage without running any extension cords. Or, when I am recharging drill batteries, running a shop vac, or bringing my bike to a riding trail, I can get an electric pump to fill the tires upon arrival.

The Deeno GT X1500 Portable Power Station can run with 12 available ports. I have also been impressed with how much power draw I can run on this device. I can run full carpet cleaners, shop vacs, charge drills, and space heaters from the X1500.

I took this power station camping with my son a few months back. I could confidently bring only this power station for a few day trips as our power supply. We ran a couple of lights at night, charged my phone and watch, and kept some flashlights up. This camping trip was low-key, but relaxing without worrying about power was fantastic.

Deeno GT X1500

(Image credit: Collin Probst // Future)

I have also enjoyed charging on the top of the X1500 wirelessly. While it was convenient, I wished that some part of the Qi charger was rubberized to help hold my iPhone while charring. However, it is an excellent time to use the charger.

Carrying portable power stations is rarely a fun role. Usually, though mobile, these power stations are heavy when you have one that has a large capacity. To help counter the difficulty or struggle of carrying the power station, Deeno added specialty handles that extend to help give more grip room and a bit of cushion. When not in use, the handles collapse so that the top of the power station is flat, allowing for easy packing or storing.

Recharging the Deeno GT X1500 takes longer than desired, though it's pretty decent. The size of this power station for the capacity and ports is pretty great. I can fit it anywhere needed, and I cannot worry about power wherever I am on the road, working, or camping. Further, whenever there is a bad storm, I can carry this power station inside as a UPS for my internet, a few lights, and anything else deemed vital by my family.

Deeno GTX1500: Verdict

Deeno GT X1500

(Image credit: Collin Probst // Future)

 The Deeno GT X1500 is a fantastic Portable Power Station for the size and the money. There is a tremendous selection of ports, solid output, excellent build quality, and a great price. I have had zero issues with something not working or breaking, nor do I have concerns moving forward. If you are looking for a quality mid-size Portable Power Station, consider the Deeno GT X1500 before making your final decision. 

CrowVision review
2:30 pm | December 11, 2023

Author: admin | Category: Computers Gadgets Pro | Tags: | Comments: Off

The CrowVision is a neat little touch screen that unlocks the potential of single-board computers by offering a display with touch capability.  

Specifications

Chipset: RTD2556

Connectors: 1 x HDMI, 1 x USB micro for touchscreen, 1 x 2.5mm audio socket, 1 x Type-A female for DC power

Touchscreen: 5 points capacitive

Display size: 11.6 inch

Display technology: IPS

Display brightness: 250nits

Weight: 590g

Dimensions: 291 mm x 155 mm x 24 mm

Power Consumption: 1W

With an 11.6-inch diagonal length at a resolution of 1366x768 pixels representing a density of 135ppi, the IPS panel is crisp and can be viewed at a maximum angle of 178 degrees. The touch panel is accessible through a USB micro socket, and a mini HDMI provides the only way to connect to a display adapter.

The product is shipped with all accessories to hook to the most popular SBCs. ElecCrow claims compatibility with at least nine models, thanks to an innovative screw technology to mount boards equipped with at least three holes. The display PCB has a built-in 5V 15W voltage regulator, which should be enough to power the latest Raspberry Pi, but no USB hub or speaker.

The CrowVision touch screen from ElecCrow has already raised over USD 10,000 on the CrowdSupply website and will be available by April 2024 for $99. Accessories include a mounting kit, various cables, a small PCB to control the display remotely, and a screwdriver. 

CrowVision: Design

The ElecCrow CrowVision display ships in a foam that guarantees the glass panel will arrive pristine to the end user. A thin plastic film prevents accidental scratches but should be removed once the unit is installed. The black glossy screen measures 29.1 x 15.5 x 2.4 cm with a 1.5 cm edge. At the back, a 3M double-sided tape fixes the display in an appropriate enclosure without screws. The screen weighs 590g and requires a 12V adapter to work.

The package contains four cables, one 12V power adapter, a small screwdriver, a pair of plastic holders, two velcro straps, and a small PCB to control the display remotely. Connectors at the back of the screen are well-labeled, making the supplied paper user manual redundant.

Mounted at the back is the main circuit board, which converts the screen eDP format into the more common HDMI standard. Five push buttons serve as a control for the on-screen display menu and for turning the screen on. The only display input is a mini HDMI 1.4 that supports the native 720p resolution of the LCD. A USB Type-B socket connects the touchscreen to the host PC, while another USB Type-A supplies 5V at 3A. Also present is a 12V DC socket and a 2.5mm audio port.

Central to the user-friendliness of the CrowVision is a system of mobile screw posts held in place by the screen frame. Three screws are positioned on standoffs and move in two rails, arranged horizontally and vertically on the left. The owner can thus securely mount a small computer measuring up to 100 mm x 80 mm at the back of the screen. Since there is some loose where the standoffs meet the metal frame, mounted boards can move a bit.

CrowVision accessories

(Image credit: Future)

CrowVision: In use

The screen requires only two connectors plugged into an SBC to turn on. In the case of a Raspberry Pi 4, the supplied micro HDMI to mini HDMI and USB cables come in handy. Even though the display does not contain any moving part, turning it on creates a small bleep which seemingly comes from the LCD power supply. Popular OS such as Linux and Windows support the five-point touchscreen.

The on-screen display provides a simple menu that activates when pressing a menu button on the main board or the remote. Settings like color temperature and brightness can be adjusted by the user and saved to non-volatile memory. Volume level, as well as power, are also controlled from both sites. The power button also controls the USB socket, thus affecting power delivered to an SBC if one is connected.

The quality of the LCD is suitable for the price paid. The IPS technology results in large viewing angles and vibrant colors. The screen has a refresh rate of 60Hz at 250nits of brightness. The panel shows some white bleeding at the bottom, which is noticeable on a black background. Power consumption is a meager 1W, a reasonable amount if the display is always on.

Since the CrowVision display is an unfinished product, an enclosure is typically needed to protect the sensitive electronics at the back while giving a more professional look. ElecCrow provides 3D printing files on their GitHub website if owners want to print their enclosure.

CrowVision back

(Image credit: Future)

CrowVision: The competition

Displays for embedded PCs, such as the Raspberry Pi, under $100 are readily available from retailers such as Amazon. Any small display that can provide an HDMI input will do. What makes the CrowVision different is its mounting system and accessories; it just works out of the box.

The official Raspberry Pi 7” display is a contender priced under $60. A multi-touch display panel similar to what is available on the CrowVision makes it an interactive platform. The resolution of the Pi display is lower, offering 800 x 480 pixels. It also lacks an audio output, being based on the DSI interface. Finally, there is no way of controlling the display remotely or adjusting settings such as color temperature and contrast.

CrowVision: Final verdict

 

The CrowVision HD display is an accessory that makes using single-board computers straightforward. The package has everything to start working out of the box. It is relatively simple to assemble and has that professional look that will make any product stand out. At under $100, the price is just right for an 11.6-inch panel. ElecCrow has been creative with the spacers at the back, allowing many sizes of PCBs to be mounted easily.

The main issue with the CrowVision was the resolution, which could have been better. At 1366x768 pixels, using it as a plain old monitor feels a bit overcrowded. A pair of speakers could also have been a great addon. Finally, having more inputs to drive the display would have made it versatile.

Buy it if you need an IPS screen compatible with an incredible number of single-board computers at a relatively low price.

Don’t buy it if you expect a finished product with an enclosure.

We've listed the best portable monitors.

Integral Memory SlimXpress 1TB portable SSD review: a solid performer with a great price tag
1:57 pm | December 8, 2023

Author: admin | Category: Computers Gadgets Pro | Tags: | Comments: Off

Integral Memory SlimXpress: One-minute review

Integral Memory SlimXpress SSD during our tests

(Image credit: Integral )

Integral Memory may not be a household name in the global storage market but it has carved a niche in the UK one where it caught my attention in 2016 by launching what was then the largest SSD ever, the SVR100 and its enormous 8TB capacity. I’ve got myself the SlimXpress, its latest external SSD. There’s no denying that there’s an air of resemblance between Integral Memory’s metal champion and the Netac Z Slim which we recently reviewed. The one we’re reviewing today however differs on three important points: It is available only in the UK, is much faster and has a shorter warranty. Other than that the solid black aluminum chassis that protects the delicate electronic components, the location of the USB port and the short cables lead me to believe that both Netac and Integral are using the same original design manufacturer (ODM). 

The SlimXpress though manages to pull itself ahead of Netac when it comes to pricing and performance, positioning itself as a viable alternative to better established brands, although not by much. Not bigger than a pack of chewing gum (only 106mm x 32mm x 9mm), it offers USB 3.2 Gen 2, which is the highest mainstream speed (USB 4, USB 3.2 Gen 2x2 and Thunderbolt are still very much niche technologies) and I’d wish Integral had bundled a data recovery software or a backup application of some sort. 

Integral Memory SlimXpress: Pricing and availability

Integral Memory SlimXpress SSD during our tests

(Image credit: Integral )
  • How much does it cost? £55.99
  • When is it available? 
  • Where can you get it? It is available in the UK only

As a potential candidate for our best portable SSD buying guide, the SlimXpress loses out on availability as it is a UK-only product. It is available in capacities ranging from 500GB to 4TB; I reviewed the 1TB model. 

Integral Memory SlimXpress: Benchmark

Integral Memory SlimXpress SSD during our tests

(Image credit: Integral )

On the whole, Integral delivered on the advertised 1.05/1GBps speeds, coming close to 1.1GBps on CDM write and inching into 1GBps territory on write, which is admirable. The drive became warm on extensive use which was expected. I didn’t test the drive with the bundled adaptor but I’d recommend sticking to USB Type-C to enjoy the higher transfer rates. 

Integral Memory SlimXpress: Specs

Should I buy the Integral Memory SlimXpress?

Integral Memory SlimXpress SSD during our tests

(Image credit: Integral )

Integral Memory SlimXpress alternatives

The Z Slim from Netac looks like a twin brother to the SlimXpress 1TB and is a good 15% cheaper than its rival with a much longer warranty. However, it is also much slower which reduces its appeal. Just bear in mind though that prices change all the time. As I was finishing this review, Netac introduced a 20% discount on the ZX10, a faster version of the Z Slim. The discount brought down its price in line with the Integral SlimXpress but with a much longer warranty. 

The Crucial X8 is just a few pounds more expensive and matches Integral’s performance while delivering a much longer warranty. The backing of Micron, one of the world’s largest memory manufacturers, gives it the edge on the SlimXpress

The Crucial X6 is a slower, cheaper and smaller version of the X8 above. It competes with the Z Slim but is one to be considered as well due to its longer warranty and the presence of Micron as the parent brand. 

How I tested the Integral Memory SlimXpress

After having formatted the Integral SlimXpress to exFAT, I test it the same way I test other storage components (external HDD, microSD cards etc). I use the latest versions of CrystalDiskMark, Atto, AS SSD and AJA benchmarks, noting the best scores achieved in each. They are all free and can be downloaded by anyone. I then transfer a folder of files, roughly 10GB in size, to get a rough idea of real life performance.

Anycubic Kobra 2 Pro 3D printer review
8:19 pm | December 7, 2023

Author: admin | Category: Computers Gadgets Pro | Comments: Off

The Anycubic Kobra 2 Pro presents itself as a compelling entry-level 3D printer, showcasing several significant upgrades over its predecessor, which we tested out in our Kobra 2 3D printer review

The most notable enhancement is its accelerated printing speed, reaching up to a swift 500mm/s. Additionally, it boasts increased processing power, courtesy of an advanced Cortex-A7 processor, which contributes to its overall improved performance. Visually, the printer features a new tool head with a refined direct extruder and structure designed for producing smoother prints.

However, as with any 'Pro' version, these advancements do come with a higher price tag. We wanted to see whether the enhanced features of the Kobra 2 Pro are worth the extra investment Is it a sensible upgrade or is the more economical Kobra 2 the best 3D printer for enthusiasts?

Anycubic Kobra 2 Pro: Design

Anycubic Kobra 2 Pro with a 3D printed vase

(Image credit: Alastair Jennings)

The Anycubic Kobra 2 Pro makes a strong impression straight out of the box. While bearing a resemblance to the standard Kobra 2 Neo in style, it quickly becomes clear that this model is a substantial upgrade. Key improvements include dual threaded screws, a more robust tool head, and a selection of USB slots on the front for file downloads or feature extensions.

As with the entire Kobra 2 range, this printer adopts an open-frame Cartesian style. This design choice not only makes it easy to use but also educational, with all its workings on display – an excellent feature for beginners eager to learn about the mechanics of 3D printing.

Assembly is user-friendly, thanks to its semi-assembled design and the clear, compact printed manual provided by Anycubic. The construction process should take about 5-10 minutes, presenting no major challenges. However, for those new to 3D printing, having an extra set of hands for the initial assembly can be helpful.

Anycubic Kobra 2 Pro close-up of the LCD screen

(Image credit: Alastair Jennings)


Once constructed and powered on, the printer efficiently handles calibration, and loading the filament into the system is straightforward. Within 30 minutes, you should be ready to start your first print. In this iteration, Anycubic has put considerable effort into developing its own AnycubicSlicer, which is well-tailored for beginners and easy to navigate. For those preferring alternative software, integrating this printer with applications like CURA is uncomplicated.

The design and software of the Kobra 2 Pro synergize well, but what truly elevates this model is the added functionality of controlling the printer via the Anycubic App. This feature enhances the user experience, setting the Kobra 2 Pro apart in its category.

Anycubic Kobra 2 Pro: Features

Anycubic Kobra 2 Pro during our tests

(Image credit: Alastair Jennings)

The 3D printer distinguishes itself with a standout feature: its impressive 10X increase in printing speed. This leap in performance is powered by a high-power processor and an optimized direct extruder, ensuring rapid and precise filament delivery, quick melting and cooling, and smooth operation, significantly reducing layer lines.

When examining its print area, the Kobra 2 Pro occupies a middle ground between the Kobra 2 Neo and the Kobra 2 Plus. While the technological leap from the Neo to the Pro is considerable, the Pro and Plus are nearly identical in terms of technology, differing mainly in size. The same applies to the larger MAX model. The Kobra 2 Pro offers a print area of 220x220x250mm, fitting comfortably within the range.

Specs

Print Technology: Fused Deposition Modeling (FDM)

Build Area: 250 x 220 x 220 mm

Minimum Layer Resolution: 0.08

Maximum Layer Resolution: 0.28

Dimensions: 486 x 435 x 463 mm (HWD)

Weight: 8.4 kg

Bed: Heated Textured Flexible Removable Platform (PEI Magnetic Spring Steel)

Print Surface: Textured PEI Magnetic Spring Steel

Software: Compatible with major slicing software; specifics not provided (Cura, PrusaSlicer compatibility expected)

Materials: PLA, ABS, PETG, TPU, etc.

Print Speed: 500mm/s (Max.), 300mm/s (Typical)

Another key feature is the advanced LeviQ 2.0 automatic levelling system, which meticulously checks 25 points across the print platform. Utilizing an inductive sensor, it intelligently compensates for any surface irregularities, aiming to deliver a perfect first layer every time. Additionally, the machine incorporates a Dual-shaft Core with SG15 Bearings to enhance accuracy, opting for a Double threaded rod instead of the Double motor Double Z-axis found in the Plus and Max models.

The Kobra 2 Pro is equipped with a filament run-out sensor, a feature that is now pretty common and really an absolute essential. This sensor plays a crucial role in ensuring continuous print. It detects the end of the filament if it runs out unexpectedly, with the result that it will automatically pause the print. 

At the heart of the 3D printer's user interface is its responsive touch screen, offering a seamless and intuitive way to interact with the printer. This 4.3-inch LCD provides easy navigation through menus, allowing you to quickly access and modify print settings, monitor ongoing jobs, and control the printer with ease. The screen features an intuitive interface, which is particularly helpful for beginners.

The printer's high-power processor is another highlight, offering abundant computing power for faster processing and smoother motor movements, thus markedly improving printing speed over previous models.

While the Kobra 2 Pro does not include built-in video monitoring, it is designed to work with the forthcoming Anycubic app for remote networking and control. The inclusion of 3 USB ports on the front facilitates direct file loading and will support camera connectivity for enhanced monitoring capabilities once available.

Anycubic Kobra 2 Pro: Performance

Anycubic Kobra 2 Pro close-up of mechanism

(Image credit: Alastair Jennings)

Throughout our testing phase, the Kobra 2 Pro showcased its versatility and quality by successfully printing a variety of models from Anycubic, downloaded sources, and user-created designs. Initially, some minor dimensional accuracy issues were encountered, but these were swiftly rectified by adjusting the belt tensions, as clearly guided by the manual.

Post-calibration, the Kobra 2 Pro demonstrated a notable improvement in print quality, surpassing the performance of the Kobra 2 Neo. Its dimensional accuracy, with an average error margin of just 0.128mm, marks it as an ideal tool for model makers and product designers who rely on precise dimensions in their work. The printer's exceptional fine flow control, scoring perfectly, signifies its adeptness at managing intricate details and producing smooth surfaces, making it a great fit for crafting and decorative projects.

Anycubic Kobra 2 Pro close-up

(Image credit: Alastair Jennings)

The printer's proficiency in bridging, evident in its ability to handle complex geometries and overhangs, extends its utility to architectural models and functional parts in product design. Its compatibility with various materials, achieving minimal stringing and excellent layer adhesion, broadens its appeal to an array of users, including hobbyists and crafters. However, its open design may limit its suitability in educational settings and some office environments, where enclosed printers are often preferred for safety and noise considerations.

Overall, the Kobra 2 Pro emerges as a strong, reliable, and versatile 3D printer. It excels in balancing speed, quality, and user-friendliness, making it an attractive option for hobbyists, crafters, and product designers, as well as for more intricate work in model-making and crafting.

Anycubic Kobra 2 Pro: Print quality

Dimensional accuracy - score of 4 

Target 25 = X: 24.83mm / 0.17mm Error | Y: 24.97mm / 0.03mm Error 

Target 20 = X: 19.94mm / 0.06mm Error | Y: 19.78mm / 0.22mm Error 

Target 15 = X: 14.92mm / 0.08mm Error | Y: 14.76mm / 0.24mm Error 

Target 10 = X: 9.82mm / 0.18mm Error | Y: 9.77mm / 0.23mm Error 

Target 5 = X: 5.05mm / 0.05mm Error | Y: 4.98mm / 0.02mm Error 

X Error Average = 0.108

Y Error Average = 0.148

X&Y Error Average = 0.128

Fine Flow Control - score of 5

Fine Negative Features - score of 3 

Overhangs - score of 3 

Bridging - score of 5 

XY resonance - score of 2.5

Z-axis alignment - score of 2.5

Adding up the totals gives a final score of 25 out of 30.

Anycubic Kobra 2 Pro: Verdict

Anycubic Kobra 2 Pro with some 3D models we printed during this review

(Image credit: Alastair Jennings)

The Anycubic Kobra 2 Pro stands out as an exceptional 3D printer, offering impressive speed and consistent output at a competitive price point. Its robust build, complemented by features like a dual-gear extruder, high-power hotend, and App connectivity, make it highly adaptable for a variety of printing tasks. The LeviQ 2.0 auto-leveling system enhances its ease of use, making it a viable option for both novices and seasoned users.

The printer excels in producing smooth, detailed prints, especially when using high-quality PLA filament. Thanks to its automated calibration and large touchscreen, the Kobra 2 Pro is incredibly user-friendly. 

In our tests, the Kobra 2 Pro demonstrated remarkable print reliability, with no failures attributed to the printer itself. Its high-speed printing capability effectively balances speed with quality, producing precise and detailed outputs. Although noise levels increase with speed, at standard speeds, the printer maintains a relatively low noise profile. Its comprehensive feature set, including power loss recovery and filament detection, suits it for diverse environments.

One potential downside is the absence of built-in video monitoring, requiring reliance on external apps for certain functionalities. However, this actually simplifies usage and offers future expansion and upgrade possibilities.

Overall, we found the Anycubic Kobra 2 Pro is an excellent choice for those in search of a fast, reliable, and versatile 3D printer. Ideal for model making, educational purposes, small business applications, or anyone venturing into high-performance 3D printing, it promises quality and efficiency without a hefty investment.

Wondershare Filmora video editor app review
7:28 pm |

Author: admin | Category: Computers Gadgets Pro Software & Services | Comments: Off

In our Wondershare Filmora review for Windows and Mac, we were pretty impressed both by its focus on newcomers, but also on the powerful features. It earned an outstanding 4.5 stars in our review, and in our experience, it’s easily one of our top choices for best video editing software for beginners

But that’s the desktop version. With Wondershare also vying for position as one of the best video editing apps, we wanted to know how the Filmora (formerly FilmoraGo) experience translated to the iOS and Android mobile apps.  

Wondershare Filmora: Pricing & plans

Wondershare Filmora phone app durring our video editing tests

Filmora offers you plenty of options on launch, or just tap on ‘New Project’ to get started (Image credit: Wondershare)
  • Free but limited version with subscription or perpetual license alternatives that remove the app’s unwelcome restrictions

First of all, you don’t need to pay anything to download Filmora to your phone or tablet. You’re even allowed to use many of the features, and edit projects without giving Wondershare a cent. There are, however, some limitations. For instance, there will be a ‘Wondershare Filmora’ logo applied to the lower right of all your projects. That in itself is hardly surprising, nor is the fact that some tools will be out of your reach, like use of the app’s AI capabilities.

The free version does offer you 100 credits to play with, but they will get exhausted pretty fast if you like playing with those features. Perhaps the worst downside is the throttled resolution: although Filmora will work with clips of any resolution (we tried it with videos up to 4K with no issues), the output is limited to 720p. That’s quite a let down. Mobile editors we’ve explored in the past all allow 1080p exports. Some even let you choose higher resolutions, although most charge for that. Limiting the resolution to that extent is not a good point.

Wondershare Filmora phone app durring our video editing tests

Your exporting options are limited to 720p unless you subscribe (Image credit: Wondershare)

Of course, all of this goes away when you subscribe. For a monthly or annual subscription, you get unlimited AI credits, more stickers, tools, available songs, and 1GB of online storage. A perpetual license is also available, so the software is yours for a one-off fee. However, you’ll be locked to the current version, whereas the perk of subscribing is to always get the latest and greatest version. 

We especially like the cross-platform license. This gives you access to Filmora across iOS, Android, PC and Mac, for a quarterly or annual fee. Useful, we feel, if you're running any of the best video editing laptops or the best video editing PCs alongside your phone. 

If you’re not a fan of subscribing but like Filmora’s AI tools, you can purchase between 1000 and 10,000. The same applies for extra cloud storage storage, up to 100GB. 

  • Pricing & plans: 4/5

Wondershare Filmora: Tracking

Wondershare Filmora phone app durring our video editing tests

Why does a video editor need to know what you’re doing on your device outside of the app? (Image credit: Wondershare)
  • Filmora wants to track you when you’re not using the app - why is that a thing? And why do the developers insist on you sharing your entire Photos Library with them, rather than giving you the option of selecting just the clips you want?

As you launch Filmora, you’ll be asked if you’d like it to track your activity across other apps and websites. We’ve encountered this before with InShot - an otherwise excellent video editing app marred by privacy concerns - and here we are again with a video editor wanting to know what else you’re doing on your phone or tablet. Yes, it’s easy to ‘Ask App Not to Track’, but why does this app need to ask that at all (we know, we know: it’s because of advertising, but that’s hardly a good enough excuse if you ask us). Frankly, it’s a trend we do not like.

Next, Filmora tries to entice you to purchase a subscription, or do a free 3-day trial. Just tap the button that looks like a line, top left, to get out of that request if you just want to get to the free stuff.

Again, just like we saw in our InShot review, you’re highly encouraged to allow the app full access to your entire Photo Library. You can ‘manage’ which clips to give it access to, but frustratingly, you can only do so once. There is no way to add to that selection afterwards, like so many other apps allow you to. We question this artificial restriction and wonder what Wondershare does with its access to all your personal media.

Of course, if you don’t have an issue with privacy, this will be of no concern to you, and you will enjoy what Filmora has to offer. If you like to control what an app can and cannot do, you may well hesitate at this point. It is possible to circumvent this by solely using stock footage that you can access from the app’s media section, or by syncing up to your WonderShare Cloud account - although that does need payment, while at the same time making the process more cumbersome.

  • Tracking: 0/5

Wondershare Filmora: Video editing

Wondershare Filmora phone app durring our video editing tests

Editing works great and is well implemented, whichever device you’re using (Image credit: Wondershare)
  • Excellent tools, easy to use, with simple features and extensive options for all skill-levels

Filmora works great whether you’re using a phone or tablet. However, phones only work in portrait, but tablets can be used in any orientation. All the tools you need can be found at the bottom of the screen. If you don’t see what you’re after, scroll left or right to reveal more options. A large preview of your project can be seen at the top, with the timeline in the middle. Having tried out the best video editing software, we can tell you this is a pretty standard and familiar interface, which makes it a lot easier to get started whatever your experience.

As you’d expect, everything is controlled via touch. Want to trim a clip? Tap on it in the timeline, then tap and drag its end point inwards. Want to add a transition? Tap the slanted icon in between two clips in the timeline, for the bottom row of tools to turn into a choice of transitions. Tap on the one you like, tap on the ‘tick’ button and you’re done. It’s that easy.

Wondershare Filmora phone app durring our video editing tests

The Remove Background feature can struggle if your hair is messy (Image credit: Wondershare)

You can technically only work with one layer of video, although this can be circumvented somewhat with the picture-in-picture effect, which you can also use to key out a background. Filmora offers you various options to do this. The most effective is ‘Chroma Key’, which only offers two sliders for you to work with, yet it’s incredibly effective. 

Not everyone has access to green screen equipment, so you can instead use ‘Remove Background’. However, as you probably expect, the results will greatly depend on how cluttered your background is - and how sharp the edges of your subject are. There’s also a ‘Replace Sky’ option, which does exactly what it says on the tin, and we found it surprisingly accurate.

Wondershare Filmora phone app durring our video editing tests

Replacing the sky was surprisingly effective in our tests (Image credit: Wondershare)

In fact, all the tools we tried worked great, and the app is well-designed for touch controls, helping you create your project with ease. You’re able to change your project’s format (from widescreen, to square, to tall, and more), add animated stickers, insert titles and customize them to your heart’s content, apply masks, and so on. It’s a very complete set of tools.

Most of Filmora is however not designed with the advanced user in mind - the inability to properly work with multiple layers makes that obvious. Also, many tools don’t offer you any options. Take ‘Noise Reduce’ for instance: you can switch it on or off, and it does a pretty good job, but there are no parameters for you to tweak. It’s an all or nothing kind of deal. On the other hand, you have extensive control over color grading. You win some, you lose some.

All in all, Filmora for mobile devices is a very good, simple app that's well designed and will help you create projects with ease. Just a shame about the potential privacy intrusion.

  • Video editing: 4.5/5

Filmora: Scorecard

Should I buy?

Wondershare Filmora phone app durring our video editing tests

The Filters feature is filled with numerous presets and changeable parameters (Image credit: Wondershare)

Buy it if...

You’re looking for a simple to use video editor with many options available for free, and don’t mind the app potentially intruding on your privacy.

Don't buy it if...

 You don’t like to subscribe to apps, don’t like the potential privacy intrusion, and need to export at a higher resolution than 720p without having to pay.

Filmora: Alternatives

For some of the best alternatives to Filmora, we recommend checking out Apple iMovie for iOS, LumaFusion, DaVinci Resolve for iPad, and CapCut.  

InShot review
1:46 pm |

Author: admin | Category: Computers Gadgets Pro Software & Services | Comments: Off

‘Release your Unlimited Creativity’ is the tagline for InShot. It’s a noble goal, but in the fight between the best video editing apps, how does this iOS and Android video editor hold up against the creative competition?  

InShot: Pricing & plans

InShot mobile video editing app during our testing

InShot’s speed controls can be as simple or as complex as you need them to be (Image credit: InShot)
  • A generous free app with the top tools and effects reserved for those who subscribe or pay the one-off fee

Let’s start with the good news: InShot is free to use. You can create a project, apply some effects and nice-looking transitions, then export the whole video without paying a cent. Sure you’ll see a few ads on top of the screen, and your output will be watermarked, that’s the trade-off for plenty of free apps. 

If you want access to additional tools and effects, and no longer wish to see ads nor have to deal with watermarks, you need to hand over some cash. There are three options available to you. There’s a monthly subscription, at $4 a month, a yearly one for $15 which is a real deal compared with the monthly one, and a lifetime one-off fee of $40. The yearly subscription also offers you a short 3-day free trial - cancel your subscription before that time and you won’t have to pay anything. 

For UK readers, prices are the same in pound sterling (as if the exchange rate simply didn’t exist). 

  • Pricing & plans: 4/5

InShot: Getting started

InShot mobile video editing app during our testing

Why does a video editing app need to track you when using other apps or visiting websites? (Image credit: InShot)
  • Spent ages declining each and every cookie or just sell your soul and accept them all. Worst design ever - if we could give a negative mark, we would

Before we go any further, we’d like to discuss the cookies InShot somehow needs to insert into your video editing experience. Usually, you can allow or deny such requests in bulk - pretty simple and straightforward. Ins chose the most user-unfriendly approach. This isn’t the only app or website to do this, mind, but that doesn’t stop it from being diabolical. 

First you have to forbid the app from tracking you across other apps and websites. Why would a video editor need to do that anyway? Then you can either ‘Consent’ to all those lovely tracking and monitoring cookies, or ‘Manage options’, and this is where the fun begins - if your idea of fun is repeatedly hitting yourself in the face with a hammer.

As you might’ve guessed, there is no ‘deny all’ option. Instead, you need to untick the ‘legitimate interest’ from each and every single ‘vendor’, and that list feels endless. What's a legitimate interest? We don’t know, but rest assured it’s not your legitimate interest, it’s the vendors’. And there are over a hundred of them. 

Who has time for this nightmare and why would you need to do this to access a video editing app? As a user, this would have put us off instantly, and we would’ve deleted the app without ever looking back (just picture us walking away with purpose in slow motion from an app exploding in the background - that’s the vibe we’re after). But we have a job to do, so just to be able to actually test out the app, we gave up tapping after a few minutes and accepted whatever cookies were left through gritted teeth. The things we do for you…

  • Getting started: 0/5

InShot: Importing media

InShot mobile video editing app during our testing

InShot allows you to select specific shots from your library once. After that, if you need additional ones, it insists on having access to your entire library (Image credit: InShot)
  • Grant InShot access to all your photo library, or restrict it to just a few - except you can only do that trick once

In order to make use of a video editor, you need to give it some media. As with all apps, you can either choose to give InShot access to your entire photos library, or manage which ones it can have. So far, so good.

Only problem is, if you opt for the latter option, you can only do so once. Never mind the fact nearly all other apps have an ‘add more’ button or similar, allowing you to increase the number of media you wish to grant an app access to. Here, if you want to add more, you must give InShot access to all your photos.

Couple that with the questionable way the app deals with cookies and your ‘consent’, and we’re beginning to wonder whether this really is an app worth downloading at all. Especially if you’re at all concerned about your privacy. 

  • Importing media: 1/5

InShot: Video editing

InShot mobile video editing app during our testing

Aside from video editing, InShot also allows you to perform some photo editing and even create nice looking photo montages (Image credit: InShot)
  • A fantastically well-designed and easy to use mobile video editor, with a great deal of tools and export options all available for free

Despite all of the above, InShot is a well-designed, simple, and elegant mobile video editor. You start by choosing the type of project you’d like to get involved in: a video, a photo, or a collage.

The latter two obviously deal with still images, while the former can be just video or a combination of still and moving images.

Whichever one you choose, your tools can be found at the bottom of the interface while the top is devoted to your media. Video projects also have a timeline in between, where you can add clips, reorder them, alter them, and so on.

If you’re used to using any of the best video editing software, you’ll feel right at home with InShot. The interface is incredibly well done, to the point you feel you have frame accurate control. In our experience, that’s a great achievement for a touch-based interface.

InShot mobile video editing app during our testing

Editing on a tablet feels very easy. The tools and control are well designed whichever device you’re using (Image credit: InShot)

You’ll also find numerous tools, from the basics like adding titles and transitions, to more advanced effects such as chroma keying (i.e. green screen), and complex speed alterations. Whichever ones you use, they are well-designed and easy to handle.

Free users do have a few transitions and effects available to them, from the basics to some interestingly more visually appealing options. Although you can preview the best ones, those cannot be used until you pay for the privilege.

The buttons aren’t too small, the labels are easy to read. Honestly, kudos on the design front. Performance is a snap too, and aside from watermarking your project with a subtle ‘InShot’ logo, lower-right of your project, there doesn’t appear to be any limitations. You’re even allowed to export your project in 4K, something most competitors restrict behind a paywall. 

InShot won’t stop you or ask you to pay for the privilege. Truly, great attention has been paid to this app’s performance and usability. Such a shame they didn’t put as much time and effort on the privacy side of the equation.

  • Video editing: 5/5

InShot: Scorecard

Should I try?

InShot mobile video editing app during our testing

There’s a plethora of nice looking effects to choose from, many of which are free (Image credit: InShot)

Try it if...

You’re looking for an easy to use mobile video editor for your phone or tablet and have no qualms about potential privacy concerns.

Don't try it if...

You don’t like the idea of a developer insisting on tracking and monitoring you, while forcing you to hand over access to your entire media library - no matter how great its app actually is. 

InShot: Alternatives

Looking for the best alternative to InShot? We recommend checking out LumaFusion, Apple iMovie for iOS, DaVinci Resolve for iPad, and CapCut.  

Apple iMovie for iOS review
7:53 pm | December 6, 2023

Author: admin | Category: Computers Gadgets Pro Software & Services | Comments: Off

When Apple released its iMovie for iPhone in 2010, it quickly became one of the best video editing apps around. Back then, it was an absolute game changer. Here was a simple to use app with which you could create a project, edit shots taken with your iPhone, and effortlessly upload it to the web. The following year, an iPad-compatible version was offered, and since then nothing much happened until last year, when major new features were released.

How does Apple's video editor app perform now? Let’s take a look.

Apple iMovie for iOS: Pricing & plans

Apple iMovie for iOS during our tests

Editing is a simple experience, with enough tools to create a moderately complex project - there’s even green screen provisions, effects, titles, and a handful of transitions (Image credit: Apple)
  • A free app with no intrusive ads - what’s not to like? 

Whichever device you use, one of the best advantages of Apple iMovie is the cost: it’s free. Even better, you won’t be bombarded with intrusive ads, nor will the software ask to track you across other apps. 

All you'll need is an Apple device, as it’s highly likely the software will never appear on an Android device. As with a slew of other consumer-orientated Apple-created apps, just head on over to the App Store and download the latest version. 

  • Pricing & plans: 5/5

Apple iMovie for iOS: Interface

Apple iMovie for iOS during our tests

It’s like a video game: choose your level of difficulty: ‘Magic Movie’ (easy), ‘Storyboard’ (medium), or ‘Movie’ (hard) (Image credit: Apple)
  • A restricted interface on an iPhone, with more flexibility when using an iPad, or when removing the training wheels

Aside from selecting an existing project, you’re given three options to create a new one. ‘Movie’ is the original - and if you’ve used any of the best video editing software, you’ll find yourself in familiar territory. You get a blank canvas, which you’ll populate with the media stored in your device’s Photos Library, and you’re responsible for all the editing, effects, transitions, titles, and so on. ‘Storyboard’ relies on pre-made templates, and is like an extension of the traditional ‘Trailers’ feature you’ve had on the Mac version for years. In fact, ‘Trailers’ are integrated into ‘Storyboard’. And finally, there’s the simplified ‘Magic Movie’ which effectively turns the app into one of the best video editing software for beginners by letting iMovie do most of the editing work for you.

The interface is quite different whichever option you select. Depending on the editing path you choose, iMovie for iOS works either in any orientation (‘Movie’), or restricts you to portrait mode except when working on an iPad (‘Storyboard’ and ‘Magic Movie’), reflecting how basic or advanced Apple believe your chosen project to be.

  • Interface: 4/5

Apple iMovie for iOS: Movie

Apple iMovie for iOS during our tests

In ‘Movie’ you can scroll through, preview and select as many clips as you wish (Image credit: Apple)
  • Features aren’t extensive but they do let you work on anything from simple edits to green screen work

Even though this is the option that is the most hands-off, you’ll still find it incredibly easy to use. You start by selecting the clips you’d like to use in your project, and they’ll be added in the order you selected them. iMovie automatically inserts a simple cross dissolve between each clip, but it’s a simple matter to alter: just tap on it and choose another from a list of 5. 

Yes, Apple is being a bit stingy on that front. Some transitions have options - the ‘fade’ can either transition to black or white for instance, and you can specify in which direction the ‘slide’ and ‘wipe’ go (up, down, left or right), but that’s not a lot to play with. The duration can be set from half a second up to 2 seconds in length. These are pretty minimalistic options compared with the competition.

Trimming is a simple matter of selecting a clip and dragging its edit point inwards, cropping involves clicking on the magnifying glass and repositioning the clip within the frame. You’ll find speed controls, animated titles, the ability to detach the audio track from the video, a bunch of colour effects, and surprisingly easy to use green screen effect, among others.

For the most part, you will be working with a single layer of video. This can be expanded when working with green screen clips or you’re looking for a picture-in-picture effect, but that’s pretty much the extent of your multi-layered video work.

To be fair, although it’s sleek and works effortlessly, with iMovie enabling you to create a fun little project, applying sound effects, adding one of dozens of available soundtracks, shooting some footage right from within the app itself, and even recording a voice-over, it almost feels too simplistic and limited compared to the more advanced tools the competition, like LumaFusion, offers. 

  • Movie: 4/5

Apple iMovie for iOS: Storyboard

Apple iMovie for iOS during our tests

The ‘Storyboard’ side of things comes with a series of genres to choose from (Image credit: Apple)
  • Follow the instructions and build your edit based on ready-made templates - it’s more limited but you get nice themes as compensation

The Storyboards in iMovie are designed to make things a little easier, while offering you options not readily available in ‘Movie’. You start by choosing which category you’d like to work in, from ‘About Me’, to ‘Gaming’, ‘Makeover’, ‘Q&A’, and many others. Whichever one you select, you get to choose from a list of styles, parts of which are customisable, such as the font selection, colors, and effects.

Once that’s done, it’s time to build your project. This is a little like paint by numbers: the template will ask for specific types of shots with which to build the project, such as medium shots, wide shots, close ups, all in a specific sequence. You’re not obliged to follow that request, but obviously a template is there for a reason. Your editing options are vastly more restricted than what you can do in ‘Movie’, limiting you pretty much to trimming a clip, altering its audio’s volume, and making basic speed changes. 

If you like to follow a script, with effects, transitions and titles all set up in advance for you, you may well enjoy this way of working. As mentioned above, it’s very similar to how Trailers work on the Mac, except this offers you a broader range of subjects, helping you create a quick movie with ease.

It’s worth noting that we encountered a glitch on an iPhone 14 running iOS16, with the footage shot on an iPhone appearing upside down (the same footage appeared the right way round in ‘Movie’). An iPad Air running iPadOS 16, and an iPhone XS running iOS 17 using the same clips, worked as expected.

  • Storyboard: 3/5

Apple iMovie for iOS: Magic Movie

Apple iMovie for iOS during our tests

‘Magic Movie’ does it all for you, although you do have some input into the creation process, should you want it (Image credit: Apple)
  • Simple editing that does most of the work for you. It’s basic, simple, and fast, and great if you don’t have the time to create a short film yourself

Your last choice, ‘Magic Movie’ doesn’t even pretend to offer you options. It’s clearly designed for the person who doesn’t have the experience or time needed to make a short film, but would like something nice to remember an event with - so why not let a machine do all the work?

‘Magic Movie’ will ask you to choose the clips you’d like to use, and once you’re happy with your selection, tap on ‘Create Magic Movie’. There’s really nothing particularly ‘magic’ about the process though: the app will trim the clips for you and apply transitions between them, including an opening title, and some background music. It’s pretty basic fare.

You’re not completely out of the loop: you’re able to reorder your clips, trim them differently, and even change the type of transition, but your options will be the same as for the ‘Storyboard’ section - in other words, not as extensive as they could be - but if you need a short film done in record time, this is the way to go.

Apple iMovie for iOS: Scorecard

Should I try?

Apple iMovie for iOS during our tests

Work your way through the shots the Storyboard needs you to include, to create your movie (Image credit: Apple)

Try it if...

You own an iPhone or iPad, and are looking for the best free video editing software that's easy to use and offers various levels of complexity depending on your ability.

Don't try it if...

You’re looking for a mobile video editor with more advanced options, or one  that gets updated with more features on a regular basis.

Apple iMovie for iOS: Alternatives

For the best alternatives to iMovie for iOS, we recommend checking out LumaFusion, DaVinci Resolve for iPad, and CapCut.

« Previous PageNext Page »