This review first appeared in issue 361 of PC Pro.
AMD was just in the process of launching its Ryzen 9000 Series processors as we were putting this Labs test together, and we’ve managed to squeeze our first look into the roundup. It comes from Scan in the form of the 3XS GWP A1-R24 workstation.
Just as the 14th generation of Intel Core CPUs don’t make any radical changes over the 13th generation, the Ryzen 9000 doesn’t diverge greatly on paper from the 7000 series, with core counts still ranging from six to 16. Even the clock rates haven’t progressed. The AMD Ryzen 9 9900X in the Scan system is a 12-core CPU with a base 4.4GHz clock and 5.6GHz boost. The 7900X it replaces has a 4.7GHz base clock and 5.6GHz boost. The 16-core 9950X is similarly no on-paper leap over its 7950X predecessor.
However, the CPU is now produced on a 4nm process instead of 5nm, which should enable more cores to run closer to boost speeds than the previous generation. There’s also support for 5,600MHz memory instead of 5,200MHz. Scan has gone even further, supplying 64GB of 6,000MHz DDR5 RAM as two 32GB DIMMs, leaving two slots free for upgrade on the Asus ProArt B650-Creator motherboard.
(Image credit: Future)
Scan has managed to go one better than the 4000-series Nvidia RTX graphics we would normally expect at this price and includes the 4500 Ada Generation instead. This sports 7,680 CUDA cores compared to 6,144 for the 4000, and 24GB of ECC-backed GDDR6 frame buffer operating at 432GB/sec, compared to 20GB at 360GB/sec.
The storage is more modest, however. Only one drive has been included, although it’s a fast one. The 2TB Corsair MP700 NVMe M.2 unit operates at PCI Express 5 speeds to deliver an impressive sustained read speed of 12,278MB/sec in CrystalDiskMark 8, with sustained writing of 7,904MB/sec.
Scan has opted for the regular version of the Fractal North Charcoal chassis with the A1-R24. This is a stylish case with wooden slats down the front that make it look more like designer furniture than a PC. The chassis offers a couple of 2.5/3.5in drive mounts, and a couple of 2.5in-only ones, should you need to expand the storage. The PSU included is the 750W Corsair RMX750, which isn’t hugely potent but should be enough for this set of components.
Wooden slats on the front of the case make it look more like designer furniture than a PC(Image credit: Future)
This system had the fewest cores of any entry this month – half as many as the Intel workstations – but it wasn’t the slowest, showing the capability of the new Ryzen 9000 series. The PC Pro media benchmark result of 761 beat the 24-core Intel CPU supplied by InterPro and the 16-core AMD processor from the previous Ryzen generation in the Armari Magnetar PrMM16R9. This includes the best image-editing result this month of 359, competent video encoding of 716, and multitasking of 924, which wasn’t far behind the 32-core systems in the test. The Cinebench 2024 multi-CPU rendering result of 1,873 was the slowest this month, but only 6% behind the Armari’s Ryzen 9 7950X, which has a third more cores. Notably, the single-core Cinebench result was 16% faster. Similarly, the Blender Gooseberry frame render took 324 seconds, which sits in between the two 24-core Intel CPUs this month – despite having half the cores. This bodes well for the AMD Ryzen 9 9950X when it arrives.
The GPU-based performance from the Nvidia RTX 4500 Ada Generation unsurprisingly sits between the 4000 and 5000 we have in other systems. The SPECviewperf 2020 scores of 206 in 3dsmax-07 and 729 in maya-06 promise great 3D animation, while 165 in catia-06, 226 in creo-03, 789 in snx-04 and 491 in solidworks-07 mean CAD and engineering will be smooth. The Geekbench ML result of 24,416 means AI inference is midway between the other Nvidia cards, as is 15,285 with LuxMark 3.1 OpenCL.
With just 12 cores against systems boasting 16 or 24 in this price category, and 32 or 64 in the higher class, the Scan 3XS GWP A1-R24 acquits itself surprisingly well, showing that the AMD Ryzen 9000 series is a welcome upgrade over the 7000 series. Had this system included the 16-core Ryzen 9 9950X, it could have been our Labs Winner.
Seagate Game Drive External SSD: One-minute review
The Seagate Game Drive External SSD is a PlayStation-focused external solid-state drive (SSD) for gamers on Sony’s console looking for an extra storage boost. Compatible with PlayStation 5, PlayStation 4, and PC, this external SSD offers a speedy - though not blistering - plug-and-go option and channels an awful lot of what makes Seagate one of the go-to brands for gaming storage.
The drive has a very slick design and robust-feeling build. A hardy rectangular cuboid in form, the drive feels like it could easily withstand a drop or bump, while also being very convenient to carry and stuff into a pocket. It shares the PS5 family’s aesthetic (the drive looks right at home next to Sony’s console) with its sleek white finish, black underside and cable, and smart blue RGB light that runs along the front edge.
Seagate hasn’t published any claimed read and write speeds, which is unusual. But from our testing, the drive proved to be reliable - if not super speedy - for an external hard drive. It handled transfers from and to a PS5 at reasonable times, which you can read more about below, and it sits comfortably above HDDs, albeit below the top-end external SSDs like the WD Black P40. However, it is as easy to use as any external hard drive competitor, offering a simple plug-and-use experience with either a USB-C or USB-A cable.
As an SSD it still demands a higher price of admittance than any HDD solution, so that should be taken into consideration if you just need value-busting storage. While you pay a bit of a premium for the name and official licensing here, its overall decent performance makes this a drive we can easily recommend. You get what you pay for here and this is a really solid PS5 external hard drive and top portable SSD for mixed use too.
(Image credit: Future)
Seagate Game Drive External SSD: Price and availability
1TB: $129.99 / £139.99; 2TB: $219.99 / £229.99
Same price range as internal PS5 SSD options
The largest capacity is 2TB
Coming in two sizes, the Seagate Game Drive External SSD offers 1TB and 2TB solutions for external storage. The lack of a larger 4TB (or bigger) drive may irk some, but the price would skyrocket and those capacities seem to still be reserved for more traditional HDDs.
The price point puts it in established external PS5 SSD territory with the likes of the WD Black P40, P50, and Samsung T7 Shield for company, though it is more expensive than the Crucial X8 and X9, and WD My Passport SSD range.
While a new product at time of writing, gaming storage products are always great candidates for sales events and price cuts and the Seagate Game Drive External SSD should be snapped up immediately when it inevitably receives a discount.
A final bonus that the drive offers is that it also comes with a 14-day trial (for new users) of PS Plus Premium which is a pleasant little extra if you’re new to the PS5 console.
Seagate Game Drive External SSD: Specs
(Image credit: Future)
Seagate Game Drive External SSD: Design and features
Slick officially licensed design
Lightweight but solid in the hand
Cool LED flourish
The first (and best) thing to note about the Seagate Game Drive External SSD is that it is very in keeping with the PlayStation 5 aesthetic. It captures the contrasting white-on-black aesthetic excellently, and the blue LED on the drive’s front that lights up when it's plugged in really completes the look.
The drive is a compact accessory and can easily fit in the palm of your hand. It’s also much thinner than a traditional HDD, so will need to be positioned carefully and appropriately if you intend to keep it plugged in permanently. Speaking of which, the drive comes with a USB-C cable and a USB-A cable so it’ll be dealer’s choice when it comes to which port to use. The cable itself is plenty long enough too - something that personally irked me in previous years when stiff, short cables governed the position external drives would have to take.
The most important feature to remember for PS5 owners is that you cannot play PS5 games directly from the Seagate Game Drive External SSD. It can be used to play PS4 games from it and is a fine means to do so, while also allowing you a storage spot for your PS5 games to transfer over to your console when you’re ready. It performs those transfers nicely too, as you’ll read about below.
(Image credit: Future)
Seagate Game Drive External SSD: Performance
Strong but not spectacular speeds
Not as fast as internal options - or competing external SSDs
Still much faster than competing HDDs
The Seagate Game Drive External SSD is a solid performer and is worthy of its place in the brand’s pantheon - but won’t blow any socks off. The drive is much faster than any external HDD competitor but has middling speeds that mean it doesn’t compete at the very highest end of the spectrum, where drives from the likes of WD Black and Samsung sit.
On PS5, I transferred a 122.2GB installation of Diablo 4 to the Seagate drive in 10 minutes and 18 seconds and it was transferred back to the console in 16 minutes and 26 seconds. Star Wars Outlaws (a 51.6GB file) was moved to the SSD in 4 minutes and 25 seconds and then back again in 6 minutes and 57 seconds. My smallest single-game transfer was Prince of Persia: The Lost Crown at 25.5GB and this was transferred in 2 mins 12 seconds to the SSD and back again in 3 minutes and 26 seconds. Lastly, a 53.59GB bundle of games (Unravel Two, Pentiment, SOMA, and the Dead Space Remake) was transferred in 3 mins and 59 seconds and back again in 6 minutes and 58 seconds.
This is encouraging, particularly if you've got a bunch of smaller games or PS4 games; the drive transferring this bundle of games in roughly half the time of a single PS5 game of the same is notable.
On PC, hard drive testing software CrystalDiskMark 8.0.5 was able to put some numbers to the performance in terms of read and write speeds. After multiple tests, the Seagate Game Drive External SSD drive presented average read speeds of 439.83MB/s and an average write speed of 415.63MB/s.
These speeds aren’t massively impressive, especially when compared to its competition, and put the drive firmly in the strong but not spectacular space.
Compared to the likes of the WD_BLACK P40 Game Drive, the speeds just don’t stack up; it finds itself in the same camp as the Lexar SL200, Samsung T5, and Seagate Fast SSD. However, the upside of this is that the drive never gets hot and can keep going all day long at the same rate, making it super reliable overall, and perfect if you need a PS5, or PS5 Pro, workhorse.
But even if it’s not swimming in the fastest of waters, given its reliability, simple-to-use nature, and slick officially-licensed design, the Seagate Game Drive External SSD is an easy drive to recommend.
(Image credit: Future)
Should I buy the Seagate Game Drive External SSD?
Buy it if...
You want a premium, officially licensed external storage solution for PS5 The Seagate Game Drive External SSD is perfect for PS5 users, not least because it’s an officially licensed product and beautifully shares the same aesthetics as the console. Factor in its reliable job, then it's an ideal storage companion for PS5 users. View Deal
You value SSD speeds over HDD capacity If you have the budget for an SSD then the performance you get here over an HDD is sizeable and you won’t look back. If you’re looking for a boost to speeds and performance over an older HDD solution then this is it.View Deal
You only need a smaller storage amount If you’re only after a (relatively) smaller amount of external storage then the Seagate Game Drive External SSD is an ideal external storage solution for you, especially if you value its tidy speeds.View Deal
Don't buy it if...
You need maximum value from an external storage solution As an SSD, this drive does have a higher price of admission than traditional HDDs. If you’re happy to forego top speeds to maximize your bang for buck, then an HDD may be a better fit for you. View Deal
You want the absolute fastest external SSD speed going While competent and reliable, the read and write speeds of the Seagate Game Drive External SSD aren’t enormously beastly by any means, and there are faster external SSDs available if that characteristic is of paramount importance to you.View Deal
Also consider...
Still not sold on the Seagate Game Drive External SSD for PS5 and PS4? Here’s how it compares to two similar products so you can compare.
WD Black P40 Game Drive If you must have the best speeds possible in your external hard drive for PS5 then the WD Black P40 Game Drive is one of the best options at the top end of the market. Offering blistering speeds for an external hard drive, WD Black’s gaming storage pedigree, and a slick look to boot, this is a quality premium option.
Seagate Game Drive for PS5 If you just need a simple external storage solution on PlayStation then the Seagate Game Drive for PS5 is easy to recommend. Despite being an HDD rather than an SSD the performance is reliable and excellent, and the value, and bang for back here are terrific. If you’re looking to maximize what you get and need a larger capacity, then this is a fine option.
How I tested the Seagate Game Drive External SSD: One-minute review
Used the drive nearly every day for around two weeks
Played PS4 games from it, and regularly moved PS5 games to and from it
Compared it to my internal PS5 SSD and other external HDDs on PS5
Compared it to my day-to-day HDD on PC
I incorporated the Seagate Game Drive External SSD into my PS5 setup and used it as an extension of my console’s storage for around two weeks. In that time, I copied and stored multiple PS5 games numerous times - timing every transfer manually as well as using the PlayStation’s own estimates - and ran PS4 games from the drive too. I used both the drive’s cables and tested in both the PS5’s USB-A and USB-C ports.
I tested the Seagate Game Drive External SSD against other Seagate external HDDs on PS5 to confirm its speed and the increase in performance the SSD offers. I also made the same comparison with my daily external HDD, the Lacie Rugged, on PC.
CPU: Intel Core 14th Gen Ultra 9-185H Graphics: Intel Arc Graphics RAM: 32GB DDR5, up to 64GB Storage: 2TB PCIe Gen 4 SSD Rear Ports: 2 x USB 4.0, 2 x HDMI 2.0, 2 x RJ45 LAN (2.5G), 1 x DC in, Front Ports: 4 x USB 3.2 Gen2, 1 x USB 2.0, 1 x 3.5mm stereo jack, 1 Side Ports: SD Card 4.0, 1 x Kensington Lock Connectivity: Wi-Fi 7, Bluetooth 5.4 Audio: HDA CODEC Camera: N/A Size: 135mm x 132mm x 46.9mm OS Installed: Windows 11 Pro Accessories: VESA Mount, free USB-C hub
The Geekom GT1 Mega instantly sets the tone with the high-quality metal exterior, with its row of USB Type-A ports across the front and a host of connection options across the rear, highlighting that this is something a little different. Inside is the latest 14th Gen Intel Ultra processor, which provides impressive performance in such a compact machine.
The new processor, which in our review sample is the U9-185H option, with the U7-155H also available, enables close integration with AI-enabled features. These work with the Intel NPU, which has the effect of significantly accelerating tasks like AI computation and video rendering, which in real-world terms is an invisible feature that you only witness through the speed of the processing.
There are other hints of this small machine’s power beyond editing 4K footage in DaVinci Resolve, which it handles as if it's a machine many times its own size, and the smooth running of high-impact games. Connecting up two 4K displays is well within its abilities, with an option to support up to four 4K monitors or one 8K through the two HDMI ports and USB4.
Sure enough, for video editing and 3D work, the Geekom ploughs through the processing without issue, and checking all Microsoft Office apps just doesn’t pose any type of stress on the system. While all this power and speed are impressive at such a small size, it is worth noting that the fans will kick in early—there’s a lot of cooling to be done—so if you like silence, while not loud, that fan whirr is apparent.
Then there are the options to upgrade, which, being a mini PC, are limited: a slight boost to the internal RAM and SSD but little else. However, the USB4 ports afford plenty of other expansion options with external SSDs and eGPUs.
As a true mini PC, the GT1 Mega will fit any workspace without issue, and the small VESA mount ensures that it’s easy to fit and mount as needed. That, coupled with the 65W power consumption, means that it can easily be transported and powered in the field with a power station such as the Bluetti AC70.
But is it the best mini PC we've tested? Well, while this is a great compact solution, it comes with a high price tag, especially considering the limited upgrade options. So, if you’re looking to spend this amount, it might be better to look at a larger desktop solution. However, considering the design and advanced technology, on its own or partnered with other devices to expand its function, it’s impressive and an ideal solution for any professional—creative or otherwise—who requires some serious processing power.
Geekom GT1 Mega: Price & availability
(Image credit: Alastair Jennings)
The Geekom GT1 Mega is priced at $1,099 and is available directly from Geekom with a 3-year warranty.
You can also save 5% with code TECHRADAGT1 from Amazon US.
Score: 4/5
Geekom GT1 Mega: Design & build
(Image credit: Alastair Jennings)
The GT1 Mega is housed in a compact form factor (135mm x 132mm x 46.9mm) that is common for mini PCs, which instantly makes it an ideal choice for anyone with limited workspace or requiring a machine that is easily portable between places of work. The exterior of the machine is of an extremely high quality, with the all-metal finish instantly giving the impression of quality and style. The simple monocoque design of the casing, with the line of four USB 3.2 Gen 2 ports, 3.5mm audio, and power button, are all neatly laid out, highlighting accessibility.
That look helps to define this system as a core unit that can adapt to what you need it to do. For creatives, accessories such as the Logitech MX Creative Console, keyboard, and mouse can all be plugged in easily without searching around the back. Then on the side, alongside plenty of venting, which alongside the IceBlast 2.0 cooling system helps to keep on top of the heat from the fast processor, is an SD 4.0 card slot—a feature that will appeal to photographers and videographers, although a CFExpress Type-B slot would be great to see. On the other side, for security, there's a Kensington port.
Flipping over to the back, and again there’s a host of connections, including two USB 4.0 and dual 2.5Gbps Ethernet ports, two HDMI 2.0, a USB Type-A 3.2, and one USB 2.0 port.
The overall build is of a high quality, and flipping the machine onto its back, there are four small rubber feet and the hole for the VESA mount. Unscrewing the base gives you access to the inside, where there’s the option to upgrade the RAM from the 32GB to 64GB and swap the PCIe SSD NVMe Gen 4, although our review sample was already fitted with the 2TB version, which is the maximum.
Design: 4.5/5
Geekom GT1 Mega: Features
(Image credit: Alastair Jennings)
The Geekom GT1 Mega features Intel's 14th Gen Ultra U9-185H processor with 16 cores and 22 threads. It also features an AI-accelerated NPU, which is capable of delivering processing up to 8 times faster than the previous generation and enables you to access the latest machine learning tasks and compatibility with AI-enabled applications that can make full use of the new technology.
Visuals are supplied through Intel Arc graphics, which support both high-resolution video and gameplay, as well as the ability to run multiple displays from the system. This includes up to four 4K monitors or one 8K.
Inside, the machine features 32GB of Dual-channel DDR5-5600 SODIMM, which can be upgraded to 64GB. This is matched with 2TB of M.2 2280 PCIe Gen 4 x 4 SSD, which is the maximum that the machine can take.
Connections are a key feature of this small machine, and when it comes to networking, alongside the dual RJ45 2.5Gbps ports, there's also Wi-Fi 7 and Bluetooth 5.4, further enhancing connection options.
Alongside the latest Intel processing, the big point of interest here is the expansion options. While those are limited internally, the ability to utilise the two USB4 ports along with the USB 3.2 Gen ports gives you plenty of options. Although the internal graphics are good, if you need the boost of a dedicated external graphics card, then an eGPU can easily be fitted. Likewise, ultra-fast external SSDs, NAS, and mass storage devices are all easily compatible.
The USB4 ports offer plenty of flexibility, with the ability to connect data devices, monitors, graphics, and even deliver up to 15W of PD power to quickly charge devices such as phones, tablets, and camera gear.
When it comes to portability, the small form factor and solid metal build make it nice and robust, but if you're working in the field, then the fact that it only draws 65W of power means that it will sit alongside a portable computing suite that can be used in the field without too much of an issue and powered by a portable power station. However, it does utilise a 19V DC input rather than the more universal USB Type-C, so the external power adapter is required.
Features: 4.5/5
Geekom GT1 Mega: Performance
(Image credit: Alastair Jennings)
Benchmarks
Crystal Disk Read: 5049.75MB/s Crystal Disk Write: 4399.79MB/s GeekBench CPU Single: 2498 GeekBench CPU Multi: 13916 GeekBench Compute: 39696 PC Mark: 6992 CineBench CPU Multi: 15911 CineBench CPU Single: 1888 Fire Strike Overall: 8133 Fire Strike Graphics: 8886 Fire Strike Physics: 29083 Fire Strike Combined: 2995 Time Spy Overall: 4072 Time Spy Graphics: 3642 Time Spy CPU: 12306 Wild Life: 20948 Windows Experience: 8.3
Getting started with the GT1 Mega is fast, with the usual run-through of options for Windows 11 Pro. Once installed, the WiFi connection to install updates and applications is fast, and there’s little slowdown as you switch from browsing to applications and general use of the machine. Starting with the range of Microsoft Office apps, the machine is simply fast and responsive, with the apps loading quickly. Navigating large Word documents, presentations, and long spreadsheets is handled with no issues or slowdowns. Essentially, the machine just makes short work of this level of applications.
Likewise, two of the best photo editors, Adobe Lightroom and Photoshop, caused no issues, with the batch RAW processing of files from the Canon EOS R5C handled without a hitch. We also tested the machine with some of the best video editing software. RAW files along with 4K video Log3 footage from the Sony A7 IV were edited within Adobe Premiere Pro with the same ease. The only issue with video editing was the volume of internal storage; however, switching to using an external 8TB Samsung T5 Evo quickly resolved this, enabling impressive ease of editing for a 15-minute video.
Finally, looking at gaming performance, three games were tested: *Tekken 8*, *Cyberpunk 2077*, and *Hogwarts Legacy*. In all cases, the machine was able to handle most of the graphic processing, though with some minor lag in *Hogwarts Legacy*. However, a Razer Core X eGPU with ASUS GeForce 3060 Ti gave a boost to the graphics performance.
Once the external SSD and eGPU were added to the mix, the power of this small machine matched desktop PCs without issue, offering an incredibly small and effective solution for creative professionals looking for a compact and portable machine that can be used in the field.
Finally, with the performance tested, we checked out how the machine coped with our benchmarking tests. Here, the real-world tests were reflected, with the Geekom GT1 Mega excelling across the board. The Intel Ultra U9-185H processor offered strong multi-core performance, scoring 15,911 in Cinebench CPU multi-core tests, highlighting what we had witnessed during video editing. Storage speeds using the internal SSD are fast, with CrystalDisk scores of 5049.75MB/s for read and 4399.79MB/s for write, ensuring quick boot times and rapid data transfers. Although the 2TB storage will be ample for most users, creatives should look at an external storage solution such as the Samsung T5 Evo or OWC Envoy as an option.
If you do need to access the internal workings of the machine for an upgrade, the process is a little more involved than most. First, the four rubber feet need to be removed, then the four screws taken out, and the base prised off. Then there's the backing plate, which is again held by four screws; this needs to be carefully lifted away as there are two wires connected to the WiFi card. With the base plate propped up, you can access the M.2 Key-M slot for PCIe x4 Gen 4 NVMe SSD, 2280, and dual RAM slots, along with the M.2 Key-M slot PCIe x4 or SATA, 2242. It's also worth noting that the M.2 Key-E slot for CNVi/PCIe WiFi, 2230, can be upgraded, giving some future-proofing. Another interesting feature is the 16-pin FPC SATA connector to connect an FFC SATA cable to a 7mm 2.5" SATA, which opens up further options.
While overall the performance is excellent, the graphics performance is just above average, with the Intel Arc handling most tasks. However, the Fire Strike and Time Spy results show that when pushed, an eGPU should be considered, as we found with Hogwarts Legacy.
Overall, when it comes to performance, the core machine punches well above its size, but what really appeals is the fact that, with applications that support AI, this machine can see a real boost in performance. And if you need more storage for video or graphics for gaming, then an external drive or eGPU can be quickly fitted. The Geekom GT1 is one of the most impressive mini PCs available, with solid build and performance that will suit most creative and high-demand users.
Performance: 4/5
Should you buy the Geekom GT1 Mega?
The Geekom GT1 Mega is a great option for professionals or creatives who need robust computing power in a compact form. Its AI processing and excellent multitasking capabilities make it a great mini PC, though its high price and limited internal, might be an issue for some.
(Image credit: Alastair Jennings)
Buy it if...
You need AI-accelerated processing
If your work involves AI tasks, machine learning, or real-time data analysis, the GT1 Mega’s NPU will greatly enhance productivity.
You require multiple high-res displays
The ability to support four 4K monitors or one 8K display makes this mini PC perfect for video editing or digital content creation.
Don't buy it if...
You're on a budget
At nearly £1,000/$1,000, the GT1 Mega's cost is a barrier for casual users or those who don’t need cutting-edge performance.
You want extensive gaming capabilities
While capable, its Intel Arc graphics won't compete with a dedicated gaming PC for high-end gaming performance
The Octopus Arcade Stick is a versatile fight stick that provides an excellent gaming experience for fighting game fans with exceptional compatibility across a range of platforms. The arcade-grade joystick and buttons from Sanwa benefit from a durable, aerospace-grade aluminum shell.
Indeed, in practice, using it does feel exactly like stepping into the ring on a brawler at your local arcade (minus the beer-soaked cabinets of course). Buttons are responsive and the joystick reliably moves with precision and purpose as you’d expect from a Sanwa stick, always snapping back correctly ready for the next combo, block, or evasion. If Sanwa doesn’t fit your playstyle, then the supplied stick and buttons are easily swapped out for alternatives.
It’s the sheer number of supported consoles and platforms that truly impresses here. Where other contenders for best fight stick can tie players into a single or limited ecosystem, the Octopus Arcade Stick is compatible with over twenty platforms out of the box. Everything from the Mega Drive and SNES, to the entire PlayStation home console family, to PC and even several niche consoles play nicely with TR Fight Stick’s debut behemoth.
Achieving this versatility does require additional cables though, with an array of 2m leads available directly from TR Fight Stick to suit consoles that feature proprietary controller connections that predate the USB standards of today. The included USB-C cable will still provide ample platform coverage across PlayStation 5, PlayStation 4, PlayStation 3, Nintendo Switch, Xbox 360, PlayStation Classic, MegaDrive Mini, NeoGeo Mini, Astro City Mini, MiSTer FPGA, RetroPie, and other Raspberry Pi apps, plus X-Input devices.
(Image credit: Future/Theo Litston)
While the Octopus Arcade Stick is happy to throw down on a range of systems, it’s clear that it was designed with Sega’s Dreamcast as its champion. The Octopus’ secret weapon is one strictly for fans of Sega’s final home console, and appears as a built-in virtual VMU (Visual Memory Unit) switcher, with a capacity for ten individual VMUs, providing easy access to more save data slots than even the most prolific Dreamcast player will ever need.
The Octopus Arcade Stick even includes an LCD screen at the top of the unit, allowing you to see at a glance which VMU they’re using and enjoy the little animations, mimicking their appearance on the original Dreamcast VMUs. Soul Calibur fans rejoice as tiny, pixelated Ivy is alive and well.
Serious players also tend to be serious about their fight stick aesthetics, and the Octopus doesn’t disappoint here either with customization options for faceplate designs and layouts, including options to switch from the standard Sega 2P layout to Viewlix, Noir, or HitBox faceplates. Accessing the innards of the Octopus is straightforward, with the rear aluminum plate easily removed by loosening the seven Phillips head screws.
Octopus Arcade Stick: Price and availability
List price: $399.00 / £297.24 / AU$576.06
Premium pricing…
…but early adopters can bag one of the first batch of units for $299
The Octopus Arcade Stick is currently only available from TR Fight Stick’s official store page. The list price of $399.00, roughly £297.24 or AU$576.06 in the UK and Australia respectively, means that the Octopus Arcade Stick comes in as one of the pricier arcade sticks on the market today, costing more than an Xbox Series S or a Nintendo Switch OLED.
While that ticket price may cause some to flinch, remember that the Octopus Arcade Stick’s wide array of compatible consoles and platforms could remove the need for additional peripherals and provide additional value to players wishing to use fight sticks on multiple systems. Even those looking for a fight stick for a single platform should feel confident in their purchase as the quality on display in the Octopus is stellar.
Mercifully, those aforementioned additional cables carry a reasonable $14.99 price tag so won’t break the bank for players looking to wield the Octopus on older systems.
The Octopus Arcade Stick is scheduled to launch sometime in October, and early adopters can snap up a unit in either black or white for $299 while TR Fight Stick’s initial stocks last.
(Image credit: Future/Theo Litston)
Octopus Arcade Stick: Specs
(Image credit: Future/Theo Litston)
Octopus Arcade Stick: Design and features
Striking visuals with a range of changeable faceplates
Fantastic build quality with high-end materials
Bulky and heavy
Probably the first thing that’ll catch your eye on the Octopus Fight Stick is the artwork. TR Fight Stick has produced a series of faceplates, dubbed ‘OctoPlates’, allowing users to change the appearance of their arcade sticks. The majority of the OctoPlates include artwork featuring the titular cephalopod in a number of graphic styles, with designs inspired by everything from street graffiti to Grecian mosaics. If tentacles aren’t your thing, however, there is also a transparent OctoPlate which shows off the units’ inner workings, and even a limited edition plate featuring Ryo Hazuki from Dreamcast classic Shenmue.
There’s no avoiding the octopus in the room though, no matter how it's dressed, the Octopus Fight Stick is a hefty unit. The chassis size is a significant increase over the prototype I tested back at the start of the year, measuring almost 17.7in / 45cm across its width and 10.2 / 26cm deep. After opening the back of the unit to inspect modification options, I gleamed that there exists plenty of free space internally, meaning that TR Fight Stick could potentially slim this design down without greatly impacting its overall visage.
It's not just the size of the Octopus either, but the weight, that may dissuade some would-be buyers. Tipping the scales at around 7.7lbs / 3.5kg, the Octopus Arcade Stick definitely falls into the heavyweight category alongside other sticks such as the Nacon Daija and the Victrix Pro FS. Personally, I don’t mind the weight resting on my lap during a gaming session, as it feels secure and unlikely to move around during play, however, its weight may be off-putting to some.
(Image credit: Future/Theo Litston)
Octopus Arcade Stick: Performance
Exceptionally responsive buttons and stick
Switching between platforms is a little fiddly yet forgivable
Fantastic for arcade games and retro titles as well including a well-implemented turbo function
When you’re in the heat of battle the last thing you want to worry about is an unresponsive controller, and the Octopus Arcade Stick uppercuts those concerns into oblivion. The sturdy metal case eliminates any flex you might experience with a plastic shell, with the buttons and stick feeling purposeful and reliable during heated online exchanges.
A far cry from ‘the claw’ I often use when playing the best fighting games with something like one of the best PC controllers, the Octopus’ size affords a comfortable space for players to rest their wrists during gameplay, with the ergonomic layout putting every button at my fingertips, ready to engage at a moment’s notice. I found using the Octopus left me feeling less fatigued following a long play session, no doubt thanks to not needing to unnaturally wrap my digits around a pad.
The joystick offers similarly high levels of responsiveness, with dashes, blocks, and circle movements all feeling immediate while delivering that satisfying clicky feedback one only gets with an arcade stick. Special moves quickly become second nature and the experience of inputting button and directional sequences truly captures that arcade machine feeling.
(Image credit: Future/Theo Litston)
The majority of my review time was spent online in Tekken 8 on PS5, however, I was pleasantly surprised to see how easy it was to move between the various platforms the Octopus Arcade Stick supports.
TR Fight Stick provided me with a range of cables, allowing me to connect to all manner of systems. Plugging the fight stick into each one for the first time does require a bit of dexterity though. The first step is to connect the cable to the console or PC, before holding either a single-button or a two-button combo while inserting the other end of the cable into the Octopus Arcade Stick. It’s not the most elegant of methods for connecting, but with so many platforms supported it feels like TR Fight Stick has achieved a relatively painless process.
Similarly, the VMU switching on Dreamcast is vastly improved from the prototype model I’ve tested previously. Flicking between memory cards on Dreamcast now requires you to hold a single, dedicated button labeled ‘VMU’ before flicking the joystick left or right, whereas the prototype required me to contort my fingers unnaturally and enter a sequence of prompts to achieve the same thing.
(Image credit: Future/Theo Litston)
All initialization fumbling is quickly forgotten however once you’ve booted up your game of choice. A handy rocker switch on the unit's far side allows you to quickly toggle the joystick function between left and right analog sticks or a d-pad input, making navigating menus a breeze. Whether playing on PlayStation, PC, Mega Drive, Dreamcast, or Switch, the button and stick inputs remained sharp and responsive, with no noticeable lag present at all.
As a big retro-head, I was keen to take the Octopus Arcade Stick out of its natural brawler habitat and throw some stone-cold classics its way. Far from a one-genre master, the Octopus delivered a fantastic gaming experience across puzzle games like Dr. Robotnik’s Mean Bean Machine on the Mega Drive and even excelled on the challenging platforming of Disney’s Aladdin. The Octopus’ performance in the latter even led to me reaching the penultimate level of the game in a single life, something I’ve never achieved on a control pad.
Should you buy the Octopus Arcade Stick?
Buy it if...
You’re serious about fighting games The premium parts and materials warrant the premium price tag. This a serious piece of kit for hardcore beat ‘em enthusiasts and even features a tournament lock switch to avoid accidental disqualification during competitions.
You play on a variety of platforms, both old and new Looking for a stick to play Super Smash Bros. Ultimate on the Switch, Mortal Kombat 1 on the PS5, Killer Instinct on PC, Soul Calibur on the Dreamcast, and Street Fighter 2 on the SNES? The Octopus supports over twenty gaming platforms.
You love customization With a range of OctoPlates available, a variety of button layout options, and the ability to swap out buttons and joysticks, you can make their fight stick a truly unique peripheral.
Don't buy it if...
You’re looking for a lightweight fight stick If you’re anticipating long play sessions or having to regularly move your fight stick around the house, then the Octopus’ 7.7lbs / 3.5kg weight and large form factor may make it a little too cumbersome.
You plan to play on Xbox Series consoles If you primarily play on Xbox Series X or S then you’ll need an alternative fight stick, as despite the Octopus’ long list of supported platforms, Microsoft’s latest consoles didn’t make the cut.
Also consider...
If you’re in the market for a premium fight stick but not completely sold on the Octopus then here are two other similar arcade sticks for your consideration. It’s worth highlighting however the list of compatible platforms on these alternatives is much smaller than the Octopus Arcade Stick, however, that may not be an issue if you’re only looking to play on modern PlayStation or PC hardware.
Victrix Pro FS
This is a great alternative because just like the Octopus Fight Stick, the Victrix Pro FS comes with Sanwa parts as standard. While it doesn’t feature customizable faceplates like the Octopus, it is available in a variety of stylish colorways across its stunning design.
Nacon Daija This is a great alternative because of its premium build quality and highly responsive inputs. Officially licenced from PlayStation, this stick was designed in collaboration with eSports legend Kayane and features profile support in addition to customisation options.
Tested for a week on PS1, PS2, PS3, PS4, PS5, PC, Mega Drive, Dreamcast, and Nintendo Switch
Tested with multiple beat ‘em ups, arcade and retro titles
Competed in online tournaments
As somebody who indulges in online battles of Tekken 8 daily, I replaced my PS5 DualSense Wireless Controller with the Octopus Arcade Stick for the duration of my week-long review period, clocking in roughly ten hours of ranked, online gameplay in Namco Bandai’s seminal beat ‘em up. I’ve also become accustomed to entering PS5 tournaments in Tekken 8 so again used the Octopus Fight Stick for my daily humbling with some of the best players on the platform.
I also explored Tekken’s history on PlayStation using the Octopus, connecting the unit to my PS1, PS2, PS3, and PS4. I also took this opportunity to play an hour or so of the wonderful Street Fighter 30th Anniversary Collection, fighting through various arcade modes and in the online lobbies.
Moving away from PlayStation, I took several of my favorite Mega Drive classics for a spin during my regular retro game day. In addition to the aforementioned Mean Bean Machine and Aladdin, I used the Octopus Arcade Stick to play through the first half of Sonic 2 and hopped my way through to Pizza Planet in Toy Story.
I tested Nintendo’s platforming pedigree next, firing up several classic titles from the Mario series on Switch before diving headlong into Super Smash Bros. Ultimate for some competitive local multiplayer with my partner and friends.
Those same friends kindly provided me with a Dreamcast and some games, including a copy of Soul Calibur, so I could put the Octopus’ VMU features through its paces.
Lastly, on the PC side of things, I enjoyed bouts of Killer Instinct and Multiversus, before throwing myself back into Cuphead and making generous use of the Octopus’ turbo functions.
The CRKD Atom is far and away the smallest controller I have ever tested. Billed as a collectible keychain controller by its manufacturer, the Atom is an impressively compact 3 inches (about 76mm) from left side to right. This alone makes it remarkably portable-friendly and is easily stored in your pocket or even on your keychain.
A range of attractive colorways also add to the Atom’s collectability factor, and the controller sits at a reasonable price, thus making that collectible nature broadly more achievable for those who are interested. And of course, for stalwart CRKD heads, the Atom has the manufacturer’s app integration, allowing you to scan for your product’s overall rarity and unique number via near-field communication (NFC).
It’s a neat little controller in the aesthetics department, then, but I’ve also been impressed by its overall gaming performance. Compatible with Nintendo Switch, PC, and mobile devices, I found the CRKD Atom to have pin-sharp responsiveness across both wired and Bluetooth connections. As such, it’s an excellent choice for retro games or ones that don’t need to rely on analog sticks to play.
(Image credit: Future)
CRKD Atom: Price and availability
List price: $19.99 / £19.99 / AU$33
All colorways are the same price
Available at CRKD’s website and Amazon in all regions
The CRKD Atom is available to purchase now from the brand’s official website or its Amazon store page. All color options retail at $19.99 / £19.99 / AU$33, making for an affordable bite-sized controller that doesn’t price gouge on some of the nicer variants. There are eight colorways available, and they are as follows:
Atomic Purple: translucent, dark purple design
CRKD Grey: a matte grey finish with pink and orange face buttons
Glacier Blue: translucent, icy blue colorway
Hot Pink: a striking matte pink finish
Leaf Green: an airy, bright green finish
PAL Grey: a matte grey design with multi-colored face buttons inspired by the European SNES controller
Sky Blue: a light blue matte finish
Yuzu Yellow: bright yellow with nicely contrasting black face buttons and d-pad
Amazon stock tends to fluctuate greatly between designs, but all colors are more reliably available on CRKD’s official website. Do keep in mind, though, that as the Atom is under $25 / £25 on the brand’s own site, you will have to pay a little extra for shipping.
I mentioned the CRKD Atom is the smallest controller I've ever tested. It's also the cheapest, with the closest point of comparison being the GameSir Nova Lite which retails at $24.99 / £29.99 (around AU$40). Similar to the affordable GameSir wonder, the CRKD Atom is a cheap controller that I can wholeheartedly recommend.
CRKD Atom: Specs
(Image credit: Future)
CRKD Atom: Design and features
CRKD hasn’t skimped on quality despite the Atom’s small size
Very much a ‘what you see is what you get’ design
May just be too small for some
Like other impressively compact devices such as the Game Boy Micro, the CRKD Atom’s most striking design trait is its size. It’s so small that it could legitimately fit inside a Nintendo Switch Joy-Con controller. Of course, given its stature, the Atom has to miss out on analog sticks (though if CRKD does eventually make a follow-up with Hall effect thumbsticks, I’d be very impressed). Additionally, ZL and ZR - typically triggers on the best Nintendo Switch controllers - have been converted to tiny, tactile buttons nestled between the larger L and R bumpers.
Despite the omissions that keep the Atom’s size (and presumably, costs) to a minimum, CRKD hasn’t ditched its penchant for quality. Materials feel great in spite of the pad’s near-nonexistent weight, with solid casing and delightfully tactile buttons.
(Image credit: Future)
On the Atom, in addition to those bumper and ‘trigger’ buttons, you’re also getting a d-pad, four face buttons with the typical Switch layout, Start and Select, and a Home button in the center. There’s also a USB-C port at the top, an NFC touchpoint on the back for use with the CRKD app’s collection system, and a groove at the bottom-left of the controller where you can thread through the included wrist strap.
The Atom is a lovely collectible item - especially given its price - but if you are planning on playing games with it, definitely don’t underestimate its tiny size. True to its name, the Atom is minuscule and thus isn’t well-suited to folks with larger hands. It certainly isn’t best suited to longer gaming sessions, either, given your hands will be closely wrapped around its small casing. On the flip side, the Atom does make for a fun, affordable gift for younger players.
CRKD Atom: Performance
Excellent responsiveness
10-hour battery life is decent, given its size
Well-suited to retro gaming
A lack of analog sticks makes the CRKD Atom a poor choice for most modern games. However, it seriously excels at retro gaming, and titles that don’t require the use of analog sticks. Nintendo Switch Online’s retro libraries are a great example, and during my testing I found myself diving into games including The Legend of Zelda: A Link to the Past, Blaster Master, and Fire Emblem. Other Switch hits like Mario Kart 8 Deluxe, Nintendo World Championships: NES Edition, and Vampire Survivors are also fantastic fits for the CRKD Atom.
You can expect solid results via Bluetooth connectivity, too. The Atom is brilliantly responsive when used wirelessly, and the pairing process on both Switch and mobile was near-instantaneous. However if you’d prefer a more reliable connection overall, the Atom does support a wired USB-C connection which also makes it usable on PC.
(Image credit: Future)
There are some ancillary functions available on the Atom, too, accessible via button input macros. For example, you can change the d-pad to instead function as a left or right analog stick by holding Select and left or right on the d-pad respectively for five seconds. I didn’t get much use out of this feature, really; the SNES-style layout already makes the Atom a poor fit for titles that primarily make use of analog sticks, and it certainly doesn’t benefit from the additional sensitivity that sticks provide. A more useful inclusion, however, is the ability to take screenshots by pressing the Start and Select buttons simultaneously.
In terms of battery life, you’re getting an impressive 10 hours with the CRKD Atom. That’s not a lot in the grand scheme of things, especially compared to the 20 hours from the 8BitDo Ultimate or the 40-50 hours from the Nintendo Switch Pro Controller. However, given its size - and the fact that the Atom is best suited to shorter play sessions - this is more than an adequate amount of battery life, I feel.
Should I buy the CRKD Atom?
Buy it if...
You’re after a truly portable controller The Atom’s small size makes it a perfect choice for portable gaming on both Nintendo Switch and mobile devices.
You’re a collector Eight lovely color options and a relatively low price tag make the Atom a fantastic collector’s item.
Don't buy it if...
You want a proper controller There’s no avoiding the fact that the Atom is a novelty gamepad. A great novelty, for sure, but without analog sticks, grips, gyro, and other Switch controller hallmarks, those after a more fully-featured controller should consider something else.
Also consider...
If the CRKD Atom isn’t quite to your liking, we’ve highlighted a couple of other fantastic controllers that are well worth your consideration.
8BitDo Ultimate Having tested several Nintendo Switch controllers over the years, I still think 2022’s 8BitDo Ultimate is the best of the bunch. Sublime build quality, Hall effect thumbsticks, and the inclusion of a charging dock all make for superb value for money. You’re also getting full gyro support, but the gamepad does lack an NFC touchpoint for amiibo scanning.
Nitro Deck CRKD’s very own Nitro Deck is one of the best Nintendo Switch accessories you can buy. It’s a fantastic controller/dock for handheld Switch players who’re after something sturdier and more reliable than the Joy-Con controllers.
For more information read our full Nitro Deck review.
How I tested the CRKD Atom
Tested for one week
Platforms tested: Nintendo Switch, PC, mobile
Primarily used Bluetooth connectivity, with USB-C wired connection on PC
I tested the CRKD Atom over the course of a week, primarily playing titles on Nintendo Switch. Given its small size, I found the Atom to be better suited to shorter play sessions overall. That, paired with the SNES-style layout, made it a great fit for Nintendo Switch Online’s retro library, as well as games like Mario Kart 8 Deluxe and Vampire Survivors that don’t require the use of an analog stick.
I also found the Atom to pair well with various retro compilations on PC, including Sonic Origins Plus, Mega Man Zero/ZX Legacy Collection, and the Final Fantasy Pixel Remaster titles. As the Atom doesn’t include a 2.4GHz or Bluetooth adapter in the box, I went with a USB-C wired connection on PC.
The PowerA OPS v1 is a wireless PC controller that's also compatible with mobile devices and cloud gaming services. Being a cheaper alternative to the PowerA OPS v3 Pro, it understandably misses out on some of that controller's standout features. Those include Lumectra RGB lighting, 'quick-twist' thumbsticks and the remappable bumper buttons.
That said, the OPS v1 is still a decent option if you're on a budget. Drift-resistant Hall effect thumbsticks are present here, as well as four remappable buttons on the rear which can be programmed on the controller itself with a dedicated button. You're also getting a Turbo button function and support for 2.4Ghz, Bluetooth and USB-C connectivity.
One particularly impressive aspect of the OPS v1 is that the textured grips on this controller actually feel nicer than on the OPS v3 Pro. On the more expensive gamepad, I found the textured grips to be a touch too rough over longer play sessions. Here, they are unintrusive and provide the perfect amount of grip for comfortable sessions of any length.
The controller itself - and its various buttons, bumpers and triggers - do feel quite cheap overall with some rather flimsy-feeling plastic being used. It's not horrendous by any means, but certainly a downgrade when compared to the v3 Pro and many of the best PC controllers out there today.
(Image credit: Future)
PowerA OPS v1: Price and availability
$49.99 / £49.99 for the standard model
Special Fortnite edition for $54.99 / £54.99
Available at PowerA in the US and Amazon in the UK
The PowerA OPS v1 launched in August 2024, and is available to purchase for $49.99 / £49.99. It's available at PowerA's own website in the US, but those in the UK will need to rely on retailers like Amazon to secure the bag there. A Fortnite edition is also available (pictured throughout the review) which features a distinct livery. This one comes in slightly pricier at $54.99 / £54.99.
This is significantly cheaper than the PowerA OPS v3 Pro which costs $99.99 / £99.99 and is a solid alternative at half the price. As mentioned, the lower price point does mean that the OPS v1 is pared back when it comes to features, so you may wish to keep that in mind when comparing the two models.
Admittedly, at this price point, the OPS v1 has some very stiff competition in the form of the GameSir T4 Kaleid which goes for $41.99 / £41.99. You are losing out on wireless connectivity with GameSir's pad, but it's more than made up for in excellent build quality, superb micro switch buttons, and a lovely RGB profile.
PowerA OPS v1: Specs
(Image credit: Future)
PowerA OPS v1: Design and features
Cheap-feeling build
Textured grips are preferable compared to the OPS v3 Pro
Rather plain, all-black aesthetic
As a more budget-friendly controller, you can expect the PowerA OPS v1 to be slightly pared back in terms of design and feature set, especially compared to the OPS v3 Pro. Firstly, build quality on the OPS v1 is lacking in comparison, with a cheaper plastic presumably to keep the gamepad's costs down.
Much like with the Razer Wolverine V3 Pro, I'm also not a fan of the plain, all-black aesthetic for the OPS v1's standard model. The special edition Fortnite version is certainly more eye-catching, though, and is the model I'd recommend going with if you're willing to spend 5 bucks extra (and, naturally, if you're a fan of the free-to-play shooter).
One aspect of the OPS v1's design I do really like is the texture on the rear of the grips themselves, and on the bumpers and triggers. The textured grips on the OPS v3 Pro were a little too rough for my liking. Here, though, they're a comparatively light touch and actually feel far more comfortable as a result. The added texture on the bumpers and triggers is also a really nice touch.
(Image credit: Future)
As for features, the OPS v1 shows up with the Hall effect thumbsticks that are swiftly becoming the standard for third-party controllers. It's now quite rare that I test a controller that lacks Hall effect, but it is great to see more affordable gamepads adopt the technology. Sony and Nintendo, please take notes.
The OPS v1 also shares some features with its pricier counterpart. You're still getting four remappable buttons on the rear of the pad, as well as three-stage trigger locks and three types of connectivity (2.4GHz, Bluetooth and wired via USB-C). The box includes a USB-C cable, too. But unlike the v3 Pro, there's sadly no charging dock bundled with the OPS v1.
PowerA OPS v1: Performance
Perfectly responsive during wireless play
A decent 20 hours of battery life
Like the OPS v3 Pro, trigger locks don't work great
There's really not much to complain about when it comes to the PowerA OPS v1's performance while actually gaming. I tested games across a wide variety of genres in my Steam library, including Street Fighter 6, Final Fantasy 14 Online, Cyberpunk 2077 and Shin Megami Tensei 5: Vengeance. All that is to say the OPS v1 is a perfectly adequate controller no matter what kind of single-player games you're into.
A 2.4GHz wireless adapter is included in the box, offering 500Hz polling rate which is solidly responsive for wireless play. I'd still recommend going wired if you're interested in playing the best fighting games or the best FPS games for peak responsiveness, but you can't go wrong either way here.
(Image credit: Future)
Unfortunately, as was the case with the v3 Pro, the OPS v1's trigger locks are hit-and-miss. When unlocked, or set to lock halfway, the triggers work perfectly fine. However, I found that the highest notch simply didn't work for any of the games I tested. That's a huge shame as it's a feature that's always nice to see on cheaper gamepads.
As for battery life, you're getting around 20 hours here according to the manufacturer. I did find this to be accurate during my time testing the controller, as I did have to charge up from empty after around a week of play that consisted of 2-3 hour sessions each day. Expect the OPS v1 to take a few hours to charge back to full, too, when hooked up via USB-C. For optimum efficiency here, I'd recommend charging with the cable included and potentially leaving it hooked up overnight so you don't have to wait.
Should I buy the PowerA OPS v1?
Buy it if...
You’re looking for a solid and affordable PC controller Coming in below the $50 / £50 mark, the PowerA OPS v1 offers good value and a decent feature set given its price tag.
You’re after a versatile and customizable PC controller With Hall effect sticks, remappable buttons and trigger locks, there's plenty of options for customization on the OPS v1.
Don't buy it if...
You're hoping for better build quality The PowerA OPS v1 sadly falters in the build quality department, with cheap-feeling plastic for its casing, buttons, and triggers.
Also consider...
If the PowerA OPS v1 misses the mark for you, we’ve got a couple of other suggestions that we’ve tested and reviewed for your consideration below.
PowerA OPS v3 Pro This smartly-priced Pro controller locks in with Hall effect sticks and gorgeous Lumectra RGB lighting, making it worth checking out at the sub-$100 / £100 price tag. There are some design frustrations here, but it's still a very capable gamepad.
GameSir T4 Kaleid This is still my favorite budget-priced PC controller that's also compatible with Nintendo Switch. It's wired only, but comes in slightly cheaper than the OPS v1 and offers excellent build quality, sublime micro switch buttons and a lovely RGB profile.
Played primarily on PC across a wide variety of games
Compared and contrasted to the pricier PowerA OPS v3 Pro
I tested the PowerA OPS v1 over the course of about a week, tackling 2-3 hour gaming sessions each day. During my time with the gamepad, I found I only needed to charge it up once. That total time lasted around 20 hours, lining up with PowerA's battery life claim.
I made sure to test a wide variety of games on PC, including Cyberpunk 2077, Fields of Mistria, Vampire Survivors, Street Fighter 6 and Final Fantasy 14 Online. This is a mix of my go-to games and some I determined to be a great fit for the budget OPS v1.
The ROG Delta II wireless headset is the latest in the Asus Republic of Gamers line of audio peripherals for gaming. The set maximizes comfort without diminishing audio quality in a lightweight, over-ear headset that’s clearly made for all aspects of gaming. While gaming peripherals from companies like ROG or Razer can feel gimmicky for streamers or, at the very least, don’t stand up to higher-end, general-purpose counterparts, the Delta II is surprisingly versatile and even excels beyond something like the costlier Audeze Maxwell. With so many different headsets on the market, ROG had to find a way to separate the Delta II from the crowd, and despite its general simplicity, it succeeded in most ways.
The biggest surprise is the comfort level. The lightweight design, forgiving band, and plush mesh or PU leather ear cushions minimize the occurrence of headaches. Even with a looser band, the earcup creates a seal that cuts down on external noise despite no active noise cancelation.
(Image credit: Future / Mark LoProto)
While on the higher end of the price spectrum when compared to other Delta models, the Delta II’s $229 / £219 / AUS$368 price tag stings less when you start noticing audio cues that may have been otherwise drowned out through TV speakers or a lower quality headset. The plug-and-play compatibility with the PS5 (via USB-C dongle) and Xbox Series X/S (via 3.5mm cord) are vitally convenient and provide the best gaming experience, whereas use via PC (Bluetooth or USB-C) can be tweaked and customized using the Armoury Crate software.
Asus ROG Delta II: Price and availability
When is it available? Available now
How much does it cost? $229 / £219 / AUS$368
Where can you get it? Available in the US, UK, and AUS
The ROG Delta II officially launched on September 12, 2024, at a price point of $229 / £219 / AUS$368. Though fairly high, especially for a gaming headset, the Delta II justifies the cost with a build that makes the Delta S and its 50mm Asus essence drivers obsolete. Titanium is where it’s at for a fuller audio experience that elevates game audio design to ensure even the most subtle cues aren’t missed.
There’s a market for the ROG Delta II; it just may not be the casual player who picks up a controller every few weeks. Someone willing to drop $229 on a wireless headset when there are options for more than half the price will better appreciate the enhanced audio provided by the 50mm titanium drivers. Though the headset does work quite nicely for PC, it almost feels like a console-specific accessory, especially since connecting any headset to an Xbox or PS5 isn’t as simple as establishing a Bluetooth connection, and compatibility isn’t guaranteed.
What really justifies the price is how well the headset handles the PS5’s spatial audio to suck players in. With that being said, that’s only good for PS5 players, leaving Xbox gamers to once again deal with the antiquated 3.5mm audio plug. That’s when it gets difficult to recommend a $200-plus headset because while the drivers work wonders, I can’t help but wonder if the much cheaper, 3.5mm-compatible Delta Core could get the job done for very casual players.
Value: 3.5 / 5
Asus ROG Delta II: Specs
Asus ROG Delta II: Features
DualFlow Audio for simultaneous device use
Tri-Mode connectivity with ROG SpeedNova
Few features lend to a user-friendly experience
ROG didn’t go too heavy on features for the Delta II, which is a double-edged sword. On one hand, it allows the headset’s base audio quality to shine without forcing you to navigate a sea of button presses and app integrations. The Delta II caters to a plug-and-play crowd, especially for consoles. It also supports the notion that this headset isn’t meant for audiophiles, and even casual players can get the most out of the titanium drivers without fuss.
Then again, an older competitor like Razer’s Kaira Pro (2022), which retails for only $30 less (for the PS5 model), is brimming with different audio-enhancing features. Along with haptic feedback, the Kaira Pro includes a toggle that swaps between improved bass, amplified audio, and a gaming profile for a more diverse user experience. You may be wondering why you’d spend more for what seems like less, but the Delta II’s success is that it hones in on a well-rounded build to render all of those enhancements unnecessary.
Of course, you can still control your sound design on a PC. The Delta II connects with ROG’s Armoury Crate software to optimize sound with toggles for an equalizer, reverb, and virtual surround sound along with slides for bass boost and compression. You can also choose between preset profiles for movies, music, gaming, and communicating, which change the necessary settings to adjust sound for each application.
One of the Delta II’s more interesting features is DualFlow Audio. Using both the 2.4 GHz wireless and Bluetooth, it feeds audio from two devices simultaneously. That may sound like chaos, but it’s a great way to game on a PS5 and still be able to use Discord (or TeamSpeak, if you're still using it) or chat with viewers on the PC without a mixer or additional equipment. The input audio skipped infrequently, but the rare hiccup is worth dealing with for something so simple and useful.
None of this matters all that much if the headset is dead within hours of charging. Thankfully, ROG found a way to prolong the life of the Delta II to up to over 110 hours (using 2.4GHz wireless without RGB lighting). I tried to run the battery dry, but it’s quite resilient and looks like it does live up to at least a sizable portion of that 110 hours. ROG also boasts a quick charge, where you can squeeze 11 hours of use time after only 15 minutes on the included USB-C charger.
Features: 4 / 5
Asus ROG Delta II: Sound quality
(Image credit: Future / Mark LoProto)
Full-bodied audio that struggles with deeper bass
Binaural audio is immersive and crystal clear
Detachable microphone could use some work
After running a simple online bass test, I realized there were a few hiccups in the Delta II’s sound quality. While that should be a negative mark, it really indicated that the headset was specifically designed for gaming, especially since the worst offense was vibrating drivers at a low frequency I wouldn’t expect to hear in a video game. Some music with deeper bass may cause the drivers to vibrate, but the Delta II isn’t really made for music. Sure, you can connect to your iPhone and blast your favorite tunes, but ROG cares more about making sure you feel like you’re in the middle of Liberty City. Across most of the games I tested the Delta II with, I discovered the immersion I was missing by using TV speakers.
My favorite experience with the Delta II was Returnal. Having heard the game through the TV and the Audeze Maxwell, I was not prepared for how different it would sound with the titanium drivers. It engulfs you in the alien world in a way video games should, with every bit of audio, big or small, sounding like they were in the room with me. Even Marvel’s Spider-Man 2 sounded better, to the point where I could hear the faint flapping of Spidey’s wings while gliding.
On PC, I toyed with Armoury Crate’s settings but pretty much always returned it to the preset gaming mode. It provided the fullest audio of the lot, making games like Dead Space 2 infinitely more horrifying.
(Image credit: Future / Mark LoProto)
Playing on PC also highlighted Delta II’s weakest feature: its microphone. Though clear (and made clearer with Armoury Crate’s noise reduction setting) it had a tendency to stutter. It did seem to run fine on the PS5, though, and teammates could hear me clearly each round of Killer Klowns from Outer Space.
Sound quality: 4.5 / 5
ASUS ROG Delta II: Design
(Image credit: Future / Mark LoProto)
Interchangeable plush ear cushions
Flexible but durable headband
Flimsy microphone design
There’s little to complain about with the Delta II’s design. Both ear cushions are very cozy and create a good seal to minimize external noise without pressing too hard against my head. The fabric and PU leather cushions were equally as soft, though I did sweat slightly with the latter.
Adding to the overall comfort is the headband. I’m used to headsets that squeeze and feel tight around my head, but the Delta II’s band doesn't share that aggression. It does feel a little cheap, with very minimal padding at the top of the head, but it was comfortable enough to wear for several hours at a time without discomfort.
ROG kept things very simple with its button layout. The left earcup features controls for the volume and 2.4GHz dongle. Opposite that are the controls for Bluetooth connectivity and volume. Function buttons on both sides can control music based on how many times they’re pressed, making for a very user-friendly design.
Design: 4 / 5
Should you buy the Asus ROG Delta II?
Buy them if...
You own a PS5 and love immersion
A lower-quality, cheaper headset or TV speakers don’t do the PS5’s spatial audio any justice. ROG’s Delta II, on the other hand, thrusts you into the action with titanium drivers and a stable wireless connection that’s smooth and crystal clear.
Headsets tend to be uncomfortable for you
Both included ear cushions and the band design come together for a surprisingly comfortable wear. Though the band is nothing to write home about, it’s not tight and won’t squeeze even larger heads. The Delta II’s comfort also doesn’t hinder its ability to keep outside noises from polluting the audio, as the plush cushions create a strong, albeit cozy, seal.
Don't buy them if...
You only game on an Xbox
This is mostly Microsoft’s fault, as it’s difficult to justify spending so much for a 3.5mm connection that tethers you to the control and, shockingly, doesn’t provide the same audio quality as the Bluetooth or 2.4 GHz connection. On Xbox, you can’t take advantage of DualFlow audio.
Audio isn’t all that important to you
There’s no point in spending so much money if you’re not “Wow’d” by immersive, clear audio. You could easily spend less than $100 if all you care about is a simple wireless headset that gets the job done. Even a lower-cost ROG wireless headset could satisfy your needs for a wallet-friendly, feature-light audio experience.
Also Consider
Logitech Pro X 2 Lightspeed
50mm graphene drivers steer Logitech’s Pro X 2 Lightspeed in a good direction in this lightweight headset. Connectivity options, a sizable frequency range, surround sound, and good battery life lend to a positive user experience, particularly for competitive gamers.
Comfort and a long battery life ensure prolonged gaming sessions with the SteelSeries Arctis Nova 7 Wireless. Ample customization and neutral sound quality help justify a higher price tag, which still comes in a little cheaper than the ROG Delta II.
A premium headset with audio amplified by 50mm drivers, active noise cancelation, and multiple connectivity options, the Turtle Beach Stealth Pro is both versatile and capable of delivering crystal-clear audio.
Used in an open-walled home office with varying degrees of noise
I put ROG’s lightweight headset through a rigorous process. More so than visuals, I value sound design in video games, so I focused on games with fantastic audio across the primary platforms. This included Returnal (PS5), Dead Space 2 (PC), and Alan Wake 2 (Xbox Series S). By using different platforms, I could test audio quality across the USB-C 2.4GHz dongle, the 3.5mm cable, and the Bluetooth connection. Using each game’s base audio settings, I swapped between the Delta II, my Audaze Maxwell, and the speakers built into my Samsung TV to pinpoint basic audio quality and how well individual audio cues and background noise came through across each device. I also performed an audio/microphone test via Phasmophobia (PC), Ghostbusters: Spirits Unleashed (PC), and Killer Klown’s from Outer Space: The Game (PS5) to test the clarity of the microphone and how well the headset mixed in-game audio and other players. Finally, I ran the headset through a bass test designed to gauge the quality of the drivers.
It’s not often you see an analog keyboard come to market, but Turtle Beach is offering a new one in the form of its Vulcan 2 TKL Pro. It promises ultra-smooth and fast operation, aided by the in-depth actuation settings in its accompanying software, Swarm 2.
Since the Vulcan 2 TKL Pro doesn't have a top cover, the bare keycaps and switches are immediately apparent. This design choice is both aesthetically pleasing and convenient, as it makes cleaning and swapping out the keycaps easier. The overall form is compact and slender, yet the materials and construction feel premium.
Swarm 2 doesn’t put its best foot forward, with a jagged interface and a severe lack of explanations for the numerous settings available. Navigating it can also be a chore, and I was frequently met with dialog boxes telling me I had to go somewhere else or activate a certain parameter to achieve what I wanted. It also crashed on one occasion during my time using it.
Beneath it all, though, there are some great customization options on offer, with a broad selection of hotkey functions – some quite advanced – and the actuation adjustments allow for a great deal of tinkering. Again, though, it can be hard to work out exactly what your tweaks are accomplishing, thanks to the lack of visual indicators and an impractical testing procedure.
(Image credit: Future)
In action, the Vulcan 2 TKL Pro performs competently, with the same satisfying keystrokes and comfortable feel as any of the best gaming keyboards, and the mixture of convex and concave keycaps pays dividends. However, typing isn’t the easiest, as the keys are quite narrow, and gliding around them isn’t as seamless as I’m used to.
The analog functionality is a mixed bag for gaming. There are plenty of adjustments in the actuation point, which let you dial in your preferred pressure. Rapid Trigger mode is also useful, allowing for fast yet controlled inputs, ideal for twitchy character movements. However, the multi-point actuation seems more like a gimmick than a useful tool, and Controller mode falls short of its emulation promises since the keys can’t match the precision of analog sticks and triggers. In practice, I doubt gamers will use it.
All this isn’t to say the Vulcan 2 TKL Pro isn’t a competent gaming performer. It’s satisfying and solid to use, and its compact design makes it suitable for virtually any setup.
If you want a premium gaming keyboard with similar analog switches, the Razer Huntsman line includes models with them. If you can do without, there are plenty of keyboards out there that offer similar, if not better, performance than the Vulcan 2 TKL Pro for the same price or less, such as the Asus Rog Strix Scope II RX and the Roccat Magma.
(Image credit: Future)
Turtle Beach Vulcan 2 TKL Pro review: price and availability
$149 (about £113 / AU$219)
Black and White colorways
Wired only
The Vulcan 2 TKL Pro is priced at $149 (about £113 / AU$219) and is available in two colorways: Black and White. It also comes with a wrist rest. UK and Australian markets are yet to receive it.
For a tenkeyless board with analog switches, the Vulcan 2 TKL Pro is good value. Similar analog offerings from the likes of Razer and Corsair can set you back over $200.
If you’re not bothered about analog switches, your options open up considerably, but even when considered within the broader gaming keyboard market, the Vulcan 2 TKL Pro is still competitively priced.
However, there are alternatives that undercut the Vulcan 2 TKL Pro: the Asus Rog Strix Scope II RX, for instance, is slightly cheaper, full-size, and has mechanical switches. There’s also the Roccat Magma, our current pick as the best gaming keyboard for those on a budget.
Value: 4 / 5
Turtle Beach Vulcan 2 TKL Pro review: specs
(Image credit: Future)
Turtle Beach Vulcan 2 TKL Pro review: design and features
Light but sturdy
Satisfying floating keys
Software is so-so
The Vulcan 2 TKL Pro has a sleek, lightweight body, made from anodized aluminum with a plastic underside, resulting in a keyboard that feels hard-wearing. The keycaps' floating design helps to minimize its real estate even further. I found the chassis thin enough to use the board comfortably without needing the included wrist rest. The folding feet didn’t provide as steep an angle as I would’ve liked, but it was still within the bounds of acceptability.
Some might not like this exposed design, but I’m quite partial to it. If nothing else, it makes the Vulcan 2 TKL Pro easier to clean, as dust and other debris have no place to hide (I dread to think how many crumbs are lurking beneath the crevices of my other keyboards). It also makes removing the keycaps easier when you want to swap them out for third-party ones.
Despite their floating nature, the keycaps feel secure, firmly fixed in place with little play or wobble. They’re indented, save for those on the bottom row, which are convex instead – a smart design choice that makes them easier to press with your little finger and thumb.
There’s also a handy volume dial in the top-right corner, which has smooth notches and a solid button press for muting. However, neither the dial or the button can be remapped to perform other functions.
To get the most out of the analog switches in the Vulcan 2 TKL Pro, you’ll need to acquaint yourself with Swarm 2, Turtle Beach’s peripheral software. Unfortunately, it fails to make a great first impression. The typeface is rendered poorly and the layout isn’t exactly intuitive. I frequently encountered dialog boxes telling me certain functions and features weren’t available without navigating to another tab, and many settings just aren’t explained well – or even at all. There’s also no way to see a quick overview of the rebind choices you’ve made – you have to click on each individual key to reveal them.
(Image credit: Future)
I experienced one crash during my time with Swarm 2; a settings adjustment window failed to open and the app froze before shutting down altogether. A simple restart fixed the issue, though.
It contains many of the standard features you'd expect from peripheral software, including RGB adjustments, multiple profile slots (five), and a macro creator. It also offers different layers for customization, including a Game Mode (not to be confused with Windows’ own Game Mode), which is activated by pressing FN+Start (again: not made clear), and an Easy Shift mode that can be activated by holding caps lock. You can set it to toggle instead, but this option isn’t easy to find, buried in the hotkey rebind section.
Speaking of which, there are plenty of hotkey options in Swarm 2. The selection is both broad and useful, including some pretty advanced functions that can be activated with a single keypress, such as opening a Direct X diagnostics tool and the Windows Registry Editor.
The real meat of Swarm 2, though, lies in the detailed actuation adjustments available. The Vulcan 2 TKL Pro has Hall-effect magnetic switches, with the actuation point of each adjustable from 0.1-4mm. You can also increase or decrease actuation via two hotkeys on the plus and minus keys. The number key LEDs light up to indicate your adjustments, but they aren’t clear enough to tell what setting you’re on.
There are also Rapid Trigger and Multi-input modes. The former lets you adjust the point at which the key resets to accept further inputs, independently from the actuation point. This allows for quick, controlled movements and key spamming. You can select individual keys to apply Rapid Trigger to, but Swarm 2 fails to mention that you can click and drag to select multiple keys instead. More obscurities can be found in the test mode for Rapid Trigger, as it fails to provide visual feedback for the adjustments you make, which would be extremely useful in helping you see the direct effect of your tweaks.
Multi-input mode lets you create up to three different inputs for the same key, depending on how hard you press. With this setting, you can’t assign controller inputs, only keystrokes and mouse clicks are permitted.
One of the problems with both these modes is that you can’t adjust and test your settings in the same window, which would streamline the whole process. You can, however, do this in Controller mode.
This mode allows you to assign keys to gamepad inputs. To achieve this in-game, the Vulcan 2 TKL Pro emulates a controller (I suspect it utilizes XInput, Microsoft’s protocol for using gamepads on PC). This includes the emulation of analog sticks and trigger buttons, letting you modulate the amount of input based on how far down you press the keys. In theory, this is useful for games requiring careful movement – there’s even a handy WASD-to-analog-stick quick-bind setting for this very purpose – and vehicle control. There’s also an angle-snapping option in this mode, offering 0-90 degrees of ‘snapping’; useful if you want to adjust the separation between the x and y axis.
Design & features: 3.5 / 5
Turtle Beach Vulcan 2 TKL Pro review: performance
Good for gaming
Adjustable actuation points
Controller mode impractical
Thanks to those floating keys, the Vulcan 2 TKL Pro has a typewriter-like feel, which creates a greater sense of feedback. Despite this, it isn’t a board I would recommend for frequent typing.
The T-shaped ABS keycaps are narrower than those on most gaming keyboards, and I found they took some getting used to. Gliding over them isn’t seamless, due to the steep indentations on the keycaps, while the small enter key is hard to locate by feel. Having the ability to adjust the actuation point across a wide range certainly helps to prevent mispresses, but if you’re thinking of using your board for productivity as well as gaming, this likely won’t be for you.
If you’re only concerned with the latter, the Vulcan 2 TKL Pro acquits itself well. The switches are very clicky, with enough damping to feel pleasant to use, but if you really hammer down on them you’ll be met with a harsh thud. The aforementioned actuation adjustments make for quick responses, and those indented keycaps help secure your fingers in place.
The standard Actuation Point and Rapid Trigger modes generally live up to their promises. The former’s adjustment options result in meaningful changes to keystroke sensitivity, while the latter’s allow you to perform quick-twitch movements with greater speed and accuracy once set to your preferences.
(Image credit: Future)
However, the same can’t be said for Multi-input mode, as applying the exact amount of pressure to hit a certain actuation point for a certain input is difficult. I struggle to think of many gaming situations where this functionality would be useful. You also can’t assign controller functions in this mode, which seems like a missed opportunity; only keystrokes and mouse clicks are assignable.
And then there’s Controller mode. In theory, this is a nice idea, but, in practice, it fails to translate analog inputs from gamepads to keystrokes as smoothly as I would’ve liked. Changing the response curve to the precision setting did help to make movements somewhat more controlled, but still not enough. Maneuvering in-game vehicles was too jerky during my tests; the greater weight, size, and resistance of analog sticks and trigger buttons are much better suited to the task.
There’s also the issue of which games practically support Controller mode. In Grand Theft Auto 5, for instance, I found a clash between gamepad and keyboard control schemes. Naturally, moving a character forward and backward with a controller requires moving the analog stick. However, in vehicles, accelerate and brake/reverse are bound to R2 and L2, with no option in-game to alter this.
This means that binding WASD to analog stick controls will let you move a character in all directions, but with vehicles, you’ll only be able to steer left and right. You could keep W and A bound as they are and sacrifice some of that nuanced control, or use the easy shift function on the Vulcan 2 TKL Pro as a workaround, but this will require you to press caps lock every time you switch between pedestrian and vehicular travel. In other words, it’s simply too impractical to be worth using.
Performance: 3.5/ 5
Should I buy the Turtle Beach Vulcan 2 TKL Pro?
Buy it if…
You want analog-style controls It’s not every day you see a keyboard with pressure-sensitive switches. If you desperately want to emulate a controller, albeit not as precisely, this is for you.
You want floating keys Personally, I’m a fan of the uncovered layout, for both aesthetic and practical reasons. If you feel the same way, this is a great example.
You want to save space For a board so solidly made, it’s pleasantly surprising how light and compact the Vulcan 2 TKL Pro is, making it conducive to any desktop setup.
Don’t buy it if…
You want to go wireless Unfortunately, the Vulcan 2 TKL Pro doesn’t have a wireless option, despite having a detachable USB cable.
You want true analog precision Despite the promises, the analog keys don’t offer the same smoothness as gamepads, and they just aren’t as useful in certain games as you might expect.
You want the best software While it offers great functionality in some areas, Swarm 2 isn’t the easiest to navigate and several features aren’t explained clearly.
Also consider
How I tested the Turtle Beach Vulcan 2 TKL Pro
Tested for two weeks
Played multiple genres
10+ years PC gaming experience
I tested the Vulcan 2 TKL Pro for around two weeks, during which time I used it for gaming, productivity, and general use.
I played Counter-Strike 2, the acid test for peripherals, as well as games involving vehicle control, such as Art of Rally and Grand Theft Auto 5.
I have been PC gaming for over 10 years – and many more than that on numerous other platforms – and during that time, I have used many different types of keyboards from a wide range of brands.
The Turtle Beach Burst 2 Air is the brand’s new ultralight gaming mouse promising top-tier performance, which it hopes to achieve with its ergonomic design, quality hardware, and in-depth tweakability.
Considering the Burst 2 Air is a full-size gaming mouse, it’s remarkable that it only tips the scales at 47g, undercutting many gaming mice in the lightweight category. Rather than sporting an all-over honeycomb design to shed the weight, it has just two small cutouts underneath that expose the underside to the PCB within. Despite this absence of material, Turtle Beach has managed to include a handy slot to store the 2.4GHz USB receiver. As an exercise in cutting weight, it’s impressive.
With its understated appearance, the Burst 2 Air cuts a rather unremarkable figure, especially compared to the audacious looks of some of the best gaming mice. The white colorway I tested does look more vibrant than its black counterpart, and the light gray accents on the logo, side buttons, and scroll wheel are a nice touch. There are two small LEDs, one between the mouse buttons and another under the scroll wheel, but these are relatively subtle. The finish is smooth with a slight texture that I found suitable for my palm and fingers, although grip tape is included in the box for those who prefer something more substantial.
The Burst 2 Air fits nicely in the hand, with an even curve all around, although there’s slightly more bulk towards the back end. There isn’t much of a forward rake either, so it doesn’t feel like your fingers are falling away. Turtle Beach doesn’t recommend specific grip styles but it seems ideal for most, though it may be too bulky for those who prefer the claw type. My only real complaint about the shape of the Burst 2 Air is that the sides cinch inwards a little too much for my liking, making it harder to squeeze during those clutch moments.
The mouse wheel is softly notched but still provides enough security to prevent mis-scrolls. It’s tight and secure when pressed, while still being easy to actuate. The side buttons are very clicky, and their angle and protrusion make them easy to use. Rather than being situated on top or underneath, as is typical for many gaming mice, the DPI cycle button is located on the left front side. It’s small and pressing it can be awkward, given it’s quite close to the bottom, meaning your thumb ends up pressing into your desktop. This is a small grievance, though, and the button operates smoothly.
(Image credit: Future)
When it comes to the business of gaming, the Burst 2 Air is a joy to use. Maneuverability is exceptional, gliding effortlessly on almost any surface, thanks to the thick PTFE skates. The pre-tensioned optical switches can be activated with light clicks, and although they travel further than I expected, this only adds to their satisfaction. There is the slightest indentation on the buttons themselves, just enough to guide your fingers to the optimal position.
Coupled with the ultra-light total weight, this makes the Burst 2 Air very precise. Of course, what weight, shape, and size is best for a gaming mouse comes down to personal preference, but for me, I found the Burst 2 Air ideal for my hands and swipes. Using it with the included USB cable does add more resistance to movements, but I adapted to it quickly, and I wouldn’t go so far as to call it drag, with all the negative connotations that word brings. As with many braided cables, durability can be an issue, but during my time using it I didn’t notice any fraying.
For customizing and adjusting settings, you’ll need Swarm 2, Turtle Beach’s peripheral software. As soon as you open it, you’re greeted with jagged fonts that are hard to read and fail to inspire much confidence. I have previous experience using this software with a Turtle Beach keyboard, and in that case, I found it to be obtuse in places and not the most user-friendly. Some of my concerns remain in place in the case of the Burst 2 Air, although I do think mice settings are more clearly laid out.
The software allows for all the typical tweaks you'd expect, including adjustments for the DPI. However, this has a clunky implementation, requiring you to drag dots across the screen for each of the five predefined settings. In theory, this interface is a good idea, but it’s poorly executed here, with bugs and glitches occurring until I updated the mouse’s firmware. The update also fixed the battery level readout, which was previously stuck at 18%, even when charging.
There are also adjustments for the poll rate, with five settings ranging from 125Hz to 1000Hz, and a debounce time slider in a nondescript unit between 0 and 10 (a lot of other software I’ve tested measure this in milliseconds). There’s also DCU calibration, which is equivalent to lift-off distance. There are two predefined settings, very low and low, as well as a custom mode that automatically sets the distance based on a few test movements. Again, though, there is no indication in any setting as to what the exact distance you’ve set is.
(Image credit: Future)
Other settings include angle snapping, which smooths cursor movements by making them more linear, and motion sync, which aligns the mouse’s polling rate to that of your PC, so only the latest polling data is read. In theory, this improves accuracy as tracking becomes more seamless, but in reality, only hardcore pro players will likely notice or care about this. During my tests, I failed to notice much difference when activated.
It’s also compatible with Nvidia Reflex, which claims to reduce input latency even further when gaming. It requires an Nvidia GPU and a monitor compatible with Nvidia G-Sync (although my FreeSync monitor worked with this too). It’s only currently supported by a handful of games, and again it’s a feature that only pro players will likely notice in action.
Switching between the different connectivity modes worked fairly seamlessly in my experience, letting me switch between two devices on the fly with a flick of the switch underneath. Note, however, that when connected via USB cable, this overrides your other connectivity options, so device switching effectively becomes unavailable until you pull the plug.
The claimed battery life of the Burst 2 Air is 120 hours in Bluetooth mode, and 40 when using the 2.4GHz receiver. According to my tests, this seems accurate, as the battery barely dipped below 90% over several days of use, even when set to the maximum 1k poll rate.
The Burst 2 Air is a solid wireless gaming mouse for those who are after a comfortable yet speedy performer. The overall shape, low package weight, connectivity options, and smooth glides are its standout aspects. However, Swarm 2 isn’t the most intuitive peripheral software to use, and the fact is there are better value gaming mice that match the Burst 2 Air for performance, such as the Cooler Master MM311. It’s by no means a bad pointer to plump for, but there are plenty of other great options around for less money.
Turtle Beach Burst 2 Air: Price & availability
(Image credit: Future)
$99 / £99 (about AU$147)
Black and White colorways
The Burst 2 Air is priced at $99 / £99 (about AU$147) and is available now. It comes in either Black or White colorways.
For a gaming mouse of this spec, the Burst 2 Air represents pretty average value for money. It competes with other wireless mice such as the Razer DeathAdder V3 Hyperspeed, which offers similar features and functionality. It also supports an 8k poll rate, although this does require Razer’s HyperPolling Wireless Dongle, which costs an extra $29 / £29 / AU$54.
If you’re after a wireless gaming mouse with an 8k poll rate straight out of the box, then be prepared to part with more cash. Offerings in this category can set you back considerably more: the Razer Viper V3 Pro, for example, is over $100 / £150 / AU$275.
However, if you’re happy with 1k, there are more wireless budget picks than ever. For instance, there’s the Cooler Master MM311, which is our current pick as the best gaming mouse for those on a budget – it’s heavier than the Burst 2 Air and runs on AA batteries, though. If you want a rechargeable battery, then the HyperX Pulsefire Haste 2 could fit the bill; although it weighs 61g, it’s slightly cheaper than the Burst 2 Air. There’s also a wired variant with an 8k poll rate for even less.
Turtle Beach Burst 2 Air: Specs
Should you buy the Turtle Beach Burst 2 Air?
Buy it if...
You want a super-light mouse 49g is seriously light, making the Burst 2 Air ideal for rapid movements. It’s even more impressive considering the body is full-size.
You want a smooth glider The Burst 2 Air glides with incredible ease, thanks to the thick PTFE skates, working well on different surface types.
You want multiple connectivity options The Burst 2 Air can be connected using the included USB-C to USB-A PhatomFlex cable, or wirelessly via the 2.4GHz USB receiver or Bluetooth, which allows for quick-switching between devices.
Don't buy it if...
You want a high poll rate Gaming mice that are marketed for esports use usually offer poll rates up to 8k, but the Burst 2 Air tops out at 1k. If this matters to you, then look elsewhere.
You’re on a budget The Burst 2 Air is averagely priced for a gaming mouse of this spec. There are more budget-friendly wireless gaming mice available than ever, so you’ll likely be able to find cheaper alternatives with similar levels of performance.
Turtle Beach Burst 2 Air: Also consider
How I tested the Turtle Beach Burst 2 Air
Tested for two weeks
Played FPS and strategy games
10+ years PC gaming experience
I tested the Burst 2 Air for around two weeks. During that time, I used it with a variety of games, as well as for general use and productivity.
I played FPS titles including Counter-Strike 2, the evergreen peripheral tester, as well as strategy games that almost exclusively use mouse inputs, such as Tactical Breach Wizards.
I have been PC gaming for over a decade, and during that time I have tried a variety of gaming mice of all shapes and sizes from the likes of Razer, Logitech, Alienware, and HyperX, to name a few. I generally prefer full-size mice over miniature ones and prefer a light to medium weight.
The LG Gram 17 is a large but super-light and thin laptop, promising premium productivity performance in a portable package.
Design-wise, the LG Gram 17 is clean and sleek, keeping all its angles and surfaces as minimal as possible. As for build quality, the plastic body doesn’t inspire much confidence, although there’s no denying it saves weight. I found the hinge for the lid very loose, resulting in the display repeatedly rebounding on opening the laptop, which in my mind casted doubt over its durability.
The IPS display is certainly large, but it isn't exactly vibrant. Colors are rendered perfectly well, but LED and OLED displays are usually more impressive, even those with the same 2K resolution of the LG Gram 17. However, it does excel at preventing glare, as per LG's claims; I tried using it in various areas around my living space to produce some unfavorable angles for sunlight, and couldn't catch it out – it remained clear in most conditions.
In terms of performance, the LG Gram 17 handles the tasks it’s designed for with aplomb. The model on test was equipped with an Intel Core Ultra 7 and 32GB of RAM. It made short work of spreadsheet creation and word processing, and could deal with light photo editing. It also played back HD and 4K video content with ease.
During our benchmarking, it outperformed many of the best laptops – such as the Microsoft Surface 7 – for productivity. However, it wasn’t as impressive when it came to GPU workloads, including gaming. The Intel Arc GPU can’t match other high-end GPUs, such as the Nvidia GeForce RTX 4060 in the Dell XPS 17 (9730) we tested.
Mercifully, the LG Gram 17 is mostly free from the bloatware that can plague other Windows laptops. LG’s software suite is mixed in terms of usefulness, but it wasn’t too intrusive or resource-heavy. The most egregious app was LG Recovery and Update, but this only popped up occasionally, and offered desirable updates when it did – although it did fail to make clear that some updates will cause the system to shut down without notice.
The most useful tool in the suite is LG Gram Link, which allows you to connect mobile devices to transfer files and mirror screens both ways. You can also use it to control your mobile device with the LG Gram 17’s trackpad and keyboard. For the most part, all these functions work as intended, although lag and slowdown can be an issue at times.
The battery is very good for this class of laptop, lasting more than 12 hours in our tests, which involved a battery benchmark using PCMark, in addition to running a 1080p 30fps video on a continuous loop. For comparison, the Dell XPS 17 (9730) only managed a little over nine hours, while the Microsoft Surface 7 quit after 10 hours.
One of the major problems with the LG Gram 17, though, is the noise and heat it generates under load. This was apparent even during setup, with the fans whirring up near the start of the process. The low-pitched hum would then elevate during heavy workloads, to the point of becoming distracting. The underside and the keys also became very hot to the touch, giving me cause for concern.
Another issue that severely hampers the LG Gram 17 is the keyboard. Although I usually welcome the inclusion of a number pad, here it forces the character keys too far to the left, creating an awkward typing position. It also means the palm of your right thumb rests on the trackpad, with movements being registered as cursor swipes and sometimes even taps. In addition, the keys, while they feel satisfying and pleasant to tap, can sometimes fail to register, especially the "o" key, which caused me no end of frustration.
This is a hotly contested space, and you'd expect the LG Gram 17 to deliver on its premium promises given the price it commands. However, there are simply better value alternatives that offer not just lightning performance, but also a better design and user experience.
If you’re after a large laptop with plenty of power, then the Dell XPS 17 (9730) is a solid choice. If you want a smaller form factor but still want performance, then our current pick as the best laptop around, the Microsoft Surface 7, would be a great alternative.
LG Gram 17: Price & availability
(Image credit: Future)
£1,999 (about $2,640 / AU$3,910)
Available in three colorways
High-end specs
The LG Gram 17 costs £1,999 (about $2,640 / AU$3,910) and is available now. It arrives in your choice of three finishes – black, white, or charcoal gray – and it can be had with between 16-32GB of LPDDR5x RAM, and a 1TB or 2TB NVMe SSD. As for graphics, you have a choice of either an Intel Arc or Intel Iris XE Graphics GPU.
At this price, the LG Gram 17 is competing in the premium sector, rubbing shoulders with the likes of the Lenovo ThinkPad X1 Yoga Gen 8 – which, in our view, is the best business laptop . That machine is superbly built with an excellent keyboard and display. Specs-wise, it does come in behind the LG Gram 17, and so do its costlier range-topping variants. However, the ThinkPad X1 Yoga Gen 8 is durable and built to last, delivering your money’s worth.
At the other end of the market sits the Acer Travelmate P4, which can be had for as little as $400. For that, you do get lesser specs, with older CPUs and no NVMe SSD options, but we still found it to be a very competent performer.
If you desperately want a 17-inch display, then we think the Dell XPS 17 (9730) is the best laptop with a large screen. It’s also replete with Nvidia GeForce RTX 40 series GPUs, perfect if you’re after serious gaming and content creation pedigree.
LG Gram 17: Specs
(Image credit: Future)
LG Gram 17: Design
(Image credit: Future)
Very light for a large laptop
Number pad compromises ergonomics
Keystroke and trackpad issues
As with many Windows laptops in recent years, the LG Gram 17 takes design cues from Apple’s MacBook line. It keeps to a minimal aesthetic, with clean edges and surfaces unsullied by unnecessary bulges or protrusions.
However, almost immediately on opening its lid my confidence in the build quality of the LG Gram 17 was sapped. The hinge is incredibly loose, meaning the display ricochets like a pendulum. It could be argued this is the price you pay for such an effortless mechanism, but I don’t think this bodes well for its longevity.
In fact, the premium feel is lacking from the entire chassis – although, again, this may be the sacrifice for keeping the LG Gram 17's weight down. And for a 17-inch laptop, it's impressively light and thin, which makes traveling with it far less hassle than it otherwise would; it slotted nicely into my backpack for my commute to the office, and I didn’t feel overburdened. There’s no doubt that as large laptops go, the LG Gram 17 is one of the most portable around.
The keys are compact and well made. The trackpad is highly engineered and large, too, with a very smooth surface that creates little friction. This makes for pleasant and precise swipes and gestures.
As fond as I am of number pads, incorporating one in the LG Gram 17 does compromise its ergonomics. It means the character keys are forced over to the left, which I found made the typing position more awkward, with my right hand closer to the left than I’m used to.
It’s welcoming to see a large screen that isn’t compromised by a thick bezel. What's a shame, though, is how much the bezel protrudes on the LG Gram 17, with the display itself set quite far back – another area where you can tell corners have been cut, and where it fails to live up to the sleekness of Apple’s laptops, despite its attempts to emulate their style.
(Image credit: Future)
The display itself uses IPS technology, which produces a fine enough image. However, it fails to impart a level of sharpness you'd expect from the 2L/ WQXGA resolution. On smaller screens that same resolution looks sharp and sleek, but that fidelity starts to deteriorate once it’s stretched out to 17-inch. However, what can be said in its favor is its anti-glare properties, which do indeed help to retain visibility even in bright sunlight.
As for port selection, the LG Gram 17 has two USB-C and two USB-A ports, the former pair on the left and the latter on the right. There’s also a headphone output, a microSD card slot, and an HDMI port. Oddly, the latter is located before the USB-C ports, meaning that your charging cable will be plugged in closer to the front than you'd expect, which might upset those who are particular about cable management.
The keys are well damped with just enough travel, making for a snappy and satisfying feel. However, all too frequently my keystrokes would fail to register, in particular when hitting the "o" key, for reasons I struggle to fathom. As a conservative estimate, I'd say that more than half the time presses would result in nothing appearing on-screen.
Another typing issue is the aforementioned position of the character keys. As well as making the hand position awkward, it also resulted in my right thumb palm resting on part of the trackpad. Occasionally, this would cause swipes and taps to register.
For any laptop, these two issues pose a major obstacle for getting work done. However, for one such as the LG Gram 17, designed with productivity in mind, it’s close to unforgivable. These may just be personal issues, with others unaffected; but I’ve never had typing issues to this degree on other laptops I’ve tried.
Conversely, I also experienced too many occasions where the trackpad would fail to register taps I performed deliberately. However, in other aspects, the trackpad is great to use. It’s smooth and accurate, while swipes and gestures are easy to perform consistently, thanks to the responsiveness.
LG Gram 17: Performance
The LG Gram 17 is fast when it comes to performing most productivity tasks. Everything from knocking out spreadsheets and word processing to low-key photo editing is within reach. And, when it comes to downtime, video playback is fast and smooth, even with 4K content. The Intel Core Ultra 7 certainly appears to live up to expectations.
LG Gram 17: Benchmarks
3DMark: Night Raid: 16,752; Fire Strike: 6,131; Time Spy: 2,908 Cinebench R23: 1,595 (single-core); 9,746 (multi-core) GeekBench 6.3: 2,198 (single-core); 11,358 (multi-core) PCMark 10 (Home test): 6,039 PCMark 10 (Battery test): 5,477 Battery Life (TechRadar movie test): 12 hours, 12 minutes
For more intensive workloads, the LG Gram 17 is somewhat inconsistent. In our benchmarking tests, it scored well on office-based tasks. It beat the Microsoft Surface 7 in the PCMark Home test, although it did lose to it in GeekBench single- and multi-core tests with considerably lower scores.
For more graphics-heavy workloads, scores weren’t so great either. The LG Gram 17 still beat the Surface 7, but in our Dell XPS 17 (9730) review, this laptop performed far better – not exactly surprising, given the LG Gram 17 I had to test came with an Intel Arc GPU, rather than an Nvidia GeForce RTX 4060 featured in the XPS 17 (9730) we tested.
Thankfully, the LG Gram 17 keeps the bloatware to a minimum, with only a handful of LG apps preinstalled. Most of these function well for the most part, and refrain from eating into performance or bombarding you with notifications. The LG Recovery and Update can intrude at times with notifications; but, thankfully, most of them are worthy of your attention.
Other LG apps include ThinQ, which, quite frankly, seemed redundant, only letting me contact support; and LG Gram Link, which lets you connect with your mobile device, allowing for file sharing to screen mirroring. Both function well, although the mobile app did have trouble connecting to my network until an update fixed the issue.
(Image credit: Future)
Mirroring my phone screen on the LG Gram 17 worked well, but keyboard and trackpad inputs were sluggish. You can also duplicate and extend the LG Gram 17 display on your smartphone, and this is more responsive, although I think it would be better to mirror on a tablet than a small smartphone screen. Using the keyboard and trackpad to control my phone was also responsive during my tests, although for some reason I wasn’t able to scroll web pages on the Chrome mobile app.
One of the chief annoyances I had with the LG Gram 17 was the noise. Occasionally – and especially when setting up – there would be a low-end hum, elevating to a higher pitch and louder volume under more intensive workloads. I was almost convinced it was the sound of a hard disk, as it sounded very similar.
After the initial setup, fan noise became less frequent, but would still rear its ugly head from time to time. In addition, the base of the LG Gram 17 would also on occasion become hot, which would be uncomfortable if using the machine on your lap. Sometimes, even the keys themselves became hot to the touch. This was a real cause for concern, and didn’t instill me with much confidence to use the LG Gram 17 for heavy workloads over long stretches.
As far as the speakers go, they perform well enough, offering a balanced sound without distortion. They don’t have much impact, but compared to most other laptops, they acquit themselves admirably.
LG Gram 17: Battery
(Image credit: Future)
Although LG doesn’t provide a figure for the battery life of the Gram 17, it does claim it to be “ultra-long”. During my tests, I found it could handle more than a whole day’s worth of work.
I tested the battery life by using the 3DMark benchmarking tool, as well as playing a 1080p 30fps video on a loop. From a full charge, the LG Gram 17 lasted an impressive 12 hours and 12 minutes before shutting down.
This means the LG Gram 17 eclipses the Microsoft Surface 7, our current pick as the best laptop overall, which lasted about 10 hours during our tests. It also beats our pick for the best large laptop, the Dell XPS 17 (9730), which managed 9 hours and 5 minutes.
Should you buy the LG Gram 17?
(Image credit: Future)
Buy it if...
You want something large but light It’s impressive how the LG Gram 17 manages to fit a big display in such a light package, making it a lot easier to travel with than you might expect.
You’ll be using it for work The LG Gram 17 handles office-based tasks well, including intensive ones. It’s also very capable of entertaining you with its hi-res content streaming pedigree.
Don't buy it if...
You’re on a budget There’s no getting away from it: the LG Gram 17 is expensive, and there are cheaper alternatives out there that offer the same performance.
LG Gram 17: Also consider
How I tested the LG Gram 17
Tested for one week
Performed various tasks and benchmarking
Plentiful experience with PC laptops
I tested the LG Gram 17 for about a week, trying out its features and functions. I used it for a variety of tasks, from streaming video and editing photos, to general productivity and browsing. I also worked with it on a desktop and my lap on a sofa, and in various lighting conditions, too. I commuted with it to test its portability.
I put the LG Gram 17 through TechRadar’s benchmarking procedure, which involves using multiple tools repeatedly to test laptops and desktops as thoroughly as possible. These emulate various workloads, from productivity and content editing to gaming.
I have plenty of experience with laptops of all varieties, from Windows machines, MacBooks and Chromebooks. I also have experience testing tablets and using desktop PCs for gaming.
