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I reviewed Insta360’s 4K webcam – even if you don’t think you need this PC upgrade, it’s one you’ll be so happy you made
12:41 pm | June 11, 2025
Author: admin | Category: Computers Computing Gadgets Peripherals & Accessories Webcams | Tags: , | Comments: Off

Insta360 Link 2C: review

The Insta360 Link 2C is a webcam that has pretty large shoes to fill. When the Chinese camera company released its predecessor a few years back, it was lauded as a top-tier, premium option, thanks to its excellent 4K video and smart use of AI. So now comes the Insta360 Link 2C, which aims to offer even more AI capabilities and superior noise cancellation among other things. So, does it deliver?

Well, before I answer that definitely, I want to start by exploring picture and video quality on the Insta360 Link 2C. Now, whether I was taking a video call on Google Meet or simply messing around with the camera app on my Windows laptop, I always looked ultra clear, with finer details – including individual hair strands, facial hairs, and markings on my face all bubbling to the surface.

That’s largely thanks to the Insta360 Link 2C offering up 4K resolution – something we always look for in our hunt for the best webcams. Of course, that premium quality isn’t going to come through on all video calling software, but if you’re a content creator or simply want top-tier performance, 4K support is going to be a must-have. For reference, this webcam also supports lower resolutions, such as 1080p, 720p and 360p, at varying frame rates.

Yes, if you’re taking a video in 4K, for example, you’re going to get 30fps – more than enough for some, but 4K 60fps is available on models like the pricey Elgato Facecam Pro. 60fps is available on the Link 2C, though you’ll have to drop the resolution to 1080p or 720p.

When holding up objects like an earbuds charging case or a piece of paper, the webcam was also excellent at shifting focus onto them. That’s thanks to enhanced Phase Detection Auto Focus, which speedily captures details on anything you want to highlight to your colleagues, students, or family on a video call.

And there are so many more features to uncover too, many of which can be found on the free-to-download Insta360 Link Controller software. Here, you’re able to mess around with a range of picture settings like exposure and white balance, as well as try out different filters – stuff like blur, bokeh, and even a makeup tool. I felt that the Link 2C could be a bit better in low-light conditions, but this doesn’t have to be the case if you drill into the settings in this companion. Simply jump in and activate HDR while also flicking brightness up and you’ll see a big improvement.

Insta360 Link Controller also lets you toggle gestures on and off – something I was really looking forward to using. If you hold your hand up – you know, like those big red hands on crossing lights – you can frame the shot to you. There’s also a whiteboard option, which will keep whatever you’re writing on squared and in focus. Both of these work well, and I found them useful when making a video call or just having a bit of fun in the companion software.

But one option that didn’t work so seamlessly for me, was the zoom in and zoom out gesture. You have to make an ‘L’ shape with your hand, which will make the webcam’s green LED light flash. After this, you can move that L shape up or down to zoom in or out respectively. But I found this to work a little more sporadically than I’d hoped. A good amount of the time, it worked well, but I often found that I had to make the L shape multiple times before it was registered, or the zooming would end a little prematurely.

Still, the vast majority of features worked without question on a very consistent basis. Stuff like auto-framing and AI tracking followed my movements with ease – ideal for an especially fidgety person like myself. Meanwhile, the 2C adds pause-track areas, which help the webcam to recognize areas that it shouldn't track you – perhaps if you don’t want to show under your desk, say.

Insta360 Link 2C with shutter partially closed

(Image credit: Future)

One of the improvements that the Link 2C is intended to bring is superior noise cancelling. That’s something you’re gonna want if you’re taking calls in a busy office environment, for example. I asked a colleague to make some noises while I called my friend and the results were decent, all things considered. Clapping, for instance, was still very much audible, but stuff like typing and light chatter was dulled nicely.

There are three modes: Voice Focus, Voice Suppression, and Music Balance – but none of these are going to offer the clarity you’ll get from the best microphones for streaming. Ultimately, my voice didn’t sound ultra-crisp on the 2C, but it will plate up clear enough quality for more casual users.

Still, audio is handled pretty well by webcam standards. But something that’s truly fantastic about the Link 2C is its design. It has a real premium metallic feel and finish, diminutive magnetic clip-stand and discreet detailing around the lens. It’s also ultra practical thanks to its compact size, slider for covering the camera and USB-C connectivity. There’s no gimbal or tripod for the 2C model, but if you’re after that, you can grab the standard Link 2 model.

There’s only one way I can tie all of this together and that’s by talking about price. Now, my mind was genuinely blown by the price of the original Insta360 Link – it was almost $300 / £320 / AU$570! But the Link 2C is far more affordable, while still offering some improvements over its predecessor, including better noise cancelling and a sleeker look. This newer webcam will set you back just under $150 / £150 / AU$250, and given the overall performance and quality of the product, I’d say that’s strong overall value for money.

So, at the end of it all, would I recommend the Insta360 Link 2C? Yes, definitely! You get super sharp video, responsive auto-frame adjustment, decent audio (well, by webcam standards), and really neat companion software for fine-tuning everything to your liking. In honesty, the Link 2C has given my setup the facelift I didn’t even know it needed – I’m seeing more detail and fluidity than ever, in each video call. And that’s something I’ve really grown to appreciate.

Sure, the zoom in/out gesture could be a little more reliable and I’d still be inclined to purchase a separate mic for the best speech clarity. But from the upgrade I’ve seen to my work the Insta360 Link 2C is still a fantastic all-round package.

Reverse side of Insta360 Link 2C on top of a display

(Image credit: Future)

Insta360 Link 2C review: price & availability

  • $149 / £149 / AU$249
  • Launched in September 2024

The Insta360 Link 2C launched alongside the Link 2 in September 2024, two years after its predecessor. The Link 2C carries a list price of $149 / £149 / AU$249, which is drastically, and I mean drastically, cheaper than the original model cost at launch. Yep, the original Insta360 Link released with a list price of $299 / £319 / AU$569 – woah. But don’t be fooled: the 2C has made some improvements over its predecessor, with better noise cancelling, AI features and a prettier build. I know which one I’d pick!

It’s worth noting, by the way, that the Link 2C comes in two color variants: Arctic White; or the version I tested, Graphite Black. The version you pick should have little to no bearing on the price you pay.

Insta360 Link 2C review: specs

Supported resolutions

4K at 30fps, 1080p / 720p at 60fps, 360p at 30fps

Sensor

1/2-inch

Lens

Not specified

Focal length

26mm

Aperture

f/1.8

Focal length

26mm

Field of view

79.5 degrees

Insta360 Link 2C with green LED active

(Image credit: Future)

Should you buy the Insta360 Link 2C?

Insta360 Link 2C webcam report card

Attributes

Notes

Rating

Design

Practical, diminutive and premium-feeling build, sleeker than original.

5/5

Performance

Great video quality, plenty of settings to play with, some gesture issues.

4/5

Value

Huge price-cut over original, not too pricey against competition.

4.5/5

Buy it if...

You need quality video for online work or education
I found picture quality to look detailed and lifelike throughout my entire time testing the Insta360 Link 2C. If you’re an online teacher, content creator, or someone that takes a lot of video conference calls, this webcam can take your on-screen presence to the next level.

You want a highly customizable user experience
If you download the Insta360 Link Controller software, you’ll be able to adjust all kinds of picture settings, use filters and toggle gestures on and off. If you want a highly tuneable webcam experience, the Link 2C offers just that.

Don't buy it if...

You need 4K at 60fps video
OK, so I was impressed by the 4K at 30fps video offered by the Insta360 Link 2C. But for some, that may still not be enough. If you’re a content creator, for instance, who wants to unlock true peak performance, it could be worth checking out a webcam that supports 4K at 60fps video, such as the Elgato Facecam.

You’re on a tight budget
Although the Link 2C is great value, especially considering the launch price of its predecessor, its still fairly pricey at $149 / £149 / AU$249. If you’re on a budget but want to improve video on your setup, I’d recommend checking out the Osbot Meet SE, which I’ll discuss a little more down below.

Insta360 Link 2C: also consider

Insta360 Link 2C

HP 960 4K Streaming Webcam

Obsbot Meet SE

Price

$149 / £149 / AU$249

$219.99 / £180 / AU$295

$69 / £65 / AU$119

Supported resolutions

4K at 30fps, 1080p / 720p at 60fps, 360p at 30fps

4K at 30fps, 1080 / 720p at 60fps

1080p at 100fps, 720p at 150fps

Sensor

1/2-inch

Not specified

1/2.8-inch

Lens

Not specified

18mm

Not specified

Focus range

0.1m to ∞

0.1m to ∞

0.1m to ∞

Aperture

f/1.8

f/2.0

f/1.8

Focal length

26mm

Not specified

26mm

Field of view

79.5 degrees

78 / 90 / 100 degrees

78 degrees

HP 960 4K Streaming Webcam
The HP 960 4K Streaming Webcam currently stands as the number one pick in our guide to the best webcams. Why? Well, you get incredible image and audio quality, a premium design and top-tier software features. It’s fairly pricey and may be a little heavy for smaller laptops, say, but it’s a great webcam all the same. Read our full HP 960 4K Streaming Webcam review.

Obsbot Meet SE
Meanwhile, our top overall pick is the Obsbot Meet SE, which is a fair bit cheaper than the Insta360 Link 2C. You’re not going to get 4K video – though a huge portion of video calling platforms won’t support that anyway. So, what you do get is fluid 1080p, 100fps video and a cute, compact design at an excellent low price. Again, gesture controls aren’t perfect and this isn’t the most high-end option, but we love what the Meet SE has to offer. Read our full Obsbot Meet SE review.

How I tested the Insta360 Link 2C

Insta360 Link 2C with shutter closed

(Image credit: Future)
  • Tested in a one-week period
  • Made video calls and experimented with photo and video independently
  • Exhausted range of features and settings in companion software

I had the Insta360 Link 2C connected to my work setup across a one-week period, testing out its various features and functions. Well, actually, I’ve kept it in my setup beyond initial testing – I’ve enjoyed using it that much!

In order to assess the Link 2C’s quality I tried making a number of video calls, taking photos, and playing around with picture settings in the Insta360 Link Controller software. I compared it to my laptop’s inbuilt camera, tried out gesture controls and also tested quality in both natural and low-light conditions.

Speaking more generally, I’ve tested a huge quantity of products here at TechRadar as a resident Reviews Writer. That covers everything from the latest TVs through to electric shavers – I’ve got experience right across the board.

I reviewed Insta360’s 4K webcam – even if you don’t think you need this PC upgrade, it’s one you’ll be so happy you made
12:41 pm |
Author: admin | Category: Computers Computing Gadgets Peripherals & Accessories Webcams | Tags: , | Comments: Off

Insta360 Link 2C: review

The Insta360 Link 2C is a webcam that has pretty large shoes to fill. When the Chinese camera company released its predecessor a few years back, it was lauded as a top-tier, premium option, thanks to its excellent 4K video and smart use of AI. So now comes the Insta360 Link 2C, which aims to offer even more AI capabilities and superior noise cancellation among other things. So, does it deliver?

Well, before I answer that definitely, I want to start by exploring picture and video quality on the Insta360 Link 2C. Now, whether I was taking a video call on Google Meet or simply messing around with the camera app on my Windows laptop, I always looked ultra clear, with finer details – including individual hair strands, facial hairs, and markings on my face all bubbling to the surface.

That’s largely thanks to the Insta360 Link 2C offering up 4K resolution – something we always look for in our hunt for the best webcams. Of course, that premium quality isn’t going to come through on all video calling software, but if you’re a content creator or simply want top-tier performance, 4K support is going to be a must-have. For reference, this webcam also supports lower resolutions, such as 1080p, 720p and 360p, at varying frame rates.

Yes, if you’re taking a video in 4K, for example, you’re going to get 30fps – more than enough for some, but 4K 60fps is available on models like the pricey Elgato Facecam Pro. 60fps is available on the Link 2C, though you’ll have to drop the resolution to 1080p or 720p.

When holding up objects like an earbuds charging case or a piece of paper, the webcam was also excellent at shifting focus onto them. That’s thanks to enhanced Phase Detection Auto Focus, which speedily captures details on anything you want to highlight to your colleagues, students, or family on a video call.

And there are so many more features to uncover too, many of which can be found on the free-to-download Insta360 Link Controller software. Here, you’re able to mess around with a range of picture settings like exposure and white balance, as well as try out different filters – stuff like blur, bokeh, and even a makeup tool. I felt that the Link 2C could be a bit better in low-light conditions, but this doesn’t have to be the case if you drill into the settings in this companion. Simply jump in and activate HDR while also flicking brightness up and you’ll see a big improvement.

Insta360 Link Controller also lets you toggle gestures on and off – something I was really looking forward to using. If you hold your hand up – you know, like those big red hands on crossing lights – you can frame the shot to you. There’s also a whiteboard option, which will keep whatever you’re writing on squared and in focus. Both of these work well, and I found them useful when making a video call or just having a bit of fun in the companion software.

But one option that didn’t work so seamlessly for me, was the zoom in and zoom out gesture. You have to make an ‘L’ shape with your hand, which will make the webcam’s green LED light flash. After this, you can move that L shape up or down to zoom in or out respectively. But I found this to work a little more sporadically than I’d hoped. A good amount of the time, it worked well, but I often found that I had to make the L shape multiple times before it was registered, or the zooming would end a little prematurely.

Still, the vast majority of features worked without question on a very consistent basis. Stuff like auto-framing and AI tracking followed my movements with ease – ideal for an especially fidgety person like myself. Meanwhile, the 2C adds pause-track areas, which help the webcam to recognize areas that it shouldn't track you – perhaps if you don’t want to show under your desk, say.

Insta360 Link 2C with shutter partially closed

(Image credit: Future)

One of the improvements that the Link 2C is intended to bring is superior noise cancelling. That’s something you’re gonna want if you’re taking calls in a busy office environment, for example. I asked a colleague to make some noises while I called my friend and the results were decent, all things considered. Clapping, for instance, was still very much audible, but stuff like typing and light chatter was dulled nicely.

There are three modes: Voice Focus, Voice Suppression, and Music Balance – but none of these are going to offer the clarity you’ll get from the best microphones for streaming. Ultimately, my voice didn’t sound ultra-crisp on the 2C, but it will plate up clear enough quality for more casual users.

Still, audio is handled pretty well by webcam standards. But something that’s truly fantastic about the Link 2C is its design. It has a real premium metallic feel and finish, diminutive magnetic clip-stand and discreet detailing around the lens. It’s also ultra practical thanks to its compact size, slider for covering the camera and USB-C connectivity. There’s no gimbal or tripod for the 2C model, but if you’re after that, you can grab the standard Link 2 model.

There’s only one way I can tie all of this together and that’s by talking about price. Now, my mind was genuinely blown by the price of the original Insta360 Link – it was almost $300 / £320 / AU$570! But the Link 2C is far more affordable, while still offering some improvements over its predecessor, including better noise cancelling and a sleeker look. This newer webcam will set you back just under $150 / £150 / AU$250, and given the overall performance and quality of the product, I’d say that’s strong overall value for money.

So, at the end of it all, would I recommend the Insta360 Link 2C? Yes, definitely! You get super sharp video, responsive auto-frame adjustment, decent audio (well, by webcam standards), and really neat companion software for fine-tuning everything to your liking. In honesty, the Link 2C has given my setup the facelift I didn’t even know it needed – I’m seeing more detail and fluidity than ever, in each video call. And that’s something I’ve really grown to appreciate.

Sure, the zoom in/out gesture could be a little more reliable and I’d still be inclined to purchase a separate mic for the best speech clarity. But from the upgrade I’ve seen to my work the Insta360 Link 2C is still a fantastic all-round package.

Reverse side of Insta360 Link 2C on top of a display

(Image credit: Future)

Insta360 Link 2C review: price & availability

  • $149 / £149 / AU$249
  • Launched in September 2024

The Insta360 Link 2C launched alongside the Link 2 in September 2024, two years after its predecessor. The Link 2C carries a list price of $149 / £149 / AU$249, which is drastically, and I mean drastically, cheaper than the original model cost at launch. Yep, the original Insta360 Link released with a list price of $299 / £319 / AU$569 – woah. But don’t be fooled: the 2C has made some improvements over its predecessor, with better noise cancelling, AI features and a prettier build. I know which one I’d pick!

It’s worth noting, by the way, that the Link 2C comes in two color variants: Arctic White; or the version I tested, Graphite Black. The version you pick should have little to no bearing on the price you pay.

Insta360 Link 2C review: specs

Supported resolutions

4K at 30fps, 1080p / 720p at 60fps, 360p at 30fps

Sensor

1/2-inch

Lens

Not specified

Focal length

26mm

Aperture

f/1.8

Focal length

26mm

Field of view

79.5 degrees

Insta360 Link 2C with green LED active

(Image credit: Future)

Should you buy the Insta360 Link 2C?

Insta360 Link 2C webcam report card

Attributes

Notes

Rating

Design

Practical, diminutive and premium-feeling build, sleeker than original.

5/5

Performance

Great video quality, plenty of settings to play with, some gesture issues.

4/5

Value

Huge price-cut over original, not too pricey against competition.

4.5/5

Buy it if...

You need quality video for online work or education
I found picture quality to look detailed and lifelike throughout my entire time testing the Insta360 Link 2C. If you’re an online teacher, content creator, or someone that takes a lot of video conference calls, this webcam can take your on-screen presence to the next level.

You want a highly customizable user experience
If you download the Insta360 Link Controller software, you’ll be able to adjust all kinds of picture settings, use filters and toggle gestures on and off. If you want a highly tuneable webcam experience, the Link 2C offers just that.

Don't buy it if...

You need 4K at 60fps video
OK, so I was impressed by the 4K at 30fps video offered by the Insta360 Link 2C. But for some, that may still not be enough. If you’re a content creator, for instance, who wants to unlock true peak performance, it could be worth checking out a webcam that supports 4K at 60fps video, such as the Elgato Facecam.

You’re on a tight budget
Although the Link 2C is great value, especially considering the launch price of its predecessor, its still fairly pricey at $149 / £149 / AU$249. If you’re on a budget but want to improve video on your setup, I’d recommend checking out the Osbot Meet SE, which I’ll discuss a little more down below.

Insta360 Link 2C: also consider

Insta360 Link 2C

HP 960 4K Streaming Webcam

Obsbot Meet SE

Price

$149 / £149 / AU$249

$219.99 / £180 / AU$295

$69 / £65 / AU$119

Supported resolutions

4K at 30fps, 1080p / 720p at 60fps, 360p at 30fps

4K at 30fps, 1080 / 720p at 60fps

1080p at 100fps, 720p at 150fps

Sensor

1/2-inch

Not specified

1/2.8-inch

Lens

Not specified

18mm

Not specified

Focus range

0.1m to ∞

0.1m to ∞

0.1m to ∞

Aperture

f/1.8

f/2.0

f/1.8

Focal length

26mm

Not specified

26mm

Field of view

79.5 degrees

78 / 90 / 100 degrees

78 degrees

HP 960 4K Streaming Webcam
The HP 960 4K Streaming Webcam currently stands as the number one pick in our guide to the best webcams. Why? Well, you get incredible image and audio quality, a premium design and top-tier software features. It’s fairly pricey and may be a little heavy for smaller laptops, say, but it’s a great webcam all the same. Read our full HP 960 4K Streaming Webcam review.

Obsbot Meet SE
Meanwhile, our top overall pick is the Obsbot Meet SE, which is a fair bit cheaper than the Insta360 Link 2C. You’re not going to get 4K video – though a huge portion of video calling platforms won’t support that anyway. So, what you do get is fluid 1080p, 100fps video and a cute, compact design at an excellent low price. Again, gesture controls aren’t perfect and this isn’t the most high-end option, but we love what the Meet SE has to offer. Read our full Obsbot Meet SE review.

How I tested the Insta360 Link 2C

Insta360 Link 2C with shutter closed

(Image credit: Future)
  • Tested in a one-week period
  • Made video calls and experimented with photo and video independently
  • Exhausted range of features and settings in companion software

I had the Insta360 Link 2C connected to my work setup across a one-week period, testing out its various features and functions. Well, actually, I’ve kept it in my setup beyond initial testing – I’ve enjoyed using it that much!

In order to assess the Link 2C’s quality I tried making a number of video calls, taking photos, and playing around with picture settings in the Insta360 Link Controller software. I compared it to my laptop’s inbuilt camera, tried out gesture controls and also tested quality in both natural and low-light conditions.

Speaking more generally, I’ve tested a huge quantity of products here at TechRadar as a resident Reviews Writer. That covers everything from the latest TVs through to electric shavers – I’ve got experience right across the board.

I’ve been testing gaming headsets for 14 years, and after 27 hours with the SteelSeries Arctis Nova 3 Wireless, I can tell it’s the real deal
5:00 pm | June 3, 2025
Author: admin | Category: Computers Gadgets Gaming | Tags: , | Comments: Off

SteelSeries Arctis Nova 3 Wireless: one-minute review

The SteelSeries Arctis Nova 3 Wireless.

(Image credit: Future)

The SteelSeries Arctis Nova 3 Wireless is a refresh of the company’s previous midrange gaming headset option, back to impress us all as a wireless iteration with tons of functionality that makes it battlestation-ready.

The thing is, there used to be a clear and immediate difference between the sound, feel, and design of gaming headsets. In 2025, though, establishing the hierarchy of available models isn’t as simple. Gaming headsets are a hotly contested space, and there’s very little difference in sound quality between these wireless, dual-connectivity $110 / £100 cans and anything priced within $50 / £50 from competitors like Razer, Logitech G, Corsair, or HyperX. That means its feature set needs to line up with your specific use case for this headset to make sense as your next purchase.

Some of its selling points are universal: great sound, easy setup, and 40 hours of battery life with rapid charging. Over the 30 hours or so I’ve spent using it (the 'X' variant designed with Xbox in mind, specifically), those promises have held true, and there’s no one who wouldn’t appreciate them.

Then it gets more specific. If you want a premium headset that you can easily switch between console and PC sources with, and you’re likely to use the companion app, this is a fantastic package. If you’re more of a minimalist who’ll likely only use it with one device and doesn’t care too much about tweaking settings, the price starts to look steeper, and the likes of Corsair’s meat-and-potatoes wired HS55 Surround headset might meet your needs and save you $40 in the process.

Bottom line: there are plenty of desirable features here and they’re bundled in with the signature comfort and crisp, breezy sound characteristic we’ve all come to expect – and love – from the Arctis range over the years. But the $110 / £100 pricing of these Arctis Nova 3s is a long way north of the wired Nova 3s, which are available for $75.

The SteelSeries Arctis Nova 3X Wireless.

(Image credit: Future)

SteelSeries Arctis Nova 3 Wireless: Price and availability

  • List price: $109.99 / £99.99 / AU$109.99
  • Much pricier than the wired Arctis Nova 3s, albeit with more features
  • Closest rival with similar specs is the Corsair HS80 RGB

The price of this lower-end 3-series of the Arctis range is creeping up, and while there are certainly enough additional bells and whistles to justify it, it does leave a bit of a gap between the $60 and $110 price points within the Arctis lineup.

Conversely, the Arctis Nova 5s and the discounted Nova 7s and 9s are all regularly going for between $120-$140 now, so it feels like it would have made more sense for the Nova 3X to offer a genuine low-budget option.

With this MSRP, the closest competitor that offers similar specs is Corsair’s HS80 RGB. Both are wireless gaming headsets with multi-device support, but on the specs sheet, it’s the SteelSeries that comes out most favorably, thanks to the Bluetooth and 2.4GHz wireless connectivity and fast charging.

The appearance and tactile feel might not yell ‘premium!’ at the top of its voice, but once you get those soft earcups over your ears and feel how lightweight this model is, it starts to make more sense.

SteelSeries Arctis Nova 3 Wireless: specs

Price

$109.99 / £99.99 / AU$109.99

Weight

267g / 0.57 lbs

Battery life

40 hours

Connection type

Bluetooth, 2.4GHz wireless (USB-C receiver)

Compatibility

PC, Xbox Series X (Xbox version only), PlayStation 5, Nintendo Switch, iOS, Android

The SteelSeries Arctis Nova 3 Wireless.

(Image credit: Future)

SteelSeries Arctis Nova 3 Wireless: design and features

  • Typically comfortable design
  • You feel the benefit of those lightweight materials
  • Not the flashiest headset in the world

The ‘Nova’ part of this headset’s name delineates SteelSeries’ refresh of the Arctis line from its original ‘ski goggle headband’ ancestors that debuted in 2017 and gobbled up all the awards, ever.

That means the headband on this model runs underneath a hard plastic support band, popping into place via plastic press studs and suspending the weight of the heavier materials via the lateral tension of the elasticated band.

It’s a smart design that doesn’t look like it should work as well as it does, and it’s helped along by an extremely lightweight construction. On the scales (and the specs sheet), the new 3 Wireless weighs just 9.4oz / 267g. And thanks to that headband, it feels like even less than that.

Not much clamping force is needed to keep this firmly attached around your ears, so there’s a very different sensation than you’d find on the aviator-style HyperX Cloud or Razer Blackshark designs that hug your ears like suction cups.

That all contributes to a wonderful level of long-term wearing comfort, and also, one suspects, to the airy, crisp sound quality that Arctis cans always seem to produce.

The SteelSeries Arctis Nova 3X Wireless.

(Image credit: Future)

In terms of physical controls, it’s a simple array, arranged on the rear-left earcup: a mic mute button, notched volume scroll wheel, power button with light ring, then a USB-C connection and the 3.5mm detachable mic input.

My only gripe with this array is that the plastic surrounding the mic connector doesn’t fit exactly with the shape of the female connection, but that’s really only an aesthetic quibble. Otherwise, all the controls look and feel really nicely built, and they’re sensibly laid out. The scroll wheel feels fantastic, in particular.

On to the visual design. It appears the gaming peripherals market has come full circle: after years of shoving RGB-laden tat with tribal designs all over it, it appears that all those collabs with pro players have paid off, and we’re getting simpler, cleaner designs now that don’t lean into the gamer aesthetic. For that, the Arctis line past and present deserves a pat on the elasticated headband.

However, I’m in the strange and unexpected position of wishing for a bit more edginess here. Not quite a tribal pattern, but… something to better distinguish it from productivity hardware and make me feel like the price is a no-brainer. Perhaps a mix of matte and gloss finishes might have helped.

One last point on the design: it’s too early to tell for this model, but I know through years of using numerous Arctis and Arctis Nova headsets that the headbands do slacken over time, and this affects the comfort level.

Fortunately, SteelSeries sells replacement headbands at a very reasonable price, so when this happens, it’s not a biggie to restore that factory-fresh feeling.

SteelSeries Arctis Nova 3 Wireless: performance

  • Crisp and distinctive audio
  • Switch between PC and console easily
  • Rapid charging is a lifesaver

Let’s talk about sound. At the start of this review, I mentioned that there’s not much in it between the huge range of gaming headsets you could go out and buy in 2025.

Ten years ago, when manufacturers were obsessed with packing the biggest drivers possible into their headsets and shaking your fillings loose with their bass response, there was a huge variance in audio characteristics. Now the difference between models and manufacturers is much subtler.

That said, there’s always been an ‘Arctis sound’. SteelSeries has always preferred a flatter EQ response for this range, with a crisper high end and a pleasant airiness that makes sound cues easier to identify in competitive games, and makes music and movies sound less soupy than historical gaming cans might have done.

That holds true to this Nova 3 Wireless. Part of it’s probably the cloth surface around the earcups, and the light clamping force. They create an almost open-backed headphone sensation, which I find very agreeable, but this is a matter of taste, not an empirical plus point.

EQ profile tweaking can be achieved – to an absurdly exhaustive degree, frankly – via the companion app on your phone. There are presets for tons of specific games already on there at release, but personally, I’d caution that this feature is way more about marketing than user experience. In reality, Call of Duty Black Ops 6, Grand Theft Auto 5, and Fortnite don’t really need distinct presets from each other.

It’s all gunfire and shouting at the end of the day. It’s added value, but unlikely to transform your experience of using this headset. So think carefully about this component and how it fits into the price before you take the leap.

On to more universal wins: I love the fast USB-C charging. The literature states nine hours of battery life from 15 minutes of charge time, and while it’s hard to measure how accurate that statement is during real-world use, based on my week of heavy use, it sounds roughly correct. I’ve certainly never had a session disrupted by battery level, and that’s the bottom line.

As for the mic, it sounds like there’s more compression and noise cancellation happening by default than you’d typically hear on a modern headset mic, and that means it’s prioritising clarity over a full-bodied, boom mic-style sound.

This is the correct priority placement for the vast majority of users, who need a mic to be heard over game audio by their team-mates, rather than to sound broadcast quality to their streaming audiences. If you do create content using a headset mic rather than a dedicated unit, this might not be ideal for you as it’ll require some parameter-fiddling to get a more rounded sound.

Finally, let’s tackle the biggie: multi-device connectivity via 2.4GHz wireless and Bluetooth. The idea here is that ‘battlestation’-type gamers play on several devices in one area, switching between PC and console from one title to the next. Traditionally, using one headset for both can be a slight hassle due to varying connection standards and compatibility. The USB-C dongle here means you can just plug it into whichever device you want to use, and that’s the extent of the setup.

The Nova 3 Wireless’s dual connectivity means you can also stay connected to a gaming device plus your smartphone at the same time, and apply different presets for each via the mobile app so you don’t accidentally end up with Fortnite EQ on your TikTok videos.

Maybe this is a big deal for you. The presets don’t move the needle much for me, but dual-wireless is always a big plus, and it adds a lot to the pricing.

The SteelSeries Arctis Nova 3X Wireless.

(Image credit: Future)

Should I buy the SteelSeries Arctis Nova 3 Wireless?

Buy it if...

You play on several devices regularly
The USB dongle and dual wireless connectivity make this a great ‘battlestation’ headset which you can switch between devices with easily.

You’re forgetful about charging
Low charge bleeps the bane of your existence? You’ll appreciate the nine hours of use you get from 15 minutes plugged in.

You prefer clarity over booming bass response
The Arctis range has always had a pleasant sharp and crisp EQ response that keeps the low end subdued to give the other frequencies some space. The Nova 3 Wireless has that same characteristic.

Don't buy it if...

You’re not going to mess around with presets
The accompanying smartphone app gives you game-specific presets and plenty of tweakable parameters, but that’s not how everyone uses a gaming headset, so consider the value you’d get from it.

You only game on one device
If that USB-C dongle’s getting plugged into one console and one console only, you won’t get much benefit from the dual-wireless and multi-platform support.

You’re on a budget
Although this new model has far more functionality than the wired Nova 3, $110 / £100 can’t quite be considered an entry-level offering.

SteelSeries Arctis Nova 3 Wireless: Also consider

Is the Arctis Nova 3 Wireless leaving you cold? Consider these cable-free, multi-platform alternatives.

SteelSeries Arctis Nova 3 Wireless

Turtle Beach Stealth 600 (gen 3)

PlayStation Pulse Elite

Price

$109.99 / £99.99 / AU$109.99

$99.99 / £99.99 / AU$179

$149.99 / £129.99 / AU$239.95

Weight

267g / 0.57 lbs

0.66lbs / 301g

0.76lbs / 347g

Battery life

40 hours

80 hours

30 hours

Connection type

Bluetooth, 2.4GHz wireless (USB-C receiver)

Wireless (USB-A dongle), wired (USB-C to USB-A)

Wireless (PlayStation Link via dongle), Wired (3.5mm audio jack), Bluetooth

Compatibility

PC, Xbox Series X (Xbox version only), PlayStation 5, Nintendo Switch, iOS, Android

Xbox, Playstation, PC, Nintendo Switch, iOS, Android

PlayStation 5, PlayStation Portal, PC

Turtle Beach Stealth 600
Priced under the new Arctis lineup entrant (unless you live in Australia, sorry), these Stealth 600s pack a mighty battery life and similar multi-device compatibility into a cost-effective package. The comfort and sound levels aren’t quite as strong as SteelSeries’ model, but there’s not much in it.

For more information, check out our full Turtle Beach Stealth 600 (gen 3) review

PlayStation Pulse Elite
Obviously, Xbox players need not apply here, but for switching between PlayStation devices and PC, Sony’s wireless cans offer great comfort and audio quality for a surprisingly affordable price that’s not too far above the Nova 3X’s tag. Plus, they make you look like you’re in Star Trek.

For more information, check out our full PlayStation Pulse Elite review

How I tested the SteelSeries Arctis Nova 3X Wireless

  • 25-30 hours spent testing across multiple devices
  • PC games and iPhone apps used throughout
  • Comfort and battery life evaluated via long-term usage and extended play sessions, audio via music and in-game sound

Over the course of a full week of testing, I spent time in MotoGP 25, Hitman 3, and Shadow Man Remastered on PC. The latter’s 25-year-old audio might not have pushed the 3X’s drivers to their limits, but the new engine audio capture in MotoGP 25 conveyed a lot of detail across the EQ spectrum, and the engine pops sounded particularly rousing. Meanwhile, in a stealth environment like Hitman, the strong surround landscape of this headset gave me plenty of precision about where guard dialogue lines and footsteps were coming from.

I also had the 3 Wireless connected to my iPhone 12 Pro Max via Bluetooth and used them to browse YouTube videos and listen to music on Spotify between PC game sessions. I had plenty of Discord chat on both devices, taking impressions from my mates about mic quality before recording audio directly into Ableton Live for a true analysis.

Finally, I did some A/B testing with my daily drivers, the Razer Blackshark V2 Pros, switching between headsets during the same game to hear the precise differences in audio characteristics from the same sound cues.

First reviewed June 2025

Read more about how we test

I ditched my PC for the MSI Vector A18 HX A9W gaming laptop – here’s my verdict after three weeks
11:00 pm | May 31, 2025
Author: admin | Category: Computers Computing Gadgets Gaming Computers Gaming Laptops | Tags: , , , | Comments: Off

MSI Vector A18 HX A9W: Two-Minute Review

This thing is heavy, seriously... (Image credit: Future / Isaiah Williams)

It's simple. If you're out for a powerful gaming laptop, capable of reaching high and smooth frame rates with minimal performance issues, the MSI Vector A18 HX A9W is your answer. Using Nvidia's RTX 5080 laptop GPU and AMD's Ryzen 9 9955HX processor, gaming is a breeze at its native 2560x1600 resolution without using Team Green's DLSS upscaling technology; however, when it is used, achieving high frame rates is a cakewalk.

It shines best in games like Cyberpunk 2077, Indiana Jones: The Great Circle, and Resident Evil 4 remake. It can struggle when attempting to use ray tracing at maximum graphics settings and at a 4K resolution without enabling DLSS, but that's exactly what Nvidia's tools are there for.

Call of Duty: Black Ops 6 had very little trouble reaching over 100fps, and edged close to the 100fps mark when running on ECO-Silent mode (which is incredible as I'll dive into later), helping reduce the workload and high temperatures, thanks to MSI Center's user scenario options.

With a 240Hz refresh rate, playing less demanding titles like Hades that can reach such frame rates, was an immersive and astonishing gaming experience. I know I've previously said that 144 or 165Hz refresh rates are more than enough for gaming, but with any game that can stay at 240fps without any significant dips, it's very impressive.

It's not all perfect though; this laptop is not ideal for long trips or playing on the go, as it's incredibly heavy (especially when including its 400W power adapter), and you'd need a large backpack to fit the 18-inch laptop in for travels. I found it difficult to use for long hours on a sturdy mini bed desk, with worries that it would snap its legs in pieces, and even at my main gaming desk, with its power adapter taking up space – so, portability isn't the best here.

This isn't an inexpensive system either - however, if you can afford the expense and you're looking for one of the best gaming laptops to provide great gaming performance, look no further.

MSI Vector A18 HX A9W: Price & Availability

  • How much does it cost? Starting at $2,999.99 / £3,199 / AU$6,599 (for RTX 5080 configuration)
  • When is it available? Available now
  • Where can you get it? In the US, UK, and Australia

There's no denying that the MSI Vector A18 HX A9W is a very expensive piece of hardware, instantly locking most gamers out of a potential purchase. However, for those who can afford it, you're getting the bang for your buck with a system that is capable of matching a variety of desktop builds.

With both a powerful AMD processor and Nvidia GPU, it's more than enough to satisfy most gamers' performance needs; the Ryzen 9 9955HX excels at single-core and multi-core processes, which you'll see later below.

With this configuration (A9WIG-006UK), there is no OLED or mini-LED display available, which would've slightly softened the blow of the high price, with an immersive and brighter screen – but that shouldn't hinder the gaming experience here.

The issue is that it's more or just as expensive as some pre-built gaming PCs, which is somewhat reasonable since it's using a CPU as powerful as those in high-end desktops – but the RTX 5080 discrete desktop version is the stronger GPU.

Regardless, this is a gaming laptop that packs plenty of processing power in a beefy and sturdy chassis, cooled very well with its Cooler Boost 5 tech using a 'Dedicated Cooling Pipe', so it's not very surprising to see it cost so much.

Still, the point remains; unless you're adamant on travelling with the Vector A18 HX A9W and using it on the go (which I wouldn't recommend because portability isn't that great here), or just want a PC you can move around your home easily, it might be a better choice to buy a desktop rig.

  • Value: 2.5 / 5

MSI Vector A18 HX A9W: Specs

Resident Evil 4 remake running on MSI Vector A18 HX A9W

You knew you'd see Resident Evil 4 at some point in this review... I'm obsessed with it (Image credit: Future / Isaiah Williams)

MSI Vector A18 HX A9WIG-006UK (Review model UK)

MSI Vector A18 HX A9WIG-223US (Base model US)

MSI Vector A18 HX A9WIG-076US (Highest config)

Price

£3,199

$2,999.99

$3,959

CPU

AMD Ryzen 9955 HX

AMD Ryzen 9955 HX

AMD Ryzen 9955 HX

GPU

Nvidia RTX 5080

Nvidia RTX 5080

Nvidia RTX 5080

RAM

32GB DDR5

32GB DDR5

64GB DDR5

Storage

2TB NVMe Gen 4x4

1TB NVMe Gen 4x4

2TB NVMe Gen 4x4

Display

18" QHD+(2560x1600), 240Hz Refresh Rate, IPS-Level, 100% DCI-P3(Typical)

18" 16:10 QHD+(2560 x 1600), 240Hz, 100% DCI-P3 IPS-Level Panel

18" 16:10 QHD+(2560 x 1600) 240Hz 100% DCI-P3 IPS-Level Panel

Battery

4-Cell,
99.9 Whrs

4-Cell,
99.9 Whrs

4-Cell,
99.9 Whrs

Ports

2x Type-A USB3.2 Gen1, 1x Type-A USB3.2 Gen2, 2x USB 4/DP&PD 3.1 (Thunderbolt 4 Compatible), HDMI 2.1

2x Type-A USB3.2 Gen1, 1x Type-A USB3.2 Gen2, 2x USB 4/DP&PD 3.1 (Thunderbolt 4 Compatible), HDMI 2.1

2x Type-A USB3.2 Gen1, 1x Type-A USB3.2 Gen2, 2x USB 4/DP&PD 3.1 (Thunderbolt 4 Compatible), HDMI 2.1

Dimensions

15.91" x 12.09" x 1.26"

15.91" x 12.09" x 1.26"

15.91" x 12.09" x 1.26"

Weight

3.6 kg / 7.9lbs

3.6 kg / 7.9lbs

3.6 kg / 7.9lbs

MSI Vector A18 HX A9W: Design

Chassis of MSI Vector A18 HX A9W

(Image credit: Future / Isaiah Williams)

I absolutely love the chassis of the Vector A18 HX A9W as it has a sturdy build, and perhaps most importantly, a great cooling pipe design. Even when gaming on Extreme Performance, temperatures were never too high, often hitting a maximum of 77 degrees Celsius.

Its speakers aren't particularly a standout, but are serviceable and get the job done, especially with an equalizer and 3D surround sound available to improve audio immersion. It's also always easier to use Bluetooth speakers or headphones that have much better bass and clarity.

The two Thunderbolt 4 USB-C ports present are ideal for fast file transfers and for those who aren't keen on expanding internal storage with a new SSD, who would rather use an external one. It also features an HDMI 2.1 port on its rear, right next to its power adapter port – and one particular aspect I don't like is the slightly short length of the wire, which often forced me to place the chunky adapter on the desk.

Ports on the MSI Vector A18 HX A9W

Cool design, right? (Image credit: Future / Isaiah Williams)

With an 18-inch screen, you're getting the best you could possibly ask for when it comes to portable gaming – and if you've got a spacious desktop setup, it's a great experience.

However, the screen size and the weight are the only two main issues I have in this region, as you're going to have trouble fitting this in most backpacks for travel, and it's very heavy to carry around.

At 7.9 lbs, it had me paranoid that it would make my mini desk meet its demise, and while it's understandable considering all the powerful components, you should be aware that this laptop isn't built for portability (especially while carrying the adapter around, too).

Regardless, this is a beefy gaming laptop power-wise, and these gripes weren't too significant to spoil my experience overall.

  • Design: 4 / 5

MSI Vector A18 HX A9W: Display

MSI Vector A18 HX A9W

(Image credit: Future / Isaiah Williams)

My review model of the Vector A18 doesn't exactly have the best display available, as it's neither OLED nor mini-LED – both of which offer greater contrast and brightness. However, that doesn't stop it from being an immersive display that I found ideal for intense and competitive multiplayer gaming sessions.

It's thanks to the 240Hz refresh rate and 2560x1600 resolution, which matches up well with the horsepower of the RTX 5080. There aren't many games that are going to run at 240fps (unless you significantly lower graphics settings or resolution), but the ones that do, look absolutely incredible.

I must admit, coming from the consistent use of an OLED ultrawide, it took a little bit of an adjustment to become accustomed to an IPS LCD panel again – but that's to be expected when scaling down from one of the best display types (and it would be unfair to knock points off here because of that).

It's worth noting that HDR isn't present either, which often goes a long way at providing better color accuracy and detail in both brighter and darker images.

Regardless, the Vector A18 HX A9W has a 100% DCI-P3 coverage, so I never once felt dissatisfied or urged to calibrate or adjust color profiles. It also helps that you're getting a full 18-inch screen, which I believe is the sweet spot for portable laptop gaming (besides it probably being why it's so heavy).

The one downside I ran into is playing games that don't have 16:10 aspect ratio support. To put it simply, if you dislike black bars filling out portions of your screen while gaming, you're not going to like it here. So, it's definitely worth considering before committing to a purchase, but there are no other gripes from me.

  • Display: 4 / 5

MSI Vector A18 HX A9W: Performance

MSI Vector A18 HX A9W running Black Ops 6

Sweaty Call of Duty lobbies... we love to see it (Image credit: Future / Isaiah Williams)
  • RTX 5080 is a beast of a laptop GPU
  • The combo with AMD's Ryzen 9955HX processor is fantastic
  • The CPU's performance is incredible, matching desktop processors

The biggest highlight of the MSI Vector A18 HX A9W is its performance, almost across the board. It shouldn't come as a surprise for me to say that the RTX 5080 laptop GPU is an absolute powerhouse, and crushes the 2560x1600 resolution in most triple-A games – and DLSS 4 with Multi Frame Generation is a game changer when used where necessary (essentially anything as demanding as Cyberpunk 2077).

In CPU-bound games, AMD's Ryzen 9955HX processor shines bright with 16 cores and 32 threads, ensuring the Blackwell GPU can do its job without any major bottleneck. In synthetic tests, both single-core and multi-core scores soared above chips like Apple's M1 Max in Cinebench 2024, and in real-world gaming tests, the results were consistent, as I didn't notice anything ominous regarding performance frame rates and frame pacing.

Most importantly, MSI Center features three different user scenario modes: ECO-Silent, Balanced, and Extreme Performance, which can all be used in any of the three Discrete, MSHybrid, or Integrated Graphics modes.

For the best results, I stuck with Discrete Graphics mode, and I must say I was pleasantly surprised at how great ECO-Silent was, in particular. Using a lower TDP (power consumption), temperatures are significantly decreased, and the fans are silent, hence the name ECO-Silent – but I came away shocked at the frame rates I was hitting using this mode.

At 1600p on ECO-Silent, Cyberpunk 2077 at maximum graphics settings without ray tracing and DLSS Quality, it ran at a solid 77fps, sometimes reaching the low 80fps mark, with a 1% low of 66fps.

In Assassin's Creed Shadows – a game that is arguably nearly as demanding on PC hardware as Cyberpunk 2077, and frankly, needs Frame Generation for higher FPS – ran at an average of 40fps on maximum graphics settings at 1600p, using DLSS Quality on ECO-Silent.

With the same graphics settings applied to Indiana Jones and the Great Circle, it hit an average of 62fps; if that doesn't indicate how impressive ECO-Silent mode is, then I don't know what will. It's the best option for gamers who are bothered by fan noise and higher temperatures, while you still get very impressive performance results.

It gets even better with Balanced and Extreme Performance; the former has fans only a little louder than ECO-Silent, and is the way you should use the Vector A18 HX A9W for gaming (it's also MSI's recommended option), as it gives you a true reflection of what this machine is capable of, evident in the performance charts above.

Sticking with Indiana Jones and the Great Circle, Balanced mode was 41% faster than ECO-Silent, with an average of 94fps and 1% low at 77fps.

In the case of Extreme Performance, expect a whole lot of fan noise and higher temperatures, in favor of the best possible performance. In most cases of casual play, I hardly needed to use this mode, as the FPS boost wasn't significant enough coming from Balanced mode. However, it's absolutely essential for gaming at 4K, especially if you're using ray tracing.

It mustn't go without mention that DLSS Multi Frame Generation (when you have a decent base frame rate) is an absolute treat. It makes Cyberpunk 2077's Overdrive path tracing preset playable without needing to adjust graphics settings; yes, increased latency is worth noting, but I honestly didn't think it was too impactful in this case.

  • Performance: 5 / 5

MSI Vector A18 HX A9W: Battery

Male holding the MSI Vector A18 HX A9W's adapter

This heavy adapter is your best friend... forget about the battery (Image credit: Future / Isaiah Williams)

As it is with most gaming laptops I've used, the battery life isn't terrible, but it's also not great either – so, decent at best. We're still seemingly a long way off from battery tech improving, especially for gaming laptops and handheld gaming PCs, but I give the Vector A18 HX A9W its plaudits for being at least average here.

It has a 99.9WHr battery, and switching MSI Center's user scenarios, battery life can vary. While playing Resident Evil 4 remake on Hybrid mode and Extreme Performance, the laptop lasted a full hour, starting at 85% before draining. Knocking the scenario settings down to Discrete mode and Balanced (with 50% brightness) allowed it to last another 10 minutes from the same battery percentage.

If you ask me, I wouldn't even bother gaming without the power adapter because, as expected, performance is significantly worse. Bear in mind, there's a 400W power adapter ready to handle the combined 260W of power from the RTX 5080 and the Ryzen 9 9955HX.

On the other hand, while web surfing in Balanced mode and Integrated Graphics, results were a little bit more impressive; at 59% battery, it took exactly 51 minutes to fall to 6%. When at 100%, it lasted 3 hours and 25 minutes during YouTube playback, so it's decent enough for those who want to use this laptop for work or multitasking.

However, the biggest downside is the charging time, as it takes a total of 2 hours to fully charge. It's already not great that the battery drains within 3 hours outside of gaming, but the addition of a long charge time isn't beneficial if you're looking to use it while on the go.

Portability isn't a strong suit, and these battery results are one of the main reasons why, especially when paired with the hefty design.

  • Battery: 3 / 5

Should you buy the MSI Vector A18 HX A9W?

Buy it if...

You're looking for one of the best gaming laptops

The MSI Vector A18 HX A9W is one of the best gaming laptops you can find on the market, providing fantastic performance results in games with Nvidia's powerful Blackwell RTX 5080 GPU and AMD's desktop-rivalling Ryzen 9955HX processor.

You want an immersive high refresh rate display

It's great for games like Call of Duty: Black Ops 6 or Counter-Strike 2, which rely on fast refresh rates, with access to 240Hz here. The laptop GPU is capable of achieving high frame rates with the right graphics settings.

You plan on moving around your home with a powerful gaming machine

The Vector A18 HX A9W is great for those who wish to move around their home using different displays in different rooms, without a big desktop PC case taking up space.

Don't buy if...

You need a laptop with long battery life

While the Vector A18 HX A9W's battery life isn't bad, it's also not the best either, as you might find with most gaming laptops, and you shouldn't consider this if that is a dealbreaker.

You want to game or work on the go

Coinciding with its average battery life, you won't get great performance without using its 400W power adapter, which is required to utilize the RTX 5080 and Ryzen 9955HX's combined 260W of power.

It's also very heavy and won't fit in most backpacks due to the display's 18-inch size.

You want an affordable gaming laptop

Affordability and the MSI Vector A18 HX A9W are completely distant, as all configurations have an eye-watering cost using either the RTX 5070 Ti or the RTX 5080.

How I tested the MSI Vector A18 HX A9W

I tested the MSI Vector A18 HX A9W for three weeks, running multiple games and synthetic benchmarks. It kept me away from my main desktop gaming PC for a while, with Multi Frame Generation being a significant reason in why, and while I don't want game developers to become over-reliant on Nvidia's DLSS tech, it's great when implemented properly.

Navigation and web browsing was a breeze too, with 32GB of RAM and a powerhouse CPU giving me all I needed to acknowledge that this was a gaming laptop that enthusiasts won't want to miss out on.

The RIG 900 Max HS is easily my new favorite PS5 gaming headset thanks to its impeccable audio quality and comfort factor
4:00 pm | May 25, 2025
Author: admin | Category: Computers Gadgets Gaming | Tags: , , | Comments: Off

Nacon RIG 900 Max HS: one-minute review

If you’re looking to buy a brand new PS5 or PC compatible gaming headset, then the Nacon RIG 900 Max HS will likely be a notable upgrade over your current peripheral. You’d probably expect that given its premium price tag, but the 900 Max HS still manages to go above and beyond.

Going through the checklist, I found that the RIG 900 Max HS ticks almost every box. It’s remarkably durable, and those plush ear cups are tailor-made for gaming the hours away in comfort - never did the headset begin to chafe the sides of my head or become uncomfortably warm, even during 5-6 hour gaming sessions.

And that’s great, because the RIG 900 Max HS is an incredibly difficult headset to take off. Not in a weird ‘cursed helmet’ kind of way - rather, its audio quality is so pristine that I couldn’t imagine playing immersive single-player games like The Elder Scrolls 4: Oblivion Remastered or Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 without it.

You can expect impressively detailed audio here that accurately picks up on a wide range of sounds - loud, quiet, and everything in between. Its bass profile is also highly satisfying, which can be further enhanced by accessing the equalizer in the wonderfully easy-to-use companion app. Multiplayer gamers are well-served here, too, with an impeccable flip-to-mute mic that - according to my friends and colleagues - sounded much clearer over calls than even some of the best PS5 headsets I’ve used.

If I had to levy any complaints, one would be that the build - like other Nacon products - still relies somewhat on cheap-feeling plastic. The durable metal headband is a notable improvement here, but the sides of the band as well as the cup exteriors are a little hollow. Turning the headset on and off, as well as pairing, also isn’t as immediate as I’m used to with other headsets.

But otherwise, the RIG 900 Max HS is an excellent premium gaming headset that’s well worth the price of admission.

Nacon RIG 900 Max HS

(Image credit: Future)

Nacon RIG 900 Max HS review: price and availability

The Nacon RIG 900 Max HS is available now and should retail at $249 / £215, but at the time of writing, stock appears to be quite limited in the US and the UK.

It is widely available in Europe, however, and is listed on Nacon’s website for €249.90.

I will return to update this section as and when US and UK availability becomes more widespread.

Nacon RIG 900 Max HS review: Specs

Price

$249.99 / £215 (tentative while availability is limited)

Weight

10.37oz / 294g

Dimensions

7.6 x 8.0 x 3.7in / 194 x 204 x 94mm

Compatibility

PS5, PS4, PC

Connection type

Wireless (2.4Ghz, Bluetooth), Wired (USB-C)

Battery life

20-30 hours

Nacon RIG 900 Max HS

(Image credit: Future)

Nacon RIG 900 Max HS review: design and features

Nacon hasn’t done much to bolster the overall build quality of its headset line-up here, but one crucial change does make a big difference. The 900 Max HS features a durable, metallic headband that not only looks nice, but its flexibility makes for a more durable build overall.

This headset line-up has also always featured unbelievably comfy plush ear cups, and that’s the case here, too. These allow the 900 Max HS to sit on your head snugly, remaining comfy and unintrusive for longer gaming sessions. There are no issues with the headset feeling overly warm, nor did it ever start to chafe my ears even during longer stints.

Onboard buttons here are also very simple and straightforward. You naturally have the power button, as well as a USB-C slot for charging purposes (though this can also be done with the included charging dock). A multi-function button lets you quickly pause or unpause videos and music. It also lets you accept calls if also connected to Bluetooth via the supported dual input mode (that’s Bluetooth and 2.4GHz at the same time). Handy.

Lastly is the Mode button, which lets you cycle through different pairing options including a ‘do not disturb’ Game Mode (available through 2.4GHz only), Dual and Bluetooth modes.

On the left of the headset is the flip-to-mute microphone. This unfortunately cannot be removed and feels built from rather cheap plastic, but - as I’ll get into later - it’s nonetheless an excellent mic that’ll serve you well on multiplayer comms.

Nacon RIG 900 Max HS

(Image credit: Future)

Nacon RIG 900 Max HS review: Performance

Performance is really where the RIG 900 Max HS shines. As far as gaming headsets go, it has some of the cleanest, most robust audio around. The headset deploys powerful 40mm drivers to produce a rich soundstage, capable of covering an impressively wide range. In Monster Hunter Wilds, for example, I could make out streams of rushing water in the distance even while a vicious Rathalos was trying to make me its next lunch.

There is a dedicated bass boost mode, too, and it’s as strong here as it was on the RIG 600 Pro HS - if not moreso. Once I activated bass boost, I simply couldn’t play without it in single-player games. The added oomph to the explosive soundscapes of the Resident Evil 4 remake and Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 only helped make those play experiences to be even more enjoyable.

But as mentioned earlier, multiplayer games aren’t being left out. That’s because the 900 Max HS’s flip-to-mute microphone is incredible. Whether it was gaming online with friends on Discord, or talking during a work meeting, my voice came through crystal clear. My colleagues noted it was a step up from my other go-to headset; the JBL Quantum 910P.

Nacon RIG 900 Max HS

(Image credit: Future)

You can also expect a glorious multiplayer gaming experience thanks to accurate directional audio. That’s a real boon for when you need to call out distant shots or vehicle sounds to teammates in shooters like Call of Duty: Warzone or Fortnite.

Battery life is an improvement over previous RIG models, though I must say I didn’t get Nacon’s quoted 50-60 hours on a single charge here. On a full charge, I managed around 20-30 hours before needing to top up again. That’s still not bad at all, and in fairness I was regularly switching pairing modes across both PS5 and PC, so your mileage may vary here depending on your use case.

I also have to mention the excellent software that is the RIG 900 Max HS companion app. While it does take a few seconds to connect to the app via Dual or Bluetooth modes, the app itself is simple to use yet still quite powerful.

The app lets you create up to three individual sound profiles. There are equalizer presets like the aforementioned bass boost, as well as ones tailored to first-person shooters and overall voice clarity. You can also activate an ‘Expert’ mode here, giving you access to a more robust equalizer with 10 sliders.

You can also adjust mic gain, monitoring, and a volume level protection option that prevents the headset’s audio from becoming overly loud.

Nacon RIG 900 Max HS

(Image credit: Future)

Should I buy the Nacon RIG 900 Max HS?

Buy it if...

You want immersive, customizable audio
Audio quality is fantastic out of the box, but you can really fine-tune equalizer settings that suit you best via the excellent companion app. Its expert mode also lets you tinker to an even more granular degree.

You’re an endurance gamer
You probably want a comfortable headset for your hours-long gaming sessions and the RIG 900 Max HS absolutely delivers here. The plush ear cups are perfectly suited to lazy weekends or burning the midnight oil with pals online.

Don't buy it if...

You’re on a budget
This is another very expensive premium product from Nacon’s RIG department. I think it’s worth the money if you can afford it, but if all you need is a simple way to chat with friends online or if you prefer gaming without a headset, you’ll be saving yourself a lot of cash.

You’re an Xbox player
Put simply, the RIG 900 Max HS is not compatible with Xbox Series X, Xbox Series S or Xbox One consoles. For that, there is a separate HX model available which you may want to check out instead.

Nacon RIG 900 Max HS review: Also consider

If the RIG 900 Max HS isn’t quite up your alley or out of your price range, you may wish to consider these excellent RIG brand alternatives.

RIG 900 Max HS

RIG 600 Pro HS

RIG 800 Pro HX

Price

$249 / £215

$99 / £89.99

$149 / £199

Weight

10.37oz / 294g

8.47oz / 240g

10.7oz / 308g

Dimensions

7.6 x 8.0 x 3.7in / 194 x 204 x 94mm

7.5 x 7.9 x 3.5in / 191 x 200 x 89mm

7.7 x 7.8 x 3.7in / 196 x 198 x 94mm

Compatibility

PS5, PS4, PC

PS5, PS4, PC

Xbox, PC

Connection type

Wireless (2.4GHz, Bluetooth), Wired (USB-C)

Wireless (2.4GHz, Bluetooth), Wired (USB-C)

Wireless (2.4GHz, Bluetooth)

Battery life

20-30 hours

Around 18 hours

18-24 hours

RIG 600 Pro HS
A real mid-range wonder, the RIG 600 Pro HS is my recommendation for those after a PS5 or PC gaming headset without breaking the bank. I prefer this to the official PS5 Pulse 3D gaming headset, and you can expect similar high quality audio and comfort factor here.

Read our full RIG 600 Pro HS review

RIG 800 Pro HX
Essentially an Xbox-compatible version of the above, the RIG 800 Pro HX is slightly older and thus falters relatively in terms of overall build quality. But still, you can expect excellent gaming audio, an awesome mic and comfortable ear cups.

Read our full RIG 800 Pro HX review

How I tested the Nacon RIG 900 Max HS

  • Tested for one week
  • Tested across PS5 and PC
  • Played single and multiplayer games, as well as general music listening

I tested the Nacon RIG 900 Max HS over the course of roughly a week, during which time it’s been my go-to audio device for both PS5 and PC. In my spare time, I typically don’t wear gaming headsets while playing, but I honestly haven’t been able to play without the RIG 900 Max HS whenever I’ve got a free hour or two. It may have converted me.

I played a whole bunch of single and multiplayer games with the headset on. These include recent releases like Clair Obscur: Expedition 33, Monster Hunter Wilds, Blue Prince and The Elder Scrolls 4: Oblivion Remastered. I selected these games because they all have diverse and unique soundscapes that really came alive when passed through this gaming headset.

For multiplayer, I hopped online with friends for Final Fantasy 14 Online, Fortnite, and a few rounds of Tekken 8 and Street Fighter 6. This was largely to test out the headset’s immaculate microphone, as well as get a feel for how well it handles directional audio.

First reviewed April 2025

Read more about how we test

The RIG 900 Max HS is easily my new favorite PS5 gaming headset thanks to its impeccable audio quality and comfort factor
4:00 pm |
Author: admin | Category: Computers Gadgets Gaming | Tags: , , | Comments: Off

Nacon RIG 900 Max HS: one-minute review

If you’re looking to buy a brand new PS5 or PC compatible gaming headset, then the Nacon RIG 900 Max HS will likely be a notable upgrade over your current peripheral. You’d probably expect that given its premium price tag, but the 900 Max HS still manages to go above and beyond.

Going through the checklist, I found that the RIG 900 Max HS ticks almost every box. It’s remarkably durable, and those plush ear cups are tailor-made for gaming the hours away in comfort - never did the headset begin to chafe the sides of my head or become uncomfortably warm, even during 5-6 hour gaming sessions.

And that’s great, because the RIG 900 Max HS is an incredibly difficult headset to take off. Not in a weird ‘cursed helmet’ kind of way - rather, its audio quality is so pristine that I couldn’t imagine playing immersive single-player games like The Elder Scrolls 4: Oblivion Remastered or Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 without it.

You can expect impressively detailed audio here that accurately picks up on a wide range of sounds - loud, quiet, and everything in between. Its bass profile is also highly satisfying, which can be further enhanced by accessing the equalizer in the wonderfully easy-to-use companion app. Multiplayer gamers are well-served here, too, with an impeccable flip-to-mute mic that - according to my friends and colleagues - sounded much clearer over calls than even some of the best PS5 headsets I’ve used.

If I had to levy any complaints, one would be that the build - like other Nacon products - still relies somewhat on cheap-feeling plastic. The durable metal headband is a notable improvement here, but the sides of the band as well as the cup exteriors are a little hollow. Turning the headset on and off, as well as pairing, also isn’t as immediate as I’m used to with other headsets.

But otherwise, the RIG 900 Max HS is an excellent premium gaming headset that’s well worth the price of admission.

Nacon RIG 900 Max HS

(Image credit: Future)

Nacon RIG 900 Max HS review: price and availability

The Nacon RIG 900 Max HS is available now and should retail at $249 / £215, but at the time of writing, stock appears to be quite limited in the US and the UK.

It is widely available in Europe, however, and is listed on Nacon’s website for €249.90.

I will return to update this section as and when US and UK availability becomes more widespread.

Nacon RIG 900 Max HS review: Specs

Price

$249.99 / £215 (tentative while availability is limited)

Weight

10.37oz / 294g

Dimensions

7.6 x 8.0 x 3.7in / 194 x 204 x 94mm

Compatibility

PS5, PS4, PC

Connection type

Wireless (2.4Ghz, Bluetooth), Wired (USB-C)

Battery life

20-30 hours

Nacon RIG 900 Max HS

(Image credit: Future)

Nacon RIG 900 Max HS review: design and features

Nacon hasn’t done much to bolster the overall build quality of its headset line-up here, but one crucial change does make a big difference. The 900 Max HS features a durable, metallic headband that not only looks nice, but its flexibility makes for a more durable build overall.

This headset line-up has also always featured unbelievably comfy plush ear cups, and that’s the case here, too. These allow the 900 Max HS to sit on your head snugly, remaining comfy and unintrusive for longer gaming sessions. There are no issues with the headset feeling overly warm, nor did it ever start to chafe my ears even during longer stints.

Onboard buttons here are also very simple and straightforward. You naturally have the power button, as well as a USB-C slot for charging purposes (though this can also be done with the included charging dock). A multi-function button lets you quickly pause or unpause videos and music. It also lets you accept calls if also connected to Bluetooth via the supported dual input mode (that’s Bluetooth and 2.4GHz at the same time). Handy.

Lastly is the Mode button, which lets you cycle through different pairing options including a ‘do not disturb’ Game Mode (available through 2.4GHz only), Dual and Bluetooth modes.

On the left of the headset is the flip-to-mute microphone. This unfortunately cannot be removed and feels built from rather cheap plastic, but - as I’ll get into later - it’s nonetheless an excellent mic that’ll serve you well on multiplayer comms.

Nacon RIG 900 Max HS

(Image credit: Future)

Nacon RIG 900 Max HS review: Performance

Performance is really where the RIG 900 Max HS shines. As far as gaming headsets go, it has some of the cleanest, most robust audio around. The headset deploys powerful 40mm drivers to produce a rich soundstage, capable of covering an impressively wide range. In Monster Hunter Wilds, for example, I could make out streams of rushing water in the distance even while a vicious Rathalos was trying to make me its next lunch.

There is a dedicated bass boost mode, too, and it’s as strong here as it was on the RIG 600 Pro HS - if not moreso. Once I activated bass boost, I simply couldn’t play without it in single-player games. The added oomph to the explosive soundscapes of the Resident Evil 4 remake and Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 only helped make those play experiences to be even more enjoyable.

But as mentioned earlier, multiplayer games aren’t being left out. That’s because the 900 Max HS’s flip-to-mute microphone is incredible. Whether it was gaming online with friends on Discord, or talking during a work meeting, my voice came through crystal clear. My colleagues noted it was a step up from my other go-to headset; the JBL Quantum 910P.

Nacon RIG 900 Max HS

(Image credit: Future)

You can also expect a glorious multiplayer gaming experience thanks to accurate directional audio. That’s a real boon for when you need to call out distant shots or vehicle sounds to teammates in shooters like Call of Duty: Warzone or Fortnite.

Battery life is an improvement over previous RIG models, though I must say I didn’t get Nacon’s quoted 50-60 hours on a single charge here. On a full charge, I managed around 20-30 hours before needing to top up again. That’s still not bad at all, and in fairness I was regularly switching pairing modes across both PS5 and PC, so your mileage may vary here depending on your use case.

I also have to mention the excellent software that is the RIG 900 Max HS companion app. While it does take a few seconds to connect to the app via Dual or Bluetooth modes, the app itself is simple to use yet still quite powerful.

The app lets you create up to three individual sound profiles. There are equalizer presets like the aforementioned bass boost, as well as ones tailored to first-person shooters and overall voice clarity. You can also activate an ‘Expert’ mode here, giving you access to a more robust equalizer with 10 sliders.

You can also adjust mic gain, monitoring, and a volume level protection option that prevents the headset’s audio from becoming overly loud.

Nacon RIG 900 Max HS

(Image credit: Future)

Should I buy the Nacon RIG 900 Max HS?

Buy it if...

You want immersive, customizable audio
Audio quality is fantastic out of the box, but you can really fine-tune equalizer settings that suit you best via the excellent companion app. Its expert mode also lets you tinker to an even more granular degree.

You’re an endurance gamer
You probably want a comfortable headset for your hours-long gaming sessions and the RIG 900 Max HS absolutely delivers here. The plush ear cups are perfectly suited to lazy weekends or burning the midnight oil with pals online.

Don't buy it if...

You’re on a budget
This is another very expensive premium product from Nacon’s RIG department. I think it’s worth the money if you can afford it, but if all you need is a simple way to chat with friends online or if you prefer gaming without a headset, you’ll be saving yourself a lot of cash.

You’re an Xbox player
Put simply, the RIG 900 Max HS is not compatible with Xbox Series X, Xbox Series S or Xbox One consoles. For that, there is a separate HX model available which you may want to check out instead.

Nacon RIG 900 Max HS review: Also consider

If the RIG 900 Max HS isn’t quite up your alley or out of your price range, you may wish to consider these excellent RIG brand alternatives.

RIG 900 Max HS

RIG 600 Pro HS

RIG 800 Pro HX

Price

$249 / £215

$99 / £89.99

$149 / £199

Weight

10.37oz / 294g

8.47oz / 240g

10.7oz / 308g

Dimensions

7.6 x 8.0 x 3.7in / 194 x 204 x 94mm

7.5 x 7.9 x 3.5in / 191 x 200 x 89mm

7.7 x 7.8 x 3.7in / 196 x 198 x 94mm

Compatibility

PS5, PS4, PC

PS5, PS4, PC

Xbox, PC

Connection type

Wireless (2.4GHz, Bluetooth), Wired (USB-C)

Wireless (2.4GHz, Bluetooth), Wired (USB-C)

Wireless (2.4GHz, Bluetooth)

Battery life

20-30 hours

Around 18 hours

18-24 hours

RIG 600 Pro HS
A real mid-range wonder, the RIG 600 Pro HS is my recommendation for those after a PS5 or PC gaming headset without breaking the bank. I prefer this to the official PS5 Pulse 3D gaming headset, and you can expect similar high quality audio and comfort factor here.

Read our full RIG 600 Pro HS review

RIG 800 Pro HX
Essentially an Xbox-compatible version of the above, the RIG 800 Pro HX is slightly older and thus falters relatively in terms of overall build quality. But still, you can expect excellent gaming audio, an awesome mic and comfortable ear cups.

Read our full RIG 800 Pro HX review

How I tested the Nacon RIG 900 Max HS

  • Tested for one week
  • Tested across PS5 and PC
  • Played single and multiplayer games, as well as general music listening

I tested the Nacon RIG 900 Max HS over the course of roughly a week, during which time it’s been my go-to audio device for both PS5 and PC. In my spare time, I typically don’t wear gaming headsets while playing, but I honestly haven’t been able to play without the RIG 900 Max HS whenever I’ve got a free hour or two. It may have converted me.

I played a whole bunch of single and multiplayer games with the headset on. These include recent releases like Clair Obscur: Expedition 33, Monster Hunter Wilds, Blue Prince and The Elder Scrolls 4: Oblivion Remastered. I selected these games because they all have diverse and unique soundscapes that really came alive when passed through this gaming headset.

For multiplayer, I hopped online with friends for Final Fantasy 14 Online, Fortnite, and a few rounds of Tekken 8 and Street Fighter 6. This was largely to test out the headset’s immaculate microphone, as well as get a feel for how well it handles directional audio.

First reviewed April 2025

Read more about how we test

I’ve spent weeks with the Sennheiser HD 550 headphones, and I might not be able to go back to a gaming headset anymore
5:51 pm | May 23, 2025
Author: admin | Category: Computers Gadgets Gaming | Tags: , | Comments: Off

Sennheiser HD 550 review: One-minute review

The Sennheiser HD 550 headphones are some of the finest audiophile headphones for gaming I’ve ever tested. This open-back model excels in its audio prowess, comfort, and simplicity in every manner of my testing, and I wholeheartedly recommend them to anyone looking for a top gaming headset for console or PC.

While cut from the same cloth as other Sennheiser headphones aimed at those who value audio quality above all else, the HD 550 headphones are very much intended to appeal to gamers who crave high-quality audio. They absolutely succeed in this: across PlayStation 5, Xbox, and PC, audio is a dream.

Combine this with the expected excellence Sennheiser has for enhancing music, entertainment, and easy listening, and it really is a winner. It also means the HD 550 is ideal for work and everyday use, too.

Price is perhaps one wrinkle on the score sheet, as it’s a little on the high side when you compare it to the immediate competition.

For example, you could bag a complete premium wired gaming headset like the SteelSeries Arctis Nova Pro if you want more features and a built-in mic. You could even save money compared to the HD 550 while sticking with Sennheiser with slightly cheaper models like the HD 560S or 650 sets. Still, I think anyone buying them at their list price won’t feel any buyer’s remorse, such is the quality here.

The Sennheiser HD 550 headphones on a wooden surface in front of a white brick background

(Image credit: Future/Rob Dwiar)

That begins with a simple and elegant design, but one that’s also robust and very comfortable. The open-back cup covers are made of high-grade metal mesh, while the strong plastic frame elsewhere inspires confidence. The synthetic leather of the headband and velour of the earcups are wonderfully soft, providing the right amount of cushioning and support.

Coming in at just 8.35oz / 237g, the HD 550 are incredibly light. You’ll barely notice that you’re wearing them, even after long sessions. There’s simplicity onboard too with only a 6ft / 1.8m cable attached (a 3.5mm to 6.5mm adapter is also provided).

All this comes together to provide an audio experience that I’ve not experienced for a long time - if ever. The HD 550 excels in all that you throw at it, and really can be the audiophile gaming-focused headphones you’ve been looking for. I’ve heard details in games I’ve not heard before, and enjoyed rich, atmospheric, multi-layered audio in game worlds. Combine this with Sennheiser’s established excellence for music, easy listening, and everyday use, and the HD 550 offers it all.

Brilliant for everything, and perfect for immersion-heightening single-player gaming, the HD 550 might be the last multiplatform gaming headset you ever need to buy - even if it’s not a traditional gaming headset.

Sennheiser HD 550 review: Price and availability

  • List price: $299.99 / $249.99 / AU$479
  • Premium gaming headset territory
  • Faces stiff competition from its Sennheiser brethren

At $299.99 / $249.99 / AU$479, the Sennheiser HD 550 headphones are pricey, but not wildly so. At this point, it’s pitched squarely against some great audiophile headphones and gaming headsets.

In terms of the latter, I see something like the SteelSeries Arctis Nova Pro or the Beyerdynamic MMX 300 Pro or 330 Pro headsets as comparable alternatives. These are different propositions in terms of feature set, target audience, and what they're built to do, of course, but if you’re looking for something in this price range that’s focused on gaming, then this is the sort of competition the HD 550 has.

On the other hand, the HD 550 does face a lot of competition its own Sennheiser brethren. For example, the HD 560S is a tremendous set of headphones that can still very much hold their own in the gaming sphere. In the US, these are around $20 cheaper than the HD 550, but in the UK, they are a staggering £99, which is extraordinarily good value and hard to ignore if saving cash is one of your top priorities.

Overall, the value the HD 550 offers is still superb. However, when price cuts inevitably come, the HD 550 are going to be very hard to beat and extremely attractive as a pair of top audiophile headphones for gaming.

The Sennheiser HD 550 headphones on a wooden surface in front of a white brick background

(Image credit: Future/Rob Dwiar)

Sennheiser HD 550 review: Specs

Sennheiser HD 550

Price

$299.99 / $249.99 / AU$479

Weight

8.35oz / 237g

Drivers

38mm

Compatibility

PS5, PS4, Xbox Series X|S, Xbox One, Nintendo Switch, PC, mobile (where audio jack is present)

Connection type

3.5mm audio jack; 6ft / 1.8m cable (3.5 to 6.5mm adapter provided)

Battery life

N/A

Features

38mm transducer, 150 Ω nominal impedance, 6Hz – 39.5kHz frequency response, synthetic velour ear pads

Software

N/A

The Sennheiser HD 550 headphones on a wooden surface in front of a white brick background

(Image credit: Future/Rob Dwiar)

Sennheiser HD 550 review: Design and features

  • Open back design
  • Lightweight and wonderfully comfortable
  • No onboard controls or mic

The design of the Sennheiser HD 550 headphones is incredibly stripped back and sleek - there’s no overcomplication here, and if you’re familiar with Sennheiser’s style, then it’ll look satisfyingly recognizable.

It’s a symphony in black with metallic accents offered by the Sennheiser logo on the cups, and metallic edging adjacent to the ear cups punctuating that sleek look. The headband is made of faux leather and has a good amount of padding across almost its entire length to ensure head comfort, while the plush synthetic velour earbuds are delightfully soft and comfy around the ears, with the headphone’s clamping force being just right.

The ratchet on the headband for finding the right fit is also perfect, offering a good amount of resistance and hold, and you’ll also get a neat drawstring bag for the headset, too.

Under the hood, you have the 38mm, 150-ohm transducer (driver) offering a dynamic range of 6Hz to 39.5kHz. The driver is, of course, Sennheiser’s own, made in Ireland, and I’m told by the brand in terms of construction that “the diaphragm is made of a laminate plastic foil material. The voice coil is made of copper, and the chassis is made of plastic.”

Feature-wise, the HD 550 are equally simple and stripped back: there are no onboard controls here like you’ll find on gaming headsets, and there’s no microphone present either. All you have is the 6ft / 1.8m (non-braided, non-detachable) cable that ends in a slightly chunky 3.5mm audio jack connection, and that can also be fitted with a screw-on 6.5mm adapter.

The Sennheiser HD 550 headphones on a wooden surface in front of a white brick background

(Image credit: Future/Rob Dwiar)

Sennheiser HD 550 review: Performance

  • Superb Sennheiser quality audio for games
  • Exceptional for music and entertainment
  • Perfect for immersive single-player gaming

In short, the Sennheiser HD 550, as a set of gaming and entertainment-focused headphones, are nothing short of spectacular. The headphones may well have killed off using a gaming headset for single-player games for me, and I have nothing but praise for the gaming audio it’s given me throughout my testing.

On PS5, the booming soundtracks and sound effects of Doom and Doom Eternal have never been given to me so fulsomely and richly, with each heavy metal riff and combat finisher move sounding as raw and dense as they should. In Indiana Jones and the Great Circle and Clair Obscur: Expedition 33, character dialogue was crisp and clear without ever being scratchy, and environmental noises were a joy.

Even the busiest of combat encounters in both translated well through the HD 550 headphones. The same was true for Halo: The Master Chief Collection and Botany Manor on Xbox, but also the delicate and detailed audio in games like Frostpunk 2 on PC, and Control, with its atmospheric and spooky audio that emanates from the FBC building and its tenants.

The Sennheiser HD 550 headphones on a wooden surface in front of a white brick background

(Image credit: Future/Rob Dwiar)

The audio jack connection made it the easiest headphone set to use across all the platforms, too, which is a dream. Of course, you’ll be relying on your devices or an amp to really push the headphones as there’s no onboard volume dial, but simply managing them in such a way has provided me with some real excellence and memorable audio moments in games.

Using the HD 550 for work meetings and video calls is great too, though you’ll naturally have to team it with a standalone, separate mic. I did that with my SteelSeries Alias Pro, and the combination worked like a dream. There’s a warmth to ‘real life’ voices from the HD 550, and there were never ever any piercing peaks or rough troughs.

When I wasn’t in meetings, I kept the HD 550 on to soak up music, and I was treated to a truly fantastic experience here. Playing tunes from my usual playlists on Spotify, but also using hi-res audio on Tidal, and even down to browsing tracks and videos on YouTube, the HD 550 kept providing me with some of the finest audio I’ve experienced.

The excellent bass response is brilliant and almost gave me a new appreciation for Tool’s back catalog, and the mids and highs dealt beautifully with modern country and punk pop music, and even classical music such as Allegri’s Miserere and Jan Garbarek’s Officium record.

Taking all this sheer audio excellence and putting it in a sleek, comfortable, and lightweight headset like the HD 550 means Sennheiser has a real winner on its hands that is fantastic to wear and use at all times, and for a long time.

The Sennheiser HD 550 headphones on a wooden surface in front of a white brick background

(Image credit: Future/Rob Dwiar)

Should you buy the Sennheiser HD 550?

Buy it if...

You want that sweet, sweet Sennheiser audio quality for games and everything else
The star of the show with the HD 550 is, unsurprisingly, the awesome Sennheiser audio. It’s so good that it’s easy to recommend the headphones for that reason alone.

You want a lightweight and supremely comfortable set of headphones for gaming
If you’re sick and tired of gaming headsets overcomplicating things, offering too much, or being focused on features rather than audio in your view, then the Sennheiser HD 550 will offer a simple yet fantastic and premium gaming audio solution.

You mainly play single-player games and are looking for immersive audio
Focusing on offering an audio-only experience, and not being a gaming headset with a mic, the HD 550 is absolutely perfect for those who almost solely play single-player games - or for those looking to add a dedicated single-player game device to their setup.

You want your next gaming headset or headphones to be multi-platform
It doesn’t get much more multiplatform than a simple audio jack connection, and if you’re looking for something that can be a one-and-done solution for all your gaming devices, as well as audiophile and easy listening needs, then the HD 550 has you more than covered.

Don't buy it if...

You really want a microphone for the price of admission
It’s an easy one to point out, but if you’re dropping more than $200 / £200 on some headphones and really want a mic too, then the HD 550 headphones won’t be for you.

You want Sennheiser audio, but the most bang-for-buck value
If I’m being ruthless, the HD 550’s price tag could be a bit of a hurdle, and at list price, you may find better value in other Sennheiser audiophile sets like the HD 560S or HD 650.

Sennheiser HD 550 review: Also consider

Still not sold on the Sennheiser HD 550? Here are two competing headsets for comparison.

Sennheiser HD 550

SteelSeries Arctis Nova Pro

Sennheiser HD 560S

Price

$299.99 / £249.99 / AU$479

$249.99 / £179.99 / AU$405

$229.95 / £169 / AU$339.95

Weight

8.35oz / 237g

16.08oz / 456g

8.46oz / 240g

Drivers

38mm

40mm

38mm

Compatibility

PS5, PS4, Xbox Series X|S, Xbox One, Nintendo Switch, PC, mobile (where audio jack is present)

PS5, PS4, Xbox Series X|S, Xbox One, Nintendo Switch, PC, mobile (where audio jack is present)

PS5, PS4, Xbox Series X|S, Xbox One, Nintendo Switch, PC, mobile (where audio jack is present)

Connection type

3.5mm audio jack; 6ft / 1.8m cable (3.5 to 6.5mm adapter provided)

USB, 3.5mm audio jack

3.5mm audio jack; 6ft / 1.8m detachable cable (3.5 to 6.3mm screw-on adapter provided)

Battery life

N/A

N/A

N/A

Features

38mm transducer, 150 Ω nominal impedance, 6Hz – 39.5kHz frequency response, synthetic velour ear pads

40 mm Neodymium drivers, Bidirectional microphone polar pattern, ClearCast Gen 2 microphone, GameDac Gen 2 control panel

38mm transducer, 120 Ω nominal impedance, 6Hz - 38kHz frequency response, velour ear pads

Software

N/A

SteelSeries GG

N/A

SteelSeries Arctis Nova Pro
A premium wired gaming headset, the Arctis Nova Pro is one of my favorite tethered sets and the sibling of my favorite gaming headset ever made. The wired Nova Pro sports glorious sound quality, a host of attractive features, and a top microphone, and comes in at the same price range as the HD 550, so it is a direct gaming headset competitor to consider.

For more information, check out our full SteelSeries Arctis Nova Pro reviewView Deal

Sennheiser HD 560S
Cut from the same exquisite Sennheiser cloth as the HD 550, the HD 560S might be a few years old now, but it’s an incredibly attractive option and offers exceptional value for money - particularly in the UK. Similarly priced to HD 550 in the US but often coming in cheaper, the HD 560S offers wonderful sound quality in a similarly simple, lightweight, and comfortable design. You could even consider the Sennheiser HD 650, too.

For more information, check out our full Sennheiser HD 560S reviewView Deal

The Sennheiser HD 550 headphones on a wooden surface in front of a white brick background

(Image credit: Future/Rob Dwiar)

How I tested the Sennheiser HD 550

  • Tested over the course of several months
  • Used in conjunction with PS5, PS5 Pro, Xbox Series X, and PC
  • Compared directly to the premium gaming headset competition

I have used the Sennheiser HD 550 headphones as part of my work and gaming setup for a few months now, integrating them into my setup and using them alongside a host of other gear to test them out.

On my two PlayStation 5 setups, I plugged the headphones into a standard DualSense Wireless controller to test them with my PS5 Pro and PS5 Slim. I used them on both consoles for hours at a time, and also plugged them directly into my PlayStation Portal, too.

On PS5, I played Doom 2016 and Doom Eternal, almost my full playthrough of Clair Obscur: Expedition 33, and all of my Indiana Jones and The Great Circle playthrough. I also gave the headphones a test on Xbox Series X, plugging them into a Victrix Pro BFG for Xbox controller or a Thrustmaster eSwap X2 controller to play games like Botany Manor and Halo: The Master Chief Collection.

When testing on my RTX 3090 gaming PC, I plugged the HD 550 directly into the machine to play Frostpunk 2, Control, and Warhammer 40,000: Dawn of War III, and then also teamed the HD 550 with a SteelSeries Alias Pro mic for work and video calls.

Putting the HD 550 set to test with music and entertainment, I used them as I normally would with the likes of Spotify and YouTube, but also hi-res audio providers like Tidal to really hone in on the audio offerings.

During my testing, I was able to compare the HD550 directly to the SteelSeries Arctis Nova Pro wired headset, the wireless variant, an Arctis Nova 7, and an Audeze Maxwell.

Read more about how we test

First reviewed March - May 2025

I tested the SteelSeries Apex Pro Mini Gen 3 and think it’s one of the best analog keyboards around – but it’d make a serious dent in my wallet
10:00 pm | May 12, 2025
Author: admin | Category: Computers Computing Gadgets Keyboards Peripherals & Accessories | Tags: | Comments: Off

SteelSeries Apex Pro Mini Gen 3: one-minute review

The SteelSeries Apex Pro Mini Gen 3 is a compact analog keyboard that promises incredibly responsive performance courtesy of its analog switches. Its looks don’t exactly reflect its gaming prowess, but it’s smart and sleek enough to adorn any setup. The black colorway is a little austere, but this is alleviated somewhat by the vibrant RGB backlighting.

Once you get your hands on it, though, you start to realize this is a premium slice of engineering. It’s reasonably light considering how solid it feels, and the double-shot PBT keycaps have a more textured finish than usual, which feels great under the fingertips. Even the included detachable USB cable is made to a high standard.

As you would expect from any of the best gaming keyboards, numerous customization options are available via the SteelSeries GG software – or more specifically, the Engine section within this app. It hurts usability somewhat that Engine opens in a separate window to GG, but this is a minor gripe.

Alongside the typical RGB tweaks and macro creation features, there are a healthy selection of rebinding options, with plenty of media and system shortcuts available, with various adjustable parameters for binding behavior.

Naturally there are various alterations for actuation, with points settable between 0.1mm and 4mm, which is a generous range of travel. You can also toggle rapid trigger and protection modes, while various SOCD settings (called rapid tap here) and dual binding features are available in addition.

This makes Engine a versatile tool and one that’s easy to use, thanks to its clear layout and useful explanations. The visualizer for key actuation, though, doesn’t respond in real time, which is a drawback.

The Apex Pro Mini Gen 3 excels when it comes to performance. Presses are very tactile and rebound fast, imbuing it with a pleasingly snappy feel, which is great for both gaming and typing.

Hitting certain actuation points is easy too, thanks to the satisfying resistance to the keys which impart just enough feedback without disrupting its light touch.

It’s also comfortable to use, thanks to the indentations of the keycaps, which make it a very tactile board to use while still allowing for easy gliding. The bottom row is very accessible too, especially the space bar, with its low profile making for consistent hits with the tip of your thumb, rather than the edge.

What’s more, the tilt angle, especially when used with the very stable two-stage feet, gave me a comfortable position for typing as well as gaming – although for very long sessions, I would still benefit from using a wrist rest.

The Apex Pro Mini Gen 3 is certainly an expensive keyboard, especially when you consider its small 60% layout and lack of wireless connectivity. However, there’s no denying this is premium hardware, and it performs as well as you could hope an analog board would.

There are a few much cheaper alternatives out there that come quite close to rivaling its performance, but the Apex Pro Mini Gen 3 is hard to beat if you want the absolute best analog performance.

Close-up of switches underneath keys with RGB lighting on SteelSeries Apex Pro Mini on desk

(Image credit: Future)

SteelSeries Apex Pro Mini Gen 3 review: price and availability

  • $179.99 / £174.99 (about AU$282)
  • Available now in black only
  • Very expensive

The Apex Pro Mini Gen 3 costs $179.99 / £174.99 (about AU$282) and is available now in black only. It comes with a detachable USB-A-to-C cable and a keycap puller. It’s one of the more expensive analog keyboards around – especially when you consider its compact 60% layout and wired-only connectivity.

If you’re looking for a much cheaper alternative, the MonsGeek FUN60 Ultra is admirably close to the Apex Pro Mini Gen 3 in terms of performance, yet also features multiple wireless connectivity modes. What’s more, it uses TMR rather than the Hall effect sensors of the Apex Pro Mini Gen 3, which are considered more accurate, although in truth I couldn’t discern a difference. MonsGeek’s software provides a few more features than Engine, but it suffers from a few usability issues.

Another viable option for budget hunters is the Gamakay TK75HE V2. This is similarly cheap for an analog keyboard, but again comes close to rivaling the performance of more expensive models, including the Apex Pro Mini Gen 3. What’s more, it has a larger 75% layout, which might be more useful for those looking for some productivity prowess as well. However, like the FUN60 Ultra, its software isn’t the best from a usability perspective.

Value: 3 / 5

SteelSeries Apex Pro Mini Gen 3 review: specs

Layout

60%

Switch

Analog (Hall-effect magnetic)

Programmable keys

Yes

Dimensions

11.5 x 4 x 1.6 inches / 293 x 103 x 40mm

RGB or backlighting

Yes (customizable)

Close-up of number keys on SteelSeries Apex Pro Mini, with pink background

(Image credit: Future)

SteelSeries Apex Pro Mini Gen 3 review: design and features

  • Muted looks
  • Solid but light construction
  • Useful customization software

The Apex Pro Mini Gen 3 doesn’t push the boat out aesthetically. It adopts a rather functional design that’s inoffensive but still sleek enough to work in any environment. The RGB backlighting also helps to offset the somewhat gloomy black finish.

It’s very well made, and the build quality is certainly level with the best keyboards around. It’s quite light for a board that feels this solid and durable, and the double-shot PBT keycaps are an especial highlight, with more texture than others, but feel great under the fingertips. What’s more, their indentations were a perfect fit for my fingers, which improved their tactility and security when hammering away.

The tilt of the layout ensures a comfortable typing position, which is further aided by the two stage feet, which are incredibly stable and offer meaningful differences in angle. This made the Apex Pro Mini Gen 3 comfortable for me despite its lack of wrist support; although for longer sessions, I would still prefer to use a rest with the Apex Pro Mini Gen 3.

The Apex Pro Mini Gen 3 doesn't have an Fn key; instead, you get SteelSeries’ Meta key, which functions in much the same way. There are numerous useful shortcuts available, including those for adjusting actuation points, rapid trigger and other analog functions.

What’s more, these shortcuts are labelled on the keys themselves, which is very helpful, especially on a compact board such as this, lacking as it does arrow keys, a dedicated F row, and the like.

Underneath of SteelSeries Apex Pro Mini with hand holding keycap puller compartment flap, on desk with pink background

(Image credit: Future)

The Apex Pro Mini Gen 3 can be further customized using SteelSeries GG – or more specifically, the Engine app within GG. It’s a little inconvenient that the latter opens in a separate window to the former, but this is a small complaint.

You’ll find the usual customizations on offer in Engine, with a generous selection of rebinding options available, including plenty of media and system shortcuts. Five configuration slots are available, and there are even preset configurations for certain games, including one for Counter-Strike 2 created by esports brand FaZe Clan.

Being an analog board, there are plenty of actuation adjustments as well. The actuation point can be set between 0.1 and 4mm, and there’s a rapid trigger toggle with its own accompanying slider to adjust sensitivity within the same range.

A protection mode is also available, which reduces the sensitivity of adjacent keys to prevent mispresses. An SOCD feature called rapid tap is present as well, with different key priority behaviors to choose from when two are pressed simultaneously: you can choose which key always has priority, let whichever is pressed last take precedence, or make neither register. There’s also a dual binding mode, although it’s a little annoying that there’s a separate window for setting up dual actuation first, since both rely on each other.

Overall, however, Engine is laid out clearly and features useful explanations for its various features and settings. However, the visualizer for key actuation is severely lacking, as it doesn’t illustrate presses in real time, which I would’ve appreciated so I could see exactly how my tweaks manifest themselves in practice.

Design & features: 5 / 5

SteelSeries Apex Pro Mini Gen 3 review: performance

  • Excellent springy keys
  • Responsive and precise analog switches
  • Great for gaming and typing

The Apex Pro Mini Gen 3 is an excellent performer on pretty much every front. The keys are very light and springy, yet still offer enough dampening and weight lower down in their travel, which helps to provide feedback.

Actuation points are also easy to hit thanks to the tactile switches and relatively long key travel. The space bar is also a highlight thanks to its very satisfying response, and its low profile makes it very easy to hit flush with your thumb tip rather than the edge. In fact, the whole of the bottom row is easy to use, thanks to the slightly concave layout and keycap indentations.

When typing, these indentations are especially useful, offering plenty of security while still allowing for easy gliding around the board. Also, the amount of Meta shortcuts available to access functions reserved for larger layouts makes the Apex Pro Mini Gen 3 more viable for mild productivity purposes.

Close-up of USB-C cable connected to SteelSeries Apex Pro Mini, on desk with pink background

(Image credit: Future)

Performance: 5 / 5

Should I buy the SteelSeries Apex Pro Mini Gen 3?

Gamakay TK75HE V2 Scorecard

Attributes

Notes

Rating

Value

With a 60% layout and wired-only connectivity, the Apex Pro Mini Gen 3 demands a lot, and there are much cheaper rivals around.

3 / 5

Design and features

The Apex Pro Mini Gen 3 is built to an incredibly high standard, and the software for customizing its analog keys is mostly great.

5 / 5

Performance

The analog switches are springy and satisfying, making them great for gaming and typing. It’s hard to find fault here.

5 / 5

Overall

The Apex Pro Mini Gen 3 does most things right, thanks to its excellent analog switches and superb build quality. It might be eye-wateringly expensive, but there aren’t many that can outperform it.

4.5 / 5

Buy it if…

You want incredible build quality
The board itself and the accompanying software are both expertly engineered. It’s also surprisingly light for something so solid.

You want superlative analog performance
The analog switches are very snappy yet ultra precise, and the layout and feel make it great for gaming and typing.

Don’t buy it if…

You want to save money
The Apex Pro Mini Gen 3 is very expensive no matter how you slice it – especially when you consider its small layout and wired-only connectivity.

You want wireless connectivity
The Apex Pro Mini Gen 3 is wired-only, so those who want to go wireless or switch between multiple devices on the fly might want to look elsewhere.

SteelSeries Apex Pro Mini Gen 3 review: also consider

SteelSeries Apex Pro Mini Gen 3

MonsGeek FUN60 Ultra

Gamakay TK75HE V2

Layout

60%

60%

60%

Switch

Analog (Hall-effect magnetic)

Analog (TMR magnetic)

Analog (Hall-effect magnetic)

Programmable keys

Yes

Yes

Yes

Dimensions

11.5 x 4 x 1.6 inches / 293 x 103 x 40mm

Not stated

12.8 x 5.4 x 1.1 inches / 325 x 136 x 28mm

RGB or backlighting

Yes (customizable)

Yes (customizable)

Yes (customizable)

MonsGeek FUN60 Ultra
If you want analog switches at a fraction of the cost of the Apex Pro Mini Gen 3, then the FUN60 Ultra is an excellent choice. Its performance isn’t far behind that of the Apex Pro Mini Gen 3, although it’s not quite so satisfying. However, it offers multiple wireless connectivity modes, whereas the Apex Pro Mini Gen 3 is wired-only. Its software is versatile too, with a few more features than the Apex Pro Mini Gen 3 offers, although it’s not as easy to use. The clunky device switching is another drawback, too.

Gamakay TK75HE V2
The TK75HE V2 is very similar to the FUN60 Ultra in many respects, and although it’s perhaps not quite so satisfying to use, it still competes very admirably considering its relatively low price. However, it suffers from the same software issues as the FUN60 Ultra, so it isn’t quite as refined as Engine.

How I tested the SteelSeries Apex Pro Mini Gen 3

  • Tested for a few days
  • Used for gaming and productivity
  • Over a decade of PC gaming experience

I tested the Apex Pro Mini Gen 3 for a few days, during which time I used it for gaming and working, on both Windows 10 and Windows 11 systems.

I played Counter-Strike 2, a great game for testing peripherals, given it requires fast and precise inputs. It’s especially useful when playing with analog keyboards, since the need for controlled micro-movements provides the perfect testing ground for the rapid trigger functionality.

I’ve been PC gaming for over a decade, and during that time I have experienced a great deal of keyboards. I’ve also reviewed a number of them, including other analog and SteelSeries models.

I tested out the Maxtang SXRL-20 mini PC and with this sort of performance, it’s basically as niche as they come
9:47 am | May 11, 2025
Author: admin | Category: Computers Computing Gadgets | Tags: | Comments: Off

Maxtang SXRL-20: 30-second review

The Mini PC has undergone some transformation since Intel ended its NUC and left the field open for PC makers to define the market for these small machines.

While some brands are still making traditional NUC-inspired designs, Maxtang, with the SXRL-20, has taken its small computer concept in an entirely different direction.

Conceived explicitly for digital signage use, it can drive up to four displays and achieve this with a passively cooled solution for prolonged running. It’s all-metal construction and wall-mounting accessories deliver a robust and made-for-purpose solution that uses an Intel Core i5-class processor to run Windows 11.

This is the same silicon that has been used in NAS boxes. It provides sufficient CPU and GPU power to drive the displays and sufficient storage options to handle a lot of playback media.

With LAN, WIFi, and even LTE connectivity, this system can be easily and remotely accessed to update the content when required.

At a modest price, the only aspect that potential customers need to be aware of is that there isn’t much performance headroom in the SXRL-20 to repurpose it for other duties. This hardware was assembled for a specific job, and not to become a desktop PC if the requirements change. Because of that, this hardware is a little too niche to make it into our best mini PC round-up.

Maxtang SXRL-20

(Image credit: Mark Pickavance)

Maxtang SXRL-20: Price and availability

  • How much does it cost? From $429
  • When is it out? Available now
  • Where can you get it? Currently, this machine can be obtained directly from Maxtang and through Amazon

According to the Maxtang specifications, the company intends to make six different versions of this hardware using i3, i5 and i7 class processors.

Maxtang sells the machine directly on a quotation basis, which I’d assume could adjust the unit cost based on volume.

The review machine using the i5-1235u with 16GB of RAM and 512GB of SSD is $479, and the i7-1255u variant with the same amount of memory and storage is $599, available from Amazon.com.

The cheapest option is a $429 machine with just 8GB of RAM and 256GB of storage, using the i5 processor. That platform can also be had with 16GB of RAM and 1TB of storage for $579.

Interestingly, the i7 model is offered with no memory or storage for $469, which might be helpful if you have plenty of DDR4 SODIMM modules and NVMe drives spare.

Europeans can source this hardware from AliExpress with the i5 and i3 models listed, but there are no i7 options. The Core i5-1235U variant with 16GB of RAM and 512GB is £498.45 for UK customers.

As alternatives, there are plenty of Mini PC designs that support dual monitor outputs and up to four using USB-C or Thunderbolt ports, although docks or adapters would be needed to connect them to a typical HDMI TV input.

The problem with the majority of these options is that the machines are actively cooled and need ventilation to remain operational. They also don’t support operational hours in the BIOS.

For the quality of construction and passive cooling model, the price of the SXRL-20 seems reasonable, with the i5 models offering the best value.

  • Value: 4 / 5

Maxtang SXRL-20

(Image credit: Mark Pickavance)

Maxtang SXRL-20: Specs

Maxtang SXRL-20: Design

  • All-metal passively cooled
  • Designed to be mounted
  • Easy internal access

Most mini PC designs follow the old Intel NUC concept of a small box that mounts a 15cm square motherboard with components neatly stacked to keep everything compact. The SXRL-20 is not like that at all.

It has more of a set-top box feel, or even an automotive component aesthetic, with its flattened metal exterior and integrated heatsink fins.

Along with the PC, Maxtang provides two mounting plates made to connect to the underside, lifting the machine a short distance from the mounting surface. That’s ideal for an information booth or digital signage scenario.

Because this hardware won’t typically be sitting on a desk or used directly, with the exception of the wifi antenna BNCs, all the ports are on one edge.

These include four HDMI outs, dual 2.5GbE LAN ports, plus a selection of USB and a COM port. That last feature could be critical, as from this COM port you could easily hang the relay electronics to fire up lights and other hardware via the PC.

There is an option, not in our review hardware, to also have a side-mounted HDMI-in port, which might be helpful if you wish to record the reaction to promotional material or for security purposes.

The machine is powered by a small 90w laptop PSU, which is more than enough to drive this platform and whatever USB peripherals are connected to it.

In this writer’s experience, getting into mini computers can be more challenging than it should be, but this design is as straightforward as it gets. Simply removing six screws from the underside releases that side of the machine providing full access to the internal system, no spudgers required.

Inside is a large mainboard that fills 70% of the internal volume, with spaces for various upgrades and enhancements. There are two SODIMM slots occupied in the review machine with 8GB of Kingston-branded DDR4 modules for 16GB in total. It’s possible to replace these with 32GB modules for a maximum of 64GB.

The M.2 SSD was also a Kingston product, a 512GB SATA SSD, and that slot can take SATA or NVMe drives, but a second M.2 2280 slot is exclusively NVMe.

I’m not sure why Maxtang used an M.2 SATA drive since Kingston doesn’t list these devices for retail; they must be exclusively for OEM customers and industrial use.

The logic behind using it may be to reduce the chance of overheating since this enclosure is entirely passively cooled.

Maxtang SXRL-20

(Image credit: Mark Pickavance)

The WiFi is provided by a now-discontinued Intel AX200NGW controller in a M.2 2230 slot, but alongside that slot is an M.2 2242 slot that could take a second controller. There is also a SIM card slot that I assume requires an LTE modem that uses the spare M.2 2242, and there are four punch-outs on the rear for antennas to be mounted.

With LTE in this unit, reconfiguring it remotely or having it pick up new material to display on an overnight basis would be a breeze.

Overall, this design has two clearly defined objectives: to run without cooling for long periods, and to be easily adaptable should the mission require changes.

It succeeds in both these things, although it’s not something that you would want to repurpose as an Office PC, in case you wondered. While it runs Windows 11, the performance compared to a machine designed for that role is lacklustre for a few reasons I’ll cover in the performance section.

  • Design: 4.5 / 5

Maxtang SXRL-20: Features

  • Intel i5-1235U
  • Iris Xe GPU
  • DDR4 memory

Intel went through a slightly odd phase in which successive generations of its chip designs appeared to make limited headway and, in some respects, went backwards.

One of the most impacted series was the Alder Lake 12th generation, which Intel made for both desktop and mobile platforms. In this context, the chip used in this machine is an Alder Lake-U design that combines Golden Clove P-cores and Gracemont E-cores.

When Intel launched Raptor Lake chips for the 13th generation, these were superseded. With the advent of the Core Ultra series 1 and 2, Alder Lake is four generations behind the current product set.

This particular chip is interesting because it’s found favour in several non-mobile devices, particularly the Ugreen DXP4800 Plus and DXP480T NAS boxes.

Even by Intel’s curious standards, the Intel i5-1235U is an odd processor, but it’s found a number of niches where performance isn’t as important as flexibility.

One advantage it has over the UHD Graphics that the N100 is saddled with is the Iris Xe GPU, although this is hardly something for gaming.

One impressive thing about the Maxtang SXRL-20 is that it has four HDMI outputs, which flies in the face of the Iris Xe specifications. According to Intel, the Iris Xe supports a maximum of three displays, so what Maxtang did to get the fourth one is a mystery. Perhaps it’s an undocumented option, or they mapped one output over two HDMI ports, but it is possible with this machine.

However, depending on what you intend to do with those outputs, there are practical limitations based on the memory that the Iris Xe can map from main memory and the modes it supports. Trying to generate smoothly moving 3D images over all four displays is unrealistic, unless the resolution of each is dramatically reduced.

In theory, the Iris Xe can generate an 8K HDR image over HDMI 2.0, but that’s via a single monitor. If that’s segmented to four displays, then 1080p HDR is possible, and video playback at that level is achievable.

Maxtang SXRL-20

(Image credit: Mark Pickavance)

My issue with this is that it’s hard to see where the limits of this GPU and CPU combination are without actually trying to execute a specific file or scenario. What doesn’t help is that the Maxtang SXRL-20 uses DDR4, reducing the memory bandwidth for both the CPU and the GPU. It’s worth noting that the Intel i5-1235U can use DDR5 modules, but Maxtang chose not to provide that performance headroom for this hardware.

Clearly, those who designed the SXRL-20 had an objective in mind that it should be able to drive four monitors with four video streams smoothly at the target resolution, and it was deemed that DDR5 wasn’t necessary to deliver that.

The problem is that the use case defined by Maxtang might not be the same as one envisaged by a potential customer.

Overall, the hardware in the SXRL-20 is fit for purpose, but only within some narrow constraints.

  • Features: 4 / 5

Maxtang SXRL-20: Performance

Because of this unusual configuration, I’ve not pitched the Maxtang against another Intel system. It’s a little quicker than the typical N100-based machines, but significantly slower than even a Core-i3 N300 machine, like the Zotac P1430AJ Pico.

The issues here are that this CPU only has one performance core, and all the rest are efficiency. Only the P-core has hyperthreading, giving a total of twelve threads of processing.

Intel revised this design with slightly higher clock speeds for the i5-1335U, and Maxtang has that as an option for this series, but with the same underlying core and cache architecture, it won’t be much better.

What’s important to consider is that this system was specified for a job, displaying promotional graphics and videos, and it has sufficient power to do that without breaking any benchmark records.

By desktop PC standards, the performance of the SATA SSD is slow compared to NVMe drives, but again, not so glacial that it would interfere with the machine’s running.

This wasn’t meant to be used as a desktop PC; therefore, judging it by those standards isn’t helpful. It’s an appliance PC made to run throughout the day and not overheat, which seems well suited to do.

  • Performance: 3.5 / 5

Maxtang SXRL-20

(Image credit: Mark Pickavance)

Maxtang SXRL-20: Final verdict

Maxtang SXRL-20

(Image credit: Maxtang)

The Maxtang SXRL-20 is an interesting system that has more in common with a NAS than a desktop PC. However, given that the objective of delivering digital signage has different priorities, those behind its design approached its construction and specifications from a unique perspective. This hardware was made for a purpose, and it fulfils that brief well.

My only concern is that while the machine is appropriate, I’m unconvinced that using Windows 11 on a customer-facing system is such a great idea.

Given how Microsoft has an unfortunate track record of screwing up its own operating system, and how an ill-considered update might stop this system working, or end up with messages on the screen is a concern. While I’m sure it is possible to lock down a Windows machine to avoid these pitfalls, we’ve all seen Digital Signage with Microsoft enhancements that those running the system wouldn’t care for.

It’s worth noting that on the promotional material for this product, the Ubuntu logo makes an appearance along with the Linux one, so I’m not the only person thinking about this possibility seriously.

Should you buy a Maxtang SXRL-20?

Buy it if...

You like computers to be quiet
The design of this mini PC makes the entire case a radiator, avoiding fans entirely.

You want four monitors connected
With HDMI 2.0, it is possible to connect four screens to this system. But, be realistic about what you intend to show on those screens simultaneously. As the Iris Xe (80eu) isn't a discrete GPU.

Don't buy it if...

You want 4K on lots of screens
The Iris Xe GPU used in this system can drive four displays, but 4K video on four outputs might be beyond it. For those scenarios, you might need a discrete video card on a machine that won't be passively cooled.

You want max power
Unlike a lot of mini PCs I've reviewed, this machine isn't built for absolute performance - it's best for businesses with digital displays. View Deal

For more display essentials, we've rounded up the best digital signage software.

I’ve spent 30 hours and four seasons with MotoGP 25 and, as a franchise veteran, I’m still hooked
4:30 pm | May 10, 2025
Author: admin | Category: Computers Gadgets Gaming | Tags: , | Comments: Off

Have you played the MotoGP series lately? Challenging, isn’t it? Nobody’s gone this deep into sim territory in bike racers as Milestone’s recent releases, and while direction has served a hardcore nucleus of players willing to master the extremely nuanced inputs required to stop the bike without being launched into orbit, MotoGP 23 and 24 were a tough sell to newcomers and racing fans looking for something they could pick up and play.

Review info

Platform reviewed: PC
Available on: PC, PS5, PS4, Xbox Series X and Series S, Xbox One, Nintendo Switch
Release Date: April 30, 2025

Enter MotoGP 25 and its bushel of new features, including a new arcade handling mode that finds a pleasing halfway point between the ultra-demanding, ultra-gratifying sim handling of recent iterations and a more approachable take.

The bike still feels potent, twitchy and dangerous – it’s just that you can absolutely launch it down the inside of your opponents now and brake well into the apex, without tucking the front and pressing the rewind button for the 70th time this lap.

Easy rider

A promotional shot of a race in MotoGP 25.

(Image credit: Plaion)

As someone who (semi) mastered the sim handling in MotoGP 24, I was surprised how much of a draw the arcade handling is.

Far from feeling watered down, or like the bike’s riding itself, like the feeling you get when you use the neural aids, this mode just feels like you’ve got an incredible set of tires on. You can turn in more sharply than other riders, get on the power earlier, brake that little bit later. And that means I don’t have to do every practice session before a grand prix in order to find the pace. I can just launch into the race.

However, I do miss a few elements of the ‘pro’ mode, like bike setup and tire choice options. I can see why Milestone would remove these on paper, since having more variables to fiddle with might seem overwhelming to a newcomer. But it’d be nice to be able to turn them back on again if you want them.

There’s another drawback to arcade mode: the AI opponents are way too easy. I wouldn’t dream of racing against 120% AI in the last game, but this time in arcade mode I whizz past them like a rocket-propelled Valentino Rossi weaving past little kids on scooters. I’m not sure if it’s a feature or a bug, but I want more challenge.

Best bit

A promotional shot of a race in MotoGP 25.

(Image credit: Plaion)

Working your way up from the junior categories is a joy in this game that even EA F1 doesn’t have a direct answer to. Moto 3 and Moto 2 bikes each handle according to their own physics, but the sense of accomplishment you get from doing well enough in those categories to get a MotoGP contract is a real high.

Over to pro handling, then. It’s definitely received some tweaks since the last game, and in general the bike seems more compliant, particularly under braking. I found I could get away with braking harder for longer into corners without washing out, and the ride height device seems to activate and deactivate in a smoother way in and out of corners, making it slightly easier to maintain a flow and carry more corner speed.

It’s still incredibly demanding, and ultimately incredibly gratifying. And it’s still probably too much to ask of most players, which is why it’s a really big deal that the arcade handling option feels so good. A minor point, though: tire choices still feel a bit arbitrary. I picked a soft front and rear in every dry race of my four-season career in Moto 3, Moto 2 and MotoGP categories, and never had a reason to do otherwise.

Flat track friends

A promotional shot of a race in MotoGP 25.

(Image credit: Plaion)

Whichever mode you choose, the new additions to career mode prove a compelling draw. Top of the billing here are the training events, in which a rider from the roster of real competitors invites you to race minibikes, flat track or motard between race calendar rounds.

The gameplay benefits are twofold: you raise your rider fitness level to increase performance (though I’ve still no idea how this actually manifests and whether it just makes your lap times quicker) and boosts your relationships with the riders you train with. So if you want to land a factory Ducati ride one day, accepting all of Marc Marquez’s invites to go racing between rounds is a good way to improve your chances.

It’s also a thoughtful way of reflecting the real sport. Riders increasingly train together in cliques in modern MotoGP, so there’s an extra degree of immersion to getting out there onto the new tracks (four layouts over two locations) and cutting some sick lines with your paddock pals.

All three disciplines handle convincingly and are bolstered by bespoke new animations, and outside of career mode you can set up events using these bikes in the Race Off mode as solo or PvP events. Personally I didn’t feel especially compelled to master any of them. As a career mode mainliner, these training events were a means to an end, but a welcome addition.

What’s another year

A promotional shot of a race in MotoGP 25.

(Image credit: Plaion)

In terms of presentation, the game’s shifted over to Unreal Engine 5 and upgraded its audio by capturing sound directly from the 2024 bikes as they were raced on the track. I don’t notice a huge jump forwards visually that one might associate with an engine upgrade, but MotoGP was already a looker in the first place.

I do notice some newfound fidelity in the sound though, both in differentiating between manufacturer engine noises, and some additional pops and rumbles.

Further down the order, there’s a revamped bike development system which allows you to dictate exactly what area of the bike your team focuses on, and that’s been tied more closely to the career mode objectives that set rivalries with different opponents. For example, when given the choice of trying to beat one of three different riders as your next objective, one might boost your reputation, another might boost your bike development, and another will raise your relationship with a specific rider.

Time to pose the question that every annualised release must ultimately face: does it do enough to extract another full-price purchase from your wallet? To my mind as a series veteran who puts 100+ hours into every game, every year… Just barely, yes.

And I’m surprised to find that it’s the arcade handling, as much as anything else, that leads me to that decision. Not only do I find it a refreshing change for myself, it’s also an easier sell to my friends. The online community has always been smaller in this game than in contemporaries like EA’s F1 series or Assetto Corsa Competizione, so getting into an online race whenever I like isn’t a given. Opening the gates to a broader audience can’t be a bad thing.

However, I still feel the absence of historical bikes and riders, as we saw four games ago now in that superlative ‘Nine’ mode, and I still feel short-changed by the same old gloves, boots and leathers, with very limited colour customisation. There are more options in this game, but I want to be able to apply custom designs to them like I can with helmets, not just change their colour.

A close win is still a win. MotoGP 25 is headed in the right direction, and it can’t be easy to add the volume of content it’s added in less than twelve months. Maybe I’ll skip a year soon, but for now, I’m back in the title hunt.

Should I play MotoGP 25?

A promotional shot of a race in MotoGP 25.

(Image credit: Plaion)

Play it if…

You follow the real sport
There are so many authentic touches here, from the broadcast sound effects when a rider crashes to the inclusion of Moto 2 and Moto 3 categories

You’ve been put off by the handling before~
Pro mode still exists and is still a handful, but the new arcade physics is a much more accessible option

You’re already tired of watching Marquez win every race
There’s only one thing for it. Save us all from another 2019 and start winning some races.

Don’t play it if…

You want Crazy Taxi levels of arcade handling
At its heart this is still a sim, so be prepared to have to spend some time mastering the handlingView Deal

You’re fatigued by spending too many hours in MotoGP 24
If you burned out on the last game, there’s probably not enough to revive your interest. Skip a year then check back in. View Deal

Accessibility

There’s a decent range of options in the game for adjusting subtitles to maximise visibility, and 10 different languages available.

A colour blindness filter has been added, with the additional option of adjusting the filter intensity. On the audio side there’s a tinnitus reduction filter with individual frequency adjustment.

How I reviewed MotoGP 25

I played 30 hours of MotoGP 25 on PC, using an Xbox Elite controller. That time’s been split evenly between arcade and pro modes, using manual gearing and all assists disabled in either mode.

Career mode has accounted for most of those hours, where I worked up from Moto 3 to the big bikes, like I do every year. I’ve also tried ranked and unranked online PvP, and individual Race Off events.

First reviewed May 2025

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