The Corsair VOID Wireless V2 is, as you'd expect from the name, the second iteration of the VOID Wireless range. It's been over seven years since we reviewed the Corsair VOID Pro RGB Wireless, which is the V2's predecessor, and the original impressed us at the time. I'm happy to report the V2 improves upon pretty much every aspect, and retains the same price point as the first to boot.
This gaming headset aims to be the only audio device you'll need no matter which platform you play on: it's compatible with PC, Mac, PlayStation 5, PlayStation 4, Nintendo Switch, and iOS/Android (sorry, Xbox players).
Thanks to its dual wireless and Bluetooth connectivity, you can link two separate devices simultaneously and switch between them with the press of a button.
There's really very little to complain about with the VOID Wireless V2: the battery life is excellent, allegedly running at approximately 65-70 hours of continuous use, though that's so long I haven't had it run out despite using it for multiple days in a row without charging it.
It's lightweight at just over 300g, and as a result, very comfortable. The sound quality across every platform is fantastic too, especially PC and PS5 thanks to some special features… more on those below.
Corsair VOID Wireless V2 review: Price and availability
List price:$119.99 / £99.99 / AU$189
Cheaper than many premium gaming headsets
Offers superb value for money
While you can pick up a budget gaming headset for about half the price of the Corsair VOID Wireless V2, it's not going to turn many heads, nor is it likely to be built to last. And the same goes for the other end of the scale: there are plenty of headsets that will cost double, but will you get double the amount of performance from them? It's unlikely, which makes this one of the best value-for-money gaming headsets you'll find.
It's also more than capable of going toe-to-toe with them, and as the flashy new kid on the block thanks to its April 2025 launch, it's likely to be a headset in demand when gifting season rolls around later this year.
(Image credit: Future/Ford James)
Corsair VOID Wireless V2 review: Specs
(Image credit: Future/Ford James)
Corsair VOID Wireless V2 review: Design and features
Easy to set up and connect
Clean, sleek design
Rotatable - but not detachable or retractable - mic
There's no instruction manual or booklet included with the Corsair VOID Wireless V2, but that's because it really doesn't need one. The box contains the headset, USB 3.0 dongle, and USB 3.0-to-USB-C charging cable, and that's it.
Charge the headset, connect the dongle to your device of choice if you're connecting through the 2.4 GHz wireless connectivity, and turn on the headset, the two should automatically pair, and you're away.
A USB-C wireless receiver would be ideal too, as we gradually move away from USB 3.0, and it would also enable another connectivity option for devices like a Nintendo Switch or MacBook, but it'd be harsh to criticize it too much for that.
If you're using the VOID Wireless V2 on PC, you should install both the Dolby Access app and the Corsair iCUE software though. The former will detect your headset if it's set to be your primary audio output and allow you to enable Dolby Atmos' Spatial Audio feature, while the latter is essential for customization and getting the most out of your new cans.
You can change the function of the custom button on the headset, such as making it toggle the mute, or have it play/pause music. Meanwhile, on PS5, you can enable the Tempest 3D Audio via the console's sound settings as usual.
The design of the headset itself is sleek. My review unit is mostly white with light grey memory foam padding and a silver adjustable frame to ensure it sits tight on your head. Two skinny RGB lighting strips complete the look, facing the way you're looking. If you use the headset in a remote work meeting, however, be prepared for your colleagues to comment as if you look like you belong in a sci-fi TV series, as happened to me.
The only complaint here is that while the microphone is easy to use and fits in with the profile of the headset itself, it'd be a huge quality-of-life upgrade if it was detachable rather than just rotatable. You can swivel it up to sit vertically, but if it could be removed, the Bluetooth feature would make this suitable for listening to music on the go. As it stands, though, you don't really want to commute with a microphone attached to your headset.
(Image credit: Future/Ford James)
Corsair VOID Wireless V2 review: Performance
Lightweight and comfortable to wear
Terrific 3D audio on PC and PS5
Incredible battery life
Thanks to how light the headset is, combined with the memory foam cushions, I've worn it for hours at a time without feeling any discomfort. It saw me through a solid eight-hour Atomfall session on PS5 while sitting on my sofa, along with a similar length gaming Sunday playing a variety of games on PC.
On the former, it added to the already eerie, post-apocalyptic atmosphere of the British countryside by enhancing the groans of Ferals and the chatter of Outlaws in the area, along with the Tempest 3D Audio helping me pinpoint exactly where enemies were.
Of all the games I tested it with on PC, Call of Duty: Black Ops 6 is where the impressive audio was most noticeable. Listening for footsteps and gunshots is incredibly important in the first-person shooter game, and they were crystal clear with the VOID Wireless V2.
I also spoke with friends on Discord while using it on both platforms and had feedback that the voice quality was as good as it could be. It also has very good noise cancellation, which really helps with the immersion.
Finally, I'd be remiss not to talk a little more about the battery life. Coming in at around 70 hours, it blows a lot of its competition out of the water. I tried to use it for a number of sessions repeatedly without charging it, in order to get a rough ballpark for how long it lasts against that claimed 70-hour figure, but the light never changed from green to imply the battery was even starting to die.
(Image credit: Future/Ford James)
Should you buy the Corsair VOID Wireless V2?
Buy it if...
You’re after one of the latest gaming headsets that has it all Seriously, you're unlikely to find better than this on the market at this price point. It's one of the best examples of a complete product you'll find.
You find other headsets to be too heavy or uncomfortable This is so light and easy to wear for long periods, if it weren't for how good the noise cancellation is, you'd forget you're wearing it at times.
You want a headset compatible with multiple platforms It's simple to unplug the USB receiver from one device and plug it into another, without needing to reconnect it. Connecting via Bluetooth is also as simple as pressing the power button on the headset to open up the pairing. Find the headset in the list of Bluetooth devices nearby and voila!
Don't buy it if...
You need a headset for Xbox Unfortunately, the Corsair VOID Wireless V2 isn't compatible with Xbox consoles. However, Corsair does have other Xbox headset offerings, such as the HS65 Wireless.
You have a premium headset already Don't get me wrong, this is one of the best headsets I've ever used, but part of that comes due to its value. If you have a $200+ headset already that you're happy with, you don't need to abandon it for this one.
Also consider...
If, despite all this praise, you're still not sold on the Corsair VOID Wireless V2, consider these two other wireless headsets instead, at slightly more expensive price points but similarly feature-laden.
Razer BlackShark V2 Pro It's almost double the price, but the Razer BlackShark V2 Pro is currently our best-recommended wireless gaming headset. It offers pretty much everything the Corsair VOID Wireless V2 does, but it's also compatible with Xbox consoles. The design of the headset may also be to your personal preference over the VOID.
SteelSeries Arctis Nova Pro Wireless This offering comes at a much steeper cost, but it does have a few additional features to balance it out. It uses a wireless base station for connectivity, which works in a similar way to a USB dongle receiver but means it can be connected to two sources simultaneously, both wirelessly, as opposed to one through Bluetooth. This one also has a fully retractable mic, making it better suited for non-gaming purposes.
Used for nearly four weeks for all my gaming sessions
Tested with both PS5 and PC games
Also used it to listen to music while working, in meetings, and on Discord
Prior to getting my hands on the Corsair VOID Wireless V2, my audio device of choice on PC was the Philips Fidelio X3. That is an absolutely phenomenal pair of headphones, but it is not a gaming peripheral. It's made for music, doesn't feature much noise canceling, and doesn't come with a mic, so I also have a Blue Snowball desktop mic to hand. I'll likely continue to use the Fidelio X3 for all music purposes, but the VOID Wireless V2 has taken over every other aspect because of how well-rounded it is.
It's been used for a number of gaming sessions, both long and short, and thanks to the connectivity range, I can walk around my apartment while still talking to friends on Discord. I've played Atomfall and The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt on PS5, along with Call of Duty: Black Ops 6 and Monster Hunter Wilds on my gaming PC.
The LG G5 is the company’s flagship TV for 2025, and it changes the game for OLED TV tech with a completely new panel design that delivers notably higher brightness than its LG G4 predecessor. I’ll get into the specifics of that in the Picture Quality section of this review, but what you need to know is that with its impressive, mini-LED TV-rivalling brightness, the G5 succeeds brilliantly in bringing the best OLED TVs out of the darkness as a viable option for daytime, bright room viewing.
LG’s G4 relied on a micro lens array (MLA) layer to boost brightness over what conventional OLED TVs were capable of, but the new LG G5 incorporates a new Primary RGB Tandem structure OLED display panel. This uses individual red, green, and blue layers to produce light, and the resulting brightness is not only leaps and bounds better than what the G4 achieved with MLA, but it also yields improvements in color reproduction.
You’d think that the G5’s revamped display panel would command a higher price, but the LG pricing is equivalent to its G4 predecessor. However, at $3,399 / £2,399 / AU$5,299 for the 65-inch model I tested, it’s still very much a premium TV.
Along with higher brightness and richer color, the LG G5 offers a range of features that make it a flexible option for viewing in a range of lighting conditions. These include a new, more effective anti-glare screen, and a Filmmaker Ambient Light Mode that uses the TV’s built-in light sensor to dynamically adjust brightness without sacrificing picture accuracy in the process.
LG’s Alpha 11 AI processor Gen 2 is responsible for a range of AI picture and sound enhancements on the G5. These include AI Picture and Sound modes, voice recognition, and personalized content recommendations.
LG’s webOS 25 smart TV interface has been tweaked with the ability to switch between customized home screen layouts that get triggered by the viewer’s voice, and there are now onscreen wizards to guide you through the process of setting up unique AI picture and sound presets to accompany your custom home screen.
LG’s flagship G-series OLEDs are designed for wall-mounting, and the G5 has an Always Ready mode that lets the TV be used as a frame for displaying photos and art (now including images generated by AI with the TV’s assistance). But it's also a highly capable gaming TV, with support for 4K 165Hz, Nvidia G-Sync, and AMD FreeSync Premium. The G5’s Quick Card gaming portal also provides over 500 titles plus Nvidia GeForce Now, Luna, and other apps, and Xbox Game Pass support should be added during the start of 2025.
While the LG G5 has turned out to be a best-in-class OLED TV option for 2025, many people will be equally pleased with its step-down LG C5 model, which is already looking to be one of 2025's best TVs. The C5 isn't as bright as the G5, but you’ll save quite a bit by going with LG’s mid-range OLED .
LG G5 review: Price and release date
The LG G5 is the brightest OLED TV we've yet reviewed (Image credit: Future)
Release date: April 2025
48-inch: £1,799
55-inch: $2,499 / £2,399 / AU$4,199
65-inch: $3,399 / £3,299 / AU$5,299
77-inch: $4,499 / £4,499 / AU$7,999
83-inch: $6,499 / £6,999 / AU$9,999
97-inch: $24,999
The LG G5 is widely available in 55- to 83-inch screen sizes. A 48-inch model is also available in the UK, and a 97-inch option in the US, though those models don’t use the same Primary RGB Tandem structure panel as the other sizes, and won't be as bright.
Prices for the G5 series are equivalent to last year’s LG G4 series, despite the inclusion of a new panel design, but are notably higher than the mid-range LG C5 series OLED TVs.
LG G5 review: Specs
LG G5 review: Benchmark results
LG G5 review: Features
The LG G5 has four HDMI 2.1 ports with 4K 165Hz support (Image credit: Future)
Fourth-generation panel with Brightness Booster Ultimate
Filmmaker Ambient Light Mode debuts here
4K 165Hz gaming support on PC
A keyfeature of the LG G5 is a new fourth-generation OLED display panel with Primary RGB Tandem structure. In contrast to previous designs, which used two blue OLED layers plus a third layer with red, green, and yellow elements, the new panel uses individual red, green, and blue layers to produce light.
This “four-stack” structure benefits from increased brightness and enhanced color purity due to the panel’s use of separate OLED layers for the primary colors. Unlike the previous LG G4, the G5 doesn’t rely on a micro lens array (MLA) layer with microscopic lens elements to boost brightness.
LG refers to its new display panel tech as Brightness Booster Ultimate, and it’s accompanied by several other features to boost picture quality in a range of room lighting conditions. The first is an anti-reflective layer that LG says provides 30% higher glare resistance than last year’s G4.
Another is Filmmaker Ambient Light Mode, which uses the TV’s built-in light sensor to map gamma and PQ (the HDR equivalent of gamma) based on room lighting conditions. The G5 also has Perfect Black certification, which confirms that a TV can display less than 0.24 nits in conditions of up to 500 lux.
The G5’s Alpha 11 AI processor Gen 2 enables a range of AI-based picture and sound enhancements, including AI Picture and AI Sound modes. Picture and sound wizards guide you through setting up customized presets based on your response to a series of images and sound samples, and once completed, these can be automatically switched on for the specific users who created them based on voice recognition.
That also goes for the layout of the TV’s webOS 25 Home Screen – if you customize the app selection in your user profile, it'll switch to the layout you prefer when it detects your voice if you use the voice control system at all.
The G5 also gets a gaming boost over last year’s G4, with 4K 165Hz support for PC gaming along with Nvidia G-Sync and AMD FreeSync Premium. LG’s Gaming Portal offers over 500 game titles, with support for both Xbox and Luna controllers and Xbox Game Pass (coming in the first half of 2025, according to LG).
Usability features include AirPlay 2 and Chromecast built-in, along with hands-free voice control. The ThinQ screen in the webOS interface lets you configure devices to be controlled via Google Assistant, Amazon Alexa, Matter and Apple HomeKit, and there’s also a new, streamlined Magic Remote and more advanced AI Chatbot feature that can diagnose picture and sound issues.
Features Score: 5/5
LG G5 review: Picture quality
The G5's picture looks bright and punchy even in well-lit rooms (Image credit: Future)
Exceptional brightness for an OLED
Anti-reflection layer in the screen
Some issues with certain streaming formats
The LG G5 holds the distinction of being the brightest OLED TV we’ve yet measured at TechRadar. Peak brightness on a 10% HDR white window pattern in Filmmaker Mode measured 2,268 nits, and it was 1,850 nits in Standard picture mode. Those numbers are what we typically expect to see from higher-end examples of the best mini-LED TVs, and they best the Samsung S95D – our previous brightest OLED TV champion – by a sizeable margin.
The G5’s fullscreen HDR brightness measured 331 nits in Filmmaker Mode and 297 nits in Standard mode. That represents a boost over last year’s G4, which measured 257 in Filmmaker Mode, but it’s not the 40% fullscreen brightness boost that LG had previously cited for the G5. Measured in Vivid mode, the G5’s fullscreen brightness was 419 nits, a number closer to LG’s claim.
The G5’s color gamut coverage measured 99.6% for UHDA-P3 and 81.3% for BT.2020 in Filmmaker Mode. Those results are better than what we measured on the G4, and they match the Samsung S95D’s UHDA-P3 coverage.
The average Delta-E value (the margin of error between the test pattern source and what’s shown on-screen) for color accuracy was 1.2, which is excellent. (Any result under 3 is regarded as indistinguishable to the human eye.)
Given the LG G5’s high brightness, there was no need to dim the lights to make the picture look good – contrast, color saturation, and shadow detail all held up nicely even with my room’s overhead lighting on. That’s certainly not something you can say about all OLED TVs, which typically lag behind their mini-LED counterparts when it comes to brightness.
The new G5's new "four stack" OLED panel offers enhanced color performance over last year's G4 (Image credit: Future)
Even with the comparatively subtle Filmmaker Mode active, The Pitt (streamed via Max), a TV show that mostly takes place in a brightly lit hospital emergency room, looked staggeringly bright on the G5.
And darker shows such as Severance (on Apple TV+) could be watched in brighter room lighting conditions without losing black depth and shadow detail. That’s partially due to the TV’s anti-reflective layer, which manages to reduce screen glare without elevating black levels, but also its Filmmaker Mode Ambient Light setting, which uses the G5’s light sensor to adjust gamma (or PQ for programs with HDR) based on room lighting conditions.
Viewing the season 2 final episode of Severance, a scene where Mark S and Helly R chat furtively in the Lumon office showed off all the LG G5's best aspects. The background of the dark workspace was a deep, rich black, and the light from the data terminals bathed their faces with a striking blue and green glow. The refined shadow detail gave the picture a powerful sense of depth that, for me, really drove home the point of why you would spend top dollar for a premium OLED TV like the G5.
An LG G5 review from our colleagues at What Hi-Fi? cited an issue with streamed Dolby Vision movies and shows, resulting in posterization and blocky picture artifacts when watching dark scenes. My G5 review sample showed the same posterization on at least one movie, Alien: Romulus (streamed via Apple TV), though it wasn't an issue on other streamed dark Dolby Vision content I watched.
What Hi-Fi? later reported that an LG software update scheduled for a late April release fixes this Dolby Vision glitch, and after installing a pre-released version of that update, the posterization on Alien: Romulus disappeared, though it created other picture quality issues when streaming from the G5's Apple TV app, adding strange horizontal lines in some dark scenes.
Without these problems, the TV would score five stars for picture quality. These problems are very situational, which means I'm still happy giving the TV an overall score that marks it as best-in-class. Once we've fully tested the wide release version of LG's software update, we will update this review, and if these problems are removed as expected, I'll update this section.
The G5’s motion handling was impressive, with a reference clip from No Time to Die – in which James Bond traverses a rugged hillside cemetery as the camera pans along – showing only minimal judder and blur. This same scene can look downright wobbly on some TVs.
Enabling the TV's Cinematic Movement setting in the TruMotion menu effectively removed any residual motion artifacts without introducing a 'soap opera' effect.
Sports also looked great – the NCAA basketball championship aired during my time testing the G5 – with fast motion looking solid and the TV’s bright, contrast-rich picture bringing out the vivid colors of the players’ uniforms.
Picture quality score: 4.5/5
LG G5 review: Sound quality
The G5's 1-inch-thin frame is designed for a flush-mount against a wall and the TV comes with wall-mounting hardware (Image credit: Future)
4.2-channel speaker system
Effective AI Sound Pro mode
Sound Wizard for creating custom sound preset
The LG G5’s built-in 4.2-channel speakers take things up a notch from the 2.2-channel array built into the LG C5. An AI Sound Pro mode provides a virtual 11.1.2-channel upmix that makes a clear difference in the spaciousness of soundtracks when watching movies, but it also thins out the bass.
While Dolby Atmos is supported on the G5, DTS formats, disappointingly, are not. This is a step backwards from the G4, which had DTS support – though this won't be a problem for people using an AV receivers, and some soundbar setups.
Similar to the TV’s Picture Wizard, a Sound Wizard guides you through the process of creating a customized sound preset. This is entirely optional, and this preset doesn’t work when the TV is connected to a soundbar.
A useful WOW Orchestra mode lets you combine the output of the TV’s speakers with the speakers of a compatible LG soundbar when used together, for a bigger overall soundstage.
The movies and TV shows I watched on the G5 all sounded good, with clear dialogue and good spatial positioning of effects, especially with the AI Sound Pro mode active. The sound could also go fairly loud without coming across as strained.
Even so, given how good the G5’s picture looks, it would be a shame not to pair it with one of the best Dolby Atmos soundbars or dedicated home theater speakers.
Sound quality score: 4/5
LG G5 review: Design
An aluminum pedestal may be an extra cost option for the G5 (Image credit: Future)
Wall-mount hardware included
Optional pedestal stand
New, streamlined AI Magic Remote control
The G5 comes with wall-mounting hardware at all screen sizes, and a pedestal stand is available as an optional extra in the US. In the UK, you can choose if you want the stand or the mount in some sizes.
LG’s sturdy aluminum stand, which I used during my G5 review, allows for both an elevated height to accommodate a soundbar, or a lower height where the TV sits directly on the stand’s surface.
G5 TVs are designed to be wall-mounted, with the thin, 1-inch panel aligning perfectly flat against a wall like a picture frame when you use the dedicated mount.
The TV’s nearly non-existent bezel gives it an 'all-picture' look that adds to the art-like quality, and a connection panel located on the back with bottom and side-mounted ports, along with cable management hardware, lets you hook up sources without detracting from the neat look.
Connections on the G5 include four HDMI 2.1 inputs, an RF antenna input, three USB ports and an Ethernet port.
LG’s new AI Magic Remote for the G5 is more compact and streamlined than previous Magic Remotes, with a flat surface, a reduced button layout, and a smaller central scroll wheel. Unfortunately, not all regions get this new, mostly improved design, though it was included with my review sample in the US.
The UK still gets a design with channel buttons, though it does include new AI keys.
The new AI button provides quick Chatbot access, and there’s also a dedicated button to call up the TV’s ThinQ screen. I never really had a problem with the previous Magic Remote, but some users may prefer the more traditional design of this new version.
Design score: 4.5/5
LG G5 review: Smart TV and menus
LG's webOS 25 interface has been enhanced with multiple viewer profiles and picture settings that can be activated by voice (Image credit: Future)
webOS 25 smart interface
Always Ready feature with 'ambient mode' option
Quick Cards and Quick Menu for easy app and settings access
The G5 uses LG’s webOS 25 interface, which is one of the best smart TV systems going. Like other smart TV interfaces, the top third is dedicated to a promotional banner (in this case, one mostly directing you to the LG Channels free ad-supported TV portal), alas, but below that is a Quick Cards section that provides hubs for Sports, Games, Music, Home and more.
The Home Card hub provides information about connected wired and wireless sources, which can be accessed using the TV’s remote control. It also lets you connect to Google Home, Matter, and LG ThinQ smart devices, which can be controlled directly from the TV.
The order of apps in the home screen’s middle section can be edited according to which ones you use most, and there’s also a Live TV option that shows a grid of both broadcast TV channels pulled in by the best indoor antennas and ones available on the LG Channels portal.
An Always Ready feature that needs to be enabled in the General menu lets you display images (including from your personal photo library) when you’re not using the TV, including ones that can be generated using AI. When in Always Ready mode, the voice recognition and AirPlay/Chromecast remain active, so you don’t have to power it on to use those functions.
A very useful webOS feature is the Quick Menu, which appears as a transparent overlay on the screen’s left side that lets you select between picture and sound modes, among other settings. You can also access the TV’s AI Chatbot from here, which can be used to guide you through the G5’s many settings and features.
The TV’s AI Picture wizard can be useful for creating a preset that corresponds to your preferences, but I found that the one I dialed in was overly cool-looking for my preference, despite it theoretically following my preferences, and I stuck with Filmmaker Mode instead for most viewing.
While I generally found navigating the TV’s menus to be easy, and was satisfied with the wide range of options for adjusting picture and sound, I found it annoying that the new, redesigned Magic Remote control lacks an input button for switching sources.
It’s easy enough to do that by pressing the Home hub button on the remote and then navigating to a specific source, but input select is nonetheless a button that should be included on every TV remote.
Smart TV & menus score: 5/5
LG G5 review: Gaming
A Game Dashboard allows for easy gaming-related picture and sound adjustments (Image credit: Future)
Four HDMI 2.1 ports
4K 165Hz, FreeSync Premium and Nvidia G-Sync
9.2ms input lag (Boost mode)
LG TVs have fantastic gaming credentials, and the G5 continues in that tradition of the best gaming TVs. Its four HDMI ports support 4K 165Hz, FreeSync Premium and Nvidia G-Sync. Input lag measured in Game Optimizer mode with a Bodnar 4K input lag meter was 9.2ms in Boost mode, which is about as low as TVs get.
The G5’s Game Card Gamung Hub offers over 500 games and apps, including Nvidia GeForce Now and Luna. (Xbox Game Pass support is coming in the first half of 2025, according to LG.)
When in Game Optimizer mode, a Game Dashboard pop-menu provides quick access to a range of adjustments and presets, which can be selected without pausing the game you’re playing.
The brightness level of the G5 is great here, again, because it means its good for playing in the day time without severe mirrored reflections distracting from what you're trying to focus on.
Priced competitively with premium OLED competition
Step-down LG C5 OLED also excellent
Very good overall value
At $3,399/ £3,299 / AU$5,299 for the 65-inch model I tested, the LG G5 is priced higher than another 2025 premium OLED, the Samsung S95F, which has a similarly high brightness as the G5 plus a Glare-Free 2.0 screen that’s even more effective at eliminating reflections in bright rooms.
The G5 is also priced lower in the US than another 2025 premium OLED, the Sony Bravia 8 II, which will sell for $3,999 in a 65-inch screen size… however, in the UK, the Bravia 8 II is actually priced slightly lower than the 65-inch G5, just to mix things
If you don’t require super-high brightness and want to save some money, the LG C5 ($2,699 / £2,699 at 65 inches) is an excellent choice. The C5’s peak brightness is roughly half of what we measured on the G5, but it's full of features and its picture quality is still exceptional, especially when viewed in a light-controlled environment.
Given its fantastic all-around performance, great features, and more affordable cost compared to some of its high-end OLED competition, the G5 earns high ratings for value.
Value score: 4/5
Should I buy the LG G5?
(Image credit: Future)
Buy it if...
You want to watch in bright rooms The G5 OLED’s brightness rivals that of premium mini-LEDs. It also features an effective anti-glare screen and a Filmmaker Ambient Light Mode that compensates for brighter rooms without sacrificing picture accuracy.
You want a TV for wall-mounting With a slim, wall-hugging design, the G5 is specifically designed for wall-mounting and a specially designed bracket is provided.
You want a great TV for gaming With support for 4K 165Hz, FreeSync Premium, and Nvidia G-Sync, and an impressively low 9.1ms input lag, the G5 is about as good as gaming TVs get.
Don't buy it if…
You don’t want to use a soundbar The G5’s 4.2-channel speakers deliver more than adequate sound, but a TV this impressive should ideally be paired with a soundbar or external speakers for a complete experience.
You want HDR10+ support LG TVs support Dolby Vision, but not the HDR10+ high dynamic range format. That could be an issue if you have some 4K Blu-rays that include this format and not Dolby Vision.
You want to save money LG’s mid-range C5 series OLED TVs aren’t as bright as the G5 series, but they cost considerably less and also provide excellent picture quality and a great array of features.
LG G5 review: Also consider...
Samsung S95F We haven’t yet reviewed the Samsung S95F, butwehave seen it in action extensively and, like the G5, it combines an impressively bright OLED picture with effective anti-screen reflection tech. Initial US pricing for the S95F is also lower than for the G5.
LG C5 The C5 isn’t as bright as the G5, but it’s a great all-around TV that’s also feature-packed for the price, as we observed in our LG C5 review. This mid-range OLED is a good alternative if you don’t need its picture to stand out high ambient light viewing environments.
Sony Bravia 9 Sony’s flagship TV is about as premium as mini-LED gets, and we appreciated its bright yet refined picture and powerful sound in our Sony Bravia 9 review. Like the G5, it’s a pricey option, but a good choice if you prefer to not use a soundbar.
How I tested the LG G5
Measuring a 10% HDR white window pattern during testing (Image credit: Future)
I spent about 20 hours in total measuring and evaluating
Measurements were made using Calman color calibration software
A full calibration was made before proceeding with subjective tests
When I test TVs, I first spend a few days or even weeks using it for casual viewing to assess the out-of-box picture presets and get familiar with its smart TV menu and picture adjustments. I next select the most accurate preset (usually Filmmaker Mode, Movie or Cinema) and measure grayscale and color accuracy using Portrait Displays’ Calman color calibration software.
The resulting measurements provide Delta-E values (the margin of error between the test pattern source and what’s shown on-screen) for each category, and allow for an assessment of the TV’s overall accuracy.
Along with those tests, I make measurements of peak light output (recorded in nits) for both standard high-definition and 4K high dynamic range using 10% and 100% white window patterns. Coverage of DCI-P3 and BT.2020 color space is also measured, with the results providing a sense of how faithfully the TV can render the extended color range in ultra high-definition sources.
For the LG G5, I used the Calman ISF workflow, along with the TV’s advanced picture menu settings, to calibrate the image for best accuracy. I also watched a range of reference scenes on 4K Blu-ray discs to assess the TV’s performance, along with shows streamed from Max, Netflix, and other services.
The Mobapad N1 HD is a Nintendo Switch controller aimed towards more serious gamers, thanks to its versatile functionality and premium features.
It doesn’t look particularly spectacular, and it even lacks RGB lighting, a common feature on many third-party controllers. It does, however, look a little more distinct in its pink and purple colorway.
On close inspection, you can tell the N1 HD is built to a high standard, rivaling some of the best Nintendo Switch controllers. The materials feel premium and the construction is solid, yet it’s also very light in the hand and comfortable to hold – although those with larger hands might find it a bit too small.
The buttons and sticks also feel great, offering a pleasing amount of dampening and smoothness for the most part. The N1 HD also comes with a USB cable for charging and wired play, although it’s quite short and isn’t braided, restricting its practicality.
The mobile app for the N1 HD includes various customization options, some of which are pretty detailed, such as custom curve profiles for the analog sticks. Certain adjustments can also be made using the settings and other buttons on the controller itself.
To game with, the N1 HD lives up to its promises. The Hall effect sticks are as smooth as you could want, and the buttons are satisfying and super responsive, especially the D-pad – no matter which of the two included hats you have attached. It’s a shame, however, that the triggers lack analog control when used with a PC or mobile.
Although I found it easy to connect to the Switch and PC, switching between them on the fly isn’t really viable, since repairing is required, although fortunately, this is an easy process. Connecting to Android is relatively simple too, although beware that you will need to connect to "Mobapad N1" rather than "Mobapad N1 HD" in the list of Bluetooth devices your phone finds.
The N1 HD is expensive, but so too are the Nintendo Switch Pro Controller and the 8BitDo Ultimate, two of the best Switch controllers out there. Like those pads, it’s a hugely capable controller and although it lacks analog triggers and seamless device switching, the N1 HD is worth your consideration all the same.
Mobapad N1 HD review: Price and availability
$74 (about £60 / AU$119)
Available now worldwide
Similarly priced to key rivals
The Mobapad N1 HD costs $74 (about £60 / AU$119) and is available now in three colorways: black, white, and pink with purple accents. Mobapad only lists USD prices on its website, but it does ship worldwide. It comes with two D-pad hats, a USB cable for charging and wired play, and a dongle for wireless PC connectivity.
If we judge it by its original price (we have seen it on sale at a considerable discount), it’s close to the official Nintendo Switch Pro Controller, although this controller lacks official support for other platforms, as well as extra buttons on the front and rear.
The N1 HD also costs about the same as the 8BitDo Ultimate, our pick as the best Nintendo Switch controller right now. This too has Hall effect sticks and multi-platform support, but unlike the N1 HD, the Ultimate comes with its own charging dock. However, it doesn’t have NFC support, so it can’t be used with Amiibo accessories.
Mobapad N1 HD review: specs
(Image credit: Future)
Mobapad N1 HD review: design and features
Solid yet lightweight build
Might be too small for some
Detailed mobile app
The N1 HD boasts a similar design to the best Xbox controllers: it even has the same distinctive D-pad design, although this is removable and can be swapped with a more traditional four-pronged unit included in the box. Due to these similarities, It looks rather unoriginal in its black and white colorways, but the pink and purple variant does help to set it apart somewhat.
However, the upside of this familiar form is the ergonomic benefit: it sits well in the hand, and the lightness makes it even more comfortable. It’s a little smaller than an Xbox Wireless Controller, though, which may be a problem for those with larger hands. And if you're a fan of the best PS5 controllers, then it might not be for you either. Despite its unsubstantial weight, it feels well constructed, with durable, premium-feeling plastics. The textured grips are a welcome touch too.
The USB-C port is easy to use thanks to its placement, although it isn’t recessed, which may be a cause for concern, but I didn’t find it prone to disconnecting while gaming. The included cable is a standard charging cable, without the braiding or length those included with many other controllers have, which does limit its practical usage.
The N1 HD has liquid silicone buttons, which Mobapad claims are more comfortable and more durable, while also improving consistency. Under the thumb, they certainly feel pleasant, but the dampening isn’t the best I’ve experienced, and the button caps aren’t the tightest, with some wobble to them. The shoulder buttons, however, feel better in both these aspects, but the triggers are a little too short for my liking.
The analog sticks are a highlight, with treaded edges to help improve grip, which they certainly do. I did find them to be a tad small, though, but those with smaller thumbs shouldn’t have a problem.
There are also two extra back buttons for customizable programming. While these are also quite small, they did suit my grip style, as my middle fingers naturally landed flush onto them.
Aside from the usual Switch buttons, you’ll also find a setting button, which can be used in conjunction with other inputs to perform various functions, from altering vibration intensity and toggling turbo modes to programming macros. These are complex for input-based functions; some controllers don’t even offer this level of customization in their software tools.
Speaking of which, the Mobapad mobile app offers even more tweaking potential, including the ability to remap buttons and set trigger modes on a per-button basis, with hold and loop options to choose from.
You can also change the dead zones and curve profiles of the analog sticks, with the latter adjusted via two points on a graph, freely draggable to create your own style, which is very involved. It’s a shame, however, that you can’t even view the battery level of the N1 HD in this app, which seems like a basic piece of information to omit.
Other features of the N1 HD include the ability to switch between Xinput, Dinput (for older games), Switch Pro input modes, and NFC support for Amiibo hardware. Currently, it’s not compatible with Mobapad’s PC software, but support is expected after March.
(Image credit: Future)
Mobapad N1 HD review: performance
Great buttons and sticks
No analog triggers
Device switching clunky
The N1 HD performs well. The face buttons are satisfying to use, with a good deal of accuracy and responsiveness. The D-pad has these qualities in even more abundance, with an even shorter actuation, making it great for rapid taps. It’s also easy to roll for quick consecutive inputs with either the circular or four-pronged hat installed. It is, however, very clicky, feeling more like a mouse button than a controller button, which may deter some gamers, but I found it satisfying to use.
Even more damped are the shoulder buttons, which have a softer feel but still provide a responsive input. However, since the N1 HD is a Switch controller first and foremost, the triggers lack analog capability, even when used with a PC. This is a shame when playing certain games, such as those involving driving or racing, since they lack the precise control these titles benefit from.
The analog sticks utilize Hall effect technology, which purportedly offers greater precision as well as preventing stick drift. I certainly found them precise and incredibly smooth to move in all directions, providing just the right amount of resistance to impart some useful feedback without being onerous. The N1 HD also supports motion controls, and again I found these accurate, tracking superbly.
In my experience, the rear M buttons were also easy to use, although they were less consistent in their responsiveness; their small size and short travel meant that they were hard to hit in the optimal place every time.
Connecting the N1 HD to your platform of choice is also very easy. During my test, it connected instantly to my Switch, as well as to my desktop when using the included USB dongle, making it just as amenable to the platform as some of the best PC controllers. However, hot-switching between wasn’t an option, as the N1 HD required re-pairing to each device, which is a shame for those who switch between the two regularly.
At first, I was unsuccessful in connecting the N1 HD to my Google Pixel 7a, although this was remedied when I realised that I needed to connect to "Mobapad N1" rather than "Mobapad N1 HD" in the list of found Bluetooth devices. Once paired, using the N1 HD with my phone was as easy and responsive as with other platforms.
I wasn’t able to test the battery life of the N1 HD to exhaustion, and considering the lack of battery information – none in the mobile app and only an LED indication on low battery – I couldn’t gauge how much I had left. I can say, though, that it lasted for several days of use without showing a low battery warning.
(Image credit: Future)
Should I buy the Mobapad N1 HD?
Buy it if...
You want an Xbox-style controller The Xbox design is a popular one for good reason: it offers just about the best ergonomics around, and the N1 HD is all the better for following its lead.
You want multi-platform support Although the N1 HD is primarily a Switch controller, it also works with PC and mobile devices, both wired and wirelessly.
Don't buy it if...
You have large hands Despite its high levels of comfort, the overall form of the N1 HD is quite small, as are the sticks, triggers, and rear M buttons.
You want analog triggers Despite being compatible with platforms other than the Switch, the N1 HD doesn’t have analog triggers, which won’t be ideal for certain games.
Also consider...
Nintendo Switch Pro Controller As one of the console’s official controllers, the Switch Pro Controller is unsurprisingly one of the best, offering more features and functionality than the stock Joy Con controllers. We found it comfortable to hold and were taken by its excellent D-pad. And although its original price is relatively high, it can often be found at a discount. Read our Nintendo Switch Pro Controller review.
8BitDo Ultimate The 8BitDo Ultimate is our number pick as the best Switch controller, thanks to its great price, performance, feature set, and comfort levels. It also comes with its own charging dock, which is very convenient. However, unlike the N1 HD, there’s no NFC for Amiibo support, but this is about the only drawback. Read our 8BitDo Ultimate review.
How I tested the Mobapad N1 HD
Tested for several days
Used on Switch and PC
Plentiful gaming experience
I tested the N1 HD for several days, during which time I used it on Switch and PC, both wired and wirelessly. I tried to use it on two Android phones but failed to connect with either.
I played The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom, which provides a thorough test for any controller, given the demands it places on all manner of inputs, from the face buttons to the analog sticks and motion controls. On PC, I played Art of Rally to test the triggers and sticks, and Tekken 8, which is great for testing button responsiveness. On my Android phone I played Alien: Isolation and Asphalt Legends Unite.
I have been gaming for over 25 years, and during that time I have experienced a large number of controllers across a myriad of platforms. I play on consoles, including the Switch, as well as PC, both of which I use controllers with.
Like any decent work of art, the new Creative Pebble Nova will mean different things to different people. TechRadar's audio editor Becky Scarrott said they looked like Magic 8-Balls, or lawn bowls with audio credentials – and she meant that as high praise. My partner thought they looked like an overly-elaborate microphone set up. I saw them more as delightful flotsam from an alien spacecraft, which had found its way to my desk.
However you look at it, the Pebble Nova speakers are a novel-looking new audio set-up fitting to strut their way onto our list of the best desktop speakers (and possibly even the best stereo speakers) on fashion chops alone.
The proposition doesn't need to rely on its good looks to get by, though. These speakers sound great, with defined bass, a high max volume and selection of enhancement features that make a marked difference to the norm for the money. They're elevated from your desk to create a much more immersive surround-sound effect and use coaxial drivers to refine the audio they deliver.
You'll find, though, that they cost a fair amount of aforementioned money. As the newest in Creative's line of affordable Pebble computer speakers, you'd think they might adhere to the affordable end of the market, but they're fairly premium in price. Not bank-breaking, but definitely enough to think twice about.
Maybe not twice actually, perhaps thrice. The Pebble Nova take a fair amount of set-up, with Creative channeling its inner Ikea with how much construction is needed. They also require a fair bit of space due to their design, so you'll need to make sure your desk is relatively large and uncluttered for them.
All that said, if you do decide you have the space, money and patience for them, the Creative Pebble Nova are a great set of computer speakers, regardless of what kind of audio you need them to play.
Creative Pebble Nova review: Price and release date
(Image credit: Future)
Announced in December 2024
Mid-range at $279.99 / £239.99 / AU$499.95
The Creative Pebble Nova were released in December 2024, as the latest entry in Creative’s Pebble line-up of desktop speakers. They are, by a significant margin, the most expensive.
You can pick up the Creative Pebble Nova for $279.99 / £239.99 / AU$499.95 (although fair warning: they’re out of stock in several of the regions I checked). That ain’t cheap, especially when you consider that the next most expensive members of the Pebble family, the Pebble X, cost $89.99 / £84.99 / AU$169.95.
At that price, there’s no doubt that these are premium speakers. There are only a few entries on our list of the best computer speakers that cost more, although admittedly those cost a lot more, so if you want premium speakers but don’t want to hand over your life savings for them, these could be a good option.
As audiophiles will know, though, you can spend a lot more on high-spec speakers, up to ten times as much.
Creative Pebble Nova review: Specs
Creative Pebble Nova review: Features
(Image credit: Future)
USB, Bluetooth and AUX connections
Creative App brings ways to customize audio
Acoustic Engine brings some useful features
The Creative Pebble Nova offer three ways to connect to your chosen device. First up is with a 3.5mm jack, which will let you play music but won’t let you customize it via the Creative App (more on that later). Second is Bluetooth, with the Nova supporting Bluetooth 5.3 to various devices including phones, computers and games consoles. Thirdly is with USB, which is what I did for the majority of this review. In the box is a USB-C to USB-C cable but if, like me, your PC only has USB-A ports, you can buy cheap adaptors online.
If you connect via Bluetooth or USB, the Creative App (available on mobile and PC) is a no-brainer. It offers the ability to change the Nova’s LED lighting effects, an equalizer along with loads of presets, the ability to switch which of the speakers is the left and right one and the promisingly-titled Acoustic Engine.
Take my advice: when you first set up the Pebble Nova, go to the Acoustic Engine page and turn everything on. It includes features like audio upscaling, dialogue enhancement and virtual surround-sound, all of which have marked improvements on the way the speakers sound. I regret that I was already weeks into the testing process before I bothered to open this page!
Features score: 4.5/5
Creative Pebble Nova review: Design
(Image credit: Future)
Bowling balls on stalks
Takes up lots of space
Time-consuming set-up process
How do you describe the design of the Creative Pebble Nova? Are they eyeballs on stalks? Alien command consoles? Magic 8-Balls? If you’re able, check out the review pictures because they’ll do better justice to the odd look of the Nova than my Creative Writing degree ever could. If you can’t see them, then… they’re basically giant spheres, held up from a circular base by a thin dowel.
It’s certainly a unique look taking the spherical-ish looks of other Pebble devices and literally elevating it. But it has a second advantage: the speakers themselves are higher than computer speakers generally are, which means ‘surround sound’ audio actually does surround you, as it’s at ear level (with the 45-degree point of the speakers also helping).
You can pick the Novas up in black, as you see in the images, and in a chic white-and-bronze model too.
I can see this design being a bit divisive but I didn’t mind it (I also spent lots of the review period with them hidden by my second screen). However there are two issues too.
(Image credit: Future)
Firstly, these take up a lot of space. Said space is at a premium when it comes to the desk upon which I use my desktop computer, and I found it quite hard to accommodate the Pebble Nova given the dimensions of both the speakers and my London apartment – it’s why the images accompanying this review are of my laptop, because my desk was too cluttered with the Creatives on it!
The second thing to note is that the Pebble Nova take quite a bit of setting up: not only do you need to go through all the usual cable rigamarole of desktop speakers, but you also have to attach the dowels to the stands and those to the speakers. This was admittedly easier than your average Ikea project, but it still took a little while to accomplish (I should note, you don’t have to elevate the speakers if you don’t want, and can attach them straight to a stand).
On the primary– ‘orb’? – you get several ports: the USB-C power delivery port, another USB-C port to connect to your computer, and the 3.5mm headphone jack, as well as the cable which runs to the other speaker. You also get a range of buttons for volume, power, connection and more.
The speakers have LED lights which you can program using the app, although they’re not huge or bright and I didn’t really notice them during everyday PC use.
Design score: 4/5
Creative Pebble Nova review: Sound quality
(Image credit: Future)
1-inch driver + 3-inch woofer
Exuberant, clear bass and mids
Unnecessarily-high max volume
Each of the Creative Pebble Nova speakers packs both a 1-inch tweeter with a 3-inch woofer in a coaxial set-up.
I'm used to PC speakers being good for certain tasks and struggling with other ones (a set-up that's great for music might struggle for the range of sounds needed for gaming, or be poorly-tuned for YouTube videos, for example) but I was pleasantly surprised at how the Creative was a jack of all trades.
I say 'pleasantly surprised' because it wasn't necessarily expected. The presence of a woofer gives away that the Pebble Nova has a distinctly energetic sound profile, with plentiful bass. However these lower tones are well-defined and clear, instead of being overpowering and thumping like some bassy speakers can be.
This meant I could enjoy different kinds of music but then could listen to spoken-word audio without low voices having an unnatural rumble to them, an issue I've faced before.
(Image credit: Future)
Treble is a little less bright than it could be, but I quickly fixed this in the Creative App with some quick equalizer tweaking.
The Creative Pebble Nova is great for the kind of sound stage or surround-sound audio that really benefits immersive gaming. This is because the elevated height of the speaker poles, plus their being angled upwards at 45 degrees, means that audio is a lot closer to ear-level than your standard desktop speakers.
The result is a marked improvement in immersion: the tweeting of birds, the sound of wind in trees, the repeated taunting of a dangerous bandit I was unsuccessfully trying to run away from, all felt well-placed around me during gaming sessions. The effect was definitely more pronounced than on other desktop speakers I've tried, which sit lower than your ear level.
According to Creative, the Pebble Nova has a whopping 100W power output for high volumes. Since I have neighbors, I didn't test quite how loud it goes, but it definitely reached (and could easily exceed) my needs. Why you'd need incredibly-loud speakers for your desktop, presumably within half a meter of you, isn't quite clear, but it means that they can double as general party speakers if you prefer.
Sound quality: 4.5/5
Creative Pebble Nova review: Value
(Image credit: Future)
Not a viable option for people on a tight budget
Other Pebbles may appeal to money-conscious buyers
While the overall Pebble line of Creative desktop speakers is known for offering great value for money, that's naturally less true of the Nova, as premium equipment always offers incremental returns for the price.
The Nova are good, but you're paying for it, as they're not cheap (at least, by Creative standards, although you can easily find countless pricier alternatives). They're not poor value for money, but they're not as much an obvious bargain as other Pebbles. That said, if I had the expendable income, I'd buy them – so take from that what you will.
Value: 4/5
Should I buy the Creative Pebble Nova?
(Image credit: Future)
Buy them if…
You like the look of them Fan of the way the Novas look? Then you should go for them, as you'll be hard-pressed to find anything quite as distinctive.
You're particular about your audio The Creative app's equalizer, and Acoustic Engine options, will let picky listeners fine-tune the way the speakers sound more so than some rivals.
Don’t buy them if…
You think they look silly If you prefer your desktop speakers to speak only through the drivers instead of the fashion statement, you best check out other options.
You've got limited space I have a medium-sized desk and I had to remove some decorations to fit the Pebble Nova, so if you're short on desk real estate, these might not fit.
Creative Pebble Nova review: Also consider
Creative Pebble Plus There are plenty of cheaper Creative Pebble desktop speakers on the market including the Plus, which we said will give you "more than your money’s worth".
Vigilant Audio SwitchOne Of the two options in our best desktop speakers round-up that have a similar price to the Pebbles, the Vigilants are the most recent. They have a pretty 'standard' design but sound great to listen to.
The testing process of the Creative Pebble Nova was over a month.
For most of that time, I tested the Nova alongside my Windows desktop PC, with the speakers on my desk. I also tested it paired via Bluetooth to my phone and, for a short while, connected to my Windows laptop (as pictured).
I used my PC as normal during the month which includes my day job, various other types of work, watching TV shows and YouTube videos, streaming lots of music and playing video games.
I have over six years' experience testing gadgets for TechRadar which includes other desktop speakers, audio products (including from Creative) and other types of tech.
This is going to be a quick one because there just isn’t much to say about the Acer Nitro NGR300. As a PC and mobile controller, it probably would’ve made a decent purchase had it been released close to a decade ago. Around that time, there was much less in the way of wireless controller options, and they didn’t nearly have the feature sets we take for granted today.
At face value, it isn’t a horrible controller. I quite like its aesthetic, and it performs perfectly well while gaming - feeling responsive whether you’re wired via USB-C or wireless via Bluetooth. A word of warning, though; Bluetooth is the only wireless option here, so you may need to source a Bluetooth adapter separately in the case your setup doesn't have it built in.
In 2025, however, there isn’t much of a reason to purchase the Acer Nitro NGR300. And perhaps the brand knows this, too, as it only seems to be available in the UK (at least at the time of writing). When it comes to the best PC controllers, there are so many options that cost the same or are cheaper than the Nitro - while simultaneously offering contemporary features like Hall effect sticks, 2.4GHz wireless connectivity, and more.
(Image credit: Future)
Acer Nitro NGR300: Price and availability
List price: £49.99
Limited to UK-only availability
There are cheaper options available with more features
Much like the Acer Predator controller, the Acer Nitro NGR300 only appears to be available in the UK. However, it’s £20 cheaper than the Predator, coming in at £49.99. If you’re purchasing from abroad, you’re looking at roughly $64.99 / AU$100. The trade-off here is that the Nitro lacks the 2.4GHz connectivity and Nintendo Switch compatibility of its counterpart.
That being said, it’s still very difficult to recommend the Nitro when competing models like the GameSir T4 Kaleid ($41.99 / £41.99) and the 8BitDo Ultimate C Bluetooth controller ($29.99 / £24.99) come in much cheaper. With these, you’re also getting more features. In the Kaleid’s case, you’ve got drift-resistant Hall effect sticks and tactile microswitch buttons. For the Ultimate C, while lacking Hall effect, it makes up for it with 2.4GHz connectivity and Nintendo Switch compatibility as well as PC and mobile.
Acer Nitro NGR300: Specs
(Image credit: Future)
Acer Nitro NGR300: Design and features
Simple, yet cool look
Cheap-feeling build quality
Turbo button function works as you’d expect
I do quite like the look of the Acer Nitro NGR300. While certainly an understated design, the subtly textured pattern bearing the ‘Nitro’ emblem is a really nice touch. Acer clearly knows how to do a lot with a little when it comes to overall looks, and it’s easily my favorite thing about this gamepad.
(Image credit: Future)
That’s about where the positives end when it comes to design and features, sadly. Overall build quality feels cheap and overly plasticky; a letdown even with that relatively budget-friendly price tag.
Sticks and face buttons both feel solid, in fairness, but I’m not at all a fan of the incredibly mushy D-pad that leads to some imprecise inputs. The bumpers and triggers are also relatively wide, with the latter also feeling quite listless when pressed.
The standout feature here is certainly the dedicated Turbo button. If you’ve used the feature on other controllers - which lets you assign a button to hold for continuous inputs - then it’s the same here. It’s certainly handy for old-school beat ‘em ups and action RPGs (role-playing games), but by no means is it the unique selling point it may have been all those years ago.
Acer Nitro NGR300: Performance
Performs adequately in both wired and wireless modes
It’s a Bluetooth controller, but it’s not compatible with Switch
Relies on AA batteries for wireless play
Once more, there’s not much to write home about in terms of performance with the Acer Nitro NGR300. As a standard controller experience, it is comparable to similarly basic pads like the Xbox Wireless Controller, albeit lacking the strong comfort factor of that model.
(Image credit: Future)
In my testing, which included PC and mobile games like Final Fantasy 14 Online, RoboCop: Rogue City, and Zenless Zone Zero, I found the Nitro to be perfectly suitable for a variety of genres. It was also impressively responsive when used wirelessly over Bluetooth connection on mobile. I’d still argue that the best mobile controllers are better suited to gaming on the go, but the Nitro is serviceable in this regard.
The big sticking point for me - besides the lack of 2.4GHz connectivity - is that the Nitro relies on AA batteries for power. While not entirely unheard of in the present day (it’s also the default option for the Xbox Wireless Controller), I much prefer having a built-in battery that can charge up via USB-C.
Acer claims you’ll get up to 25 hours of battery life (as it did with the Predator), but this will naturally vary depending on the brand. With the included Energizer batteries, I managed to get around 15-20 hours of play.
Should I buy the Acer Nitro NGR300?
Buy it if...
You have an abundance of AA batteries lying around On average, the Nitro’s battery life is actually quite decent, lasting longer than some models including the 8BitDo Ultimate C. If you regularly use AA batteries for various devices and have a lot of them, then the Acer Nitro is a decent pickup.
Don't buy it if...
You’d prefer a controller with more modern features The Acer Nitro lacks several features we take for granted today, such as Hall effect sticks, remappable buttons, Switch / console compatibility, a built-in charging solution, or 2.4GHz connectivity.
Also consider...
Not sold on the Acer Nitro NGR300? There are at least a couple of better and more affordable alternatives out there, such as…
Horipad Turbo A solid alternative to the Acer Nitro that offers most of its features for less. You’re getting a Turbo button here and, while not wireless, has Nintendo Switch compatibility and comes in a range of fun designs.
GameSir Nova Lite Simply one of the best budget controllers on the market today. The Nova Lite offers a range of connection types as well as Hall effect thumbsticks, a beautiful design and Switch compatibility alongside mobile and PC.
Tested for 15-20 hours (the time it took for the AA batteries to run out of juice)
Tested across PC and mobile games
Compared to the GameSir Nova Lite and Horipad Turbo
I tested the Acer Nitro NGR300 controller over a period of about 15-20 hours in total, after which the included Energizer AA batteries ran out. I primarily played on PC, which is its primary platform, having been unable to connect the controller to my Nintendo Switch. That said, Acer does not list the Switch as a supported platform, but as a Bluetooth device, I figured it was worth a try.
I compared my time with the Acer Nitro to that of its companion controller, the Acer Predator, as well as the GameSir Nova Lite and Horipad Turbo - all three of which I ended up preferring over this model. That’s due to a range of factors, including better features, compatibility, and connectivity options being available in the competition.
The Logitech G Pro Racing Wheel is an officially licensed, direct drive, 11Nm force feedback-enabled racing wheel that comes in variants compatible with Xbox One, Xbox Series X|S, PlayStation 5, PlayStation 4, and PC. For this review, I've been testing the PlayStation model.
Designed for serious sim racing, it combines extreme analog fidelity with rock-solid build quality and easy-to-reach button placement compared to the previous model, the Logitech G923. In use, the experience is enhanced through mechanical feedback not just from your virtual wheels, but from your engine too, thanks to Logitech's Trueforce technology, absolutely transforming games like Gran Turismo 7 and EA Sports WRC.
The wheel is not compatible with every racing game, and while it does feature a G923 compatibility mode for slightly older games, it can still be a pain getting it to work properly with PC games like rFactor 2. What isn't a pain, however, is setting it up for console play, with supreme plug-and-play simplicity on PS5, boosted further by an excellent attachable desk clamp for those lacking a full sim rig.
With gorgeous build quality, noticeably quiet running, and thumb-risking force feedback strength, this is a recommended solution for a console sim racer, just as long as you've got pockets deep enough to at least get the Pro pedals with it.
(Image credit: Future)
Logitech G Pro Racing Wheel: Price and availability
List price:$999.99 / £999.99 / AU$1,799.95
A PC-only version is available for $749.99 / £799 (around AU$1,630)
Logitech offers regional discounts when bundled with related products
The Logitech G Pro Racing Wheel has been available since September 21, 2022, costing a shade under $1,000 / £1,000, and that's just for the wheel alone. You'll need to pair it with the Pro Racing Pedals for about $350 / £350, plus you might need a sequential shifter and/or handbrake too (plus a frame to mount it all to) if you're really serious about sim racing. However, while all direct drive wheels are expensive, Logitech's force feedback here is noticeably stronger and has greater fidelity than, for instance, MOZA's PC-only, entry-level DD offering, which offers 5Nm for the base model.
Logitech's baby is also cheaper than Fanatec's flagship DD wheelbase, the Podium Wheel. You could also argue nobody really needs 25Nm of torque like Fanatec offers; 5Nm is plenty for a good racing feel, and the Logitech Pro Racing Wheel offers more than double that, at 11Nm, as well as advanced features like a quick-release system for changing wheel rims and a small built-in screen for adjusting wheel settings on the fly. So while it doesn't have the physical grunt of the best on the market, it's more than enough for what you'll need and the build quality and realistic feedback are worthy of the price, even if it would be more of a no-brainer if it were some £200 / $200 cheaper.
Logitech G Pro Racing Wheel: Specs
Logitech G Pro Racing Wheel: Design and features
New 'thumb sweep' button orientation
Two dials plus left digital thumbstick
Modular design for desk clamp
The wheel rim itself is not dissimilar to the outgoing G923 it replaces, however the button placement has been optimized. X and Triangle are a little bit of a stretch with your thumb tips when the wheel is held in the racing style 9 o'clock / 3 o'clock position, but L2 and R2 are easily reachable.
The share and menu buttons don't require your hands to leave the wheel to reach them, though they are tucked down further. They also flank the two dials, which are placed 90 degrees to each other, so one is best used with your left hand's fingers, while the other is best used with your right thumb. Both dials click in as additional 'push' buttons you can map in-game.
A particular standout feature is the removable logo plate at the bottom of the wheelbase, which can be replaced with the included desk clamp. Not all high-end sim racing wheels come with a desk clamp, but with the addition of two protruding flat-edged sections of plastic, the wheelbase grips any desk remarkably well.
(Image credit: Future)
So well, in fact, you can easily dial up the force feedback without any risk of it coming away and flapping about, destroying your desk and/or computer. It's very solid and an absolute joy to use with pedals under the desk, backed up against the wall so they don't skid as you fight against the loadcell brake pedal to get your car stopped for a hairpin.
In terms of comfort, the stitching on the rim does feel rough against your thumbs, especially when you've spent hours rallying with the force feedback strength turned up. Expect red palms and calluses if you're planning to fight the car through stages for hours. That aside, the wheel is a good size, feels like a premium product, and those magnetic shifters look, feel, and sound great.
You may be interested in getting a different rim (the wheel part you hold) at some point in the future because the included rim is a little plain compared to Fanatec's McLaren GT3 wheel, or Thrustmaster's Ferrari SF1000, for example, the latter of which features a large, full-color display in its center.
This Logitech wheel doesn't even have any lights on the rim itself, let alone a screen for data. It's just a high-quality steering wheel with great control layout and feel. Logitech does have more rims coming to take advantage of that quick-release system, but nothing obviously electronics-heavy has been shown yet.
(Image credit: Future)
Logitech G Pro Racing Wheel: Performance
Surprisingly quiet operation
Super smooth force feedback
Incredibly low latency
If you've used strong force feedback wheels in the past, you might be used to quite a lot of noise from the motor and the fans. However, neither phenomenon is exhibited here. There is a fan inside to keep the feedback motor cool, and naturally, that will be needed the longer you use it and the higher the strength is set. But it wasn't noticeable at any point of my playtest, and you're not blasted with weird-smelling air like you are with some other wheelbases, which is very welcome.
As for the force feedback itself, you don't get the 'cogging' feeling of a belt-driven system where the teeth connect unevenly with the belt; instead, you simply feel strong forces pulling against your hands. It's brilliantly done. Trundle down a straight and you'll feel the slight grain of the asphalt, drive down a muddy lane and you'll feel every bump. And hitting a high curb gives you a real kickback through your hands.
But perhaps the best use of the feedback tech is how it feels to rev your rally car on the startline of EA Sports WRC. You'll swear there's an engine under your palms. It's beautifully done.
(Image credit: Future)
But what also stands out is just how responsive it all is. Waggle the steering wheel and your on-screen hands match your movements incredibly quickly, looking like 1:1 movement in some situations, with just the merest hint of latency if you see-saw the wheel quickly while using a PC monitor.
It's among the best I've ever seen and feels ultra-responsive as a result. Logitech's Trueforce technology makes supported games feel remarkable just to feel the car in motion, even when you're not turning.
There really isn't much more the wheel could do to make you feel like you're in contact with a real road. It's superb. And if you find these environmental effects too bitty, there are smoothing options and most games even let you reduce or disable track effects. However you want your racing to feel, it can likely be done with this wheel.
Should I buy the Logitech G Pro Racing Wheel?
Buy it if...
You play serious racing games but prefer to do it on console If you just want the absolute best-feeling console racing experience and balk at PC gaming's tendency towards tinkering, this is absolutely for you. It just works brilliantly.
You don't have a racing seat/frame so need to mount your wheel to a desk The included desk clamp and base design is so good, that it arguably feels as good as a bucket seat frame rig if you're in a comfortable office chair.
Don't buy it if...
You're on a budget This is seriously expensive stuff and don't forget you need to buy the pedals too. Cheaper wheels do offer force feedback effects that push against your hands as you bump into cars etc. so you don't need to spend as much as the price of a real-life second-hand car.
You want to buy just one wheel for all your consoles This wheel only comes in PlayStation/PC, Xbox/PC, or PC-only flavors. You can't just use a different rim for Xbox like you can with some other brands' PlayStation wheelbases, like Fanatec.
Also consider...
Not sure whether you should drop so much on a flagship wheel? Here’s how it compares to two cheaper, but still great alternatives.
Thrustmaster T598 This Thrustmaster wheel is compatible with PS5/PS4 and PC and is the current best entry point into direct drive sim racing on console. 5Nm is often said to be the sweet spot for force feedback strength, so while it isn't as strong as others on the market, the smooth, 'cogless' feel of this wheel provides a similar experience but at about half the price. It is comparatively plasticky, but if you want premium materials, you'll need to pay a premium price.
Logitech G923 This is a great alternative for PlayStation 5 and PlayStation 4 gamers becauseit's so much cheaper - and even comes with decent pedals - yet still features Logitech's TrueForce technology. It isn't Direct Drive, however, and the comparatively paltry 2.3Nm of force isn't going to jump out of your hands through brute strength, but even so you will enjoy a precise and dynamic sim racing experience without breaking the bank.
How I tested the Logitech G Pro Racing Wheel for PlayStation
100% completed My First Gran Turismo and played several other racing sims on PS5
Moved over to PC to test rFactor 2, Dirt Rally 2.0, Project CARS 3 and more
Played with an at-desk clamp and monitor setup, and also a full racing seat frame with Viewsonic ultra-wide gaming monitor
I tested the Logitech G Pro Racing Wheel for a week across several racing sims on PS5 and PC, including EA Sports WRC, F1 23 and F1 24, Dirt Rally 2.0, Gran Turismo 7, My First Gran Turismo, and rFactor 2, among others. Completing My First Gran Turismo from scratch to 100% was an absolute blast since you can feel everything the car is doing.
I mounted the wheel to a racing seat and played using a ViewSonic VP3881A 38-inch IPS WQHD+ ultrawide monitor for wonderfully immersive PC racing. I also mounted it to a desk and played on a 32-inch 4K Samsung R550UQP monitor using a launch model PS5, as well as with a Dell Nvidia RTX 2070-enabled gaming laptop.
I also tried playing less serious games like Disney Speedstorm (which didn't recognize the wheel at all on PS5) and the amazing New Star GP, which you can drive to some extent, but can't do the pit stops since the left stick isn't analog. But the most fun of all was undoubtedly EA Sports WRC on PS5, which feels like it was made specifically for this wheel.
Thrustmaster is arguably at the top of its game when it comes to flight sticks, so it’s perhaps not all that surprising that the company is now making a play for space sim gear.
The Sol-R range has a cute name, but don’t let that fool you – this is a serious stick (or pair thereof) for anyone who spends plenty of time in the hour-devouring black mass of titles like Elite Dangerous.
If you’re not playing a whole lot of space games, it might not appeal, and the taller and more integrated nature of the Thrustmaster F/A-18 Super Hornet would still be our pick for the best flight stick. Still, if what you’re playing has a whole host of fiddly toggles, mapping those to the Sol-R’s array of switches, buttons, and dials feels like magic.
Ahead of the launch, it’s worth noting that things aren’t quite dialed in, so for the time being, you can expect to spend plenty of time tweaking buttons and mapping, but if that’s what you’re looking for in your next voyage, this is a great place to start around the $200/£200 mark – at least sort of.
I was sent the Duo pack which includes both Sol-R sticks for the right-hand and left-hand, which will cost you considerably more ($389.99 or £299.99). Still, with each packing plenty of inputs, even a single stick could be ideal for your setup.
(Image credit: Future)
Price and availability
List price:$219.99 / £179.99, or $399.99 / £299.99 for the Duo
Available worldwide
Pre-orders open March 19, available April 16
While each stick in the Sol-R range will run you $219.99 / £179.99, they’re considerably cheaper than rivals like the Saitek Pro Flight, but a little more than Thrustmaster’s own T.Flight Hotas One.
You can preorder from March 19, and they’ll start shipping on April 16, 2025. While no throttle is included, you can use the Thrust sliders on the front of the base.
That pricing makes it a little more than the T-Flight Hotas One, which remains Thrustmaster’s entry-level model but doesn’t include as many buttons, switches, or LED lighting. In fact, it’s around a similar price to Turtle Beach’s VelocityOne which is relatively similar in terms of feature set.
Specs
(Image credit: Future)
Design and features
Plenty of customizable inputs
Flexibility of two sticks
Nice lighting
While I was sent the Sol-R stick’s ‘Duo’ configuration which includes two of the sticks and bases for use at the same time, anyone buying a single one is unlikely to feel short-changed.
Each stick screws on easily but securely to the base, but even before doing that, it’s worth taking in the base itself. Each one has eight buttons, two dials, a thrust slider (with accompanying lighting), and a quarter of switches.
Moving to the stick, there’s a subtle button near the base, and a main trigger at thumb rest height, with an additional one beyond that. Then there are two hat switches, two more buttons, and a thumbstick, all of which combine to make menu navigation much, much simpler.
Speaking of which, you can actually use the F/A-18C Hornet grip or the Viper Grip on the base, giving you plenty of flexibility with your setup.
The blue lighting around the base and top of the stick is a nice touch, too, adding to the futuristic, space travel feel.
There’s a pleasing resistance to the dials and thrust slider, but I do wish the stick didn’t quite wobble so much. The included stabilizers click on with ease and do a great job of minimizing the way the base tends to roll to each side, but it’s still not quite perfect in those intense dogfights.
Those dials aren’t just inputs, either. They’re actually used as modifiers, so you can trigger different effects for any button, trigger, or switch depending on which position they’re in. That makes 44 customizable inputs per stick.
If you’re a left-handed pilot and you’re not looking to invest in both sticks, there’s good news — you can swap the included ergonomic supports over to make the Sol-R ambidextrous. And, if you’re looking for the Z axes, you can find that by twisting the grip.
It’s also worth noting that I have relatively large hands, but the Sol-R fits in them nicely in both hands, with the thumb rest perfectly located.
(Image credit: Future)
Performance
Maps as ‘Generic stick’
Rewards tinkerers
T.A.R.G.E.T. download is still very much just for drivers
I wanted to put the Sol-R to the test with one of my favorite games in Elite Dangerous. While I did test with more traditional flight sims, Elite is a game that’s about exploring space in your own way, meaning it’s a great way to test out everything from dogfighting to space cargo hauling.
It’s also the kind of game that the Sol-R was built for, with a whole host of controls to tweak and map — and therein lies the rub.
Because the Sol-R, at least in its pre-launch stage, is identified in compatible games as a ‘Generic Joystick’, you can expect to do a lot of customization to get it just right in your game of choice. Elite recognized both sticks, for example, but I had to manually map each button.
That might be something that’ll be ironed out at launch, but on the plus side, it does give you scope to tweak as you see fit. In my testing, I got to a really great spot where the thrust slider adjusted my speed, while the variety of buttons switched power to various systems on my virtual ship.
(Image credit: Future)
The hat switch and scroll wheel allowed me to check in-game messages and I could use the toggle switches for landing gear. Is that the kind of thing I’d have painstakingly done if the setup defaulted to a “good enough” button mapping layout? It’s hard to say.
For flight sims, it performs admirably, too. The sheer number of buttons is like a blank canvas for the likes of Microsoft Flight Simulator so you can set a button for your altimeter, anti-ice and more, and the fact the Sol-R appears as a generic stick means you can tailor it just like any other.
I also played Star Wars Squadrons, but the game doesn’t really need many inputs so it was actually more enjoyable with a single stick. Pulling off tight turns and loops did serve to highlight that wobbliness of the base, though.
Thrustmaster’s T.A.R.G.E.T. software is still pretty rudimentary, and while you can download presets, that wasn’t available for the Sol-R ahead of launch — but I’m curious to see how players adjust to the tools on offer. T.A.R.G.E.T. really just acts to get your drivers installed otherwise, and to its credit, it’s a simple, centralized hub for everything Thrustmaster.
Unlike the T.Flight HOTAS One, the Sol-R 1 is sadly PC only — so you won’t be able to use it on your PS5 or Xbox console.
Should I buy the Thrustmaster Sol-R?
Buy it if...
You’re big on space sims For this price, even the single stick will give you a fantastic space sim experience, juggling comfort with a whole host of input options.
You’re patient With the button remapping, you’ll get out of the Sol-R what you put in, meaning you can make it feel like a stick (or pair of sticks) entirely bespoke to your use case.
Don't buy it if...
You’re looking for a more stable flight stick The Sol-R comes with stabilizers for the corners, but if you’re dogfighting, you might find your stick moving all over the place even with those fitted.
Also consider
Still not sold on the Thrustmaster Sol-R 1? Here’s how it compares to two similar products.
Turtle Beach VelocityOne Turtle Beach’s VelocityOne is arguably the closest rival to the Sol-R, mainly because it offers a great stick experience flanked by additional inputs. It has a similar build quality, too, but you don’t get the flexibility of adding a second stick.
Thrustmaster T Flight Hotas One T Flight HOTAS is still close to the gold standard for new flyers, offering a comfortable stick with a detachable throttle — all at a great price. It’s also ideal for console gamers that play on Xbox.
Tested using Elite Dangerous, Star Wars Squadrons, and Microsoft Flight Simulator 2024
I spent the majority of my time (around 15 hours testing) with Elite Dangerous, simply because it has such a vast array of things that can be triggered by the Sol-R inputs.
I also had a blast blowing away TIE Fighters in Star Wars Squadrons, and also taking on some transatlantic flights in Microsoft Flight Simulator 2024 — but it feels best for an open-ended experience like Elite Dangerous where you can engage with an array of systems with the huge number of input options.
I tested on my gaming PC rig where I recently tested the F/A-18 stick and Viper TQS mission pack, as well as the T.Flight HOTAS One.
It’s hard to find good Nintendo Switch controllers at the $30 / £30 price mark. Typically, budget gamepads around this point simply don’t feel all that great to play with and often have a build quality that leaves a lot to be desired. That’s why I’ve been pleasantly surprised by the Horipad Turbo, a budget Switch controller that certainly has some of the hallmarks of a cheap pad, but manages to make up for it in other key areas.
Obviously, some compromises have been made to keep costs low. The Horipad Turbo does feel lightweight and somewhat hollow in the hands. It’s a strictly wired controller and doesn’t offer arguably basic features like gyro aiming, vibration, or remappable rear buttons. I’m also not the biggest fan of its simple, mushy D-pad.
But the Horipad Turbo gets most other things right where it counts. Its thumbsticks and buttons all feel great, and its satisfying-to-press digital triggers are perfectly suited for the best Nintendo Switch games. The titular Turbo function also works very well and is quite robust with three distinct input settings.
Throw in options for officially licensed liveries inspired by Super Mario and The Legend of Zelda series, and it’s clear that a lot of thought and care has gone into making the Horipad Turbo an attractive budget option. If you’re interested in purchasing a new Nintendo Switch controller, then, but don’t have the funds to splash out on the likes of the Nintendo Switch Pro Controller or 8BitDo Ultimate, I highly recommend checking out the Horipad Turbo instead.
(Image credit: Future)
Horipad Turbo: Price and availability
$29.99 / £29.99
Available in three colorways
UK availability appears to be very limited
The Horipad Turbo is available to purchase for $29.99 / £29.99. In the US, it’s available on Hori’s own website as well as Amazon. Unfortunately, it’s much more difficult to track down in the UK. Here, Hori’s website doesn’t currently have any stock, and listings at retailers like Amazon are limited (though often come in well under the retail price).
Three distinct colorways are available for the Horipad Turbo. There is a standard black version, as well as fancier liveries for The Legend of Zelda and Super Mario. These don’t cost any extra, either, so you’re free to pick one that best suits your tastes without making a bigger dent in your wallet.
Before you do decide to pull the trigger, though, I would also recommend you check out the GameSir Nova Lite. This controller comes in at $24.99 / £29.99 and is more widely available in both regions. It also has some key upgrades over the Horipad Turbo, including Hall effect sticks and wireless connectivity. It still lacks gyro aiming, however.
Horipad Turbo: Specs
(Image credit: Future)
Horipad Turbo: Design and features
Lightweight build, but certainly not uncomfortable
Standard asymmetrical layout like the Switch Pro Controller
Overly mushy-feeling D-pad
The Horipad Turbo very much comes as advertised (well, apart from one particular thing that I’ll touch on in the performance section below). The box contains the wired controller, an instruction booklet and that’s it. No fancy extras like swappable thumbsticks, carry cases, or all that jazz. But this is to be expected for a gamepad that’s firmly placed in the budget price bracket.
The controller itself certainly has a budget, plastic feel, and it’s extremely lightweight. As a result, it feels almost listless in the hands. However, this isn’t to say holding the controller is unpleasant. While it lacks textured grips a la the Nintendo Switch Pro Controller, it’s comfortable enough and easy to keep a firm grip on while you play.
Sticks and face buttons both feel great to use and the bumpers, while a little chunky for my tastes, are still adequate. The digital ZL and ZR triggers are the real stars of the show, with an immediate press that’s perfect for the vast majority of the first-party Nintendo Switch game library.
(Image credit: Future)
The clue’s in the name when it comes to the Horipad Turbo’s key feature. Its Turbo functionality allows for rapid inputs simply by holding down the button it’s assigned to.
To do this, simply hold the Turbo button in the center of the gamepad, followed by your face button of choice. There are options for 5, 10, and 20 inputs per second. So it’s a great fit for simpler, arcade-like titles you might find within the Nintendo Switch Online retro libraries. Prefer being able to quickfire projectiles in games like Blaster Master and Super R-Type? The Turbo button can help shave some of that difficulty off while keeping your thumb thoroughly blister-free.
The controller’s 10ft (3m) cable is industry standard, but as it’s non-braided it did tend to coil up more than I’d like. The D-pad is also a real letdown here. For one, it’s really thin, making diagonal inputs a touch harder than they need to be. It also feels very mushy to press, leading to a pretty unsatisfying gameplay experience. Stick to those analog sticks for movement if you can.
Horipad Turbo: Performance
Perfectly responsive across all fronts
Works on PC as well as Nintendo Switch
Missing features include rumble and gyro aiming
The Horipad Turbo is compatible primarily with the Nintendo Switch and Nintendo Switch OLED models. You won’t get PlayStation or Xbox functionality here, but the controller is compatible with PC. This is not mentioned on Hori’s website or on the box itself, but I was able to hook the controller up to my PC via USB and it worked there without issue.
(Image credit: Future)
That said, I think the Horipad Turbo is a better fit for the Switch, and not just because of those officially licensed liveries. It’s got the Switch’s ‘reversed’ face button layout (with X/Y and A/B swapped from the typical XInput layout) and its digital triggers are perfect for a game library where pressure-sensitive triggers are never really required.
As a result, it’s a great fit for several games that I tested, including Super Mario Odyssey, Mario Kart 8 Deluxe, and The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom - all games where quick trigger presses are utilized regularly. Though when it came to both Zelda and Splatoon 3, I certainly did lament the lack of gyro aiming here. The fact there’s no rumble, while less of a dealbreaker overall, is also a shame.
Should I buy the Horipad Turbo?
Buy it if...
You’re on a tight budget The Horipad Turbo is one of the most affordable Nintendo Switch controller options that, similar to the GameSir Nova Lite, I can actually recommend thanks to its overall strong performance despite some middling build quality.
You prefer more precise trigger presses The Horipad Turbo’s digital triggers are a blessing on Switch, and I much prefer them over the more traditional analog triggers you find on most controllers.
Don't buy it if...
You’re a Splatoon 3 player One of the most unfortunate omissions here is the lack of gyro aiming. You can of course use the analog sticks for aiming in Splatoon 3, but do you really want to do that?
You were hoping for more features Even more recent controllers at a similar price like the GameSir Nova Lite have the Horipad Turbo beat on features, like offering Hall effect sticks and wireless connectivity.View Deal
Also consider...
The Horipad Turbo is a solid controller, but if you’re after a new Nintendo Switch gamepad you may also wish to consider these budget-friendly alternatives.
GameSir Nova Lite My favorite budget Nintendo Switch pad offers drift-resistant Hall effect thumbsticks and wireless connectivity with up to 15 hours of battery life. It’s technically an upgrade when compared to the Horipad Turbo, offering several customization options via its multifunction button. It doesn’t have Turbo functionality, though, on top of missing out on gyro aiming.
8BitDo Ultimate C Another incredibly budget-friendly controller, it carries on the brand’s tradition of having excellent build quality despite the low price.
Compared and contrasted mainly with the GameSir Nova Lite
I tested the Horipad Turbo for this review for roughly a week. During that time I tried the gamepad with a range of top Nintendo Switch games, including Mario Kart 8 Deluxe, Super Mario Odyssey, Astral Chain, and The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom. I also put the Turbo button through its paces by playing a variety of fitting retro titles on Nintendo Switch Online. These included Blaster Master, Ninja Gaiden, Mario Party 3, and Super R-Type.
I also spent some time comparing the Horipad Turbo to what I feel is its closest budget equivalent - the GameSir Nova Lite. I do prefer GameSir’s controller, owing to its Hall effect sticks and wireless connectivity options. But the Horipad Turbo isn’t far off, with similar build quality and a nice Turbo button addition. Both controllers lack gyro aiming, though, which is a bit of a shame.
The SteelSeries Stratus Duo is a compact wireless controller compatible with PC, Android, Chromebook and some VR headsets, thanks to its multiple connectivity modes.
It adopts a rather classic design, reminiscent of Xbox and PlayStation controllers, although it has a smaller, thinner form factor. The total black colorway is rather austere, and the lack of any RGB lighting is a departure from many gaming peripherals.
Compared to many of the best PC controllers around, the layout itself feels quite small in the hand. This makes all buttons easy to reach, especially the shoulder buttons, which are also favorably angled to decrease the amount of finger flexing required.
The build quality feels high all round, with the buttons satisfyingly damped, especially the bumpers, which are perhaps the standout in this regard. However, the LED light bar is roughly finished around the edges, which is a surprise given SteelSeries usual attention to detail.
The Stratus Duo feels great to game with. Its buttons are snappy and responsive, and the triggers and joysticks are precise with plenty of feel. Additionally, the D-pad is accurate and easy to use, although its proximity to the left joystick and sharp edges may prove irksome for some. However, these are minor gripes with what is otherwise a high-performing controller.
Connecting the Stratus Duo to a PC wirelessly was easy, requiring no setup other than plugging in the 2.4GHz USB dongle. It was just as responsive as when connecting using the included USB cable (which, amazingly, uses the micro USB standard, rather than USB-C). Bluetooth connection to Android devices also proved easy, stable and lag-free.
Battery life on the Stratus Duo is also good, in line with the 20-hour claim SteelSeries makes. However, its charging time of about two and a half hours is less than impressive.
The Stratus Duo competes with other popular controllers in terms of price. It has the edge over those controllers thanks to its multiple connectivity and compatibility options, although the lack of customization is a drawback. Ultimately, it may come down to hand size, as the compact layout may exclude those with larger hands, who will likely be better off with the Xbox Wireless Controller, for instance. For everyone else, though, the Stratus Duo is a competent controller with great performance.
(Image credit: Future)
SteelSeries Stratus Duo review: price and availability
$59 / £64 / AU$105
Available now
Black colorway only
The Stratus Duo costs $59 / £64 / AU$105 and is available now in one colorway: black. The SteelSeries SmartGrip, an attachment for holding an Android smartphone, is sold separately and costs £9.99.
At this price, it’s up against the Xbox Wireless Controller, one of the best PC controllers and best Xbox controllers around. It does have more connectivity options than the Xbox controller, though, as well as a rechargeable battery as standard.
Although it’s compatible with various platforms, it doesn’t officially work with PlayStation, Xbox, or Nintendo Switch consoles. If you’re after one of the best PS5 controllers, then the PlayStation DualSense controller is top of the class, and the 8BitDo Ultimate is one of the best Nintendo Switch controllers in our view. Both of these aren’t much more expensive than the Stratus Pro.
SteelSeries Stratus Duo review: specs
(Image credit: Future)
SteelSeries Stratus Duo review: design and features
Compact form factor
Finely damped buttons
No software
The Stratus Duo sports an all-black color scheme with an angular design that looks somewhere between an Xbox controller and a PlayStation DualSense, although it’s thinner and lighter than either of those.
It’s also more compact in its layout, with all its buttons relatively close together. The grips are more prominent too, meaning you can really wrap your fingers around them.
The shoulder buttons angle downwards more than on other controllers, which is a welcome feature and makes reaching for them much more comfortable, as well as being easier to press, as less finger bending is required.
Adopting the same schema as the Xbox, the Stratus Duo's buttons position Y and A top and bottom respectively, and X and B on the left and right. Although the buttons themselves are black like the rest of the Stratus Duo, there is a handy color key between the buttons – again mimicking the Xbox standard – although this is quite small and hard to parse in the heat of the moment if you need to look down to check.
The construction feels solid, with nicely damped buttons that are satisfying to press, especially the bumpers, which are far better to use than those on the Xbox controller. All buttons are also tightly fitted with very little play. One strange area where SteelSeries seems to have dropped the ball, though, is the plastic around the LED bars, as my unit appeared to show signs of fraying, which is not what you’d expect from a SteelSeries product.
Another baffling design choice is the fact that the Stratus Duo uses a micro USB port rather than the now ubiquitous USB-C. Thankfully, a cable is included, but considering most of the world has left the micro USB standard behind, it’s a bizarre decision.
What’s more, the Stratus Duo can’t be customized or tinkered with using SteelSeries’ GG software, which does feel like a missed opportunity, even at this price point. Even the Xbox Wireless Controller allows for some degree of remapping, but there’s none of that here with the Stratus Duo.
(Image credit: Future)
SteelSeries Stratus Duo review: performance
Responsive buttons
Precise joysticks and triggers
Easy connectivity
Gaming with the Stratus Duo is a mostly positive experience. It feels comfortable in the hands, largely thanks to the ergonomic grip design, and the aforementioned compact layout makes every button easy to reach.
The joysticks are precise and offer enough grip without getting sticky to the touch, as those on other controllers are prone to. And while both sticks are relatively close together, I didn’t experience any issue with my two thumbs clashing.
The triggers are also great to use, offering plenty of control and feedback without being too weighty. This allows for precise inputs, very useful in racing games for subtle throttle control, despite not having as much travel as other controller triggers, such as those on the Xbox controller and the DualSense.
The D-pad is quick and easy to use, amenable to rolling in multiple directions, which is largely thanks to the long four-way prongs. Despite all directions being housed within a single unit – as opposed to having entirely separate buttons for each direction – I didn’t experience any mispresses.
However, the edges of the D-pad are quite sharp, which can be irritating after long sessions, and the aforementioned compact layout also meant that I sometimes knocked the left analog stick when making fast and frantic presses.
The inputs themselves are very responsive when using wirelessly with the included 2.4GHz dongle. Connecting via this method was a simple case of plug and play, and I experienced no issues with lag or stability.
The same is true when connecting via Bluetooth to Android devices. There’s a simple toggle switch on top for Bluetooth and 2.4GHz modes, and a pairing button should you need it. I also didn’t notice any discernable difference in lag between using Bluetooth and the 2.4GHz dongle.
SteelSeries claims a battery life of over 20 hours for the Stratus Duo. Although I wasn’t able to reach its limits during my time with it, I can say that it barely dipped after several days of use. It took around two and a half hours to charge from empty to full, which isn’t a stellar performance; thankfully, you can charge and play at the same time.
(Image credit: Future)
Should I buy the SteelSeries Stratus Duo?
Buy it if...
You want to connect to other devices As well as PC, the Stratus Duo is compatible with Android devices, thanks to its Bluetooth capability. It’s also compatible with Chromebooks and certain VR headsets.
You want a compact controller The Stratus Pro is smaller than other popular controllers, with a more compressed layout, so its great for those who really want to get a handle on their pad.
Don't buy it if...
You want to play on console Despite strong compatibility for some devices, it misses out on console play, with Xbox, PlayStation and Switch all excluded.
You have large hands That reduced form factor may be a problem for those with larger hands, and I did experience some clashing between the D-pad and left stick in use.
Also consider...
SteelSeries Stratus Duo review: also consider
Microsoft Xbox Wireless Controller The standard bearer and our pick as the best controller for PC, The Xbox Wireless Controller does most things well. It connects to many devices, thanks to its Bluetooth and wired capabilities. However, there are few missteps, such as the lack of a rechargeable battery as standard, and customization is limited.
PlayStation DualSense Wireless Controller If you’re in the market for a controller to use on PlayStation, then the DualSense Wireless Controller is certainly one of the best PS5 controllers in our view. It also works with many PC games, and can connect wired or wirelessly. The only real drawbacks are its weak battery life and mic quality.
I tested the Stratus Duo for several days and used it to play games on PC and on Android.
I played a variety of titles, designed to test each aspect of the Stratus Duo: I played Tekken 8 to test its responsiveness and D-pad ability, Assetto Corsa to test the precision of the triggers and analog sticks, and Call of Duty: Mobile to see how well the Stratus Duo handles Android games over Bluetooth.
In over 25 years of gaming I have used a large number of first- and third-party controllers for PC, Xbox, Nintendo and PlayStation. I have also reviewed many gaming peripherals, including other controllers, mice, and keyboards.
Thrustmaster F/A-18 Super Hornet: One-minute review
If you’ve read our Thrustmaster Viper TQS Mission Pack review, you’ll know that flight sim tech is getting closer than ever to turning your setup into something plucked right from a fighter jet.
The Thrustmaster F/A-18 Super Hornet follows on that same line of thinking, dovetailing beautifully with its sister product while offering a fantastic flight stick in its own right, packed with input options and plenty of settings to tweak the game feel to your liking.
It’s ludicrously expensive, though. The review unit we’re testing is formed of multiple modular sections, with the company’s AVA base, a flight stick, and a base plate. These all combine in a nifty bundle for $579 / £450 (cheaper than buying them piecemeal) but it’s definitely an investment for a flight enthusiast.
It’s still hard not to be impressed. It’s a hefty stick, one that would feel right at home doing loop-de-loops in the sky, and it’s absolutely packed with inputs with switches, buttons, and triggers all over it.
If you’re looking to take your flight sim experience to new heights, it’s hard to look past, but don’t forget that the HOTAS X is a much more affordable, entry-level model that comes with a throttle – something the F/A-18 Super Hornet doesn’t have in the box.
(Image credit: Future)
Thrustmaster F/A-18 Super Hornet: Price and availability
List price:$579 / £450
Available worldwide
Offered in parts but this bundle is much cheaper
If you do want to pick up each part of the setup we’re testing here for the Thrustmaster F/A-18 Super Hornet, you can expect to spend a fair amount more, with just the baseplate alone coming in at $25 / £25.
That makes the bundle the way to go, and thankfully it’s easy to put together. It took me around five minutes to get everything hooked up, and the weight is a dead giveaway that it’s built to last, weighing in at 7.6lbs / 3.5kg once it’s put together.
The bundle includes the offset adapter, too, letting you tweak the angle at which the stick rests, either for realism or just for comfort.
Thrustmaster F/A-18 Super Hornet: Specs
Thrustmaster F/A-18 Super Hornet: Design and features
The base plate could do with better feet
Feels great to use
Satisfying inputs
As with the Viper TQS Mission Pack, it’s hard not to be in awe of the Thrustmaster F/A-18 Super Hornet once you unbox it.
It’s easy to put together, with a few screws attaching the AVA base to the base plate, and the stick basically screws on without any strenuous effort. It’s really easy to get started, too, since you just need to plug in your USB-C cable (included in the box) and you’re away.
Compared to the T Flight HOTAS I’ve been using for years, there’s a real weight to any movement on the Thrustmaster F/A-18 Super Hornet, and it makes flying feel more authentic as a result.
Button-wise, there’s a trio of hat switches. Two are at the top, while one rests under your thumb, and if the game you’re playing supports all of them you’ll have more buttons than you know what to do with. Two are four-way, while another is eight-way, and combined with physical buttons you have a whopping 19 on a stick that really doesn’t waste any space at all.
Everything feels great to press, and there’s enough effort needed to hit things like the rear buttons so that you won’t find yourself accidentally hitting them too often.
Special props should be given to the trigger, too, which registers full pulls and half pulls if your game supports that, and always feels great to pull whether you’re playing something more grounded or more fantastical.
(Image credit: Future)
Thrustmaster F/A-18 Super Hornet: Performance
Plug and play
Customizable innards
T.A.R.G.E.T. software is basically just for drivers
As with the Viper, Thrustmaster recommends using its T.A.R.G.E.T. software, but you can really just use it for the drivers and little else. I found everything was detected nicely in Windows’ own control panel for input devices, and that was a better spot for quick testing of deadzones and the like.
Flight sim fans may lean on it for preloading layouts built to approximate real flight controls, but as I’ve mentioned before, I fancy myself more of a Han Solo than an airline pilot, and the Thrustmaster F/A-18 Super Hornet helps fulfill those dogfighting dreams wonderfully - once you map controls.
If you’re using this and the Viper, games should switch to make the latter the secondary input, but it’s worth noting I ran into some bother as certain games mapped functions to the Thrustmaster F/A-18 Super Hornet that it doesn’t have access to, leading to a bizarre endless spin in the likes of Elite Dangerous and Star Wars: Squadrons. Remapping buttons did the trick, but if you’re worried you’ve got a dodgy unit, rest assured it’s a minor issue.
That aside, both games feel great when using the Thrustmaster F/A-18 Super Hornet. (Intentional) barrel rolls and locking onto TIE Fighters became second nature, even without using the Viper, and I found myself tinkering with the inner chassis just to get things dialed in.
The AVA base can be opened up with ease, letting discerning pilots adjust resistance, travel, and more. It’s easily done and adds a level beyond simple button remapping that experts will no doubt have an awful lot of fun with.
In fact, the only real complaint is that in the heat of the moment, as I pulled back on the stick, I found the feet on the baseplate didn’t give quite as much resistance as I had hoped. That could be down to me and having a relatively smooth-feeling desk, but it’s something to consider.
(Image credit: Future)
Should I buy the Thrustmaster F/A-18 Super Hornet?
Buy it if...
You’re a flying enthusiast The price of admission is high, but this weighty stick has everything you could need for just about any flying title.
You’re a tinkerer Digital aviation experts will no doubt delight in customizing the inner workings of the Thrustmaster F/A-18 Super Hornet.
Don't buy it if...
You’re on a budget Sadly, it’s not the cheapest stick around, making it likely to be out of the reach for more casual flying fans.
Also consider...
Still not sold on the Thrustmaster F/A-18 Super Hornet? Here’s how it compares to two similar products.
Turtle Beach VelocityOne As we mentioned in our Viper review, Turtle Beach’s VelocityOne is a slick stick (say that ten times, quickly), with an OLED display and a comfortable stick with plenty of inputs. It’s not as weighty, though, which makes it feel less premium.
Logitech T Flight Hotas One Our trusty fallback, the T Flight HOTAS remains a very comfortable stick with a throttle included, all for less than half the price of the F/A-18 Super Hornet. It works on Xbox One and Series X|S consoles as well.
Tested with Elite Dangerous, Star Wars Squadrons, and Microsoft Flight Simulator
I’ve been testing the Thrustmaster F/A-18 Super Hornet for a couple of months, but the aforementioned remapping issues meant things took a little longer to settle than I’d care to admit.
Once that was sorted, though, it was off to the races (or airport?). I tested it with Microsoft Flight Simulator for some trans-Atlantic trips, but as I mentioned above, I mostly used it for dogfighting in Star Wars Squadrons or hauling space cargo in Elite Dangerous.
