To coincide with the release of The Mandalorian’s third season, Astro has brought out a specially designed version of its all-star A30 mid-range gaming headset which takes many design cues from the Disney Plus show’s iconography.
While we’ve reviewed the standard version of the Astro A30 on PC, this time I’m reviewing it for the PS5, and it also works with Xbox Series X, too. If you’re a Star Wars fan then this can easily be considered one of the best PS5 headsets for its sound quality, construction, and style.
Price and Availability
The Astro A30 Mandalorian Edition comes in slightly more expensive than other color schemes of the gaming headset, and launched on February 28 mere days before The Mandalorian season 3 debuted on Disney Plus. You can get your hands on this themed variant for $249 / £249 / AU$469.95 in the US, the UK, and Australia respectively. That’s $20 / £20 / AU$40 more than the standard versions that currently ship in either White or Navy.
Design and Features
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The design is the obvious win for the Astro A30 Mandalorian Edition gaming headset. Fittingly, there’s a gray and black color scheme which appropriately matches Din Djarin’s Beskar armor. There’s also iconography that fans of the series like myself appreciate, such as the Mythosaur and a silhouette of Mando wielding the dark saber. Inside the ear cups is lore-accurate script, too.
It’s a beautiful design, I can’t fault that whatsoever, but I do wish that the Astro A30 Mandalorian Edition leaned a little further into the Beskar armor look with detailing based upon Djarin’s suit instead of the gun metal gray and black. As a more subtle decal, I think it’s really cool and sure to appeal to those who are into the character.
Cosmetic differences aside, this is the same all-star Astro A30 wireless gaming headset which launched back in October 2022. That means you can expect around 27 hours of playback through either Bluetooth or the included 2.4 GHz wireless receiver. My review unit is for the PS5 but this headset also works on Xbox Series X. There’s also the option of staying plugged in through the included 3.5mm and USB-C leads as well. You’re able to simultaneously connect to several devices at once, including your smartphone and best gaming consoles, too.
I like the ergonomic design of the Astro A30 Mandalorian Edition a lot. While the squared ear cups and detachable bulky microphone aren’t to my personal tastes, they feel great to wear for long periods of time. There’s memory foam in the earcups, and the headband itself is also padded for a premium feeling gaming headset on your head. The leatherette feels a little weird in the hand, but the materials are high quality here.
Performance
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The Astro A30 Mandalorian Edition gaming headset has quickly become one of my go-to models when playing some of the best PS5 games. In my testing I’ve found that the sound balancing has been incredibly warm and faithful, whether that was running through the claustrophobic corridors in Dead Space or riding through the roaming hills of Red Dead Redemption 2.
Thanks to having Bluetooth connectivity and a detachable boom microphone, the Astro A30 Mandalorian Edition can also act as dedicated headphones. While a far cry from the best headphones, this headset did a great job of bringing out the bass and the weight of heavier songs like Paradise Lost’s Darker Thoughts and rock tracks such as Ozzy Osbourne’s One of Those Days through the 40mm drivers. Alternative music seemed to really shine bright with Father John Misty’s Total Entertainment Forever coming through crystal clear with the acoustic guitar into the big band mix.
Even the best wireless gaming headsets have hit and miss microphones, but that’s thankfully not the case with the Astro A30 Mandalorian Edition. While I’m not a big fan of the flexible boom mic here, which tends to not hold its shape all too well, it does sound a cut above what many small-scale mics do in my testing. My voice came through clear when chatting to friends and making isolated records, but isn’t quite up to the same level as the Rode NTH-100M’s NTH mic.
Proving itself to be just as much substance as style, the Astro A30 Mandalorian Edition is an awesome looking and beautiful sounding gaming headset for your console of choice. While expensive, it’s something I can recommend based on its versatility alongside its looks.
Should I buy the Astro A30 Mandalorian Edition?
(Image credit: Future)
Buy it if…
You love The Mandalorian
With its Beskar armor color scheme and iconography, there’s a lot to love for the seasoned Star Wars fan here.
You want a versatile gaming headset
The Astro A30 Mandalorian Edition can be used on not only the PS5 and Xbox Series X but with a gaming PC and phone of choice thanks to its many connectivity options.
Don’t buy it if…
You don’t care about The Mandalorian
You’re paying around $20 / £20 /AU$40 more for the Star Wars show branding, so if you’re not a fan then you can save yourself money for the standard versions.
Honestly, I wish I was allowed to put more items in that ‘Pros’ list up there. The Framework Laptop Chromebook Edition (which, I will admit, is something of a mouthful) genuinely might be the best Chromebook I’ve ever reviewed. It’s beautiful. It’s perfect. It’s, uh… wait, it’s a thousand bucks?
Yes, the entry price is sure to make some folks’ wallets shrivel in horror, but don’t run for the hills just yet. That $999 price tag is still less than the HP Elite Dragonfly Chromebook that currently sits at the top of our carefully-curated best Chromebooks list - and while Framework’s entry doesn’t quite offer the same level of performance, it does plenty to justify the cost.
For those unfamiliar with Framework, it’s a company that specializes in ‘fixing’ consumer electronics - not physically repairing them but fixing the broken nature of our transient, wasteful consumption of technological goods. Hardware - in particular, laptops - is becoming less and less repairable and long-lasting. Planned obsolescence is a huge problem, with kit designed to essentially become redundant after just a few years so you’re forced to drop more cash on a newer model.
To hell with all that, says Framework - and I couldn’t agree more. Laptops should be user-repairable and user-upgradable; I should be able to crack open my MacBook Air to slap in a bigger drive, faster memory, or a new battery, not be beholden to the whims (and fees) of a teenaged Apple store ‘genius’.
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Back when we reviewed the original Windows-powered ‘DIY edition’ of the Framework Laptop, we praised its design, repairability, and performance - and I fully believe that Chrome OS is the perfect home for this sort of device.
Since it relies mainly on web apps and cloud computing, Chrome OS demands less system resources from your laptop, allowing Framework to outfit this Chromebook with a relatively tame Intel Core i5 CPU and 8GB of RAM. On a Windows laptop, I might look at those specs with that price tag and scoff; here, it makes a lot more sense. Sure, you’re still paying a hearty sum, but the Framework Laptop Chromebook Edition’s solid performance and unique features make it more than worth the money in my eyes.
In keeping with previous non-Chrome models (and Framework’s overall design ethos), this Chromebook is constructed and packaged using recycled materials, contains easily replaceable internal components, and - best of all - features hot-swappable ‘expansion cards’ that enable you to customize your laptop’s port selection in seconds.
I’m gonna say it: this is the future of laptops. Buy one, buy your kid one, buy your grandma one. I want Framework to succeed so badly; because we’re in a downward spiral of tech hardware consumption that’s only going to get worse for us all.
I don’t like doomsaying, but the numbers don’t lie. We now produce 50 million metric tons of e-waste annually - and a lot of that is down to laptops, tablets, and phones that (by design!) can’t be repaired by consumers. I hope that one day, all the best laptops will be like this one. It’s time for change. It’s time for Framework.
Framework Laptop Chromebook Edition review: Price and availability
Base price of $999 (around £800 / AU$1,500)
Expansion cards range from $9 to $149
Only available in the US at time of writing
I’m not going to claim that the Framework Chromebook is one of the best cheap laptops, although it does offer a lot for the asking price. $999 is fairly expensive for a Chromebook, no doubt. But with a 12th-gen Intel processor, 2K display, and generally solid construction, it’s already well on the way to marking itself as solid value for money.
Customizability is a big selling point here. I’ll get more into it later, but the upshot of the ‘expansion card’ system is that the Framework Laptop Chromebook Edition effectively has four Thunderbolt 4 ports - something that’s still missing from plenty of Chromebooks.
These cards vary in price from $9 for a simple USB-A or USB-C port to $149 for a hefty 1TB slot-in drive, which can be easily removed to take with you. You can buy them from Framework’s own online marketplace, along with a variety of other components for replacing or upgrading your laptop’s internals.
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As you’ll learn in the Design section further down, Framework hasn’t skimped on quality. In addition to Thunderbolt 4 support, we’ve got a Full HD webcam, the latest Wi-Fi 6E connectivity, and a robust brushed aluminum outer casing. It certainly feels the way a premium Chromebook should.
It’s worth noting that the Framework Laptop Chromebook Edition isn’t available outside the US at present, hence the pricing estimates provided above for the UK and Australia. There’s currently no news on whether this model will make it to other regions, but if you opt to import one you can purchase regional keyboards - since that’s user-replaceable too!
Price: 4 / 5
Framework Laptop Chromebook Edition review: Specs
There's only one configuration of the Framework Laptop Chromebook Edition available for you to buy - but due to the nature of the laptop, you can upgrade and customize it to an impressive degree.
The default configuration uses a 12th-gen Intel Core i5-1240P with 8GB of DDR4 and a 256GB SSD. The laptop essentially has four Thunderbolt 4 USB-C ports, but these are hidden beneath the casing for you to slot the expansion cards into them, letting you decide exactly which ports you want and how you want them positioned.
While the SSDs, RAM, keyboard, screen bezel, and obviously the expansion cards are available to purchase and upgrade individually, you can't buy a specific CPU for Framework's laptops. Instead, the company sells integrated mainboards that incorporate a processor, motherboard, and cooling solution. You can now get 13th-gen Intel models, as Framework has started to make new configurations for its Windows laptops - and those are fully backwards-compatible with this version.
Not content with just making a Chromebook that was sustainably designed and user-friendly, Framework also had to flex a little, didn’t they? This is one of the best Chromebooks out there in terms of physical design, mirroring the best aspects of the regular Framework Laptop but with a few Google-inspired twists.
The outer shell is clean, brushed aluminum with the Framework logo stamped in black on the lid along with the ubiquitous Chromebook logo in the top corner - though here it’s in greyscale, so as not to detract from the laptop’s straightforward aesthetic. Opening it up, we’ve got a pleasingly large trackpad and a black keyboard with soft white LED backlighting.
The keys themselves are a good size and well-spaced, making typing on the Framework Laptop Chromebook Edition feel nice and comfortable even for extended periods. The Chromebook keyboard layout may feel a little alien to Windows users at first, with the caps lock and Esc key replaced by the ‘Everything Button’ and lock key, but it’s an otherwise easy adjustment.
(Image credit: Future)
The display is frankly far beyond what I’ve seen in the vast majority of Chromebooks I’ve tested, a 3:2 aspect ratio ‘productivity screen’ with a 2K resolution that matches the great display on the aforementioned HP Elite Dragonfly Chromebook. The maximum brightness is great at over 400 nits, and 100% sRGB gamut means bright colors look vibrant.
Google already touts improved digital security as a key selling point of Chrome OS, and we’ve got some decent physical security features here too. The square power button doubles as a fingerprint scanner, while the excellent 1080p 60fps webcam and dual microphone array both feature dedicated kill switches on the top bezel of the screen - a nice touch that far too many laptops forgo.
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Of course, I couldn’t not talk about the expansion cards here. They’re phenomenally easy to slot in and remove, with a simple button on the underside of the laptop to release them so they’ll never fall out while the laptop is in your bag.
Framework was kind enough to send us a selection of cards featuring USB-A, USB-C, MicroSD, and HDMI outputs, but you can also get Ethernet, DisplayPort, and 3.5mm jack adaptors (though the latter is already included separately to the card slots).
Continuing the theme of customizability, Framework also sells swappable keyboard covers and screen bezels, and the fully-recyclable box also comes with a small Torx driver to open up the laptop and swap out the memory, storage, or even the entire mainboard. Like the look of this Chromebook, but wish it came with a more powerful 13th-gen Intel Core i7 CPU and 32GB of DDR5 RAM instead? You can make that a reality. I can’t stress this enough: that’s cool as hell.
If those specs up above were for a $999 Windows laptop, I’d be a tad concerned. But Chrome OS has always been able to do more with less compared to Microsoft’s nigh-omnipresent operating system, able to run smoothly on far less powerful hardware than what’s on offer here.
So that Core i5-1240P processor and 8GB of RAM found in my review model is more than enough: Chrome OS runs buttery-smooth here, with no slowdown whatsoever through my entire testing process. Opening a ton of Chrome tabs? No problem. Running games from the Google Play Store? You’ve got it.
In fact, the graphical performance on offer here is impressive. Sure, you won’t be playing all of the best PC games here, but WebGL performance was strong, and when I downloaded some Play Store games to give the integrated Iris Xe graphics more of a workout, I got an impressively steady framerate north of 30fps. I’ve said it before, and I’ll say it again: iGPUs are the future of gaming. Who needs a graphics card, right?
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General CPU performance is also fairly strong, providing speedy operating in just about every area and giving solid results across the rest of our benchmark suite. The Framework Laptop Chromebook Edition also runs very cool and quiet; in our review of the original Framework Laptop, we critiqued the noisy fans, but they rarely kicked in here - only while downloading Genshin Impact’s massive update pack and after running a hardware stress test for several minutes.
One of the best things about the Framework Chromebook is still the fact that if you’re ever even remotely dissatisfied with the performance, you can just go ahead and upgrade it!
A simple bump up to 16GB of RAM (if you happen to be running more memory-intensive software) will only cost you $30, while an SSD upgrade to a healthy terabyte of storage will run you $99. As someone who got his start in tech journalism by building custom computers, I have to say that Framework’s pricing is pretty damn reasonable.
Of course, this is a Chrome OS system, so you’ll want to be mindful if you’re switching over from Windows or MacOS. While it’s lighter on system requirements and offers better child safety and data security features, it’s also limited in terms of which apps it can run. If you’re aiming to use a specific piece of software that isn’t on the Play Store (or otherwise downloadable for Chrome OS), consider yourself warned.
Performance: 4.5 / 5
(Image credit: Future)
Framework Laptop Chromebook Edition review: Battery life
Decent all-day battery life
Doesn’t quite measure up given the price
Does charge fast, however
Our default Chromebook battery test, which sees us looping a 720p video at 50% brightness and letting the battery run down to empty from a full charge, turned up a respectable but not amazing nine hours of runtime. It also charges fast via USB-C, and you can change which side the charge port is thanks to the slottable expansion cards.
If you’re using the Framework Chromebook for more demanding work, it’ll be less; if you opt to turn on the battery-saver mode and lower the brightness, it’ll be more. Framework has previously noted that there’s a known bug with the battery involving certain expansion cards (including the HDMI output, which I was using during my testing process) so it’s possible that with some future firmware updates, the longevity could be improved.
It’s worth noting here that 50% brightness on this particular Chromebook is actually a fair bit brighter than many cheaper options. Nonetheless, this is still a very middle-of-the-road score. Nine hours of battery life is good and should see you through a full day of work, but we’ve seen plenty of Chromebooks that surpass it - most recently the similarly eco-friendly Acer Chromebook Vero 514, which managed a solid 10+ hours.
Battery life: 4 / 5
Should you buy the Framework Laptop Chromebook Edition?
Buy it if...
You’re eco-conscious
If you’re worried about e-waste and want to make an impact, this is the laptop to buy. Framework’s ethos is unquestionably the best around right now when it comes to sustainable hardware.
You want future-proof
The durability and repairability of the Framework Laptop Chromework Edition are simply a cut above the competition, meaning this laptop will last you for years with some periodic upgrades.
You need an office laptop
With its bright 3:2 display, the Framework Chromebook offers plenty of vertical screen real estate for scrolling through web pages and documents, making it great for office work. It’s also compact and light enough to easily take on your commute.
Don't buy it if...
You’re a serious gamer
The Intel Core i5-1240P inside this laptop actually offers decent graphical performance, but it’s not going to measure up to the power of a dedicated graphics card in a proper gaming laptop.
You want ultra-long battery life
The battery life here isn’t terrible, comfortably eclipsing many Windows laptops, but it’s still decidedly average compared as far as Chromebooks go - and it doesn’t even come close to the MacBook Air.
You’re on a tight budget
Yes, $999 is a lot of money for a Chromebook. I’m sticking to my guns; I still maintain that the price is fair for what you get, especially since Framework’s products are so unique, but it’s an entry price that may be simply too high for some people.
Framework Laptop Chromebook Edition review: Also consider
If our Framework Laptop Chromebook Edition review has you considering other options, here are two more laptops to consider...
How I tested the Framework Laptop Chromebook Edition
(Image credit: Future)
Used it for everyday work
Watched Netflix in bed in the evenings
Ran some games as well as our standard suite of benchmark tests
As is custom for my laptop reviews, I incorporated the Framework Laptop Chromebook Edition into my daily routine to properly get to grips with it - using it for my everyday work as well as personal activities (mostly watching Netflix and scrolling through Reddit in bed) in the evenings.
I naturally used it to write most of this review, and found it very comfortable for long typing sessions, which was nice to see - I've typed some negative reviews on some pretty crummy laptop keyboards.
It’s tough to compete with the Epos H6Pro in its mid-range price bracket. With its crystal clear, punchy audio, a high quality microphone and plush ear cups, the H6Pro nails the fundamentals of what makes a great gaming headset. If you’re interested in buying the H6Pro for yourself, however, you’ll have one key choice to make.
That’s because the Epos H6Pro has two variants: open and closed. The former boasts a clearer and more accurate sound, with a tradeoff of leaking more audio. That means folks in your vicinity will likely be able to hear what you’re listening to, and you’ll hear your surroundings much clearer. Meanwhile, the closed variant has slightly muddier audio, but does a much better job of blocking out ambient noise and leaks far less. That makes it a great choice for outdoor listening, commuting or for busy households.
More great news: the Epos H6Pro supports all platforms. Whether you’re on PS5, Xbox Series X|S, Nintendo Switch, last-gen consoles or PC, the wired headset will work perfectly. No need to worry about buying a version of the headset that supports your system of choice.
Epos H6Pro: price and availability
You can buy the Epos H6Pro for $179 / £149, either directly from Epos’ online store or from most big box retailers. That’s significantly cheaper than wireless Epos H3Pro Hybrid, and puts it in the ballpark of the Nacon RIG 800 Pro HX. That price point goes for both open and closed variants of the headset, as each share the same build and specs, with the only difference being in acoustics.
Epos H6Pro: design and features
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Very comfy
Good build quality for the price
Sturdy, adjustable mic
The Epos H6Pro has an unassuming, yet rather pleasing design upon closer inspection. Both open and closed back variants come in three distinct colorways: Green, White and Black (which is actually closer to an indigo shade). Your choice of color purely comes down to aesthetic, with no technical differences here. As a result, feel free to choose a headset based on your favorite color, or one that matches your system of choice.
Both versions of the Epos H6Pro have a near-identical silhouette. The only major difference is the ventilated pads added to the open back variant. These help to keep your ears cooler over long term use. Though as mentioned, this has the tradeoff of leaking audio to your surroundings, as well as making background noise more audible.
The closed back variant doesn’t feature this additional ventilation. That both keeps in and blocks out audio, but your ears will feel warmer – perhaps uncomfortably so for some – during longer sessions. If comfort is a priority for you, then, you may be better served with the open back headset. However, both are perfectly comfortable for shorter listening of gaming sessions.
Both headsets include two separate 3.5mm headphone jack cables. A shorter one for controller use (or for plugging into the Nintendo Switch or Steam Deck handhelds), and a longer cable with a splitter that separates audio and microphone input. This can be a little irksome for PC gaming with friends, but it’s certainly nice to have the option available.
One last thing to comment on is the quality of the microphone. Featuring a sturdy, flexible design similar to the H3Pro Hybrid, it’s impressively durable. That’s a good thing, as the mic can be removed from its magnetic attachment if you’re taking the headset out and about, or simply have no need for online voice communication. The headset also comes with protective magnetic plates that fit over the mic slot, so you won’t need to worry about damaging its port.
Epos H6Pro: audio quality
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Crystal clear, punchy audio profile
Both variants offer slightly different sound
Audio leaking makes the open back variant limited in use
Regardless of whether you choose the open or closed back variant, the Epos H6Pro delivers a joyful audio experience that’s richly detailed. Audio is incredibly clear, and also offers accentuating lows for a punchier, impactful sound. The open back H6Pro offers a nice balance here, but as mentioned above, is best enjoyed in an isolated environment due to that leaking audio.
By comparison, the closed back H6Pro offers slightly bassier audio, really leaning into the lows of any given track. This helps certain genres of music, like metal and EDM, absolutely shine. It can lead to an overall muddier soundscape, though; those lows often risk drowning out the mids and trebles.
Still, the closed back variant does a great job of locking sound into the headset, leaking far less than its open counterpart. It’s the one to buy if you’re after a headset to take out and about as a result.
Having an audio profile of such clarity means the H6Pro is a fantastic headset for gaming, too. Wearing a top-notch headset is a great way to improve your online multiplayer experience, as they can help you become more aware of your surroundings by highlighting distant footsteps, vehicles and gunshots. I found this to be the case in PUBG: Battlegrounds. Over in Gran Turismo 7, the H6Pro helped me listen out for rival motorists trying to cut me off at the apex, and I was able to defend my position much more effectively as a result.
Overall, besides the differences with each variant that’ll come down to personal preference, there’s very little to complain about when it comes to the H6Pro’s sound design. It’s simply one of the best in this department at its mid-range price point.
The only real drawback is that the headset is wired only. However, this does eliminate the possibility of latency or disconnections.
Should I buy the Epos H6Pro?
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Buy it if...
You like to have options Two distinct variants of the H6Pro mean that you can buy the one that suits your preferences. And both sport the exact same price tag.
You’re after fantastic audio The H6Pro excels in providing a high quality listening experience, no matter which variant you opt for.
You have a mid-range budget While not exactly cheap, the H6Pro has a competitive price point in its region.
Don't buy it if...
You’re looking for something cheaper If the H6Pro is a little out of your price range, consider the Sony Inzone H3, another excellent wired headset that comes in under $100 / £100.
You’d prefer a wireless headset The H6Pro is wired only, so you may wish to consider the brilliant RIG 800 Pro HX or the Epos H3Pro Hybrid if you want to go wireless.
The vivo T2 is back from the dead, at least some version of it. A phone with a model number V2240 has surfaced in the Geekbench 5 database and there is reason to believe that this is the T2 that will launch in India on April 11 (Tuesday).
Again, this vivo T2 is different from the one that was slated to launch in China before being hit with several delays. This one will be lower powered using a chipset code named “Holi” – Qualcomm seems to be using this for both the Snapdragon 695 and Snapdragon 480.
Geekbench 5 scorecard: vivo T2 with a Snapdragon 695 chipset
Neither chip is...
Motorola announced its latest Moto G Power member in the US with the Moto G Power 5G. The device brings a 6.5-inch 120Hz IPS LCD with FHD+ resolution and a MediaTek Dimensity 930 chipset for 5G connectivity. Motorola also added a sizeable 5,000 mAh battery with support for 15W charging though you only get a 10W brick in the retail box.
Moto G Power 5G brings a 50MP main cam around the back alongside 2MP macro and depth sensors. The phone boots Android 13 with Moto MyUX interface on top and comes in a single 6GB RAM and 256GB storage trim. The storage is expandable via microSD and the...
When it comes to big name brands in the gaming chair world, Corsair has definitely cemented its place in recent years. The tech brand has stood out from the crowd by making mid-range models which cater to cash-strapped consumers, and the new TC100 Relaxed is its cheapest by far.
While aggressively priced, the Corsair TC100 Relaxed doesn’t sacrifice quality where it matters most. It looks and feels every bit like some of the higher-end chairs I’ve had my hands on in recent years, and it does more than enough to be considered one of the best cheap gaming chairs and one of the best gaming chairs for the asking price.
Price and availability
The Corsair TC100 Relaxed is available now in the US, the UK, and Australia for $199 / £199 / AU$399 and can be gotten in either a black leatherette or two choices of fabric color between black-on-black and black and grey. It’s around $50 / £50 / AU$50 cheaper than the previously most-affordable in the lineup, the TC70 Remix, being the first Corsair chair to sell at this price point.
Assembly
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Putting the Corsair TC100 Relaxed together is an average and occasionally frustrating experience. I’ve put together a lot of gaming chairs over the years, and I have to say that this was far from the easiest. I strongly recommend having a friend or family member assist with the building process because you’ll need some extra support with various aspects of the assembly process. You’re looking at anywhere from 30 to 45 minutes, depending on your experience level.
No instructions were included in the box with the Corsair TC100 Relaxed. However, a guide is available online for those that need help. It’s all pretty straightforward as gaming chairs go; attach the wheels to the base, add the piston, screw the mechanism onto the base of the seat, screw on the armrests, and attach the backrest to the seat.
That can be easier said than done, though, as some of the screw holes were stubborn, and I had to put quite a bit of weight against the backrest to screw it in properly. This is definitely where the price tag was most apparent here—no quality-of-life additions, just all as basic as it gets.
Design and Features
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The design of the Corsair TC100 Relaxed is in-line with some of the brand’s more premium gaming chairs, such as the pricier TC200 and the T3 Rush models. The Corsair badge is embroidered into the top of the headrest with a subtle layering of pattern material woven into the back. The included lumbar and neck pillows attach through elasticated bands, adding to the overall look.
In terms of functionality, the Corsair TC100 Relaxed has a wide range of reclining angles. It ranges from 90 degrees (upright) to 160 degrees (almost horizontal). There’s also ten degrees of tilt which aid with stability when leaning back on the stand. As expected from a budget gaming chair, there are no 4D armrests here, but those included with this model can be moved side to side and have their height adjusted.
The Corsair TC100 Relaxed is a good-looking chair with a strong sense of style. It’s understated enough to not look out of place in an office environment, so if you’ve had enough of gaudier models, this monochrome design may win you over. Considering the cheapest chairs I’ve had my hands on over the years in the $200 / £200 / AU$400 range, this is a definite step up in terms of looks and build quality, even if it doesn’t feel that nice actually, to put together.
Performance
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Sitting in the Corsair TC100 Relaxed is an above-average experience. Corsair says that its newest gaming chair supports up to 6ft2 and 264lbs, which is fairly standard for regular-sized gaming chairs. As someone who is 6ft tall and 200lbs, I felt well-supported by the lumbar and neck pillows and found that the racing style of the seat was wide enough to accommodate my frame without feeling hemmed in.
I felt confident leaning back in the Corsair TC100 Relaxed thanks to the added ten degrees of rocking motion, which angles the seat before the reclining mechanism kicks in. It feels really good to use, especially given the budget nature of this gaming chair. Sitting upright for working is great, as my shoulders and lower back are properly supported. Sometimes with harder lumbar pillows, it can prove uncomfortable over time, but that’s not something I’ve encountered with these.
While there’s nothing special about what the Corsair TC100 Relaxed offers, it’s such a solidly built gaming chair with quality construction and style that its value is hard to argue against. It punches above its weight compared to what’s generally seen around this rate, so if you’re on a tight budget, this no-frills package has all you need at the sub-$200 / £200 / AU$400 mark.
Should I buy the Corsair TC100 Relaxed?
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Buy if…
You’re after a cheap but high-quality gaming chair
The Corsair TC100 Relaxed is about as affordable as it gets from known brands.
Lumbar support is important
The Corsair TC100 Relaxed comes with lumbar and neck pillows which add an extra level of comfort and support.
Don’t buy if…
You want something more premium
The Corsair TC100 Relaxed is as basic as it gets so there are no flashy gimmicks here.
Deutsche Telekom now owns a 50.2% majority stake in T-Mobile US. The news was confirmed by CEO Timotheus Höttges at DT’s 2023 annual shareholder meeting in Bonn, Germany yesterday. The new deal was reportedly valued at $1 billion and comes after years of Deutsche Telekom increasing its ownership stake in T-Mobile. The US carrier is DT’s most profitable unit with a $178 billion market cap with a reported 110 million customers.
Timotheus Höttges at Deutsche Telekom 2023 annual shareholder meeting
T-Mobile recently made headlines by acquiring Mint Mobile and Ultra Mobile in a deal...
Xiaomi will expand its IoT universe in India as it scheduled a launch for next week. The Smarter Living event will take place on April 13 at 2PM local time, and we expect to get more details in the seven days leading up to the event.
All new products are currently blurred on Xiaomi's website
The company said users will “enjoy the peace of mind that comes with having a fully automated home,” and we expect to see plenty of new gadgets, including an Air Purifier, Air Fryer, new Robot Vacuum Mop, new electric razor, a speaker or display with Google Assistant, and even a smart...
The Instant Vortex Slim 6-quart Air Fryer, also known as the Instant Vortex Slim 5.7L Air Fryer in the UK, is the latest addition to the brand’s lineup of mini convection cookers, packing quite the punch in terms of performance while saving you some counter space.
Instant Pot is known for making some of the best air fryers, and the slim version of its Vortex product line completes the range. It offers a more compact option to the flagship Instant Vortex air fryer or the more enhanced Instant Vortex Plus air fryer by trimming back 20% of the bulk.
There are a few things you lose by opting for this model, though. It doesn’t have a dehydrate setting, there’s no progress or text bar (instead, a small seven-segment screen displays the time, temperature, and cooking stage), and there’s no window nor a light. In terms of performance, it offers the same high-quality build and fantastic results – and I’ll happily take that in a smaller size over a progress bar. Also missing are a few of Instant Vortex’s more premium features, such as OdorErase and ClearCook; but for the Slim’s price and convenience, this isn’t the end of the world.
At just 12.7 x 12.1 x 15.3 inches / 30.1 x 25.9 x 45.2cm (h x w x d), the air fryer is refreshingly petite and weighs just 6.8kg, making it pretty easy to move around your kitchen if space is limited. It isn’t quite as compact as the Instant Pot Mini, but it feels like an evolution of this older product, especially given that the Slim offers a 6-quart / 5.7-liter capacity, versus the 2-quart/2-liter Mini model.
(Image credit: Future)
It has only one tray, but there’s more than enough space for cooking two to three portions of chips (depending on how hungry you are!), a 1.3kg chicken for roasting, or a combination of elements going into your meal.
The manufacturer claims that this Slim model is its quietest air fryer yet, with Quiet Mark certification, meaning that you'll barely hear the air fryer fan. We measured a noise level of just 50.4dB on test, which is pretty minimal. It’s worth noting that on test, the Instant Vortex Plus 6-in-1 measured 51.7dB.
And less noise doesn’t come at the expense of high-quality results – the Instant Vortex Slim upkeeps its siblings’ fantastic legacy of perfectly air-fried meals. Its temperature settings range from 95ºF / 35ºC to 400ºF / 205ºC, and the timer can go up to 60 minutes.
Plus, when you’re done cooking your delicious meals, both the basket and tray are dishwasher safe, so cleanup takes minimal effort.
Having mostly tested larger air fryers, and as a single-person household, in particular, I was delighted to have the Instant Vortex Slim at my disposal. It doesn’t sit well to be heating up my entire fan oven for what is often just a few items, especially given the cost of energy, so having an appliance that suits my capacity needs so perfectly was a real boon.
(Image credit: Future)
Instant Vortex Slim air fryer review: Price and availability
List price: $129.99 / £99.99
The Instant Vortex Slim 6-quart / 5.7-liter air fryer is available directly from the Instant Pot website, as well as from various other online retailers such as Amazon US and Amazon UK for $129.99 / £99.99.
For its price and quality, it’s a pretty good value buy – especially for those who want a smaller air fryer without sacrificing performance. However, there are cheaper options available, and considering some of the premium features seen in other Instant Vortex products are missing here, it’s a little harder to justify the ever-so-slightly inflated price ticket.
Value: 4.5/5
Instant Vortex Slim air fryer review: Specs
Price: $129.99 / £99.99
Capacity: 6-quart / 5.7-liter
Power / wattage: 1700W
No. of baskets: 1
No. of programmes: 5
Cable length: 1-metre
Dimensions: 12.7 x 12.1 x 15.3 inches / 30.1 x 25.9 x 45.2cm
Weight: 6.8kg
Dishwasher friendly: Yes
(Image credit: Future)
Instant Vortex Slim air fryer review: Design
Petite at 11.8 x 10.19 x 17.8 inches/ 30.1 x 25.9 x 45.2cm (h x w x d)
One basket with a lift-out tray
6-quart / 5.7-liter capacity
Much like the rest of the Instant Vortex lineup, this slim model is stylish and available in all-black.
Weighing just 6.8kg, the Instant Vortex Slim measures 11.8 x 10.19 x 17.8 inches / 30.1 x 25.9 x 45.2cm (h x w x d) and has a 6-quart / 5.7-liter capacity. It’s one of the most compact units we’ve seen, yet it’s super-impressive given the capacity and performance it delivers.
Its touch controls are housed on the angular edge, where the top and front of the unit meet. Once turned on, you’ll also see buttons for its five settings; air fry, bake, grill, reheat, and roast, as well as buttons for the temperature and time. Once pressed, you can adjust the latter two buttons using a silver roller dial. Unlike Instant’s larger models, which come with a progress bar and slightly different display, the Vortex Slim opts for a seven-segment digital display, which displays the time, temperature, any cooking instructions (such as when it’s time to shake) and the cooking stage.
(Image credit: Future)
On the front of the air fryer is a handle that’s used to pull out the basket, which requires minimal fuss or force. Inside is a lift-out tray whose metal handle tucks in flush to the tray, meaning you don’t lose precious space in the center of the fryer as we’ve seen with some other models. The tray and basket are both dishwasher-friendly, too, making for fuss-free meals from start to finish.
There’s no reinvention of the wheel here and, personally, I don’t adore the shape and angle of the handle. In addition, this model suffers from a similar flaw to other Instant Vortex models, in that the touchscreen can quickly become grubby. As stylish as the display here feels, greasy, food-stained fingers on reflective surfaces are the downside.
Design: 4.5/5
(Image credit: Future)
Instant vortex slim air fryer review: Performance
Maximum temperature 400ºF / 205ºC
Timer will run for up to an hour
Reliable performer
For performance, the Instant Vortex Slim delivers exactly what we’ve come to expect from Instant Pot. Maximum cooking temperature is 400ºF / 205ºC and the timer will run for up to an hour.
The air fryer comes with a QR-scannable guide that includes cooking times for various foods. Generally speaking, and as is the case with all air fryers, these serve as a guideline as you grow accustomed to the device. As is the case with cooking in any oven, in reality cooking times may vary depending on the size, quantity, and even quality of the ingredients being used.
First, I put the Instant Vortex Slim to the test with a portion of steak fries and salmon. The recipe book suggested 390ºF / 200ºC for 15-20 minutes for the fries and 350ºF / 176ºC for 8-12 minutes for the salmon. Since I was cooking the fish from frozen, I popped it in the tray once there were 8 minutes left on the timer for the fries.
Emitting a cheerful jingle, the air fryer indicated a few minutes before the end of the cooking cycle that it was time to give the basked a shake, which I dutifully obeyed. Once the time had elapsed, the air fryer automatically switched off – and I was greeted with perfectly crisp and fluffy fries cooked just to my liking, alongside a moist, flavorful fillet of salmon.
I tend to give my steak fries a little longer in an air fryer to get them extra crisp (Image credit: Future)
Like other Instant Vortex models, you won’t require much oil when cooking in the Slim air fryer. A touch does help potato skins to crisp up better, however. Cooking chicken drumsticks in my favorite Levantine spice mix required only a slight drizzle of oil before cooking at 400ºF / 205ºC for 25 minutes per this Instant Pot recipe to achieve similar results to my salmon and chips meal; the chicken was delicious, perfectly cooked and crisp.
(Image credit: Future)
Lastly, I tried a slightly rogue test of frozen cinnamon rolls. I tried the bake setting at 320ºF / 160ºC for 15 minutes, resulting in fabulously flaky pastry with a moist middle.
Note that the Instant Vortex Slim doesn’t come with OdorErase, but I didn’t notice any more cooking smells than I’d experience cooking in my conventional oven. In addition, I didn’t really miss the ClearCook window that features on the front of other models; the Instant Vortex Slim is so reliable with its cooking times, I wasn’t too worried about not spotting burning food.
All in all, I have very few complaints about the performance of the Instant Vortex Slim. It’s quiet, averaging just 50dB on my decibel reader (which is comparable to a refrigerator hum, and far quieter than my particularly raucous extractor fan). Plus, it cooks food perfectly every time, offering the right balance of features to make your cooking experience as low-maintenance as possible.
Performance: 5/5
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How I tested the Instant Vortex Slim air fryer
(Image credit: Future)
I used it as my main air fryer for two weeks
I used the grill, bake and air fry functions
I cooked chips, salmon, steak, chicken and veg
I’ve been testing air fryers regularly for a year, and have become very familiar with the strengths and weaknesses of various features, as well as what to look for in everyday use.
I used the Instant Vortex Slim for two weeks, cooking various meals from breakfast through to dinner, as well as a few tasty treats, to test its limits and performance. I used a decibel meter to measure its sound output. I tried official Instant Pot recipes and cooking timelines, but also experimented using my own instincts to see how adaptable the Instant Pot is in use.
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