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Beyerdynamic Aventho 300 review: awesome wireless headphones in almost every way
7:00 pm | December 30, 2024
Author: admin | Category: Audio Computers Gadgets Headphones Wireless Headphones | Tags: , | Comments: Off

Beyerdynamic Aventho 300: Two-minute review

The Beyerdynamic Aventho 300 are a fantastic pair of wireless headphones. Using the same drivers as the company’s studio-oriented DT 700 Pro X and DT 900 Pro X, the sound quality will make you feel like you’ve taken a blanket off your music, especially if you’re upgrading from a cheaper, lesser model. And they’re as feature-filled as any other model at this price point.

I believe that, since their release this year, they belong in the conversation for the best wireless headphones. They do fall slightly short of the active noise cancellation (ANC) you find with the likes of Bose and Sony flagships. But, they still fare very well. And again, they sound fantastic. On top of that, the battery life is very, very good.

There are a couple aspects that hold the Beyerdynamic Aventho 300 from being perfect. For instance, the ear pads are tough to remove – an issue if you’re worried about potential wear and tear. And, the main way to control audio on the headphones is a touchpad on the right ear. It’s innovative, but slow to respond and comes with a bit of a learning curve. Since I generally use my phone or computer for adjusting things like volume and forwarding / rewinding, it’s not a dealbreaker. Still, it’s annoying.

At the end of the day, however, the pros vastly outweigh the cons.

Beyerdynamic Aventho 300 on a gray table

(Image credit: Future)

Beyerdynamic Aventho 300: Price and release date

  • Announced September 9 2024, available from November 2024
  • Costs $399.99 / £359.00 (about AU$640)

No doubt about it, the Beyerdynamic Aventho 300 are among the more premium options out there when it comes to wireless headphones. They go for $399.99 / £359.00 (about AU$640), which is more than the Sony WH-1000XM5 and their price of £380 / $399 / AU$649. Both are fantastic sounding headphones. Of course, the Aventho 300 fold up and have faster Bluetooth connectivity, but the WH-1000XM5 have class-leading ANC.

There are even more expensive options out there such as the $899 / £599-priced Dali IO-8 or the $549 / £549 / AU$899-priced Apple AirPods Max where you’re paying for the name or premium materials as much as anything else. The Beyerdynamic Aventho 300, therefore, are well-priced for what they are and offer good value, but are not a steal.

Beyerdynamic Aventho 300 review: Specs

Beyerdynamic Aventho 300 review: Features

Beyerdynamic Aventho 300 on a gray table

(Image credit: Future)
  • Very useable EQ and presets
  • Plenty of accessibility in the app
  • Has multipoint connectivity and lossless codecs

As far as features go, the only thing missing from the Beyerdynamic Aventho 300 is some kind of personalised, augmented sound profile. That said, there is more than enough flexibility available in the app to adjust the EQ. Not only are there six different presets to choose from, including “neutral” interestingly (more on why that’s necessary for some later), but there’s also a five-band graphic EQ with the ability to boost or cut up to six dB where you can save your preferred EQ curve.

Speaking of the app, there’s much more on tap, including playing around with different levels of ANC and ambient mode as well as turning Dolby Atmos and head tracking on. The ANC and ambient modes have five levels of sensitivity and work pretty well, either blocking out sound or letting you hear your surroundings. They’re not quite class-leading, but unless your neighbours or colleagues are especially raucous, you’ll probably be happy with them.

In the app, you can also turn on/off a voice assistant as well as adjust what the internal voice prompt announces. For example, I like hearing the battery level when I turn on the headphones, but I don’t want to hear which codec is being used during the first few seconds of the first song I listen to.

The app also allows toggling things like auto shutdown, sidetone, and LED brightness. There’s even a touch guide to show how to use the touchpad on the side of the headphones.

Though you won’t see it in the app, multipoint connectivity is available. It’s also worth noting that there’s AAC and aptX lossless (and adaptive) support.

Beyerdynamic Aventho 300 on a gray table

(Image credit: Future)
  • Features score: 4.5/5

Beyerdynamic Aventho 300 review: Design

  • Aesthetically pleasing if a bit bulky
  • Touchpad has a learning curve and has inconsistent sensitivity
  • Has a very long battery life

The chunky design of the Beyerdynamic Aventho 300 is aesthetically pleasing while still looking very similar to the majority of over-ear headphones out there. Available in Black and Nordic Grey (reviewed here), the whole thing from the earcups to the head band and all the plush materials are the same color with the exception of the metal (presumably aluminum) yoke and the model name emblazoned on the left earcup – silver on the Nordic Grey model and Nordic Grey on the Black model.

The ergonomics are solid as the ear cups are angled to sit more naturally on the side of the face, though the amount the headband can extend seems like it might not be enough for big heads. The ear pads and headband are covered in a faux leather that’s not the most breathable, but is comfortable enough. I can definitely wear these for a while without feeling fatigued, but they’re not the cream of the crop when it comes to comfort. On top of that, the clamping force is a bit strong, so if you’re sensitive to that, you might need to stretch them out just a bit.

Beyerdynamic Aventho 300 on a gray table

(Image credit: Future)

The controls consist of a power button that also pairs via Bluetooth, a button to cycle through ANC, ANC off, and transparency mode, and the touch pad I’ve mentioned which covers the entire flat portion of the right ear cup. This capacitive area allows an assortment of controls from volume control, skipping through songs, answering calls, and the like via tapping and gesturing in the appropriate directions. It’s a good idea, but takes a bit to learn. More importantly, the sensitivity seems inconsistent, so sometimes I have to gesture more than once to get the headphones to react to what I want to do. This is probably the area where these headphones could use the most fine tuning for successive models.

At least the battery life is long, as you can get 50 hours with ANC on – and ANC has a tendency to drain the battery. After about 10 hours of listening, I had 80% battery life left without charging back up. Considering they charge via USB-C, 10 minutes of charging gets about five hours of play.

  • Design score: 4.5/5

Beyerdynamic Aventho 300 on a gray table

(Image credit: Future)

Beyerdynamic Aventho 300 review: Sound quality

  • Seemingly neutral but has prominent bass and slightly hyped high-end
  • Decently wide soundstage
  • Dolby Atmos and head tracking work well

If you don’t feel like reading the next 200ish words, just know that the Beyerdynamic Aventho 300 sound really good. Since these headphones share the same Stellar.45 drivers that the company introduced in its studio-focused DT 700 Pro X and DT 900 Pro X headphones, the frequency range leans towards a very clean, high-headroom experience that on first listen almost sounds neutral the way a pair of headphones meant for the studio sounds.

After spending a little time listening to all sorts of genres from Rock to Hip Hop and Folk, the nuances become a little more obvious. First of all, even though the sound comes across as clean and even, it’s actually quite bass heavy (note that the frequency range goes as low as 5Hz), especially nearing the sub-bass region. Any Rock or Alternative tracks I listen to become very bass prominent even though the genres are generally more mid-focused.

Of course, it’s a testament to the quality of the drivers that you get such prominent bass while still hearing everything else clearly.

Beyerdynamic Aventho 300 app, three screengrabs

(Image credit: Future)

The high-end is also a little hyped, which adds a bit to the clarity. But, it’s not so prominent to be in-your-face or painful. In the EQ modes I mentioned earlier, the neutral setting actually boosts the mid-range just a tad while bringing the low-end down quite a bit and the high-end a dB or two.

The soundstage is just as stellar. It feels wide enough to make me feel like I’m sitting on stage with the musicians. Far off elements are well-placed so that I get a really immersive sense of space. Now, they’re not the widest sounding headphones ever, but they sit at a sweet spot between intimate and concert hall.

Since there’s Dolby Atmos support, I should mention that it’s a nice touch. However, it is a virtual spatial audio so everything just sounds like there’s just a bit more reverb. While more dimensional, it doesn’t really add much to the experience unless watching a movie or show. I feel the same way about the headtracking that can be enabled. It works well if that matters to you.

  • Sound quality: 5/5

Three Beyerdynamic Aventho 300 screengrabs

(Image credit: Beyerdynamic)

Beyerdynamic Aventho 300 review: Value

  • Pricing is about what one would expect for flagship wireless headphones
  • Paying for consistency
  • Comes with a hard shell and softshell case

As a value proposition, the Beyerdynamic Aventho 300 are good but not great. As previously mentioned, they're not that much more than the Sony WH-1000XM5 and are comparable in a lot of ways, with some aspects being slightly better and others slightly worse. You can spend much more for models that aren’t really any better. But you can spend much less and still get very good-sounding headphones.

However, Beyerdynamic headphones are consistently great, so you’re paying for that to a degree the way you do with Apple when it comes to phones or laptops. At least, you get a nice hard shell case and drawstring bag out of the deal.

  • Value: 4/5

Should I buy the Beyerdynamic Aventho 300?

Buy them if…

You want excellent, polished sound quality
Not only do the Beyerdynamic Aventho 300 sound great, but they sound polished like they’re meant for the studio. Somehow, they still have a large bass response.

You want something a little different but just as good
If you want to get something a little different than everyone else without sacrificing quality, these headphones have it all from sound quality to feature set.

Don’t buy them if…

You’re looking for a best-value buy
While they’re priced appropriately, the Beyerdynamic Aventho 300 are not cheap. So, if you’re looking to get the bang for your buck, there are other options to consider.

You want easy controls
Though the capacitive touchpad on the right earcup is a good idea, it could be executed just a little bit better (it’s not bad, just inconsistent).

Beyerdynamic Aventho 300 review: Also consider

Cambridge Audio Melomania P100
The Cambridge Audio Melomania P100 don’t have the best ANC and lose the proprietary spatial audio. However, they’re great value and not just because they’re a bit cheaper. Since they come at a lower price point, they focus on what matters most – and that’s excellent sound quality. Also, the battery life is excellent
Read our full Cambridge Audio Melomania P100 review

Sony WH-1000XM5
The Sony WH-1000XM5 are still considered one of the best, if not the best, over-ear wireless headphones. The sound quality is excellent, the app is easy to use, and, most importantly, the ANC and ambient features are still virtually unparalleled. Only thing is they’re minimally better than their lower-priced and still available predecessor.
Read our full Sony WH-1000XM5 review

Beyerdynamic Aventho 300 on a gray table

(Image credit: Future)

How I tested the Beyerdynamic Aventho 300

  • Tested over two weeks
  • Tested with different music as well as video streaming
  • Tested every feature meticulously

I spent a few weeks using the Beyerdynamic Aventho 300 as my daily headphones. While using them, I listened to all sorts of genres from electronic and hip-hop to rock and acoustic music to compare the frequency range and soundstage. I also tested them with streaming video and used the various settings such as ANC, ambient mode, and EQ.

After testing, it seems that the Beyerdynamic Aventho 300 are best suited for those wanting a mostly neutral audiophile-like experience in a set of wireless headphones without sacrificing on features.

I’ve spent the last few years reviewing audio equipment and have spent even longer using my critical ear as a listener and musician to understand what does and doesn’t sound good.

  • First reviewed in December 2024
Beyerdynamic Aventho 300 review: awesome wireless headphones in almost every way
7:00 pm |
Author: admin | Category: Audio Computers Gadgets Headphones Wireless Headphones | Tags: , | Comments: Off

Beyerdynamic Aventho 300: Two-minute review

The Beyerdynamic Aventho 300 are a fantastic pair of wireless headphones. Using the same drivers as the company’s studio-oriented DT 700 Pro X and DT 900 Pro X, the sound quality will make you feel like you’ve taken a blanket off your music, especially if you’re upgrading from a cheaper, lesser model. And they’re as feature-filled as any other model at this price point.

I believe that, since their release this year, they belong in the conversation for the best wireless headphones. They do fall slightly short of the active noise cancellation (ANC) you find with the likes of Bose and Sony flagships. But, they still fare very well. And again, they sound fantastic. On top of that, the battery life is very, very good.

There are a couple aspects that hold the Beyerdynamic Aventho 300 from being perfect. For instance, the ear pads are tough to remove – an issue if you’re worried about potential wear and tear. And, the main way to control audio on the headphones is a touchpad on the right ear. It’s innovative, but slow to respond and comes with a bit of a learning curve. Since I generally use my phone or computer for adjusting things like volume and forwarding / rewinding, it’s not a dealbreaker. Still, it’s annoying.

At the end of the day, however, the pros vastly outweigh the cons.

Beyerdynamic Aventho 300 on a gray table

(Image credit: Future)

Beyerdynamic Aventho 300: Price and release date

  • Announced September 9 2024, available from November 2024
  • Costs $399.99 / £359.00 (about AU$640)

No doubt about it, the Beyerdynamic Aventho 300 are among the more premium options out there when it comes to wireless headphones. They go for $399.99 / £359.00 (about AU$640), which is more than the Sony WH-1000XM5 and their price of £380 / $399 / AU$649. Both are fantastic sounding headphones. Of course, the Aventho 300 fold up and have faster Bluetooth connectivity, but the WH-1000XM5 have class-leading ANC.

There are even more expensive options out there such as the $899 / £599-priced Dali IO-8 or the $549 / £549 / AU$899-priced Apple AirPods Max where you’re paying for the name or premium materials as much as anything else. The Beyerdynamic Aventho 300, therefore, are well-priced for what they are and offer good value, but are not a steal.

Beyerdynamic Aventho 300 review: Specs

Beyerdynamic Aventho 300 review: Features

Beyerdynamic Aventho 300 on a gray table

(Image credit: Future)
  • Very useable EQ and presets
  • Plenty of accessibility in the app
  • Has multipoint connectivity and lossless codecs

As far as features go, the only thing missing from the Beyerdynamic Aventho 300 is some kind of personalised, augmented sound profile. That said, there is more than enough flexibility available in the app to adjust the EQ. Not only are there six different presets to choose from, including “neutral” interestingly (more on why that’s necessary for some later), but there’s also a five-band graphic EQ with the ability to boost or cut up to six dB where you can save your preferred EQ curve.

Speaking of the app, there’s much more on tap, including playing around with different levels of ANC and ambient mode as well as turning Dolby Atmos and head tracking on. The ANC and ambient modes have five levels of sensitivity and work pretty well, either blocking out sound or letting you hear your surroundings. They’re not quite class-leading, but unless your neighbours or colleagues are especially raucous, you’ll probably be happy with them.

In the app, you can also turn on/off a voice assistant as well as adjust what the internal voice prompt announces. For example, I like hearing the battery level when I turn on the headphones, but I don’t want to hear which codec is being used during the first few seconds of the first song I listen to.

The app also allows toggling things like auto shutdown, sidetone, and LED brightness. There’s even a touch guide to show how to use the touchpad on the side of the headphones.

Though you won’t see it in the app, multipoint connectivity is available. It’s also worth noting that there’s AAC and aptX lossless (and adaptive) support.

Beyerdynamic Aventho 300 on a gray table

(Image credit: Future)
  • Features score: 4.5/5

Beyerdynamic Aventho 300 review: Design

  • Aesthetically pleasing if a bit bulky
  • Touchpad has a learning curve and has inconsistent sensitivity
  • Has a very long battery life

The chunky design of the Beyerdynamic Aventho 300 is aesthetically pleasing while still looking very similar to the majority of over-ear headphones out there. Available in Black and Nordic Grey (reviewed here), the whole thing from the earcups to the head band and all the plush materials are the same color with the exception of the metal (presumably aluminum) yoke and the model name emblazoned on the left earcup – silver on the Nordic Grey model and Nordic Grey on the Black model.

The ergonomics are solid as the ear cups are angled to sit more naturally on the side of the face, though the amount the headband can extend seems like it might not be enough for big heads. The ear pads and headband are covered in a faux leather that’s not the most breathable, but is comfortable enough. I can definitely wear these for a while without feeling fatigued, but they’re not the cream of the crop when it comes to comfort. On top of that, the clamping force is a bit strong, so if you’re sensitive to that, you might need to stretch them out just a bit.

Beyerdynamic Aventho 300 on a gray table

(Image credit: Future)

The controls consist of a power button that also pairs via Bluetooth, a button to cycle through ANC, ANC off, and transparency mode, and the touch pad I’ve mentioned which covers the entire flat portion of the right ear cup. This capacitive area allows an assortment of controls from volume control, skipping through songs, answering calls, and the like via tapping and gesturing in the appropriate directions. It’s a good idea, but takes a bit to learn. More importantly, the sensitivity seems inconsistent, so sometimes I have to gesture more than once to get the headphones to react to what I want to do. This is probably the area where these headphones could use the most fine tuning for successive models.

At least the battery life is long, as you can get 50 hours with ANC on – and ANC has a tendency to drain the battery. After about 10 hours of listening, I had 80% battery life left without charging back up. Considering they charge via USB-C, 10 minutes of charging gets about five hours of play.

  • Design score: 4.5/5

Beyerdynamic Aventho 300 on a gray table

(Image credit: Future)

Beyerdynamic Aventho 300 review: Sound quality

  • Seemingly neutral but has prominent bass and slightly hyped high-end
  • Decently wide soundstage
  • Dolby Atmos and head tracking work well

If you don’t feel like reading the next 200ish words, just know that the Beyerdynamic Aventho 300 sound really good. Since these headphones share the same Stellar.45 drivers that the company introduced in its studio-focused DT 700 Pro X and DT 900 Pro X headphones, the frequency range leans towards a very clean, high-headroom experience that on first listen almost sounds neutral the way a pair of headphones meant for the studio sounds.

After spending a little time listening to all sorts of genres from Rock to Hip Hop and Folk, the nuances become a little more obvious. First of all, even though the sound comes across as clean and even, it’s actually quite bass heavy (note that the frequency range goes as low as 5Hz), especially nearing the sub-bass region. Any Rock or Alternative tracks I listen to become very bass prominent even though the genres are generally more mid-focused.

Of course, it’s a testament to the quality of the drivers that you get such prominent bass while still hearing everything else clearly.

Beyerdynamic Aventho 300 app, three screengrabs

(Image credit: Future)

The high-end is also a little hyped, which adds a bit to the clarity. But, it’s not so prominent to be in-your-face or painful. In the EQ modes I mentioned earlier, the neutral setting actually boosts the mid-range just a tad while bringing the low-end down quite a bit and the high-end a dB or two.

The soundstage is just as stellar. It feels wide enough to make me feel like I’m sitting on stage with the musicians. Far off elements are well-placed so that I get a really immersive sense of space. Now, they’re not the widest sounding headphones ever, but they sit at a sweet spot between intimate and concert hall.

Since there’s Dolby Atmos support, I should mention that it’s a nice touch. However, it is a virtual spatial audio so everything just sounds like there’s just a bit more reverb. While more dimensional, it doesn’t really add much to the experience unless watching a movie or show. I feel the same way about the headtracking that can be enabled. It works well if that matters to you.

  • Sound quality: 5/5

Three Beyerdynamic Aventho 300 screengrabs

(Image credit: Beyerdynamic)

Beyerdynamic Aventho 300 review: Value

  • Pricing is about what one would expect for flagship wireless headphones
  • Paying for consistency
  • Comes with a hard shell and softshell case

As a value proposition, the Beyerdynamic Aventho 300 are good but not great. As previously mentioned, they're not that much more than the Sony WH-1000XM5 and are comparable in a lot of ways, with some aspects being slightly better and others slightly worse. You can spend much more for models that aren’t really any better. But you can spend much less and still get very good-sounding headphones.

However, Beyerdynamic headphones are consistently great, so you’re paying for that to a degree the way you do with Apple when it comes to phones or laptops. At least, you get a nice hard shell case and drawstring bag out of the deal.

  • Value: 4/5

Should I buy the Beyerdynamic Aventho 300?

Buy them if…

You want excellent, polished sound quality
Not only do the Beyerdynamic Aventho 300 sound great, but they sound polished like they’re meant for the studio. Somehow, they still have a large bass response.

You want something a little different but just as good
If you want to get something a little different than everyone else without sacrificing quality, these headphones have it all from sound quality to feature set.

Don’t buy them if…

You’re looking for a best-value buy
While they’re priced appropriately, the Beyerdynamic Aventho 300 are not cheap. So, if you’re looking to get the bang for your buck, there are other options to consider.

You want easy controls
Though the capacitive touchpad on the right earcup is a good idea, it could be executed just a little bit better (it’s not bad, just inconsistent).

Beyerdynamic Aventho 300 review: Also consider

Cambridge Audio Melomania P100
The Cambridge Audio Melomania P100 don’t have the best ANC and lose the proprietary spatial audio. However, they’re great value and not just because they’re a bit cheaper. Since they come at a lower price point, they focus on what matters most – and that’s excellent sound quality. Also, the battery life is excellent
Read our full Cambridge Audio Melomania P100 review

Sony WH-1000XM5
The Sony WH-1000XM5 are still considered one of the best, if not the best, over-ear wireless headphones. The sound quality is excellent, the app is easy to use, and, most importantly, the ANC and ambient features are still virtually unparalleled. Only thing is they’re minimally better than their lower-priced and still available predecessor.
Read our full Sony WH-1000XM5 review

Beyerdynamic Aventho 300 on a gray table

(Image credit: Future)

How I tested the Beyerdynamic Aventho 300

  • Tested over two weeks
  • Tested with different music as well as video streaming
  • Tested every feature meticulously

I spent a few weeks using the Beyerdynamic Aventho 300 as my daily headphones. While using them, I listened to all sorts of genres from electronic and hip-hop to rock and acoustic music to compare the frequency range and soundstage. I also tested them with streaming video and used the various settings such as ANC, ambient mode, and EQ.

After testing, it seems that the Beyerdynamic Aventho 300 are best suited for those wanting a mostly neutral audiophile-like experience in a set of wireless headphones without sacrificing on features.

I’ve spent the last few years reviewing audio equipment and have spent even longer using my critical ear as a listener and musician to understand what does and doesn’t sound good.

  • First reviewed in December 2024
Orico O7000 SSD review: high-end PCIe 4.0 storage without the frills
4:00 pm |
Author: admin | Category: Computers Computing Computing Components Gadgets Storage & Backup | Tags: | Comments: Off

Orico O7000: One-minute review

Although we’re technically in the PCIe 5.0 era of storage, it’s really been a golden age for PCIe 4.0 SSDs thanks to a plethora of choices, such as the Orico O7000, which is positioned as a drive with high-end performance for a midrange price.

This PCIe 4.0 SSD ranges from 512GB to 4TB, and for this review we’re taking the 1TB model for a spin. Rated for 7000MB/s in reads and 6500MB/s in writes, the O7000 isn’t quite at the top-end of PCIe 4.0 storage (which would be the Samsung 990 Pro), but it’s close.

What makes this drive particularly interesting is its current $69 price (about £55/AU$100), which is relatively low nowadays for a drive of this caliber.

Compared to top-end PCIe 4.0 SSDs like the FireCuda 530R from Seagate and the MP600 Pro NH from Corsair, the O7000 is just a shade slower for the most part, and often ties the two drives.

However, when writing lots of data to the O7000 (like if you’re moving all your game installations to it), its performance easily bogs down and becomes extremely slow.

The O7000 1TB also has a weakness in that other brands offer the same SSD hardware under different names, and these drives can sometimes be cheaper, but sales pricing is always a fickle thing.

For now, though, the O7000 is the cheapest option for this hardware, and its performance makes it one of the best values in PCIe 4.0 storage.

Orico O7000: Price & availability

An Orico O7000 SSD on a table with its retail packaging

(Image credit: Future / Matthew Connatser)
  • How much does it cost? From $69 (about £55/AU$100)
  • When is it out? Available now
  • Where can you get it? Available in the US, with UK and Australia availability pending

The O7000 is currently available on Amazon and Newegg, though at the time of writing, Amazon only offers the 1TB model, while Newegg also has the 2TB and 4TB variants in stock. The 1TB model costs $59, the 2TB $93, and the 4TB $196. The 2TB is currently the best deal on a dollar per GB basis, but since SSD prices can easily go up or down, it’s unclear how long this will be true for.

At $59 for the 1TB model, it’s significantly cheaper than other flagship PCIe 4.0 drives like Seagate’s FireCuda 530R and Corsair’s MP600 Pro NH, which cost $94 and $84 respectively for the 1TB version. It’s also much cheaper than older PCIe 5.0 SSDs, such as the $169 FireCuda 540 1TB.

Orico O7000: Specs

Orico O7000: Performance

An Orico O7000 SSD slotted into a motherboard

(Image credit: Future / Matthew Connatser)

Overall, the O7000 shows good, but not perfect, performance. The 530R and MP600 Pro NH were faster for the most part, but in nearly every single test the O7000 nipped on their heels. There were even a few instances where the O7000 tied or beat the Seagate and Corsair drives.

A particularly bright spot for the O7000 is its thermal performance and efficiency. It only maxed out at 50 degrees Celsius, far lower than the three other SSDs we tested. That makes the O7000 a decent candidate for laptops and handheld PCs, which often lack good SSD cooling.

Of course, more heat occurs because of higher power consumption, so the O7000 is a low-power drive too, another reason to choose it for a battery-powered device.

The FireCuda 540 was of course in its own league, but it costs about twice as much and benefits from active cooling, something the O7000 definitely doesn’t need.

However, the O7000’s biggest weakness is in sustained writes. All SSDs suffer from lowered writing performance the less free space they have, but the O7000 can see its performance drop to as low as 150MB/s. However, it’s rare to come across this situation in the real world since it requires tens or hundreds of gigabytes of large files being moved to an SSD.

Orico O7000: Verdict

A hand holding an Orico O7000 SSD

(Image credit: Future / Matthew Connatser)

While the O7000 1TB isn’t perfect, its overall performance is very close to what you get with the FireCuda 530R 2TB and MP600 Pro NH 2TB. With a substantially lower price tag of $69, that makes the O7000 a better deal for the most part. If you’re looking for a new boot drive on a budget or if you just want some fast, secondary storage, the O7000 is a sensible choice.

However, the SSD that the O7000 1TB is based on is also made by other brands, including TeamGroup with its MP44. There’s really no reason to buy the more expensive drive since they’re essentially identical, but that works in Orico’s favor right now since the O7000 is cheaper.

The O7000 2TB is an especially good deal right now, going for just $93, which isn’t much more than lots of 1TB drives. Spending the extra $34 to get double the storage and the same performance makes the O7000 2TB especially appealing versus the 1TB model, though we don’t know how long this will hold since SSD prices can change quite frequently (and have done so as this review was in progress).

Should you buy the Orico O7000

Buy the Orico O7000 if...

You need fast storage on a budget
The O7000 has nearly top-end performance for a PCIe 4.0 SSD, and should work fine for just about anyone.

You want a cool and efficient SSD
The O7000 consumes very little power, which means longer battery life on mobile devices and low temperatures even without a heatsink.

Don't buy it if...

You need top-end performance period
The O7000 isn’t quite as fast as other PCIe 4.0 SSDs and stumbles in sustained writing.

You can find another SSD with the same hardware for less
There are a few SSDs out there that use the same components, such as TeamGroup’s MP44 and Lexar’s NM790. They’re essentially identical, so if they’re cheaper, just get one of those instead.

How I tested the Orico O7000

Although Intel’s new Core Ultra 200 Series has technically replaced last-gen 14th Gen CPUs, I’m using my LGA 1700 test bench for SSD testing, rather than an LGA 1851 test bench.

This is because SSDs run on Arrow Lake CPUs actually perform significantly worse than on 14th Gen CPUs. We’re not entirely sure why this is the case, but in order to show our SSDs’ best possible performance, we have to use Intel’s last-gen CPUs.

The LGA 1700 test bench is equipped with the Core i9-14900K, ASRock’s Z790 Taichi Lite motherboard, 32GB of DDR5 clocked to 5600MHz, and Corsair’s H170i iCUE LINK liquid cooler with a 420mm radiator. We also tested the Firecuda 530R, Firecuda 540, and MP600 Pro NH for comparison.

AndaSeat X-Air Pro Mesh gaming chair review: right idea, wrong implementation
1:00 pm |
Author: admin | Category: Computers Gadgets Gaming | Tags: | Comments: Off

AndaSeat X-Air Pro Mesh: Two-minute review

AndaSeat's playing an intriguing game with this one. The X-Air Series Mesh line actually features two base models to choose from straight out of the gate, the X-Air and the X-Air Pro. The X-Air starts at $369 / around £290, and the X-Air Pro comes in at the $419 / around £329 mark. Both are only available from its store right now. The big difference between the two? Well, it's mostly down to colorways, the base, and the armrests.

With the Pro, you get 5D rests (more on that later), an aluminum base, and access to two additional colorways. The Celeste model, which I got to test, is a black mesh solution with a purple ombre back finish, and the Twilight, with a pinkish ombre back but with a white mesh rather than the black we see here.

The stock X-Air gets more traditional 4D armrests, along with a stock adjustable tilt system, plus an iron base, and is only available in black throughout. Yet, to be frank, that's still the one I'd recommend you pick up if you're torn between the two. Not only because of the savings but because those more traditional armrests are far superior to the 5D devils that you get on the X-Air Pro.

Why are they such an issue? Simply put, they're just too confusing. They slip, slide, and shunt in so many directions and rotate in so many different ways that it makes it incredibly hard for them to support you if you push against them. Rest your arms on top; sure, you'll be fine, but otherwise they've really lost some of that critical function that makes a good armrest; it's elements like this that really detract from the overall score, and keep it a step away from becoming one of the more comfortable gaming chairs available today.

The back of the AndaSeat X-Air Pro Mesh in a home office.

(Image credit: Future)

As for its build process, well, you're going to absolutely want a second pair of hands to help out here, that's for sure. AndaSeat's manual is detailed enough, and the included bits and bolts are plenty abound, but the way it wants you to angle and align some of the (seriously heavy) parts just to secure them together is honestly mildly insane.

The ergonomics too are curious; it's got solid lumbar built-in and a decent headrest, and the mesh itself is supportive enough (even despite lacking any padding underneath), yet it's incredibly difficult to adjust or even know what you're doing when you start using it. That can make the initial experience with it quite a bit of a turn-off. There's an argument to be had that it is adjustable and with enough time, effort, energy, and reading the manual you'll get there, but this is something that should just be intuitive straight out of the box, which sadly it's not.

It might sound like I'm just wailing on this thing, but it's still an ok proposition if you're looking for a sleek, comfortable gaming chair that'll fit right into an office environment too. Alright, it might not make it as one of the best gaming chairs around, but credit where credit's due; comfort is impressive, and it does what it meant to: keep you cool over long gaming sessions while being ergonomically supportive. But, and it's a big but, there are still a number of better options out there at this price point.

AndaSeat X-Air Pro Mesh: Price and availability

  • List price: $419
  • No Amazon or UK availability
  • Limited Colorways

Right now, if you're looking to pick up your own Mesh X-Air, you're likely going to find it a challenge if you're anywhere but the US. Stateside is the only place you can easily pick one of these up, and only directly from AndaSeat's website.

You can grab either the X-Air or the X-Air Pro in one of three colorways. The X-Air is limited to an all-black run, whereas the Pro also has access to a white mesh with an ombre back and a black mesh variation of that as well. The Pro also comes with AndaSeat's 5D Armrests, along with an aluminum base, and a self-adjusting tilt system, although I'll cover all that in a little more detail soon enough.

Perhaps unsurprisingly, given how little physical material is involved in the Mesh line, the pricing of this compared to something like AndaSeat's Kaiser 4 is markedly less. The Kaiser 4 line starts at around $569, whereas the X-Air Mesh you can get as low as $369, making it seemingly good value by comparison.

AndaSeat X-Air Pro Mesh: Specs

AndaSeat X-Air Pro Mesh: Design and aesthetics

  • Office-esque feel
  • Challenging to configure
  • Light gaming "pop" to it

Ok, let me call it like it is here. From the front, this thing screams corporate office, and little else. It just does. It's got that new mid-level manager making an executive decision to buy in 20 new highly ergonomic office chairs while they're in their task force/project codename phase, feel to it.

There's nothing glamorous here, nothing obviously comforting, just semi-transparent woven mesh fabric strapped ergonomically to a metallic-plastic superstructure, combined with an all-black finish, and some rather funky-looking armrests.

Turn it around on the spot, however, and if you've grabbed yourself one of the more outlandish X-Air Pro variants, your eyes will immediately be drawn to the dramatic and ostentatious ombre gradient running from top to bottom on the rear support structure. It's bold, it's potent, and honestly, a little bit confusing.

Almost like the X-Air doesn't quite know what it wants to be. Is it the best gaming chair? The best office chair? It doesn't know, but to be honest, that's fine.

A close up of the front of the AndaSeat X-Air Pro Mesh.

(Image credit: Future)

AndaSeat X-Air Pro Mesh: Comfort and adjustability

  • 5D Armrests are a nightmare
  • No lumbar adjustment
  • Not intuitive to use

From a comfort perspective, the mesh material on the AndaSeat X-Air Pro Mesh is far more impressive than you'd first think.

If you've not tried a mesh chair, and have sat your posterior down mostly on their slightly more expensive PU leather counterparts throughout your gaming career, complete with thick padded cushions and enough adjustable dials to make even the most avid of guitarists happy, then you might be surprised by just how spongy and supportive these things can be.

AndaSeat has nailed the mesh fabric on this. It's not anywhere near as abrasive, or unsupportive as you first might think; there's almost a bounce to it. That's not to say it's as soft as a labrador's ears, but nevertheless, if you're sitting on this for prolonged periods of time, you'll find it more than comfortable enough. Whether you're doing a nine-hour Elden Ring challenge run or writing out a 20-page feature, the X-Air Pro does have your back (quite literally).

Now onto the bad bits. Adjustability is there, but it's not intuitive. The lumbar support is fixed straight out of the gate and quite aggressive. If you're not a fan of that, there's little you can do to alleviate the pressure it puts on your lower spine. The headrest is adjustable, but again it does protrude quite aggressively, even with the best of adjustments, and the seat base does move back and forward too, giving you some level of control, but again, even with all the toggles you have at your disposal, knowing when you've actually moved it takes a great degree of awareness for your fine motor skills.

Then there's the 5D armrests. These things are a mess, sadly. They're effectively built on three moving parts. The main arm moves up and down on a ratchet system, a middle extended plinth attached to that that can rotate up to around 220 degrees, and then the final armrest on top of that, which can also rotate a full 360 degrees and also slide backwards and forwards as well.

There's a lot going on here, and although it's comfortable enough up top with plenty of sponge because it has all that movement, it means if you try and lean on it at any point or attempt to use it to reposition your sitting position on the chair, it's likely to slide out from under you in all manner of weird and wonderful ways. This is a marked design devolution, even compared to something like the Kaiser 4's 5D armrests, to the point that I'd actually recommend sticking with the X-Air if you're considering this chair, purely to avoid the 5D rests.

Final positive: the tilt mechanism is fantastic. The back of the chair itself tilts, rather than the base it's attached to as well. That gives you a much more sturdy seating position that lets you relax if you're a little on the anxious side. This was the first chair where I personally enjoyed having it set to that, and its self-adaptive tilt is top tier.

The armrests of the AndaSeat X-Air Pro Mesh.

(Image credit: Future)

AndaSeat X-Air Pro Mesh: Assembly

Oh, why AndaSeat, why is the assembly on this thing so nightmarish? What is it that stops you from assembling some of this on-site and shipping it complete?

This is not an easy chair to put together. The instruction manual is good enough, and it tells you what to do, but you need to route and attach the wire cables for all of the adjustment elements, secure the toggles into position on the side of the seat base, and then cover the exposed cables with what has to be the most awkward plastic cover I've ever seen.

From there, it's a case of (if you're building it solo) precariously attaching the seat back to the chair base (which weighs a ton) with the arms already attached. That would be fine if it weren't balancing on those plastic 5D armrests. Finally, you can install the headrest, which again you're securing into position with two screws that you can't see. It's just a nightmare. I've built well over 50 gaming chairs over a decade during my time in this industry, and this was the most challenging one by far.

Assembling the AndaSeat X-Air Pro Mesh.

(Image credit: Future)

Should I buy the AndaSeat X-Air Pro Mesh?

Buy it if...

You want to be cool
The mesh fabric does an outstanding job of keeping you cool under pressure. It's easy to clean, doesn't feel that abrasive, and supports you well.

You love lumbar support
You just need solid lumbar support straight out of the gate. It might not be adjustable, but this thing is pronounced for the lumbar lovers.

Don't buy it if...

You haven't got a buddy
Building this thing is a real challenge. If you've got a spare pair of hands available, pull them into the fray to get you to the end, otherwise other chairs are way easier to assemble and will be more attractive as a result.

You shuffle about a lot
Those 5D armrests might sound cool on paper, but they do little to support you if you move around on the chair or sit cross-legged.

Also consider...

It's relatively cheap, relatively comfortable, but a bit of a nightmare. If, like me, you're not sold on the AndaSeat X-Air Pro, then try out one of these for size.

Steelcase Series 2 Task
One of the best office chairs around, it may be pricey, but it's simple, elegant, unsophisticated, surprisingly minimal, and endlessly customizable for your needs. That might feel a little niche compared to our pseudo-mesh gaming solution here, but it's well worth your time if you're already looking down this alley.

For more information, check out our full Steelcase Series 2 Task Chair review.

AndaSeat Kaiser 3 XL
AndaSeat's bread and butter gaming chair, the Kaiser 3 XL, comes with a lot of the same features that you'll find in seats nearly twice the cost. It's widely available, and you can pick one up in an absolute armada of colorways to suit your style too. Only downside? The stitching's a little out.

For more information, check out our full AndaSeat Kaiser 3 XL review.

A look at the base of the AndaSeat X-Air Pro Mesh from the rear.

(Image credit: Future)

How I tested the AndaSeat X-Air Pro Mesh

  • Sat in all manner of positions
  • Tested over three weeks
  • Multiple butts in seat

I tested the AndaSeat X-Air Pro Mesh gaming chair rigorously over the course of several weeks, using it as my daily chair throughout all of my writing work, alongside gaming and other PC-oriented activities.

Additionally, I also took it to live in a hospitality environment for 1 week with multiple staff members of a variety of different shapes and sizes sitting in it, providing me with their own direct feedback as well, ensuring all manner of folk are catered for. I documented the entire build process and my time with the X-Air Pro, and also sat in for the duration of the review writing process.

Read more about how we test

First reviewed December 2024.

TP-Link TL-WR1502X Wi-Fi 6 Travel Router review
10:43 am |
Author: admin | Category: Computers Gadgets Pro | Comments: Off

These days, my life is full of technology. Depending on the trip, I have my iPhone, Apple Watch, iPad Mini, MacBook Pro, my wife's iPhone, Kindle, kids' tablets, and a smart power station or two. That's a lot of internet-connected gear when on the go. Not only is it annoying to have to put in a new password for whatever location you are at, but it's also incredibly insecure.

Over the last few years, I have stopped connecting to public Wi-Fi, or Wi-Fi, which is not secure altogether. I'll frequently tether to my iPhone if I am just on one device. But, when I start pulling out multiple devices or if my iPhone cell service isn't excellent (I'm looking at you, Verizon), I look for a strong and probably ok public Wi-Fi and connect to it, but not with my devices, with my portable router. I do this, plus a VPN to help ensure that my information stays my information, and this little travel router is how I do it.

Can this tiny travel router compare with the best Wi-Fi routers out there? I put the pocket-sized TP-Link TL-WR1502X Wi-Fi 6 Travel Router to the test.

TP-Link Wi-Fi 6 Travel Router: Price and Availability

The TP-Link Wi-Fi 6 Travel router is available all over the place. You can find it on the TP-Links website, Amazon, or other retailers. When writing this sentence, the price is $60 for a single unit.

TP-Link Wi-Fi 6 Travel Router

(Image credit: Collin Probst // Future)

TP-Link Wi-Fi 6 Travel Router: Unboxing and First Impressions

When I opened the box for this router, I immediately noticed how simple everything was. This router seemed too small and too basic-looking to be able to do everything that it was doing. It's lightweight, with a sleek and durable build. The router, a power adapter, a USB-C cable, a quick start guide, and a simple ethernet cable came in the box.

The compact design is easy enough to tuck in any bag, pocket, or jacket. The unit as a whole can fit in the palm of my hand. Right now, I carry it with me daily in my backpack. And I'm particular about what I am willing to put in my backpack, so that's a big deal for me to tuck it away. I love the matte black finish and the built-in ventilation, as it helps keep the device from overheating.

Lastly, the port offering is impressive for a small unit, and the ports are placed great on the device, making it easy to use and work with.

TP-Link Wi-Fi 6 Travel Router

(Image credit: Collin Probst // Future)

TP-Link Wi-Fi 6 Travel Router: Design and Build Quality

Specs

Wi-Fi: Wi-Fi 6
Speeds: Up to 1.5Gbps
Ports: 2x Ethernet, 1ssx USB-C for tethering/power, 1x fUSB-A
Features: VPN support, WPA3 security, USB tethering

As I have mentioned, this device is incredibly portable. Still, it's also quite sturdy, making it a great travel companion because I don't have to worry about it breaking on me. I've had this in my everyday carry backpack that goes everywhere with me for the last few months, and I have not had any issues with this getting damaged or slowing down. It keeps working and working great every time.

TP-Link Wi-Fi 6 Travel Router

(Image credit: Collin Probst // Future)

TP-Link Wi-Fi 6 Travel Router: In use

So far, I have gotten a lot of use out of this little travel router. I've had it with me for a few months now and am thrilled to have it. The older I get, and as time goes on, the more and more paranoid I get about my physical and digital security. In the digital world, one of the things I have sworn not to do anymore is to connect to networks that I do not know or do not manage myself. However, sometimes that is the only option. That's where my travel router comes into play for one of the many use cases I have it for. I can quickly flip a switch and connect to that coffee shop, VRBO, airport, or even airplane Wi-Fi with my router, throw a VPN on, and then connect with my devices. My work and sensitive information, like bank cards and sensitive documents, are accessible through my Macbook. It would be wild for me not to protect it.

Another way that I have been using my travel router is to connect non-apple devices to my iPhone hotspot or direct USB tether. Most of what I have with me on any given day is Apple; however, for the times that I am testing a different laptop, if I have the Nintendo Switch with me, a portable projector if the kids have a gadget or something like that, this makes it super easy to have specific travel Wi-Fi saved on their devices that they can connect to that isn't just always my phone.

I have noticed smooth and fast connections when using the Wi-Fi, even from a decent distance away. For example, we stayed at a VRBO rental a few weeks back. I did not want to connect to the provided Wi-Fi, so I connected the ethernet cables to my TP-Link Travel router and ran that as a main router for a week. It worked great across the entire home, with all my devices connected. It handled (up to) five iPhones, two MacBooks, eight iPads, two Apple Watches, and a sound machine/night light, all without skipping a beat.

The only gripe I have with this router is that it takes a minute to boot up, so if I am in a hurry, it can be frustrating to wait for it to boot up and get working. However, if that's my only frustration, that makes for a pretty incredible device.

TP-Link Wi-Fi 6 Travel Router

(Image credit: Collin Probst // Future)

TP-Link Wi-Fi 6 Travel Router: Final verdict

The TP-Link AX1500 Wi-Fi 6 Travel RoutWi-Filivers top-tier performance in a travel-friendly package. With its fast speeds, modern security, and versatile features like VPN and USB tethering, it's a must-have for anyone needing reliable internet access wherever they go. While it's priced slightly higher than some competitors, its advanced functionality justifies the investment for frequent travelers or remote workers.

For more connectivity tools, we reviewed the best mesh Wi-Fi systems

Hori Wireless Racing Wheel Apex review: a racing peripheral with impressive wireless tech, but not much else
8:00 pm | December 29, 2024
Author: admin | Category: Computers Gadgets Gaming Gaming Accessories | Tags: , | Comments: Off

Hori Wireless Racing Wheel Apex: One-minute review

Look, it’s hard to make one of the best racing wheels at an affordable cost. Compromises have to be made in order to hit a lower price point, and there are no good options when it comes to what to jettison.

In the Hori Wireless Racing Wheel Apex, Hori has managed to retain decent build quality and even an impressive wireless function that far pricier wheels don’t feature, but after a few hours of use it’s clear that this is a Pyrrhic victory - the driving experience makes you miss the features it’s gone without.

Specifically: a longer brake pedal actuation, a sturdier pedal base that stays in place, and - although it’s a stretch at the price - force feedback. With these elements missing, the fundamental fun and increased precision you gain from inputting via a wheel is unfortunately offset by too much fiddling and repositioning with the pedals, and an unsatisfying on/off feel to braking.

Of course, that’s the sim racer in me talking, with an awareness of how far more expensive direct drive setups feel in the best racing games. If you put this wheel in the hands of a younger gamer whose curiosity for racing might not warrant sinking two grand on a Fanatec direct-drive rig quite yet, they’ll likely just appreciate the pros and won’t miss the cons too much.

The same goes for casual players whose appetite for racing is infrequent and who just want to try a different style of controlling their vehicles in game. Ultimately, then? The Hori Wireless Racing Wheel Apex's quality hinges entirely on the use case, and the audience. Just know that there are dramatically better options out there for only a small amount of extra cash.

The side profile of the Hori Wireless Racing Wheel Apex.

(Image credit: Future)

HORI Wireless Racing Wheel Apex: Price and availability

  • List price: $119.99 / £159.99 / around AU$319
  • As budget-friendly as you’ll find for a racing wheel
  • Logitech’s G29 is only £40 more now in UK, and offers force feedback

You can’t fault Hori’s ability to achieve a really attractive entry-level price point – in fact, you’ll struggle to find a cheaper model from a reputable brand. This pricing alone makes the Hori Wireless Racing Wheel Apex worth considering.

It’s up against dominating competition from an old stalwart, the Logitech G29, in the UK which is now going for £199 and offers force feedback, superior build qualit,y and functionality. In the US, where the G29 still costs $299, the Hori Wireless Racing Wheel Apex seems a lot more reasonable.

Hori Wireless Racing Wheel Apex: Specs

Hori Wireless Racing Wheel Apex: Design and features

  • Smart appearance
  • Ergonomic layout
  • Flawed pedal design

You’ll find even less metal here than at the Teen Choice Awards, but this wheel’s finish and aesthetic do a lot to flatter the plastic construction materials. This being a PlayStation wheel officially licensed by Sony, you’ll find all the buttons from a DualSense Wireless Controller mapped around the centre of the wheel in a sensible ergonomic layout. Behind them are two plastic paddle shifters, and above the central PlayStation logo are a couple of toggle switches for PS4 / PS5 / PC compatibility.

It’s an attractive peripheral for the price, and the chromed plastic on the lower half does a lot to elevate the look. The gold centre band is a useful touch that adds some motorsport cred to the design, and all the face buttons feel really nice to press – perhaps owing to Hori’s chops in the fight stick market.

I also appreciated the rubberized grips, which added a lot to the feel during a race and kept my hands exactly where I needed them, even in sweatier sessions.

The button layout of the Hori Wireless Racing Wheel Apex.

(Image credit: Future)

Down at your feet though, the design fares less well. There’s no hiding how plasticky that throttle and brake are, nor how insubstantial they feel to operate.

A lot of this comes down to the design. The base just isn’t big enough to distribute your stamping force across a wide enough surface area to prevent the pedals from shifting or twisting under your feet. Even if you push the unit right up against a wall so it can’t move backwards, you still feel a twist if you brake hard. There’s not much that can be done about this - there are no mounting holes for a racing seat, and the rubber stays aren’t sticky enough to keep it in place on carpets or hard floors.

Time for the ace up the Hori Wireless Racing Wheel Apex’s sleeve, though: wireless operation. Alright, not totally wireless - you still need to connect the wheel to the pedals, via an old-school modem-like input (like the ones Thrustmaster and Fanatec use in bases). But from wheel to console or PC, it’s cable-free.

Up to 10 hours of battery life is promised on the spec sheet, and pairing it to the USB-A dongle is a simple procedure. It’s a genuinely impressive addition, although you can’t help but wonder if the overall experience might have benefitted from that expense being spent on the driving feel instead.

Hori Wireless Racing Wheel Apex: Performance

  • Functional but basic
  • Limited steering angle and brake actuation
  • Centering spring hampers car feel

There are two ways to appraise this wheel. Given that it’s aimed squarely at the beginner end of the market, the first is to simply weigh up the merits of using a wheel input versus a controller – the increased precision offered, the way you can catch those spins quicker and correct them more easily. The advantage of holding a consistent steering angle through a corner is something that’s much trickier when you’re trying to be precise with a tiny analog stick. It won’t make you faster straight away, but in the long run, you’re always going to feel the benefits of a wheel peripheral over a pad.

The second approach – and this is where Hori is sweating – is to evaluate this wheel against similarly priced competitors. And that’s where it struggles to make a compelling argument.

Here are the elements that hamper your performance: firstly, the brake pedal. In addition to the issues with keeping the pedal base in place, the brake pedal itself has a tiny amount of actuation, and that creates the sensation that you’re pressing the brake button, rather than applying progressive pressure to the brakes. In other words, it negates the benefits of braking using a pedal instead of a trigger on a pad.

It’s not all bad, though. To the Hori Wireless Racing Wheel Apex’s credit, there’s a decent amount of resistance to the spring on the brake, slightly more than on the throttle, which feels just about resistant enough. And which, crucially, has just about enough travel.

The pedals of the Hori Wireless Racing Wheel Apex.

(Image credit: Future)

Next performance-limiting issue: the centering spring strength of the wheel. This is not a force feedback peripheral, so there’s no tarmac rumble, no dynamic resistance to turn-in, and no steering wheel snaps when your back end hits traction loss and steps out. That’s fair enough. This is a budget wheel, and implementing both the hardware and the software compatibility for force feedback aren’t cheap.

So in its place is a simple spring which brings the wheel back to its centre point when you’re not exerting steering inputs to the left or right. The amount of tension when you’re moving the wheel from centre to a degree of rotation feels fine, and likewise when you’re moving it back from that rotated position. But as it hits the centre point, the wheel snaps into position so aggressively that it affects a car’s stability in-game.

There’s also the 270-degree rotation range to consider. It’s enough angle to enjoy the feeling of sending a car through a corner in most scenarios, but it’s quite limited by the standards set by its peers and situations will crop up where you’ll wish for more angle. Taking the hairpin at Monaco in F1 24, for example, or trying to park in Euro Truck Simulator 2. Many wheels offer up to 900 degrees, and truthfully I’ve sometimes felt like I could get away with much less until I used this Hori Wireless Racing Wheel Apex.

And that leads to the final point about this wheel. It’s not to be knocked or ruled out of contention, because the build quality and features are decent for the price. But that caveat is crucially important. It’s the only context in which such a wheel makes sense.

And that means you should consider if this wheel is going to satisfy your needs in the long run, or whether you’ll probably end up buying a more expensive upgrade later down the line that adds in the features you’ll miss here.

Should I buy the Hori Wireless Racing Wheel Apex?

The complete Hori Wireless Racing Wheel Apex setup.

(Image credit: Future)

Buy it if...

You’re new to racing peripherals
The pricing and feature set are aimed squarely at the entry level of the market, making the Hori Wireless Racing Wheel Apex a low-cost way to see if wheel peripherals are for you.

You’re buying for a younger gamer
The smaller size of the pedals and wheel would suit a junior racer who’s newer to the genre.

You’re not going to upgrade later
Spending slightly more could unlock access to wheels with force feedback, more rotation, better pedals and sturdier construction, so be sure that this is all you’re going to need.

Don't buy it if...

You're an Xbox racer
The Hori Wireless Racing Wheel Apex is PS5, PS4, and PC-compatible, so if you want a Forza rig you’ll need to look elsewhere.

You want force feedback
You get a lot more information from a force feedback wheel which helps you to improve as a racer in the long run.

You’ve got a heavy foot
The small pedal base, plastic construction and limited brake actuation aren’t ideal for heavy brake or throttle inputs.

Also consider...

If the Hori Wireless Racing Wheel Apex doesn’t meet your need (for speed), these similarly priced rivals are worth a look.

Thrustmaster T248
A decent all-rounder with sturdy build quality, gratifying magnetic shifter paddles and a lot of torque generated by a dual-motor force feedback servo.

For more information, check out our full Thrustmaster T248 review

Logitech G920
The elder statesman of racing wheels remains as dependable and feature-complete as ever, even if its position in the Logi G hierarchy is confusing following the G923’s arrival.

For more information, check out our full Logitech G920 review

How I tested the Hori Wireless Racing Wheel Apex

  • One week of regular use during testing
  • Tested with PC and PS5
  • Racing sims and arcade titles tried

Since the Hori Wireless Racing Wheel Apex's pedal base can’t be mounted to a sim racing rig, my Playseat gathered dust for a week while I clamped this wireless rig to my desk and put in the hours with Gran Turismo 7, F1 24, and The Crew Motorfest.

I’ve been testing wheels since the early 2010s when the Logitech G27 sat resplendent on the sim racing throne, and in the intervening year,s I’ve taken hairpins and sent many a purple sector with high-end direct drive models and budget offerings alike.

As a point of comparison, I dug out Thrustmaster’s similarly priced T128 wheel for a feature, build quality and driving feel reference, setting aside my usual Thrustmaster T-GT II belt-driven wheel (and the sim rig it’s attached to) for a while

Read more about how we test

First reviewed December 2024

Saucony Ride 17 review: A reliable everyday running shoe
3:00 pm |
Author: admin | Category: Computers Gadgets Health & Fitness | Comments: Off

I’m new to the Saucony Ride range but had heard great things about the versatility of the Saucony Ride 17. My everyday road trainer tends to be a Mizuno Wave Rider, Brooks Ghost, or Hoka Skyward X (when I’m in recovery mode), so I was intrigued to see what the Ride 17 could offer. I knew they were one of the best running shoes for easy miles, but since I have switched focus from ultra marathons to half marathons recently, I was curious to see how they stood up during harder sessions.

With major upgrades to the previous version, the Saucony Ride 17 now offers an upgraded Pwrrun+ midsole foam, a new mesh upper, and increased padding around the heel. This culminates in a poppier run during those speed sessions and a closer fit around the midfoot – both welcome improvements.

But it doesn’t reinvent the wheel and maintains its comfortable 8mm drop fit, lightly padded tongue, and reliable road traction. It even copes well on light trails even if the best performance comes from running on harder, drier terrain.

The shape of the inner sole does take a little getting used to but Ride fans may not notice the raised inside arch which I found a little distracting.

The Saucony Ride 17 is available now but if you are looking for a cheaper option the Ride 16 remains a great alternative.

SAUCONY RIDE 17: SPECIFICATIONS

Saucony Ride 17: Price and availability

The Saucony Ride 17 is available at a moderate price on par with most non-carbon-plated shoes. Priced at $140 / £135 / AU$269.98, it can be found at discounted prices, but limited sizes are available. We’ve spotted it at £80.99 in the UK at Pro Direct Sports, at $104.95 in the US on Saucony’s own website, and as low as AU$139.99 on The Athlete’s Foot in Australia.

the soles of the saucony ride 17

(Image credit: Lily Canter)

Saucony Ride 17: Design

  • Engineered mesh upper
  • PWRRUN+ sole
  • 8mm heel-to-toe drop
  • Design score: 3.5/5

The shoe is thoughtfully designed to provide a blend of comfort and support for everyday road running. Its updated engineered mesh upper enhances breathability and offers a tailored fit by contouring closely to the foot. The wider perforations in the mesh allow for increased airflow, helping to keep the foot cool and dry during long runs. High sidewalls ensure stability by cradling the foot, creating a secure and supportive ride.

As someone who prefers a slightly lower heel to drop, I was surprised how quickly I adjusted to the deeper fit. However, this may have been because I was distracted by the internal molding. When slipping the shoes on for the first time I was convinced they were a support shoe, because they felt so similar to the Saucony Guide 15. On closer inspection when I removed the FormFit insole I realised my issue was with the raised inside arch. This felt like it was trying to push my foot outwards as if I were an overpronator. I must admit I was not a fan of this geometry, which aimed to create a rocker effect but actually felt like an unnecessary obstruction.

Faring better was the shoe’s midsole constructed with Saucony’s PWRRUN+ foam, delivering plush cushioning and energy return while maintaining a lightweight feel. This innovative foam enhances both comfort and responsiveness, making it ideal for runners seeking a shoe that can handle both long easy runs and tempo sessions.

The outsole features durable rubber with strategic flex grooves to improve adaptability and efficiency during take-offs and landings. This iteration also boasts increased outsole coverage, providing additional protection and prolonging the shoe’s lifespan.

Finishing touches include a secure lacing system that locks the midfoot in place for a personalized fit. I found this, along with the gentle cushioning in the tongue, and slight padding in the heel, created a comfortable, locked-in feel.

The back of the Saucony Ride 17, side by side on a box

(Image credit: Lily Canter)

Saucony Ride 17: Performance

  • Durable and supportive
  • Moderate level of cushion keeps feet comfortable
  • Can handle light trails together with road
  • Performance: 3.5/5

Given that most of my runs are along the towpath which can become a little leafy and muddy in the winter, these road shoes performed surprisingly well. The white colorway was not the best option for hybrid road and trail runs, however.

Although I was slightly distracted by the shape of the insole, once I got running, I barely noticed the shoes. They seemed to mold to my feet, and I had no niggling feelings that they were too hard or too soft, too sluggish or too bouncy.

I was also impressed with the robustness of the outsole which seemed to handle 40- mile weeks without any wear and tear.

When pushing the pace, they were similar to my Mizuno Wave Rider, albeit with less cushioning, and offered a middle-of-the-road level of propulsion and energy return. While they were not as poppy as a shoe like the Brooks Hyperion Max, they felt like an effective all-rounder, designed for easy to moderate-paced efforts. Ideal for everyday runs but not necessarily the pair you would turn to come race day.

Saucony Ride 17: Should I buy?

Buy it if

You run on roads

The Saucony Ride 17 is an everyday workhorse, ideal for banking the miles thanks to its durability. View Deal

You prefer internal support
If you like a shoe with a big drop, a locked-in feel, and modest arch support these are the perfect companionView Deal

You run mid-distance
The Ride 17 will comfortably handle anything you can throw at it on a regular basis, but if you run up to around 10-15 miles it’ll be in its element, and it’ll last ages.View Deal

Don't buy it if...

You prefer a tactile shoe
 If you like to feel the ground beneath your feet, and usually wear a lower heel-to-toe drop then these might feel too smotheringView Deal

You are looking for ultra cushioning
These are great everyday shoes for middle-distance runners but are not ideal for ultra runners seeking luxurious cushioning for extended periods of timeView Deal

You mostly run on trails

Although the Ride 17 is a decent hybrid shoe for light trails for anything more technical a specialist shoe would be requiredView Deal

Saucony Ride 17: Also consider

For an everyday run around my go- to is always the Mizuno Wave Rider now in its 28th iteration. It has great grip and is super comfortable. Available for £140 in the UK, $140 in the USA and AU$250 in Australia.

For a durable, versatile hybrid road-to-trail shoe I cannot recommend the Merrell Morphlite highly enough. A bargain at £100 in the UK, but even more of a steal at $59.99 in the US.

Shanling HW600 review: wired over-ear headphones that pack a sonic punch, if you’ve got a big head…
1:30 pm |
Author: admin | Category: Audio Computers Gadgets Headphones | Comments: Off

Shanling HW600: Two-minute review

Shanling hasn’t so much dipped a toe into the ‘premium wired over-ear headphones’ market with the HW600 as dived in headfirst. Big, well-appointed, hard-wired planar magnetic headphones are not exactly a rarity, but they’re not all that mainstream either – and the best around tend to come from brands who’ve established their credentials over quite a few years. Meze Audio springs most readily to mind.

The Shanling HW600 have what it takes, though, at least where specification and finish are concerned. An elaborate driver arrangement is concealed inside aluminum-backed, lambskin-fronted earcups, each one hard-wired to a source using braided single crystal copper cable finishing in a 4.4mm balanced termination.

The quality of construction and finish just can’t be argued with, and is well up to the sort of standard the asking price demands to sit among the best wired headphones money can buy.

Shanling HW600 wired headphones on a white surface

(Image credit: Future / Simon Lucas)

Shanling HW600 review: Price & release date

  • Released October 15, 2024
  • Priced: $1099 / £1099 / AU$1699

You almost certainly don’t need me to tell you that Shanling hasn’t made its life easy by pricing its HW600 this way. TechRadar favorites from the likes of Focal, Meze Audio and Sennheiser (to name but three) can be yours for not dissimilar money – so the Shanling HW600 have their work cut out if they’re going to make a positive impression…

Shanling HW600 wired headphones, showing earcup interior, on a white surface

(Image credit: Future / Simon Lucas)

Shanling HW600 review: Specs

Shanling HW600 wired headphones on a white surface

(Image credit: Future / Simon Lucas)

Shanling HW600 review: Features

  • 110mm x 86mm planar magnetic drivers
  • 12Hz - 40kHz frequency response (claimed)
  • 1.5m quad-core cable with 4.4mm termination

Passive, wired headphones don’t tend to be overburdened with features, and that’s certainly the case where the Shanling HW600 are concerned. But it is fair to say the features these headphones do have are without compromise in their specification and entirely fit for purpose.

These are planar magnetic headphones, of course, which explains their head-swamping size. Inside each earcup there’s a 110 x 86mm planar magnetic driver – it’s a mere 8µm thick, printed with a silver-plated aluminum ‘switchback’ coil and sits between 14 neodymium/iron/boron magnets arranged in a seven-a-side assembly.

Shanling is claiming a frequency response of 12Hz - 40Khz and suggests it’s a responsive, easy-to-drive arrangement – a sensitivity rating of 104dB @ 1kHz would seem to bear that out. The single-unit driver structure features a pair of acoustic chambers, which Shanling says makes for minimal distortion as well as delivering its desired sonic performance.

Each earcup is wired, using a standard 3.5mm connector - which means it should be easy enough to swap the cable if you so desire. It’s worth giving Shanling’s cable a good long listen before you rush into anything, though – it’s a 1.5m length of loosely braided single crustal copper wire, and features a balanced 4.4mm termination. There’s a 6.3mm adapter in the packaging too.

  • Features score: 5/5

Shanling HW600 wired headphones, showing wired connections, on a white surface

(Image credit: Future / Simon Lucas)

Shanling HW600 review: Sound quality

  • Spacious, well-defined sonic layout
  • Punch and drive, dynamism and detail in equal measure
  • Can sound slightly monotonal at the very bottom of the frequency range

Some headphones prioritize excitement and entertainment, and sacrifice analysis and insight in the process. Some headphones prefer to conduct a sort of aural audit of a recording, examining every nook and cranny, and can be a rather dull and undemonstrative listen as a result. And some, like the Shanling HW600, try to do a bit of everything.

The good news here is that the HW600 manage to do a bit of everything with a fair amount of success. The balance they strike between ‘entertainment’, ‘musicality’ and ‘analysis’ is expertly judged, and as a result they’re good company no matter the sort of listening you’re interested in doing or the sort of stuff you want to listen to while you do it.

A 24bit/88.2kHz FLAC file of Get Lucky by Daft Punk feat. Pharrell Williams is a hi-fi cliché these days, but for good reason. And when served by the HW600 via an iFi iDSD Diablo 2 headphone amplifier, its ubiquity is perfectly understandable. It allows the headphones to demonstrate their ability to describe an open, well-defined and carefully controlled soundstage, and to give appropriate weighting to the spaces, as well as the instruments, on it. It’s got the sort of rapid-fire low-frequency presence that lets the HW600 show off their control of attack and decay, and as a consequence their rhythmic certainty. And its mixture of textures and tones, as well as the close-mic’d nature of its vocal line, lets the Shanling demonstrate impressively neutral tonality and winningly even frequency response.

Detail levels are high throughout, and there’s more than enough substance at the top of the frequency range to balance out the brilliance the HW600 lend to treble sounds. Mid-range insight is straightforwardly accomplished – there’s no secret of Williams’ technique that the Shanling aren’t party to, and they’re more than happy to put everything into convincing context.

There’s more than enough dynamic headroom available to make the shifts in intensity during Eartheater’s How To Fight absolutely obvious, and the sort of attention they pay to the harmonic variations during Arvo Pärt’s Cantus in Memoriam Benjamin Britten is approaching the fanatical. The textures and overlaps of that last recording are given full expression by the HW600, and as a result the sound is multi-faceted where, in less capable hands, it can come across as repetitive and monochrome.

Really, about the only area where the Shanling don’t perform with complete confidence is at the very bottom of the frequency range. The HW600 dig deep, most certainly, and they hit with solid assurance – there’s nothing powder puff about the low-frequency impact these headphones can summon. And up to a point, there’s plenty of variation and fine detail available at the same time. Beyond that point, though, down at the very depths of their extension, the Shanling lose some of their insight and simply rumble.

There’s no light or shade to the deepest bass notes here, no suggestion of texture or detail. If it’s ever going to be an issue, it will affect those who listen to a lot of EDM or other content that relies on low-end eloquence. The rest of us might just note it in passing and get on with enjoying the other 99 per cent of the reproduction of the frequency range.

  • Sound quality score: 4.5/5

Shanling HW600 wired headphones' jack on a white surface

(Image credit: Future / Simon Lucas)

Shanling HW600 review: Design

  • Friction-pole headband adjustment
  • Make liberal use of lambskin
  • 480g

Planar magnetic headphones, simply as a consequence of the technology they use, tend to be on the large side. But there’s ‘large’ and then there’s the Shanling HW600. I’m 6ft tall, and I flatter myself that my head is of proportionate size, but the HW600 just about fit me when adjusted to be as small as possible. So if you’re fortunate enough to be on the petite side, you can forget it.

Let’s assume, though, that your head is large enough to be accommodated comfortably inside the Shanling. You’ll find yourself wearing a pair of comfortable, nicely finished headphones that disguise their 480g weight well thanks to a carefully considered hanger arrangement. The earpads are of angled memory foam covered in lambskin, and there’s more of this rather divisive material forming the thin contact area of the headband. Between the two-tier headband arrangement and the rather rudimentary friction-pole headband adjustment mechanism, the HW600 are more than a little reminiscent of some of Meze Audio’s pricier over-ear designs. Imitation is the sincerest form of flattery and all that.

The outside of the earcups, as well as the yokes and outer portion of the headband, are made of aircraft-grade ‘7xxx’ aluminum – it feels almost as good as it looks. The design of the outer part of the earcups is, says Shanling, inspired by the traditional method of creating bamboo joints. It’s quite elegant and understated, and it prevents the HW600 looking as assertively open-backed as they otherwise might.

  • Design score: 4/5

Shanling wired headphones headband on a white surface

(Image credit: Future / Simon Lucas)

Shanling HW600 review: Value

  • Premium materials, flawlessly deployed…
  • … and plenty of them
  • Successful in virtually every area of audio performance

Expensive(ish) headphones are always tricky in this respect. They need to be reasonably light in order to be comfortable, and until you get up close a pricey pair can look very much like an affordable pair.

But Shanling has given it a go where perceived value is concerned, there’s no arguing with the fit and finish, and sound quality is well up to the sort of standard the asking price demands. If you can live with the liberal use of lambskin, there’s definite value here.

  • Value score: 4.5/5

Closeup of the headband of the Shanling HW600 wired headphones

(Image credit: Future / Simon Lucas)

Should I buy the Shanling HW600?

Shanling HW600 wired headphones

(Image credit: Future / Simon Lucas)

Buy them if...

You like nice things
As long as you’re fine with all of these materials, it’s hard not to admire the job Shanling has done where building and finishing the HW600 is concerned

You’re a bit of an iconoclast
Just because you’re spending big money on headphones, it doesn’t automatically follow that the big, storied brands are the only ones worth considering

You enjoy a vivid, widescreen sound
The HW600 are a spacious, properly defined listen that will never leave you in any doubt as to the position of elements on a stage relative to each other

Don't buy them if...

Your head is even remotely petite
Big money in this instance buys big sound and big headphones – anyone with a smaller-than-average bonce might find the HW600 a bit much

You’re vegetarian
Another day, another audio brand that can’t see beyond animal hide as shorthand for ‘luxury’

You value low-frequency insight above everything else
Down at the very bottom of the bottom end, the Shanling lose a little of their otherwise-forensic insight and become rather more monotonal

Shanling HW600 review: Also consider

Meze Audio Liric
Visually the Shanling HW600 have a fair bit in common with Meze Audio’s Liric wired over-ear headphones – and now Liric 2 are available, the original is down to HW600 money. ‘Different to’ rather than overtly ‘better’ or ‘worse’ than the Shanling, the Liric are a confident and rigorously controlled listen.
Read our Meze Audio Liric review for the full story.

Fiio FT5
If you’re after some planar magnetic goodness without pushing the boat quite so far out, you should pay attention to the FT5 by FiiO. They’re just as big as the Shanling, just as sonically accomplished on a pound-for-pound basis… and they’re frankly a bit of a bargain.
See our Fiio FT5 review for the full story

How I tested the Shanling HW600

  • Connected to an iFi Diablo 2 and a FiiO M15S
  • Music of many different styles and resolutions
  • Tested for well over a week

Being temporarily light on full-size equipment with anything other than a 3.5mm headphone socket, I used the HW600 connected directly to a FiiO M15S hi-res digital audio player via its 4.4mm output. I also plugged them into an iFi iDSD Diablo headphone amplifier, again via the 4.4mm connection, which was in turn connected to an Apple MacBook Pro running Colibri software.

And then I listened to a lot of different styles of music, of various file types and sizes, on a fairly strict ‘10am - 5pm’ basis for the entirety of a working week while taking time to compare the sound of the Shanling to a few appropriate alternatives I have about the place…

Lenovo Legion Tower 5i (Gen 8) review
4:46 am |
Author: admin | Category: Computers Computing Desktop PCs Gadgets | Tags: , , | Comments: Off

Lenovo Legion Tower 5i : One-minute review

Lenovo Legion Tower 5i, side panel off to expose the components inside

(Image credit: Future / John Loeffler)

Compared to it’s bigger 7i sibling, the Lenovo Legion Tower 5i is a smaller budget pre-build that starts at $1,149. This gaming desktop is well suited for anyone looking for a rig that handles 1080p gaming without much noise and is big enough to upgrade later on.

The base configuration features an Intel Core i5, Nvidia RTX 4060, 16GB DDR5 RAM and 1TB SSD. Gamers who want to play newer AAA titles at mid-to-high settings in 1080p like Black Myth: Wukong or aspiring competitive gamers in need of high frame rates for games like Valorant should definitely keep this in mind. Everything from CPU to GPU alongside storage or RAM can be configured to more powerful components - for an extra cost of course - to suit your needs.

Outside of performance specs, the Legion Tower 5i has some extras that help it stand out amongst the fierce competition. Cooling is handled by several 150w fans alongside a VRM heatsink which keeps the desktop from overheating. Like the 7i, the rig stays quiet even during the most demanding tasks.

The front panel Lenovo logo and fans feature ARGB lighting which grants users control of each LED individually. This adds a bit of flair to the desktop but not as much as the i7 which featured lighting on the GPU and CPU. Finally, the Legion Tower 5i features Nahimic 3D audio for virtual surround sound.

Everything including performance, lighting and Nahimic are controlled through Lenovo’s Vantage application that comes packed in. For added measure, there’s also a keyboard and mouse included in the box.

The Legion 5i’s design does carry over certain problems of the bigger 7i. Though the mesh bezel at the front of the desktop allows proper airflow, maintenance is going to be a bit of a pain as there’s no dust filtration capabilities available.

Meanwhile, there are plenty of ports available sans a single USB-C which users may find issue with. In an age where USB-C is the current standard for many mobile devices, mouses, keyboards and headsets, this means users may need to stock up on adaptors or get a hub.

If those issues don’t matter more than the gaming experience, the Legion Tower 5i should be kept in consideration. It’s 1080p performance is respectable, well ventilated design that’s peaceful sounding and upgradability that potential buyers will appreciate.

Lenovo Legion Tower 5i: Price and availability

Lenovo Legion Tower 5i logo

(Image credit: Future / John Loeffler)
  • How much does it cost? Starts at $1,149/ £1,080 / AU $1,799
  • When is it available? Now
  • Where can you get it? Available in the US, UK, and Australia

The Lenovo Legion Tower 5i is available now in U.S., UK, and Australia territories starting at $1,149 / £1,080 / AU $1,799. Potential buyers can purchase the pre-build gaming desktop through Lenovo’s online store or various other retailers depending on the territory.

In the U.S., there are five configurations available that range between the previously mentioned starting price and $2,399. That higher-priced tier will get you an Intel Core i7 14700F, Nvidia RTX 4070 Ti Super, 32GB RAM and 1TB SSD in storage.

For those living in the UK, there’s only one buildable option that ranges between £1,080 and £2,187. At the lower end, users will get an Core i7 14700F, Nvidia RTX 4060, 16GB RAM and 1TB SSD in storage. The higher £2,187 configuration grants an Intel i9, Nvidia RTX 4070 Ti Super, 64GB RAM and 2TB SSD.

Four customizable configurations for Australia range between AU $1,799 and AU $5,359. At the lower end, potential buyers can get an Intel i5, Nvidia RTX 4060, 16GB RAM and 512GB SSD. An Intel i7, Nvidia RTX 4070 Super, 32GB RAM, 1TB SSD alongside an extra 2TB HDD in storage is available at the highest configuration tier.

Value: 4 / 5

Lenovo Legion Tower 5i : Specs

Lenovo Legion Tower 5i : Design

Lenovo Legion Tower 5i gaming PC resting on a table

(Image credit: Future / John Loeffler)
  • Roomy enough for future upgrades
  • Has ARGB lighting
  • Dust maintenance will be a problem

The mesh front grill featuring the Legion logo with ARGB lighting sets a nice impression of something that could fit in an office space as well as a gaming set-up. The all-black colorway blends really well with the lighting as the mesh design also manages to lend a level of aggression.

As mentioned previously, only the fans and Legion logo are lit unlike the 7i which has CPU and GPU lighting too. Though the mesh on the front looks terrific, it does come at the cost of function in terms of maintenance. It might be a bit difficult to clean every nook and cranny as dust accumulates over time. Thankfully, the case is big enough for upgrades over time in the CPU, GPU and storage area as well.

Image 1 of 4

Lenovo Legion Tower 5i's top USB and audio ports

(Image credit: Future / John Loeffler)
Image 2 of 4

Back side of the Lenovo Legion Tower 5i gaming pc, showcasing its ports and rear ventilation

(Image credit: Future / John Loeffler)
Image 3 of 4

Computer mouse that comes included with the Lenovo Legion Tower 5i gaming pc

(Image credit: Future / John Loeffler)
Image 4 of 4

Keyboard that comes included with the Lenovo Legion Tower 5i

(Image credit: Future / John Loeffler)

There are loads of ports available on the Legion Tower 5i, including 8 USB-A ports of various power delivery capabilities alongside standard audio and ethernet ports. Those are split between the top panel and the rear with two USB-A ports alongside singular jacks for headset and microphone. It’s a shame that there’s only one singular USB-C, which at this point and time is a bit strange. There are plenty of accessories like controllers, VR headsets, mouses, keyboards and headsets that use USB-C alongside most modern mobile devices.

For potential buyers who have devices that require USB-C, some adapters or hubs are going to be required. One thing for sure is that the included keyboard and mouse within the package isn’t going to make serious gamers happy as they lack the function of even the most budget gaming centered input devices. However, those who are new into PC gaming might find some usage at the start before moving on.

Design: 3.5 / 5

Lenovo Legion Tower 5i : Performance

Lenovo Legion Tower 5i gaming PC's Intel Core i5 logo sticker

(Image credit: Future / John Loeffler)
  • 1080p performance is fantastic
  • Isn’t loud even when pushed

One of the first games I played on the Lenovo Legion Tower 5i was Warhammer 40,000 Space Marine 2. Though the lower 8GB of VRAM on the RTX 4060 prevented the ability to play the game at max settings, it looked great at mid-to-low settings and provided consistent 60 frames per second at 1080p resolution. This was consistent with other games played with high visual fidelity on the gaming desktop.

Cyberpunk 2077 at Ultra settings gave us 82 fps and dropped to the mid-60s when using mid ray tracing settings. Playing the ultra resource intensive Senua’s Saga: Hellblade 2 provided around 30 fps on mid to low settings too.

Lenovo Legion Tower 5i: Benchmarks

Here's how the Lenovo Legion 5i performed in our suite of benchmark tests:

3DMark: Speed Way: 2578; Fire Strike: 21744; Time Spy: 10060

GeekBench 6: 2362 (single-core); 11791 (multi-core)

Total War: Warhammer III (1080p, Ultra): 85 fps; (1080p, Low): 226 fps

Cyberpunk 2077 (1080p, Ultra): 82 fps; (1080p, Low): 127 fps

Dirt 5 (1080p, Ultra): 97.43333333 fps; (1080p, Low):198.2666667 fps

Handbrake (1080p, Fast): 5:33

There are a few ways to get more performance out of the Legion 5i as well. The first is through Nvidia’s DLSS upscaling technology which uses artificial intelligence to bump up resolutions. This is a great way to get 1440p resolution without the worry of frame rate drops. The other way is through the Lenovo Vantage application which allows for some overclocking for CPU and GPU performance.

On the esports side of things, playing games at recommended settings at 1080p provided great results as well. For example, playing Valorant on those settings pushed us into the 200+ frame rate range. I saw similar results for other titles including Fortnite and Call of Duty: Warzone. Games that are somewhat in the middle between visual fidelity and competitive performance like Forza Motorsport were able to run on recommended settings at 60 fps.

When it comes to general computing tasks, the Legion Tower 5i is speedy where it counts from using Google Chrome to music streaming services like Tidal. Creatives will be happy to know that Adobe Suite software like Photoshop and Premiere Pro works great for media that stays within the 1080p range. When it comes to Premiere Pro, trying to edit complex 4K video may lead to some issues in regards to sluggish prformance.

Performance: 4.5 / 5

Lenovo Legion Tower 5i front panel

(Image credit: Future / John Loeffler)

Should I buy the Lenovo Legion Tower 5i?

Buy it if…

You need some solid 1080p performance

Native 1080p performance is pretty good on the Lenovo Legion Tower 5i from esports titles like Valorant to big-budget AAA titles like Black Myth: Wukong.

You want a quiet gaming rig

Lenovo put a nice focus on cooling technology for a gaming desktop that doesn’t get loud when under pressure.

You require an affordable price point

$1,149 is great for budget gamers looking for 1080p performance and the ability to upgrade in the future.

Don’t buy it if…

You want better maintenance opportunities

The Lenovo Legion Tower 5i case doesn’t have removable panes to prevent the build-up of dust, which will make maintenance in the future a pain.

You need more than one USB-C

USB-C is a standard at this point for many mobile devices and accessories. This means that users are probably going to have to invest in a hub or adaptor.

Also Consider

If our Lenovo Legion Tower 5i review has you considering other options, here are two gaming desktops to consider...

HP Victus 15L

The HP Victus 15L is a bit cheaper than the 8th-gen Lenovo Legion Tower 5i and provides comparable performance power.

Read our full HP Victus 15L review

Acer Predator Orion 3000

Beyond the compact form, this gaming desktop packs a punch at an affordable price.

Read our full Acer Predator Orion 3000 review

How I tested the Lenovo Legion 5i

  • Tested over a week and some change
  • Games played include Warhammer 40,000 Space Marine 2, Black Myth: Wukong and Forza Motorsport (2023)
  • General computing tasks including Google Chrome and Adobe Creative Suite

I spent over a week using the Lenovo Legion Tower 5i, putting it to the test across various tasks. During work hours, I managed everyday computing using Google Chrome, running multiple tabs for apps like Asana, Google Docs, and Hootsuite. For content creation, I leaned on Adobe Premiere and Photoshop to design graphics and produce short-form social media videos.

To evaluate its high frame rate capabilities, I played fast-paced games like Valorant and Fortnite. Pushing the system further, I tested graphically demanding titles like Warhammer 40,000: Space Marine 2 and Black Myth: Wukong. Additionally, I also ran Forza Motorsport (2023) and Starfield to assess how the Legion Tower 5i handles diverse gaming experiences and visual performance.

I’ve spent the past several years covering monitors alongside other PC components for TechRadar. Outside of gaming, I’ve been proficient in Adobe Suite for over a decade as well.

First reviewed October 2024

WD Black SN850P review: one to grab on sale
5:00 pm | December 28, 2024
Author: admin | Category: Computers Gadgets Gaming Gaming Accessories | Tags: | Comments: Off

WD Black SN850P: One-minute review

As a big proponent of the WD Black SN850, I can’t deny that I’m a little disappointed with the WD Black SN850P. Although faster on paper, I found that the real-world performance of the SN850P actually lags behind that of the older SN850 - even scoring slightly lower in the PS5's internal storage benchmark. The design has taken a bit of a step back this time around too, as the SN850P ditches the cool, though admittedly slightly impractical, LED of its predecessor in favor of a much plainer, and presumably cheaper to manufacture, look.

This wouldn’t be a huge issue, but the SN850P comes in a little more expensive than not only the SN850 but also some of the best SSDs for PS5. When officially licensed alternatives like the Seagate Game Drive M.2 SSD for PS5 can be found cheaper and will run a bit better, there’s no real reason to pick up the SN850P above the rest. That is unless you manage to find the 1TB or 2TB models on one of their fairly regular discounts, where price cuts of up to $50 / £30 make these products much more competitive.

There are also the larger capacity variants to consider. Seagate’s licensed drive doesn’t come in capacities above 2TB, so the SN850P is one of the only options if you want to keep things official at that size. The 8TB variant is also one of the few 8TB PS5 SSDs on the market right now from a major brand and is quite reasonably priced for what it is. If it’s either of these versions that you were considering, add half a star to the score above.

Otherwise, the WD Black SN850P is underwhelming on the whole. It’s a fine PS5 SSD that, thanks to its slightly overambitious price tag, fails to stand out.

The WD Black SN850P on a white surface.

(Image credit: Future)

WD Black SN850P: Price and availability

  • 1TB is $119.99 / £107.99
  • 2TB is $189.99 / £184.99
  • 4TB is $319.99 / £329.99
  • 8TB is $749.99 / £705.99

The 1TB WD Black SN850P retails for $119.99 / £107.99, though can be found hovering slightly below that price at online storefronts such as Amazon. The 2TB costs $189.99 / £184.99, though again you can expect to pay a little less if you buy online.

Outside of sales, both these models cost a bit more than the Seagate Game Drive M.2 SSD for PS5 equivalents (the 1TB model goes for $99.99 / £99.90 while 2TB is $159.99 / £159.90) - again, a drive that performed slightly better in my testing.

The cost then increases substantially as you move towards the 4TB model, which is $319.99 / £329.99, or 8TB, which goes for a massive $749.99 / £705.99. Although the most recent arrival, the 8TB has already started receiving discounts of about $50 / £50 that put the price in line with most other 8TB PS5 compatible SSDs making it a solid option if you can afford it.

WD Black SN850P: Specs

WD Black SN850P: Design and features

  • Design is a step down from the SN850
  • Heatsink included out of the box
  • 5-year limited warranty

The design of the WD Black SN850P is, in my opinion, a step down from the SN850. It’s got a similar overall look, with a sleek black heatsink constructed from a very robust feeling metal but lacks the little LED that was on top of the SN850. This was never a huge selling point, after all, you can’t exactly see it when it’s been inserted inside a PS5. But it still makes for an SSD that looks a bit cheaper on the whole.

Otherwise, you have the same white WD Black branding, plus a little label stating the name of the product. One noticeable departure is the introduction of a white PlayStation logo on the right-hand side, which matches everything nicely.

Although it looks very similar from a distance, the heatsink has actually been redesigned with a slightly different shape and a few more gaps for dispersing heat. Given that I never experienced any noticeable thermal throttling on the SN850, I can’t say that this seems necessary but it definitely doesn’t hurt. It also fits perfectly in the PS5 or PS5 Pro.

In the box, you get the SSD in a little clamshell package, in addition to some warranty and service information. You’re covered by a five-year limited warranty here, which does offer some peace of mind and means that this drive will likely see you through the rest of the PS5’s life if you opt to get one.

The rear of the WD Black SN850P.

(Image credit: Future)

WD Black SN850P: Performance

  • Performance could be better for the price
  • Initial benchmark score was very poor
  • Reasonable results in real-world tests

When I first inserted the WD Black SN850P, the PS5’s internal benchmark measured it as a shockingly low 5,966 MB/s. This is still above the recommended SSD specs for the console, but nowhere near the advertised 7,300 MB/s or really what you would reasonably expect from a drive at this price. Luckily, when I reformatted the drive and ran the test again a little later it scored a more reasonable 6,338 MB/s so I’ll chalk that first number up to chance.

This second figure was still lower than I wanted, though, as the SN850, which is actually advertised with a 7,000 MB/s read speed, achieves figures in the 6,400 MB/s range on my machine. It also puts this behind the Seagate Game Drive M.2 SSD for PS5, which recorded 6,459 MB/s.

Thankfully, the WD Black SN850P did fairly well in a series of real-world tests. Moving to the drive from the PS5’s internal storage, a 23.24GB copy of Vampire the Masquerade: Swansong was copied in just 12.61 seconds. A 33.35GB installation of Lords of the Fallen then took 15.89 seconds, while a 45.98GB installation of The Crew Motorfest took 21.02 seconds.

Testing some larger files, 101.9GB of Far Cry 6 took 43.74 seconds to copy while a selection of multiple games totalling 226.9GB copied in 3 minutes and 14 seconds. These figures are all adequate and not more than a few seconds behind equivalent transfers on the Seagate Game Drive M.2 SSD for PS5.

Copying back to the PS5, the 21.30GB Granblue Fantasy Versus: Rising was ready to play in 1 minute 27 seconds, while Stellar Blade, which is 32.41GB, took 2 minutes and 15 seconds. Finally, the 38.34GB Tiny Tina’s Wonderlands copied back in 2 minutes and 34 seconds. These figures are all perfectly adequate, and realistically more dependent on the PS5’s internal write speed than anything else.

Ultimately, you’re not going to run into any performance problems using the WD Black SN850P. Every game I tested was smooth, with decent loading times and no noticeable slowdown. Just bear in mind that, unless you buy on sale, you can get drives with more oomph for the price.

The logo on the front of the WD Black SN850P.

(Image credit: Future)

Should I buy the WD Black SN850P?

Buy it if...

You find it on sale
The WD Black SN850P frequently goes on sale and if you manage to find it with a decent discount, it could be a much better value PS5 SSD.

You want an 8TB drive
The WD Black SN850P is one of the few PS5 compatible SSD drives available from a big brand in an 8TB capacity. It’s worth picking up if you’re in the market for the biggest possible storage upgrade.

Don't buy it if...

You want the greatest value
The 1TB and 2TB models could be cheaper. When there’s such strong competition, there are plenty of alternatives you can pick up that save a few bucks and run a bit better.

Also consider...

Wondering what to choose instead of the WD Black SN850P? Check out these alternatives. You can also see our guide to the best PS5 external hard drives for some external options.

Seagate Game Drive M.2 SSD for PS5
This officially licensed drive from Seagate comes in a bit cheaper than the WD Black SN850P, but performs slightly better in the real world. It’s the one to pick if you want an officially licensed drive.

For more information, check out our full Seagate Game Drive M.2 SSD for PS5 review

Kingston Fury Renegade SSD
This model is cheaper than the WD Black SN850P and much faster, clocking an impressive 6,500 MB/s score on the internal PS5 benchmark. Choose this for more bang for your buck.

For more information, check out our full Kingston Fury Renegade SSD review

The WD Black SN850P in the hands.

(Image credit: Future)

How I tested the Seagate Game Drive M.2 SSD for PS5

  • Used as primary PS5 SSD
  • Tested over the course of a week
  • Tested with a range of titles

I tested the WD Black SN850P over the course of a week, using it as my primary PS5 SSD drive and playing a wide variety of games from it. During my time with the drive, I was careful to look for any noticeable impacts on performance compared to the console’s internal storage.

I also assessed the drive’s performance using the built-in PS5 storage benchmark and by copying a large library of games in order to measure the time taken. I compared my experience to my hands-on testing of other PS5 SSD models including the Samsung 990 Pro, WD Black SN850, Seagate Game Drive M.2 SSD for PS5, and more.

Read more about how we test

First reviewed December 2024.

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