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Lexar Professional Silver Plus microSDXC UHS-I Card review
10:11 pm | August 10, 2024

Author: admin | Category: Computers Gadgets Pro | Comments: Off

Lexar Professional Silver Plus MicroSD: One-minute review

Lexar is one of the leading manufacturers of flash memory and has been a trusted name for photographers and videographers in the creative sector for years. The Silver Plus line of SD and MicroSD cards are positioned as the mid to high-end storage option. 

In this review, we've looked at the 128GB MicroSD, which boasts impressive transfer rates of up to 205MB/s, which, considering that this is a UHS-I card rather than the newer UHS-II card, is even more impressive. We've tested all the best microSD cards and best SD cards, and this card has been designed to work with the latest tech, including cameras, drones, as well as phones and gaming consoles. The speed and price of this card mean that it's an ideal solution for professional use, with the premium price boosting some of the features, especially the transfer rates above what most consumer electronics need.

As the card itself follows the usual MicroSD/TF format, it fits neatly and with ease into any device that accepts the format, although, as ever, the small size of the card will inevitably make it fiddly to handle for anyone with larger hands. Likewise, the dual-tone black and silver colour can be a pain to locate if you drop it on the forest floor, such as when using a GoPro or doing the dust test for this review. Although once in situ within a device, the large capacity means there's unlikely to be any need to swap it out for a replacement.

Performance-wise, the card demonstrates impressive transfer rates close to, and in most cases exceeding, the transfer speeds quoted by Lexar and more than fast enough to meet the U3, V30, and A2 speed classes awarded to it.

Overall, the Silver Plus microSDXC performs well and is a great solution for extending the storage capacity of your mobile phone, action camera, drone, or any other device that needs a boost in storage capacity. However, do be aware that if you need to switch between cards, the black and silver colouring may not be the best option if you're using this in an action camera where it could easily be lost, especially amongst the leaves, twigs and dirt.

Lexar Professional Silver Plus MicroSDXC: Pricing and availability

  • How much does it cost? $19
  • When is it available? Now
  • Where can you get it? It is available for sale in the US, UK and Australia

The Lexar Silver Plus microSDXC UHS-I Card is available in different capacities, including 1TB, 512GB, 256GB, 128G and 64 GB. The 128GB version looked at in this review is ideal for gaming devices, smartphones, and tablets and is available for purchase at Amazon. 

The card is widely available, but the price may vary. It can be purchased from retailers such as Amazon, Target, B & H Photo, or directly on the Lexar website.

Lexar Professional SILVER PLUS microSDXC UHS-I Card

(Image credit: Alastair Jennings)

Lexar Professional Silver Plus MicroSDXC: Benchmark

Using AJA System Test Light, the Silver Plus MicroSDXC achieved impressive transfer speeds with a max read speed of 205.54MB/s and a write speed of 182.21MB/s; this actually exceeds the stated write speed from the manufacturer. These speeds show the drive's capability to handle large files and demanding applications.

Lexar Professional SILVER PLUS microSDXC UHS-I Card

(Image credit: Alastair Jennings)

Lexar Professional Silver Plus MicroSDXC: Specs

Lexar Professional Silver Plus MicroSDXC: Build and Handling

The Lexar Professional Silver Plus microSDXC UHS-I Card meets the form factor requirements for the MicroSD format and fits perfectly into the GoPro Hero 12, DJI Mavic Pro 3, and, with the adapter, the Sony Alpha 7 IV. In addition to imaging devices, the card was also tested on various mobile phones, including the Doogee VMAX Plus. In all devices, from cameras to smartphones and tablets, the Lexar Silver Plus fitted without issue.

As with all microSD cards, it is small and can be tricky to handle. Thankfully, Lexar has included an SD card adapter for microSD in the package, making it compatible with any device that accepts SD cards. This is particularly useful for many laptops and computers that might feature an SD card slot but not a microSD card slot.

The Silver Plus microSD card's build quality is excellent, aligning with Lexar's reputation for high-quality products. One point to note about this card is the colour scheme, with its duo tone being black and silver. While aesthetically pleasing, it can be slightly tricky to locate if dropped outdoors. However, once inside a device, the 128GB capacity means you are very unlikely to have to remove it frequently.

The microSD card conforms to all usual standards in terms of build, handling, and design, ensuring compatibility with most devices. While UHS-I technology might not be the latest, Lexar's choice ensures absolute compatibility with both the latest tech and slightly older devices.

Lexar Professional SILVER PLUS microSDXC UHS-I Card

(Image credit: Alastair Jennings)

Lexar Professional Silver Plus MicroSD: Features

When it comes to features, the main focus here is the high transfer speeds, reaching up to 205MB/s read and 150MB/s write. This is very similar to the standard Silver cards, which come in at 205MB/s read and 140MB/s write. These are the maximum transfer rates achievable in certain devices.

These transfer rates mean that if your smartphone, action camera, or drone shoots 4K video at a high bit rate, this card will keep up with the demand. The card is awarded V30 class, indicating a minimum write speed of 30MB/s, making it suitable for high-resolution video recording.

It also features an A2 app performance class, highlighting its ability to handle data demands from most apps on smartphones and tablets. Lexar has also released the Lexar RW310X reader, a USB Type-C or Type-A memory stick designed to maximise the transfer rates of the Silver Plus microSD and other memory cards. Using this reader, the card achieves its full potential, although it remains fast with other readers as well.

The Silver Plus microSD card is also built tough, with certifications for IPX7 waterproofing, temperature proofing, x-ray proofing, vibration resistance, magnetic proofing, shockproofing, and drop-proofing. This ensures durability in various environments.

The card includes the Lexar Recovery Tool, which helps recover accidentally deleted files, adding to the peace of mind. As always, all Lexar products undergo rigorous testing in the Lexar Quality Labs, ensuring performance, quality, compatibility, and reliability.

The Silver Plus microSD card features impressive features, including high capacities, excellent transfer speeds considering UHS-I technology, broad compatibility, and robust durability.

Lexar Professional SILVER PLUS microSDXC UHS-I Card

(Image credit: Alastair Jennings)

Lexar Professional Silver Plus MicroSD: Performance

Through testing, the Silver Plus microSD card was used in a GoPro Hero 12, DJI Mavic Pro 3, and in our recently reviewed Doogee V MAX Plus rugged phone. Environmental tests included; dropping the card from 1.5 meters onto a dusty forest floor, subjecting it to moisture in a rain shower, submerging it in water for 30 minutes before drying it out and retesting it in the devices.

In all tests, the card performed flawlessly. It handled maximum resolution recordings without issue in the GoPro Hero 12 and DJI Mavic Pro 3, storing raw and high-bitrate video files seamlessly. The 128GB capacity was sufficient for capturing 4K video at all high-resolution options, and even when shooting in the GP-Log and D-Log, which are REC 709 colour modes for each card, it handles the files without issue.

Compared to the GoPro Hero12 Black and the DJI Mavic Pro 3, the Doogee VMAX Plus's microSD card demands are relatively light. However, even here, the card expanded internal storage easily, storing video and other files without any problems. 

With the real-world tests completed without issue, it was time to subject the cards to the Benchmarking performance tests, which were equally impressive. Using the Lexar RW310X reader, the card achieved its full potential, meeting and surpassing the speeds quoted by Lexar. The tests were carried out on the Geekcom AX8 Pro mini PC and showed the card's capability to maintain high transfer rates under prolonged writing conditions, demonstrating consistent performance.

Once all the basic tests were complete, the card was then subjected to a few more physical tests, starting with being dropped from a height of 1.5m onto a hard floor. In this test, there was little effect on the card. The 1g weight meant that there wasn't even a mark on the exterior, and when speed checks were retested, the results reflected the original. 

In the next test, the card was dropped on the dusty forest floor and covered in dust and leaves. Again, once the card was located, dusted down well, and rechecked, the performance remained the same. Likewise, in the water test, the card was dropped into a glass of water and left for 30 minutes, dried for a couple of days and then rechecked - again, the care worked and performed to the same standard as before the physical checks. 

Lexar Professional SILVER PLUS microSDXC UHS-I Card

(Image credit: Alastair Jennings)

Should I buy the Lexar Professional Silver Plus MicroSDXC?

Overall, the Lexar Professional Silver Plus microSDXC UHS-I Card is an impressive storage option that meets all microSD card regulations. With UHS-I technology rather than UHS-II, it is fully compatible with almost any device that accepts microSD cards. The 128GB capacity will be sufficient for most professional uses. 

The card performed well in high-demand environments, such as action cameras and drones, with more than enough capacity for extended use. It excelled in benchmark tests, maintaining high transfer rates even under sustained usage.

The only reservation is the dual black and silver colour, which can be difficult to locate if dropped outdoors. However, for professional use where performance and reliability are paramount, the Lexar Silver Plus is a well-balanced choice considering its price, capacity, and transfer speeds.

Buy it if...

Don't buy it if...

How I tested the Lexar Professional Silver Plus MicroSDXC

For this test the card was used in several different devices all of which support exFAT. Before starting this test the card was reformated to give the greatest compatibility for the real world tests and also for testing through the benchmarking software.

The softare used included the latest versions of CrystalDiskMark, Atto, AS SSD and AJA benchmarks, noting the best scores achieved in each. They are all free and can be downloaded by anyone. After the standard benchmarks I then use the card in a variety of tech, including a GoPro Hero12 Black, Insta360 Ace Pro, DJI Mavic 3 Pro and DJI Mini 4 Pro to ensure compatibility and performance over a sustained period. I then transfer a folder of files, roughly 10GB in size, to get a rough idea of real life performance. 

Lenovo ThinkPad T14 Gen 5 business laptop review
9:17 pm |

Author: admin | Category: Computers Gadgets Pro | Comments: Off

The Lenovo ThinkPad T14 Gen 5 continues the trusted and loved ThinkPad lineup of laptops that Lenovo continues to create with business users in mind. It is yet another durable and reliable business laptop with a robust build, impressive battery, and great ports for connectivity. 

While this laptop is designed for business professionals, it also focuses on more than use in the office. Like so many of the best business laptops we've reviewed - particularly the best Lenovo ThinkPads out there, the T14 Gen 5 is light and portable, perfect for remote and hybrid workers and those constantly moving within a large corporate building. Despite some drawbacks, such as a less vibrant display, the ThinkPad T14 Gen 5 proves to be a solid performer that can handle everyday tasks with ease.

Lenovo ThinkPad T14 Gen 5

(Image credit: Collin Probst // Future)

Lenovo ThinkPad T14 Gen 5: Unboxing & first impressions

The Lenovo ThinkPad T14 Gen 5 comes well packaged in eco-friendly packaging. The laptop, a 65W USB-C charger, and the documentation that Lenovo sends with all laptops are in the box. Right away, setup through Windows 11 on this laptop was easy, and thanks to the SSD, booting up to the start screen was quick and painless.

Moving the laptop around, I quickly realized that Lenovo had built this laptop very well. Finding the balance between thin and durable is lovely—which is always hard to do with laptops. Some super thin devices are incredibly light but snap if you type too hard. The T14 Gen 5 strikes the balance quite nicely. It's slim, but it has a slightly thicker plastic casing that gives a sense that it can take a hit or two and be fine. It makes it feel less premium.

Lenovo ThinkPad T14 Gen 5

(Image credit: Collin Probst // Future)

The laptop's design stays true to the classic ThinkPad aesthetics I've seen with laptops such as the Lenovo ThinkPad X1 Carbon Gen 11. It's simple, functional, minimal, and sleek—excellent design. The keyboard offers a familiar ThinkPad experience with tactile feedback, and the trackpad is large and responsive. The signature red TrackPoint is also present for those who prefer it, paired with the easy-click buttons at the top of the trackpad.

My ThinkPad T14 Gen 5 is grey, but the black colorway would be perfect if you want a sleeker, more minimalist design that blends in a bit more.

Lenovo ThinkPad T14 Gen 5

(Image credit: Collin Probst // Future)

Lenovo ThinkPad T14 Gen 5: Design & build quality

Specs

as tested

Processor: Intel Core Ultra 7 155U
Memory: 16GB
Battery: 52.5Whr
Ports: 2x Thunderbolt 4, 2x USB-A, 1x RJ45, 1x HDMI,

The Lenovo ThinkPad T14 Gen 5 is lightweight and compact, especially for the ports and power. This laptop weighs 2.96 pounds and is less than an inch thick, at 0.70 inches, making it easy to move around and use as a portable machine. The casing comprises recycled plastic and aluminum to help provide a durable yet eco-friendly computer.

The ThinkPad T14 Gen 5 has a wide range of ports, including 2x Thunderbolt 4, 2x USB-A, 1x HDMI, and 1x RJ45 Ethernet. A headphone/mic combo jack ensures versatile connectivity. There is also a smart card reader for those who need an extra level of security.

The keyboard is standard for Thinkpads. It feels the same as all of the other ThinkPads I have used, and it has the same TrackPoint in the middle for easy, quick navigation while keeping your hands on the keyboard. The only change in this model and some of the newer models, in general, is the presence of the Microsoft Copilot key for easily integrated enhanced AI productivity. No matter what you are doing, if you press that key, you launch your AI assistant, which can help with anything from changing settings on your computer to helping create content.

Lenovo ThinkPad T14 Gen 5

(Image credit: Collin Probst // Future)

Lenovo ThinkPad T14 Gen 5: In use

This laptop has been a powerhouse over the last few months. I've worked with it for the previous 90 days, and I am pretty impressed. The keyboard is fantastic, especially for long typing sessions (such as this review). The audio is solid. While it won't blow anyone away, it is suitable for a laptop. The T14 Gen 5 balances durability and a sleek, lightweight design. It's easy to carry, throw into my bag, and carry on its own, yet I don't feel like I need to baby it. I will admit that the plastic casing can give a "less than premium" false narrative by looks alone. Still, as soon as I open the laptop and start working, that narrative is immediately dismissed because this computer is powerful enough for day-to-day work.

One other important aspect of the design is the fantastic battery life. I have been able to go to coffee shops, attend offsite meetings, and work around the house without worrying about finding a power cable. It's been fantastic.

Part of the reason this laptop has a great battery probably has to do with the fact that the display could be more impressive; however, while using this laptop for business uses, I never really felt like I was missing out. I could get everything without feeling held back, limited, or even noticing that it wasn't a great display.

Lenovo ThinkPad T14 Gen 5

(Image credit: Collin Probst // Future)

I have been able to knock out all admin tasks and heavy tracking spreadsheets; I've used this to render 3D models for my 3D printers; it's helped test and drive some of the best business monitors I have tested, helped set up and program some of the other gear I am testing, and has been an all-around fantastic computer. What has been great, too, is utilizing Microsoft Copilot (albeit tastefully) to modify settings so I don't have to go through pages of clicks to give me ideas, answer questions, research, and do conversions, all started with a simple click of a button. It's been super powerful and a massive asset for getting work done efficiently.

Lenovo ThinkPad T14 Gen 5: Final verdict

The Lenovo ThinkPad T14 Gen 5 is a reliable choice for business professionals who prioritize durability and battery life over high-end performance and display quality. Its robust build and extensive connectivity options make it a practical tool for productivity on the move. If you’re looking for a dependable workhorse with a great keyboard and long battery life, the ThinkPad T14 Gen 5 is worth considering -- especially if you want Copilot baked in.


For more performance-driven productivity, we reviewed the best mobile workstations.

Sonos Roam 2 review: a great sounding Bluetooth speaker gets even better
8:00 pm |

Author: admin | Category: Audio Computers Gadgets Hi-Fi Wireless & Bluetooth Speakers | Tags: | Comments: Off

Sonos Roam 2: two-minute review

The Sonos Roam 2 is the brand's latest speaker, and while much of the attention on Sonos lately has been on its app and new Ace headphones, speakers are at the heart of its lineup. These all seamlessly connect with each other for a great listening experience with easy access to plenty of services either in the home or outside. 

The Sonos Roam 2 replaces one of the best Bluetooth speakers, and launched alongside the Sonos Ace headphones with little fanfare and only a handful of changes that were mostly under the hood. The main changes here are an extra button to make setup easier and a slight redesign in terms of colors. 

At $179 / £179 / AU$299, the Roam 2 is certainly not a cheap or an ultra-affordable speaker, but it does get you a Sonos product for that price, and that's what really adds up to a winning device here. Adding a dedicated button on the back lets you more effortlessly switch between using this lightweight speaker on Wi-Fi or Bluetooth. Furthermore, with either, you'll get a stable, drop-free experience – at least I did during my over two months of testing.

The Roam 2 also fits right in with other Sonos products, offering a rich, clear, and balanced experience that doesn't come across as flat, especially the soundstage. Whether it was Bruce Springsteen, Olivia Rodrigo, The Rolling Stones, or Taylor Swift, the Roam 2 sounded great. Thanks to the Automatic Trueplay feature, it also adjusts the mix on its own to make sure it sounds at the same level wherever you are.

It's also very lightweight and easily movable, with a pretty minimalist design that puts the focus on the music versus some fancy party tricks. The let-down, though, is the battery life and that limits how travel-ready the Roam 2 truly is. At 10 hours it falls behind both more expensive and more affordable speakers, which means you'll want to bring a power bank with you.

I’ve spent about three months with the Roam 2, using it at home, on trips to the Jersey Shore, and even on weekend trips, and it's a great speaker. While it isn't an immediate upgrade if you already have a Roam, unless the single button on the back is driving you crazy, the Roam 2 is an excellent option for someone who wants a terrific-sounding Bluetooth speaker that offers a premium build and a higher-end feature list.

Sonos Roam 2 in 'Wave'

(Image credit: Future/Jacob Krol)

Sonos Roam 2 Review: Price and release date

  • $179 / £179 / AU$299
  • Available in Black, White, Olive, Sunset, or Wave
  • Released in May 2024

If you're already sold, the good news is that the Sonos Roam 2 is readily available. Regardless of color, the Roam 2 is priced at $179 / £179 / AU$299 and comes in either Black, White, Olive, Sunset, or Wave. 

This isn't cheap by small portable speaker standards – you can get the likes of the JBL Flip 6 for a lot less, which still sound great. However, you won't get Wi-Fi connectivity too there, so the Sonos brings its own value.

In the box, you'll get some documentation and a USB-C to USB-C cable for charging. You can, of course, bring your own cable or use another, but the Roam 2 can also recharge wirelessly. You're not required to invest in the one that Sonos makes, but it does offer a wireless charger that matches perfectly with the design of the Roam 2 for $49.99.

Sonos Roam 2 review: Specs

The top controls on the Sonos Roam 2.

(Image credit: Future/Jacob Krol)

Sonos Roam 2 review: Features

  • The Roam 2 is both a Bluetooth and Wi-Fi speaker
  • Automatic Trueplay ensures great playback in any environment
  • 10 hours of battery life will leave you wanting more

While Sonos is declaring this the Roam 2, it could probably pass for a Roam 1.5, given the minute changes here. Then again, considering how stellar a wireless speaker the original Roam was – with excellent playback and connectivity – it allowed the brand to fix its shortcomings. 

The biggest advantage over the sea of other Bluetooth speakers available at, above, or below the price is that Roam 2 is a full-throttle Sonos speaker in every sense. For one, it boasts Bluetooth and Wi-Fi connectivity, and thanks to the latter, it fully integrates with the Sonos ecosystem. 

Bluetooth makes the Roam 2 easy to use while on a trip, whether it be to another state, country, or simply to a park. As I’ll discuss in the Design section later, Sonos fixed the biggest gripe with the original by adding a dedicated Bluetooth button – above the one for power – on the back. You can easily connect by just holding the Bluetooth button on the back, seeing the light on the front switch to a glowing blue, and connecting from your phone to play easily from your service or library of choice. 

It also eliminates the requirement of using the Sonos app to use the Roam, and even in Bluetooth, it delivers a rich playback experience. Furthermore, both indoors and outdoors, I had zero Bluetooth connectivity issues or dropouts. 

Wi-Fi connectivity is the key to the integration of the Roam 2 with other Sonos products you may already have in your home. I’ve used the ultra-portable speaker with a Beam 2nd Gen, Era 100, Era 300, and Move 2, and it fits right in. I can easily add it to the mix or first start playing on the Roam 2 and then add the other speakers. It’s also a great speaker to carry around in the home to bring music elsewhere… for me, that was to the bathroom, and it serves excellently as a shower speaker. 

While the Sonos app has had its ups and downs, I still like it because it makes it easy to group speakers together succinctly and places most streaming services – be it the big-hitters like Spotify, Apple Music or Tidal, or hundreds of others – under one roof, and lets you get to streaming pretty easily. It’s still a main selling point here and is different from competing Bluetooth speakers. I also really appreciate the integration of "Automatic Trueplay," which lets the Roam 2 automatically adjust the EQ on the fly through onboard microphones for the best playback possible.

It's a major disappointment that Sonos didn’t expand the battery size or the overall runtime. just like the first-generation, the Roam 2 is rated for 10 hours of playback, and that’s exactly what I’ve been hitting with either Wi-Fi or Bluetooth streaming. 

In two tests, I streamed a long playlist of songs and found that Roam 2 streamed playback with the volume at 60% for 10 hours. I was able to use it for most of the day on the beach and several hours at a time during a BBQ function. For both of these, it was on Bluetooth connectivity, but at home, I tend to move the Roam 2 around, but I generally find myself plugging it in; it’s not perfect, but it is a pretty seamless way to solve the maximum 10 hours of playback. Sonos does include a USB-C to USB-C cable in the box, but you won’t find a power brick or a wireless charger.

Simply, that’s a bit low for a Bluetooth speaker that costs this much, but it’s not a dealbreaker when you consider the other features here, especially if you want something to play within the broader Sonos ecosystem. 

In a similar vein to battery life here, the microphone situation on the Roam 2 is an interesting one. When on Wi-Fi, you can use the built-in voice microphone with Amazon Alexa or Sonos Voice Control. Through this, it acts like an Echo with the former, and with the latter, you can ask Giancarlo Esposito to play your favorite songs. But when on Bluetooth, you can’t use the Roam 2 as a speakerphone or for conference calls. A little strange, but in line with the first-generation.

Even with battery shortcomings and microphone oddities on the Roam 2, these features largely support excellent audio quality and minimalist design quite well. This makes Roam 2 an excellent choice for someone who’s already in or brand-new to the Sonos ecosystem. 

While this is more expensive than smaller Bluetooth speakers and even similarly sized ones like the Beats Pill, the Roam 2 feels higher-end, with excellent sound in a simple build. 

  • Features score: 4/5

Sonos Roam 2 in 'Wave'

(Image credit: Future/Jacob Krol)

Sonos Roam 2 review: Sound Quality

  • Delivers excellent sound that punches far above its size
  • Produces a wide soundstage that doesn't over emphasize bass
  • Great sound quality over Bluetooth or Wi-Fi

And simply, that’s an excellent sound that punches far above the sheer size. The Roam 2, like the original Sonos Roam, is powered by a tweeter, mid-woofer, and two class-H digital amplifiers that are all controlled by Sonos’ sound engineering. That’s a lot of tech jargon, but the Roam 2 produces an excellent sound that works for a broad range of artists, and presents low, mid, and high frequencies quite well.

When just paired over Bluetooth, skipping the Sonos app experience, I think most will be happy with the balanced sound. It’s not necessarily heavy on bass, especially with pop tracks, but it does let that element of a song be heard. 

While playing Born to Run by Bruce Springsteen, the speaker mimics the wall of sound effects quite nicely, letting you hear the various elements of the mix, including guitars, drums, piano, and saxophone. A live cut of Racing In The Street by the same boss lets the piano opening riff and closing interlude flow across various frequency ranges with zero distortion. That’s powerful on its own, but it sounds great when paired with Springtseen’s vocals and the rest of the band kicking in – saxophone, bass, backing guitars, and drums – all at once. 

For most tracks at moderate volumes reaching, say, 80%, the audio experience is both rich and crisp with a wide soundstage that doesn’t feel like it’s compressing any element. You also have the ability to hop into the Sonos app for Android or iOS to adjust the EQ to your liking. Remember, another benefit here is Automatic Trueplay. Like on other Sonos speakers, it will tap the onboard microphones to help tune the mix in real time – for instance, if it needs to lower or up the bass, depending on where you are using it.

I also really enjoyed pop tracks on the Roam 2, like Apple by Charli XCX, which delivered thumping bass with smooth vocals and EDM sounds layered on top, to bad idea right? by Olivia Rodrigo, which showed how the speaker could handle vocals at varying frequencies. 

  • Sound quality score: 4.5/5

Sonos Roam 2 features a dedicated button for Bluetooth connectivity.

(Image credit: Future/Jacob Krol)

Sonos Roam 2 review: Design

  • The Roam 2 doesn't call much attention to itself with a minimalistic build
  • The addition of a Bluetooth button on the back fixes a major issue with the original
  • It's ready for a trip to the beach or a tumble in a park with a IP67 resistance rating

The Roam 2 largely looks like the original Roam. It’s still super portable, either held in hand or tossed into a backpack at just 0.95 lbs and it stands at about the size of a water bottle. It comes in a few shades, and I’m particularly fond of the “Wave” shade, which is essentially a light blue. It’s easy to spot and a bit more fun without popping too much. 

Compared to the original Roam, the second generation is hard to tell apart. One way is that the Sonos logo on the front is now color-matched to the rest of the speaker. It still sits on top of the front grille, which is where the sound gets pushed out. Unlike competing options from, say, Ultimate Ears, the Roam 2 simply pushes sound out the front. That’s something to keep in mind when placing it.

The Roam 2's top and bottom, or end caps, are rubberized, which makes it easy to stand vertically. However, you can also place it horizontally, and four pegs let it rest easily and not shake too much when you’re playing a rock-roll classic or a pop hit at full blast. 

On the top of the Roam 2, you’ll find four physical buttons – microphone on or off, volume down, play or pause, and volume up. They're all easy to find, and unlike on the Sonos Era 100, they aren’t capacitive. Considering you can take this speaker to the beach and toss it in the sand or use it in the rain, this is probably a good design call. I also successfully used it in those two environments and dunked the Roam 2 a few times. It held up just fine, and that’s thanks to its IP67 resistance rating. 

Sonos’ best design decision with the Roam 2 can be witnessed on the back, though. You might recall that the original only had one physical button on the rear that had to be used to turn the Roam on or off, as well as for connectivity. It was a bit of a pain to use, and as someone who’s had an original Roam since launch, I never really forgot the oddity of it. That is rectified here as there are two buttons on the back – a power button and a Bluetooth pairing one. Rejoice! 

This not only makes it easy to turn the Roam on or off, but you can also power it on and immediately use it without having to connect or pair it with the Sonos app on your Android or iOS device. You can immediately start streaming music from an iPhone or any Bluetooth-enabled device.

Lastly, the Roam 2 has a USB-C port on the back that can be used to charge the speaker. Unlike other options, there is no reverse charging here. Thanks to a Qi unit on the bottom, you can also wirelessly charge the Roam 2. 

On the whole, I was already pretty fond of the Roam 2's design. As we said in our first generation review, it is a “really attractive” Bluetooth speaker that sticks with Sonos’ minimalist focus. It might not be as vibrant or LED light-filled as competing options, but that also lets the focus be on the sound it produces.

  • Design score: 4.5/5

Sonos Roam 2

(Image credit: Future/Jacob Krol)

Sonos Roam 2 review: Value

  • Sonos fixed most of the issues with the original here
  • For the price, you get an excellent piece of hardware with rich sound that's on par with other speakers
  • You can spend less for a great sounding longer-lasting speaker

Whether you have a home-filled with Sonos speakers or are brand new to the connected audio brand, the Roam 2 should be on your sort list for an ultra-portable speaker. It fixes one of the biggest pain points with the original, while still delivering excellent sound in a strong build that comes in some fun shades.

Thanks to the Bluetooth button on the back, you can easily unbox it and get right to playing music if you're away from home. You'll just power the Roam 2 on, hold it in, and connect from your Bluetooth-enabled device to start streaming. The onboard tweeter and woofer deliver a rich, balanced audio experience that can get surprisingly loud for the sheer size, and it outpaces competing Bluetooth speakers.

The Roam 2 also has an edge when it comes to Wi-Fi connectivity, letting it integrate with other Sonos speakers for multi-room audio and, in fact, works with the Sonos app for easy music streaming from a plethora of sources. You can also use the onboard microphone with Amazon Alexa for other smart controls. 

It's not all perfect, though; at $179 / £179 / AU$299, the Roam 2 should last longer than just 10 hours, and you can get more mileage for a lot less. You might also be looking for a more fun design or integration with other platforms that Roam 2 doesn't offer. 

Still, even with a battery life shortcoming, the Roam 2 offers improvements to an already excellent Bluetooth (and Wi-Fi) speaker. While it's not an immediate upgrade for folks with the original – unless you're frustrated by the lack of a Bluetooth button – the Roam 2 is an excellent option for someone who wants excellent sound in an ultra-portable build with simple aesthetics. 

  • Value score: 3.5/5

Sonos Roam 2 in Wave.

(Image credit: Future/Jacob Krol)

Should you buy the Sonos Roam 2?

Buy it if...

You're already in the Sonos ecosystem
I love how the Roam 2 fits right at home with an existing Sonos ecosystem and I can easily carry this around my home, or continue the experience outside. If you already have a Sonos setup, the Roam 2 gives you the best of both worlds. 

You want a simple, ultra-portable speaker
The Roam 2 not only looks great and has plenty of buttons, but it's really easy to take it on the go with you... both near and far.

Don't buy it if...

You need a long-lasting speaker
At just 10 hours of battery life, the Roam 2 is the opposite of a road warrior, so if you want a speaker that can last for days you'll want to look elsewhere.

You don't want to spend a ton
At $179 / £179 / AU$299, the Roam 2 is in the higher-end sector of Bluetooth and Wi-Fi speakers, and while the feature list mostly matches the price tag, there are plenty of cheaper options out there.

Sonos Roam 2 review: Also consider

Beats Pill
Yes, the iconic Beats Pill is back and asides from a strange button situation that reminds me of the first-gen Roam, it's a very well-feature Bluetooth speaker that checks off nearly all of the boxes. It offers rich, booming sound, nearly ultra-long battery life at 24-hours, and pairs seamlessly with an iOS or Android device. Here's our full Beats Pill review for more information.

JBL Flip 6
The JBL Flip 6 is a little older, as it launched in late 2021, but like the Roam 2 is beach-ready with an IP67 resistance rating. It's nearly the same size and offers excellent sound, but it also has a party mode which the Roam doesn't offer while on Bluetooth. You can connect the Flip 6 with up to 100 other JBL speakers with the PartyBoost functionality. IT remains a great buy today, so here's our full JBL Flip 6 review.

Sonos Roam 2 Bluetooth Pairing

(Image credit: Future/Jacob Krol)

How I tested the Sonos Roam 2

  • Tested over two months on its own and in conjunction with other Sonos speakers
  • Listened to a range of music over Bluetooth and Wi-Fi connections
  • Tested in a variety of spaces, both inside and outside

I tested the Sonos Roam 2 for over two months with a long list of my favorite tracks across genres like rock, pop, hip-hop, and jazz, as well as the TechRadar testing playlist, which has a wide range of songs. I tried to throw a broad range of tracks at the Roam 2, from Bruce Springsteen and The Beatles to Olivia Rodrigo, Taylor Swift, and Charli XCX. 

Since it works over Bluetooth and Wi-Fi, I tried the former with several devices, including an iPhone 15 Pro Max, iPad Mini, Galaxy S24 Ultra, Google Pixel Fold, Google Pixel 8, and the Galaxy Z Flip 6. On Wi-Fi, I used it on my pre-existing Sonos system that consists of an Era 100, Roam 1st Gen, Sonos Beam 2nd Gen, Sonos Sub Mini, Sonos Move 2nd Gen, and a Sonos Era 300.

I tested the battery qualitatively in a broad range of places and a formal test to see what it netted out at. I ran it through a long playlist twice with the volume set to 60%.

Geekom AX8 Pro mini PC review
7:23 pm |

Author: admin | Category: Computers Gadgets Pro | Tags: , , , | Comments: Off

Geekom AX8 Pro: 30-second review

Specs

CPU: AMD Ryzen 9 8945HS
Graphics: AMD Radeon Graphics 780M
RAM: 32GB DDR5 5600MT/s up to 64GB
Storage: M.2 2280 PCIe Gen 4 x 4 SSD 1TB up to 27B
Rear Ports: DC Jack, USB 4.0. USB 3.2, 2 x HDMI 2.0, 2.5GbE LAN Port, USB 2.0 Port, USB 3.2 Gen 2 port
Front Ports: 2 x USB 3.2 Gen 2, 3.5mm Headphone
Connectivity: WiFi 6E, Bluetooth 5.2, 2.5G Ethernet
Audio: 3.5mm audio
Camera: n/a
Size: 117 x 111 x 38.5mm
OS installed: Windows 11 Pro (64bit)
Accessories: VESA Mount

From the outset, the Geekom Mini PC AX8 Pro impresses with its full metal build and stylish design. From the box, you can instantly feel the weight, which is more than you normally expect from a machine of this size. However, as this is a mini PC, and at 545 g, it is going to add a small amount of weight or bulk to your desktop or bag.

Looking at that design and that full metal build does give the mini PC a real sense of quality. There's nothing flimsy about it, which gives you confidence that if you need something portable, then it will withstand more than a simple knock or two.

As with so many of the best mini PCs we've reviewed, there are several ports around the body of the machine, giving you plenty of connectivity options whether you're using it as a permanent desktop solution or as something more portable.

Inside the AX8 Pro, you have an AMD Ryzen 9 8945HS coupled with AMD Radeon Graphics 780M, which proved to provide plenty of power when it mattered. Our review sample features 32GB of DDR5 RAM and a 1TB SSD, which also provides plenty of power and decent storage capacity.

The machine comes with Windows 11 Pro 64-bit installed, so the initial setup process takes about 20 minutes. Once everything is in place, the machine performs impressively across all test programs that usually require a bit more processing, such as Photoshop and Premiere, which run smoothly for the most part.

However, you do start to see its slight lag in Adobe Premiere Pro with some of the high-resolution footage from the Canon EOS R5 C. Taking an in-depth look at the benchmarking results, we can see just how good this small machine is comparing well to some of the more powerful laptops on the market and some of the larger gaming mini PCs.

The benchmarks show that the AX8 is an outstanding machine, able to cope with a wide breadth of applications and uses. With its sleek, understated design, it's surprising just how powerful it is, which makes it an ideal solution for professional use. It's not only capable of ploughing through office admin applications but also doing an awful lot more, including handling all of your creative content and applications.

Geekom AX8 Pro: Price & availability

Geekom Mini PC AX8 Pro Review

(Image credit: Alastair Jennings)

The AX8 Pro is available directly from Geekom for $749 / £749, reflecting its premium quality build and outstanding performance. You can also find this machine on Amazon and several other online retailers, and the prices will vary depending on what offers are available. 

  • Score: 4/5

Geekom AX8 Pro: Design & build

Geekom Mini PC AX8 Pro Review

(Image credit: Alastair Jennings)

The build quality of mini PCs is certainly on the up, and the AX8 Pro Mini PC is a testament to this. On close inspection, the full metal build of the exterior casing, the honeycomb design of vents along the sides and venting at the back along with the neat layout of the front and rear ports all give this mini PC an edge when it comes to absolute style and quality.

The front of the machine is minimalistic with two USB 3.2 Gen 2 ports, which enable 10 Gb/s data transfer. These are neatly laid out and great for plugging in occasional accessories. There is also a 3.5mm headphone socket, which accepts most wired headphones and then the main power button.

Flipping over to the rear, you have the 19V DC in, and the mini PC comes supplied with an external power supply that plugs straight into the mains socket. Next to this, you have a USB 4.0, which delivers 40 Gb/s. Below this is an HDMI 2.0 port. On the opposite side of the machine, there's a USB 3.2 port and HDMI 2.0 port coupling. The USB 4.0 port on the left is capable of delivering 8K at 30 Hz, while the USB 3.2 port on the right can deliver 4K at 60 Hz, providing future-proofing options. Additionally, you have a 2.5 GB LAN port, another USB 3.2 Gen 2 port, and a USB 2.0 port, giving you plenty of options for connecting peripherals and multiple displays.

On the base of the casing are two screw holes that enable a VESA mount to be attached, so this mini PC can easily be mounted in various locations using the standard mounting system. On the side of the mini PC, there is a security lock slot for added protection.

  • Design: 4.5/5

Geekom AX8 Pro: Features

Geekom Mini PC AX8 Pro Review

(Image credit: Alastair Jennings)

The small size of this mini PC doesn't give you any impression of the scale of the features packed inside. Firstly, it boasts an AMD Ryzen 9 8945HS, coupled with AMD Radeon Graphics 780M. This combo is paired with  32GB of DDR5 5600MT/sRAM, expandable to 64GB if required. Storage wise it ships with a 1TB M.2 2280 PCIe Gen 4 x 4 SSD, but will take an SSD up to 2TB. Then, for networking connectivity, it has a decent suite of ports, including a 2.5G Ethernet, Wi-Fi 6E, and Bluetooth 5.2 for connecting devices.

One of the big features of the AMD CPU used is that it's part of the 8000 series, featuring advanced AI capabilities to help allocate processing where and when it's needed. This aids with a variety of functions including predictive maintenance, improved energy efficiency, enhanced performance and security, and helps to personalise your experience in combination with Windows 11 Pro.

When you open up the machine by removing the four screws on the base, it reveals the RAM and SSD slots so upgrading is extremely easy.

The PC comes with Wi-Fi 6E to ensure a decent connection to your networks for conferencing work, light entertainment, and gaming. Its backward compatibility means that if you are transporting this small box around, it should easily connect with all sorts of networks without issue. For other forms of connection, it has Bluetooth 5.2, allowing you to connect wireless accessories and speakers without too much hassle.

A variety of ports around the body of the mini PC provide plenty of connection options. Notably the HDMI, USB 4.0 and USB 3.2 enable you to connect to large displays, with two standard HDMI 2.0 ports enabling you to connect to 4K 60Hz monitors. Additionally, the USB 4.0 port allows you to connect to an 8K 30Hz monitor, and a USB 3.2 port enables you to connect to a 4K 60Hz monitor, allowing for a total of four monitors to be connected at once.

The USB 4.0 and 3.2 ports can be used to connect to displays or provide ultra-fast data transfer to storage devices such as external SSDs, enabling transfer speeds up to 40 Gb/s. This makes it suitable for photographers and videographers looking for a machine that can handle the large data files required for image and video editing. The 2.5G Ethernet will enable you to connect to network drives easily.

One issue with having such a high-performance mini PC in a small frame is heat management. Geekom addresses this with its Ice Blast 5.0 cooling system, incorporating a large fan at the top of the machine. This fan helps draw heat from the electronics and pushes it out through a vent on the back of the machine, while the Honeycombe vents on the side draw in cooler air across the electronics.

Despite the high processing speeds, this mini PC is well-balanced and consumes only 45W, which is far lower than similarly powered laptops. One of the big features is that the AX8 Pro is a powerful computing solution in a small and robust package that's easy to carry and connect to displays and wireless systems, perfect for presentations or work. At 117 x 111 x 38.5 mm with the VESA mount in the package, it's also extremely mountable, so it can be positioned on the back of a monitor, TV, or beneath your monitor with ease.

An interesting feature highlighted by Geekom, which is quite rare for a mini PC, is its durability. The company states that it has undergone drop tests, vibration, altitude, temperature, and humidity tests to ensure it is a robust mini PC that will stand up to more than typical use.

This PC comes standard with Windows 11 Pro, which works seamlessly with all Microsoft Office apps, Google Suite, and the Adobe Creative Collection, as utilised throughout this review.

  • Features: 4.5/5

Geekom AX8 Pro: Performance

Geekom Mini PC AX8 Pro Review

(Image credit: Alastair Jennings)
Benchmarks

Crystal Disk Read: 7102.34MB/s
Crystal Disk Write: 6192.86MB/s
GeekBench CPU Single: 2662
GeekBench CPU Multi: 13392
GeekBench Compute: 31321
PC Mark: 7518
CineBench CPU Multi: 14602
CineBench CPU Single: 1800
Fire Strike Overall: 7734
Fire Strike Graphics: 8384
Fire Strike Physics: 26594
Fire Strike Combined: 2925
Time Spy Overall: 3359
Time Spy Graphics: 2997
Time Spy CPU: 10687
Wild Life: 17182
Windows Experience: 8.2

Unboxing the AX8 Pro from the packaging takes a couple of minutes and a further 20 minutes to run through the Windows 11 Pro setup process. The machine is very simple to set up, with the AC to DC transformer plugging into the back with a decent-length cable to plug into your AC mains wall socket. Following that, the two USB ports on the back can be used to connect your keyboard and mouse before a cable HDMI or USB type-C is run to the monitor.

For our test, we used a single 27-inch 4K monitor plugged in directly through the HDMI cable. It supplies a decent 4K resolution at 60 Hz, which is more than enough for most professional uses, including office work, creative and video editing.

To run through the tests the system was loaded with the usual benchmarking software, 3D Mark, PC Mark, Geekbench, Adobe Creative Cloud (ACC) with Photoshop and Premiere Pro, and a few games to test the graphics potential.

Starting with Microsoft Office apps, Microsoft Word and Excel ran absolutely seamlessly with no issues encountered with multiple documents and applications open. 

Putting a little more pressure on the system, Adobe Photoshop and Premiere were loaded. Using Photoshop as a starting point, we tested the machine's capabilities, and it was able to happily open and manipulate images from the Canon EOS R5 C with 5 to 10 layers and multiple adjustments with minimal slowdown. This makes it an ideal solution for photographers who need a small and compact machine that can be used in a studio environment or out in the field. 

Switching the processing over to some of the best video editing software out there, Premiere Pro, we edited a five-minute video taken from the Canon EOS R5 C in 4K. While the internal storage wasn't large enough to hold all the video captured, an external Lexar Armor 700 SSD was attached to the USB port on the back of the machine. This provides the transfer rates needed by Premiere Pro for smooth editing of the footage. The ease of use and the smoothness of the editing process highlight just how powerful this little machine is. With proxy media enabled, the AX8 Pro provided a smooth workflow, although, for larger productions, this small machine would start to struggle.

For office tasks using Google Suite or Microsoft Office within a professional environment, this machine will absolutely excel, enabling you to connect to multiple displays and storage devices without an issue. For creative tasks such as Photoshop or InDesign, this machine is more than adequate, handling data manipulation and layout with plenty of power. When it comes to video editing for full HD and 4K video, this machine handles the data with relative ease. However, for high bitrate footage, such as that produced by the Canon EOS R5C, the machine starts to need help with longer productions. Using Adobe Media Encoder to convert that footage to something more accessible will help the editing process. As it stands, it does a relatively good job.

Switching to benchmarking software, we see just how good this machine is, with some of the fastest results seen from any mini PC. 

The benchmark results show the AX8 Pro's impressive storage speed. With read speeds of over 7000 MB/s and write speeds surpassing 6000 MB/s, the NVMe SSD ensures rapid boot times, fast file transfers, and runs multiple applications with ease. 

The Geekbench and Cinebench scores highlight the capabilities of the AMD Ryzen 9 8945HS. The high single-core scores ensure that everyday tasks and applications like Microsoft Office and Google Chrome run smoothly. The impressive multi-core scores indicate excellent performance in multitasking and demanding applications like the best photo editors Adobe Photoshop and Lightroom, as well as Premiere Pro.

A PC Mark score of 7518 and a Windows Experience Index of 8.2 reflect a balanced system optimised for productivity, entertainment, and creative tasks. 

The gaming benchmarks reveal the AX8 Pro's abilities, with the AMD Radeon 780M providing solid performance. Fire Strike and Time Spy scores, particularly in graphics and physics, indicate that the AX8 Pro can handle graphically intensive games like Cyberpunk 2097 and Red Dead Redemption 2 in medium settings. The Wild Life score of 17182 further reinforces this - so if you do want to do a little gaming, then while you won't be able to crank up the graphics all the way, you'll still get a decent gaming experience. 

One thing to note is that during the editing of 4K video and when playing games the fan noise was quite loud, so while the machine is more than happy to delve into heavy processing you will have the fan noise to contend with.

  • Performance: 4/5

Should you buy the Geekom AX8 Pro?

The Geekom AX8 Pro will undoubtedly suit any professional who needs a smaller, robust computer, whether for the office, studio, or on location. This mini PC is versatile enough to take out in the field or use in a presentation at an alternative workplace.

Unusually for a mini PC, build quality, and the robustness of the design really come into play. The style of this mini PC is so understated that you wouldn't realise just how tough it is. Geekom has gone to extra lengths to ensure that if you decide to carry this mini PC around, the build quality will protect the delicate components inside the metal casing.

Inside is a powerful PC, highlighted through both real-world tests and benchmarking. While the graphics abilities of this mini PC might not match those of top-flight gaming and production mini PCs, it is still among the best we've tested. If you need extra graphic processing, there is a USB 4.0 port on the back that will allow you to connect an external GPU of your choice, giving a significant boost in graphics performance.

Beneath the hood, there's a lot of processing power, and this machine will get hot. Thankfully, the cooling system that Geekom has implemented works well. Although you can hear the fans as they kick in to keep things cool, it's not overly loud. If you need a quiet editing environment for video work, there might be better machines for you, though the noise levels are generally acceptable.

As an all-around powerful PC, the Geekom AX8 Pro outperforms many others and is a great solution for demanding office work and medium creative applications.

Geekom Mini PC AX8 Pro Review

(Image credit: Alastair Jennings)

Buy it if...

Don't buy it if...


For more professional devices, we reviewed the best business computers and best business laptops.

SteelSeries Arctis Nova 4 Wireless review: top-tier cable-free audio with an average mic
6:00 pm |

Author: admin | Category: Computers Gadgets Gaming | Tags: | Comments: Off

SteelSeries Arctis Nova 4 Wireless: Two-minute review

If there’s one thing SteelSeries has delivered on when it comes to the Arctis Nova 4, it’s the sound. This thing absolutely slaps when it comes to driving that audio. Bass is well-rounded, with a broad depth to it, without compromising on any of the mids or the high-end treble whatsoever. The mids themselves are surprisingly clean, and the treble doesn’t feel muted like you’d find on other headsets at this price point. What that means is you get an incredibly crisp listening experience, with an EQ that’s entirely reminiscent of a slightly tweaked flat profile that you’d typically expect to see in more pricier HiFi-esque units. 

Is it going to blow a $300 audiophile grade headset out of the water? No, it’s not, but it’s a good 85% of the way there, and for such a reasonable outlay it makes it remarkably tantalizing for any gamer who’s just as much into their music as they are fragging scrubs on a Friday.

Overall headset design is great too. From the geometry, to the materials and the branding, and of course the now iconic ski-goggle headband. SteelSeries has leaned into that as well, including a set of stickers in the packaging, along with a few touches here and there to denote its gamer heritage. That’s no bad thing. There’s far too many headsets out there that are “perfect for the office or your gaming den”, so having an option that’s specifically built around that age old pastime that drew us into this hobby of ours to begin with is incredibly refreshing.

So, downsides? The microphone is underwhelming. It’s a retractable bi-directional noise canceling affair, sure. And it captures audio fine. But it just lacks the clarity that you can find on other competing solutions at this price point, which is a little disappointing. It’s very much akin to something from a decade ago, and although you’ll be clearly heard, given the caliber of mics available out there, it just doesn’t quite hit the mark. Additionally, connectivity is just okay. You get a USB-C multi-platform dongle, channeling 2.4 GHz wireless connectivity as standard, along with a couple of cables (mostly intended for charging), but there’s no Bluetooth connectivity here, which feels like a bit of a missed opportunity.

Is this one of the best gaming headsets around though? That’s going to entirely depend on your preferences. For audio, it’s absolutely next-level, and that alone really does elevate the headset to new heights. Still, if you absolutely want top-tier clarity for your raid leading or eSport comps you might want to look elsewhere. 

A photo showing the bottom of the SteelSeries Arctis Nova 4 Wireless headset.

(Image credit: Future)

SteelSeries Arctis Nova 4 Wireless: Price and availability

  • $119.99 / £119
  • UK has the 4X version
  • Deal pricing makes it exceptional value 

As of today, you can pick up the SteelSeries Arctis Nova 4 Wireless without too much hassle in the US. Amazon is your best bet, and it’s often on sale, hitting prices as low as $80 during some of the holiday periods. That makes it an absolute steal if you’re after a wireless gaming headset with stellar battery life.

Things are a little more complicated in the UK however, with the Arctis 4 being surprisingly hard to come by. The far more readily available 4X is around for a similar price though, as an added bonus that X does denote that it officially has Xbox support unlike the standard model.

SteelSeries Arctis Nova 4 Wireless: Specs

SteelSeries Arctis Nova 4 Wireless: Design and features

  • Gamer design is attractive 
  • Exceptionally comfortable 
  • Lack of connectivity  

There’s something quite nice about picking up a gaming headset that looks like it was built with gamers in mind. I’m not talking about those cheap plastic things that we often deride as being a bit too gaudy, but something that treats the hobby with a bit of decorum. The shapes, materials and design choices behind the Arctis Nova 4 very much lean into that aesthetic in a way that’s genuinely pleasing to the eye. 

This isn’t going to fit in at your office, or on your commute, and honestly that’s no bad thing. We’ve had enough of those ‘professional’ designs at this point; having something that stands-out from the crowd is a nice change of pace. SteelSeries has even gone the whole hog on that front and included a set of stickers in the box too.

The Nova 4 otherwise follows that age-old Arctis styling, with a sleek ski-goggle headband design that allows it to rest and adjust perfectly to your cranium. These do tend to have a habit of weakening over time admittedly (not something I’ve witnessed testing the Nova 4), but you can replace it, and SteelSeries do sell a number of custom ear-pads and bands, giving the headset some serious longevity if you plan on sticking with it for the next few years and beyond. 

Overall headset comfort is top-tier, although admittedly it is better suited to those with smaller ears. Still, you can adjust the length and position of the earcups easily enough, and they rotate plenty too, assuring you’ll be more than set regardless of the shape of your skull. Earcup materials are soft and plush, not memory-foam, but still comfortable enough, and although the cloth padding does look a little abrasive at first-glance, they’re far more comfortable than they first appear.

A photo showing the SteelSeries Arctis Nova 4 Wireless headset on a wooden surface.

(Image credit: Future)

The microphone is a retractable bidirectional noise-canceling affair. Its tab hides on the left-side of the headset, and, with the headset on, can be difficult to identify by touch. Now, if you’re trying to extract that during an intense online firefight, you’re going to have a bad time. Although more on that in a moment.

Button layout is pretty standard too. You get power-on and mic-mute buttons as well as a volume scroll wheel (with volume thankfully separate to Windows as well, so it can get seriously loud).

As for connectivity, 2.4 GHz wireless is the name of the game, with a rather oblong USB-C dongle included. It’s clearly been designed for consoles first, with its compact form-factor better suited to sitting relatively flush to the Nintendo Switch, PS5 or any other console-esque device. It is however a bit of a pain to stick it in the back of a motherboard’s Rear I/O (I may have accidentally shoved it in a USB Type-A port, and shorted my entire PC at one point). SteelSeries do include a USB extension cable as standard though, so you can eliminate that problem.

A photo showing the accessories included with the SteelSeries Arctis Nova 4 Wireless headset on a wooden surface.

(Image credit: Future)

SteelSeries Arctis Nova 4 Wireless: Performance

  • Exceptional audio quality 
  • Phenomenal when discounted 
  • Microphone is average at best 

So, what’s the Arctis Nova 4 like to listen to? Exceptional. Outstanding. Beyond impressive given the price. The bass is deep and well-rounded, it doesn’t cause distortion at any other wave-length, and still has that gaming gravitas that we all love for our epic explosion moments. Mids, likewise, are beautifully balanced, without being too desaturated by the other two ends of the spectrum, and the treble is crisp and clear. Not quite as muffled or muted as some of the other wireless headsets available around this price point. It’s not absolutely perfect, for myself in particular I would’ve loved to have just a touch more crystallization at the very top-end, but that may just be my aging ears.

SteelSeries' Engine software is exceptionally in-depth, and does give you the opportunity to fine tune the audio profile to exactly what you like, along with the usual armada of EQ presets available too, if you’re not a fan of dialing it in just for you (or don’t know where to start).

Otherwise though, what you get with the Nova 4 is an incredibly well-balanced audio profile, with a touch more bass, and a little less treble than you’d find on far more expensive hi-fi options.

Then we get to the microphone, and oh boy. Right now, at this price, even for wireless headsets, there are a number of options out there with outstanding microphones. Some that even come close to sounding like fully dedicated XLR setups. The one in the Arctis Nova 4 Wireless though, despite being “AI Powered” and offering noise-canceling just sounds really mediocre by comparison. If you put this side-by-side with a headset from a decade ago, you’d be hard pressed to tell the difference. It works, it’ll pick up your voice, and deliver that in a clear manner, but it lacks the clarity, and the breadth that you’d expect from a headset at this price point, which is really quite disappointing.

Otherwise battery life is about where SteelSeries itself rates it, and I managed a full week of working from the home office without needing to charge.

Ultimately, the Arctis Nova 4 Wireless, for the price, is a solid pick. If audio is the only thing you’re interested in, it’s top-tier, and you can forgive the lackluster microphone as, after all, you’ll still be well-understood. What is worth noting, though, is how low in price the headset tends to go when it’s on offer. I’ve seen it as low as $80 during peak sales periods throughout the year. When it hits that kind of pricing it really does elevate it into some serious top-tier territory.

A photo showing the bottom of SteelSeries Arctis Nova 4 Wireless headset on a wooden surface.

(Image credit: Future)

Should I buy the SteelSeries Arctis Nova 4 Wireless?

Buy it if...

Don't buy it if...

Also consider...

Here are two alternatives if you’d like to weigh up some other options before deciding on the SteelSeries Arctis Nova 4 Wireless.

The SteelSeries Arctis Nova 4 Wireless headset in the hands.

(Image credit: Future)

How I tested the SteelSeries Arctis Nova 4 Wireless

  • Tested across multiple consoles 
  • Games, music and media listened to 
  • Software fully explored and configured 

I spent over three weeks testing the SteelSeries Arctis Nova 4 Wireless. I switched from my current daily driver combo of the Corsair Virtuoso Pro XT and the Audio-technica ATH-M50xBT and exclusively used the Nova 4 in all of my gaming pursuits. 

I’ve got fairly sensitive ears when it comes to audio testing, and prefer a deeper bass note, and higher treble, typically achieved through crystallization effects and similar.

I tested the battery life by charging the Nova 4 to full, then using it exclusively without charging throughout my working week. As for music testing, that was a combination of YouTube Music and Spotify Premium, across all manner of genres to best gauge just how well the drivers performed.

Read more about how we test

First reviewed August 2024.

Kubuntu Focus M2 Gen 5 Linux laptop review
4:47 pm |

Author: admin | Category: Computers Gadgets Pro | Tags: , | Comments: Off

Many people are familiar with PCs and Macs as the primary operating systems. While these are great, sometimes users may seek alternatives, especially those in programming or those who want a more open-source operating system that can be customized to their needs. Linux is often used for servers, IT professionals, developers, and other devices that must be operational for long periods.

But can the Kubuntu Focus M2 Gen 5 compete against some of the best Linux laptops we've reviewed? We put it to the test. 

Kubuntu Focus M2 Gen 5

(Image credit: Collin Probst // Future)

Kubuntu Focus M2 Gen 5: Unboxing & first impressions

Unboxing the Kubuntu Focus M2 Gen 5 Linux Laptop made me appreciate the durability and reliability that Kubuntu offers. This laptop is solid. It's not a cheap-feeling plastic; it is solid and could take some rugged and demanding work. The box includes the computer, a powerful 280W or 330W power adapter (depending on the GPU configuration), and essential documentation. 

The laptop chassis is made of aluminum alloy for its quality and durability. The QHD display is immediately impressive with its vibrant colors and sharp resolution. This is something that I was happily surprised with, as I was expecting a lower-quality screen for some reason. The keyboard and touchpad feel responsive and well-built, with the option of customizable backlighting.

Kubuntu Focus M2 Gen 5

(Image credit: Collin Probst // Future)

Kubuntu Focus M2 Gen 5: Design & build quality

Specs

as tested

Processor: Intel i9-14900HX (24 cores, 32 threads, up to 5.8 GHz)
GPU: Nvidia RTX 4060
RAM: Up to 96GB DDR5 5200 MHz
Storage: 1000GB 7450MBps Samsung
Ports: HDMI 2.0b, Mini DisplayPort, 2 x USB-C 3.2 (with Thunderbolt 4), 2 x USB-A 3.2, Headset Audio Jack, Mic + S/PDIF Audio Jack, 2.5 Gigabit RJ-45 Ethernet

The M2 Gen 5 boasts an all-metal design with a premium finish. It can be used heavily without showing much wear and tear. Among the other laptops I am testing, it feels like a Cyber Truck. It looks different from the streamlined, minimalist design language the "other guys" are going for.

However, the device is relatively slim and lightweight compared to many of the best mobile workstations out there, making it portable without compromising on power. It's not made to be a slim notebook design. It's supposed to be a powerhouse workstation.

The hinge mechanism feels robust, and the overall build quality is excellent. As I mentioned, I can be more careful with this, and I'm worried that the laptop will fold, bend, break, or be damaged. The ports are firm and can withstand a heavy workload of plugging and unplugging without getting loose. Lastly, the keyboard is comfortable to type on. I may not want to write for hours and hours on this machine, but as a workstation, its keyboard is relatively easy to use and comfortable enough to get the job done.

Kubuntu Focus M2 Gen 5

(Image credit: Collin Probst // Future)

Kubuntu Focus M2 Gen 5: In use

My first interactions with the Kubuntu Focus M2 Gen 5 were a bit problematic. I had issues with skipping, lag, and an overall slow UI. However, after some research and reaching out to Kubuntu, I realized this issue was due to a hybrid mode that I had allowed, which was helpful. Once I moved out of hybrid mode and into performance mode, I was gleefully surprised by how smoothly everything operated.

The performance across the board has been stellar. I've been able to knock out anything I've wanted to do with ease. As with all our tests for the best business laptops, my team and I tested this with light coding, 3D rendering, programming, and everyday business tasks. 

Kubuntu Focus M2 Gen 5

(Image credit: Collin Probst // Future)

The laptop runs quietly under load. However, upon closing the computer, it usually does a quick fan burst to help cool and prepare for sleep. All around, the battery life is good. We got nearly 8 hours with moderate use, and thankfully, it charges with USB-C, just like everything else we have, so we could charge it up quickly with what charging bricks and stations we already have on hand.

Carrying this laptop around feels hefty, especially when working with super-thin laptops designed to be highly portable and light. What I was able to remind myself of, though quickly, is that Kubuntu is not trying to be the thinnest laptop on the market, designed to slip into a small bag or sling and not be seen; the goal of this laptop is to be a powerhouse, competing with other workstations, not thin laptops. With that in mind, this laptop is much more reasonably sized and scores better in overall footprint and weight.

Kubuntu Focus M2 Gen 5

(Image credit: Collin Probst // Future)

The port offering on this laptop has been a huge pro, especially in the line of work people wanting this laptop would be in. There is no need for dongles, docks, or adapters, as this computer has nearly every port you need. Any ports that could run off the back of your computer and only be plugged in and not messed with, such as ethernet and HDMI, run off the back. The ports that would probably be messed with while working on something are all on the sides, making them easily accessible and easy to use. This workstation was designed for heavy-duty work and to do that work efficiently.

Kubuntu Focus M2 Gen 5: Final verdict

The Kubuntu Focus M2 Gen 5 is an exceptional machine for those who need an all-around great Linux Workstation. Its quality components, excellent build quality, and robust port offering make it a top choice for professionals despite its higher price tag. 


Looking for desktop computing? We reviewed the best Linux PCs. 

AndaSeat Kaiser 4 XL office chair review
2:32 pm |

Author: admin | Category: Computers Gadgets Pro | Comments: Off

AndaSeat is known for gaming chairs. There is no doubt about that. While they do have some chairs that are promoted as professional chairs or office/gaming chair hybrids, they look and function much like gaming chairs. 

However, as I have shown with the Secretlab Magnus Pro Standing Desk, if the product is of high quality and operates the way you need and want it to, it doesn't matter what the original intention was. If it works for your scenario, it works. The Magnus Pro standing desk is technically a gaming desk; however, I put it through the paces of a professional standing desk and performed wonderfully. After all, our best office chair on a budget is a similarly gaming inspired desk seat.

So, while the AndaSeat Kaiser 4 XL - an extra-large version of the popular Kaiser 4 Series (check out our AndaSeat Kaiser 4 review for more details) - might originally be aimed at gamers, it more than fits into the professional workspace setting.  

AndaSeat Kaiser 4 XL

(Image credit: Collin Probst // Future)

The AndaSeat fills a similar space in my head. It's a bridge between the gaming and professional space. Yes, it looks gamer, but it functions like many of the mainstream best professional ergonomic office chairs. It's a clean, simple colored chair with high levels of adjustability and excellent ergonomics. 

It is comfortable for all-day use, and this one is the XL model, making room for those who are a bit bigger. Bigger can mean many things. For example, my team member who uses this chair the most is 5'11" and is 215lb. He's a professional fitness trainer and appreciates the extra space, as most standard chairs are small for him. I'll discuss that later on.

AndaSeat Kaiser 4 XL

(Image credit: Collin Probst // Future)

AndaSeat Kaiser 4 XL: Unboxing & first impressions

The packaging for the AndaSeat Kaiser is impressive. There is a lot of chair in there. The packaging is sturdy and very well organized, ensuring that all of the components arrived to me in perfect condition. There is not one piece damaged or crushed.

AndaSeat Kaiser 4 XL

(Image credit: Collin Probst // Future)

Along with the chair pieces comes the documentation and necessary tools to help make the setup process as easy as possible. It took me about 42 minutes to assemble this chair from start to finish, utilizing the tools in the box.

AndaSeat Kaiser 4 XL

(Image credit: Collin Probst // Future)

The AndaSeat Kaiser 4 XL immediately impresses with its hardy build and premium-feeling materials. The PVC leather will last for a while and doesn't feel cheap, though I worry that I might stick to it a bit in the heat or if I am sweating. I'm just over 200lbs and 6'2" tall, and this chair gives me plenty of space. 

I appreciate how tall the backrest comes up on me, and I love that I don't feel like the armrests are creeping into my space. Instead, they are right where I want them. I also love how I can adjust the height to a place I wish to be, rather than compromising like I need to do with some standard-sized chairs.

AndaSeat Kaiser 4 XL

(Image credit: Collin Probst // Future)

Lastly, the chair's aesthetics are professional. It doesn't feel tacky or unprofessional but pretty sophisticated all around, especially in the elegant black colorway I chose. All around, this chair feels excellent; the seat feels more like a bucket seat in a sports car than anything; the rocking, reclining, and swivel are all very smooth, and the adjustments, though they take a while to dial in, made this chair fit me wonderfully.

AndaSeat Kaiser 4 XL

(Image credit: Collin Probst // Future)

AndaSeat Kaiser 4 XL: Design & build quality

Specs

as tested

Material: Premium PVC Leather
Weight Capacity: 395 lbs
Seat Height: 18.11" - 20.67"
Adjustability: 5D armrests, 4-level lumbar support, recline up to 135 degrees
Warranty: Five years

AndaSeat chose to utilize PVC Leather for the Kaiser 4 Series Premium Chair. Granted, it's less luxurious than PU or genuine leather, but it's an understandable and still a high-quality choice for this chair. It offers high levels of durability and is relatively easy to clean. The frame is solid metal, and the seat has a high-density foam that feels more firm than anything but is very comfortable. 

The Kaiser 4 Series Premium Gaming (and professional) Chair is available in ten colors and two material options: premium PVC Leather or Linen Fabric. Its sleek and modern design is well-suited to gaming and professional environments.

AndaSeat Kaiser 4 XL

(Image credit: Collin Probst // Future)

AndaSeat Kaiser 4 XL: In use

While using this chair, my team and I noticed that the only downside to the entire chair is that the PVC Leather can feel less breathable and get a bit sticky or plasticky after extended use, especially if we get warm. Most ergonomic chairs, while they contort to your body, are also breathable in one way or another. 

This chair, while ergonomic, is not not breathable. It's still comfortable, but there's a difference in design language. This lack of breathability can make the chair a bit warm if you're prone to sweating, operating in a warm area, or working for long periods.

AndaSeat Kaiser 4 XL

(Image credit: Collin Probst // Future)

In addition, the previously mentioned dense foam and ergonomic design make long working sessions comfortable and prevent me from needing to stand up due to aches or discomfort.

At first, the 5D armrests were gimmicky and a marketing trick. Still, I have noticed times when I have used or wanted to use all elements of the 5D armrests to get the perfect armrest position for working, reading, meetings, working at a desk, with a laptop on my lap, with my iPad, or on a long phone call. So far, this chair has held up to it all, finding a way to be comfortable in almost every situation.

AndaSeat Kaiser 4 XL: Final verdict

As mentioned, the AndaSeat Kaiser 4 XL Premium gaming/professional chair is a fantastic bridge between the gamer look and professional function. It can live in both worlds; it provides all-day comfort thanks to the highly adjustable arms, lumbar support, backrests, and sports car-like bucket seat. The lack of breathability is a downfall, but nothing catastrophic at all. The PVC Leather makes the chair easy to clean and has other perks that help redeem that material choice. 

The Kaiser 4 XL is an excellent chair for those looking for a home office or professional chair who love the gamer style but also want to be able to use it confidently for work.


Enhancing your workspace? Pair your latest office chair with the best standing desks

Dell Precision 3680 Tower Workstation review
9:42 am |

Author: admin | Category: Computers Gadgets Pro | Comments: Off

The Dell Precision 3680 Tower Workstation is a solid investment for professionals. Like so many of the best workstations and best business computers we've reviewed, it offers strong performance, versatility, and thoughtful design, making it capable of efficiently handling various tasks. This makes it a valuable asset in any work environment. Dell desktops are still preferred for their power, storage, permanence, "always on" features, and other purposes, making them prominent in business. Dell is known for being highly versatile, reliable, trusted, powerful, and sleek, making the Precision 3680 Tower Workstation one of the best options for a customizable desktop solution.

Dell Precision 3680 Tower Workstation

(Image credit: Collin Probst // Future)

Dell Precision 3680: Unboxing & first impressions

The Dell Precision 3680 Tower Workstation comes securely packaged, with packing material holding everything in place so the computer will arrive pristine. The box contains the tower, the power cable, and essential documentation. My unit also had an external Intel AX211 + Bluetooth wireless card to add Wi-Fi 6E capabilities. At first glance, this tower is compact but mighty. The initial setup is simple, with the system booting up quickly and ready for customization and installation of additional software. Wonderfully enough, I got up and running in no time.

Dell Precision 3680 Tower Workstation

(Image credit: Collin Probst // Future)

Dell Precision 3680: Design & build quality

Specs

as tested

Processor: Intel® Core™ i9 14th Gen 14900K (36 MB cache, 24 cores, 32 threads, 3.2 GHz to 6.0 GHz, 125W)
Memory: 64GB of DDR5 ECC Memory (2 x 32GB (Non-ECC), but ECC memory is available to order)
Graphics: NVIDIA RTX A6000 with 48GB GDDR6 memory
Storage: RAID 0 with 2 X 1GB M.2 2280 Class 40 HDD
Wireless: Intel AX211 + Bluetooth wireless card

This tower workstation features a compact and robust chassis designed for durability and ease of access. The front panel is home to all the ports that I would want quick and easy access to, while the back ports are great for things that will stay plugged in for the most part. This Tower Workstation flaunts a sleek and professional design, while the compact and sturdy build hints at its suitability for various office environments. This machine is an excellent design for home office use or in the office. Either way, the Precision 3680 will fit right in.

Dell Precision 3680 Tower Workstation

(Image credit: Collin Probst // Future)

Dell Precision 3680: In use

The Dell Precision 3680 Tower Workstation has been primarily at one desk in my suite of desks and computers. So far, it had quickly handled multitasking and demanding applications, making it suitable for professionals in fields like CAD, running the best 3D modeling software or the best video editing software when spec'd out. However, if you use this machine for more business and administrative tasks, a machine with less spec'd will do just fine. Despite its powerful hardware, the Dell Precision 3680 operates quietly, ensuring a distraction-free work environment for your co-workers, cat, or spouse.

While using this desktop tower, my team and I discovered that the Precision 3680 is energy-efficient and quiet. This machine was nearly silent even when churning through benchmarks or rendering video.

Dell Precision 3680 Tower Workstation

(Image credit: Collin Probst // Future)

One thing that I love about having a mighty tower is that I do not need a docking station. While there is a time and a place for the best laptop docking stations, knowing that all I will most likely ever need is built into the chassis of this powerhouse is fantastic. I can access multiple USB Ports, HDMI, DisplayPort, USB-C, an SD Card reader, Ethernet, and even a disk reader. I could utilize all the monitors currently at my disposal and connect four monitors to this computer without any issues. I plugged them all in via DisplayPort to the graphics card, and I could appropriately choose which monitor went where and what resolution I wanted to run all of the displays at.

For the last few months, this computer has been the powerhouse I know to be consistent. In my day-to-day, I am testing gear and swapping to different laptops, monitors, chairs, desks, etc. Having the forced consistency of having this desktop set up at a desk with a monitor and peripherals honestly gives a great breath of fresh air. I know I can sit down, and regardless of what else is happening around me, this computer will be on, ready to run, and I don't have to mess with a dock. There are no issues with what mic I need to select, what camera, or what speakers, no issues connecting to the proper Wi-Fi, and no problems connecting to the display, mouse, or keyboard. That's the beauty of a desktop workstation and the power behind a beast like this. If you're looking for a powerful workstation and need something that can be an always-on device and crush anything you send it, check out the spec-out Dell Precision 3680 Tower Workstation.

Dell Precision 3680: Final verdict

The Dell Precision 3680 excels with its processing power and ability to quickly handle multitasking and demanding applications. The base model’s 8GB RAM is sufficient for general tasks, but upgrading the memory like we did is recommended for more intensive workloads. While good for essential use, the integrated graphics may also require an upgrade for graphic-intensive applications. When choosing features while building your Precision 3680, Dell proves its versatility with many build points and components. If you want a new desktop powerhouse or a simple desktop tower to complete some admin tasks, check out the Dell Precision 3680.


Want to power-up productivity on the go we reviewed the best mobile workstations.

Lenovo ThinkBook 16 G7 IML business laptop review
4:40 pm | August 9, 2024

Author: admin | Category: Computers Gadgets Pro | Comments: Off

Lenovo is a popular name in the world of professional laptops. Even in consumer-grade laptops, the company has made its mark. 

Lenovo has three main laptop tiers. The first is the IdeaPad, which is focused on consumer-level computing power. The best Lenovo ThinkPads are targeted at business professionals. And ThinkBooks like the ThinkBook 16 G7 IML sit somewhere in the middle, aimed at prosumers. 

But is is one of the best business laptops for those who need a machine for work and play? We put it to the test. 

Lenovo ThinkBook 16 G7 IML

(Image credit: Collin Probst // Future)

Lenovo ThinkBook 16 G7 IML: Unboxing & first impressions

The Lenovo ThinkBook 15 G7 IML Laptop was securely packaged in an eco-friendly box. Inside were the laptop, a 65W USB-C charger, and the documentation. All around, it was a pretty average unboxing experience.

Lenovo ThinkBook 16 G7 IML

(Image credit: Collin Probst // Future)

When I pulled the packing sleeve off the laptop, I appreciated its build quality. It feels high quality and sturdy, and it looks professional. I also didn't mind the grey color. While I prefer black or darker computers, grey still looks pretty good.

Lenovo ThinkBook 16 G7 IML

(Image credit: Collin Probst // Future)

Lenovo ThinkBook 16 G7 IML: Design & build quality

Specs

Processor: Up to Intel Core Ultra 7
Memory: Up to 64GB DDR5
Storage: Up to two M.2 PCIe NVMe SSDs
Display: 16” WQXGA (2560x1600) IPS, 350 nits, 100% sRGB, 120Hz
Graphics: Intel Arc graphics
Battery: 45Wh or 71Wh options, with Rapid Charge support
Operating System: Windows 11 Pro/Home

The ThinkBook 16 G7 IML has an aluminum top and PC-ABS bottom construction. It has a smooth-typing, spill-resistant keyboard and a large touchpad. It's worth noting that, unlike the ThinkPad, the ThinkBook does not have buttons with the touchpad, nor does it have the iconic red TouchPoint in the center of the keyboard.

As this is the newer generation of ThinkBooks, a dedicated Copilot button at the bottom of the keyboard allows quick and easy access to the Microsoft Copilot Ai assistant. This key is to the right of the right-most alt button, so it's easy to access when desired.

Lenovo ThinkBook 16 G7 IML

(Image credit: Collin Probst // Future)

One of the benefits of having a 16-inch screen is that the space allotted for a keyboard is much larger. Because of this, Lenovo was able to add a full numpad to the right of the full-size keyboard. For those who work with numbers or data entry, this could help speed up input exponentially, especially if you are already used to using a numpad.

Lenovo ThinkBook 16 G7 IML

(Image credit: Collin Probst // Future)

Lenovo ThinkBook 16 G7 IML: In use

I've had this laptop in rotation for a few months. Writing articles (such as this one) and spreadsheets or managing projects in programs like Notion, Asana, Monday.com, or Trello has been lovely. Thanks to the larger screen and quick processing power, this has also been fantastic for business admin tasks. I've flown through emails, putting together documents, basic photo editing, and a lot of internet-based work.

The 16-inch, high-resolution screen has also been great for portable work, especially around the house. It's larger than I would want to carry around as a remote/hybrid worker, but this has been great around the house. For example, I am writing this review sitting on my front porch while my kids play outside. The keyboard is comfortable enough that I don't need an external keyboard, and the trackpad is responsive. Today is overcast, making the screen bright for outdoor use. If it was a clear sky, and I had more direct sun on the screen, it would be harder to see but still usable.

Lenovo ThinkBook 16 G7 IML

(Image credit: Collin Probst // Future)

The entire UI feels fast and responsive, and everything loads quickly. The function row has a mic mute button, volume controls, screen brightness, smart keys, and more.

This laptop features Windows Hello for easy and secure sign-in, allowing you to log in using your face or fingerprint. The ports are excellent, with USB-A on both sides, Thunderbolt and a USB-C on the left side, full-size HDMI on the left side, and an Ethernet port and an SD card reader on the right.

Using this laptop for my business has been a great experience. It's surprisingly powerful and user-friendly. The addition of Copilot has significantly boosted productivity, and the enhanced power is a great bonus.

Lenovo ThinkBook 16 G7 IML: Final verdict

The Lenovo ThinkBook 16 G7 IML is a powerhouse for professionals who demand top-tier performance at the prosumer end of the market. It has a quality 16-inch display and a robust, stylish design. Its comprehensive connectivity options and high memory capacity make it ideal for demanding business tasks. While its weight and battery life in certain configurations might be minor drawbacks, the overall package is highly compelling for anyone seeking a reliable and powerful business laptop.


For more Lenovo laptops, we reviewed the best mobile workstations.

Beats Solo Buds review: budget earbuds with an epic battery… but where’s the bass?
2:34 pm |

Author: admin | Category: Audio Computers Gadgets Headphones | Comments: Off

Beats Solo Buds: two-minute review

The Beats Solo Buds are the cheapest earbuds the brand has ever made. Arriving in a compact package, they’re easy to sling in a bag or back pocket, lacking the bulk of many  more premium true wireless options. They also come with possibly the best in-bud battery life I’ve ever seen, stretching easily to several days of intense listening. Nevertheless, they make several compromises that mean they're harder to recommend for serious music fans.

The Beats Solo Buds offer a good range of features – although, inevitably, not anywhere close to the number that come with pricier models. Multi-point pairing is rock solid, while one-touch pairing makes connecting them a dream for Apple users. Literally all I had to do was tap them to my devices and I was good to go.

Once you’re connected, you can settle in for a lengthy listening session: Beats states that the earbuds’ internal battery will last for an epic 18 hours – which rivals that of almost any of the best wireless earbuds. And while there’s no additional charge in the case, the Solo Buds’ fast-charging means you’ll gain a full hour of listening from plugging them in for just five minutes. No more worrying about your buds dying when you’re only part of the way home from work.

There are definitely a few features absent here, though. The lack of active noise cancellation means these aren’t the best buds for keeping background noise at bay. Often I also found myself missing the in-ear detection that many rivals offer, so they auto-pause when you remove them. There are no fancy smart features here such as spatial audio with head tracking or adaptive EQ, either.

In addition, when it comes to sound quality, the Solo Buds are a bit of a mixed bag. For a lot of people, Beats means bass; but the brand has changed its priorities in recent times, refocusing on feature-set over whomping bass. This is fully evident in the Solo Buds, which lack impact and definition in the low end; without the bass to provide a firm footing, busier mixes can end up sounding a little ill-defined.

It’s not all disappointing, though: the Beats Solo Buds deliver crisp and clear mids, showcasing vocals and many acoustic instruments at their best. Admittedly, the highest trebles do pull a few punches – but for me, that remains preferable than an overly bright and brittle edge to hats and guitars. Plus, they still manage a good sense of separation between different instruments when you’re listening to less crowded recordings.

Perhaps not surprisingly for a brand such as Beats, design is where the Solo Buds really shine. They’re some of the smallest buds I’ve ever seen: they sit relatively discreetly in your ears unlike many of the gargantuan earbuds on the market. And thanks to the lack of a separate battery, their case is slight enough that I could carry the buds around in my pocket everywhere I went, and only really think of them when I needed them.

Moreover, they’re some of the most comfortable buds I’ve ever worn. Being secure enough to stay in your ears while not being so unyielding that they start to ache during long listening sessions is a tightrope many earbuds struggle to walk; the Beats Solo Buds cartwheel along it. The only discomfort I ever experienced was due to the placement of their button – given it sits opposite your ear canal, I felt like I might  puncture my brain or had to grasp the bud awkwardly every time I went to press it.

Not everyone is looking for the same things from earbuds. So if your priority is cool-looking, super-comfortable buds with a life that would make Methuselah envious, then they’re a solid choice. However, those looking for superior sound quality or features such as ANC would ultimately be better off with the Sony WF-C700N for a very similar price, or opting for another pair from our list of the best budget wireless earbuds instead.

Beats Solo Buds review: price & release date

The Beats Solo Buds come with a price tag of $79.99 / £79.99 / AU$129.95. This makes them the cheapest wireless earbuds the brand has ever produced, something that I’m certain makes them a super-tempting proposition for cash-strapped fans of the best Beats headphones.

They come in four different colorways. Matte Black and Storm Grey probably speak for themselves, given they’re basically the same hues that the majority of earbuds arrive in, but the Beats Solo Buds are also available in the more vibrant options of Arctic Purple (our review model), which is a pleasingly subtle lavender hue, and Transparent Red, a bold crimson with a translucent case.

Beats Solo Buds review: specs

The Beats Solo Buds

(Image credit: Future)

Beats Solo Buds review: features

  • Epic in-bud battery life…
  • … but no in-case charging
  • Fewer features than more expensive buds

For a pair of affordable earbuds, the Beats Solo Buds have a very solid feature set – even if they can’t eclipse many of their more high-end rivals.

Apple’s one-touch pairing is excellent, as always. Holding up the Solo Buds’ case to my iPhone 13 Pro, they paired in a trice. Pairing with my MacBook required a few more steps, but it was still trivially simple. In addition, the improvements in recent versions of Bluetooth have made chopping and changing between devices so much easier – I never once struggled to switch between my phone and laptop, with the buds switching as soon as I tapped their icon in Bluetooth settings.

Perhaps the biggest selling point of the Solo Buds is their battery life, which Beats maintains is an absurd 18 hours. This is a hell of a claim – and naturally, I wasn’t going to just take it as granted, so I set them to play continuous 256kbps audio at half volume for six hours. My skepticism was entirely unfounded. During that time, the battery drained just 34%, meaning that a rough life of 17.5 hours is entirely realistic. That’s an unreal amount of listening to get from a single charge, and I’ve never seen another pair of earbuds come close.

However, this does come with a heavy caveat. The Solo Buds’ super-slim case comes at the cost of an internal battery, which means that 18 hours is the total: you won’t get any more juice while the buds are stowed in the case.

Nevertheless, their fast-charging feature – or Fast Fuel, as it’s inexplicably dubbed – is a huge help when that battery does finally run flat. Keen to test Beats’ claims that it would deliver a full hour of juice after just five minutes of charging, I plugged them in for five minutes via USB-C and then listened at half volume until the battery died. They lasted 75 minutes, smashing the figure the brand promised.

The ability to charge the buds from your phone is also a seriously helpful feature when you’re caught short and don’t have access to a socket. However, it’s worth bearing in mind that you’ll only be able to access this feature if you have an iPhone 15 or a compatible Android device; sadly, anyone without a USB-C-powered device is out of luck. Still, you’ll likely be topping up far less than you’d expect, making these buds a good choice for someone who loves marathon listening sessions.

As mentioned, there are a fair few features missing from the Beats Solo Buds compared to more premium buds. If you’re hoping for active noise cancelling, you should look elsewhere – for example, the Nothing Ear (a) and Sony WF-C700N for only slightly more, or the Earfun Air Pro 3 for slightly less (though these are much bulkier).

Some of the features of Apple’s AirPods haven’t trickled down here, either: there’s no adaptive EQ that uses clever algorithms to optimize audio to the shape of your ears. Additionally, despite still having settings on the iPhone referring to Automatic Ear Detection, so they pause when removed or play when replaced automatically, the Solo Buds don’t actually offer it. It isn’t an essential feature; but once you’ve been relying on it, it’s hard to go back to buds that aren’t capable of it.

Finally, while the box advertises that the Beats Solo Buds have Spatial Audio, don’t get too excited – it doesn’t offer the fancy head-tracking that the AirPods Pro 2 and Beats Fit Pro do. Instead, this simply means you’ll get the same audio processing algorithms that allow other bog-standard buds to add extra separation to Dolby Atmos music with Apple devices.

  • Features score: 3.5 / 5

The Beats Solo Buds

(Image credit: Future)

Beats Solo Buds review: sound quality

  • Weak bass
  • Bit on the quiet side
  • Call quality is decent

I’ll be 100% honest: when I first listened to the Beats Solo Buds, my response was… not good. The sound struck me as anemic, with a weak low end and a muffled treble; it gave me the uncomfortable sensation of my ears being stuffed with cotton wool. Worse, the volume was deeply underwhelming. I worked out that I was listening in Dolby Atmos mostly, and this was the culprit – it's much quieter, and mixed differently. I wouldn’t recommend dabbling in this for music with these buds, since it involves a few too many compromises.

So how do the Beats Solo Buds perform when they’re not attempting to simulate 3D soundtracks? The answer is probably “better… but not the best”. 

For a brand that was once synonymous with bountiful bass, Beats has really struggled to get much oomph out of the Solo Buds’ low end. Listening to Go Your Own Way by Fleetwood Mac, I found the toms and snares cut through well, giving the song a decent pace, while those crisp guitar strings displayed plenty of bite. Unfortunately, though, the bass guitar was almost entirely lost in the mix, which is a bit of a shame and makes the result feel a bit lacking in guts.

It’s not all bad news: these earbuds can definitely make certain frequencies in the mix shine. When I listened to St. Thomas by Sonny Rollins, Tommy Flanagan, Doug Watkins and Max Roach, Rollins’ sax line clearly sat in that acoustic sweet spot, soaring over the mix with all the expected harmonic richness, while the click of Roach’s drumsticks and the taut skins of the toms were easily appreciable. Unfortunately, the piano was mostly lost in the mix – it felt like a word that was on the tip of my tongue, so nearly in grasp and yet just out of reach.

And this becomes more noticeable depending on the quality of the material you feed these buds. While listening to Black Eye by Allie X on Apple Music’s higher-quality 256kbps AAC setting, I was impressed with the punch of the snare and the trebly kick, while those poppy synth lines really felt clear and immediate. However, swapping to Spotify’s more lossy, 160kbps free tier showed up more of the Solo Buds’ flaws – the mix sounded a little more cohesive but also quite insubstantial, with the sound much more concentrated around the mid-highs and coming out quite a bit quieter to boot.

On the plus side, when you’re listening to sparser recordings, the Beats Solo Buds do a pretty respectable job of positioning things in the mix, with each element able to enjoy much more space and clarity. Listening to Timeless by Poppy Ackroyd, I could hear the timbre of instruments much better than in more crowded recordings – the pizzicato strings and the creak of the piano mechanism were so wonderfully crisp in comparison to the more muted tone of the keys and the sweet ebb and flow of the bowed violin.

Sadly, the Beats Solo Buds aren’t especially loud. Often when I was using them in the office, it felt like the sounds of typing, chatter and gadget wrangling were more audible than the music to which I was listening. This wouldn’t be a massive issue in and of itself, but the earbuds also don’t present the best noise isolation. Playing podcasts in a quiet room, you can hear all the facts and banter with crystal clarity; when you’re walking along a busy street, they have stiff competition from the world around you. This means the Beats Solo Buds are almost certainly safe for listening to while cycling during rush hour, but less good if you’re looking to shut the world out on your commute.

While I was out and about, I also tested the Solo Buds’ leading-edge microphones to see how they handled voice quality for phone calls. While I didn’t get quite the crystal clarity you sometimes get from premium, over-ear cans, the people on the other end of the line said they could always hear me just fine, even when cars were tearing past. And this was borne out when I recorded some voice notes: traffic caused a slight whoosh as it went by, but not the roar you’d expect, showing how hard the algorithm is working to keep your voice clear.

  • Sound quality: 3 / 5

Female reviewer with blonde and pink hair modeling the Beats Solo Buds

TechRadar’s reviewer Cesci Angell kindly modeling the Beats Solo Buds for me – my nails are definitely not that well manicured. (Image credit: Future)

Beats Solo Buds review: design

  • Super comfortable fit
  • Attractive design and slim case
  • Button placement isn’t particularly ergonomic

While the Beats Solo Buds might not be an unqualified sonic success, their design definitely still feels like it has plenty of the old Beats magic. Visually, they’re deeply pleasing, featuring gentle rounded curves, rather than the unsightly tacked-on discs, stems and other protuberances you often see in earbuds these days. And while the buds themselves are slight and lightweight, it’s the case that really impresses: it’s far more slimline than many others out there, which makes losing out on extra battery charges for your buds an almost worthwhile sacrifice.

The various colors available look great as well. Personally, I feel that the Arctic Purple I received for review is the best of the bunch; but Transparent Red also looks great and is the obvious choice for anyone wanting to shout about their new pair of Beats from the rooftops. Matte Black and Storm Grey are more restrained but nevertheless exude class. No matter which color you choose, you can be sure of one thing: these look far better than your average pair of budget earbuds.

Both the buds and the case are made from a gloriously smooth matte plastic that feels great under your fingertips. The buds themselves feel particularly tactile; often I found myself reaching for them over other earbuds just because I enjoyed the way they felt in my hands. And they pop in and out of the case with a satisfying click as the magnets lock them into place – a nice bit of near-haptic feedback, so you know immediately that your buds have found their way home.

The Beats Solo Buds come with silicone ear tips in four different sizes, from small to extra large. After experimenting with every size, I found that the medium provided me with the best seal; but, naturally, you’ll want to try them all to find what works best for your ears.

Having tested no end of earphones and earbuds over the years, I can honestly say that the Beats Solo Buds are some of the most comfortable I’ve ever tried. They sat snugly in my ears, with the ear tips forming a close seal in my ear canal. Their contours closely mirrored the shape of my ear, meaning they never once felt loose or even needed adjusting, and they didn’t get uncomfortable, even after long listening sessions.

Keen to really put this fit to the test, I even tried doing a couple of workouts with the buds in my ears. Now, the Beats Solo Buds aren’t really designed for exercise, and their lack of IP rating means that they won’t be able to withstand sweat as well as actual dedicated workout buds – so you might not want to try this at home. Still, the buds stayed firmly in place, even during my most high-intensity workout, which means you can definitely count on them to stay put while you dash for a train.

That’s not to say the Beats Solo Buds are completely free of missteps where their design is concerned. First of all, their lack of stems and relatively uniform design means that, on occasion, I’d absent-mindedly find myself trying to put them in the wrong way up. This can be solved fairly simply by looking closely at the bud before you insert it, but it’s easy to forget this when you’re in the middle of other things.

Personally, though, I find this less of an issue than the controls. Like many earbuds, the Solo Buds feature a multi-purpose button on each bud that you press a certain number of times for various actions: once, for play/pause; twice, for skip forward; and three times, for skip backward. Unfortunately, the positioning of the button means pressing it drives the whole bud deep into your ear canal, making me feel like I was going to perforate an eardrum every time I paused my music. Eventually I realized that gripping the bud at the top and bottom with my fingers stabilized it enough to allow me to press the button without discomfort; but I feel like lowering the pressure required to push the button or repositioning the button would have been much more ergonomic.

  • Design: 4.5 / 5

Beats Solo Buds review: value

  • Cheapest earbuds Beats have ever sold…
  • But they don’t offer as good value as other affordable buds
  • You can get better sound for your spend

How sweet a deal you’re getting with the Beats Solo Buds will almost certainly depend on your perspective. As I’ve already mentioned, these are the cheapest wireless earbuds the brand has ever offered, and if you’ve been clamoring for a pair of Beats but have only a modest budget, then these will definitely scratch that itch for you.

However, in comparison to other products on the market, I’m not convinced that they offer the absolute best return on investment. Both the Sony WF-C700N and Nothing Ear (a) offer more well-rounded, energetic sound, not to mention ANC to boot – and while they both retail for $20 / £20 or less more, they’re often on sale for a similar price or even cheaper than the Solo Buds.

If you’re not so bothered about sound quality and just want a stylish, super-comfortable set of buds with epic battery life, this is still a very reasonable price. But if you want the best sound quality for your buck, you might be better off looking elsewhere.

  • Value score: 3 / 5

Should I buy the Beats Solo Buds?

Buy them if…

You want super-comfortable buds you can slip in a pocket
These tiny buds not only feel comfortable for long listening sessions but their super-slimline case is easy to slip into a pocket and forget it’s even there. That makes them perfect for carrying wherever you go.

You want hours of listening without having top them up
With their 18-hour battery life, the Beats Solo Buds will go on and on without you ever having to take them out of your ears. If you have a long trip or a marathon coming up, these buds will last you – and then some.

Don’t buy them if…

You want the best audio quality for your buck
Frankly, well-rounded audio is not the Solo Buds’ strong suit. And while no budget earbuds will offer truly audiophile-grade sound, many similarly priced buds offer more confident, satisfying sound.

You want to hear your tunes and nothing else
Given their relative quietness and their lack of noise isolation, these aren’t buds for shutting out the world. Instead, they’ll leave you very aware of your surroundings – whether you want to be or not.

Beats Solo Buds review: also consider

Nothing Ear (a)
Costing only $20 / £20 (roughly AU$52) more than the Solo Buds – and often less than that – the Nothing Ear (a) are an enticing all-round package. They offer emphatic, detailed sound, effective noise-canceling, and in-ear detection. And that zesty yellow colorway makes them even more eye-catching than a pair of Beats. Here's our full Nothing Ear (a) review.

Sony WF-C700N
Not only do the Sony WF-C700N offer wonderfully clear, well-rounded sound, but they also rock Sony’s spatial-audio equivalent 360 Reality Audio. On top of this, their Adaptive Sound Control learns your routine, automatically tailoring their noise canceling based on whether you’re sat at your desk or out for a run. Here's our full Sony WF-C700N review.

Beats Solo Buds review: How I tested

  • I used them for over two weeks
  • Listened to a wide array of music, podcasts and movie soundtracks
  • Compared them against other affordable earbuds

To test the Beats Solo Buds, I used them for over two weeks. I connected them to multiple different devices, including my iPhone 13 Pro and MacBook Pro. 

I listened to a wide range of content, from compressed Spotify streams to higher-quality audio on Apple Music. Not only did I listen to tracks from TechRadar’s testing playlist, but a wide variety of genres outside of this, as well as listening to a range of podcasts and watching several TV shows and movies.

I tested their fit doing both cardio and weight-training workouts. And I tested their microphones by recording multiple voice notes and making several phone calls.

I also compared the Beats Solo Buds directly against similarly priced earbuds, as well as utilizing years of experience testing other headphones and audio gear.

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