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Asus ZenWiFi BT10 review: sleek and super fast Wi-Fi 7 mesh, but you’ll pay for it
7:35 am | February 13, 2025
Author: admin | Category: Computers Computing Computing Components Gadgets Servers & Network Devices | Tags: , | Comments: Off

Asus ZenWiFi BT10: Two-minute review

Back in the olden days of Wi-Fi 5, it was Asus’ ZenWiFi ‘mega mesh’ wireless routers that led the world. While regular mesh systems merely dribbled performance across numerous network nodes (like many still do), the ZenWiFi nodes innovatively used secondary 5GHz channels (plus, the nascent 6GHz channel) as fast backhaul to maintain peak performance at a distance. Nowadays, such advantages are built into the Wi-Fi 6E and Wi-Fi 7 standards, so where does that leave a Wi-Fi 7 version in the form of the ZenWiFi BT10? Let’s find out.

The two smart-looking nodes seem identical, but note the discreet sticker denoting one as the master. Failing to notice this may lead to hair being torn out, swearing for half an hour, decrying the powers that be and wondering why the dang thing won’t connect when you’ve obviously done everything right, repeatedly checked the password and #$@&%! drat. Otherwise, the setup process is simple via the phone app.

The app provides the usual monitoring and management settings on the first screen, and immediately asks if you want to reset the default password and set up a separate IoT network. You can assign devices to people, limit bandwidth, block them or assign them QoS optimizations for gaming, streaming or WFH. An ‘Insight’ tab provides suggestions for security and optimization. The Family tab enables you to set content filtering and on/off schedules (and, unlike some rivals, these settings are free).

Other features include Asus’ (Trend Micro-powered) AiProtection, which scans and protects your network as well as all the devices on it. The usual networking tools are available, including Google Assistant voice control. Ultimately, it’s well-featured and very intuitive. My main concern is that the QoS controls have a feature that tracks the websites used by everyone on the network. That raises some serious privacy issues.

Wired connections are the same on both nodes: there’s Gigabit WAN/LAN, 10G Ethernet WAN/LAN, and 10G Ethernet LAN. All the ports are color coded but that could be confusing to some users. There’s also a USB 3.0 port, which can be used for file sharing and media serving.

So how does it perform? On paper, the ZenWiFi BT10 is a tri-band router with 18,000 Mbps worth of throughput. Note, you can choose to reserve the 6GHz channel for backhaul, but leaving it at ‘Auto’ saw better results. I tested it by downloading video files from a Synology NAS to an HP OmniBook Ultra Flip 14 at close range, two rooms away (by the second node, at the front of the house) and 15 meters away in the back garden. It scored 1,661 Mbps, 614 Mbps and 370 Mbps, respectively, which is an excellent result.

All in all, the Asus ZenWiFi BT10 is a very appealing package that looks good, offers heaps of intuitive and useful features, plus fast performance to boot. Then there’s the price… Two nodes cost an eye-watering $900 / £779 / AU$2,799. Still, if you need high-end functionality and speed, it’s hard to beat.

Asus ZenWiFi BT10 review: Price and availability

Asus ZenWiFi BT10 from the side with power cable, on a wooden desk

(Image credit: Future)
  • How much does it cost? $900 / £779 / AU$2,799
  • When is it available? Now
  • Where can you get it? Available in the US, UK, and Australia

Asus has a plethora of Wi-Fi 7 routers, but (like other vendors) it’s pushing the expensive premium models out first. I saw many of its budget Wi-Fi 7 routers at the Computex 2024 trade show and those will offer similar features at lower cost, but there’s no sign of them appearing in most markets, at least not at the time of publication.

Until then, we’re stuck with inflated price tags. It costs $900 in the US, £779 in the UK and AU$2,799 in Australia. For some reason, Aussies seem to be getting particularly hard done by in this case. Most regions sell single nodes, but only a few, it seems, sell the three-node kit.

A tempting alternative is the Asus ROG Rapture GT-BE98. While it’s not a mesh system, the powerful gaming behemoth can single-handedly rival the speeds, performance and features of the BT10, but at a cheaper price. As with most current Asus routers, older models or cheap ones can be used as nodes thanks to Asus’ AiMesh technology – a potentially affordable way of expanding the network into dead zones. However, it’s quite a confronting device and not everyone will want what looks like a giant robot spider in their home.

  • Value score: 4 / 5

Asus ZenWiFi BT10 review: Specifications

Asus ZenWiFi BT10 close up of the ports

(Image credit: Future)

Asus ZenWiFi BT10 review: Design

  • Sleek enough for a stylish home
  • Simple to set up
  • App (and web-based firmware) are responsive, powerful and intuitive

The physical design of the ZenWiFi BT10 is not far from its predecessor, the ZenWiFi AX XT8. The grilles at the sides are more refined, but both will happily fit into a stylish home or office better than most on the market.

Setting it up is simple, thanks to the mature, intuitive and well-featured app. Just note that, despite the similarities, there’s a sticker on the primary node and you need to connect to that, as using the secondary node won’t work.

While there are many features accessible within the app, Asus has these and many more advanced options accessible via a web browser, and both interfaces are intuitive and responsive to use.

  • Design score: 5 / 5

Asus ZenWiFi BT10 review: Features

Asus ZenWiFi BT10 app screenshots

(Image credit: Future)
  • Security and Parental controls are included (without subscription)
  • Has almost every consumer networking feature under the sun
  • 10G Ethernet LAN and WAN ports

The Asus router app has been around for some time now and it’s well laid out, intuitive and packed full of features. The opening screen displays a wireless network map and provides a button to manually run a wireless-optimization cycle. There’s a real-time traffic monitor, CPU and RAM monitor, and an at-a-glance display of what type of devices are connected wirelessly and via cables.

The second tab breaks down which devices are connected along with their IP addresses and the resources they’re using. You can easily block them or assign them to family members to provide parental controls. There’s also the ability to configure Asus' AiMesh feature which lets you do things like turn the LEDs off, prioritize the 6GHz channel for backhaul or client connection, and see details like the IP address, MAC address and firmware version. The Insight tab offers smart recommendations regarding using secure connections, intrusion prevention and setting up family groups.

The built-in network security is called Asus AiProtection and it’s powered by Trend Micro. In addition to providing network security assessments, it offers malicious site blocking, two-way intrusion prevention and infected device isolation. It also powers the parental controls and (mercifully) doesn’t require a separate premium subscription – unlike other rivals.

The Family tab lets you add people and their devices to customizable and preset groups. This can provide web filtering that’s suitable for different children’s age groups (plus adults), setting up both online and offline schedules for each day of the week. Again, I’m very pleased to see Asus provide these features without asking for a subscription fee.

The final tab offers access to other standard router features, including QoS and VPN. While the analysis features that come with this are useful, I am concerned about the website history logging, which enables people to spy on the online activity of everyone on the network. You can also set up a USB port as a SAMBA media server or FTP file server, and there’s the ability to add Alexa and Google Assistant integration.

Accessing the firmware via a web browser provides access to all of the above along with functions like adding Dual WAN, 3G / 4G LTE USB WAN, Port Forwarding, Port Triggering, DMZ, DDNS, IPTV, automatic BitTorrent downloading, VPN management; Apple Time Machine compatibility, Shared Folder Privileges, among other high-level, network-admin features. Just note that many of these are available on Asus’ lesser routers, so don’t splash out on an expensive model just because one catches your eye.

Physically, each node has Gigabit WAN, 10G Ethernet LAN, and 10G Ethernet WAN/LAN network ports, plus a USB-A 3.0 connection. It’s also worth mentioning Asus’ AiMesh feature which can use most current (and many older), cheap and premium Asus routers as nodes to further extend a network.

  • Features: 5 / 5

Asus ZenWiFi BT10 review: Performance

  • Tri-band Wi-Fi 7 for blistering real-world speed
  • One of the best performers at long range
  • 10G Ethernet for fast wired connections
Asus ZenWiFi BT10 benchmarks

Close range: 1,661 Mbps
Medium range: 614 Mbps
Long range: 370 Mbps

The tri-band (2.4GHz, 5GHz and 6GHz) router promises 18,000 Mbps of theoretical performance, but that only exists in lab conditions and certainly can’t be achieved in the real world where every network’s situation will be different. It’s possible to reserve the 6GHz channel for backhaul only, but leaving it set to ‘Auto’ saw better results.

I ran my tests, which included downloading large video files from a Synology NAS (with a wired, 10G Ethernet port) connected to the router, to a Wi-Fi 7-equipped HP OmniBook Ultra Flip 14 laptop at three different ranges.

Up close, it managed 1,661 Mbps, which I’ve only seen beaten by Netgear’s Nighthawk 7 RS700S Wi-Fi router. Two rooms away, at the front of my single-story home (by the second node), it managed 614 Mbps. While that’s a significant drop, it’s still impressive, although other premium routers and mesh systems can be a bit faster. More impressively, the BT10 managed 370 Mbps, 15 meters away, outside the home in the garden. Only top-tier three-node mesh systems have rivaled that (and not all do).

In short, it’s very fast indeed, and I happily edited 4K video on my laptop from across the network with no issues at all.

  • Performance: 5 / 5

Asus ZenWiFi BT10 from above, showing vents

(Image credit: Future)

Should you buy the Asus ZenWiFi BT10?

Buy it if...

You want fast Wi-Fi
Wi-Fi 7 really is a game-changer in that it offers superlative performance for old and new devices alike. I never like calling anything future-proof, but the fact that only cutting-edge clients can come close to accessing its full performance is telling. It will be a very long time before it feels slow.

You have weak Wi-Fi in some areas
Some premium routers do a great job of distributing a strong signal across a large area. But there are plenty of larger buildings that have dead spots due to size or thick walls. If that’s the case, the BT10 will likely help you out, and you can still add additional nodes via Asus’ AiMesh technology.

You hate subscriptions
It’s been disappointing to see that some premium-brand routers now come with core features that you have to pay even more for. In some cases, that means paying for both parental controls and security software, separately. Asus deserves credit for keeping it all free.

Don't buy it if…

You want to save money
The BT10, like many premium Wi-Fi 7 kits, is incredibly expensive. While it’s nice to have a future-proof setup, you can still buy last-gen Wi-Fi 6 and 6E models, with similar features for substantially less. You can also add cheap nodes using old and cheap Asus routers that are AiMesh compatible.

You live in Australia
Australians appear to be the victims of price gouging when it comes to premium Wi-Fi 7 networking devices. The price here is anomalously high compared to other regions, even with the usual tax and shipping issues.

You only want basic features
Some people just want to access the internet without much fuss. If that’s the case, then the BT10 is overpowered, over-featured and overpriced for your requirements. You can save a massive amount of money on a lesser device that will still fulfill your needs.

Also consider

If you're undecided about investing in the Asus ZenWiFi BT10 router, I've compared its specs with three alternatives that might suit you better.

Netgear Nighthawk RS700S
The elder sibling of the RS300 is twice as expensive, but it provides Wi-Fi 7 with an even faster speed of 19 Gbps, and has 10G Ethernet, so is great for high-speed broadband connections.

Read our full Nighthawk RS700S review

Asus ROG Rapture GT-BE98
This giant robot spider is the ZenWiFi BT10’s big, gamer-oriented brother. If you can get past the looks, it features similar features and performance in one, less-expensive package.

Read our full Asus ROG Rapture GT-BE98 review

TP-Link Deco BE63
It’s more mature in the market and the price has dropped even more. You also get three nodes to spread the signal even further. It’s a great-value Wi-Fi 7 mesh kit.

Read our full TP-Link Deco BE63 review

How I tested the Asus ZenWiFi BT10

  • I tested it in typical home use
  • I tested it at short, medium and long range
  • I tested both the wired and wireless connections

We pride ourselves on our independence and our rigorous review-testing process, offering up long-term attention to the products we review and making sure our reviews are updated and maintained - regardless of when a device was released, if you can still buy it, it's on our radar.

Read more about how we test

  • First reviewed in February 2025
Asus ZenWiFi BT10 review: sleek and super fast Wi-Fi 7 mesh, but you’ll pay for it
7:35 am |
Author: admin | Category: Computers Computing Computing Components Gadgets Servers & Network Devices | Tags: , | Comments: Off

Asus ZenWiFi BT10: Two-minute review

Back in the olden days of Wi-Fi 5, it was Asus’ ZenWiFi ‘mega mesh’ wireless routers that led the world. While regular mesh systems merely dribbled performance across numerous network nodes (like many still do), the ZenWiFi nodes innovatively used secondary 5GHz channels (plus, the nascent 6GHz channel) as fast backhaul to maintain peak performance at a distance. Nowadays, such advantages are built into the Wi-Fi 6E and Wi-Fi 7 standards, so where does that leave a Wi-Fi 7 version in the form of the ZenWiFi BT10? Let’s find out.

The two smart-looking nodes seem identical, but note the discreet sticker denoting one as the master. Failing to notice this may lead to hair being torn out, swearing for half an hour, decrying the powers that be and wondering why the dang thing won’t connect when you’ve obviously done everything right, repeatedly checked the password and #$@&%! drat. Otherwise, the setup process is simple via the phone app.

The app provides the usual monitoring and management settings on the first screen, and immediately asks if you want to reset the default password and set up a separate IoT network. You can assign devices to people, limit bandwidth, block them or assign them QoS optimizations for gaming, streaming or WFH. An ‘Insight’ tab provides suggestions for security and optimization. The Family tab enables you to set content filtering and on/off schedules (and, unlike some rivals, these settings are free).

Other features include Asus’ (Trend Micro-powered) AiProtection, which scans and protects your network as well as all the devices on it. The usual networking tools are available, including Google Assistant voice control. Ultimately, it’s well-featured and very intuitive. My main concern is that the QoS controls have a feature that tracks the websites used by everyone on the network. That raises some serious privacy issues.

Wired connections are the same on both nodes: there’s Gigabit WAN/LAN, 10G Ethernet WAN/LAN, and 10G Ethernet LAN. All the ports are color coded but that could be confusing to some users. There’s also a USB 3.0 port, which can be used for file sharing and media serving.

So how does it perform? On paper, the ZenWiFi BT10 is a tri-band router with 18,000 Mbps worth of throughput. Note, you can choose to reserve the 6GHz channel for backhaul, but leaving it at ‘Auto’ saw better results. I tested it by downloading video files from a Synology NAS to an HP OmniBook Ultra Flip 14 at close range, two rooms away (by the second node, at the front of the house) and 15 meters away in the back garden. It scored 1,661 Mbps, 614 Mbps and 370 Mbps, respectively, which is an excellent result.

All in all, the Asus ZenWiFi BT10 is a very appealing package that looks good, offers heaps of intuitive and useful features, plus fast performance to boot. Then there’s the price… Two nodes cost an eye-watering $900 / £779 / AU$2,799. Still, if you need high-end functionality and speed, it’s hard to beat.

Asus ZenWiFi BT10 review: Price and availability

Asus ZenWiFi BT10 from the side with power cable, on a wooden desk

(Image credit: Future)
  • How much does it cost? $900 / £779 / AU$2,799
  • When is it available? Now
  • Where can you get it? Available in the US, UK, and Australia

Asus has a plethora of Wi-Fi 7 routers, but (like other vendors) it’s pushing the expensive premium models out first. I saw many of its budget Wi-Fi 7 routers at the Computex 2024 trade show and those will offer similar features at lower cost, but there’s no sign of them appearing in most markets, at least not at the time of publication.

Until then, we’re stuck with inflated price tags. It costs $900 in the US, £779 in the UK and AU$2,799 in Australia. For some reason, Aussies seem to be getting particularly hard done by in this case. Most regions sell single nodes, but only a few, it seems, sell the three-node kit.

A tempting alternative is the Asus ROG Rapture GT-BE98. While it’s not a mesh system, the powerful gaming behemoth can single-handedly rival the speeds, performance and features of the BT10, but at a cheaper price. As with most current Asus routers, older models or cheap ones can be used as nodes thanks to Asus’ AiMesh technology – a potentially affordable way of expanding the network into dead zones. However, it’s quite a confronting device and not everyone will want what looks like a giant robot spider in their home.

  • Value score: 4 / 5

Asus ZenWiFi BT10 review: Specifications

Asus ZenWiFi BT10 close up of the ports

(Image credit: Future)

Asus ZenWiFi BT10 review: Design

  • Sleek enough for a stylish home
  • Simple to set up
  • App (and web-based firmware) are responsive, powerful and intuitive

The physical design of the ZenWiFi BT10 is not far from its predecessor, the ZenWiFi AX XT8. The grilles at the sides are more refined, but both will happily fit into a stylish home or office better than most on the market.

Setting it up is simple, thanks to the mature, intuitive and well-featured app. Just note that, despite the similarities, there’s a sticker on the primary node and you need to connect to that, as using the secondary node won’t work.

While there are many features accessible within the app, Asus has these and many more advanced options accessible via a web browser, and both interfaces are intuitive and responsive to use.

  • Design score: 5 / 5

Asus ZenWiFi BT10 review: Features

Asus ZenWiFi BT10 app screenshots

(Image credit: Future)
  • Security and Parental controls are included (without subscription)
  • Has almost every consumer networking feature under the sun
  • 10G Ethernet LAN and WAN ports

The Asus router app has been around for some time now and it’s well laid out, intuitive and packed full of features. The opening screen displays a wireless network map and provides a button to manually run a wireless-optimization cycle. There’s a real-time traffic monitor, CPU and RAM monitor, and an at-a-glance display of what type of devices are connected wirelessly and via cables.

The second tab breaks down which devices are connected along with their IP addresses and the resources they’re using. You can easily block them or assign them to family members to provide parental controls. There’s also the ability to configure Asus' AiMesh feature which lets you do things like turn the LEDs off, prioritize the 6GHz channel for backhaul or client connection, and see details like the IP address, MAC address and firmware version. The Insight tab offers smart recommendations regarding using secure connections, intrusion prevention and setting up family groups.

The built-in network security is called Asus AiProtection and it’s powered by Trend Micro. In addition to providing network security assessments, it offers malicious site blocking, two-way intrusion prevention and infected device isolation. It also powers the parental controls and (mercifully) doesn’t require a separate premium subscription – unlike other rivals.

The Family tab lets you add people and their devices to customizable and preset groups. This can provide web filtering that’s suitable for different children’s age groups (plus adults), setting up both online and offline schedules for each day of the week. Again, I’m very pleased to see Asus provide these features without asking for a subscription fee.

The final tab offers access to other standard router features, including QoS and VPN. While the analysis features that come with this are useful, I am concerned about the website history logging, which enables people to spy on the online activity of everyone on the network. You can also set up a USB port as a SAMBA media server or FTP file server, and there’s the ability to add Alexa and Google Assistant integration.

Accessing the firmware via a web browser provides access to all of the above along with functions like adding Dual WAN, 3G / 4G LTE USB WAN, Port Forwarding, Port Triggering, DMZ, DDNS, IPTV, automatic BitTorrent downloading, VPN management; Apple Time Machine compatibility, Shared Folder Privileges, among other high-level, network-admin features. Just note that many of these are available on Asus’ lesser routers, so don’t splash out on an expensive model just because one catches your eye.

Physically, each node has Gigabit WAN, 10G Ethernet LAN, and 10G Ethernet WAN/LAN network ports, plus a USB-A 3.0 connection. It’s also worth mentioning Asus’ AiMesh feature which can use most current (and many older), cheap and premium Asus routers as nodes to further extend a network.

  • Features: 5 / 5

Asus ZenWiFi BT10 review: Performance

  • Tri-band Wi-Fi 7 for blistering real-world speed
  • One of the best performers at long range
  • 10G Ethernet for fast wired connections
Asus ZenWiFi BT10 benchmarks

Close range: 1,661 Mbps
Medium range: 614 Mbps
Long range: 370 Mbps

The tri-band (2.4GHz, 5GHz and 6GHz) router promises 18,000 Mbps of theoretical performance, but that only exists in lab conditions and certainly can’t be achieved in the real world where every network’s situation will be different. It’s possible to reserve the 6GHz channel for backhaul only, but leaving it set to ‘Auto’ saw better results.

I ran my tests, which included downloading large video files from a Synology NAS (with a wired, 10G Ethernet port) connected to the router, to a Wi-Fi 7-equipped HP OmniBook Ultra Flip 14 laptop at three different ranges.

Up close, it managed 1,661 Mbps, which I’ve only seen beaten by Netgear’s Nighthawk 7 RS700S Wi-Fi router. Two rooms away, at the front of my single-story home (by the second node), it managed 614 Mbps. While that’s a significant drop, it’s still impressive, although other premium routers and mesh systems can be a bit faster. More impressively, the BT10 managed 370 Mbps, 15 meters away, outside the home in the garden. Only top-tier three-node mesh systems have rivaled that (and not all do).

In short, it’s very fast indeed, and I happily edited 4K video on my laptop from across the network with no issues at all.

  • Performance: 5 / 5

Asus ZenWiFi BT10 from above, showing vents

(Image credit: Future)

Should you buy the Asus ZenWiFi BT10?

Buy it if...

You want fast Wi-Fi
Wi-Fi 7 really is a game-changer in that it offers superlative performance for old and new devices alike. I never like calling anything future-proof, but the fact that only cutting-edge clients can come close to accessing its full performance is telling. It will be a very long time before it feels slow.

You have weak Wi-Fi in some areas
Some premium routers do a great job of distributing a strong signal across a large area. But there are plenty of larger buildings that have dead spots due to size or thick walls. If that’s the case, the BT10 will likely help you out, and you can still add additional nodes via Asus’ AiMesh technology.

You hate subscriptions
It’s been disappointing to see that some premium-brand routers now come with core features that you have to pay even more for. In some cases, that means paying for both parental controls and security software, separately. Asus deserves credit for keeping it all free.

Don't buy it if…

You want to save money
The BT10, like many premium Wi-Fi 7 kits, is incredibly expensive. While it’s nice to have a future-proof setup, you can still buy last-gen Wi-Fi 6 and 6E models, with similar features for substantially less. You can also add cheap nodes using old and cheap Asus routers that are AiMesh compatible.

You live in Australia
Australians appear to be the victims of price gouging when it comes to premium Wi-Fi 7 networking devices. The price here is anomalously high compared to other regions, even with the usual tax and shipping issues.

You only want basic features
Some people just want to access the internet without much fuss. If that’s the case, then the BT10 is overpowered, over-featured and overpriced for your requirements. You can save a massive amount of money on a lesser device that will still fulfill your needs.

Also consider

If you're undecided about investing in the Asus ZenWiFi BT10 router, I've compared its specs with three alternatives that might suit you better.

Netgear Nighthawk RS700S
The elder sibling of the RS300 is twice as expensive, but it provides Wi-Fi 7 with an even faster speed of 19 Gbps, and has 10G Ethernet, so is great for high-speed broadband connections.

Read our full Nighthawk RS700S review

Asus ROG Rapture GT-BE98
This giant robot spider is the ZenWiFi BT10’s big, gamer-oriented brother. If you can get past the looks, it features similar features and performance in one, less-expensive package.

Read our full Asus ROG Rapture GT-BE98 review

TP-Link Deco BE63
It’s more mature in the market and the price has dropped even more. You also get three nodes to spread the signal even further. It’s a great-value Wi-Fi 7 mesh kit.

Read our full TP-Link Deco BE63 review

How I tested the Asus ZenWiFi BT10

  • I tested it in typical home use
  • I tested it at short, medium and long range
  • I tested both the wired and wireless connections

We pride ourselves on our independence and our rigorous review-testing process, offering up long-term attention to the products we review and making sure our reviews are updated and maintained - regardless of when a device was released, if you can still buy it, it's on our radar.

Read more about how we test

  • First reviewed in February 2025
I tested the Lenovo IdeaPad Slim 3 15IRU9 and found a no-frills laptop at a decent price
7:10 pm | February 12, 2025
Author: admin | Category: Computers Computing Gadgets Laptops Windows Laptops | Comments: Off

Lenovo IdeaPad Slim 3 15IRU9: Two-minute review

Lenovo IdeaPad Slim 3 15IRU9 angled with coffee

(Image credit: Future / James Holland)

You’re not going to be wowed by the Lenovo IdeaPad Slim 3. But, if you’re looking for a laptop that’s “good enough,” a phrase you’ll see me use throughout this review, then you might be a fan of this laptop, especially considering that you can get it for fairly cheap.

In fact, its portability, decent enough performance, and pleasant aesthetics, particularly the Abyss Blue colorway, make it a contender for the best budget laptops out there right now. Considering that this is a slightly older model, you most likely will find it at a discount.

Being a more budget-oriented product does mean that it comes with a whole heap of compromises, from a mostly plastic built to shorter battery life and subpar audio quality. But, if you’re looking for one of the best laptops overall, you’ll probably need to spend a little more to get it.

The Lenovo IdeaPad Slim 3 is purely for those people who just need a laptop and want something that’s new, portable, and comes with Windows.

Lenovo IdeaPad Slim 3 15IRU9: Price and availability

Lenovo IdeaPad Slim 3 15IRU9 angled

(Image credit: Future / James Holland)
  • How much does it cost? Starting at $539.99 / £510 / AU$1,149.00
  • When is it available? Available now
  • Where can you get it? Available in the US, UK, and Australia

The 15-inch version of the Lenovo IdeaPad Slim 3 is available in the US, UK, and Australia, but, like most things Lenovo, is available in slightly different configurations per territory. For instance, the cheapest version of this laptop, which goes for $539.99 / £510 / AU$1,149.00, is available in the US, whereas the more powerful versions are available in the other territories.

While the highest configuration’s price tag is a bit exorbitant, especially since it’s mostly for more storage, the cheapest configurations make it a good idea for those looking to just get a laptop that’s thin, light, and doesn’t look cheap.

There are other options out there, such as the Acer Aspire 5, that offers a little more in terms of performance and battery life, but is a bit more limited when it comes to ports. It’s also almost half a pound heavier than the IdeaPad Slim 3.

  • Value: 4.5 / 5

Lenovo IdeaPad Slim 3 15IRU9: Specs

The Lenovo IdeaPad Slim 3 15IRU9 may be a more budget-oriented model but it still comes with some customizations. For starters, you can choose between three CPUs: the Intel Core 3 100U, Intel Core 5 120U, and the Intel Core 7 150U. The more powerful the processor the snappier the response will be for browsing and day-to-day tasks. There’s also a choice between 8 and 16GB of RAM, though you can only get 8GB with the Intel Core 3 and 16GB with the Intel Core 7 CPU. Lastly, you can choose an SSD ranging from 256GB (there is the ability to just do a 128GB flash drive in the UK) to 1TB of space.

There is some light customization available outside of the internal components as well. You can upgrade from a non-touch to a touch screen. And you can choose whether to pay extra for a fingerprint reader. There’s also a color choice between Abyss Blue (reviewed here) and gray.

Lenovo IdeaPad Slim 3 15IRU9: Design

Lenovo IdeaPad Slim 3 15IRU9 keyboard and touchpad

(Image credit: Future / James Holland)
  • Is thin, light, and looks nice, though it’s not the most premium build
  • Keyboard and touchpad are fine
  • Has some appreciated security features like a webcam privacy shutter

Available in either Abyss Blue or gray, the Lenovo IdeaPad Slim 3 offers up that distinctive Ultrabook aesthetic. It’s thin, light, and, from afar, looks like a MacBook competitor. Of course, upon closer look, its mid-range bones are more apparent, like the fact that its chassis is made out of plastic.

However, it’s a nice option for people who just need a computer and don’t care about getting something expensive or top-of-the-line. It comes with a decently-sized 15.6-inch display that, at 1080p, is good enough for most people. Plus, that display on upgraded models such as the one reviewed is a responsive touchscreen.

The keyboard falls into the “good enough” camp, as it does the job but isn't particularly special. The keys are a bit stiff to the touch, so may not be a favorite of those typing out long essays. And there’s no backlighting either. At least there’s a numpad. The touchpad is equally fine; it’s accurate and responsive, but isn’t the smoothest to the touch.

Image 1 of 2

Lenovo IdeaPad Slim 3 15IRU9 left ports

(Image credit: Future / James Holland)
Image 2 of 2

Lenovo IdeaPad Slim 3 15IRU9 right ports

(Image credit: Future / James Holland)

Port-wise, you do get a nice assortment such as there’s an HDMI and SD card reader port, both of which you don’t always get in this caliber of computer. Of course, there’s the typical USB-C and USB-A ports as well as a headphone jack.

Lastly, there are some security features on hand that I do appreciate. Namely, there’s a fingerprint reader on the power button and privacy shutter on the webcam.

  • Design: 4 / 5

Lenovo IdeaPad Slim 3 15IRU9: Performance

Lenovo IdeaPad Slim 3 15IRU9 closed

(Image credit: Future / James Holland)
  • Good enough performance for day-to-day work
  • Webcam is sufficient but limited
  • Audio is underwhelming

When it comes to performance, the bar is somewhat low for the Lenovo IdeaPad Slim 3 in that it doesn’t need to power demanding programs like games or editing software (if you’re looking for that kind of power, there are plenty of other laptops to consider as this is not one). What it needs to do and does well enough is handle day-to-day tasks such as browsing, streaming, emails, word processing, and the like. And it does those just fine. This laptop is meant for people who “just need a computer” at an affordable price.

Lenovo IdeaPad Slim 3 15IRU9: Benchmarks

3DMark: Fire Strike: 4113; Time Spy: 1501; Night Raid: 14442

GeekBench 6.3 2469 (single-core); 8549 (multi-core)

Handbrake 1.8: 14:33

CrossMark: Overall: 1445 Productivity: 1459 Creativity: 1504 Responsiveness: 1308

Web Surfing (Battery Informant): 6:14:04

During use, I was able to use it normally with 15 tabs open in a browser, including some streaming, without much of a slowdown other than a split second refresh when switching tabs. The cheapest configuration, with its 6-core Intel Core 3 100U CPU and 8GB of RAM, will probably start to slow after just a couple years as it already has somewhat weak internals. The review configuration, however, has a 10-core CPU and 16GB of RAM, so should offer an additional year of use, in my opinion, before starting to feel slow.

Since this fits into that category of devices that look like an Ultrabook, but are more of a budget laptop, there are some compromises elsewhere. The webcam, for instance, is good enough but at 720p @ 30 fps, is not the sharpest or smoothest. Plus, it does have a little grain to the image in low light settings.

More egregiously, the audio is underwhelming. While this is somewhat typical for budget and mid-range laptops, it’s worth pointing out. There’s not much in the way of bass or high-end, leaving you with a boxy, mid-range quality, like hearing something through a phone. Considering how many people simply stream stuff onto their laptops these days, it’s surprising that this isn’t better.

Lastly, it should be mentioned that, like most budget laptops, this comes with some bloatware.

  • Performance: 4 / 5

Lenovo IdeaPad Slim 3 15IRU9: Battery life

  • Decent but not great battery life
  • Has fast charging on hand

With a benchmark of six hours and almost 15 minutes, the Lenovo IdeaPad Slim 3 is not going to win any awards. That length of time is good enough if you need to do a little work on the road, but not enough to get through a full work day without a charge. And it’s pretty low compared to what a lot of thin and light laptops, particularly Ultrabooks (that happen to be a little pricier on the whole), are able to achieve. The only laptops that this really beats out are gaming laptops that have to also supply power to dedicated graphics cards and older models that you probably wouldn’t compare this to in the first place.

On the bright side, there is fast charging on hand so that you can quickly get some extra juice with a short trip to an outlet. I was able to charge back up from 55% after about 40 minutes. So, if you want to go untethered to work while in front of the TV, you have enough battery life on hand and get a quick charge for more while taking a quick break.

  • Battery life: 3.5 / 5

Should I buy the Lenovo IdeaPad Slim 3 15IRU9?

 Buy it if…

You just want a computer

I’m not trying to be facetious. Some people want the Honda Civic equivalent of a laptop that looks good enough and does its job. The Lenovo IdeaPad Slim 3 fits that bill.

You want the portability of an Ultrabook without the price or small screen

This laptop offers the kind of portability most people want in a laptop without breaking the bank or limiting screen size.

You’re laptop hunting on a budget

If you’re worried about cash and don’t have any niche needs, you’ll find this laptop to be more than enough for the price.

Don't buy it if...

You want an Ultrabook

Considering that this is a solidly budget product masquerading as a premium one, you might be underwhelmed if you’re expecting an Ultrabook. It might be worth spending the difference for a MacBook Air.

You need long battery life

The battery life for this type of laptop is not what one would expect. It’s just good enough, but won’t make it through an entire day of work on a single charge.

Also Consider

If our Lenovo IdeaPad Slim 3 15IRU9 review has you considering other options, here are two laptops to consider...

Acer Aspire 5

If you’re willing to deal with a little more weight and a poorer port selection, not to mention skip the attractive Abyss Blue colorway, then the Acer Aspire 5 offers more in terms of performance and battery life than the IdeaPad Slim 3 does.

Read our full Acer Aspire 5 review

Apple MacBook Air 13-inch (M3)

If you actually want an Ultrabook, particularly something that still packs a punch in terms of performance and battery life, you’re better off paying a little more and getting the Apple MacBook Air 13-inch (M3). It also provides an intuitive user experience the way most Apple products do. Of course, its base configuration comes with just 8GB of RAM and a 256GB SSD, and upgrading either adds quite a bit to the price tag.

Read our full Apple MacBook Air 13-inch (M3) review

How I tested the Lenovo IdeaPad Slim 3 15IRU9

  • Tested for a couple weeks
  • Used it for work, gaming, and streaming
  • Tested its webcam and audio

I used the Lenovo IdeaPad Slim 3 15IRU9 for a couple weeks, doing some light gaming, watching some online content, and working on it. I also used it on the go and tested its various features like the webcam and audio.

The Lenovo IdeaPad Slim 3 15IRU9 is one of those laptops meant for people who don’t need crazy powerful computers, but instead just need a decent sized screen, good portability, and enough power for normal day-to-day work without costing too much money.

I’ve spent the last few years reviewing tech gear for gaming and otherwise, where I’ve gotten a feel for what to look for and how to put a piece of kit through its paces to see whether it’s worth the recommendation.

  • First reviewed December 2024
I took over 500Hz of gaming speed for a spin with the AOC Agon Pro AG276FK
12:00 am |
Author: admin | Category: Computers Computing Gadgets Monitors Peripherals & Accessories | Tags: | Comments: Off

AOC Agon Pro AG276FK: Two-minute review

AOC Agon Pro AG276FK gaming monitor's base and logo

(Image credit: Future / Jeremy Laird)

If you're serious about competitive gaming, you want the highest refresh rate possible. It's pretty much that simple. Which is where the new AOC Agon Pro AG276FK comes in. Running at 520Hz, it's up there among the very fastest gaming monitors you can currently buy.

If there's a catch, it's that the native resolution is just 1080p. Purely for playing online shooters, that actually makes sense in terms of minimizing GPU load and maximizing frame rates. However, for other types of gaming and especially for all-rounding computing, the low pixel density of 1080p on a fairly large 27-inch monitor like this isn't ideal.

Needless to say, that lofty refresh rate makes for a very pricey panel for a mere 1080p model, too. So, the question the AOC Agon Pro AG276FK poses is just how dedicated to the cause of esports you really are. This monitor is never going to be a great all-rounder.

But if high refresh rates and low latency are your absolute priorities, this monitor looks like a strong package on paper. It sports an IPS panel with 0.5ms GTG response, HDR400 certification and dual DisplayPort inputs, plus a whole host of gaming-centric additional features.

AOC Agon Pro AG276FK: Price and availability

  • How much does it cost? $550 (estimated) / £499 / AU$999 (estimated)
  • When is it available? Available now
  • Where can you get it? Available in the UK with other markets to follow

At £499 in the UK and a likely $550 in the US, the AOC Agon Pro AG276FK lines up right next to the likes of the ASRock Phantom Gaming PG27FFX2A. That monitor actually has superior HDMI 2.1 connectivity, but is otherwise very similar on paper.

Of course, this is a heck of a lot of money for a mere 1080p 27-inch monitor. But then the 520Hz refresh rate is an extreme specification and comes at a cost. For most gamers, we'd recommend a high-refresh 27-inch 1440p panel as better not just for all-round computing but also for a broad range of gaming.

However, if you're into esports and you want the very lowest latency thanks to super high refresh rates, well, the 520Hz offered here really delivers.

AOC Agon Pro AG276FK: Specs

AOC Agon Pro AG276FK: Design and features

AOC Agon Pro AG276FK gaming monitor tilted slightly to the side, showing the Windows desktop screen

(Image credit: Future / Jeremy Laird)

As 1080p 27-inch monitors go, the AOC Agon Pro AG276FK is not exactly cheap. Mostly, that's thanks to the eye-watering 520Hz refresh rate. But it does have other attractions.

The 27-inch panel is an IPS item with claimed 0.5ms GTG and 0.3ms MPRT pixel response. In the context of LCD as opposed to OLED monitors, those are very impressive numbers. You also get HDR400 certification, which won't guarantee true HDR capability, but does mean this monitor will hit a punchy 400 nits.

The relatively elevated pricing also translates into a high quality stand with a full range of adjustment including height, tilt, pivot and swivel. It's well built, the materials feel high quality and the design includes some quirky asymmetric features that make this monitor stand out ever so slightly from the crowd. The slim bezels on three sides of the 27-inch IPS panel also ensure it looks current and up-to-date.

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Back of the AOC Agon Pro AG276FK gaming monitor, showing RGB lighting and adjustable stand

(Image credit: Future / Jeremy Laird)
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Side profile of the AOC Agon Pro AG276FK gaming monitor

(Image credit: Future / Jeremy Laird)
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Connection options on the bottom of the AOC Agon Pro AG276FK gaming monitor

(Image credit: Future / Jeremy Laird)

As for connectivity, you get two DisplayPort 1.4 connections capable of the full 520Hz. The two HDMI 2.0 sockets only go to 240Hz, but then they're aimed at console connectivity, and that really only requires 120Hz at most. The ports are all located on the bottom of the chassis, while a slide-out headphone hanger is situated on the right-hand bezel.

Beyond all that, there's a smattering of RGB lighting, plus various gamer-centric options in the comprehensive OSD menu including overdrive controls, low latency modes, and adaptive sync, plus AOC's GMENU app that enables access to much of the functionality within Windows.

AOC Agon Pro AG276FK: Performance

AOC Agon Pro AG276FK gaming monitor showing Cyberpunk 2077 on screen while resting on a desk

(Image credit: Future / Jeremy Laird)

If speed is what the AOC Agon Pro AG276FK is all about, it definitely delivers. Undoubtedly the highlight is that 520Hz refresh. Many games have performance bottlenecks on the CPU, GPU or somewhere else in the system preventing them from hitting those kinds of frame rates.

The exception, of course, tends to be online shooters, which are optimized for maximum frames rates and are indeed the main target for this monitor. Up around 500fps, then, this monitor absolutely flies. Obviously the gains are marginal as you increase refresh rates. But you can certainly feel the reduction in latency and see the increase in motion clarity compared to, say, a 144Hz panel.

Put it next to a 360Hz monitor, and the gains will inevitably be more marginal. Ultimately, the extent to which you notice and benefit from 520Hz will always be subjective. But if ultra-low latency is something you think you're particularly sensitive to, well, this AOC gets the job done and then some.

It's also very fast for an LCD panel when it comes to pixel response. You can choose between the four levels of pixel overdrive in the OSD menu. A touch of overshoot can be detected in the fastest mode when jiggling an app window around on the Windows desktop. But actually in-game, there's little evidence of the kind of color shift that can be so distracting when monitors suffer from really bad overshoot.

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On-screen display of the AOC Agon Pro AG276FK gaming monitor

(Image credit: Future / Jeremy Laird)
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On-screen display of the AOC Agon Pro AG276FK gaming monitor

(Image credit: Future / Jeremy Laird)
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On-screen display of the AOC Agon Pro AG276FK gaming monitor

(Image credit: Future / Jeremy Laird)

Anyway, this monitor is about as LCD tech currently gets when it comes to pixel response. You'll need to make the jump to an OLED panel to get something clearly faster.

Another strong point, relatively speaking, is the calibration. It's all really nicely set up in SDR mode, with punchy and accurate colors. In HDR mode, it's nicely executed, too, and that includes accurate SDR colors in HDR. That's handy because it means you can just leave this panel in HDR mode all the time and get great colors and accuracy for all content types.

Of course, this isn't a true HDR monitor. It has HDR400 calibration, but there's no local dimming. So, it's a case of correctly rendering HDR color mapping as opposed to really being capable of high dynamic range images. But that's par for the course for this class of display.

If all that sounds good, the major downside involves pixel density. 1080p stretched across a 27-inch panel like this makes for a lowly density of just 82DPI. That translates into blocky image quality and rough looking fonts on the desktop. For general computing, web browsing or content creation, this is not a great display. But that is not its remit.

Arguably the bigger problem is the slight lack of image detail in-game versus, say, a 270-inch 1440p panel. For gaming across a wide range of genres, a 240Hz 1440p panel can actually be had for less money and would be a better fit. But as a pure esports panel, this AOC delivers, you just have to be sure that's exactly what you're after.

Should I buy the AOC Agon Pro AG276FK?

Buy it if...

You want ultra low latency

The 520Hz refresh makes for seriously low latency while the IPS panel also delivers excellent response times for an LCD panel. Only an OLED monitor will be quicker.

You like good color calibration

The AOC Agon Pro AG276FK isn't just fast. It's also very nicely calibrated with good color balance in both SDR and HDR modes

Don't buy it if...

You're an all-round gamer

If you like playing all kinds of games, not just online shooter, you'd be better off with a 1440p panel or maybe a 34-inch ultrawide, both of which can be had for the same money or less.

You want true HDR capability

The AOC Agon Pro AG276FK offers HD400 certification. But it doesn't have local dimming and it's not truly capable of high dynamic range rendering.

Also consider

Gigabyte Aorus FO32U2P

If you want to join the high-refresh OLED revolution, give the Gigabyte Aorus FO32U2P a try. It's a 4K 240Hz model, so not quite as high refresh. But the pixel response is ultra low and the 4K OLED image quality is to die for.

Read our full Gigabyte Aorus FO32U2P review

Samsung Odyssey G7

If you fancy 1440p gaming, consider the Samsung Odyssey G7. It's the same 27-inch size, but offers 1440p at 240Hz for a reasonable price, albeit more than the AOC Gaming C27G4ZXE.

Read our full Samsung Odyssey G7 review

How I tested the AOC Agon Pro AG276FK

I used the AOC Agon Pro AG276FK for literally everything for around a week. For sure, it's a monitor aimed squarely at esports as opposed to getting work stuff done or browsing the web. But full immersion tends to provide fuller insights.

The core task was to assess the impact of that lofty 520Hz frame rates in a slew of online shooters, including my favorite Counter-Strike 2. Would the huge Hz number translate into noticeably lower latency?

Comparing the pixel response to the best IPS panels and also the latest OLED screens is also intriguing. Beyond that, checking out the overall color performance and HDR calibration, along with connectivity, ergonomics and build are all in the mix.

First reviewed February 2025

I tried the Lenovo ThinkBook Plus Gen 5 Hybrid and found it very unique – and very expensive
9:59 pm | February 11, 2025
Author: admin | Category: Computers Computing Gadgets Laptops Windows Laptops | Tags: | Comments: Off

Lenovo ThinkBook Plus Gen 5 Hybrid: Two-minute review

Lenovo ThinkBook Plus Gen 5 Hybrid separate

(Image credit: Future / James Holland)

I don’t know that I’ve ever been as confused by a laptop as I have by the Lenovo ThinkBook Plus Gen 5 Hybrid. It takes the 2-in-1 concept to a whole new level – one that not many have probably asked for. It’s a powerful laptop, by Ultrabook standards, with a screen that can be pulled off and used as a tablet. To make things even more interesting (see also: confusing), you can press a button to use the Android OS without removing the tablet, essentially interacting with the Android tablet portion as if it was an Android laptop. AND, there’s a few hybrid functions that work across both devices in a way that a separately purchased laptop and tablet just couldn’t.

Confused yet? Hopefully, you won’t be by the end of this review. But, to be fair, while the Lenovo ThinkBook Plus Gen 5 has the bona fides to compare favorably to both the best 2-in-1 laptops and the best Android tablets, it’s not a product that’s right for everyone.

Its unique form factor is most ideal for those that like working specifically in the Windows and Android ecosystems. So, if your tablet needs are met by something made by Apple, this is not going to be for you unless you want to transition over to Android.

That said, it’s a cool concept for those that work in both those operating systems. And, as long as Lenovo keeps the price “discounted,” it’s worth it. Even if it’s not perfectly implemented – there’s no headphone jack on the tablet (the ports are somewhat sparse in general) and the mechanism to dock the tablet back on the hybrid base station is a bit tricky. It’s unique, as both the Windows and Android portions of the Lenovo ThinkBook Plus Gen 5 Hybrid equation are powerful, and it has a vibrant, sharp 14-inch screen. Plus, it comes with a stylus and it’s kind of cool to type something up (say, maybe this article) on the hybrid station with a monitor while keeping YouTube open for some distraction and procrastination on the tablet.

Confused still?

Lenovo ThinkBook Plus Gen 5 Hybrid: Price and availability

Lenovo ThinkBook Plus Gen 5 Hybrid using both devices separately

(Image credit: Future / James Holland)
  • How much does it cost? Starting at $2,040.44 / £1,399.99 (about AU$2,710.00)
  • When is it available? Available now
  • Where can you get it? Available in the US and UK

Considering how unusual the Lenovo ThinkBook Plus Gen 5 Hybrid is and the fact that it not only offers two separate devices that can be used together or separately but two different operating systems, its listed price of $2,040.44 / £1,399.99 is not that bad. It’s what Lenovo advertised when we first covered this device.

What’s so frustrating is that, for a time, especially when I first looked at the Lenovo ThinkBook Plus gen 5 Hybrid, it was listed at a much higher price, specifically $3,518.00 / £2,199.98 (about AU$4,260). Those prices are still listed as the “estimated value,” which is, frankly, insane.

First, you can get a quality Android tablet and computer for that original $2,000 price. Second, the fact that it’s shown as a discounted price means that Lenovo could potentially remove the discount from time to time to sell at the higher price tag.

Now, at the current, “discounted” price, it’s still plenty pricey, but it’s not a hard sell. If you were to get a Samsung Galaxy Tab S9 Plus with 12GB of RAM and 256GB of storage – the same as the one that the Lenovo ThinkBook Plus Gen 5 Hybrid comes with – you would spend $1199.99, not to mention you would have a smaller 12.4-inch screen. Of course, bigger isn’t always better with tablets as too big can be unwieldy.

Getting something equivalent to the Windows side of the Lenovo in a laptop with an Intel Core Ultra 7 CPU, 32GB of RAM, and an 1TB SSD, not to mention that the screen (which is also the tablet) is an OLED panel with a 2.8K resolution, is going to cost at least $1,000 if not more.

Assuming that Lenovo really keeps the price at around its current discounted price, it’s worth it if you rely on Android tablets and Windows PCs and want something capable on both fronts for work.

It’s worth noting that it also comes with the Lenovo Tab Pen Plus and an easel stand for the tablet. Unfortunately, it’s not currently available in Australia.

  • Value: 4 / 5

Lenovo ThinkBook Plus Gen 5 Hybrid: Specs

The Lenovo ThinkBook Plus Gen 5 Hybrid only comes in one configuration. The base, which houses the Windows-related components, comes with a powerful Intel Core Ultra 7 155H CPU and Intel Arc integrated graphics. While there are no RAM and SSD customizations, at least Lenovo offers up a good amount with 32GB and 1TB, respectively.

The tablet is also suitably souped up with a Qualcomm Snapdragon 8+ mobile CPU, 12GB of RAM, and 256GB of storage. That’s on par with the most powerful Android tablets on the market right now.

Likewise, there are no customizations on the exterior either. At least you get a sharp 14-inch OLED panel with a 2.8K (2880 x 1800) resolution and 100% DCI-P3 color coverage, though at 60Hz. It’s also available just in the one standard aluminum gray that most sleek laptops come in.

Lenovo ThinkBook Plus Gen 5 Hybrid: Design

  • Limited ports including no headphone jack on tablet
  • Screen can be removed to use separately as a tablet, while base still works as a Windows machine
  • Comes with an accurate and sensitive stylus

When the Lenovo ThinkBook Plus Gen 5 Hybrid is in its standard laptop mode with the screen attached, it’s surprisingly normal looking. In fact, it’s a bit thick when closed as the hybrid station is a little over a third of an inch thick and the screen is just under a third. It almost looks a little dated if you’re not looking closely.

If you do look closely however, you’ll start to see the differences. For one, the keyboard has its own button to switch between Windows and Android operating systems – something you won’t find anywhere else. In fact, there’s a whole hybrid system that I’ll discuss in performance.

Lenovo ThinkBook Plus Gen 5 Hybrid hybrid station

(Image credit: Future / James Holland)

You’ll see the large vents on the sides of the hybrid station as well as the single USB-C Thunderbolt 4 ports on each side, not to mention a mic/headphone jack on the left side. The tablet itself just has a USB-C port that’s hidden when attached to the hybrid station – there’s unfortunately no headphone jack on it, even if you can connect a pair via Bluetooth.

You’ll probably notice, like I did, that the display is quite stiff. It’s so stiff, in fact, that I thought I was going to break it the first time I tried to close it (I didn’t). This is in stark contrast to many 2-in-1 laptops, where the hinge is a little too loose so the screen sometimes sags, all in the name of making it easy to fold into one of the other modes.

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Lenovo ThinkBook Plus Gen 5 Hybrid left ports

(Image credit: Future / James Holland)
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Lenovo ThinkBook Plus Gen 5 Hybrid right ports

(Image credit: Future / James Holland)
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Lenovo ThinkBook Plus Gen 5 Hybrid tablet port

(Image credit: Future / James Holland)

Where it really sets itself apart is when you pull the display off the base. When removed, the hybrid station can still be used as a Windows machine – you just need to plug it into a monitor via one of the USB-C ports.

The keyboard is fine enough to use and the trackpad is accurate enough that no matter how you’re using this computer, you won’t feel the need to grab an external anything. I won’t say that they’re the best I’ve used on a laptop, but they do the job and don't seem to have any noticeable shortcomings.

The tablet itself is a bit bulky as you’re still holding what’s basically a 14-inch screen, though it is a sharp one with a 2.8k resolution and a 100% DCI-P3. That’s good enough for some editing work. Plus, as a touch-screen, it’s very accurate.

Besides its large size, which can be a boon for some and cumbersome for others, the only other issue is the fact that it has just one USB-C port and no input jack for headphones, even if you can connect to it via Bluetooth. At least it has four 1-watt speakers (the hybrid station has an additional two 2-watt ones for a total of six speakers in regular laptop mode).

This package does come with an easel stand and stylus to make it a bit easier to use. A quick note on the stylus, which is the Lenovo Tab Pen Plus. It’s very accurate as well as sensitive, since it has “4,096 levels of pressure and tilt detection,” not to mention the fact that it has very palm rejection. Lastly, the stylus can magnetically clip onto the back or side of this device.

  • Design: 4 / 5

Lenovo ThinkBook Plus Gen 5 Hybrid: Performance

  • Both devices are powerful in their own right
  • Cross-integration between devices is unique
  • Can be used as an Android laptop

Whether you use it as a laptop, tablet, or some kind of in-between cross-pollinated system, the Lenovo ThinkBook Plus Gen 5 Hybrid is fairly powerful.

The hybrid station houses all the internal components related to the Windows portion of the experience, with an Intel Core Ultra 155H CPU, 32GB of RAM and 1 TB of solid state storage. Some discrete graphics would have taken this even further, but as it is, it can handle everything this side of video games and video editing. I was able to open 15 tabs, including four streaming videos on YouTube, without any slowdown in loading or even switching between tabs. I was even able to do some light gaming, but nothing all that taxing. It is powerful enough to do some photo editing.

Lenovo ThinkBook Plus Gen 5 Hybrid: Benchmarks

3DMark: Fire Strike: 7798; Time Spy: NA; Port Royal: 1584

GeekBench 6.3 1702 (single-core); 10693 (multi-core)

PCMark10: 6826

Handbrake 1.8.1: 3:52

CrossMark: Overall: 1629 Productivity: 1559 Creativity: 1822 Responsiveness: 1328

PC Mark 10 Battery Test (Office): 9:55

PC Mark 10 Battery Test (Video): 5:43

The tablet with its Qualcomm Snapdragon 8+ mobile CPU, 12GB RAM, and 256 SSD of storage is pretty powerful for an Android tablet. It has no problem playing demanding games like Real Racing. Opening a bunch of tabs in Chrome (I stopped at ten) is speedy. Really, it can handle anything you could ask of an Android tablet. It even has a 1080p front-facing and 13MP back-facing camera. The front facing camera can be used with Windows for video conferencing and the like. It also has a physical shutter – always a nice touch.

Being able to use the hybrid base station and Android tablet as two devices is pretty cool, but what truly elevates the Lenovo ThinkBook Plus Gen 5 Hybrid past just owning a Windows and Android device purchased separately – beyond the fact that they combine like a Transformer – is how the two devices still integrate on a software level.

The main way that they interact is through the Hybrid Folder that they share. You can put files of all sorts in there and they will sync to the other device, whether they’re physically attached or not.

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Lenovo ThinkBook Plus Gen 5 Hybrid app hybrid stream

(Image credit: Future / James Holland)
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Lenovo ThinkBook Plus Gen 5 Hybrid app shared folder

(Image credit: Future / James Holland)
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Lenovo ThinkBook Plus Gen 5 Hybrid

(Image credit: Future / James Holland)

There’s also Hybrid Stream, which requires the tablet to be used as the only monitor, that lets you open a window to interact with the Android OS, while still using the Windows OS. It does run at a very slight delay, but is a cool way to access some Android-specific features without having to grab a second monitor to keep toiling away in the land of Bill Gates and Paul Allen.

Freestyle is an app that takes this cross-platform integration in a different direction, allowing you to mirror or extend your display, if you’re using an external one, to the tablet, basically turning into a second monitor. It’s pretty cool, though extending the display is a bit laggy. The app also allows you to share files directly between the two devices if you don't want to go the Hybrid folder route, as well as stream apps from one device to the other. Of course, the screen mirroring and extension is probably the most important functionality with this app.

Another way to use the Lenovo ThinkBook Plus Gen 5 Hybrid is by pressing the Insert button, which also functions as a way to switch between the two operating systems without pulling out the screen, meaning that you can essentially use this device as an Android laptop. And it works fairly seamlessly for navigating as long as you’re not launching apps that need you to hold the tablet in your hand, such as a video game where you’re tilting the screen.

As mentioned before, there are a lot of speakers built into this device so that the hybrid station and the tablet can both emit sound. On their own, they do the job but are fairly thin. When used as a laptop, the Lenovo will use all six speakers. It’s not an audiophile experience by any means, but it’s much louder and fuller than you generally get with laptops. There’s still a small amount of hollowness, probably due to the fact that all the speakers are pretty small.

  • Performance: 4.5 / 5

Lenovo ThinkBook Plus Gen 5 Hybrid: Battery life

  • Up to ten hours of battery life in hybrid station
  • Tablet has about eight hours of battery life

The battery life on the Lenovo ThinkBook Plus Gen 5 Hybrid is not going to wow anyone. But considering the unique form factor on display here, getting ten hours of use is pretty good, not to mention that the tablet itself can go eight. That said, it only got about ten hours in the PC Mark10 Office Battery test. In the PC Mark 10 Battery Test focusing on video, the results were five hours and 43 minutes. Depending on how you use it, you might not get a full day’s worth of battery without charging back up.

Since it can be charged via USB-C, it can charge back up relatively quickly. It’s worth noting that the tablet will keep itself charged up when docked to the hybrid station.

  • Battery life: 4 / 5

Should I buy the Lenovo ThinkBook Plus Gen 5 Hybrid?

 Buy it if…

You use both Windows and Android devices

This was tailor-made for those that use Windows laptops and Android tablets. While that might not be a lot of people, the execution here is good enough that it’s worth considering.

You want something different

Even if your computing life doesn’t revolve around Android and Windows, if you’re looking for a different computing experience, this is about as unique as it gets.

You want a sharp, vibrant display

The OLED touchscreen here, even without considering the fact that it’s a tablet, looks very good and is certainly a pro for the Lenovo ThinkBook Plus Gen 5 Hybrid.

Don't buy it if...

You’re on any kind of a budget

At its lowest price, it might be cheaper than getting a top-of-the-line Ultrabook and Android tablet, but it’s still out of reach for many. When it’s not discounted, it’s not worth it to anyone.

You don’t use Android

If you’re not big into tablets or use iPads, this product is not worth it. If you’re looking for something unique, you’re better off considering the dual-screen Lenovo Yoga Book 9i.

Also Consider

If our Lenovo ThinkBook Plus Gen 5 Hybrid review has you considering other options, here are two laptops to consider...

Lenovo Yoga Book 9i

If you want a different computing experience, but don’t care about the tablet portion of the device reviewed here, consider the Lenovo Yoga Book 9i instead. It’s a similar price, but comes with two OLED panels that can be used in portrait or landscape mode, giving you the ability to double your screen real estate in laptop form.

Read our full Lenovo Yoga Book 9i review

Apple MacBook Air 13-inch (M3)

Sometimes a more classic form factor is the right way to go. The Apple MacBook Air 13-inch (M3) has excellent performance with a long battery life, is a great looking laptop that’s incredibly lightweight, and doesn’t come with a learning curve to make the most of it.

Read our full Apple MacBook Air 13-inch (M3) review

How I tested the Lenovo ThinkBook Plus Gen 5 Hybrid

  • Tested for four weeks
  • Used it for work, gaming, and streaming
  • Tested the hybrid features

I used the Lenovo ThinkBook Plus Gen 5 Hybrid for four weeks, doing some light gaming, watching some online content, and working on it. I used it in its various forms, whether as a laptop, tablet, Android laptop, or attached to an external monitor. I spent some time with its features as well, most notably the hybrid ones that are unique to this device.

The Lenovo ThinkBook Plus Gen 5 Hybrid is an interesting machine as it’s for a very select group of people who use Windows laptops and Android tablets and are looking for a way to invest in one machine that can cover both needs.

I’ve spent the last few years reviewing tech gear for gaming and otherwise, where I’ve gotten a feel for what to look for and how to put a piece of kit through its paces to see whether it’s worth the recommendation.

  • First reviewed February 2025

For more Lenovo devices, we've reviewed and rounded up the best Lenovo ThinkPad laptops.

I love the feel of the Logitech POP Mouse, but it does miss out on a few features
1:00 am | February 9, 2025
Author: admin | Category: Computers Computing Gadgets Mice Peripherals & Accessories | Comments: Off

Logitech POP Mouse: Two-minute review

The Logitech POP Mouse is a small and simple wireless mouse for productivity and general browsing, with its versatile Bluetooth connectivity and customization options pitched at modern workers.

It sports a stylish design courtesy of its pebble-like shape, front slope and one-piece unit for the mouse buttons. This is extended further by the multiple colorways, which utilize a soft, light palette, with some two-tone schemes thrown in for good measure.

Although it’s quite small and thin compared to the best mouse options around, the POP Mouse fitted my hand and fingers well. The body is thick enough to get a good grip, and the rear weight bias means it’s easy to tilt backwards for lift-offs between swipes. The completely symmetrical design also makes it suitable for left and right handers alike.

There’s a distinct lack of buttons on the POP Mouse, with the only topside additions being a scroll wheel and a button below it. Underneath you’ll find the power slider and the Easy Switching button used for pairing and toggling between three different Bluetooth devices.

The aforementioned one-piece unit for the mouse buttons also doubles as the battery compartment cover. It’s attached magnetically to the mouse’s body, and the robust plastic achieves the ideal balance between easy removal and secure fastening.

Close-up of Logitech POP on plinth with pink background

(Image credit: Future)

Even better, though, are the switches for mouse buttons. They’re very tactile and heavily damped, so much so that they barely make a sound in use. This makes for a satisfyingly padded sensation, and more pleasurable to use than I was expecting for a mouse of this kind. Those who prefer the loud, sharp clicks of traditional switches may not find the POP Mouse provides enough feel or feedback, but personally, I enjoyed using them for general and productivity purposes.

The scroll wheel is also damped nicely, as well as being lightly notched. When you flick quickly, it enters into a free-wheeling state to some degree, which is a handy feature; I only wish this triggered more readily, as it didn’t make navigating long documents and web pages as easy as I was hoping.

However, it does feel well-made and the rubber material on top is smooth to the touch. The scroll click is secure and tactile as well, while the button below – which opens an Emoji menu by default – is more snappy but still premium-feeling.

Using Logitech’s Options Plus software, you can customize the POP Mouse, with a surprising amount of tweaks available. The right and left click can’t be altered, but the scroll button and Emoji menu button can be remapped to perform a variety of actions. These include keyboard shortcuts via the recording of your own combinations, and a variety of system-level functions, which include media playback controls, opening apps, taking screenshots, and opening the Windows Action Center. There’s even an option to open ChatGPT in a pop-up window.

Hand holding Logitech POP, showing underside

(Image credit: Future)

You can also map these buttons to gestures: by holding them and making certain mouse movements, you can perform a variety of navigational and cycling actions, such as switching app windows or selecting the next or previous tracks.

Logitech also has a feature called Smart Actions, a more advanced form of macros. There are various presets already included in Options Plus, such as Meeting Mode, which opens Zoom (if already installed) and Notepad at the same time, and Social Media Break, which opens Instagram’s website in a new Chrome tab. These can be edited as you see fit.

You can also create your own Smart Actions from scratch, by adding certain conditions and layers of actions to automate any number of processes you can conceive of. You’re given some basic building blocks, which are: opening applications, performing keystrokes, writing blocks of text, and performing system functions. You can also set delay times between each action.

Options Plus also has a feature called Logi Flow, which is supposed to make device switching even more seamless by letting you simply drag the cursor from one device to another, although I was unable to get this working on numerous machines, as a connection failed to establish.

Additionally, Options Plus lets you invert the scroll wheel direction, and toggle something called Smart Scrolling, which is supposed to make scrolling web pages smoother. While I did find this to be the case, it was also slower, so I didn’t find it particularly useful.

Logitech claims a staggering 24-month battery life for the POP Mouse. Naturally, I wasn’t able to exhaust it, but I can say that after about a week’s worth of use across numerous devices, the battery remained at 100%, so it certainly seems to have plenty of endurance.

At this price, the POP Mouse represents good value thanks to its performance and in-depth customization options via the Options Plus software. However, the lack of side buttons and additional connectivity methods is a shame, omissions that could deter those who demand high productivity credentials.

The wireless mouse sector is a hotly contested one, and there are plenty of great value options to choose from. The Microsoft Modern Mobile Mouse is an equally capable performer, although it costs more than the POP Mouse and lacks customization software. If you’re prepared to spend a little bit more, you could go for the Logitech MX Anywhere 3, which has better scrolling capabilities as well as side buttons.

Close-up of rear of Logitech POP on plinth with plant in background

(Image credit: Future)

Logitech POP Mouse review: Price & availability

  • $29.99 / £24.99 / AU$59.95
  • Available now in multiple colors

The Logitech POP Mouse costs $29.99 / £24.99 / AU$$59.95 and is available now in multiple and vibrant colorways, some with two-tone schemes. It comes with a AA battery preinstalled.

The best wireless mouse for those on a budget, as far as we’re concerned, is the Microsoft Modern Mobile Mouse. This similarly has a slim and light form factor, although it adopts a square shape rather than a round one. It also requires two AAA batteries rather than one AA battery. While we found its performance to be great for a mouse of this price, it doesn’t have many features, with no native software for customization. At 78g, it weighs slightly less than the POP Mouse, which sits at 82g.

If you’re willing to spend a bit more, you could get the Logitech MX Anywhere 3, which is the best portable mouse in our view, and a great mid-range buy thanks to its excellent scrolling abilities and overall accuracy – plus it can be customized using Options, Logitech’s last-gen peripheral tool.

Logitech POP Mouse review: Specs

Should I buy the Logitech POP Mouse?

Buy it if...

You want great clicks
I haven’t come across another budget-friendly productivity mouse with better clicks than this. The ultra-damped feel might not appeal to everyone, but I liked them.

You want plenty of customizations
Thanks to its integration with Options Plus, the scope of customizations is surprisingly large, considering only the scroll click and Emoji menu button are rebindable.

Don't buy it if...

You want more than Bluetooth
Even today Bluetooth can have its reliability issues, and although you can switch easily between three devices, the lack of a wireless dongle or even a USB port on the POP Mouse might be a problem for some.

You want lots of buttons
You don’t even get side buttons on the POP Mouse, which can be a real downer for those who do a lot of web browsing.

Logitech POP Mouse: Also consider

Microsoft Modern Mobile Mouse
Another basic mouse, the Microsoft Modern Mobile Mouse sports the same basic functionality as the POP Mouse, lacking side buttons and a rechargeable battery. It misses out on software for customizing it, but we think it performs very well, thanks to its solid clicks and lightweight form. Read our Microsoft Modern Mobile Mouse review.

Logitech MX Anywhere 3
The best portable mouse in our view, the Logitech MX Anywhere 3 packs in more features and functions, such as side buttons and a scroll wheel with two resistance levels. What also sets it apart from the POP Mouse is the rechargeable battery and USB-C port, and the added connectivity options, courtesy of the included 2.4GHz wireless dongle, so you won’t have to rely solely on Bluetooth. Even better is the fact that it’s still relatively cheap. Read our Logitech MX Anywhere 3 review.

How I tested the Logitech POP Mouse

  • Used with multiple devices
  • Used with Options Plus software
  • Plentiful peripheral testing experience

I tested the POP Mouse for about a week, using it for working and general browsing. I used it with multiple devices, including Windows 10 laptop and desktop, a MacBook Pro, and a Chromebook.

I also made as many tweaks and customizations as possible using Logitech’s Options Plus software, rebinding the scroll click and Emoji button to the various functions available.

I have experience reviewing a myriad of peripherals, including mice and keyboards for both productivity and for gaming, across a range of price points.

I love the feel of the Logitech POP Mouse, but it does miss out on a few features
1:00 am |
Author: admin | Category: Computers Computing Gadgets Mice Peripherals & Accessories | Comments: Off

Logitech POP Mouse: Two-minute review

The Logitech POP Mouse is a small and simple wireless mouse for productivity and general browsing, with its versatile Bluetooth connectivity and customization options pitched at modern workers.

It sports a stylish design courtesy of its pebble-like shape, front slope and one-piece unit for the mouse buttons. This is extended further by the multiple colorways, which utilize a soft, light palette, with some two-tone schemes thrown in for good measure.

Although it’s quite small and thin compared to the best mouse options around, the POP Mouse fitted my hand and fingers well. The body is thick enough to get a good grip, and the rear weight bias means it’s easy to tilt backwards for lift-offs between swipes. The completely symmetrical design also makes it suitable for left and right handers alike.

There’s a distinct lack of buttons on the POP Mouse, with the only topside additions being a scroll wheel and a button below it. Underneath you’ll find the power slider and the Easy Switching button used for pairing and toggling between three different Bluetooth devices.

The aforementioned one-piece unit for the mouse buttons also doubles as the battery compartment cover. It’s attached magnetically to the mouse’s body, and the robust plastic achieves the ideal balance between easy removal and secure fastening.

Close-up of Logitech POP on plinth with pink background

(Image credit: Future)

Even better, though, are the switches for mouse buttons. They’re very tactile and heavily damped, so much so that they barely make a sound in use. This makes for a satisfyingly padded sensation, and more pleasurable to use than I was expecting for a mouse of this kind. Those who prefer the loud, sharp clicks of traditional switches may not find the POP Mouse provides enough feel or feedback, but personally, I enjoyed using them for general and productivity purposes.

The scroll wheel is also damped nicely, as well as being lightly notched. When you flick quickly, it enters into a free-wheeling state to some degree, which is a handy feature; I only wish this triggered more readily, as it didn’t make navigating long documents and web pages as easy as I was hoping.

However, it does feel well-made and the rubber material on top is smooth to the touch. The scroll click is secure and tactile as well, while the button below – which opens an Emoji menu by default – is more snappy but still premium-feeling.

Using Logitech’s Options Plus software, you can customize the POP Mouse, with a surprising amount of tweaks available. The right and left click can’t be altered, but the scroll button and Emoji menu button can be remapped to perform a variety of actions. These include keyboard shortcuts via the recording of your own combinations, and a variety of system-level functions, which include media playback controls, opening apps, taking screenshots, and opening the Windows Action Center. There’s even an option to open ChatGPT in a pop-up window.

Hand holding Logitech POP, showing underside

(Image credit: Future)

You can also map these buttons to gestures: by holding them and making certain mouse movements, you can perform a variety of navigational and cycling actions, such as switching app windows or selecting the next or previous tracks.

Logitech also has a feature called Smart Actions, a more advanced form of macros. There are various presets already included in Options Plus, such as Meeting Mode, which opens Zoom (if already installed) and Notepad at the same time, and Social Media Break, which opens Instagram’s website in a new Chrome tab. These can be edited as you see fit.

You can also create your own Smart Actions from scratch, by adding certain conditions and layers of actions to automate any number of processes you can conceive of. You’re given some basic building blocks, which are: opening applications, performing keystrokes, writing blocks of text, and performing system functions. You can also set delay times between each action.

Options Plus also has a feature called Logi Flow, which is supposed to make device switching even more seamless by letting you simply drag the cursor from one device to another, although I was unable to get this working on numerous machines, as a connection failed to establish.

Additionally, Options Plus lets you invert the scroll wheel direction, and toggle something called Smart Scrolling, which is supposed to make scrolling web pages smoother. While I did find this to be the case, it was also slower, so I didn’t find it particularly useful.

Logitech claims a staggering 24-month battery life for the POP Mouse. Naturally, I wasn’t able to exhaust it, but I can say that after about a week’s worth of use across numerous devices, the battery remained at 100%, so it certainly seems to have plenty of endurance.

At this price, the POP Mouse represents good value thanks to its performance and in-depth customization options via the Options Plus software. However, the lack of side buttons and additional connectivity methods is a shame, omissions that could deter those who demand high productivity credentials.

The wireless mouse sector is a hotly contested one, and there are plenty of great value options to choose from. The Microsoft Modern Mobile Mouse is an equally capable performer, although it costs more than the POP Mouse and lacks customization software. If you’re prepared to spend a little bit more, you could go for the Logitech MX Anywhere 3, which has better scrolling capabilities as well as side buttons.

Close-up of rear of Logitech POP on plinth with plant in background

(Image credit: Future)

Logitech POP Mouse review: Price & availability

  • $29.99 / £24.99 / AU$59.95
  • Available now in multiple colors

The Logitech POP Mouse costs $29.99 / £24.99 / AU$$59.95 and is available now in multiple and vibrant colorways, some with two-tone schemes. It comes with a AA battery preinstalled.

The best wireless mouse for those on a budget, as far as we’re concerned, is the Microsoft Modern Mobile Mouse. This similarly has a slim and light form factor, although it adopts a square shape rather than a round one. It also requires two AAA batteries rather than one AA battery. While we found its performance to be great for a mouse of this price, it doesn’t have many features, with no native software for customization. At 78g, it weighs slightly less than the POP Mouse, which sits at 82g.

If you’re willing to spend a bit more, you could get the Logitech MX Anywhere 3, which is the best portable mouse in our view, and a great mid-range buy thanks to its excellent scrolling abilities and overall accuracy – plus it can be customized using Options, Logitech’s last-gen peripheral tool.

Logitech POP Mouse review: Specs

Should I buy the Logitech POP Mouse?

Buy it if...

You want great clicks
I haven’t come across another budget-friendly productivity mouse with better clicks than this. The ultra-damped feel might not appeal to everyone, but I liked them.

You want plenty of customizations
Thanks to its integration with Options Plus, the scope of customizations is surprisingly large, considering only the scroll click and Emoji menu button are rebindable.

Don't buy it if...

You want more than Bluetooth
Even today Bluetooth can have its reliability issues, and although you can switch easily between three devices, the lack of a wireless dongle or even a USB port on the POP Mouse might be a problem for some.

You want lots of buttons
You don’t even get side buttons on the POP Mouse, which can be a real downer for those who do a lot of web browsing.

Logitech POP Mouse: Also consider

Microsoft Modern Mobile Mouse
Another basic mouse, the Microsoft Modern Mobile Mouse sports the same basic functionality as the POP Mouse, lacking side buttons and a rechargeable battery. It misses out on software for customizing it, but we think it performs very well, thanks to its solid clicks and lightweight form. Read our Microsoft Modern Mobile Mouse review.

Logitech MX Anywhere 3
The best portable mouse in our view, the Logitech MX Anywhere 3 packs in more features and functions, such as side buttons and a scroll wheel with two resistance levels. What also sets it apart from the POP Mouse is the rechargeable battery and USB-C port, and the added connectivity options, courtesy of the included 2.4GHz wireless dongle, so you won’t have to rely solely on Bluetooth. Even better is the fact that it’s still relatively cheap. Read our Logitech MX Anywhere 3 review.

How I tested the Logitech POP Mouse

  • Used with multiple devices
  • Used with Options Plus software
  • Plentiful peripheral testing experience

I tested the POP Mouse for about a week, using it for working and general browsing. I used it with multiple devices, including Windows 10 laptop and desktop, a MacBook Pro, and a Chromebook.

I also made as many tweaks and customizations as possible using Logitech’s Options Plus software, rebinding the scroll click and Emoji button to the various functions available.

I have experience reviewing a myriad of peripherals, including mice and keyboards for both productivity and for gaming, across a range of price points.

I used the Asus Chromebook CM14 for everything from productivity to gaming and found its performance as light as its weight
10:00 pm | February 8, 2025
Author: admin | Category: Chromebooks Computers Computing Gadgets Laptops | Tags: | Comments: Off

Asus Chromebook CM14: Two-minute review

The Asus Chromebook CM14 occupies the lower end of the market with its low price and spec, but it aspires to nail the basics.

It boasts a thin and light design that’s impressive for a 14-inch Chromebook. The steely black colorway is fairly austere but it looks smart. Build quality is also good, although the lid is a little flimsy – still, it does recline all the way back to 180 degrees, so it’s certainly flexible.

The partially recycled materials feel solid, and the keyboard is laid nicely, with plenty of space between keys whilst remaining compact, which is a combination I prefer. There’s also a good selection of ports on the Asus Chromebook CM14, with two USB-C ports, a SuperSpeed (SS) USB-A port, a microSD slot and a 3.5mm headphone port.

What isn’t so good, however, is the display. It lacks the clarity and sharpness of some of the best Chromebook devices around, and it’s too reflective when it strays even marginally beyond the optimal viewing angle, either washing out or blacking out entirely.

Things are worse when it comes to performance. Although it can handle light productivity, general browsing, 2K video playback and some light gaming, it can struggle with these on occasion. What’s worse, though, is that it's severely hamstrung by multitasking, with stutters, slow downs, and crashes a frequent occurrence, at least when equipped with 4GB of RAM, which is low by today’s standards.

The typing experience of the Asus Chromebook CM14 is pleasant enough, thanks to the tactile feel of the keys and their low profile. However, the touchpad is another drawback, as there’s too much friction; the surface is nowhere near as smooth as that on, say, the best MacBook models. And no matter what you do with the sensitivity settings, it either travels too much – continuing to move even once your finger stops – or too slowly, making it feel sluggish and imprecise.

One of the saving graces of the Asus Chromebook CM14, though, is the battery life. It lasted over nine hours during our battery test, which isn’t that far off its claimed 15 hour figure. It’s also quite quick to charge, taking about four hours to replenish completely from empty, again close to Asus’ claim.

The Asus Chromebook CM14 is also very cheap, and undercuts many other Chromebooks, even those that are considered good value. But performance is sacrificed, especially when multitasking. If you’re on the lookout for Chromebooks that won’t break the bank, then the Lenovo IdeaPad Flex 3 Chromebook is the best in this regard, while the Acer Chromebook Plus 515 is great for students.

Asus Chromebook CM14: Price and availability

Asus Chromebook CM14 closed on desk

(Image credit: Future)
  • $299 / £299 (about AU$473)
  • Available now in black
  • Cheaper than the competition

The Asus Chromebook CM14 costs $299 / £299 (about AU$473) and is available now in one color: black. It can be configured with 4GB or 8GB of RAM, but only one storage size: 64GB.

It’s cheaper than the best laptops in the budget-friendly realm, and even cheaper than the Lenovo IdeaPad Flex 3 Chromebook, which is the best Chromebook for those on a budget in our view. However, the IdeaPad Flex 3 is a 2-in-1 device, so can be used like a tablet when the mood strikes. It also has an even better battery life than the Asus Chromebook CM14, and is built like a tank to boot.

For about the same price or cheaper than the Asus Chromebook CM14 in some territories, you could have the Acer Chromebook 314, which is one of the best student Chromebook picks for those on a budget. Like the Asus Chromebook CM14, it has a great battery life, but with the added benefits of a 2-in-1 design and an impressive display – aspects the Asus Chromebook CM14 lacks.

  • Value: 3.5 / 5

Asus Chromebook CM14: Specs

The review unit of the Asus Chromebook CM14 I had was configured with 4GB of RAM.

Asus Chromebook CM14: Design

Close-up of webcam on Asus Chromebook CM14

(Image credit: Future)
  • Thin and light for its size
  • 180-degree opening
  • Not the sharpest display

The Asus Chromebook CM14 sports a smart, understated design. The dull black colorway does little to inject much interest, but it certainly fits in a professional environment. It’s also pleasantly light and thin given its 14-inch size, weighing just 1.45kg (3.20 lbs). Both these aspects make it easy to travel with.

The build quality seems quite good too, with the partially recycled materials appearing relatively robust for a Chromebook of this class. However, the hinge for the lid isn’t the tightest, causing the screen to feel a little flimsy, but I wouldn’t highlight this as a major concern.

The hinges also prop up the back of the chassis when the lid is open past 90 degrees, but thankfully the bottom remains stable enough to type on. The lid also reclines all the way to 180 degrees, which provides flexible usage options.

The two USB-C ports are a welcome addition considering their versatility, as they allow for power and data – including internet – to run through, as well as facilitating connections to a myriad of peripherals, including external displays. There’s also one USB-A port with SuperSpeed (SS) capability, a Micro SD slot, and a 3.5mm audio jack, useful for those using wired headphones or speakers.

The display, on the other hand, is a let down. The 1366 x 768 resolution looks outdated, with an ever-present blurriness plaguing the interface, no matter how you resize it in the system settings. It also looks a little washed out, lacking the vibrancy of other Chromebook displays. It’s quite reflective too, with certain angles causing the screen to turn almost completely white or black, depending on the ambient lighting.

  • Design score: 3.5 / 5

Asus Chromebook CM14: Performance

Close-up of Asus Chromebook CM14 ports on left side

(Image credit: Future)
  • Handles light work and gaming
  • Good for typing
  • Terrible for multitasking
Benchmarks

These are the results of our benchmarking tests for the Asus Chromebook CM14:

TechRadar Battery Life Test: 9 hours and 26 minutes
Jetstream2 Benchmark: 86.506
Kraken Benchmark: 1769.0ms
Speedometer 3.0: 3.49 (±0.12)

The Asus Chromebook CM14 handles the kind of light productivity Chromebook users typically perform reasonably well. Word processing and spreadsheet creation are viable, as is video playback, even at 2K resolutions – but expect the occasional buffer and slowdown at this quality.

As for gaming, the Asus Chromebook CM14 can handle titles with low graphical demands smoothly. I was able to play Clash of Clans with no issue, and Asphalt Legends Unite was just about feasible on high settings; although it was prone to stutter and slowdowns, it wasn't enough to render it unplayable. At lower settings and 30fps, it ran much more smoothly. I was also able to connect a controller via Bluetooth with no issue. More demanding games would be out of the question, though, as the spec is certainly no match for the best gaming laptops out there.

Unfortunately, the Asus Chromebook CM14 falls flat when it comes to multitasking, with the 4GB of RAM installed in my test unit failing to handle even weak workloads. Lightweight applications, including Google’s own software, can create serious issues, with frequent slow-downs, freezes, and outright crashes.

If you hope to run even a couple of apps in tandem, then you’ll likely be disappointed with the performance. Even Chrome can struggle to run with a less-than-moderate amount of tabs open, and basic ChromeOS functions, such as entering task view, can result in freezes too.

Asus Chromebook CM14 on desk open 180 degrees

(Image credit: Future)

One of the more positive aspects of the performance, though, is the lack of heat and noise produced by the Asus Chromebook CM14. During my time with it, I never heard the fans whirring up under heavy loads, and it never got too hot to touch.

Typing on the Asus Chromebook CM14 is mostly a pleasant experience as well, as the keys are well-spaced and provide enough tactility. Their profile is low too, which makes gliding around them easy. And despite the corner of my right palm making contact with the touchpad while typing, gestures, swipes and clicks never unintentionally registered.

However, that’s about the only positive aspect of the touchpad, as it’s one of the more frustrating aspects of the Asus Chromebook CM14. No matter what sensitivity settings I used, cursor movements were either too sluggish or too fast, with the cursor continuing to move after my finger had stopped, making accurate navigation difficult. What’s more, the surface isn’t smooth enough and generates too much friction, causing a nasty rubbing sensation on the fingers.

As for the webcam, the 720p resolution provides just enough clarity, but there is certainly an element of graininess to images. My camera footage did freeze when making a call in Google Meet, but this could’ve been more of a software glitch rather than a hardware one.

The speakers on the Asus Chromebook CM14 provide reasonable playback quality, with little in the way of distortion and tinniness, as other Chromebook and laptop speakers can suffer from. However, as they’re located on its underside, audio is somewhat muffled, so those after the utmost clarity won’t be best pleased. However, I found them sufficient for calls and other content where sound quality isn’t a top priority.

  • Performance score: 2 / 5

Asus Chromebook CM14: Battery life

Close-up of underside corner of Asus Chromebook CM14

(Image credit: Future)
  • Great battery life
  • Better than rivals
  • Quick charging too

The Asus Chromebook CM14 redeems itself somewhat with its battery life. Asus claims it will last up to 15 hours, and during our benchmark, it lasted close to nine and a half hours, which is an admirable performance. Charging it from flat to full took about four hours, which is in line with what Asus claims.

It beats the Acer Chromebook Plus 515, our current pick as the best student laptop, which only managed five hours according to our test and was one of the biggest drawbacks of that particular Chromebook. However, it is bested by the best Chromebook overall in our view, the Acer Chromebook Spin 314, which managed over ten hours.

  • Battery life: 4 / 5

Should I buy the Asus Chromebook CM14?

Buy it if...

You want a long battery life
One of the most impressive aspects of the Asus Chromebook CM14 is its long battery life, and charging times are also conveniently quick.

You’ll want something easy to carry around
Thanks to its light and thin design, the Asus Chromebook CM14 is easy to travel with. That 180-degree lid opening gives it greater flexibility, too.

Don't buy it if...

You want to do any kind of multitasking
Word processing, streaming content, and light gaming it can handle – but as soon as you start doing multiple things at once, it grinds to a halt.

You want the best display
The 14-inch display isn’t the clearest, and even when you scale the resolution, things don’t improve. It’s also too reflective if the angle isn’t just so.

Asus Chromebook CM14 review: Also consider

If you're in the market for a new Chromebook, here are some alternatives to the Asus Chromebook CM14...

Acer Chromebook Spin 314 (2023)
As our current pick as the best Chromebook overall, the Acer Chromebook Spin 314 (2023) gets most aspects right for this kind of device: it has a great display, is good for typing with and is easy to carry around. Battery life is also very good. Read our Acer Chromebook Spin 314 (2023) review.

Lenovo IdeaPad Flex 3 Chromebook
If you’re looking for another budget-friendly offering, then you should consider the Lenovo IdeaPad Flex 3, as we think it’s the best Chromebook around in terms of value for money. It’s more expensive than the Asus Chromebook CM14, but we were impressed with its great build quality and battery life. The performance isn’t the best, but we still found it capable of running ChromeOS and Google apps reasonably well. Read our Lenovo IdeaPad Flex 3 Chromebook review.

How I tested the Asus Chromebook CM14

  • Tested for about a week
  • Used in a variety of scenarios
  • Extensive laptop and Chromebook experience

I tested the Asus Chromebook CM14 for about a week, during which time I used it for working, browsing, watching video content and playing games. I also connected various peripherals to it via Bluetooth and USB, including a mouse and a gamepad.

I played games such as Clash of Clans and Asphalt Legends Unite. I used Google Docs and Google Sheets, and made use of third-party apps, including Steam and VLC. I also used other popular apps, including YouTube for watching video content in full-HD and ultra-HD. I also streamed video content via Twitch and made a video call to try out its webcam and inbuilt mic.

I have experience testing laptops and have owned a number of such devices, including other Chromebooks, Windows and Mac laptops.

I like a large mouse as much as the next gamer, but the Turtle Beach Kone II Air is too much for me to handle
9:30 am | February 7, 2025
Author: admin | Category: Computers Computing Gadgets Mice Peripherals & Accessories | Tags: | Comments: Off

Turtle Beach Kone 2 Air: Two-minute review

The Turtle Beach Kone 2 Air is a large gaming mouse with some useful features aimed at improving the user experience for players. It stands out due to that size and its shape, with its concave sides, the left of which juts out at the bottom to accommodate the Easy Shift button. The body is very smooth with no texturing.

The white colorway features some subtle gray accents on the buttons and scroll wheel, and overall it looks relatively mature compared to other gaming peripherals, although it still isn’t exactly elegant.

Compared to the best gaming mouse out there, the RGB lighting on the Kone 2 Air is relatively large, with two stripes running along the top, as well as the usual LED on the scroll wheel.

The Kone 2 Air adopts a wide, squat stance and features a relatively flat top, so those with larger hands will likely find this fills their palms more substantially than other gaming mice do. With that large size, though, comes a heavy 110g weight.

Turtle Beach Kone II Air on desk with USB cable and dongle

(Image credit: Future)

By contrast, the clicks are light and snappy, yet well damped, and the same is true of the two side buttons and the DPI cycle button on top. The scroll wheel feels smooth to the touch and features 4D scrolling, allowing you to tilt it left and right for horizontal navigation. It also has a free spin function, activated by pressing the button above the DPI cycle. This allows you to disengage the notching to scroll much faster, yet it still feels reassuringly weighty and smooth.

However, without free spin activated, there’s a little too much play in the wheel, making it hard to get a feel for single flicks. The scroll click, however, is reassuringly solid and easy to press in the heat of the moment, as well as providing satisfying feedback and a clearly audible click.

The included USB cable is braided and light, so there’s next to no drag when using it. However, it doesn’t seem as thick or as durable as those on other gaming mice. It’s also quite short, so you’ll need your machine relatively close by if you want to play in wired mode.

Turtle Beach’s peripheral software, Swarm 2, allows for numerous adjustments and customizations. There are numerous rebinding options, such as keyboard keys (including in combination with modifiers) and media controls, but there’s only two system level shortcuts available: one for shutdown and one for sleep. There’s also a wholly separate layer for assigning secondary inputs courtesy of Easy Shift, and naturally, you can also customize the RGB lighting in Swarm 2.

Swarm 2 features some useful adjustments for gaming too, such as Motion Sync and Angle Snapping, as well as a debounce time slider between 0-10 (no unit is given here).

However, there’s no setting labeled lift-off distance; instead, there’s what Swarm 2 calls DCU Calibration. You have settings for low and very low, as well as a custom setting which takes you to a calibrator, asks you to make circular movements with the cursor, and automatically selects an appropriate lift-off distance for you – although it doesn’t tell you what this distance is.

There’s also the typical DPI settings, with five predefined points for you to adjust for cycling. There’s a DPI calibrator too, which asks you to hit a series of targets in order to automatically pick what it thinks is the best DPI setting for you.

Macro recording is possible, and Swarm 2 even includes a range of default macros for a number of popular games and productivity software, including Microsoft Office and Photoshop.

Side buttons of Turtle Beach Kone II Air

(Image credit: Future)

Gaming with the Kone 2 Air is a mixed experience. All buttons are responsive and satisfying to use, but the overall form isn’t the most ergonomic, as the sides don’t offer enough grip, even if you apply the included grip tape.

The indentation of each side only occurs towards the rear, and flattens out immediately, which meant my thumb and fingers couldn’t set in place for greater security. As a result, I had to squeeze tighter than I normally would for, which naturally compromises movement speed; I never truly felt comfortable holding the Kone 2 Air.

That hefty weight the Kone 2 Air is saddled with only adds to the problem. It prevents glides from being smooth and seamless. The weight is also concentrated towards the rear, which makes the mouse feel unbalanced as it has a tendency to tilt backwards when lifting off.

Thankfully, the Easy Shift button is easy to reach and hit with your thumb. The RGB lighting also changes color when held, which is a useful indicator that I was just able to make out in my peripheral vision, without it being distracting.

When it comes to connectivity, using the Kone 2 Air via Bluetooth or the 2.4GHz is as quick and easy as can be, and switching between two devices on the fly works pretty much flawlessly, merely requiring a flick of the switch underneath.

Turtle Beach states a very long battery life for the Kone 2 Air: 350 hours via Bluetooth and 150 via the 2.4GHz wireless dongle. Although I wasn’t able to test its limits during my time with it, I can say that after several days of varied use, it only dropped a few percentage points, so its claims would seem to hold water.

The Kone 2 Air is a divisive gaming mouse, then. Those with larger hands may prefer it more, thanks to its size and weight. However, those after speed and comfort will be better served by lighter, higher-performing mice, such as the Razer DeathAdder V3 Pro – and, if saving money is a top priority, the Logitech G305 Lightspeed and Cooler Master MM311 are better alternatives.

Underneath of Turtle Beach Kone II Air and USB dongle

(Image credit: Future)

Turtle Beach Kone 2 Air: Price & availability

  • $119 / £119 (about AU$182)
  • Available now in black and white colorways
  • Undercuts some popular brands

The Turtle Beach Kone 2 Air costs $119 / £119 (about AU$182) and comes in two colorways: black and white. A wired only version is also available for considerably less, at $59 / £59 (about AU$90).

Compared to the best wireless gaming mice, it sits towards the lower end of the market. It’s cheaper than popular offerings from Razer, including the DeathAdder V3 Pro. That mouse, though, is capable of polling at 8K (albeit requiring an additional adapter).

There are some that undercut it, including mice in Logitech’s Lightspeed range, such as the G305 Lightspeed and G309 Lightspeed. However, the former can only connect wirelessly via the Lightspeed USB dongle (there’s no Bluetooth), and both have no rechargeable battery, requiring a AA each instead.

Then there’s the Cooler Master MM311, our pick as the best gaming mouse for those on a budget. It massively undercuts the competition, and although this too has no rechargeable battery or Bluetooth connectivity, it still offers brilliant gaming performance with wireless capability.

Turtle Beach Kone 2 Air: Specs

Should I buy the Turtle Beach Kone 2 Air?

Buy it if...

You want multiple connectivity options
With Bluetooth, a 2.4GHz receiver and USB-C connectivity, the Kone 2 Air is ideal for multi-device setups, allowing you to switch between the different modes on the fly.

You have large hands
The size and weight of the Kone 2 Air lends itself to those with big palms, although even they may struggle to grip it securely.

Don't buy it if...

You want something small
The Kone 2 Air is about as full as they come, so if you don’t like your mouse filling your palm, this won’t be for you.

You want pro-level performance
The heavy weight and 1K polling rate likely won’t cut it for pro-level players, who require the utmost speed and smoothness in their movements.

Turtle Beach Kone 2 Air: Also consider

Cooler Master MM311
If you’re on a budget, then you can’t do much better than the MM311. It shares the same 1K polling rate as the Kone 2 Air, although it’s considerably lighter at 77g. However, it has no inbuilt battery, requiring a AA instead. There’s also no wired or Bluetooth modes available. However, if you can live without these, then the MM311 offers serious value for money. Read our full Cooler Master MM311 review.

Logitech G305 Lightspeed
Another pick as one of the best wireless gaming mouse for those on a budget, the G305 Lightspeed offers serious performance for the money. It’s only a little more expensive than the Cooler Master, and still a whole lot cheaper than the Kone 2 Air. However, it too has no rechargeable battery and no Bluetooth connectivity. Read our Logitech G305 Lightspeed review.

How I tested the Turtle Beach Kone 2 Air

  • Tested for several days
  • Played FPS titles
  • 10+ years PC gaming experience

I tested the Kone 2 Air for several days, during which time I used it for playing games, productivity, and general use.

I played Counter-Strike 2, the litmus test for gaming mice, as well as Black Mesa. I made sure to try as many features and functions as possible on both the mouse and in the GG software.

I have been PC gaming for over 10 years, and during that time I have experienced a variety of mice. I have also reviewed numerous units, ranging in size, weight, performance and price.

The Cherry XTRFY M64 Wireless fits my hand like a glove, but I’m not sure it’s the best value gaming mouse around
9:30 pm | February 6, 2025
Author: admin | Category: Computers Computing Gadgets Mice Peripherals & Accessories | Tags: | Comments: Off

Cherry XTRFY M64 Wireless: Two-minute review

The Cherry XTRFY M64 Wireless is a lightweight wireless gaming mouse with a small size and a unique form factor for improved ergonomics and handling.

Aesthetically, the M64 Wireless keeps things rather simple. The black colorway with mint green accents that I tested looked sharp and understated. White and blue variants with green and orange accents respectively are also available. No model has any RGB lighting, though, which is something of a rarity in this sector.

The asymmetrical shape of the M64 Wireless fit my hand and grip style very well. It’s among the best gaming mouse in terms of ergonomics, with the long indentations of the side walls and downwards rake of the mouse buttons accommodating my thumb and fingers perfectly.

What may prove contentious, however, is the location of the USB-C port. It’s on the rear right side, which, depending on your particular gaming setup, may put play-and-charge beyond your reach – literally.

Rear of Cherry XTRFY M64 Wireless on table with pink background and plant

(Image credit: Future)

Thankfully, the included USB cable is very light and causes next to no drag at all. It’s also very long, so even if your PC is to your left, you still might be able to find some way to route it adequately. The recess of the port on the mouse body is also very deep, so I had no concern about accidentally knocking it out either.

The M64 Wireless has no accompanying software; rather, all adjustments are made via the power slider and selector buttons underneath, as well as a few combinations of the topside buttons. The power slider has three positions for selecting the CPI, polling rate, and debounce time. With one of these selected, the selector button cycles through the various settings for each of these parameters.

Despite not being able to fine-tune these settings via any software, I found the available presets to be sufficient. There are eight CPI settings, ranging from 400 to 26,000, four polling rates from 125Hz to 1000Hz, and four debounce times ranging from 2ms to 12ms. A small LED light flashes certain colors to indicate the setting selected, with the key detailed in the manual.

On paper, it’s a clever solution given the lack of software, but it can be quite fiddly, as it involves referring back to the manual to check what color indicates what setting, although it could be argued that after initial setup, you probably won’t be changing them regularly. Still, a software tool would’ve made on-the-fly adjustments simpler and quicker.

Various topside button combinations can be used to alter the lift-off distance between 1mm and 2mm, as well as toggle Motion Sync on or off. There’s also a combination for checking the battery level, with four different colors indicating the percentage range. Personally, I would’ve liked the more precise readout that software provides. Also, these button combinations are again quite fiddly and inconvenient to use quickly.

Side of Cherry XTRFY M64 Wireless on table with pink background and plant

(Image credit: Future)

To game with, however, I found little fault with the M64 Wireless’ performance. The aforementioned form factor made it easy to grip and maneuver, further helped by the light 53g weight and ultrasmooth PTFE skates – although these are quite thin, so aren’t the best for unpadded surfaces. The precision and speed of the Pixart 3395 sensor is also great for a 1K mouse.

The Huano Transparent Blue Shell Pink Dot switches in the main mouse buttons are snappy yet controlled, and the same goes for the two side buttons. The scroll wheel is also notched just right, allowing for quick yet secure flicks. The scroll click strikes a similar balance, being responsive without causing accidental spins.

Cherry claims the M64 Wireless can last 75 hours on a single charge, and I’m inclined to believe this figure. After several days of use, I was still in the green, indicating a level between 76-100%.

Considering its price, the M64 Wireless sits a little too close to the M68 Pro, which offers a similar shape and performance, yet has an 8K polling rate for maximum pro-level performance, although only serious gamers will likely notice the difference.

It’s also about the same as the Razer DeathAdder V3 Hyperspeed, which has the benefit of integrating with Synapse, Razer’s in-depth peripheral software, offering numerous tweaks and customizations, including button rebinds and HyperShift functionality.

So while the M64 Wireless is a great feeling and excellent performing wireless gaming mouse, there are equally capable pointers at this price point, yet offer more in the way of features and functionality.

Cherry XTRFY M64 Wireless on table with USB dongle on pink background with plant

(Image credit: Future)

Cherry XTRFY M64 Wireless: Price & availability

  • $92 / £99 / AU$133
  • Available now in various colors
  • Same price as better-equipped rivals

The M64 Wireless costs $92 / £99 / AU$133 and is available now in black, white, and blue colorways. It comes with a USB-A-to-C cable for charging and wired play.

It sits a little too close to the M68 Pro Wireless, which is only about $30 more, yet has an upgraded polling rate of 8K. The ergonomic form is very similar too, although the mouse buttons slope even more, which might deter some.

The Cooler Master MM311 is one of the best wireless gaming mouse picks for those on a budget, thanks to its ultra-low price and great performance. It’s heavier than the M64 Wireless at 77g and requires a AA battery, but if you can live with these facts, it’s hard to beat for sheer value.

Cherry XTRFY M64 Wireless: Specs

Should I buy the Cherry XTRFY M64 Wireless?

Buy it if...

You want a lightweight mouse
At 53g, the M64 Wireless is on the light side of the spectrum, which makes it easy to maneuver.

You want great ergonomics
The unique shape of the M64 Wireless provided me with a comfortable grip, and the downwards slope of the mouse buttons was a natural fit for my fingers too.

Don't buy it if...

You want plenty of features
There’s no software for the M64 Wireless, which means no rebinding or macros options. There aren’t many on-board buttons either.

You want esport-grade performance
Since the polling rate only goes up to 1K, competitive players might need something even more precise.

Cherry XTRFY M64 Wireless: Also consider

Cherry XTRFY M68 Pro Wireless
For not much more, you could get the M68 Pro Wireless instead, which ups the polling rate to 8K for unparalleled cursor precision and smoothness. It also has a similar shape to the M64 Wireless, although the rake of the mouse buttons is even steeper, which might not sit so well with some gamers.

Cooler Master MM311
As one of the best value gaming mice out there, the MM311 is a bargain considering its performance and comfort levels. It’s heavier than the M64 Wireless at 77g, and there’s no rechargeable battery, but if those drawbacks don’t bother you, you can’t do much better at this price point than the MM311. Read our full Cooler Master MM311 review.

How I tested the Cherry XTRFY M64 Wireless

  • Tested for several days
  • Used for gaming, working, and browsing
  • Over 10 years of PC gaming experience

I tested the M64 Wireless for several days, during which time I used it for gaming, working, and general browsing.

To assess its performance, I played Counter-Strike 2 - a stern test for the speed and accuracy of gaming mice, as well as featuring certain settings that can reveal a pointer’s true potential. I also played S.T.A.L.K.E.R. 2: Heart of Chornobyl, another FPS title but one that involves more variation to the pace and range of mouse movements.

I have been PC gaming for over 10 years, and in that time I have experienced plenty of gaming mice. I have also reviewed a number of them, including another offering from Cherry XTRFY, the M68 Pro Wireless.

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