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I tested JBL’s cheap USB-C wired earbuds with a built-in DAC for a week, and they’re great value… with one design flaw
11:00 pm | February 17, 2025

Author: admin | Category: Audio Computers Earbuds & Airpods Gadgets Headphones | Comments: Off

JBL Tune 305C review

If you’re on the hunt for some new earbuds but you’ve not bought into the whole wireless thing, the JBL Tune 305C could be an enticing budget option. These wired earbuds promise punchy bass, a comfortable fit – not a bad package for £16.75 / AU$24 (about $21). So can the JBL Tune 305C live up to these bold promises, or do they instead fall flat?

Well, let’s start where it matters most – sound. Of course, the main attraction is meant to be JBL’s “Pure Bass” sound but despite providing enjoyable warmth, this won’t conjure up the low-end boom that bass heads may want. For instance, when I tuned into Black Eye by Allie X, there was a solid amount of depth to the thumping drum machine, but it lacked the impact and prominence in the mix to really have my head bopping. When listening to All Night Long by Chris Stussy, the bouncing bass never sounded lethargic or unresponsive, but again, it wasn’t as hard-hitting as I’d hoped.

You can be assured, however, that bass won’t sound nasty and distorted. Similarly, I didn’t experience much in terms of tinniness in the treble range or overly thin mids – something that all our picks of the best wired earbuds are capable of circumventing. But clean audio isn’t always a given with budget buds – the Belkin SoundForm Wired Earbuds with USB-C Connector, for instance, are very cheap… and they sound it. The JBL feel like good value in comparison.

Another positive is that the JBL Tune 305C can play hi-res music files thanks to the inclusion of a built-in digital to analog converter (DAC) – pretty impressive for some buds that come in at £16.75 / AU$24 (about $21). But although overall audio is certainly clear, it doesn’t really sound massively detailed.

For instance, I tuned into Clair de Lune by Kamasi Washington and piano notes soaring up and sinking down sounded slightly clumped – where they’d sound more individualized and defined using more premium buds such as the Sennheiser IE 200. Piano was also given a lot more breathing space with the IE 200, whereas it sounded more muddied with the Tune 305C – but not to a degree that it was totally lost in the mix.

One reason that I didn’t get a massively nuanced, informative listen from the Tune 305C was their in-ear fit. Like the Apple EarPods USB-C, they’re pretty loose-fitting, with an 'open-ear' design. They don’t include eartips, like the SoundMagic E11D, for example, meaning sound is less concentrated into the ear canal. Some may prefer the looser feel of these – I can’t deny that they were easy to keep in for longer listening sessions.

But still, they would occasionally feel as if they were falling out, especially when I was on the go. Not ideal if you’re on a run or working out. This design choice also limits noise isolation, so you may have to put up with the sound of that wailing baby on your four-hour flight… uh oh.

But again, some may prefer the more relaxed feel of the Tune 305C. On top of that, these are pretty lightweight and didn’t subject me to all too much cable noise – impressive for buds at this price-point.

Earbud of the JBL Tune 305C

(Image credit: Future)

And that’s not all – you also get a neat controller, which has volume, play/pause and mic controls built-in. Firstly, I have to say I was very impressed with mic quality. There was some very slight tinniness on a phone call, but my voice was nice and clear. Meanwhile, a voice recording came through with limited background static and well-defined vocals – rare for lots of wired earbuds.

You’re not going to believe me, but the fun doesn’t stop there either. If you hold down the volume up button for two seconds, you can even switch between Standard, Bass and Voice modes. EQ settings are pretty rare for cheap wired earbuds, so I was delighted to find this here. Really, the only downside practicality-wise is the lack of waterproofing, which would be ideal for listening in the rain or when exercising.

Another slightly disappointing aspect of these earbuds is their design. The buds each have a raised piece of plastic with the JBL logo on which looks a little clumsy, and the flat wire might not be to everyone’s taste either. Don’t get me wrong, my eyes didn’t burn just looking at the Tune 305C, but I was hardly swooning over them. The controller looks decent, however, and is positioned near your cheek for easy access, not to mention that the wire – despite not being too pretty – is tangle-resistant, which is useful if you need to slide these into your pocket.

All in all, the JBL Tune 305C are a solid pair of in-ear buds. They have typically clean audio with commendable bass and volume, EQ options and a surprisingly good mic. The loose fit does come with sacrifices in the audio and noise isolation departments and it's a shame not to see waterproofing too. But at £16.75 / AU$24 (about $21), there’s still plenty to like here.

If you want a step-up USB-C option, the SoundMagic E80D will outperform the Tune 305C in most departments, but there are some nice cheaper options too, such as the Skullcandy Set USB-C.

USB-C connector on the JBL Tune 305C

(Image credit: Future)

JBL Tune 305C review: Price and release date

  • £16.75 / AU$24 (about $21)
  • Launched in 2024

The JBL Tune 305C launched in 2024 – the same year that the audio specialists dropped the Tune 310C model, which uses ear tips for a more snug, noise-isolating listening experience.

These in-ears are typically priced at £16.75 / AU$24, making them a very budget-friendly option. They’re also available in a number of attractive color variants including: Black, Blue, Red and White – I tested the latter for this review.

JBL Tune 305C review: Specs

Controller for the JBL Tune 305C

(Image credit: Future)

Should I buy the JBL Tune 305C?

Buy them if...

You’re on a tight budget
If you want a cheaper wired option, these are worth considering. At £16.75 / AU$24 (about $21), you get audio that’s rarely tinny or grating, solid loudness and even EQ options – not bad at all.

You’re always on the phone
If you love a phone call, you’ll likely be satisfied with the JBL Tune 305C’s built-in mic. You get decently clear, defined speech as well as call controls, making these ideal for those who enjoy a good natter.

Don't buy them if...

You want strong noise isolation
Due to their loose-fitting design, these JBL Buds will offer very little in the way of noise isolation. If you’re looking for decent passive noise isolation at an ultra-low price, consider the Sony MDR-EX15AP. But if you want to take things up a notch and wouldn’t mind going wireless, then take a peek at our guide to the best noise cancelling earbuds – which includes a very cheap option.

You’re expecting top-tier audio quality
If you’re expecting a top-drawer sonic performance from the JBL Tune 305C you’re likely to be disappointed. Sure, they have a built-in DAC for hi-res listening and pretty warm bass, but they can sometimes produce a fairly bloated sound, especially at high volumes.

JBL Tune 305C review: Also consider

Skullcandy Set USB-C
If you’re looking for a stylish, moderately priced pair of wired earbuds, the Skullcandy Set USB-C could be the perfect fit. They boast a clean, curved design, attractive color options and solid sound quality. There are no built-in volume controls, which is slightly irritating, but IPX4 waterproofing does give it some points in the durability department. Read our full Skullcandy Set USB-C review.

SoundMagic E80D
The SoundMagic E80D are some of the best budget-friendly wired earbuds around. Why? They offer excellent comfort, an inbuilt DAC for hi-res listening and impressive noise isolation. It’s a decent amount more than the JBL Tune 305C, sure, but if you have that extra cash, you’re in for a far superior sonic experience. Read our full SoundMagic E80D review.

JBL Tune 305C review: How I tested

Earbud of the JBL Tune 305C

(Image credit: Future)
  • Tested for one week
  • Used in the office and on public transport
  • Predominantly tested using Tidal

I tested the JBL Tune 305C over the course of one week. When I used these buds for music listening, I mainly used Tidal on the Samsung Galaxy S24 FE, but I also tried them out with YouTube and Spotify on my Windows Laptop.

Not only that, but I made sure to run through tracks in the TechRadar testing playlist, which contains songs from a variety of genres – read our guide on how we test earbuds for more. I did, however, also spend hours tuning into songs from my personal library. And I took the 305C with me everywhere for this review. I tested them at a busy London train station, on walks through my local town centre and in the office.

  • First reviewed: February 2025
  • Read more about how we test
The Ninja Crispi isn’t your typical air fryer – and its unique design makes it worth the price
10:00 pm |

Author: admin | Category: Air Fryers Computers Gadgets Home Small Appliances | Comments: Off

Ninja Crispi 4-in-1 Portable Glass Air Fryer Cooking System: one-minute review

The Ninja Crispi 4-in-1 Portable Glass Air Fryer Cooking System is just that. It is indeed an air fryer, and not really more than that, but the design is utterly unique. Rather than cooking in a plastic drawer, your food goes on a metal tray in a glass cooking container with built-in plastic handles and feet. The heating element, which Ninja calls the PowerPod, is placed onto the glass container. When your cooking is complete, simply remove the PowerPod and place the glass container right onto the table for serving.

If you have leftovers, you can just put the included lid on your glass container and stick it in your fridge. The glass containers come in multiple sizes and the PowerPod has an adapter so it will fit on each container perfectly. There are four cooking modes: Bake, Air Fry, Max Crisp, and Recrisp. Each runs at a different temperature range, so you have some flexibility.

Ninja Crispi 4-in-1 Portable Glass Air Fryer Cooking System: price and availability

  • List price: $159.99 (about £127 / AU$251)

You can purchase the Ninja Crispi directly from Ninja’s website, where it’s available in a number of bundles containing multiple glass containers. You can also purchase extra glass containers in three different sizes separately: $29.99 for the six-cup container, $39.99 for the 2.5-quart container, and $44.99 for the four-quart size. The standard $159.99 system, which I tested, comes with the large four quart and the small six cup glass container. It’s available just about everywhere that sells air fryers online and in person, such as Amazon, Best Buy, Target, Walmart, and many more.

  • Value score: 4.5/5

Ninja Crispi 4-in-1 Portable Glass Air Fryer Cooking System: specifications

Ninja Crispi 4-in-1 Portable Glass Air Fryer Cooking System: design and features

  • Heat comes from removable Crispi PowerPod
  • Four cooking functions
  • Looks functional rather than attractive

The cleverly designed Ninja Crispi 4-in-1 Portable Glass Air Fryer Cooking System is a really a cooking pod, called the PowerPod, and a collection of glass cooking dishes. The cooking dishes, which Ninja calls TempWare Containers, withstand high cooking temperatures and are made just for the Ninja Crispi. You must use Ninja’s TempWare Containers; the PowerPod won’t work on other dishes. A built-in plastic piece adds handles and feet so you can place the dishes on any countertop. Each cooking dish comes with a metal crisper plate that nests inside and keeps the food off the bottom so air can circulate around it.

Ninja Crispi and dishes nested

(Image credit: Karen Freeman / Future)

Place your food into one of the glass dishes on the crisper plate and place the pod on top. The PowerPod fits the small six-cup dish perfectly on its own. If you’re using the larger four-quart dish, you’ll need to use the included adapter for the PowerPod. Choose your cooking function mode: Recrisp (380°-400°F), Bake (375°-400°F), Air Fry (400°-425F), or Max Crisp (425°-450°). Select your cook time by pressing the - or + buttons. Press the start button to begin.

As with most air fryers, you will usually need to flip your food over halfway through the cook time. To pause cooking, simply remove the PowerPod and it will power off automatically. To re-start cooking, place the pod back onto the glass container and hit the start button once again.

Ninja Crispi controls

(Image credit: Karen Freeman / Future)

The standard bundle comes with the largest glass dish, which has a four quart capacity, and the smallest one, which holds six cups. Ninja also makes a medium 2.5-quart glass dish, which is sold separately. Any of the glass dishes can be purchased separately, and there are different bundles you can buy with varying dish combinations. The handles and feet allow you to use the dishes for serving the food; there’s no need to transfer it to another container. All of the cooking dishes also come with an air-tight lid, so you can use the dishes for storing food as well.

Cleaning the Ninja Crispi is easy. You don’t need to clean the PowerPod, just the glass containers and crisper plates. They are even dishwasher safe, though it is easy enough to just wash them by hand. Though it’s not mentioned in the literature, I was able to use paper air fryer liners which made cleanup even easier.

  • Design score: 4.5/5

Ninja Crispi 4-in-1 Portable Glass Air Fryer Cooking System: performance

Though there are four cooking modes, the Ninja Crispi is truly an air fryer. The Air Fryer, Max Crisp, and Recrisp modes all worked pretty much as expected. The Bake mode, however, was a bit disappointing. I tried baking several items, all of which turned out fully browned on the top and raw in the middle. Since air frying in general requires flipping for even crisping, I’m not that surprised that the baking mode wasn’t great. I think baking would be fine for something quite thin, like cookies or very small mini muffins. If you want to make something thicker, like full-sized cupcakes, you’re better off using a regular oven. Of course, most people don’t buy air fryers in order to bake.

Ninja Crispi air frying vegetables

(Image credit: Karen Freeman / Future)

I eat a lot of fresh roasted vegetables, so I air fried broccoli, cauliflower, red peppers, brussels sprouts, and sweet potatoes. I used both Air Fry and Max Crisp modes. There is a learning curve, but once I got the hang of it, the veggies turned out delicious with just the barest spritz of oil. You definitely want to remember to flip your food, at least once during the cooking process. When I didn’t flip it, the food did not cook evenly. The Ninja Crispi is very, very fast. It’s a good idea to check your food frequently to make sure you don’t burn it. Even with careful flipping and checking, vegetables tend to brown (or blacken) quickly in some spots before all of them are fully cooked. Raw vegetables tended to come out more blackened and crisp rather than tender.

Ninja Crispi with air fried cauliflower and red peppers

(Image credit: Karen Freeman / Future)

My favorite vegetable cooked from its raw state was the diced sweet potatoes. They were crisp on the outside and soft in the middle. The next day I used the Recrisp mode to heat up the leftovers, which turned out great.

Ninja Crispi with air fried sweet potatoes

(Image credit: Karen Freeman / Future)

I made a bunch of veggie burgers, as well as protein waffles, veggie tots, falafel balls, and veggie “chicken” nuggets. They all turned out wonderful and crisp on the outside, tender on the inside. I didn’t need to add any oil to any of these convenience foods.

Ninja Crispi with air fried veggie burger, veggie tots, and red peppers

(Image credit: Karen Freeman / Future)

I hosted a Super Bowl party and air fried some frozen french fries for my guests. The fries disappeared so quickly, I ended up air frying another batch immediately! They were perfectly crisp and evenly browned on the outside and soft and fluffy in the middle. I did nothing to doctor them at all, no oil or seasonings, and they came out just right.

Ninja Crispi with air fried french fries

(Image credit: Karen Freeman / Future)

My family got in on the air frying fun. My youngest is a more adventurous cook than I, and they made some panko-crusted and seasoned tofu squares. The tofu was delicious! As expected, it was nice and crunchy on the outside and soft in the middle. They didn’t even have to press and dry the tofu first. I’m a vegetarian but my husband eats meat; he used the Ninja Crispi to quickly and easily cook some chicken breasts. They got nicely browned on the outside (flipping half-way through cook time is a must) and cooked all the way through.

Ninja Crispi with air fried tofu

(Image credit: Karen Freeman / Future)

As I mentioned above, I did try Bake mode. First, I made some pancake bites in a little silicone baking dish. The tops browned but the rest was still raw. I actually pulled off all the tops, flipped them over, and put them through another bake cycle. That worked fine. I also baked a (rather thick) protein air fryer cookie with the same results. I did the same thing where I pulled off the top, flipped it over, and put it through another cycle. Again, it was fine that way. So if you do use Bake mode, just be sure your items are very thin.

Ninja Crispi with air fried pancake bites

(Image credit: Karen Freeman / Future)
  • Performance score: 4/5

Should you buy the Ninja Crispi 4-in-1 Portable Glass Air Fryer Cooking System?

Buy it if

You want to minimize cleanup and hassle

Put your food in one specially designed glass dish. Then air fry, serve, and store your food without having to move it to another dish. You only have one dish to clean. Easy peasy!

You want multiple cooking modes

From low heat to high heat: Recrisp, Bake, Air Fry, and Max Crisp.

You want portability

You could easily keep the PowerPod at the office, for example, and just bring the glass container with your food inside ready to air fry each day.

Don't buy it if

You want something pretty to keep on your counter

The Ninja Crispi just looks functional. It has a lot of parts (stackable, but still) so you’ll need some storage space.

You want the cheapest possible no frills air fryer

There are certainly cheaper options out there.

You plan to do a lot of baking in your air fryer

If that’s the case, you might prefer a toaster oven-air fryer combo appliance instead.

Ninja Crispi: also consider

If you're not sure about the Ninja Crispi 4-in-1 Portable Glass Air Fryer Cooking System, here are some other options to consider...

Ninja Double Oven Air Fryer

Cook two different items two different ways at the same time in this two-compartment air fryer oven. This is a good pick if you want to bake and air fry with the same appliance, which is why it earned a place in our roundup of the best air fryers.

Read our full review here.

Russell Hobbs Satisfry Dual Basket Air Fryer

Just want a regular air fryer? This two-basket version does the job, twice, earning it the title “best budget air fryer” on our list of the best air fryers.

Check out our full review here.

How I tested the Ninja Crispi 4-in-1 Portable Glass Air Fryer Cooking System

  • I tested Recrisp, Bake, Air Fry, and Max Crisp modes multiple times
  • I used it daily for two weeks to cook a variety of food
  • I cleaned it after each use

Although I’m a foodie, I’m kind of a lazy cook. As a wife and mother of three, I used to put more effort into crafting a variety of nutritious meals from scratch when my kids were little. Now that they’re grown, I still want to eat healthy meals, I just don’t want to take the time to cook them. The Ninja Crispi certainly helps me get food on the table fast. My family (my husband, my adult child, and I) used the Ninja Crispi daily, sometimes multiple times in one day, for two weeks. We made loads of fresh veggies, plus veggie burgers, veggie chicken nuggets, french fries, frozen waffles, breaded tofu, falafel, veggie tots, chicken breasts, pancake bites, and a protein breakfast cookie. I cleaned it after each use, which was quite easy. I did use paper air fryer liners sometimes, which made cleanup even easier.

Read more about how we test.

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Ninja Crispi Portable Glass Air Fryer Cooking System on counter

(Image credit: Karen Freeman / Future)
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Ninja Crispi Portable Glass Air Fryer Cooking System on counter

(Image credit: Karen Freeman / Future)
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Ninja Crispi Portable Glass Air Fryer Cooking System on counter

(Image credit: Karen Freeman / Future)
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Ninja Crispi Portable Glass Air Fryer Cooking System on counter

(Image credit: Karen Freeman / Future)
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Ninja Crispi Portable Glass Air Fryer Cooking System on counter

(Image credit: Karen Freeman / Future)
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Ninja Crispi Portable Glass Air Fryer Cooking System on counter

(Image credit: Karen Freeman / Future)
This entry-level 3D printer performed so well in tests that it almost beat my favorite $1000+ machines
4:59 pm |

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

The Elegoo Centauri Carbon is one of the new wave of CoreXY fully enclosed machines that I've reviewed this year, although this one is aimed directly at the entry-level market. Elegoo already has a decent history with this level of printer, with their Neptune printers being some of the most reliable on the market—if not the most well-known.

The main reasons for making the switch from the traditional bed slinger to the CoreXY machines is that they ensure high speed and accurate prints, and it's nice to see a printer of this type and quality come from Elegoo.

After removing the printer from the box, it only took around 10 minutes to get it set up and started with the first print. What really impressed me was the fact that it was so easy to use. It actually compared really well against the new Creality and Anycubic machines and, again, was just extremely fast and ran through its various self-checks faster than those competing machines.

While an initial check through the specifications showed that this is a slower printer than the new Creality K2 Plus or the S1 from Anycubic, when it came to general print speeds away from the standard test models, the Centauri Carbon actually outpaced them.

As I've seen with many of the best 3D printers, there's a lot of self-checking that goes on, so the auto bed levelling, strain gauge system, and other fail-safes all help to avoid misprints. It's nice to see a printer of this type coming out with its own integrated camera as a standard part of the machine, rather than an optional extra—the main thing here is that it will also print Carbon fill straight from the box, again without any additions.

The enclosed design enables plenty of material support, and through the test, I used PLA, PETG, as well as TPU and carbon fill, just to give the printer a full run of materials. With more advanced materials, having that enclosed build area does help with print quality, and when it comes to materials such as PLA, you can always pop the top of the machine to increase airflow.

Overall, while there's nothing groundbreaking about the Centauri Carbon, other than the amount of printer that you get for the price. When it comes to build quality, design, and ease of use, I have to say I've been extremely impressed. Although it remains a closed system, as an out-of-the-box and easy-to-use solution, the Elegoo Centauri Carbon is just a really well-thought-out and solid machine.

Elegoo Centauri Carbon: Price and Availability

The Elegoo Centauri Carbon can be purchased directly from the official Elegoo website as well as through major online retailers.

US: $299.99
UK: £299.99
EU: €329.99
CA: $449.99

  • Price and Availability: 5/5

Elegoo Centauri Carbon: Design

Elegoo Centauri Carbon 3D Printer review

(Image credit: Alastair Jennings)

The first thing I noticed when I lifted the Centauri Carbon out of the box was just how heavy it was for such a relatively small machine. The reason for this is that it has a completely integrated chassis, which helps boost stability, and certainly, for a machine of this type, it feels really solid. That solid build is carried across the entire design of this 3D printer, and it all feels really high-quality, with reinforced aluminium alloy pillars and stainless steel side panels. They all add weight but, again, add to that rigidity, which is needed for a CoreXY machine.

Looking over the machine, the overall build is good and solid, with a high-quality glass door at the front and a touchscreen for easy navigation and control of the machine. One of the pitfalls of this type of machine is that a door or top needs to be removed or opened when printing filaments such as PLA, and that's certainly a case here—some of the latest machines have started to incorporate other manual or automatic vent systems. Considering the price, the build and design is very high, so to not featuring a vent at this level isn't an issue. For a machine of this type, the display is just about standard at 4.3 inches, offering a full-colour screen that is nice and bright and extremely responsive.

Inside, due to the design of the machine, everything is neatly packed away, so it looks like a really refined 3D printer. It would have been considered premium had it been released a year ago, but now it sits just at the upper end of the entry-level price point. From the outset, it just seems like superb value for money, considering the quality and the number of features that you get.

There's a lot here that is reminiscent of the old bed-slinger Cartesian printers, so we have the large 256 × 256 × 256 mm print area, and as standard, there is a flexible magnetic build plate. This enables easy model removal when needed.

Elegoo Centauri Carbon 3D Printer review

(Image credit: Alastair Jennings)

On the outside of the machine, you have your USB port so that you can transfer files offline to and from the machine, and the right-hand side of the machine features the filament holder, which is pretty standard and not enclosed. These days, it's more common to put your filament into a dry box of some type, and the design of this machine actually makes that next to impossible, so if a dry box is added, it will be an external module.

When it comes to the nozzle, there is a standard 0.4 mm option fitted by default, and as is now standard, this can be swapped and changed for a range of other diameter nozzles depending on the type of work you're doing. When it comes to the maximum temperature, this can reach up to 320°C—perfect for specialist materials—and there is plenty of flexibility over the adjustment of the temperature when needed. This is the Carbon model, so you guessed it, as standard out of the box, it's Carbon ready. Likewise, the bed temperature can also rise up to 110°C, again ideal for specialist materials.

  • Design: 4.5/5

Elegoo Centauri Carbon: Features

Elegoo Centauri Carbon 3D Printer review

(Image credit: Alastair Jennings)
Specs

Elegoo Centauri Carbon 3D Printer review

(Image credit: Alastair Jennings)

Build Volume: 256 × 256 × 256 mm
Nozzle Diameter: 0.4 mm (default)
Max Nozzle Temperature: 320°C
Max Bed Temperature: 110°C
Filament Compatibility: PLA, PETG, TPU, ABS, ASA, PLA-CF, etc.
Printing Speed: ≤500 mm/s
Acceleration: 20,000 mm/s²
Slicing Software: ELEGOO Slicer, supports third-party slicers
Connectivity: USB, Wi-Fi
Display: 4.3-inch full-color touch screen
Power: 1100 W @ 220 V, 350 W @ 110 V

This is Elegoo's first CoreXY motion machine, and if we look at the quality of their previous 3D printers, this first launch sets a pretty good standard when it comes to entry-level machines of this type for others to follow.

Starting out with the build area, at 256 × 256 × 256 mm, this is big all things considered and will give you plenty of flexibility over the type of model that you print. When it comes to the actual size and weight of this machine, it measures 398 × 404 × 490 mm, which again really isn't that large for a machine of this type and build area. When you compare that with the traditional bed slinger, it actually takes up a lot less space. However, when it comes to weight, these machines are in a different league compared with the older bed-slinging Cartesian models and has a weight of 17.5 kg. So, despite that relatively small footprint, with the strength and quality of the construction, the weight of this machine is far greater.

Just taking a quick run-through of the tool head, and it's fitted with a 0.4 mm nozzle diameter, and this can be swapped out and changed for others. It's heated by a 60 W heater, which is quite powerful, meaning that the hot end will heat up quickly. Inside the tool head there's that filament cutter, which helps to avoid filament clogs but also lends to the belief that this is going to be a multifilament machine in the not-too-distant future, and as standard, it takes 1.75 mm filament—so good standards all around.

The build plate is a double-sided flexible magnetic plate, which again is pretty standard, and it can reach temperatures up to 110°C. Along with the nozzle's maximum temperature and the enclosed design of the machine, that will enable plenty of flexibility over the type of materials that you print.

The CoreXY kinematics enable several advantages over the previous Cartesian design. Primarily, they are a lot faster and also more accurate. When it comes to speed, it has a maximum tool head speed of 500 mm/s, which is impressive, and a maximum tool head acceleration of 20 m/s²—again, exceptionally fast. But as I've come to realise, speed isn't everything, and whilst it might not match up to the likes of the Creality K2 Plus or the Anycubic S1 with those speeds, the speed at which it does its self-checks and heats the hot end could make all the difference.

As we've seen with the likes of the Bambu Lab P1P and many other machines on the market, cooling is as important to print quality as heating, and Elegoo has really tackled this with a high-speed 5020 cooling fan, an internal enclosure cooling system, and an auxiliary cooling fan—all to help with the efficient cooling of models as they're being printed. In addition to cooling, there is also a filtration system, so if you are using toxic filament such as ABS, then the built-in nano mineral crystals should help to reduce the odours and particles coming out of the machine.

One of the touches that I really like is the built-in camera, which enables timelapse recording as well as monitoring. While this is possible on most modern machines, it isn't always the case that the camera is included as a standard part when you buy the kit, so it's great to see that it's standard for the Elegoo Centauri Carbon.

  • Features: 4.5/5

Elegoo Centauri Carbon: Performance

Elegoo Centauri Carbon 3D Printer review

(Image credit: Alastair Jennings)

Setting up the Elegoo Centauri Carbon took me around 10 minutes, with the most effort being lifting the 3D printer out of the box. The reason for this was that, while it looked small, it was actually surprisingly heavy, and I wasn't quite prepared for that weight. At 17.5 kg, it is about average for a CoreXY machine, but with its slightly smaller footprint than most, it was still a bit of a surprise.

Placing the printer onto a work surface, and it all looks extremely neat with assembly essentially consisting of plugging in the small LCD and removing all the packaging.

Switching it on, the printer ran through its setup process and auto-levelling, with all checks running through relatively quickly and smoothly. Feeding in the filament and following the load instructions, and all was complete.

Starting out, I ran a few of the test prints from Elegoo, and the machine quickly proved just how efficient and fast it could be. While this isn't the fastest 3D printer on paper, when it actually came to use, it seemed to be incredibly quick. Using the example 3DBenchy, it produced this in a little over 15 minutes, and to be honest, the quality of that print was really good.

As the test went on and I produced more prints, I became increasingly impressed with the precision and speed that the Elegoo Centauri Carbon was capable of when printing with a variety of different materials. One thing that really struck me was that, because of its size and quality of the physical machine's construction, there was very little vibration. Although it caused a little bit more noise than some, the speed at which it printed and the consistency and reliability it was capable of were really impressive.

Again, when it came to checking over those prints for print quality, there was little to fault. The test models showed that it handled negative space, overhangs, bridging, and dimensional accuracy exceedingly well.

Elegoo Centauri Carbon 3D Printer review

(Image credit: Alastair Jennings)

This is the fourth 3D printer that I have looked at in as many weeks that shows complete separation between the older Cartesian printers that I was reviewing a year ago and this new wave of CoreXY machines. The main thing here is that the Elegoo Centauri Carbon is far cheaper than many of its rivals.

When reviewing this machine, you can't help but make comparisons with the Bambu Lab X1 Carbon, which sits side by side with it on the workbench. The Elegoo Carbon actually takes the lead, mainly due to the time it takes to do its safety checks and the speed at which the nozzle gets up to temperature. Otherwise, when it comes to actual print quality, both are actually very similar. I would say that while they compete, the X1 Carbon is still a more premium machine and, in the long run, is the better machine, but considering the price of the Centauri Carbon, it gives the X1 Carbon a run for it's money.

  • Performance: 4.5 / 5

Elegoo Centauri Carbon: Final verdict

Elegoo Centauri Carbon 3D Printer review

(Image credit: Alastair Jennings)

It's incredible how far things can come in a year, with the Elegoo Centauri Carbon really being a competitor against the far more expensive Bambu Lab X1 Carbon. The print size is exactly the same, but with the Elegoo Centauri Carbon, you have those faster speeds due to the fact that the nozzle gets up to temperature really quickly, spends less time doing safety checks, and, ultimately—no doubt due to the rigid, high-quality build—it seems to be incredibly reliable.

The more I used the Centauri Carbon, the more I could see how this design has developed. What Elegoo has done is focus on the quality of the print and the hardware of the machine to ensure that it's able to compete in an increasingly competitive and advanced market.

I recently looked at the Anycubic S1, and that machine was capable of producing some of the most accurate prints that I've ever seen from a 3D printer of its type and price range. While printing some specialist materials, the S1 does require a nozzle upgrade. The Elegoo Centauri Carbon, however, comes ready and equipped to print with carbon fibre materials straight out of the box, and there is no other machine at present in this price range that can do that.

Its main competitor is really the Bambu Lab X1 Carbon, but with that model costing over £1,000, there's a huge difference in price. So if you are looking to print with carbon fibre materials, whereas a few weeks ago I would have recommended the Bambu Lab X1 Carbon without a doubt, now you're spoilt for choice with the X1 Carbon, Original PRUSA Core One or now this ultra-cheap entry-level Elegoo Centauri Carbon.

Should you buy the Elegoo Centauri Carbon?

Buy it if...

You want an outstanding printer

This smallish CoreXY machine pitches itself at a level that is well beyond it's price point. The build is outstanding, and the quality of prints and speed absolutely excels.

You want outstanding prints

While speed is the core of these new machines, dial down the pace and the print quality, utilising a huge variety of prints, including carbon, is outstanding.

Don't buy it if...

You need multifilament now

Although it looks like eveything is in place for multifilament printing, at launch this is a single filament machine.

You want to print at scale

While the build area is pretty good, there are plenty of machines that are now offering 300mmx300mmx300mm build areas.


For more 3D printing devices, I've also tested and reviewed the best 3D printers for miniatures and the best hobby 3D printers.

Attention software devs – BenQ has created this business monitor specifically for you
10:48 am |

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

As a company, BenQ has been heading up and to the right for years. They crushed it with the monitor light bar and showed they could also dominate the monitor market. Then, they made dedicated monitor line-ups, some for coding, some for business, and some that are just great monitors for the masses.

The BenQ RD320UA is just a continuation of that greatness, but not in a boring way. In my humble opinion, it is in the running for the best monitor for programming on the market. But what makes this so incredible is that though it's a "coding monitor," I'd be thrilled to use it as a business monitor and never show a line of code. It's that good.

Granted, it's not the best monitor for photo editing and definitely not the best video editing monitor either. Most likely, though it would be good, it's not built for that. Nor is this built for gaming due to the 60Hz limitation. But, outside of creative or high graphical intensity needs, this monitor is incredible.

It has outstanding IO, a built-in KVM, a built-in backlight to help with eye strain, and specialized coding modes to help with eye training and clarity of code, helping supercharge your coding sessions without needing anything but this great monitor.

BenQ RD320UA: Price and Availability

Depending on the reseller or retailer, this monitor ranges from $650 to $700. It is more premium, but it's for a good reason. You can buy this monitor without needing or even wanting an upgrade for quite some time. Plus, its build quality and feature set are tremendous benefits.

If you're a programmer with multiple computers, perhaps personal and work, now with this monitor, you won't need a KVM. Plus, if you're a programmer and work at night or in the dark, with the RD320UA, you won't need a backlight as this will help illuminate behind the monitor, helping with strain. Lastly, it has an ergo arm built in, meaning you don't need a separate monitor arm.

You can purchase this monitor from BenQ's website, Amazon, and other retailers.

BenQ RD320UA

(Image credit: Collin Probst // Future)

BenQ RD320UA: Unboxing and First Impressions

The box for this monitor was shockingly thick, but then I remembered I got the model with the Ergo arm, which made more sense with how dense it was. The box all together was packaged fairly efficiently and had two main layers. The first layer had all the cables, documentation, and the ergo arm pieces. The bottom layer housed the panel itself.

The Ergo arm was super easy to set up, with a simple rubber-enforced twist clamp that I threw on the edge of my desk and then tightened down. There were no extra steps to assemble anything, grab and go. Then, I added the ergo arm piece that connects to the mount and the mounting piece that connects to the monitor itself.

BenQ RD320UA

(Image credit: Collin Probst // Future)

The power cable easily tucked away into the cable management that's built into the Ergo Arm, but the USB-C that came with the monitor was a tad short for what I was wanting, so I left that out for now so I could plug my MacBook Pro into the front of the monitor and get a stacked setup working.

The first moment I plugged into this monitor, I was blown away by the Nano Matte panel's clarity and beauty. The clarity is remarkable, and the lack of glare is also huge.

Thanks to the ergo arm, I could position the monitor exactly how I wanted it to and get to work with incredible flexibility and ability. The Ergo arm didn't feel weak, but rather, it was high-quality and firm.

BenQ RD320UA

(Image credit: Collin Probst // Future)

BenQ RD320UA: Design and Build Quality

Specs

Screen Size: 31.5 inches
Resolution: 4K (3840 x 2160)
Panel Type: Nano Matte
Refresh Rate: 60Hz
Connectivity: USB Type-C, HDMI, DisplayPort
Ergonomics: Adjustable Ergo Arm (height, tilt, swivel)

This monitor all around is a classic BenQ monitor. It's high quality, sleek, gorgeous, and has excellent ports. The monitor is made with premium materials. The Ergonomic arm is a fantastic feature that I wish more monitors included. BenQ's ergo arm is excellent all around. I hope it was longer on the top arm, but that could be me used to a full-blown, dedicated monitor arm I've used for years.

The Ergo arm on this BenQ display allows easy pivoting and rotation, enabling you to switch the monitor to portrait mode effortlessly. It also offers height adjustment, panning, tilting, and movement to the left and right. This feature is quite impressive. The core of the Ergo arm allows for twisting, providing maximum mobility.

The entire monitor is impressive, but the standout feature must be the built-in MoonHalo light ring in the back's mounting area. Surrounding the circular disc mounting plate is an entire LED light strip with a diffuser integrated into the monitor. This light can be easily turned on and off, offering complete temperature control. Additionally, built-in quick buttons allow you to display the light strip on the top and sides or for a full 360-degree effect.

What's particularly convenient is that this can be controlled through the complementary DisplayPilot 2 app, enabling you to make adjustments without reaching behind the monitor, asking Google to turn on the light strip, or fumbling with your phone to hit a button in another app. Everything can be managed directly from your mouse and keyboard through your computer. If the goal for usability is a frictionless experience, sign me up for DisplayPilot 2 because that app could not be more straightforward to use, and the fact that it can now help me turn on bright lights in my monitor, too, is just incredible.

BenQ RD320UA

(Image credit: Collin Probst // Future)

BenQ RD320UA: In use

When I got this monitor, I was thrilled to set it up. Because I am testing other accessories on my main monitor setup, I threw this display on my secondary desk setup in my studio. I hoped to get a reasonable amount of time with this monitor, but I did not expect to be drawn to this display even when my main display is also a newer BenQ and is gorgeous.

The Nano Matte Panel enhances everything on display, and even in a room that doesn't have a ton of reflections or bright light glares or anything like that, I find my eyes feel like they are resting when looking at this display. They can lock in on what I am doing so quickly.

While I am not a professional engineer and work in code all day, I do have a few scripts I run weekly to do some back-end work for one of the companies I support. I was skeptical of the "coding mode" on this display, but I can say that it made a difference with readability. I wouldn't know that having this coding mode viewing option is an absolute must if you work with code, but if I did work with code daily, I would turn this feature on if I had it. So take that as you will.

BenQ RD320UA

(Image credit: Collin Probst // Future)

The MoonHalo was super easy to play with and utilize. I love having lights behind my monitor, but nothing too crazy. Since I am still rocking the original BenQ Halo Plus lightbar (that still uses USB-A and Micro-USB, along with a wired puck if that gives any indication of age) at my main desk setup, I moved my desk to be in front of some Govee Glide Hexa Pro light panels that I had already set up on a wall. Now, I keep these on a warm glow, paired with a lamp from Vari on a set of drawers from Vari, and my desk has one LED light strip I keep on cooler white for a nice contrast.

BenQ RD320UA

(Image credit: Collin Probst // Future)

With the RD320UA, I'd be able to and would desire to negate the Govee panels and one of the lamps; I'd use the backlight and add a monitor light bar, and my whole setup would be ready to go lighting-wise. The MoonHalo makes it super easy to reduce eye strain at night by adding some backlight so the contrast isn't so intense, and it has an auto mode, so you don't even have to think about it. In addition to helping with your eyes, having the backlight turned on makes the whole area feel more elevated without needing extra accessories.

BenQ RD320UA

(Image credit: Collin Probst // Future)

One remarkable feature of this monitor is its built-in KVM switch, which makes it incredibly easy to switch between devices. I use several devices throughout the day, though most would probably have a work and personal computer. This monitor can connect to two devices, and with the press of a button, it allows you to swap your USB-connected keyboard and mouse (or use a Bluetooth receiver/dongle) from one computer to another, all while displaying the new computer on the screen. KVM stands for Keyboard, Video, and Mouse, and that's exactly what this function switches. Usually, if I have needed something like this in the past, I use a Logitech Keyboard and mouse that have multiple connections and then manually switch the input, but with the KVM built-in, I can now do this without any friction.

BenQ RD320UA

(Image credit: Collin Probst // Future)

BenQ RD320UA: Final verdict

The BenQ RD320UA offers a compelling package for software developers, engineers, or business professionals in general, prioritizing eye comfort, screen clarity, and ergonomic design. While it isn't designed for gaming or streaming, its coding-focused features justify the premium price for professionals who code extensively.


For more dev tools, we reviewed the best laptops for programming.

I reviewed this high-performance office chair and it’s not just comfortable, it’s especially good for bigger and taller users
9:57 pm | February 16, 2025

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

The Flexispot C7 Pro Max ergonomic Office Chair continues the C7 legacy of chairs that has performed very well in the last few years. I've tried out the C7 and the C7 Lite; both have been excellent chairs.

Like many of the best office chairs from the company, the C7 Pro Max is designed to showcase the best of what Flexispot offers within not only this C7 line-up but also its entire catalog.

Flexispot C7 Pro Max: Price and Availability

The C7 Pro Max is Flexispot's most premium chair, priced at $799.99, but it is currently discounted at the time of writing this down to $599.99 on official website (check it out by clicking here). The C7 Pro Max comes in a light grey or a black colorway, with a matching seat color.

While you may be able to find this chair through some other retailers, it's worth noting that Flexispot runs deals fairly regularly on their site, making the products even more accessible.

Flexispot C7 Pro Max

(Image credit: Collin Probst // Future)

Flexispot C7 Pro Max: Unboxing and First Impressions

The C7 Pro Max came in a box like the other Flexispot chairs I reviewed. The packaging keeps everything secure, yet it's easy to unbox. Assembling the C7 Pro Max took around 27 minutes and was straightforward. The instructions were clear, the parts were easy to find and distinguish, and everything went together quickly.

At first glance, this chair looks a lot like the Flexispot C7 and Flexispot C7 Lite that I have previously checked out. It has a similar shape; you can tell it's part of the same design language. However, some things stick out as upgraded. First, the lovely design on the back "spine" of the chair, the controls are slightly modified, the leg rest is slightly changed, and the lumbar support is somewhat different. The rest looks very similar, just making the changes needed and learning from the success of the C7 Ergonomic Chair. What's great, and what matters, is that this chair is still fantastic; it's comfortable, it's premium feeling, it's sleek and professional, and it's great for all-day comfort.

Flexispot C7 Pro Max

(Image credit: Collin Probst // Future)

Flexispot C7 Pro Max: Design and Build Quality

Specs

Weight capacity: 330 lbs.
Height range: Recommended for users 5’9” to 6’11”.
Recline angle: Adjustable to 135 degrees.
Base: Aluminum alloy for durability.
Warranty: 10 years.

The Flexispot C7 Pro Max is constructed with a high-quality mesh seat that allows both support and comfort, all while allowing for ventilation for those who get a little warm in their posterior during the day if they are sitting in a leather seat, for example, that doesn't breathe. The most prominent feature of this chair is the dramatic lumbar support. While this feature is aggressive-looking, it's comfortable. I could dial in just how much resistance I wanted, and once I could pick that amount, I hadn't touched it since.

The last element worth mentioning is the metal base. Some chairs have a plastic base where the wheels connect to the piston that holds the chair up (and usually changes the chair's height too). However, the C7 Pro Max has a metal base, which adds to the frame's comfort and quality build design.

Flexispot C7 Pro Max: In use

The Flexispot C7 Pro Max has been a fantastic chair in my rotation for several months. In that time, I've gotten comfortable dialing in every setting just as I want for maximum comfort while working. While having a lot of adjustability is excellent, you do have to spend the time to set it up; otherwise, there's no point in choosing a nice ergonomic chair compared to a simple, no-adjustment dining chair, for example.

The C7 Pro Max has a gravity-sensing chassis that auto-adjusts based on weight, though this works better for those that 200lb plus, or perhaps it's just more noticeable. I've had friends and peers of many weights and heights check out this chair to see how well it worked for everyone. For those under 200 and under 6 feet tall, this is comfortable and even good. But this is an excellent chair from my little testing group for those a bit bigger and a bit taller. Even my son loves it.

The only issue is that he's five-years-old and skin and bones, meaning he doesn't come anywhere close to even the minimal weight suggestion from Flexispot, nor the height range -- though he does still love running down to my office to jump in this chair pretty much every chance he gets. For reference, I am about 6'2" tall and 210lb. For me, this chair feels great, and like it's designed for me in mind. I had a friend who is around 280lb and 6'4" sit in this chair and his immediate response was to exhale and smile -- in a good way.

Flexispot C7 Pro Max

(Image credit: Collin Probst // Future)

The backrest is great; the armrests are stiff enough that I don't find myself falling to my doom after leaning on them and having them give out on me like has happened on other chairs. But, at the same time, I can adjust them to whatever setting I want to give me the armrest relief I am looking for. The leg rest is nice, too, though I feel like I need to lean back actively or adjust my legs just right to lean back while my legs are up too, that could be my build. Someone built differently than me may experience different proportions, making leaning back with the footrest easier.

For the past several months, this has been a great chair; through all my stress testing, early mornings, and long hours in this chair, It still looks as good as new and functions as though it's brand new. If you're looking for a new, high-quality office chair without paying the ultra-premium pricing of some of these chairs, the C7 Pro Max might be the chair you're looking for.

Flexispot C7 Pro Max

(Image credit: Collin Probst // Future)

Flexispot C7 Pro Max: Final verdict

The FlexiSpot C7 Pro Max is a remarkable ergonomic chair designed for users who prioritize comfort and adjustability. While the price tag might be on the higher side, the build quality and extensive features make this a fantastic option, especially if you are taller and a bit bigger. This chair is an excellent representation of what makes the C7 line-up a great choice from Flexispot.


For more office space essentials, we tested the best standing desks and best office desks.

This might just be one of my favorite everyday chairs for every workspace I’ve ever reviewed
7:54 pm |

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

It's not any secret that I have tested many, many, many chairs. I rotate through them like some people rotate through socks. It's thrilling, and sometimes chairs rotate through, and I can't distinguish them from one another. Some stick around, some rotate through and get swapped out with the newest and shiniest chair that I need to put to the test.

The Autonomous line of Ergonomic chairs break that mold for me. Back in July of 2023, I reviewed the A72 ErgoChair Pro, and since that review, I have had this chair at one of my workstations exclusively. I can work in several workspaces throughout the week without wasting time diving into them. At one of these spaces, I have a desk setup that the A72 has lived at for a year and a half now, amidst all of the other fantastic chairs coming in and out that I have loved (most of them). There is something about the A72 ErgoChair Pro that became a baseline for me. Everyone of the best office chairs I reviewed was compared to that one for my chair at that desk. It became such a good base that I realized it was a good chair. I didn't see a chair surpassing or replacing it until I unboxed the Autonomous ErgoChair Mesh, which seems to be a perfected ErgoChair Pro at first glance.

Autonomous ErgoChair Mesh: Price and Availability

The Autonomous ErgoChair Mesh has two purchasing options. First, if you are "Buying for the Home," the price is $599, discounted to $549 for a limited time. However, if you are "Buying for the Office" or in bulk, you can grab a nice quantity discount of $507.82 per unit. You can grab the ErgoChair Mesh from the Autonomous website by clicking here and other select retailers.

Autonomous ErgoChair Mesh

(Image credit: Collin Probst // Future)

Autonomous ErgoChair Mesh: Unboxing and First Impressions

The Autonomous ErgoChair Mesh arrives in a well-packaged box, ensuring that all parts are protected during shipping. There are clear labels and organized parts once unboxing, making the assembly process a dream. It took me about 22 minutes with a HOTO Electric screwdriver to put everything together correctly.

I immediately noticed that this chair resembles my favorite A72 ErgoChair Pro from my office. This model is an upgrade, enhancing some features while maintaining others that I love.

Autonomous ErgoChair Mesh

(Image credit: Collin Probst // Future)

Autonomous ErgoChair Mesh: Design and Build Quality

Specs

Materials: Ultra Air Mesh
Color Options: Black and gray.
Weight Capacity: Supports up to 300 lbs (136 kg).
Dimensions:
• Seat Height: 18–21 inches (adjustable).
• Seat Width: 20 inches.
• Backrest Height: 22 inches.
Warranty: 2 years.

The Autonomous ErgoChair Mesh is a very sleek and minimalist chair offered in the two most basic colors possible, and only those colors -- black and grey. This makes everything a lot easier on the warehouse side of things and is a premium choice, showing that there are only professional colorways.

The lightweight frame is robust and durable, leaving plenty of room to let air flow through the mesh seat.

This mesh seat is designed to keep you comfortable, even if you sweat during the workday. Those of us who run warm throughout the day appreciate such a design.

Autonomous ErgoChair Mesh: In use

The Autonomous ErgoChair Mesh has lived up to the hype. By this point, you've heard me ramble on about how great it is; it's an upgrade to a chair that even someone like me, who has access to many chairs, has held onto for two years. So, I won't go into the Ultra Air Mesh micro-mesh fabric that enhances airflow and prevents sticky discomfort for those with a lot of moisture that collects in the posterior region of the body. Nor will I dive into the nine adjustment points, including recline angle, seat height, armrest positions, lumbar cushions and more. Lastly, it's not worth diving into the fascinating and one-of-a-kind 2:1 synchro-tilt mechanism that ensures balanced support between the back and seat, ultimately focusing on reducing strain to the lower body with the integrated lumbar.

This chair is excellent. It has just enough bells and whistles to keep those with a squirrel-like attention span when it comes to flashy new gear while not being so complex that you need a manual to sit down, only to feel like you're in a complex chair that rivals an F1 Jet. The backrest is like nothing I have experienced before. I can lean back along with my seat leaning back, which provides support I never knew I needed until I felt it for the first time. Additionally, the seat on the ErgoChair Mesh is wildly supportive while not adding any pressure points to my body. I can sit in this chair for 9 hours plus (and sadly, I have tested this theory). Part of this is because of all of the adjustment features; part of this is because of how fine-tuned you can make these adjustments. Some chairs have a tight or loose adjustment for the back tension. For this chair, for example, I can rotate a little wheel, much like the crank of an old car window when you have to roll it up or down, to fine-tune just how I want my backrest to be.

Autonomous ErgoChair Mesh

(Image credit: Collin Probst // Future)

Autonomous ErgoChair Mesh: Final verdict

The Autonomous ErgoChair Mesh is a thoughtfully designed ergonomic chair that excels in performance, comfort, and style. While it comes at a premium price, its features justify the investment for those prioritizing quality and health. If you’re seeking a chair to enhance your work-from-home or office setup, this could be your next upgrade.


Make your workspace more comfortable with the best standing desks and best office desks we've reviewed.

I tested the Lexar NM790 with Heatsink for a month, and it’s easily the best value PS5 SSD right now
4:00 pm |

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

Lexar NM790 with Heatsink: One-minute review

The Lexar NM790 with Heatsink is one of the best SSDs for PS5 in its price range. Its 4TB variant in particular is significantly cheaper than the competition, especially when it goes on sale. It also scores well in the internal PS5 benchmark, even beating pricey licensed alternatives like the WD Black SN850P and Seagate Game Drive M.2 SSD for PS5.

If your number one priority is getting a high-capacity option with solid performance at the lowest possible cost, then the Lexar NM790 with Heatsink is the clear winner. That said, there are some significant drawbacks that arise with that reduced price tag. The most important is that this is a dynamic random access memory (DRAM)-less model that uses host memory buffer (HMB) technology, something that you would expect from budget PC SSDs rather than ones made with consoles in mind.

The PS5 does not support HMB and Sony even recommends against fitting HMB drives. This is because it leads to somewhat uneven performance, which is noticeable when you’re copying particularly large files. It can also cause issues in games, though these are far from a complete dealbreaker as the vast majority of titles that I tested ran flawlessly, even the likes of Call of Duty: Black Ops 6.

There was some stuttering in Marvel’s Spider-Man 2, however, namely in a handful of cinematic moments where scenery changed quickly. Assassin's Creed Valhalla also had the odd hitch, though nothing that rendered either title unplayable or even really spoiled the experience.

The heatsink grooves of the Lexar NM790 with Heatsink.

(Image credit: Future)

Lexar NM790 with Heatsink: Price and availability

  • 1TB is $94.99 / £74.99
  • 2TB is $159.99 / £129.99
  • 4TB is $269.99 / £233

Unlike the seriously overpriced Lexar Play 2280, the Lexar NM790 with Heatsink comfortably undercuts the competition at its going rates. It's available at Amazon, where the 1TB model will set you back $94.99 / £74.99 - $30 / £25 less than the WD Black SN850X.

The price of the 2TB varies depending on its stock level but is most often found at $159.99 / £129.99 which is a very fair price for what you’re getting. The best value option, however, is the 4TB version which comes in at $269.99 / £233 and has been on sale for as little as $234.95 / £229.49 in the past twelve months.

This drive seems extremely popular, however, so prices do fluctuate week to week. The 4TB model, for example, is currently only available for the absurdly high asking price of $338.92 through a third-party Amazon seller in the US - so avoid purchasing one unless you can find it for around the above figures.

Lexar NM790 with Heatsink: Specs

Lexar Play 2280: Design and features

  • Looks and feels premium
  • Sold with and without a heatsink
  • HMB model, so lacks DRAM

The Lexar NM790 with Heatsink has a plain overall design. It comes with a chunky black heatsink fitted out of the box, with some small grooves to give it some texture on the top. Despite its large size, it fits absolutely perfectly in a PS5 or PS5 Slim. Even though this is a more budget-oriented product, nothing about its look or feel seems particularly cheap either.

It comes well-packaged in a compact cardboard box and small plastic tray, which is easy to open and should provide a good level of protection on the move. On the box, you will find instructions on how to access more production information, in addition to warranty or return details, via the Lexar website.

The most notable feature of this drive is the fact it is an HMB model. As I explained above, this means that the drive does not have any DRAM - a small bit of separate memory used to store mapping information. This, in essence, tells your system where to find specific data quickly, improving performance and longevity. With HMB, the host device is meant to be responsible for this function.

This is not the case with the PS5 though, which does not support HMB drives. Sony states that such drives “may experience slower-than-expected performance because the PS5 console does not support HMB”. Even so, HMD models are generally significantly cheaper than those with DRAM and will still function when fitted to a PS5 - so make for solid budget picks.

The rear of the Lexar NM790 with Heatsink.

(Image credit: Future)

Lexar NM790 with Heatsink: Performance

  • Impressive PS5 benchmark score
  • Performs well copying games
  • But very occasionally stutters while playing

The Lexar NM790 with Heatsink delivers admirable performance on the whole, but it's far from consistent.

To give one example, copying a 67.25GB installation of Dishonored 2 to drive from the internal storage took just 22 seconds - while a smaller 59.22GB installation of Warhammer 40,000: Space Marine was fully playable in 26 seconds, four seconds more. This wouldn't be noticeable in general use but does demonstrate some of the spottier moments associated with HMB drives on PS5.

The largest file I tested, 101.9GB of Far Cry 6, took just 44 seconds to copy to the SSD, while the 80.7GB Remnant 2 took 34 seconds - all good results. Smaller games also copied smoothly and quickly, with a 24.22GB copy of Lego Star Wars: The Force Awakens and 12.93GB installation of Lollipop Chainsaw RePop accomplished in 13 seconds and 6 seconds respectively. A relatively tiny file like the 2.72GB Slime Rancher 2 was then copied in only 2 seconds.

Similarly, good figures were observed copying from the drive back to the internal storage, with Far Cry 6 taking 6 minutes 51 seconds and Remnant 2 5 minutes and 24 seconds. Lego Star Wars: The Force Awakens took just 1 minute and 42 seconds, which is broadly in line with the times for similarly sized games on the more expensive WD Black SN850P. Just bear in mind that these figures are mainly due to the PS5’s internal write speed more than the SSD itself.

The drive also scored impressively well on the PS5’s internal benchmark, clocking in at 6,526MB/s. That’s significantly higher than the WD Black SN850P, just above the Seagate Game Drive M.2 SSD for PS5, and close to the numbers achieved by the seriously pricey Samsung 990 Pro - excellent on the whole.

That said, things aren’t entirely perfect when you dive into games stored on the drive. The vast majority of titles that I tested were completely fine, but there were two exceptions. Exploring the world of Assassin’s Creed Valhalla, I noticed the occasional framerate hitch which was entirely absent when playing on internal storage. Likewise, moments with lots of rapid changes in scenery in Marvel’s Spider-Man 2 (like the bombastic final boss fight) suffered from a few stutters - almost as though the drive was unable to load in assets quickly enough.

In the grand scheme of things, these are very minor problems and in my book are worth the cost savings represented by the Lexar NM790 with Heatsink - but it does mean that if you want a completely flawless experience across the board, you should look elsewhere.

The Lexar logo on the Lexar NM790 with Heatsink.

(Image credit: Future)

Should I buy the Lexar NM790 with Heatsink?

Buy it if...

You want a cheap high-capacity drive
If you want a decent 4TB PS5 SSD for the lowest possible price, then the Lexar NM790 with Heatsink is a solid contender. It’s not perfect, but it’s hard to complain much when it costs such a relatively low amount.

You want a model with a quality built-in heatsink
I did not experience any noticeable thermal throttling throughout my testing of the Lexar NM790 with Heatsink, no matter what kind of intensive load I threw at it suggesting that its chunky heatsink is very effective.

Don't buy it if...

You want flawless performance
You won’t run into problems in most games, but some particularly demanding titles can push this HMB drive to its limits. If you want truly flawless performance, spend more for a model with DRAM.

Also consider...

If you want to weigh up the Lexar Play 2280 against some other options, here are two great alternatives.

Seagate Game Drive M.2 SSD for PS5
This officially licensed drive from Seagate is a great alternative if you’re shopping for a 1TB or 2TB model. It performs much more consistently, with no noticeable negative effects on your games.

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

Samsung 990 Pro
The Samsung 990 Pro is the cream of the crop, a premium SSD with an effective heatsink that boasts blisteringly high speeds. It's a fantastic performer and much more consistent than the Lexar NM790 with Heatsink but doesn’t come cheap.

For more information, check out our full Samsung 990 Pro review

The Lexar NM790 with Heatsink upside down on a desk.

(Image credit: Future)

How I tested the Lexar NM790 with Heatsink

  • Tested for over a month
  • Tried with a wide range of games
  • Compared to other SSD models

I tested the Lexar NM790 with Heatsink for over a month, using it as my primary PS5 SSD at home. During that time I played a wide variety of games, including plenty of Call of Duty: Black Ops 6, Kingdom Come: Deliverance 2, Assassin’s Creed Valhalla, Dragon Age: The Veilguard, Doom Eternal, Sniper Elite: Resistance, and much more.

Throughout the testing period, I was careful to assess the performance of the drive in each game, in addition to a variety of copy tests, and compared my experience with hands-on testing of other models like the WD Black SN850P, Lexar Play 2280, Samsung 990 Pro, and Seagate Game Drive M.2 SSD for PS5.

Read more about how we test

First reviewed February 2025

The EcoFlow Delta Plus 3 might just be the next generation of portable power for me
9:57 pm | February 15, 2025

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

The EcoFlow Delta 3 Plus builds on the success of the Delta 2, featuring the latest LiFePO4 battery technology for enhanced durability, safety, and performance. This portable power station is designed for users seeking a versatile power solution for various scenarios. While it excels as an all-around device, significant upgrades in design, an excellent array of ports, and an ideal size for portability make this model stand out.

Having spent considerable time working with the best portable power stations, the Delta 3 Plus is nearly perfect for most users' needs. Although it's not large enough to comfortably power an entire house—something EcoFlow does offer with larger models designed for whole-home backup systems—it's intended for easy transport, or dare I say, to be portable. It's perfect for camping, use at a cabin, providing power around a warehouse, enhancing a work truck's capabilities by adding outlets and power, working as your primary power solution for living or working out of a vehicle, and converting solar energy into usable power, among other applications.

EcoFlow Delta 3 Plus: Price and Availability

EcoFlow offers the Delta 3 Plus for $799 on their site, but it is currently on sale at the time of writing this for $649, making it an even better deal. While this price gets you a Delta 3 Plus, you could also pick up accessories to expand the capabilities of the power station, such as extra batteries, solar panels, a dual-fuel smart generator, alternator chargers, and more.

EcoFlow Delta 3 Plus

(Image credit: Collin Probst // Future)

EcoFlow Delta 3 Plus: Unboxing and First Impressions

The EcoFlow Delta 3 Plus came in a simple box with the essential cables to recharge via AC and DC. Unboxing was incredibly easy; I just pulled the power station and cables out of the box and was good to go. Right away, I remember smiling when I saw the size and port offering, knowing that this was the perfect size for most. Even the design is sleek, modern, and super simple -- in the best way. This power station can easily blend in and fit in most situations, and I have found plenty of scenarios to use this. Thanks to the port layout, the dual handles, and the shape of this unit, I have been able to fit the Delta 3 Plus into many workflows and scenarios without needing to change how I do things -- but more on that later.

EcoFlow Delta 3 Plus

(Image credit: Collin Probst // Future)

EcoFlow Delta 3 Plus: Design and Build Quality

Specs

Capacity: 1024Wh
Cycle Life: 4000 cycles to 80%
Outputs: 6 AC (1800W continuous, 3600W surge), 2 USB-C, 2 USB-A, 1 car port, and 2 DC5521 ports
Charging Options: AC (1500W), solar (500W), car (800W), or smart generator.

The EcoFlow Delta 3 Plus has a sturdy plastic casing around the IP65-Rated battery. There are integrated cooling systems that ensure optimal performance even when I put a lot of strain on this power station. Additionally, the LED display helps provide clear metrics crucial for performance. This shows battery level, output levels, time left under the current load, etc. This information is also readily displayed on the app; you can connect to it via Bluetooth or Wi-Fi.

EcoFlow Delta 3 Plus: In use

I've had quite a bit of fun testing this all around my office, in my Jeep, on the road, in the yard, and the workplace. First of all, it's worth noting that in addition to being a great power station, this is also a seamless UPS with a 10ms switchover time, meaning it can be relied on for even critical devices that cannot lose power or have any downtime. With this in mind, I tested it a few times and simulated my power outage. My router could stay powered on without any blips, the same as my modem, computer, monitor, lights, and anything else I had plugged into it.

I recently built a giant playhouse/swingset in my backyard with my father. We had to keep drill batteries charged to swap to new ones during this time. With the Delta 3 Plus, I could have power out at the job site without running a crazy long extension cord from my house.

Another area I have been using the Delta 3 Plus is as a UPS and power station for my home office. Thanks to that 10ms switchover time, I have been more than confident to trust this to run things such as my Wi-Fi router and modem, my main workstation, which has a monitor, my chargers to keep all my gear juiced up, my Plex Server, my Synology Bee Station that holds a backup of my client data, my Apple TV, and more. The EcoFlow Delta 3 Plus can power it easily, pulling whatever power it needs off the wall to transfer to my gear and keep my vital tech running. Additionally, if the power goes out, it can keep my gear running for the duration of the battery (which would vary in time based on what I have plugged in) while staying quiet and without dropping power to my essential devices.

EcoFlow Delta 3 Plus

(Image credit: Collin Probst // Future)

EcoFlow Delta 3 Plus

(Image credit: Collin Probst // Future)

EcoFlow Delta 3 Plus: Final verdict

The EcoFlow Delta 3 Plus strikes an excellent balance between power, portability, and advanced features. While limited accessory compatibility may deter some users, its rapid charging, robust construction, and quiet operation make it a top choice for diverse power needs. Whether you're an adventurer, a homeowner preparing for outages, or a professional requiring portable energy, this power station delivers dependable performance.


For more portable power, we tested out the best laptop power banks.

Stylish, comfortable, and professional, for my money this executive office chair means business – but with one major flaw
7:37 pm |

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

Eureka Ergonomic is a company I had not heard of until about a year ago. I've gotten to know them better. I've had the opportunity to try out the Eureka Ark standing desk and the Eureka Serene ergonomic office chair. Both have been great and have given a great insight into Eureka Ergonomic as a company.

Both of those products have shown me that Eureka Ergonomic is a company that cares about making premium products that are just as beautiful pieces as they are functional. To put it another way, you wouldn't find Eureka creating the classic and infamous cube shelf system sold at every budget store. But they would make a gorgeous bookshelf system out of walnut. While their gear looks premium and high-quality, they also want to reach the cheaper product market. For example, this is a premium leather chair, but it's currently on sale for only $400. It's slightly different from a lot of the best office chairs I've reviewed - but that's arguably part of its charm.

Eureka Ergonomic Royal Executive: Price and Availability

The Eureka Ergonomic Royal Microfiber Leather Executive Office Chair is sold for $700 on their website and is currently on sale for $400.

Eureka sells the Royal through its website (click here), Amazon, and select retailers. The Eureka Royal is available now and has four "interest-free installment" options via Shop Pay for those who need an option other than paying full price.

Eureka Ergonomic Royal

(Image credit: Collin Probst // Future)

Eureka Ergonomic Royal Executive: Unboxing and First Impressions

The Royal Microfiber Leather Executive Office Chair came well-packaged with secure padding to prevent any damage to the chair. Eureka included any necessary tools for assembly (such as the hex key) within the box, helping to ensure that my assembly time was around 12 minutes without any hiccups or issues.

At first glance, after the assembly was complete, this chair looked a bit bougie, but then I remembered the price and realized it was very nice for the price. It looks great and is my first time sitting in the chair; it's comfortable all around.

Granted, the armrests are not what I am used to with ergonomic chairs, nor is there any lumbar support, but this one is wonderful for a padded side leather chair.

Eureka Ergonomic Royal

(Image credit: Collin Probst // Future)

Eureka Ergonomic Royal Executive: Design and Build Quality

Specs

Material: Microfiber Leather
Weight Capacity: 350 lbs
Seat Height: 19.3" - 22.4"
Backrest Recline: 98° - 130°
Armrests: Fixed
Tilt Mechanism: None (limited rocking function)
Headrest: Adjustable
Warranty: 2 years (upholstery), 3 years (other parts)

Most ergonomic office chairs have a very similar look. They distinguish themselves with certain features, upgrades, fancier armrests or headrests, etc. The Eureka Ergonomic Royal, however, has a very different look. It stands out among all of my other ergonomic office chairs easily. Part of this distinguishability is because of the leather, part of it is because of the lack of a headrest, and part of it is because of the built-in and non-adjustable armrests that are solid and like a wall to the chair and not just an armrest on the arm... that the arm rest rests on...

Regardless of its stand-out design, the Royal has a lovely touch to it. There's a big difference between the old-school, dated, and fake leather executive chairs that are (thankfully) going away slowly but surely and the high quality, or "premium faux leather," of today. Yes, they're both fake leather. However, the quality of the material itself is significantly better here. I don't feel my legs sticking to the chair, nor my arms. I don't feel cold when I sit on it for the first time, and I don't feel like it will make me sweat an absurd amount.

Eureka Ergonomic Royal Executive: In use

My team has had this chair in our rotation of chairs for a few months now. At this time, the chair still looks brand new, even though we have used it rigorously. After hours upon hours of use, the plush cushioning still feels very comfortable even for extended use. Additionally, the faux leather I talked about earlier still feels cool without being cold, reducing sweat build-up or sticking to bare skin. The armrests are comfortable, though I do wish I could move them around sometimes. But, then again, when I look at this chair I am not shocked that the armrests don't move, becuase they aren't supposed to. Further, the lumbar support is lacking, though I don't feel pain when I use this chair for long hours, but rather just not supported and relieved in my lower back.

This chair is great for those who are looking for this style chair. If you are looking for an office chair that doesn't look like it's a piece of technology in and of itself, like a lot of the modern office chairs do, then this chair is a fantastic option. If you like the vibe of the classic leather executive office chairs but you don't want the discomfort that came with those, then this chair is for you.

Eureka Ergonomic Royal

(Image credit: Collin Probst // Future)

Eureka Ergonomic Royal Executive: Final verdict

The Eureka Royal Executive Office Chair gives off a luxury chair kind of feel, making it a perfect addition to both home offices and high-end executive spaces. Crafted with attention to detail, this chair boasts a sleek design and robust construction that ensure durability and aesthetic appeal. However, potential buyers who prioritize ergonomic features may find its lack of lumbar support and limited adjustability somewhat of a problem. These missing pieces could cause discomfort during long hours of work, making it essential for those who value optimal ergonomic benefits to consider their needs carefully.


For more workspace essentials, we've tested out the best standing desks and best office desks.

I like the look of the Razer Hammerhead Pro HyperSpeed gaming earbuds, but I think they suffer from a case of style over substance
5:00 pm |

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

Razer Hammerhead Pro HyperSpeed: two-minute review

The Razer Hammerhead Pro HyperSpeed are wireless gaming earbuds made for playing on the go thanks to their slender form and useful mobile-related features.

They certainly make a good first impression, with the elegant appearance of both the case and the earbuds themselves standing out. The AirPod-like stalks help on that front too, with the added benefit of making them easy to handle.

The Hammerhead Pro HyperSpeed buds are also very well-made, on par with the best gaming earbuds around. The hinge of the case is strong, as is the magnetic pull to keep the buds inside. This can make getting them out a little difficult, but it’s a compromise I’m okay with.

The Hammerhead Pro HyperSpeed can be configured and customized using the Razer Audio mobile app. This has some useful features, including plenty of touch control assignments, but I didn’t find it to be the most stable app in my experience, with connectivity issues and failed firmware updates proving a real thorn in its side.

As wireless gaming earbuds go, the audio quality of the Hammerhead Pro HyperSpeed is quite good. Sound is admirably rendered across the frequency spectrum, although the highs lack the pristine clarity found in high-end consumer-grade earphones. It’s also a shame that the ANC isn’t all that powerful either. However, the THX profile does help to create a greater sense of space with its surround sound effect, while the bass enhancement bolsters the low end without introducing too much distortion. The microphone quality is also good, if not the best in class.

The battery life of the Hammerhead Pro HyperSpeed isn’t great, lasting a couple of days according to my tests. Charging the case takes just over two hours, which again isn’t anything to boast about. However, the case charges the earbuds themselves quite quickly, meaning you won’t have to wait long to top them up.

With its competent sound and highly engineered design, the Hammerhead Pro HyperSpeed buds are a solid pair of wireless gaming earbuds. But while the sound is good, it’s not enough to make the Hammerhead Pro HyperSpeed stand with the very best gaming earbuds on this front. At this price, you would also expect greater comfort levels, better software, and fewer glitches. Better value earbuds are out there, such as the SteelSeries Arctis Gamebuds and the Sony Inzone Buds.

Razer Hammerhead Pro HyperSpeed earbuds on table with pink and plant in background

(Image credit: Future)

Razer Hammerhead Pro HyperSpeed review: price and availability

  • $199.99 / £199.99 / AU$369.95
  • Available now in black and white
  • More expensive than the best gaming earbuds

The Razer Hammerhead Pro HyperSpeed earbuds cost $199.99 / £199.99 / AU$369.95 and are available now in two colorways: black and white. They come with Razer’s HyperSpeed Wireless USB dongle, as well as a charging cable and three different sizes of silicone tips.

At this price, the Hammerhead Pro HyperSpeed buds are some of the most expensive gaming earbuds around. They’re even the same price as the Razer BlackShark V2 Pro, our pick as the best wireless gaming headset. With its over-ear design, it’s hardly as portable as the Hammerhead Pro HyperSpeed, but we found it to have great battery life, high levels of comfort, and superb sound.

The SteelSeries Arctis GameBuds, the best gaming earbuds right now in our view, are less expensive than the Hammerhead Pro HyperSpeed, yet they have terrific build quality and sound. We also found the companion app to be flexible and full of useful features.

Then there are the Sony Inzone Buds, which are about the same price as the Hammerhead Pro HyperSpeed, but offer superb sound and noise cancellation. Naturally, they're compatible with the best gaming console around right now – the PS5 – but they also work great with PC and mobile devices.

Razer Hammerhead Pro HyperSpeed review: specs

Close-up of case for Razer Hammerhead Pro HyperSpeed in hand with pink and plant in background

(Image credit: Future)

Razer Hammerhead Pro HyperSpeed review: design and features

  • Great build quality
  • Comfort slightly compromised
  • Razer Audio app issues

The Hammerhead Pro HyperSpeed ooze style. The matt black finish of the case is silky smooth and the engineering of the lid is impressive, opening with ease and closing with a satisfying click. The hinge is also weighted just right, with enough force to keep it securely shut.

In contrast to the case, the earbuds themselves are shiny. They feel equally as well-made, though, and ape the familiar design of Apple’s AirPods, with their long stalks protruding downwards from the drivers. In use, these stalks make the Hammerhead Pro HyperSpeed easy to put in and take out, while the drivers curve inwards, which also helps to secure them in your ear.

However, it can be quite awkward to remove the earbuds from the case, as the lack of divots on either the earbuds themselves or within the case makes it difficult to get a hold of them. And thanks to the strong magnetic slots, turning the case upside down won’t cause the earbuds to drop out with ease. This is a small price to pay for the added security, though.

Razer Hammerhead Pro HyperSpeed and accessories on table with pink and plant in background

(Image credit: Future)

Three sets of silicone tips with varying sizes are included to ensure you’ll get the fit right for you. However, regardless of which tip size I tried, I did experience minor aching after extended sessions, as the plastic body of the drivers exerted too much pressure on the inside of my ear canal. For shorter sessions, though, they were perfectly acceptable.

The Hammerhead Pro HyperSpeed can be customized using the Razer Audio mobile app. However, I had multiple issues with the headset failing to connect to the app on my Android device (a Google Pixel 7a). It also failed on numerous occasions to install a firmware update.

Once connected, though, you’ll find Razer Audio offers a range of useful tweaks, including various equalizer presets. The default is THX mode, which isn’t explained in the app, but this is Razer’s spatial audio engine. There’s also a custom profile that lets you boost or reduce multiple points across the entire frequency band as you see fit – a feature lacking in many other companion apps. However, it’s a shame that for PC users the Hammerhead Pro HyperSpeed buds don’t integrate with Synapse, Razer’s main peripheral software.

Top of case for Razer Hammerhead Pro HyperSpeed in hand with pink and plant in background

(Image credit: Future)

Razer Hammerhead Pro HyperSpeed review: Performance

  • Decent sound
  • Weak ANC
  • Some connectivity issues

The Hammerhead Pro HyperSpeed earbuds perform admirably for a pair of wireless gaming earbuds. The bass response is strong and there is enough clarity across all frequencies, although overall fidelity isn’t the best, with mild distortion occasionally rearing its ugly head.

The default THX EQ profile suffices for most scenarios, offering a balanced sound. THX is designed to impart a greater sense of positional accuracy, and I did find this to be the case, as audio pans subtly yet effectively to sonically map to your in-game environment.

The bass enhancement profile is also useful in elevating the low end without becoming muddy or overblown. However, I found that the enhanced clarity profile reduced the bass too much, and did little to actually improve fidelity as far as I could tell.

The Hammerhead Pro HyperSpeed buds also have ANC, although I didn’t find this blocked out external sounds all that well, even on the highest setting. There’s also an ambient mode to allow outside noises to come through, which is more effective, letting you hear yourself and other noises in the room clearly.

The microphone on the Hammerhead Pro HyperSpeed is also good, offering sufficient vocal clarity, but it’s not equal to the mics equipped on the best wireless gaming headsets. However, for a set of earbuds, it provides reasonable quality.

Razer Audio can also be used to customize the touch controls, with a generous number of actions available to configure, including a two-second hold, double tap, double tap and hold, and triple tap and hold. These can be assigned to a myriad of playback and call controls, as well as other functions such as ANC toggling. What’s more, each bud can have different assignments for the same action, providing even more flexibility.

Hand holding Razer Hammerhead Pro HyperSpeed earbud on table with pink and plant in background

(Image credit: Future)

The various touch gestures are reasonably responsive and consistent, although the single press does require a firm hold rather than a mere tap, which makes it less convenient to use in a hurry. Also, the double tap and hold action took a while to perform its assigned functions during my tests.

The various wireless connectivity modes work well for the most part. Using the HyperSpeed Wireless Dongle on PC and console is easy, as it’s simply a case of plug and play, requiring no further setup. When using the dongle, I found there was an improvement in sound quality, with enhanced clarity and better low-end response, as well as a decrease in lag compared to Bluetooth.

However, one downside of using the HyperSpeed Wireless method is that you can’t use Razer Audio when connected, as it only works via Bluetooth. This is a major inconvenience for those who like to tweak their settings frequently or on the fly.

Setting up Bluetooth was smooth for the most part, however, there were occasions when the earbuds failed to connect to my Android phone. I also experienced a bizarre issue where the volume reduced considerably when switching back to my mobile from a PC that was connected via the HyperSpeed dongle.

This issue was resolved easily by restarting the Bluetooth connection to my phone, and, hopefully, it’s a glitch that can easily be solved via a firmware update. I had no such problems when connecting to a Nintendo Switch, though, so it’s possible the fault lies with my mobile device.

The battery life of the Hammerhead Pro HyperSpeed isn’t impressive, as they just about lasted a couple of days, during which time I switched between Bluetooth and HyperSpeed modes. Charging the case took over two hours, which is an average performance. The case itself, though, does charge the earbuds themselves quite quickly, and it managed to recharge the earbuds from half to full in about half an hour.

Razer Hammerhead Pro HyperSpeed earbuds and case on table with pink and plant in background

(Image credit: Future)

Should I buy the Razer Hammerhead Pro HyperSpeed?

Buy it if...

You want numerous features
The ANC might not be anything to boast about, but the various EQ profiles and the customization options for the touch controls are welcome.

You want great build quality
In line with many of Razer’s products, the Hammerhead Pro HyperSpeed are built to a very high standard, with both the case and the buds themselves feeling premium and durable.

Don't buy it if...

You want the absolute best sound
Despite doing an admirable job, the sound quality of the Hammerhead Pro HyperSpeed just can’t compete with larger headsets or earphones designed specifically for audio playback.

You want the best companion app / software
The Razer Audio app is useful when it works, but I found it wasn’t the most stable in my experience, and the fact it doesn’t work when connected via the HyperSpeed dongle is irksome.

Also consider...

SteelSeries Arctis GameBuds
As the best gaming earbuds around, you can’t really do much better than the Arctis GameBuds. With stellar sound and top-end features such as ANC and IP55 water resistance, they’re hard to beat. And to top it all off, they’re cheaper than the Hammerhead Pro HyperSpeed.

Read our full SteelSeries Arctis GameBuds review

Sony Inzone Buds
As one of the best PS5 headsets, the Sony Inzone Buds have excellent noise cancellation, sound quality, and battery life. We did find some issues with Bluetooth connectivity and the bass response wasn’t the best, but they’re still a compelling package nonetheless. They’re also the same price as the Hammerhead Pro HyperSpeed.

Read our full Sony Inzone Buds review

How I tested the Razer Hammerhead Pro HyperSpeed

  • Tested for over a week
  • Used on numerous devices
  • Extensive gaming experience

I tested the Razer Hammerhead Pro HyperSpeed for over a week, during which time I used them when playing games, listening to music, and watching video content.

I tried them with an Android phone – more specifically a Google Pixel 7a – as well as a PC, PS5, and Nintendo Switch. I used both Bluetooth and the HyperSpeed Wireless Dongle to connect to these devices.

I have been gaming for about 25 years, and have experienced numerous headsets and earbuds during that time. I have also reviewed various gaming headsets and general headphones.

  • Read more about how we test
  • First reviewed December 2024.
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