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This retro-style Bluetooth speaker is trying to outdo Marshall at its own game, but is it up to the task?

2:00 am | January 18, 2026

Edifier ES60: two-minute review

Elegant and Supreme. According to Edifier, those are the two words that define its ‘ES’ line of speakers. So, as you can imagine, my hopes were pretty high for the Edifier ES60 – a Bluetooth speaker that promises “immersive” and “high-quality 360-degree sound”.

And in some ways, it met my expectations. Especially in regard to its ‘Elegant’ side. Yes, this is a very nice-looking speaker. Its retro-style design – which is clearly pretty Marshall-inspired – is a hit, with its golden details, faux-leather casing, and appealing speaker grille winning me over.

Sure it’s not the lightest speaker in its size-class, and its IP66 waterproof rating has been outdone by many of the best Bluetooth speakers, but it’s still highly portable and able to withstand a good splashing.

I wasn’t totally convinced of the ES60’s supremacy, though, especially in the audio department. This is a solid-sounding speaker in general, with clear overall audio output and punchy enough bass. However, it lacks the nuance that many similarly priced rivals offer. Vocals don’t sound beautifully separated, and it's not as expressive or energetic as models like the JBL Flip 7. The treble is also a little overzealous, and sounds particularly harsh at higher volumes.

The ES60’s suite of features is also a bit of a mixed bag. I’m a fan of the customizable ambient lighting, USB-C audio passthrough compatibility, and inclusion of a built-in mic for hands-free calls. However, the EQ options are very basic, and there’s no custom option, which I would’ve used to temper that treble a touch.

Also, you only get nine hours of battery life from this model, which is underwhelming compared to much of the competition in this price range. For instance, the aforementioned Flip 7 can live for as long as 16 hours, and the Marshall Emberton III can go for up to 32 hours.

When you consider that the Edifier ES60 typically comes in at $199.99 / £119.99 / AU$199.99, it just doesn’t feel like great value for money. Rivals outdo it in too many crucial areas, including audio performance, battery life, and waterproofing. It’s still a solid speaker overall, with an especially eye-catching design, but unless it’s on sale, I can’t recommend it outright.

Man holding the Edifier ES60 — (Image credit: Future)

Edifier ES60 review: price and release date

$199.99 / £119.99 / AU$199.99
Launched in March 2025

The Edifier ES60 launched in March 2025 as part of Edifier’s ‘ES’ line, which also includes models like the palm-sized Edifier ES20 and larger Edifier ES300. It typically sells for $199.99 / £119.99 / AU$199.99, but I have seen it going for less than $150 over on Amazon US on occasion. You can grab the ES60 in either Black or Ivory.

Edifier ES60 review: specs

Drivers	1x 18W mid-bass driver; 2x 8W tweeters
Dimensions	7.5 x 3.6 x 3.9 inches / 190 x 92 x 98mm
Weight	2.3lbs / 1kg
Connectivity	Bluetooth 5.4, USB-C
Battery life	9 hours
Waterproofing	IP66

Edifier ES60 on table, against pink background with lights active — (Image credit: Future)

Edifier ES60 review: features

Attractive customizable lighting
Limited EQ options
Nine-hour battery life isn’t great

Under the hood the Edifier ES60 has a fairly standard configuration for a speaker of its size. It’s packed with a single 18W mid-bass driver, alongside two 8W tweeters. That means you’re getting a maximum power output of 34W – similar to that of the JBL Flip 7, but quite a bit more than its main rival, the Marshall Emberton III.

So, how good does it sound exactly? I’ll get onto that later – let’s take a look at its list of features for now.

You get a lot of the usual stuff here, such as multi-point connectivity, dual-speaker pairing, and companion app compatibility. However, you do get a few neat extras, including a high-sensitivity microphone, which enables you to take hands-free calls. This even has integrated noise-cancelling technology, which can carve your voice out from busy surroundings.

Another notable inclusion is EQ settings, accessible via the Edifier ConneX app. In honesty, these are pretty basic. You get the default music tuning, alongside a game, movie, and outdoor calibration. There are no genre-specific alternatives, and there’s no custom tuning available. That last part is a real shame – if there’s a specific sound I’m aiming for, I always appreciate the option to implement it.

Another negative for me was the speaker’s battery life. It only delivers nine hours of listening, which just isn’t that much for a speaker in its size class. By comparison, the JBL Flip 7 delivers as much as 16 hours, while the Marshall Emberton III provides a colossal 32 hours.

It’s not all bad news, though. One of the best things about the Edifier ES60 is its integrated LED lighting. This emits from the underside of the speaker, and can shine onto a surface to create a bit of ambience. You can customize the color and effect of the lighting in the Edifier ConneX app, which is a nice touch. This can also be disabled entirely if you want to focus on conserving battery life.

You can also access wired audio via the speaker’s USB-C port, which opens up higher-resolution, more stable listening. That’s an enticing inclusion, and something that a lot of Edifier’s rivals skip on.

Features score: 3.5/5

Edifier ES60 review: sound quality

Decent at mid volumes, with solid bass output
But treble can sound a little overeager
Not the best in terms of nuance and instrument separation

I absolutely adored the sound signature of the Edifier ES60’s smaller-sized sibling, the Edifier ES20, so I had pretty high hopes for this one. On top of that, Edifier itself claims that the ES60 plates up a “superior sound performance” with “deep, punchy bass”, so I was pretty excited to get into my listening test.

With I Just Wanna Stop by Gino Vannelli, the overall sound was fairly pleasant at mid-volumes, with clear vocals and well-balanced bass. However, I did sense that drums in the treble range were a tad overstated, which was only emphasized as I cranked up the loudness.

It was a similar sort of story in the more upbeat Keep the Fire Burning by Gwen McCrae – bass was tempered but clean, but those higher-pitched percussive elements were a little over-eager. Again, vocals were quite clear, but not beautifully separated. More generally, instrument separation isn’t incredible on the ES60 – it doesn’t feel as if every individual element can express itself fully.

After this, I tried something a little different, with the bass-heavy Fascinator by Max Dean. I was fairly impressed here, with the deep, pumping bass in the build-up sounding agile and decently regimented. Those highs were pretty aggressive again, and they could potentially get grating over long listening periods, but vocal chops in the midrange were balanced quite well, and didn’t sound obscured.

M-High’s 12 O.C Riddim was also handled pretty well. Bass gets very dark in this track, and although the ES60 couldn’t quite muster up the full-bodied low end might required to replicate that, it certainly produced a meaty effort. At higher volumes, though, bass does thin out quite a bit, and there’s very obvious compression – that treble goes from overzealous to shrill, and vocals lose tonal accuracy.

Another positive is that the ES60 sounds pretty good from every listening angle. I tried walking around our music testing space and office, and the speaker remained fairly consistent at all times.

But how does this model compare against the competition? Well, I tested the ES60 alongside the JBL Flip 7 – a speaker with a similar amount of power, and similar price (in the UK at least). And this comparison hammered home why the Flip 7 sits atop my guide to the best Bluetooth speakers.

The key difference I picked up on was the Flip 7’s ability to carve out vocals and bring them to the fore, creating a truly emotive listen. In Ned Doheny’s I’ve Got Your Number, strumming guitars were beautifully weighted on the Flip 7 and sounded as if they occupied their own pocket, while soulful vocals came through with clarity and direction. The ES60 delivered a more one-note performance, which never sounded harsh or unpleasant – it just lacked the nuance of JBL’s speaker.

Meanwhile, Love At First Sight - Kid Creme Vocal Dub by Kylie Minogue just had a bit more energy and drive on the Flip 7, a speaker that ultimately surpasses the ES60 in terms of control, instrument separation, and expressiveness. So, even though Edifier’s speaker sounds solid overall – especially in the low end – I just don’t think its audio performance can stack up to some big-name rivals.

If the ES60 had a custom equalizer or even some more presets to play around with, it may well be able to compete more effectively, but as I mentioned in the ‘Features’ section, the options at your fingertips are very limited.

It’s also worth flagging that this model only supports the most basic SBC audio codec – there’s no fancy stuff like LDAC or aptX Adaptive on-board, and not even any love for AAC. That means you won’t get the most insightful, high-resolution listen around if you’re streaming over Bluetooth.

Sound quality score: 3.5/5

Man pressing button on the Edifier ES60 — (Image credit: Future)

Edifier ES60 review: design

Appealing retro-style aesthetic
Decent IP66 waterproof rating
Pretty solid feel

The category in which the Edifier ES60 arguably excels the most is design. Sure, it’s clearly inspired quite a bit by Marshall’s Bluetooth speakers, in particular, the Emberton line, but Edifier has pulled off the retro style nicely here.

It’s got an attractive speaker grille, faux-leather casing, and golden details, which help it stand out from much of the crowd. You can also grab this model in either Black or Ivory, and both colorways complement the speaker’s luxury look beautifully.

On the top side, this model has a simple and effective array of buttons, which allow you to adjust lighting, playback, or power in an instant. You’ll also find a USB-C port on the reverse side of the speaker, which can be used to charge it up or access wired audio.

Earlier, I discussed the speaker’s LED lighting, which conjures up a little bit of ambience for immersive listening sessions, and is customizable in the Edifier ConneX app.

So, I’m a big fan of the layout and look of the Edifier ES60, but how does it fare in terms of practicality? Well, not too badly. First of all, it's not the lightest of speakers, coming in at around 2.3lbs / 1kg. However, it’s just about small enough to carry around one-handed, and there’s a fabric strap included if you’re traveling a short distance.

The ES60 is also IP66-rated, meaning that it’s fully dustproof, and able to withstand powerful jets of water from multiple directions. That rating is decent overall, but a lot of the competition goes further, with the JBL Flip 7, for instance, holding an IP68 rating, making it able to survive a dunking under 1.5 meters of water for 30 minutes.

Still, this is a solidly built model, and should survive the odd drop when you’re out and about. Combine that with its swell look, and the Edifier ES60 nets plenty of points in the design department.

Design score: 4.5/5

Edifier logo on the Edifier ES60

(Image credit: Future)

Edifier ES60 review: value

Fairly pricey, especially in the US
Better value rivals out there
Still, by no means a bad speaker

Though the ES60 exceeded in the last category, it falls a little flat in terms of value. It’s quite a pricey model, coming in at $199.99 / £119.99 / AU$199.99. That’s especially pricey for the US buyers out there, although I have seen it going for a bit less from time to time – it’s actually selling for around $149.99 on Amazon US.

Even so, that’s quite a bit to shell out on a speaker of this size, especially when you consider the imperfect audio quality and feature-set on offer. Don’t get me wrong, this is a nice-looking speaker, and it doesn’t sound bad by any means, but the competition is just too hot.

Take the JBL Flip 7, for example. It's regularly available for less than the Edifier ES60, plus it sounds better, has superior waterproofing, and offers much more playtime. Even the Marshall Emberton III – which this speaker draws inspiration from – delivers great audio, stereo sound capabilities, and an even more luxurious look.

As a result, the Edifier ES60 isn’t the value marvel of its sibling, the Edifier ES20 – and until it gets a juicy sale, I won’t be able to recommend it outright.

Value score: 2.5/5

Carry strap attached to the Edifier ES60 — (Image credit: Future)

Should I buy the Edifier ES60?

Attributes	Notes	Rating
Features	Neat built-in mic and lighting, but poor EQ options and battery life.	3.5/5
Sound quality	Decently clear with solid bass, but lacks nuance and treble gets overexcited.	3.5/5
Design	Appealing aesthetic, well-built, IP66 rating isn’t too bad.	4.5/5
Value	By no means a bad speaker, but it can’t keep up with the competition in this price category.	2.5/5

Buy it if...

You want a speaker that’s also a statement piece
The best thing about the Edifier ES60 is its retro-style aesthetic, which makes it a real standout pick. Its golden details, neat speaker grille, and faux-leather casing make for a great combo, as we’ve seen with Marshall’s Bluetooth speakers, too.

You’re looking to enjoy an ambient listening experience
Another thing that makes the ES60 special is its integrated LED lighting. This can be customized in the Edifier ConneX app, and helps to create a more atmospheric, ambient listening experience.

Don't buy it if...

You want the best sound quality
When comparing the ES60 with the similarly powerful JBL Flip 7, the latter just operated at a new level in terms of audio quality. Unfortunately, the ES60 lacks the nuance, energy and control to compete with the best of the best in its size and price category.

You don’t want to charge your speaker too much
The ES60’s nine-hour battery life isn’t very impressive, and a whole lot of rivals outdo it for playtime. The two speakers I’ve listed below, for example, are far better choices if you don’t want to charge your audio companion all too regularly.

Edifier ES60 review: also consider

	Edifier ES60	Marshall Emberton III	JBL Flip 7
Price	$199.99 / £119.99 / AU$199.99	$159 / £159 / AU$289	$149 / £129 / AU$179
Drivers	1x 18W mid-bass driver; 2x 8W tweeters	2x 10W full-range drivers, 2 passive radiators	1x 45 x 80mm mid/bass 'racetrack' driver, 1x 16mm tweeter
Dimensions	7.5 x 3.6 x 3.9 inches / 190 x 92 x 98mm	6.3 x 2.7 x 3 inches / 160 x 68 x 76.9mm	2.8 x 7.2 x 2.8 inches / 70 x 183 x 72mm
Weight	2.3lbs / 1kg	1.5lbs / 0.7kg	1.2lbs / 0.6kg
Connectivity	Bluetooth 5.4, USB-C	Bluetooth 5.3	Bluetooth 5.4, USB-C
Battery life	9 hours	32 hours	16 hours
Waterproofing	IP66	IP67	IP68

Marshall Emberton III
It only seems right to include the Emberton III here, as it's clearly a point of inspiration for the Elegant Superb 60. We really rated this speaker, thanks to its pleasantly balanced sound, incredible battery life, and gorgeous looks. It’s certainly a better performer than Edifier’s speaker – it just doesn’t have the integrated lighting. Read our full Marshall Emberton III review.

JBL Flip 7
I’ve mentioned the JBL Flip 7 multiple times already, but for good reason. It’s simply the best value-for-money Bluetooth speaker on the market, with S-tier waterproofing, an attractive cylindrical design, and almost unfathomably good sound for such a small cylinder. If you’re going to buy one speaker in this price range, the Flip 7 would be my top recommendation. Read our full JBL Flip 7 review.

How I tested the Edifier ES60

Tested over the course of one week
Mainly used in the music testing space at Future Labs
Predominantly tested using Tidal

I spent hours upon hours testing out the Edifier ES60, listening to a ton of music and fiddling around with its various features. During my time testing it, I tried all of its light customization and EQ options, and made sure to try it in a variety of settings.

For the most part, though, I used the ES60 in the music testing room here at Future Labs. When listening to tunes, I went through the TechRadar testing playlist, which features tracks from a range of genres. But I also sifted through a bunch of songs from my personal library – mainly via Tidal, but sometimes on Spotify instead.

More generally, I’ve reviewed dozens of speakers, headphones, earbuds, soundbars, and more here at TechRadar, where I have a particular focus on audio-visual technology. I’ve tested most of the ES60’s competition, so I know what it takes for a speaker to stand out in a highly convoluted market.

First reviewed: January 2026
Read more about how we test

No, Skyrim’s Switch 2 port isn’t that bad — but there’s room for improvement

7:00 pm | January 17, 2026

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

The Elder Scrolls 5: Skyrim isn’t exactly a game that needs an introduction. Its broad appeal and astonishing staying power have seen it come to practically every single console since its late 2011 release, and it remains as impressively accessible and playable now as it was all those years ago.

Review information

Platform reviewed: Nintendo Switch 2
Available on: PS5, PS4, PS3, Xbox Series X, Xbox Series S, Xbox One, Xbox 360, Nintendo Switch, Nintendo Switch 2, PC, watches, your grandma's washer dryer
Release date: December 9, 2025

Enter the Nintendo Switch 2 version of Skyrim Anniversary Edition, which packs the full game and all of its official expansions and Creation Club content into one portable package. This includes a whole heap of quests, housing, armaments, and entire systems like fishing and a survival mode on top of the already massive base game.

It sounds like a pretty sweet deal, and in many ways it is. I was especially impressed by the port’s incredibly crisp image quality - offering clarity and broad draw distance not dissimilar to versions of Skyrim on other contemporary platforms like PS5 and Xbox Series X. It’s also a winner in handheld mode, with visuals and performance that are broadly comparable to docked play on TV.

You might be aware that this port has had some teething issues, though some of which have thankfully been addressed since launch. Its initial horrendous input latency has been cleaned up, allowing for a more responsive play experience overall.

Some issues do remain, however. Distant objects like trees and rocks can take on a weird blue hue, and reflections on bodies of water can jitter as you move the camera. I’m also not a fan of the complete lack of visual or accessibility settings. This has always been an issue outside of the PC version, but Skyrim is a game that desperately needs a field-of-view slider accessible in its settings menu and not hidden within console commands on PC.

Otherwise, Skyrim’s Switch 2 port is a perfectly playable version of the monstrously popular role-playing game. I think the 30fps lock for exterior environments is disappointing - especially when we see other Switch 2 ports like Cyberpunk 2077: Ultimate Edition offer VRR-supported 40fps modes for smoother play in handheld mode. That said, it is a stable 30fps, and you’ll rarely, if ever, run into bouts of chunky performance drops.

New dog, old tricks

A vampire lord addresses the player character in Skyrim. — (Image credit: Bethesda)

Skyrim’s gotten its fair share of criticisms over the years - many of which are fair. The main story isn’t much to write home about, combat is pretty rock-em-sock-em-robots at the best of times, and role-playing elements have been sanded down to offer a more action-focused experience compared to Morrowind and Oblivion.

Best bit

An armored player sits atop a gold furnished Dwarven mechanical horse in Skyrim. — (Image credit: Bethesda)

I’ve particularly enjoyed playing Skyrim in portable mode on Nintendo Switch 2. It runs great on the handheld and retains the clear image quality of docked play. I’ve done all of these quests so many times over the years, but having it in a compact, portable package is a novelty worth experiencing.

And yet for all its perceived issues, Skyrim remains one of the most impressively replayable games ever. Yes, even without mods (which aren’t supported on Switch 2 as they are on PS5 and Xbox, though I’m not going to criticize Bethesda for that one).

I still find much to enjoy in Skyrim to this day. Creating new characters to try a wide variety of builds is delightful - whether that be a warhammer-wielding Orc or a dainty Breton that specializes in conjuring everything from swords and skeletons, to zombies and atronachs. I’ve always liked the enchantment system, too; grabbing some nonchalant piece of jewelry and turning it into a fount of endless magicka regeneration is always such a satisfying feeling.

In this Switch 2 port, though, I’m checking out Skyrim’s curated Creation Club content for the first time. It’s a bit of a mixed bag. Some additions are brilliant, like entirely new player houses that are wonderfully decorated. Others, like a smattering of just-okay sidequests, I can really take or leave.

I really would’ve liked an option for an ‘alternate start’ though. Skyrim’s lengthy, unskippable intro is still a slog when setting up new characters (you can load up an autosave that skips to character creation, but you still need to play through the tutorial in Helgen). Perhaps that would be veering too close to modding territory, and above and beyond what this simple port is trying to achieve, but it certainly would help the pacing on repeat playthroughs.

What I’m even less of a fan of is Bethesda’s insistence on not offering anything in the way of quality-of-life updates. Skyrim, by default, has a very narrow field of view, and there is no option to change this on any of its console ports, including on Switch 2. While not so bad on the console’s handheld display, it makes for pretty uncomfortable play sessions on larger TV screens.

A fiery port?

A gorgeous sunsetted vista in Skyrim. A stream is surrounded by fall-like foliage as the sun sets over a mountainous background. — (Image credit: Bethesda)

This latest port of Skyrim does have some Switch 2-centric features to speak of. Both gyro aiming and mouse controls are fully supported, which are nice additions on paper. However, I didn’t find the latter to be a particularly good fit for this port and its 30fps lock. This lower framerate makes aiming and tilting the camera with mouse controls feel quite sluggish, even after a patch that improved the input latency issues. I quickly found myself going back to the Nintendo Switch 2 Pro Controller after testing out the feature for a little while.

On the topic of performance, I feel there’s room for improvement. While I’m happy that overall performance is largely stable, the 30fps lock for the overworld is underwhelming for a nearly 15-year-old game. At the very least, a performance mode option that raises the framerate would have been nice to see here.

Elsewhere, there are a handful of visual oddities to make note of. Distant objects - particularly foliage - often take on a strange blue hue. While quite subtle at first, it’s one of those things you’ll notice every time after seeing it happen just once. Meanwhile, bodies of water have a weird visual bug that causes reflections to jitter when moving the camera. It’s not as egregious as the blue trees, but worth mentioning all the same.

Performance while exploring interiors like dungeons, houses, and inns can vary wildly. Many indoor locations actually uncap the game’s framerate, meaning performance can appear to go as high as 60fps. It’s a bit jarring to have this gap in performance between indoor and outdoor areas, honestly, but a smoother framerate in the more mazelike interiors is certainly welcome.

Should I play Skyrim Anniversary Edition on Switch 2?

Play it if...

You want Skyrim on the go
I was very impressed with Skyrim’s performance on Switch 2 in handheld mode. I don’t mind the 30fps compromise as much here, especially as it helps maintain a sharp image quality. Outside of Steam Deck, this is the best way to enjoy Skyrim in portable fashion.

You want all official content in one place
Skyrim Anniversary Edition houses the Dawnguard, Hearthfire, and Dragonborn expansions in addition to the base game and a wealth of curated Creation Club additions. That’s hundreds of hours of Skyrim in one portable package.

Don't play it if...

You were hoping for better performance
The Switch 2 port’s 30fps lock in exterior environs is definitely disappointing, and I expect more from a 15-year-old title. While overall performance is stable, play can feel quite sluggish.

You want more options
No FoV slider and a general lack of accessibility options lend the impression that Skyrim’s Switch 2 port is fairly low effort in some areas.

Accessibility

Skyrim’s options on Switch 2 aren’t much different from what you’ll get on other platforms. You can choose to enable or disable various Switch 2-specific options like gyro aiming, mouse controls, and gesture-based attacks, but that’s really about it. Don’t expect things like a field of view slider or colorblind options here.

How I reviewed Skyrim Anniversary Edition on Switch 2

I played Skyrim on Nintendo Switch 2 for around 30 hours, completing the main story (again) and a handful of guild questlines. I also played through a good portion of the game’s expansion content and Creation Club additions.

I went back and forth between handheld and docked play, finding that both offer great image quality and largely stable performance. When playing on TV, I used the Nintendo Switch 2 Pro Controller, as well as the Joy-Con 2, for trying out the port’s new mouse controls. My display of choice is the ever-reliable LG CX OLED TV.

First reviewed December 2025-January 2026.

Want delicious, quality espresso with the convenience of pods? After two weeks of testing, I can say the Lavazza A Modo Mio Smeg is the coffee maker for you

4:00 pm |

Author: admin | Category: Coffee Machines Computers Gadgets Home Small Appliances | Tags: US | Comments: Off

Lavazza A Modo Mio Smeg: one-minute review

The Lavazza A Modo Mio Smeg combines the convenience of coffee capsules with Smeg's signature retro style. It's a cut above your typical espresso machine in terms of looks, and it performs brilliantly as well.

This is an appliance that does one thing, and does it well: making espresso. There are just two options to choose from – standard or lungo (long) – and the controls couldn't be simpler to operate. You barely need the manual to get started; just rinse the machine as directed and you're ready to make your first drink.

Lavazza's A Modo Mio capsules are remarkably affordable (much cheaper than similar Nespresso Vertuo or Tassimo pods), and offer a great variety of coffees and roasts, each of which is labelled with an intensity rating. There are no fancy added flavors here; just good coffee, freshly packed in an airtight package, ready to brew in seconds.

The pods themselves are compostable, although it's worth bearing in mind that you can't toss them in your home food waste or compost heap. Instead, you'll need to take them to a Terracycle collection point, which might be a little inconvenient, depending on where you live.

Lavazza A Modo Mio Smeg coffee maker on kitchen counter with espresso cups, box of coffee pods, and plant — This is a capsule coffee machine that does one thing well: it makes great espresso (Image credit: Future)

The A Modo Mio Smeg also has a tendency to accumulate finger marks as a result of its glossy plastic chassis. I had a damp cloth on hand to ensure it remained looking smart; but it's one of the best coffee makers around – if you like your drinks short, strong, and fast.

Lavazza A Modo Mio Smeg: specifications

Name	Lavazza A Modo Mio Smeg
Type	Capsule coffee maker
Dimensions (H x W x D)	11.4 x 6.2 x 14.4 inches / 290 x 157 x 366mm
Weight	9.4lbs / 4.25kg
Water tank capacity	30.4oz / 900ml

Lavazza A Modo Mio Smeg: price and availability

Relatively expensive for a capsule coffee maker
Currently not available in the US
Pods are much cheaper than Nespresso or Tassimo capsules

The Lavazza A Modo Mio Smeg has a list price of £249 / AU$349 (about $350), but can sometimes be found at a discount – for example, at the time of writing, it was available in Australia for 25% off. At full price, it's expensive for a capsule coffee maker – particularly one without a milk frother – but the capsules themselves are so affordable that this coffee maker could actually work out cheaper than a budget Nespresso or Tassimo machine in the long run.

Lavazza A Modo Mio capsules are available directly from Lavazza as a one-off purchase or via subscription. You can also find them on various specialty coffee websites, on Amazon, and in some supermarkets. A pack of 16 capsules retails for £6.45 / AU$15 (about $9), and the cost per drink drops significantly if you buy a bundle instead. That makes A Modo Mio pods some of the cheapest coffee pods around, and much less expensive than Nespresso Vertuo capsules or Tassimo T-Pods.

Value score: 4/5

Lavazza A Modo Mio Smeg: design

Compact and lightweight
Gloss finish tends to attract fingerprints
Very simple controls
Small drip tray

This is an attractive little coffee maker with the same 1960s-influenced retro styling as many of Smeg's other products. It’s purely an espresso machine; it lets you choose between long (lungo) and regular shots, but these are the extent of your options. However, it would look great alongside the Smeg Mini Milk Frother, giving you a perfect little setup for making cappuccinos and lattes.

It’s available in black, white, and cream (different retailers stock different colors), all of which have a gloss finish and chrome accents. The black machine I tested looked very attractive, but I found that the shiny plastic chassis tended to attract fingerprints easily, and I had to keep a cloth on hand to keep it looking good.

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Water tank removed from Lavazza A Modo Mio Smeg coffee maker — The water tank feels solid, and has a sturdy lid to prevent leaks when carrying (Image credit: Future)

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Person inserting coffee pod into Lavazza A Modo Mio Smeg coffee maker — Lavazza's A Modo Mio pods are compostable, but only at special facilities (Image credit: Future)

The water tank is robust, and has a well-fitting lid that won’t slide off when the tank is full. That’s particularly helpful because the maximum fill line is only about half an inch from the top. It has a convenient handle, and the whole assembly slides easily onto the back of the machine.

The drip tray is only really large enough to accommodate espresso cups. While you can remove the main platform to fit a larger cup beneath (such as demi-tasse), a standard 300ml coffee mug will hang over the edge.

Used pod bin removed from Lavazza A Modo Mio Smeg coffee maker — Used pods are dispensed into a bin, which you can access by removing a drawer behind the drip tray (Image credit: Future)

Used capsules drop into a container that’s accessed by pulling out a drawer on the front of the machine, and which has an internal drip tray so the pods can dry (although I recommend always emptying used capsules at the end of each day for hygiene, washing out the drawer, and allowing it to air-dry overnight).

Design score: 4/5

Lavazza A Modo Mio Smeg: performance

Very simple to use
Pump is especially quiet
Espresso tastes rounded and well-extracted
No flavored coffee capsules available

The Lavazza A Modo Mio Smeg is exceptionally simple to use, even for a capsule espresso machine. The first time you use it, you’re instructed to wash out the water tank, place a cup under the dispenser, and run the "lungo" program with no pod inserted to thoroughly rinse the interior components with hot water. Continue doing this until the tank is empty, and the machine will be ready to use.

Lift up the chrome-colored lid and you’ll find a slot to insert your A Modo Mio capsule. It takes a little effort to push the lid back down afterwards – the machine uses this force to pierce the pod about 22 times – but you can use your whole hand to apply the necessary pressure.

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Lavazza A Modo Mio Smeg coffee maker dispensing espresso into cup — The A Modo Mio Smeg coffee maker can dispense espresso in two sizes: standard and lungo (Image credit: Future)

Image 2 of 2

Cup placed on Lavazza A Modo Mio Smeg coffee maker drip tray — Although you can remove the drip tray platform to accommodate a larger cup, there's not enough room for a standard sized mug (Image credit: Future)

Capsule coffee machines are rarely loud, but the Lavazza A Modo Mio Smeg is quieter than most. Measured with a decibel meter, it briefly reached a maximum of 70dB during brewing – about the same as a hairdryer – but was only around 50dB throughout the whole brewing process.

Once you’re done, rinse the dispenser again without a capsule to remove residue from the dispenser.

During my tests, the espresso didn’t have as much crema as you might get from a Nespresso Vertuo pod, but the flavor from Lavazza’s capsules was considerably better; it tasted more rounded and balanced. I tested two different arabica capsules of different strengths, and was very impressed by both.

Espresso made using Lavazza A Modo Mio Smeg coffee maker — (Image credit: Future)

Unlike some other coffee pods, A Modo Mio capsules aren’t available in different flavors and with sweeteners – but, personally, I don't think that's a bad thing. Instead, the capsules vary by roast, variety and terroir. This is a capsule machine for people who want good-tasting espresso quickly, and aren’t interested in added fruit, syrup, or spice flavorings. Whether that appeals to you is a matter of personal preference.

Lavazza A Modo Mio capsules are compostable, but you can't toss them in your home food waste. If you're in the UK, you should take them to a public Terracycle drop-off point. If there isn't a drop-off point nearby (they're mostly concentrated around south England and the Midlands), you can register to run one, but you can't have personal collection boxes sent to your home.

Performance score: 5/5

Should you buy the Lavazza A Modo Mio Smeg?

Lavazza A Modo Mio Smeg score card
Attribute	Notes	Score
Value	The machine itself is quite pricey, but the capsules are some of the cheapest around (and great quality, too).	4/5
Design	Stylish, compact, and easy to operate, but the gloss finish is prone to gathering fingerprints.	4/5
Performance	Produces excellent espresso quickly and quietly, and is a piece of cake to maintain.	5/5

Buy it if

You want good espresso, fast

If you like your coffee short and fast, this is the machine for you. It does one thing, and does it very well – and Lavazza's coffee pods are excellent.

You plan to keep it for a long time

This coffee maker costs more than your typical capsule espresso machine, but the pods are so affordable that they'll offset the difference over time.

Don't buy it if

You enjoy fun-flavored coffee

There's nothing wrong with preferring a pumpkin spice latte to a straight shot of espresso, but Lavazza's A Modo Mio pods are all about the beans, not added flavorings.

You need a cheap coffee maker

Smeg style doesn't come cheap, and this machine is considerably pricier than most capsule coffee makers. However, there are more affordable options in Lavazza's A Modo Mio series, if this one is outside your budget.

Lavazza A Modo Mio Smeg: also consider

If you're not sure whether the Lavazza A Modo Mio Smeg is the right coffee maker for you, here are two other options to consider:

De'Longhi Dedica Duo

If you're willing to consider moving from pods to freshly ground coffee, this smart little espresso machine is around the same price as the Lavazza A Modo Mio Smeg, and opens up a whole world of specialty coffee.

Read our full De'Longhi Dedica Duo review

Krups Nespresso Pixie

The tiny Pixie has held the top spot in our roundup of the best Nespresso machines for years, thanks to its balance of style and performance. Like the A Modo Mio it's purely an espresso machine, and it uses Nespresso Original pods, which are more affordable than Vertuo capsules.

Read our full Krups Nespresso Pixie review

How I tested the Lavazza A Moda Mio Smeg

I tested the Lavazza A Modo Mio Smeg coffee maker for two weeks, making at least two drinks every day using two different types of espresso pods. I followed the setup instructions in the manual, prepared each drink using fresh tap water, and rinsed the dispenser between brews. I emptied and washed out the machine's bin and drip tray at the end of each day, and allowed everything to air-dry overnight. I cleaned the exterior of the machine with a damp microfiber cloth.

For more details, see how we test, rate, and review products at TechRadar.

I tested the new Amazon Fire TV Omni QLED TV, and it’s good overall for the money but bested by budget mini-LED TV competition

3:00 pm |

Author: admin | Category: Computers Gadgets Televisions | Tags: Dolby Atmos, HDR, TV | Comments: Off

Amazon Fire TV Omni QLED (2025): Two-minute review

The Amazon Fire TV Omni QLED (2025) is an interesting TV for one reason: it uses Amazon’s new AI-powered Alexa+, which is a more contextual, conversational, and higher-functioning version of the company’s voice assistant.

Otherwise, some features have been sacrificed in the Amazon Fire TV Omni QLED (2025) that made the Amazon Fire TV Omni Mini-LED, Amazon’s previous flagship TV, appealing, such as a mini-LED backlight and 144Hz support for gaming. Both are features we regularly look for in the best TVs. Despite those omissions, the new Omni QLED is priced relatively high for what it offers, with competing TVs from Hisense, TCL, and Roku delivering better bang for the buck.

On the plus side, Amazon’s built-in voice assistant is very well-implemented, and there’s even a mic mute for privacy. Also, you can expect to find the Amazon Fire TV Omni QLED priced considerably lower during the company’s regular sales events.

Amazon Fire TV Omni QLED (2025) review: Price and release date

Amazon Fire TV Omni QLED (2025) remote control on table — Amazon's remote is similar to the ones included with other Fire TV devices (Image credit: Future)

Release date: November 2025
50-inch: $479.99
55-inch: $589.99
65-inch: $849.99
75-inch: $1,199.99

The Amazon Fire TV Omni QLED (2025) was released in November 2025 and replaces an earlier version of the TV with the same name. Having just been released in time for Black Friday, it ended up priced a few hundred dollars below list price during that time, with the 50-inch model’s price dropping to $279.99 and the 65-inch model to $749.99.

The Amazon Fire TV Omni QLED (2025) is currently only available in the US.

Amazon Fire TV Omni QLED (2025) review: Specs

Screen type:	QLED
Refresh rate:	60Hz
HDR support:	Dolby Vision, HDR10+ Adaptive, HDR10, HLG
Smart TV:	Fire TV
HDMI ports:	4x HDMI 2.0
Built-in tuner:	ATSC 1.0

Amazon Fire TV Omni QLED (2025) review: Benchmark results

Amazon Fire TV Omni QLED (2025) review: Features

Amazon Fire TV Omni QLED (2025) rear panel ports — The Omni QLED's connections include four HDMI 2.0 ports (one with eARC) (Image credit: Future)

Hands-free Alexa+ allows for deeper control
Can be used with Alexa smart home ecosystem
Amazon Ambient Experience

The Amazon Fire TV Omni QLED Series supports both the Dolby Vision and HDR10+ adaptive high dynamic range formats, but the big feature on this TV is Amazon’s new Alexa+, a souped-up version of Alexa that allows for a higher level of flexibility and control.

For example, I’m able to not only ask for movie recommendations but also issue more basic commands like opening an app. I can even ask for things like the Philadelphia Eagles’ upcoming NFC schedule or what the weather outside is like. And I can do all this without picking up the remote control since Alexa+ is hands-free on this TV. The mic can be muted (there’s a slider under the front of the TV) if you’re worried about privacy, but otherwise, it can be used just like any other Alexa device. Alexa+ is free for Prime members but $19.99 a month if you don’t have Prime.

Since this TV has Alexa+ built in, it can be incorporated into an Alexa ecosystem. I found there were some limitations on what I could do using an Amazon Echo speaker, but I was able to turn on the TV and open apps through my Echo in my kitchen.

The other feature worth noting is the Ambient Experience. Every TV seems to now have some version of this feature, most likely due to the popularity of Samsung’s The Frame TV, and it’s also recently arrived on Amazon Fire TV devices.

Amazon’s Ambient Experience is a pretty cool feature that allows you to choose from a number of dynamic and static screens that will play when the TV is in standby mode. You can also customize it to have certain widgets displayed for time, temperature, and more. There are 2,000 free images to choose from, and you can also upload photos to display a personal photo reel. Amazon’s Omnisense sensors let the TV automatically display images when you walk into the room, and they even provide an interactive component.

Apple AirPlay is available for wireless casting from a phone or tablet to the TV, and so is Matter Casting.

Features Score: 3.5/5

Amazon Fire TV Omni QLED (2025) review: Picture quality

Amazon Fire TV Omni QLED (2025) showing image of flowers — The Omni QLED has good overall picture quality but average brightness (Image credit: Future)

Limited brightness
Full-array local dimming on all but the smallest size
Average color gamut coverage

The picture quality of the Amazon Fire TV Omni QLED Series doesn’t quite measure up to the Amazon Fire TV Omni Mini-LED, but then again it’s also cheaper. In Filmmaker Mode, we measured HDR Peak Brightness at 510 nits, compared to Omni Mini-LED’s 973 nits in the same picture preset. In Standard mode, the Omni QLED’s peak brightness was 598 nits, and fullscreen brightness was 528 nits.

Full-array local dimming, a feature that improves contrast, is provided on all sizes except the smallest (50-inch). I like to test this using images that show a black background with lighter objects on parts of the screen. With these, the TV did a good job – I didn’t notice any light blooming on the black areas.

The Omni QLED Series’ measured UHDA-P3 color gamut was 93.7% when we tested it, and 71.6% for BT.2020, both of which could be better. (Our target UHDA-P3 coverage is 95% for TVs.)

The TV’s Delta-E in Filmmaker Mode was 7, which is a worse-than-average result for picture accuracy for that preset. (The closer to zero, the better, with many TVs measuring under 3dE in Filmmaker Mode on this test.)

In real-world use, the Omni QLED Series’ picture wasn’t as bright as other TVs I’ve tested, but the picture was still crisp and vibrant, whether I was watching the animated Coco (one of my favorites for testing), an action movie, or sports.

Picture quality score: 3.5/5

Amazon Fire TV Omni QLED (2025) review: Sound quality

Limited bass
No Dolby Atmos support
Dialogue boost and volume leveler

The sound quality on the Amazon Fire TV Omni QLED Series is not going to make you skip getting one of the best soundbars. There are only 12 watts each for the speakers and the sub, so even though it can get loud, it tends to lose definition at louder volumes.

Also, there’s not much bass. You won’t get any rumble, just a mid-low-end boost. I found it to be a strange experience when testing with Deadpool & Wolverine and watching a big fight scene where none of the punches, or the score for that matter, had much weight to them.

Dolby Atmos isn’t supported, either, which is another reason to upgrade the sound with a soundbar (preferably one with a subwoofer).

I do appreciate that there’s a five-band EQ in the settings. Also in the settings are a Dialogue Boost, Dolby Dialogue Enhancer, and Volume Leveler (the last two in the TV’s advanced settings). The first two help with making dialogue clearer by boosting the frequency at which voices sit. The latter is similar to a Night Mode and works well enough at bringing up quieter parts while making louder parts quieter.

Sound quality score: 3/5

Amazon Fire TV Omni QLED (2025) review: Design

Amazon Fire TV Omni QLED (2025) support feet being attached with screwdriver — The Omni QLED uses the type of support feet typically found on more budget-oriented TVs (Image credit: Future)

Basic looks
Hidden privacy slider for built-in mic
Four HDMI ports, one with eARC

On the surface, the Amazon Fire TV Omni QLED looks like a typical budget-level TV, though its bezels are at least thin. You’ll need a Philips head screwdriver for connecting the support feet to the TV (with included screws), but that takes a very short time to install.

There’s a slider hidden on the TV’s bottom edge to mute the built-in Alexa mic for privacy. Onboard controls are limited to the slider and button to control inputs, power, and navigate some basic settings.

The Fire TV Omni QLED has four HDMI ports, one with eARC. Also on hand is an optical port, coaxial, USB, headphone jack, and an IR transmitter port.

Amazon’s remote looks the same as the one it includes with its Fire TV streaming sticks. It has a talk button if you don’t want to use the built-in mic on the TV and buttons at the bottom for Prime, Netflix, Disney+, and Peacock, along with the usual suspects. It feels pretty good in the hand with its convex back. The only other thing worth mentioning is that it takes two AAA batteries instead of being rechargeable.

Design score: 3/5

Amazon Fire TV Omni QLED (2025) review: Smart TV and menus

Amazon Fire TV Omni QLED (2025) Fire TV home page — The Amazon Fire TV home page (Image credit: Future)

Very Prime-oriented even outside of the app
Plenty of live and free content
Menu diving is mostly easy, though some HDR settings are hard to find

Since the Amazon Fire TV Omni QLED Series naturally uses the Fire TV interface, be prepared for a very Amazon Prime-centric experience. The top half of the home page consists of a rotating preview banner that autoplays both suggested content and ads that are more often than not Amazon-related.

Scrolling down past the streaming service tiles, you’ll see rows such as “Continue Watching,” “Sponsored,” and an assortment of recommendations. All the apps one could want are a download away, but a good number of the preloaded ones are Amazon ones, like Amazon Kids+ and Luna.

Plenty of content is built in – there’s a whole guide’s worth of live TV, including free channels like NFL Live, CBS, Fox, ABC News Live, NBC News Now, and more in the US.

Menu diving on the Amazon Fire TV Omni QLED was initially confusing for me since the layout of categories is a bit different than on other interfaces. That said, it was easy to navigate after a few times using it. The one gripe I do have is that while I can cycle through most of the modes in the settings, any HDR-related adjustments only become available and selectable while watching content. Even though the TV picks the right mode automatically (if auto picture mode is enabled), it would be nice to have some control over choosing the picture mode I want before starting a movie.

Smart TV & menus score: 4/5

Amazon Fire TV Omni QLED (2025) review: Gaming

Amazon Fire TV Omni QLED (2025) showing game and game controller app — The Amazon Luna app gives you plenty of cloud gaming options (Image credit: Future)

60Hz refresh rate
Game Mode
Luna app for cloud gaming

The Amazon Fire TV Omni QLED isn't anything special for console gaming. Unlike the Fire TV Omni Mini-LED, which supports up to 144Hz, this TV tops out at a 60Hz refresh rate, so you’re not going to get the smooth performance that next-gen consoles are capable of.

I do appreciate that, if TV Mode is set to Auto, it will automatically change to its Game Mode setting. This mode does a good job of letting the colors pop. I found the image to look good when using my PlayStation 5, even if the 60Hz refresh rate was a hurdle for performance.

The one somewhat bright spot is that Amazon’s Luna app provides access to cloud gaming, some of which is free or included for those with Amazon Prime. I appreciated that I could use either my phone or an external controller, which can be paired when booting up a game, for playing any of the games. I also appreciate that there was a healthy selection of games to purchase, alongside the free offerings.

Gaming score: 3/5

Amazon Fire TV Omni QLED (2025) review: Value

Amazon Fire TV Omni QLED (2025) accessories on floor — The Omni QLED's included accessories (Image credit: Future)

Cheaper than similar TVs
Sacrifices some features
Other options with Fire TV built-in

As I mentioned before, I consider the Amazon Fire TV Omni QLED Series to be an okay deal at $849.99 for a 65-inch model. Of course, this is Amazon, so you’re more likely to see regular discounts.

How does it compare? It comes with some compromises compared to other TVs that I consider to be its competition. I’ve tested two other mid-range TVs that punch well above their weight. The TCL QM6K is one that immediately comes to mind. The price of the 65-inch model is currently selling for less than the Amazon Fire TV Omni QLED reviewed here, and it supports a 144Hz refresh rate, Dolby Atmos audio, and uses a mini-LED backlight with “Halo Control technology” to minimize blooming.

There’s also the Hisense U65QF, which is also sells for less than Amazon’s TV. Like the TCL, it supports a 144Hz refresh rate and Dolby Atmos audio, and it also uses a mini-LED backlight. And with a Fire TV interface, you basically get the same smart features as the Amazon Fire TV Omni QLED.

Value score: 3/5

Amazon Fire TV Omni QLED (2025) showing image of woman — (Image credit: Future)

Amazon Fire TV Omni QLED (2025)
Attributes	Notes	Rating
Features	Hands-free Alexa, plus the souped-up, context-aware Alexa+ for deeper and smarter smart home integration	.3.5/5
Picture quality	Brightness is average and the accuracy could be better, but it at least has full-array local dimming (except the smallest size)	3.5/5
Sound quality	Sound quality is pretty limited with not much bass. The decent volume leveling and dialog boost are a nice touch	3/5
Design	Design is mostly what one would expect for a budget TV	3/5
Smart TV and menus	Be prepared for an Amazon-heavy experience with this TV, with some advanced picture settings tricky to access in menus	3.5/5
Gaming	Refresh rate is capped at 60 Hz but features the Luna app for cloud-gaming	3/5
Value	Good overall picture quality, but competition offers equally good performance and superior gaming features for the price	3/5

Should I buy the Amazon Fire TV Omni QLED (2025)?

Buy it if...

You have Prime
If you have Amazon Prime, then the souped-up Alexa+ is free. It’s definitely a unique experience turning off the TV through an Amazon Echo elsewhere in the house.

You use Alexa
The TV’s Alexa integration is something you can really take advantage of if you’re already bought into the Alexa smart home ecosystem.

Don't buy it if…

You’re a console gamer
The TV’s refresh rate is capped at 60Hz, so you won’t be getting the most out of your Playstation 5 or Xbox Series X game console.

You want Dolby Atmos
If you want a TV that supports Dolby Atmos, you’ll have to look elsewhere, or you could just buy a soundbar to use with this TV.

Also consider...

	Amazon Fire TV Omni QLED (2025)	Hisense U65QF	TCL QM6K	Roku Pro Series
Price (65-inch)	$849.99	$999	$999	$1,199
Screen type	QLED	QLED w/ mini-LED	QLED w/ mini-LED	QLED w/ mini-LED
Refresh rate	60Hz	upt to 144Hz	Up to 144Hz	120Hz
HDR support	Dolby Vision/HDR10+ Adaptive/HDR10	Dolby Vision IQ, HDR10+, HDR10, HLG	Dolby Vision IQ/HDR10+/HDR10	Dolby Vision IQ/HDR10+/HDR10
Smart TV	Fire TV	Fire TV	Google TV	Roku
HDMI ports	4 HDMI 2.0	4 (2x HDMI 2.1)	4 (2x HDMI 2.1)	4 (2x HDMI 2.1)

Hisense U65QF

The Hisense U65QF is very affordable for a mini-LED TV. It’s packed with features like Dolby Atmos, a 144Hz refresh rate, and Dolby Vision IQ. It also has Alexa built in, though not Alexa+. Finding the video settings does take some deep menu diving, and the Prime-focused interface is a bit of an acquired taste.

Read our full Hisense U65QF review

TCL QM6K

The TCL QM6K is excellent value and cheaper with discounts than the Amazon Fire TV Omni QLED Series, though it doesn’t have quite the audio quality or Alexa integration. What it does have is great picture quality with vibrant colors, good contrast, and minimal blooming.

Read our full TCL QM6K review

Roku Pro Series

The Roku Pro Series is another budget mini-LED TV that’s priced around the same as the Amazon Omni QLED, but beats it when it comes to features and design. With both 120Hz support and an ultra-low input lag, it’s also a superior gaming TV and has a more streamlined and pleasing smart interface.

Read our full Roku Pro Series review

Samsung QN900D showing test pattern — (Image credit: Future)

How I tested the Amazon Fire TV Omni QLED (2025)

I used the Amazon Fire TV Omni QLED Series for several weeks
Tested with TV, movies, music, and games
Benchmark measurements conducted by Future US testing lab

I used the Amazon Fire TV Omni QLED Series as my main TV for several weeks. I used it with TV, movies, and games. I tested the various features to see if they work as advertised. I also spent time listening to the audio as well as paying attention to the picture quality.

I’ve tested a lot of tech gear over the years, from laptops to keyboards and speakers, and so have been able to use my expertise towards giving an honest and fair opinion, not to mention a critical eye, to any product I test.

You can read an in-depth overview of how we test TVs at TechRadar at that link.

First reviewed: January 2026
Read TechRadar's reviews guarantee

I tested the ProtoArc Flexer Pro – a comfortable office chair with lumbar support that’s going to be divisive

6:15 pm | January 16, 2026

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

ProtoArc has been around for a while now, and they have a handful of items I have reviewed over the years, like their EC100 chair and a few keyboard / mice solutions. They have been impressive through and through with putting out quality gear for a shockingly low price every time.

This chair, the Flexer Pro, is no different. It had a quick and easy assembly that only took about 5 to 8 minutes to assemble, it has surpassingly breathable mesh on the backrest, featuring FlexWeave tech to cool you off on hot days or if you simply run warm like I do, and it has a great set or armrests. Right there, if those things are done well, the chair is already going to win people over. But, beyond that, this chair has some things I have never seen, such as the dual lumbar support. That’s something that even some of of my premium chairs don’t have.

Flexer Pro also excels in not being “too much” as a chair. Given it's only available in the US, and the dual lumbar support can take some time to adjust to, it's unlikely to make our round-up of the best office chairs. But it's simple and elegant in design, while still offering maximum comfort for up to 10 hours according to ProtoArc, and, in my testing, I can say that this chair surely lives up to the hype.

ProtoArc Flexer Pro: Price and availability

At the time of review, the Flexer Pro is currently on sale for $312.55 (was $399.99) on ProtoArc’s website. It's also available on Amazon.com in both black or white variants, with the former being $299 and the latter priced at $315.86.

From what I can see, the chair's only available in the US right now.

One thing that I always pay attention to for chairs like this is the warranty. After all, an office chair is an investment, even at the low- to mid-range models like this one. So, I was pleased to see ProtoArc offering a 10-year limited warranty.

ProtoArc Flexer Pro: Unboxing and First Impressions

The packaging was minimal and simple, yet enough to keep everything well-packaged, safe, and secure. As I mentioned above, this chair took a mere 5 minutes to assemble by myself. It was incredibly easy, no special tools necessary outside of what was sent with the chair, and no points of frustration.

After getting everything set up, I like how simple this chair is. A lot of chairs have a lot of things going on. The Flexer Pro keeps it simple. It’s a cushioned seat, a mesh back, good armrests. That’s the core. It’s clean, straightforward, and great for most.

ProtoArc Flexer Pro: Design & Build Quality

The dual lumbar supports are the stand-out feature of this chair for me, it seems like such a small thing, but in practice and in use, it’s super helpful to be able to add that support in two slightly different, or one larger spot on some days. I do find that some days I will adjust this and have it be slightly different, but perhaps I’m alone in that. Regardless, having that functionality in a chair at this cost is still wild to me.

Further, the cushion and backrest make for a very breathable sitting experience. As someone who runs fairly warm, I really appreciate having a chair that can breathe with me and help keep me cool even on hot days or during long working sessions.

Another thing that I really appreciate is the lack of over-the-top branding on this chair. I have some chairs that will remain unnamed, but they blast their branding everywhere, loud and proud. That ruins the professional feel of a chair immediately, so having this chair minimally branded and that is all is fantastic.

The armrests, crank tilt-tension control, seat depth slider, and 130-degree recline are all fantastic features. Again, these are features I’d love seeing on chairs worth three times as much, so seeing this in a quality chair at a budget price is a spectacular surprise.

ProtoArc Flexer Pro: In use

My team and I have rotated using this chair for the last 88 days at the time of writing. In that time, we have used it in my studio space, in some home offices and in both scenarios this chair has performed wonderfully. The chair is comfortable for even extended desk working sessions, it’s easy to kick back when we want to stand at our standing desks and if we maybe don’t get to stand that day and rather need to lay back, the 130-degree tilt makes it super comfortable and easy to grab a quick rest.

While most of our testing has been done during the harsh Midwest winter in the States, sometimes that means that with the heat on, your house is warmer than normal (depending on the person). For those days, or the harsh summer afternoons, having the mesh backrest is a wonderful two-thumbs-up for this chair. It means that I won’t stand up to find my back stuck to my shirt.

Another thing that is really nice is that since this chair doesn’t have a headrest and has a fairly compact frame, I can push this chair under my desk rather than just kicking it behind me if I am short on space or don’t want to get my chair too far away from my desk.

After three months' use, the felt still looks brand new, the mesh backrest has held up wonderfully, and the armrests still work well. No issues so far, and none in sight.

ProtoArc Flexer Pro: Final verdict

Not everyone who is looking for a chair is looking to spend thousands, or even close to a thousand. Some want a simple chair that gets the job done. The ProtoArc Flexer Pro is an easy recommendation for those people, as it’s budget-priced yet adds features you usually only see in high-end flagship chairs.

The quick assembly time is a real bonus - ProtoArc estimated it's a 10-minute job, but I did it half that time. Airflow, comfortability, and support are all good. And I'm pleased how well the chair has held up after using it for three months.

That dual lumbar support, though, may not be to everyone's tastes. I can understand that. I would've also liked to see greater availability beyond North America.

But the chair's nicely designed overall, with all the adjustability mechanisms I'd expect to find one priced this low. A solid choice for working from home or in the office.

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For more office furniture, I've tested the best standing desks.

I tested the ProtoArc Flexer Pro – a comfortable office chair with lumbar support that’s going to be divisive

6:15 pm |

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

ProtoArc Flexer Pro: Price and availability

From what I can see, the chair's only available in the US right now.

ProtoArc Flexer Pro: Unboxing and First Impressions

ProtoArc Flexer Pro: Design & Build Quality

ProtoArc Flexer Pro: In use

After three months' use, the felt still looks brand new, the mesh backrest has held up wonderfully, and the armrests still work well. No issues so far, and none in sight.

ProtoArc Flexer Pro: Final verdict

That dual lumbar support, though, may not be to everyone's tastes. I can understand that. I would've also liked to see greater availability beyond North America.

But the chair's nicely designed overall, with all the adjustability mechanisms I'd expect to find one priced this low. A solid choice for working from home or in the office.

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For more office furniture, I've tested the best standing desks.

I tested the retro Instax Mini Evo Cinema for two weeks — it’s awesome and terrible, but it still wins my heart

4:02 pm |

Author: admin | Category: Cameras Computers Gadgets Instant Cameras Video Cameras | Tags: Instax Mini | Comments: Off

Fujifilm Instax Mini Evo Cinema: Two-minute review

The Fujifilm Instax Mini Evo Cinema takes instant cameras in a new direction, and let me tell you, it’s heaps of fun. It’s a 3-in-1 digital ‘hybrid’ instant camera; being a stills camera, an instant printer and the very first Instax that shoots video.

We know the instant photography part already: the Mini Evo Cinema packs much of the same lo-fi tech as the Mini Evo – 5MP digital photos through a 28mm f/2 lens, which are saved onto micro SD, that you can select in the camera’s gallery or through a companion app to print instantly onto Instax Mini paper. In this case, the printing process uses an analog-style lift and twist lever.

But it’s the camera's design where things get really interesting. This is a nostalgic, slimline Super 8 camera-style body – which is supposedly inspired by Fujifilm’s ‘Fujica Single-8‘ from 1965 – that easily sits in the hand with the shutter button at your trigger finger.

And for me, it’s the video features that drew me in rather than the traditional Instax photography experience, even if each of the three functions seamlessly blend together.

Then there's the main event – the Eras Dial, with a look for every decade spanning the last 100 years. Fujifilm says these looks ‘pay homage to the characteristics, media and playback devices that defined that time’.

Starting with 1930 and running up to 2020, there's a distinct look for each decade, each with a scale of 1-10 for various 'expressions' of each decade, adjusting either the strength or the look of each style. So yes, that makes 100 styles, all of which work for photos and videos.

Fujifilm is no stranger to introducing never-before seen controls in its recent cameras, from the Film Mode in the fun X half to the aspect ratio dial in the serious GFX100RF, it keeps delivering surprising new features, and the Eras Dial, being at one's fingertips, is more than just a novelty.

Fujifilm Instax Mini Evo Cinema on a white wooden surface — Tim Coleman

Even videos can be shared through an Instax Mini print – the Mini Evo Cinema selects a frame from the video (or the user can manually select a frame) and prints it with a QR code for access to that clip through Fujifilm’s servers.

You can also check out and share photos and videos using the free Instax Mini Evo app, including making short video edits from your video clips (which are limited in length to 15 seconds each).

I've made my own video compilations using the Instax Mini Evo app, combining multiple clips into a 30 second montage (which is the maximum length), printed it with a QR code attached, which then seamlessly took me online to that reel. The editor is a little clunky, and the video length limitations are frustrating at times, but it's an OK experience overall.

Fujifilm Instax Mini Evo Cinema on a white wooden surface with instant prints around it — Here's the camera alongside a print for every one of the 10 decades featured in the Eras Dial. It's no coincidence that a pack of Instax Mini film produces 10 prints. (Image credit: Tim Coleman)

Inside the box, you get the camera, viewfinder eye cup for the 1.5-inch 170k-dot LCD screen (see it in action, below), a grip extension and a strap.

The Mini Evo might look toy-like, but it is in fact a premium-feel product, everything from the grip to the dials, switches and buttons feel solid.

Performance, on the other hand, during my review was pretty sluggish. I've used the camera at a launch event and again during a two week review period, and with both units the Evo Cinema's wheel of death appeared almost every time I recorded a video or switched eras, taking a few seconds to be ready to use again. A little annoying, but arguably in the spirit of retro tech.

Photographer holding the Fujifilm Instax Mini Evo Cinema camera up to their eye — The Evo Cinema handles well, and is such a clever concept - packing Instax tech into a polished, Super 8-style body (Image credit: Tim Coleman)

I actually think the Mini Evo Cinema is the most intriguing Instax camera to date – it feels like the Instax camera that the digital generation has been waiting for.

Its Super 8-style body is a perfect form to host Instax Mini printing, and the multi-media output makes this feel like a camera that'll keep my interest for much longer than a simple instant photography Instax. This is a proper good times camera.

Technically speaking, this is a poor camera. However, it already feels like the one Instax that appeals to me the most in the many years that I've been testing Fujifilm products.

If I was to sum the Mini Evo up in a single word, it would be fun. Fujifilm is having a real go at making cameras fun again with a string of quirky products, and the Evo Cinema could just top the lot.

Fujifilm Instax Mini Evo Cinema: price and release date

Costs $419 / £329 / AU$599
There's viewfinder, grip extension and strap accessories included
Sales began on January 28, 2026

The Fujifilm Instax Mini Evo Cinema went on sale globally from January 28 2026, with a price of $419 / £329 / AU$599.

In the box you'll also find the viewfinder attachment, grip extender, strap and USB-C cable. A purpose-made leather case will be available too, for $40 / £35 (about AU$65).

Fujifilm Instax Mini Evo Cinema: specs

Video	1080 x 1440 x ('2020' setting only) 600 x 800 for all others
Photo	5MP, 1/5-inch sensor
Format	Instax Mini
Lens	28mm f/2
Autofocus	Yes
Screen	Fixed 1.5-inch, 170k dots
Viewfinder	A clip-on viewfinder is supplied for the screen
Dimensions	39.4 mm x 132.5 mm x 100.1 mm (excluding projecting parts)
Weight	270g (excluding film pack and recording media)

Fujifilm Instax Mini Evo Cinema: design

Fabulous Super 8-style body
A pack of Instax Mini film slots inside
Retro controls and a charming Eras Dial

Design is easily the strong side of the Evo Cinema – it's a charming, Super 8-style camera with versatile 3-in-1 skills; digital photos, video, and instant printing.

The body is particularly slimline and designed to be held vertically. With a pistol-like grip, your index finger naturally rests on the shutter button, like a trigger. You press it to take photos, or press and hold to shoot video, with a maximum clip length of 15 seconds. You can customize to a single press to record video too, but I preferred the authentic press and hold for video recording, not least of which to avoid accidental recordings.

Fujifilm provides a grip extension with the camera, but honestly I could take or leave it – because it hardly impacts the camera’s handling. What is a useful accessory, however, is the viewfinder eyecup, which comes included. It attaches magnetically and clicks into place over the tiny 1.5-inch LCD screen, which isn’t touch sensitive by the way, enabling a clear view in bright light, but again more for an authentic Super 8-like shooting experience.

There are several buttons and controls around the camera worth mentioning, one of which is a lift and twist lever used for instant printing – it’s easy to forget that this slim camera can hold a pack of Instax Mini film inside for instant photo prints. A single pack of 10 prints will set you back around $9 dollars or £8 pounds.

Another control is the digital zoom lever – I rarely used this because the Mini Evo Cinema’s image quality is sketchy at best already, but more on this later.

The 28mm f/2 lens is a moderate wide angle optic, with a similar perspective to the main camera on your smartphone, and it has a ring around it which can scroll through color profiles. Above the lens is a selfie mirror which is barely helpful, plus a tiny LED flash light which is useful for indoor party portraits, even if it’s not very powerful.

The Eras Dial starts in the 1930s with a grainy monochrome, the 1990s is the old school handicam look, while 2020 is a crisp quality like today’s smartphones. Gimmicky? Maybe for some, but not for me – this is such a fun feature that I kept coming back to.

It might appear toy-like, but once you get to grips with the Mini Evo, you realise that it's a well-made, well-thought out camera. I really believe Fujifilm has faithfully brought a fabulous concept into life.

Fujifilm Instax Mini Evo Cinema: performance

100 color profiles inspired by decades past and present
Poor image quality and limited video clip length
Sluggish operation

On the flipside to design, performance is surely the Mini Evo Cinema's weakness – and in that sense it is fully committed to its retro roots!

Having used the Mini Evo previously, I expected poor image quality, especially since the basic sensor hardware is essentially the same as the original Mini Evo. Put simply, don’t expect excellent photo quality – the camera shoots lo-fi five megapixel JPEG photos through that 28mm lens, which are then saved onto micro SD.

From the camera’s gallery, you can then select which images you’d like to print instantly onto Instax Mini paper, using that analog-style lift and twist lever.

Video quality is equally lo-fi at just HD 720p, unless you have the high-resolution option active specifically for the 2020 Eras Dial setting alone, where video resolution can be doubled to 1440p. A frustrating, needless limitation on quality? Not so – it’s authentic.

I prefer the digital hybrid setup to a fully analog instant camera – where the camera prints immediately on capture, whether it’s a ‘good’ photo or not. With a Mini Evo you pick the shot you like for printing, meaning less wasted prints. Sure, it’s not one for analog purists, but I’d rather not waste my money on throwaway prints.

One frustrating experience using the Mini Evo Cinema is its slow operation. Every time you change a setting, or take a photo or video, a spinny wheel of doom pops up on screen as the camera makes those changes or processes images before it’s ready to operate again. The wait is even longer after recording video clips.

I’ve had two samples of the camera, and had the same issue with both. One time, the camera completely froze up, and the only solution was to leave it be until the battery fully drained. Once I charged it up and turned it back on, all seemed well again.

These issues could be bugs with the current firmware, that could be addressed in the future, but I’d be remiss not to mention them.

In one sense, using the Evo Cinema with all its performance-related issues is frustrating, but then I stop and think about the kind of camera that it is, and I can't help but embrace those flaws.

Sample photos – 1930 through to 2020

Fujifilm Instax Mini Evo Cinema sample gallery: female model in studio — 1930Tim Coleman

The 10 photos above cover each of the 10 settings in the Eras Dial, from 1930 to 2020. I kept the 'expressions' control to its auto setting rather than experiment with the 10 different looks available for each of the decades on the dial. Stills are recorded as JPEGs onto microSD, at 1920 x 2560 pixels.

Sample video – 100 years in a minute

@techradar
♬ original sound - TechRadar

I repeated the process for video, capturing each of the 10 Eras Dial looks. The lo-fi video quality is captured at 600 x 800 pixels for every setting except 2020, which is a higher quality 1080 x 1440 pixels.

Should I buy the Fujifilm Instax Mini Evo Cinema?

Buy it if...

You want a versatile retro camera
With 3-in-1 skills and well-made Super 8-style body, the Mini Evo Cinema is the retro camera to getView Deal

You love the lo-fi look
With poor quality stills and video but in a range of era-inspired styles, there are plenty of looks to sink your teeth intoView Deal

Don't buy it if...

You're looking for top quality and performance
Images are lo-fi, operation can be slow – this is retro in every senseView Deal

You simply want video or photo
If you're looking for an instant camera only, or on the flipside a video camera only, there are low cost alternativesView Deal

Fujifilm Instax Mini Evo Cinema: also consider

Fujifilm Instax Mini Evo

Think of the Mini Evo as the same photo-making and instant printing camera, only without the video skills or retro Super 8 design. Instead, you have a compact body, and for around half the price.

See our Insta Mini Evo reviewView Deal

Camp Snap CS-8

If the Mini Evo Cinema's video skills appeal and the instant printing less so, then check out the Camp Snap CS-8, another lo-fi Super 8-style digital camera. It focuses on video, plus it costs much less

Read our Camp Snap CS-8 reviewView Deal

How I tested the Fujifilm Instax Mini Evo Cinema

I attend a pre-launch Evo Cinema event for an two hour session. Fujifilm consequently sent me the camera for a two week loan period
I used it with the viewfinder and grip accessories, and I tried all the Eras Dial settings for photo and video
I've printed Instax Mini prints and edited content through the app

I've spent two weeks with the Evo Cinema, which has given me plenty of time to get a feel for how it handles and performs.

At a two hour launch event, I recorded the same video in a studio of a model, using every one of the 10 Eras Dial settings, and repeated that process for photos, printing out each one.

I've since experimented with the various expressions of each decade, taken more photos and videos both indoors and outdoors, in good light and bad.

I've tried the Evo Cinema with and without its viewfinder and grip accessories. The optional case was not supplied to me for the review.

I also made video montages using the basic video editor in the free Mini Evo Cinema app, and printed the QR code for access to those clips.

First reviewed: January 2026
Read more about how we test

I watched The RIP on Netflix — Ben Affleck and Matt Damon’s new movie commits too many crimes to be considered a genre great

3:00 am |

Author: admin | Category: Computers Gadgets Netflix Streaming | Comments: Off

Light spoilers follow for The RIP.

I'm a big fan of movies where Ben Affleck and Matt Damon co-star. I've greatly enjoyed films in which just one of them appears, but there's no denying that projects they're both in – Good Will Hunting, Dogma, and Air to name three – have a certain magic about them.

Color me intrigued, then, when the first trailer for The RIP, the first movie in almost three years they share screentime in, dropped in late 2025. A crime thriller with a talented cast and seemingly twisty-turny plot, it bore the tell-tale signs of being Netflix's next hit movie.

Enjoyable as the ride is, though, The RIP is simply a serviceable film. While engaging up to a point, it lacks originality and the shock value storytelling necessary to stand out from the genre pack.

Are we the good guys?

Dane shining a flashlight behind a secret gap in an attic hall as J.D looks on in The RIP — Damon and Affleck lead The RIP's all-star cast (Image credit: Netflix)

Inspired by true events, The RIP introduces us to Lieutenant Dane Dumars (Damon) and Sergeant J.D. Byrne (Affleck), who spearhead a crime-busting taskforce known as the Tactical Narcotics Team – or T.N.T for short – in Miami, Florida.

When an anonymous stash house tip-off comes in one evening, Dane rounds up the troops – J.D, Mike Ro (Steven Yeun), Numa Baptiste (Teyana Taylor), and Lolo Salazar(Catalina Sandino Moreno) – to investigate. Arriving at a property where the skittish Desi (Sasha Calle) lives, the group soon discovers an eye-bulging $20 million haul hidden in the attic.

The suspicious nature displayed by each character is what'll keep you engaged

Considering the size of the stash, it's not long before trust and tempers start to fray over whether they should call it in or, for reasons that become clear later, pocket the money. And, when outside forces – the DEA, a local cartel, and another mysterious faction – become aware of what's been found, Dane, J.D., and co. must establish who they can rely on and if they'll even survive until morning.

Lolo and Numa sorting through stacks of cash in the basement of a house in The RIP — Lolo and Numa aren't given much to do in Netflix's latest crime thriller (Image credit: Netflix)

So, The RIP is yet another examination of institutional corruption within the law enforcement service? In a nutshell, yes. As with any tale involving crooked cops, though, the suspicious nature displayed by each character is what'll keep you engaged throughout its near-two-hour runtime as you try to determine who'll betray whom.

The RIP's unexpected turn... will surprise some viewers, but I expected more from it

That said, The RIP would've better sustained the momentum of this particular brain-tickler if it weren't hell-bent on positioning Dane as the officer who appears to be behind the money-stealing suggestion.

Indeed, The RIP's trailers and its first act go to great lengths to install him as the prime suspect. Spoilers notwithstanding, things aren't as simple as they appear. Nonetheless, I would've been more invested in trying to solve the mystery before the third act's grand reveal if The RIP had actively explored the duplicitous nature and motives of other T.N.T. members much earlier, and in more depth, than it does.

Steven Yeun's Mike Ro sitting opposite Scott Adkins' Del Byrne in Netflix's The RIP — Can Mike be trusted? You'll have to watch The RIP to find out (Image credit: Netflix)

Whether it's through characters' actions or serpentine narratives, similar genre fare like Prisoners, Memento, and Gone Girl – ironically, the last of that trio also stars Affleck – and classic whodunits keep you guessing from the get-go and/or right up to their climax.

Try though it might to elicit the same sort of jaw-dropping response when its big twist happens, The RIP hasn't built up the necessary tension to draw such a reaction when the time comes. It doesn't fall flat per se, and I'm sure the unexpected turn will surprise some viewers, but I expected more from a movie whose primary intention is to entertain via the unpredictability and apparent unreliability of someone within the T.N.T's ranks.

Acting on impulse

J.D and Dane looking at a mobile phone while standing in a garage at night in Netflix's The RIP — Affleck and Damon give typically great performances in The RIP (Image credit: Netflix)

So, The RIP is sorely lacking in the storytelling department, but what about the performance of its star-studded cast?

Damon and Affleck's on-screen chemistry shines as bright as ever

As if it were ever in doubt, Damon and Affleck's on-screen chemistry is as engrossing as ever. The effortlessly natural rapport they exhibit ensures that Dane and J.D's bond is as tight and magnetic as the actors' own relationship. The pair bounce off one another with ease throughout, as their testosterone-driven characters butt heads with their superiors – and each other – in spicy and dicey circumstances.

The RIP's leads are ably backed up by their fellow actors, with Yeun and Calle giving particularly compelling performances. However, other prominent supporting cast members, Moreno and 2026 Golden Globe winner Taylor, are underused, with their characters occasionally being sidelined by the direction of the plot.

Sasha Calle's Desi looking behind herself while handcuffed to and seated on a chair in The RIP — Desi has more than a bit-part to play in one of 2026's new Netflix movies (Image credit: Netflix)

Additionally, I wish there had been more scope to develop the dynamics between the group's ensemble. Doing so would've gone a long way to explain each individual's actions, and further ratcheted up the tension and melodrama when accusations begin to fly as near-total mistrust sets in.

In fact, barring The RIP's examination of Dane and J.D's brotherhood, it's J.D and his FBI-employed brother Del's (Scott Adkins) topsy-turvy relationship that's arguably scrutinized in more detail than Dane and/or J.D's associations with their fellow T.N.T members. That might not matter to some, but it's an oversight I struggled to look past.

If it's action you want alongside – or instead of – your crime-based thrills, The RIP is a tad undercooked in that department. Indeed, the first of its slim gun-toting and vehicle chase sequences doesn't materialize until an hour has passed. Even then, while they're undeniably adrenaline-fuelled, the gunplay and rubber-burning set-pieces aren't as chaotic or seat-gripping as I'd hoped.

My verdict

No matter how you slice it, The RIP feels like a star-powered movie that was tailor-made for the Netflix generation. That being, a safe, not-so-memorable film that its so-called 'second screen-viewing' fanbase will enjoy for what it is before moving on to the next thing the Netflix algorithm suggests for them.

It's certainly not the worst film I've watched on the world's best streaming service – far from it, in fact. But, whether it was down to my heightened expectations for the latest Damon/Affleck venture, or myriad other reasons, it just didn't click for me – and that is a crime in and of itself.

The RIP launches worldwide on Netflix on Friday, January 16.

This Nintendo Switch 2 case doubles up as a cross-body bag, and I kinda love it

2:30 am |

Author: admin | Category: Computers Consoles & PC Gadgets Gaming Gaming Accessories Nintendo | Tags: Nintendo Switch | Comments: Off

Hori Adventure Pack for Nintendo Switch 2: review

It’s no secret that the Nintendo Switch 2 is an expensive piece of kit, so if you recently got your hands on one, it’s crucial to keep it protected. So, in steps the Hori Adventure Pack for Nintendo Switch 2 – a sturdy cross-body case that’s licensed by Nintendo itself.

This model is a little different from others I’ve tested, due to its versatile design. It can be held like a typical case, thanks to a built-in handle, which adjusts automatically as you lift it up. But there’s also a strap that enables you to wear the Adventure Pack like a cross-body bag. You can change the tightness of the fit to suit you, and it works pretty well. Personally, I don’t think this looks all too stylish, but if you need free hands, the strap is a welcome option. When you don’t want to use said strap, it can easily slot into a mesh fabric pouch on the reverse side of the case, ensuring that it looks tidy at all times.

A big positive of the Hori Adventure Pack is its generous storage space. It’s a little too small to hold your console, dock, and all the wires – well, you could cram them all in, but it’s going to be a very tight squeeze. Still, there’s plenty of room for your console inside, and the case’s outer pocket is large enough to house some of the best Nintendo Switch 2 accessories.

Woman opening the Hori Adventure Pack for Nintendo Switch 2 — (Image credit: Future)

There’s a specific pouch to hold your Nintendo Switch 2 console with the Joy-Con 2 controllers attached. It’s a touch narrow, so you’ll have to carefully place your system inside, but there is a velcro strap to keep it secure. You’ll also find six game cartridge slots inside the case – not the highest amount I’ve seen, but enough for a short trip away, for example.

Looks-wise, the Hori Adventure Pack is decent. It has a rubber-like handle and upper half, which looks fairly stylish, but is susceptible to picking up dust and marks. The rest of the case is made up of a scratch-resistant fabric and a net to conceal the carry strap. It comes in all black and isn’t anything flashy, but it will suit those who prefer an understated aesthetic.

Is this the most sturdy case I’ve tested? Well, perhaps not – it doesn’t have the tough exterior of the Nacon Protection Case XL for Nintendo Switch 2, say. But it’s still a pretty resilient model. It has a padded, robust feel to it, and when I dropped the case from waist height, there weren’t any signs of damage.

Strap on the reverse side of the Hori Adventure Pack for Nintendo Switch 2 — (Image credit: Future)

Let’s finish things off by talking about value. This case is typically priced at $34.99 / £26.99 / AU$54.95, which is reasonable given the amount of storage space on offer and the versatility of its design. I’ve also seen Hori's Adventure Pack go on sale in some territories, with its price dropping as low as £18.89 on My Nintendo Store in the UK.

Considering that the official Nintendo Switch 2 Carrying Case will set you back $39.99 / £20.99 / AU$39.95 – a stylish choice, but one that has a lot less storage space – I think you’re getting good bang for your buck from the Adventure Pack. All things considered, then, this is a strong case from Hori, and its combination of a unique design with a modest price tag ensures that it's well worth considering.

Hori Adventure Pack for Nintendo Switch 2 review: price & specs

Price	$34.99 / £26.99 / AU$54.95
Dimensions	12.6 x 5.7 x 3.9 inches / 320 x 146 x 100mm
Weight	0.7lbs / 300g
Number of game card slots	6
Compartments	4
Handle	Yes
Color	Black

Hori Adventure Pack for Nintendo Switch 2 on table — (Image credit: Future)

Should you buy the Hori Adventure Pack for Nintendo Switch 2?

Attributes	Notes	Rating
Design	Versatile build, sturdy feel, solid look, but not the most flashy and can pick up marks.	4/5
Storage	Plenty for console and accessories, OK amount of game slots, not enough room to house dock.	4/5
Value	Comes at a modest price considering its robust build and generous storage.	4/5

Buy it if…

You want a bag-style case
Perhaps the most enticing aspect of the Hori Adventure Pack is its ability to double up as a traditional case with a handle, while also serving as a cross-body bag. That versatility makes it incredibly practical when taking your Switch 2 on the go.

You want to store your accessories too
Unlike the official Nintendo Switch 2 case, there’s plenty of room in the Hori Adventure Pack to store a few accessories, such as the Hori USB Camera for Nintendo Switch 2.

Don’t buy it if…

You need room for your Switch 2 dock
Although you can pack a few accessories into this case, it’s not really ideal for housing your dock. I tried inserting mine, and although it just about fit inside, the fit was realistically too tight. If you want a case that does it all, your best option is the official Nintendo Switch 2 All-In-One Carrying Case.

You’re looking for something flashy
This case isn’t the most eye-catching or premium-looking, although it’s certainly very practical. If you want something sleek and colorful, then I’d suggest checking out the Belkin Charging Case for Nintendo Switch 2.

Hori Adventure Pack for Nintendo Switch 2: also consider

Nintendo Switch 2 Carrying Case & Screen Protector
This slim and stylish case is still one of my favorites, and my go-to if I’m not taking my dock on the go. It doesn’t have as much storage space as this Hori model, but it’s lightweight and sturdy, and even comes with a basic screen protector.

Read our full Nintendo Switch 2 Carrying Case & Screen Protector review.

Nacon Protection Case XL for Nintendo Switch 2
This one’s not available in the US or Australia, but if you’re in the UK, it’s a top-tier option. With a sturdy build, enough room for your dock and system, and plenty of game card slots, it really is the full package. It’s very cheap for the amount of storage space available, which helped to earn it a stellar four-and-a-half-star review.

Read our full Nacon Protection Case XL for Nintendo Switch 2 review.

Hori Adventure Pack for Nintendo Switch 2 review: how I tested

Reverse side of the Hori Adventure Pack for Nintendo Switch 2 — (Image credit: Future)

Tested over the course of multiple days
Took it with me to the office and on walks
Trialled by a Nintendo Switch 2 owner and life-long gamer

I took my Switch 2 on the go inside the Hori Adventure Pack for multiple days in a row. During this time, I also packed in a couple of accessories and made sure to try out both the handle and strap carrying methods.

In order to get a measure of this case’s durability, I dropped it from various distances and also gave the exterior a good scratch. After this, I checked for any wear and tear to ensure the model was as sturdy as advertised. I also compared this case to rivals on aspects like storage space and looks.

More generally, I’m a day-one Nintendo Switch 2 owner, a lifelong gamer, and an experienced tech reviewer with a ton of experience with Switch 2 accessories. I’ve trialled a range of products, including cases, but also screen protectors like the DBrand Prism 2.0, and cameras, like the Hori Piranha Plant Camera for Nintendo Switch 2.

Sony FE 100mm f/2.8 Macro GM OSS: One-minute review

Sony launched its original FE 90mm f/2.8 Macro G OSS back in 2015, just two years after the company revealed its innovative A7 full-frame mirrorless camera to the world.

While the Sony FE 90mm f/2.8 Macro G OSS has been a reliable macro lens for Sony macro photographers, it’s been the only first-party Sony option for over a decade, so all eyes were on Sony when it announced its new Sony FE 100mm f/2.8 Macro GM OSS in September last year.

I was lucky enough to get my hands on a review sample, as well as a Sony A7R V with its large 61MP full-frame sensor, so I was able to zoom into its huge images to assess the new FE 100mm f/2.8 Macro's sharpness and image quality.

A product shot of the Sony FE 100mm f/2.8 Macro GM OSS attached to a Sony A7R IV outdoors on a metal garden table with a blurry background — (Image credit: Dan Mold)

As a lover of macro photography who regularly shoots everything from close-ups of interesting textures to insects and mushrooms to pocket watches, I was particularly keen to see how the new Sony FE 100mm f/2.8 Macro GM OSS performed.

At $1,498 / £1,399 / AU$2,599 it's among the most expensive consumer full-frame macro lenses on the market, and 70% more expensive than its predecessor. So should owners of the now decade-old Sony FE 90mm f/2.8 Macro G OSS rush out to buy one?

Simply put, no. The older, more affordable version will suffice for the majority of casual shooters. However, for serious professionals shooting on Sony systems the Sony FE 100mm f/2.8 Macro GM OSS will be well worth the high asking price, delivering as it does incredible image quality, rock-steady stabilization, 1.4x magnification and teleconverter compatibility.

Simply put, it's the best Sony lens for macro photography fans, though you'll have to be prepared to put a sizable dent in your wallet to get one.

Sony FE 100mm f/2.8 Macro GM OSS: Price and availability

Priced at $1,499 / £1,399 / AU$2,599
ALC-SH173 lens hood and soft case included
Announced in September 2025

The Sony FE 100mm f/2.8 Macro GM OSS retails for $1,499 / £1,399 / AU$2,599, and is the successor to the now decade-old Sony FE 90mm f/2.8 Macro G OSS, which can be picked up now for around $1,050 / £819, though this price hasn’t changed all that much since it was released back in 2015. The Sony FE 100mm f/2.8 Macro GM OSS was always going to be a more expensive option with new tech, advanced features and more modern conveniences, and it works out 70% more expensive in the UK, or around 40% more expensive in the US.

Is it worth the extra money? For casual shooters probably not, but for serious working pros I think the extra upgrades, better stabilization and stunning image quality make it good value for money. It’s also a much stronger competitor to the Canon RF 100mm F2.8L Macro IS USM, which Canon users have been enjoying since April 2021, and a true competitor for which has been sorely missed in Sony’s range up until now.

For those on tighter budgets there is of course the original Sony FE 90mm f/2.8 Macro G OSS. There are also third-party options like the Sigma 105mm f/2.8 Macro DG DN Art and Tamron 90mm f/2.8 Di III Macro VXD – while both of these lack optical image stabilization, they are considerably cheaper, and will be a better choice for those on stricter budgets looking to get into macro photography.

Sony FE 100mm f/2.8 Macro GM OSS: Specs

Sony FE 100mm f/2.8 Macro GM OSS specs
Type:	Macro lens
Mount:	Sony FE
Sensor:	Full-frame
Focal length:	100mm
Max aperture:	f/2.8
Minimum focus:	0.26m
Filter size:	67mm
Dimensions:	81.4 x 147.9mm
Weight:	22.7oz / 646g

Sony FE 100mm f/2.8 Macro GM OSS: Design

Focus ring has a clutch mechanism to switch between AF/MF and Full AF quickly
Switches on lens barrel for focus distance limiter, OSS, iris ring lock and declicking
Quite long for a 100mm macro lens, measuring 147.9mm
Built to be compatible with Sony's 1.4x and 2x teleconverters

The Sony FE 100mm f/2.8 Macro GM is very similar in terms of size and weight to the older FE 90mm f/2.8 Macro G OSS, although it has the benefit of being a little more zoomed in at 100mm, and offers a higher maximum magnification of 1.4x over the older optics’ standard 1:1 life-size reproduction ratio, so macro lovers will be able to get even closer. It’s about 7% heavier at 646g and is 2.4mm wider in diameter, and it’s about 17mm longer. So far, it’s bigger and better in every way.

I have no issues with the lens being a little larger; it feels really nice and secure in the hand, and the large focus ring, which is about 1.5 inches wide, is perfectly positioned for your thumb and forefinger to wrap around. Like the old model, the new macro lens uses a push/pull clutch, allowing you to push or pull the entire focus ring to quickly switch between AF/MF and Full MF.

There's also an AF/MF switch on the side of the lens barrel, which shouldn’t create quite as much motion. The manual-focus ring also has a focus distance scale on the lens barrel, which comes in handy when you want to specifically dial in a magnification such as 1:1 life-size, or go even closer.

Other switches on the side of the lens include a full-time DMF toggle to enable the Direct Manual Focus to override the autofocus when needed, which I found to be very useful. There’s also a focus limiter switch which can be set to Full, 0.26-0.7m or 0.5m to infinity to speed up autofocus operation when you know you’re working with subjects either very close or far away, as it prevents the camera from hunting outside the set range.

There’s also a dedicated switch for enabling OSS (Optical Steady Shot), Sony's optical image stabilization tech. It’s rated for 4-4.5 stops on the FE 100mm f/2.8 Macro, which is an improvement over the 3-4 stops you got with the older model. Even more stabilization can be achieved with Sony bodies that have sensor-based IBIS, though Sony doesn’t give an exact figure of how much stabilization can be achieved.

To add context, both of Sony’s lenses are the only optically stabilized macro lenses for Sony FE mount – as mentioned, the Sigma 105mm f/2.8 Macro DG DN Art and Tamron 90mm f/2.8 Di III Macro VXD don’t have optical stabilization, though they are considerably more affordable as a result.

Also on the outside of the lens barrel you’ll find an iris ring to control the aperture, which can be locked in the ‘A’ position if you prefer to set this via the camera body. The aperture click can also be enabled or disabled via a switch – helpful for videographers who prefer a smooth action when filming. We’re also treated to two customizable focus-hold buttons on the side of the lens barrel.

As one of Sony’s top-flight G Master lenses, the Sony FE 100mm f/2.8 Macro GM is of course weather sealed, and to that end there's a rubber seal around the metal lens mount.

In the box you’ll also find its ALC-SH173 lens hood, and a soft case to keep it protected when stored or in transit.

Sony 2x Teleconverter — (Image credit: Dan Mold)

A rather odd feature that I’m glad to see included on the new Sony lens, and one I can’t recall seeing on other recent macro lenses, is the ability to use the Sony FE 100mm f/2.8 Macro GM with Sony’s SEL14TC and SEL20TC teleconverters to extend its macro capabilities even further.

While I don’t think this is essential, I do think some wildlife and nature photographers who already own these extenders for long telephoto lenses will benefit greatly and get extra use out of them. However, more casual shooters will probably still find better value in a set of extension tubes that usually cost around $100 compared to the SEL14TC and SEL20TC which both cost $598 / £479 / AU$799 and also allow you to get closer to your subject.

That said, as somebody who owns a 180mm f/2.8 macro lens, I can see the merit of using a 2x teleconverter as a cheaper and more convenient alternative to owning a telephoto macro lens as well as a 100mm one.

Sony FE 100mm f/2.8 Macro GM OSS: Performance

Excellent image quality but autofocus not the fastest
OSS makes it easier to shoot handheld close-up photos
1.4x magnification and teleconverter support make it easier to get closer

As one of Sony’s top-flight G Master lenses you’d expect the Sony FE 100mm f/2.8 Macro GM to deliver a solid performance, and I’m delighted to say that this is very much the case.

Considering that the lens has not one, but four of Sony’s XD Extreme Dynamic linear motors the autofocus wasn’t the snappiest I’ve ever seen from a mirrorless lens. Instead it took a little moment to smoothly transition the focus, although this will perhaps be preferred by videographers.

That said, Sony claims the autofocus is 1.9x faster than its predecessor so it's still a decent improvement, and the autofocus was accurate once it acquired the subject. I also found it invaluable to have the ability to pull the focus clutch ring to engage full-time manual focus at any time.

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A test shot with the Sony FE 100mm f/2.8 Macro GM OSS showing its macro capabilities on some outdoor subjects — (Image credit: Dan Mold)

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Image quality is excellent, with the lens employing both flourine and Nano AR II coatings on the front element to make it oil and water-repellent, and to counter flare when shooting towards a light source. The lens features 17 elements arranged in 13 groups, two of which are XA (extreme aspherical) elements and two of which are ED (Extra-low Dispersion) elements.

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Close-up test shot of a dachshund with the Sony FE 100mm f/2.8 Macro GM OSS lens and Sony A7R IV — (Image credit: Dan Mold)

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Close-up test shot of a dachshund with the Sony FE 100mm f/2.8 Macro GM OSS lens and Sony A7R IV camera body — (Image credit: Dan Mold)

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Of course, depth of field is limited when shooting close-up at f/2.8; however in-focus areas of images look very sharp, even when shooting wide open. Flare was controlled well, contrast was punchy, and images were free from chromatic aberration. The sharpness of the lens was able to meet the resolution of the 61MP Sony A7R IV I tested it with, producing beautifully clean images with virtually no distortion or vignetting.

In my tests shooting handheld I was able to take sharp shots at around 4-4.5 stops slower than would normally be required, though this was paired with a Sony A7R IV, which has sensor-based IBIS that also helps. This meant that where a shutter speed of 1/100 sec was required to take a sharp shot I was able to lower my ISO or close the aperture until my shutter speed was 1/5 sec and still get a usably sharp image when shooting handheld – impressive!

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A comparison shot taken with the Sony FE 100mm f/2.8 Macro GM OSS lens showing with and without the Sony 2x teleconverter — This test shot of some snowdrops was taken with the Sony FE 100mm f/2.8 Macro GM OSS without the teleconverter attached (Image credit: Dan Mold)

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Should you buy the Sony FE 100mm f/2.8 Macro GM OSS?

Buy it if...

You want to upgrade from the Sony FE 90mm f/2.8 Macro G OSS

The new Sony FE 100mm f/2.8 Macro GM OSS has plentiful upgrades that make it the ultimate macro lens for Sony shooters.

You're a working professional

As one of Sony's top-flight G Master lenses, the 100mm optic is expensive but can deliver for working pros shooting close-ups of still life setups, nature and product photography.

You need teleconverter compatibility

The Sony FE 100mm f/2.8 Macro GM OSS has been designed to work with Sony's 1.4x and 2x teleconverters, effectively turning the lens into a 140mm f/3.5 or 200mm f/5.6 respectively.

Don't buy it if...

You're on a budget

This is one of the most expensive macro lenses on the market, so Sony's older FE 90mm f/2.8 Macro G OSS or third-party options will be a better choice for those on stricter budgets.

You don't need the extra magnification

Sony's new macro lens can go to 1.4x magnification, but the old Sony FE 90mm macro can go to 1x magnification, which is still perfectly suitable for close life-size macro shots.

You need a portrait lens

If you're looking for a short telephoto lens for portraiture the Sony FE 100mm will do a decent job, but it's not your best bet. A lens such as an 85mm f/1.4, or 135mm f/1.8 will give you the faster apertures needed for artfully blurred backgrounds.View Deal

How I tested the Sony FE 100mm f/2.8 Macro GM OSS

I used the lens for a month, capturing close-up shots of nature as well as controlled still-life setups at home
I paired it with the 61MP Sony a7R IV full-frame body, zooming in on images to assess resolution and clarity
I took shots throughout the aperture range, focusing up close and further away, and used the lens with Sony's 2x teleconverter

I used the Sony FE 100mm f/2.8 Macro GM OSS with a Sony A7R IV for a month to give the lens a thorough testing over an extended period. Sony also kindly loaned me its SEL20TC 2x teleconverter, and I also took test shots with this sandwiched between the lens and camera body to see what difference it made.

The lens became my go-to for taking close-up shots over this time, and in particular when we had a cold snap in the UK, where I'm based – I loved heading out with it to capture stunning details of frost patterns and ice.

I took a range of pictures with in-camera lens corrections both enabled and disabled to see the difference. I also shot in raw and JPEG formats, and shot at all of the various apertures to gauge how things like corner sharpness and vignetting changed throughout the range.

First reviewed January 2026

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