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Goldring’s G3 turntable is all about style and convenience, but there’s one aspect I wish I could switch off…
2:00 pm | January 10, 2026

Author: admin | Category: Audio Computers Gadgets Hi-Fi Turntables | Comments: Off

Goldring GR3 turntable: two-minute review

Just two decades or so since it last had a turntable in its product line-up, Goldring is back. The GR3 has been developed in collaboration with acknowledged experts and it really looks the part in a ‘black high-gloss lacquer’ sort of way.

It’s got plenty going for it where specification is concerned, too. This is a belt-drive turntable with manual speed-change, and it arrives with a very capable Goldring E3 pre-fitted and pre-adjusted moving magnet cartridge at the end of the aluminium tube tonearm. It’s supplied with a couple of pairs of QED cables to make plugging it into a system as painless as can be. And it’s fitted with an internal phono stage to ensure it is compatible with as wide a range of systems as possible – if the phono stage had an ‘off’ switch it could be fair to say the GR3 has everything you could possibly expect or require.

Connected to an appropriate system, the Goldring GR3 is an articulate, informative and confident listen with just enough drive and attack to stop it sounding leisurely. Dynamic headroom, soundstaging and timing all impress, and the amount of detail the GR3 can extract from the groove is also noteworthy.

In a slightly less appropriate system, though, the latent high-frequency stridency the Goldring hints at becomes a little more evident – a minor lack of treble substance can become apparent. When weighed against all the things that are enjoyable about the GR3 sound, though, ‘minor’ is the word to bear in mind and it bears serious consideration to sit among the best turntables available.

Goldring GR3 turntable, with the dustcover closed, as part of a sound system setup on a wooden surface

(Image credit: Future / Simon Lucas)

Goldring GR3 turntable review: price and release date

  • $1,299 / £699 / AU$1,599 (approx.)
  • Launched in October 2025

The Goldring GR3 launched towards the end of October 2025, and in the United States it's priced at $1,299. In the United Kingdom it goes for £699, while in Australia it will set you back around AU$1,599.

Goldring GR3 turntable review: features

  • Low-vibration belt drive motor
  • Integrated phono stage
  • Pre-fitted Goldring E3 moving magnet cartridge

The plain fact is that the Goldring GR3 has a few more features than is the norm where a record player costing this sort of money is concerned. So where has that half-a-star gone from the ‘features’ score below? I’ll get to that, but for now let’s establish what’s what.

The motor that moves the belt that spins the platter is a low-noise, low-vibration design. The tonearm is a 237mm one-piece aluminum tube with a three-point arm mounting system - and it’s pre-fitted with an extremely well-regarded Goldring E3 moving magnet cartridge, a design that’s well on the way to becoming a classic.

The GR3 is also supplied with two pairs of relatively high-quality interconnects, manufactured by Goldring’s sister company QED. One is a 1.5mm stereo RCA design, the other a 3.5mm / stereo RCA alternative, so connecting the GR3 to a full-size system or a pair of powered speakers should be no problem.

The Goldring’s stereo RCA outputs are fed by an integrated phono stage, and it’s here that the GR3’s final half-a-star goes astray. I’m absolutely in favor of record players with integrated phono stages, don’t get me wrong; it makes for ultimate flexibility, and it means the deck can slot into pretty much any system you care to mention. But the phono stage here is always on and cannot be switched off, so if you own a system with a phono stage of its own (and surely any number of people ready to spend $1,299 on a record player must do), you must avoid your own phono stage for the one fitted here. You don’t even get to compare and contrast.

Just a simple ‘on/off’ switch is all that’s required, Goldring. Is it too much to ask?

  • Features score: 4.5/5

Closeup of a pre-fitted Goldring E3 moving magnet cartridge for the Goldring GR3 turntable

(Image credit: Future / Simon Lucas)

Goldring GR3 turntable review: Sound quality

  • Tremendous rhythmic positivity
  • Extracts plenty of fine detail
  • Lacks a little top-end substance

There are some aspects of audio reproduction at which well-sorted turntables seem to excel. And the Goldring GR3 is almost a caricature of a record player in this respect; the areas where it’s at its most convincing and most enjoyable are all textbook turntable strengths.

Take rhythmic expression, for instance. The GR3 manages the low frequencies during a listen to Patti Smith’s Horses with absolute confidence, closely observing the attack and decay of individual bass sounds so that rhythms and tempos are described in the most naturalistic, fluent and convincing manner. There’s plenty of variation in the low end here, ample detail regarding tone and texture is available, but it’s the effortlessness with which the Goldring describes even quite tricky, off-kilter rhythms that lets you know you’re in safe hands.

The unity and togetherness with which the GR3 presents the whole recording is another one from the Big Book of Turntable Cliches. Detail levels are high throughout the frequency range, and (with the slight exception of the very top end) tonality is very consistent too – and there’s a real sense of singularity and performance about the way the Goldring handles the entirety of the music. As with rhythmic expression, there’s a complete lack of stress or apparent effort in the way this turntable handles the timing of a recording.

There’s decent dynamic headroom available for when the going gets especially hectic or intense. The GR3 is able to create a large and quite persuasive soundstage and there’s more than enough room available for each strand of a recording to make itself heard. The Goldring communicates eloquently through the midrange, and has just enough positivity to its overall presentation to prevent the words ‘laid back’ seeming like something that might come in useful at some point.

It’s only at the top of the frequency range that the GR3 seems anything less than nicely balanced and assured. Unlike the rest of the frequency range, which is described with quite carefully neutral tonality and a fair amount of substance, the very high end sounds a little thin and malnourished. It stops well short of hardness or edginess, don’t get me wrong, but its relative lack of body puts it at odds with pretty much everything that’s going on beneath it.

In a sympathetically matched system it will hardly be an issue but with carelessly chosen or similarly inclined partners the GR3 could conceivably bare its teeth a little more readily than is ideal.

  • Sound quality score: 4.5/5

Goldring GR3 turntable on top of a four-shelf sound system with pre-amp and stand mount speakers.

(Image credit: Future / Simon Lucas)

Goldring GR3 turntable review: Design

  • Belt drive with manual speed change
  • Phenolic resin platter
  • High-gloss black plinth

Goldring, up to a point, is being quite open about the fact the GR3 was developed in collaboration with a third party. This is the Goldring’s first turntable in over two decades, after all, so the idea of getting some outside help is probably sensible. “A renowned British hi-fi manufacturer” is how Goldring rather coyly describes its associate.

If you’re in any way au fait with the work of any renowned British turntable brands, the design of the GR3 is going to look pretty familiar – heck, if you’re in a similar line of work to me you’re probably likely to recognize the arrangement of the packaging the GR3 arrives in. But if you’re going to collaborate, then why not collaborate with the best around?

Anyhow, the GR3 is a belt-drive design, and is fitted with a phenolic resin platter. The platter is designed to increase inertia and maximize the flywheel effect (thus maintaining consistent rotational speed) by having the bulk of its considerable mass at the outside.

The plinth is built of anti-resonant composite fiber, and is finished in the sort of high-gloss black that collects fingerprints like a particularly zealous scene-of-crime investigator. It stands on three pliant, resonance-suppressing feet, and can be fitted with a supplied clear Perpsex dust cover. With the lid closed, the GR3 is 120 x 450 x 360mm (HxWxD), and weighs around 5.5kg.

  • Design score: 5/5

Goldring GR3 turntable, with the dust cover closed, with a yellow De La Soul record on the platter.

(Image credit: Future / Simon Lucas)

Goldring GR3 turntable review: usability and set-up

  • Cartridge is pre-adjusted for all but downforce
  • Can easily be connected to many types of system
  • Manual speed change

The Goldring E3 moving magnet cartridge is fitted to the tonearm before the GR3 leaves the factory, and it’s pre-adjusted for all but downforce. Dial in the recommended 2g and you’re ready to play.

Connecting to a system is very simple, too. Use one of the supplied cables to take line-level left-and-right channel information away from the turntable and into an ‘aux’ or other line-level input on your set-up – anything from a powered speaker to a full-on hi-fi system is fair game.

After that, make sure the belt is around the correct part of the pulley in order to get the rpm you need. The power switch is on the underside of the plinth, almost directly beneath the legend ‘Goldring - established 1906’ on the surface. Take the guard off the cartridge and lower the needle onto the vinyl… then sit back and enjoy.

  • Usability and setup score: 5/5

Closeup of the rear panel of the Goldring GR3 turntable, showing the input and output ports.

(Image credit: Future / Simon Lucas)

Goldring GR3 review: Value

  • Great build and finish
  • Articulate sound
  • Very acceptable cartridge

A good standard of build and finish, a very acceptable cartridge thrown in, and specification that makes system-matching the work of a moment all go towards suggesting there’s value for money available here. Add in the confident, articulate way the Goldring GR3 sounds and its case is approaching ‘watertight’.

  • Value score: 5/5

Closeup of the tonearm of the Goldring GR3 turntable.

(Image credit: Future / Simon Lucas)

Should I buy the Goldring GR3?

Attributes

Notes

Rating

Features

Low-vibration belt drive motor; integrated phono stage but would benefit from an 'off' option.

4.5/5

Sound quality

Excellent level of detail with decent dynamic headroom, but lacks a little top-end substance.

4.5/5

Design

Belt-drive design with a phenolic resin platter, developed in collaboration with a third party.

5/5

Usability and setup

Goldring E3 moving magnet cartridge fitted to the tonearm, though you must set the downforce; otherwise easy to connect to a system.

5/5

Value

Good build and finish, great cartridge, a fine proposition.

5/5

Buy it if...

You want as convenient an experience as possible
Yes, you have to set the downforce, but other than that, the GR3 is as painless as they come.

You value effortlessly rhythmic sound
The way the Goldring just flows is highly enjoyable.

You don’t mind a bit of dusting
The plinth shows up every speck of dust that lands on it.

Don't buy it if...

You have a decent phono stage in your system already
It’s the GR3’s phono stage or nothing, I’m afraid.

Your system is in any way flimsy at the top of the frequency range
The Goldring is happy to hit the top end perhaps a little harder than is ideal.

You have greasy hands
That high-gloss plinth picks up fingerprints very easily indeed.

Goldring GR3 review: also consider

Rega Planar PL1
Obviously you should consider Rega as a strong alternative to the Goldring – the Planar PL1 is less expensive, it’s true, it isn’t fitted with pre-amplification or as capable a cartridge as the Goldring, but it’s cracking value for money nevertheless.
Read the full Rega Planar PL1 review

Pro-Ject T2 Super Phono
It’s also worth checking out Pro-Ject, specifically the T2 Super Phono. It’s a good-looking, great-sounding record player with an integrated phono stage (that can be switched off if you want) and a decent (but not quite Goldring E3-standard) Sumiko moving magnet cartridge. And it’s available at GR3 money or even a little less.

How I tested the Goldring GR3

Goldring GR3 turntable on a wooden surface

(Image credit: Future / Simon Lucas)
  • Tested over the course of two weeks
  • Connected to a Naim Uniti Star network streamer/amplifier and Bowers & Wilkins 705 S3 Signature speakers
  • Listening to various types of music

I connected the Goldring GR3 to the line-level analog input of my Naim Uniti Star network streamer/amplifier using the supplied QED RCA/RCA cables.

The Naim was connected to a pair of Bowers & Wilkins 705 S3 Signature speakers on FS-700 S3 stands using QED XT50 speaker cable.

And then I listened to a lot of records for quite a long time, which was not the hardship it sounds like, I have to admit. I used a Rega Planar 2 with Carbon MM cartridge and a Technics SL-1300G with Goldring 1042 cartridge as reference devices.

  • First reviewed: January 2026
  • Read more about how we test
I tested the Vari CoreChair and it’s one of my favorites for active sitting and focused tasks, but it’s not for every professional
10:15 am |

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

The Vari CoreChair has genuinely surprised me. I thought that this would be a flash-in-the-pan kind of chair for me, a gimmick that I loved for exactly a week and then forgot about entirely, and I almost did, but I see the potential.

In fact, if it weren’t for my bad knees combined with my tall frame, I think this would be the perfect chair for me during the workday. But a few things are keeping this chair in “good” status, not “great.” But each of them can be fixed with simple tweaks.

The CoreChair’s entire USP is its unstable connection between the seat and the post. It’s just loose enough to cause you to have to engage your core while sitting, which may be hit or miss for users, but for those who move while sitting already, perhaps bounce a leg or fidget, or feel the need to stand and pace around, this may be precisely what you need.

This won't be the best office chair for most people - it's certainly a niche product. But for me, as a pretty active individual, this chair, in concept, is precisely what I want. I can’t get the height to work for me, but again, that could be solved pretty easily.

Vari CoreChair: Price and availability

Vari | CoreChair

(Image credit: Collin Probst // Future)

The CoreChair sells for $499 on the official Vari website. With that, you get free standard shipping in the contiguous US and a 3-year warranty, including complete product replacement under Vari’s policy.

It’s worth noting that this chair is currently only available in black, but I doubt the lack of color options would deter buyers.

Vari | CoreChair

(Image credit: Collin Probst // Future)

Vari CoreChair: Unboxing and First Impressions

This was probably the easiest chair I have ever built, outside of the few I have received that are pre-built. It took about 3 minutes, two screws, and no worry at all.

Off the bat, I thought this was an odd chair; it had a very aggressive tailbone cushion, a super-low backrest as you'd expect from a task chair that's designed for focused work, not staying supported for long hours.

Saying that, after sitting on this for the first time, I was thoroughly impressed by how comfortable the cushion was and how premium everything felt, given its simplicity.

However, I was right in my first thought: this chair should be at stool height, not chair height, but more on that later.

Vari CoreChair: Design & Build Quality

Vari | CoreChair

(Image credit: Collin Probst // Future)

After months of using this chair off and on, I still stand by the fact that this is one of the more comfortable cushions in a seat. It’s firm yet supportive, and breathable on even the hottest days. I also love that the spokes on the legs are wider, making it easier to rest my feet on.

The backrest section here is a tad confusing, and to be honest, I'm not sure why it exists. It feels unnecessary, like it should either be larger or be removed entirely. And, I actually mean that as a positive. The chair is strong enough on its own that reworking it into a stool might be better than using it as a chair.

If this were a stool, I could stretch out my legs a bit more, use the footrests on the spokes a bit more, and aid my balance while using it, too. The chair is so close to being great; I just wish there were a bit of a change.

Vari CoreChair: In use

Vari | CoreChair

(Image credit: Collin Probst // Future)

I work out of a specific workspace three days a week, and this chair has been in that workspace for the entirety of my testing. I’ve used it for all-day sessions, upwards of 8 hours at a time. Throughout that time, I feel like I can now say that this chair doesn’t so much give me a core workout as it does a focused, engaged core.

For someone like me, who is very active and hyper-mobile, I feel like I am constantly tapping my feet or bouncing my leg. A chair like this that helps me stay engaged without feeling like I need to tap or fidget. I noticed that using this chair helped me lock into what I was working on, making hours feel like mere minutes.

After several weeks of using this chair, I do have a few notes I wish I could change. First off, I don’t think the lumbar portion is necessary, though I see why they added it. Secondly, it could be my height, but I wish that this chair were actually up to stool height. If it were a bit taller, I think I could use this for a few more days in a row, or even a few more hours at a time. Right now, after a few hours, I get a bit fidgety due to knee pain, but I love having the core activation.

I think, in its current form, the best use for this chair is somewhere between two- and four-hour working sessions where you need to write, focus, knock out a proposal, crush some emails, or something else you need hyper-fixation on. This chair could help you lock in and knock it out. For some, that is precisely what they need to do some of their best work.

However, if you have lower back pain or another ailment I'd recommending steering clear of this chair, as it won't provide the natural support most ergonomic chairs do and instead, force you to support yourself by adding a layer of instability. If you're suffering serious lower back pain, the Steelcase Leap remains the gold-standard in that department.

Vari CoreChair: Final verdict

Vari | CoreChair

(Image credit: Collin Probst // Future)

The Vari CoreChair is a strong option for the right person and something others should steer clear of. It’s not the chair for everyone, but a niche option that could be a secret weapon for productivity.

As discussed, there are a few areas I'd like to adjust to make this an even better chair, but for now, I can see myself keeping this chair in rotation for those times I need to lock in. It’s a great rotation between sitting, standing at a standing desk, and sitting in the CoreChair, though I know that not everyone has the opportunity for such a working environment.

To keep things simple, if you experience lower back or knee pain, this will definitely not be the right chair for you. If you prefer passive sitting (where the chair does the work for you) over active sitting (where you control how you sit and what support you get), again, the CoreChair isn't going to tick those boxes.

But if you’re the kind of person who fidgets, is constantly moving, or has a bit of a hyperactive mentality, this chair may unlock productivity levels you never knew were possible.

For more office furniture essentials, visit our guide to the best standing desks we've tested.

The Scuf Envision Pro V2 has some of the best buttons and triggers I’ve ever used, but it’s massively let down by convoluted software
2:00 am |

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

Scuf Envision Pro V2: two-minute review

Bespoke PC controllers are still fairly rare in the gaming accessory space, though it’s definitely a growing market. Most offer simple controllers, usually with Xbox button layouts and functionality, to cater to those who just want to play games on PC using the best PC controllers.

Then there’s the Scuf Envision Pro V2, which is positioned as a highly customizable and complex product that has many more buttons than a regular controller would usually have by default. This takes the Scuf Envision Pro into an even more niche area, for those who want the additional hotkeys and buttons offered by keyboard and mouse, but with the form factor and comfort of a controller. It’s an interesting idea, though one that I’m not sure will be all that useful to many players.

After using the Scuf Envision Pro for 30 hours, I’ve been impressed by its highly tweakable control schemes, its brilliantly designed buttons, and how it’s changed the way I play certain games like Fortnite and Marvel Rivals. Unfortunately, I’ve also run into countless issues that stem from the added complexity of a controller like this. The software is inconsistent, the onboarding is essentially non-existent, and the troubleshooting is particularly frustrating.

There’s a lot about the Scuf Envision Pro that’ll appeal to those who want to tinker away at every single aspect of their controller, but personally, I found the options overwhelming and rarely worth the time spent toying around in menus on my desktop. Mostly, I’ve come away questioning why someone who wants so much customization in a controller wouldn’t simply use a keyboard and mouse instead, and at the high cost of entry, the Scuf Envision Pro isn’t a gamepad I’d recommend to 90% of the gamers I know.

Still, it’s worth noting that the Scuf Envision Pro isn’t really supposed to be for everyone. The deep suite of programmable inputs, the on-board RGB lighting, and the ability to truly create a specialized controller of your own do amount to something quite special. If you do want full control over your gaming experience, then the Scuf Envision Pro is a very competitive offering, and one that actually feels good to hold and use.

I could certainly see some loving the process of configuring individual controller profiles, dialling in triggers, and setting custom hotkeys, but there’s a lot you have to put in before you really start seeing its full potential.

Scuf Envision Pro controller held in hand

(Image credit: Future)

As I’m spending a lot of my time reviewing gaming hardware at the moment, I’m growing to loathe the various software programmes that are often required to access a product’s full suite of functions. The Scuf Envision Pro requires Corsair’s iCue software for first-time setup. It’s a clunky affair that really could do with some onboarding tutorials, or even just more information on how to get started with the new controller.

Most frustrating is the instability of the iCue software’s connection to the controller itself. I’d regularly find myself unplugging and re-plugging the wired connection to get the controller to show up in the menus. Then there’s the switch on the back of the controller that must be flipped between wired and wireless modes. This switch isn’t something I’ve seen on controllers like this before, and it just adds another level of complexity to what is already a pretty tangled-up web connecting the Wired and Wireless modes.

While I do understand the extra levels of precision and control afforded by a keyboard and mouse setup, I’ve always preferred using a controller for one key reason – simplicity. The Scuf Envision Pro is anything but simple, though perhaps that’s the point. Even after 10 hours of fiddling with the Scuf Envision Pro, I was rarely able to just plug it in and play. Nor was I ever 100% sure what profile I was playing with, whether my controller was using the wireless or wired mode, and whether the RGB lighting was even displaying what I’d programmed it to.

When the Scuf Envision Pro does work, it works extremely well. Once I’d dialed in my settings for a few different games, and after digging into the iCue software, I was quite impressed by the functionality of the gamepad. I adore the form factor, in particular, as I’ve always gravitated towards symmetrical sticks and less bulky controllers. The design is sleek, but sturdy. It’s technically heavier than a PS5 DualSense controller, but it certainly doesn't feel like it. The buttons are a real standout, with an endlessly satisfying click to their action. Similarly, the d-pad features a nice clickiness, and the triggers feel smooth and snappy regardless of how you program them.

There’s a big issue with the price, especially for someone like me who just isn’t going to realistically make use of the majority of the features of the Scuf Envision Pro. Perhaps it could be a brilliant upgrade for PC gamers looking to play games like racing simulators, but I think for the more general gamer, there are very few use cases for the iCue software, or the bulk of the additional buttons on the controller itself.

Scuf Envision Pro V2 review: price and availability

  • $169.99 / £159.99
  • Priced around the same as the V1 was at launch
  • Not many direct competitors, but priced reasonably for the feature set and amount of buttons / paddles

The Scuf Envision Pro is difficult to compare to its competitors, given that it offers a frankly dizzying number of buttons and programmable features. Unless you’re set on making use of absolutely everything the Scuf Envision Pro has to offer, it’s tough to recommend it over something considerably cheaper, like the GameSir G7 Pro, which comes with drift-resisting TMR sticks and four extra buttons.

In terms of direct alternatives to the Scuf Envision Pro, you’re looking at the Razer Wolverine V3 Pro, Xbox Elite Series 2, and potentially the DualSense Edge. None of these offer the same level of additional inputs and features as the Scuf Envision Pro, and all are slightly pricier. Still, I’d argue that these alternatives have a better user experience when swapping and customizing profiles, and have better software paired with the devices.

Given the Scuf Envision Pro’s mix of controller and keyboard/mouse features, however, you’re getting a lot for the money. The question is whether you actually need extra buttons in the center of the controller, and whether the side-mounted SAX buttons will be more of a hindrance or a useful addition to your setup.

Scuf Envision Pro controller in-box

(Image credit: Future)

Unlike its direct predecessor, the Scuf Envision Pro V2 does feature Hall Effect thumbsticks, aiming to eliminate the risk of stick drift. I’d expect this from a premium controller, but it’s still nice to see a noticeable upgrade on the previous iteration. Generally, most competitors also offer Hall Effect thumbsticks for a similar price, or TMR sticks.

All in all. It’s tough to say whether the Scuf Envision Pro is worth the high asking price, as this will largely come down to your own personal needs when picking up a PC-only controller. One thing to note is that unlike its competitors, the Scuf Envision Pro can only be used with Windows PCs. That means no consoles, and no Mac or Linux. For me, I’d be looking for a bit more versatility when choosing a premium controller, but if you only game on PC, you’ll be set.

Scuf Envision Pro V2 review: Specs

Scuf Envision Pro

Price

$169.99 / £159.99 / AU$ 322 (estimated)

Weight

10.05oz / 362g

Dimensions

6.5 x 4.23 x 2.5in / 165 x 107.5 x 63.5mm

Compatibility

PC (Windows)

Connection type

Wireless, Wired (audio jack), Bluetooth

Battery life

19 hours

Features

Hall-Effect thumbsticks, adjustable triggers, back paddles, additional buttons on main deck, additional buttons on bumper areas, RGB lighting.

Software

iCue (Corsair; PC)

Scuf Envision Pro controller leaning against a wall

(Image credit: Future)

Scuf Envision Pro V2 review: design and features

  • Comfortable and premium build
  • Buttons have a great click when pushed
  • Triggers and additional buttons are all easy to reach and use

The Scuf Envision Pro is available in a very impressive suite of colors. I got the grey and orange design, and I really like how it looks out of the box. There are a ton of little details found on the sticks, along the edges of the triggers, and on the back grip that make the Scuf Envision Pro look sleek and high-end. I particularly like the little trackpad that blends seamlessly with the main body, and the clean look of the buttons against the faceplate.

Scuf tends to do things a bit differently when compared to its competitors in terms of button layout, especially in the placement of the back paddles. It took me a while to get used to where the four back buttons sit, as they’re lower down than other controllers I’ve used. After a while, though, they feel right, and you can swap out a bunch of the buttons for in-box replacements if you want to tweak things slightly.

I’m less sold on the SAX buttons, which sit up near the front bumper, along the sides of the controller. It’s very easy to press them with your index fingers when you’re not intending to, though you can remove them entirely if you wish. I attempted to get used to the SAX buttons rather than swapping them out, and never really managed to fit them into my custom control setups. They are useful for mapping grenades and ping functions in shooters; however, as long as you don’t accidentally hit them by mistake.

Scuf Envision Pro controller face down, showing back paddles

(Image credit: Future)

PC controllers tend to use the Xbox design layout for sticks, so it’s nice to see a symmetrical stick offering from Scuf here. I prefer the overall placement of the sticks to the official Sony gamepads, and really like how the form factor of the grips sits in your hands while holding the controller. Similarly, the buttons have some neat technology applied that makes the Scuf Envision Pro stand out. They’re more like mouse clicks than button presses, and I love how tactile and responsive they feel.

The other main design highlight for the Scuf Envision Pro is the five on-board G-Keys that run along the bottom of the controller. These can be mapped to whatever function you want, but are particularly useful for voice chat controls. They sit in a row surrounded by an RGB light bar, too, which can be customized with a range of colors. I found the light bar to be largely unnoticeable most of the time, as you need to be running iCue in the background while gaming to really make the most of them.

While the Scuf Envision Pro does lean on software for many of its design features, there are nice mechanical switches for the triggers. There’s a switch at the back too that toggles between wired and wireless inputs, but I never quite got the hang of switching them around, preferring to just wire in the controller to my PC. Build-wise, the Scuf Envision Pro is an impressive controller that feels bespoke and unique when compared to bulkier, more garish PC controllers.

Scuf Envision Pro V2 review: Performance

  • Fantastic response times from triggers and buttons
  • iCue can used to fully customize your experience
  • Settings can be stored on the controller and used without iCue

Purely as a gaming controller, the Scuf Envision Pro V2 works flawlessly. The triggers and buttons are responsive, and the additional buttons can really make the difference in competitive online games. It does focus heavily on software to open up its full suite of features, however, and this is where the majority of the problems lie.

Corsair’s iCue is designed very much like a keyboard and mouse macro software, and is quite unfriendly to those used to playing on controllers at first glance. You must install iCue to set up the controller first time, though you can actually just install the Scuf drivers and use the controller’s limited on-board features if you’d rather 9I wouldn't recommend this, given how much you're paying for those full features). There’s no real tutorial or handholding within iCue, and unless you already know what you’re doing with dead zones and triggers, you’ll likely be a bit overwhelmed at first. You can create a handful of custom profiles, each color-coded, and then mapped to the controller.

I do like that the settings are saved on the controller itself, well most of them at least, meaning you can use the center button to switch profiles on the fly. The main problem comes when you want to use the extended features of the Scuf Envision Pro (like the G-Keys), which require you to have iCue running in the background. This does have an impact on performance, and given the tendency for the iCue software to lose connection to the controller, having to tab out of a game to check what’s going on is a real pain.

The Corsair iCue software, showing customization options and menus

(Image credit: Corsair)

The only reason you’d spend this much on the Scuf Envision Pro is to make use of all the extra bells and whistles, but by tying things to iCue, Scuf has really made things difficult for users. I found that regardless of whether I was connected via wired or wireless mode, things would drop in and out as the controller lost connection every now and again. Upon connecting again, I was always unsure as to what mode the controller was actually in, what profile was active, and whether the back buttons were assigned correctly. This invariably led to my having to open iCue and scroll through several menus.

After 20 or so hours of testing, I just decided to stick with a wired connection, as wireless would often disconnect from iCue, disabling the back buttons, G-Keys, and sometimes even the triggers. Restarting iCue seemed to be the fix, but not one I wanted to be doing while playing a game on another screen. The Scuf Envision Pro’s complexity comes at a price, it seems, and with so many custom profiles to map, frequent software issues, and instances of on-board memory and software memory butting heads, I’m not sure the extra technology is really worth it for all but the most devoted of PC gamers.

The iCue software is easily the weakest part of the Scuf Envision Pro, and because it’s required for certain features to be unlocked, the hardware suffers as a result. As a premium PC controller, this is a great-feeling, highly responsive bit of kit. As an all-round package, I struggle to see who would bother spending so much time in iCue to really make the most of their purchase.

Should I buy the Scuf Envision Pro V2?

Buy it if...

You want unparalleled control over your controller’s settings
The level of customization available on the Scuf Envision Pro is truly unmatched. You’ll be able to map hotkeys, tweak the RGB lighting, and set custom profiles for deadzones and more.

You’re a PC-only gamer looking for a controller with additional buttons
The Scuf Envision Pro has a bunch of additional buttons when compared to a standard gamepad. There are four back paddles, side-mounted SAX buttons, and even 5 G-Key inputs. This is the most buttons I’ve ever used on a controller, and the possibilities for control schemes really are endless.

Don't buy it if...

You don’t want to rely on additional software
The iCue software is required to run in the background if you want to make the most of the Scuf Envision Pro. For those wary of performance and those who just want to plug and play, this isn’t the controller for you.

You don’t want to spend more on a premium controller that can only be used on PC
The Scuf Envision Pro is expensive, especially when you consider that it can only be used for Windows PC. Other alternatives will work on Mac, Xbox, and Linux, so it may be worth going for something more versatile if you play on multiple platforms.

Scuf Envision Pro review: Also consider

Still not sure if the Scuf Envision Pro V2 is for you? Here are two competitors that might better fit your needs.

Scuf Envision Pro

Razer Wolverine V3 Pro

Xbox Elite Series 2

Price

$169.99 / £159.99

$199.99 / £199.99

$199.99 / £169.99

Weight

10.05oz / 362g

14.72oz / 418g

12.16oz / 345g

Dimensions

6.5 x 4.23 x 2.5in / 165 x 107.5 x 63.5mm

8.86 x 8.7 x 3.23in / 157 x 105 x 100mm

3.07 x 7.29 x 7.23in / 193 x 193 x 90.9 mm

Compatibility

PC (Windows)

Xbox Series X, Xbox Series S, PC

Xbox Series X, Xbox Series S, PC, Mobile

Connection type

Wireless, Wired (audio jack), Bluetooth

Wireless (2.4GHz dongle), Wired (USB Type-C)

Wireless, Bluetooth, Wired

Battery life

19 hours

12-13 hours

40 hours

Software

iCue (Corsair)

Razer Controller App

Xbox Accessories App

Razer Wolverine V3 Pro
This controller is more expensive than the Scuf Envision Pro, but you can also use it on Xbox. Generally, it’s a heavier and bulkier product, and lacks the additional button count of the Envision Pro. Still, its software and higher ease of use will make it more accessible for the majority of players looking for a PC controller.

For more information, check out our full Razer Wolverine V3 Pro review.

Xbox Elite Wireless Controller Series 2
For those looking for a sturdy, premium controller that works on PC and Xbox, you can’t really go wrong with the Elite Series 2. It features four back paddles, and you can swap out stick inputs and other build aspects. The battery life is much higher here, and you can use the Elite Series 2 controller on mobile, Mac, as well as PC and Xbox. For the extra money, it’s a much more plug-and-play alternative, and one that’s often on sale.

For more information, check out our full Xbox Elite Series 2 Wireless Controller review.

How I tested the Scuf Envision Pro

  • Tested for a month, playing Marvel Rivals, Fortnite and Battlefield 6
  • Used primarily in default control scheme, but tested button mapping, and profile swapping functions
  • Tested in wireless and wired modes, and used iCue to dial in deadzones, trigger settings, and lighting options

I used the Scuf Envision Pro controller with a gaming laptop, and with the Corsair iCue software downloaded. Occasionally, I’d use the controller in wireless mode, but I found the wired connection to be much more stable. Over time, I dug into the iCue software to create custom profiles, tweak deadzones, and experiment with the SAX button inputs.

After tweaking the Scuf Envision Pro, I primarily mapped the extra buttons to voice chat inputs. The SAX buttons were great for triggering grenades in FPS games, while the G-Keys were mostly used to mute and switch voice chat functions.

First reviewed December 2025-January 2026

Read more about how we test

A Thousand Blows season 2 review: the Disney+ bareknuckle boxing series is more brutal than ever
9:50 pm | January 9, 2026

Author: admin | Category: Computers Disney Plus Gadgets Hulu Streaming | Comments: Off

A Thousand Blows steps out of the bareknuckle boxing rings of Victorian London to focus on bleaker themes in the second season of Steven Knight's historical drama. While there are still plenty of wince-inducing brawls, A Thousand Blows season 2 is less about gritty fight sequences and more about the fight for survival in an unforgiving Victorian London.

Like the first season, Knight has once again mixed fact with fiction, using real historical events to inspire the narratives throughout the series, which he describes as "stepping stones" for creating a foundation to the overall storyline. "Usually, you’ve got a date, maybe a fight that happened, a boxing bout that happened or a robbery that happened for real," he explained. "You know these things happened, and then it’s up to you to find out why they would have gone from that to that."

Knight confirmed that the second season is roughly 35% based on real-life. That formula adds a layer of authenticity to the show that it balances throughout with emotional story arcs to thread the varying narratives together, from Hezekiah Moscow’s (Malachi Kirby) journey from wanting to be a lion tamer to becoming a heavyweight champion to Mary Carr's (Erin Doherty) daring department store robberies as the leader of the notorious all-female crime gang the Forty Elephants.

In season 2, Hezekiah is seen dusting himself off from the aftermath of the fatal boxing bout at the end of the first season. Still reeling from the loss of his brother Alec (Francis Lovehall), he feels more far from home than ever before.

These emotions weigh him down, but they also act as a catalyst for a new redemption arc that ties into Knight's belief about the timelessness of basic human motivations. "It doesn’t matter how far back in time you’re going," he says. "People were the same. The same motivations, the same emotions, jealousy and passions."

Partly due to Knight's focus on these themes, season 2 has a lot less boxing than the first chapter. That gives it a more relatable feel for those with less interest in pugilism, with the series referencing real historical events like the Matchgirls’ Strike of 1888 at the Bryant & May factory. "They used white phosphorus, which was poisonous and caused horrible diseases for the workers," Kirby noted. There are also echoes of Jack the Ripper that further ground the show in a layer of authenticity of the time.

Darci Shaw as Alice in A Thousand Blows season 2.

The Forty Elephants have it all to play for in season 2. (Image credit: Disney )

Doherty summed up the atmosphere of the period perfectly with: "Life was fragile then, it was easily lost… When you understand how many people would just die on the streets, the stakes are incredibly high." Adding: "When you're trying to find the human in it all, it's not too hard because it was so terrifying and bleak."

For Darci Shaw (pictured above), who plays supporting character Alice who's part of the Forty Elephants, it was digging into that bleak history that helped her to fully understand what was at stake. "I read quite a bit about the period and the state of women in homelessness at the time, and I think that just helps to understand the stakes and why these women [the Forty Elephants] are so confident and will do whatever it takes because they don't have a choice," she said.

Other supporting characters like Edward 'Treacle' Goodson are also given more depth. James Nelson-Joyce, who plays Goodson, credits Knight’s scripts for the character’s complexity in season 2. "Steven’s writing is unbelievable," he said. "You’re never playing one thing. There’s always layers, always something underneath what’s being said."

Despite one extremely heartbreaking storyline, Treacle and his brother Sugar Goodson (Stephen Graham) don't play as big of a role in the second season, leaving space for Hezekiah's and Mary's comeback act to take centre stage.

The stakes are no less serious, though. While there’s less boxing than in the first season of A Thousand Blows, the brawls remain brutal, but it's the characters' battles outside the ring that give the second season its dramatic force.

All six episodes of A Thousand Blows season 2 premiered on January 9, 2026, on Disney+ (internationally) and Hulu (US).

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Dell Pro Max 16 Plus mobile workstation review: Backpack-friendly desktop-class power with a beautiful display
9:10 pm |

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

The Dell Pro Max 16 Plus is a little brother to the Dell Pro Max 18 Plus I previously reviewed. It trades a bit of screen real estate for a higher-quality display and the ability to be tucked away in a backpack for on-the-go use. While it may not fit in the tighter laptop bags, it will fit in larger, more robust backpacks.

The Pro Max 16 Plus delivers powerful performance, featuring an Intel Core Ultra 9 chip, an NVIDIA RTX Pro 5000 Blackwell GPU, and up to 128GB of RAM. Simply put, this is one of the best mobile workstations of its class.

The two Thunderbolt 5 ports showcase the drive for speed, power, and forward thinking for the Dell Pro Max 16 Plus. Dell knows that at this price point and with this power, not everyone can swap them out as quickly as cheaper laptops. So, they have made sure to future-proof this one as much as possible.

The Dell team also found a way to pack in an SD Card, a Smart Card reader, an RJ45 port, and a 280W power adapter to power up this beast of a machine. It's a compelling option for developers, engineers, data professionals, and generalists who need a single machine that serves as their all-in-one tool to handle all their workloads without breaking a sweat.

Dell Pro Max 16 Plus: Price and availability

Dell | Pro Max 16 Plus

(Image credit: Collin Probst // Future )

The Dell Pro Max 16 Plus has a base price of around $4000, available from both the Dell US and Dell UK websites. I'm also seeing it available from some online retailers.

As ever with Dell laptops, there are a huge number of configurations available, so prices will vary. In this review, I'm testing a model with the Intel Core Ultra 9 285HX (16 Cores, 24 Threads, 5.5 GHz Turbo, 55W), 128GB RAM, an NVIDIA RTX Pro 5000 Blackwell GPU, and 2TB SSD. All alongside the 16-inch OLED 3860x2400 with 500 nits max.

Dell | Pro Max 16 Plus

(Image credit: Collin Probst // Future )

Dell Pro Max 16 Plus: Unboxing and First Impressions

After just reviewing the Dell | Pro Max 18 Plus, I knew this 16-inch model was going to be very similar. It's essentially 98% as good as the Dell Pro Max 18 Plus in a smaller shell, with an upgraded Tandem OLED 120Hz Display.

Unboxing, I realized that while the 2-inch difference, of course, makes a difference for screen size, the heft of this machine is still very prevalent. This is not an Ultrabook, it’s not a thin machine you toss in your bag and forget about.

And Dell isn’t ashamed of that at all. It proudly packs an insane amount of power into this unit, all while making it look pretty good and having superb usability in day-to-day operations.

Plus, with the ability to take in 280W, I want to be able to take that charger with me everywhere, but the sheer size of this brick is wild.

Dell Pro Max 16 Plus: Design & Build Quality

Dell | Pro Max 16 Plus

(Image credit: Collin Probst // Future )

This is a hefty computer. There’s no denying that. But at the same time, it is light enough and portable enough to take around. Unlike the larger 18-inch brother, which pretty much means yes, you can carry it. Still, only to and from a workspace, the 16-inch laptop is more portable and easier to toss in a backpack, take with you out of your workspace, and experience the power of portability.

While the Dell Pro 14 Premium is hyper portable and designed to be lightweight, and the Dell Pro Max 18 Plus is designed to be an entire barrage of horsepower crammed into one machine that can technically be called portable, the Dell Pro Max 16 Plus fits between the two, while still favoring the hefty side. I wouldn’t want to walk around holding this with one hand while typing with the other, but I wouldn’t mind closing this, heading to where I am going, and then popping this back open again on a table, desk, or even my lap.

In fact, comparing laptops, this one feels more like a more powerful Precision 5690. Naturally, the Precision runs on older architecture, but it’s the same size screen, a similar keyboard, and fills a similar amount of space dimension-wise on everything except thickness.

The Pro Max 16 Plus can fit in my beloved Nomatic Backpack, but is too large for sleeker backpacks like the Bellroy Transit, primarily due to the thickness on top of the 16-inch display. But then again, there are some mid-sized bags, like a few from Troubadour, that this fits in, so it really comes down to the design of the laptop pouch.

Dell has done a fantastic job at keeping ports where users want them. I’ve seen some laptops, specifically workstation-class ones, that place ports on the back of the computer, with the idea of having this machine pretty much just docked.

Thankfully, Dell takes portability seriously, even with this tier of powerhouse. Because of this, the ports are on the left and right of the machine: the RJ45, HDMI, 2x TB5, SD card, and smart card ports on the left, and the 2x USB-A, TB, and headphone jack on the right. For my testing and my use case, this layout is fantastic and has had no issues so far.

While Thunderbolt 5 is still pretty new, putting it in this kind of machine is a wise, future-forward move by Dell, putting the faster, newer, and more powerful ports in their top-of-the-line machines, knowing that people grabbing these are not swapping them out every few months or even years. Still, they have been running them hard for a while.

The last thing I’ll mention regarding design is the display. I understood the Dell Pro Max 18 Plus, as people aren’t really going to use that machine for display-first tasks. They’re not buying that kind of machine to have a great display. This one, though, has a beautiful 3860x2400 Tandem OLED with 120Hz refresh rates, though it’s limited to 500 nits.

While this is still not a machine that the average video editor would grab as their first choice, nor a pro-gamer or photographer, this can be a machine used by someone who either cares about having a high resolution display for the real estate on their screen, fitting more content, crisper, or it could be someone who is a bit of a generalist-specialist. I see this being perfect for engineers who also work in graphic design or UI design, or heavy CAD users, who want to make sure they see everything clearly.

Dell Pro Max 16 Plus: In use

Dell | Pro Max 16 Plus

(Image credit: Collin Probst // Future )
Specs

CPU: Intel Core Ultra 9 285HX
GPU: NVIDIA RTX Pro 5000 Blackwell w/24GB
RAM: 128GB
Display: 16" Tandem OLED
Resolution: 3860x2400
Brightness: 500 nits

I’ve had this laptop in my rotation of machines for a whopping 113 days at the time of writing this paragraph. I’ve run some heavy workloads on it, I’ve used it for a few days in my real day-to-day world, I’ve used it for odds and ends, and I’ve run benchmarks all to see if this machine is what it says it is. So far, it has held up wonderfully to everything I have thrown at it.

Proving its might as one of the best laptops for programming, it’s blasted through local dev environments I have run on it, it doesn’t sweat at DBeaver repos, or pulling up large codebases in VS Code, it doesn’t even flinch. I dabbled in some local LLMs to try it, and I haven’t even been able to make the Intel Core i9 even sweat.

I pulled up large building schematics as CAD Files, I opened every productivity app I could think of and ran an absurd number of draining Chrome tabs, I was processing files, converting videos, transferring on and off of drives, and still, it’s great.

Don’t get me wrong, this won't be the best business laptop for every professional, due to its heft and power consumption, but for those who cannot or will not compromise on power and still want the option to bring their primary machine with them everywhere they may go, this might be the way to do it.

Compared to the Dell Pro 14 Premium, the Dell Pro 14 Premium focuses much more on battery life and portability than the Dell Pro Max 16 Plus. Still, you’re also getting true desktop-class power, now with a spectacular display too.

My model has an Intel Core i9-285HX with 16 cores, 24 threads, and 5.5 GHz turbo. It’s an absolute animal of a chip. Paired with the NVIDIA RTX 5000 Blackwell with 24GB, 128GB of RAM, and 2TB of SSD Storage, with the option of going up to 16TB on the device, which is truly absurd. I know of desktops drooling at these specs for productivity and performance. To get some numbers, I ran some 3DMark benchmark tests. For the CPU Profile Benchmark Tests, my max-threads test scored 11,717 points.

In everyday use, this machine has handled everything I have thrown at it, with room to spare. It’s got insane power for even the professional user, and gives power into the hands of the nomads without sacrifices.

The 16-inch size is great, offering excellent screen real estate without being too cumbersome, unlike the 18-inch counterpart.

Dell Pro Max 16 Plus: Final verdict

Dell | Pro Max 16 Plus

(Image credit: Collin Probst // Future )

Few laptops offer this level of power while still fitting within a portable form factor. The Dell Pro Max 16 Plus is designed for the everything-fractional-developer who has to be able to do anything and everything at a moment's notice. It's designed for the generalist who dabbles in multiple high-demand areas of computing power.

The mobile workstation is designed to handle your day-to-day tasks without requiring you to hand off processing power to another companion device or even a dongle. It's self-sufficient for most tasks.

For those who need this class of workhorse, few are rating better than this one right now. Yes, it's not perfect, but it's a phenomenal option for those looking.

X-Chair X-Tech review: My kids called this an office chair built for the boss – and with its cooling, heating, and massaging features, I agree
5:05 pm |

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

The X-Chair X-Tech is a clean and professional ergonomic chair with a few tricks up its sleeve.

An executive-level seat from water-resistant mesh, vegan leather, it's built for medium- to larger-framed individuals, with a fairly deep seat and a 275 lb weight capacity. Overall I found it a highly functional, comfortable seat with dynamic lumbar support and mobile armrests as you'll typically find on the best office chairs at this price-point.

But if the chair's name - the X-Tech - didn't give it away, there's something more going on here. Where it diverges is that it features a heated, cooling, and massaging lumbar section.

X-Chair X-Tech: Price and availability

XChair | X-Tech

(Image credit: Collin Probst // Future )

The X-Chair X-Tech has had its prices change a few times since I started testing it. As of January 2026, this chair is $1,568 (discounted from $1845) on the official X-Chair website.

Now, that's putting the chair into the same sort of price-tag territory as the Herman Miller Embody and Steelcase Leap (and then some). So the real question for buyers is, are the extra temperature control features worth the outlay?

Additional extras are good - it's available in a range of styles, colors, and configurations. For this review, I tested the Quicksilver Brisa / Black ATR ELEMAX Model, with FS 360 arms, and locking FS wheels.

What’s interesting is that the X-tech is a lot like another model I reviewed: the X-Chair X4. The X4 was a build-your-own kind of style, while this one comes fully loaded with everything you could want.. Now, I pretty much just specced the X4 model to about the same degree, but it’s still worth noting.

XChair | X-Tech

(Image credit: Collin Probst // Future )

X-Chair X-Tech: Design & Build Quality

XChair | X-Tech

(Image credit: Collin Probst // Future )

Right off the bat, this chair looks very similar to the X4. Which, of course, makes sense as they are near the same item once you've built out the X4 with all the optional extras.

This really is just a curated version of the X4 Leather, combining the material choices, colorways, and upgrades into a single package for executives. No decision fatigue, no assistant taking their best guess, no time wasted deciding on exactly what choose.

What I appreciate about the design is that it could fit in a home office, a boardroom, an executive suite, or an apartment corner. Anywhere you place it, the X-Tech will fit in with the surroundings, especially with the option to choose materials that match your desired look.

I felt the materials had a quality look and feel (as you'd expect for the price), and the two-tone design language of the X-Tech creates a modern aesthetic.

Assembly was easy enough, the frame feels robust and well-built, not just patting myself on the back for assembly, but the joins, the bolts, and everything feel sturdy, like you’d expect from an expensive chair.

All in all, assembly took about 25 minutes solo, which is about average for most chairs, and it's straightforward enough that nothing required second pair of hands.

X-Chair X-Tech: In use

XChair | X-Tech

(Image credit: Collin Probst // Future )

This chair has been in my fleet for a little over 90 days at the time of writing this. It's been used by myself, my team, and my extended family members over the recent holidays.

We all agree that this chair is spectacular; the only debate was who this chair was really for. Some executives at mid-sized or smaller organizations may not want to incur this kind of cost for a chair. Still, those at larger firms will probably go with even more expensive office chairs simply for the brand recognition.

My kids, on the other hand, think that this chair is for the boss, plain and simple. Or just any old guy, according to my brilliant 4-year-old daughter — hurtful, as I sit back in this chair writing out these sentences after a day of playing this New Year's Day, enjoying the massaging and heat function.

And that brings me to the real selling point of this chair.

Not only do the heating and massaging functions work well, but so does the cooling function. I’m someone who runs hot 99% of the time, so having a chair that can cool me down while working is great, especially in the summer months. And also ideal for those who work in an office where the climate is controlled by someone who thinks they should be able to feel like they are in the sun while at work.

I’ve sat in this chair for meetings, for several-hour lock-in sessions, and for all-nighter writing sessions. I’ve been in the zone, leaning forward, kicked back and relaxed, enjoying the massaging function, and I even pulled this chair up during the holidays for an extra seat, and had to fight my uncle with severe back pain to get it back.

This chair has been through it, and it still functions and looks just as good as it did on day one. No matter the position or person, the chair seems to adjust to what is needed, not locking you into what it wants, but adjusting to what you need.

For those really long working sessions, taking a few minutes to kick back and turn on the massager is a welcome treat.

My only real problem here is that I do wish that the controls for this were a bit easier to access. I memorized the button locations pretty quickly, but it’s not the easiest to get set up the first several times until you can learn them.

X-Chair X-Tech: Final verdict

XChair | X-Tech

(Image credit: Collin Probst // Future )

While this may not be the biggest of names of chairs, and it may not be the massive leatherback executive chair we see in cheesy movies, the X-tech ticks a lot of boxes. It's comfortable and attractively design - the only issue being the button placement, which is easier to overcome after a few uses.

If you are a business professional who wants an excellent chair for their home office space, their cubicle, corner office, or conference room, and you have some coin to spend on something that will treat you right, the X-Chair X-Tech is absolutely worth considering, especially if you desire a heated, cooled, and massaging lumbar.

For more office furniture, check out our round-up of the best standing desks we've ever tried.

People We Meet on Vacation review: Netflix changes key details from the hit book, but it’s still their best rom-com yet
3:00 am |

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

There's a running joke in the TV and movies industry that January is when studios release their 'clangers' (i.e. projects that will undoubtedly flop) – but just nine days into 2026, new Netflix movie People We Meet on Vacation is busting the myth.

If you've heard the title before, that's because Netflix is adapting the smash-hit 2021 romance novel by Emily Henry. However, if you're a diehard 'Vacationer' (that's what I'm going to call the fan base), you'll notice some major changes... but I promise the sizzling and playful romantic chemistry between Poppy (Emily Bader) and Alex (Tom Blyth) hasn't gone anywhere.

Even the core storyline itself feels refreshing as a rom-com concept. Wild and bashful Emily is the polar opposite of reserved and anxious Alex, but after meeting at university, the pair spend years of their friendship having adventures while traveling the world. They always try to spend one week of their summer vacation together no matter where life takes them... but as they get old, life makes things a lot more complicated.

Personally, I love that we're starting a new year with the energy that platonic love is just as important (if not more) as romantic love. People We Meet on Vacation does eventually inject the rom into rom-com, but the most of the storyline, we're following two people learning to love each other for exactly who they are, and that isn't confined to romance.

Yes, the dreaded homogenous 'Netflix look' that the streamer molds all of its project into is back, and there's nothing note-worthy in its construction. But frankly, I don't think we need any additional razzle dazzle here.

People We Meet on Vacation relies solely on its cast – and you'll fall in love with them

I cannot sing the praises of Bader and Blyth highly enough – even their surnames put together sound like the perfect double act. For Bader, it's a chance to shine in a leading role that could have been easily given to the likes of Sofia Carson or Zoey Deutch. Instead of taking the lazy route, Netflix has been more inventive and daring in its casting, and that has a colossal payoff.

As for Blyth, I think he's more than earned the right to have a bit of fun on screen. After Plainclothes, Wasteman and The Hunger Games: The Ballad of Songbirds & Snakes, it's almost as much of a holiday for us to watch him take on a light-hearted role. Blyth exquisitely toes the line between standoffish and fun-loving, letting his guard down enough to be open to what the world around him has to offer.

Together, they're dynamite. If I'd seen them filming a scene while walking down the street, I'd be fully convinced that the pair hadn't only known each other for years, but were truly head over heels. Chemistry isn't something that can be cast or manufactured, and that makes People We Meet on Vacation all the more special.

Everything comes together naturally, whether that's the budding relationship between our lead duo, the ease of following them around the globe or the ability to be fully invested in their fights and grievances. Combined with Henry's unique take on constructing a romance story, and you've got a mighty end product.

Book lovers, be warned of some changes

Poppy and Alex walk through a crowded New Orleans street

Cheers to a good rom-com, guys. (Image credit: Netflix)

Now for the slightly less brilliant news: there are noticeable changes to the original book. It should almost go without saying that a lot has been left on the cutting room floor – transforming a 400-page book into a movie under two hours means there's going to be some casualties. It's nothing that impedes the storytelling... just don't be too disappointed if your favorite travel scene didn't make the cut.

Without giving the game away, the changes are mostly location-based. To a degree, this is logical, given that it might simply be easier to film in certain places than others. However, there's also a big change surrounding how Poppy and Alex eventually end up at David's (Miles Heizer) wedding.

Really, this is only going to bother those who loved the book, as objectively, you'd never be able to tell that anything is out of place. Still, at least we've got a hilariously-placed cameo from Lucien Laviscount (Alfie, for Emily in Paris fans), to smooth over any issues.

People We Meet on Vacation doesn't have wow-factor, but it doesn't need to. In the Netflix romance canon, it stands alone just by doing the basics incredibly well, with an original twist. Binge it this weekend under a pile of blankets while pretending you're on holiday, and you've got the picture-perfect weekend.

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I’ve got wide feet and struggle to find good running shoes — but these Altra shoes with unique lacing system are a supremely comfortable all rounder
4:58 pm | January 8, 2026

Author: admin | Category: Computers Gadgets Health & Fitness | Comments: Off

Altra Timp 5 Boa: Two-minute review

Get Fit for '26

This article is part of our Get Fit for '26 series, in which our writers talk about the wellness and fitness challenges and experiences they've taken on, and the ones set to shape the year ahead. You can read all the articles in the series here.

It's safe to say that the Altra Timp 5 Boa trail running shoes stand out from all the other pairs I've used over the years, including from the likes of Nike, Asics and Inov-8 among others.

The Inov-8 Trailfly G270 V2's are typically a sweet spot for me as someone who lives in the countryside with trails on my doorstep who wants a lightweight but durable, mostly off-road shoe. So how do the Timp 5 Boa trail shoes compare, and could they be one of the best running shoes for my broad feet?

Well, they certainly are an altogether different shoe from those Inov-8's. Altra's hallmarks are a particularly wide toe box and zero drop – two features I appreciate and drew my attention to the brand in the first place.

However, it's the unique lacing system of the 'Boa' version of the Timp 5's that peaked my curiosity. Swapping out traditional laces, there's a dial which tightens and loosens the lace, enabling quick and precise adjustments. Kind of like ski boots.

I was concerned how effective this system would be, expecting the lace to regularly work its way loose, but those worries were unfounded following multiple 5 mile trails runs over several weeks, tackling hills and all manner of terrain.

Altra Timp 5 Boa running shoe product photos

Push in the dial, rotate, and the lace tightens. Pull out the dial and the whole lace loosens. The unique lacing system is super easy. (Image credit: Tim Coleman)

Quick and micro adjustments are a doddle with this lacing system, which was a godsend given that I broke two fingers during the review period (unrelated, I promise – I stacked it in a skate park when rolling back the years on my daughter's scooter), and had limited use of one hand.

I've consequently lived in the Timp 5 Boa's because traditional laces were particularly tricky, but this lacing dial is manageable with one hand.

Altra Timp 5 Boa running shoe product photos

I found the Altra Timp 5 Boa's a little slow for running, but they are supremely comfortable for long days on your feet. (Image credit: Tim Coleman)

I like the look of the Timp 5 Boas too, even if the upper mesh is hard to clean after muddy trail runs to smarten them up for use afterwards as a day shoe.

And at 10oz / 286g, they are heavier than the average running shoe – I found them slow going for running (compared to those light Inov-8 shoes), so my pace was a little slower than I would like.

I'm used to zero drop shoes, but I did get a small strain on my achilles after totting up the miles in those Altra shoes. You might not be affected in the same way.

The stretch 'sock' fabric cut into the outside of my ankle on occasion, too, if I had the tightening set incorrectly to my feet. Again, that might not be an issue for you.

I don't think I've find my new fast trail shoes, sadly, but the Timp 5 Boa's have otherwise been supremely comfortable and are clearly durable. These are my new top pick for long days on my feet, and I will definitely get a lot of use from them.

The Altra Timp 5 Boa's cost $185 / £155 on the Altra website, but you can also find discounted prices at other leading retailers – I've seen as much as 40% off even at the time of writing, which feels more reasonable.

Altra Timp 5 Boa: Specifications

Component

Altra Timp 5 Boa

Weight:

10oz / 286g

Upper:

Quick-dry air mesh

Midsole

Altra EGO™ MAX

Outsole

Vibram® Megagrip

Heel-to-toe drop

0mm

Altra Timp 5 Boa: Scorecard

Category

Comment

Score

Value

No discount at the time of writing at Altra, and relatively pricey

4/5

Design

Wide toebox gives room for feet to breathe, zero heel drop might not suit all

4.5/5

Features

Unique lacing system works a charm for micro adjustments and snug support, Vibram midsole adds durability

4.5/5

Performance

Supremely comfortable, but not the quickest running shoe

4/5

Altra Timp 5 Boa running shoe product photos

(Image credit: Tim Coleman)

Altra Timp 5 Boa: Should I buy?

Buy it if...

You have wide feet

The wide toe box is designed for people with wide feet and is certainly spacious.

You want a comfortable every day shoe

Slighly heavy for running, the cushioned Timp 5 Boa's are arguably a better pick for long days on your feet.

Don't buy it if...

You want a high speed running shoe

At 10oz / 286g, these are heavier than average shoes, not PB-assisting ones.

You want a smart-looking running shoe

I love the lacing system and overall like the look, but the hard-to-clean mesh isn't ideal for a trail shoe.

Also consider

Inov-8 Trailfly G270 V2

If you want a faster trail running shoe, I recommend the Inov-8 Trailfly G270 V2 instead – it's lighter, extremely durable and likewise has a zero drop.

Read my full Inov-8 Trailfly G270 V2 review

Altra Timp 5 Boa running shoe product photos

(Image credit: Tim Coleman)

Altra Timp 5 Boa: how I tested

  • Used as my primary everyday shoe and running shoe for 1 month
  • My typical running distance was around 25km per week
  • I ran on mixed terrain; technical trails, footpaths and roads, flat and hilly, and used these as day to day shoes

I pretty much lived in the Altra Timp 5 Boa's for a month, using them as my every day shoe for walking, hiking and commuting. I also completed numerous trail runs – about three per week for a month, with a typical weekly distance of around 25kms.

I live in the hilly countryside and most of the running I do covers mixed terrain and run in all kinds of weather. I've run on trails, footpaths and roads; wet and dry; flat and hilly. Just about any scenario you can imagine.

First reviewed: December 2025

This pocket-sized Bluetooth speaker takes aim at the JBL Go 4 — but sadly, 3 key flaws hold it back
1:56 pm |

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

Tribit PocketGo: two-minute review

The Tribit PocketGo is an ultra-small Bluetooth speaker that comes with an equally small price tag. It’s lightweight, can be easily hooked up, and is ideal for on the go use thanks to its pocket-sized form.

But there are even more positives worth pointing to. For instance, this model has exceptional IP68 dust and waterproofing, meaning its fit for just about any environment, be that your shower, a pool, the beach… you name it. It's also fairly sturdy, so should survive the occasional drop.

One more positive is the model’s 20 hour battery life, which is right up there with the best Bluetooth speakers in its size class. Unfortunately, though, this is where much of my praise reaches its end.

See, the most important thing for any Bluetooth speaker is to sound good. And even when accounting for this speaker's limited size, I still think it falls flat in a few areas. Of course, you’re not going to expect much in the bass department, but I felt that audio could get muddied too easily on the PocketGo, with a generally one-note sound. Compression is also pretty prominent at higher volumes, and dynamics are pretty lacking.

Don’t get me wrong, the Tribit PocketGo isn’t the worst sounding speaker I’ve heard, not by some margin. Mids and highs still sound clear enough at mid-volumes, and less demanding tracks come through pretty well. But its obvious rival – the JBL Go 4 – sounds considerably better, and comes at a pretty similar cost.

Speaking of the JBL Go 4, it's clear that it was a huge source of inspiration for Tribit’s small-sized speaker. The two models look highly similar, but Tribit’s speaker doesn’t quite have the same level of refinement, and isn’t available in the same broad, exciting array of colors.

It’s not all doom and gloom, though. There’s an effective nine-band equalizer and a commendable selection of EQ presets. I was also interested to see microSD playback onboard – not something you’d see from a lot of rivals.

But in the end, it just feels as if the PocketGo fails to beat out its hero, the JBL Go 4. It doesn’t have the visual flair, the audio quality, or the sophisticated app required to assert supremacy. And as a result, I can’t recommend Tribit’s small speaker outright.

Fabric hook on the Tribit PocketGo

(Image credit: Future)

Tribit PocketGo review: price and release date

  • $34.99 / £29.99 / AU$49.99
  • Launched in November 2025

The Tribit PocketGo released in November 2025, and can be purchased in a range of color options, including Black, Blue, and Green. It has a list price of $34.99 / £29.99 / AU$49.99, which is a fair bit cheaper than the typical cost of its main competitor, the JBL Go 4, which is $49.95 / £39.99 / AU$59.95.

It's worth noting that Tribit isn't alone in wanting to offer the Go 4 for less; another option we tested, the AO mini portable wireless speaker, tried (in the UK at least) to match JBL's option for a cheaper £29 (around $34). But sadly, neither has fully succeeded…

Tribit PocketGo review: specs

Weight

0.5lbs / 220g

Dimensions

4.3 x 3.2 x 1.7 inches / 108 x 81 x 42mm

Connectivity

Bluetooth 6.0

Battery life

20 hours

Speaker drivers

1x 7W full range

Waterproofing

IP68

Tribit PocketGo review: features

  • Pleasing customizable EQ options
  • Impressive 20-hour battery life
  • Multi-speaker pairing, but no Auracast

The Tribit PocketGo has a decent set of features, with a few customization features available through the Tribit companion app. This opens up a bunch of EQ presets for different genres and listening environments, as well as a nine-band custom equalizer, which is a most welcome inclusion.

There’s not much more to explore in the app, though. You can control audio playback, alter the auto shutdown window, and toggle voice prompts on and off, but that’s about it. There are no battery preservation options, device management section, or anything out of the ordinary. I was also surprised to see Auracast left out, especially given the use of Bluetooth 6.0. You can pair two speakers together for stereo playback, though.

Another small thing worth noting is that the app isn’t the best I’ve used. It has a fairly rudimentary appearance, and I also experienced an issue where the app wouldn’t allow me to upgrade the speaker’s firmware. It believed that I wasn’t using the latest version of the companion software, but even after updating the app, I still couldn’t upgrade to the latest firmware, which was puzzling.

Anyway, your mileage may vary on that issue, and there are still plenty of good features to discuss. For instance, hands-free calling is available on the PocketGo thanks to its built-in mic. Quality-wise, the mic is just OK – a colleague said that I sounded pretty distant, but my words were still discernible. But one good thing is that the built-in mic enables you to use a voice assistant, which some users will appreciate.

One of the key benefits of the PocketGo is also its battery life. 20 hours is a very generous portion of playtime for a speaker of this size, though it’s worth noting that you can expect less if you’re listening at more than 50% volume. Still, 20 hours is almost three times the battery life of the JBL Go 4, which is the PocketGo’s nearest rival.

Finally, you’re able to play music from a microSD card thanks to a TF card input slot on the speaker. This isn’t something I’ve seen from a lot of rival models, and though it doesn’t seem to be the most practical way to enjoy your tunes, playback was stable when I tested it out.

  • Features score: 3.5/5

Buttons on top of the Tribit PocketGo

(Image credit: Future)

Tribit PocketGo review: sound quality

  • Mid-range and treble perform decently at mid-volume
  • Bass is lacking, largely due to restricted size
  • Lacks the dynamism and expression of the JBL Go 4

I’ll put my cards on the table – the Tribit PocketGo isn’t the best-sounding speaker I’ve tested, but it does have some redeeming qualities.

When listening to Black Eye by Allie X, the rapid-fire drum machine never sounded lethargic or bloated, although it did lack quite a bit of depth. That’s largely down to the small size of the PocketGo, which is light on power and can’t reach down all too deeply.

Higher in the frequency range, sudden percussive hits didn’t quite have the bite I’d hoped for – and generally the speaker’s dynamics never blew me away – but treble sounds were never harsh or uncontrolled at 50% volume or less. Vocals were also clear in the mix, which made for a decent overall listen, although I will say that they started to get muddied when I pushed volume above that 60-70% mark.

Tracks that feature sub-bass or generally deeper bass won’t fare well at all on the PocketGo. As I mentioned, there are some limitations here, so it’s to be expected, but tracks like 12 O.C Riddim by M-High featured almost inaudible low-frequency elements, which stripped them of the energy and excitement bass heads will be seeking out.

With a less demanding track like I’ve Got Your Number by Ned Doheny, there was a notable improvement, though. Strumming acoustic guitars were clear even with soulful vocals at the fore, and mid-bass – though not particularly impactful – came through cleanly. Again, there was very noticeable compression as I edged towards top volumes, but this speaker can get pretty loud for its size, so you might not need to crank things all the way to the top.

When I compared the PocketGo against its rival, the JBL Go 4, the latter model typically performed better. The PocketGo could get louder, but it had a less expressive overall sound, with the Go 4 plating up superior instrument separation and dynamics. Both speakers suffer from similar restrictions due to their size – neither gave me amazing deep bass or beautifully layered, detailed sound. But I think the Go 4 is the better sounding model.

  • Sound quality score: 3/5

Tribit PocketGo in someone's hand

(Image credit: Future)

Tribit PocketGo review: design

  • A less refined-looking JBL Go 4
  • Small and lightweight
  • Exceptional IP68 dust and waterproofing

Let’s address the elephant in the room here. To say that the Tribit PocketGo is inspired by the JBL Go 4 would be an understatement.

This is almost a one-for-one copy, featuring a fabric speaker grille, a rubber control pad, and small loop for hanging the speaker up. It’s not as refined or premium looking as JBL’s model, though, and its color options aren’t the most exciting, meaning it's not my favorite looks-wise.

But there are some definite positives to discuss in regard to this speaker’s design. First of all, it’s pleasingly compact and lightweight, coming in at just 0.5lbs / 220g. Its fabric loop also makes it easy to place on a hook – though I’d recommend laying it flat or on its base to listen to music, if you want the best audio quality.

What’s more, the Tribit PocketGo has an IP68 rating. That means it’s fully protected against dust, and highly waterproof too. More specifically, it can live through a 30 minute dunking under a meter and a half of water – it doesn’t get much better than that. In addition, it has a fairly solid construction, and should easily survive the occasional drop.

  • Design score: 3/5

Reverse side of the Tribit PocketGo

(Image credit: Future)

Tribit PocketGo review: value

  • Has a very modest price tag
  • Although you can grab an on-sale JBL Go 4 for similar
  • Fairly average overall quality

The Tribit PocketGo is a very budget friendly option, coming in with a list price of just $34.99 / £29.99 / AU$49.99.

Of course, this speaker is far from perfect. It produces average audio with solid mid-range and treble output at mid-volumes, but limited instrument separation and poor overall sound at louder levels. Its design is also a little unoriginal, and there are some missing features I would’ve liked to see.

But when you consider its impressive playtime, excellent waterproofing, and compact build, there is still plenty to like. Is it going to blow you away for the price? Perhaps not, but I still think you get what you pay for.

Still, would I recommend it outright? Not exactly. I think the JBL Go 4 is still the stronger pick if you’re seeking out a cheap, small-sized option. It may have a slightly higher list price, but it's on sale fairly regularly for around $40 / £35 / AU$49. Its superior sound quality and aesthetic makes it the better pick, for me.

  • Value score: 3.5/5

Buttons on top of the Tribit PocketGo

(Image credit: Future)

Should I buy the Tribit PocketGo?

Attributes

Notes

Rating

Features

Great battery life, but lacks Auracast, and companion app is pretty rudimentary.

3.5/5

Sound quality

OK sounding at mid-volume, but struggles beyond that, generally one-note audio.

3/5

Design

A little too close to the JBL Go 4, but lightweight and highly waterproof.

3/5

Value

Overall, you get what you pay for, but no more than that.

3.5/5

Buy it if...

You want a compact speaker to take on the go
One of my favorite things about the PocketGo is its satisfyingly small size, which makes it easy to throw in a bag or, well you know, in your pocket. It’s also dust and waterproof, meaning it's fit for use in any environment.

You’re on a tight budget
The low list price of the Tribit PocketGo makes it an enticing option. Its audio isn’t going to blow you away, and it's not the prettiest looking speaker on the market, but its long battery life and lightweight build may tempt you.

Don't buy it if...

You want great sound quality
Of course, some of this speaker’s flaws are linked to the inherent restrictions of its size. For instance, you can’t expect deep bass or amazing loudness here. But even still, this model left a little to be desired sonically, with a fairly one-note sound, limited instrument separation, and harsh audio at higher volumes.

You’re looking for something with style
This model looks a little bit too similar to the JBL Go 4 for my liking, but doesn’t quite have the refinement and charm of that model. There are less color options to choose from too, so I’d suggest picking the Go 4 over it.

Tribit PocketGo review: also consider

Tribit PocketGo

JBL Go 4

Edifier ES20

Price

$34.99 / £29.99 / AU$49.99

$49.95 / £39.99 / AU$59.95

$89.99 / £50 / AU$99.99

Weight

0.5lbs / 220g

0.6lbs / 285g

0.7lbs / 0.3kg

Dimensions

4.3 x 3.2 x 1.7 inches / 108 x 81 x 42mm

3.7 x 3 x 1.7 inches / 94 x 78 x 42mm

3.6 x 3.7 x 2 inches / 90.4 x 93.7 x 49.7mm

Connectivity

Bluetooth 6.0

Bluetooth 5.3

Bluetooth 5.4

Battery life

20 hours

7 hours

15 hours

Speaker drivers

1x 45mm full range

1x 45mm full range

1x 43mm full range

Waterproofing

IP68

IP67

IP67

JBL Go 4
This is the speaker that the Tribit PocketGo wants to be. It’s not the best sounding speaker ever, but I appreciate the Go 4’s clear mids and controlled treble, and you can adjust EQ to your personal taste. It’s a colorful, well-built, and lightweight option that’s even in my guide to the best Bluetooth speakers. Read our full JBL Go 4 review.

Edifier ES20
The Edifier ES20 was one of my favorite Bluetooth speakers of 2025. It's a little larger than the PocketGo and Go 4, but it’s still nice and compact, and highly waterproof. Sonically, this is an excellent choice, with surprisingly detailed mids, punchy bass, and expressive treble. Read our full Edifier ES20 review.

Tribit PocketGo review: how I tested

Tab on Tribit PocketGo pulled to one side, revealing USB-C and microSD card slots

(Image credit: Future)
  • Tested within a one-week period
  • Mainly used at home
  • Predominantly tested using Tidal

I tested the Tribit PocketGo over a week-long period, mainly using it at home. During my time with the speaker, I spent hours listening to music, exhausted all of its features, and even compared it directly against the JBL Go 4.

When listening to tunes, I made sure to start with the TechRadar testing playlist, which features tracks from a range of genres. I also listened to songs from my personal library through both Tidal and Spotify.

And more generally, I’ve reviewed dozens of Bluetooth speakers here at TechRadar – more than 30 to be precise. As a result, I’m highly familiar with the PocketGo’s competition, and 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
Hands on: HP EliteBook X G2i
8:10 am | January 7, 2026

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

My colleagues in the USA are busy covering CES, but HP didn’t want Australia to miss out – so the company shipped me a pre-release version of the new business-focused EliteBook X G2i running the newly released Intel Core Ultra X7 358H CPU.

Sadly, one of the conditions is that I can’t regale you with benchmarks (for now), but I can give you a sneak peek at a very impressive laptop.

While HP announced multiple EliteBook X G2i variants, the one I have is special – it’s the lightweight model that weighs under 1kg. Technically, it actually measured xxxxxx (redacted) grams on my scales, but that’s close enough in my book.

The EliteBook X G2i is impressively light in hand, and despite feeling almost hollow, it’s very sturdy, and has little flex in the 14-inch shell.

HP EliteBook X G2i laptop

(Image credit: Future)

The full spec is below, but I got hands-on with the Intel Core Ultra X7 358H equipped variant, with 32GB of RAM and a 1TB SSD. HP also announced the EliteBook X G2a with the latest CPUs from AMD, as well as the EliteBook X G2q that will use processors from Qualcomm.

HP also announced a 2-in-1 EliteBook X Flip that shares many of the same specs, but has a fold back screen. You can read more about the EliteBook X G2 Series directly from HP.

There are various display options, but I have the 14-inch 3K OLED (2880 x 1800), with a 120Hz (VRR) refresh rate, a 500 nit brightness and DCI-P3 100% color. In the non-lightweight model (only 100 grams more), you can get the same panel with (or without) a touchscreen, or a range of 1920 x 1200 OLED or IPS screens.

My favorite feature here is that the screen folds back through 180 degrees, which makes it easy to sit the laptop securely in a stand next to a monitor, and minimise the amount of desk space taken up. In use, the OLED is vibrant and bright, and the higher 3K resolution makes it easy to get the most out of the compact 14-inch screen.

USB-C connectivity is great, with dual Thunderbolt 4 on the left, and a 10Gbps port (that also supports charging and DisplayPort 2.1) on the right. You also get USB-A on the right, a Kensington lock port, and HDMI 2.1 and a 3.5mm headset jack on the left.

That’s pretty good for such a compact lightweight laptop, and my only tiny complaint is that I wish there was a little more space between the two Thunderbolt 4 USB-C ports, to make it easier to plug in both a dock cable and a fast USB drive.

The laptop will run up to four monitors, or three if you want to stick with USB-C only. You also get Intel Wi-Fi 7 BE211 (2x2) and Bluetooth 6, plus a facial recognition webcam (with privacy shutter) – though a fingerprint sensor is an optional extra.

HP EliteBook X G2i: Price & availability

HP has not given any pricing or an exact date for when the EliteBook X G2i and X Flip G2i will be available, but you can expect them in February 2026.

The wider EliteBook X G2 family, including the EliteBook X G2a and EliteBook X G2q, is not expected until later in the year.

HP EliteBook X G2i laptop

(Image credit: Future)

HP EliteBook X G2i: Specs

There are quite a few variants of the HP EliteBook X G2i, but the specs below are for the lightweight clamshell variant.

CPU

Intel Core Ultra X7 358H

GPU

Intel Arc B930

Display

14in 3K OLED (2880 x 1800), 120Hz (VRR), anti-glare, 500 nits, DCI-P3 100%

RAM

32GB LPDDR5x 8533MT/s

Storage

1TB PCIe NVMe M.2 SSD (954GB usable)

Connectivity

Wi-Fi 7, Bluetooth 6

Ports

Right: USB-C 10Gbps (USB PD, DP 2.1), USB-A 10Gbps (powered), security lock slot, optional nano-SIM. Left: 2x Thunderbolt 4 (USB PD, DP 2.1), HDMI 2.1, 3.5mm headset jack

Dimensions

312.7 x 219.9 x 9.15mm (front), 14.41mm (rear)

Weight

999g

Operating system

Windows 11 Pro

HP EliteBook X G2i: Design and build

HP EliteBook X G2i laptop

(Image credit: Future)

The lightweight EliteBook X G2i feels very premium the moment you pick it up and while impressively light, it doesn’t feel flimsy, and the whole 14-inch shell is quite rigid. Even the hinge is nicely tuned and opens fairly effortlessly one-handed, but still holds its position once you’ve set the screen angle.

There’s also very little flex in the lid or keyboard deck, and it generally feels like a laptop that will handle being used on the go, day in and day out.

The laptop's look is understated in the way I personally love: the branding is subtle, it’s very professional looking, and the rounded edges make it nice to handle. The lightweight model only comes in “Atmospheric Blue”, but it suits the design.

It does pick up fingerprints easily, though the finish also wipes clean quite easily, so it’s quick to make it look a bit neater before an important meeting.

The trackpad is large, accurate in use and has a good solid haptic click. The keyboard matches the premium feel, and there’s very little bounce. The keys have reasonably deep travel and it’s comfortable for long typing sessions, even with larger hands. I didn’t see any annoying low-angle backlight glow bleeding out under the keys.

It’s also great to see HP putting real effort into materials, and the clamshell covers use up to 90% recycled magnesium, plus there’s recycled content used across parts like the bezel, speaker enclosure, keycaps and more.

HP EliteBook X G2i: Performance

HP EliteBook X G2i laptop

(Image credit: Future)

Again, I can’t give any specific benchmarks at this stage, but I have run the EliteBook X G2i through the full range of TechRadar tests. While there were a few inconsistent results and teething issues (which are normal for a pre-product sample and a new CPU), overall performance is excellent.

You can read more about some of the expected numbers directly from Intel, but suffice to say, the new Core Ultra Series 3 CPUs are very impressive, and thanks to a very powerful iGPU, make Intel powered laptops more competitive against the best from AMD and Qualcomm.

The Core Ultra X7 358H in the EliteBook X G2i isn’t hugely faster than last gen CPUs like the last gen Core Ultra 7 265H in single core tasks, but multicore performance is significantly better. But it’s the Intel Arc B930 that is most impressive, and it runs rings around last gen iGPUs like the Intel Arc 140V and even Radeon 890M.

In fact, it’s good enough to compete directly with low end dedicated GPUs in creator laptops (with more limited power profiles), and will happily handle casual gaming.

HP EliteBook X G2i laptop

(Image credit: Future)

Based on Intel’s numbers, the Core Ultra X7 358H happily bests the AMD Ryzen AI 9 HX 370 and is much closer to the higher wattage AMD Ryzen AI Max Pro 390 – though the Arc B390 iGPU still falls short of the Radeon 8050S.

In normal everyday use, the EliteBook X G2i is cool and quiet, but when pushed, it is noticeably noisy. That’s to be expected in such a thin and lightweight laptop, and in fact HP has done a great job of getting impressive sustained performance from the CPU, and the sound level is a perfectly acceptable tradeoff.

The lightweight variant of the laptop I have uses a 56Wh battery, while the normal G2i can also be equipped with a bigger 68Wh battery. While I can't share exact runtimes, battery life is very impressive, and it’s on par with (or better than) the best results from similar spec laptops using older Intel CPUs, or the best from AMD and Qualcomm. While battery life drops under sustained heavier workloads, the EliteBook X G2i is more than capable of lasting through an entire day of work.

AI performance is not a major drawcard for most people yet, but the Ultra X7 358H has a 50 TOPS NPU that will help with many workloads, and be increasingly useful as time goes on.

The EliteBook X G2i comes with a compact 65W USB-C charger, and tops up quite quickly, but we found it a little finicky and it didn’t always charge at the full rate from some 65W (or higher) chargers and power banks. Considering it uses USB PD spec for charging, these are likely just early quibbles with the laptop being more conservative about it making sure it is connected to a suitable performance charger.

HP EliteBook X G2i: Final thoughts

HP EliteBook X G2i laptop

(Image credit: Future)

While we'll reserve final judgment until we get hands-on with a production version of the laptop, based on my time with the G2i, it's absolutely one worth putting on your shortlist for a 2026 upgrade.

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