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Thrustmaster T-GT II force feedback wheel review: as good as belt-driven force feedback gets
2:00 pm | August 25, 2024
Author: admin | Category: Computers Gadgets Gaming Gaming Accessories | Tags: , | Comments: Off

Thrustmaster T-GT II: One-minute review

The mid-range of the best racing wheels is a tricky space where competing technologies vie for space, but Thrustmaster makes a compelling argument with a wheel, wheelbase, and pedals bundled for $799.99 / £699.99. 

That’s a lot pricier than Logitech’s all-conquering G923 bundle, but the advantages are clear: a quick-release system that lets you install new wheels and a particularly refined force feedback sensation that feels somewhere between traditional belt-driven and direct-drive servos. The underlying tech is still belt-driven, but it’s been engineered so carefully to deliver its considerable power smoothly and convincingly, with fewer of those notchy, snappy moments you usually get with belt-driven motors. 

The controls on the wheel feel premium and long-lasting, particularly the four notched dials, which are really handy for mapping traction control, brake balance, engine modes, and fuel maps. Being a licensed wheel for Gran Turismo 7 and pitched as one of the best PS5 racing wheels, the giant ‘GT’ logo at the center of the wheel won’t be to everyone’s taste, and the overall look of the wheel - and particularly the plasticky pedal base - does this bundle a disservice. Despite the high volume of plastic and a slightly ‘gamey’ look this is up to the task for serious sim racers, who’ll appreciate the ability to fit different wheels for different disciplines. 

Thrustmaster T-GT II

(Image credit: Future)

Thrustmaster T-GT II: Price and availability

  • $799.99 / £699.99 (around) AU$1,221.99
  • Sits between entry-level force feedback and direct drive wheels
  • Pricier but more feature-laden than a G923 

It might look like a lot of money for a non-direct drive wheel at first glance, but it all makes sense after a few hot laps. The wiser money would be spent investing in a Fanatec Ready2Race McLaren bundle for the same price, but ongoing stock availability issues make that a tricky purchase as of summer 2024.

Thrustmaster T-GT II: Specs

Thrustmaster T-GT II: Design and features

  • Looks inspired by Gran Turismo
  • Bulky servo
  • Feels better than it looks

There’s a line in the sand in sim racing gear. On one side, Moza and Fanatec have decided to take their visual cues directly from motorsport, rather than gaming peripherals. Their wheels and pedals look like they’ve been crowbarred out of a racing car and attached to your desk. On the other, Logitech and Thrustmaster - who also make a broad range of gaming peripherals besides wheels - have a design philosophy that sits closer to gaming mice, gaming keyboards, and gaming headsets. 

Who’s right? That’s totally subjective, of course. To me the less automotive appearance of the T-GT II comes off as a bit less premium than this bundle really is, particularly the plastic casing around the servo and on the pedal base, which really doesn’t look like it should be part of an $800 / £700 racing bundle.

Thrustmaster T-GT II

(Image credit: Future)

However, these aesthetic missteps have no bearing on the performance of either the wheels or pedals, and since the wheel’s detachable, you could replace it with a more motorsport-inspired option like Thrustmaster’s Ferrari SF100 if you like. 

The wheel itself is finished in nicely stitched pleather which makes for a grippy surface while you’re racing, with no need for racing gloves, unlike pricier Alcantara-finished wheels which can get a bit crispy over time if you subject them to your palm sweat. 

Being a PlayStation-compatible wheel as well as PC, all the DualSense controller’s inputs are mapped onto input buttons on the wheel itself, including two tiny analog sticks. Four dials complete the input array on the wheel face, and satisfyingly chunky paddle shifters with magnetic actuation sit at the rear. All the buttons feel substantial and the dials in particular are a joy to use, notched and manufactured from aluminum for a lovely weighty feel. The analog sticks and d-pad feel flimsy by comparison, but I didn’t find myself using them - there are plenty of other buttons to map important inputs to. 

Those four dials are the stars of the show. They’re placed conveniently within thumb’s reach, and having four of them is especially useful in games like Assetto Corsa Competizione (ACC), where I find myself adjusting traction control and brake bias frequently from lap to lap as track conditions and tire wear levels evolve. It’s rare to find more than two dials on wheels at this price, and I find myself missing having four now when I use other wheels. 

The pedals don’t feature a load cell design, so you can’t swap out the cells to adjust the resistance, but they are built with convincing resistance per pedal. The brake is particularly well-judged for stiffness, and you can add an additional rubber stay for some increased resistance right at the end of its path of travel.

Thrustmaster T-GT II: Performance

  • Powerful but smooth force feedback delivery
  • Easy to calibrate
  • Recognized by most racing games

Let’s quickly state the obvious: although this wheel was designed in collaboration with Gran Turismo developer Polyphony Digital and bears the PlayStation racer’s branding, it’s compatible across pretty much every racing game you throw at it on PS5 or PC. Assetto Corsa Competizione and F1 24 had profiles ready to go as soon as I loaded them up with the T-GT II connected, and I had no problems setting it up in The Crew Motorfest or Forza Horizon 5. You’d expect pretty much universal support across racing titles in 2024, and this wheel delivers it. 

What discerns the force feedback on this wheel from the perennially popular Logitech G923, and indeed Thrustmaster’s own cheaper wheels, is the smoothness and detail of its feedback. It’s a subtle difference, not quite akin to the jump from belt-driven to direct-drive wheels, but it’s particularly noticeable in demanding sims like Assetto Corsa Competizione, whose force feedback implementation is absolutely exemplary. You can feel when your platform’s on the very limit, and rather than getting those snappy moments that feel like something inside the servo has let go, the T-GT II’s wheel stays smooth even when it’s doling out extremely forceful feedback. 

In some instances, it feels too strong. In most games, the centering spring strength needed some adjustment using a combination of in-game settings and Thrustmaster’s own Control Panel software, and in ACC in particular I ended up reducing it down to as little as 20 per cent in order to find a realistic feel. However, once you do get a convincing feel dialed in, the detail and fidelity you feel through your hands is extremely impressive.

Thrustmaster T-GT II

(Image credit: Future)

What about Gran Turismo 7? As you’d expect, it’s excellent with this wheel. Polyphony’s is a particularly weighty handling model in the first place, and it’s perfectly tuned to this wheel when you connect it to your PS5.    

However, the fact remains that direct-drive wheel bundles are available at the same price point, and that makes life difficult for this particular wheel. It’s demonstrably better than its belt-driven contemporaries from other manufacturers, and lower down the Thrustmaster range. But it’s no match for a setup built around Fanatec’s CSL direct drive servo. Cheaper Fanatec bundles than the T-GT II generally feature an inferior two-pedal set, but the Ready2Race McLaren bundle uses a three-pedal base with load cells, and the McLaren GT-style wheel feels more luxurious and automotive than this model. 

The best mandate for opting for this instead of a Fanatec bundle, then, is that you play primarily on PS5, put in a lot of hours with Gran Turismo 7, and want to use the same setup for some PC sim racing. 

Should I buy the Thrustmaster T-GT II?

Thrustmaster T-GT II

(Image credit: Future)

Buy it if...

Gran Turismo 7 is your go-to racing sim
This wheel’s PS5 and PC compatible, and designed in partnership with Polyphony to work especially well in GT7. Drifting a Demio never felt better. 

You like a powerful force feedback sensation
The centering spring is set heavy by default, and there’s a lot of power behind the feedback going into your hands. 

You plan to swap between multiple wheels
Like to race rally titles as well as F1 games and GT? Thrustmaster’s add-on wheels are a solid option for making your rig more customizable, all using the T-GT II wheelbase.  

Don't buy it if...

You race on Xbox
It’s not Xbox-compatible, simple as that. Fanatec and Logitech offer better PC/Xbox bundles for the money.

Direct drive bundles are within your budget
As impressive as the sensation is for a belt-driven motor, DD is a superior feel and it’s available for roughly the same outlay.

You’re new to sim racing
It’s a lot of money for a racing bundle, and the benefits to its feel are subtle. Logitech’s G923 is better suited to beginners, and comes in PC/Xbox and PC/PlayStation varieties.

Also consider...

If the Thrustmaster T-GT II isn’t quite what you’re after, alert yourself to these other candidates.

Thrustmaster T248
A cheaper, less powerful option that’s great for newcomers, if lacking centering spring snap. Surprisingly good pedals for the price, too. 

For more information, check out our full Thrustmaster T248 review

Logitech G923
It’s ubiquitous for a reason. Well-built, a smart button layout, and Trueforce feedback add something extra to supported games when it comes to detailed articulation.

For more information, check out our full Logitech G923 review

How I tested the Thrustmaster T-GT II

  • Over a month of regular use during testing
  • Used with PC and PS5
  • Racing sims and arcade titles tested

We installed the T-GT II into our Playseat and used it as our daily driver in Assetto Corsa Competizione, Gran Turismo 7, The Crew Motorfest, and Forza Horizon 5 for a month of virtual racing on both PC and PlayStation 5. You don’t want to know how much of a hassle it was to get the rig downstairs in front of the PS5... 

Read more about how we test

First reviewed August 2024.

Corsair TC500 Luxe Gaming Chair review: as lavish as it gets
4:00 pm | August 18, 2024
Author: admin | Category: Computers Gadgets Gaming Gaming Accessories | Comments: Off

One-minute review

Before you've even assembled it, the Corsair TC500 Luxe feels like an unbelievably high quality gaming chair. From its quilted fabric seat to its steel frame, it's hard not to praise every aspect of the chair. However, a chair this high quality means a relatively higher price point. But, I believe the Corsair TC500 Luxe is well worth the investment. 

Alongside its sturdy and comfortable build, it's got a plethora of features to help you tailor it to exactly what you need from your seat. In-built lumbar support is easily adjusted with two dials on each side of the backrest, and the magnetic neck support pillow is much easier to change the height for than the one attached to a strap like on the Boulies Master Series gaming chair which I am used to using, and used to readjusting when the strap inevitably slips off the top of the chair. 

In addition, omniflex armrests are ready to move around to suit however you're sitting and support your elbows and arms. For such a high level of personalization, it's hard to argue against its price point. Frankly, there's no other product I would recommend to someone looking for a gaming chair that is so comfortable and supportive in this price bracket.

A close up shot of the top of a Corsair Gaming Chair in a plain room.

(Image credit: Future)

Price and availability

  • $499.99 / £499.99
  • Available through Corsair
  • 2 year warranty

The Corsair TC500 Luxe is an expensive chair. If you're a first time buyer when it comes to gaming chairs, the price tag might be overwhelming. But for $499.99 / £499.99 you're buying a chair that is guaranteed comfort from the second it's built, and a level of customization you wouldn't find in even the best budget gaming chairs. You're paying for premium and you’re getting it. 

Three colorways are currently available. Frost, Sherwood, and Shadow. All three, although fairly basic colors, feel like a sophisticated approach to gaming furniture. I'm used to seeing quite garish designs on chairs like the League of Legends Secretlab series, or even the Herman Miller Sayl gaming chair. Having three muted yet modern colors on offer  almost guarantees you'll be able to find something that suits your setup's aesthetic. 

A two year warranty is available from purchase as well, which is worthwhile but not as significant as other products currently available at a similar price point. For example, the Herman Miller Sayl is double the price of the TC500 Luxe, but offers an incredible 12-year warranty, or the Razer Fujin Pro which offers a slightly more humble five years. But, two years is still decent, and welcome.

Specs

Design and aesthetics

The Corsair TC500 Luxe has been designed with comfort as its main focus, but that doesn't mean any corners have been cut elsewhere. Rather than having your standard decals or colorful flourishes you'd see on other gaming chairs such as the Secretlab Titan Evo series or the Razer Enki, a more sleek design has been taken on board with a dark gray color for the chair itself and then black accents through its armrests and wheelbase.

The fabric of the chair itself is soft and breathable, which I found to be a nice change to the pleather or suede feel fabric used on cheaper chairs. It's not plush, but it's more comfortable and easy to move around on. The stitched details such as the diamond design sewn onto the seat and backrest are also a nice addition, reinforcing the premium, sophisticated feel of the chair. A Corsair logo stitched on the neck support pillow and the side of the chairs headrest is another detail which I appreciated.

The seat base is wider than my previous chair too. The TC500 Luxe has a seat base width of 59cm, which is significantly wider than the width of the Boulies Master Series gaming chair which was 53cm including the sides. On paper, it doesn't seem like a huge difference but when in use, that extra 6cm gives you a surprising amount of additional space. I'm a huge fidgeter, and having a seat base which is wider overall helped me find a position that suited me much faster than usual.

A side on shot of a Corsair Gaming Chair in a plain room.

(Image credit: Future)

Comfort and adjustability

The TC500 Luxe isn't in short supply when it comes to customizable features. Its omniflex armrests give you complete freedom of movement, so you can adjust the height and direction of your armrests, alongside how far forward or backwards you want them. The only downside to this feature is that the armrests don’t lock into place, so if you lean on them at an angle with too much force (which I did more than once when adjusting my position in the seat) they will move out of place.

The wider seat gives you plenty of space to sit comfortably, and as someone who usually sits with their legs up on the seat, there was never a moment where it felt like a squeeze. But one thing I did immediately notice about the chair is how firm the seat cushioning is. A lot of the gaming chairs I've used previously such as the Boulies Master Series and the Secretlab Titan have a slight give on the seat to make it feel softer. The TC500 Luxe on the other hand is an incredibly firm seat. At first, I thought this would make the chair more uncomfortable when used for long periods, but it actually did the complete opposite. Instead, my whole body felt supported by the backrest and seat, and I didn't find myself slumping down into a position with terrible posture as I was before.

The back of a Corsair Gaming Chair in a plain room.

(Image credit: Future)

This is definitely helped by the in-built lumbar support of the chair which can easily be adjusted either side of the backrest with two wheels. One shifts the lumbar support vertically, while the other tailors support from left to right so you can perfectly pinpoint where you need support. In the past I've used this in-built support as a one-and-done thing, adjusting it the first time I sit in the chair and then leaving it to inevitably be ignored even when I shift position. But given how easy it is to adjust with the TC500, it was a feature I was happy to make the most of frequently. 

The magnetic neck support pillow is also a lavish flourish, and one of my personal favorite parts of the chair. I don't like how a lot of gaming chairs attach their neck support pillows to a fabric elastic band for you to pull over the headrest. They are clumsy, and the slightest shift in your position tends to result in the pillow moving around. The TC500 uses magnets, so once you've placed the pillow it will stay there until you need to remove it or change positions manually. Also, the pillow itself is made from plush memory foam, so that in itself exudes comfort and quality.

Assembly

I expected there to be a lot more steps to construct a premium gaming chair, but putting together the Corsair TC500 Luxe was surprisingly easy. Besides needing a bit of help guiding the base of the seat onto the wheel base, assembly can largely be a one person process. Instructions are easy to follow, and you only need a total of ten screws to build the whole chair included in the box. 

Inside its parts box, the allen wrench is also equipped with a large handle to help make screwing parts together even easier. If you're not using this, then a lot of the chair fits together by pushing parts into place such as wheels into the wheelbase or caps into open holes in brackets. 

The chair also has a slide bracket to support one side of the backrest when you're building, much like the AndaSeat Kaiser 4, which makes the process a lot easier. This is usually the part of assembly that makes construction a two-person job, since someone needs to support the backrest while another screws brackets into place. But, the addition of the slide bracket means you have all the support you need. I did have to use a fair bit of strength lining up the other side of the chair which wasn't supported by a slide bracket, but it was nowhere near as challenging as other chairs I've built. 

The assembly process also shows off a lot of the details on the chair, which Corsair has carefully considered to help support the premium labeling of the product. The plastic caps are embellished with Corsair logos, which isn't something I've seen on any other gaming chairs. It's not a detail you'd think to note since it's something so small and easy to overlook. But, it’s details like these that help the TC500 Luxe feel like a chair worth boasting about since everything feels so premium and detail-oriented.

Should I buy the Corsair TC500 Luxe Gaming Chair?

Buy it if...

You want a chair that blends seamlessly with an office space
The sleek design of the TC500 Luxe fits perfectly in a gaming or office space. Its relatively muted design means that it is perfectly suited for someone looking for something for both office work and gaming. 

You need some extra support without relying on pillows
The TC500 Luxe is well equipped with additional support, so you'll be able to tailor your seat to support you where you need it most. You also won't have to fork out for additional pillows to make the seat comfortable, since all its lumbar support is already available.

Don't buy it if...

You don't spend a lot of time with a gaming chair
To make the most of the TC500 Luxe, you need to use it pretty consistently. If you're forking out $500 / £500 for a gaming chair, you want to make the most of it. If you're not using a gaming chair while at your desk or for gaming already, then you might not want to pay for such a premium product.

Also consider...

If you're not quite convinced by the TC500 Luxe, we've got some alternatives you might want to check out. 

Herman Miller Sayl Gaming Chair
Even though the Herman Miller Sayl is more expensive than the TC500 Luxe, it offers a lot more variation in color. You're also investing in a longer warranty for your product, with a whopping 12 years on the line, which will be important to anyone looking to protect their gear for even longer.

For more information, check out our full Herman Miller Sayl Gaming Chair review

AndaSeat Kasier 4
If you're looking to make the most out of lumbar support, the AndaSeat Kaiser 4 is worth considering too. It's got a similar level of customization to the TC500 Luxe, alongside a similar price point, but there's a lot more variation in its appearance. You have a number of colors to choose from, alongside a variety of materials, which is more appealing to someone looking to match their chair to a certain aesthetic. 

For more information, check out our full AndaSeat Kasier 4 review

How I tested the Corsair TC500 Luxe

  • Used over two weeks
  • Used for work and gaming
  • Compared against other gaming chairs

I used the Corsair TC500 Luxe over a two week period for everything from daily work to gaming in the evenings and even watching movies at my PC to see if the chair is comfortable for more leisurely activities. While testing it for gaming, I played games such as Creatures of Ava, Tekken 8, and The Garden Path, alongside mobile games like Hello Kitty Island Adventure. At no point did I feel uncomfortable while using the chair, or as if I needed to shift my position to feel the benefits of its support. 

It's been my primary chair every time I've sat at my desk, but I've closely compared it to the Boulies Master Series and Secretlab Omega to see how it performs to similarly priced products. Each time, the TC500 Luxe impressed me with how supported my spine and shoulders felt, and there has been a noticeable improvement in my posture while in use. Two weeks of consistent use has convinced me that the TC500 Luxe is the only chair I'll need at my desk. 

Read more about how we test

First reviewed August 2024.

Herman Miller Sayl Gaming Chair review: a compact chair that doesn’t compromise on comfort
7:06 pm | August 7, 2024
Author: admin | Category: Computers Gadgets Gaming Gaming Accessories | Tags: | Comments: Off

One-minute review

The Herman Miller Sayl Gaming Chair is easily one of the best gaming chairs and most comfortable gaming chairs on the market if you’re shopping specifically for something that will fit in a smaller setup. Its frameless design is quite unlike anything else available right now, using a slightly flexible plastic mesh that gently curves to support the shape of your spine. 

There’s no backrest cushioning or a lumbar pillow in the traditional sense, but the results speak for themselves. This chair is incredibly comfortable to sit on and offers a formidable range of adjustment options, including the manufacturer’s popular Harmonic Tilt, to help maximize support for your back.

Despite the chair’s slight profile, its seat pad is still wide and spacious and has a generous level of cushioning and a contoured shape that cuts down on fatigue. Although predominantly constructed using plastic, materials are uniformly top-notch. Parts are cleanly produced and feel seriously durable to the touch. Add on a 12 year manufacturer warranty, and you’ve got a chair that’s going to be able to endure years of daily use. The unique design also lends this chair a very striking overall appearance which is only further enhanced by the wide range of bright color options to choose from. 

In fact, the only area where the Herman Miller Sayl Gaming Chair falls short is in its lack of any real head or neck support. There is no headrest present on this model at all, which is an understandable limitation given the clear intention to keep the size down but will be a deal breaker for those who need one.

The backrest of the Herman Miller Sayl Gaming Chair.

(Image credit: Future)

Price and availability

  • $1,020 / £755
  • Available from Herman Miller
  • 12 year warranty

The Herman Miller Sayl Gaming Chair is available directly from Herman Miller in the US and UK where it costs $1,020 / £755. It’s not widely available in Australia yet, though. There are a range of color options to choose from, including bright Neon Green, clean Studio White, plain Black, Red, purple Interstellar, and, my personal favorite, the electric blue Ocean Deep.

Shoppers in the US can also choose a Slate Grey seat color, rather than the standard Black, at no extra cost. This is in addition to a ‘High Height Range’ height adjustment option, which takes the price up to $1,075 and allows you to adjust the seat height a few extra inches. Neither of these customizations are available in the UK right now.

Purchases include a 12 year manufacturer warranty, which is significantly better than the warranties offered by most competitors. Both the Razer Fujin Pro and Secretlab Titan Evo, to name two examples, are covered by shorter 5 year warranty periods.

Specs

Design and aesthetics

The Herman Miller Sayl Gaming Chair impresses when it comes to design and aesthetics. It’s effectively a recolored version of the existing Herman Miller Sayl, which is sold as an office chair, but that works to its advantage. The more abstract form factor is a real breath of fresh air in a market that is dominated by more generic designs inspired by racing seats. Its mesh-like backrest is eye-catching, highly breathable, and comfortably soft, though still rigid enough to provide plenty of support where it counts.

The majority of the chair is constructed from a sleek black plastic with a slightly textured finish. There are still some brightly colored elements depending on your choice of colorway, including the backrest and the adjustment controls underneath the seat, making them easy to identify and adding a very pleasing level of contrast to the overall look. 

The seat cushion is a slightly curved shape, keeping you centered while you sit. Its cover is slightly rough compared to the usual synthetic leather or soft fabric found on other gaming chairs, but this creates a good amount of friction and stops you from sliding around. 

The chair’s base is constructed from plastic, with five casters that work well on both hard surfaces and carpets. Like the rest of the chair, these casters are very high quality and can glide across floors smoothly and with little noise.

The seat and backrest of the Herman Miller Sayl Gaming Chair.

(Image credit: Future)

Comfort and adjustability

The Herman Miller Sayl Gaming Chair offers plenty of adjustability. Its backrest features a Harmonic Tilt mechanism that causes it to automatically recline as you lean back. The level of force required to cause the chair to tilt can be increased or decreased by turning the tilt tension knob, which is found on the right hand side underneath the seat. It sits alongside a lever which can raise or lower the seat height.

On the other side of the chair’s underside, you will find a mechanism that adjusts the limit of the recline. This can be set at three levels, ranging from an upright to partially and fully reclined position. There is also a forward tilt lever, which allows the backrest to move further forward as you lean in.

You can adjust the overall seat depth too, moving it either closer or further away from the backrest. This allows you to adjust the amount of space between the back of your knees and the edge of the seat which is ideal for ensuring a healthy sitting position.

The adjustment lever of the Herman Miller Sayl Gaming Chair.

(Image credit: Future)

The armrests can be adjusted either up or down, or pivoted a few degrees if you’d prefer to use them at an angle. Their width or depth can also be easily tweaked by simply pushing the top of each armrest and sliding it in your desired direction.

The manufacturer's online adjustment guide provides a detailed explanation of each of these functions, in addition to some helpful tips on how to correctly use them. With everything fully adjusted, the Herman Miller Sayl Gaming Chair offers a seriously impressive level of comfort. The backrest provides absolutely perfect support and feels extremely natural as it shifts in conjunction with your body. That said, I often sit leaning slightly forward. Those who prefer to lean back would likely be better served by a model with a headrest, like the Herman Miller x Logitech Vantum, for that added support.

The armrests of the Herman Miller Sayl Gaming Chair.

(Image credit: Future)

Assembly

The Herman Miller Sayl Gaming Chair comes fully assembled in a large cardboard box. Setting it up is as simple as cutting open the box, wheeling out the chair, and removing a couple small product tags. The overall process is quick, easy, and absolutely perfect for those who are not familiar with assembling gaming chairs. A QR code that links to a brief online manual is included in the box should you require it.

The cardboard box of the Herman Miller Sayl Gaming Chair.

(Image credit: Future)

Should I buy the Herman Miller Sayl Gaming Chair?

Buy it if...

You want a high-quality, compact chair
The Herman Miller Sayl Gaming Chair is small, but still offers a fantastic level of comfort. It’s well worth considering if you want a premium gaming chair but don’t have the space for any of the larger alternatives.

You love the look
There’s nothing else that looks quite like the Herman Miller Sayl Gaming Chair on the market right now. This makes it ideal for those who want a break from more traditional racing seat style designs or just love its brightly colored appearance.

Don't buy it if...

You want head support
The Herman Miller Sayl Gaming Chair doesn’t feature a headrest. This keeps it small, but those who need dedicated neck or head support should look at other options.

Also consider...

If you’re not sold on the Herman Miller Sayl Gaming Chair, then these two alternatives are worth considering.

Herman Miller x Logitech Vantum
The Herman Miller X Logitech Vantum is the way to go if you want the same excellent build quality, warranty, and design as the Herman Miller Sayl Gaming Chair but with the addition of a dedicated headrest. 

For more information, check out our full Herman Miller x Logitech Vantum review

Razer Fujin Pro
The Razer Fujin Pro is a good alternative if you’re looking for other chairs that prioritize comfort. Assembly is slightly more complex, though it offers similarly top performance while you play.

For more information, check out our full Razer Fujin Pro review

The back of the Herman Miller Sayl Gaming Chair.

(Image credit: Future)

How I tested the Herman Miller Sayl Gaming Chair

  • Tested for over three weeks
  • Used for office work and gaming
  • Compared to other gaming chairs

I tested the Herman Miller Sayl Gaming Chair for over three weeks at our London office. I used it as my primary chair as I completed productivity tasks and played a selection of games. This included a range of titles on Amazon Luna, such as River City Girls, XDefiant, Fortnite, and more, in addition to mobile phone games including Zenless Zone Zero and Dicey Dungeons.

Read more about how we test

First reviewed August 2024.

Herman Miller x Logitech Vantum review: An ergonomic chair with the flair of a sports car
3:00 pm | August 3, 2024
Author: admin | Category: Computers Gadgets Gaming Gaming Accessories | Tags: , , | Comments: Off

Two-minute review

Clear as day, the Herman Miller x Logitech Vantum is all about ergonomics. As soon as you pull it out of the box you can feel your spine straightening out. And while it has heaps of features backing it up (pun intended), I can't help but feel like there's something off for the $895 / £895 price tag. 

The Vantum is more akin to an office chair than a racer-style gaming chair, many of which have passed beneath my buttocks. Instead of rolling with the trend, Logitech and Herman Miller have geared the Vantum toward the grown-up, corporate gamer with its rounded corners and sleek exoskeleton that comes in a variety of hilariously named colors, such as ‘Abyss Aqua’ and plain old ‘Obsidian Black.’ Just as the Embody before it - the pair's previous brainchild - it's made for gamers who want to taste superior comfort, while rocking a suave design that won't have people making jokes about your K:D ratio in the office. But just like the Embody, it's gonna cost ya.

It'll set you back $895 / £895. That's still $1,000 less than the Embody in the US, but nearly double the price of our favorite gaming chair, the Secretlab Titan EVO 2022. You expect to pay a premium for a quality-built gaming chair with little setup, though, and the Vantum is certainly that.

Herman Miller x Logitech Vantum

(Image credit: Future)

It took five minutes to put together, against the usual 20-50 minutes, thanks to the no-screw parts slotting together like humongous legos. There's zero rattle on the 3D armrests, easy and wide adjustability on the lumbar support and backrest, a mesh back for breathability, and a headrest that moves along with you. The Vantum screams quality and is damn comfortable. And while the seat is wide enough to sit cross-legged and ignore ergonomic advice like a gremlin, I've come to hate the armrests thanks to my tendency to do so.

The armrests forward/back, and in/out adjustability has no lock. While that means no messing with mechanisms to set them in place, leaning on them to stand up when they're pulled back can be dangerous. A couple of times I've forgotten as they whip forward suddenly, smashing my fingers into the desk. Omitting the armrest locks has to be an attempt to keep the price down, but at what cost?

Against its main mesh-back competitor, the $1,049 Razer Fujin Pro, they're on-par in terms of comfort and ease of assembly. While the Vantum is around $150/£100 cheaper and comes with a 12-year warranty against the Fujin's five years, you're also missing out on the all-important lockable armrests. That said, the Fujin doesn't have all those fancy color options.

In a straight toss-up between spending a little more on safety, airflow and a little more adjustability, or going brightly coloured with a better warranty, I'd rather put my fingers first and hope the Fujin Pro doesn't break after five years. That said, the Vantum is a bloody gorgeous design for less, and just as comfortable.

Price and availability

  • List price: $895 / £895
  • Available at the Herman Miller online store
  • Available in the US and UK

Available in the US and the UK from the Herman Miller online store, the Vantum is a little more difficult to get hold of in, say, Australia. Meaning those living down under will likely pay a premium for it. It makes it harder to recommend for Aussies, since it's already a pricey bit of kit. 

The thing to note is that you can get most of the chairs on our best gaming chairs roundup for less, which makes it hard to recommend if you're on a budget. The Vantum is a sure contender for best premium chair against its sister, the Herman Miller x Logitech Embody, especially at $1,000 cheaper, but it still feels like it's missing something for the price. 

Specs

Design and aesthetics

  • Gorgeous exoskeleton
  • Great color options
  • Recycled fabric

Herman Miller x Logitech Vantum

(Image credit: Future)

The Vantum sports lovely flowing lines and curvature on the exoskeleton, that's more akin to the shell of a modern sports car than the kind of racer bucket seat you expect to see from gaming chairs today. It's giving real Lotus Elise vibes, and the mesh back and textured seat mean that, while it does look like an office chair, it all adds to that almost carbon-fiber bonnet race car look. 

I love that the materials are made from 100% post-consumer recycled fabric, but as someone who sits with their legs tucked under them, I must say the choice of texture is a little rough. It means I don't ever feel like I'm sliding forward off the chair, though. So there's that.

I appreciate that there are both subtle pastel and gorgeous color-pop options depending on your preference for standing out. And the fact that the mechanisms are marked with color accents for easy recognition is also great.

Comfort and adjustability

  • Fantastic adjustability
  • Incredible comfort
  • Armrests lack lock and rotation

Herman Miller x Logitech Vantum

(Image credit: Future)

From a sliding seat depth, to lumbar support, and even adjustable height and rotation on the headrest, the Vantum comes with some fantastic ergonomic mechanisms. Most are easy to use, though there's something to be desired when it comes to the armrests.

While they don't rattle, and are chamfered to give you a better angle when playing with a controller, there are cheaper chairs out there with 4D armrests that actually lock. For a premium chair, I would expect Herman Miller and Logitech to have added rotation and simple safety elements to the armrest. That doesn't necessarily overshadow the sheer comfort the rest of the chair brings, especially if you're broad enough already that you leave the arms at their widest position, but smaller people and those who move around a lot leaning on the arms will have a problem.

It's a little sad that the seat doesn't quite go down as low as I would like with a minimum height of 18 inches. Using it with the short office desks, it almost voids the great spinal ergonomics altogether as I'm constantly leaning forward to type. 

That said, the addition of numeric tilt and tension limiters is fantastic. It means I can set it to my preferred tension and tilt angle without the usual trial and error. You do have to lean quite far forward to see the numbers and use the mechanisms, but they're otherwise a joy to use.

Assembly

  • Very minimal assembly
  • Easy instructions

Herman Miller x Logitech Vantum

(Image credit: Future)

Quite possibly one of the easiest to assemble chairs aside from the Embody's zero setup, there are only three images illustrating the process and they fit on a single box flap. I spent all of five minutes putting the Vantum together, which against the usual 30-45 minutes of reading instructions and screwing bits together, is an absolute breath of fresh air.

It's pretty intuitive too, but if you're not someone who puts gaming chairs together on a daily basis, there's a handy QR code that lets you download an instruction PDF that is 90% images. It's coherent and there's very little reading involved.

Should I buy the Herman Miller x Logitech Vantum?

Herman Miller x Logitech Vantum

(Image credit: Future)

Buy it if...

You have very little time to spare
You're going to be up and running with the Vantum in literal moments with super easy assembly. It's a chair that's made for the time-poor business gamer.

You're serious about ergonomics
With good adjustability and supreme comfort, this chair is easily one of the most ergonomic gaming chairs out there.

Don't buy it if...

You lean on the armrests getting up
The fact that the armrests don't lock means there's a danger in trapping your fingers as they slide toward the desk.

You're trying to save money
While not as expensive as the Herman Miller x Logitech Embody, it's still far more expensive than your average gaming chair, including most on our best gaming chair list.

Also consider...

There are a couple of chairs to consider in the same class as the Herman Miller x Logitech Vantum. Refer to the quick specs sheet below for more details on our top recommendations.

Razer Fujin Pro
With greater airflow and adjustability, the Razer Fujin Pro is a great alternative. It costs a little more especially for those in the UK where it's a lot harder to source, but for a little extra cash could save your fingers a bruising.

For more information, check out our full Razer Fujin Pro review

X-Chair X2 K-Sport Management
Minus the headrest and larger seat addons, the X-Chair X2 K-Sport Management comes in cheaper than the Vantum with ever better adjustability on the lumbar and armrests. It doesn't come with all the flashy colour options, but you get even longer on the warranty.

For more information, check out our full X-Chair X2 K-Sport Management review

How I tested the Herman Miller x Logitech Vantum

  • Spent a week sitting in the chair on a daily basis
  • Yanking the mechanisms back and forth

It takes a little while to get a feel for a gaming chair, so I made sure to give the Vantum a good run, sitting in it for the best part of a full work week. I made sure to switch around between standard, cheap office chairs and the other premium chairs I've referenced that are sitting around the office, to get a good feel for how it measures up against the competition.

To the annoyance of other office-goers also I made sure to rigorously test the mechanisms, pushing them back and forth and up and down to check their ease of access, use and noisiness.

Read more about how we test

First reviewed July 2024.

Logitech G920 review: a great entry-level Xbox racing wheel, with one serious drawback
6:00 pm | July 28, 2024
Author: admin | Category: Computers Gadgets Gaming Gaming Accessories | Tags: , , | Comments: Off

Logitech G920: One-minute review

While far from the newest racing wheel on the market, the Logitech G920 is still a popular pick and, having spent much time with it over the last couple of weeks, it’s easy to see why. Compatible with current and last-generation Xbox consoles (as well as PC), the Logitech G920 is superbly simple to set up thanks to its plug-and-play design. Just hook it up to the mains and your console or PC via USB connection and you’re ready to go.

The G920 also boasts exceptional build quality, with firm plastic forming the wheel base, pedal floor and the center of the wheel itself where you’ll find the layout of Xbox buttons. The trio of throttle, brake and clutch pedals are crafted from brushed stainless steel, and the leather wrapping around the wheel provides sturdy and comfortable grip.

It holds up performance-wise too, thanks to 900-degree rotation that makes it an excellent choice for the very best racing sims and sim-lite titles like F1 24, Forza Motorsport and EA Sports WRC. Force feedback from the wheel is pretty strong by default, though this can be adjusted based on your preferences on the PC G Hub software or in games that support force feedback settings.

The only real sticking point - almost literally - is the incredibly stiff brake pedal which certainly isn’t suited for beginners or casual racing enjoyers. It’s the one part of the Logitech G920’s package that you may consider to be a deal breaker. While you can make things a little easier for yourself here by adjusting the pedal’s sensitivity in the G Hub app, those of you on Xbox exclusively will need to rely on settings from game to game.

Logitech G920

(Image credit: Future)

Logitech G920: Price and availability

  • $299.99 / £349.99 / AU$549.95
  • Pedals are included with purchase
  • Available at Amazon and Logitech’s website

The Logitech G920 will run you $299.99 / £349.99 / AU$549.95 at its retail price. However, given the wheel’s age, we do see it subject to some pretty great discounts (we’ve seen it drop below $200 in the US, for example), especially during big sales periods throughout the year. The wheel is purchasable and readily available at Amazon and Logitech’s own store page.

Otherwise, its retail price is about what to expect for a mid-range, but entry-level-friendly racing wheel. The Thrustmaster T248, for example, comes in at $300 / £300 and offers  largely similar features. The G920 also costs considerably less than some premium choices, including the Thrustmaster T-GT 2 which comes in at an eye-watering $799 / £699. Though options like this are typically targeted at racing sim enthusiasts.

Logitech G920: Specs

Logitech G920: Design and features

Logitech products are typically known for high build quality and that’s no different with the G920 racing wheel. Almost every aspect of the wheel’s design has been built to meet a high standard, from its sturdy non-hollow plastic to the brushed stainless steel pedals.In terms of build you’re absolutely getting your money’s worth, and nothing here ever felt wonky or loose. A solidly-built product all around.

The wheel itself is the highlight here. Hand-stitched leather helps to provide a sturdy and comfortable grip during even the most technically demanding circuits. The center of the wheel has your standard Xbox controller layout, sans the analog sticks. The d-pad, share button and left bumper are over to the left, with the four face buttons, menu button and right bumper on the opposite side. 

Logitech G920

(Image credit: Future)

The Logitech logo sits firmly in the middle, with the Xbox Home button just below. Positioned just behind the wheel are two large metal paddles that can be assigned as you like on a per-game basis. Personally, I usually preferred to assign gear shifts to these in the absence of a dedicated gear shifter with my setup.

I’ll talk more about the pedals soon, but they are solid in terms of build quality. The brushed stainless steel lends a classy, professional feel. Meanwhile, the pedals’ plastic base is grippy and rarely alters position on carpeted surfaces without some degree of force applied. But again, more on this later.

One thing worth noting is that you’ll have a bit of cable management to handle with the Logitech G920. The wheel itself needs plugging into the mains, so be sure you have a nearby plug socket free during play. You’ll also need to wire up the pedals and wheel base together and - finally - hook the wheel up to your console or PC. It ends up being quite a few wires, and while the wheel base itself has a built-in cable tidy, it’s something to be aware of if you already don’t have great cable management for your setup.

Logitech G920: Performance

Across all compatible racing games I tested, including F1 24, Forza Motorsport, Forza Horizon 5, and EA Sports WRC, the Logitech G920 felt perfectly responsive across a range of different racing styles. The wheel’s 900-degree rotation felt more than plenty for racers with varying depths of simulation, and I never found myself having to adjust its sensitivity in-game or via the G Hub software.

I ended up being a big fan of its force feedback, too. It definitely took a bit of getting used to, as it felt relatively aggressive when compared to newer wheels on the market. But I found this to be a great fit for rally, in particular, where various types of terrain were rendered accurately and felt appropriately meaty in response.

There were also no issues to mention with the throttle pedal, which was brilliantly responsive and provided just enough resistance by default to let you manage speed without your foot slipping or losing position. Unfortunately, the brake pedal is a different story.

By default, the brake pedal is simply uncomfortably stiff, to the point where you really need to press your foot in to brake even remotely effectively. Monza’s iconic 90-degree first corner made this issue very apparent, where I felt I needed to apply the brakes far earlier than I would on a controller simply because I couldn’t get the force I needed by default. 

I ended up having to set the brake pedal’s sensitivity to maximum in the G Hub app for braking to become effective on PC. And on Xbox Series X, I was left to the whims of individual game settings in order to adjust sensitivity. It does feel like the brake pedal is intended for more serious sim racing titles like iRacing and Assetto Corsa. It’ll likely also help to have a racing seat with a frame to slide the pedal base into at an angle, making it easier to apply pressure on the brakes. 

Logitech G920

(Image credit: Future)

Should I buy the Logitech G920?

Buy it if...

You’re after a quality entry-level racing wheel
Despite being a few years old, the G920 is still a top contender in its price bracket thanks to superb build quality, excellent force feedback and pin-sharp responsiveness.

You want immersion above all from your favorite racing games
The Logitech G920’s force feedback is incredibly immersive and feels great across a variety of racing disciplines including the high-speed of Formula 1 and the demanding, bumpy terrains of rally.

Don't buy it if...

You don’t like the sound of that brake pedal
This will be the main sticking point for most potential buyers; the stiff brake pedal is something you’ll have to get used to or adjust with in-game settings or via the G Hub app.

Also consider...

If you’d like to learn more about a couple of other racing wheel choices before committing to the Logitech G920, check below for more top recommendations. 

Turtle Beach VelocityOne
This racing wheel certainly won’t be for everyone with its higher price tag, but additional features like its bespoke race management display, robust button layout and high-quality build make it a solid choice for racing sim fanatics.

For more information, check out our full Turtle Beach VelocityOne review

Thrustmaster T248
If you need a wheel for PS5 or PS4 as well as PC, the Thrustmaster T248 should be your first port of call. While getting on in years like the G920, it offers exceptional value and the on-wheel electronic display is a really nice touch.

For more information, check out our full Thrustmaster T248 review

How I tested the Logitech G920

  • Tested for two weeks
  • Tested across Xbox and PC
  • A variety of racing games played

I used the Logitech G920 over the course of a couple of weeks across both Xbox Series X and PC. Being a huge racing game fan, I aimed to test out as many disciplines as possible with the wheel across games like F1 24, EA Sports WRC, Forza Motorsport, Forza Horizon 5 and Euro Truck Simulator 2.

I spent time with each game customizing control and sensitivity settings with the G920, either in-game or with the G Hub companion software. There was an element of finding a sweet spot with each game, though I did find that I had to maximize the brake pedal’s sensitivity across all games tested.

Read more about how we test

First reviewed July 2024.

Final VR2000 review: capable FPS gaming earbuds
3:00 pm |
Author: admin | Category: Computers Gadgets Gaming Gaming Accessories | Tags: , , | Comments: Off

Final VR2000: Two-minute review

If all you’re after is a pair of gaming earbuds to use while playing online first-person shooter (FPS) titles like Counter-Strike 2 or Call of Duty: Modern Warfare 3, then don’t hesitate to buy the Final VR2000. The boutique Japanese audio brand has crafted a formidable pair of gaming headphones, which offer the same excellent design and features of the Final VR3000 but with an audio profile that has been specifically tuned for competitive play.

Designed for enhanced binaural audio, they offer an impressively immersive and detailed soundstage that gives every vital audio cue a clear sense of direction. Everything from distant gunfire to nearby footsteps comes through in vivid detail, giving you a clear edge over your opponents. They’re also lightweight, as comfortable to wear as many of the best gaming earbuds, fully compatible with PC in addition to every major console plus mobile, and come with five pairs of ear tips and removable ear hooks to help ensure the perfect fit.

That said, the middling microphone of the Final VR3000 is still very much present here. Your in-game comms will be perfectly serviceable, but using them in conjunction with a standalone microphone is definitely the way to go for frequent chatters. There’s also the matter of the audio tuning, which lacks bass and leads to a slightly tinny overall sound. This is ideal for hectic shooters, where you don’t want to become overwhelmed by loud gunfire and explosion effects, but makes them a poor fit for more cinematic single-player titles and music.

The Final VR2000 earbuds next to the corner of a PS5 DualSense Wireless Controller.

(Image credit: Future)

Final VR2000: Price and availability

  • $69.99 / £59.99 / around AU$115 
  • Available via Amazon
  •  Cheaper than the Final VR3000

The Final VR2000 earbuds come in at $69.99 / £59.99 / around AU$115 and are readily available at Amazon in the US and UK. This is $10 / £10 / around AU$5 less than the Final VR3000. While those headphones are definitely a better fit for a more general audience, this small saving makes the Final VR2000 the clear choice if you intend to play lots of FPS games. They are also cheaper than many of the best wired gaming headsets, making them a strong alternative if you want to keep costs down.

Final VR2000: Specs

Final VR2000: Design and features

The most visible difference between the Final VR2000 and the Final VR3000 is that this pair comes in a dark green color rather than plain black. This is a clear nod to their intended audience, embracing the military aesthetic in an understated and classy way. Everything else about the earbuds is practically identical, meaning that they still have an angular shape which fits very well in the ear. 

They are likewise worn with the cable pointed upwards and hooked around the top of each for additional support, like a pair of in-ear-monitor (IEM) headphones. Both of these factors keep them feeling secure and comfortable, even over lengthy sessions which is definitely a plus on the occasion that a particularly grueling match drags on into overtime.

Materials feel high-quality across the board and the same five alternate ear tips are also included with the Final VR2000 too, on top of a small carrying pouch and removable ear hooks. The ear tips are color-coded and, again, provide a brilliant fit once you work out the correct size for you. Because of this, you likely won’t need to use the included ear hooks at all, which is a good thing as they remain as fragile and fiddly to install as ever.

The only other notable element of the Final VR2000 are the audio controls present on the cable of the right earbud. They’re pleasantly clicky and offer a volume up, volume down, and pause button - though unfortunately these don’t work outside of mobile platforms.

A close up shot of the Final VR2000 earbuds.

(Image credit: Future)

Final VR2000: Performance

The Final VR2000 perform excellently in any of the best FPS games. They offer fantastic binaural sound, lending everything an impressive sense of direction. This is especially useful in competitive scenarios, where being able to identify the origin of a footstep or other audio cues can make a difference between a win or a loss. As wired earbuds, you also don’t need to worry about any possibility of latency or delay.

When it comes to their overall tuning, the bass has been noticeably decreased compared to the much heavier sound of the Final VR3000. Crystal clear mids mean that spoken dialogue comes through clearly but music still sounds flat and pretty lifeless on the whole. This is not necessarily a bad thing though, as these headphones are clearly not intended for single-player cinematic titles or more general music listening. In a hectic FPS, the lack of bass prevents loud effects like gunfire or explosions from becoming too overwhelming and makes it much easier to focus on more important sounds like the aforementioned footsteps or communications from your teammates.

The biggest disappointment here is the in-line microphone, which is far from one of the best microphones and decidedly average at best. It sounds quite muffled and does a very poor job of blocking out background noise, which might be a dealbreaker if you intend to use these headphones as your primary mode of communication in a loud environment. It’s a real shame, especially given the fact that many cheaper earbuds aimed towards FPS gamers offer substantially better microphones. 

Should I buy the Final VR2000?

A close up shot of the Final VR2000 earbuds.

(Image credit: Future)

Buy it if...

You play lots of online FPS games
If you’re after a pair of earbuds to use in competitive FPS games, then you will struggle to find options that are better suited to that purpose than the Final VR2000.

You value a comfortable design
These are some seriously comfortable earbuds and come packed with everything that you need to find the perfect fit. Pick them up if you’re after a pair that can be worn for hours at a time.

Don't buy it if...

You don’t own a separate mic
With a focus on FPS gaming like this, it’s a shame that the microphone of the Final VR2000 is so mediocre. Look at other options if you don’t already own a separate mic.

Also consider...

Still not keen on the Final VR2000? Here are two other wired options to consider.

Final VR3000
This slightly more expensive pair also from Final are much better suited to general gaming. They offer the same immersive sound, but with much richer bass that’s perfect for single-player adventures.

For more information, check out our full Final VR3000 review

SteelSeries Tusq
The SteelSeries Tusq underwhelm when it comes to overall build quality, but come in much cheaper than the Final VR2000 and offer a far better mic to boot.

For more information, check out our full SteelSeries Tusq review.

A close up shot of the Final VR2000 earbuds on a wooden surface.

(Image credit: Future)

How I tested the Final VR2000

  • Used for over two weeks
  • Tested with PC, PS5, and Xbox Series S 
  • Compared to other gaming earbuds 

I tested the Final VR2000 for just over two weeks. During that time I played a wide range of FPS games, including Counter-Strike 2, Team Fortress 2, Call of Duty: Modern Warfare 3, Call of Duty: Advanced Warfare, and Call of Duty: Vanguard. I predominantly played using a PC and PlayStation 5, though I also tested the headphones with an Xbox Series S over a few rounds of Fortnite. 

I endeavored to try the headphones with a range of other genres, too, in order to assess their performance. This involved continuing my ongoing playthrough of Rise of the Ronin, in addition to some hours in The Last of Us Part 2 Remastered and The Sims 4.

Throughout my time with the earbuds, I compared my experience to my hands-on testing of other models including the Final VR3000, Final VR500, Turtle Beach Battle Buds, SteelSeries Tusq, and more, finding them to be a capable FPS-oriented alternative.

Read more about how we test

First reviewed July 2024

Seagate Game Drive for PS5 review: no-nonsense storage expansion
2:30 pm | July 27, 2024
Author: admin | Category: Computers Gadgets Gaming Gaming Accessories | Comments: Off

Seagate Game Drive for PS5: One-minute review

The Seagate Game Drive for PS5 is a product that exists to cater to a very specific need. It’s undeniably one of the best PS5 external hard drives right now, but is inherently quite limited compared to some of the best SSDs for PS5. 

The most important thing to know is that this drive cannot be used to directly play PlayStation 5 games. It can store them, though the data will need to be copied back to your internal storage before you’re able to jump in. This can take some time depending on the size of the game but, crucially, will be much speedier than a full download for the majority of people. The best way to use an external hard drive is therefore as an alternative to deleting your games, especially if it’s something that you’re likely to return to at a later date.

To give you a real-world example, I recently completed the brilliant Alan Wake 2. It takes up a whopping 90.23GB on my internal storage, which is space that I would much rather have available for other things. That said, I know that a new downloadable content (DLC) expansion is on the way - and would rather not spend hours waiting to download the entire game again when it drops. The best course of action here is to move the game to the external hard drive, freeing up space and meaning that I can still quickly copy it back to play in future.

Given that the Seagate Game Drive for PS5 comes in a hefty 2TB or 5TB capacity, you won’t need to worry about it filling up with your unused games any time soon. Although you undeniably pay a premium for the PlayStation branding here, it’s also cheaper than many PS5-compatible internal SSD drives in those capacities - making it a good lower-cost alternative. Then there's the fact that it’s incredibly quick to set up: you simply plug it into your PS5 via the included Micro USB cable, follow some on-screen prompts, and you’re ready to go in a matter of seconds.

The quality of the design of the Seagate Game Drive for PS5 also shouldn’t be understated. It's sleek, modern, and looks great sitting next to your console thanks to its white exterior and blue LED lighting. If you’re after an external hard drive for your PS5, or even PS4, then you simply can’t go wrong with this.

A close up shot of the LED lighting on the Seagate Game Drive for PS5.

(Image credit: Future)

Seagate Game Drive for PS5: Price and availability

  • 2TB costs $79.99 / £84.48 / AU$169.95
  • 5TB costs $149.99 / £139.99 / AU$279.95 
  • Available at Amazon and other retailers 

The Seagate Game Drive for PS5 is available in two capacities: 2TB and 5TB. The 2TB model costs $79.99 / £84.48 / AU$169.95, while the 5TB one is $149.99 / £139.99 / AU$279.95. Given its sheer size, the 5TB model is definitely the best value option as it should provide more than enough space for most game libraries.

The drive is available at Amazon and a wide range of other retailers including Best Buy, Walmart, and Gamestop in the US as well as Argos and Game in the UK. If a store sells PS5 games or accessories, it’s likely to also stock this drive making it very easy to get your hands on.

Seagate Game Drive for PS5: Specs

Seagate Game Drive for PS5: Design and features

As far as external hard drives go, the Seagate Game Drive for PS5 has a very attractive overall design. Its rectangular form factor is relatively compact and should be easy to unobtrusively place in your existing setup. The top half of the drive is a plain white, matching the look of the PS5, while its base is black. A small PlayStation logo is present in the very top left-hand corner of its front with a corresponding Seagate logo in the bottom right. The only other thing of note is a blue LED strip, which gently illuminates the surface below the drive. 

It’s compatible with PS5, PS4, and PC right out of the box with an included Micro USB cable which plugs into a smaller connector on the rear of the drive. The connector is next to a small LED indicator, which lights up when the drive is receiving power. While not stated by the manufacturer, it is also compatible with Xbox consoles, though will need to be reformatted if you intend to switch systems.

Although the drive cannot play PS5 games, it can be used to play PS4 titles either via backwards compatibility or on a PS4 console. This works well, though there is a noticeable difference in performance for those with a PS5. Expect longer load times compared to when you’re playing a PS4 game on the internal PS5 storage.

A close up shot of the cable on the Seagate Game Drive for PS5.

(Image credit: Future)

Seagate Game Drive for PS5: Performance

The performance of the Seagate Game Drive for PS5 is pretty much exactly what you would expect from your average external gaming hard drive. It’s slower than much pricier external SSD options, but is fast enough to copy large games in respectable times. The aforementioned 90.23GB installation of Alan Wake 2, for example, took 16 minutes and 46 seconds to copy over to the drive in its entirety. A large PS4 game, like the 67.21GB Dishonored 2, took 12 minutes and 28 seconds.

Going down a notch, the PS4 version of Hatsune Miku: Project Diva Future Tone, which comes to 38.30GB with plenty of add-ons, transferred in 7 minutes and 20 seconds. The recently released Alone in the Dark remake, which is 30.67GB, took 5 minutes and 22 seconds. Kunitsu-Gami: Path of the Goddess comes in 28.28GB and took just 3 minutes 49 seconds. Stray, which is only 7.31GB, was copied in 1 minute and 13 seconds. Finally, the tiny 1.63GB of Angry Birds Star Wars took just 22 seconds to transfer.

Though those who want to move around very large titles multiple times a week might be better off with something a little speedier such as the Crucial X6, all of these times were still significantly faster than a download on my home internet.

An overhead view of the Seagate Game Drive for PS5.

(Image credit: Future)

Should I buy the Seagate Game Drive for PS5?

Buy it if...

You want an easy storage upgrade
Setting up the Seagate Game Drive for PS5 is as easy as plugging it into your PS5 with the included cable and following some quick on-screen instructions. It’s the way to go if you want to avoid a more complex internal SSD installation.

You value aesthetics
There are cheaper external hard drives out there, but the value of the Seagate Game Drive for PS5’s looks is worth bearing in mind. This is the best choice if you’re after a hard drive that will match your console aesthetically.

Don't buy it if...

You want a drive to play PS5 games
No external hard drives can be used to play PS5 games directly. While they are compatible with PS4 titles, they can only be used to store the latest releases between uses.

Also consider...

If you’re not keen on the Seagate Game Drive for PS5 then you should consider these two strong alternatives.

Toshiba Canvio Flex  
If you want an affordable 1TB option, then consider the Toshiba Canvio Flex. It offers a Type-C cable which can plug directly into the front port of your PS5 and comes with a 3-year warranty. 

For more information, check out our full Toshiba Canvio Flex review

WD My Passport Ultra
The WD My Passport Ultra is available in a wide range of configurations and colorways. It uses a Type-C connector rather than Micro USB, which makes it worthwhile for those who prefer the more modern cable standard.

For more information, check out our full WD My Passport Ultra review.

A close up shot of the top right corner of the Seagate Game Drive for PS5.

(Image credit: Future)

How I tested the Seagate Game Drive for PS5

  • Used for two weeks 
  • Tested with a PS5 
  • Compared against other storage devices

I tested the Seagate Game Drive for PS5 for two weeks during which time I used it as my primary PS5 external storage device. I spent a considerable number of hours assessing its performance in real-world scenarios by copying a wide range of PS5 and PS4 titles to and from it and timing the results. 

I compared the results against other storage options, including external SSD drives like the WD Black P40. I also used the external hard drive to play a number of PS4 titles, including Dishonored 2 and Ghost Trick: Phantom Detective and compared my experience to playing those same games on the console's internal storage.   

Read more about how we test

First reviewed July 2024.

Asus ROG Carnyx review: one hefty gaming mic
7:16 pm | July 24, 2024
Author: admin | Category: Computers Gadgets Gaming Gaming Accessories | Tags: , | Comments: Off

Asus ROG Carnyx: One-minute review

The most notable thing about the Asus ROG Carnyx is that this gaming microphone is absolutely huge. It measures about 10.2 inches / 26 cm tall when used in conjunction with its included stand. Its base is roughly 4.7 inches / 12 cm across at its widest point too, which means that this model is likely going to be a little too large for many setups. I even struggled to position it on my roomy desk, opting to place it off to the side rather than in front of me so as to not block part of my monitor with its tall height.

That said, it’s going to be a very compelling option if you have the space. Its build feels impressively high-quality, with plenty of durable metal elements, and its design is sleek and incorporates eye-catching RGB elements that would be perfect for content creators. The microphone also features a small number of on board controls that allow you to tweak overall volume, enable a high-pass filter, and mute it easily, all of which are responsive and very intuitive.

On top of all this it offers superb sound, on par with many of the best microphones for streaming, which will make it an ideal choice for those looking to upgrade their streaming setup or just after an easy-to-use plug-and-play option for more general online gaming.

A close up shot of the Asus ROG Carnyx.

(Image credit: Future)

Asus ROG Carnyx: Price and availability

  • $179.99 / £169.99 / around AU$299
  • Available at Amazon 

The Asus ROG Carnyx costs $179.99 / £169.99 / around AU$299 and is available from both Amazon and Asus in the US and UK. This price puts it right at the top of the scale when it comes to USB microphones, as it’s significantly more expensive than favorites like the Blue Yeti or Audio-Technica AT2020USB-X. 

The price is most comparable to the likes of the SteelSeries Alias and, much like that model, you’re undeniably paying a premium for the overall design and ROG name. Whether this is worth it for you will depend on your personal aesthetic preferences and any potential loyalty to the brand.

Asus ROG Carnyx: Specs

Asus ROG Carnyx: Design and features

Every aspect of the Asus ROG Carnyx’s design is large and heavy but feels impressively durable as a result. Its base is constructed from a robust metal which is fashioned into wide angular shapes that lend it a very modern appearance. The bottom of the base, which has a rubberized grippy underside, is etched with some subtle ‘Republic of Gamers’ branding in addition to a grill-like pattern that gives it a great texture. The grill displays a shiny ROG logo too, which is a classy touch.

The base connects the capsule using a traditional shock mount, suspending it with elasticated fabric to reduce low-frequency noise caused by any movement of your surface. A large adjustment knob allows you to change the angle of the mount by roughly 60 degrees, though I found this to be incredibly difficult to loosen out of the box.

A close up shot of the top of the Asus ROG Carnyx.

(Image credit: Future)

The capsule itself is predominantly constructed from a smooth plastic and is a cylindrical shape. There’s a small ROG logo embossed on it, right below a volume adjustment knob and three white LED indicators. These denote whether the high-pass filter (which helps to block out other low-frequency sounds) is active and whether the adjustment knob will affect your current recording audio level or the volume from the 3.5mm audio jack present on the capsule’s rear. The audio knob can be pressed down with a satisfying click to alternate between modes or disable the high-pass filter.

Above this is a wire mesh that glows with an impressive RGB effect. Your choice of color and some more general settings can be adjusted in the accompanying Armory Crate software. This software is mostly functional, but offers very few features that cannot be controlled directly on the microphone itself and has a disappointingly limited and dated design for a such recently released and pricey product.

On the top of the capsule you’ll find a touch-sensitive button that can be used to quickly mute the microphone - an intuitive, easy to reach location. Muting the microphone causes the RGB lighting to turn a bright red, which provides a helpful way to check whether your microphone is currently muted (though this can be disabled via the software if you prefer).

The software of the Asus ROG Carnyx.

(Image credit: Asus ROG)

Asus ROG Carnyx: Performance

The Asus ROG Carnyx connects to your PC with a braided 3m USB-C cable and can be used in a plug-and-play capacity without any software. This makes it incredibly easy to set up and it performs fantastically in this out-of-the-box configuration. It provides clear sound and does a remarkably good job of removing any background noise. After slightly tweaking the gain level using the adjustment knob and enabling the high-pass filter, it successfully managed to drown out the low hum of fans on a hot day, in addition to any passing cars and trains.

You can still squeeze comparable sound out of cheaper alternatives, like the Blue Yeti, though this will require some software and considerably more effort. As a simple, all-in-one solution, the Asus ROG Carnyx certainly delivers. 

The recording quality is comfortably high enough for content creation when the microphone is positioned a couple of inches in front of you, though the cardioid pickup pattern will make this model unsuitable for recording something with multiple speakers, for example a podcast. When you’re shopping in this price range you can easily find other models, like the JBL Quantum Stream Studio, which offer a wide selection of possible patterns that would be much better suited to this purpose.

On some particularly warm summer days I did notice that the top of the capsule inexplicably became quite hot to the touch. This is presumably due to a combination of the toasty weather and excess heat from the LED lighting and, while a little disconcerting, did not seem to affect performance in any tangible way.

A photo showing the size of the Asus ROG Carnyx relative to a wine bottle.

(Image credit: Future)

Should I buy the Asus ROG Carnyx?

Buy it if...

You value simplicity
The Asus ROG Carnyx is expensive, but it’s a capable all-in-one solution that’s easy to set up and use right out of the box.

You love the ROG brand
If you already have a PC gaming setup filled with Asus ROG accessories, the modern design and RGB lighting of the Asus ROG Carnyx will fit right in.

Don't buy it if...

You don’t have the space
The only real problem with the Asus ROG Carnyx is that it’s absolutely massive. Given that there are loads of much smaller models on the market, this is one to avoid if you don’t have a lot of desk space going spare.

Also consider...

Still not fully sold on the Asus ROG Carnyx? Here are two other strong gaming microphones to consider. 

JBL Quantum Stream Studio
The JBL Quantum Stream Studio comes in cheaper than the Asus ROG Carnyx but offers a far greater range of pickup patterns to choose from. The bidirectional and omnidirectional options make it much better suited for creating content with multiple speakers. 

For more information, check out our full JBL Quantum Stream Studio review

 SteelSeries Alias
The SteelSeries Alias comes in smaller than the Asus ROG Carnyx and boasts an even more attractive design and a very similar set of features for practically the same price.

For more information, check out our full SteelSeries Alias review

A photo showing the adjustment knob of the Asus ROG Carnyx.

(Image credit: Future)

How I tested the Asus ROG Carnyx

  • Used for over a month 
  • Tested with a gaming PC
  • Compared to other microphones

I used the Asus ROG Carnyx as the primary microphone for my gaming PC for over one month. During that time I engaged in plenty of multiplayer gaming, chatting with friends and teammates on platforms such as Discord. I also used the microphone for daily calls with colleagues during my working day. In order to assess the sound quality, I collected feedback from call participants and recorded myself in a wide variety of settings with different levels of background noise using Audacity.

During my time with the microphone, I made sure to fully test the Armory Crate software and endeavored to try every available feature. I also frequently compared the experience of using this model to my experience testing a wide range of other gaming microphones from across the price spectrum.

Read more about how we test

First reviewed July 2024.

Final VR3000 review: immersive earbuds that are great for gaming and VR
3:00 pm | July 7, 2024
Author: admin | Category: Computers Gadgets Gaming Gaming Accessories | Tags: , , | Comments: Off

Final VR3000: Two-minute review

The latest model of gaming earbuds from boutique Japanese audio brand Final, the Final VR3000 are designed to deliver some seriously immersive sound. Made with a focus on binaural recording, they are nothing short of a massive success. It's hard not to be blown away by the large and highly detailed soundstage that has been crammed into these tiny buds.

From a gaming perspective, this means that audio has a clear sense of direction. Footsteps in competitive shooters such as Counter-Strike 2 and Call of Duty: Modern Warfare 3 are easy to track, giving you a distinct advantage in online matches, while cinematic hits like Senua's Saga: Hellblade 2 and Red Dead Redemption 2 sound exceptionally rich and life-like than ever. There was even a moment during my testing when an unseen door was opened behind my character in Hitman 3 and I instinctively turned around in real life, thoroughly convinced that the sound was really coming from behind me.

This high level of immersion makes them a great fit for virtual reality (VR) play too, where the earbuds do an excellent job of staying put thanks to their comfortable and secure design. They’re also very light, coming in at just 0.7oz / 20g in total which helps prevent fatigue over lengthy gaming sessions. A generous selection of five pairs of ear tips is included in the box, alongside some removable ear hooks, making it easy to find the perfect fit.

As impressive as this all is, there is still some room for improvement. The earbuds feature an in-line microphone, which is built into a small controller with two volume buttons and a pause button. The microphone itself is okay, offering slightly muffled recording that is just about good enough if you’re chatting with friends in an online match but nothing to write home about, though the volume controls and pause button only seem to work on mobile devices. This isn’t a huge dealbreaker, but it does sting given the more premium price point of the Final VR3000 compared to alternatives.

A shot of the Final VR3000 earbuds on a wooden table.

(Image credit: Future)

Final VR3000: Price and availability

  • $79.99 / £69.99 / around AU$120
  • Available via Amazon
  • First released in December 2020 

The Final VR3000 earbuds retail for $79.99 / £69.99 / around AU$120 and are readily available at Amazon in the US, UK, and Australia. This price tag puts them towards the higher end of the wired gaming earbuds market, where they begin to compete with some wireless options and even full-size wireless gaming headsets. Still, this seems like a fair price to pay given the high audio quality on offer here and the fact that Final is a more premium specialist brand. 

Final VR3000: Specs

Final VR3000: Design and features

The Final VR3000 are compact and comfortable to wear, with an overall design that shares a lot in common with many professional in-ear monitor (IEM) earbuds. They have a modern, angular shape that allows each bud to slot neatly into your ear with the cable pointing upwards. Like a pair of IEMs, you then hook the cable around the top of your ear which adds some extra support. Because of this, it takes a few seconds to get the earbuds into place but the fit feels extremely secure. I moved around a lot throughout my testing period, particularly when I was playing more intensive VR titles like Vampire: The Masquerade - Justice and Beat Arena, and the buds never became loose or came close to falling out.

A total of five pairs of alternate ear tips are included in the box, ranging from extra small to extra large in size, so you have lots of options to tweak the fit if the default configuration doesn’t work for you. Each set of ear tips is color-coded, with one side sporting a bright red or pink band on its underside. Final states that this is designed to allow you to more easily tell the left and right earbuds apart in low light conditions, which is a great touch and shows some real attention to detail. A pair of small ear hooks are also bundled in, though I found that these were fragile and awkward to install.

The alternate ear tips of the Final VR3000.

(Image credit: Future)

The inside of each earbud is clearly labeled with a small printed left or right indicator, in addition to the Final logo and the model name. They are constructed from a hard matt plastic and connected to a 4ft / 1.2m long cable. Some basic audio controls in the form of a clicky volume up, volume down, and pause button are built into the cable connected to the right earbud, as is a tiny in-line microphone. The materials of the Final VR3000 all feel uniformly premium and the earbuds come with a small black fabric carrying pouch for easy transport.

Final VR3000: Performance

The performance of the Final VR3000 is incredibly impressive in almost every respect. In a game with well-implemented binaural sound, like Escape from Tarkov or Senua’s Saga: Hellblade 2, they are nothing short of perfect. Environmental sounds are clean and crisp, further elevated by an eerily life-like sense of direction and depth. The overall tuning is on the bass-heavy side, which might cause you to lower the volume a little in titles with lots of punchy sound effects like gunfire or explosions, but it gives in-game soundtracks a really satisfying weight. Moments of emotional climax in The Last of Us Part 2 and Alan Wake 2 were just sublime.

The earbuds are also perfect for VR gaming. Paired with the Meta Quest 2 VR headset and my PC, the intricately detailed city of Half Life: Alyx came through with impressive clarity, and everything from the distant hum of vehicles to the chatter of nearby civilians was recreated beautifully. The same was true when it came to a range of native Meta Quest 2 games and I was pleasantly surprised that the earbuds didn't cause any noticeable fatigue during my sessions. If you’re looking for a pair of earbuds to use specifically with a VR headset, then the Final VR3000 are very easy to recommend.

Given this excellent performance, I was a little disappointed to discover that the microphone here is just average. Friends reported that I sounded slightly muffled but still intelligible, and on work calls the buds let in a lot of background noise. It’s also a shame that the onboard controls only work with mobile devices. Having to navigate to a menu on your console or PC in order to adjust the volume isn’t the end of the world but is still pretty inconvenient.

The Final VR3000 gaming earbuds placed on a wooden surface.

(Image credit: Future)

Should I buy the Final VR3000?

Buy it if...

You want more immersive audio from your earbuds
The Final VR3000 offer highly immersive audio with a real sense of direction and depth. Pick up a pair if you want the very latest games to sound incredibly life-like and rich.

You need earbuds for VR
These earbuds have a design that is absolutely perfect for virtual reality. They help VR games sound their absolute best and stay comfortable and secure while you play.

Don't buy it if...

You want the best mic
The microphone of the Final VR3000 is bang average. You can find cheaper earbuds that offer comparable (or even sometimes better) microphone performance. See the comparison below for some other options.

Also consider...

If you’re not fully satisfied with what the Final VR3000 has to offer, these two cheaper alternatives are well worth your consideration. 

Final VR500
They lack the punchy bass of the Final VR3000, but these budget-friendly gaming earbuds are also from Final and are the definite way to go if you want some impressive sound at a much lower price.

For more information, check out our full Final VR500 review

SteelSeries Tusq
What the SteelSeries Tusq loses in overall audio quality and build, it gains in microphone fidelity. These affordable gaming earbuds feature a removable boom mic that makes them the best option for chatting.

For more information, check out our full SteelSeries Tusq review.

The Final VR3000 earbuds plugged into an Xbox Wireless Controller.

(Image credit: Future)

How I tested the Final VR3000

  • Used for more than two weeks
  • Tested with a wide range of platforms 
  • Evaluated against other gaming earbuds 

I used the Final VR3000 as my primary gaming earbuds for more than two weeks, using them almost daily. During that time I tested them with a wide variety of platforms including PS5, Xbox Series S, Nintendo Switch, PC, and Steam Deck OLED. I played a wide variety of games in order to assess their performance, including Counter-Strike 2, Call of Duty: Modern Warfare 3, Escape from Tarkov, Hellblade: Senua’s Sacrifice, Senua’s Saga: Hellblade 2, Luigi’s Mansion 2, The Crew Motorfest, The Caligula Effect 2, and more.

I also tried plenty of VR games using my PC and a Meta Quest 2 headset, such as Gun Club VR, Half-Life: Alyx, Vampire: The Masquerade - Justice, and Beat Arena. I chatted with friends and recorded a selection of audio files in a variety of settings using two separate PCs in order to assess the performance of the microphone. Throughout the testing period, I compared my experience with my hands-on testing of other gaming earbuds such as the Final VR500, SteelSeries Tusq, Turtle Beach Battle Buds, and more.

Read more about how we test

First reviewed June 2024

Luna Wireless Controller review: a decent gamepad for Amazon Luna aficionados
8:00 pm | May 27, 2024
Author: admin | Category: Computers Gadgets Gaming Gaming Accessories | Comments: Off

One-minute review

As the name would suggest, the Amazon Luna Wireless Controller is designed specifically for the Amazon Luna cloud gaming service. Although it looks just like most other gamepads, its flagship feature is integrated Wi-Fi functionality that connects the controller directly to Amazon’s servers, cutting down latency by removing your PC or mobile phone from the equation. 

This feature alone makes it worthwhile if you’re a dedicated Amazon Luna user, as it does make a noticeable difference to play. While I never found Amazon Luna to be hugely unresponsive when playing with a conventional controller or a keyboard and mouse, the Luna Wireless Controller feels considerably snappier.

The Wi-Fi functionality also enables a few neat tricks, like the ability to seamlessly switch between multiple devices if they’re all connected to the same network. Because of its reliance on Wi-Fi, however, the controller must be set up using the compatible Luna Controller mobile app which might be a dealbreaker for some. 

Although Amazon Luna is the clear focus, the Luna Wireless Controller is still compatible with a small number of other devices via Bluetooth. This includes iOS and Android phones in addition to PC, though enabling PC functionality requires a dedicated driver that’s buried in a support page on the Amazon customer service website. The experience on PC isn't anything too exceptional compared to many of the best PC controllers, but it would be a solid choice in a pinch. 

A close-up shot of the D-pad of the Luna Wireless Controller.

(Image credit: Dashiell Wood / Future)

Price and availability

  •  $69.99 / £59.99
  • Available from Amazon in the US and UK 
  • Not available in Australia 

The Luna Wireless Controller costs $69.99 / £59.99 and is available to purchase from Amazon. Like the Amazon Luna cloud gaming service, the controller is available in both the UK and US but is not currently offered in Australia. 

At this price, the Luna Wireless Controller comes in more expensive than alternatives like the Xbox Wireless Controller, which costs $59.99 / £54.99 and is also fully compatible with Amazon Luna.  While the Xbox Wireless Controller lacks the ability to connect directly to Amazon’s game servers, meaning that it suffers from more latency, it's still going to be a solid option for most players.

Specs

A side-on shot of the Luna Wireless Controller.

(Image credit: Dashiell Wood / Future)

Design and features

In terms of overall design, the Luna Wireless Controller is about as standard as they come. It has a layout that is almost identical to the Xbox Wireless Controller, with roughly the same overall shape and button layout. It is constructed from an impressively high-quality plastic though, offering grips that are very sturdy with a slightly dimpled texture that makes them extremely comfortable in the hands. In addition to the standard controller face buttons, which are pleasantly tactile and very responsive, the Luna Wireless controller has the standard home button, start button, and select button on top of a much less conventional Alexa button.

The Alexa button launches Amazon’s voice assistant, which you speak to through the controller’s integrated microphone. It’s quite useful if you need to set a timer or create a quick reminder during a game, but sadly this feature is only available when you’re playing on a Fire TV meaning that most won’t be able to take advantage of it. The home button is also rather unique, as it features a colorful LED ring that glows with a soft purple hue while the controller is in use. This color changes to convey important information about the controller, like if it’s low on battery or currently in pairing mode, which is a great touch.

On the top of the controller are the expected triggers, shoulder buttons, and a USB-C connector. Although the Luna Wireless Controller is powered by two AA batteries, which disappointingly last around four hours at most, it can be used with Amazon Luna in a wired capacity if you’re willing to forgo the Wi-Fi connection. 

The bottom of the controller is then home to the 3.5mm headphone jack, which can be used with any compatible wired gaming headset.

A birds-eye view of the Luna Wireless Controller on a desk.

(Image credit: Dashiell Wood / Future)

Performance

The thumbsticks are smooth and responsive, decorated with charming purple highlights that lend the otherwise plain black and gray controller a much-needed dash of color. The D-pad is perfectly functional overall, but its large and mostly flat shape makes it a poor fit for certain genres. In a fast-paced beat-em-up like River City Girls, for example, I found that it was quite unwieldy when it came to quickly swapping between left and right movements.

The shoulder buttons on the Luna Wireless Controller are excellent, with a similar level of clickiness to the face buttons, but the triggers do leave a lot to be desired. They have a bizarre level of resistance and require a fair amount of force to pull which I found left my fingers feeling sore after particularly long sessions in first-person shooter (FPS) games like Tom Clancy’s Rainbow Six Extraction.

All in all, the Luna Wireless Controller is a pretty robust package with a few clear areas for improvement. While it will certainly satisfy many Amazon Luna fans, it’s not a controller that’s going to win over anyone not already fully invested in the service - especially given its high asking price compared to the competition.

A front-on shot of the Luna Wireless Controller.

(Image credit: Dashiell Wood / Future)

Should I buy the Luna Wireless Controller?

Buy it if...

Don't buy it if...

 Also Consider

If you’re looking for a controller that works well with Amazon Luna, you should also consider these two alternatives.

The top of the Luna Wireless Controller.

(Image credit: Dashiell Wood / Future)

How I tested the Luna Wireless Controller

  • Tested for over a month
  • Used with Amazon Luna and PC
  • Compared to other gaming controllers

I tested the Luna Wireless Controller for over a month. During this time I used it as my main controller while playing the Amazon Luna cloud gaming service, experiencing a wide variety of different games to assess its performance in a range of genres. This included plenty of Fortnite, the bulk of a Lego Star Wars 3: The Clone Wars playthrough, some River City Girls, Tom Clancy's Rainbow Six Extraction, Elex 2, Overcooked 2, and more. I tested the features of the Luna Controller app using an iPhone 15 Plus and also made sure to try out the controller’s 3.5mm headphone jack with a SteelSeries Tusq gaming headset.

Outside of Amazon Luna, I briefly used the controller with my PC. Here I played a couple of rounds of Double Dragon Gaiden: Rise of the Dragons and ran around the sun-soaked streets of Like a Dragon: Infinite Wealth in order to compare the experience with other gamepads.

Read more about how we test

First reviewed May 2024

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