Organizer
Gadget news
I’ve tested dozens of robot vacuums, and this model has some of the best carpet cleaning I’ve ever seen
5:16 pm | February 9, 2026

Author: admin | Category: Computers Gadgets Home Robot Vacuums Smart Home | Tags: , , | Comments: Off

Roborock Qrevo Curv 2 Pro: two-minute review

The Roborock Qrevo Curv 2 Pro is a premium, feature-rich, hybrid floor-cleaning robot that delivers an impressive 25,000 Pascals of suction – great for lifting fine dust, debris and pet hair from hard floors and even deep-pile carpet. With its ultra-slim profile. retractable LiDAR navigation turret and clever AdaptiLift chassis with omnidirectional wheels, this bot can clean under very low furniture and scale especially tall thresholds.

Those 'AdaptiLift' stilts also enable this robot vacuum to hover at exactly the right height over thick carpet and rugs. In practice, this worked extremely well – the Curv 2 Pro offers some of the very best carpet cleaning performance I've experienced.

While the Qrevo Curv 2 Pro's navigation is robust and reliable (it uses a combination of lasers and an RGB camera), its Reactive AI obstacle avoidance isn't quite up to the accurate standards of some of its premium stablemates.

Given that this is a hybrid robot, it comes with a dual-spinning mop system that exerts 12 Newtons of downward pressure for tackling everyday messes though it will struggle with liquid spills and some ingrained stains. These mops also automatically detach or lift up whenever the bot is on carpet or crossing a rug.

The chunky, curvy look of Roborock's newly updated Hygiene+ 3.0 docking system may not be to everyone's liking but there's no doubting its efficiency at maintaining the robot on a daily basis. Like most of today's hybrid models, the dock charges the bot after every cleaning session, automatically empties the contents of the robot's diminutive bin into the dock's large 2.7-liter dust bag, and washes the robot's two spinning mop pads with hot water before wafting hot air over them to prevent smells and mould. In other words, it's mostly hands free.

Overall, the Qrevo Curv 2 Pro is an exceptionally capable everyday floor cleaning solution that offers excellent suction, intelligent navigation and a highly self-sufficient dock. Granted, it doesn't have the best obstacle avoidance I've ever encountered, but for everyday household cleaning of both hard floors and especially carpet, it's an efficient workhorse that shouldn't let you down.

Roborock Qrevo Curv 2 Pro robot vacuum in reviewer's home

(Image credit: Future)

Roborock Qrevo Curv 2 Pro review: price & availability

  • List price: €899 (about $1,060 / £780 / AU$1,520)
  • Available: Europe and Asia – US, UK and AU to follow
  • Launched: September 2025

The Roborock Qrevo Curv 2 Pro sits toward the premium end of the robot vacuum spectrum and generally delivers solid value for money, if your priorities are advanced automation and cleaning performance. High-end features like expert LiDAR-based mapping and decent obstacle avoidance justify the price for users who want a mostly set-and-forget cleaning solution rather than a basic scheduled robot.

That said, there are similar robots at lower cost that may suit some households just as well. For instance, in the UK the standard Roborock Qrevo S5V with a decent 12,000Pa of suction power, self-cleaning dock and similar mopping system retails at a smidge under £500 for the black model and £425 for the white. Or, for just £549, the excellent Dreame L40 Ultra with 19,000Pa is an equally good bet.

No question, the Qrevo Curv 2 Pro offers very decent value for those who want maximum convenience and features (including AdaptiLift), but there are some less expensive robots out there that are on a par for typical floor cleaning tasks.

As of writing, the Roborock Qrevo Curv 2 Pro is only available in select territories, including most of Europe (where it's selling for around €899) and some Asian and Middle East countries. The rest of the world, including the USA, UK, Canada and Australia, will see staggered launches throughout 2026.

  • Value for money score: 4 out of 5

Roborock Qrevo Curv 2 Pro specs

Max suction:

25,000Pa

Robot diameter:

13.8 x 13.9in / 35 x 35.2cm

Robot height:

3.1 in / 8cm

Dock dimensions (W x D x H):

17.7 x 17.7 x 17.7 in / 45 x 45 x 45cm

Mop type:

Dual spinning discs

Max threshold clearance: 

1.6 in / 4cm (double-layer)

Dust bin volume (base):

2.7L

Water tank volume:

3.2L (clean), 3L (dirty)

Base functions:

Charge, empty dust, wash mop pads with hot water, dry mop pads with hot air, self-clean

Roborock Qrevo Curv 2 Pro review: design

  • Excellent suction power, with split rollers to avoid hair tangle
  • Retractable LiDAR puck and 'AdaptiLift' legs for deep carpet and tall thresholds
  • Large but fully-featured cleaning dock

As I mentioned in my review of the Roborock Q5 Pro+ in March 2025, there's a proliferation of robot vacuum brands on the market right now, each with a huge roster of models. This makes it a challenge for any journalist writing about a specific robot vacuum cleaner that is, in many ways, very similar to other models on the market, and it must be even more confusing for the consumer when faced with so many options.

Take Roborock, for instance. There are currently five different models in its Saros range, five in the Qrevo Curv Series, eight in the standard Qrevo range, five in the S Series, four in the Qrevo Edge Series and seven models in the lower-priced Q Series. And that's without even having a sniff at all the other brands like Dreame, Ecovacs, Eufy, Narwal, EZVIZ, Switchbot and iRobot. It seems that the world is awash in robot vacs at the moment and the same thing is already beginning to happen with robot lawn mowers.

But I digress – let's look at the Qrevo Curv 2 Pro in more detail and see if it's as good as the myriad of other premium models I've reviewed from the Roborock stable.

Robot vacuum design

On the surface, Roborock's Qrevo Curv 2 Pro adopts the same design principles as many other premium robot vacuum cleaners. The robot itself – 13.8 in / 35cm in diameter – is circular in shape with a centrally-located roller brush, an expandable side sweeping brush for edge and corner cleaning, two circular mops that are automatically ejected in the dock or raised whenever the robot is working on or crossing over carpet, a LiDAR turret for expert navigation, plus a full gamut of other navigational and obstacle avoidance aids. The Full Monty, in other words.

Roborock Qrevo Curv 2 Pro robot vacuum in reviewer's home

(Image credit: Future)

As one might expect from a renowned manufacturer like Roborock, build quality is exceptional throughout and well up there with the best in premium robot vacs. I've reviewed many Roborock products over the years and have never once experienced any issues aside from the odd clogging of a dust bag or some cotton tangled around a spindle. In the main, they have all performed reliably and efficiently. As a consequence, Roborock is the brand I always recommend whenever asked.

Given the popularity of Roborock's retractable LiDAR turrets that allow many models from its current roster to venture beneath low-slung furnishings, it's no surprise that Roborock has opted to fit the same RetractSense system to this particular model. As a result, when the Qrevo Curv 2 Pro's turret is retracted, the height of the robot measures a squat 3.14in / 7.98cm.

That means it can scuttle under most wardrobes, TV stands and low sofas as long as there's a minimum of 3in / 8cm of clearance. This is a major boon for anyone who has struggled to clean such inaccessible areas using a standard stick vac, especially one that isn't equipped with a Shark-inspired bendy suction tube.

Roborock Qrevo Curv 2 Pro robot vacuum in reviewer's home

(Image credit: Future)

The Qrevo Curv 2 Pro uses the aforementioned tried-and-trusted LiDAR system for its primary navigation, a VertiBeam lateral laser system for accurate edge cleaning around furniture, an upward-facing Range Finder for measuring overhead clearance, a top contact sensor to prevent the robot from jamming itself and, importantly, a combination of 'structured light' and a front-facing RGB camera with LED light for expert obstacle avoidance in all lighting conditions.

According to Roborock the Qrevo Curv 2 Pro can recognise over 200 objects, 'from tangled cables to pet surprises' but presumably only when the 'Pet' switch in the app is activated. Incidentally, the Pet setting also ensures that the robot's brush roller stops working the moment the sensors detect a furry friend.

While I personally prefer the idea of a dual counter-rotating brush head system as introduced by iRobot, Roborock has quite recently started fitting some of its bots with single split rubber brushes that meet with a small gap in the centre, and that's the case with this model. According to Roborock, the so-called 'DuoDivide' layout helps deal with hair tangles by moving the hair towards the suction gap in the middle to prevent it from getting tangled around the roller's spindles. I vouch that this system works very well and I have no issues to report regarding pet hair tangles.

Roborock Qrevo Curv 2 Pro robot vacuum in reviewer's home

(Image credit: Future)

However, as mentioned in my article on overdue robot innovations I want to see, I really do wish robot manufacturers would adopt D-shaped bodies to their products, because the circular ones of norm require fitting a short 6.3in / 16cm roller brush between the robot's wheels, which leaves as much as 3.5in / 9cm of unused space on either side of the roller.

I cite iRobot's very early S9+ as an example. This D-shaped robot came onto the market in 2019 and featured a long 9in / 23cm rubber roller positioned near the front, almost across the entire width of the machine. This meant it was not only better at collecting dust along edges, but it also picked up a wider band of detritus with every sweep. Perhaps there's a valid technical reason why the vast majority of robot vacs are circular, so answers on a postcard please.

Roborock Qrevo Curv 2 Pro cleaning a thick, cream carpet

(Image credit: Future)

Let's look at this bot's suction power, because suction strength is one of the only differences between the Qrevo Curv 2 Pro and its sibling, the Qrevo CurvX. Where the Roborock S8 MaxV Ultra TechRadar reviewed in July 2024 featured a then 'industry-leading' 10,000 Pascals of suction power, this one hits the 25,000Pa mark; 3,000Pa more than the Qrevo CurvX. Mind, even this lofty stat is still 5,000Pa shy of the Dreame Matrix10 Ultra I recently reviewed, but it just goes to show how fast robot vacuum technology has advanced in such a short space of time. For the record, the Qrevo Curv 2 Pro offers five levels of suction, from quiet to MAX+.

Given that this robot is of the hybrid variety, it also comes with a full mopping system comprised of twin spinning mops on the rear, with the ability to extend the mop on one side for cleaning around furniture legs and in corners. These mops are only used for hard floor cleaning and are therefore either raised when the robot is crossing carpet or rugs, or left behind in the dock if the robot is only performing a vacuum task. Like all decent mopping bots, the Qrevo Curv 2 Pro's mops are given a thorough wash and dry after each working session, and you can read more about this in the Dock Design chapter directly below.

Roborock Qrevo Curv 2 Pro cleaning a spillage from a hard floor

(Image credit: Future)

Finally, those with single or double thresholds up to 1.6in / 4cm in height will be thrilled to learn that the Qrevo Curv 2 Pro has been fitted with Roborock's clever AdaptiLift technology. Rather than relying on fixed-height wheels like traditional robot vacuums, AdaptiLift gives the Qrevo Curv 2 Pro the ability to dynamically raise and lower its chassis and wheels to adapt to complex floor environments.

The robot's two articulated wheels literally allow the robot to automatically lift and tilt its body to clear high thresholds and even maintain optimal brush and suction contact across different floor types, including carpets with up to 1.2in / 3cm of pile. It also helps free the robot when encountering an obstruction. By intelligently sensing floor transitions and responding in real time, AdaptiLift reduces the need for manual intervention while expanding the robot's practical reach within a home. What's not to like?

Dock design

Roborock's Qrevo Curv series is defined by the curvature of its newly updated Hygiene+ 3.0 dock design. Available only in white, this rounded design aesthetic differs from the rectangular norm and looks shiny, minimalist and, dare I say, rather swish when installed in a modern home. However, its rotund shape may not be to everyone's taste.

Roborock Qrevo Curv 2 Pro robot vacuum in reviewer's home

(Image credit: Future)

Like the majority of robot docks, this one charges the robot after every task (it takes approximately 3 to 4 hours to charge from 0%) as well as emptying the contents of the robot's small 270ml bin into the dock's much larger 2.7-liter dust bag. If you don't have pets, expect about a month or so to pass before the dust bag is full and ready for disposal. However, if you have hairy pets like me, then be prepared to fit a new bag every couple of weeks or so. To save on the cost of extra bags, I often remove the hair and muck in the bag using a pair of long-nose pliers. It's messy, yes, but it saves money in the long run.

Roborock Qrevo Curv 2 Pro robot vacuum in reviewer's home

(Image credit: Future)

Given that this robot also mops hard floors, the mops always go through a thorough cleaning regime in the dock after every cleaning session. This involves scrubbing them using water at 212F / 100C followed by a 122F / 50C hot-air drying session to prevent mould and nasty odours. All you have to do is occasionally fill the dock's 3.2-liter reservoir with fresh water and dispose of the contents in the 3-liter dirty water tank.

Various levels of moisture can be added to the mops depending on the type of flooring you have. Simply go to the Roborock app and select the level of moisture required – for vinyl flooring I would suggest a higher level, and for wooden flooring I'd opt for one of the various levels well below the midway mark. This is especially pertinent for thin laminated flooring which can easily warp if too damp.

  • Design score: 4 out of 5

Roborock Qrevo Curv 2 Pro review: performance

  • Exemplary carpet cleaning performance
  • Acceptable mopping performance
  • Slightly disappointing obstacle avoidance

I have no major anomalies to report regarding this bot's navigation which is generally very good, though it might take the long way round to get to its place of work rather than a direct path. I've noticed a lot of robot vacs do this but then I've also noticed that some models, specifically those from Roborock, appear to learn over time and eventually take the shorter, direct route. I would expect this model to start doing the same over the next few weeks.

While the Qrevo Curv 2 Pro's first mapping run of my open-plan area was a success, it didn't initially name the rooms in my home as accurately as the Dreame Matrix10 Ultra. While it correctly named the kitchen, it treated the open-plan lounge and dining area as one large room and called it the sunroom. It also named the hallway as the living room and the hall passage as a bedroom. By comparison, the Matrix10 Ultra not only named every room correctly, but all areas were divided correctly, too.

Roborock Qrevo Curv 2 Pro returning to its dock, with a dog asleep in the backgroun

(Image credit: Future)

Mind, this slight hiccup in the Qrevo Curv 2 Pro's room recognition was easily rectified by using the Roborock app to divide, merge and rename all rooms correctly. The key takeaway here is that this bot has never not found its charging dock, has never got lost under a sofa and has never stranded itself under the dining table. Every cleaning task has generally gone without any navigational hitches, and that's all you need to know.

Obstacle avoidance

For my obstacle avoidance test I laid out an assault course of dog toys, including two small items to replicate the size of average dog waste. While the robot deftly avoided the larger obstacles over two inches in height, it twice ran over one of the smaller items, a one-inch tall nylon bone. In the Qrevo Curv 2 Pro's defence, this item often flummoxes robots though I'll admit that I was surprised that the Curv 2 Pro didn't avoid it given the Roborock website's poo-dodging claim.

Roborock Qrevo Curv 2 Pro avoiding obstacles including a wire and dog toys, on a patterned rug
Future
Roborock Qrevo Curv 2 Pro avoiding obstacles including a wire and dog toys, on a patterned rug
Future
Roborock Qrevo Curv 2 Pro avoiding obstacles including a wire and dog toys, on a patterned rug
Future

I then added a phone cable to the mix and, despite adjustments in the app, I was surprised to see the robot run over the cable on three separate occasions, even wrapping the cable around the brush head in one instance. This one really surprised me so I checked the multitude of parameters in the app – I had 'Pet' selected for extra overall sensitivity – and I couldn't see any conflicting settings. The upshot is that, while I consider this model's obstacle avoidance to be generally acceptable, I wouldn't rely on it to avoid all clutter in the home. More importantly, I would never rely on it to avoid dog mess of any shape or form.

Vacuum performance

Roborock has been marketing this bot as one of the best for carpet cleaning and, on evidence of my test using oats, muesli and crushed biscuits, I'd say the claim is spot on. I was blown away by how well it tackled the test.

I admittedly selected two passes in the app and MAX+ mode for 25,000Pa of suction, but I needn't have bothered going that far because pass number one was enough to remove the vast majority of detritus. That's an exceptional result, and one of the best I've seen for carpet pickup. I also tried it on a thick pile carpet upstairs and was equally impressed that it a) it managed to collect a sprinkling of oats and b) it didn't get bogged down in the pile.

Roborock Qrevo Curv 2 Pro on a patterned carpet rug, with oats and crumbs sprinkled in front of it
The carpet rug before the vacuuming testFuture
Roborock Qrevo Curv 2 Pro in the process of clearing oats and crumbs from a patterned carpet rug
... during the test...Future
Roborock Qrevo Curv 2 Pro on a patterned carpet rug, with no oats or crumbs remaining after the vacuuming test
... and the results afterwardsFuture
Roborock Qrevo Curv 2 Pro on a patterned carpet rug, with its onboard bin open to reveal oats and crumbs that it has just sucked up
The contents of the bin following the testFuture

For the hard floor test, I used the same ingredients but changed the suction one level down to Max. I was generally very pleased with the results though, as is often the case with robots, the edges weren't completely cleaned and some of the debris was scattered by the robot's spinning side brush – which just goes to show why having a cordless stick vac to hand is always advisable.

Roborock Qrevo Curv 2 Pro robot vacuum before the suction test on hard flooring
The Qrevo Curv 2 Pro before the suction test on hard flooring...Future
Roborock Qrevo Curv 2 Pro robot vacuum during the suction test on hard flooring
... during the test...Future
Roborock Qrevo Curv 2 Pro robot vacuum after the suction test on hard flooring
... and the results afterwardsFuture
Remains of oats and crumbs in the corner of a room following the suction test on hard flooring
As with many bots, the Curv 2 Pro didn't do a perfect job of the cornersFuture

Mopping performance

In terms of its bi-weekly mopping ability, I've been impressed by the Qrevo Curv 2 Pro's overall performance. It has dealt with light stains and general footfall marks very well, including regularly extending one of its articulated mopping pads when traveling along skirting boards, in corners and around chair and table legs.

However, there's only so much one can ask of a twin-pad mopping system like this because, unlike some roller-based models which rinse the roller while it's cleaning, the pads on this aren't cleaned during the mopping task. And that means that any gunk that appears to have been cleaned off the floor actually remains on the mops – which is then spread around the rest of the floor. It's the nature of the beast, which is why it's never advisable to let a robot with spinning pads loose on a large-ish liquid spill.

To prove this, I created a small 'zone' in my kitchen, squirted some tomato ketchup over my wooden floor and commanded the Qrevo Curv 2 Pro to go and clean it up, having set the mop moisture setting to medium. On initial evidence it did a fine job at removing the mess, though it did leave one small smear behind. However, on closer inspection in the right reflective lighting, I could clearly see some clear but slimy swirls on the floor which would invariably dry, leaving a tacky residue behind.

Roborock Qrevo Curv 2 Pro cleaning a spillage from a hard floor
Before the mopping test...Future
Roborock Qrevo Curv 2 Pro cleaning a spillage from a hard floor
...during... Future
Roborock Qrevo Curv 2 Pro cleaning a spillage from a hard floor
... and the results afterwardsFuture
Roborock Qrevo Curv 2 Pro cleaning a spillage from a hard floor
Another look at the mopping resultsFuture

Had I not had the excellent Roborock F25 Ultra to hand to completely finish the job, I would have had to reach for the good old mop and bucket to fully remove all residue. This is no slight on the Qrevo Curv 2 Pro since all mopping robots of this nature behave the same way. You just need to choose your battles carefully.

Dock performance

While I don't mind the look of the Qrevo Curv 2 Pro's dock, it's not a patch on its stylish stablemates, the Roborock Saros 10 and 10R, which both come with black mirrored docks that meld into the background of any room. By contrast, this one is larger in appearance and much more noticeable.

From an operational point of view, the dock itself has proved faultless over the past few weeks with no anomalies to report. Yes, the bin emptying process is quite noisy but it's been powerful enough to always empty the robot's bins even when packed with dog hair. It has also washed and maintained the mops very well leaving no residue behind.

Roborock Qrevo Curv 2 Pro dock

(Image credit: Future)

Is there anything negative to report about the dock? Well I'm not keen on the design of the dock's dust bag container, since its deep and narrow, downward-facing chamber entails having the dust bag hang and bend at the top where it connects with the inlet. When filled with detritus, the weight of it could feasibly cut off airflow into the bag. I should add that I haven't had any issue to date with the emptying process but I still maintain that it's an odd design that appears to go against simple physics. But what do I know?

  • Performance score: 4 out of 5

Roborock Qrevo Curv 2 Pro review: app

  • Exceedingly comprehensive
  • Well laid out
  • Easy to use

The Roborock app is an essential companion that elevates the Qrevo Curv 2 Pro's overall cleaning experience from the moment you open it. Cleanly designed and intuitively laid out, this app makes both initial setup and day-to-day control extremely straightforward, whether you're a first-time robot vacuum owner or a seasoned user who requires a plethora of customization options.

Screenshots from the Roborock companion app
Roborock / Future
Screenshots from the Roborock companion app
Roborock / Future

Mapping is mostly accurate, with detailed floor plans that are highly editable, allowing you to label rooms, set no-go zones, define virtual walls and customize cleaning routines with surprising precision. Moreover, the ability to adjust suction power, mopping intensity and cleaning sequences on a per-room basis gives users a level of control that few competitors can match, Dreame notwithstanding.

The Roborock app also supports a raft of scheduling options, self-created routines and multi-level home management, making it easy to tailor cleaning to your lifestyle. Combined with its stable connectivity and regular firmware updates, this app feels genuinely mature and thoughtfully engineered. Which is why it's still my favorite robot app of all.

  • App score: 4.5 out of 5

Roborock Qrevo Curv 2 Pro review: scorecard

Attribute

Notes

Rating

Value

A premium robovac (although a step below most flagship models). Advanced specs and features justify the price tag.

4 / 5

Design

Sleek, ultra-slim profile and packed with features. Dock is comprehensive but quite chunky.

4 / 5

Performance

Excellent vacuuming and especially impressive on carpet. Mopping very acceptable but obstacle avoidance a bit underwhelming.

4 / 5

App

The Roborock app is the gold standard for design and features.

4.5 / 5

How I tested the Roborock Qrevo Curv 2 Pro

With so many similarly-specced robot vacs on the market, it's becoming quite difficult to detect the differences between them. But in this day and age, specs mean nothing if the bot doesn't perform to the high standards that TechRadar's writers expect.

We always strive to get the best out of the products we review and always push them to the limits of their functionality. In this case I tested the robot vac on different floor types, watched it navigate a room, set up an obstacle course and put it to four performance tests – carpet vacuuming, hard floor vacuuming, general mopping and messy mopping. Half points out of five are then awarded for each category and averaged out for a final score. Five stars are only given to a product that unequivocally impresses on all fronts but four-stars products, too, are absolutely worth investigation.

Read more about how we test robot vacuum cleaners

  • First reviewed February 2026
Dyson’s new wet cleaner tackles spills and messes with ease — but for me, it isn’t quite exceptional enough to justify that price tag
11:00 am | February 2, 2026

Author: admin | Category: Computers Gadgets Home Small Appliances Vacuums | Tags: , , | Comments: Off

Dyson Clean+Wash Hygiene: two-minute review

The Clean+Wash Hygiene is the second in Dyson's hard floor cleaner line. Like its range-mate, the Dyson WashG1, it stands out for not using suction at all, but instead harnessing a mixture of 'agitation, hydration and separation' to get your hard floors squeaky clean.

The absence of suction means this cleaner is significantly lighter than most true wet-dry vacuums, and it also means it can operate relatively quietly. On test, I couldn't see a compromise in performance, either: I was very impressed with how effectively the Clean+Wash Hygiene picked up all kinds of messes, including chunky particles like oats, using just its cleverly designed roller.

Liquid waste is separated from solid, and one USP here is that all the waste is stored in the floorhead itself. Dyson says this is good news for longevity, because there are no pipes to get grimy or blocked up. I did find the emptying process a little fiddly, and the floorhead was drippier than other hard floor cleaners I've used.

There's a self-clean cycle that runs fresh water through the system. It will likely require you to empty the dirty water tank and refill the clean one mid-cycle, but otherwise it's effective at removing dirt from the roller. Dyson has also added hot air drying here – it's noisy but again, effective. Even after the muckiest of cleaning task, my roller looked good-as-new afterwards.

Bar some minor quibbles, I was impressed with this cleaner. Whether it's worth the asking price is another thing – I've tested some of the best wet-and-dry vacuums on the market, and there's little that stands out as truly exceptional here, unfortunately.

That's the short version; read on for my full Dyson Clean+Wash Hygiene review.

Dyson Clean+Wash Hygiene

(Image credit: Future)

Dyson Clean+Wash Hygiene review: price & availability

  • List price: £429.99
  • Available: Now in the UK, US and AU to follow
  • Launched: December 2025

The Dyson Clean+Wash Hygiene went on sale in the UK in December 2025, at a list price of £429.99. It's due to become available in the US and in Australia in 2026, but I don't have any specifics or pricing yet – based on UK pricing, it might be around $600 / AU$850.

That's in the premium band for a hard floor cleaner, and although the build quality is excellent and plenty of thought has clearly gone into the design, I don't think it does quite enough to justify the price tag. For that kind of money I'd expect to see the option of suction, and special features like dirt detection, automatic adjustment, and even foam / steam functions.

  • Value for money score: 3 out of 5

Dyson Clean+Wash Hygiene specs

Cleaner size (H x L x W):

43.1 x 9.6 x 11 inches / 109.6 x 24.4 x 28cm

Dock size (H x L x W):

9.4 x 11 x 10.1 inches / 24 x 28 x 25.7cm

Weight (empty):

8.4lbs / 3.8kg

Clean water tank volume:

0.75L

Dirty water tank volume:

0.52L

Max runtime:

45 mins

Dock cable length:

5.9ft / 1.8m

Dyson Clean+Wash Hygiene review: design

  • Streamlined and relatively lightweight, and can lie flat
  • Waste is stored in the floorhead, and separated into solids and liquids
  • Self-clean function and hot air drying on the dock

The Dyson Clean+Wash Hygiene is a lightweight hard floor cleaner with a handful of interesting design features. Rather surprisingly given this brand's heritage, there's no suction here – instead, it uses hydration and agitation to remove dirt from hard flooring.

The roller spins at speed, and is continually fed with fresh water, as the dirty stuff is scraped off. It can handle mixed solid-and-liquid spills, and to a certain extent also dust and other dry debris (although it won't be as effective as a regular stick vacuum here).

Dyson Clean+Wash Hygiene floorhead

(Image credit: Future)

The roller is densely packed with fibers to make it as absorbent as possible, and Dyson has added wiry bristles that stick out a bit, for extra scrubbing power. There's also an anti-tangle comb behind the roller to prevent hair wrap. On one side the roller goes right up close to the edge of the floorhead, but on the other there's a decent chunk of casing. The roller can be removed for rinsing as required.

One of the areas where Dyson tends to shine in its floorcare range is maneuverability, but I didn't find the Clean+Wash Hygiene quite as nimble as I expected. Don't get me wrong, it's far from cumbersome – it's streamlined in design and pivots smoothly, but it felt a little less agile than something like the Dyson WashG1. I was impressed that it could lie completely flat to the ground, until the whole thing is just 4.44 inches / 11.3cm tall. A small wheel on the back of the handle helps it maneuver smoothly in this mode.

Dyson Clean+Wash Hygiene floorhead

(Image credit: Future)

The dirty water compartment is integrated into the floorhead itself – similar to the mopping floorhead on the Dyson V15s Detect Submarine. The thinking is that because the dirt has nowhere to really travel, there's no tubing to get clogged up. Liquid ends up in a dirty water tank, and solid waste is filtered out into a separate tray. The two compartments are removed as one, but getting them apart and then back together again is a little fiddly compared to other wet-dry vacuums I've tested... not to mention messier.

Dyson Clean+Wash Hygiene screen and controls

(Image credit: Future)

There are three hydration modes to choose from, and a Boost mode to add extra water for tackling dried-on dirt. Dyson proudly claims the 750ml clean water tank will cover an area of 350 sqm, leaving such a fine sheen of moisture that your floors will be dry within 60 seconds. There are no other special modes, such as automated setting adjustment.

Dyson Clean+Wash Hygiene dock

(Image credit: Future)

One major upgrade on the Clean+Wash Hygiene compared to the WashG1 is that Dyson has introduced hot air drying on the dock. So after mopping, you run a self-clean cycle which runs fresh water over the roller. Then it's dried using wafts of warm (185F / 85C) air, saving you from having to remove it and put it out somewhere to dry.

  • Design score: 4 out of 5

Dyson Clean+Wash Hygiene review: performance

  • Efficient, relatively quiet cleaning of liquid and solid spills
  • Floorhead a little drippy, and self-clean cycle uses a lot of water
  • Mop drying rather noisy but effective

I started by filling up the clean water and embarking on a whole-floor clean. The roller saturated fairly quickly without any pre-wetting, and left a very light, even sheen of water on my vinyl flooring. It's easy to toggle modes, and the screen spells out remaining cleaning time so you'll never unexpectedly run out of battery.

Because there's no suction, it's relatively quiet in operation, and the runtimes are long too. The Clean+Wash Hygiene can last up to 45 minutes per charge.

Cleaning

To assess its capabilities more closely, I tested how the Dyson Clean+Wash Hygiene handled a range of tricky cleaning challenges. I started with soy sauce mixed with oats. It gobbled up all the oats in one forward and backward pass in Med mode – impressive, given there's no suction here.

Dyson Clean+Wash Hygiene

(Image credit: Future)

Then I decided it was time to bring out the big guns. I smeared maple syrup, crunchy peanut butter and Marmite (a super-sticky, viscous spread) on a vinyl floor. This time it struggled a bit. I unleashed Boost mode, and it took about 20 seconds of back-and-forth to clear the mess. That's a decent result – this test is purposefully very tricky. Plus, there was no sticky residue left behind.

Like every wet-and-dry cleaner I'm aware of, this machine is only suitable for perfectly flat floors. It can't deal with uneven surfaces such as flagstones, and it won't get into the cracks between tiles either – although it does do a better job of this than some, thanks to those bristles in the roller.

Maintenance

After my mopping session, it was time to clean out the waste. Although I see the logic in separating liquid from solid waste, and I acknowledge the potential long-term maintenance benefits, the emptying process does feel fiddlier than usual.

Unlike on the WashG1, you can't get your hand inside the dirty water tank to clean it out. The design of the tank also makes it very difficult to see when it's filling up, although it will inform you on screen.

I also found the floorhead had a tendency to drip or leak dirty water when handled. No wet-dry vacuum is perfect in this respect, but this Dyson machine seems especially bad for it, perhaps because the waste compartments are relatively complicated in design, with lots of separate elements.

Dyson Clean+Wash Hygiene floorhead

(Image credit: Future)

Next, I embarked on a self-clean cycle. This starts by flushing the system with fresh water to get rid of lingering dirt. Almost immediately, the machine paused and asked me to refill the clean water tank. After relaunching, it paused again and asked me to empty the dirty water.

I'd recommend doing both these things before launching a self-clean cycle, and again afterwards, to avoid annoying disruptions. The process uses more than half a tank of fresh water, so it'll almost certainly be required.

Dyson Clean+Wash Hygiene with floorhead dismantled

(Image credit: Future)

Flushing complete, the dock then begins to dry the roller with hot air. This part is surprisingly noisy too, although it only lasts around half an hour. (On other machines I've used, the drying lasts longer but is much quieter, and on some advanced models you have the option of short-and-noisy or long-and-quiet.) Afterwards, I inspected the roller and it was almost completely dry, with no dirt to speak of.

  • Performance score: 4 out of 5

Dyson Clean+Wash Hygiene: Scorecard

Attribute

Notes

Rating

Value

Well-built and solid quality, but little in terms of features to justify the premium price.

3 / 5

Design

Streamlined, lightweight and can lie flat. Slightly fiddly and messy waste disposal setup.

3.5 / 5

Performance

Effective at cleaning solid and liquid spills, even without suction. Self-clean works well too.

4 / 5

How I tested the Dyson Clean+Wash Hygiene

I used the Dyson Clean+Wash Hygiene for a couple of weeks on my hard floors. Aside from day-to-day use, I ran a series of dedicated cleaning tests to see how it coped with different kinds of messes, including liquid-solid spills, sticky and viscous substances. I compared my findings with other hard floor cleaners, and assessed if this model offered strong value for money.

Read more about how we test

  • First reviewed January 2026
I tested Dyson’s impossibly compact new vacuum, and it was a revelation – here’s why
9:30 am |

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

Dyson PencilVac: two-minute review

The Dyson PencilVac looks nothing like any vacuum I've seen before. All the mechanisms – the motor, filters, battery, and even the dust cup – are hidden within the handle, which measures just 1.5 inches / 3.8cm in diameter. That isn't the only unique thing about the PencilVac: the floorhead is also very quirky, with its four, fluffy, conical rollers rotating in opposite directions to lift dirt and buff your floors clean.

In use, it's the most nimble vacuum I've tested. The head appears to hover across the floor; it can be used forwards or backwards, and lie completely flat to the ground. With a bit of practice, you can make the floorhead do figure eights.

Those fluffy rollers are specifically meant for use on hard flooring – there's nothing to agitate carpet fibers to release trapped dirt. The suction power is in line with what I'd expect for a hard floor-specific vacuum, too: a relatively low 55AW of power, when most of the best Dyson vacuums have at least double that.

That power proved plenty to whisk away dog hair and dust from my hard floors, however. I could see it was doing a good job, because lasers installed in the front and back of the floorhead do a stellar job of illuminating any lingering dirt.

There are a couple more compromises for that ultra-streamlined, super-light build. The battery life is rather limited, topping out at 30 minutes per charge. The dust bin is small, too, although air compression helps maximize the amount you can fit into the physical space.

Dyson Pencilvac

(Image credit: Future)

The only issue I think is a genuine mistake on Dyson's part is that the floorhead comes to a slight point, which means it can't sit flush to a wall. This makes it really tricky to get a thorough edge clean. It's extra-annoying here given the emphasis on maneuverability and thoroughness of coverage. This shape is dictated by the tapering rollers, which are designed to prevent hair wrap, but I've found Dyson's Motorbar and Fluffy floorheads do this perfectly well without the need for a tapering roller.

It's a relatively minor complaint in what is a genuinely impressive feat of engineering – and a useful one at that. If you have mostly hard floors and want a nimble, lightweight vacuum that will and highlight hidden dust as you clean, you'll struggle to find something better than this. Read on for my full Dyson PencilVac review.

Dyson PencilVac review: price & availability

  • List price: US TBC / £429.99 / AU$949
  • Available: US TBC / UK 10 Dec / Australia August 2025
  • Launched: Summer 2025

The PencilVac was announced in June 2025 and went on sale in Australia in August. A UK launch followed in December 2025. At time of writing, it isn't yet available in the US. At the list price it costs £429.99 / AU$949 (discounted to AU$798 at time of writing). That's equivalent to around $590 in the US, although actual pricing is unknown.

That puts the PencilVac in the premium price bracket for vacuums. You're paying extra for the unique design here (and a little bit for the Dyson name). In terms of specs such as suction power, runtime, and even special features and accessories, it doesn't compare favorably to other models on the market. However, if you want something ultra-light and maneuverable, there's nothing else like it (for now, at least...). The build quality is excellent, as I'd expect from Dyson.

  • Value for money score: 3.5 out of 5

Dyson PencilVac specs

Weight (no attachments):

2.1lbs / 0.94kg

Weight (with wand and main floorhead):

4lbs / 1.8kg

Bin size:

0.08L

Max runtime:

30 mins

Charge time:

2hrs

Size (H x W x L):

46.5 x 6.3 x 8.9in / 118 x 15.9 x 22.6cm

Max suction:

55AW

Modes:

Eco, Med, Boost

Dock size (H x W x L):

10 x 10 x 11.5in / 25.5 x 25.4 x 29.3cm

Dock cable length:

5.4ft / 1.6m

Dyson PencilVac review: design

  • Lightweight, compact build, with all mechanisms hidden in handle
  • Extremely maneuverable, can be used either way around
  • Small dust cup, but uses air compression to maximize space

The design here is unique. There's no visible battery, motor, filter, or dust cup section. Instead, all that is packed within the wand, which measures 1.5 inches / 3.8cm in diameter. To achieve that, Dyson has had to re-engineer its motor to one that's incredibly compact – the Hyperdymium 140k motor is just 1.1 inches / 2.8cm wide, and hidden entirely within the handle.

The PencilVac in general is very lightweight, at 4lbs / 1.8kg (by comparison, the V8 is 5.5 lbs / 2.5kg with wand and floorhead attached), and extremely nimble.

Dyson Pencilvac

(Image credit: Future)

The battery forms the top section of the wand, and can be removed and swapped. Moving down you'll find the controls – there are just two buttons: an On/Off, and a second button to switch modes (Eco, Med and Boost; there's no auto-adjustment here). A small screen displays the mode you're using and how much time you have left on the clock.

Dyson Pencilvac

(Image credit: Future)

Move down further and you'll find the dust cup behind a transparent casing; this allows you a view as it fills up. Rather unusually, the dust collects at the top of the bin section. Not surprisingly, the capacity is rather limited, at 0.08L (most of Dyson's stick vacuums have a 0.8L bin). However, the PencilVac apparently uses air to squish down the particles, so that they take up as little room as possible. As such, Dyson says that this cup will hold up to five times its physical volume.

To empty the bin, you remove the floorhead and slide the whole casing down. The dust and dirt then shoots out of the bottom. This process is straightforward and works well, although I did find particles got stuck in and around the bin casing.

Dyson Pencilvac

(Image credit: Future)

At the end of the wand you'll find the new Fluffycones floorhead – another unique part of the PencilVac. This a kind of hybrid between the All Floors Cones Sense floorhead introduced with the Dyson V16 Piston Animal, and the Fluffy cleaner head that made its debut with the Dyson V15 Detect.

Instead of having one or two tube-shaped rollers, the Fluffycones head has four conical ones. The tapering shape is designed specifically as a way to deal with long hair: rather than becoming tangled around the brush roll, the strands should make their way down to the small end of the cone where they drop off in a clump, and can be vacuumed up in a single pass. It's an idea that Dyson first used in its Hair screw tool.

Dyson Pencilvac

(Image credit: Future)

However, unlike the All Floors Cones Sense head, the rollers here are entirely covered with soft, fluffy fabric. This is perfect for use on hard floors, where it can get right up close to the flat surface without risking scratches. It isn't well-suited to carpet, though, because there's nothing to agitate the fibers and release embedded dirt.

Dyson has also added a green laser to both the front and back of the Fluffycones floorhead. This is designed to highlight specks of dirt that might otherwise be missed.

The cones extend a little way past the hard plastic casing, and rotate in opposite directions, which means the PencilVac can pick up debris when pushed forwards and when pulled backwards. In fact, because it's basically symmetrical, you can use it either way around.

Dyson Pencilvac

(Image credit: Future)

Since the "wand" contains all the inner mechanisms, the PencilVac isn't quite as versatile as a traditional stick vacuum. You can't remove the wand part and use it like a hand vacuum. However, you can swap out the floorhead for a detail tool. There was one included with my review model: a "Rotating combi-crevice tool" that can be used like a traditional Crevice tool, or with the brush section engaged to sweep up dirt (NB: it doesn't actually rotate).

  • Design score: 4.5 out of 5

Dyson PencilVac review: performance

  • Excellent and very efficient pickup on hard floor, even in Eco mode
  • Not designed for use on carpet, and not sucky enough for ingrained dirt
  • Laser light is effective and useful

So how does the Dyson PencilVac perform in practice? The first thing to emphasize is how comfortable it is to use. Although it takes a moment to get used to the different grip – you hold this cleaner like a broom, rather than like a traditional stick vacuum – it's very light in the hand and maneuvers incredibly well. You can use it forwards or backwards, and the floorhead pivots with ease. With the detail tool attached, it's also super easy to clean up high or in tight spaces.

Unfortunately, the design of the floorhead isn't quite as impressive. Since it comes to a slight point at the front, it can't sit flush to a wall. This was one of my main complaints with the similarly shaped All Floors Cones Sense floorhead, and it's no less annoying here. If you can't approach an edge side-on, it's tricky to achieve a thorough clean. This kind of vacuum should be perfect for the stairs, say... except the reality is that using the PencilVac to clean along all those straight edges is a nightmare.

Dyson Pencilvac

(Image credit: Future)

This isn't the most powerful Dyson vacuum – you're getting a maximum 55AW of suction, where most Dyson stick vacs have double that. Also, the design of the floorhead doesn't lend itself to being ultra-sucky, either. Usually, the casing around the edges would descend to the floor around all four edges, creating a "vacuum" (in the original sense of the word) underneath. That isn't the case here. And because the rollers are soft all over, there's nothing to agitate embedded dust.

None of that is an issue if you're just using the PencilVac on hard flooring, which is its intended use. You don't need a ton of suction to clean hard floors, because all the dust and dirt is sat right there on the surface. But if you're seeking something for carpet, or even a vacuum that will pull the dirt from the cracks and crevices in your floorboards, this isn't it.

Dyson Pencilvac

(Image credit: Future)

To get a more objective view of how well the PencilVac cleans, I ran a series of tests using dry, loose tea (to represent fine particles) and a dry couscous/oat mix (to represent chunky debris) on the large tiles of my kitchen floor. The results were very impressive: the vacuum picked up everything in a single pass, even on the lowest Eco mode. There was minimal pinging of large particles, and the fact that the head cleans from both sides meant I could clear the spillage in half the time.

In general use, the PencilVac was a dream to use in my kitchen. The Fluffycones head seemed to hover across floors, moving smoothly and with minimal effort on my part, whisking away dirt and pet hair as it went. The lasers did a great job of illuminating dust in dingy areas, and I could easily direct the vacuum into tight corners – down the side of a sofa, for example. The only annoyance was that awkwardly angled floorhead.

Although this vacuum isn't really built for carpets, I still ran my standard carpet tests to see how it would cope. It pulled up a decent amount of chunky debris in a single forward pass in Medium mode, although it did flick other bits about.

Medium mode wasn't enough to pull many of the flecks of fine dry tea from my mid-pile carpet, and even after several passes I could still see a shadow where the tea had been sprinkled.

I also decided to try the PencilVac on the canvas-style mat in my kitchen. It pulled up a good amount of debris, and there was less pinging than there had been on the carpet. It's certainly capable of pulling surface dirt from this kind of flooring, and perfectly fine for everyday cleaning.

  • Performance score: 4 out of 5

Dyson PencilVac review: battery life

  • Promises 30 mins in Eco, 20 in Medium, and 5 in Boost
  • 2 hours recharge time
  • Battery removable and swappable

The main compromise you're making for the lightweight, compact build is a smaller battery. Larger, heavier Dyson vacuums last over an hour in their lowest-powered mode, but the runtimes on the PencilVac are much shorter. Dyson promises 30 minutes in Eco mode, 20 in Medium and 5 in the most powerful Boost mode. The battery recharges in a relatively speedy 2 hours.

Medium mode is the one I'd typically default to, and it lasted for 18 minutes at the power (less than Dyson's listed specs). That's really quite short for a middle mode, although it did give me enough time to clean three bathrooms, a large kitchen and utility room, so maybe it isn't too much of an issue. I'd also say that for hard flooring, Eco mode will actually usually be sucky enough for most situations.

I've been testing vacuums for a while now, and with the PencilVac I missed having a dirt-detecting Auto mode, although I can see why it wasn't included here. I'm pleased to see that despite the battery taking a different format, it's still removable and replaceable, which should help with the longevity of the PencilVac overall.

  • Battery life score: 3.5 out of 5

Should you buy the Dyson PencilVac?

Attribute

Notes

Rating

Value

Premium bracket – mainly because of the innovative, unique design.

3.5 / 5

Design

Almost impossibly streamlined and nimble – the only real annoyance is the angled floorhead.

4.5 / 5

Performance

Not designed for carpet, but excellent pickup on hard flooring. Dirt-illuminating lasers are useful and effective.

4 / 5

Battery life

Relatively short (as required by the streamlined design). Recharge is fairly speedy.

3.5 / 5

How I tested the Dyson PencilVac

I used the Dyson PencilVac regularly for a couple of months, to get a general feel for its performance and usefulness. I also ran specific cleaning tests including chunky particles (dry couscous/oat mix) and fine particles (dry, loose tea) on my hard floor, thin mats and carpet. I compared my findings with other vacuums I've tested, and assessed if it offered strong value for money.

Read more about how we test vacuum cleaners

  • First reviewed November 2025
I tested the Nutribullet Flex portable blender: a lightweight, convenient companion for smoothies on the go
4:06 pm | January 20, 2026

Author: admin | Category: Computers Gadgets Home Juicers & Blenders Small Appliances | Comments: Off

Nutribullet Flex Portable Blender: one-minute review

Nutribullet has cemented itself as a trusted name in the kitchen appliance space, with its blenders and juicers among the best in the market. The Nutribullet Flex Portable Blender offers this same quality in a more lightweight package, allowing for on-the-go blending.

The Nutribullet Flex is an upgraded version of the Nutribullet Portable Blender, adding a few welcome new features, including increased capacity and clear charge indicators. As such, it comes in slightly more than its predecessor, while still being affordable at under $100.

Nutribullet Flex blender on kitchen counter

(Image credit: Future)

Considering the quality of this personal blender, it offers excellent value for money for those seeking a convenient, portable blender that produces optimal results with cold beverages and smoothies. Its lightweight design means you can easily disassemble the appliance and take it with you to work, the gym, or on vacation, while its rechargeability means you won’t be searching high and low for a plug socket.

Each of its four charges allows for approximately eight blend cycles (each lasts 30 seconds), meaning you can quickly mix your food and transport it with ease, using the convenient carry loop attached to its lid. If you’re looking for a personal blender that prioritises convenience, speed, and cold beverages, this is an excellent choice.

Nutribullet Flex blender being held with carry loop

(Image credit: Future)

However, this blender lacks versatility and can struggle with some ingredients or recipes, so you’re best to stick to cold drinks and smoothies with this one. Its portability is always negatively impacted by its volume, which could restrict where you can use it, and the lack of storage for its sharp blades.

Nutribullet Flex Portable Blender: price and availability

  • $69.99 / £59.99 / AU$99.95 at Nutribullet
  • Available at third-party retailers, such as Amazon, Decathlon, and Target

Priced at $69.99 / £59.99 / AU$99.95, the Nutribullet Flex Portable Blender offers great quality for an affordable price. And, what’s more, we regularly see discounts on this appliance at Nutribullet and third-party retailers.

While it doesn’t offer as much versatility as many of the best blenders on the market, if you’re looking for a portable blender for cold drinks and smoothies, without breaking the $100 mark, this is a great choice.

For those who want to keep under the $50 mark, however, the Nutribullet Magic Bullet Portable Blender ($39.99 / £39.99 / A$79.95) offers a solid alternative. If you don’t mind splashing out a bit more for a more powerful, convenient on-the-go blender, we highly recommend the Nutribullet Flip ($99.99, roughly £80 / AU$150), especially if you intend to make a lot of frozen or icy beverages.

  • Value score: 4.5/5

Nutribullet Flex Portable Blender: specifications

Review model

NBPB09220_250721

Accessories

USB-C charging cable (500mm / 19.7in)

Smart control

No

Rated power

100W

Capacity

590ml cup (400ml max)

Time range

Each blending cycle lasts 30 seconds

Dimensions

3.3in (D) x 11.4in (H) x 3.3in (W) / 83mm (D) x 290mm (H) x 83mm (W)

Weight

Approx. 1.9lbs / 850g

Dishwasher safe

Yes, top rack

Nutribullet Flex Portable Blender: design

  • Rechargeable, with plug-in option
  • Tight seals prevent leaks
  • Carry loop on sip lid for on-the-go drinks
  • No storage for blade block

Out of the box, the Nutribullet Flex Portable Blender comes with a motor base, a 590ml cup, a sip lid featuring a carry loop for on-the-go use, and a blade block. While our model came in black, Nutribullet offers several colour options, including green and grey.

The blender is straightforward to assemble and takes up minimal space, making it ideal for smaller kitchens or communal work/living spaces. Disassembling the appliance also requires minimal effort; its parts are fairly compact, so they easily fit into an average-sized backpack or gym bag. Our only concern is a lack of storage for the blade block, which is sharp. Including a small hub for this could make the appliance safer to transport.

This portable blender’s 590ml cup offers enough space to make a single smoothie or drink for one, though it's worth noting that the 'max' line on ours was at 400ml, meaning, in reality, that’s the capacity you have to work with. The accompanying sip lid screws snuggly onto the cup, preventing any leakages, while its secure carry loop allows you to carry your finished drink in hand as soon as your blending is complete.

The blade block fits tightly onto the bottom of the cup and is locked into the motor base with a satisfying click. Again, we had no issues with leakages throughout our testing. The motor base has a minimalistic LED display, featuring a large power button. This simply requires one press to turn on. When turned on, a clockwise light ring appears around the button, confirming it's ready to be operated. Below this button are four LED lights, indicating the amount of charge the blender currently has.

The Nutribullet Flex Portable Blender is rechargeable, meaning it largely works wirelessly. A USB-C cable for charging is included, which plugs into a discrete port at the back of the motor base. However, no adapter is included. While you can use the appliance plugged in, it must have at least one charge (one white light) for this to work, and operating the blender plugged in pauses charging during the blend cycle. In addition, the provided cable is only 50cm long, restricting where you can place the appliance.

We found it took approximately 50 minutes for one light (charge) to appear, and the blender offered approximately eight 30-second blending cycles per charge. This does, however, seem to be variable and can depend on what you’re blending and if you’re overheating the appliance.

This blender’s lightweight design makes it fairly easy to transport, but you may want to consider where you use it. Nutribullet products are typically quite loud, and while the Flex Portable Blender is a bit quieter (depending on its use), we found it averaged a decibel reading of 82, roughly equivalent to the volume of traffic. So, while you can take it to work or the gym, your colleagues and peers may not appreciate it.

  • Design score: 4.5/5

Nutribullet Flex Portable Blender: performance

  • Best suited to beverages
  • Blends smoothies consistently well
  • Struggles with certain solid ingredients
  • 30-second blend cycle may not be enough

We began our testing of the Nutribullet Flex Portable Blender with Nutribullet’s own Banana Kale smoothie recipe. Due to the size of the appliance, we had to half the recipe to ensure it fit the cup. This blender comes with a small leaflet instructing you on how to build a smoothie optimally, in other words, the order to add the ingredients. It’s a lifesaver for those new to smoothie making, and blenders, too, for that matter.

After adding the ingredients and securing the cup, we pressed the power button, which triggered a 30-second blend cycle – which you can stop at any time by pressing the button again. The results were impressive: the consistency was thick and creamy, but smooth. There were no lumps of unblended fruit or veg in the cup or under the blades.

Next, we used one of the recipes Nutribullet recommends for this appliance. Following the included QR code takes you to the Nutribullet app, which allows you to input your appliance type and dietary requirements and suggests recipes based on your needs. The app itself is a bit of a pain; it signed us out every time we closed it, and wouldn’t let us sign in again without creating a new account. The recipes, too, were limited to fewer than 10, primarily smoothies and lattes.

We tried the Strawberry Banana Smoothie, composed of almond milk, ice, chia seeds, half a banana, strawberries, and vanilla extract. We again built the smoothie as suggested, but found that – despite being recommended for the Portable Blender – the ingredients exceeded the max line. This is potentially because they’re for the non-Flex version of this device, but this isn’t specified in the app (nor is Flex specifically a choice when choosing your device). As a result, we had to remove a large amount of ice for the blender to function safely.

The results, again, were excellent. However, we did find a small lump of unblended banana in the final product, and some of our chia seeds had stuck to the side of the cup in a clump. Overall, this didn’t affect the final product and, again, there was no unblended residue stuck under the blades.

As part of our standard control testing for blenders, we don’t simply test smoothies, however. Nutribullet describes the Flex Portable as being for “on-the-go lifestyles,” and while that suggests it's primarily for beverages, it doesn’t specify it’s only for smoothies and cold drinks.

We tested Nutribullet’s hummus recipe, again halving the ingredients. While the bottom portion of the ingredients blended fairly well after one cycle, the top remained untouched. The blender struggled considerably with the thickness of the hummus, slowing it to a standstill at one point, despite our attempts to loosen the mixture. Similarly, the appliance struggled with ice.

We wanted to use our ice control tests to check the chopping abilities of the blade. Again, the bottom portion was chopped, but the top remained untouched.

Nutribullet Flex blender containing ice

(Image credit: Future)

Surprisingly, what did work well was mayonnaise, another of our controls. This recipe applies more to a standard blender, as it requires adding oil while the device is on. We, instead, stopped the blender short of its cycle to add more before blending further each time. The result was actually nice, well-blended mayonnaise.

While the Nutribullet Flex Portable Blender is capable of mixing some non-beverage recipes, it’s not recommended. This isn’t necessarily a big drawback for this product, which is likely aimed at those making beverages on-the-go rather than quick mayo for your lunchtime sandwich.

What is worth noting is its struggle with more solid, thicker ingredients and its lack of versatility. If you are in the market for a portable blender that focuses on making cold drinks and does that well, but doesn’t offer the capabilities of competitor products, this is an excellent choice.

  • Performance score: 4.5/5

Should you buy the Nutribullet Flex Portable Blender?

Nutribullet Flex Portable Blender score card

Attribute

Notes

Score

Value

This blender offers great value for an affordable price, even if it doesn't offer a lot of versatility.

4.5/5

Design

This appliance's lightweight design and carry loop make it easy to take your drinks on the go, but we wish there was a storage hub for its blade and it wasn't as loud.

4.5/5

Performance

This blender excels when making smoothies and cold drinks, but isn't necessarily suited to other recipes.

4.5/5

Buy it if

You want to make cold beverages on the go

The Nutribullet Flex Portable Blender is lightweight and has fairly compact parts, so it should easily fit in your work or gym bag, making it convenient to transport day-to-day. What’s more, thanks to the carry loop on its sip lid, you can make your drink, detach the cup from the base, and immediately take it to-go.

You want a high quality, affordable blender

Nutribullet is a top-of-the-range brand, and this blender offers the quality you would expect – without an eye-watering price tag. If you want a quality portable blender for under $100, this is a great choice.

It's for personal use

This appliance has enough capacity for one drink or smoothie at a time. So, it’s an ideal size for those looking for a portable blender for solo use.

Don't buy it if

You want versatility

As we’ve said above, this blender is great at making cold beverages, but lacks versatility when it comes to other recipes. If you want a blender with more options, it’s worth considering an alternative.

You want to use it in quieter environments

At an average of 82 decibels, this portable blender is quieter than some Nutribullet products we’ve tested, but still pretty loud. As such, it may not be as suited to quieter environments, like the workplace.

I tested Blink’s new Mini 2K+ camera, and was stunned by its high-resolution picture quality and ultra-compact design
2:50 pm |

Author: admin | Category: Computers Gadgets Home Home Security Smart Home | Tags: , | Comments: Off

Blink Mini 2K+: two-minute review

First launched in 2020, it’s fair to say that the Blink Mini has seen a fair few improvements over the last five years. Initially just a compact, bog-standard 1080p security camera, it was upgraded in 2024 with colour night vision and outdoor functionality as the Blink Mini 2 before receiving its current make-over as a 2K camera (2,560 x 1,440 pixels) in September 2025.

Available in black or white, it can be bought either individually or as a two-pack. We tested the two-pack version in white which currently retails on Amazon for the very reasonable price of £69.99 (about $100 / AU$140). Alternatively, you can buy it as a single unit in both colours for £39.99 (about $50 / AU$80). Whereas many of Blink’s products are battery-operated, making them particularly flexible for installation, the Blink Mini must be plugged into the mains.

However, because it doesn’t require a battery it does mean the camera is exceptionally small, around 2 x 2 inches / 5 x 5cm for the camera itself and standing around 3 inches / 8cm tall including the base. It’s also very lightweight so it’s easy to move from one part of the house to another if, say, you want to monitor a particular area of your property while you’re away on holiday.

As with most security cameras these days, installation requires downloading the camera’s app onto your smartphone and adding the device using the QR code on the back of the product. Alternatively, you can type in the serial code into your phone instead. Unlike more advanced models, the Blink Mini only works on the 2.4GHz Wi-Fi network (it's not compatible with the 5GHz frequency). However, this wasn’t a major issue.

Two Blink Mini 2 security cameras in box

(Image credit: Future)

You can use the Blink Mini 2K+ camera on its own via the app, or as part of a much larger network with other Blink devices, including video doorbells and indoor/outdoor security cameras. Not only does the Blink Mini 2K+ come with its own built-in siren, it can also be used as an indoor chime for the Blink video doorbell which, somewhat annoyingly, doesn’t have its own plug-in chime accessory.

In addition, the device automatically connects to Amazon Alexa so you can view footage via the Alexa app/TVs equipped with Fire TV or get notifications sent to Alexa-compatible devices, such as Amazon Echo smart speakers.

As with many home security devices, full functionality, such as the ability to filter motion alerts by person or vehicle (known as Blink Smart Detection) does require a subscription. However, the good news is that Blink’s subscriptions are half the price of Ring’s subscription costs, starting at £2.50 per month (compared to £4.99 per month for Ring).

Blink Mini 2K+: subscription options

Blink Basic Plan. Cost: £2.50 (about $3.50 / AU$5) per month or £24.99 (about $35 / AU$50) year. Covers: one camera. Features: cloud storage (30 days), person/vehicle detection (Blink Smart Detection), and video editing between devices (Blink Moments).

Blink Plus Plan. Cost: £8 (about $10 / AU$16) per month or £80 (about $100 / AU$160) year. Covers: Unlimited cameras at one location. Features: All Basic features plus 10% off Blink devices and extended warranty.

Local storage (no subscription). Cost: free. Requires: Sync Module 2 (£34.99 - about $50 / AU$70) and a USB flash drive. Features: saves clips locally. Note: Blink Smart Detection/Blink Moments is not available with this option.

Blink Mini 2K+: price and availability

  • How much does it cost? $49 / £39.99 / AU$89 each (£70 for two), $US49 ($89 for two), AU$69 ($130 for two)
  • When is it available? Available since September 2025
  • Where is it available? UK / US / Australia

US company Blink has earned a reputation for its reasonably priced home security devices, and the Mini 2K+ is certainly no exception. Whereas most cameras will set you back around $130 / £100 / $200 each, you can actually buy a two pack of Blink Mini 2K+ cameras for less than that price.

It’s certainly a pretty good deal, but as ever with consumer electronics these days, nothing is ever that simple. Sure, if you just want the basic features, such as motion alerts and two-way audio communication, then that is all you have to pay. But if you want the full functionality that the camera offers, including Blink Smart Detection and 30 days of recordings stored in the cloud, you will have to commit to a monthly subscription plan.

Alternatively, if you only need the subscription to store video clips, then you can always invest in the Blink Sync Module 2, which allows you to record and store up to 256GB of video clips on a connected USB flash drive. However, this will cost another £39.99 (about $50 / AU$80), plus the cost of the USB flash drive.

Finally, with an IP65 water resistance rating, the Blink Mini2K+ can be used outdoors, but only if you buy the 4m Blink Weather Resistant Power Adaptor, costing another £9 (about $12 / AU$20). Like the cameras, this is available in either white or black.

  • Value score: 4.5/5

Blink Mini 2K+: design

  • Extremely compact design
  • Built-in spotlight
  • Mains-powered only

The first thing you notice about the Blink Mini 2K+ is just how small it really is. Standing just an inch tall on a stand that can be positioned to virtually any angle, it certainly lives up to its 'mini' moniker.

Back of Blink Mini 2 camera with charging cable

(Image credit: Future)

Two colours are available – white or black (we tested the white) – and despite its bargain-basement price tag the Mini 2K+ feels like a classy, well-built security device. At the rear is a USB-C socket while provided with the camera is a 6.5ft / 2m USB-A to USB-C lead and a plug. Alternatively, it’s possible to buy a 13ft / 4m length of weather-resistant cable with power adaptor for outdoor use.

Once the Blink app is downloaded you can simply add the camera to your set up using the QR code on the back of the device where you’ll also find the speaker. This provides voice instructions during set up and can also be used as a chime for any connected Blink video doorbells.

Blink Mini 2 camera on table

(Image credit: Future)

Turn the camera around and in the centre there’s the 2K lens (2,560 x 1,440 pixels) while underneath is the built-in microphone. Also on board is a blue light that comes on during recording and at the top of the camera you’ll find the built-in spotlight for providing coloured images at night. Like the blue recording light, this can be switched on and off via the app, or set to come on automatically when the camera senses motion.

Blink Mini 2K+: performance

  • 2K resolution
  • Clear two-way audio
  • Decent color night vision

When it comes to performance, the Blink Mini 2K+ certainly offers a big improvement over its 1080p predecessor (at the time of writing this original model is available on Amazon so cheaply) Where you really notice the difference is when using the 4x digital pinch-to-zoom feature on your smartphone. With the 1080p camera, images soon become pixilated as you zoom in. However, with this latest 2K model you can home right in and see the detail in, say, a face or an item of clothing.

Another massive improvement is in night vision. Whereas the previous model only offered traditional IR (infrared) recording in black and white, this model boasts a surprisingly powerful built-in spotlight for color recording. During my tests, the spotlight illuminated the hallway when coming home on during the evening, producing vivid colored images on recorded footage. Audio, too, has been improved with two-way talk now filtering out background noise, such as traffic, so you can hear voices more clearly.

Users with a Blink video doorbell can set multiple Blink Mini 2K+ cameras as a chime so if someone presses the doorbell you can hear it in several rooms if you so choose. That’s particularly handy as Blink’s video doorbell doesn’t come with its own plug-in door chime, unlike models from other companies such as Ring.

Finally, you can also link the Blink Mini 2K+ to Amazon Alexa to receive announcements such as ‘Motion detected at the office’ via your Echo speakers or display the video feed on your Echo Show. However, as Blink is now owned by Amazon, the device doesn’t work with rival platforms such as Google Home or Apple Home.

  • Performance score: 4.5/5

Should you buy the Blink Mini 2K+?

Blink Mini 2K+ score card

Attribute

Notes

Score

Value

Offering excellent value for money, you can buy two of these mini security cameras for the price of one from another brand such as fellow Amazon stablemate, Ring.

4.5/5

Design

Despite being very small, standing just a few centimetres tall, the Blink Mini 2K+ feels well-built and can be mounted just about anywhere indoors (even outdoors with a weather-resistant power adaptor).

4.5/5

Performance

Boasting 2K video resolution, the Blink Mini 2K+ also offers improved night vision over its predecessor thanks to the inclusion of a strong spotlight.

4.5/5

Average rating

The Blink Mini 2K+ is a great choice if you’re looking for a small and flexible security camera but don’t have much of a budget. The only slight fly in the ointment is you have to pay a small monthly subscription for full functionality.

4.5/5

Blink Mini 2K+: also consider

Blink Mini 2K+

Ring Outdoor Cam Pro

Eufy 4K S330 Security Camera

Subscription price

From £2.50 a month

From £4.99 a month

None

Resolution

2K (2,560 x 1,440 pixels)

4K (3,840 x 2,160 pixels)

4K (3,840 x 2,160 pixels)

Field of view

138 degrees diagonal

140 degrees horizontal

360-degree view (pan and tilt)

Network connection

Wi-Fi (2.4GHz)

Wi-Fi (2.4GHz/5GHz)

Wi-Fi/4G

Audio

Two-way audio

Two-way audio

Two-way audio

Power

Mains (USB-C)

Mains

Battery

Hardware price

£39

£179

£189 (with solar panel)

If you're not quite sure whether the Blink Mini 2K+ is the best home security camera for you, here are two other options to consider:

Ring Outdoor Cam Pro

The Outdoor Cam Pro represents a leap into high-resolution surveillance for Ring. However, the high levels of performance come at a fairly hefty price, especially when you factor in the subscription plan.

Read our full Ring Outdoor Cam Pro reviewView Deal

Eufy 4K S330 Security Camera

An extremely innovative battery and solar-powered camera, the Eufy can be used with the supplied 4G SIM card to capture recordings, making it ideal for those who live in areas with poor Wi-Fi / broadband.

Read our full Eufy 4K S330 Security Camera reviewView Deal

Should you buy the Blink Mini 2K+?

Buy it if

You're on a budget

At £39.99 (or £70 for two), this is the most affordable way to get high-quality 2K surveillance.

You want a flexible solution

The compact design and pivot stand mean you can easily move it from room to room.

You own a Blink video doorbell

The Blink Mini 2K+ can serve as an indoor chime for the Blink video doorbell.

Don't buy it if

You want a wire-free home

The Blink Mini 2K+ needs to be connected to the mains at all times via the USB-C to USB-A cable provided.

You want advanced features for free

Unfortunately, you will have to pay a monthly fee if you want Blink Smart Detection (which distinguishes between vehicles and people) and Blink Moments (which edits footage together from multiple Blink cameras shot at the same time).

How I tested the Blink Mini 2K+ security camera

  • I used a pair of cameras in several rooms of the house for three weeks
  • I set them up myself using the QR code provided on the back of each model
  • I linked them to other devices including a Blink video doorbell and several Amazon Echo smart speakers

Testing the two cameras over the Christmas/New Year period gave me the ideal opportunity to see how they responded to visitors coming to the house. Throughout this time one of the cameras was focused on my hallway facing the front door with the spotlight set to come on whenever motion was detected. It also served as a chime for my Blink video doorbell, which I could hear throughout the house.

he other camera was moved between several rooms, including the kitchen and downstairs as well as upstairs rooms we use as offices. However, the cameras weren’t used outside as the units provided didn’t come with the necessary waterproof power adaptor.

Lavazza’s A Modo Mio Deséa makes delicious espresso and a decent cappuccino – if you use the right milk
5:00 pm | January 18, 2026

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

Lavazza A Mio Modo Deséa: one-minute review

The Lavazza A Modo Mio Deséa is a compact capsule coffee maker with optional milk-frothing for cappuccinos and macchiatos, plus hot and cold milk foam. It's excellent at the fundamentals, and Lavazza's A Modo Mio pods are superb – affordably priced and packed with great quality coffee, with no flavored or sweetened options.

The Deséa is simple to use, as you'd expect from a capsule coffee maker, and is exceptionally quiet. During the testing period, it reached a maximum of only 50dB during brewing, making it the quietest machine I've tested to date.

It uses the same milk-frothing system as the Lavazza Assoluta (an automatic coffee maker that adapts its own settings to suit your chosen beans). This comprises a large glass cup with a lid containing a rotating electric whisk and a steam pipe. It works reasonably well with full-fat dairy milk, but in tests it produced very little foam when used with oat milk. This was very different to my experience with the Assoluta, so I suspect the much smaller Deséa may not be able to generate the same level of steam pressure.

Overall, it's a likeable little espresso machine that would be a good option for small kitchens, particularly if you're the lone coffee-drinker. The price of its capsules won't make you sweat, even if you enjoy several cups a day.

Lavazza A Mio Modo Deséa: specifications

Name

Lavazza A Modo Mio Smeg

Type

Capsule coffee maker

Dimensions (H x W x D)

11 x 5.7 x 15 inches / 280 x 145 x 380mm

Weight

9.9lbs / 4.5kg

Water tank capacity

37oz / 1.1 liters

Lavazza A Mio Modo Deséa: price and availability

  • Similar price to other capsule coffee makers with milk foaming
  • Available in Europe and Australia, but not currently sold in the US
  • A Modo Mio coffee pods are much cheaper than alternatives

The Lavazza A Modo Mio Deséa has a list price of £249 / AU$349 (about $330), but is often available at a discount. For example, at the time of writing, it could be found on sale for £199 in the UK in Lavazza’s online store, and $261.75 in Australia. Currently, this model isn't available in the US.

That price is about standard for a capsule coffee maker with a built-in milk frother. For comparison, the De'Longhi Lattissima One is currently priced at $429.99 / £259.99 / AU$519.

What sets the Deséa apart from the competition is the price of its capsules. A pack of 16 Lavazza A Modo Mio capsules retails for £6.45 / AU$15 (about $9), and the cost per drink drops significantly if you buy a bundle instead. That makes the A Modo Mio capsules some of the cheapest around, and much less expensive than Nespresso Vertuo or Tassimo alternatives.

A Modo Mio pods offer up lots of choice when it comes to coffee blends, roasts and terroir, but you won’t find any hot chocolate or coffee with added flavors. Your options are espresso, espresso, and more espresso. During testing, I found the freshly ground and vacuum-sealed beans excellent – but note that if your drink of choice is pumpkin spice, you won’t find it here.

  • Value score: 4.5/5

Lavazza A Mio Modo Deséa: design

  • Compact and smart-looking
  • Includes milk-frothing system
  • Milk frother only works with supplied mug
  • Dishwasher-safe components

The Lavazza A Modo Mio Deséa is available in black, white, cream and a deep burgundy (different retailers keep different colors in stock). It has a robust-feeling, glossy case with the company logo embossed on the side, and although it isn't quite as sleek as the Lavazza A Modo Mio Smeg, it certainly isn't a slouch in the looks department. Gloss finishes can sometimes be a magnet for fingerprints, but I was pleased to find that this wasn’t an issue with the cream-colored model I tested.

The Deséa is particularly compact, even for a capsule coffee maker. At just 11 x 5.7 x 15 inches / 280 x 145 x 380mm (H x W x D), it will easily tuck away into the smallest of kitchens – and can be stashed in a cupboard when not in use (provided it’s properly cleaned and dried beforehand). Despite this, it has a larger water tank than most pod coffee machines, holding 37oz / 1.1 liters. That’s because this isn’t just an espresso machine; it can also foam milk for lattes and cappuccinos using high-pressure steam.

The Deséa has an unusual milk-frothing system that uses a special glass mug with a lid containing a steam tube and a whisk. It's the same system used by the Lavazza Assoluta I tested a couple of months ago, and although it isn't as effective as a proper steam wand, it works reasonably well – provided you use the right type of milk.

However, bear in mind that you can only make milk-based drinks in the glass mug; the special lid doesn't fit onto other cups. Unless you buy a second (they are $22.70 / £15 each), you and your partner won't be able to enjoy lattes as the same time.

Most removable components (including the cup, drip tray and used pod container) can be safely cleaned in the top rack of your dishwasher, although they take only a moment to wash by hand, too.

The drip tray can be detached and positioned higher up to avoid splashes if you’re using an espresso cup, which is a welcome touch. Used pods drop into a bin that can be accessed by removing the tray and pulling out a drawer on the front of the machine.

  • Design score: 4/5

Lavazza A Mio Modo Deséa: performance

  • Produces excellent espresso
  • Extensive drinks menu
  • Milk system doesn't work as well as a steam wand
  • Performs better with dairy than plant-based milk

The Lavazza A Modo Mio Deséa has a cleverly designed control panel that displays the different menu options depending on the cup you’re using. Place an ordinary cup of any size under the dispenser and you’ll see options for brewing an espresso, long espresso (lungo), and long coffee. Push the milk-foaming cup into place and the options for milk-based drinks will light up. The full menu includes:

  • Espresso
  • Long espresso (lungo)
  • Long coffee (Americano)
  • Cappuccino (regular or large)
  • Latte macchiato
  • Hot milk foam
  • Cold milk foam

You can adjust the volume of your coffee pour, which is a nice feature that you won’t find on many capsule coffee machines. All the drink size options are customizable; just hold the appropriate button on the control panel for three seconds to begin dispensing, then press it again once you have the desired volume. When you hear two beeps, you know the new setting has been saved successfully, ready to use next time.

Like the Lavazza A Modo Mio Smeg coffee maker I tested recently, the Deséa brews excellent, well-rounded espresso in just a few seconds, and does so extremely quietly. Using a decibel meter, I measured an average volume of 50dB when extracting coffee, which is about the same as the murmur of a quiet office (although Lavazza claims the volume doesn't exceed 43dB).

After your coffee has brewed and the lights on the front panel have re-illuminated, lift the lid and after a second or two you’ll hear the used pod drop into the collection bin.

The milk system is a little louder when injecting steam, reaching a maximum of 70dB for a couple of seconds as it incorporates air, but it's quieter than the squeal and rip of a manual steam wand, and the whisk is whisper-quiet.

When you want to use the milk system, take a good look at the fill lines on the side of the glass cup that indicate how much milk to add for different drink sizes. Add too much milk and it risks splashing; too little and it won’t foam properly.

During tests, the Deséa didn’t fare very well when texturizing oat milk, which was very different from my experience with the Lavazza Assoluta. Despite the two machines using the same cup-and-lid system, the Assoluta produced inches of creamy oat foam, whereas the Deséa heated the milk (a little too much – it reached 70ºC, whereas the optimum for coffee is about 60-65ºC), but didn’t actually create any froth, even with the "extra foam" option selected.

Lavazza A Modo Mio Deséa coffee maker dispensing espresso into milk to make cappuccino

The milk system works much better with dairy than plant-based milk (Image credit: Future)

The Deséa’s milk system worked much better with full-fat dairy milk, although I found that it still didn’t produce quite as much foam as the Assoluta. This might be because the smaller Deséa can’t generate as much pressure and inject as much steam into the liquid.

The Deséa can also prepare cold milk foam. To do this, add your cup of milk, drop in a coffee pod if required, hold the temperature +/- button on the front of the machine until the foam and latte lights turn blue, then press the one you want. Again, during my tests this worked better with dairy milk. It’s a nice feature, but bear in mind that the Deséa can only brew hot coffee, so if you want to make a cold latte then you’ll need to add a shot of hot espresso when the milk is ready, which will raise the temperature. You might like to add a few ice cubes to the drink once it’s made (but not before, as they could damage the whisk).

Cappuccino prepared using Lavazza A Modo Mio Deséa coffee maker

The whisk produces large bubbles rather than fine microfoam, so the froth tends to break down relatively quickly (Image credit: Future)

Finally, a word on waste. Lavazza’s A Modo Mio capsules are compostable, but you can’t simply toss them into your household waste or add them to a compost pile. They have to be processed in an industrial facility; currently Terracycle is the only service that offers this in the UK. There’sno home collection or postage system as there is with plastic and foil coffee pods, so you’ll need to gather your used capsules and take them to a drop-off point. If there isn’t one near you, you can apply to create one.

  • Performance score: 3.5/5

Should you buy the Lavazza A Mio Modo Deséa?

Lavazza A Mio Modo Deséa score card

Attribute

Notes

Score

Value

Similar price to other capsule coffee makers with milk frother, but the pods are much cheaper.

4.5/5

Design

Compact and smart-looking, though milk system only works with supplied mug.

4/5

Performance

Doesn't foam milk as well as a steam wand, but espresso is consistently excellent and the whole machine is very quiet in use.

3.5/5

Buy it if

You have a compact kitchen

There aren't many coffee machines this small with a milk-frothing system, and the Deséa is light enough to easily move around your home and tuck into a cupboard when it isn't in use.

You're a frequent coffee-drinker

Other capsule coffee makers may be cheaper to buy, but the pods can be very expensive, particularly if you drink several cups a day. Lavazza's A Modo Mio pods are super affordable, and packed with great-quality coffee.

Don't buy it if

You prefer plant-based milk

The Deséa's milk system works best with full-fat dairy, which is true of many automatic coffee makers. If you want to stick with oat or soya, you might be better choosing the Lavazza A Modo Mio Jolie, which arrives with a standalone milk frother.

You want to make a round of coffees

The milk system only works with Lavazza's own mug; you can't fit the lid onto your own favorite cup. Again, a more basic Lavazza A Modo Mio machine and a separate milk frother would be a great alternative.

Lavazza A Mio Modo Deséa: also consider

If you're not sure whether the Lavazza A Modo Mio Deséa is the best coffee maker for you, here are two other options for your shortlist:

De'Longhi Lattissima One

This smart coffee maker uses Nespresso Original pods (the ones shaped like top hats) and has a milk system that produces foam more like a conventional steam wand. You can use any cup and the froth is thick; but the capsules cost more than A Modo Mio ones.

Read our full De'Longhi Lattissima One review

De'Longhi Dedica Duo

Want to move on from capsules? This little manual espresso machine costs about the same as the Deséa and is a great introduction to fresh speciality coffee. It has an excellent steam wand as well.

Read our full De'Longhi Dedica Duo reviewView Deal

How I tested the Lavazza A Mio Modo Deséa

I used the Lavazza A Mio Deséa for two weeks, making at least two drinks per day and using all of the available drink options (including hot and cold milk foam). I used it with dairy and oat milk, both of which were freshly purchased and chilled. I used two different types of Lavazza A Modo Mio coffee capsules, with different intensities.

I measured the temperature of the prepared milk with a food thermometer, and used a decibel meter app to measure the machine's volume.

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

Lavazza’s A Modo Mio Deséa makes delicious espresso and a decent cappuccino – if you use the right milk
5:00 pm |

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

Lavazza A Mio Modo Deséa: one-minute review

The Lavazza A Modo Mio Deséa is a compact capsule coffee maker with optional milk-frothing for cappuccinos and macchiatos, plus hot and cold milk foam. It's excellent at the fundamentals, and Lavazza's A Modo Mio pods are superb – affordably priced and packed with great quality coffee, with no flavored or sweetened options.

The Deséa is simple to use, as you'd expect from a capsule coffee maker, and is exceptionally quiet. During the testing period, it reached a maximum of only 50dB during brewing, making it the quietest machine I've tested to date.

It uses the same milk-frothing system as the Lavazza Assoluta (an automatic coffee maker that adapts its own settings to suit your chosen beans). This comprises a large glass cup with a lid containing a rotating electric whisk and a steam pipe. It works reasonably well with full-fat dairy milk, but in tests it produced very little foam when used with oat milk. This was very different to my experience with the Assoluta, so I suspect the much smaller Deséa may not be able to generate the same level of steam pressure.

Overall, it's a likeable little espresso machine that would be a good option for small kitchens, particularly if you're the lone coffee-drinker. The price of its capsules won't make you sweat, even if you enjoy several cups a day.

Lavazza A Mio Modo Deséa: specifications

Name

Lavazza A Modo Mio Smeg

Type

Capsule coffee maker

Dimensions (H x W x D)

11 x 5.7 x 15 inches / 280 x 145 x 380mm

Weight

9.9lbs / 4.5kg

Water tank capacity

37oz / 1.1 liters

Lavazza A Mio Modo Deséa: price and availability

  • Similar price to other capsule coffee makers with milk foaming
  • Available in Europe and Australia, but not currently sold in the US
  • A Modo Mio coffee pods are much cheaper than alternatives

The Lavazza A Modo Mio Deséa has a list price of £249 / AU$349 (about $330), but is often available at a discount. For example, at the time of writing, it could be found on sale for £199 in the UK in Lavazza’s online store, and $261.75 in Australia. Currently, this model isn't available in the US.

That price is about standard for a capsule coffee maker with a built-in milk frother. For comparison, the De'Longhi Lattissima One is currently priced at $429.99 / £259.99 / AU$519.

What sets the Deséa apart from the competition is the price of its capsules. A pack of 16 Lavazza A Modo Mio capsules retails for £6.45 / AU$15 (about $9), and the cost per drink drops significantly if you buy a bundle instead. That makes the A Modo Mio capsules some of the cheapest around, and much less expensive than Nespresso Vertuo or Tassimo alternatives.

A Modo Mio pods offer up lots of choice when it comes to coffee blends, roasts and terroir, but you won’t find any hot chocolate or coffee with added flavors. Your options are espresso, espresso, and more espresso. During testing, I found the freshly ground and vacuum-sealed beans excellent – but note that if your drink of choice is pumpkin spice, you won’t find it here.

  • Value score: 4.5/5

Lavazza A Mio Modo Deséa: design

  • Compact and smart-looking
  • Includes milk-frothing system
  • Milk frother only works with supplied mug
  • Dishwasher-safe components

The Lavazza A Modo Mio Deséa is available in black, white, cream and a deep burgundy (different retailers keep different colors in stock). It has a robust-feeling, glossy case with the company logo embossed on the side, and although it isn't quite as sleek as the Lavazza A Modo Mio Smeg, it certainly isn't a slouch in the looks department. Gloss finishes can sometimes be a magnet for fingerprints, but I was pleased to find that this wasn’t an issue with the cream-colored model I tested.

The Deséa is particularly compact, even for a capsule coffee maker. At just 11 x 5.7 x 15 inches / 280 x 145 x 380mm (H x W x D), it will easily tuck away into the smallest of kitchens – and can be stashed in a cupboard when not in use (provided it’s properly cleaned and dried beforehand). Despite this, it has a larger water tank than most pod coffee machines, holding 37oz / 1.1 liters. That’s because this isn’t just an espresso machine; it can also foam milk for lattes and cappuccinos using high-pressure steam.

The Deséa has an unusual milk-frothing system that uses a special glass mug with a lid containing a steam tube and a whisk. It's the same system used by the Lavazza Assoluta I tested a couple of months ago, and although it isn't as effective as a proper steam wand, it works reasonably well – provided you use the right type of milk.

However, bear in mind that you can only make milk-based drinks in the glass mug; the special lid doesn't fit onto other cups. Unless you buy a second (they are $22.70 / £15 each), you and your partner won't be able to enjoy lattes as the same time.

Most removable components (including the cup, drip tray and used pod container) can be safely cleaned in the top rack of your dishwasher, although they take only a moment to wash by hand, too.

The drip tray can be detached and positioned higher up to avoid splashes if you’re using an espresso cup, which is a welcome touch. Used pods drop into a bin that can be accessed by removing the tray and pulling out a drawer on the front of the machine.

  • Design score: 4/5

Lavazza A Mio Modo Deséa: performance

  • Produces excellent espresso
  • Extensive drinks menu
  • Milk system doesn't work as well as a steam wand
  • Performs better with dairy than plant-based milk

The Lavazza A Modo Mio Deséa has a cleverly designed control panel that displays the different menu options depending on the cup you’re using. Place an ordinary cup of any size under the dispenser and you’ll see options for brewing an espresso, long espresso (lungo), and long coffee. Push the milk-foaming cup into place and the options for milk-based drinks will light up. The full menu includes:

  • Espresso
  • Long espresso (lungo)
  • Long coffee (Americano)
  • Cappuccino (regular or large)
  • Latte macchiato
  • Hot milk foam
  • Cold milk foam

You can adjust the volume of your coffee pour, which is a nice feature that you won’t find on many capsule coffee machines. All the drink size options are customizable; just hold the appropriate button on the control panel for three seconds to begin dispensing, then press it again once you have the desired volume. When you hear two beeps, you know the new setting has been saved successfully, ready to use next time.

Like the Lavazza A Modo Mio Smeg coffee maker I tested recently, the Deséa brews excellent, well-rounded espresso in just a few seconds, and does so extremely quietly. Using a decibel meter, I measured an average volume of 50dB when extracting coffee, which is about the same as the murmur of a quiet office (although Lavazza claims the volume doesn't exceed 43dB).

After your coffee has brewed and the lights on the front panel have re-illuminated, lift the lid and after a second or two you’ll hear the used pod drop into the collection bin.

The milk system is a little louder when injecting steam, reaching a maximum of 70dB for a couple of seconds as it incorporates air, but it's quieter than the squeal and rip of a manual steam wand, and the whisk is whisper-quiet.

When you want to use the milk system, take a good look at the fill lines on the side of the glass cup that indicate how much milk to add for different drink sizes. Add too much milk and it risks splashing; too little and it won’t foam properly.

During tests, the Deséa didn’t fare very well when texturizing oat milk, which was very different from my experience with the Lavazza Assoluta. Despite the two machines using the same cup-and-lid system, the Assoluta produced inches of creamy oat foam, whereas the Deséa heated the milk (a little too much – it reached 70ºC, whereas the optimum for coffee is about 60-65ºC), but didn’t actually create any froth, even with the "extra foam" option selected.

Lavazza A Modo Mio Deséa coffee maker dispensing espresso into milk to make cappuccino

The milk system works much better with dairy than plant-based milk (Image credit: Future)

The Deséa’s milk system worked much better with full-fat dairy milk, although I found that it still didn’t produce quite as much foam as the Assoluta. This might be because the smaller Deséa can’t generate as much pressure and inject as much steam into the liquid.

The Deséa can also prepare cold milk foam. To do this, add your cup of milk, drop in a coffee pod if required, hold the temperature +/- button on the front of the machine until the foam and latte lights turn blue, then press the one you want. Again, during my tests this worked better with dairy milk. It’s a nice feature, but bear in mind that the Deséa can only brew hot coffee, so if you want to make a cold latte then you’ll need to add a shot of hot espresso when the milk is ready, which will raise the temperature. You might like to add a few ice cubes to the drink once it’s made (but not before, as they could damage the whisk).

Cappuccino prepared using Lavazza A Modo Mio Deséa coffee maker

The whisk produces large bubbles rather than fine microfoam, so the froth tends to break down relatively quickly (Image credit: Future)

Finally, a word on waste. Lavazza’s A Modo Mio capsules are compostable, but you can’t simply toss them into your household waste or add them to a compost pile. They have to be processed in an industrial facility; currently Terracycle is the only service that offers this in the UK. There’sno home collection or postage system as there is with plastic and foil coffee pods, so you’ll need to gather your used capsules and take them to a drop-off point. If there isn’t one near you, you can apply to create one.

  • Performance score: 3.5/5

Should you buy the Lavazza A Mio Modo Deséa?

Lavazza A Mio Modo Deséa score card

Attribute

Notes

Score

Value

Similar price to other capsule coffee makers with milk frother, but the pods are much cheaper.

4.5/5

Design

Compact and smart-looking, though milk system only works with supplied mug.

4/5

Performance

Doesn't foam milk as well as a steam wand, but espresso is consistently excellent and the whole machine is very quiet in use.

3.5/5

Buy it if

You have a compact kitchen

There aren't many coffee machines this small with a milk-frothing system, and the Deséa is light enough to easily move around your home and tuck into a cupboard when it isn't in use.

You're a frequent coffee-drinker

Other capsule coffee makers may be cheaper to buy, but the pods can be very expensive, particularly if you drink several cups a day. Lavazza's A Modo Mio pods are super affordable, and packed with great-quality coffee.

Don't buy it if

You prefer plant-based milk

The Deséa's milk system works best with full-fat dairy, which is true of many automatic coffee makers. If you want to stick with oat or soya, you might be better choosing the Lavazza A Modo Mio Jolie, which arrives with a standalone milk frother.

You want to make a round of coffees

The milk system only works with Lavazza's own mug; you can't fit the lid onto your own favorite cup. Again, a more basic Lavazza A Modo Mio machine and a separate milk frother would be a great alternative.

Lavazza A Mio Modo Deséa: also consider

If you're not sure whether the Lavazza A Modo Mio Deséa is the best coffee maker for you, here are two other options for your shortlist:

De'Longhi Lattissima One

This smart coffee maker uses Nespresso Original pods (the ones shaped like top hats) and has a milk system that produces foam more like a conventional steam wand. You can use any cup and the froth is thick; but the capsules cost more than A Modo Mio ones.

Read our full De'Longhi Lattissima One review

De'Longhi Dedica Duo

Want to move on from capsules? This little manual espresso machine costs about the same as the Deséa and is a great introduction to fresh speciality coffee. It has an excellent steam wand as well.

Read our full De'Longhi Dedica Duo reviewView Deal

How I tested the Lavazza A Mio Modo Deséa

I used the Lavazza A Mio Deséa for two weeks, making at least two drinks per day and using all of the available drink options (including hot and cold milk foam). I used it with dairy and oat milk, both of which were freshly purchased and chilled. I used two different types of Lavazza A Modo Mio coffee capsules, with different intensities.

I measured the temperature of the prepared milk with a food thermometer, and used a decibel meter app to measure the machine's volume.

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

Want delicious, quality espresso with the convenience of pods? After two weeks of testing, I can say the Lavazza A Modo Mio Smeg is the coffee maker for you
4:00 pm | January 17, 2026

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

Lavazza A Modo Mio Smeg: one-minute review

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

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

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

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

Lavazza A Modo Mio Smeg coffee maker on kitchen counter with espresso cups, box of coffee pods, and plant

This is a capsule coffee machine that does one thing well: it makes great espresso (Image credit: Future)

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

Lavazza A Modo Mio Smeg: specifications

Name

Lavazza A Modo Mio Smeg

Type

Capsule coffee maker

Dimensions (H x W x D)

11.4 x 6.2 x 14.4 inches / 290 x 157 x 366mm

Weight

9.4lbs / 4.25kg

Water tank capacity

30.4oz / 900ml

Lavazza A Modo Mio Smeg: price and availability

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

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

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

  • Value score: 4/5

Lavazza A Modo Mio Smeg: design

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

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

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

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

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

Used pod bin removed from Lavazza A Modo Mio Smeg coffee maker

Used pods are dispensed into a bin, which you can access by removing a drawer behind the drip tray (Image credit: Future)

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

  • Design score: 4/5

Lavazza A Modo Mio Smeg: performance

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

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

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

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

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

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

Espresso made using Lavazza A Modo Mio Smeg coffee maker

(Image credit: Future)

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

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

  • Performance score: 5/5

Should you buy the Lavazza A Modo Mio Smeg?

Lavazza A Modo Mio Smeg score card

Attribute

Notes

Score

Value

The machine itself is quite pricey, but the capsules are some of the cheapest around (and great quality, too).

4/5

Design

Stylish, compact, and easy to operate, but the gloss finish is prone to gathering fingerprints.

4/5

Performance

Produces excellent espresso quickly and quietly, and is a piece of cake to maintain.

5/5

Buy it if

You want good espresso, fast

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

You plan to keep it for a long time

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

Don't buy it if

You enjoy fun-flavored coffee

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

You need a cheap coffee maker

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

Lavazza A Modo Mio Smeg: also consider

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

De'Longhi Dedica Duo

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

Read our full De'Longhi Dedica Duo review

Krups Nespresso Pixie

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

Read our full Krups Nespresso Pixie review

How I tested the Lavazza A Moda Mio Smeg

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

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

I’ve tested the cool and colorful Ninja BlendBOSS, and making silky smoothies has bever been so much fun
5:57 pm | January 14, 2026

Author: admin | Category: Computers Gadgets Home Juicers & Blenders Small Appliances | Tags: | Comments: Off

Ninja BlendBOSS Tumbler Blender: one-minute review

The Ninja BlendBOSS Tumbler Blender with 26oz Travel Tumbler is ideal for people who want to quickly make smoothies, iced coffee, and other frozen beverages on the go. Just put your ingredients into the tumbler, screw on the blade lid, screw the blade lid onto the 1,200-watt motor base, and press one of the four blend mode buttons. There are three intelligent preset programs: Smoothie, Ice Crush, and Blend. These modes combine pulsing, blending, and pausing so you don't have guess. Unscrew the tumbler and screw on the drinking lid, grab a straw if you like, and you're on your way.

All three of the removable parts (tumbler, blade, travel lid) are easy to clean and dishwasher-safe. The base, which stays stable on your counter with suction cups, doesn't need to be washed. Simply wipe with a damp cloth if spills happen.

The Ninja BlendBOSS Tumbler Blender is aesthetically pleasing, with four whimsical colorways. The travel tumbler resembles trendy water bottle styles.

Ninja BlendBOSS Tumbler Blender: price and availability

  • List price: $119.99 (about £90 / AU$180)
  • Not widely available outside the US

The Ninja BlendBOSS Tumbler Blender with 26oz Travel Tumbler is available at all major retailers in the US, both online and in brick-and-mortar stores. Find it at Ninja's own website or at Walmart, Target, Best Buy, Amazon, and many more. It comes in four fun colorways: Lavender Lemonade (purple and yellow, as seen in my photos), Blue Raspberry (light blue and seafoam green), Watermelon Bubblegum (sage green and pale pink), and Cyberspace (gray and steel blue). It retails for $119.99 (about £90 / AU$180)

It's not widely available outside the US at the time of writing, though you may be able to find it imported via Amazon Marketplace.

  • Value score: 4/5

Ninja BlendBOSS Tumbler Blender: specifications

Price

$119.99

Blending functions

Three intelligent programs blend automatically: Smoothie, Ice Crush, and Blend. A fourth button, Pulse, lets you choose.

Size

7.2 in L x 6.69 in W x 12.91 in H

Container material

Plastic

Container included

26-ounce travel tumbler

Color options

Lavender Lemonade (purple and yellow, as seen in my photos), Blue Raspberry (light blue and seafoam green), Watermelon Bubblegum (sage green and pale pink), and Cyberspace (gray and steel blue)

Ninja BlendBOSS Tumbler Blender: design and features

  • Blend directly into the travel tumbler
  • Four blending modes (three are automatic)
  • 1,200-watt motor

Ninja BlendBOSS Tumbler Blender with 26oz Travel Tumbler is well-designed for its purpose. The powerful 1200-watt motor quickly and easily blends ice and frozen fruit for smoothies, iced coffee, and other frozen beverages to go. The tumbler is large but the tapered base fits into most cars' cupholders.

The tumbler has measurement markings on it, so you can combine your ingredients directly into it. The six-ounce marking also serves as the minimum liquid marking, since you must use at least six ounces of liquid in order for the BlendBOSS to blend properly. There is also a max fill line near the top, at the 24-ounce mark. This gives you space at the top to add whipped cream or other toppings after you're done blending.

There are four buttons on the base of the Ninja BlendBOSS Tumbler Blender. Three of them are automatic settings that use a combination of pulses and pauses to take the guesswork out of blending. The first button, Blend IQ, runs for 60 seconds. The second, Smoothie IQ, runs for 55 seconds. Ice Crush IQ is the third button, and it goes for 50 seconds. The fourth button, Pulse, is the only manual button. Any blender can be pretty loud, though this one isn't louder than others I've used. The IQ buttons allow you to walk away while your treat is blending, so you don't even have to listen to it up close.

The base is pretty big and heavy for a tumbler blender, probably due to its 1200-watt motor. It does have two suction cups on the bottom to keep it from moving around when you blend. The blade lid and the travel lid both screw on securely and easily. The travel/chug lid has a button so you can pop it open, revealing the chug opening. When you close it, the lid is leak-proof.

I did have one issue with the chug lid. If you do indeed chug directly from the lid (as opposed to using a straw), the top of the lid falls down on your head when you're taking your last sips. I found that pretty annoying, and found myself either using a straw or removing the lid entirely and just drinking directly from the tumbler.

  • Design score: 4.5/5

Ninja BlendBOSS Tumbler Blender: performance

I made a number of different recipes to test out the Ninja BlendBOSS Tumbler Blender, including several different smoothies, pancake batter, pasta sauce, and an iced drink. In every case, the blender was super fast and blended everything completely. Even the spinach in one of my smoothies was blended so fine that I couldn't see or taste the spinach at all. The ice in my iced lemonade was essentially turned to a slushy snow. I did try blending smoothies with less than the recommended amount (six ounces) of liquid, and ended up having to stop the blender, take off the blending lid, and stir around the contents. Everything else I made (with the proper amount of liquid) blended just perfectly without my having to do anything besides press the start button.

In the images below, I was making a smoothie with frozen blueberries and spinach, and it came out perfectly smooth. There were no chunks of blueberry skin or spinach.

Below are photos of the iced lemonade I made. The BlendBOSS turned ice into snow incredibly quickly and thoroughly.

I got a little creative below, making a protein pancake batter from cottage cheese, eggs, and oats. The result was a smooth liquid with no chunks at all.

Next I made some pasta sauce. Here I blended a can of whole tomatoes and cottage cheese. I didn't even do a whole blend cycle, a few seconds was all it took to turn that into sauce. I poured the contents of the blender into a pot I had on the stove with olive oil and browned garlic.

  • Performance score: 5/5

Should you buy the Ninja BlendBOSS Tumbler Blender?

Ninja BlendBOSS Tumbler Blender report card

Attributes

Notes

Rating

Value

This is fairly expensive for a tumbler blender, but it's also pretty powerful.

4/5

Design

This is a cute blender; it all works well except for the chug lid dropping on my nose when chugging.

4.5/5

Performance

Blending performance was excellent, whether using the automatic IQ buttons or the manual pulse button.

5/5

Overall

This small but powerful blender will fill just about all of your blending needs as long as you use enough liquid.

4.5/5

Buy it if

You want to make smoothies and iced beverages on the go

Iced coffee, smoothies, protein drinks, or other frozen beverages are made perfectly smooth and ready to go in seconds. The included tumbler is cute, holds up to 26 ounces of liquid, and fits into most cars' cupholders.

You want to make other blended foods too

Make sauces, soups, batters, salad dressing, and more. As long as you put in enough liquid (about 6 ounces), this blender can handle it.

You want easy cleanup

Cleaning up couldn't be easier. Blend a drop of liquid detergent and water to quickly hand wash the tumbler, blade lid, and chug lid. Or, put all three in the dishwasher if you prefer. A quick swipe with a damp cloth is all you need for the base.

Don't buy it if

You like super thick smoothies

Since this is a gravity blender, you do need sufficient liquid. I tried using less and had to stop mid-cycle to scrape down the sides. It did work, but it's pretty messy to stop in the middle like that. You definitely want to use more liquid.

You like to chug directly from the travel lid

When I tried that, the flap kept falling on my nose, which was annoying. That's a problem easily solved by using a straw or just removing the lid entirely. But if you're a dedicated chugger, it's something to keep in mind.

You don't need that much power

There are definitely less powerful portable blenders you can buy that are substantially smaller and cheaper. If you're mixing protein powder or making mostly liquid drinks with just a little ice, save your money and get one of those. The BlendBOSS will be more blender than you need.

Ninja BlendBOSS Tumbler Blender: also consider

If you're not sure about the Ninja BlendBOSS Tumbler Blender, here are some other blenders you might like

Vitamix A3500

Vitamix has been my own blender of choice for over a decade. If you need power, you need a Vitamix. Love a thick, chunky smoothie with no liquid at all? A Vitamix can handle it.

Read our review of the Vitamix A3500

Nutribullet Magic Bullet Portable Blender

If you don't need as much power as the BlendBOSS has to offer, this cheap and cheerful little portable blender will be enough for you. Plus the whole thing is portable and rechargeable.

Read our review of the Nutribullet Magic Bullet Portable Blender View Deal

How I tested the Ninja BlendBOSS Tumbler Blender

  • I tested all four blender buttons
  • I used it for weeks to make a variety of beverages and foods
  • I cleaned it after every use

I made a variety of smoothies, all of them with the minimum amount of liquid and heavy on the frozen fruit and ice. I made a cherry-yogurt-almond milk smoothie, a banana-yogurt-almond milk smoothie that included a number of powders and seeds, and a banana-blueberry-spinach-hemp seed smoothie. I made an iced lemonade beverage that included ice, water, and lemon balsamic vinegar. I made protein pancake batter with equal parts egg whites, cottage cheese, and dry oatmeal. I made pasta sauce with cottage cheese and canned whole tomatoes (added to browned garlic and olive oil on the stove.) Everything I made blended perfectly smooth with no evidence of seeds or skins.

Read more about how we test.

The Honeywell Home X2S Smart Thermostat is smart heating made simple
7:00 pm | January 11, 2026

Author: admin | Category: Computers Gadgets Home Smart Home Smart Thermostats | Comments: Off

The Honeywell Home X2S Smart Thermostat is an easy-to-use Energy Star certified thermostat. It’s not the most sleek or modern-looking device, but it does the job.

The Honeywell Home X2S Smart Thermostat is compatible with up to 2 heat/2 cool conventional, up to 2 heat/1 cool heat pump with electric backup, hot water heat, forced air (gas, oil, or electric.) It isn't compatible with electric baseboard heat (120-240V).

This thermostat comes with detailed installation instructions, but we found it beyond us and ended up hiring a professional to do it. Installation does require a C wire, though Honeywell Home does sell an adaptor kit if your home lacks one. Once the thermostat was physically installed in my home, I had no trouble at all setting it up with the app and getting it working. And it works beautifully.

You’ll need to download the First Alert by Resideo app initially to set up your schedule. You can create a 5-1-1 day cycle, 5-2 day cycle, 7-day cycle, or set up one-week increments. You can also create a vacation schedule, even after you've left. Toggle on the Auto Away feature to allow the thermostat to update automatically based on your phone's location. You can also have the app send you filter change reminders. The First Alert app can also control any of their other home devices you may own, such as CO2/smoke alarms, security cameras, air quality filters, water leak sensors, and more.

Honeywell Home X2S Smart Thermostat First Alert app setup

(Image credit: Future)

Don't like using a separate app? You can also control the thermostat with your ecosystem of choice, Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant, or Apple HomeKit (Matter certified.) I'm an Apple user, and I did not find that Siri voice control worked properly. However, Control Center worked just fine.

You can also manage the thermostat the old-fashioned way, toggling through the menu with the six buttons next to the display.

Honeywell Home X2S Smart Thermostat finger on controls

(Image credit: Karen Freeman / Future)

Honeywell Home X2S Smart Thermostat: Price and availability

The Honeywell Home X2S Smart Thermostat was announced at CES in January 2025 and was released for sale in the US and Canada in the spring of 2025. As of this writing, it retails for $79.99 in the US but isn’t for sale yet outside of North America. You can find it at Amazon, Walmart, and tons of other major retailers online and in brick and mortar stores.

This model, otherwise known as RTH2CWF/U X2S Smart Thermostat, replaces Honeywell Home’s RTH6580 WiFi 7-day Programmable Thermostat, which retailed for a similar price. It’s not as fancy-looking as some of the models you’ll find on our roundup of the best smart thermostats, but it gets the job done.

Honeywell Home X2S Smart Thermostat display off

(Image credit: Karen Freeman / Future)

Honeywell Home X2S Smart Thermostat: Design

Honeywell Home X2S Smart Thermostat comes in just one colorway. Honeywell Home calls it “white,” but I’d call it dove gray and off-white to be more specific. It measures 3.44 in/87 mm high, 5.13 in/130 mm wide, and 1.188 in/29.5 mm deep. It has a basic black-on-gray LCD display that lights up when you press a button. When dormant, the thermostat screen shows Mode, Current Temperature, Set Temperature, Status Display, Fan, and Time. It’s much easier to read when lit up, but it can be read when dormant as well.

The thermostat comes with detailed directions, so you can install it yourself if you’re fairly handy. I ended up calling a professional to install it, since I was unable to do it myself and I was having some other work done as well. It didn’t take the professional long at all. Installation does require a C-wire (24 VAC), which my home didn’t have. Honeywell Home does sell an adapter kit in case your home doesn’t have this wire. You also need to have WiFi 2.4 or 5GHz (802.11 b/g/n) in order for the smart features to work properly. Once you install Honeywell Home’s UWP wall plate, future upgrades will be easier, since you can just change the thermostat without redoing all of the wiring.

Honeywell Home X2S Smart Thermostat side view

(Image credit: Karen Freeman / Future)

The Honeywell Home X2S Smart Thermostat is Energy Star certified. You’ll need to download Resideo’s First Alert app on your smartphone in order to set up the thermostat. It’s also the easiest way to control the thermostat. But once you’ve set it up, you can control it manually on the thermostat itself, or with Amazon Alexa, Apple Home, or Google Assistant. The thermostat is Matter-certified.

The thermostat is compatible with up to 2 heat/2 cool conventional, up to 2 heat/1 cool heat pump with electric backup, hot water heat, forced air (gas, oil, or electric.) It does not work with electric baseboard heat (120-240V).

You don’t need to waste money heating or cooling your home unnecessarily when you’re away. Set up the thermostat’s schedule for a 5-1-1 day cycle, 5-2 day cycle, 7-day cycle, or one-week increments. You can also set up a vacation schedule. Toggle on the Auto Away feature to allow the thermostat to update based on your location.

Honeywell Home X2S Smart Thermostat auto away in menu

(Image credit: Karen Freeman / Future)

Honeywell Home X2S Smart Thermostat: Performance

The Honeywell Home X2S Smart Thermostat was only released months ago, but it looks like something from an earlier time. It’s not unattractive, but it doesn’t look particularly modern either. You can fully operate with the buttons just like you could in the 'old days', but you’ll have to go through a lot of menus to do so. It’s easier just to operate it within the app.

Honeywell Home X2S Smart Thermostat First Alert app screenshots

(Image credit: Future)

I hate to put yet another app on my iPhone, but this one, First Alert by Resideo, is important for the best experience with the Honeywell Home X2S Smart Thermostat. I did try controlling it from Control Center on my iPhone, but features are limited there. I also tried voice commands to Siri, but it didn’t work well. The thermostat definitely 'heard' me and changed the temperature, but it did not go to the temperature I said.

Using the First Alert app, the Honeywell Home X2S Smart Thermostat works great. I set it to heat my home to 68°F/20°C during the day and 63°F/17°C at night. Since my husband and I both often work from home, I didn’t set a daytime “away” temperature, though I could. I did take a nine-day vacation and set up a special vacation schedule, which worked beautifully. I checked multiple times on my vacation to make sure my home was only heated enough to avoid the pipes freezing. My home was comfortably warm when I returned on a particularly cold January day.

Honeywell Home X2S Smart Thermostat in Control Center on iPhone

(Image credit: Future)

The Honeywell Home X2S Smart Thermostat is compatible with Apple HomeKit (Matter enabled), Google Assistant, and Amazon Alexa. The First Alert app makes it easy to change the temperature, set up a daily/weekly schedule, turn your fan on and off, switch from heat to cool, and create vacation settings. You can also track your HVAC runtime in the app. You can also run other First Alert products via the app, such as air filters, smoke/CO2 alarms, security cameras, and water leak/freeze detectors.

I found that the Honeywell Home X2S Smart Thermostat worked quite well in heating my home to my specifications. I like being able to set the schedule to my precise daily needs, and being able to set up vacation mode even while already away on vacation. I feel like there is a lot less wasted HVAC use, as the thermostat makes it easy to set up a tailored schedule.

Should you buy the Honeywell Home X2S Smart Thermostat?

Buy it if

You want a reasonably-priced smart thermostat

While not the cheapest option on the market, there are certainly pricier ones out there. You can find this one well under the retail price if you shop around.View Deal

You only want to pay to heat and cool your home when you’re in it

Set up granular daily and weekly controls tailored to your schedule. Plus you can set up Auto Away so the thermostat updates based on your phone’s location and Vacation Settings as needed.View Deal

You want a flexible smart thermostat

The First Alert app is very easy to use, but you can also control the thermostat with your home’s ecosystem of choice. You can also go old school and use the buttons on the thermostat itself.View Deal

Don't buy it if

You don’t want to deal with another app

Yes, you do have to install the First Alert by Resideo app to get the thermostat set up. However, you could delete it later and just use your home’s ecosystem assistant or the buttons to control it.View Deal

You’re not handy and don’t want to pay a pro to install it

My husband is pretty handy (I’m not) but we ended up having to pay a pro to install the thermostat. Your mileage may vary.View Deal

You prefer to use voice activation

I had no trouble using Control Center on my iPhone to control the thermostat, but Siri’s voice activation didn’t work for me.View Deal

Honeywell Home X2S Smart Thermostat: alternatives to consider

If you're in the market for a smart thermostat and you're not sure Honeywell Home X2S Smart Thermostat is the one, here are some others you might consider checking out.

Google Nest Learning Thermostat (Gen 4)

This one topped our Best Smart Thermostat list due to its great looks, automatic heating schedule creation, and the fact that it compensates for outdoor temperature. It doesn’t require a C wire, which may make installation easier. However, it’s not compatible with Apple HomeKit.

Read our full review: Google Nest Learning Thermostat (Gen 4)View Deal

Hive Thermostat (2024)

This one is compatible with Alexa, Google Home, and Apple HomeKit. You can also use the Hive app if you don’t have any of them. The thermostat has a clear touchscreen display instead of buttons and it makes home heating more efficient.

Read our review: Hive Thermostat (2024)View Deal

Next Page »