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UPERFECT Delta Pro Touch 16-Inch 2.5K Dual Monitor review
8:15 pm | January 20, 2025

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

The UPERFECT Delta Pro Touch is designed for professionals and screen-real-estate-lovers on the go. It provides unmatched productivity and creativity potential in a portable and easy-to-use package. With a single USB-C cable, you can quickly push to both displays (depending on the computer's limitations), running them as mirrored, two separate displays, one long display, or running two entirely separate inputs simultaneously. All this while also enabling 10-point touchscreen abilities, again limited only by the computer's operating system. The Delta Pro Touch comes with a touch pen to help with more precise input if you choose, though the touch screen works great without the touch pen.

The part that makes this display so wildly impressive is that it's so powerful in such a simple and relatively portable form factor. Unlike even some of the best portable monitors I've reviewed, this is a display I could see taking with me if I am going on a trip and need an office away from my office for a bit. Granted, I would opt for a smaller display if I were headed to a coffee shop, but this monitor is incredible as a semi-permanent or permanent workspace addition.

UPERFECT Delta Pro Touch 16-Inch 2.5K Dual Monitor: Price and Availability

My model with me is currently discounted from $1,099.99 down to $589.99 on UPERFECT's website. This model will ship later this month (January 2025), while the Delta Max Pro Touch (18-inch) will ship in March 2025.

UPerfect Delta Pro touch Portable Monitor

(Image credit: Collin Probst // Future)

UPERFECT Delta Pro Touch 16-Inch 2.5K Dual Monitor: Unboxing and First Impressions

When I first unboxed this display, I was surprised at its thickness. I thought it was pretty beefy and cumbersome, but then I started to use it and realized just how much went into this monitor, and I realized that compared to a traditional monitor, there is so much smashed into such a small frame that this is wildly impressive how sleek this design is.

Within the packaging, I received the dual monitor, the pen, USB-C and HDMI to Mini HDMI, the power adapter, and a user manual.

The kickstand design is sturdy, even when the angle of the lower monitor gets pretty steep. This kickstand also folds to give a much lower bottom monitor, which is impressive overall.

The port offering is simple and easy to access, though there was slightly clearer labeling on what port is set up for what monitor. However, once I figured it out, it was easy to remember.

UPERFECT Delta Pro Touch 16-Inch 2.5K Dual Monitor: Design and Build Quality

Specs

Display: Dual 16-inch 2.5K (2560x1600) IPS panels.
Color Gamut: 100% sRGB for vibrant visuals.
Touch Features: 10-point capacitive touch with pressure-sensitive pen support (16K pressure levels).
Ports: USB-C and mini HDMI for audio and video.
Refresh Rate: 60Hz.
Weight: Approximately 5 lbs (2.31 kg).
Built-in Features: Dual speakers, auto-rotation, adjustable stand

As I briefly mentioned, the overall design is impressively compact, but that doesn't mean it fits great in any backpack with ease. It's still cumbersome in that way, but for the features and screen you get, it's incredible that it can be that small. Take that as you will, but I can guarantee I won't carry this with me as an EDC, pull-it-out-when-I-want-it kind of monitor. Still, I absolutely will have it set up and prominent for any temp setups I am building if I am traveling and working a normal workload at the same time or if I need to set up a temporary office in my primary bedroom again due to an elongated stay of guests in my home office space.

The port offering on the back of the screen is straightforward to reach, and having all of the controls on one side is great, too. Another thing that I appreciate is that even the top monitor controls and such are on the lower monitor, meaning that when you ultimately have to interact with the OSD buttons and the ports, you can grab the lower, more sturdy, and easier change whatever setting or plug whatever cable in you may need to, all without wobbling the top monitor too bad.

UPerfect Delta Pro touch Portable Monitor

(Image credit: Collin Probst // Future)

UPERFECT Delta Pro Touch 16-Inch 2.5K Dual Monitor: In use

Using this monitor for the last couple of weeks has been fantastic. I have used it with my MacBook Pro, iPad Pro, Apple TV on one display and Mac on another, Dell Precision laptop, Lenovo laptops, etc. I have tested this thing, and as you'd expect from any of the best monitors for MacBook Pro, it has performed marvellously.

The stacked displays are interesting because I have always liked stacked monitors, though I have never thought of stacking two portable monitors. This layout means I can work seamlessly on three screens. If I have my laptop, it takes less space than if I had multiple other monitors. Additionally, I am cramped in space wherever I am, like a coffee shop or a small cafe table. In that case, I can utilize just the top display and put my MacBook screen in front of the lower screen, blocking it but allowing the unique design of this portable monitor to shine, showcasing just how modular and accessible this portable monitor can be. The potential uses are incredible. I have also found myself keeping this on one of my desks to test desktops while running an extra Apple TV to the top screen to give me a mini TV in my office.

UPerfect Delta Pro touch Portable Monitor

(Image credit: Collin Probst // Future)

Another potential use case would be using this as a presentation tool. Thanks to the built-in screen rotation tool, I could flip the top screen down and behind, showing a person sitting across from me my screen, or if I am presenting in a conference room, I could have one screen point towards my right and another towards my left. As I said, the possibilities are truly remarkable.

All around, this monitor has been a joy to use. It's so unique and yet so easy to use, and I find reasons to want to use it. Now, I know that no matter where I am working, I can have a full monitor setup to help me stay productive wherever I am.

UPerfect Delta Pro touch Portable Monitor

(Image credit: Collin Probst // Future)

UPerfect Delta Pro touch Portable Monitor

(Image credit: Collin Probst // Future)

UPERFECT Delta Pro Touch 16-Inch 2.5K Dual Monitor: Final verdict

The UPERFECT Delta Pro Touch is a standout dual-screen portable monitor for professionals who value productivity, creativity, and flexibility. Its exceptional adjustability and high-resolution displays make it a worthwhile investment for those seeking to maximize their workflow efficiency on the go.


For more displays, we tested the best business monitors.

Brother HL-L2865DW printer review
5:03 pm |

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

Type: Mono laser printer

Functions: Print only

Connectivity: Ethernet, USB, Wi-Fi

Data storage slots: none

Max print speed: 34ppm (simplex)

Max paper size: Letter/A4

Print quality: 1,200 x 1,200 dpi

Memory: 128MB

Apple AirPrint: yes

Consumables included: black cartridge, 1,200 pages

Dimensions/Weight: 723 x 435 x 285 mm (WxDxH)/71.4lb/7.1kg

This little laser printer bears Brother’s Workhorse branding, which means it's designed for business use, but its compact size and convenient features will appeal to home workers too.

The Brother Workhorse HL-L2865DW is a single-function black and white printer offering a fast print speed, cost-effective mono printing and a range of useful features. Like many of the best laser printers I've reviewed, this one can auto duplex and its inbuilt Wi-Fi is dual-band, but it’s also equipped with a useful front-loading multi-purpose tray for printing on envelopes. It also comes with the security needed for a shared office and eco-friendly features including settings that reduce energy and toner consumption.

Brother HL-L2865DW: Design and build

Brother HL-L2865DW during our review process

(Image credit: Brother)

The Brother HL-L2865DW is an unassuming grey box that’s small and light enough to share your desktop. It has ports for Ethernet and USB data cables as well as offering wireless connectivity with AirPrint compatibility. It’s a pity there’s no USB Host port at the front, but the front-facing manual feed slot is a very welcome feature as it saves so much time with those single print jobs such as printing on headed notepaper and envelopes.

It feels somewhat light and plasticky and the single-line display is quite hard to read, but at least these money-saving measures keep the overall cost competitive. As this is a mono printer, there’s plenty of room for the single high-yield black toner cartridge, which means your cost-per-page is also competitive.

Brother HL-L2865DW: Features & specifications

Brother HL-L2865DW during our review process

(Image credit: Brother)

For a print-only mono device, the Brother HL-L2865DW has quite a few features to shout about. The print speed is impressive, especially in duplex mode. The given figure is 16ppm (pages per minute) which I corroborated with my stopwatch. In simplex mode, its 34ppm, which is significantly faster than the 26ppm HP Color LaserJet Pro 3201dw.

The single-line LCD is small, but at least it does have a display. The inbuilt wi-fi is dual-band and there’s also an Ethernet port. The main paper tray takes an ample 250-sheets of Letter or A4-size paper and the single-sheet front input slot is essential for those one-off print jobs.

Brother has taken some steps to make this printer more sustainable with an Eco Mode to reduce power consumption, and a Toner Save Mode to reduce toner. It’s a shame that no recycled plastic or parts have been used in its construction, and the packaging includes polystyrene, so there’s room for improvement.

Brother HL-L2865DW: Setup and operation

Brother HL-L2865DW during our review process

(Image credit: Brother)

The setup manual is very brief because Brother is assuming you will download the excellent companion app, called Mobile Connect, and use that as your setup guide. It’s a case of plugging in, loading your paper and installing the toner cartridge, before letting the app on your smartphone get the printer connected to your local wi-fi network. It worked first time for me, and with AirPrint built in, I was able to print from my MacBook and iPhone straight away. It’s also fully compatible with Windows and Chrome OS. The Mobile Connect app is good for general operation too because you can use it to check the toner level, ordering a new cartridge, or update the printer’s firmware.

Brother HL-L2865DW: Performance

Brother HL-L2865DW during our review process

(Image credit: Brother)

I found the Brother HL-L2865DW printed quickly and surprisingly quietly throughout the tests. The quoted speed of 34ppm is accurate enough, while the quoted noise level of 49dB makes this one of the quieter laser printers on the market. It also printed reliably and well, so long as you don’t ask it to duplex thick paper. I found that it could print well on heavy 300gsm paper stock in simplex mode when using the single sheet input, which is designed for heavier paper, but automatically turning the page over always caused a jam. Removing a stuck page involves removing the cartridge to access it. The paper weight limit for auto duplex printing is a rather thin 105gsm.

The primary task of any black and white laser printer is to turn out pages of text and this it does with clarity and consistency. The characters don’t look quite as inky black as some rival laser printers I have tested, but that’s not to say they are pale. When I reduced the font size to just two points, I was still able to read the text (through a magnifying glass) quite easily.

The quoted resolution of 1,200 x 1,200 sounds better than the 600 x 600 you usually get with laser printers, but sadly that doesn’t equate to superior print quality. The black and white photos I printed looked less sharp than other laser printers at this price point can manage. More impressive was the way it applied the black toner very evenly, leaving no tramlines or blocking, which is good news if your documents include pie charts and areas of solid black. As mentioned, however, it’s not the darkest black toner available, so it has a tendency to appear grey.

Brother HL-L2865DW: Consumables

Brother HL-L2865DW during our review process

(Image credit: Brother)

Replacement toner cartridges for this printer are cost effective, especially the high-yield TN830XL (TN2510XL) cartridge, which gives you 3,000 pages for a cost of US$152 (£96). That’s a pretty low cost-per-page. The bundled cartridge yields 1,200 pages, which isn’t too bad for inbox toner either.

Brother HL-L2865DW: Maintenance

Brother HL-L2865DW during our review process

(Image credit: Brother)

Unlike inkjets, laser printers don’t suffer from blocked nozzles when left unused, so they require less maintenance on the whole. They do, however, rely on a drum that, in this case, needs replacing after 15,000 pages and a new DR830 (DR2510) unit from Brother costs US$136 (£106).

Brother HL-L2865DW: Final verdict

Brother HL-L2865DW during our review process

(Image credit: Brother)

The Brother HL-L2865DW highlights how efficient a black and white laser printer can be in a shared office or home office situation. If you can say with certainty that you don’t need to print in color, a mono laser like this is smaller, simpler, cheaper to buy and cheaper to run. With just one cartridge, there’s room for more toner, enough for 3,000 pages in this case, and more paper (250 sheets). And it performed its single job of turning out professional-looking pages of text very well throughout my testing. The print rate of 16ppm in duplex mode is pretty fast and at less than 50dB, it operates quietly too. The only test it failed was duplexing high quality, which caused a jam. The limit for duplexing is 106gsm stock. I would have appreciated a larger display, or a front USB Host port, but the front-loading multi-purpose input slot proved invaluable for one-off print jobs such as printing on envelopes and headed paper. Overall, this basic laser printer proved to be good value for money.


Want a printer for the home or home office? We reviewed the best home printers around.

Philips 49B2U6903CH ultrawide monitor review
4:55 pm |

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

Multiple monitors or one very big screen. That's ultimately what your choice comes down to if you want the very best in multitasking display support. And it's very much the single-screen option of the two that the new Philips 49B2U6903CH delivers on a very large scale.

This is a 49-inch ultrawide model that offers essentially the same screen area and resolution as a pair of 27-inch 1440p panels. To that basic productivity proposition Philips has added high specification connectivity features including Thunderbolt 4 and a KVM switch and basic HDR capabilities. You also get an integrated pop-up 5MP webcam with Windows Hello and AI tracking support.

If that all sounds appealing, the catch is the price. At over four figures, both in the US and the UK, it's much more expensive than a pair of equivalent 27-inch 1440p panels. So, the question of whether the convenience and seamlessness of a single-screen solution trumps the obvious superior value of going with two screens. Let's find out how Phillips' latest model compares to the best ultrawide monitors on the market.

Philips 49B2U6903CH: Design & features

Philips 49B2U6903CH during our review

(Image credit: Philips)
  • No nonsense aesthetics
  • Great productivity feature set
  • High-spec webcam
Specs

Panel size: 49-inch

Panel type: VA

Resolution: 5,120 x 1,440

Brightness: 450 nits SDR, 500 nits HDR

Contrast: 3,000:1

Pixel response: 4ms

Refresh rate: 100Hz

Colour coverage: 119% sRGB

HDR: DisplayHDR 400

Vesa: 100mm x 100mm

Inputs: DisplayPort 1.4 x1, HDMI 2.0 x2, USB-C / Thunderbolt 4 with 100 W power delivery x1

Other: USB hub, including Thunderbolt 4 and USB-C downstream, KVW switch, 5MP webcam with AI tracking and Windows Hello

The Philips 49B2U6903CH is unambiguously a productivity panel, that much is abundantly clear from the simple black aesthetic. RGB lighting and other gamer-centric flourishes definitely do not feature. Still, this is a mostly well-engineered display with a fantastic feature set.

The main negative from a design perspective is the stand. The stability of the panel itself on the stand isn't hugely reassuring, though that's not a huge issue in static use. What is more of a problem is the large size of the flat, solid stand base, which easts into desk space and isn't the most ergonomic solution to propping up a screen this big.

The other ergonomic issue you may or may not like is the location of the audio-out port and USB sockets on the side of the display. There's also USB connectivity on the rear, but if you run with an audio connection full time, it's a little unsightly sticking out of the side. Then again, it's easier to access when plugging in headphones.

Aside from the comprehensive connectivity including USB-C with a generous 100W of power delivery for single-cable laptop docking, Thunderbolt 4 support with daisy chaining, and full KVM functionality, one of the main attractions is the pop-up integrated 5MP webcam situated on the top bezel.

It definitely offers better image quality than most built-in monitor cams. It also supports AI tracking, the idea being that the camera tracks and follows you, removing the need to always sit perfectly centrally. In practice, it's very hit and miss to the point of routinely cutting your head off and being almost unusable. It's probably a software tweak away from being great. As it is, the AI tracking element is best ignored.

Philips 49B2U6903CH: Performance

Philips 49B2U6903CH during our review

(Image credit: Philips)
  • Nicely calibrated VA panel
  • Epic desktop space
  • Mediocre pixel density

The basic format of the Philips 49B2U6903CH isn't exactly novel. But the physical reality of a 49-inch curved monitor with a 32:9 aspect ratio is still very impressive. This is an awful lot of monitor.

The benefit for multitasking is obvious enough. Once you've got used to easily being able to run as many as four full application windows, side-by-side, going back to a standard 27-inch 16:9 monitor feels like a real injustice, it's just so constraining.

As for image quality, the biggest downside of this Philips is the pixel density. If you're familiar with 27-inch or 32-inch 4K monitors, the quality of fonts and image detail is a clear step down. However, for now there are no 32:9 aspect, 49-inch ultrawide monitors available with higher pixel density. So, if you favour this form factor, well, this is as good as it gets in terms of DPI.

Still, Philips has calibrated this monitor well, as indicated by the included calibration report showing an average DeltaE of just 0.88. In practice, that means the SDR colours look accurate and well balanced.

This is also a very punchy display, with a rated brightness of 450 nits SDR and 500 nits HDR. That's plenty for burning off even very bright ambient light conditions. What's more, the panel's SDR-calibration in HDR mode is bang-on, too. That means you can run this monitor in HDR mode all the time and with no need to switch between modes depending on content type.

That said, you do have to be realistic about the HDR capabilities of a display like this. There's no local dimming, let alone the per-pixel lighting of an OLED screen. Long story short, this isn't really an HDR-capable display, despite the VESA HDR400 certification. Indeed, VESA HDR400 pretty much tells you there's no real HDR capability, more support for HDR content rendered with correct colours, which is better than nothing.

Elsewhere, Philips quotes this monitor as being capable of 100Hz. However, in our testing it offered 120Hz and ran smoothly, so the quoted 100Hz may be an error.

Whatever, 120Hz is plenty for desktop responsiveness and smoothness. To be frank, even for a spot of gaming it's more than enough given the high resolution and likely frame rates as a consequence. Not that this is a gaming monitor, but it will do that job on the side just fine.

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Philips 49B2U6903CH during our review

(Image credit: Philips)
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Philips 49B2U6903CH during our review

(Image credit: Philips)
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Philips 49B2U6903CH during our review

(Image credit: Philips)
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Philips 49B2U6903CH during our review

(Image credit: Philips)
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Philips 49B2U6903CH during our review

(Image credit: Philips)
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Philips 49B2U6903CH during our review

(Image credit: Philips)
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Philips 49B2U6903CH during our review

(Image credit: Philips)
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Philips 49B2U6903CH during our review

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Philips 49B2U6903CH during our review

(Image credit: Philips)

Philips 49B2U6903CH: Final verdict

Philips 49B2U6903CH during our review

(Image credit: Philips)

From a productivity perspective, this is a very fine display tool. The huge workspace and outstanding connectivity see to that, while the webcam adds a further productivity flourish even if the AI tracking doesn't really work.

The image quality is likewise all you could ask for from this type of display. It's punchy, it's accurate, it's well calibrated, it's plenty quick enough. Sure, the HDR support is limited. But the real downside for productivity is that mediocre pixel density. For whatever reason, none of the very small number of actual LCD panel makers are currently offering a high density panel in this form factor. You can't blame Philips for that.

What you could take Philips to task over is the price. For sure, a monitor this size with the features it offers is never going to be cheap. But it's more expensive than some OLED 49-inch gaming panels with the same form factor, which doesn't really make sense. All that said, even at this high price, this is still an appealing proposition and a decent long-term investment.


For more content creation displays, we tested the best business monitors and the best monitors for a dual-screen setup.

Rocket Money review
3:04 pm |

Author: admin | Category: Computers Gadgets Pro Software & Services | Comments: Off

When it comes to selecting best budgeting apps and personal finance software, most of us are looking for something quick and easy to use. Time is money, so having something like Rocket Money close at hand makes total sense. As its creator’s state on the website, Rocket Money is an app that has been designed to help you save more and spend less. What’s more, there’s a free version although the real value comes from the Rocket Money Premium edition.

Either way, Rocket Money is a great tool that is available for both iOS and Android, along with a very good desktop incarnation for good measure, that is one of the best-looking creations out there. It’s easy to use and chock full of features with the bonus of credit reporting that adds additional value to an already impressive package. On top of that, there are everyday tools for tracking spend, monitoring expenses and also managing subscriptions.

Admittedly, some might find the paid-for incarnation of Rocket Money a little more than they wanted to lay out. However, there are enough features and functions that make Rocket Money feel like good value, although it faces competition from the likes of perennial favourite Quicken and also Simplifi.

Rocket Money

Rocket Money comes in desktop and app editions. (Image credit: Rocket Money)

Rocket Money: Pricing

The good news is that Rocket Money is initially free to use, with a straightforward download and setup procedure that introduces you to its core features. However, in order to access the more useful Premium features, there’s a suggested monthly fee of $10 and you can actually choose whether or not to pay more or less between $3 and £$12, presumably depending on what you think of it. Whatever route is taken, the billing cycle is an annual one, which might not appeal if you prefer more of a pay-as-you-go approach to personal finance apps.

Rocket Money

Rocket Money offers a range of financial tools within its slick interface. (Image credit: Rocket Money)

Rocket Money: Features

Once the Premium edition has been accessed, there are plenty of features that make Rocket Money feel like the outlay has been justified. First up, the app or desktop edition both offer a view of personal finances in simple but very vivid colour, with a comprehensive breakdown of personal finances being the main appeal. There are useful nudges to help with future spending and it’s also possible to setup alerts to ensure that spending never gets too wayward.

Another useful tool is the negotiator option, which can pick through your ongoing bills and scour the deals out there in order to find a way of shaving costs. Meanwhile, the Net Worth tool brings everything together and allows for much better planning when it comes to future finances. Similarly, there’s a credit scoring tool that can assist with seeing how you’ll fare in terms of securing loans and the like.

One of the novel features that lots of people don’t really think about is having the ability to find and cancel any unwanted subscriptions. This is a neat tool that can help curb spending, especially on things that might have slipped under the radar. Add on financial goal tools, budgeting assistants and some funky widgets within the interface and it’s a solid enough package.

Rocket Money

The Rocket Money app experience offers an insight into finances on the go. (Image credit: Rocket Money)

Rocket Money: Performance

There’s plenty of appeal when it comes to the performance characteristics of Rocket Money. This is a lean and mean app, with a desktop edition to match, and it speeds along very nicely in either scenario. Naturally, as you’d expect from software that is dealing with personal finances, there’s also 256-bit encryption, which is standard fare for bank-level processes. That means connecting to bank accounts is simple, straightforward and, crucially, secure too.

Rocket Money: Ease of use

Rocket Money is certainly an easy thing to use, whether you head for the app option or prefer a desktop variant. There’s some of the usual signing up to be done first, as well as connecting to your financial accounts, but once this is done and plugged in, progress is wonderfully straightforward. A lot of this is down the layout of the interface, which is good on the eyes for app and desktop alike. The graphics are clear and concise while there’s a clever use of colour where it’s needed most, especially when it comes to breaking down spending habits.

Rocket Money

Rocket Money is easy to use either via the desktop website or the excellent app. (Image credit: Rocket Money)

Rocket Money: Support

The ease of use mentioned above is a good thing as support is a little on the thin side. However, there is an email or chat facility if needed, but the great thing about Rocket Money is its simplicity. Spend some time checking out the demo or free version, which will give a good grounding in the basics, and it seems unlikely that you’ll come unstuck after advancing to the Premium edition.

Rocket Money: Final verdict

Rocket Money is a good option for anyone who needs to manage their personal finance situation more effectively. The free version is worth bypassing to get the full benefit of this app though, with either the mobile or desktop Premium editions really offering the best potential. Expect a sumptuous graphical interface, with lots of power tools that will enable you to stay on top of every aspect of your finances. Some of the reporting could be a tad better and ditto for the investment tracking potential, but Rocket Money is otherwise very solid indeed.

Pocketsmith review
11:16 pm | January 17, 2025

Author: admin | Category: Computers Gadgets Pro Software & Services | Comments: Off

The world of personal finance has lots of options when it comes to managing your money. Pocketsmith is a budgeting app that helps you do just that, but it’s also great for helping to plan for the future with a suite of features and functions that take the pain out of personal finance planning. 

This is an app with a strong desktop focus with versions for MacOS, Windows and Linux too, but there’s also the option to use it via the app, which is available for iOS and Android. Another appealing aspect of Pocketsmith is that the folks behind it have made moving from another app, like the much-missed Mint, for example, very easy indeed. 

Pocketsmith lets users move their accounts, transactions and associated categories across and into the Pocketsmith domain with very little effort. As you’d expect from any decent financial app, there’s also bank-level 2FA security plus the option for customising the software to suit your own personal needs.

Pocketsmith

Pocketsmith comes in desktop and app editions plus there's a UK specific edition outside of the US. (Image credit: Pocketsmith)

Pocketsmith: Pricing

There are currently three different options when it comes to using Pocketsmith, aside from a free version that is minimalist to say the least. Things kick off with the Foundation package, which costs $119.95 a year or $14.95 a month. This is followed by Flourish, which is $199.95 annually or $24.95 per month. 

Top of the pile is the Fortune package, which costs a sizable $319.95 a year or, alternatively, $39.95 per month. Paying more means Pocketsmith becomes more potent and allows access to more connected banks. A UK edition is also available, with pricing to suit as shown in the image above.

Pocketsmith

Pocketsmith works well as a desktop package but there are app editions too. (Image credit: Pocketsmith)

Pocketsmith: Features

Pocketsmith comes fully featured, with a host of tools that not only help track expenses but let users keep tabs on their overall spending, plan for the future and also get on top of any outstanding debts. When it comes to monitoring accounts and related transactions there are a wealth of tools at your disposal. Pocketsmith makes it easy to connect to live bank feeds and this extends to in excess of 12,000 financial institutions around the globe.

This is enhanced by the fact that Pocketsmith can handle multiple currencies and can update its data dynamically based on the daily rates of any selected accounts. Even if this is complicated by multiple accounts and currencies, Pocketsmith allows users to categorise, label and annotate any spend, so that it’s easy to keep track on what’s going on with your personal finances.

Pocketsmith also has a powerful array of budget and planning tools. There’s the capacity for producing cash projections with a very generous limit of up to 60 years in the future on the top tier package. Similarly, the flexible way Pocketsmith lets users schedule upcoming bills and budgets makes light work of staying organised. The app rounds things out nicely with a decent set of reporting tools, which offers up cashflow statements and gives an insight on net worth.

Pocketsmith

The Pocketsmith app experience offers a very detailed insight into finances. (Image credit: Pocketsmith)

Pocketsmith: Performance

Pocketsmith works best in the desktop environment, where all that beefy data can be properly managed without the limitations of a small screen. However, the apps perform just as swiftly as the version used through a web browser, despite the fact that there’s quite a lot going on. Pocketsmith has many different features and functions, so the designers have done a great job at ensuring everything keeps ticking over, even if you’re working on predictions that go way into the future.

Pocketsmith: Ease of use

While there is a free version of Pocketsmith, this is a very simplistic edition of the software and is probably best avoided if your finances are more nuanced. Once the paid tiers are accessed there’s a lot more to understand, with a whole host of features and functions that require time and not a little patience to master. The interface, both on the desktop and mobile editions, is slick enough, but there is quite a lot going on. The base level edition makes a lot of sense, but it’s still not exactly bargain-basement.

Pocketsmith

Pocketsmith is relatively easy to use although it boasts a very detailed interface. (Image credit: Pocketsmith)

Pocketsmith: Support

There seems to be a decent community spirit present on the Pocketsmith website, with lots of fellow users keen to share their enjoyment of the personal finance organiser. Elsewhere, in terms of proper support, there’s a chunky Learn Center that has a huge array of different articles on how to use the core aspects of Pocketsmith. 

These range from basics, such as getting started right on through to reporting and net worth topics. If all else fails, there’s also a Contact Us button in order to get direct support, which takes users initially to a chat-style dialog box where it’s possible to input questions and queries.

Pocketsmith: Final verdict

Pocketsmith isn’t really going to work for anyone who has a fairly simple personal finance setup that doesn’t require them to crunch lots of data. The free version is very basic, however, so the real value comes from one of the three paid-for packages. The downside with these is the expense involved, with the premium package only a realistic option for the well-heeled with super complex financial matters to unpick.

Lenovo ThinkPad P16v Gen 2 mobile workstation review
10:12 pm | January 15, 2025

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

Lenovo's ThinkPad lineup has always been a significant grouping of offerings for business professionals. The Lenovo ThinkPad P16v Gen 2 is no different. It targets professionals who need workstation-grade performance on the go.

The ThinkPad P16 is one of the best Lenovo ThinkPad laptops around - ideal for heavy computational and graphical work. Compared to the P16, I view the P16v Gen 2 as a ThinkPad P16 lite. But that's not any official branding; it's just my viewpoint. It's a slightly less powerful P16, but still very much enterprise-focused and workstation-esque.

Lenovo ThinkPad P16v Gen 2: Price and Availability

The Lenovo ThinkPad P16v Gen 2 starts at $1,791.92 (pre-tax) and quickly scales up to well over $3,500 before any pre-installed software options if you want to max out the hardware offerings.

These and custom builds are available on Lenovo's website, and pre-built models are available in places like Amazon or other computer retailers.

Lenovo ThinkPad P16v Gen 2

(Image credit: Collin Probst // Future)

Lenovo ThinkPad P16v Gen 2: Unboxing and First Impressions

The ThinkPad P16v Gen 2 laptop comes in the Lenovo packaging, a beefy yellow-tipped Lenovo charger (though you can also charge via USB-C, albeit slower), and other essential documentation. I was immediately reminded of the P16, though the P16v is a bit slimmer and lighter (4.89 lb vs. 6.5 lb).

Another thing that I noticed right away was the port offering and location. I'll discuss this more later, but right off the bat, I was surprised to see a full ethernet port and ports on the back; then again, though thin, this is a workstation. Lastly, I genuinely like the matte black finish on this laptop. It feels professional, and I like it for the same reasons. Though I love some sweet backpack colors, I will always choose black. I love some splashes of color from Apple these days, but I always prefer simple colors. It's clean, goes with everything, and it looks professional.

Lenovo ThinkPad P16v Gen 2: Design and Build Quality

Specs

CPU: Intel Core Ultra 7 165H to Ultra 9 185H options
GPU: NVIDIA RTX 2000 Ada Gen or RTX 3000 Ada Gen
Display: 16” WUXGA (1920 x 1200), IPS, 100% sRGB to 16" WQUXGA (3840 x 2400), IPS, 100%DCI-P3, 60Hz
Storage: 2x 2TB SSD M.2 drives
RAM: 8GB DDR5, upgradable to 96GB .

Unsurprisingly, the Lenovo ThinkPad P16v Gen 2 is very similar to the ThinkPad P16 in design, much like the name. The P16v Gen 2 is slimmer and more portable than a ThinkPad P16. However, it still feels relatively robust and like any of the best mobile workstations I've tried, with actual portability in mind. Thanks to the real estate left behind due to the 16" screen, Lenovo could add a full numpad to the right of the entire keyboard, and better yet, it's comfortable to type on.

The port offering on this computer is excellent for the modern employee needing workstation-grade power. There is an SD Card Reader, an optional Smart Card reader, a full-size HDMI port, a USB-A Port, two Thunderbolt 4 ports, and a full RJ45 Ethernet port. What's fascinating and pretty brilliant is that one of the Thunderbolt ports and the Ethernet port are on the back of the ThinkPad P16v Gen 2. This makes it super easy to plug into a Thunderbolt Docking station and/or that ethernet port, both of which you'd want running away from your desk or workspace exactly how they will when plugged into the back of your laptop.

Lenovo ThinkPad P16v Gen 2

(Image credit: Collin Probst // Future)

Lenovo ThinkPad P16v Gen 2: In use

I've had this laptop in my rotation for the last couple of weeks, and it has been a pretty good computer. It can easily handle my productivity suite of tasks, content creation and video editing, and photo editing. It can handle the 3D modeling software for my 3D printer and all of it at once. I really appreciate the ethernet port and Thunderbolt 4 port on the back, as I could have the not-so-flexible ethernet port run away from my computer when I needed to hardline into the internet at one of my job sites. Whenever I am at my desk, I can easily plug into the docking station I have set up running to my monitors and peripherals.

Lenovo ThinkPad P16v Gen 2

(Image credit: Collin Probst // Future)

Another thing worth mentioning is the reliability and usability of the ThinkPad keyboards. While I never want to use the famous TouchPoint embedded within the keyboard, it's handy when I think about using it. On top of that, the typing experience is quite comfortable, even for all-day typing, as I do.

Lenovo has also chosen to utilize the space granted by the 16-inch screen to fit in a numpad. Some laptops, even with 16-inch screens, will just fit the exact size keyboard in the center of the allotted space. Lenovo chose to utilize that space fitting in a full-numberpad. For those who work with spreadsheets, phone numbers, or numbers in general, having a dedicated numpad makes data entry exponentially faster, and that's easy to do with the ThinkPad P16v Gen 2, adding to the allure for the business professional.

Lenovo ThinkPad P16v Gen 2

(Image credit: Collin Probst // Future)

Lenovo ThinkPad P16v Gen 2: Final verdict

The ThinkPad P16v Gen 2 delivers an exceptional balance of power, portability, and professional features. While it doesn’t quite match the raw performance of the P16, its lighter build and price point make it an excellent choice for professionals on the move who need a reliable machine.


For more workplace computing, we've tested the best business laptops.

Plugable USB-C Dual 4K Display HDMI or DisplayPort Horizontal Docking Station review
9:06 pm |

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

In an age of hybrid work environments, having a reliable docking station can significantly enhance productivity. The Plugable USB-C Dual 4K Display HDMI or DisplayPort Docking Station is designed for professionals who need multi-monitor support, excellent connectivity, and powerful charging options, all with DisplayLink baked in. That's what this Plugable dock has to offer.

It may be tailored to Mac, but with the design language and the use of DisplayLink, it can be used with any operating system. Having reviewed many of the best laptop docking stations, I have tried it with Windows, iPadOS, and MacOS. While the latter two have limitations on-screen usage, it's good to know that you are set to go with multiple displays in one way or another.

Plugable USB-C Dual 4K HDMI or DisplayPort Dock: Price and Availability

The Plugable USB-C Dual 4K HDMI or DisplayPort Dock is available for $200 directly from Plugable's website or Amazon and is backed by a two-year warranty with lifetime support from the Plugable team.

Plugable | USB-C Dual 4K Display HDMI or DisplayPort Horizontal Docking Station

(Image credit: Collin Probst // Future)

Plugable USB-C Dual 4K HDMI or DisplayPort Dock: Unboxing and First Impressions

The Plugable USB-C Dual 4K HDMI or DisplayPort Dock is a very simple-looking dock overall. The packaging is simple, the labels are clear, and the inclusion of DisplayLink is prominent. What’s great, though, is that while this dock is relatively wide, it has clean lines, flat sides (not rounded or protruding), and is pretty thin. This makes it a perfect candidate to be mounted, in my opinion, and that’s precisely what I did.

The only thing that sets this apart from a simple plug-and-play is if you will use the DisplayLink feature. If you are not using this with a MacBook or only plan on using one monitor, you can run this dock as a plug-and-play solution. I run my desk this way about 70% of the time. The other 30% of the time, I add another monitor or swap out monitors to test at this desk. When I do that, I need to run the DisplayLink driver and software on my MacBook Pro, which is super easy to download and relatively lightweight.

Plugable | USB-C Dual 4K Display HDMI or DisplayPort Horizontal Docking Station

(Image credit: Collin Probst // Future)

Plugable USB-C Dual 4K HDMI or DisplayPort Dock: Design and Build Quality

Specs

Video Output: Dual 4K @ 60Hz via 2x HDMI or 2x DisplayPort.
Ports: 2x HDMI, 2x DisplayPort, 2x USB-C, 4x USB 3.0, SD/microSD readers, Ethernet, 3.5mm jack.
Power Delivery: 100W charging for laptops.
Compatibility: macOS, Windows, ChromeOS (driver installation required for macOS).

The port arrangement on this dock is laid out with desk organization in mind. The front-facing quick-access ports are easily accessible, and the backports are nicely arranged and easy to work with, even when facing away from the desk. All the monitor connections and devices that generally stay connected (rather than get unplugged and plugged in frequently) are also neatly organized.

The USB-C on the side runs to the laptop cable tucked away so I can route it around my desk shelf or directly to my laptop. In my case, I used one of my new favorite accessories, the right-angle 40Gbps USB-C adapter, to help keep everything tucked away and tidy.

I could see this dock used at home and in traditional office workspaces. However, I would not want this to be a portable dock to take with me from place to place, as it is designed to stay on a desk or workstation.

Plugable USB-C Dual 4K HDMI or DisplayPort Dock: In use

So far, my experience with this dock has been smooth sailing. It easily handles my monitor usage, and since it has both HDMI and DisplayPort, it has made running my vast array of monitors quite effortless -- no adapters necessary. The USB-A ports are great, and for some setups, that might be all you need; however, if you are working with large files or a lot of newer generation tech that is USB-C or even Thunderbolt, you may want to check out a different model of Plugable docks.

The best part of this dock is that it has built-in DisplayLink, allowing me to run multiple monitors on my otherwise limited MacBook Pro. It's annoying, but I'm thankful for companies like Plugable that put DisplayLink in their docks so that I can circumvent this limitation on my setup.

Plugable | USB-C Dual 4K Display HDMI or DisplayPort Horizontal Docking Station

(Image credit: Collin Probst // Future)

Plugable | USB-C Dual 4K Display HDMI or DisplayPort Horizontal Docking Station

(Image credit: Collin Probst // Future)

Plugable USB-C Dual 4K HDMI or DisplayPort Dock: Final verdict

The Plugable USB-C Docking Station offers exceptional functionality for power users who demand high-resolution multi-monitor setups and robust connectivity. While its reliance on drivers and lack of USB-C/Thunderbolt may deter some, its performance and built-in DisplayLink make it a worthwhile investment for many.


Plugable 15.6in USB-C Portable Monitor review
6:11 pm |

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

The world of portable monitors is incredibly vast and diverse, and it has only been going on more these last few years with people working from home, coffee shops, and their couches. I'm writing this paragraph from my home office away from my home office -- my dining room table, my couch, or my chair in my bedroom. Yes, there are plenty of times that I work strictly from my laptop, but sometimes, there are tasks that I could benefit from having a second display. When it's time to complete those tasks, and I am unable to grab my monitor, I opt for a portable monitor instead.

Over the years, I have tried many portable monitors; I always used my 11in iPad Pro as a portable monitor (until I swapped it for an iPad Mini 7). Though all of those portable monitors are fantastic for one reason or another, there is something incredible about the Plugable 15.6-inch Portable USB-C Monitor. It's not the most brilliant-looking display, at only 1920 x 1080, it's not the largest display at 15.6 inches, and it's not the fanciest display, but it is the one I have been grabbing most frequently over the last few months of working from home a ton with sick family I am taking care of.

Plugable has somehow found a way to give me what I need in this regard, without any fluff. One of the best portable monitors I've used, this one is incredibly lightweight, easy to use, and even upgradable (but more on that later).

Plugable 15.6" Portable USB-C Monitor: Price and Availability

The Plugable 15.6" USB-C Display is sold through the official Plugable website (click here) and online retailers such as Amazon for $199.95 and is backed by lifetime support. This purchase gets you the monitor, a magnetic folio, and a USB-C Cable to connect to your device.

Plugable 15.6

(Image credit: Collin Probst // Future)

Plugable 15.6" Portable USB-C Monitor: Unboxing and First Impressions

As I previously said, I have tried a lot of portable monitors and monitors in general. The one thing that immediately stood out about this monitor was its light. I was blown away taking it out of the box and thought something was wrong. Then, once I added the folio case, it was barely any heavier. I quickly got acquainted with the ports and a couple of buttons on the monitor, grabbed the USB-C cable, and plugged it into my laptop. It sprung to life immediately, showcasing how easy this monitor is to use.

Right off the bat, I thought the monitor looked great and wanted to use it. The folio base is excellent for stability on a couch, bed, chair, table, desk, café, and everywhere I have tried. The folio adds protection to the screen without needing another pouch or sleeve that will go unused, helping this setup stay incredibly minimal, and this portable monitor is super easy to slide into a bag, backpack, or purse to bring with you anywhere and everywhere.

Plugable 15.6

(Image credit: Collin Probst // Future)

Plugable 15.6" Portable USB-C Monitor: Design and Build Quality

Specs

Screen Size: 15.6 inches.
Resolution: 1920 x 1080 @ 60Hz.
Panel Type: IPS with LED backlight.
Brightness: 300 nits.
Ports: 1x USB-C for host connection, 2x USB-C 10Gbps hub ports with pass-through charging
Weight: 840g (1.85lbs) with folio.
Viewing Angles: 178° vertical and horizontal.

The Plugable 15.6" portable USB-C Display is incredibly slim, portable, minimalist, and durable. I've taken this monitor with me on numerous trips, putting it in my backpack for some and in a suitcase for others, and it just keeps working. Something about it being so slim and light makes me think it won't hold up, but I'm surprised every single time that it's durable, too.

In addition to being durable, it's packed with the valuable features you need and none that you don't. This portable monitor has three high-speed USB-C 3.2 Gen 2 ports with up to 10Gbps data transfer and up to 100W PD (85W charging) for your laptop or another connected device through TAA-compliant ports that will work with most USB-C, USB4, and Thunderbolt, and USB-C cables. It also has a glare-resistant screen, a sharp 300-nit IPS LED display, universal compatibility, and even playback-protected content (HDCP) from streaming services, which some displays block.

Lastly, the folio with this display works as the stand, meaning it's incredibly minimal and does not need additional accessories to hold the display up.

Plugable 15.6

(Image credit: Collin Probst // Future)

Plugable 15.6" Portable USB-C Monitor: In use

The Plugable 15.6-inch portable USB-C display has been a game changer for me for the last few weeks. It is not the best in every area, but it's phenomenal in most places that count, which makes it just right for almost everyone. To quickly list a few things this doesn't have, there is no VESA mount option or any Magsafe or stand options even though the folio snaps into place, nor is this a high-resolution or high-brightness screen. Instead, it's a 1920 x 1080 display with 300 nits of brightness, a few ports, and a folio stand.

But, what this has been able to do for me is extend my work to another screen pretty much anywhere I am. It's helped me get so much more done when another screen is helpful, whether I have my fancy home office, another monitor to plug into, or a proper workspace. This monitor offers 85W charging, which is plenty for even my 13" M2 MacBook Pro, or most of my laptops. Plus, I can do that with the third port if I ever need to charge another device (such as my laptop light bar modification (more on this later) or transfer data with a drive, all with whatever computer I am using as long as it has USB-C, which is all even semi-recent computers.

Plugable 15.6

(Image credit: Collin Probst // Future)

There are a few things that I have added to this monitor that have taken it to another level. Since I have used it heavily for the past few months, especially on trips or working at night away from my home office, I have worked a lot in the dark, either late at night or early in the morning. I don't know about you, but the glaring difference between a screen and a dark room can sometimes be very straining on my eyes, or if there are other things I am referencing or other things around my workspace, even a drink, I like seeing my workspace a bit, if nothing else to help me stay awake on those very long nights.

So, what I did was I added the BenQ Laptop Light Bar to my portable monitor; this way, it can stay as a single desk setup, and I can unplug my laptop, go wherever else I may need to go and come right back to a complete setup. I did this by adding a MagSafe adhesive on the back of the monitor (specifically, it was an extra one from a Rolling Square attachment I have on my laptop). Then, the laptop light bar magnetically sticks to that. Now, anywhere I am working, I can have a replica of my full desk setup in a tear-down that can easily fit in a backpack. I also added a right-angle adapter to the end of the USB-C cable to pull my laptop close to the monitor and have the cable out of the way, but this is just a personal preference.

Plugable 15.6

(Image credit: Collin Probst // Future)

Plugable 15.6" Portable USB-C Monitor: Final verdict

The Plugable USB-C Portable Monitor stands out as an excellent tool for professionals seeking an extra screen. Its premium build, IPS display, and seamless connectivity make it a valuable asset for productivity and entertainment on the go. While its brightness limits outdoor use and the resolution may not be the best for graphic designers or video editors, it remains a solid choice for anyone in need of a versatile portable monitor.


For more display options, we've reviewed the best business monitors.

Eureka Aion ergonomic office chair review
3:45 pm |

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

The Eureka Aion Ergonomic Office Chair is produced by the company that released the futuristic-looking Eureka Serene and the Bond-Villan-esque Eureka Arc Standing Desk. The Aion looks relatively tame compared to those. However, the Aion has a few tricks up its metaphorical sleeve.

While the aforementioned pieces of furniture were more for the stereotypical executive professional, the Aion is a chair that could work for an executive office vibe, or it could fit in a conference room, home office, front desk, or closet desk hidden away.

Like so many of the best office chairs I've tested, the Aion is designed to cater to just about everyone, whether they are professionals, students, admin, or the CEO of a hedge fund. The focus here is not on design but on function and comfort with its high-back design, integrated headrest, breathable mesh, multiple adjustment features, and ergonomic support.

Eureka Aion Ergonomic Office Chair: Price and Availability

The Eureka Aion is available directly from Eureka Ergonomic's official website and other select retailers, though I'd suggest purchasing directly from Eureka. This chair can sometimes be under $400, though it's generally around $500. Eureka does offer regular deals and pay plans through Shop Pay if needed.

Eureka AION

(Image credit: Collin Probst // Future)

Eureka Aion Ergonomic Office Chair: Unboxing and First Impressions

Unboxing the Eureka Aion was pretty straightforward, though there were some steps that I wish I had a third hand for. The pieces themselves were well-packaged and arrived un-damaged -- which is always a great start -- and from the unboxing experience alone, I knew this would be a hefty chair.

Within the packaging comes the assembly kit of tools, spare parts, instructions, bolts, and such needed for the proper assembly. If you want to speed up assembly, I suggest using something like the Hoto Electric Screwdriver or even a simple drill (one that can adjust and not be on "drill" mode) with a bit set to help assemble quickly without damage. If not, the appropriate tools are included.

Assembling the seat took me about 20 minutes. Once I finished attaching the headrest as the final step, I could appreciate its sleek design and sturdy construction. It comfortably accommodates larger individuals while also being suitable for smaller people.

Eureka Aion Ergonomic Office Chair: Design and Build Quality

Specs

Material: Mesh backrest, padded seat
Adjustability: High backrest, tilt, lumbar support, and armrest
Weight capacity: Up to 300 lbs
Weight: 55 lbs
Features: Breathable design, ergonomic focus
Dimensions: 29.33”D x 28.74”W x 44.09” - 51.97”H
Recommended Height: 5'1" - 6'1"

The Eureka Aion has a minimalist aesthetic that fits well in professional and home-office environments alike. However, the adjustability within this chair is nothing short of maximalist. The high-back design offers complete spine support, while the mesh material promotes airflow to help prevent sweat during work sessions. The armrests are adjustable in three dimensions and can be raised for added comfort in various working positions. Additionally, the headrest is movable in two directions, allowing for further customization. The chair can recline up to 115 degrees, and the lumbar support can be adjusted to fit the natural curve of your back perfectly.

The Aion is constructed with durable components, ensuring long-term use without compromising comfort -- which is appreciated once you remember that this chair costs around $500.

Eureka AION

(Image credit: Collin Probst // Future)

Eureka Aion Ergonomic Office Chair: In use

This chair has been in my team's rotation of ergonomic offerings for a month now. So far, it has held up wonderfully, even for extended working sessions. It has been adjusted for multiple people, ranging in build, height, weight, and use. Some have found this chair to be great for long sessions at a desk working on their computer, while others have found it uniquely excellent for using a laptop on their lap. Yet still, some have noticed that if they prop the armrests up, it's incredibly comfortable for some phone time, reading a book, holding a controller, or taking notes on a tablet. Regardless of the use case, we all have agreed that this chair is great for lumbar support and adjustability.

Eureka AION

(Image credit: Collin Probst // Future)

I appreciate that Eureka chose highly breathable mesh. I have been a massive fan of this mesh backing and often opt for chairs with it since I usually run relatively warm. This mesh allows airflow to my back and lower half, ensuring I don't sweat (too much) during those high-intensity meetings, stressful deadlines, or intense gaming sessions.

Eureka AION

(Image credit: Collin Probst // Future)

Another element worth mentioning is that the tilt and height-adjustment mechanisms work smoothly, and the leavers make sense. Some chairs try to combine all of these into the smallest number of levers, which results in me spending more time adjusting my chair than actually enjoying my chair (dramatic, but you get the point). With the Eureka Aion, I could quickly gander at the levers, learn what adjustments each made, and then dial in from there.

Eureka AION

(Image credit: Collin Probst // Future)

Eureka Aion Ergonomic Office Chair: Final verdict

The Eureka Aion Ergonomic Office Chair is an excellent choice for users looking for a chameleon ergonomic solution that fits almost any working space. Eureka's focus on adjustability, durability, and back support with the Aion ergonomic chair makes it a standout product, though its price may limit its appeal to budget-conscious buyers. This chair delivers exceptional value and adjustability for those willing to invest in comfort and health.


For more workplace essentials, we've reviewed the best standing desks and the best office desks, too.

Dell Optiplex Micro Plus 7020 mini PC review
1:06 pm |

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

The Dell OptiPlex Micro Plus 7020 is designed for businesses that require a compact yet efficient workstation. Featuring 13th Gen Intel processors and DDR5 memory, it caters to multitasking professionals.

As with almost all the best mini PC devices we've reviewed, the micro form factor ensures seamless integration into tight workspaces without compromising performance or reliability. The Dell OptiPlex Micro Plus is impressive because you can specify it to fit your business needs. It can have an i5 or an i7 processor, it can have 16GB or 32GB DDR5 RAM, it can have 256GB or 512GB NVMe SSD Storage, you can opt for a wireless card adding Wi-Fi 6E and Bluetooth, or you can keep it wired, you can opt for a vPro Enterprise system management or not, and you can choose to include peripherals or not. That's a lot of options for a desktop I can hold in one hand.

I previously mentioned the business because this desktop is designed in every way for a "business" use case. This is not the computer you want for anything graphics-based. Nor is it anything you want for crazy heavy loads or processing. What this is great for, though, are workstations, admins, doctors' offices, front desks, simple desktop solutions that need to be clean, a solution mounted under a desk or behind a monitor, or something that needs to be portable on a cart. That's the kind of professional business this computer excels at, but it was designed from the internals to the case. Something that can be tucked away but relied on to perform crucial tasks for a business to operate.

Dell OptiPlex Micro Plus 7020: Price and Availability

The Dell OptiPlex Micro Plus 7020 starts in the base configuration without accessories at around $1,000. If you fully spec this model out, you can reach $1,530.01, according to Dell.com, without peripherals. Due to the customizability of this unit, I suggest ordering your OptiPlex Micro Plus 7020 from Dell. However, B&H Photo, as well as several other retailers, have pre-configured units available as well.

Dell | OptiPlex Micro Plus 7020

(Image credit: Collin Probst // Future)

Dell OptiPlex Micro Plus 7020: Unboxing and First Impressions

Though the desktop is tiny, my OptiPlex Micro Plus 7020 came in a box that could fit a standard keyboard had I ordered it with my computer. Within that box was some packing that kept the laptop secure and safe, along with the power supply and some essential documentation.

Right away, it's clear that this is a simple, professional, very Dell-looking desktop, and it looks good. It's simple, it's minimal, it's easy to use, and it has excellent port layout. It's compact, lightweight, sturdy, and ready to go to work right out of the gate.

Dell OptiPlex Micro Plus 7020: Design and Build Quality

Specs

Processor Options: Intel Core i5 to i7 (13th Gen).
Memory: Up to 32GB DDR5, 5600 MT/s .
Storage: M.2 PCIe NVMe SSDs up to 512GB.
Ports: 4x USB-A, 1x USB-C, 1x RJ45, 1x Headphone, 1x Mic, 3x DisplayPort, 1x Barrel Power,
Dimensions: 7.17 x 1.42 x 7.01 inches

The Dell OptiPlex Micro Plus 7020 is an ultra-compact, ultra-lightweight (under 2.5 lbs), easy-to-mount or hide desktop solution for professional use cases. This desktop can fit behind most monitors, under a desk, behind a plant, on a bookshelf, in a drawer, on a shelf, in a cabinet, or just about anywhere (even on a VESA mount). And, with the ability to output to three displays, this can run a pretty impressive setup for the size and price.

The build quality is robust and lightweight, making it something I'd be willing to have out where it could get bumped, knocked into, or used by people who are not as careful with technology as I am.

Dell | OptiPlex Micro Plus 7020

(Image credit: Collin Probst // Future)

Dell OptiPlex Micro Plus 7020: In use

The OptiPlex Micro Plus 7020 handles multitasking and business applications like a dream. It's fantastic at running multiple spreadsheets and multiple windows (or even monitors) of browser tabs; it can have charts pulled up, graphs, email, imaging, and so on. It's a great little machine for this kind of work, and even more so paired with being able to tuck that case just about anywhere.

This computer is not one you'll want to run high-intensity graphics on, no video editing, no pushing an entire LED wall worth of display, nor would I use this as a server for a security room to view a bunch of footage. I would have this be used for a front desk, an admin, a meeting room, a check-in, or the like. It's great for those classic office needs with limited demand for high-processing power.

Dell | OptiPlex Micro Plus 7020

(Image credit: Collin Probst // Future)

One major downfall in my book is the lack of HDMI and too few USB-C ports. Thankfully, there is one USB-C port, but with how commonplace that port is, I'm shocked not to see more. Then again, the average business workspace may not be up-to-date with technologies, but that will surely be a miss if they are. Secondly, if you want to push to a monitor via HMDI, you'll need an adapter from DisplayPort to HDMI since this computer has no native HDMI ports. This isn't the end of the world, but it's good to know if you are replacing a computer and keeping peripherals or buying a new one.

Dell | OptiPlex Micro Plus 7020

(Image credit: Collin Probst // Future)

Dell OptiPlex Micro Plus 7020: Final verdict

The Dell OptiPlex Micro Plus 7020 excels in providing business-grade performance in a compact design. Its robust build, security features, and extensive connectivity options make it a great choice for professional use. However, the lack of HDMI and minimal USB-C may limit some users.


For more performance-driven computing, we've tested out the best business computers and the best workstations.

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