Twotrees TTC450 Pro: 30 Second review

Like many CNC machines of this type, the Twotrees TTC450 Pro CNC router comes almost completely built, with only a few finishing touches needed before it's up and running.

However, when it comes to out-of-the-box usability, it's worth noting that CNC machines are not as straightforward as the best 3D printer or best laser engraver I've tried. Calibration must be done manually, but thankfully, Twotrees provides plenty of Wiki guides to walk you through the setup process and more details in the provided paper manual as well as on the USB that ships with the machine. You'll also need different types of software to operate the machine, and in this review, I utilised Easel for the CNC functions and Lightburn for the laser engraving, both paid-for versions.

When first starting, it's not easy if you're unused to CNC machines. Having used a few, I've found this to be the norm. Expect to spend time watching tutorial videos and calibrating the machine with the probe before achieving successful results; one of the key elements here is to note that you have to set the home point for every new material and enter both the height and size. However, once you follow the calibration process step-by-step, things begin to make sense—but do expect to spend some time head-scratching. As long as you secure your materials tightly using the nuts and bolts provided, you shouldn't encounter too many issues.

When it comes to use, the machine supports a good variety of materials and router tool bits, with the two router options and the laser engraving head. While it can handle thin, soft metals such as aluminium, it's not suited for machining tougher materials like steel. Like most home DIY CNC machines, the TTC450 Pro is primarily designed for woodworking and other softer materials.

The CNC's design is distinctly workshop-like, as with most machines of this type sporting an open frame. However, Twotrees has refined the design, adding an easy-to-use touchscreen that lets you access settings, recall previously loaded files, and manage calibration and maintenance. Both router options are high-quality and can be swapped out easily, taking around five minutes with the review sample. Two Trees also supplied the laser engraver head, which further adds to the appeal of the machine. For a normal-sized workshop, having a machine that can act as both types of machines is definitely an advantage, and the fact that it's built so solidly only boosts the laser engraving performance.

The TTC450 Pro, like all CNC machines, takes time to master. Don't expect to become an expert after one sitting. Spending time watching videos and learning how to use the software is essential, as is ensuring every bolt is kept tight. While I have aspirations for more advanced CNC work, my current projects on this machine have still produced some pretty decent results. After several weeks of familiarisation, I've found it to be one of the easier CNC machines to use, and overall, I've been impressed with the quality of the work that I can even produce. If you're looking for a machine for a small business or as a dedicated hobbyist, the TTC450 Pro is an excellent option. It's far easier to use than some DIY alternatives, especially given the price.

Twotrees TTC450 Pro: Price and Availability

The TTC450 Pro is widely available and can be purchased directly from the Twotrees website by clicking here, as well as from many DIY and online retailers.

Twotrees TTC450 Pro: Design

The design and build of the TTC450 Pro are simple, with an open-frame design that makes the mechanics of the machine nice and straightforward. When the TTC450 Pro arrives, you can literally just take it out of the box and assemble a few parts—mainly the crossbar, router, and screen—tighten everything up, and off you go. When the box arrived, it took me around 45 minutes to unpack, sort out all the parts, and get the machine into its initial working condition, slightly longer than anticipated but still not bad.

One early point to note about the build is that, while this is a smaller desktop machine, it is by no means small. Considering its footprint, which measures 742 x 689 x 413 mm, you'll need about a metre squared of desktop space to position the machine comfortably. A standard 60 cm width work surface won't suffice. After assembling the machine, I found I had to extend my workspace, which is typically dedicated to 3D printers and laser engravers that fit easily on standard kitchen-width surfaces. Like a few other CNC machines, including my main CNC machine, the TTC450 Pro requires considerably more space.

Additionally, and this is a serious consideration, the mess generated by this machine, particularly sawdust, will require a clear and contained area if you don't want mess spread throughout the room. There is a dust extraction system available for around $99, and I would highly recommend adding this to the purchase.

When it comes to weight, these are not light machines. Given that this machine spins at high speeds, its weight is actually an advantage. I've found it's a good idea to bolt CNC machines down to your work surface to reduce vibrations and achieve better results. Although this machine isn't enormous, it still weighs a significant 20.6 kg, so while one person can move it, it is heavy.

The machine is whole well thought out, with a touchscreen positioned on the left-hand side and the main router mounted on top. The workspace, measuring 460 x 460 x 80 mm, is a good size and the work base includes screw holes, making it easy to bolt down materials without needing to create your own.

As mentioned, the machine also supports a range of accessories, including the laser engraver and a cylindrical engraving attachment, along with a host of tool bits for the two different router options. Switching between the routers and the laser is quick, with bolted-in clamps holding the tools in place, so a single Allen key is all that's needed. It's not quite a quick release, but it's fast enough.

As for compatible materials, the TTC450 Pro can engrave plywood, MDF, solid wood, acrylic, carbon fibre, aluminium, copper, and even some thin stainless steel.

For file transfer, you can use USB, Wi-Fi, or a TF/microSD card. It's worth noting the Wi-Fi only supports 2.4 GHz rather than 5 GHz, and there's no Bluetooth, Ethernet, or USB flash drive support.

Twotrees TTC450 Pro: Features

When it comes to features, the TTC450 Pro is well-equipped for a CNC machine of this price. First and foremost, when the box arrived, the machine was mostly prebuilt. Assembly was relatively straightforward, and using the instructions provided, Two Trees estimates it will take around 10 minutes to construct. If you have ample space, I would imagine this is just about accurate, but if you're short on space, set aside around 45 minutes to unpack, organise, and clear enough room to lay everything out neatly. It's worth preparing your workspace beforehand.

A nice but also essential touch is that the TTC450 Pro includes features essential for the professional use of CNC as the safety stop feature. If something goes wrong, pressing this button halts all operations immediately.

Although the open-frame design has a somewhat DIY aesthetic, Two Trees has opted for a sleek aluminium frame. While not as refined as modern laser engravers or 3D printers, it's a significant improvement over the industrial-style CNC machines of the past. A 3.5-inch colour touchscreen makes navigating the machine far easier compared to many CNC systems that lack built-in screens or controls and usually solely rely on a connected PC to work.

Another nice touch is the fact that the tool head is dustproof, helping it stay cleaner for longer, and this could potentially improve its longevity; routers tend to break after a while due to debris entering the venting, so this design aspect is nice to see. As you look over the machine, you also notice that it features larger motors than you usually see on lighter-duty machines like 3D printers or laser engravers, again all helping to improve the longevity of the machine.

While the machine is considered small for a CNC, the build space is still pretty decent at 460 x 460 mm, with enough depth to handle many larger projects. The machine also features large 8mm gantry side plates that help add to the overall strength, and brass calibration nuts are used on the lead screws again to aid with the precision and durability of the machine.

A notable addition is the cylindrical engraving option, which is easy to set up and use, essentially bolting into the surface and plugging in. This works in much the same ways as the rotary options common with laser engravers and offers more creative options. However, as with other aspects of CNC use, there's a steep learning curve, and my attempts so far haven't been that successful. However, this is a user rather than a machine error.

One addition that I would have liked to test with the machine is the dual dust extraction system, which helps maintain a cleaner workspace. Without it, sawdust or metal debris scatters across your workshop. CNC machines are inherently messy, so investing in the dust extraction system is highly recommended if it's not included in your kit.

The TTC450 Pro supports a tool diameter range of 0.5 to 7 mm and uses an ER11-style chuck. It primarily relies on open-source GRBL firmware, which supports both CNC and laser use without requiring additional updates. For engraving, you can expect accuracy within ±0.05 mm, a maximum engraving speed of 800 mm/min, and a maximum acceleration of 1000 mm/s².

In terms of software support, it's compatible with programs like ArtFusion 360, Easel, and Carbide Create, among others that support the mainboard. The system accepts files.NC or G-code formats, depending on your preference.

Twotrees TTC450 Pro: Performance

Starting with the Two Trees TTC450 Pro CNC router does take a little time. While it's quick and easy to set up, and Two Trees estimates about 10 minutes for assembly, I found it took quite a bit longer. However, after clearing space and extending one of my work surfaces to accommodate the machine, it took about 45 minutes before I was ready to power on. Initially, I used the Mac system set up in my workshop, but a machine like this would also pair perfectly with a mini PC.

Once everything was connected, I used the Easel software package to control the TTC450 Pro. There are plenty of compatible CNC software options available, and many are open source and free, although these can be a bit more complex to set up and use. Once everything is set and before starting, you need to calibrate the machine to recognise the bit height using the included probe.

With your material placed on the build platform, you attach the probe on top of the material, plug the probe into the socket on the tool head, and connect the crocodile clip to the drill bit. Through the touchscreen interface, you select "Probe," and the machine lowers the tool head until the drill bit touches the probe. Once this is done, you're ready to begin CNC machining.

If you're accustomed to high-end laser engravers or 3D printers, you might expect almost completely automatic calibration. However, most CNCs, including TTC450 Pro, require far more manual input. This machine is more advanced than many others, but you still need the starting point for your CNC file. For example, using Easel, you load your CNC file into the software and connect it to the machine. Then, you run through the software prompts that give step-by-step instructions for what you need to do with the material and machine. Using Easel makes this process relatively straightforward as there are drivers and software presets pre-configured for the TTC450 Pro; using Candle or other applications, you'll need to configure everything from scratch.

Once your design is ready in Easel, you're ready to start the CNC machining. Unlike a 3D printer or laser engraver, where you simply press "print," CNC machining involves additional steps. Within the software, you select "Carve" and follow prompts to specify material thickness, type, and drill bit size, and then move the tool head position over the bottom left corner of the material. After confirming these settings, the machine checks the dimensions to ensure they stay within material boundaries.

The final screen provides a last-minute checklist. The first button lifts the tool head, the second and third buttons start the tool head spinning and confirm functionality, and finally, you press "Carve" to begin machining.

Once the machine starts, the default speed is slow and steady, but there's plenty of flexibility over this speed as you become more familiar with the machine and materials you're working with. While you shouldn't leave the machine unattended, it works exceptionally well and proved to be very reliable. For a CNC machine priced under £1,000, the quality of the output is exceptional. The build quality, high-quality lead screws, and rigid frame ensure precision throughout the test.

For projects that cut through materials, I recommend placing an additional sheet underneath to protect the build surface. Although switching to the laser cutter for cutting, most materials will usually do the job, and this is why the machine stands out: that fact that you have that versatility. It includes two different tool heads; the standard router supports a variety of materials, including wood, metal, plastics, and carbon fibre sheets. For larger wood projects, you can mount a more powerful router, which allows for intricate and large-scale work. A laser cutter head is also available for tasks like 2D shapes. Switching heads takes about 5 minutes to unbolt, replace, and recalibrate, which is relatively quick. However, there's the case of updating firmware to make the switch; this takes a further five minutes or so and is definitely an area of the machine that could do with a bit of a tweak, as some technical knowledge is required. It took me a few attempts to get the hand of the process so while it's relatively straight forward it can prove a little perplexing at first.

Having three different tool heads offers significant flexibility. The rotary tool, included in the box, is another accessory with steep learning curves. Although my initial results were underwhelming, this was due to user error rather than machine limitations. The dust extraction vacuum accessory, which I didn't have for this review, is a must-have, and through this test, I've been using an extraction system from a larger machine, you'll see in the image the result of using nothing!

The TTC450 Pro relies on open-source or third-party software. While this allows broad compatibility, there isn't a single, unified software solution like Snapmaker offers, which, for those starting out again, adds to the learning curve. For CNC work, Easel is ideal, while laser engraving requires software like LightBurn. Fortunately, these applications are straightforward, and many users will already be familiar with them, as they are widely used in other CNC and laser engravers.

Twotrees TTC450 Pro: Final verdict

When it comes to performance, the Twotrees TTC450 Pro is a surprisingly good multi-use machine at an exceptional price. There are many aspects to like about it. First and foremost is the design. Its open frame makes it very easy to use and manoeuvre. The size is relatively large, and you may need to extend a work surface to accommodate it slightly. However, it's comparable with most larger laser engravers and other small CNC machines.

What sets the TTC450 Pro apart from many other CNC machines of this style and type is its build quality. Two trees have taken it up a notch from the usual extruded aluminium and open-frame designs. While it still follows the same fundamental technology and design principles, Two Trees has ensured that the quality of its parts and components is a step above, and because of this, it has a more professional feel compared to other CNC machines at this price.

When it comes to setup and assembly, Two Trees suggests 10–15 minutes. However, I would recommend allowing 45 minutes to an hour to familiarise yourself with all the components and parts. It's also good to take your time and ensure all bolts and screws are tightened properly, as any looseness will affect the quality of your CNC results.

One slight issue I found during assembly was that, while the instructions lay out exactly where everything goes, some cables are only just long enough to reach their connectors, requiring some fiddling to get everything into place. Additionally, a minor annoyance is that the bolts are of different sizes, meaning frequent changes between Allen keys. It's not a major problem, but it can be a little frustrating during assembly.

Once the machine is built and ready to start a CNC project, there is a steep learning curve, particularly if you've never used a CNC machine before. For those new to CNC, I highly recommend Easel software. It's straightforward to use, and you should get excellent results relatively quickly. The setup process is relatively simple, and the Easel software provides a step-by-step guide to get started, which is incredibly helpful for beginners. There is also a good level of resources available online, written in an accessible way that doesn't assume prior knowledge—unlike many other CNC applications.

The Twotrees TTC450 Pro is an entry-level CNC, but it's also an extremely powerful one considering its price. While it's a great starting point for beginners, it will also appeal to experienced users, such as those in small businesses or looking for a desktop solution. My advice for anyone purchasing this machine is to also invest in the vacuum attachment. As with any CNC machine, a lot of waste is produced, and without a vacuum, that debris will spread throughout the room.

For the money, the TTC450 Pro is a superb option, offering plenty of flexibility with its three tool head options. These allow you to machine a wide variety of materials and use the machine as either a laser engraver or a CNC router. In my opinion, it's one of the best options on the market at present.

Should you buy the Twotrees TTC450 Pro? 

The Doogee S200 is a heavyweight rugged phone - and I mean heavyweight. I weighed this beast at 369g, and it feels it in the hand. Bold, chunky, and the absolute opposite of unassuming as a phone can be. But then, that’s what you want from a ruggedized phone. You want it to feel like it can take a battering, survive a long drop.

On that score, the S200 certainly looks and feels the part. How does it measure up in terms of robustness and durability against the best rugged phones my team and I regularly review? I put it to the test.

Doogee S200: Price & availability

• How much does it cost? $412 / £326
• When is it out? Available now
• Where can you get it? Doogee, Amazon

The Doogee S200 is widely available from the official site (click here) and Amazon. On the official Doogee site, it retails for $412 / £326, which puts it at the upper-end of the mid-range compared to rivals.

• Value: 4 / 5

Doogee S200: Specifications

Doogee S200: Design

There’s something delightfully futuristic about the design of the Doogee S200, with its hard lines and poker-straight cutaway edges. Like it’s been built by robots. Specifically, those created by Skynet.

The front screen is protected by the ubiquitous Corning Gorilla Glass - not the hardiest of all screens, but acceptable at this price. A 20MP front camera is centrally placed at the top of the display. Where the buttons and ports rest along the side, we have screwed-in alloy strips to offer extra protection to these moving (or rather, moveable) parts and resist bending under pressure. I quite like the feel of these buttons - they’re almost flush against the phone, thick in appearance, but with a soft, springy feel when depressed - so you know your press has been registered, even without looking. Better still, on the left side, beneath the dual SIM card port is a custom button, which can be personalized for three selected quick actions for one click, double-click, and long press. At the bottom, you’ll find the charging port, suitably covered with a rubber gasket to guard against dust and leaks.

Flip over the phone and the rear is equally aggressive in design. with the speaker and microphone shielded by aerospace-grade alloy casing cut with what look like exhaust ports of the sort you might find on a mobile workstation or gaming PC. Dominating this space is the 1.32in circular AMOLED screen. And it’s one of the best features of the phone. Bright and vivid, this display can be used as a clock-face, act as a compass, and more. Flanking this screen are three cameras and an infra-red flash lamp.

So, we know the S200 feels heavy in the hand, and with dimensions of 179.5 x 82.5 x 16mm (7.07 x 3.25 x 0.63in), you’re going to need large hands to fully wrap around the device. I have considerably average-sized hands, and found the most comfortable holding position was to have the phone laying flat against my fingers, with the tips peeking around the side. This isn’t the most secure hold, of course, but otherwise operating the S200 worked well in this position.

In terms of protection, the Doogee S200 is rated for IP68, IP69K, and MIL-STD 810. This is pretty standard for most of the rugged phones we’ve tested here, making it dust-proof, waterproof, and drop-proof.

• Design: 4 / 5

Doogee S200: Performance

Running on Android 14, I found performance to be excellent. I’m always a bit wary of rugged phones, which can sometimes focus more on the hardware than the software. It’s all very well being able to hurl the phone at a brick wall or see it run over by a steamroller, but if operation is sluggish, it’s enough to make you want to cut it up with a chainsaw.

Thankfully, those issues aren’t apparent in the Doogee S200. Performance is smooth, apps open quickly, and I experienced no problems in everyday operation. But then, I expected good results here, since the phone is specced with a Mediatek Dimensity 7050 processor and 32GB RAM (my review unit came with the maximum 32GB, although 12GB RAM is the base amount - still more than enough to power most apps and general use).

The 6.72in screen here is also very nice to use. Boasting a 1080x2400 resolution and 1400:1 contrast ratio that is excellent in dark environments and outdoors in direct sunlight. It even features a 120Hz refresh rate, making it suitable for on-the-go gaming. There’s also a Game Mode, which sounds good, but does little beyond keeping your games in a library and turning off notifications.

In any case, I downloaded a handful of games to see if the phone could keep up when reaction time is a factor. Call of Duty Mobile played flawlessly here, as did Mario Kart Tour. These more or less mirrored tests on a Google Pixel 5. However, during Need for Speed: No Limits there were occasional frame-rate drops and lagging when the screen became busy or animations were too fast. Still, the high refresh rate is a nice extra where available to have, and much higher than you’ll find on most traditional phones. Just set realistic expectations here - you do not have a rugged Steam Deck in your hands.

Finally, the S200 sports a 10100 mAh battery. Not the biggest battery I’ve seen in a phone like this, and I would’ve liked to see wireless charging to round-out the package. But it’s good for general use, especially when combined with the 33W fast-charging.

• Performance: 4 / 5

Doogee S200: In use

As a rugged phone, the Doogee S200 performs exactly as you’d expect. I’ve hurled it down stairs and out of first-floor windows and drowned it in the bath, and it’s still chugging along. It’s rated to a 1.8m drop, which isn’t particularly high but offers some protection should it slip from a gloved hand. I tested out a drop at this height, and the phone survived as expected. I chanced my arm, tossing it higher, the phone falling further. There were no visible signs of wear, but I probably wouldn’t want to do this too often. The Doogee S200 feels rugged only up to a point. A rowdy brawler, but not a tank.

As a smartphone, it performs well and without issue. Connectivity, which includes Wi-Fi 6 and NFC, is also welcome. Out of the box, the phone is loaded with a range of apps and extras designed for on-site work. This includes Glove Mode, located in Settings, and the Toolbag App. It's here where you can access a range of essential worksite tools, such as compass, ruler, and digital spirit level. I particularly like this, as it means the phone is ready for the jobsite straight away, no messing about.

I quite enjoyed the addition of the rear circular subscreen. Though not a game-changer by any means, I appreciated the ability to glance at the clock regardless of which way I was holding the S200. Alongside the time, it felt very smooth swiping through the other options on the subscreen, such as music player controls and calendar. Disappointingly, as far as I could tell, there’s no way to customize which apps are displayed here. Through the MiniScreen Subscreen Settings, you’re free to set a range of clock faces - I went for analogue in this sea of digital - or make your own. It’s basic, but fun. You can also change how to wake the miniscreen.

I found the 100MP camera is nice - not the highest megapixel camera around, but distinctly higher than many devices we’ve tested from rivals like Oukitel, where 64MP is more common. Elsewhere, the night vision camera proved exceptional and, for many workers, I can see this becoming a go-to mid-range rugged phone for this feature alone. Gaming and media playback was good, with colors crisp and vivid on the fair-sized screen. However, I did find the speakers only adequate - these are the typical tinny phone speakers, the smartphone standard, with very little bass. Overall, in use, the Doogee S200 delivered exactly the sort of experience I’d expect from a phone of this price and in this category.

• In use: 4 / 5

Doogee S200: Final verdict

The Doogee S200 is, very literally, a solid smartphone, built for rugged use. True, the specs aren’t the toughest and hardiest out there - and for genuinely hostile environments, I’d think twice about taking it on the job. However, for general use on worksites, or hiking and camping, the S200 is more than robust enough. Yes, it’s big and heavy - that’s part of its charm, alongside the cyber-futuristic mecha-style design, its sliced corners and exposed rivets on the side. If you want a phone that’s durable, built to go up against the elements, and still looks great doing it, there’s a lot to recommend here.

Should you buy a Doogee S200?

Buy it if...

Don't buy it if...

For more durable devices, we reviewed the best rugged tablets, the best rugged laptops, and the best rugged hard drives

These days, my life is full of technology. Depending on the trip, I have my iPhone, Apple Watch, iPad Mini, MacBook Pro, my wife's iPhone, Kindle, kids' tablets, and a smart power station or two. That's a lot of internet-connected gear when on the go. Not only is it annoying to have to put in a new password for whatever location you are at, but it's also incredibly insecure.

Over the last few years, I have stopped connecting to public Wi-Fi, or Wi-Fi, which is not secure altogether. I'll frequently tether to my iPhone if I am just on one device. But, when I start pulling out multiple devices or if my iPhone cell service isn't excellent (I'm looking at you, Verizon), I look for a strong and probably ok public Wi-Fi and connect to it, but not with my devices, with my portable router. I do this, plus a VPN to help ensure that my information stays my information, and this little travel router is how I do it.

Can this tiny travel router compare with the best Wi-Fi routers out there? I put the pocket-sized TP-Link TL-WR1502X Wi-Fi 6 Travel Router to the test.

TP-Link Wi-Fi 6 Travel Router: Price and Availability

The TP-Link Wi-Fi 6 Travel router is available all over the place. You can find it on the TP-Links website, Amazon, or other retailers. When writing this sentence, the price is $60 for a single unit.

TP-Link Wi-Fi 6 Travel Router: Unboxing and First Impressions

When I opened the box for this router, I immediately noticed how simple everything was. This router seemed too small and too basic-looking to be able to do everything that it was doing. It's lightweight, with a sleek and durable build. The router, a power adapter, a USB-C cable, a quick start guide, and a simple ethernet cable came in the box.

The compact design is easy enough to tuck in any bag, pocket, or jacket. The unit as a whole can fit in the palm of my hand. Right now, I carry it with me daily in my backpack. And I'm particular about what I am willing to put in my backpack, so that's a big deal for me to tuck it away. I love the matte black finish and the built-in ventilation, as it helps keep the device from overheating.

Lastly, the port offering is impressive for a small unit, and the ports are placed great on the device, making it easy to use and work with.

TP-Link Wi-Fi 6 Travel Router: Design and Build Quality

As I have mentioned, this device is incredibly portable. Still, it's also quite sturdy, making it a great travel companion because I don't have to worry about it breaking on me. I've had this in my everyday carry backpack that goes everywhere with me for the last few months, and I have not had any issues with this getting damaged or slowing down. It keeps working and working great every time.

TP-Link Wi-Fi 6 Travel Router: In use

So far, I have gotten a lot of use out of this little travel router. I've had it with me for a few months now and am thrilled to have it. The older I get, and as time goes on, the more and more paranoid I get about my physical and digital security. In the digital world, one of the things I have sworn not to do anymore is to connect to networks that I do not know or do not manage myself. However, sometimes that is the only option. That's where my travel router comes into play for one of the many use cases I have it for. I can quickly flip a switch and connect to that coffee shop, VRBO, airport, or even airplane Wi-Fi with my router, throw a VPN on, and then connect with my devices. My work and sensitive information, like bank cards and sensitive documents, are accessible through my Macbook. It would be wild for me not to protect it.

Another way that I have been using my travel router is to connect non-apple devices to my iPhone hotspot or direct USB tether. Most of what I have with me on any given day is Apple; however, for the times that I am testing a different laptop, if I have the Nintendo Switch with me, a portable projector if the kids have a gadget or something like that, this makes it super easy to have specific travel Wi-Fi saved on their devices that they can connect to that isn't just always my phone.

I have noticed smooth and fast connections when using the Wi-Fi, even from a decent distance away. For example, we stayed at a VRBO rental a few weeks back. I did not want to connect to the provided Wi-Fi, so I connected the ethernet cables to my TP-Link Travel router and ran that as a main router for a week. It worked great across the entire home, with all my devices connected. It handled (up to) five iPhones, two MacBooks, eight iPads, two Apple Watches, and a sound machine/night light, all without skipping a beat.

The only gripe I have with this router is that it takes a minute to boot up, so if I am in a hurry, it can be frustrating to wait for it to boot up and get working. However, if that's my only frustration, that makes for a pretty incredible device.

TP-Link Wi-Fi 6 Travel Router: Final verdict

The TP-Link AX1500 Wi-Fi 6 Travel RoutWi-Filivers top-tier performance in a travel-friendly package. With its fast speeds, modern security, and versatile features like VPN and USB tethering, it's a must-have for anyone needing reliable internet access wherever they go. While it's priced slightly higher than some competitors, its advanced functionality justifies the investment for frequent travelers or remote workers.

For more connectivity tools, we reviewed the best mesh Wi-Fi systems

Back in July 2023, I reviewed the Oakywood Custom Standing Desk. Almost a year and a half later, Oakywood released the upgraded version. They call this the Oakywood Standing Desk Pro. Its groundbreaking custom designing tool is now a staple in its product line, and the company has gone about upgrading a few areas of the aforementioned Oakywood Custom Standing Desk to make it an even better desk - believe it or not.

But before I delve into that, it's worth noting that as the desire and demand for ergonomic solutions in professional workspaces and unique home offices continue to increase, an issue in sizing continues to arise. Run-of-the-mill sizing doesn't always work for those unique basements, side rooms, corners of bedrooms, and dedicated home offices. They don't even always fit in professional offices.

So, Oakywood set out to solve that issue by using their custom sizing. They have this Standing Desk Pro if you need a "normal" to "large" desk. If you have a smaller space to fill, they have the Standing Desk Pro Mini. Both can be customized to fit your space and have the exact grommets, accessories, and colorways. There's something about getting to customize every aspect of your desk that is incredibly satisfying. All this customization comes at a price, but so does having a desk that doesn't fit - I'll let you decide which price you want to pay. Want to see how the new upgrade compares to the best standing desks I've reviewed? I put this one to the test.

Oakywood Standing Desk Pro: Price and Availability

The base configuration of the Oakywood Standing Desk Pro starts at $1,190 and can climb quickly when you kit it out with accessories and sizing. If I max out the pricing, I can get the Oakywood Standing Desk Pro up to $3,390 without accessories. Speaking of accessories, Oakywood sells great desk shelves, MagSafe stands, cable management, laptop stands, and desk mats.

Oakywood can ship globally, but remember that if you are customizing a desk, they need time to rally to build and custom-cut your desk and then ship it out. Those lead times can be up to 9 weeks, but customizing a hunk of beautiful walnut into a desk takes time to get it right. You can run to Target or shop on Amazon for a cheap desk or a desk now.

Another thing that is super impressive and shows the kind of company that Oakywood is is that they promote pricing transparency. They have a diagram that showcases just where your dollar spent with them goes, making you feel a bit better knowing that your money is going to a good place.

Oakywood Standing Desk Pro: Unboxing and First Impressions

Most of the time, my first impressions of a desk start when I get it and frequently as soon as I unbox it. However, based on the online editor tools, I can state my first impressions of this desk. I could not wait to get my hands on my custom desk, especially after trying the newer grommet options and choosing a solid walnut desk with complementing accessories.

The packaging was compact and well-organized, making it incredibly easy to unpack. This desk came in a box that was screwed shut and not just taped shut, which I appreciated knowing that it helped protect my custom desk. The boxes contained the desktop, adjustable steel frame legs, a control panel, assembly tools, and the cables needed.

Right away, I loved the premium finish on the wood, the robust build quality, and how easy this was to build. It took only minutes, unlike most desks, which take significantly longer.

Oakywood Standing Desk Pro: Design and Build Quality

I chose a Solid Walnut desk, though they also have solid oak, oak and walnut veneer, and black-stained oak. If you're interested in the veneer tabletops, they are finished with eco-friendly oil wax and are much lighter and cheaper than the solid wood variants.

All around, the desk is minimal, and I love that. It's a beautiful art piece in and of itself. It's a finely crafted piece of wood that looks good on its own, not to mention once it's staged with other beautiful gear.

The desk can raise and lower quickly and quietly, making it perfect for pretty much any space; no worries about whether it will be too loud.

Oakywood Standing Desk Pro: In use

This desk was exactly what I was hoping it would be. It's clean, professional, sleek, works great, is high quality, and looks gorgeous. This quickly became my dedicated iPad desk, which I shared with another team member. However, without getting too specific on my use case, what matters is that this desk works wonderfully. The grommet built into the desk is great for hiding cables, whether you have a desk shelf or not. Without it, it's a great cable catch, too. With a desk shelf, it works excellent to route cables where they need to go (like in the back of a monitor.

The controller for raising and lowering the desk is pretty sleek. It's a handle and display in the same piece. Lift the little knob, and the desk goes up; push it down, and you guessed it, it goes down. Within the knob is a display that reads out the height as well. What's brilliant is that you can move to a saved preset with a double click.

I'm 6'2" and the other reviewer that tried this desk is about 6'3". The Oakywood Standing Desk Pro not only can reach our preferred standing height, but it's also still stable at that height, which is terrific.

Lastly, I threw this desk on casters, which I do for most of my desks. Caster wheels make for a super easy transition if (let's be honest... when) I decide to change something up. I can roll the desk away from the wall, make my adjustments, and then roll it back. Or, in the case of a multi-purpose room, if that room needs to be used for something other than an office, the desk can roll right out without any worries or damage.

Oakywood Standing Desk Pro: Final verdict

The Oakywood Standing Desk Pro combines aesthetics, sustainability, and ergonomic functionality, making it an excellent choice for modern workspaces. Although its premium pricing and custom order lead times may not appeal to everyone, it's a worthwhile option for those looking to make a long-term investment in their workspace.

For more workplace essentials, we reviewed the best office chairs and best office desks.

Standing desks have bloomed and become ever-so-popular over the last few years. There are so many companies making them, so many differ

The Eureka Ergonomic Arc Standing Desk is an impressive blend of standout design and practicality. It's very action-movie-secondary-character-desk-esque looking. However, it also has features that make this big, bold desk even better. It has soft, closed drawers, power in the desktop, adjustable height, drawers, and unique legs that make it look like any of the best office desks we've seen for executives.

Further, as remote work becomes increasingly popular, it will redefine modern professional life, raising the demand for versatile, ergonomic, and stylish office furniture. A standout in this evolving landscape, the Eureka Ergonomic 63" Executive Standing Desk delivers an ideal combination of functionality and sophistication. With its striking walnut veneer finish, smooth motorized height adjustment, and thoughtful features like soft-close drawers and a freestanding desktop riser, this desk elevates your work-from-home experience. In short, this desk blends practicality with style for professionals who want a standout desk that helps them stay productive.

How does it compare to the best standing desks I've reviewed? I put this intriguing workspace furniture to the test.

Eureka Arc: Price and Availability

The Eureka Arc is priced at $2,499.99, though it's currently discounted to $1,699.99 and is available through Eureka Ergonomic's website. Delivery takes about 6-8 days on average, though this timeline and shipping cost can change based on where the desk is delivered. It's also worth noting that my Arc got delivered to me on a pallet. It's not a huge deal, but it's worth preparing for, especially if you need a place to unpack the pallet to carry the desk and boxes to where they need to go.

Eureka Arc: Unboxing and First Impressions

As mentioned above, the Arc comes in two packages within a wooden crate that helps protect the packaging overall. I was shocked to see this as I have reviewed a lot of desks and fancy desks, and I had yet to see this level of care in packaging until this desk. All the parts were well protected within the box and the crate. Each piece has foam layers to help the fragments within each box not rub against one another and get damaged or damaged from any damage on the boxes.

Once unboxed, building the desk was pretty simple. Most pieces were pre-assembled, at least partially, so building took little time, and it could have been easier.

The desk itself has a very mid-century modern design. Think the far-flung futurism of Dune meets professional ergonomics. The legs are near trapezoid-shaped, and the desk is thick with built-in drawers, power, and a walnut veneer. All in all, this desk is hefty. It's solid and feels like it will last a lifetime. One fascinating look and the right call is that the trapezoidal legs stay on the ground when the desktop rises. I'm still determining what I expected, but seeing it the first couple of times is super interesting.

Eureka Arc: Design and Build Quality

The Eureka Ergonomic Arc Standing Deks has a walnut veneer finish and a design that makes it stand out among the plethora of desks I have reviewed. With their extra design, the desk legs provide further stability and an eye-catching design. The built-in drawers also feature soft close gliders, adding to the premium feel. One thing that I wish this desk had, that I recently experienced for the first time with the SecretLab Magnus Pro Standing desk, is power in the leg column so that then you can have even cleaner cable management, with no dangling cables to plug in power (and maybe even ethernet).

Eureka Arc: In use

My team and I have used this desk in our desk rotation for the last few months. In fact, one of my team members has claimed this as his favorite desk, thanks to the Dune-esque styling. So far, this desk has had very smooth height adjustments, allowing for quick transitions from standing to sitting and back up to standing, and even at my standing height (I'm 6'2" tall), I don't notice any wobble.

For the setup we have on this desk, we only have one monitor, though if you wanted to, you could easily add a couple of monitors, which is great for versatility and changing desk setups.

Another thing that we have grown to appreciate is the built-in power supply on top of the desk. You could use this to power things on your desk, such as the monitor. However, I prefer this for the "oh I need to charge this thing" or other one-offs or "non-permenant" items to help the desk appear generally tidy.

All around, this desk has been excellent. It's not for everyone. However, it is a wonderful desk for most people. It only comes down to style and whether you like bold design choices. If you do, this desk is an expensive and beautiful addition to any workspace that should last for years.

Eureka Arc: Final verdict

The Eureka Ergonomic 63" Executive Standing Desk offers a premium experience for professionals who value aesthetics and functionality. Its sturdy build, smooth motorized adjustments, and luxurious finish make it a standout option in the high-end desk market. While the price and minor design flaws might deter some, this desk delivers exceptional value for those willing to invest in quality.

For more workplace essentials, we reviewed the best office chairs.