Integral Ultima Pro 1.5TB: One-minute review

Considering that this MicroSD card is quite literally the size of your thumbnail, the 1.5TB of storage it contains is unbelievable. However, while such an amount of storage might have seemed excessive a year or two ago, with the prevalence of game save data and screen capture, as well as the latest digital cameras and other media devices becoming increasingly storage-hungry, this increase in capacity is welcome.

As the card is small, there's really little to it outwardly, except that in the blister pack comes the small MicroSD card and a standard SD card adapter. This means that it is compatible not only with mobile phones but also with cameras, drones, consoles, and computers.

The size means that there isn't much room for design aside from the basic branding, speed ratings, and capacity. As this card adheres to all MicroSD card standards, the size and design are set to ensure compatibility.

In the tests, the card was used in both DJI drones and GoPro Hero12 Black action cameras, which had easy compatibility for each and were able to keep up with the 4K video data capture demands that these devices required. We've tested many of the best MicroSD cards, and there were a few older action cameras where the card was inserted but not recognized, so it's worth checking the capacity limit for the device; however, all recent releases worked without issue.

In use, the card kept up with recording 4K video on the GoPro Hero12 Black without issue, and the V30 class rating was more than sufficient for the task.

In the speed tests, it's possible to see where this card's performance lies; compared to the latest high-speed cards, the V30 rating is a little slower than the latest V60 or V90 cards. But then, you have all that capacity, and most devices that take MicroSD cards don't process the amount of data that the faster cards can currently cope with.

The Integral Ultima Pro 1.5TB is also exceptionally well priced when compared to the competition, so unless you require really high-speed transfer rates, this card will more than meet the demands. At an outstanding price, there really is little not to like about this one.

Integral Ultima Pro 1.5TB: Pricing and availability

• How much does it cost? $154
• When is it available? Now
• Where can you get it? It is available for sale in the US, UK and Australia

The Integral Ultima Pro 1.5TB microSDXC UHS-I Card is available in different capacities, including 1.5TB, 1TB, 512GB, 256GB, and 128 GB. The 1.5TB version looked at in this review is ideal for Action cameras, drones, gaming devices, smartphones, and tablets and is available for purchase at Amazon. 

The card is widely available, but the price may vary. It can be purchased from retailers such as Amazon.

• Value: 4/5

Integral Ultima Pro 1.5TB: Benchmark

The Integral Ultima Pro 1.5TB microSD card performed well in the benchmark tests, nearing its maximum read speed of 100MB/s and exceeding the expected write speed of 50MB/s. In all tests, it consistently achieved read and write speeds around 90MB/s and 85MB/s, respectively, demonstrating a decent ability to handle large files both in capture and playback when it comes to video. 

Integral Ultima Pro 1.5TB: Specs

Integral Ultima Pro 1.5TB: Build and Handling

The Integral Ultima Pro 1.5TB microSDXC UHS-I Card conforms to the small-form-factor MicroSD format, which is favoured by mobile devices, action cameras, tablets, game consoles, and drones. Measuring 71.5 x 43.5 x 8mm and weighing just 1 gram, its build and handling adhere to standard conventions.

The exterior is plastic, featuring the Integral logo, Video speed class, and older speed class ratings of U3 and Class 10, which signify its capability to meet the demands of most devices. For mobile device users, the card's compliance with the A2 standard assures that the data access speed is sufficient for most applications.

Although designed for versatile use and compatible with various devices, the card's subdued colour and minimal text suggest a primary design focus for mobile device usage rather than for action cameras, drones, or consoles. This is less about speed and more because, in these latter devices, the card is frequently moved from the device to a computer, and brightly coloured cards are preferred to aid in locating them if dropped.

A noteworthy design element is the UHS-I interface, identifiable by the single row of connectors. While most devices support UHS-I rather than UHS-II, this distinction is important for ensuring compatibility.

• Design: 4/5

Integral Ultima Pro 1.5TB: Performance

The packaging and literature for this card highlight its design for use with tablets, phones, action cameras, drones, and gaming, which just about covers all bases. However, upon examining the design, capacity, and speed, this card excels as a mass storage solution for mobile devices.

The primary reason for this suitability is the need for colour; as any action camera or drone user will know, a brightly coloured MicroSD card is essential, as anything less is prone to be dropped and lost.

The small Integral Ultima Pro 1.5TB card fits without issue into various devices, including drones, cameras, and phones. It is easily recognized and formatted on all modern devices. In use, there are no issues, and the card's write speed keeps up with the demands of cameras and devices as required.

When reviewing images and footage, the card's access speed matched its write speed, enabling smooth video-on-demand playback.

In benchmarking tests, the Integral Ultima Pro 1.5TB microSD card performed better than expected. Integral highlights a read speed of up to 100MB/s and a write speed of 50MB/s on the card's packaging and product page. Speeds reached up to 97.88 MB/s for reading and 89.31 MB/s for writing in CrystalDiskMark results, nearly hitting the upper limit and exceeding the quoted write speed. This level of speed ensured that high-definition video from the DJI Mavic 3 Pro and GoPro Hero12 Black was recorded and played back smoothly, proving the card's suitability for action cameras and drones and its ideal use as a storage solution for mobile devices like smartphones and tablets.

The card's performance in AJA, ATTO, and AS SSD benchmarks, with read and write speeds around the 90 MB/s and 85 MB/s marks, respectively, further highlighted its reliability in handling large files. This makes it particularly effective for managing a broad array of media files, from 4K videos to high-resolution photographs and extensive music collections for those not streaming.

• Performance: 3.5/5 

Should I buy the Integral Ultima Pro 1.5TB?

1.5TB of storage on such a small card is hard to believe, yet the Integral handles that storage with ease and provides decent performance and plenty of storage capacity. 

While this card has decent transfer speeds, it is limited by the V30 class, which it far exceeds in the tests; however, it's worth bearing in mind that over sustained and continual use, the performance and the speeds seen in this test will not be guaranteed. So if you need fast, quick access, then this card is outstanding, and while it will cope with transfer speeds that push the card's abilities, if you need that performance, you should be looking at a V60 or V90 card.

If you're looking to store and access large data files, the Integral Ultima Pro 1.5TB is a well-balanced option offering fast access and transfer speeds, which will ultimately reduce your time spent waiting for files to open or transfer. Whether it's for professional use, where quick access to large project files is crucial, or for personal use, where seamless media playback and transfer are required, this card meets the demands of most users.

1.5TB of storage on such a small card is hard to believe, yet the Integral Ultima Pro handles that storage with ease, providing decent performance and ample storage capacity.

While this card has decent transfer speeds, it is limited by the V30 class, which it far exceeds in tests. However, the performance and speeds seen in these tests may not be guaranteed over sustained use. So, if you need fast, quick access, this card is outstanding, but if you require consistently high performance, you should consider a V60 or V90 card.

If you're looking to store and access large data files, the Integral Ultima Pro 1.5TB is a well-balanced option offering fast access and transfer speeds. This will ultimately reduce the time you spend waiting for files to open or transfer. Whether it's for professional use, where quick access to large project files is crucial, or for personal use, where seamless media playback and transfer are required, this card meets the demands of most users.

How I tested the Lexar Play microSDXC 1TB

For this test the card was used in several different devices all of which support the exFAT. Before starting this test the card was reformated to give the greatest compatibility for the real world tests and also for testing through the benchmarking software.

The softare used included the latest versions of CrystalDiskMark, Atto, AS SSD and AJA benchmarks, noting the best scores achieved in each. They are all free and can be downloaded by anyone. After the standard benchmarks I then use the card in a variety of tech, including a GoPro Hero12 Black, Insta360 Ace Pro and DJI Mavic 3 to ensure compatibility and performance over a sustained period. I then transfer a folder of files, roughly 10GB in size, to get a rough idea of real life performance. 

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OWC ThunderBay Flex 8: 30-second review

Working with the latest cameras, both stills and video is an expensive business. OK, the hardware is a known outlay, but then you have to consider the files these cameras produce and where to store them. While larger studios may be well-equipped with IT engineers who will sort out your server rack and storage, in a small photo or video studio, it's usually left to the individual.

That's where the OWC ThunderBay Flex 8 comes into play, as a fully configurable all-in-one storage solution with both the capacity for fast access and archival storage, albeit also fast access. Essentially, the OWC ThunderBay Flex 8 is a RAID-ready enclosure with eight bays for storage media. This media can be configured in any way you like, with a mix of SSD and HDD drives; for example, our review sample shipped with four 2TB SSD drives configured as a Stripe RAID 0 and four 4TB HDDs in RAID 5.

This configuration works on two levels: the first is that the NVMe SSD part gives you fast access, and the HDD part gives you slightly slower access. Then both are configured in RAID so that rather than multiple drives, you just have two, one for fast access and the other to back everything up on. In an ideal scenario, you'd have two more solutions, one NAS with even greater storage kept elsewhere on site and, finally, a cloud storage solution such as Backblaze.

Once the drives are inserted and configured using the OWC SoftRAID 8.0 software, you're set to go. This software must be registered at the time of purchase, and after the initial three years, it can be purchased separately.

In use, the enclosure is incredibly quick, matching the speed of my internal MacBook Pro SSD with ease and enabling the fast, lag-free editing of 4K video in any of the best video editing software. In our tests, Final Cut Pro, DaVinci Resolve, and Premiere Pro, all worked without a glitch. What's really impressive is that over a sustained period, the storage is always ready and data is easy and fast to access. It's also nice that the entire system is so simple; for the complexity of the storage solution that it offers, there really is very little to it.

If you're in the video business and need a solid storage solution for the best video editing PCs, the OWC ThunderBay Flex 8 offers both fast-access working storage and large-scale backup storage. An outstanding choice. 

OWC ThunderBay Flex 8: Price & availability

The OWC ThunderBay Flex 8 is widely available and can be purchased as an empty enclosure or configured with the drive configuration that suits your needs. Along with the enclosure, you also receive the superb SoftRAID software, which enables you to configure the drives exactly as needed and in the RAID configuration that best suits your work requirements. This software must be registered at the time of purchase, and after the initial three years, it can be purchased separately.

• Score: 4/5

OWC ThunderBay Flex 8: Design & build

The OWC ThunderBay Flex 8's physical design resembles the compact MacPro 5,1 or the cheese-grater-style Macs that were once commonplace in most video and photo studios. Its robust design facilitates easy lifting and movement, enabling it to be placed on a trolley or packed into a Peli case for transport to shoot locations.

The enclosure, crafted entirely from metal and finished in matte black with a subtle OWC logo, exudes durability and professional quality. It's designed to withstand frequent transportation and use and acquire a characterful patina of scratches and bashes over time, emblematic of its reliability and robust construction.

Externally, the top-right secured access panel allows entry to all the drive bays, accommodating U.2 NVMe drives, M.2 NVMe drives with an adapter, or SATA/SAS drives, offering extensive flexibility. The front panel includes two USB 3.2 Gen 2 Type-A ports and one USB 3.2 Gen 2 Type-C port, all backwards compatible, alongside a CFExpress Type-B card slot compatible with OWC Atlas Ultra and Pro cards.

All these ports and connections make this a very powerful hub that will become core to your computing. One of the nice features of the design is that the Flex 8 can provide 85W of PD to a host computer, such as a MacBook Pro, helping to cut down on cables and additional chargers and packs. 

A single kettle-type power cord at the rear negates the need for an adapter. Additional features include a display port for connecting an extra monitor and two Thunderbolt 3 ports, which maximise performance when connected to a computer. To avoid performance issues, it's crucial to use a Thunderbolt cable, not a USB Type-C cable.

The front's perforations and a large rear fan facilitate airflow through the system. The fan noise is noticeable yet easily overshadowed by ambient sounds in a typical workspace setting.

• Score: 4/5

OWC ThunderBay Flex 8: Features

The OWC ThunderBay Flex 8 is engineered for professionals who need storage offering both speed and capacity. It is designed to accommodate various drive types, allowing for a storage capacity of up to 172TB, ideal for large video files, extensive databases, or massive archives. With speeds reaching 2,750MB/s, the device caters to the demands of fast-paced environments such as video editing or content creation, where time is critical. The ability to mix and match drive types enables a balance between speed and capacity.

Advanced RAID support through SoftRAID 8.0 simplifies complex data management, providing robust options for data redundancy and optimised performance. The extensive connectivity options, including Thunderbolt 3, USB-C, and USB-A ports, along with DisplayPort 1.4, transform the Flex 8 into a central hub for multiple devices, displays, and peripherals, supporting up to 8K resolution for detailed and expansive visual workspaces. This emphasises that the ThunderBay Flex 8 can act as a hub for all your creative needs, bringing all your accessories together in a neat and organised manner. The OWC Dock Ejector software further enhances this by enabling an easy and safe way to eject all devices from a machine, saving time and helping to ensure drive integrity.

Further enhancing the ThunderBay Flex 8 are the front SD 4.0 and CFexpress card readers, enabling quick media transfers and immediate access to files. The inclusion of a PCIe slot adds a layer of future-proofing, allowing for additional hardware upgrades or specialised cards to suit evolving professional needs. Some of those hardware upgrades that the PCIe slot enables are the ability to add a video capture card, additional PCIe storage, or additional I/O like USB if desired

As a docking station, the ThunderBay Flex 8 streamlines the workflow, offering an efficient and organised workspace by connecting and powering various devices. Its protective post-production solutions, especially for U.2 NVMe drives, ensure safe and reliable data transport, addressing the challenges faced in many production environments.

• Features: 4.5

OWC ThunderBay Flex 8: Performance

The OWC ThunderBay Flex 8, with its 8TB of SSD storage, has proven highly effective in handling 4K and even 8K video editing in Final Cut Pro and DaVinci Resolve. AJA System Test Lite benchmarks revealed impressive read and write speeds of 2972MB/s and 2797MB/s, respectively, showcasing its capability to support high-resolution video workflows seamlessly when connected to a MacBook Pro M1 16". These speeds are crucial for working with large files typical of 4K and 8K footage, ensuring smooth playback and editing without lag, even with extended timelines.

The ThunderBay Flex 8 serves as reliable storage in integration with editing software like Final Cut Pro X, facilitating real-time editing and color grading. The high-speed NVMe SSDs enable direct work with raw footage, including processor-intensive Log3 formats. Performance limitations stem from the MacBook rather than the transfer speed of the ThunderBay Flex 8. This allows for efficient handling of footage from various cameras in different formats, enabling faster overall workflow through multiple conversions and renders.

While the HDD speeds are slower than those of the SSDs, they still deliver a respectable 861MB/s. This is suitable for 4K video editing and ideal for backup storage due to the lower cost per capacity. The HDDs' RAID 5 configuration ensures data safety, allowing for easy replacement of a drive without data loss.

The ThunderBay Flex 8 also shines as a connectivity hub, integrating devices like 4K monitors, control consoles, and memory cards into a cohesive editing suite. However, the lack of an HDMI port (Although an adapter can, of course, be used) and a front-facing Thunderbolt port slightly limits connection options, which, while not a significant issue, is notable.

The unit's fan noise is present but not overly disruptive, and it can be mitigated by placing it under a desk. However, the acoustic design could be improved for quieter operation. An informational screen for monitoring system health and power draw would be beneficial, especially for on-location shoots where power management is crucial. During testing, the ThunderBay Flex 8 was connected to a Bluetti AC200 power station, and while the average power draw could be calculated, having real-time data would enhance usability.

The OWC ThunderBay Flex 8 stands out for its high-speed data handling and comprehensive storage solutions. It proves to be a valuable asset in professional video editing environments. The combination of working and backup storage in the same unit, coupled with the SoftRAID software for swift monitoring, makes it an impressive solution.

One of the most impressive points is the simplicity of the all-in-one approach. It's a RAID-configured system optimised for speed, making it an ideal platform for video editing. On the other hand, it's a mass storage device with huge capacity potential that's ideal for backing up all your video projects, again in RAID so everything is kept safe. The Flex 8 is also offered as a hardware RAID for users who require a hardware rather than software RAID solution.

If the working drive with fast data access and storage capacity wasn't enough, it also enables you to use it as the hub of your workstation so everything connects, centralising your resources and making life extremely easy. there are small ways that you could see this expand for greater flexibility with more users in a production workflow. Still, with shared drives and AirDrop, this system works impressively well, and when integrated into a larger backup solution, in reality, there really is little here to fault. 

• Performance: 5/5

Should you buy the OWC ThunderBay Flex 8?

If you are a professional requiring high-speed, high-capacity storage for tasks like 4K or 8K video editing, the answer is a resounding yes. Its ability to mix and match drive types and configurations, coupled with robust RAID support and extensive connectivity, makes it an ideal choice for those needing a versatile, reliable storage solution. However, for users with less demanding storage needs or tighter budgets, it may be worth considering less expensive alternatives that still meet their performance requirements.

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OWC Thunderblade X8: 30-second review

There are plenty of great storage solutions out there, many boasting incredible transfer speeds and features. However, the power and versatility that the OWC Thunderblade provides are far removed. Initially, the full metal heat sink-style casing and otherwise simplistic design may seem a little understated for a drive that costs as much as it does. But, available in capacities from 2TB up to 32TB, it offers options that might not suit every budget but will cater to those needing ultra-high performance and reliability.

Inside are eight M.2 SSDs that deliver the performance required by production teams working with the latest high-resolution video files. The drive can be tailored to the job's requirements, from logging to transfer to editing, and its solid build ensures it's tough enough to survive life on set or in the post.

Many factors make this drive stand out. Throughout the test, the ability to daisy chain the drive with any of the best external hard drives and storage media ensured a smooth workflow. With just two Thunderbolt ports and a power socket on the back, connection options are simple, and the drive is ready to be used with Mac systems. The OWC SoftRAID software on the drive enables you to configure it to the RAID type you want. This software must be registered at the time of purchase, and after the initial three years, it can be purchased separately.

Once you've selected your RAID option, in this review 0+1, you can begin using the drive. Here, the performance is outstanding. Using an 8K video shot on the Canon EOS R5 C, the drive delivers footage to a MacBook Pro M1 without issue. Transfer speeds are close to those quoted by OWC, and after four hours of editing and then rendering, both the machine and drive remain warm rather than hot to the touch.

We've tested many of the best portable SSDs, and as far as desktop storage solutions go, there are plenty of this size and speed, but rarely together in such a reliable package. For anyone working in video production, this drive might seem expensive, but it's going to save you both time and money.

OWC Thunderblade X8: Price & availability

The OWC Thunderblade X8 is available directly through OWC and can be configured to meet your work's needs. Alternatively, off-the-shelf configurations can be purchased from photo and video specialists such as B&H Photo, Adorama, and Film Guys.

• Score: 4.5/5

OWC Thunderblade X8: Design & build

The Thunderblade X8 is simple in design, with its heavyweight aluminium case protecting internal drives and electronics. Although this relatively small desktop hard drive requires AC power, it is designed for video and photography production. The drive comes with its ballistic hard-shell case, helping to keep it protected while being transported around the globe.

Connecting the drive for the first time is very simple. You use a Thunderbolt cable to connect the drive to the computer through Thunderbolt 3, although it is fully backwards compatible if needed. Furthermore, daisy-chaining further drives or devices, whether from OWC or others, is also perfectly possible.

Once the drive is connected, SoftRAID is included with a free three-year sign-up for software management, after which an extension can be purchased. This software enables you to set up the drive in the RAID configuration of your choice; for this review, that's RAID 0+1, which offers an ideal combination of speed and security for drives with more than four drives. In the case of this review unit, there are eight NVMe drives totalling 16TB; once the drive has been configured, this gives a capacity of 15.36TB and appears as a single drive on the desktop.

A nice feature of the SoftRAID software is that you can check the health of the drives that make up your RAID configuration. You can also adjust the configuration if needed, although you would, of course, need to clear the drives of content prior to changing the RAID configuration.

• Build: 4.5/5

OWC Thunderblade X8: Performance

The Thunderblade X8 setup process is reassuringly quick: The drive is removed from the ballistic hard-shell case, plugged into an AC power outlet (in this case, a Bluetti AC60), and then connected to a MacBook. Throughout the test, the drive was powered by a power station and connected to a 16" M1 MacBook Pro with 64GB of RAM and a 1TB HD.

Initial tests involved using the drive as an on-site solution for logging footage from various cameras, including Canon R5 Cs and Sony A7 IVs, mainly shooting 4K log video. The speed of downloading from CFExpress Type-B and A cards was incredibly quick, with 140GB of files copying across to the drive in just over a minute—a significant time saver on set.

The footage was then organized and arranged, ready for an initial edit, with the footage being accessible like any normal drive, making the process of editing directly from the drive fast and glitch-free.

During rendering, the drive and computer worked robustly over several days without issues, maintaining an issue-free workflow, which is almost unheard of. Throughout the editing process, the lack of noise was noticeable by its absence, although the drive was notably warm to the touch.

Over a two-week duration, the drive was put through its paces, used on set, and during the coverage of the Photography and Video Show at the NEC, proving to be a valuable companion to any of the best video editing PCs or the best photo editing PCs for professional creatives. The drive's speed and reliability are hard to fault. It's worth noting that while the drive is relatively compact, it isn't designed as a throw-it-in-your-bag portable drive and should be seen as a professional storage or working drive solution that requires external power.

Durability is another strong point, which is crucial for equipment used on set. The drive's all-metal design is incredibly robust, and the solid-state drives inside offer additional protection against substantial knocks and bashes. OWC's experience with professionals is evident in their design choices, including the inclusion of the ballistic case, which further adds to the drive's protection in transit. From build to use, the performance of the OWC Thunderblade X8 has been outstanding.

• Performance: 5/5

Should you buy the OWC Thunderblade X8?

When you work in video production, storage is key to several parts of the workflow, from the initial logging of footage—essentially the downloading and organizing of the video footage—through to editing; a decent storage solution is incredibly important. Away from the more obvious use as an external hard drive for Mac and Windows, video editors working remotely with cloud footage will often require a fast drive cache. There are often occasions where video files have to be transferred from one location to another, and the physical drive is still one of the fastest ways. For all these uses, the Thunderblade X8 absolutely hits the mark.

The build quality is superb, and this is matched by unbeatable performance that is beyond any other drive I have seen. For video production purposes, this really is a step above anything else on the market, and you will obviously pay a premium for it.

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Oukitel RT8: 30-second review

There are plenty of rugged and tough tablets on the market, and while most will withstand a knock or two and be subjected to a downpour, few are truly resistant to the elements. The Oukitel RT8 Rugged Tablet instantly feels different from the vast swath of other rugged tablets by feeling weighty and solid.

The metal and plastic exterior is exceptionally well-finished, with a tough-looking design that doesn't go over the top, as we've seen with some other examples. There is a little coloured detailing on the back, but again, this is moulded into the rear casing and reinforces the high-quality look and feel. 

Starting up the tablet reveals the Android 13 operating system, with access to all the usual apps and services. General navigation through the apps shows that the screen is responsive, with little to no delay as you go from one application to the next. 

Browsing the internet using the Wi-Fi connection proves that the tablet has a decent connection speed. Likewise, when switching to a SIM, the 4G connection is decent enough as well. 

The Google suite of apps loads and operates well in use, with a decent-sized touch keyboard that's again fast and responsive. What stands out as you tap away on the screen is just how bright the monitor is, enabling a decent view even in brighter sunlit conditions. 

When it comes to overall speeds, the benchmarking tests showed that it does lag behind mainstream tablets and phones, but then, for the price and durability, you really can't complain. We've tested many of the best rugged tablets and for us, this is just one solid-performing device from every angle.

Oukitel RT8: Price and availability

• How much does it cost? $359 / £319
• When is it out? Available now
• Where can you get it? You can get it Amazon or the Oukitel website

The Oukitel RT8 Rugged Tablet has just been released and is available either directly from Oukitel or through several online stores, including Amazon.com.

• Value: 4 / 5

Oukitel RT8: Specifications

Oukitel RT8: Design

• Robust
• Touch Screen
• Interchangeable Battery

Rugged tablets ordinarily like to highlight their toughness with harsh angles, bright colours, and bulky designs. In contrast, the Oukitel RT8 Rugged Tablet is relatively slimlined and understated, with a screen that occupies the vast majority of the front aspect of the tablet. The tell tale sign of slightly raised and reinforced corners shows that this isn't your usual stay-at-home model.

Flipping the tablet over, there are a few signs that this is more than a standard model, with a line of three lenses for the rear-facing cameras and screw holes for the attachment of the optional handgrip or stand.

Looking over the RT8, you start to see more evidence of its nature and intended use. All ports are covered and sealed, the back has textured detailing for better grip, and the screen is ultra-tough. 

While tablets are usually pretty light, the Oukitel RT8 Rugged Tablet's weight is surprising for its size and thickness, highlighting the strength of the materials used. The overall quality of the design and finish does make this feel like a premium product, rather than one that can be bought at its rather entry-level price point.

• Design: 4 / 5

Oukitel RT8: Features

It's obvious from the outset that the Oukitel RT8 rugged tablet is designed for outdoor use. The design is decidedly rugged without going over the top. The instant you get the RT8 in your hands, you can feel its durability. Unlike other rugged tablets that have large plastic or rubberized surrounds, the RT8 is altogether more discrete and stylish, with the 11-inch 2K display taking up most of the front profile. This screen, at 2K resolution, offers clear and sharp visuals with a 500-nit brightness that ensures you can still see the display in bright conditions. This resolution and brightness make it a great solution for all sorts of outdoor activities, such as map reading, as well as more traditional uses.

To back up that use away from home or office, the RT8 features a TF/MicroSD card slot and Micro SIM slot, so that you can still connect to network services and store additional files. Once a SIM is inserted, this network connectivity is powered by a MediaTek Helio G99 processor that enables 4G connections.

When it comes to internal memory, the tablet is equipped with 12GB RAM (plus 6GB virtual extension), which, combined with the ARM Mali-G57 MC2, is enough to handle most applications, especially Google Docs, as well as media files. When it comes to storage, there's 256GB built-in, and if you need more, you can add a TF or MicroSD card up to 2TB to expand that storage capacity. 

The tablet's large 20,000mAh battery powers it, enabling up to 90 days of standby power and, depending on use, up to 37 hours of listening to music and up to 12 hours of playing back video.

While you're out and about, you may want to capture some of the scenes around you. More likely, if you're working on-site, you'll need to capture some site images. Here, the RT8 is well-equipped with a 48MP Sony rear camera capable of capturing highly detailed images. Next to this camera is a 20MP night vision camera, so even if you're working late and need to capture some images, you'll be able to, even in low-light conditions.

When it comes to the key feature of ruggedness, the RT8 is IP68, and IP69K rated, which highlights its dust and water resistance, alongside MIL-STD-810H military-grade durability to withstand harsh environments, including being able to function in extreme temperatures, ranging from -45°C to 75°C. It's worth pointing out that while this tablet is water resistant and can be submerged under water in line with the IP68 rating, the touch screen won't function. Once removed from the water and the screen is wiped dry, it will work just fine. 

Finally, when it comes to connectivity options alongside the 4G option, the RT8 features NFC, Wi-Fi 5, Bluetooth 5.1, and Android 13 OS.

• Features: 4 / 5

Oukitel RT8: Performance

Before going into the performance of the RT8, it's worth mentioning that this tablet has been designed to withstand conditions that almost all other tablets wouldn't survive. The design is robust, and the screen is bright, which means that it will work almost anywhere you use it. Everything about the design has been made to ensure that it's easy to use and robust, making it an ideal solution for industrial, site, and medical use. The design is also far more discreet than many other tough tablets we've tested, and for that, it's also far more refined. Doors and fixings are solid, not forgoing functionality over style.

The tablet's computing power doesn't match the high-performance processing tasks of mainstream tablets, with lower scores for the benchmark tests. However, that's not to say that it doesn't push its power and features where they're needed.

Browsing the internet using a 4G SIM and the speeds over the mobile network are good, making it easy enough to work on Google Docs or watch the latest series on Netflix.

Using Google Docs is streamlined, and backed by Android 13, everything works quickly and smoothly for viewing and editing documents. Watching media files and streaming video also work smoothly, depending on the connection, of course. In these sort of uses, it's one of the best business tablets for outdoor use, getting the job done with minimal fuss. 

When it comes to playing games, standard mobile games work without issues, as you'd hope. However, when the processors are pushed, the performance starts to lag. Games such as Sonic Classic are great fun and play speedily and smoothly; however, switch to something a little more processor-intensive like Asphalt 9, and the limits of the tablet's power start to show.

When it comes to performance, this tablet excels in areas where others don't. The ability to increase the storage from the standard 256GB to up to 2TB with the addition of a Micro TF or MicroSD card, the bright screen, and extended battery life all make this a very interesting tablet that offers something different.

Alongside the usual performance parameters, this tablet is also equipped with a series of accessories that further enhance its use. These include a hand grip and a stand, further reinforcing this tablet's use in industry and for commercial rather than home use.

• Performance: 3 / 5

Oukitel RT8: Verdict

The RT8 is a great-looking tablet, albeit a bit weighty. However, that weight is part of its rugged appeal, which allows it to survive in conditions that would break most mainstream tablets.

Throughout the tests, the tablet was subjected to water, dirt, and the freezer and handled all with ease. While its power doesn't match that of mainstream models from Samsung and Vivo, its performance for Google Docs, media, and gaming is absolutely fine, and the quality of the Sony camera technology gives the tablet an edge in imaging.

Unless you need a tough tablet for home use, this won't be the best solution. However, if you need a network-connected tablet for work in the field, on-site, or for industrial use, or if you just want a tablet that you can take adventuring, then this is a great option as it will withstand being soaked and subjected to almost any conditions that other tablets would struggle to survive.

Should you buy a Oukitel RT8?

Buy it if...

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We reviewed the best rugged laptops and the best rugged phones - see what passed the drop-test

Having the best website in the world is useless if people can’t find it. SEO (Search Engine Optimization) tools are digital platforms or utilities designed to improve websites’ visibility in search engine results. These tools optimize your website’s content for search engines using techniques such as keyword research, backlink analysis, and site audits. 

Modern digital marketing strategies heavily rely on SEO tools to enhance the performance of your website and achieve the best results from your online presence. Using these tools boosts your website’s visibility and keeps you informed about the latest trends and strategies in the digital marketing world.

Frase offers a range of SEO features, and with artificial intelligence integration, even more features are unlocked. Let’s take a look. 

• Interested in Frase? Check out the Frase website.

Features

Creating content that ranks near the top of search engines and resonates with your audience is crucial for online success as a web developer. However, crafting high-quality content can be challenging without the right tools. Fortunately, Frase comes in as an all-in-one AI-powered assistant for web developers.

Frase's SEO analysis tool is a powerful and easy-to-use tool that can help you increase your website's potential. This tool offers a significant overview of your website's performance, including a detailed website health check and keyword ranking analysis. By analyzing your website's strengths and weaknesses, you can fine-tune your SEO strategy and optimize your website's performance to ensure that it ranks higher in search engine results pages (SERPs). With Frase's SEO analysis tool, you can stay ahead of the competition, attract more traffic to your website, and boost your online visibility.

But that's not all. Frase's content evaluation tool is also a must-have for web developers. It assesses the relevance and comprehensiveness of your content based on your target keywords. You can amplify your content's effectiveness by adopting a comprehensive strategy to review and strengthen your title tags, meta descriptions, and header tags.

Frase is a powerful tool that can help you improve your web content in various ways. One helpful feature it offers is the ability to generate recommendations for text even before you start writing. You can input a suggested blog title with the blog introduction generator, and Frase will analyze and improve it. This can save you a lot of time and effort and help you develop attention-grabbing blog titles that will surely attract readers.

Frase also offers an outline generator that can help kickstart your post and provide a clear roadmap. This approach can be advantageous if you're battling writer's block or uncertain about how to begin your content. With Frase, you can be confident that your web content will be engaging and effective.

How does Frase use artificial intelligence? 

Frase was established in 2016, and its success can be attributed to the advent of artificial intelligence. Frase's offerings for web developers leverage AI in various ways. 

Rather than manually searching for relevant information, Frase utilizes AI to analyze the top-ranking search results for your target keyword. This gives you an understanding of the type of content that Google prioritizes for that topic, including frequently asked questions and critical points to cover.

Frase's AI is also at the core of its content generation tools. It can help generate content outlines and even write specific sections of your content, such as introductions and conclusions, by utilizing the data it gathered from the top-ranking search results to create relevant and informative content.

Moreover, AI powers Frase's SEO optimization tools. Analyzing your content can suggest improvements to optimize it for search engines. This includes ensuring that you're using the appropriate keywords and that your content structure is easy for search engines to crawl and comprehend.

Installation, setup, and compatibility

If you are looking for a comprehensive solution to manage your SEO and content needs, Frase is worth considering. Frase's offerings are easily accessible through its website, provided you have an internet connection. The company's help center is a great starting point for users, especially if you are new to the platform. Here, you can find getting-started guides for Frase's SEO panel, AI tools, and sections on account management, billing, and document management. 

But that's not all! Frase also offers weekly webinars for training purposes, including product demonstrations and Q&A sessions. These webinars are available to both clients and potential clients, making learning more about the platform and its features easier. And the best part? You can attend these webinars from the comfort of your home or office without worrying about traveling.

In addition to its help center and webinars, Frase also has a blog that provides timely insights and product news. Whether you are interested in the latest SEO trends or want to learn more about using Frase's AI tools to improve your content, the blog is a great resource. You can subscribe to Frase's newsletter to stay up-to-date with the latest news and features.

Plans and pricing

If you're new to Frase, you can sign up for a free trial on the company website. However, this offer is limited to only one user and one search query. The training tools and help center available on the website should help you decide whether Frase is suitable for your needs.

Frase offers plans for individuals and teams. For solo users, the membership fee is $15/month or $12/month (when paid annually), allowing for up to 10 search queries per month.

For those requiring more, the Frase Basic plan, which costs $45/month or $38/month (when paid annually). This plan allows one user and up to 30 monthly search queries.

Finally, the team plan starts at $97/month (when paid annually) or $115/month (when paid monthly) and covers up to three users with unlimited search queries. Additional users can be added for $25 per month.

These prices are in line with what other companies charge. However, I'd suggest limiting search queries to 10 or 30 per month, which is probably not enough for most users, and $115 for unlimited searches seems excessive. Ideally, the company should offer solo users unlimited searches for anywhere between $45 and $115 per month. Luckily, you can make membership changes at any time online. 

Final verdict

Frase's SEO analysis stands out for its detailed and comprehensive approach. It covers essential metrics like domain rating, heading count, and word count and provides a unique perspective that aids in tracking content performance.

Frase's AI tools are impressive and make content creation much more manageable. The blog introduction and outline generators are beneficial, as they save time while ensuring the content is optimized for SEO.

Another standout feature of Frase is the competitive analysis tool. It allows users to analyze the top-ranking content for specific keywords, providing valuable insights into the competition and helping to improve the content's performance.

Some users have reported that the interface can be overwhelming at first glance. The layout may not be as intuitive as other tools, and it may take time to navigate between the features. However, once users get used to it, they find that Frase can be a potent tool.

While AI tools are impressive for generating content and conducting research, they are not yet foolproof. For example, the AI may occasionally misinterpret the user's intent and provide irrelevant results. However, Frase is constantly improving its algorithms and updating its database, so users can expect the AI tools to become more accurate over time.

Lastly, Frase’s current membership levels are not very impressive. The search limit for some of its paid memberships is relatively low, which can be frustrating for users who must conduct multiple searches. Frase could offer unlimited searches for all packages and make pricing adjustments based only on the number of users.

Overall, Frase is a good product with some excellent features. With some improvements to the interface and membership options, it could be an even better tool for content creators and SEO professionals.

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