With affordable replacement parts, a five-year warranty, and updates through 2033, the Fairphone proves sustainability doesn’t mean major compromise.

With affordable replacement parts, a five-year warranty, and updates through 2033, the Fairphone proves sustainability doesn’t mean major compromise.

Insta360’s latest 360-degree camera uses larger sensors for better low-light performance and has a smaller body.

The Razer Prio combines a compact foldable design, USB-C connectivity, responsive controls, and extensive customization in a mobile gaming controller that’s easy to take anywhere.

I’ve been an avid player of first-person shooter games since I was a kid. Call of Duty is one of my favorites, and a few years ago, I picked up Call of Duty: Mobile on my iPhone. At the time, I wasn’t a fan of on-screen controls, so I investigated mobile gaming controllers and ended up with the Razer Kishi. It was a great controller to use with the iPhone, and I did really well in-game with its help.

I did step away from mobile gaming for a short period of time, but I recently decided to pick it back up. Fortunately for me, Razer happened to release a brand new controller for mobile gaming called the Razer Prio. Given my previous experience with the Kishi, I was particularly interested to see how the Prio compared and whether its compact, foldable design could provide the same type of gaming experience in a more portable package.

About the Razer Prio

The Razer Prio is a mobile gaming controller designed to provide a more traditional console-style gaming experience without the bulk typically associated with mobile controllers. Its most notable feature is its foldable design, allowing the controller to collapse into a compact form that is easy to carry when you’re not gaming. At just 101 grams, the Prio is also considerably lighter than many traditional mobile gaming controllers.

When unfolded, the Prio provides a familiar controller layout with two analog sticks, a D-pad, four face buttons, shoulder buttons, and triggers. Razer also equipped the controller with contactless capacitive analog sticks, which are designed to provide precise input while eliminating the physical contact points found in traditional potentiometer-based sticks.

The Prio connects directly to compatible smartphones through USB-C, eliminating the need for Bluetooth pairing or a built-in controller battery. This means there’s no controller to charge before a gaming session, although the controller does draw power from the connected smartphone. Razer says the Prio supports iPhone and Android devices, including phones with cases, making it compatible with a wide range of mobile gaming setups.

The controller also includes a dedicated Razer Cortex button for accessing supported games and services, including cloud and remote-play options. With its combination of a compact folding design, direct USB-C connection, and full controller controls, the Prio is designed for mobile gamers who want a more portable alternative to larger controllers without giving up the physical controls needed for serious gaming.

Specs

• Connectivity: USB-C
• Charging: None
• Battery Life: None
• Thumbsticks: Capacitive Thumbsticks
• Thumbstick Sensitivity Adjustment: None
• Multi-Function Buttons: 4 Multi-Function Buttons
• Action Buttons: Silent Tactile Face Buttons
• Triggers: Dual Bumper Triggers
• System Requirements: Android 14 or higher; iOS 18
• Supported Phone Dimensions: Devices up to 7 inches
• Size: 101 mm × 67 mm
• Weight: 101 g
• Mobile App: Razer Cortex Mobile

Pricing & Availability

The Razer Prio is available for $99.99 on razer.com and Amazon.

User Experience

The Razer Prio comes in a classic Razer-branded box. It’s primarily white with Razer green used as an accent color, and there’s a full-color image of the controller on the front. When you open the box, you’ll find the controller folded up into itself, different sizes of rubber inserts, a manual, and the usual Razer stickers.

When I first took a look at the folded-up Prio, I was a little confused about how to unfold it. I tried to figure it out without looking at the manual, and once I pulled the rubber band off to one side, the two halves of the controller split apart. At first, I thought I had broken something, but this is actually part of the Prio’s design. Rather than trying to game with it right away, I spent a little time figuring out how to put it back together. While the process does feel a little awkward at first, after a couple of attempts, opening and closing the controller became fairly easy.

As I mentioned, Razer includes replacement rubber inserts for different iPhone models. The different configurations are:

• iPhone: A + A
• iPhone Pro Max: E + A
• iPhone Air: A + D

I tested the Prio with both an iPhone 17 Pro Max and an iPhone 16 Pro, and the inserts worked as expected. One important thing to note is that the controller is not designed to work with all cases. The iPhone 16 Pro had a slim Defender-style case on it, and the Prio was unable to connect properly with the case installed. Removing the case resolved the issue.

Gaming with the Razer Prio

With the iPhone 17 Pro Max, I tested the Prio with Call of Duty: Mobile. The controller connected immediately and worked as expected as a wired controller. Overall, I think the Prio does a good job when it comes to responsiveness and general gameplay, although there are a few personal preferences that hold it back for me.

First, the thumbsticks sit almost flush with the rest of the controls. I prefer thumbsticks that sit higher, as they give me a greater sense of control and range of movement. I’m accustomed to the feel of an Xbox controller, and the Prio’s low-profile sticks feel noticeably different. This isn’t necessarily a flaw, but it did take some adjustment.

I also wasn’t a big fan of the L2 and R2 triggers. They have a somewhat squishy feel and lack the definitive tactile bump I prefer from a gaming controller. They also seem to have more travel than necessary. As a result, the triggers don’t feel quite as responsive or precise as I’d like, particularly during fast-paced gameplay.

Razer Cortex Mobile

With the iPhone 16 Pro, I connected the Prio to Razer Cortex Mobile and used the app as recommended. While Cortex is optional, I wanted to see how it integrates with the Prio and whether it adds anything meaningful to the overall experience.

One of the most useful aspects of Cortex is the additional customization it provides. The app can be used to update the controller’s firmware and change various controller settings. Most notably, I was able to adjust the thumbstick dead zones and polling rate.

This was one of the more surprising features I encountered while testing the Prio. I haven’t encountered many controllers in this category that offer this level of customization, particularly when being used with iOS devices. Having the ability to adjust the dead zones and polling rate gives users considerably more control over how the controller responds to their inputs.

After making sure the firmware was up to date, I played a few rounds of Combat Master, which provides a very similar first-person shooter experience to Call of Duty: Mobile. This gave me an opportunity to see whether my initial impressions of the Prio’s controls carried over to another FPS rather than relying solely on my experience with COD: Mobile. Since the controls felt virtually the same, I found that my initial impressions of the Prio carried over to another FPS.

After playing Combat Master, I moved over to Asphalt Legends Unite and found the controls to be more than adequate for this type of game. It doesn’t use as much of the controller as an FPS, but the controls were responsive and felt natural on the Prio. The overall experience was a significant improvement over using the touchscreen controls.

Final Impressions

I think the Prio is a very capable mobile gaming controller. It’s clearly designed with portability in mind, and much of my testing actually took place during a very long road trip. The compact, foldable design makes it remarkably easy to travel with, although I do wish Razer had included a carrying case. While the controls are protected when the controller is folded up, I still think a small case or sleeve would have been a worthwhile addition for protecting the Prio while it’s being carried around.

Overall, I found the controls to be responsive, and if you’re familiar with a console-style controller, the Prio should feel comfortable for mobile gaming. That said, the biggest adjustment for me was the overall layout and feel. Rather than reminding me of an Xbox controller, the Prio actually feels much more like the original Nintendo gamepad. The low-profile thumbsticks and overall arrangement of the controls give it a distinctly different feel from the traditional Xbox-style controllers I’m accustomed to using.

Conclusion

The Razer Prio is an interesting take on the mobile gaming controller. Rather than trying to replicate the size and feel of a traditional console controller, Razer took a different approach by making portability one of its biggest priorities. The foldable design makes the Prio easy to take with you, and the fact that it doesn’t require a battery or Bluetooth connection makes it especially convenient for mobile gaming on the go. It may take some adjustment if you’re accustomed to an Xbox-style controller, but the combination of its compact design, responsive controls, USB-C connectivity, and Cortex customization makes the Prio a compelling option for mobile gaming.

For more information, visit razer.com

The ViewSonic VG1457 puts two 14-inch WUXGA displays into a portable 2.6-pound package, giving mobile workers more screen space without carrying two separate monitors.

Traveling and staying productive has become much easier in recent years, largely thanks to portable devices like tablets and laptops. The only issue I end up having is a lack of screen real estate when I’m on-the-go since I’m used to working on a 34-inch wide screen monitor. This is where ViewSonic’s dual-screen portable monitor comes in handy.

About the ViewSonic VG1457

The ViewSonic VG1457 is a dual-screen portable monitor designed to give users additional screen space without requiring two separate displays. It features two 14-inch WUXGA IPS displays with a 1920 × 1200 resolution, connected by a flexible hinge that allows the screens to be positioned in multiple configurations.

The VG1457 supports several viewing modes, including Extend, Mirror, Full-Screen, Share, and Dual Source. It also features USB-C connectivity with up to 65W power delivery, allowing it to connect to compatible laptops and mobile devices while helping reduce the number of cables needed. At approximately 2.6 pounds, the VG1457 is designed for users who want a larger workspace while traveling or working away from their primary desk.

With its flexible design and dual-display functionality, the VG1457 is particularly suited to productivity tasks such as multitasking, presentations, document work, and working with multiple applications simultaneously.

Specs

• Screen Size: 14″ (x2)
• Viewable Area (in.): 14″ (x2)
• Color Space Support: 8 bit (6 bit + FRC)
• Viewing Angles: 170º horizontal, 170º vertical
• Backlight Life (Hours): 15,000
• Display Resolution: WUXGA (1920×1200)
• Display Resolution: 1920 x 1200
• Dynamic Contrast Ratio: 50,000,000:1
• Aspect Ratio: 16:10
• Panel Surface: Anti-glare, hard-coating (3H)
• Light Source: LED
• Brightness: 250 cd/m2
• Static Contrast Ratio: 800:1
• Panel Type: IPS
• Refresh Rate: 60Hz
• PC Resolution (max): 1920×1200
• Mac® Resolution (max): 1920×1080
• USB Type C: 65W x 3
• Internal Speakers: 2W (x2)
• Consumption (typical): 13W
• Consumption (max): 18.5W
• Voltage: AC 100-240V (universal), 50-60Hz
• Stand-by: 0.5W
• Power Supply: External
• Cable Organization: No
• Physical Controls: Up, Down, Enter, Power
• On Screen Display: Input Select, Display Settings, Volume, Color Adjust, Information, All Recall
• Temperature: 32-104º F (0 – 40º C)
• Humidity (non-condensing): 20-90%
• Frequency Horizontal: 15 ~ 82 KHz
• Frequency Vertical: 50 ~ 170 Hz
• Swivel: 340º
• Pivot (Right/Left): Landscape Mode: 0~180 degrees, Portrait Mode: 0~180 degrees, Stand Hinge: up to 90 degrees
• Tilt (Forward/Back): 15º / 45º
• Regulations: cTUVus, FCC-B, ICES003, Energy Star 8.0, EPEAT Silver, CEC
• Net (lbs): 2.6
• Net Without Stand (lbs): 2.6
• Gross (lbs): 4.4
• Net (kg): 1.2
• Net Without Stand (kg): 1.2
• Gross (kg): 2.0
• Packaging (in.): 15.4″ x 11.3″ x 3″
• Physical (in.): 16.77″ x 12.35″ x 0.59″
• Physical Without Stand (in.): 12.21″ x 8.37″ x 0.98″
• Packaging (mm): 391mm x 287mm x 77mm
• Physical (mm): 425.9mm x 313.8mm x 15mm
• Physical Without Stand (mm): 312.8mm x 212.65mm x 22.5mm
• Package Contents: LCD Display, AC/DC Adapter, 2x USB Type C Cable, Protective Case, Quick Start Guide
• Recycle/Disposal: Please dispose of in accordance with local, state or federal laws.
• Warranty: Three-year limited warranty on parts, labor and backlight

Pricing & Availability

The ViewSonic VG1457 has a list price of $349.99 and is available on Amazon.

Setup & Connectivity

Getting the ViewSonic VG1457 up and running is remarkably simple. I connected both a Microsoft Surface Pro and a MacBook Pro directly to the monitor using USB-C, with each side of the VG1457 having its own USB-C port for controlling its respective display. No software or drivers were required, and both displays worked immediately when connected to their host systems.

One of the more convenient features is that the VG1457 does not necessarily need to be connected to external power. I initially had power connected, but disconnected it to see whether the laptops could power the displays themselves. Both the Surface Pro and MacBook Pro were able to power the VG1457 without issue. I also haven’t experienced any connection dropouts during my testing.

The experience does differ depending on the host computer. When using the MacBook Pro by itself, macOS recognizes the VG1457 as a single external display, with both panels showing the same content. The two panels are essentially mirrored rather than appearing as two independent external displays. I did adjust the resolution on the MacBook-connected display, although the monitor worked without making that adjustment. When I connected the Surface Pro by itself, only one of the VG1457’s displays was active. However, connecting the Surface Pro and MacBook Pro simultaneously allowed each display to operate independently, with one screen dedicated to each computer.

Display & Everyday Use

The VG1457’s displays have been impressive for everyday productivity. Brightness is more than adequate for indoor use and remains usable when positioned near a window. I haven’t tested it in direct sunlight, so I can’t say how well the panels would perform under those conditions, but typical indoor environments haven’t presented any issues.

Colors look good straight out of the box. They are slightly muted compared with the display on my MacBook Pro, but the difference is relatively minor, and I haven’t made any color adjustments. Text is particularly easy to read, which is important for a monitor designed primarily around productivity. I also haven’t noticed any significant glare or reflections during use.

For my testing, I used one display for Slack and the other for Messages. Having those applications visible simultaneously is a good example of where the VG1457 makes sense. Rather than constantly switching between windows, both applications remain visible and accessible. With its 60Hz maximum refresh rate, this isn’t a portable monitor I’d choose specifically for gaming, but that isn’t really where it excels. It is much better suited to expanding your workspace when you need additional screens for productivity.

Portability & Build Quality

Portability is one of the VG1457’s strongest attributes. Despite incorporating two displays into a single unit, it isn’t excessively heavy or cumbersome to carry. The system feels sturdy and robust when being handled, which gives me confidence that it can withstand normal wear and tear of traveling between home, office, and other locations.

The hinge is tight enough to keep the displays securely positioned while still being easy to open and adjust. That balance is important for a portable dual-screen design because a hinge that is too loose would make positioning the displays frustrating, while one that is too stiff would make setup unnecessarily difficult.

ViewSonic also includes a travel pouch, which is a welcome addition and makes transporting the VG1457 easier. The pouch is made from felt, however, so I would have preferred something with a little more structure and protection. A more substantial travel case would provide greater peace of mind when carrying two displays in a laptop bag or backpack.

Overall, the VG1457 has been easy to set up, reliable in my testing, and surprisingly practical to carry. Its biggest limitation so far is not the hardware itself, but how the displays behave depending on the computer they’re connected to. For productivity, however, having two additional panels available in such a portable package can be extremely useful.

Conclusion

The ViewSonic VG1457 solves a problem that anyone who regularly works away from a desktop setup can appreciate: how do you get more screen space without carrying a collection of monitors and cables? By combining two 14-inch displays into a single portable unit, ViewSonic has created a convenient way to expand your workspace while traveling.

Despite its limitations, the VG1457 is an excellent option for people who prioritize productivity and portability. Having two displays available in a single 2.6-pound package is incredibly useful when working away from a traditional desk. If your primary goal is to have more room for applications, messages, documents, and other productivity tasks while traveling, the VG1457 is worth considering.

For more information, visit viewsonic.com

The SOUNDPEATS UU2 combine a comfortable open-ear design, strong bass, LDAC, Bluetooth 6.0, multipoint connectivity, and up to 42 hours of battery life in an affordable package.

I recently just started a new workout regimen, and while I love my AirPods Pro, they tend to work their way out of my ears when I’m active. There’s nothing quite as distracting as having to stop in the middle of a workout to push an earbud back into place, especially when I’m trying to stay focused on what I’m doing.

That got me looking at open-ear earbuds, particularly the clip-on style that doesn’t rely on an ear tip staying securely inside the ear canal. The SOUNDPEATSU@ UU2 caught my attention because they take that approach while still offering features I typically look for in a pair of wireless earbuds, including Bluetooth 6.0, LDAC support, multipoint connectivity, and a claimed 10 hours of battery life.

I’ve also been curious about how well this style of earbud actually performs in everyday use. Leaving the ear canal open sounds appealing for workouts and other situations where I want to remain aware of my surroundings, but that design also raises some questions. How do they sound? Is there enough bass? How secure are they during exercise? And how much sound actually reaches the people around you?

I’ve spent some time with the SOUNDPEATS UU2 to find out whether these clip-on earbuds can deliver the stability and convenience I’m looking for without sacrificing the audio experience that has kept me coming back to the AirPods Pro.

About the SOUNDPEATS UU2

The SOUNDPEATS UU2 are open-ear clip-on earbuds designed to sit around the ear rather than inside the ear canal. This allows users to listen to music while still hearing some of the sounds around them.

The UU2 feature 12mm dual-magnet dynamic drivers with DynamicEQ technology, Bluetooth 6.0, and support for SBC, AAC, and LDAC codecs. They also offer multipoint connectivity, physical button controls, IPX5 water resistance, and up to 10 hours of playback on a single charge. The included charging case extends total battery life to up to 42 hours.

With their lightweight clip-on design and open-ear construction, the UU2 offer an alternative to traditional in-ear earbuds. The rest of this review focuses on how that design performs in everyday use, including comfort, audio quality, fit, controls, and connectivity.

Specs

Core Specs

• Bluetooth: v6.0
• Bluetooth Profiles: HSP / HFP / A2DP / AVRCP
• Chipset: BT8912F
• Bluetooth Codecs: SBC / AAC / LDAC

Battery

• Earbud Battery: 50mAh × 2
• Charging Case Battery: 500mAh
• Earbud Charging Time: 45 minutes
• Case Charging Time: 1 hour 36 minutes
• Fast Charging: 10 minutes provides up to 2 hours of playback
• Total Playtime: Up to 42 hours
• Charging Port: USB-C

What’s in the Box

• SOUNDPEATS UU2 (POP Clip2) earbuds
• Charging case
• USB-C charging cable
• User manual
• App quick-start card
• SOUNDPEATS sticker sheet

Package & Design

• Single Earbud Weight: Approximately 5g
• Charging Case + Earbuds: 47.7g
• Controls: Physical buttons
• Water Resistance: IPX5

Pricing & Availability

The list price for the earbuds is $49.99 on soundpeats.com and Amazon.

User Experience

Getting started with the SOUNDPEATS UU2 is straightforward. Inside the box, you’ll find the earbuds, their charging case, a short USB-C charging cable, and a user guide. There’s also an app quick-start card and a SOUNDPEATS sticker sheet. The earbuds arrive stored in the charging case, so there isn’t much to do before getting started beyond charging them and connecting them to a device.

The first thing I noticed after taking the UU2 out of the case was just how different they feel compared with traditional earbuds. Rather than placing anything inside the ear canal, the UU2 use a clip that sits behind the ear with the speaker positioned just outside it. That design takes a little getting used to, but it also ended up being one of my favorite aspects of using them.

Comfort & Fit

The SOUNDPEATS UU2 took a little getting used to at first. Since the clip sits behind the ear, it feels noticeably different from traditional earbuds. Initially, I was very aware of the clip being there, but after wearing them for a while, that feeling became much less noticeable.

Once I got used to the design, I found the UU2 to be very comfortable. One of my favorite things about the open-ear design is that there isn’t a traditional earbud wedged into my ear canal. Instead, it feels almost like I have two small speakers sitting just outside my ears.

The earbuds have stayed securely in place during normal movement, and so far, I haven’t noticed any significant movement or shifting. They also work well with my glasses, and I haven’t experienced any pressure or irritation around my ears.

Putting them on and taking them off takes a little practice because of the clip design, but once I figured out the proper motion, it became easy to do. Overall, I have been very impressed with how comfortable the UU2 are, particularly for longer listening sessions.

Audio Quality

I was pleasantly surprised by the sound quality of the UU2. They sound great, and the bass response is particularly impressive for an open-ear design. I expected some compromise in the low end because the earbuds don’t create a seal inside the ear canal, but the bass is actually very strong.

Vocals are clear, and the mids and highs are well balanced. I’ve also been impressed with how the UU2 handle different volume levels. Whether I’m listening at a lower volume or turning things up, the audio remains clear and I haven’t noticed any significant distortion at higher volumes.

For an open-ear pair of earbuds, the overall listening experience has been better than I expected. They provide plenty of volume and bass without losing the clarity that I want when listening to music.

Everyday Use

The physical buttons are one area where I think the UU2 could be improved. The buttons themselves work well, but their location makes them a little awkward to press. It isn’t something that prevents me from using the earbuds, but it does take some getting used to.

The controls themselves are intuitive, and I especially like that they can be customized through the SOUNDPEATS app. Being able to change what the different button presses do gives me more control over how I use the earbuds and lets me configure them around my preferences.

Connection speeds have also been good. The UU2 connect to my devices within a few seconds, so I haven’t had to wait around for them to establish a connection.

One of the biggest advantages of an open-ear design is being able to remain aware of what’s happening around me while listening. With the UU2, I can still hear ambient sounds such as my keyboard while I’m typing or my dog barking. However, the music remains the dominant sound, so I wouldn’t describe them as providing complete awareness of my surroundings.

I also haven’t had anyone complain about sound leakage while I’ve been using them. That said, because the speakers sit outside the ear rather than creating a seal, I can see how someone nearby could hear the earbuds if the volume were turned up high enough.

Conclusion

The SOUNDPEATS UU2 have turned out to be a pleasant surprise. I went into this review primarily looking for a solution to a very specific problem: keeping earbuds securely in place while working out. What I found was a pair of earbuds that not only stay in place, but are also comfortable enough that I can see myself using them well beyond my workouts.

At $49.99, the SOUNDPEATS UU2 offer an impressive combination of comfort, sound quality, battery life, and features. For someone looking for an alternative to traditional in-ear earbuds, particularly for workouts or extended listening, the UU2 are easy to recommend.

For more information, visit soundpeats.com

The Galaxy Z Fold8 combines flagship performance, a versatile foldable display, and improved One UI 9, but its high price and ecosystem compromises make the decision more complicated.

The Galaxy Z Fold8 arrives at an interesting point in the evolution of foldable smartphones. Samsung has had several generations to refine the concept, and the Fold8 represents the company’s latest attempt to make a foldable feel less like an experimental alternative and more like a legitimate flagship. With a new generation of Snapdragon hardware, updated software, a redesigned chassis, and a growing collection of AI features, there is plenty here to evaluate beyond the novelty of having a phone that folds.

For this review, I wanted to look at the Fold8 as a smartphone I could actually live with rather than simply evaluating its specifications. That means looking at its performance, battery life, software, cameras, design, and everyday usability while also considering where it fits among the other flagship phones available today.

About the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold8

The Samsung Galaxy Z Fold8 is Samsung’s latest flagship foldable smartphone, combining the portability of a traditional smartphone with a 7.6-inch foldable display that provides a much larger workspace when opened. The Fold8 features a slimmer and lighter design than previous generations, a 120Hz Dynamic AMOLED 2X cover and inner display, and is powered by the Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 for Galaxy processor. It also includes a 50MP wide camera, 50MP ultra-wide camera, and a range of Galaxy AI features designed to make multitasking, communication, photography, and everyday productivity easier.

With up to 1TB of storage and 16GB of RAM, the Galaxy Z Fold8 is positioned as both a premium smartphone and a compact productivity device. Its large inner display makes it particularly suited to multitasking, content consumption, document editing, and other tasks that benefit from additional screen space, while its redesigned hinge and thinner profile make it more practical to carry throughout the day.

Features & Specs

Weight & Size

• Cover Display Dimension: 5.5”
• Main Display Dimension: 7.6”
• Weight: 201g

Camera

• Wide: 50.0 MP
• Ultra Wide: 50.0 MP
• Front: 10.0 MP (Cover) + 10.0 MP HID (Main)
• Zoom: Optical Quality Zoom 2x, Digital Zoom up to 10x

Battery

• 4800 mAh
• Up to 26 hours of video playback

Processor

• Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 for Galaxy

Display

• Cover Display Resolution: 1972 x 1248 WUXGA + Dynamic AMOLED 2X
• Main Display Resolution: 1848 x 2448 QXGA+ Dynamic AMOLED 2X

Storage Options

• 256 GB
• 512 GB
• 1 TB

Memory

• 12 GB (256 GB + 512 GB models)
• 16 GB (1 TB model)

Durability

• Frame: Armor Aluminum Frame

Glass

• Corning Gorilla Glass Ceramic 3 / Corning Gorilla Glass Victus 2

Water Resistance

• IP48

Connectivity

• 5G
• WiFi

Galaxy Exclusives

• Samsung Care+
• Samsung Health
• Samsung Wallet

User Experience

Specifications and benchmark numbers only tell part of the story with a device like the Galaxy Z Fold8. A foldable can have all the right hardware on paper, but what matters is how that hardware comes together when you actually use the phone every day. After spending time with the Fold8, there are several things about the experience that stood out to me.

First of all, the Galaxy Z Fold8 has a bright display that does an excellent job of hiding the crease in most lighting conditions. When the screen is on, the crease is almost impossible to see, which makes the display feel much more like a traditional smartphone screen than I expected.

The hinge also feels tight and well made. Samsung has put a significant amount of R&D into the hinge, including testing how many times it can be opened and closed, and that engineering is apparent in the way it feels during everyday use.

The glass on the front of the phone is nice, although it does not seem to be as scratch-resistant as the glass on the iPhone. If you take care of the phone or use a screen protector, I don’t expect this to be a major issue. The enter screen can potentially scratch, but this isn’t necessarily Samsung’s fault. It is simply where we are with current screen technology. We haven’t quite caught up with what we want to be able to do with glass while maintaining the durability we expect from it.

A Form Factor That Works

Using the wider form factor has been a joy for my eyes. I’ve been noticing that I have to squint when looking at text on my iPhone, but text renders comfortably on the Fold8’s larger display. Reading on this phone has been a joy.

The phone is smaller than an iPhone Pro Max when it is closed, yet the screen still feels like you’re reading from a much larger display. The combination of its compact closed form and large inner display is one of the things I have enjoyed most about using the Fold8.

If you’re an Apple fan, this form factor could be particularly interesting when Apple eventually releases its own foldable iPhone coming up in a month. The Fold8 provides a good example of what a larger foldable phone can offer without requiring you to carry a tablet-sized device.

Typing

Typing on the Fold8 has been a joy, both open and closed. The wider body when the phone is closed gives me a better grip while texting.

One of my concerns was that typing with the phone open would feel unwieldy, similar to typing on an iPad mini. Instead, the split design of the keyboard felt natural after just a few minutes of use and has been very comfortable.

That was one of the surprises of using the Fold8. I expected the larger screen to make typing more awkward, but Samsung’s approach to the keyboard makes good use of the additional screen real estate.

Setup and Connectivity

When setting up the phone, I wanted to test the transfer option between Android devices. Unfortunately, this is where I ran into a problem. The phone would get so far into the transfer process and then fail.

This may have been related to the Google Pixel I was transferring from, but I also ran into an issue when trying to transfer my eSIM. I was ultimately unable to complete the transfer and had to have a brand-new eSIM sent to me via email.

The setup experience wasn’t as seamless as I had hoped, although I don’t necessarily think the transfer issue can be attributed entirely to Samsung.

Samsung’s Magnetic Case

I’m currently using Samsung’s magnetic case with the Fold8. This case is designed only to fit on the back of the phone. It isn’t intended to protect the front or sides. Its primary purpose is to provide MagSafe-style charging and compatibility with magnetic accessories.

When using this case, the phone actually feels lighter than my iPhone Pro Max with a thin case attached to it. That’s an impressive difference considering how much more screen the Fold8 provides when opened.

The magnetic functionality also gives the Fold8 access to a range of charging options and MagSafe-style accessories, which adds another layer of flexibility to the phone.

Performance and Software

Overall, I am very excited about the hardware in this phone. The Snapdragon processor is extremely fast, and the phone comes with a 12GB of RAM. If you keep the phone for more than a year, I expect that combination to make it a relatively future-proof device.

The software experience has also surprised me.

The last time I used a Samsung device, I believe we were on One UI 6 or 7, and I wasn’t a huge fan of it. With One UI 9 and Android 17, the experience feels much more polished. The software feels stable and much more visually appealing than I remember.

I can see how casual iPhone and Pixel users could be tempted to switch to Samsung because of the Fold8. There is a lot to like here, particularly when you combine the hardware with the improved One UI experience.

That said, there are small things I miss from iOS.

For example, I frequently take screenshots, and copying text from a screenshot is incredibly simple on an iPhone. I also miss being able to tap text within an image and select it directly. If this functionality is available in Android 17, I haven’t been able to find the setting that enables it.

These may sound like small things, but when you use a particular operating system for years, those small conveniences add up.

Ecosystem Matters

Having my phone work seamlessly with my Mac, iPad, Apple TV, and the other devices in my Apple ecosystem is another factor that is difficult to overlook. Those little conveniences can turn an otherwise excellent hardware experience into more of a challenge when you move outside of that ecosystem.

For someone who is already heavily invested in Apple, the Fold8 would require giving up some of those conveniences. The hardware may be compelling enough to make that worthwhile, but it is something potential buyers should consider before making the switch.

The same is true for Google users. If you enjoy the Google ecosystem, it is worth remembering that Google has an event coming up on Wednesday where it is expected to introduce its next generation of foldable devices, while Apple is expected to make its own announcements the following month.

Pixel vs. Fold8

For me, the Google Pixel 10 Pro XL has been my secondary phone. It is a great flagship testing phone and has worked well for my second number.

However, as my primary device, as much as I enjoy the new form factor and the speed of the hardware in the Fold8, it can’t push my iPhone into the secondary position. What it has done is knock the Pixel down a spot and taken its place as my secondary phone.

That puts me at something of a crossroads.

I enjoy the bare-bones approach of Google Pixel phones, but that more stripped-down version of Android can sometimes feel a little plain. I previously strongly disliked Samsung’s One UI, but the current version feels much more stable and visually appealing.

Ultimately, both devices are running Android, and your data belongs to either Samsung, Google, or both depending on the services you use. With the Google Pixel, you have options such as GrapheneOS, while there are also Android debloating tools that can be used on the Fold8 to remove some of the software you don’t want.

For example, tools such as Universal Android Debloater Next Generation and ADB AppControl can give experienced users more control over what is installed and running on their device.

For most people, the default experience will be perfectly fine. It’s simply nice to know that tools exist to give you more control if you need it.

Overall Feel

After spending time with the Fold8, I’m very impressed with the hardware. The display is bright, the crease is surprisingly easy to ignore, the hinge feels solid, and the phone is comfortable to hold and use.

The rounded corners are a nice touch, although I think a more pronounced curve could have made the phone slightly more comfortable to hold for long periods. This is a relatively minor complaint, but when you’re using a device this large for extended periods, small ergonomic details matter.

The biggest consideration for me isn’t whether the Fold8 is a good phone. It absolutely is. The question is whether its excellent hardware and improved software experience are enough to overcome the ecosystem conveniences I get from using an iPhone.

For me, the answer is no, at least as my primary phone. But the Fold8 has absolutely earned its place as my secondary device, replacing the Pixel 10 Pro XL in that role.

Benchmark Testing

To get a better understanding of how the Galaxy Z Fold8 performs beyond everyday use, I ran a series of industry-standard benchmarks covering CPU performance, GPU performance, artificial intelligence, everyday productivity, battery life, and sustained graphics performance. These tests provide a consistent way to measure the hardware and compare the results with Samsung’s published performance claims.

Benchmarks don’t necessarily represent how a phone will perform during every real-world task, but they can reveal the capabilities of the processor, GPU, NPU, memory subsystem, and battery. They can also help determine whether a device can maintain its performance under sustained workloads rather than simply delivering a high score during a short test.

Geekbench 7

Geekbench 7 provides a standardized way to measure CPU and GPU performance. The CPU tests are particularly useful for evaluating the Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 for Galaxy’s ability to handle both single-threaded and multi-threaded workloads. Single-core performance is important for many everyday tasks, while multi-core performance becomes more important when several demanding processes are running simultaneously.

The Galaxy Z Fold8 produced a single-core score of 3,056 and a multi-core score of 9,629.

Geekbench 7 CPU

• Single-Core: 3,056
• Multi-Core: 9,629

These results provide a useful baseline for the Fold8’s overall processing capability and help demonstrate whether Samsung’s flagship hardware delivers the level of performance expected from the Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 for Galaxy.

Geekbench 7 also includes a GPU compute test. Rather than measuring traditional gaming performance, this test evaluates how effectively the GPU handles compute workloads.

Geekbench 7 GPU

• OpenCL: 17,377

The OpenCL result gives us another way to evaluate the Adreno GPU and provides a useful point of comparison with other flagship smartphones. While it shouldn’t be treated as a direct representation of gaming frame rates, it helps establish how much computational power is available for GPU-accelerated workloads.

Geekbench AI

The Fold8’s Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 for Galaxy isn’t only designed to deliver high CPU and GPU performance. Samsung also places considerable emphasis on AI capabilities, making Geekbench AI an especially relevant benchmark for this phone.

Geekbench AI measures machine-learning performance across different hardware acceleration paths. Running the benchmark using the CPU, GPU, NNAPI, and Qualcomm’s QNN framework helps show how the phone handles AI workloads depending on which processing hardware is being used.

CPU

Geekbench AI CPU

• Single Precision: 2,552
• Half Precision: 4,109
• Quantized: 6,153

The CPU results provide a baseline for AI workloads without relying on the phone’s dedicated AI acceleration hardware. These numbers are useful for understanding how the Snapdragon processor handles AI tasks when they are executed through the general-purpose CPU.

GPU

Geekbench AI GPU

• Single Precision: 2,984
• Half Precision: 4,576
• Quantized: 4,082

The GPU results demonstrate how the Fold8 handles AI workloads using its graphics processor. This is particularly relevant for applications that can take advantage of GPU acceleration rather than relying entirely on the CPU or dedicated NPU.

NNAPI

Geekbench AI NNAPI

• Single Precision: 670
• Half Precision: 646
• Quantized: 1,476

NNAPI, or Android’s Neural Networks API, provides a standardized way for Android applications to access available neural-network acceleration hardware. These results help show how AI workloads can perform through Android’s broader machine-learning framework.

QNN

Geekbench AI QNN

• Single Precision: 659
• Half Precision: 27,041
• Quantized: 67,208

The QNN results are particularly interesting because QNN is Qualcomm’s neural-network framework and is designed to take advantage of Qualcomm’s AI hardware. The dramatic increase in the half-precision and quantized results compared with the CPU, GPU, and NNAPI results highlights the difference between general-purpose AI processing and the specialized acceleration available through Qualcomm’s QNN framework.

The 67,208 quantized QNN score is especially noteworthy. Quantized models use reduced numerical precision to make AI workloads more efficient, which is important for running AI features locally on a smartphone while minimizing power consumption and processing overhead.

These results don’t mean that every AI application will achieve anything close to the Geekbench AI scores. Applications use different models and APIs, and software optimization plays a significant role. However, they provide evidence that the Fold8 has the specialized hardware needed to support the local AI processing Samsung is promoting with this generation of Galaxy devices.

PCMark for Android

PCMark provides a different perspective than Geekbench because its Work benchmark is designed around common smartphone tasks rather than isolated processor workloads.

For this test, the Galaxy Z Fold8 achieved a PCMark Work 3.1 score of 20,546.

PCMark Work 3.1

• Overall: 20,546

PCMark Work 3.1 evaluates tasks representative of everyday smartphone use, including web browsing, document and data manipulation, image editing, and other productivity-oriented workloads. This makes it useful for putting the synthetic CPU and GPU results into a more practical context.

A strong Geekbench score tells us that the processor is powerful. A strong PCMark score helps demonstrate how that hardware translates into everyday productivity.

3DMark

To evaluate the Galaxy Z Fold8’s sustained graphics performance, I ran 3DMark’s Wild Life Extreme Stress Test. Unlike a standard benchmark that measures peak performance during a relatively short workload, the Stress Test repeatedly runs the same demanding graphics workload to determine how well the phone maintains performance as it heats up.

The Galaxy Z Fold8 produced the following results:

3DMark Wild Life Extreme Stress Test

• Best Loop Score: 5,949
• Lowest Loop Score: 3,037
• Stability: 51%

The most notable result here is the difference between the best and lowest loop scores. The Fold8 started with a score of 5,949 but dropped to 3,037 during the later loops. That’s a reduction of approximately 49% from its best performance.

The resulting 51% stability rating indicates that the phone was unable to maintain anywhere near its initial level of GPU performance throughout the extended workload. This is important because it demonstrates the difference between peak performance and sustained performance. The Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 for Galaxy is capable of delivering very strong graphics performance, but when the GPU is pushed continuously, thermal limitations have a significant impact on how much of that performance can be sustained.

This doesn’t mean the Fold8 will constantly operate at half of its benchmark performance during normal use. Everyday tasks typically don’t place the same continuous load on the GPU that a stress test does. Gaming sessions, however, can create workloads that are much closer to this type of sustained testing, particularly with demanding 3D titles.

For Samsung’s performance claims, the result provides an important qualification. The Fold8 clearly has the hardware necessary to deliver flagship-level peak performance, but the Stress Test shows that sustained performance is considerably lower than peak performance under prolonged heavy workloads. That’s not unusual for a thin, powerful smartphone, but it is something potential buyers should keep in mind if they intend to use the Fold8 for extended gaming or other graphics-intensive tasks.

What the Results Tell Us

Taken together, these benchmarks show that the Galaxy Z Fold8 has the hardware to deliver a true flagship-level experience. The Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 for Galaxy provides strong CPU and GPU performance, while the Geekbench AI results, particularly through QNN, demonstrate the potential of Qualcomm’s dedicated AI hardware. The PCMark Work 3.1 score of 20,546 also shows that this performance translates well to everyday productivity workloads.

The 3DMark Wild Life Extreme Stress Test provides an important look at what happens when that hardware is pushed for an extended period. While the Fold8 achieved a strong Best Loop Score of 5,949, its Lowest Loop Score fell to 3,037, resulting in 51% stability. This shows that sustained GPU performance is considerably lower than peak performance under a prolonged, demanding workload. While most users won’t place this kind of continuous load on the phone, it is worth considering for extended gaming sessions or other graphics-intensive tasks.

No benchmark can completely reproduce the way someone uses a smartphone. However, by combining CPU, GPU, AI, productivity, and sustained-performance testing, we get a much more complete picture of what the Galaxy Z Fold8’s hardware is capable of. The results largely support Samsung’s positioning of the Fold8 as a high-performance flagship, while also showing that peak performance and sustained performance are two very different things.

Conclusion

The Samsung Galaxy Z Fold8 has left me with a somewhat unexpected conclusion. I went into this review expecting to evaluate another generation of Samsung’s foldable hardware, but I came away genuinely impressed by how mature the overall experience has become. The hardware is excellent, the Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 for Galaxy provides plenty of performance, the displays are impressive, and One UI 9 is considerably more polished than I remember from my previous experiences with Samsung.

The Fold8 also demonstrated why foldable smartphones continue to be interesting. The larger inner display isn’t simply a novelty. For reading, typing, multitasking, and working with content, it can fundamentally change how you use a smartphone. At the same time, the device remains relatively compact when closed, making the form factor surprisingly practical.

The biggest drawback is the price. The Fold8 is an expensive smartphone, and while the hardware helps justify some of that premium, buyers need to decide whether the foldable form factor provides enough additional value to warrant the cost. The 3DMark results also show that while the Fold8 delivers excellent peak performance, sustained GPU performance can drop considerably under prolonged workloads.

The Galaxy Z Fold8 isn’t perfect, and it doesn’t have to be. What matters is that Samsung has continued refining the concept rather than simply making a phone that folds. The Fold8 feels like a mature flagship with a different approach to what a smartphone can be. For users who want a larger screen without carrying a tablet, it is one of the most compelling options available. For those deeply invested in another ecosystem, however, the decision is more complicated.

For me, the Fold8 doesn’t replace my iPhone. It does something arguably more interesting: it made me enjoy using a Samsung phone.

For more information, visit Samsung.com

TCL’s hybrid tablet-digital notebook tries to be the best of both worlds, and it mostly succeeds.

TCL’s hybrid tablet-digital notebook tries to be the best of both worlds, and it mostly succeeds.

Xteink’s new X4 Pro e-reader is its best yet, but the lack of an ebook store can be limiting.

Xteink’s new X4 Pro e-reader is its best yet, but the lack of an ebook store can be limiting.

Hairmax’s LaserBand 82 ComfortFlex took only 90 seconds per treatment, and it produced visible results along my widening part.

Hairmax’s LaserBand 82 ComfortFlex took only 90 seconds per treatment, and it produced visible results along my widening part.

Discover how the UPLIFT Standing Desk V3 4-Leg transformed a traditional home office with exceptional stability, premium craftsmanship, and ergonomic sit-stand functionality.

For many people, a desk is simply a place to put a computer. As long as it holds a monitor, keyboard, and mouse, it gets the job done. That’s exactly how my fiancé’s mother’s husband (Ron) approached his home office for years. Like countless others, he used a traditional manufactured particleboard computer desk that provided a dedicated workspace but little else. It was functional, affordable, and met his needs for everyday productivity.

Over time, however, those hours at the desk began to add up. Whether checking email, browsing the web, managing finances, or simply spending time on the computer, he often remained seated for extended periods. The desk itself wasn’t uncomfortable, but it also wasn’t designed to adapt to the person using it. Sitting in the same position day after day can contribute to stiffness, fatigue, and poor posture, especially when there are few opportunities to change positions throughout the day.

When we had the opportunity to review the UPLIFT Standing Desk V3 4-Leg, we immediately saw it as more than just another piece of office furniture. It was a chance to completely rethink his workspace and replace a traditional fixed-height desk with one designed to promote comfort, flexibility, and long-term ergonomics. The goal wasn’t simply a nicer desk. It was to create a workspace that could better support the amount of time he spends at his computer each day.

The UPLIFT Standing Desk V3 4-Leg is designed for users who want exceptional stability, premium materials, and the freedom to alternate between sitting and standing throughout the day. In this review, we’ll take a closer look at the assembly process, build quality, daily use, and whether upgrading from a conventional computer desk to a premium standing desk is a worthwhile investment.

About the UPLIFT Standing Desk V3 4-Leg

The UPLIFT Standing Desk V3 4-Leg is designed for users who need a spacious, highly stable workstation that can support demanding office or creative setups. As the most robust model in UPLIFT’s standing desk lineup, it features four synchronized lifting columns that provide enhanced stability and a lifting capacity of up to 535 pounds. Whether you’re using multiple monitors, heavy desktop equipment, or a large work surface, the V3 4-Leg is engineered to maintain a solid foundation throughout its height range.

Like the rest of the V3 family, the desk includes UPLIFT’s updated frame design, anti-collision technology, an extensive selection of desktop materials and sizes, and compatibility with the company’s wide range of accessories. Buyers can customize nearly every aspect of the desk, from the desktop finish and frame color to storage options, cable management, and ergonomic add-ons, making it easy to tailor the workstation to individual needs.

Backed by a 15-year warranty, the UPLIFT Standing Desk V3 4-Leg is aimed at professionals, content creators, gamers, and anyone looking for a premium sit-stand desk that combines durability, customization, and long-term reliability.

Features

• Four-leg design for exceptional stability
• Smooth electric sit-to-stand adjustment
• Anti-collision detection system
• Programmable memory presets (depending on the selected keypad)
• Optional Bluetooth connectivity through the UPLIFT Desk App
• FlexMount Cable Management System
• Patented 40-point accessory mounting system
• Extensive desktop material and finish options
• Multiple frame color choices
• Wide range of compatible accessories and organizational add-ons
• Simplified assembly with pre-installed hardware
• Backed by a 15-year warranty

Specifications

Specification	Details
Frame Type	Electric four-leg standing desk
Lift System	Four synchronized motors
Lift Capacity	Up to 535 lb (243 kg)
Height Range	22.6” to 48.7” (with a 1” desktop)
Leg Design	Three-stage telescoping columns
Height Adjustment Travel	26.1 inches
Ergonomic Standard	ANSI/BIFMA G1-2013 compliant
Safety Certification	ANSI/BIFMA X5.5-2021 tested
Included Cable Management	FlexMount Cable Manager and 10 reusable cable wraps
Desktop Sizes	Multiple options ranging from 48” to 80”+ (varies by desktop material)
Desktop Materials	Laminate, bamboo, rubberwood, solid wood, reclaimed wood, and more
Frame Colors	Black, White, Gray, Industrial Gray

Unboxing and Assembly

Having assembled several UPLIFT desks in the past, including the V3 Standing Desk, the assembly process felt immediately familiar. The desk arrived in multiple well-protected boxes, with the solid walnut butcher block desktop and steel frame packaged securely to prevent damage during shipping.

Because of the desk’s weight, I needed assistance bringing the boxes into the house. Once everything was unpacked, however, I completed nearly the entire assembly by myself. The instructions were easy to follow, the hardware was clearly labeled, and many of the components arrived partially assembled to simplify the process.

From start to finish, assembly took approximately one hour and 42 minutes. The only point where I needed another person was flipping the completed desk upright. Between the 1.5-inch solid walnut desktop and the substantial four-leg frame, this is definitely a two-person task.

To make the desk easier to reposition in the future, I also installed the optional Soft Roll Casters. Given the overall weight of the completed desk, this proved to be a worthwhile addition.

Creating a Better Workspace

Once assembled, we moved everything from his previous desk to the new workspace. His setup is relatively straightforward, consisting of a 32-inch monitor, keyboard, mouse, fiber gateway modem, and various everyday office supplies. His desktop tower remains on a stand beside the desk, while the printer sits on a nearby file cabinet.

Although his workstation isn’t particularly elaborate, the larger work surface immediately made the space feel more organized. There was plenty of room for his computer equipment while still leaving open workspace for paperwork and other daily tasks.

To complete the setup, we added several UPLIFT accessories, including the DuoMount monitor arm, Cup Holder & Tumbler, Writing Desk Pad, FlexMount Cable Manager, and a six-outlet mountable surge protector. Together, these accessories created a cleaner and more organized workspace without adding unnecessary clutter.

Everyday Use

The biggest improvement that Ron has seen wasn’t any single feature. It was how much more substantial the entire workstation felt. He thinks it’s extremely well-built and thanks to the casters, it’s very easy to move. He also really likes the cup holder and the extra outlet box. They are both easy to relocate, which Ron appreciates.

The electric motors were equally impressive. Despite the desk’s size and weight, transitions between sitting and standing were smooth and surprisingly quiet. The Advanced Keypad makes it easy to adjust heights with the press of a button.

The desk is remarkably stable. Whether typing, using the mouse, or raising and lowering the desktop, the four-leg frame remained exceptionally solid. Compared to the manufactured desk it replaced, there was very little movement, giving the entire workspace a premium feel.

The solid walnut butcher block desktop also made a noticeable difference. Beyond its attractive appearance, the thicker work surface adds to the desk’s overall feeling of quality and durability.

Cable Management

One area that often gets overlooked during a desk upgrade is cable management. Using the FlexMount Cable Manager together with the mountable surge protector made organizing the various power and monitor cables surprisingly easy. Once everything was connected, the underside of the desk remained neat and organized, helping the finished workspace look much cleaner than the previous setup.

Standing Throughout the Day

Perhaps the biggest change wasn’t the desk itself but the flexibility it introduced into the daily routine. Instead of remaining seated for hours at a time, he now has the option to alternate between sitting and standing whenever he chooses. Because the desk adjusts quickly and quietly, changing positions takes only a few seconds. That convenience encourages movement throughout the day without interrupting whatever task is at hand.

Overall Impressions

Replacing a traditional manufactured desk with the UPLIFT Standing Desk V3 4-Leg transformed the workspace in ways that extend beyond aesthetics. The desk feels exceptionally well built, provides outstanding stability, and offers a level of flexibility that simply wasn’t possible with a fixed-height desk.

It is certainly a premium product, and its weight reflects the quality of its construction. Adding the Soft Roll Casters was a practical decision that makes repositioning the desk much easier whenever necessary.

While the investment is considerably higher than that of a typical computer desk, the combination of premium materials, thoughtful engineering, and the ability to support healthier working habits makes it a meaningful upgrade for anyone who spends long hours at a desk, even if their daily computer use consists primarily of routine productivity tasks.

Conclusion

Upgrading from a traditional manufactured computer desk to the UPLIFT Standing Desk V3 4-Leg proved to be much more than a cosmetic improvement. While the old desk provided a functional place to work, the UPLIFT transformed the workspace into one that is more comfortable, organized, and adaptable to long hours at the computer.

Throughout our time with the desk, its exceptional stability stood out as its defining characteristic. The four-leg frame remained remarkably solid whether typing, adjusting the monitor, or transitioning between sitting and standing. Combined with the premium solid walnut butcher block desktop, quiet motors, and thoughtful accessory ecosystem, the desk consistently delivered a polished user experience.

The UPLIFT Standing Desk V3 4-Leg is undoubtedly a premium investment, but its build quality, customization options, and long-term durability help justify the price. For anyone who spends several hours a day at a desk, whether working remotely, managing a home office, or handling everyday productivity tasks, it offers meaningful improvements that extend well beyond aesthetics.

For more information, visit upliftdesk.com

Discover how the Mammotion LUBA mini 2 AWD 1500 performed in real-world testing, from setup and mapping to mowing performance, obstacle avoidance, and whether its premium price is worth the investment.

Like most people with yards, I have a love/hate relationship with yard maintenance. After more than 30 years of mowing, I can honestly say it’s definitely not my thing. I know a lot of people take pride in maintaining their lawns, but I just don’t know how they find the time. There has to be an easier way to get a nicely manicured lawn without sacrificing so much time or dealing with the Midwest heat.

That’s where the Mammotion LUBA mini 2 AWD 1500 came into my life. I had looked at several robotic lawn mowers over the years, but I was always scared off by the price and concerns about reliability. I’d read reviews and heard plenty of horror stories. After a lot of consideration, I finally decided to give the LUBA mini 2 AWD 1500 a try.

Before it even arrived, I had three main criteria I wanted to judge it on: cost versus benefit, ease of use, and overall design.

Why I Chose the LUBA mini 2 AWD 1500

The first consideration was cost, or more accurately, cost versus benefit.

Around $2,000 sounds like a lot of money, and it certainly is. But when you factor in the cost of buying and maintaining mowing equipment, along with the value of your own time, it starts to make more sense. If you currently pay for lawn service, the math gets even more interesting. For an average-sized yard with weekly mowing over a 16 to 18 week season, the investment can come surprisingly close to paying for itself, depending on where you live.

It’s definitely a significant upfront investment, but if you’re already shopping for a robotic mower, you know they aren’t inexpensive. Compared to similar premium models, I found the LUBA mini 2 AWD 1500 to be priced right in the middle of the market.

Features and Specifications

Before I got too far into testing the LUBA mini 2 AWD 1500, I wanted to look at what made this mower different from the other robotic lawn mowers I had considered.

The biggest thing that caught my attention was that there are no boundary wires to bury and no external antenna to install. The LUBA mini 2 AWD 1500 uses a combination of 360° LiDAR and dual-camera AI vision to understand the yard and create its mowing map. For someone who doesn’t want to spend a weekend digging trenches just to install a robot mower, this is a huge advantage.

The LUBA mini 2 AWD 1500 is designed for yards up to 0.37 acres and can manage up to 20 different mowing zones. Since every yard has its own challenges, having the ability to create multiple zones is helpful if you have separate lawn areas, different grass types, or areas you want the mower to avoid.

Another big feature is the all-wheel-drive system. The LUBA mini 2 AWD 1500 can handle slopes up to 80% (38.6°), which is impressive for a residential mower. My yard definitely gave it some challenges, especially with my steep ditch, and while the mower handled the incline well, the muddy areas were still a challenge.

For cutting, Mammotion included both a main cutting disc and a dedicated edge-cutting disc. The edge cutter is designed to get closer to fences, walls, and flower beds, which means less time spent following behind with a string trimmer.

Feature	Specification
Lawn Coverage	Up to 0.37 acres
Mowing Zones	Up to 20 zones
Drive System	All-Wheel Drive
Maximum Slope	80% (38.6°)
Navigation	360° LiDAR + Dual-Camera AI Vision
Battery	6.1Ah
Cutting System	Main cutting disc + edge cutting disc
Connectivity	Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, and 4G
App	Mammotion App

Setup Experience

The second thing I wanted to evaluate was ease of use. How easy would it be for an average person to get it out of the box, set it up, and start mowing?

Some robotic mowers seem like they require a degree from NASA, SpaceX, or MIT just to get started. I’m none of those. While I consider myself fairly tech-savvy, there are still some areas where I struggle.

Fortunately, the LUBA mini 2 AWD 1500 wasn’t one of them.

Right out of the box, the mower comes fully assembled. There was no feeling like I was putting together an IKEA electronics kit. I simply unpacked everything and laid it out next to the large, easy-to-follow Quick Guide. Although Mammotion includes a detailed instruction manual, I honestly found the Quick Guide to be all I needed.

I downloaded the Mammotion app from the App Store, created an account, and started following the setup instructions. The app is straightforward and includes a digital user guide, FAQs, maintenance information, tutorial videos, and even winter storage instructions. It doesn’t double as a snowblower, though. That would’ve been pretty cool. Maybe in a future version.

Setting up the charging station was simple. You just need a flat location with access to power. My LUBA mini 2 AWD 1500 arrived with roughly a 60% battery charge, so I was able to connect it using Bluetooth and Wi-Fi almost immediately. I have an outdoor router, so the connection process was quick and painless, although it’s recommended to have your router or access point reasonably close.

Mapping the Yard

Once everything was connected, the fun really began.

The LUBA mini 2 AWD 1500 is capable of maintaining multiple lawns, but I decided to start with just my front yard because my backyard is separated by a privacy fence. Later, I even mapped and mowed my neighbor’s front yard across the driveway.

You can let the mower automatically map your property or manually drive it around the perimeter. I chose the manual option.

I have to admit, I probably looked like a kid on Christmas morning driving the mower around with the app like it was a remote-control car. My yard has a steep drainage ditch that often fills with water, so I wanted precise control over the boundaries.

I did attempt to include the ditch since the LUBA mini 2 AWD 1500 is rated for slopes up to 80%, but the muddy, bare areas proved to be too much. Honestly, I expected that, so it wasn’t a deal breaker.

After mapping the perimeter, I selected my mowing pattern. Naturally, I wanted that checkerboard look you see on perfectly manicured golf courses.

Before the first mow, I did have to install a firmware update. Thankfully, it didn’t take very long. I also configured my mowing schedule, selected a voice, and adjusted some sound settings.

One thing that immediately stood out was just how quiet the mower is. It’s quiet enough that I actually scheduled it to mow in the middle of the night.

Smart Navigation and Obstacle Avoidance

The technology behind the LUBA mini 2 AWD 1500 is probably one of the biggest reasons someone would choose this mower over a traditional robotic mower.

Instead of relying on a physical boundary wire, the mower uses LiDAR and AI cameras to understand its surroundings. This helps it navigate around obstacles, move through different areas of the yard, and make decisions about where it needs to go next.

I was especially interested to see how the obstacle avoidance would work because my yard has plenty of things that could potentially get in the way. Between pets, wildlife, and everyday yard surprises, a mower needs to know when to stop.

I didn’t have to wait long to see the obstacle detection system in action.

My four-legged furry friends were naturally curious about the strange new machine roaming the yard. Every time they approached, the LUBA mini 2 AWD 1500 stopped immediately before continuing once the area was clear.

That gave me a lot of confidence. Whether you have pets, kids, or unexpected wildlife wandering through your yard, it’s reassuring to know the mower is paying attention to its surroundings.

The Mammotion app also gives you a lot of control over the mower. You can create and adjust maps, manage up to 20 mowing zones, set schedules, and customize mowing patterns. The ability to make changes digitally instead of physically changing the yard setup is one of the things that makes a robotic mower like this appealing.

Mowing Performance

Once everything was configured, the LUBA mini 2 AWD 1500 went right to work.

The mowing pattern looked great, and I was impressed with how consistently it maintained the lawn. It handled tight spaces well thanks to its omni-directional front wheels and navigated around my yard with very little intervention from me.

The biggest benefit, though, was simply getting my time back. Instead of spending my weekends behind a mower in the summer heat, I could let the LUBA mini 2 AWD 1500 handle the work while I did something else.

App Experience

The Mammotion app ended up being one of my favorite parts of the overall experience.

Beyond the initial setup, it makes scheduling, mapping, and changing mower settings very straightforward. Everything from firmware updates to maintenance information is available within the app, along with tutorial videos and helpful documentation.

I never felt overwhelmed trying to figure out how to use it, and that’s saying something considering how many smart home products tend to overcomplicate things.

Design

When I said earlier that I was off to the races, I meant it.

The LUBA mini 2 AWD 1500 reminds me of an oversized futuristic remote-control Indy car. Five-year-old me would have thought it was the coolest thing ever, and honestly, adult me isn’t far behind. My neighbors certainly noticed it.

The LiDAR dome on top gives it a bit of a spaceship appearance, which only adds to its futuristic look.

Not only does it perform well, but it’s also a genuinely attractive piece of technology. Mammotion’s design team clearly put thought into both the appearance and functionality. I wish more companies approached product design this way.

Battery and Maintenance

One of the biggest benefits of a robotic mower is not having to constantly think about mowing, and the LUBA mini 2 AWD 1500 is designed around that idea.

The mower automatically returns to its charging station when needed and resumes mowing once it has enough power. The intelligent battery management system also includes features designed to help extend battery life, including charging limits and low-temperature protection.

Routine maintenance is straightforward. Mammotion includes extra blades and cleaning supplies, which means you have what you need for basic upkeep right out of the box.

Final Thoughts

At the end of the day, the Mammotion LUBA mini 2 AWD 1500 has saved me both time and effort while keeping my yard looking like it was maintained by a professional lawn care crew.

The only downside is that it still can’t trim around edges, so I have to get out the string trimmer every few weeks. Maybe Mammotion will come up with a trimmer attachment someday.

The company includes extra blades and cleaning supplies to help with routine maintenance, which is a nice touch.

Overall, I found the LUBA mini 2 AWD 1500 incredibly easy to set up, simple to operate, and impressively safety-conscious. Every time I see it quietly making its way across the lawn, I can’t help but smile. It brings out the kid in me all over again.

If you haven’t made the jump to a robotic lawn mower yet, the LUBA mini 2 AWD 1500 is definitely worth considering. Even if you already own another robotic mower, you may find yourself tempted to upgrade. As my father said, using it makes you feel a little like George Jetson.

For more information, visit mammotion.com

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The Shuffle Wallet 2.0 combines an innovative fan-style card mechanism, premium aluminum construction, MagSafe compatibility, and an integrated Find My tracker to offer a fresh take on the minimalist wallet.

Minimalist wallets have become increasingly popular over the past few years, promising slimmer pockets and quicker access to everyday essentials. While many follow the same formula of stacking cards inside a compact aluminum frame with a pop-up ejection mechanism, meaningful innovation in the category has been relatively rare. I’ve tested several minimalist wallets over the years, but none have become my daily wallet.

The Shuffle Wallet 2.0 aims to change that with a fresh approach to card organization and accessibility. Instead of simply pushing cards upward in a staggered stack, its patented fan-style mechanism spreads cards out so you can instantly see and select the one you need.

About the Shuffle Wallet 2.0

The Shuffle Wallet 2.0 is a premium minimalist wallet designed to make carrying and accessing everyday essentials faster and more convenient. Built from lightweight aluminum, the wallet combines a slim profile with durable construction while offering RFID protection for contactless cards. In addition to its unique card access system, the Shuffle Wallet 2.0 includes a built-in rechargeable tracker compatible with Apple’s Find My network and Android’s Find Hub, helping users locate a misplaced wallet without the need for a separate tracking accessory.

The wallet also features a Quick Draw slot for frequently used cards, MagSafe compatibility for supported smartphones, and optional modular accessories for added versatility. Designed for users who prefer a streamlined everyday carry, the Shuffle Wallet 2.0 balances modern functionality with a clean, minimalist aesthetic.

Features

• Innovative Fanning Mechanism: Instantly see every card
• 34% lighter & 12% slimmer than Shuffle Wallet 1.0
• Quick Draw Slot: Effortless, one-handed card access
• MagSafe Ready: Secure, instant magnetic attachment
• Built-in Tracker: Instantly pinpoint your wallet’s location via your phone
• RFID Blocking: Ensures privacy, security and identity protection
• Modular Build: Easily expandable with add-ons

Specifications

• Dimensions: 4.3” x 2.5” x 0.57” (109.3 x 64.5 x 14.5 mm)
• Weight: 5.29 oz (150 g)
• Card Capacity: Holds up to 7 cards
• MagSafe Compatible: iPhone Pro Max models only

Pricing & Availability

The list price for the wallet is $139.99, but it’s currently being offered for $99.99 (at the time of publishing) on shuffle.life.

User Experience

Getting started with the Shuffle Wallet 2.0 couldn’t have been much easier. Aside from loading my cards into the wallet, there was virtually no setup required. Pairing the built-in tracker with Apple’s Find My network was equally straightforward. After fully charging the wallet using the included magnetic charging cable, I pressed the power button, and it was immediately recognized by Find My as a “Square tag.” From there, I assigned it an icon and added it to my devices, completing the setup process in just a few minutes.

My first impression of the wallet was positive. The Forged Carbon finish gives it a modern, premium appearance while maintaining a clean, minimalist aesthetic. Despite its aluminum construction, it doesn’t feel overly heavy, and its dimensions are comparable to a traditional wallet while remaining noticeably thinner than the bifold wallet I normally carry. The build quality also inspired confidence. Having tested several minimalist wallets with similar card ejection mechanisms, I’ve seen some develop problems or break over time. The Shuffle Wallet 2.0 feels substantially more solid and well constructed.

During my testing, I carried between six and seven cards, including four credit cards, my driver’s license, and two insurance cards. The retention system held everything securely, even when I reduced the load to only two or three cards. I never felt like the cards would slip out, regardless of how many I was carrying.

The wallet’s fan mechanism is its standout feature. While the thumb slider requires a little more force than I expected, it consistently deploys the cards for quick access. The cards don’t always spread into a perfectly even fan, and the middle cards can occasionally be a bit harder to grab, but I still found the design more intuitive than the staggered ejection systems used by many competing wallets because it makes identifying the correct card much easier. Inserting cards requires slightly more effort than removing them, although this became less noticeable after a few days of use.

For everyday carry, the wallet proved comfortable in both my front and back pockets. Its footprint is similar to that of a compact smartphone, and the smooth, rounded edges made it easy to slide into a pocket without catching on clothing.

I also tested the wallet’s MagSafe functionality with my iPhone 16 Pro Max. The magnetic connection felt secure during normal use and held the wallet firmly in place. However, attaching it noticeably increased the phone’s thickness, making the combination less comfortable to carry for extended periods. While the feature is convenient when you want to keep everything together, I generally preferred carrying the wallet separately.

The built-in tracker performed reliably throughout my testing. Apple’s Find My network located the wallet quickly, and location updates appeared without delay. I also tested the audible alert, but the speaker was quieter than I expected. The alert uses a higher-pitched tone that was difficult for me to hear because of my hearing loss, and there are currently no options to adjust the volume or change the sound.

Charging the tracker was the one aspect of the experience that felt less refined. Although the proprietary magnetic charging cable is simple to connect, it can be knocked loose fairly easily while charging. Because the cable is unique to the wallet, it also means you’ll need to keep track of it, since a standard USB-C cable can’t be used as a replacement.

After several days of daily use, the fan mechanism remained my favorite feature. It offers a genuinely different way to access cards and makes selecting the one you need faster than many traditional minimalist wallets. Overall, the Shuffle Wallet 2.0 is best suited for people who primarily carry cards and want a slim, premium everyday wallet. Those who regularly carry cash may find its minimalist design a bit limiting.

Conclusion

The Shuffle Wallet 2.0 brings meaningful innovation to a product category where many designs have become increasingly similar. While there are a few areas that could be improved, particularly the proprietary magnetic charging cable and the relatively quiet tracker speaker, neither significantly detracts from the overall experience. The wallet consistently performed well throughout my testing, securely holding my cards while remaining comfortable to carry.

If you’re looking for a premium minimalist wallet and primarily carry cards rather than cash, the Shuffle Wallet 2.0 is one of the most compelling options I’ve tested. Its thoughtful design, solid construction, and innovative card access system make it stand out in an increasingly crowded market.

For more information, visit shuffle.life

With 200W of shared output, six charging ports, a retractable USB-C cable, and a real-time LCD display, the MOKiN 200W Desktop Charger is an excellent all-in-one charging solution for modern desktops.

I’ve reviewed quite a few MOKiN products over the years, and they’ve become one of those brands I genuinely look forward to testing. Whether it’s a docking station, USB-C hub, or charger, I’ve consistently been impressed by the quality of the materials, thoughtful designs, and reliable performance. MOKiN has earned a place among my favorite accessory brands because they continue to deliver dependable products without the premium price tag that many competitors charge.

Founded around 2016, MOKiN focuses on USB-C accessories, including docking stations, hubs, adapters, and charging solutions. As laptops and tablets have increasingly adopted USB-C while removing traditional ports, the company has built its lineup around helping users connect displays, transfer data, and charge multiple devices with as little hassle as possible. Backed by its parent manufacturer, C-SmartLink Information Technology in Shenzhen, MOKiN has expanded its reach to customers in more than 100 countries and continues to grow its lineup with practical, well-built accessories.

Specs

• Total Power Output: Up to 200W shared across six charging ports 
• Ports: 4 × USB-C, 2 × USB-A 
• Maximum USB-C Output: Up to 100W from a single USB-C port (device must support 100W input) 
• Maximum USB-A Output: Up to 15W from a single USB-A port 
• Display: Integrated LCD screen with real-time per-port power monitoring, charging time, average power usage, temperature alerts, and animated status icons 
• Built-In Cable: 2.6 ft (80 cm) retractable USB-C cable 
• Technology: GaN 5.0 for improved charging efficiency and reduced heat generation 
• Safety Features: Six-layer protection system including overcurrent, overvoltage, short-circuit, overheating, and other charging safeguards 
• Compatibility: Supports charging for smartphones, tablets, laptops, power banks, and other USB-powered devices, including iPhone, Samsung Galaxy, MacBook, iPad, and more 
• Dimensions: 4.8 × 2.8 × 2.2 inches 
• Ideal For: Home offices, desktops, bedside tables, travel, and charging multiple devices simultaneously 
• Warranty: 18-month limited warranty 
• Support: Lifetime technical support from MOKiN 

Unboxing and First Impressions

Inside the box, you’ll find the MOKiN 200W Desktop Charger along with its external power supply. Setup couldn’t be any easier. Simply connect the power adapter, plug it into the wall, and the charger is ready to go.

After powering it on, I was greeted by MOKiN’s familiar LCD display. A single button on the top of the unit lets you cycle through several different display screens, allowing you to view real-time charging information such as how much power each connected device is drawing, total charging output, charging time, average power usage, and other system information. It’s a simple interface that’s easy to navigate and genuinely useful if you like keeping an eye on what your devices are pulling.

My first impression was just how compact the charger is. Despite offering six charging ports and up to 200W of total output, it takes up very little space on a desk. The clean, vertical design helps minimize clutter, making it an excellent addition to a desktop setup without dominating valuable workspace.

Overall Use

After using the MOKiN 200W Desktop Charger on my desk for a while, it’s become one of those accessories I don’t want to be without. My desk is filled with power-hungry devices including a MacBook Air, iPad Pro, smartphone, wireless accessories, and even large-capacity power banks, so having a single charging station that can handle everything without needing multiple wall adapters has been incredibly convenient. Instead of cluttering my desk with individual chargers, I now have one compact unit that quietly sits in the corner until I need it.

One of my favorite features is the built-in retractable USB-C cable. It keeps the desktop looking clean and organized because there’s no loose cable hanging around when it’s not being used. When I need to charge something quickly, I simply pull it out, plug it in, and when I’m finished it retracts neatly back into the charger. My only complaint is that I wish MOKiN had included two or even three retractable cables instead of just one. That would make it even more convenient for frequently charging multiple USB-C devices without reaching for additional cables.

The LCD display is another feature I’ve grown to appreciate. Being able to see exactly how much power each connected device is drawing is surprisingly useful, especially when charging laptops or high-capacity power banks. It takes the guesswork out of charging and gives the charger a more premium feel.

Overall, this has become a permanent fixture on my desk. It stays out of the way, takes up very little space, and is always ready whenever I need to charge another device. For anyone with a desk full of modern USB-C gadgets, this feels less like an optional accessory and more like a necessity. It keeps everything organized, eliminates cable clutter, and provides enough power that I’ve rarely found myself wishing for anything more.

Conclusion

The MOKiN 200W Desktop Charger is another excellent product from a brand that has consistently impressed me. It delivers plenty of power in a surprisingly compact design, keeps desktop clutter to a minimum, and offers enough ports to charge just about everything I use on a daily basis. The retractable USB-C cable, informative LCD display, and 200W total output all combine to create a charging station that feels both practical and thoughtfully designed.

As with any high-powered GaN charger, it does get warm when it’s supplying a lot of power, especially when charging multiple devices or power-hungry equipment at the same time. During my testing, however, the temperatures never reached a point that I considered unsafe or concerning. The heat remained well within what I’d expect from a charger pushing this much power, and I never experienced any performance issues while using it.

My biggest wish is that MOKiN had included two or three retractable USB-C cables instead of just one, as that would make an already convenient charger even better. Even so, that’s a relatively minor complaint.

If you’re looking for a single charging station that can replace a handful of bulky wall adapters while keeping your desk clean and organized, the MOKiN 200W Desktop Charger is an easy recommendation. It’s become a permanent part of my desktop setup, and I can honestly say it’s one of those accessories that you don’t realize you need until you start using it every day. Once it’s on your desk, it’s hard to imagine going back.

For more information, visit mokinglobal.com

A lightweight Copilot+ PC laptop with an excellent OLED display and impressive everyday performance

I’m not a huge computer user, but I definitely appreciate having a good system available for different types of work. I was instantly impressed with the ASUS Zenbook A14 because of its compact design and premium gold finish. While many compact systems require compromises in performance, display quality, or battery life, ASUS continues to refine its Zenbook lineup with machines that deliver a premium experience in a highly portable package. After spending time setting up the system, running everyday workloads, and putting it through several benchmark tests, I came away impressed with just how polished the overall experience is.

About ASUS Zenbook A14

The ASUS Zenbook A14 is a 14-inch Windows laptop built around Qualcomm’s latest Snapdragon X2 Elite platform. It combines an OLED touchscreen display with modern AI capabilities, long battery life, and an emphasis on portability.

Although the chassis doesn’t use aluminum construction, it still feels well-built and lightweight enough to carry throughout the day. ASUS has paired the hardware with a vibrant OLED panel, comfortable keyboard, quality speakers, and USB-C charging, making it an attractive option for students, business users, and anyone looking for a premium ultraportable Windows laptop.

Features and Specifications

• 14-inch 2K OLED display
• Qualcomm Snapdragon X2 Elite processor
• Copilot+ PC with AI capabilities
• USB-C charging with included 100W power adapter
• Comfortable backlit keyboard
• Precision touchpad
• Premium speaker system
• Lightweight portable design
• Windows 11

Design

The first thing that stood out was how lightweight the Zenbook A14 feels. Even though the exterior isn’t made from aluminum, it still feels well-built and sturdy. The textured finish gives it a premium appearance while also resisting fingerprints better than many metal laptops.

The laptop is easy to carry with one hand, making it an excellent option for students, commuters, or anyone who frequently works away from a desk.

Opening the lid immediately reveals one of the Zenbook A14’s strongest features: its beautiful 14-inch OLED display. Colors are vibrant, blacks are truly deep, and text remains crisp whether I’m writing articles, browsing the web, or streaming video. The display makes everything look better, and after spending several days working on it, I appreciated just how comfortable it was during extended use.

Setup Experience

The initial Windows setup process was straightforward and familiar. Like most Windows laptops, the first boot included the usual account setup, privacy options, and software configuration.

After completing the initial setup, Windows downloaded and installed a significant number of updates. From start to finish, the entire process took close to an hour, which was longer than I anticipated. While somewhat time-consuming, this isn’t unusual for a brand-new Windows computer, especially one installing multiple system and firmware updates.

The laptop includes a 100W USB-C power adapter, allowing charging through its USB-C connection without requiring a proprietary charger.

Keyboard and Audio

One of my favorite aspects of the Zenbook A14 is its keyboard. Although it doesn’t include a dedicated numeric keypad, the key spacing feels excellent, and each key provides a satisfying amount of travel. The keyboard quickly became comfortable to type on.

To get a better idea of its usability, I completed an online typing test and reached 86 words per minute with 99% accuracy. My typical typing speed usually falls between 73 and 75 WPM, making this one of the most comfortable laptop keyboards I’ve used recently.

The speakers were another pleasant surprise. Small laptops often struggle to produce rich, full sound, but ASUS has done an excellent job here. Audio sounds clear, dialogue is easy to understand, and music has far more presence than I expected from a laptop this size. Volume output is also impressive. I rarely found myself increasing the volume beyond 14 to 16 during everyday listening.

Performance

Everyday performance feels fast and responsive. Applications launch quickly, multitasking remains smooth, and the system handles office work, web browsing, streaming media, and general productivity without hesitation.

To see how the hardware performs under more demanding workloads, I ran several benchmark tests.

Geekbench 6

• Single-Core: 3,653
• Multi-Core: 18,445
• OpenCL: 39,475

The Geekbench 6 results demonstrate excellent overall system performance. The strong single-core score translates into a responsive Windows experience, with applications opening quickly and everyday tasks feeling fluid.

The impressive multi-core performance provides plenty of horsepower for heavier workloads such as photo editing, content creation, video rendering, and multitasking. Meanwhile, the OpenCL score indicates capable GPU acceleration for applications that can leverage graphics processing during creative workflows.

Geekbench AI

• Single Precision: 1,779
• Half Precision: 3,042
• Quantized: 6,594

As AI features continue becoming integrated throughout Windows and productivity software, Geekbench AI provides useful insight into how well modern hardware handles machine learning workloads.

The Zenbook A14 produced strong results across all three precision tests. The particularly high quantized score suggests excellent efficiency when running optimized AI models, making the system well-equipped for current and future AI-assisted productivity features without requiring a discrete graphics processor.

FurMark Benchmark

Score: 2,404 points

FurMark is designed to place sustained stress on a system’s graphics hardware and cooling solution. While this workload is far more demanding than typical day-to-day usage, it provides a useful indication of thermal stability during extended heavy loads.

The Zenbook A14 maintained stable performance throughout testing, suggesting that the cooling system is capable of handling prolonged workloads without significant instability.

Final Thoughts

The ASUS Zenbook A14 delivers an impressive balance of portability, comfort, and performance. The OLED display is one of the best features of the laptop, offering excellent image quality for both work and entertainment. The keyboard is exceptionally comfortable to type on, the speakers outperform expectations for a laptop this size, and overall system responsiveness makes everyday computing enjoyable.

Combined with strong benchmark performance, the Zenbook A14 proves to be a capable machine for productivity, media consumption, and light creative workloads. Users looking for a compact Windows laptop that feels refined without sacrificing performance will find a lot to like here.

For more information, visit Asus.com

Classic 90’s morning cartoon nostalgia with frustrating Controls

Weirdly, time seems to become more valuable as we age. Especially when you consider that each second, minute, hour, week, month, and year has the same duration and cadence.  As a youth, it seemed that this currency was limitless.  I could play what I wanted, when I wanted, and do nearly anything I wanted.  Now, as a married father of four kids, each with their own sports, work/study, hobbies, interests, and a full-time job, I have to be more selective about my activities.  Since my free time is worth more than when I was a child, I have to ration it and divert my energy between only a few activities.   

I have enjoyed playing video games since approximately 1988 when my parents bought a Nintendo NES.  With time I progressed through the NES, Super Nintendo, N64, GameCube, Wii, Nintendo Switch, Nintendo Switch 2, the GameBoy family (Game Boy, Color, Advance, DS, 3DS/XL), Sega Genesis, Sega CD, GameGear, PlayStation 2/3, PSP, XBOX 360, XBOX One and XBOX Series X.  I played a variety of game types to include platformers, first person shooters, RPG, JRPG, racing games, quest/puzzle style games, etc.  In my later years of high school and into college, my father and I played the online role-playing game (MMORPG) Dark Age of Camelot.  Now, I am left with a Nintendo Switch 2, an Xbox Series X, and one to two hours per week of playtime.  One hour is used to play Diablo 4 with my Dad, and one hour is used for Switch 2 time.  

I read about the Nickelodeon Splat Pack, a $14.99 Nintendo Switch eShop game, and immediately fell in love with the nostalgia of morning cartoons and the art style of Rocko’s Modern Life, Real Monsters, and the gameshow Nickelodeon GUTS.  I had the privilege of reviewing the title thanks to the publisher.  With a quick trip to the eShop and a download time of ~7 minutes (1032-1039 am), the game found its way onto my E-storage.  I fired up the game and noticed a virtual card insertion animation, photosensitivity warning, and then the fun, slimy, Nickelodeon image.  Many adults will remember the orange/yellow slime splat, purple lettering, and crayon-like purple feel of Nickelodeon.  I think that feeling is part of why Splatoon felt so fun to play and why Slime remains one of my kids’ favorite pastimes.  We had Gak; now they have every iteration of texture and smell you can imagine in slime form.

The game compilation had several modes/games within the main collection: Rocko’s Modern Life: Spunky’s Dangerous Day, Nickelodeon Guts, and AAAHH!!! Real Monsters (Sega/NES versions).  The main Nickelodeon splat screen will transition into the second screen with Real Monsters 16-bit Mega at the top left, Rocko’s Modern Life: Spunky’s Dangerous Day along the left, Museum, and Credits. Along the right side of the screen, you will find Real Monsters 16-bit Super, GUTS, and a music player. Along the bottom, you have change selection with the L drumstick, Y for languages (French, English, Italian, German, Spanish), B for back, and A to confirm.  

I remembered the kids’ TV game shows like Double Dare, GUTS, Legends of the Hidden Temple, and wanted to start with the GUTS game.  Unlike the cartoony feel of the other games, the GUTS game lacked color and pizazz and felt more pixelated and outdated than retro.  The game’s opening sequence provided several black-and-white photographs of the GUTS game show. You can adjust the screen size between full, 4:3 ratio, and stretch.  You can change the filter from CRT to off and adjust the borders: 1. Off, which is all black. 2. Colored Backgrounds: A yellow, orange-shaped background, purple, yellow, green background, and a green slime background.  You can open up the game manual and walk through the different games and try to navigate/memorize the manual for each game subtype. 

Instead of using the A button to start the game, the GUTS game required you to press the “+” button to start a game. You can choose between single player vs. two player, change between beginner and advanced, and turn the music on and off. You can choose GUTS Show or single event. Select your desired color (blue, red, and purple), and then pick your character. There are eight options to select from, and each one has a different weight, height, and favorite sport.  I am not certain that these differences mattered much in the actual game. From Lacrosse V Attack to track to elastic ball slam dunk, and then to the Aggro Crag, the game was very difficult to play.  The controls were not easy to remember; each mode had its own sequence of button combinations and timing patterns.  Timing the basketball slam, trying to get back onto the ledge, rope grabbing, ball throwing/aiming all created more frustration than enjoyment.  At times, it felt like the athletic character would fall or jump before I even pushed a button.  Again, quite frustrating.  Even though it was one of the first games I played, I did not return to the game and have since not played it again.  

Rocko’s Modern Life: Spunky’s Dangerous Day did a great job at capturing the artistic, visual feel of the 16-bit era.  In this game, you will assume the role of the Wallaby Rocko, and you must guide your dog Spunky through various maps, hazards, and transitions.  The gameplay felt clunky, and the Spunky Mechanic was incredibly frustrating.  I have played many games that required specific timing (Aladdin carpet level, Turbo Tunnel level on Battletoads, Solomon’s Key, Mike Tyson, numerous platform jumps). Still, the escort mechanic, combined with the mapped controls and inability to adjust the controls, made the game quite frustrating.  Despite the frustration, I think it was the best of the collection.  The platformer feel combined with some puzzle-like activities required you to move things/open up pathways for the dog.  If you did not open them in time, the dog would turn 180 degrees and go backward.  Thus, you had to open/close levels/shells/gates to keep the dog from trying to die.  Curiosity, in this case, killed the dog!.  

The AAAAH!!! Real Monsters games had a fun character swap mechanic.  You will need to change your leader by pressing the L/R buttons based on the situation, as Ickis, Oblina, and Krumm each possess their own special ability.  Control your characters with the D pad or Thumbstick, press down to squat, press up to ascend a ladder, Y to throw a monster, B to jump, A to scare, and X for triple monster moves with the other two.  There are a total of three options depending on your leader.  Ickis, the pink-eared monster, has a frightening fling long jump. Krumm has an EERE Eye ejector to search for hidden rooms. Finally, Oblina the taller monster, can reach higher places with a high jump. All three will stack up. You can throw monsters, and will need to use their individual powers to search for trash.  Navigate through schools, sewers, streets, look for character upgrades, and try to get to the end.  Several of the stages reminded me of Metroid, where you could not access certain areas.  At times, I wanted to move the jump button to A, and I would have liked to move the monster-throw button to a trigger button.  Alas, the game did not allow for button mapping or modification.  The button combinations for the Switch controller felt weird and made several of the levels feel more difficult than they needed to be.  The rewind function was a great update for the game.  However, it did not provide enough of a victory to pull the review up from ~6/10.  

Despite the difficult-to-navigate/learn button combinations, the Splat Pack did provide a few modern quality-of-life upgrades.  No, you cannot button map.  If that were possible, this review would be at least an 7.5/10.  However, like with many modern ports, you gain the ability to save progress, and you can rewind/reverse time to try again.  Let me be clear, these games will not walk you through and give you a trophy at the end.  Games from the 80’s and 90’s did not do this; Elden Ring does not do this, and games like Call of Duty won’t do this either.  You will have to practice the controls, remember the sequence, and die/restart a lot.  The 90’s versions were frustrating!  Guess what, the current ports are frustrating!  Some may find this alluring and a challenge worthy of a quest, while others may want to throw the controller and move on to other games.  With valuable time as a resource, we must choose what games to play.  

I liked the Museum and Music Player feature within the main menu.  One of my favorite memories about gaming was the box art, included instruction manual, and sometimes map (thank you Zelda Overworld Map).  The included Museum and Music Player features will let you listen to soundtracks, while the museum feature will show you the box art and scans of the manual.  I would love for other Switch games to include the original box art and scans.  

Summary:

You will need to determine if you want to scratch your nostalgia itch and reignite your love/hate feeling for retro games. Think Battletoads Turbo Tunnel bike level, Ninja Turtles water level,  Ghosts N’ Goblins, Ninja Gaiden, Eco the Dolphin, and so many more without a Game Genie.  I have grown fond of Limited Run games but feel that this title would benefit from some additional love.  Despite the nostalgia of the Nickelodeon era and memories of Skip-bo, Gak, Pizza Hut family time, and morning cartoons, the constellation of games did not hold up well to time.  Despite the minor upgrades to the graphics and color schemes, they still held their original appeal.  The games felt dusted and cleaned up, with some very superficial upgrades in the ability to rewind, pause, and save (single-game save). The 16-bit retro sound and music library provided the best upgrade/“nostalgia” feel. I liked the original tracks, and the fun cartoony backgrounds.  As far as replayability, I would give the game pack a mid-range of ~6/10.  With so many other games available, I would rather have a Nintendo Switch Online subscription, or pick up a used copy of Disney Classic Games from Game X-Change to remember how mad I got at The Lion King and Aladdin.  

I would have liked a bit more polish and better button mapping/upgrades, so I could enjoy and complete the games.  The price is not unfair for what you get but I missed a few other titles like Ren and Stimpy Games, or possibly Rugrats.  Will I play them again? Probably.  Will I play them frequently? Likely not. 

Learn more about the Nintendo Switch Nickelodeon Splat Pack.

With a four-leg design, four powerful motors, a 660-pound weight capacity, and outstanding customization options, the FlexiSpot E7 Plus Max delivers one of the most stable and capable standing desk experiences available.

FlexiSpot is a company that has been focused on ergonomic furniture since 2016. While they’re best known for their standing desks, they also make office chairs, desk converters, beds, recliners, and other products designed to create more comfortable workspaces. Their goal is to help people stay healthier and more productive by making it easy to switch between sitting and standing throughout the day. Over the years, FlexiSpot has grown into a well-known brand with products sold in more than 80 countries, making it one of the more recognizable names in the ergonomic furniture market.

For this review, I have the E7 Plus Max Standing Desk with the 71″ x 30″ Rubberwood Espresso desktop, and it definitely makes a strong first impression. The 1.57-inch thick solid rubberwood top gives the desk a premium feel, while the dark Espresso finish adds a clean, modern look that fits well in just about any office or gaming setup. If Espresso isn’t your style, FlexiSpot also offers the Rubberwood top in Natural, Walnut, and Black finishes. Beyond Rubberwood, you can also choose from Laminate, Bamboo, Black Walnut Veneer, Black Walnut Wood, White Oak (Made in the EU), Solid Wood (Made in the USA), and even specialty options like Laminate Tabletops with Drawers, Ergo Series, and Gaming Series desktops.

The E7 Plus Max is designed for larger workstations and features a heavy-duty four-leg steel frame with a powerful four-motor lifting system and three-stage lifting columns. Together, they provide exceptional stability throughout the entire height range while also supporting heavier setups. The desk adjusts from 25.8 inches to 51.6 inches, making it suitable for a wide variety of sitting and standing positions. The frame is also adjustable in width from 43.3 to 74.8 inches and supports desktops ranging from 47.2 to 94.5 inches long and 24 to 35.4 inches wide, making it easy to build anything from a simple home office to a large workstation with multiple displays.

FlexiSpot also includes programmable height presets and anti-collision technology for added convenience and safety. The frame supports up to 660 pounds, making it one of the strongest standing desks currently available. Whether you’re running multiple monitors, studio speakers, a desktop PC, or other heavy equipment, this desk is built to handle it all while remaining impressively stable, even at its maximum height. One of the things I like is how customizable the desk is. Between the different desktop materials, finishes, and size options, it’s easy to configure a setup that fits your workspace and personal style.

Unboxing and Setup

The E7 Plus Max ships in three separate boxes. One contains the desktop itself, while the other two contain the frame, legs, motors, and other hardware. One thing I didn’t really appreciate until it arrived was just how substantial this desk is. The frame alone ships in two boxes weighing over 70 pounds each, so before you even add the desktop, you’re already dealing with a lot of weight. Because I chose the largest 71″ x 30″ desktop, everything was pretty heavy and a bit awkward to move around by myself. I definitely recommend having at least one other person help carry everything where it needs to go. Fortunately, my mom was able to help me move everything inside and get it into my office.

From start to finish, assembly took us around two hours. Overall, the instructions were mostly clear and easy to follow, although there were a few areas that could definitely be improved. One thing to note is that FlexiSpot doesn’t include every tool you’ll need. You’ll need to provide your own Phillips screwdriver, and the directions say to a drill on hand as well. While most of the holes are pre-drilled, many of the screws require a good amount of force to install.

For my setup, I used a Milwaukee hex bit drill with both Phillips and Allen bit attachments, and it made the installation process much faster. There are quite a few screws throughout the assembly, and several need to be installed, removed, and reinstalled as you progress through the instructions. Doing everything by hand would have taken considerably longer.

There were also a couple of spots in the instructions that caused some confusion. In Step 3, there’s a triangle icon next to the hardware that we initially thought meant installing additional screws. It actually refers to screws that were already pre-installed on the frame. It took us a while to figure that out, and I think that section could be explained much more clearly.

The other issue I ran into was during Step 7 when installing the control box. My desktop didn’t have the pre-drilled holes shown in the instructions, so I wasn’t comfortable drilling directly into the underside of the desktop myself, even though the top is fairly thick. Instead, I used some heavy-duty double-sided mounting tape that I already had. Once the magnetic cover was installed over everything, it felt very secure, and I haven’t had any concerns about it moving around.

Speaking of the magnetic cover, that was another area where the instructions could use some improvement. It took us a few minutes to figure out the correct orientation because the guide doesn’t clearly show how it should be positioned. We eventually figured it out, but I think adding a couple of arrows or orientation stickers would make installation much easier for first-time users.

Once everything was assembled, keep in mind that the desk becomes significantly heavier. Moving it into its final position is almost certainly going to be a two-person job, especially if you choose one of the larger solid wood desktops like I did.

Overall Use

After getting everything assembled and dialed in, here’s a look at my workspace before and after installing the FlexiSpot E7 Plus Max. The larger desktop, improved stability, and clean design completely transformed my office. It gave me more room for both work and gaming while also making the entire setup feel much more organized. Going from my old desk to the E7 Plus Max has been one of the biggest upgrades I’ve made to my workspace.

Before installing the FlexiSpot E7 Plus Max (left) and my completed setup after the upgrade (right).

I’ve now been using the FlexiSpot E7 Plus Max every night for both work and gaming, and it’s quickly become the centerpiece of my office. My setup consists of two 32-inch curved monitors mounted on monitor arms, my MacBook Air, desktop speakers, a REDMAGIC ASTRA, and all of my other everyday accessories. Even with all of that weight on the desk, it never feels unstable. Whether I’m typing, gaming, adjusting my monitors, or docking my MacBook Air to get some work done, there is very little movement, which is impressive considering how much equipment I have sitting on it.

One of my favorite features is the programmable height presets. I have one preset saved for sitting and another for standing, so switching between the two only takes a single button press. The four motors are smooth, surprisingly quiet, and move the desk at a comfortable speed without feeling jerky. It’s one of those features that you don’t think much about until you start using it every day, and now I couldn’t imagine going back to manually adjusting a desk.

Another thing I really like is the amount of clearance underneath the desk. When it’s in my standing preset, my entire office chair slides completely underneath the desk without hitting the frame or getting in the way. It keeps my office looking much cleaner and gives me plenty of room to move around when I’m standing.

Cable management was another project I wanted to tackle during my setup. FlexiSpot does offer its own cable management accessories, but I didn’t have any for this review. Instead, I used a cable management basket from Amazon along with several zip ties to route everything neatly underneath the desk. With two monitors, monitor arms, speakers, my MacBook Air dock, and several other devices, there are a lot of cables to deal with. Taking the time to organize them made a huge difference and kept everything from looking like a mess of spaghetti wires hanging below the desk. I still think FlexiSpot’s cable management accessories would make a great addition for anyone buying this desk.

If I had one complaint, it would be the USB port built into the control panel. While it’s convenient to have a charging port there, it’s still a USB-A port. In 2026, I would have preferred to see FlexiSpot upgrade it to USB-C since that’s what most modern phones, tablets, and accessories use today. It’s a small complaint and certainly not a dealbreaker, but it would make the desk feel a little more future-proof.

Overall, I’ve been extremely happy with the E7 Plus Max. Between the exceptional stability, smooth lifting system, generous desktop space, and highly customizable design, it’s been a fantastic upgrade to my workspace. Whether I’m writing reviews for MacSources on my MacBook Air, working from my Mac Studio, or spending the evening playing Call of Duty: Mobile, this desk has handled everything I’ve thrown at it without any issues. It has easily become one of my favorite additions to my office.

Conclusion

After spending time with the FlexiSpot E7 Plus Max, it’s easy to see why it has become one of the company’s flagship standing desks. The combination of outstanding stability, premium desktop options, a massive weight capacity, and smooth four-motor lifting system makes it feel like a desk that’s built to last for years. Once assembled, it inspires confidence whether you’re using it for work, gaming, or a combination of both.

While I do think the instructions could be improved in a few areas, and I would have liked to see the USB-A charging port replaced with a more modern USB-C port, neither issue takes away from the overall experience. Assembly is something you’ll only do once, and after that, you’re left with an incredibly solid desk that performs exactly as you’d expect.

If you’re looking for a standing desk that can easily support multiple monitors, heavier equipment, and a large desktop while remaining rock solid at any height, the E7 Plus Max is an excellent choice. It isn’t the cheapest standing desk on the market, but the build quality, customization options, and everyday usability help justify the premium price. After using it every day for both work and gaming, I can confidently say it’s one of the best standing desks I’ve had the opportunity to use.

For more information, visit Flexispot.com