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bit of not-Facebook formerly known as Oculus. We’ve also tested • Volume 27 issue 4
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 CONS 04.23
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HOT STUFF TESTS FEATURES MAKING STUFF UP

06 The Hot Five 29 First test 34 Upvoted Editor-in-Chief

Huawei Watch Buds PlayStation VR 2 Packable jackets Dan Grabham
Deputy Editor
When the headphones aren’t VR not amused… or are we? Cagoule if you think it’s over: how Tom Morgan-Freelander
in-ear, you keep them in ’ere 54 Tested to stay dry but cool this spring Commissioning Editor
Sonos Era 300 Samsung Galaxy Book3 Pro 360 36 Cover feature Rachael Sharpe
Blasting sweet music all over the Best hybrid since the wholphin Best headphones Contributors
Kieran Alger,
room like a sonic muck-spreader 56 Tested In-ear or over-ear, a good pair Rob Clymo,
Honor Magic5 Pro Meta Quest Pro can turn your own head into Esat Dedezade,
If we’ve understood this right, And here VR again… Studio Two at Abbey Road Craig Grannell,
Mike Jennings,
it’s a phone based on a falcon 57 Tested 53 Mini meme Sam Kieldsen,
Leica D-Lux 7 007 Edition DJI Mini 3 Lego apps Simon Lucas,
For taking souvenir snaps of all Even more drone per kilogram Don’t worry, the bricks are Jack Needham,
Libby Plummer,
those exotic supervillain lairs 60 Tested still real (at least for now) Ross Presly,
Lego Rivendell Panasonic Lumix S5 II 58 Beta yourself Richard Purvis,
The nerdiest product in the Waiting for your Pan? Mastodon Caramel Quin,
Chris Rowlands,
history of people making things 62 Group test Enjoy it before terrible people Matt Tate,
Lawnmowers kill it just like they killed Twitter Alan Wen,
14 Vital stats OnePlus Pad Don’t always be the last to mow 68 Tech titans Tom Wiggins
Look out, they’re at it again… 71 Tested Samsung Galaxy S Contact us
16 Stream Sennheiser Ambeo Plus We have arguments about old [email protected]
Succession, and other successes ‘Plus’ in the sense of ‘Minus’ phones so you don’t have to UK subscription and back issue
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18 Icon Razer Viper Mini SE 74 Tested 72 Instant upgrades Overseas subscription orderline:
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20 Games Warning, graphic scenes Includes tips about zebras, but orderline: 1-888-777-0275
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4
MPB has the
UK’s largest
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Shop the full range
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 Thuddin’
impact
The composite planar
diaphragms used in the
earphones are similar to those
found in Huawei’s premium
FreeBuds Pro 2, with a
mighty 104dB peak
volume.

HOT
FIVE
#1
THE BUDS,
THE RAD AND
THE SNUGLY
Huawei Watch Buds
Peer inside most watches and you’d see a
bunch of impossibly tiny cogs and springs,
or a load of boring old circuitry – but open
the hinged 1.43in AMOLED screen on
Huawei’s latest smartwatch and you’ll find
something much more useful: a pair of
Bluetooth earphones.
Smaller than usual in order to fit inside the
stainless steel case, the bullet-style buds
offer a modest 3hr battery life with the
ANC turned on, but they still have tap
controls and will auto-pause your tunes
when you take them out.
A leather strap clamps the timekeeper
to your wrist, which allows the sensors
underneath to monitor your heart rate and
SpO2. It also has an accelerometer and a
gyroscope, with Huawei’s HarmonyOS 3.0
able to track over 80 different exercises
and activities – although only the buds are
water-resistant, so you’ll have to take it
off before going for a swim.
Battery life is an Apple Watch-esque three
days away from the mains, but you can up
that to seven if you flick to power-saving
mode – and that includes topping up the
buds a few times.
As hot as… a coal-fired pocket watch
£450 / consumer.huawei.com

6
 ALL THE
BIGGEST
STORIES FROM
PLANET TECH

Where
eagles pair
The watch works with both
Android and iOS devices, and
you can connect the buds
to any Bluetooth source so
there’s no need to fork out
for another set to use
with your laptop.

High
pane’s lifter
The watch is a touch
chunkier than Huawei’s
others, for obvious reasons,
but it comes with the same
3D curved glass face and
Clous de Paris crown as
the Watch GT 3.

7
 Hungry
smart
There’s a mic for Trueplay
tuning and voice commands.
Sonos has its own system but
Alexa is supported too, and
there’s a mute button on
the back if you want to
cover its ears.

8
 Borne in
the USB
It’s still possible to connect
old-fashioned wired sources
to the Era 300, but you’ll need
to buy a dongle that allows
you to plug an aux cable
into the speaker’s
USB-C port.

HOT
FIVE
#2
BLINDED BY
THE HEIGHT
Sonos Era 300
It’s been nearly a century since a trip to Alan
Blumlein’s local cinema gave the English
engineer the idea for stereo sound – and
while most of us have moved on from
playing thick shellac records on the Edison
phonographs of the early 20th century,
two-channel audio remains the dominant
format for playing back tunes. But maybe
not for much longer.
The six drivers inside the new Sonos Era
300 all point in different directions – two
woofers and two tweeters are angled left
and right, another tweeter points forwards,
and a fourth aims upwards to reflect sound
off the ceiling – meaning you can use it to
listen to spatial audio. Right now, it only
supports Dolby Atmos via Amazon Music
Unlimited, but you can also pair two Eras
with a Sonos Arc or Beam (Gen 2) for full-on
Atmos surround sound.
Six class-D digital amplifiers should give
We take each Era 300 enough oomph to fill a room
pair of our own on its own, though, and Sonos has finally
Bluetooth is a new addition extended its Trueplay customisation tech
for a mains-powered Sonos, to Android owners (although it doesn’t use
with a button for pairing, but the phone’s microphones for fine-tuning
Wi-Fi remains the prime like on iOS). If only Alan were still around to
connection method. hear it – it’d blow his socks off.
Wi-Fi 6 and AirPlay 2 As hot as… a new Bing Crosby single in 1932
are supported. £449 / sonos.com

9
 Quantum
of spotlights
A hot shoe on the top plate
supports detachable flashes
and other accessories, plus it’s
engraved with the edition
number of your camera.
Fingers crossed for
number 7.

HOT
FIVE
#3
RAPTOR’S
DELIGHT
Honor Magic5 Pro
People often bang on about how fast
cheetahs are, but if we had to back any
beast in an all-animal-kingdom drag race
it would be the peregrine falcon. It’s been
clocked diving through the skies at speeds
of almost 250mph, so no wonder the three
speedy 50MP snappers on the back of
Honor’s Magic5 Pro are named after this
rapid little raptor.
The phone’s Millisecond Falcon Capture
algorithm is designed to speed up focus
time and shutter speed, so you can
capture sharp shots of fast-moving
subjects – although the 3.5x optical zoom
is nothing compared to a falcon’s eyes,
which can pick out prey from nearly two
miles away. But you won’t find a 6.81in
OLED screen on the bird, especially not
one with 2848x1312 resolution, a 120Hz
refresh rate or 1800 nits of brightness.
And the phone’s powered by a 5100mAh
battery, so there’s no need to feed it live
pigeons to keep its Snapdragon 8 Gen 2
processor flying.
Throw in 12GB of RAM, 256GB of storage
and IP68 dust/water-resistance, and the
Magic5 Pro looks more than capable
of fighting for a place at the top of the
smartphone food chain.
As hot as… Millennium Falcon speed trials
£tba / hihonor.com

10
 From pusher
with love
The camera can be
connected to Leica’s Fotos
mobile app for downloading
shots, adjusting settings and
triggering the shutter
remotely. Q would
be proud.

HOT
FIVE
#4
LICENCE TO STILL
Leica D-Lux 7 007 Edition
In James Bond’s line of work a red dot selecting your target, or you can use the
usually means you’re on the wrong end touchscreen display on the back.
of a sniper’s scope, but when it comes to Underneath the textured covering it’s
cameras it’s a much more promising sign. the same as a regular D-Lux 7, with a 17MP
The spy As well as Leica’s own familiar branding, Micro Four Thirds sensor that rivals Bond
who gloved me this limited-edition D-Lux also has the himself in terms of getting its shots off: it
If you’re on a mission that 007 logo etched into the top plate, while has a burst mode that can manage 11fps,
requires your camera to go the cap covering the 24-75mm lens and shoots 4K at 30fps.
undetected, the 007 Edition mimics the films’ famous gun-barrel Production is limited to just 1962 units, in
comes with a leather opening sequence. a nod to the year Dr No was released – so
shoulder holster so you Operation is fully manual, so you adjust while it’s not quite for your eyes only, it’s
can secrete it inside the f1.7-2.8 aperture using a control ring still almost as rare as a woman who can
your tux. on the lens barrel, and tweak the exposure resist Bond’s advances.
value and shutter speed using dials on the As hot as… the SPECTRE summer barbecue
top plate. An EVF viewfinder is built in for £1750 / leica-camera.com

11
 If you
cleave me now
Rivendell might’ve been
filled with peaceful scholars
and diplomats, but its
blacksmiths knew their stuff.
For bashing orcs there’s
nowt better than
Elvish steel.

HOT
FIVE
#5
HARD HOBBIT TO BREAK
Lego The Lord of the Rings: Rivendell
If you thought it took a long time to get tower, complete with five grey minifig
through Peter Jackson’s Lord of the Rings statues of famous warriors past; and the
movies, wait till you sit down to build this final one features a gazebo, river and bridge,
6167-piece model of Middle-earth’s most so you can recreate the scene where the
famous Elven stronghold. Fellowship departs Rivendell.
It’s not clear whether the 18+ on the box You also get various new Lego elements
is an age rating or how many hours it’ll take to hiss “my precioussss” at while you build,
to construct, but when finished it measures such as Bilbo’s sword Sting, the broken
39cm tall, 75cm across and 50cm deep, shards of Narsil, and various other weapons.
with 15 minifigs – including Frodo, Gandalf, If nothing else, it should help you banish the
Aragorn and Legolas – to guard its three memory of watching The Rings of Power
sections. The first includes Elrond’s study, on Amazon Prime. That’s eight hours of your
Frodo’s bedroom and The Council Ring, with life you’re never getting back.
its ring of chairs and the plinth where the As hot as… sunbathing on Mount Doom
ring is first revealed; the second is the Elven £430 / lego.com

12
V I T A L S T A T S
There’s an 8MP
selfie-cam on the
front, plus a set of

YOU GIVE LOVE stereo speakers

that can play Dolby
Atmos audio.

A PAD NAME
OnePlus Pad
£tba / oneplus.com

A big battery and even aspect ratio, which OnePlus apps, plus 5G signal-sharing and
bigger screen make reckons gives it a book-like feel, cross-device notifications if you
the first OnePlus tablet and a rapid 144Hz refresh rate. also have a OnePlus phone. THE BATTERY
a serious iPad rival
OPad behaviour OPad decisions
WILL LAST FOR
OPad influence
It’s been nearly 10 years since
Powered by a Dimensity 9000 CPU
and 8GB RAM, the Pad isn’t lacking
Like any self-respecting modern
tablet the OnePlus Pad isn’t really
A MONTH IN
OnePlus appeared on the scene in oomph, although the 128GB of complete without one or both of STANDBY AND
and upside-downed the tech
world with its unusually affordable
onboard storage feels a bit stingy.
More generous is the 9510mAh
its main accessories. Anyone who
wants to tap out anything longer
HAS SPEEDY
phones – and now it could be
about to do the same with its
battery, which will last long enough
for a 12hr film marathon with a
than the odd tweet will be tempted
to add the Magnetic Keyboard,
67W CHARGING
first tablet. Cut from aluminium bit to spare (or a whole month while the more artfully inclined
and finished in an eye-catching in standby), with speedy 67W will probably prefer the Stylo
green, the rear of the Pad features charging over USB-C for when for sketching. Pre-orders for
a central 13MP camera while the it eventually conks out. It runs everything start in April – and
front is almost all 11.61in LCD, with OxygenOS 13.1, which is based while there’s no word on price yet,
the slimmest of bezels around the on Android 13 but adds nifty if the firm’s phones are anything to
2800x2000 display. It has a 7:5 features such as split-screen go by it’ll be bargainish.

14
MORE FROM
ONEPLUS
OOnePlus 11 Compost that lovin’ feelin’
Unveiled in China in January, and
given a five-star review in this
MAJORITY TRU BIO
very magazine last month, Usually it’s only things like potato peelings, coffee grounds and banana
the OnePlus 11 is now available skins that can go on the compost heap, but when you’re done with
throughout the world. See just Majority’s Tru Bio earphones you can chuck them on top too. Made
how good we think it is on p84. of biodegradable plastic with 13mm bio-cellulose drivers, these
from £729 Bluetooth 5.3 buds will eventually return to the earth. Until then, you’ll
get 7.5hrs of eco-friendly listening from the buds plus three full
OOnePlus Buds Pro 2 charges in the case, for a total of up to 30hrs between visits to the
Available in either black or a mains. They also offer IPX7 water/sweat-resistance, so they won’t
shade of green that matches start breaking down in your ears if you get caught in a downpour. The
the Pad, these Dynaudio-tuned only weird thing? They don’t come in green – just white, blue or pink.
buds have dual drivers, ANC, and £35 / majority.co.uk
six-axis gyroscopes to enable
spatial audio skills.
£179

OOnePlus Featuring
Keyboard 81 Pro
Not to be confused with the
Pad’s optional keyboard, this
mechanical QWERTY has RGB
lighting and will work wirelessly
with Macs and PCs.
£tba

Ladies and gentlemen VR floating in space

BIGSCREEN BEYOND
Nobody wants to wear a VR headset that feels like a copper diving
helmet, so Bigscreen has defied its own name and made the smallest
one in the world. At 155g, you could strap three of these to your face
and they’d still be lighter than a PSVR2 (tested on p29). That doesn’t
mean its specs are lightweight, though, with a 2560x2560 Micro OLED
display for each eye and built-in SteamVR Tracking – although you’ll
need to supply your own base stations and controllers. Oh, and a PC to
plug it into. You’ll also need an iPhone with a TrueDepth sensor to scan
your face first so Bigscreen can send you a Beyond that fits. Because
nobody wants to wear a VR headset that’s the wrong kind of small.
from £1149 / bigscreenvr.com

15
16
 S T R E A M

What have telly addicts got to look forward

to this month? Murder, cannibalism, terrible
parenting and the end of the world, mostly…

Boston Strangler Extrapolations Yellowjackets

We begin with the true story of ’60s Where to start when it comes Taking place on two timelines – the
reporter Loretta McLaughlin (Keira to tackling a subject as vast and present day and the 1990s – this
Knightley), who first claimed that a complex as climate change? You masterful mystery series is rich
series of murders were the work of could give up and move to Mars… in murder, betrayal, cannibalism,
one person. McLaughlin and fellow or try telling eight individual but humour and a hint of supernatural
journalist Jean Cole faced sexist interconnected stories over eight string-pulling. Will we finally find
scepticism in their bid to unmask episodes, each focusing on how out how those high-school girls
the killer we now know as – well a warming world affects people survived in the wilderness for so
done if you worked this out from and places. The huge cast includes long, and why they’re still haunted
the title – the Boston Strangler. Meryl Streep and Kit Harington. by it 30 years later?
Film / Disney+, 17 March S1 / Apple TV+, 17 March S2 / Paramount+, 24 March

Murder Mystery 2 Tetris The Portable Door

We know, we know – a Netflix The legendary puzzle game that Shortly after starting an internship
comedy vehicle for Adam Sandler became a global smash with the with a reputable London firm, young
and Jennifer Aniston has absolutely launch of Nintendo’s Game Boy has Paul Carpenter discovers his new
no right to be any good. But if this a far more interesting history than employers are anything but above
sequel is half as slickly entertaining you might think – one that involves board. In fact, they’re experimenting
as the first Murder Mystery the KGB. It’s been brought to the with sinister forces in a bid to bring
it’ll almost make us forgive the screen in this fast-moving drama modern-day business ‘disruption’
company (and Sandler) for making starring Taron Egerton and Toby to the world of magic. We had you
Hubie Halloween. Straightforward Jones, proving nothing’s sexier than at ‘sinister’, didn’t we? Based on a
dumb fun. intellectual property rights disputes. series of comic-fantasy novels.
Film / Netflix, 31 March Film / Apple TV+, 31 March Film / Sky/Now, 7 April

Succession
TH ISS T
M ON’

Our highlight for this month has to be the return of Succession. This tale of sibling rivalry,
monstrous parents and right-wing media conglomerates is nasty, cynical… and without a
D

doubt one of the funniest and most enjoyable shows of the current moment. This season
IS

should see the consequences of the Roys’ family schism play out, as perma-glowering
patriarch Logan (Brian Cox) staves off the challenge set by his three youngest children.
S4 / Sky/Now, 27 March

17
 I C O N
THE BUTTONS
USE IR BEAMS TO
RAZER VIPER REGISTER CLICKS
WITH A RESPONSE
MINI SIGNATURE TIME OF 0.2MS
EDITION
£280 / razer.com
That mouse has got holes in it.
And we always thought it was
supposed to be the rodents that
ate the cheese, not the other way
around. However that particular
branch of the food chain works,
if you want to become an apex
predator of PC gaming you might
want to add Razer’s new Viper
Mini Signature Edition to your
arsenal. The game-tech masters
have hollowed it out and removed
any unnecessary bulk, cutting the
weight down to just 49g – that
makes it the lightest pointer Razer
has ever made, and only about as
heavy as a couple of the ones with
whiskers living under your floor.

And what’s the point of that?

Well, if you want to make a car go
faster, one of the easiest ways
is to make it lighter. The same
applies if you’re trying to speed
up your mouse, which is crucial
if you don’t want your reaction
times to be slowed down. Razer
tried carbon fibre, titanium and
various plastics before settling on
magnesium alloy for the Viper Mini
Signature Edition’s exoskeleton
because of its strength-to-weight
ratio. The buttons use IR beams to
register your clicks, which cuts the
response time to 0.2ms – about
three times faster than a normal
mechanical mouse.

So what’s left inside, then?

There’s a battery that will last up
to 60hrs between charges, but
you can also plug it in with the
included 1.8m-long USB cable
if it’s about to die when you’re
on a winning streak. It uses a
pre-paired wireless dongle that
registers the mouse’s position
4000 times a second – which,
combined with the 30,000dpi
optical sensor underneath,
should mean it’s as accurate
as it is agile. The only problem
is, you’ll no longer be able to
blame your Warzone defeats
on a sluggish rodent.

18
 WTF IS
Stay wear you are GOOGLE
GARMIN VIVOMOVE TREND
If you prefer movie marathons to ultramarathons, a lot of Garmin’s
BARD?
watches are packed with features you’ll never use – but the Vivomove
Trend is much more at home, well, at home. It’s a hybrid, which means it Finally, a Shakespearean search engine.
has both proper analogue hands for telling the time and an LED display Nice idea, thou gorbellied, fat-kidneyed
to show fitness stats and phone notifications, but the latter fades into hedge-pig, but Google Bard does much
the face when not needed. It’ll track steps, stress, sleep and other stuff more than help you look up some of Quill
that doesn’t begin with ‘s’, such as heart rate and blood oxygen, but Bill’s best insults. This AI-powered chatbot
it needs your phone for GPS. There’s also Garmin Pay support and uses a natural language model to answer
wireless charging, and the battery lasts up to five days – which should questions in a more sophisticated and
be more than enough for even the most gruelling home cinema session. human-sounding way than a standard
£280 / garmin.com search engine, so you can ask complex,
open questions and get more considered
answers, rather than just a list of websites
to trawl through. It means you can ask
things like, “Is it easier to learn the guitar
or the bagpipes?” rather than just factual
stuff like how many strings a Telecaster has.

That’s easy, it’s six.

Well done. With brains like that you should
be safe from being replaced by a robot for
a few years yet. That said, Google’s first
demo of Bard suggests the AI revolution
isn’t exactly imminent anyway. When asked
about discoveries made by Nasa’s James
Webb Space Telescope, it confidently
claimed that it had taken the first pictures
of a planet outside of our own solar system,
which a uranus of astronomers (that is the
correct collective noun, right?) were quick
to point out is wrong. That accolade actually
belongs to the imaginatively named Very
Large Telescope down here on Earth.

What an idiot! Everybody knows that…

Weave got it goin’ on And it’s not like the internet isn’t already full
LENOVO THINKPAD Z13 GEN 2 of made-up tosh, right? So actually it’ll fit
right in. To begin with, Bard is only available
You’ve tried plant-based milk, you’ve even tried a plant-based Big Mac, as part of a limited beta, but Google will
but how about a plant-based laptop? As well as being made from 75% make it more widely available “in the coming
recycled aluminium, the second-gen Z13 has the option of a woven flax weeks” and eventually it’ll just be part of
finish bonded to the lid, which doesn’t just up its eco credentials even your everyday searches. In the meantime,
further but also helps to keep the weight down to just 1.19kg. The 13.3in you can always play around with ChatGPT,
machine is powered by AMD’s latest Ryzen 7000-series CPUs, and can which can already generate its own version
be fitted with as much as 64GB of RAM and 2TB of PCIe SSD storage. of Three Blind Mice as if it were written
Its skinny dimensions limit connectivity, so you only get two USB-4 by Shakespeare. Well, it’s always nice to
ports and a headphone socket plus a fingerprint sensor. Still, that’s not have more robots to talk to, because as
bad for something that looks like a flattened Shredded Wheat. Menenius says in Coriolanus: “More of your
from €1649 / lenovo.com conversation would infect my brain.”

19
 G A M E S

OUT
29 AUG

FIRST PLAY SEA OF STARS Switch, PC, PS5, PS4

One of the best retro-inspired detailed whether you’re in an attack is about to land.
games of the last decade was a town or a dungeon, or even Special attacks have their
The Messenger, which cleverly wandering the overworld map. own unique prompts, so for
incorporated both 8-bit and It also has a more modern feel instance you can hold down
16-bit graphic styles to tell as you can clamber up and down a button to charge up Zale’s
the story of a ninja travelling the environments – and even sunball for increased damage
through time – and transformed switch between the two lead to multiple enemies.
from action side-scroller to protagonists, sun swordsman That said, enemies can hit
Metroidvania. That game’s Zale and lunar monk Valere. back just as hard – so it’s equally
indie developer, Sabotage Dungeons also have plenty of important to return to a campfire
Studio, now turns its hand to puzzle-solving as well as battles, to rest, cook and replenish your
the 16-bit RPG. though it’s still the latter that health and magic. You can even
[ Words Alan Wen ]

But Sea of Stars isn’t trying to stand out. There are no random share spooky campfire stories
slavishly replicate a SNES game. encounters like the RPGs of old, with one of your allies.
Its pixel art has more vibrant and you can also increase your Can’t wait for the 29 August
colours with modern dynamic damage or defence through release? A demo is available on
lighting, and the art is incredibly timed button presses just as the Nintendo eShop now.

20
 FIRST LOOK MOTHER NATURE’S FUN

OUT
21 JULY

PIKMIN 4 exploring a mysterious planet,

which looks perhaps similar to
you send an army to take
down large bug enemies or
a nose, but he’s reliable for
smashing objects and moving
Switch
your backyard if it happened move obstacles. Ice Pikmin obstacles, and you can even
Switch owners have already to be gigantic. Fortunately, are the latest type to join for ride on his back along with
had the chance to refamiliarise you can pluck Pikmin then this instalment; they can be your Pikmin.
themselves with Nintendo’s command them with your used to freeze both enemies Hopefully he won’t make
tiny plant-like creatures via whistle to help you with a and environments. the game too easy – because
the Wii U port Pikmin 3 Deluxe, variety of tasks. However, the real standout for all its adorable aesthetics,
but now a new strategy puzzle While these critters may here is Oatchi, a new space this series has always been
adventure is on its way. seem easily squishable, dog who joins you as a adept at capturing the cruelty
As in previous entries, you they’re tough when grouped companion. We’re slightly of nature as much as any
play as a diminutive astronaut together, as you’ll see when weirded out that he lacks Attenborough documentary.

BEST OF 2D GAMES THAT LOOK FLAT-OUT GREAT

PLANET OF LANA DISNEY ILLUSION ISLAND HARMONY: THE FALL OF REVERIE

PC, XSX, XB1 Switch Switch, PS5, XSX, PC
If you’ve played the cinematic platforming Evoking the classic yet modern art style The creators of Life is Strange go for
masterpiece Inside, this is like a more of the more recent Mickey Mouse shorts, 2D dreamlike artwork, the perfect vibe
chilled version set on a strange yet lush this platformer has you playing as Mickey, for a narrative adventure that sees your
alien planet where you’re accompanied by Minnie, Donald and Goofy as you run, protagonist Polly discover her gift of
a cute creature to help you solve puzzles… jump, swim and swing across a host of clairvoyance, connecting her to a parallel
though there are also some machines out strange worlds. Perfect for four-player realm where she becomes the goddess
to get you. It should be out this spring. couch co-op? It’s released on 28 July. Harmony. This one’s coming in June.

INCOMING
APRIL
OSTAR WARS JEDI: SURVIVOR
ODEAD ISLAND 2
OADVANCE WARS 1+2: RE-BOOT CAMP
OMINECRAFT LEGENDS
MAY
OTHE LEGEND OF ZELDA:
TEARS OF THE KINGDOM
OREDFALL
ODARKEST DUNGEON II

21
W H E E L S
Audi Activesphere Concept
TERRAINY DAYS
Chunky tyres,
electronically
controlled AWD and
variable ground clearance
AND MONDAYS
mean the Activesphere
can tackle all sorts
of surfaces.

£N/A (concept) / audi.co.uk NEWS DASHBOARD

Oh what an Activesphere, fairly spartan, what’s there is

we love a party with a happy wonderfully finished with lots
Activesphere. of tech trimmings, including
Indeed, but this is no party wagon. four mixed-reality headsets.
It’s a mash-up of luxury coupé A smorgasbord of MR driver aids
and pickup, with lots of features could certainly help pep up any
aimed at those with a penchant weekend adventure.
for the outdoor life, including ARIYA READY? A G9 FOR LIFE STAR SCALER
beefy 22in wheels. And at almost It’s fully electric, presumably? This Arctic-ready The G9 is a new The Polestar 2 is
5m long, it’s a beast. Yes, and this rugged all-purpose Nissan Ariya all-electric SUV getting a ‘2024’
vehicle features autonomous e-4orce has been from Chinese outfit revamp, bringing
Is it practical, then? capabilities, while the 325kW specially developed XPeng that could styling tweaks that
Well, at 2m wide and 1.6m high powertrain gives it plenty of edge for a 27,000km reach the UK by include a smooth
with a 2.97m wheelbase it’s no matter what the road, track husband-and-wife 2025. Best of SmartZone grille
certainly roomy – and occupants or trail is like. That could also mean journey from Pole the three model and zingier 20in
get a good view of the road a 0-62mph time of under 5secs. to Pole. The electric options looks alloys on the
with all that glass. Meanwhile, SUV’s adapted to be the AWD Performance
the Sportback-style rear end Will it ever become a reality? suspension and Performance, Pack model. More
includes a panel that folds out Probably, one way or another. 39in tyres should which has dual power means an
to offer pickup-style versatility. The Activesphere is based around help Brits Chris and motors producing improved 0-62mph
It’s a real weekend warrior able to Audi’s PPE modular system, which Julie Ramsey get 543bhp. You get a time of 6.2secs for
handle skis, bikes, tents and more. means it’s got twin-motor drive through the snow 0-62mph time of single-motor RWD
and quick-charging 800V tech and ice. It’s got a 3.9secs, a range of cars; dual-motor
So, premium or pure utility? with a range of over 370 miles. wind turbine and 323 miles, and two models should be
This is an Audi, so it’s reasonable We might well get a variation on solar panels for 15in infotainment able to get there in
to expect a premium interior… and the concept’s theme as soon as recharging. screens to gaze at. just 4.5secs.
while the cockpit layout is actually 2026, possibly in a range of EVs.

22
 I’m handy fly me
DJI MINI 2 SE NEWS FEED
When you fly on a budget airline you have to forgo certain things – like
luggage, decent scran and any remaining shred of dignity that you were ONEPLUS IS TAKIN’
clinging onto – but taking to the skies with DJI’s extremely affordable IT TO THE PLEATS
new drone is a much less demeaning experience. Its onboard camera OnePlus has a folding phone on the
uses a 1/2.3in CMOS sensor that shoots 12MP photos and 2.7K video, way. Due to launch before the end
with a three-axis gimbal to keep things level, while its basic flight of the year, the device doesn’t have
assists and level-five wind resistance should ensure it’s steady in the a name or any pictures yet – but as
air for up to 31 minutes. The Mini 2 SE naturally weighs less than 250g, OnePlus is owned by Oppo, it wouldn’t
so you can afford to fly it pretty much anywhere without any risk of be a huge surprise if it ended up looking
scrambling a squadron of fighter jets. not unlike the recently launched Find
£339 / dji.com N2 (pictured).

NOW iPHONE PICTURES

CAN ERASE THEIR GAME
The Google Pixel’s nifty Magic Eraser
is now available on all phones, including
iPhones – but it’ll cost you. The smart
photo-editing tool, which uses AI to
remove unwanted distractions from
your pics, has been added to the Google
Photos app, but only if you’re a Google
One subscriber. That starts at £1.59/m.

SONY’S CHEAP CANS ARE A

V1 CHIP OFF THE OLD BLOCK
Sony’s new £100 headphones use the
same V1 processing chip as its flagship
WH-1000XM5s. The WH-CH720N
over-ears, available in black, blue or
white, also offer active noise-cancelling
and last up to 35hrs before the battery
needs charging. In the market for a new
pair? Turn to p36 for our ultimate guide.
How can you mend a broken smart?
NOKIA G22 AND THE NITS JUST KEEP
ON COMING FOR PHILIPS
A smashed screen usually means a trip to some dodgy geezer Philips has a new top-notch telly. The
in a tiny shop to have a new one fitted, but Nokia’s new G22 is a Google-powered OLED+908 throws
clumsy/stingy person’s dream. It’s designed to be repairable with out 2100 nits of brightness from the
standard tools, so you can buy replacements for the 6.52in HD+ screen front, with three-sided Ambilight to
(£45), 5050mAh battery (£23) and USB-C charging port (£19) and make watching Antiques Road Trip
swap them yourself. It’d be nice to be able to upgrade the Unisoc T606 even more immersive. Coming in 55,
processor and 4GB RAM, but for this price you can’t expect anything 65 and 77in sizes, it also has an 80W
too beefy – and you’ll want to look after the trio of rear cameras Bowers & Wilkins soundbar built in.
because those are locked in place too. Want a simpler upgrade? You
can always boost the storage just by adding a microSD card.
£150 / nokia.com

23
 STUFF MEETS

Steve Masters
RACCOON LOGIC’S GAME to a few core titles. I have lost
way too many hours in both

DESIGN DIRECTOR EXPLAINS

Rocket League and PUBG;
I love hanging out, competing
and having crazy adventures.

HIS ‘FUN FIRST’ PHILOSOPHY One of the incredible things

about gaming is how much it
has changed over the years.
One of the first things I worked
on as a tester was a helicopter
Ultimately, puzzle… or running a full team it is to the central idea of the flight sim; it had a 32x32km
I’m the review where we play the game. When you start to think world. We now use the same
one who’s game, take notes and decide about all the possibilities in a amount of information it took
responsible what needs improvement. game, doors just keep opening to create that world to create
for making in front of you and you start just one character.
whatever Designing games is as much running in endlessly expanding
game I’m working on fun. an art as it is a science. spirals. What’s more valuable We’ve also seen games go
I work on everything from how There’s no fixed way of doing is to get something, anything, from being something that
the player’s character moves things, and I strive to keep done. And what’s most valuable weirdos did in their bedrooms
and reacts to the world around evolving. But I always want is to tackle the central part to being the largest form of
them to how enemies behave, to start by asking why we’re of your game. Is it a shooter? entertainment out there.
the gadgets and abilities, the making this thing. It’s easy to Then shooting. A platformer? I think gaming is super-exciting
progression systems – just start the other way around, Then jumping. And so on. to work in as it offers so many
about everything, really! but that often leads to not possibilities – from console
having a clear picture of what I play a lot of games but always games to mobile games, from
A core part of my job is to truly belongs in the game return to the same ones. VR and AR to gamifying your
create and communicate or not – you can just end up I do cycle through a bunch of exercise routine. I don’t think
the vision of the gameplay. adding more and more useless games to check out what they any one style will take over,
I have to make sure everyone things. If you have a clear offer and stay up to date with I just think the whole world
on the team understands picture, you can much more what’s going on, but generally is going to become players
what the game is and what’s easily answer “Does this idea speaking I’ll always come back of games. We all love to play!
going to make it fun, and then fulfil our purpose?”
work with everyone to realise
that vision and bring it to life. Since games are so complex,
I break problems down into “IT’S AS MUCH AN ART AS A SCIENCE,
I’ve had the pleasure of
working on a few games
smaller and smaller chunks.
I always prioritise what to
BUT I ALWAYS START BY ASKING
that turned out pretty good. work on based on how close WHY WE’RE MAKING THIS THING”
I was the lead game designer
on Assassin’s Creed:
Brotherhood, Splinter Cell:
Conviction and Assassin’s
Creed III, and the design
director of the Star Wars
Battlefront II single-player
campaign [right]. I also worked
as a game designer on the
original Assassin’s Creed and
Rainbow Six: Vegas. There’s
a bunch more, but those are
some of my favourites.

I get to drive the overall

direction of the gameplay.
On any given day I’ll be tuning
the placement of a camera or
discussing the next creature
we’re designing and what
[ Interview Rachael Sharpe ]

attacks it needs to have.

Then I’ll be working with the
UX [user experience] team
to review designs on a new
crafting system, checking in
with the audio designers or
working with level designers
to figure out how to create a

24
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 F I R S T T E S T P L AY S TAT I O N V R 2

Kit just got real

Console virtual reality reaches the next generation: Sony’s new hardware is as
high-end as the PS5 needed to play it. But is there a games library to match?

£530 / go.stuff.tv/PSVR2

rriving on the wrong at least, the PSVR2 represents a battery dying halfway through eyes, and the motor that subtly

A side of Christmas,
and costing more
than the PS5 that
generational leap forward.
While Meta’s all-in-one Quest
headsets (see p56) can be used
a game of Pistol Whip. There’s
no built-in audio either, so
you’ll need to either plug in
vibrates during games.
The first time you connect,
it takes a while to calibrate the
you need to play games on completely wirelessly, there’s the bundled buds or connect headset and use the controllers
it, Sony’s second stab at a VR a single 4.5m-long USB-C cable a pair of Bluetooth ones. to outline your playspace (you’ll
[ Words Matt Tate ]

headset might seem like a hard here that you need to plug into Motion-tracking is handled need at least 2x2m, or half that
sell. But with an improved design, your PS5, so you can never truly by four cameras that also let you when seated). But within 10mins
4K visuals, better controllers, forget you’ve got the headset see your surroundings. What we’re up and running… and ready
3D audio and eye-tracking tech, on. But that does also mean you you won’t see is the IR camera to find out if Sony can finally
there’s no doubt that, on paper don’t have to worry about the inside, used for tracking your bring VR to the mainstream.

29
 F I R S T T E S T P L AY S TAT I O N V R 2

1 The real rim shady 2 You made me real eyes

The PSVR2 distributes its 560g ‘Foveated rendering’ tech focuses
weight evenly around your head, processing power on the area
which makes it one of the more you’re looking at, which is initially
comfortable headsets to strap on. a bit jarring, but the benefits are
It also does a great job of blocking clear when you admire the details 2
out light, but there’s still a vent of your bow in Horizon Call of the
to let air in so you shouldn’t find Mountain. Add the haptic taps,
it steaming up. and this is truly next-gen VR.

3 A real flow drag 4 You really plot me

The dreaded screen door effect, Occasionally the headset will
where the tiny gaps between struggle when you wave your
pixels make it seem like you’re hands in front of the cameras at
peering through a mesh, is only close distance, but the tracking
really visible if you’re looking issues of the original PSVR are
for it. The blur on fast-moving pretty much gone. Eye-tracking
characters as you follow with is accurate, and using your gaze
your head is more distracting. to navigate menus feels intuitive.

5 All I really want to view

The list of launch titles has plenty
to keep newbies entertained
for months, and VR updates
to games such as Resident Evil
Village and Gran Turismo 7 will
help; but it’s a huge shame there
isn’t full backward-compatibility 4
with all original PSVR titles.

24 hours with
. tle
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sic

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3mins 5mins 10mins 20mins 30mins 1hr 2hrs 4hrs 5hrs

30
 F I R S T T E S T P L AY S TAT I O N V R 2

Tech specs
1
Resolution 2x 2040x2000 OLED,
90/120Hz Lenses 110° Tracking
4x cameras, IR eye-tracking
Controllers 2x Sense Connectivity
USB-C, Bluetooth 5.1 Weight 560g

Sense is working overtime

The old Move controllers, which looked like rave
accessories, have been replaced by sci-fi hand-halos

Q Loop Q Group
The Sense controllers are Each of the controllers
a bit like PS5 DualSense has its own analogue stick,
pads snapped in half, with two face buttons, a trigger
tracking rings that loop and an L1/R1 button on
over your wrists and the side, but it takes a
straps to stop you dropping while to figure out which
them. They’re light enough is which. The buttons are
to hold for hours. also a bit on the small side.

Q Whoop Q Droop
Tactile features such as You can expect to be
finger-touch detection, plugging your controllers
PS5-style adaptive in to charge after 3-4hrs.
trigger tech and haptic That would be dreadful
feedback are what really battery life on a standard
elevate these controllers. gamepad, but VR sessions
You feel like you’re actually tend to be a lot shorter
pulling back a bow-string. than regular sofa gaming.

The PSVR2 is an improvement in

every way that matters: it’s easier
to set up and has great controllers,
wonderful optics and futuristic
eye-tracking tech. We can’t ignore
that many of the launch games have already
se d
ed of

re ?
s. a

ad an
fo es

t.
e! he
fix t

pt ing
ly fec

be siv

he se
nc f t

appeared elsewhere, though, and it needs

.
da ct

ie l o

he u
ge ef

se lu
n a tra

f t to
el exc
er al
ar r
s l oo

more as good as Horizon Call of the Mountain

xp n C
oo dis

of sy
ng R
m nd

a
n e izo
is

hi V

hip e
ee ee

to become a must-buy. @MattWTate

w is
ain g’

yt er
o r
br rin
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to iew
er th
s

ha H
et g s

ev o
ur de

W up
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yo en

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ai pe
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s h ro
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, b te

STUFF SAYS ++++,

ve th
e p re
ou r
st a
de di

M ew
fir ve

sa e-
I’v he
ol he

‘Fo

Se
I’v

W
T

Mightily impressive hardware, but

it doesn’t have a games library to
make the most of it… yet
14hrs 16hrs 18hrs 21hrs 24hrs

31
 F I R S T T E S T P L AY S TAT I O N V R 2

The launch lineup:

Essential PSVR2 experiences
A headset lives and dies on its library of games. So how’s it looking so far?

Horizon Call
of the Mountain
This is a new entry in one of PlayStation’s
biggest modern franchises, and one that was
built from the ground up for VR. The opening five
minutes – a Jurassic Park-style boat ride that
replaces real dinosaurs with the series’ robotic
equivalent – are simply breathtaking.
Whether you’re scaling rock faces, pinging
arrows at a vicious Walker, gasping in awe at a
giant Tallneck or simply leaning in too close to
in-game characters while you’re talking to them
to see how they react (it’s funny, try it), Call of
the Mountain is an incredibly immersive 6-8hr
romp that should absolutely be the first game
you play on your new hardware.

Vibrate pretender
The scale is incredible and the world constantly
rewards you for interacting with it, with haptic
vibrations that perfectly match what you see for
a genuine next-gen VR experience.
We’re also happy to see extensive comfort
settings and a grounded combat system that
never overwhelms, even if the nausea-dodging
gesture controls might make you feel more like
a clown than a badass robot dinosaur hunter.

Stuff says +++++

The perfect title to show off the PSVR2

Tetris Effect: Resident Evil Village Gran Turismo 7 What the Bat?
Connected Waiting for the RE4 remake? The latest entry in Sony’s The follow-up to the (also
Capcom has something to long-running racing sim series brilliant) What The Golf?
We played it to death on the tide you over. The most recent remains one of the best games is another physics-based
first PSVR, but we’ll take any game in the series (with more for showing off the monstrous comedy puzzler, except this
excuse to play this hypnotic than a hint of RE4 about it) power of the PS5, and in VR time it’s in VR and the golf
take on the puzzle classic is playable in its entirety on it’s even more impressive. clubs have been swapped
again. It looks outstanding PSVR2, and it’s brilliant. Ethan Most of the game is playable for baseball bats… which also
in motion, with thousands Winters’ hands become yours in the headset, while a new happen to be your hands.
of particle effects that fill as you uncover the secrets of VR Showroom allows you That might sound tricky but
your vision every time you the titular mutant-inhabited to admire your gleaming car there’s actually a whole lot
clear a line, and the constantly village in an attempt to rescue collection up close. With many you can do with bats for hands,
evolving soundtrack is your kidnapped daughter. The of them being ports of older including smashing, painting,
wonderfully atmospheric. shooting feels great, while full titles, not every PSVR2 launch toothbrushing, ironing, cooking
This version lets you trigger use of the new hardware’s 3D game is a visual feast, but GT7 and – obviously – batting.
the Zone mechanic – which audio and haptics makes for looks amazing – and being With over 100 ridiculous
slows down time and holds a decidedly more terrifying inside the car means you can and consistently imaginative
new pieces at the top – by experience. A spare pair of really feel the tracks as you minigames to work your way
opening and closing your eyes. underpants is advised. attack corners and hills. through, this is a must-play.

32
 UPVOTED
PACK-DOWN PUFFERS

The intrepid insulator The fish-friendly filler The old-school overcoat

Fjallraven Expedition X-Latt Patagonia AlpLight The North Face 1996 Nuptse
Packable doesn’t need to mean unpadded, Fish are highly sensitive to temperature. Seen on red runs and red carpets alike,
and this Fjallraven jacket has just enough They’re also sensitive to ocean waste. So the Nuptse is an icon among puffy
insulation to keep you cosy when there’s while this insulated jacket won’t keep a streetwear. But set aside its Gen Z
a nip in the air. Its shell and lining are made cod cosy, it does at least reduce pollution: street cred and you’re left with a retro
from recycled polyamide, while the filling is its synthetic down filling is made entirely ripstop number that’s water-repellent,
80% recycled polyester – so you get the from NetPlus, a nylon fabric hewn from sweat-wicking and stuffed with
added warmth of an eco-feelgood glow. recycled fishing nets. toasty goosedown.
£195 / fjallraven.com £280 / eu.patagonia.com £300 / thenorthface.co.uk
LIGHTWEIGHT LAYERS

PACKABLE
The adaptable anorak
JACKETS The touring topper
Arc’teryx Acrople Umbrella too big for your Cotopaxi Viento
Arc’teryx makes technical layers fit for the backpack? Chris Rowlands Wandering free is way less fun when you’re
trickiest alpine conditions. But what if you unpacks a crew of cagoules shivering because you didn’t pack a jacket.
want a streamlined smock for springtime in that stuff away when the This zip-up won’t keep biblical cloudbursts
the hills? This one is perfect for changeable at bay, but it will add a useful layer to your
days: its synthetic panels repel wind and
sun comes out… ensemble – without bulk. Its hood and
rain, while still allowing breathability. And hand pockets shelter your extremities,
it weighs just 250g. while bungee hems lock in body heat.
£150 / arcteryx.com £110 / uk.cotopaxi.com
SPORTY SHELLS

The hurrying hoodie The windy winner The cycling saviour

Nike Windrunner Adidas Terrex Agravic Windweave Pro Gorewear Gore-Tex Paclite
This hooded number has a water-repellent Nothing blunts your will to run like an east Ditch the mudguards and stash this
shell that stretches to let you stride freely. wind whipping across the trail, so this featherweight layer in your saddlebag:
Reflective details keep you seen beneath minimalist jacket puts a barrier between windproof yet breathable, it weighs a mere
grey skies, while vents front and back allow you and the breeze. Its nylon construction 238g. Its dropped tail protects your derriere
air to move as you do. Brightening up? It balances breathability with durability, and from spray, while a waterproof stow pocket
packs into its own back panel, complete its storage sack packs away small enough stops your stuff getting soaked if you pedal
with shoulder sling. to stuff in a race vest. through puddles.
£95 / nike.com £150 / adidas.co.uk £200 / gorewear.com

1 Packing tape 2 Multi-pack

Most packable jackets have some kind of Every coat relies on layers. Breathable types
HOW TO repellent coating that causes light rain to run
off. But only fully waterproof options with taped
use an outer to block some of the rain, backed
up by a second membrane that lets sweaty
DECIDE seams can withstand prolonged exposure. vapour leave while keeping water out.

34
 UPVOTED

The wily wicker

Finisterre Rainbird
Raincoats might keep
the downpours out, but
impermeable layers can lead
to torrential sweat. Beat
perspiration and precipitation
with this wearable umbrella,
combining a recycled polyester
shell with a microporous lining
that wicks away moisture
formed by your personal
micro-climate.
£125 / finisterre.com

3 Packing heat 4 Pack it in

The lightest cagoules use technical fabrics to Some jackets stuff into a separate sack, while
stop windchill while reflecting body heat back others stow away in their own pocket or hood.
in. A few have panels for targeted reinforcement, Packed size depends on a coat’s construction,
but the warmest insulate with filling. ranging from teeny pebbles to bulky packages.

35
 BEST HEADPHONES

EAR, THERE &

EVER
ERYWHERE
ERE
The world is far from short of choice when it
comes to headphones of all shapes, sizes and
prices. But how can you separate the magic
from the meh? By reading our 16-page guide
to the best sound-slingers around, that’s how…
[ Words Kieran Alger, Jen Allen, Dan Grabham, Simon Lucas, Libby Plummer ]

AUDIO-TECHNICA ATH-WB2022
ome people might throw first headphones with a fully balanced to 24-bit/96kHz can be handled
S a little party for their 60th
anniversary. Audio-Technica
output system featuring independent
DACs, op-amps and batteries for each
natively, while bigger stuff is
downscaled thanks to a pair of
decided a high-end pair of wireless channel? Check, check, check. state-of-the-art DACs. Scale, drive
headphones with a whole stack of And then there’s the construction. and superior soundstaging can be
technological highlights, plus some These ’phones are crafted from an taken pretty much for granted, as can
extremely shiny and carefully applied intertwined blend of marbled maple, ultra-high detail levels.
wood, would be more appropriate. And walnut and mahogany. It results in In fact, owning a pair of WB2022s
who are we to argue? earcups that look as special as a is an almost altruistic act: not only do
No two ways about it – AT has high-class guitar body, with a lustre you get to listen to some of the finest
pushed the boat out here. Battery that will (according to AT) mellow and wireless headphones around, but
life of 9hrs is nothing special, deepen with age, and with impeccable everyone else gets to admire them
admittedly – but after that it acoustic properties. On the inside, while you’re doing so.
all gets a little more rarefied: 45mm the earpads are Alcantara-covered
full-range high-definition drivers memory foam for a feel that’s almost Price £2600 / go.stuff.tv/WB2022
with a DLC (diamond-like carbon) as indulgent as the looks.
coating? Check. Multipoint Bluetooth Of course, it’s not as if AT has taken Key specs
connectivity with LDAC hi-res its eye off the ball where performance O Bluetooth 5.1 O SBC, AAC, LDAC
compatibility? Check. The world’s is concerned. Digital audio files of up O No ANC O 9hr battery life O 350g

STUFF SAYS It turns out AT knows exactly how to celebrate a big birthday +++++

36
 BEST HEADPHONES

Freight days a week

The WB2022s come in
a carry-case designed
by Zero Halliburton - the
company that made the
cases for moon-rock to
be brought to Earth.

Ticket to slide
The Audio-Technica
Connect app includes
five EQ presets and the
finest volume-change
increments known
to humanity.

I am the walnut
AT has been using wood
in headphone designs
for more than a quarter
of a century – but this
is the first time for
a wireless model.

37
 BEST HEADPHONES

What goes in
The fit is way better
and the looks are a lot
less gawky than before.
Wearing Bose in-ears
has never been easier,
or less embarrassing.

I seal fine
These buds are rated
IPX4 against moisture
of all kinds – so unless
you intend to take them
into the shower, you
can relax.

Sticks in a hole
There’s no wireless
charging here – it all
happens via USB-C. But
a couple of hours’ worth
of power is available
after just 20mins.

38
 BEST HEADPHONES

TRUE WIRELESS pt1

Everyone has a pair of fully cable-free in-ear buds to sell you these days – here
are your top options at various price points for portable music with no dangly bits

NOW

BOSE QUIETCOMFORT EARBUDS II ADD

THESE

iven that Bose is the than the model they replaced. And your favourite songs; and they resolve
G company that invented
noise-cancelling headphones
while they’re not the lightest buds
around, the way Bose has finessed
the midrange so effectively that
every singer sounds like a characterful
in the first place, you’d hope its latest the fit (for all ear sizes) means they individual (well, apart from Ian Brown).
true wireless in-ears would be there stay snug for at least the 6hrs of In the past, Bose earbuds sometimes
or thereabouts when it comes to battery life they hold. In fact, that’s struggled to compete for pure sound
dealing with external sounds. And also true of the extra 18hrs that’s quality – not any more.
sure enough, the QCEIIs do a more stored in the charging case. Add in great call quality, reliable
thorough and complete job than any Sound quality too is a step on touch controls and one of the better
alternative design, at any price – so for Bose: as long as you don’t mind control apps around, and the QCEIIs APPLE
if you really want to banish the sound a hint of the company’s typically make an awful lot of sense. Yes, iPHONE 14
of the outside world, these are the laid-back sonic character, there’s they’re pricey – but they’re worth As well as being
earbuds for you. plenty to enjoy here. The overall sound every penny. a delightful object
What makes these the best true is big, thanks to a 9.3mm full-range in its own right,
wireless earbuds you can currently dynamic driver in each bud, and Price £280 / go.stuff.tv/QCBuds2 the iPhone 14 is
buy, though, is also the stuff that there’s plenty of detail extracted one of Apple’s
Bose hasn’t always been the greatest from digital audio files. They can punch Key specs best-sounding
at. Comfort, for example – they’re hard if needs be, but they’re also deft O Bluetooth 5.3 O SBC, AAC O ANC music players in
smaller, lighter and loads more comfy enough to spotlight the subtlety in O 6hrs + 18hrs case O 2x 6.2g ages. And it takes
the edge off the
STUFF SAYS The best Bose earbuds in forever are the noise-cancelling kings +++++ fact that the Bose
buds only support
SBC and AAC
Bluetooth codecs
by only offering
AAC itself.
£849 / apple.com
ALTERNATIVELY…

AUDIO-TECHNICA CAMPFIRE PANASONIC SENNHEISER

ATH-SQ1TW AUDIO ORBIT RZ-S500W MOMENTUM
£80 / audio-technica.com £249 / £100 / panasonic.com TRUE WIRELESS 3 COMPLY
campfireaudio.com £220 / sennheiser.com SMARTCORE
Sometimes it pays It’s not easy to create FOAM EARBUD
to just stick to the Predictably, Campfire a pair of in-ears that There was never TIPS
fundamentals. So while has done its own thing look, feel and sound anything wrong with Bose provides
there are no whistles with its first pair of more expensive than the way the first two some very decent
and very few bells to true wireless in-ears. they are – which is why Momentum TW models silicone earbud
the ATH-SQ1TWs, they With no ANC and no we’re such big fans of sounded. The problems, tips, in a variety
get the most important control app – stuff the RZ-S500Ws. The such as they were, of sizes, with the
things – fit, comfort, that we thought was earbuds themselves concerned the looks QCEIIs. But there’s
battery life and sound compulsory at this sort are on the bulky side, and, to a lesser extent, no denying these
quality – absolutely of money – the Orbits it’s true; but in every the ANC. So Sennheiser are a worthy
right. You can’t expect stand or fall on the other meaningful has fixed those issues: upgrade: they’re
everything when you sound created by respect, these the TW3s are smaller just as comfy,
shop at the entry level, their 10mm full-range Panasonics are good and deal with external much gripper and
of course… but with drivers. Safe to say enough to put the noise far better, while sweat-resistant.
these, AT gives you they stand, and in frighteners on rivals retaining the excellent £20 /
everything you need. some style. costing twice as much. sound quality. complyfoam.co.uk
Stuff says ++++, Stuff says +++++ Stuff says +++++ Stuff says +++++

39
 BEST HEADPHONES

TRUE WIRELESS pt2

Yep, there are so many ace in-ears we couldn’t fit them all on one spread – so here,
instead of the originally scheduled pull-out Phil Collins poster, is your second helping

NOW
ADD
THESE BOWERS & WILKINS Pi7
P 7 S2
couple of years on from the mode. Unfortunately, the ANC isn’t uncompetitive 16hrs from the large
A first-gen Pi7 in-ears comes
a successor. We didn’t
the best. Rivals work better – and
on a flight we found they weren’t
case (which can fast-charge).
Thankfully, the Pi7 S2s excel in the
experience any dropout issues as blocking louder noises at all, though one area where they need to: audio
some did with the old model, but B&W low-level stuff was fine. The B&W quality. You’ll find the sound of these
has redesigned the antenna system Music app enables you to adjust the earphones absolutely stunning. It’s
anyway to ensure connectivity transparency mode, although not really focused and punchy for heavier
consistency this time around. And EQ settings, which will be a downer tracks but also deft and warm for
it seems to have worked. for some. You can adjust whether the lighter stuff. We can’t speak highly
SONY As before they’re pretty big in the you want playback to stop when you enough of it, and it’s worth the high
WALKMAN ear, but they do have dual drivers in remove a bud, though. premium – but a star is knocked off
NW-A306 each earpiece: a 9.2mm unit alongside One of our bugbears with in-ear for the imperfect noise-cancellation
Driven by Android a balanced-armature driver for the buds generally is touch controls – and and so-so battery life.
and a 3.6in higher frequencies. Still, they’re really here they’re just a pain. They’re so
touchscreen, this light and comfortable, as long as – and easy to activate by mistake if you Price £349 / go.stuff.tv/Pi7S2
new launch proves this is key – you get the fit right. adjust a bud in your ear. Another
the Walkman is Qualcomm’s aptX Adaptive tech downside is that the battery life is Key specs
definitely not dead is at the core, with adaptive ANC so-so by today’s standards – 5hrs O Bluetooth 5.0 O SBC, AAC, aptX
(unlike the iPod). thanks to six mics and transparency maximum from the buds and an O ANC O 5hrs + 16hrs case O 2x 7g
It’s also
compatible with STUFF SAYS They sound simply brilliant, but the ANC isn’t up with the best ++++,
hi-res audio,
Sony’s 360
Reality Audio and
the high-quality
MQA format.
£349 / sony.co.uk

ALTERNATIVELY…

SONY ULTIMATE BANG & OLUFSEN URBANISTA

WF-1000XM4 EARS FITS BEOPLAY EX PHOENIX
TILE STICKER £199 /sony.co.uk £200 / ultimateears.com £349 / bang-olufsen.com £149 / urbanista.com
Keep losing your
headphone case? Sony’s top in-ears are These UE buds employ Available in some bold If you thought the UE
This tiny thing still superb and worth an idea we’re surprised colourways including Fits were novel, check
(27mm across) every penny of their we haven’t seen more lunar red, anthracite these solar-powered
has a range of up 200 quid. Clearly of before: they have tips oxygen (sort of grey ANC wonders – though
to 75m and, yes, the only reason they designed to mould to and light blue) and gold, at the time of writing
it’s a sticker. So haven’t been replaced your own ears. The app these are lovely in-ears. they’re still not widely
you can easily at the summit of our will guide you through Unlike many rivals, available. The chunky
whack it onto your Top Ten rankings is the process, grandly they’re sweatproof case uses patented
charging case and that they’re still selling called Lightform: LEDs as well as splashproof, Powerfoyle tech that’s
track it using your like wellies from a in the buds harden the so you can use them under development
phone. And if you Ford Transit at a wet gel in the tips within for exercise. They can by Swedish company
completely lose Glastonbury. We’re about a minute to pair with more than one Exeger – it’s always
your buds, you can expecting a new model create a personalised device at a time as well charging, whether
view their last this year, though, which fit. They don’t have (Multipoint), which is you’re in the office
location on a map. should mean you can ANC, but that’s not something the B&Ws or walking down the
£25 / uk.tile.com pick these up cheaper. really an issue. above can’t do. street. Clever.
Stuff says +++++ Stuff says +++++ Stuff says ++++, Stuff says ++++,

40
 BEST HEADPHONES

I’ll fly instead

A welcome touch is the
inclusion of a USB-C to
3.5mm cable, so you
can plug the case into a
plane’s entertainment
output socket.

Don’t let me drown

As with many rivals, the
earbuds themselves are
water/dust-resistant
but the case is not, so
don’t put them back in
while they’re damp.

Love me blue
They’re available in
black, white and a
fetching midnight blue
that looks dead smart
with its gold-lidded
matching case.

41
 BEST HEADPHONES

Day skipper
The right earcup has
touch controls that let
you change track, adjust
the volume and pause
your tunes with a series
of taps and swipes.

Thumb together
There are also buttons
for power, pairing,
summoning a voice
assistant and adjusting
the ANC. They’re easily
pressed by mistake.

Please ease me
To adjust the earcups
so they fit properly you
just slide them up and
down the headband. It
can be tricky to do this
while wearing them.

42
 BEST HEADPHONES

NOISE-CANCELLING
Here’s our pick of the outside-world-eliminating bunch to help you create
an impenetrable sonic forcefield for just you and your One Direction playlists

NOW

BOSE NCH 700 ADD

THESE

ou can’t really talk about microphones are dedicated to listening nodding along as effortlessly as the
Y noise-cancelling headphones
without bringing up Bose.
to your voice, while the others look
for noises to banish, so if you choose
aforementioned alternatives.
They certainly look the part, mind.
It’d be like interviewing Usain Bolt carefully you should be able to join your And while they don’t fold up like Bose’s
and not mentioning running. Dr Amar afternoon catch-up meeting from the older QC cans did, the earcups swivel
Bose came up with the idea in 1978, pub and your boss will be none the when you want to stow them in the
when he was on a transatlantic flight wiser (just make sure you keep your case. Chances are they’ll spend a lot
and couldn’t hear the music in his camera turned off). It makes using of time on your head, though, with
headphones over the drone of the Siri, Google Assistant or Alexa more the leatherette pads and cushioned
plane’s engines, and his company’s reliable too. headband making them comfortable FIIO M11S
active noise-cancelling tech is still the Bose is still top of the tree when it to wear for long periods, while the This portable
gold standard. comes to noise-cancelling, then; but battery is good for about 20hrs. Not hi-res music
These over-ears have eight onboard the 700s can’t quite match up to the the best, but more than adequate. player supports
microphones and 11 levels of hiss-free likes of Sony and Bowers & Wilkins every file format
ANC, so you can find the perfect when it comes to sound quality. Price £279 / go.stuff.tv/NCH700 and codec you can
balance between blocking out the They’re still an excellent listen, with think of, including
world and making sure a double-decker plenty of punch, solid bass and each Key specs LDAC, aptX HD
bus doesn’t sneak up on you when instrument given ample room to O Bluetooth 5.0 O SBC, AAC O ANC and LHDC
you’re lost in the music. Two of those breathe, but they don’t get you O 20hr battery life O 250g Bluetooth. It packs
a Snapdragon 660
STUFF SAYS Other over-ears sound better but none cancel noise quite this well +++++ processor, you get
14hrs of listening
time, and you
can install Tidal,
Qobuz and Apple
Music apps.
£479 / fiio.com
ALTERNATIVELY…

SONY OPPO ENCO X2 BANG & OLUFSEN APPLE AIRPODS

WH-1000XM5 £169 / oppo.com BEOPLAY H95 PRO 2 (2ND GEN)
£335 / sony.co.uk £779 / bang-olufsen.com £249 / apple.com ASTELL&KERN
These Dynaudio-tuned HC3
The latest model buds might be a little These range-topping Apple’s best earbuds This tiny USB DAC
in Sony’s excellent too AirPods-esque for cans from the Danish yet, the AirPods have turns any device
flagship 1000X series some but there’s plenty brand are every bit as finally caught up with into a hi-res player.
sports a totally new to like about them, good you’d expect from the field thanks to Successor to the
look, which comes including dual drivers, the eye-watering price. superb noise-cancelling absurdly-named
in black or silver. The hi-res audio support and Sound performance is and truly impressive PEE51, it’s small
revamped design might a ‘Smart’ ANC setting sensational and you audio. Cancelling up enough to fit in
not be quite as chic as that automatically can choose from five to twice as much noise your pocket; the
previous models, but dials it up depending levels of ANC by as the previous Pros, Android app gives
the sound kicks thing on how much racket spinning the earcup these buds also bring precise volume
up a notch. Audio is going on around wheel. When the noise better bass and clarity. control, and you
is punchy and clear, you. Bone-conduction around you changes, A new extra-small tip can hook up to iOS
while on-board sensors help to the cans will adapt to and a fit test ensure devices with the
tech automatically enhance your voice match; and the battery you can get the perfect included adapter.
optimises the ANC when you take a call gives you up to 38hrs seal to avoid annoying £199 /
based on conditions. somewhere noisy. of noise-cancelling. fellow commuters. astellnkern.co.uk
Stuff says +++++ Stuff says ++++, Stuff says +++++ Stuff says +++++

43
 BEST HEADPHONES

OVER-EARS
Most of these head-hugging cans also offer active noise-cancellation, but now
we’ve tuned our brains to sniff out pure sound quality rather than clever tech

NOW
ADD
THESE BOWERS & WILKINS Px8
P
ou might think technology of the leather elements of the earcups diamond-cut doo-dahs: they’re
Y would limit the amount of
performance you could eke
and headband. The cast aluminium
arm-structure and headband
a punchy, detailed and expansive
listen in every circumstance, as
out of a pair of wireless headphones. components feel almost as good happy to kick hard with your favourite
You might think that value could only as they look. EDM as they are to soothe you
be added by using more luxurious On the inside too, the Px8s are with sensitive singer-songwriter
materials or a better standard of a step on from their more affordable material. Soundstaging is impeccable,
finish, or by incorporating an elaborate siblings. The new full-range dynamic dynamism is considerable, and the
control app. But B&W disagrees – and driver is a carbon-cone design derived tonality from the deep, textured
QED with the Px8 ’phones it’s shown what from the tweeter B&W developed for bass to the bright, shining top end
PERFORMANCE can be done within the confines of its pricey 700 Series loudspeakers, is completely convincing.
3.5MM wireless streaming tech. for instance. And where they really So really, you have to ask yourself:
EXTENSION At a glance, these cans aren’t that required no improvement – such as who needs touch controls anyway?
CABLE (1.5M) different from the recently launched their ANC system – the company has
If you’re using Px7 S2 model. But look a little closer simply left well alone. Price £599 / go.stuff.tv/Px8
your cans in wired and you’ll notice the diamond-cut As far as performance goes, they’d
mode with a earcup edges, the elegantly reflective justify their price premium over the Key specs
mobile, that’s one company logo running down each one, Px7 S2s even without the aromatic O Bluetooth 5.2 O SBC, AAC, aptX
thing. But if you’re and the indulgent texture (and smell) leather, the cast aluminium and the O ANC O 30hr battery life O 320g
using them with
a hi-fi, you’ll often STUFF SAYS Bowers & Wilkins turns ‘great’ into ‘greater’ in impressive style +++++
find the cable just
isn’t long enough.
QED’s extensions
are some of the
best you can get.
£36 / qed.co.uk

ALTERNATIVELY…

GRADO GW100X LINDY BNX-60XT SENNHEISER JBL TOUR ONE M2

£249 / gradolabs.com £95 / lindy.co.uk MOMENTUM 4 £300 / jbl.com
TIDAL £300 / sennheiser.com
HI-FI PLUS In typical Grado fashion, Lindy never makes you With a fantastic
Tidal’s Hi-Fi Plus these headphones feel like a cheapskate Sennheiser binning off listening experience,
tier remains the ignore what might be for shopping at the the design vocabulary comfortable fit and
source of the considered the norms entry level. The 60XTs that set the previous competitive battery
biggest, most of specification and just look and feel good, three generations of life, these JBLs are
high-res and focus on serving up the have ANC, work with Momentum wireless a worthy half-price
best-sounding best possible sound the superior aptX over-ears apart is a alternative to the
streams around. quality. So here are Bluetooth codec, have disappointment, sure. B&Ws. Admittedly
Any cork-sniffer some open-backed proper battery life… and, But the fact that it’s their noise-cancelling
will tell you it wireless cans that best of all, they sound made the Momentum isn’t the best around,
wipes the floor don’t cancel noise, like more expensive 4s usefully cheaper and there’s some
with the sound of don’t have a control headphones too. Here than the model they tweaking to be done
Spotify’s free tier. app, don’t come in a is definitive proof that replace, improved the through the app to
Once you’ve heard travel case… but sound you don’t have to break battery life and kept the get interruption-free
it, you’ll never more complete than the bank to get genuine same robust, detailed playback, but they’re
go back anything else this kind satisfaction from your sound quality is quite otherwise a very solid
£20/m / tidal.com of money can buy. over-ears. the opposite. all-rounder.
Stuff says +++++ Stuff says +++++ Stuff says +++++ Stuff says ++++,

44
 BEST HEADPHONES

Lovely seater Wrist and shout

The cans are reasonably There are no touch
light, the clamping force controls – but between
is nicely judged… and the physical buttons,
this, along with the lush the voice control and
materials, makes them the phone app, you
no effort at all to wear. shouldn’t miss them.

All you need is plug

30hrs of battery life
ain’t bad – and 7hrs
of playback from just
a 15min burst of
charging isn’t too
shabby either.

45
 BEST HEADPHONES

Parry that weight Clear prudence

The memory-foam The THX Spatial Audio
cushions are designed app for PC offers deep
for coolness and customisation, including
comfort, reducing that a Competitive mode to
feeling of being clamped dial back explosions so
between the earcups. you can hear footsteps.

Baby, you’re a rich span

With earcups designed
for isolation and punchy
50mm drivers, you’ll
lose yourself in your
game. Every tiny audio
detail pops out.

46
 BEST HEADPHONES

GAMING
Tuned for ultimate immersion in other worlds, and with mics for warning your
friends they’re about to get eaten, these are the finest headsets for players

NOW

RAZER BLACKSHARK V2 ADD

THESE

ffering all you could need footstep and alarmingly horrific sound on PC, while pre-tuned profiles for
O from a pair of gaming cans,
and not anywhere near
in the distance. Call of Duty: Modern
Warfare II also benefits from the
popular games like Apex Legends
save you some hassle.
as expensive as you’d think, these wide soundstage, as it means you None of this would matter if they
Razers are the perfect choice for can hear your enemies as they were a pain to wear, but the earcups
most people. Thanks to being wired, approach, potentially giving you are really comfortable and we found
they’ll work with all your consoles the edge in battle. them ideally suited for long sessions,
and/or PCs. There is a wireless version, It all serves to create a genuinely easily covering the ears and offering
but we’d stick with what’s here for the immersive experience, with THX good sound isolation. The headband
sake of convenience. Spatial Audio helping you feel part feels good too, avoiding ‘clamping’ SCHIIT HEL 2E
Razer uses its TriForce Titanium of your in-game surroundings rather issues. These are ideal all-rounders Not everyone
50mm drivers to fantastic effect, than a detached spectator. for anyone keen to get more from needs one, but
splitting the audio into three distinct When playing online with friends, their gaming time. this DAC means
parts – lows, middles and highs. This the HyperClear cardioid mic offers you can improve
original approach means you get better voice pickup than those of Price £100 / go.stuff.tv/BlackShark2 your headphone
great audio at all frequencies, with other headsets – so you’ll always audio and mic
clarity the real priority. sound superbly clear. An included Key specs quality via a single
Playing the Dead Space remake is USB soundcard means you can adjust O Wired O PC, Mac, Xbox, PlayStation, neat box. Just
a chilling affair here as you hear every your voice output if you’re playing Switch O THX Spatial Audio O 262g hook up all your
audio devices and
STUFF SAYS With clear and immersive sound, this is your new favourite headset +++++ the Schiit DAC
does the rest, so
you always get
crisp sound. And
yes, that is how
it’s pronounced.
£255 / schiit.co.uk
ALTERNATIVELY…

CORSAIR HS65 ASTRO A50 STEELSERIES LOGITECH PRO X

£80 / corsair.com £320 / astrogaming.com ARCTIS 7P+ £120 / logitechg.com
£175 / steelseries.com BLUE YETI
With their 50mm Available for PC, Xbox With a solid metal frame Your headset’s
neodymium drivers or PlayStation (pick the Strong battery life of and well-cushioned mic is useful, but
offering crisp stereo right variant for you), over 30hrs means this earcups, these 7.1 a dedicated one
audio, these Corsair the Astro A50 offers is an ideal headset for surround sound is best for
cans can also pump unsurpassed audio those who hate cables. headphones provide broadcasting
out 7.1 surround sound balance for a gaming They’re comfy too, clear and precise while you stream
for PC users. There headset. Thanks to which lends itself to audio out of the box. your gaming time
are a bunch of presets, Dolby Atmos, watching extended sessions. Different profiles give (or if you plan on
further improving cutscenes unfold is like Supporting 3D audio you a more personal recording videos
performance based taking in a movie, with for PS5 provides unique experience based on or podcasts). This
on what you’re up to: that same level of detail immersion, with the the game you’re playing, one offers four
the Clear Chat option as you play. A reliable 40mm drivers giving making this a top option different pickup
makes calls easier, wireless signal keeps you outstanding audio for PC users who prefer patterns, with
while FPS Competition you wire-free, while for the price. The to get more hands-on. some handy extra
is ideal for Fortnite. voice comms are strong retractable mic won’t Even the voice comms controls and
A comfy build makes courtesy of the solid suit everyone, but this have ample options for settings to tweak.
these all the sweeter. microphone. is a robust piece of kit. improving quality. £120 / bluemic.com
Stuff says ++++, Stuff says ++++, Stuff says ++++, Stuff says ++++,

47
 BEST HEADPHONES

FITNESS BUDS
From beast-mode motivational playlists to pain-distracting podcasts, science
shows that soundtracking exercise boosts gains. Let’s pump up your potential…

NOW
ADD
THESE JLAB JBUDS AIR SPORT (3RD GEN)
Lab specialises in budget for an hour’s juice is nowt special when always ready to refuel, while Bluetooth
J buds that punch above their
price tag – and on paper the
some buds can do that in 5mins.
And that’s not the only trade-off.
Multipoint lets you connect two
devices simultaneously for snappier
third-gen JBuds Air Sport seriously The sound quality is acceptable rather switches from phone to laptop. And
flex that value muscle. With an than solid: don’t expect big oomph in there are separate MEMS mic chips
unshakeable earhook fit, custom the bass to kick your butt up a gear in each earbud, so you can use the
EQ, an ambient awareness mode when the going gets tough. Top buds independently and still make
plus rapid charging and Tile finder volume drowns out the worst gym and take calls.
tools, they offer ace performance music but it’s all a bit thin. Even after TLDR: These compromise on sound
APPLE for well under £100. you’ve tweaked the EQ, these fall but you’ll be hard-pressed to find a
WATCH ULTRA A whopping 44hr battery life does far short of Beats, AirPods and Jabras. set of fitness earphones that offer
With the best most of the heavy lifting, smashing And the ambient awareness feature so much for so little. On value alone,
screen in the pricier rivals on endurance with 9hrs isn’t particularly effective. they’re top-class.
business, great of workout time in the buds and 35 The buds and (quite large) case
battery life and more in the case. That’s potentially have a distinctly cheap plastic feel, Price £70 / go.stuff.tv/AirSport
beefed-up more than a month’s training off a but that does keep them light and
durability, the single charge – and in our tests they comfortable in the ears. Key specs
Ultra is Apple’s lived up to it. Rapid charging matched Neat extras include an integrated O Bluetooth 5.0 O AAC O 9hrs +
best fitness watch the stated specs too, although 15mins charging cable for the case so you’re 35hrs case O IP66 O 2x 8.7g
to date. It’s also
your phone-free STUFF SAYS Lock-tight fit, big battery life and passable sound on a nice budget +++++
portal to the best
range of music and
audio apps going,
including Spotify
and Deezer.
£849 / apple.com

ALTERNATIVELY…

SHOKZ OPENRUN BEATS FIT PRO JABRA ELITE HONOR

PRO MINI £220 / beatsbydre.com 7 ACTIVE EARBUDS 3 PRO
NAKED £130 / uk.shokz.com £170 / jabra.co.uk £140 / hihonor.com
RUNNING BAND The Fit Pros pack
The perfect way Want to stay in tune an impressive 30hr These fine all-rounders A cheaper alternative to
to increase your with the world while earbuds-plus-case kick out powerful and Apple’s AirPods, these
workout stash you work out? These battery life (with ANC customisable sound light and comfy Honor
space, this snug bone-conductors sit off) and adaptive EQ, to boost any workout. buds straddle the divide
band offers on your cheekbones plus beefy sound – all They also have big between Zoom calls,
bounce-free and vibrate to generate powered by the same battery life and plenty commute soundtracks
storage for all your sound. The Mini model’s H1 chip used in Apple’s of techy bits like ANC, and workout music.
essentials. Four shorter headband is flagship AirPods an awareness mode, They offer seamless
compartments a better fit for smaller Pro. Rigid wingtips, a bud locator and a new switching, solid sound,
happily swallow heads and the light meanwhile, ensure slimmer case. At just adaptive ANC and an
your headphone neckband/earhook a firm fit. The case isn’t 5.5g each the buds are impressive rapid charge
charging case, design means they pocket-friendly and light and compact, but that juices to 65% in
phone, water, keys won’t fall out. The 8hr there’s no custom EQ, the no-wingtip design 10mins. The fit isn’t
and some snacks. battery life is decent; but these are among means you might just tight enough to handle
£50 / nakedsports just don’t expect much the best wireless struggle to keep them burpees but runs, rides
innovations.com motivational bass. workout buds going. in during big sessions. and lifting are all sorted.
Stuff says +++,, Stuff says +++++ Stuff says ++++, Stuff says ++++,

48
 BEST HEADPHONES

Let it beep
JLab has linked up with
Tile to let you monitor
your Air Sport buds’
whereabouts. You can Hello, good tie
also trigger the buds to Android smartphone
play an audio alarm. owners can use the
snappy Bluetooth
hook-up tool Google
Fast Pair for quick and
easy connection.

No wear, man
JLab includes a 2yr
warranty in the asking
price – which is pretty
freakin’ chunky for a
pair of hard-working
gym buds.

49
 BEST HEADPHONES

Penny grain
Cocobolo is a Central
American wood known
for its irregular patterns,
so no two pairs of these
headphones will look
quite alike.

I’m only seeping

Those open-backed
earcups help deliver one
of the best soundstages
you’ve ever heard – but
they do fire that sound
outwards as well as in.

The long and

winding sewed
The basic design of
Grado cans has changed
so little in 60-odd years
that this white stitching
is considered radical.

50
 BEST HEADPHONES

LUXURY LISTENING
Give your butler the afternoon off, kick off your brogues, pour yourself a brandy and
sink gently into your favourite leather chair: it’s time for the really, really good stuff

NOW

GRADO GS3000X STATEMENT ADD

THESE

uxury, when it comes to earpads and minimally padded leather music, handing it right over without
L headphones, lies in the eye
and beneath the fingertips
headband – with only rudimentary
adjustment – are less friendly.
seeming to stick their oar in. Detail
levels are almost indecently high, the
of the beholder, as well as in the ear. The chunky cable is very nearly 2m soundstage they create is huge and
These Grados are our favourites in long, which – along with the sonically beautifully defined, and their tonality
the ‘very expensive indeed’ category, leaky open-back configuration – lets from the bottom of the frequency
and for good reason – even if the you know these cans are designed range to the top is utterly convincing.
luxury aspect is, to be fair, a little for at-home (ideally solitary) listening. Add superb dynamics and rhythmic
bit patchy. They’re comfortable for long sessions, expression, and they just don’t put an
They’re big open-backed ’phones for sure, but their 515g weight means audio foot wrong. IFI IDSD DIABLO
that feature a whole lot of cocobolo they’re not very portable. No, the GS3000X headphones It goes without
wood for their driver housings, as part Most importantly of all, the 52mm aren’t in any way flash. But as far saying that these
of a hybrid metal acoustic chamber. (very) full-range dynamic drivers do as sonic luxury is concerned, they’re Grados thrive
The company puts forward a lot of the audio business – when it comes about as indulgent as it gets. on receiving the
reasons why this particular wood is to sound quality, these Grados are best-quality audio
so desirable in acoustic terms – but close to untouchable. Price £2195 / go.stuff.tv/3000X in order to serve
the fact that it looks and feels so They’re a natural, neutral listen and up the best
dramatic and, yes, luxurious doesn’t are egoless in the sense that they’ll Key specs results… which is
do any harm. Elsewhere, the foam get out of the way of your favourite O Wired O 515g where the iFi iDSD
Diablo comes in.
STUFF SAYS Get inside these and your ears will be thanking you all week +++++ It’s a headphone
amp and DAC
that’s almost
ridiculously
accomplished.
£799 /
ifi-audio.com
ALTERNATIVELY…

AUDEZE EUCLID FOCAL BATHYS MEZE ELITE T+A

£1249 / audeze.com £699 / focal.com £3749 / mezeaudio.com SOLITAIRE P-SE
£2999 / ta-hifi.de WAX AND
In-ear headphones Pah, only three figures? Yes, they’re quite big STAMP
need to be small. Planar These are relatively and yes, they look quite If your head is on the We’re going to
magnetic headphones affordable for luxury ostentatious and yes, smaller side, these will presume that
(which is Audeze’s headphones, but Focal’s they cost a fortune. But be a non-starter – they people as serious
technology of choice) first wireless over-ears if you want absolutely are a bit of a unit. But about sound
tend to be quite big. with ANC certainly look, the best-sounding pair if they fit you, there’s quality as Grado
And yet somehow the feel and sound more of headphones your every chance you’ll GS3000X owners
California specialist has than indulgent enough. money can buy, you never want to take will also enjoy
forced an 18mm planar The Bathys are ideal for need to check out them off again. This the sonic merits
magnetic driver into letting the world know Romania’s Meze Audio planar-magnetostatic of vinyl. So a sub
an aluminium housing just what a discerning and its staggeringly design is hand-made to Wax And Stamp
that’s small enough to individual you are, while capable, extraordinarily in Germany… and it’s makes perfect
fit comfortably in your you enjoy full-scale, accomplished Elite capable of such sonic sense – it’s a
ear. Once it’s there, all lively and faithful sound over-ear model. If precision and fidelity source of endless
the benefits of the tech quality without the there’s a point where that it might just ruin vinyl junkiedom.
become obvious the world’s noise intruding engineering becomes ‘ordinary’ headphones from £27/m /
moment you press play. on your pleasure. art, this is it. for you. waxandstamp.com
Stuff says +++++ Stuff says +++++ Stuff says +++++ Stuff says +++++

51
 DIGITAL EDITION

Available from shop.kelsey.co.uk/stuff

plus Readly, Pocketmags & Apple News+
 APPS

Mini meme

SCREEN
OLego Builder
Disaster: your Lego pride and
joy cannot fly, and now lies AGE OBrick Search
Lego’s app can only catalogue
sets released from 2006

BRICKS
in pieces on the floor. Double onwards. Brick Search (styled
disaster: you recycled the as BrickSearch on iOS) can head
manuals in a fit of tidying. back further. There are gaps
Luckily, Lego Builder lets in its data, but we found Town
you search for sets back sets from the 1970s and 1980s.
to 2006 and download digital These six apps will help you build And after briefly basking in
instructions. A handful of sets a bridge between the world of that nostalgic glow, we used
take things further, with a 3D Brick Search to build a classic
building experience – and Build
mobile technology and the mountain Lego wishlist. (Related: Please
Together, which divides projects of plastic parts in your spare room could someone immediately
between several builders. delete eBay off all our devices?)
£free / Android, iOS £free / Android, iOS

OBrickit OBricks Camera OMinecraft OLego Star

Got loads of random bricks but If your Lego obsession has Yes, we know Minecraft isn’t Wars: TCS
no ideas? Brickit uses fancy reached the point where you Lego – although you can get Star Wars helped rescue Lego
tech to scan pieces and suggest want the entire world to look Lego Minecraft sets, which from its turn-of-the-century
builds to try. Don’t expect like plastic blocks, you’re in luck. is meta to the point it makes death spiral. Not that you’ll have
too much and it’s fun: brick Point this camera at a scene (or our brains ache. Anyway, all rose-tinted views about clunky
recognition is solid, and models your own face) and it’ll reimagine the free-building Lego apps we kits from 1999 if you step on a
range from cute kiddy fare to what it sees in Lego-esque tried were rubbish, but the game roaming Lego Stormtrooper in
intricate vehicles and animals. form. You can swipe to adjust in creative mode gives you a bare feet. But rather than take
The £40/yr sub for better brick size and hold the shutter bottomless box of colourful out your rage on your kits, get
brick recognition (1600 vs the to shoot a video. Don’t bother pieces to craft into anything smashy in this app, which takes
most popular hundred) feels with the instructions IAP, unless you can dream up. Unless said you through dozens of famous
ambitious, though. After all, you you want to build Lego art from dreams include curved edges. movie scenes in blocky form.
could buy more Lego with that. a mountain of 1x1 tiles. £6.49 / Android £6.49 / Android
£free (IAP) / Android, iOS £free (IAP) / iOS £6.99 / iOS £free (IAP) / iOS

53
 TESTED SAMSUNG GALAXY BOOK3 PRO 360

I want your flex

With a bundled stylus and the highest-res
OLED screen Samsung has ever fitted to
a laptop, is this the perfect convertible?

from £1549/ go.stuff.tv/3Pro360

The Galaxy Book3 Pro 360 is
the middle child of Samsung’s
refreshed laptop lineup, lacking
the performance grunt of the
Book3 Ultra and the sheer
portability of the Book3 Pro
14in… but this hybrid model is
the most flexible. A fully rotating Too punky
screen lets its 16in screen double The speakers are
as a tablet, for a work/play fine for catching up on
balance that sure beats balancing your YouTube subs, but
a notebook on your knees to as usual with laptops
watch telly. the bass is weak. And
This premium 2-in-1 has been the webcam is
overhauled for its third generation, OK at best.
with fresh styling, a stronger
hinge and uprated internals. Our
review model has the 13th-gen
Intel Core i7 chip, paired to 16GB
of RAM and a 512GB SSD. Opting
for the more mainstream Core i5
[ Words Tom Morgan-Freelander ]

limits you to 8GB RAM and 256GB

storage, although this nudges the
price down a fair bit.
It sounds like a winning combo
for anyone after a convertible
that’ll work just as well outside
of business hours as within them.
So does it deliver in reality?

A stiffer end corner Friezes to a child Flairless whisper

The Book3 Pro 360 is milled from The 2880x1800 display (2) is nice This is an ultraportable machine,
aluminium, with sharp lines and and sharp, with excellent colours so it’s no graphical powerhouse
minimal branding, and aside from and a productivity-minded 16:10 or 4K-rendering monster, but
how the hinges slightly eat into aspect ratio. Brightness is more it stays fairly quiet when tasked
the lid (1) there’s little evidence ordinary but its default 120Hz with something more demanding
that this is a 2-in-1 device. It refresh rate means smooth than standard desktop duties.
stays fixed at whatever angle scrolling, even if it does have And multitasking between text
you open it to, as well as folding an impact on battery life. Set documents, web browsers and
fully flat for tablet use. it to 60Hz if you need longevity. email clients is no trouble.

Feels nice Beige This Overall

and solidly actually screen is performance
built looks great lovely is snappy
GOOD Battery
MEH life is only
middling
EVIL Er… where
do you put
the S Pen?

54
 TESTED SAMSUNG GALAXY BOOK3 PRO 360

Tech specs
Screen 16in 2880x1800 120Hz AMOLED Processor
Intel 13th-Gen Core i5/i7 RAM 8/16GB OS Windows 11
Storage 256/512GB/1TB SSD Connectivity 2x USB-C,
USB, HDMI, microSD, 3.5mm, Wi-Fi, Bluetooth Battery
life Up to 18hrs Dimensions 355x252x12.8mm, 1.7kg

Some body to lug

Let’s take a closer look at the ergonomic practicalities
of Samsung’s latest ultra-flippable machine…

Q Wham Q Gram
Samsung has found The Pro 360 is light for a
room for both a full-size 16-incher, but the grams
QWERTY and a numerical do add up when lugging it
keypad above an around in tablet form. The
impossible-to-miss glass skinny dimensions help,
trackpad. Our single clicks, though: it’s thicker than
multi-finger taps and the average iPad, but
swipe gestures were all you’re hardly gripping
picked up accurately. a phone book either.

3 Q Damn Q Glam
Don’t let the ’sung go down on me Fastplug It comes with an S Pen In tent or presentation
With real-world use, the Galaxy Connectivity is decent enough stylus to use with the mode it’s ideal for bingeing
Book3 Pro 360 should last for a thin and light machine: you supremely responsive boxsets, with excellent
between 8 and 9hrs away from get twin Thunderbolt 4 USB-C touchscreen, but there’s viewing angles and rich,
the mains. That’s enough to ports and an HDMI output on one nowhere to store it. It vivid colours. HDR video
get through a work day without side, plus a single USB, a 3.5mm will stick to the lid with looks particularly good,
having to bring the power audio port and a microSD slot on magnets, but not with with exceptional contrast,
adaptor along, but still a step the other (3). Camera buffs might limpet-like strength, so near-flawless black levels
behind Apple’s outstanding bemoan the lack of a full-size SD be careful out there. and superb balance.
MacBook Air (M2). card reader, though.

If you’re hunting for a high-end hybrid laptop with STUFF SAYS ++++,
plenty of power and a stunning screen, the Galaxy A premium portable
Book3 Pro 360 should be near the top of your list.
Samsung has nailed the styling and the keyboard;
2-in-1 with a gorgeous
and while it’s not cheap and battery life could be screen and plenty of
better, convertible fans might still consider its flexible form power – if only it had
factor worth making some sacrifices for. @TomMorgan3 a bit more stamina

55
 T E S T E D M E TA Q U E S T P R O

Quest of both worlds

Meta’s latest headset is all about mixed reality,
We can stop
blending the actual and the virtual… but the Pro 1-2hrs between
price means it’s a work tool, not an entertainer charges isn’t great,
with cheaper headsets
£1000 / go.stuff.tv/MQPro managing more, but
you’ll be wanting a VR
QMeta’s pitching the Quest Pro as
break before then
the ultimate workplace productivity
anyway.
tool, but there’s more to it than a
focus on augmented reality. The
headset has been overhauled with
1920x1800-per-eye optics – a 37%
resolution boost over the Quest 2.

QNext to the old headset’s

monochrome passthrough mode,
the Pro’s full-colour system is a big
step forward. The exterior cameras
also deliver more accurate motion
tracking, while five IR sensors track
your eyes to give facial expressions
for your Metaverse avatar.

QMoving the battery to the rear

means it isn’t so front-heavy, and
pancake lenses help keep the size
down, but this is still a weighty
headset. A cushion distributes
that weight over your forehead,
with an adjustment wheel for the
headband, but you’re still not going
to want to wear this for hours.

QYou’ve got access to the Oculus

Quest store for the likes of Beat
Saber, but most apps cater to
workers: architects can build with
Arkio, DJs can practise on official
Pioneer kit in Tribe XR, and Painting
VR is a novel way to doodle. None
of it feels game-changing, though.

QAvatar customisation options

are pretty basic. You can pick
generic body shapes, eyes, noses
and facial hair, but there’s little room
for personality. New outfits cost
money and reek of ‘corporate fun’.

Tech specs
Resolution 2x 1920x1800 LCD, Q Midnight spy Q Partly in the USA
90Hz Lenses 106° CPU Snapdragon Three cameras in each controller The Quest Pro’s open peripheral
XR2+ Storage 256GB Tracking bring much-improved tracking vision makes coming in and out
5x cameras, IR eye-tracking over the Quest 2 (which was of VR a less jarring experience,
Controllers 2x Touch Pro already pretty accurate). They but the half-and-half approach
Connectivity USB-C, Wi-Fi 6E, also ditch the tracking rings can flip your stomach a bit. The
Bluetooth 5.2 Battery 4500mAh and come with rechargeable bundled partial light-blockers
(est) Weight 722g batteries as standard. alleviate the issue a little.

STUFF SAYS Powerful hardware limited by its business focus and high price +++,,

Too niche to take Despite phones, earbuds and other tech doing their best to dilute the word ‘Pro’ in
a wrecking ball to recent years, it’s one that feels appropriate for Meta’s new headset. But while the
the VR market… Quest Pro is more a collaborative work device than a gaming gadget, it’s early days
at least for now for apps that take advantage of the powerful hardware’s mixed reality abilities. Right
Jack Needham now, VR fans are better served by the simpler, cheaper Quest 2.

56
 TESTED DJI MINI 3

Don’t go
breaking my part
There’s a clip-on cover
for the camera and
Tiny glancer
If you want to learn to fly on a budget, DJI’s
gimbal, so you can sling
the drone in a bag latest pocketable drone is a wallet-friendly
without damaging
them.
rocket cam with great airborne stamina
£519 / go.stuff.tv/Mini3

QDJI’s Mini 3 Pro was the first

sub-250g drone where camera
performance didn’t feel like a huge
compromise. It also flies like a
dream and has a bundle of safety
features. But what if it’s just a little
too rich for your blood? Enter the
Mini 3, which strips back a number
of features but costs a lot less.

QFolded up, you’ll fit the Mini 3

into a coat pocket, and being
under 250g means you can fly
it in places where heavier drones
are banned. But it’s still sturdily
built, as is the twin-stick remote
that connects to your phone. The
premium RC controller has its own
touchscreen, but adds £150.

QThe astonishing 38-minute

flight time is actually longer than
that of the Mini 3 Pro. It’s a nippy
and responsive flier too: top speed
in Sport mode is a brisk 35mph
in calm conditions, and it still flies
steadily when the breeze picks up
thanks to down-facing sensors
and GPS. There are no obstacle
avoidance sensors, though. Be
careful out there.

QIt doesn’t have the slow-mo

video or advanced colour profiles
of the Mini 3 Pro, and is limited to
12MP stills and 30fps 4K video,
but it delivers good results during
daylight hours and pretty decent
ones in darker conditions. The
low resolution means there’s not
much room to crop without the
lack of detail becoming obvious,
but overall quality is more than
acceptable for a budget drone.

Q I’m still landing Q Step into crispness Tech specs

As with all DJI drones, if the Mini 3 No collision sensors means
loses touch with the control unit no ActiveTrack mode, which Camera 12MP 1/1.3in CMOS
(or if you just want it to fly back means you can’t set this drone Video 4K @ 30fps, 2.7K @ 60fps,
on its own) a return-to-home to autonomously film you while 1080p @ 60fps Flight time
function steers it back to its you do gnarly stuff. It’s a big 38mins Storage microSD
take-off location and lands it. reason to consider stepping Connectivity USB-C Dimensions
You don’t have to lift a finger. up to the Mini 3 Pro. 148x90x62mm (folded), 248g

STUFF SAYS A superb entry-level offering with incredible battery life +++++

This trusty little The Mini 3 is a delightfully small and portable fly-anywhere quadcopter with great
drone is easy battery life, simple operation and solid imaging performance. There are downsides
enough to handle compared to its Pro cousin, but the upside – a near-£200 saving – is a major one. And
in the wind once you’ve mastered the basics and are hankering for something a bit more powerful,
Sam Kieldsen you can always upgrade to another of DJI’s excellent drones.

57
 BETA YOURSELF

MASTODON
As Twitter continues reshaping itself into the world’s biggest
social media bin fire, Craig Grannell thinks there’s a better
way to microblog – and explains how you can get started

THE BASICS QFind friends

The service has three main
feeds: federated (everything);
QDon’t think it’s Twitter local (posts from your server);
Mastodon’s somewhat bumpy and home (posts from people
onboarding makes people you follow). Use Mastodon’s
think it’s tricky. And in use, Explore feed (search) to find
many assume it’s identical specific people already on
to Twitter. Neither point is the site. You can find the
true. The service is simpler Mastodon handles of your
than it first appears, yet it has Twitter follows by searching
nuances that set it apart from on that site for ‘Mastodon’
the Musk mound. There’s and filtering results to ‘People
more emphasis on discussion, you follow’.
so dial down the noise – and
ramp up thoughtful chat. you can later move servers QSupport the system
and retain your social graph. Twitter was never really free.
QSelect a server You were the product, being
Mastodon is decentralised. QIntroduce yourself advertised to. Now Elon Musk
Choose a server when signing Make sure you add an avatar is desperate for ad revenue,
up (either in the app or at and bio – Mastodon users and looking for ways to limit
joinmastodon.org), from large are suspicious of ‘blanks’. In the service for those who
general-interest ones to niche Settings > Profile > Appearance, won’t pay. Mastodon doesn’t
topic-orientated ones. Ideally, use metadata to add a links have ads, but it does cost
peruse admin policies first table. Next, assuming you’d money to run – so if you use
and see how feedback is dealt like people to discover you, it often, consider donating to
with, and if a server routinely write a post that includes the your server’s upkeep. Most
blacklists people. Don’t worry, #introduction hashtag. run Patreons or similar.

HASH(TAG) IT OUT

QBrowse trends
Under Explore, the Posts
tab shows those gaining
traction – the closest thing
Visible touch to Twitter’s ‘For you’. You can’t
View a Mastodon profile search for keywords, but can
in a browser, copy the URL peruse news and trending
and add it to your RSS hashtags. Also use hashtags
client. Now that account’s to find topics of interest.
posts are always available
and never lost in your QFollow hashtags
scrolling feed. When you find a hashtag feed
you like, tap/click the ‘+’ icon
to follow it. In Mastodon itself,
saved hashtags are found
under the ‘ˠ’ menu or ‘#’
on your profile. Third-party
clients may surface them
more overtly, such as in the
main timeline view.

58
 MASTODON
ON MOBILE

MEGALODON
This Mastodon client is
a joy to use. The interface
is slick, providing fast
access to your saved
hashtags, yet there are
enough options to bend
the app to your liking.
Need more? Splash out
£2.39 on Fedilab, where
almost everything can
be customised.
£free / Android

TUSKER
This Mastodon app
prizes efficiency: with
two taps, you can get
PROTECT anywhere you need to
YOURSELF be. And there are loads
of options, including one
to disable infinite scrolling.
QBlock and filter If the text-heavy nature
From the ‘ˠ’ menu on profile of Tusker grates, try the
pages, you can mute or block prettier (if less efficient)
an individual – or their entire Ice Cubes.
server. Want to hide or remove £free / iOS
CONTROL THE SPREAD all posts featuring a word or LINE IT UP
phrase from specific timelines?
Head to Filters in the settings.
QBoost the signal QGo advanced
Unlike on Twitter, favouriting QTurn on 2FA Missing TweetDeck? You
a post doesn’t put it in front In the Account section of can use a similar layout here:
of more people – it’s just Mastodon’s settings, go to in Settings > Preferences
an acknowledgment to the ‘Two-factor Auth’ and turn > Appearance, tick ‘Enable
person who posted it. Boosts it on. Mastodon isn’t (yet) advanced web interface’. Note
(equivalent to retweets) help a major target for nefarious that this works very nicely on
a post gain traction. types, but it’s still better to iPad and can be saved to your ELK
protect your account than not. home screen as a progressive Mastodon’s a playground
QPick your audience web app. for native software, but
Posts default to public. You QUse warnings experimentation goes
can change this in settings, They’re used sporadically, but QTweak columns beyond app stores. Elk
or have individual posts be content warnings (CWs) are Tap on the slider buttons in is a progressive web app
‘unlisted’ (not shown on public baked deep into Mastodon’s the Home and Notifications that rethinks Mastodon
timelines) or followers-only. DNA. Consider adding one columns to, respectively, with a user-friendly
Direct messages send posts to shield any post that might toggle boosts/replies and interface, and it feels
to specific users. Note that trigger users – or when adjust notification visibility a lot like Twitter – minus
these are not end-to-end you want its content hidden and sounds. And tap the all the bad bits.
encrypted and server admins unless the post is actively hamburger menu to load £free / web
may have access to them. tapped or clicked. quick links to key feeds.

59
 T E S T E D PA N A S O N I C L U M I X S 5 I I

21st century Pan

Whether you’re an up-and-coming YouTuber or
just want to upgrade your cat photography game,
this new full-frame Lumix is a do-it-all warrior

£1999 (body only) / go.stuff.tv/S5ii

Panasonic’s mirrorless cameras
are some of the best out there, 1
but both the Micro Four Thirds
Lumix G and full-frame Lumix S
ranges have long been playing
catchup to Sony and Canon when Street fighting Pan
it comes to autofocus. The S5 II is fairly compact given
The Lumix S5 II has arrived to its full-frame sensor, and with a
change all that, tossing out the prime lens attached it might even
old contrast-based AF setup for be described as discreet. But it
a swanky hybrid system similar is solid, with a weather-proof
to those used by its competitors. magnesium alloy frame (1), and
Built around a newly developed sealed ports and joints ensuring
24.2MP full-frame sensor and this camera can stand up to the
processor, this follow-up to rigours of outdoor use.
2020’s Lumix S5 (which will
continue to be part of the lineup Rocket Pan
for now) also has boosted in-body The autofocus system feels very
image stabilisation, a revamped speedy and reliable (2), with both
OLED viewfinder and a greater phase- and contrast-detection
range of video options. A new fan allowing it to find and lock onto
also stops it overheating when a subject significantly faster than
you’re filming in 4K. its predecessor. It can shoot at
Crucially, it remains relatively a fair clip too (up to 30fps with
[ Words Sam Kieldsen ]

affordable at around £2000 for the electronic shutter), for sharp

the body, placing this camera shots of on-the-move subjects.
within the reach of aspiring
content creators. Does that Walk like a Pan
make it the ideal all-rounder? The new Active IS mode nudges
the S5 II towards gimbal levels of
stability at times. We were able
to pan and tilt and shoot long
telephoto clips handheld, and
even walking while filming
resulted in rock-steady footage.
An actual gimbal will do an even
better job, but still…

This charming Pan Trouble Pan

The S5 II is a dream for video, Battery life is acceptable rather
with strong performance in than excellent, and you’ll need to
all lighting conditions and an double or even triple up on spare
almost dizzying array of formats, batteries if you want to be out
framerates and picture profiles and about filming all day. But it’s
available. Still images are also easy to recharge on the go, with
great, with lively colours and the USB-C port (3) supporting
detail in evidence even with onboard charging – just hook it
straight-from-camera jpegs. up to a power source.

Great Autofocus In-body Image

build is truly stabilisation quality is
quality rapid is solid excellent
GOOD No
MEH recording
lights
EVIL Cables can
block the
screen

60
 T E S T E D PA N A S O N I C L U M I X S 5 I I

Pan on
the corner
Video can be shot
using the full surface of
the sensor – useful
when shooting for
multiple aspect
ratios.
Tech specs
Sensor 24.2MP full-frame CMOS ISO range 50-204,800
(extended) Burst shooting 9fps (mech), 30fps (elec)
Video 6K @ 30fps, 4K @ 60fps, 1080p @ 180fps Displays
1.84m-dot vari-angle touchscreen, 3.68m-dot OLED EVF
Connectivity USB-C, HDMI, 2x 3.5mm, 2.5mm remote,
Wi-Fi, Bluetooth Dimensions 134x102x90mm, 740g

A Pan for all seasons

It’s a fancy shooter, but what’s the Lumix S5 II like
to handle? Here’s a closer look at the user interface…

Q Reach out Q Line out

This camera is fairly hefty Connectivity is impressive,
in the hands, but the large with a full-size HDMI port
grip and textured material sitting alongside USB-C
on the body ensure it sits and sockets for a mic,
there securely. Button and a remote shutter button
dial placement is fine too, and headphones. Storage
with most clearly labelled comes courtesy of two SD
and positioned within card slots rather than the
comfortable reach. speedier CFexpress.

Q Turn out Q Lights out

The OLED viewfinder Given the Lumix S5 II’s
is beautifully clear and video-centric approach,
responsive, and the bright it’s surprising there are
touchscreen can flip out no tally lamps to indicate
3 to face in almost any when it’s recording. These
direction; but using some help to avoid mishaps such
of the camera’s ports will as delivering a long piece
block a clear view of it to camera only to realise
when it’s facing forwards. you didn’t hit record.

While people will understandably focus on the STUFF SAYS +++++

video capture side of the S5 II, it truly feels like a A treat for videographers,
capable all-round camera that can be used for all
your still photography needs as well. The image
photographers and
quality and stabilisation are amazing, and apart everyone in between,
from a couple of minor quibbles there really aren’t any true this is a top all-rounder
weaknesses here. @samkieldsen at an excellent price

61
 G R O U P T E S T L AW N M O W E R S

Robot, self-propelled or lightweight pushalong – there’s an electric

lawnmower for everyone. So which will be the lord of your sward?

Honda Miimo 3000 Live Stihl RMI 522 C

What’s the story? clippings are mulched to What’s the story? see the lawn get neater but
Top of Honda’s robotic feed the lawn. This is Stihl’s newest smart rarely notice mowing. It’s so
range, this machine has Smaller smart Miimos robo-mower. There’s a quiet that active times can
a huge mowing area and use real-time weather data cheaper model for smaller even be at night. Scheduling
is packed with clever tech. to avoid mowing in heavy areas and one that does up and app control are more
Its 3G/4G SIM card enables rain. This one doesn’t need to 5000m2, but the 522 C sophisticated than they are
remote monitoring from that, because it’s designed hits the Goldilocks spot of with the Honda.
anywhere via an app to mow in all weathers. up to 2100m2 – just about This mower has a built-in
(Android or iOS), while right for most gardens. Max rain sensor and connects
GPS tracking lets you Is it any good? gradient is 40%. to weather apps: it won’t
view its location and create Mowing and edge-trimming The iMOW app (Android mow when rain is forecast,
a geofenced operating are excellent, and it’s a real and iOS) lets you check on making the time up on
area to protect against luxury to adjust everything its status, send it out, dock other days. And if it senses
theft. In a large garden, from indoors via the app it or change your plans. It a surprise downpour, it
you can even use GPS to rather than hunching over likes to mow little and often, trundles back to its charger
set mowing zones. the control panel. You can mulching grass clippings and again adapts plans. You
Max gradient is 27% and command it from anywhere to feed nutrients into the can set rain sensitivity, with
the mowing area is a huge in the world, but a seat lawn. As with the Honda, push notifications alerting
4000m2 – basically an acre. by the window lets you sensors detect collisions you if it’s too rainy, hot or
This is a genuine alternative enjoy its near-instant and stop the blades. cold to mow.
to a ride-on mower. responsiveness. Tech features include We tested the Stihl on
The asking price includes You can start or stop a voice control via Siri or a lawn with two separately
a charging dock that sits at mow at any time, choose Google Assistant. It also wired zones, and there was
the edge of the lawn, plus from eight cutting heights, has an anti-theft PIN and no way to use the app to
perimeter wire and pegs. check status and edit GPS, with a notification remotely move it from one
You can set this up yourself, schedules (weekly, monthly if it’s removed from the to the other; but it’s light
or budget extra for dealer or seasonal). Plus you can garden and satellite location enough to carry without
installation. add Miimo as an Alexa skill on a map. any difficulty, something
If an acre sounds like a lot, for simple voice commands. The price includes the like a bag of shopping.
it is – but the Honda mows charging dock but not
for 90 minutes at a time, £3269 / go.stuff.tv/Miimo perimeter wire or pegs. £1870 / go.stuff.tv/522C
recharges for 45 then
heads back out. Sensors Key specs Is it any good? Key specs
detect bumps (objects, O 22cm mowing width Install is straightforward, O 20cm mowing width
pets, people) and stop the O 4000m2 mowing area after which it mows well O 2100m2 mowing area
blades automatically. Grass O 14kg and is largely invisible: you O 10kg
[ Words Caramel Quin ]

STUFF SAYS High-priced but effortless: STUFF SAYS An intelligent robot mower
the best on test for huge gardens ++++, that adapts to the conditions +++++

62
G R O U P T E S T L AW N M O W E R S

BEST FOR
LARGER
LAWNS

I have a team
Got more than an acre
to mow? For even
bigger lawns, you can
manage a fleet of
Hondas with the Multi
Miimo system.

Super looper
The Stihl is a bit of a
self-starter: with a
dynamic mowing plan,
you set active times
and it makes its own
schedule within them.

BEST FOR
SUPER
SMARTS

63
 G R O U P T E S T L AW N M O W E R S

Meshage of love
The ‘grassbox’ is
actually a mesh bag
on a wire frame, so
it’s lightweight and
strong, and packs
down for storage.

Grass in pocket
Turn on the ‘savE’
energy-preserving
mode to extend the
Husqvarna’s mowing
time in good
conditions.

BEST FOR
SIMPLE
SETUP

Husqvarna LC 142iS
What’s the story? Is it any good? washer and knob on each side and replace
Self-propelled mowers work like e-assist Assembly only takes five minutes, but them in different holes.
bikes, giving you extra welly to make light mowing is frustrating compared with Mulching requires an optional kit. This
work of even large lawns. This is the first the others on test for a couple of reasons. contains a mulch plug to take the place of
of three on test – and the only one that First is mowing performance: in our testing the mesh grassbox, and special mulching
can’t be stored up on its end. The handle it stalled too often, in conditions where blades. Yep, you have to change the
double-folds, to sit on a shed floor or others coped fine. The self-propelling mower’s blades to mulch. Again, it’s
shelf. That means a bigger footprint than worked, and the mower wasn’t blocked unnecessarily fiddly.
mowers that can be stashed upright. with clippings – it just struggled to mow The single self-propelling speed is also
This kit comes with a single 36V 4.0Ah at times. annoying, compared with the freedom of
battery and charger – and it’s a fairly Under the hood, there’s a safety key variable speeds. It means fewer controls
heavy machine. A handle on the body and what looks like a power switch. The to think about, but we’d rather be able to
helps with lifting, though. switch engages an energy-saving mode tailor the pace.
It has a single speed of about 2.5mph, for a longer runtime. We flicked this off,
a modest walking pace, and the controls but the mower still stalled on longer grass £709 / go.stuff.tv/LC142
are pretty straightforward: pull the wire that rivals could handle. Edge performance,
handle underneath up to the main handle meanwhile, was a bit tufty but OK. Key specs
to get it moving; flick a safety lever on the Changing between the two handle O 42cm mowing width
left out of the way, then pull down the top heights is also annoying compared with O 500m2 mowing area
handle to mow. similar mowers. You have to remove a bolt, O 19kg

STUFF SAYS A self-propelled mower with a frustrating design and so-so performance +++,,

64
 G R O U P T E S T L AW N M O W E R S

Gawk of the town

The car-like styling
includes angular
bodywork, rakish
headlights and a
‘gearstick’ lever for
cutting height.

Don’t get me long

The Ego’s adjustable
cutting height has
a wide range of
25-90mm, making
it ready for all lawns
and all seasons.

BEST FOR
OVERALL
QUALITY

Ego LM2135E-SP
What’s the story? Is it any good? wire up to the handle to mow. Your hands
Ego is a fairly new brand that exclusively This is our favourite self-propelled mower naturally rest on large buttons at either
makes cordless garden tools and batteries on test, thanks to its superb mowing side to engage self-propelling; a control
to power them. Its range even includes performance and manoeuvrability. No in the middle sets the speed.
rechargeable ride-on mowers – not a assembly is required – you just clip the It’s also pretty agile despite its size. The
petrol engine in sight. mesh grassbox together and charge the variable speed lets you mow long lengths
This self-propelled mower is powered battery. If you have a garden larger than in comfort, and then it turns easily – this
by Ego’s signature 56V battery. In this 1000m2, its high-speed charging is great 29kg beast doesn’t feel heavy in use.
case it has a 7.5Ah capacity, enough to because spare batteries cost a lot. Take a It’s not only in its styling that the Ego
cut 1000m2, and recharges in just an hour. lunch break and it’s ready to go again. resembles a muscle car: there are alert
The battery and charger are huge… and Our only real quibble is that mulching lights on the dashboard, and even twin
loud, as the latter is fan-cooled. requires an insert, sold separately, to clip headlights (three LEDs on each side) for
A lever lets you fold the mower handle into the back. At this price, we want it late-night mowing sessions.
forwards, where it clicks into place flat. included. Mind you, the fact that it’s an
You can then tip the mower back to wheel optional accessory does reduce waste £919 / go.stuff.tv/Ego2135
it around vertically like a suitcase and even if you never mulch.
store it upright for a pleasingly small shed We found mowing performance to be Key specs
footprint. The same lever selects from very impressive, including great edges O 52cm mowing width
three handle heights, while a knob lets with barely any tufts. Press a central O 1000m2 mowing area
you pick from seven cutting heights. safety button and then pull the green O 29kg

STUFF SAYS An all-round winner – the best self-propelled mower of the bunch +++++

65
 G R O U P T E S T L AW N M O W E R S

High slopes
A brushless motor
is teamed with
rear-wheel drive and
variable speed, to
tackle sloping lawns
with ease.

My weigh
The Worx is the
heaviest mower on
test – almost three
times the weight of
the Flymo. But it’s
easy to wheel about.

BEST FOR
RAW
POWER

Worx WG761E
What’s the story? with a side discharge chute, to clip on LED headlights, while a lever on the body
This self-propelling mower is top of if you’re mulching instead of gathering selects from seven cutting heights – and
Worx’s new Nitro range. It has a variable your clippings. there’s a safety key too.
speed and an unusual battery system: The Worx is a large and powerful piece Mowing performance was very good
four 20V batteries team up to deliver of gear, but it’s easy to store. Press a for us, but not the best on test. It didn’t
80V. They sit in a removable BaseCamp button and the handle folds forwards stall with the grassbox but did stall
charger and the whole thing clips into the and locks into place. Then you can securely occasionally when mulching, and lawn
mower. No separate charger is needed, tip the mower up to wheel it around or edges were slightly tufty. Cornering
just a power cable. stow it vertically (this thing is heavy but was a bit hard but its power made
The entire BaseCamp can also be used, you rarely need to lift it). The same button mowing long lengths a breeze, even
Ghostbusters-style, to power the Worx sets the handle height for mowing, from over bumpy ground. Overall, the Worx
80V backpack leaf blower. The 20V cells three options. lived up to the promise of petrol-like
work with PowerShare-compatible tools Pushing the mower, your fingers pull lawnmowing performance.
too… although on test we found that the a black wire handle to the main handle
mower only worked with all four batteries to mow and your thumbs push an orange £900 / go.stuff.tv/WG761E
in place. wire handle to engage self-propelling. You
can do one or both. A control in easy reach Key specs
Is it any good? sets the speed, from a crawl to a brisk O51cm mowing width
Assembly is minimal: just clip the mesh walk that blitzes lawns fast. There’s also O 1000m2 mowing area
grassbox to its wire frame. It also comes a button on the dash to turn on its four O 35kg

STUFF SAYS A good self-propelling option that performs a lot like a petrol mower ++++,

66
 Summer skinned
The Flymo’s grassbox
is made of hard
plastic, not mesh.
We accidentally
‘drop tested’ it and
it didn’t break.

Love and garage

Stored on end, the
Flymo takes up just
39x30cm of floor
space – the smallest
footprint of any
mower on test.

BEST FOR
SMALLER
LAWNS

Flymo UltraStore 380R

What’s the story? are the norm. Assembly took 10 minutes, pressed the central safety button, you can
The most compact non-robot mower on with four fiddly bolts to attach the handles squeeze either grip to mow. An LED in the
test, this Flymo isn’t self-propelling but and a two-part grassbox to clip together. middle indicates battery life.
it’s super-easy to push. And storage is a It comes with two safety keys but you There are five cutting heights, lots of
joy: either clip the grassbox to the handle only need one, so there’s a spare if you handle heights and a roller for a traditional
to store upright, or double-fold the handle lose it. striped effect. The vertical storage, with
and tuck it away horizontally on a shelf. The Flymo is great for smaller gardens. the grassbox clipped to the handle, is
Either way, this mower is light enough to At 36V we expected it to struggle in tough genius. You can move it around like a
carry one-handed. patches, but it was determined to rise to lightweight wheely suitcase.
The kit we tested comes with two any challenge and refused to stall, even This is a great buy if your garden can
chargers and twin 18V 4.0Ah batteries, on long or damp grass. It soldiered on be mowed inside its 28-minute run time.
for 36V performance. The batteries are even when bunged up, so it’s important For a bigger lawn, you might want to go
small and work across a wide range of to notice the plastic indicator on top when self-propelled or robotic.
Power For All Alliance tools, from brands the grassbox is full.
including Bosch and Gardena. Sharing It sounds whiny but there’s no lack of £480 / go.stuff.tv/380R
between tools saves money and materials. power here. And it’s nimble: you can turn
easily and tackle even small patches of Key specs
Is it any good? grass and awkward corners. O 38cm mowing width
First of all, we applaud the use of paper Mowing ergonomics are great. There O 230m2 mowing area
packaging where single-use plastic bags are twin hand grips and, once you’ve O 13kg

STUFF SAYS Surprisingly powerful, easy to store – this one’s ideal for small gardens +++++

67
 TECH TITANS

TECH
TITANS
GALAXY S
Stuff ’s top five phones from
Samsung’s flagship series

Warn in my side Sweet beams

The curved edges were We miss the days
mainly just to look nice, of phones with nifty
but could also display extras such as the S6’s
notifications or flash for IR blaster, which meant
incoming calls when you could use it as a
it was face-down. universal remote.

01 SAMSUNG GALAXY S6 EDGE

Samsung had made Glass connected together range, opting instead for amount of the bloat. Oh,
phones that had outsold by a band of aluminium, its own octa-core Exynos and did we mention the
the iPhone before the the S6 Edge felt as good processors, and it was a camera was superb?
Galaxy S6 Edge came to hold as an iPhone or move that paid off. Paired The only real gripe was
along, but it had never HTC’s One M9 (remember with 3GB of RAM, the S6 the axing of the removable
launched anything that them?). And what a Edge blew the competition battery and microSD card
made even the most stonker that screen was out of the duckpond. slot. But overall, the Galaxy
hardcore Apple acolytes as well: a 5.1in QHD Super This was the first Galaxy S6 Edge was an absolute
question their whole AMOLED that packed in phone to get a fingerprint stunner of a handset – and
belief system. almost 80% more pixels sensor that didn’t require one that set up Samsung
With its curved display, than Apple’s Retina display a fiddly swiping gesture to to be the world-beating
and the plastic chassis of of the time. work, while Samsung also smartphone player that
its predecessors replaced Samsung boldly ditched streamlined its TouchWiz it still is today.
by two slabs of Gorilla Qualcomm chips for the S6 interface, removing a large RELEASED 2015

68
 TECH TITANS

You have placed a

MORE GALAXY GOODNESS! S23 REVIEW p76
quill in my heart
To create space
to dock the stylus,
Samsung had to make ALMOST
compromises. So there
was no microSD slot.
GREAT…

02 GALAXY S22 ULTRA

The S22 Ultra wasn’t Samsung’s first Galaxy S8 2017

supercharged Galaxy – that accolade While the S8’s
goes to the S20 Ultra with its 100x screen didn’t quite
zoom – but with the Note being stretch from edge to
retired in 2021, the S22 Ultra took edge, it was the first
on some of its key features in an even to really minimise
bigger frame. those borders. You
Its bright 6.8in screen was big could also link it to
enough to warrant the inclusion of a monitor via DeX.
an S Pen stylus, which could now be
stored inside the handset itself rather
than constantly getting lost under sofa
cushions. Its handwriting recognition
skills were expanded to 88 languages,
plus it used AI to predict what you
were scribbling.
Available with up to 12GB of RAM
and as much as 1TB of built-in storage Galaxy S2 2011
the S22 Ultra put some laptops The super-thin and
to shame, while the Exynos 2200 super-powerful S2
processor meant it would blaze put Samsung on
through whatever you threw at it. the map. We’re glad
The S23 Ultra has arrived to usurp its accelerometer-
it now, but that doesn’t stop last controlled browser
year’s model being a real stunner. navigation never
RELEASED 2022 caught on, though.

Galaxy S 2010
How could we ignore
the OG? It looks old
and chunky now but
it was sleek and sexy
in its day, with a 4in
screen that made
the iPhone’s look
washed out.
03 GALAXY S20 04 GALAXY S10 05 GALAXY S7

Samsung decided to skip a few Samsung pretty much banished At first glance it’s hard to tell the
numbers after the S10, jumping bezels for good with the S10, thanks difference between the S6 and
straight to the S20, but the important largely to its punch-hole selfie-cam S7, but Samsung added some
number here was 120. The S20’s (which was shaped more like a pill on key features that made the newer
[ Words Tom Wiggins, Esat Dedezade ]

predictably vibrant 6.2in OLED display the Plus version). Sure, there was still phone that bit better to live with.
had its refresh rate bumped up to a visible sliver along the bottom, but The microSD slot was reinstated Galaxy S3 2012
120Hz, which made scrolling slicker it wasn’t big enough for a fingerprint and the metal-and-glass chassis Samsung started to
than a wet whippet in Wayfarers. The sensor so an ultrasonic one was built was given IP68 water-resistance, flex its muscles with
S20+ gave you more screen, the S20 into the screen instead. Add in the while a bigger battery and better the S3, introducing
Ultra more zoom, but the standard triple-camera setup, plus optional low-light camera performance made an innovative (if
S20 got the balance spot-on. 5G, and this was a top all-rounder. it the complete package. gimmicky and
RELEASED 2020 RELEASED 2019 RELEASED 2016 not totally reliable)
eye-tracking feature
called Smart Stay.

69
GET THE BEST GADGET
DEALS WITH STUFF

In the mag Online

We pick out the Choose from
best price for our roster of
every featured great-value
product retailers

Ever wondered what’s up with the links in Stuff? We’ve got a team of retail pros who
scour the web to find you the best gadget deals – visit any go.stuff.tv link in this mag
and you’ll be taken to the best deal for that product. If you make a purchase, we may
get a small commission. It’s that simple, and has no impact on how much you pay.
 TESTED SENNHEISER AMBEO SOUNDBAR PLUS

How deep is your loaf? Barely bigger than a baguette, Sennheiser’s

(slightly) more affordable new soundbar still
promises mighty audio from floor to ceiling
£1299 / go.stuff.tv/AmbeoPlus
Jive walkin’ QThe original Ambeo delivers
The remote is a utterly convincing Dolby Atmos
cut above the ones spatial audio, but is very big and
bundled with most very, very expensive. In an effort
soundbars. It handles to democratise the tech (and sell
lots of bonus functions soundbars to those of us who
as well as the don’t have a fortune to spend),
essentials. Sennheiser has come up with
a Plus model. It is less big and
less expensive, but still aims for
effective single-box 7.1.4 sound.

QAt just over a metre long it’s

altogether more manageable than
the original Ambeo (now known
as the Max). The entire thing is
finished to a high standard, with
a stack of wired connectivity
around the back and AirPlay 2,
Chromecast, Spotify Connect and
Tidal Connect support all built in.

QWith a Dolby Atmos soundtrack,

the Ambeo Plus is endlessly
listenable. There’s proper width
and depth, and the all-important
impression of height is undeniable.
The up-firing drivers may struggle
with very high ceilings, but as long
as you don’t live in a barn you’ll find
the sound gratifyingly tall.

QDialogue remains intelligible at

the centre, and the top end is great
for a soundbar with no dedicated
tweeters. A separate subwoofer,
snappily called the Ambeo Sub,
is available for another £599. As
many as four can be wirelessly
connected – but don’t feel you
have to. The bar does great work
with the bass by itself.

Tech specs
Q You should be enhancing Q Playin’ alive Drivers 2x 4in, 7x 2in full-range
If you find yourself in the vicinity, You’ll only find a single HDMI Amplifiers 9x Class D, 400W
capacitive controls on top of the eARC socket round the back, Connectivity HDMI eARC, 2x
soundbar take care of volume so any next-gen consoles will HDMI 2, optical, stereo RCA, USB,
adjustments and input selection. have to be plugged into one of subwoofer out, Ethernet, Bluetooth,
The smartphone app adds EQ your telly’s HDMI 2.1 inputs for Wi-Fi, Spotify Connect, AirPlay 2,
tweaking and room calibration, the full 4K @ 120Hz experience. Chromecast, Tidal Connect
as well as Alexa voice control. Assuming it has them, of course. Dimensions 1051x121x77mm, 6.3kg

STUFF SAYS ‘Plus’ may mean less in this case, but it still makes a lot of sense +++++

If you’ve been More affordable isn’t the same as cheap, but the Sennheiser Ambeo Plus nevertheless
holding out for a delivers a sonic performance that closely resembles its bigger brother at a far more
cheaper Ambeo, palatable price. It also looks the business and is crammed full of features. While this
you win again is hardly the only soundbar at this sort of money that can do convincing Dolby Atmos
Simon Lucas spatial sound, it has to be one of the very best.

71
 SONY ZV-1F

ONE TWO THREE

JOBY GORILLAPOD 500 RODE VIDEOMICRO II ULANZI VL49
E… D
ES AD
TH ST

Sony makes a vlogging This broadcast-quality The ZV-1F isn’t a particularly

R
FI

handle for the ZV-1F, but miniature microphone plugs strong low-light performer,
you don’t need it – just straight into the ZV-1F’s so a small LED lamp can be a
get this vastly cheaper 3.5mm socket, giving it a massive help when vlogging
GorillaPod, whose flexible real audio upgrade without indoors – or after dark
legs can be wrapped around adding much bulk (it’s a outdoors. This one is really
fence railings or branches, mere 39g). Its suspension cheap and delivers up to
or splayed in a traditional mount prevents unwanted 2hrs of full-power light
tabletop tripod fashion. The sound from shocks and (or over 4hrs at minimum
500 is sturdy enough to vibrations being picked brightness) with its
hold the ZV-1F, plus these up, while foam and furry rechargeable battery.
other two accessories along windshields take the sting Plus it has three cold shoes
with it… out of blustery weather. for other accessories.
£39 / joby.com £79 / rode.com £17 / amazon.co.uk

72
 INSTANT UPGRADES

E… T
IS RY

ES GE
TH W T
…

TH EN
NO

TH
DAVINCI
RESOLVE 18
A brilliant free
video-editing
platform designed
by the folks behind
1 USE THE HUES 2 EXPOSE YOURSELF 3 EARN YOUR STRIPES the Blackmagic
cinema cameras,
The ZV-1F’s standard colour Log profiles like S-Log2 need The camera’s zebra display will Resolve lets you
science gives videos a nice to be carefully exposed or help you nail the exposure. Tap fiddle like a pro.
enough look, but for a more your footage can easily end the Menu button, and in the £free / blackmagic
professional vlog style we up looking either too dark pink Exposure/Color submenu design.com
suggest turning to Sony’s and noisy or too blown-out select Zebra Display and set
built-in picture profiles, starting and bright. For S-Log2, we it to On. Then tap Zebra Level,
with S-Log2. This lets you recommend overexposing by select Custom 1 and change its
maximise dynamic range and two stops (don’t worry, we’ll settings to Std+Range, 70 and
colour detail in post-production. adjust back down later). Hit +-5. This will be our base level to
On the camera’s default setting ‘Fn’ again and this time tap the ensure exposure compensation,
it can be selected by hitting ‘Fn’, Exposure Comp icon (top row, ISO, shutter speed and aperture
tapping the Picture Profile icon fourth from the left by default) will put your subject’s skin in
and selecting PP7. to make adjustments. the right range. TOPAZ
VIDEO AI
Yes, it’s pricey, but
Topaz’s upscaling
alchemy is the
best you’ll find
outside of a pro
movie studio. It’ll
turn fuzzy clips
into 4K perfection.
$299 /
topazlabs.com

4 GIMME SOME SKIN 5 FIX IT IN THE MIX 6 BE A STABLE GENIUS

LICKD
Now set the camera to P Mode Import your file into Sony’s Before exporting your video, Want to add
and point it at your subject. free Catalyst Browse software consider stabilising it as well licensed music
Your aim is to get the on-screen (available for Mac and PC). (that’s if you’ve been shooting from big names
preview showing zebra stripes Yes, it will look blown-out and handheld). Click Adjustment to your videos?
in your subject’s skin tones. overexposed, but don’t fret: > Stabilize Clip > Analyze, and This subscription
With the settings you’ve just we’re going to dial it back while Catalyst Browse will show you service lets you
applied at step 3, you can be removing noise from the image. a preview. It’ll crop the frame do that – without
sure the face will be correctly Hit Adjustments > Adjust Color, slightly, but this can be adjusted fear of the
exposed. Just tweak the then in the Look section select using the cropping ratio slider copyright police
ISO (via the Fn button), then 709(800) from the ‘Convert To’ before exporting. There – who striking you down.
shutter speed and aperture, box. Drag the exposure slider needs a gimbal? (Note that the from $15/m /
[ Words Sam Kieldsen ]

until skin looks more stripy than two stops to the left; your video ZV-1F’s Active Stabilization lickd.co
a barbershop pole. should now look beautiful. must be off for this.)

73
 [ Words Mike Jennings ]

74
 TESTED ASUS ROG ZEPHYRUS M16 (2023)

Tech specs
Screen 16in 2560x 1600 240Hz Mini LED Processor Intel
Core i9-13900H RAM 32GB GPU Nvidia RTX 4090 16GB
OS Windows 11 Storage 1TB Connectivity Thunderbolt 4,
USB-C/DisplayPort, 2x USB 3.2, 3.5mm, microSD,
HDMI, Wi-Fi 6E, Bluetooth 5.2 Battery life Up to 5hrs
Dimensions 355x246x22.9mm, 2.3kg

Should I play or should I flow?

Nvidia’s new 4000-series laptops graphics chips
are mighty – and multi-talented…

Q Clash Q Dash
At the M16’s native screen Asus usually limits the
resolution, there’s not GPU’s power draw to 85W
much the RTX 4090 can’t but Turbo mode ups the
do. It averaged 88fps in ante to 120W, plus an extra
Assassin’s Creed Valhalla 25W available for boosting
on Ultra settings and when temperatures allow.
2 rattled through Red Dead Games saw a 10-20%
Redemption 2 at 83fps improvement… but fan
using the default profile. noise jumped up too.
4

Q Flash Q Gnash
Light riot London bawling Nvidia’s Deep Learning Just keep in mind that
Behind the 17,000 holes drilled Audio has surprising impact, with Super Sampling (DLSS) other, chunkier gaming
into the lid sit over 1700 LEDs. a pair of 2W woofers delivering tech boosts framerates laptops can run their RTX
This is called the AniMe Matrix punchy bass and two tweeters by rendering games at a 4090s at a max power
and it can be customised with churning out solid mid-range lower res then upscaling. limit of 175W. When you’re
text, animations and even the clout (4). There’s enough volume Version 3 uses AI to create paying north of four grand
machine’s vital stats. But seeing to fill a room, but headphones are entirely new frames, it’s fair to want the best
how it faces away from you while still best for gaming – not least spliced imperceptibly performance possible, and
you’re using the laptop (3), it’s because they help drown out the between the ‘real’ ones. the M16 doesn’t offer that.
largely there for showing off. noise of the cooling fans.

If you want a slim, smart-looking machine that STUFF SAYS ++++,

delivers fantastic gaming pace and demolishes A portable powerhouse
desktop tasks, you can’t do better than this year’s
Zephyrus M16. But rivals will soon offer even
with a gorgeous display,
more power and connectivity, with only marginal but one that doesn’t take
weight gains. When spending so much cash, we’d rather full advantage of its
hold out for the most grunt going. @mikejjennings mega-pricey components

75
 10 DAYS WITH THE SAMSUNG GALAXY S23

My kind of Gal
The most mainstream Galaxy phone stays small, while stepping up performance
for its 2023 iteration. Is that the perfect formula for Tom Morgan-Freelander?
from £849 / go.stuff.tv/S23

going to be dust magnets. A dab

DAY 01 with a wet cloth shouldn’t cause
I get a strong whiff of familiarity any problems, at least, given the
when taking Samsung’s latest whole thing is rated IP68 against
hero phone out of its box. The dust and water.
Galaxy S23’s design changes I’m a big fan of Samsung’s
are certainly on the subtle side, AMOLED screens, and the S23’s
and there’s been no growth is extra-easy on the eye thanks
spurt from last year. There are to its 2340x1080 resolution and The S23 range
no flashy new cameras like the 120Hz refresh rate. That’s not has Gorilla Glass
much spendier S23 Ultra either, so many pixels that the GPU has Victus 2, which can
sticking with the same sensor to work overtime when playing apparently survive
trio as the outgoing S22. games, but enough that you’ll a 1m drop onto
But bigger changes lie beneath never spot the individual dots concrete.
its glass/metal exterior, namely without a magnifying glass. More
Qualcomm’s latest and greatest impressive is the 1750-nit peak
mobile processor and a bigger brightness – visibility in bright

A year of processing improvements

means fantastic photos even though
it uses the same sensors as the S22
battery. The next 10 days should sunshine isn’t a problem, and HDR
reveal if they’re enough to justify content looks sublime. Images
a sizeable price bump over the have a largely natural tone out of
old model. the box, although you can whack
With a flat matt finish that up the vibrancy in the settings if
effortlessly shrugs off smudges that’s what you’re into.
and your choice of four hip pastel The 3.5mm headphone port
colours, the S23 feels suitably has long been dead in Samsung’s
premium in the hand. Now that eyes, but the S23 does at least
the ‘contour cut’ camera bump support the firm’s own hi-res
of the previous-gen model has Bluetooth codec. Those who take
been deleted in favour of three their listening seriously might
bare lenses, it has a stronger want a pair of Galaxy Buds2 Pro
resemblance to its Ultra variant. wireless earbuds, while everyone
That’s a small tweak that suits else can make do with the built-in
the already minimal styling, but stereo speakers: they’re clear and
I can already tell those lenses are full-bodied for their size.

76
 LO N G -T E R M T E S T

01 06
Donut of Truth™
01 Beautiful build quality and 04 Big price bump from last
02 05 epic performance year’s model
02 Ultra-bright screen with 05 No major upgrades to
natural colours design or cameras
03 One of the best camera 06 Battery will last a day but
04
03 setups on any smartphone not much more

Tech specs
Screen 6.1in
2340x1080
120Hz AMOLED
Processor
Snapdragon 8
Gen 2 RAM 8GB
OS Android 13
+ One UI 5.1
Storage
128/256GB
Cameras
50+12+10MP rear,
12MP front
Battery
3900mAh
(Qi, USB-C)
Dimensions
146x71x7.6mm,
168g

a convincing job at night now, and

DAY 03 I like that the Expert RAW mode
Whatever I do with it, the S23 feels finally takes full-resolution 50MP
wonderfully responsive. Samsung shots, rather than downsampled
tasked chipmaker Qualcomm with 12MP ones like last year.
a few under-the-hood tweaks for
the Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 CPU, and
that’s helped it to outpace rivals DAY 07
using off-the-shelf silicon in just Battery capacity has grown a
about every app I’ve tried. little from last year, but 3900mAh
Maybe 8GB of RAM isn’t exactly is still modest for a high-end
huge, but multitasking is flawless handset. I worried the S23 would
and gamers can expect rock-solid struggle to last all day, but the
framerates. Version 5.1 of One UI more efficient CPU has helped
is only a minor upgrade over last it breeze through from breakfast
year’s software, so owners of to bedtime without having to dip
previous Galaxy phones should into the power-saving settings.
feel right at home here – and That’s a welcome improvement
a promised four generations of over the S22. I wish wired charging
Android updates could make this speeds weren’t limited to a rather
the perfect long-haul handset. pedestrian 25W, but it’s great to
see the convenience of wireless
charging return.
DAY 04
Another year of image-processing
improvements means the S23 DAY 10
takes fantastic photos, even The 6.1in S23 feels positively diddy STUFF SAYS
though it uses the same 50MP compared to the current crop of
main snapper, 12MP ultrawide big-screen Android rivals. Should Samsung plays
and 10MP telephoto as its you go for the S23+ instead? After it safe, but this
predecessor. Differences are 10 days with the former, I’m not
minor, but noise is now absent convinced its bigger brother does
is still a brilliant
in all but the darkest of night enough to justify the £200-higher phone – and
shots, HDR balances highlights
and shadows brilliantly, and colours
price. OK, you get a beefier battery
and faster charging, but otherwise
the compact
are as punchy and vivid as I’ve it’s just an upscaled S23, with the flagship to beat
come to expect from Galaxy same cameras, performance and ++++,
phones. Portrait mode does display resolution.

77
 TESTED GAMES

PS5, PS4, XSX, XB1, PC / go.stuff.tv/Ishin

Like a Dragon: Ishin

As well as a name change, the latest entry in Sega’s long-running Yakuza franchise
throws it back in time, swapping 1980s organised crime for 1800s samurai culture

t’s built from the ground maintain order as the feared spend just jeffing about. Classic incredibly daft: tracking down
I up for modern platforms,
but Ishin is actually a
Shinsengumi paramilitary police.
It’s this group that protagonist
series minigames get historical
twists – so instead of hitting
mochi thieves, fighting sumo
wrestlers in a brothel, or chasing
remaster of a Japan-only PS3 Ryoma infiltrates on a quest to baseballs in a cage you’re slicing muggers in your underwear when
game released back in 2014. find his patriarch’s killer. cannonballs with your katana, or they make off with your clothes
So the presentation feels a bit There’s some fascinating insight you’re singing in a bar rather than at the bathhouse. Some are more
dated compared to the Yakuza into Japanese history here, helped a karaoke booth. Even with fast throwaway than others, but you
series’ recent releases; but while by a glossary in the pause menu, travel points for getting around, never quite know what you’re
19th-century Kyo might not be as although it’s often light on detail… you’re sure to run into something going to get.
bustling as contemporary Tokyo, and Ishin is just as guilty as the that piques your interest. It’s a historical drama that’s also
there’s still a liveliness to it. mainline series of having very Side quests really give the happy for you to lose your time
Merchants hawk their wares on wordy cutscenes. game its character. Some explore betting on chicken races or being
poles and samurai freely roam the Besides narrative and combat the socio-political tensions of the a rural masterchef. Who says
streets carrying katanas. Many (see panel opposite), Ishin’s other era, such as the xenophobia facing history can’t be fun?
are masterless ronin, while others key ingredient is the time you Western traders, while others are Alan Wen

STUFF SAYS An authentic exploration that keeps much of the classic Yakuza formula ++++,
78
 TESTED GAMES

Samurai knight’s
alright for fighting
Ryoma is a simple man who
deals with his problems using
his fists. Or at least that’s one
option. As a samurai he can
also fight with a katana – and
to remind us of the dawn of
modernity, he wields a pistol
as well. Switching between
stances can be done on the
fly with the d-pad, and there’s
one that uses both weapons
at once, spinning your blade
around then firing a random
volley of bullets.
If impaling or putting holes
in your foes isn’t brutal enough
(even though, in that bizarre
Yakuza logic, most of your
victims don’t actually die), you
This is arguably the best Tsk, schoolboy error: no can also build up a heat gauge.
root-vegetable-based shirt means nowhere to This opens contextual prompts
combat of the year so far. tuck in a napkin. for even more cinematic
takedowns, like booting them
into the river.
Once Ryoma becomes a
guard captain, you also unlock
Trooper Cards, which activate
stat buffs and obscure special
moves. Think thunderbolts
that electrocute multiple
enemies or a firebreathing
attack that burns foes in front
of you. It’s all very wacky.
Boss fights can be spongy
affairs, though, where it feels
as though your most powerful
attacks barely do more than
chip their health bar. These
often become battles of
attrition – as long as you’ve
brought enough healing items.

79
 TESTED GAMES

PS5, PS4, XSX, XB1, PC / go.stuff.tv/AtomicHeart

Atomic
Heart
This alternative Soviet utopia/nightmare has a novel (if controversial)
concept. But is there any substance beneath the distinctive style?

ith such quirky visuals, semi-open-world surface. There’s

W it’s easy to get drawn into
Atomic Heart’s alternative
little to actually do above ground,
and there are too many puzzles
history, where a technological impeding your progress between
breakthrough helped the Soviet areas. Even P-3 constantly moans If you like the
Union become the prime global about having to hack another idea of sexy
superpower and robots handle locked door or backtrack on robot women
all manual labour. But then you another fetch quest. Sorry, game with no faces,
remember you’re playing a KGB designers, but having characters
you are a
agent in a game made by Russian point out tedious and frustrating
developers, released in the same mechanics doesn’t make them bad person.
week as the anniversary of the less tedious and frustrating.
invasion of Ukraine… The robots are a relentless
Not that you’d ever know it: bunch that soak up multiple hits,
protagonist Agent P-3 sounds and ammo starts off scarce. So
like an obnoxious American GI, you fall back on a clunky fire axe,
with a penchant for one-liners which feels slow and imprecise.
and overly long chats with the Eventually you’ll craft an arsenal
eccentric AI built into his power and upgrade your glove to shock
glove. He’s on clean-up duty after enemies, freeze them in place or
everything goes horribly wrong, throw them around, but combat The Soviet
sending the robots – mostly still doesn’t flow smoothly. It’s at remake of
creepy mustachioed androids, odds with the frenetic soundtrack, 3-2-1 featured
but also other wacky forms that which is all adrenaline-fuelled a dramatically
could have rolled straight from guitars mixed with Soviet-era restyled
an episode of Robot Wars – on synths and folk songs.
Dusty Bin.
a murder frenzy. It ultimately rings rather hollow,
Things start off in linear but prioritising superficial kitsch and a
arresting cinematic fashion, then nonsensical plot over a gameplay
move between claustrophobic loop that offers little new.
underground labyrinths and a Alan Wen

STUFF SAYS An intriguing idea with a unique art style… but baffling and repetitive ++,,,
80
 TESTED GAMES

PS5, XSX, PC / go.stuff.tv/DeadSpace

Dead Space
Sound the remake klaxon: EA’s sci-fi survival horror classic has been
given new life – or should that be brought back from the dead?

he Dead Space series quickest way to dispatch enemies

T showed no signs of life
after getting canned
isn’t with headshots, but by cutting
off their limbs.
a decade ago, when EA thought Isaac’s familiarity with a Plasma
You’ll be games-as-a-service was the Cutter means that, even after
surprised how future. But it turns out single-player acquiring proper military hardware,
quickly weeds blockbusters are still in demand, you’ll often be falling back on that
grow back if and so are visual overhauls of weapon’s workmanlike precision.
generations-old faves. And improved physics mean your
you don’t get
This remake faithfully follows suit’s kinesis ability can interact
the roots out. the plot of the original Dead Space, with more objects now, which helps
where engineer Isaac Clarke and mix up the combat.
his crew are sent to investigate a Movement is perhaps a little
drifting spaceship that has been too smooth, though, which makes
overrun by a deadly alien virus, encounters easier: the chilling
transforming its workers into audio design and dimly lit corridors
monstrous Necromorphs. But might have your hair standing on
beyond adding a fresh lick of paint, end, but fights tend not to be quite
EA’s Motive Studio has given the as pulse-raising. Completionists
USG Ishimura a refurb, expanding will also have to put up with a bit
Only when he the space and making it explorable of backtracking… and while it does
got the prints sans loading screens. undeniably look great on next-gen
back from New rooms hold text and audio consoles, it’s not such a visual leap
Boots did Keith logs that flesh out the Ishimura that fans of the original absolutely
realise he’d kept crew’s backstory, side quests need to check it out.
expand the original 10hr runtime, New elements make this a
his helmet on.
and the zero-gravity sections different, more modern experience
have been streamlined – they’re next to the original, but the setting
less of a challenge now, but greatly remains fascinating – and yes, the
improve one notoriously tricky Necromorphs remain nightmarish.
asteroid section. As before, the Alan Wen

STUFF SAYS A solid and scary remake that really ramps up the body horror ++++,
81
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 Straight
outta testing
and into our
rankings.

NEW OF EVERYTHING
HOT
Time changes
everything,
BUY including Stuff
Top Ten entries.
BARGAIN
BUY
UPDATE
A product of
techy genius
that’s set our A proper steal.
hearts aflame. Worth owning
regardless of
cashflow.

Smartphones 84 Games 91
HOW
Headphones
Smartwatches,
fitness tech
85
86
Speakers
E-bikes,
electric cars
92
93 TO USE
Laptops
TVs
Soundbars,
87
88
89
Smart home
VR headsets,
drones & action cams
94
95 THEM
streamers Cameras 96
Tablets, consoles 90 Budget buys 97
TOP TENS SMARTPHONES 84

1 HOT
BUY

Apple iPhone 14
Pro Max
from £1199 / go.stuff.tv/14ProMax

TIPS & This is essentially the same phone as the

TRICKS 14 Pro, but with a bigger screen and a bigger
battery. So on paper it’s Apple’s best ever… but
The Dynamic Island while that justifies its promotion to top spot,
makes it easier to we should point out that it’s only worth it

O Prices quoted are for handset only unless otherwise stated

control a call: tap it for people who really need that extra screen
and hang up without space. Do you? Well, it does make photo, video
switching apps. and audio editing (and gaming) easier.

AirPods also show Stuff says +++++

up in the Island Really moves the Pro Max on… though
when connected, all this quality has a price
and you can see
their battery status.
O NOW ADD THIS
In Apple Maps, you Belkin BoostCharge Pro
can see turn-by-turn This solid MagSafe charging dock
directions overlaid lets you top up your iPhone, Apple
at the top of the Watch and AirPods.
phone’s screen. £140 / belkin.com

Samsung Galaxy S22 Ultra

+++++from £1149 / go.stuff.tv/s22ultra
The most fully-featured Android of the 2022 crop,
and a high bar for the S23 models (see p76) to clear.

Oppo Find X5 Pro

+++++£799 / go.stuff.tv/X5Pro
An absolute stunner of a smartphone, only let down
by limited zooming specs.

Motorola Edge 30 Ultra

+++++£750 / go.stuff.tv/30ultra
A rapid-charging powerhouse of a phone with
a superb set of cameras… for a tantalising price.

Google Pixel 6a
+++++£399 / go.stuff.tv/Pixel6a
The cut-price Pixel has a few rough edges, but its
cameras and slick software are simply excellent.

Sony Xperia 1 IV
OnePlus 11 Google Pixel 7 Pro +++++£1299 / go.stuff.tv/Xperia1iv
from £729 / go.stuff.tv/OnePlus11 from £849 / go.stuff.tv/Pixel7Pro Doubles down on the good stuff – but this is a
grown-up phone for skilled snappers only.
With rapid performance, a quality Streamlined styling, plentiful
display and capable cameras, performance and dependable
the OnePlus 11 makes no major battery life make this another BARGAIN
BUY Moto G82
compromises yet still manages worthy Google flagship. It’s a +++++£290 / go.stuff.tv/G82
to undercut the big guns. minor upgrade over the previous A long-lasting all-rounder that offers excellent
Photography remains a small effort but really impresses on the value for money.
step behind the best, but it makes photography front, with pin-sharp
up for that in other ways. zoom and great low-light shooting.
Honor Magic4 Pro
Stuff says +++++ Stuff says +++++ +++++£800 / go.stuff.tv/Magic4Pro
A semi-affordable phone that can Google plays it safe, but the Pixel 7 A stunning flagship at a great price point, though
pretty much do it all Pro improves in the right places there are better camera phones.

FOR UP-TO-DATE NEWS AND REVIEWS OF ALL THE BEST NEW PHONES, VISIT STUFF.TV/TOP-10/SMARTPHONES
 Beats Fit Pro Sennheiser Momentum 4
2 £220 / go.stuff.tv/FitPro
These Beats are excellent on many levels.
Unless you really love the earhook design
2 £300 / go.stuff.tv/SM4
These are headphones that sound
naturalistic, engaged and entirely musical,
of the Powerbeats Pro, they’re definitely the making every recording sound like an event.
best workout ’phones in the Apple/Beats And they’ll last a startling 60hrs – even with
range and rival any others at the price. ANC switched on.
Stuff says +++++ Stuff says +++++
Good battery life, punchy sound, lock-tight fit Great audio, great battery life, great price

Bose QuietComfort Earbuds II Bose NCH 700

3 £280 / go.stuff.tv/QCBuds2
You still can’t beat Bose for ANC. And while
its latest buds can be bettered slightly when
3 £279 / go.stuff.tv/NCH700
There are superior-sounding headphones,
but if call quality and noise-cancelling are
it comes to sound quality, and bettered just as important to you then Bose’s flagship
comfortably for battery life, they make cans are the gold standard. The voice-pickup
for a competitive total package. system is the best out there.
Stuff says +++++ Stuff says +++++
Bose is back with its best effort in a long while As all-rounders, these are hard to beat

Apple AirPods Pro (2nd Gen) Philips Fidelio L3

4 +++++£249 / go.stuff.tv/Pro2
Apple’s pricier in-ears were already superb,
and now they’re way better.
4 +++++£249 / go.stuff.tv/L3
Refined and detailed: go for these if you
value balance and accuracy.

Sennheiser Momentum True Wireless 3 Technics EAH-A800

5 +++++£220 / go.stuff.tv/TW3
Balanced and accurate – prepare to extend
your shortlist of premium in-ear headphones.
5 +++++£250 / go.stuff.tv/A800
These premium-priced ANC headphones
get almost everything right.

TO READ THE FULL REVIEWS, VISIT STUFF.TV/TOP-10/IN-EAR-HEADPHONES & STUFF.TV/TOP-10/HEADPHONES

 Garmin Fenix 7 Wattbike Atom
from £600 / go.stuff.tv/Fenix7 £2399 / go.stuff.tv/WBAtom
If your budget stretches, the impressive This is no beginner bike, but if you’re looking
mix of rugged durability, serious battery to improve your cycling form at home you’re
endurance, excellent navigation skills and in for a treat. Pedalling feels eerily real, and
smartwatch features makes this the best the improvements over the first-gen Atom
all-round sports watch you can buy. are significant.
Stuff says +++++ Stuff says +++++
An ace tool for adventurous fitness-building The benchmark for serious indoor cyclists

Samsung Galaxy Watch5 Pro Fitbit Charge 5

£479 / go.stuff.tv/Watch5Pro £99 / go.stuff.tv/Charge5
It carries a chunky price premium over the The Charge 5 gets a colour touchscreen
vanilla Galaxy Watch5, and doesn’t have (something the Charge 4 lacked) and goes
much in the way of added features, but the beyond basic tracking with clever features
Pro still makes a strong case for itself thanks centred on health and stress. It’s just a pity
to its more robust build and better battery. many are locked behind the Premium service.
Stuff says ++++, Stuff says ++++,
The toughest, longest-lasting Galaxy Watch yet A solid tracker with smart optional extras

Apple Watch Series 8 Huawei Watch GT Runner

++++,from £419 / go.stuff.tv/WatchS8 ++++,£180 / go.stuff.tv/GTRunner
A great smartwatch, but it’s only worth Has the looks and smarts to be a more than
upgrading if you have a Series 4 or older. capable jogging buddy.

Google Pixel Watch Philips Bone Conduction Headphones

++++,from £339 / go.stuff.tv/PixelWatch ++++,£90 / go.stuff.tv/PhilipsBone
A stylish wearable with solid fitness tracking, A satisfying way to fill your ears with sound,
but it falls short of its more established rivals. without actually filling your ears.

FOR THE FULL REVIEWS, VISIT STUFF.TV/TOP-10/SMARTWATCHES & STUFF.TV/TOP-10/FITNESS-TRACKERS

 87 LAPTOPS TOP TENS

1 HOT
BUY

Apple MacBook
Air (M2)
from £1249 / go.stuff.tv/AirM2

With its super-powered M2 processor, the

latest version of Apple’s ‘basic’ laptop leaves
the M1 model – an excellent machine in its
own right – in the dust. This revamp redefines
the Air in a meaningful way, instantly renders
TIPS & the 13in MacBook Pro obsolete, and sets a
TRICKS yardstick by which Apple’s entry-level devices
will now be judged.
If you can afford it,
the 512GB option Stuff says +++++
brings faster flash Shame about the price hike, but this is
storage (and more still the Mac to buy for most users
of it, of course).

Naturally the M2 Air O NOW ADD THIS

performs better than Belkin 4-Port GaN Charger 108W
the M1 version, but This brick lets you charge your Mac
that older model is laptop through its 96W USB-C output…
the value buy. while juicing up three other devices.
£80 / belkin.com

LG Gram 16
2 NEW 3 +++++ from £1199 / go.stuff.tv/Gram16
An incredible ultraportable that’s among the best
Windows has to offer, and with great battery life.

Dell XPS 13
+++++ from £949 / go.stuff.tv/XPS13
There’s little else that’s quite so well rounded…
but see also the beefier 13 Plus model.

Lenovo Yoga Slim 7i Pro Gen 7

+++++ from £896 / go.stuff.tv/7iPro
A solid performer that hits a price point and
misses the usual snags.

Apple MacBook Pro Asus Zenbook Pro 14 Alienware x17 R2

16in (2023) Duo OLED +++++ from £1799 / go.stuff.tv/x17
from £2699 / go.stuff.tv/Pro16 from £1500 / go.stuff.tv/DuoOLED Aimed at serious players, this machine glides
through games with all settings maxed.
Powered by either an M2 Pro or Clearly the Zenbook Pro 14 Duo
an M2 Max processor, the latest OLED is not for everyone – but it’s
MacBook Pro is a special machine… still an amazing piece of work with Huawei MateBook X Pro
and it shows that, if Apple’s chips a full-width second screen that +++++ from £1650 / go.stuff.tv/XPro
continue their trajectory, the rest really does make a huge difference This is a real powerhouse of a Windows laptop.
of the PC industry will struggle to productivity. If you spend all See also the equally slick MateBook 14s.
for some time to come. Debates your time in Premiere Pro, or have
about whether the Mac should worn down the alt-tab keys on
have a touchscreen or whether your current laptop, that extra Microsoft Surface Laptop 5
the iPad Pro should run macOS are display will be a gamechanger. ++++, from £999 / go.stuff.tv/Surf5
for another time, because what’s Performance is also superb, even Several things hold it back from greatness, but
on offer here is remarkable – if you if it needs to crank the cooling fans this is still one of the best ultraportables.
have the budget, it’s the ultimate to keep temperatures in check and
do-anything computer. battery life isn’t so stellar.
NEW HP Chromebook x2
Stuff says +++++ Stuff says +++++ ++++, £550 / go.stuff.tv/HPx2
If you’re looking for a productivity An innovative and powerful PC, A great showcase for what Chromebooks can
powerhouse, you’ve just found it despite some design compromises do, and a true hybrid.

FOR UP-TO-DATE NEWS AND FULL REVIEWS OF ALL THE BEST NEW LAPTOPS, VISIT STUFF.TV/TOP-10/LAPTOPS
TOP TENS TVs 88

1 HOT
BUY

Philips 55OLED907
£1799 / go.stuff.tv/OLED907

It’s no one’s idea of a bargain, but nevertheless

the 55OLED907 will be money well spent for
TIPS & even mild telly addicts. For once, here’s a TV
TRICKS with audio quality that truly matches its image
quality – and be in no doubt, the image quality
Google Assistant available here is very impressive indeed. The
wakes with a press Ambilight illuminations are as slick as ever too.
of the remote; Alexa Resign yourself to a long stint sorting out the
users can use a initial setup (as is always the way with Philips)
linked smart speaker. and you’ll never look back.

The picture menus Stuff says +++++

are extensive, but well A great OLED TV with impressive
worth a visit to rein brightness and top-class audio
in the motion control
and noise reduction.
O NOW ADD THIS
Only two of the Apple TV 4K
HDMI ports are at Fills the one hole in Android TV’s
2.1 standard, so check streaming lineup, and is a must if
before plugging in you’re all-in with Apple’s other tech.
your games console. from £149 / apple.com

LG OLED77G2
2 3 +++++ £3799 / go.stuff.tv/G2
LG’s flagship is just about the best OLED on the
market, but for a pretty penny.

B Xiaomi TV F2 55in
+++++ £491 / go.stuff.tv/XiaomiF2
If you’re a fan of Amazon’s interface, you’ll be
happy to Fire up this 4K HDR bargain.

B Samsung 50AU9000
+++++ £479 / go.stuff.tv/AU9000
As much TV as most people will ever need, and
at a reasonable price.

Sony XR-55A95K Philips 55OLED807 Sony KE-48A9

£2199 / go.stuff.tv/A95K £1298 / go.stuff.tv/OLED807 +++++ £999 / go.stuff.tv/KE48A9
Don’t be fooled by its relatively small size: the A9
Samsung developed QD-OLED Despite its affordability, the is a real smasher of a 4K OLED.
to address the one shortcoming 55OLED807 is a nicely designed,
of OLED – a relative lack of well turned-out television that
brightness – yet it’s Sony shows no signs of having been built B Hisense A7200G
that leads the pack now. This down to a price. Most importantly +++++ £299 / go.stuff.tv/A7200G
QD-OLED set doesn’t come of all, it offers great picture quality This 50in budget buy is a perfectly good way to
cheap, but its performance makes in almost every circumstance, get a biggish screen at a little price.
the price look fair enough. In every while the four-sided Ambilight
respect – colour balance, motion integrated into the rear works an
control, detail – it performs absolute treat – whatever you’re Sony XR-55A80K
impeccably. It’s a brilliantly watching looks larger and more ++++, £1499 / go.stuff.tv/A80K
naturalistic and lifelike watch, immersive, and eye-strain is Endlessly watchable 4K HDR images, but this
with the deep, varied black reduced too. The only thing we isn’t quite the perfect package.
tones that are one of the real don’t like is Philips’ obsession with
OLED trademarks. over-complicated setup menus.
Sky Glass
Stuff says +++++ Stuff says +++++ ++++, £699 / go.stuff.tv/SkyGlass
QD-OLED technology is here, and This is Philips throwing the The future of Sky is here… but probably not if
on this evidence it’s the real deal mid-range OLED gauntlet down you have a decent 4K television already.

FOR UP-TO-DATE NEWS AND FULL REVIEWS OF ALL THE BEST NEW TELEVISIONS, VISIT STUFF.TV/TOP-10/TVs
 Sonos Arc Amazon Fire TV Stick 4K
2 £899 / go.stuff.tv/SonosArc
Don’t expect this soundbar to do everything
a multi-speaker Dolby Atmos setup can
2 £50 / go.stuff.tv/FireStick4K
This streaming stick offers 4K plus a faster
processor than the original Fire TV Stick,
do, but its up-firing and side-firing drivers and comes with an Alexa remote… but see
give a real sense of cinematic scale. See also also the Max model below, and the cheaper
the much more affordable Ray model. non-4K version.
Stuff says +++++ Stuff says +++++
Big-screen sound for your big-screen binges Simply a great 4K streaming stick

BARGAIN
BUY Roku Streambar Roku Express 4K
3 £130 / go.stuff.tv/Streambar
It’s a compact soundbar and a versatile
streaming stick in the same box – and both
3 £30 / go.stuff.tv/Express4K
Powered by the user-friendly Roku OS and
offering all the streaming services you’d
parts of the deal work brilliantly well. This is expect, this compellingly versatile yet
the simplest and cheapest way to upgrade surprisingly affordable 4K receiver sits
your TV’s sound and smarts in one go. discreetly below your telly.
Stuff says +++++ Stuff says +++++
A punchy little bar with built-in streaming skills The best-value streaming device you can buy

Sonos Beam (Gen 2) Chromecast with Google TV

4 +++++£499 / go.stuff.tv/SonosBeam
The addition of Dolby Atmos has made an
excellent compact soundbar even better.
4 +++++from £35 / go.stuff.tv/ChromecastTV
A solid buy if you like Google’s casting tricks
but also want all your TV apps in one place.

Devialet Dione Amazon Fire TV Stick 4K Max

5 +++++£2000 / go.stuff.tv/Dione
Striking looks, awesome power: it’s Devialet
business as (un)usual.
5 ++++,£55 / go.stuff.tv/Fire4KMax
The ‘Max’ part means faster insides, Wi-Fi 6
support and a remote with more buttons.

FOR FULL REVIEWS OF ALL THE PRODUCTS IN OUR TOP TEN LISTINGS, VISIT STUFF.TV/TOP-10
TOP TENS TABLETS 90 CONSOLES TOP TENS

1 HOT
BUY
1 HOT
BUY

Apple iPad Air

from £669 / go.stuff.tv/iPadAir
Sony PlayStation 5
£480 / go.stuff.tv/PS5

This tablet has enough power to rival the flagship iPad Pro – and The PS5 is not a modest upgrade. Its hulking design means it’ll
even quite a few current MacBooks. And though you might need make a bad first impression on some, but spend time playing it
to add a keyboard, a stylus and even a gamepad to make the most and it’ll soon win you over – and then some. This is essentially a
of it, the latest Air reinforces the growing sense that an iPad really high-spec gaming PC for the living room: stupendously powerful,
can be a laptop replacement for doing proper work (or play). Slight with greatly reduced loading times compared to the PS4. Most
storage dilemmas aside, this is a top-notch device, supported by last-gen titles will run fine and the lineup of new games is strong,
an ecosystem that makes it highly versatile for an increasingly while developers have found increasingly clever ways to use that
wide range of users. DualSense pad and its haptic feedback trickery.

Stuff says +++++ Stuff says +++++

It’s not perfect, but this latest iPad Air is a top-quality Huge power, clever hardware and a guarantee of great
package – not least because of that M1 chip games to come make the PS5 hard to resist

Apple iPad Pro Nintendo Switch OLED

from £899 / go.stuff.tv/ProM2 £310 / go.stuff.tv/SwitchOLED
There’s so much you can do with this While it’s identical to the standard Switch in
stunningly powerful tablet. The only snag terms of raw power, the OLED model does
is, you do need to buy the Magic Keyboard move things on with its bigger, better display.
and Apple Pencil to really make it fly – and If you’re looking to buy a Switch for the first
that pushes up an already high price. time, this one is well worth the extra cash.
Stuff says +++++ Stuff says ++++,
M2 power makes the Pro better than ever A tempting upgrade from the trusty old Switch

Samsung Galaxy Tab S8 Ultra Microsoft Xbox Series X

from £1199 / go.stuff.tv/S8Ultra £450 / go.stuff.tv/XSX
Its sheer size might make it a bit niche, but A fully future-proofed machine that doesn’t
this Galaxy Tab is perfect for watching films, scrimp on specs or speed, the Series X just
playing games, reading text and taking notes wants more exclusive titles to make it sing.
with the bundled S Pen. Add DeX, and this is Xbox Game Pass remains pretty much the
the best Android tab money can buy. best streamed offering in gaming.
Stuff says +++++ Stuff says ++++,
Samsung has made the ultimate Android tablet A beast of a console that needs more games

Xiaomi Pad 5 Valve Steam Deck

+++++ from £329 / go.stuff.tv/Pad5 ++++,from £349 / go.stuff.tv/SteamDeck
Xiaomi’s do-it-all Android tab is a proper Battery life is a worry, but this do-anything
all-round bargain. device could revolutionise PC gaming.

Apple iPad Microsoft Xbox Series S

+++++ from £499 / go.stuff.tv/iPad10 ++++,£250 / go.stuff.tv/XSS
A much-needed and mostly excellent Delivers affordability without sacrificing key
reworking of Apple’s entry-level tablet. features, but still falls short on new titles.

FOR FULL REVIEWS, VISIT STUFF.TV/TOP-10/TABLETS & STUFF.TV/TOP-10/GAMES-MACHINES

 91 GAMES TOP TENS

1 HOT
BUY

Elden Ring
from £35 / PS5, PS4, XSX, XB1, PC

With FromSoftware’s trademark difficulty and

a richly imaginative world that doesn’t hold your
hand, this ambitious action RPG is a crowning
TIPS & achievement. There’s so much to lose yourself
TRICKS in here: lore hunters will have a field day
combing through the world’s mythology;
Sprinting doesn’t speedrunners and those who thrive on
consume stamina… challenge will relish figuring out the best
until you get close weapons to use and where to find them.
to an enemy, when Even for most of us mere mortals, Elden Ring
it suddenly does! is an event: an invitation to greatness.

Weapons are key: Stuff says +++++

you need to improve Majestic and daunting, this is like no
them whenever you other open-world action RPG
can. A good melee
weapon is a must.
O OR PLAY THIS
A hub called the The Legend of Zelda:
Roundtable Hold Breath of the Wild
enables you to visit This adventure-filled open-world
characters who can masterpiece might be almost six
offer gear upgrades. years old now, but it’s still brilliant.
£45 / Switch

Marvel’s Midnight Suns

2 3 4 +++++ from £43 / PS5, PS4, XSX, XB1, PC
An excellent tactical RPG and superhero
friendship simulator.

Return to Monkey Island

5 +++++ from £15 / PS5, PC
A delightful, laugh-out-loud return to a pirate
adventure classic.

Deathloop
6 +++++ from £13 / PS5, PC
Meaty combat, organic exploration and lots of
ingenious puzzles: pretty much flawless.

Halo Infinite
7 +++++ from £27 / XSX, XB1, PC
The best Halo since the original trilogy – and
it’s included with Game Pass.

The Last of Us Part I

God of War Ragnarok Hades
£55 / PS5, PS4 from £10 / all platforms
8 +++++ from £36 / PS5, PC
Easily the best way to play – or replay – one
of the greatest games ever made.
It may not break new ground, but Just when you think you’ve seen
with satisfying, expansive and all this hellish roguelite has to offer,
challenging gameplay, as well as a new tweak yanks you out of Forza Horizon 5
deep storytelling and fascinating
characters in search of a future
beyond the end of the world, this
your comfort zone. It quickly
becomes very addictive… and
even if you’ll have to face numerous
9 +++++ from £29 / XSX, XB1, PC
This stunning fifth venture into the Horizon is
the pinnacle of open-world racing.
sets an astoundingly high bar for setbacks, few games make you
other AAA blockbusters. feel so godly.
It Takes Two
Stuff says +++++
Bigger and better in every way,
Ragnarok deserves godlike status
Stuff says +++++
Great even if you don’t like roguelites
…and if you do, it’s the best there is
10 +++++ from £24 / PS5, PS4, XSX, XB1, PC
A masterful co-op experience that will live long
in the memory.

FOR UP-TO-DATE NEWS AND REVIEWS OF ALL THE BEST NEW GAMES, VISIT STUFF.TV/TOP-10/GAMES
TOP TENS SPEAKERS 92

TIPS &
TRICKS
You can control your
Move with the touch
controls on top, the
Sonos app, Google
Auto Trueplay adapts
the Move’s sound
to different rooms,
while the app offers
1 HOT
BUY

Assistant or Alexa. additional EQ tweaks. Sonos Move

£399 / go.stuff.tv/SonosMove

The Sonos range of wireless speakers had been

crying out for a battery-powered portable model
for ages – and finally our favourite multiroom
audio specialist caved in. Luckily, the Move was
worth the wait. Its adaptability and sound quality
mean it’s fine value for money, and a no-brainer
for anyone who’s already a fan of the brand.
This is the speaker Sonos should have launched
years ago – and for even better portability, see
the Roam model at No4 on this list.

Stuff says +++++

Sonos finally gets up to speed with the
portable speaker craze, and in style

O NOW ADD THIS

YouTube Music Premium
If you’d like a side of optional visuals
with your audio, look no further than
the ad-free tier of YouTube Music.
£9.99/m / music.youtube.com

Sonos Roam
2 3 +++++ £179 / go.stuff.tv/SonosRoam
There are better-sounding sub-£200 speakers,
but none with the Roam’s portable skills.

Naim Mu-so 2nd Generation

+++++ £1299 / go.stuff.tv/Mu-so2
More than capable of maintaining Naim’s position
at the front of the luxury hi-fi pack.

Audio Pro C10 MkII

+++++ £318 / go.stuff.tv/C10Mk2
Ideal for multiroom systems – there’s nothing
else that sounds this good at this price.

Sonos One Bowers & Wilkins Zeppelin Devialet Phantom 1 108dB

£199 / go.stuff.tv/SonosOne £699 / go.stuff.tv/Zeppelin +++++ £2800 each / go.stuff.tv/Phantom1
An insanely powerful lump of hi-fi magic, best
The Sonos One is now a more No, the latest Zeppelin doesn’t enjoyed in a neighbour-terrifying stereo pair.
well-rounded device than it was quite give the widely separated
at launch, supporting Spotify with stereo sound it reckons it can.
Alexa or Google Assistant voice And no, that downward-facing JBL Charge 5
control as well as Amazon Music ‘ambient’ light doesn’t serve much +++++ £110 / go.stuff.tv/JBLCharge5
and TuneIn Radio, while the early of a purpose, while the absence A no-nonsense portable speaker for audio fans
Alexa hiccups seem to have been of an HDMI input is perplexing. who won’t settle for a sonic lightweight.
fixed. Sound quality is a cut above But in every other respect this
pretty much anything else at this is a deeply impressive wireless
price point with the exception of speaker. There’s no clever DSP Q Acoustics M20
Amazon’s Echo Studio, but that magic, just excellent sound with +++++ £399 (pair) / go.stuff.tv/QM20
speaker can’t beat this one’s lovely a stack of music-making talent Hi-res sound from multiple sources, with none
design and ease of setup. Plus it and a control app that helps rather of the compromises the price suggests.
won’t force you to commit to one than hinders. It’s basically the
ecosystem ’til death do you part… complete package.
Apple HomePod (2023)
Stuff says +++++ Stuff says +++++ ++++, £299 / go.stuff.tv/HomePod
A great balance of sound and smarts Supremely enjoyable hi-fi sound in The latest HomePod is an all-round improvement,
for forward-thinking audio nerds a supremely large package but Siri still lags behind.

FOR UP-TO-DATE NEWS AND REVIEWS OF ALL THE BEST NEW HI-FI, VISIT STUFF.TV/TOP-10/HI-FI-STREAMING
TOP TENS E-BIKES 93 ELECTRIC CARS TOP TENS

1 HOT
BUY
1 HOT
BUY

VanMoof S3
£2248 / go.stuff.tv/VanMoofS3
Kia EV6
from £45,245 / go.stuff.tv/EV6

VanMoof’s second-gen S3 (or X3 if you’re under 5ft 8in) looks like This Korean crossover arrived with a properly head-turning design
a normal bike, rides like a normal bike and, crucially, doesn’t cost and a roomy cabin packed with tech features, including dynamic
a ridiculous amount of cash. The chunky 50mm tyres, slightly AR navigation graphics that make it virtually impossible to go
swooped bars and upright riding position all combine to make the wrong way. It’ll manage up to 300 miles on a charge and can
it super-comfy, and 30 miles with the power assistance set to handle a heady 350kW when it’s time to plug in, so you’ll only need
level three (out of four) left us completely sweat-free with 20% a 20min pitstop before you can get back out on the road. Everyday
still in the tank. Plus, for such a looker, the S3 has a lot of discreet driving is a real treat, thanks to a refined ride and light steering, but
smarts to deter thieves. See also the ultra-techy S5 model. it also impresses through the twisty bits.
Stuff says +++++ Stuff says +++++
This smart-looking e-bike offers a great ride, great A fantastic family-focused EV, with so many features
features and some genuinely useful security smarts you’ll be making excuses to go for a drive on your own

Cowboy 4 BMW i4
2 £2590 / go.stuff.tv/Cowboy4
The Belgian maker’s latest model has 50%
more torque than its predecessor, but the
2 from £56,185 / go.stuff.tv/i4
The i4 makes a lot of sense if you want a
no-nonsense fully electric BMW but still
slinky profile and simple interface with GPS prefer the look and feel of a petrol car. Even
remain… and there’s also an equally excellent the entry-level spec provides more than
step-through version, the 4 ST. enough thrills to keep most people happy.
Stuff says +++++ Stuff says +++++
Smoothly integrated e-power at a good price A great way to enter the world of electric cars

LeMond Prolog Porsche Taycan

3 £4205 / go.stuff.tv/Prolog
From multiple Tour de France winner and
world road race champion Greg LeMond, the
3 from £75,500 / go.stuff.tv/Taycan
It was about time someone took the fight
to Tesla, and boy has Porsche delivered with
Prolog is an all-carbon commute-crushing the Taycan. This four-door saloon is the EV
machine that doesn’t really look like it has that petrolheads have been waiting for, with
a motor or a battery at all. a dynamism that can’t be matched.
Stuff says +++++ Stuff says +++++
If you want gears and lightness, it’s worth it Power, handling, tech: the most exciting EV yet

Ribble Endurance SL e Pro Audi Q4 E-tron

4 +++++from £5199 / go.stuff.tv/Endurance
Super-light and a great bike on its own – the
motor is just the icing on the hilly cake.
4 +++++from £50,625 / go.stuff.tv/Q4Etron
A smart and highly practical car, this is the
best all-round electric SUV we’ve driven.

Gocycle G4i Polestar 2

5 +++++£4499 / go.stuff.tv/G4i
This folding e-bike is silky-smooth, super-fast
and splendidly futuristic… for a price.
5 +++++from £44,950 / go.stuff.tv/Polestar2
This handsome five-door saloon is perky and
fun to throw around corners.

FOR FULL REVIEWS OF ALL THESE GADGETS, AND TO EXPLORE MORE TOP TEN LISTS, VISIT STUFF.TV/TOP-10
TOP TENS SMART HOME 94

1 HOT
BUY

Amazon Echo
(4th Gen)
£90 / go.stuff.tv/Echo

Having morphed from a cylinder to a sphere,

TIPS & the latest Echo is an excellent newsreader,
TRICKS weather forecaster, personal assistant and
intercom straight out of the box; but it’s now
The Echo’s built-in also a capable speaker and a very accessible
Zigbee hub can hook smart home hub. It doesn’t sound as good
up hundreds of as the Sonos One for listening to music, but
smart home devices it’s significantly smarter and considerably
without a bridge. cheaper too.

Pair a compatible Stuff says +++++

thermostat and the An all-round upgrade that makes the
Echo’s temperature Echo a smarter speaker than ever
sensor can activate
the heating.
O NOW ADD THIS
Alexa Flash Briefings Honeywell T6R
deliver bursts of This Zigbee-enabled thermostat
news or trivia; is wireless so you can place it
choose from 5000 where it’s most convenient.
sources in the app. £144 / cityplumbing.co.uk

Ring Indoor Cam

2 3 4 +++++£50 / go.stuff.tv/RingIndoor
This cute little spy-cam is a bona fide bargain for
anyone with security worries.

Nest Learning Thermostat

5 +++++£219 / go.stuff.tv/NestTherm
A simple and mess-free smart thermostat with
Alexa compatibility.

Amazon Echo Show 15

6 +++++£240 / go.stuff.tv/EchoShow15
Amazon’s smart display has come of age – this
is easily the best Show in town.

Amazon Echo Dot (5th Gen) Google Nest Mini Philips Hue Starter Kit
from £55 / go.stuff.tv/Dot5 £49 / go.stuff.tv/NestMini

The latest Dot offers improved If you live in Google’s world (and
7 +++++from £70 / go.stuff.tv/Hue
Become an indoor god with the smartest way
of lighting up your home remotely.
sound quality over the 4th Gen let’s face it, most of us do) then
model. Not surprisingly given its the Nest Mini is the best, cheapest
size, it still doesn’t have the heft way to get into the smart home Dyson V15 Detect Absolute
of a full-scale Echo, but this Dot is
more than good enough for bedside
table or kitchen listening – and light
game. Just like the latest Echo
Dot, this latest version features
upgraded speakers and mics
8 +++++£630 / go.stuff.tv/V15Absolute
Ludicrous but brilliant: a vacuum cleaner that
illuminates your dust particles with a laser.
years away from the lame sound compared to older models. It’s
of the early models. Be sure to a slightly better bet than the Echo
consider the £65 ‘with Clock’ Dot with Clock if you want close Ring Intercom
version, which offers a better and
much more useful LED display than
the previous model – you can now
integration with your Google
calendar and apps. The only
reason not to buy is if you want
9 +++++£120 / go.stuff.tv/RingIntercom
Great news for people in flats, making it easier to
receive packages and give access remotely.
see things like basic weather info more powerful audio – for that,
and song titles. get the Google Nest Audio instead.
Nest Doorbell (Battery)
Stuff says +++++
The 5th Gen brings a nice upgrade
to an already excellent little gadget
Stuff says +++++
Louder and cleverer than ever… and
it’ll only improve with updates
10 ++++,£180 / go.stuff.tv/NestDoorbell
A simple gadget that makes it easy to answer
the door when you can’t answer the door.

FOR FULL REVIEWS OF THE BEST SMART HOME DEVICES, VISIT STUFF.TV/TOP-10/SMART-HOME-DEVICES
TOP TENS VR HEADSETS 95 DRONES & ACTION CAMS TOP TENS

1 HOT
BUY
1 HOT
BUY

Meta Quest 2
£399 / go.stuff.tv/Quest2
GoPro Hero11 Black
£350 / go.stuff.tv/Hero11

The original Quest felt almost too good to be true. Its successor The Hero11 Black introduces a sensor with an almost square 8:7
lacks the same wow factor, but you can’t argue with a better aspect ratio, capturing footage that can be losslessly cropped
display and processor – not to mention a lighter, more comfy at high quality for YouTube, Instagram, TikTok or whatever other
build – and the fantastic Beat Saber now thrown in. Are there format you want. That aside, the design is practically identical to
more powerful headsets? Is motion sickness still an issue? Yes its predecessor – so it’s still compatible with almost all existing
to both, but superb tracking and a total absence of wires make accessories. Most importantly, its lightweight build is just as
this the VR package to get… and you no longer have to be logged durable as past GoPros, and with HyperSmooth stabilisation
in to Facebook to use it. See also the Pro model tested on p56. you can expect footage with best-in-class smoothness.

Stuff says +++++ Stuff says +++++

Not a complete reinvention, but our favourite VR An innovative and powerful camera that’s good for
headset is now even better… and cheaper! creators and adventurers alike

Valve Index DJI Air 2S

£919 / go.stuff.tv/ValveIndex £769 / go.stuff.tv/Air2S
While not revolutionary, the Index carries DJI’s laurels remain assuredly un-rested-upon,
enough subtle upgrades to put it atop the and this may be its best drone yet: an almost
PC-based headset pack. Everything looks perfect balance of portability, performance
fabulous and the controllers deliver the most and price, ideal for novices but still able to
fluid-feeling VR interactions to date. produce nigh-on pro-level results.
Stuff says ++++, Stuff says +++++
The best of the performance-PC VR options The best all-round camera drone on the market

HTC Vive Pro DJI Mini 3 Pro

£449 (headset only) / go.stuff.tv/VivePro £709 / go.stuff.tv/Mini3Pro
No longer the top dog for high-end VR using Like the old Mini 2, this little quadcopter is
a PC, the Vive Pro – launched way back in light enough to avoid having to be registered
2018 – remains a strong headset thanks to with the CAA yet still grabs stellar aerial
its crisp screens and comfy fit. But see also video. See also the new non-Pro version,
the upgraded Pro 2 model. tested on p57 of this issue.
Stuff says ++++, Stuff says +++++
Impressive, but not the best around any more DJI’s dinky drone produces great images

Pico 4 DJI Mavic 3

++++,from £379 / go.stuff.tv/Pico4 +++++£1729 / go.stuff.tv/Mavic3
A nice-priced headset with sharp resolution, It isn’t cheap, but DJI’s stunning flagship
but Meta has the edge for big exclusives. raises the bar for foldable flying cameras.

PlayStation VR Insta360 One RS 1-Inch 360 Edition

+++,,£300 / go.stuff.tv/PSVR ++++,£810 / go.stuff.tv/360Edition
See ya, PSVR – you won’t be missed much. Huge 1in sensors make this the best 360°
The new one’s reviewed on p29… cam you can get for image quality.

FOR FULL REVIEWS, AND TO EXPLORE MORE OF THE STUFF TOP TEN LISTS, VISIT STUFF.TV/TOP-10
TOP TENS CAMERAS 96

1 HOT
BUY

Fujifilm X-T5
£1699 / go.stuff.tv/XT5

Fujifilm’s most popular compact system camera

gets a sensor upgrade while keeping up tradition
TIPS & everywhere else. This means you’re getting
TRICKS

O System camera prices quoted are for body only unless otherwise stated
identical stills performance to the more modern
X-H2, while retaining the old X-T4’s dials and
It’s easy to set up the compact dimensions – making the X-T5 the
X-T5’s customisable sweet spot of Fuji’s lineup, and a top all-rounder.
Q button: just hold it The sensor is even better at low-light shooting
down for a couple of than before, and the wide choice of lenses means
seconds for options. everyone will find something to like.

Give your pics a Stuff says +++++

retro vibe with film Slick modern internals meet the manual
simulations, which controls loved by Fuji diehards
mimic the look of
classic 35mm shots.
O NOW ADD THIS
Fuji’s free Pixel Shift Fujifilm XF 16-80mm f/4
Combiner software This versatile lens covers a bigger
merges multiple zoom range than most and adapts
RAW snaps into giant to pretty much any requirements.
400MP images. £699 / wexphotovideo.com

Sony A7C
2 3 +++++£1699 / go.stuff.tv/A7C
Superb quality and full-frame goodness from
a half-pint camera.

Nikon D780
+++++£2099 / go.stuff.tv/D780
An all-round DSLR that’s built like a tank and
borrows the best tricks of its mirrorless siblings.

Canon EOS R6
+++++£1899 / go.stuff.tv/EOSR6
With its low-light-friendly specs, the R6 all but
guarantees sharp shots in any conditions.

Sony A7 IV Canon EOS R7 Fujifilm X-H2S

£2399 / go.stuff.tv/A7iv £1349 / go.stuff.tv/EOSR7 +++++£2399 / go.stuff.tv/XH2S
This ace all-rounder offers 40fps burst shooting,
The A7 series might be marketed The R7 is quick enough to excel exceptional autofocus… and wonderful stills.
as Sony’s ‘basic’ full-frame at sport and wildlife shooting, and
E-mount camera, but it’s now delivers excellent image quality
become a premium model in its and consistent battery life in a Canon EOS RP
own right. The A7 III proved very body that’s small and light enough +++++£1050 / go.stuff.tv/EOSRP
popular with content creators, to take just about anywhere. The A full-frame mirrorless marvel that’s light enough
delivering both strong 4K video only real black mark, aside from to not be a burden and offers top picture quality.
and ace stills; the A7 IV takes things a relatively low-resolution EVF, is
further with even better image the lack of lens options compared
quality, improved performance to the likes of Sony’s E-mount Sony A1
and a host of thoughtful design series and Fuji’s X-mount. But +++++£5879 / go.stuff.tv/A1
touches. It’s pricey compared to if you’re in it for the long haul There are better options for specialists, but this is
some APS-C and Micro Four Thirds and don’t mind waiting for more the ultimate no-compromise all-round camera.
options, but there’s a lot going on choices to come along, this is
here for the money. a fine choice.
Panasonic Lumix GH6
Stuff says +++++ Stuff says +++++ +++++£1949 / go.stuff.tv/GH6
Sony’s mirrorless all-rounder delivers A mid-ranger with speed, image This superb Micro Four Thirds camera is easily
premium-quality stills and video quality and handling on its side Panasonic’s best mirrorless yet for video.

FOR FULL REVIEWS OF ALL THE BEST NEW CAMERAS, VISIT STUFF.TV/TOP-10/SYSTEM-CAMERAS
 97 BUDGET BUYS TOP TENS

1 HOT
BUY

Amazon Echo Dot

TIPS & (5th Gen)
TRICKS from £55 / go.stuff.tv/Dot5

Fed up of yelling? The latest Dot offers improved sound quality

Alexa’s voice can over the 4th Gen model. Not surprisingly given
work like an intercom its size, it still doesn’t have the heft of a full-scale
with connected Echo, but this Dot is more than good enough
Echo devices. for bedside table or kitchen listening – and light
years away from the lame sound of the early
Alexa Voice models. Be sure to consider the £65 ‘with Clock’
Shopping lets you version, which offers a better and much more
order from Amazon; useful LED display than the previous model.
add a ‘voice code’ to
keep the kids off. Stuff says +++++
The 5th Gen brings a nice upgrade to
Dot at your bedside? an already excellent little gadget
Saying “Alexa, turn
on whisper mode”
will stop it waking O NOW ADD THIS
up sleepyheads. Sportlink Wall Mount
This mount for the Dot (and other
small speakers) will keep it clear
from wet kitchen surfaces.
£19 / amazon.co.uk

SanDisk Extreme 1TB

4 +++++£110 / go.stuff.tv/Extreme1TB
A rugged little SSD for those who don’t just
need a drive to dump next to their desktop.

Raspberry Pi 400 Kit

5 +++++£105 / go.stuff.tv/Pi400
This DIY PC kit is a superb gadget for hacking
around and exploring computing’s past.

Razer Kishi V2
6 +++++ £100 / go.stuff.tv/Kishi2
This compact device is a sleek (if pricey) way to
turn your phone into a games console.

Microsoft Xbox Amazon Kindle (2022) Evercade EXP

Wireless Headset £95 / go.stuff.tv/Kindle
£90 / go.stuff.tv/XboxHeadset
The basic Kindle gets its first
7 ++++,£130 / go.stuff.tv/EXP
A hymn to gaming’s past and a big improvement
over the original Evercade handheld console.
With their chunky earpads, these update for three years – and
black cans are unmistakably Xbox. jumps into the water alongside
And the sound is impressive for the interesting new Kindle Scribe. Poco M4 Pro
the price, with a low-end response
so impactful we had to turn down
the bass in the Xbox’s EQ app. You
It’s the same size as before
at 6in, but slightly lighter; and
the wonderful display now has
8 ++++,£249 / go.stuff.tv/M4Pro
Skips a few luxuries, but still a seriously good
Android phone for the price.
might find yourself wishing for a higher resolution (300dpi),
some sort of multifunction button while there are also upgrades
for non-gaming use (and there’s no to battery life and storage. The Beurer TL50
case, suggesting Microsoft expects
you to keep it in the house). But if
you like the sound of keeping your
latter goes up to 16GB from 8GB,
but the stamina improvement
is better still: an impressive six
9 ++++,£80 / go.stuff.tv/TL50
A beautifully designed anti-SAD lamp that
doesn’t cost the earth.
Xbox headset outlay below three weeks instead of four. This is a
figures, look no further. great sub-£100 e-reader.
UE Wonderboom 3
Stuff says +++++
Yes, you really can bag a decent
gaming headset for under £100
Stuff says +++++
Some nice improvements make the
latest entry-level Kindle a doozy
10 ++++,£90 / go.stuff.tv/WB3
Showing its age at version 3, but still one of the
best compact Bluetooth speakers around.

FOR FULL REVIEWS OF ALL THESE GADGETS, AND TO EXPLORE MORE TOP TEN LISTS, VISIT STUFF.TV/TOP-10
 Yes sir,
icon boogie
The invader design
became videogame
shorthand, even popping
up in emoji. Now that
surely wouldn’t have
happened with a
pixelated tank.

RANDOM ACCESS MEMORIES 1978

Space Invaders
hy was this game called Space Sorry, what? But it’s so basic. Were people Alright, get a grip. You wouldn’t want to play

W Invaders when it looks like you’re

shooting squid?
Octopuses, actually – well, at least
really that bored back in 1978?
It’s easy to forget how revolutionary this
game was. It dropped timers – then popular
it now, though, would you?
You kind of have to by default, because Space
Invaders DNA runs through shooters from
the main invader. Keen to make a game to in shooting games – in favour of a lives Galaxian and Defender to modern Japanese
surpass Breakout, Space Invaders creator system. You could lurk behind destructible bullet-hell efforts. Its sequels impressed too,
Tomohiro Nishikado hit upon the player shields. And a processor quirk meant the such as the high-octane Extreme and the
taking on legions of tanks. Sadly they looked game sped up as you downed invaders. Then artsy Infinity Gene, with its journey through
rubbish, so he switched them for people. But there was the ‘music’. Earlier games offered the evolution of a genre (played out to
[ Words Craig Grannell ]

managers were nervous about gamers killing the odd jingle, but Space Invaders played an thumping techno beats). Yet even the original
humans – how times change! – so, inspired ominous four-note loop alongside shots and remains tense, strategic and far more than
by The War of the Worlds, Nishikado settled explosions. The tempo increased with that an artefact – as dismissive modern gamers
on blasting alien sea life instead… and laid the of the game, coming across like a heartbeat might realise on discovering they can’t get
foundations for a $4bn smash hit. and matching the tension as it ratcheted up. through a few levels without losing a life.

DON’T MISS THE NEXT ISSUE! ON SALE 14 APR

All-in-One Wall Light
and Camera

Day-and-night protection of your home with a 2K

HD camera, a powerful 1200-lumen light, motion
detection, and adjustable colour and brightness.

£149.99 available at
Launching at the end of February

uk.eufy.com
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