Remember when the “wearable tech” debate was just choosing between a clunky rubber fitness band and a chunky plastic smartwatch? Well, things have gotten a lot more stylish, but a lot more complicated. We’ve officially entered the era of the secret agent wearable. On one wrist, you have the powerful, screen-toting mini-computer that is the modern smartwatch. On the finger, you have the minimalist, ultra-discreet new contender: the smart ring.
The ring is trending hard right now because it’s stealthy and seriously good at tracking what matters most—especially sleep. But can that tiny piece of tech really go toe-to-toe with a full-blown wrist device that has a screen, GPS, and a dozen apps? We’re putting these two tech titans head-to-head in the ultimate smart ring versus smartwatch showdown! The real winner here isn’t the device that has the most features; it’s the one that best fits your lifestyle. Let’s figure out which one you should be rocking.
Overview
Before we get into it, we need to understand what these two wearables are for those who are not fully familiar with them.
So what exactly is a smartwatch? It’s simply a miniature computer that you wear on your wrist. It’s usually round or square that looks very similar to a normal watch. Its key features are: it has a display that shows everything from the time and weather to full text messages and emails.It acts as a direct, interactive extension of your smartphone.
It’s primarily used for those who are living a healthy, active lifestyle. Smartwatches provide real-time data, GPS for workouts, mobile payments, apps, and full, two-way notifications. They are an “all-in-one” device. Here are a few popular examples of common smartwatches: Apple Watch, Samsung Galaxy Watch, Google Pixel Watch, to name a few.
Next is the smart ring. What is it? Well, it’s a small, lightweight, and screen-free band worn on the finger, designed to look like normal jewellery. The key main features are that it comes with tiny sensors inside to continuously monitor your body.It has no screen; however, all data and insights are delivered to a companion app installed on your smartphone.
It excels as a passive, 24/7 data collection, especially useful for sleep, recovery, and resting vital signs (like Heart Rate Variability and body temperature), because they are extremely comfortable to wear overnight. Popular smart ring brands to look out for are the Oura Ring, Ultrahuman Ring, and Samsung Galaxy Ring, to name a few.
Smart Ring versus Smartwatch: Pros and Cons
1. The Smart Ring
REASONS TO BUY
Tiny, lightweight, and looks like jewellery
More consistent, accurate data on sleep stages, HRV, and body temperature
Lasts 4 to 7 days on a single charge
No buzzing notifications interrupting your life or sleep
REASON TO AVOID
Need a phone to check the app to see your stats (pace, heart rate, etc.) during a workout
No built-in GPS, no calling/texting, and fewer apps or payment options (for now)
It can get scratched or scuffed more easily during heavy lifting or manual labor
Requires a monthly fee to unlock the best insights and health data features
2. The Smartwatch
REASONS TO BUY
Comes with built-in GPS, cellular options, music storage, and a huge selection of apps
The screen is essential for seeing your running pace, checking texts, and controlling music instantly
Offers features like on-demand ECG, fall detection, and emergency SOS services
Contactless payments via Apple Pay or Google Wallet are quick and universally supported
REASON TO AVOID
Needs to be charged every 1–2 days, often interrupting overnight tracking
Constant buzzing and notifications can lead to “wrist checking” and increased screen time
Can be bulky or uncomfortable for all-day and all-night wear
Wrist movement can sometimes interfere with sleep and HRV accuracy
What Really Makes Them Different?
Okay, let’s zoom in on the juicy bits – the things that truly set these two apart.
A. Health and Wellness – Recovery vs. Real-Time Action
This is where the biggest split happens:
1. Smart Ring – Your Sleep and Recovery Guru
If you’re serious about understanding your sleep quality, recovery, and overall wellness trends, the smart ring might be your new best friend. Why? Because it lives on your finger, where blood flow signals are super stable and consistent. This often leads to incredibly accurate data for things like Resting Heart Rate (RHR), Heart Rate Variability (HRV), and Body Temperature fluctuations – all crucial markers for how well your body is recovering. Plus, because they’re so comfy, wearing them 24/7 (even to bed!) is a breeze. No more bulky wrist device interrupting your Zs.
2. Smartwatch – Your Active Fitness Coach
Hitting the gym? Running a marathon? Then your smartwatch is probably going to be your go-to. Why? Because it’s built for action. With a screen right there, you get instant, real-time feedback on your pace, distance, heart rate zones, and more. Many smartwatches also boast built-in GPS (so you can leave your phone at home!), specialised workout modes for everything from swimming to yoga, and even advanced health features like ECG or blood pressure monitoring on some models.
B. The Screen Factor – Instant Info vs. Zero Distraction
This is a pretty obvious one, but it makes a huge difference in your daily experience.
1. Smartwatch
Need to know who’s calling, check the weather, or get directions without pulling out your phone? The smartwatch screen is your window to the digital world, right on your wrist. Super convenient for glances and interactions.
2. Smart Ring
If you’re tired of constant pings and screen glare, the smart ring is a breath of fresh air. All its data is collected silently and stored in its companion app. You only check it when you want to. It’s the ultimate tool for passive data collection and reducing digital distractions.
C. Power and Convenience: Charging Cycles
Let’s be real, daily charging is a drag.
1. Smart Ring
This is a big win for smart rings. Most offer a whopping 4 to 7+ days of battery life on a single charge. You can truly “wear it and forget it” for almost a week.
2. Smartwatch
Most smartwatches struggle to make it past 1-2 days, meaning they often become another gadget you need to plug in every single night. It’s not the end of the world, but it definitely impacts the “set it and forget it” factor.
Which One Should YOU Choose?
It really boils down to what you’re looking for in a wearable. There’s no single “winner” here, just you choosing the right tool for the job.
Choose the smart ring if you are:
Someone who wants their tech to be almost invisible, blending in with regular jewellery
Primarily focused on quality of sleep, recovery, and long-term wellness trends
Focused on getting accurate, consistent data
Someone who already likes wearing nothing more than a common watch
Looking for maximum battery life and fewer digital distractions
Choose the Smartwatch if you are:
An athlete or gym goer who needs real-time GPS tracking, on-screen metrics, and detailed workout analysis
Someone who relies heavily on wrist-based notifications, calls, and app access to stay connected on the go
Looking for advanced features like ECG monitoring, fall detection, or cellular connectivity
Ultimately, the distinction between the smart ring and the smartwatch comes down to functionality vs. form. The smartwatch is a versatile, all-in-one gadget that delivers information and notifications instantly—a powerful computer mounted on your wrist. The smart ring is a subtle, focused health specialist, silently gathering the most accurate recovery data while demanding very little attention (and even less charging!).
In the rapidly evolving world of wearables, you don’t even have to choose just one! Many people are finding the ideal balance by using a smart ring for their deep-sleep and recovery insights, and strapping on a smartwatch only for dedicated runs or workouts. It’s all about building a tech ecosystem that works for your lifestyle.
Before you decide which of these amazing gadgets ends up on your body, we highly recommend diving a little deeper. Both smartwatches and smart rings are constantly adding groundbreaking features—like non-invasive blood pressure monitoring on some watches, and advanced AI-driven sleep analysis on rings.
The perfect tech is the one that fits your routine and helps you meet your goals. So, please tell us what you think! Are you team #SmartRing for that effortless sleep tracking, or team #SmartWatch for the full-featured connectivity? Drop your thoughts and questions in the comments below! And for more in-depth reviews and the latest news on mobile tech and gadgets, be sure to check out the rest of our site 😀
The holidays are officially here, and whether you’re playing Santa for your favourite people or just planning a massive self-upgrade, we’ve got the receipts on the hottest tech of 2025. Forget the stress of wandering through endless online shops. We’ve collected the absolute cream of the crop—from the top-selling smartphone everyone’s been buzzing about and the must-have smartwatch for fitness fanatics, to the beast of a gaming laptop ready to crush your holiday free time. There truly is a perfect gadget out there waiting for you or your lucky recipient. So, why waste another second? Let’s dive into this list of 2025’s top tech products and find the next amazing piece of gear that belongs under your tree!
The Samsung Galaxy Z Fold7 is a total powerhouse that finally ditches the bulk for a super-slim design, packing a massive 200MP camera and genius multimodal AI into a foldable that’s actually lighter than a standard Ultra phone.
The Alienware 18 Area-51 is a monstrously powerful desktop replacement that pairs an 18-inch 300Hz display with an RTX 5090 to deliver “borderline unfair” gaming performance in a bold, sci-fi chassis that’s built to dominate your desk.
The Apple MacBook Air M4 is a sleek, fanless speed demon that levels up your daily hustle with a 12MP Centre Stage camera and the brand-new Sky Blue finish, all while serving up enough battery life to outlast your longest coffee shop sessions.
The Apple AirPods Pro 3 are a total game-changer for your ears, packing mind-blowing noise cancellation and a built-in heart rate sensor into a comfier, tinier design that even handles live translations on the fly.
The Apple Watch Ultra 3 is a rugged beast of a wearable that takes adventure to the next level with standalone satellite messaging, a massive 3,000-nit LTPO3 display, and a beefed-up battery that keeps you going for up to 42 hours.
The Asus ROG Xbox Ally X (2025) is the ultimate handheld flex, combining a beastly AMD Ryzen AI Z2 Extreme chip with a dedicated Xbox button and a massive 80Wh battery to turn your entire Game Pass library into a portable, high-performance console experience.
The Apple iPad Pro M5 is a performance beast that takes the “Pro” title seriously, pairing the world’s most advanced tandem OLED display with a new chip that’s 3.5 times faster at AI tasks and supports incredibly fast 60W charging.
The Alienware 34 Curved QD-OLED is a total desktop flex that evolves a fan-favourite icon with a blistering 240Hz refresh rate and next-gen colours, giving you that buttery-smooth, ultra-vivid gaming experience on a massive 1800R curved display.
The Logitech MX Master 4 is the ultimate productivity flex, featuring a brand-new haptic engine for tactile feedback and a genius “Actions Ring” overlay that puts your favourite shortcuts right at your cursor.
Available in 3 colours: JetBlack, Blue Shadow, Silver Shadow
256GB / 512GB / 1TB Storage
Large foldable 8-inch main OLED display + 6.5-inch cover OLED display
200MP main camera + 10MP telephoto + 12MP ultrawide
Selfie camera: 10MP wide on main display, 10 MP wide cover display
Snapdragon 8 Elite processor with 12GB / 16GB of RAM
Captures up to 8K videos at 30fps
Includes a 4400mAh battery that supports wireless + reverse wireless charging
Reasons to buy
Thinner & lighter design
Bigger primary & cover displays
Impressive camera performance
Includes newer Android 16
Promises 7 major software updates
Impressive overall performance
Reasons to avoid
Very expensive
Slow charging speed
Average audio speakers
No S Pen support
Average telephoto camera
The Galaxy Z Fold7 didn’t just get an upgrade; it hit the gym, got a serious glow-up, and is ready for the runway. When it’s closed, this phone is thinner and lighter than ever—it finally feels like a normal, high-end smartphone and not two devices playing piggyback. The outer cover, 6.5-inch OLED screen is now beautifully wide, meaning you can actually text, scroll social media, and handle your daily life without feeling the need to flip it open every five seconds. It’s a proper phone now.
But when you do open it up? Hello, 8-inch, gorgeous OLED mini-tablet. This is your ultimate canvas. Think genuine tablet multitasking, like watching YouTube on one side while nailing your to-do list on the other. Samsung’s hinge magic is real; the crease is still technically there, but it’s like a shy line now, barely noticeable when you’re actually looking at the screen. And finally, the camera is a beast. Samsung didn’t hold back, giving the Z Fold7 the same incredible 200MP sensor as the S25 Ultra. You no longer have to sacrifice amazing photo quality just to have a folding phone. Get ready for super detailed, crystal-clear shots.
Under the hood, it’s rocking the absolute fastest chip available—the engine roars with blazing-fast performance, zero lag during smooth gaming, and no hiccups when you’re leaping between a dozen apps. Even better? Samsung is giving it the long-haul commitment: up to seven years of major Android and security updates. Seriously, this phone is built to survive until the next decade!
For all its futuristic glory, the Fold7 has a couple of very human flaws. First, in its quest to be slim and durable, Samsung had to make a painful sacrifice: no more built-in S Pen support on the inner display. You can still use a basic capacitive stylus, but if you love that precise, pressure-sensitive S Pen feeling for drawing or hardcore note-taking, you’re sadly out of luck. It’s a bummer for the artists and power-notetakers out there. And second? The price is still absolutely savage cos you’re shelling out a fortune for this tech. While it’s arguably worth it for what you get, you have to remember you could literally buy a top-tier regular phone and a high-end tablet for the same amount of cash.
So, the bottom line is: it nails the “phone that becomes a tablet” dream with supreme style, speed, and photos. But you’ll be ditching the precious S Pen experience and emptying more of your wallet for the privilege.
Comes with either the 16-inch or the 18-inch laptop models
Reasons to buy
Impressive design overall
Superior gaming performance
Impressive display performance
Includes a mechanical keyboard
Impressive thermal cooling system
Nice selection of input ports
Premium build & design
Reasons to avoid
Poor battery life
Very expensive
Weighs 4kg, so it’s heavy
16-inch model is less expensive
If you’re still tethered to a bulky tower, listen up! The Alienware 18 Area-51 isn’t just a laptop; it’s a terrifying, beautiful fortress of raw, uncompromised gaming power that decided to go nomadic in 2025. This absolute monster is sitting right at the top, and here’s why you want it.
Forget “laptop performance.” This thing packs the absolute biggest guns available: the latest Intel Core Ultra 9 275HX processor and the chart-topping NVIDIA GeForce RTX 5090 GPU. We’re talking the full-power desktop-crushing versions. It chews up any modern AAA game and spits it out at max settings. Plus, with up to 64GB of super-speedy memory and up to 2TB SSD storage, everything—from boot-up to loading the biggest maps—is blink-and-you-miss-it quick.
The real black magic is how cool it stays. Alienware’s Cryo-tech cooling system is phenomenal. It uses exotic Element 31 thermal compound and a completely re-engineered chassis with a special Cryo-Chamber to move massive amounts of air. Translation: You can run the most demanding games all day, and your CPU and GPU stay remarkably cool, allowing them to deliver maximum performance without turning your keyboard into a toaster. No throttling, just pure power.
The 18-inch display is a feast for the eyes, looking and feeling impossibly smooth thanks to a blistering 300Hz refresh rate. It’s super bright (500 nits) and features G-SYNC to keep your visuals fluid and tear-free. It’s an instant competitive edge in any fast-paced title. To top it off, you can grab the optional, super-satisfying CherryMX ultra low-profile mechanical keyboard. It feels wonderfully “clicky” and responsive. The entire chassis screams premium, with a sturdy build and that iconic, customizable AlienFX RGB lighting that lets everyone know you mean business.
The Area-51 is a gaming masterpiece, but that power comes at a literal weight cost. Let’s be real: this machine is a portable desktop replacement, not a toss-it-in-your-bag laptop. Weighing well over 4 kg (9 lbs), plus the enormous charger, lugging it around is a serious commitment. Most standard backpacks will actively reject their massive 18-inch frames. It’s too big and heavy for daily travel; it’s really meant for moving from your home office to a friend’s LAN party. If maximum mobility is your priority, you must accept that this machine will give you an impressive bicep workout.
Comes in 4 colours: Sky Blue, Silver, Starlight and Midnight
Up to 24GB of unified memory
Choose between 256GB or 512GB of SSD storage
Support for Apple Intelligence
Includes 12MP Centre Stage camera, a MagSafe 3 charging port,
Reasons to buy
Fast CPU performance
Impressive battery life
Slim & lightweight
Includes MagSafe charging
High system memory
Support for two external displays
Lower price
Reasons to avoid
Below standard refresh rates
Problems with Apple Intelligence
No touch screen
No drastic changes to the design
In 2025, the MacBook Air M4 isn’t just a great laptop—it’s the smart, go-to choice for virtually everyone. It took the already amazing M-series magic and polished it into a completely fanless, silent, beautiful package.
The M4 chip is a masterclass in balance. It gives you blazing-fast power to handle daily work, photo edits, and even some heavy video tasks, all while running completely silent. That’s right, it doesn’t even have a fan! It’s pure, quiet computing bliss. And thanks to its souped-up Neural Engine, the M4 is future-proofed for all those fantastic new AI features in macOS Sequoia, making your life smarter and your workflow practically automatic.
This thing still absolutely laughs in the face of the competition when it comes to battery life. You can seriously leave the charger at home. We’re talking a solid 15 to 18 hours of moderate use, letting you sail through a full work week or school day without a single power-up panic.
It truly earns its name. Incredibly thin and feather-light, the 13-inch model slips into any bag, and you honestly might forget it’s there. The build quality is classic Apple—premium and sturdy. The keyboard feels great, the trackpad is still the best in the business, and yes, we cheered: MagSafe charging is back! No more tripping over cords and sending your expensive laptop flying.
Plus, Apple pulled a fantastic surprise: they made 16GB of super-fast RAM the new base configuration, and at a lower starting price! This means even the entry-level model is a serious multitasking beast built to last for years. Oh, and for the pros, it now officially supports two external displays with the lid closed. Hello, perfect home desktop setup!
Look, the Air is designed for the mainstream, so it skips one key “Pro” feature to keep the price and thinness down: the display doesn’t have ProMotion (120Hz). The Liquid Retina screen is still bright, sharp, and gorgeous, but when you scroll through long documents or zoom along a video timeline, the motion won’t have that super buttery, fluid feel you get from the much pricier MacBook Pro. But honestly? The M4 Air is the perfect sweet spot: amazing power, legendary battery life, and true portability, all wrapped up at a price that won’t make your wallet cry.
Preferably with Apple iPhones, iPads, Watch & MacBooks
The AirPods Pro 3 in 2025 aren’t just earbuds—they’re basically a personal, tiny audio super-computer you stick in your ears. If you’re serious about audio and living the Apple life, these are a non-negotiable requirement. Prepare for total quiet. Apple seriously cranked up the dial on Active Noise Cancellation (ANC), claiming it’s up to twice as effective as the last generation. That means droning aeroplane engines, loud commuter chatter, or your neighbour’s noisy calls just vanish.
But they’re smart, too. The Adaptive Transparency mode is a genius: it lets you hear the world (and people talking to you) perfectly clearly, but if a sudden, painful noise—like a siren or a sudden shout—hits, the buds instantly squash it down to protect your hearing. These buds are pulling double duty as fitness trackers. They finally added a built-in heart rate sensor. Now you can ditch the Apple Watch for a quick run and still beam real-time heart rate data straight to your Health app. This is awesome for focused workouts.
And talk about future-forward: thanks to the new Apple Intelligence, you get real-time Live Translation. Hand one bud to a friend speaking another language, and it translates the conversation almost instantly right in your ear. Mind. Blown. Plus, Apple is looking out for your ears with new Hearing Health features, including a quick hearing test and a “Hearing Aid” feature that actually amplifies and clarifies speech in loud rooms.
The connection quality is flawless. Switching between your iPhone, Mac, and Watch is instant and automatic—a piece of magic no other brand has truly nailed. On the audio side, a new architecture delivers a wider soundstage and crisper vocal clarity. And they’re tougher than ever: IP57 dust and water resistance means they can handle brutal workouts and rainy days. All this while delivering a solid 8 hours of battery life with ANC on!
Despite the wizardry, Apple always maintains a few frustrating walls. First, the audio nerds will rage: you can’t manually adjust the EQ. You’re locked into Apple’s proprietary Adaptive EQ, which is smart, but if you want to dial up the bass or tweak the treble yourself, you simply can’t. You have to settle for Apple’s tuning. Second, if you run with an Android phone, just know that the AirPods Pro 3 basically revert to very expensive, very good noise-cancelling headphones. You lose all the truly cool stuff: no seamless switching, no instant pairing, no heart rate sync, and no Live Translation. They only unleash their full genius when paired with Apple gear. Ultimately, if you’re living the Apple life, the AirPods Pro 3 are the definitive, must-have audio upgrade.
5. Apple Watch Ultra 3
Best Smartwatch With Satellite Communication, Health Tracking & Network Capabilities
Active GPS and satellite communication, even in life-threatening situations
5G network capabilities for fast, optimum connectivity
2-day battery life with fast charging capabilities
A large, bright 49mm display with thin bezels to optimise views
Advanced health tracking and monitoring features
Comes with the most accurate GPS signals
Reasons to buy
Life-saving satellite communication
Enhanced 5G
Massive, bright, & tough display
Advanced health monitoring
Impressive battery life
Reasons to avoid
Big & bulky for everyone
High cost
Meet the Apple Watch Ultra 3—this isn’t your average step-counter. This is a rugged, titanium-clad survival tool built for adventurers, elite athletes, and anyone who demands the absolute pinnacle of health tech.
This is the biggest flex: Satellite Communication is now native. If you’re hiking deep in the wilderness, diving far offshore, or just completely out of cell service, you can still use your Watch to send emergency messages and your precise location via satellite. That’s not a feature; that’s priceless peace of mind. Plus, it rocks enhanced 5G connectivity, grabbing stronger signals in weak areas and using less battery while it’s at it!
While it won’t last a week, the battery is a genuine game-changer for Apple standards. You can confidently get through two full days (42 hours) of normal use, track your sleep both nights, and still have juice left. Crucially, it has the stamina to track a full Ironman-distance workout using GPS and heart rate monitoring. And when it does need a charge? It blasts up to 80% in about 45 minutes—fast enough for a quick top-up while you grab a coffee.
The display is huge, bright, and beautiful. At up to 3,000 nits, it’s the brightest Apple Watch screen ever, meaning your metrics are perfectly readable whether you’re facing desert sun glare or murky deep-sea water. Thanks to new LTPO3 tech, the bezels basically disappeared, giving you maximum screen space without making the watch physically gigantic (well, more gigantic).
Beyond just logging your steps, the Ultra 3 is getting medically serious. It builds on the awesome ECG and irregular rhythm alerts by now analysing your long-term data for patterns consistent with high blood pressure (hypertension). This is a huge leap into proactive health monitoring. And for the athletes, the dual-frequency GPS is laser-accurate, giving hikers and runners rock-solid data, even when navigating the concrete canyons of a city.
As amazing as it is, the Ultra 3 is designed for a specific kind of hero, which creates two big headaches for everyone else. First, it’s a GIGANTIC 49mm: Apple only makes it in one huge size. If you have smaller wrists or prefer a subtle look, this thing is simply too bulky, heavy, and thick. People aren’t wrong when they call it a “wrist shackle,” especially for sleep tracking. Second, the price tag will make you sweat. Starting at a hefty $799 (U.S.), you’re paying double the cost of the standard model. You’re shelling out a huge premium for the titanium case and niche features like Satellite SOS. If your idea of “adventure” is walking to the corner store, you’re massively overpaying for tech you’ll never use!
The bottom line? The Apple Watch Ultra 3 is the ultimate wrist computer for the dedicated, high-intensity user who values maximum safety and performance. Just make sure you have the wrist size and the budget to back it up.
Full Xbox gaming experience with smooth frame rates & consistent performance
True portability with a massive 80Wh battery
Comes with AMD Ryzen AI Z2 Extreme
24GB of RAM with 1TB of SSD storage
Ergonomic chassis design with comfortable joystick grips & triggers
Comes with Thunderbolt 4 to connect high-speed peripherals, like high-end docks or an external GPU
Reasons to buy
Console-style experience in a handheld Gaming PC
Deeply integrates with Xbox Game Pass and Play Anywhere
Top-of-the-line processing
Massive storage & memory
Impressive battery life
Thunderbolt 4 port
Hall effect joysticks & triggers
Reasons to avoid
Deal with Windows 11 issues
Manually need to tweak in-game settings for every game
Get ready to throw your definition of “portable gaming” out the window! The ROG Xbox Ally X is all about total freedom and maximum power, thanks to a seriously smart collaboration with Microsoft. This is the absolute game-changer: when you fire it up, you don’t land on a fussy desktop. You jump straight into a beautiful, console-like dashboard that scoops up all your game libraries—Xbox, Steam, Epic, you name it—into one simple, controller-friendly menu. No more wrestling with the Windows desktop just to play! Thanks to deep integration with Xbox Game Pass, this thing truly feels like a portable Xbox and a full PC. Your entire game catalogue is suddenly in your hands.
This handheld is stacked! It rocks the top-of-the-line AMD Ryzen AI Z2 Extreme chip, giving it enough muscle to blitz through the latest AAA titles at excellent frame rates. It’s not just fast; it’s more efficient than ever. Plus, check the specs: 24GB of RAM and a standard 1TB SSD. That’s the kind of power you expect in a solid gaming laptop, not a handheld. Translation: everything runs smoothly, and you actually have space for those huge modern titles. This is the most practical upgrade, hands down. They jumped the battery from 40Wh to a massive 80Wh. That means you get up to double the playtime on lighter games and a solid, satisfying session on demanding titles. You can finally relax and game without being surgically attached to a wall socket.
Say goodbye to annoying wear and tear! The controls finally use Hall Effect technology, which means incredibly precise movement and, most importantly, zero chance of stick drift, ever. Those joysticks and triggers are built to last forever. And check this out: it packs a full USB4/Thunderbolt 4 port. That’s a huge deal, letting you connect high-speed docks or even an External GPU (eGPU) to transform your little handheld into a desktop gaming monster when you get home!
For all its hardware brilliance, the Ally X is still fighting against a giant, ancient foe: Windows 11 Home. Yes, that awesome full-screen experience helps, but Windows is still the operating system underneath. That means you still occasionally get slammed by annoying PC headaches: sluggish UI screens, pop-ups, mandatory updates, and all the fussy notifications of a desktop system trying to live on a tiny touchscreen. You’ll often have to manually dive into settings for every new AAA game to find that perfect balance of frame rate and graphics.
The ROG Xbox Ally X is an incredible piece of hardware that truly unlocks your entire PC library. You just need to accept that sometimes, the operating system beneath the hood will remind you that you’re running a powerful, slightly complicated computer.
Choose between the Wi-Fi or the Wi-Fi + Cellular version
Up to 2TB storage
Two colours to choose from: Space Black or Silver
Supports Apple Pencil and Magic Keyboard
Reasons to buy
Impressive performance
Excellent OLED screen
Super-quick 5G & WiFi speeds
Good camera features
Reasons to avoid
Really pricey
Battery life could be better
No IP rating
Same design, camera & hardware specs as the previous year’s model
Asking why the iPad Pro M5 is the best in 2025 is like asking why a supercar is fast—it’s designed to be overkill, and that’s the fun part! This isn’t just a tablet; it’s a slab of portable, desktop-class performance that’s single-handedly redefining what a tablet can be.
This M5 chip is insanely fast—like, “Are we sure this isn’t a desktop?” fast. It’s got a seriously souped-up Neural Engine and GPU, turning it into an absolute AI powerhouse. It handles complex, pro-level tasks like editing multiple 4K ProRes video streams or rendering huge 3D models in real-time, all without breaking a sweat. It’s performance without a single compromise. Plus, even the base model is stacked with a generous 12GB of RAM (and up to 16GB!), while the storage is so fast, huge file transfers are practically instantaneous.
Prepare for a jaw-dropping moment with the Tandem OLED display. We’re talking perfect blacks, amazing contrast (2,000,000:1—that’s a lot of contrast!), and a blindingly bright screen (up to 1,600 nits HDR). If you’re a pro, you can even opt for the Nano-texture display glass to kill glare without sacrificing any of that gorgeous color. It’s a pure win for artists and editors.
The 13-inch model is ridiculously thin—at just 5.1 mm, it’s almost impossibly light to carry. It feels like magic. On the connectivity front, it’s rocking Wi-Fi 7, giving you secure, super-fast wireless speeds for instant collaboration and working with huge files anywhere. And of course, the new Apple Pencil Pro is a dream, with “squeeze” and “barrel roll” gestures making creative control feel utterly natural. Best of all? iPadOS 26 finally got a serious interface makeover with game-changing multitasking, so the software is finally catching up to the absurd hardware.
For all its mighty M5 muscle, the iPad Pro suffers from one fatal flaw: it still runs iPadOS, not macOS. Yes, iPadOS 26 is better, but it still lacks the full flexibility, desktop-grade file management, and deep application compatibility that a true Mac or Windows laptop offers. It still feels like a massive, glorious tablet, not a full, no-compromise computer. You pay flagship laptop prices, especially once you add the essential Magic Keyboard and Apple Pencil Pro, for an operating system that still makes you jump through a few hoops.
Bottom line: The iPad Pro M5 has the best hardware of any mobile device, period. It’s the most powerful, most beautiful, and most versatile tool you can buy—but you might have to spend a little time teaching yourself to love its operating system.
Premium video processing with impressive motion resolution
G-Sync & FreeSync Premium Pro certified
Superb HDR
Reasons to avoid
No headphone jack or internal speakers
Stop what you’re doing. This monitor—the Alienware 34 240Hz QD-OLED—is where your search for the ultimate screen ends. It took the absolute best display tech on the planet and cranked the gaming performance dial straight to eleven.
Prepare for perfection. Because every single pixel on this QD-OLED panel lights itself up, when a pixel needs to be black, it simply shuts off. The result? Truly infinite contrast. HDR content and terrifyingly dark game scenes look so dramatic and realistic, it’s unreal. Plus, the Quantum Dot (QD) tech on top means colours are brighter, purer, and more vibrant than any standard screen, especially when the image is bright. Say goodbye to washed-out visuals.
If you play fast, you need fast gear. This monitor boasts an official Grey-to-Grey (GtG) response time of 0.03 milliseconds. That’s basically instantaneous. You get zero motion blur, zero ghosting, and zero trailing, giving you the clearest, sharpest view possible when you’re spinning around in a clutch moment. Pair that with the ultra-smooth 240Hz refresh rate, and every frame your expensive GPU pumps out is displayed flawlessly.
The 34-inch ultrawide canvas, combined with a gentle 1800R curve, literally wraps the action around your head. It’s the perfect ticket for getting lost in cinematic AAA masterpieces and gives you an epic field of view in competitive titles. And don’t worry about screen tearing—it comes certified for both NVIDIA G-SYNC Compatible and AMD FreeSync Premium Pro, meaning your gameplay is guaranteed to be buttery smooth no matter what GPU you’re running.
As incredible as this Alienware is for gaming, its core technology still asks for a little patience when you use it for boring stuff like work. The Burn-In Shadow: Because it’s OLED, there’s always the inherent risk of permanent burn-in if you leave static stuff (like the Windows taskbar or a persistent health bar) sitting on the screen for hours and hours, day after day. Alienware includes smart protection and a 3-year warranty that covers burn-in, but you still have to be mindful and manage your screen usage actively.
The Text Tweak: The unique sub-pixel structure of QD-OLED means that super crisp, high-contrast text might occasionally show a tiny bit of colour fringing compared to old-school LCD screens. It’s way better than it used to be, but coders or writers who stare at text all day might find a dedicated IPS monitor slightly less fatiguing. The Verdict: This is the undisputed king for rich, beautiful, blazing-fast gaming. Just remember its OLED heritage if your monitor pulls 50/50 duty as a workhorse.
Includes ‘Action Ring’ to easily access your favourite tools
Ergonomic design with smooth navigation and natural tilt
Reasons to buy
Comfortable ergonomic shape
Impressive battery life
Highly customizable
MagSpeed scroll wheel is brilliant
Quiet left & right clicks
Supports all operating systems
Reasons to avoid
Heavy
Some buttons are hard to distinguish by touch alone
The thumb wheel lacks MagSpeed functions
Cheap feel
Forget everything you know about boring office mice! The Logitech MX Master 4 in 2025 isn’t just hardware—it’s a highly specialised, ergonomic co-worker sculpted for your hand. This is the undisputed champion of productivity, built specifically to make those long workdays fly by. This is the headline that sells the mouse: you can literally feel your work! The MX Master 4 provides customizable haptic feedback—subtle little vibrations that give you satisfying confirmation when you trigger a shortcut or when your cursor “snaps” to an object. If you’re deep in video editing, graphic design, or heavy data analysis, this tactile feedback adds a surprising layer of focus and precision.
Tired of digging for shortcuts? Enter the Actions Ring! Summon this digital overlay menu with a press of your thumb, and it instantly gives you a radial menu of customised, app-specific shortcuts right under your cursor. Logitech even claims this trick can shave off up to 33% of your time by putting complex functions (like Excel macros or Photoshop filters) right at your fingertips. The famous shape is back and better, still sculpted perfectly for a natural palm grip, offering blissful, full-hand support for those brutal 8-to-12-hour work sessions. It even has Quiet Click technology, so you get that satisfying click feel without making a sound and annoying your cube-mates.
Of course, the MagSpeed scroll wheel is legendary—it lets you blast through a thousand lines per second in free-spin mode or switch to pixel-perfect ratchet scrolling instantly. And the Logi Flow feature is still pure magic: control up to three different devices (Mac, PC, or iPad) and copy/paste files between them just by gliding your cursor off one screen and onto the next!
The MX Master 4 is a productivity dream, but its specialised nature comes with a couple of serious compromises. It has a super accurate 8,000 DPI sensor, but its low polling rate is a deliberate choice to save battery. This means for competitive gaming, the cursor will feel sluggish and non-responsive compared to true gaming mice. It’s a workhorse, not a warhorse. This is the harsh truth. The highly sculpted, beautiful design is exclusively for right-handed users. Due to the side buttons and thumb rest, left-handed users are completely out of luck and will find this mouse impractical and uncomfortable.
Final word: If you’re a right-handed pro who lives in spreadsheets and creative apps, the MX Master 4 is the pinnacle of wireless productivity. But if you’re a serious gamer or a southpaw, you’ll need to look elsewhere.
Top Tech Products: The Summary
Let’s recap on what we just went through.
Tech Product
Value
Best for
Samsung Galaxy Z Fold7
Ultimate screen versatility & power
The mobile professional who needs a tablet in their pocket.
Alienware 18 Area-51
Unrivalled, desktop-level power and a massive 300Hz screen.
The absolute top-tier gamer/creator who never compromises on specs.
Apple MacBook Air M4
Unmatched battery life and quiet portability.
The student or creative who works on the go all day.
Apple AirPods Pro 3
Best-in-class ANC and seamless Apple Health tracking.
The commuter or fitness enthusiast is deep in the Apple ecosystem.
Apple Watch Ultra 3
Off-grid safety, rugged durability, and 2-day battery life.
The serious adventurer, diver, or high-end fitness enthusiast.
Asus ROG Xbox Ally X (2025)
PC gaming freedom with a console-like experience.
The gamer who wants to play everything anywhere, in high fidelity.
Apple iPad Pro (M5)
Raw mobile processing power and the perfect canvas.
The digital artist, 3D modeller, or video editor.
Alienware 34 240Hz QD-OLED Monitor
Flawless cinematic speed and colour fidelity.
The hardcore PC gamer who demands the ultimate visual experience.
Logitech MX Master 4
Ergonomic comfort and custom productivity tools.
The designer, developer, or data analyst spends all day on a desktop.
Final Recommendations
Wow, what a lineup! We’ve navigated the cutting edge of tech in 2025, from the ultimate folding phone to the most ergonomic mouse of 2025. Every one of these top tech products is a champion in its category, but your final choice always comes down to what you want the product to do for you. To help you solve whatever problems or challenges you are facing.
So, you’ve read the facts and features. You know the pros and flaws. You even know what sets each device apart. So what’s next, you ask? Don’t just dream about that next-level tech. Click on your champion of choice right now and experience the future of 2025, today. And let’s not forget. Share with us what we have shared with you. We’ve shared with you our take, but now we want to hear from you. Jump down to the comments below, and tell us which 2025 product is your absolute favourite, or if you have any lingering questions before you hit that ‘buy’ button. We really want to hear from you. So let’s have a chat 😀
We’ve all been there—staring at the shiny new Apple Store page, credit card in hand, thinking, “Do I really need this?” With the new iPad Pro (M5) released in October 2025, the question is louder than ever. The iPad Pro (M4) from 2024 was already a total stunner—super thin, crazy fast, and rocking that incredible OLED screen. So, does the M5 really bring enough to the table to make you swap, or is it just a tiny update? Let’s dive in to find out what the differences are, the cool new stuff, and the “nice-to-haves” to help you figure out if you should stick with your M4 or treat yourself to the M5. Let the battle begin: iPad Pro (M4) vs iPad Pro (M5)
iPad Pro (M4) vs iPad Pro (M5) – Quick Overview
First off, let’s be real—the iPad Pro (M4) was a huge deal. It brought us the Ultra Retina XDR display (that fancy Tandem OLED), giving us true blacks and amazing brightness on both sizes. Plus, the M4 chip tore through video editing and gaming while being the thinnest Apple gadget ever.
For most of us, the M4 is still more power than we know what to do with! It opens apps in a blink, handles multitasking like a champ, and looks good doing it. We aren’t here to just bore you with numbers; let’s see if the M5 actually fixes anything or adds cool features that the M4 is missing.
Specifications
iPad Pro (M5)
iPad Pro (M4)
11-inch (M5, 2025)
Ultra Retina Tandem OLED, 120Hz, HDR10, 1688 x 2420 pixels
Apple M5 CPU (9-core, 256/512GB) / (10-core, 1/2TB)
This is the big one. Apple’s chips are always fast, but the M5 is focusing on how it uses that speed, especially for AI and gaming. Let’s break it down! With the processing power, the M4 was fast, no doubt. But here’s the cool part: the M5 gives everyone a 10-core CPU, even on the cheapest models! It’s built on newer tech, so it runs cooler and handles multitasking even better. The M4 is great for daily use, but the M5 feels just a bit more snappier when you’re exporting media or handling data.
Next is the graphics. For gamers and content creators/artists, the M5’s graphics are way more efficient at lighting and shadows (ray tracing). We’re talking about games running up to 30% smoother. If you play big-name games or do 3D art on your iPad Pro, the M5 is going to feel a lot more better like a console. And what about AI? This is the M5’s secret weapon. With all the new Apple Intelligence features, the M5 chip is built to handle them way faster—Apple says up to 3.5x faster than the M4! If you use AI tools to edit video or generate images right on your iPad, the M5 is in a league of its own. So overall, the M4 chip is powerful, but with the newer tech, more efficiency and faster processing of AI, the M5 wins this one.
2. Memory and Storage
This is the best “secret” upgrade. The M4 started with 8GB of RAM on the base models. The M5? It kicks things off with 12GB of RAM! That extra 4GB is huge for keeping your apps open in the background so they don’t have to restart when you switch back.
The M5 can move data around faster than the M4. This just means everything from gaming to big work projects will run smoother. While the storage space (256GB to 2TB) is the same, the M5 saves and loads files faster. You’ll mostly notice this if you’re moving huge video files, but hey, every second counts. In the end, the iPad Pro (M5) comes with more system memory, resulting in smoother running, and faster loading of apps. Once again M5 takes this one.
3. Screen, Design, and Extras
If you were hoping for a brand new screen, don’t worry—the M4’s screen was already perfect. So the M5 iPad Pro uses the exact same Tandem OLED tech. You get the same awesome brightness and vibrant colors. However, the sad news is that the glare-free “Nanotexture Glass” is still only for the expensive 1TB and 2TB models. If you want that matte look, you still have to pay up for the bigger storage. If you’re expecting any major change to the design-don’t, because they are totally the same.
The M4 had Wi-Fi 6E, which is great. But the M5 includes and upgraded Wi-Fi 7. If you have a fancy new router, this means less lag and faster speeds—perfect for gaming or streaming super high-quality video. The 5G on the M5 is a little better at holding a signal in tricky spots, but if you live in a city, you probably won’t notice a huge difference from the M4.
The input port is the same Thunderbolt 3 / USB-Type-C setup. But thanks to the M5 chip, plugging into an external monitor works even better. It handles high-res screens smoothly without getting as hot. Overall, no changes to the display. No design changes. No changes to the input ports. But it comes with a upgraded Wi-Fi for better connectivity, which means the M5 wins this one.
Which brings us now to the last question. Is this iPad Pro for you, or better yet, is it worth upgrading to the newer iPad or will you buy the older version? Let’s break it down this way. If you got the iPad Pro (M4) I would honestly say this: Keep it. Unless you use heavy AI tools all day or really, really need that extra RAM, your M4 is still a beast. The screen quality is the same, it looks the same, and it’s still super fast. Enjoy your M4—it’s still one of the best tablets out there!
If you have the Older iPad (M2 or older)? Get the iPad Pro (M5). This is the upgrade you’ve been waiting for! Moving to the M5 is a huge jump. You get the OLED screen (total game-changer), the slim and lightweight design, the landscape camera, and a processing chip that is way faster. It’s going to feel like a massive upgrade. Trust me. If you’re buying Your First iPad Pro, once again, I say: get the M5. The base model gives you a 12GB of RAM and better Wi-Fi 7 connection, meaning that it’ll last you for years to come. It’s the ultimate iPad Pro experience. Now let’s hear from you. Are you going to upgrade to the newer tablet? Do you have the older iPad Pro? What other iPads or tablets are you considering? We would love to hear from you 😀
Let’s be real for a second. We all see those glossy, premium phones on every billboard and think, “Wow, I need that.” But honestly, for 99% of what you actually do—scrolling through feeds, texting your friends, taking decent photos, and watching videos—splurging on a flagship model is kind of like buying a race car just to drive to the grocery store. The tech gap between the top-tier phones and the budget-friendly crew has basically vanished.
So, lemme ask you this: why drain most of your investment for features you’ll never use when you can get an awesome phone that does everything you need for under so much less? You get the same great battery life, bright screens, and speedy performance, but you keep a ton of cash in your pocket. Dive into our list and see our choice of the top budget cell phones you can get right now.
The Pixel 9a comes with Google’s signature software, with the best AI features, excellent camera system, and a durable design with trendy colors. All this available at a lower price.
With an excellent display and battery life, the Galaxy A56 is a great and one of the cheapest Android smartphones to get. It also performs exceptionally well for a smartphone within its price range.
The Nord 5 is a strong choice if you prioritize raw performance in the mid-range. It boasts a powerful processor and very fast charging, which often makes it feel snappier than the Samsung or Pixel models in this price bracket.
The OnePlus 13R includes great specs enclosed into a stylish frame, that not only performs well, but has a massive battery for battery life, and a good camera system. With premium looks and features, it’s not a phone to be missed, especially at its price tag.
If you’re tired of the same flagship design from most smartphones that check out the Nothing Phone 3a Pro. With a unique design and features set at a low price, this phone performs far beyond, making it a great alternative to other top phones.
With powerful performance, a good camera system and support for AI features, the iPhone 16e is a better alternative. Although it’s a little more expensive, it’s still the cheapest iPhone you can get right now.
“Google takes the brain of their flagship phone—the Tensor G4 chip and all that phenomenal camera software—and puts it into a body that keeps the price tag as low as possible.“
If you’re budget-conscious but still want a phone that feels genuinely smart and premium, the Google Pixel 9a is the absolute best alternative to those crazy expensive flagships.
Think of it this way: Google takes the brain of their flagship phone—the Tensor G4 chip and all that phenomenal camera software—and puts it into a body that keeps the price tag as low as possible. You’re essentially getting flagship-level photos and the cleanest, smoothest Android experience, without having to pay for the titanium frame or the super-premium zoom lens you might never use.
The biggest reason to choose the Pixel is the camera. It uses Google’s legendary processing to snap photos that often look better than pictures taken by phones costing twice as much. Plus, you get a massive bonus: Google is promising seven years of software and security updates, which means the Pixel 9a is guaranteed to be up-to-date and secure longer than almost any other phone on the market.
Of course, it’s not perfect. If you’re a serious mobile gamer, the Tensor G4 chip might get a little warm and the graphics performance isn’t as mind-blowing as the chips inside top phones. And here’s the kicker: it’s a pretty slowly charger compared to rivals like the OnePlus Nord 5. You also get slightly thicker screen bezels and a plastic back, which reminds you that you’re holding the ‘A’ model, not the ‘Pro’. But honestly, slap a case on it, and you’ll forget all about those trade-offs as soon as you look at your latest photo.
2. Samsung Galaxy A56 5G
“this is the phone that often gets the crown, especially for those who want a premium feel without the four-figure price tag”
Up to 6-year support on security & software updates
Bright, vibrant OLED display
Premium aluminum build
Includes IP67 water resistance
Good battery life
CONS
Struggles with gaming
No charger included
No telephoto camera & no wireless charging
Slow reaction time for fingerprint sensor
When we talk about getting the absolute most bang for your buck in the budget world, this is the phone that often gets the crown, especially for those who want a premium feel without the four-figure price tag. Think of it this way: the Galaxy A56 is like the “Greatest Hits” version of a flagship phone—it cherry-picks the best parts and leaves out the super-niche, expensive stuff.
What makes it the best budget alternative is how much future-proofing Samsung packs in. You’re getting a gorgeous, super-bright 120Hz Super AMOLED screen, which makes scrolling feel buttery-smooth, and it has a build quality that feels way more expensive than it is, complete with Gorilla Glass and an IP67 water resistance rating. That means a quick splash or a drop in the sink isn’t going to panic you. But the real game-changer is Samsung’s promise of six years of software and security updates. Seriously, you can hold onto this phone for ages, and it will still be secure and up-to-date, making that little price look like a genius long-term investment.
The performance is totally fine for all your day-to-day apps and social media, but if you’re a serious, graphics-heavy gamer, the processor can get a little chuggy compared to the OnePlus phones on our list. Plus, they were a little stingy and didn’t include the charging adapter in the box (a common trend, ugh!), and the fingerprint sensor isn’t lightning-fast. But for the average person who just wants a reliable, good-looking phone that will last until the sun burns out, the A56 is a winner.
3. OnePlus Nord 5
“when you’re playing a graphics-intensive game, juggling a dozen apps, or even editing a video, the Nord 5 feels just as snappy as a phone costing twice as much“
If you’re looking for an alternative to the usual Samsung or Google phones in this price bracket, the OnePlus Nord 5 is seriously worth a look. Think of it as the ultimate choice for anyone who prioritizes speed and power but doesn’t want to pay flagship money.
The reason the Nord 5 stands out is that it cheats a little bit—it takes a genuinely high-end processor, the Snapdragon 8s Gen 3, and puts it in a mid-range phone. This means when you’re playing a graphics-intensive game, juggling a dozen apps, or even editing a video, the Nord 5 feels just as snappy as a phone costing twice as much.
Plus, the charging speed is ridiculous! You get the huge 80W charging, meaning you can plug it in when you walk into the kitchen and be nearly full by the time you walk out. The massive 6,800mAh battery is also a huge win, easily lasting a heavy user through a day and often into a second.
While the main camera is pretty good, especially with its 50MP sensor, the ultra-wide lens is just “okay.” It also doesn’t have the same level of water resistance as a more expensive phone, and some people find the design a bit more generic compared to the unique look of a Google Pixel. But honestly, if you care more about raw speed and not having to worry about battery life than you do about taking a perfect photo of a skyline, the Nord 5 is a fantastic, performance-first budget option.
4. OnePlus 13R
“The 13R is the budget-conscious user’s best friend because it focuses on the two things you interact with most: speed and battery life.”
Because the OnePlus 13R is exactly the kind of phone that makes you wonder why flagship models even exist, think of it as the ultimate “affordable flagship”. It takes all the super-speedy stuff from a top-tier phone and strips away the few expensive gimmicks you probably don’t care about, leaving you with a beast of a device for so much less to spend.
The 13R is the budget-conscious user’s best friend because it focuses on the two things you interact with most: speed and battery life. It packs a Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 processor, which was a top-of-the-line chip in the previous generation of $1,000+ phones. This means your games will run incredibly smoothly, apps open instantly, and you’ll basically never see a stutter.
Pair that with a massive 6,000 mAh battery that genuinely lasts two full days for many people, and includes 80W fast wired charging to get you to 100% in under an hour, and you have a phone that feels like a supercar. It’s truly a performance champion in this price range.
Mostly in the areas that few people notice daily. The camera system is good, but not great—it’s solid for daylight photos and general use, but it won’t beat the computational photography wizardry of the Google Pixel 9a in tricky lighting. Also, while it is splash-resistant (IP65), it lacks the full, waterproof dunking capability (like IP68) of its more expensive siblings. And the biggest deal-breaker for some: no wireless charging. If you rely on dropping your phone on a charging pad at night, this might annoy you, but the included 80W wired charger usually makes up for it.
5. Nothing Phone (3a) Pro
“It’s the best alternative because it focuses on style and a clean user experience that feels premium”
The Nothing Phone (3a) Pro is arguably the most fun and unique phone you can buy on a budget right now. It totally flips the script on what a cheap phone should look like—no boring black slab here!
If you’re budget-conscious but still want a phone that gets compliments and doesn’t blend into the crowd, the 3a Pro is your go-to. It’s the best alternative because it focuses on style and a clean user experience that feels premium, rather than just loading up on raw, unnecessary specs. Think of it as the designer jeans of the smartphone world; you get a fashionable look and great comfort without paying the designer price.
The software, Nothing OS, is incredibly clean and bloat-free, which keeps the phone feeling snappy and fresh for longer, unlike some other budget phones packed with pre-installed junk. Plus, you get that unique Glyph Interface (the lights on the back!) for discreet notifications—a cool gimmick, sure, but a fun one!
The downside? Well, it’s not a powerhouse. You might see a little stuttering or lag if you try to push the latest graphic-intensive games, and if you’re in the US, carrier support can sometimes be a little less seamless than with a big-name brand. But honestly, if your day-to-day involves social media, streaming, and texting, you’ll be perfectly fine and look way cooler doing it.
6. Apple iPhone 16e
“The iPhone 16e is fantastic for people who want the core Apple experience without paying for the Pro features”
Previously rumored to be called the Apple iPhone SE (2025), The iPhone 16e is fantastic for people who want the core Apple experience without paying for the Pro features. Think of it as a reliable family sedan instead of a luxury SUV—it still has the newest engine! It includes the super-powerful A18 chip (just like the more expensive models) and the ability to use Apple Intelligence (AI) features, which means this phone will feel lightning-fast and relevant for years to come.
Plus, its battery life is incredible—it actually outlasts the more expensive standard iPhone 16! You get a durable design, a beautiful OLED screen (finally!), and access to the seamless iOS ecosystem. For anyone already invested in MacBooks, iPads, or AirPods, this is the most affordable entry point to the newest Apple features.
The trade-off is that Apple cuts corners in a few visible spots to hit that lower price. You’re stuck with an older-style notch at the top of the screen instead of the modern Dynamic Island, and you only get a single rear camera lens (though it’s a great one at 48MP). Also, for a $599 phone, the screen refresh rate is still a basic 60Hz, which feels less smooth than the 120Hz screens you can get on cheaper Android rivals like the Pixel 9a.
Final Recommendations
Looking at this list, you really can’t go wrong. We’ve got the camera king (Pixel 9a), the performance speedster (OnePlus Nord 5), the sleek design winner (Nothing Phone (3a) Pro), and even the long-term Apple powerhouse (iPhone 16e).
So, here’s the bottom line: Don’t let the price tags on the flagship phones trick you into spending hundreds more than you need to. Every phone on this list is a champion in its own right and gives you 90% of the premium experience for half the cash. Whether you click the button on the Pixel 9a to grab a camera phone that takes excellent quality photos, or you jump on the OnePlus 13R because you hate waiting for your battery to charge, you’re making a smart financial investment.
Ready to stop scrolling and start buying? Click the “Buy Now” button next to your favorite pick! And hey, once you’ve made your choice, come back and let us know what you picked and why! Did the Nothing Phone’s cool lights win you over? Are you all-in on that Samsung AMOLED screen? Drop a comment below and tell us which budget beast you chose and how it’s holding up—we would love to hear from you 😀
Ready to dive into the absolute madness that was 2025? It’s been a totally wild year for new releases, and honestly, trying to keep track of all the must-play titles that dropped feels like an extra boss fight. From massive, jaw-dropping open-world sagas to unexpected indie gems that stole our hearts (and our weekends), the sheer quality has been off the charts. We’ve played through the biggest sequels, dissected the next-gen visuals, and battled countless foes to bring you the definitive list of the top-rated video games of 2025. If you’re looking for your next obsession—or maybe just need to argue about which game truly deserves the Game of the Year crown—you’ve come to the right place. Let’s get into the rankings.
Top-rated Video Games of 2025 to Buy Now
11. Shinobi: Art of Vengeance
(Images credit: Sega)
Shinobi: Art of Vengeance
“The hand-drawn art is stunning, and when you’re flowing through enemies with that buttery-smooth combat, you feel like an unstoppable ninja god”
★★★★⯪ 4.5 / 5
RELEASED: August 2025
GENRE: Action platformer
DEVELOPER/S: Lizardcude
PUBLISHER/S: Sega
PLATFORM/S: Nintendo Switch, PlayStation 4, PlayStation 5, Windows, Xbox One, Xbox Series X/S
You know how some games just look so good you want to frame them? Shinobi: Art of Vengeance is absolutely that game. To be honest, it might be the most gorgeous thing I’ve played all year. The hand-drawn art is stunning, and when you’re flowing through enemies with that buttery-smooth combat, you feel like an unstoppable ninja god. It’s easily a contender for the best action revival of 2025 just for how satisfying the movement feels.
But… we need to talk about the level design. There are moments where it feels like the game is actively trolling you with blind jumps and cheap enemy traps that you can’t possibly see coming. It’s a weird mix where the gameplay is 10/10 with “Game of the Year” material, but those frustration spikes make you want to throw your controller across the room, arguably earning it a spot on the “most rage-inducing” list, too.
10. Monster Hunter Wilds
(Images credit: Capcom)
Monster Hunter Wilds
“it’s an absolute masterpiece; the combat feels smoother than ever, the seamless open world is gorgeous, and being able to switch weapons on the fly”
★★★★☆ 4.0 / 5
RELEASED: February 2025
GENRE: Action role-playing, Adventure
DEVELOPER: Capcom
PUBLISHER: Capcom
PLATFORMS: PlayStation 5, Windows, Xbox Series X/S
Look, Monster Hunter Wilds is easily the most confusing entry on my list because it manages to be the best and the worst experience of 2025 all at once. On one hand, it’s an absolute masterpiece; the combat feels smoother than ever, the seamless open world is gorgeous, and being able to switch weapons on the fly while riding your Seikret is a total game-changer.
But on the other hand? The performance issues on launch were rough enough to make grown gamers cry, with frame rate drops that turned epic hunts into slideshows. Plus, while I love how accessible it is, some hardcore veterans are heartbroken that it feels a bit too easy compared to the grueling grind of older titles. Basically, if you can run it, it’s the best action RPG of the year—if you can’t, it’s just a beautiful heartbreak.
9. Metal Gear Solid Delta: Snake Eater
(images credit: Konami)
Metal Gear Solid Delta: Snake Eater
“it is easily one of the most gorgeous games of 2025; seeing the jungle come to life in Unreal Engine 5 is breathtaking”
★★★★⯪ 4.5 / 5
RELEASED: August 2025
GENRE: Stealth, Action-adventure
DEVELOPER: Konami Digital Entertainment
PUBLISHER: Konami
PLATFORMS: PlayStation 5, Windows, Xbox Series X/S
Metal Gear Solid Delta: Snake Eater is arguably the most divisive title of the year because it manages to be both a masterpiece and a letdown at the same time. On the “Best” side, it is easily one of the most gorgeous games of 2025; seeing the jungle come to life in Unreal Engine 5 is breathtaking, and the new modern control scheme finally makes playing as Snake feel smooth rather than a struggle against your controller.
However, it lands on the “Worst” list for being almost too faithful—underneath those shiny new graphics, you are still dealing with 2004-era level design, tiny rooms separated by loading screens, and enemy AI that feels ancient by today’s standards. It’s a perfect nostalgia trip for fans, but if you were expecting a game that actually plays like a 2025 title, it might feel like a pretty coat of paint on a rusty engine.
8. Hades 2
(Images credit: Supergiant Games)
Hades 2
“a guaranteed Game of the Year contender—and honestly, it deserves that hype for being the best”
★★★★★ 5.0 / 5
RELEASED: September 2025
GENRE: Action role-playing, roguelike
DEVELOPER: Supergiant Games
PUBLISHER: Supergiant Games
PLATFORMS: Nintendo Switch, Nintendo Switch 2, Windows
You can’t write about 2025 without talking about Hades 2, which is basically a guaranteed Game of the Year contender—and honestly, it deserves that hype for being the best because Supergiant Games somehow made the combat even smoother and the characters even more captivating than the first game. The new witchcraft mechanics and the dual paths (down to Tartarus and up to Olympus!) give the loop a massive replay ability boost, making every run feel fresh.
The only real argument for it being the worst is that it followed up a nearly perfect game, and for some players, the new protagonist, Melinoë, doesn’t quite have the same sarcastic charm as Zagreus, plus the new Magick system makes it feel less like pure, uninhibited button-mashing fun until you unlock a ton of late-game upgrades. Basically, its only major flaw is that it has to compete with its own legendary predecessor!
7. Elden Ring Nightreign
(Images credit: Bandai Namco)
Elden Ring Nightreign
“those 45-minute runs where you’re desperately trying to kill a Nightlord with two friends are pure, addictive adrenaline, and the new character classes are fantastic”
You hit on a fun one! The truth is, Elden Ring Nightreign is a total genius move, which is why it’s also so polarizing. It definitely earns the title of Best Game because FromSoftware took the absolute best combat in the business and turbo-charged it into a frantic, roguelike co-op frenzy—those 45-minute runs where you’re desperately trying to kill a Nightlord with two friends are pure, addictive adrenaline, and the new character classes are fantastic.
However, for a lot of veteran fans, it feels like the Worst Game because that high-octane speed completely strips away the original Elden Ring’s best qualities: the quiet, methodical exploration, the slow-burn mystery, and the freedom of an open world. So, it’s either a brilliant, tight, multiplayer spin-off or a betrayal of the Souls formula, depending on who you ask!
6. Hollow Knight: Silksong
(Images credit: Team Cherry)
Hollow Knight: Silksong
“it’s everything fans dreamed of and a true masterpiece of the Metroidvania genre”
Ah, Hollow Knight: Silksong. It’s the game that has been talked about for a thousand years, and now that it’s finally here, the conversation is even louder! On one hand, it’s easily the best game because it absolutely nails the sequel brief: the movement as Hornet is faster, the combat is more complex and acrobatic, and the world of Pharloom is just as gorgeous and massive as Hallownest, backed by another stunning soundtrack—it’s everything fans dreamed of and a true masterpiece of the Metroidvania genre.
However, for many, it’s also not the best game of 2025 because Team Cherry really ramped up the difficulty; between enemies that hit twice as hard and aggressive new boss AI, it feels designed only for the most hardcore players, making the early hours a frustrating, almost punishing experience that sadly turned off some fans who just wanted a cozy return to that beautiful bug world.
5. Clair Obscur: Expedition 33
(Images credit: Sandfall Interactive)
Clair Obscur: Expedition 33
“Visual style is absolutely jaw-dropping—think painting-meets-Belle-Époque-fantasy—and the story is so emotionally deep and unique”
★★★★⯪ 4.5 / 5
RELEASED: April 2025
GENRE: Role-playing, single-player
DEVELOPER: Sandfall Interactive
PUBLISHER: Kepler Interactive
PLATFORMS: PlayStation 5, Windows, Xbox Series X/S
Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 has sparked some huge debates this year! On one hand, it’s arguably the best game of 2025 because its visual style is absolutely jaw-dropping—think painting-meets-Belle-Époque-fantasy—and the story is so emotionally deep and unique that it completely hooks you. Plus, the voice acting is top-tier, making you genuinely care about the characters.
But here’s the flip side: it can also feel like the worst game of 2025 for some players because of its unique active turn-based combat. You have to nail those perfect parries and dodges with strict, almost action-game timing, and if you miss, you get punished hard. For people who just want a chill, purely strategic RPG experience, that demanding rhythm can feel more frustrating than fun, making some folks feel like the gameplay gets in the way of the gorgeous story.
4. Mario Kart World
(Image credit: Nintendo)
Mario Kart World
“it’s pure, polished Nintendo fun that has completely raised the bar for online multiplayer”
When it comes to Mario Kart World, it’s one of those games that simultaneously makes the “Best” and “Worst” lists for completely different reasons. On the one hand, it’s easily the best racing experience of the year thanks to the huge 24-player matches, the gorgeous next-gen visuals, and the totally chaotic, but brilliant, new “Knockout Tour” elimination mode—it’s pure, polished Nintendo fun that has completely raised the bar for online multiplayer.
On the flip side, what drags it down is that ambitious open-world element; the “Free Roam” mode, which was supposed to be a game-changer, sadly feels pretty empty and lacks compelling things to do, making the intermissions between the fantastic structured races feel a little tedious. It’s an all-time classic when you’re on the track, but a bit of a snooze fest when you’re taking the scenic route.
3. Split Fiction
(Images credit: Hazelight Studios)
Split Fiction
“one minute you’re a sci-fi ninja platforming across a dystopian city, and the next you’re a fairy riding a dragon through a fantasy realm—it never runs out of ideas”
★★★★★ 5.0 / 5
RELEASED: June 2025
GENRE: Action-adventure, platformer, multiplayer
DEVELOPER: Hazelight Studios
PUBLISHER: Electronic Arts
PLATFORMS: Nintendo Switch 2, PlayStation 5, Windows, Xbox Series X/S
That brings us to Split Fiction, the co-op adventure that has been everywhere this year, and it’s genuinely the perfect example of a game that’s both incredible and kind of exhausting. The reason it’s the best game of 2025 is the sheer, non-stop creative genius: one minute you’re a sci-fi ninja platforming across a dystopian city, and the next you’re a fairy riding a dragon through a fantasy realm—it never runs out of ideas, and the co-op teamwork is absolutely flawless.
However, this non-stop variety is also why some critics (and maybe your friend who plays it once a month) feel it’s the worst game: the mechanics change so fast that the moment you finally master a cool new ability, the game snatches it away and throws you into a hot dog simulator level. It’s like having twenty amazing little games duct-taped together—brilliant, but sometimes you just want one thing to settle down for a minute.
2. Arc Raiders
(Images credit: Embark Studios)
Arc Raiders
“it absolutely nails the tension of an extraction shooter while making it feel genuinely accessible—you get all the high-stakes thrills without the super-punishing barrier to entry”
★★★★☆ 4.0 / 5
RELEASED: October 2025
GENRE: 3rd-person shooter, multiplayer
DEVELOPER: Embark Studios
PUBLISHER: Embark Studios
PLATFORMS: PlayStation 5, Windows, Xbox Series X/S
You know, picking the ‘best’ and ‘worst’ for Arc Raiders is tough because it’s such a rollercoaster! On one hand, it’s easily one of the best multiplayer experiences of 2025 because it absolutely nails the tension of an extraction shooter while making it feel genuinely accessible—you get all the high-stakes thrills without the super-punishing barrier to entry. The graphics are stunning, the robot AI is smart enough to be terrifying, and the emergent player stories, where you choose to team up or betray others, are totally legendary.
But here’s the rub: for some people, all that accessibility comes at the cost of long-term excitement. Critics point out that the core loop of looting and extracting can start to feel a little too repetitive once the initial novelty wears off, and the gear system, while balanced, lacks the crazy, game-changing variety that keeps players hooked on similar, but more hardcore, shooters. Basically, it’s the best for making the genre fun for everyone, and the worst for those who crave a grind that never ends.
1. Ghost of Yōtei
(Images credit: Sony Interactive Entertainment)
Ghost of Yōtei
“It perfectly refines that samurai revenge fantasy we all crave”
Ghost of Yotei is the game that everyone loves to love and loves to nitpick all at the same time. On the one hand, it’s easily one of the best experiences of 2025 because of the sheer artistic mastery—I mean, the way the wind carries individual flower petals across the snowy peaks of Ezo is just jaw-dropping, and the expanded, brutal combat system with new weapons feels slicker than ever. It perfectly refines that samurai revenge fantasy we all crave.
But here’s the rub: for a lot of players, it’s also the worst game because it played things way too safe. The core structure is basically identical to the first game, and some critics felt the “revenge story” plot was predictable and failed to innovate in a year where other open-world games totally flipped the script. It’s a gorgeous, must-play spectacle, sure, but if you wanted a revolution, you only got a highly polished evolution.
Final Recommendations and In Closing
2025 truly delivered on its promises, giving us endless hours of unforgettable gaming moments. From those massive, heartbreaking story campaigns to the competitive multiplayer titles that stole our weekends, there was absolutely something for everyone. Seriously, my backlog is officially out of control, but in the best way possible! Now that we’ve laid out the definitive list, the tough part is over.
But the discussion doesn’t end here! We want to hear from you. Did your personal Game of the Year make our top-rated list? Which one are you downloading first, or which game do you think we totally missed the mark on? Jump down to the comments section and let the debates begin! When you’re ready to jump into the action, remember to click the links or buttons near your favorite game and start playing your next obsession today. That’s all from me. Take care. Until next time 🙂
