If you’re looking to start this year with one of the top-of-the-line Android smartphones, take the new Galaxy S26 Ultra from Samsung into consideration. From paper, it looks better than ever in terms of design features and the overall look-and-feel of the phone. It’s even promising new AI features and improvements over last year’s model such as more faster battery charge, and better performance overall. If that is the case, let’s take a look at the Samsung Galaxy S26 review and see if it really is worth the hype.
Overview
The Galaxy S26 Ultra is officially here. It’s basically Samsung’s way of showing they can still set the bar for what a “do-it-all” phone looks like in 2026. It keeps that iconic, sharp-edged look but feels a lot more refined in the hand. It’s also slightly lighter and come with a thinner 7.9mm aluminum frame. The biggest feature to look out for this year has to be the world-first ‘Privacy’ display, which lets you hide your screen content from people sitting next to you with just a toggle—perfect for the morning commute.
Under the hood, it packs the new faster Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 that keeps everything flying, and while the battery size stays at 5,000mAh, the jump to 60W fast charging is a massive win, which means shorter charging times. Throw in the smarter ‘Agentic AI’ that proactively helps you manage your day and a camera that pulls in nearly 50% more light than last year, and it feels like a genuinely thoughtful upgrade rather than just a spec bump.
BATTERY: 5000mAh, Supports up to 60W wired, 25W wireless, 4.5W reverse wireless charging
CAMERA: 200 MP wide + 50 MP ultrawide + 50 MP telephoto (5x optical zoom) + 10 MP telephoto (3x optical zoom) | Up to 8K video recording at 30fps | Front camera: 12 MP Wide | Up to 4K video recording at 60fps
OTHER: Weighs 214 g (7.55 oz) | IP68 Water & Dust Resistance | S Pen included | Armor Aluminum Frame | Wi-Fi 7 | Bluetooth 6.0 | USB Type-C 3.2
What’s To Like
1. Impressive Display With New ‘Privacy’ Feature
The Galaxy S26 Ultra’s 6.9-inch Dynamic AMOLED is easily the best screen Samsung has ever put on a phone, but the real showstopper is the new ‘Privacy’ display. It’s a hardware-level feature that essentially acts like a digital privacy screen; it dims the pixels at an angle so “shoulder surfers” can’t see what you’re doing. The best part? It’s completely customizable. You can set it to kick in only for specific apps like your banking or messaging apps, or have it hide your sensitive notifications while the rest of your screen stays bright and vibrant.
2. Better Battery Life With Faster Charging
Even though the S26 Ultra sticks with a 5,000mAh battery, it feels like it lasts significantly longer than its predecessor thanks to the efficiency of the Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 chip. You’re looking at about 16 hours of battery life on moderate use on a single charge.When you do finally run low, Samsung has finally bumped the speeds up to 60W Super Fast Charging 3.0. From battery charging tests done, the S26 Ultra charges from 0 to 80% in just under 30 minutes, and from 0 to full charge takes only 45 minutes, which is a massive relief for anyone used to the slower speeds of older models.
3. Improved Sound Speakers
Samsung has clearly put some work into the audio department this year. The S26 Ultra features a redesigned speaker system that provides much deeper bass and a wider soundstage than we’ve seen before. With support for 32-bit DAC and aptX-HD, the audio quality is crisp enough that you might actually enjoy watching a movie without reaching for your Galaxy Buds. Whether you’re gaming or just catching up on YouTube, the sound is rich, loud, and doesn’t distort even at max volume.
4. Includes S Pen
The fan-favorite S Pen is back and still tucked neatly into the bottom of the frame. This year, the design has been slightly refined with a more rounded end that feels a bit more ergonomic for long note-taking sessions or sketching. It remains the ultimate tool for productivity, allowing you to sign documents on the fly, trigger the camera shutter remotely, or navigate the UI with pinpoint precision that your thumb just can’t match.
5. New Features for Video Creators
For the content creators out there, the S26 Ultra is a massive upgrade. It’s the first Galaxy device to support the APV codec, a professional-grade format that gives you visually lossless video quality—perfect if you do a lot of heavy editing in post.There’s also a new 360-degree Horizontal Lock for the Super Steady mode. You can literally rotate the phone while recording and the footage stays perfectly level, making it feel like you’re using a dedicated gimbal.
6. Thinner & Lightweight Design
Despite having that massive screen, the S26 Ultra is surprisingly comfortable to hold. It’s the thinnest and lightest “Ultra” model Samsung has ever made, measuring just 7.9mm thick and weighing in at 214g. By switching to Armor Aluminum, they’ve managed to shave off some weight while actually improving how the phone handles heat. It feels much more premium and less “brick-like” in the pocket, which is a welcome change for a device this powerful.
7. Includes Impressive AI Features
Samsung is calling this the era of “Agentic AI,” and it’s actually quite useful. The S26 Ultra integrates Google Gemini, Bixby, and Perplexity (triggered by saying “Hey Plex”) to handle complex tasks in the background. My favorite feature is “Now Nudge,” which proactively suggests photos or info based on your conversations so you don’t have to go digging through your gallery. Plus, the new Photo Assist lets you change outfits in photos or restore missing parts of an image—like a cake with a missing slice—just by asking.
8. Improved Overall Performance
Just like last year, Samsung isn’t just using the standard “off-the-shelf” chip everyone else gets. The Galaxy S26 Ultra is rocking an exclusive, overclocked version of the Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5—affectionately dubbed the “for Galaxy” edition. For now, if you’re outside of China, this extra-powerful silicon is a Samsung exclusive.
If you’re into the nitty-gritty specs, the main cores are pushed to 4.74 GHz (up from the usual 4.6 GHz), and the graphics chip gets a nice little bump to 1300 MHz. In plain English? It absolutely crushes benchmarks right now. Whether it’s CPU or GPU tasks, it leaves the standard Snapdragon chips, the Dimensity 9500, and especially the Google Tensor G5 in the rearview mirror. Our test unit was the 256GB base model, which likely uses the lightning-fast UFS 4.2 storage, though honestly, at these speeds, the difference is mostly just academic.
The Deal Breakers
1. Basic Water Resistance
Samsung is sticking with the tried-and-true IP68 rating, which is fine for most people—it’ll survive a drop in the pool or a spilled drink. However, we’re starting to see competitors push into IP69 rating territory, which offers better protection against high-pressure, high-temperature water jets. Even the latest iPhones have improved their depth ratings, while the Ultra stays at the same 1.5-meter limit it’s had for years. It’s not a major dealbreaker, but for a “top-tier” flagship, you’d expect them to keep pushing the envelope here.
2. No Dolby Vision Support
Despite having one of the most vibrant and bright displays on the planet, there is still no Dolby Vision support. Samsung is still pushing its own HDR10+ standard instead. While HDR10+ is great, the reality is that a massive chunk of streaming content on Netflix and Disney+ is mastered in Dolby Vision. You’ll still get a great picture, but you aren’t seeing the absolute peak metadata-driven highlights that the creators intended.
3. Outdated Camera Hardware
On paper, that 200MP main sensor looks unbeatable, but if you look closer, the actual physical size of the sensors is starting to feel a bit small compared to the competition. Many rival Android flagships have moved to massive 1-inch type sensors, which naturally pull in more light and create a much creamier, more professional-looking background blur. Samsung is doing a lot of heavy lifting with AI and software processing to make up for the smaller glass, and while the results are sharp, they can sometimes feel a bit “digitally over-processed.”
4. CPU Slows Done Under Heavy & Prolong Use
The Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 chip is an absolute monster for quick tasks, but it’s a thirsty chip that generates a lot of heat. Even with the upgraded vapor chamber, the S26 Ultra still tends to throttle—or slow down—during long gaming sessions or 8K video rendering. It’s a safety measure to keep the phone from getting too hot to hold, but it means you might see a dip in frame rates after about 20 minutes of intense play. It’s still faster than 99% of phones out there, but it can’t quite maintain that “peak” speed forever.
While the Galaxy S26 Ultra is a new release, the Galaxy S25 Ultra is arguably the smarter pick in 2026, especially if you value premium materials and display clarity. Firstly, one of the biggest surprises this year was Samsung’s move back to Armor Aluminum for the S26 Ultra to reduce the phone’s weight, leaving the S25 Ultra as the last model with the high-end, rugged Titanium frame.
Secondly, early tests reveal that the S25 Ultra’s screen actually handles reflections better. The S26’s new “Privacy Display” feature adds a slight pixel grain and lowers overall peak brightness compared to the crystal-clear panel on the S25.
Thirdly, when you factor in the massive price drops we’re seeing now, you’re getting about 95% of the performance and a more premium build that will cost a lot less, making the S25 Ultra the definitive value king for anyone who isn’t obsessed with having the latest AI features.
While both are absolute powerhouses in 2026, the iPhone 17 Pro Max edges ahead as the better alternative primarily because it offers a more cohesive “Pro” package at a lower price than the Galaxy S26 Ultra.
If you’re into content creation, Apple’s new 48MP triple-lens system and the addition of ‘ProRes’ RAW and ‘Genlock’ support make it a legitimate pocket cinema camera in a way the S26 Ultra’s iterative 200MP sensor doesn’t quite match.
Plus, it has officially claimed the “battery king” title this year—outlasting the competition in nearly every endurance test thanks to the efficiency of the A19 Pro chip and its new vapor chamber cooling. Toss in the seamless fluidity of iOS 26 and a build that feels incredibly premium, and you’re getting a more refined, reliable workhorse that simply gives you more bang for your buck.
While the Galaxy S26 Ultra is undeniably a spec-heavy powerhouse, the Google Pixel 10 Pro XL is the better choice for those who value a phone that feels “smart” rather than just fast.It outshines the competition—quite literally—with a staggering 3,300-nit peak brightness display that makes outdoor viewing effortless.
Beyond the screen, it introduces the PixelSnap magnetic system (Qi2), finally bringing the convenience of magnetic accessories to Android without a bulky third-party case.While Samsung focuses on raw megapixels, the Pixel’s Tensor G5 chip powers a more “forgiving” camera system, using computational magic like 100x Pro Res Zoom and industry-leading motion processing to ensure you actually nail the shot on the first try.
Top it off with the cleanest, most cohesive Android 16 experience and a significantly lower starting price, and you have a flagship that prioritizes real-world utility over benchmark scores.
The Xiaomi 17 Ultra is essentially a professional camera that just happens to make phone calls, easily outclassing the Galaxy S26 Ultra for anyone who values raw hardware power over software gimmicks.
While Samsung sticks with a smaller 200MP sensor, Xiaomi packs a massive 1-inch Leica main sensor and a world-first 200MP mechanical optical zoom that delivers natural bokeh and low-light detail that Samsung’s AI simply can’t replicate.Beyond the lens, it’s a total endurance beast. You’re looking at a 6,800mAh battery with 90W charging that makes the S26 Ultra’s 5,000mAh battery and 60W speeds look surprisingly dated.
When you factor in the 3,500-nit peak brightness and a significantly more competitive price tag, it’s clear that Xiaomi is providing the “Ultra” experience the S26 Ultra only promises on paper.
Verdict
The Galaxy S26 Ultra might not be a massive hardware leap over last year’s model, but it still brings some solid quality-of-life updates to the table. The ‘Privacy’ display is a clever addition yet the screen still looks great. The faster charging and the better battery life is a welcomed relief. The S Pen is still the “secret sauce” that keeps the Ultra lineup in a league of its own. Nothing else really feels like it. The AI features are getting more interesting, though it’s a bit of a bummer that it’s mostly tied to Samsung’s own apps and limited in the languages it speaks.
That said, you can tell Samsung is playing it safe this year. The camera setup feels like a head-scratcher. It’s a bit weird to see them dial things back when they were already fighting to keep up with the competition. While the battery is better, it’s still not quite the “endurance king” we’d love to see at this price point. The shift back to an aluminum frame feels like a bit of a “me too” move following the latest trends in the industry. Honestly, the strategy here feels pretty simple: avoid the expensive, risky hardware changes. Stick to the working formula. Lean hard into flashy features like ‘Horizon Lock’ and the ‘Privacy’ screen that looks amazing in commercials.
Is it a boring update? Maybe a little. But at the end of the day, Samsung has delivered a really well-rounded phone that doesn’t have any glaring weaknesses. It’s a polished, reliable workhorse. Whether that’s worth dropping over $1,000 is the real question, and I guess we’ll see if buyers agree.
So if you’re happy with this review of the Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra, I would really appreciate it if you left a comment here below. Just a few words to say how you feel about the new smartphone, if you’re interested in purchasing it, and also highlight how you feel about the alternative smartphones in the review. And if you’re interested in the Galaxy S26 Ultra, click HERE to find out more and purchasing options. Oh, and if you wanna find out more about the smartphone alternatives then click on the red buttons 😀
Check out the new Resident Evil Requiem trailer now!
If you’re anything like me, you’ve probably spent years vacillating between loving the slow-burn terror of the original Resident Evil games and the high-octane, roundhouse-kicking chaos of the later ones. Well, Capcom is finally trying to give us the best of both worlds. In this Resident Evil Requiem Review, we’re diving into why this latest entry might just be the “infectious mutation” the series needed.
Overview
Resident Evil Requiem (which is effectively RE9) is a single player action horror game set in many takes a fascinating approach to its storytelling by splitting the game between two very different protagonists. First, you have Grace Ashcroft, a new face in the Resident Evil series. She’s an FBI analyst who is definitely not a superhero. Her sections are pure, old-school survival horror—think limited ammo, a tiny inventory, and zombies that are actually terrifying characters rather than just cannon fodder.
Then, the game flips the script by bringing back everyone’s favorite hero,” Leon Kennedy. After Grace spends hours creeping through the shadows of the Rhodes Hill Chronic Care Center, Leon arrives to basically turn the place into a John Wick movie. With an array of firearms, and a trusty hatchet instead of a knife, Leon can fight using parries, melee weapons, even enemy weapons. It’s a dual-playthrough system that feels like a modern, polished version of the classic RE2 structure, taking us from the creepy hospital setting all the way back to where the nightmare began: Raccoon City.
Features
Resident Evil Requiem
Release date: 27th February 2026
Developer/Publisher: Capcom
Genres: Survival horror, Action-adventure
Platforms: PlayStation 5, Nintendo Switch 2, Xbox Series X/S, Microsoft Windows, GeForce Now
If you’re looking for the best highlights, the game’s biggest win is definitely how it balances two totally different vibes without missing a beat.
The setting of the Rhodes Hill Chronic Care Center is an absolute masterpiece in level design—it’s creepy, expansive, and it honestly gives off major classic RPD vibes in the best way possible. I found myself so terrified especially when I end sneaking into a darker section of this place, then having to flee and hide when I spot a larger, more sinister monster. And yet gain satisfaction knowing that I ditched it, then focus on surviving the hordes of zombies.
Another standout feature is the “dual-play style” approach. One minute you’re sneaking around as Grace for that pure, inventory-starved survival horror tension, the next minute you’re cutting loose with Leon’s action-heavy segments. It feels incredibly satisfying and keeps the pace of the game from dragging. Plus, the fact that you can swap between first-person and third-person views on the fly is a huge win for player choice.
Throw in some of the most creative boss fights we’ve seen in years and zombies that actually feel like individuals with “echoes” of their past lives, and you’ve got an experience that feels both nostalgic and totally fresh.
The Deal Breakers
No game is perfect. This review wouldn’t be complete without touching on the few things that didn’t quite land.
Firstly, the biggest letdown for many is definitely the missing Mercenaries mode; it’s a real bummer not to have that classic arcade-style action available right at launch, especially since the combat itself feels so good.
Second, some players have also pointed out that the game feels a bit “front-loaded” with its scares—Grace’s early chapters are terrifying, but once Leon takes over, the vibe shifts so heavily into action that the horror tension starts to evaporate.
Next, there’s also the issue of technical demands; if you’re playing on PC, be warned that those fancy new Path Tracing features will absolutely hammer your frame rate unless you’re running a top-tier rig.
And lastly, while the boss fights are visually stunning, they can occasionally feel a little systematic, often boiling down to the classic trope of just shooting the glowing weak point until the cutscene kicks in.
Final Verdict
Overall, all I can say is that Resident Evil Requiem is an impressive title. It’s exactly what the doctor ordered. It also manages to fix the “identity crisis” the series has been having by simply embracing both sides of its DNA. It’s short, punchy, and doesn’t waste a single second of your time. I thoroughly enjoy is so far, with lots of scary moments, with the new game mechanics such as sharpening the hatchet and the new finishing moves Leon can do, as well as the overall game world design.
Whether you’re here for the classic puzzles and “ink ribbon” style stress or you just want to see Leon shoot down a zombie, grab it from the back and execute his one-of-a-kind suplex into the afterlife. You’ll definitely have a blast. It’s a solid 9/10 and a must-play for anyone who calls themselves a fan of the franchise. Grab some green herbs and get ready—it’s a spooky one!
Now let’s hear from you. What’s your overall impression of the game? Does the dual protagonist playthrough work this time around? Have you played the game yet? Let’s talk all things Resident Evil by adding comments here below. And if you want to get this masterpiece than CLICK HERE or the red button above to find out your purchasing options 😀
We’ve all been there—searching the internet with twenty plus tabs open, trying to find that mythical “unicorn” of a gaming machine that can actually push triple-digit frames without requiring you to take out a second mortgage. Well, the good news is that now it’s 2026, and the “budget” price tag doesn’t mean you’re stuck with a plastic brick that doubles as a space heater anymore.
With the arrival of RTX 50-series entry-level chips and some impressive AI-driven frame gen, the barrier to entry has never been lower. Whether you’re a student dodging finals or a casual player just looking to enjoy the latest AAA titles on high settings, finding great affordable gaming laptops is no longer a pipe dream—it’s just about knowing where the manufacturers hid the best value. As an expert in writing and reviewing laptops, I’ve done the hands-on testing for you. So, if you are ready, let’s dive in and see which of these gaming machines actually deliver the most bang for your hard-earned buck this year.
The Quick List
MSI Katana A15 AI (2024)
Best All-round Affordable Gaming Laptop
image credit: MSI
★★★★⯪ 4.5 out of 5
The MSI Katana A15 AI punches well above its weight class by offering high-end internal specs at a mid-range price point.
The ASUS TUF Gaming A16 (2023) stands out as a top-tier alternative to expensive flagships by delivering high-end “AMD Advantage” performance and exceptional battery life at a fraction of the cost.
The HP Victus 15 (2022) serves as a “stealth” alternative to expensive gaming laptops, designed for users who need a machine that can transition seamlessly from a professional office or classroom environment to a high-intensity gaming session.
The Acer Nitro V16 (2024) has quickly become a standout alternative to expensive gaming laptops by offering a “no-nonsense” approach to modern performance.
Look, I’ve been around the block with hardware for years, and the “budget vs. flagship” debate has changed a lot. It used to be that buying a cheap gaming laptop meant buying a ticking time bomb of plastic hinges and thermal throttling. But in 2026, the gap has closed significantly. Here’s the honest breakdown of why saving your cash is a genius move—and why it might also be a massive headache.
1. Why You Should Save Your Money
The biggest reason to go “budget” is simple: The Silicon Gap is Shrinking. In the old days, a budget GPU was a joke. Now, with tech like ‘DLSS 4’ and ‘Frame Gen’ on the RTX 50-series (or even the older 40-series), an entry-level card can push 80+ FPS in titles that would have melted a laptop five years ago. You’re paying for the exact same frames as the guy with a US$3,000 Razer Blade, just without the aluminum chassis and fancy lights.
Also, budget laptops are surprisingly easier to live with long-term. Expensive flagships often solder everything—RAM, SSDs, even the Wi-Fi card—to make the device thinner. Most “cheap” laptops like the Acer Nitro or MSI Katana are chunky for a reason: they have standard slots. If you want more RAM in two years, you just pop the bottom off and clip then in. You can’t do that with a MacBook Pro though.
2. Why You’ll Probably Regret It
Now, for the “confidence” part: I’ll tell you exactly where they cut the corners, and it’s usually the screen. Manufacturers know you read the spec sheet for “RTX GPU” and “i7 CPU,” so they hide the fact that they’re using a display with the color accuracy of a wet napkin. If you plan on doing any photo editing or even just want your games to look vibrant, a budget screen will look dim and washed out compared to a high-end OLED.
The other deal-breaker is build quality. A budget laptop feels like a toy because it’s made of durable plastic. Over time, those hinges might start to creak, the trackpad might lose its “click,” and the keyboard deck will flex when you’re typing. Plus, the batteries are almost always smaller. While a premium Zephyrus might give you 8–10 hours of office work, a budget rig will usually start hunting for power after 4 hours. Now then, let’s check out some of the best gaming laptops you can get now at a budget price.
Great Affordable Gaming Laptops To Start Your 2026
DISPLAY: 16-inch, WUXGA, IPS, 165Hz, 1920 x 1200 pixels
CPU: AMD Ryzen 7 / Intel Core i7
GPU: NVIDIA GeForce RTX 4050
MEMORY: 16GB / 32GB RAM
STORAGE: 512GB / 1TB PCIe® 4.0 NVMe™ M.2 SSD
BATTERY: 76Whrs, supports up to 135W AC Adapter
OS: Windows 11 Home
PORTS: 1x HDMI; Wi-Fi 6; Bluetooth 5.2; 3x USB type-A; 2x USB type-C; 1x Headphone microphone jack
PROS
Affordable price
Comes with various input ports
Large screen
Fast performance
CONS
Plastic chassis build
Poor webcam
Poor audio speakers
Cooling fans do get loud when pushed
The Acer Nitro V16 (2024) is a bit of a mixed bag, making it both an impressive budget hero and a total pain. On the best side of things, it’s still one of the most affordable ways to get a 16-inch screen with a decent refresh rate, and the battery life is surprisingly solid for a gaming rig—you can actually get through a decent chunk of the day without hunting for a power source. Plus, the 16:10 display gives you that extra vertical room that’s great for both gaming and getting some actual work done.
However, it earns its worst title because of some pretty frustrating corners Acer cut to keep that price low. The build material is made of plastic. The audio speakers are not that great. And hears the big one, the GPU is often power-throttled, meaning it’s not hitting the full performance speeds you might expect from its rivals. It also tends to get pretty loud and hot when you’re really pushing it. So while it’s a steal for the price, you’re definitely reminded of why it was so cheap every time those fans start revving like a jet engine.
DISPLAY: 16-inch, WUXGA, IPS, 165Hz, 1920 x 1200 pixels
CPU: AMD Ryzen™ 7 7735HS
GPU: AMD Radeon™ RX 7600S
MEMORY: 16GB DDR5
STORAGE: 512GB PCIe® 4.0 NVMe™ M.2 SSD
BATTERY: 90WHrs, supports up to 240W AC adapter
OS: Windows 11 Home
PORTS: 1x 3.5mm Audio Jack; 1x HDMI 2.1; 2x USB 3.2 Gen 1 Type-A; 1x USB 3.2 Gen 2 Type-C; 1x Type-C USB 4; 1x RJ45 LAN port
OTHER: Backlit keyboard; 720p HD camera; Dolby Atmos; 2-speaker system; AI noise-cancelling; Wi-Fi 6; Bluetooth 5.3; weighs 2.2 kg (4.85 lbs.)
PROS
Impressive battery life
Solid quality build
Impressive display
Impressive & quiet thermals
Easy upgrade options
CONS
Awkward port layout
Full AMD hardware, no NVIDIA
Driver & software issues
Poor webcam
Attracts fingerprints
The ASUS TUF Gaming A16 (2023) is a total “hero or zero” device. On the plus side, it’s basically the marathon runner of the gaming world; because it uses an all-AMD setup (the “Advantage Edition”). The battery life is absolutely insane for a gaming laptop—you can actually get through a full day of classes or light work without carrying that heavy charging brick. It also feels built like a tank, so you don’t have to worry much about it when it falls on the ground. And the 16:10 screen gives you that extra bit of vertical space that makes scrolling through Discord or documents way nicer.
However, what makes this gaming laptop not so good is the all-AMD tech can be a bit finicky. Even in 2026, the “Smart Access Graphics” can still be buggy, occasionally giving you black screens or weird stuttering until you spend an afternoon wrestling with drivers. Plus, while it’s tough, the plastic chassis is a total fingerprint magnet that looks greasy five minutes after you clean it. And since it lacks an NVIDIA card, you miss out on DLSS, which means it struggles more with the latest AAA titles than its competitors do. Overall, it’s a fantastic “work-hard-play-medium” machine, but if you want a seamless, “it just works” experience, it might drive you a little crazy.
DISPLAY: 15.6-inch, Full HD IPS, 144Hz (1920 x 1080)
CPU: Intel® Core™ i7-12700H
GPU: NVIDIA® GeForce RTX™ 3050Ti
MEMORY: 16 GB DDR4 RAM
STORAGE: 1TB PCIe® 4.0 NVMe™ M.2 SSD
BATTERY: 70Wh,
OS: Windows 11 Home
PORTS: 1x USB Type-C, 2x USB Type-A, 1x audio combo jack, 1x Ethernet Port, 1x HDMI 2.1
OTHERS: Wi-Fi 6E; Bluetooth 5.2; 720p webcam; weighs 2.23 kg (4.96 lbs.), backlit keyboard
PROS
Professional looking design
Solid 1080p gaming
Good heat management
Snappy keyboard & includes Numpad
CONS
Dim display
Short battery life
Plastic build material
Fingerprint & dust magnet
The HP Victus 15 (2022) is such a classic “budget king” that’s still making waves in 2026, but it definitely comes with some baggage. On the “best” side, it’s arguably the most affordable way to get a laptop that doesn’t scream “I’m a gamer” in a meeting; the design is super clean and professional, and for the price, the 144Hz screen and 12th Gen Intel guts still hold up surprisingly well for 1080p gaming and office work. It’s the kind of laptop you can comfortably bring to a library without everyone looking at you, and the thermal performance is actually decent, so it won’t feel like you’re typing on a stovetop while you’re gaming.
However, it hits the “worst” list for some pretty legendary build-quality quirks. The screen wobble is real—if you like typing or have a shaky desk, that display is going to be dancing the entire time. The battery life is also pretty rough, barely scraping past 4 hours on a good day, so you’re basically tethered to a wall outlet. Plus, that “office-friendly” chassis is a total fingerprint magnet, and by 2026 standards, the 250-nit screen feels a bit dim if you’re anywhere near a window. It’s the ultimate “you get what you pay for” machine: great for your wallet, but you’ll definitely be making some compromises on the sturdiness.
DISPLAY: 15.6-inch, Full HD IPS, 144Hz (1920 x 1080)
CPU: AMD Ryzen 9 8945HS
GPU: NVIDIA® GeForce RTX™ 4070
MEMORY: 16GB DDR5
STORAGE: 1TB PCIe® 4.0 NVMe™ M.2 SSD
BATTERY: 3-cell 53.5Whr Li-Polymer, supports up to 200W AC Adaptor
OS: Windows 11 Home
PORTS: 2x USB 3.2 Gen1; 1x USB 2.0; 1x USB 3.2 Gen1; HDMI v 2.1; 1x audio combo
OTHERS: Wi-Fi 6E; Bluetooth 5.3; 720p webcam; weighs 2.23 kg (4.96 lbs.)
PROS
Impressive value for performance
Easy to upgrade
Impressive gaming specs
Keyboard is surprisingly snappy
Smart AI features
CONS
Lackluster dim display
Short battery life
Cheap build material
Gets loud and hot
The MSI Katana A15 AI (2024) is a total “rollercoaster” of a laptop to own in 2026. On its best days, it’s a budget-friendly beast that punches way above its weight class; it was one of the first affordable rigs to really lean into AI-tuned performance with that Ryzen 8000-series chip, and when you flip on the MUX switch, the frame rates in 1080p are genuinely impressive for the price. It’s also surprisingly easy to upgrade—it’s got two RAM and two SSD slots, which is a lifesaver in 2026 since modern games are basically eating storage for breakfast.
On the flip side, it earns its spot on the “worst” list the second you step away from the power outlet. The battery life is… well, it’s pretty much non-existent, often struggling to even hit the four-hour mark for basic web browsing. Then there’s the build quality: it’s very “plastic-forward,” and the screen can feel a bit dim and washed out if you’re used to the more vibrant panels on higher-end machines. It also has a bit of a reputation for being a “jet engine” under load, as the fans have to work overtime to keep those high-TGP components from melting the chassis. It’s the ultimate trade-off—you’re getting top-tier power on a budget, but you’re definitely paying for it in plastic, noise, and a permanent tether to the wall.
Lastly and Recommendations
In the end, picking from the current crop of great affordable gaming laptops is less about finding “the best” and more about choosing which compromise you can live with. Let’s do a quick summary: If you want one with the best cutting-edge value, get the MSI Katana A15 AI. If you want one that offers better battery life, durability and a decent cooling system, get the ASUS TUF Gaming A16. For an affordable gaming laptop with a larger screen, get the Acer Nitro V16, and if you want a bargain gaming machine that draws less attention, get the HP Victus 15.
The bottom line? You don’t need a expensive rig to top the leaderboards. These machines have already proven they can handle the heat—literally and figuratively. So what do you think of this list of affordable gaming laptops? Do they meet your preferences? Which one grabs the apple of your eye? Any gaming laptop you heard of but not on the list? Express yourself with anything gaming laptop here below at the comments section. And don’t forget to click on the buttons to find out more 😀
“If you’re a hardcore PC or PlayStation gamer who pulls all-nighters and hates being tethered to a cable, these are easily one of the best earbuds you can buy now“
So, these Sony INZONE Buds are actually pretty different from your typical earbuds. Instead of just being for your phone or listening to music on the go, they’re really built for PC and console gamers. The “secret sauce” is the USB dongle you plug into your PC or PlayStation 5. It sets up a wireless connection, which is way faster than standard Bluetooth—meaning you won’t deal with that annoying lag while you’re playing. Are these earbuds worth the buy? Let’s explore and see in this review, by breaking it down to see what we like about them, what we don’t like about them, and what other great earbuds are available in the market. So, without wasting any time let’s get to Sony INZONE Buds review.
Overview
Basically, the Sony INZONE Buds are what happens when Sony takes the high-end tech from their best music earbuds and tweaks it specifically for people who enjoy gaming on PC or on PlayStation 5. Instead of just relying on standard Bluetooth (which usually has that annoying lag), these come with a little USB-C dongle. You plug that into your computer or console, and it creates a super-fast connection so the sound hits your ears the exact second something happens on screen.
So, why are these earbuds so impressive you may ask? Firstly, they actually use the same internal drivers as Sony’s flagship XM5 earbuds, so the audio is crisp—great for catching footsteps or just vibing to a soundtrack. Second, these things are marathon runners.You get about 12 hours of sound on a single charge, which is almost double what most “normal” earbuds give you.
Thirdly, they have solid Active Noise Cancellation, so if your fan is whirring or someone’s vacuuming nearby, you can just zone out. And lastly, it comes with spatial audio, which lets you ‘take’ photos of your ears (seriously) with an app to customize the 3D sound made specifically to your ears.
So, what’s the catch? They’re pretty much need a USB dongle to connect. While they’re limited Bluetooth connectivity, they use a newer version called LE Audio, so they won’t even connect to older iPhones or some older Android phones without that dongle plugged in.
Features – Sony INZONE Buds (WFG700NW.CE7)
True wireless in-ear gaming headset
360° spatial sound for Windows PC and PS5
Comfortable fit
Low Latency
Active noise cancelling
Supports 2.4GHz wireless connection via the USB Type-C dongle
LE audio connection
What’s To Like
1. Impressive Battery Life
So, the battery life on the INZONE Buds is actually impressive. Sony claims you’ll get around 11 hours of battery life using the USB dongle and a crazy 18 hours over Bluetooth LE. If you turn off the noise canceling feature, Sony claims you’ll get even more battery life, even reaching up to 24 hours.
But honestly? From our tests done, they actually performed even better than Sony said they would. With the noise canceling turned on, we managed to get over 12 hours on the USB connection. When we switched to Bluetooth, they lasted for more than 20 and a half hours straight—which is literally the best battery life I’ve ever seen on a pair of wireless earbuds. I can’t even imagine how long they’d last if I actually turned the noise canceling off.
The fast charge is legit, too. Sony says 5 minutes of charging gets you an hour of play, but I actually got a little over an hour using the dongle and almost an hour and a half on Bluetooth. Overall, the battery life of the INZONE earbuds goes beyond the expected making it an impressive feature for the earbuds.
2. The Anti-Lag Connection
The standout feature is the USB-C Dongle.While most earbuds use standard Bluetooth, these use a 2.4GHz wireless connection. How does that benefit? It brings latency down to under 30ms.
In plain English, that means when you play ‘Call of Duty’ and you press the R2 trigger button on the controller to ‘fire’, you hear the gun fire sound instantly. There’s no lag between the screen and your ears which is an impressive feature for gaming.
3. Impressive Audio Quality
The overall impression on the sound quality is that they are basically a gaming version of Sony’s top-tier music earbuds. They use the same drivers as the XM5s, so you’re getting a really nice, warm sound that’s great for both gaming and just listening to music. The bass is punchy without being overwhelming, though it doesn’t have that “earth-shaking” rumble some people love.
One thing to note: Keep Sony’s spatial audio software turned off when gaming on PC. Even after the whole process of taking pictures of your ears, it apparently sounds kind of muddy and makes it harder to tell where noises are coming from. You’re way better off using the game’s own 3D audio (like Dolby Atmos) while keeping the buds in standard stereo mode.
If you’re on PlayStation 5, you don’t have to worry as much because the console handles all the 3D audio processing itself, and it sounds way more natural. Here’s a heads-up: if you switch to Bluetooth, the sound quality dips just a little bit—it’s slightly duller and less detailed than when you’re using the USB dongle, but it’s still solid for casual listening.
4. Active Noise Canceling Works Well
This is one of the other best features of these earbuds that we appreciate. Because they’re Sony, the Active Noise Cancellation (ANC) works really well, especially when filtering out unwanted noise from cooling fans or or the click-clack from mechanical keyboards. If you’re in a noisy dorm or house, it completely puts you in the zone.
What’s Not To Like
While the Sony INZONE Buds are top-tier for gaming, they definitely have a few quirks that might be deal-breakers depending on how you plan to use them.
1. Limited Bluetooth Connection
This is by far the biggest headache. Sony decided the earbuds to on support Bluetooth LE (which means Low Energy). The problem here is that most of the devices don’t support this feature.
I remember trying to connect to my iPhone 15 smartphone with no luck, even my Nintendo Switch console didn’t connect at all. Unless your phone is brand new, you can’t just “pair” them like normal headphones. You’re forced to plug in that USB-C dongle even for simple things like listening to a podcast on your phone.
2. Poor Microphone Quality
For expensive earbuds, the mic is a bit of a letdown. While it uses AI to cancel out your background noise (like a loud keyboard), your own voice can end up sounding thin, muffled, or “distant”. It’s fine for a casual Discord chat, but if you’re a streamer or super competitive about your comms, a dedicated headset mic will blow these out of the water.
3. Earbud Case & Charging Limitations
Sony skipped some “premium” features that are standard on other buds at this price. Firstly, There’s no wireless charging. You have to plug them in via USB-C. There’s no dropping the case on a charging pad. Next is the size of the case. Because it has to hold the USB dongle inside, the case is much larger and feels awkward to carry around in your pocket compared to smaller cases like AirPods.
4. Finicky Touch Controls
It has been noted from other reviewers that they often complain about the touch-sensitive areas on the earbuds as being “moody.” It can be hard to tell exactly where to tap, leading to accidental volume changes or missed commands when you’re just trying to adjust the fit in your ear. From our experience, it’s a minor issue. Plus, you can’t fully customize these controls unless you’re on a PC using the INZONE Hub app.
Deciding between these two really boils down to whether you want a “Swiss Army knife” or a high-end audio experience. Let’s break it down.
The SteelSeries Arctis GameBuds are the way to go if you’re a multi-platform gamer. They work with Xbox consoles. They easily connect using Bluetooth for your phone (unlike the Sony buds), and let you take calls without pausing your game. Plus, they have wireless charging and a ton of fun EQ presets.
Whereas the Sony INZONE Buds are for the PC and PlayStation 5 purists. They sound noticeably richer and the active noise cancellation is way better. They also have the edge on battery life, so they’re perfect for those marathon sessions where you just want to disappear into the game.
Bottom Line? Choose the SteelSeries GameBuds if you want one pair of buds that works with everything you own, or choose Sony INZONE Buds if you just want the best sound quality, impressive noise cancelling and long battery life.
These two are basically a toss-up between “feature-packed versatility” and “pure endurance.” Here’s the quick rundown.
The ASUS ROG Cetra SpeedNova are the better “all-arounders.” Unlike the Sony buds, they have standard Bluetooth, so they actually work with your phone or laptop without a dongle. They’ve got cool RGB lighting, a bone-conduction mic for clearer calls, and the case supports wireless charging. Plus, they have multipoint connection, so you can stay connected to your phone and your game at the same time.
If we look at the Sony INZONE Buds, these are built for marathon sessions. The battery life is insane—nearly double what the ASUS offers (12 hours vs. ~7). The noise cancellation is also elite, borrowed from Sony’s high-end music headphones, so they’re much better at blocking out a loud fan or keyboard.
The Bottom Line: Go with ASUS if you want one pair of buds for your phone, PC, and daily life. Go with Sony if you just want the best battery life and silence for long, competitive gaming sessions.
Deciding between these two is a classic “flash vs. stamina” trade-off. Here’s how they stack up.
The Razer Hammerhead Pro HyperSpeed earbuds are for gamers that carve aesthetic and versatility. They’ve got the RGB lighting and, unlike the Sony buds, they use standard Bluetooth, so they actually play nice with iPhones and older Androids. You also get wireless charging and a “Gaming Mode” that keeps things snappy even without the dongle.
If you compare them to Sony INZONE Buds, these are the marathon runners. The battery life is the real winner here—you get over 12 hours of playtime, whereas the Razers usually tap out around 4 to 6. Sony also wins on noise cancellation and mic clarity, making them much better at blocking out a loud room so you can focus.
Go with Razer Hammerhead Pro if you want the RGB glow and need a pair that easily jumps between your phone and your console. Or you can go with Sony’s INZONE buds if you prioritize elite battery life and silence for those “all-day” gaming sessions.
With these two earbuds, it’s basically a battle between “PlayStation ecosystem perks” and “better overall specs”.
With Sony Pulse Explore earbuds, these are really exclusively for the PlayStation 5 superfans, especially if you own a PlayStation Portal. They connect to the Portal without a dongle and use “planar magnetic drivers,” which basically means the audio is incredibly crisp. You can also stay connected to your phone and the console at the same time.
Whereas with Sony INZONE Buds, for most people, these are actually the better pick. They have Active Noise Cancellation (which the Pulse Explore totally lacks) and the battery life is a beast at 12 hours compared to the Pulse’s measly 5 hours. They’re also generally considered more comfortable for long sessions than the bulkier Pulse design.
The Bottom Line: Grab the Pulse Explore if you’re a Portal user or an audiophile who needs that simultaneous Bluetooth connection. Go with the INZONE Buds if you want noise cancellation, comfort, and a battery that actually lasts all day.
Verdict
So, what’s the final verdict? Honestly, the Sony INZONE Buds are a bit of a specialist tool. If you’re a hardcore PC or PlayStation gamer who pulls all-nighters and hates being tethered to a cable, these are easily one of the best earbuds you can buy now.
The battery life is basically a cheat code—it just keeps going—and the active noise canceling is legit enough to let you actually hear what’s happening in-game without your PC fans ruining the vibe.
That being said, they aren’t exactly “all-rounders.” If you were hoping to use these as your main earbuds for your iPhone or for your workouts, the limiting Bluetooth feature and the chunky case will get annoyed fast. You’re really paying for that lag-free dongle connection and the high-end sound drivers.
Bottomline: Buy it if you want earbuds with the best battery life in the game, with top-tier noise canceling, and for mostly gaming on PlayStation 5 or modern PC. Look elsewhere if you need a pair of buds to rule them all (including your phone), or if you’re on a tight budget. They’re a solid investment for your gaming setup, but just make sure your phone is actually compatible before you pull the trigger.
So, what are your thoughts on the Sony INZONE Buds review? Are they the earbuds you’re looking for? Does it meet you expectations as a gamer? If not, what do you thing of the alternatives? Let me know what your thoughts are at the comments here below. And if you wanna find out more about these awesome earbuds, CLICK HERE 😀
Multitasking is a pain. Whether you wanna admit it or not, however we look at it, we just can’t do it nor can we do it perfectly. You probably won’t believe me when I tell you this, but with the Zenbook Duo from ASUS, makes multitasking possible. It’s the most innovative powerhouse laptop which makes multitasking a breeze. It’s an incredibly clever piece of machinery that comes with two touchscreen displays, a whole lot of power, and other amazing features. But is it worth the buy? Let’s check out the review and find out.
Overview
Imagine having a full dual-monitor setup that actually fits in your backpack—that’s basically the ASUS Zenbook Duo (2026) in a nutshell. It’s a total powerhouse featuring two gorgeous 14-inch 3K Lumina Pro OLED touchscreens that now hit a buttery-smooth 144Hz refresh rate, making everything from scrolling to gaming look incredible.
Under the hood, it’s rocking the latest Intel Core Ultra X9 “Panther Lake” chip and a massive 75Wh battery, which is basically the biggest battery you can legally take on a plane.The real “magic” is how versatile it is: you can use it as a standard laptop with the magnetic keyboard snapped on, or pop out the built-in kickstand to stack the screens vertically for an epic mobile workstation.Plus, with its intuitive design and a redesigned hinge that makes the gap between screens almost disappear, it feels less like a gadget and more like a refined, professional tool.
If that doesn’t convince you to get one, let’s find out more on what this amazing laptop can do.
BATTERY: 75WHrs, supports 65W AC Ultra Mini Adapter
OS: Windows 11 Home
PORTS: 1x USB 3.2 Gen 1 Type-A, 2x Thunderbolt™ 4, 1x HDMI 2.1, 1x 3.5mm Combo Audio Jack
OTHER: 1080p webcam, Wi-Fi 7, Bluetooth 5.3, weighs 1.65 kg (3.64 lbs.)
What’s to Like
1. Double the Screen, Zero the Compromise
You’re getting two gorgeous 14-inch 3K OLED displays that both now run at a smooth 144Hz.What makes this year’s model special is the “hideaway” hinge; the gap between the screens has been shaved down to just 8mm, so when you stack them vertically, it feels like one giant, continuous 20-inch workspace. It’s like carrying a dual-monitor office setup in a bag designed for a 13-inch ultra book.
2. The “Panther Lake” Performance Leap
Under the hood, the Intel Core Ultra X9 Series 3 chip is a game-changer.It’s not just about speed—though it’s incredibly fast—it’s the new Arc B390 graphics. You’re getting integrated graphics that can actually keep up with a dedicated RTX 4050, meaning you can edit 4K video or play AAA games on your lunch break without the laptop turning into a space heater
3. A Battery That Actually Keeps Up
Usually, dual screens mean a dead battery by noon, but ASUS managed to cram a 75Wh battery in it—the literal legal limit for airplanes. Combined with the efficiency of the new Intel chips, you can actually get through a full 10-hour workday using both screens, or stretch it to a mind-blowing 32 hours if you’re just using one.
4. The Premium Build
The chassis is made of this unique high-tech ceramic-aluminum hybrid.It’s tougher than standard aluminum, lighter, and completely resists those annoying fingerprints.Plus, the integrated kickstand is rock-solid this year, so you can prop the screens up in “Waterfall mode” on a tiny airplane tray table or a crowded coffee shop counter without it wobbling.
5. The Most Refined Setup on the Market
Everything about the ergonomics feels “solved.” The MagLatch keyboard snaps into place perfectly with magnetic pogo pins, charging itself while you type.When you want to go full workstation, you just pop the keyboard off and use it via Bluetooth. It’s the first time a dual-screen laptop has felt like a finished, polished tool rather than a cool science experiment.
What’s Not to Like
While the ASUS Zenbook Duo (2026) is a total marvel, it’s definitely not the right fit for everyone. If you’re a “minimalist” traveler or someone who just wants a laptop to work flawlessly without a second thought, there are some very real trade-offs to consider before dropping that much cash.
1. The “Chunky” Reality
Even with the new refinements, there’s no getting around the fact that this is a thick device. At nearly 23mm thick and weighing 1.65 kg (3.64 lbs.), it feels significantly bulkier in your bag compared to a svelte MacBook Air or an HP Spectre. If you spend most of your time in “standard laptop mode” with the keyboard snapped on, you’re essentially carrying around a heavy, thick laptop while only using half of what you paid for.
2. Ergonomic Quirks
The detachable keyboard is a cool party trick, but it has its downsides. Because it’s so thin, it lacks the deep travel and “clicky” stability of a traditional high-end keyboard. Plus, some users find the flat profile a bit straining for long typing sessions, and there have been occasional reports of the Bluetooth connection glitching for a split second when you move it away from the screens.
3. The “Dongle Life” Paradox
It’s great that it has an HDMI port, but here’s the kicker: when you have the screens unfolded horizontally in “Waterfall mode,” the HDMI and one of the USB-C ports are actually on the bottom edge facing the desk, making them almost impossible to use without some creative propping up. It’s a bit of a design “oops” for a device marketed at power users.
4. Disappointment Webcam
For a premium 2026 flagship, the 1080p webcam is just… okay. In a world where the HP Spectre has a crystal-clear 9MP sensor and the MacBook has Center Stage, the ASUS camera can look a bit blotchy and soft, especially if your home office lighting isn’t perfect.
5. The Price of Innovation
Let’s be honest—you’re paying a massive “dual-screen tax.” With the 2026 model pushing toward the $2,300 mark, you could easily buy a top-tier traditional laptop plus a high-end external 4K monitor and still have money left over. If you don’t actually find yourself using that second screen every single day, it’s a lot of extra money for a feature that might just end up being a gimmick for your specific workflow.
If you’re torn between these two, it really comes down to whether you want a “transformer” workstation or a refined powerhouse. The Lenovo Yoga Book 9i is the better pick if you prioritize portability and aesthetics; it’s thinner, lighter, and that rotating soundbar hinge produces audio that honestly puts the Zenbook to shame. It feels like a piece of tech art, and the way the screens can fold 360 degrees into a tablet is way more flexible.
On the flip side, it’s a “worse” alternative if you hate setup friction. While the ASUS Zenbook Duo (2026) has a sturdy kickstand built right into the chassis and a keyboard with an actual integrated trackpad, the Yoga Book makes you carry a separate magnetic folio stand and a Bluetooth mouse to get the same level of productivity.Plus, the ASUS packs a much better port selection—including HDMI and USB-A—so you aren’t constantly reaching for a dongle like you would with the Lenovo’s “Thunderbolt-only” lifestyle.
If you’re debating between these two, you’re essentially choosing between a refined masterpiece and a multitasking beast. The HP Spectre x360 14 (2024) is the better choice if you value a seamless, high-quality “daily driver” experience; it’s notably lighter, feels incredibly premium, and features a 9MP webcam that honestly puts almost every other laptop to shame. Its keyboard and haptic trackpad are also best-in-class, offering a tactile stability you just can’t get with a detachable setup.
However, it’s a “worse” alternative if you frequently find yourself wishing for more screen space. The ASUS Zenbook Duo (2026) offers a massive productivity jump with its dual 144Hz OLED displays and a built-in kickstand that lets you stack screens vertically.Plus, while the Spectre is sleek, the ASUS packs a much newer, more powerful processor and a massive 99Wh battery to handle the extra power demands—not to mention a built-in HDMI port so you can finally leave the dongles at home.
If you’re choosing between these two, you’re essentially deciding whether you want a sleek, artist-friendly companion or a dual-screen multitasking beast. The Samsung Galaxy Book5 Pro 360 is the better alternative if you’re a creative who values a “true” 2-in-1 experience; that 360-degree hinge and the included S Pen make it feel like a massive, premium sketchbook that’s incredibly thin and light for a 16-inch device. It also integrates beautifully with Galaxy phones and tablets, which is a huge perk if you’re already in that ecosystem.
On the flip side, it’s a “worse” pick if you’re a power user who thrives on screen real estate. The ASUS Zenbook Duo (2026) gives you two 144Hz OLED displays to work with, a more powerful Intel “Panther Lake” processor, and a monster 99Wh battery that dwarfs the Samsung’s 76Wh cell. While the Samsung is a refined, elegant ultrabook, the ASUS is basically a portable multi-monitor workstation that makes the single-screen life feel a bit cramped.
Choosing between these two is really a battle of “reliable simplicity” versus “infinite screen space.” The MacBook Air 15 (M4) is the better choice if you just want a laptop that stays out of your way; it’s dead silent thanks to its fanless design, and the M4 chip efficiency means you can basically forget your charger for an entire weekend.It’s significantly thinner and lighter than the ASUS, making it the ultimate “throw in your bag and go” machine, and the 12MP Center Stage webcam is miles ahead for video calls.
However, it’s a “worse” alternative if you’re a power multitasker or a display snob. The ASUS Zenbook Duo (2026) gives you two gorgeous 144Hz OLED touchscreens while the MacBook is still stuck at a basic 60Hz. Plus, the ASUS actually respects your peripherals with a built-in HDMI port and USB-A, whereas the MacBook pretty much forces you into the “dongle life” with its two-port limitation.
The ASUS Zenbook Duo (2006): The Verdict
If you’ve been unsure about dual-screen laptops, the 2026 Zenbook Duo is the one that finally makes the two-screen setup feel totally normal and easy to use. It really is impressive at how much ASUS cleaned things up this time. They managed to get rid of that annoying gap between the screens, and the new ceramic-aluminum finish feels great and stays way cleaner than the old plastic ones.
The best part, though, is how fast it is. The new chip inside is a beast—in fact, you can actually play heavy AAA PC games or edit 4K video without it breaking a sweat. Plus, the battery finally lasts all day, so you don’t have to hunt for a wall outlet every three hours. Sure, it’s still a little thick when you fold it up, and it’ll definitely put a dent in your wallet, but if you’re tired of constantly switching tabs on a tiny screen, this thing is a total lifesaver. It definitely is a capable and refined multitasker on the market write now.
So what do you think of the ASUS Zenbook Duo laptop? Is it the ideal laptop you’re looking for? If not, what about the alternatives? Let us know here at the comments below. And if you wanna find out more, then CLICK HERE to see what’s more in store for you 😀
Samsung recently hit the stage at CES to show off its newest laptop lineup: the Samsung Galaxy Book6 laptop series. These 2026 models are all about staying cool, lasting longer, and packing more power than ever before. Whether you’re a casual browser or a heavy-duty creator, there’s a version for you. If this piques your interest, here is the lowdown on what makes these new laptops worth watching.
The Lineup
Samsung is sticking with its three-tier approach, so you can pick the one that fits your lifestyle (and budget): The Ultra, the Pro, and the Standard models. Starting with the ‘Standard’ model, this is the entry budget-friendly model that is available in either the 14-inch or the 16-inch models. Next is the ‘Pro’ model, which comes with better features than the standard model, and also comes in either the 14-inch or the 16-inch models. Then lastly, there is the ultimate powerhouse, the ‘Ultra’ model, which will come with even better features and specs than the ‘Pro’, but will only be available in the 16-inch size. This one will most likely be the most expensive of the three but will be created to cater for those who prefer a laptop with the best performance.
The Specs
The Samsung Galaxy Book 6 laptop series has plenty of options depending on whether you need a portable office or a creative powerhouse. Here is a breakdown of the technical specs for each model to help you see how they stack up against each other.
MODEL
Galaxy Book6
Galaxy Book6 Pro
Galaxy Book6 Ultra
SIZE
14-inch IPS Anti-glare, WUXGA, 1920 x 1200
16-inch IPS Touch, WUXGA 1,920×1,200
16-inch IPS Anti-Glare, WUXGA 1,920 x 1,200
14-inch Touch AMOLED, Anti-reflective
16-inch Touch AMOLED, Anti-reflective
16-inch Touch AMOLED, Anti-reflective, WQXGA+, 2880 x 1800
If you go for the Pro or Ultra models, you’re getting a Dynamic AMOLED 2X touchscreen. These screens are smart—with an adjustable refresh rates to keep the display looking smooth (from 30Hz to 120Hz) based on whether you’re playing a game or just reading an article. Samsung also included ‘Gorilla Glass’ that cuts down reflections by a massive 75%. This means you won’t be staring at your own reflection while trying to work in a bright room. The standard model uses a solid IPS LCD screen, which is great for everyday tasks but lacks the deep blacks of the AMOLED versions.
Serious Power Under the Hood
The Pro and Ultra models are using Intel’s latest “18A” processors. In plain English? The chips are much more efficient, which helps the Samsung Galaxy Book 6 laptop run faster without getting as hot. For gamers & content creators, the Ultra model will include Nvidia GeForce RTX 5060 or 5070 graphics cards, making it a beast for video editing or gaming. For everyday users, the Intel Arc graphics will be included in other models with a guaranteed 70% faster performance boost than last year’s versions. In terms of storage, most models come with plenty of space (up to 2TB) and even have an extra slot if you want to add more storage later.
Battery Life That Actually Lasts
No one likes hunting for a power outlet every two hours. The Pro and Ultra models now promise up to 30 hours of video playback on a single charge. That’s five hours more than last year’s models. If you do run low, the Ultra model supports super-fast charging, getting you to 63% battery in just 30 minutes.
Slim Designs and Better Cooling
Samsung redesigned the insides to make sure these laptops don’t sound like a jet engine taking off. They used a new “vapor chamber” cooling system and bigger fans to move more air quietly. The Pro is the featherweight of the bunch, with the 14-inch version weighing just 1.24kg and measuring a tiny 11.6mm thick. Even the beefy Ultra model stays under 2kg, so it won’t break your back in a backpack.
Sound and Connections
In terms of other features the Ultra features a 6-speaker system with “force-cancelling” woofers. This basically means you get great bass without the laptop vibrating on your desk. And with input ports, you’ll get high-speed Thunderbolt 4 ports on the Pro and Ultra, while the standard model keeps an Ethernet port for those who prefer a wired internet connection.
When Can You Get One?
The Galaxy Book6 series is launching in select markets later this month. We’re still waiting on the official price tags, but expect more info to drop very soon. If you’re looking for a work-specific “Enterprise Edition,” those should start appearing around April. Be sure to check out the review in the near future of the Samsung Galaxy Book6 laptops. Any thoughts you wish to share? Please do so below at the comments section 😀
Remember that sci-fi dream of a device that could be anything you needed it to be? A sleek, pocketable smartphone one moment, then a vast, immersive display the next, transforming effortlessly like something out of Westworld? For years, foldable phones have edged us closer to that vision, but often with compromises. They were either too small when folded, too thick when closed, or still felt like a glimpse of the future rather than the future itself. Well, prepare to be amazed. After years of whispers, patents, and fervent anticipation, Samsung has finally unveiled the Galaxy Z TriFold – and it’s not just an evolution; it is a revolution. Debuting at CES 2026, this device isn’t just a phone that folds; it’s a legitimate 10-inch tablet that miraculously shrinks down to fit comfortably in your pocket.
This isn’t just Samsung adding a third panel; it is them redefining what a mobile device can be. Forget juggling a phone, a tablet, and maybe even a compact laptop. The Z TriFold aims to replace them all, offering an unprecedented canvas for productivity, entertainment, and creation, all within a surprisingly elegant form factor. Is this the moment the traditional tablet as we know it begins its long, graceful fade into history? Let’s dive into our exclusive preview of the Samsung Galaxy Z TriFold and see if the future has truly arrived.
1. What is this Samsung Galaxy Z TriFold?
At its core, the Samsung Galaxy Z TriFold is the world’s first mass-market dual-hinge smartphone, representing the most significant leap in mobile engineering since the original Fold debuted in 2019. While traditional foldables act as a “book” that opens once, the Z TriFold uses a sophisticated triple-panel system that unfolds twice to bridge the gap between a standard smartphone and a full-sized productivity tablet
The magic lies in its dual-rail hinge system.The device features two distinct hinges that allow it to fold in a “Z” shape. More of its features include:
One panel folds outward, allowing a portion of the screen to remain visible as a standard 6.5-inch cover display.
The second hinge folds inward, protecting the massive 10-inch main display when the device is closed.
To prevent accidental damage, Samsung integrated haptic sensors that vibrate and display an on-screen warning if you attempt to fold the panels in the wrong sequence.
When closed, the Z TriFold looks like a slightly “chunky” flagship phone—measuring about 12.9mm thick, which is surprisingly manageable given it’s housing three layers of screen.However, once fully unfurled, the device thins out to a razor-sharp 3.9mm, providing a seamless 10-inch workspace with a 4:3 aspect ratio. This isn’t just a bigger phone; it’s a pocketable workstation designed to run three full-sized apps simultaneously, effectively replacing the need to carry both a phone and a dedicated tablet, such as the iPad or Galaxy Tab.
VIDEO: Up to 8K at 30fps | Up to 4K at 60fps | Up to 1080p at 60fps
OTHER: Crafted Black colour | weighs 309g (10,9oz) | Nano-SIM and eSIM | IP48 dust and water resistant | Aluminum frame with titanium hinges
3. Design & Display: 10 Inches of Innovation
Look, I’ll be honest with you: holding the Galaxy Z TriFold for the first time feels a bit like holding a piece of alien technology. We’ve all seen the “normal” foldables by now, but this is a whole different ball game. It’s like Samsung took the Z Fold7 and said, “Yeah, but what if we gave it a whole extra wing?”
So, how does it actually work? Instead of just opening it like a book, it has this super satisfying dual-hinge system. One side folds in, and the other folds out—literally forming a “Z” shape if you look at it from the top. It sounds like it would be a clunky nightmare, but it’s surprisingly smooth. When it’s closed, it’s about as thick as a standard phone in a heavy-duty case. You definitely know it’s in your pocket, but it’s not the brick you’d expect.
As for the displays, there are two screens to play around with: the cover display and the large main display. When you’re just walking and texting, you’re using a 6.5-inch FHD+ AMOLED cover display. It feels exactly like a regular Galaxy S-series smartphone. No more of that “narrow remote control” feeling from the older Folds. Next is the larger main display. This is where it gets crazy. You unfold it once, then twice, and suddenly you’re staring at a 10-inch QXGA+ AMOLED monster.
The colours are vibrant and punchy, the 120Hz refresh rate makes everything buttery smooth, and because it’s a 10-inch panel, you’re basically carrying an iPad-sized screen in your jeans. Samsung also improved the “Ultra Thin Glass” (UTG) so much that you barely even feel the creases where the hinges are. It just feels like one massive, seamless slab of light.
I know what you’re thinking: “Two hinges? That’s double the trouble.” Samsung clearly thought about that too. They’ve reinforced the frame with ‘armour aluminum’, and they’ve reinforced the hinges with titanium, which have these tiny little brushes inside to sweep out dust every time you fold it. It’s even got an IP48 rating, so if you get caught in a drizzle, you don’t have to have a heart attack.
Under the hood, this thing is an absolute beast. If you’re worried that pushing a massive 10-inch screen would make the phone laggy, let me stop you right there. Samsung didn’t just put a “good” chip in here; they used the Snapdragon 8 Elite for Galaxy. This is basically a customised version of Qualcomm’s top-tier 2026 processor, and it’s fast. Like, “running-a-laptop-from-your-pocket” fast. Whether you’re gaming on that huge internal display or editing 8K video, it doesn’t even break a sweat. To keep everything snappy, Samsung paired it with 16GB of RAM as the baseline. What does that mean for you? You can have a YouTube video playing, a Chrome window open with multiple tabs, and be taking notes in a third app—all at the same time, side-by-side, without a single hiccup. The TriFold runs on Android 16 with Samsung’s new One UI 8.0.
5. Powerful Camera System
Usually, when you get a foldable, you have to settle for “okay” cameras because there’s no room for the big sensors. But Samsung went all out here. They managed to cram their flagship 200MP main sensor into this thing. That 200MP lens is the same beast you’d find on the Ultra S-series smartphones. The detail is insane—you can crop into a photo of a sunset and still see individual windows on a building miles away. The rest of the cameras include a 12MP Ultra-Wide for those epic landscape shots and a 10MP Telephoto with 3x optical zoom. It doesn’t have the powerful 100x “Space Zoom”, but for a phone this thin, it’s still impressive. Lastly, there are actually two selfie cameras—one on the cover screen and one hidden under the massive 10-inch display. They’re both 10MP, which is plenty for crystal-clear Zoom calls or quick TikToks.
With a 10-inch screen, I was worried about the battery, but they’ve packed a 5,600mAh system in here. They actually split the battery into three separate cells (one in each panel) to keep the weight balanced. It’ll get you through a full day of “normal” use, and when you do need to top up, it finally supports 45W Super Fast Charging. As advertised, Samsung says you can get from 0 to 50% in about 30 minutes, which is a lifesaver when you’re on the move.
7. Price and Availability
Okay, let’s talk about the elephant in the room: your wallet. This is bleeding-edge tech, so it’s not exactly “budget-friendly.” Word on the street (and from the initial South Korea launch) is that the Z TriFold is landing around $2,499. Yeah, it’s basically the price of a high-end MacBook Pro and an iPhone combined.
In terms of availability, it’s already selling out in minutes in Korea and the UAE. For those of us in the U.S., Europe and the rest of the world, the “First Look” just happened at CES 2026, and we’re expecting a proper rollout in late Q1 or early Q2 of 2026. So far, it’s looking like “Crafted Black” is the hero colour—a super sleek, matte titanium finish that looks incredibly professional.
8. Final words
So, should you actually get one? If you’re a tech enthusiast who lives for the latest and greatest—or if you’re a mobile professional who’s tired of carrying both an iPad and a phone—this is literally your dream device. The ability to have a 10-inch screen that folds into your pocket is a total game-changer. However, if you’re worried about durability (two hinges mean two potential points of failure) or if $2,500 makes your eyes water, you might want to consider other options, such as the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold7, or the compact Galaxy Z Flip7 . But man, holding the future in your hand feels pretty incredible.
So what’s your take on the new Samsung Galaxy Z TriFold? Is it a smartphone you might buy in the future upon release? What are your overall impressions of this mobile? Are you looking forward to any new upcoming smartphones coming out this year? Please leave us a comment below. Keep your eye on this space as a full review will come later this year. 😀
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 🙂
Is your current phone battery dying by noon, or are you just tired of staring at that cracked screen? I feel you—it’s definitely time for an upgrade. But with so many new releases dropping left and right, trying to pick a winner can feel totally overwhelming. Don’t worry, though, because I’ve done the heavy lifting for you. In this guide, we’re going to cut through the hype and look at the best new cell phones (2025) has to offer, so you can find the perfect match for your life (and your budget).
Quick Summary
Apple iPhone 17 Pro Max
Best Overall Performance
★★★★⯪
Released in September 2025, it features the powerful A19 Pro chip, larger battery, a major physical redesign with vapor chamber cooling, and top-tier photo and video capture capabilities.
Released in February 2025, the ultimate utility phone. Offers a versatile quad-camera system, the built-in S Pen, and the most comprehensive suite of integrated Galaxy AI features.
Introduced in August 2025, it leverages the Tensor G5 chip for unparalleled local AI features, including advanced photo editing and seamless Google Assistant/Gemini integration. It also excels at image processing.
Provides flagship-level performance and a great camera experience at a lower price than the top two. Known for its huge battery and ultra-fast wired charging.
Introduced into the shelves in July 2025, it delivers the best large-screen foldable experience, achieving a thinner, lighter design than previous models. Ideal for power users who need a tablet-sized screen for multitasking.
Released on April 2025, it’s highly rated for its large, capable cover screen, stylish design (often Pantone-matched colors), and clean, simple Android software. A strong contender in the compact foldable market.
Released in November 2024, it’s optimized for mobile gamers with features like extreme performance, massive cooling, customizable controls, and a very high refresh rate display.
DISPLAY: 6.9-inch, Super Retina XDR OLED, 120Hz ‘Promotion’ (1320 x 2868)
CPU: Apple A19 Pro | Apple GPU 6-core
MEMORY: 12GB RAM
STORAGE: 256GB/512GB/1TB/2TB
BATTERY: 4832 mAh (Nano SIM) | 5088 mAh (eSIM) | supports wired, wireless, & reverse wireless charging
CAMERA: 48MP wide + 48MP ultrawide + 48MP telephoto | Up to 4K video capture at 120fps
SELFIE: 18MP wide | Up to 4K video capture at 60fps
OS: iOS 26
Pros
Excellent performance
Incredible camera system
Stunning display
Better cooling features
All-day battery life
Cons
Very expensive
Chunky design
Downgrade material
AI features not groundbreaking
The iPhone 17 Pro Max definitely stands out as one of the top phones of 2025, especially if you’re looking for a beast of a device. It’s packed with a stunning, massive 6.9-inch Super Retina XDR display that gets incredibly bright—perfect for using outside—and the new A19 Pro chip is an absolute powerhouse, making everything from daily scrolling to intense gaming feel super fluid, thanks in part to the vapor chamber cooling that keeps things running smoothly.Plus, the camera system is impressive, featuring a triple 48MP setup that captures fantastic detail, and the improved 8x optical zoom is a game-changer for getting those distant shots.
However, it’s not all sunshine and rainbows; the Pro Max is pretty expensive, and it’s also a thicker and heavier phone than its predecessor, so it might feel a bit chunky in your pocket. The switch from titanium to an aluminum frame has also been a little controversial for some people who preferred the more premium feel and scratch resistance of the older material, and some users feel that the promised Apple Intelligence features still aren’t quite as revolutionary as competitors’ AI.
DISPLAY: 6.78-inch, LTPO AMOLED, 185Hz (1080 x 2400)
CPU: Snapdragon 8 Elite | Adreno 830 GPU
MEMORY: 16GB / 24GB RAM
STORAGE: 512GB / 1TB
BATTERY: 5800mAh | supports 65W, wireless and reverse wireless
MAIN CAMERA: 50MP wide + 32MP telephoto + 13MP ultrawide | Up to 8K video at 20fps
SELFIE CAMERA: 32MP wide | Up to 1080p at 30fps
OS: Android 15
Pros
Excellent gaming performance
Includes AirTriggers for gaming control
Includes high refresh rate display
Massive battery life
Excellent cooling system
Includes dual charging ports
Cons
Camera system not that great
Limited software support
Large & heavy
Expensive price
Aggressive design
If you’re a serious mobile gamer, the Asus ROG Phone 9 Pro is absolutely a top-tier choice for 2025. This phone is a complete performance monster, rocking the super-fast Snapdragon 8 Elite chip and up to a ridiculous 24GB of RAM, making sure every game runs buttery smooth, especially on its lightning-fast 185Hz AMOLED display. Plus, it comes with dedicated gaming features like the customizable AirTriggers (which feel like console buttons!), a huge 5,800mAh battery that can handle marathon sessions, and dual USB-C ports, so you can charge easily even while gaming.
However, this powerhouse has a couple of drawbacks: its advanced camera system, while good, generally can’t quite keep up with mainstream flagships in terms of overall image quality, and Asus only promises a somewhat limited software support window (typically two major Android updates), which is a bit of a bummer for such an expensive phone. It’s also a big, heavy phone, and its gaming aesthetic might be too intense for some people’s everyday style.
MAIN CAMERA: 50MP wide + 48MP telephoto + 48MP ultrawide | Up to 8K video capture at 30fps
SELFIE CAMERA: 42MP ultrawide | Up to 4K video capture at 60fps
OS: Android 16
Pros
Best AI experience
Excellent image quality
Includes 7-years of OS & security updates
Includes wireless charging
Cons
Short battery life
Slow charging speed
eSIM only (in some regions)
If you’re looking for the smartest phone of 2025, the Google Pixel 10 Pro is definitely up there, mainly because of how Google weaves its AI, powered by the new Tensor G5 chip and Gemini, into practically everything you do.You get an unparalleled, clean Android experience right out of the box, fantastic, reliable photos thanks to those top-tier 50MP cameras and legendary processing, and you can’t beat Google’s commitment to the future with a whopping seven years of OS and security updates!Plus, the addition of Qi2 magnetic charging is super convenient for accessories.
However, it’s not perfect: the raw performance of the Tensor G5 still lags behind the latest Snapdragon and Apple chips, especially for intense gaming, and the battery life is noticeably shorter than its main competitors.Charging is also not as fast as other high-end Android phones, and some users in the US might be annoyed that the phone is eSIM-only (no physical SIM tray).
The Motorola Razr Ultra (2025) truly stands out in 2025, especially if you’re into foldable phones that combine style with substance. This phone is all about that amazing external 4-inch OLED display that lets you do so much without even flipping it open—it’s super functional! When it’s open, you get a gorgeous, creaseless 6.9-inch foldable OLED screen that’s a joy to use, and Motorola has really nailed the design with the slimmest profile yet for a foldable. Plus, the new Snapdragon 8 Gen 4 for Galaxy chip inside gives it snappy performance for daily tasks and even decent gaming, and the improved 50MP main camera now takes truly competitive photos.
However, it’s not without its quirks: the battery life, while better, still isn’t fantastic compared to slab phones, and the Razr Ultra (2025) is still pretty pricey. While the main camera is great, the ultrawide and telephoto lenses are still a bit weak, and Motorola’s software update policy isn’t as long as some competitors, typically offering only 3 years of OS updates.
CAMERA: 50MP wide + 50MP periscope telephoto + 50MP ultrawide | Up to 8K video capture at 30fps
SELFIE CAMERA: 32MP wide | Up to 4K video capture at 60fps
OS: Android 15
Pros
Excellent battery life
Elite performance
Excellent photo quality
Superb display
Exceptional durability
Fairly priced
Cons
Large & heavy
Shorter software support
Telephoto camera limitations
No charger in box
The OnePlus 13 is undeniably one of the best Android phones of 2025 because it completely crushes the “fundamentals” while offering a compelling price tag. You get insane, all-day-and-then-some battery life from the huge 6,000mAh silicon-carbon battery paired with blazing-fast 100W wired and 50W wireless charging—say goodbye to battery anxiety. It’s a powerhouse, thanks to the top-tier Snapdragon 8 Elite chip, which makes gaming feel effortless on the gorgeous QHD+ 120Hz display. Plus, the camera system is incredibly solid, featuring three great 50MP lenses that deliver consistent, high-quality Hasselblad-tuned photos.
However, it’s not without compromises: while the camera is good, its telephoto lens lacks the macro (close-focus) capability of some rivals, and the software update promise, while better than before at 4 years of OS updates, still falls short of Google and Samsung’s seven-year commitment. Also, some regional models are missing the charger in the box, which is annoying for a premium phone.
MAIN CAMERA: 200MP wide + 10MP telephoto + 50MP periscope telephoto + 50MP ultrawide | Up to 8K video capture at 30fps
SELFIE CAMERA: 12MP wide | Up to 4K video capture at 60fps
OS: Android 15
Pros
Includes built-in S Pen
Unmatched camera versatility
Longest support window
Best-in-class display
Elite performance
Premium titanium build & durability
Cons
Very expensive
Slow wired charger
No charging in box
Gets warm upon prolong use
The Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra is easily one of the best all-around flagships of 2025 because it just does everything at an elite level. It’s got a gorgeous, massive 6.9-inch QHD+ display with the new Gorilla Armor 2 that virtually eliminates reflections outdoors, making it the best screen you can buy. Performance is rock-solid and future-proofed with the powerful Snapdragon 8 Elite for Galaxy chip, and Samsung matches Google’s long-term commitment with an amazing seven years of OS and security updates! The camera system is phenomenal, featuring a new 50MP ultrawide and the signature 10x/5x zoom combo for unmatched versatility, plus you still get the built-in S Pen for productivity.
However, this powerhouse comes with a few trade-offs: the 45W charging speed feels slow compared to competitors like OnePlus, and for such a pricey phone, Samsung still doesn’t include the charger in the box. Plus, despite having a slightly larger vapor chamber, some users still report that the phone can run noticeably warm during intense gaming or charging sessions.
MAIN CAMERA: 200MP wide + 10MP telephoto + 12MP ultrawide | Up to 8K video at 30fps
SELFIE CAMERA: 10MP ultrawide + 10MP wide cover camera | Up to 4K at 60fps
OS: Android 16, One UI 8
Pros
Crease-less main internal display
Wider & more conventional external display
Top-notch performance
Long software & security support
Cons
Very expensive
Still bulky & heavy
Average battery life
Slow charging
Camera system good but not great
The Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 7 is definitely one of 2025’s most innovative phones, especially if you’re looking for the ultimate device for productivity and media consumption. It brings a stunning, truly crease-less 7.8-inch main display that’s perfect for multitasking with the improved S Pen experience, and the outer display is now wider and feels much more like a regular smartphone. Powered by the Snapdragon 8 Elite for Galaxy, it handles anything you throw at it, and the under-display camera on the main screen is finally good enough for video calls. Plus, Samsung matches Google with a fantastic seven years of software support.
However, all that innovation comes at a cost: it’s still super expensive, and while the camera system is good, it can’t quite match the dedicated zoom capabilities of the S25 Ultra. It’s also still a bulky and heavy device when folded, and the battery life, though improved, can still be a bit tight for heavy users, especially given its advanced charging capabilities are still limited to 45W.
It’s not easier to recommend a smartphone especially from this list of the best top-rated smartphones of 2025. One thing I can say is this: they are all similar in fast performance, great-looking design and have gorgeous screens. Yet if I can be honest with you, I recommend the Galaxy S25 Ultra as the all-round best smartphone for Android users. They rest are all superb smartphones but excel because of their unique quality features.
Choosing a new phone is a big commitment, right? It’s something you carry around every single day, so you want to get it right. Hopefully, this breakdown helped clear up the confusion and pointed you toward a winner. Honestly, whether you go for the camera beast or the battery champion, you really can’t go wrong with any of these top picks.
So let’s hear from you. Which cell phone feature matters most to you this year? Is it the zoom feature or that all-day battery life? Drop us a comment below and let’s chat about it! And if you’ve made up your mind, go ahead and click the buttons above to find out more or to grab your new smartphone and start enjoying that upgrade today. Take care now. Until next time 🙂
Ready to upgrade your digital life? In 2025, tablets are more powerful and versatile than ever, blurring the lines between a simple entertainment device and a genuine laptop replacement. Whether you’re a student who needs a stellar note-taker, a digital artist looking for a gorgeous screen, or just someone who wants a super-portable way to binge-watch a new series, the sheer number of options can be overwhelming. That’s where we come in. We’ve waded through the latest and greatest from Apple, Samsung, and more to bring you a friendly, no-fluff guide to the best tablets (2025) to buy now. We want to assure you that with what we have found, you will find the perfect tablet that fits your budget and, most importantly, your life.
The Best Tablets (2025) Quick List
In a hurry to check out the best tablets? Here’s a brief overview of them on this list below, along with quick links that will let you jump straight down to a short review of whichever tablet caches your eye.
Released in October 2025, the only problem with this new iPad Pro is the high price tag. Either than that, overall, this is the most powerful iPad release right now. Thanks to the new Apple M5 processing chip this one is an even better performer.
Packed with a 14-inch 120Hz OLED display, this is huge tablet, and one of the best performing Android tablets right now. With a fast MediaTek processing chip, smooth scrolling is guaranteed, and with Samsung’s Galaxy Tab S11 Ultra, this is one tablet you cannot miss.
With a powerful Apple M3 processor inside, the iPad Air is the perfect tablet not only for daily use but also for gaming. With a fantastic display, long battery life, and amazing portability, you can practically use it anywhere on the go and be amazed at how much battery power left.
The OnePlus Pad 2 is an interesting tablet because it effectively offers flagship performance at a mid-range price, while introducing software features that actually make Android multitasking useful.
Though the latest iPad 11th generation iPad hasn’t broken any grounds since not much has change from it’s last model, it’s still the simple, most reliable iPad to use tablet today. With good performance, good battery life and a bright display, this iPad is good enough to run your favorite apps for years to come.
The Tab S10 FE Plus from Samsung is a surprisingly good tablet that challenges even the iPad Air (M3). Well-known for its superb battery life, it’s not as powerful as the iPad Air, yet it offers so much more features, such as water resistance, a premium design, multitasking capabilities, and an S Pen in the box. If you haven’t considered it, you really should.
The Legion Tab Gen 3 from Lenovo is an 8.8-inch Android gaming tablet that is slightly larger than the iPad Mini, however, it’s in the same price range. For that price, you a get strong performance tablet, with a solid build and an excellent set of features, which makes it worth considering.
If you’re a Windows user, get the Surface Pro from Microsoft. It’s touch-friendly, solid build, premium design, and it’s recommended for the new Windows 11 operating system. It’s a solid tablet that works well enough for getting things done. Just know that you need to get the detachable keyboard to fully enjoy the experience.
If size is not a problem for you, get the iPad Mini. It’s the most compact iPad today and it works very well for its size. It’s more powerful than the base model iPad, and even though the latest update are underwhelming, this is still a great iPad, especially if you like them small.
If you’re looking for the absolute best value tablet of 2025, the Samsung Galaxy Tab S10 FE+ is the one to beat. It’s essentially the “student special” perfected—you get a massive 13.1-inch canvas that is water-resistant (IP68), which is something even the expensive iPads don’t offer, and it comes with the excellent S Pen right in the box so you don’t have to shell out extra cash just to take notes. It’s fantastic for anyone who wants that premium, large-screen experience for drawing or watching movies without paying the scary flagship prices, plus Samsung’s DeX mode turns it into a surprisingly capable laptop replacement for getting actual work done.
But, to keep it real with you, it’s definitely not the “best” if you care about raw specs. The screen is a standard LCD rather than the stunning, deep-black AMOLED panels you find on the more expensive Tab S10+ or Ultra, and it tops out at a 90Hz refresh rate, so it doesn’t feel quite as fluid as the 120Hz screens on flagship rivals. Also, the Exynos processor inside is decent for everyday stuff, but if you try to run heavy games like Genshin Impact at max settings, you’re definitely going to feel it struggle compared to an iPad Air or the regular Tab S10.
If you just want a reliable tablet that “just works” without draining your bank account, the iPad 11th Gen (2025) is hands down the best value pick of the year. Apple finally listened and bumped the base storage to 128GB, so you aren’t constantly deleting apps to make room for updates, and the A16 Bionic chip (the same one from the iPhone 15) is plenty snappy for streaming, schoolwork, and casual gaming. It’s the perfect “everyman” tablet—great battery life, that modern all-screen design, and a price tag that is actually reasonable for the quality you get.
However, it is definitely not the “best” if you want to future-proof your gear; the biggest letdown is that it does not support Apple Intelligence, so you miss out on all the cool new AI writing and Siri features that the iPad Air and Mini 7 have.Plus, the screen is still unlaminated (there’s a tiny air gap between the glass and the display) and stuck at 60Hz, which looks a bit dated and “floaty” compared to the crisp, laminated screens on almost every other Apple device.
CAMERA: 13MP (wide) main camera | 8MP (wide) selfie camera
VIDEO: Up to 4K video capture at 30fps
WEIGHT: 584g (1.29 lbs)
Reasons to Buy
Bright & Vivid HDR display with high refresh rate
Impressive performance
Strong battery Life with fast recharge
Unique tablet design
Loud speakers
The Dealbreakers
Poor main camera quality
Look, if you want the most bang for your buck in 2025, the OnePlus Pad 2 is arguably the best tablet you can grab. It’s running the Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 chip, which is still an absolute beast for gaming and multitasking, especially with that 144Hz refresh rate that makes everything feel incredibly snappy.The real game-changer, though, is the “Open Canvas” feature—it handles split-screen multitasking way better than the iPad, letting you keep three apps open and “nudged” off-screen without shrinking them down to useless tiny windows.
That said, it’s not perfect. If you’re a screen snob, you might be bummed that it’s using an LCD panel instead of the rich, deep-black OLED screens you get on the Samsung Galaxy Tab S series. Also, the Android tablet app ecosystem still feels a bit like a blown-up phone interface compared to the polished, tablet-first apps on iPadOS, and the lack of a secure fingerprint scanner (it only uses face unlock) can be a minor annoyance for banking apps.
CAMERA: Main 12 MP (wide) | Selfie 12 MP (ultrawide)
VIDEO: Up to 4K video capture at 60fps
PORTS: USB Type-C
WEIGHT: 293g (Wi-Fi) / 297g (Wi-Fi + eSIM)
REASON TO BUY
Lightweight & portable
Impressive performance
Supports Apple Intelligence
Stylus support
Improved base storage
THE DEALBREAKERS
LCD display not OLED
Low refresh rate
No official Magic Keyboard
Slow charging
No FaceID
Awkward camera placement
The iPad Mini (2024) is arguably the best tablet of the year if you prioritize pure portability and power—it’s basically the “Goldilocks” device that fits in a jacket pocket yet packs the serious punch of the A17 Pro chip (the same one in the iPhone 15 Pro), making it an absolute beast for handheld gaming and smooth multitasking with the new Apple Intelligence features. It’s fantastic for reading, taking notes with the new Apple Pencil Pro, or just lounging on the couch without the wrist fatigue you get from holding a massive 13-inch slate.
However, I wouldn’t call it the “best” if you’re a screen snob or a productivity power user; the display is still stuck at a 60Hz refresh rate (so you miss out on that buttery smooth ProMotion scrolling found on the Pro models), and the screen is just too cramped to be a true laptop replacement. Plus, the lack of an official Magic Keyboard case and the awkward portrait-oriented selfie camera make it a tough sell if you plan to use it for a lot of typing or Zoom calls.
The Microsoft Surface Pro 11th Edition is the best 2-in-1 laptop yet, even though it includes some unfinished AI features and pricey accessories. It’s got a sleek design and a super-fast Snapdragon X Elite chip that contributes to the excellent performance. No lag or freezing of apps on this one. And the new ‘Flex’ keyboard, although expensive, it’s a big upgrade from the last model.
The 13-inch OLED display looks bright and gorgeous too. Not as good as other OLED panels, yet better looking than the Surface Pro with IPS LCD screens. The battery life is not as impressive either as other iPads or MacBooks have created a new standard, yet on moderate use, you’re looking at a good day’s power to keep it going.
If you love Windows and want a device that’s both a laptop and a tablet, the Surface Pro 11 is a top choice. But if you’re not a Windows fan, the iPad Pro with the M4 chip is a great, cheaper alternative. If you’re willing to splurge on the whole package, the Surface Pro is a powerful, long-lasting computer perfect for taking on the go.
DISPLAY: 8.8-inch IPS LCD (1600 x 2569) 165Hz refresh rate
PROCESSOR: Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 | Adreno 750 GPU
MEMORY: 12GB / 16GB RAM
STORAGE: 256GB / 512GB
BATTERY: 6550mAh
CAMERA: 13MP (wide) main camera | 8MP selfie camera
VIDEO: Up to 1080p video at 30fps
PORTS: USB Type-C
WEIGHT: 350g (12.35 oz)
PROS
Fast performance
Strong battery life
Includes useful apps
Fairly priced
Compact sleek design
CONS
Dim display
Mediocre camera quality
Alright, if you’re a gamer who wants to dominate on the go, the Lenovo Legion Tab Gen 3 is hands-down the best tablet of 2025. This thing is an absolute beast for mobile gaming—it’s got the latest Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 chip, a super-fast 165Hz LCD display that makes every frame look buttery smooth, and a dedicated vapor chamber cooling system that actually keeps the chip from throttling during intense sessions.
Plus, the built-in haptics are surprisingly good, making games feel more immersive, and its relatively compact size makes it perfect for tossing in a backpack and bringing to a friend’s house for some multiplayer action.
However, let’s be real, it’s definitely not the “best” tablet for everyone. While amazing for games, the software experience outside of gaming feels a bit… unpolished compared to an iPad or even a Samsung tablet.
The camera quality is pretty mediocre, so don’t expect to take great photos with it, and the battery life, while decent, will drain quickly if you’re constantly pushing that high refresh rate and powerful chip. It’s truly a gaming-first device, so if you’re looking for something for productivity, creative work, or just general browsing, you might find its priorities a little skewed.
DISPLAY: 11-inch Liquid Retina IPS LCD (1640 x 2360)
PROCESSOR: Apple M3
MEMORY: 8GB RAM
STORAGE: 128GB / 256GB / 512GB / 1TB
BATTERY: 7606mAh
CAMERA: 12MP (wide) | 12MP (ultrawide)
VIDEO: Up to 4K video capture at 60fps
WEIGHT: 460g (1.01 lbs.)
PROS
Excellent M3 performance
Bright & vibrant screen
Strong battery life
Loud audio speakers
CONS
No major changes from the previous model
Refresh rate not as good as ‘ProMotion’
If you’re hunting for the tablet that hits the perfect balance of power and price in 2025, the iPad Air 11-inch (M3) is arguably the best tablet for 95% of people. It’s a huge win because it packs the insanely fast M3 chip—the same next-gen power that runs the newest MacBooks—meaning it absolutely flies through pro tasks like video editing and heavy multitasking, and crucially, it fully supports all the amazing new Apple Intelligence features.
Plus, it finally supports the awesome Apple Pencil Pro and comes in fun colors, all for a starting price that is hundreds less than the Pro model.
However, it definitely cuts a few corners to keep that price down, which is why it’s not the ultimate “best.” The biggest miss is the display, which is a great laminated LCD (Liquid Retina), but it’s still stuck at a standard 60Hz refresh rate.
This means scrolling and animations just aren’t as silky smooth as the 120Hz ProMotion screen you get on the much more expensive iPad Pro. Also, you’re limited to the slower USB 3 port instead of the faster Thunderbolt port on the Pro, which can slow down things if you regularly work with massive external hard drives
DISPLAY: 14.6-inch Dynamic AMOLED (1848 x 2960) 120 refresh rate
PROCESSOR: Mediatek Dimensity 9400+
MEMORY: 12GB / 16GB RAM
STORAGE: 128GB / 256GB
BATTERY: 11600mAh
CAMERA: 13MP (wide) main camera | 8MP (ultrawide)
VIDEO: Up to 4K video capture at 30fps
WEIGHT: 695g (1.53 lbs.)
PROS
All metal body design
Lightweight & portable
Superb large AMOLED screen with good brightness
Good battery life
Impressive performance
Includes S Pen stylus in box
Impressive quality audio
IP68-rated for water resistance
CONS
No charger included
Expensive
Performance chip not as great as Apple M4
Need both hands to hold, too heavy for one hand
Keypad not included
Fairly slow charger
Hey! If you think “bigger is better” and you need a serious hybrid workstation, the Samsung Galaxy Tab S11 Ultra is definitely the best tablet of 2025. It’s a monster, rocking a gorgeous 14.6-inch Dynamic AMOLED screen that’s amazing for movies and multitasking, and it comes packed with the powerful Dimensity 9400+ chip, 16GB of RAM, and all the cool new Galaxy AI features.
Plus, the S Pen is still included for free, it’s super thin, and it’s even IP68 water-resistant—try taking your iPad Pro near the pool! With DeX mode, you get a real desktop experience that makes it a genuinely versatile laptop replacement.
That being said, it has some major downsides that stop it from being universally the “best.” First off, it’s absolutely gigantic—it’s too heavy and awkward to hold one-handed for long periods, making it more of a desk accessory than a casual couch companion.
While the chip is great, it’s not quite the raw powerhouse that the Apple M4 is, so the iPad Pro still holds the crown for ultimate benchmark performance. Lastly, you have to buy the keyboard separately, which is annoying for such an expensive tablet, and charging that massive 11,600 mAh battery is surprisingly slow, even with 45W charging
DISPLAY: 11-inch (1668 x 2420) / 13-inch (2064 x 2752) Ultra Retina Tandem OLED, 120Hz, HDR10, Dolby Vision
PROCESSOR: Apple M5 | Apple GPU (10-core)
MEMORY: 12GB / 16GB
STORAGE: 256GB / 512GB / 1TB / 2TB
BATTERY: 10290mAh
CAMERA: Main camera 12 MP (wide) | Selfie camera 12 MP (ultrawide)
VIDEO: Up to 4K video at 60fps
PORTS: USB Type-C, DisplayPort
MISC: 444 g (Wi-Fi), 446 g (5G)
PROS
Faster processing chip than M4
Excellent OLED quality display with incredible brightness
Lowest latency for Apple Pencil Pro2
Better GPU performance
Fast internal storage & data transfer
Fast charging
CONS
Very expensive (13-inch even more expensive)
Okay, if you’re asking for the absolute pinnacle of tablet technology in 2025, the Apple iPad Pro 11 (M5) is undeniably the best tablet you can get, hands down. It’s an absolute beast, running the ridiculously powerful M5 chip that leaves every other tablet (and most laptops!) in the dust, especially for video editing, 3D rendering, and intense creative work.
That stunning tandem OLED display is just gorgeous, with perfect blacks and incredible brightness for HDR content, and the new Apple Pencil Pro 2 (or whatever they call it) with even lower latency makes drawing feel like you’re working on real paper. Plus, with the advanced camera system and LiDAR scanner, it’s a dream for AR and professional photography workflows.
However, let’s be real—it’s definitely not the “best” for everyone. The price tag is absolutely insane, especially once you add the Magic Keyboard and Apple Pencil, pushing it into serious laptop territory.
iPadOS, while fantastic, still has some frustrating limitations compared to a full desktop OS like macOS or Windows, so certain professional applications might feel a bit constrained. And honestly, for most everyday tasks like browsing, streaming, or even light gaming, the M5 chip is pure overkill; you’re paying a huge premium for power you might never fully utilize.
Final Recommendations
Ultimately, 2025 has been a fantastic year for tablets, but your final choice really boils down to your budget and what you plan to use your tablet for. If you need the absolute, no-compromise best for heavy-duty professional tasks like 4K editing and 3D work, the iPad Pro (M5) is the clear winner.
For those who prioritize a massive, immersive display for entertainment and flexible desktop multitasking with the included stylus, the Samsung Galaxy Tab S11 Ultra is the ultimate Android machine. However, for most people, the iPad Air 11-inch (2025) hits the sweet spot perfectly, offering the M3 chip power and full Apple Intelligence features without the Pro’s astronomical price tag.
Whichever one of these beasts you choose, you’ll be getting a phenomenal upgrade, so don’t wait—upgrade your digital life today and experience 2025’s tech revolution! We’ve given you our top picks, but we want to hear yours: Did we miss your favorite contender, or which one did you end up buying? Drop a comment below and let us know 😀
The latest notebook designed to amplify your creativity
“if your work demands the very best performance, the ProArt P16 will definitely pay for itself by speeding up your workflow. It truly cements its spot as a top-notch tool for turning ideas into reality”
The world of powerful laptops for aspiring and pro creators turned upside down when Asus released the new ProArt P16 (2025). This isn’t just some small upgrade; it’s a massive deal. As this laptop is built to go head-to-head with the fanciest, most powerful desktop workstations (let’s not forget other powerful laptops!) out there, and it’s even giving Apple’s high-end Pro line some real competition.
Asus completely gets that today’s creative artists, content creators and video editors, need more than just a great graphics card. They need perfect color accuracy, tailored tools, and the freedom to do what they do well easily while traveling or at home. The 2025 model, with the latest AMD Ryzen AI chips and NVIDIA’s RTX 50-series graphics, is definitely gunning to be the best mobile studio you can buy right now.
Specs
DISPLAY: 16-inch, 4K Lumina OLED touchscreen 60Hz (3840 x 2400), stylus support
PROCESSOR: AMD Ryzen™ AI 9 HX 370 CPU; AMD XDNA™ NPU up to 50TOPS NPU
The ProArt P16 delivers the most impressive performance thanks to one of the fastest processors, the AMD Ryzen AI 9 CPU, and one of the fastest graphics card bundle, which is the one of the following GeForce RTX (4070/5060/5070) GPU. Let’s not forget the 32GB (or 64GB) of memory (RAM), and 2-terabytes solid state drive (SSD) for storage of apps, and media. The top-range ProArt P16 model includes the same AMD chip, but with a better RTX 5090 GPU, 64GB of memory, and up to 4-terabytes of SSD storage. That’s insane.
2. Sleek Design
This laptop doesn’t just work well, it looks awesome while doing it! It’s totally matte black everywhere—inside and out—giving it this super sleek, low-key vibe. The hinge is really clever; they call it a “stealth hinge” because it just disappears into the back. It looks totally modern, with only a tiny Asus logo in the corner as the only real flash. Plus, it doesn’t attract smudges and fingerprints which is an excellent bonus.
When you open it up, the keyboard feels great and the backlighting is fantastic. We do wish the arrow keys were bigger, though—they’re just those tiny half-size ones. A numeric keypad would’ve been handy too, but let’s be fair, adding that would have made the whole thing feel way too cramped.
3. Impressive OLED display
With the ProArt P16 you’re getting a stunning 16-inch OLED touchscreen that comes with an outstanding 3840 x 2400 screen resolution. Let’s not forget the screen supports stylus inputs as well. The Asus ‘Lumina’ display panel is gorgeous with its perfect detailed, accurate colors, and 1600 nits of brightness. If you can find us a better OLED display, let me know cos we love how stunning this one looks.
4. Lightweight & Portable & Durable
Get yourself a 16-inch backpack (or use your existing one) cos Asus has managed to keep the weight of the laptop down to 1.85 kgs (4.08 lbs.), which is not that heavy. And it has military-grade durability rating, so yeah, it’s tough, and can take the accidental knock off your table or whatever life throws at it.
5. Includes Asus ‘DialPad’ Feature
The touchpad here is big—like, seriously spacious, which is great for tracking, even if it feels a little too large sometimes. But the real star is that little dial sitting in the top-left corner. That’s the ASUS DialPad, and it’s built right into it.
It’s a total game-changer for creative apps. You just spin the dial to make quick tweaks and adjustments in programs like photo and video editors. For instance, in CapCut (which already comes installed!), you can zoom in and out or step through your video clip frame-by-frame super fast. It also plays nicely with all the Adobe apps.
The best part? You can easily customize what the dial does in the ProArt Creator Hub settings. And get this: even when you’re not in an app, it lets you quickly adjust your system volume and screen brightness without lifting your hand off the pad. Sweet!
Now, about the software that comes with it. You get a bunch of cool stuff like CapCut, Nvidia Studio Suite, plus the Asus file manager (StoryCube) and a creative assistant (MuseTree). Oh, and since it’s a Copilot+ PC, you also get access to all those new Microsoft AI tools. I gave all of these a test run, and they’re definitely helpful additions—they make things easier, even if they aren’t totally mind-blowing.
6. Excellent Heat Management
When it comes to the ProArt P16’s cooling sytem, it’s a bit of a mixed bag. Asus loaded it up with a pretty serious three-fan system and lots of vents to handle the power. When you’re just kicking back and doing some light browsing or writing, it’s super quiet and cool—you can barely hear the “Whisper Mode” running. But, when you fire up those heavy-duty tasks like 3D rendering or some serious gaming, those powerful components really heat up.
The fans definitely have to kick into high gear to keep up, and they get pretty loud—like, definitely noticeable loud. It does the job to keep the chips from frying (with the CPU often hitting the 80-95°C range under max load), but don’t expect silent operation when you’re pushing it hard.
The Deal Breakers
1. Top-range Way Overpriced
Basically, the P16 is a seriously premium machine, and the price reflects that high-end creator status.The configurations start around $1,999 to $2,200 for the entry-level models, which typically include the AMD Ryzen AI 9 processor, 32GB of RAM, and an NVIDIA GeForce RTX 4060 or 4070 GPU. However, once you start beefing it up with more powerful graphics like the RTX 5070 or the top-tier RTX 5090, and double the RAM to 64GB, the price quickly jumps into the $2,700 to $4,000 range and beyond.
This means the ProArt P16 sits squarely in the most expensive bracket, putting it in direct competition with rivals like the fully-loaded Razer Blade 16 and the Apple MacBook Pro. While it offers incredible performance and a gorgeous 4K OLED screen for that price, many reviewers agree that it’s definitely an expensive laptop, and you really need to be a dedicated creator to justify the cost over a slightly more affordable (but less specialized) option.
2. Cooling Fans Get Loud on Heavy Use
When you’re doing light tasks, like just browsing or editing documents, the laptop is actually quite quiet, especially in “Whisper Mode” where noise levels stay around 35 dBA. That’s great. However, the moment you launch those intensive creative applications—like rendering a complex 3D scene, compiling a massive project, or doing some high-end gaming—the cooling fans switch into a much more aggressive profile to handle the heat.
In these demanding scenarios, the fan noise can jump to over 50 dBA and sometimes even higher in Full Performance mode. In short, the cooling fan system does its job keeping the powerful CPU and GPU from overheating, but it trades that performance stability for a significant and often intrusive amount of noise.
3. Short battery life
While it packs a large 90Wh battery, you need to manage your expectations based on what you’re doing. Here’s the breakdown: If you’re just cruising the internet, working on documents, and doing low-power tasks, you can generally expect to see a solid 9 to 10 hours before it gives up. That’s a decent amount of time to be unplugged. For creative work and gaming, this is where it drops fast.
Once you engage that powerful NVIDIA GPU for heavy tasks like editing multiple 4K video streams or intense rendering, the battery life plummets. In real-world testing, people often find they get only 3 to 5 hours of dedicated creative work. So, while it can hang in there for a full day of light work, if you need that maximum creative power, you’ll definitely want to keep that laptop charger handy.
The Other Players: Meet the Alternatives
So, who else is playing in this super-creative-high-power league? If the P16 isn’t quite your jam, or you just want to check out the competition, you’ve got a few heavy hitters to look at:
If you’re not really feeling the ProArt P16, and like using MacBooks, then check out the Apple MacBook Pro 16-inch (M4). It’s usually the better choice, especially if you’re a creative type. Why is it you ask? The battery life is better. Yep. You can literally ditch the laptop charger because as the battery lasts longer than the ProArt P16. No more worrying about the short battery or having to find a power outlet at your nearest cafe. Plus, the whole M4 chip/macOS combo is just so smooth and optimized for stuff like Photoshop and Final Cut; it just works right away. You won’t have to tinker with drivers or settings much, and it stays super cool and quiet even when you’re pushing it hard. The only issue is that the MacBook Pro is more expensive than the ProArt P16, but hey if you can afford it then you’ll reap the benefits.
If you’re not a full-time professional creator who needs every ounce of GPU power, the Microsoft Surface Laptop (7th Edition) is an awesome, super-friendly choice! It’s way lighter and more portable than the big Asus ProArt P16, making it perfect for carrying around all day.
More importantly, thanks to its super-efficient Snapdragon chip, the Surface offers absolutely legendary, all-day battery life—you can seriously leave the power brick at home.Plus, you get that premium, clean Microsoft design and a fantastic, snappy keyboard/haptic trackpad combo that just feels great for everyday work and chilling out.
If you’re leaning toward the Asus ROG Zephyrus G16, it’s a solid move, especially if you want a machine that’s more of an all-star performer. The ProArt P16 is seriously powerful, but the G16 is designed to be faster for everything you see. It packs a lightning-quick 240Hz screen and includes vital features like GSync and a MUX switch, which the ProArt lacks.
That basically means the Zephyrus G16 is engineered to give you smoother frame rates and peak GPU performance for gaming or anything that needs a super-responsive display, making it a better, faster pick for a fun mix of work and play.
If you’re deciding between the Razer Blade 16 and the ProArt P16, the Blade 16 really shines if you want that extra edge in performance and a more polished overall feel. For one, the Blade 16 is a champion for gaming, rocking a 240Hz QHD+ OLED display along with MUX and GSync support, which gives you super-smooth, tear-free visuals—something the ProArt’s 120Hz 4K screen is lacking.
Plus, the Blade 16 lets its GPU run at a higher power limit for better raw performance when you need it. On top of that, the Blade 16 just feels more premium and intentional; it has those little quality-of-life wins like a sturdier screen hinge, a better-designed power plug, and a superior per-key RGB keyboard lighting for maximum customization and flair. It’s simply built to perform and feel good while doing it.
If you’re eyeing both the Dell XPS 16 and the Asus ProArt P16, you might find that the XPS 16 simply offers a more polished, premium experience that feels fantastic in your hands. A lot of people feel the Dell has a much superior and sturdier build quality that just oozes high-end design, right down to the super-smooth haptic touchpad and integrated, minimalist keyboard.
Beyond the sleek look, you might also find that the XPS 16 is a better partner for all-day use, as some folks have reported seriously impeccable battery life for non-heavy work, making it an excellent companion when you’re away from an outlet. It’s the laptop you choose when a reliable, beautifully constructed machine that looks and feels top-tier is your absolute top priority.
Final Verdict
So, is the ProArt P16 worth the mountain of cash? If you’re a professional designer, 3D artist, or video editor who absolutely needs desktop power but has to work on the go, then yes, it’s a no-brainer. This machine is built specifically for you. The combination of its raw processing power, the groundbreaking AI chip, and that stunning, color-accurate OLED screen makes it one of the most compelling portable workstations ever built.
It’s a big investment and pricey (especially the top range model), but if your work demands the very best performance, the ProArt P16 will definitely pay for itself by speeding up your workflow. It truly cements its spot as a top-notch tool for turning ideas into reality. Ready to upgrade your workflow? Stop thinking and seriously just grab this laptop—it’s the best tool your creativity can ask for.
Thank you very much for checking out the Asus ProArt P16 (2025) review. We’d love for you to express yourself and to hear what you think. Have you tried the P16 or one of the alternatives? Drop your thoughts and questions in the comments section below 😀
