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Jordan Druber

Jordan_Druber

Video producer for 9to5Toys. Contact me at jordans@9to5Mac.com

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Review: The Monster Blaster 3.0 Bluetooth speaker gives off huge boombox vibes [Video]

Bluetooth speakers are a great portable way to bring music to your adventures, outdoor get-togethers, or dance parties. Today we got our hands on the massive new Monster Blaster 3.0. Dubbed “A boombox for the next generation” by Monster, it looks formidable and packs 120W of power, but does the sound live up to the large design and the $350 price tag? Be sure to hit the video below to see all of the details. 

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Review: NZXT Function keyboard and Lift mouse are solid and customizable [Video]

Expanding from PC hardware and services, today NZXT is announcing a whole line-up of peripherals. From the Function mechanical keyboard to the lightweight Lift wired mouse, NZXT is offering plenty of customization along the way. We got our hands on a MiniTKL Function keyboard along with the Lift mouse. Be sure to hit the video below to see all of the details. 

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Review: Is the DockCase M.2 USB-C SSD enclosure the safest in the world? [Video]

Following up a string of successful Kickstarter campaigns, we’ve got our hands on the DockCase M.2 SSD enclosure that packs some impressive performance and functionality. With support for USB 3.2 Gen 2 and hardware protection for power loss, it’s a high-performing enclosure with some safety features for crucial data. Be sure to hit the video below to see all of the details. 

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Review: Destiny 2: The Witch Queen could be the best expansion yet [Video]

Like many, my Destiny 2 enthusiasm has had ups and downs. I’ll usually hop in every other season or expansion and try it out for a bit before inevitably going back to spending my time in another game. I rarely even get close to max power. But with The Witch Queen, things might be different. Thanks to a refreshingly engaging campaign, a new weapon type, and new endgame content, Bungie has knocked it out of the park with its latest expansion. Be sure to hit the video below to see all of the details. 

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Secretlab Titan Evo 2022 review: Numerous updates make this gaming chair my favorite so far [Video]

Secretlab might be one of the most well-known names when it comes to the iconic high-backed style gaming chair. While I’ve tried some from Vertagear and AndaSeat in the past, the $549 Secretlab Titan Evo 2022 is the first time I’ve considered using a so-called “gaming chair” as my main seat for all-day work and play. Be sure to hit the video below to see all of the details. 

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Review: AWOL’s latest UST projector delivers incredible bright and vivid images [Video]

UST or ultra-short throw projectors offer an interesting take as an alternative to large traditional TVs. While I’ve tried a few, the AWOL LTV-3500 is the first time I’ve actually thought this could replace a TV. That probably is mostly to do with the 3500 peak lumens that this UST projector can put out combined with an ALR screen, but the colors are also almost startlingly vivid for a projector. The Indiegogo campaign is in full swing and offers some deep discounts off of the MSRP. Be sure to hit the video below and see all of the details. 

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Logitech G413 SE Review: A simple and solid gaming keyboard [Video]

If the top-tier G915 from Logitech is outside of your budget, one of its latest keyboard offerings might be a better choice. Logitech’s new G413 SE comes in at $80 for the full-size layout and $70 for the TKL flavor but still packs the pedigree of one of the most well-known gaming brands. Be sure to hit the video below to see all of the details. 

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Deity VO-7U Podcast kit review: All you need in one box to start a podcast or stream [Video]

We’ve seen plenty of companies expanding into the podcasting and streaming audio space like NZXT, but today we’re taking a look at another player. The new Deity VO-7U is a dynamic broadcast microphone aimed directly at streamers and podcasters with RGB lighting built-in and some other handy features up its sleeve. Be sure to hit the video below to see and hear all of the details. 

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Audio-Technica ATH-GL3 and ATH-GDL3 review: I really wanted to love these [Video]

One of my first dedicated PC “headsets” was a pair of Audio-Technica ATH-M50x’s that I used for editing with a mod mic attached to the side when gaming. Since then, Audio-Technica has come out with some dedicated gaming headset offerings like the wireless ATH-G1WL we reviewed. Today we’re taking a look at the latest headsets from Audio-Technica – the ATH-GL3 closed-back headset and its open-back variant the ATH–GDL3. Coming in at a much more affordable price point than gaming headsets of the past, how do they stack up? From my experience, it’s a mixed bag. Be sure to hit the video below to see all of the details.

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Review: Trying out Zhiyun’s top-of-the-line Smooth 5 mobile gimbal [Video]

While phones are getting better at stabilizing video by themselves, adding a gimbal can almost always make a vast improvement for smooth camera movements. We’ve tried out some of its smaller entry-level phone gimbals in the past, but today we’re checking out the Zhiyun Smooth 5. Starting at $170, it’s considerably more expensive than the Smooth Q3 that we reviewed last year but packs some more features that take this mobile gimbal to the next level. Be sure to hit the video below to see all of the details. 

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Review: Hands on with the massive Joby Wavo mic drop!

While Joby might be most well known for the Gorillapod made popular by boosted board vloggers like Casey Neistat, recently it has been expanding its lineup of offerings for content creators. We went hands on with the mobile vlogging kit that included a light and a microphone, but now Joby is out with a huge line of audio gear for almost any creator. Be sure to hit the video below to hear how these new Joby Wavo mics sound in action.

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AAXA M7 review: A bright portable projector that won’t break the bank [Video]

Portable projectors are a great way to add some functionality to your entertainment setup. They work great at home plugged in for movie night, but the uses go much further than that. Taking a camping trip and want to watch a movie under the stars? Want to have your friends over for a movie but don’t want to be indoors? With built-in batteries, portable projectors open up a new world of possibilities. We’ve taken a look at our fair share of portable projectors on 9to5Toys, and the AAXA M7 projector offers an impressive feature list for the price. Be sure to hit the video below to see all the details.

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New Wave Toys 1943 X RepliCade Review: Another great retro collectible [Video]

New Wave Toys’ latest miniature retro arcade cabinet is the 1943 X RepliCade overhaul edition. Officially licensed by Capcam, this $170 1/6th scale cabinet features the same impeccable attention to detail that New Wave Toys has put into all of its cabinets in the past. We took a look at the 1942 X RepliCade most recently, but be sure to check out the video and see all of the attention to detail New Wave Toys has put on the 1943 X RepiCade cabinet. 

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Beyerdynamic MMX 100 and 150 Review: Great audio but falls short in comfort [Video]

Beyerdynamic’s most recent additions to its gaming lineup are the entry-level MMX 100 and MMX 150 headsets. With a simple feature set and coming in at $100 and $150 respectively, they have plenty of similar features with a few key differences. With Beyerdynamic’s rich heritage of premium audio, how do they stack up in their price range? Be sure to hit the video below to see all of the details. 

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Review: Wyze Cam Pan v2 adds color night vision and more [Video]

Wyze is quickly becoming a household name in affordable home surveillance, and last year the company updated one of its popular cameras with the Wyze Cam Pan v2. Much like the Wyze Cam v3 that we reviewed, the Cam Pan v2 takes a similar design from its earlier version and upgrades it with a new sensor that can nearly see in color in the dark and the ability to pan 360°. Like many of Wyze’s products, it’s packed with features for the $39.99 price tag ($50 on Amazon). Be sure to check out the video below to see all of the details. 

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DJI Mic wireless kit review: Versatile audio in a premium package [Video]

DJI might be best known for drones and camera stabilizers, but it is also branching out into audio. The DJI Mic kit has everything needed to get great wireless audio from up to two people at the same time. While it’s a great accessory for the recent DJI Action 2, the vast compatibility makes it a great choice for many applications. Be sure to hit the video below to see and hear all of the details. 

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Cherry DW 9100 Slim keyboard and mouse review: A must-have for the office? [Video]

Cherry is probably most known for mechanical switches, but Cherry Americas also carries an impressive line-up of peripherals. One of the latest releases, the Cherry DW 9100 Slim, takes a slim and stylish approach to a keyboard and mouse combo with both a wireless dongle and Bluetooth connectivity. Coming in at $109, is this the best combo for the office? Be sure to hit the video below to see all of the details. 

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How to make the HyperX SoloCast sound better with simple accessories [Video]

I’m a fan of the HyperX SoloCast – I’ve used it in many of my review videos to record my voice. It’s small, simple, sounds great, and it is affordable. My only complaints in my dedicated review were around the stand and impact noise transferring from the desk. Luckily, there are some simple upgrades you get to make the HyperX SoloCast sound better for creators, streamers, podcasters, and those who are working from home. 

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Review: Keeping warm this winter with Fieldsheer heated gear [Video]

Being too cold is an easy way to ruin an outdoor experience in the winter. Fieldsheer is one company working to keep adventurers warm with its line-up of battery-powered heated gear. I got my hands on the top-of-the-line Pinnacle Parka jacket as well as the Desert Storm Heated gloves. Both pieces use Fieldsheer’s mobile warming technology, and so far, they’ve kept me warm on some cold Indiana days and have a stylish design as well. Be sure to hit the video below to see all of the details. 

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NexiGo Quest 2 charging dock review: Show off your headset in style [Video]

With Meta selling over 10 million of their entry-level Quest 2 headsets, the market for accessories is growing. One handy way to store and charge your new all-in-one VR headset and controllers is a dedicated dock. We took a look at the Anker charging dock last year, but now we’ve got our hands on the flashy new NexiGo Quest 2 charging dock. Be sure to hit the video below to see all of the details. 

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Wemax Nova 4K UST projector review: Performance on a budget? [Video]

Ultra-short throw projectors have been gaining traction lately as an alternative to large smart TVs, but they come at a price. The Wemax Nova features Android TV with thousands of apps, can project an image up to 150 inches, and is listed at $2,699 but often features deals to make that more affordable. At the time of writing, the Nova can be purchased for $270 off on Amazon. But before you buy, be sure to check out the video below to see all of the details.

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Bungie 30th Anniversary Pack: A must-have for Destiny 2 players? [Video]

As a gamer in my mid-30’s, I’ve spent a lot of time traversing the worlds that have been created by Bungie: From Myth II: Soulblighter to Oni, and of course, countless hours in Halo and in Destiny. While I don’t have quite the playtime in D2 as I did in D1 or maybe even the original Halo at LAN parties, the Bungie 30th Anniversary Pack for Destiny 2 was a fun nostalgia trip. At $25, spoiler alert, it’s not going to be a must-buy for every guardian in the Destiny 2 universe, but for collectors and hardcore Destiny 2 players, it’s a fun look back mixed with enjoyable new content. Check out the video below to see all of the details. 

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Amazon Echo Frames review: Now with more colors, lens options, and features [Video]

Out with new colors, lenses, and a few new features, we got to go hands-on with the Amazon Echo Frames. Amazon isn’t the only company to offer smart glasses, but the focus here is squarely on Alexa control. So for those who would want an easier way to control Alexa-enabled devices, the Amazon Echo Frames are very comfortable and convenient. Be sure to hit the video below to see more. 

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Review: Dell Ultrasharp Webcam vs. Razer Kiyo Pro [Video]

Whether you’re working from home or firing up the stream, there are some great webcam options out there right now. Go all in with a dedicated DSLR or mirrorless camera, or check out our previous reviews of the Kiyo Pro from Razer and the Elgato Facecam. At $200, Dell’s Ultrasharp Webcam packs many similar features as the offerings from the gaming-oriented marks. Read on to see how it performs, and be sure to hit the video to see examples of it in action. 

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Neat Bumblebee II review: This simple USB mic sounds great [Video]

USB microphones make a great addition to any workspace or gaming rig. They plug right into a computer without the need for any additional hardware and typically have some other built-in features like gain control or a mute button. The Neat Bumblebee II packs some handy features for the very reasonable $100 price point. Be sure to hit the video below to see all of the details and hear some comparisons with other popular USB mics.

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NZXT Foundation PC Review: Stop searching for a GPU and start gaming [Video]

Given the difficulty of snagging a new GPU these days, the NZXT Foundation PC aims to offer high FPS for popular titles in a pre-built PC without the need for a GPU. Using an AMD Ryzen 5 5600G with integrated Radeon graphics, this no assembly required tower looks the part and is a great introduction to PC gaming. So what does it have for the $799 price tag? Be sure to hit the video below to see all of the details. 

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Review: Beyerdynamic Pro X Series brings pro audio hardware to creators [Video]

Beyerdynamic might not bit the first name that comes to mind for creator and gaming audio, but that might be about to change. Its new PRO X creator series aims to give high-quality audio hardware for content creators and streamers that provide both premium audio and all-day comfort. We got our hands on the open-back DT 900 PRO X headphones and the M 70 PRO X dynamic microphone. Be sure to hit the video below to see all of the details of the Beyerdynamic Pro X series. 

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9to5Toys Gift Guide: A mouse for every member of the house

Whether you’re crushing spreadsheets from home or crushing the competition in Battlefield 2042, having the right mouse can be a great addition to your setup. Covering everything from the best all-around budget mouse to high-end wireless gaming, we’ll take a look at some of my top picks in the mouse gift guide. Stick around and be sure to pick up the best mouse for the members of your house. 

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Is Battlefield 2042 worth it? Review from a semi-casual player [Video]

While Battlefield 2042 has been out for a few weeks now, it’s already an evolving game. EA has been releasing multiple updates to both fix bugs and tweak the game in reaction to players’ feedback. Most players who have been able to play so far have had a bug-riddled experience. But does the gameplay make up for the shortcomings of the state of the game at launch? I got to play in the pre-release preview event and have put in about 30 hours since release. Below I’ll share some of my thoughts on my experience so far as a semi-casual player. Be sure to hit the video to see plenty of gameplay.

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XGIMI Aura review: Is an ultra-short throw projector the way to go? [Video]

Projectors are a great way to get a massive theater-like screen in your home, but sometimes it’s inconvenient to mount them or place them at the back of a room where anyone walking around can block the image. That’s where ultra-short throw or UST projectors like the XGIMI Aura come in handy. A 4K laser projector, the Aura sits below a screen on a TV stand to create up to a 150” display while only being about a foot away from the wall and packing 2400 ANSI lumens, integrated Harman Kardon audio, and Android TV OS 10.0. While $2,500 is a lot, a competing TV panel would cost much more for the same size. Be sure to hit the video below to see all of the details. 

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Vissles LP85 review: A worthy Apple Magic Keyboard replacement? [Video]

Vissles is launching their latest keyboard, the ultra-slim, low-profile, clicky switch-wielding LP85 on Kickstarter. I was a big fan of the V84 that we got our hands on earlier this year, and was excited to try out the latest build. This time it’s a low-profile keyboard with clicky optical switches aimed primarily at Apple users with a reasonable price of $99 for early bird backers. There is also a version made for Windows, but the overall design mimics the Apple Magic keyboard. Be sure to hit the video below to see all of the details. 

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Best Xbox Controller for Series X and S [Video]

The Xbox Series X and S have been out for over a year now, and we’ve seen some great options appear for controllers. While there hasn’t been a new Elite to join the ranks yet, there are plenty of interesting third-party options. Let’s compare the ones we’ve gotten in our hands and take a look at the pros and cons of each model to try and find out which is the best Xbox controller. 

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Battlefield 2042 gameplay first impressions from press review event [Video]

With early access for eligible players starting this Friday, EA reached out to quite a few members of the press for a pre-launch review event this week. During this event, we got to try all-out warfare in the form of breakthrough and conquest with up to 128 players, the new extraction-focused hazard zone and even spent some time with the mashup game type portal. All in all, things felt much better than the beta and it was a blast to finally see what Hazard Zone will be like. Be sure to hit the video below to see Battlefield 2042 gameplay from all of these great modes. 

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Forza Horizon 5 kit unboxing with limited edition controller [Video]

Forza Horizon 5 is out today, and while some have had early access with premium packages, the majority of racers will be getting on today, thanks to Game Pass Ultimate. Microsoft and Xbox sent over a pretty unique press kit complete with a limited-edition Forza Horizon 5 controller, license plate frame, and a “road trip” candle that doesn’t smell like any road trip I’ve been on before. Be sure to hit the video below to see all of the details.

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Manfrotto MVG220 Review: Affordable 3-axis gimbal from a well-known brand [Video]

DJI and Zhiyun might be two of the most well-known names for gimbals, but Manfrotto is joining the ranks with the MVG220 and MVG460. While it might be more well known for tripods and monopods, adding gimbal stabilization to its products portfolio is a natural move for Manfrotto. We got our hands on the smaller MVG220 and gave it a spin. Be sure to hit the video below and see it in action.

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Anker Soundcore Frames review: quick-swappable style smart sunglasses [Video]

Anker is throwing their hat into the ring of smart eyewear with the Soundcore Frames. Featuring a unique design that allows for swapping frames out quickly, these new glasses use built-in speakers for an open-air listening experience. Following our announcement coverage, we got to go hands-on with the new shades and quite a few different frame styles. Be sure to hit the video below to see all of the details. 

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Model O- Wireless review: Glorious’ smallest and lightest mouse yet [Video]

Glorious has completed their lineup of mice with wired and wireless versions of their four designs. We’re taking a look at the Model O- Wireless today, but they’ve also opened up pre-orders for the Model D- Wireless. Be sure to hit the video below to check out all of the details of this tiny wireless gaming mouse

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Pwnage Symm 2 review: Lightweight performance and custom looks [Video]

While not as well-known as peripheral giants like Razer and SteelSeries, Pwnage is growing its lineup of offerings with some very unique features with the Symm 2 and Wireless Symm 2. While spec-wise, these mice line up nicely with the competition from Glorious and Razer, the customizability of the Pwnage Symm 2 is what sets it apart. Be sure to hit the video below to see all of the details.  

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Epos H6Pro review: Premium wired gaming headset with incredible detail [Video]

Following the release of the H3 and H3 Hybrid headsets, Epos is back with a more premium headset to replace the GSP 500/600 line. The new Epos H6Pro comes in open or closed acoustic flavors with a great assortment of colors, but it carries a hefty price of $180 for a wired headset. So what does it have to offer for that price? Be sure to hit the video to see all the details. 

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Govee Starpal Pro Review: Portable RGBWW smart desk lamp [Video]

Adding to the extensive line of smart lighting and RGB products, the Govee Starpal Pro packs immense color customization with a built-in battery. This portable lamp features RGBWW lighting, smart controls like sleep times, and voice assistance control. With a 3350mAh battery, the Govee StarPal Pro desk lamp is ready to add some bright and colorful light in any location. Be sure to hit the video below to see all of the details.

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Amazfit T-Rex Pro review: Rugged design ready to track any adventure [video]

When it comes to rigorous outdoor activity, if you’re going to be wearing a watch, you want one that can take the abuse of harsh conditions. That’s what Amazfit has aimed to provide with the T-Rex Pro. A tough watch ready for any adventure, the Amazfit T-Rex Pro has 15 military certifications for durability and features GPS with all of the necessary sensors to track your activities. Be sure to check out all of the details below. 

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SteelSeries Prime Mini Wireless Review: Is it better than the bigger brother? [Video]

Earlier this year SteelSeries released their new competition-focused Prime lineup of peripherals, and now we’re seeing the next additions in the form of the Prime Mini and Prime Mini Wireless mice. I ended up using the Prime Wireless as my main after reviewing that mouse, so needless to say I was pretty excited to check out the Prime Mini Wireless. Would it become my new main? Be sure to hit the video below to see all the details. 

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Abode Cam 2 review: How does it compare to Wyze Cam v3? [Video]

As technology gets more powerful and affordable, we’re seeing some great ways to get into home surveillance without spending a fortune. We’ve checked out plenty of Wyze’s products in the past, but today we have the Abode Cam 2. Coming in at $35, it can stand alone or be combined with other Abode products for a complete home surveillance system. So let’s dive in and take a look at the Abode Cam 2. 

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Hands-on: WD Black SN750 SE Battlefield 2042 edition + open beta first impressions [Video]

We’ve covered a few portable drives from WD_Black in the past, but today we have one of their NVMe drives. The WD Black SN750 SE Battlefield 2042 limited edition comes with the drive as well as a PC download code for the full game. And starting at $90 for the SSD and the game together, it’s a great way to get some fast storage as well as the latest title in the Battlefield franchise. Be sure to hit the video below to check out all of the details.

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Sceptre Nebula 44-inch Monitor review: Ultra-wide gaming on a budget [Video]

There’s no denying the benefit of having an extra-wide monitor at your desktop for working from home, but the benefits exist in the gaming world as well. While not all games and resolutions benefit from a picture twice as wide as the standard 16:9 ratio, they can lend themselves to a more immersive experience. We got the opportunity to check out the Sceptre Nebula 44-inch monitor and see how it performs in both working and gaming environments. Be sure to hit the video below to see all of the details. 

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Hands-on: SteelSeries Ghost limited-edition Apex 7 TKL and Aerox 3 Wireless shine bright [Video]

While RGB generally goes hand-in-hand with gaming peripherals, it can be a polarizing subject. If you’re a fan of adding some color to your setup, though, then the SteelSeries Ghost edition is probably going to tickle your fancy. With a clean design and bright RGB, the SteelSeries Apex 7 TKL and Aerox 3 Wireless Ghost Edition will light up any desktop. Be sure to hit the video below to see all of the details.

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