Reviews

Twelve South has now unleashed its new PlugBug Slim – the latest iteration of its lauded wall charger in a particularly slimline form-factor. Featuring the brand’s usual minimalist approach with clean lines and light “12” branding, the thin PD wall outlet adapter sports USB-C connectivity, a fold-out plug, and can push 20-watts of juice to anything that can handle it. After going hands-on with the new Twelve South PlugBug Slim ahead of today’s official launch, we are now ready to give our impressions of the latest 20-watt PD adaptor. Head below for a closer look. 

You’re reading Tested with 9to5Toys, where we explore everyday tech essentials that make life a bit easier. Browse through our entire guide for all of the latest reviews, and sound off in the comments below if there’s something you’d like to see featured.

After recently going hands-on with the brand’s new felt MacBook and iPad sleeves, it’s time to take a look at the Oakywood Desk Shelf. The handmade wood and steel shelf is designed to sit atop your desk to raise up a pair of monitors or to add some additional organization space to your work area. After putting it to use for a couple weeks now, we are ready to weigh in as part of the latest Tested with 9to5Toys review. Head below for a closer look. 

After taking a look at the Infinity Gauntlet earlier in the week, our LEGO summer 2021 coverage has now landed on one of the more anticipated sets, Bro Thor’s New Asgard. Recreating one of the most iconic scenes from Avengers Endgame, the 265-piece set delivers two exclusive minifigures of Thor and Korg alongside plenty of callbacks to the film. But just how worth adding to your LEGO collection is it? Head below for all of the details.

After being released earlier in the year, Satechi finally got in on the USB-C GaN chargers with its own collection of new offerings. Arriving with premium designs and up to 108W of power to refuel your entire Apple kit, our latest Tested with 9to5Toys review is checking in to see if these are worthy upgrades to your charging setup. Head below for a closer look.

Roccat’s latest headset, the Syn Pro Air, borrows some audio tech from Turtle Beach to edge out the competition. With Superhuman Hearing mode, 3D Audio, and Game Spatializer, this headset can help you hear game-critical sounds when they matter the most, all in a sleek wireless package with plenty of battery life. At $150, how does this new headset perform? Be sure to hit the video below to see all of the details. 

The beginning of the week kicked off our hands-on coverage with all of the new LEGO summer 2021 sets, and now we’ve arrived at one of the more eagerly-awaited creations from the Star Wars universe. Finally shining the spotlight on Clone Force 99, the new Bad Batch Shuttle debuts as one of the lineup’s most unique models with an eye-catching color scheme. Head below for a closer look and all of our thoughts.

At the start of the month, the LEGO Group launched its latest collection of kits, and notably, the new Marvel Infinity Saga collection. While we’ve been working our way through the lineup already, it’s time to turn our attention to arguably the most important relic from the MCU, the Infinity Gauntlet itself. Stacking up to nearly 600 pieces, the chrome gold-plated set assembles the Thanos’ signature accessory in its full glory. Head below for a closer look and all of our thoughts on the new LEGO Infinity Gauntlet.

Incase recently rolled out a new collection of its popular MacBook backpacks and accessories in partnership with BIONIC, resulting in some fresh new marine-inspired colorways. Running with that nautical theming, the collection is notably comprised of 100% recycled plastics, which are repurposed from discarded bottles. With a premium price tag to match the environmental focus, our latest Tested with 9to5Toys review will be getting a closer look at the new debuts. Head below for more.

We began taking a hands-on look at the new summer LEGO Star Wars sets yesterday with the Slave 1, and are now continuing onto another Mandalorian-themed set. Stacking up to over 1,300 pieces, the new Imperial Light Cruiser looks to deliver as the largest kit in the collection and several exclusive minifigures. But will that be enough to justify its steep price tag? Head below for all of the details in our LEGO Imperial Light Cruiser review.

Portable projectors are a great way to take your favorite movies and shows with you. Depending on budget and size limitations, there are some great options for a variety of scenarios. The XGIMI Halo is kind of in the middle with an $800 price point compared to other smaller portable projectors, but with a bright 1080p image, Harman Kardon audio, and smart control via Android TV 9.0, it’s a great addition to an outdoor adventure or even a living room. Be sure to hit the video below to see all of the details. 

Today, Nomad is expanding its stable of iPhone 12 accessories, with its third-ever MagSafe charger add-on. Entering with a premium design comprised of a single block of Zinc Alloy metal, the new Nomad MagSafe Mount Stand arrives to deliver a vertical design to your setup while keeping Apple’s magnetic wireless charger in place on a nightstand or desk. Head below for all of the details and a hands-on look at the new release.

The latest wave of new LEGO Star Wars creations just dropped yesterday, and today we’re taking a look at one of the just released builds. As the latest iteration of Boba Fett’s iconic starship, the new LEGO Slave 1 enters with over 590 pieces in order to deliver a downsized version complete with two notable minifigures. Head below for a closer look at the build, how it compares to previous versions, and our thoughts on whether it’s worth adding to your collection.

Fluance has built a reputation for premium-sounding hardware at an affordable price. We’ve taken a look at one of the turntables, a portable speaker, and the earlier version of the speakers we’re looking at today. With great sound, a few upgrades of the previous generation, and a reasonable $250 price tag, Fluance is poised for another hit with the Ai41 powered bookshelf speakers. Be sure to hit the video below to see all of the details. 

Having been announced earlier in the year, fans of the iconic sitcom Seinfeld have long been waiting for Jerry, George, and the rest of the gang to make their brick-built debut. Now at long last, the LEGO Group has launched its first Seinfeld set, and we’re taking a hands-on look. Packed with plenty of details, references, and all of the hilarity you’d expect, our latest reviews dives into just how brick-worthy this $80 creation is. Head below for all of the details.

When it comes to fast-paced gaming, one of the most important factors in keeping up with the action can be a high refresh rate. One of Monoprice’s latest monitors, the Dark Matter 27-in monitor packs 240Hz for one of the smoothest displays if your computer can push it. Coming in at $300, it’s an affordable way to help get an upper hand against the competition. Be sure to hit the video below to see all of the details. 

Earlier this year, the LEGO Group announced a series of kits that would be re-creating iconic moments from throughout the MCU in its Infinity Saga collection. While we already took a look at the Guardians’ Ship, today we’re diving in for a hands-on review of the wave’s second-largest creation. Due out on the first of next month, we’re seeing if you should spend your cash to bring the LEGO Endgame Final Battle set to your collection when it launches on August 1. Head below for all of the details.

As standing desks become more common, there is a huge variety of companies offering similar products across a wide variety of price ranges. One company, Flexispot, is offering some affordable options when compared with similar competitors like the wildly popular UpLift adjustable desks. At just $590 for this 72” x 30” Flexispot Pro Series standing desk, it’s a great way to add some ergonomics to a home office or studio. Be sure to hit the video below to see all of the details. 

HTC’s Vive Pro 2 pushes the boundary when it comes to resolution and frame rate, but how does the rest of the experience stack up against a more entry-level, do-it-all VR headset? Let’s talk about some of the differences and similarities between the Vive Pro 2, which costs $800 just for the headset, and the standalone Quest 2 that comes in at $300. Be sure to hit the video below to see all of the details.

Apple’s MagSafe wallet entered last year as one of the more exciting iPhone 12 accessories, but was of course paired with a premium price tag to match. The folks at CASETiFY are now looking to deliver much of the same form factor but with a faux leather build that doesn’t skimp out on the quality. Now we’re taking a hands-on look at the new accessory to see if the trade-offs are worth the more affordable price tag. Head below for all of the details on the CASETiFY MagSafe Wallet in our latest Tested with 9to5Toys review.

You’re reading Tested with 9to5Toys, where we explore everyday tech essentials that make life a bit easier. Browse through our entire guide for all of the latest reviews, and sound off in the comments below if there’s something you’d like to see featured.

After featuring the new magnetic Cable Wrangler recently, it’s time to take a closer look at the Smartish MagSafe Gripmunk Case for iPhone 12. This new version of the Smartish classic carries the “super grippy” sides the brand’s previous-generation sheaths are known for as well as protective corners, an overall slim fit, and compatibility with Apple’s magnetic charging and accessory platform. Head below for our Smartish MagSafe Gripmunk Case review in the latest Tested with 9to5Toys feature. 

Continuing its line of products that step away from the battlestation, Razer’s new Opus X takes the ergonomic design of the older, more expensive Opus and simplifies the headphones while coming in at a more affordable price point. With a comfortable, lightweight design, low-latency Bluetooth, and ANC, the Razer Opus X is packed with features for the $100 price point. Be sure to hit the video below to check out all of the details.

If you have any experience playing on a console with a wireless controller, chances are you’ve had to do a quick battery swap at a time that isn’t quite ideal, and then you lose connection and have to reconnect your controller to your system. Well, Otterbox’s latest charging accessory, the Xbox Power Swap controller batteries, helps to remedy that by providing a continuous connection to your console, even when swapping batteries. Hit the video below to see a short hands-on demonstration.

Today, Klipsch is out with two new sound bars, entering at some of the higher tiers of its stable of home theater audio offerings. The new flagship Klipsch Cinema 1200 is joined by the slightly lower-end Cinema 800 to bring Dolby Atmos into your setup complete with wireless subwoofers and up to 5.1.4-channel packages. With home theaters having more value than ever, we’re taking a hands-on look at the new Cinema 1200 to see just how good of a movie night experience Klipsch can deliver with its latest sound bar. Head below for all of the details.

Today, Anker is expanding its stable of charging stations with a new 3-in-1 offering that can refuel all of the gear in your Apple setup. Entering with a desktop- and nightstand-friendly form-factor, the new Anker PowerWave Go delivers a unique design that lets you go from refueling gear at home to charging on-the-go thanks to a convertible 10,000mAh power bank with integrated Qi charger to go alongside the dock itself. Now we’re taking a hands-on look at the latest charger, so head below for all of the details and our thoughts.

Earlier this year, the LEGO Group released the latest version of the galaxy’s most lovable droid, R2D2, as the more detailed recreation yet. Now we’re finally getting to take a hands-on look, to see just how authentic the most recent iteration is. Complete with over 2,300 pieces, the build packs in plenty of details alongside some working features. Head below for a closer look and all of our thoughts on the new LEGO R2-D2.

Today is the launch date of the latest Zelda title on Switch, with Nintendo bringing the contentious Skyward Sword to its hybrid console for the first time. Even more interestingly for many Hyrule fans, Nintendo also took today as an opportunity to launch a pair of all-new Skyward Sword Joy-Cons, complete with a unique color scheme and plenty of details straight out of the series. We’re now taking a hands-on look at the latest Switch controllers, which you’ll find all of the details on down below.

Elgato is one of the biggest names in streaming accessories, but is stepping into a new field with their first webcam deemed the Elgato Facecam. Featuring 1080p60 recording through a Sony Starvis CMOS sensor, it’s packing some great features for the $200 price point. Be sure to hit the video below to see all of the details and how it compares to the similarly priced Razer Kiyo Pro. 

You’re reading Tested with 9to5Toys, where we explore everyday tech essentials that make life a bit easier. Browse through our entire guide for all of the latest reviews, and sound off in the comments below if there’s something you’d like to see featured.

It’s time to take a look at the new Smartish magnetic cable organizer. Known as the Cable Wrangler, this small tabletop stump sits atop your desk (or anywhere else you might want some cable organization) to hold your cables neatly in place with its built-in magnet. The fabric-wrapped magnetic cable organizer even ships with some simple “collars” to effectively magnetize your existing cable collection. And we are about to take a closer look at the whole thing in the latest Tested with 9to5Toys review. 

Last fall, the LEGO Group released one of its usually Comic-Con exclusive sets to the general public, with the limited-edition Black Widow Taskmaster’s Ambush set arriving as a unique creation from the film. Now that the latest addition to the MCU has finally landed in theaters, we’re circling back on the set to see if it’s worth adding to your collection.

Diversifying its audio lineup, the new Razer Barracuda X aims to deliver a versatile wireless headset that works on everything from PCs to Android devices. Featuring some tech from the popular BlackShark V2 line, the Barracuda X is priced at $99 and delivers a high-performance headset. Be sure to check out the video below to see all of the details.

Chances are, if you’ve looked for budget earbuds in the past, you’ve probably heard about EarFun. We’ve reviewed many of its wallet-friendly offerings in the past, with one of my favorite being the Free Pro. Today, we’re talking about the new EarFun Free 2. Priced at just $50, the EarFun Free 2 sits right in line with other budget-minded wireless earbuds. Be sure to check out the video below to see all of the details. 

You’re reading Tested with 9to5Toys, where we explore everyday tech essentials that make life a bit easier. Browse through our entire guide for all of the latest reviews, and sound off in the comments below if there’s something you’d like to see featured.

Earlier in the year, we took a hands-on look at one of Twelve South’s latest wallet cases, and our readers’ reaction was mixed, to say the least. While the BookBook stylings aren’t for everyone, the brand’s new SurfacePad for iPhone 12 looks to be a much less polarizing way to store ID cards, cash, and more with your handset. Sporting an ultra-thin design comprised of leather, our latest Tested with 9to5Toys review looks to see just how much more of a people-pleaser the new Twelve South MagSafe SurfacePad case can be.

You’re reading Tested with 9to5Toys, where we explore everyday tech essentials that make life a bit easier. Browse through our entire guide for all of the latest reviews, and sound off in the comments below if there’s something you’d like to see featured.

Just ahead of summer, Oakywood launched its new felt MacBook and iPad sleeves featuring an eco-friendly leather alternative known as washpapa. After being pleased with our hands-on experience with the brand’s felt AirPods case as well as its walnut and polycarbonate iPhone 12 Bumper Case, it’s now time to dive into the new washpapa felt MacBook and iPad sleeves in the latest Tested with 9to5Toys review. Head below for a closer look. 

eBay’s Certified Refurbished Program launched last fall in order to deliver deep discounts on everything from headphones to drones and more by partnering directly with brands like Bose and DJI. Now after promoting sales from the storefront for quite some time, we’re checking out the program to see just how good the value is. Head below for a closer look at all of the perks as well as our first impressions of the Bose Headphones 700.

RGB can be a polarizing topic. Some people love adding more colorful lighting to their setup, and some might think it’s an eyesore. But however you feel about it, Govee has been providing some great accessories and options for those who are looking to paint their spaces in color. Check out the guide for the latest and greatest deals from Govee. Alongside everything from immersive TV backlighting to kits for cars, the Govee Glide Wall Light is just one of the most recent offerings that easily attaches to a wall to pop some color. Be sure to hit the video below to see all the details. 

LEGO’s Infinity Saga collection imagines several iconic moments from throughout the entire Marvel universe, and the lineup’s flagship creation enters as one of the most detailed kits of the year. Delivering the most authentic recreation of the Benatar to date, the LEGO Guardians’ Ship arrives as one of the year’s most awaited builds. Not slated to launch in the United States until August, we’re taking an early hands-on look to see just how impressive the upcoming model actually is. Head below for all of the details.

You’re reading Tested with 9to5Toys, where we explore everyday tech essentials that make life a bit easier. Browse through our entire guide for all of the latest reviews, and sound off in the comments below if there’s something you’d like to see featured.

With summer travel and trips to the beach on the table in the coming months, having a reliable power bank to keep all of your gear charged up is a crucial aspect of any vacation kit. After taking a much-needed weekend beach trip recently, I’ve landed on the Goal Zero Sherpa 100PD being a must-have for my Apple charging setup. Our latest Tested with 9to5Toys dives into just how compelling of a portable power bank the brand’s off-grid solution is for all of your outdoor adventures. Head below for all of the details.

To promote their big upcoming movie Space Jam: A New Legacy, Warner Brother has teamed up with Xbox to create a classic arcade-style game and release three specially designed wireless Space Jam Xbox controllers. Warner Brothers and Microsoft sent over a care package with all three designs and some other special treats for us to check out. Available July 8 for $70 on Amazon and the Microsoft Store, these controllers boldly display color themes found in the movie. Be sure to hit the video below to check out all of the details.

The Anda Seat T-Pro 2 series is designed for bot gaming and work. I’ve been using it for the past few months and found that it’s good for a multitude of uses, but it also might not be the best depending on your body type. Up front, it’s a comfortable gaming chair that provides unmatched support in many areas, while also being ultra customizable. So without further ado, let’s find out if you’d want to buy the Anda Seat T-Pro 2 office chair in our hands-on review.

After first sharing my thoughts on the over-promised productivity of Amazon’s all-new Fire HD 10, I was challenged to take the companion keyboard accessory for a spin to see if that changed the outcome. After writing this entire review on the tablet, it’s safe to say I may have been at least a little bit too hard on Amazon’s latest release. But how far does the new Bluetooth keyboard go towards turning the Fire HD 10 into a productivity powerhouse? Head below for all of the details.

You’re reading Tested with 9to5Toys, where we explore everyday tech essentials that make life a bit easier. Browse through our entire guide for all of the latest reviews, and sound off in the comments below if there’s something you’d like to see featured.

There are loads of under-desk headphone organization systems available on Amazon and elsewhere, but today we are taking a closer look at the affordable 6amLifestyle Headphone Hanger. The particularly low-cost solution sells for not much more than a couple cups of coffee, but the question is, does it actually hold up and do what it’s supposed to as well? Head below for the latest Tested with 9to5Toys to find out. 

While the world of mechanical keyboard keeps growing, one trend that has been picking up traction is the ability to hot-swap switches. With typing being such a tactile experience, being able to change the sound and feel of a keyboard can make work and play even more fun. Companies like Glorious PC Gaming Race, Keychron, and Drop all have great options, but there are other contenders out there like more affordable options like the Vissles V84 that we’re looking at today. With hot-swap MX-style switches, Bluetooth connectivity, a robust build, and a typing experience that might be the best I’ve tried in a pre-built keyboard, there is a lot to like about the V84. Be sure to hit the video below to see all of the details and hear these switches. 

You’re reading Tested with 9to5Toys, where we explore everyday tech essentials that make life a bit easier. Browse through our entire guide for all of the latest reviews, and sound off in the comments below if there’s something you’d like to see featured.

The arrival of Gallium nitride chargers shrunk USB-C wall adapters into offerings that could fit in the palm of your hand, and now, the latest GaN II releases are looking to deliver even more compact upgrades to your everyday carry. Anker’s latest releases arrive with just that exact emphasis, looking to put an end to compromising over a lightweight carry and high-end features. But do the ultra-compact form-factors on the new Anker Nano II lineup actually make a difference at this point? That’s what our latest Tested with 9to5Toys looks to answer. Head below for all of the details.

Self-lacing shoes might not be as indicative of the future as hoverboards or flying cars, but for those who grew up on the musings of Back to the Future, they’re certainly some indicator of what’s to come from wearable tech. Looking to live up to the future predicated back in the 1980s, Nike has been expanding its lineup of self-lacing Adapt shoes over the past couple of years with various styles. But after wearing the smart shoes for over a year, we’re answering whether they are actually the future-worthy footwear that Nike proclaims, or just a gimmick. Head below for all of the details and our thoughts.

Today, we are taking a hands-on look at the Volonic Valet 3 charging system. This high-end wireless solution takes a cue from fashion design houses and Apple aesthetics to provide a luxurious and elegant charging pad with a price to match. Yes, there are more affordable options out there, but not very many that are quite as gorgeous — this is a true piece of functional art, in my opinion, with a sophisticated look and precision design approach. But is the steep price tag worth the price of entry? Read on for a closer look at the Volonic Valet 3 charging system.