Review

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. 

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.

Satechi recently launched its latest iPad accessory, combining a desktop perch and a 6-in-1 USB-C dock with its new Stand and Hub. Looking to match the iPad Pro with a premium aluminum build, we’re taking a hands-on look at the recent release to see just how good of a desktop companion the hybrid accessory can offer. Head below for all of our first impressions on the Satechi Stand and Hub.

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.

Earlier this year, Nomad launched its latest collection of Apple Watch bands to deliver a series of premium offerings. Comprised of either titanium or steel, the latest releases look to match Apple’s in-house styles at more affordable price tags. So does Nomad deliver? That’s what we’re finding out in our latest Tested with 9to5Toys. Head below for all of the details on Nomad’s Titanium Apple Watch Band.

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. 

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.

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.

With a rich history working with Sennheiser for gaming audio, Epos has developed some great-sounding headsets but is now branching out into some other audio products with the B20 streaming microphone. With a sleek modern design, built-in audio out, and plenty of physical controls, the B20 seems to be a great choice for creators and streamers, but at $200, how does it perform? Be sure to hit the video below to check out all the details.

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.

Out with its second generation, Amazon has made some small upgrades and updates on two of its Alexa-powered smart displays. The Echo Show 5 and Show 8 2nd gen both offer increases in camera resolution, though more updates will be noticeable on the larger screen. Be sure to hit the video below to take a peek at which one might best fit your needs. 

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.  

No strangers to smooth camera moves, Zhiyun’s new Smooth-Q3 3-axis gimbal provides impressive stabilization for a phone with a ton of features alongside it. Everything from a rotating light on top of the gimbal to smart follow features within the app make it easy to grab some great shots. And while it is a bit more expensive and larger than the 2-axis Smooth-XS we took a look at recently, the $89 Smooth-Q3 seems to be a worthy upgrade if you want to ditch the selfie stick for some better stabilization. Be sure to hit the video below to see all of the details. 

After being in the making for quite some time, Linedock is finally shipping. We first got a look at the new accessory at CES 2020, where I was impressed by the prototype they showed off. Now, a year and a half later, the USB-C dock arrives with plenty of notable features to match its unique design. Today, we’re taking a closer look to see how it all stacks up. Head below for a closer look and first impressions with the new Linedock for 16-inch MacBook Pro.

As we add more and more devices to our daily lives, charging areas can start to become a cluttered eyesore. RapidX, which is no stranger to charging accessories, has recently released its latest clutter-cutter — the MyCharging Station. With four USB ports, a 10W wireless charging pad, a holder for an Apple Watch, and two standard outlets, it’s a great way to clean up a popular charging spot in your home. Be sure to hit the video below to see all of the details.

Earlier this month the LEGO Group released its largest Marvel creation to date in the form of a new 3,700-piece Daily Bugle build fit for J. Jonah Jameson himself. With an impressive attention to detail, plenty of callbacks to the Spider-Man universe, and a staggering 25 minifigures, we’ve assembled the all-new build to see just how amazing the mainstay in NYC really is. Hit the jump to find out if the largest LEGO Marvel set yet is worth all the attention.

Mesh Wi-Fi systems are a great way to get seamless Wi-Fi throughout a large home. While they may sound difficult to understand and install, TP-Link makes it pretty easy with its Deco line of mesh systems. We took a look at the Amazon Choice for “Wif-Fi 6 mesh system,” the Deco X20 last year, and now have our hands on the $280 TP-Link Deco X68 — one of the latest systems. Rated at speeds up to 3600Mbps (though you’ll probably never see that) with enough range to cover a 5,500-sq.-ft. home, an easy-to-follow installation guide, and a robust app, it’s a great way to upgrade a home Wi-Fi system for better signal coverage. Be sure to hit the video below to check out all 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 Apple’s own MagSafe wallet being a bit of a sore subject among iPhone 12 owners, third-party brands have stepped up to deliver better value in the space for touting around cash and cards with your handset. One of the more premium options as of late comes from the folks over at Twelve South, which just recently unveiled its new Book Book Leather MagSafe Wallet case. Now we’re seeing if its higher-end $70 price tag is worth paying up for in our latest Tested with 9to5Toys review.

One of the biggest names in home security, Ring is out with its latest porch protector, the Video Doorbell Pro 2. With upgraded resolution and some new motion detection features, this camera is an upgrade over previous iterations but also packs a hefty price at $249.99. Be sure to hit the video below and check out all of the details. 

Lately, we’ve seen some great simple wired gaming headsets like the EPOS H3 and SteelSeries Arctis Prime, and now, we have a look at Turtle Beach’s latest — the Recon 500. At $80, how does this simple yet versatile headset perform? Be sure to hit 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.

Skullcandy made headlines earlier in the year by launching its latest pair of true wireless earbuds at an eye-catching $25 price tag. We were eager to get our hands on the new Skullcandy Dime to see just how they’d actually stack up, and after a week of use, we’re ready to drop some first impressions. So should you just save your money for a more expensive pair, or are these the best bang-for-your-buck earbuds on the market? That’s what our latest Tested with 9to5Toys review aims to answer.

SteelSeries’ latest lineup is aimed directly at competitive players with a simple design. The SteelSeries Prime line includes a new wired Arctis headset that borrows tech from the well-known Arctis Pro along with three brand-new mice for various budgets and needs. We got to go hands-on with the Arctis Prime headset as well as the Prime, Prime+, and Prime Wireless mice to see how they perform. Be sure to hit the video below to check out all of the details. 

Last month, Amazon first gave us a first look at its refreshed Fire HD 10 and other new tablets. With sleeker designs, improved performance, and new multitasking features, the latest releases are now shipping as of today, and we’re taking a hands-on look to see if the upgrades this time actually deliver. Head below for all of the details on if the new Fire HD 10 can live up to its promise of being a productivity powerhouse or if it’ll stay relegated to a content consumption machine. 

Furthering their offerings for the keyboard enthusiast, Razer’s latest keyboard, the Blackwidow V3 Mini, might be my favorite from the triple-headed snake so far. After switching to the Drop ALT last year, I’ve been in love with 65% layout keyboards and Razer’s new board packs this slim yet functional layout and adds their Hyperspeed wireless for even more convenience. Be sure to hit the video below to see all of the details. 

Growing their product offerings for mobile creators, Sennheiser is out with a new lineup including the XS Lav Mobile and 400 MKE compact shotgun microphone. Great for VOs and capturing on-camera audio, there are some nice options that go up against some stiff competition from the likes of Rode. Be sure to hit the video below to see and hear all the details, and how they stack up against some industry norms from Rode. 

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.

Having launched earlier in the year, the new 1MORE ComfoBuds Pro arrived to offer a low-cost competitor to AirPods Pro. It’s a line we’ve heard many times before, and a claim that’s very seldom met. So in order to try and deliver, active noise cancellation arrives alongside 28-hour battery and an under-$100 price tag. But is that enough to take on the gold standard in the true wireless headphones space? That’s what our latest Tested with 9to5Toys review aims to answer.

Roccat is aiming high with its latest gaming mice, the Kone Pro and Kone Pro Air. Both mice feature optical switches, a comfortable shell, and weigh in at just 66g for the wired and 75g for the wireless version. Be sure to hit the video below and check out all of the details. 

The LEGO Group kicked off this year with the launch of hundreds of new creations, but one in particular caught the eye of builders both new and old, the Bonsai Tree. Since its launch, the popular build has been almost impossible to find in stock. But now that the dust is starting to settle, it’s finally starting to be readily available. So nearly six months later, we’re taking a hands-on look at the creation to see if it’s actually as much of a must-have as all the commotion would have you believe. Head below for all of the details on the LEGO Bonsai Tree.

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.

Since the launch of MagSafe last fall, accessory makers have been jumping in on the magnetic wireless charging action to pair Apple’s first-party charger with various docks, stands, and mounts. We’ve previously taken a look at some more affordable models, but we’re turning our attention today to the opposite end of the spectrum. Nomad’s new MagSafe Mount arrives with a premium stainless steel build that stands out from just about every other option on the market. But is it worth pre-ordering at such a steep price tag? That’s what our latest Tested with 9to5Toys review aims to answer.

Today, Corsair is out with the latest version of the popular Virtuoso line-up. Taking a lot of the favorite features from previous forms like the 50mm drivers for clear gaming audio and one of the best mics in a wireless headset, the Corsair Virtuoso RGB Wireless XT adds Bluetooth and Dolby Atmos to the spec sheet. With a huge range of connectivity, the XT is set to be the wireless headset to rule them all but that does come at a price. Be sure to hit the video below and see all the details on the $270 Corsair Virtuoso RGB Wireless XT.

We’ve seen a lot of lightweight ambidextrous mice lately, both in the wired and wireless variant. But, for those who want a little more functionality out of their mouse with a durable design and some bright RGB, then the new Rival 5 from SteelSeries might tick all the boxes. With nine buttons, a seemingly durable ergonomic build, and weighing 85g, the SteelSeries Rival 5 comes in at a reasonable $60. Be sure to hit the video below to see all of the details. 

Expanding on their lineup of portable and durable thin and light laptops, the Lenovo ThinkPad X1 Nano hits a new low by coming in at just under two pounds. With an 11th Gen Intel processor, huge battery life, and a bright, sharp screen, it’s an easy-to-use portable option for on-the-go professionals. Be sure to hit the video below to check out all the details.

Today we take a closer look at the Ukutune UKD90 Solid Flamed Koa Wood Ukulele — the brand’s high-end natural wood tenor model. Last time around, we went hands-on with the far more affordable UKA1 model, but today we’re stepping it up a notch with solid Koa wood construction, a walnut fingerboard, and classic detailing. This one looks great in pictures, easily standing next to the big-name brands, but let’s dive in to see how it sounds and actually feels in your hands. 

The SSL UF8 DAW control surface is completely overkill for what I do, but following our announcement coverage, they asked if we wanted to take a hands-on look at it and I couldn’t resist. Thankfully, some features do work within Premiere Pro, which is where I edit most of my audio. To take full advantage of the incredible depth of control that the SSL UF8 offers, though, you will need a compatible DAW, or digital audio workstation like Logic, Pro Tools, or Ableton. If you’re interested in learning more about the incredible UF8 and want to see some of my audio workflows within Premiere, be sure to hit the video below. 

It’s May the 4th, and while LEGO’s Star Wars Day promotion rages on, we’re turning our attention to one of the latest creations from a galaxy far, far away. Debuting as the newest set inspired by Empire Strikes Back, the new Imperial Probe Droid stacks up to over 680 pieces while assembling the latest buildable character from the Star Wars universe. But does this kit stack up to a model that’s worth putting on display? Head below for all of the details on the LEGO Imperial Probe Droid.

The new Twelve South MagSafe charging stand launched earlier this week with a minimalistic, clean look and a design that leaves your iPhone 12 floating in midair. We have been fans of the brand for a quite a while now, but with Apple reintroducing MagSafe tech this generation, it’s time to give Twelve South’s first crack at the technology a run for its money. Head below for our hands-on Twelve South Forté review. 

Expanding on their lineup of lifestyle offerings, the new Razer Anzu is an interesting combination of technology. On the one hand, eye care is becoming more important with how much time is spent looking at a screen and the blue light blocking lenses help to protect our eyes, but Razer has also packed swappable sunglasses lenses, Bluetooth connectivity, and speakers into the arms of these $200 glasses, much like the Bose Frames that we took a look at earlier. Be sure to hit the video below to check out all of the details. 

With May the 4th quickly approaching, Anker is getting into the Star Wars spirit a tad early with the announcement today of its latest projector. Bringing the most beloved droid in the galaxy to its popular Nebula projector lineup, its upcoming R2-D2 Capsule II enters with a unique design on top of a notable list of features that let you take movie night just about anywhere. Today, we’re taking a hands-on look at the new release, so be sure to head below for all of the details and a closer look at this unique Star Wars collectible.

As the world of gaming keyboards expands with smaller, enthusiast-oriented offerings like 60% layout boards, there are still affordable full-size, full-featured options from all of your favorite brands. One of the latest from Corsair is the K55 RGB Pro XT. With macro keys that can integrate seamlessly into Elgato Stream Deck, media controls, and per-key RGB, it is packed with features for the $70 price point. Be sure to hit the video below to see all 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.

Amongst all of the iPhone 12’s new features, MagSafe has easily emerged as one of the most defining characteristics of this generation of Apple’s handset. While there are plenty of alternatives to the official MagSafe charging cable, more affordable stands aren’t quite as prevalent yet. So today, we’re taking a look at two different models from ESR’s HaloLock series, which bring magnetic wireless charging to your desk or car’s dashboard. Our latest Tested with 9to5Toys explores just how good these budget-friendly ESR MagSafe Charging Stands can be.