06 Jul
Blog

HP 930 Creator Wireless Mouse Review: Made for Creators

HP 930 Creator Wireless Mouse

HP 930 Creator Wireless Mouse

RRP $ 90.00

"The HP 930 Creator Wireless Mouse is a highly customizable mouse with no serious drawbacks."

advantages

  • Ergonomic design

  • Seven customizable buttons

  • Long battery life

  • Fast charge capability

disadvantage

  • Right-handed only

  • A bit expensive

HP has redoubled its recent efforts to woo creative customers with a full line of laptops like the Envy 14 and Envy 15 aimed directly at creative professionals. But HP hasn't stopped with laptops. It's also available with the HP 930 Creator Wireless Mouse, a device designed to work more efficiently in applications like Adobe Photoshop and Premiere Pro.

In addition to the HP Envy x360 15, another laptop for developers, I received a 930 Creator Wireless Mouse as a test device. I put the $ 90 wireless mouse through its paces – does it offer something to measure up to the best mice?

design

Top view of the HP 930 Creator Wireless Mouse.Mark Coppock / Digital Trends

The wireless 930 Creator mouse is made of two-tone silver-gray plastic and feels robust enough. It's light and easy to move around without feeling cheap, and the lower part that flares to the left has a slightly grippy coating that helps keep control over quick mouse movements. Aside from the color scheme, HP's mouse is similar to Logitech's MX Master 3, its main competitor.

Like the MX Master 3, the 930 Creator Wireless Mouse has a dual-function scroll wheel with a button that changes from ratchet to free-scrolling mode. The HP version is just as slick when allowed to flow freely, but chunkier in ratchet mode. The scroll wheel can be pressed and pushed to the left and right for additional functions.

There are four buttons along the left side to the top of the flare. The device closest to the user switches between two Bluetooth devices, while the other three can be programmed to perform many functions (more on that later).

This is actually an unfortunate arrangement as it is far too easy to press the bluetooth switch instead of the first programmable button to disconnect the active device. I've been using the mouse for a few weeks now and still occasionally hit the wrong button. HP would have been smarter to put the button on the bottom of the mouse.

Open view of the HP 930 Creator Wireless Mouse.Mark Coppock / Digital Trends

The 930 Creator Mouse comes with a proprietary dongle that plugs into a slot on the bottom. It's accessed via a magnetic cover that opens easily once you've read the attached diagram which tells you to press the bottom to pry the cover open. In combination with the two Bluetooth connections, you can use the dongle to establish a connection to a total of three devices.

As with the MX Master 3, you can connect to several devices at the same time via Bluetooth and the dongle and move the cursor and files between the devices. That's a nice feature if you're using multiple computers at the same time, and the feature works between Windows 10 and Mac OS.

ergonomics

Side view of the HP Creator Wireless Mouse.Mark Coppock / Digital Trends

Thanks to its shapely contours and the rounded design, the 930 Creator Wireless Mouse is a comfortable device – if you are right-handed. It's pretty much useless for left-handed people, which is unfortunate. The same applies, of course, to the Logitech MX Master 3 and many similar mice.

For those who can use it, however, and if your hand isn't too big, the mouse can be found comfortably in the palm of your hand and your thumb to rest easily on the flare. Moving the mouse is a simple process that does not cause significant fatigue even after hours of use.

The buttons are in the right places so they're easy to reach but not too easy to accidentally press (except for the bluetooth switch, as mentioned above). The left and right buttons have a nice click and are not too loud.

All in all, the 930 Creator Wireless Mouse passes the ergonomic mouse test quite well. It's a mouse designed for long creative sessions, and you won't find it getting in your way.

performance

The 930 Creator wireless mouse has a sensor resolution of 800 to 3,000 dots per inch (dpi), among some competitive mice that can achieve a resolution of up to 10,000 dpi. The MX Master 3, for example, has a resolution of 4,000 dpi, more than the HP, but not enough that the typical user would notice. The HP Accessory Center app can be installed from the Microsoft Store to set the resolution.

The HP Accessory Center app sets the mouse resolution.Mark Coppock / Digital Trends

As mentioned earlier, the scroll wheel works remarkably fast in smooth scrolling mode. If you're fidgety, it might move too fast, but you can use it to navigate long web pages and documents with ease. When it comes to cursor control, the 930 Creator Wireless Mouse is a confident performer that offers precise control thanks to a combination of just enough weight and ergonomic design.

HP promises up to 12 weeks of battery life on a single charge. I've been using it for a couple of weeks so far and I'm still sitting on around 70% battery life. So I'm well on my way to getting closer to HP's estimate. HP also states that a one-minute charge provides 30 minutes of battery life, ideal for times when you need to get something done and the battery is dead.

Programmability

All seven buttons of the 930 Creator Wireless Mouse – the pressed scroll wheel, the left and right action of the scroll wheel, the right button and the three programmable buttons – can be assigned functions within several applications. The buttons are programmed using the HP Accessory Center app.

The HP Accessory Center app is used to program the buttons on the 930 series Creator Wireless Mouse.

As in the example above, the app can recognize multiple applications and automatically assign certain functions to each key. Or the functions can be set manually. It's an easy-to-use app that makes customizing the mouse for supported applications a breeze.

Our opinion

The HP 930 Creator Wireless Mouse is a great addition to the programmable mouse category. It's well built, sits comfortably in the hand (if you're right-handed), and offers easy-to-use and very flexible programmability. Buying this mouse with an HP laptop makes perfect sense and is a one-stop shop for support.

However, there are other good mice out there too, so do some shopping. Chances are you have the 930 Creator Wireless Mouse on your shortlist.

Are there alternatives?

The most direct competitor is the Logitech MX Master 3, which costs $ 10 more than HP's mouse. The Logitech also supports multiple applications with custom buttons, but not as many as the 930 Creator Wireless Mouse.

The Razer Pro Click is another alternative to the 930 Creator Wireless Mouse and costs $ 10 more. You'll find that the Razer has longer battery life, an equally ergonomic design, a 16,000 dpi sensor, support for up to four devices, eight programmable buttons, and longer battery life. It's a formidable competitor.

How long it will take?

The 930 Creator Wireless Mouse is well built and should be used for years. The one year warranty is an industry standard.

Should you buy it?

Yes. It lies comfortably in the hand and can be adapted to your workflow.

Editor's recommendations



05 Jul
Blog

Lockly Duo Smart Lock Review: Steep Price for Convenience

Lockly Duo Smart Lock

Duo ™ Smart Lock

RRP $ 450.00

"The Lockly Duo replaces both your door lock and your deadbolt, but the price is just too high."

advantages

  • Replaces both locks on your door

  • Open and lock both locks with one handle

  • Precise fingerprint sensor

  • Random number pad for security

disadvantage

  • Some design problems

  • App is just ok

One of the biggest problems I've encountered with smart home door locks is that they tend to replace the deadbolt or latch. The Lockly Duo replaces both. I have mixed feelings about this lock setup, but I think those mixed feelings come from dealing with the unknown rather than from Lockly's mistakes. I know that it was nice that both locks were intelligent and accessible by fingerprint, key or code for a change.

Lockly behaves in an unusual way. Both the door lock and the deadbolt are controlled by a single door handle. A push-down unlocks both locks, a pull-up locks both locks. It definitely takes getting used to, and despite its strangeness, I like this mechanism. It's just easier to have a single handle that releases both locks, even if it's unusual.

Installation and setup

Setting up the lock required a bit of work and some complex mechanisms. The lock is designed to cover a latch and door handle that are either 4 "or 5½" apart. My door is 5 ½ inches so it worked. Or at least if my latch handle had been drilled to the right size. To attach the cover plate to my door, I had to sand about a quarter of the door. It's not Lockly's fault. The cover plate itself is also significantly larger than the door lock on the outside, so it doesn't look that great.

With the Lockly Duo, there is a clear gap between the locking mechanism and the door handle.

On the inside there is an additional mechanism that mounts between the door lock and the door called the connecting plate. This plate connects the bolt and the door lock with the single handle. It's not a bad device, but it does add a complexity to the lock that I wasn't expecting. In addition, the connecting plate is not flush with the door handle. It's not particularly noticeable, but if I hold a flashlight to the end of the lock, I can see the light on the other side.

There is no shortage of smart locks on the market, but none of them control both the trap and the bolt.

The Lockly Duo also has an integrated wired door sensor for the Lockly security system. I didn't install this as I already have a Vivint security system installed. But the fact that it's wired to the door handle and I couldn't remove it was a bit annoying.

properties

Once installed, use the Lockly app to set up PINs and fingerprints for users. The fingerprint sensor is located on the side of the door lock and a screen above the door lock shows the buttons for the codes. Most of the time the screen is turned off. A single tap usually turns it on, although occasionally I had to tap it a second time to wake it up. The numbers displayed are randomized into four buttons with three digits per button. This ensures that repeated tapping of the same point for the same codes does not develop a wear pattern. After entering your code, you can press some sort of "Enter" key below the keys, but there is no indication that the key is an Enter key. At first glance it looks like a fingerprint, so I initially confused it with the statement: "Sure, you can enter a code, but don't forget the fingerprint sensor." The button needs a better design, or it just has to "Enter" say.

The Lockly Duo uses a fingerprint sensor or a code to allow access.

The fingerprint sensor works very well, although I'm not convinced the placement is the best. When you have a door handle on the left side of the door, your natural instinct is to reach for the door with your left hand. But when you do, your fingers are pointing away from the sensor. The fingerprint sensor is a bit too cumbersome to use a thumbprint, so you end up reaching across your body to scan a finger on your right hand and then actually using your left hand to open the door.

software

The app also lets you lock and unlock the door, and is supposed to be able to pair it with the Google Assistant, but I couldn't get this to work. The app itself is pretty simple and easy to understand. You use it to set fingerprints and PIN codes. Setting up fingerprints works similarly to setting up a fingerprint on your phone. You press your finger on the sensor several times until the app tells you that you're done.

The app also allows you to activate "Welcome Mode" and this is one of my other main problems with the lock. Welcome mode means your door will stay unlocked on a schedule. That's nice, but in the summer when people come in and out all day it would be nice if there was a button or button that you can use to unlock the door. The only way to toggle the welcome mode on or off is currently through the app. That is not optimal.

Our opinion

Overall, this is a decent device with some oddities (and a price tag) to get used to. It's a great concept to be sure of. Using one door handle is much easier than locking and unlocking two locks individually. You still get the security of a dead bolt along with the convenience of a single door handle. There are some quirks here, like the inability to leave the door unlocked without using your phone and the oversized mounting plates for the lock. The handle also sticks out quite a bit which actually bothered my screen door. Many of these are minor issues that can certainly be fixed in a 2.0 product.

But at $ 450, you really don't want any compromises from a door lock. That's way more than double the average smart door lock on the market. That's a high price to pay for a little comfort. I usually leave my door lock unlocked because only my bolt was smart up to the Lockly. Having a door lock that works for both the deadbolt and the deadbolt is great, but I'm not convinced that $ 450 is great.

Is there a better alternative?

The Lockly's fingerprint reader and code field both work great. There's no shortage of smart locks on the market – check out our list of the most popular smart locks – but none of them control both the trap and the bolt. Is that the best in the world? It is certainly convenient. There were times when I would lock myself out of the house when I forgot to unlock the doorknob. With this lock, that's never a problem.

For roughly the same price, the ultimate Smart Lock is available in the Lockly Vision. It is the Swiss Army Knife among intelligent locks because it offers all modern conveniences, but also serves as a video doorbell. If you prefer something a little more discreet, the Level Touch looks like an ordinary deadbolt lock on any door and doesn't have the distracting keypads and bulky bolts normally associated with smart locks. And finally there is the August Wi-Fi Smart Lock, which is characterized by its moderate price, easy installation and incredible security features.

How long it will take?

I have no reason to believe this door lock won't hold. It is built from durable materials. The locks are backed by a five-year guarantee on mechanics and workmanship and a two-year electrical guarantee. The gap between the lock plate and the door handle makes me pause, but it's inside so it should be affected by rain. In general, I have no complaints about the durability.

Should you buy it?

No. There are certain reasons why you wouldn't want this lock from a functional standpoint. If your door has no awning or other weather protection, you will find that the fingerprint sensor and the code board are very sensitive to rain and practically no longer work. If you don't like the aesthetics of the door handles and prefer doorknobs, you should insist.

But the main concern I have is the pricing which is very high. Put simply, you can buy a smart door lock and bolt and still have money for a few battery packs before you hit that price threshold. Lockly needs to bring the price down before it is considered a solid buy.

Editor's recommendations



05 Jul
Blog

LG Gram 17 (2021) Review: Large and Light On Its Feet

LG Gram 17 2021 laptop

"The LG Gram 17 is one of the best 17-inch laptops you can buy."

  • Exceptionally light

  • Fast in performance mode

  • Excellent advertisement

  • Very good keyboard and touchpad

  • Excellent battery life

  • Feels a little thin

  • Too expensive

Sometimes you want a larger display than a typical 15.6-inch (or 16-inch) laptop. Perhaps you are a strong multitasker and want to put more windows on your display without feeling cramped. This is where 17-inch laptops come in, and while there aren't that many to choose from outside of gaming laptops, there are a few good options to consider.

One such option was LG's Gram 17, which, like all Gram laptops, aims to pack as much of the machine as possible into the lightest possible case. The 2021 version increases the display usage with an aspect ratio of 16:10, which offers even more vertical space for your work.

I looked at the LG Gram 17, which comes with a Core i71165G7, 16 GB of RAM, a 1 TB PCIe solid-state drive (SSD) and a 17-inch 16:10 display with a WQXGA resolution (2.560 x 1,600) is configured. This configuration costs $ 1,800, which means it is solidly in premium territory and can rival a potent competitor, the excellent Dell XPS 17.

design

Mark Coppock / Digital Trends

The LG Gram 17 does what it promises to pack a large display in a lightweight housing. It weighs just 2.98 pounds, which is remarkably light for such a large laptop. In comparison, the Dell XPS 17 with Touch and its 97 watt hour battery option weighs 5.53 pounds (the Gram 17 has an 80 watt hour battery). Even the non-contact XPS 17 with the 56 watt hour battery weighs 4.65 pounds.

In overall dimensions, the Gram 17 is 14.97 inches wide, 10.24 inches deep and 0.70 inches thick, compared to the XPS 17 at 14.74 inches x 9.76 inches x 0.77 inches. As another comparison, the HP Envy 17 is 15.71 x 10.2 x 0.76 inches and weighs 6.02 pounds (note that the Envy 17 has a 17.3 inch display). LG has clearly achieved something special here.

The LG Gram 17 doesn't have the solidity feel that other laptops enjoy.

How did you manage to make the LG Gram 17 so light? The key is the magnesium alloy used in the case of the laptop. It's a light metal to start with and LG doesn't use much of it. This affects the perceived build quality, with an extremely pliable lid and keyboard deck and case base that are fairly pliable. Magnesium is a strong metal, and so it's not that the LG Gram 17 isn't rugged, but it doesn't have the same solidity that you get from the XPS 17 or even the mid-range Envy 17.

The aluminum used in the other laptops weighs more and feels more robust. LG put the Gram 17 through military-grade MIL-STD-810G testing, so there is some objective data it can take. I also have to note that while the bottom is exceptionally light, the lid opens with one hand and only wobbles a tiny bit when in use.

LG Gram 17 closed in 2021, sitting on a brick sidewalk. Mark Coppock / Digital Trends

Aesthetically, the Gram 17 is designed as conservatively as it gets. It's all black with just a simple chrome “gram” logo on the lid. Otherwise there are no embellishments and the lines of the laptop are simple. It's by no means a bad looking laptop, but it also lacks character. The Dell XPS 17 and HP Envy 17 are more eye-catching and, I think, a lot more attractive. The Gram 17 enjoys small bezels, so it looks modern in that regard – and these small bezels naturally help keep the case size manageable.

Despite its thin frame, the Gram 17 offers a nice mix of connections. On the left is a full-size HDMI port and two USB-C ports with Thunderbolt 4 support (one of which is needed to power the laptop), as well as a 3.5mm audio jack. On the right side there is a Kensington lock connector, two USB-A 3.1 Gen 2 ports and a microSD card reader. Wi-Fi 6 and Bluetooth 5.1 offer wireless connectivity.

performance

A close-up of the keyboard and the logo of the LG Gram 17 in the middle under the display. Mark Coppock / Digital Trends

My test unit was equipped with an 11th generation Intel Core i7-1165G7, which is common on premium laptops and tends to offer solid productivity performance. I've noticed that laptops with the same chip can vary in performance, so I was curious to see how the LG Gram 17 would fare in a larger case that should have plenty of room for cooling. LG offers a utility to adjust the performance for heat and fan noise, and it has a noticeable effect. Most manufacturers offer such a utility today, and not all of them have a significant impact on performance – I only mention them when they affect our benchmark results. HP is another vendor whose "Performance" mode makes a significant difference in some (but not all) of its Envy and Specter laptops.

In its "optimal" mode, the Gram 17 corresponds to a large part of its Tiger Lake competition. In Geekbench 5, it did well in the single-core test and fell behind some competitors, such as the Samsung Galaxy Pro 360, in the multi-core test. However, switch to Performance mode, and the Gram 17's score jumped to 1563 and 5,473. In our Handbrake test, which encodes a 420 MB video as H.265, it was behind the pack, but again did a little better in performance mode with 197 seconds. When switching to Cinebench R23, the Gram 17 was again at the lower end in optimal mode, but was the fastest Tiger Lake laptop in our comparison group in performance mode (.375 in single-core and 4604 in multi-core).

The LG Gram 17 was a competent performer.

After all, it wasn't a leader in PCMark 10 in optimal mode and its performance mode made no difference in score – something I've seen with other vendors' performance optimization utilities. One example is the HP Specter x360 14, which also showed no improvement in PCMark 10 performance mode, although it was significantly faster in all other benchmarks in this mode. The Gram 17 did well on the Essentials parts (web browsing, video conferencing, etc) but fell behind in the areas of productivity and content creation.

Overall, the Gram 17 was a competent performer that handled all of your productivity tasks with ease. Switch to Performance mode and you will hear the fans spinning more often (they are not particularly loud), but you will get a noticeable increase in performance. However, I do find that you get much better performance with the Dell XPS 17, on par with its larger display with a much more powerful CPU and GPU combo. The Gram 17 is best suited for productivity users who want a bigger display, as opposed to the XPS 17, which is designed to give creative professionals a bigger canvas.

Geekbench (single / multiple) Handbrake (seconds) Cinbench R23 (single / multiple) PCMark 10 3DMark time spy
LG Gram 17 2021
(Core i7-1165G7)		 1503/4606 222 1323/3912 4880 1480
Dell XPS 17 (Core i7-10875H) 1315/7959 109 N / A N / A 5801
LG gram 16 (Core i7-1165G7) 1394/4137 213 1394/4137 4827 1390
Samsung Galaxy Pro 360
(Core i7-1165G7)		 1554/5603 N / A 1308/4062 5159 1800
HP Envy x360 15
(Ryzen7 5700U)		 1198/6790 116 1258/8131 5419 1471
HP Envy 15 (Core i7-10750H) 1274/5542 139 N / A N / A 5123

The Gram 17 isn't a gaming laptop given its built-in Intel Iris Xe graphics. In the 3DMark Time Spy test, it achieved an average score in optimal mode and a significantly higher score of 1802 in performance mode. In Fortnite, the influence of the utility was even more pronounced. It managed a meager 12 frames per second (fps) in 1080p and high graphics and 13 fps in epic graphics in optimal mode. That is way behind the rest of the Tiger Lake competition.

However, switch to performance mode and it jumped to 29 fps and 19 fps, which is much more competitive. Of course, these aren't impressive results either, and so you'll be limited to older titles or run newer titles with low resolutions and graphical detail.

Display and audio

A close-up of the open plan LG Gram 17 2021 laptop placed on a brick walkway. Mark Coppock / Digital Trends

A large, expansive display is of little use if it suffers from poor quality. Fortunately, LG chose a high-quality panel for the Gram 17, starting with its 16:10 aspect ratio that offers plenty of space in a 17-inch display.

According to my colorimeter, the display exceeds our 300 nit limit at 343 nits, making it bright enough for most indoor lighting conditions. The contrast of 930: 1 was close to our preferred 1000: 1 ratio. The 4K display of the Dell XPS 17 is superior with 491 nits and 1,530: 1, while the Gram 17's smaller brother, the Gram 16, was just below it with 313 nits and 830: 1. The results from the Gram 17 are in line with what is expected from a premium laptop today.

In terms of colors, the display on the Gram 17 scored 88% AdobeRGB and 100% sRGB, which is better than the 75% and 95% average of the premium laptop and close to what creatives go for photo and video Want video editing. The XPS 17 does significantly better with 98% and 100%, respectively, while the Gram 16 is on par with the 17-inch model. The color accuracy of the Gram 17 was good with a Delta E of 1.3 (less than 1.0 is considered excellent), while the XPS 17 was inferior with 0.37 and the Gram 16 with 2.67.

Overall, this was a delightful display for whatever most users throw at it. Productivity was increased by the aspect ratio, good contrast and above-average brightness, while viewing photos and videos became a pleasant experience thanks to the wide and accurate colors. If you want to do photo and video editing occasionally – consider the performance deficit compared to a laptop like the XPS 17 – this display will be fine with this display if necessary.

The sound is nice and clear, with pleasant highs and mids and just a hint of bass. At the same time, the two downward facing speakers don't get very loud, and there is only a hint of distortion at maximum volume. You'll be content with the occasional YouTube video, but you will likely need a pair of headphones or bluetooth speakers for Netflix binging and music.

Keyboard and touchpad

A LG Gram 17 2021 keyboard.Mark Coppock / Digital Trends

The keyboard is comfortably spaced with large keycaps and has a number pad with a light touch and sufficient travel. The typing experience is only tarnished by a slightly abrupt floor movement – I usually appreciate a certain bounce at the end of a keystroke, but it's just a little too much here. I was able to type on the keyboard at full speed, but I felt that I might get tired after long typing sessions. The keyboard on the Dell XPS 17 has a more comfortable action, as does HP's keyboard on its Specter and newer Envy laptops.

The touchpad is large, but could be bigger given the many palm rests available. It's a Microsoft Precision model that is universal at this point and makes Windows 10's multi-touch gestures accurate and precise. The keyboard layout, especially the integrated number pad, pushes the touchpad out of the middle, which takes some getting used to. If you're using the touchpad as a guide to finding the starting line on the keyboard, you'll need to adjust your exercise or type the wrong letters. The display doesn't support touch, which I always miss on a laptop.

Windows 10 Hello support is provided by a fingerprint reader built into the power button which is the best place. You can turn on the Gram 17 and sign in with a touch, and that's so much more convenient than looking for a fingerprint reader that sits somewhere on the keyboard deck or, worse, embedded in the touchpad. The reader was quick and accurate during my tests.

Battery life

A LG Gram 17 2021 open, placed on a brick walkway. Mark Coppock / Digital Trends

Somehow, LG managed to pack 80 watt hours of battery capacity while still maintaining the low weight of the Gram 17. That's a decent amount of power, so I was hoping LG's usual excellent battery life would hold up.

And that's exactly what I found. Starting with our web browser test that ran through a number of popular websites, the Gram 17 lasted for 13.25 hours, which is a very strong result. The Dell XPS 17 managed less than half as long with almost 6.5 hours, while the Gram 16 was a bit stronger with 13.8 hours. In our video test, which plays a Full HD Avengers trailer until the battery is empty, the Gram 17 managed a spectacular 21 hours, compared with the XPS 17 only 9.3 hours and the Gram 16 with an even better 24.4 hours .

With a single charge, the LG Gram 17 will get you through a whole working day and well into the evening.

I also ran the PCMark 10 gaming test, which put a strain on the CPU and GPU, and the Gram 17 made it to almost five hours. It's one of the longest results in our database and just seven seconds less than another top runner, the Gram 16. We didn't test the XPS 17 in PCMark 10. The result was probably a combination of the large battery capacity and the optimal setting that neither the CPU nor the GPU ran at full speed.

Finally, the Gram 17 achieved just under 14 hours in the PCMark 10 Applications test, which is the best indicator of the battery life in productivity. That's a strong score, in the top of the range of the laptops we tested, but not as strong as I expected. For example, the Gram 16 reached 17.8 hours.

Overall, the Gram 17 is a long-lasting laptop despite its large, high-resolution display. It will get you through a full day of work and well into the evening, and you will likely have a few hours left the next morning.

Our opinion

LG achieved its goal of creating a large screen laptop with good performance and great battery life that doesn't weigh a ton. You want to switch to performance mode for the highest speed and you will endure a little fan noise, but it's worth it. For the most part, this is a laptop that delivers on its promise and a lot more besides.

However, whether it is for you depends on whether you are okay with a metal case that shows some degree of flexibility. LG tested the Gram 17 for durability at a military level, and it survived, which means the laptop is likely very sturdy. Even so, you won't get that warm and fuzzy feeling of durability when handling the Gram 17.

Are there alternatives?

The Dell XPS 17 has the same 16:10 aspect ratio that is better quality, and you get a faster laptop with a more powerful GPU. It's also much heavier and doesn't even match the battery life of the Gram 17. To get the most out of the XPS 17's performance, you'll also be spending hundreds more.

Next, consider the slightly smaller LG Gram 16 if you don't need quite that much screen real estate. It also offers great battery life and suffers from the same flimsy feel, but it's another lightweight offering that offers plenty of performance and durability without the weight.

The XPS 15 and MacBook Pro 16 are also faster laptops with smaller displays and could be good options. If you don't need the largest display, these two machines should be on your list.

How long it will take?

The Gram 17 doesn't feel as rugged as the premium laptops it competes with, but if you trust the MIL-STD-810G rating, you can be comfortable with the longevity of the laptop. It is definitely equipped with the latest components. However, you will not like the one-year guarantee.

Should you buy it?

Yes. The LG Gram 17 puts a big and beautiful display in your hand without weighing you down, and you will love the spectacular battery life.

Editor's recommendations



05 Jul
Blog

Huawei Watch 3 Review: Strong Commitment is Needed

Huawei Watch 3 shows that

Huawei Watch 3 in the test: To achieve perfect harmony, you have to commit to it

"The Huawei Watch 3 is a beautifully designed, fast, and accurate health tracking smartwatch, but you have a seriously daunting setup experience to overcome."

  • Good looking and comfortable to wear

  • Accurate, detailed health tracking

  • Fast GPS connection

  • Fluid, fast software

  • Short battery life with all active functions

  • Limited eSIM support

  • Bad setup experience

The Huawei Watch 3 isn't just another smartwatch – it's one of Huawei's most important products in a while. The Watch 3 dispenses with the old software of the Watch GT2 for HarmonyOS, the operating system developed by Huawei itself, which we have heard a lot about, but have not yet had a chance to use.

The Huawei Watch 3 is the first device to officially launch with the software on board, and while it's quick and well-designed, it takes a lot of effort and dedication to get it working with your phone. Assuming you're willing to invest the time, is it worth it?

design

The Huawei Watch 3 is one of the best looking smartwatches you can buy. It is well thought out and very comfortable to wear, with a case made of 316L stainless steel and a ceramic case back with a high-quality, luxurious finish. Huawei has long proven that it knows what it's doing in both phones and wearables, and the Watch 3 continues that tradition. Its clear and restrained, yet exciting style is very watch-like and miles ahead of most Wear OS smartwatches.

Huawei Watch 3 on your wristAndy Boxall / Digital Trends

The 46mm case fits my 6.5 '' wrist and the 65g weight makes it portable all day, although I found it too big to wear overnight. Using ceramic is important because it feels so good against your skin. The reflective nature looks classy and doesn't sweat or itch like plastic. On the side is an offset, neatly textured crown over a single button at the four o'clock position. Don't dig into your wrist either, but I found the button to be a little too low on the case, making it a bit awkward to locate and press.

You control the Watch 3 via the touchscreen and the crown. The 1.43-inch AMOLED screen, with its 466 x 466 pixel resolution, is beautiful and best shows off when it shows colorful watch faces. It might sound strange, but the tempered glass used over the screen has wonderful texture, and the 2.5D curve around the bezel makes the swipe pleasantly tactile, adding shape and visual interest to the front of the watch. The stylish texture of the crown is easy to grip and can therefore be easily turned with your finger.

Huawei Watch 3 button and crownAndy Boxall / Digital Trends

If I felt loveless, it would be easy to turn the positives about the Huawei Watch 3 into negatives as most of the aspects that make it a winner – stainless steel, ceramic, light weight, textured crown, a single button, domed bezel – are the same ones that make the Apple Watch a winner. If anything, the Huawei Watch 3 is a pretty accurate representation of what a round Apple Watch might look like, and the similarities to the Apple Watch don't end there either, but we'll get back to that.

The sum of the parts of the Huawei Watch 3 works so well that I won't go into it because the design reflects the very best smartwatch there is to buy, especially since there are so many disappointing smartwatches out there and a good model should be applauds.

software

HarmonyOS is Huawei's response to its inability to use Google services on its mobile products due to US government restrictions making it impossible for US companies to work with Huawei. It's a complete software ecosystem developed by Huawei that is designed to work seamlessly across everything from Internet of Things (IoT) hardware to smartphones.

The app grid menu on the Huawei Watch 3Andy Boxall / Digital Trends

The Huawei Watch 3 is the first device to use HarmonyOS 2, and you can forget about Wear OS or Huawei's own LiteOS that it used for its wearables in the past. It's a world of its own and much better than either. The speed, fluidity and smoothness are amazing. There are no pauses and no slowing down, just instant response, a nice "bounce" effect when swiping between screens and very fast scrolling. It's attractively designed with bright colors, large icons, clear text, and some pretty dials.

I quickly got into using HarmonyOS on the Watch 3 without getting used to it or learning new layouts or icon styles. While that's a good thing, aside from the fluidity, speed, and pretty design, there's a good reason too – HarmonyOS on the Watch 3 is a bit of a "biggest hit" in portable software.

Huawei Watch 3 shows that

Andy Boxall / Digital Trends

Huawei Watch 3 menu

Andy Boxall / Digital Trends

Notifications on the Huawei Watch 3

Andy Boxall / Digital Trends

Push the crown in to reveal the main menu, which is presented as a grid of circular icons and looks just like Apple's WatchOS. You can even rotate the crown to zoom in and out of the grid, complete with haptic feedback. This is the default setting, but can be changed to a standard list layout if necessary. Browse other menus, like the workout list, accessed from the bottom button on the case, and the options appear as a vertically scrolling list that fits the circular screen and reminds me of Tizen on the Galaxy Watch 3. Swipe left on the screen and you'll get information boards, just like Wear OS and Huawei's own LiteOS on the Watch GT2.

Granted, there are only limited design directions that can be followed with software on such a small screen that has to be operated with a finger, but the similarity to WatchOS does him no favors. I changed the launcher to show a list of icons and spent time picking the best watch faces just to give the Watch 3 its own identity that HarmonyOS 2.0 is currently lacking a little.

Huawei Health app

The Huawei Watch 3 earns quite a bit of benevolence for its attractiveness and fast software, and it needs every last bit of it because starting up and using the app can be very frustrating. This is where the novelty of HarmonyOS 2 shows, and we see the challenge facing Huawei if it wants to find widespread acceptance.

The Huawei Watch 3 deserves some goodwill thanks to its attractiveness and fast software.

To sync the Watch 3 with your Android phone, you need to download Huawei Health, but not Huawei Health from Google Play. This version is out of date and will not work with brand new Huawei devices. Instead, you need to download the Huawei App Gallery and download Huawei Health from there. This means downloading an APK file, accepting system permissions, signing in to Huawei to use the App Gallery, downloading another new file, accepting other new permissions, providing notifications and location access, and much more.

It doesn't stop there. In order for Huawei Health to work properly, you need to install another app called Huawei Core, although it doesn't really explain why. To keep Huawei Health up to date, you'll need to go to the App Gallery – an app that isn't very welcoming to the point where you're forced to look at an ad every time you open it Hold your phone. This is all very daunting and a massive barrier for anyone unfamiliar with sideloading apps and using alternative app stores.

Worst of all, if you miss a step or don't enable the correct permissions, the Watch 3 and Huawei Health app will not work properly – which is very easy because of the fragmented, multi-step setup process, difficult to figure out why. It's a little easier with an iPhone, as an up-to-date Huawei Health app is available directly from the App Store. Huawei claims that when connected to an iPhone, the battery life deteriorates and, like any other non-Apple Watch, it doesn't support all features, including Apple Messages.

HarmonyOS 2

HarmonyOS 2's fluid navigation makes navigating the software painless, and there are apps for all major functions including access to the compass, breathing exercises, the music app and, if you activate the eSIM, phone functions. If you want to use the eSIM and you are in the UK it will only work with the Vodafone network. Huawei does not sell the Watch 3 with already active connectivity. Remember that adding an eSIM will cost on top of your current monthly plan. Even without an eSIM, calls can be answered on the Watch 3 with loudspeaker and microphone, even if not particularly loud.

Huawei Watch 3 eyeletsAndy Boxall / Digital Trends

I've received notifications with average reliability, although none can be interacted with when viewed, but at least they're formatted correctly and can be expanded to show more detail. However, when notifications arrive on the watch, it doesn't preview immediately, which is frustrating. I've found that if you let it sit for a few seconds before you raise your wrist, the likelihood of previewing it is much greater. It's extremely annoying because if you raise your wrist too soon you will have wasted your chance of ever seeing it without waking up the screen and swiping up.

Huawei's virtual assistant Celia is available by long pressing the bottom button and works well for basic commands, including starting a workout. It lacks some apps and features, such as Huawei's own MeeTime video call service which doesn't work in the UK, there is also no contactless payment system and no boarding passes. Huawei has informed me that the Watch 3 will have its own petal maps service in the future.

Frustrations aside, HarmonyOS 2 works well on the Watch 3. It's an evolution of the already decent Watch GT2 software and a step beyond Wear OS, but still way behind the Apple Watch despite the visual similarities to WatchOS.

Activity tracking

Huawei packed the Watch 3 with sensors. On the back there is a heart rate sensor, a blood oxygen sensor (SPo2) and a skin temperature sensor. A skin temperature sensor that was recently seen on the Mobvoi TicWatch GTH isn't really great for monitoring core temperature, but it can be helpful in understanding overall health over time. However, it's as much of a niche as a SPo2 monitor. There are 100 different training modes, automatic fall detection and all-day activity recording.

Activity tracking screen on Huawei Watch 3Andy Boxall / Digital Trends

The exercise tracking screens on the Watch 3 are clear and very easy to read and filled with helpful information. I found that the Watch 3 received a GPS signal very quickly, much faster than the Fitbit Versa 3, and its overall accuracy in terms of step count, heart rate, and calories burned was on par with the Apple Watch SE. I also liked being asked to stop a workout if the Watch 3 noticed I stopped moving.

What I don't like is the incredibly irritating voice over that is added to exercise tracking by default. “WORKOUT STARTED!” The Watch 3 screams when you tap the start button, letting everyone around you know what you're doing. It also screams your heart rate, elapsed time, and other information at various intervals, all with the worst accent imaginable. I despise it to the core. There is a volume button on one of the menus that you can use to turn that hateful thing off.

That complaint aside, the data is quickly synced to Huawei Health, where a wealth of information is presented in a clear, easy-to-understand manner with plenty of depth for the serious sports addict. The main page shows important records that can be tapped for more details, while the watch shows you VO2Max data, training load, and recovery time recommendations. Overall, the Huawei Watch 3 is a very effective, accurate, and feature-rich health and fitness tracker. Except for this voice-over, which is one of the worst "features" I have ever come across.

Battery life

Huawei estimates a battery life of three days when connected to an Android phone or up to 14 days with a special battery mode. Hitting those estimates depends a lot on how you use the watch, and so far I haven't hit it either. For example, if you have heart rate, SPo2, and skin temperature monitoring active and track a single workout using GPS for an hour, the battery will last a day, and that's not good at all.

The heart rate sensor on the back of the Huawei Watch 3Andy Boxall / Digital Trends

With only active heart rate monitoring and a single workout recorded less than an hour in a day without GPS, the battery lasted around two and a half days. That's better, but not class leading. It is charged via a plastic base that is magnetically attached to the bottom of the case. It's pretty slow and takes over two hours to go from zero to 100%.

Price and availability

The Huawei Watch 3 costs £ 350, which is around $ 483, for either the Classic version pictured above or an all-black version with a rubber strap called Sport. It is sold through Huawei's own online shop or Amazon. It is not officially available in the US but could be purchased as an import.

Our opinion

With all its design, fine materials and hyper-fast software, the onboarding process of the Huawei Watch 3 is anything but ideal and a poor introduction to an otherwise very good smartwatch. Tech novices or anyone whose experience ends with connecting Bluetooth headphones to their phone will find the setup process full of complications and uncertainties using the App Gallery and Huawei Health. If it doesn't run correctly, the clock may not work as expected. It's absolutely not appropriate for a smartwatch that costs that much.

Anyone who has ever used alternative app stores or owns a current Google-free Huawei cell phone will find it far less stressful and get involved with the Watch 3 actually pays off. It's extremely comfortable, very well made, and packed full of accessible health and fitness features. However, as with using a Huawei smartphone today, you need to get used to doing things differently, using different apps, and being patient as HarmonyOS grows.

The introduction of the Huawei Watch 3 doesn't require the same level of dedication as using a Huawei smartphone without Google, but it still doesn't feel like a product that is totally mass-marketed. It's very close, however, and anyone who feels confident navigating the cumbersome set-up process and looking to a new app store in the future will be rewarded with an excellent smartwatch.

Is there a better alternative?

Yes. If you own an iPhone, the only smartwatch you should buy is the Apple Watch. If you're considering a smartwatch for around £ 350 (up to $ 480), it means the Apple Watch Series 6 is on budget. It's the best smartwatch you can buy and an excellent choice.

If you own an Android phone, the situation is a little different. The Samsung Galaxy Watch 3 and the Mobvoi TicWatch Pro 3 are our recommendations for their strong performance and good battery life, but unless you really need to have a smartwatch now, we should wait and see what happens with the next Galaxy Watch release that the will have new Google / Samsung Wear software on board. It is expected to arrive in the summer and promises a far better smartwatch experience than Wear OS.

How long it will take?

The stainless steel case, the ceramic base, the hardened glass and the water resistance of 5 ATM should make the Huawei Watch 3 very durable. The strap is fastened with quick release pins and measures 22 mm by default, making it easy to get a replacement. Huawei is committed to HarmonyOS, which means the software should be supported for a while, but since it's fairly new, some features you might expect may not yet be there, such as petal maps.

The option of an eSIM is also helpful for the future if you think such a function makes sense and if you are equipped with the right network. There's no reason the watch won't be fresh in design two years from now, and in theory the software and experience should only have improved during that time. If you're ready to get involved, there's plenty of life in the Huawei Watch 3.

Should you buy it?

No, life with an Apple Watch or a Wear OS Smartwatch will be easier for most people and will be more tailored to their smartphone. But if you are more adventurous and understand its drawbacks, the Huawei Watch 3 is a risk worth taking.

Editor's recommendations



04 Jul
Blog

Wyze Cordless Vacuum Review: Packs a Budget-Friendly Punch

Wyze cordless vacuum cleaner

"Wyze sets the standard for what we expect from a budget-friendly cordless vacuum cleaner for the home."

  • Incredibly low price

  • Double motors ensure powerful cleaning

  • Light weight makes it easy to use

  • Surprisingly good filter system

  • Many functions are missing

  • Shorter battery life

The market for cordless vacuum cleaners has exploded in the last year and is no longer dominated by rigidities like Dyson, Shark, Bissel, Samsung or LG. New models from these renowned brands can typically cost anywhere from $ 350 to $ 500 or more. However, there are companies like Roborock and Tineco who are launching new models to take a piece of the pie – with affordable prices in the foreground.

The Wyze Cordless Vacuum Cleaner is the latest in affordable cordless vacuum cleaner. It costs $ 150 but is currently available for pre-order for $ 119. There is a hard limit of 50,000 pre-order units, but at the time of writing, there are more than 29,000 available. While the Wyze Cordless Vacuum trades in more advanced features for a much lower price, it still scores admirably when compared to the competition and, as Wyze always has, fills a void in the budget market that makes it appealing to a wide range of users.

Design: light but powerful

The Wyze cordless vacuum cleaner weighs just 2.8 pounds and is light enough for almost anyone to pick up and use for long periods of time. Despite this low weight, it does not save on performance. A pair of motors delivers 150 air watts (AW) or 24,000 Pascal (Pa) suction power.

Wyze cordless vacuum cleanerWyze

The brushless motor design reaches 110,000 RPM and has less friction – resulting in longer battery life. An additional 9,500 rpm in the brush head provide additional cleaning power and have been specially developed to collect pet hair. As the owner of a cat who has lost so much hair that it should be bald, I have to agree. The cordless Wyze vacuum cleaner does a great job removing pet hair from the carpet and couch.

There are different performance modes, but the standard is Eco mode, which allows 50 minutes of cleaning time. If you buy a different battery, it can be swapped out in no time for longer cleaning sessions. Of course, the eco mode delivers less performance overall. Compared to other models, the run time is shorter, which can make it difficult to clean an entire house in one go. The eco mode offers the user a suction power of 7,000 Pa. Medium offers up to 15,000 Pa suction power and the turbo mode delivers the full, promised 24,000 Pa at the expense of battery life.

Accessories: a lot to do

A vacuum cleaner is only as good as its best accessories. After all, there is only so much you can do with a standard vacuum head. The good news is that the Wyze cordless vacuum cleaner comes with a variety of different accessories that you can use to clean almost anywhere in your home or vehicle.

The light illuminates dust and dirt on your floor to make sure you don't miss a point.

The grouting tool reaches corners and crevices, just like under the kitchen cupboards. The brush tool loosens dirt and dust and sucks it directly into the vacuum cleaner. I found it particularly useful for dusting as the bristles are soft enough to remove dust from around the TV without scratching the screen.

The really standout accessory, however, is the primary brush head. Although it offers a lot of additional cleaning power, it also stands out for another reason: Six forward-facing LEDs in the head. This extra light will illuminate dust and debris on your floor to make sure you don't miss a point.

Wyze

This is ideal for vacuuming under furniture. All dust bunnies that gather under the recliner and couch are easy to see with these lights. Of course, that's not always a good thing – you might be shocked by how dirty some parts of your home are.

Performance: Better air quality

Vacuuming may make your floors a little cleaner, but it's practically useless if it pollutes your air quality. While many high-end vacuums offer incredible filtration systems, this isn't something you would expect from a budget model. This is how the Wyze cordless vacuum cleaner surprises.

Wyze cordless vacuum cleaner in charging station.

It offers a three-stage filter system that starts with the vacuum cyclone. This cyclone separates dirt based on particle size. Then a large metal sieve separates the larger particles such as dust and hair.

The final stage of the filtration process is a HEPA filter that removes up to 99.99% of particles as small as 0.3 microns. This results in much cleaner air and helps reduce the amount of allergens that get kicked up when vacuuming. After you've finished vacuuming, you can empty the trash can with one finger by pulling the lever. You don't have to clean the vacuum cleaner every time, but you can increase the filter's longevity and effectiveness by cleaning it regularly.

Both the dust cup and the filter can be removed and cleaned. In fact, the entire Wyze cordless vacuum cleaner has a modular design that makes it easy to maintain. There's even a built-in filter brush that you can rotate to knock dust off the filter and into the bin.

Our opinion

The Wyze cordless vacuum cleaner is a solid purchase, especially at its discounted $ 119 price point. Even for the normal retail price of $ 150, it offers incredible value and performance. It might not have an app or a lot of extra features, but its powerful cleaning features and air filtration make it a worthwhile investment.

Are there any better alternatives?

From a budget point of view, nothing comes close to the Wyze cordless vacuum cleaner. It offers great performance at one of the lowest prices we've ever seen. If you are looking for an alternative, Shark Rocket cordless vacuum cleaner is a $ 200 option. If you're looking for a high-end option this is the Roborock H7 has a lot more features, longer cleaning time, and more accessories for $ 500.

How long it will take?

With its lower weight, the Wyze cordless vacuum cleaner feels more fragile than higher-priced models, but not cheap. As long as the vacuum cleaner is not stored in direct sunlight and is cleaned regularly, it should last for many years. At the very least, it comes with a one-year limited warranty that covers it for defects.

Should you buy it?

Yes. If you're looking for an affordable vacuum cleaner for small jobs around the house, it's hard to beat.

Editor's recommendations



04 Jul
Blog

HP Elite Dragonfly Max Review: A Video Dream Machine

HP Elite Dragonfly Max Test 12

"The HP Elite Dragonfly Max is a beautiful 2-in-1 device for the business traveler on the go."

  • Excellent workmanship

  • Thin and light

  • Excellent keyboard and touchpad

  • Effective privacy protection

  • A number of valuable business functions

  • Overwhelming CPU performance

  • Expensive

The HP Elite Dragonfly has never been your average business laptop. The name alone suggests that this is not a ThinkPad clone. A unique design made the original Elite Dragonfly a fantastic 2-in-1 device for business people who didn't want to sacrifice design for business functions.

HP updated the machine to G2 in 2020 and then to the latest 11th generation Intel Tiger Lake CPUs in 2021. But now we have a specialized version, the Elite Dragonfly Max, which shares the same basic design and functionality as the G2, but with improved video conferencing capabilities – notably an improved webcam and an additional, outward-facing microphone.

I have a test configuration of the Elite Dragonfly Max with an Intel Core i7-1185G7 with vPro, 16 GB RAM, a 512 GB PCIe solid-state drive (SSD), HP's Full HD (1,920 x 1,080) Sure View Reflect- Privacy protection and 5G WWAN support. The configuration costs $ 2,792, a very steep price tag that is – once again – aimed at a specific type of business user. Does the Max offer added value compared to the G2?

design

In test mode, the HP Elite Dragonfly folds up as a 2-in-1.Mark Coppock / Digital Trends

What stands out most about the design of the Elite Dragonfly Max is the attention to detail. HP has obviously put a lot of thought into making a laptop that not only meets the typical needs of business users, but also some things that many people may not have thought of. Consider the "cleanability" of the laptop. Not only can you clean and disinfect the laptop with regular household towels – up to 1,000 cycles – but HP has also developed a simple HP Easy Clean utility that turns off the touchscreen, keyboard and touchpad, so you can clean the device without pressing any keys and touched.

Then there are the "Context Aware" technologies from HP, of which there are two variants. The first, in-bag / out-of-bag detection, has been implemented on a few other HP laptops – the HP Specter x360 14, for example, and just like it sounds, it can detect when you put your laptop in a Put a bag or a backpack. When this condition is detected, the laptop will go to sleep to make sure it doesn't turn on. Then if you remove it and place it on a flat surface, the laptop will wake up and be up and running much faster.

The second contextual function is On Lap / On Table Detection, which can detect when you are using the laptop on a desktop machine temperature around 5 degrees Celsius.

The Elite Dragonfly Max is an incredibly well-designed laptop in the most important aspects.

But no fear. HP did not spend all of its resources on unusual features. The Elite Dragonfly Max is also an incredibly well-designed laptop in the most important aspects. It's made from a magnesium alloy, which gives it a solid construction that is compromised by just a tiny flex of the lid. The keyboard deck and underside of the case are strong and rigid, and the laptop has been tested to military specifications. If the Elite Dragonfly Max isn't in the same class as the Lenovo ThinkPad X1 Nano, the ThinkPad X13 Yoga 2-in-1, or the Dell XPS 13, then it's damn close. Hold it in your hand – and toggle it between the four modes of clamshell, tent, media, and tablet – and you get a real feeling of solid quality.

The Elite Dragonfly Max is also a thin and light laptop. It's 0.63 inches thick and 2.49 pounds, and ranges from the 0.67 inches and 1.99 pounds of the ThinkPad X1 Nano to the 0.58 inches and 2.8 pounds of the XPS 13. The ThinkPad X13 Yoga has it the same thickness but weighs a little more at 2.76 pounds. There aren't many 13-inch 2-in-1s in the business class, and so our direct comparison group is slim.

The Elite Dragonfly Max would benefit from smaller top and bottom bezels that would make for a smaller case and a more modern look. There is a reason for the thicker top bezel, however – HP needed space to fit into the higher resolution webcam. Speaking of looks, the Elite Dragonfly Max is designed conservatively, with clean lines and simple angles, but enough accents not to get boring. The hinges are the most elaborate design element; they do not protrude, but subtly enhance the overall look of the notebook. The Max version of the laptop is available in Brilliant Black instead of the blue of the G2 and looks good.

The ports of the HP Elite Dragonfly Max.Mark Coppock / Digital Trends

Connectivity is also a strength. On the left there is a USB-A-3.1 port, a nano lock slot and a nano SIM slot. On the right side you'll find a full-sized HDMI 2.0 port, a 3.5mm audio jack, and two USB-C ports with Thunderbolt 4 support (one of which is used for charging). Wireless connectivity includes Wi-Fi 6 and Bluetooth 5, and either LTE 4G or 5G wireless WAN (WWAN) support is optional.

Speaking of the latter, my test device was equipped with 5G and came with an AT&T SIM card. I tested 5G connectivity at my home, and while both the laptop and AT & T's coverage map indicated I was getting a 5G connection, my download speed was around 70 megabits per second (Mbps). When I tested the Lenovo Flex 5G with Verizon's Ultra-Wideband 5G (the HP is limited to Sub6 5G), I saw almost 500Mbps. I haven't had a chance to drive around town looking for a faster AT&T 5G connection, but I'm sure it's possible to see faster speeds than I've experienced.

Security and privacy

HP Elite Dragonfly Max touchpad, keyboard and fingerprint reader.Mark Coppock / Digital Trends

HP has carried over the various security and privacy features that we loved so much into the original Elite Dragonfly. It offers optional vPro support so that large companies can integrate the laptop into their management systems. It also features HP Sure Start, which features a security controller built right into the motherboard, providing an isolated and encrypted physical layer of protection for the BIOS and the boot process. As stated with the original model, the Elite Dragonfly Max outperforms most other business-class laptops in terms of the sheer number of business-oriented features, including Lenovo's ThinkPad range.

You can also find two ways to log in without a password – facial recognition via infrared cameras and a fingerprint reader on the top right of the palm rest. Both work quickly and reliably. There's a physical webcam cover for more privacy that displays an overlay to make it visible when it's activated, and a keyboard button turns the microphone off.

Finally, the Elite Dragonfly Max (and note that the G2 version has all of these features, too) has built-in tile support. The new models are different from the original, where the tile module was plugged into the same M.2 port as the WWAN, so it was either tile or always-on connectivity and not both. Tile is now built into the motherboard so you can now use the Tile system to locate your laptop if you leave it behind or if it is stolen and still enjoy 4G LTE or 5G support.

performance

The HP Elite Dragonfly is folded on its back.

The Elite Dragonfly Max I tested is equipped with an 11th generation Intel Core i7-1185G7 CPU with vPro support. This makes it an excellent choice for large organizations that use vPro for remote management and support. Although the laptop was equipped with a slightly faster version of the Tiger Lake Core i7, I suspected that the thin case could limit performance as the thermals need more careful control.

I was right. The Elite Dragonfly Max didn't do particularly well, but it was a bit disappointing compared to the competition.

The Elite Dragonfly Max felt very fast on typical productivity tasks.

In Geekbench 5, for example, the Elite Dragonfly Max came last in our comparison group. The difference wasn't pronounced when compared to the other Intel Tiger Lake laptops – the AMD Ryzen 7 5800U-based Asus ZenBook 13 OLED dominated all CPU-intensive benchmarks – but it was disappointing that the HP fell so low. In our Handbrake test, which encodes a 420MB video as H.265, the Elite Dragonfly Max again came last, and the difference was bigger than the HP Specter x360 14 (which was much faster in performance mode). The same was true for Cinebench R23, where the two HP laptops were close together and behind the rest of the pack (although the Specter x360 14 was much faster in performance mode).

I also tested the Elite Dragonfly Max using PCMark 10 where – you guessed it – it performed in line with the Specter x360 14 and slower than the rest of the field. However, the delta was lower in this test, except for the Asus ZenBook 13 OLED. Looking at the individual components of the PCMark 10 test, the Elite Dragonfly Max scores well in the Essentials section (web browsing, video conferencing, etc.), but falls behind in productivity and content creation.

In actual use, the Elite Dragonfly Max felt very fast on typical productivity tasks. And in fact, it's by no means a slow laptop. It just doesn't compare to its similarly configured competition.

Geekbench (single / multiple) Handbrake (seconds) Cinebench R23 (single / multiple) PCMark 10 3DMark time spy
HP Elite Dragonfly Max
(Core i7-1185G7)		 1570/5297 252 1385/3604 4724 1468
Asus ZenBook 13 OLED
(AMD-Ryzen7 5800U)		 1423/6758 124 1171/7824 6034 1342
Dell XPS 13 (Core i7-1185G7) 1549/5431 204 1399/4585 n / A 1380
HP Specter x360 14 (Core i7-1165G7) 1214/4117 236 1389/3941 4728 1457
Razer Book 13 (Core i7-1165G7) 1548/5374 210 1508/4519 4878 1776
Lenovo Yoga 9i 14 (Core i7-1185G7) 1532/5415 207 1435/4409 4800 1648

It's not much of a gaming laptop either. It does well in the 3DMark Time Spy test and beats some of the devices in the comparison group.

But in Fortnite it fell back again, only reaching 22 frames per second (fps) in 1080p and high graphics, which is a few fps behind the typical Tiger Lake laptop with the same Intel Iris Xe graphics. In epic settings it fell to 18 fps, again a few fps below the Tiger Lake average.

Display and audio

The HP Elite Dragonfly Max's 1080p screen.Mark Coppock / Digital Trends

The Elite Dragonfly Max has a display option, the Sure View Reflect privacy screen from HP with full HD resolution (1,920 x 1,080) and an old-school aspect ratio of 16: 9. That's compared to the G2 version, which offers standard IPS Full HD and 4K options. This is an unusual ad that has two distinct personalities.

With privacy mode turned off, the display is incredibly bright at 1,000 nits. My test device "only" returned 417 nits, which is great, but I should see around 758 nits after HP tests a second device they sent because of the discrepancy. There seems to be something about the display technology that makes our usual colorimeter tests difficult, and as I tried, I couldn't get this brightness. The contrast was excellent at 1,380: 1 (anything above 1,000: 1 is very good) and black text appeared on a white background. Combined with the excellent keyboard, this is a great laptop for a writer. Plus, with its 458 nits of brightness and 1350: 1 contrast, the display does well with the Dell XPS 13 Full HD display, and it was brighter than the Specter x360 14's OLED display, which came in at 374 nits, however Was not comparable to the Specter's 374,200: 1 aspect ratio (that's OLED for you).

It's fine for an individual to use, but not a great screen to share.

The colors were average for premium productivity laptops, which means they were good but not the level creative types are looking for. The AdobeRGB coverage was 74% and the sRGB coverage was 97%, which are good values, but again not as broad as creatives would like. The colors were reasonably accurate with a Delta E of 2.49 (1.0 or less is considered excellent). The XPS 13 had 75% AdobeRGB and 98% sRGB coverage and an accuracy of 1.36, while the Specter x360 14 had very wide colors at 96% AdobeRGB and 100% sRGB with a color accuracy of 0.69.

Overall, the display in standard mode is great for productivity and media consumption. The only negative is that the viewing angles are a bit narrow. Look from any angle other than straight ahead and the display will darken and lose fidelity. It's fine for an individual to use, but not a great screen to share.

Turn on privacy mode and everything will change. The brightness drops sharply – my colorimeter wasn't able to accurately measure the display in private mode – and while it's still usable, it won't overcome bright skylights. The colors stay decent, the accuracy seems good, and the contrast doesn't seem to let up much. It's still a good productivity display, but that's not its calling card. More importantly, it works perfectly as a privacy screen and is completely grayed out when you move away from direct view. For example, if you sit in the middle seat on an airplane, your screen will be completely illegible to those to your left and right.

I'm working on solving the brightness issue in standard mode, but it's not a big deal. This is a great display for both standard productivity work in any setting and for your work in relative privacy.

The upward-facing speakers on the HP Elite Dragonfly Max.Mark Coppock / Digital Trends

The audio quality is excellent thanks to four speakers tuned by Bang & Olufsen, two upward-facing speakers on each side of the keyboard and two downward-facing speakers on the bottom of the case. Each speaker is powered by its own dedicated intelligent amplifier. HP is promoting the laptop's bass, which is a valid boast – not only was the volume very loud and undistorted, with crisp and crisp mids and highs, but there was a noticeable hint of bass too.

These are excellent speakers for such a small laptop, and while they can't compete with the great audio on the MacBook Pro, they do better than most Windows 10 laptops. You can use them for most of your listening, including the noise of Netflix and listening to music. Headphones are optional.

Video conferencing

The 5 megapixel webcam of the HP Elite Dragonfly Max.Mark Coppock / Digital Trends

Where the Max version differs from the G2 version are the video conferencing functions. This starts with the webcam, which is not your typical, low-quality 720p laptop webcam that has nothing special to write about. This is a 5 megapixel webcam with a larger sensor, auto exposure for faces, and careful tuning for maximum performance. My house is in the process of being renovated so I don't have an attractive background to show off the quality of the camera. Still, it's noticeably improved over the previous model and the other laptops I have lying around. HP tested the webcam with several competitors and across the board achieved higher texture quality, better color accuracy, and more even colors in an image.

In terms of resolution, it's even better than the 1080p webcams that come out like those on some newer ThinkPads. The Elite Dragonfly Max can handle videos up to 1440p, using 4.15 MP of the available 5 MP.

The Max version also increases the G2's three microphones to four, with two facing forward and two facing the world. Artificial intelligence based noise cancellation is used to suppress background noise and improve the overall sound quality.

Simply put, the Elite Dragonfly Max is the dream video conferencing laptop that offers better pictures and sounds for more effective communication. If you work remotely and need the best video conferencing performance, this laptop should be on your shortlist.

Keyboard and touchpad

The HP Elite Dragonfly Max has an excellent keyboard.Mark Coppock / Digital Trends

HP makes great keyboards. The Specter range, for example, has had my favorite keyboard on Windows 10 laptops for a while. The Elite line has followed closely, and now the Elite Dragonfly Max and G2 have a new and even better version.

First off, the keyboard is solid. that is, it is consistent across all keys. This is unusual and makes typing more efficient and less tiring because your fingers don't feel any different when they fly across the keyboard. The switches are firm, but not too tight, and provide just the right amount of feedback with a bouncy bottom motion that makes each key very precise. Although the laptop is small, I found the key spacing to be ample and the keycaps to be a comfortable size. I type faster and more accurately on this keyboard than any other I've used – with the exception of Apple's Magic Keyboard on the latest MacBooks. And I would say the Elite Dragonfly Max keyboard is right there with the excellent version from Apple.

The touchpad is as big as the frame size and the 16: 9 aspect ratio display (bigger displays have got bigger touchpads lately thanks to the extra vertical space), and it's extremely comfortable to use. The clicks are subtle and quiet, with a high quality feel. Of course, it's a Microsoft Precision touchpad, so multitouch gestures are safe and precise. Aside from its size, this touchpad rivals those of the Dell XPS 13 and HP Specter x360 14 which are excellent.

The display is of course touch-enabled and reacts as usual. It supports HP's Wacom AES 2.0 active pen with 4,096 levels of pressure sensitivity, tilt support and USB-C charging. One was not bundled with my review unit – it's a $ 74 option – so unfortunately I couldn't test it that way.

Battery life

The 360-degree hinge of the HP Elite Dragonfly Max.Mark Coppock / Digital Trends

The Elite Dragonfly Max comes with a 56 watt-hour battery and a full HD display (but with two modes, which I'll go into in a moment). I was expecting battery life to be a strength, as was the case with the original version.

As it turned out, the battery life wasn't quite up to the same standards. While the first generation Elite Dragonfly reached 10.5 hours in our web browsing test, the Max reached 9.75 hours. Well, anything close to 10 hours on this test should be considered a good score, but more laptops recently have hit this number and beyond. The Elite Dragonfly Max score is now more average than outstanding, and while it promises a full business day of battery life, some other newer laptops are stronger. For example, the HP Envy 14 managed over 12.5 hours, while the Asus ZenBook 13 OLED managed a very strong 15.75 hours. The Dell XPS 13 Full HD was not as competitive with only 8.5 hours, while the HP Specter x360 14 with its power-hungry OLED display only lasted 6.95 hours.

In our video test replaying a 1080p movie trailer, the Elite Dragonfly Max achieved 13.5 hours, which is a decent result, but not much better than average. The Envy 14 lasted almost an hour longer and the ZenBook 13 OLED reached 15.5 hours, while the XPS 13 lagged behind with 12 hours and the Specter x360 14 came last in this group with just over 10 hours.

I ran the PCMark 10 gaming test to see how the laptop performed under load on the CPU and GPU and it lasted 4.9 hours, which is almost the longest we've seen. Only the LG Gram 16 lasted longer, by just seven minutes. Of course, this probably indicates that the Elite Dragonfly Max isn't really trying to put itself under extreme strain on battery power – something to keep in mind when working without a power outlet. Finally, I ran the PCMark 10 application test, which is the best indicator of productivity on battery life, and the Elite Dragonfly Max lasted a little over 11 hours. That's a strong result in the top tier of the limited number of laptops we tested.

Interestingly, the battery life is better with data protection mode on than with it off. With the privacy screen activated, the Elite Dragonfly Max managed 11.5 hours in our web browsing test, 14.25 hours in our video test, and 14 hours in the PCMark 10 application test. Using the privacy mode not only doesn't harm your battery life, it also increases it significantly.

Overall, I would rate the battery life as good, but not great. Again, you can work the laptop for a full day without plugging it in, but it falls behind some of the competition. That's more a matter of laptop battery life improving further than an indictment against the Elite Dragonfly Max.

Our opinion

If you are a businessman who does a lot of videoconferencing and has a corporate budget, you will no doubt find the Elite Dragonfly Max a tempting option. It's incredibly well built, has several real value-added features, and has some of the best security and privacy features you can find on a laptop.

It's also expensive, offers average performance and battery life, and you might not be interested in some of the features it offers. That makes this a great laptop, but primarily for a specific audience.

Any alternatives?

The Lenovo ThinkPad X13 Yoga is another business-class 2-in-1 for you to consider. It's not that expensive, but it doesn't offer the same range of features. If your needs aren't that specific, this is a good option to consider.

If you don't care about business features, then the HP Specter x360 14 is in many ways a superior 2-in-1 with better performance, a better display for creative professionals but no privacy screens, and much a lower price tag. It would also be a viable alternative if you aren't that concerned about security and privacy.

Finally, if you aren't into 2-in-1 functionality or business-class features, the old standby mode is yours: the Dell XPS 13. It remains one of the best laptops you can buy, and you do get better performance and a smaller chassis for less money.

How long it will take?

The Elite Dragonfly Max is so well built that you will be using it for years to come. You will likely find that the 16: 9 aspect ratio display will appear increasingly dated, but that is the only component that is currently not up to date with the latest technology. However, you will surely appreciate the three year warranty we would like to see on all laptops.

Should you buy it?

Yes. You have to be a special breed to want the Elite Dragonfly Max, but if you are, then you really will want it.

Editor's recommendations



04 Jul
Blog

LG SP9YA Soundbar Review: Setting A High Bar For Dolby Atmos

LG SP9YA Dolby Atmos soundbar

"The LG SP9YA soundbar transforms any room into an immersive, Dolby Atmos-powered home theater."

  • Great and immersive Dolby Atmos

  • Easy adjustment

  • Chromecast and AirPlay 2

  • Level and EQ controls

  • Hi-Res audio capabilities

  • Hard-wired power cord

  • Cannot access network music libraries

  • Only one HDMI input

LG has a good track record of making feature-packed sound bars that also produce stunning, room-filling sound. Its $ 1,000 SP9YA is the company's latest effort in the field and continues the 9-series legacy of putting a ton of audio features (like Dolby Atmos and DTS: X) into just one soundbar and wireless subwoofer. For people who want big, cinematic sound and a simple setup, it's an attractive option.

Want to know what LG has changed with the new SP9YA and how it fares? We have all the details here.

What's new?

The SP9YA takes over the baton of the SN9YG from 2020. Although the two products are almost identical, LG has made two small but important changes:

  • The SP9YA dispenses with the Google Assistant-based smart speaker function of the 9YG, but remains Google Assistant-compatible.
  • The SP9YA is AirPlay 2-capable and Chromecast-capable. The 9YG only supported Chromecast.

What's in the box?

Scope of delivery of the LG SP9YA Dolby Atmos soundbar.Simon Cohen / Digital Trends

Inside the huge shipping box – which uses completely recyclable materials inside and out – you'll find the soundbar, a wireless subwoofer with power cord, two mounting brackets and screws, a wall mount template, a remote control with AA batteries, an optical cable, and some very basic quick start paper materials .

Why LG included an optical cable but not an HDMI cable remains a mystery, but you need one to get the best possible sound from your TV.

design

Like its predecessors, the SP9YA is a large, 48-inch wide soundbar that looks great in front of a 50-inch or larger TV, but could easily outshine a smaller screen. Its relatively small stature (only 2.24 inches tall) makes it unlikely to obscure the bottom of a large or small TV.

LG kept the look of the brushed aluminum finish on both the soundbar and subwoofer, a smart choice as it minimizes the appearance of a fairly large set of speakers. The only thing that breaks the otherwise seamless design is the circular upward-facing driver grille. I prefer Dolby Atmos soundbars that hide these height drivers, like the Sonos Arc and Vizio Elevate, but that's really a matter of personal preference.

A number of touch controls for volume, power, source selection, play / pause, Bluetooth, and Wi-Fi are conveniently located at the top of the bar, but are barely noticeable. In fact, the SP9YA disappears almost entirely in a darkened room with the exception of the front-facing LED display, which is hidden behind the metal grille (which dims but never completely turns off).

The wireless subwoofer uses a front firing design which in my opinion often outperforms down firing units of the same performance.

My only concern is the soundbar's hard-wired power cord – it could make some installations really difficult, especially if you have to run the cord through cabinet openings that are too small to accommodate the size of the wall plug. While LG TVs have detachable power cords, if you remove a faceplate first, I don't see any way to do that with the SP9YA.

Inputs and outputs

LG SP9YA Dolby Atmos soundbar connectors.Simon Cohen / Digital Trends

There are only four connections on the back of the SP9YA: a 4K / Dolby Vision-capable HDMI input, an HDMI ARC / eARC output, an optical input and a USB connection for memory-based music playback. I'd prefer to see more HDMI inputs at this price, and I'm surprised there isn't an analog input or ethernet jack, but these aren't deal-breakers.

Basic setup of the SP9YA is a breeze. Grab the remote control and you can enjoy the TV sound.

The good news is that unlike some soundbars that treat the HDMI and Optical inputs as a single input (meaning you can use one or the other, but not both), the SP9YA considers these ports to be discrete inputs . You can connect a streaming media player, cable box, or Blu-ray player to the HDMI input port while using the optical port for an audio source such as a CD player or Sonos device. Each can be selected as their own source, so you have a pretty good range of connected devices.

Setup and configuration

Basic setup of the SP9YA is a breeze. Simply connect the soundbar to your TV with HDMI or optical cables, connect the wireless subwoofer to the wall, do the same to the soundbar and turn it on. The soundbar and subwoofer automatically establish a wireless connection, which is confirmed by a solid green light on the back of the subwoofer. Grab the remote control and you can enjoy the TV sound.

However, much deeper options are available with the remote control and the free LG Sound Bar app.

The first thing to consider is using the AI. Room calibration function. The bar emits a series of test tones in a matter of seconds, and the two built-in microphones determine how the acoustics of your room affect performance. Conveniently, you can hear pre- and post-noises with the app so that you can decide which is better. I didn't notice much of a difference, but that could simply be a function of the particular space I was using.

You can switch the soundbar to Bluetooth mode at any time and pair it with a phone, tablet or other Bluetooth device. However, if you want a variety of better audio options and deeper settings, it's worth connecting the SP9YA to your Wi-Fi network.

Once you've done that, you can add the soundbar to Google Home, Amazon Alexa, or Apple HomeKit, use Spotify Connect, and then stream audio to the system via Chromecast or AirPlay 2. I'll discuss why this is a must-do in a moment.

Given that the SP9YA has Chromecast and Google Assistant compatibility, it's great that LG doesn't force you to complete the WiFi setup through the Google Home app – something we do a lot on Chromecast devices like the Bang & Olufsen Beosound see stage. You can always add the SP9YA to the Google Home app if you want, but it's up to you.

Apple's AirPlay 2 is also available as soon as you connect to WiFi – no additional configuration required.

user friendliness

LG SP9YA Dolby Atmos Soundbar Remote Control.Simon Cohen / Digital Trends

The included remote control for the SP9YA is well designed from an ergonomic point of view – it fits the hand comfortably and is easy to use – but it has no backlighting, which makes working in a dark room a little more difficult.

When connected to your TV via HDMI ARC / eARC, most TV remotes should be able to control the volume and mute of the soundbar. I've also found that streaming media devices plugged into the soundbar's HDMI input can control these features as well (I've tried it with an Apple TV 4K and an Nvidia Shield TV). Typically televisions connected by the optical cable will not be able to control the volume of the soundbar unless you have an LG TV. In this case, enabling your TV's Sound Sync option should give you this option.

You can also use the remote control for more advanced functions: a four-way directional pad allows you to navigate deeper settings such as speaker levels. But the LG Sound Bar app is so good that I highly recommend using it instead of the remote control for these advanced settings. You can view all available channels (subwoofer, center, side, overhead, etc.) along with the sliders for each.

The SP9YA is an incredibly powerful system for movies and music.

The only area that lacks ease of use is in music playback. As a wifi connected speaker, there should be a way to access your personal media stored on a computer or hard drive connected to your network, but the Sound Bar app lacks that option and there is no way to do this with the remote control either.

If you want to play music from a USB storage device at the same time, you have to use the remote control to navigate through the content – the app cannot see or control this music.

Sound quality

LG SP9YA Dolby Atmos soundbar.Simon Cohen / Digital Trends

The SP9YA is an incredibly powerful system for movies and music. When I'm not checking sound bars, my normal system is a Pioneer Dolby Atmos receiver connected to a 5.1.2 set of discrete speakers, including ceiling-mounted speakers just above the listening area. The SP9YA is the first soundbar I've tested that comes close to this setup in terms of immersion.

No, it is not a direct replacement, but a very attractive alternative given its price and simplicity.

Dolby Atmos is the star of this show. I think the soundbar handles all audio formats just fine, but whoever buys the SP9YA owes it to themselves to look for movies on Netflix, Disney +, Amazon Prime Video, or other sources that have an Atmos soundtrack.

Whether it's fast-paced car scenes in Mad Max: Fury Road, Ford versus Ferrari, or John Wick: Chapter 2, or the superhero action in a Marvel movie, the SP9YA has the sheer power it takes to recreate the tension in the theater during its Height and side channel drivers deliver convincing 3D effects. The wireless sub does an excellent job of delivering deep bass that you can feel in your chest, but it's also a subtle feat that never drowns out the rest of the soundtrack.

If you live in a condo or share a wall with your neighbors, you might as well invite them to watch with you, as they will hear and feel these explosions too.

If you'd like, you can add LG's optional SPK8-S wireless surround speakers for $ 180 for a 7.1.2 experience. They add to the sense of depth, but they don't add anything to the Dolby Atmos height channels.

Pro tip: Use the soundbar app to level up the overhead channels. This is the key to hearing the sounds that make Atmos, well, Atmos-y.

When playing Atmos content, the optional sound effect settings (eight of which are available) are inactive. However, when playing non-Atmos audio, settings like music, movies, or games can have a huge impact on the sound you get. Rather than relying on LG's labels and assuming that Cinema is best for movies, I suggest that you try them all out. LG's AI Sound Pro setting is supposed to automatically detect what type of audio you're listening to and choose the best setting accordingly, but I didn't always find it to my liking.

For example, when streaming music, the game mode turned out to be a better choice than the actual music setting. Likewise, the Bass Blast mode – which is meant to boost low frequencies – seemed to be doing just the opposite.

Aside from the quirk of the label, I had no problem with the SP9YA producing satisfactory audio from TV shows, movies, and music. If you've been thinking of a soundbar to improve the clarity of dialogue, the SP9YA is a solid choice. I found speech very intelligible even with the default settings, and was able to make it clearer with both the Clear Voice mode and by boosting the center channel output.

For music, I can't recommend using Wi-Fi strongly enough. Bluetooth comes in handy when you have guests and want them to quickly play something from their phones, but for pure audio quality, AirPlay 2 and Chromecast are orders of magnitude better than Bluetooth.

Our opinion

LG's SP9YA delivers amazing immersive sound from a single soundbar and subwoofer, making it one of the easiest ways to enjoy Dolby Atmos movies and music at home.

Is there a better alternative?

Finding a direct alternative to the LG SP9YA is difficult. Not many sound bars offer a full 5.1.2 channel configuration from a single speaker plus subwoofer.

The $ 799 Sonos Arc is great for Dolby Atmos and overall a more versatile choice as it can be used as an Alexa or Google Assistant smart speaker and has the best streaming and multiroom capabilities in the industry. But you can only use it with a Sonos Sub – a very expensive wireless speaker for $ 699. That combination is well above the $ 1,000 price of the SP9YA. The Arc also lacks an HDMI input, making it less convenient for those with a lot of HDMI source devices.

The $ 1,000 Vizio Elevate is probably the best comparison. It has excellent Dolby Atmos and DTS: X sound and one of the best soundbar remotes, but you have to deal with the extra surround speakers that are firmly attached to the wireless subwoofer. It's also a better choice for movies than music – there's no support for Hi-Res lossless audio or Apple AirPlay 2.

We haven't reviewed Samsung's new $ 1,300 in 2021 HW-Q900A 7.1.2 Soundbar yet, but given its specs and our reviews of previous Samsung soundbars, it could be the SP9YA's toughest competitor.

How long it will take?

Audio devices such as sound bars tend to last for many years. They are not moved much after installation, and heat build-up (the cause of many electronic failures) is rarely a problem. It is only unknown how long LG will keep the SP9YA up to date with new software. It should still work fine without updates to TV audio, but some features, like AirPlay streaming, could lose support in the long run. LG backs the SP9YA with a standard one-year warranty.

Should you buy it?

Yes. If you're ready to dive into immersive Dolby Atmos audio and have access to streaming movies or music using this 3D format, this is the LG SP9YA is a fantastic choice.

Editor's recommendations



03 Jul
Blog

Mario Golf: Super Rush Review: A Few Clubs Short of a Bag

Mario, Wario and Rosalina are running in Mario Golf: Super Rush.

Mario Golf: Super Rush – Nintendo Switch

"Mario Golf: Super Rush offers elegant golf systems, but no content that makes good use of them."

  • Excellent golf mechanics

  • Funny motion control

  • Strong multiplayer

  • Creative party modes

  • Weak adventure

  • Too few courses

  • Missing content

Mario Golf: Super Rush is a case where the master becomes a student. When the original Mario Golf launched in 1999, there wasn't much competition in the golf simulator market. It's a much more crowded field these days thanks to the recent wave of outstanding indie golf games. With Super Rush, Nintendo seems to be taking notes of the very titles it inspired.

That's not to say that it isn't pushing its limits. Like other parts of the sports series, the new Nintendo Switch game features fine-tuned golf gameplay that constantly reminds players why Mario became the king of the fairway in the first place. It's just that a lot of what it brings to the table has been done better in recent years by “rookies” who have a firmer grip on how to string an entire game together.

Mario Golf: Super Rush features the best core golf mechanic the series has to offer. Unfortunately, the experience disappoints with a mysteriously sparse package that doesn't offer enough good reasons to refuse.

Eagle

Even if there is a lot to criticize about the overall package, the 18-hole round in Mario Golf: Super Rush is an absolute pleasure. For decades, the developer Camelot has refined its golf mechanics and constantly improved a wheel that doesn't need to be reinvented. Super Rush is the culmination of over two decades of work and features elegant golf systems that anchor the experience.

At a basic level, it doesn't seem that much different than any other golf game. On the right side of the screen is an indicator that determines how much power goes into a shot. Press a button to initiate a shot, press again to set how far the ball will fly, and watch a golf ball sail away on a satisfactory shot.

Mario hits out of a bunker in Mario Golf: Super Rush.

However, what is so appealing about Super Rush is that players think a lot more about the shape of their shot. In many golf games, it is easy to hit the ball as hard as possible every time, ignoring all the nuances. That is not the case here. It does an excellent job of visually communicating all of the little things that affect the trajectory of a shot. As you descend a hill, the shot indicator flexes to show exactly how it is off course. There is also a red "Risk Zone" that appears at the top of the display, which signals that a full-force stroke may lose some control. Small hints like this make every shot a more active experience, calculating risks and mitigating variables.

In addition, it makes some of the more complex systems in golf easy to understand and execute. To add topspin or backspin, tap the right button when setting the shot indicator, while spin is applied simply by pressing the joystick as the indicator builds up. It's all so intuitive and invites players to actually use each system instead of writing them off as expert techniques.

Super Rush is the culmination of over two decades of work and features elegant golf systems that anchor the experience.

It's worth noting that this is the first Mario Golf game to ever have motion controls, as the series completely missed the Wiimote era. While high-level gamers will likely stick to button controls, this is a fun and functional option for those looking to exercise. Additionally, the motion controls work in almost every mode, which is a huge step up from the little-used Mario Tennis Aces motions.

This is simply the best the sport has ever felt in a Mario Golf game, and maybe in general. As someone who has played countless golf games over the years, this was one of the first times that I really felt like I was using every tool in my pocket.

Where is the content?

The question is: what can you actually do with this tight system? This is where Super Rush takes a disappointing turn. There's a bizarre lack of content in the game. It includes a normal golf mode that allows players to play any of its six courses freely, and a somewhat ridiculous "Challenge" tab on the main menu that only has a point attack and time attack option.

Most of the content is in the game's Adventure mode, which brings back the roots of the series' RPG history. Players create a Mii character and follow him through a half-baked story full of diverse golf challenges. Players compete in different types of matches, improve their stats as they level up, and purchase a small handful of gear along the way.

When it ended, I returned to the main menu and stared at the screen, unsure of what to do next.

The entire experience feels more like a tutorial for the game's multiplayer modes than anything else. It walks players through the basics of new ideas, like a stamina knife that comes into play in game modes where players actually walk the fairway between shots. Because of this, it never meditates on anything for too long or asks players to improve their skills. Each challenge feels like a basic introduction that is gone as soon as it starts. As soon as the campaign waits until the end to introduce crazier ideas like boss fights where players have to coordinate their shots perfectly to blast elemental explosions back at huge creatures, the adventure ends.

The level-up screen in Adventure Mode in Mario Golf Super Rush.

I finished Adventure Mode in six hours, bought every single piece of gear, and unlocked all six courses. When it ended, I returned to the main menu and stared at the screen, unsure of what to do next. It felt like I had hit a dead end where all I had to do was try to improve my score on the same few courses. Each character has two sets of unlockable clubs that they get by collecting enough "points", but that's the scope of the post-adventure hook.

It's really bizarre when you compare it to previous Mario Golf games. I spent over 30 hours in the Nintendo 3DS title Mario Golf: World Tour completing challenges, unlocking characters, and collecting all the gear I could equip my characters with. Super Rush is just not a game for solo players looking to put their skills to the test, which makes it an expensive alternative to great (and cheaper) Switch contemporaries like Golf Story.

Golf with your friends

The lack of single player content could suggest that Nintendo is viewing this as more of a multiplayer party game. It's an understandable mindset because that's where the game shines. Playing a round of golf with friends is a relaxing multiplayer experience perfect for carefree trash talks. Super Rush is also possibly the most stable online Nintendo experience I've ever had, which makes it even more appealing than trying to play something like Super Smash Bros. Ultimate with friends.

All three game types have unique strengths, but they ultimately get disappointed with the same content issue that plagues single players.

The default golf mode is the star of the show here, thanks to small quality of life improvements that make the game faster. For example, an “all at once” option lets all players tee off independently, so no one has to wait while a perfectionist friend finishes his shot.

For those who find normal golfing too dry, Super Rush has some clever modes that feel like they are for parties. In speed golf, players literally race across the fairway to be the first to complete a hole. Characters can crash into each other between shots or fire special shots that can confuse their opponents. Luigi's Special, for example, can conjure up a large patch of ice on the floor that makes putting a slippery affair. It's a messy mode that adds lots of laughs to a traditionally no-nonsense game.

A round of battle golf in Mario Golf: Super Rush.

Battle golf is a slight variation on this idea, but it takes place in a small circular arena with nine holes. The first player to claim three holes wins, which leads to really tense fighting when there are only a flag or two left.

All three game types have unique strengths, but they ultimately get disappointed with the same content issue that plagues single players. There are only two arenas available in Battle Golf, one of which is just a small variation on the other. With just six main courses, standard and speed matches get thin after a session or two.

Nintendo confirmed that Super Rush will be receiving free DLC, so maybe we should expect the slow, steady roll-out of a live service game here. There will be more courses and characters to come, so eventually there will be more reasons to play. Give me an excuse to go back to the fairway and I'll block an evening to play a new 18-hole with my friends – this is how good golfing feels. Until then, Mario Golf: Super Rush has about as much depth as a par-2 course.

Our opinion

On paper, Mario Golf: Super Rush should be a hole-in-one. The basic golf experience has never been better, and multiplayer modes like Speed ​​Golf offer a clever twist on the formula for the casual gamer. There isn't much else to do other than the brief, disappointing adventure mode. Free DLC should help make up for it in the long run, but a general lack of content leaves the package half-dry for now.

Is there a better alternative?

Golf Story features a much better version of Super Rush's Adventure mode, and Apple Arcade's Clap Hanz Golf is a great option for those who want a simple golfing experience.

How long it will take?

Adventure mode will be over in six hours. After that, it's all about how much you can milk from the six aisles and multiplayer.

Should you buy it?

No. At least not at the moment. After a few free DLC courses, it may be worth buying, but the lack of actual game modes makes it difficult to justify the full price by then.

Editor's recommendations



03 Jul
Blog

Eufy SoloCam E40 Review: The Anti-Subscription Security Cam

Rectangular design of the Eufy SoloCam E40.

“Who would like to pay for another subscription service? The Eufy SoloCam E40 defies this trend. "

  • Does not require a subscription service

  • Razor-sharp night vision quality

  • Above average battery life

  • Fight with dynamic range

Digital subscriptions are ubiquitous, especially in the security camera world. Users can only access premium features like cloud storage or artificial intelligence surveillance by paying for a subscription service. Between paying for YouTube Music, Amazon Prime, and Apple Fitness +, my bank account withdrawals for recurring payments are at an all-time high – so it would be a relief to potentially prevent another pinning.

The Eufy SoloCam E40 is the first of many new security cameras to hit the market this year that frees us from the shackles of subscription services as it is a standalone all-in-one security camera system. There is no need for a separate hub to store footage on a microSD card or subscription service for remote access to footage. The included data sheet sweetens the deal as it offers 2K video recording and a battery life of 120 days. A dream comes true – or does it?

Design: Say goodbye to the hub

First of all, I have to point out that previous outdoor surveillance cameras from Eufy required the use of a bridge – something that excites me that is no longer the case with the Eufy SoloCam E40. Because the camera now connects directly to the WLAN, which is a welcome relief.

Back cover of the Eufy SoloCam E40.John Velasco / Digital Trends

With its design, an elongated, rectangular shaped chassis that is quite light and solidly built, there is nothing out of the ordinary. With the all-plastic construction, it has a waterproof protection class IP65, which keeps it operational in all weather conditions. Even if I don't mind the supplied screw attachment, I would have liked a magnetic attachment as an option for quick and easy removal.

Installation: Ready to use in around five minutes

With the hub not in the equation, getting the Eufy SoloCam E40 up and running is a breeze. In fact, it took me about five minutes to complete. Once out of the box, all I have to do is run the app and then point the QR code at the camera to connect it to my home's Wi-Fi network.

Eufy SoloCam E40 on external screw mounting.John Velasco / Digital Trends

There were no problems with the installation, so I had to screw the bracket to the wall using the screws that came with it. Although it is advertised as an outdoor camera, it can easily be converted to an indoor camera as well as it is a wireless camera that does not require constant power to operate. If you want to save yourself the hassle of charging, you can connect it to a power source via its micro-USB port, which is hidden behind the rear cover.

Features: All the basics at your disposal

Today's cameras have some advanced features like face recognition to distinguish people, package detection to protect shipments from pirates, HDR recording, and even the ability to digitally pan and zoom a person. Advanced features like this can be found in top-notch cameras like the Arlo Pro 4, but the Eufy SoloCam E40 gives you the basics.

Well, that's not a bad thing, especially when it's effective in monitoring, detecting, and providing a general sense of security. The range of functions consists of activity zones, person recognition, night vision and local storage. With the latter, however, the Eufy SoloCam E40 does not use a microSD slot like other cams, but instead has its own 8 GB integrated memory. This can be alarming in the event of the camera being stolen, but the footage is protected by military-grade encryption.

The range of functions is rounded off by an integrated 90 dB siren, two-way communication and support for Google Assistant and Amazon Alexa. These are all contemporary features of today's security cameras, but nothing out of the ordinary compared to what other notable cameras in the field have to offer.

Video Quality: A few minor nuances in 2K videos

Another aspect of the Eufy SoloCam E40 that I really appreciate is that it doesn't settle for 1080p footage, but instead opts for 2K (2,304 x 1,296) videos. The preview of the footage on my smartphones is very clear. It does struggle with dynamic range, however, which can be seen in how highlights are blown out unlike the rest of the scenery. In addition, the film material is sharpened too much and a colder color temperature is preferred. While the overall quality is still cheap, it records clips at a slower rate of 15 frames per second (fps) – far less than the 30 fps standard found on other cameras.

In contrast, the night vision material is incredibly clear, razor sharp and well lit. With the help of its infrared LEDs, the Eufy SoloCam E40 has captured some deer walking through my garden with breathtaking clarity. Fortunately, there is no drop in the frame rate with night vision as the same rate of 15 fps is maintained. The only things missing here that would add significantly to the arsenal are color night vision and a headlight.

Battery life: go the distance

After testing the Eufy SoloCam E40 for a week, I'm happy to report that the battery life is still 100%. I know it's technically not at 100%, but it's charged enough to indicate a full charge. My only complaint is that you have to go through the power manager's settings to see the percentage as the app only shows a battery icon with five bars on the main screen.

It's one less subscription service that you have to worry about paying.

Of course, battery life will depend on a lot of factors, but I'm hoping for the 120-day rating. It's ambitious, but certainly not out of style, as the Arlo Essential XL has been chugging for over 90 days since I last charged it.

Our opinion

Eufy's new camera isn't groundbreaking, but it doesn't have to be if it does the job safely by notifying me of relevant detection notifications. It's at least capable of distinguishing humans from animals, but the Eufy SoloCam E40 really gets my attention because it's a complete system that works out of the box – something that doesn't require paid subscription services.

At $ 130, it's mid-range, which is reasonable for its offering and performance. Hey, at least it's one less subscription service to worry about at the end of the month.

Is there a better alternative?

When it comes to features and performance, the Arlo Pro 4 Spotlight is still an incredible option because for $ 200 it offers 2K HDR video recording, advanced AI. Detection and color night vision.

The Wyze Cam Outdoor is a cheaper, full-featured option for $ 60 and even has a handy offline mode for recording footage to a MicroSD card when there is no Wi-Fi connectivity.

How long it will take?

The all-plastic construction feels sturdy, so I'm sure it will withstand all weather conditions. There is a one year limited warranty that covers defects.

Should you buy it?

You bet. It's one less subscription service that I have to pay for on a monthly basis. Plus, it strikes a balance with its price, features, and performance.

Editor's recommendations



03 Jul
Blog

WoW Burning Crusade Classic Review: Great Then, Ok Now

World of Warcraft Burning Crusade Classic Review presented wow

World of Warcraft Burning Crusade Classic Review: True to Its Roots

"Aside from a serious lack of player flexibility, Burning Crusade Classic is a rewarding MMORPG that is high-asking but is careful to tip generously."

  • Great community

  • Robust leveling experience

  • Rewarding RPG elements

  • Lack of helpful mechanics

  • Some design decisions show their age

The opportunity to revisit an iconic MMO like World of Warcraft after witnessing the growth, decline and reinterpretation of its entire genre is not often. So what did I find while playing World of Warcraft: The Burning Crusade Classic, an update to a game that once devoured my life as a lost, lonely teenager? The same thing I missed when I moved on: Community. And then I lost it. Again.

World of Warcraft's 2004 pop culture hit introduced players to fierce level grinds, sprawling PvP, and intricate, coordinated raids on bosses hideouts. It was a coming-of-age for the MMORPG genre that got it firmly into the mainstream. The Burning Crusade expansion years later challenged players to do it all all over again in a sprawling new zone with more bosses, bigger backstories, and even bigger weapons. It sounds easy; actually almost unnecessary. But it was exactly what the players wanted more of. And it worked.

A player avatar attacking the Fel Reaver from World of Warcraft: The Burning Crusade

Burning Crusade's storytelling methods are basically non-existent in the face of today's modern day MMOs, but the core experience is still a craze. At least it was for the first week or two.

A great start

Burning Crusade Classic begins like it did back then. As it should. The players sprint to the Blasted Lands south of the Eastern Kingdoms and storm wildly through the Dark Portal. The iconic gate was the starting point of Warcraft history in the 1990s, and when you trudge back through it with an army of friends and future allies, it never gets boring. It's just a shame it's so damn hard to stay with them after this lovely moment.

With no server downtime leading to the grand transition from Vanilla WoW to Burning Crusade Classic, Blizzard has really nailed the execution required to expand this gigantic MMO like the grand adventure that it is. Blizzard has had its fair share of disastrous online releases over the decades, but this was not one of them.

Without any problems, we were able to relive the iconic moment when waves of players stormed forward together and their passion for continuing the search that began years ago fueled their foray into the unknown. Hundreds went in, and server sharding – a method of temporarily dividing players among smaller servers – kept the first zone, where we were supposed to spend a dozen hours, from becoming overcrowded.

Blizzard has had its fair share of disastrous online releases over the decades, but this wasn't one of them.

A Tauren player character who rides a mount against the backdrop of the Hellfire Peninsula in Burning Crusade Classic.

Same game, different experience

Although I originally only started playing World of Warcraft when the Wrath of the Lich King expansion was just around the corner, some of my fondest memories come from the 60-70 experience presented here – the struggle to get the Hellfire Peninsula something exploring early at 58, a disdain for the Zangermarsh zone and a growing reverence for the vast green plains of Nagrand.

All of these memories came back as I spent two weeks rediscovering the place I called home as a teenager. The good, the bad and that which arrives differently after years with countless other supposed "WoW killers".

As fantastic as the hype and the structure of walking through the Dark Portal were, the fatal error has shown itself once again. The enemy? Nostalgia.

After the initial onslaught of players making their way through WoW Classic, the few who were late for the party struggled to make it to the top. They were brought in by the hype, but spat out by Blizzard's group-based hardcore game design. And it happens again.

A druid who fights an elemental in Burning Crusade Classic.

Since I've barely gone through half the leveling experience with work and other commitments, it's already become much more difficult to find people in my level who run the 16 hyper-specific dungeons of the expansion. Without them to replenish my experience points, I fight alone and do hundreds of repetitive quests in slightly different locations until I reach level 70.

When I get there, I don't have any social connections that bring me into the group content that players are leveling for in the first place. It's a curse. Those who are lagging behind will be forced to keep falling. And who knows how many will be left to do level 70 content when casual gamers like me catch up.

Create the problem, forget the solution

It's not that leveling is impossible without a few dungeon runs, but it's getting old. And lonely. As time goes on and as the player base continues to thin, we'll think about what could have been done to address the problem.

What World of Warcraft has always done well is delighting players with basic RPG mechanics. Leveling up can take some time, but that "thing" and every kill or search for it always feels rewarding. It can be tedious and unnecessarily time-consuming, but whether it's a new skill here or a rare random item, you'll be constantly fed cake on the way to the frosting.

As much as the classic experience is why we're here, the dual-spec feature from the Wrath of the Lich King below is a quality of life feature that should definitely have been brought forward. It could have made a huge difference without poisoning the well.

Most classes can fill two or all three of the usual roles in a group, but the "talent" system ties them to being viable in only one and makes exchanges increasingly expensive. The dual-spec feature basically gave players a secondary loadout to switch to when needed, which not only offered the ability to change role to a group if needed, but also to change their playstyle to avoid boredom by pressing the same buttons day in and day out.

The system had no drawbacks. It was just respect for a player's time. And when you're playing a class that caters to four different classes at once, it's annoying not to be able to be who my next team has to be.

A cat-shaped tauren druid battles a boar in Burning Crusade Classic.

(/ pullquote) After returning to Burning Crusade Classic, I'm reminded again of the magical modern MMOs that slipped away from me. (/ pullquote)

World of Warcraft: The Burning Crusade Classic may lack the hard-hitting story beats of most other games in its class, but the depth of its RPG elements represents old-fashioned values ​​still sorely missed in other MMOs. It's just a shame that some key tweaks haven't been brought forward to address the issues that the inevitably smaller player base is likely to encounter much sooner than the original version.

Our opinion

Whether you fight, craft, or collect, your actions always serve a purpose in the Burning Crusade Classic campaign. Everyone can feel like they are either contributing to their own guilds and groups, or to the server as a whole. Leveling up can feel sluggish at times, but talent points, meaningful equipment upgrades, and a clear endgame goal create an RPG experience that nonetheless makes it an experience that makes it an experience when you have the time, even when it's more demanding than we normally tolerate games like these.

Retail gamers can still see Burning Crusades Outland almost bit by bit without this release, but for veterans of the franchise it will feel like coming home with the title after a decade. As it should. It's just a shame that it doesn't last nearly as long this time.

Is there a better alternative out there?

If you prefer more flexibility in the use of time, Final Fantasy XIV is still a better option. The community is nice and creative, and you can play any role you want and level up in different ways to get there.

How long it will take?

It takes about 18 months for Wrath of the Lich King Classic to inevitably get World of Warcraft Classic back to its peak. Until then, more raids, new gear, and bigger stories will appear in the coming months.

You should buy it

Since it is technically only the price of a World of Warcraft subscription, absolutely. It's incredibly rare to have the opportunity to travel back in time with an ever-changing MMORPG. Experience history. You probably won't get a third chance.

Editor's recommendations



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