24 Feb
Blog

Amazon Echo Show 10 (3rd Gen) Review: A True Command Center

Amazon Echo Show 10 (3rd generation) on angle table

Amazon Echo Show 10 (3rd generation)

"It's not often that you get such a rich experience in a product, but the Amazon Echo Show 10 delivers."

  • Smooth and quiet panning

  • Acts effectively as a surveillance camera

  • Incredible audio performance

  • Flimsy plastic construction

After a few years in circulation, the second generation Echo Show 10 is finally getting a real successor, Amazon has announced. The timing is right considering the final try was the Echo Show 8, which we billed as perfection in terms of the lineup because it had the balance between size, performance and price. To stand out from previous offerings, the Amazon Echo Show 10 (3rd Generation) leverages everything the company has learned about developing smart displays and packaging in new features that make it a more convergent device for the home.

The headline here is how to mount the display on a rotating base for better visibility wherever you move. We have never seen that before. On top of that, it's a more complete package with a great smart speaker and a potential all-in-one security system to keep your home safe when you are away. This is something to be excited about!

Always in sight

As I have already described in detail, the Amazon Echo Show 10 (3rd generation) introduces a new feature that we have not yet seen in the series (or even in a smart display) – a brushless motor that has its 10.1 -Inch 1280 allows x 800 touchscreen to pan and cover an entire 360 ​​degree area. I found this convenience helpful as the display always has the correct line of sight, making it perfect for situations where I am moving and cannot physically be in front of the display.

John Velasco / Digital Trends

I was skeptical of this new implementation mainly because I didn't know how it was going to work. Fortunately, my concerns are allayed because in practice it moves smoothly and quietly and never jerks or jerks. When Alexa is on the phone or comes by, I have a bit more freedom if it is placed in an open place. Tracking is a bit problematic at distances over five feet, so I had to move closer for it to recognize me.

If you want to put it in a corner or a desk where it's in close proximity to other things, you can adjust the swivel threshold so it doesn't collide with those. I still found it a bit strange interacting with the touchscreen just because typing tends to jiggle the display a little from its position. Since it is not fixed, there is always that slight shake, but at least that's what the engine anticipates and I never feel like I might be ruining its engine.

Mash-up design that's hard to love

I can't say I'm in love with the new design. First, it's by far the strangest design in a smart display I've ever seen – sort of a marriage between an Amazon Kindle Fire tablet and an Echo Studio. While the mash-up looks weird, it doesn't help that the display's plastic casing feels cheap. The speaker area looks more modern and suits its contemporaries with its mesh fabric cover, which is available in anthracite or glacier white. I prefer the darker shade of charcoal as it is less prone to looking dirty over time.

Another point of contention for some will be the size of the Amazon Echo Show 10. I thought its predecessor was big, as was the Google Nest Hub Max, but the Echo Show 10 (3rd generation) takes up an even bigger footprint. Placed on my desk at home, its stout size makes for a narrower tabletop. However, it works well as a centerpiece on a neat kitchen countertop or coffee table.

Amazon Echo Show 10 (3rd generation) on the deskJohn Velasco / Digital Trends

Back to the display: it's sharp, bright, and has great viewing angles. The only complaint I have is that the contrast could be better. It can tilt too, but you have to do it manually. In contrast to the swivel function, the inclination of the display was retained as a manual process. This isn't a deal breaker due to the camera's wide field of view.

Secure your home when you are not there

Speaking of cameras: The Amazon Echo Show 10 (3rd generation) offers some much-needed security features thanks to its 13-megapixel wide-angle camera. Partly intelligent display, partly intelligent loudspeaker. This latest model can now also be classified as a security system. This is something I really appreciate because you have a device that encompasses all of these things.

When Alexa Guard is enabled, the Echo Show 10 listens for smoke and carbon monoxide sirens, as well as glass breaking when away from home. This is something that many Echo devices have, but the Echo Show 10 will soon have the ability to act as a sentinel for Alexa Guard Plus subscribers. The $ 5 per month service allows the Echo Show 10 to periodically pan the room to detect movement and then notify you through notifications.

Amazon Echo Show 10 (3rd generation) camera close-upJohn Velasco / Digital Trends

What about those who don't want to sign up? Well, you'll be happy to know that in the Echo Show 10, you can always access the camera through the Alexa app. There are also panning controls so you can keep the overview yourself. Of course, privacy is taken into account by a switch on the display that covers the camera and also effectively mutes it. Each time the camera is accessed, a notification will appear on the display informing you that the camera is active.

It's the most complete smart display with Alexa technology to date.

All of this compliments the Echo Show 10's arsenal, which matches the capabilities of the Google Nest Hub Max very well. It is a convergence device more than ever, which makes it an even more valuable part of the smart home.

The best speaker in a smart display

Not only do you get one of the best smart displays, but the Echo Show 10 is a worthy speaker that puts other smart displays to shame. Equipped with two 1-inch tweeters and a 3-inch woofer, the fact that it is an incredibly powerful speaker that can fill rooms enough cannot be hidden.

Amazon Echo Show 10 (3rd Generation) rear viewJohn Velasco / Digital Trends

Listening to music or watching action-packed films is a pleasure because of the loud volume. The audio section certainly favors the lower end, so you can expect great feedback from its woofer when the beat drops or an explosion occurs. In terms of raw performance, no other smart display can match its intensity – including the Google Nest Hub Max, which I would now consider a distant second in this department.

Its own command center

In view of the fact that the Amazon Echo Show 10 (3rd generation) extends its range beyond the basic functions of a smart display, it turns out to be an independent command center. With Alexa and responsive voice recognition, everyone can access and interact with the smart home exclusively by voice. Panning makes it more convenient to speak voice commands from anywhere in the room as the panning is done automatically in the direction of the voice.

In terms of raw performance, no other smart display can match its intensity.

In addition, you still get the same basic functions as the siblings, e.g. B. the ability to control smart lights, view the live stream of a surveillance camera and set up routines to optimize more processes.

Our opinion

Amazon is taking the appropriate steps to make the Echo Show 10 (3rd generation) a worthy successor that not only establishes itself as one of the leading smart displays on the market, but also replaces many other smart devices in the household. That's a big sale in itself, because for the $ 250 cost, you are effectively getting three basic smart home devices – a smart display, smart speaker, and security camera.

How long it will take

Although I am convinced of the smoothness of the brushless motor, I am still concerned about how it will last over the long term. There is also a fear that it will be knocked from everywhere it sits. In contrast to other smart displays, there are moving parts and attachments here. So this is a major concern. There is a one year limited warranty includedand Amazon offers extended warranties that cover damage.

Is there a better alternative?

If the size of the Echo Show 10 is just too big for your tastes, then consider the other smart displays in the Amazon portfolio: the Echo Show 5 and the Echo Show 8. The only other major competitor it has is the Google Nest Hub Max almost the same functions and features, but supported by the Google Assistant.

Should you buy it?

You bet. It's the most complete smart display with Alexa technology to date.

Editor's recommendations




23 Feb
Blog

Amazfit GTR 2e Review: It’s the GTR 2, Just Cheaper

amazfit gtr 2e smartwatch review wrist shirt

Amazfit GTR 2e Smartwatch

“The Amazfit GTR 2e is almost exactly the same as the Amazfit GTR 2, only $ 40 cheaper. Save yourself some cash and buy this one. "

  • Lots of workout and health tracking functions

  • Low price

  • Nice design

  • Convenient to carry

  • Limited notification support

  • Battery life much shorter than advertised

Smartwatch and wearables company Amazfit decided that their already inexpensive GTR 2 smartwatch wasn't good enough and announced the GTR 2e at CES 2021. It costs $ 140 compared to the $ 180 GTR 2 and looks almost identical on the surface.

Dig deeper and there are few changes that make us wonder why we should buy the GTR 2 in the first place. After a while with the GTR 2e, the answer is clear: save some money and buy the cheaper one. Let's get to the why.

design

Before we start, you should know that like the GTR 2, there are two models – the Amazfit GTR 2e with a round case and the GTS 2e with a square case, similar to the Apple Watch. Apart from the differences in design, the two watches are identical. So if you prefer the square version and want to know if it's any good, don't worry as all of the following about the GTR 2e apply to the GTS 2e.

Andy Boxall / Digital Trends

The design definitely lets you know that the GTR 2e is a "watch" as it has little visual impact as it is round, has two buttons and is attached to a bracelet. It's definitely not unattractive, but a little generic. The GTR 2e is available in a few colors, including a lighter green. In black, however, it is a simple, stealthy and inconspicuous smartwatch on the wrist.

Andy Boxall / Digital Trends

The case is made of aluminum alloy with curved glass over a 1.65-inch AMOLED screen with a resolution of 454 x 454 pixels and a PPI density of 341 pixels per inch, just like the GTR 2. Amazfit says it was vacuum coated applied to the tempered glass to ensure that it will withstand fingerprints. However, it doesn't have the added scratch protection that you get on the GTR 2's glass. The 2.5D curve on the body and glass is supposed to be different from the GTR 2's 3D curve, but I can barely feel any change when I directly compare the two.

Amazfit GTR 2e (right) and Amazfit GTR 2 (left) Andy Boxall / Digital Trends

It feels solid but is very light and can feel a little cheap. For example, the case back is plastic, and although it's made of glass above the screen, it's so thin that it doesn't feel like it. There are two buttons on the side of the body, the top one with a sporty red flash, and they have a precise, if not very tactile feel. It's all attached to a simple black silicone bracelet that offers lots of customization options and doesn't get uncomfortable. Due to the light construction and the soft strap, I was happy to wear the GTR 2e day and night.

amazfit gtr 2e smartwatch review dashboard face "class =" m-carousel - image dt-lazy-no "src =" https://icdn2.digitaltrends.com/image/digitaltrends/amazfit-gtr-2e-dashboard-face- 640x640 .jpg "srcset =" https://www.digitaltrends.com/data:image/gif;base64,https://www.digitaltrends.com/R0lGODlhAQABAIAAAAAAAP///yH5BAEAAAAALAAAAAABAAEAAAAndy Boxall / Digital Trends

amazfit gtr 2e smartwatch review petal face "class =" m-carousel - image dt-lazy-no "src =" https://icdn3.digitaltrends.com/image/digitaltrends/amazfit-gtr-2e-petal-face- 640x640 .jpg "srcset =" https://www.digitaltrends.com/data:image/gif;base64,https://www.digitaltrends.com/R0lGODlhAQABAIAAAAAAAP///yH5BAEAAAAALAAAAAABAAEAAAAndy Boxall / Digital Trends

amazfit gtr 2e smartwatch review wrist complications face "class =" m-carousel - image dt-lazy-no "src =" https://icdn4.digitaltrends.com/image/digitaltrends/amazfit-gtr-2e-wrist-complications -face -640x640.jpg "srcset =" https://www.digitaltrends.com/data:image/gif;base64,https://www.digitaltrends.com/R0lGODlhAQABAIAAAAAAAP///yH5BAEAAAAALAAAAAAABAAndy Boxall / Digital Trends

Dislikes surround the screen. The bezel of the GTR 2e is simpler and that of the GTR 2 and optically not so conspicuous. The thick bezel around the screen is very noticeable in some lighting conditions and angles. While the curve makes it easier to wipe, the tempered glass doesn't feel as comfortable. It's nowhere near as fluid or deliciously cold to the touch as the Apple Watch or high-quality Wear OS smartwatches like the Citizen CZ Smart. The small collection of watch faces is generic and boring.

Due to the light construction and the soft strap, I was happy to wear the GTR 2e day and night

You can't have it all for $ 140, and overall, the GTR 2e is a nice-looking, if somewhat generic, solidly made smartwatch. Despite the price difference, it isn't much different from the GTR 2 either, and there's absolutely no reason to spend more on it.

Software and operations

The Amazfit GTR 2e uses the company's own operating system rather than Google's Wear operating system, which syncs with the Zepp app on your phone. The setup process is quick, possibly faster than setting up a Wear OS watch. For the app, however, you need to check the phone's settings to give it various permissions. When you do this, you'll get notifications more reliably than most Wear OS smartwatches.

Andy Boxall / Digital Trends

Scrolling through the menus on the watch is done by swiping up and down the screen. The layout is familiar to anyone who has used a modern smartwatch – down for shortcuts, up for notifications, and up for various tile-style widgets. while the buttons open the menu or activate the training tracking.

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amazfit gtr 2e smartwatch verification settings "class =" m-carousel - image dt-lazy-no "src =" https://icdn6.digitaltrends.com/image/digitaltrends/amazfit-gtr-2e-settings-640x640.jpg " srcset = "https://www.digitaltrends.com/data:image/gif;base64,https://www.digitaltrends.com/R0lGODlhAQABAIAAAAAAAP///yH5BAEAAAAALAAAAAABAAEAAAIBRAA7Andy Boxall / Digital Trends

amazfit gtr 2e smartwatch review notifications "class =" m-carousel - image dt-lazy-no "src =" https://icdn7.digitaltrends.com/image/digitaltrends/amazfit-gtr-2e-notifications-640x640.jpg " srcset = "https://www.digitaltrends.com/data:image/gif;base64,https://www.digitaltrends.com/R0lGODlhAQABAIAAAAAAAP///yH5BAEAAAAALAAAAAABAAEAAAIBRAA7Andy Boxall / Digital Trends

amazfit gtr 2e smartwatch review spo2 "class =" m-carousel - image dt-lazy-no "src =" https://icdn8.digitaltrends.com/image/digitaltrends/amazfit-gtr-2e-spo2-640x640.jpg " srcset = "https://www.digitaltrends.com/data:image/gif;base64,https://www.digitaltrends.com/R0lGODlhAQABAIAAAAAAAP///yH5BAEAAAAALAAAAAABAAEAAAIBRAA7Andy Boxall / Digital Trends

Scrolling through the menus, opening the apps, and generally interacting with the watch is painless. It's fast and fluid enough not to be disruptive. Just don't expect the Apple Watch to be polished and smooth. Notifications are mostly reliable, but not every app delivers them. Microsoft Teams, for example, was a no-show, and when they arrive the text is sometimes strangely formatted. You can't interact with them either. Therefore, consider the notifications of the GTR 2e for your information only. When activated to wake up, the incoming notification is not always displayed, which reduces convenience.

I used the GTR 2e connected to a Xiaomi Mi 11 smartphone. The Zepp app collects all of your fitness tracking data and also has various settings for the watch. It's more functional than beautiful, and for the most part has remained attached to the watch. There is a notification on the phone that makes it clear if the connection has been disconnected. This is helpful if the bluetooth fails in rare cases. The GTR 2e doesn't have WiFi, the biggest spec difference from the GTR 2, but I didn't notice the lack.

Amazfit GTR 2e (below) and Amazfit GTR 2 (above) Andy Boxall / Digital Trends

The GTR 2e is a relatively simple smartwatch as it doesn't use apps. Hence, I didn't miss the WiFi which usually allows for faster app performance. I also didn't notice the GTR 2e connection to my phone dropping regularly, so I didn't feel like the lack of WiFi was affecting general usage at all. Another feature that is missing compared to the GTR 2 is a loudspeaker so that you cannot take calls on your watch.

The GTR 2e doesn't have WiFi, the biggest spec difference from the GTR 2, but I didn't notice the lack.

When I first tried an Amazfit product, the software was one of the worst aspects. The company has continuously and significantly improved the watch's app and operating system since then. This is no longer a reason not to buy. It's great to see that the software has improved over the version installed on my GTR 2 review, including more workouts and faster activity tracking detection. It's not as fully functional or polished as Apple, Samsung, or Google operating systems, but it can be used on a daily basis. Although the software has been shown to be reliable, battery performance suggests that optimization is required.

battery

Amazfit states that the GTR 2e's battery is typically used for 24 days. This is 10 days more than expected from the GTR 2. However, this goal was not achieved or even came close in my reporting period. Without the automatic heart rate tracking required for features like Personal Activity Intelligence (PAI) measurement, a single daily non-GPS exercise and sleep tracking depleted the battery about 10% per day.

Andy Boxall / Digital Trends

Turn on heart rate tracking with the one-minute interval recommended by the PAI app and the constantly active time display. The battery had dropped to 20% on the sixth day and had to be recharged on the seventh day. This was a major disappointment as even with these active, performance hungry features, it still misses Amazfit's goal of heavy use for 12 days. The battery should be one of the main advantages of the GTR 2e, but instead it's its biggest disappointment.

Fitness tracking and other functions

Health Amazing instead of Smartwatch functions is the specialty of the Amazfit GTR 2e. There is a huge list of 90+ activities that can be tracked on the GTR 2e. All activities can be called up via the lower button on the housing or via the menu. The displayed list can be edited so that your favorite workouts are immediately available. The data is clearly displayed on the watch. Starting and stopping the workout is easy. There's GPS for running and biking, as well as a heart rate monitor for detailed tracking and data.

Andy Boxall / Digital Trends

Keeping track of indoor activities is quick and easy, and provides the usual information like calories, elapsed time, heart rate, and handy stats like the heart rate zone when you're on a stationary bike. Swimming does have some extra stroke data but doesn't have specific stats like SWOLF, while the GPS signal is captured in around 20 seconds when you are outside.

With the GTR 2e you can get a comprehensive picture of your health.

In addition to the heart rate sensor, the GTR 2e has a blood oxygen sensor (Sp02) and can also measure stress. None of these are medical grade, so the results are best treated as reference, although the Sp02 data can be of benefit in tracking sleep. I've found the results to be the same as the Apple Watch. The Amazfit GTR 2e also has a built-in temperature sensor that the more expensive GTR 2 does not have. It measures the skin temperature when worn or the ambient temperature when it is not and also serves as a reference.

amazfit gtr 2e smartwatch review zepp app training "class =" m-carousel - image dt-lazy-no "src =" https://icdn9.digitaltrends.com/image/digitaltrends/amazfit-zepp-app-workout-640x640. jpg "srcset =" https://www.digitaltrends.com/data:image/gif;base64,https://www.digitaltrends.com/R0lGODlhAQABAIAAAAAAAP///yH5BAEAAAAALAAAAAABAAEAAAIBRAA7The Zepp app from Amazfit shows training data Andy Boxall / Digital Trends

amazfit gtr 2e smartwatch review zepp app watch "class =" m-carousel - image dt-lazy-no "src =" https://icdn1.digitaltrends.com/image/digitaltrends/amazfit-zepp-app-watch-640x640. jpg "srcset =" https://www.digitaltrends.com/data:image/gif;base64,https://www.digitaltrends.com/R0lGODlhAQABAIAAAAAAAP///yH5BAEAAAAALAAAAAABAAEAAAIBRAA7Amazfit Zepp app with watch data and settings Andy Boxall / Digital Trends

amazfit gtr 2e smartwatch review zepp app steps "class =" m-carousel - image dt-lazy-no "src =" https://icdn2.digitaltrends.com/image/digitaltrends/amazfit-zepp-app-steps-640x640. jpg "srcset =" https://www.digitaltrends.com/data:image/gif;base64,https://www.digitaltrends.com/R0lGODlhAQABAIAAAAAAAP///yH5BAEAAAAALAAAAAABAAEAAAIBRAA7Amazfit's Zepp app displays step count data Andy Boxall / Digital Trends

amazfit gtr 2e smartwatch review zepp app sleep "class =" m-carousel - image dt-lazy-no "src =" https://icdn3.digitaltrends.com/image/digitaltrends/amazfit-zepp-app-sleep-640x640. jpg "srcset =" https://www.digitaltrends.com/data:image/gif;base64,https://www.digitaltrends.com/R0lGODlhAQABAIAAAAAAAP///yH5BAEAAAAALAAAAAABAAEAAAIBRAA7Amazfits Zepp app with sleep data Andy Boxall / Digital Trends

Combine all of this with Personal Activity Intelligence metrics and sleep tracking. The GTR 2e allows you to get a complete picture of your health, even if you are a relatively dedicated fitness fanatic. The package disappoints with the Zepp app, which hides your workout data and isn't particularly inspiring. The app is far less user-friendly than the wellness app from Fossil or as visually appealing as Apple Health or Google Fit. However, it can be linked to popular apps like Google Fit and Strava.

Temperature sensor of the Amazfit GTR 2e Andy Boxall / Digital Trends

For my daily, simple fitness tracking needs, the Amazfit GTR 2e has everything I need. I really appreciated the updated workout list compared to the version I used for the GTR 2 and consider the watch a step further than a simple tracker like the Galaxy Fit 2 and a better workout partner than more fashionable smartwatches like the Citizen CZ Smart.

Price and availability

The Amazfit GTR 2e is priced at $ 140, or £ 120, and is available on Amazon – at the time of writing, it's available for just $ 125. It is available in either black, gray or muted mint green.

Our opinion

You pay less for the GTR 2e than you do for the GTR 2, and while there are some style and design differences between them, they're barely noticeable. Removing Wi-Fi won't affect battery life, which is nowhere near as good as advertised, but all fitness and health metrics are the same.

I have already recommended the Amazfit GTR 2 and not only recommend the GTR 2e to anyone who wants a fitness-oriented smartwatch without spending too much on one. It really is a better buy compared to the GTR 2. They are neither design-oriented nor do they have significant material advantages, so why not just buy the cheaper one?

Is there a better alternative?

The Amazfit GTR 2e is much cheaper than our usual smartwatch recommendations. If cost is not an issue, the Apple Watch is the smartwatch you can buy if you own an iPhone, or for Android phone owners we recommend either the Mobvoi Ticwatch Pro 3 or the Samsung Galaxy Watch 3. All of these are but at least all twice as expensive as the Amazfit GTR 2e.

They're also true smartwatches, meaning they run apps and offer better smartphone integration. If you're more interested in fitness tracking than the smartwatch aspects of it, consider a model from Fitbit. The $ 230 Fitbit Versa 3 has a watch-like design and features, as does a $ 120 Fitbit Charge 4 with just a traditional fitness band design.

What about the Amazfit GTR 2? It costs a little more than the GTR 2e, but does not offer any additional, indispensable functions and the construction and material advantages are minimal. When you look at a smartwatch like the Amazfit GTR 2 and GTR 2e, budget probably plays a huge role. So you can save as much as possible and make the GTR 2e for sale.

How long it will take?

The watch strap, metal case, and glass shade should be durable if you handle it normally. It also has a water resistance of 50 meters so you can swim with it. If the Zepp app is still supported by Amazfit, it will technically last two or more years. The design is relatively generic, however, and you may get tired of what it looks like before the watch or software is out of date.

There are also enough fitness features to keep both casual and more dedicated fitness fans happy with the watch. Even if your habits or interests change, the versatility of the Amazfit GTR 2e means you won't have to suddenly upgrade if you decide to go surfing or long distance running.

Should you buy it?

Yes. The battery life may not be as impressive as the specs stated, but it is decent and will hopefully be improved with a software update soon. Apart from that, the Amazfit GTR 2e is a reliable, inexpensive, fitness-oriented smartwatch.

Editor's recommendations




21 Feb
Blog

Roborock S7 Review: Finishing Up the Cleaning at Sonic Speed

Roborock S7 Review side view

Roborock S7 robot vacuum test: wipe up at the speed of sound

"The ability to vibrate at up to 3,000 times per minute means superficial stains disappear faster."

  • Smart navigation makes it efficient

  • Quiet operation

  • Sonic mopping requires fewer passes to mop

  • Goes over partitions / humps with ease

  • On the expensive side

  • The rubber brush can still get tangled

Roborock has had an incredible ride over the past few years. The company, which was once an unknown player in the field of robot vacuum, competes against some of the heavyweights like iRobot, Shark and Ecovacs, thanks in part to its diverse and powerful models.

The latest model, the Roborock S7, has the same basic ingredients that made its previous bots such a success, such as a combination of vacuum and mop, but its differentiator over the competition is its sonic vibration technology with wiping. Bad spots could soon be a thing of the past if this new implementation actually works.

A well-known bot that cleans efficiently

The Roborock S7 is not that different from its siblings. There are a few subtle changes such as: B. fading in and out "breathing" LED lights, a more compact water container and above all a new solid rubber brush. Aesthetically, it doesn't differ from previous designs we've seen from Roborocks Bots. The same characteristic features are present here, such as the protruding lidar sensor array, the rubberized side sweeping brush and the all-plastic construction.

Roborock S7 Review top viewJohn Velasco / Digital Trends

In terms of cleaning, the Roborock S7 cleans efficiently thanks to its lidar-based navigation. It accurately maps rooms and does a good job of avoiding most obstacles. The occasional cord on the floor can trip it, but it can navigate challenging spaces by trying to clean in straight lines. The sweeping brush on the side guides dirt well to the solid rubber brush on the underside. However, after a few cleaning sessions, I found that the hair was curled up and tangled in the center of the brush.

Still, he manages to vacuum up some of the annoying pieces of trash in my apartment. Carpets are treated decently as with their 2500 Pa suction they pick up most of the superficial things but not nearly pick up the hard, embedded parts my cordless vacuum cleaner can collect.

Is Sonic Mopping Technology Legitimate?

The marquee of the Roborock S7 is its new sonic mopping technology. All of Roborock's previous vacuum cleaners use the pulling method. Honestly, I'm happy with it, but it doesn't necessarily disinfect surfaces – something very few bots can do.

Fewer passes are required to remove stains from solid surfaces.

The S7's sonic mopping technology has a new brush attachment and microfiber mopping pad with a better feel. What happens here is that the mopping pad vibrates at a speed of up to 3,000 times per minute. It's different, yet effective, in that it requires fewer passes to remove stains from solid surfaces – like tiny drops of dried coffee on tiles. Now the hard, deep stains aren't removed, like the streaks that sneakers can leave on tile and that a good old mop with enough pressure and scrubbing can achieve. But hey, at least it wipes floors as efficiently as vacuum cleaners. Time is money so I'm impressed with how quickly the job gets done, although I would still love to find a way to sanitize surfaces.

Roborock S7 Review bottom view

Even better, the S7 pulls back the mopping pad as it passes over bumps, partitions, and carpet, and then brings it back down to apply the pressure it needs to sonic wipe. Other 2-in-1 combinations require you to remove the mopping pad so that they can vacuum carpets.

You can hardly hear it being cleaned

With two people working from home and having conference calls all day long, I'm very impressed with how quietly the Roborock S7 cleans. It's loudest when it comes to carpets, but it's almost unnoticeable as it cleans wood floors and tiles. There is a slight hum when it is swept, but it's quiet enough to be drowned out with some background music.

Roborock S7 Review LidarJohn Velasco / Digital Trends

In addition, the Roborock S7 is a competent robotic vacuum cleaner as it is equipped with all the modern conveniences that I long for. This includes the support of voice assistants such as Google Assistant and Amazon Alexa, the ability to set up virtual boundaries / restricted areas and to clean certain rooms. All of this makes the Roborock S7 a well-rounded bot that can clean quietly and effectively while you are at home.

Our opinion

There is nothing that the Roborock S7 cannot handle. It cleans well, doesn't waste time, and its new wiping system is a small but effective step forward. It's not a game changer in the world of wiping, but changing it just makes it more efficient.

The only disadvantage of this otherwise pinpoint robot vacuum is its price. At $ 649, it is almost at the top of the Roborock product range – only surpassed by the camera-dead Roborock S6 MaxV. It's a tough sale as I prefer the added functionality of the S6 MaxV's built-in camera for intelligent obstacle avoidance and live streaming.

How long it will take?

Even with the all-plastic construction, the S7 has some serious problems. The only problem I have is the plastic part on the mop pad attachment that allows it to vibrate back and forth. It seems to be on the fragile side, especially when the pad is removed from the Velcro straps. However, there is a 1 year limited warranty.

Is there a better alternative?

Yes, the Roborock S6 MaxV mentioned above isn't too far off in terms of price – a compelling option due to the advantages of its integrated camera. It cleans just as effectively whether vacuuming or mopping.

Should you buy it?

Yes, just because some people are not yet familiar with the idea of ​​a vacuum with a camera. The Roborock S7 is essentially the S6 MaxV without a camera, but with an improved wiping system.

Editor's recommendations




20 Feb
Blog

Wyze Robot Vacuum Review: Efficiency Without the Pricey Cost

Wyze Robot Vacuum

"The Wyze Robot Vacuum offers efficient cleaning at an affordable price."

  • Efficient cleaning

  • Smart mapping and navigation

  • Easy to set up and use

  • Can set up virtual walls

  • There is no intelligent integration of assistants

  • Often catches cables

Wyze is known for affordable products that meet the same quality standards as much more expensive options. The company's security cameras compete against bigger names without breaking the bank, and the new Wyze Robot Vacuum is no exception. The Wyze Robot Vacuum may not have as many features as the iRobot Roomba i3 +, but it does offer efficient cleaning at an affordable price.

The Wyze Robot Vacuum is just the latest in a number of new additions to the robot vacuum market. The space has become increasingly competitive, especially in the lower section. Companies like iRobot and Roborock dominate the high-end market, but the mid and budget markets are flooded with third party companies and cheaper options from big companies. Even so, Wyze has a reputation for quality at a low price, and that reputation (combined with the functionality of this vacuum) sets it apart in a sea of ​​different vacuum cleaners.

Set up

For just $ 250, it packs a lot of features into the box. It comes with two spare brushes, the charging stand, an instruction manual and a quick start guide. Setup is just as easy. Just plug in the charging stand and leave at least 1.5 feet on either side of the vacuum and at least 4.5 feet in front of it. There is also a brush cleaner and small knife in the top cover of the vacuum cleaner itself that is used to cut the string around the main brush.

It needs to be charged for about two hours before running. Once it is fully charged, download the app and follow the on-screen instructions. From this point on, it should take less than five minutes for the vacuum to operate. The included quick start guide describes these steps in an incredibly easy to understand way. Once it is set up, you can start cleaning your floor.

A good choice for a first robotic vacuum

The Wyze Robot Vacuum is a bit barebones in terms of features, but that's not necessarily a bad thing. The Wyze robot vacuum cleaner is straightforward and simple to operate, making it an excellent choice for the first robot vacuum cleaner.

There are three separate cleaning modes, which are defined by the suction level: Quiet, Standard and Strong. Calm is self-explanatory; It's quieter than any other mode, but it also has the lowest suction power. This mode is ideal for hardwood or linoleum surfaces, but doesn't work as well on carpets. Standard is louder than Quiet mode but has more suction power, while Strong is the loudest of the three. Strong is also the most efficient and results in the deepest and most thorough cleaning of all modes. It took longer than the other modes, but the difference was visible – the carpet looked and felt cleaner.

Few robotic vacuums at this price point have lidar capabilities.

Cleaning is only done via the app. You can schedule them to be cleaned up automatically or instruct them to start a run manually. Voice control is not yet available for the Wyze Robot Vacuum. Alexa compatibility is expected to be available in the first half of 2021, however, along with other features like spot cleaning.

There are some drawbacks, however. While the vacuum did a great job of the actual cleaning, it picked up and carried cables that were inferior to any other vacuum I've ever worked with. This is not an isolated incident, but the Wyze Robot Vacuum captured everything it came across. I had to stop it and salvage four different cables – three power cables and one ethernet cable – before it ended a run. It also ran into the leg of the couch and got stuck due to interference with the lidar signal, the laser signal used to map the area.

Smart navigation and mapping

The Wyze Robot Vacuum navigates through a room using lidar technology and creates an intelligent map in the process. You can view this map on your phone to know exactly where the vacuum is at any given moment. You can also use it to create virtual walls or divide the map into different zones. This is important as few robotic vacuums offer lidar at this price.

At the bottom right of the card there is a small icon in the form of a box. If you tap on it, you can edit the map. You can create a virtual wall to close off certain areas. For example, if you want the Wyze Robot Vacuum to clean your bedroom but not the attached bathroom, create a virtual wall on the bathroom door. You can also divide the map into different rooms, even within the same room. An example of this would be a large living room that is divided into a den and a dining area. You can turn the den into one room, the dining area into a second.

Once the rooms are divided up, you can tap on any of them to tell the Wyze to only clean that particular room. If there are multiple rooms on the card, you can choose as many as you want to clean at once. If you don't select a room and just tap Clean, the entire room will be vacuumed.

A notable feature of the Wyze is the accuracy of its navigation. If it is picked up and moved, it learns its new location and its repositioning within the smart map in just a few seconds. It also stops just before most obstacles. During a test run, the vacuum was once applied directly to the side wall of a PC that was on the floor. The vacuum stopped within an eighth of an inch of the disk, turned, and continued on its way. It used its lidar reading instead of the shock sensor, although it does use the shock sensors when navigating along walls. It can also vacuum close to the edge of a staircase without falling over. Sensors at the bottom of the vacuum guarantee that it does not move over the edge.

Use and accessory tracking

In addition to the settings, the settings menu of the Wyze Robot Vacuum offers a wealth of valuable information. In this menu you can set up specific cleaning schedules, change the suction power and turn notifications on and off. You can also access clean records to measure when the last run was, how long it took, and how much space was covered. The map editor can also be accessed from this menu.

The standout option, however, is the Accessories menu. This lists the main brush, edge brush, and HEPA filter, and the time remaining for each of these parts before they need to be replaced. If you replace it, you can update the time by tapping the accessory and selecting "I replaced it". You also have the option to purchase another part. The main brush is designed for 300 operating hours, the edge brush for 200 operating hours and the HEPA filter for 150 operating hours.

In addition to the basic Wyze Robot Vacuum settings, you can set up rules that allow interaction with other Wyze devices, shortcuts that perform actions on the home screen, and schedules that set controls at certain times of the day.

Our opinion

Wyze Robot VacuumWyze / Youtube

The Wyze Robot Vacuum is by no means a bad investment. While it lacks some of the bells and whistles other robotic vacuums have, it does a good job of cleaning a room, provided you have the right vacuum level selected – a few runs over carpet in quiet mode left dirt on the floor. The mapping and navigation is on par with much more expensive models, however, and once more features are added that allow it to interact with intelligent assistants and perform spot cleaning, it will be quite a competitor.

Is there a better alternative?

At $ 250, there are few robotic vacuums that can match. If you put in just $ 50 more you could get one iRobot Roomba e5, a robotic vacuum cleaner that is great for picking up pet hair and has all of the advanced features of iRobot.

In the premium range, the iRobot Roomba s9 Plus offers enormous cleaning functions and a range of functions that you will not find anywhere else. That comes with a premium price of around $ 1,100, of course. There's no doubt that iRobot is the king of the hill, but you don't have to sell an arm or leg to pick up a robotic vacuum that does excellent cleaning.

If even $ 250 is too much, there are budget options like the Eufy Robovac 11S, which costs $ 30 less at $ 220. It lacks the efficiency of better vacuums, but it cleans your floor so you don't have to.

How long it will take?

The Wyze Robot Vacuum is designed for a long service life and depends solely on the estimated service life of the accessories. However, the vacuum can operate anywhere from 32 to 104 degrees Fahrenheit (although lower or higher temperatures in a house create a number of other problems). With proper care and maintenance, the Wyze Robot Vacuum will last for years to come. There is a one year limited warranty that protects it from defects.

Should I buy it?

Short answer: yes, if you are looking for a budget friendly robotic vacuum cleaner. At this price, only a few robotic vacuums have lidar functions. Although the Wyze Robot Vacuum does not yet offer voice control or spot cleaning, these functions are in preparation. It cleans your floor quickly and efficiently and will only get better over time.

Editor's recommendations




18 Feb
Blog

MSI GS66 Stealth (2021) Review: 1440p Performance, Tested

msi gs66 stealth 1440p review 09

MSI GS66 Stealth (2021) Review: Peak 1440p Gaming

"The MSI GS66 Stealth brings faster, sharper 1440p gaming to laptops."

  • Incredible gaming performance

  • 1440p 240Hz gaming is an achievement

  • Solid design and build quality

  • Good choice of ports

  • Solid battery life

  • Runs hot

  • Dull keyboard and touchpad

Switching from 1080p to 1440p is not an easy task. Playing games at higher resolutions without sacrificing frame rates requires a massive increase in graphical performance. This is exactly what the new mobile Nvidia RTX 3080 GPU is designed for.

The MSI GS66 Stealth is one of the first gaming laptops to support not only these new graphics, but also a 1440p 240Hz display. Lightning fast updates and high resolutions? Sign me up.

This is a sneak peek as the updated GS66 Stealth has not yet been launched in North America. But even without a confirmed price, my time with the updated GS66 Stealth got me excited for the potential of 1440p gaming laptops.

display

Internally, the display is the biggest change to the MSI GS66 Stealth this year. There is now the option for an IPS screen with a resolution of 2560 x 1440, measured diagonally at 15.6 inches. While 1440p screens are still a rarity on laptops, this is even more true of gaming laptops. The main reason, of course, is that the older GPUs were never capable of moving as many pixels around at frame rates fast enough to please gamers. A refresh rate above 60 Hz would never have made sense.

The MSI GS66 Stealth handles 1440p excellently in most games. 240 Hz is a bit over the top, but much more versatile than the 300 Hz 1080p models.

Since this is a new panel, I also wanted to test the image quality and make sure MSI wasn't cutting corners. There have been some surprises to say the least.

The color saturation is the real shock. With 100% sRGB and 98% AdobeRGB, this panel is significantly more colorful than your average 1080p gaming screen. Without the poor color accuracy, this would be a good photo and video editing machine. However, with a Delta E of 6.67, it is better calibrated for bold and bright colors in games than for precise color corrections.

I wish it was a little brighter which would help with the contrast as well. With 291 nits of brightness and a contrast ratio of 870: 1, it is a bit behind competitors like the Razer Blade.

Game performance

A faster screen is great, but without components to use it, it's useless. The GS66 Stealth has the Intel Core i7-10875H processor and the Nvidia RTX 3080 as well as 32 GB RAM and a 512 GB SSD. How does this deal with the promise of 1440p games? Let's just say there wasn't a title in our series of test games that I preferred to play in 1080p.

I saw some great results testing the game in the 3DMark Time Spy benchmark. The system achieved 9,907 points, which is a solid 18% ahead of the previous year's model with the RTX 2080 Super. This goes far beyond a normal increase in performance compared to the previous year. It was also only 8% behind the desktop version of the RTX 2070 Super that I tested in 2020. This is because the mobile RTX 3080 is technically the same GPU as the desktop RTX 3070.

At 1440p, it even beats the desktop RTX 2070 Super in some games.

I tested the game Battlefield V Next up, the GS66 Stealth impressed again, especially at higher resolutions. In this game, last year's model has already surpassed the Razer Blade. Now an average of 94 frames per second (fps) is displayed with 1440p Ultra settings or 126 fps with Medium. At 1440p, it even outperforms the desktop RTX 2070 Super – and keep in mind that this is a 215-watt desktop graphics card that costs $ 500 alone. This comparison did not apply to all games, especially CPU-bound games like Civilization VI. But Battlefield V was a notable high point for the GS66 Stealth.

The advantage in Fortnite wasn't that big, at least not compared to the desktop RTX 2070 Super. But take that comparison out of the equation for a moment and enjoy the glory of 1440p games at well over 60 fps. The MSI GS66 Stealth achieved an average of 81 fps in Epic settings and 115 fps in high with 100% 3D rendering. If you lower the resolution to 1080p, you get an additional 30 to 60 fps. Regardless, you never have to settle for less than 60 fps.

That was true of all of the games I tested, with the exception of Assassin's Creed Valhalla. With the in-game benchmark, Valhalla reached a top speed of 55 fps in Epic 1440p. The gameplay still looked smooth, but it barely fell below the 60 fps threshold. But in a game more known for immersive worlds and storytelling, I still preferred to prefer the sharper experience of playing in 1440p.

During long gaming sessions, surface temperatures remain manageable, resulting in a more comfortable gaming experience than on laptops like the Razer Blade. In contrast to this laptop, the MSI GS66 Stealth keeps the palm rests and keyboard cool even under less load. On the other hand, like the Zephyrus G14, the MSI GS66 Stealth always runs with a slight hum.

Ray tracing performance

Much has been said about the ray tracing capabilities of this new RTX 3080 graphic, but the performance loss is still too high in the two games I tried. Fortnite has a number of robust ray tracing features, including global lighting and shadows, each with different levels of detail. Unfortunately, despite the low setting, the game struggled to get smooth frame rates.

Heavy ray tracing effects aren't ready for prime time on gaming laptops just yet.

Of course, I also tried ray tracing along with DLSS, Nvidia's upscaling feature, to improve frame rates. DLSS helps a lot, even though I couldn't achieve the average frame rate over 60 fps even in performance mode. That was tested at 1080p Epic settings. In 1440p the situation is even worse.

I also wanted to try some ray tracing that was a little more subtle. Battlefield V was one of the first games to announce support for ray tracing and DLSS, and the effect isn't nearly as pronounced as it is in Fortnite. The MSI GS66 Stealth did a bit better here, but reaching 60 fps at 1080p Ultra was still unattainable without resorting to lower graphics settings. Story-driven or exploration games like Cyberpunk 2077 or Minecraft are slightly better suited for this performance compromise, but even there, strong ray-traced effects on gaming laptops aren't ready for prime time.

Creative achievement

The MSI GS66 Stealth uses a thoroughly boring, but satisfactory 10th generation Intel processor. The Core i7-10870H has eight cores and 16 threads with a boost clock rate of 5.0 GHz. Of course, the chip usually runs closer to its base clock of 2.2 GHz, except for burst workloads. As a gaming processor, it's more than capable and happy to leave the heavy lifting to Nvidia. However, this is a slightly slower processor than the Core i7-10875H used in the previous GS66 Stealth I tested in 2020.

Despite the high clock rates, the system doesn't look good in single-core benchmarks. In Cinebench R23, almost all 25-watt Tiger Lake processors beat the GS66 Stealth and show how inefficient the old 14 nm processors from Intel are in comparison. This discrepancy was even shown in PCMark 10's Essentials test, which rates simple tasks such as surfing the Internet, video conferencing and word processing. Even these smaller and more efficient laptops – like the Razer Book 13 or the HP Specter x360 14 – outperform it.

The GS66 Stealth makes up for it in multi-core tests, scoring 6,133 in Cinebench R23 and 6,140 in Geekbench 5. You can thank the eight cores for that. The additional cores also mean this laptop does well on multithreaded tasks like content creation. The CPU-only video encoding performance in Handbrake is good, but does not get any advantage over previous iterations of the laptop. Laptops like the Dell XPS 17 or Ryzen-based system are even faster in this test.

If you really want to edit or stream video on the MSI GS66 Stealth, the performance of the RTX 3080 can save the day. The 7,949 points are a great score on the PCMark 10 Creation test, a big step up from what was possible with older gaming laptops.

Like many of its competitors, the GS66 Stealth is running hot.

Like many of its competitors, the GS66 Stealth is running hot. It's not uncommon for 97 degrees Celsius to be reached on cranking, resulting in an inevitable thermal throttling. If you want to avoid this problem, consider opting for a bulkier chassis with better airflow.

Fortunately, this isn't a huge problem in most games as the processor shares more of the available power with the GPU.

design

The MSI GS66 Stealth was an early adopter of the thin-and-light gaming laptop trend. When the design first hit the market, the 4.6 pound weight and 0.71 inch thickness were revolutionary. In 2021, it's a little more common. The Razer Blade is a bit lighter, as is the Asus ROG Zephyrus G15. There are now new ultra-thin gaming laptops such as the Asus ROG Zephyrus G14 or the Acer Predator Triton 300 SE, which are the maximum for the RTX 3060.

The look of the laptop itself doesn't attract too much attention. It's a black aluminum plate with very few flourishes. Even the dragon logo on the lid is only visible when light is reflected from it.

However, MSI has cut a few more vents in the case than in the Razer Blade. There are some on either side of the laptop as well as on the top. That makes for a slightly less elegant appearance, although it certainly helps to keep temperatures lower.

The touchpad and keyboard are some of my least favorite aspects of the laptop. In an attempt to maximize the size of the touchpad, MSI made it significantly wider than normal. I would normally welcome this attempt. But, like in the past, it is unsettling when most of your palms are resting on the touchpad. I have encountered the problem of accidental touchpad clicks more than once.

The keyboard has some usability problems for me too. The layout is abnormal and changes the default positioning of the Fn, Ctrl, Atl, and Windows keys. Fiddling with the keyboard is never fun, and I've done that quite a bit here.

The buttons themselves are fine, but the action is a bit sloppy. The keystrokes lack the precise speed that many modern keyboards have assumed, although this style is still common on gaming laptops.

As for the ports, the MSI GS66 Stealth throws in the sink. These include HDMI 2.0, USB-C 3.2 Gen 2 (Thunderbolt 4), USB-C 3.2 Gen 2 and three USB-A 3.2 Gen 2 ports. The Thunderbolt 4 port can be used for both display input and charging. However, while you're playing, you'll want to take advantage of the full power of the old-school keg plug. The laptop even manages to push in an RJ45 Ethernet socket.

Unfortunately, the bandwidth of HDMI 2.0 is limited to 144 Hz at 1440p. So if you are planning on docking with a gaming monitor, this is something to consider. Currently there are very few monitors and laptops that support HDMI 2.1, which increases this bandwidth significantly.

Battery life

I never go into a gaming laptop review with high expectations for battery life. However, the MSI GS66 Stealth always had the best battery life of any gaming laptop I have ever tested. The introduction of a higher resolution screen made me fear that he might lose that crown.

Instead, the opposite happened. This year's model improved battery life in both tests, despite having the same 99 watt hour battery. With local video playback, the system lasted just under eight hours, which is almost an hour and a half longer than the previous model. That also beats the Razer Blade by half an hour.

For a more realistic workflow, I used a macro to automate light web browsing. In this test, the GS66 Stealth stayed alive for seven hours and 12 minutes, once again overtaking both last year's model and the Razer Blade. That easily makes it the 15-inch gaming laptop with the best battery life.

Laptops without powerful discrete graphics cards naturally have a much better battery life. However, I'm encouraged these high refresh rate 1440p screens don't take an even bigger toll.

Our opinion

There is no doubt that 1440p is the future of laptop gaming. More than ray tracing, higher fidelity makes every game you play look sharper, smoother, and more immersive. The MSI GS66 Stealth is finally a gaming laptop that can run at 1440p at reasonable frame rates. It might not be my favorite gaming laptop design, but the combination of a super fast, high resolution screen and great gaming performance makes it one of the best gaming laptops you can buy.

The price remains the last important piece of information in evaluating this laptop. I will update this review once pricing is confirmed.

Are there alternatives?

Few gaming laptops have announced 1440p models, and only the Razer Blade 15 matches the MSI in refresh rate. The right configuration of the Razer Blade costs $ 2,900. So, you can expect the MSI model to be just a few hundred dollars below if it follows historical pricing patterns.

The Asus ROG Zephyrus G15 combines its 1440p screen with a Ryzen processor and its refresh rate is limited to 165 Hz. Based on the games I tested, 165Hz is very fast when playing in 1440p. This means 1080p gaming is a little more limited, but it's likely fast enough for everyone but the most serious competitive gamers. At $ 2,500, the Zephyrus G15 may be a bit cheaper than the MSI GS66 Stealth.

How long it will take?

As with most laptops, you can expect the MSI GS66 Stealth to last four to five years. The high-end graphics card and the higher-resolution screen are future-proof, as are the Thunderbolt 4 ports. The lack of HDMI 2.1 is the only flaw in this regard.

Should you buy it?

Yes. As one of the few laptops with a 1440p screen and a refresh rate of 240 Hz, it offers one of the best gaming experiences you can get with a laptop.

Editor's recommendations




17 Feb
Blog

Citizen CZ Smart Review: Nearly a Great Citizen Smartwatch

Citizen cz smart smartwatch rating wrist shirt

"The Citizen CZ Smart is a good smartwatch with solid performance and battery life, but the design isn't quite what we'd expect from such a remarkable watchmaker."

  • High quality stainless steel case

  • Comfortable strap for a good fit

  • Decent battery life

  • Surprisingly good performance

  • Inaccurate number of steps

  • Not enough "citizen" design

Citizen has been making clocks for more than 100 years, manufacturing all of its components in-house, and pioneering a wide variety of technologies that focus on the use of light output and high precision. It's the newest watch the citizen CZ Smartis the company's first touchscreen smartwatch – and based on that legacy, we should be excited about it. As a fan of the brand's watches in general, I was keen to try them out.

The more watch brands are interested in smartwatches, the better the design, convenience and technology become. So it is important for companies like Citizen to get involved. Is the Citizen CZ Smart joining Tag Heuer's Connected (2020), Montblanc's Summit 2 and Alpina's AlpinerX as another example of the traditional watch industry getting smartwatches right?

I wore it to find out.

design

The only question that really needs to be answered here is whether the CZ Smart looks and feels like a Citizen watch. Yes, but not as much as some of the brand's more well-known models, and you probably need to be familiar with the Citizen line of diving watches to see the family connection. The shape and design of the bezel are reminiscent of the Promaster Diver range, as are the guards around the crown. However, to most casual watchers, it looks like any other smartwatch and may even be confused with the Fossil Garrett HR.

Andy Boxall / Digital Trends

Here is the problem. I really like the style of the CZ Smart, but it's just not citizen enough and a problem that persists in the software. Citizen hasn't used its selection of incredibly recognizable watch face designs for various watch faces either, offering only a handful of more commonplace watch faces to choose from. Why is there no view of the eye-catching Skyhawk or the unusual satellite wave? Tag Heuer gets this aspect right, offering a wide range of dial designs that match the brand or are part of collections designed by ambassadors. There's really no reason Citizen couldn't have done the same.

Andy Boxall / Digital Trends

It's unfortunate that the CZ Smart is no longer bourgeois as the watch looks great on the wrist. The bezel is thin, the blue color gives it character, the 46mm case is made of stainless steel and feels of very high quality. Gorilla glass is placed over the screen for protection. The 22 m long blue silicone strap is very comfortable and should also be very durable. It does have a plastic bottom, however, which is a little unfortunate. While very similar to the Fossil Garrett HR, it looks a lot more mature and feels better built too.

Andy Boxall / Digital Trends

Citizen likely relied on partnering with Fossil to produce the CZ Smart. The couple announced some time ago that they would be working together on hybrid smartwatch technology. However, given the presence of the Fossil wellness app and the pre-installation of Spotify, this certainly seems to be a product of that partnership too. It's not a bad thing, Fossil is working on smartwatches with a lot of brands including Diesel, Micheal Kors, and Skagen. It knows what it is doing.

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The Citizen CZ Smart looks great and is very comfortable, but it doesn't quite say "I'm wearing a Citizen Smartwatch" like it should, and it feels like a missed opportunity.

Screen and performance

The CZ Smart has a 1.28-inch AMOLED screen with a resolution of 416 x 416 pixels so it's very sharp, which makes me even sadder that there aren't many great standard Citizen watch faces to take advantage of . Inside is a Qualcomm Snapdragon Wear 3100 processor, not the newer Snapdragon Wear 4100 chip, which makes it technically out of date. Unfortunately, Citizen isn't the only one who is satisfied with the aging Snapdragon 3100 chip, as almost all other smartwatch manufacturers do.

Andy Boxall / Digital Trends

Fortunately, it's not a performance disaster at all. Once you do the basics like tracking workouts, receiving notifications, and using apps, you can easily do the functions. It took a while, but the chip has been effectively optimized when it is tuned to 1GB of RAM along with the latest software and can be used perfectly every day. What it misses is the increased efficiency of the Snapdragon 4100. The Mobvoi TicWatch Pro 3's battery lasts at least three full days on a single charge, and the CZ Smart doesn't quite manage that.

Andy Boxall / Digital Trends

How does the battery compare? It's decent. With general daily use and just activity tracking with the wellness app, I got almost three work days by turning the clock off overnight. If you're following with Google Fit, streaming music, or using intense apps like Google Maps, it's just two business days. The watch charges quickly, with 80% charging in about 45 minutes and 100% charging in about 70 minutes.

While the CZ Smart isn't great, it has the power and battery life to do what I want a smartwatch to do every day.

Navigation and software

It's great to see that the CZ Smart already has the latest software update for Google Wear OS H-MR2 installed, which undoubtedly contributes to slightly better battery life and faster performance. It also introduces new features such as an adjustable time limit for the screen and a new weather tile.

Andy Boxall / Digital Trends

One of the most welcome features of the CZ Smart is the rotating crown, which makes it easy to navigate the Wear OS software. It should be a standard feature on all Wear OS smartwatches, but it isn't. Congratulations Citizen for adding it here. The guards around the crown make it less uncomfortable to turn your thumb as well. The buttons on either side of the crown activate Google Fit and the Citizen Watch Face app, but can be reconfigured.

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The CZ Smart delivers notifications from your phone with average reliability. This is what I expect from Wear OS in general, which is nowhere near as reliable in communicating with your phone as Apple's WatchOS. The CZ Smart has a speaker and microphone for making and receiving calls. This is always welcome. However, there is no 4G LTE connection so a connection to your phone is required. It's loud enough to have a conversation at home.

Fitness tracking

Fossil's wellness app is on board and promises to track basic activities – steps, sleep, calories, and exercise, without draining your battery too much. It suits the CZ Smart because I don't see it being worn by hardcore fitness fanatics, but by people who want to know how much (or how little) they are exercising. It's easy to use as everything is shown on one screen and only offers one indoor or outdoor exercise tracking option. It's quick and easy and suits my idea of ​​how the watch is worn. Google Fit is also available for anyone who wants more in-depth, data-intensive activity tracking.

Andy Boxall / Digital Trends

How is the CZ Smart when you are tracking activity? It is annoying that the software has to be optimized because the CZ Smart overestimates the number of steps many times over. After realizing that I was supposedly supposed to run a lot more than was possible when locked, I compared it to the Apple Watch Series 6. I found that the CZ Smart recorded 3,600 steps on a busy morning while the Apple Watch 2,500 steps counted.

While the heart rate monitor results have been consistent and I don't think anyone genuinely concerned about tracking fitness will look at this model, Citizen will have to fix the accuracy of the step count soon.

Price and availability

The Citizen CZ Smart costs and it is $ 395 available now from Amazon and via the Citizen online shop. There are three different models: The version shown here in blue and stainless steel, a stainless steel model with a black bracelet and a black / red bezel, and a black stainless steel version with a black metal link bracelet. All are at the same price.

Our opinion

The Citizen CZ Smart is a very good smartwatch for doing what I want every day. It's fast and the battery lasts longer than expected. It is also very well made and comfortable to wear. However, it comes to a crowded market with dozens of similar smartwatches that you can say the same about. So it's unfortunate that Citizen hasn't really used its brand name and watchmaking expertise to differentiate itself.

I wanted the CZ Smart to have the same draw as buying a Skyhawk A-T, but instead it's like buying another Wear OS smartwatch from the past few years and because of that, this is a missed opportunity. The citizen could really have taken control of the watchmaker / smartwatch area here.

Is there a better alternative?

Yes. If you want a smartwatch for your Android phone, we recommend the Mobvoi TicWatch Pro 3. It may not be the best looking watch you can buy, but it is the most technologically advanced Wear OS smartwatch right now. The Snapdragon 4100 chip goes well with Mobvoi's unusual dual-screen design to get the most out of the battery and provide plenty of performance.

If you own an iPhone and are looking for a smartwatch, the Apple Watch Series 6 or Apple Watch SE are for you. It's not often that an Apple product can be called a bargain, but when compared to the $ 395 Citizen CZ Smart, the $ 279 Apple Watch SE in particular offers great value. Relationship.

The other watch to consider is the Samsung Galaxy Watch 3. The software is easier to use and more attractive than Google's Wear operating system. The rotating bezel simplifies navigation. Due to the citizen's high price for the CZ Smart, it directly competes with all of these smartwatches, with some being offered at much lower prices.

How long it will take?

Like all good smartwatches, the Citizen CZ Smart will last at least two years before you can replace it. The Snapdragon 3100 chip is already old, however, and when at some point more models with the Snapdragon 4100 hit the market, smartwatches that use the old platform will really feel their age. However, smartwatches do not have the same power requirements as smartphones. So, if you keep doing the same things with the watch as you always have, this makes a good companion.

Due to the stainless steel housing, the gorilla glass and the water resistance of 3ATM, the CZ Smart should be very durable. The 22mm armband is thick and sturdy and can also be easily replaced due to the 22mm size and quick release pins.

Should you buy it?

Sadly no. There are better, more up-to-date smartwatches available at lower prices. The unfortunate thing here is if the CZ Smart really looked and felt like a citizen watch, the verdict might have been different.

Editor's recommendations




16 Feb
Blog

Sony XBR75Z8H 8K HDR TV review: 8K is the way

Sony Z8H 75 Inch 8K Ultra HD Smart LED TV

"The Sony Z8H offers an absolutely impressive picture quality."

  • Incredible HDR brightness

  • Deep black

  • Exact shadow details

  • Exceptional color

  • good sound

  • Some artifacts in very detailed patterns

Some may be reluctant to jump into an 8K TV due to the lack of 8K content right now and the question of whether you can even tell a difference between 8K and 4K. To investigate these concerns, we went for a 75-inch Sony Z8H 8K HDR TV, which we believe is the smallest screen you would need for an 8K TV. And as we found out, you get more than just a big picture from an 8K TV.

Sony Z8H 8K HDR TV details

While we tested the 75-inch model, our test also applies to the 85-inch model.

Screen size Model number RRP
75 in XBR75Z8H $ 4,998
85 in XBR85Z8H $ 8,999

First impressions

Sony Z8H TVRiley Young / Digital Trends

Sony Z8H TVRiley Young / Digital Trends

Sony Z8H TVRiley Young / Digital Trends

Sony Z8H TVRiley Young / Digital Trends

We immediately noticed the very sturdy feet that the Z8H is equipped with – which is good as the TV itself is quite heavy. The feet can be placed in the center of the TV or on the outer edge of the TV, although using the feet to the edge requires a very wide media stand. If you're handling such a large TV and screwing in the feet, more than one person is required. So keep that in mind.

The Z8H is a bold but attractive television made of high quality materials.

The box also contains six decorative rear cable management panels, a brushed aluminum remote control and a printed installation guide. Usually the setup guide is something we toss aside, but in the case of the ZH8, we eventually had to fish it out again. For more information on setting up the TV, check out our unboxing video.

The Z8H is a bold but attractive television made of high quality materials. Metal edges, slim bezels and sturdy feet ensure a first-class feeling. This metal edge isn't just for looks either. It acts as a tweeter to enhance sound effects and expand the soundstage so that the TV sound becomes as big as it looks.

Entrances

The back of the Z8H has four HDMI inputs, one on the side, two on the bottom, and one near the center back. The HDMI port near the back center is noteworthy as it is the only HDMI port that supports 8K at 60 Hz or 4K at 120 Hz. The connection is located next to two loudspeaker connections via which you can use the loudspeakers of the Z8H as center channels for a surround sound system.

When the Z8H is ready for operation, you must manually force a software update. The Android operating system makes you think that everything has been updated. In reality, however, the updates must be downloaded by yourself. So check the firmware updates section in the settings menu.

sound

Riley Young / Digital Trends

With a TV this big, you want sound that is just as big – and the Z8H absolutely delivers. As already mentioned, it is possible to make the television the center channel for your surround sound system. However, if you don't plan on using a surround sound connection, the Z8H still offers a premium experience – it has big, full, and rich sound through the built-in speakers and uses the frame as a tweeter so the sounds seem to come from many different locations , both inside and outside the confines of the TV.

ATSC 3.0 tuner

Another aspect that makes the Z8H a premium experience is the integrated ATSC 3.0 tuner, which is the new standard for wireless broadcasts. The promise of ATSC 3.0 is the potential for the transmission of 4K over the air. However, in our Portland, Oregon market, we found that broadcasters were simply using improved bandwidth to serve more channels with slightly better picture quality.

If we had to choose a word to describe the image quality of the Z8H it would be noticeable.

picture quality

Riley Young / Digital Trends

If we had to choose a word to describe the image quality of the Z8H it would be noticeable. The HDR highlights have an intense brightness, maintain very good black levels and reduce the blooming to a great extent. In our test with bright images on a purely black background, the backgrounds were a deep, deep black, while the bright objects remained extremely bright.

colour

Riley Young / Digital Trends

The Z8H has a brightness of 2,500 nits for HDR top lights. As we found out through our image quality tests, it creates the contrast that HDR really brings home. It also handles color space very well. The color of the Z8H is ready to use immediately and with almost no adjustments. There's always a chance colors will wash out when pushed into the higher brightness range of HDR, but the Z8H absolutely doesn't. You get a vibrancy along with a deep wealth of full color saturation.

In true Sony style, films at 24 frames per second look super smooth.

Move

Riley Young / Digital Trends

In real Sony style, films at 24 frames per second look super smooth, with almost no jerking. And while the Z8H had a tough time during some pretty intense test patterns, turning the Motion Flow to "Auto" really smooths out those tough spots. The Motion Flow option may add some “soap opera” effect to movies, but the Z8H is perfectly fine for almost all other types of content – and it makes a big difference in smoothing out time-lapse, especially in sports.

Problems with upscaling

The Z8H has some problems, however. In tests we ran, it showed a “shimmer” effect in very detailed areas on some images while they were moving. We also noticed a slight moirè effect in tight lattice patterns, for example in high-rise buildings in New York. While we can't be 100% sure, we believe this problem arises from trying to scale complex, highly detailed 4K images to 8K in real time.

Play

Riley Young / Digital Trends

Playing on the Z8H is a blast, and you can get 4K 60Hz reliably with HDR. There was a bit of a problem connecting the 8K / 4K 120 Hz HDMI port as the PlayStation 5 HDR we were using didn't want to turn on until we lowered the resolution to 1080p. We reached out to Sony to see if it could fix this issue. As promised at this point, the company has released a firmware update to address this issue. Playing high definition games on such a big screen TV and having that kind of HDR punch is not only fun, it's absolutely beautiful too.

Our opinion

You may have noticed that we had very little to say about 8K resolution, and there is a reason for that: you don't necessarily buy an 8K set just for its resolution, but to have all of the premium features you want. Premium design, premium sound, premium tuner, premium picture quality, premium gaming experience – if you want to offer the very best from Sony, you have to buy one of their 8K TVs to get it. And Sony is not alone. Other manufacturers do the same. But remember: it's the whole package; not just the resolution. Where the Z8H shines is evident in its premium performance at every turn. Sure, you have to buy an 8K TV to get it, but the Z8H is a wonderful TV and well worth the price for those who value premium performance.

Is there a better alternative?

We wouldn't say there is a better alternative, only alternatives. Since the Z8H is one of the best LED / LCD TVs you can buy, this is your must-see Samsung Q900TS than a competitor who is around $ 500 cheaper at the moment.

How long it will take?

Due to its 8K resolution, premium processing and the ATSC 3.0 tuner, the Z8H is designed to maintain its premium performance in the future.

warranty

Sony offers a one-year limited warranty on the Z8H. The full guarantee can be found here.

Should you buy it?

Yes. If you have the means, the Z8H is a remarkable TV with outstanding performance – and it happens to be an 8K model. We wouldn't necessarily buy this TV for its resolution, but certainly for its top-notch performance.

Editor's recommendations




14 Feb
Blog

Super Mario 3D World + Bowser’s Fury review: Nearly Purrfect

Super Mario 3D World + Bowser's Rage

Super Mario 3D World + Bowser's Rage

"Super Mario 3D World + Bowser's Fury is a must-have Switch bundle that includes two wonderfully creative Mario games for the price of one."

  • Living levels

  • Creative power-ups

  • Bowser's anger rocks

  • Tons of content

Super Mario 3D World + Bowser's anger is brimming with joy. From its bright colors to its adorable cats, it's the perfect game to end Mario's big 35th anniversary bash.

Super Mario 3D World was originally released on Wii U in 2013 and was something of a return to the form of the series after more experimental main Mario outings like Super Mario Sunshine and Super Mario Galaxy. With its Nintendo Switch re-release, the standout platformer now has the opportunity to delight a wider audience of Switch owners. Nintendo even brought a plus to the party and packed in an extra adventure called Bowser's Anger.

As a complete package, Super Mario 3D World + Bowser's Anger is a must have for Nintendo Switch owners. The original Wii U platformer is still more vibrant and engaging than ever. The new Bowser rage mode iterates some of the franchise's latest ideas to create a memorable adventure in itself.

Almost purrrrrfect

Those who have never experienced Super Mario 3D World on Wii U will love it. The game is a traditional 3D Mario title that mostly focuses on clever level design and power ups. Nintendo has literally reduced level design to a science, and the 12 worlds present in this gameplay are like a developer flex. Each stage is full of creative vibes, from a Super Mario Kart-style speed glove to an underground level that mainly takes place in silhouettes.

The bright music, the vivid colors and the general tone together form a game that is just so happy without pretending to be entertaining.

The most immediate feature is the cat suit, which turns Mario and his friends into full-fledged cats that can crawl up walls. It's not just a cute gimmick. The cat suit is one of the best power-ups in the franchise. This is both an ingenious design consideration that allows for more verticality in the planes and a user-friendly tool that makes the platform more forgiving. It's so satisfying to be able to save a botched jump by clinging to the side of a cage and clawing your way back up.

But Super Mario 3D World is so much more than just the cat suit. Other items like a cherry that Mario can clone or a giant ice skate shine just as brightly. The overworld is full of secrets and mini-games, so it's fun to explore the map between stages. There's even the Captain Toad levels set by Diorama, which were so delightful that they spawned their own game. Every element is so lovingly processed and nothing feels like superfluous filler.

Super Mario 3D World + Bowser's Rage

It never feels dated, despite its eight years old, but that doesn't mean it's perfect. The movement feels clumsy and slow compared to other 3D Mario games. While Super Mario Odyssey allows players to piece various jumps together into a surprisingly complex movement, 3D World feels much more limited. Every time I did a back flip it was a fluke. The game also features some excruciatingly slow auto-scrolling levels that can kill the pace. Most of my deaths were due to impatiently running too far ahead when the screen moved at a snail's pace behind me.

Despite these flaws, it's hard not to get really enchanted by Super Mario 3D World. The bright music, the vivid colors and the general tone together form a game that is just so happy without pretending to be entertaining. It's a more successful Mario party than the Mario party.

Fast and furry

For those who have played Super Mario 3D World before, Bowser's Anger is the star of the bundle. The completely new mini-adventure goes far beyond what you would expect from such a package. While Nintendo has discontinued memorable side games with new releases like Mario & Luigi: Superstar Saga, Bowser's Anger is so entertaining on its own that its confusing gamers won't have the option of purchasing them as a standalone download.

The premise is simple and fun. Bowser grew into Godzilla for some reason, and Bowser Jr. must team up with Mario to bring his father back to size. Mario has to travel around a number of islands and collect enough cat luster to transform himself into a cat kaiju. Sometimes you forget how fun Nintendo can be.

The game remixes the moves and assets of Super Mario 3D World, Super Mario Odyssey's open-ended approach to levels, and Super Mario Sunshine's Good Time Beach vibes to create a modern collection of Mario's biggest hits.

The islands are littered with platform challenges and goals that interweave seamlessly with one another. Imagine if Nintendo took a whole world from Super Mario 3D World and connected all these different zones together on one wide-open map. As with Super Mario Odyssey, the result is a relaxing, free-roaming vacation full of rewards and secrets.

(pullwuote) The completely new mini-adventure goes far beyond what you would expect from such a package. (/ pullquote)

The main event is of course Bowser. The oversized Koopa occasionally rises out of the water and rules Mario. This created for some tense moments where I slowly moved through a tricky section of platform only to be forced to rush through the end before Bowser messed everything up. Some may find the randomness a bit annoying after a while, but it does pose a challenge to the game as players never know when they will get stuck in a firestorm.

If Mario has enough shine, he can enter into an oversized boss fight. Given how powerless players are when Bowser emerges from the sea, it is a real treat to suddenly turn the tables and strike back as he towers over the tiny islands. The encounters themselves are a bit easy (Mario loves to grind pound bellies) and the camera often doesn't know how to deal with having two Titans on screen at the same time, but the clashes are as goofy and entertaining as a Saturday morning cartoon .

Bang for your money

Most impressive is how much players get with this package. Super Mario 3D World was already a loaded game with eight worlds and four challenging bonus worlds. Diehards can spend up to 40 hours mastering each level, collecting every stamp, and chasing every last star. Throw in Bowser's Rage, which includes 100 collectible shines and the full package includes 50 hours of single player fun.

Each little piece takes an already great Mario game and packs it into an indispensable package.

This doesn't even take multiplayer into account. Super Mario 3D World supports up to four players, creating a chaotic 3D platform that friends can laugh at. Bowser's Anger also includes a multiplayer component with one player controlling Bowser Jr., but it's more of a sidekick mode designed to keep kids occupied while mom or dad play.

The package even includes a new photo mode, which is a welcome touch. All postage stamps that players collect during the game can be used in snapshots. So there is a little incentive to hunt them down.

Super Mario 3D World + Bowser's Rage

Each little piece takes an already great Mario game and packs it into an indispensable package. Re-releases are seldom important to players who owned the original (see Super Mario 3D All-Stars with His Bare Bones of Three Mario Staples), but Super Mario 3D World + Bowser's Fury breaks the mold by offering two adorable, content- loaded games for the price of one.

Our opinion

Super Mario 3D World + Bowser's Rage is one of the best Nintendo Switch packages money can buy. The Wii U classic hasn't aged a day and remains an adorable playground that holds some of the franchise's most creative ideas. The new Bowser & # 39; s Fury mode is a great stand-alone adventure that plays like a short but cute sequel to Super Mario Odyssey. It's a happy duo of games that celebrate Mario's past, present and future at the same time.

Is there a better alternative?

Super Mario Odyssey is still the best Mario game available on Switch, but this pack isn't far behind.

How long it will take?

Super Mario 3D World takes about 10 hours, and Bowser's Rage can be completed in about three hours. However, if you get 100% completion between the two games, it will take up to approximately 50 hours to play.

Should I buy it?

Yes. Even if you've owned Super Mario 3D World on Wii U, the re-release is a must-have single and multiplayer game that sits right alongside The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild as a must-have Switch title.

Editor's recommendations




13 Feb
Blog

Lenovo ThinkPad X1 Nano Review: Small, Light, and Excellent

Lenovo ThinkPad X1 Nano

"The ThinkPad X1 Nano is an extraordinary addition for small laptops."

  • Solid productivity performance

  • Extremely light

  • Good keyboard and touchpad

  • Excellent battery life

  • Very nice 16:10 display

Lenovo has been working on its legendary ThinkPad line for several years and is breaking away from the tried and tested. With the great ThinkPad X1 Extreme and a 2-in-1 tablet form factor with the detachable ThinkPad X12, it got big and powerful. Let's not start with the craziness of the ThinkPad X1 Fold.

Now Lenovo has made the ThinkPad X1 Nano the smallest and lightest ThinkPad of all time. Don't think that this means it's cheaper as the configuration of the ThinkPad X1 Nano review unit that Lenovo sent me costs a cool $ 1,847. This gives you an 11th generation Intel Tiger Lake Core i7-1060G7, 16 GB RAM, a 512 GB PCIe solid-state drive (SSD) and a 13.0-inch 2K IPS display (2,160 x 1,350 ) in the increasingly popular 16:10 aspect ratio.

The ThinkPad X1 Nano has jumped into a very competitive area (Hello, Dell XPS 13). Does the ThinkPad X1 Nano live up to its potential?

design

Lenovo ThinkPad X1 Nano

Lenovo may have made the ThinkPad X1 Nano smaller than any other ThinkPad, but it didn't detract from the aesthetics. The ThinkPad X1 Nano is just as black as most ThinkPads – no visible carbon fiber like the ThinkPad X1 Extreme or a titanium cover like the one in the new ThinkPad X1 Titanium Yoga.

You'll find the same subtle red cues as the “i” LED on the ThinkPad Yoga and the red TrackPoint nubbin and red key accents. It's a super conservative look that can only be found in the ThinkPad. The simple design neither corresponds to the slim lines of the Dell XPS 13 nor the elegant elegance of the HP Specter x360 13.

The X1 Nano is built like other ThinkPads, with a mix of materials resulting in a robust chassis. In this case, it is a carbon fiber hybrid material that makes up the lid with a magnesium-aluminum alloy in the bottom of the case. These materials contribute to the ThinkPad X1 Nano's low weight of just 1.99 pounds compared to the XPS 13 and Specter x360 13, both at 2.8 pounds. And the ThinkPad X1 Nano feels just as rugged as the two, which are some of the toughest we've tested.

For a device in its class, the X1 Nano is the lightest laptop you can buy.

Note that 1.99 pounds is really, really light. For a laptop of this type, the X1 Nano is the lightest laptop you can buy – even lighter than the LG Gram 13, whose entire purpose is to be as light as possible. It's almost as light as the Acer Swift 7 (1.96 pounds) and lighter than the Samsung Galaxy Chromebook (2.3 pounds), neither of which are in this CPU class.

Is such a lightweight laptop such a big deal? They are certainly a joy to use and carry around. When you add the materials of the ThinkPad X1 Nano that are cool to the touch, you get an extremely attractive and comfortable laptop.

If – like some lightweight laptops – it felt weak to the touch, it would diminish the benefit of being so light. However, the ThinkPad X1 Nano feels just as solid as any ThinkPad. The lid, the keyboard deck or the housing must not be bent, twisted or bent. The XPS 13, however, has the ThinkPad X1 Nano-Beat when it comes to the hinge – the latter is a bit stiffer and requires both hands to open.

The ThinkPad X1 Nano is not quite as thin as it is light and has a taper of 0.55 to 0.66 inches. The XPS 13 is only 0.58 inches, while the Specter x360 13 is slightly thicker at 0.67 inches. Since the ThinkPad X1 Nano's top and bottom bezels are slightly larger than those of the XPS 13, it's a bit deeper, but not by much, even with the smaller display (13 "versus 13.4").

Thanks to the larger 16:10 display (just like the XPS 13), the ThinkPad X1 Nano offers more space for the palm rest than the Specter x360 13, which is still 16: 9.

Lenovo ThinkPad X1 Nano

Connectivity is one area where the ThinkPad X1 Nano is affected by its size. There are only two USB-C with Thunderbolt 4 ports on the left, mating with a 3.5mm audio jack. The Specter x360 13 can insert both a USB-A port and a microSD card reader, which the ThinkPad X1 Nano lacks.

However, with Wi-Fi 6 and Bluetooth 5.0, the Lenovo is at the cutting edge of wireless connectivity. Support for 4G or 5G WWAN is optional via a SIM slot on the back.

security

Lenovo ThinkPad X1 Nano

I'm adding a special section to this review to take into account some pretty cool technologies that Lenovo has built into the ThinkPad X1 Nano. None of this is new, but the software in particular has been perfected – at least compared to the last time I tried it.

The ThinkPad X1 Nano has the usual ThinkShutter physical slider that covers the webcam. So this is nothing special when it comes to ThinkPads. What is special, however, is the HPD (Human Presence Detection) technology and software that uses radar to detect when a user is in front of the laptop and when this user leaves. As long as the user is in front of the ThinkPad X1 Nano, it will stay awake and function normally.

However, move outside of a 60-degree arc and the laptop will turn off the display, lock it, and go into modern standby mode to save battery life. As soon as the user returns within that 60-degree arc, the ThinkPad X1 Nano is activated and automatically logs in again if Windows Hello is set up for facial recognition.

It works very well and is a real convenience – when you're not doing a task, that is. I noticed that my lengthy benchmarks were interrupted when the software put the ThinkPad X1 Nano to sleep. Therefore, the utility must be turned off if the computer is to continue running. I couldn't find a setting to turn off the step of switching to Modern Standby which is a bit of a stupid thing to do.

Overall, however, I found Lenovo's solution to be faster and more reliable than the similar utility found on Dell's Latitude 7400 2-in-1.

performance

Lenovo ThinkPad X1 Nano

The ThinkPad X1 Nano uses a previously unusual version of the latest 11th generation Tiger Lake CPU from Intel, the Core i7-1160G7. In contrast to the more popular Core i7-1165G7 with an output of up to 4.7 GHz and a TDP (Thermal Design Power) range of 12 to 28 watts, the Core i7-1160G7 achieves a maximum output of 4.4 GHz and a lower TDP range from seven to seven watts 15 watts. That makes it less power hungry and cooler – a good fit for the tiny X1 Nano.

Although the CPU is theoretically slower, it didn't do particularly well in our benchmark tests. The ThinkPad X1 Nano didn't show up in Geekbench 5, where it could only manage 5,139 in multi-core mode and 1,466 in single-core mode. Other Tiger Lake laptops typically exceed 5,400 and 1,500. In Handbrake, where we encode a 420 MB video as H.265, the ThinkPad X1 Nano did surprisingly well and finished in exactly three minutes. That outperforms some laptops with faster Tiger Lake chips, like the Dell XPS 13 with a Core i7-1185G7, which takes about 20 seconds longer. The HP Specter x360 14 with a Core i7-1165G7 took 10 seconds longer.

The ThinkPad X1 Nano also did relatively well in Cinebench R23, where it achieved 4,550 points in multi-core mode and 1,377 points in single-core mode. This beats the XPS 13 (4,267 and 1,449) again, but fell behind the Specter x360 14 in performance mode (4,847 and 1,404). The ThinkPad X1 Nano is not the fastest Tiger Lake laptop in this test, but it is not as far behind as the CPU specs suggest.

Finally, I ran the PCMark 10 Complete test, where the ThinkPad X1 Nano got a total of 4,684 and then 9,295 in the Essentials, 6,413 in Productivity, and 4,678 in the Creation subtests. These values ​​are a little further behind the faster CPUs, in which the Specter x360 14 scored 4,796, 9,760, 6,340 and 4,837 points in the various tests. This is the only test in which the lower CPU of the ThinkPad X1 Nano couldn't quite keep up.

Lenovo ThinkPad X1 Nano

In general, however, the ThinkPad X1 Nano was fast enough for productivity tasks. I've never seen slowdowns happen, and I've used it just as hard as any other laptop I've checked. Lenovo did a great job of packing just the right amount of performance into the small and lightweight chassis.

In terms of gaming, the ThinkPad X1 Nano, which came with the usual Intel Iris Xe that you'll find in Tiger Lake machines, was also competitive. In the 3DMark Time Spy test, which is located in the middle of the field, 1,549 points were achieved. The XPS 13 managed 1,589 while the MSI Prestige 14 Evo (otherwise a very fast laptop) only managed 1,465. The Specter x360 14 scored a glowing 1,709 in performance mode.

I also ran Fortnite which was running on the ThinkPad X1 Nano at 1920 x 1200 and I saw 31 frames per second (fps) in 1080p and high graphics and 23 fps in epic graphics. This is comparable to the XPS 13 with 29 fps and 22 fps and the Specter x360 14 with 36 fps and 23 fps. Some Tiger Lake laptops are faster and some are slower, but in general they approach the discrete Nvidia MX350 performance of a very small and light laptop.

display

The ThinkPad X1 Nano has a brand new display with an aspect ratio of 16:10 (13.0 inches). It has a 2K (2,160 x 1,350) resolution which is very sharp, although I've noticed that the color temperature is a little warm (yellowish).

According to my colorimeter, this is a good display for a premium laptop, but not a great one. The color gamut was of average width at 74% of AdobeRGB and 98% of sRGB, and color accuracy was good at DeltaE 1.31, with 1.0 or less being considered excellent. The XPS 13 Full HD + display was similar at 75% AdobeRGB and 98% sRGB and a color accuracy of 1.36. The Specter x369 13 I tested used an OLED display with much wider and more accurate colors, so this isn't the best comparison.

Lenovo ThinkPad X1 Nano

The ThinkPad X1 Nano's display was very bright at 414 nits, which was nice to see (no pun intended). That made it bright enough to overwhelm a lot of ambient light. The contrast was 980: 1 and thus just below our preferred threshold of 1000: 1 for premium laptops. The XPS 13 was brighter at 458 nits and had a much better contrast at 1350: 1. Here, too, the OLED panel of the Specter x360 13 was superior in its almost infinite contrast, although it was not as bright at 405 nits.

I enjoyed the display, especially the 16:10 aspect ratio. After getting used to the color temperature being a little warm, I made myself comfortable and enjoyed the panel for all the work I threw on it. Creative guys in need of large bezels of color will want to look elsewhere, but for most people this is a very good indicator.

Audio was very good, with tons of volume for such a small laptop, and no distortion. This is possible thanks to quad speakers, two downward-facing woofers and two upward-facing tweeters. You get great highs and mids and just a little bit of bass. It's enough for Netflix and the occasional music, though it can't lose sight of the best laptop speakers out there, the MacBook Pro's. I also find that the speakers are a little less pleasant than the HP Specter x360 14's quad speakers, which are just a little more powerful.

Keyboard and touchpad

According to Lenovo, the keyboard of the ThinkPad X1 Nano is the same as that of other ThinkPads, with "similar" travel. This certainly seems to be the case – they're the same shaped buttons with plenty of spacing, and the mechanism is almost identical to other ThinkPads. I think the trip is a little less, which I think is a good thing – I find the "normal" ThinkPad keyboard a little too much effort.

I like the lighter keyboards on the Dell XPS 13, the HP Specter range, and Apple's Magic Keyboard on the latest MacBooks. Ultimately, the ThinkPad X1 Nano's keyboard feel is the best I've seen on a ThinkPad, unless it's my imagination.

Lenovo ThinkPad X1 Nano

The touchpad is a Microsoft Precision version that enables a precise tracking experience and functional multi-touch gestures under Windows 10. You lose some space on the buttons for the TrackPoint nubbin in the middle of the keyboard, which has always bothered me about ThinkPads. Really, the touchpad is too small where the extra space could make for a larger wipe surface thanks to the larger display.

Speaking of the display: Touch is not supported, which is also negative. I find touchless laptops annoying after I get used to scrolling long web pages with my thumb and tapping fast on-screen buttons with my finger.

Finally, Windows 10 Hello support is provided by both a fingerprint reader directly to the right of the touchpad and an infrared camera above for facial recognition. With the human presence detection function, the face recognition method is particularly useful and works perfectly.

Battery life

Lenovo ThinkPad X1 Nano

When I saw that the ThinkPad X1 Nano only had 48 watt hours of battery, I expected it to compete with other ThinkPads in a mediocre battery life. I suppose the smaller display and lower power consumption CPU made a real difference, as the ThinkPad X1 Nano definitely outperforms the ThinkPad trend.

First, I ran our web browser test, which gave a passable indication of the productivity of the battery life. Here, the ThinkPad X1 Nano managed 10.25 hours, which is a very good score, which probably means the laptop meets or exceeds Intel Evo certification of nine hours of typical use.

It also outperformed the XPS 13 Full HD + and the 4K OLED-equipped Specter x360 13 (with a 60 watt hour battery) by almost two hours. In our video test, which ran through a Full HD Avengers trailer, the ThinkPad X1 Nano lasted 18 hours – an extraordinary result. That's six hours longer than the XPS 13 and eight hours longer than the Specter x360 13.

I also ran the PCMark 10 gaming battery test which was draining the CPU and the ThinkPad X1 Nano lasted almost four hours. This is the second longest score we've ever seen, just a second behind the XPS 13 Full HD +. I tried running the PCMark 10 Application battery test which is the best indicator of productivity longevity. Unfortunately the test failed several times. However, I imagine that the ThinkPad X1 Nano would have done well in the test and, overall, should have offered the typical productivity user more than a full day of battery life.

Our opinion

The ThinkPad X1 Nano is a highly competent player in the market for small laptops. It offers solid productivity performance, great battery life, and a solid build with a good keyboard and usable human presence detection technology. Thanks to the 16:10 panel, it's up to date with the move to a higher display.

The ThinkPad X1 Nano doesn't have much to like. It doesn't quite have the glitz of the XPS 13, and it doesn't have the standout looks or flexibility of the Specter x360 13, but as far as 13-inch laptops go, this is a good one.

Are there alternatives?

The HP Specter x360 14 is a solid alternative and offers its own taller display with a 13.5-inch 3: 2 OLED panel that is miles ahead of the ThinkPad's display. Depending on the configuration, the price roughly corresponds to that of the ThinkPad X1 Nano, but is characterized by its 2-in-1 flexibility.

The Dell XPS 13 9310 is perhaps the most logical competitor with a slightly larger 16:10 display and an optimized design. Performance is similar between the two, but the ThinkPad has better battery life. The XPS 13 is just as well built, has a superior display, and can handle more storage and RAM than what Lenovo is offering.

When you're ready to switch operating systems, Apple's MacBook Pro 13 M1 is another great option. It's extremely fast, maybe better built, has a better display, and has the best keyboard and audio quality on any laptop. It's also several hundred dollars cheaper than the ThinkPad X1 Nano.

How long it will take?

The Lenovo ThinkPad X1 Nano is well built and should have useful productivity for years. The components are state-of-the-art. It is covered by the one-year guarantee that is customary in the industry and that is too short.

Should you buy it?

Yes. The ThinkPad X1 Nano is a very well built, very light and very durable laptop with some additional security features and a modern display.

Editor's recommendations




13 Feb
Blog

Samsung Jet 90 Stick Vacuum Review: Dust Can’t Flee This One

Samsung Jet 90 Complete battery stick vacuum handheld

Samsung Jet 90 Complete Stick Cordless Vacuum Cleaner

"Dust cannot escape the suction power of the Samsung Jet 90 Complete Cordless Stick Vacuum, and no dirt is disposed of."

  • HEPA filter catches fine dust

  • Versatile set of cleaning tools

  • Including charging station

  • Lightweight construction

  • The brush can still get tangled up with hair

  • 3.5 hours charging time for the battery

Cordless vacuums seem to be all the rage these days. Businesses have paid a lot of attention to them because of their powerful suction, versatile accessories, and ability to fit into the tightest nooks and crannies. The Samsung Jet 90 Complete Cordless Stick Vacuum has all of these basic features and takes home air quality seriously with a clean station that removes all debris – so dust and allergens don't get back into the air after every cleaning. Do you really need an automatic disposal system for your vacuum? Let's find out.

Easy contender grabs a punch

Compared to other vacuum cleaners I've tested, the Samsung Jet 90 Complete Cordless Stick Vacuum is one of the slimmer options out there. It's certainly lighter and not that bulky, which is always good, but I'm surprised at how slimmer it looks than the mighty Dyson V11 Torque Drive. Weighing 6.17 pounds, it can be easily handled for all types of cleaning.

Samsung Jet 90 Complete base station for battery stick vacuum charging stationJohn Velasco / Digital Trends

When cleaning floors and carpets, I like how the Turbo Action Brush can be expanded to accommodate everyone – big or small, it can be adjusted correctly. With a suction power of 200 watts, the Jet 90 perfectly catches embedded debris and dust that is stuck deep in carpets. I was impressed with the amount of fine dust particles that could be caught with the 5-layer HEPA filter system, but you should set the suction power to Max for best results. Although it is capable of pulling in hair, I still noticed a few small tangles with the Turbo Action Brush.

It is powerful enough to suck deeply embedded particles from carpets.

For hardwoods and tiles, the soft brush supplied has a gentle surface that does not scratch the floor. It's also particularly handy for picking up cat litter from the floor as it holds the trash in place when the brush runs over it.

It may seem quaint, but the Samsung Jet 90 Complete Cordless Stick Vacuum's 0.8-liter trash can is a bit larger compared to its competitors – the Dyson V11 Torque Drive and LG CordZero A9 have a 0.75-liter and 0.75-liter trash can, respectively 0.39 l.

Samsung Jet 90 Complete cordless vacuum cleanerJohn Velasco / Digital Trends

Overall, it's an excellent all-rounder that can tackle almost anything. Sure, its suction isn't as strong as the Dyson V11 Torque Drive, but it has enough pressure to suck deeply embedded particles from carpets.

Ingeniously designed accessories

Samsung offers a range of accessories for the Jet 90, including the Turbo Action Brush, Soft Brush, Splitting Tool, Brush Tool, and a combination tool that is ideal for furniture. The design of these accessories shows a degree of ingenuity as some of them can be articulated beyond their standard actions. For example, you can use the splitting tool to get a little more stretch – so that even more suction is applied.

What's even better is that the package includes a charging station. We're seeing more and more cordless vacuums offering this, but it's gotten better here because it includes some accessories too. However, only two accessories can be hung on the base station, so three must be placed elsewhere (you can of course attach one of the brushes to the vacuum).

Samsung Jet 90 Complete accessories for cordless vacuum cleanersJohn Velasco / Digital Trends

However, once it clicks into place, the 2850 mA battery will recharge. This battery is designed for 60 minutes on a full charge, which is exactly what I clocked with the vacuum. However, it takes a whopping 3.5 hours to charge. There is actually another dock that can charge a spare battery, but you'd have to buy one separately for $ 150.

Do you really need an automated disposal system?

Car disposal systems are becoming more common among robotic vacuum cleaners. It only makes sense because they are self-sufficient autonomous and clean, which is good for us as the entire cleaning process means very little to no interaction from us humans. Now it looks like the trend is coming to cordless vacuum cleaners too.

The Samsung Jet 90 is the first cordless vacuum cleaner I've tested that has an optional automatic disposal system, the Samsung Clean Station. It can be mistaken for a charging station, but has a 5-layer HEPA filter system that sucks in the contents of the Jet 90's trash can so that dirt and debris do not get into the house. It can be difficult to empty a trash can over a trash can.

With the Samsung Clean Station, however, you simply take the garbage can out of the vacuum cleaner and put it in the compartment – and it sucks in the contents at the push of a button. As simple as that.

But is that really necessary? I honestly don't think so, mostly because it will get you back an additional $ 199 for picking up the Samsung Clean Station. You just might be more careful emptying the vacuum cleaner's trash can. For those who are special or more prone to dust, this is an option.

Our opinion

The Samsung Jet 90 Complete Cordless Stick Vacuum is a great model that has what it takes to make it an effective home cleaning tool. It's expensive at $ 500, but it's still less than the comparable Dyson V11 Torque Drive ($ 600) and the LG CordZero A9 ($ 550). Alone you get a solid cordless vacuum that is easy to maneuver, swallows dirt, and comes with smartly designed accessories and a base station.

How long it will take?

It's mainly made of sturdy plastic, which adds to its lightweight feel. It feels well made and solid, so it should last a long time. Samsung offers one 1 year limited warranty that covers parts and labor due to defects.

Is there a better alternative?

If you prefer suction power, the Dyson V11 Torque Drive can clean carpets more thoroughly. In addition, the brush does not tend to tangle hair there. You pay more, but suction power is hard to beat. Alternatively, the LG CordZero A9 offers something similar with its package while inserting a spare battery to give users a longer cleaning time.

Should you buy it?

Yes, you will be amazed at the fine dust particles it can absorb and contain.

Editor's recommendations




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