Reviews Archives - Page 2 of 27

POCO X6 Neo 5G Review: Eye Candy!

POCO recently launched its POCO X6 series, which includes the POCO X6 5G and POCO X6 Pro 5G. Both models have received a lot of attention since their release. Recently, POCO introduced the youngest member of the X6 family in India: the POCO X6 Neo 5G. Price starts from ₹15,999; this smartphone competes in the highly competitive sub-₹20,000 segment.

DESIGN

The POCO X6 Neo is a well-designed smartphone, considering its price. Despite its plastic body, the phone looks impressive due to its slim profile, which gives it a sleek and refined appearance. In addition, the POCO X6 Neo is lightweight at just 175 g, making it comfortable to hold. The back design of the POCO X6 Neo phone looks great, especially in the Martian Orange colour that I received for review. The texture is beautiful, but it’s important to note that the back is made of plastic and can be scratched easily without a protective case. Thankfully, POCO includes a soft black rubber case to protect the phone, but it does hide its beauty. The POCO X6 Neo does not have a pre-applied screen protector. If you want to keep the screen scratch-free, you’ll need to purchase a screen protector separately.

Surprisingly, the device includes a 3.5mm audio jack located on the top. Only a few brands offer this audio jack nowadays. Additionally, there is an infrared blaster to control TVs, ACs, and other electronics. This feature is handy as it eliminates the need for multiple remotes for each electronic device in the house, making it easier to manage.

On the right side, you can find the power and volume buttons that are conveniently placed. At the bottom is a Type-C port that supports up to 33 watts of fast charging and a speaker grill.

The POCO X6 Neo features a flat 6.67-inch AMOLED display with a 120Hz refresh rate protected by Corning Gorilla Glass 5. Upon first use, you will notice the thin bezel on the device. Reducing the bezels from all sides gives the phone a more premium and appealing look. POCO has done an impressive job in this aspect.

PERFORMANCE

The POCO X6 Neo is a budget smartphone priced at under ₹20000, and its specifications are decent. It runs on a MediaTek Dimensity 6080 processor, which offers reliable performance. Recently, budget processors have become so powerful that you won’t notice any lag in everyday usage. Scrolling menus, surfing multiple websites, watching 4K YouTube videos, and Netflix worked without noticeable lag. All thanks to its 12GB abundant RAM, multitasking was a breeze. I could open as many Chrome tabs, and it still performed smoothly.

For those who are interested in benchmark scores, I have run tests on some popular apps. The Antutu Benchmark resulted in a score of 464489. The Geekbench score was 767 in Single-core and 2070 in Multi-core. Additionally, I performed the Wildfire Extreme Stress test, and the phone achieved the best loop score of 371. All of these scores indicate that the phone has a decent level of performance.

The POCO X6 Neo is powered by an MIUI 14 operating system based on Android 13. It features a POCO launcher with a clean and easy-to-use user interface. While there are no significant drawbacks to using Android 13, since it is a new smartphone, it could have been better to run on the latest Android 14 out of the box. However, the company has announced that it will release an Android 14 update for the POCO X6 Neo in the coming months. This means users can expect the device to perform even better with future updates.

One of the major issues with POCO phones is the presence of unnecessary pre-installed apps. Although some apps pre-installed on POCO X6 Neo were useful, many are unnecessary and can make the device feel cluttered. While removing most of these apps is possible, the process is often tedious and time-consuming, which can be frustrating when you’re trying to quickly set up your phone.

Playing games on the POCO X6 Neo is a lot of fun! I’ve tried many different ones, including my favourite BGMI, Call of Duty, and the racing game Asphalt 9. This budget-friendly smartphone runs on a mid-range MediaTek Dimensity 6080 processor with a Mali-G57 MC2 GPU. The games run smoothly at an average of 30fps, enough for a decent gaming experience.

The POCO X6 Neo supports up to 120Hz refresh rate, making the device feel smoother when scrolling through your social media feeds on Instagram or Facebook. The phone comes with a 5000mAh battery and supports up to 33-watt fast charging, which can charge the phone fully in approximately 2 hours. With medium usage, the battery lasted a whole day. However, if you’re a heavy user, using intensive games or the camera for extended periods, expect to charge the battery by evening.

During our testing, we performed a battery drain test on the POCO X6 Neo while playing 4K YouTube content on the phone. We monitored the device’s battery level and found that it went from 28% to 20% within a 30-minute period of playing 4K video.

CAMERA

The POCO X6 Neo boasts a dual-camera setup on its back, with a primary sensor of 108 MP and a depth sensor of 2 MP for portrait mode. However, it lacks an ultra-wide or dedicated telephoto camera sensor, which can be expected for this budget.

The 108 MP camera sensor functions as a telephoto and can digitally zoom up to 10X. This phone’s camera can take above-average pictures in various lighting conditions, whether in low-light or well-lit environments. It captures decent shots with reasonable levels of detail and vivid colours. However, the dynamic range can sometimes be inconsistent, making some highlights overexposed and hard to manage. Despite this, it still takes photos that are overall decent. When it comes to close-up photos, the sharpness can be hit-or-miss, resulting in occasional slightly soft images. Overall, the camera does a decent job producing satisfactory images but may struggle in more challenging lighting conditions. Portrait photos are mediocre – the edge detection is not the best, and detail retention could be better. Additionally, the phone tends to overexpose the entire photo in harsh light.

Selfie pictures are of good quality in daylight, but their quality quickly degrades in low-light conditions. Low-light pictures taken with the primary camera often have a lot of noise and lower sharpness.

VERDICT

Overall, the POCO X6 Neo offers a sleek design and lightweight build, making it ideal for everyday usage. Its slim bezels and bright AMOLED display ensure an immersive visual experience. However, the phone falls short in certain areas, such as having average cameras and pre-installed bloatware apps that can be bothersome. Nonetheless, the question remains: Is the phone worth its price? The answer is yes. This beautifully designed smartphone offers decent performance and supports fast charging, making it a great choice in this price segment.

moto g04 (Review) – A Trusty Sidekick for Everyday Adventures

Need a smartphone that handles your daily digital dance effortlessly and arrives with a modest starting price of ₹6,999*, then the ‘moto g04’ is worth your attention. The g04 sports a generous 6.56-inch display, up to 8GB RAM for seamless multitasking, a 16-MP primary sensor, a UNISOC T606 processor and a 5000mAh battery. On paper, it looks like a perfect budget smartphone, but is it really the one?

Build

Let’s start with the camera module, where Motorola takes a bold, minimalist stance. Eschewing the clutter of unnecessary sensors, the G04 opts for a single main sensor and a flash, cutting through the gimmicks to deliver pure photographic prowess. With a Type-C charging port and a single speaker grille adorning the bottom, the G04 boasts a layout that’s both intuitive and elegant.

The volume buttons and side-mounted fingerprint sensor of the g04 seamlessly integrate with the power button, ensuring effortless access to every function. And let’s not forget the beloved 3.5mm headphone jack, strategically perched on top. Weighing in at 178.8 grams and fortified with IP52 water-repellent protection, this phone is as tough as it is stylish. And for those prone to butterfingers, a silicone cover awaits, included right in the box for your peace of mind.

Display

The moto g04 sports a generous 6.56-inch HD+ 90Hz LCD screen with a pixel resolution of 1612 × 720, a 20:9 aspect ratio, and a pixel density of approximately 269 PPI. The punch-hole screen of the moto g04 houses a 5-megapixel camera, ensuring crisp selfies with every click. And with up to 537 nits of peak brightness, even the sunniest days won’t dull your display. While the G04 may lack HDR support, it compensates with an array of display options.

Performance

With the UNISOC T606 chip and 8GB of RAM at its disposal, multitasking becomes a breeze. You can effortlessly juggle multiple apps without skipping a beat. While it may not boast the bells and whistles of pricier models, the Moto G04 handles the essentials with finesse, whether you’re sending texts or indulging in a round of Sudoku. The moto g04 isn’t designed for gaming and movie experience, but it is amplified by the Dolby Atmos-powered single speaker that produces clear and loud sounds. And with the latest Android 14 onboard, the G04 ensures you’re always ahead of the curve, enjoying the latest features and enhancements with each swipe and tap.

Camera

With familiar Motorola simplicity, the camera UI puts creative control at your fingertips, from adjusting aspect ratios to experimenting with Night Vision and Portrait modes. Daylight scenes burst to life with vibrant colours and impressive dynamic range. Yet, this camera isn’t without its limitations. Lacking an ultra-wide lens or depth sensor, it’s not built for capturing landscapes or intricate details. Still, it holds its own in portrait mode, rendering subjects with a pleasing bokeh effect. And while low-light performance may not rival higher-end devices, it captures the essence of the moment with admirable clarity.

Battery

With a robust 5000mAh capacity, moto g04 is made to keep pace with your every move, whether you’re binge-watching your favourite series or conquering the digital frontier with dual 4G enabled. Even under the relentless onslaught of heavy usage, the G04 stands tall, delivering a full day of uninterrupted power. The moto g04 ships with a 10W charger in the box, and took about 1 hour and 50 minutes to charge the phone from 0 to 100%.

Verdict

If you’re in the market for an entry-level marvel that won’t break the bank, the Moto G04 is the one you should go for. Whether it’s for the kids, the grandparents, or simply as a trusty sidekick for everyday adventures, the G04 delivers on all fronts. It is one of the most budget-friendly phones currently available in the market, but if your heart yearns for a bit more photographic prowess or the promise of future OS upgrades, then consider options like the Realme Narzo N53 and the Poco C55, each offering its own unique blend of features and innovations. With prices hovering around ₹8,000, the choice is yours to make.

Nothing Phone 2(a) – Nothing does another Nothing

Nothing has been transparent in its products and approach towards bringing the best style and value to any given customer. Just like the Google Pixel (a) series, the Nothing Phone 2 (a) is a budget offering for the masses with the goodness of Nothing OS and Glyph light features in a new design language, one worthy of copying by other manufacturers.

Design

Nothing has been banking on the design and form factor to make their products unique in a sea of similar-looking products. Adhering to the mandate of transparency, the Nothing Phone 2 (a) brings a centre-mounted camera island housing two cameras, a transparent back with 3 glyph lights and a glass back that curves to the edges flowing the design seamlessly in one’s hands. The matte finish metal sides with glossy glass finish at the rear feel unique, and the weight balance, along with the sheer large dimensions, make the Nothing Phone 2 (a) seem like a meticulously crafted smartphone.

Display

A 6.7-inch flexible AMOLED variable refresh rate FHD+ panel with good brightness levels and accurate colour calibration dominates the front fascia. This HDR+ panel supports most industry standards and allows for immersive gameplay and content consumption. The symmetrical bezels make this phone look neat, and despite the 6.7-inch display, it is still physically larger than something like the Samsung Galaxy S24 Plus, sporting a 6.8-inch display. Given the budget pricing, the phone looks way above its price tag thanks to the symmetry and overall neat display design.

Performance

MediaTek SKUs are confusing. Nothing Phone 2 (a) sports a 4nm MediaTek Dimensity 7200 Pro. This Octa-core SOC with 12GB RAM and 256GB fast storage performs way better than most around the similar price bracket. We witnessed 90fps gaming on social games like Call of Duty, and high fidelity in other graphic-intensive games surprising the performance packed inside this budget Nothing offering. The Nothing OS 2.5.x runs on Android 14, and although the chip supports AI features, Nothing has stirred clear of any AI experiments for now. Overall, the UI animations are buttery smooth, the apps run seamlessly, and the experience is definitely worth every single penny. Glyph features along with a composer to make your own glyph patterns, and the additional experimental features also support Apple Airpods natively. Calling and texting with haptics, sound quality and video are impressive with the loads of 5G, tri-band Wi-Fi and Bluetooth 5.3 goodness.

Camera

The rear camera sensor is similar to the primary camera setup of its predecessor, shooting pixel-binned 12.5MP shots from the 50MP rear camera. The shots are detailed, and crisp and carry good colour calibration and saturation with decent contrast levels from both the primary and ultra-wide cameras. Capped to shoot only 4k 40fps, both the cameras perform great in the video, although focus searching was an issue on our pre-production unit. Night shots, too can be improved as they do over-process the image at times. We hope a software update improves the performance, as has been the track record of Nothing. Overall, the cameras are decent and do the job of capturing memories very well.

Battery and Verdict

Battery life has been above average with our heavy-use scenario. There is no charger included, although fast charge transparent design cable does the aesthetics utmost justice. Nothing has skipped wireless charging, and at the price point, it is understandable. Nothing Phone 2 (a) is just as impressive, if not more as the Pixel (a) series. Along with the competitive pricing and the design, Nothing has bought their A-game to compete in a crowded segment of smartphones. If you are looking for something unique on a budget, the Nothing Phone 2 (a) should glyph your radar.

Specs

6.78-inch variable FHD+ AMOLED HDR
MediaTek Dimensity 7200 Pro
Nothing OS + Android 14
12GB RAM + 256 ROM

reMarkable 2 Review: Digital Canvas for Elites

Writing on paper or slate may seem outdated in this modern age of technology. However, occasionally, we may feel nostalgic about writing our notes on paper with a pen. The problem with this is that saving those pages digitally can be complicated. We recently had the opportunity to try out the reMarkable 2 tablet, its stylus, and keyboard. This unique tablet prioritizes a paper-like experience for note-taking, sketching, and reading. We’re curious to see if it will replace our current note-taking tablet, so we’ll be putting it to the test.

DESIGN AND BUILD

The reMarkable 2 tablet is a standout device for its carefully designed exterior, which is both sleek and minimalistic. It offers a writing experience similar to writing on paper with its E-Ink display. The tablet is lightweight and durable, making it easy to carry around. The tablet’s ergonomic design ensures comfortable usage for extended periods without getting fatigued. Meanwhile, the stylus improves the writing experience, making it natural and intuitive. The tablet’s front is an almost-perfect imitation of writing on paper. The low-friction, textured surface feels like paper, and the stylus provides a satisfying tactile experience that surpasses most other tablets, including Apple iPad paired with Pencil.

FUNCTIONALITY

The reMarkable 2 tablet is a simple device that eliminates distractions and facilitates note-taking, reading, and drawing. Unlike other tablets loaded with various apps and notifications, the reMarkable 2 is specifically intended for those who value the art of handwriting and want to use it for brainstorming, document annotation, and note-taking. The tablet offers a paper-like experience and a distraction-free environment that can be highly beneficial for users. Its pressure-sensitive pen and textured surface make it an excellent tool for sketching, drawing, and taking creative notes. The device also has features like folders, tags, and notebooks to help users organize their work. With 8GB of storage, the reMarkable 2 can store all notes, sketches, and drawings. However, the storage space is more than sufficient since it can only store notes and drawings. Users can also sync all their work on the cloud, ensuring that their notes and documents are accessible across multiple devices.

However, unlike iPads or Android tablets, the reMarkable 2 lacks basic functionalities like web browsing, email, or media consumption. This might be a dealbreaker for users seeking a more versatile device, especially given its price.

BATTERY

One of the standout features of this device is its impressive battery life, which can last for several weeks on a single charge, unlike other devices that require frequent charging. This makes it an ideal choice for users who need a reliable device for extended use, whether for work or personal use, without worrying about running out of battery power.

also read: Asus Zenbook 14 OLED (UX3405MA)

VERDICT

Overall, the reMarkable 2 is a specialized device that caters to those people who value a distraction-free, paper-like experience when it comes to note-taking, sketching, and reading. This device provides a nostalgic writing experience and a long battery life. However, it comes with a premium price tag and has limited functionality compared to traditional tablets. Therefore, it is necessary to carefully evaluate your needs and budget before deciding if the reMarkable 2 is the right fit for you.

Price: 43,999/-

Asus Zenbook 14 OLED (UX3405MA) Review: Stylish Powerhouse

The 2024 Asus Zenbook 14 OLED is a newly updated laptop with a compact design and a stunning OLED display. Despite its small size, the laptop packs impressive specs. The unit I received for review isn’t a higher-tier configuration but has an Intel Core Ultra 7 CPU and 32GB RAM.

BUILD & DISPLAY

Asus has maintained its reputation for crafting premium laptops with the Zenbook 14 OLED. The metal chassis is sturdy, and the design is sleek and sophisticated. Weighing just 1.21 kg, it’s easy to carry to meetings and events. Thanks to its thin and light design, the Zenbook 14 OLED is ideal for professionals who need to work on the go. The main highlight of the ASUS Zenbook OLED is its 14-inch OLED panel with a 3K resolution, 120Hz refresh rate, and vibrant colours. Thanks to the OLED display, it offered stunning visuals for work, creative tasks, and even entertainment. Additionally, the Zenbook 14 OLED has a touch screen that makes navigating the Windows 11 operating system easy. The touchscreen features Corning Gorilla Glass, which enhances scratch resistance and reduces scratch visibility.

PERFORMANCE

The ASUS Zenbook 14 OLED is a high-performance laptop that comes equipped with an Intel Core Ultra 7 155-H processor with Intel Arc graphics. This processor has 16 cores and 22 threads and can reach speeds of up to 4.8GHz. Using this laptop for everyday office tasks is a breeze, and it can handle even the most demanding workloads with ease. I have personally opened over 40 Chrome tabs on this laptop, and it didn’t even lag a bit. I could also edit photos and create shorts/reels without any issues. The fast and efficient Intel Core Ultra 7 155-H processor and 32GB LPDDR5x RAM ensured everything ran smoothly.

In terms of storage, the ASUS Zenbook 14 OLED comes with 1TB NVMe SSD, which is incredibly fast and provides plenty of space for a travel laptop. You can store all your important files, including movies and software, without worrying about running out of space.

BATTERY

With its efficient components and low-power OLED display, the Zenbook 14 OLED stands out as a laptop with impressive battery life. It comes with a sizable 75Whrs battery, allowing you to work uninterrupted for an entire workday without worrying about running out of power. However, the battery depletes more quickly when performing graphics-intensive tasks or rendering. The laptop also supports 65W fast charging, providing quick battery power whenever needed. Whether you need a reliable laptop for long work sessions or are working on the go, the Zenbook 14 OLED’s battery life will surely impress.

also read: Zebronics Pro Series Z (Review) – Just Another Gen Z Kid

VERDICT

Overall, the Asus Zenbook 14 OLED is a top-tier laptop offering a stunning display, powerful performance, and exceptional battery life. However, its limited port selection and premium price tag might deter some users. Before deciding whether the Zenbook 14 OLED suits you, consider your needs and priorities carefully.

SPECS:

14-inch 3K OLED display
Intel core Ultra 7 155-H processor
32GB LPDDR5x RAM
1TB NVMe SSD
75Whr Battery

Rating: 4.5/5

OnePlus Watch 2 Review: Evolution, Not Revolution

DESIGN

The OnePlus Watch 2 is a beautifully crafted timepiece with a sleek round design. There are two buttons, which are both thoughtfully placed to prevent accidental presses.

The watch has 2.5D sapphire crystal glass and a durable stainless-steel chassis, ensuring it can withstand everyday wear and tear. One of the standout features of the OnePlus Watch 2 is its big and bold screen. Considering the watch’s size, this makes it perfect for individuals with larger wrists who may struggle with smaller watchfaces. Additionally, the watch meets IP68 standards, making it the ideal choice for swimmers and outdoor sports enthusiasts. It is also suitable for those who engage in workout activities.

PERFORMANCE

The OnePlus smartwatch boasts an interesting feature – the Dual-Engine architecture. Essentially, this feature means that the watch is powered by not one but two processors. OnePlus has named this feature as Dual-Engine Architecture. The watch is equipped with two independent chipsets – one is the BES2700 chipset, which efficiently handles light tasks from the RTOS (Real-Time Operating System). The other chipset is the Qualcomm Snapdragon W5 Gen 1 platform, which handles the more complex tasks involved in running the WearOS. The Dual-Engine architecture of my device has significantly improved its battery life. In Smart mode, the device automatically switches to different modes depending on usage, and I could squeeze out 92 hours of battery life.

I’m also impressed with the Always-On display feature of the OnePlus smartwatch in its default mode. Surprisingly, after using the Always-On feature for 24 hours, the battery only dropped by 24%, which is quite impressive for a smartwatch. All this is possible due to OnePlus’s clever trick of using RTOS, which consumes low energy and offers basic features like displaying the time and tracking multiple workouts.

The menu on the Watch 3 is quite similar to that of an Apple watch, featuring round icons arranged in a grid format. It’s powered by Google’s latest WearOS, which means it has a built-in Play Store. You can download apps and watch faces on the Watch 3.

FITNESS TRACKING

The OnePlus Watch 2 is a perfect fitness partner for anyone who wants to keep track of their physical activities and performance. The brand has invested a lot in fitness tracking. For instance, the watch comes equipped with dual GPS capabilities, which help improve location accuracy during workouts. Additionally, a Dual processor efficiently handles complex fitness tracking tasks and an extensive set of sensors that monitor your every movement. There is a dedicated button that you can use to open different sets of workouts ranging from simple outdoor runs to extreme mountain hiking. With over 100 different sports modes and 6 different modes of physical activity, you can choose the perfect workout that suits your needs.

However, the OnePlus Watch 2 does much more than just track your fitness performance. It even shows me how to improve sleep quality, manage stress levels, or increase your workout intensity.

VERDICT

The OnePlus Watch 2 has a lot going for it, but it also comes with some compromises that are hard to overlook. While the watch has some great features, such as a long battery life, a vibrant screen, and convenient shortcut buttons, some drawbacks cannot be ignored. One of the main issues is the size of the watch. Even though I have relatively thicker wrists, people with thinner wrists will find it a deal-breaker. However, if you prioritize a big screen, long battery life, and a variety of workout options, the OnePlus Watch 2 could be a good fit for you.

Galaxy S24 Plus – Almost an Ultra, Plus improves

Galaxy S24 series launched at the start of the year, and this year, as usual, there are three phones – S24, S24 Plus and S24 Ultra. What is unusual, though, are the much-needed upgrades on the Samsung Galaxy S24 Plus. For years, the Galaxy S series Plus phone has been nothing more than a larger base S series model with significant misses compared to the Ultra. This year, Samsung has evolved its game to the S tier with the new Samsung Galaxy S24 Plus.

Design

Visually, the Samsung Galaxy S24 Plus looks similar to its predecessor. The rear panel is still a colourful frost glass matching similar coloured flat metal sides with three similar camera islands at its rear. Banking on the display prowess this time around, the Samsung Galaxy S24 Plus brings a larger display in the same chassis as last year. This time, there is a 6.8-inch display with symmetrical minimal bezels all around. Samsung is simply following the quote: if it ain’t broke, don’t fix it. The design is tried and tested, minimalistically stunning and well-designed with good weight balance. IP68 ratings and gorilla glass Victus ensure protection is top-tier, too.

Display

A major upgrade to this year’s Galaxy S24 Plus is the inclusion of a QHD+ 120Hz LTPO AMOLED 6.8-inch display. The resolution, peak brightness of 2600nits on HDR content and the PPI count are ironically a little better than its elder sibling, the Samsung Galaxy S24 Ultra. The added resolution and brightness finally make the Galaxy S24 Plus feel like a worthy large flagship phone.

Performance

Performance in the current era of smartphones depends on two major factors – hardware and software. On the hardware side, Samsung has opted for the Exynos 2400, a 4nm SOC with 10 cores. Matching this performance is the 12GB RAM from the base variant with the capability to extend RAM when possible. Together with the better hardware performance comes an Android 14-based One UI software which is loaded pack with Galaxy AI, a version of implementing Google Gemini Pro on the Samsung S series. Samsung plans to bring Galaxy AI features to the S23 series too. Needless to say, the new chip performs like a flagship processor, and although it might fall on sheer benchmarking numbers compared to the Snapdragon 8 Gen 3, the Exynos 2400 holds its own, delivering snappy performance coupled with decent battery life.

Circle to search, live translate, and more AI features work seamlessly, if not perfectly and add a sense of software newness to the entire experience. There are tons of customisations, WiFi 6E and Bluetooth 5.3 support for multi-channel audio, calling, texting and gaming on this phone has been a charm. No matter what task is thrown at the phone, including some demanding games like GTA San Andreas, Genshin Impact, and Raji, the S24 Plus gamed like a console. The back did feel warm after an hour of gaming but nothing alarming. Samsung is promising 7 years of OS and security updates with the S24 Plus, and we believe the phone will stand the test of time, albeit with a battery replacement.

Camera

If it ain’t broke, don’t fix it. The camera system is the same as last year, which was the same as yesteryear. Samsung has not changed the hardware on the S Plus series since S22! The 50MP primary shooter does a commendable job with auto HDR, the 12MP ultrawide camera still maintains the details and colour science of the primary camera, and the 3x telephoto camera matches the performance overall. The primary camera can shoot 8K footage while all others can do 4K 60fps. The pictures are similar to the S23 series and maintain similar depth of contrast, crispness, saturation and contrast. The selfie camera is similar too. Overall, the tried and tested camera setup is here to stay this year and 9/10 times clicks images and videos worth saving.

What is interestingly noteworthy about S24 Plus is the new image editor and enhancement tools, which are similar to the Pixel 8 pro series. The ability to create slow-motion videos out of regular videos, edit images with a simple AI-generated tap and more make this camera setup feel more usable and creatively user-friendly. Samsung has also enabled apps like Instagram and Snapchat to access their hardware and software camera features, ensuring crisp social media integration.

Battery life and Verdict

With a healthy 4900mAh battery and the capabilities of 45W fast charge, fast wireless charging and reverse wireless charging, the Samsung Galaxy S24 Plus covers all the flagship checkmarks. The Exynos 2400 was performing below average, but a quick software update fixed the issue, and now, it has been consistently delivering above-average battery life. A day’s heavy use or two days of medium usage are sustainable on the S24 Plus.

Samsung has finally added value to the Plus category with a crisper display, better hardware, and, overall, one of the best software implementations and improvements on any series of smartphones. With the Pixel-esque image editing features, the immense capabilities of Galaxy AI powered by Google Gemini Pro and the utmost peace of mind with over half a dozen years of software support, the Samsung Galaxy S24 Plus is almost an Ultra smartphone without the S-Pen or that the multi-digit price tag. We absolutely recommend this year’s Galaxy S24 Plus for a premium large flagship Android experience.

Galaxy S24 Plus Specs

6.8-inch QHD+ LTPO AMOLED
Exynos 2400
12GB RAM + Expandable
Android 14 + One UI + Galaxy AI
INR 99,999

Honor X9b Review: Rock solid

DESIGN & BUILD

Design is an important factor that impacts your overall experience. The device has a sleek and modern look. Its slim profile and rounded edges make it comfortable to hold. Plus, it’s made from high-quality materials like glass and metal, giving it a sophisticated and elegant vibe.

One thing that stands out about the Honor X9b is its large 6.78-inch edge-to-edge display. It’s perfect for watching videos or playing games, and the minimal bezels make it feel really immersive. The camera module on the back is also really stylish, with a multi-camera setup that’s been carefully designed to look perfectly balanced. The Honor X9b review unit we received has a matte finish on the rear panel, which looks great and helps prevent fingerprints.

Of course, we all know that accidents happen. The Honor X9b has reinforced glass on both the front and back, like Corning Gorilla Glass, to protect against scratches and drops. The metal frame also adds extra toughness while making the phone feel even more premium.

PERFORMANCE

The Honor X9b delivers impressive performance, thanks to its powerful Qualcomm Snapdragon 600 Gen 3 processor. Both the software and hardware are optimized well. I have used it for a week now, and the X9b is able to effortlessly handle multitasking, gaming, and demanding applications with ease. Whether I’m streaming HD content, navigating through apps, or running intensive tasks, I haven’t noticed any significant lags. However, once I complete a quick task, the device lags a bit. Additionally, the device has advanced cooling technology that prevents it from overheating during prolonged usage sessions, ensuring consistent performance even under heavy workloads.

also read: OnePlus Watch 2 Review: Evolution, Not Revolution

CAMERA

The camera user interface on the Honor X9b is easy to use. It includes modes like Pro mode, Panorama, Super Macro, High-Res, Time-Lapse, Multi-View video and Night mode. The rear camera produces 12MP output after pixel binning, while the front camera images are 16MP in size.

The Honor X9b has a new 108MP sensor that captures daylight shots beautifully. The dynamic range is better with auto HDR. The portrait mode is good, with accurate edge detection, and the 5MP ultra-wide camera is decent, but could have given a better pixel sensor.

The night mode is helpful but takes a few seconds to process. The 16MP front camera takes decent photos but performs best in good lighting conditions. The portrait shots are good as well.

The Honor X9b is a capable device when it comes to video recording. It can record videos at a maximum frame rate of 4K 30 fps, which is impressive. Additionally, it also supports slow-motion video recording at 720p resolution with a frame rate of 120fps. This means you can capture slow-motion footage with this device, perfect for capturing action shots or creating cinematic effects.

VERDICT

Overall, the Honor X9b is a mid-range smartphone with a stylish design, long battery life, and smooth visuals. However, its inconsistent camera performance, limited software features, and lack of additional functionalities may deter users that prioritize these features.

Zebronics Pro Series Z (Review) – Just Another Gen Z Kid

Zebronics, known for its diverse range of tech products, including computer peripherals and audio accessories, steps into the laptop arena with its Pro Series Z and Pro Series Y models. Among these, the Pro Series Z catches attention for its blend of affordability and intriguing features.

Design

At first glance, the Zebronics Pro Series Z exudes an aura of elegance and sophistication. The laptop boasts a solid metal construction with a matte-finished top cover that feels reassuringly sturdy to the touch. The CNC-milled corners add a touch of refinement, reminiscent of premium offerings from established brands.

Despite its premium build, the laptop remains surprisingly lightweight, making it an ideal companion for on-the-go professionals and students alike. Furthermore, the inclusion of a plethora of ports, including USB 3.2 Gen 1 Type-A and Type-C, HDMI, and a microSD card slot, ensures seamless connectivity for various peripherals and devices.

Display, Keyboard, and Trackpad

The Pro Series Z features a vibrant 15.6-inch Full HD IPS display with an anti-reflective finish, offering an immersive viewing experience for multimedia consumption and productivity tasks alike. While the lack of backlighting may disappoint some users, the keyboard’s tactile feedback ensures comfortable typing sessions. Additionally, the generously sized trackpad, equipped with a convenient fingerprint scanner, enhances security and ease of use.

Dolby Atmos Audio

Arguably, the most captivating feature of the Pro Series Z is its Dolby Atmos support. The laptop promises an audio experience that transcends traditional laptop sound systems. Despite the inherent limitations of laptop speakers, Zebronics has managed to deliver a remarkable audio performance. The dual-firing, bottom-mounted speakers produce rich and immersive sound, enveloping the listener in a cocoon of audio bliss. With the preloaded Dolby Access software allowing for customisable sound settings, users can tailor their audio experience to suit their preferences, whether it be for music, movies, or gaming. The result is an audio experience that rivals that of dedicated home theatre systems, elevating the overall enjoyment of multimedia content.

Performance

Under the hood, the Pro Series Z packs a punch, thanks to its 12th Gen Intel(R) Core(TM) i5-1235U processor and ample 16 GB of RAM. While it may not boast the cutting-edge specifications of high-end laptops, it more than holds its own in everyday tasks and light productivity workloads. Whether browsing the web, streaming videos, or multitasking between applications, the Pro Series Z delivers a smooth and responsive user experience. However, for users with more demanding computational needs, such as video editing or gaming, the Pro Series Z may fall short of expectations.

The Pro Series Z laptop is loaded with an Intel Core i5-1235U processor, soaring to 4.4GHz with Turbo Boost and a 15W TDP. With options for 8GB or 16GB RAM, expandable to 64GB, and Intel UHD graphics with 8GB memory, it ensures seamless multitasking and vivid visuals. The 512GB M.2 SATA SSD, extendable to 1TB, offers ample storage. Engage in crisp video calls with the 2MP webcam, while dual-driver speakers with Dolby Atmos support immerse you in audio brilliance.

Verdict

The Zebronics Pro Series Z Laptop emerges as a commendable offering in the mid-range segment, combining solid build quality with impressive audio capabilities. While it may not cater to power users seeking bleeding-edge performance, its affordability and Dolby Atmos support make it an enticing option for students, casual users, and multimedia enthusiasts. With its sleek design, vibrant display, and immersive audio experience, the Pro Series Z showcases Zebronics’ commitment to delivering innovative and value-packed solutions to its discerning customers.

Rating

⭐⭐⭐

OnePlus 12 vs OnePlus 12R: What fits your Pocket

Deciding between the OnePlus 12 and the OnePlus 12R can be challenging. Both phones are powerful, but the question is, which one is the perfect match for you? Fear not, as we have got you covered. We’ll go into the key differences between these two smartphones so you can confidently decide.

DESIGN

The moment you hold the phone, you’ll notice that the OnePlus 12R is lighter than the OnePlus 12, weighing nearly 13 grams less. Not only that, but the camera bump on the OnePlus 12 is slightly bigger and thicker than the OnePlus 12R. However, the OnePlus 12’s Flowy Emerald design looks more premium than the OnePlus 12R’s Cool Blue design. Overall, the OnePlus 12 has a more high-end feel compared to the OnePlus 12R.

DISPLAY

Both phones displays are similar, but the OnePlus 12 has a slightly larger and crisper display than the OnePlus 12R. What’s more, the OnePlus 12 has a smoother 120Hz refresh rate, which is perfect for gamers and content creators. Meanwhile, the OnePlus 12R offers a respectable 90Hz refresh rate, ensuring a generally fluid experience. If you love watching content on your phone, the viewing experience is much better on the OnePlus 12.

PROCESSOR

Both phones are fast, but the OnePlus 12’s Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 processor is slightly faster than the OnePlus 12R’s Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 processor. Although there is no noticeable difference in day-to-day activities, the OnePlus 12 is faster on paper. Additionally, the OnePlus 12 comes with up to 16GB of RAM and a 512GB storage option, while the OnePlus 12R only has a maximum of 16GB of RAM and a 256GB storage option.

CAMERA

The OnePlus 12 is known for its impressive camera capabilities. It features a 50MP primary camera, a 64MP periscope lens with 3x optical zoom, and a 48MP macro camera, making for a more versatile triple-lens setup co-developed with Hasselblad. In contrast, the OnePlus 12R has a 50MP primary sensor, an 8MP ultra-wide lens, and a 2MP macro sensor. The OnePlus 12 can zoom up to 120x, while the OnePlus 12R only goes up to 10x. However, if you love taking selfies, the OnePlus 12 can capture better photos with its 32MP sensor. In contrast, the OnePlus 12R can only take pictures with a 16MP sensor.

BATTERY & CHARGING:

Both phones have large batteries, but the 12R has a slightly larger capacity. However, the 12 boasts faster 80W wired charging, which allows you to quickly recharge your phone compared to the 65W charging of the 12R. The OnePlus 12 can also be charged wirelessly. It can charge any wireless charging-enabled device like an iPhone, while the OnePlus 12R can only be charged through a cable.

PRICING

The OnePlus 12R has a significantly lower price tag than the OnePlus 12, making it a tempting budget option. However, remember that a lower price often means trade-offs.

VERDICT

Ultimately, the decision comes down to your priorities. If you value cutting-edge performance, top-tier cameras, and the fastest charging, the OnePlus 12 is the way to go. However, if you’re on a budget and can live with slight performance and camera downgrades, the OnePlus 12R delivers excellent value for money.