Samsung unveiled a new smartphone in their affordable Galaxy lineup – the M14 5G, which comes in three colours– Icy Silver, Berry Blue and Smoky Teal. I usually have low expectations for entry-level smartphones, but the Galaxy M14 5G exceeded my expectations. The M14 5G delivers a complete smartphone experience, but can it compete with its rivals? Let’s check it out.
Display:
The Samsung Galaxy M14 5G features a 6.6-inch PLS LCD panel with FHD+ resolution, protected by Gorilla Glass 5. The display supports a smooth 90 Hz refresh rate, allowing smooth scrolling between screens. The display is bright, with natural colours and good detail. However, the viewing angles are mediocre, and it doesn’t have HDR certification.
Design:
The Samsung Galaxy M14 5G continues the premium look trend of Samsung smartphones with a teardrop notch and a glossy rear panel finish. The camera module design and the circular ring-like modules for the three rear cameras make it more recognisable as a Samsung device. The phone houses a USB-Type C port, a single speaker, and a 3.5 mm audio jack at the bottom of the phone, while the right side has the SIM tray and power button that doubles as a fingerprint sensor.
Camera:
The Samsung Galaxy M14 5G has a triple camera setup, with a 50MP primary sensor, a 2MP macro sensor, and a 2MP depth sensor. The camera performance is impressive for a budget smartphone, with natural-looking images, good detail, and accurate colour reproduction. The macro sensor does a decent job, but the depth sensor could be better. The front-facing camera is a 13MP sensor that takes decent selfies but struggles in low light.
Performance:
The Samsung Galaxy M14 5G is powered by an Exynos 1330 5 nm SoC, making it an unbelievable performance-oriented beast on paper. It’s one of the few smartphones with 5 nm processors under ₹15K. The phone has One UI 4.0 based on Android 13, a clean and minimalistic UI. The phone has 4GB of RAM and 128GB of internal storage, which can be expanded up to 512GB using a microSD card. The phone is fast and snappy, and it handles day-to-day tasks and multitasking with ease. However, the fingerprint sensor can be quite bothersome, as it doesn’t always read fingerprints accurately.
Battery:
The Samsung Galaxy M14 5G comes with a 6000mAh battery that supports 15W fast charging, lasting a day of moderate use. The phone has a USB Type-C port for charging but doesn’t support wireless charging.
Verdict:
The Samsung Galaxy M14 5G is an affordable smartphone that packs a punch. It has 5G connectivity, a 5 nm processor, a smooth 90 Hz refresh rate, and a triple camera setup, making it an excellent choice for a budget smartphone. The camera output is impressive, and the phone is fast and snappy. Overall, the Samsung Galaxy M14 5G is an impressive smartphone that could revolutionise the sub-₹15,000 smartphone market.
What is your criteria when it comes to buying a pair of TWS? For me, it will always be the comfort and sound quality. Over the years I’ve used a number of wireless earbuds that are barely comfortable to wear for an extended period of time while giving an optimum sound experience. Thus, my scepticism while trying out the latest Nothing Ear (2) was soaring high. Nothing’s new addition to its product lineup surely leaves an amazing first impression thanks to its futuristic looks but there’s more to everything than what meets the eye. So, how good is Nothing Ear (2)? let’s find out –
Design
The design arena is where Nothing Ear (2) marks its elegance. However, the design is ‘nothing’ to get excited about as it is heavily borrowed from the first iteration of the TWS with minor tweaks here and there. There is an addition of a tiny metal plate for pressure-sensitive controls along with the ‘Ear (2)’ branding which is new for this iteration. Besides that, the looks remain unchanged. The futuristic aesthetic coupled with a plain white form factor makes the Ear (2) stand out from its competitors in the design aspect.
While the design of the buds is top-notch, they do not tend to stick around in your ears during extended hours of music streaming or binge-watching. I had to plug the buds in from time to time while watching films as they would simply pop out which prompted me to not even risk working out while wearing them. The earbuds come with IP54 dust and water resistance which is an upgrade from the previous IPX4-rated Ear (1). The earbuds case is not any different from the first generation except for a slightly smaller form factor.
Audio and ANC
The most important aspect of any TWS is how good they sound. Companies often get lost in the sauce of delivering visually appealing earbuds at the cost of losing out on sound quality. Nothing Ear (2) does not fall into that trap and only gets better from the previous iteration. The previous Nothing Ear TWS featured powerful bass but lacked mids and treble which resulted in a muffled sound experience. However, Nothing Ear (2) strikes a beautiful balance between the three bringing in a much improved sound experience. Ear (2) does not obsess with high bass and delivers clear mids and highs making up for an overall enhanced listening experience. It features LDHC 5.0 which is refreshing to see in midrange earbuds.
The ANC and EQ settings sit tight in the NothingX application which offers a number of personalization options to the user. My favourite feature of Nothing Ear (2) has to be its Personalised ANC option which calibrates the level of ANC based on the user’s hearing sensitivity. The app offers a hearing test for users and fine-tunes the sound profile of the earbuds based on the test. During my testing, the sound experience did get better once I switched to personalised ANC.
The noise cancellation features here are not beyond anything other earbuds offer at this price range. It is pretty much a standard ANC experience which neither overwhelms nor disappoints.
Performance
At its core, Nothing Ear (2) comes off as capable everyday listening earbuds. I wouldn’t recommend using them during extensive physical activities as they tend to fall off easily even if you’ve got an ‘Ear Tip Fit Test’ done through the NothingX app. The music experience is well-rounded here and the earbuds do a fantastic job of operating the highs, lows, and mids of any given track. They support hi-res audio with only a limited bunch of Android devices. The call quality is amazing here. However, one gripe with the earbuds has to be their battery life. Nothing Ear (2) does not come with an impressive battery performance as they lose out on a big chunk of power within just two hours of usage with ANC turned on. While the charging case offers an additional 18-20 hours of battery life with ANC turned on, it is still underwhelming.
Verdict
Nothing Ear (2) build upon a solid foundation laid out by its predecessor and excels where Nothing Ear (1) lacked plenty. The balanced sound quality coupled with futuristic looks make up for a solid overall package for your audio needs. If your smartphone device comes with Hi-res audio support then the deal becomes a little sweeter, however the same cannot be said for an universal experience with the Nothing Ear (2). Ultimately, Nothing Ear (2) is a balanced upgrade which can be considered for your audio needs.
Driving – A Thrilling Experience of Power, Agility, and Performance in Goa (Hill Top) Vagator.
Overview:
The Maruti Suzuki Fronx is not just any ordinary compact SUV car. Its booster jet engine in the 1.0 Litre engines, smart hybrid technology, and impressive features promise an exciting driving experience. We recently took the car on the street of Goa for a spin and and much more, and it left us thoroughly impressed. As we set off on our adventure, the first thing that caught our attention was the Fronx’s manoeuvrability. Thanks to its great turning radius of 4.9 meters, navigating tight city streets and crowded parking lots was a breeze, well not just that we put the car to its best test by taking it on a rough off track as well. The Fronx’s wheelbase of 2520mm further added to its stability and agility, allowing us to take sharp turns confidently. Well not it, the Fronx was put to test by taking it to a challenging experience created by Maruti Suzuki in Goa. The hilltop drags race track awaited us, and we were eager to see the Fronx’s capabilities.
As we pressed the accelerator, the 1.0-litre K10C Booster Turbo Jet engine roared to life, delivering an impressive 100 PS power and 143.7 Nm of torque. The Fronx swiftly accelerated, effortlessly conquering the straight stretches of the drag race track. The power and performance of the Fronx were genuinely exhilarating, and we were left impressed with its quick acceleration and smooth gear shifts. Next up was the hill assist challenge. The Fronx’s ground clearance of 190mm came in handy as we tackled the steep hill slopes of the hill. The hill assist feature ensured the car maintained its position on the incline, giving us the confidence to take on the challenge without hesitation. The Fronx’s powerful engine and advanced technology made climbing up the hill a breeze, showcasing its capabilities as a versatile and capable car for challenging terrains. But the excitement didn’t end there. We were in for another thrilling experience with the drifting challenge. The Fronx’s responsive steering and agile handling made drifting around the corners a delightful experience. The car hugged the curves with precision, and the grip provided by the tires was impressive. The Fronx’s stability and control during high-speed manoeuvres left us with a sense of confidence and thrill.
Power & Terrain Capabilities:
Maruti Suzuki is one of the leading car manufacturers in India, I can bet that you or someone from your family would have definitely owned a Maruti car in this lifetime, since its reliability and confidence to won one cannot go wrong. With a rich legacy of producing reliable and efficient vehicles, Maruti Suzuki has earned the trust and loyalty of Indian consumers. The latest addition to their line-up is the eagerly anticipated Maruti Suzuki Fronx (the name brings a cheeky smile, doesn’t it), a compact car yet to be launched for the masses in India in April. What sets the Fronx apart is its 1.0-litre K10C Booster Turbo Jet engine producing 100 PS with 143.7 Nm of torque, as well as the 1.2-litre K12N Dual Booster Turbo Jet engine, both equipped with Smart Hybrid System with Ideal Start and Stop technology, making it a car to watch out for in this segment.
Both engines in the Maruti Suzuki Fronx are equipped with a Smart Hybrid System that features Ideal Start and Stop technology. This system helps Enhance the car’s fuel efficiency by automatically stopping the engine during idle times, such as at traffic signals, and restarting it when the accelerator is pressed. This reduces emissions, making the Fronx an environmentally friendly choice.
In addition to its powerful engines and smart hybrid technology, Fronx boasts a host of other features that make it a compelling choice for Indian car buyers. The compact car sleek and modern design that will turn heads on the road. The front end features a bold grille with silver cladding underline, sharp Cube shaped LED headlights, and stylish 16 inch alloy wheels ‘that add to its sporty appeal. The cabin is designed to provide a comfortable and convenient driving experience, with ample space for passengers and advanced features such as a 9 inch touchscreen infotainment system, , and steering-mounted controls for added convenience and lastly the heads up display with turn by turn navigation.
Safety first and the car has 6 dual airbags, ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) with EBD (Electronic Brakeforce Distribution), ISOFIX child seat anchors, and a 360 degree rear-view camera for enhanced safety during driving and parking with a lot of precision marking.Though the camera quality could have been better.
Exteriors – The Maruti Suzuki Fronx: A Stylish and Distinctive Exterior Design
The exterior design of the Maruti Suzuki Fronx is a head-turner, combining elements of its elder sibling, the Grand Vitara on one side and Baleno on the other with unique and modern touches on its front face. The Fronx exudes a sense of style and sophistication that sets it apart from the crowd, making it a standout choice in the compact car segment with Hyundai’s Venue or be it the Tata Punch or the Nexon (Non EV). The face of the Fronx bears a striking resemblance to the Grand Vitara the elder brother, with a bold and aggressive stance. The triple Cube style LED headlights with integrated daytime running lights (DRLs) add a touch of modernity to the design along with the Triangular Cube style LED fog lamps also adds that extra sweet touch, while the chrome slab that runs across along with the grille adds a touch of premium-ness. The muscular open bonnet lines and sculpted bumper give the Fronx a sporty and dynamic look, hinting at its performance capabilities. Moving along the sides, the Fronx’s design takes a distinctive turn. The sloping roofline gives it a coupe-like appearance, adding a touch of elegance and uniqueness to the car along with the block cladding with the chrome makes it truly stand out.
The sharp character lines along the sides add a sense of dynamism, while the stylish 16 inch alloy wheels enhance the overall aesthetics. The rear of the Fronx is where it truly stands out. The LED band that spans from one end to the other is a distinctive design element that catches the eye immediately. It not only adds a futuristic touch to the car but also serves as a signature feature that sets the Fronx apart from its competitors. The sloping roofline extends to the rear, giving it a sleek and sporty look. The overall design of the Maruti Suzuki Fronx is a perfect blend of sportiness, sophistication, and modernity.
Interior – Tech & Advance Safety Feature of Fronx:
Step Inside the car and one will get confused weather it’s the Baleno or the new addition The Fronx.One of the first things that caught our attention was the signature HEARTECT platform, a signature design philosophy of Maruti Suzuki. This platform not only ensures enhanced safety and structural rigidity but also provides ample space for the passengers, making the cabin feel more spacious and airier.
Speaking of safety, the Fronx takes it to the next level with its array of advanced safety features. The 1.0-litre engine variant has six airbags, including dual front airbags, front-seat side airbags, and curtain airbags, providing comprehensive protection to all occupants. The ESP (Electronic Stability Program) with Hill-hold assist and roll-over mitigation adds an extra layer of safety by preventing skidding and providing stability during challenging driving conditions. The Fronx also boasts advanced braking technology with ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) and EBD (Electronic Brakeforce Distribution) along with Brake Assist, ensuring efficient braking performance and reducing the risk of skidding. The infotainment system features a 9-inch touchscreen display with intelligent connectivity. Another swanky-looking heads-up display that provides turn-by-turn navigation. Another convenient feature is the wireless charging pad, which allows cord-free charging compatible smartphones, reducing clutter and keeping the cabin organized, though C type charging in the front is missing.The surround sense, powered by ARKAMYS, provides an immersive audio experience, enhan
cing the entertainment system’s audio quality. The Suzuki Connect system, with over 40 intelligent features, can be accessed via a smartphone, smartwatch, or even through Alexa connectivity, allowing for seamless technology integration into the driving experience.
The comfort of the passengers is also well taken care of in the Fronx. The plush seats provide ample support, ensuring a comfortable ride even on long journeys. The cabin offers ample legroom and headroom for all passengers, making it a comfortable space to spend time in.
Verdict:
Driving the fronx in the city is definitely a good option since it’s an essay to move car with an impeccable 4.9m of turning radius. Still, it all boils down to its price. Maruti Suzuki has to keep that in check since the Fronx is competing against the Hyundai Venue, which is a very decent compact SUV, also competing against the Nissan Magnite and also Tata Punch and lastly, Nexon, Things that I personally loved about the Fronx was, it indeed has a good ground clearance of 190mm and has features that you would expect in a era of technology, but what takes away the dull monotony is the heads-up display with turn- by turn navigation, which adds the cherry on top. I personally did not relish the driving thrill, but it’s a pretty capable compact SUV if its price is at a good variable in its segment coz the rivals have a lot to offer compared to what is served on the buffet of this all new Fronx. Lastly, it’s a very capable off-roader while we took the car to a test laid out by Maruti team in scorching heat at the hill top (Vagator), the challenge that lets you explore the true capabilities of the car and proudly I had topped teh charts with the timing amongst all the journalists who had come:-) The boot space is small so its not meant for long commuting and for city driving , it has ticked all the boxes expect the price which is yet to be announced.
Pros: Design (Exterior), Comforting seats, Heads up display
Dislike: Less power (Lack of Punch), No side curtains, No Sun roof.
What makes me excited about OnePlus? Well, definitely their audio products. Over the last couple of years, the brand has been making records in the audio market and has become one of the most loved brands in the mid-range segment.
I’ve been fortunate enough to experience almost every audio product OnePlus has launched since 2022. Be it OnePlus Nord Buds, OnePlus Bullets Wireless Z2, or OnePlus Buds Pro 2, almost every product from the brand has entertained my soul whenever I put them on-ear or in-ear.
Within a short span, OnePlus has carved a niche for itself in the TWS segment and being a fanboy of the OnePlus Nord Buds, I was very excited when I got my hands on the OnePlus Nord Buds 2. Let’s get in the groove and see what the newbie in the house offers!
Design
Lookwise, there are no significant changes in the design of the buds, but when it comes to the case, it’s tiny compared to the 1st gen Nord Buds and has a dotted dust-like texture on it. The brand must have avoided working on the design, as the main focus was what to update on the insides.
The pill-shaped matte-grey charging case will feel uncomfortable in a trouser pocket, but the price of the buds will suit most pockets. The touch controls on the stem, tap to play or pause music, double tap for the next track or answer/end calls, and triple tap for the previous track.
Sound
The 2nd gen Nord Buds arrives with many updates, especially in terms of sound delivery. The Nord Buds 2 effortlessly deliver on every feature it promises, unlike its predecessor – the Nord Buds, where calls can be glitchy, and distortion is common.
When it comes to sound output, the Nord Buds 2 offers a detailed sound where every vocal or instrumental element reaches its zenith. The 2nd gen buds are backed with a new BassWaveTM algorithm and a 12.4mm driver unit that dynamically enhances your sound for a balanced listening experience.
The buds offer deeper bass along with crisp and clear vocals, giving you that main character energy while listening to your favourite music. In terms of connectivity, they are easy to pair with OnePlus smartphones and iPhones as well.
App
The buds offer an Active Noise Cancellation feature with 25dB depth, but to have it under control, you must download the HeyMelody app. The listening experience they offer with noise cancellation is sharp; be it listening to music or making calls, everything comes to you without audio disturbances.
With the HeyMelody app, you can track the earphones’ battery levels and choose noise control modes – noise cancellation, off, or transparency, to enhance your audio experience. The app also allows you to elevate your audio experience further with four sound modes – Balanced, Bold, Serenade, and Bass.
Battery
The earbuds offer good battery life with active noise cancellation on, and offer you a service for slightly over seven hours on a single charge without putting them back in the case. Once you put them in the case for 15 minutes and they’ll get charged up to 60%, offering 2-3 hours of usage.
Verdict
Overall, the Nord Buds 2 has been enjoyable. The earbuds worked well with various types of audio, and the noise-cancelling feature was quite outstanding. Nevertheless, for the price of Rs 2,999, the OnePlus Nord Buds 2 is a reasonable device to purchase, especially if you’re looking for affordable earbuds.
Right now, if you’re in the market to buy TWS earbuds then you’ll be shocked at the number of options you have on your palette. The wide variety of wireless earbuds ranges from as cheap as 500 to as expensive as 50K. However, when it comes to buying the perfect pair of TWS for people, the 10K to 15K price bracket brings a lot of value. Sure, some might consider it a big price to shell out to listen to music but the value for money aspect remains intact in that segment. Today, we have two capable TWS’ namely the Nothing Ear (2) which cost Rs 9,999 and the Jabra Elite 5 which costs around Rs 12K. So, which one of these two is the best one to go for? Let’s find out!
We’ll be judging these pairs of TWS on three basis – Design and fit, Audio quality, and ultimately the battery life. These three parameters basically cover everything when it comes to wireless earbuds. So let’s jump right into the design quality of the Nothing Ear (2) and the Jabra Elite 5 –
Design
When it comes to visual appeal, Nothing Ear (2) wins by a mile here. It features a futuristic look similar to its predecessor Nothing Ear (1). While on the other end, the Jabra Elite 5 remains low-key visually. The Elite 5 does not stand out and can be easily passed off as any other TWS available in the market. Whereas, Nothing Ear (2) comes with a distinctive design making it one of the best-looking earbuds in 2023 already.
However, the aesthetics come with a price as Nothing Ear (2) only comes with an IP54 rating for the buds while the Elite 5 sport an IP55 rating. Where the Ear (2) excels in having pressure-sensitive controls on its stick whereas the Elite 5 uses physical buttons. The cases of the two earbuds are also widely different from one another with the Elite 5 having a simple flip-top case whereas the Nothing Ear (2) has a stylish white case which screams premium. Ultimately, Nothing Ear (2) wins in the design segment.
Audio
Audio playback and ANC levels are subjective matters but what we see with these earbuds is a stark difference with one of the two being superior. Jabra is a brand which specializes predominantly in audio equipment, thus it is really easy to guess which earbuds win in this segment.
The Jabra Elite 5 feature a flat sound out of the box, and the audio is clear with no bass exaggeration which was refreshing to hear at a time when companies just want to mess your ears up with heavy bass-sounding earbuds. On the other hand, Nothing Ear (2) falls into the trap of playing exaggerated sounds at the price of losing out on finer details. Sure, they are miles ahead of the Nothing Ear (1) which lacked all sorts of detail leading to muffled sound. But something felt missing with the sound quality of the Ear (2).
Both earbuds come with app support designed to enhance your hearing experience. While Ear (2) comes with the NothingX app, the Elite 5s come with Sound+. Both applications offer an extensive customization option for the earbuds based on your preference but the general ANC experience with both of them was pretty much underwhelming. When it comes to audio quality, the Jabra Elite 5 clearly wins.
Battery
Nothing Ear (2) doesn’t improve upon the battery life of its predecessor. Using the earbuds for an extended period of time was pretty much underwhelming with the ANC turned on, the picture was completely different with the ANC turned off. At a stretch, Nothing Ear (2) works for around 4 hours with ANC turned on and about 22.5 hours with the case. On the flip side, it was almost like I couldn’t kill the Jabra Elite 5s even when I wanted to. The Elite 5 comes with 7 hours of battery life with the ANC turned on which is more than anyone expects from their TWS. Ultimately, Jabra Elite 5 wins in the battery arena.
Verdict
The only aspect where Nothing Ear (2) excels in comparison to Jabra Elite 5 is the design and aesthetics. When it comes to sound performance and battery life, the Jabra Elite 5 are a clear winner. At an additional cost of Rs 2K, you get a priceless bump in performance with the Jabra Elite 5.
The importance of air purifiers in today’s time cannot be underestimated. If you live in a metropolitan city like Delhi or Mumbai, you know air pollution is one of the biggest problems right now which needs to be curbed. Individuals do not have any control over the air pollution outside their homes, but they sure can manage the air quality in indoor settings like their homes or offices. Thus air purifiers are rapidly becoming a necessary buy for many across the country and the globe. So, how good does the Electrolux Air Purifier PA91-406DG fair in terms of performance? Let’s find out
Design: Cylindrical Charm
An air purifier is usually placed in the corner of people’s homes where it minds its business until it’s time to change the filters. The Electrolux Air Purifier, however, is not just any other air purifier. It comes with a design statement that makes it more than just another piece of tech lying around in your living space. It demands attention with its aesthetically pleasing design which is sure to grab some eyeballs. The cylindrical purifier has a 315mm width on a 590mm height factor coupled with a 315mm depth. Each side of the purifier features a rubber handle to carry it around with a four-wheel base designed for easy movement. The top features a spider-web design and also houses a display which consists of power on/off and mode buttons along with important information like AQI and more. It has a slim and stylish look that blends well with any decor, and its touch controls are easy to use and navigate. It also has a relatively quiet operation, even at its highest fan speed, making it suitable for use in bedrooms or living rooms. Overall, the design of the PA91-406DG is a treat to look at.
Performance Beast
One of the most impressive features of the PA91-406DG is its five-stage filtration system. This includes a pre-filter, a carbon filter, a HEPA filter, an ionizer, and a UV light. Each of these filters is designed to capture and eliminate different types of pollutants in the air.
The pre-filter is the first line of defence, capturing larger particles like dust and pet hair. The carbon filter then eliminates odours and harmful chemicals, such as smoke and volatile organic compounds (VOCs). The HEPA filter removes even smaller particles like pollen, pet dander, and mould spores, providing clean and fresh air. The ionizer then releases negatively charged ions into the air, which attach themselves to positively charged particles, making them heavier and easier to capture in the filters. Finally, UV light kills bacteria and viruses that may be present in the air, providing added protection against airborne pathogens.
In addition, the PA91-406DG also has a smart sensor that detects the air quality in your home and adjusts the fan speed accordingly. This means that it can automatically increase or decrease its cleaning power based on the air quality in your home, providing you with a healthier and more comfortable living environment.
The PA91-406DG is also easy to use and maintain. It has a filter replacement indicator that alerts you when it’s time to replace the filters. The filters are also easy to access and replace, making it a simple process to keep your air purifier running efficiently. Furthermore, it has a child lock function, ensuring that children cannot accidentally change the settings or turn off the purifier.
Verdict
The Electrolux Air Purifier PA91-406DG is an air purifier designed for modern homes. It makes its presence felt with its design coupled with good performance without making loud noises like other air purifiers present in the market today.
Every once in a while, you come across a smartphone which is easy to recommend. The newly launched OnePlus Nord CE 3 Lite 5G is one of those cases. It looks like OnePlus is continuing its winning streak at least in India with the launch of the 11 and 11R series devices and now with this budget winner. So what exactly works with the OnePlus Nord CE 3 Lite? Pretty much everything, for the prize! Let’s dive in and explore the latest budget offering by OnePlus and why it has the potential to become the next big thing in the Indian market –
Design
The ‘CE’ in the OnePlus lineup stands for ‘Core Edition’ It could be simply written off as a marketing gimmick designed to package a budget device. But the CE aspect in Nord CE 3 Lite shines especially when it comes to the design. As much of the budget devices go, it also comes with a plastic back but the colour scheme here can be called this device’s USP. The variant I am using is the Pastel Lime colour which is aesthetically pleasing to look at. The company says that the vibrancy of nature inspired the new Pastel Lime variant which honestly translates very well in real-time usage of the device. At the front, we have a big 6.72-inch 120Hz FHD+ display which is not AMOLED, making it the only drawback of the Nord CE 3 Lite in my opinion. However, the colour production and overall performance of the LCD screen took me by surprise as it was a treat to look at. Interestingly, the device does not come with a Gorilla Glass at the front but rocks an Asahi Dragontail Star Glass which easily survived a few drops from a nominal height during my testing. The fingerprint sensor here rests on the right side of the device with the left side housing the volume rockers and a hybrid slim slot. The camera design for the new device is also unique in more than just one way. Overall, the design of the OnePlus Nord CE 3 Lite is a winner.
Camera
Now, this is where most budget devices lose their ground. The expectation with cameras in this price category is usually whether the performance is passable. Luckily, the image output for the Nord CE 3 Lite with its 108MP primary lens is beyond just passable. The camera is capable of shooting some crisp images with the exception of a few shots where it misses out on key details of the subject in place. The primary shooter is coupled with a 2MP depth-assist lens and a 2MP macro lens. OnePlus claims that the device is capable of shooting 3x lossless zoom images which is arguable, to say the least. During my testing of the device, a lot of details were missed out while clicking photos on 3x zoom. The selfies here can be clicked with a 16MP shooter which produces average shots. The camera boasts a number of features like AI Scene Enhancement, Slow Motion Video, Dual Video Mode, and much more. Sadly, it cannot shoot videos in 60 frames being restrained to 1080P and 720P video at 30 fps only. Overall, the OnePlus Nord CE 3 Lite brings in a stable camera setup which is reliable. Check out some camera samples below –
Performance
The greatness of the Snapdragon 695 chipset strikes again! If I had a dollar for every time a smartphone manufacturer relied on this chipset for optimum performance in the budget section then I’d be wealthy. The powerful chipset is backed by a 5000 mAh battery which can be juiced up with a 67W SUPERVOOC charger. During my testing, the device would juice up around 80 to 85% in half an hour. The combination of a big battery with fast charging is a treat for people on the go, thus making this device an ideal choice for many. We also get a 3.5mm headphone jack here which produced decent audio quality during long music sessions. The variant I tested came with 8GB of LPDDR4x RAM and 256GB storage. It runs on OxygenOS 13.1 which promises a smooth gaming experience. However, one does not truly think of gaming graphics extensive games on a budget device like this. Still, the OnePlus Nord CE 3 Lite holds its ground during extensive gaming sessions without heating up noticeably. Overall, the performance of the OnePlus Nord CE 3 Lite is smooth and commendable.
Verdict
If you’re looking to get into the OnePlus ecosystem without having to shell out the premium midrange pricing of the OnePlus 11 then this is definitely the device for you. It comes with good performance and an above-average camera system making it a complete package.
Samsung’s Galaxy S series is the top-tier smartphone offering competing with the best smartphone market leaders. Each year, this series has refined its offerings, and this time, it’s the S23 series matching the year of launch numerics. Launch impressions aside, I have been using the Galaxy S23 twins, the S23 and S23+, as my daily drivers for over a month and here are my impressions on living with Samsung’s flagship series.
Premium and sturdy design
This year, Samsung bought the Galaxy S23 Ultra design for the rest of its siblings. It’s a neat design to begin with and a welcome change from the camera island on other phones. The most significant difference between the Galaxy S23 and S23+ is their size and battery life. Everything else remains the same. The S23 has taken a few drops with ease in my usage, and the new Gorilla Glass Victus 2 protection is absolutely on point. Polished metal edges are great for holding the phone and inspire confidence, albeit being a literal fingerprint magnet. Overall build has shown little to no signs of heavy use throughout rigorous testing on flights, destinations and work runs.
When it comes to phones, size matters!
A smartphone is something we carry as our tech pokemon. For large-screen lovers, gaming, multimedia and insane battery life make sense on the Galaxy S23+, and many mistakenly believe it to be the Galaxy S23 Ultra thanks to the sheer size. The Galaxy S23, on the other hand, is a moderately sized 6.1-inch phone, and both these phones have slim symmetrical bezels making the design neat from front to back. I preferred the S23 as my primary and the S23+ as my secondary (mostly gaming/multimedia) smartphone, and the experience was nothing but the peak of current-era smartphone performance. With an improved 3900mAh battery on the S23, the battery life coupled with powerful yet efficient hardware is significantly better than the S22.
Display prowess
Samsung is one of the pioneers of display technology. Both these phones get super bright and dim without any noticeable shift in colour saturation, balance or contrast. Under direct sunlight, the Galaxy S23 series shines with maximum brightness and viewing in any condition was never a problem. In fact, these displays could be categorised as top-tier in their price range. HDR content, high-resolution videos, adaptive S-AMOLED goodness and crisp touch response make these displays a charm to use daily. Both these phones get 120Hz adaptive refresh rate displays with peak brightness similar to the Galaxy S23 Ultra at 1750nits!
Performance – Finally, they cured the Achilles’ heel!
Samsung Galaxy S series always had an Achilles heel, the processor. This was addressed in last year’s S22 series, but gen 2 is usually always better than gen 1. The made-for-galaxy Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 is a game-changer for the Samsung S23 series. Most flagship processors tend to heat, throttle and consume more battery, but the tables have turned this year. The custom-made (read overclocked) Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 finally brings a beautiful balance of performance and efficiency. Couple that with LPDDR5 RAM, UFS 3.1 / 4.0 blazing fast memories, and the seamless wireless connectivity of WiFi 6E and BT 5.3 standards; these newer Samsung Galaxy S23 series offer nonstop performance with loudspeakers and impressive displays. Haptic feedback, call quality and mic quality are better than most iPhones and professional mics. Samsung has done wonders with the mic on the S23 series. Add water and dust protection with durable materials and wireless charging with reverse wireless charging capabilities, and the S23 series simply works in every situation.
Vibrant memories
The 50MP OIS primary sensor works wonders in day and night conditions. The 12MP ultra-wide and 10MP 3X telephoto also manage decent colour accuracy similar to the primary sensor. The selfie camera is an autofocus 12MP wide angle, and all the sensors are capable of shooting at 4K, while the main sensor can do 8K 30FPS! The Galaxy S23 series has serious improvements in the end results despite almost equivalent hardware as last year, thanks to the improved SoC. 8K and 4K videos maintain frames throughout with no time limits. Memories are captured on point with great details and Samsung level saturation, pleasing most eyes. The camera performance is so good you could keep your mirrorless camera at home for your next travel.
One UI, many updates
Out of the box, the Galaxy S23 and S23+ run Android 13 based on One UI. There is some bloatware, but the memory management is excellent. Apps run flawlessly in the background, and I was surprised when I paused a game in the evening a day before, used the phone for an entire work day and went back to the game, only to find it paused and managed brilliantly by the S23+. The software is dense and filled with customisations, from colour palettes to unique edge panels that house split-screen apps in an instance, always-on display, and many more. Samsung also includes Galaxy stores for adding more customisations and themes and allows you to change fonts; personalisation is available in plenty. Over just a couple of weeks, my review units got four security and software updates.
Flagship justice
Samsung has improved the Galaxy S23 series to become a mature flagship performer, unlike the S series of the past. Over a month of use, the updates have only improved my experience with these flagship siblings. The improved battery life on the newer series with improved hardware has polished the Samsung Galaxy S23 and S23+ experience. Samsung promises four major android updates and five years of security updates. This market has stiff competition, but there is barely a no-compromise smartphone. These are undoubtedly the ones.
Samsung has been striking the right chords lately with the launch of its much anticipated S23 series which brought the best of Android to users around the world. Be it the Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 or the competitive cameras, there are no boxes the S23 series doesn’t tick effectively. However, as we come down the Samsung chain of devices things start to get a little diversified when it comes to performance, design and much more. This is where the new Samsung A series comes into the picture with two of its new devices the Samsung A54 and A34. While these devices belong to the A series, they’re considerably different from one another perhaps even catering to two different consumer categories.
We have been testing the waters with these two devices for a while now and here is what we think about the Samsung A54 5G and A34 5G –
Starting off with A54 5G
While this device is smaller than the A34 at 6’4 inches it packs more power with Samsung’s 5nm Exynos processor as compared to A34’s MediaTek Dimensity 1080. Talking about the design, the highlight of this phone’s aesthetic appeal has to be its glass panel which is furthermore complimented by the matte-black-like side finish for the black variant. It has a hole punch display that inches the phone towards the premium-looking Samsung devices. And the eye candy factor only enhances furthermore when the device is turned on and we have a look at that display. It flaunts a massive 5000 mAh battery which can be juiced up with 25W charging support, however, you do not get a charging brick in the box and get a type-C to type-C cable.
It features a beautiful Super AMOLED display at full HD+ that is a treat to watch content on. There is no beating Samsung when it comes to displays and the company carries its legacy with flying colours. The display comes with HDR10+ certification as one would expect and delivers punchy colours and an immersive experience. The device comes with an IP67 rating making it resistant to water and dust considerably. Talking about the cameras, we’ve got a triple camera setup with a 50MP OIS primary lens coupled with 12MP and 5MP lenses for ultrawide and macro shots. On the front, we have a 32MP selfie camera. Overall, the camera setup here neither underwhelms nor overwhelms. It is a pretty standard setup capable of clicking some usable shots. Check out some of the camera samples of the A54 below –
Besides the standard pack and parcel of the device, let’s talk about what I think about this new offering by Samsung. The device is pretty much a standard affair when it comes to performance. It does heat up often and more than the A34 at times keeping true to the Exynos fashion. However, no lags were witnessed during my testing of the device. While do not see straight-up ads on the A54, it is definitely loaded with a bunch of bloat apps that can thankfully be removed. It has a 5000 mAh battery that can support only 25W battery charging leading to longer charging times. The device is expected to be placed in the 35-45K price category which puts it in the premium-midrange category where currently the OnePlus 11R stands tall. However, Samsung A54’s classy design, display, and reliable performance will surely attract many towards the device. Both the A54 and A34 come with an under-display fingerprint sensor which is not snappy but is definitely reliable.
Now, on to the second new A series device launched by Samsung, the A34.
A controversial opinion but the A34 feels like a better proposition for the average user out there. Talking about the specifications, the A34 comes with a larger 6.6-inch AMOLED FHD+ display. It doesn’t have the premium feeling glass panel like the A54 but the plastic back is no less aesthetically pleasing. It’s equipped with Dimensity 1080 and while the chipset falls short in the geek bench arena when compared to the A54 but does not come with the heating issues witnessed in the latter device. The A34 comes with an iP67 rating making it dust and waterproof. It sports a similar 5000 mAh battery and 25W wired charging support. Similar to the A54, the A34 also comes with a triple camera set up however, the primary lens here is a 48MP OIS camera tagged along with 8MP and 5MP lenses. The selfie lens also sees a downgrade to 13MP. Check out some of the camera samples from the A34 below –
The one and only deciding factor for me between the A54 and A34 is that notch. The Samsung A34 while expectedly priced in the 30-35K range, comes with an outdated waterdrop notch. There is a lot to love in both the A54 and A34 devices but unfortunately, their competitors offer a lot at the same price point which cannot be ignored. In conclusion, Samsung has basically delivered two standard devices with standard performances that deliver just above the average! While the devices stand in the same A-series lineup, they’re vastly different from each other allowing users to have a wide range of choices.
So should you buy the new galaxy A54 or A34? The answer is rather subjective. If you’re looking for a Samsung phone that is not in the premium price range like the S23 series then the A series is definitely one for you to go for.
What happens when consumers in a country are well caught up with tech and understanding the nitty-gritty of smartphone devices? You get smartphone companies fighting each other in offering the best specifications at a competitive price. Ultimately, it’s the end-buyer who benefits from the tech giants competing in the market. The OnePlus 11 and 11R are shining examples of similar phenomena and trickling it down to the midrange to budget section we see a bigger plethora of choices that confuse us.
This is where this new offering by POCO, The POCO X5 5G comes into the picture. Entering at an oversaturated price point between the 15 to 25K range, the POCO X5 5G only further confuses the buyers even more. But that’s what we’re here for! We have been using the POCO X5 5G for a day and here are my first impressions of the device!
Display
The POCO X5 5G features a vivid 6’67-inch FHD+ super AMOLED display which gives users an immersive experience. The display produces some punchy colours without straining the eyes during longer-watching sessions. It features what POCO calls a sunlight display which features high brightness. The 2400 x 1080 FHD+ display gets pretty bright at 1200 nits. It features a 120Hz of refresh rate which gives it that smooth hyperrealistic feel. Overall the display is eye candy!
Design
The back design is pretty much similar to the staple POCO design with its branding up top. It’s a plastic back panel that does not scream premium but can be protected using the in-box transparent cover. It features a 3.5mm headphone jack on top and a USB-C type port at the bottom and the standard volume rockers and lock screen buttons on the side. It features a side-mounted fingerprint sensor that is snappy. It is a lightweight device weighing just 189 Grams and 7.8mm in thickness.
Performance and battery
When it comes to midrange performance, the Snapdragon 695 is a no-brainer chip for companies to go to. This 7nm chipset has proven its prowess in several midrange devices and shines once again in the POCO X5 5G. As the model name suggests, it is a 5G device consisting of 7 5G bands which are more than enough for the current scenario of 5G availability. The X5 I am using is an 8GB/256GB variant out of which 36GB is occupied by the system. The battery here is 5000mAh which can be juiced up with a 33W charger provided in the box. During my testing, the device juiced up from 33% to 100% in about an hour and fifteen mins which is not bad. It features LPDDR4X RAM and UFS 2.2 storage which is pretty standard for a midrange device.
Camera
The POCO X5 5G comes with a triple camera setup consisting of a 48MP primary lens coupled with an 8MP ultra-wide camera and a 2MP macro camera. The selfie camera is clocked at 13MP. Here are some camera samples –
Conclusion
The Poco X5 5G is a capable device that ticks many boxes and does so effectively. The Snapdragon 695 coupled with a smooth 120Hz display and a capable camera setup makes this device an easy choice for many midrange consumers out there. At 20,999 for the 8/256Gb variant, the POCO X5 5G is one of the best options in the market right now.
