The WD_BLACK SN850X 2TB NVMe SSD has been praised for its performance and features. We conducted a thorough test of the product and presented a detailed review.
DESIGN & BUILD
The WD_BLACK SN850X NVMe SSD is currently available with an optional heatsink, but the one we received already had a built-in heatsink. This thick heatsink will help maintain optimal performance by effectively dissipating heat. This design is particularly attractive for users who want to install the SSD inside a personal computer with a professional and minimalist look.
PERFORMANCE & SPEED
The WD Black SN850X is a Gen 4 solid-state drive that utilizes the high-speed PCIe 4.0 interface. This SSD is widely recognized for its outstanding performance, boasting impressive sequential read speeds of up to 7300 MBps and sequential write speeds of up to 6600 MBps. The drive’s exceptional speed makes it particularly beneficial for tasks that require rapid data transfer, such as gaming and other high-bandwidth applications. Additionally, the drive’s high performance and reliability will be a good choice among professionals who require fast and dependable storage solutions. Overall, the WD Black SN850X is an excellent choice for anyone looking for a top-performing SSD that can handle even the most demanding workloads.
DURABILITY & SUPPORT
The SN850X is an impressive piece of technology that you can rely on. It comes with a 5-year limited warranty, which ensures that you’re protected against any potential manufacturing defects or malfunctions during the first five years of ownership. Additionally, this device has an Endurance of up to 2400TBW, which means that you can write up to 2400 terabytes of data onto it before it reaches the end of its lifespan. This level of endurance is highly competitive in its class, making it an excellent choice if you’re looking for a reliable and long-lasting device.
VERDICT
The WD_BLACK SN850X 2TB NVMe SSD is a robust choice for gamers and professionals seeking top-tier storage solutions. Its performance is near the top of its category, and it offers a thick heatsink for heat dissipation. While it is a bit expensive, its speed and reliability could justify the investment for users who require top-tier performance from their storage devices.
OnePlus Nord CE4 is a mid-range smartphone created by OnePlus to attract new users to their ecosystem. It is equipped with midrange-level specifications such as the Snapdragon 7 Gen 3 platform, a stunning design, and a beautiful display. The phone is priced at ₹24,999 and it remains to be seen if it will be the best mid-range smartphone. Let’s explore its features and find out.
DESIGN
The Nord CE4 features a flat design and lightweight build, making it comfortable to hold and easy to use with one hand. The front features a center-positioned punch-hole cutout for the selfie shooter. The display is a 6.7-inch FHD+ Fluid AMOLED panel with a Narrow bezel.
Turning to the back, the Nord CE4 sports a sizeable oval-shaped camera module housing dual camera sensors and an LED flash. The Celadon Marble colour option is striking and catches the eye with its distinct, marble-like texture on the back panel. It features a beautiful blend of green and white shades that create a visual depth, giving it a unique appearance. The finish is smooth to the touch, providing a comfortable grip and a premium feel to the device.
The button placement is straightforward, with the volume rocker and power button on the device’s right side. Sporting OnePlus’s signature sleek and modern design, the device boasts a slim profile and lightweight build, making it comfortable to hold and use.
PERFORMANCE
The OnePlus Nord CE4 is an attractive option in the mid-range smartphone market due to its blend of performance, design, and affordability. Its 6.7-inch Fluid AMOLED display provides vibrant colors and deep blacks, which are enhanced by a smooth 120Hz refresh rate, offering a seamless experience for multimedia and gaming. The device is equipped with the Qualcomm Snapdragon 7 Gen 3 mobile chipset and 8GB of RAM, which provides smooth day-to-day performance and light multitasking capabilities. This hardware combination ensures that the device can handle various tasks efficiently, such as browsing the web, using productivity apps, streaming videos, and playing games. The phone runs OxygenOS 14, which is based on the latest version of Android 14. The software includes many useful customizations, features, and optimizations that enhance the user experience.
Gaming on the OnePlus Nord CE4 is quite satisfactory, thanks to the Snapdragon 7 Gen 3 processor. The gaming performance is commendable, and high-end games such as BGMI and Call of Duty run at an average of 30-40 FPS. Other casual games run smoothly with good graphics, and with a 120Hz refresh rate, the gaming experience is quite enjoyable.
The device has an impressive battery life that can last an entire day due to its sizable 5500mAh battery. After using the device for the past week, I found that it has a good battery life and can last for a day on a single charge with moderate usage such as browsing the internet, watching reels and YouTube videos, and playing casual games while traveling. Additionally, the device comes with 100W fast charging support which is useful when you’re on the go and need to quickly top up your device before heading out.
Camera
The OnePlus Nord CE 4 boasts a triple-camera setup, with the primary camera being a 50-megapixel sensor. In well-lit conditions, the primary camera captures impressive detail and vibrant colours. The images are generally sharp and have a good dynamic range, making them suitable for social media sharing and casual photography. However, the performance tends to drop slightly in low light conditions, with some noise creeping into the images. Night mode helps alleviate this somewhat, but it may not match up to the low-light performance of more premium smartphones. Complementing the primary sensor is an 8MP ultra-wide camera. The ultra-wide angle lens expands the field of view, allowing users to capture more of the scene in a single frame. It performs admirably in well-lit conditions, offering decent detail and minimal distortion towards the edges of the frame. However, in low-light situations, the performance suffers, with images exhibiting more noise and less detail than the primary sensor. Portrait shots taken with this sensor generally turn out well, with accurate subject detection and pleasing background blur. However, like the other sensors, its performance diminishes in low light.
3X Zoom shot
Ultrawide
On the front, the OnePlus Nord CE4 features a 16MP selfie camera in a punch-hole cutout. Selfies taken with this camera are sharp and detailed, with natural skin tones. The camera app offers users various beauty modes and filters to enhance their selfies further. In good lighting conditions, selfies turn out impressive, but like the rear cameras, low-light performance is mediocre.
The OnePlus Nord CE 4 supports video recording up to 4K resolution at 30fps. The video quality is decent, with good stabilization and detail in well-lit environments. However, the lack of optical image stabilization can produce shaky footage, especially when shooting handheld. The dynamic range could also be better, with highlights sometimes getting blown out in high-contrast scenes.
Verdict
The OnePlus Nord CE4 offers a compelling package with its blend of affordability, decent camera performance, and overall features. While it may not be the best phone on the market, it stands out as a strong contender in the mid-range segment. Its capable processor, smooth software experience, and respectable camera system make it an excellent choice for those seeking a balance between performance and value. However, whether it’s the best phone depends on your needs and priorities. If you prioritize camera performance above all else, other options may be worth considering. Nonetheless, for users looking for a well-rounded smartphone that doesn’t break the bank, the OnePlus Nord CE4 deserves serious consideration.
The Tecno Pova 6 Pro 5G is a mid-range smartphone with impressive features, such as a 120Hz AMOLED display, a powerful 108-megapixel primary camera, and a huge 6,000mAh battery with fast charging. The most striking feature is the back panel, which was inspired by a motherboard. The new LED design features over 200 LEDs and 100+ customization options. However, before making a purchase, it’s important to consider a few trade-offs.
DESIGN
The Tecno Pova 6 Pro 5G is a smartphone that strikes a balance between having a powerful battery and a slim design, while also incorporating some eye-catching elements. Despite having a massive 6,000mAh battery, the phone has an impressively slim profile of just 7.88mm. This makes it surprisingly comfortable to hold in one hand, especially when compared to other phones with similar battery capacities. Also, at just 195g, the phone is lightweight and still looks good.
Instead of using the typical glass or plain plastic back design, Tecno has opted for a textured design that looks cool. The phone is available in Comet Green or Meteorite Grey, and the most significant feature apart from the back panel is the customizable LED strip that runs alongside the rear camera module. This strip can light up notifications, charging status, or even while gaming, adding a touch of personalization and a light show. However, it may be seen as gimmicky to some users while others may find it appealing.
The front of the phone sports a large 6.78-inch AMOLED display with a punch-hole cutout for the front-facing camera. The bezels are relatively thin, offering an excellent screen-to-body ratio for an immersive viewing experience. The rear camera module houses the triple-lens setup and the LED strip. It protrudes slightly from the back but shouldn’t cause significant wobbling when placed on a flat surface. Surprisingly, the Pova 6 Pro has a 3.5mm headphone jack, which is rare to see on a smartphone. There is even a dedicated microSD card slot for storage expansion.
The phone has an IP53 rating, which means it’s resistant to dust and can withstand light splashes. However, it’s not fully waterproof, so it’s best to avoid using it near pools or in heavy rain.
PERFORMANCE
The Tecno Pova 6 Pro 5G is equipped with a MediaTek Dimensity 6080 processor, which works in conjunction with 8GB or 12GB of RAM, depending on the model you choose. This allows for effortless handling of daily activities such as web browsing, social media, and video streaming. App loading times are reasonable, and multitasking is seamless. The base model offers a generous 256GB of storage, which should suffice for most users, but can be further expanded with a microSD card if needed.
Tecno’s HiOS 14 skin, which is layered on top of Android 14, may take some time to get used to for users who are accustomed to standard Android. Although it offers some additional features, it can feel bloated at times. Upgrades may take longer compared to established brands. It even has its own branded store and apps, along with other pre-installed apps that can make the device UI appear cluttered. Fortunately, some of the pre-installed apps can be uninstalled, although it can be a tedious task for a new user.
The phone can handle most casual games like Asphalt 9 without any problems. However, more demanding games like BGMI or Call of Duty Warzone with high graphics settings may experience some frame drops or stutters. If you’re a hardcore gamer, there may be better options available with more powerful processors.
Although benchmarks are not the only indication of processing power, they provide a general idea of a phone’s performance. The Dimensity 6080 scores modestly in benchmarks compared to the latest flagship processors. However, it is comfortably situated within the mid-range segment, offering similar performance to other phones in its price range.
After using the phone for a week, it manages heat dissipation well during everyday tasks. However, under heavy loads like gaming or prolonged video editing using VN editor, the phone may get warm to the touch.
CAMERA
The Tecno Pova 6 Pro 5G is a smartphone equipped with a triple-lens rear camera system. The high-resolution primary sensor is the standout feature with an impressive 108-megapixel. This means that photos taken with this phone should have exceptional detail, particularly in well-lit environments. The primary sensor is accompanied by two 2-megapixel sensors, one for depth information and the other with an unspecified purpose. These additional sensors are typically found in budget phones and do not add much to image quality.
In terms of daylight performance, the 108-megapixel sensor can capture detailed photos with accurate color reproduction, although there may be slight processing issues that result in a loss of sharpness in some areas. As with most mid-range phones, low-light performance can be a challenge. Photos may appear noisy and lacking in detail. Tecno’s night mode can help somewhat, but it is not as effective as high-end phones. The phone can record videos up to 1440p resolution at 30fps, which is sufficient for basic recording.
Zoom shot
Selfie
The 32MP front-facing camera can capture decent selfies with clear details and accurate colors in well-lit environments. However, in low-light situations, the camera may struggle to produce good quality images, resulting in grainy or blurry photos.
VERDICT
The Tecno Pova 6 Pro 5G is an excellent choice for those who are on a budget and want a phone with a long-lasting battery, a smooth display, and a unique techie design. The camera system is good, and the performance is sufficient for most everyday tasks. However, the slightly outdated processor prevent it from being an outstanding phone.
The ViewSonic VX2779-HD-PRO is a 27-inch Full HD (1920×1080) monitor designed for gamers. It has several features highly desired by gamers, including a high refresh rate of 180Hz, a rapid 1ms MPRT response time, and compatibility with AMD FreeSync technology. These features make it a strong contender for gamers on a budget who want smooth, tear-free visuals.
WHAT WE LIKE
The VX2779-HD-PRO monitor has several impressive features, making it an excellent choice for gaming, creative work, and entertainment. Firstly, it has a high refresh rate of 180Hz, making visuals appear silky smooth, especially in fast-paced games like Vanquish or Apex Legends. The 1ms MPRT response time ensures sharp visuals during intense action sequences by minimizing ghosting and blurring.
Secondly, this monitor utilizes an IPS panel, offering wide viewing angles and good colour accuracy with 104% sRGB coverage. Therefore, it provides vibrant and accurate colours and a great viewing experience regardless of the activity.
The monitor also supports HDR10, which may not be as impressive as high-end displays but still offers improved contrast and colour depth compared to standard monitors.
Additionally, the AMD FreeSync technology synchronizes the monitor’s refresh rate with compatible AMD graphics cards, eliminating screen tearing and stuttering for a more fluid gaming experience.
Lastly, it has two HDMI 2.0 ports and a DisplayPort 1.2, allowing flexibility when connecting different devices. The monitor also includes features like a Blue Light Filter and Flicker-Free technology to reduce eye strain during extended gaming sessions.
DOWNSIDE
The first downside is that the monitor only offers Full HD resolution, which may need more for some users. Those who prefer sharper visuals should consider a higher resolution, such as 1440p, especially if they are going with a 27-inch display.
Regarding HDR performance, it’s worth noting that this monitor has some limitations compared to high-end options. While it supports HDR, the peak brightness is lower than you might find on more expensive displays. Additionally, this monitor doesn’t have local dimming technology, which can help to improve contrast and overall picture quality when displaying HDR content.
It’s worth noting that the speakers built into monitors are often not as powerful as standalone speakers. This holds true for the monitor you are using as well. To get the most out of your audio experience, it’s recommended that you use headphones or external speakers.
VERDICT
The ViewSonic VX2779-HD-PRO is a great choice for budget-conscious gamers who want a responsive and smooth gaming monitor. It has a high refresh rate, quick response time and is compatible with AMD FreeSync, making it perfect for competitive games. However, consider other options if you prioritize high resolution, premium design, or exceptional HDR performance.
Samsung Galaxy A35 and A55 are part of Samsung’s popular A-series lineup, known for offering impressive features at a competitive price. Here’s a detailed review of both smartphones.
DESIGN
The Galaxy A35 and A55 smartphones are undoubtedly eye-catching and share a strikingly similar appearance. Both devices have a sleek, modern design with a glossy glass finish on the back. The phones are crafted from high-quality and durable materials that offer a premium feel when held in the hand. Because of the sharp edges on the sides, it is difficult to hold longer. Interestingly, the design of these phones bears a striking resemblance to the flagship Samsung Galaxy S24. The A35 has an aluminium finish that gives it a more classic and timeless look, while the A55 boasts a brushed metallic finish that adds a touch of luxury and refinement to its design.
Both phones are equipped with stunning 6.6-inch Super AMOLED displays for an immersive viewing experience that transports you to another world of colours. The high 120Hz refresh rate of the displays and the peak brightness of 1000 nits ensure smooth scrolling, and the phone can be used under direct sunlight without struggling to watch the content. The 1080 x 2340 pixel resolution of the displays ensures that everything on the screen looks razor-sharp and incredibly clear, so you won’t have to blink or strain your eyes to read text or view images.
PERFORMANCE
The Galaxy A35 is powered by the Samsung Exynos 1380 chipset and offers 5G connectivity. It performs well for everyday tasks, but it could be a powerhouse. Benchmarks suggest that it’s an average performer. On the other hand, the Galaxy A55 uses the Exynos 1480 chipset, which is a step up from the A35. The A55 has a maximum RAM storage of 12GB, while the A35 is limited to a maximum of 8GB. However, both devices can add up to 8GB of virtual RAM.
Both phones should handle browsing, social media, and streaming videos without issues. Lag or stuttering was not seen on any of these phones during regular day-to-day use. For gaming, both phones can handle casual games, but demanding titles might experience graphical limitations. Lower the settings on both the A35 and A55 for a smooth gaming experience. The A35 might exhibit some heating issues during extended gaming sessions or intensive tasks, while the A55 manages heat slightly better.
Regarding software, both phones benefit from Samsung’s commitment to software updates. They are eligible for four years of major Android OS upgrades and five years of security patches, ensuring a longer lifespan and access to the latest features. Samsung also has one of the cleanest UIs, called One UI, which is available on both the Galaxy A35 and A55. The UI has a clean and simple look and is easy to navigate, making it my favourite UI on Android devices. Apart from the UI, both phones come with Samsung’s exclusive services that enhance the overall functionality and security of the devices. The SmartThings app is one of the most noteworthy features that allow users to manage and control various smart devices in their homes, such as thermostats, lights, and other appliances. Another significant feature of these phones is the Knox security system, which encrypts and secures all data on the devices, making it almost impossible for unauthorized users to access sensitive information. This feature is especially important for individuals who regularly store personal and confidential data on their phones.
Additionally, the wallet app is an excellent feature for users with multiple credit cards as it can store most of them, including UPI. This feature makes it easy to tap and pay at point-of-sale (PoS) terminals without having to carry around multiple cards. The wallet app also offers an added layer of security by requiring a password or biometric authentication before any payment can be made.
The Galaxy A35 and A55 have 5,000mAh batteries, providing the potential for all-day use on a single charge. Light to moderate users can stretch the battery to two days. However, heavy users with constant gaming or streaming might need to top up before the end of the day. Both phones support 25W fast charging, but the charger isn’t included in the box. This adds an extra cost if you still need a compatible charger.
We conducted a thorough stress test to compare the battery performance of Galaxy A35 and A55 while streaming 4K content. After rigorous testing, we found that both phones exhibited similar results. Even after continuous streaming of 4K content for more than 30 minutes, the battery consumption was only 10%. This means that you can watch an entire movie without worrying about running out of battery on either device.
CAMERA
The Camera setup of the A35 and A55 is similar; both have three cameras. While the primary camera sensor of both devices is a 50-megapixel sensor with Optical Image Stabilization(OIS), the A55 has a bigger 12-megapixel ultrawide sensor compared to an 8-megapixel ultrawide sensor on the A35. The third lens is a macro lens; both have a 5-megapixel sensor.
A35
A55
Taking pictures on both devices in bright daylight gives excellent photos. We took multiple apps on both phones, and the quality and clarity of the pictures look similar. The A35’s processing keeps things natural, while the A55 might offer slightly punchier colours. In low-light situations, both phones struggle with noise, providing grainy images. Switching to Night mode can help brighten things up but at the cost of some detail.
A35 ultrawide
A55 ultrawide
Neither phone boasts a dedicated telephoto lens, so zooming in reduces quality. The A55’s 12-megapixel ultrawide sensor has the potential for more detail and a wider field of view than the A35’s 8-megapixel sensor. Regardless of using the ultrawide sensor, both devices took average wide-angle shots. It struggles in low light, but both devices take decent pictures of inadequate lighting. Both phones have the same 5-megapixel macro sensor, suitable for capturing close-up details of flowers, insects, or tiny objects.
A35
A55
The A35 has a 13-megapixel front-facing camera for selfies, while the A55 has a 32-megapixel higher-resolution sensor. Regardless, both should capture decent selfies in good lighting.
A35
A55
In video recording, both phones offer 4K video recording at 30fps on the rear camera. Both have similar sensors, so both take nearly identical quality videos. However, recording at 4K 30fps, the Galaxy A35 doesn’t offer wide-angle recording, while the Galaxy A35 does show ultra-wide and zoom buttons on the Galaxy A55. The front-facing camera on both can record in 4K as well.
VERDICT
The mid-range smartphone market has many players, and Samsung’s latest offerings, the Galaxy A35 and A55, have entered the market with a range of impressive features at an affordable price. While the devices have a price difference of approximately ₹12000, they both offer a capable camera system, long-lasting battery, and smooth performance for everyday tasks. Although there are some differences in the processor, selfie and ultrawide camera sensor, both models offer excellent value for money in the mid-range segment.
Samsung has recently launched the Galaxy XCover7, a smartphone specifically designed for enterprise customers in India. This is the first time that Samsung has released an enterprise-exclusive smartphone for the Indian market, which is also manufactured in India. Unlike other smartphones, the Galaxy XCover7 is built to withstand extreme conditions and aims to ease the lives of professionals.
DESIGN
The Samsung Galaxy XCover7 has a rugged design, which makes it appear like it comes with a pre-installed rugged case out-of-the-box. The device looks bulky, but its ruggedness enhances its durability. The device is 10 cm thick and weighs 240 grams, making it sturdy for enterprise-level usage.
Samsung designed this device with a removable back cover, making it easy to quickly swap out the battery in the field without interruptions. Removing the back cover reveals both the removable battery and SIM slot. The back body is made of plastic, which may feel flimsy when removed, but the device feels sturdy when attached to the device. The removable cover reveals a 4050 mAh removable battery, which also accommodates the NFC antenna for NFC payment or any NFC-enabled software.
The device supports dual SIM, with one physical slot and one eSIM, and also has a slot for a MicroSD memory card. However, the phone’s battery must be removed to access these physical slots. The Galaxy XCover7 has 128GB of storage but can be expanded up to 1TB, providing ample storage space. Samsung added a big customizable functional key named XCover key on the left side of the device, which can be customized within the software. There are two options, a Single Press and Press and Hold option; both are customizable. It acts as a quick shortcut. For example, a single press can be configured to Turn ON the flashlight and a long Press to Turn the Camera ON. This can also be accessible even when the phone is locked, that can be enabled or disabled depending on the need.
The Samsung Galaxy XCover7 is designed to withstand harsh environmental conditions, as it comes with an IP68 dust and water resistance rating. This means that the device is well protected from dust, sand, and water and can survive being submerged in up to 1.5 meters of water for as long as 30 minutes. Additionally, the device has undergone military-grade testing and can withstand drops up to 1.5 meters without getting damaged. Overall, the Galaxy XCover7 is a rugged device that can handle tough situations and environments with ease.
The device has a 6.6-inch display and is reinforced with Corning Gorilla Glass Victus+, a premium glass material known for its exceptional durability and resistance to scratches and cracks. The device can be used without worrying about damaging the screen. However, it’s worth noting that the device’s thick bezel around all sides may be noticeable to some users.
In addition to the Type-C charging port, Samsung has also included POGO Pins on the smartphone, which are used to charge the device with a POGO charging dock, available separately. The Samsung Galaxy XCover7 can be charged with a maximum 15 watt wired charger. Samsung only provides a Type-C charging cable, so adapters need to be purchased separately.
PERFORMANCE
With the enterprise in mind, Samsung has created the Galaxy XCover7, ensuring that it provides adequate performance capabilities without increasing the product cost. The device is equipped with a MediaTek Dimensity 6100+ octa-core processor supported by 6GB of RAM, which enables it to efficiently handle the latest Android 14 operating system and ONE UI. I put the device to the test by running a variety of everyday work related apps such as Mail, Calendars, and social media and performed multitasking. The device performed smoothly without any noticeable lags. The processor’s high clock speed ensures the device can handle multiple tasks simultaneously and switch between them without delay. The 6GB of RAM provides ample memory to keep multiple apps open in the background without affecting the device’s performance.
Not everyone might want to play games on this phone, but it can play any casual game without experiencing lags. However, when it comes to heavy gaming titles like BGMI and Call of Duty, there is a slight frame drop after prolonged gaming. While playing BGMI, I achieved an average of 30 FPS, which is decent for gaming on this phone. It’s worth noting that this phone wasn’t primarily designed for gaming, so these results are expected.
The Galaxy XCover7 is known for its exceptional security features. It comes with Samsung Knox Vault, which stores all security data, such as password patterns and critical information, on separate tamper-resistant hardware. Additionally, the Galaxy XCover7 Enterprise Edition offers a Knox suite subscription for 12 months, providing users with the essential tools to secure, deploy, and manage their devices throughout their lifecycle.
The phone has a 6.6-inch FHD+ LCD display that offers a decent colour and an impressive viewing angle with high resolution. However, its refresh rate is limited to 60Hz, which means that the visual transitions on the screen may not be as smooth as some high-end phones. Moreover, the display’s maximum brightness is just 600 nits, making viewing in bright or under direct sunlight difficult. On the bright side, the phone’s touch response is impressive and accurate, so you can use it conveniently, even with thick gloves or wet hands.
With medium day-to-day usage, the 4050mAh battery of Galaxy XCover7 can keep the phone running for a full day. It can be quickly charged with a maximum 15 Watt fast-charging, which takes nearly 3.5 hours to fully charge the phone up to 100%. The phone has a removable battery, which can be swapped without turning off the smartphone. While connected to the charger, the phone can stay ON for up to 10 seconds, giving the user enough time to quickly change the battery without turning it off.
CAMERA
The Samsung Galaxy XCover7 is a reliable and durable smartphone with a single primary camera and dual LED flash. A 50-megapixel primary camera primarily optimized for multiple barcode/QR code scanning. This feature makes the Galaxy XCover7 an ideal choice for professionals who need to scan codes frequently for their work. The camera also delivers decent image quality, whether you’re taking photos in low-light conditions or bright outdoor environments. Additionally, the smartphone features a 5-megapixel front camera that delivers crystal-clear selfies and video calls.
VERDICT
The Samsung Galaxy XCover7 is a smartphone designed specifically for enterprise-level use, focusing on durability and harsh environments. Its rugged design provides protection from drops, water, and dust, making it an ideal choice for businesses that require a device that can withstand everyday wear and tear. The device also features a removable battery, offering added convenience. With 5G connectivity, the XCover7 allows for faster and seamless communication across India, providing businesses with a reliable method of staying connected. If you are a business owner in need of a smartphone that can handle the demands of daily use, the Samsung Galaxy XCover7 is an excellent option.
The STM Relax and Reawaken Cases are designed to provide complete protection for your iPhone 15 series while offering innovative features for convenience and functionality. These cases are made from high-quality materials such as ABS and silicone, which ensure reliable protection against scratches, drops, and other daily wear and tear. The case has precise cutouts that allow for easy access to ports.
The Relax variant of The Focus Collection incorporates a mesmerizing flowing sand design effect that mimics the natural patterns of sand dunes or the tranquil waves of a tropical beach. It creates a soothing and calming atmosphere, perfect for unwinding after a long day or setting a peaceful ambience for meditation or yoga. The gentle movement of the sand effect provides a subtle visual stimulation that can aid in relaxation and help clear the mind.
The Reawaken variant is cutting-edge technology that is designed to help you achieve a state of heightened focus and concentration. It does so by following the movement of your fingers along its captivating contours, providing you with unique tactile feedback that helps you release your mind from the clutter of daily life. This innovative technology enhances your productivity, creativity, and overall well-being by allowing you to tap into your innate potential and experience a sense of flow like never before.
Furthermore, the lightweight design of the case makes it easy to carry and use your iPhone 15 on the go. The case enhances the overall usability of your device without adding unnecessary bulk, whether you’re texting, taking photos, or watching videos.
In conclusion, the STM Relax and Reawaken Cases for iPhone 15 offer a perfect combination of style, protection, and functionality. This case is a must-have accessory for iPhone 15 owners looking to enhance their device’s look and calm their minds. Whether you’re a busy professional or a casual user, the STM Relax and Reawaken Case delivers on its promise of quality and reliability.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Realme has announced the launch of two new devices – the Realme 12 Pro and Realme 12 Pro Plus. Both devices are the successors of the Realme 11 Pro. Realme is known for its commitment to providing the best technology and stylish design at affordable prices. We recently got our hands on the latest Realme 12 Pro and we’re excited to share our thoughts on it.
DESIGN
Design is one of the appealing features of the Realme 12 Pro series. Like its predecessor, Realme 12 Pro offers the same design but with some design improvements. Realme 12 Pro has a vegan leather finish with a camera module ring in gold colour. A golden line extends from the camera module and divides the panel into two halves, adding an elegant touch. The leather finish at the rear makes the device less slippery. Although it is not prone to fingerprints, it may accumulate visible smudges over time if used with dirty hands. You can easily clean it with a soft cloth. It’s important to keep the phone away from sharp objects like keys as they may damage the leather surface.
Moving to the front panel, the phone features a curved display with slim bezels that offers an immersive viewing experience. The punch-hole cutout on the front houses the selfie camera. The phone has a gold frame, which gives a golden aesthetic to the device.
DISPLAY
The Realme 12 Pro has a stunning 6.7-inch AMOLED curved display with minimal bezels and impressive image quality, making it perfect for watching movies and playing games. The screen brightness is decent, reaching 950 nits, lower than other devices like the OPPO Reno11 Pro. However, it’s still bright enough to use even in direct sunlight. One of the best features of the display is its touch-haptic response. When interacting with the power, back, and menu options, it feels like pressing a physical button and provides gentle vibration or feedback, especially when gesture control is enabled. This adds realism and immersion to the experience. The haptic feedback is particularly impressive when playing high-octane games, as it provides a feel for the impact and responsiveness in your hands.
PERFORMANCE
Realme 12 Pro has impressed with its design and display, but a smartphone’s performance matters in the end. Unlike Realme 11 Pro, Realme 12 Pro shifted towards the Qualcomm processor. The realme 12 Pro has a budget Qualcomm Snapdragon 6 Gen 1 processor, on paper it is a mid-budget processor. Testing the Realme 12 Pro in day-to-day activities, the device performed well in various tasks like watching videos, listening to music, playing games, and using popular messaging and social media apps. Even after one week of usage, there were no noticeable lags or slowdowns in day-to-day usage. The phone did not have any heating issues except when the camera app was open for an extended period.
I had a decent gaming experience on the Realme 12 Pro. The phone remained smooth at standard settings; going to ultra settings gives noticeable lags. In standard settings, I encountered no stutters even after long gaming sessions. In benchmarking, the Realme 12 Pro performed well, achieving a single-core score of 941 and a multi-core score of 2667 on Geekbench 6.
However, the Realme 12 Pro has some drawbacks, and one of them is its software experience. The phone comes with Realme UI 5.0, which has a lot of bloatware that makes the home screen cluttered and confusing. There are pre-loaded apps that are unnecessary and unwanted.
Realme should address the bloatware issue and provide a cleaner, more streamlined software experience that allows users to choose the apps they want instead of bombarding them with not-so-useful apps. The focus should be on providing a better user experience without overwhelming notifications and pre-installed clutter.
BATTERY
The Realme 12 Pro has a 5000mAh battery and comes with a 100W fast charger. To test the battery, I played a 4K HDR video from YouTube. During the test, the phone’s battery went from 28% to 18% in just 22 minutes of playing the video. Surprisingly, the phone was only slightly warm, which is impressive considering the device’s curved display.
In my everyday use, the phone lasted a full day on a single charge with no issues. The included fast charger came in handy, as it was able to refill the battery by approximately 25% in just five minutes of charging. Overall, I’m very satisfied with the Realme 12 Pro’s battery performance.
CAMERA
It was surprising to see that the Realme 12 Pro has a 50-megapixel primary camera sensor, which is lower than the predecessor Realme 11 Pro’s 100-megapixel sensor. However, it’s essential to note that the number of megapixels doesn’t guarantee better picture quality. Despite being a mid-range phone, the Realme 12 Pro’s highlight is its 32-megapixel telephoto sensor. The device also has an 8-megapixel wide-angle lens and a 16-megapixel sensor for selfies.
Let’s discuss the camera’s performance in different scenarios. In good lighting conditions, the Realme 12 Pro takes impressive daylight shots. The images are vibrant, with rich colours and intricate details. You can appreciate the clarity and sharpness, even when zooming in to explore finer textures. Whether you’re taking photos of expansive landscapes or getting close to objects, the camera does an excellent job. For instance, the picture of the bunch of orange flowers showcases vivid and accurate colours, making the image visually captivating.
However, the camera struggles in dimly lit indoor environments. When taken to a restaurant with softer lighting, it had difficulty dealing with the direct lights facing the camera. As a result, some low-light images appeared grainy, especially when using the 20x zoom. In contrast, the camera performs better when there’s ample lighting available. The macro lens, in particular, shines in outdoor settings. The close-up image of the orange flower showcases vibrant colours and intricate details, making it quite impressive.
It’s worth noting that any subject can be zoomed very closely. The phone can capture tiny grain from a Relax case of my iPhone 15. You can achieve good image quality by zooming in on objects, giving you added flexibility to capture close-up shots without relying solely on the macro lens.
The Realme 12 Pro features a 32-megapixel telephoto 2x Optical zoom lens. Although the 2X is optical zoom, it can go up to 20X digital zoom. However, the quality of the picture degrades the more you zoom. My experience with the Zoom mode was underwhelming. However, it is a helpful feature that Realme still packs on a budget smartphone.
Realme 12 Pro 20x
Realme 12 Pro 0.6xRealme 12 Pro 20x
Another issue I encountered is that even when I thought I had captured the image perfectly, it turned out blurry after processing. This was especially noticeable in low-light settings. The camera struggles to maintain sharpness and clarity in challenging lighting conditions.
VERDICT
The Realme 12 Pro is a device that offers a lot to its users. It has a visually stunning design, an immersive display, and reliable performance. The device offers a smooth user experience across various tasks, including multimedia consumption and gaming, without any noticeable lags or slowdowns. The battery life is impressive and can easily last a full day, and the included fast charger adds to the convenience. However, the camera performance of the Realme 12 Pro is a mixed bag. While it excels in capturing vibrant and detailed images in good lighting conditions, it struggles in dimly-lit environments. Additionally, the software experience falls short with Realme UI 5.0, as it is cluttered with bloatware and unwanted notifications, which can affect the overall user experience. Despite these shortcomings, the Realme 12 Pro still manages to impress with its attractive design and reliable performance. It is a solid mid-range option for users looking for a visually appealing device with satisfactory performance.
