PowerA Protection Case for PS Portal review

The PowerA Protection Case for PlayStation Portal is designed to keep your beloved remote player protected from scratches, drops, bolts of lightning…you name it. OK, I was lying about that last one, but this case is a very durable option indeed, and during my two weeks testing it, it’s proved to be a highly reliable carry case — here’s why.

First of all, let’s talk about the case’s exterior. This is a hard case, so it’s not the most flexible or anything, but it’s very resistant to damage of all kinds. When dropping the case, scratching it, throwing it in a bag, it didn’t show any signs of wear whatsoever.

The case’s interior is also well optimized for damage-prevention in a number of key ways. First of all, the inside is molded to your remote player, enabling it to securely slot into place. There’s also a couple of hook-and-loop straps, which keep it fastened when you’re on the go. On top of that, you’ll find a padded screen-protector flap for preventing scratches. There are so many layers of protection here, enabling this model to compete with some of the very best PS5 accessories.

This screen-shielding flap does even more, though. That’s right, it also has a mesh flap on the top side, which is excellent for storing small accessories. I found it very useful for storing cables and wireless earbuds, for instance, making it easy to take plenty of gaming gear on the go. Sure, there’s no room for a headset or anything large, but this case is meant to fall on the more minimalist side.

While some may still find PowerA's case to be on the bulky side — I found the Venom Carry Case for PlayStation Portal to have a more modest footprint — this model is still very portable, and it easily fits in my work bag alongside my laptop, Nintendo Switch 2, and Sony WH-1000XM6.

Something else worth mentioning is the inclusion of a cable passthrough feature. There’s a tab on the underside of the case that you can insert a USB-C cable into and charge up your Portal, even when it’s boxed away. This is very convenient, and I used it to safely charge my system in my bag, with it connected up to a power bank.

Before we wrap up, let’s talk looks. This model is available in either Black or White, and I used the latter variant. This looks incredibly on-brand for the Portal — and indeed the PS5 — retaining that fairly futuristic aesthetic. My only complaint in terms of the look would be the fabric handle, which appears a little cheap in comparison to the rest of the case. But this can be forgiven for a case that only costs $34.99 / £19.99 / AU$49.95.

So, is the PowerA Protection Case for PlayStation Portal worth the money? Absolutely. It’s relatively rugged, it’s well-priced, and it even looks the part. The molded interior and screen-protecting flap keep your remote player safe and secure, and the cable passthrough feature is something you won’t get on every case out there. Therefore, it’s an easy recommendation from me.

PowerA Protection Case for PS Portal review: price & specs

Should I buy the PowerA Protection Case for PS Portal?

Buy it if…

Don’t buy it if…

PowerA Protection Case for PS Portal review: also consider

How I tested the PowerA Protection Case for PS Portal

• Used the case for multiple weeks
• Directly compared against other models
• Tested by a seasoned gaming accessories reviewer

I spent weeks testing the PowerA Protection Case for PlayStation Portal, taking it with me just about everywhere I went throughout the process. While testing, I made sure to try stuffing various accessories in the case and also try out the cable passthrough feature.

To test the case’s durability, I tried dropping it from a controlled height, performed some scratch tests, and reviewed wear and tear after the testing period concluded. I also assessed it against rivals, including the Venom Carry Case for PlayStation Portal, on factors such as robustness and storage space.

More generally, I’ve been reviewing all kinds of gadgets at TechRadar for more than two years. I’ve tested a whole lot of gaming accessories, including cases like the Nintendo Switch 2 All-In-One Carrying Case and screen protectors, such as the Genki Aegis Shield.

• Read TechRadar’s reviews guarantee
• First reviewed: June 2026

Corsair Makr Pro 75 one-minute review

It's difficult to ignore just how big of an impact the custom keyboard community has had on mainstreaming gaming options in the last decade or so.

Jump back in time three, four, or even five years, and the very idea of the Makr Pro 75 would've been inconceivable, certainly in Corsair's product arsenal. Eight layers of sound-dampening, gasket plates, magnetic hot-swappable hall effect switches, the spec sheet is rich and detailed, and would make 21-year-old me, with his first-ever mechanical Cherry MX Red, weep if he saw it 14 years ago.

Just take a look at the switches, they're linear magnetic hall effect, MGX Hyperdrive models (a mouthful, I know). Aside from being hot-swappable, they're pre-lubed, dual-rail designs with a shine-through PBT keycap that actuate at a fully custom-calibrated actuation point of your choosing. If you want to bottom the thing all the way out, you can; if you want it to actuate the instant your finger barely touches the top, it'll do that too.

The build is just on another level, and it shows. What's less enticing, however, is the price. At £220 UK or $250 US at time of writing, it's a serious chunk of cash to lay out, and although the quality is there, there's a good argument to be had as to just whether that's worth it compared to competitor solutions at nearly half the cost.

If you're after a small form factor, 75% keyboard that's more than capable of handling gaming and typing, one of the best gaming keyboards money can buy, while delivering a class that straddles the line between a custom build and an off-the-shelf model, without the faff of getting out the soldering iron, the Makr Pro 75 is well worth considering.

Corsair Makr Pro 75 review: Price & release date

• Almost DIY price, but, y'know, it's built
• Available in the UK, US, and Australia
• Hard to find a prebuilt solution quite like this

Now here's the kicker: Corsair's Makr series is a bit of a three-headed hydra in terms of product stack. It's all built around that custom aftermarket DIY keyboard ethos. You've got the standard Makr 75, where you can customise exactly what parts you want, and Corsair will ship you the bundle to construct yourself. You can have that same bespoke model, but pre-assembled, or grab this more "off-the-shelf"-esque Makr Pro instead.

The latter has colourways, switch-types, backplates, and LCD/Wireless modules, and keycaps, to add at your leisure along the way. The Makr Pro, however, is a single model and a single model only. There's no alternative colours, no keycap variations (bar regional layouts), and well, that's it. That does come with some wins, though, firstly it's the only board that supports hot-swappable magnetic switches (and comes with those MGX options by default), and secondly, it's quite a bit cheaper.

The equivalent Makr line built to spec using minimal components will set you back $265 on Corsair's website, versus the Pro's $250.

Corsair Makr Pro 75 review: Specs

Corsair Makr Pro 75 review: Design

• Outstanding build quality and exceptional sound deadening
• No full-size variant
• Rotary dial looks awesome, and a welcome addition

This is, without a doubt, the heaviest board I've ever had in for review. It weighs a staggering 1.282 KG (or 2.83 lbs), and honestly, it feels like you could club someone to death with it, it's that ridiculous. It's got a fully built custom aluminum housing, and inside of that live eight layers of sound dampening.

Let me take a breath because the list is long. You've got… silicon rubber padding, pad foam PET backing, PU pad foam, socket foam, PET film, IXPE switch foam, transparent PET backing, and PU plate foam, all situated around that hall effect compatible PCB, which is further secured in place, with both a gasket mount solution for the switches, and stabilisation with an FR4 switch plate for even more rigidity. Like, seriously, guys… It's just not good enough. I expect 14 layers on the next one (that's a joke).

I mention that hall effect PCB because it's an important detail here. Although you can swap out the keys, it's only compatible with magnetic switches that can take advantage of the hall effect sensors.

If you've got a slew of old Gateron switches that you just love, you're going to have to grab the Makr 75 instead of this slightly cheaper model (frustrating I know). Albeit that is a niche in a niche.

There's some other customisation options you can add in here, too, if you're looking to bump the price higher. You can get a wireless module to ditch the cables (effectively strapping a 50-hour battery life to the thing with no RGB enabled, although it is worth noting that's a fraction of the time you get compared to the standard mechanical switch variant at 172 hours). And, you can chuck out the lovely rotary dial for a teeny tiny LCD display, for some reason.

One thing I will say. After spending some time with the latest Corsair Galleon 100 SD, the build here is just outstanding by comparison (which is bizarre given it comes from the same company, and the Galleon costs significantly more).

The only downside? No, full-size variant. And I know I know, the ergonomics are better, and proper gamers only use 75% boards. But I'm an old man now, I game just as much as I mash in my credit card details to buy yet another air fryer.

Corsair Makr Pro 75 review: Performance

• Key switches are gorgeous, Hall effect are stunning for typists and gamers alike
• The argument about dampening feels subjective
• iCUE vs Web Hub is a confusing mess

Can we talk about iCUE quickly, because it seriously frustrates me? Now, this is less of an issue with the Makr Pro directly as it's compatible with both iCUE and Corsair's new Web Hub, thing, but, right now, we're in this weird world where we have not one, but three different programs to manage your Corsair umbrella hardware, with a transition over to Web Hub for the newer products.

What's Web Hub? Glad you asked. Effectively, a lightweight replacement for iCUE, built out of a webpage connecting directly to your Corsair hardware, and fully installable as a PWA app on your desktop.

What's the problem then? Not everything supports it, that Galleon 100 SD I mentioned earlier fails to show on iCUE entirely and is only picked up on Web Hub (and the Elgato Stream Deck app…). That's particularly annoying because if you're running Firefox, Web Hub simply won't work.

As I say, thankfully, the Makr Pro 75 is compatible with both, but if this is a sign of things to come, well, I'm a lot less enthusiastic about it. Particularly as we've only had a promise that legacy component support is coming later down the line, but as and when that happens? Who knows.

Software drama aside, overall typing is just a joy. My heavy-handed (read: hench) fingers absolutely love these keycaps and the surprisingly tactile feedback that each gives on full depression is just stunning. It's smooth, clean, and rapid. Actuation is beautifully clean, and the fact that you can adjust them to your absolute preference (again, so my heavy sausage fingers don't accidentally actuate while resting) is a real treat.

An added bonus on that front is FlashTap SOCD Handling, which effectively allows you to decide how your strafe keys behave on accidental keypress. Pressing D, but your finger slips on A, you can have it still move left with A, continue pressing D, or cancel both key presses simultaneously to stop you moving. It's a neat addition, particularly given how sensitive you can make the actuation point.

There has been some criticism around the industry that the sound dampening might be too aggressive, but honestly, I just don't see it. It may well be that your mileage varies depending on how you type. If you're a heavy keypress lubber like I am, you'll be more than at home on this thing.

There's one minor caveat I have on this thing, though, and that's the cost. It ain't cheap, chief. Asus's ROG Strix Scope II RX, for example, currently slides in at nearly half the price of this thing on Amazon, and you get similar performance from it. Pre-lubed optical red linear switches, sound dampening, a (singular) comprehensive software suite, and dare I say a numpad? Is it at the same level as the Makr Pro? No… But it's damn close.

Should I buy the Corsair Makr Pro 75?

Corsair Makr Pro 75 Scorecard

Buy it if…

Don’t buy it if…

Also consider

How I tested the Corsair Makr Pro 75

• Two weeks as my daily driver
• Tested across all types of content (gaming, novel-writing, day-to-day work)
• Used across multiple PCs
• Over a decade of testing PC hardware and 14 years of being keyboard-obsessed

Me and the Makr Pro 75 spent a lovely two weeks together straight. I swapped it out as my daily driver, and used it across both my own digital agency and freelance journalism as well, and leaned on it heavily for everything from hammering out chapters in a novel I'm writing, to long sessions in Total War: Warhammer 3, World of Warcraft as a healer, and dabbling in Cyberpunk 2077 too.

I wanted to ensure it was used across a mix of different applications and games, and thoroughly tested across all genres as well. The keyboard market is no longer targeted solely at young adults and kids, but also to those of us with full-time jobs as well, so ensuring it was capable of a bit of everything was tantamount to this review. I wanted to make certain that it was capable of handling a 2,000-word after-market PC build feature, as it was in a quick three-hour raid sesh.

Alongside the hands-on time, I also dug into the wider keyboard market as well, researching competing boards at and around the Makr Pro 75's price to place its build, switches, and value in proper context. I've spent over a decade testing PC hardware and peripherals, so I've got plenty of experience to draw on, both for how a board this expensive should feel and whether the asking price genuinely adds up.

• Read TechRadar’s reviews guarantee
• First reviewed: June 2026

Razer Huntsman V3 Tenkeyless 8KHz: One-minute review

The Razer Huntsman V3 Tenkeyless 8KHz is one of the brand’s new flagship gaming keyboards. It features analog switches with huge customization potential, designed to meet the exacting requirements of esport professionals.

It has a simple and basic form, although there are few touches that add a little flair. The shiny, brushed top plate and high floating keycaps are sleek, while the bright but subtle RGB lighting adds some much needed color.

It’s also light and compact, but very solid at the same time. The materials feel premium, with the Doubleshot PBT keycaps being the highlight. Some might not like their prominent graining, but to me they’re among the best gaming keyboard caps around in terms of texture.

Razer’s Synapse software has a smorgasbord of options to play around with. There are plenty of rebinding options and performance-related settings, including in-depth Rapid Trigger, Snap Tap, and controller emulation features, to name a few. The app is clear and easy to use, although I did experience a few minor issues with settings failing to take hold at certain points, although these are ultimately fixable.

The optical switches in the Huntsman V3 lack the dampening or clickiness of other boards, and can feel a little harsh at times. This is especially evident when typing, which is also made difficult by the sheer height of the keycaps themselves. Overall, though, they’re still pleasant to use, and the smooth and easy travel of the keys makes them effective when gaming.

The analog performance is also smooth and precise. However, there’s a lack of feel and feedback at the top of each key’s travel. Press further down, though, and you’re met with more resistance, which provides more control when attempting to hit certain actuation points, or when emulating controller sticks and triggers.

With its sub-$200 price point, the Huntsman V3 represents good value considering all that it offers. There are very strong contenders in the analog gaming keyboard space, but the Huntsman V3 acquits itself just well enough to justify its place among them.

Razer Huntsman V3 Tenkeyless 8KHz review: Price and availability

• $169.99 / £169.99 / AU$299.95
• Available now in one color
• Decent price for an analog board

The Razer Huntsman V3 Tenkeyless 8KHz costs $169.99 / £169.99 / AU$299.95 and is available now in black only. The keycaps are removable, but the switches aren’t.

This is a decent price for an analog keyboard, especially one with as many software tweaks as the Huntsman V3 features. The SteelSeries Apex Pro TKL Gen 3, for instance, has a considerably higher list price, although we have seen it with significant discounts lately, bringing it closer in line with the Huntsman V3. The Apex Pro is a truly phenomenal board, with a superior build and performance to that of the Huntsman V3. It doesn’t have as many analog tweaks, though.

For a more budget option, there’s the Turtle Beach Vulcan 2 TKL Pro. Like the Huntsman V3, this also has plenty of analog adjustments and features, including controller emulation. However, I found its analog performance inferior, lacking the same levels of precision and control as the Huntsman V3.

• Value score: 4 / 5

Razer Huntsman V3 Tenkeyless 8KHz review: Specs

Razer Huntsman V3 Tenkeyless 8KHz review: Design and features

• Light and compact board
• Tall floating keycaps
• Wealth of settings in Synapse

The Huntsman V3 has a basic appearance, although a few touches set it apart. The aluminum faceplate has a shiny finish with a brushed effect, which is subtle but may still prove divisive. The prominent floating keycaps lend it a healthy dose of sleek minimalism.

The RGB lighting is reasonably subtle, only shining through the keycap characters, although a small amount does leak between the gaps. It’s quite bright, and there are numerous options for customizing patterns.

It’s quite a light and compact board, but it feels surprisingly solid at the same time. There’s very little flex and all materials feel premium. This includes the Doubleshot PBT keycaps; their prominent graining is satisfying to touch and also helps with traction. Again, though, this mightn’t be to every gamer’s taste, given that many keycaps are super smooth.

While the board itself is quite thin, it actually feels a lot thicker, thanks to the height at which the keycaps float above it, as well as the tallness of the keycaps themselves.

However, the tilt angle provided by the feet does help to make it more comfortable to reach the keys. There are two sets of feet which offer meaningful differences in angle.

You’ll find the USB-C port on the back left of the unit. It’s deeply recessed, which makes it a little more difficult to connect and disconnect, but this small inconvenience is a fair trade-off for the security it provides.

To customize the Huntsman V3, you’ll need to download Razer’s Synapse software. This has an impressive gamut of adjustments. There are plenty of remapping options, including a wealth of Windows and media controls you can assign to keys. You can also assign up to four inputs to a single key, each triggering depending on how far down you press.

Like many modern gaming keyboards, there’s a Snap Tap function, letting you assign priority to a single key when two are pressed simultaneously. There are various options here, with different types of priority to choose from. There’s also a Snap Flex feature, which allows you to bind a second input to a key that triggers when you release it. This can be assigned on up to four different keys.

Then there are the analog settings, which again are very extensive. Aside from being able to adjust the actuation point for each key between 0.1mm and 4mm, there’s also a Rapid Trigger function with independent upstroke and downstroke sliders, each with ranges between 0.1mm and 1mm. You can even enable Continuous Rapid Trigger.

There’s a controller emulation mode, too, allowing you to assign gamepad inputs to your keys. This includes trigger and stick inputs, where you can also adjust their curve profile to set their response and sensitivity to your liking.

Controller inputs are easy to assign, in part thanks to the ability to assign multiple common mappings with a single click. For instance, there’s an option to assign the left stick to the WASD keys. A simple but useful visualizer attends the controller section, showing trigger and stick behaviours in real time with your presses.

Aside from being able to create your own profiles, Synapse features some useful preset profiles, including those designed for certain games. For example, the Racing profile binds gamepad triggers and joysticks to the WASD keys. These profiles can be selected via Fn shortcuts, and there are hotkeys for other performance-related functions, too.

Synapse is clearly laid out and features helpful explanations and tutorials. It’s fast and smooth, although I did experience a few minor bugs. For instance, the keyboard passthrough feature for controller emulation, which allows keys not bound to controller inputs to work as normal, failed to work on occasion. However, a simple replug of the USB cable seemed to remedy the issue.

• Design and features score: 4 / 5

Razer Huntsman V3 Tenkeyless 8KHz review: Performance

• Precise analog response
• Slight harsh and numb keys
• Not great for typing

The keys in the Huntsman V3 are more clicky than thocky, although they feel less sharp than the clickiest switches out there. Their sound is both lower in pitch and quieter than many mechanical models, too.

They don’t have much dampening, which can make the board feel a little harsh at times. This is especially evident when typing — and the act isn’t made any easier by the thick keycaps, their elevated height, and the absence of a dip in the middle row. This combination makes gliding around the keys tricky, and it also causes some discomfort, owing to the angle at which you have to bend your wrists to reach them.

Thankfully, I was more comfortable when gaming in the WASD position. The keys are comfortably spaced, while the space bar and other peripheral keys are easy to reach.

The standout aspect of the Huntsman V3’s performance, though, is its analog response. It’s very precise and sensitive, reacting very well to different levels of pressure, which in turn gives you a broad range of control.

However, this precision is somewhat undermined by the lack of feel in the keys themselves. They don’t provide as much feedback as I would've liked, which can make it a little tricky to dial in the exact amount of pressure to hit certain actuation points or make smooth adjustments when emulating triggers and sticks.

What's more, there’s a small but noticeable amount of wobble to the keys, which means presses don’t feel particularly secure. Thankfully, though, most of the analog issues I’ve outlined only pertain to the top of presses; once you press further down, more resistance is generated from the springs, which allows for much smoother and more granular control.

• Performance score: 3.5 / 5

Should I buy the Razer Huntsman V3 Tenkeyless 8KHz?

Scorecard

Buy it if…

Don't buy it if…

Razer Huntsman V3 Tenkeyless 8KHz review: Also consider

How I tested the Razer Huntsman V3 Tenkeyless 8KHz

• Tested for several days
• Used many features
• Extensive gaming keyboard experience

I tested the Razer Huntsman V3 Tenkeyless 8KHz for several days, during which time I used it for gaming, working, and general use.

I played games such as Subnautica 2, which makes use of the typical first-person keys, from WASD and the number keys to the space bar and control and shift keys. I also played games that allowed me to make use of the Huntsman V3’s controller emulation, such as Assetto Corsa, by using W and S to emulate triggers and A and D in place of the left stick.

I’ve been PC gaming for over a decade, and have used a number of keyboards in that time. I’ve also reviewed a large number of them, including other Razer models.

• Read TechRadar’s reviews guarantee
• First reviewed: June 2026

Corsair Galleon 100 SD one minute review

I still don't quite know what to make of Corsair's Galleon 100 SD gaming keyboard. On the one hand, the ethos of this thing, the switches, the design, the implementation are generally very well thought out, and it's solidly built too.

Sound-dampening is decent, the linear MLX switches are delightful to type on, and the Stream Deck integration on the right-hand panel gives the whole thing a lot more versatility than you first might think.

Whereas before your Stream Deck buttons sat beside your monitor, the Galleon 100 SD brings them within reach, taking up that numpad position instead. That makes it a more natural flow while you're gaming and streaming at the same time.

That's a long-winded way of saying you can actually use all of the Stream Deck's vast utility in-game, finally, without stretching halfway across your desk to do it. Not only can you have all of those macros and keybinds added into the numpad directly, with visual indicators as to what they actually do, but the display element gives you key system stats while you do it.

The bigger issue lies in the absolute bonanza of software you need to get this thing running. The Galleon, by default, requires two separate programs to fully function. Corsair's Web Hub, a PWA interface (or website effectively) that replaces the desktop iCUE app, allowing you to change your lighting, keybinds, polling rate, all with a lightweight web page rather than a full-blown software suite. And then the standalone desktop Stream Deck app, which you need to configure, well, the Stream Deck.

The worst part about that is that the Galleon's not backwards compatible with iCUE directly, and similarly, a lot of the "legacy" Corsair hardware hasn't made its way to the Web Hub either yet (there's a promise it's coming, but nothing confirmed). So, if you're running RGB lighting with some older fans, or a different mouse that isn't supported by Web Hub, you're effectively running iCUE, Web Hub, and the Stream Deck app to keep all of your Corsair products in line, and that just feels messy.

Then there's the price. It isn't cheap, by any measure. Yes, you are technically getting a full Stream Deck in here as well, so there's that to bear in mind, but it's near enough $100 more than the likes of Corsair's Makr Pro line (a markedly better keyboard if your sole aim is gaming).

It's a good board, and if you're not phased by the ludicrous software setup and the price tag, you'll get along with it just fine. Arguably for many, that expanded Stream Deck utility might make it one of the best gaming keyboards you could buy. But you really need to be able to justify what you gain from the Stream Deck itself. If you hesitate even for a moment on that thought, you might be better off looking elsewhere.

Corsair Galleon 100 SD review: Price & availability

• Priced astonishingly high for a standard mechanical keyboard
• Available globally today
• Only worth it if the Stream Deck is for you

Perhaps the biggest talking point of the Galleon 100 SD is that price tag. $350 and £310 (around AU$500) for a keyboard of this magnitude is a tough pill to swallow, particularly because at its bare bones, the keyboard itself doesn't really outclass boards a third of the cost.

Like yes, the MLX switches are lush to type on, pre-lubed, and there's plenty of sound dampening going on here, but those aren't exactly Corsair exclusives, and you can find a number of full-size boards from other manufacturers that feature exactly that, for a lot less.

Now, yes, of course, you do get that Stream Deck baked into the side here, sacrificing a full numpad for it (although technically that is a function that's available with a quick profile swap), but if you've already got a Stream Deck in any form, it's quite hard to justify the extra cost.

• Value: 3/5

Corsair Galleon 100 SD review: Specs

Corsair Galleon 100 SD review: Design

• Lush aluminum frame, dense and filled with sound-dampening
• Stream Deck replacing the numpad is wildly cool
• Twin dials is highly divisive, and the lighting is average

From a pure design perspective, there's a lot here that generally leans positive. The aluminum body is clean, solid, and it feels durable. There's little, if any, flex in the shell, and the sound dampening is doing its work nicely.

There's no errant pings or metallic rattlings going on here at all. Certainly not compared to the 2022 generation of K70 keyboards, that's a fact. And without a doubt, Corsair's keyboard design and build quality has come a long way in the last few years; that's very easy to see. Still, it's not quite as solid as the Makr line, nor does it feel as heavy.

Styling on the whole is a bit of a mixed bag. The aluminum outer shell mimics most of Corsair's product line right now with soft bevelled edges and this relatively satin-esque finish.

The top LED bar is a bit gauche. You've got this quite bizarre, triangular three-point pattern running along the length of it as a plastic strip with the Corsair logo embedded in the middle, which, if I'm honest, looks quite cheap. It would've been far better suited just to have a singular Corsair logo, and that's it. In fact, that's something that the Makr line does well.

I'm not entirely sold on the twin dial setup either. There's just something about it that looks a bit diabolical, and I can't quite place it. This is a bit of a hangover from the Stream Deck Plus, and I get the utility here being able to configure two dials to two different operations (particularly useful for video scrubbing, or creative work), but visually it's a bit eugh.

There's also a few other bells and whistles here, too. Namely, for some reason (despite there being a fully dedicated Stream Deck with 12 buttons, media controls, and twin dials over to the right) a fully embedded set of function keys here too. I mean, sure, why not? It's not like you're losing anything by having them.

Keycaps are clean, too. The font face is professional and sensible, more subdued than some of the more custom units out there, and the PBT touch is comfortable enough to type on, that's for sure. Corsair's also included two USB Type-C passthroughs on this thing as well.

Corsair Galleon 100 SD review: Performance

• MLX Pulse switches are smooth and satisfying, if over-damped.
• Stream Deck's finally usable in-game properly
• The three-app software stack drags the whole experience down

So the good news is, typing and gaming on the Galleon 100 is a real treat. It's smooth to use on those linear MLX switches feel buttery under touch. It's not quite as pleasant an experience for me as on the Makr Pro, or Asus ROG Strix Scope II RX, but it's still top quality. If you like a linear switch, and you're not quite as heavy-handed as I am, bottoming out every key strike, you'll love this thing.

The Stream Deck, too, is immensely satisfying to use. Once you've got it set up and it's swapping into profiles on game load, with your keybinds and macros set, it's a real treat. I've already mentioned, but having the keys within reach like that makes it far more useful than leaning across your desk to whack a macro real fast. Star Citizen in particular, and well, any simulator, rife with keybinds, benefits a ton.

I will say, the feel of those switches, though, sucks. Certainly, when you have the direct comparison of a mechanical switch right next to them. That's particularly jarring if you just need to use a numpad quickly to enter a pin, or your phone number. It's mentally very jarring. Almost like you're going back in time for a second, using a membrane board.

Then there's the software stack. Oh boy. You effectively need two programs to run this board efficiently. The Stream Deck app, to configure your deck profiles and each key, along with the display. That's local, sits on your desktop. Then, the Web Hub to configure the Corsair side of the keyboard. That's web-based (although you can install it on desktop via the "Save and Share -> Install page as an app" feature).

Web Hub is effectively a lighter-weight replacement for iCUE. You access it via URL. Configure your settings once, and it disappears into the ether. The problem with it is that it's not entirely backwards compatible with the rest of Corsair's legacy hardware. So, older products still need to be configured and set up via iCUE on your desktop. What's worse is that the Galleon isn't compatible with iCUE, so if you are embedded in the Corsair ecosystem, you're then left in a position where you have effectively three apps to control your products.

There's a more pressing issue, too, in that Web Hub isn't supported by all browsers currently. In short, it uses two browser APIs to access the keyboard directly via USB: WebHID, and WebUSB. Firefox doesn't natively support those APIs as it (rightly) views it as a harmful fingerprint/security attack vector that exposes your USB hardware unnecessarily to web pages. So it's not even a case of "Mozilla will catch up eventually", the company has taken a philosophical stance against the implementation of it, and it doesn't have anyone working on it.

Similarly, Brave, although Chromium-based, will only allow device configuration through Web Hub with permission enabled, and doesn't allow you to update the firmware at all. If you want to do any of that, you're effectively forced to install Chrome, Edge, or Opera.

It's a tricky one to justify. Particularly as iCUE itself was already stripped down in the last few years anyway. Currently, it only installs modules based on what you actually need and what products you have plugged in, rather than the entire back catalog.

Theoretically, yes, you could install a second browser specifically just for Web Hub. Then install that as a PWA app, but this just feels so hard to justify from a user experience perspective. It'd be far better just to add compatibility into iCUE directly, and it's hard to see why Corsair didn't.

Should I buy the Corsair Galleon 100 SD?

Buy it if…

Don’t buy it if…

Also consider

How I tested the Corsair Galleon 100 SD

• Tested over three weeks as my daily driver
• Used for gaming, professional writing, and creative work
• Full Stream Deck integration tested
• Compared to competitors and my back catalogue, with 11 years of experience in the tech field

I lived with the Galleon 100 SD for about three weeks, running it as my main board. I tested it across all manner of different tasks, from creative agency work to freelance journalism and, of course, gaming sessions in Total War: Warhammer 3 and World of Warcraft as well.

During my time with it, it was the Stream Deck that I focused on most; after all, keyboards are very similar, and Corsair's got a name for making good ones, but implementing a Stream Deck into the side of it and swapping out the numpad? Had to be put through its paces.

I benchmarked it against a selection of modern-day keyboards I have in-house, and compared it to the wider market at the time of testing, including the Makr Pro 75, which I'd just finished up reviewing as well. I've spent over a decade testing PC hardware and peripherals, so I've got plenty of knowledge to draw on when it comes to mechanical keebs and the plucky old Stream Deck, too.

• Read TechRadar’s reviews guarantee
• First reviewed: June 2026

HyperX Origins 2 1800: One-minute review

The HyperX Origins 2 1800 is a full-size gaming keyboard with mechanical switches and plenty of hardware customizations available.

It adopts a fairly typical gaming keyboard aesthetic, although the translucent body does at least offer something a little different. This also allows the RGB lighting to shine through a little more than usual. And shine it does — this is probably the brightest RGB I’ve ever seen in a keyboard, and it helps the board to stand out among its peers.

Build quality is above average, with materials feeling smooth. However, unlike the best gaming keyboard constructions around, the body is made of plastic rather than aluminum. There’s also a fair amount of flex to it.

On the other hand, it’s very light as a result, despite its thickness. It’s also easy to replace the body if you want to personalize your Origins 2, thanks to the easy-access screws underneath.

A board this thick often poses an ergonomic problem, but given the generous tilt angle of the Origins 2, I found it comfortable to use, even with the feet stowed and the lack of wrist support. The dip in the middle row allowed for natural finger positioning, too.

There is software available for the Origins 2, although it’s disappointingly basic. It does have a generous selection of remapping options, but there are no advanced or pro-level tweaks available here.

Elite gamers will be more impressed with the performance of the Origins 2, though. The stock Linear switches are very snappy and responsive, with just enough dampening and travel to impart satisfying feedback.

The stock keycaps are also comfortable, with their prominent indents providing a secure WASD position. The space bar is also pleasing to hit, thanks to its slightly rounded top, and the aforementioned tilt of the entire board prevents you from hitting its edge. However, the sheer height of the keycaps can make typing difficult.

There’s no denying that the Origins 2 commands a premium price tag, but it is a premium gaming keyboard. The mechanical switches and hardware customizations are top-tier, and it still costs less than some of its rivals. The software is disappointing and typing is difficult with those stock keycaps, but for those who want a pure mechanical experience, the Origins 2 is hard to beat at this price.

HyperX Origins 2 1800 review: Price and availability

• $139.99 / £119.99 (about AU$200)
• Available now in one colorway
• Reasonable price for a mechanical keyboard

The HyperX Origins 2 1800 costs $139.99 / £119.99 (about AU$200) and is available now in black only. The keycaps, switches, and body can all be swapped out.

This is certainly an expensive board, especially one that’s wired. However, given the high-performing mechanical switches, build quality, and hot swapping capabilities, it’s not exactly surprising.

What’s more, other high-end boards are similarly expensive, if not more so. The Razer BlackWidow V4 Pro, for instance, has a slightly higher list price, although we have seen it on offer for considerably less than this. When I tested the wireless variant of this board, the Razer BlackWidow V4 Pro 75%, I found it to be among the best mechanical keyboards in terms of feel, performance, and build quality.

For a more budget mechanical option, you could try the Gamakay TK75 V2. This is considerably cheaper than the Origins 2, yet it still offers great key feel and respectable build quality.

• Value score: 4 / 5

HyperX Origins 2 1800 review: Specs

HyperX Origins 2 1800 review: Design and features

• Hardware personalization options
• Thick but lightweight
• Premium feel as plastic constructions go

Aesthetically, the Origins 2 is hard to distinguish from many gaming keyboards. HyperX may call the color black but in reality it’s more of a dark grey, which departs somewhat from the sector’s obsidian dominance, albeit not by much.

Its translucent nature, though, is more original. What’s more, it allows the RGB backlighting to shine through. This lighting is brighter than many other instances I’ve seen, and really helps to liven up appearances. The keycap characters are fully transparent too, meaning these illuminate as well, which isn’t always a given on RGB keyboards.

The Origins 2 feels like a premium board. The base material, despite being plastic rather than metal, is of a high standard and the two panels are solidly put together. The unit is quite easy to flex by hand, but not to a concerning degree. This plastic also means the Origins 2 isn’t as heavy as it looks, given how thick it is. It’s also relatively easy to change the housing, requiring just a small crosshead screwdriver (not included) to disassemble and swap with another.

Its thickness isn’t much of a problem from an ergonomic perspective. There’s no wrist support included, but the forward tilt of the board makes for a comfortable hand position. The dip in the middle row, typical of many keyboards, also helps in this regard. There are folding feet that angle the board towards the user even more, but the difference isn’t as great as other examples.

The USB-C cable that comes with the Origins 2 is braided and quite light. This makes it easy to maneuver, although it’s not quite as light as those that come with the best gaming mice. Thankfully, drag isn’t exactly an issue when it comes to keyboards. Also, the cable seems a little stiffer and hardwearing than mice ones.

The latest version of HyperX’s Ngenuity software is required to customize the Origins 2. However, I couldn’t get this to work on my main gaming PC for some reason, with the app refusing to open once installed. Fortunately, I was able to install it on another Windows 11 machine.

However, the dearth of features available for the Origins 2 is disappointing. You can only adjust the RGB lighting, record macros, and rebind keys. There are plenty of options for the latter, with numerous system and media functions mappable, but there are no performance-related tweaks. Granted, a mechanical keyboard is never going to match the versatility of analog models on this front, but even more basic features, such as an SOCD function, are missing here, which might disappoint elite gamers.

• Design and features score: 3.5 / 5

HyperX Origins 2 1800 review: Performance

• Brilliant clicky mechanical switches
• Comfortable for WASD position
• Stock keycaps not great for typing

With its stock red Linear switches installed, the Origins 2 is a very clicky board. It produces a gratifying sound, although it’s a little louder than others. The keys are light but at the same time offer plenty of feedback, thanks to their minimal but effective dampening and generous travel distance. They rebound quickly, making them wonderfully snappy, and their actuation point is quite forgiving, which meant I didn’t suffer any mispresses.

Despite the thickness of the board, I found it comfortable to use in the WASD position, thanks to that slanted angle and central dip. Whether I had the feet up or down, I didn’t find myself wanting for wrist support, although I usually prefer a rest for long sessions.

I also found the space bar comfortable to hit, which is often a problem key for me. Its soft curve meant I rarely hit its edge. As for the other keycaps, their prominent indentations offered secure presses.

These aspects also make the Origins 2 comfortable when typing, but a bigger impediment here is the sheer height of the stock keycaps. I usually prefer low profiles as I find I can glide over them more easily. But here, I often caught their edges as I moved from key to key, which slowed me down and resulted in more errors.

• Performance score: 4 / 5

Should I buy the HyperX Origins 2 1800?

Scorecard

Buy it if…

Don't buy it if…

HyperX Origins 2 1800 review: Also consider

How I tested the HyperX Origins 2 1800

I tested the Origins 2 for several days, during which time I used it for gaming, working, and general browsing. I tested it on two PCs. As mentioned above, I was unable to get the Ngenuity software working on my main PC, but did on another, despite both running Windows 11 with x64 CPUs.

I’ve been PC gaming for over a decade, and have used numerous keyboards in that time. I’ve also reviewed a large number of them, across a range of price points, feature sets, and switch types.

• Read TechRadar’s reviews guarantee
• First reviewed: June 2026

SteelSeries Aerox 3 Wireless Gen 2: Two-minute review

The SteelSeries Aerox 3 Wireless Gen 2 doesn’t try to do everything. Instead, it focuses primarily on one: speed.

At 68g, it’s built to be as light and responsive as possible, targeting players who want quick reactions and minimal resistance. That approach works: it’s fast, accurate, and easy to control, particularly in competitive games where small movements make a difference.

But that focus comes with trade-offs. The honeycomb shell won’t suit everyone, and the feature set is deliberately minimal. If you’re looking for extras, you’ll likely find more elsewhere. Likewise, the smaller ambidextrous shape won’t be the best fit for all hand sizes, and the Aerox 3’s mechanical switches won’t satisfy everyone, particularly when some mid-range rivals offer optical or hybrid switches.

Nevertheless, the Gen 2 does bring some meaningful quality-of-life improvements over its predecessor. It features an up-rated 26K TrueMove sensor and boasts a 4000Hz wireless polling rate without the need for a dongle upgrade. Both represent clear upgrades in terms of gaming performance, shifting the emphasis towards fast-paced and competitive gameplay.

Battery life is similarly impressive, offering up to 120 hours on 2.4GHz, or up to 200 hours on Bluetooth. That said, this assumes 1000Hz with RGB off for both, so if you’re planning on gaming at the top end with all the bells and whistles at your disposal, expect there to be some drop-off in longevity here.

Another notable differentiator is the GG software’s 3D Aim Trainer and sensitivity converter, which can be tweaked and personalised to train your flicks, tracking, and target switching across multiple gaming environments, helping you to find the right settings before stepping into a live match.

SteelSeries Aerox 3 Wireless Gen 2 review: Design

The Aerox 3 Wireless Gen 2 light weight is immediately noticeable. In boxing terms, this guy is a minimumweight, clocking in at just 68g (the same as the Gen 1 model). It’s easy to move quickly and with minimal effort, it’s perfect for fast-paced gameplay.

Its low weight comes from the honeycomb chassis, which removes material to keep things light. It works well, but the perforated design may divide opinion: some will appreciate the lighter feel and added airflow, while others may find it less comfortable during longer sessions. The design feels almost skeletal, and while I didn’t find it uncomfortable per se, I remained aware of those perforations throughout testing.

Aside from its scrawny appearance then, the Aerox 3’s build quality is solid, with minimal flex during normal use. It’s zippy and responsive, with the welcome retention of the Gen 1’s IP54-rated AquaBarrier protection to help guard against dust and (coffee) splashes – which isn’t always a given in this mid-range category.

The shape is ambidextrous and broadly accessible, although it’s best suited to claw or fingertip grips. For me, an average-sized, middle-aged ape, it felt a little small. I tend to prefer a steeper curve at the back end of a mouse; the Aerox 3’s relatively flat profile doesn’t quite accommodate a comfortable grip, with too much palm left over with nowhere to sit.

Buttons are well placed, with five programmable inputs covering the basics, and the scroll wheel offers a consistent, controlled action.

The Aerox 3 Gen 2 features three-zone RGB lighting that provides a cool, neon underglow, and it can be customized via the GG app to suit your personal preferences and to complement your gaming setup. RGB lighting is subtle rather than showy, adding a bit of visual flair without becoming a distraction, switching itself off during mouse movement to conserve battery life.

SteelSeries Aerox 3 Wireless Gen 2 review: Performance

Pull the Aerox 3 Wireless Gen 2 out of the box, and the first thing you’ll notice is how little there is of it. At 68g, it almost doesn’t register in your hand, and that weightlessness translates directly into how it performs. This is a mouse that gets out of its own way.

The TrueMove 26K sensor is the engine under the hood, and it’s a willing one. Tracking was consistent across every surface I tested it on, including my SteelSeries Limited Edition QCK cloth gaming mousepad, my partner’s Corsair MM700 RGB Extended gaming mousepad, and bare-desk testing, with no drift or jitter across a range of DPI settings. The addition of adjustable lift-off distance over the Gen 1 is a small but welcome refinement, and was certainly noticeable with the amount of junk I have on my desk.

DPI flexibility is one of the Aerox 3 Gen 2’s quiet strengths. Spending time with Cyberpunk 2077, I found myself toggling between settings depending on the situation. I opted for high DPI (around 15,000+) when surrounded by enemies (which happens far too often), then dropped to between 500 and 800 DPI for precision aiming. The onboard DPI button makes switching on-the-fly straightforward, and I found myself efficiently eliminating such foes as John Wick on a rampage.

However, where the Aerox 3 Gen 2 really earns its stripes is in competitive gaming. Testing it in Apex Legends, the 4000Hz polling rate — which needs to be enabled in the GG app — delivered noticeably smoother cursor movement, low input lag, and killshots I’d have otherwise missed. At this price point, 4000Hz wireless polling without the need for a dongle upgrade is a big achievement and genuinely made a difference to my gameplay.

Running the mouse through mousetester.io at 3250 DPI with polling set to 4000Hz, I recorded a real-world polling rate of 3106Hz, which is a strong result and well within the expected range for a mouse of this specification. Pushing the DPI higher caused that figure to dip slightly — which is consistent with how high-polling-rate sensors behave under increased processing load, rather than any inherent limitation of the hardware. In practice, most competitive players will be running DPI settings where the Aerox 3 Gen 2 performs at its best anyway.

The mechanical switches deserve a mention, too. Rated for 80 million actuations, they’re crisp, light, and tactile. They might look plasticky, but they don’t feel cheap, which further affirms the price range. The PTFE feet glide smoothly across my mousepad, and the overall movement experience is effortless.

At $99.99 / £99.99, you’re not getting the last word in gaming mouse performance; the Razer DeathAdder V4 Pro’s 45K DPI sensor and 8000Hz polling rate still sit in a different league. But that’s not what the Aerox 3 Gen 2 is trying to be. What it delivers at this price is a fast, consistent, genuinely competitive wireless experience, and it does so very well.

The Aerox 3 Wireless Gen 2 supports both 2.4GHz wireless and Bluetooth. The inclusion of both at this price is worth noting, particularly as some of the Aerox 3’s rivals have opted to drop Bluetooth entirely in pursuit of raw performance (e.g., the Razer DeathAdder V4 Pro and Logitech’s G Pro X2 Superstrike).

For gaming, 2.4GHz is the clear choice, offering lower latency and a more stable connection. Bluetooth is better suited to everyday tasks, multi-device setups, or commuting. What’s more, commuters can leave the dongle at home and still pair this mouse without it, boosting its portability factor.

Battery life is a genuine strength. SteelSeries rates the Aerox 3 Gen 2 at up to 200 hours on Bluetooth and up to 120 hours on 2.4GHz, both assuming 1000Hz polling with RGB off. Push that polling rate up to 4000Hz, however, and that figure is likely to drop sharply, to around 30 hours or so. That will still give you enough juice for the bulk of a working week, but it’s a notable trade-off if you’re planning on leaving that cable behind permanently.

One practical point: there’s no onboard storage for the USB dongle inside the mouse itself (no surprise there, given its aerated design). However, SteelSeries has included a desk-based extension cable for situations where signal strength may be an issue, which is a handy addition if your tower sits on the floor.

Charging is handled via USB-C with fast-charging support, which helps keep downtime to a minimum when you do eventually need to plug in.

Customization is handled through the SteelSeries GG app, which strikes a good balance between accessibility and depth.

You’ll find all the basics catered for here: you can adjust DPI across multiple levels; remap your buttons; fine-tune RGB lighting; and save profiles for different setups. Plus, its onboard memory means your key settings travel with the mouse rather than being tethered to a single machine, which is a godsend for anybody switching between computers.

One important practical note: the headline-grabbing 4000Hz polling rate isn’t enabled by default, and you’ll need to head to the GG app to unlock it. This is simple enough to enable, but worth knowing before you assume you’re getting that peak performance right off the bat.

Where the GG software genuinely stands out, however, is the 3D Aim Trainer and Sensitivity Finder. This is best described as a 10-minute mini-game that analyses your playstyle and recommends an optimal DPI setting for your chosen FPS. It even lets you apply that sensitivity across different games, so if you split your time between titles, you can maintain a consistent feel from one to the next. Considering the Aerox 3’s price point, this is a thoughtful and genuinely useful addition that goes beyond what most rival software suites offer.

The interface itself is clean and easy to navigate, and I didn’t encounter any bugs or technical issues during my time with it.

SteelSeries Aerox 3 Wireless Gen 2 review: Price & availability

• $99.99 / £99.99
• Available now in Shadow, Magenta Haze, and Ghost colorways

The SteelSeries Aerox 3 Wireless Gen 2 typically retails for around £99.99 / $99.99, although it’s frequently available at a discount, making it an even more attractive proposition at this mid-range price point.

It comes in three colorways: Shadow (black), Magenta Haze (pink), and a semi-translucent Ghost finish, the latter of which leans into the current trend for see-through tech aesthetics and looks particularly striking with RGB lighting active. I was provided with the Ghost variant for this review, and I can absolutely vouch for the cool factor that it lends to my gaming setup.

At this price, the Aerox 3 sits comfortably alongside rivals such as the Endgame Gear OP1w 4K and Be Quiet! Dark Perk Ergo, while undercutting more premium competition such as the Razer DeathAdder V4 Pro and the Logitech G Pro X2 Superstrike by a considerable margin. For the performance on offer, it represents solid value for money.

SteelSeries Aerox 3 Wireless Gen 2 review: Specs

Should I buy the SteelSeries Aerox 3 Wireless Gen 2?

SteelSeries Aerox 3 Wireless Gen 2 scorecard

Buy it if…

Don’t buy it if…

SteelSeries Aerox 3 Wireless Gen 2 review: Also consider

How I tested the SteelSeries Aerox 3 Wireless Gen 2

• Tested across multiple gaming sessions and general desktop use
• Gaming tested in Cyberpunk 2077 and Apex Legends
• Polling rate verified using mousetester.io

I used the SteelSeries Aerox 3 Wireless Gen 2 across a mix of gaming, notably Cyberpunk 2077 and Apex Legends, and everyday tasks, focusing on responsiveness, comfort, and battery life. Testing included fast-paced shooters and general desktop use to assess responsiveness, comfort, and battery life across real-world conditions. I also ran the mouse through mousetester.io to verify real-world polling rate performance.

• Read TechRadar’s reviews guarantee
• First reviewed: June 2026

Genki Dual Wield Charging Grips and Base: Review

Genki’s Joy-Con 2 charging accessory has no pretensions of being a complicated, feature-packed gimmick. Rather, it commits to a minimal design and doing the simple things well. There are just two grips for your Joy-Con 2 pads, and two ports on the dock to charge them.

The basic square design of this dock doesn’t push the boat out aesthetically, but I was impressed by just how thin it is. There’s just enough for a USB-C port to be squeezed in on one end.

The grips attach magnetically to the dock, so there’s no need to press a button. I found it a little hard to tell whether they were correctly seated, as there’s little feedback, either physical or audible, when you slot them into place. Once in, they aren’t particularly sturdy; I can imagine a heavy knock dislodging them, but they’re fit for purpose otherwise.

There is a button to release the grips, but this doesn’t offer the smoothest operation, feeling a little cheap and flimsy. It’s big, at least, which at least makes it easy to press. Overall, the dock isn’t as well made as some of the best Nintendo Switch 2 accessories around, but it’s adequate for the job.

It took just over three hours to fully charge a single Joy-Con 2 set, which is reasonable. There are LED lights either side of each docking point in the form of plus and minus signs, corresponding to their button counterparts on the Joy-Con 2. These are bright and clear, making them easy to see at a glance.

However, they don’t actually illuminate while the controllers charge, which is a little annoying. They only turn green once the Joy-Con 2s are fully charged, and even then, they go out after a short amount of time.

Like the base, the grips have a simple form. They’re also quite thin, but feel better made than the dock itself. They’re very solid and sturdy, but also quite light.

The Joy-Cons snap magnetically to the sides, just as do to the Switch 2 itself. They’re reasonably secure here, but there is a noticeable amount of play. Under normal usage, though, they remained stable and I was never worried about them coming loose. They’re also slightly translucent, which allows the battery indicators on the Joy-Cons to shine through.

They have a curious triangle shape, which means the Joy-Cons lean inwards at the top. This didn’t cause an issue for me, though, and I could play games such as Super Mario Bros. Wonder and Metroid Dread just fine.

The hole in the center allows you to partially wrap your fingers into them, but I found it too small to wrap mine all the way around. Combined with the flat top and undersides of the grips, they aren’t as ergonomic as the best Nintendo Switch 2 controllers. You’d be better off combining these grips with those that provide some underhand support on the Joy-Cons themselves, to make it feel like a traditional gamepad.

There’s a USB-C port on top, allowing you to connect to the console and charge while you play. However, the included cable is quite short, so you’ll struggle to use it in a TV setup.

Genki Dual Wield Nintendo Switch 2 Charging Station review: Price and availability

The Genki Dual Wield costs £35.99 and is available now in one colorway: black.

This is a price reasonable for what it offers. Not only are there grips and charging docks for two sets of Joy-Con 2 controllers, but the fact that it has a USB-C port means you have more options to connect to sources, rather than relying on yet another single-use power adapter you’ll have to throw away once it’s served its purpose. It ticks many boxes if all you’re after is a cheap and easy way to hold and charge two sets of Joy-Con 2 controllers.

Should I buy the Genki Dual Wield Nintendo Switch 2 Charging Station?

Buy it if…

Don't buy it if…

Genki Dual Wield Charging Grips and Base review: Also consider

How I tested the Genki Dual Wield Charging Grips and Base

I tested the Genki Dual Wield for several days. I used it to charge a single set of Joy-Cons from flat to full, using a 67W charger. I also used the grips to play various Switch 2 games.

I’ve been gaming for decades, and have used all sorts of gaming accessories. I also own the DualSense Charging Station — one of the best PS5 accessories around — and have used other Switch and Switch 2 Joy-Con grips before. I’ve also reviewed a large number of controllers and other gaming peripherals.

• Read TechRadar’s reviews guarantee
• First reviewed: June 2026

GameSir Pocket Taco: review

The GameSir Pocket Taco is a novel mobile controller that clips to the bottom of your phone. It’s honestly unique enough that if you’ve seen it once, you’ll definitely remember it. With it, GameSir is attempting to cater to a niche audience of retro gamers that love old 4:3 titles but hate the pillar-boxing they cause on modern screens. Sadly, this is also its biggest weakness — if it fails to 100% nail this use case, it doesn’t have the broad appeal that will encourage other gamers to grab it instead.

When it comes to its design, I’ll admit I’m totally picking up what the GameSir Pocket Taco is throwing down. The Game-Boy-aping styling — upgraded with additional X and Y buttons for later generation games — is perfectly pitched to milk my nostalgia gland. And the clickiness of the buttons and D-pad certainly feels close enough in my mind’s eye to those halcyon days bopping ants on the head in Super Mario Land 2 almost 35 years ago.

Okay, I get that clamshell form factor is not going to be everyone’s cup of tea, but it seems like a neat idea that’s not been covered by any of the best mobile controllers yet, allowing you to play retro games in the 4:3 format they were designed in.

Clasping your phone with just enough force that it won’t slide out, I was happy trusting my premium phone to this little clip, while the gap at the bottom allows you to charge your phone while gaming, which is a nice touch. On paper, it seems like a fun way to play your old retro titles in a format that feels more familiar — a vertical 4:3 handheld.

Unfortunately, the issue is that things in the real world often don’t work out how they do on paper. And using the Pocket Taco, I was quickly forced to confront the gap between GameSir’s ambitions for the device and the reality of what it was able to achieve.

First off, the overall user experience of the Pocket Taco is a hollow shell that quickly disintegrates when you bite into it. Pairing the device gives me flashbacks to the bad old days of Bluetooth connectivity. Adding new connections became a painful process of triggering pairing mode over and over and wondering why the device wouldn’t appear in my potential connections.

This isn’t helped by the fact that it has four different pairing modes for different operating systems — I assume this is to make switching between multiple devices quicker, but in reality makes it more of a chore than a single Bluetooth connection that pairs and unpairs smoothly.

Using the GameSir app is also a mixed experience. Even when I finally paired the Pocket Taco with my iPhone 16 Pro, the app often would claim that it was connected with a nondescript third-party controller, blocking me from accessing the Pocket Taco’s unique functions. Once I’d finally gotten it to recognize the device in the app, I was allowed to test the controls and set the screen ratio, allowing me to resize the screen to take into account the section covered by the device.

Except I have no idea what the purpose of this is. It doesn’t impact anything outside of the app — your phone screen’s aspect ratio is set at the device level, meaning the second you navigate away from this app, the screen ratio resets to its default and is once again half covered by the controller.

There’s simply no way to get native games on iOS and Android to crop to the top half of the screen or even, with many of them, play in portrait mode, which really limits the controller's utility. You can still play native games using the Pocket Taco undocked, but for a lot of people, the appeal is going to be turning their phone into an all-in-one gaming device.

Now I know some people are going to roll their eyes and say that this controller is obviously intended for emulation, not running native games. Even setting aside the ethics of emulation — we're not advocates here at TechRadar, and are all for owning your own games, and I’m not going to endorse you doing anything that could land you in legal trouble — the Pocket Taco itself seems unsure of this fact.

In the iOS app, pressing the home button takes you straight to the Games app, while on Android, you can directly link games you’ve downloaded from the Play Store to the app. So there’s clearly a bit of an identity crisis going on here.

And the added wrinkle here is that many emulators aren’t able to change the aspect ratio and positioning of the screen. While I didn’t open or play any ROMs for this review, I did try out a couple of emulator apps to test the Pocket Taco’s compatibility with them. Using one of the most popular options on Android, I found it was impossible to reposition the screen to fit the remaining portion of the display.

Fortunately, I had better luck with one iOS option, using a controller skin to nudge the display into the right position, even if it left a pretty ugly black bar between the controller and the screen. Even if it is sometimes possible, it’s not exactly elegant.

Honestly, by the time I’d been through this process of getting the Pocket Taco working, my enthusiasm had almost entirely ebbed away. And that’s a shame because, underneath it all, there’s a decent controller struggling to get out.

When I finally caved and started using the Pocket Taco undocked, it plays like a dream. I booted up the iOS version of Secret of Mana and found the Pocket Taco was pleasantly tactile to use. It’s also pretty responsive — despite a few claims I’ve read online complaining about lag, I couldn’t perceive any noticeable delay between tapping a button and Randi spanking a rabbite or mushboom with his sword. But the issue is that propping your phone up and using a separate controller is just a bit clunky — many better mobile controllers like the Backbone One 2nd Gen exist that allow you to play native games docked.

I get the feeling that the Pocket Taco dwells in a state of existential crisis, unsure exactly who it is for. Because it’s an awkward fit for native gaming, forcing you to use it undocked. And for those who are looking for a way to emulate games in 4:3, there are plenty of pocket-sized handhelds that already cater to this market without the awkward screen resizing issues you’ll encounter here. Fundamentally, that means its niche is largely going to comprise those wooed by its nostalgia-drenched concept or emulator enthusiasts that can’t quite stretch to a standalone console. Others should look elsewhere.

GameSir Pocket Taco review: price and availability

• First shipped on March 15
• List price of $34.99 / £34.99 / AU$59
• Only one colorway

Having started shipping on March 15, the GameSir Pocket Taco is available now. You can pick it up for a list price of $34.99 / £34.99 / AU$59, which is seriously cheap, even compared to other mobile controllers. By comparison, our pick for best budget mobile, the GameSir X2s Type-C, costs $44.99 / £39.99 / AU$59, so this is a very affordable device.

While some mobile controllers will give you different colorways that mimic various consoles across the ages, the Pocket Taco only comes in this GameBoy-style color palette. That’s pure catnip for someone of my age but if you're more of an OG PlayStation or GameCube fanboi, you’re not going to be catered to here.

Should I buy the GameSir Pocket Taco?

Buy it if…

Don’t buy it if…

GameSir Pocket Taco review: also consider

How I tested the GameSir Pocket Taco

• Tested over the course of a week
• Tried it out on a variety of handsets, operating systems, and games
• I play way too many retro handheld games

I used the GameSir Pocket Taco over the course of a week. Not only did I download the GameSir app and try out all of its features and settings, but I also paired the device with both an iOS and an Android-powered handset: the iPhone 16 Pro and the Nothing Phone (4a) Pro.

When it comes to software, I used the GameSir Pocket Taco with multiple native games on iOS and Android. I also set it up with several highly rated emulators to see how compatible they were with the Pocket Taco’s screen coverage.

In terms of my own experience, I’ve been testing and reviewing gadgets for many years. I’m an avid handheld gamer, regularly playing on my Steam Deck, Switch 2, and iPhone 16 Pro. I’m also a keen retro gamer — I’ve completed games like Chrono Trigger and The Legend of Zelda: The Minish Cap more times than is strictly good for me.

• First reviewed: May 2026
• Read more about how we test

One-minute review

The SteelSeries Nimbus Cloud positions itself as the “world's first true dual-mode cloud controller”. It starts out as a generic-looking Bluetooth gamepad before doing its best Autobot impersonation and extending out to become a mobile grip that connects to your phone via USB-C, too.

It’s a clever idea and it’s backed up by an impressive spec sheet that ticks all the usual premium controller boxes. Hall Effect thumbsticks and triggers, mechanical face buttons, programmable rear buttons, and compatibility with Mac, PC, iOS, and Android.

That all sounds great, but after a week of using the Nimbus Cloud, it sadly lived up to its name. Cumulonimbus clouds are the type that bring heavy rain and thunderstorms, and my parade has been well and truly rained on.

When it works, it’s not a bad controller and falls neatly in line with the likes of the stock Xbox Wireless Controller. However, for a $149.99 / £129.99 / AU$359.99 controller, the Nimbus Cloud simply has too many flaws that spoil the day-to-day experience. There’s a list of buts coming here and it doesn’t make for particularly pleasant reading.

Build quality is fine, but it’s generic rather than carrying any kind of premium vibe. The triggers use Hall Effect sensors, which is good, but they feel mushy and throttle control in racing games proved a frustrating experience. The mechanical face buttons are crisp, but over both Bluetooth and USB-C I encountered missed inputs when pressing them more than once.

My iPhone 17 Pro fit, but it was far from a secure hold and it required the removal of the rubber inserts, leaving the phone resting and rubbing against bare plastic. SteelSeries lists Mac as a compatible platform, but my testing on a MacBook Air was a mess, with inverted sticks, wrongly mapped inputs, and Steam not playing nice either.

If this were a cheaper option or first attempt from a challenger brand then I’d find it easier to focus on the decent core elements and look past the finer details. However, at $149.99, you're paying over the odds for an under par experience, regardless of which mode you’re running it in.

SteelSeries Nimbus Cloud: Price and availability

• Costs $149.99 / £129.00 / AU$359.99
• Available from SteelSeries and some third-party retailers
• Released September 2025

The SteelSeries Nimbus Cloud is a relatively new addition to the range, launching in the back half of 2025 at $149.99 / £129.99 / AU$359.99. That’s top-end territory for a mobile grip or PC controller on its own, though it’s certainly more palatable for a device aiming to be both in one.

For comparison, the Backbone Pro mobile grip and Razer Wolverine V3 Pro PC controller will both set you back around the same on their own. But you could grab both the GameSir G8+ for mobile and 8BitDo Ultimate 2 for PC and have a little budget to spare.

It is worth shopping around, too, because the price seems to vary dramatically. Apple lists the Nimbus Cloud £20 higher in the UK than SteelSeries on its own website. And I’ve seen the price drop as low as £64 while writing this piece.

SteelSeries Nimbus Cloud: Specs

SteelSeries Nimbus Cloud: Design and features

• Cleverly extends from a compact PC controller to a full-width mobile controller grip
• Broad compatibility across platforms
• Nicely sized and positioned rear buttons

Pick up the SteelSeries Nimbus Cloud in its collapsed form, and, apart from a curious split down the middle, you'd be forgiven for thinking it's a fairly standard Bluetooth gamepad. It has the familiar Xbox-style stick layout, ABXY face buttons, bumpers, triggers, a d-pad, and view/menu buttons.

There's no center button like an Xbox guide button, though there is a Home button that directs you to your device's home screen or, on iOS, Apple's Games app. It’s all pretty standard stuff.

Build quality is alright rather than impressive. I wasn’t blown away by how it felt in my hands but equally there wasn’t any area of particular concern. It's surprisingly light at just over 250g, which is welcome for a mobile controller with a battery, but that lightness comes with a hollow feeling that doesn't scream premium.

Nothing rattles or creaks, but it's no better than a stock Xbox controller and lacks the little premium touches like rubberized or textured grips that you’d expect for $150. SteelSeries says the battery is good for 20 hours of play over Bluetooth and that seems about right based on my testing. There’s passthrough USB-C charging too, but no 3.5mm audio output.

The magic trick is when it engages Transformer mode (an unofficial name I’m giving it). Pull the two halves apart and the Nimbus Cloud unfurls into a telescopic mobile grip, revealing a USB-C connector on the upper right side that plugs directly into your phone.

The mechanism involves multiple overlapping sections that extend, and credit where it's due, it's a very clever bit of mechanical design. It just seems to keep going with more and more phone deck appearing from nowhere. It’s satisfying in a fidget-toy sort of way and while using it in PC controller mode I caught myself idly expanding and collapsing it a few times during cutscenes.

Phone compatibility is a mixed bag and unlike other dedicated mobile grips it’s not simply a matter of case on vs case off. I tested with both an iPhone 17 Pro and a POCO X5 Pro. The POCO has a slim, nearly flat profile and fit physically with the stock set of rubber inserts.

By design your phone is seated in the upper half of the grip rather than centrally, though, which leaves it feeling somewhat exposed and prone to knocks. The iPhone 17 Pro was almost a non-starter as with either size of the included rubber inserts the camera bump was too thick to fit neatly.

Even after removing the inserts entirely, which leaves the phone resting against bare hard plastic, it didn't fit in a way I’d consider usable long term. Beyond worries about it getting scratched to bits, I was concerned about the amount of stress going through the USB-C connector. There's noticeable movement and wobble with the phone inserted, it never feels square, and one bad bump feels like it could snap the connector off inside your phone's port.

The rear of the SteelSeries Nimbus Cloud has two programmable buttons that sit in a natural resting position for your middle fingers. I’d call them a hybrid between a paddle and a button and it’s a design that works well ergonomically, requiring just the right amount of force to activate while avoiding accidental clicks.

However, the lack of any official companion app means you can only bind or remap these through iOS's built-in Game Controller settings. On Android, I couldn't remap them at all.

For a controller at this price from a brand with the resources of SteelSeries, the absence of a dedicated app for customization is difficult to understand. Competitors like Razer, GameSir, and Backbone all offer robust software companions, and some of those are half the price.

SteelSeries Nimbus Cloud: Performance

• Hall Effect sticks and mechanical face buttons feel great
• Triggers are mushy and lack control
• Connectivity and compatibility is a real mixed bag across platforms

Whether in controller or grip trim, the Hall Effect thumbsticks are the SteelSeries Nimbus Cloud's strongest performing feature.

They're quite firm with a relatively fast spring-back and slightly shorter travel than some competitors I've tested. That means they're precise enough for shooters and responsive enough for general gaming, though the smaller range of movement might take some adjustment. Unlike some competitors, there’s no option to swap or adjust the sticks and SteelSeries has played it reasonably safe with a shortish stick height and traditional caps.

The triggers also use Hall Effect sensors, but they’re muddy and I didn’t feel like they consistently recreated their physical movement in game. It's hard to explain, but where good thumbsticks let you feel dialed in when playing racing games like Forza Horizon 6, on the Nimbus Cloud I felt disconnected when trying to modulate the throttle. This was the same whether I was playing locally on my PC or via cloud gaming on mobile, so wasn’t a Bluetooth latency issue.

The mechanical face buttons are super clicky, tactile, and satisfying to press, as is the d-pad. They’re responsive for general gameplay; however, I noticed the Nimbus Cloud would occasionally miss inputs in situations where I was pressing the same button repeatedly.

This originally cropped up when spam jumping waiting for the Battle Bus in a Fortnite lobby and I was able to confirm it with dedicated testing after getting eliminated. Interestingly, this didn't seem to be an issue when pressing a combination of buttons so appears to be a debounce problem. The face buttons are pretty quiet but the same can’t be said for the bumpers. It’s nice to see these use mechanical switches, but unlike the face buttons they’re loud and almost sound like a cheap old-fashioned mouse.

When stretched out in mobile grip mode the SteelSeries Nimbus Cloud performs well. On both iOS and Android it was immediately recognized, though the controller itself is a little shy in confirming this for you. The four battery LEDs do briefly light up initially, but I’d like a persistent indicator like you find on rivals.

Both Fortnite and Call of Duty Mobile recognized the controller on launch with no extra config or mapping needed, as did Xbox Cloud Gaming. It all worked nicely and naturally out of the box, which is just as well, because without an app you’d be completely stuck otherwise. I mentioned it before, but the Nimbus Cloud having no companion app feels like a real misstep. Rivals like the GameSir G8+ allow for deep customization like dead zone adjustment and hair trigger modes, both of which are notably absent here on a controller that costs nearly twice as much.

Where things fell apart completely in my testing was when I tried to use the Nimbus Cloud with macOS. SteelSeries lists Mac as a compatible platform, but in my experience it was borderline unusable. It happily connected via Bluetooth without any fuss, but that’s where the joy ended.

In Forza Horizon 6 via Xbox Cloud Gaming I was greeted by the left stick input being inverted and triggers that were mapped to start and select. It turned out the bumpers were acting as triggers instead, and while I attempted to remap through macOS system settings, it didn't seem to be respected in game. This wasn’t a Forza problem; either, Stardew Valley didn’t even recognize it at all. Steam fared just as badly, albeit in a different way. There it detected the Nimbus Cloud as two separate controllers simultaneously, neither of which worked correctly.

The good news is that I was actually quite impressed with how the SteelSeries Nimbus Cloud performed over Bluetooth (as long as you’re not a Mac main, of course). My iPad Pro immediately recognized the Nimbus Cloud without issue and playing Fortnite natively could easily have been mistaken for a scaled-down console experience.

Connected to my Windows gaming PC I happily spent a couple of hours in Roadcraft and at this slower pace the Nimbus Cloud kept up nicely. I did have to go through the full Steam controller setup procedure, however, something I’ve not needed to do with controllers in the past. Cloud gaming was fine on Windows too, up was up, down was down, and triggers were triggers.

Should I buy the SteelSeries Nimbus Cloud?

Buy it if...

Don't buy it if...

Also consider

After a more consistent experience? Here are two capable alternatives.

How I tested the SteelSeries Nimbus Cloud

• I spent a few days testing across devices, including an iPhone 17 Pro and POCO X5 Pro, an iPad Pro, a MacBook Air, and a gaming PC
• I played Fortnite and Call of Duty Mobile natively on mobile and iPad, Roadcraft on desktop, and Forza Horizon 6 via Xbox Cloud Gaming.
• I tested it in both collapsed and expanded modes

Over the course of a week I tested the SteelSeries Nimbus Cloud across multiple platforms and game genres. Mobile testing was split between an iPhone 17 Pro and a POCO X5 Pro, covering both iOS and Android in the extended USB-C mode. I played a mix of native mobile games and cloud-streamed titles via Xbox GamePass.

For Bluetooth testing, I paired the Nimbus Cloud with a Windows PC and a MacBook Air, looking at games on Steam and cloud gaming on both platforms. When I noticed potential missed button inputs during regular gameplay, I used a dedicated button testing app to verify.

Read more about how we test

First reviewed July 2025

GameSir X5 Lite: one-minute review

The GameSir X5 Lite is a basic mobile controller designed to work with Android and iOS devices ranging from 105mm / 4.13 inches to 213mm / 8.39 inches long.

It has a functional and minimalist form with little fanfare. It looks more striking in its green ‘Wasabi’ guise, but this is about the only flourish the controller displays. There’s no lighting, save for a small LED ring around the GameSir button.

The build quality of the X5 Lite is quite good. The materials don’t feel as premium as those of the best mobile controllers, but they’re sufficient nonetheless. Thankfully, GameSir doesn’t seem to have skimped on the engineering of the central retractable bar; its spring mechanism is as smooth and strong as I could’ve wished for, while still being fairly easy to pull apart.

The X5 Lite provides a secure fit for your phone, thanks to the selection of silicone pads provided. The USB-C jack also provides a strong connection, and it flexes to make it easier to insert. The X5 Lite also features a USB-C port for passthrough phone charging, which is a nice touch and is positioned to allow for its use while gaming.

Speaking of which, the gaming performance of the X5 Lite is very good. The grips are ergonomic and comfortable, although they might be too small for those with larger hands. Thanks to their generous dampening, the buttons are satisfying and easy to press. The same can be said about the bumpers and triggers, although these are a little more snappy, which is ideal. The D-pad is very easy and comfortable to use, too.

The real highlight of the X5 Lite, though, is its Hall Effect analog sticks. Despite their small size, they’re smooth and precise, and rebound quickly to their starting position. They’re also very comfortable, thanks to the ergonomic caps.

It's a shame that the GameSir app doesn’t offer much in the way of adjustments or customizations, and the hardware of the X5 Lite can’t be swapped out. However, given its relatively low price, the X5 Lite is a great value mobile controller all the same.

GameSir X5 Lite review: Price & availability

• $34.99 / £34.99 / AU$44.99
• Available now in black and light green
• Budget end of the market

The GameSir X5 Lite costs $34.99 / £34.99 / AU$44.99 and is available now. It comes in two colorways: black and a light green shade called Wasabi.

This is a great price for a mobile controller of this caliber. It may lack the sophistication and customization options of more premium models, but it does the basics very well.

For a more upmarket experience, you could try the Razer Kishi V3 Pro. This has bigger grips, so more players should be able to get their hands around it. Its app also allows for far more adjustments than GameSir’s. The V3 Pro is considerably more expensive than the X5 Lite, although its antecedent, the Rishi Ultra, is now considerably cheaper, yet offers comparable performance.

If it’s hardware customization you want, but still don’t want to spend the earth, there’s the GameSir G8+ MFi. This model features swappable stick caps and face buttons, as well two extra buttons on the back of each grip.

GameSir X5 Lite review: Specs

GameSir X5 Lite review: Design and features

• Functional appearance
• Secure fit for phones
• Basic app

The X5 Lite puts function first, with its chunky, ergonomic grips standing out above all else. There’s no RGB lighting here, just a small LED ring around the GameSir button at the bottom of the right grip.

The black colorway is a little bland, but the light green version, which GameSir calls Wasabi, is certainly more conspicuous. There are also yellow accents on the bases of the analog sticks and on the inside of the central bar.

It feels quite well made, although the plastics don’t look or feel particularly upmarket. They should hold up well enough, however, and they’re a fair compromise given how light the X5 Lite is; this truly a mobile gamepad.

More impressive, though, is its sliding mechanism for the phone slot. There’s a lot of resistance, which is a positive since it provides a strong clasp for your device. A good tug or drop will likely dislodge it, but under normal usage your phone shouldn’t go anywhere. Despite this, it isn’t too difficult to prise open, since it slides very smoothly.

The secure fit is also aided by the silicone pad inserts on the inside of the grips. There are three to choose from, each with different thicknesses in order to accommodate various phone sizes and phone cases. I had no trouble finding ones that allowed my test phone — the Xiaomi 17T with a case attached — to fit inside the X5 Lite. They’re easy to replace, too.

Unlike some mobile controllers, the X5 Lite doesn’t have wireless connectivity. Instead, there’s a USB-C jack tucked inside the left grip. Thankfully, it’s flexible enough to connect to your phone easily. However, this does mean you have no choice but to orient your phone with the power and volume buttons at the bottom, which some users might find inconvenient.

There’s also a USB-C port on the bottom of the left grip to allow for passthrough charging of your phone. This is a good location as it doesn’t get in the way; my palm just managed to curve around my charging cable as I held the controller.

You can download the GameSir mobile app to adjust various settings on the X5 Lite, but the options here are limited. You can alter the deadzone of both sticks, and switch the face buttons from an Xbox to a Switch layout, but that’s it.

This pales in comparison to the number of tweaks available in other controller software. Also, there’s supposed to be a setting to let you control your phone’s UI with the X5 Lite, but I couldn’t see this option anywhere.

GameSir X5 Lite review: Performance

• Comfortable but small grips
• Satisfying button presses
• Precise and fast analog sticks

In action, the X5 Lite is excellent. The grips are a little stunted compared to more traditional gamepads, which meant I could only get my first two fingers fully around them. This wasn’t uncomfortable for me, but those with bigger hands might struggle to hold the pad securely.

The face buttons are very satisfying to press, owing to their dampening. They’re also very snappy and responsive, and are easy to hit thanks to their positioning and spacing.

This is also true of the shoulder buttons. I had no issue reaching either the bumpers or the triggers with my fingers, and their ergonomic shape makes them comfortable to rest on. The bumpers have a satisfying click to them, and although they’re slightly less damped than the face buttons, they’re certainly not harsh. Additionally, they provide enough feedback to inspire confidence that they’ve registered, too.

If anything, the triggers feel even better. Striking the ideal balance between clicky and damped, they again offer satisfying feedback and have a generous amount of travel. It’s a shame they aren’t analog, although it has to be said not many mobile games make use of such triggers.

Perhaps the highlight of the X5 Lite is its Hall Effect analog sticks. They’re much smoother than I was expecting, moving effortlessly and snapping back to the center with plenty of spring. They’re also impressively solid, with next to no play to them.

What’s more, they offer plenty of control, despite their small size. I had no problem performing complex and nuanced movements in games such as Hitman Blood Money — Reprisal or Lara Croft: Guardian of Light. In fact, they even rival those of the best PC controllers.

They’re also comfortable to use, thanks to their caps being soft to the touch and slightly indented. Like the best Xbox controllers, they’re laid out asymmetrically, which I and many others find more ergonomic.

The D-pad in the X5 Lite is very easy to use. It’s light and forgiving, with plenty of dampening and travel in all directions, which makes it more comfortable than many others I’ve experienced. Pressing multiple directions in quick succession, therefore, is a cinch, even though it’s topped with a traditional four-pronged hat, rather than a more modern circular one.

I didn’t experience any connectivity issues during my time with the X5 Lite. The USB jack maintained a secure connection and I didn’t have any concerns about it coming loose at any point.

Should I buy the GameSir X5 Lite?

Buy it if…

Don't buy it if…

GameSir X5 Lite review: Also consider

How I tested the GameSir X5 Lite

• Tested for several days
• Played different games
• Plentiful gaming experience

I tested the GameSir X5 Lite for several days. I used it with two different Android phones: the Google Pixel 7a and the Xiaomi 17T. I used the different silicone pads that came in the box.

I played Hitman: Blood Money — Reprisal, Lara Croft: Guardian of Light, and Asphalt Legends. I downloaded GameSir’s mobile app to try out its various features and customizations.

I’ve been gaming for decades, and have used all kinds of systems in that time, from home consoles and PCs to laptops and other handheld systems. I also have plenty of experience with controllers, and have reviewed a number of them before, including another mobile model from GameSir, the GameSir X4 Aileron.

• Read more about how we test
• First reviewed June 2026

• Belkin is launching two new accessories for the Nintendo Switch 2
• The Charging Grip aims to improve comfort and extend battery life
• It could help solve one of the Switch 2's biggest handheld gaming challenges: shorter play sessions

Ahead of the Nintendo Switch 2's first anniversary on June 5, Belkin is expanding its accessories lineup for the popular gaming handheld console hybrid with two new additions.

While you might think of Belkin as a maker of wall chargers, power banks, and screen protectors for your iPhone, the accessory brand has offered some pretty awesome products for the Switch 2. I’ve already written about the Charging Case for Nintendo Switch 2, which has been out for several months, and we’ve even rated Belkin’s screen protector for the console four and a half out of five stars.

That serves as a reminder that I might need to invest in one, as I almost exclusively use the Switch 2 as a handheld. And that leads me to Belkin’s Charging Grip for the Switch 2, which is available now for $99 / £69.99 / AU$149.

The general idea here is that it snaps around the Switch 2 for a more comfortable gaming experience, though it does add a bit more heft to the unit. It also features magnets on the back, allowing a power bank — which is included — to snap on easily.

And for me, that’s the big win here. We’ve seen other power solutions, even from Belkin, but normally you’re left trying to hold the battery pack or let it dangle. Here, it snaps onto the back, and its included cable can easily plug into the Switch 2 to solve one of my biggest gripes: battery life in handheld mode.

For longer gaming sessions — which the battery naturally helps enable — and to improve overall ergonomics, the grip wraps around the Switch 2’s Joy-Cons as well. Perhaps most importantly, the grips are non-slip and still allow you to remove the Joy-Cons while the Charging Grip remains attached to the Switch 2. It’s simply smart design, and there’s even a built-in kickstand. If you also like to use the Switch 2 docked on a bigger screen, such as a TV, the grip doesn’t affect compatibility.

So, for the price, you’re getting both the grip for the Switch 2 and a 10,000mAh power bank with a cable for easy plug-and-play charging. Belkin says the power bank can recharge the Switch 2 up to 1.5 times, and you can monitor the battery level via a circular LED display on the unit.

Less electronic, but no less useful, is the Travel Bag for Nintendo Switch 2, which isn’t just a fashion-forward way to carry the console but also offers dedicated storage for key accessories. It can hold the Switch 2, a Pro Controller, and other accessories. Like Belkin’s other cases, it also includes slots for up to 10 game cards. It’s worth noting that it’s designed to work with the Charging Grip, meaning these two products go hand in hand.

You’ll also have room inside for other accessories, and whether you swear by an AirTag, a Tile tracker, or a MotoTag, there’s a dedicated slot for one. Belkin’s Travel Bag for Nintendo Switch 2 is available now for $49.99 / £29.99 / AU$54.95 from the brand's online store and Amazon.

Both the Travel Bag and the Charging Grip come in three colors: black, lilac, and olive. While the latter two add a bit of color, I’m still hoping Belkin will increase the vibrancy and introduce a few more fun shades if these accessories prove popular.

Nacon Storage Case for Nintendo Switch 2: review

If you want the most all-encompassing, compromise-free storage for your shiny new Nintendo system, then the Nacon Storage Case for Nintendo Switch 2 might be ideal for you.

This large carry case is rammed with a whole lot of space for your console, dock, Joy-Con 2 controllers, traditional controllers, and accessories. It comes equipped with individual compartments for each part of your Switch 2 set up, so if you’re planning on setting up a gaming party, tournament, or travelling for a while, then it seems like the perfect companion?

But just how good is the Nacon Storage Case for Nintendo Switch 2 really? Well, I’ve spent a few days testing it and I have plenty of thoughts. Can it compete with some of the very best Nintendo Switch 2 accessories? Here’s what I think.

Let’s talk about the storage situation first, because this is probably the most spacious Switch 2 case I’ve ever seen — let alone tested.

You get a whopping 21 game card slots, which can also be used for microSD Express cards if you’d like, and that’s probably more than you’ll ever need. There’s also a net on the top side of the case where you can store HDMI cables, power leads and the like.

The main event, though, is the giant storage compartment with bespoke slots for specific Switch 2 gear. While this compartment isn’t anything flashy, and it doesn’t look the most attractive, it is admittedly pretty practical. I had room to place two Turtle Beach Rematch Wireless Controllers, four extra Joy-Cons, my Switch 2, dock, and power cable, enabling me to take my full setup anywhere.

Even when swinging the case around and dropping it from a controlled distance, everything stayed in place without a hitch.

My only real criticism here, would be that some of the slots are on the tight side of things. The joysticks on my controllers and on my Switch 2 were being pushed out of place in order for them to fit in the case, and while I don’t expect this would create lasting damage, it isn’t ideal.

Otherwise, the case is a pretty solid all-rounder. The exterior is sturdy and rigid, and it was resistant to scratches when I tried roughing it up. It did pick up dust and fibres pretty easily, though, which some may find frustrating.

Still, the zips are well-made and firm, the handle is wide making it easy to grip, and the interior compartment is fully removable.

The main downside of this case, if you ask me, is that it just doesn’t look amazing. Frankly, it’s gigantic, and rivals like Nintendo’s official All-In-One case provide individual compartments and strong protection with about half of the overall footprint. It also has a fairly one note design, and as I say, picks up debris pretty readily.

Ultimately, this case doesn’t have to look beautiful or anything — after all it comes in at a relatively modest price-point of $44.99 / £29.90 (about AU$63). But whether it’s right for you or not will come down to one major factor: are you willing to lug such a giant case around? Do you really need quite this much space? The answer for me on both counts, would probably be no.

If you can get past the size then you have a durable and (mostly) well made case that will store just about everything you need. If not, then I’d suggest checking out my alternative picks in the ‘Also consider’ section.

Nacon Storage Case for Nintendo Switch 2 review: price & specs

Should I buy the Nacon Storage Case for Nintendo Switch 2?

Buy it if…

Don’t buy it if…

Nacon Storage Case for Nintendo Switch 2 review: also consider

How I tested the Nacon Storage Case for Nintendo Switch 2

• Used the case over the course of multiple days
• Directly compared against other models
• Tested by a Switch 2 owner and experienced gaming accessories reviewer

I spent a few days putting the Nacon Storage Case to the test, bringing it with me when out and about and cramming it with just about every Switch 2 accessory I have.

During my time testing the case, I performed durability tests, which included scratching the model, as well as dropping it from a controlled height. I also compared it against rivals like Nintendo’s official all-in-one model.

More generally, I’ve spent years testing tech and gaming gear here at TechRadar, including a whole lot of Switch 2 cases. I’ve also been a Nintendo Switch 2 owner from day one, and know exactly what it takes for a case to stand out from the competition.

• Read TechRadar’s reviews guarantee
• First reviewed: June 2026

Sony’s new Pulse Elevate speakers are aiming to bring “lifelike desktop audio” to your gaming sessions and beyond, and I travelled over to PlayStation’s UK headquarters in London to try them for myself.

I got to experience their in-game audio capabilities, music streaming skills, and even talk to PlayStation’s Vice President of Product Development, Edwin Foo, about the speakers’ creation process.

But just how good are the Pulse Elevate? And what exactly sets them apart from the swathe of competing desktop stereo speakers? Here’s what I think after my time with the upcoming product.

Sony’s new speakers: an overview

The moment that Edwin and I sat down with the Pulse Elevate, he responded to a question that he already knew I’d ask: “Why would we [Sony] need to make [desktop] speakers?” The answer came in two parts.

First of all, he said, since the release of the PS5 in 2020, Sony has identified a significant and growing portion of the user base that is not playing “in front of a TV on a couch,” but instead, while sitting at a monitor. “We realize that this trend is growing and we really need to acknowledge it,” Foo told me.

And the second part of the answer, he revealed, was that Sony felt that the display side of the desktop gaming equation was already well-served. “There are just lots of options out there for monitors,” Foo said. “But we realized that the audio portion of that experience could use some help”.

For many, relying on monitors for audio won’t be an option — many aren’t equipped with speakers in the first place, and when they are, they’re often pretty poor.

But Foo was also keen to highlight how headphones or headsets might not be a great alternative for some gamers, citing issues such as discomfort, ears overheating, and isolation from the rest of the household.

Headphone-like immersion on your desktop

Instead, Sony felt that speakers were the way to go — but it wanted to ensure that players could almost recreate the immersive experience of using headphones. Foo’s team was responsible for the Pulse Elite headset, released in 2024. And a lot of key tech from that model has been placed within the new Pulse Elevate.

The first example is PlayStation Link, Sony’s proprietary ultra-low-latency tech, which is ideal for gaming — and an important inclusion given that these speakers cannot be used wired; they either sit on charging docks or can run off the dock for 12 hours, according to Foo.

The second technology carried over is the Planar magnetic drivers, and this is the exciting stuff. These studio-inspired drivers offer tremendous accuracy and directionality, which makes them ideal for gaming, where you want a precise sense of where specific sounds are emanating from.

It’s worth mentioning that both speaker units also have a built-in woofer, which provides punchy, almost cinematic bass. Sony says that with the woofers and planar magnetic drivers combined, users can enjoy “a varied soundscape that’s perfect for desktop gaming”.

Sound check

After getting the lowdown on the Pulse Elevate’s inception, it was time for me to give them a go. I sat down at a desk, placed the speakers into their raised position, and entered a demo of Ghost of Yōtei.

This demo contained a story overview from 2025’s State of Play deep dive, and was very dialogue-focused. A narration running throughout the demo came through with exceptional clarity, never getting drowned out by music stirring in the backdrop or impactful bass. But it was in my second demo where I got a real taste of the Pulse Elevate’s full capabilities.

Yes, I got the chance to play the opening segment of Saros using the Pulse Elevate, and this is where the speakers impressed me most. When running through the environment, I was blown away by the directionality of ambient effects beside me, as well as enemies flying up and overhead. In addition, gunshots sounded agile and concise, rather than muddy or shrill, while dialogue remained well-balanced in the mix.

The planar magnetic drivers go a long way in providing precise stereo imaging, but there’s also Tempest 3D AudioTech on board, which endeavours to conjure up immersive surround sound for games that support it.

As well as gaming, I got to try listening to some music, which you can stream via Bluetooth on the Pulse Elevate for ultimate convenience. We tuned into Stay by The Kid Laroi and Justin Bieber, and I was impressed with the bass output of the speakers as well as the energetic percussion.

We’ll need more time to test the speakers to determine just how good they are — especially for music, but they certainly made a good first impression. However, I’ve not even mentioned one of the best parts about these speakers yet: their noise-rejecting microphone.

With music turned up to the max, Foo spoke a few words, which were recorded at a Teams meeting. When we listened back, the music was totally inaudible, and Foo’s voice came through with spectacular clarity. This really blew me away, as I tested a lot of audio tech with AI algorithms for ‘crystal clear calls’ and they can often be underwhelming. But this works incredibly well, and means you can enjoy in-game audio while talking to your pals without any compromise in terms of speech clarity.

Talk about a first impression

I have to say, I was pretty impressed by the Sony Pulse Elevate during my time with them. They offered an impressive sense of space while retaining clarity across the frequency range, and their noise-reducing mic feels very well equipped for online gaming.

There are some slight compromises; for example, Foo told me that the speakers don’t support LDAC, and with no wired alternative, that means that true hi-res audio is off the table. Still, the AAC codec is supported, and with a good quality signal, that can often be enough to deliver outstanding audio.

The planar magnetic drivers are also a fantastic inclusion, and I felt that they captured the feeling of headphones for desktop gaming to great effect. Again, though, we’ll need to test them for an extended period to get the full picture.

One more thing I’ll say is that I like the design of these. They can stand flat or raised, depending on your preference, and they easily slot on or off their charging docks. Their sloped appearance is also pretty eye-catching, and they look classy in both of their color variants: Midnight Black or White.

Some details remain unknown, such as the speakers’ price — which Foo was unable to tell me just yet — as well as their release date. However, Sony previously touted them for a 2026 launch, so hopefully we can get our hands on them sooner rather than later.

Sony is bringing a wireless fight stick to new audiences with its upcoming FlexStrike Wireless Fight Stick. The tech giant is looking to pitch its new PS5 peripheral to those who have never owned a fightstick before — perhaps those who grew up with gamepads rather than arcade cabs — as well as relative newcomers to the fighting game genre.

Why? Well, to find out, I sat down with PlayStation’s Vice President of Product Development, Edwin Foo — a man who has overseen the development of products like the PlayStation Portal and Pulse Elite Headphones. I also got to try out the FlexStrike Wireless Fight Stick for myself — and I’ve got the lowdown on its price, release date, and more.

So, here’s everything you need to know about the FlexStrike Wireless Fight Stick, and how I rated my time with the new PS5 peripheral.

Enter Sony’s beginner-friendly FlexStrike

Before we get into the details, allow me to introduce Sony’s new fight stick. The FlexStrike Wireless Fight Stick can be used without a cable via PlayStation Link or wired via USB-C. I was told that the model offers 4ms latency when connected over PlayStation Link — favored over Bluetooth for its highly stable and speedier connectivity.

The model features a custom-built digital stick, which is fairly short — for an ergonomic yet fast and responsive feel. Pair that with well-sized buttons featuring mechanical switches, and you have a very solid foundation to work from.

But who exactly is this for? For Foo, this model is squarely aimed at fight stick first-timers — those who have grown up using gamepads rather than arcade cabs — but also newer fighting game fans.

He was keen to highlight how a lot of models boast an almost intimidating array of buttons, and can be pretty hefty to boot. The FlexStrike’s simplistic layout makes it more approachable, and its ergonomic design is ideal for people who just want to “pick it up, put it in their lap, and play,” he said.

But this got me wondering: why would Sony target players who are new to fight sticks, rather than more experienced fighting game fans? For Foo, this came down to two key reasons. The first, he said, is that “we [Sony] think it’s an experience that those people who have grown up with the DualSense and gamepads deserve to give a shot. It’s another way to play”. The second, he said, is that “we think the market is actually pretty well served already for people who already know and love fight sticks and have already made their choice, so to speak”.

Getting hands on

After chatting away about Sony’s upcoming peripheral, I was given a chance to try it out for myself. We loaded up the upcoming fighter Marvel Tokon: Fighting Souls, and both my opponent and I picked up a FlexStrike each. Interestingly, you can connect two of Sony’s fight sticks up to a single dongle and maintain ultra-low latency.

Now, time for a confession. I kinda suck at 2D fighters. I enjoy the odd bit of Guilty Gear or Street Fighter, but I am by no means up to competitive standards, and inevitably, I got my butt kicked.

However, I did get to experience everything the fight stick had to offer, and I found it really pleasant to use.

First of all, let’s talk about the control stick. Its relatively short stature made movement feel incredibly snappy and responsive, and I never suffered from pesky mis-inputs or anything. The click of the stick moving was satisfying and relatively light — it wasn’t obnoxiously loud or distracting, and Sony found a great balance in my view.

It was a similar story for the buttons, which felt tactile and reactive, and were placed in a convenient way to ensure maximum comfort. I never felt like I was overstretched, and the layout felt very beginner-friendly — ideal for the target audience. I also appreciated a lock button on the fight stick, which prevents you from accidentally triggering buttons like options or pressing the ‘PS’ button — after all, accidentally pausing the game can be grounds for disqualification in some competitive situations.

One more thing that struck me about the FlexStrike was how secure and ergonomic it was to use. The model’s tilted, textured base kept it fixed in place on my lap; it never seemed as if it was slipping off, and its lightweight construction kept it feeling comfortable in use.

Final thoughts: a well-made model, but a slightly tough sell?

Performance-wise, I think this model hits the right notes, especially for the target market. It's approachable and straightforward to use, and offers ultra-low latency in both wired and wireless capacities. Something I also discovered is that the model has a battery life of 40 hours, which is very solid indeed, and means you won’t have to charge it very often at all — another user-friendly feature.

But something that may prove to be a point of contention is the FlexStrike’s price. Sony told me that the upcoming peripheral will launch at $199.99 / £179.99. And while that’s not extortionate, I do think that the intended audience — i.e., fight stick newcomers — may feel that the cost is hard to justify.

Although it’s high in quality and has welcome features such as a carry case with a protective slot for the stick, and mechanical switch-powered buttons, almost $200 / £180 is quite a bit to spend on a peripheral — especially one that some will find not essential for play.

Having said that, Sony told me that the FlexStrike will release on August 6, 2026 — the same day as Marvel Tokon: Fighting Souls, meaning that a lot of new players could be tempted to go all in on the ultimate fighting game setup. Foo told me that there are no plans for a game and fight stick bundle on day one, but if we saw bundles in the future, that could be an effective way of shipping more controller units.

But what do you think? Do you see the FlexStrike Wireless Fight Stick being a success? Are you excited to try it out for yourself? Be sure to let me know in the comments!

The FlexStrike Wireless Fight Stick will release on August 6, 2026, and pre-orders will start on June 12.

• A Redditor said they "almost started a fire" with the Steam Controller's charging puck
• This happened when their metallic smartwatch strap made contact with the puck's exposed pins
• It caused a short circuit and "started sizzling" — although Valve does warn about this in the manual

A Redditor warns that they "almost started a fire" with the charger for the Steam Controller when it made contact with their metallic smartwatch strap.

This happened when charging the smartwatch close to the puck, with the watch strap accidentally touching the Steam Controller's charging puck at the "exact wrong angle".

The Redditor explains: "So my smartwatch's metallic strap accidentally touched the Puck's exposed contacts and started sizzling due to a short circuit."

They also added that they consider this to be their own fault, and as several of the other Redditors posting on the thread point out, Valve does warn about this in the manual for the Steam Controller.

There's a section in the health and safety booklet which warns that the charging puck contains a magnet, and that: "Magnetic parts may attract metallic items. To reduce the potential risk of sparks and resulting property damage or possible injury, make sure that the wireless adapter and charging puck and Controller are free of metallic objects before connecting."

Analysis: reading manuals is fundamental

The trouble with manuals, of course, is: who reads them? Many don't — it's just human nature not to bother — but this is quite an important nugget of information to skip over.

Even if you do read it, there is the possibility that other people in your house — or visitors, even — will not be at all aware of this potential issue, and could put something metallic down next to the charging puck without realizing what might happen.

Which begs the question: should Valve have designed the charging puck better? That point is raised in the Reddit thread, and the original poster observes that Valve's hardware isn't the only device that has this issue. They note that the Xbox Elite Series 2 controller has a similar exposed pin design, but that the charging dock has a raised ridge around the pins that makes it harder for accidental direct contact to happen.

Valve could have made a similar move, then, or, as others suggest, used some sort of a 'handshake' to make sure the controller is the attached device before sending power over from the puck.

We've asked Valve for a comment on this issue and will update this article if we hear back from the company.

MSI Versa 300 Wireless 8K review

The MSI Versa 300 Wireless 8K is a gaming mouse with a pro level spec and some useful features. Despite this, it also has a pretty competitive price.

There's nothing spectacular or gamerish about the way it looks, maintaining as it does a relatively understated aesthetic. There’s only a small logo that allows some subtle RGB lighting to pass through.

In the hand, I found the Versa 300 more bulbous than I’m accustomed to, with a more prominent hump in the middle. However, I adjusted quickly to the shape and found it comfortable thereafter. In fact, it actually fitted my palm as well as the best gaming mouse shapes.

This fit also helps to impart a secure feeling, making me confident in performing lift-offs. This is further aided by the concave side walls and their diamond grip pattern. It’s a shame, though, that this grip area isn’t made from a soft touch material like silicone or rubber; it merely adopts the same smooth plastic as the rest of the unit. Regardless, I still found it provided sufficient grip and feedback.

The Versa 300 is quite a light mouse, weighing just 66g, which makes it easy to maneuver. However, there are certainly lighter mice around, and what’s more the weight doesn’t feel evenly distributed. Most of its mass seems to be concentrated near the rear, which can cause the whole unit to tilt backwards when lifting off. At least the Versa 300 feels solid and durable, which is always a positive. The body material feels smooth and upmarket, too, belying its budget price tag.

In action, the Versa 300 is quite impressive. The first aspect I noticed was just how smoothly it glided. This surprised me, given the PTFE skates are quite small compared to those on more premium gaming mice.

The included USB cable is braided and quite long, which makes it amenable to a wide variety of setups. It’s also quite light, although it still adds a small but noticeable element of drag to movements. The connection to the USB-C port is as solid as I could’ve wished for, so I wasn’t concerned about accidentally yanking it out.

The Omron mechanical switches feel satisfying enough, but they’re a little heavier and travel a little further than those on more elite gaming mice. This makes them feel less snappy. I still found them just about light enough for competitive play, but more serious head clickers might find them too sluggish for their needs.

The scroll wheel is somewhat unusual, due to its prominent, spiky finish. Far from being uncomfortable, though, I found this texture pleasing and it provided good feedback.

The middle click is also very satisfying, feeling more like a true button press than many others, thanks to its long travel and definitive thud when actuated. It’s probably one of the best middle clicks I’ve experienced.

However, the notching of the wheel is a little too light for my tastes, making it somewhat harder to judge single flicks compared to others. There’s no free scroll or tilt scroll feature, either, which some premium gaming mice get.

MSI Center, the brand’s peripheral software, is simple to use and laid out clearly. There is a reasonable amount of adjustments here, including five customizable levels for the DPI selector, ranging from 100 to 26,000, as well as rebinding options.

These are quite limited, though. You can only swap inputs around, assign media playback controls, and trigger macros (a fairly basic macro recording facility is included). It’s a shame you can’t customize the RGB lighting from here; for that, you’ll need to download another app, Portal X, which just creates more inefficiency.

You can enable more advanced features, such as Motion Sync and Angle Snapping, as well as alter the debounce time between 0ms and 30ms (in increments of 1ms). You can also adjust the lift-off distance, but this only has two settings: low and high.

Battery life is also excellent. After using the mouse consistently for several days, in both Bluetooth and 2.4GHz modes, it only dropped around 10-15%. I didn’t experience any connectivity issues, either, with the two wireless modes maintaining a stable, lag-free signal.

Other gaming mice may have a greater selection of advanced performance based features, but it’s hard to complain about their absence in the Versa 300, given its competitive pricing. There aren’t many in this sector that offer a top-draw spec for so little, making it a compelling pick for those on a budget.

MSI Versa 300 Wireless 8K review: Price & availability

• $99.99 / £59.99 (about AU$140)
• Available now
• Well-priced for its spec

The MSI Versa 300 Wireless 8K costs $99.99 / £59.99 (about AU$140) and is available now in black only. It comes with a braided USB cable but no grip tape or spare skates.

Considering its spec, the Versa 300 is well-priced. There aren’t many gaming mice at this price point offering dual wireless connectivity modes, an 8K polling rate, and advanced tweaks.

It’s significantly cheaper than the Razer DeathAdder V4 Pro, which is one of our current favorites in the sector. But the Razer has more advanced software, granting you access to more adjustments and functions. We also loved its snappy mouse clicks, an area where the Versa 300 falls short.

However, if you’re after a truly budget gaming mouse, it’s hard to beat the Cooler Master MM311. We found it performed much better than it had any right to. It may lack multiple connectivity modes and a rechargeable battery, but you can’t really get better performance for less.

Should I buy the MSI Versa 300 Wireless 8K?

Scorecard

Buy it if…

Don't buy it if…

MSI Versa 300 Wireless 8K review: Also consider

How I tested the MSI Versa 300 Wireless 8K

• Tested for several days
• Used for a variety of games and tasks
• Extensive gaming mouse experience

I tested the Versa 300 for several days, during which time I used it for gaming, working, and general productivity. I used all of its connectivity methods with two different Windows PCs.

I played a variety of games, from fast-paced shooters such as Counter-Strike 2, where speed and precision matter most, to games requiring a more considered and versatile and more encompassing mouse functionality, such as Subnautica 2.

I’ve been PC gaming for over a decade, and have experienced many gaming mice in that time. I’ve also reviewed a large number of them, from budget offerings to pro-level and feature-packed premium models.

• Read more about how we test
• First reviewed: May 2026

• Multiple users online have discovered a Steam Controller easter egg
• The Steam Controller lets out a Wilhelm scream when dropped
• It's unclear how Valve implemented this, but it may be via a built-in speaker or haptic motors

Valve's Steam Controller is highly regarded as one of the best PC controllers available for many reasons, and another one has just been added to the list to further justify its high ranking.

On Reddit, users have discovered that a Steam Controller easter egg, as the controller quite literally lets out a Wilhelm scream when dropped. The Wilhelm scream is a famous stock sound effect used throughout cinema – often when minor characters are falling to their doom. It can be heard in films such as Star Wars, Indiana Jones, The Lord Of The Rings and many, many others. Below, you can hear a few examples.

This feature has already been corroborated by several other users and PC Gamer.

This is no game-changing feature by any means, but it simply serves as a funny addition and one of the most unique gimmicks I've ever seen with any gaming accessory. Valve seemingly wants every Steam Controller user to treat the controller with care — but I suppose we'll all want to drop it at least once, just to see what it's like.

It's also not exactly clear how Valve has even made this possible — could it be the spirit of the original Wilhelm scream is living inside the controller? Probably not, but I'd wager there's likely a built-in speaker muffled by the controller's casing (which would explain why it's fairly quiet) or haptic motors, which can produce sound.

Apparently, the new Steam Controller sometimes does the Wilhelm scream when dropped while in Big Picture Mode. from r/Steam

It's a goofy feature, sure, but it's yet another small bonus on why the Steam Controller is critically acclaimed, especially for PC players and those eyeing the upcoming Steam Machine, which may be imminent after facing delays due to the RAM crisis.

Unfortunately, the Steam Controller isn't easily accessible as it stands, due to scalpers effectively forcing Valve to introduce a reservation system to buy one, but I'm willing to wait patiently in the queue.

It will join my 8BitDo Ultimate 2 controller as my go-to when using my main gaming PC, SteamOS-dedicated (actually Bazzite) gaming PC, and my Nintendo Switch 2. Now, if you will excuse me, I'll resume my task of keeping an eye out for my reservation email.

PlayStation is no stranger to limited-edition or fresh colorway accessories, and maybe no product gets that treatment more than the DualSense Wireless Controller. For many, the unique designs and fresh looks let you match the controller to whatever game you’re playing — or even your personality.

While I am still holding out hope for a 30th Anniversary DualSense restock, PlayStation’s recent drop, which debuted back in March 2025, is bursting with color and might even have gotten its inspiration from the Icon Blue edition that dropped in late 2025.

The Hyperpop Collection is a clan of three PS5 pads: Techno Red, Remix Green, and Rhythm Blue. So while the names might make you think of Rock Band or Guitar Hero, PlayStation’s team shared that these designs are all about bursts of color and are inspired by the impressive RGB-lit setups many players use.

Essentially, these pops of color extend from your setup — or even the screen of some of your favorite PS5 games — into your hands via the DualSense Controller. Neither the Techno Red, Remix Green, nor Rhythm Blue gets a full paint job, though. Rather, each is presented more like a gradient, with the bottom half of the controller getting the vibrant treatment while the top remains black.

Even though the paint job doesn’t cover the entirety of the controller, these really do stand out thanks to the glossy finish across all three. The result is a smooth-feeling controller, which may or may not be the best fit for you, as it lacks some of the texture found on other DualSense Controllers.

These do have a certain amount of sparkle and spectacle to them. I especially like the Rhythm Blue. As the vibrant blue starts to fade to black, I really liked the tapering effect PlayStation accomplished here as well.

Remix Green, as you can see from the photos above, has some more yellow undertones, making it effectively a lime-green. Remix Red is likely the runner-up in my books, offering a really nice shade of red that any fan of Spider-Man or Marvel would likely jive quite well with.

If you’re after an eye-catching DualSense Controller, though, and your favorite color is green, red, or blue, you really can’t go wrong with this set. And if you’re really after a full-circle look, PlayStation offers matching PS5 covers in the same shades.

PlayStation’s DualSense Controllers in Hyperpop Techno Red, Remix Green, and Rhythm Blue are available for $84.99 / £74.99 / AU$134.99 at major retailers. I’ll include a few links for them below, but it looks like all three are sticking around for a while.

Hyperpop DualSense Collection in the US

Hyperpop DualSense Collection in the UK

• RIG has revealed the R8 Spectre Pro gaming headset
• There are two models available, one for PlayStation and the other for Xbox
• They cost $179.99 (around £130 / AU$250) and have a decent feature set

Gaming accessory brand RIG has revealed a new wireless gaming headset, the R8 Spectre Pro. Designed to deliver "studio-grade" audio, the company claims the headset has been "purpose-built for competitive gaming" and offers sound that's "custom-tuned for first-person shooters" and enhances key audio cues in-game.

There are two models available: the R8 Spectre Pro HX and R8 Spectre Pro HS. The HX variant is intended for Xbox, while the HS version is a licensed PlayStation accessory. In addition to their respective consoles, both models work with PC, Nintendo Switch 2, and mobile.

Both of them have 40mm graphene drivers and over 60 hours of battery life. They also come bundled with an RGB-illuminated charging base station and include a 16-bit / 48kHz resolution cardioid boom microphone.

The HX has Dolby Atmos 3D audio support and includes a lifetime subscription to the Dolby Access app, while the HS is tuned for PlayStation's Tempest 3D Audio on compatible platforms.

Although the default sound profile has been designed with competitive online games in mind, you can tweak the sound in the compatible RIG Navigator mobile app.

Like the recently released RIG R5 Max HD, the R8 Spectre Pro can be customized with magnetic ear cushions and modified earcup plates thanks to the brand's 'Snap+Lock' system.

All in all, they sound like decent packages - especially if the audio quality can deliver. That said, at the mid-range price of $179.99 (that's around £130 / AU$250), they have some pretty stiff competition in some of the best wireless gaming headsets like the SteelSeries Arctis Nova 7 and Logitech Astro A20 X.

Sony Inzone H6 Air: two-minute review

True to its name, the new Sony Inzone H6 Air wired gaming headset is incredibly lightweight. Coming in at just 7oz / 199g (and only slightly more with the detachable cardioid microphone attached), it’s among the lightest gaming headsets on the market.

This isn’t just impressive on the spec sheet either; when paired with the wonderfully soft earcups, it easily creates one of the most comfortable headsets I’ve tested. You can wear the Sony Inzone H6 Air for hours at a time with minimal fatigue. In fact, it’s easy to forget that you’re even wearing it at all.

Sony hasn’t made many compromises to achieve that impressively slight weight either. The overall design is very similar to the equally superb Sony Inzone H9 2, albeit with numerous holes in the aluminum outer earcup shells to create an open back. Under the hood, the Sony Inzone H6 Air packs the same drivers as Sony’s open-back MDR-MV1 studio monitor headphones, which is known for excellent sound. Studio monitor headphones are generally quite flat, but the drivers have been specifically adapted for gaming with enhanced bass.

The sound is far from unbalanced, though, and I’d argue that the default profile is pretty much perfect for almost all uses. The open-back design creates a lovely, wide soundstage that adds a real depth to gaming audio. Every time I fired a weapon in a match of Battlefield Redsec, the soft clink of spent bullet casings was impressively life-like and sounded just like it existed in a real 3D space.

The Inzone H6 Air is still good for music listening and more general use, too, as the bass isn’t overly strong in its default configuration. Jumping into the compatible Inzone Hub software lets you customize the equalizer (EQ) profiles and save them to the included USB-C audio box for use across console platforms.

Although I stuck with the default settings for the most part (finding them to be by far the most balanced), the ‘RPG/Adventure’ profile (designed in collaboration with the PlayStation Studios team) is a highlight — enabling an immersive spatial effect that’s perfect for getting lost in vast virtual worlds.

Sadly, this is pretty much the only reason to touch the software, as the few other features it offers aren’t particularly compelling. The aggressive bass boost mode is frankly unlistenable, while the dedicated first-person shooter (FPS) settings seem a tad unnecessary when the strong directional sound already gives you a decent advantage in competitive settings. The software’s dedicated 360 spatial mode is also highly unpleasant, creating an unconvincing surround effect at the cost of rendering all sound incredibly tinny and weak.

These software shortcomings are only minor gripes, though. At the end of the day, you’re still getting absolutely amazing audio right out of the box.

Sony Inzone H6 Air review: price & availability

• $199 / £175 / around AU$330
• Mid-range price for high-end components
• Strong value proposition

The Sony Inzone H6 Air is priced at $199 / £175 / around AU$330, putting it in the mid-range market segment. It is slightly more expensive than the Turtle Beach Atlas Air — another open-back model designed for gaming, which costs $179.99 / £159.99 / AU$299 but lacks the premium materials of the Sony headset.

Sharing its studio-grade drivers with the MDR-MV1, the Sony Inzone H6 Air also has significantly stronger audio chops. Better still, Sony’s Inzone offering is roughly half the price of its MDR-MV1, making for a strong value proposition.

Sony Inzone H6 Air review: specs

Sony Inzone H6 Air review: design and features

• Similar design to the Sony Inzone H9 2
• Intuitive controls
• Premium materials

There’s a tendency for particularly lightweight products to feel cheap, but that’s far from the case with the Sony Inzone H6 Air. Its design is similar to the sleek and stylish Sony Inzone H9 2, maintaining the same overall shape and a winning headband that offers a good level of adjustment. The main difference between the two is the perforated shells on the outside of the H6 Air’s earcups, which are constructed from a premium, sturdy-feeling aluminum.

These holes are what make the H6 Air an open-back headset and allow for a much wider, more natural-feeling soundstage than closed-back designs. There are some caveats inherent with all open-back models, though, namely the tendency for background noise to seep through. Sound also leaks out of the headset through these holes, so it’s not a design you’ll want to wear in a public setting.

The on-board controls are very basic but highly intuitive, with everything located on the left earcup. There’s a big clicky microphone mute button (with a distinct bumpy texture that makes it easy to find without looking), volume dial, 3.5mm audio input, and a 3.5mm port for the detachable cardioid microphone. My headset came with the volume dial cranked down all the way to mute, so don’t panic if your model doesn’t make any sound when you first plug it in — fiddle around with it for a moment and set it to your desired level.

The headset comes bundled with a USB-C audio box — a little dongle that can save any settings you create in the Inzone Hub software and allow you to bring them over to your console or phone. It seems to be the same audio box included with the Inzone E9 in-ear gaming headphones, which offer similar functionality.

Sony Inzone H6 Air review: performance

• Pristine audio
• Ideal for gaming and audio listening
• Background noise can be an issue

Unlike most gaming headsets, the Sony Inzone H6 Air has quite a neutral sound profile. There is some level of punchy bass, but unlike some gaming models, it’s never overpowering.

Clarity and directionality seem to have been the goal for Sony here, and the Inzone H6 Air excels on both fronts. This is most obvious when listening to music, as the impressively wide soundstage allows for excellent instrument separation.

In a gaming context, every individual sound effect is clearly defined, even in moments of intense action. Dropping into a match of Call of Duty: Black Ops 7 on the hectic Nuketown 2025 map, I was pleased to find that enemy footsteps were easy to track despite an abundance of gunfire, explosions, and other loud audio cues.

The same was true in a few matches of Battlefield Redsec, where the clean, crisp sound gave me a newfound appreciation for the game’s high-fidelity weapon effects.

It’s not just great for FPS titles, either; the Sony Inzone H6 Air excels at a wide variety of genres. Modern open-world role-playing games (RPGs) are a particular treat, especially ones that already benefit from strong sound design.

Wandering 16th-century Japan in Assassin’s Creed Shadows showcased this well; the game’s strong atmosphere was elevated by perfectly reproduced details like the faint trickle of running water from nearby rivers and the subtle rustlings of trees in the wind. Enabling the ‘RPG/Adventure’ profile in the Inzone Hub software kicks all of this into overdrive, adding an extra layer of directionality to the sound.

The included microphone is great too. It won’t replace a premium standalone model, but it captures your voice and does a decent job of drowning out background noise. You still won’t want to use this headset in loud environments, though, as it lets in a lot of background sound.

You can hear your own voice clearly while chatting with friends, keyboard taps, and any passing sirens. This is an inevitable trade-off in any open-back model. I think the sound quality on offer more than makes up for it here, but it will make the Sony Inzone H6 Air a poor choice for some.

If you need strong noise cancellation, consider the Sony Inzone H9 2 (which boasts some effective ANC) instead.

Should I buy the Sony Inzone H6 Air?

Buy it if…

Don’t buy it if…

Sony Inzone H6 Air review: also consider

Here are two other great headsets to consider alongside the Sony Inzone H6 Air.

How I tested the Sony Inzone H6 Air

• Used for over a week
• Tested with a wide range of games
• Compared to other gaming headsets

I tested the Sony Inzone H6 Air ahead of its official reveal, going hands-on with a unit for more than a week. During that time, I used it extensively for work (that meant plenty of meetings), play, and music listening.

I tried the headset with a wide range of games from a variety of genres, including racing in Forza Horizon 5 and Need for Speed Unbound, FPS with Call of Duty: Black Ops 7 and Battlefield Redsec, and RPG in Assassin’s Creed Shadows.

Although the majority of my time spent with the headset was on PC, I also used it with my PlayStation 5, mobile phone, Xbox Series X, and Nintendo Switch 2 to assess its compatibility.

Read more about how we test

First reviewed April 2026

• Plaion Replai and SNK have announced a new retro console
• The Neo Geo AES+ brings back the seriously pricey '90s system
• This re-release costs $249.99 / £179.99 / AU$329.99 and launches on November 12, 2026

Retro video game brand Plaion Replai has announced a new retro console in collaboration with publisher SNK, and it's a revival of the infamously expensive Neo Geo AES.

Originally released in the 1990s, the Neo Geo AES was basically the PlayStation 5 Pro of its age - a luxury enthusiast console aimed at the most hardcore gamers. One of the most powerful consoles on the market at the time, it retailed for $649.99 in the US, which is roughly just over $1,600 in today's money when adjusted for inflation.

Luckily, its modern incarnation, the Neo Geo AES+, which is set to hit shelves on November 12 this year, is considerably cheaper at $249.99 / £179.99 / AU$329.99. It maintains the exact look of the original console and doesn't rely on emulation. Rather, it's powered by re-engineered ASIC chips that should deliver an experience as close to the original hardware as possible.

Despite this, the Neo Geo AES+ has been upgraded with a number of quality-of-life features, namely the addition of a modern HDMI display output, though CRT owners will undoubtedly be pleased to hear that the original AV output is still there too.

There's also an overclocking mode, language selection switches, and the ability to save high scores with a compatible memory card accessory.

Loads of classic Neo Geo games are being re-released too, including the original Metal Slug, King of Fighters 2002, Garou: Mark of the Wolves, and more. I'm particularly keen to try Twinkle Star Sprites, a top-down shooter with some adorably colorful graphics.

The titles I've named all retail for $89.99 / £69.99 / AU$139.99 a pop, which is pretty pricey for such old games, but still significantly cheaper than buying most of the original cartridges second-hand. They'll also work with the original Neo Geo AES.

• Sony has announced new Inzone products
• This includes the open back Inzone H6 Air wired gaming headset
• It is also updating its Inzone M10S monitor with the enhanced Inzone M10S 2

Sony is expanding its Inzone hardware brand with a slate of new products, including an incredibly light wired gaming headset with some serious audio chops and a revised version of one of its best gaming monitors.

The new Inzone H6 Air wired gaming headset is the star of today's reveals, offering an open-back design and an overall weight of just 199g — placing it among the lightest headsets on the market. Visually, it looks quite similar to the existing Inzone H9 2 Wireless, though with perforated aluminium earcup shells.

Designed for the highest level of detail in games, they headset is powered by the same drivers as Sony's acclaimed MDR-MV1 open-back studio monitor headphones which has been specially adapted for enhanced bass. Despite this, they're significantly cheaper than the MDR-MV1, which costs around $400 / £340 at just £175 (that's roughly $170).

The headset comes bundled with a removable cardioid microphone in addition to a USB-C audio box that enables compatibility with the company's Inzone Hub PC software. In addition to a range of other settings, this offers a dedicated single-player 'RPG/Adventure' that was crafted with sound designers from the team at PlayStation Studios.

This headset is also officially recommended by Death Stranding 2: On the Beach developer Kojima Productions.

Open-back headphones are favored in professional audio environments thanks to their reputation for producing high clarity sound on a more natural soundstage.

Such designs do come at the cost of sound isolation, though, and allow any background noise in. They also leak sound, making them unsuitable for use in public settings.

The best esports monitor gets better?

The reveal of the Inzone H6 Air comes alongside that of the new Inzone M10S 2 gaming monitor, an enhanced version of the existing M10S.

The changes here are subtle, with the biggest being the jump to a new 540Hz refresh rate (up from an already staggeringly smooth 480Hz) and a 0.02ms GtG response time (as opposed to the original's 0.03ms GtG speed). You can even now run it at 720Hz if you drop down to an HD resolution.

The screen has also been outfitted with a new anti-glare film coating, which should help in bright environments. On top of this, the stand has been enhanced with a wider tilt range of -5 to 35 degrees for a little more flexibility.

We gave the original Sony Inzone M10S a full five-star score in our review back in September 2024, praising its elegant and functional design while saying that the spec sheet "justifies its price tag by offering everything that an esports player, or aspiring competitor, could need."

The Inzone M10S 2 will go for £1,199 (around £1,600), which is the same price the old model was back at launch.

• Valve's new Steam Controller could be releasing before the Steam Machine
• A new public import record shows Valve has a 'wireless PC controller' shipment, with multiple packages
• An early Steam Controller launch could massively benefit PC users planning custom Steam Machine builds

Gamers are still awaiting the launch of Valve's Steam Machine, which has been delayed from an early 2026 launch as previously promised by the company. However, its most important accessory could be in gamers' hands very soon.

As reported by VideoCardz, Valve's Steam Controller could launch very soon without the Steam Machine, according to Valve insider Brad Lynch. This isn't mere speculation, as Lynch spotted a public import record showing a large batch of a 'wireless PC controller' coming from China.

The VideoCardz report highlights that Valve's shipment record, presumably of the Steam Controller, includes 40 packages weighing 12,970 kg, but it's still not exactly clear how many units are in the shipment.

What is clear from this public record is that Valve is at the very least preparing the controller's launch for consumers much earlier than the Steam Machine's eventual launch date — or, the highly anticipated console-like PC is already having bundle preparations (since the Steam Controller will come with the Steam Machine).

The Steam Machine is still slated for launch in 2026, but the memory and storage crises are as active as ever, ultimately forcing the hands of Valve and other reputable PC hardware companies to restrategize plans for product sales.

However, an early launch of the Steam Controller may be a good move as a head start, specifically for those looking to build a custom Steam Machine using either SteamOS or Bazzite (effectively a SteamOS clone).

Official SteamOS compatibility on PC hardware is also expected to be strengthened once the Steam Machine launches, and if the controller's launch truly is imminent, it will help both SteamOS and, notably, Windows users on Steam become accustomed to its double-trackpad layout.

The best-case scenario would be a surprise reveal from Valve with an official Steam Machine launch date, but with the unstable state of the PC hardware market, that's certainly wishful thinking.

It’s been a pretty big year for Nintendo’s Italian plumber so far. We’re in the midst of his 40th birthday celebrations, we recently had Mar10 Day, we just got Super Mario Bros. Wonder – Nintendo Switch 2 Edition + Meetup In Bellabel Park, and right now, the Super Mario Galaxy Movie is playing in theaters.

In light of this Mario-crazy year, then, game accessory manufacturer Turtle Beach has released some Switch 2 gear that’s centered around Nintendo’s most iconic character. And what do you know, I’ve been lucky enough to get my hands on some of these new Nintendo Switch 2 accessories myself.

Specifically, I’ve been able to test a new version of the Turtle Beach Rematch Wireless Controller for Nintendo Switch 2, which features both Mario and Luigi, as well as a Mario-themed version of the Turtle Beach Airlite Fit Wired Gaming Headset. And even though these come in at fairly modest price-points — especially compared to first-party alternatives — I’ve had a pretty good time with both so far.

And so, I’m here to tell you about my time with Turtle Beach’s newly released Switch 2 accessories, and reveal the five things that surprised me the most about them. Interested? Of course you are — so let’s-a-get into my list!

Rematch Wireless Controller: terrific TMR thumbsticks

Given that the official Nintendo Switch 2 Pro Controller does not feature Hall Effect or similar tech, I was wowed to see the Rematch’s inclusion of TMR thumbsticks.

These TMR thumbsticks provide strong responsiveness and precision, and also reduce your chances of encountering stick drift. When I previously reviewed the Rematch, I already appreciated the fluid, smooth feel of the thumbsticks, and as you’d expect, they’re a hit once more on this Mario Bros-adorned model.

Turtle Beach’s controller is on the market for around $20 / £20 / AU$20 less than the official Pro Controller, and so I really wasn’t expecting to see a feature like TMR thumbsticks, but it’s easily one of this model’s key selling points.

Rematch Wireless Controller: bountiful battery life

Talking of key selling points, it’s really hard to look past the Rematch controller’s battery life. That’s right, Turtle Beach claims that you get as much as 40 hours of playtime from this model, which is ideal for people like me who always forget to charge their gadgets.

I’ve been using the Mario Bros. version of the Rematch controller to fuel my full-blown and semi-problematic addiction to Pokémon Pokopia as of late. And I have to say, that 40-hour figure seems accurate in my experience — I’ve barely had to re-juice the battery.

That 40-hour amount is also equal to the costlier official Switch 2 Pro Controller, which we currently rate as the top controller in our guide to the best Nintendo Switch 2 accessories.

AirLite Fit Wired Gaming Headset: a shockingly low price

Let’s move on over to the AirLite Fit now, a wired headset which is optimized for Nintendo Switch 2. And one thing shocked me about this Mario-equipped gear right out of the gate: its exceptionally low price.

That’s right, this headset comes in at just $27.99 / £19.99, making it an incredibly budget-friendly option. Considering that you get a noise-cancelling microphone, adjustable headband, and generously padded earcups, that’s not a bad price at all. Of course, you don’t get the convenience of wireless connectivity, and the 40mm drivers won’t provide the most crystal clear sound quality you’ve ever heard, but for less than $30 / £20, that’s to be expected.

Given that the officially licensed PowerA Wired Earbuds for Nintendo Switch 2 have a list price of $24.99 / £19.99, it seems as if Turtle Beach’s headset is priced very generously indeed.

AirLite Fit Wired Gaming Headset: genuinely solid mic quality

I was delighted to see that the AirLite Fit had a noise-cancelling mic, and I made sure to put it to the test for video calls, voice recording tests, and for GameChat.

Although you won’t get the most technologically sophisticated noise canceling ever on the Airlite Fit, background noises are certainly dimmed to a decent effect. In addition, I was very pleased to hear little to no background static when recording my voice — something a lot of cheap headsets fall foul of. More generally, my voice was clear, and my speech sounded well-defined, rather than muddy or tinny.

I also love how the headset's mic is flip-to-mute, meaning you simply flick it upwards and your friends — or indeed enemies — will be unable to hear you. Not bad, eh?

Rematch & AirLite Fit: their personality-filled designs

Let’s bring these Mario-themed accessories together for a moment, and talk about something they both nail: their eye-catching designs.

Now, a lot of budget accessories have a plain black build and struggle to stand out in a fairly convoluted market. But Turtle Beach’s new accessories surprised me with vibrant, personality-filled designs that are genuinely a joy to behold.

I’ll start with the controller, and while Mario and Luigi aura-farming while standing back-to-back caught my eye, it was something else that really piqued my interest. See, when the model is in use, a bunch of Super Mario power-ups light up across the face of the controller, including mushrooms, stars, boomerangs, shells…you name it! You can even cycle between four different lighting modes, which keeps things fresh.

As for the AirLite fit, I’m a fan of the semi-translucent design, as well as the inclusion of Mario on each earcup. The red and black colorway is enticing as well, and mirrors how the Switch 2 console has an understated design with tasteful pops of color.

Both accessories look great, in my view, and they surpassed my expectations in many areas. Oh, and they’re both compatible with the original Nintendo Switch as well as its successor, making them readily available to a whole lot of players.

It is preview-season for Riftbound’s upcoming Unleashed set — which launches in China on April 10 and in English on May 8 — and I have not one but two exclusive new cards to showcase for you today.

This pair looks set to cement themselves as solid limited environment picks — such as the excellent Pre-Rift events I’d strongly recommend you attend — though I could see both, especially our first card Blast Cone, being solid utility pieces in the right constructed deck.

There's a lot of strong text on Blast Cone. Forcibly moving an enemy unit is a potent defensive and offensive ability, and that latter option is amplified by this card’s secondary effect to also stun what it moves if you exhaust Blast Cone — as a stunned unit can’t deal damage in combat.

Crucially, Blast Cone’s stun effect happens whenever you move an enemy — not simply when you move it with Blast Cone — so it can seriously amplify the likes of Blitzcrank Impassive, Charm, and Temptation.

The cost seems somewhat reasonable for this card too — four plus recycling a Chaos rune — though like other enemy move effects, a major drawback this card has is you can’t play Blast Cone as an Action or Reaction — meaning you’d have to telegraph your combat plans by playing this before a Showdown rather than during one.

There’s not yet a Champion and Legend pairing — ideally in Calm and Chaos flavors — to form the basis of a synergistic deck around moving your foes to disrupt their plans and push your own strategy, but I feel it won’t be long before we see one with cards like this being printed. When we do, I can see Blast Cone being a staple in that deck.

I could also see it working with a card that lets you bring in Gear as an Action or Reaction; there’s possible synergy with effects like Factory Recall, and also synergy with Malzahar or Jayce, who want you to have friendly gear around to sacrifice.

That’s all to say there’s potential for Blast Cone, but for now, I worry it's homeless.

A nihilistic adventurer returns

Next, we have a cute little common with Mister Root. The nihilistic character returns from the Legends of Runterra, but instead of card draw, this little guy helps with the new XP mechanic.

This resource, being introduced in Unleashed, can be accrued through various card effects and then spent to perform effects or held to level up certain cards. For my fellow Magic: The Gathering players, it's a bit like Energy with some Riftbound twists to make it feel fresh.

Given Mister Root’s Chaos identity, its home is in Kha’Zix decks — a new Champion and Legend who cares about XP, and the only one with Chaos flavoring so far. When Mister Root moves to a battlefield, you’ll get 2XP, and you can then spend that in the showdown you’re entering (provided you have a little extra XP in your bank) to use Kha’Zix Evolving Hunter’s ability — which lets you spend 3XP to deal damage equal to Kha'Zix's might to an enemy unit at its location.

Or you could rely on Kha’Zix’s Legend to use 1XP to buff Mister Root or another Unit.

In a limited environment like Pre-Rift, Mister Root will be a useful Common for any XP decks I expect. Its rarity will make it a reliable pick up, and its low cost coupled with its Accelerate effect, could help you accrue XP at just the right moment to inch out a victory.

In constructed formats, Mister Root seems like a solid Kha’Zix, as I’ve mentioned, but with so few XP cards revealed at the time of writing, it’s tough to tell how potent this new strategy will be – and how well Mister Root will fit in. I’m rooting for the little guy, but we’ll need to wait and see what more Riot has in store for us.

Speaking of, if you want to check out all of the new Unleashed cards, you can head over to the official Card Gallery, as it updates with the latest sets’ goodies.

Turtle Beach PlayTrek Travel Case for Nintendo Switch 2: review

The Turtle Beach PlayTrek Travel Case for Nintendo Switch 2 is the definition of eye-catching. From the very moment this model entered my line of sight, I was instantly drawn to it. Its lenticular exterior… its Donkey Kong Country-inspired look… its leaf-green handle… I simply had to get my hands on it.

And now, I finally have it in my clutches – the coveted DK case. But just how good is Turtle Beach’s lightweight Switch 2 case? Pretty damn good, actually.

See, I’ve tested a lot of cases for Nintendo’s latest hybrid console, including some that sit in our guide to the best Nintendo Switch 2 accessories, and some that… well, aren’t quite up to scratch. But one thing has frustrated me with the bulk of these cases. They just lack the playfulness and personality I’d associate with Nintendo.

Of course, that’s not a problem for the PlayTrek Travel Case, which is licensed by Nintendo itself. The Donkey Kong variant I tested is attention-grabbing, includes bold greens and red details, and has lenticular art that reveals multiple layers of trees from different angles. It’s a great-looking item, and the most bodacious I’ve seen so far.

If you’re not all too big on the Kong, fear not. There’s a lenticular Mario Bricks alternative, featuring the Italian plumber himself, or more basic colorways like Charcoal Black and Stellar White.

We’ve spoken a fair bit about looks, but just how practical is the PlayTrek Case for Nintendo Switch 2? Well, first of all, I’m a big fan of the main compartment, which is fitted brilliantly for the Switch 2 console. It’s not too tight of a squeeze, but it’s also very secure. You can flap the middle compartment over your system, and hold it in place with its hook and loop fastener. If you ever drop your case, then your console should be safe.

I touched on that middle compartment, and I have to say, Turtle Beach nailed it here. It’s equipped with twelve game card slots, which can hold either Switch or Switch 2 games. These slots mold to your cartridges with ease, and when I gave the case an almighty shake, they didn’t fall out. Twelve slots is also very generous – I mean, even the official Nintendo Switch 2 Carrying Case only has six. Sure, Nintendo's official case isn't as bulky overall, but in turn, you do get more room for your gaming gear from the PlayTrek Travel Case.

The final compartment – situated under the roof of the case – is pretty neat too. It contains a zip-up pouch that can be used to store a charging cable, Switch 2 camera, or Joy-Con 2 grips, but it’s a little too small to house a dock or larger accessory like the Turtle Beach Rematch Wireless Controller for Nintendo Switch 2, for example. This compartment is padded, however, meaning you get even more protection for your system.

In general, the PlayTrek case feels very durable. It’s got an EVA hard shell design ensuring it can survive a fair few drops, and it’s wrapped in TPU-coated polyester, helping it to weather everyday wear. When dropping the case from waist height multiple times, I couldn’t see any indication of damage, although the lenticular cover was a little susceptible to marks like fingerprints – a minor issue in the grand scheme of things.

Right, after all of this, you’re probably wondering whether there’s a catch. For example, it’s probably expensive, right? Well… no, no it isn’t. The PlayTrek Travel Case is typically priced at $29.99 / £19.99 / AU$39, making it cheaper than Nintendo’s official case – a model with fewer game card slots, protection, and storage space. I’ve even seen it go on sale recently, too, with a price cut to just $24.99 / £16.99 in the US and UK at the time of writing. That’s amazing value for money.

So, here we are at the end of it all. Did Turtle Beach’s DK-themed case meet my expectations? No, it didn’t. It surpassed them. With a durable build, excellent low price, charismatic look, and astute storage, this case is ideal for on-the-go use. Sure, it’s not large enough to fit your dock, but there are different cases specialized for that, like the Nintendo Switch 2 All-In-One Carrying Case and Nacon Protection Case XL for Switch 2. Bravo, Turtle Beach, you weren’t monkeying around with this one.

Turtle Beach PlayTrek Travel Case for Nintendo Switch 2 review: price & specs

Should I buy the Turtle Beach PlayTrek Travel Case for Nintendo Switch 2?

Buy it if…

Don’t buy it if…

Turtle Beach PlayTrek Travel Case for Nintendo Switch 2 review: also consider

How I tested Turtle Beach PlayTrek Travel Case for Nintendo Switch 2

• Tested over the course of multiple days
• Took it with me to the office and performed durability tests
• Trialled by a Switch 2 owner and life-long gamer

I spent multiple days testing the Turtle Beach PlayTrek Travel Case for Nintendo Switch 2, taking it with me to the office for my workplace’s weekly Mario Kart World showdown.

During my time testing, I made sure to try filling the case with my Switch 2 system, games, and accessories, and performed durability tests to ensure the case performed its job effectively. I even compared it against my go-to model, the official Nintendo Switch 2 Carrying Case, on aspects like design, storage space, and ruggedness.

More generally, I’ve spent two years reviewing products here at TechRadar, and have lots of experience testing Nintendo Switch 2 accessories. I’ve tested a huge amount of cases, alongside screen protectors like the Genki Aegis Shield, cameras including the Hori Piranha Plant Camera for Nintendo Switch 2, and controllers like the Turtle Beach Rematch Wireless Controller.

• Read TechRadar’s reviews guarantee
• First reviewed: March 2026

Sony Inzone H9 2 Wireless: one-minute review

I had high hopes when the first Inzone H9 wireless headset landed on my desk. Sony, a company renowned for its audio clout, its exceptional studio-grade headphones and microphones, and outstanding modern noise cancelling, was developing a gaming headset at long last.

The thing is, though, it just wasn't good enough. This wasn't one of the best wireless gaming headsets money could buy, not by a long shot. Instead, what we got was a product that was so focused on gaming and ensuring that it looked like it came straight off a PS5 Pro production line, that it missed that critical ethos that defines all good headsets, aka top-notch audio.

The good news, then, is that the H9 2 does a complete 180 compared to its predecessor. Sony has flipped the switch in terms of that very mantra. Not only does it dial up the aesthetics way past 11, but it delivers outstanding audio quality no matter what noise you push through it on whatever platform you can think of. The microphone (now detachable) equally is light years ahead of the rather lackluster fixed one found in the original H9, and the comfort and ergonomic design likewise holds its head high.

The downsides? Battery life is still a pretty standard 30 hours (or a little less in my testing, albeit that is with ANC switched off), and we have seen a slight price increase compared to the first gen's launch RRP, which is also quite high, but literally that's it. Sony's gone above and beyond with this thing, and it really shows.

Sony Inzone H9 2 Wireless review: price & availability

• Costs $348 / £299 / around AU$489
• Available in both black and white
• $30 / £30 more than the Gen 1

There's no beating around the bush here; this is one seriously expensive wireless headset. Available now from most major retailers on either side of the pond, you can buy this directly from Sony's webstore too, and it's available in either a black or white finish.

There is a catch. It is exceptionally good, but you need to ask yourself if you're willing to pay for that quality and versatility, particularly given how competitive that market is right now with the likes of the Razer BlackShark V2 Pro and others still holding strong in that arena.

Sony Inzone H9 2 Wireless review: specs

Sony Inzone H9 2 Wireless review: design and features

• Much improved lightweight design
• Outstandingly classy style
• Wildly broad connectivity

This has to be one of the best-looking gaming headsets I've seen to date. There's something about that cord-wrapped adjustable headband that just screams modern to me, and it's quite difficult to pinpoint why that is. There's a Converse-esque, Levi’s vibe to it, regardless of whether it's in black or white (although the white model is certainly more striking with its high contrast black and white styling), that just resonates, blending modern-day outdoor style with a crisp gaming aesthetic.

It manages that all while being remarkably comfortable thanks to that ski-band style head rest, that's not too dissimilar to those found on the Steelseries Arctis Nova Pro Wireless and other such cans. What that does is make it remarkably comfortable over long periods of time, particularly given the weight comes in just shy of 260g without the microphone.

The earcups, too, are massive over-ear closed-back designs, complete with memory foam and soft padding, which are really over-engineered for what they are, but comfortable nonetheless.

As for connectivity, although you're still not blessed with modern Xbox support (perhaps unsurprising given the brand on offer here), there's practically every other medium you could muster. Bluetooth 5.3? Check, low-latency Wireless 2.4 GHz? Check. 3.5mm audio? Also, check (missing from the original model). It's just great to see.

As for the hardware inside, Sony's kitted this out with its WH-1000XM6 30mm carbon fiber composite dome drivers, the exact same ones found inside the legendary lifestyle headphones of the same name. I'll touch on why these are so good in just a second, but they're built around solid noise cancelling and ambient activation too, and it really pays off.

Sony Inzone H9 2 Wireless review: performance

• Excellent audio
• Outstanding microphone
• Standard battery life

So, good looks aside, how did it perform? Well in my time testing it audio quality was solid all around. The H9 2 has this almost reference sound-scape (or at least the sample I had) that really is quite clear over wireless. It's impressively balanced on the bottom-end, particularly for 30mm drivers; it's not too bass-heavy where it's drowning out the mids and the trebles, or the high-end, yet you still have enough there to hear those deeper notes, the thrum of explosions, and the kick of a bass drum. There's a lot to love, either with music or in-game.

It is theoretically meant to be an FPS gaming headset, but to be frank, I found the higher-end to be a bit too soft for that. Compared to some gaming headsets, it lacked the crispness required for you to really pick up on every footstep and every sound around you, despite the spatial audio and Windows' best efforts to muck that all up.

However, if you're looking for a highly versatile headset that's not only broad in its connectivity but also more than capable of delivering across multiple media and game genres, the H9 2 wireless checks all those boxes.

The microphone was on another level, too. I did some light testing in Audacity, recording voice-overs for comparison, and compared to my classic Shure 55SH Series 2, plumbed in via one of Elgato's XLR DACs, it was hard to tell the difference between them, much to my chagrin.

Noise cancelling is here as well, and it's more than enough to handle any busy home. It does eat into battery life, though, so do bear that in mind, as it's already kind of a bit average, which is again one of the few negatives, particularly given the price.

Still, for the money, this thing is stylish, potent, and remarkably adept for what it is, and compared to the first generation, on a whole other level.

Should I buy the Sony Inzone H9 2 Wireless?

Buy it if…

Don’t buy it if…

Sony Inzone H9 2 Wireless review: also consider

How I tested the Sony Inzone H9 2 Wireless

• Two weeks of continual use as a daily driver
• One week's use at the gym to test ANC
• Comparisons made to the original H9 Wireless

I spent a good two weeks with the Inzone H9 2, testing it in all manner of scenarios, gaming, and working at home. I also took on several day trips, replacing my traditional ANC headphones at the gym with them instead, to really see if it could hold up in a more public-facing environment.

On the gaming front, I tested it in a multitude of RTS and RPG games, including Total War: Warhammer 3, along with Stellaris, and The Witcher 3.

• First reviewed: February 2026
• Read more about how we test

• RIG has announced a new gaming headset, the R5 Max HD
• This wired model features Ora's GrapheneQ drivers and comes with an audio DAC dongle
• It boasts a unique 'Snap+Lock' system for easy customization

Nacon hardware brand RIG has unveiled the new R5 Max HD, which it calls "the ultimate wired gaming headset for competitive gaming on PC and console."

A premium model geared towards professional gamers and audiophiles, the RIG R5 Max HD features 40mm "studio-grade" GrapheneQ drivers by audio technology company Ora. These utilize a unique graphene layer that's intended to minimize distortion and help improve spatial audio performance.

It offers an extended frequency response of 20Hz - 40kHz (which goes far above the usual 20Hz - 20kHz range of human hearing) at an impressive 32-bit resolution when the headset is connected to the included USB-C audio DAC dongle. This DAC also enables Dolby Atmos support on compatible devices for more realistic spatial sound.

The headset comes fitted with a unidirectional microphone that Nacon describes as "broadcast grade."

Flashy drivers aside, these aren't particularly unique features in the world of audiophile gaming headsets. The Beyerdynamic MMX 330 Pro, for example, boasts a similar 5Hz - 40kHz frequency response and its own built-in mic, while wireless competitors like the Audeze Maxwell take things every further with larger 90mm planar magnetic drivers that deliver a 10hZ - 50kHz frequency range.

What sets the RIG R5 Max HD apart is its price, which is just $149.99 (roughly £110, though there's no UK release planned right now). That's substantially cheaper than both those competing models and, if the performance is similar, I could see the RIG R5 Max HD becoming one of the best wired gaming headsets today.

It also boasts a unique 'Snap+Lock' customization system that lets you swap out some parts for easy customization. You can even change the position of the microphone to be on either the left or right earcup, or remove it entirely for a sleeker look if you prefer.

For just under $150, the materials on offer here sound impressively premium too. The headset offers dual-material ear cushions (with easy removal for cleaning) plus memory foam cushioning around its metal headband.

The headset is available via Amazon from today.

• Turtle Beach has announced two new designs to celebrate Mar10 Day
• This includes a new wireless controller and wired gaming headset
• Both hit shelves on March 30, 2026, and are available to preorder now

Mar10 Day (or Mario Day), Nintendo's official celebration of all things Super Mario, is here, and gaming accessory maker Turtle Beach has revealed two new products to commemorate it.

They're both new variants of existing products: the Turtle Beach Rematch Wireless Controller and the Turtle Beach Airlite Fit Wired Gaming Headset. The controller is decked out in a new 'Mario & Luigi' design, and there are no prizes for guessing which characters are now emblazoned on it.

A cross-armed 3D render of Luigi sits on the left grip, with Mario in a similar position on the right one. The rest of the controller is a cheerful blue, aside from a colorful Super Mario logo and bright red thumbstick caps. It's a pretty basic design overall, but it does have some bright RGB lighting to liven it up.

It also boasts tunneling magnetoresistance (TMR) sensors in its thumbsticks, which should help increase its longevity and motion control support. For $64.99 / £64.99, it comes in handily cheaper than the console maker's $84.99 / £74.99 Nintendo Switch 2 Pro Controller, too.

The new 'Mario Star' Airlite Fit adds some cool translucent plastic to the lightweight wired headset's design, plus a little monochrome graphic of Mario and a Super Star on the earcup.

For the impressively budget-friendly price of $27.99 / £19.99, you shouldn't expect miracles from the sound, but it is powered by 40mm speakers and comes fitted with a flip-to-mute noise-cancelling mic.

Both products are available to preorder now via the Turtle Beach website and will hit store shelves on March 30, 2026.

• Asus has launched the ROG Cetra Open Wireless gaming earbuds
• They cost $229.99 / £174.99 and boast an open design
• The brand advertises them as "perfect" for gaming and fitness

Asus has launched a new pair of gaming earbuds, the ROG Cetra Open Wireless. They're the first open gaming earbuds from a major hardware brand and are billed as "perfect for gaming, music, and active lifestyles."

Open (or open-ear) earbuds are a relatively recent creation that have become increasingly popular in the last few years thanks to popular models from big audio brands like Bose and JBL. They hook around your ears with drivers that sit a few millimetres further away than regular in-ear earbuds, which usually fully seal the ear canal using a silicone tip.

This leaves your ear open, allowing for almost complete situational awareness and massively reducing fatigue. They're very comfortable to wear, and the ability to hear outside sounds like traffic makes them a good pick for outdoor sport and fitness.

They're not without some compromises though. The lack of a seal inevitably means that the ability to produce bass takes a massive hit and (although a few models like the Honor Earbuds Open do offer some form of active noise cancellation) the fact they let in so much sound can be a double edged sword if you want an immersive listening experience in a loud environment.

That's why it's so surprising to see a model geared towards gaming, a market where strong noise cancellation is the norm.

A good fit?

The Asus ROG Cetra Open Wireless boast 14.2mm diamond-like carbon coated drivers and support for the brand's 2.4GHz ROG SpeedNova technology via an included wireless dongle.

Bluetooth is offered as well, with dual-mode connectivity for seamless platform switching. Each earbud has a physical button on it, which Asus says will keep them fully responsive in the rain or "intense workouts." An included detachable neck strap even helps keep them in place while you're running.

The idea of a product that's geared towards both gaming and fitness is certainly unusual, and there don't actually seem to be that many gaming-specific features here.

Four microphones are built-in for chatting and there's customizable RGB lighting, of course, with an illuminated ROG logo on each bud. New browser-based Gear Link software that allows you to up the bass via a Phantom Bass setting or enable a more immersive sound mode but that seems to be your lot.

With battery life of roughly 16 hours, with an additional 48 hours in the charging case, you do at least get much more listening time than cheap non-gaming alternatives like the Huawei FreeArc.

The $229.99 / £174.99 asking price, right up there with the cost of some of the best wireless gaming headsets and substantially more than most of the best gaming earbuds, is definitely a tall order and I'm curious to see whether the benefits of an open design are enough to convince gamers to splash out.

Razer Enki Pro: One-minute review

The Razer Enki Pro is a premium, high-end gaming chair that provides you with immense comfort, to the point I would consider it one of the most comfortable gaming chairs I have ever sat in.

It offers exceptional lumbar support, even for those who enjoy sitting in weird positions in their chair - myself included. You get 4D armrests, which are a joy if you’re someone who prefers a certain position for typing and then another for gaming.

However, one of the major downsides here is the fact that it will set you back $999 / £999, which is double the cost of even some of the best gaming chairs on the market, like the Secretlab Titan Evo, which comes in at just $500 / £469.

At this hefty price point, you would expect a feature-packed seat with close to perfect ergonomics, but the Razer Enki Pro falls a tad short here. The Herman Miller x Logitech Embody gaming chair is another top-end premium seat, which comes with ergonomics designed to support your entire back and a 12-year warranty in comparison.

Another qualm I’ve got with the Razer Enki Pro, which is almost definitely more of a personal one, is the lack of style on offer from the chair here. It looks like a bog-standard gaming chair when it comes to colour, design and silhouette, which is a bit disappointing coming from Razer - whose products are typically very stylish.

Of course, this will be down to personal preference, but the hardback shell of the seat is just not for me.

Razer Enki Pro: Price and availability

• Costs $999 / £999 / AU$1799
• Pricey when compared to similar gaming chairs
• Only one colorway available

At just under $1000, the Razer Enki Pro is a pricey chair considering what’s on offer. Chairs that offer a similar feature set include the Secretlab Titan Evo 2022 and the AndaSeat Kaiser 3 XL, which both come in closer to the $500 mark.

You can pick up the Razer Enki Pro in North America, Europe, Asia Pacific and the Middle East. Stock is limited in other regions thanks to how large and heavy the chair is, which can make shipping difficult.

You can grab a couple of special editions for the Razer Enki Pro, including the Lamborghini, Williams Esports, or Koenigsegg editions, which come in at a higher price point of $1,299 / £1,299, but the base chair only comes in a black and green colourway.

The chair often goes on sale over at the Razer website, where you can typically grab the seat at $100 / £100 off making the value proposition a little better.

Razer Enki Pro: Specs

Razer Enki Pro: Design and aesthetics

• Extremely heavy
• 4D armrests
• Alcantara seat

One of the first things you’ll notice about the Razer Enki Pro, before even unboxing the chair, is the weight.

At around 30kg, this chair is extremely heavy, to the point that it feels weighty even when just moving it around or swivelling. While the weight does make the chair seem very heavy-duty, it can get annoying to constantly have to work hard to swivel the chair while you’re sitting in it, just because of how heavy it is.

A lot of this weight is likely down to the hard shell exterior of the seat, that isn’t my cup of tea in terms of style. It makes the chair appear bulky rather than sleek and slender, which is what I would prefer.

You have the benefit of 4D armrests, which is almost expected when spending this much on a gaming chair. These allow you to move the armrests completely so they can sit exactly as you like. They can be adjusted up and down, left and right, forwards and backwards, which makes this perfect for those who want their armrests a certain way for gaming and then another way for typing.

The Razer Enki Pro also comes with a 152-degree seat recline, which is pretty common in many gaming chairs. It also has weight-adjusted tilting, meaning you can lean back in the chair and it will adjust accordingly without the need for any manual adjustments.

I didn't use this feature very often because I’m currently trying my best to repair my absolutely awful posture by sitting up exceptionally straight all the time, but when I did decide to sit cross-legged in the seat, it was great to be able to comfortably lean back.

Something that sets the chair apart from alternatives on the market is the Alcantara leather, which feels like suede.

This is much harder wearing and moisture resistant when compared to typical leather, but still doesn’t absorb all of your sweat that some felt or cotton chairs do. Personally, I wasn’t a fan of the feel of the Alcantara, but again, this will be down to personal preference and taste.

In terms of the silhouette, you get 110-degree extended shoulder arches and a 21” base to allow for optimal weight distribution for long-lasting comfort and all-day gaming.

These wider shoulder arches make the chair suited to those who may have a wider frame, but it's worth noting that it has a maximum user weight of 136kg. You get built-in lumbar support - which isn’t adjustable - that encourages you to sit upright.

Razer Enki Pro: Comfort and adjustability

• Adjustable headrest
• Extremely comfortable
• Able to sit for long periods without strain

After constructing the chair, it was very quick and easy for me to determine that the Razer Enki Pro was one of the most comfortable chairs I have ever sat in. I typically find myself fidgeting a lot throughout the day, changing positions and trying to sit in weird ways just to feel comfortable, but this was an issue of the past - for the most part - with the Razer Enki Pro.

The lumbar support is pretty good; it would be nice to be able to adjust it to suit my back, but it still feels very comfortable even when I’m sitting at my desk all day long.

I feel content sitting in this chair for long periods of time without any strain. I often find myself getting up and stretching, and walking around every so often in my other chairs just because I feel achy and strained, but I didn’t need to do this in the Razer Enki Pro.

Of course, it's recommended to get up and move around at least once an hour if you’re sitting at a desk for long periods of time.

The one downside when it came to comfort was the headrest. It isn’t as well cushioned as I was expecting, so I ended up just removing it altogether. The headrest is magnetic, meaning that removing it or adjusting it is super simple, so no matter what your preference is, you’re able to get the headrest where you like it.

Razer Enki Pro: Assembly

• All tools in the box including a pair of gloves
• Very heavy box
• I’d recommend two people for assembly

When first unboxing and constructing the chair, I struggled a tad. I’ve built countless gaming chairs in my time, thanks to the never-ending stream of review seats, but the Razer Enki Pro takes the crown for being one of the heaviest chairs I’ve ever built.

However, it was very easy to put together in spite of that, with everything just sliding into place. It only needed eight screws to attach the back to the base of the seat, which was very simple, but lifting the actual base up and trying to slide it onto the guide rail was so difficult to do alone, and I needed to call in some help in order to do this.

While it could be done solo, I wouldn’t recommend it.

Should I buy the Razer Enki Pro?

Buy it if...

Don't buy it if...

Also consider...

If you’re not sold on the Razer Enki Pro or you just want to weigh up some other options then here’s how it compares to two other alternatives that we’ve reviewed.

How I tested the Razer Enki Pro

• Sat in all day for work and all evening for gaming
• Used for a month in total
• Compared to other gaming chairs

I spent all day, every day, using the Razer Enki Pro for a month, including working all day and gaming all evening.

I would sit in it for multiple hours at a time, including full working days. I would adjust the armrests and recline often to change seat positions or to relax in the evenings when I was gaming.

I compared my experience to multiple other gaming chairs I have reviewed over the years, right down to the build experience and design, to the features on offer and the comfort.

Read more about how we test

First reviewed January 2026

One-minute review

The GTPlayer LR002 is a budget-friendly gaming chair that hopes to match the comfort levels of costlier competition.

It’s less aggressive in its gamer stylings than many others in this sector. You could even call it smart, and my review unit’s light grey and blue finish helped to showcase the chair’s lighter side.

However, the fabric doesn’t look or feel especially premium, and neither do the solid materials employed throughout the LR002’s construction. It certainly won’t trouble the likes of the Secretlab et al in terms of build quality.

An area where it does compete with the best gaming chairs, though, is cushioning. Not only is the seat soft and plump, but so too are the arm rests and backrest, which makes the LR002 a comfortable chair to sink into. The lumbar and head pillows are less plush, but still provide me with sufficient support in the right areas.

Things take a turn for the worse, though, when it comes to adjustability. The LR002 lacks any form of adjustments for the arm rests, and there’s no rocking function: if you want to lean back, you can recline the backrest to your desired angle, but once there, you’re locked in.

The included footrest also disappoints, owing to its poor design and construction. It consistently failed to slide out smoothly, and even when fully retracted, I found it stopped far too short to be usable, even for someone of my short stature.

Taller gamers are also likely to be disappointed with the seat height range. Although it goes lower to the ground than many (something I often welcome), I imagine those six feet and over would find its maximum elevation too low.

Assembling the LR002 was mostly a straightforward process, thanks to the relatively light seat base and backrest. However, some of the bolts proved difficult to screw in fully, while the angles of some of the holes were awkward to reach.

With its reasonable price, the LR002 makes a compelling case in the budget gaming chair segment. It’s an even more attractive proposition with the huge discounts we’ve seen GTPlayer offer. However, if you’re tall or like plenty of adjustments in your seat, the LR002 is unlikely to satisfy.

GTPlayer LR002 review: Price and availability

• $159.99 / £149.99 / AU$703
• Available worldwide
• Cheap for a gaming chair

The GTPlayer LR002 costs $159.99 / £149.99 / AU$703 and is available now in most territories around the world. It comes in multiple colorways, half of which are monochromatic; two shades of blue, a brown, and an orange finish comprise the rest.

This is a decent price for a gaming chair, putting the LR002 at the budget-end of the spectrum. What’s more, we’ve seen it on sale for less than half price in the UK, making it even more of a bargain. This was direct from GTPlayer's website, although the original price listed here is substantially more than that on Amazon.

It competes with the likes of the Corsair TC100 Relaxed, which commands a similar price to the LR002. We think this is one of the best cheap gaming chairs around, thanks to its comfort levels and adjustability; the LR002 can match the TC100 in the former area, but not the latter.

If you're willing to part with more cash, but still want to steer clear of the most expensive models, the Asus ROG Destrier Core is a solid bet. Not only does this gaming chair offer more adjustments than the LR002, its unique mesh backrest improves breathability and lends a certain style to the unit that sets it apart from many others in the sector.

GTPlayer LR002 review: Specs

GTPlayer LR002 review: Design and aesthetics

• Soft but basic looks
• Cheap-feeling materials
• Lightweight design

The LR002 takes the typical gaming chair approach in terms of overall form, although it’s softer and more rounded than others. These aspects make it a more inviting chair, in my view.

I was also fond of the light grey finish of my review unit, accented by light blue strips, which helps to make the LR002 look less austere than many others in this sector. Granted, it’s not the most elegant of designs, but it’s inoffensive and understated enough to suit most settings.

The lack of premium materials is perhaps the biggest aesthetic weakness of the LR002. The fabric, while smooth to the touch, looks and feels cheap. It’s more breathable than other gaming chair upholsteries, but I still think it’s too thick to keep me cool on a hot summer day.

The plastics used in the unit’s construction also look and feel like cut-price affairs. In their defense, they’re light, which helps to keep the chair’s weight down. In fact, the LR002 is one of the lightest gaming chairs I’ve come across.

There’s a strange hollowness to the backrest; it’s only partially filled, with what feel like small polystyrene balls. It crackled and popped as I leaned into it (it has plenty of give), which wasn’t something I was expecting or particularly wanting to feel, but fortunately, the effect wasn’t disruptive enough to ruin my time in the chair. The backrest is also very thin, which contributes to the aforementioned lightness of the LR002.

GTPlayer LR002 review: Comfort and adjustability

• Cushioned on all contactable surfaces
• Lacks fundamental adjustments
• Very poor footrest

The soft appearance of the LR002 translates to all-round comfort. It offers more cushioning than your typical gaming chair; this is especially true of the backrest and armrests, which put it ahead of many others, even those costing much more.

The strapped lumbar cushion works well, allowing for easy height adjustments while seated, yet it remains in place once you’ve found the ideal height. It’s smaller than those included with other gaming chairs, but it was sufficient to get the support I needed.

It’s a similar story with the head pillow. It’s less plush than others, but again, it provided just enough support for my head and neck. As you might expect, given the budget nature of the LR002, it doesn’t attach magnetically, but via a humble strap.

While the arms are comfortable, thanks to their generous cushioning, they’re quite narrow, which might pose a problem for some gamers. The bigger issue, though, is their complete lack of adjustability.

This is especially frustrating given that they move when the backrest is reclined — but this is the only scenario in which they do. I was lucky that their height was ideal for my seating position, but I imagine there’ll be many gamers who won’t find them suitable.

Equally disappointing is the LR002’s lack of a tilt function. If you want to lean back, the backrest can recline all the way to 140 degrees — but once it’s set, the unforgiving rigidity prevents any form of rocking. At least the recline mechanism is smooth with no discernible notchiness, and the lever is easy to operate.

A retractable footrest is installed underneath the LR002. However, this has to be one of the most poorly designed examples I’ve come across. Every time I tried to slide it out, it would get stuck partway, requiring a few jiggles to set it free.

What’s more, the cushion itself doesn’t stay upright, requiring constant leg pressure to hold it in place. Worst of all, though, is its short extension. While it managed to support my legs, the front edge of the rest dug uncomfortably into the back of my calves — and I’m only 5”7. Anyone taller than this will find it laughably impractical.

Another issue for taller gamers is the seat height. The minimum setting is quite low to the ground, which is something I often welcome, but the maximum isn’t all that high. And since there’s only one size of the LR002, this could cause a problem for the long-legged.

GTPlayer LR002 review: Assembly

• Light base and backrest
• Clear instructions
• Tight bolts

Assembling the LR002 was mostly an easy process, barring a few minor frustrations. It comes with a hex key that features a grip handle, which, while useful, was a little too short to get the leverage I hoped for when tightening the bolts.

What’s more, none of these bolts or their insert points were greased even slightly, which made them even more difficult to screw into place. Some also proved incredibly resistant to the point that I thought their threads must be misaligned.

Both the backrest and seat base are light relative to those of other gaming chairs. This is always a blessing, since wrangling these into place is nearly always the most laborious aspect of any build.

The instruction manual is largely clear, and aside from some aforementioned bold issues, installing the other elements is easy. This includes the under-seat bracket, which can sometimes be a fiddly process.

However, I found the spokes for the wheel base tough to fix to the central hub, since the bolt holes lie in a somewhat inaccessible position. The manual instructs hitting them with force to get them in place, and it’s not joking: I would take care not to damage your floor during this part of the process.

Should I buy the GTPlayer LR002?

Buy it if...

Don't buy it if...

GTPlayer LR002 review: Also consider...

Here are some alternatives to the GTPlayer LR002 if you need more in the way of adjustability or quality:

How I tested the GTPlayer LR002

• Tested for several days
• Used for gaming and working
• Plentiful gaming chair experience

I tested the GTPlayer LR002 for several days. I sat in it when gaming, working, and general browsing on both desktop and laptop devices. I made sure to try every adjustment and function available.

I’ve been PC gaming for over a decade, and experienced many chairs in that time, from office to gaming models. This includes those from high-end brands, such as Steelcase and Secretlab. I’ve also reviewed a number of gaming chairs previously, running the gamut of price points and functionality.

Read more about how we test

First reviewed February 2026.

If you’ve read many of my recent gaming reviews, you’ll notice that there’s often one reference that’s peppered throughout them. Clair Obscur: Expedition 33. In fact, if you’ve ever had the misfortune of getting caught in a conversation with me, you’ll find I reference it approximately every 6.5 seconds. It was my frontrunner for Game of the Year 2025 by a clear furlong.

And yet despite my enduring love for it, a recent acquisition has totally changed the way I play the game. When toying around with the Asus ROG Raikiri II Xbox controller for review, I found it totally changed the way I play the game and, honestly, helped me enjoy it a whole lot more. I’d been missing something since the very beginning of the game, and the high-end, premium controller helped me realise why.

So what was it about picking up one of the best Xbox controllers out there that proved such a game-changer?

Despair Obscur

It’s not hard to explain why I’ve enjoyed Expedition 33 so much. The heyday of turn-based role-playing games (RPGs) came during my youth, when my brain was at its squishiest and most impressionable. I know we’re only supposed to care about action RPGs and Soulslikes these days, but Expedition 33 is a love letter to many of the games that sparked my adoration of RPGs, while having enough modern innovations to feel truly forward-looking.

Yet I have a confession to make. Despite how much I love the game, I’ve been harboring a dark, shameful secret that cuts to the core of my identity. While I never wanted to admit this publicly, I feel like I can no longer hide it… I kinda suck at it.

Don’t get me wrong. I hold my own in battles. My builds are relatively effective, I have a good lot of synergies worked out with my skills, and I can usually ace most of the quicktime events (QTEs). The vast majority of opponents fall at my feet, and I can master a lot of the bosses after a few humiliating deaths. So what’s the issue?

In a word: parrying. Ever since I started playing, I’d always felt something was slightly off with the parrying and counter mechanics – I could pull them off regularly enough to be satisfying and to bring many enemies to their knees. However, I often felt like I was missing something.

The window felt unforgiving at the best of times, and every time I came across new enemies, I’d spend most of the encounters with them learning their timings before they largely disappeared from play. I wanted to excel, but often found I got by on a painful process of repeating counters until I had the rhythm down. Later in the game, this sensation was only compounded – certain bosses required almost flawless countering, and the introduction of Verso’s Perfection ranks meant coasting was no longer an option.

I know, I know… get gud, right? But despite all the practice I got, I never quite built up the fluency I needed. And advice online didn’t seem to work for me: listening out for aural cues or the way the screen zooms in just before an attack didn’t help me hit the window with enough regularity. My younger co-workers didn’t seem to have any issues with it, convincing me my issue was more likely with my middle-aged brain. The old girl just ain’t as fast as she used to be.

But, as it turned out, the issue wasn’t with my wetware. It was with my hardware.

He’s got control again

Ridiculous as it is, I don’t actually spend a lot of money on gaming accessories. Despite owning a mid-weight gaming PC, an Xbox Series X, and a Steam Deck, when it comes to choosing between games and accessories, I’ll choose games every time. As a result, I’ve got a Steam library full of uncompleted games, and yet I’ve always used my PC with the cheapest controller I could get my hands on. Yes, I know: I can literally hear your eyes rolling from here.

Fortunately, TechRadar Gaming’s managing editor has been dragging me kicking and screaming into the 2020s one accessory review at a time. And it was as a part of this gradual reeducation process that I recently tested out a new pro controller for Xbox and PC: the Asus ROG Raikiri II Xbox Controller.

When I test any gaming accessory, I’ll always try it out with as wide a range of genres as possible. So, naturally, one of the first titles I fired up was Clair Obscur: Expedition 33.

Suddenly, something was different. Instead of getting slashed to ribbons by the Obscurs I was facing, I started deflecting their blows like a spider at the peak of his Olympic fencing career. The crack-thin parry window suddenly felt like an enormous floor-to-ceiling window, and hitting it became a far-less stressful experience. Verso finally went from an, at best, straight-C student to regularly unleashing his most powerful attacks.

I’d never previously considered that a more pro-level pad could make this much of a difference. But take a quick glance at the Raikiri II’s design and feature-set, and it’s easy to see why it’s been so transformative for my gameplay.

The most obvious is its triggers. Not only is the Raikiri II one of the few console controllers so far to have introduced Tunnel Magnetoresistance (TMR) sensors to its triggers – promising even more sensitivity and longevity than Hall effect sensors – but using Asus’s Gear Link software, you can set the sensitivity window for each trigger independently. By far the biggest game changer as far as Expedition 33 is concerned, though, is their micro-switch setting, a digital setting with minimal travel that makes it easier to hammer that parry trigger much faster.

But that’s not the only trick the Raikiri II has up its sleeve here. It’s also a blindingly fast controller, full stop. Thanks to its 1000Hz polling rate, it will pick up any trigger pull or button click within 1ms. On top of this, it has a seriously low input lag of just 2.32ms when hooked up in wired mode or 3.53ms when connected via its 2.4GHz wireless mode – meaning that the gains you’re getting out of faster triggers aren’t swallowed up by lag on the digital side.

And it’s not only been transformative for playing Expedition 33. Tweaking its left thumbstick curves on the Gear Link software made keeping up with the frenetic pace of Doom easier, while lengthening the sensitivity window for the accelerator on Forza Horizon 5 gave me slightly more granular control of my speed as I hurtled around the streets of Guanajuato. As important as speed, that increased level of sensitivity can be transformative for certain titles.

So while I’m not suggesting that all your woes in gaming can be solved with a magic bullet, I’ve definitely noticed how a more pro-level pad has given me more of an edge in certain titles. I may not be able to guarantee that’s why you’re finding the timing tricky in games like Clair Obscur: Expedition 33, but it’s definitely worth considering if you’ve followed all other advice to no avail. Because sometimes that extra edge and precision can make all the difference.

Skullcandy Crusher PLYR 720: two-minute review

The Skullcandy Crusher PLYR 720 is an open-back headset with a bass-heavy sound designed to impart as much impact as possible when playing games.

For a gaming headset, the Crusher PLYR 720 has quite a muted appearance; even the RGB lighting is restrained. In fact, the most prominent feature is the sheer bulk of the drivers, which are hard to ignore and aren’t exactly flattering when cupped over your ears.

The entire headset is built to a high standard. The materials feel premium and sturdy, and the various buttons and controls operate with a reassuring solidity. All this means the Crusher PLYR 720 ranks among the best wireless gaming headset in terms of construction.

Wearing the Crusher PLYR 720 is largely a joy, despite that aforementioned bulk. Even when wearing glasses, I experienced little fatigue on my ears or head, even after long sessions.

This is partly due to the thick padding of the earcups, although their inner circumference is smaller than you might imagine from the outside, which may be a problem for those with larger lobes.

The headband is also supremely comfortable. It has a second layer that stretches across the top of your head, therefore eliminating the soreness that single-layer headbands can cause — even those with soft padding.

However, the fit isn’t all that secure. Whenever I leaned my head back, the entire headset almost fell off completely, only saved by the grip of the headband.

Both the desktop and mobile apps for the Crusher PLYR 720 are easy to use and full of useful tweaks, complete with handy graphs and visualizations to help you make them. In my time with them, they ran smoothly without any glitches or stability issues.

The overall sound quality of the Crusher PLYR 720 is excellent. When gaming, every detail is audible and impactful, even with the bass dialed back. However, it perhaps lacks the treble clarity of the best headphones around. This is somewhat forgivable when gaming, but less so when listening intently to music. I still found the Crusher PLYR 720 enjoyable for the latter purpose, though, and it’s a better gaming headset than many in this regard.

Given the name, it’s no surprise that Skullcandy’s Crusher feature is the sonic highlight. This allows you to crank the bass of the Crusher PLYR 720 to frankly absurd levels. How much you need to dial in depends greatly on the specific source, but at its best it adds an unparalleled amount of weight to low-end frequencies, from gunshots to kick drums.

The Crusher PLYR 720 also gets THX Spatial Audio support. The head-tracking feature works well enough, although it lacks precision and subtlety. The surround sound distance adjustments also fail to impart a sense of space all that accurately.

Along with these features, there’s also the obligatory EQ graph, with four presets and four custom slots for tuning your own. However, I didn’t find any tweaking useful, as the default flat mode was sufficient for every scenario.

The microphone offers plenty of clarity, too, rendering my voice without distortion. It’s a small shame the stalk can’t be manipulated to the same degree as gooseneck designs can be, but I found the positioning adequate nonetheless.

Connecting the Crusher PLYR 720 to various devices was quick and easy, whether it was via the 2.4GHz USB dongle or Bluetooth. Also, being able to connect to your smartphone and your gaming system simultaneously is a blessing, as this allows you to alter settings in the mobile app mid-play.

The battery life of the Crusher PLYR 720 is quite impressive. Skullcandy quotes a time of 48 hours, and I believe this figure. Over the course of several days, when used with a variety of platforms, all sonic features activated, and RGB lighting on, it still had juice left.

All of these quality features come at a price, though, as the Crusher PLYR 720 sits firmly at the premium end of the market. There are great wireless headsets for considerably less, such as the Razer BlackShark V3 and the Beyerdynamic MMX 150 Wireless, but if you need untold amounts of bass in your life, the Crusher PLYR 720 scratches that itch like nothing else.

Skullcandy Crusher PLYR 720 review: price & availability

• $269.99 / £229.99 / AU$449.99
• Available now in two versions
• Top-end of the market

The Skullcandy Crusher PLYR 720 costs $269.99 / £229.99 / AU$449.99 and is available now. Two editions are available: Xbox and multi-platform. Both are the same price.

If you want to save some serious money, then the Razer BlackShark V3 might be for you. In our glowing review, we highlighted its comfortable, lightweight design that felt more premium than its mid-range price tag suggests, as well as its impressive noise isolation and versatile sonics. For these reasons, we think it ranks among the best PC gaming headsets around right now.

For those who prize audio quality first and foremost, the Beyerdynamic MMX 150 Wireless is a better option. We were impressed with its immersive sound stage, although we were less taken with its microphone. This headset is also a lot cheaper than the Crusher PLYR 720.

Skullcandy Crusher PLYR 720 review: specs

Skullcandy Crusher PLYR 720 review: design and features

• Very comfortable
• Excellent build quality
• Plenty of audio-based features

For a gaming headset, the Crusher PLYR 720 has a reasonably muted style. The design is devoid of any gamer-aesthetic touches typical to many in this sector. The premium-looking and feeling matte black finish even lends an element of sophistication.

The RGB lighting is similarly subtle: there’s some illumination strained through small strips and a honeycomb mesh on the drivers, but the lion’s share is reserved for the inside of the earcups — which, of course, you won’t see when wearing the Crusher PLYR 720.

I should also highlight the build quality of the Crusher PLYR 720, as it’s excellent. Despite it being a relatively light unit, it feels sturdy and well-made. I particularly liked the 180-degree rotating drivers, which is convenient when you want to take a break and hang the headset around your neck.

What makes the headset stand out above all else, though, is the bulky drivers. They’re very wide, which makes the Crusher PLYR 720 less than ideal as a travel companion; not only because the drivers take up a lot of space, but also because they don’t look particularly fetching around your ears.

Despite this bulk, the actual inner circumference of the earcups is quite small. Personally, I didn’t find them too small for my ears, but it’s possible others might.

In fact, I found the Crusher PLYR 720 exceptionally comfortable all-round. There’s plenty of padding on the earcups, yet its fabric is more breathable than many. Also, as a glasses-wearer, I can confirm that the cups don’t present any issues when sat on top the arms of frames.

The headband is solid yet flexible, and feels reassuringly durable. You don’t get any padding here; instead, there’s a supplementary band, made from an elastic material to fit snugly on your head, running underneath the main one. I found this incredibly comfortable; I didn’t experience any aching or fatigue at all, even after long sessions, as I have with many other headsets.

The adjustments for the earcup height are also excellent. They have a sufficient range to accommodate various head sizes, and the operation of these adjustments is very smooth with no notching. Despite this, the cups remain at your chosen height setting with a surprising amount of stability, which impressed me.

However, the overall fit of the Crusher PLYR 720 isn’t particularly secure. The earcup padding provided little friction to the side of my head, so whenever I tilted my head back the entire headset moved with it; only the grip of the headband kept it from falling off completely. However, this wasn’t an issue during normal use, so it’s a trade-off I’m willing to accept for the supreme overall comfort of the headset.

The switches and other controls on the Crusher PLYR 720 operate with a satisfying solidity and smoothness. There are three main buttons, all of which are easy to reach, thanks to their convenient positioning and generous size. One is named Custom, which is misleading, since as far as I can work out, can only be used to toggle THX Spatial Audio Head Tracking on or off.

The joystick for adjusting volume and other parameters is easy to use for the most part, although there isn’t much feedback when you move it. At least it’s hard to trigger accidentally, by, say, leaning against the back of your chair — something I’ve experienced numerous times with conventional volume wheels.

It’s a slight shame, though, that the jumps between the volume increments are quite large, meaning it's hard to dial in a very precise volume with the joystick; for such purposes, you’d be better served by the volume settings of your connected device or inside Skullcandy’s software.

Thankfully, the Crusher wheel doesn’t suffer from accidental triggering or overlarge increments. It’s tactile and smooth to operate, while the small point that sticks out makes it easy to know where exactly you are in the setting.

There are three ports on the Crusher PLYR 720: a USB-C port for charging and playback, a 3.5mm audio jack, and the microphone input. All are located on the left-hand driver. The various cables fit securely in these ports, and what’s more, they’re nicely recessed for protection from accidental disconnections.

The microphone appears to be as well made as the rest of the headset. The soft rubber feels more upmarket than many others, but while it can bend around, it’s not a true gooseneck, so gamers who are particular about their mic placement might be a little disappointed by its lack of maneuverability.

Skull-HQ, the desktop app for the Crusher PLYR 720, is feature-packed and quite easy to use. It has a faux-retro interface that employs the terminal font, tapping into that mid-nineties hacker vibe. It ran smoothly during my time with it; I didn’t experience any slowdown or bugs.

The layout is clear, although I was a little disappointed by the lack of explanations for certain features. Some are only denoted by symbols, which aren’t always self-explanatory. A tutorial for the joystick controls would’ve been appreciated, too, rather than having to always refer to the manual.

There are plenty of tweaks that can be made to the Crusher PLYR 720 in the app. These range from rudimentary RGB customizations and basic adjustments volume, game mix, and the sidetone function.

Beyond these, there’s an parametric EQ with FPS, RPG, Music, and Default (flat) presets to choose from. There are also four custom slots, allowing you to save your own sculpted sound. This is achieved by dragging eight points on a graph, with a range of 32Hz to 16KHz, to cut or boost frequencies by 12BD.

Various adjustments for THX Spatial Audio are available, too, including the ability to set speaker distance. Strangely, however, there isn’t a toggle for the Head Tracking function, as there is in the Skullcandy mobile app (which has a better, cleaner interface than Skull-HQ, by the by).

Then there’s a section for the Crusher bass enhancement. Here, you can alter the cut-off points for the low and high frequencies on another EQ graph. This is rather overkill for such a setting, but nonetheless I always welcome a visual representation for sonic settings. It’s also accompanied by a humorous ditherpunk face depicting various expressions depending on the strength of the Crusher setting.

Skull-HQ even features a hearing test, designed to calibrate the Crusher PLYR 720 based on your individual hearing. What’s more, a knock-off version of Space Invaders is buried in the app, too.

Beyerdynamic MMX 150 Wireless review: performance

• Skull-shaking bass feature
• Great overall for gaming and music
• Clear mic

The general sound of the Crusher PLYR 720 is punchy and clear, with all frequencies represented well. Overall fidelity isn’t quite up there with the best wireless headphones, though, which is most apparent when listening to music. This is due to the slight lack of crispness and clarity at the high end.

It’s the bass response that the Crusher PLYR 720 is sold on, though — thanks to its Crusher feature. Whether this is something you like comes down to personal preference, but I have to say that when the mood struck, I loved cranking the wheel to maximum and letting the drivers shake (and they really do shake) to my favorite bass-heavy tracks or to gunfire, something I certainly noticed when playing Counter-Strike 2.

However, you’ll find yourself riding the Crusher level frequently, as the prominence of the bass enhancement can vary widely between sources; even those you thought had a relatively tame low-end suddenly become a booming mess, causing the drivers to audibly rattle — even before you’ve enabled the extra Crusher Bass Boost on top. In fact, I wouldn’t want maximum “Crushing” for an entire session, even for sources that can handle it without distorting.

The THX Spatial Audio is reasonably effective. With Head Tracking enabled, changes to the audio space react quickly to head movements, without being too disconcerting or disorientating.

However, you’ll have to move your head by large degrees to notice the effect. Also, it’s a shame that the sensitivity of the effect can’t be adjusted, as it lacks the precision and subtlety of some of the best THX headsets and headphones. Adjusting the virtual distance of the surround sound speakers noticeably changes the soundscape, but at the cost of reducing fidelity. What’s more, I found it largely ineffective at imparting a realistic sense of space.

The microphone for the Crusher PLYR 720 is clear and largely free of distortion. The Sidetone mode allows an appropriate level of ambient noise to spill through, so you can hear your own voice more clearly.

During my time with the Crusher PLYR 720, it proved easy to connect to the various devices I tested it with. The 2.4GHz USB dongle allows for instant plug-and-play, and merely requires the flip of a switch on the dongle itself to change compatibility modes from PC to Xbox.

In terms of connectivity to Microsoft’s console, then, the Crusher PLYR 720 up there with the best Xbox Series X headsets. It also connected to my Nintendo Switch just as easily, via the dongle and Bluetooth.

Oddly, even though I had the Xbox version of the Crusher PLYR 720, it still worked with my PlayStation 5 via the dongle. There’s conflicting information as to whether this is intended or not: the printed manual states that the Xbox variant only works with the PS5 when connected via the 3.5mm audio cable, while the product page on Skullcandy’s website states that wireless play is possible with Sony’s console. If the latter is correct, it then begs the question as to why there are two versions of the Crusher PLYR 720.

It connected seamlessly to my Android smartphone via Bluetooth, with no discernable drop in audio quality. Better yet, you can connect to your phone and console or PC at the same time; during my testing, I was impressed by the ease with which it established and maintained these simultaneous connections. The benefit of this is that you can adjust settings in the mobile app on the fly, taking effect while playing your game.

Even with this multiplatform use, the battery of the Crusher PLYR 720 endured admirably well. Skullcandy claims it can last 48 hours, but with all the bells and whistles enabled, you can see lifespan deplete at a considerable rate in the software readouts. Still, it managed to last several long sessions over a few days, which, in addition to connecting to various devices, also involved activating all its various sound features and keeping the RGB lighting on.

Should I buy the Beyerdynamic MMX 150 Wireless?

Buy it if…

Don’t buy it if…

Beyerdynamic MMX 150 Wireless review: also consider

How I tested the Beyerdynamic MMX 150 Wireless

• Tested for several days
• Used for various scenarios and with multiple platforms
• Experience reviewing gaming headsets

I tested the Skullcandy Crusher PLYR 720 for several days. Not only did I use it for gaming, but I also listened to music and watched videos with it on.

I tested it with a Windows PC, an Xbox Series S, a PlayStation 5, and a Nintendo Switch, connecting to each of these devices with the USB dongle. I also tested Bluetooth connectivity with the latter console, as well as with my Android phone. I used both the desktop Skull-HQ app and the Skullcandy mobile app to try out all the various features.

I’ve been gaming for decades, using a variety of headsets, headphones, and speakers for the activity. I’ve also reviewed a number of headsets professionally, all the way from budget wired offerings to premium multiplatform wireless options.

• First reviewed: February 2026
• Read more about how we test

Asus ROG Raikiri II Xbox Wireless: one-minute review

The Asus ROG Raikiri II Xbox Wireless is a controller compatible with both Xbox Series X|S and PC. It’s an unabashedly premium product at $189.99 / £199 / AU$349 but, for that price, it’s wonderfully responsive, beautifully designed and comes with a good array of accessories.

First off, the Raikiri II feels beautifully well built. It feels solid and substantial, yet it’s ergonomically designed. Elements like the rear buttons are perfectly placed under your fingertips to make them easy to access without shifting your grasp, while its textured grips meant it never once slipped in my hands. Its RGB lighting is also tastefully done, just subtle enough to not detract from its sleek appearance and coming with plenty of customizable options.

Both the thumbsticks and shoulder triggers are staggeringly accurate, thanks to Asus’s decision to use TMR sensors in each of them. Not only do I relish not having to worry about the dreaded stick drift anymore but I found them astoundingly precise, giving me spot-on control over everything from acceleration in racing games to aiming in FPSes. The fact that the shoulder triggers can be toggled to using micro-switches is just the icing on the cake – smashing parries out against the Paintress in Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 has never felt so satisfying to me.

This awesome sensitivity and precision is further supported by the Raikiri II’s blisteringly fast connectivity, which rivals that of many of the best Xbox controllers. Not only does it offer an absurdly rapid 1,000Hz polling rate but its 2.4GHz wireless connection and USB-C connectivity each trim input latencies down to just 3.5ms and 2.3ms. Naturally, it also offers Bluetooth connectivity but, honestly, I found the former options so fast that I’d opt for those every time.

Thanks to Asus’s Gear Link software, you can also customize a lot of the Raikiri II’s functionality. On top of basic options like button remapping, you can also set discreet response curves and deadzones for each thumbstick, as well as start and end points for each of the shoulder triggers. There’s also the option to tweak how intense the controller’s rumble settings are and map the pad’s four rear buttons to various functions.

While you can save all of these settings to one of five profiles, this does come with a pretty serious caveat. When playing on Xbox, you can only switch between them using the Gear Link software, meaning hooking it up to your laptop or desktop each time. To me, this feels like a pretty major oversight – can you really class this Raikiri II’s Xbox edition, if a key part of the functionality is inaccessible to Xbox gamers?

This one misstep aside though, the Asus ROG Raikiri II Xbox Wireless is a seriously impressive controller. While I think PC gamers will get even more out of it than those on Xbox, it’s still a fantastically responsive pad on either platform, offering some features I’ve not seen on many other products, like those TMR triggers. Yes, it’s relatively pricey at $189.99 / £199 / AU$349 but, if you’re looking for a trailblazing premium controller, it’s a great option.

Asus ROG Raikiri II Xbox Wireless review: price and availability

• Launched December 10, 2025
• Retails for $189.99 / £199 / AU$349
• Offers a lot of accessories for that price

Having launched on December 10, 2025, the Asus ROG Raikiri II Xbox Wireless is available now. You can pick it up for $189.99 / £199 / AU$349, putting it firmly up the premium end of the Xbox controller market.

In return for that spend, though, you get a whole heap of functionality, plus a range of connectivity options: Bluetooth, a 2.4GHz wireless dongle or wired USB-C connectivity. On top of this, it also comes with a carry case, USB-C cable, charging dock and replacement thumbsticks, so it’s a very decent package for the price.

Asus ROG Raikiri II Xbox Wireless review: specs

Asus ROG Raikiri II Xbox Wireless review: design and features

• Long-lasting TMR sticks
• Excellent dual-mode triggers
• Attractive, ergonomic design

Over the years, I’ve built up quite the grisly mausoleum of dead controllers, both Xbox and otherwise. Eventually, the dreaded stick drift has claimed every single one. So it’s a relief to know that won’t happen with the ROG Raikiri II’s drift-resistant thumbsticks.

Asus has opted for TMR sticks here, which it says are not only more accurate but consume less power than Hall-effect alternatives. While it’s difficult to assess what kind of longevity you’ll get out of them, from the second I held the ROG Raikiri II Xbox Wireless in my hands, the thumbsticks felt incredibly responsive and enabled me to make surgically precise movements in a variety of games.

But perhaps even more than the Raikiri II’s thumbsticks, I really fell for its dual-mode shoulder triggers. When set to their micro-switch triggers, I found they were lightning fast to activate, making them perfect for hammering the trigger in FPS games. Meanwhile, their full-range TMR sensor mode is a real rarity on console controllers – we’ve certainly not tested many with that functionality here at TechRadar Gaming – and it gave me really wonderfully precise control for games like Forza Horizon 5.

At first, I found the clicky feedback of the micro-switch face buttons took a little getting used to, as I’m more familiar with the spongy softness of the Xbox Wireless Controller buttons. But once I’d adapted to their novel feel, I was fully converted – they activate seriously quickly and offer such an immediate response that you know almost instantly when you’ve hit your target.

Its extra rear shortcut buttons are perfectly placed, sitting right under where your middle and ring fingers naturally grab the pad. And they’re wonderfully versatile. Not only are they great if you want to set up extra macros in game but being able to set a couple as shortcuts for the shoulder buttons saved me ever having to switch my grip during sessions of Clair Obscur: Expedition 33, which reduced my response times in game significantly.

When it comes to looks, the controller styles itself after the recent Xbox ROG Ally X, riffing off design elements like its subtle decal. It also mimics its textured grips, which I definitely found made it easier to keep hold of the pad without them ever feeling rough. In fact, its matt plastic build always feels pleasantly tactile to the touch, while the whole device feels just substantial enough to avoid flimsy or hollow.

And while I know that for some people RGB lighting on a controller is an unnecessary gimmick, I have to admit that I’m completely suckered in by the ROG Raikiri II’s lighting. Partly this is because it’s relatively subtle and restrained, limiting itself to a strip down either side and the central ROG button, and it’s fully customizable, allowing you to decide quite how much you want to lean into full-blown esports styling.

Finally, the ROG Raikiri II has an impressive range of connectivity options. On top of Bluetooth, it also has 2.4GHz wireless connectivity via a dongle and a USB-C wired connection. These latter two are particularly impressive, offering an 1,000Hz polling rate and trimming input latencies to just 3.5ms and 2.3ms respectively, meaning you should easily get the drop on most of your enemies in game.

Asus ROG Raikiri II Xbox Wireless review: performance

• Blisteringly fast response times
• Brilliantly customisable
• Custom profiles can’t be changed on Xbox

With its 1,000Hz polling rate in PC mode, it’s safe to say I was expecting the Raikiri II to respond to inputs rapidly. And it did not disappoint. Even when playing fast-paced FPSes like Call of Duty: Modern Warfare 3, I couldn’t detect the least hint of lag over its low-latency 2.4GHz RF connectivity or USB-C cable.

But it’s not only its connectivity that make for lightning fast gaming – those dual-mode shoulder triggers are a literal game-changer. When I first tried them out while playing Clair Obscur: Expedition 33, the difference compared to my previous budget controller was immediately appreciable. Especially when using them in their micro-switch trigger mode, I suddenly found myself going from fumbling three-quarters of parries to nailing them 80% of the time. Those triggers respond fast and I certainly found it had a palpable impact on my game play.

And with Asus’s Gear Link software you can tweak things even further to get the kind of performance you need for each game you’re playing and save them to one of five customized profiles. You can access this tool by hooking up the Raikiri II to your PC and accessing it in your browser.

This method does come with an unfortunate wrinkle, however. As it's browser-based, there’s no way to access it on the fly from your Xbox and the controller doesn’t offer any way to switch between profiles as you play. That means you can only ever access one tuning at a time on your console before you need to return to a PC to switch things up – which is a weird choice to make for a controller that literally has ‘Xbox’ in the name.

Honestly, that’s a bit of a shame as, otherwise, the Gear Link software offers really granular control over the responsiveness of your controller. For example, I was able to set one of my profiles with very quick response and shallow range for its triggers, making it really easy to fan the hammer when trying to gun down opponents on Call of Duty: Modern Warfare 3. Conversely, for Forza Horizon 5, I set the right trigger to activate over its full range, giving me really precise control over the throttle so I could better manage my speed during cornering.

And that’s just the beginning. You can also set independent custom curves for each of the TMR thumbsticks, enabling you to tweak how fast they respond the further they’re moved, as well as set the size of their deadzones. While playing Doom, I set the left stick to have a rapid curve and kept the right one set as linear – as a result, I was able to close the gap between Doom Guy and all those demons far quicker, without having the camera whip round too violently.

The Gear Link software also unlocks a bunch of other customization options. You can change the intensity of the controller’s vibration haptics, which I imagine is very useful for people who have sensory processing problems or find it difficult to grip on to a controller that’s vibrating too fiercely.

It also unlocks some aesthetic tweaks for that RGB lighting. You have the option to set each zone up separately, whether you want it in solid color, breathing, reacting to button presses or color cycling. My personal go-to though? It definitely has to be battery mode, which allows you to set the lighting to specific colors for different battery levels – I can now get a precise sense of how much juice my pad has left at just a glance, which is a lifesaver.

Overall, I found the performance of the Asus ROG Raikiri II Xbox Wireless to be seriously impressive. Don’t get me wrong: there are some odd choices along the way, especially the lack of a hotswap button for saved profiles on the Xbox. But if you’re not flipping through different genres at the drop of a hat or you’re playing on PC, it's an incredibly responsive controller with a great level of customizability.

Should I buy the Asus ROG Raikiri II Xbox Wireless?

Buy it if…

Don’t buy it if…

Asus ROG Raikiri II Xbox Wireless review: also consider

How I tested the Asus ROG Raikiri II Xbox Wireless

• Tested it over two weeks
• Used it on both Xbox and PC
• Created multiple custom profiles

I tested the Asus ROG Raikiri II Xbox Wireless over a period of several weeks. I tried it out on both the Xbox Series X and on PC and tried it out on a wide range of genres, from RPGs like Clair Obscur: Expedition 33, FPSes like Call of Duty: Modern Warfare 3 and racing games like Forza Horizon 5.

Not only did I try the Raikiri II using all three connection methods – 2.4GHz wireless, Bluetooth and wired – but I used the Asus's Gear Link software to tweak all of its available settings. That included creating multiple profiles with varying trigger ranges, thumbstick curves and button assignments.

In terms of my testing experience, not only am I TechRadar's reviews editor, with experience of reviewing a wide array of gadgets, but I've been gaming for 35 years. That's across a wide range of platforms, including PC, consoles and gaming handhelds, meaning I've got loads of experience in gaming across a wide range of genres.

• First reviewed: February 2026
• Read more about how we test

Razer BlackShark V3 X review: One-minute review

The bells-and-whistles version of Razer’s latest BlackShark V3, the V3 Pro, is one of the best wireless gaming headsets on the market. This model might share the name and the basic chassis design, but it’s available at a very different price, and that means the feature spec sheet looks wildly different too.

Razer’s positioning this as an esports model, based on the low-latency wireless connection its Hyperspeed 2.4GHz wireless dongle offers, and the impressively svelte 9.6oz / 270g weight. In reality, as welcome as those attributes are, they’re probably more relevant to a non-professional gamer who wants to save some cash, stay comfortable while they play, and avoid connection dropouts more than a professional player in a stadium.

One thing that translates very well all the way down the BlackShark range is the comfort and adjustability of the headband and earcup design. There’s a brilliant balance of clamping force and headband weight distribution that makes this headset immediately comfy, and it stays that way into the last moments of your 40-player World of Warcraft raid.

The microphone isn’t especially standout, but it offers decent clarity and noise cancellation, and it’s detachable, which means if you opt to connect the headset to your smartphone via Bluetooth, you can wear these on the train or bus without looking like you’re organizing air traffic.

Your mileage of the 7.1 virtual surround may vary, but to this reviewer’s ears, it sounds thin and artificial, inevitably detracting from the original audio source rather than widening it. These aren’t the same titanium drivers as you’ll find in the standard Razer BlackShark V3, and they’re not quite as precise or authoritative in their sound production, which means there’s less leeway for affecting audio sources with virtual surround.

But if you can live with merely good audio and mic quality, the huge 70-hour battery, lightweight, comfortable feel, and clean look are a pretty considerable upside.

Razer BlackShark V3 X review: Price and availability

• Costs $99.99 / £99.99 / around AU$141
• Comparable to Microsoft’s Xbox Wireless headset
• Considerably cheaper than the V3 and V3 Pro, so don’t expect a similar experience

This version of the Blackshark is really all about the price. A lot of the V3 and V3 Pro’s luxury trimmings have been jettisoned in order to meet a sub-$100 price point, but Razer’s decades of experience mean it knows which bits are essential: comfort, reliability, and usability. Those have stayed, of course.

The specs compare favorably to rivals at this price point, like the official Xbox Wireless headset and RIG R5 Spear Pro HS, a wired model that we’ve been digging lately in the sub-$100 pool.

Razer BlackShark V3 X: Specs

Razer BlackShark V3 X: Design and features

• Similar design to the flagship BlackShark V3
• Hyperspeed and Bluetooth, but not simultaneously
• Simple control layout

The basic headband, earcup, and hinge design will be familiar to anyone who’s familiar with previous versions of the BlackShark, or indeed the pricier variations of this current V3 generation. The wireframe hinge allows for plenty of adjustability, and there’s a near-perfect balance between the weight carried by the wide, well-cushioned headband and the clamping force generated by the earcups against your temples.

Around those earcups, there’s a generous slice of memory foam to keep that horizontal force from digging in too much and becoming uncomfortable, and there’s a good amount of extension in the wireframe to allow for larger heads.

The control layout is simple and effective. On the left earcup, just above the USB-C cable input, there’s a textured power button, volume scroll wheel, and a mic mute button, while on the right-hand side, you’ll find the holy grail for gaming headsets, particularly more affordable models: a game/chat balance scroll wheel. Having grown accustomed to having this luxury through years of use with Arctis 7 headsets, I always miss it when it doesn’t feature, and I’m seriously grateful to find one on a cheaper headset like this one.

While one probably wouldn’t expect simultaneous 2.4GHz wireless and Bluetooth connectivity at this price, it should still be noted that, unlike the V3 and V3 Pro, it isn’t available on this model.

The Hyperspeed wireless connection is very stable in my experience, though, suffering no dropouts over the several years I’ve been connecting wirelessly with Razer devices. It does invite some very infrequent audio artefacting in my experience, but that only manifests as a glitchy half-second of audio here and there when connecting to a PC.

Overall, the combo of comfort and looks of this model makes for a powerful one-two punch. Material choices and finish quality are both fantastic at this price range, and really distinguish this headset from rivals priced similarly.

Razer BlackShark V3 X review: Performance

• Decent sound but lacking that spark
• Capacious battery
• Mic does the job

The drivers within this V3 X’s earcups are a similar design to the V3 and V3 Pro’s drivers, with some important differences. All feature a 50mm size, but while the V3 Pro uses a bio-cellulose construction for its flagship version of the Tri-Force driver and the V3 uses titanium, this cheaper version uses… something else. It’s not stated in Razer’s materials.

That’s all academic until you get into road-testing the sound, and I’m bringing up the materials of various driver variations because those materials allow for faster and more supple articulation, which in turn gives you more sparkly high frequencies and more convincing, visceral lows. It’s in the raw sound quality category where I felt the V3 X’s pricing most obviously, and that certainly doesn’t mean they sound bad.

They’re clearly tuned for a balanced sound reproduction instead of wow factor, and that’s the right call. While at the extreme ends of the frequency response range, they sound a little dull, the overall quality is nice and neutral, and that speaks to the esports positioning of this headset. Pro players would probably use a more expensive model, of course, but if they did use this, they wouldn’t have to contend with vital audio cues being drowned out by over-emphasised bass.

Elsewhere, the battery deserves some serious acclaim. All the BlackShark V3s boast a 70-hour battery life, and while that’s boosted in part by the absence of RGB, it’s still an insane number. And it holds up in reality. I found I was even able to eke out a bit more than 70 hours from one charge, and charging is very quick via USB-C.

More muted praise – if you’ll excuse the excellent pun – for the microphone, which is simply serviceable. The audio reproduction lacks a little body, but it’s certainly crisp enough to cut through the mix and ensure your callouts are heard.

Should I buy the Razer BlackShark V3 X?

Buy it if...

Don't buy it if...

Also consider...

Still not sold on the Razer BlackShark V3 X? Here's how it compares to two similar sets.

How I tested the Razer BlackShark V3 X

• Weeks of daily use on PC and Xbox Series S
• Both connection types tested
• Compared to the flagship Razer BlackShark V3 Pro

I swam the waters of low-budget gaming headsets for two weeks with the V3 X Hyperspeed, which meant the usual mix of gaming, Discord, and work calls to get a feel for the driver and mic performance alike.

The meditative, ambient soundscapes of Cairn comprised a lot of that time, along with some callout-heavy Counter-Strike 2 sessions, a few co-op Minecraft adventures, and some long drives in Assetto Corsa Evo.

Both compatible devices were tested, and I kept track of each charge’s duration to check Razer’s stated 70 hours checks out in reality.

First reviewed January 2026

Read more about how we test

CES is always the place to experience incredible new tech, and over a year ago, I got to experience a gadget I genuinely think about at least once a week: Razer’s Project Arielle.

The brand synonymous with gamer-chic makes all manner of accessories, but this wasn’t some next-gen headset that can read your brainwaves, or a gaming mouse that’s perfectly ergonomically designed. It’s a gaming chair, it’s very comfy ergonomically, and crucially, it can heat you up or cool you down. It obviously glows a little too with Chroma lighting – is it really Razer if it doesn’t glow?

Razer has, unfortunately, not turned its prototype design into something mass market yet, but thankfully for me, a different gaming accessory titan has come to my rescue: DXRacer with its Martian Pro gaming chair.

It’s everything I wanted.

A tech-filled chair worth owning

Firstly, and most importantly, the DXRacer Martian Pro is a comfortable gaming chair.

Despite being stuffed with a heater/cooler, the cushioned seat is soft, the magnetic neck pillow is easy to adjust to the perfect position, and the articulated arm rest can move up/down, in/out, forward/backward, and rotate so that you can adjust them to your perfect position.

There’s also inbuilt lumbar support and a recliner, which are both adjusted electronically using controls on the chair.

Toggling the recline with the chair’s side switch is wonderfully effortless, and the lumbar support controls can move it around the backrest so that the cushion is positioned in the ideal spot for you – it just requires a little trial and error to find the settings that suit you best.

There’s also an in-built massager. It’s activated by pressing the M-button on the side of the chair and can swap between different modes by pressing it again, or switched off by holding the button down.

The massage effect isn’t the most impactful, but with dedicated zones covering your lower back up to your shoulder blades, it can bring some (admittedly a little noisy) relaxation while you work or game – I’m using the Normal mode while I write this, and loving every second.

One makes you warm

Now let’s talk about the heater and ventilation settings – the standout tech in this seat.

These are built into the seat and activated via two buttons found below the right armrest – one for each option. Long pressing once activates the heating/cooling, then quick pressing it changes the setting between three strengths – long pressing again turns it off.

The ventilation starts cooling you almost instantly, and even on its lowest setting, the heater makes you feel a little more toasty fairly quickly, which has been perfect during the cold winter days and nights.

My only critique is that the chair drops in usefulness significantly the moment it’s without power, which can happen in a day if you’re on battery and running the heater non-stop, or after a week or two if you use its electronic features less frequently.

The problem is it’s not just the heating/cooling that goes offline. The lumbar adjustments and the recliner also shut off, leaving you unable to make basic comfort tweaks.

Now, if you have easy access to a free plug socket, you shouldn’t experience too much trouble. The chair comes with a power cable that can keep it powered up nonstop. If you plan to use it wirelessly, just remember it’ll need to refuel from time to time, which can lead to frustration.

That one small pitfall aside – which is only generally an issue if plug sockets are at a premium at your desk space – the DXRacer Martian Pro is an electric gaming chair you definitely should absolutely consider.

Costing $899 / £580 (Australian pricing isn’t available), it isn’t the cheapest option out there, but the added cost does, for sure, come with a slew of benefits that justify the higher-than-normal price tag, and make it a genuine contender for one of the best gaming chairs I've ever used.

I’m still hoping Razer makes Arielle a reality, as I also loved that seat, but DXRacer has proven why the design is so great with its Martian Pro, and I can’t see why you’d want to go back to a regular chair after trying this.

DXRacer Martian Pro: One-minute review

I knew the DXRacer Martian Pro would be one of the best gaming chairs I've ever sat in, and three months with it have only confirmed my suspicions.

Why did I know this?

I tried a similar chair at CES 2025 – one that can heat you up and cool you down thanks to built-in tech, and I have genuinely thought about it every week since then – and the Martian Pro somehow also takes things up another notch with an in-built massager too, increasing its comfortable gaming chair credentials further still.

When it’s a cold day, you can turn on the seat heater to warm you up, the fan to cool you down, and the massager to relax you. I promise it’s as great as it sounds

What’s more, despite all these technological features, it still feels soft and comfortable for long working days and gaming sessions thanks to plenty of cushioning, a 4D lumbar airbag you can tune perfectly to your needs, and a magnetic headrest you can position perfectly every time. Did I mention the 4D armrest,s too?

All that’s to say, this gaming chair not only hits the essentials, but it also puts the cherry on top for a superbly comfortable experience.

My only gripe is that it’s useless without charge – the electronic recliner will power off too, leaving you stuck in one position with no way to change it. This is easily solved if you’re always near a plug for the power cable, or willing to charge the battery for wireless use, but the latter can be a little tedious (especially as the battery can drain fast) – so think twice about this chair if sockets are at a premium.

DXRacer Martian Pro: Price and availability

• Costs $899 / £580
• Premium features justify premium price
• Only available in one color at the time of reviewing

The DXRacer Martian Pro will set you back $899 / £580 (Australian pricing isn’t available at the time of reviewing) and can be picked up from the DXRacer store.

This price, especially the US cost, puts it into the higher tier of gaming chairs, which makes sense given that this chair is enhanced with various technological goodies.

These upgrades make it an attractive offering over less technologically impressive alternatives if you have the cash to splash, but if you’re on a budget, you can get by with less flashy alternatives.

DXRacer Martian Pro: Specs

DXRacer Martian Pro: Design and aesthetics

• Classic black look with minimalistic accents
• Premium feel
• Some noticeable branding

The DXRacer Martian Pro comes in one design: black with red arrow accents.

It’s certainly not as loud design-wise as my trusty Spider-Man themed seat, and it definitely sits towards the professional end of gaming chairs, but it’s not a plain design either, if that is essential for your needs.

The fabric choice is a faux leather that feels premium to the touch, and is easy to wipe clean, with the accents being stitched on in red. Though I’d be careful not to spill anything too much on the chair, as the seat and backrest have some mesh elements (to help with airflow from the heater and ventilation) that I wouldn’t want to pour a lot of liquid on.

As for the armrests, they feature the 4D adjustments we expect from gaming chairs worth their salt – they can be moved up/down, pulled in/out, pushed forward/backward, and can tilt left/right to provide the ideal position.

Once you’ve set your armrests’ stance, they’ll then lock into place securely.

The side controls that adjust the backrest tilt and the airbag lumbar support are plasticky and feel a little less premium than the actual chair itself, but they don’t ruin the overall aesthetic experience delivered by DXRacers’ Martian Pro.

DXRacer Martian Pro: Comfort and adjustability

• Plenty of adjustment options
• Built in heater, fan and massager
• Cushiony despite the gizmos

Even ignoring the massaging and heating enhancement, the DXRacer Martian Pro chair has a full range of comfort and adjustment options.

Firstly, using a control on the side of the chair you have the ability to recline the backrest gradually from further forward than you’d want to about as close to horizontal as possible without this chair becoming a bed – though with the back massager active this ultra recline supremely relaxing to the extent you could drift off (definitely, totally, assuredly not speaking from experience).

Then there’s the 4D armrests I mentioned above, and of course, the height adjustments you’d expect from a standard office chair.

The seat is a good size too, with enough room to sit comfortably cross-legged when I want.

Though for the lumbar support, I’d maybe knock a point off simply because the airbag design can be a little more finicky to adjust compared to a traditional pillow. The advantage is that once set, you don’t need to worry about it slipping out of place, but finding the comfiest position took more time than I’d have liked.

Your neck pillow, on the other hand, is much easier to get right. The magnetic attachment makes it supremely easy to find the exact right spot for it on the headrest, while holding it securely in place once you’ve made your placement decision.

But of course I can’t not devote some space to the heating, cooling, and the massager.

Starting with that third one, the massager is activated by pressing the M-button on the side of the chair and can swap between different modes by pressing it again, or switched off by holding the button down.

The massage is delivered by in-built actuators – four pairs (one for your right and one for your left) which start at your lower back and end around your shoulder blades – and while its isn’t especially intense, it can provide some much-needed relaxation during a stressful gaming session, or your work day.

Just note, it can be a little noisy.

Now for the heating and ventilation. These are built into the seat and activated via two buttons found below the right armrest – one for each option. Long pressing once activates the heating/cooling, then quick pressing it changes the setting between three strengths – long pressing again turns it off.

I was surprised by how quickly the heating kicks into gear even at the lowest setting, and over the colder months when I’ve been testing this chair, it has provided me with some much needed warmth. The fan is also great for cooling you down, and I expect I’ll be relying on it plenty come the summer.

Despite being jam-packed with electric gizmos, the chair feels pretty darn comfy. I use it all day, every day for work and enjoy every moment – and not simply because of the heater and the massager.

DXRacer Martian Pro: Assembly

• All required tools included in the box
• A little heavy thanks to electrical components
• Can be built alone, but would recommend getting a friend

Putting the DXRacer Martian Pro together was fairly straightforward. I was able to assemble it all on my own using just what came in the box, thanks to the clear instructions.

However, given the inclusion of massaging and heating components, this can make parts of the chair a little heavier than normal, so having an assistant to aid your construction is advisable, as it should make the process even smoother.

Should I buy the DXRacer Martian Pro

Buy it if…

Don’t buy it if…

Also consider

How I tested the DXRacer Martian Pro

I tested the DXRacer Martian Pro over a few months of UK Winter, giving me plenty of reason to use the in-built heater. It was my work office chair every day I worked from home during that time, and I also used it for PC and handheld gaming most days as well.

I also compared it to a handful of other gaming chairs we’ve tested, and of course, my trusty Spider-Man Anda Seat seat.

• Logitech has revealed a new wireless gaming headset, the G325 Lightspeed
• It costs $79.99 / £69.99 and offers high resolution 24-bit audio
• It's available now via the Logitech website and other retailers

Gaming hardware brand Logitech G has unveiled its latest wireless gaming headset, the Logitech G325 Lightspeed.

Retailing for just $79.99 / £69.99, it's a surprisingly affordable new model that's intended to deliver premium features at a relatively modest price. Its most significant specs include high resolution 24-bit audio and seamless built-in microphone.

It's designed to let you "play and chill anywhere" according to the brand, with a comfortable and stylish design that looks more like a pair of music listening cans than you average gaming gear. It's available in three colorways too: lilac, black, and white.

In terms of battery life, you can expect more than 24 hours of continuous use from a single charge. This is far behind the staggering 300+ hours offered by more premium alternatives like the HyperX Cloud Alpha Wireless, but certainly not bad for the price.

It supports multiple platforms including PC, consoles, and mobile via the Lightspeed wireless dongle or Bluetooth 5.2. On-headset controls should allow you to switch between the dongle and Bluetooth effortlessly, letting you quickly swap between a gaming session and unwinding with music.

“We want all gamers to have premium experiences,” said Logitech G general manager Ujesh Desai on the launch. “That's why we packed so much into the new G325 headset. It's got a super comfortable design, long battery life, great audio, and works across PC, console, and mobile. It's designed for gamers who love to play across a variety of platforms.”

You can buy the Logitech G325 Lightspeed now via the Logitech website, or at Argos if you're in the UK.

Great value, but competition is strong

The $79.99 / £69.99 price tag is certainly on the lower end by Logitech G standards, but it does mean the G325 Lightspeed will be up against some pretty stiff competition in the gaming headset space.

Favorite wired models like the HyperX Cloud III or Razer BlackShark V2 X come in around that price, and are easy to find for substantially less on sale if you're willing to give up wireless connectivity.

Logitech's own G435 Lightspeed is also a viable alternative, as it's wireless and frequently discounted to around the $50 / £30 mark. You lose a significant chunk of battery life compared to the G325 Lightspeed, but still get a similarly attractive design and the multi-platform compatibility.

I'm certainly keen to spend some time with this new arrival to see how it stacks up against its peers.

Razer BlackShark V3: One-minute review

The Razer BlackShark V3 wireless gaming headset is a truly fantastic piece of kit, which has finally convinced me to move on from the same headset I've been using for years. The sleek black design strays from the tacky-looking appearance of a lot of gaming headsets without losing the iconic branding of Razer products, but it never feels garish.

Controls on both earcups are straightforward and easy to use, too, giving you all the power you need in one convenient place rather than having to mess around with additional software. Plus, with 70 hours of battery life when fully charged, you're able to sink into all your favourite games with no threat of interruption.

Its crystal clear audio when gaming, paired with the outstanding microphone quality, makes it the only headset you need for your gaming setup too rather than needing platform-specific products.

The detachable microphone also makes it adaptable to suit your style, whether you're playing with friends over Discord or roaming around in-game while listening to some tunes. It's hard to want to use another headset once you've spent time with the BlackShark V3, which is high praise coming from a creature of comfort who doesn't like to change their peripherals often.

Razer BlackShark V3: Price and availability

• List price: $149.99 / £149.99 / AU$350
• Not exactly a budget-friendly headset, but quality makes it worth investing
• Has almost identical features to the (more expensive) BlackShark V3 Pro

The Razer BlackShark V3 wireless headset launched in July 2025, so a reasonable two years after the previous version: the BlackShark V2 HyperSpeed. Having also used the V2 HyperSpeed in the past, I can safely say those two years of extra baking time definitely paid off, and there are some noticeable differences to make the additional $20/£20 cost worthwhile. Such as a new set of Razer Triforce Titanium 50mm Drivers, a lightweight ergonomic design which really feels as if it's putting comfort first, and a shiny new HyperClear Super Wideband 9.9mm Mic to make sure none of your audio gets missed.

Compared to other premium wireless gaming headsets on the market, like the SteelSeries Arctis Nova Pro 7P Gen 2 or Astro A20 X, the BlackShark V3 isn't an extortionately priced product. In fact, the $149.99 price tag is a reasonable ask for what you're getting, considering how many premium wireless gaming headsets fall closer to the $200 mark.

It's not an eyewatering asking price compared to something like the SteelSeries Arctis Nova Elite, yet it still feels like a worthy upgrade if you're used to rocking budget-friendly gaming headsets. Having launched alongside the Razer BlackShark V3 X Hyperspeed, a tempting $99/£99/AU$179.95 headset, you may be convinced to cut costs and go for something that sounds almost identical in name. But you'd be doing yourself a complete disservice in doing so, which I need you to trust me on.

Razer BlackShark V3: Specs

Razer BlackShark V3: Design and features

• Black design is more elegant than RGB-intense gaming headsets
• Super lightweight design for long-term comfort
• Despite its middle-ground price tag, it definitely feels like a high-end product

The Razer BlackShark V3 wireless gaming headset looks practically identical to the other Razer BlackShark V3 sets: the V3 Pro and the V3 X HyperSpeed. It's got a sleek black design with subtle Razer branding on the earcups and headband, which I appreciate since so many gaming headsets would take any opportunity to shove colours and logos in your face, which is somewhere I found the Astro A20 X fell short, since its design verged on slightly too in-your-face. But it doesn't need an interesting or quirky design to be a good product. In fact, it's a perfect example of something being so simple yet so incredibly satisfying.

Both the headband and the earcups have firm cushioning and padding, and aren't made of that horrible glossy material a lot of cheaper headsets use, similar to a headset like the SteelSeries Arctis Nova 5, which boasts a similar build quality and black design. The headband used a breathable, almost netted fabric, and each earcup is made from breathable Sportsweave memory foam. Since the headset almost prides itself on being for esports, these elements have clearly been carefully designed to cater to being comfortable for competitive players. But for more casual gamers like me, they just feel like a nice treat.

Despite the firmness of the cushioning on both the headband and earcups, I was surprised at how comfortable they were in use. Usually, firmer earcups make wearing glasses when gaming uncomfortable as they push the arms into the side of your head, so I was shocked when I never experienced this discomfort.

All the controls you need are located on the ear cups too, which reduces the need for external software if you don't fancy downloading, with the left featuring all the important buttons like a textured power button alongside a smooth mic mute, so there's no chance of pressing the wrong thing when wearing the set.

In addition, a dial on the front of the ear cup is where you control your audio level, which is far easier to use than a scroll wheel on the bottom - something that most of the headsets I've used in the past specialise in. Now that I've had the convenience of a larger dial, I never want to go back to relying on these wheels, which are so easily knocked and altered.

The left cup is specifically for optimising your audio setup to suit what you're playing. Here, you've got a configurable roller which you can use for footsteps scaling in games like Battlefield 6 or Arc Raiders, game-chat balancing so you can sort out your game audio and Discord audio without having to open your audio mixer, and mic monitoring. This convenient wheel is accompanied by a smart switch button, too, in case you need to change your connection in an instant. Basically, the entire headset has been designed to make your life a lot easier and give you more game time rather than wasting precious minutes on sorting your peripherals.

The mic plugs into the right ear cup, too, which in itself boasts a sturdy build quality and matches the same sleek black design of the rest of the headset. If I had one complaint, it would be that the size of the foam cover is quite large, and it does feel pretty invasive given the short length of the mic as a whole.

That, and you can't conveniently store the microphone on or around the headset if you don't want to use the mic - you're at the mercy of your own ability to keep it safe when unplugged. Again, if you're used to the convenience of a compact headset like the SteelSeries Arctis Nova 5, then this may be a frustration. But these are such minor inconveniences that were almost instantly outweighed by the joy of using the headset.

Razer BlackShark V3: Performance

• Seamless setup, which means you can jump straight into use
• Might as well be noise-cancelling
• Customisable to suit whatever sort of gamer you are, competitive or not

Given I'd been using the SteelSeries Arctis Nova Pro headset until now, which I really praised as my holy grail, I thought the audio quality of a cheaper headset wouldn't be as impressive, and I couldn't be more mistaken. In fact, it's hard to express how impressive the sound quality of this mid-range headset really is without you hearing it for yourself.

The SteelSeries Arctis Nova Pro headset is by no means of bad quality. In fact, I was amazed by it when I first tested it and kept using it long after. However, I often found myself frustrated by all the wires that accompany it. After meeting the BlackShark V3, I feel as though I've got all the same sound quality as the Arctis Nova Pro with the satisfaction of a wireless headset.

From the second you set it up and start using the BlackShark V3, you're met with rich, deep audio, whether that's in-game or if you're just listening to some tunes while you do something else. For music-oriented games like Sword of the Sea and Herdling, two games I played during my testing of the BlackShark V3, the clear audio and almost noise-cancelling capabilities (though not actually part of the design) helped me to really sink into the game and experience each and every note in their soundtracks.

Even just watching YouTube videos or listening to in-game dialogue feels more intense, especially given the headset's ability to block out external audio without being completely noise-cancelling. The memory foam earcups really help in this regard, and they really help you from getting distracted by any noise around you.

This is also helped by the almost 70-hour battery life when fully charged, since you're rarely interrupted by those tedious beeps that remind you to plug it in. Battery life is a huge selling point with wireless headsets, which is another place the SteelSeries Arctis Nova 5, or any SteelSeries headset for that matter, becomes a close competitor with the BlackShark V3. If you do find yourself listening to these obnoxious reminders, what makes the Razer BlackShark V3 wireless headset worth investing in alone is the fact that a 15-minute charge provides you with an additional 6 hours of battery life.

You don't need to do any sort of additional setup to get an incredibly solid performance from the headset, though the option is there if you want it, courtesy of the additional Razer Audio software you can download. I don't usually bother with messing around with many settings, especially since I don't often find myself needing to enhance my audio to hear things like footsteps or distant gunshots, but it felt rude not to at least try it out in a game of Arc Raiders.

So, I downloaded the Razer Audio app and started playing around, and was once again pleasantly surprised with how easy it was to take your audio customisation that one step further. Paired with the configurable wheel, it feels as if the Razer BlackShark V3 headset really has been designed to enhance your gaming. Even though the packaging blatantly says it's an esports headset, all these details and ways to make your gaming experience that little bit easier by utilising all the audio cues of other players certainly reinforce that factor.

Although you can use Razer Synapse to customise things like your EQ settings and play around with THX Spatial Audio, the dedicated audio app definitely feels easier to use. Plus, having it conveniently on your phone rather than a desktop means you can more seamlessly customise your settings across platforms rather than having one setup on PC, and then others programmed in the app for console.

The buttons are incredibly well-positioned on both earcups, too. Unless you're a frequent connection switcher or a competitive gamer, you rarely need to use the left cup. And, the added texture on the power button makes using the buttons a breeze rather than having to go through that awkward fiddly phase of hitting the wrong thing when you change your headset, and you're not quite used to where everything is. Yes, I'm definitely projecting, but it's one of those little things that you don't really appreciate until you experience it.

Its impressive performance doesn't stop at its stellar button placement and crystal clear audio either. The 9.9mm HyperClear Super Wideband detachable mic offers astounding quality given its mid-range price tag, so much so that I actually received compliments on the "noticeable upgrade" compared to my old headset when jumping into a Discord call with my friends.

Should I buy the Razer BlackShark V3?

Buy it if...

Don't buy it if...

Also consider...

Still not sold on the Razer BlackShark V3 wireless gaming headset? Here's how it compares to two similar sets.

How I tested the Razer BlackShark V3

• Compared with my beloved SteelSeries Arctis Nova Pro headset
• Used every day for gaming and other media
• Mic tested in Discord calls and Google meets

As soon as I realised just how quality the BlackShark V3 was, I ditched my old SteelSeries Arctis Nova Pro headset. So, for two weeks, I've relied on this bit of kit to carry me through all sorts of adventures in games like Sword of the Sea, Once Upon a Katamari, and even made the most of its customization in a couple of rounds in Arc Raiders. Outside of gaming, it's also accompanied me for hours upon hours of Spotify sessions and the odd evening watching Netflix. If anything, these almost all-nighters definitely put the battery life to the test, too.

I also spent around 10 hours testing the BlackShark V3 with the PS5 in a decent session of Red Dead Redemption 2. I will admit, I wasn't jumping in for the fast, gunslinging combat, so I can't comment on how immersive that is. But, I must say the BlackShark V3 is phenomenal when it comes to showing off the natural sound design. Birdsong is clear as day with this headset, and I could've quite happily spent a lot longer riding around on my horse and tracking down every bird I could hear - something that I'd missed out on entirely when just relying on my TV's default speakers.

To test the microphone, I used the BlackShark V3 for meetings, voice calls, and multiplayer games like Peak, R.E.P.O., Outlast Trials, and shouting at my friends over Discord. Although I'd already put my old SteelSeries headset to one side, I did dust it off for a quick comparison, alongside my wireless Razer Kraken Hello Kitty and Friends edition Bluetooth headset, and they just don't compare.

First reviewed December 2025-January 2026.

Read more about how we test

Hori Puff Pouch for Nintendo Switch 2: review

Looking to protect your precious new Nintendo system? Then the Hori Puff Pouch for Nintendo Switch 2 could be worth checking out. This soft case is licensed by Nintendo itself, and has a range of compartments to help you organize your gaming gear – so is it worth picking up?

Well, if you’re not a massive fan of hard cases, it may tempt you. Yes, this is a pretty soft model, although it does still have a solid amount of padding to keep your console safe. You’ll find said padding on either side of the console compartment, which will soak up any impact in the event that you drop the case.

However, there are two other compartments – one in the center of the case, and a net in the front. These aren’t protected by much padding at all. So if you’re housing accessories in there, they may not be as well protected as they’d be in tougher models like the official Nintendo Switch 2 All-In-One Carrying Case, which is in our guide to the best Nintendo Switch 2 accessories.

Still, there’s plenty of room to house the power cable and adapter and a couple of other gadgets, like the official Nintendo Switch 2 Camera and a Nintendo Switch 2 Pro Controller, for example. As a mid-sized case, this one’s not really big enough for your dock – I was able to cram it in, but it was a bit of a tight fit. Other than the three main compartments, there are also six slots for Nintendo Switch 2 or original Switch games, which isn't the most I’ve ever seen, but plenty if you’re going on a short trip.

When it comes to this case’s design, I have fairly mixed feelings. One thing I do like is the handle, which adapts in length when you lift it up – as seen on the Hori Adventure Pack for Nintendo Switch 2. The handle also flows around the edge of the case, meaning you can pick the case up by its side if you'd prefer. On top of that, the zip is secure, and a hook and loop fastener inside the case keeps your console in place effectively.

However, I’m not a huge fan of how this thing looks. It reminds me of a purse – and not a particularly stylish one. The square-patterned design, the soft feel, the puffed-out appearance… it just doesn’t do it for me. Another thing worth noting is that the fabric exterior is very prone to picking up dust and fibers, which isn’t an issue I face with the official Nintendo Switch 2 Carrying Case & Screen Protector.

In spite of that, this is still a pretty well-priced case overall. The Puff Pouch comes in with a list price of $29.99 / £24.99 / AU$49.95, but I’ve seen it going for less in some territories – it’s going for as little as £17.50 with some retailers in the UK. Is it the most durable or stylish case I’ve tested? No. But the Hori Puff Pouch should still keep your console nice and safe, and provides a very decent amount of storage – soft case lovers should at least consider it at this price.

Hori Puff Pouch for Nintendo Switch 2 review: price & specs

Should I buy the Hori Puff Pouch for Nintendo Switch 2?

Buy it if…

Don’t buy it if…

Hori Puff Pouch for Nintendo Switch 2: also consider

How I tested the Hori Puff Pouch for Nintendo Switch 2

• Tested over the course of multiple days
• Took with me to the office and on walks
• Trialed by a Nintendo Switch 2 owner and life-long gamer

I tested the Hori Puff Pouch for Nintendo Switch 2 over the course of a couple of days, using it as the primary mode of transport for my system. I also tried slotting a couple of accessories into the case, including the Hori Piranha Plant Camera for Nintendo Switch 2 and a couple of third-party controllers.

To test the case’s durability, I made sure to drop it from a variety of distances and give the exterior a good scratching. Following this, I had a look for any wear and tear, to check if the model was as sturdy as advertised on Nintendo’s online store. I also compared this case to rivals on aspects like storage space and looks.

More generally, I’m a day-one Nintendo Switch 2 owner, a lifelong gamer, and an experienced tech reviewer. I’ve reviewed a whole lot of Switch 2 accessories too – I’m talking everything from cases through to screen protectors like the DBrand Prism 2.0 and cameras like the Hori USB Camera.

• Read more about how we test
• First reviewed: January 2026

When the Nintendo Switch 2 was first shown off last year, one of the most intriguing additions to the system was its GameChat functionality. Just press the C button, and you can chat with family or friends, and soak in every reaction – whether you’re overtaking on the last lap in Mario Kart or winning a minigame in Mario Party.

In order to enjoy GameChat at its best, I’d suggest picking up a camera for your Nintendo Switch 2. This will open up video capabilities, which aren’t only used for GameChat, but also for certain content in titles such as Super Mario Party Jamboree + Jamboree TV and the upcoming Switch 2 version of Animal Crossing: New Horizons.

But which Nintendo Switch 2 camera is the best? After testing three of the most popular models, I have one clear answer. That’s right, I’ve tried out the official Nintendo Switch 2 Camera, the Hori Piranha Plant Camera, and the Hori USB Camera to help you select the best model for your shiny new console.

I’ll compare all of these across three key metrics: design, performance, and value for money. Then, I’ll give my verdict on which camera is the best Nintendo Switch 2 accessory, and what truly sets it apart. With all of that said, let’s get right into our comparison.

Design: zooming in on the details

Now, in terms of design, there are a lot of similarities between Hori’s USB and Piranha Plant cameras. One key benefit these share is that they’re optimized for both TV and handheld play. When playing docked, you can place the cameras on their respective base and either mount them or place them on a flat surface. When you’re on the go, you can instead plug the webcam directly into the system’s top USB-C slot, which is incredibly practical.

Meanwhile, the official Switch 2 camera isn’t quite as versatile. It comes with a secure stand, which is optimal for docked gameplay, but isn’t detachable – yep, no specialized handheld mode here, folks.

Even if the official cam is a little more rigid than its rivals, one area it propels itself above them is in build quality. The stem and base of this camera are metallic and very well-made, giving the product a premium look and feel. It isn’t a very vibrant or exciting-looking piece of kit, but again, it’s got a sleek, elegant build, which feels on-brand with the Switch 2 console.

On the other hand, I’m not a massive lover of the Hori USB camera’s aesthetic. Sure, it’s ultra-compact, making it easy to throw in a case like the official Nintendo Switch 2 Carrying Case, but it does look a little bland.

The camera with the most pizzazz is clearly the Hori Piranha Plant Camera for Nintendo Switch 2. This model, which beautifully replicates the classic Super Mario baddie, has a closable mouth, which acts as a privacy shutter, an attachable leaf part, and even a base that looks like its iconic plant pot. It's colorful and eye-catching, which combined with its flexibility, makes it the best-designed model of the three, in my view.

Performance: lights, camera, action

Upon its release, the Hori Piranha Plant Camera was met with a fair share of criticism. Not for its design or for its price… but for its performance. See, this thing’s resolution is just 480p, which will seem very archaic to a lot of users.

What does this mean in practice? Well, you can expect unrefined results, with blurry faces, obscured details, and washed-out colors. What’s more, this remains the case for the Hori USB camera as well, meaning I can’t recommend either for those seeking out good picture quality.

These cameras also have a fairly limited field of view – 85 degrees to be exact. So, in the situation that you want to capture a bunch of players in your living room, the scope of these models may be too limiting. The only aspect that these cameras excel in, performance-wise, is tracking. They’ll frame your face pretty effectively in games like Mario Kart World – just don’t expect a sharp picture, especially from a distance.

It’s a very different story with the official Nintendo Switch 2 camera. Its 1080p resolution is a gigantic upgrade on the Hori models, producing a more detailed, color-accurate, and dynamic picture time after time. Still, 1080p is by no means revolutionary, and I picked up on some surroundings appearing a tad fuzzy, but this camera is certainly sharp enough for most users.

The official Switch 2 camera also has a better field of view – about 110 degrees, which makes it ideal for capturing larger groups. It runs at 30fps – the same as both Hori models, and all three cameras offered consistent motion in my testing. All things considered, then, the official Switch 2 camera is the clear winner when it comes to performance.

Value: which camera is really worth your money?

Finally, let’s talk about value for money, which is arguably the most important category of all. These cameras vary a little in price, with the Hori Piranha Plant typically coming in at $39.99 / £24.99 / AU$64.95 (after a widespread price-cut). Hori’s USB Camera usually sits at around the same mark, but the official Switch 2 camera has a list price of $54.99 / £49.99 / AU$69.95.

In this case, though, I think the additional spend is well worth it. The official camera may not be as versatile and compact as the Hori USB Camera or as groovy as the Piranha Plant, but its picture quality is so much better than theirs. It also has a robust, sleek design, and a neat privacy shutter of its own. As a result, it’s the only model I’d recommend outright for anyone looking to take their GameChat experiences up a notch.

PowerA Advantage Wireless Controller for Nintendo Switch 2: One-minute review

The PowerA Advantage Wireless Controller for Nintendo Switch 2 is just far too expensive to recommend.

As a Nintendo Switch 2 Pro Controller alternative that comes in at $69.99 / £49.99 (around AU$100) (that’s only $15 / £15 less than the going price of Nintendo’s official offering), it simply shouldn’t feel anywhere near as cheap and hollow as it does.

This is far from the only issue, as there is a raft of other problems to contend with. Although the PowerA Advantage Wireless Controller for Nintendo Switch 2 features all of the expected inputs (including two remappable rear ones), the Start and Select buttons are tiny and positioned right at the bottom of the pad’s face, making them difficult to press.

The triggers are also quite shallow, leading to a very unsatisfying pulling motion. If that wasn't enough, the hard plastic and abrasive texture around the tips of the thumbsticks make them uncomfortable to use over long periods of time.

These are all issues that were present with the much cheaper PowerA Advantage Switch 2 Wired Controller, but it’s much easier to forgive on a model that starts at just $39.99 / £29.99. It’s especially egregious when even super budget controllers like the $24.99 / £29.99 GameSir Nova Lite don’t suffer from anywhere near the same number of problems.

The PowerA Advantage Wireless Controller for Nintendo Switch 2 isn’t a total lost cause, though. The battery life, which can reach up to 30 hours, is strong, and its motion controls work well. You also get the option of far more interesting designs than you would find with the official offering, which is pretty neat.

PowerA Advantage Wireless Controller for Nintendo Switch 2: Price and availability

• Costs $69.99 / £49.99 (around AU$100)
• Official Pro Controller goes for $85 / £64.99
• Not strong value for money

At $69.99 / £49.99 (around AU$100), the PowerA Advantage Wireless Controller for Nintendo Switch 2 is not particularly good value for money, especially when you can find the official Pro Controller for around $15 / £15 more in either the US or UK at the time of writing.

The hollow build quality is almost identical to the significantly cheaper $39.99 / £29.99 PowerA Advantage Switch 2 Wired Controller, so I don’t understand why PowerA thought it would be appropriate to hike up the price just for the addition of wireless connectivity and motion controls.

If this controller were to cost around $49.99 / £39.99, then this would be a much more positive review - but it’s just not competitive at its asking price. This is especially true when you factor in similar costing third-party options like the 8BitDo Ultimate 2, which is far superior in terms of build and features.

The PowerA Advantage Wireless Controller for Nintendo Switch 2 is at least widely available in the US and UK via the PowerA website or retailers like Amazon.

PowerA Advantage Wireless Controller for Nintendo Switch 2: Specs

PowerA Advantage Wireless Controller for Nintendo Switch 2: Design and features

• Standard controller shape
• Row of buttons at the bottom
• Features remappable rear inputs

The PowerA Advantage Wireless Controller for Nintendo Switch 2 looks like your standard Nintendo Switch or Nintendo Switch 2 controller, with the usual face buttons and asymmetrical thumbstick layout. Although this controller is compatible with both systems, it features a dedicated C button like the official Nintendo Switch 2 Pro Controller.

My only real issue with the design here is the positioning of the Start and Select buttons. They’re tiny and arranged as part of a row with the Capture, Home, and C buttons that are positioned right at the bottom of the face of the controller. They’re awkward to hit as a result, and frequently required me to reposition my hands a little in order to reach them, which is a frustrating oversight. They sit above a little LED light bar, which illuminates when the controller is in use.

I tested the ‘Mario and Friends’ variant of this pad, which has a colorful Super Mario-inspired pattern. The print is high quality, and the colors are pleasant, which definitely gives this controller some edge over Nintendo’s comparatively boring Switch 2 Pro Controller in terms of looks. There is also a cute Kirby design available, or a more subdued Pokémon one. The controller is also offered in plain black if you prefer.

On the back of the pad are the two programmable rear inputs and a dedicated programming button. Unlike the Nintendo Switch 2 Pro Controller, where everything is remapped through software, this pad requires a bit of fiddling with the programming button in order to get your desired bindings set up. The process is quick and intuitive, though, so it’s hard to dock PowerA any points for it.

The company does lose marks for its choice of plastics, though, which are noticeably lower quality than those found on Nintendo’s first-party hardware. The whole controller has an almost brittle feel to it, and I don’t think it would fare well if it were dropped on a hard floor, even from a modest height.

The huge visible screw holes on the back of the controller also don’t do it any favors, lending it a very cheap appearance from behind

PowerA Advantage Wireless Controller for Nintendo Switch 2: Performance

• Uncomfortable thumbsticks
• Shallow triggers
• Otherwise fairly solid

The best thing I can say about the PowerA Advantage Wireless Controller for Nintendo Switch 2 is that it does at least function, and is still suitable for casual players or as a spare in multiplayer environments. It’s not very pleasant to use, though, thanks to a few major flaws.

Firstly, while the thumbsticks here do contain Hall effect sensors, which is good for longevity, they’re made of a hard plastic and have an abrasive texture around their tips that becomes uncomfortable for the thumbs over extended play sessions.

The controller’s triggers are also very shallow but simultaneously rather spongy and thus almost impressively unsatisfying to pull. The D-pad is pretty bad too, with a similarly spongy feel and a very flat, broad shape that makes precise inputs difficult. This is definitely not a controller that you would want to dive into a shooter or retro platformer with.

As is common with third-party Nintendo Switch 2 controllers, you also don’t get support for HD rumble or amiibo. The PowerA Advantage Wireless Controller for Nintendo Switch 2 does gain points for its motion control support, however, and I found it more than accurate enough for pointer controls in games like Super Mario Galaxy 2.

The battery life is another strong suit. PowerA claims that you can achieve up to 30 hours per charge, and I found this figure to be accurate. It’s a bit less than the staggering 40 hours offered by the Nintendo Switch 2 Pro Controller, but still among the best in the third-party scene.

Once you get used to the positioning of the Start and Select buttons, the rest of the pad is perfectly solid to use. The buttons feel decent and all work as intended, and I never experienced any issues with connectivity or pairing.

Should I buy the PowerA Advantage Wireless Controller for Nintendo Switch 2?

Buy it if…

Don’t buy it if…

Also consider...

Not pleased by what the PowerA Advantage Wireless Controller for Nintendo Switch 2 brings to the table? Here are two more premium alternatives worth weighing up.

How I tested the PowerA Advantage Wireless Controller for Nintendo Switch 2

• Tested for more than two weeks
• Tried with a wide range of games
• Compared to a range of other controllers

I tested the PowerA Advantage Wireless Controller for Nintendo Switch 2 for a period of two and a half weeks. During that time, I tested a wide range of Nintendo Switch and Nintendo Switch 2 games, such as Mario Kart World, Super Mario Galaxy 2, Cyberpunk 2077: Ultimate Edition, Hitman World of Assassination – Signature Edition, and more.

I frequently compared my experience to my hands-on testing of other Nintendo Switch 2 peripherals, including PowerA’s own PowerA Advantage Switch 2 Wired Controller and the Nintendo Switch 2 Pro Controller.

Read more about how we test

First reviewed January 2026

Seagate FireCuda 530R with heatsink: One-minute review

The Seagate FireCuda 530R with heatsink could be one of the best SSDs for PS5 but, at least for the moment, the pricing is out of control. The 1TB model is difficult to find, while the 2TB and 4TB variants come in at an eye-watering $365 / £220 and $599 / £539.99 respectively at third party sellers on sites like Amazon and Newegg.

This makes it almost impossible to recommend at these prices, especially when alternatives like the WD Black SN850P and Lexar NM790 with Heatsink are in stock cheaper. Of course, this is entirely being driven by the ongoing RAM shortage (which also affects SSDs with DRAM chips), so I will look to update this review if and when they come down to more reasonable rates.

Pricing aside, the Seagate FireCuda 530R with heatsink is a solid, if somewhat unremarkable, PS5 SSD. With quoted read speeds of up to 7,400 MB/s read and 7,000 MB/s write (for the 1TB model) it’s one of the fastest models on the market on paper - though I found its performance to be less impressive in the real world than these figures would suggest.

The 2TB model that I tested scored an underwhelming 6,030MB/s speed on the internal PS5 storage benchmark putting it behind both the WD Black SN850P and Lexar NM790 with Heatsink, not to mention the company’s own officially licensed Seagate Game Drive M.2 SSD for PS5. Still, it’s comfortably above the 5,500 MB/s speed recommended by Sony and doesn’t increase loading times in any noticeable way.

As you would expect for a model marketed towards PS5 owners, the Seagate FireCuda 530R with heatsink comes with a chunky heatsink fitted out of the box. It’s very similar to the one found on the Seagate Game Drive M.2 SSD - albeit with a colorful orange line graphic rather than a blue one. As is the case with that drive, I found it to be perfectly effective.

As a result, the Seagate FireCuda 530R with heatsink could be a great pick for the right price. At the moment, I wouldn’t rush to add it to your basket though given the inflated rates.

Seagate FireCuda 530R with heatsink: Price and availability

• 1TB is $130 / £145 / around AU$290, 2TB is $365 / £220 / around AU$440, 4TB is $599 / £539.99 / around AU$1080
• Prices vary and are hard to pin down
• Stock is hard to find in the US and UK

In the US the Seagate FireCuda 530R with heatsink costs around $130 for the 1TB model - though I wasn’t able to find any retailers carrying stock of that variant at the time of writing. 2TB and 4TB models are easier to find though with stock available at Newegg. There, 2TB goes for $365, while 4TB is $599. Both of these prices come from a third-party seller and are disproportionately high, so I would avoid buying them for now.

In the UK it’s even harder to find, as it’s currently out of stock at Amazon. Historical price data shows that the 1TB model cost around £145, while the 2TB was £220 when both were in stock. The 4TB model is currently available at Overclockers UK, where it costs £539.99.

Seagate told me that a 1TB model of the drive is currently meant to cost $114.99 / £158.99, while 2TB and 4TB are supposed to be $194.99 / £271.99 and $394.99 / £516.99 respectively - though the representative was careful to clarify that “SSD prices are currently very volatile” and “can change daily” (that latter part was even in bold for emphasis).

Seagate FireCuda 530R with heatsink: Specs

Seagate FireCuda 530R with heatsink: Design and features

• Chunky heatsink fitted out the box
• Readily PS5 compatible
• Good warranty coverage

The Seagate FireCuda 530R with heatsink looks remarkably similar to the Seagate Game Drive M.2 SSD for PS5, though with some small aesthetic differences. For starters, the chunky heatsink of the FireCuda bears a little ‘FireCuda’ logo print and a subtle orange decal. Despite the size of the heatsink, this model easily fits into the PS5’s storage bay.

It comes well-packaged in a plastic tray with a little foam insert to keep the pins safe and a little pack of documentation. In there you’ll find an advert for Seagate’s Rescue data recovery service, a basic manual with some general advice on fitting the SSD, and information about the drive’s warranty.

In applicable regions you get five years of limited warranty coverage here, which should be enough to see you through the rest of the PS5’s lifespan and is on par with what’s offered by the competition. The drive’s quoted 5,050 TBW durability is also excellent.

Seagate FireCuda 530R with heatsink: Performance

• Underwhelming benchmark score
• Decent real-world performance
• Heatsink seems effective

Despite the lofty quoted speeds, the Seagate FireCuda 530R with heatsink achieved quite an underwhelming result in the PS5’s internal storage benchmark coming to just 6,030MB/s which is on the lower end of the results for SSDs that I’ve tested. Still, this is more than fast enough for the PS5 and in my testing didn’t impact playing in any noticeable way.

While the substantially cheaper Lexar NM790 with Heatsink caused occasional stutters in demanding games like Marvel’s Spider-Man 2 and Assassin’s Creed Valhalla, the Seagate FireCuda 530R with heatsink was silky smooth in every title that I tested.

Its performance in my usual real-world file transfer tests was also decent. Copy to the SSD from the PS5’s internal storage, 68.75GB of Warhammer 40,000: Space Marine 2 took just 44 seconds to transfer. The drive performs very well with even larger file sizes too, with the 86.33GB Ghost of Yotei copied in just 45 seconds. A combination of both games totaling 154.7GB only took 1 minute and 24 seconds.

Smaller titles were a little bit slower, with the 16.85GB Wuchang: Fallen Feathers taking eight seconds and the tiny 1.2GB C Smash VRS taking just two.

Copying from the SSD back to the console, Warhammer 40,000: Space Marine 2 and Ghost of Yotei were ready in 4 minutes and 41 seconds and 6 minutes and 5 seconds respectively, while both at once took 10 minutes and 17 seconds. Finally, Wuchang: Fallen Feathers was ready to launch after 1 minute and 13 seconds while C Smash VRS took 13 seconds. These figures are all perfectly adequate, though realistically more dependent on the PS5’s internal write speed than anything else.

There was no noticeable slowdown throughout my testing, which would indicate that the chunky heatsink does its job well and curbs thermal throttling.

Should I buy the Seagate FireCuda 530R with heatsink?

Buy it if...

Don't buy it if...

Also consider...

After some alternatives to the Seagate FireCuda 530R with heatsink? Here are two to consider.

How I tested the Seagate FireCuda 530R with heatsink

• Tested for a week
• Tried with multiple games
• Compared to other PS5 SSDs

I tested the Seagate FireCuda 530 with heatsink for a week, fitting it to my personal PS5 console. During that time I evaluated its performance with a range of copy tests, in addition to recording the console’s internal benchmark score and trying it with a range of installed games to determine whether the SSD would cause any impact on smoothness.

Throughout my time with the SSD I compared the experience to my hands-on testing of other models including the Samsung 990 Pro with Heatsink, WD Black SN850P, Lexar NM790 with Heatsink, Seagate Game Drive M.2 SSD for PS5, Lexar Play 2280 and more.

Read more about how we test

First reviewed January 2026

Hori Adventure Pack for Nintendo Switch 2: review

It’s no secret that the Nintendo Switch 2 is an expensive piece of kit, so if you recently got your hands on one, it’s crucial to keep it protected. So, in steps the Hori Adventure Pack for Nintendo Switch 2 – a sturdy cross-body case that’s licensed by Nintendo itself.

This model is a little different from others I’ve tested, due to its versatile design. It can be held like a typical case, thanks to a built-in handle, which adjusts automatically as you lift it up. But there’s also a strap that enables you to wear the Adventure Pack like a cross-body bag. You can change the tightness of the fit to suit you, and it works pretty well. Personally, I don’t think this looks all too stylish, but if you need free hands, the strap is a welcome option. When you don’t want to use said strap, it can easily slot into a mesh fabric pouch on the reverse side of the case, ensuring that it looks tidy at all times.

A big positive of the Hori Adventure Pack is its generous storage space. It’s a little too small to hold your console, dock, and all the wires – well, you could cram them all in, but it’s going to be a very tight squeeze. Still, there’s plenty of room for your console inside, and the case’s outer pocket is large enough to house some of the best Nintendo Switch 2 accessories.

There’s a specific pouch to hold your Nintendo Switch 2 console with the Joy-Con 2 controllers attached. It’s a touch narrow, so you’ll have to carefully place your system inside, but there is a velcro strap to keep it secure. You’ll also find six game cartridge slots inside the case – not the highest amount I’ve seen, but enough for a short trip away, for example.

Looks-wise, the Hori Adventure Pack is decent. It has a rubber-like handle and upper half, which looks fairly stylish, but is susceptible to picking up dust and marks. The rest of the case is made up of a scratch-resistant fabric and a net to conceal the carry strap. It comes in all black and isn’t anything flashy, but it will suit those who prefer an understated aesthetic.

Is this the most sturdy case I’ve tested? Well, perhaps not – it doesn’t have the tough exterior of the Nacon Protection Case XL for Nintendo Switch 2, say. But it’s still a pretty resilient model. It has a padded, robust feel to it, and when I dropped the case from waist height, there weren’t any signs of damage.

Let’s finish things off by talking about value. This case is typically priced at $34.99 / £26.99 / AU$54.95, which is reasonable given the amount of storage space on offer and the versatility of its design. I’ve also seen Hori's Adventure Pack go on sale in some territories, with its price dropping as low as £18.89 on My Nintendo Store in the UK.

Considering that the official Nintendo Switch 2 Carrying Case will set you back $39.99 / £20.99 / AU$39.95 – a stylish choice, but one that has a lot less storage space – I think you’re getting good bang for your buck from the Adventure Pack. All things considered, then, this is a strong case from Hori, and its combination of a unique design with a modest price tag ensures that it's well worth considering.

Hori Adventure Pack for Nintendo Switch 2 review: price & specs

Should you buy the Hori Adventure Pack for Nintendo Switch 2?

Buy it if…

Don’t buy it if…

Hori Adventure Pack for Nintendo Switch 2: also consider

Hori Adventure Pack for Nintendo Switch 2 review: how I tested

• Tested over the course of multiple days
• Took it with me to the office and on walks
• Trialled by a Nintendo Switch 2 owner and life-long gamer

I took my Switch 2 on the go inside the Hori Adventure Pack for multiple days in a row. During this time, I also packed in a couple of accessories and made sure to try out both the handle and strap carrying methods.

In order to get a measure of this case’s durability, I dropped it from various distances and also gave the exterior a good scratch. After this, I checked for any wear and tear to ensure the model was as sturdy as advertised. I also compared this case to rivals on aspects like storage space and looks.

More generally, I’m a day-one Nintendo Switch 2 owner, a lifelong gamer, and an experienced tech reviewer with a ton of experience with Switch 2 accessories. I’ve trialled a range of products, including cases, but also screen protectors like the DBrand Prism 2.0, and cameras, like the Hori Piranha Plant Camera for Nintendo Switch 2.

Read more about how we test

First reviewed: December 2025-January 2026

If you thought console gamers were safe from the ongoing RAM shortage, then I'm afraid to say that you were sorely mistaken.

Sure, the price of a shiny new PlayStation 5 or Nintendo Switch 2 hasn't shot up just yet (though Nintendo has warned that it's monitoring the situation), but we're already seeing the cost of some key accessories rising rapidly.

If you were in the market for one of the best SSDs for PS5, then you're in a tough spot. Prices have skyrocketed across the board at online retailers like Amazon with our most recommended models like the 2TB Samsung 990 Pro with Heatsink up more than 80% (that's an increase to an eye-watering $319.99 from the somewhat more reasonable rate of around $170 in November last year).

The NANDpocalypse is upon us

Why is this happening? In part it's due to the massively increased cost of the NAND flash memory chips fitted to most SSDs as more and more resources are turned towards building short-term and long-term memory for AI data centres.

As reported by PCGamer, storage giant Kingston has already seen a 246% hike in NAND costs in less than a year and, of course, it's inevitable that much of that is passed on to the consumer.

Back in December, the company's datacenter SSD business manager Camera Crandall advised consumers to upgrade their storage "now" because "prices are going to continue to go up" seemingly indefinitely.

The CEO of NAND manufacturer Phison sounded the alarm even earlier, revealing that most manufacturers were already "sold out" for the entire of 2026 as early as November 2025.

All of this means that prices aren't going to come down in the foreseeable future and, unless you get extremely lucky and manage to find stock at pre-surge rates, it's a terrible time to buy as a result.

Don't lose all hope

Realistically, if you don't already have a PS5 SSD on hand then you should really start seriously considering some alternatives.

The most simple solution (aside from just gritting your teeth and uninstalling loads of games every time you need to free up space) is to pick up one of the best PS5 external hard drives instead.

You can't use them to run PS5 games natively, though they can store them in between play sessions, but their lack of NAND memory means that prices are still mercifully normal right now.

I have a massive 5TB Seagate Game Drive for PS5 fitted to my personal PS5 and, while it's not quite as convent as an SSD, at just $149.99 / £139.99 it's a hell of a lot cheaper.

You can check out some of my other personal picks below.

• GameSir has revealed a new collaboration product with Hyperkin
• The new GameSir x Hyperkin X5 Alteron is billed as "the world's first, fully modular mobile gaming controller"
• It's a telescopic mobile controller that offers a range of interchangeable modules

Gaming peripheral brand GameSir has just revealed a new collaboration with retro accessory maker Hyperkin in the new GameSir x Hyperkin X5 Alteron.

Billed as "the world's first, fully modular mobile gaming controller," it's a mobile gamepad with interchangeable components that seem geared towards either modern mobile games or retro emulation.

It shares a similar telescopic design to many of the best mobile controllers, with an extending arm, that can fit a wide range of devices from Android phones and iPhones to the Nintendo Switch, Nintendo Switch 2, and iPads. Thanks to its Bluetooth connectivity, it can even be used with a PC if you wish.

It boasts interchangeable button modules that allow you to do everything from switching between a symmetrical and asymmetrical layout to adding dedicated GameCube, Nintendo 64, or fighting game controls.

One option even involves the addition a dedicated track pad, similar to the trackpads of the Steam Deck, which could be a game-changer for first-person shooters.

The controller also sounds compelling from a durability standpoint. It uses drift-resistant capacity thumbsticks, clicky tactile buttons, and Hall effect triggers.

There's no word on price (though with these kinds of high-end specs I wouldn't be surprised if we're looking at something over the $100 mark) or an official release date yet, but the X5 Alteron is currently on display at CES 2026.

Hopefully we'll hear more about the product soon.

Brain-reading company Neurable is working with HyperX on new products aimed at using neuroscience to improve your gaming performance. The idea is to have gaming headsets with built-in EEG sensors that read your brainwaves as you play, and use the data to not only help you boost your accuracy and reaction times, but also avoid tilting and performance crashes.

TechRadar has experience with Neurable's tech: we tested the Master & Dynamic MW75 headphones, which use the same kind of technology to help you monitor your focus levels and your risk of burnout at work.

The collaboration was announced at CES 2026 and focuses on two areas: improving your headspace before you play in order to improve performance, and monitoring activity while playing to see if you're maintaining peak levels.

I got a chance to try a prototype of the technology and to speak to Dr. Ramses Alcaide, CEO and co-founder of Neurable, to hear more about what it can do and the plan for the future.

I was able to test the technology using a prototype developed with HyperX, but that's still far from the final gaming headset they have planned – for a start, it didn't have a mic boom. It was also pretty heavy, and I'm sure they'll work on a lighter one for long-term gaming sessions.

But the main thing is that the tech worked, and is instantly really interesting.

What's the big idea?

It's not news that your mental state can really affect your performance – whether that's gaming, work, or sports. But what's interesting about Neurable's tech is that if you try to do something about it, like meditating, you're not just guessing whether it's making a difference or not – the improvement is measurable.

"Especially in games like StarCraft or in shooting games like Counter-Strike, one of the biggest issues that exists is that you normally have to choose between reaction time or accuracy, right? You can move quickly, but it may mean that your shots are landing worse. And the same thing happens with RTSes – your APM can be very high, but the quality of your APM can, can drop dramatically. And so this is the first time where you can handle one of the biggest issues that gamers have, which is getting yourself mentally primed for the activity," explains Alcaide.

So the first part of what Neurable is offering is a 'Prime' programming, which is designed to get you in the zone. At the moment, it takes the form of a cloud of dots, like a nebula spinning in space. If you increase your level of focus, the cloud of dots compresses, reducing the space between them until they become just one central dot, and then shrink to nothing.

"The thing is that your brain is highly plastic, which means it's able to adapt very rapidly," says Alcaide. "As you start to focus and clear your mind, these dots get smaller and smaller, and then if you start to mind wander and drift and think about, you know, other things that are happening, it'll start to get bigger. And so the core goal here is to make it get smaller and smaller and smaller until essentially this turns into a dot and disappears and you're ready, through this simple form of biofeedback."

"But the most key part is it has to be tied directly to the user state, you can't just make the dot get smaller. It has to really be training the brain, biofeedbacking the brain in order to get to this state, and then it moves the user to a different mental performance level than where they were when they started."

"If something just happened to you, you know, you heard bad news, your cognitive load shoots up like crazy. It's so hard to focus and get back into that zone. And so essentially what the system does is it helps in train your brain so that it reduces your cognitive load while increasing your focus, so that you can essentially get into that locked-in state and reach your real potential more consistently," says Alcaide.

"And what we've seen is decreases in reaction time, increases in target hits – usually you have to pick one of the two, but we're seeing both go up as they're doing these sessions."

Neurable's stats claim that pro-level eSports players improved target-aiming accuracy by about 3% by using the 'Priming' process, while the average improvement across all players is around 1.5%. The improvement in reaction time is around 40 milliseconds on average, which I found especially interesting – that's a few frames.

Naturally, I went through the Prime process myself. First, I went through a target-shooting practice session on Aimlabs without any preparation and scored around 34,000.

Next, I went through the Prime exercise. Neurable's Dr Alicia Howell-Munson, a Research Scientist and lead on the gaming-focused technology, gave me some tips for entering a focus state when looking at the cloud of dots, such as focusing on a particular dot's movement as it spins.

I found that was a useful start, because they're not easy to follow as they all cross each other – but I can imagine that some people might actually find it better to look 'past' the cloud and focus by allowing the moving pattern to overwhelm their vision.

I found that as the cloud of dots shrank, I started to see patterns and structure in the dots that I hadn't interpreted before, and so I started focusing on those instead – not intentionally, just naturally. Already, it felt like I was finding a flow state.

After around 45 seconds, I'd shrunk the dots and was ready to do. The Neurable team told me that it often takes anywhere from two minutes to four minutes, and that a shorter time suggested I was already in a fairly focused mental state – perhaps not a surprise since I'd already done the target practice once.

I also did the Prime exercise a second time at the end of my demo session so we could get photos, and that not only took longer, but I actually regressed, with the cloud becoming larger again, when the camera entered my eyeline, so you can see the instant effect that distractions have.

After Priming, I retook the same Aimlabs test and scored around 37,000. My reaction time decreased by a very small amount (only around 5ms), but my accuracy jumped over 2%. Just from less than a minute of biofeedback meditation, of a kind.

What's going on?

"Essentially, we're tracking two key metrics," explains Alcaide. "One is cognitive load. So how much of their brain is currently at capacity, right? And then the second one is their focus, or how well you can maintain attention on a particular task."

"Now, they seem kind of similar, but they're very different. You can have a high focus and have a low cognitive load, which is the ultimate way of playing."

"We did some work actually with the Singapore Air Force, where we saw that expert pilots were the ones who had really high focus, they were able to maintain their attention, but it required a very low amount of mental cognitive load. Which means that when something happened, they had a lot of capacity still left in their brain to be able to react and to make adjustments, and to be able to think quickly.

"But if your brain is filled with a whole bunch of thoughts, not only is it hard for you to focus, but then adding more things to your brain while you're focusing creates overflow, which increases errors, essentially per minute in the case of these of these pilots, and also reduces your reaction time."

To measure these elements, Neurable uses an EEG to measure alpha, beta, and theta brain waves. "Beta and theta are usually tied to how fast your brain is processing. We use those through our proprietary pipeline that that boosts the signal to noise [ratio], which is what our company does. We use AI to boost the signal brain data, so that it comes at a level similar to a high-end brain-computer interface."

Alcaide is referring to the need for an elaborate helmet and even conductive gel to get good EEG readings in many cases, but Neurable is able to get accurate enough readings with just the pads of a pair of headphones (or using earbuds and even glasses, they told me).

The data the headset is reading isn't just useful for the Prime process, though. It can potentially be useful for eSports training purposes, and Neurable also showed me a concept of your brain's focus and capacity readings being visible during a Twitch stream, much like how some streamers show their heart rate today.

One of the simplest uses of this ongoing data reading could be to help you improve the quality of your practice.

"[The software] tells you to take a break when you're cognitively tired, not when you're physically tired. Your brain has no pain receptors, so when you feel physically tired, that's when you normally take a break. But if you take a break when your brain is tired, you can actually boost your productivity for one to three hours per day," says Alcaide.

"So just imagine something like that: you're playing, it tells you to go take a 10 minute walk. And now you're getting effectively one to three more hours of practice per day. And that's good practice, not crap practice, right?

"Or prevention of tilt, like there's just so many things that we haven't even tapped into yet."

There's a lot of potential in using the data the headset can connect to, so you can link your brain data to replays of your performance and see whether something changed before you made mistakes or what state you were in during your best period.

In a practice tool like Aimlabs, each score could have brain data connected, so you can look for patterns.

And game developers could even use your brain data to create emergent events – scaring you at the right moment, for example.

I asked whether any additional factors could improve the data's accuracy in the future. Alcaide notes that most other biometric data that can be tracked is actually also reflected in the brain, so Neurable's tech gets most of what it can use anyway.

However, there's one element he calls out as an area to add to the system: "Eye tracking is way faster than brain data, so we could probably use eye tracking to identify what [someone] focusing on, and then the brain can give us an accurate reading of how attention they paid. You know, were they just looking there or were they actually processing the information?"

Alcaide also notes that the tech could be used for better team play, not just individual play: "We're really just scratching the surface of like what's possible, right? Teamwork I think is going to be one of the biggest areas in eSports that we're going to start to see for this technology.

"There's been a lot of incredible research done, with something called 'team synchrony'. So, for example, you can put an EEG system like the ones that I have right now, and then you can see whether the team's brain waves are synced or unsynced, and what they found is that teams that display more synchrony across their brain waves usually perform better, especially at tasks where they're collaborating, they're working together to solve a problem."

Performance enhancement

I asked whether Neurable is worried about its tools being banned from competition if they're really effective, and they noted that they already have a pro poker player who uses their tech to focus their mind.

"There are multiple techniques that gamers use to clear their minds already. This is just a way where it removes the skill level required to be able to get into that type of mental training. It makes it easier. It's like, instead of telling somebody 'hey, just get it out of your head', you're teaching them how to meditate." says Alcaide.

"It's just giving a little bit of a of a opportunity for people to to get in the zone, before they go into things, and actually I was just earlier today talking with an NBA player that wants to use it for the same sort of thing. It's like listening to music before you go play, right? So I don't think that's, that's necessarily something that we're concerned about."

When will you be able to try this out yourself? Both the software and hardware are still under development, but the aim is to have something available in around a year – it's not impossible you'll see a product in 2026, but CES 2027 is maybe more likely.

I only had a brief demo, but I found the Prime process immediately impactful – I think I'd active want to go through the process before firing up a game, no because I'm desperate for the few points of extra accuracy, but because the process of clearing your mind – and knowing you've truly taken steps in clearing it, because you're not just following an animation, the animation is responding to your success – felt really beneficial in of itself.

TechRadar will be extensively covering this year's CES, and will bring you all of the big announcements as they happen. Head over to our CES 2026 news page for the latest stories and our hands-on verdicts on everything from wireless TVs and foldable displays to new phones, laptops, smart home gadgets, and the latest in AI.

And don’t forget to follow us on TikTok and WhatsApp for the latest from the CES show floor!

One-minute review

The Asus ROG Destrier Core is a compelling option if you’re searching for a mesh gaming chair and don’t mind paying a little bit more for a refreshingly stylish overall design.

The brand claims that the striking look was inspired by a ‘futuristic cyborg aesthetic’ and, while I personally don’t see the resemblance, the abundance of sharp angles helps it stand out in a sea of generic racing seats. It’s still sleek enough to blend into an office environment, with little details like the attached ROG fabric strap and subtle ‘Republic of Gamers’ engraving that mean it will look just as at home in a high-end gaming setup like any of the best gaming chairs.

It’s very comfortable to sit on too, with its breathable nylon mesh ensuring that heat won’t build up over even the longest gaming sessions. I’ve been using this chair at my desk at TechRadar Gaming HQ for months, and it’s helped me keep cool both during the stuffy summer months and throughout winter when the heating is mercilessly cranked up to uncomfortable levels.

Despite its thin overall profile, it still provides a good level of lumbar support thanks to an adjustable system in its backrest and the ability to tweak seat height and depth to find the perfect sitting position. The included headrest is also a nice touch, offering substantially more comfort and adjustability than the much more static magnetic cushion found on the competing Secretlab Titan Evo 2022.

My only major complaint with the Asus ROG Destrier Core relates to the setup process out of the box. I assemble gaming chairs every other week, and this is one of the few models that I’ve struggled with. The included instructions are perfectly clear, but getting the heavy backrest into position so that you can screw everything together is tricky to do alone, and had me drafting a colleague in to help hold it in position.

Luckily, you’ll only have to do this once - but it is worth bearing in mind that you might need a friend on hand.

Price and availability

• Costs $629.99 / £499.99 / around AU$600
• Available via Asus and online retailers
• Strong competition at this price

The Asus ROG Destrier Core Gaming Chair costs $629.99 / £499.99 / around AU$600. It’s readily available direct from Asus or at online retailers such as Amazon.

This price tag puts the chair towards the upper bracket of the mid-range market, coming in above supremely popular alternatives like the $519 / £414 / AU$724 Secretlab Titan Evo 2022.

What makes the Asus ROG Destrier Core Gaming Chair worth picking in the face of such strong competition? The mesh material and the unique design, namely. Quality mesh gaming chairs are generally expensive, with the likes of the Razer Fujin Pro at an eye-watering $1,049 / £999, so this price tag is not too unreasonable.

Specs

Design and aesthetics

• Unique look
• Quality materials
• Subtle branding

With its distinctly angular look, the Asus ROG Destrier Core is pretty stylish as far as gaming chairs go. Asus has kept the aesthetic very minimalist, with most of the branding confined to subtle details.

This includes a neat fabric strap on the back of the headrest, which doubles as a convenient way to yank the chair around if you want to move it. There’s also a small ‘Republic of Gamers’ engraving on its spine, and a subtle ROG logo on the back of the headrest’s mesh.

Looking at the chair head-on, the only real indication that this is indeed a gaming product is the red ROG emblem emblazoned on the headrest. If this isn’t to your liking, though, Asus also offers a white version of the chair that swaps the red out for a much more subtle silver color.

As you would expect, given the price tag, the materials here are flawless across the board. The nylon mesh is impressively strong, and the armrests benefit from a soft layer of foam padding. The casters are smooth, gliding across surfaces with ease and minimal noise.

This chair has been used heavily throughout its time at our office so far, with someone sitting in it every weekday for months, and in that time, it's sustained very few visible marks or scuffs, which is particularly impressive.

Comfort and adjustability

• Adjustable lumbar support and 3D armrests
• “Mobile gaming mode”
• Highly comfortable to use

There is no shortage of adjustment options with the Asus ROG Destrier Core Gaming Chair. It offers the standard height adjustment via a gas mechanism and the ability to alternate the backrest recline between three levels via a lever on the right-hand side of your seated position. You can also easily reposition the bottom of the seat to increase or decrease its depth with a lever located on the other side.

The armrests can be raised by up to 5.5 inches / 14cm and can rotate a full 360 degrees. They’re a decent size and have a layer of soft foam at the top to make them a bit more comfortable on your elbows.

Raise the armrests as far as possible to enter what Asus calls “mobile gaming mode” - designed to keep your arms elevated so you can hold a phone in front of your face without strain. It feels a little weird at first, but it does a surprisingly good job of improving mobile play if you’re at your desk.

Underneath the backrest is a basic lumbar support mechanism which can be raised and lowered freely, clicking into place. You can also tweak its depth slightly by twisting the two rotating dials on the back.

The final points of adjustment are in the headrest, which can be raised or lowered in a range of 4.7 inches / 12cm or moved forward and backwards to ensure that it’s snugly against the back of your head. I’m quite tall and can struggle with headrests built into gaming chairs, but the range of adjustment here made it easy to get it into the perfect spot.

Add in the breathability of the mesh material, and you have a chair that remains comfortable even over extended periods of use. I’ve sat in it for hours at a time and haven’t experienced any soreness or fatigue.

Assembly

• All necessary tools included
• Backrest is difficult to align
• I’d recommend having a friend help

Assembling the Asus ROG Destrier Core Gaming Chair is a bit of a chore as the components are quite heavy, which makes them difficult to maneuver on your own.

Due to the shape of the backrest, it’s hard to keep it in place when it needs to be screwed in - so I’d highly recommend making sure that you have a friend on hand to lend a hand.

The instructions are thankfully very clear, and all necessary tools are included in the box, so Asus gains some marks back there.

Should I buy the Asus ROG Destrier Core Gaming Chair?

Buy it if...

Don't buy it if...

Also consider...

If you’re not sold on the Asus ROG Destrier Core Gaming Chair, then these two alternatives are worth weighing up.

How I tested the Asus ROG Destrier Core Gaming Chair

• Tested for multiple months
• Sat in for hours at a time
• Compared to other gaming chairs

I tested the Asus ROG Destrier Core Gaming Chair over multiple months at the TechRadar Gaming office.

Throughout that time, I used the chair every time I was working from the office, sitting in it for multiple hours at a time. In addition to office work, I tested gaming products like the Nintendo Switch 2 from the seat and was careful to evaluate its mobile gaming mode.

I compared my experience to my hands-on testing of many other gaming chairs, including the likes of the Secretlab Titan Evo 2022 and my go-to at-home pick: the Herman Miller Sayl.

Read more about how we test

First reviewed September-December 2025.

Astro A20 X: Two-minute review

The Astro A20 X is basically a jazzed-up version of the Logitech G522 Lightspeed - but is that such a bad thing? That latter headset is, in my eyes, one of the best wireless gaming headsets of the year, and many of its strongest qualities have carried forward into the Astro A20 X.

You’re still getting fantastic, well-balanced sound that, despite lacking a bit of bass out of the box, can be easily tweaked to perfection in the strong Logitech G Hub companion software. On PC, there’s support for DTS Headphone:X too, which delivers immersive spatial audio that’s perfect for immersive story titles like Senua's Saga: Hellblade 2.