nkpstudios's stats
- Review count215
- Helpfulness votes967
- First reviewJanuary 9, 2015
- Last reviewApril 29, 2024
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- Average rating4.3
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- Answer count49
- Helpfulness votes63
- First answerSeptember 12, 2016
- Last answerAugust 6, 2021
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Get ready to download more games to your gaming platform with up to 2TB of storage on M.2 2230 with the WD_BLACK SN770M Mobile NVMe SSD. Bring your whole game library anywhere, any place you go. Turbo charge and increase the storage in your ultrathin laptop with WD_BLACK SN770M Mobile NVMe SSD with PCIe Gen 4.0.
Customer Rating
5
MUST HAVE for RoG Ally and Handhelds SPEED 4 DAYS
on September 18, 2023
Posted by: nkpstudios
1st World Problem #1001 - Asus RoG Ally needs more space and no SD Card. Solution: 1st World Problem #1001 - WD_Black SN770M. The 2TB WD_Black SN770M is just what the doctor ordered for mobile handheld PC storage issues while resolving one of the main hindrances to adoption. Storage will no longer be the reason why you can't play your favorite game and isn't going to be your bottleneck. Now, there are a few choices in the m.2 2230 form factor and I have tested a few in my RoG Ally in various capacities. I settled on the 2TB as a sweetspot but it is still pricey. I will say this one benchmarks the highest of the 3 I've used. Review my screenshot of the speed test for more info.
Before beginning, I recommend you review a tutorial on how to upgrade the RoG Ally SSD. Gather a small Phillips screwdriver the Asus Ally factory charger, and find a clean, well-lit work area. Following review, execute backup/restore procedures to prepare your operating system for upgrade. Next, remove any attachments or SD cards connected to your Ally before opening. Then remove the screws from the backplate. Find and disconnect the battery cable connector from the board, lift the black plastic flap, and remove the SSD for replacement. Reassembly is the reverse of disassembly, but remember to connect your battery cable! Power on your device and get to BIOS. You need to hold the [VOL -] + [POWER] keys.
OH NO!!!! WAIT!!!!!! Did you break it? Why isn't it powering on with just any charger? It was charged full, but now it doesn't power up. IT IS NOT BROKEN - do not worry!!!! Remove any SD cards and plug your Ally into the wall using the included 65W charger with the device closed back up. Boot into the BIOS, go to the Advanced section, and find Asus Cloud Recovery. You can back up then restore your device or do a fresh install. In short, this is a really simple and snappy upgrade you will notice every time you use your device.
From the bootup times to the reboot times, loading screen times, and game load times, results are to be taken seriously only by those who need performance. In the gaming area, my RoG Ally was able to load and play games like Call of Duty MWII, Diablo IV, Red Ded Redemption, and Fortnite with no problems. If you own a RoG Ally, this is the fastest I have tested to date out of the 2TB tier. Whether a small PC or handheld, if it takes the 2230 form factor, the SN770M is my recommendation. I used other drives from other big brands but this drive benchmarks better and feels snappy as the competition. It's no secret the RoG Ally has issues with thermals and the SD card slot. The only way to make it playable is holding more than one AAA game is to upgrade the SSD. This is the answer.
I would like to see some sort of heatsink included for the RoG Ally as a kit since we all know with speed comes thermals. The RoG does an excellent job keeping this cool and I didn't notice much throttling under load. Otherwise, there is no complaint here, you get what you pay for!
I would recommend this to a friend!
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Introducing the Lucyd Voyager, the ultimate Bluetooth audio sunglasses for both men and women. These smart sunglasses feature a sleek and stylish design, with high-gloss acetate or titanium frames and featherlight internal components for optimal optical quality. The four speakers embedded in the temples provide lush, hi-fi open-ear music and calls, with a Quadrasonic sound that guarantees crisp and enjoyable sound. The touch controls on each temple of the glasses enable a selection of high-utility controls, including call answering, play/pause, track skip, volume adjustment, and voice assistant activation. Compatible with Alexa and Siri, you can make your voice command easily and make your life more convenient. These Bluetooth audio sunglasses also provide all-day battery life with up to 12 hours of playback per charge and over 160 hours of standby connection time. The typical user who listens to 1-2 hours of music daily will only need to charge the glasses once a week. Our sunglasses with Bluetooth come standard with high-quality, TAC-polarized UV400 sunglass lenses with a fashionable gradient finish, which can protect your eyes from harmful UV rays. Additionally, these smart audio glasses are rated IP-56 water resistant, so you can take them poolside or to other outdoor activities without any worries. The dual noise-canceling microphones improve call quality with enhanced clarity and ergonomics for longer-duration calls, and Bluetooth 5.2 technology allows for quick pairing and a 100-foot connectivity range. Upgrade your listening experience with the Lucyd Voyager Bluetooth audio sunglasses today.
Customer Rating
3
Aviators of the Future
on September 13, 2023
Posted by: nkpstudios
The Lucyd Lyte 2.0 has finally been released and can be summed up in one word… progress. There are some hardware improvements and a new gimmick ChatGPT, but new frames, lenses, and colors are the real reason for the Lyte 2.0. I am reviewing is the Voyager Aviators in all black with a gradient black tint. They have a nice look, but my main complaint is the arms are on the thicker side. These are my go-to glasses for evening walks and runs. They are great for those doing work outside. Everything is easy to use and setup after unboxing once you pair. Be sure to press both power buttons on the arms near your temples to hear in stereo.
These Aviators are lightweight and stylish while also being affordable, coming in at just under $150. Now, there are new options in the $150 sunglasses tier to choose between smart functionality and innovation or simple glasses you know and love. It is built almost entirely of a plastic blend that is both strong flexible and while also being flimsy. They fit reasonably well; however, I wish the arch had some sort of padding or customizable fit. These are one size fits all, so if they don’t fit around your ears like mine or you get extra pressure on your nose and face, there is nothing you can do.
What I love about these glasses is the incorporation of innovation without looking too much like conceptual eyewear. All the benefits of audio and hands-free Bluetooth for calls are welcomed in an alternative to always having earbuds in my ears. Audio is clear and loud for most situations; however, anything over 50% volume has a lot of spillage so everyone can hear. Don't be that annoying person trying to share your music through tiny speakers with the world around you.
During testing, I made it through one whole workweek on a single charge before recharging. I have about two hours of commute per day, so I would say that is pretty close to the 12 hours of battery life that is advertised. All callers could hear me clearly, and I didn't have any complaints. Audio is excellent for the size of the speakers and voices shine audibly. Everything from mids to highs is audible but not much bass due to its small size. Overall, I am happy with these but they serve a purpose and will not replace earbuds. All is well but I wish in the future they would tweak the shape of the arms and refine the buttons to work with just one side to turn on and off. The sharp pointy buttons need to be reexamined to further improve the overall user experience.
No, I would not recommend this to a friend.
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The powerful and compact Zenbook 14" OLED is just 0.66” slim and 3.48lbs light, with a breathtaking new design that’s timelessly elegant yet totally modern. Perfect visual experience from the 14.5” 16:10 2.8K OLED HDR NanoEdge, up to 550-nit screen which is PANTONE Validated with 100% DCI-P3 color gamut. The Intel EVO platform with 13th Gen Intel Core i7 Processor, Intel Iris Xe graphics, 16GB RAM and 512GB PCIe 4.0 SSD deliver superb performance, and there’s a long-lasting 90 Wh battery and latest Wifi-6E built-in. For extraordinary audio experience, there’s a Dolby Atmos sound system powered by a smart amplifier with Harman/Kardon certified.
Customer Rating
5
Powerful. Portable. Incredibly Versatile!
on June 23, 2023
Posted by: nkpstudios
Wow, Wow, WOW! O-L-E-D! The OLED display is the first thing we MUST discuss to start this review. The picture quality is simply AMAZING! For the first time on a laptop, I saw something I wish I could un-see because it ruined EVERYTHING! Now every LCD/LED panel in a screen I see needs to be better. It's like going to Philly and eating a Cheesesteak - it will never be the same again! Asus, you did an excellent job with this one! Since I unpacked this elegant machine, I have been enamored by so many aspects of this Zenbook. From its timeless modern design language to its execution, this offers a mindboggling multimedia theater-like experience in a portable package. This may be the perfect all-around Ultrabook for anyone on the go today.
Let's discuss model # Q420VA-EVO.I7512 from Asus, better known as the 14.5" Zenbook. This thing packs a 2.8K OLED with an Intel Evo i7-13700H 12-core processor. The 16GB LPDDR5RAM is clocked at 4800 MHz and has Intel Iris Xe Graphics. The zippy 512GB PCIe 4.0 SSD runs Windows 11 with ease from within a beautifully engineered gunmetal gray aluminum chassis. The long-lasting 70 Wh battery quickly gets you through a day at work or school on a single charge. If you need this longer than 12 hours, you may need a break, and you can always top it off. This value-packed Ultrabook is just 0.7" thin, weighs a measly 3.48 lbs, and offers a sweet balance of performance, build, and battery life. Watching any video on this panel combined with boomy Dolby Atmos speakers tuned sound that will bring joy to you. The 14.5" 16:10 OLED HDR NanoEdge 2880 x 1800 120Hz bright 550-nit touch display covers 100% of the DCI-P3 color gamut. The amazing response time of 0.2ms is TUV-certified w/ 70% blue-light reduction. Battery life was around 11 hours for me, but your mileage will vary depending on what you are doing and your screen brightness. The processor can push up to 45W, protected by ASUS IceCool technology, and the speakers take advantage of Dolby Atmos and an excellent amp for LOUD impactful sound from your laptop.
Connections are well placed, and you get all you need to include 2 - Thunderbolt 4 connections, 1 - USB-A 3.2 Gen2, 3.5 combos mic/headphone jack, and a full-size HDMI 2.1 port. WiFi6e and Bluetooth 5.2 round out the wireless connectivity, and an excellent FHD IR Camera supporting Windows Hello employs an RGB light sensor for more accuracy in low light and better pictures. Teleconferencing and video chats were exceptional, and I was seen and heard clearly; the keyboard mute key was a nice feature! The ergonomically designed backlit keyboard is nice to type on, and the built-in fingerprint sensor is snappy and accurate. Let me tell you about NumberPad 2.0! This was my biggest objection to getting smaller laptops. I NEED a number pad because I work on my PCs at any time, and it is a deal breaker not to have. THIS FIXES THAT!!!! The mouse pad converts into a numpad that is backlit by just tapping and holding the corner for 3 seconds!!
In short, this beautifully executed device has something for everyone and solves my problem of no number pad. Long battery and powerful performance are crucial to my work and personal life. The fact it is thin and light makes it a no-brainer. The screen is now my standard, and I will be OLED first when selecting future displays. The innovation makes it worth it to me, and you will not be second-guessing this one after you use it for yourself. Students, parents, telecommuters, and anyone who uses a desktop PC, this one is for you if you want a reliable workhorse for your everyday life.
Let's discuss model # Q420VA-EVO.I7512 from Asus, better known as the 14.5" Zenbook. This thing packs a 2.8K OLED with an Intel Evo i7-13700H 12-core processor. The 16GB LPDDR5RAM is clocked at 4800 MHz and has Intel Iris Xe Graphics. The zippy 512GB PCIe 4.0 SSD runs Windows 11 with ease from within a beautifully engineered gunmetal gray aluminum chassis. The long-lasting 70 Wh battery quickly gets you through a day at work or school on a single charge. If you need this longer than 12 hours, you may need a break, and you can always top it off. This value-packed Ultrabook is just 0.7" thin, weighs a measly 3.48 lbs, and offers a sweet balance of performance, build, and battery life. Watching any video on this panel combined with boomy Dolby Atmos speakers tuned sound that will bring joy to you. The 14.5" 16:10 OLED HDR NanoEdge 2880 x 1800 120Hz bright 550-nit touch display covers 100% of the DCI-P3 color gamut. The amazing response time of 0.2ms is TUV-certified w/ 70% blue-light reduction. Battery life was around 11 hours for me, but your mileage will vary depending on what you are doing and your screen brightness. The processor can push up to 45W, protected by ASUS IceCool technology, and the speakers take advantage of Dolby Atmos and an excellent amp for LOUD impactful sound from your laptop.
Connections are well placed, and you get all you need to include 2 - Thunderbolt 4 connections, 1 - USB-A 3.2 Gen2, 3.5 combos mic/headphone jack, and a full-size HDMI 2.1 port. WiFi6e and Bluetooth 5.2 round out the wireless connectivity, and an excellent FHD IR Camera supporting Windows Hello employs an RGB light sensor for more accuracy in low light and better pictures. Teleconferencing and video chats were exceptional, and I was seen and heard clearly; the keyboard mute key was a nice feature! The ergonomically designed backlit keyboard is nice to type on, and the built-in fingerprint sensor is snappy and accurate. Let me tell you about NumberPad 2.0! This was my biggest objection to getting smaller laptops. I NEED a number pad because I work on my PCs at any time, and it is a deal breaker not to have. THIS FIXES THAT!!!! The mouse pad converts into a numpad that is backlit by just tapping and holding the corner for 3 seconds!!
In short, this beautifully executed device has something for everyone and solves my problem of no number pad. Long battery and powerful performance are crucial to my work and personal life. The fact it is thin and light makes it a no-brainer. The screen is now my standard, and I will be OLED first when selecting future displays. The innovation makes it worth it to me, and you will not be second-guessing this one after you use it for yourself. Students, parents, telecommuters, and anyone who uses a desktop PC, this one is for you if you want a reliable workhorse for your everyday life.
I would recommend this to a friend!
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Officially licensed for the PlayStation5 console, the WD_BLACK SN850P NVMe SSD for PS5 consoles allows you to store more titles with worry free installation. Instantly add up to 4TB of storage to hold more of your favorite games. With an optimized heatsink built specifically for the PS5 M.2 slot, you won’t need to worry about compatibility. Experience uninterrupted gameplay as your WD_BLACK drive runs cool with quality you can trust. The WD_BLACK SN850P NVMe SSD for PS5 consoles is certified and tested for PlayStation 5 consoles so you can store more, play more, fast.
Customer Rating
5
BUY THIS NOW!! Just Do It, No Need To Thank Me.
on June 23, 2023
Posted by: nkpstudios
If you own a PS5, short and sweet, BUY THIS NOW! It's just that simple. This is the perfect candidate to add storage or upgrade your system. It is blazing fast! I could register a speed of 6138/MBs after initial installation! Since Western Digital partnered with Sony on an officially licensed M.2, this is one is my favorite. The heatsink looks cool, but it is hidden, so there's no natural way to appreciate the engineering after it fits perfectly into the PS5 bay.
Now let's get to work! We need to install this, so you will need a Phillips #1 screwdriver and your brain! That is easy, right? Anyone can do this upgrade so don't be afraid. You have the tools and ability so just slide off the white plate of the disc side on the PS5 to find where the M.2 bay resides. I recommend watching a tutorial on YouTube if you are unsure of this SUPER SIMPLE upgrade. After you get access to the rectangular bay, remove a single screw and aluminum door, plug in the SN850 drive, refasten the screw you removed to include the spacer, and you're done. Power on, let it format, and DONE. It's that easy!
The drive looks like official gear with a PS logo and WD Black branding printed on the black heatsink for maximum contrast. The SN850 fits perfectly into the bay, stay cool, and it performs! This drive makes the PS5 more powerful and expands your library storage WHILE boosting performance because of faster read and write speeds. This is a fun time to be testing and you should too.
I would recommend this to a friend!
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Play your way with the ROG Ally gaming handheld. Access any game that runs on Windows across all game platforms, including Steam, GOG, Xbox Game Pass, cloud gaming services, Android apps and more. Play anywhere, anytime, using handheld mode or by connecting the Ally to a TV and linking multiple controllers to play with friends. The Ally even transforms into a gaming PC by connecting to ROG XG mobile eGPU and dock - supporting mouse, keyboard, monitor, and more of your favorite peripherals. Equipped with an AMD Ryzen Z1 extreme processor, a smooth 7-inch 1080p 120Hz touchscreen with AMD FreeSync technology, and ROG intelligent cooling, the ROG Ally takes handheld gaming on to a whole different level.
Customer Rating
4
Amazing potential and time makes this better
on June 22, 2023
Posted by: nkpstudios
[TIPS & TRICKS]
**Deactivate the startup sound** This setting is hidden, and I hope they can create a tile for it in Command Center to toggle the boot-up sound. Press the power button, let it go when you see the splash screen, then hold [Vol -] until you reach the BIOS. Go to Advanced, select Animation Post Logo Configuration, then choose [Disabled] in the dropdown.
**Reorder Tiles in Command Center** Use a mouse to drag and drop the tiles where you want them. It will be much quicker than deleting all the tiles and replacing them in the desired order.
First, if you are a PC gamer, you will feel right at home using this device. You are already someone used to tweaking settings or figuring out why things don't go as they should, and your gaming library is spread across distributions other than Steam. As a handheld gaming PC, the RoG Ally RC71L truly outclasses all handheld consoles in every way. Be ready to deal with Windows quirks and challenges, but the potential and possibility are endless with the Ally. Things were pretty rocky at first, but I attribute that to Windows and the endless patches and updates needed for ALL laptop initializations. This will be the best form factor for PCs in the future as we travel lighter and want more mobility. Many of us have monitor or TV setups where we are most. Why carry a laptop unless you need the power for more intensive tasks? This with a dock is a user's dream and a low-key productivity beast!
What's in the box?
The unboxing experience is simple and straightforward, but it excites you as you peel the plastic and cut the seals. You will get a 65w charger, a "stand," and the RoG Ally handheld device, all neatly packed and presented in the box. The "stand" is pretty pathetic. It is made of recycled cardboard paper mâché, yet fakes a plastic-finished side on the top. Functionally it works, but durability is compromised. This is cost-cut #1; there should be plastic for a device in this price range, not paper. Most will buy an aftermarket dock, but Asus missed an opportunity here to provide value. The charger specs are TYPE-C, 65W AC Adapter, Output: 20V DC, 3.25A, 65W, Input: 100~240V AC 50/60Hz universal. The cord is quality, and the length is plenty; however, NO FOLDING PRONGS - come on! This is cost-cut #2 and inexcusable for a portable/travel device at this price. The cord doesn't separate from the base either, which makes this a rather not-so-portable travel companion. The Ally is built solid, and everything is where you expect it. The weight is surprisingly light compared to what I expected, tipping the scales at 608g or 1.34 lbs. The added security of a fingerprint sensor incorporated into the power button and Microsoft Pluton security processor help with peace of mind.
Hardware and Performance
The Ryzen Z1 Extreme chip with integrated AMD RDNA 3 GPU and soldered 16 GB DDR5 RAM is superb. The controller leaves much to be desired, but the buttons and analog sticks differ from my expected quality. The analogs have a dead zone you need to get used to. The 6-Axis IMU gyro for another gaming and function layer is nice. Play up to 1080p 120hz with VRR (Variable Refresh Rate) and enjoy more precise text, vivid colors, and picture quality unmatched visuals in a handheld. The installed Micron 512gb M.2 2230 PCIe Gen 4 NVME drive provides fast speeds of 4308/MBs write and 1638/MBs read in my benchmark. A UHS-II MicroSD card slot handles up to 2TB cards and is excellent for emulators, videos, photos, or other files you may need. Only a single USB 3.2 Gen 2 Type C port can DisplayPort 1.4 and DC Power input. I wish there were another port somewhere, but you can unlock a whole desktop experience with a dongle or dock. Bluetooth 5.2 and Wi-Fi 6E Triple Band 2x2 are all present and powered by a 40WHrs 4S1P 4-cell Li-ion battery. Battery life is not a strong suit here, but power banks and fast charging offset this. Depending on my work or game title, I get anywhere from 1.5 to 4 hours on a charge. If you're gaming and enjoying this in all its glory, plan on 1 hr 15 mins before you need a charge. My charge times were 0-56% in 30 mins and 0-100% in just under 83 mins.
Color and Display
The display is the differentiator here, and it isn't even close! This is a beautiful glossy 7" IPS LED 1080p 120hz capable panel with a responsive 10-point multi-touch screen by Gorilla® Glass Victus® with DXC Coating. The response time is 7ms, so it is decent but not exceptional, and there are a plethora of color profiles to dial in your specific look for your activity or game at hand. The screen is the show's star, and the 120hz makes this a joy to play on. It hits 500 nits for some sunlight but still could benefit from 1000 nits for direct sun. This screen is quite bright at the low end, so if you game at night near your significate other, they will complain. This lights my bedroom on the lowest setting! Running this at 720p 60hz offers an excellent compromise closer to other console handhelds to extend the Rog Ally's battery life. It boasts 100% of sRGB and 75.35% Adobe color space coverage.
Sound Quality and Speakers
Asus REALLY killed it in the sound department. They included a Dolby Atmos license, so you get excellent booming simulated surround sound from these front-firing speakers; no sound is wasted, and everything is directed towards the player for clear and powerful sound. The sound is loud and clear and quite shocking to me for a handheld. There is also bass in the low-end and clean highs with detail in the mid-range. Did I mention this? Get LOUD! At 100%, you will think you have a full-sized laptop with high-end speakers and clean amps - which you do.
Software and User Interface/Experience
Windows bloatware, NAMELY Microsoft OneDrive, kills this gamer vibe, but we are all used to it with Windows 11 integrations like OneDrive. Armory Crate is the saving grace when functioning as the skin to make Windows more cohesive. Although there is no amount of skinning that will make Windows run right, this helps, and the Command Center button and Armory Crate buttons make things easier. Change resolutions, frame rates, color profiles, performance, and power levels with tiles you preset to your liking. DRM games are useless here without the internet, so keep that in mind. Most games need the internet to verify ownership, so connectivity is a big part of the gaming experience. As a result, consider GoG or other digital distribution for offline times. The Ally is a BEAST for emulation, so if you can set that up, you will have the best battery life and fun without restriction due to the internet. With all the potential, we are definitely at the early adopter stage of patches and fixes. If you like to feel progress, tinker, and test while you figure things out, this is for you! If you're in the entry-level budget gaming PC market, start here first.
Recommendations
-add a webcam and camera for streamers and those needing to scan QR codes for logins and website authentication—meetings and streaming in one device - wow.
-backlight all the keys and buttons along with the sticks for a better experience at night. When playing in the dark, you must memorize buttons and guess at the beginning.
-I suggest making a unit in the future with swappable batteries like many headsets are incorporating now.
-dark colorway would be nice.
-power brick w/ folding prongs and detachable cable. This is meant to be portable.
-add a screen protector preinstalled as an added value for spending over $700 on this.
Intermittently Issues
-SD card speed inconsistencies. Speeds are all over the place, and performance is handicapped at a fraction of the overall speed rating. This has improved since launch, but I would like advertised speeds, please! Again, this is driver related and still comes up now and then.
-Crackling sounds while playing. This happens more and more infrequently, but it still happens. I don't know why it does or what I can do to replicate it, but it is software-related. I don't know if it is Dolby Atmos-related, but that is active when playing my games.
-Battery life. Keep your cord with you because you will need it. Battery life varies based on what you are playing and the speeds, so keep that in mind.
-Sleep/Hibernation states. Any time this goes into sleep or hibernation, it acts
Differentiators
Fast Charging. 0-100% in under 1.5 hrs. 0-50% in around .5 hrs.
Emulation. This is the ultimate gaming machine with emulation to counter those times without the internet. This is a perfect hybrid setup joining retro with next-gen gaming.
Compatibility. Windows natively supports all your games and is platform agnostic. If the specs can handle it, you can play it.
Cooling. The Ally is the quietest, coolest experience. The airflow reminds me of jet exhaust, yet you only hear fans at work once you push into Turbo 25w+.
Adaptability. This is for work AND play. There is profound power here, so try making this a desktop replacement and see how it goes.
The RoG Ally can serve many people, from gamers to students and professionals to content creation. The Asus RoG Ally RC71L is a glimpse into the future of PC gaming - and quite possibly the King of performance right now! I see this being the new "laptop" for students since this is a full-fledged PC you can set up as a desktop with a docking station to create the traditional desktop. Under the hood, this is spec'd to perfection and designed with cooling at the core. I won't bore you with specs, but there is a ton of power and performance. Once Windows 11 releases optimizations for handheld PCs, firmware and driver updates evolve, and Armory Crate SE gets final polish, this will easily be the best out and the most powerful handheld. Most definitely, you will want to look here first if you want to game on a mobile platform. A solid buy from me if you can handle early adoption woes.
**Deactivate the startup sound** This setting is hidden, and I hope they can create a tile for it in Command Center to toggle the boot-up sound. Press the power button, let it go when you see the splash screen, then hold [Vol -] until you reach the BIOS. Go to Advanced, select Animation Post Logo Configuration, then choose [Disabled] in the dropdown.
**Reorder Tiles in Command Center** Use a mouse to drag and drop the tiles where you want them. It will be much quicker than deleting all the tiles and replacing them in the desired order.
First, if you are a PC gamer, you will feel right at home using this device. You are already someone used to tweaking settings or figuring out why things don't go as they should, and your gaming library is spread across distributions other than Steam. As a handheld gaming PC, the RoG Ally RC71L truly outclasses all handheld consoles in every way. Be ready to deal with Windows quirks and challenges, but the potential and possibility are endless with the Ally. Things were pretty rocky at first, but I attribute that to Windows and the endless patches and updates needed for ALL laptop initializations. This will be the best form factor for PCs in the future as we travel lighter and want more mobility. Many of us have monitor or TV setups where we are most. Why carry a laptop unless you need the power for more intensive tasks? This with a dock is a user's dream and a low-key productivity beast!
What's in the box?
The unboxing experience is simple and straightforward, but it excites you as you peel the plastic and cut the seals. You will get a 65w charger, a "stand," and the RoG Ally handheld device, all neatly packed and presented in the box. The "stand" is pretty pathetic. It is made of recycled cardboard paper mâché, yet fakes a plastic-finished side on the top. Functionally it works, but durability is compromised. This is cost-cut #1; there should be plastic for a device in this price range, not paper. Most will buy an aftermarket dock, but Asus missed an opportunity here to provide value. The charger specs are TYPE-C, 65W AC Adapter, Output: 20V DC, 3.25A, 65W, Input: 100~240V AC 50/60Hz universal. The cord is quality, and the length is plenty; however, NO FOLDING PRONGS - come on! This is cost-cut #2 and inexcusable for a portable/travel device at this price. The cord doesn't separate from the base either, which makes this a rather not-so-portable travel companion. The Ally is built solid, and everything is where you expect it. The weight is surprisingly light compared to what I expected, tipping the scales at 608g or 1.34 lbs. The added security of a fingerprint sensor incorporated into the power button and Microsoft Pluton security processor help with peace of mind.
Hardware and Performance
The Ryzen Z1 Extreme chip with integrated AMD RDNA 3 GPU and soldered 16 GB DDR5 RAM is superb. The controller leaves much to be desired, but the buttons and analog sticks differ from my expected quality. The analogs have a dead zone you need to get used to. The 6-Axis IMU gyro for another gaming and function layer is nice. Play up to 1080p 120hz with VRR (Variable Refresh Rate) and enjoy more precise text, vivid colors, and picture quality unmatched visuals in a handheld. The installed Micron 512gb M.2 2230 PCIe Gen 4 NVME drive provides fast speeds of 4308/MBs write and 1638/MBs read in my benchmark. A UHS-II MicroSD card slot handles up to 2TB cards and is excellent for emulators, videos, photos, or other files you may need. Only a single USB 3.2 Gen 2 Type C port can DisplayPort 1.4 and DC Power input. I wish there were another port somewhere, but you can unlock a whole desktop experience with a dongle or dock. Bluetooth 5.2 and Wi-Fi 6E Triple Band 2x2 are all present and powered by a 40WHrs 4S1P 4-cell Li-ion battery. Battery life is not a strong suit here, but power banks and fast charging offset this. Depending on my work or game title, I get anywhere from 1.5 to 4 hours on a charge. If you're gaming and enjoying this in all its glory, plan on 1 hr 15 mins before you need a charge. My charge times were 0-56% in 30 mins and 0-100% in just under 83 mins.
Color and Display
The display is the differentiator here, and it isn't even close! This is a beautiful glossy 7" IPS LED 1080p 120hz capable panel with a responsive 10-point multi-touch screen by Gorilla® Glass Victus® with DXC Coating. The response time is 7ms, so it is decent but not exceptional, and there are a plethora of color profiles to dial in your specific look for your activity or game at hand. The screen is the show's star, and the 120hz makes this a joy to play on. It hits 500 nits for some sunlight but still could benefit from 1000 nits for direct sun. This screen is quite bright at the low end, so if you game at night near your significate other, they will complain. This lights my bedroom on the lowest setting! Running this at 720p 60hz offers an excellent compromise closer to other console handhelds to extend the Rog Ally's battery life. It boasts 100% of sRGB and 75.35% Adobe color space coverage.
Sound Quality and Speakers
Asus REALLY killed it in the sound department. They included a Dolby Atmos license, so you get excellent booming simulated surround sound from these front-firing speakers; no sound is wasted, and everything is directed towards the player for clear and powerful sound. The sound is loud and clear and quite shocking to me for a handheld. There is also bass in the low-end and clean highs with detail in the mid-range. Did I mention this? Get LOUD! At 100%, you will think you have a full-sized laptop with high-end speakers and clean amps - which you do.
Software and User Interface/Experience
Windows bloatware, NAMELY Microsoft OneDrive, kills this gamer vibe, but we are all used to it with Windows 11 integrations like OneDrive. Armory Crate is the saving grace when functioning as the skin to make Windows more cohesive. Although there is no amount of skinning that will make Windows run right, this helps, and the Command Center button and Armory Crate buttons make things easier. Change resolutions, frame rates, color profiles, performance, and power levels with tiles you preset to your liking. DRM games are useless here without the internet, so keep that in mind. Most games need the internet to verify ownership, so connectivity is a big part of the gaming experience. As a result, consider GoG or other digital distribution for offline times. The Ally is a BEAST for emulation, so if you can set that up, you will have the best battery life and fun without restriction due to the internet. With all the potential, we are definitely at the early adopter stage of patches and fixes. If you like to feel progress, tinker, and test while you figure things out, this is for you! If you're in the entry-level budget gaming PC market, start here first.
Recommendations
-add a webcam and camera for streamers and those needing to scan QR codes for logins and website authentication—meetings and streaming in one device - wow.
-backlight all the keys and buttons along with the sticks for a better experience at night. When playing in the dark, you must memorize buttons and guess at the beginning.
-I suggest making a unit in the future with swappable batteries like many headsets are incorporating now.
-dark colorway would be nice.
-power brick w/ folding prongs and detachable cable. This is meant to be portable.
-add a screen protector preinstalled as an added value for spending over $700 on this.
Intermittently Issues
-SD card speed inconsistencies. Speeds are all over the place, and performance is handicapped at a fraction of the overall speed rating. This has improved since launch, but I would like advertised speeds, please! Again, this is driver related and still comes up now and then.
-Crackling sounds while playing. This happens more and more infrequently, but it still happens. I don't know why it does or what I can do to replicate it, but it is software-related. I don't know if it is Dolby Atmos-related, but that is active when playing my games.
-Battery life. Keep your cord with you because you will need it. Battery life varies based on what you are playing and the speeds, so keep that in mind.
-Sleep/Hibernation states. Any time this goes into sleep or hibernation, it acts
Differentiators
Fast Charging. 0-100% in under 1.5 hrs. 0-50% in around .5 hrs.
Emulation. This is the ultimate gaming machine with emulation to counter those times without the internet. This is a perfect hybrid setup joining retro with next-gen gaming.
Compatibility. Windows natively supports all your games and is platform agnostic. If the specs can handle it, you can play it.
Cooling. The Ally is the quietest, coolest experience. The airflow reminds me of jet exhaust, yet you only hear fans at work once you push into Turbo 25w+.
Adaptability. This is for work AND play. There is profound power here, so try making this a desktop replacement and see how it goes.
The RoG Ally can serve many people, from gamers to students and professionals to content creation. The Asus RoG Ally RC71L is a glimpse into the future of PC gaming - and quite possibly the King of performance right now! I see this being the new "laptop" for students since this is a full-fledged PC you can set up as a desktop with a docking station to create the traditional desktop. Under the hood, this is spec'd to perfection and designed with cooling at the core. I won't bore you with specs, but there is a ton of power and performance. Once Windows 11 releases optimizations for handheld PCs, firmware and driver updates evolve, and Armory Crate SE gets final polish, this will easily be the best out and the most powerful handheld. Most definitely, you will want to look here first if you want to game on a mobile platform. A solid buy from me if you can handle early adoption woes.
I would recommend this to a friend!
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The REXING 120W Car charger quickly charges up to 3 devices simultaneously together via the USB-C Port. Our premium, ultra fast car charger can quickly charge phones, dash cams, tablets and laptops by efficiently converting the power from your cigarette port. The compact, thumb-sized, jet-black body perfectly blends with most car cigarette lighter ports. Your devices batteries are protected from over heating via Over-Voltage/Over-Current Protection features.
Customer Rating
5
Road Warriors/Road Trippers Starter Kit 1st Buy
on June 11, 2023
Posted by: nkpstudios
The Rexing 120W 3-port Vehicle Quick Charger's performance and value proposition blew me away. For under $50, you can choose USB-C 100W Power Delivery (PD) or 20W PD and a USB-A port that supports Quick Charge 3A down to 1.5A - all in one safe and simple device. You will get everything you need in the box for your road warrior starter kit, providing an excellent way for families to charge on long road trips quickly. Kids' tablets and phones get charged fast to keep them entertained and restore peace and quiet. Adults will enjoy the power of a laptop to get work done or game on a wall charger PC experience without requiring a 120V plug in their car. Rexing includes USB-C cable that supports PD so you can use it in any car or office scenario.
Take the charger from the box, plug it into your car, select the proper charging port, and connect your device. Oh, take a moment and notice the TOP QUALITY build too. The rubber sleeve is a nice touch to enhance grip and also protect against heat should it arise. This handles anything you need to charge as expected and does the job without overheating or issues. The charger stays put and doesn't move after insertion. However, the USB ports rock a little at the connections. I'm hopeful, but I hope this isn't my first indicator of things to come after much use. The biggest complaint I have here is the bright blue LED which is distracting at night and REALLY lights up your interior - this may be annoying to some or blend into your color scheme.
Aside from that, I cannot complain here. It works excellently, build quality and performance are all in one package, and most importantly, the price is right. I REALLY had to find something here to nitpick since I don't believe anything is perfect, but this is as close to perfect as you can get for a road warrior. This is an easy recommendation for anyone who travels in a car for work or pleasure. You will never have any power problems again while out, and what the heck, a mobile office doesn't hurt if you need a laptop to get some juice.
Take the charger from the box, plug it into your car, select the proper charging port, and connect your device. Oh, take a moment and notice the TOP QUALITY build too. The rubber sleeve is a nice touch to enhance grip and also protect against heat should it arise. This handles anything you need to charge as expected and does the job without overheating or issues. The charger stays put and doesn't move after insertion. However, the USB ports rock a little at the connections. I'm hopeful, but I hope this isn't my first indicator of things to come after much use. The biggest complaint I have here is the bright blue LED which is distracting at night and REALLY lights up your interior - this may be annoying to some or blend into your color scheme.
Aside from that, I cannot complain here. It works excellently, build quality and performance are all in one package, and most importantly, the price is right. I REALLY had to find something here to nitpick since I don't believe anything is perfect, but this is as close to perfect as you can get for a road warrior. This is an easy recommendation for anyone who travels in a car for work or pleasure. You will never have any power problems again while out, and what the heck, a mobile office doesn't hurt if you need a laptop to get some juice.
I would recommend this to a friend!
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Design meets function with the Bespoke Jet Cordless Stick Vacuum. Innovative design combines a Clean Station, charging stand and powerful Jet Stick into one show-stopping vacuum. Available in contemporary colors and premium finishes to beautifully fit your décor and lifestyle. Built-in Clean Station lets you empty the dustbin at the press of a button while also charging your vacuum. The Bespoke Jet is a powerful Jet Stick, so you can tackle any mess across multiple floor types such as carpets, hardwood floors and tile. The Bespoke Jet is engineered around a lightweight, maneuverable design, plus a multistage filtration system that maintains cleaner air in your home.
Customer Rating
4
Elegant Vacuum with Potential
on May 25, 2023
Posted by: nkpstudios
The Bespoke Jet is an elegantly designed cordless stick vacuum from Samsung for those who want a bold look and a functional charging base. It excels at cleaning all types of floors and carpet heights with the dual brush floor attachment and gives Dyson a run for its money. I admire the hybrid contemporary modern design language meshing form with function in an aesthetically pleasing way. The white and gold color scheme fits into my modern kitchen since the vacuum/base isn't an eyesore; I don't need to hide it in a closet anymore, and it doesn't need to be near a trash can for emptying. Construction is solid but made of much plastic, which is typical nowadays. This is evolving nicely but still needs more refinement to the design. Function and performance are all highlighted below.
The vacuum comes well-packaged and essentially pre-assembled, making this easy to set up and use. In the box, you will receive the vacuum, the base with two attachments, the wand with a dual brush floor attachment, seven base vacuum bags, and a single battery. Remove the base, vacuum, and attachments, plug it in, peel stickers and tape, charge, and you are all set. When resting on the base station, the vacuum charges when aligned on charge pins. The canister can clear itself on the base with a button press, clearing itself into a vacuum bag below. The exhaust system goes through a five-stage HEPA filtration, further reducing dust and allergens expelled. Everything works perfectly and powerfully as it should, but we will dive deeper into some quality-of-life annoyances I ran across.
The vacuum comes well-packaged and essentially pre-assembled, making this easy to set up and use. In the box, you will receive the vacuum, the base with two attachments, the wand with a dual brush floor attachment, seven base vacuum bags, and a single battery. Remove the base, vacuum, and attachments, plug it in, peel stickers and tape, charge, and you are all set. When resting on the base station, the vacuum charges when aligned on charge pins. The canister can clear itself on the base with a button press, clearing itself into a vacuum bag below. The exhaust system goes through a five-stage HEPA filtration, further reducing dust and allergens expelled. Everything works perfectly and powerfully as it should, but we will dive deeper into some quality-of-life annoyances I ran across.
My main complaint with the design is the round base and how it is top-heavy, leading it to be bumped into and falling over. This did NOT happen, but I can see it happening if you have toddlers who like running around and climbing on things. Ensure they avoid this as it could fall on them, and who knows what would happen to the all-plastic build. The overall design is excellent, but fashion was chosen over form with this design. The canister is WAAAAY smaller than most, so you must empty it more frequently with its .2 gal capacity. I am particularly NOT fond of how you dock this to charge and empty it. Hanging from the back of the base instead of the front of the machine when charging isn't intuitive and feels backward. The design was forced due to the canister placement for self-empty capability. Eventually, I will get used to this, but it is just weird to hang for charging. Another design flaw is the canister door stays open after emptying. Other AIO base stations I own automatically close the door after emptying and are always ready. There is also no ability to charge an extra battery, so you will be limited to charging when not in use. You can dock with all included attachments connected EXCEPT the combo tool, which you must remove to charge the vacuum, which is a HUGE FAIL.
There is no place to hang or clip the two base attachments onto either the base or the floor tool, which is annoying when you need to switch. I have other vacuums with all-in-one base stations with storage inside, so you do not have to see them or buy an additional accessory caddy. At this price point, I expect not to have to pay for a place to put two attachments. Another solution could be a snap-on holder that goes onto the telescoping rod. There is an LED I find annoying and cheapens the look. In my opinion, the LED isn't necessary with the inclusion of the OLED to relay exact battery life, and there is no way to turn off the amber or green lights!
There is no place to hang or clip the two base attachments onto either the base or the floor tool, which is annoying when you need to switch. I have other vacuums with all-in-one base stations with storage inside, so you do not have to see them or buy an additional accessory caddy. At this price point, I expect not to have to pay for a place to put two attachments. Another solution could be a snap-on holder that goes onto the telescoping rod. There is an LED I find annoying and cheapens the look. In my opinion, the LED isn't necessary with the inclusion of the OLED to relay exact battery life, and there is no way to turn off the amber or green lights!
Finally, Samsung is all about IoT. I expect connectivity with Samsung Smart Things - ESPECIALLY for this price! An opportunity to add value to offset negatives was missed here. It would be nice to see the battery level from my phone. Receive alerts to say the vacuum is not on the charger, maybe? What about creating a routine that empties the canister at a set time so you do not have to press Start/Stop button to empty? For nerds, include statistics on the battery run time and usage for the lifetime and since the last charge. There could also be filter changes or wash reminders in-app. Even incorporate links to buy bag replacements for the base directly from your phone! So much could have been done in Samsungs already established ecosystem to set them apart but wholly overlooked.
The Bespoke Jet performance is comparable to the industry leader and creator of the cordless vacuum, so you aren't getting a secondhand motor or suction performance. It easily cleans hardwood to tile and carpets of all shag heights. It does everything you need, but there is still much room for refinement. Battery life and performance were non-issues until "Jet" mode was enabled for short bursts of high suction. I vacuum my 3-level home on the default "MID" setting with 5 minutes to spare using the floor attachment. I quickly get through vacuuming in less than 25mins, and since this vacuum is always charged, you will always have a fresh battery as long as the base is plugged in. However, if the battery runs out, you must wait for a recharge. I loved this vacuum in the truck and van for an excellent detailing vacuum to touch up in between detailing. It easily cleans in tight areas, and I like the crevice and combo tools for auto interior cleaning.
The Bespoke Jet performance is comparable to the industry leader and creator of the cordless vacuum, so you aren't getting a secondhand motor or suction performance. It easily cleans hardwood to tile and carpets of all shag heights. It does everything you need, but there is still much room for refinement. Battery life and performance were non-issues until "Jet" mode was enabled for short bursts of high suction. I vacuum my 3-level home on the default "MID" setting with 5 minutes to spare using the floor attachment. I quickly get through vacuuming in less than 25mins, and since this vacuum is always charged, you will always have a fresh battery as long as the base is plugged in. However, if the battery runs out, you must wait for a recharge. I loved this vacuum in the truck and van for an excellent detailing vacuum to touch up in between detailing. It easily cleans in tight areas, and I like the crevice and combo tools for auto interior cleaning.
Can I recommend this? No, since there are others better for the money, and there isn't enough value to justify this price. I would buy this only if it was on sale and not pay full price as there is more out there for your money.
No, I would not recommend this to a friend.
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High Performance Computer and Electronics UPS for Premium Power Protection
Customer Rating
5
Must Have for Equipment Protection @ Home/Business
on May 3, 2023
Posted by: nkpstudios
The APC Back-UPS Pro BN1050M comes well-packed and shipped right to my door in a Schneider Electric box. I unpacked it, opened the battery door, connected the red wire to the battery, replaced the battery door, plugged everything in, pressed power, and it's charging! The setup is pretty straightforward, and you know you have quality because the Quality Assurance Test results are taped to your UPS unit. Thanks, "T," for testing my unit! Everything works great and does what you said. Instructions are not required as everything is shown on the sticker for simplicity.
The UPS is fairly small, so it doesn't seem obnoxiously big like others I have seen and have in my home. With 8 outlets, you have plenty of plugs for protection. It easily fits under my desk and is able to handle my router, modem, PC, printer, TV, and PS5 with no problems. The BN1050M is rated at 1050VA/600W with auto voltage regulation and the ability to tap a lead acid battery when necessary for larger draws or brownouts. Your battery life will be determined by how much you have plugged in and the draw during the blackout. The box says 3.5 hours, but if you are running more than just a PC, you will get less battery life. The recharge time is 12hrs and must be between 32°F to 104°F (0-40°C) during operation. It weighs close to 16 lbs, so plan to pick up the box with conviction if you're used to lightweight Amazon packages. This does what it should, and APC is always my trusted UPS choice for my devices.
I would recommend this to a friend!
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All hail the new king. The Turtle Beach Stealth Pro Multiplatform Wireless Gaming Headset brings the best premium features to your gaming multiverse for PlayStation, Windows PCs, Mac, Nintendo Switch and mobile. Featuring the most versatile noise cancelling system ever in a gaming headset, with the ability to control noise-cancelling levels from anywhere. Experience ultimate audio immersion with powerful, hand-selected 50mm Nanoclear drivers for a vast soundstage; and the TruSpeak noise-cancelling boom mic or dual built-in microphones offer ultra-clear comms. Our softest memory foam ear cushions enhance noise isolation and provide all-day comfort, and the Stealth Pro is built to last with a durable steel-reinforced headband and frame.
Customer Rating
5
Comfort, Versatility, & Audio Performance Unified!
on April 26, 2023
Posted by: nkpstudios
Comfort, Versatile, Premium, Powerful, Features. These are the first words that come to mind after spending about a week with these Turtle Beach Stealth Pro A.N.C. Wireless Gaming headphones. The Stealth Pros could be the NEW measuring stick for serious gamers! I love Turtle Beach's complete redesign with a minimalistic approach that doesn't scream gamer yet has premium all over it. There are no flashing lights or bright colors to detract from the muted colorway - I can't wait to see the v2s! This is almost perfect for any gamer on any platform, INCLUDING mobile! We are missing a 3.5mm jack, but with simultaneous dual connectivity using 2.4GHz R.F. and Bluetooth 5.1 technology, you can game and take calls if the time arises! There are features galore, and this is a solid all-around performer for anyone looking into a top-shelf option.
Setup and Ease of Use
The setup is pretty straightforward. Plug and play, flip a switch if you want to play P.C. vs. PS4/5, put your battery to charge, and you're ready to go! Pair it with your phone or favorite Bluetooth audio source, and you can field calls and listen to music while gaming! Unfortunately, this model only supports PS5/PS4 and P.C. - the main difference is the blue light vs green light. I recommend the Xbox version because it is compatible with all platforms - IF you can ignore the ugly green light! The app is easy to use, and everything is also laid out simply in the app. App Hub adjustments save to the headset directly, so you don't need to run software to keep things loaded. Settings are saved per use case scenario with P.C., Bluetooth, or Console having unique profiles loaded onto the headphones. The app needs L.E.D. base controls, but otherwise, it is perfect. The light is annoying because it is always on, so hopefully, this can be updated in the app, and the hardware is already in place. There should only be one model here, and create a base that can change color based on the connected device/gaming console. An RGB base with all colors would be excellent for this price since there aren't any gamer touches on the headphones.
Comfort and Build
The build is solid and on the bigger side. These headphones have a wide profile because of the large earcups and band construction, which work equally well for eyeglass wearers. The metal headband is wrapped in a luxurious memory foam leatherette and deep pillow earcups. These can make you extra warm, especially for most living in warmer climates, so keep a fan nearby or pump that A.C. to stop the sweat! These are so nice; I would like other ear cup options, like a cloth set to be included and maybe a hard case. The ear cups are attached better with a clip system rather than the game of threading the needle on past cups, so that is an upgrade. I am not a fan of the feel of the wheel. It feels super cheap, doesn't rotate easily, and mine has a bit of play-up and down that feels loose. The buttons are VERY stiff. After trying to find them, when pressing the buttons, you often cause crinkling noises in the speakers because of the seal the ear cups make and the pressure needed to activate the buttons. They could be more tactile and are initially hard to find. Eventually, you will learn to start bottom dead center to look for the middle button, then get to the others. The Super Hearing button is not remappable, which is a shame because it is the easiest to find due to the raised texture on the button.
Sound and Battery Performance
The sound department is REALLY where the Stealth Pro shines! The overall size and weight can produce a theater-like soundstage using the 50mm Nanoclear™ Drivers with Neodymium magnets can reproduce a frequency range of 10Hz - 22kHz with ease and clarity. As Bluetooth headphones connected to my phone, these performed well but only supports SBC, leaving great speakers underperforming with a basic audio codec. Sound reproduction is superb and way better than I could ever expect from this headphone. After enjoying 3D Audio on PS5, I know what these can do, and I found myself lost in hours of God of War Ragnarök gameplay, just enjoying the subtle sounds and nuances in Sony 3D Audio. I turn off my PS5 and then end up walking around listening to music and cleaning up because they are just that good! Noise Cancelling works well, and when turned on, it helps the drivers level out the soundstage when A.N.C. is active. The bass is boomy, and the treble is clean and pronounced. You can E.Q. these to your liking on both the mic and audio! They are responsive and shine most when using Windows Sonic, Sony 3D Audio for PS5™, Dolby Atmos, & D.T.S. Headphone: X codecs. These just blow my mind on PS5! I can attest to battery life rated at a verifiable 12+ hours with A.N.C. on, Console connected, and Bluetooth all enabled - nothing to worry about here! With the magnetic battery cover, swapping from the base station is quick and easy, with minimal downtime and automatic reconnections to get you back in less than 10 seconds.
Connectivity and Customizations
The Stealth Pros are a gamer's dream! Hang out in a gaming multiverse where PlayStation®, Windows PCs, Mac®, Nintendo Switch™, and mobile are all served by one headphone! Make that call for dinner while in the game, and this manages volume seamlessly. No connectivity issues or call drops; however, call quality is ok, and noise-canceling mics aren't the greatest at eliminating background noises. You can tweak everything in-app for the ultimate customizations to remap buttons and create presets. Everything can be changed in-app while playing, so you can adjust on the fly. Every once in a while, I would get a loading screen on the app. I closed the app and relaunched it to fix this. I want more personalization with magnetic battery doors, other boom mics w/ better noise canceling, and customizable ear cup choices.
My Thoughts
-Please update software for L.E.D. base light adjustments can be made to brightness and status notifications.
-Consider changing the buttons on future renditions. I would like to see better buttons that are not so rubbery and stiff.
-Consider adding a 3.5mm jack for other functionality streamers and game chat users will love.
-Come up with a way to mix game chat separately.
-S.M.A.R.T. Noise-Cancelling Boom & Concealed Microphones need work with blocking out background noise.
-A set of cloth earcups to go with the leatherettes for those who are hotheads or live in hot climates.
-Consider a change to the knob/wheel. It is the weakest part of an otherwise perfect pair of headphones.
-Add HiFi Codecs like aptX, aptXhd, and L.D.A.C. to take advantage of these drivers.
-
Overall
In summation, these are excellent and should be considered by all shopping in this range. Performance, connectivity, stability, and soundstage are all high points that need to be mentioned. Right now, these are my top choice. Others have better battery life, but with a swappable battery, I don't worry. No 3.5mm headphone jack and lack of HiFi codecs are my biggest gripes, but that is because I seek perfection at this price. With sound and mic performance, this is a winner, and even, I dare say, the Apex Predator of the gaming headphone world and do-it-all status. You get great sounding pair of A.N.C. Bluetooth headphones you can take out of the house or use solely at home. Mobile gaming, music, and console/P.C. gamers are all served with this rendition. I can't wait for the next ones!
Setup and Ease of Use
The setup is pretty straightforward. Plug and play, flip a switch if you want to play P.C. vs. PS4/5, put your battery to charge, and you're ready to go! Pair it with your phone or favorite Bluetooth audio source, and you can field calls and listen to music while gaming! Unfortunately, this model only supports PS5/PS4 and P.C. - the main difference is the blue light vs green light. I recommend the Xbox version because it is compatible with all platforms - IF you can ignore the ugly green light! The app is easy to use, and everything is also laid out simply in the app. App Hub adjustments save to the headset directly, so you don't need to run software to keep things loaded. Settings are saved per use case scenario with P.C., Bluetooth, or Console having unique profiles loaded onto the headphones. The app needs L.E.D. base controls, but otherwise, it is perfect. The light is annoying because it is always on, so hopefully, this can be updated in the app, and the hardware is already in place. There should only be one model here, and create a base that can change color based on the connected device/gaming console. An RGB base with all colors would be excellent for this price since there aren't any gamer touches on the headphones.
Comfort and Build
The build is solid and on the bigger side. These headphones have a wide profile because of the large earcups and band construction, which work equally well for eyeglass wearers. The metal headband is wrapped in a luxurious memory foam leatherette and deep pillow earcups. These can make you extra warm, especially for most living in warmer climates, so keep a fan nearby or pump that A.C. to stop the sweat! These are so nice; I would like other ear cup options, like a cloth set to be included and maybe a hard case. The ear cups are attached better with a clip system rather than the game of threading the needle on past cups, so that is an upgrade. I am not a fan of the feel of the wheel. It feels super cheap, doesn't rotate easily, and mine has a bit of play-up and down that feels loose. The buttons are VERY stiff. After trying to find them, when pressing the buttons, you often cause crinkling noises in the speakers because of the seal the ear cups make and the pressure needed to activate the buttons. They could be more tactile and are initially hard to find. Eventually, you will learn to start bottom dead center to look for the middle button, then get to the others. The Super Hearing button is not remappable, which is a shame because it is the easiest to find due to the raised texture on the button.
Sound and Battery Performance
The sound department is REALLY where the Stealth Pro shines! The overall size and weight can produce a theater-like soundstage using the 50mm Nanoclear™ Drivers with Neodymium magnets can reproduce a frequency range of 10Hz - 22kHz with ease and clarity. As Bluetooth headphones connected to my phone, these performed well but only supports SBC, leaving great speakers underperforming with a basic audio codec. Sound reproduction is superb and way better than I could ever expect from this headphone. After enjoying 3D Audio on PS5, I know what these can do, and I found myself lost in hours of God of War Ragnarök gameplay, just enjoying the subtle sounds and nuances in Sony 3D Audio. I turn off my PS5 and then end up walking around listening to music and cleaning up because they are just that good! Noise Cancelling works well, and when turned on, it helps the drivers level out the soundstage when A.N.C. is active. The bass is boomy, and the treble is clean and pronounced. You can E.Q. these to your liking on both the mic and audio! They are responsive and shine most when using Windows Sonic, Sony 3D Audio for PS5™, Dolby Atmos, & D.T.S. Headphone: X codecs. These just blow my mind on PS5! I can attest to battery life rated at a verifiable 12+ hours with A.N.C. on, Console connected, and Bluetooth all enabled - nothing to worry about here! With the magnetic battery cover, swapping from the base station is quick and easy, with minimal downtime and automatic reconnections to get you back in less than 10 seconds.
Connectivity and Customizations
The Stealth Pros are a gamer's dream! Hang out in a gaming multiverse where PlayStation®, Windows PCs, Mac®, Nintendo Switch™, and mobile are all served by one headphone! Make that call for dinner while in the game, and this manages volume seamlessly. No connectivity issues or call drops; however, call quality is ok, and noise-canceling mics aren't the greatest at eliminating background noises. You can tweak everything in-app for the ultimate customizations to remap buttons and create presets. Everything can be changed in-app while playing, so you can adjust on the fly. Every once in a while, I would get a loading screen on the app. I closed the app and relaunched it to fix this. I want more personalization with magnetic battery doors, other boom mics w/ better noise canceling, and customizable ear cup choices.
My Thoughts
-Please update software for L.E.D. base light adjustments can be made to brightness and status notifications.
-Consider changing the buttons on future renditions. I would like to see better buttons that are not so rubbery and stiff.
-Consider adding a 3.5mm jack for other functionality streamers and game chat users will love.
-Come up with a way to mix game chat separately.
-S.M.A.R.T. Noise-Cancelling Boom & Concealed Microphones need work with blocking out background noise.
-A set of cloth earcups to go with the leatherettes for those who are hotheads or live in hot climates.
-Consider a change to the knob/wheel. It is the weakest part of an otherwise perfect pair of headphones.
-Add HiFi Codecs like aptX, aptXhd, and L.D.A.C. to take advantage of these drivers.
-
Overall
In summation, these are excellent and should be considered by all shopping in this range. Performance, connectivity, stability, and soundstage are all high points that need to be mentioned. Right now, these are my top choice. Others have better battery life, but with a swappable battery, I don't worry. No 3.5mm headphone jack and lack of HiFi codecs are my biggest gripes, but that is because I seek perfection at this price. With sound and mic performance, this is a winner, and even, I dare say, the Apex Predator of the gaming headphone world and do-it-all status. You get great sounding pair of A.N.C. Bluetooth headphones you can take out of the house or use solely at home. Mobile gaming, music, and console/P.C. gamers are all served with this rendition. I can't wait for the next ones!
I would recommend this to a friend!
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Bowers and Wilkins Pi5 S2 True Wireless headphones deliver hi-resolution, crystal-clear audio quality for your movies, music, and phone calls. Featuring TWS+ with Qualcomm aptX adaptive technology, these earbuds ensure stable wireless connectivity whether you are streaming from your smartphone, tablet, or PC. Download the Bowers & Wilkins Music app (available for iOS and Android devices) to enjoy high-quality music streaming from Deezer, NTS Radio, Qobuz, SoundCloud, TIDAL, and TuneIn. The Pi5 S2 showcases improvements to its predecessor, Pi5, like the end-cap construction with a revised antenna design for extending its connectivity range to up to 25m whilst keeping the wireless connection stable. The Pi5 S2 headphones feature active noise cancellation that gets activated with a touch of a button, along with call-clarity enhancing microphones that pick up ambient noise and cancel it for clear call quality. The touch-sensitive button on the right earbud also allows you to enable voice assistance. Another stand-out feature of these headphones is the intuitive detection sensors that put the earphones on standby or reconnect them depending upon whether they are removed or put back on. The Pi5 S2 comes with a sturdy and attractive charging case with 16 hours of battery life for charging the earbuds when not in use. These earbuds add four to five hours of playback time with an increased battery life of 25 percent.
Customer Rating
3
Hardware Failed by Software
on March 28, 2023
Posted by: nkpstudios
The Bowers & Wilkins Pi5 S2 is a highly well-built IP54-rated and aesthetically pleasing pair of ANC in-ear earbuds. They support fast charging and are stored/charged in a case for wireless charging or USB-C. Sound codecs supported are aptX, SBC, and AAC via Bluetooth 5.0. The sound quality is just above average, with a small sound stage leaving much to be desired in the lows and mid ranges. Noise-canceling performance is just average, and battery life is subpar. The app could be better and takes away from the overall experience. ZERO personalization is offered for this price, not even a simple EQ to adjust—a feature in cheaper alternatives. No simultaneous multi-point connections, so forget about easy switching. You can only use these on one device at a time. Overall, better buds are out there for this price, so now we can get into the details.
Design and Build 4/5
The Bowers & Wilkins Pi5 S2 is an elegant-looking earbud set. The earbuds are built tough, and I have no question that these will last, and they are just beautiful. The bulky charging case is designed to be upside-down with USB charging on the bottom. Inside the case, magnets REALLY hold these buds in place. Here lies my first gripe about using these; however, I can appreciate it because other companies have weak magnets. If you drop the case, it doesn't explode like a grenade sending your buds all over the room, but it would help if you had vice-grip fingertips to pull these out!
The touch interface works well and registers fine, but that is the extent of it. You are stuck with how B&W designed these, so you can only change the ear tips and nothing more. The ear tips have foam inserts to help with isolation and keep earwax out of the sound chamber, BUT it does reduce the loudness. Much thought went into the physical design, but R & D needed to remember the user experience. Just a colossal oversight on execution and reminds me much of the Devialet Gemini launch. For some reason, hi-fi companies can't grasp UI for mobile phones and often leave excellent hardware to fail at the hands of a bad app.
User Experience and Connectivity 2/5
The user experience is terrible on iOS and Android, from the initial pairing to the touch interface to the app interface and experience. The sound connection and levels often seem like the software is "working" on sound. Sometimes the volume is louder in one bud; then, it would work after tapping it to start and stop the feed. I often had to put my buds back in the case to fix sound issues, especially after connecting a second device. There are no issues with latency, and videos sync perfectly.
The app is elementary and needs to be better thought out. "Options and features" are buried; for example, to activate pass-through to hear around you, you NEED to use the app! There is no way around it; you need to click three times while in the app just to turn it on. Once you open the app, you get a "widget" to activate only ANC. I use hear-through a lot, so needing this app to toggle it is a deal breaker. I need to turn this on and off with a touch of the bud. Another feature standard on other buds I have and use regularly. These are not going with me on a run or the gym, so it kills usage by making me go for others in my collection at this price range. Nothing useful can be found in the app and it is almost not needed. You can EQ in your music app maybe, but not with the B&W?
I hope someone will fix this with updates. The app needs an overhaul and someone to think things through from a user standpoint. You cannot see the battery levels per earbud, and NOTHING shows for the case unless you step up to the Pi7 S2 for $100 more. HUGE MISS HERE with customizations, B&W. You cannot control the volume without your phone, you cannot EQ in-app, and you cannot change what various taps do. Other buds I use have a one-touch volume hold, so the volume increases until you let go, and the other side decreases volume the same way. I HATE the tones it plays when modes change and when it connects. Piercing and loud is the description at 0430am connecting to Bluetooth. I recommend that the tone be lowered an octave to make it more pleasing.
Sound Quality and Battery Life 2/5
I expected an AMAZING sound from a prestigious company like Bowers & Wilkins. These buds offer codecs like aptX for higher-quality sound, but the speakers don't do it for me. Battery life is subpar and rated at 5hrs w/ ANC off and even worst with ANC on. I clocked 3.5ish hours with ANC on; then they turned off with yet another tune. The soundstage sounds puny compared to other buds in my collection at this price point, which could be better. There is no EQ to tune the sound to; you are stuck with hollow and weak lows and mids but nice highs. I am disappointed by the sound B&W produced with these in this price range. The sound quality between ANC on and off is night and day, with a white noise present when the buds are not playing anything. Turn on ANC, and the white noise is just higher pitched but lower in volume. The performance of these all the way around leaves a lot to be desired, and I cannot recommend these when the competition in this range is so fierce.
I am frustrated by the overall experience put forth by Bowers & Wilkins. A company of this caliber should pay more attention to the details, especially in this digital age of apps and software. No customizations to interface or sound hold this hardware back, with the app being the main reason for this product's troubles and user experience. Connectivity issues were present from setup and trickled over to everyday use. There may be firmware updates to come out and fix some things, but these buds are not ready for primetime under the Bowers & Wilkins brand. I wanted to love these, but they cannot compete with others in their current software state.
Design and Build 4/5
The Bowers & Wilkins Pi5 S2 is an elegant-looking earbud set. The earbuds are built tough, and I have no question that these will last, and they are just beautiful. The bulky charging case is designed to be upside-down with USB charging on the bottom. Inside the case, magnets REALLY hold these buds in place. Here lies my first gripe about using these; however, I can appreciate it because other companies have weak magnets. If you drop the case, it doesn't explode like a grenade sending your buds all over the room, but it would help if you had vice-grip fingertips to pull these out!
The touch interface works well and registers fine, but that is the extent of it. You are stuck with how B&W designed these, so you can only change the ear tips and nothing more. The ear tips have foam inserts to help with isolation and keep earwax out of the sound chamber, BUT it does reduce the loudness. Much thought went into the physical design, but R & D needed to remember the user experience. Just a colossal oversight on execution and reminds me much of the Devialet Gemini launch. For some reason, hi-fi companies can't grasp UI for mobile phones and often leave excellent hardware to fail at the hands of a bad app.
User Experience and Connectivity 2/5
The user experience is terrible on iOS and Android, from the initial pairing to the touch interface to the app interface and experience. The sound connection and levels often seem like the software is "working" on sound. Sometimes the volume is louder in one bud; then, it would work after tapping it to start and stop the feed. I often had to put my buds back in the case to fix sound issues, especially after connecting a second device. There are no issues with latency, and videos sync perfectly.
The app is elementary and needs to be better thought out. "Options and features" are buried; for example, to activate pass-through to hear around you, you NEED to use the app! There is no way around it; you need to click three times while in the app just to turn it on. Once you open the app, you get a "widget" to activate only ANC. I use hear-through a lot, so needing this app to toggle it is a deal breaker. I need to turn this on and off with a touch of the bud. Another feature standard on other buds I have and use regularly. These are not going with me on a run or the gym, so it kills usage by making me go for others in my collection at this price range. Nothing useful can be found in the app and it is almost not needed. You can EQ in your music app maybe, but not with the B&W?
I hope someone will fix this with updates. The app needs an overhaul and someone to think things through from a user standpoint. You cannot see the battery levels per earbud, and NOTHING shows for the case unless you step up to the Pi7 S2 for $100 more. HUGE MISS HERE with customizations, B&W. You cannot control the volume without your phone, you cannot EQ in-app, and you cannot change what various taps do. Other buds I use have a one-touch volume hold, so the volume increases until you let go, and the other side decreases volume the same way. I HATE the tones it plays when modes change and when it connects. Piercing and loud is the description at 0430am connecting to Bluetooth. I recommend that the tone be lowered an octave to make it more pleasing.
Sound Quality and Battery Life 2/5
I expected an AMAZING sound from a prestigious company like Bowers & Wilkins. These buds offer codecs like aptX for higher-quality sound, but the speakers don't do it for me. Battery life is subpar and rated at 5hrs w/ ANC off and even worst with ANC on. I clocked 3.5ish hours with ANC on; then they turned off with yet another tune. The soundstage sounds puny compared to other buds in my collection at this price point, which could be better. There is no EQ to tune the sound to; you are stuck with hollow and weak lows and mids but nice highs. I am disappointed by the sound B&W produced with these in this price range. The sound quality between ANC on and off is night and day, with a white noise present when the buds are not playing anything. Turn on ANC, and the white noise is just higher pitched but lower in volume. The performance of these all the way around leaves a lot to be desired, and I cannot recommend these when the competition in this range is so fierce.
I am frustrated by the overall experience put forth by Bowers & Wilkins. A company of this caliber should pay more attention to the details, especially in this digital age of apps and software. No customizations to interface or sound hold this hardware back, with the app being the main reason for this product's troubles and user experience. Connectivity issues were present from setup and trickled over to everyday use. There may be firmware updates to come out and fix some things, but these buds are not ready for primetime under the Bowers & Wilkins brand. I wanted to love these, but they cannot compete with others in their current software state.
No, I would not recommend this to a friend.
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