TechRadar Reviews

After spending several days exploring its features and capabilities, I've come away impressed with the value Workbooks CRM, a cloud-based platform aimed at midsize businesses, delivers. It is clear that Workbooks is one of the best CRM platforms on the market. This is a fully-integrated CRM solution, not just a collection of modules. It provides tools for sales, marketing, support, order management, and more in a unified interface.

What really sets Workbooks CRM apart is its hands-on approach to implementation and support. The vendor works closely with each customer to tailor the system to their unique needs and provides ongoing consulting to ensure they get the most from the platform.

While it may lack the vast third-party app marketplace you find on platforms such as Salesforce CRM, Workbooks more than makes up for it with attentive service and an extensive feature set at a very competitive price point.

At TechRadar Pro, we recognize that choosing a CRM is one of the most critical infrastructure decisions a business can make. Our experts don't just skim feature lists; we perform hands-on, multi-day testing to see how these platforms perform under pressure.

For our Workbooks review, we navigated the entire user journey - from initial setup and data migration to complex workflow automation and financial reporting. We evaluated its unique approach to see if it truly saves businesses money or simply adds administrative complexity

So, let's dive in and examine the platform in more detail.

Workbooks core capabilities

The Workbooks CRM dashboard is easy to navigate. (Image credit: Workbooks)

Workbooks CRM offers a centralized database for contact management and account administration. I can easily store and organize detailed information about my customers, including their contact details, communication history, and any relevant notes. The system automatically links contacts to their associated accounts, giving me a clear overview of the relationships between individuals and organizations.

It also makes it easy to log all my customer interactions, including emails, calls, meetings and notes. I especially appreciate the ability to restrict access to sensitive notes, ensuring that private information like contracts and agreements stays secure. The platform also excels at mapping relationships between people and organizations, allowing me to visualize my entire business ecosystem, including customers, partners, suppliers, and even competitors.

When it comes to sales, Workbooks offers a comprehensive set of tools for lead and opportunity management. I can capture leads directly from my website using customizable web-to-lead forms, then track the effectiveness of my marketing campaigns by integrating with Google SEO tools. Workbooks automatically routes new leads to the appropriate sales rep and provides a clear view of my entire sales pipeline. Built-in sales forecasting helps me predict revenue and track quotas.

On the customer service side, Workbooks streamlines case management with its ticketing system. When a customer submits an issue, Workbooks automatically creates a ticket, assigns it a reference number, and routes it to the correct team member based on rules I define. I can set priorities based on urgency and monitor SLA compliance to ensure my team is meeting its commitments to customers.

Workbooks comes with a wide array of pre-built reports covering sales activity, pipeline health, forecasting, and more. Dashboards are fully customizable, so I can put the KPIs that matter most to my business front and center. If you need a report that isn't available out of the box, you can easily create your own using Workbooks' reporting wizard. However, I have found the report-building process to be a bit less user-friendly than some other areas of the system.

For employees in the field, Workbooks CRM offers mobile-optimized versions of all its core features, so I'm never out of touch when I'm away from my desk. I can quickly pull up a contact's information, log a call, or update an opportunity from my smartphone. GPS integration allows me to easily log visits to customer sites, and I can even dictate notes via voice recognition. Workbooks CRM has clearly put a lot of thought into empowering users to enjoy maximum productivity wherever they are.

Finally, while Workbooks CRM covers all the essentials quite well, its extensibility is somewhat limited compared to larger players like Salesforce. It doesn't have the same vast ecosystem of pre-built connectors for third-party apps and integrations. This can be a challenge for data-driven enterprises that rely on multiple sources of business intelligence, but smaller organizations should find it suitable for meeting their needs.

How easy it Workbooks to use?

As someone who has used a variety of CRM platforms over the years, I found that Workbooks offers one of the smoothest user experiences in the market. The layout is clean and uncluttered, clearly inspired by the aesthetic flaunted by an earlier generation of Windows PCs. It’s gentle enough for new users to get up and running quickly, while still providing robust features for power users and administrators. I was able to start using basic functions with minimal training, thanks to the logical organization of menus and features.

The platform offers a high degree of flexibility to tailor the CRM to your specific business needs. I was able to easily modify field names, create custom workflows, and build personalized dashboards to track my key metrics. Workbooks also provides an extensive library of templates and configuration options, allowing me to set up the system to mirror my unique sales process.

In terms of onboarding and training, Workbooks offers a wealth of resources to help new users get acquainted with the platform. The company provides detailed documentation, video tutorials, and regular webinars to guide users through the various features and best practices. I found the step-by-step guides particularly helpful when I was first learning to navigate the system.

Workbooks also offers formal training courses, both online and in-person, for those who want a more structured learning experience. These courses cover everything from basic navigation to advanced administrator functions, and include hands-on exercises to reinforce learning. Every trainee receives a comprehensive manual that serves as a valuable reference guide long after the initial training.

Perhaps most impressive is the level of personalized support Workbooks CRM provides during the implementation process. The vendor assigns a dedicated success manager to work closely with each client, providing guidance on configuration, data migration, and user adoption strategies. This white-glove approach ensures a smooth rollout and helps organizations start realizing value from the CRM as quickly as possible.

Workbooks integrations

Out of the box, Workbooks offers pre-built integrations with several popular applications, such as Google Workspace (formerly G Suite), Microsoft 365, and Mailchimp. Setting up these integrations is a breeze, often requiring just a few clicks and minimal configuration. While the number of pre-built integrations available in Workbooks is nowhere near as vast as Salesforce or HubSpot CRM, it’s still enough to serve the needs of most small-to-medium-sized businesses.

For more specialized needs, Workbooks offers a robust API that allows developers to build custom integrations with other systems. The attached API documentation is comprehensive, with detailed descriptions of endpoints, request and response formats, and code samples. For those of us who need to use custom integrations but aren’t comfortable using the API, Workbooks also integrates with iPaaS vendors like Zapier for seamless no-code automation.

Workbooks also has a pretty unique approach to data synchronization. The platform uses a sophisticated conflict resolution system to ensure that data remains consistent across integrated systems. If a record is updated in multiple places, Workbooks CRM intelligently determines which changes should take precedence based on factors like timestamp and user permissions. This gives me confidence that data is always accurate and up-to-date.

In addition, the 2026 version of the Business Edition now features deeper, real-time sync with cloud accounting platforms like Xero and Sage Intacct, further reducing the gap between the sales quote and the final invoice.

CRM integrations can pile up over time, often leading to unnecessary sprawl. That’s why Workbooks CRM offers tools for monitoring and managing integrations using a single dashboard - so you don’t lose track. The Integration Hub allows administrators to view the status of all integrations, monitor sync logs, and troubleshoot issues. This can be incredibly useful for resolving sync errors or performance bottlenecks.

Overall, I've been quite satisfied with Workbooks' integration capabilities. While it may not have the largest ecosystem of third-party integrations, the platform more than makes up for it with its iPaaS integrations, API, and real-time data synchronization features. The integrations I've used so far have performed well, plus there’s always the option to build your own using iPaaS tools or the API.

How good is Workbooks customer support?

In 2024, I was invited to attend a Workbooks customer summit where I had the chance to talk with several businesses that use the Workbooks CRM platform. During this time, a key theme became clear - customers feel that Workbooks goes above and beyond when it comes to supporting them in getting the most from their CRM.

Owain Williams, Editor - CRM & Website Builders

Workbooks offers a comprehensive range of support channels to ensure that users can get help whenever and however they need it. The primary support channel is email, with a dedicated support email address that is monitored during regular business hours. I've found the email support to be highly responsive, with most of my inquiries receiving an initial response within an hour or two.

For more urgent issues, Workbooks also provides telephone support. The support team is available by phone during extended business hours, and I've always found them to be friendly, knowledgeable, and eager to help. On the rare occasions when I've encountered a technical issue with the platform, the support team has worked diligently to diagnose and resolve the problem in a timely manner.

In addition to the live support channels, Workbooks offers a wealth of self-service resources to help users find answers on their own. The online knowledge base is particularly impressive, with a vast library of articles, tutorials, and FAQs covering every aspect of the platform. The articles are well-written, thoroughly illustrated, and frequently updated to reflect the latest features and best practices.

Workbooks also maintains an active user community forum, where users can ask questions, share tips, and learn from each other's experiences. The forum is moderated by Workbooks staff, who often chime in with expert advice and guidance. I've found the community to be a valuable resource for discovering new ways to use the platform and connecting with other users in my industry.

Finally, beyond the usual support channels, every customer is also assigned a dedicated Customer Success Manager who serves as their primary point of contact and advocate within Workbooks. They take the time to understand each customer's unique needs and goals, working closely with them to ensure they are getting the most value from the platform. I really liked this white glove approach to customer service, which is often missing from other small business CRMs.

Workbooks pricing and plans

(Image credit: Workbooks)

Plan

CRM Edition

Business Edition

Events Edition

Price

$43/user/month

$88/user/month

$183/user/month

Best for

Small to medium businesses needing core CRM functionality

Organizations requiring advanced features including order management

Businesses running large scale events

Features

Contact management; Sales pipeline tracking; Marketing automation

CRM Edition features; Order processing; Invoicing & credit notes

Event publishing; Ticket sales; Attendance check in

Limitations

Does not include order management and invoicing capabilities

Higher cost may be prohibitive for smaller businesses

Significant jump in costs to unlock all events tools

Workbooks CRM review: Final verdict

When evaluating a CRM platform, it's crucial to consider not just the raw cost, but the value it delivers relative to that cost. In my experience, Workbooks CRM offers exceptional value for the price, thanks to its flexible pricing model, robust feature set, and generous free trial period.

Unlike many competitors that offer complex tiered pricing or charge separately for different modules, Workbooks has just 3 straightforward plans: CRM, Business, and Events.

CRM Edition

- Best for: Small to mid-sized sales and support teams that need a centralized 360-degree view of their customers without complex back-office requirements.

- What you get: This plan provides the core essentials for managing the customer lifecycle. It includes robust tools for contact and account management, lead tracking, and pipeline management. Beyond just sales, it features a full suite for customer service, including helpdesk ticketing and case management. Users also benefit from Google and Office 365 integrations, basic reporting, and the ability to send professional quotations directly from the platform. It is a streamlined choice for businesses focusing primarily on relationship building and service delivery.

Business Edition

- Best for: Organizations that want to bridge the gap between sales and finance by managing the entire quote-to-cash process within a single system.

- What you get: The Business Edition includes every feature found in the CRM Edition but adds powerful commercial and financial capabilities. This plan allows you to manage orders, generate invoices, track supplier contracts, and issue credit notes - all without leaving the CRM. It is specifically designed to integrate with accounting and ERP software, ensuring that your sales team and finance department are looking at the same real-time data. It is the ideal choice for companies that want to eliminate manual data entry between their CRM and their billing systems.

Events Edition

- Best for: Professional event organizers, trade association managers, and marketing teams that run large-scale seminars, conferences, or exhibitions.

- What you get: This plan includes everything in the Business Edition but adds a comprehensive Event Management layer. You can manage every detail of an event from a single dashboard: venue logistics, speaker sessions, sponsor tracking, and registration management. Crucially, it integrates these events directly into your sales pipeline, so a ticket purchase or booth booking automatically updates the customer's financial record and the salesperson’s opportunity view. It’s designed to eliminate the need for separate, disconnected event platforms like Eventbrite or Cvent.

After thoroughly evaluating Workbooks CRM across 6 key categories, I've come away impressed with the platform's capabilities and value proposition. Workbooks excels in its core CRM functionality, providing robust tools for sales, marketing, and customer service. The platform is intuitive and user-friendly, with extensive customization options to tailor the system to unique business needs.

While the third-party app marketplace is not as extensive as some competitors, Workbooks offers seamless integrations with iPaaS vendors and a flexible API for custom development.

But the most striking takeaway from this review is Workbooks' dedication to customer success. The hands-on implementation support, comprehensive training resources, and responsive ongoing service set Workbooks apart in the CRM market. Coupled with transparent and affordable pricing, Workbooks delivers exceptional value for growing businesses.

With a strong track record of innovation and a clear vision for the future, Workbooks is well-positioned for continued success. For mid-market organizations seeking a full-featured CRM with outstanding support, Workbooks CRM is a no-brainer.

Workbooks CRM FAQWhat core features does Workbooks offer?

As a CRM, Workbooks provides a variety of different features - all those you’ve come to expect from a leading CRM. These include tools for sales teams, such as lead and opportunity management, sales reporting, and forecasting, as well as many others designed to aid marketing, such as campaign management, email marketing integrations, and web-to-lead forms. Workbooks also offers customer service features and functionality to aid in a company’s finances, including order management, invoicing, and contract management.

What implementation options are there for Workbooks?

Workbooks offers various implementation options, including a "SelfStart" option for those who want to configure the system themselves, a "JumpStart" option for sales, and a "Shared Success" approach where their consultants work with you to tailor the system to your needs.

It’s also worth noting that businesses don’t have to stick with a single pricing plan for their users. They can mix and match licenses, having different users on different editions - such as having some on the CRM Edition and others on the Business Edition.

Is there a Workbooks mobile app?

This is something that is particularly important in the age of hybrid work - and Workbooks has businesses covered. Workbooks has a mobile platform that allows users to manage contacts, log calls, and update opportunities on the go. Moreover, a significant UI overhaul in late 2025 has made the platform much more intuitive for field agents, with a "Mobile-First" design that prioritizes voice-to-text logging and geolocation mapping.

If the CRM industry is a zoo, Salesforce is an 800-pound gorilla. It’s one of the best CRM software platforms on the market, powered by cutting-edge AI tools and hosted on the cloud. It also has separate modules for managing customer relationships across sales, service, marketing, commerce, and more, making it a great fit for almost any team in any business.

With over 150,000 customers worldwide, Salesforce CRM has been a driving force in the digital transformation of businesses for over two decades.

However, its dominance doesn't necessarily mean it's the best fit for every organization. In this in-depth Salesforce review, I'll dive into the platform's core capabilities, ease of use, integrations, customer support, value for money, and company trajectory to help you determine if it’s the right choice for your business.

My hope is to present you with a well-rounded perspective of Salesforce’s core CRM offerings. At TechRadar Pro, we don't just aggregate data sheets; we live in the software we review. Our expert testers spent dozens of hours inside the Salesforce ecosystem - from setting up the initial Sales Cloud workspace to stress-testing the AI agents and building custom reports.

Our reviews are 100% independent. We never accept payment for product rankings or positive coverage, ensuring our verdict is based solely on hands-on performance, ease of use, and real-world business value.

While not every feature will be available on every module, Salesforce makes it very easy to build your own version by combining different aspects of its suite into a package called Customer 360. You can read our dedicated Salesforce Sales Cloud CRM review here.

Salesforce CRM core capabilities

At its core, Salesforce provides a robust set of CRM features to effectively manage customer relationships throughout the entire lifecycle. On the whole, I've found the core relationship management capabilities to be quite intuitive.

Contact management is straightforward, with the ability to capture detailed information like communication preferences, activity history, and custom fields relevant to my business. I can easily store and organize detailed information about individual contacts, including their role, communication preferences, and interaction history. Plus, the account hierarchy feature is particularly useful for managing complex B2B relationships with parent and child companies.

You can easily score leads based on criteria like demographics, behavior, and engagement. A visual kanban-style lead workspace allows you to drag-and-drop leads through different stages of the sales cycle, from new to qualified to converted. I appreciate the flexibility to customize lead stages and automate assignment rules based on unique sales processes.

I can track deals across every stage, from lead generation to closed-won or closed-lost. Salesforce’s opportunity record provides a complete view of the deal, including products, competition, quotes, and revenue projections. There’s also a collaboration forecasting feature, which allows sales managers to view and adjust team forecasts while providing executives with real-time visibility into the sales pipeline.

Speaking of visibility, Salesforce provides a wide range of standard reports out of the box, covering everything from sales performance to customer service metrics. I've been impressed with the report builder, which allows me to easily create custom reports using a drag-and-drop interface. The ability to schedule and share reports with key stakeholders will improve your team's efficiency and accountability.

Apart from this, Salesforce's mobile app is a useful addition for field sales reps. I can access and update critical customer information, track activities, and even close deals right from my smartphone or tablet. Push notifications keep me informed about important updates, like when a key opportunity stage changes. Salesforce’s mobile experience is intuitive, mirroring the desktop version, ensuring a seamless transition between various devices.

While it hasn't been too long since Salesforce introduced its AI module, Einstein, the pace of change in this field has been rapid. As such, for Salesforce's Spring '26 release cycle, its Einstein AI has been superseded by Agentforce, a new AI platform focused on autonomous AI agents that can execute tasks. Salesforce is now an agentic platform. AI agents no longer just suggest text; they can autonomously perform account research, qualify leads, and even handle Tier-1 and Tier-2 customer service inquiries within defined guardrails.

Salesforce's Agentforce has replaced Einstein, introducing agentic AI to the CRM. (Image credit: Salesforce)

While it offers a wealth of features, I have encountered a few limitations with Salesforce, too. For example, the email templates can be basic compared to other marketing automation platforms. The forecasting tool, while powerful, does require some setup and training to leverage.

Speaking from a more general perspective, Salesforce CRM also features a bit of a learning curve and has a pricing structure that’s somewhat prohibitive for small businesses.

But overall, I've been impressed with the core capabilities of Salesforce CRM. The platform provides a comprehensive set of features to manage the entire customer lifecycle, from lead to loyalty. While there may be a learning curve for some advanced functionality, the benefits in terms of productivity, collaboration, and customer insights far outweigh any challenges.

How easy is Salesforce CRM to use?

Salesforce’s layout is clean and well-organized, with key features and data easily accessible from the navigation menu and dashboard. The use of consistent iconography and naming conventions makes getting around the platform easy and fast. However, given the sheer breadth of features on offer here, a certain learning curve is expected.

It also allows administrators to tailor the user interface to match their organization's specific needs and terminology. I've been able to create custom fields, page layouts, and workflows that align with unique sales processes. While the customization options are extensive, Salesforce provides a user-friendly setup menu and guided wizards to help admins make changes without needing to write code.

Trailhead, Salesforce’s learning platform, offers a wealth of onboarding and training resources to help new users get up to speed quickly. It takes a gamified approach to training, with bite-sized modules and hands-on challenges that cover everything from basic navigation to advanced features. I think that this is an engaging and effective way to onboard new team members, with the added benefit of allowing them to learn at their own pace.

In addition to Trailhead, Salesforce offers extensive documentation, how-to guides, and community forums where users can find answers to common questions and best practices. The Salesforce Success Community is a particularly valuable resource, connecting users with experts and peers who can provide guidance and support.

It has to be said that ine of the biggest complaints about Salesforce has always been its complexity. In late 2025/early 2026, Salesforce addressed this with a redesigned UI. Its new AI-powered Sales Workspace interface consolidates lead research, prospecting, and meeting preparation into a single view, significantly reducing tab fatigue.

Trailhead is a valuable resource for businesses that are rolling out Salesforce to multiple individuals and teams. (Image credit: Salesforce)

Based on my own experience, I think that most users can navigate the basic features and perform essential tasks with Salesforce within a few days of training. More advanced features and customizations may take a few weeks to master, but the platform's intuitive design and robust support resources make the learning process manageable.

Whilst this flexibility is a strength for enterprise customers, it can also be overwhelming for small businesses and probably isn’t the best CRM for startups that don’t have an extensive onboarding budget or lots of ramp-up time. Salesforce’s initial setup and configuration process is a great example of this, requiring a significant time investment and a certain level of technical knowledge to get everything configured optimally.

Despite the issues, however, I've found that the long-term benefits of Salesforce's scalability far outweigh the initial setup hurdles. Once the platform is tailored to your organization's specific needs and processes, it becomes an incredibly powerful and efficient tool for managing customer relationships.

Salesforce CRM integrations

Salesforce provides both pre-built integrations and an open API for custom data exchange. Beyond that, there’s comprehensive documentation, code samples, and developer resources to support integration development and usage.

With the AppExchange marketplace, Salesforce offers a vast library of pre-built integrations and applications from partner companies. These out-of-the-box solutions cover various business functions, such as marketing automation, customer support, accounting, and more.

With over 3,000 pre-built apps already available, businesses can easily find and deploy integrations that align with their specific requirements. Popular integrations include Mailchimp for email marketing, Zendesk for customer support, QuickBooks for accounting, and Jira for project management.

For businesses with unique integration needs, Salesforce provides a robust and well-documented API. The Salesforce REST API allows developers to access and manipulate data programmatically, enabling custom integrations with internal systems and external applications.

Salesforce’s API supports standard HTTP methods and exchanges data through JSON or XML responses, making it compatible with a wide range of programming languages and tools. It supports various protocols and data formats, such as REST, SOAP, and bulk data operations, giving developers flexibility in designing integrations.

Salesforce also provides robust data management capabilities to maintain data integrity during integrations. Features like data mapping, transformation, and cleansing ensure that data is properly formatted and synchronized between systems. Additionally, Salesforce's data governance tools help enforce data quality standards and compliance requirements, giving businesses confidence in the accuracy and security of their integrated data.

During my time with the CRM, Salesforce's integration capabilities appeared reliable and performant. Pre-built integrations from the AppExchange worked quite seamlessly. Plus, the API was stable and responsive, allowing for efficient data exchange and real-time updates. Data synchronization was consistent and timely for both pre-built integrations and custom ones.

However, it's important to note that the success of integrations largely depends on proper implementation and adherence to best practices. Salesforce’s Developer Community provides guidelines and recommendations for integration development, such as understanding limits, securing data, and implementing authentication methods. Custom integrations can be built using popular programming languages like Java, C#, and Python, making it accessible to a wide range of developers.

One major recent integration addition focuses on improving the quality of interoperability. For instance, in late 2025, Salesforce completed its acquisition of Informatica, making it a core part of the Data Cloud ecosystem. This means users can now perform "intelligent integration" where the CRM automatically flags data quality issues, deduplicates records, and ensures data governance across your entire tech stack before that data ever reaches your sales reps

Additionally, Salesforce's partner network includes a wide range of integration specialists and consultants who can assist businesses in designing and implementing complex integration solutions. Plus, the company releases regular updates and new features that expand its integration capabilities and improve overall performance.

Salesforce CRM customer support

Salesforce offers several different support channels, including both live and self-service options. Users can reach out for assistance via phone, live chat, and email, depending on their preference and the urgency of their issue. Based on user testimonials, support representatives appear to be knowledgeable, patient, and genuinely interested in providing a satisfactory resolution.

Live chat offers quick and convenient assistance for less complex queries. Representatives are more than happy to offer step-by-step guidance or direct you to relevant resources. For more involved queries, you can contact the support team via phone at +1-800-664-9073. Email support, while not as immediate as phone or chat, is a reliable enough option for less urgent matters, with representatives typically responding within a day or two.

In addition to live support, Salesforce offers a vast collection of self-help resources under the umbrella of Salesforce Help. It’s a comprehensive knowledge base that covers every aspect of the platform, from basic setup to advanced customization. The articles, videos, and documentation are all well-prepared, easy to follow, and frequently updated to reflect the latest features and best practices.

Part of the larger self-help infrastructure of Salesforce Help, there’s also Trailhead. It’s a guided and gamified learning module that offers an interactive way to quickly familiarize yourself with the platform’s most important features and functionality. You can use Trailhead to upgrade your Salesforce skills, earn badges for each milestone, and then promote your services and expertise through the associated community.

Speaking of community, Salesforce Trailblazer connects users from around the world to share knowledge, ask questions, and collaborate on solutions using a dedicated forum. A quick look at the platform shows you how active and helpful the community is, thanks to both internal experts and other users. Every day, the community forum highlights active members to reward them for their participation. This makes sure that users feel rewarded for helping others navigate the platform and troubleshoot their issues.

In terms of response times, Salesforce generally meets or exceeds industry standards. Customer satisfaction with Salesforce support is consistently high, as demonstrated by a 4.5-star rating on platforms like G2 and TrustRadius. While the learning curve for new users is steep, Salesforce’s generally reliable and helpful support system makes it much easier to adopt.

That said, there is always room for improvement. Some users have reported longer wait times during peak hours or when dealing with particularly complex issues. It also seems that the quality of help received is directly influenced by the support tier you’re on. Customers who purchase Premier+ Support or Mission Critical Support receive priority access to better agents. Meanwhile, standard users are mostly stuck using the self-service options.

Salesforce CRM security

Salesforce CRM's security credentials represent one of the platform’s strong points. The CRM uses a shared responsibility model, with Salesforce providing a secure infrastructure and the customer being responsible for configuring and managing the security of their data within the platform.

Among the features that Salesforce employs to guarantee customer security is encryption, both at rest and in transit. For instance, all data transmitted between a user's device and Salesforce servers is protected by industry-standard Transport Layer Security encryption. At the same time, all data stored on Salesforce servers is encrypted using a unique key for each organization. Salesforce uses industry-standard AES-256 encryption, considered a highly secure encryption method.

In addition, for businesses with particularly stringent security and compliance needs, Salesforce offers an additional paid add-on called Salesforce Shield. This allows for more comprehensive encryption of sensitive data within standard and custom fields, files, and attachments. It even offers the option for customers to "Bring Your Own Key" (BYOK) for enhanced control. By exclusively managing their digital assets, organizations gain an extra layer of protection.

Salesforce CRM pricing and plans Salesforce CRM pricing plans

Plan

Price (per user, per month)

Features

Limitations

Starter Suite

$25

Basic CRM functionality, including sales pipeline, prospect tracking, contact management, and reporting. It includes email marketing campaigns and omnichannel customer service.

Designed for small teams and has limited customization and reporting capabilities.

Professional Suite

$80

All Starter Suite features plus more advanced CRM tools like workflow automation, collaboration features, and improved reporting.All Starter Suite features plus more advanced CRM tools like workflow automation, collaboration features, and improved reporting.

Lacks some advanced features found in higher-tier plans.

Enterprise

$165

Includes all Professional Suite features, plus advanced reporting, additional custom objects, and increased API call limits.

Can be expensive, and even at this tier, some features (like AI-powered chatbots) may be paid add-ons.

Unlimited

$330

All Enterprise features, along with priority support, a dedicated success team, and expanded customization options. Includes AI lead scoring and forecasting KPIs.

The most expensive plan, and not all features are included; some may still be paid add-ons. You cannot downgrade from this plan.

As one of the most expensive CRM solutions on the market, Salesforce demands a significant investment, but it also delivers a robust platform that can grow with your business. A per-user pricing model allows for flexibility as your team grows, but it can become costly for larger organizations.

Salesforce employs a tiered pricing model with four main editions: Essentials, Professional, Enterprise, and Unlimited. The Essentials plan starts at $25 per user per month while the Unlimited plan costs $300 per user, per month.

However, Salesforce offers a breadth of features even in lower-tier plans. Essentials, while basic, still includes features like account and contact management, opportunity tracking, and email integration. But, advanced capabilities like lead scoring and collaborative forecasting are only available from Professional, while workflow automation is restricted to Enterprise and Unlimited.

The company offers a 14-day free trial. After that, Salesforce offers annual billing for all plans except Essentials, which can be paid monthly. While opting for annual billing often comes with a discount, it requires a larger upfront investment and less flexibility for businesses with fluctuating needs.

Apart from the core plans, Salesforce also offers various add-ons that can enhance the CRM's functionality. While these can provide excellent value for businesses with specific needs, you should calculate costs thoroughly to make sure the investment justifies the ROI.

When comparing Salesforce to other CRM solutions, it's important to consider the total cost of ownership. While the initial price may be higher, Salesforce's extensive customization options, robust app ecosystem, and scalability can provide you with more long-term value. Its ability to integrate with a wide range of third-party applications can also lead to increased efficiency and productivity, potentially offsetting the higher cost.

But for smaller businesses or those with simpler CRM needs, Salesforce’s pricing may prove prohibitive. Unless you need all the advanced functionality, there are more affordable options on the market that offer similar core functionalities at a lower price point.

Saleforce trajectory

Salesforce has maintained its position as the dominant player in the CRM market, consistently innovating and expanding its offerings. As of 2023, it commanded 21.7% of the global CRM market share, easily outpacing its nearest competitors, Microsoft (5.9%), Oracle (4.4%), SAP (3.5%), and Adobe (3.4%).

In the current fiscal year, Salesforce reported a total revenue of $34.86 billion, 11% more than last year. Meanwhile, the company's subscription and support revenues, which form the core of its business model, grew by 12% to $32.54 billion. Its growth trajectory is supported by strategic acquisitions, such as Tableau and Slack, which have expanded its capabilities and reach.

Going beyond the financials, Salesforce's user community is one of the largest and most active in the software industry. Its ecosystem, including customers, partners, and developers, continues to grow rapidly. Right now, 150,000+ businesses utilize its services globally.

As a CRM, Salesforce was named a leader in various analyst reports, such as The Forrester Wave and IDC MarketScape, which evaluate solutions based on criteria like market impact, vision, and capability. The company's Pledge 1% initiative, which encourages companies to donate 1% of equity, product, and employee time to charitable causes, has garnered participation from over 15,000 companies worldwide.

Looking ahead, Salesforce's trajectory appears promising, with projections indicating continued growth in both market share and revenue. The company's focus on integrating AI-driven insights into its platform is expected to further enhance its offerings and maintain its competitive edge.

With regular updates, an active user community, and strategic partnerships through Salesforce AppExchange and Partner Innovation Awards, Salesforce continues to operate as the undisputed leader of the CRM space - despite competition from giants like Microsoft, Oracle, and Adobe.

Salesforce CRM review: Summary

After a comprehensive evaluation of Salesforce CRM, I have found that the platform excels in several key areas, offering a robust set of core capabilities and extensive integration options. It’s a great choice in particular for medium-to-large enterprises, with a pricing structure and learning curve that may not be the best CRM for small businesses.

Salesforce CRM FAQWhat are the main benefits of using Salesforce CRM?

The core advantages of making Salesforce your organization’s chosen CRM include improved sales productivity, enhanced customer service, streamlined marketing efforts, and better data-driven decision-making. By automating tasks and providing real-time analytics, it helps businesses increase efficiency and drive revenue growth.

Is Salesforce a good fit for small businesses?

Although Salesforce may be better known for its enterprise-level solutions and can be a significant investment, it also offers a "Starter Suite" designed for small businesses. However, its pricing and complexity can be a barrier for firms that don’t have huge budgets or IT teams. As such, some small businesses may find more value in more affordable or less complex CRM solutions, such as Freshworks or Zoho.

What’s the difference between Sales Cloud and Service Cloud?

With the plethora of different solutions under the Salesforce umbrella, the different tools on offer can be somewhat confusing. To clear things up, it’s important to get the difference between Sales Cloud and Service Cloud clear in your head.

While Sales Cloud is designed for sales teams to manage the sales process, including lead and opportunity tracking, contact management, and sales forecasting, Service Cloud is for customer service teams, providing tools for case management, a knowledge base, and omnichannel support (phone, email, chat). Essentially, both are designed to improve customer relationships, but in different ways.

What is the Salesforce AppExchange?

The Salesforce AppExchange is an online marketplace for third-party developers and partners to list and sell applications and integrations that extend Salesforce's functionality. It's a key part of the Salesforce ecosystem, offering thousands of pre-built solutions for various business needs.

Tribit QuietPlus 81: review

If you’re looking for an ultra-cheap pair of noise cancelling headphones, the Tribit QuietPlus 81 appear to be a very tempting option indeed. With a list price of just $49.99 / £49.99 (about AU$75), they pack a lot in – ANC, a ton of playtime, and a neat, foldable design. But are they really worth checking out?

Well, in a lot of ways, these headphones are impressive. Above all, I was blown away by their ultra-long battery life. You get 70 hours with ANC on, and a whopping 110 hours with ANC off. That means you’ll barely have to charge these cans, ideal if you’re someone that’s on the go quite a bit… or are just forgetful like I am.

Like the best headphones around, these also have pretty extensive EQ options. There are a range of genre and situation-specific presets, but you can also set your own with the included 10-band equalizer. This means that you can create the sound that works best for you – an important inclusion, given that these headphones do not sound great out of the box.

Yes, I understand that these are incredibly cheap, and I didn’t have big expectations for these headphones, sonically speaking. But still, I think there are better-sounding options in the budget category – more on those in the ‘Also consider’ section. But essentially, these cans just lack the clarity, dynamism, and detail that others offer.

When listening to Black Eye by Allie X, synth beat intro lacked the razor-sharp delivery that makes it so impactful. The drum machine that follows sounds pretty deep, but also quite bloated, leaving the track devoid of its intense, energetic character. With the standard ‘Music’ tuning, instruments in the treble range are concealed, but even with a custom setup, I wasn’t able to get the expressive sound I was chasing.

Moving over to 12 O.C Riddim by M-High – a track that’s great for testing the low-end capabilities of headphones – and the picture was fairly mixed. High-pitched percussion in the build up again lacked the vibrancy and edge I was looking for, and although the headphones could reach down to the track’s dark depths, bass wasn’t agile or clean enough for a truly immersive listen.

Just generally, these headphones lack the refined sound you’d expect from a budget model like the 1More Sonoflow Pro HQ51. With a custom EQ, you can get adequate sound when listening at mid-volumes, just don’t expect to get anything out of the ordinary for $50 / £50 headphones.

(Image credit: Future)

Let’s get onto another crucial area and discuss ANC. So, these headphones can be used in normal mode, transparency mode (for enhanced awareness), and with noise cancelling on. I spent most of my time testing the headphones with ANC on, and in honesty, it was about as good as I’d expected.

When working in the office, I could still hear chatter and typing with volume set to 70%. On walks, traffic noise was still pretty prominent too, as was the sound of passerbys talking. Sure, these dampen surrounding sounds decently enough, but they’re unlikely to impress on the noise cancelling front.

One feature that interested me on these headphones, though, was their ability to trigger transparency mode in an instant. You can simply hold down on the right earcup, and hear your surroundings – as seen on the excellent Sony WH-1000XM6. Is this the most responsive? No – the feature doesn’t activate instantly as it would on the XM6. But still, it’s fairly effective, and a worthwhile inclusion.

More generally though, controls on the QuietPlus are pretty poor. After a firmware update, I was able to access ‘customizable touch controls’, but I couldn’t set playback control to the right ear cup… that’s limited to physical button controls. These buttons are black on black, and are slightly hard to read – and the volume controls being bound to one small-sized button is very impractical.

Touch controls themself are fairly responsive, but all they can do is activate XBass mode – which doesn’t sound good – or summon a voice assistant. I personally would’ve preferred standard touch controls to play, pause, or skip music – as seen on a model like the Bose QuietComfort Ultra Headphones (2nd Gen).

There are a few other features to explore, like a lower-latency game mode, wired listening via a 3.5mm slot, and hearing protection. You can find just about everything you need in the Tribit app, although this is a pretty rudimentary piece of software – something I flagged in my review of the Tribit PocketGo.

In terms of design, these headphones are hit and miss. They’re foldable, which makes them pleasingly compact, and their adjustable headband makes them easy to fit. One thing that's not too well-designed is the packaging. The box says these headphones offer "ULTRA LONG BATT" and "SMOOTH TALKING"... that's one way to make a first impression.

Anyway, in spite of their use of ‘protein leather cushioning and memory foam’, I found the QuietPlus 81 to be a little uncomfortable for extended use. To me, they’re a little tight-feeling, and padding on the headband feels a little thin. Looks-wise, however, these headphones are solid. They don’t look ultra plasticky, and the earcups have a rounded look, which is fairly appealing.

In the end, then, would I recommend the Tribit QuietPlus 81 headphones? Unfortunately, the answer is no. There are certainly some commendable qualities on offer here, like that brilliant battery life and ten-band equalizer. But sonically, these fail to beat out rivals in their price category. Combine that with some unremarkable ANC and features, and I’d say you’re better off putting that $50 / £50 towards a pair of the best cheap headphones instead.

(Image credit: Future)Tribit QuietPlus 81 review: specs

Drivers

40mm dynamic

Active noise cancellation

Yes

Battery life

70 hours ANC on; 110 hours ANC off

Weight

283g

Connectivity

Bluetooth 6.0, 3.5mm

Frequency range

20Hz-20kHz

(Image credit: Future)Tribit QuietPlus 81 review: price and release date

• $49.99 / £49.99 (about AU$75)
• Launched in December 2025

The Tribit QuietPlus 81 headphones were released in December 2025, and are available via Tribit’s website directly, or over on Amazon. They have a list price of $49.99 / £49.99 (about AU$75), which plants them firmly in the budget category.

(Image credit: Future)Should I buy the Tribit QuietPlus 81?

Attributes

Notes

Rating

Features

Excellent battery life, but unremarkable ANC and clunky app.

3/5

Sound quality

Can get pretty deep, but audio is pretty muddy and lacks dynamism.

2.5/5

Design

Not particularly comfortable, poor controls, but decent looking.

2/5

Value

Cheap, but quality doesn’t match up to other budget rivals.

3/5

Buy them if...

You want ANC for less
The Tribit QuietPlus 81 provide active noise cancelling capabilities for less than $50 / £50. Sure, it’s not the most amazing ANC around, but these headphones will still dampen noise from your surroundings decently.

You want headphones with a whole lot of battery life
With 110 hours of battery life with ANC off and 70 hours with it on, the Tribit QuietPlus 81 supply a whole lot of playtime. That’s more than the majority of budget rivals, and makes them ideal for those who don’t want to charge their headphones all too often.

Don't buy them if...

You want some comfy cans
In my experience, the QuietPlus 81 weren’t very comfortable. There’s not much padding on the adjustable headband, and they were a slightly tight fit, meaning they’re not ideal for longer listening sessions. If you want some seriously comfortable headphones, my top recommendation would be the Anker Soundcore Space One Pro.

You’re looking for good sound quality
The underwhelming audio of the Tribit QuietPlus 81 is one of their key flaws, and sees them lag behind some of the budget-friendly competition. If you want better audio at a still-low price, I’d recommend one of the options down below.

Tribit QuietPlus 81 review: also consider

Tribit QuietPlus 81

1More Sonoflow Pro HQ51

OneOdio Focus A6

Price

$49.99 / £49.99 (about AU$75)

$89 / £99 / AU$130

$55 / £55 (about AU$110)

Drivers

40mm dynamic

40mm dynamic

40mm composite

Active noise cancellation

Yes

Yes

Yes

Battery life

70 hours ANC on; 110 hours ANC off

65 hours ANC on; 100 hours ANC off

75 hours ANC off; 40 hours ANC on

Weight

283g

246g

240g

Connectivity

Bluetooth 6.0, 3.5mm

Bluetooth 5.4, 3.5mm

Bluetooth 6.0, USB-C audio passthrough

Frequency range

20Hz-20kHz

20Hz-40kHz

20Hz-40kHz

1More Sonoflow Pro HQ51
The 1More Sonoflow Pro HQ51 remain as the top budget pick in our guide to the best noise-cancelling headphones, and for good reason. With genuinely good ANC, seriously impressive audio, and plenty of playtime, they feel like the ultimate cheap pair of headphones. They’re often on sale for less than their already phenomenally low list price, and I’d certainly recommend them over these Tribit cans. Read our full 1More Sonoflow Pro HQ51 review.

OneOdio Focus A6
These ultra-cheap headphones really impressed us with their comfy fit and quality build, their exhaustive suite of features, and their genuinely good sound quality. You really can’t do much better than this for cans sitting around the $50 / £50 mark, so these are well-worth checking out. Read our full OneOdio Focus A6 review.

How I tested the Tribit QuietPlus 81

(Image credit: Future)

• Tested for one week
• Used in the office and while on walks
• Predominantly tested using Tidal

I spent one week testing the Tribit QuietPlus 81, during which time I took them just about everywhere I went. Whether I was on a walk, working in the office, or doing chores at home, I made sure to have the headphones at hand – allowing me to test the quality of their ANC in a wide range of settings.

When listening to music, I predominantly made use of Tidal, but I did dip into Spotify from time to time as well. As always, I commenced my testing by running through the TechRadar testing playlist, which features songs from a wide range of genres, but I also tuned into a heap of tracks from my personal music library.

On top of that, I made use of the various features on the QuietPlus 81, messing around with the customizable controls, ANC modes, and custom equalizer. More generally, I’ve been a Reviews Writer here at TechRadar for almost two years, during which time I’ve tested a whole lot of headphones, including premium releases like the Sennheiser HDB 630 and budget alternatives like the Baseus Bowie 30 Max.

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

The Honeywell Home X2S Smart Thermostat is an easy-to-use Energy Star certified thermostat. It’s not the most sleek or modern-looking device, but it does the job.

The Honeywell Home X2S Smart Thermostat is compatible with up to 2 heat/2 cool conventional, up to 2 heat/1 cool heat pump with electric backup, hot water heat, forced air (gas, oil, or electric.) It isn't compatible with electric baseboard heat (120-240V).

This thermostat comes with detailed installation instructions, but we found it beyond us and ended up hiring a professional to do it. Installation does require a C wire, though Honeywell Home does sell an adaptor kit if your home lacks one. Once the thermostat was physically installed in my home, I had no trouble at all setting it up with the app and getting it working. And it works beautifully.

You’ll need to download the First Alert by Resideo app initially to set up your schedule. You can create a 5-1-1 day cycle, 5-2 day cycle, 7-day cycle, or set up one-week increments. You can also create a vacation schedule, even after you've left. Toggle on the Auto Away feature to allow the thermostat to update automatically based on your phone's location. You can also have the app send you filter change reminders. The First Alert app can also control any of their other home devices you may own, such as CO2/smoke alarms, security cameras, air quality filters, water leak sensors, and more.

(Image credit: Future)

Don't like using a separate app? You can also control the thermostat with your ecosystem of choice, Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant, or Apple HomeKit (Matter certified.) I'm an Apple user, and I did not find that Siri voice control worked properly. However, Control Center worked just fine.

You can also manage the thermostat the old-fashioned way, toggling through the menu with the six buttons next to the display.

(Image credit: Karen Freeman / Future)Honeywell Home X2S Smart Thermostat: Price and availability

The Honeywell Home X2S Smart Thermostat was announced at CES in January 2025 and was released for sale in the US and Canada in the spring of 2025. As of this writing, it retails for $79.99 in the US but isn’t for sale yet outside of North America. You can find it at Amazon, Walmart, and tons of other major retailers online and in brick and mortar stores.

This model, otherwise known as RTH2CWF/U X2S Smart Thermostat, replaces Honeywell Home’s RTH6580 WiFi 7-day Programmable Thermostat, which retailed for a similar price. It’s not as fancy-looking as some of the models you’ll find on our roundup of the best smart thermostats, but it gets the job done.

(Image credit: Karen Freeman / Future)Honeywell Home X2S Smart Thermostat: Design

Honeywell Home X2S Smart Thermostat comes in just one colorway. Honeywell Home calls it “white,” but I’d call it dove gray and off-white to be more specific. It measures 3.44 in/87 mm high, 5.13 in/130 mm wide, and 1.188 in/29.5 mm deep. It has a basic black-on-gray LCD display that lights up when you press a button. When dormant, the thermostat screen shows Mode, Current Temperature, Set Temperature, Status Display, Fan, and Time. It’s much easier to read when lit up, but it can be read when dormant as well.

The thermostat comes with detailed directions, so you can install it yourself if you’re fairly handy. I ended up calling a professional to install it, since I was unable to do it myself and I was having some other work done as well. It didn’t take the professional long at all. Installation does require a C-wire (24 VAC), which my home didn’t have. Honeywell Home does sell an adapter kit in case your home doesn’t have this wire. You also need to have WiFi 2.4 or 5GHz (802.11 b/g/n) in order for the smart features to work properly. Once you install Honeywell Home’s UWP wall plate, future upgrades will be easier, since you can just change the thermostat without redoing all of the wiring.

(Image credit: Karen Freeman / Future)

The Honeywell Home X2S Smart Thermostat is Energy Star certified. You’ll need to download Resideo’s First Alert app on your smartphone in order to set up the thermostat. It’s also the easiest way to control the thermostat. But once you’ve set it up, you can control it manually on the thermostat itself, or with Amazon Alexa, Apple Home, or Google Assistant. The thermostat is Matter-certified.

The thermostat is compatible with up to 2 heat/2 cool conventional, up to 2 heat/1 cool heat pump with electric backup, hot water heat, forced air (gas, oil, or electric.) It does not work with electric baseboard heat (120-240V).

You don’t need to waste money heating or cooling your home unnecessarily when you’re away. Set up the thermostat’s schedule for a 5-1-1 day cycle, 5-2 day cycle, 7-day cycle, or one-week increments. You can also set up a vacation schedule. Toggle on the Auto Away feature to allow the thermostat to update based on your location.

(Image credit: Karen Freeman / Future)Honeywell Home X2S Smart Thermostat: Performance

The Honeywell Home X2S Smart Thermostat was only released months ago, but it looks like something from an earlier time. It’s not unattractive, but it doesn’t look particularly modern either. You can fully operate with the buttons just like you could in the 'old days', but you’ll have to go through a lot of menus to do so. It’s easier just to operate it within the app.

(Image credit: Future)

I hate to put yet another app on my iPhone, but this one, First Alert by Resideo, is important for the best experience with the Honeywell Home X2S Smart Thermostat. I did try controlling it from Control Center on my iPhone, but features are limited there. I also tried voice commands to Siri, but it didn’t work well. The thermostat definitely 'heard' me and changed the temperature, but it did not go to the temperature I said.

Using the First Alert app, the Honeywell Home X2S Smart Thermostat works great. I set it to heat my home to 68°F/20°C during the day and 63°F/17°C at night. Since my husband and I both often work from home, I didn’t set a daytime “away” temperature, though I could. I did take a nine-day vacation and set up a special vacation schedule, which worked beautifully. I checked multiple times on my vacation to make sure my home was only heated enough to avoid the pipes freezing. My home was comfortably warm when I returned on a particularly cold January day.

(Image credit: Future)

The Honeywell Home X2S Smart Thermostat is compatible with Apple HomeKit (Matter enabled), Google Assistant, and Amazon Alexa. The First Alert app makes it easy to change the temperature, set up a daily/weekly schedule, turn your fan on and off, switch from heat to cool, and create vacation settings. You can also track your HVAC runtime in the app. You can also run other First Alert products via the app, such as air filters, smoke/CO2 alarms, security cameras, and water leak/freeze detectors.

I found that the Honeywell Home X2S Smart Thermostat worked quite well in heating my home to my specifications. I like being able to set the schedule to my precise daily needs, and being able to set up vacation mode even while already away on vacation. I feel like there is a lot less wasted HVAC use, as the thermostat makes it easy to set up a tailored schedule.

Should you buy the Honeywell Home X2S Smart Thermostat?Buy it if

You want a reasonably-priced smart thermostat

While not the cheapest option on the market, there are certainly pricier ones out there. You can find this one well under the retail price if you shop around.View Deal

You only want to pay to heat and cool your home when you’re in it

Set up granular daily and weekly controls tailored to your schedule. Plus you can set up Auto Away so the thermostat updates based on your phone’s location and Vacation Settings as needed.View Deal

You want a flexible smart thermostat

The First Alert app is very easy to use, but you can also control the thermostat with your home’s ecosystem of choice. You can also go old school and use the buttons on the thermostat itself.View Deal

Don't buy it if

You don’t want to deal with another app

Yes, you do have to install the First Alert by Resideo app to get the thermostat set up. However, you could delete it later and just use your home’s ecosystem assistant or the buttons to control it.View Deal

You’re not handy and don’t want to pay a pro to install it

My husband is pretty handy (I’m not) but we ended up having to pay a pro to install the thermostat. Your mileage may vary.View Deal

You prefer to use voice activation

I had no trouble using Control Center on my iPhone to control the thermostat, but Siri’s voice activation didn’t work for me.View Deal

Honeywell Home X2S Smart Thermostat: alternatives to consider

If you're in the market for a smart thermostat and you're not sure Honeywell Home X2S Smart Thermostat is the one, here are some others you might consider checking out.

Google Nest Learning Thermostat (Gen 4)

This one topped our Best Smart Thermostat list due to its great looks, automatic heating schedule creation, and the fact that it compensates for outdoor temperature. It doesn’t require a C wire, which may make installation easier. However, it’s not compatible with Apple HomeKit.

Read our full review: Google Nest Learning Thermostat (Gen 4)View Deal

Hive Thermostat (2024)

This one is compatible with Alexa, Google Home, and Apple HomeKit. You can also use the Hive app if you don’t have any of them. The thermostat has a clear touchscreen display instead of buttons and it makes home heating more efficient.

Read our review: Hive Thermostat (2024)View Deal

Image 1 of 4

(Image credit: Karen Freeman / Future)Image 2 of 4

(Image credit: Karen Freeman / Future)Image 3 of 4

(Image credit: Karen Freeman / Future)Image 4 of 4

(Image credit: Karen Freeman / Future)

Sony Inzone E9: Two-minute review

Sony makes it very clear who the Inzone E9 in-ear gaming headphones are for. Developed in partnership with eSports team Fnatic, these wired in-ear monitor (IEM) style earbuds are squarely aimed at competitive first-person shooter (FPS) players or those with a generous budget aspiring to become one.

Retailing for $149.99 / £129 / AU$209, they’re competing closely with some of the best gaming earbuds like the SteelSeries Arctis GameBuds, but don’t deliver the same all-round performance. If you’re looking for something that will elevate your experience in some of the best story games like God of War Ragnarok or Cyberpunk 2077, then these are certainly not it.

The Sony Inzone E9 headphones are highly comfortable to wear and come with a superb carrying case, but the unapologetically flat sound is not going to help cutscenes or action sequences sound their best. The GameBuds, or even Sony’s own but more expensive Inzone Buds, are clearly better choices, but it's hard to fault the Inzone E9 in-ear gaming headphones for that, as that’s obviously not what they’re for.

(Image credit: Future)

They really come into their own in a competitive first-person shooter (FPS) setting, pairing well with games like Counter-Strike 2, Valorant, and Call of Duty: Black Ops 7. Here, the lack of bass prevents explosion and gunfire sound effects from overwhelming your senses, allowing you to focus on the impressive directional reproduction instead. The direction of key audio cues like footsteps is crystal clear and remarkably easy to discern, potentially giving you an advantage over those without such specialised audio gear.

The noise isolation is exquisite, thanks in no small part to the excellent seal of the headphones in your ears. A plethora of ear tips is included in the box to make it easy to find the perfect fit, and the included USB-C audio box stores EQ profile settings to make for a hassle-free setup every time - ideal if you’re competing in tournaments and need to access the same settings on a new machine.

Sony Inzone E9: Price and availability

• $149.99 / £129 / AU$209
• Available directly via Sony
• Also at a range of retailers including Amazon

The Sony Inzone E9 in-ear gaming headphones are priced at $149.99 / £129 / AU$209. This is a significant investment for a pair of wired gaming earbuds, with top wireless options like the SteelSeries Arctis GameBuds costing not much more at $159.99 / £159.99 / AU$359.

In addition to traditional gaming options, the Sony Inzone E9 in-ear gaming headphones are also competing with the pricey in-ear monitor (IEM) earbuds favored by some FPS players. Here they come in at a very similar price to relatively affordable models from other big brands, such as the $149.99 / £129.99 Sennheiser IE 200. The Sony Inzone E9 in-ear gaming headphones are made specifically for gaming, however, setting them apart from most of the market and helping to justify the price.

The Sony Inzone E9 in-ear gaming headphones are available directly via Sony in the US and UK. They can also be found at a wide range of retailers, such as Best Buy in the US or Amazon in the UK. In Australia they’re in stock at both JB Hi-Fi and Harvey Norman.

Sony Inzone E9: Specs

Price

$149.99 / £129 / AU$209

Weight

0.16oz / 4.7g

Compatibility

PS5, PS4, Xbox Series X and Series S, Xbox One, PC, Nintendo Switch, Nintendo Switch 2, mobile

Connection type

Wired (3.5mm / USB-C with audio box)

Battery life

N/A

Features

USB-C audio box, spatial audio

Software

Inzone Hub (PC)

Sony Inzone E9: Design and features

• IEM style design
• Included USB-C audio box stores settings
• Fantastic carrying case

The Sony Inzone E9 in-ear gaming headphones will have a familiar design if you’ve used a pair of IEM earbuds before.

They’re lightweight, with rounded earbuds connected to a rigid section of cable that hooks around the top of your ears. Two colorways are available: black and white. Both are rather plain, but the abundance of Inzone logo branding printed on the earbuds does give them some character.

Sony has definitely made some smart decisions when it comes to practicality, particularly with the length of the headphone’s cable. At 5.9ft / 1.8m, I found that it was more than long enough to comfortably reach my ears directly from my gaming PC’s 3.5mm headphone jack without the need for a cable extender. If you play on a console, you won’t have any issues hooking it up to your controller.

I also appreciate the clear left / right marking that’s printed on each earbud, with the latter presented in a bright red that makes it easy to spot at a glance.

(Image credit: Future)

A wealth of alternate ear tips come in the box, with a total of eight pairs to choose from. This includes standard silicone rubber ear tips and more foamy noise isolation earbud tips, both in four sizes (ranging from extra small to extra large). These are Sony’s widespread EP-EX10A and EP-NI1010 series tips - so replacements are easy to find if you need them later down the line.

You get a USB-C audio box for use with PCs, too. This can be used to store settings from the compatible Inzone Hub software, like your desired equalizer pre-sets or custom profiles. It also lets you use a dedicated spatial sound mode, giving a good impression of sound in a 3D space, albeit at the cost of some overall fidelity.

(Image credit: Future)

Between uses, you can store everything in the included carrying case that benefits from a surprisingly unique design. It’s divided into two compartments (one for the earbuds and the other for the audio box) joined together by a springy rubberized strip.

The underside of the strip has little magnetic buttons, clipping down to keep everything in place. It might be a bit hard to imagine, but it works really well and is much more practical than the cheap pouches included with most earbuds these days.

You also get a little Inzone-branded cable tidy, which is a neat bonus.

Sony Inzone E9 review: Performance

• Clear sound
• Highly tuned for FPS games
• Underwhelming with other genres

The Sony Inzone E9 in-ear gaming headphones have quite a flat sound profile out of the box, though this is presumably intentional. There’s not a lot of bass leading to quite an unexciting sound. Playing through some Metal Gear Solid Delta: Snake Eater and Assassin’s Creed Shadows on PS5, key story moments felt a tad muted with the backing music missing the punch needed to really drive the emotion home.

You can address this somewhat by tweaking the EQ settings in the compatible Inzone Hub software, but there’s only so much that you can do to increase the bass on hardware that’s not designed for it. For story-focused games, the results were never punchier than what you get out of the box with the SteelSeries Arctis GameBuds and far less effective than even cheap wired over-ear sets like the Corsair HS50.

This lack of bass makes a lot more sense when you jump into a competitive shooter like Counter-Strike 2. Flashbangs and grenades are no longer overwhelming and don’t threaten to deafen you if you’re playing at higher volumes. Gunfire is more subdued, helping you stay focused in firefights.

The sound is crystal clear too, with an impressive level of directionality that makes it easy to track enemy movements using key sounds like footsteps. It’s very impressive, especially given how well the effect holds up in more frantic situations. Diving into an explosive match of Nuketown in Black Ops 7, I was able to accurately hear where nearby opponents were moving, even against the constant barrage of explosions conjured by grenades and killstreaks.

(Image credit: Future)

The detail is excellent, which is borderline essential in tense extraction shooters such as Escape From Tarkov, where being able to discern the subtle snapping of a twig can often mean the difference between life and death. If you’re currently one of the many people devoting every waking moment to Arc Raiders, I could see the Sony Inzone E9 in-ear gaming headphones being worth the asking price on this fact alone.

Despite offering no active noise cancellation (ANC), the Sony Inzone E9 in-ear gaming headphones do a commendable job of blocking out background noise by virtue of the strong seal of their fit. No, it’s not as effective as the ANC of the SteelSeries Arctis GameBuds, but it is good enough to drown out household sounds and conversations with the volume set at a decent level.

Although very uncommon in the IEM market, I’m also a little disappointed that the Sony Inzone E9 in-ear gaming headphones don’t come with a small built-in microphone. It’s not a dealbreaker by any means, but it did mean that I had to reach for my Final VR2000 gaming earbuds when I wanted to chat with a friend while playing an Xbox Series X game.

(Image credit: Future)Should I buy the Sony Inzone E9 in-ear gaming headphones?Buy it if...

You’re a die-hard FPS fan
If you’re an FPS-head shopping for a pair of earbuds that you want to use exclusively to play the latest shooters, then the Sony Inzone E9 in-ear gaming headphones could be a very worthwhile investment.

You want every possible advantage
The directionality offered by the Sony Inzone E9 in-ear gaming headphones is excellent and could mean the difference between a win and a loss in a competitive gaming setting. Pick up a pair if you want to ensure you have every possible advantage.View Deal

Don't buy it if...

You want a general use pair
The flat sound profile of the Sony Inzone E9 in-ear gaming headphones means that they’re not ideal for general use. At this price, there are loads of strong alternatives if you want something designed for a wider selection of genres with a microphone to help you chat with friends.

Also consider...

Not sure whether the Sony Inzone E9 in-ear gaming headphones are worth it for you? Check out these two compelling alternatives.

Sony Inzone E9

SteelSeries Arctis GameBuds

Sony Inzone Buds

Price

$149.99 / £129 / AU$209

$159.99 / £159.99 / AU$359

$199 / £179.99 / AU$249

Weight

0.16oz / 4.7g

0.19oz / 5.3g (each bud); 1.7oz / 48.7g (case)

0.2oz / 6.8g

Compatibility

PC, Xbox Series X and Series S, Xbox One, PS5, PS4, Nintendo Switch, Nintendo Switch 2, Mobile

GameBuds for PlayStation: PS5, PS4, Nintendo Switch, PC, Mac, Meta Quest 2/3, mobile; GameBuds for Xbox: Xbox Series X|S, Xbox One, PS5, PS4, Nintendo Switch, PC, Mac, Meta Quest 2/3

PS5, PS4, PC, Nintendo Switch, Mobile

Connection type

Wired (3.5mm / USB-C with audio box)

2.4Ghz (via USB-C), Bluetooth 5.3 (mobile)

2.4GHz wireless (via dongle), Bluetooth 5.3

Battery life

N/A

Up to 40 hours (buds 10 hours; case 30 hours)

Up to 24 hours (buds 12 hours; case 12 hours)

Features

USB-C audio box, spatial audio

360° Spatial Audio, Qi Wireless Charging Case, 6mm neodymium drivers, four-mic ANC, transparency mode, in-ear detection/sensor, IP55 rating, fast charge, companion app with more than 100 presets

360 spatial sound, optimization for your ear, tap controls. 8.4mm drivers, IPX4 waterproof

Software

Inzone Hub (PC)

Arctis Companion App (mobile), SteelSeries Sonar (PC)

Inzone Hub (PC)

SteelSeries Arctis GameBuds
The SteelSeries Arctis GameBuds are a brilliant all-rounder. They’re wireless, compatible with most platforms, and offer superb sound that can be fully customized to your liking. They have microphones for chatting, plus effective ANC built in.

For more information, check out our full SteelSeries Arctis GameBuds review

Sony Inzone Buds
If you’re shopping for something specifically in the Inzone product line but don’t care about competitive FPS games, then the more general Inzone Buds are a better pick. They offer spatial sound, ANC, and a low-latency wireless connection.

For more information, check out our full Sony Inzone Buds review

How I tested the Sony Inzone E9 in-ear gaming headphones

• Tested for nearly three months
• Used with a wide range of platforms
• Compared to lots of other products

I tested the Sony Inzone E9 in-ear gaming headphones over a period of roughly two and a half months. During that time, they were my primary gaming earbuds across all of my usual platforms. This included PS5, Xbox Series X, and PC.

I tried the earbuds with a wide selection of games, ranging from story-based titles such as Assassin’s Creed Shadows and Metal Gear Solid: Snake Eater to some of the most popular FPS games like Call of Duty: Black Ops 6, Black Ops 7, Valorant, and Counter-Strike 2.

Throughout my time with the earbuds, I compared their performance to my hands-on testing of a wide range of other gaming audio devices across the price spectrum.

Read more about how we test

First reviewed December-January 2026

I’ve reviewed over 50 desks in the last few years, and I have a pretty good feel for what not only makes for the best standing desks, but also what the standards are, what is consistent across brands, and what makes some stand out compared to others.

What I'm saying is, it’s not often that a desk’s differences stand out as easily as the Marinamantra Flow. Most noticeable is that the Flow allows you to use it while sitting on the floor, at standard sitting height, and while standing up. I can't think of many, if any, other desks that offer that right now (most I test are sitting or standing-only).

The Flow has been getting nearly daily use in my workspace for three months. In that time, I’ve used it for late-night working sessions, testing monitors, testing laptops, writing, coding, responding to emails, handling virtual meetings, building forts for my kids underneath, giving my children rides up and down the world's tamest rollercoaster, and more.

This is one of those desks that you want to use, one that you enjoy using, and almost feels fun every time you go to get started.

Marinamantra Flow: Price and availability

(Image credit: Collin Probst // Future )

The Marinamantra Flow is retailing for $1049 on the Marinamantra Flow website.

At the time of review, you can choose between a white or black frame, with a desktop size of 26 x 58in.

(Image credit: Collin Probst // Future )Marinamantra Flow: Unboxing and First Impressions

Again, I’ve done a good number of these now, but this desk was unique. The assembly wasn’t overly hard, but due to the unique design, the scissor legs, and the felt-covered undercarriage, this desk had a way of stamping itself on my memory.

The closest thing I can compare it to is the Lilipad standing desk. But where the Lillipad retracts so low is because it's designed to be stowed away after use, the primary reason the Flow reaches those low heights is to enable floor-sitting.

Unboxing and setting up was different than all the other desks I have set up, but not difficult. I just felt like, for the first time in a long time, like I was having to pay attention to the instructions rather than relying on past desk building experience.

Marinamantra sent all the proper tools, though I still used my Hoto electric screwdriver when I could just to help speed up the screwdriver process a little bit. The legs came connected together, so I simply had to get them connected in the proper location on the underside of the desk and then latch them in place.

Once I got everything attached, I added in the felt undercarriage and cabling, and then we were ready to flip over and get to work.

Marinamantra Flow: Design & Build Quality

(Image credit: Collin Probst // Future )

The felt cable tray is shockingly good. At first, I thought it was clunky and perhaps a gimmick. But once I got everything put together, I realized it was very helpful for keeping the built-in desk cables tucked away, leaving only what I add visible. If desired, and if I wanted to build out a more complex desk here, I could tuck more cables in that felt liner, though I’d want to take it off to make sure that I am not getting cables stuck in the tracks.

Speaking of cables, one thing this does right is that it has power through the leg. I’ve started to see desks do this now. The first one I noticed doing it was the Secretlab Magnus Pro. Since then, I’ve seen a few more taking that approach, helping with cable management, not having a cable dangling down from the top of the desk at whatever height it may be, all the way down to either outlet height or the floor. This seemingly small element really helps declutter the workspace.

I also like that there are two outlets on the desktop that run through the same power line that goes out of the base, plus the power for actually raising and lowering the desk, of course. Marinamantra chose to have one of those available outlets in the back of the desk, in the built-in cable tray, which is excellent, and another in the front, making it super easy for the user to power whatever they need.

At first, I wanted another outlet on the back of the desk, but after getting everything set up, I realized I wouldn’t even use it for my setup, and if I did need it, it's easy enough to add an additional power strip.

Marinamantra Flow: In use

(Image credit: Collin Probst // Future )Specs

Desktop size: 28 x 56in
Lifting capacity: 176lb / 80kg
Height range: 14.9 to 47in

I’ve had this desk on the second floor of my home for the last three months. I’ve used it for at least 5 days a week during that time, sometimes for many hours at a time.

Since assembling it, I’ve raised and lowered the desk an obnoxious number of times, I’ve used both power ports, I’ve run my forearm on the control panel and accidentally changed the height, and I’ve even caught my kids playing under the desk, treating it as a fort. So far, stability is solid, height adjustments are smooth, though there are some clicking sounds from the legs when adjusting, and the desk itself has held up well.

I’m 6’2”, so for me, having a desk that can reach my preferred standing height is not always possible. But the Marinamantra Flow can get my preferred height and drop all the way down to a great seated or floor-sitting height without any problem. It’s probably due to the scissor-leg style instead of the standard leg, but that comes with trade-offs as well.

I love how smooth it moves up and down, and the incredible range, dropping so low and also so high, but as a taller individual, having the legs cross right where my knees means I have to contort my legs around the scissor legs if I’m pulled all the way into the desk. The only spot I can kick my legs out is in the dead center, so using anything to rest my legs on would not work with this desk, nor would kicking my legs out with a chair that has a leg rest.

Speaking of the legs, another thing that I noticed, perhaps because I previously used the Lilipad desk, is that the caps on the legs are mediocre. I can tell that this is a first-generation desk from Marinamantra. However, with that being said, it’s a spectacular attempt at a new desk style in almost every way,

Back to the legs, the power inlay through the legs makes a bigger difference than I originally thought. I expected it to be helpful, but not a game-changer. But for this style desk, which, for me, has stayed relatively minimal and straightforward, I haven’t needed anything more than what has been given.

I have a simple, yet powerful setup. I have an Anker Prime Docking Station plugged into the power port on the back of the desk, with the dock sitting on the top left, plugged into that I have the power line that runs to my laptop, a USB-C desk lamp. I ran one to the right side where I plug in my iPad, hard drive, or iPhone, and that’s about it. I can plug in some other drives or accessories on the dock itself, but beyond that, I have intentionally kept it pretty clean and straightforward.

There's something about this desk that makes me want to keep it simple in the best way. The front power port has come in super handy for charging my chair (review coming soon), yes, you read that right, or for other miscellaneous things I need to charge or plug into power in this room.

Last but not least, I’ll talk a little bit about the control panel. It’s simple, it reminds me of Ergonofis, and it works pretty well. In fact, it may be a bit too sensitive. My wife bumped it a few times with her forearm while we wrapped presents on this desk, and it sprang into height-adjusting action.

Marinamantra Flow: Final verdict

(Image credit: Collin Probst // Future )

The Flow is a fantastic first-generation standing desk from Marinamantra, and it gets the fundamentals right. It’s designed to be minimalist, though it could be built out for more if you wanted, and it’s got a few great features up its sleeve that other desk companies could learn from.

If you are looking for a desk that can drop down to the ground, and then back up to meet the height of even some of the tallest people around, it's worth checking out.

Image 1 of 15

(Image credit: Collin Probst // Future )Image 2 of 15

(Image credit: Collin Probst // Future )Image 3 of 15

(Image credit: Collin Probst // Future )Image 4 of 15

(Image credit: Collin Probst // Future )Image 5 of 15

(Image credit: Collin Probst // Future )Image 6 of 15

(Image credit: Collin Probst // Future )Image 7 of 15

(Image credit: Collin Probst // Future )Image 8 of 15

(Image credit: Collin Probst // Future )Image 9 of 15

(Image credit: Collin Probst // Future )Image 10 of 15

(Image credit: Collin Probst // Future )Image 11 of 15

(Image credit: Collin Probst // Future )Image 12 of 15

(Image credit: Collin Probst // Future )Image 13 of 15

(Image credit: Collin Probst // Future )Image 14 of 15

(Image credit: Collin Probst // Future )Image 15 of 15

(Image credit: Collin Probst // Future )

For more office furniture, check out our guide to the best office chairs we've tested.

Star Wars Outlaws Gold Edition is an excellent version of the 2024 open-world Star Wars game. It runs incredibly well overall, with a frame rate that rarely dips below its 30 frames per second (fps) target while also pushing some impressive ray tracing effects. It might just be the best Nintendo Switch 2 port that we’ve seen yet, especially considering the fact that the original release would sometimes stutter on more powerful hardware like the PlayStation 5.

Review info

Platform reviewed: Nintendo Switch 2
Available on: Nintendo Switch 2, PS5, Xbox Series X and Series S, PC
Release date: September 4, 2025 (Nintendo Switch 2)

The value proposition of this version is also off the charts. Rather than its usual Standard Edition, Deluxe Edition, Gold Edition, and Ultimate Edition release strategy, Ubisoft has opted to include all the Gold Edition content out of the gate for anyone buying on Nintendo Switch 2.

This means you get the full season pass with two substantial new story chapters that take a total of about 10 hours to beat. Oodles of cosmetics for protagonist Kay Vess and her companion Nix are also included, plus the short pre-order bonus Jabba’s Gambit mission.

While I could lament the fact that the handful of cosmetics from the Ultimate Pack haven’t been thrown in too (though they are still purchasable separately via the eShop if you want them), this is still an incredible amount of content that encompasses all the major DLC additions since launch.

It’s an easy sell at the asking price of $59.99 / £49.99 / AU$89.95 (or even less on sale) when you consider that the Gold Edition costs $109.99 / £104.99 / AU$169.95 on other platforms.

I find your lack of faith… disturbing

(Image credit: Ubisoft)

Everything we loved in our original Star Wars Outlaws review rings true for this newer version.

If you’re a fan of the Star Wars universe, then you’re going to love the peerless faithfulness of this adaptation. As an intergalactic rogue forced to go on the run after a heist gone wrong, you explore a series of large open-world planets as you gradually put together a crew and navigate relationships with some of the galaxy’s most notorious criminal clans.

Set between The Empire Strikes Back and Return of the Jedi films, familiar locations like the desert plains of Tatooine are wonderfully represented and seamlessly presented alongside new additions like the sandy Toshara Moon or dense jungle world of Akiva.

Best bit

(Image credit: Ubisoft)

The five planets of Star Wars Outlaws are all a fan’s dream. It includes the perfect mix of nostalgic favorites like Tatooine alongside some more interesting and beautiful inclusions like the snowy world of Kijimi.

Everywhere you explore looks superb on Nintendo Switch 2, especially in handheld mode. On the console’s 1080p screen, it appears delightfully crisp and, although the quality of 3D models does take a small hit, the overall experience feels about on par with that of an Xbox Series S, which is a very impressive result.

In some regards, it actually looks better here than on the Series S, with improved ray-tracing effects in interior environments. Wandering around the densely populated city of Mirogana early in the game, the lighting effects appear rich and complex. Locations are crafted with a high level of detail throughout the game, and I’m glad that the enjoyment of occasionally stopping to soak it all in and pore over every small element of a space hasn’t been lost in the jump over to less talented hardware.

Things do fare a little worse when the system is docked, though. Playing on a 4K TV, I noticed upscaling was used very liberally, which lends certain areas quite a blurry look. Anywhere with lots of plants, for example, tends to look rather fuzzy, and Kay’s hair suffers from some noticeable aliasing. The pop-in in the open world becomes more noticeable in docked mode, too. When you’re zooming around on your speeder, you’ll regularly see little bushes or shadows appearing in the distance - but you get used to this very quickly.

More powerful than you could possibly imagine

(Image credit: Ubisoft)

If you’ve experienced Star Wars Outlaws on another platform, then you’ll also need to acclimatize to the frame rate when jumping over to the Nintendo Switch 2 version. It's locked to 30fps here, a change that was especially noticeable as I compared the game with its PS5 port side by side.

When you’re actually playing, it is less apparent, though, and developers Massive Entertainment do deserve some serious credit when it comes to just how well Star Wars Outlaws Gold Edition maintains that frame rate target.

(Image credit: Ubisoft)

Stutters are extremely rare, and I only noticed them starting to crop up in moments of very intense action with multiple explosions, many enemies on screen, moving vehicles, and the like, all at once. Importantly, the experience is never rendered unplayable, and I think the odd hiccup is a worthwhile trade-off for the opportunity to dip in and out of this game on the go.

I’ve been playing Star Wars Outlaws Gold Edition sporadically since it launched back in September, and I did initially experience a few unexpected crashes in longer play sessions. With time, these seem to have been remedied through various patches, though, so those jumping in today can expect a relatively flawless experience.

With all of this said, Star Wars Outlaws Gold Edition nets an easy recommendation as one of the best Nintendo Switch 2 games. If you’ve played it before, it’s a joy to re-experience in handheld mode with all the new DLC included. If you’re a newcomer, then you don’t need to worry about suffering a compromised experience due to your choice of hardware.

Should I play Star Wars Outlaws Gold Edition on Nintendo Switch 2?Play it if...

You want a huge open-world experience on the go
Star Wars Outlaws Gold Edition offers tens of hours of content that’s wonderful to dip into on the go. With all major DLC included, this is an experience that you’re going to keep coming back to.

You’re a big Star Wars fan
Fans of the Star Wars universe will love the attention to detail of Star Wars Outlaws, all of which has been preserved wonderfully in this brilliant port.

Don't play it if...

You’re sick of open-world games
I enjoy Star Wars Outlaws, but it certainly doesn't reinvent the wheel in terms of Ubisoft open-world games. If you want a more novel experience, pick up something else from the Nintendo Switch 2’s expansive library, like Mario Kart World.

Accessibility features

Star Wars Outlaws Gold Edition has a dedicated accessibility menu on Nintendo Switch 2 with a number of useful settings and presets.

By default, the HUD has been scaled up to 150% in handheld mode, with large text size enabled.

There are also four menus designed to address gameplay, cognitive, color, vision, and hearing needs. Color settings can be fully customized, and there is a range of difficulty options.

How I reviewed Star Wars Outlaws Gold Edition on Nintendo Switch 2

I played nearly 15 hours of Star Wars Outlaws Gold Edition on Nintendo Switch 2, constantly comparing my experience of the game with that of the PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X and Series S versions.

I primarily played in the console’s handheld mode, but also endeavored to spend a few hours in docked mode in order to assess its performance.

Of the two modes, handheld mode is definitely the strongest as the smaller screen does a good job of smoothing over many of the visual cutbacks. While playing in docked mode, I relied on the official Nintendo Switch 2 Pro Controller.

First reviewed January 2026

Canon EOS R6 Mark III: two-minute review

The Canon R6 Mark III is the brand's latest enthusiast-level hybrid camera, and successor to one of Canon's most popular models. It's perhaps the clearest expression of a 'hybrid' Canon camera yet within its price range, with a fresh 33MP sensor that not only offers a significant bump in resolution (from 24MP), but a host of new video features such as 7K open-gate.

Outwardly, you could be mistaken in thinking that the Mark III offers a relatively iterative upgrade versus the previous generation. The overall design of the camera is essentially identical. Under the hood, however, subtle tweaks and improvements provide an upgrade that's bigger than the sum of its parts.

Everything is just a little bit better with the Mark III. You get a nice bump in resolution, a massively expanded video tool-kit, and useful autofocus features from the higher-end bodies like Priority People Detect. Even minor annoyances like video white balance have been smoothed out. Overall, it's an incredibly refined and well-designed camera that simply just works without any fuss. That's high praise, indeed.

(Image credit: Future / Alex Whitelock)

In real-world testing, the R6 Mark III is also a stunning stills and video camera, capable of producing superb results in both fields. In a field where competitors are eager to champion stacked BSI sensors, the Mark III proves that you need neither to achieve great performance. Images are detailed with great dynamic range and flexibility, and you still get an impressive 40fps burst rate, despite the significant jump in resolution.

Perhaps the biggest stumbling block for the R6 III isn’t necessarily the camera itself, but the increasingly competitive field it sits within. Rival brands are not only producing exceptional cameras currently, but they do so on democratized and open lens mounts.

For example, the Nikon Z6 III undercuts the R6 on price, the Panasonic S1 II features more powerful video tools, and the Sony A7 V falls back on its vast lens ecosystem. In comparison, the R6 III looks like the jack of trades - a safe, if somewhat unexciting pick in the best mirrorless cameras landscape.

Those already faithful to the Canon RF-Mount will be overjoyed with this camera, however. As previously stated, there's a refined assuredness to the R6 Mark III that makes it a reliable hybrid workhorse. Regardless of whether you're a professional wedding photographer, amateur videographer, or even a serious beginner, it's hard not to recommend the R6 Mark III because of its compelling mix of usability, image quality, and value. Yes, it's pricier than the Mark II, but considering the new sensor (and inflation), you definitely get a good amount of camera for the money here.

Canon EOS R6 Mark III specsCanon EOS R6 Mark III specs

Type:

Mirrorless camera

Sensor:

Full-frame (36x24mm) FSI CMOS

LCD:

3-inch, fully-articulated, 1.62M dots

Memory:

1x UHS-II SD, 1x CFexpress Type B

Resolution:

32.5-megapixels

Video:

Up to 7K30p (open gate)

ISO range:

ISO 50-102,400

Mechanical Shutter speeds:

30-1/8000sec

Electronic Shutter speeds:

30-1/16000sec

Viewfinder:

3.69M dot, OLED EVF, 0.76x

Processor:

DIGIC X

Connectivity:

WiFi, Bluetooth, USB-C, HDMI, audio, mic

Weight:

609g

Canon EOS R6 Mark III: Price and availability

• Announced November 6th, 2025
• Body only price of $2,799 / £2,799.99 / AU$4199.95
• Kit options available, including RF 24-105mm f4 L IS

The R6 Mark III retails for $2,799 / £2,799.99 / AU$4199.95, which makes it pricier than the previous iteration by a few hundred dollars / pounds. Interestingly, the EOS R6 II isn’t being discontinued (at least, immediately), and instead will be available for a list price of 1,979 / £1,918 / AU$3,099.

The Mark III is essentially slotting in the market between its two major competitors - the Sony A7 V for $2900 / £2800 and the Nikon Z6 III for $2700 / £2500. Of the three, however, it’s worth noting that the Z6 III has been on the market for the longest time and tends to be particularly partial to price cuts. You’ll likely have to wait a while to find an R6 Mark III or Sony A7 V for anywhere near as cheap as Nikon's alternative.

• Price score: 4/5

Canon EOS R6 Mark III: Design

• New CF-Express Type B card slot
• 3.69M dot 120Hz OLED EVF
• 3.0-inch 1.62M dot panel articulating rear display

What can I say about the design of the R6 Mark III? Well, it’s typical Canon, in the most refined and best manner possible. If you’re familiar with the Mark II, the design is essentially identical, with only a few minor tweaks to the buttons surrounding the shutter, a new tally light, and revisions to the mode dial.

Is it boring? Well, it’s certainly sensible. All of the camera’s main functions are laid out in a purposeful and meticulous manner. The thumb, for example, naturally rests next to the back-button focus, an AF joystick, and an autofocus mode quick select. On the top, you have the typical three-way on-off switch, top-mounted dial, and extremely useful M-Fn quick dial menu that are again extremely easy to operate.

All of the above, of course, are fully mappable with the camera’s extensive customization options. A total of nine buttons are fully mapable, so you have plenty of options here for both video and photo applications.

Image 1 of 3

The camera is made of a sturdy polymer outer shell with environmental weather sealing (Image credit: Future / Alex Whitelock)Image 2 of 3

The R6 Mark III has a protective shutter to keep the sensor clean when no lens is mounted. (Image credit: Future / Alex Whitelock)Image 3 of 3

The camera retains the classic Canon button control layout (Image credit: Future / Alex Whitelock)

If you’re already a Canon shooter, no doubt you’ll be right at home here. My only minor criticism is that I wish Canon would add a second ring/middle finger button on the front of the body next to the grip. It’s something that’s featured on the higher-end Canon bodies, but it’s conspicuously missing from the R6 and R5 line. With such expansive customization features, it would be a fantastic addition to the body in my opinion.

In the hand, the R6 Mark III is sturdy and solid, with a generous grip that pairs well with popular lenses like the 24-70mm f/2.8. As part of the review process, Canon also sent me the EOS R8, and in comparison to the lower-end model, the R6 Mark III is much better suited to the chunkier RF glass. Unlike the feather-weight R8, the R6 Mark III balances well with fast primes like the 20mm f/1.4 and 85mm f/1.4 - both of which are noticeably front-heavy on the entry-level model.

Image 1 of 2

The Canon R6 Mark III next to the Mark II (Image credit: Future / Alex Whitelock)Image 2 of 2

The cameras are almost identical, with the only changes being to button graphics, the mode dial, and the addition of a tally light. (Image credit: Future / Alex Whitelock)

In terms of viewfinder and display, you get a 3.69M dot 120Hz OLED and 3-inch 1.62M dot panel respectively; both of which are holdovers from the previous model. The R6's displays are bright, relatively wide, and easy to use. No complaints here, although it's worth noting that both the Nikon Z6 III and Sony A7 V do have a slight edge over the R6. In the case of the Nikon, you get a higher-res 5.76M dot EVF, while the Sony A7 V features a 2.1M dot rear display that both articulates and tilts - a handy feature for both stills and video.

For ports, one of the main changes from the second-generation model is that the Mark III now features one CFexpress Type B slot and one UHS-II SD instead of two of the latter. Upgrading to a CFexpress card will incur a slight cost, but you’re going to need it if you want to record Raw video internally or make full use of the uncapped 40fps burst rate. Videographers will also be pleased to note that the Mark III now features a full-size HDMI port rather than the MicroHDMI on the previous iteration.

Image 1 of 3

The R6 Mark III now features a CF-Express Type B card slot (Image credit: Future / Alex Whitelock)Image 2 of 3

Support for full-size HDMI (Image credit: Future / Alex Whitelock)Image 3 of 3

Fully articulating 3-inch rear display (Image credit: Future / Alex Whitelock)

The R6 Mark III now utilizes the newer LP-E6P battery from the R5 Mark II. The older LP-E6NH batteries are still technically supported, but you'll need to use the newer iteration to fully unlock all the R6 Mark III's features. In this case, smartphone connectivity and the full array of 6K open-gate video modes.

Note that the R6 Mark III's battery is rated for 270 shots with the viewfinder and 510 with the rear screen. On paper, that's significantly lower than the Sony Alpha A7 V's rating of 630 / 750 shots respectively. I wouldn't say battery life is particularly poor, however. In real-world testing, I found the battery life to be far better than the ratings would suggest, with more than enough juice for a full day of stills photography. Videographers may want to pack a second battery just in case, though.

• Design score: 5/5

Canon EOS R6 Mark III: Performance and features

• Reliable autofocus for stills and video
• Registered People Priority mode
• 7K footage at 30p ‘open-gate’

The R6 Mark III is interesting in that it lacks a few of the high-end features from the R5 II like the ability to control the focus point with your eye, in-camera 'AI' upscaling, and Action Priority modes. What it does offer, however, is rock-solid performance for a vast range of both photo and stills applications.

As the ‘enthusiast’ level body in the range, the R6 has a lot of ground to cover, but it essentially achieves the mark on all counts. Using the camera, is again, a very refined experience in terms of operation and ease-of-use.

For example, the R6’s autofocus performance is accurate and reliable even with fully automated operation. A simple press of the ‘set’ button will engage subject tracking, which is easily one of the ‘stickiest’ I’ve ever used on a camera. Even without the advanced bells and whistles of the R5, the R6 Mark III is exceptional at both subject tracking and detection.

There were only a few rare occasions when the autofocus missed the mark. For example, a case in a relatively dimly-lit room where the camera failed to focus on my parents’ cat’s eyes. This subject, with his black coat, is notoriously difficult to photograph. Even specifically engaging the R6 MIII’s animal detection mode gave me a few examples where the camera focused on his ears or whiskers rather than his eyes.

Another extreme example was a moving human target in a low-light situation. Even with a high-contrast backlit scene the camera slightly missed the mark when shooting with a 20mm prime fully wide open at f/1.4.

Image 1 of 3

The R6 Mark III slightly forward-focused in this extreme low-light scene at f/1.4. (Image credit: Future / Alex Whitelock)Image 2 of 3

The camera ever-so-slightly missed focus on the cat's eye in this scene at f/2.8, instead focusing on the ear. (Image credit: Future / Alex Whitelock)Image 3 of 3

The camera still maintained an impressive hit rate, however. This is the next frame in the series and it's in focus. (Image credit: Future / Alex Whitelock)

Are these fair use cases? Well, certainly they are extreme situations where any camera would be tested. By most accounts, the R6 Mark III’s autofocus is still one of the best I’ve ever used on any camera.

We’re reaching a point now where all major camera brands have excellent out-of-the-box autofocus performance on reasonably priced bodies, but Canon does still have a few unique tricks. The Registered People Priority mode, for example, is the closest thing to a 'killer-app' I've seen on an enthusiast-level camera.

As a brief overview, this feature allows you to map autofocus tracking to specific faces, with the idea that the camera will prioritize them even in crowded scenarios. If you have a reference shot like a group headshot, then the camera detects and allows you to pick a specific face via the RPP mode.

During my testing, I didn't have a scenario where I could really stress-test this feature with large groups. In small groups of two to three people, however, the tracking was reliable. Overall, the Registered People Priority mode definitely has the potential to be a useful feature for certain scenarios, like event or wedding photography.

Canon EOS R6 Mark III video modes

Aspect / Mode

Dimensions

Frame rates

3:2 / 7K RAW

6960 x 4640

30, 25, 24, 23.98

3:2 / 7K Compressed

6912 x 4608

30, 25, 24, 23.98

1.89:1 / 7K

6960 x 3672

60, 50, 48, 30, 25, 24, 23.98

1.89:1 / DCI 4K

4096 x 2160

120, 100, 60, 50, 48, 30, 25, 24, 23.98

1.89:1 / DCI 2K

2048 x 1080

180, 150, 120, 100, 60, 50, 48, 30, 25, 24, 23.98

16:9 / UHD 4K

3840 x 2160

120, 100, 60, 50, 48, 30, 25, 24, 23.98

16:9 / Full HD

1920 x 1080

180, 150, 120, 100, 60, 50, 48, 30, 25, 24, 23.98

In terms of video, the R6 Mark III features an impressive array of recording options. There's not only the option for oversampled 4K up to 120p, but 7K footage at 30p ‘open-gate’ on the camera’s native 3:2 aspect ratio. For maximum post-production flexibility, there’s the option to shoot in Canon’s proprietary Cinema Raw format or the brand’s Clog 2 or Clog 3 profiles.

If all these features look familiar, it’s because the R6 Mark III shares the same sensor and bones as the Canon EOS C50. Unlike its video-centric sibling, however, the R6 doesn’t feature an in-built fan, so you will face restricted recording times for the heavier open-gate and 7K capture modes. That's also a key advantage of the rival Panasonic S1 II, alongside support for 120p at 4K.

One other upgrade for the Mark III is the camera’s overall burst-rate performance. While the camera lacks the Action Priority autofocus mode from the higher-end Canon bodies, it manages to retain the 12fps mechanical / 40fps e-shutter burst rates from the previous model despite the significant jump in resolution. You’ve still got the helpful inclusion of pre-burst capture here, but unlike the Mark II, the III doesn’t feature a standalone “Raw Burst mode” to enable it. It’s instead now integrated into the standard drive mode menu.

• Performance score: 5/5

Canon EOS R6 Mark III: Image quality

• 33MP resolution (up from 24MP)
• Pleasing, warm colors
• Sharp video with flexible profiles

The Canon R6 Mark III is somewhat unusual in its peer group in that its sensor is neither back-side-illuminated nor ‘stacked’ like rivals from Sony or Nikon. It's an interesting distinction because rivals have long trumpeted the various advantages of these additions in a world where sensor development has seemingly slowed in recent years.

On paper, a stacked sensor does enable faster readout speeds, whereas a back-side-illuminated sensor should, in theory, give you cleaner images at high ISO. Recent testing has even proven that the Sony A7 V and Panasonic S1 II have slightly better ISO invariance than the Canon R6 Mark III thanks to dual-gain readouts.

So, does the Mark III lag behind the competition in terms of image quality? I'd have a hard time believing so. Based on real-world testing, I've found the camera to produce consistently excellent stills.

Out in the wild, I imagine the differences between all of these cameras is likely to be so minimal that you'd almost certainly not notice outside of incredibly niche use cases. It certainly shouldn't be the main deciding factor behind these cameras; ergonomics, video features, and available lenses are all much more important.

Image 1 of 4

Original shot, RAW, shot with the RF 24-70mm f/2.8 (Image credit: Future / Alex Whitelock)Image 2 of 4

Same scene, shadows lifted to taste in Adobe Lightroom (Image credit: Future / Alex Whitelock)Image 3 of 4

Another RAW example taken with the same 24-70mm f/2.8 lens (Image credit: Future / Alex Whitelock)Image 4 of 4

Same scene, shadows lifted to taste in Adobe Lightroom (Image credit: Future / Alex Whitelock)

In terms of dynamic range, for example, you have heaps to work with here. Despite the significant increase in resolution from the previous iteration, the R6 Mark III produces lovely, clean RAW files (and even JPEGs) with ample headroom.

On several test shots, I was able to salvage significant details from a scene without much color cast or noise. Zooming in, noise is certainly still present, but it's relatively well controlled and very much in line with other modern full-frame bodies.

In low light the R6 Mark III handles exceptionally well, too. I shot a few hundred images in a local indoor amusement park that features a host of strobe and fluorescent lighting. It's the kind of environment that not only tests autofocus to the extreme, but often results in strange colors that are a nightmare to post-process.

When I pull up the files from the R6 Mark III, colors are well captured, even at ISO 10,000 and over. The first example in the gallery below was shot at that ISO, and the colors are absolutely spot-on for the scene, despite there being noise present in some of the shadows. Again, the R6 Mark III is an extremely capable stills camera in real-world testing.

Image 1 of 6

RAW sample shot, ISO 10,000, taken with RF 20mm f/1.4 (Image credit: Future / Alex Whitelock)Image 2 of 6

RAW sample shot, ISO 1,250, taken with RF 20mm f/1.4 (Image credit: Future / Alex Whitelock)Image 3 of 6

RAW sample shot, ISO 320, taken with RF 20mm f/1.4 (Image credit: Future / Alex Whitelock)Image 4 of 6

RAW sample shot, ISO 640, taken with RF 20mm f/1.4 (Image credit: Future / Alex Whitelock)Image 5 of 6

RAW sample shot, ISO 200, taken with RF 20mm f/1.4 (Image credit: Future / Alex Whitelock)Image 6 of 6

RAW sample shot, ISO 1,600, taken with RF 20mm f/1.4 (Image credit: Future / Alex Whitelock)

Briefly touching on resolution; the upgrade from 24MP to 33MP does give you a nice bump in cropping potential without resulting in massive file sizes. Arguably, 24MP is still more than enough for most use cases, but 33MP is definitely a 'nice to have'. I certainly appreciated the little bit extra when cropping all the sample images on this page from the camera's native 3:2 to a web-friendly 16:9 format.

Colors are gorgeous, too. Even with RAW files, the images have a pleasing warmth to them without being overbearing. Skin tones look great straight from the camera, and in all cases, the files were great to work on in Adobe Lightroom.

In the gallery below, you can see a selection of RAW files. The opening shots are tweaked in Lightroom to my own tastes, whereas the following portrait shots show you both RAW files and a few of the camera's built-in JPEG profiles.

Image 1 of 10

RAW edited to taste in Lightroom, taken with RF 24-70mm f/2.8 (Image credit: Future / Alex Whitelock)Image 2 of 10

RAW edited to taste in Lightroom, taken with RF 24-70mm f/2.8 (Image credit: Future / Alex Whitelock)Image 3 of 10

RAW edited to taste in Lightroom, taken with RF 24-70mm f/2.8 (Image credit: Future / Alex Whitelock)Image 4 of 10

RAW edited to taste in Lightroom, taken with RF 24-70mm f/2.8 (Image credit: Future / Alex Whitelock)Image 5 of 10

RAW edited to taste in Lightroom, taken with RF 24-70mm f/2.8 (Image credit: Future / Alex Whitelock)Image 6 of 10

RAW edited to taste in Lightroom, taken with RF 24-70mm f/2.8 (Image credit: Future / Alex Whitelock)Image 7 of 10

RAW edited to taste in Lightroom, taken with RF 24-70mm f/2.8 (Image credit: Future / Alex Whitelock)Image 8 of 10

An example of a RAW file from a studio scene, taken with the RF 24-70mm f/2.8 (Image credit: Future / Alex Whitelock)Image 9 of 10

An example of a RAW file, next to the camera's 'Vivid' and 'Warm' JPEG profiles (Image credit: Future / Alex Whitelock)Image 10 of 10

Examples of the camera's black-and-white, 'Vivid', and 'Warm' JPEG profiles (Image credit: Future / Alex Whitelock)

For video, you have a flexible set-up thanks to the R6 Mark III's myriad record modes and support for Clog2 and Clog3 formats. Of the two, the former gets you a flatter image with the most dynamic range possible for color grading, while the latter offers a more saturated and clean image for quick and easy editing. In either case, you can upload your own LUTs to the camera, and white balance can also be set in video mode, which was a common annoyance with the previous model.

As you'd imagine with a body that shares the same sensor as the Canon EOS C50, the R6 Mark III captures excellent footage. In my testing, I mostly used Canon's proprietary Canon 709 standard color profile (non-flattened), and the 4K footage in particular was fantastic. Colors were rich but true-to-life, the image was detailed, and there was plenty of dynamic range.

For an easy video workflow, there is very little to fault the R6 Mark III on. Even if you're a video-heavy hybrid shooter, don't overlook the Mark III in favor of the C50. You get a great video toolkit here with the added benefit of image stabilization and a mechanical shutter for stills.

• Image quality score: 4.5/5

Canon EOS R6 Mark III: testing scorecard Canon EOS R6 Mark III

Attributes

Notes

Rating

Price

The R6 Mark III is well priced considering the level of performance. That said, it is pricier than the previous iteration, and it sits within a competitive field.

4/5

Design

The R6 Mark III is almost identical to the previous iteration. It's a super design, however, with fantastic ergonomics and customization.

5/5

Performance

Autofocus is superb for both stills and video. IBIS works admirably. Registered People Priority is a genuinely useful feature.

5/5

Image quality

Great straight-out-of-camera files for both stills and video. Flexible RAWs, and a huge array of video formats for both casual and professional use.

4.5/5

Should I buy the Canon EOS R6 Mark III?Buy it if...

You're already invested in the Canon RF mount

Those already invested in the eco-system will absolutely love the R6 Mark III. It sits in a competitive field, but if you already have plenty of RF glass, then you're getting a lot of camera for your money here.View Deal

You shoot stills, with a bit of video

The Canon R6 Mark III is perfect if you're primarily a photographer but also need an easy video workflow. You get everything you need here for excellent results.View Deal

Don't buy it if...

You need advanced video options

With that said, if you're primarily a videographer, you may want to consider the Canon EOS R50 or Panasonic S1 II. Both include longer recording times thanks to internal fans. View Deal

You're on a budget

If you need a powerful hybrid camera but want to save some cash, there are strong rival options right now. The Nikon Z6 III, for example, undercuts the R6 Mark III on price. Even the older R6 Mark II is still available and offers a viable alternative without the newer bells and whistles.View Deal

Also consider Sony A7 V

As if on cue, Sony released the Alpha A7 V just one month after the R6 Mark III. In comparison, the A7 V is a little pricier than the R6 and doesn't have options for open gate video. It does, however, have a much more diverse lens ecosystem and innovative dual-gain ISO read-out thanks to its partially stacked sensor, which gives a slight edge in stills dynamic range.

Read our in-depth Sony A7 V review

Nikon Z6 III

Nikon's all-rounder, the Z6 III also features a partially stacked sensor, but with a resolution of just 24MP. That said, video recording is up to 6K 60p, and the Z6 III is blazing fast, also being supported by powerful in-body image stabilization. Launched in July 2024, it has come down in price and can be had for much less than the Canon EOS R6 Mark III.

Read our in-depth Nikon Z6 III review

How I tested the Canon EOS R6 Mark III

• I tested a full production model
• I used several lenses, including the RF 24-105mm f/4 kit lens
• Samples were shot in a diverse range of environments, including low light
• Subject detection was tested using real-world situations

Canon loaned me the R6 Mark III alongside the R8, R6 Mark II, and several lenses for an extensive three-week period. In that time, I was fully able to test the camera in a range of scenarios for both stills and video.

As an overview, the lenses used include the RF 20mm f/1.4, the RF 85mm f/1.4, the RF 24-70mm f/2.8L, and the RF 24-105mm f/4 - the latter of which is available as a kit lens for the R6 III. All of the above image samples on this page were taken with these lenses in various scenarios, including both mid-day and difficult low-light environments.

• First reviewed December 2025

Leica Q3 Monochrom: two-minute review

Money no object, I'd probably pick the Leica Q3 as my favorite compact camera. It's a fabulous 61MP full-frame camera with an extremely sharp, fixed 28mm f/1.7 wide-angle lens, and the ultimate everyday carry.

I'm also partial to black-and-white photography, especially on sunny days when light and shade are the stars of the show. So it was a delight to kick off 2026 by getting out and about on frosty mornings in the UK, with the low-lying sun illuminating my surroundings and the Leica Q3 Monochrom in my hand – it's identical to the original Q3 in practically every way, except that it only shoots in monochrome.

This camera is as niche as they come, and for many it also begs the question: why would you pick a camera that only takes black-and-white images when you can simply select a black-and-white color profile in a regular camera, like the original Q3, which also shoots in color when you want to? Why restrict yourself? That was the focus of my testing over the course of three weeks with the Q3 Monochrom.

Image 1 of 2

(Image credit: Tim Coleman)Image 2 of 2

(Image credit: Tim Coleman)

For me, the reasons I would opt for a camera like this are twofold – one technical, and one creative. The creative reason is simple: its restricted parameters. I can't switch to color. I'm seeing the real-time image in black and white, and it helps me to truly appreciate light and shade, form and composition.

Shooting in black-and-white can be a great exercise to help you elevate the quality of your photography in general, should you bring color into the equation at other times. You can, however, get this experience with a 'regular' camera by using a black-and-white color profile, so that by itself is not enough reason. The second technical reason is, though – and that's increased light sensitivity.

In simple terms, all sensors in digital cameras see in black and white. To produce color images, a color filter array is placed in front of the sensor, the most common of which is the Bayer pattern with red, green and blue pixels (RGB – with twice the number of green pixels).

The drawback is that a color filter array reduces light sensitivity, leading to an increase in noise and decreased sharpness. In short, it reduces image quality by a small amount, which is seen more clearly in challenging light conditions.

So – and particularly if you mostly like to shoot black-and-white images anyway – a color filter is more of a hinderance than a help. With those image quality drawbacks, it's like watering down juice when you could otherwise enjoy the full flavor straight from the source.

A monochrome-only digital camera offers the purest form of black-and-white photography you'll get from a digital camera; and from my experience with the Q3 Monochrom, there's something a little extra about the quality of the black-and-white images it produces. A subtle improvement, a pleasing grain rather than noise, and filmic quality. Highlight clipping is, however, a major drawback to this kind of sensor.

Yes, the Leica Q3 monochrom is as niche as they come, and it costs a pretty penny too at $7,790 / £5,800 / AU$12,090. But, if you love black-and-white photography, it's the ultimate everyday carry, and one of the best compact cameras around.

(Image credit: Tim Coleman)Leica Q3 Monochrom: price and availability

• Announced on November 20, 2025 and available now
• Priced from $7,790 / £5,800 / AU$12,090

Leica unveiled the Q3 Monochrom in November 2025 and it went on sale immediately, costing $7,790 / £5,800 / AU$12,090. That's a mark-up of about 5% over the Q3, which was launched in 2023.

The Q3-series models use the same BP-SCL6 battery, while Leica sells a variety of accessories at its online store, including a leather half case, thumb supports, and carrying straps.

Leica Q3 Monochrom: specsLeica Q3 Monochrom Specs

Sensor

Stabilized, full-frame

Resolution

61MP

Video

8K

Lens

28mm f/2.8-16

Screen

3.0-inch, 1.84m-dot tilt

Viewfinder

5.76m-dot

Dimensions

130 x 80.3 x 92.6mm

Weight

746g / 662g (with / without battery)

Battery life

300 shots (approx)

Memory

SD (UHS-II)

Leica Q3 Monochrom: design

• Same design as the Q3, save for Monochrom logo
• Divine lens quality and handling
• Awkward tilt touchscreen

The Q3 Monochrom essentially has the same premium, minimalist design as the original Q3, save for its suitably monochromatic logo. That means it operates in exactly the same way as the original model, for good and for bad.

The 28mm lens is the star of the show, not only in terms of the images it produces, but because of how it handles; it's equipped with decent autofocus, but is designed in a way to please manual-focus fans, with autofocus activated via a well-hidden button on the manual-focus ring.

It also looks just like a manual-focus-only lens. There are focus distance markings, and a macro mode that's activated by turning a dial which reveals new focus distance markings – a design masterstroke.

Image 1 of 4

(Image credit: Tim Coleman)Image 2 of 4

(Image credit: Tim Coleman)Image 3 of 4

(Image credit: Tim Coleman)Image 4 of 4

(Image credit: Tim Coleman)

Other design features are the same, too. We have a decent 5.76m-dot viewfinder, plus a crisp 1.84m-dot tilt touchscreen. I'm not a fan of the tilt design, though – it protrudes from the back of the camera and it's awkward to grip and pull out for waist-level shooting. For the next Q installment, Leica should take notes from Fujifilm and others.

Every touch screams premium quality, from the knurled control dials with just the right amount of resistance, to the pop-out battery and the viewfinder's pop-out diopter adjustment. The memory card door design could do with a little tweaking because it feels like one weak point, but quality-wise I can't otherwise fault the Q3 Monochrom.

Image 1 of 6

(Image credit: Tim Coleman)Image 2 of 6

(Image credit: Tim Coleman)Image 3 of 6

(Image credit: Tim Coleman)Image 4 of 6

(Image credit: Tim Coleman)Image 5 of 6

(Image credit: Tim Coleman)Image 6 of 6

(Image credit: Tim Coleman)

For a deeper dive into the design of the Leica Q3 Monochrom, check out my Leica Q3 review.

Leica Q3 Monochrom: features and performance

• High-resolution 61MP sensor with digital crop modes
• Reasonable autofocus performance and precise manual focus
• Average battery life

There's no change from the original Q3 regarding features or performance, either, save for the monochrome-only images, which is what I'll double down on in this section.

To summarize the other aspects first, the Q3 Monochrom's startup time is rapid, battery life is average at best, autofocus accuracy and speed are good, while in-body image stabilization performance is only okay, but certainly welcome in a camera capable of capturing such high-resolution photos.

And with 61MP to play with there's huge scope for cropping into images to emulate the look of tighter lenses – a feature that can be accessed directly using one of the two buttons above the LCD screen (the gallery below shows a selection of digitally cropped images using the maximum in-camera crop setting, then the full un-cropped version for comparison). The other button above the LCD switches from stills to video, with 8K video recording once again present.

Image 1 of 8

(Image credit: Tim Coleman)Image 2 of 8

(Image credit: Tim Coleman)Image 3 of 8

(Image credit: Tim Coleman)Image 4 of 8

(Image credit: Tim Coleman)Image 5 of 8

(Image credit: Tim Coleman)Image 6 of 8

(Image credit: Tim Coleman)Image 7 of 8

(Image credit: Tim Coleman)Image 8 of 8

(Image credit: Tim Coleman)

The macro setting of the lens reduces its close-focusing distance, making it possible to capture flowers and other small subjects in exquisite detail – that's another string to the bow of the Q3 series (see the gallery directly below).

I also love how the maximum aperture of the lens is nice and bright at f/1.7. Pair that with the image stabilization, and Q3 cameras feel more versatile overall than the stunning Fujifilm GFX100RF, even if that camera has an even sharper lens – check out my Q3 vs GFX100RF real-world test to see how those premium compacts compare.

The 28mm lens also produces some of the crispest sunstars I've seen (check out the backlit tree image two galleries down); again, for more details, check out the Q3 review.

Image 1 of 7

(Image credit: Tim Coleman)Image 2 of 7

(Image credit: Tim Coleman)Image 3 of 7

(Image credit: Tim Coleman)Image 4 of 7

(Image credit: Tim Coleman)Image 5 of 7

(Image credit: Tim Coleman)Image 6 of 7

(Image credit: Tim Coleman)Image 7 of 7

(Image credit: Tim Coleman)

Now, let's get on to black-and-white image quality. Firstly, there are three main monotone profiles to choose from: natural (which is the profile I used for most of this review), plus a sepia and a blue-tone look.

I was surprised and disappointed to see how limited the customization options are for these profiles, though. For example, contrast can be tweaked for these presets, but you can't apply a filter effect, as you can to, say, Fujifilm and Ricoh alternatives.

That said, it's possible to upload LUT profiles to the camera from the Leica app for other creative styles, or of course attach a physical filter to the 28mm lens. I like using an orange filter to create dramatic skies with an infrared-type look, while a green filter can emphasize skin tones.

Image 1 of 10

(Image credit: Tim Coleman)Image 2 of 10

(Image credit: Tim Coleman)Image 3 of 10

(Image credit: Tim Coleman)Image 4 of 10

(Image credit: Tim Coleman)Image 5 of 10

(Image credit: Tim Coleman)Image 6 of 10

(Image credit: Tim Coleman)Image 7 of 10

(Image credit: Tim Coleman)Image 8 of 10

(Image credit: Tim Coleman)Image 9 of 10

(Image credit: Tim Coleman)Image 10 of 10

(Image credit: Tim Coleman)

I've taken photos with the Q3 Monochrom in a wide range of scenarios, shooting all images in RAW (DNG) and JPEG. When comparing the two, the natural profile brightens shadows, at the cost of rich contrast.

In all images detail is seriously sharp, with a pleasing fine grain – kind of like an ISO 50 film photography feel.

Image 1 of 10

(Image credit: Tim Coleman)Image 2 of 10

(Image credit: Tim Coleman)Image 3 of 10

(Image credit: Tim Coleman)Image 4 of 10

(Image credit: Tim Coleman)Image 5 of 10

(Image credit: Tim Coleman)Image 6 of 10

(Image credit: Tim Coleman)Image 7 of 10

(Image credit: Tim Coleman)Image 8 of 10

(Image credit: Tim Coleman)Image 9 of 10

(Image credit: Tim Coleman)Image 10 of 10

(Image credit: Tim Coleman)

Sadly, I didn't have the original Q3 at the same time as the Q3 Monochrom to make direct comparisons. However, I have prior experience for such comparisons, and so I know that images shot in black-and-white on a color camera have more pronounced noise, and detail is slightly softer.

I've since done a little research, and found that YouTuber Florian Froschmayer has posted a really useful video which shows the ins and outs for each Q3 model, with comparisons that back up my experience.

His video also hammers home a major warning for using a monochrome-only digital camera: highlight clipping is unforgiving. If you were to overexpose an image – that is, with highlights blown out – you wouldn't be able to recover this detail to nearly the same extent as with a color model, like the original Q3.

Already knowing this, I factored in underexposing when shooting with the Q3 Monochrom. To a degree, this approach can offset the image-quality benefits of its better light sensitivity, but the fact remains that its images are sharper and cleaner than the Q3's when viewed closely. If you're into black-and-white photography, with a good handle on exposure, the Q3 Monochrom's black-and-white image quality exceeds the Q3's.

Should I buy the Leica Q3 Monochrom?

(Image credit: Tim Coleman)Buy it if...

You want a pure black-and-white digital photography experience
No color, clean detail and filmic quality – the Q3 Monochrom is for black-and-white photography purists.

You love camera design
I've reviewed the Q3 and the Q3 Monochrom extensively and I adore their premium design and quality, especially the stunning lens and how it handles.

Don't buy it if...

You want a versatile digital camera
Not only is color photography out of the picture, but the Q3 Monochrom is a compact camera with a fixed 28mm wide-angle lens.

It'll be your main camera
The Q3 Monochrom is an extravagance, a back-up for the times you fancy something a little different to your main camera. And for that reason its lofty asking price is hard to swallow – I'm personally keeping my eye out for the upcoming Ricoh GR IV Monochrome instead.

Also consider Leica Q3

If you're not all-in for black-and-white photography, the image-quality improvements the Q3 Monohcrom delivers are hardly justifiable when you consider the greater versatility of the Leica Q3, which also shoots in color, has a greater ceiling for highlight recovery, and costs less.

Read my Leica Q3 review

How I tested the Leica Q3 Monochrom

(Image credit: Tim Coleman)

• Leica loaned me the Q3 Monochrom for three weeks
• I used it as my everyday carry, shooting images in a variety of scenarios
• I shot all images in RAW and JPEG, and used the macro setting and all focus modes

I spent three weeks using the Leica Q3 Monochrom as my primary camera, shooting all photos in RAW and JPEG. I've used the macro setting for close-up photography, tested the digital crop mode, and swapped between manual and autofocus modes.

When editing, I've looked at shadow and highlight recovery, and taken a close look at the quality of detail, especially in low-light photos where this type of sensor excels.

First reviewed January 2026

Assassin's Creed Shadows is hands-down one of the best Assassins Creed games of the last decade, but does it run well on the Nintendo Switch 2?

The short answer is "Yes, but...", because it's hard to call this particular port an all-round win. At launch, my answer would have been "No", as I was plagued by hard crashes and constant frame rate fluctuation that made the game near unplayable.

Review info

Platform reviewed: Nintendo Switch 2
Available on: PS5, Xbox Series X, Xbox Series S, PC, Nintendo Switch 2
Release date: December 2, 2025 (Nintendo Switch 2)

Thankfully, Ubisoft has bucked the trend in more ways than one with Assassin's Creed Shadows. Not only did the Switch 2 port land mere months after the game's console release, but a major patch arrived just two weeks later, fixing a vast majority of the game-breaking issues. I'm reviewing the (now broadly) fixed port, so I won't languish on those early problems too much.

We reviewed the game itself earlier this year, scoring it an impressive 4.5/5 for its rich combat system, ample content, and dual-protagonist system, and all of these highlights naturally carry across to the Switch port.

The story pacing is a little slow in places, and as Managing Editor Rob Dwiar noted, it peters out the further you get along in Naoe and Yasuke's journey, but broadly speaking, it's a brilliant game worth picking up. If you want our full thoughts on the game's story, combat system and beyond, check out our original review.

Performance, on the other hand, is naturally very different on Nintendo’s hybrid handheld console, and concerns over whether the Switch 2 could handle such a meaty game – especially in handheld mode – were clearly justified. Still, I'm impressed.

No man left behind

(Image credit: Ubisoft)

Shadows is the first Assassin's Creed game to really capture my interest since Black Flag. However, being a Nintendo fan can spell disappointment when it comes to ports; not only do you have to wait longer for a well-optimized version, but the optimization process can also involve removing some content.

With this Switch 2 port, however, you get full access to the game in its entirety (barring, as of writing, the DLC) as well as cross-save, meaning you can pick up where you left off on your PS5, Xbox, or gaming PC.

You do benefit from a few further features fit for the Switch 2's form factor - and, contain your excitement, that means touchscreen menus. Of course, the real benefit is being able to crack your way through the game's many side quests and explorable regions without being glued to your TV or desktop.

Best bit

(Image credit: Assassin's Creed Shadows)

Assassin's Creed Shadows is a massive game with plenty to explore and do. This makes it a great fit for playing on the go, as it's perfect to dip in and out of.

More than this, though, some elements of the game have been revamped to suit the Switch 2, and the game makes great use of the console's hardware. Switching from docked to handheld mode is seamless, with automatic UI adjustments for easy transitions, for example.

Impressively, the Nintendo Switch 2 can convincingly render 16th-century Feudal Japan in great detail despite the obvious hardware limitations, achieving this feat with clever optimizations for both handheld and docked modes. In fact, having experienced how bad it could be pre-patch, I can appreciate all the more the ways Ubisoft has crammed this massive, sprawling game into such a small package.

A downgrade, but no downer

(Image credit: Ubisoft)

In part, that's thanks to Nvidia's Deep Learning Super Sampling (DLSS) technology, which works to upscale lower resolution images in the background. Although capped at 30fps, the game remains highly immersive and visually stunning, especially now that this framerate is more stable post-patch.

Where pre-patch, dense areas and busy combat could lead to huge stutters and even forced ejection to the menu, the game now runs impressively smoothly, though I wouldn't quite go as far as to call it buttery. You'll still occasionally find loading into a new area a bit choppy, and loading screens themselves can be quite intensive on the system.

You're obviously not getting the fidelity of a more powerful console like the PS5 Pro's Ray Tracing tech, but all things considered, the world is rich and immersive. When you hone in on the finer details, you'll notice the cracks more; the lack of light and shade and textures like water look a little cartoonish, crowds of NPCs are thinner, the level of detail in distant objects is lower, and the movements of clothing and facial expressions all suffer a little, but it isn't enough to prevent you from enjoying the game overall.

Docked and handheld mode respectively.

There are more glaring issues that break immersion, like the occasional pop-in and anti-aliasing shimmer. In docked mode, these feel more offensive, but Assassin's Creed Shadows really shines in handheld mode, where the smaller screen can compensate for the game's overall quality, plus a dedicated algorithm keeps variable refresh rate (VRR) enabled even at 30 FPS, according to developers.

Despite this, and that I preferred playing in handheld mode overall, the game can be almost blurry at times, and you'll most certainly notice the difference in the level of detail.

Fundamentally, all the moments that really matter in an Assassin's Creed game stick the landing in the post-patch version of the game; combat is snappy and rewarding, unlocking vantage points oozes grandeur and marvel, and naturally, the world is a delight to explore on foot, too.

If you're coming across from a more powerful console, prepare for an adjustment period, but if it's your first time playing Assassin's Creed Shadows, you may come away thinking that's how the game was always meant to play, and that's a real testament to a well-made port.

Should you play Assassin's Creed Shadows on Nintendo Switch 2?Play it if...

You want a huge open-world AC game to sink hours into
Shadows is the next big Assassin’s Creed game and if you’ve been after another experience like that of Odyssey or Valhalla then Shadows will not disappoint with its large world and the amount of things to do.

You’ve been pining for a Feudal Japan setting for Assassin’s Creed
The wait for Assassin’s Creed to take the adventure to Feudal Japan has been absolutely worth it. The landscapes, characters, and history of the place are perfect for the series and Shadows capitalizes on that well.

You enjoy different combat playstyles
If you’re an action-adventure fan who likes to constantly mix things up in combat or have multiplayer playstyle options, then those offered by Naoe and Yasuke could scratch quite the itch.

You want an open-world game with rewarding exploration
Shadows shakes up the series’ traditional exploration and offers something far more nuanced, immersive, and rewarding. Nothing is fed to you, and areas aren’t suddenly filled after reaching viewpoints; the world entices you to explore it and the satisfaction of doing it is excellent.

Don't play it if...

You prefer the smaller Assassin’s Creed adventures
Assassin’s Creed Mirage this is not, and if you prefer the more focused, small-scale adventures that the series has been known for in the past, then Shadows might be a bit overwhelming.

You don’t want to devote hours to resource-gathering and location completing
While there’s so much to do across Shadows’ landscapes, you’ll need to spend a good while gathering resources to get the most out of the hideout mode and complete a lot of minigames and locations to unlock the top skills.

Accessibility

Ubisoft’s modern suite of strong accessibility options is available in Assassin’s Creed Shadows. There are multiple difficulty levels (all of which are described in full) that affect combat and stealth, and you can also change the game to have one-hit assassinations. If you want to make exploration easier, you can turn on guidance for that to make discovery more straightforward.

There are options to change or turn off graphic effects such as blood, as well as alter the camera, and change inputs for actions. There are also plenty of options for subtitles, text size, background color for text, and language options. The game also features modes to cater to Red-Green and Blue-Yellow colorblindness.

(Image credit: Ubisoft)How I reviewed Assassin's Creed Shadows on Nintendo Switch 2

I've spent 20 hours in Assassin’s Creed Shadows on Nintendo Switch 2, comparing my experience against that of our original reviewer and Xbox Series X performance to assess how well optimized the game is for the console.

In that time, I explored vast swathes of feudal Japan, engaged in plenty of combat sequences, developed my hideout and progressed through the storyline to make my comparisons.

I reviewed Assassin’s Creed Shadows on my Nintendo Switch 2 in both handheld and docked mode using a Corsair Void Max Wireless v2 headset and through the Switch 2 speakers.

First reviewed January 2026

At first glance, you could hardly call the Revon Elite by Dezctop the best standing desk I've reviewed. But don't let first impressions fool you.

Once you factor in the unique leg shape and the magnetic DivMag accessories, you get yourself a unique desk that holds its own. From there, the potential really starts to open up.

For instance, it could be uniquely positioned as a desk for co-working, giving the natural divide from one workspace to another with the DivMag accessory. It's well placed, fact, to help add a level of organization, order, and structure that I just don't see on many of today's standing desks.

Decztop Revon Elite: Price and availability

(Image credit: Collin Probst // Future )

The Revon Elite ranges from $610 - 740 depending on the size and style you choose, available from the official Decztop website and Amazon.com.

There's a heavy focus on modularity here with the DivMag accessory kit. While the panels themselves are proprietary, the metal plates allow for any magnet to stick to it, so you don’t have to just buy their trays and cups, though Dezctop does have plenty of accessories available.

(Image credit: Collin Probst // Future )Decztop Revon Elite: Unboxing and First Impressions

The Revon Elite was a pretty simple install. It has two main boxes: one with the legs and basic accessories, and the other with the desktop itself. Each box has pretty good packaging, keeping things secure and safe in transit. Thankfully, I didn’t get any dents or scratches on my unit; it came in perfect condition. It was unique in the order of some of the leg and frame assembly, but not in a negative way, just interesting.

Another thing that I noticed right away is how easy it would be to swap out some parts to make for a more customized version if I wanted. The wooden plates in the legs are easily swappable if you want to make some custom combinations. Though, fun fact, I had to go digging to find these faceplates for the legs, as they were buried in the boxes since I wasn’t looking for them.

Overall, assembly took me about 45 minutes on my own. The process was about 70% similar to every other desk setup, with a few unique cases when attaching the frame to the desktop. But then again, unless you build desks regularly, this isn’t something anyone else would probably even notice as odd. There are easy-to-follow assembly instructions to help those who may not know how to build a desk.

There are some desks that, while building, I can tell feel a bit cheap. And of those who think cheaply, some are trying to be, and some are trying not to be, but either way, certain things are notable right away. With the Dezctop Revon Elite, I feel like these materials are more on par with standard furniture, not just a standing desk. Granted, this could be partly due to the leg shape and the pop in the paneling, but it could also just be the focus of the design.

The last thing I’ll mention in this section is the controller. I’ve seen controllers for a lot of desks, and this one is the most unique. It’s connected via a Network cable and has ports on either end, making it easy to move around and connect wherever needed. For me, I put it on the left side, tucked under the desktop, and on the leg frame.

After the pictures were taken, I also played around with having this controller above the desktop in a super unique setup that I have never been able to do with any other desk. This is only possible because the controller is not mounted but is simply magnetic, and there is a lot of metal in this desk setup. So you could, really easily, put this controller just about anywhere.

Decztop Revon Elite: Design & Build Quality

(Image credit: Collin Probst // Future )

The unique frame engineering of the Revon Elite provides good front-to-back stability. And, although the leg design is quite prominent, the setup uses a simple C-shaped leg structure.

Another notable feature of this desk is, of course, the hybrid divider/cable management. They are definitely unique, but they can be incredibly useful depending on your use case. They can be used for the simple act of keeping your workspace clean in a bullpen or co-working space (queue flashbacks to that episode of The Office with Jim and Dwight fighting over having things spill over on each other’s desks).

Another way that this desk is helpful is if you just like the cable management below and then perhaps just like the look of the organization tools above, regardless of whether they split the space up or give you defined space, these magnetic panels above the desk can be used with magnetic drawers or hooks to keep an eye on things.

The build quality on this desk feels pretty good, too. It’s not the highest-quality material, but it’s also not meant to be. Not everyone wants a slab of solid walnut for their desktop for many reasons, price being a very prominent one.

However, for those who care about the desk functionality and not having the mast premium solid wide plank, custom real wood panels, this is great. The quality is solid enough to last you a while, all without costing you both kidneys.

Decztop Revon Elite: In use

(Image credit: Collin Probst // Future )Specs

Lifting Capacity: 264lbs
Height Range: 25.6–51.2 inches

Day to day, this desk has functioned surprisingly well. I was even able to temporarily use this as a storage desk during the holidays, when I had guests staying in my studio space. It easily held heavy boxes on top and then lift them away with ease.

Afterwards, I was able to get this set up and use it as a desk in my workstation. It’s great for laptop use while you still want some space. I could also see building out a more robust setup. You’d probably want to go with a monitor arm rather than a desk shelf, and once you get that set up, you can use the metallic panels to organize the desk with cups, shelves, pen holders, and more. It's not the only desk to offer this sort of wide-ranging accessories (Vari and Secretlab also offer a range of connected peripherals), but it's certainly one of the strongest uses.

At 6’2” I have a hard time getting all of my desks to reach my ideal height, but the Dezctop Revon Elite met the height I needed without any problems, allowing me to work at my ideal height while standing and sitting. Plus, with the controller’s presets, I can easily jump between my set height and standing at the press of a button rather than having to press and hold a button.

I’m a big fan of cable management. I take great pride in clean setups, even though my desk setups usually have an absurd number of cables, especially the ones I can build out with tons of gear, ready to roll for whatever I may send their way. The Dezctop Revon Elite’s cable management solution actually worked for my desk styling.

While I may not build my most robust setups on here, it can easily handle the average desk and even some pretty robust setups. Depending on how you space out the sections, you can make a pretty sizable tray for cables, bricks, adapters, or other things you have that run your desk, but that you don’t necessarily want showcased on top.

I’ve used this desk in a few ways for testing. I’ve had it work as a single laptop desk for testing some laptops, I’ve thrown a monitor with the standard monitor base on here, I’ve run with a monitor on a monitor arm clamped to the side of the desk, I have had a clear desk and used this just for some unboxing and I’ve had this as a desk that I stored some boxes on for a week as well. So far, this desk has not shown any concerns, no issues, and it’s worked great in all of those scenarios.

Decztop Revon Elite: Final verdict

(Image credit: Collin Probst // Future )

The Dezctop Revon Elite is a not as well known sleeper desk. It's great for those who want a modular setup, a simple setup, or even a desk that can be flexible over the years or through your days.

Sure, it's not the standard slab of walnut for those who are on the hunt for an aesthetically pleasing desk setup, but, it is a fantastic desk that changes the game a little bit. The modular sections are brilliant and flexible to what you want, where you want it. In fact, if you don't like the metallic panel, you can even take that off to give you just cable management below.

If you like to change up your desk a lot, if you want something that's a little different than every other desk, or if you really like vertical organization and magnets, then you should absolutely check this desk out. It's unique, it's got great potential to grow the ecosystem, and it's a quality desk for a great price.

Image 1 of 23

(Image credit: Collin Probst // Future )Image 2 of 23

(Image credit: Collin Probst // Future )Image 3 of 23

(Image credit: Collin Probst // Future )Image 4 of 23

(Image credit: Collin Probst // Future )Image 5 of 23

(Image credit: Collin Probst // Future )Image 6 of 23

(Image credit: Collin Probst // Future )Image 7 of 23

(Image credit: Collin Probst // Future )Image 8 of 23

(Image credit: Collin Probst // Future )Image 9 of 23

(Image credit: Collin Probst // Future )Image 10 of 23

(Image credit: Collin Probst // Future )Image 11 of 23

(Image credit: Collin Probst // Future )Image 12 of 23

(Image credit: Collin Probst // Future )Image 13 of 23

(Image credit: Collin Probst // Future )Image 14 of 23

(Image credit: Collin Probst // Future )Image 15 of 23

(Image credit: Collin Probst // Future )Image 16 of 23

(Image credit: Collin Probst // Future )Image 17 of 23

(Image credit: Collin Probst // Future )Image 18 of 23

(Image credit: Collin Probst // Future )Image 19 of 23

(Image credit: Collin Probst // Future )Image 20 of 23

(Image credit: Collin Probst // Future )Image 21 of 23

(Image credit: Collin Probst // Future )Image 22 of 23

(Image credit: Collin Probst // Future )Image 23 of 23

(Image credit: Collin Probst // Future )

For more office furniture essentials, see our guide to the best office chairs we've tested.

Goldring GR3 turntable: two-minute review

Just two decades or so since it last had a turntable in its product line-up, Goldring is back. The GR3 has been developed in collaboration with acknowledged experts and it really looks the part in a ‘black high-gloss lacquer’ sort of way.

It’s got plenty going for it where specification is concerned, too. This is a belt-drive turntable with manual speed-change, and it arrives with a very capable Goldring E3 pre-fitted and pre-adjusted moving magnet cartridge at the end of the aluminium tube tonearm. It’s supplied with a couple of pairs of QED cables to make plugging it into a system as painless as can be. And it’s fitted with an internal phono stage to ensure it is compatible with as wide a range of systems as possible – if the phono stage had an ‘off’ switch it could be fair to say the GR3 has everything you could possibly expect or require.

Connected to an appropriate system, the Goldring GR3 is an articulate, informative and confident listen with just enough drive and attack to stop it sounding leisurely. Dynamic headroom, soundstaging and timing all impress, and the amount of detail the GR3 can extract from the groove is also noteworthy.

In a slightly less appropriate system, though, the latent high-frequency stridency the Goldring hints at becomes a little more evident – a minor lack of treble substance can become apparent. When weighed against all the things that are enjoyable about the GR3 sound, though, ‘minor’ is the word to bear in mind and it bears serious consideration to sit among the best turntables available.

(Image credit: Future / Simon Lucas)Goldring GR3 turntable review: price and release date

• $1,299 / £699 / AU$1,599 (approx.)
• Launched in October 2025

The Goldring GR3 launched towards the end of October 2025, and in the United States it's priced at $1,299. In the United Kingdom it goes for £699, while in Australia it will set you back around AU$1,599.

Goldring GR3 turntable review: features

• Low-vibration belt drive motor
• Integrated phono stage
• Pre-fitted Goldring E3 moving magnet cartridge

The plain fact is that the Goldring GR3 has a few more features than is the norm where a record player costing this sort of money is concerned. So where has that half-a-star gone from the ‘features’ score below? I’ll get to that, but for now let’s establish what’s what.

The motor that moves the belt that spins the platter is a low-noise, low-vibration design. The tonearm is a 237mm one-piece aluminum tube with a three-point arm mounting system - and it’s pre-fitted with an extremely well-regarded Goldring E3 moving magnet cartridge, a design that’s well on the way to becoming a classic.

The GR3 is also supplied with two pairs of relatively high-quality interconnects, manufactured by Goldring’s sister company QED. One is a 1.5mm stereo RCA design, the other a 3.5mm / stereo RCA alternative, so connecting the GR3 to a full-size system or a pair of powered speakers should be no problem.

The Goldring’s stereo RCA outputs are fed by an integrated phono stage, and it’s here that the GR3’s final half-a-star goes astray. I’m absolutely in favor of record players with integrated phono stages, don’t get me wrong; it makes for ultimate flexibility, and it means the deck can slot into pretty much any system you care to mention. But the phono stage here is always on and cannot be switched off, so if you own a system with a phono stage of its own (and surely any number of people ready to spend $1,299 on a record player must do), you must avoid your own phono stage for the one fitted here. You don’t even get to compare and contrast.

Just a simple ‘on/off’ switch is all that’s required, Goldring. Is it too much to ask?

• Features score: 4.5/5

(Image credit: Future / Simon Lucas)Goldring GR3 turntable review: Sound quality

• Tremendous rhythmic positivity
• Extracts plenty of fine detail
• Lacks a little top-end substance

There are some aspects of audio reproduction at which well-sorted turntables seem to excel. And the Goldring GR3 is almost a caricature of a record player in this respect; the areas where it’s at its most convincing and most enjoyable are all textbook turntable strengths.

Take rhythmic expression, for instance. The GR3 manages the low frequencies during a listen to Patti Smith’s Horses with absolute confidence, closely observing the attack and decay of individual bass sounds so that rhythms and tempos are described in the most naturalistic, fluent and convincing manner. There’s plenty of variation in the low end here, ample detail regarding tone and texture is available, but it’s the effortlessness with which the Goldring describes even quite tricky, off-kilter rhythms that lets you know you’re in safe hands.

The unity and togetherness with which the GR3 presents the whole recording is another one from the Big Book of Turntable Cliches. Detail levels are high throughout the frequency range, and (with the slight exception of the very top end) tonality is very consistent too – and there’s a real sense of singularity and performance about the way the Goldring handles the entirety of the music. As with rhythmic expression, there’s a complete lack of stress or apparent effort in the way this turntable handles the timing of a recording.

There’s decent dynamic headroom available for when the going gets especially hectic or intense. The GR3 is able to create a large and quite persuasive soundstage and there’s more than enough room available for each strand of a recording to make itself heard. The Goldring communicates eloquently through the midrange, and has just enough positivity to its overall presentation to prevent the words ‘laid back’ seeming like something that might come in useful at some point.

It’s only at the top of the frequency range that the GR3 seems anything less than nicely balanced and assured. Unlike the rest of the frequency range, which is described with quite carefully neutral tonality and a fair amount of substance, the very high end sounds a little thin and malnourished. It stops well short of hardness or edginess, don’t get me wrong, but its relative lack of body puts it at odds with pretty much everything that’s going on beneath it.

In a sympathetically matched system it will hardly be an issue but with carelessly chosen or similarly inclined partners the GR3 could conceivably bare its teeth a little more readily than is ideal.

• Sound quality score: 4.5/5

(Image credit: Future / Simon Lucas)Goldring GR3 turntable review: Design

• Belt drive with manual speed change
• Phenolic resin platter
• High-gloss black plinth

Goldring, up to a point, is being quite open about the fact the GR3 was developed in collaboration with a third party. This is the Goldring’s first turntable in over two decades, after all, so the idea of getting some outside help is probably sensible. “A renowned British hi-fi manufacturer” is how Goldring rather coyly describes its associate.

If you’re in any way au fait with the work of any renowned British turntable brands, the design of the GR3 is going to look pretty familiar – heck, if you’re in a similar line of work to me you’re probably likely to recognize the arrangement of the packaging the GR3 arrives in. But if you’re going to collaborate, then why not collaborate with the best around?

Anyhow, the GR3 is a belt-drive design, and is fitted with a phenolic resin platter. The platter is designed to increase inertia and maximize the flywheel effect (thus maintaining consistent rotational speed) by having the bulk of its considerable mass at the outside.

The plinth is built of anti-resonant composite fiber, and is finished in the sort of high-gloss black that collects fingerprints like a particularly zealous scene-of-crime investigator. It stands on three pliant, resonance-suppressing feet, and can be fitted with a supplied clear Perpsex dust cover. With the lid closed, the GR3 is 120 x 450 x 360mm (HxWxD), and weighs around 5.5kg.

• Design score: 5/5

(Image credit: Future / Simon Lucas)Goldring GR3 turntable review: usability and set-up

• Cartridge is pre-adjusted for all but downforce
• Can easily be connected to many types of system
• Manual speed change

The Goldring E3 moving magnet cartridge is fitted to the tonearm before the GR3 leaves the factory, and it’s pre-adjusted for all but downforce. Dial in the recommended 2g and you’re ready to play.

Connecting to a system is very simple, too. Use one of the supplied cables to take line-level left-and-right channel information away from the turntable and into an ‘aux’ or other line-level input on your set-up – anything from a powered speaker to a full-on hi-fi system is fair game.

After that, make sure the belt is around the correct part of the pulley in order to get the rpm you need. The power switch is on the underside of the plinth, almost directly beneath the legend ‘Goldring - established 1906’ on the surface. Take the guard off the cartridge and lower the needle onto the vinyl… then sit back and enjoy.

• Usability and setup score: 5/5

(Image credit: Future / Simon Lucas)Goldring GR3 review: Value

• Great build and finish
• Articulate sound
• Very acceptable cartridge

A good standard of build and finish, a very acceptable cartridge thrown in, and specification that makes system-matching the work of a moment all go towards suggesting there’s value for money available here. Add in the confident, articulate way the Goldring GR3 sounds and its case is approaching ‘watertight’.

• Value score: 5/5

(Image credit: Future / Simon Lucas)Should I buy the Goldring GR3?

Attributes

Notes

Rating

Features

Low-vibration belt drive motor; integrated phono stage but would benefit from an 'off' option.

4.5/5

Sound quality

Excellent level of detail with decent dynamic headroom, but lacks a little top-end substance.

4.5/5

Design

Belt-drive design with a phenolic resin platter, developed in collaboration with a third party.

5/5

Usability and setup

Goldring E3 moving magnet cartridge fitted to the tonearm, though you must set the downforce; otherwise easy to connect to a system.

5/5

Value

Good build and finish, great cartridge, a fine proposition.

5/5

Buy it if...

You want as convenient an experience as possible
Yes, you have to set the downforce, but other than that, the GR3 is as painless as they come.

You value effortlessly rhythmic sound
The way the Goldring just flows is highly enjoyable.

You don’t mind a bit of dusting
The plinth shows up every speck of dust that lands on it.

Don't buy it if...

You have a decent phono stage in your system already
It’s the GR3’s phono stage or nothing, I’m afraid.

Your system is in any way flimsy at the top of the frequency range
The Goldring is happy to hit the top end perhaps a little harder than is ideal.

You have greasy hands
That high-gloss plinth picks up fingerprints very easily indeed.

Goldring GR3 review: also consider

Rega Planar PL1
Obviously you should consider Rega as a strong alternative to the Goldring – the Planar PL1 is less expensive, it’s true, it isn’t fitted with pre-amplification or as capable a cartridge as the Goldring, but it’s cracking value for money nevertheless.
Read the full Rega Planar PL1 review

Pro-Ject T2 Super Phono
It’s also worth checking out Pro-Ject, specifically the T2 Super Phono. It’s a good-looking, great-sounding record player with an integrated phono stage (that can be switched off if you want) and a decent (but not quite Goldring E3-standard) Sumiko moving magnet cartridge. And it’s available at GR3 money or even a little less.

How I tested the Goldring GR3

(Image credit: Future / Simon Lucas)

• Tested over the course of two weeks
• Connected to a Naim Uniti Star network streamer/amplifier and Bowers & Wilkins 705 S3 Signature speakers
• Listening to various types of music

I connected the Goldring GR3 to the line-level analog input of my Naim Uniti Star network streamer/amplifier using the supplied QED RCA/RCA cables.

The Naim was connected to a pair of Bowers & Wilkins 705 S3 Signature speakers on FS-700 S3 stands using QED XT50 speaker cable.

And then I listened to a lot of records for quite a long time, which was not the hardship it sounds like, I have to admit. I used a Rega Planar 2 with Carbon MM cartridge and a Technics SL-1300G with Goldring 1042 cartridge as reference devices.

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

The Vari CoreChair has genuinely surprised me. I thought that this would be a flash-in-the-pan kind of chair for me, a gimmick that I loved for exactly a week and then forgot about entirely, and I almost did, but I see the potential.

In fact, if it weren’t for my bad knees combined with my tall frame, I think this would be the perfect chair for me during the workday. But a few things are keeping this chair in “good” status, not “great.” But each of them can be fixed with simple tweaks.

The CoreChair’s entire USP is its unstable connection between the seat and the post. It’s just loose enough to cause you to have to engage your core while sitting, which may be hit or miss for users, but for those who move while sitting already, perhaps bounce a leg or fidget, or feel the need to stand and pace around, this may be precisely what you need.

This won't be the best office chair for most people - it's certainly a niche product. But for me, as a pretty active individual, this chair, in concept, is precisely what I want. I can’t get the height to work for me, but again, that could be solved pretty easily.

Vari CoreChair: Price and availability

(Image credit: Collin Probst // Future)

The CoreChair sells for $499 on the official Vari website. With that, you get free standard shipping in the contiguous US and a 3-year warranty, including complete product replacement under Vari’s policy.

It’s worth noting that this chair is currently only available in black, but I doubt the lack of color options would deter buyers.

(Image credit: Collin Probst // Future)Vari CoreChair: Unboxing and First Impressions

This was probably the easiest chair I have ever built, outside of the few I have received that are pre-built. It took about 3 minutes, two screws, and no worry at all.

Off the bat, I thought this was an odd chair; it had a very aggressive tailbone cushion, a super-low backrest as you'd expect from a task chair that's designed for focused work, not staying supported for long hours.

Saying that, after sitting on this for the first time, I was thoroughly impressed by how comfortable the cushion was and how premium everything felt, given its simplicity.

However, I was right in my first thought: this chair should be at stool height, not chair height, but more on that later.

Vari CoreChair: Design & Build Quality

(Image credit: Collin Probst // Future)

After months of using this chair off and on, I still stand by the fact that this is one of the more comfortable cushions in a seat. It’s firm yet supportive, and breathable on even the hottest days. I also love that the spokes on the legs are wider, making it easier to rest my feet on.

The backrest section here is a tad confusing, and to be honest, I'm not sure why it exists. It feels unnecessary, like it should either be larger or be removed entirely. And, I actually mean that as a positive. The chair is strong enough on its own that reworking it into a stool might be better than using it as a chair.

If this were a stool, I could stretch out my legs a bit more, use the footrests on the spokes a bit more, and aid my balance while using it, too. The chair is so close to being great; I just wish there were a bit of a change.

Vari CoreChair: In use

(Image credit: Collin Probst // Future)

I work out of a specific workspace three days a week, and this chair has been in that workspace for the entirety of my testing. I’ve used it for all-day sessions, upwards of 8 hours at a time. Throughout that time, I feel like I can now say that this chair doesn’t so much give me a core workout as it does a focused, engaged core.

For someone like me, who is very active and hyper-mobile, I feel like I am constantly tapping my feet or bouncing my leg. A chair like this that helps me stay engaged without feeling like I need to tap or fidget. I noticed that using this chair helped me lock into what I was working on, making hours feel like mere minutes.

After several weeks of using this chair, I do have a few notes I wish I could change. First off, I don’t think the lumbar portion is necessary, though I see why they added it. Secondly, it could be my height, but I wish that this chair were actually up to stool height. If it were a bit taller, I think I could use this for a few more days in a row, or even a few more hours at a time. Right now, after a few hours, I get a bit fidgety due to knee pain, but I love having the core activation.

I think, in its current form, the best use for this chair is somewhere between two- and four-hour working sessions where you need to write, focus, knock out a proposal, crush some emails, or something else you need hyper-fixation on. This chair could help you lock in and knock it out. For some, that is precisely what they need to do some of their best work.

However, if you have lower back pain or another ailment I'd recommending steering clear of this chair, as it won't provide the natural support most ergonomic chairs do and instead, force you to support yourself by adding a layer of instability. If you're suffering serious lower back pain, the Steelcase Leap remains the gold-standard in that department.

Vari CoreChair: Final verdict

(Image credit: Collin Probst // Future)

The Vari CoreChair is a strong option for the right person and something others should steer clear of. It’s not the chair for everyone, but a niche option that could be a secret weapon for productivity.

As discussed, there are a few areas I'd like to adjust to make this an even better chair, but for now, I can see myself keeping this chair in rotation for those times I need to lock in. It’s a great rotation between sitting, standing at a standing desk, and sitting in the CoreChair, though I know that not everyone has the opportunity for such a working environment.

To keep things simple, if you experience lower back or knee pain, this will definitely not be the right chair for you. If you prefer passive sitting (where the chair does the work for you) over active sitting (where you control how you sit and what support you get), again, the CoreChair isn't going to tick those boxes.

But if you’re the kind of person who fidgets, is constantly moving, or has a bit of a hyperactive mentality, this chair may unlock productivity levels you never knew were possible.

Image 1 of 6

(Image credit: Collin Probst // Future)Image 2 of 6

(Image credit: Collin Probst // Future)Image 3 of 6

(Image credit: Collin Probst // Future)Image 4 of 6

(Image credit: Collin Probst // Future)Image 5 of 6

(Image credit: Collin Probst // Future)Image 6 of 6

(Image credit: Collin Probst // Future)

For more office furniture essentials, visit our guide to the best standing desks we've tested.

Scuf Envision Pro V2: two-minute review

Bespoke PC controllers are still fairly rare in the gaming accessory space, though it’s definitely a growing market. Most offer simple controllers, usually with Xbox button layouts and functionality, to cater to those who just want to play games on PC using the best PC controllers.

Then there’s the Scuf Envision Pro V2, which is positioned as a highly customizable and complex product that has many more buttons than a regular controller would usually have by default. This takes the Scuf Envision Pro into an even more niche area, for those who want the additional hotkeys and buttons offered by keyboard and mouse, but with the form factor and comfort of a controller. It’s an interesting idea, though one that I’m not sure will be all that useful to many players.

After using the Scuf Envision Pro for 30 hours, I’ve been impressed by its highly tweakable control schemes, its brilliantly designed buttons, and how it’s changed the way I play certain games like Fortnite and Marvel Rivals. Unfortunately, I’ve also run into countless issues that stem from the added complexity of a controller like this. The software is inconsistent, the onboarding is essentially non-existent, and the troubleshooting is particularly frustrating.

There’s a lot about the Scuf Envision Pro that’ll appeal to those who want to tinker away at every single aspect of their controller, but personally, I found the options overwhelming and rarely worth the time spent toying around in menus on my desktop. Mostly, I’ve come away questioning why someone who wants so much customization in a controller wouldn’t simply use a keyboard and mouse instead, and at the high cost of entry, the Scuf Envision Pro isn’t a gamepad I’d recommend to 90% of the gamers I know.

Still, it’s worth noting that the Scuf Envision Pro isn’t really supposed to be for everyone. The deep suite of programmable inputs, the on-board RGB lighting, and the ability to truly create a specialized controller of your own do amount to something quite special. If you do want full control over your gaming experience, then the Scuf Envision Pro is a very competitive offering, and one that actually feels good to hold and use.

I could certainly see some loving the process of configuring individual controller profiles, dialling in triggers, and setting custom hotkeys, but there’s a lot you have to put in before you really start seeing its full potential.

(Image credit: Future)

As I’m spending a lot of my time reviewing gaming hardware at the moment, I’m growing to loathe the various software programmes that are often required to access a product’s full suite of functions. The Scuf Envision Pro requires Corsair’s iCue software for first-time setup. It’s a clunky affair that really could do with some onboarding tutorials, or even just more information on how to get started with the new controller.

Most frustrating is the instability of the iCue software’s connection to the controller itself. I’d regularly find myself unplugging and re-plugging the wired connection to get the controller to show up in the menus. Then there’s the switch on the back of the controller that must be flipped between wired and wireless modes. This switch isn’t something I’ve seen on controllers like this before, and it just adds another level of complexity to what is already a pretty tangled-up web connecting the Wired and Wireless modes.

While I do understand the extra levels of precision and control afforded by a keyboard and mouse setup, I’ve always preferred using a controller for one key reason – simplicity. The Scuf Envision Pro is anything but simple, though perhaps that’s the point. Even after 10 hours of fiddling with the Scuf Envision Pro, I was rarely able to just plug it in and play. Nor was I ever 100% sure what profile I was playing with, whether my controller was using the wireless or wired mode, and whether the RGB lighting was even displaying what I’d programmed it to.

When the Scuf Envision Pro does work, it works extremely well. Once I’d dialed in my settings for a few different games, and after digging into the iCue software, I was quite impressed by the functionality of the gamepad. I adore the form factor, in particular, as I’ve always gravitated towards symmetrical sticks and less bulky controllers. The design is sleek, but sturdy. It’s technically heavier than a PS5 DualSense controller, but it certainly doesn't feel like it. The buttons are a real standout, with an endlessly satisfying click to their action. Similarly, the d-pad features a nice clickiness, and the triggers feel smooth and snappy regardless of how you program them.

There’s a big issue with the price, especially for someone like me who just isn’t going to realistically make use of the majority of the features of the Scuf Envision Pro. Perhaps it could be a brilliant upgrade for PC gamers looking to play games like racing simulators, but I think for the more general gamer, there are very few use cases for the iCue software, or the bulk of the additional buttons on the controller itself.

Scuf Envision Pro V2 review: price and availability

• $169.99 / £159.99
• Priced around the same as the V1 was at launch
• Not many direct competitors, but priced reasonably for the feature set and amount of buttons / paddles

The Scuf Envision Pro is difficult to compare to its competitors, given that it offers a frankly dizzying number of buttons and programmable features. Unless you’re set on making use of absolutely everything the Scuf Envision Pro has to offer, it’s tough to recommend it over something considerably cheaper, like the GameSir G7 Pro, which comes with drift-resisting TMR sticks and four extra buttons.

In terms of direct alternatives to the Scuf Envision Pro, you’re looking at the Razer Wolverine V3 Pro, Xbox Elite Series 2, and potentially the DualSense Edge. None of these offer the same level of additional inputs and features as the Scuf Envision Pro, and all are slightly pricier. Still, I’d argue that these alternatives have a better user experience when swapping and customizing profiles, and have better software paired with the devices.

Given the Scuf Envision Pro’s mix of controller and keyboard/mouse features, however, you’re getting a lot for the money. The question is whether you actually need extra buttons in the center of the controller, and whether the side-mounted SAX buttons will be more of a hindrance or a useful addition to your setup.

(Image credit: Future)

Unlike its direct predecessor, the Scuf Envision Pro V2 does feature Hall Effect thumbsticks, aiming to eliminate the risk of stick drift. I’d expect this from a premium controller, but it’s still nice to see a noticeable upgrade on the previous iteration. Generally, most competitors also offer Hall Effect thumbsticks for a similar price, or TMR sticks.

All in all. It’s tough to say whether the Scuf Envision Pro is worth the high asking price, as this will largely come down to your own personal needs when picking up a PC-only controller. One thing to note is that unlike its competitors, the Scuf Envision Pro can only be used with Windows PCs. That means no consoles, and no Mac or Linux. For me, I’d be looking for a bit more versatility when choosing a premium controller, but if you only game on PC, you’ll be set.

Scuf Envision Pro V2 review: Specs

Scuf Envision Pro

Price

$169.99 / £159.99 / AU$ 322 (estimated)

Weight

10.05oz / 362g

Dimensions

6.5 x 4.23 x 2.5in / 165 x 107.5 x 63.5mm

Compatibility

PC (Windows)

Connection type

Wireless, Wired (audio jack), Bluetooth

Battery life

19 hours

Features

Hall-Effect thumbsticks, adjustable triggers, back paddles, additional buttons on main deck, additional buttons on bumper areas, RGB lighting.

Software

iCue (Corsair; PC)

(Image credit: Future)Scuf Envision Pro V2 review: design and features

• Comfortable and premium build
• Buttons have a great click when pushed
• Triggers and additional buttons are all easy to reach and use

The Scuf Envision Pro is available in a very impressive suite of colors. I got the grey and orange design, and I really like how it looks out of the box. There are a ton of little details found on the sticks, along the edges of the triggers, and on the back grip that make the Scuf Envision Pro look sleek and high-end. I particularly like the little trackpad that blends seamlessly with the main body, and the clean look of the buttons against the faceplate.

Scuf tends to do things a bit differently when compared to its competitors in terms of button layout, especially in the placement of the back paddles. It took me a while to get used to where the four back buttons sit, as they’re lower down than other controllers I’ve used. After a while, though, they feel right, and you can swap out a bunch of the buttons for in-box replacements if you want to tweak things slightly.

I’m less sold on the SAX buttons, which sit up near the front bumper, along the sides of the controller. It’s very easy to press them with your index fingers when you’re not intending to, though you can remove them entirely if you wish. I attempted to get used to the SAX buttons rather than swapping them out, and never really managed to fit them into my custom control setups. They are useful for mapping grenades and ping functions in shooters; however, as long as you don’t accidentally hit them by mistake.

(Image credit: Future)

PC controllers tend to use the Xbox design layout for sticks, so it’s nice to see a symmetrical stick offering from Scuf here. I prefer the overall placement of the sticks to the official Sony gamepads, and really like how the form factor of the grips sits in your hands while holding the controller. Similarly, the buttons have some neat technology applied that makes the Scuf Envision Pro stand out. They’re more like mouse clicks than button presses, and I love how tactile and responsive they feel.

The other main design highlight for the Scuf Envision Pro is the five on-board G-Keys that run along the bottom of the controller. These can be mapped to whatever function you want, but are particularly useful for voice chat controls. They sit in a row surrounded by an RGB light bar, too, which can be customized with a range of colors. I found the light bar to be largely unnoticeable most of the time, as you need to be running iCue in the background while gaming to really make the most of them.

While the Scuf Envision Pro does lean on software for many of its design features, there are nice mechanical switches for the triggers. There’s a switch at the back too that toggles between wired and wireless inputs, but I never quite got the hang of switching them around, preferring to just wire in the controller to my PC. Build-wise, the Scuf Envision Pro is an impressive controller that feels bespoke and unique when compared to bulkier, more garish PC controllers.

Scuf Envision Pro V2 review: Performance

• Fantastic response times from triggers and buttons
• iCue can used to fully customize your experience
• Settings can be stored on the controller and used without iCue

Purely as a gaming controller, the Scuf Envision Pro V2 works flawlessly. The triggers and buttons are responsive, and the additional buttons can really make the difference in competitive online games. It does focus heavily on software to open up its full suite of features, however, and this is where the majority of the problems lie.

Corsair’s iCue is designed very much like a keyboard and mouse macro software, and is quite unfriendly to those used to playing on controllers at first glance. You must install iCue to set up the controller first time, though you can actually just install the Scuf drivers and use the controller’s limited on-board features if you’d rather 9I wouldn't recommend this, given how much you're paying for those full features). There’s no real tutorial or handholding within iCue, and unless you already know what you’re doing with dead zones and triggers, you’ll likely be a bit overwhelmed at first. You can create a handful of custom profiles, each color-coded, and then mapped to the controller.

I do like that the settings are saved on the controller itself, well most of them at least, meaning you can use the center button to switch profiles on the fly. The main problem comes when you want to use the extended features of the Scuf Envision Pro (like the G-Keys), which require you to have iCue running in the background. This does have an impact on performance, and given the tendency for the iCue software to lose connection to the controller, having to tab out of a game to check what’s going on is a real pain.

(Image credit: Corsair)

The only reason you’d spend this much on the Scuf Envision Pro is to make use of all the extra bells and whistles, but by tying things to iCue, Scuf has really made things difficult for users. I found that regardless of whether I was connected via wired or wireless mode, things would drop in and out as the controller lost connection every now and again. Upon connecting again, I was always unsure as to what mode the controller was actually in, what profile was active, and whether the back buttons were assigned correctly. This invariably led to my having to open iCue and scroll through several menus.

After 20 or so hours of testing, I just decided to stick with a wired connection, as wireless would often disconnect from iCue, disabling the back buttons, G-Keys, and sometimes even the triggers. Restarting iCue seemed to be the fix, but not one I wanted to be doing while playing a game on another screen. The Scuf Envision Pro’s complexity comes at a price, it seems, and with so many custom profiles to map, frequent software issues, and instances of on-board memory and software memory butting heads, I’m not sure the extra technology is really worth it for all but the most devoted of PC gamers.

The iCue software is easily the weakest part of the Scuf Envision Pro, and because it’s required for certain features to be unlocked, the hardware suffers as a result. As a premium PC controller, this is a great-feeling, highly responsive bit of kit. As an all-round package, I struggle to see who would bother spending so much time in iCue to really make the most of their purchase.

Should I buy the Scuf Envision Pro V2?Buy it if...

You want unparalleled control over your controller’s settings
The level of customization available on the Scuf Envision Pro is truly unmatched. You’ll be able to map hotkeys, tweak the RGB lighting, and set custom profiles for deadzones and more.

You’re a PC-only gamer looking for a controller with additional buttons
The Scuf Envision Pro has a bunch of additional buttons when compared to a standard gamepad. There are four back paddles, side-mounted SAX buttons, and even 5 G-Key inputs. This is the most buttons I’ve ever used on a controller, and the possibilities for control schemes really are endless.

Don't buy it if...

You don’t want to rely on additional software
The iCue software is required to run in the background if you want to make the most of the Scuf Envision Pro. For those wary of performance and those who just want to plug and play, this isn’t the controller for you.

You don’t want to spend more on a premium controller that can only be used on PC
The Scuf Envision Pro is expensive, especially when you consider that it can only be used for Windows PC. Other alternatives will work on Mac, Xbox, and Linux, so it may be worth going for something more versatile if you play on multiple platforms.

Scuf Envision Pro review: Also consider

Still not sure if the Scuf Envision Pro V2 is for you? Here are two competitors that might better fit your needs.

Scuf Envision Pro

Razer Wolverine V3 Pro

Xbox Elite Series 2

Price

$169.99 / £159.99

$199.99 / £199.99

$199.99 / £169.99

Weight

10.05oz / 362g

14.72oz / 418g

12.16oz / 345g

Dimensions

6.5 x 4.23 x 2.5in / 165 x 107.5 x 63.5mm

8.86 x 8.7 x 3.23in / 157 x 105 x 100mm

3.07 x 7.29 x 7.23in / 193 x 193 x 90.9 mm

Compatibility

PC (Windows)

Xbox Series X, Xbox Series S, PC

Xbox Series X, Xbox Series S, PC, Mobile

Connection type

Wireless, Wired (audio jack), Bluetooth

Wireless (2.4GHz dongle), Wired (USB Type-C)

Wireless, Bluetooth, Wired

Battery life

19 hours

12-13 hours

40 hours

Software

iCue (Corsair)

Razer Controller App

Xbox Accessories App

Razer Wolverine V3 Pro
This controller is more expensive than the Scuf Envision Pro, but you can also use it on Xbox. Generally, it’s a heavier and bulkier product, and lacks the additional button count of the Envision Pro. Still, its software and higher ease of use will make it more accessible for the majority of players looking for a PC controller.

For more information, check out our full Razer Wolverine V3 Pro review.

Xbox Elite Wireless Controller Series 2
For those looking for a sturdy, premium controller that works on PC and Xbox, you can’t really go wrong with the Elite Series 2. It features four back paddles, and you can swap out stick inputs and other build aspects. The battery life is much higher here, and you can use the Elite Series 2 controller on mobile, Mac, as well as PC and Xbox. For the extra money, it’s a much more plug-and-play alternative, and one that’s often on sale.

For more information, check out our full Xbox Elite Series 2 Wireless Controller review.

How I tested the Scuf Envision Pro

• Tested for a month, playing Marvel Rivals, Fortnite and Battlefield 6
• Used primarily in default control scheme, but tested button mapping, and profile swapping functions
• Tested in wireless and wired modes, and used iCue to dial in deadzones, trigger settings, and lighting options

I used the Scuf Envision Pro controller with a gaming laptop, and with the Corsair iCue software downloaded. Occasionally, I’d use the controller in wireless mode, but I found the wired connection to be much more stable. Over time, I dug into the iCue software to create custom profiles, tweak deadzones, and experiment with the SAX button inputs.

After tweaking the Scuf Envision Pro, I primarily mapped the extra buttons to voice chat inputs. The SAX buttons were great for triggering grenades in FPS games, while the G-Keys were mostly used to mute and switch voice chat functions.

First reviewed December 2025-January 2026

Read more about how we test

A Thousand Blows steps out of the bareknuckle boxing rings of Victorian London to focus on bleaker themes in the second season of Steven Knight's historical drama. While there are still plenty of wince-inducing brawls, A Thousand Blows season 2 is less about gritty fight sequences and more about the fight for survival in an unforgiving Victorian London.

Like the first season, Knight has once again mixed fact with fiction, using real historical events to inspire the narratives throughout the series, which he describes as "stepping stones" for creating a foundation to the overall storyline. "Usually, you’ve got a date, maybe a fight that happened, a boxing bout that happened or a robbery that happened for real," he explained. "You know these things happened, and then it’s up to you to find out why they would have gone from that to that."

Knight confirmed that the second season is roughly 35% based on real-life. That formula adds a layer of authenticity to the show that it balances throughout with emotional story arcs to thread the varying narratives together, from Hezekiah Moscow’s (Malachi Kirby) journey from lion tamer to heavyweight champion to Mary Carr's (Erin Doherty) daring department store robberies as the leader of the notorious all-female crime gang the Forty Elephants.

In season 2, Hezekiah is seen dusting himself off from the aftermath of the fatal boxing bout at the end of the first season. Still reeling from the loss of his brother Alec (Francis Lovehall), he feels more far from home than ever before.

These emotions weigh him down, but they're also the spur for a new redemption arc that ties into Knight's belief about the timelessness of basic human motivations. "It doesn’t matter how far back in time you’re going," he says. "People were the same. The same motivations, the same emotions, jealousy and passions."

Partly due to Knight's focus on these themes, season 2 has a lot less boxing than the first chapter. That gives it a more relatable feel for those with less interest in pugilism, with the series referencing real historical events like the Matchgirls’ Strike of 1888 at the Bryant & May factory. "They used white phosphorus, which was poisonous and caused horrible diseases for the workers," Kirby noted. There are also echoes of Jack the Ripper that further ground the show in a layer of authenticity of the time.

(Image credit: Disney )

Doherty summed up the atmosphere of the period: "Life was fragile then, it was easily lost… When you understand how many people would just die on the streets, the stakes are incredibly high." Adding: "When you're trying to find the human in it all, it's not too hard because it was so terrifying and bleak."

For Darci Shaw, who plays supporting character Alice, it was digging into that bleak history that helped her to fully understand what was at stake. "I read quite a bit about the period and the state of women in homelessness at the time, and I think that just helps to understand the stakes and why these women [the Forty Elephants] are so confident and will do whatever it takes because they don't have a choice," she said.

Other supporting characters like Edward 'Treacle' Goodson are also given more depth. James Nelson-Joyce, who plays Goodson, credits Knight’s scripts for the character’s complexity in season 2. "Steven’s writing is unbelievable," he said. "You’re never playing one thing. There’s always layers, always something underneath what’s being said."

Despite one extremely heartbreaking storyline, Treacle and his brother Sugar Goodson (Stephen Graham) don't play as big of a role in the second season, leaving space for Hezekiah's and Mary's comeback act to take centre stage.

The stakes are no less serious, though. While there’s less boxing than in the first season of A Thousand Blows, the brawls remain brutal, but it's the characters' battles outside the ring that give the second season its dramatic force.

All six episodes of A Thousand Blows season 2 premiered on January 9, 2026, on Disney+ (internationally) and Hulu (US).

Follow TechRadar on Google News and add us as a preferred source to get our expert news, reviews, and opinion in your feeds. Make sure to click the Follow button!

And of course you can also follow TechRadar on TikTok for news, reviews, unboxings in video form, and get regular updates from us on WhatsApp too.

The Dell Pro Max 16 Plus is a little brother to the Dell Pro Max 18 Plus I previously reviewed. It trades a bit of screen real estate for a higher-quality display and the ability to be tucked away in a backpack for on-the-go use. While it may not fit in the tighter laptop bags, it will fit in larger, more robust backpacks.

The Pro Max 16 Plus delivers powerful performance, featuring an Intel Core Ultra 9 chip, an NVIDIA RTX Pro 5000 Blackwell GPU, and up to 128GB of RAM. Simply put, this is one of the best mobile workstations of its class.

The two Thunderbolt 5 ports showcase the drive for speed, power, and forward thinking for the Dell Pro Max 16 Plus. Dell knows that at this price point and with this power, not everyone can swap them out as quickly as cheaper laptops. So, they have made sure to future-proof this one as much as possible.

The Dell team also found a way to pack in an SD Card, a Smart Card reader, an RJ45 port, and a 280W power adapter to power up this beast of a machine. It's a compelling option for developers, engineers, data professionals, and generalists who need a single machine that serves as their all-in-one tool to handle all their workloads without breaking a sweat.

Dell Pro Max 16 Plus: Price and availability

(Image credit: Collin Probst // Future )

The Dell Pro Max 16 Plus has a base price of around $4000, available from both the Dell US and Dell UK websites. I'm also seeing it available from some online retailers.

As ever with Dell laptops, there are a huge number of configurations available, so prices will vary. In this review, I'm testing a model with the Intel Core Ultra 9 285HX (16 Cores, 24 Threads, 5.5 GHz Turbo, 55W), 128GB RAM, an NVIDIA RTX Pro 5000 Blackwell GPU, and 2TB SSD. All alongside the 16-inch OLED 3860x2400 with 500 nits max.

(Image credit: Collin Probst // Future )Dell Pro Max 16 Plus: Unboxing and First Impressions

After just reviewing the Dell | Pro Max 18 Plus, I knew this 16-inch model was going to be very similar. It's essentially 98% as good as the Dell Pro Max 18 Plus in a smaller shell, with an upgraded Tandem OLED 120Hz Display.

Unboxing, I realized that while the 2-inch difference, of course, makes a difference for screen size, the heft of this machine is still very prevalent. This is not an Ultrabook, it’s not a thin machine you toss in your bag and forget about.

And Dell isn’t ashamed of that at all. It proudly packs an insane amount of power into this unit, all while making it look pretty good and having superb usability in day-to-day operations.

Plus, with the ability to take in 280W, I want to be able to take that charger with me everywhere, but the sheer size of this brick is wild.

Dell Pro Max 16 Plus: Design & Build Quality

(Image credit: Collin Probst // Future )

This is a hefty computer. There’s no denying that. But at the same time, it is light enough and portable enough to take around. Unlike the larger 18-inch brother, which pretty much means yes, you can carry it. Still, only to and from a workspace, the 16-inch laptop is more portable and easier to toss in a backpack, take with you out of your workspace, and experience the power of portability.

While the Dell Pro 14 Premium is hyper portable and designed to be lightweight, and the Dell Pro Max 18 Plus is designed to be an entire barrage of horsepower crammed into one machine that can technically be called portable, the Dell Pro Max 16 Plus fits between the two, while still favoring the hefty side. I wouldn’t want to walk around holding this with one hand while typing with the other, but I wouldn’t mind closing this, heading to where I am going, and then popping this back open again on a table, desk, or even my lap.

In fact, comparing laptops, this one feels more like a more powerful Precision 5690. Naturally, the Precision runs on older architecture, but it’s the same size screen, a similar keyboard, and fills a similar amount of space dimension-wise on everything except thickness.

The Pro Max 16 Plus can fit in my beloved Nomatic Backpack, but is too large for sleeker backpacks like the Bellroy Transit, primarily due to the thickness on top of the 16-inch display. But then again, there are some mid-sized bags, like a few from Troubadour, that this fits in, so it really comes down to the design of the laptop pouch.

Dell has done a fantastic job at keeping ports where users want them. I’ve seen some laptops, specifically workstation-class ones, that place ports on the back of the computer, with the idea of having this machine pretty much just docked.

Thankfully, Dell takes portability seriously, even with this tier of powerhouse. Because of this, the ports are on the left and right of the machine: the RJ45, HDMI, 2x TB5, SD card, and smart card ports on the left, and the 2x USB-A, TB, and headphone jack on the right. For my testing and my use case, this layout is fantastic and has had no issues so far.

While Thunderbolt 5 is still pretty new, putting it in this kind of machine is a wise, future-forward move by Dell, putting the faster, newer, and more powerful ports in their top-of-the-line machines, knowing that people grabbing these are not swapping them out every few months or even years. Still, they have been running them hard for a while.

The last thing I’ll mention regarding design is the display. I understood the Dell Pro Max 18 Plus, as people aren’t really going to use that machine for display-first tasks. They’re not buying that kind of machine to have a great display. This one, though, has a beautiful 3860x2400 Tandem OLED with 120Hz refresh rates, though it’s limited to 500 nits.

While this is still not a machine that the average video editor would grab as their first choice, nor a pro-gamer or photographer, this can be a machine used by someone who either cares about having a high resolution display for the real estate on their screen, fitting more content, crisper, or it could be someone who is a bit of a generalist-specialist. I see this being perfect for engineers who also work in graphic design or UI design, or heavy CAD users, who want to make sure they see everything clearly.

Dell Pro Max 16 Plus: In use

(Image credit: Collin Probst // Future )Specs

CPU: Intel Core Ultra 9 285HX
GPU: NVIDIA RTX Pro 5000 Blackwell w/24GB
RAM: 128GB
Display: 16" Tandem OLED
Resolution: 3860x2400
Brightness: 500 nits

I’ve had this laptop in my rotation of machines for a whopping 113 days at the time of writing this paragraph. I’ve run some heavy workloads on it, I’ve used it for a few days in my real day-to-day world, I’ve used it for odds and ends, and I’ve run benchmarks all to see if this machine is what it says it is. So far, it has held up wonderfully to everything I have thrown at it.

Proving its might as one of the best laptops for programming, it’s blasted through local dev environments I have run on it, it doesn’t sweat at DBeaver repos, or pulling up large codebases in VS Code, it doesn’t even flinch. I dabbled in some local LLMs to try it, and I haven’t even been able to make the Intel Core i9 even sweat.

I pulled up large building schematics as CAD Files, I opened every productivity app I could think of and ran an absurd number of draining Chrome tabs, I was processing files, converting videos, transferring on and off of drives, and still, it’s great.

Don’t get me wrong, this won't be the best business laptop for every professional, due to its heft and power consumption, but for those who cannot or will not compromise on power and still want the option to bring their primary machine with them everywhere they may go, this might be the way to do it.

Compared to the Dell Pro 14 Premium, the Dell Pro 14 Premium focuses much more on battery life and portability than the Dell Pro Max 16 Plus. Still, you’re also getting true desktop-class power, now with a spectacular display too.

My model has an Intel Core i9-285HX with 16 cores, 24 threads, and 5.5 GHz turbo. It’s an absolute animal of a chip. Paired with the NVIDIA RTX 5000 Blackwell with 24GB, 128GB of RAM, and 2TB of SSD Storage, with the option of going up to 16TB on the device, which is truly absurd. I know of desktops drooling at these specs for productivity and performance. To get some numbers, I ran some 3DMark benchmark tests. For the CPU Profile Benchmark Tests, my max-threads test scored 11,717 points.

In everyday use, this machine has handled everything I have thrown at it, with room to spare. It’s got insane power for even the professional user, and gives power into the hands of the nomads without sacrifices.

The 16-inch size is great, offering excellent screen real estate without being too cumbersome, unlike the 18-inch counterpart.

Dell Pro Max 16 Plus: Final verdict

(Image credit: Collin Probst // Future )

Few laptops offer this level of power while still fitting within a portable form factor. The Dell Pro Max 16 Plus is designed for the everything-fractional-developer who has to be able to do anything and everything at a moment's notice. It's designed for the generalist who dabbles in multiple high-demand areas of computing power.

The mobile workstation is designed to handle your day-to-day tasks without requiring you to hand off processing power to another companion device or even a dongle. It's self-sufficient for most tasks.

For those who need this class of workhorse, few are rating better than this one right now. Yes, it's not perfect, but it's a phenomenal option for those looking.

Image 1 of 12

(Image credit: Collin Probst // Future )Image 2 of 12

(Image credit: Collin Probst // Future )Image 3 of 12

(Image credit: Collin Probst // Future )Image 4 of 12

(Image credit: Collin Probst // Future )Image 5 of 12

(Image credit: Collin Probst // Future )Image 6 of 12

(Image credit: Collin Probst // Future )Image 7 of 12

(Image credit: Collin Probst // Future )Image 8 of 12

(Image credit: Collin Probst // Future )Image 9 of 12

(Image credit: Collin Probst // Future )Image 10 of 12

(Image credit: Collin Probst // Future )Image 11 of 12

(Image credit: Collin Probst // Future )Image 12 of 12

(Image credit: Collin Probst // Future )

Founded in Germany in 1988, IONOS (formerly known as 1&1 Hosting) is a web hosting giant and one of the best web hosting providers with 2,000 employees, 10 data centers, more than 90,000 servers, and 8 million customer contracts worldwide.

Putting that into perspective, Datanyze says IONOS (still listed there as 1&1) has a 7.4% share of the web hosting market: that's ahead of everyone but Google Cloud (8.37%), Amazon AWS (20.16%), and GoDaddy (7.53%). In an industry crowded with service providers, it's a remarkable achievement and a testament to its resilience.

What types of hosting does IONOS offer? 

There are products covering every area (Image credit: 1&1 IONOS)

IONOS offers plans covering a wide range of hosting types and needs. Low-cost shared hosting, website builder plans, and managed WordPress plans are ideal for personal and small business sites.

More powerful VPS, cloud, and dedicated hosting have the resources to handle more demanding business and ecommerce sites (and if it's web stores you're after, there's managed WooCommerce hosting, too).

IONOS is also one of the few remaining service providers offering Windows-based ASP.NET hosting. It's also great for devs, thanks to its Deploy Now plans that make an easy 3-step build-and-deploy to GitHub process possible.

For high-flyers, there is also a pathway to the heavens via cloud and dedicated servers. The wide variety of options lets you choose between AMD- and Intel-based servers for either computer- or storage-focused plans.

There isn't the space to cover every detail of what IONOS has to offer, but scroll down, and we'll break down the company's key ranges, explore their pros and cons, and find out which products could work for you.

Shared hosting

(Image credit: Future)

Shared hosting is where several websites are hosted on the same server. It's cheap because server costs are shared across all accounts. However, with many sites sharing the same CPU, RAM, and network connection, performance may be poor. Still, a good shared hosting package has more than enough power for most low-traffic blogs, personal and small business sites.

IONOS offers four shared hosting plans, priced from $4 to $10, with the most basic ‘Essential’ plan offering 10 GB of storage and support for 1 website and 100 website visitors per minute. The highest ‘Ultimate’ plan adds a ton of resources, supports unlimited websites, offers unlimited storage, throws in Site Scan malware protection, a Content Delivery Network (CDN), and analytics to monitor your website traffic. Yet, it's still only $10 a month with a 3-year term.

All plans include free wildcard SSL, a free domain, daily backups and recovery, 24/7 support, and easy WordPress installation. Plus, they all also come with a 30-day money-back guarantee.

On the downside, IONOS doesn't offer free website migration to import your site from a previous host, and all plans include only one email account. It's a good one (2GB inbox, spam filtering), but that's no help, especially if you're a business that needs several email accounts.

If the solo email account is an issue, check out Hostinger and HostGator for their low starter prices, extended email abilities, and lengthy feature lists. Otherwise, what IONOS offers is a great deal from a cost-features balance point of view.

WordPress hosting

WordPress plans range from seriously cheap to very powerful (Image credit: Future)

WordPress is a hugely popular website creation tool that can be used to build everything from a simple personal site to a large, feature-packed international web store.

It’s worth noting that IONOS's unmanaged and managed WordPress hosting plans are essentially the same, priced between $5 and $12 a month on a 3-year term. The main features are similar, too: free domain, free SSL, and still no free migration.

Improved email support means the mid-range plan supports five email addresses, and the top plan supports 10. All plans include malware protection, geo-redundant data centers, and anti-phishing and anti-spam filters, and the top plan can remove any threats it finds.

The one significant downgrade is that, whereas shared hosting plans support unlimited websites, IONOS' managed WordPress plans allow only a single site, even on the highest-end plan.

WordPress-specific additions include the WP Assistant to build a simple initial site for you, automated WordPress updates, and free themes (pre-built website designs)—handy if you'd like to give your site a new look and feel. There’s also 24/7 support, including phone assistance, to help you navigate any issues or questions that arise.

All in all, these are all solid offerings and will work perfectly well if you're looking to master WordPress or bring your SEO tools to good use. However, if your needs are a little more advanced, consider Hostinger, which is the best WordPress hosting provider right now.

VPS hosting

(Image credit: Future)

VPS (Virtual Private Server) hosting improves on shared hosting by giving you exclusive access to the system resources provided. This has the potential to enhance performance significantly.

IONOS offers 6 VPS hosting plans, so there are plenty of options for you to choose from. All plans include unlimited traffic, free SSL, 24/7 support, firewall management, DDoS protection, the ability to host your VPS in the USA, UK, Germany, or Spain, and a 99.99% uptime guarantee. You can also get a professional backup and recovery solution from Acronis at 6.5 cents per GB per month.

The plans start with 1 CPU core, 1 GB RAM, and 10 GB of fast NVMe storage for a tiny $2 a month. That's cheap, but slightly underpowered for most users. The most powerful plan has 12 cores, 24 GB of RAM, and 640 GB of storage, and it's a good value at $30 per month for the first 6 months.

IONOS VPS plans give you the flexibility to deploy on either Linux (AlmaLinux, Debian, Rocky Linux, or Ubuntu). However, there is also an option for Windows VPS hosting, which costs much more, ranging from $11 to $76 per month on 3-year terms.

While IONOS offers high-quality VPS hosting plans, we’d also suggest considering Hostwinds. It provides more powerful high-end plans for heavyweight projects (up to 16 cores); uptime is 99.9999%; there's a 1Gbps connection to the outside world; and it's cheaper in many configurations.

Dedicated hosting

(Image credit: Future)

Dedicated hosting sits right at the top of the hosting tree. There's no sharing of RAM, network connection, or anything else, because the entire server is yours. It's the perfect choice for serious high-traffic sites.

IONOS is the best cheap dedicated hosting service, thanks to its excellent server deals that let you get started at just $41/month. This plan comes with 16GB RAM, 1TB HDD storage, and a 4-core Intel Xeon CPU with a respectable 3.9 GHz turbo boost. However, it’s worth noting that you will have to pay an additional $50 upfront as a setup fee.

All the regular plans are competitively priced, too, but the standout feature of IONOS dedicated hosting is the massive range of options available. Aside from choice in CPU provider, you can also opt for compute, storage, or GPU-focused plans. All plans also include a free domain, free SSL, anti-fishing, anti-spam, and firewall management.

These plans are good value and a decent choice for experienced business users who need speedy, reliable hosting but are also on a tight budget. However, a slight downside is the lack of configurability. Once you click the “Configure” button, you can only play around with RAM, storage, and the OS. If you are looking for a good amount of customization, check out Liquid Web or InterServer.

Cloud hosting

(Image credit: Future)

Cloud hosting offers increased reliability when compared to conventional web hosting. This is because websites or applications in cloud hosting are hosted on a network of interconnected servers, known as the cloud, instead of being hosted on a single physical server.

Genuine cloud hosting services come with auto-scaling (hands-off upgrading and downgrading of your hosting plan to meet unexpected spikes in website visitors) and geo-redundancy, where your website’s resources are shared between multiple data centers so that your website is up and running at all times.

Speaking of geo-redundancy, IONOS is one of the very few hosting services to expressly mention geo-redundancy as one of its benefits, even on its web hosting plans. The provider has 10 wholly-owned, geo-redundant ISO 27001 certified data centers; your websites will be up and running and won’t be affected due to maintenance or outages in any single location.

Prices for IONOS Cloud vary greatly depending on what type of cloud services you choose to focus on. For example, dedicated core (server core) hosting starts at $0.0037/core/hour. Block-Storage for managed Kubernetes starts at $0.0533per 30 days/GB.

In addition to being a top choice for small businesses, IONOS’s cloud offerings are also suitable for large companies thanks to its premium-level 3XL, 4XL, and 5XL plans. The top-tier plan ($420/month) includes 24 vCores, 48 GB of RAM, and 480 GB of SSD storage. Storage is a little less, though, especially for the price.

IONOS offers the best uptime with its cloud plans: 99.998%. This is on par with industry leaders Liquid Web and OVHcloud.

Does IONOS have a website builder? 

(Image credit: Future)

If you don't have a website or much idea of how to make one, then a website builder is the simplest solution. Most come with a range of pre-built site designs called templates, and all you have to do is choose one you like, drag and drop elements you need on a page (text, images, maps, videos, contact forms), then customize the site with your own content.

IONOS has a simple website builder (it also features on our list of the best website builder platforms) with a 17,000+ royalty-free image library, a free domain, a single email account (yes, just one, with varying storage), and free SSL. Where it really shines as a website builder, though, is its selection of themes; it offers many sophisticated template designs. Even better, the templates are organized by industry and type, making it easy to find the proper layout for your website.

Additionally, IONOS has hopped on the AI wagon and now offers AI-generated websites via its website builder. As they claim, it's minimum effort while providing maximum results. They've even thrown in an AI logo generator.

The Starter plan is cheap at just $6 a month for the first six months, $12/month on renewal. The mid-level Plus plan adds an AI image generator, an AI SEO text generator, site analytics, and integration with business apps, such as booking and review systems. It offers unbeatable value for money: $1 for 6 months, $18/month on renewal.

IONOS’s website builder is great for both small businesses and scalable businesses, thanks to its multilingual translation. This can translate a site’s content into 62 different languages. Not only that, it’s even possible to have up to 25 different languages on a site at any given time.

Furthermore, you can add eCommerce support to all plans—no initial cost at all on the Starter and Plus plans, but an extra $15 on the highest plan. All plans include payment and shipping support, popular payment methods, and allow selling via Facebook and Instagram.

Can you build a web store with IONOS? 

(Image credit: IONOS)

IONOS's website builder supports building a web store; then you can use its online store plans to sell up to an unlimited amount of physical and digital products. All plans come with just one email (a similar pain point as the other plans), free domain, competitor tracking, integrated payment and shipping methods, and the ability to sell directly on Facebook and Instagram.

Here, too, the best value-for-money plan is the Plus plan at $1 a month for the first six months, $30 a month on renewal. You can sell up to 5,000 physical products, get site analytics, and enjoy access to Google Ads and other Google products as well as an AI text generator and a mobile app for shop management.

Upgrade to the Pro plan to be able to sell digital products, where you will also get advanced product SEO. The highest-end plan is priced at $42 a month for the first six months of the annual plan, $92 afterwards. That's a better choice for larger stores, or if you have real ecommerce ambitions.

Other eCommerce options include using popular platforms such as WooCommerce, PrestaShop or Magento to build your store.

All in all, this is a decent set of plans covering just about every type of user, but there are still other options worth considering. HostGator's Gator and Hostinger's website builder support building basic web stores at minimal cost; Wix has better store templates and many more features, and Bluehost's WooCommerce plans include an array of business-friendly marketing and SEO extras.

How fast is IONOS? 

For speed testing, we use a WordPress benchmarking tool and Siege. The former lets us see how well WordPress runs on the hosting plan, while the latter load-tests the system to see how well it stands up under pressure.

WordPress benchmark testing

CPU & Memory

Operations with large text data

10

Random binary data operations

8.71

Recursive mathematical calculations

8.92

Iterative mathematical calculations

9.5

Filesystem

Filesystem write ability

8.81

Local file copy and access speed

8.91

Small file IO test

9.34

Database

Importing large amount of data to database

0.85

Simple queries on single table

2.61

Complex database queries on multiple tables

5.1

Object Cache

Persistent object cache enabled

0

Network

Network download speed test

10

Overall

Your server score

7.2

Our WordPress core benchmark tests showed that IONOS performed remarkably well in CPU and memory performance. These are two highly essential areas for WordPress performance. However, it lagged slightly behind in database operations. This means that at higher traffic volumes, database performance is likely to be the bottleneck for your website.

Overall, though, these performance numbers put IONOS ahead of many competitors in the shared hosting space. Based on performance alone, I'd say their shared hosting plans are at least worth a try.

Siege test

5

9

15

Transactions

4370

6835

5839

Availability

100

99.88

99.1

Elapsed time

299.25

299.97

299.64

Data transactions

247.82

385.03

325.24

Response time

0.34

0.39

0.76

Transaction rate

14.6

22.79

19.49

Throughput

0.83

1.28

1.09

Concurrency

4.99

8.96

14.77

Successful transactions

4370

6835

5839

Failed transactions

0

8

50

Longest transaction

2.59

3.88

12.3

Shortest transaction

0.13

0.14

0.15

The standard shared web hosting plan we tested on states that up to 100 visitors can be handled at once, but based on transaction totals, availability ratings, and response times, this claim is slightly dubious. Even with 9 concurrent users, we observed several failed transactions appearing in our test results.

Claims notwithstanding, the overall load test results indicate that IONOS shared hosting performs better under pressure than the average web host. There are indeed failed transactions, but they occur less frequently than we're used to and, honestly, are pretty good where shared hosting is concerned.

How easy is IONOS to use? 

(Image credit: IONOS)

Log in to many web hosts, and you'll find familiar industry-standard platforms: WHM to manage your accounts, cPanel for all your key website management tasks, and Softaculous to install and manage WordPress reliably. That's generally good news, partly because they're top-quality tools (which is why they became industry standards), but also because if you've any experience of web hosting, you're likely to know how to use these already.

IONOS ditches all these in favor of its own custom control panels. That has some advantages (it probably saves a pile of cash in license fees, helping IONOS keep its prices low), but it also means even expert users will have to spend some time exploring the system to find the functions they need.

This isn't as easy as we'd like. Functions aren't always organized intuitively, and everyday tasks, such as logging into a WordPress site, took longer to find than we expected.

IONOS' website search engine helps a little. Enter 'WordPress', say, and it doesn't just list top WordPress support articles. A 'Product and Actions' includes control panel tasks such as 'Install WordPress', and clicking these links takes you directly to that page. It's a good idea, but it doesn't quite work everywhere. We tried to find the right keywords to show a WordPress newbie how to log in to the dashboard, for instance, but never quite managed it.

If you're an experienced user who makes extensive use of low-level cPanel and other features, this could easily be an issue. Even once you've found the functions you need, there's no guarantee they'll deliver precisely the same results.

But if you're only after the hosting management basics - configure your domain, set up some email addresses, install WordPress - then this may not matter very much. Sure, it might take you a few extra minutes to master the control panel basics, but after that, you'll use IONOS much like any other host.

What is IONOS support like? 

IONOS offers a massive amount of self-help content in its knowledgebase. (Image credit: Future)

IONOS offers support via its website knowledgebase, phone, live chat and email. The support site ‘Help Center’ has a considerable number of articles, sensibly organized into categories such as WordPress, Email, Domains, Hosting, Online Marketing, My Account, SSL Certificates, and loads more. Some of these articles are a little short, but there's a lot of valuable information here.

Unusually, telephone support doesn't simply mean 'dial this international number and be left on hold wondering what this is going to cost.' You can book an appointment and have the company call you. When we tried this at 12:10pm, the site offered 15-minute slots from 1pm, so you probably won't have to wait long for a response. However, if that's not convenient, you can book up to 4 days in advance from 8 am to 8 pm.

We set up an appointment, and sure enough, a call arrived within 30 seconds of our starting slot time. The agent listened carefully to our query about installing WordPress on subdomains, clearly explained what we needed to do, and sent us additional advice via email. Impressive.

IONOS also offers a shocking amount of localization in its support efforts. It offers 14 phone numbers for local support in different countries. Furthermore, if you click on the country’s name - Germany, for example - the entire support site, including all the help articles, loads in German. This is really good.

IONOS offers a massive amount of self-help content in its knowledgebase. (Image credit: Future)

One notable point was its Live Chat support. The service was down when we tried to use it. However, that's not the point here. When services are down, most hosts aren't as transparent and often leave customers wondering what's gone wrong. IONOS was upfront about its Live Chat being down, which earned our respect.

Final verdict

IONOS cuts a few corners with its shared hosting plans (no free migration, only one email account, below-par performance), but they're still great value. If you need more, there's a wide range of WordPress plans, and the company has rock-solid VPS, dedicated, and cloud hosting products to cater to everyone, from enthusiastic amateurs to SMB and enterprise users.

There’s also a handy and feature-rich website builder on offer, plus startups and small businesses have the option to benefit from IONOS experts, who will build a professional online store or website for them.

Sign up for 1&1 Ionos US deals here.

Sign up for 1&1 Ionos UK deals here.

IONOS FAQsWhat payment types does IONOS support?

IONOS accepts payment by card and PayPal.

Does IONOS offer refunds?

IONOS has a general 30-day money-back period covering most hosting products and a handful of other services (check the small print for the precise details).

Domains, SSL certificates, cloud and bare metal servers are not included.

Does IONOS have an uptime guarantee?

IONOS has a 99.99% uptime guarantee for its hosted web pages. If the company doesn't hit the target, you can claim an account credit to match the real downtime (90 minutes downtime, your account is credited with the cost of 90 minutes hosting).

At first glance, that looks better than most providers, who only offer a 99.9% uptime guarantee. But limiting compensation to the actual downtime isn't as generous. The top-of-the-range shared hosting plan is $8 a month in the first year, for instance, or $0.263 a day. If your site is down for eight hours, that could be a disaster for you, but even IONOS admits responsibility, you'll get just $0.09. It's not even worth your time asking.

ScalaHosting 'only' offers a 99.9% guarantee, but if its uptime is less than 99% (that's only seven hours, 18 minutes and 17 seconds in a month) you'll qualify for a whole month. That's still not a huge amount, and it's best to have no downtime at all, but we like the principle: if the service doesn't hit a certain standard, you effectively get it for free.

Host your site at IONOS with a choice of data centers (Image credit: Future)Where are IONOS's data centers?

IONOS has ten data centers located across the USA, Germany, the UK, and Spain. The company lets you choose your preferred data center for some of its higher-end products. You can't pick a data center if you're buying regular shared hosting, for instance, but you do get the option with VPS plans.

What is my IONOS IP address?

Log into your IONOS control panel.

Click Domains and SSL, then find and click your domain in the list.

Click the DNS tab.

Scroll down and look for a record with the type A, the host name @ (or www) and the service 'Webhosting.'

Your website server's IP address is displayed in the Value column for that A record.

What are IONOS's nameservers?

If you sign up for IONOS hosting but are using a domain managed elsewhere, you may need to find IONOS' nameservers to connect the domain to your hosting plan. Sounds complicated, but fortunately it only takes a few clicks.

Log into your IONOS control panel.

Click Domains and SSL, then find and click your domain in the list.

Click the Nameserver tab and the control panel displays the IONOS nameservers for your account.

(Image credit: IONOS)How do I cancel an IONOS product?

Log into the IONOS control panel.

Click the Account icon top-right, and select Contracts & Subscriptions.

Find the plan you'd like to cancel, click the gear icon to its right and choose Manage Contract.

Click 'Show Cancellation Options' and decide what you'd like to cancel: an entire contract, or specific add-ons only.

If you got a free domain with your plan and don't need it, select the 'Change domain expiration dates' option to disable automatic renewal.

The X-Chair X-Tech is a clean and professional ergonomic chair with a few tricks up its sleeve.

An executive-level seat from water-resistant mesh, vegan leather, it's built for medium- to larger-framed individuals, with a fairly deep seat and a 275 lb weight capacity. Overall I found it a highly functional, comfortable seat with dynamic lumbar support and mobile armrests as you'll typically find on the best office chairs at this price-point.

But if the chair's name - the X-Tech - didn't give it away, there's something more going on here. Where it diverges is that it features a heated, cooling, and massaging lumbar section.

X-Chair X-Tech: Price and availability

(Image credit: Collin Probst // Future )

The X-Chair X-Tech has had its prices change a few times since I started testing it. As of January 2026, this chair is $1,568 (discounted from $1845) on the official X-Chair website.

Now, that's putting the chair into the same sort of price-tag territory as the Herman Miller Embody and Steelcase Leap (and then some). So the real question for buyers is, are the extra temperature control features worth the outlay?

Additional extras are good - it's available in a range of styles, colors, and configurations. For this review, I tested the Quicksilver Brisa / Black ATR ELEMAX Model, with FS 360 arms, and locking FS wheels.

What’s interesting is that the X-tech is a lot like another model I reviewed: the X-Chair X4. The X4 was a build-your-own kind of style, while this one comes fully loaded with everything you could want.. Now, I pretty much just specced the X4 model to about the same degree, but it’s still worth noting.

(Image credit: Collin Probst // Future )X-Chair X-Tech: Design & Build Quality

(Image credit: Collin Probst // Future )

Right off the bat, this chair looks very similar to the X4. Which, of course, makes sense as they are near the same item once you've built out the X4 with all the optional extras.

This really is just a curated version of the X4 Leather, combining the material choices, colorways, and upgrades into a single package for executives. No decision fatigue, no assistant taking their best guess, no time wasted deciding on exactly what choose.

What I appreciate about the design is that it could fit in a home office, a boardroom, an executive suite, or an apartment corner. Anywhere you place it, the X-Tech will fit in with the surroundings, especially with the option to choose materials that match your desired look.

I felt the materials had a quality look and feel (as you'd expect for the price), and the two-tone design language of the X-Tech creates a modern aesthetic.

Assembly was easy enough, the frame feels robust and well-built, not just patting myself on the back for assembly, but the joins, the bolts, and everything feel sturdy, like you’d expect from an expensive chair.

All in all, assembly took about 25 minutes solo, which is about average for most chairs, and it's straightforward enough that nothing required second pair of hands.

X-Chair X-Tech: In use

(Image credit: Collin Probst // Future )

This chair has been in my fleet for a little over 90 days at the time of writing this. It's been used by myself, my team, and my extended family members over the recent holidays.

We all agree that this chair is spectacular; the only debate was who this chair was really for. Some executives at mid-sized or smaller organizations may not want to incur this kind of cost for a chair. Still, those at larger firms will probably go with even more expensive office chairs simply for the brand recognition.

My kids, on the other hand, think that this chair is for the boss, plain and simple. Or just any old guy, according to my brilliant 4-year-old daughter — hurtful, as I sit back in this chair writing out these sentences after a day of playing this New Year's Day, enjoying the massaging and heat function.

And that brings me to the real selling point of this chair.

Not only do the heating and massaging functions work well, but so does the cooling function. I’m someone who runs hot 99% of the time, so having a chair that can cool me down while working is great, especially in the summer months. And also ideal for those who work in an office where the climate is controlled by someone who thinks they should be able to feel like they are in the sun while at work.

I’ve sat in this chair for meetings, for several-hour lock-in sessions, and for all-nighter writing sessions. I’ve been in the zone, leaning forward, kicked back and relaxed, enjoying the massaging function, and I even pulled this chair up during the holidays for an extra seat, and had to fight my uncle with severe back pain to get it back.

This chair has been through it, and it still functions and looks just as good as it did on day one. No matter the position or person, the chair seems to adjust to what is needed, not locking you into what it wants, but adjusting to what you need.

For those really long working sessions, taking a few minutes to kick back and turn on the massager is a welcome treat.

My only real problem here is that I do wish that the controls for this were a bit easier to access. I memorized the button locations pretty quickly, but it’s not the easiest to get set up the first several times until you can learn them.

X-Chair X-Tech: Final verdict

(Image credit: Collin Probst // Future )

While this may not be the biggest of names of chairs, and it may not be the massive leatherback executive chair we see in cheesy movies, the X-tech ticks a lot of boxes. It's comfortable and attractively design - the only issue being the button placement, which is easier to overcome after a few uses.

If you are a business professional who wants an excellent chair for their home office space, their cubicle, corner office, or conference room, and you have some coin to spend on something that will treat you right, the X-Chair X-Tech is absolutely worth considering, especially if you desire a heated, cooled, and massaging lumbar.

Image 1 of 9

(Image credit: Collin Probst // Future )Image 2 of 9

(Image credit: Collin Probst // Future )Image 3 of 9

(Image credit: Collin Probst // Future )Image 4 of 9

(Image credit: Collin Probst // Future )Image 5 of 9

(Image credit: Collin Probst // Future )Image 6 of 9

(Image credit: Collin Probst // Future )Image 7 of 9

(Image credit: Collin Probst // Future )Image 8 of 9

(Image credit: Collin Probst // Future )Image 9 of 9

(Image credit: Collin Probst // Future )

For more office furniture, check out our round-up of the best standing desks we've ever tried.

There's a running joke in the TV and movies industry that January is when studios release their 'clangers' (i.e. projects that will undoubtedly flop) – but just nine days into 2026, new Netflix movie People We Meet on Vacation is busting the myth.

If you've heard the title before, that's because Netflix is adapting the smash-hit 2021 romance novel by Emily Henry. However, if you're a diehard 'Vacationer' (that's what I'm going to call the fan base), you'll notice some major changes... but I promise the sizzling and playful romantic chemistry between Poppy (Emily Bader) and Alex (Tom Blyth) hasn't gone anywhere.

Even the core storyline itself feels refreshing as a rom-com concept. Wild and bashful Emily is the polar opposite of reserved and anxious Alex, but after meeting at university, the pair spend years of their friendship having adventures while traveling the world. They always try to spend one week of their summer vacation together no matter where life takes them... but as they get old, life makes things a lot more complicated.

Personally, I love that we're starting a new year with the energy that platonic love is just as important (if not more) as romantic love. People We Meet on Vacation does eventually inject the rom into rom-com, but the most of the storyline, we're following two people learning to love each other for exactly who they are, and that isn't confined to romance.

Yes, the dreaded homogenous 'Netflix look' that the streamer molds all of its project into is back, and there's nothing note-worthy in its construction. But frankly, I don't think we need any additional razzle dazzle here.

People We Meet on Vacation relies solely on its cast – and you'll fall in love with them

I cannot sing the praises of Bader and Blyth highly enough – even their surnames put together sound like the perfect double act. For Bader, it's a chance to shine in a leading role that could have been easily given to the likes of Sofia Carson or Zoey Deutch. Instead of taking the lazy route, Netflix has been more inventive and daring in its casting, and that has a colossal payoff.

As for Blyth, I think he's more than earned the right to have a bit of fun on screen. After Plainclothes, Wasteman and The Hunger Games: The Ballad of Songbirds & Snakes, it's almost as much of a holiday for us to watch him take on a light-hearted role. Blyth exquisitely toes the line between standoffish and fun-loving, letting his guard down enough to be open to what the world around him has to offer.

Together, they're dynamite. If I'd seen them filming a scene while walking down the street, I'd be fully convinced that the pair hadn't only known each other for years, but were truly head over heels. Chemistry isn't something that can be cast or manufactured, and that makes People We Meet on Vacation all the more special.

Everything comes together naturally, whether that's the budding relationship between our lead duo, the ease of following them around the globe or the ability to be fully invested in their fights and grievances. Combined with Henry's unique take on constructing a romance story, and you've got a mighty end product.

Book lovers, be warned of some changes

Cheers to a good rom-com, guys. (Image credit: Netflix)

Now for the slightly less brilliant news: there are noticeable changes to the original book. It should almost go without saying that a lot has been left on the cutting room floor – transforming a 400-page book into a movie under two hours means there's going to be some casualties. It's nothing that impedes the storytelling... just don't be too disappointed if your favorite travel scene didn't make the cut.

Without giving the game away, the changes are mostly location-based. To a degree, this is logical, given that it might simply be easier to film in certain places than others. However, there's also a big change surrounding how Poppy and Alex eventually end up at David's (Miles Heizer) wedding.

Really, this is only going to bother those who loved the book, as objectively, you'd never be able to tell that anything is out of place. Still, at least we've got a hilariously-placed cameo from Lucien Laviscount (Alfie, for Emily in Paris fans), to smooth over any issues.

People We Meet on Vacation doesn't have wow-factor, but it doesn't need to. In the Netflix romance canon, it stands alone just by doing the basics incredibly well, with an original twist. Binge it this weekend under a pile of blankets while pretending you're on holiday, and you've got the picture-perfect weekend.

Follow TechRadar on Google News and add us as a preferred source to get our expert news, reviews, and opinion in your feeds. Make sure to click the Follow button!

And of course you can also follow TechRadar on TikTok for news, reviews, unboxings in video form, and get regular updates from us on WhatsApp too.

Altra Timp 5 Boa: Two-minute reviewGet Fit for '26

This article is part of our Get Fit for '26 series, in which our writers talk about the wellness and fitness challenges and experiences they've taken on, and the ones set to shape the year ahead. You can read all the articles in the series here.

It's safe to say that the Altra Timp 5 Boa trail running shoes stand out from all the other pairs I've used over the years, including from the likes of Nike, Asics and Inov-8 among others.

The Inov-8 Trailfly G270 V2's are typically a sweet spot for me as someone who lives in the countryside with trails on my doorstep who wants a lightweight but durable, mostly off-road shoe. So how do the Timp 5 Boa trail shoes compare, and could they be one of the best running shoes for my broad feet?

Well, they certainly are an altogether different shoe from those Inov-8's. Altra's hallmarks are a particularly wide toe box and zero drop – two features I appreciate and drew my attention to the brand in the first place.

However, it's the unique lacing system of the 'Boa' version of the Timp 5's that peaked my curiosity. Swapping out traditional laces, there's a dial which tightens and loosens the lace, enabling quick and precise adjustments. Kind of like ski boots.

I was concerned how effective this system would be, expecting the lace to regularly work its way loose, but those worries were unfounded following multiple 5 mile trails runs over several weeks, tackling hills and all manner of terrain.

Push in the dial, rotate, and the lace tightens. Pull out the dial and the whole lace loosens. The unique lacing system is super easy. (Image credit: Tim Coleman)

Quick and micro adjustments are a doddle with this lacing system, which was a godsend given that I broke two fingers during the review period (unrelated, I promise – I stacked it in a skate park when rolling back the years on my daughter's scooter), and had limited use of one hand.

I've consequently lived in the Timp 5 Boa's because traditional laces were particularly tricky, but this lacing dial is manageable with one hand.

I found the Altra Timp 5 Boa's a little slow for running, but they are supremely comfortable for long days on your feet. (Image credit: Tim Coleman)

I like the look of the Timp 5 Boas too, even if the upper mesh is hard to clean after muddy trail runs to smarten them up for use afterwards as a day shoe.

And at 10oz / 286g, they are heavier than the average running shoe – I found them slow going for running (compared to those light Inov-8 shoes), so my pace was a little slower than I would like.

I'm used to zero drop shoes, but I did get a small strain on my achilles after totting up the miles in those Altra shoes. You might not be affected in the same way.

Image 1 of 5

(Image credit: Tim Coleman)Image 2 of 5

(Image credit: Tim Coleman)Image 3 of 5

(Image credit: Tim Coleman)Image 4 of 5

(Image credit: Tim Coleman)Image 5 of 5

(Image credit: Tim Coleman)

The stretch 'sock' fabric cut into the outside of my ankle on occasion, too, if I had the tightening set incorrectly to my feet. Again, that might not be an issue for you.

I don't think I've find my new fast trail shoes, sadly, but the Timp 5 Boa's have otherwise been supremely comfortable and are clearly durable. These are my new top pick for long days on my feet, and I will definitely get a lot of use from them.

The Altra Timp 5 Boa's cost $185 / £155 on the Altra website, but you can also find discounted prices at other leading retailers – I've seen as much as 40% off even at the time of writing, which feels more reasonable.

Altra Timp 5 Boa: Specifications

Component

Altra Timp 5 Boa

Weight:

10oz / 286g

Upper:

Quick-dry air mesh

Midsole

Altra EGO™ MAX

Outsole

Vibram® Megagrip

Heel-to-toe drop

0mm

Altra Timp 5 Boa: Scorecard

Category

Comment

Score

Value

No discount at the time of writing at Altra, and relatively pricey

4/5

Design

Wide toebox gives room for feet to breathe, zero heel drop might not suit all

4.5/5

Features

Unique lacing system works a charm for micro adjustments and snug support, Vibram midsole adds durability

4.5/5

Performance

Supremely comfortable, but not the quickest running shoe

4/5

(Image credit: Tim Coleman)Altra Timp 5 Boa: Should I buy?Buy it if...

You have wide feet

The wide toe box is designed for people with wide feet and is certainly spacious.

You want a comfortable every day shoe

Slighly heavy for running, the cushioned Timp 5 Boa's are arguably a better pick for long days on your feet.

Don't buy it if...

You want a high speed running shoe

At 10oz / 286g, these are heavier than average shoes, not PB-assisting ones.

You want a smart-looking running shoe

I love the lacing system and overall like the look, but the hard-to-clean mesh isn't ideal for a trail shoe.

Also consider

Inov-8 Trailfly G270 V2

If you want a faster trail running shoe, I recommend the Inov-8 Trailfly G270 V2 instead – it's lighter, extremely durable and likewise has a zero drop.

Read my full Inov-8 Trailfly G270 V2 review

(Image credit: Tim Coleman)Altra Timp 5 Boa: how I tested

• Used as my primary everyday shoe and running shoe for 1 month
• My typical running distance was around 25km per week
• I ran on mixed terrain; technical trails, footpaths and roads, flat and hilly, and used these as day to day shoes

I pretty much lived in the Altra Timp 5 Boa's for a month, using them as my every day shoe for walking, hiking and commuting. I also completed numerous trail runs – about three per week for a month, with a typical weekly distance of around 25kms.

I live in the hilly countryside and most of the running I do covers mixed terrain and run in all kinds of weather. I've run on trails, footpaths and roads; wet and dry; flat and hilly. Just about any scenario you can imagine.

First reviewed: December 2025