Tech accessory company JOURNEY has just announced its latest innovation: NOVA, a 3-in-1 wireless charging station designed to blend seamlessly into any home. Tired of the clunky, utilitarian look of most chargers, JOURNEY set out to create a device that was as aesthetically pleasing as it was functional. The result is NOVA, a charger that looks more like a piece of modern art than a piece of tech.
What makes NOVA so unique is its “anti-tech” design. Instead of the usual plastic and metal, NOVA boasts a split-material design and a minimalist exterior that complements a variety of home decor styles. Think of it as a stylish vase or a sleek sculpture that just happens to charge your devices.
But NOVA isn’t just a pretty face. Underneath its stylish exterior lies a powerful charging station capable of juicing up your phone, Apple Watch, and AirPods simultaneously. It’s also Qi2 and Apple-certified, meaning you can enjoy fast 15W wireless charging for compatible smartphones.
NOVA’s key features:
Simultaneous 3-in-1 charging: Charge your phone, Apple Watch, and AirPods all at once.
Fast charging: Enjoy 15W fast wireless charging for Qi2-enabled phones and fast charging for Apple Watch and AirPods.
Anti-tech aesthetic: NOVA’s minimalist design and vertical structure make it a stylish addition to any space.
User-friendly features: A weighted base for stability, a rear flip-open Apple Watch charger, an LED status indicator light, and a touch-on night light.
NOVA is available for pre-order starting October 17th in the US, UK, and Australia, with shipping beginning on October 28th. It will retail for $139.99 (US), £119.99 (UK), and $189.99 (Australia). Early shoppers can currently get 20% during pre-order period using our links below.
As we dive into another weekend, it’s the perfect time to explore a curated selection of standout products that can enhance your daily life. This week, we’ve handpicked a variety of innovative items that blend technology with everyday practicality, offering something for everyone.
Whether you’re looking for the latest gadgets or unique essentials, our Weekend Recommender has you covered for a refreshing and enjoyable experience.
NANK Runner Diver2 Pro
NANK Runner Diver2 Pro headphones offer an innovative solution for music lovers who enjoy water sports or biking in noisy environments. With a unique adjustable ear hook design, you can easily switch between open-ear and noise-canceling modes, allowing for a customizable listening experience. Their impressive IP69 waterproof rating ensures durability, making them suitable for swimming and diving.
These headphones come equipped with Bluetooth 5.4 technology for seamless pairing with devices and feature 32GB of built-in memory for storing your favorite tracks. The ergonomic design ensures comfort, making them compatible with swim caps, goggles, or helmets. A strong battery life allows for up to 10 hours of continuous play, and with fast charging, just a quick 10-minute charge provides two hours of additional use. Ideal for swimmers, divers, and outdoor enthusiasts, the Runner Diver2 Pro enhances your workouts with reliable sound quality and convenience. $153
Ultimate Pet Nutrition
Nutra Bites Freeze-Dried Raw Bison Liver Dog Treats offer a simple yet nutritious option for dog owners looking to reward their pets. Made from 100% bison liver, these treats are protein-rich and designed to appeal to your dog’s natural instincts, making them perfect for training or as a meal topper. The freeze-drying process locks in essential nutrients and flavors without any harsh cooking methods, ensuring a tasty bite that dogs love. Developed by renowned veterinarian Dr. Gary Richter, these treats prioritize quality by avoiding fillers, grains, and artificial additives.
Pet owners who want to provide their dogs with high-value rewards will appreciate Nutra Bites. The natural aroma and taste replicate what dogs might have eaten in the wild, enhancing their enjoyment. These treats are suitable for dogs of all sizes, making them a convenient addition to any dog’s diet. $25
Bird Buddy Smart Hummingbird Feeder
Bird Buddy Smart Hummingbird Feeder combines technology with nature, allowing bird enthusiasts to capture stunning images of birds feeding in their backyard. The AI-powered camera captures high-resolution photos and streams live video, sending delightful postcards to your phone whenever new visitors arrive. It’s a great addition for anyone interested in birdwatching or photography.
This weather-resistant feeder is designed with birds’ safety in mind and features recyclable plastic housing. Users can easily set it up via a user-friendly app that allows sharing with friends and family. The feeder operates on a 2.4 GHz Wi-Fi connection and boasts a battery life of up to a month, depending on usage. Perfect for outdoor lovers and families, Bird Buddy makes observing and learning about local wildlife both easy and enjoyable. Pre-orders are available now, with shipping expected in May 2024.
GPX Movie+
The GPX Movie+ projector turns any gathering into a cinematic experience, projecting your favorite movies, games, and photos onto its included 120-inch foldable screen. With a native resolution of 1280 x 720, it supports a range of formats, including 480p, 720p, and 1080i. The built-in Bluetooth wireless transmitter enables easy audio streaming to compatible devices, while the integrated speakers supply decent sound. For those looking for an enhanced audio experience, connecting additional speakers is a seamless option.
Key features include HDMI, USB, and AV ports for versatile media connections, along with keystone angle correction for optimal image adjustment. The projector is compact and mountable, designed for both indoor and outdoor use. With its 20,000-hour LED bulb life and a display distance of 3.9 to 12.1 feet, it’s perfect for families, casual gamers, or anyone who loves entertaining. A user-friendly remote control and a 90-day warranty add to its appeal. $230
The PLAUD NotePin is an innovative AI note-taking device that aims to enhance productivity for professionals across various industries. Designed as a lightweight and ultra-thin wearable, it can be used as a necklace, wristband, clip, or pin, making it versatile for any setting. It functions by recording, transcribing, and summarizing conversations, allowing users to focus on high-value tasks without the distraction of mundane note-taking.
With remarkable battery life—40 days on standby and up to 20 hours of continuous recording—the NotePin ensures that no detail is missed. High-definition audio quality coupled with speaker labels helps keep notes organized and easy to reference. Data security is prioritized through industry-leading encryption and a built-in “Find My” feature, offering peace of mind to users.
This device is ideal for sales professionals, educators, engineers, and anyone frequently engaged in meetings and discussions, providing a seamless way to manage information effortlessly. $169
We recently put the new security cameras by Baseus to the test, and while there were a few aspects that could be improved, they clearly demonstrated significant potential. Baseus is back with impressive innovations, featuring enhanced cameras and solar-powered capabilities. Dive into our comprehensive review of the Baseus Security S1 Pro Outdoor Cameras and discover our full insights.
Design
The initial impression out of the box makes one thing readily evident: solar panels. The solar array is immediately found flanking the entire length of the top portion of each S1 Pro camera. It’s not a huge knock, but I was surprised by how prevalent the amount of surface area covered was. Honestly, it’s probably a good thing, allowing for maximum solar absorption to keep the cameras charged.
Other than the new power systems, the S1 Pro cameras have an impressive array of lenses and sensors. There’s an 8x digital zoom telephoto lens. This is capable of up to 65 feet of zooming. To the right of this is a 100-lumen spotlight with color night vision for up to 26 feet. Next, you will see a proximity IR sensor with 120 degrees of motion detection. Finally, there’s a wide-angle lens with 3K clarity and a 120-degree field of view.
Setup
Getting the cameras installed and synced with the Baseus Security app is pretty straightforward. This process is pretty much identical to our N1 Outdoor cameras review. The included toolkit has a mounting bracket and appropriate screws to get the S1 Pro cameras positioned around your home. Judging from the hardware, you can also simply use the N1 installation points to upgrade to the S1 Pro if you are moving from the previous generation and not starting from scratch.
The same is true for the app experience. Once you get the cameras charged up for an initial charge, you are just a few steps away from having the system up. You get a nice wizard to walk you through adding both the Home station and the S1 Pro cameras. Afterward, you should see your cameras in the app’s main feed with live views a click away.
Notifications and performance
I’m happy to report that the S1 Pro cameras from Baseus seem to have a better Wi-Fi range when compared to the N1 series. I was unable to add a second camera in the eave of my home previously due to it dropping connection to the base station, but the S1 Pro held a consistent signal that allowed this with no issues.
Notifications have been solid as well. You have a few controls to configure how and what kind of motion you want to ping your connected phone, but overall I’ve found these interactions to be pretty good. I still get a few motion notifications that drop me into the home view of the app instead of the live view, but it’s not a major issue.
One knock has to be mentioned here, though. The time between opening a notification and getting a live view of your cameras is terribly slow. Like painstakingly so. Many times it freezes the feed completely, and you’re better off force closing the app and then reopening the live feed from the app home view. Baseus needs to focus on optimizing the transition here to make this acceptable.
Internal storage of the home station shouldn’t be an issue either. This NAS-like design comes with 16GB of storage onboard but can be expanded with a removable 2.5-inch SSD bay. The expansion is capped at a massive 16TB of storage, so it’s safe to say if you need to add hard drive space later, it’s as large as your wallet will allow.
The hardware combination lends itself to dual fields of view via the app. You get a “zoomed-in look” and a wide view. This has been a great way to get two views of my side gate and yard. The zoomed-in view at the bottom of the feed shows a maximum view of just my gate. Conversely, the wide view shows me most of my yard and sidewalk on the same side of the house.
Battery life
Thankfully, this is just a small line of don’t worry about it. Once you give the Baseus S1 Pro cameras a charge out of the box, solar takes over from there. I’ve found the units stay well above a minimum tank while taking in rays from the sun during the day. Even on cloudy days, the solar panels still get enough juice that having to plug these guys into power outlets seems unnecessary.
Awarded to products with an average rating of 3.75 stars or higher, the AndroidGuys Smart Pick recognizes a balance of quality, performance, and value.
Products with this distinction deserve to be on your short list of purchase candidates.
Final Thoughts
I was fairly impressed with the first experience from Baseus security cameras with my previous reviews, but the new S1 Pro camera kit adds to the positive vibes. The additional cameras and sensors, along with onboard solar power, give the company a true contender here.
The Baseus S1 Pro Security dual camera kit will set you back a pretty hefty initial investment. At $430, it’s far from an impulse purchase. Despite the cost, I think the performance, set-and-forget battery, and peace of mind are well worth it. Hit the link below to add the S1 Pro cameras to your cart.
Price Update: Baseus has enlisted a holiday season sale price of $300 for the kit at both links below.
Narwal, a growing player in smart home cleaning solutions, has rolled out its latest device—the Narwal S20 Pro. This cordless, all-in-one vacuum and mop cleaner aims to make hard floor cleaning less of a chore—because who has time to wrestle with vacuum cords these days? Featuring a zero-tangle brush, automatic solution dispensing, and smart self-dry detection, the S20 Pro promises hassle-free maintenance.
The S20 Pro boasts AI-powered DirtSense technology, delivering 20,000 Pa of suction power along with Dual-Edge 0.04-inch cleaning precision. These specs ensure effective dirt removal in a single pass, handling everything from light dust to more stubborn messes.
Following the success of the Narwal S10 Pro, which received a 4.8 out of 5-star rating on Amazon and sold out in under two months, the S20 Pro comes with notable upgrades. These include stronger suction, longer battery life, quieter operation, double-edge cleaning capabilities, intelligent solution dispensing, a 180° flat-fold design, and a zero-tangle head.
Innovating Home Cleaning with Key Advancements
The Narwal S20 Pro combines power and ease, making daily cleaning more efficient:
Vacuum & Mop All-in-One: The S20 Pro handles heavy dirt, debris, and spills in one go with its strong suction and dual-edge cleaning technology. Its thoughtful design and self-cleaning features mean less time on chores and more time for what matters.
Self-Cleaning & Drying: Featuring reverse and roller brushes, the S20 Pro cleans itself thoroughly after each use. The automatic solution dispensing feature adjusts cleaning solutions during operation, while smart drying technology keeps brushes completely dry, preventing unwanted smells or mold.
AI DirtSense™ Technology: This smart feature adjusts cleaning intensity based on the dirt detected. With five cleaning modes and interactive LCD and voice prompts, the S20 Pro makes sure every area gets the right amount of attention without any manual tweaks.
Effortless Maneuverability: The self-propelling design and 180° flat-reach functionality allow the S20 Pro to glide through tight spaces, around furniture, and into corners seamlessly, fitting smoothly into any home layout.
Tangle-Free Performance: The zero-tangle brush stops hair from wrapping around, making maintenance a breeze—finally, a brush that listens! With a 60-minute runtime, the S20 Pro supports extended cleaning sessions while operating quietly to keep household noise to a minimum.
Pricing and Availability
Narwal is launching the S20 Pro in the U.S. and Canadian markets with a special discount. Customers can use the code “NarwalS20” at checkout to receive $70 off in the United States and $100 off in Canada from October 18 to October 31, 2024. The Narwal S20 Pro is available on Amazon US, Amazon CA, us.Narwal.com, and ca.Narwal.com.
With the S20 Pro, Narwal continues to lead in smart home cleaning, offering a device that blends advanced technology with user-friendly features to suit the needs of today’s households.
So, you are up for some racing, but you’ve opened your Play Store and don’t know where to start. I get that. There are thousands of racing games sorted into different categories that cover various niches. From puzzle and arcade-style racing games to realistic racing games that include bikes, cars, or even horses.
So, it can be really difficult to know which game to download, and usually, this process ends up in a trial and error until you find the right one for you.
Well, that’s the case until this guide. We’ve decided to cover some of the best racing games you can download on an Android phone.
We will cover some of the traditional and most popular car games, and also dive into other categories like rally racing, and horse racing.
Let’s do it.
1. Asphalt: Legends Unite
Available: Free (with in-app purchases)
Let’s cover the most popular racing game for mobile devices – Asphalt. I don’t know about you but this is one of the rare games that gets huge improvements version after version. Ever since its first release, Asphalt felt like it was years ahead of the entire mobile racing industry just because of the graphics.
This is a game with more than 100 million downloads on Android, and there is a good reason for that. The graphics and effects are INSANE! You’ll get those adrenaline spikes even only by watching the gameplay.
On top of that, there are many big brands featured in the game like Ferrari, Porsche, and Lamborghini. Basically, you’ll be driving dream cars that most people want in their homes.
When it comes to controls and handling, the game doesn’t offer that much. But that’s okay. After all, we are talking about an arcade racing game, not a racing simulator.
2. Horse Racing 3D
Available: Free (with in-app purchases)
Now let’s move to a different path. If you want something new, but still centered around racing, why not try a horse racing game? I bet you’ll be impressed.
When it comes to horse racing games, I’d go for Horse Racing 3D just because it focuses mostly on the racing part of things. The game has decent graphics, a lot of options, horse stats, dynamic weather conditions, and much more. You also get to compete in big events and who knows, maybe you’ll sharpen your skills to enter a TwinSpires horse tourney.
Basically, everything that a horse racing enthusiast would want.
Horse Racing 3D has more than 10 million downloads, which is quite impressive for a niche game.
3. Mario Kart Tour – Chaos Meets Fun
Available: Free (with in-app purchases)
Okay, let’s take a breather from real-world cars and talk about Mario Kart. If you’re into wacky races filled with banana peels and shells flying everywhere, then Mario Kart Tour is an absolute must-try.
While it doesn’t offer the same level of realism as some others on this list, it more than makes up for it with nostalgia and sheer fun. This game thrives on multiplayer mayhem, where you can race against players globally in colorful and imaginative tracks straight out of the Mario universe.
via EA Sports
4. F1 Mobile Racing – The Formula 1 Experience
Available: Free (with in-app purchases)
Formula 1 fans rejoice. F1 Mobile Racing brings the precision and high-speed action of Formula 1 right to your fingertips. With official teams, drivers, and circuits from the F1 world championship, this game is as close as you can get to driving an actual F1 car without being Lewis Hamilton. The game features real-time multiplayer, so you can compete against other racers online in high-stakes races.
For anyone who wants a taste of the pinnacle of motorsports, this is your go-to game.
5. Grid Autosport – Realism at Its Finest
Available: Paid ($9.99)
If you’re willing to shell out a bit of cash, Grid Autosport offers one of the most realistic racing experiences available on Android. With stunning visuals and an emphasis on real-world physics, it’s closer to a console or PC racing sim than a mobile game.
You can race in over 100 circuits and choose from different racing disciplines like open-wheel, touring cars, endurance, and street races. The learning curve is a bit steeper, but for hardcore racing fans, it’s worth every penny.
6. Need for Speed: No Limits – Street Racing Drama
Available: Free (with in-app purchases)
For those who like the thrill of illegal street races, Need for Speed: No Limits is a must-try. The game focuses on customizing your rides and racing through the city streets at breakneck speeds.
What makes it stand out is the intense multiplayer mode, where you can challenge players from around the world. It’s more focused on story-driven action, with dramatic rivalries and cops chasing you around every corner. Plus, you can customize your car’s appearance with a ton of modifications, from paint jobs to body kits.
7. Rebel Racing – West Coast Glory
Available: Free (with in-app purchases)
Want to feel like you’re racing along the stunning west coast of the United States? Rebel Racing combines incredible car models with realistic environments to give you a feel of racing on scenic coastal roads. The game features supercars that you can customize, and it offers a good mix of arcade-style fun with some semi-realistic driving mechanics. It’s perfect for players who want a bit of both worlds—fun and realism.
EDITOR NOTE: This is a promoted post and should not be considered an editorial endorsement. AndroidGuys received compensation for the aforementioned content.
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QCY has expanded its H3 series portfolio with the launch of the new H3 Pro over-ear headphones. QCY’s new over-ear headphones come with adaptive noise-canceling technology that cancels out background noise up to 50dB, giving you an immersive listening experience without any disturbance. The adaptive ANC automatically adjusts noise reduction levels and EQ settings for optimal performance.
QCY packs a dual chip which the company classified as a primary chip and an amplifier chip, to further enhance the overall audio experience. The headphones have an LDAC high-resolution codec support that ensures detailed and texture sound.
The H3 Pro over-ear headphones are equipped with 40mm sound drivers with titanium film diaphragms, delivering a balanced sound profile for every genre. QCY claims that the headphones last up to 55 hours on a single charge with ANC off. Furthermore, they also come with quick charge support, a 10-minute charge provides up to 5 hours of listening time.
Other features of the QCY H3 Pro include an ultra-low latency gaming mode of up to 60ms, wired as well as wireless connectivity, and dual connection support which means you can connect the headphones to up to two devices simultaneously and seamlessly switch from one to other.
You can snag the QCY H3 Pro headphones for $59.99 via QCY’s official online store, AliExpress, and Amazon. They are available in White, Purple, and black color options.
Anker has unveiled its cutting-edge lineup of chargers and accessories for 2024, perfectly tailored to elevate your charging experience. This impressive array includes everything from cables and chargers to sleek desktop stands. We’re excited to showcase some standout items from the new Anker MagGo line, thanks to our friends at the company.
These innovative magnetic devices seamlessly integrate with both MagSafe and the advanced Qi2 wireless standards. Let’s dive into how you can elevate your charging game with these remarkable new products.
Level Up is where we explore the gear that actually makes a difference, whether that’s in how you live, work, or unwind. Each edition brings together standout products, whether tied by brand or by theme, that turn the everyday into something a little more exceptional.
We’ll start with the simplest of the options. Anker has made a living off power banks, and MagSafe is a great new way to add magnetic mounts to make sure the connection is both wireless and secure. Anker’s MagGo line utilizes this and the new, open Qi2 standard to continue this tradition.
The MagGo Power Bank Slim has an internal battery with a 10,000mAh capacity. This should allow the average smartphone with MagSafe/Qi2 to essentially recharge two full times using this accessory. The magnets are strong, and using both my Pixel 8 (with a MagSafe case) and iPhone 14, I’ve found the MagGo Power Bank Slim stayed snapped to both and offered a seamless charging experience.
The MagGo Power Bank Slim contains plenty of output juice as well as capacity. Since Qi2 devices don’t really exist in the market yet, we’ll cover that MagSafe iPhones can get the maximum 15W of charging. There’s also a USB-C port on the side of the unit that can push 30W to your device for even faster replenishment.
The Anker MagGo Power Bank Slim can be purchased for just $75 via both Anker and Amazon. If you want exclusive colors like Pink Aura and Teal Oasis, you’ll need to hit Anker direct. Amazon buyers will settle for just Black or White.
The next portable charger from Anker still has MagGo, but with a different twist. The Anker MagGo Apple Watch Power Bank is predictably made for Apple Watch users. The 10,000mAh capacity is dedicated to Apple users with iPhone 14s and newer who also own an Apple Watch.
The obvious thing you’ll notice out of the box is the pop-up Apple Watch charger. This MagGo option is capable of Apple’s full 5 Watts of quick charge that should recharge a Series 9 watch to 50% in around 30 minutes. The charger is certified by Apple to output this maximum charge, just like an official one from the fruit company.
The same is true for the dedicated USB-C cable. For the newer iPhones using the universal charging protocol, you can get a maximum wired charge of up to 30 Watts. Much like the Power Bank Slim, if using it only on a phone, you should get close to two full recharges from the internal battery. Rounding out this charger is the LED status screen on the side. This shows you the remaining capacity and the current charge rates.
The Anker MagGo Apple Watch Power Bank will cost consumers $80 at full retail, but there are some launch discounts at both links below for Anker.com and Amazon. Colorways include Aurora White, Black Stone, Pink Aura, and Teal Oasis. Again, Amazon is limited to just the Black and White variants.
Finally, we’ll wrap this Level Up with the latest Anker charging stand. This USB-C power unit can push out the full Qi2 standard, delivering 15 Watts of power to iPhones. This should give you around 30% charge from a fully depleted iPhone 15 Pro in just 20 minutes. Again, the MagGo stand offers a nice snap when the magnets pull your phone into the charger.
That’s not all, though. The Anker MagGo Wireless Charger Stand has unique orientations that make it great for iPhones and AirPods alike. The magnetic “puck” features a fantastic 360-degree swivel mechanism. Turning the phone to activate Apple’s new Standby Mode is just a twist away. Lastly, the puck also tilts to 90 degrees to create a level surface to set a wireless charging-capable AirPods case.
I love how Anker found a way to support both Standby on iPhones and AirPods without having to sacrifice the slim design. Usually, this would have been added in a bulk extension of the stand’s case. The price isn’t terrible, either. At just $36, I think the Anker MagGo Wireless Charger Stand is a steal at our links below.
Noise-canceling earbuds are seemingly a dime a dozen these days; even entry-level options come with ANC (Active Noise Cancellation) technology. However, hunting for the perfect noise-canceling earbuds can feel like an endless quest, especially if you’re on a tight budget. Fortunately, there are a few brands that offer audiophile-level sound quality and good ANC technology for under €99/$100, and Xiaomi’s latest Buds 5 is no exception.
Xiaomi typically launches its AIoT devices every autumn. This year, the company introduced the Xiaomi 14T series, the Xiaomi Smart Band 9, the Xiaomi S20 series robot vacuum, the Xiaomi TV Max 100, and the Xiaomi Buds 5.
Notably, Xiaomi did not launch the previous generation, the Buds 4, in the global market. However, this time, Xiaomi makes a comeback with its signature Buds 5 earbuds available internationally.
Consumers typically seek several key features in new earbuds: better sound quality, a durable build, decent ANC, and reliable battery life. The good news is that the Xiaomi Buds 5 surprisingly delivers on all these fronts.
I spent two weeks with the Xiaomi Buds 5 to see how they compare against stiff competition from the likes of Nothing’s latest CMF Buds Pro 2, Sony WF-C510, and Earfun Air Pro 4.
Price and Availablity
The Xiaomi Buds 5 earbuds have been announced in Europe, alongside the Xiaomi 14T series, Smart Band 9, and a range of smart-home products.
You can snag the Buds 5 for €99 (roughly $109, £83) directly from Xiaomi UK’s official website or other authorized retailers. There’s no news on the availability in the US just yet. To recall, Xiaomi usually doesn’t release much of its tech in the US markets.
Xiaomi offers three beautiful color options for the Buds 5: Titan Gray, Graphite Black, and Ceramic White.
Pros
Brilliant sound right out of the box
Lightweight design with a durable build
Good active noise-canceling
In-app Custom EQ
Cons
Mediocre battery life
Buggy companion app
Poor ear grip
Unboxing
Design and Build
At first glance, the Xiaomi Buds 5 case looks absolutely striking with its shiny reflective layer on top. The compact yet lightweight design with subtle curves feels very premium in hand and easily slips into any pocket without taking up much space. It has a durable plastic construction that feels quite sturdy and premium.
At the center of the lid, there is a signature “Xiaomi” branding finished in a classic silver color, giving a bold look to the case. The case weighs a mere 36.6 grams, making it super portable. On the bottom of the case, there is a Bluetooth 5.4 quick pairing button and a USB-C port for charging. On the front, you get a small LED indicator which denotes the battery life of the case. The case weighs a mere 36.6 grams, making it super portable.
Unlike other earbuds cases, Xiaomi doesn’t hide the stems in the body. Instead, the Buds 5 clamshell design case reveals the entirety of the buds, which allows me to quickly remove the buds without even fiddling with the case, bringing great convenience.
Xiaomi offers three eye-catching color options for the Buds 5: Gray, White, and Black. Xiaomi provides us with a shiny Ceramic White color that looks gorgeous.
When you open the case, you are greeted with sleek, ceramic white-finished open-ear design Xiaomi Buds 5 earbuds with a silver-coated layer on the stems. Weighing in at just 4.2 grams each, the Xiaomi Buds 5 earbuds feel relatively lightweight. Each earbud has a small cylindrical button on the stem that you can use for various controls with single pinch, double pinch, triple taps, and tap-and-hold inputs. More on that later.
I have a love-hate relationship with the open-ear design earbuds. The obvious reason behind this is the ear grip issue. The Xiaomi Buds 5 did offer a comfortable grip for my ear when I was seated or in a steady mode. But things went south when fast walking or running; I noticed the Buds 5 would slowly start to slip, resulting in my having to constantly push the buds back into my ears.
I tried the Buds 5 during my gym sessions, but unfortunately, the Buds started to fall out while performing jumping or running activities. If you do a lot of movement, I simply wouldn’t recommend these earbuds to you. Instead, look for silicone-tip earbuds that offer a more reliable grip than the open ear ones.
To wrap up the design elements, the Buds 5 come with IP54 water and dust resistance ingress protection, which means they can easily withstand normal splashes of water and ingress of dust.
Performance
Inside the Xiaomi Buds 5 are 11mm dual magnet dynamic sound drivers that bring true-to-life audio. You’ll get all the standard codec support, including SBC, AAC, LC3, Qualcomm aptX Lossless, and aptX Adaptive in the Buds 5. The Xiaomi Buds 5 use Bluetooth v5.4 connectivity with support for Bluetooth Low Energy and operate within a 10-meter range, offering a great listening experience without connection drops. Xiaomi also collaborated with the audio specialist Harman Kardon to squeeze the most out of the buds.
I spent almost two weeks with the Xiaomi Buds 5, and honestly, it offers better sound than I expected in this price range. Despite the over-ear structure, the buds have great bass.
For testing the Xiaomi Buds 5 sound quality, I started with my go-to song – Vidya Vox’s “Be Free.” The Buds 5 produce rich and deep audio with crisp highs and solid bass that please my ear. The vocals sound crystal-clear, the high frequencies are crisp without being too sharp, and the bass response is just great. What I love the most about the Buds 5 is its instrument separation. You can easily distinguish the drum beats, piano, and guitar. I also enjoyed Otilia’s “Billionera” and The Knife’s “Silent Shout,” which sound equally good with rich and deep audio.
One thing to note is that I used the default audio balance, the Harman AudioEFX, to listen to all my favorite songs. Xiaomi offers multiple audio presets that you can choose directly from the companion app. I simply love the Harman AudioEFX’s mix; it’s clear, with a pure focus on vocals, instruments, and pitches. I would recommend you use the default audio balance, Harman AudioEFX, for a better music experience. I think the Xiaomi Buds 5 sound brilliant with the default configuration and will be enjoyed by everyone, from audiophiles to non-audiophiles alike.
I took out the Xiaomi Buds 5 to test its active noise cancellation – a distraction-free tech that offers a great music experience without any disturbance. Xiaomi offers 2 ANC levels: Balanced and Deep, with an adaptive mode that automatically adjusts sound based on your shape and environment. In busier areas like cafes and parks, the Buds 5’s active noise cancellation works decently but isn’t outstanding. On a bus, they did a decent job of cutting out most of the engine noise but not so effectively. The same is true for the busy cafes; they were just average at reducing the background noise. This might be because of the buds’ design, but I’m not sure; it is what it is. The Buds 5 have three microphones on each bud, which work fine during calls.
Software
The Xiaomi Buds 5 come with a dedicated Xiaomi Earbuds companion app – available on iOS and Android devices – allowing you to further tweak the earbuds’ audio and other settings as per your liking.
The companion app provides a 10-band equalizer between 62Hz and 16kHz, giving you most of the control over the sound. The software experience entirely depends on the type of phone you use. The Xiaomi Buds 5 work seamlessly with my iQOO 12 device, where you can access most of the important settings like spatial audio, head tracking, high-quality audio, and more directly from the Bluetooth menu.
You can easily switch noise cancellation and adaptive noise cancellation modes. Other standard features include toggling wear detection, setting up dual device connectivity, in-ear detection, taking calls automatically, and audio-based finding of the earbuds, and changing the gesture controls.
You can also activate Xiaomi’s Dimensional Audio from the audio effects. This feature basically makes audio sound like it’s surrounding you. Alongside Dimensional Audio, there are several audio effects you’ll find in the app including Harman AudioEFX, Enhance Voice, Enhance Treble, Decrease Bass, Classic, and a Custom option.
I found gesture controls really convenient; with just one pinch, you can answer calls, play/pause music, pinch twice to reject a call, change the music track, pinch three times to go back to the previous music track, use a slide gesture to set the volume level, and press and hold for 2 seconds to turn on/off noise cancellation. You can also customize the gesture controls directly from the app.
My experience with the app wasn’t great. Every time I connect the earbuds to my phone, the app simply won’t show that they are connected – I have to restart the app and connect it manually. The irony is you can’t use the features including ANC controls and other audio tweak settings until the app detects the earbuds. This is so frustrating. I hope Xiaomi will address this issue in its upcoming software updates.
Battery
Xiaomi rated the Buds 5 for 39 hours of battery life with the case and 6.5 hours for the Buds on a single charge.
During my testing, I found the Xiaomi Buds 5 lasted over 5 hours and 11 minutes with ANC on and 6 hours when ANC was off. While the case provides around 33 hours with ANC deployed. The battery life of the buds is just average compared to the other earbuds in this price range.
It takes around one and a half hours to fully charge the earbuds. The buds also have fast charging support; a 10-minute charge provides you with 2 hours of listening time, which is great.
Final Thoughts
The Xiaomi Buds 5 provide all the essentials that you’d want from affordable earbuds, including brilliant sound quality, decent ANC, a full range of features, a durable yet premium-looking build, and a companion app for further tweaking the music.
My only quibble is its poor fit and average battery life. This is where Xiaomi needs to improve. If you love open-ear design earbuds and can settle for average battery life, then these €99 earbuds are a compelling choice.
If you are someone who wants an excellent fit, solid battery life, and superior sound quality without spending a fortune, then consider Sony’s WF-C510, which costs slightly less than the Xiaomi Buds 5 and is available in most markets.
SwitchBot is expanding its smart home lineup with four new products designed to simplify daily life and enhance home environments. The latest offerings—the Wallet Finder Card, Advanced Meter Pro, Meter Pro (CO₂ Monitor), and Evaporative Humidifier (Auto-refill)—bring together convenience, precise monitoring, and comfortable living spaces without the fuss.
Wallet Finder Card: Slim Security for Your Essentials
Say goodbye to frantic wallet searches. The SwitchBot Wallet Finder Card is a sleek, 2.5mm-thick device that slips effortlessly into wallets, cardholders, or bags. Priced at $17.50 on Amazon with a 30% coupon and £16.50 on Amazon UK, it’s also available through SwitchBot’s US and UK stores for $24.99/£24.99.
This little tracker pairs seamlessly with Apple Find My, offering global precision tracking without the need for extra apps. It features loud 78dB sound alerts and a robust 540mAh battery that can keep up for up to three years. Waterproof with an IP67 rating, it’s ready for any adventure—rain or shine. Plus, when the battery eventually taps out, the Wallet Finder Card doubles as an NFC card. With bank-grade AES-128 encryption and an anti-tracking mode, your belongings stay safe and sound.
Advanced Meter Pro & Meter Pro (CO₂ Monitor): Know Your Air
SwitchBot’s Advanced Meter Pro and Meter Pro (CO₂ Monitor) bring high-precision environmental monitoring to your home. Available on Amazon for $23.99/£27.99 with a 20% coupon and through SwitchBot US and UK, the Advanced Meter Pro tracks temperature and humidity with Swiss-made sensors every four seconds.
Meter Pro (CO₂ Monitor)
For those keeping an eye on air quality, the Meter Pro (CO₂ Monitor) uses Non-Dispersive Infrared (NDIR) technology to measure CO₂ levels accurately, updating every second or every 30 minutes in battery mode. Priced at $55.99 with a 20% coupon on SwitchBot US and £44.99 with a 25% coupon on SwitchBot UK, it ensures your indoor air is just right.
Both devices sync with SwitchBot Hubs and voice assistants like Alexa, Google Assistant, and Siri Shortcuts. They even play nice with IFTTT and SmartThings, letting you automate actions like turning on fans when CO₂ levels rise. It’s smart home integration made easy—no tech degree required.
Meet the SwitchBot Evaporative Humidifier (Auto-refill), your new best friend for maintaining perfect indoor humidity. Available for $239.99/£199.99 on Amazon and SwitchBot’s websites—with discounts bringing it to £159.99 with coupon code TYGHT on SwitchBot UK and $170.99 with the same code on SwitchBot US—the humidifier uses cold evaporation technology to add moisture without leaving any pesky residue.
Evaporative Humidifier
With a 4.5L water tank and automatic refilling via the SwitchBot S10 Robot Vacuum, it keeps your air humidified for up to 22.5 hours. Operating quietly below 18dB, it’s ideal for bedrooms and nurseries where silence is golden. Control it through the SwitchBot app to schedule and monitor humidity levels, ensuring your home stays comfy without lifting a finger.
Availability
The Wallet Finder Card, Advanced Meter Pro, Meter Pro (CO₂ Monitor), and Evaporative Humidifier (Auto-refill) are now available for purchase on SwitchBot’s official website, Amazon, and Amazon UK. For more details and updates, visit SwitchBot’s website or follow them on social media.
SwitchBot continues to deliver smart home solutions that blend functionality with user-friendly design, making connected living effortlessly enjoyable.
TCL, a familiar name in the world of smart displays and gadgets, has teamed up with T-Mobile to launch the TCL LINKPORT IK511. Starting October 17, 2024, the LINKPORT IK511 will be available at T-Mobile stores, ready to transform your laptop or tablet into a 5G powerhouse without needing to break out the duct tape.
This nifty device features the Snapdragon X35 5G Modem-RF System, which not only makes it efficient but also extends battery life—so your devices can stay online longer without begging for a charge. Currently, the LINKPORT IK511 stands alone as North America’s only commercially available 5G RedCap device, thanks to its close partnership with T-Mobile, the sole major carrier offering nationwide 5G SA coverage.
John Saw, EVP and Chief Technology Officer of T-Mobile, added, “5G RedCap will transform how consumers and businesses connect, catapulting old Wi-Fi-only devices onto the nation’s leading 5G network.”
Designed for both personal and business use, the TCL LINKPORT IK511 lets you upgrade your current devices with 5G without the hassle of buying new hardware. Key features include:
Compact Design: One of the smallest and lightest 5G RedCap devices around—your backpack will thank you.
Easy Setup: 5G connectivity via USB-C, because who has time for complicated installations?
Wide Compatibility: Works with most major operating systems, making it the universal adapter you never knew you needed.
Fast Speeds: Data transfer up to 220 Mbps—because waiting is so last decade.
Advanced Network Features: Access to network slicing and T-Mobile services like T-Priority and T-Mobile Secure Access Service Edge (SASE).
Gautam Sheoran, Vice President of Product Management at Qualcomm Technologies, said, “The LINKPORT IK511 is among the first commercial devices using our Snapdragon X35 5G Modem-RF System. It’s a big step for connected devices, bringing 5G benefits to more users—think of it as giving your old device a new lease on life.”
To celebrate the launch, T-Mobile is offering the LINKPORT IK511 for $96, with a special deal of 50% off when added to a Go5G Next or Go5G Business Next plan. For just $5 per month, customers can transform almost any USB-C device into a 5G-connected gadget—because why not?
