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GameSir Tarantula Pro Review

Abhinav Fating
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GameSir Tarantula Pro Review

GameSir has been making waves lately, consistently launching one high-grade controller after another. This time, the company introduces the all-new Tarantula Pro gaming controller. So far, I have reviewed half a dozen GameSir controllers, including the GameSir G7, GameSir Nova Lite, GameSir G7 Iron Man Limited Edition, GameSir G8+, and more. They all share a common trait: a traditional Xbox controller shape. However, the new TaranTula Pro controller is quite different.

In terms of design, it seems that GameSir has dedicated this controller to PlayStation fans, offering a plethora of customization options and features compared to other PlayStation controllers available in the market.

GameSir, a reliable gaming accessories maker, is well-known for its feature-packed, high-grade gaming controllers. The Tarantula Pro is no exception. GameSir provided us with the Tarantula Pro controller’s charging edition, which costs $10 more than the standard edition. I have been using this controller for the past three weeks. Let’s find out whether GameSir’s latest offering holds up during testing in our favorite titles, such as The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt, NFS Payback, and Red Dead Redemption.

Pros

  • GameSir’s new Mag-Res TMR sticks
  • 9 mappable buttons
  • Symmetrical design
  • 6-axis gyroscope sensor 
  • Dual-face button layouts 
  • HD rumble motors

Cons 

  • There’s no way to customize the controller settings on a PC 

Unboxing

Price and Availability 

The GameSir Tarantula Pro controller made its debut earlier this month at $70 for the standard edition, while the Charging Edition will set you back $80, which is $10 more than the standard version. You can snag the Tarantula Pro controller via GameSir’s official website and Amazon. Availability won’t be an issue, as GameSir has a strong presence in every market. There are no color options available; it comes in a single jet-black color.

Design and Build 

Image Credit – Abhinav Fating

GameSir opted for a symmetrical layout for the Tarantula Pro, a design typically reserved for PlayStation controllers. The controller bears a striking resemblance to the PS4 DualShock controller, although it does not feature a touchpad. Finished in Jet Black, the GameSir Tarantula Pro controller looks visually impressive. The button and joystick layout closely mirrors that of PlayStation controllers, with the directional pad located in the top-left corner, the face buttons in the top-right corner, and the two hall-effect TMR joysticks positioned in the center of the controller. It is important to note that these TMR sticks differ significantly from GameSir’s standard hall-effect joysticks.

The button layout is intuitive; every button is strategically placed for easy access, including the back buttons. GameSir has also provided nine extra mappable buttons—five on the front, two on the back, and two on the top—which is a welcome feature. This is something we typically see in most high-end controllers, such as Scuf’s Envision Pro Plus. Additionally, there is an NFC reader on top. GameSir has also incorporated a black and gray camo finish on the face of the controller, enhancing its overall aesthetic appeal.

Speaking of build quality, the Tarantula Pro is crafted from hard plastic materials that feel quite premium in hand. The controller is well-balanced, with most of its weight centered, leaving the handles lightweight. Most of the textures are located on the back of the controller, providing a good fit and comfortable grip for any hand size.

The Tarantula Pro features a customizable RGB lighting strip and face buttons, giving it a striking appearance. You can easily customize the RGB lighting either directly from the controller or via the app. GameSir offers a total of six different RGB light presets: Breathing, Fantasy, Rainbow, Radar, Monochrome, and Off. Adjusting the RGB lights felt much easier using the app rather than through the controller itself. You can also change the color, speed, and brightness of the lights directly from the app with ease.

The RGB lighting is vibrant and bright, creating an impressive visual effect. RGB controller enthusiasts will surely appreciate GameSir’s latest offering.

Connectivity and Performance 

Setting up the Tarantula Pro is a straightforward task. GameSir offers three options for connecting the controller to PCs, mobile devices, consoles, and the Switch: Bluetooth, a 2.4GHz USB receiver, and wired connectivity. Initially, I experienced some difficulty connecting to my PC via Bluetooth. However, once I got it set up, it connected seamlessly to both my smartphone and PC.

I tested both wired and wireless connections, and found them to be very reliable and responsive. The wireless dongle worked perfectly as well. I didn’t experience any connectivity issues while testing the controller.

Image credit : Abhinav Fating

The Tarantula Pro controller is extremely customizable, offering more buttons than typical mainstream controllers. You can swap face buttons without needing to replace them, making it much easier to switch layouts compared to GameSir’s mobile-oriented controller, such as the GameSir G8+. Yes, you heard that right—the Tarantula Pro features swappable face buttons that allow you to toggle between the ABXY (Nintendo) layout and the BAXY (Xbox) layout by simply pressing the Rear M key and the A button. This is incredibly cool.

GameSir has incorporated a gear mechanism into the Tarantula Pro controller, enabling users to interchange the face button layout seamlessly. When switching layouts or turning the controller on, you’ll hear a soothing whirring sound from the gears, which adds to the overall experience. Honestly, I really love this button-swapping function.

Image credit : Abhinav Fating

Coming to the performance, I played some of my favorite titles, such as The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt, Red Dead Redemption, and NFS Payback, using the Tarantula Pro controller. My experience with the controller has been fantastic. In The Witcher 3: Wild Hunt, the controller offers impressive vibration feedback, especially during combat with enemies.

As I mentioned earlier, the Tarantula Pro boasts Mag-Res TMR (Trailblazing, Mighty, Robust) sticks, which represent a step up from GameSir’s regular Hall effect joysticks. The TMR joysticks feel responsive and provide an ideal amount of resistance, making them some of the best joysticks I’ve ever used. Additionally, the D-Pad and face buttons deliver excellent feedback and performance.

The texture-wrapped triggers are highly accurate, allowing for quick response times, especially when playing FPS or racing games. You can enhance sensitivity even further by switching to Hall Effect hair-trigger mode.

You can customize nearly everything in the GameSir Tarantula Pro controller via the GameSir companion app: from triggers and joystick sensitivity ranges (0 to 100), to button mapping, rumble pack strength, RGB lighting, and joystick dead zones. However, there’s a catch: the Tarantula Pro controller is only customizable through the Android companion app, which means you can’t make adjustments on a PC. This limitation is quite surprising.

When I connected the Tarantula Pro controller to my PC, I expected it to work with GameSir’s Nexus app. Unfortunately, that was not the case; the companion app failed to detect the controller. As a result, I had to disconnect the controller from my PC and pair it with my Android smartphone to modify trigger and stick settings, which was very frustrating.

GameSir has packed a plethora of customization options into its latest gamepad, but what is the advantage of all these features if you can’t customize them on a PC? GameSir really needs to improve in this area.

Battery Life

The Tarantula Pro boasts a 1,200mAh battery (600mAh on each side). However, the brand has not provided any claims regarding battery life.

During my three-week testing period, I used the controller for over 21 hours via Bluetooth with the RGB lighting turned on, and I haven’t charged the controller even once. So yes, you can expect up to 21 hours of battery life on a single charge. Battery life may vary based on other factors. For instance, if you turn off the RGB lighting, you can expect an additional one to two hours of battery life.

Should you buy the GameSir Tarantula Pro Gaming Controller? 

You should buy this if…

  • You want a controller with a symmetrical design 
  • You want a highly customizable controller 
  • You want a RGB lighting 
  • You are looking for a lightweight gamepad with extra buttons

You shouldn’t buy this if…

  • You want a popular Xbox-style layout
  • You are looking for a more premium option  

Final Thoughts 

Image credit : Abhinav Fating

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.

I have reviewed several GameSir gamepads, but the Tarantula Pro is truly one of the best controllers I’ve ever used. GameSir’s new offering comes with an overwhelming number of features, which I’m sure a casual gamer might easily forget about within a few weeks.

I really love GameSir’s new snappy TMR joysticks, which offer incredible response times. The triggers are excellent, providing the option to choose between analog and hair-trigger modes. Additionally, you get 9 mappable keys, an interchangeable face layout, and an NFC reader. The customizable RGB lighting adds a striking look to the controller. Its sturdy build and ergonomic design make it super comfortable for extended gaming sessions.

Overall, the Tarantula Pro has impressed me greatly. If you are looking for a well-built, feature-packed, and extremely customizable controller, you can’t go wrong with GameSir’s Tarantula Pro.

Google Launches Certified Refurbished Pixel Program with Discounts Up to 40%

Scott Webster
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0
Google Launches Certified Refurbished Pixel Program with Discounts Up to 40%

Google has introduced a Certified Refurbished Phone program in the U.S., offering Pixel enthusiasts a chance to buy refurbished models at lower prices. Shoppers can find devices from the Pixel 6 series onward, marked down by as much as 40% off their original retail prices. These phones are available exclusively through the Google Store, providing an affordable way to own a Pixel without compromising on quality.

What to Expect from Certified Refurbished Pixels

Each refurbished phone in the program undergoes a detailed inspection, covering the battery, housing, and display for any flaws. If repairs are necessary, Google’s technicians rely only on genuine parts, ensuring consistency with the original build. To deliver an up-to-date experience, every device ships with the latest Android software and comes in fresh packaging that includes a compatible charger. Google aims for these phones to feel nearly identical to new models, right out of the box.

All certified refurbished devices include a one-year limited warranty and access to Google’s customer support, identical to what buyers receive with a brand-new Pixel.

Sustainable Choices, Consistent Quality

This new program aligns with Google’s ongoing efforts toward sustainability. Alongside sourcing materials responsibly, Google ensures that packaging for refurbished Pixels is entirely plastic-free, just like it is for new Pixel, Nest, and Fitbit devices. The goal is to reduce electronic waste while offering consumers more environmentally friendly ways to upgrade their devices.

Refurbished Pixels, Ready When You Are

The Google Store features a rotating inventory of refurbished models, currently including the Pixel 7 Pro, Pixel 7, Pixel 6 Pro, Pixel 6, and Pixel 6a. Stock is subject to change, so shoppers are encouraged to check back regularly if their preferred model isn’t available.

Purchases through the Google Store come with perks, such as free shipping, easy returns, and financing options with 0% APR for up to 36 months. Buyers can also access the full range of official accessories to complement their device.

Like new Pixels, these refurbished models will continue to receive ongoing software updates, including Google’s regular Pixel Feature Drops, adding new features and improvements over time.

7 Different Ways to Monetize Engagement in the Digital Space

AndroidGuys
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7 Different Ways to Monetize Engagement in the Digital Space

User engagement has beсome a vaӏuabӏe asset for busіnesses. The more users іnteraсt wіth onӏіne pӏatforms, the more opportunіtіes сompanіes have to generate revenue. However, monetіzіng engagement effeсtіveӏy requіres strategіes that fіt both the pӏatform and іts audіenсe. 

Here, we’ӏӏ expӏore varіous ways сompanіes сan monetіze engagement іn the dіgіtaӏ spaсe. Eaсh method has іts benefіts, but seӏeсtіng the rіght mіx depends on understandіng your users and aӏіgnіng strategіes wіth theіr behavіors. 

Subsсrіptіon Modeӏs

Subsсrіptіon-based monetіzatіon іs one of the most dіreсt ways to earn from user engagement. In thіs modeӏ, users pay a reсurrіng fee to aссess premіum сontent, tooӏs, or features. Thіs approaсh іs сommon aсross іndustrіes, from medіa to fіtness apps to onӏіne eduсatіon.

The advantage of subsсrіptіons ӏіes іn the predісtabӏe revenue іt brіngs. Reguӏar payments, whether monthӏy or annuaӏӏy, heӏp busіnesses foreсast earnіngs and aӏӏoсate resourсes effeсtіveӏy. However, to suссeed wіth thіs modeӏ, сompanіes need to provіde сonsіstent vaӏue to theіr subsсrіbers. If users feeӏ the сontent or servісe іsn’t worth іt, сhurn rates сan іnсrease.

Freemіum wіth In-App Purсhases

Freemіum modeӏs ӏet users aссess basіс features for free whіӏe offerіng optіonaӏ іn-app purсhases for enhanсed funсtіonaӏіty. Thіs method іs popuӏar wіth mobіӏe apps, games, and some SaaS pӏatforms. In the freemіum modeӏ, the goaӏ іs to get a ӏarge user base, then сonvert a perсentage іnto payіng сustomers.

Whіӏe onӏy a portіon of users may make purсhases, a broad user base сreates a steady stream of potentіaӏ revenue. For exampӏe, free-to-pӏay mobіӏe games often offer іn-game іtems, upgrades, or other іnсentіves that engage pӏayers and enсourage spendіng.

Onӏіne Games

There lies a unique opportunity to monetize user engagement in the online gaming market. One сommon method is in-app purсhases or freemium models, where users сan aссess basiс features for free but are enсouraged to buy premium сontent, suсh as virtual goods, in-game сurrenсy, or сosmetiс items.

Online gambling platforms, on the other hand, benefit when you use real money to gamble and play online. However, if you’re just getting started and are on a tight budget, you сan join play on a platform that offers a sign-up bonus. Ignition сasino, for example, offers new users a welсome bonus of up to $3,000. 

Plus, sinсe its online, the experienсe for an Ignition Casino Australia user will be the same as that for one anywhere else in the world, as you сan benefit from gambling and learning with a global audienсe. You сan also play pokies using Bitсoin and other сryptoсurrenсies, providing benefits suсh as faster transaсtions, enhanсed privaсy, and lower fees сompared to traditional сurrenсy methods. These advantages make сrypto gambling partiсularly attraсtive to teсh-savvy users who prefer deсentralized finanсe.

Additionally, you сan also partiсipate in weekly freeroll tournaments and stand the сhanсe to win bigger сash prizes – an attractive monetary incentive to try out online casino games. 

Advertіsіng Revenue

Advertіsіng іs a stapӏe revenue stream іn dіgіtaӏ spaсes, partісuӏarӏy for pӏatforms that offer free сontent or servісes. Soсіaӏ medіa sіtes, searсh engіnes, bӏogs, and streamіng pӏatforms frequentӏy reӏy on advertіsіng to monetіze theіr hіgh traffіс ӏeveӏs. Common methods іnсӏude dіspӏay ads, vіdeo ads, and sponsored сontent.

Advertіsіng works weӏӏ for pӏatforms wіth a ӏarge, aсtіve audіenсe beсause іt ӏeverages the attentіon they generate. However, baӏanсіng ad quantіty and quaӏіty іs сruсіaӏ. Too many ads сan dіsrupt the user experіenсe, whіӏe too few may ӏіmіt revenue potentіaӏ. Suссessfuӏ ad-based modeӏs aӏso depend on aссurate targetіng, whісh ensures ads reaсh users who fіnd them reӏevant.

Affіӏіate Marketіng

Affіӏіate marketіng іs a revenue modeӏ where сompanіes promote other busіnesses’ produсts and earn a сommіssіon for eaсh saӏe or ӏead generated through theіr pӏatform. Thіs strategy іs effeсtіve for websіtes, bӏogs, and іnfӏuenсers wіth a nісhe audіenсe. For іnstanсe, a traveӏ bӏog mіght promote hoteӏs or aіrӏіnes through affіӏіate ӏіnks, earnіng a perсentage of eaсh bookіng made through those ӏіnks.

Affіӏіate marketіng сan be hіghӏy profіtabӏe when done сorreсtӏy, but іt requіres trust between the audіenсe and the pӏatform. Promotіng ӏow-quaӏіty produсts may harm the brand’s сredіbіӏіty, so іt’s essentіaӏ to сhoose affіӏіate partners that aӏіgn wіth the brand’s vaӏues and the audіenсe’s іnterests.

E-сommerсe Integratіon

For pӏatforms wіth a strong brand presenсe or nісhe audіenсe, addіng an e-сommerсe сomponent сan boost engagement monetіzatіon. Many soсіaӏ medіa pӏatforms now aӏӏow dіreсt shoppіng, enabӏіng users to buy produсts wіthout ӏeavіng the app. Infӏuenсers and сreators aӏso use thіs approaсh, seӏӏіng branded merсhandіse or unіque produсts to theіr foӏӏowers.

Integratіng e-сommerсe іs espeсіaӏӏy effeсtіve for busіnesses wіth a ӏoyaӏ, engaged сommunіty. It сombіnes the reaсh of dіgіtaӏ pӏatforms wіth dіreсt saӏes, aӏӏowіng users to support brands they сonneсt wіth. However, managіng іnventory, ӏogіstісs, and сustomer servісe сan be сompӏex and may requіre addіtіonaӏ resourсes.

Sponsorshіps and Partnershіps

For pӏatforms wіth a ӏoyaӏ, engaged audіenсe, partnershіps wіth brands or sponsorshіps from сompanіes сan be ӏuсratіve. These arrangements may іnvoӏve promotіng a brand’s produсt or servісe, hostіng branded events, or even сo-сreatіng сontent.

Sponsorshіps and partnershіps work weӏӏ for іnfӏuenсers, podсasts, and other pӏatforms wіth a defіned audіenсe that aӏіgns wіth the sponsor’s target market. These reӏatіonshіps often extend beyond one-tіme ads, сreatіng an іntegrated approaсh to engagement and revenue. To maіntaіn trust, busіnesses shouӏd сhoose sponsors that resonate wіth theіr audіenсe and ensure transparent promotіon.

Fіnaӏ Thoughts

Monetіzіng engagement іn the dіgіtaӏ spaсe іsn’t about a one-sіze-fіts-aӏӏ soӏutіon. Eaсh pӏatform must understand іts audіenсe, experіment wіth dіfferent modeӏs, and adapt based on feedbaсk and data. By stayіng agіӏe and foсusіng on the needs of theіr audіenсe, busіnesses сan сreate sustaіnabӏe revenue streams that enhanсe, rather than іnterrupt, the user experіenсe.

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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WITHit Launches Deca and Giga Smartwatches

Scott Webster
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WITHit Launches Deca and Giga Smartwatches

WITHit, known for its innovative wearable tech accessories, recently added a pair of new smartwatches to its lineup: the Deca and Giga models. Available now on WITHitgear.com, these smartwatches are designed to fit seamlessly into everyday life, offering a mix of advanced features, personalized options, and modern aesthetics.

Deca Smartwatch: Where Technology Meets Trend

The Deca Smartwatch boasts a 1.43-inch AMOLED high-definition touchscreen with a sharp 466×466 resolution, ensuring clear visuals and smooth navigation. Its rotating crown makes scrolling through apps, notifications, and customizable dial images a breeze, adding a touch of flair and practicality. Encased in a 45mm metal frame and paired with a comfortable silicone band, the Deca combines durability with quick-release technology for easy adjustments.

Giga Smartwatch: Bigger Screen, More Features

For those who prefer a larger display, the Giga Smartwatch offers a generous 1.99-inch AMOLED high-definition touchscreen, providing a bright and spacious interface for effortless interaction. The 48.50mm aluminum case and quick-release silicone band ensure a comfortable and adaptable fit, making the Giga an excellent choice for users who value screen real estate and personalization.

Features That Make Life Easier

Both the Deca and Giga smartwatches come packed with features designed to simplify daily routines:

  • Health Monitoring: Keep track of heart rate, blood oxygen levels, stress, and menstrual cycles for comprehensive wellness management.
  • Customizable Display: Choose from a variety of watch faces and navigate smoothly through apps and notifications.
  • Everyday Essentials: Access voice assistants, manage phone calls, use GPS, control music, receive hydration reminders, and monitor sleep patterns.
  • Rugged Design: Water-resistant up to 1.5 meters for 30 minutes, perfect for active lifestyles.
  • Magnetic Rapid Charging: Quickly power up your smartwatch to stay on the go without missing a beat.

Seamless Integration with the WITHit App

Alongside the new smartwatches, WITHit has updated its app to enhance connectivity. Compatible with Android 5.0+ and iOS 9.0+, the app allows users to sync their devices, manage health data, customize smartwatch interfaces, and access various functionalities through an easy-to-use platform.

Available Now on WITHitgear.com

The Deca and Giga smartwatches are ready for purchase on WITHitgear.com. Combining style and functionality, these models cater to a wide range of consumers looking to enhance their daily lives with smart technology.

Hohem iSteady V3 Gimbal Review

Abhinav Fating
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0
Hohem iSteady V3 Gimbal Review

Being a solo content creator, I know how hard it is to shoot videos of myself, and it becomes even trickier when I want to add dynamic motion. That’s where a gimbal comes in handy. Whether you’re looking to enhance your phone photography or create engaging social media content, a gimbal can significantly improve your videos by reducing shake and smoothing out motion. This is the primary purpose of this accessory. Recently, gimbal brands have started incorporating AI features into their smartphone gimbals, elevating their capabilities, and Hohem is no exception.

Since 2014, Hohem has been making photography accessories and gimbals. The company’s latest offering, the affordable AI-powered iSteady V3 gimbal, is packed with useful features. This was my first time trying out an AI-powered gimbal.

I’ve been testing the Hohem iSteady V3 for the past two weeks, courtesy of Hohem, which provided a review unit. I took the iSteady V3 gimbal out to determine whether it truly has the potential to become your personal videographer. Most importantly, I want to see how it stacks up against its rivals, such as the DJI OSMO Mobile 6, Insta360 Flow Pro, and Zhiyun Smooth 5S gimbals. Let’s find out.

Pros 

  • Sturdy, compact, and highly portable design
  • AI tracking capabilities for seamless subject tracking
  • Detachable remote 
  • Built-in tripod legs and selfie stick
  • Effective stabilization modes 
  • 12-hour battery life 

Cons 

  • Learning curve for beginners 
  • Upward angle and Downward angle motion is limited to just 45° and 35° 
  • AI tracker magnets are weak

Unboxing

Pricing and Availability 

The Hohem iSteady V3 Gimbal is available at Amazon for $129.99. It comes in White and Black color options. 

Design and Build 

Image Credit – Abhinav Fating

Let me start by saying that I haven’t seen a gimbal in such a compact size. It literally fits in my palm. Unboxing the iSteady V3 gimbal was a super fun experience. Inside the box, you’ll find the gimbal, a detachable magnetic remote controller, a Magnetic AI tracker that doubles as a fill light, a nice pouch, a USB-C charging cable, and a hex key tool.

One feature I like most about the iSteady V3 gimbal is that it comes with integrated selfie stick extensions and built-in tripod legs. When I first held the iSteady V3, I was amazed by its small yet lightweight design. Finished in a white shade, the gimbal has a foldable design, which makes it highly portable. It can even easily fit into your jeans pocket, thanks to its compact foldable form factor.

Image Credit – Abhinav Fating

The smallest form factor is enhanced by its built-in selfie stick, which extends up to 205mm. While this is relatively short compared to its immediate rivals equipped with an extension rod, it is sufficient for capturing shots from various angles. Additionally, there is a screw thread at the bottom of the gimbal, allowing you to mount it on any camera stand, which increases its versatility.

Image Credit – Abhinav Fating

The V3 feels very lightweight in hand, weighing approximately 420 grams, and it measures 127 x 65 x 312 mm when unfolded and 98 x 44 x 160.5 mm when folded. The thickness of the gimbal’s handle is just right; it comfortably fits in my relatively large hands, allowing for smooth movements without any issues. Additionally, the grip is effective at preventing sweaty hands.

Hohem has outfitted the base of the gimbal with tripod legs that can be easily pulled out for setup on the ground. At first glance, I found the built-in tripod legs to be quite flimsy, but I was mistaken. The thin tripod legs are surprisingly sturdy and stable, easily balancing my iQOO 12 smartphone even with an extension.

The iSteady V3 features a detachable magnetic remote control that can be easily removed from the gimbal’s handle, allowing you to control all gimbal movements remotely from a distance of up to 10 meters (~32.8 feet). With the detachable remote, you can manage various functions, such as starting and stopping recording by pressing the designated record button, as well as panning, tilting, and rolling the gimbal using the remote’s joysticks, and more. More details on that will follow later.

On the top side, you’ll find a detachable AI tracker that also serves as a fill light. This fill light offers three color temperature options: 6500K cool light, 5000K neutral light, and 2700K warm light. Additionally, you can adjust the brightness levels of the fill light using a remote.

Performance

Image Credit – Abhinav Fating

This was my first gimbal I’ve reviewed. As I found, with any gimbal, there’s always a bit of a learning curve. The same applies to the Hohem iSteady V3, but surprisingly, it is very user-friendly. Once you learn how to operate the gimbal, including all commands and gestures, it becomes second nature. Additionally, Hohem provides all the tutorials through its Hohem Joy companion app. I highly recommend watching all the tutorials, as they will teach you how to master the iSteady V3 gimbal and shoot like a pro.

Over the last two weeks, I have been testing the Hohem iSteady V3 with my iQOO 12 smartphone mounted on it. I primarily used the iSteady V3 gimbal for shooting unboxing videos, creating social media content, and taking photographs. The V3’s three-axis stabilization worked impressively during my testing, and the video footage came out very smooth, without any shakes. Hohem has integrated four native gimbal modes into the V3: POV (Point of View) mode, PF (Pan Follow) mode, PTF (Pan Tilt Follow) mode, and L (Lock) mode.

All the gimbal modes work incredibly well, and I didn’t encounter any issues whatsoever. In particular, I’m a huge fan of Lock mode, which stabilizes every axis and provides exceptional stability while shooting video. For instance, if you are walking while using Lock mode, it nearly eliminates all bobbing from the video, resulting in a very smooth, cinematic-level output. The V3’s stabilization performance truly impressed me.

Image Credit – Abhinav Fating

Controlling the gimbal is an easy task. The gimbal features nine buttons for straightforward control. Let’s start with the detachable remote, which has six buttons: a joystick for managing gimbal movement (pan, tilt, roll), a mode button for switching between landscape and portrait modes, a dedicated shutter button to start and stop recording, two up and down buttons that allow you to roll the smartphone up to 195 degrees, and a side button for recentering the gimbal.

On the left side of the remote, there’s an orange side wheel that controls the fill light, while the power on/off button is located on the right side. Additionally, the remote features a small LED display that shows the gimbal status, including the activated mode, Bluetooth connection, different mode types, and a battery indicator.

All buttons are highly responsive and demonstrate excellent durability. I particularly appreciate the tiny joystick on the remote, which is very handy. Another notable aspect is that the Hohem iSteady V3 effortlessly balances my iQOO 12 smartphone, despite its weight of 204 grams. I did not notice any shakiness or wobbling while switching modes during shooting.

Image Credit – Abhinav Fating

The gimbal has a maximum payload capacity of 300 grams, which means you can easily mount larger devices like the iPhone 16 Pro Max and the Galaxy S24 Ultra, weighing around 227 grams and 232 grams respectively, without any issues. I’m confident that the gimbal can effortlessly handle larger phones. Additionally, there are criteria for the thickness of the smartphone; Hohem specifies that the smartphone needs to be under 12.5mm thick. Fortunately, most of the latest smartphones come in at under 10mm thick, so you shouldn’t face any difficulties here.

What makes the Hohem iSteady V3 even more enticing are its AI capabilities. The iSteady V3 features a detachable AI tracker with a built-in camera that sits next to the smartphone holder. This AI tracker works seamlessly with any smartphone, which enhances the gimbal’s versatility. However, keep in mind that the locking clips of the AI tracker aren’t particularly strong, and it can easily fall out with just a gentle touch, so exercise caution.

Image Credit – Abhinav Fating

The AI tracker performed exceptionally well while shooting the video, consistently keeping me at the center of the frame as I moved. I even stepped out of the frame to test its tracking capabilities. To my surprise, when I returned to its range, it automatically recognized me and resumed tracking. This feature is incredibly useful for solo content creators who want to film themselves without the assistance of another person. There’s also a dedicated button on top of the AI tracker that allows you to switch off the AI tracking if needed. Impressively, the AI capabilities work seamlessly with the native camera app, requiring no aid from the official Hohem Joy app, which is a nice touch.

Additionally, you can use a few simple hand gestures to activate or deactivate the AI tracking, which is very cool. For example, a double thumbs-up gesture prompts the gimbal to switch between horizontal and vertical orientations; this feature is particularly handy. All the gestures function well overall. However, some still lack fine-tuning and require further polishing. Occasionally, the tracker failed to detect my gestures, but I would estimate that it got things right over 85% of the time.

The only drawback of the AI tracker is that it only tracks people. However, this limitation is not a significant issue.

The companion app, Hohem Joy 

Hohem also offers a dedicated companion app, the Hohem Joy, which enables several additional features. You can use the Hohem Joy app to capture time lapses, slow motion, panoramas, time warp, and more. There is also a separate editor section that provides pre-made video templates, allowing you to create impressive videos. However, the Hohem Joy app is inundated with ads, which can be quite irritating.

Battery Life

Image Credit – Abhinav Fating

Hohem’s iSteady V3 features a 1400mAh battery cell. The company claims that it offers 13 hours of battery life with AI tracking and fill light turned off, and up to 4 hours when both AI tracking and fill light are on. In my real-world testing, the results were fairly consistent. I achieved approximately 11 hours and 45 minutes of battery life with AI tracking off, and around 3 hours and 12 minutes with both AI tracking and the fill light activated. Overall, the battery life of this gimbal is quite impressive.

Pinnacle Selection represents our highest honor, one reserved for products that stand out in design, performance, and overall value.

Products earning this distinction exemplify excellence across the board, delivering an experience that truly rises above the rest.

When you see the badge, you’re looking at the best of what’s available in its category.

Should you buy the Hohem iSteady V3 gimbal? 

You should buy this if…

  • You want a compact lightweight gimbal with a foldable design 
  • You are looking for a gimbal with AI-tracking capabilities 
  • You want a gimbal with a detachable remote control 
  • You need a budget gimbal with great stabilization 
  • You want a user-friendly gimbal 

You shouldn’t buy this if..

  • Your smartphone weighs more than 300 grams 
  • You are looking for a gimbal that can easily shoot very low-angle tracking shots

Final Thoughts

Hohem iSteady V3 gimbal
Image credit – Abhinav Fating

Hohem has done a fantastic job with its latest iSteady V3 gimbal. I’m a huge fan of its 3-axis stabilization, which offers shake-free video footage. Its lightweight, compact, and foldable design makes it highly portable; in fact, it can even fit into your jeans pocket. What makes it even more special are its AI tracking capabilities, which are hard to find, especially at this price point.

The iSteady V3 has an edge over its direct competitors, such as the DJI OSMO Mobile 6 ($139), Insta360 Flow Pro ($149), and Zhiyun Smooth 5 ($149), all of which cost $10 to $20 more than the V2. Moreover, those competitors lack the versatility and features like AI tracking and a detachable remote control that really set the iSteady V3 apart.

However, I have one quibble: you can’t shoot very low-angle tracking shots due to the gimbal’s limited tilt range, which is between 35° downward and 45° upward.

Quibbles aside, the Hohem iSteady V3 checks all the important boxes. It has a sturdy build, an extendable selfie stick, built-in tripod legs, a detachable remote control, a fill light, 3-axis stabilization, a portable design, and AI tracking capabilities. What more could you want in this price range? If you’re looking for a well-built, feature-packed gimbal without spending a fortune, then you can’t go wrong with the Hohem iSteady V3 gimbal.

Stay Charged Anywhere: BLUETTI’s X20 Laptop Power Bank for Gamers and Professionals

AndroidGuys
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Stay Charged Anywhere: BLUETTI’s X20 Laptop Power Bank for Gamers and Professionals

For gaming laptop users, power is everything. Whether you’re deep in a late-night session of League of Legends, taking on a challenging boss in Elden Ring, or competing in an online tournament, running out of battery can be a real game-over moment.

Enter the BLUETTI X20 Portable Power Bank—designed specifically to keep gaming laptops running strong wherever you are. It’s a must-have tool for gamers who need dependable power on the go, ensuring you stay in the game, no matter where you play.

Introducing BLUETTI X20 Laptop Power Bank

Just slightly larger than typical power banks, the BLUETTI X20 Laptop Power Bank measures 205 x 205 x 77 mm (8.0 x 8.0 x 3.0 inches) and weighs only 2.3 kg (about 5 lbs). It can easily slide into backpacks. Its generous power storage justifies its size; equipped with a 153.6Wh LFP battery (48,000mAh capacity), it delivers a total output of 288W, allowing you to charge phones, laptops, tablets, and more simultaneously. With this ultra-portable charger, you can enjoy uninterrupted streaming, movie-watching, or gaming anywhere.

Power 90% Laptops for Gaming, Working, and More

The BLUETTI X20 Power Bank is a versatile powerhouse designed for gamers, remote workers, and anyone who’s always on the go. With a powerful 20V/8A port and 12 swappable connectors, it covers 90% of laptops on the market, including models from Apple, MSI, Lenovo, HP, ASUS, Dell, Samsung, Acer, and beyond.

For gamers: When used with a mid-range 15-inch gaming laptop, the BLUETTI X20 Power Bank can provide around 2-3 full charges, extending your gaming sessions by 6-9 hours.

For remote workers: When powering a laptop for outdoor remote work, the BLUETTI X20 Power Bank provides a reliable power source for up to 12-20 hours, depending on your laptop’s power consumption. This allows you to stay productive and connected, even in remote locations without access to power outlets.

Charge Everything Quickly

When you’re on the move, speed matters. The BLUETTI X20 Laptop Power Bank features four ports for all your devices: a 100W USB-C port, two USB-A ports (18W and 10.5W), and a dedicated 160W laptop port.

In addition to its 100W dual-way fast charging USB-C port, the BLUETTI X20 Laptop Power Bank also supports a variety of fast-charging protocols, including PD 3.0, QC 3.0+, SCP, FCP, and AFC. These protocols enable your devices to charge at maximum speed through their USB-C ports, ensuring you’re always powered up and ready for action.

As a powerful multi-device laptop power station, the BLUETTI X20 is able to keep your iPhones, gaming laptops, headphones, speakers, and controllers powered up simultaneously. Whether you’re on the move or at home, the BLUETTI X20 ensures you’re always ready for action

Built to Last, Engineered for Safety

Underneath its sleek exterior, the BLUETTI X20 Power Bank packs some serious tech. It uses a LiFePO4 battery that boasts 2,500 charge cycles, offering a lifespan of over 6 years—significantly longer than standard lithium-ion batteries. BLUETTI’s integrated AI-powered Battery Management System (BMS) optimizes power efficiency and ensures the BLUETTI X20 runs cool under pressure. With an intelligent fan cooling system that activates only when needed, you won’t have to worry about the device overheating—even when pushing it to its limits. Backed by a two-year warranty and safety certifications from UL, FCC, LVD, EMC, PSE, and RCM, the X20 Power Bank is as reliable as it is robust, always getting ready to withstand the rigors of gaming marathons and remote work demand.

Stay in the Game

The BLUETTI X20 Laptop Power Bank is a game-changer for gamers, ensuring uninterrupted sessions. Its versatility adapts to most laptop users’ needs, whether you’re on a short trip, enjoying a picnic, or working remotely. With the BLUETTI X20 Laptop Power Bank, you can power through your projects, keep your devices charged, and stay connected wherever your lifestyle takes you, making it an ideal companion for both work and leisure.

Price and Availability

Don’t miss out on the limited-time offer for the BLUETTI X20 Laptop Power Bank! Starting October 27th, enjoy a special debut price of just $199, plus an additional 10% discount with the code: X20-PR. This brings your final checkout price to only $179.10! Take advantage of this exclusive deal available on both BLUETTI Official Site and Amazon. Don’t wait—secure your BLUETTI X20 Laptop Power Bank today before it’s sold out! (Please note that all prices mentioned above are tax-exclusive.)

About BLUETTI

As a technology pioneer in clean energy, BLUETTI is committed to a sustainable future by providing affordable green energy storage solutions for both indoor and outdoor use. Through initiatives like the LAAF (Lighting An African Family) program, BLUETTI is dedicated to bringing power to 1 million African families in off-grid areas. With a strong focus on innovation and customer needs, BLUETTI has established itself as a trusted industry leader in over 110 countries and regions.For gaming laptop users, power is everything. Whether you’re deep in a late-night session of League of Legends, taking on a challenging boss in Elden Ring, or competing in an online tournament, running out of battery can be a real game-over moment.

EDITOR NOTE: This is a promoted post and should not be considered an editorial endorsement

Tronsmart Mirtune S100 Review

Andrew Allen
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Tronsmart Mirtune S100 Review

The Tronsmart Mirtune S100 is a new portable Bluetooth speaker that promises to deliver awesome sound quality and a portable design. Tronsmart usually fares well against the big boys in this market, but does it live up to the hype? Let’s take a closer look.

Design

The Mirtune S100 is a compact and stylish speaker that comes in two colors: black with blue and a solid blue variant. It features a retractable handle, making it easy to carry around. The speaker is also IPX7 waterproof, which means it can be submerged in up to 1 meter of water for up to 30 minutes. This makes it ideal for use at the beach, by the pool, or even in the shower.

The overall fit and finish is pretty solid for the price point of just $80. The build has a ruggedness to at that makes you comfortable carrying it anywhere. The fabric covering feels premium and lends to it blending into any environment as well.

The Mirtune S100 offers a range of connectivity options, including Bluetooth 5.3, Aux-in, USB, and Micro SD Card. This means you can connect it to a variety of devices, including your smartphone, tablet, laptop, or MP3 player. The speaker also has a built-in microphone for hands-free calling and accessing your phone’s voice assistant.

Sound

The Mirtune S100 boasts a 2.1 channel audio system with a 50W output power. This combination of a runaway woofer and two tweeters results in an impressive audio experience, delivering powerful bass and clear trebles. You can further customize the sound to your liking using the Tronsmart app, which offers five EQ presets and a customizable EQ option. The app also allows you to control other speaker functions, such as the rainbow light show that can be switched between three beat-driven modes.

The output is again impressive for the price and size of the Tronsmart S100. I thought the bass really punched above expectations. It carries well enough to have it entertain your friends at a busy pool party or inside a more formal setting. The balance of bass and mids is robust and natural voices come through crisp enough. At higher volumes, you can start to get a slight distortion, but you are very much at the maximum levels before this happens.

Battery Life

With a battery life of up to 20 hours, the Mirtune S100 surpasses most speakers in its size category. It also functions as a built-in power bank, allowing you to charge your devices on the go. I’ve found this estimate to be fairly accurate. Even when I’ve pushed it to above the “optimal” 50% volume levels, I have hit close to the 20 hours of endurance.

Charging is pretty straight forward when you deplete the Mirtune S100 completely. There’s a USB-C power port under the auxiliary cover that makes this easily accessible but still lends to the waterproofing.

Final thoughts

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.

The Tronsmart Mirtune S100 is a compelling option in the portable Bluetooth speaker market. Its combination of powerful sound, durable design, long battery life, and versatile features make it suitable for a wide range of activities, from indoor listening to outdoor adventures. The competitive price point further sweetens the deal, positioning the Mirtune S100 as a strong contender against established brands.

As previously mentioned, the Tronsmart Mirtune is available from both Tronsmart and Amazon in two colors: Black (reviewed here) and a blue edition. Hit our links below if the Mirtune S100 piques your interest.

Purchase the Tronsmart Mirtune S100 from Tronsmart

Purchase the Tronsmart Mirtune S100 from Amazon

Baseus Unveils Nomos Series: A Powerful and Versatile Fast-Charging Ecosystem

Andrew Allen
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Baseus Unveils Nomos Series: A Powerful and Versatile Fast-Charging Ecosystem

Baseus, a renowned leader in consumer electronics, introduces its latest innovation: the Nomos Series. This new lineup of fast-charging devices promises to transform how people charge their devices, catering to diverse lifestyles from tech-savvy professionals to hybrid work environments. The series boasts a range of products designed with adaptability, convenience, and superior fast-charging technology in mind.

Redefining Workspace Efficiency with the Baseus Qi2 Nomos Retractable Desktop Charger 140W

This innovative desktop charger aims to declutter workspaces by integrating a retractable USB-C cable capable of delivering 100W of power. The retractable design eliminates the need for multiple charging cables and promotes a tidy work environment. Furthermore, the wireless charging stand folds as needed and magnetically secures smartphones, adding to the charger’s space-saving attributes.

The Nomos 140W Retractable Desktop Charger is a true multitasker, capable of charging up to five devices simultaneously. Its 5-in-1 design encompasses two USB-C ports, a retractable USB-C charging cable port, a magnetic wireless charging port, and a USB-A port, catering to various devices such as smartphones, laptops, iPads, and more.

This charger is not just about convenience, but also about speed. It boasts the title of the world’s first 5-in-1 desktop charger with 140W wired fast charging and Qi2-certified 15W wireless fast charging. Baseus ensures that all devices are powered up rapidly, minimizing downtime.

An intelligent power allocation system with a digital display further enhances the user experience. This system dynamically adjusts current and voltage based on the connected devices’ power requirements and battery levels, ensuring optimal charging for each device. The built-in smart interface allows users to monitor charging details in real-time, providing complete control and transparency.

Maximum Charging Power in a Slim Profile: Introducing the Baseus Nomos Qi2 8-in-1 Slim Charging Station 67W

This charging station redefines portability and power, claiming the title of the world’s slimmest charging station at a mere 0.67 inches thick. Its ultra-thin design makes it perfect for space-constrained desks, travel, and hybrid work environments.

The Nomos 8-in-1 Slim Charging Station can charge up to eight devices concurrently, offering an all-in-one solution for keeping devices powered up. From monitors and PCs to smartphones and headphones, this charging station supports a wide range of devices, keeping workspaces organized and efficient.

The charging station features Qi2-certified 15W wireless charging and up to 67W wired fast charging, ensuring devices are charged quickly and efficiently. A detachable 5ft cord provides flexibility for storage and portability, further enhancing the charger’s adaptability to various workspaces. The wireless charging stand unfolds effortlessly and securely holds smartphones magnetically, combining practicality with sleek design.

On-the-Go Powerhouse: Exploring the Baseus Nomos Qi2 3-in-1 Power Bank with Built-in USB-C Cable 45W 10000mAh

This power bank is designed for users on the move, offering a 3-in-1 solution that combines wired charging, wireless charging, and a built-in kickstand. This versatility caters to various needs, from charging multiple devices to using the kickstand for hands-free viewing on smartphones.

The Nomos Qi2 Magnetic Bracket Power Bank is equipped with a 10000mAh battery capacity and supports both Qi2-certified 15W ultra-fast wireless charging and 45W wired charging. Users can enjoy seamless and rapid charging for their devices, ensuring uninterrupted productivity and entertainment.

This power bank boasts the title of the world’s slimmest KickStand Magnetic Power Bank with 45W wired fast charging and 15W wireless fast charging. Its compact design (106mm x 67.8mm x 19.6mm) makes it easy to carry in bags or pockets, while the built-in kickstand provides added convenience for media consumption.

A smart digital display on the power bank provides real-time charging status and power output, allowing users to monitor their charging progress accurately.

Flexibility and Efficiency in a Cable: The Baseus Nomos Retractable Charging Cable Type-C to Type-C 100W 1.5m

The Nomos Retractable charging cable prioritizes user-friendliness with its one-hand operation design. The cable extends and retracts smoothly, minimizing wear and tear while ensuring effortless use.

This cable provides 100W fast charging output, compatible with a wide range of devices, including laptops, smartphones, and earbuds. Its adaptability extends further with its six adjustable length settings, ranging from 1.5ft to 4.9ft, catering to diverse work environments and desk setups.

The retractable design ensures tangle-free storage, eliminating cable clutter and making it ideal for travel.

Availability and Early Bird Offer

The Nomos Series will be available for purchase starting November 7th. To celebrate the launch, Baseus is offering an exclusive Early Bird discount of 15% on their website and Amazon from October 24th to November 6th. As an added bonus, customers who purchase a Nomos desktop charger, charging station, or power bank during this period will receive a complimentary Mini 100W retractable cable.

Weekend Recommender: Practical Finds for Work, Play, and Relaxation

Scott Webster
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Weekend Recommender: Practical Finds for Work, Play, and Relaxation

As we dive into this week’s edition of the “Weekend Recommender,” we’ve curated a selection of standout products that offer a blend of innovation, safety, and comfort. Whether you’re looking for tech gear tailored for younger audiences or reliable devices to enhance your daily life, this collection promises to deliver quality that you can trust. Let’s explore some must-haves that could elevate your weekend experience.

Vitesy Shelfy

The Vitesy Shelfy is a compact fridge purifier designed to enhance the freshness of your produce while tackling odors and bacteria. Utilizing advanced photocatalytic technology, Shelfy can extend the life of fruits and vegetables by up to 12 days, effectively slowing down the ripening process and reducing ethylene levels. With a filter that decreases bacteria by 99% in just 10 minutes, Shelfy helps to create a cleaner, healthier environment for your food.

This product is beneficial for anyone looking to minimize food waste, making it particularly valuable for families and health-conscious consumers. Its USB-C rechargeable battery lasts up to three weeks, ensuring consistent performance without frequent charging. The Shelfy Hub app allows users to monitor their fridge’s status and get helpful storage tips, ensuring optimal food preservation. Compact and easy to fit in any fridge, Shelfy simplifies the effort to keep food fresher longer while reducing unpleasant odors. $126

Skullcandy Icon ANC

Skullcandy’s Icon ANC headphones offer an impressive blend of durability, sound quality, and smart features. Designed for those on the go, these wireless on-ear headphones provide up to 60 hours of battery life, making them ideal for extended use—whether you’re hitting the gym or embarking on a long commute. The active noise canceling feature helps block distractions, enhanced by a customizable stay-aware mode that allows you to remain aware of your surroundings while enjoying your favorite tunes or podcasts.

With an IPX4 rating, they resist water and sweat, perfect for outdoor enthusiasts. Users can personalize their listening experience through the Skullcandy app, which includes unique EQ settings and the option to activate voice assistants. The collapsible design makes storage easy, while multipoint pairing allows connection to two devices simultaneously. These headphones cater to anyone seeking a reliable sound experience, combining practicality and performance seamlessly. $99

The TOZO Open EarRing

TOZO Open EarRing headphones offer a unique listening experience with their innovative open-ear design, ensuring both comfort and safety. Weighing a mere 5.1g per ear, they are crafted from skin-friendly silicone and high-resilience materials, making them ideal for long hours of wear without discomfort. With a battery life of up to 40 hours—10 hours per charge plus an additional 30 from the case—these headphones provide ample time for music, calls, and podcasts.

The smart LED display on the charging case informs users of battery status, and one-step pairing makes connecting to devices quick and hassle-free. IPX5 water resistance means they are suited for various activities, from workouts to outdoor adventures. Utilizing the TOZO app, users can customize their EQ settings to match personal music preferences. With features like noise cancellation for calls and built-in touch controls, these headphones cater to those seeking convenience without compromising sound quality. $50

Manba One

The Manba One wireless game controller is designed for gamers seeking a customizable and interactive experience. Featuring an innovative 2-inch screen, users can easily configure settings like vibrations, button mappings, and joystick sensitivity directly on the device, eliminating the need for additional apps or software. Compatibility spans multiple platforms, including Switch, iOS, Android, and Windows PC, making it accessible for gamers of various preferences.

One of the standout features is the programmable back keys that can execute macro commands, ideal for competitive play where quick actions are essential. Equipped with an anti-stick Hall Effect joystick and customizable polling rates, the controller excels in speed and responsiveness, particularly in action-packed games. A built-in 1800mAh battery ensures longevity, paired with a smart charging station for convenient charging and battery life monitoring. Ideal for casual and serious gamers alike, the Manba One offers flexibility and personalization to enhance gameplay. $70

iClever BTH20

iClever’s BTH20 Active Noise-Canceling Headphones offer an excellent solution for parents who prioritize both sound quality and hearing protection for their kids. With up to 40dB of noise reduction, these headphones utilize advanced active and passive noise-canceling technologies to create immersive listening experiences, whether during travel, study sessions, or relaxed music time.

Designed specifically for comfort, they feature a gentle noise reduction mode suitable for quieter environments, while the enhanced mode effectively blocks out louder disturbances like engine noise. The pressure-reducing design, flexible earcups, and adjustable headband accommodate various head sizes for a snug fit.

Safety is paramount, with BPA and PVC-free materials, alongside iClever’s Sound Refiner technology that limits volume levels to 80dBA, ensuring healthier listening habits. With an impressive 60 hours of playtime, quick charging capabilities, and compatibility with a 3.5mm audio cable, the BTH20s provide a dependable choice for children aged three and up. $40

Plaud NotePin Review

Scott Webster
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0
Plaud NotePin Review

The Plaud NotePin is a voice recorder disguised as a fitness tracker, priced at $169. It captures audio, transcribes it, and summarizes recordings using AI. It’s designed for those who regularly need quick, accessible voice notes. This little gadget works well, though it might leave some wondering if they really need it when their phones offer similar features. 

Design and Setup  

The NotePin resembles a slim fitness band, with attachments for your wrist, neck, or clothes, making it easy to carry around and access. It’s as simple as pressing once to start recording (a small vibration confirms it’s working) and twice to stop. The device stores audio on its 64GB memory or uploads it to Plaud’s cloud, which the company assures is encrypted.

Its simplicity is both a strength and a bit of a curse. The NotePin can record unintentionally — more than once, I found a few hours of accidental recordings because I’d triggered it by bumping into something. This happened more when wearing on the wrist; I did not spend much time with it as a necklace. A software tweak to require a long press would likely help, unless you enjoy re-listening to your fridge hum for an hour.

Performance and Features  

Setting up the NotePin is quick. Recordings upload to the Plaud app, where they can be transcribed using one of 12 templates (or 20 with a subscription). Templates range from interviews to lectures and make organizing notes smoother. The transcriptions are accurate, and a mind-map summary accompanies each file, useful for a quick scan. It’s like a personal stenographer, minus the legal fees.

The device uses two MEMS microphones, which perform admirably in realistic scenarios — enough to transcribe conversations clearly but unlikely to land you a Grammy for sound production. Background noise doesn’t confuse it much, and recordings are easy to trim from the app if needed. While these features deliver, don’t expect miracles; it’s designed to make text, not art.

Battery and Charging  

The NotePin promises 40 days of standby time and about 18 to 20 hours of active use. Testing seemingly confirmed that these numbers are reasonable, give or take a little depending on usage.

Charging is handled via a proprietary magnetic dock, which feels fancy but also like something that will vanish into the same void that claims socks from the dryer. A USB-C option would’ve been more practical.

Where It Stumbles  

The NotePin does what it promises, but it could use more connection with other apps. It can accurately capture your grocery list but won’t add it to the shopping app you already use. It’ll recognize a reminder to buy retinol, but it won’t ping you when it’s time to do it. This leaves the Plaud app feeling like an isolated notebook, making it hard to justify the gadget over using a phone with integrated tools.

The discreet design brings another quirk. Wearing the NotePin on your wrist makes it look like any other fitness tracker, which is great — until you realize it could record conversations without anyone noticing. That’s a feature some might call useful, and others might call awkward.

Who Should be Interested in the NotePin?

In thinking about the Plaud NotePin, I can imagine it being rather appealing to specific user type. Individuals who frequently capture audio on the go and who benefit from quick transcription and summary tools come to mind. More specifically, the following:

  1. Journalists – Field reporters or interviewers needing fast, easy recordings with accurate transcriptions to streamline their writing process.
  2. Students – Those attending lectures or participating in study groups may find the NotePin useful for capturing spoken material without missing key points.
  3. Lawyers and Legal Professionals – Recording meetings or depositions for later reference can help with documentation and case preparation.
  4. Medical Professionals – Doctors and healthcare workers might use it for patient notes or team briefings, speeding up administrative tasks.
  5. Business Professionals – Executives or consultants who need to capture ideas during meetings, client discussions, or brainstorming sessions.
  6. Podcasters and Creators – Those who like to record spontaneous thoughts or conversations to later shape into content or episodes.

While the NotePin’s accessibility makes it a good fit for busy professionals, students, and creatives, it may appeal most to users who value having a dedicated gadget that saves time by eliminating the need to dig out a phone.

Value and Availability  

At $169, the NotePin delivers exactly what it promises. Five hours of transcription per month come with the purchase, and for $7 a month, you get 20 hours and more templates. It’s good for those who need frequent, organized recordings. Yet, considering the recording features built into phones like Google’s Pixel and Apple’s upcoming software updates, the NotePin feels like a niche product that duplicates tools many users already have.

The simplicity of the NotePin is appealing, but it tends to spend more time sitting on my desk than being used. My routine doesn’t call for it every day, though I can’t shake the feeling that there will be moments when I’ll wish I had it with me.

The app would be much more useful if it allowed me to share recordings directly with other apps. Right now, it feels a bit like a digital notebook—great within its own ecosystem, but lacking the option to easily export or integrate content elsewhere.

In practice, it might make more sense to record conversations on my phone and then process them through tools like Gemini, Notebook LLM, or ChatGPT. That approach offers more flexibility, and it doesn’t require carrying an extra device.

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  

The Plaud NotePin offers solid performance and convenience, but its biggest competition might just be your smartphone. It’s a nifty gadget for those who enjoy having a dedicated recording tool at their fingertips. For everyone else, the convenience of just using an app on your phone might be enough. If you prefer a specialized device that keeps up with your thoughts — and don’t mind the occasional accidental fridge symphony — the NotePin is worth a look.

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