INTRODUCTION

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

    Modern high‑performance systems place unprecedented demands on their power supplies, especially as GPUs and CPUs continue to push higher transient loads and sharper power excursions. This has shifted the PSU from a background component to a critical part of system stability, where electrical behavior under dynamic conditions matters just as much as raw wattage. ATX 3.1 and PCIe 5.1 have become the new baseline for next‑generation builds, defining stricter transient‑response requirements and introducing the 12V‑2x6 connector for safer, higher‑capacity GPU power delivery. The FV‑1200PM represents Formula V Line’s entry into the Platinum‑class ATX 3.1 and PCIe 5.1 space and that's obviously also what today's review is all about.

    Formula V Line is a Taiwanese company founded by a group of professionals in 2012. Our main product lines include various computer cases, power supplies and air-cooling systems for computers. Our research and development team can bring your best ideas to life. Formula V Line's mission is to create reliable products with the best price-quality ratio. For more information, visit http://formulav-line.com/

    The FV PM line of power supply units currently includes three output variants (850/1000/1200W) available in both black and white colors. The 1200W output model which I have here with me today is ATX 3.1 & PCIe 5.1 compliant and 80 PLUS Platinum certified (up to 92% efficiency) and features a single 12V-2x6 power connector, four 6+2 pin PCIe power connectors, single +12V rail (100A) capable of delivering 100% of the units’ power output (1200W) and has a total power output of no less than 1348W (peak should be up to 2700W for up to 100ms - once again however this is not something I can test). The FV-1200PM also features a half-bridge & LLC Resonant Converter with DC to DC design, active PFC, zero fan mode for its 120mm fan (starts spinning after 40% load), high-quality Japanese capacitors certified for use up to 105 degrees Celsius and a full array of electrical protections including over-current (OCP), over-voltage (OVP), under-voltage (UVP), short-circuit (SCP), over-temperature (OTP), surge and in-rush (SIP), no-load operation (NLO) and over-power (OPP). As for warranty Formula V Line covers the entire FV PM line of PSUs with a 10-year limited one.

 

 

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SPECIFICATIONS AND FEATURES

 

 

 

 

 

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PACKAGING AND CONTENTS

 

 

 

 

 

A partial product picture is placed at the front of the box along with the company logo and the main product features.

 

 

The electrical tables of all three available models are printed at the rear.

 

 

Typically, the unit is wrapped inside a synthetic cover and placed between two pieces of foam.

 

 

Along with the FV-1200PM, its power cord and modular cables inside the box you'll also find 4 zip ties, 4 mounting screws and the user manual.

 

 

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THE FV-1200PM EXTERIOR

 

 

 

 

 

All modular cables feature individually sleeved cables, including the 12V-2x6 cable.

 

 

Measuring just 140mm in width, 150mm in length and 86mm in height the FV-1200PM is a compact model.

 

 

Formula V Line has chosen to use an 120mm fan with this model.

 

 

The company logo is printed on both sides.

 

 

As usual the electrical table is printed on a sticker located at the base of the enclosure.

 

 

All 12 modular power ports are tagged.

 

 

At the rear of the unit, we find the on/off and hybrid fan switches and the power port.

 

 

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THE FV-1200PM INTERIOR

 

 

 

 

 

Formula V Line has removed the name of the fan manufacturer so I don't know its specifications.

 

 

The OEM behind the FV-1200PM is Dongguan Sanren (SANR).

 

 

Primary capacitors are manufactured by Rubycon and are certified for use up to 105 degrees Celsius.

 

 

Secondary capacitors are manufactured by Nippon Chemi-Con and Rubycon and are again certified for use up to 105 degrees Celsius.

 

 

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TEST BED

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

TESTING METHODOLOGY

     Using a dedicated measurement instrument such as a Chroma or a SunMoon to test power supply units is without doubt the most ideal and accurate way (not to mention the fastest) to do that currently. However, it's certainly not the only way there is and so pretty much anyone can test a power supply unit just by using a test rig. Certainly, limitations do apply and so you can't really push a 1000W power supply to its limits if your system only uses 500W at peak loads and that's why over the years we saved certain hardware components for the purpose of building a dedicated PSU test rig. True it may not be as accurate as the above-mentioned solutions, but it comes really close and is in fact much closer to real world usage. So as always, we ran several games with maximum graphic options enabled at a resolution of 2560x1600 in order to stress every hardware component and increase the overall power demands of the system. The Passmark BurnIn Test was also used to overstress the components in an effort to provide the most accurate results possible. As a final test we also used the latest OCCT software and its dedicated PSU testing suite since it can really bring a power supply to its knees after inside a few minutes.

   Rail stability was checked/measured with the CPUID Hardware monitor and a Metex multimeter which also recorded the system load in idle and in load. As always try to remember that the power consumption numbers listed in the graph are the highest (Peak) ones recorded during the entire duration of the tests and not the average ones. Noise levels coming from the fan were recorded using the high precision HD600 ExTech Sound dBA Meter from the rear of the unit and at a range of no more than 5-10cm. Readings under load are recorded the exact moment we manually switch the fans of all graphics cards from full speed to almost zero, that way the fan of the power supply does not have enough time to slow its RPM and so by doing this we get very accurate noise level readings. Needless to say, in order to get 100% accurate readings, you need to have a noise isolated room for that exact purpose, something which is quite impossible unless you are working inside a real lab (some people use very small noise insulated boxes but due to their size both heat and noise exceed normal levels and so the results can't really be considered to be 100% accurate, nor realistic for that matter). Also do take into account that since all noise measurements take place from just 5-10cm away the final noise levels to reach your ears will be considerably less.

* After well over 10 years of testing PSUs the Intel Core i7-920 CPU of this rig failed and so we replaced it with a Xeon X5660 (we also swapped the GA-X58A-UD7 for the G1. Assassin).

 

 

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TEST RESULTS

 

 

 

 

 

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CONCLUSION

 

 

 

 

 

 

    As the review comes to a close, the Formula V Line FV‑1200PM proves itself to be a well‑rounded Platinum‑class option with clear strengths. It delivers very good rail stability, relatively low noise levels, and a compact footprint that makes installation easier than many competing 1200W units. Its 80 PLUS Platinum efficiency keeps thermals and power waste low, reinforcing the PSU’s overall refinement. The drawbacks are modest but worth noting, SANR isn’t the most established OEM (somewhat popular lately however), the single 12V‑2x6 connector limits flexibility for future GPU configurations, and the model’s very low availability makes it harder to source. Even so, the FV‑1200PM stands as a capable, efficient, and quiet ATX 3.1 & PCIe 5.1 unit.

    Even though like many other models by Formula V Line the FV-1200PM 80 PLUS Platinum power supply unit is not widely available it does retail around the world for around USD160/160Euros and so it’s priced well, more or less. Availability and cost aside the FV-1200PM performs very well, does so without its 120mm fan becoming annoying and is covered by a 10-year limited warranty so the Golden Award is in order.

PROS

- Build Quality (100% Japanese Capacitors)
- Good Rail Stability
- ATX 3.1 & PCIe 5.1 Compliant
- 80 PLUS Platinum Certified
- 1200W Output
- Electrical Protections (OCP/OVP/SSP/OPP/UVP/SPD/OTP/SIP/NLO)
- Available In Black And White Colors
- 10 Year Limited Warranty

CONS

- Availability (Current)
- OEM Manufacturer (For Some)

 

 

INTRODUCTION

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

    Across the landscape of gaming headsets, from the dependable clarity of wired models to the untethered freedom of wireless designs, the conversation always circles back to precision, comfort, and long‑session endurance. Wired options still appeal to purists who want zero latency and a connection that never wavers, while wireless headsets have evolved into low‑latency, multi‑device tools that keep your setup clean and your movement unrestricted. At the high end, the best models blend both worlds, audiophile‑grade drivers, premium build quality, and connectivity that adapts to whatever the game, or the day demands. It’s exactly in this refined tier that the Arctis Nova Pro Omni Hi-Res Wireless Gaming Headset by SteelSeries steps in, aiming to deliver a flagship experience for players who want everything without compromise.

    SteelSeries is the original esports brand that fuses gaming & culture, leading the way in defining a gaming lifestyle, and we have the power to help gamers through our brand, our vision, and our products. The role that gaming plays in moving culture forward is essential, and our worldwide brand creates industry-defining gaming and lifestyle peripherals with a focus on premium quality, innovation, and functionality. SteelSeries is obsessed with helping make a difference by enhancing performance through first-to-market innovations and technologies that empower gamers and fans to push boundaries. Founded in 2001, SteelSeries was the pioneering supporter of esports and competitive gaming tournaments and continues to connect gamers and foster a sense of community and purpose. The SteelSeries family of professional and gaming enthusiasts, entertainers, and athletes is the driving force behind the company and helps influence the design, craftsmanship, and engineering in every piece of gear we create, as well as the brand’s software ecosystem (SteelSeries GG, Moments video clip service, and the Sonar Audio Software Suite). The SteelSeries family of brands includes KontrolFreek, the industry leader in high-performance controller accessories, and Nahimic, the leader in 3D sound solutions for gaming. In 2022, SteelSeries joined the GN family, a global leader in innovative and intelligent audio and video communications solutions sold in approximately 100 countries around the globe.

    SteelSeries packs the Arctis Nova Pro Omni with a stack of high‑end tech. Its Nova Acoustic System combines 40mm neodymium custom high‑fidelity drivers with a 96kHz/24‑bit capable signal path (10Hz-40kHz frequency response), pushing clarity, spatial accuracy, and low‑noise reproduction far beyond typical gaming headsets. The OmniPlay multi‑system architecture expands that foundation across PC, PlayStation, Xbox, Switch, and mobile, using a unified control ecosystem (3.5mm, USB-C, 2.4GHz and Bluetooth v5.3) so you can move between devices without re‑pairing or losing settings. Communication is handled by the ClearCast Gen 2 microphone, a retractable omni-directional boom model (32kHz/16bit, 50Hz-16kHz frequency response) with AI‑powered noise filtering that isolates your voice while suppressing keystrokes, fans, and room noise. For environmental control, the headset integrates hybrid Active Noise Cancellation with outward and inward facing microphones, plus a Transparency Mode that lets you monitor surroundings without removing the headset. Power is effectively continuous thanks to the Infinite Power System, which uses two hot‑swappable batteries and a base station charger so you can run indefinitely. SteelSeries GG software suite ties everything together, Sonar provides parametric EQ, spatial audio tuning, mic shaping, and cross‑device profiles, while the mobile app gives you on‑the‑fly control of EQ, ANC, and device switching. Add in the premium build steel headband, adjustable ComfortMAX fit system, soft‑touch ear cushions, and a design meant for marathon sessions and the Nova Pro Omni reads less like a gaming headset and more like a fully integrated audio command center.

 

 

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SPECIFICATIONS AND FEATURES

 

 

 

 

 

 

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PACKAGING AND CONTENTS

 

 

 

 

 

 

Typically, at the front of the box, we find a large product picture, company logo and the main product features.

 

 

The product features and specifications along with the contents of the bundle are printed on the left side.

 

 

4 pictures are used to showcase the main product features at the rear of the box.

 

 

The headset is wrapped inside a cloth storage pouch and placed in a formed piece of plastic.

 

 

Aside the Arctic Nova Pro Omni inside the box you'll also find the gamehub, extra 670mAh lithium-ion battery, microphone pop filter, two 1.5-meter-long USB-C to USB-A cables and the product information guide.

 

 

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THE ARCTIS NOVA PRO OMNI

 

 

 

 

 

 

The Arctis Nova Pro Omni weigh 339g and are made of aluminum, plastic, foam and leatherette.

 

 

This is a medium sized gaming headset.

 

 

SteelSeries has placed their logo on the exterior of both earcups.

 

 

These plastic discs are magnetically attached to the exterior of the earcups and can be removed (in the case of the left earcup it covers the USB-C charging port).

 

 

Each earcup has ANC microphones on top as seen above.

 

 

The retractable boom microphone is flexible and has a activity LED at the front.

 

 

On the exterior of the left earcup we find the 3.5mm port, volume control roller, microphone mute button, on/off button and an activity LED.

 

 

The magnetically attached plastic disc on the exterior of the right earcup protects the lithium-ion battery compartment.

 

 

The power button is also located at the rear of the right earcup.

 

 

Thanks to the design of the joints the Arctis Nova Pro Omni earcups can swivel up to 90 degrees.

 

 

The earpads are medium sized so I expect that they will not be able to accommodate all ear sizes.

 

 

Once again SteelSeries uses the suspension (in part) design they were the ones to introduce many years ago.

 

 

Even though the suspension design helps achieve high comfort levels the Arctis Nova Pro Omni also extend up to 35mm on either side.

 

 

The gamehub device is similar to what SteelSeries has used in the past so again at the front we find an OLED screen and a control knob.

 

 

A charging bay for the lithium-ion batteries is located on the right side (use one with the headset while charging the other).

 

 

The 3.5mm and three USB-C ports are located at the rear of the gamehub.

 

 

Info on the gamehub is printed on a sticker located on its base.

 

 

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THE GAMEHUB

 

 

 

 

 

 

Initial tab showcases the 48kHz/24bit audio output, ChatMix wheel (shows how game and chat audio are balanced - can adjust via the wheel) and the current battery charge.

 

 

You can also switch between inputs, and access audio options like the equalizer (lets the end user choose or tweak a sound profile), gain (output strength), noise control (adjusts how much background noise gets filtered), microphone, connectivity, line out and audio output.

 

 

From inside the system settings area, you can adjust the display (brightness/behavior), mic LED intensity, Sounds (controls UI beeps), auto off (defines when the unit powers down) and power saving (toggles energy‑saving behavior).

 

 

Finally, we have the about (shows firmware and device info), tutorial and reset tabs.

 

 

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GG SOFTWARE

 

 

 

 

 

 

There are three ways to "control" the Arctis Nova Pro Omni, either via the Gamehub, GG PC software or the smartphone app for when used with consoles.

Once again, this software detects connected devices by SteelSeries and informs you of available firmware updates (there were for both the Arctis Nova Pro Omni and the GameHub).

 

 

From the initial tab you can tweak the equalizer, load one of the many available presets, switch between 2.4GHz and Bluetooth, adjust the microphone volume and noise control and even enable/disable a volume limiter.

 

 

Of course from the microphone tab you can also adjust its equalizer, volume, sidetone, noise control and mute LED brightness.

 

 

You can also adjust the inactivity turn off timer, set the OLED screen brightness, adjust the OLED screen display mode, enable the screensaver feature, set the prefered Bluetooth call function, and perform a factory reset.

 

 

The sonar audio optimization is an important feature and as with pas headsets by SteelSeries there are 4 main tabs inside the Sonar tab the first of which is mixer which controls the volume across all of them.

 

 

Then we have game which allows you to set the equalizer (can make your own or choose one of the almost 300 presets), enable/disable spatial audio and the volume boost and smart volume modes.

 

 

Under the chat tab we find everything related to chat including equalizer, clearcast AI noise cancellation, noise reduction, compressor and noise gate.

 

 

The mic tab is almost identical to the chat one so again from here you can access the equalizer function, clearcast AI noise cancellation, noise reduction, compressor, and noise gate.

 

 

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CONCLUSION

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

    Stepping back from the feature list and looking at the Nova Pro Omni as a complete package, what stands out to me is how confidently it delivers on the fundamentals that matter in a flagship headset. The Hi‑Res audio chain gives it a level of clarity and spatial precision that feels immediately more refined than typical gaming‑tuned sound, and the build quality reinforces that impression with its steel frame, clean adjustments, and long‑session comfort. The multi‑device compatibility is another major strength in my experience; it behaves less like a single headset and more like a central audio hub that adapts to whatever you’re using at the moment. And the dual‑battery Infinite Power system remains one of the smartest design choices here—being able to swap batteries without ever powering down makes the headset feel genuinely uninterrupted in day‑to‑day use (battery life can last anywhere between 15 and 22 hours, depending on usage). The trade‑offs on the other hand are real, but they don’t overshadow the overall experience. The volume behavior, especially at the upper end, doesn’t always scale the way I’d like, and the premium price puts it firmly in enthusiast territory. But even with those limitations, the broader picture doesn’t change, the SteelSeries Nova Pro Omni succeeds because its strongest qualities like audio fidelity, construction, platform flexibility, and battery design are executed with a level of consistency that justifies its ambitions.

    SteelSeries released the Arctis Nova Pro Omni just over a month ago and currently it retails for USD399.99 inside the USA (Amazon.com) and for 416.80Euros inside the EU (Amazon.de). This means that just like their previous Arctis Nova Pro models this is a wireless gaming headset with a specific target audience. Price aside however the Arctis Nova Pro Omni delivers as advertised and even though I do think it could be better (perhaps that’s exactly what the Elite model is – will try to get it in the lab next) it’s still more than enough for the Golden Award.

PROS

- Good Build Quality
- HiRes Audio Quality (96kHz/24bit)
- OLED GameHub (Up To 4 Audio Sources)
- 2 Lithium Ion Rechargeable Batteries (Up To 30 Hours Each)
- Very Comfortable
- Positioning Audio Via Sonar 7.1
- Universal Compatibility
- SteelSeries GG Software
- Available In 3 Colors (Black, White & Midnight Blue)

CONS

- Price (For Some)
- Volume Levels
- Sonar Software Feature (PC Only)

 

 

INTRODUCTION

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

    A new GPU generation always arrives with a mix of expectation and skepticism, especially in an era where ray tracing, AI‑assisted rendering, and increasingly complex game engines push hardware harder than ever. NVIDIA’s GeForce 50‑series marked a clear architectural pivot toward neural‑assisted graphics, blending traditional raster performance with machine‑learning‑driven techniques that reshape how frames are built. And after a long wait - nearly 18 months since its original launch window - NVIDIA finally sent over the GeForce RTX 5070 Founders Edition, a card positioned to show what Blackwell’s mid‑range silicon can really do.

    NVIDIA (NASDAQ: NVDA) is the world leader in AI and accelerated computing. The pioneer of GPU-accelerated computing, NVIDIA specializes in products and platforms for the large, growing markets of gaming, professional visualization, data center, and automotive.

    The GeForce RTX 5070 is built on the GB205 silicon with 48 SMs (streaming multiprocessors), delivering 6144 CUDA cores, 192 Tensor cores, 48 RT cores, 192 TMUs, and 80 ROPs, backed by 48MB L2 cache. It features 12GB GDDR7 on a 192‑bit bus running at 28Gbps, yielding 672GB/s bandwidth. GPU boost clocks reach 2512MHz, and the card implements PCIe 5.0x16. The GB205 die includes 5 GPCs, plus one each of the latest NVENC and NVDEC engines, all fabricated on NVIDIA’s 4N process. It also introduces Neural Rendering powered by Blackwell’s AI‑driven graphics pipeline, combining neural objects with traditional rasterization through the new AI Management Processor. It adds concurrent FP32+INT32 execution on every CUDA core, 4th‑gen RT cores prepared for Mega Geometry, and 5th‑gen Tensor cores with FP4 support. The Founders Edition uses a compact Dual Flow‑Through cooler within SFF‑Ready dimensions and targets higher sustained clocks with a 250W TGP. PCIe 5.0, next‑gen NVENC/NVDEC, and architectural IPC gains round out the generational uplift.

 

 

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SPECIFICATIONS AND FEATURES

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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PACKAGING AND CONTENTS

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

NVIDIA uses a simple cardboard box (probably from recycled paper) to ship the GeForce RTX 5070 FE.

 

 

The card itself is actually placed inside a secondary box (probably also made by recycled materials).

 

 

Along with the GeForce RTX 5070 Founders Edition card NVIDIA has placed just a two 8-pin PCIe to 12V-2x6 power adapter and a quick start guide.

 

 

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THE GEFORCE RTX 5070 FE

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Just like with past Founders Edition models the GeForce RTX 5070 FE carries the same industrial design language NVIDIA has refined over the last few generations, a dense, sculpted block of aluminum with a minimalist, almost architectural presence.

 

 

The matte metal frame wraps around the card in a seamless loop, interrupted only by the signature X‑shaped brace that gives the cooler its rigid, engineered look.

 

 

On the front, the dual‑axial fans dominate the design, large, quiet, and framed with precision, giving the card a sense of purpose rather than decoration.

 

 

The top has two long openings and the 12V-2x6 power connector.

 

 

The rear exhaust cutout and the clean row of display outputs (3xDP v2.1b / 1xHDMI v2.1b) reinforce that functional aesthetic.

 

 

Yes, for some people the lack of RGB/ARGB lighting may push them towards models by NVIDIA partners but I think it looks great.

 

 

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TEST BED

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

TESTING METHODOLOGY

 

    Since I changed my graphics card test rig i decided to tweak things a bit and so the entire testing methodology has changed. So, for the foreseeable future for tests, I’ll be using the EV3285 monitor by EIZO (later on I may also add tri-monitor results since I do have 2 cockpits here in the lab) for 2160p UHD (3840x2160p), 1440p (2560x1440p) and 1080p Full HD (1920x1080p) tests. Needless to say, since most of you voted for it, I’ll also be using the Intel Core I9-13900K (5.8GHz P/4.7GHz E/4.9GHz RING), EVGA Z790 DARK test rig which I’ve completed with the Kingston FURY RENEGADE LIMITED EDITION 48GB DDR5 8000MHz CL36 dual-channel kit.

    Most games have also been changed so instead of manually testing every single one (and always allowing a small percentage of error) i chose all the latest ones to feature a built-in benchmark. In certain cases, built-in benchmarks may perform better than in-game, but my purpose is comparison and not what one can expect in terms of in-game performance. So, this list includes Chernobylite, Cyberpunk 2077, F1 2022, Far Cry 6, Forza Horizon 5, Guardians Of The Galaxy, Horizon Zero Dawn CE, Metro Exodus Enhanced Edition, Red Dead Redemption 2 and Returnal. Also, since some of you have asked for Synthetic benchmarks in the past, I’ll also be using Speed Way and Port Royal from 3D Mark.

    As with the past options like power saving, sharpness, overlays and even zero fan mode are all disabled in the cards we’re testing (to achieve the purest and maximum performance) and all tests are repeated a total of 3 times in a fresh Windows 11 Pro installation with all updates installed until the day of our review (same as all the games used). Room temperature is as usual controlled and steady at 23 degrees Celsius for all tests and to record the temperatures of the cards we used AIDA64, and GPU-Z. Recording noise levels is done with an ExTech HD600 dBA meter from a distance of just 15cm away while power consumption is measured again using GPU-Z.

 

 

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TEST RESULTS – SPEED WAY

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

3DMark Speed Way’s engine is assembled to demonstrate what the latest DirectX API (12 Ultimate) brings to ray traced gaming, using DirectX Raytracing tier 1.1 for real-time global illumination and real-time raytraced reflections, coupled with new performance optimizations like Mesh Shaders.

 

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TEST RESULTS – PORT ROYAL

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

3DMark Port Royal is the world’s first real-time ray tracing benchmark for gamers. It shows you how well your PC handles ray tracing effects in real-time.

 

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TEST RESULTS – CHERNOBYLITE

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Chernobylite is a 1st person RPG set in the hyper-realistic, 3D-scanned wasteland of Chernobyl's Exclusion Zone. It's based on Unreal Engine 4 and will be used at Ultra graphics (RT Ultra/Off).

 

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TEST RESULTS – CYBERPUNK 2077

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Cyberpunk 2077 is the latest game by CD Project and is based on their REDEngine 4. Graphics are set at Ultra/Psycho (RT Psycho/Off).

 

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TEST RESULTS – F1 2022

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

F1 2022 is built on Codemasters' in-house engine, EGO, which has been upgraded to include DX12 and Raytracing. Graphics are set to Ultra High (RT is enabled in all tests).

 

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TEST RESULTS – FAR CRY 6

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Far Cry 6 is based on the Dunia engine. Graphics are set to Ultra with DXR enabled.

 

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TEST RESULTS – FORZA HORIZON 5

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Forza Horizon 5 uses ForzaTech, a proprietary engine built by Turn 10. Graphics are set to Extreme (RT is always enabled at high).

 

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TEST RESULTS - GUARDIANS OF THE GALAXY

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Guardians Of The Galaxy is based on the Dawn Engine by EIDOS. Graphics are set to maximum (RT Ultra/Off).

 

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TEST RESULTS - HORIZON ZERO DAWN CE

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Horizon Zero Dawn CE (Complete Edition) is based on Guerrilla Games' Decima engine. Graphics are set to Ultimate Quality.

 

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TEST RESULTS - METRO EXODUS ENHANCED EDITION

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Metro Exodus Enhanced Edition is based on the 4A Engine and contains huge graphical upgrades compared to the normal version, including Ray Traced Emissive Lighting. Graphics are set at Extreme quality.

 

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TEST RESULTS – RED DEAD REDEMPTION 2

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

For Red Dead Redemption 2 Rockstar has used their RAGE engine (Rockstar Advanced Game Engine). Graphics preset level slider is set to favor quality.

 

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TEST RESULTS – RETURNAL

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Returnal is also based on Unreal Engine 4. Graphics are set to EPIC (RT EPIC/Off).

 

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TEST RESULTS – MULTI FRAME GENERATION / BLACK MYTH WUKONG / F1 2025 / CYBERPUNK 2077 PHANTOM LIBERTY

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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TEST RESULTS - OVERCLOCKING

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Using 406MHz extra on the core and 350MHz on the VRAM (strangely enough GPUZ didn’t show the jump in RAM speed) resulted in a very good boost in performance (going higher would result in games crashing to desktop). I also recommend tweaking voltage curves since undervolting this card is quite easy (recommend MSI Afterburner for anything OC).

 

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TEST RESULTS - POWER CONSUMPTION / TEMPERATURES / NOISE LEVELS

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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CONCLUSION

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

    NVIDIA taking so long to send over a GeForce RTX 5070 FE sample ended up being both a blessing and a drawback. On the positive side, over a year's worth of driver updates have noticeably improved the card’s performance compared to launch. On the negative side, eighteen months is a long wait in this industry. NVIDIA also put extra emphasis on DLSS 4.5 and Multi‑Frame Generation with the GeForce RTX 5xxx series, so I evaluated those gains by adding DLSS tests across several titles and using Black Myth Wukong, Cyberpunk 2077 Phantom Liberty, and F1 2025 to measure MFG performance (DLSS Quality mode, 2x/4x MFG). So, from my time with the GeForce RTX 5070 Founders Edition, it’s clear that DLSS 4.5 and Multi‑Frame Generation aren’t optional extras, they’re the backbone of the experience. Raw performance alone puts the card in familiar 70‑series territory (Raster performance alone is a small improvement over the RTX 4070, and even ray‑traced workloads don’t dramatically shift the hierarchy), but once you flip on DLSS 4.5, the GPU suddenly feels a tier higher. The updated transformer model cleans up motion stability, and Dynamic MFG although not quite perfect yet does a very good job of pushing frame rates right up to your panel’s refresh ceiling without the jitter or input‑lag spikes older FG versions struggled with. Even 4x and 6x MFG modes feel surprisingly natural, delivering a level of fluidity that belies the card’s mid‑range positioning. Yes, you can still spot the occasional artifact in chaotic scenes (in my case I encountered instant white screens a few times), but the trade‑off is overwhelmingly worth it, DLSS 4.5 is what transforms the RTX 5070 from “solid” to “genuinely exciting” in modern AAA workloads. Power consumption is another quiet win since in most cases during real gaming the GeForce RTX 5070 hardly ever surpasses 200W (although during all my benchmarks it did break the 250W barrier), making it both cooler and more efficient than you’d expect for this class. Unfortunately, even though the cooling system is sufficient in order for NVIDIA to keep noise levels at low levels they had to compromise.

    NVIDIA’s GeForce RTX 5070 Founders Edition has quietly slipped out of the retail ecosystem, no store lists it, no distributor expects it, and NVIDIA hasn’t pushed any new batches. With the FE effectively gone, the only remaining path is to pick from the various AIC partner designs, which currently start at around USD549–579 in the USA and roughly 620–670Euros in the EU for brand‑new cards. In terms of price‑to‑performance, the GeForce RTX 5070 lands in a strong position, it outpaces the previous‑gen RTX 4070 while launching at a lower street price, and on the AMD side, the only real modern counter is the RX 9070 GRE, a card that trades blows in pure raster but still falls behind once ray‑tracing and mixed workloads enter the picture, leaving the GeForce RTX 5070 as the more balanced option at roughly the same money. Overall, the GeForce RTX 5070 FE delivers where it matters and even though it’s not quite perfect the Golden Award is in order.

PROS

- Build Quality
- Design
- Excellent 1440p Performance
- Supported Technologies (DLSS 4.5 / MFG / Reflex / GSync)
- Size (242x112x39mm, 2 Slot Card)
- Good Overclocking Headroom
- Power Consumption, Noise Levels

CONS

- 12GB (For Some)
- Temperatures
- Availability

 

 

INTRODUCTION

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

    Today’s DIY users expect more than simple convenience, they want tools engineered for accuracy, torque consistency, and reliability across a wide range of materials and tasks. Compact electric drivers and precision tools have become essential for anyone who repairs electronics, builds small projects, or maintains equipment at home. This shift toward high‑efficiency compact drivers has pushed manufacturers to deliver smaller housings, smarter control systems, and stronger motors without sacrificing ergonomics. Fanttik’s latest trio—the C8 Nano, NEX K2 Ultra, and F2 Pro fits squarely into that evolution, offering three distinct form factors built for different levels of precision and power.

    Fanttik is a premier provider of innovative power tools. The brand is the Official Partner of the Houston Rockets for the 2025-26 NBA season, and served as an Official Partner of UFC in 2025. Since 2022, Fanttik has been a primary partner for multiple NASCAR drivers such as Noah Gragson. The brand’s compelling digital content has amassed over 1.1 billion video views on TikTok, and its products are available in major retail channels including Walmart, Lowe’s, Sam’s Club, and Costco. Guided by its brand slogan “Ideas for a Fantastic Life,” Fanttik continues to empower users to build their ideas simply.

    Fanttik’s trio of compact tools the F2 Pro, NEX K2 Ultra, and C8 Nano cover an unusually wide range of DIY and craft work without stepping on each other’s toes. The F2 Pro is the precision piece of the lineup, a cordless rotary tool built around a 5‑speed, 5000–25000 RPM motor, paired with a 3000mAh lithium-ion battery and a pressure‑sensitive control switch that gives you fine control over engraving, polishing, sanding, and light cutting. Its accessory system is unusually polished, with the RevoStor magnetic hub and a pop‑up aluminum case that keeps all 55 included bits organized instead of scattered. The NEX K2 Ultra shifts into everyday utility with a compact brushless drill/driver that delivers up to 30Nm of torque and 1250RPM, wrapped in a short, maneuverable body that’s easier to use in tight spaces than a traditional drill. Its dual‑screen interface shows torque, direction, and mode at a glance, and the TapSwitch electronic gear shifting makes it feel more modern than most compact drivers. With a 2500mAh lithium-ion battery and a full set of screwdriver and drill bits inside a versatile base, it’s a genuinely versatile tool for assembly, repairs, and light drilling. The C8 Nano rounds things out with a purpose‑built electric scissor system that handles cardboard, carpet, leather, and fabric far more comfortably than manual cutters. Its three‑speed motor (230RPM no load speed), quick‑swap blade mechanism, LED display, 2000mAh lithium-ion battery pack and built‑in work lights make it ideal for long cutting sessions or craft work where precision and ergonomics matter. Together, these three tools form a compact, well‑balanced kit that covers fine detail work, general DIY tasks, and material cutting with a level of refinement that feels consistent across the lineup.

 

 

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SPECIFICATIONS AND FEATURES

 

 

 

 

 

 

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PACKAGING AND CONTENTS

 

 

 

 

 

 

Fanttik uses black and yellow boxes for their products all of which have their logo at the front along with a product picture and the main features (at least in the case of the NEX K2 Ultra and F2 Pro).

 

 

The product specifications are printed at the rear along with contact information for Fanttik.

 

 

Packing in the case of the C8 Nano and the NEX K2 Ultra is very good with both devices placed inside pieces of foam (the F2 Pro just comes in its case).

 

 

All three tools come with rich bundles, the C8 Nano with an extra blade, metal plate, USB-C charging cable, storage bag, warning paper and its user manual, the NEX K2 Ultra with its 2-piece base, push-open bit storage compartment (includes 10 screwdriver bits, 5 wood drill bits and 5 metal drill bits), USB-C charging cable, storage bag, quick start guide and its user manual and the F2 Pro with its aluminum case (includes a magnetic rotating box with 55 accessories), accessory box, USB-C cable, paper showcasing all accessories and the user manual.

 

 

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THE C8 NANO

 

 

 

 

 

 

As with all three electric tools in this review the C8 Nano body is made out of plastic.

 

 

In order to use this tool, you need to press both the side button and trigger (safety).

 

 

Speed can be controlled from the rear end of the C8 Nano (3 speed modes).

 

 

The tool also has a LED torch at the front so you can better see what you cut.

 

 

The rear LCD screen allows the end user to monitor remaining battery life as seen above.

 

 

To replace the blade, you only need to unscrew the center piece with the bundled metal plate.

 

 

As expected, a USB-C charging port is located at the base of the C8 Nano.

 

 

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THE NEX K2 ULTRA

 

 

 

 

 

 

The NEX K2 Ultra features a two-piece base (lower made of plastic, top made of aluminum and plastic) which you can use to place the cordless drill on.

 

 

Just like the C8 Nano at the rear we find an LCD screen where you can see remaining battery life, RPM (drill mode), Nm (driver mode) and a button from where you can change modes (RPM/Nm can be changed by the rear as with the C8 Nano).

 

 

On the side we find yet another small display and a button next to it used to change direction.

 

 

The NEX K2 Ultra has a LED ring at the front.

 

 

Once again, the USB-C charging port is located at the base of the tool.

 

 

The front button/trigger is pressure sensitive (variable speed) as with several drills in the market.

 

 

Worth pointing out is that inside the lower base piece you’ll find 10 screwdriver bits, 5 wood drill bits and 5 metal drill bits (rather basic in quality however).

 

 

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THE F2 PRO

 

 

 

 

 

 

Almost the entire F2 Pro bundle is placed in a convenient metal case.

 

 

To release the F2 Pro rotary tool you just need to push it inwards.

 

 

The same more or less applies for the interior which is also how you get to access the dozens of rotary accessories.

 

 

Thanks to the touch button on the lower end of the F2 Pro you can also control its speed (indicated by the green LEDs just next to it).

 

 

To turn the tool on/off you just need to rotate its base as seen above.

 

 

Just like every other similar rotary tool I’ve seen the secure button is located at the front.

 

 

Just like with the other two electric tools the USB-C port is located at the rear (short clip showcasing all 3 cordless tools is available on TikTok and YouTube).

 

 

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CONCLUSION

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

    Despite targeting casual DIY users rather than professionals, all three Fanttik tools manage to deliver a genuinely solid value proposition. Their compact size and strong price/performance ratio make them easy picks for light home projects, while the overall build quality and battery life hold up well in everyday use. The color options (grey and red/pink depending on region) available for the C8 Nano and F2 Pro add a bit of personality too, something which is quite rare in this category. Their limitations are clear, though, none of them are built for heavy, prolonged workloads (always compared to professional tools like for example my DeWalt cordless drill and Dremel rotary tool), and the lack of hard storage or carrying cases for the C8 Nano and NEX K2 Ultra makes organization and transport less convenient than it should be (also extra cost to get one). Still, for hobbyists and home users, the balance of capability, portability, and cost lands in a very comfortable place (once again a short clip showcasing all 3 models is available in TikTok and YouTube).

    Right now, the C8 Nano cordless electric scissors retail for USD59.99 inside the USA (Amazon.com) and for 50.01Euros inside the EU (Amazon.de), the NEX K2 Ultra brushless cordless drill retails for USD95.99 inside the USA (Amazon.com) and for 83.35Euros inside the EU (Amazon.de) and finally the F2 Pro cordless rotary tool retails for USD89.99 inside the USA (Amazon.com) and for 89.99Euros inside the EU (Amazon.de). Overall, I can’t complain about cost since it’s more or less what we see by similar models from other companies. Bottom line if you’re a DIY person like I am and you’re not looking for professional-grade cordless electric tools these will get the job done and since they do deliver as advertised the Golden Award is in order.

PROS

- Compact Size
- Design
- Features
- Battery Life
- Available Colors (C8 Nano & F2 Pro)
- Price (For Some)

CONS

- Power (DIY Home Tools)
- Lack Of Storage Cases (C8 Nano & NEX K2 Ultra)

 

 

INTRODUCTION

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

    CPU air coolers remain the most reliable and maintenance‑free way to keep modern processors under control, especially as power limits continue to climb and boost algorithms push thermals harder than ever. A well‑designed tower cooler still offers an ideal balance of acoustic comfort, thermal consistency, and long‑term durability, without the pump noise, potential leaks, or lifespan concerns that sometimes accompany liquid AIOs. Within this space, high‑end dual‑tower and large single‑tower designs have become the go‑to choice for users running powerful CPUs or chasing near‑silent operation. These coolers rely on dense fin stacks, high‑pressure fans, and carefully engineered heatpipe layouts to deliver performance that rivals mid‑range AIOs while keeping noise levels impressively low. That’s exactly where be quiet!’s new Dark Rock 6 and Dark Rock Pro 6 enter the picture.

        We are the German premium brand manufacturer of quiet hardware components for gaming, workstations and desktop PCs. Since our foundation in 2001, we are proud to have more than 20 years of experience in the industry. Our goal from the very beginning has been to develop products of the highest quality that are not only quiet, but also extremely powerful. With a wide range of power supplies, PC cases, water and air coolers and fans, we have established ourselves as a leading manufacturer in this field.

    As successors to two of the most respected CPU air coolers on the market, the new Dark Rock 6 and Dark Rock Pro 6 aim to refine the formula with stronger thermal performance, updated fan technology, and the same signature stealth aesthetic. Both coolers follow be quiet!’s familiar formula of thick aluminum fin stacks, precision‑machined copper heatpipes, and tightly controlled fan acoustics, the scale however differs significantly between the two. The Dark Rock 6 features a TDP of 220W and uses six, 6mm thick copper heatpipes routed through a tall single‑tower fin array, with the fins spaced closely enough to favor static‑pressure‑optimized airflow. Cooling is handled by a 135mm Silent Wings PWM fan mounted on removable rails, making RAM clearance and installation easier. The fan tops out at 31.1dBA and features a Performance/Quiet switch, which adjusts the PWM curve. The Dark Rock Pro 6 on the other hand features a TDP of 300W and scales this up with seven 6mm thick heatpipes and a dual‑tower structure, giving it a much larger thermal mass and more surface area for sustained high‑load cooling. Airflow comes from a 135mm center fan and a 120mm front fan, both Silent Wings models with FDB bearings and high‑pressure blade geometry. Like the single‑tower model, the Dark Rock Pro 6 includes removable fan brackets and the same Performance/Quiet switch (located on the center fan module).

 

 

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SPECIFICATIONS AND FEATURES

 

 

 

 

 

 

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PACKAGING AND CONTENTS

 

 

 

 

 

 

be quiet! once again uses their all-black boxes the front of which (to be precise it's the top of the Dark Rock 6 box) is taken by a product picture, their logo and the model name.

 

 

The specifications table is on the right side (the Dark Rock 6 box also has two product pictures showcasing its main features).

 

 

A few words about be quiet! are printed on the left side.

 

 

At the rear of the Dark Rock Pro 6 box we find two product pictures used to showcase its main features while at the rear of the Dark Rock 6 box we just find its name and TDP (thermal design power).

 

 

Both coolers are placed between two thick pieces of cardboard.

 

 

Along with the Dark Rock 6 and Dark Rock Pro 6 be quiet! has bundled a Philips screwdriver, Thermal paste tube, backplate and all the pieces required to mount the coolers onto Intel LGA 1150/1151/1155/1200/1700/1851 and AMD AM4/AM5 motherboards.

 

 

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THE DARK ROCK 6 & DARK ROCK PRO 6

 

 

 

 

 

 

When placed side by side it's easy to see that the 162mm tall, 139mm wide and 102mm long Dark Rock 6 is dwarfed by the 169mm tall, 140mm wide and 147mm long Dark Rock Pro 6.

 

 

Since both models feature removable fans, they have fixed rail Systems on the sides.

 

 

The top of the Dark Rock 6 is magnetically attached to the heatsink while the top of the Dark Rock Pro 6 has the center 135mm attached to it.

 

 

Needless to say, the front fans are also removable (and height adjustable).

 

 

Both the front fan of the Dark Rock 6 and the center fan of the Dark Rock Pro 6 feature a performance/quiet switch (the front 120mm fan of the Dark Rock Pro 6 connects to the center one).

 

 

It may not be very easy to distinguish from the above picture but the Dark Rock Pro 6 comes with a total of 51 aluminum fins while the Dark Rock Pro 6 a total of 90 (45x2).

 

 

Both coolers feature 6mm thick all-copper heatpipes, difference is that the Dark Rock Pro 6 has one more.

 

 

When it comes to base both the Dark Rock 6 and Dark Rock Pro 6 have all-copper nickel-plated ones.

 

 

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INSTALLATION

 

 

 

 

 

Mounting the new CPU air coolers by be quiet! is very easy, first you will need to use the backplate (for Intel systems).

Next you will need to attach the spacers onto the backplate (almost the same if you use an AMD system with the stock backplate).

 

 

The brackets come next and here things change a bit since for the Dark Rock Pro 6 you will need to mount them up and down whereas for the Dark Rock 6 you will need to mount them left and right.

 

 

Here you can see the difference in size between both coolers (and that the Dark Rock Pro 6 is almost as large as the NH-D15 G2 cooler by Noctua).

 

 

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TEST BED

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

TESTING METHODOLOGY

    I always take things quite seriously when it comes to work so just like with the previous LGA1366 and LGA2011 databases every single CPU Cooler in the charts will be tested under the same exact conditions. Testing a CPU Cooler automatically means that you need to know where it stands against the immediate competition and to accomplish that I’ve spent both money and time through the years, something that I honestly plan to continue to do so in order to get the most accurate results for the end consumers who read these lines. Every CPU cooler in this database is tested with the bundled 140mm/120mm/92mm/80mm fans while working at both idle speed and 100% of their speeds for all the temperature tests. CPU Coolers that do not come bundled with a fan/s are measured using a Noctua fan (size dependent on the model) to test for the temperature tests but due to the lack of a stock fan dBA level tests are obviously skipped. Single (120/140mm) watercooling solutions are tested with the radiator mounted at the rear of our test rig while dual/triple/quad (240/260/280/360/420/480/560mm) solutions with the radiator mounted at the top. For the dBA tests every cooler in the database was measured both while on idle mode or with the fan controller in the minimum setting and while on extreme load or with the fan controller all the way to the highest possible setting (PWM fans do that on their own without our intervention). Every single test takes place in a temperature controlled room of 23 degrees Celsius Ambient Temp with the help of two AC units placed diagonally inside the room. The Noctua NT-H2 thermal paste is used with every CPU Cooler. Finally, it's very important to point out that just because a CPU Cooler is better than another when tested with a specific system that does not necessarily mean that the same performance differences will apply 100% for other CPU models and in other situations (such as different ambient temps and system configurations).

    To successfully record the load temperatures, we use the latest OCCT application for around 6-10 minutes to push the processor to its limits and after that is done and the temperatures are recorded, we wait for about 10-20 minutes for the CPU to cool down and record the idle temperatures. This is done to allow time for the thermal conductive material to achieve the optimal performance level. Same procedure is then repeated with the Passmark BurnIn Test as a failsafe just in case the OCCT results are wrong. This procedure is more time consuming than the usual peltier/thermometer tests but this way not only can readers get results based on real CPUs but those results can also be triple checked by using a variety of programs. Last but not least the temperatures were recorded using the latest versions of AIDA64, HWiNFO and HWMonitor while the noise level tests are performed using a high precision ExTech HD600 Decibel Meter placed about 10-15cm above the CPU Cooler. Still although the same testing procedure applies to all units do take into consideration that unlike the official numbers which are measured in special noise isolated labs with just the fans here, we also have both the rest of the cooler and the rest of the system (although all system fans are turned off when recording noise levels).

* As of November 2024, the Core Ultra 9 285K is used for CPU cooler tests.

 

 

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TEST RESULTS

 

 

 

 

 

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CONCLUSION

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

    Both the Dark Rock 6 and Dark Rock Pro 6 reinforce why be quiet! remains one of the most consistent names in high‑end air cooling. Their strong thermal performance, excellent build quality, and the addition of the Performance/Quiet switch make them easy to tune for either silent operation or sustained boost workloads. The removable fan brackets and the fully black, stealth‑matte finish also give them a clean, premium look that many builders will prefer over flashier designs. That said, the Dark Rock Pro 6’s sheer size will limit compatibility in tighter cases, and both coolers can get quite audible when pushed in Performance mode. And while the all‑black aesthetic is a plus for some, the lack of RGB lighting may be a deal‑breaker for users building around a more expressive or color‑coordinated setup. Still, if your priority is reliable, efficient, and quietly capable air cooling, both models deliver exactly what they promise.

    At the time of my review the Dark Rock 6 & Dark Rock Pro 6 CPU coolers by be quiet! retail for 81.63Euros/97.56Euros inside the EU (Amazon.de) and so they aren’t for everyone. Overall, both the Dark Rock 6 and Dark Rock Pro 6 CPU coolers by be quiet! may not be perfect but they do deliver as advertised and for that they deserve the Golden Award.

PROS

- Build Quality
- Stealth Design (Black Coating)
- Excellent Cooling Efficiency
- Fan Speed Switch (Quiet / Performance)
- Dual Fan Solution (Dark Rock Pro 6)
- Adjustable Height Front Fan
- Noise Levels (Quiet Mode)

CONS

- Price (For Some)
- Size (Dark Rock Pro 6)
- Lack Of RGB Lighting (For Some)
- Current Availability (USA)

 

 

INTRODUCTION

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

    As PC hardware continues to scale in complexity, the role of the power supply has expanded from a passive provider to an active guardian of system health. Clean rails, fast transient handling, and efficient conversion are now essential traits rather than luxuries. Builders looking for a PSU that can keep pace with today’s power‑hungry components will likely turn their attention to the Revolution III S 1000W by ENERMAX, a model crafted to meet these modern expectations.

   ENERMAX was founded in Taiwan in 1990 and is a world-renowned PC Power Supply manufacturer and maker of award-winning PC components such as chassis, coolers, fans, and peripherals, with recognition from consumers around the world. Our farsighted R&D capability is our key strength, and we stick to our spirit of “Technical Innovation” and “Quality First” to create products that unleash the full potential of the system for every PC enthusiast. For more information, please visit us at www.ENERMAX.com

    The Revolution III S line of power supply units currently includes only a 1000W output variant available in both black and white colors. This is an ATX 3.1 & PCIe 5.1 compliant and 80 PLUS Platinum certified (up to 92% efficiency) model that features a single 12V-2x6 power connector, four 6+2 pin PCIe power connectors, single +12V rail (83.3A) capable of delivering 99.9% of the units’ power output (999.6W) and has a total power output of no less than 1119W (peak should be up to 2240W for up to 100ms - once again however this is not something I can test). Other features and specifications include Full-Bridge & LLC Resonant Converter paired with synchronous rectification and DC‑to‑DC regulation (thus allowing the unit to sustain stable voltage output even under rapid load shifts), active PFC, smart semi-fanless mode for the 120mm fan (starts spinning after a specific load), and a full array of electrical protections including over-current (OCP), over-voltage (OVP), under-voltage (UVP), short-circuit (SCP), over-temperature (OTP), and over-power (OPP). Just like with their other premium Lines ENERMAX covers the Revolution III S 1000W with a very generous 13-year limited warranty.

 

 

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SPECIFICATIONS AND FEATURES

 

 

 

 

 

 

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PACKAGING AND CONTENTS

 

 

 

 

 

 

The Revolution III S is packed inside a brown and black box that has a drawing of the product at the front along with its output and main features.

 

 

The color selection is located on the left side of the box.

 

 

At the rear of the box ENERMAX has placed the features table, electrical table and the cables and connectors table.

 

 

Typically, the unit is placed between two pieces of foam.

 

 

Along with the Revolution III S 1000W and its power cord inside the box you'll find the modular cables, 4 cable ties, 4 mounting screws and the user manual.

 

 

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THE REVOLUTION III S 1000W EXTERIOR

 

 

 

 

 

 

All of the cables are individually braided, including the 12V-2X6 600W connector.

 

 

Just like many other compact PSUs currently the Revolution III S 1000W measures only 150mm in width, 140mm in length and 86mm in height.

 

 

The 120mm FDB fan sits beneath a grille with the company logo at its center.

 

 

Printed on both sides is the company logo, model name and output.

 

 

The electrical table is located on a sticker placed on the belly of the enclosure.

 

 

All 10 modular ports at the front of the unit are tagged.

 

 

Moving at the rear we just find the power port and the on/off switch.

 

 

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THE REVOLUTION III S 1000W INTERIOR

 

 

 

 

 

 

The 120mm fluid dynamic bearing fan is made by GLOBE FAN.

 

 

The OEM behind the Revolution III S 1000W is Shenzhen RSY (we keep seeing a lot platforms by them lately).

 

 

Primary capacitor is manufactured by the Japanese Rubycon and is rated for use up to 105 degrees Celsius.

 

 

Secondary capacitors are also manufactured by Rubycon and are also rated for use 105 degrees Celsius.

 

 

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TEST BED

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

TESTING METHODOLOGY

     Using a dedicated measurement instrument such as a Chroma or a SunMoon to test power supply units is without doubt the most ideal and accurate way (not to mention the fastest) to do that currently. However, it's certainly not the only way there is and so pretty much anyone can test a power supply unit just by using a test rig. Certainly, limitations do apply and so you can't really push a 1000W power supply to its limits if your system only uses 500W at peak loads and that's why over the years we saved certain hardware components for the purpose of building a dedicated PSU test rig. True it may not be as accurate as the above-mentioned solutions, but it comes really close and is in fact much closer to real world usage. So as always, we ran several games with maximum graphic options enabled at a resolution of 2560x1600 in order to stress every hardware component and increase the overall power demands of the system. The Passmark BurnIn Test was also used to overstress the components in an effort to provide the most accurate results possible. As a final test we also used the latest OCCT software and its dedicated PSU testing suite since it can really bring a power supply to its knees after inside a few minutes.

   Rail stability was checked/measured with the CPUID Hardware monitor and a Metex multimeter which also recorded the system load in idle and in load. As always try to remember that the power consumption numbers listed in the graph are the highest (Peak) ones recorded during the entire duration of the tests and not the average ones. Noise levels coming from the fan were recorded using the high precision HD600 ExTech Sound dBA Meter from the rear of the unit and at a range of no more than 5-10cm. Readings under load are recorded the exact moment we manually switch the fans of all graphics cards from full speed to almost zero, that way the fan of the power supply does not have enough time to slow its RPM and so by doing this we get very accurate noise level readings. Needless to say, in order to get 100% accurate readings, you need to have a noise isolated room for that exact purpose, something which is quite impossible unless you are working inside a real lab (some people use very small noise insulated boxes but due to their size both heat and noise exceed normal levels and so the results can't really be considered to be 100% accurate, nor realistic for that matter). Also do take into account that since all noise measurements take place from just 5-10cm away the final noise levels to reach your ears will be considerably less.

* After well over 10 years of testing PSUs the Intel Core i7-920 CPU of this rig failed and so we replaced it with a Xeon X5660 (we also swapped the GA-X58A-UD7 for the G1. Assassin).

 

 

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TEST RESULTS

 

 

 

 

 

 

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CONCLUSION

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

    The Enermax Revolution III S 1000W brings a few meaningful strengths to the table, starting with its 80 PLUS Platinum certification. The high efficiency rating helps reduce wasted energy and keeps thermal output under control, which is especially useful in systems that spend long hours under mixed workloads. Its rail stability is also generally very good, providing clean power during gaming, rendering, and everyday use. Add the full ATX 3.1 and PCIe 5.1 support, and the unit is well‑equipped for modern GPUs that demand fast transient response and native high‑power connectors. There are, however, a few areas where the platform shows its limits. Noise levels rise faster than expected once the fan curve reaches the upper end, making the PSU noticeably louder during full‑load stress testing or synthetic benchmarks. And while Shenzhen RSY isn’t considered a top‑tier OEM, it’s worth noting that they’ve been producing a growing number of platforms lately, showing clear signs of refinement and broader industry presence. Their designs still sit a step below the most established manufacturers, but the trajectory is upward rather than stagnant, which softens the concern for users who simply want a capable, modern unit rather than absolute flagship pedigree. Taken together, the Revolution III S 1000W by ENERMAX offers solid efficiency, modern standards, and generally stable performance, but its acoustic profile and mid‑tier platform heritage keep it from competing with the very best options in the high‑end PSU space.

    Retailing for around USD179 inside the USA and for 148.53Euros inside the EU (Amazon.de) the ENERMAX Revolution III S 1000W is priced just right. Overall the Revolution III S 1000W may not be the best model in the current lineup by ENERMAX but it delivers where it counts and for that it gets the Golden Award.

PROS

- Overall Quality (Japanese Capacitors)
- Very Good Rail Stability
- 80 PLUS Platinum Certified (Up To 92% Electrical Efficiency)
- Electrical Protections (OCP, OVP, UVP, SCP, OTP, OPP)
- 12V-2x6 Connector (600W)
- Smart Semi Fanless Mode
- Available In Black & White
- 13 Year Limited Warranty

CONS

- Noise Levels
- Current Availability (USA)
- Shenzhen RSY OEM (For Some)

 

 

INTRODUCTION

 

 

 

 

 

 

    In today’s RGB heavy setups, desktop speakers have become part of the overall visual identity rather than just an audio add‑on. The category has matured into compact near‑field systems that aim for cleaner mids, tighter bass, and a footprint that blends naturally into a desk layout. From there, RGB gaming speakers push the idea further, pairing synchronized lighting with a more energetic tuning, stronger low‑end, livelier upper mids, and the kind of plug‑and‑play USB or Bluetooth connectivity that suits hybrid work‑and‑play environments. It’s in this intersection of everyday clarity and gaming‑centric flair that the G2000 PRO by EDIFIER's HECATE Gaming brand positions itself, offering a compact 2.0 design that aims to look at home in a lit‑up setup while still sounding like a proper desktop speaker.

    HECATE, EDIFIER's professional gaming brand, was launched as "EDIFIER Gaming Product Line" in 2013 and operated as an independent brand in 2018. HECATE injects 25 years of EDIFIER's acoustic technology into gaming equipment, opening the door to the gaming world for gamers. Since its inception, HECATE has always maintained an almost obsessive pursuit of "performance redundancy", and has repeatedly subverted the industry's imagination with a very futuristic design style. We believe that every boundary between gaming and life has a reason to be reshaped!

    The HECATE Gaming G2000 PRO uses a 270° panoramic transparent acoustic enclosure that blends lighting and acoustics into a single visual element. At its core is a 3‑inch (≈76 mm) full‑range internal‑magnet driver paired with a digital amplifier, delivering 16W + 16W RMS and up to 32W peak output, with a rated 75Hz–20kHz frequency response for deeper bass and a wider soundstage than smaller 2.0 sets. The system supports virtual 7.1 surround sound through an onboard DSP chip and the HECATE Gaming Center software, enabling more precise sound localization and a cinematic sense of scale in games and movies. Lighting is handled by TempoFlow dynamic RGB technology, featuring 7 built‑in lighting modes and up to 20 LED strips with 100 full‑color beads per speaker, all customizable through software for synchronized, sound‑reactive effects. Connectivity is broad for a compact set, offering Bluetooth v5.4, USB‑C, USB‑A, and 3.5mm AUX, making it compatible with phones, tablets, PCs, TVs, Switch, PS4, and PS5.  Additional acoustic design touches include an inverted bass tube for more powerful low‑end, a 10° golden tilt angle to reduce reflections and aim sound directly at the listener, and dual neodymium iron‑boron magnets for improved clarity across the frequency range.

 

 

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SPECIFICATIONS AND FEATURES

 

 

 

 

 

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PACKAGING AND CONTENTS

 

 

 

 

 

A large product picture, company logo, main features and compatible devices are all printed at the front.

 

 

The available colors and the specifications and bundle contents in 5 languages are on the left side.

 

 

On the right side we find a product drawing used to showcase the various controls again in 5 languages.

 

 

Another product picture is located at the rear of the box and just over the main features.

 

 

Packaging is typical with the speakers wrapped inside plastic bags and placed between two pieces of cardboard.

 

 

Along with the G2000 PRO speakers and their power adapter and cord inside the box you'll also find a 3.5mm cable, USB-C to USB-A cable, USB-A to USB-C adapter, sticker, safety instructions, Bluetooth information paper and the quick start guide.

 

 

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THE G2000 PRO

 

 

 

 

 

The G2000 PRO measure 116mm in width, 160mm in height and 139mm in depth.

 

 

Both speakers feature 3‑inch (≈76 mm) full‑range drivers which deliver a frequency response of 75Hz-20kHz and up to 32W peak power each.

 

 

All available media buttons are located on top of the right speaker (left to right we have the on/off/input mode button, volume down/up buttons and the sound effects button (music, gaming, movie).

 

 

The transparent enclosures look great even when the speakers are turned off.

 

 

Turning the right speaker around we find a perforated area on top, bass reflex port on the lower end and the aux 3.5mm output/headphones port, USB-C port, DC in and the 3.5mm aux port.

 

 

Each speaker sits on two rubber feet.

 

 

The RGB LEDs not only look great but also stand out a lot more compared to other similar 2.0 speaker sets (short clip is available both on YouTube and TikTok).

 

 

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GAMING CENTER

 

 

 

 

 

The G2000 PRO are equipped with a USB 7.1 virtual surround soundcard that uses the Xear audio processing driver.

It's a old looking yet very simple to use software (since we've been seeing similar designs for like over a decade now) that lets you adjust the master volume, sound mode (speakers and headphones) and the RGB lighting.

 

 

You can of course also change the language of the software and check information such as the driver and firmware versions.

 

 

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CONCLUSION

 

 

 

 

 

 

    What defines the G2000 PRO by EDIFIER's HECATE gaming brand is how effortlessly it fits into a desk setup, small enough to disappear, yet lively enough with its RGB accents and USB‑powered clarity to feel like a genuine upgrade over basic 2.0 speakers. The generous input options make it adaptable, and the 7.1 USB virtual surround sound card gives it a cleaner, more confident presentation than its size suggests.  Its shortcomings, like the dated software and the inevitable vocal limitations compared to larger 2/3‑way models, are noticeable but not deal‑breaking. It’s a speaker that delivers charm and convenience in equal measure.

    With a current price tag set at USD169.99 inside the USA (Amazon.com) and for 166.72Euros inside the EU (Amazon.de) the G2000 PRO 2.0 gaming speakers by EDIFIER’s HECATE brand are priced just a tad higher than expected. At the end of the day however it all comes down to what you’re after and if that’s a pair of compact speakers that look great and perform better than expected (always for their size) then the EDIFIER HECATE G2000 PRO are certainly worth checking out.

 

PROS

- Build Quality
- Compact Size
- Overall Audio Reproduction
- RGB Lighting (7 modes)
- 3 Audio Modes (Music, Gaming & Movie)
- Connectivity (3.5mm Aux, 3.5mm Headphones Out, USB)
- Available Colors (Black, White & Pink)

CONS

- 1 Way Speakers
- Software Looks Outdated
- Price (For Some)

 

 

INTRODUCTION

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

    Over the past decade, 3D printing has evolved from a niche prototyping tool into a cornerstone of modern manufacturing. What began as slow, single‑material experimentation has matured into a field defined by precision, speed, and versatility. Today’s 3D printers can handle multiple filaments, complex geometries, and even color transitions with remarkable accuracy, a testament to how far additive technology has come. Standing at the forefront of this evolution is the brand new QIDI Max 4 Combo, a system built to merge industrial capability with desktop accessibility.

    Our story formed in 2014, QIDI Tech began with a small team of engineers with a big vision: we wanted to make 3D printing accessible to everyone. Crazy? A little bit. With our journey have consistently focused on more than just producing machinery; it's about enabling creators of all kinds to bring their ideas to life. Every day, we're doing more than just constructing printers. We are establishing an environment where seasoned designers and adventurous individuals can join forces, work together, realize ideas, and develop. QIDI Tech 3D printers are created to be intuitive and efficient, after all, delivering a hassle free printing process for all users from the beginning should be the top priority. Our extensive manufacturing plant and advanced research and development center embody our commitment to creativity, excellence, and teamwork.

    The Max 4 Combo by QIDI is built around a rigid CoreXY architecture designed for high‑speed stability, pairing FOC closed‑loop stepper motors with high‑hardness linear guides and 12mm steel shafts to maintain precision even at accelerations up to 30000mm/s² and print speeds reaching 800mm/s. Its 370°C high‑temperature hotend and 65°C actively heated chamber open the door to engineering materials like PA, PC, ASA, and carbon‑fiber composites, while the hands‑free load‑cell leveling system ensures consistent first‑layer accuracy across the large 390x390x340mm build volume. Cooling is handled through a multi‑stage system with PWM‑controlled fans and RPM feedback, and the Polar Cooler extruder cooler adds a dedicated high‑flow channel for long, heat‑intensive prints. With AI camera monitoring, input shaping, power‑loss recovery, and compatibility with the QIDI BOX for automated multi‑color printing, the Max 4 Combo positions itself as a high‑temp, high‑speed platform ready for demanding workflows.

 

 

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SPECIFICATIONS AND FEATURES

 

 

 

 

 

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PACKAGING AND CONTENTS

 

 

 

 

 

The Max 4 Combo arrived inside a very large box that just has the QIDI logo and the package measurements and size 57Kg.

 

 

Aside the handles we also see several warnings on both sides.

 

 

QIDI has used numerous pieces of foam, air bubble and compressed paper to secure the printer.

 

 

Almost the entire bundle is placed inside the printer.

 

 

 

Aside the Max 4 3D printer and the combo multi-color device inside the box you'll also find a 2-piece filament spool holder, 7mm spanner, power cable, RJ45 ethernet cable, USB 2.0 flash drive, scraper, two screwdrivers (flat head and Torq), replacement nozzle cutter, 5 Alen keys, 20g PLA rapido package, replacement fuse, pneumatic head, and the quick start guide in numerous languages.

 

 

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THE QIDI MAX 4 COMBO

 

 

 

 

 

The 49.5kg heavy MAX 4 is a large 3D printer measuring 612mm in height, 558mm in depth and 578mm in width.

 

 

The 5-inch 800x480p touch screen located on the top left of the printer also features a tilt mechanism allowing the end user to slightly change its angle.

 

 

Unlike with previous models the door handle now comes pre-attached.

 

 

A USB-A port is located on top of the printer.

 

 

Turning the Max 4 3D printer around we see an intake fan, filament spool holder mount, RJ45 port, signal cable ports, and the filament exit.

 

 

Taking a look inside we see the Dual-Sided textured PEI plate (390x390x340mm print size), LED activity bar, AI 1080p camera, filament residue cleaner, air-purifier compartment and the heater.

 

 

The direct drive extruder features a built-in run out sensor and a cold air tube intake (to cool the extruder and filament) and as you can all see is very easy to take apart.

 

 

QIDI bundles their box with its power cable, multi-color spool hub, five PTFE tubes, two signal cables, two PTFE tube buckles and the quick start guide.

 

 

The QIDI box measures 357mm in width, 300mm in depth and 234mm in height.

 

 

Inside the QIDI box has 4 compartments and a 65°C drying heater.

 

 

The Polar Cooler arrived in its own box secured by several pieces of foam.

 

 

Contained inside the box is the Polar Cooler, power adapter with power cord, air intake pipe, and the user manual.

 

 

In terms of size the Polar Cooler weighs 2.5kg and measures 234mm in length, 92mm in width and 214mm in height.

 

 

The Polar Cooler has a cooling fan on the left side, two tubes going out from the front and a signal cable that expands/retracts on top.

 

 

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ASSEMBLY

 

 

 

 

 

Even though the Max 4 Combo is a 3D printer bundle people will get for the multi-color box showing how the spool holder looks when mounted is a must.

 

 

To use the QIDI box you will need to attach the multi-color spool hub in the holder mount as seen above.

 

 

Then you will have to connect the spool hub to the QIDI box via 4 PTFE tubes as seen above.

 

 

This is how the Max 4 Combo looks with the PTFE and power cables attached (signal cables still not attached).

 

 

With the QIDI box and Polar Cooler attached to the Max 4 everything is ready to go.

 

 

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DISPLAY MENUS

 

 

 

 

 

Once you turn on the QIDI Max 4 Combo you will need to choose the language, region and follow instructions on how to remove the QIDI box and unlock the bed and print head.

 

 

Next stop is to allow the unit to perform a self-check and calibration.

 

 

Once the self-check and calibration procedure is complete, you'll get the above screen.

 

 

Turning on the QIDI box adds that graphic in the initial screen which typically shows the status of the printer.

 

 

From the 2nd tab you can move the extruder and the printing bed, adjust temperatures for the extruder, chamber and bed and adjust the cooling system.

 

 

Inside the filament tab you can select the brand and type of filament and temperatures and choose between the spooler and the QIDI box.

 

 

The settings tab includes the Wi-Fi, calibration, storage and general settings.

 

 

Finally, once you start printing you can choose what filament you want used.

 

 

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TESTING METHODOLOGY

 

 

 

 

 

 

    Once again to test this printer by QIDI I used their latest print software (QIDI Studio v2.5.2.5.0) by manually entering the same settings I’ve used to date with all FDM printers (quality of 0.16mm, 20% infill density and cubic infill pattern).

    Nothing else has changed of course so again I’ll be using 2 different sized models (downloaded from Cults3D / member Eastman) to record completion time at 100% speed. Second thing to test are noise levels and so once again I’ll be using my ExTech HD600 decibel meter placed roughly 30cm away to record the maximum noise coming from the 3D printer while printing. As for the 3rd test with the help of an UPS and two power meters I decided to also record not only the lowest and highest but also the average instant power consumption of the 3D printer in my hands.

 

 

   I was a bit surprised to see that the Max 4 Combo produced the smoothest 3D prints I’ve encountered, at least to date and with the same settings across all printers (even prior to using the Polar Cooler).

 

 

Just like with the K2 Pro and other multi-color printers as you can see from the above picture, filament waste is still a thing also with the Max 4 Combo. I did get slightly less waste when printing the same two models as with other printers but hardly worth mentioning (still like 9 times more than the filament required to print them).

 

 

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TEST RESULTS

 

 

 

 

 

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CONCLUSION

 

 

 

 

 

 

    The QIDI MAX 4 COMBO lands as a genuinely capable high‑speed, high‑volume machine that delivers on its core promises. Its strengths are easy to appreciate, fast and smooth motion, consistently clean print surface quality, a large 390x390x340mm build area, and the practical benefits of the Polar Cooler, which keeps extrusion stable during long or high‑temperature jobs. Add the multi‑color capability via the QIDI box (although filament waste when printing multi-color models is still a thing) and the actively heated enclosure, and the Max 4 Combo becomes a flexible platform that handles everything from PLA to engineering‑grade materials with confidence. Still, it isn’t without friction points. Software bugs in relation to the slicer and firmware may occasionally interrupt an otherwise polished workflow (also the reason as to why I couldn’t use a timelapse for this review), the bottom handles aren’t the most ergonomic for moving a machine of this size and weight, and the need for separate power connections for both the box unit and the Polar Cooler adds a bit of cable clutter. Taken together, the Max 4 Combo stands out as a fast, spacious, and well‑engineered printer whose minor quirks are outweighed by its performance and versatility.

    Right now, the Max 4 Combo by QIDI retails for USD1199 inside the USA (us.qidi3d.com – plus a 5% discount when you subscribe to their newsletter) and for 1199Euros inside the EU (eu.qidi3d.com – 5% discount also available) and so it’s priced more or less the same as its direct competition (keep in mind that the Polar Cooler is sold extra for USD179.10/179.10Euros). Cost aside whether it’s speed, print quality, print size, enclosure features and multi-color prints the QIDI Max 4 Combo delivers as advertised and for that it gets the Golden Award.

PROS

- Good Build Quality
- Very Fast (Up To 800ms Speed / 30000ms Acceleration)
- Box Addon (4 Filaments Per Box / Up To 16 Filaments)
- Print Quality (Smoothest Output To Date)
- Large Heated & Flexible Dual Sided PEI Print Plate (390x390x340mm)
- Temperature Controlled Chamber (65°C)
- Polar Cooler Addon (Extra)
- High Speed Dual Gear Direct Drive Extruder
- Automatic Leveling
- 1080P AI Camera
- 5” Inch HD Color Touch Screen Display
- Air Purifier
- RFID Sensor
- 2.4GHz/5GHz WiFi, RJ45 Ethernet & USB Port

CONS

- Nozzle Cleaning Noise (For Some)
- Number Of Tubes & Wires (For Some)
- Software Glitches (Currently)
- Size & Weight (For Some)

 

 

INTRODUCTION

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

    Smart TVs have become the default living‑room hub, not because they’re flashy (well, some are), but because they quietly centralize everything from streaming and casting to local playback and even light gaming. The real shift is that a TV is no longer just a panel, it’s an operating system with an opinion. Some platforms lean into aggressive recommendations, others into simplicity, others into codec support. That’s why the hardware underneath matters more than ever, and why the jump from basic LED sets to QLED panels has become the sweet spot for people who want better picture quality without paying OLED prices. QLED displays sit in that middle ground, quantum‑dot layers for richer color volume, higher peak brightness for daylight viewing, and generally better uniformity than budget LCDs. They’re not chasing the perfect black of OLED, they’re chasing consistency, punch, and longevity. For most households, that’s exactly the trade‑off that makes sense. And when you pair QLED hardware with a lightweight OS instead of a bloated one, you get a device that feels responsive instead of sluggish after a year. Dune HD recently released their very own TV line with the 43-inch Q43R1 model arriving in the lab a couple of months ago.

    Dune HD is recognized as a global leader in high-performance digital media players. We received more awards than any other company in the category for delivering the very best in networked digital media devices. Dune HD products support the widest number of digital media formats in use today.

    The Dune HD Whale TV Q43R1 is built around a 43‑inch 4K QLED VA panel that uses quantum dots to push richer color and stronger contrast (4000:1) than standard LCD sets, with typical and peak brightness levels set at 300 and 320 nits respectively. It supports HDR10, HDR10+ and HLG, running on a 60 Hz panel with ALLM to keep gaming input responsive. Audio comes from two 10W speakers with Dolby Atmos decoding, and as for connectivity the Q43R1 is equipped with eARC, SPDIF, 3.5mm jack, dual‑band Wi‑Fi 2x2 (b/g/n/ac), Bluetooth v5.0, RJ45 Ethernet, 2xHDMI 2.0 ports, 2xUSB 2.0, and a full DVB‑T/T2/S/S2/C tuner with PVR and TimeShift. Inside, a quad‑core ARM A55, Mali‑G31 MP2 GPU, 2GB RAM, and 16GB storage keep the system responsive. The real separation point is the software stack, a 3‑layer system built around Android 13, Whale OS, and the full Dune HD media center, which effectively turns the TV into a dedicated playback appliance. This isn’t the usual “supports MP4 and MKV” checkbox, the Dune HD media center handles an unusually broad range of video containers (MKV, TS, PS, M2TS, VOB, AVI, MOV, MP4, ISO, VIDEO_TS, BDMV), audio formats from everyday MP3/AAC to enthusiast‑grade FLAC, ALAC, APE, WavPack, and even SACD ISO/DSD stereo, plus playlist formats like M3U and PLS. Subtitle support is equally deep, covering SRT, SUB, SSA/ASS, VobSub, PGS, and online subtitle fetching when needed. On the codec side, it decodes AV1, H.264, H.265, VP9 Profile 2, AVS2, VC‑1, MPEG‑4, MPEG‑2, and more with full passthrough for Dolby Atmos, TrueHD, DTS‑HD MA, DTS:X, depending on the output path (SPDIF, ARC, or eARC). The media center also brings the familiar Dune features, SMB/NFS network browsing, ISO playback with full menus, advanced subtitle controls, and the “My Collection” system that automatically organizes local libraries into a proper catalog. So, let's see just how good the 1st step in the TV arena by Dune HD really is.

 

 

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SPECIFICATIONS AND FEATURES

 

 

 

 

 

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PACKAGING AND CONTENTS

 

 

 

 

 

Typically, the Q43R1 is shipped inside a long box that has a product picture on both sides along with the company logo, size, panel type, main features and media player specifications.

 

 

The product specifications and bundle contents are printed on the left side.

 

 

Along with the Q43R1 inside the box Dune HD has also placed 2 plastic feet, plastic bag with the screws required to mount the feet, remote control and the quick start guide.

 

 

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THE Q43R1

 

 

 

 

 

Without the legs mounted the 6.2Kg heavy Q43R1 measures 957mm in length, 558mm in height and 68mm in thickness.

 

 

Even though the entire enclosure is made by plastic the lower bezel resembles brushed aluminum.

 

 

There are 4 mounting locations at the base of the TV (only the far right and far left are for the legs) along with the power LED.

 

 

With the legs attached the TV measures 957mm in length, 616mm in height and 214mm in thickness.

 

 

Dune HD has equipped the Q43R1 with standard legs which are still better than what I've seen by some of the competition lately.

 

 

The top and side bezels are roughly 1.5mm in thickness.

 

 

Turning the TV around we see that it has VESA 200 mounts.

 

 

The power button is placed on the rear right of the TV.

 

 

We also find all available ports here, the RJ45 LAN, optical SPDIF, AV in RCA, satellite and Antenna ones on the lower end and 3 HDMI ports (1xeARC), 2 USB 2.0 ports, 3.5mm headphone port and what seems like an extra card slot on the left side.

 

 

The bundled remote looks nice and has almost every button you’d need from both a TV and a media player.

 

 

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MENUS

 

 

 

 

 

The main tab is more or less what we see with most smart TVs nowadays and so from here you can switch to WhaleTV, Netflix, YouTube, Prime Video, Disney and of course to the Dune HD media center.

 

 

If you press the settings button on the remote control, you'll get a left side quick choice panel (the 1st time I turned the TV on the OS really took its time to load and change pages/tabs).

 

 

Once you click on all settings, you'll see the entire tab which again doesn't have that many things to play around with.

 

 

The Dune HD Media Center is a cut down version compared to what we've seen with the Dune HD media players through the years. Still, it doesn't need to have much, this is a budget-friendly option at the end of the day.

 

 

 

For any of you wondering since the TCL 43C655 is the closest TV to the Q43R1 (both 43-inch models and both QLED models - the TCL however belongs to a higher tier) above I have a picture of both TVs reproducing a very high bitrate MKV media file. The Q43R1 clearly produces better contrast and sharpness (top) whereas the TCL produces a brighter and smoother picture (bottom).

 

 

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TESTING METHODOLOGY

 

 

 

 

 

    Each TV goes through a repeatable measurement cycle designed to capture both calibrated image performance and real‑world energy behavior. I begin with the SpyderPro by Datacolor, using it to establish a neutral baseline and then measure gamut coverage, peak and sustained brightness, and color accuracy across SDR and HDR modes under controlled lighting (TVs are connected to a laptop via HDMI v2.1). I also test screen uniformity across multiple brightness levels to identify luminance variance, color tinting, and edge‑to‑center deviations.

    Once the panel is dialed in, I shift to power analysis by connecting the TV is to the AVM FRITZ!Smart Energy 210, which logs average consumption, peak draw, and standby behavior during mixed‑content playback, stress tests, and long‑form viewing. To keep these readings clean, the entire setup runs through an APC BR1500G‑GR Back‑UPS Pro, ensuring stable voltage and eliminating grid fluctuations that could skew results. This workflow produces a consistent, comparable dataset across panels, letting me evaluate each TV’s actual performance rather than the quirks of the room or the power line.

 

 

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TEST RESULTS - GAMUT / BRIGHTNESS

 

 

 

 

 

  

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TEST RESULTS – SCREEN UNIFORMITY / RATING / POWER CONSUMPTION

 

 

 

 

 

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CONCLUSION

 

 

 

 

 

 

    For a somewhat compact, low‑cost QLED, the Q43R1 by Dune HD delivers more than expected. The QLED VA panel delivers genuinely good picture quality for the price something which is backed by my SpyderPro measurements (stable color uniformity, respectable luminance consistency, and gamut coverage that sits comfortably in the “better than expected” bracket for a low cost QLED – take my Samsung QN65S95D results in the brightness chart with a grain of salt, still working on getting the maximum number reported by others). Pair that with the Dune HD media center, which remains one of the most capable local‑playback ecosystems available on any TV, and you get a device that handles formats and bitrates most mainstream platforms won’t even attempt. The value proposition is strong but not flawless. The absence of USB 3.0 port means that extremely high‑bitrate files can occasionally stutter (mostly during initial load), not because the decoder struggles, but because the port simply can’t feed data fast enough. The built‑in speakers are serviceable but flat, the remote’s directional pad has a tendency to mis‑register center presses as arrow inputs, and availability especially in the USA is limited enough that finding one can feel like a small quest. Still, if you can source it, the Dune HD Q43R1 offers a combination of picture quality, codec support, and price that’s hard to match.

    Again, availability is the most important drawback of the Q43R1 by Dune HD since your best bet currently if you’re living in the USA is their official website (dune-hd.com – which has zero availability at this time) and if you’re living in the EU, their local online store (dune-shop.eu – with a price tag currently set at 299Euros). Honestly, I am somewhat conflicted when it comes to the Q43R1. On one hand Dune HD could had released something really unique (although I guess that at 43-inches it wouldn’t make much sense for that) but on the other hand it’s an affordable model that performs well and comes ready with their signature media center. Yes, it’s far from perfect but due to its overall performance I do suggest checking it out, it might just be what you’ve been looking for.

 

PROS

- Picture Quality
- Android, Whale OS & Dune HD Media Center
- Streaming Service Support
- Audio & Video Format Support
- Codec Support
- Low Power Consumption
- Price (For Some)

CONS

- Current Availability
- No USB 3.0 Port
- Audio Quality (Speakers)

 

 

INTRODUCTION

 

 

 

 

 

 

    In the upper tier of personal audio, headphones and earphones stop being accessories and start becoming tools, the kind that reveal the texture of a bow on a string, the breath behind a vocal line, or the subtle decay of a cymbal. Hi-Res designs especially are clearly built for listeners who want intimacy without coloration, scale without exaggeration, and detail without fatigue. Materials also matter and when it comes to the best models out there, they are chosen for their acoustic honesty, not their marketing appeal. The best designs aim to disappear, leaving only the recording and the listener in a direct, unfiltered exchange. The new AC55 Reference by aune fits neatly into that philosophy, delivering a clean, restrained signature that prioritizes accuracy.

    In 2004, shared passion and a common pursuit brought together a group of seasoned audio enthusiasts with profound expertise in audio engineering. Over two decades, we've been dedicated to creating high-quality audio products including DACs, digital transports, players, amps, clocks, speakers, and headphones. The logo of aune was inspired by the concept of Yin-Yang - the Chinese philosophy of balance. The rounded design of the letters conveys a message of peace and gentleness. The openings on four sides indicate inclusiveness.

    Aune’s AC55 is built around a reference‑class acoustic architecture that pushes the clip‑on format far beyond its usual limits. At its core is a 40mm W‑shaped bio‑fiber composite diaphragm, offering roughly 70% more effective vibrating surface than typical clip‑on drivers, a design that increases rigidity and improves treble precision while preserving natural vocal and instrumental texture. This diaphragm is paired with an ultra‑elastic long‑excursion surround, engineered to allow unusually large driver movement for an open clip‑on, enabling deep, controlled bass that reaches into sub‑bass territory and competes with full‑size over‑ear headphones in extension and authority. This configuration gives the AC55 a frequency response of 15Hz-40kHz, 30Ohm impedance, 112dB sensitivity and a THD of under 0.3% at 1 kHz. The AC55’s fully open‑back clip‑on design contributes to a wide, transparent soundstage with natural spatial dispersion, particularly effective for orchestral and cinematic material where depth and layering matter. Comfort is handled through a semi‑memory aluminum ear hook, designed to flex and conform to the ear while distributing pressure evenly for long listening sessions without fatigue. Finally signal integrity is supported by a high‑quality oxygen‑free copper cable with Litz braiding and a modular plug system, allowing quick swaps between 3.5mm single‑ended and 4.4mm balanced outputs for compatibility across portable players, dongles, and desktop gear.

 

 

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SPECIFICATIONS AND FEATURES

 

 

 

 

 

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PACKAGING AND CONTENTS

 

 

 

 

The AC55 reference arrived inside a small white box that has a product picture at the front, the company logo and the Hi-Res Audio certification.

 

 

At the rear we find both the product specifications and contact information for aune in 2 languages.

 

 

As you can all see the AC55 are placed inside a piece of foam which should be more than sufficient for protection during shipping.

 

 

Inside the box aune has placed the AC55 with its high-purity oxygen-free Litz braided cable, 4.4mm balanced plug (already fitted onto the cable), 3.5mm single-ended plug, shirt clip, storage/carrying pouch and the user manual.

 

 

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THE AC55 REFERENCE

 

 

 

 

Each of the two earphones weighs just 35g and as for material we see rubber, plastic and aluminum.

 

 

These earphones measure 53mm in length, 60mm in height and 16mm in thickness so not exactly small.

 

 

The earpad is as soft as the ones we used to have with old over the ear headphones so it’s quite comfortable.

 

 

Aune has used a semi-memory alloy for the ear hooks which also thanks to the rubber cover works well.

 

 

Also worth noting are the left and right markings on both ends of the ear hooks.

 

 

Being able to change the cable of your earphones is always welcome and that’s exactly the route aune chose (as expected really).

 

 

The high‑quality oxygen‑free copper cable with Litz braiding looks and feels great.

 

 

Both the modular plug system and the 3.5mm single‑ended and 4.4mm balanced plugs are gold plated.

 

 

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CONCLUSION

 

 

 

 

    After spending almost 2 weeks with the aune AC55 (which I paired with the FiiO R7, R9, Μ15 and M23 music players, as with past reviews) I have mostly good things to say about it. The 40mm open‑back driver gives it a scale and openness that feel almost out of place in a clip‑on format, with a wide, tall stage, smooth mids, and bass presence that punches far above what its frame suggests. Its warmish, musical tilt makes long sessions effortless, and the modular OFC cable reinforces the sense that this is a compact product built with serious intent. Build quality feels deliberate and durable, volume headroom gives it real authority even from modest sources and as for comfort the flexible ear hooks and soft earpads make long listening sessions feel effortless. Still the AC55 also carries the inherent trade‑offs of its design, isolation is essentially nonexistent, size and weight distribution can feel unusual at first and bass response depends heavily on getting the fit just right. These trade‑offs don’t undermine the experience, but they do define it, the AC55 by aune excels when you want openness, clarity, and comfort, and it’s less suited to environments where isolation or compactness matter.

    Priced at just USD199 inside the USA (Amazon.com) and for 239Euros inside the EU (aune-store.com) the AC55 Reference by aune are priced very well, always for what they deliver. Yes, their design belongs to a different approach which may not be for everyone but because of their surprisingly good audio accuracy, design, build quality, good comfort and high-volume levels they clearly deserve the Golden Award.

PROS

- Build Quality
- Accurate Audio Reproduction
- Volume & Bass Levels
- Design (For Some)
- Comfortable
- Detachable Cable & Plugs
- High Quality Oxygen Free Copper Cable
- 3.5mm Single Ended & 4.4mm Balanced Plugs
- Price (For Some)

CONS

- Lack Of Isolation
- Size & Weight (For Some)
- Good Fit Required For Optimal Bass

 

 

INTRODUCTION

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

    The laptop landscape has matured into clear categories, ultra-portable ones optimized for mobility, creator machines tuned for color accuracy and rendering, and gaming ones engineered for raw throughput. The latter have become showcases for cutting‑edge silicon, advanced cooling solutions, and high‑refresh displays that rival desktop setups. As AI assisted workloads begin to influence hardware design, gaming laptops are evolving again, this time toward smarter performance management and more efficient resource allocation. Acer’s Predator Helios Neo 16S AI enters this environment with a configuration built around next‑gen components and AI‑driven tuning.

    Founded in 1976, Acer is one of the world's top technology companies with a presence in more than 160 countries. The company continues to evolve by embracing innovation across its offerings, which include computers and displays, while branching out to new businesses. Acer is also committed to sustainable growth, exploring new opportunities that align with its environmental and social responsibilities. The Acer Group employs nearly 12,000 employees that contribute to the research, design, marketing, sales and support of products, solutions, and services that break barriers between people and technology. Visit www.acer.com for more information.

    Acer’s Predator Helios Neo 16S AI lineup spans Intel’s Core Ultra Series 2-3 processors, starting with Ultra 7 models and scaling up to the flagship Ultra 9 386H, paired with NVIDIA GPUs ranging from the GeForce RTX 4060 all the way to the GeForce RTX 5070 Ti and RTX 5080. It’s a broad stack that covers everything from mid‑range gaming to near‑flagship performance. The configuration under review sits just below the top tier and is equipped with the Intel Core Ultra 9 275HX, NVIDIA GeForce RTX 5070 8GB, 32GB of DDR5‑6400, 2TB PCIe Gen4 NVMe SSD, 4-zone RGB backlit keyboard, HDMI v2.1 output, 76Wh Lithium-Ion battery, MicroSD card reader, 5G RJ45 Ethernet port and Killer Wi-Fi 6E 1675i with Bluetooth v5.4. The configuration is rounded out by a 16‑inch 2560x1600p OLED display delivering HDR 500 class contrast, deep blacks, and pixel‑level lighting control, paired with a 240Hz refresh rate, 0.2ms class response times and NVIDIA G-SYNC thus giving fast‑paced games exceptional motion clarity. The 16:10 aspect ratio provides more vertical workspace, and the WQXGA resolution keeps text sharp and visuals crisp without pushing the GPU into unnecessary overhead. It’s a balanced, upper‑tier spec laptop model that showcases the platform’s strengths without stepping into the extreme configurations.

 

 

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SPECIFICATIONS AND FEATURES

 

 

 

 

 

 

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PACKAGING AND CONTENTS

 

 

 

 

 

 

Acer uses a box from recyclable materials which at its front has the Predator logo.

 

 

The product specifications, serial number and barcode are all printed on a sticker located on the left side.

 

 

At the rear we find several certifications, lithium battery warning label and the Predator logo.

 

 

The laptop is wrapped inside a synthetic cover and placed between two thick pieces of cardboard (probably also from recycled materials).

 

 

Contained inside the box are the Predator Helios Neo 16S AI laptop with its power adapter and cord, two warranty information papers, regulatory information paper, contact information paper, Planet9 card and the setup guide.

 

 

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THE HELIOS NEO 16S AI

 

 

 

 

 

 

Just like most modern gaming laptops the Helios Neo 16S AI is a compact model that weighs just 2.3Kg.

 

 

In terms of design, it may not be quite as exciting as the Lenovo Legion Pro 7 model but it looks nice.

 

 

Worth pointing out is that the exact same model is also available with a 16" IPS screen instead of this OLED one.

 

 

There's also a webcam (1920x1080@60fps) complete with an integrated IR camera and its own microphone on top of the screen.

 

 

The touchpad is large enough so no problems here (although I prefer using a mouse).

 

 

Two activity LEDs, two USB-A 3.2 ports and three fan exhausts are located on the right side of the chassis.

 

 

A 3.5mm headphone port, microSD card reader, RJ45 5GbE port and three more fan exhausts are on the left side.

 

 

Moving at the rear we find 6 more fan exhausts, DC in, HDMI v2.1 out, and two USB-C ports.

 

 

The power supply supports up to 230W and so peak electrical consumption should be considerably lower.

 

 

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TEST BED

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

TESTING METHODOLOGY

    To ensure consistency and reproducibility across all laptop evaluations, each will undergo a structured, multi‑stage testing process. Performance is assessed using a diverse suite of industry‑standard benchmarks including 3DMark (Speed Way, Steel Nomad, CPU Profile), UL Procyon (AI Computer Vision 2.0, AI Image Generation, AI Text Generation, Office Productivity – laptops with VRAM under 8GB are unable to complete all tests -, Battery Life – maximum screen brightness, high performance power plan), Cinebench 2026, PassMark Performance Test 11, Geekbench AI (non-NPU laptops can’t complete all tests), Geekbench 6, and Cyberpunk 2077: Phantom Liberty (1080p & native resolution - if applicable - ultra graphics, with and without RT enabled).

    All display testing begins with a full calibration process using the Datacolor Spyder Pro. This ensures that subsequent measurements like gamut coverage, brightness levels, and overall panel accuracy are taken from a standardized baseline. Acoustic output under load is captured using the ExTech HD600 sound meter, external thermal behavior both in idle and sustained load is documented with thermal imaging systems from FossiBot and as for power consumption it's monitored through an AVM FRITZ!DECT 210 smart plug paired with an APC BR1600SI UPS, enabling precise idle and load measurements.

 

 

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TEST RESULTS - 3D MARK / PROCYON

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

---

 

TEST RESULTS - GEEKBENCH 6 / GEEKBENCH AI

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

---

 

TEST RESULTS - CINEBENCH 2026 / PERFORMANCE TEST

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

---

 

TEST RESULTS - CYBERPUNK 2077: PHANTOM LIBERTY

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

---

 

TEST RESULTS - POWER CONSUMPTION / BATTERY LIFE / NOISE LEVELS

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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TEST RESULTS - THERMALS

 

 

 

 

 

 

Unlike past gaming laptops by Acer the Helios Neo 16S AI features a significant upgrade when it comes to its cooling system. Thanks to thermal imaging we can see that the Helios Neo 16S AI has a total of 3 blower fans that work well, 1 on each side and 1 at the rear (so it comes with a quite capable cooling system).

 

 

---

CONCLUSION

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

    Looking at the Predator Helios Neo 16S AI as a whole, it’s clear that Acer has built a laptop with a strong foundation. The chassis size feels appropriate for the hardware inside, the 16-inch 240Hz OLED display adds real visual depth, and the cooling system keeps the Ultra 9 + RTX 5070 combination performing reliably under load (with minimal power consumption). It’s a machine that handles gaming, productivity, and multitasking with confidence. But there are caveats worth noting. The rear‑mounted connectors aren’t ideal for everyday convenience while ray‑traced gaming pushes the GPU harder than expected, unless DLSS is involved. The display testing situation also deserves mention. While calibration was possible by manually selecting the panel type, the SpyderUtility’s display analysis module failed to detect that this was an OLED panel, meaning I couldn't properly test it. This isn’t the first time this has happened, the same exact issue occurred with the Lenovo Legion Pro 7 I reviewed previously, but unlike that case where a BIOS update resolved the detection problem here, even after updating to the latest BIOS, the OLED panel still wasn’t recognized. Add to that Acer’s confusing decision to mix IPS and OLED under the same model name, and buyers will need to pay close attention to the exact SKU. Even with these quirks however, this configuration stands out as a capable, well‑balanced machine with a genuinely impressive display.

    Currently the Acer Predator Helios Neo 16S AI model I reviewed today (Intel Core Ultra 9 275HX, 2TB M.2 Gen4 SSD, 32GB DDR5 RAM, GeForce RTX 5070, 16” OLED) retails for around 2100Euros inside the EU (was unable to locate the exact same model specs in the USA) and so it’s priced more or less properly for one such gaming model. At the end of the day this Predator Helios Neo 16S AI gaming laptop may not be the top model by Acer (far from it) but it does deliver very good overall performance along with one of the best OLED screens I’ve seen used on a laptop so the Golden Award is obviously in order.

PROS

- Build Quality
- Very Good Performance
- 240Hz OLED Display
- Cooling Efficiency
- Size / Weight
- Connectivity (TB4/2xUSBC/3xUSBA/HDMI v2.1/5G LAN/WiFi6E/Bluetooth v5.4)
- 1080p Webcam
- Overall Power Consumption
- RGB Lighting

PROS

- Model Available With IPS & OLED Screen
- Raytrace Gaming Performance (1600p)
- USA Availability

 

 

INTRODUCTION

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

    Across the spectrum of gaming mice, whether wired for absolute stability or wireless for pure freedom, the conversation has shifted toward precision, comfort, and reliability under pressure. Wired models still hold an edge in raw consistency, no battery to manage, no signal interference, and a connection that competitive players trust for uninterrupted responsiveness. Their drawback, of course, is the cable itself, drag, desk clutter, and the subtle resistance that even the best paracord‑style cords can’t fully eliminate. Wireless mice counter with unmatched mobility and cleaner setups, and modern low‑latency protocols have narrowed the performance gap to the point where most players won’t feel a difference. Yet they introduce their own considerations, battery life, potential signal congestion, and slightly higher weight depending on the design. It’s within this evolving balance of trade‑offs and engineering refinements that the SteelSeries Aerox 3 Wireless Gen 2 steps in, aiming to deliver the freedom of wireless play without compromising the precision gamers expect.

        SteelSeries is the original esports brand that fuses gaming & culture, leading the way in defining a gaming lifestyle, and we have the power to help gamers through our brand, our vision, and our products. The role that gaming plays in moving culture forward is essential, and our worldwide brand creates industry-defining gaming and lifestyle peripherals with a focus on premium quality, innovation, and functionality. SteelSeries is obsessed with helping make a difference by enhancing performance through first-to-market innovations and technologies that empower gamers and fans to push boundaries. Founded in 2001, SteelSeries was the pioneering supporter of esports and competitive gaming tournaments and continues to connect gamers and foster a sense of community and purpose. The SteelSeries family of professional and gaming enthusiasts, entertainers, and athletes is the driving force behind the company and helps influence the design, craftsmanship, and engineering in every piece of gear we create, as well as the brand’s software ecosystem (SteelSeries GG, Moments video clip service, and the Sonar Audio Software Suite). The SteelSeries family of brands includes KontrolFreek, the industry leader in high-performance controller accessories, and Nahimic, the leader in 3D sound solutions for gaming. In 2022, SteelSeries joined the GN family, a global leader in innovative and intelligent audio and video communications solutions sold in approximately 100 countries around the globe.

    The Aerox 3 Wireless Gen 2 is currently available in 3 colors (shadow, ghost and magenta haze) and takes the familiar ultralight formula and pushes it further, pairing its 68g airy frame with meaningful hardware improvements across tracking, switches, and battery life. At its core is the TrueMove 26K optical sensor, offering true 1‑to‑1 tracking with up to 26000CPI, 400IPS speed, and 40G acceleration, giving it the precision needed for both fast flicks and controlled micro‑aiming. Over its Quantum 4K Wireless dongle, it can push up to a 4000Hz polling rate (0.25 ms), quadrupling the update rate of its wired USB‑C polling rate which is set at 1000Hz for those who prefer a tethered setup.  The upgraded next‑gen primary mechanical switches are rated for 80 million clicks, delivering a sharper, more consistent actuation profile. Wireless performance runs through 2.4GHz low‑latency for competitive play and Bluetooth v5.0 for general use, backed by a battery that reaches up to 200 hours on Bluetooth or around 120 hours on 2.4GHz (35 hours with 4K polling), depending on lighting. The mouse also features AquaBarrier IP54 protection, shielding its internals from dust and moisture, while the 100% PTFE feet ensure a smoother glide across pads. Add USB‑C fast charging, a refined internal structure for rigidity, and three RGB zones controlled through SteelSeries GG, and the Aerox 3 Wireless Gen 2 stands as a lightweight mouse with full‑scale, competitive‑grade specifications.

 

 

---

 

SPECIFICATIONS AND FEATURES

 

 

 

 

 

---

PACKAGING AND CONTENTS

 

 

 

 

 

Typically, the box has a large product picture at the front, the main product features and the company logo.

 

 

Both the product specifications and the country of design are printed on the left side.

 

 

The three main product features are showcased at the rear with 3 pictures and a description in 3 languages.

 

 

Packaging is good with the mouse sitting on a formed piece of plastic.

 

 

Along with the Aerox 3 Wireless Gen 2 gaming mouse inside the box you'll also find a 1.8-meter-long USB-C to USB-A cable, USB-C adapter, 2.4GHz dongle, and the product information guide.

 

 

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THE AEROX 3 WIRELESS GEN 2

 

 

 

 

 

The 68g heavy Aerox 3 Wireless Gen 2 is 120.55mm in length, 57.91mm in width and 21.53mm in height.

 

 

As usual on the left side we find two programmable buttons.

 

 

Just with the previous Aerox 3 Wireless and other lightweight gaming mice today the rear is perforated.

 

 

A DPI/mode selection button is placed on top (also programmable).

 

 

The left and right primary buttons are mechanical ones and rated for up to 80 million clicks.

 

 

Again, the USB-C port is located at the lower front.

 

 

I was a bit surprised to see that the base of the Aerox 3 Wireless Gen 2 is frosted plastic.

 

 

Here we find two PTFE feet, TrueMove 26K optical sensor and a 2.4GHz/off/Bluetooth switch.

 

 

The 2.4GHz low-latency USB-C dongle is small but considerably larger compared to what other models are bundled with.

 

 

 

Not only does the Aerox 3 Wireless Gen 2 look very nice due to its RGB lighting zones but we also see why the base features a frosted plastic.

 

 

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GG SOFTWARE

 

 

 

 

 

As always once you download and install the SteelSeries GG software it will detect compatible SteelSeries devices (yes, I have the Aerox 3 mouse on my secondary rig) and check for available firmware updates.

 

 

Once you update the software and hover your cursor over the mouse drawing you can either enter the SteelSeries GG features or the Sensitivity Finder.

 

 

From the first tab you can program every single button, create macros, adjust sensitivity levels (DPI), enable/disable lift-off distance, set the power and sleep settings, adjust polling rate and enable/disable the wireless stability feature.

 

 

Inside the advanced tab SteelSeries has made it possible for the end user to match the performance of the Aerox 3 Wireless Gen 2 with that of their previous mouse and also to adjust acceleration, precision and basic lighting.

 

 

The prism tab gives you complete control on all three RGB zones (5 modes, brightness and speed).

 

 

Typically, the SteelSeries GG app also comes with the sonar and moments tabs.

 

 

Finally, the sensitivity finder page allows you to convert DPI between games (could be useful for serious gamers, personally I didn't use it much).

 

 

---

CONCLUSION

 

 

 

 

 

 

    Using the Aerox 3 Wireless Gen 2 day‑to‑day makes its positives and negatives impossible to miss, especially when switching between tasks and games. The lightweight design feels effortless in hand, the grip is secure without forcing your fingers into a fixed position, and the upgraded sensor delivers the kind of accuracy and speed that make quick flicks and micro‑adjustments feel natural. Battery life holds up impressively across long sessions (depends on RGB brightness and mode but for the most part I can verify the numbers SteelSeries states in the specifications sheet), the RGB lighting with its adjustable zones is tasteful without being distracting, and the IP54 AquaBarrier protection adds welcome peace of mind for dust and accidental spills. But it isn’t without drawbacks. SteelSeries GG can be temperamental at times with the Windows 10/11 OS, the wireless dongle is noticeably larger than what competing ultralight mice use, and just like the previous Aerox 3/Wireless, the open‑shell design means dust will eventually settle inside, and cleaning it out isn’t as simple as it should be.

    As I type these lines the Aerox 3 Wireless Gen 2 Gaming Mouse by SteelSeries retails for USD95.12 inside the USA (Amazon.com) and for 103.39Euros inside the EU (Amazon.de) and so it’s priced more or less well. Bottom line you just can’t go wrong with the Aerox 3 Wireless Gen 2 gaming mouse by SteelSeries just like you couldn’t go wrong with the first Aerox 3 line and that’s why the Golden Award is in order.

PROS

- Build Quality
- TrueMove 26K Sensor Performance (Speed / Accuracy)
- Wireless 2.4GHz, Bluetooth v5.0 & Wired Use
- Mechanical Primary Buttons (80 Million Clicks)
- 4K Wireless Rate
- 3 Adjustable RGB Zones
- Design / Fit / Weight
- Available Colors (Shadow, Ghost & Magenta Haze)

CONS

- Perforated Model (Dust Issues, Eventually)
- Wireless Dongle Size (Compared To Other Models)

 

 

INTRODUCTION

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

    As temperatures climb toward summer, more and more everyday electronics begin to run hotter than they were designed for. Devices like A/V receivers, routers, game consoles, DAC/amps, set‑top boxes, and even network switches often rely on passive ventilation, which becomes insufficient once ambient temperatures rise. That’s where purpose‑built, quiet, high‑static‑pressure fans become genuinely useful. Noctua’s HOME line takes the company’s proven PC cooling tech and adapts it for home, office, and multipurpose ventilation, offering modular mounts, gaskets, and ready‑to‑use fan kits that can cool anything from a stereo amplifier to a router or even a desk space. With summer heat approaching, these solutions help prevent thermal throttling, extend device lifespan, and maintain stable performance, all while staying nearly silent thanks to Noctua’s signature engineering.

    Noctua’s award-winning, premium quality quiet cooling components are internationally renowned for their superb acoustics, industry-leading performance-to-noise efficiency and remarkable longevity. Since its foundation in 2005, the Austrian manufacturer’s engineering-first mindset, history of innovations and relentless pursuit of continuous optimisation have become just as iconic as its long-term product support and excellence in customer service. Today, PC enthusiasts and industry clients alike swear by the signature blend of cutting-edge performance, outstanding quietness and ultimate reliability that makes Noctua’s products unique.

    The Noctua HOME line is anchored by three standout products that each solve a different thermal problem with Noctua’s signature engineering. The NV‑FS1 is the flagship multi‑purpose fan set, pairing the award‑winning NF‑A12x25 PWM chromax.black fan with the NV‑AA1-A12 airflow amplifier to create a strong, focused air stream ideal for desk cooling or spot‑cooling electronics. Its steel NV‑FM1 pivoting mount allows full angle adjustment and supports magnets, screws, and zip‑ties for mounting almost anywhere, while the included NA‑FC1 controller and NV‑PS1 universal power supply complete a fully modular, premium kit. The NV‑FS2, by contrast, is purpose‑built for device cooling, using the same NF‑A12x25 PWM chromax.black fan but replacing the amplifier with the thick NV‑MPG1 multi‑purpose rubber gasket and NV‑MPP1 rubber pads, allowing the fan to sit directly on top of A/V receivers, consoles, routers, or network gear to pull heat straight out of their ventilation grids. This makes it ideal for media cabinets, networking closets, or any enclosed electronics setup where airflow is limited. Finally, the NV‑SPH1 is Noctua’s powered fan‑hub solution, designed for users who need to run multiple fans from a single power source. It integrates cleanly with the HOME ecosystem, enabling multi‑fan cooling setups for larger equipment racks, cupboards, or multi‑device installations. Together, these three products form a flexible, modular cooling system that scales from a single amplifier‑boosted desk fan to a full multi‑fan electronics‑cooling array.

 

 

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SPECIFICATIONS AND FEATURES

 

 

 

 

 

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PACKAGING AND CONTENTS

 

 

 

 

 

Noctua send over pretty much the entire Home Line and at the front/top of each and every BOX we find a product Picture, the Noctua logo and a description.

 

 

Inside the box of the NV-SF1 you'll find the NF-A12x25 PWM chromax.black premium fan attached to the NA-AA1-12 airflow amplifier, NV-FM1 multi-purpose fan mount and the NA-FG1-12 120mm fan grill, NA-FC1 fan controller, NA-AC10 barrel to 4-pin adaptor cable, NV-EC4-1m extension cable, NV-PS1 power supply with 3 tips (US/EU/UK), 4 fan screws, 4 zip ties, 4 wall plugs and 4 mounting screws. The BOX of the NV-FM1 fan mount contains 4 NA-AV2 black anti-vibration mounts, 4 fan screws, 4 zip ties, 4 wall plugs and 4 mounting screws. Included in the NV-FS2 package are an NF-A12x25 PWM chromax.black premium fan, NV-MPG1-12.black multi-purpose gasket, 4 NV-MPP1.black multi-purpose pads, NA-FG1-12 120mm fan grill, NA-FC1 fan controller, NA-AC10 barrel to 4-pin adaptor cable, NV-EC4-1m extension cable and the NV-PS1 power supply with 3 tips (US/EU/UK). Finally, the NV-FH2 box only has the fan hub in it the NV-SPH1 bundle comes with the NV-FH2 fan hub and the NV-PS1 power supply with 3 tips (US/EU/UK).

 

 

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THE HOME LINE

 

 

 

 

 

What makes the NV-FS1 stand out is without doubt the NV-AA1-A12 airflow amplifier which basically focuses airflow to an narrower area thus improving efficiency.

 

 

The NV-FM1 multi-purpose pivoting fan mount allows for free range of motion (360 degrees pivot) and thanks to its 4 base magnets it can easily attach to metal surfaces.

 

 

Having the NV-FS1 on your desk (or anywhere) means safety comes first and for that Noctua has placed the NA-FG1-12 fan grille at the rear.

 

 

The NF-A12x25 PMW chromax.black can reach speeds of up to 2000RPM to provide up to 60.09 CFM of airflow and 2.34mmH2O of air pressure with just 22.6dBA of noise.

 

 

One interesting part of the HOME line is the NA-FC1 fan controller which supports a max power of 36W and thus can be used to control up to 3 fans (or more with a hub).

 

 

Noctua's current best seller in the HOME line is the NV-FS2 which is used solely to cool electronics.

 

 

The entire frame is made of rubber and consists by 5 pieces, the NV-MPG1-12.black (brown version also available) and the four rubber corners of the NV-MPP1.black Sx4.

 

 

Of course, as mentioned earlier it uses the exact same NF-A12x25 PMW chromax.black fan as the NV-FS1.

 

 

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TEST RESULTS

 

 

 

 

 

Unlike many years back I no longer have A/V amplifiers at home or the office so instead I used the ECS2512FP switch EnGenius, TPE-3012LS surveillance switch by TRENDnet, FRITZ!Box 7690 modem/router by AVM, SMT1500IC UPS by APC and the DVA1622 NVR by Synology (managed to assemble three NV-FS2 models with the parts and fans Noctua sent over, minus the grilles - since both the UPS and NVR are placed on the floor I used the NV-FS1 for those).

 

 

Thermal imaging reveals drops in temperature when using a NV-FS2 over a switch (facing downwards) but to be fair the NV-FS2 is aimed at electronics with perforated tops or sides (here even though the cover gets much cooler right under the fans interior is not as impacted and so heat is still indicated in other areas of the enclosure). Basically this is an example of how not to use the NV-FS2 (at least not if you can position it next to a perforated area).

 

 

The proper way to use the NV-FS2 with such devices is to place it on the side where the perforation is located at (since switches tend to be too thin placing them one over the other is the most cost-effective approach).

 

 

I tested the NV-FS2 both with it sucking air from inside both switches (top) and blowing air inside both switches (bottom).

 

 

 

With what I just said in mind the FRITZ!Box 7690 should be a much better fit for the NV-FS2 (its enclosure is partially perforated on top).

 

 

Here we can see the largest temperature reduction during my entire testing period (roughly 15 degrees Celsius).

 

 

The NV-FS1 is not really meant to cool electronics and you can see that from this test since both the UPS and NVR show an overall temperature drop of around 1 degree Celsius.

 

 

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CONCLUSION

 

 

 

 

 

 

    The Noctua HOME line delivers exactly what it promises, every product works as advertised (thermal pictures offer plenty proof of this), the build quality is unmistakably premium, and the visual design is clean enough to blend into any modern setup. Noise levels at typical operating speeds remain impressively low, making these fans ideal for living rooms, studios, and office spaces where silence matters. The only real drawbacks are the somewhat familiar ones, at full speed, even Noctua’s best engineering can’t defy physics, and so the NF-A12x25 fans mounted on the NV‑MPG1 can reach around 51 dBA at 1 meter when at full speed, which is obviously audible in a quiet room. And of course, pricing remains a recurring talking point, Noctua’s excellence has never come cheap. Still, for users who value reliability, acoustics, and long‑term durability, their HOME line stands out as one of the most refined and purpose‑built cooling solutions available today.

    The HOME line by Noctua is quite long and so for pricing I will just focus on the NV-FS1 and NV-FS2 models which currently retail for USD109.95/USD89.95 inside the USA and 106Euro/83.25Euro inside the EU respectively (seems that right now availability for the NV-FS1 is quite low in the EU). After spending months with the entire HOME line by Noctua although I do feel it’s a bit rough around the edges (multi-fan configurations for example result in many cables being used) it does help with temperatures, both when it comes to electronics and even ourselves and since they do deliver as advertised the Golden Award is in order.

PROS

- Cooling Efficiency
- Build Quality
- Available Models
- Available Parts (Wide Compatibility)
- Design (For Some)

CONS

- Price (For Some)
- Current EU Availability (NV-FS1)
- Noise Levels (Max Speed)

 

 

INTRODUCTION

 

 

 

 

 

 

    Solid‑state drives have made storage upgrades faster and more flexible, but managing them still requires the right tools. That’s where SSD docks and cloners come in, compact stations that let you access bare drives, migrate data, or duplicate entire dribes without having to use a PC. For anyone who works with multiple drives like technicians, reviewers, system builders, or just users maintaining regular backups these devices streamline tasks that would otherwise involve adapters, cables, or full system disassembly. Into this space steps the FIDECO M248, a quad SSD dock and standalone cloner that aims to combine simplicity, speed, and reliability in one small footprint.

    At FIDECO, we take “Quality is the best for brand” as our tenet and have been dedicated to providing high quality, cutting-edge technology products since year 2003, with the aim to offer customers easier solutions and better experiences by constantly optimizing product designs and performance.

    The FIDECO M248 is built as a professional‑grade 4‑bay M.2 NVMe dock and standalone cloner, designed for users who need fast transfers, multi‑drive management, and reliable offline operations. It comes with full support for M‑Key and M+B Key NVMe SSDs across all common lengths (2230/2242/2260/2280/22110) making it compatible with nearly every mainstream NVMe drive. Connectivity is based on TB4/USB4 interface, enabling up to 40Gbps data transfer when connected to a host system. This allows simultaneous read/write operations across multiple drives and as for cloning the M248 supports 1 to 1, 1 to 2, and 1 to 3 offline cloning, with speeds of 20Gbps for 1:1 and 10Gbps for multi‑target clones. These operations require don't require a computer, just insert the source drive into slot S1 and targets into the remaining bays. The dock also includes a one‑button offline data eraser, capable of securely wiping up to four SSDs at once. As for temperatures they are kept in check by an integrated 2500rpm foldable cooling fan and the housing which is primarily made by aluminum for optimal heat dissipation.

 

 

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SPECIFICATIONS AND FEATURES

 

 

 

 

 

 

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PACKAGING AND CONTENTS

 

 

 

 

 

Two product pictures, the company logo and the main product features are printed at the front.

 

 

On the right side we find several drawings showcasing the product dimensions and bundle contents.

 

 

You can check details for the local distributor and FIDECO from the left side.

 

 

At the rear of the box, we find the main product features listed in 7 languages.

 

 

Packaging is sufficient for this product (there's room for improvement however).

 

 

Along with the M248 dock inside the package you'll also find a power adapter with the tip used in that region, USB-C cable and the user manual.

 

 

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THE M248

 

 

 

 

 

With the fan folded the M248 measures 102mm in length, 88 in width and 36mm in height.

 

 

The fan part is made by plastic and increases the height of the M248 to 105mm.

 

 

On top of the device, we find 4 SSD slots (1 source, 3 target), power LED, 4 cloning percentage LEDs and the clone button.

 

 

FIDECO has used an 11-bladed 70mm fan that spins at 2500RPM.

 

 

At the rear of the enclosure we find the drive erase button, on/off switch, USB-C port, DC in and the fan on/off switch.

 

 

Aside the fan the rest of the enclosure is made of aluminum and the base actually looks like a heatsink.

 

 

To test the M248 cloning function I used two NVMe PCIe SSDs (2/4TB) while for external dock tests I used a total of 4 (1TB each).

 

 

Above you can see the thermals of the M248 without the 70mm fan spinning while the source SSD is being cloned onto the target one.

 

 

Having enabled the 70mm fan we see a maximum temperature drop of 12.4 Degrees Celsius.

 

 

---

CONCLUSION

 

 

 

 

 

 

    The FIDECO M248 is a practical, technician‑friendly NVMe dock that prioritizes workflow efficiency over headline‑grabbing speeds. Its strengths line up exactly where a multi‑bay tool should deliver, offline cloning that works reliably without a PC, four bays for parallel drive handling, broad SSD length compatibility, and a foldable cooling fan that keeps thermals under control during sustained transfers. In practice, these features translate into genuinely useful performance, cloning a 2TB NVMe (filled with data) in roughly 22 minutes, a result that’s fast enough for most upgrade, backup, and recovery scenarios. Combined with its compact footprint, the M248 fits naturally into repair benches, review setups, and any workflow that cycles through drives regularly. Its limitations are narrow but as always worth noting. Transfer speeds plateau around 1700MB/s for both reads and writes which although perfectly adequate for cloning and general data movement, it may not be ideal for users expecting full PCIe 4.0 or 5.0 throughput. And while the cooling system is effective, the 2500RPM 70mm fan can reach 41dBA at half a meter, a number which is quite noticeable, especially in a quiet workspace.

    Currently the FIDECO M248 4 Bay M.2 SSD Docking station retails for USD132.59 inside the USA (Amazon.com) and for 114.61Euros inside the EU (Amazon.de) so it’s priced just right. Overall, even though the M248 is certainly not perfect it does deliver as advertised and for most users, its trade‑offs won’t overshadow the dock’s versatility and convenience which is why I highly recommended checking it out if you’re in the market for such a dock/cloner.

 

PROS

- Aluminum Housing
- 4 SSD Slots/Bays
- TB4/USB4 Connectivity
- Cloning Function
- 70mm Foldable Fan
- Compact Size (Folded)
- Price (For Some)

CONS

- Maximum TB4/USB4 Speed
- Fan Noise

 

 

INTRODUCTION

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

    The days when a PSU could quietly sit in the background are over. ATX 3.1 and PCIe 5.1 have reshaped the expectations around power delivery, pushing manufacturers toward cleaner electrical behavior, safer connectors, and far tighter transient control. These standards didn’t appear out of nowhere, they’re a direct response to the way modern GPUs behave under load, and they set a new baseline for what “proper engineering” looks like in a power supply. For builders, that means fewer surprises, more predictable performance, and long‑term reliability around the 12V‑2x6 interface. The latest YT1000 power supply unit by CPS PcCooler is a 1000‑watt unit designed from the ground up to meet these next‑gen requirements.

    Shenzhen Fluence Technology PLC, established in 2005, is mainly engaged in lithium battery cathode materials, new cooling devices for electronic products and LED industry chain-related businesses, which is recognized as a national high-tech enterprise.

    The YT line of power supply units by CPS PcCooler currently includes 850/1000/12000W output variants all of which are ATX 3.1 & PCIe 5.1 compliant and Cybenetics Platinum certified (up to 93%+ efficiency). Τhe YT1000 model features a single 12V-2x6 power connector, three 6+2 pin PCIe power connectors, single +12V rail (83.3A) capable of delivering 99.9% of the units’ power output (999.6W) and has a total power output of no less than 1119W (220% peak for this model which should place it up to 2.46KW for up to 100ms - once again however this is not something I can test). Other features and specifications include Full-Bridge & LLC Resonant Converter paired with synchronous rectification and DC‑to‑DC regulation (thus allowing the unit to sustain stable voltage output even under rapid load shifts), active PFC, Smart ECO fan mode for the 135mm fan (starts spinning after a specific load), flat embossed Cables and a full array of electrical protections including over-current (OCP), over-voltage (OVP), under-voltage (UVP), short-circuit (SCP), over-temperature (OTP), surge protection (SPD) and over-power (OPP). As for warranty once again CPS PcCooler covers their YT line of power supply units with a 10-year limited one.

 

 

---

 

SPECIFICATIONS AND FEATURES

 

 

 

 

 

---

PACKAGING AND CONTENTS

 

 

 

 

 

At the front of the box CPS PcCooler has placed their logo, a large product picture and several certifications.

 

 

Moving at the rear we find the unit’s electrical table, available power cables and the specifications table.

 

 

As with past models, the unit is placed between two pieces of foam.

 

 

Along with the YT1000 power supply unit and its power cord inside the box you’ll also find 5 cable ties, 4 mounting screws, power tester, service & safety manual, quick start guide and the user manual.

 

 

---

 

THE YT1000 EXTERIOR

 

 

 

 

 

CPS PcCooler chose to go with low-profile (flat) embossed power cables for the entire YT line (12V-2x6 cables included).

 

 

Measuring 150mm in length, 150mm in width and 86mm in height the YT1000 is a compact high-output model.

 

 

The 135mm fluid dynamic bearing fan is placed underneath a nice-looking grille with the company logo next to it.

 

 

CPS PcCooler has placed their logo on both sides.

 

 

Typically, the electrical table is printed on a large sticker located at the base of the unit.

 

 

All 11 power ports at the front of the YT1000 are tagged (12V-2x6 port is also different in color).

 

 

At the rear we find the on/off power switch, ECO fan switch and the power port.

 

 

---

 

THE YT1000 INTERIOR

 

 

 

 

 

The YT1000 uses a 135mm FDM fan by Hong Hua rated for speeds up to 2300RPM.

 

 

Just like with the YT1200 the OEM behind the YT1000 is the Taiwanese Andyson International.

 

 

Primary capacitors are manufactured by Nippon Chemi-Con and are certified for use up to 105 degrees Celsius.

 

 

Secondary capacitors are by Rubycon and also certified for use up to 105 degrees.

 

 

---

TEST BED

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

TESTING METHODOLOGY

     Using a dedicated measurement instrument such as a Chroma or a SunMoon to test power supply units is without doubt the most ideal and accurate way (not to mention the fastest) to do that currently. However, it's certainly not the only way there is and so pretty much anyone can test a power supply unit just by using a test rig. Certainly, limitations do apply and so you can't really push a 1000W power supply to its limits if your system only uses 500W at peak loads and that's why over the years we saved certain hardware components for the purpose of building a dedicated PSU test rig. True it may not be as accurate as the above-mentioned solutions, but it comes really close and is in fact much closer to real world usage. So as always, we ran several games with maximum graphic options enabled at a resolution of 2560x1600 in order to stress every hardware component and increase the overall power demands of the system. The Passmark BurnIn Test was also used to overstress the components in an effort to provide the most accurate results possible. As a final test we also used the latest OCCT software and its dedicated PSU testing suite since it can really bring a power supply to its knees after inside a few minutes.

   Rail stability was checked/measured with the CPUID Hardware monitor and a Metex multimeter which also recorded the system load in idle and in load. As always try to remember that the power consumption numbers listed in the graph are the highest (Peak) ones recorded during the entire duration of the tests and not the average ones. Noise levels coming from the fan were recorded using the high precision HD600 ExTech Sound dBA Meter from the rear of the unit and at a range of no more than 5-10cm. Readings under load are recorded the exact moment we manually switch the fans of all graphics cards from full speed to almost zero, that way the fan of the power supply does not have enough time to slow its RPM and so by doing this we get very accurate noise level readings. Needless to say, in order to get 100% accurate readings, you need to have a noise isolated room for that exact purpose, something which is quite impossible unless you are working inside a real lab (some people use very small noise insulated boxes but due to their size both heat and noise exceed normal levels and so the results can't really be considered to be 100% accurate, nor realistic for that matter). Also do take into account that since all noise measurements take place from just 5-10cm away the final noise levels to reach your ears will be considerably less.

* After well over 10 years of testing PSUs the Intel Core i7-920 CPU of this rig failed and so we replaced it with a Xeon X5660 (we also swapped the GA-X58A-UD7 for the G1. Assassin).

 

 

---

 

TEST RESULTS

 

 

 

 

 

---

CONCLUSION

 

 

 

 

 

 

    The CPS PcCooler YT1000 lands in a genuinely competitive spot. Its build quality is better than expected for its class, helped by the use of Japanese capacitors and a platform that delivers impressively stable rails, even under aggressive load swings. Electrical efficiency is another strong point, with real‑world results pushing above 93%, putting it comfortably in high‑efficiency territory. But it isn’t without trade‑offs. The Taiwanese OEM behind the platform may raise eyebrows for buyers who prefer more established PSU manufacturers, and the Cybenetics Platinum badge, while credible, just doesn’t carry the same long‑standing recognition as 80 PLUS for some readers. Noise levels at load (especially near the limit) also creep higher than ideal, especially for users chasing near‑silent builds (although to be fair no one gets an 1KW unit to push it to its rated output, recommend grabbing an 1200W or higher output model for such use). Even so, the YT1000 presents a solid, forward‑looking ATX 3.1 option that delivers strong electrical performance where it matters, with only a few considerations depending on how much branding and acoustics matter to you.

    Exactly as with the YT12000 the YT1000 is not widely available and so I can only provide its MSRP (manufacturer’s suggested retail price) which is currently set at USD139.99. This is obviously the single most important drawback the YT line of power supply units currently has and so I hope CPS PcCooler can resolve this fast. Availability aside the YT1000 delivers where it matters most and even though it’s not perfect the Golden Award is in order.

PROS

- Good Build Quality
- Very Good Rail Stability
- ATX 3.1 & PCIe 5.1 Compliant
- Cybenetics Platinum Certified
- Electrical Protections (OCP/OVP/SSP/OPP/UVP/SPD/OTP)
- 10 Year Limited Warranty
- Price (MSRP)

CONS

- Aggressive Fan Curve At Load (For Some)
- Lack Of 80 PLUS Certification (For Some)
- Current Availability

 

 

INTRODUCTION

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

    With today’s GPUs capable of drawing sudden bursts of power far beyond their rated wattage, the shift to ATX 3.1 and PCIe 5.1 power supplies marks a necessary evolution, bringing improved transient tolerance, tighter voltage regulation, and the safer, simplified 12V‑2x6 connector that next‑generation graphics cards increasingly rely on to maintain stability under extreme load swings. These updated standards aren’t just incremental tweaks; they’re a response to the real electrical behavior of modern hardware, ensuring that high‑performance systems can sustain rapid changes in demand without voltage droop, cable stress, or the multi‑cable compromises older PSUs required. The MEGA GM 1000W is the latest ATX 3.1 & PCIe 5.1 model by FSP and that's also what today's review is all about.

    FSP Group is one of the global leading power supply manufacturers. Since its establishment in 1993, FSP Group has followed the management conception “service, profession, and innovation” to continuously fulfil its responsibilities as a green energy resolution supplier. With the combination of its leading role in power supply technology and the cultivation of green energy field, FSP Group now provides more competitive quality products and makes itself the most reliable partner for customers, consumers, and suppliers with joint creation of maximized values.

    Currently the MEGA GM line of ATX 3.1 & PCIe 5.1 power supply units includes 850/1000/1200W output models all of which are fully modular and 80 PLUS Gold certified (up to 90% electrical efficiency). Today I'll be testing the 1000W output variant which features a single 12V-2x6 power connector (600W), three 6+2 pin PCIe power connectors, single strong +12V rail (83.33A) capable of delivering 100% of the units’ total power output (1000W) and a maximum power output of no less than 1138W (peak should now be around 2.3KW for up to 100ms - once again however this is not something i can test). Other features include half-bridge & LLC resonant converter with synchronous rectification and DC to DC design, active PFC, eco semi-fanless mode for its 135mm fan (starts spinning after either temperatures reach 55 degrees Celsius or at 50% load), high-quality Japanese capacitors certified for use up to 105 degrees Celsius, proprietary MTLC® (Micro Tolerance Load Control) design (for ultra-precise voltage regulation within ±1%), exclusive conformal coating (enhanced resistance to humidity, dust, and environmental corrosion) and a full array of electrical protections including over-current (OCP), over-voltage (OVP), under-voltage (UVP), short-circuit (SCP), over-temperature (OTP), surge and in-rush (SIP), no-load operation (NLO) and over-power (OPP). Finally, as with past models FSP covers the entire MEGA GM line of power supply units with generous 10-year limited warranty.

 

 

---

 

SPECIFICATIONS AND FEATURES

 

 

 

 

 

 

---

PACKAGING AND CONTENTS

 

 

 

 

 

 

The MEGA GM is shipped inside a black box that has a product picture at the front alongside the company logo and the main product features.

 

 

All available power connectors are printed on the left side of the box.

 

 

Depending on region the MEGA GM comes with different power cords (indicated on top).

 

 

At the rear we find the features list in 10 languages and of course the product electrical table and contact information for FSP.

 

 

The interior of the box is made of recycled materials.

 

 

Along with the MEGA GM 1000W it's modular power cables and power cord inside the box you'll also find a PSU tester, 3 cable straps, 4 mounting thumbscrews, several cable holders, warranty paper and the user manual.

 

 

---

 

THE MEGA GM 1000W EXTERIOR

 

 

 

 

 

 

All modular power cables in the bundle feature individually sleeved cables, 12V-2x6 included.

 

 

Measuring just 150mm in length, 150mm in width and 86mm in height the MEGA GM 1000W is a rather compact model (always for its output).

 

 

The 135mm FDB (fluid dynamic bearing) fan sits under a silver grille.

 

 

Typically, the model name and brand logo are printed on both sides.

 

 

As usual the electrical table is printed on a large sticker located at the belly of the enclosure.

 

 

All 12 power connectors/ports at the front of the unit are different in shape and tagged.

 

 

At the rear we find the eco semi-fanless mode on/off switch, power on/off switch and the power port.

 

 

---

 

THE MEGA GM 1000W INTERIOR

 

 

 

 

 

 

The 135mm fluid dynamic bearing fan is manufactured by Power Logic.

 

 

Clean (and almost cable free) layout is exactly what I've come to expect from FSP over the years.

 

 

Primary capacitors are by Nippon Chemi-Con and Rubycon and are certified for use up to 105 degrees Celsius.

 

 

Secondary capacitors are also by Nippon Chemi-Con and Rubycon and are also certified for use up to 105 degrees Celsius.

 

 

---

TEST BED

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

TESTING METHODOLOGY

     Using a dedicated measurement instrument such as a Chroma or a SunMoon to test power supply units is without doubt the most ideal and accurate way (not to mention the fastest) to do that currently. However, it's certainly not the only way there is and so pretty much anyone can test a power supply unit just by using a test rig. Certainly, limitations do apply and so you can't really push a 1000W power supply to its limits if your system only uses 500W at peak loads and that's why over the years we saved certain hardware components for the purpose of building a dedicated PSU test rig. True it may not be as accurate as the above-mentioned solutions, but it comes really close and is in fact much closer to real world usage. So as always, we ran several games with maximum graphic options enabled at a resolution of 2560x1600 in order to stress every hardware component and increase the overall power demands of the system. The Passmark BurnIn Test was also used to overstress the components in an effort to provide the most accurate results possible. As a final test we also used the latest OCCT software and its dedicated PSU testing suite since it can really bring a power supply to its knees after inside a few minutes.

    Rail stability was checked/measured with the CPUID Hardware monitor and a Metex multimeter which also recorded the system load in idle and in load. As always try to remember that the power consumption numbers listed in the graph are the highest (Peak) ones recorded during the entire duration of the tests and not the average ones. Noise levels coming from the fan were recorded using the high precision HD600 ExTech Sound dBA Meter from the rear of the unit and at a range of no more than 5-10cm. Readings under load are recorded the exact moment we manually switch the fans of all graphics cards from full speed to almost zero, that way the fan of the power supply does not have enough time to slow its RPM and so by doing this we get very accurate noise level readings. Needless to say, in order to get 100% accurate readings, you need to have a noise isolated room for that exact purpose, something which is quite impossible unless you are working inside a real lab (some people use very small noise insulated boxes but due to their size both heat and noise exceed normal levels and so the results can't really be considered to be 100% accurate, nor realistic for that matter). Also do take into account that since all noise measurements take place from just 5-10cm away the final noise levels to reach your ears will be considerably less.

* After well over 10 years of testing PSUs the Intel Core i7-920 CPU of this rig failed and so we replaced it with a Xeon X5660 (we also swapped the GA-X58A-UD7 for the G1. Assassin).

 

 

---

 

TEST RESULTS

 

 

 

 

 

 

---

CONCLUSION

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

    The FSP MEGA GM 1000W delivers impressively stable rails, a native 12V‑2x6 connector for modern GPUs, and the dependable efficiency of an 80 PLUS Gold platform backed by Japanese capacitors, proprietary micro tolerance load control design and a conformal coating all of which reinforce long‑term durability. Its strong electrical foundation is further supported by a full array of protections ensuring the unit can safeguard both itself and the system during abnormal conditions or sudden load events. Combined with a 10‑year warranty, it feels like a PSU built for users who want reliability they won’t have to second‑guess.

    As I type these lines the MEGA GM 1000W ATX 3.1 & PCIe 5.1 power supply unit retails for around 160Euros inside the EU so no complaints here either. The only real drawback the MEGA GM line has is current availability and well, I sure hope FSP will resolve this sooner rather than later. At the end of the day for anyone prioritizing electrical performance, component quality, and next‑gen readiness, the MEGA GM 1000W justifies its position with confidence and that’s why it gets the Golden Award.

PROS

- Build Quality
- Near Excellent Rail Stability
- 80 PLUS Gold Certified (Up To 90% Electrical Efficiency)
- Electrical Protections (OVP/OCP/OPP/OTP/SCP/UVP/SIP/NLO)
- Micro Tolerance Load Control
- 12V-2x6 Connector (600W)
- Eco Semi Fanless Mode
- 10 Year Limited Warranty

CONS

- Current Availability

 

 

INTRODUCTION

 

 

 

 

 

 

    Whether you choose the freedom of wireless or the fidelity of a wired connection, great headphones share a single goal, to render music with truthful tone, expressive dynamics, and a sense of space that draws you in. Audiophile sound favors transparency over flash, letting recordings breathe and small details sing. Practical concerns like comfort, build, and how a headphone pairs with your gear shape the listening experience as much as frequency response. Enter the Aventho 200 by beyerdynamic, a refined closed‑back model built for everyday listening.

    Since 1924, beyerdynamic has stood for first-class, professional audio products that delight discerning customers around the world. The majority of the product lines are handmade at the Heilbronn site. In the product areas “Creator”, “Gamer”, “Work & Learn” and “Enjoyment - Music lovers”, beyerdynamic offers headphones, headsets, microphones, gaming, and home office products. They all have one thing in common: pristine sound. This has always carried the company across the emotional stages of the world, through the inspiring studios of the cities and into the ears and hearts of the people.

    The Aventho 200 (currently available in black and Nordic grey colors) are over‑ear, closed‑back headphones based on two 45mm dynamic drivers (10Hz-22kHz), active noise cancelling (ANC via 2 ENC MEMS microphones), 4 MEMS microphones and Qualcomm cVc for clearer speech and Bluetooth v5.4 connectivity with support for AAC, SBC, aptX Adaptive, and aptX Lossless audio codecs (with multipoint pairing and Google Fast Pair). The lithium-ion battery pack is user replaceable and according to beyerdynamic it can keep the Aventho 200 going for up to 63 hours and up to 40 hours with ANC active (fast charge is also supported - 16 hours of music playback with just a 15-minute charge). Other features include touch pad controls, earcup sensors (for when wearing and removing the headphones), replaceable ear pads, and a soft storage/carrying pouch.

 

 

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SPECIFICATIONS AND FEATURES

 

 

 

 

 

---

PACKAGING AND CONTENTS

 

 

 

 

 

The Aventho 200 box has the company logo at the front along with a product picture right over the main product features.

 

 

At the rear we find several pictures along with the main features, bundle contents and contact information for beyerdynamic.

 

 

Once you open the box, you'll find a paper with a few words from beyerdynamic.

 

 

Along with the Aventho 200 inside the box you'll also find a soft storage/carrying pouch, USB-A to USB-C cable, 3.5mm cable, safety and warranty information paper and a quick start guide.

 

 

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THE AVENTHO 200

 

 

 

 

 

The Aventho 200 are primarily made of plastic, aluminum and fauxe leather and weigh 293g.

 

 

They are small to medium sized headphones thus ideal to use everywhere.

 

 

On the exterior of the left earcup we find the product name (this is also the earcup that holds the replaceable battery).

 

 

Beyerdynamic has placed their logo on both ends of the headband.

 

 

Around the left earcup we also find two microphone holes, 3.5mm port, USB-C port and an activity LED.

 

 

The exterior of the right earcup has the touch controls and so from here you can start/stop playback, enable voice assistant, accept/end/cancel/reject call, play next/previous track and increase/decrease volume.

 

 

Around the right earcup we find another microphone hole, activity LED, on/off/Bluetooth pairing/reset switch, and the ANC/transparency/sidetone button.

 

 

The earcups are large enough for most ears and inside they also feature sensors that enable the Aventho 200 to automatically pause music when you're not wearing them.

 

 

Left and right markings are placed on the interior of the headband right over contact information for beyerdynamic.

 

 

Thanks to the joints beyerdynamic has placed the earcups can swivel and fold as seen above.

 

 

The headpad is filled with memory foam and also has a fontanelle recess for improved comfort.

 

 

As with past models beyerdynamic has placed their name on top of the headband.

 

 

The Aventho 200 can extend on either side up to 42mm (84mm total) via 14 increments.

 

 

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BEYERDYNAMIC APP

 

 

 

 

 

For complete control over the Aventho 200 you should use the beyerdynamic app.

As you can all see the app checks for new firmware updates and informs you of it.

 

 

Everything is included in the main tab so from here you can access the equalizer function (5 modes), ANC (2 modes), Sidetone, auto shutdown, wearing detection, low latency, touch pad guide, voice prompts (English & German), and LED brightness.

 

 

Finally, you can do a factory reset from inside the settings tab.

 

 

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CONCLUSION

 

 

 

 

 

    The Aventho 200 is a music‑first headphone that consistently favors tonal accuracy and midrange clarity over flashy coloration, vocals and acoustic instruments sit forward and natural, bass is tight and controlled rather than overblown, and the treble is detailed without becoming tiring, something that makes long sessions comfortable. Imaging and dynamic pacing feel coherent and musical, giving a convincing sense of timing and placement without pretending to be an ultra‑wide soundstage. Battery life and fast‑charge performance are standout practical advantages (although this depends a lot on volume, touchpad use and enabled features – never surpassed 55 hours without ANC for example), and modern Bluetooth features (multipoint and aptX adaptive/lossless) make the Aventho 200 flexible across devices. Build quality and serviceability (user replaceable pads and battery), plus app customization add real long‑term value. The active noise reduction works well for everyday environments but doesn’t reach the deepest levels of isolation, and the touch controls can be hit‑or‑miss in quick interactions.

    At the time of my review the Aventho 200 by beyerdynamic retail for 239.99Euros inside the EU (Amazon.de) and so they are priced just a tad higher than what I was expecting. At the end of the day the Aventho 200 may not be the best ANC model in the market today but thanks to their audio precision, build quality and available features they clearly deserve the Golden Award.

PROS

- Overall Quality
- Audio Performance
- Available Features (ANC / Transparency / Sidetone / aptX Lossless)
- Battery Life (Up To Over 60 Hours)
- 6 MEMS Microphones
- Touch Pad Controls
- Earcups Fold & Swivel
- Comfort Levels
- beyerdynamic app

CONS

- Lack Of Hi Res Codec Support (LHDC/LDAC/aptX HD)
- Touch Pad Sensitivity
- Price (For Some)

 

 

INTRODUCTION

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

    Every year, gaming laptops inch closer to the dream, desktop‑level performance without chaining yourself to a desk. We’ve reached a point where these machines aren’t just “portable enough”, they’re legitimate daily drivers for gamers, creators, and power users who expect serious horsepower on demand. Between high‑refresh displays, power‑dense GPUs, and cooling systems that look like they belong in a wind tunnel, the category has matured into a space where performance and portability finally coexist. Lenovo’s Legion Pro 7 16IAX10H enters this arena with the confidence of a system designed to dominate.

    Lenovo is a US$69 billion revenue global technology powerhouse, ranked #196 in the Fortune Global 500, and serving millions of customers every day in 180 markets. Focused on a bold vision to deliver Smarter Technology for All, Lenovo has built on its success as the world’s largest PC company with a full-stack portfolio of AI-enabled, AI-ready, and AI-optimized devices (PCs, workstations, smartphones, tablets), infrastructure (server, storage, edge, high performance computing and software defined infrastructure), software, solutions, and services. Lenovo’s continued investment in world-changing innovation is building a more equitable, trustworthy, and smarter future for everyone, everywhere. Lenovo is listed on the Hong Kong stock exchange under Lenovo Group Limited (HKSE: 992) (ADR: LNVGY). To find out more visit https://www.lenovo.com

    The Lenovo Legion Pro 7 16IAX10H is available in two colors (eclipse black or glacier white) and is built around the top CPU's by both Intel and AMD, giving it a high‑end foundation for esports‑level frame rates and demanding multitasking (HM870 motherboard chipset and LA3 AI chip). The 16‑inch WQXGA 16:10 OLED display (2560×1600 - 500nits typical / 1100nits peak) delivers a 240Hz refresh rate, 1ms response, 100% DCI‑P3, X‑Rite certification, Dolby Vision, DisplayHDR and VESA TrueBlack 1000, making it one of the most advanced gaming panels Lenovo offers currently. There are quite a few region dependent variants of this model but the one I have in my hands today comes with the Intel Core Ultra 9 275HX CPU and has its graphics handled by the NVIDIA GeForce RTX 5080 Laptop GPU with 16GB of GDDR7, a 175W design with Blackwell‑generation AI acceleration and full support for DLSS 4, Reflex 2, G‑SYNC, and the rest of NVIDIA’s 50‑series feature stack. It also sports 32GB of DDR5‑6400 (expandable up to 64GB) in a dual‑channel configuration, 1TB PCIe Gen5 M.2 2280 SSD (2 PCIe M.2 slots available in total), 5MP webcam with E-Shutter, dual microphones and as for sound it features a 4-speaker system (2Wx2 woofers, 2Wx2 tweeters) complete with Nahimic Audio and handled by the Realtek ALC3306 HD codec. Cooling is handled by Legion ColdFront technology (vapor with integrated hyper chamber design - 250W TDP) while power is supplied by a 400W adapter paired with a 99.9Wh battery. Connectivity is very rich and includes Wi‑Fi 7, Bluetooth v5.4, Thunderbolt 4 USB-C, dual USB‑C with DP 2.1, three USB‑A ports (2xUSB 3.2 Gen1, 1xUSB 3.2 Gen 2), HDMI v2.1 (up to 8K/60Hz) and 2.5GbE RJ45 LAN. Finally, the Legion Pro 7 16IAX10H also features a quad‑zone RGB lighting setup, consisting of per‑key RGB on the TrueStrike keyboard, an illuminated rear Legion logo, and RGB lighting along the lower front and rear edge, giving the chassis its signature visual identity.

 

 

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SPECIFICATIONS AND FEATURES

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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PACKAGING AND CONTENTS

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Lenovo uses a black box to ship the Legion Pro 7 line the front of which has their logo and the line name.

 

 

The serial numbers and barcodes are all printed on a sticker placed on the right side.

 

 

Packaging is very good with the laptop wrapped inside plastic and placed in two pieces of foam (the rest of the bundle is placed in a cardboard box).

 

 

Along with the Legion Pro 7 16IAX10H inside the box you'll also find the power adapter, power cord, plastic case with cleaning tools and several replacement keys and keycaps, warranty information paper, Wi-Fi instructions and the user manual.

 

 

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THE LEGION PRO 7 16IAX10H

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

The enclosure of the Legion Pro 7 16IAX10H is almost entirely made of anodized aluminum.

 

 

Since this is a 16-inch model it's not only very thin but also compact (short video showcasing this model is available both on TikTok & YouTube)

 

 

The round LED at the center just over the keyboard indicates the current gaming mode (blue for quiet, white for auto and red for performance).

 

 

As with most gaming laptops the Lenovo Pro 7 16IAX10H has a rather large touchpad area.

 

 

On the lower right Lenovo has placed the key combination for the gaming mode.

 

 

Taking a look at the left side, we find the power port, HDMI v2.1 output, two USB-C ports (1xPD65-100W, 1xTB4/USB4) and a USB-A 10Gbps port.

 

 

On the opposite side we find the RJ45 2.5G LAN port, camera privacy switch (E-Shutter), two USB-A 5Gbps ports and an 3.5mm headphone output.

 

 

Regardless of whether you're a gamer, professional or casual user the 5MP camera is nothing to get excited over but it should be ok for basic use.

 

 

The rear of the Legion Pro 7 16IAX10H has two RGB lighting zones, the logo and the sport design under the Lenovo brand name.

 

 

Just like most if not all laptops today the entire bottom features a single cover.

 

 

A 400W power adapter completes the puzzle.

 

 

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LEGION SPACE

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Exactly like ASUS, MSI and other brands Lenovo also has their own software called Legion Space.

From the main tab of the Legion Space software, you can monitor CPU, RAM and GPU load, switch between profiles (quiet, balanced and performance), set the preferred graphics mode (dGPU or hybrid) and adjust RGB brightness.

 

 

From inside the lighting theme tab, you can access all four RGB zones and use one of the 13 available effects (plus a custom one).

 

 

The device tab includes settings for the power, display, system performance, and features like aim assist.

 

 

Inside the services and utilities tab Lenovo has placed features like memory optimization.

 

 

Finally, from the wallpaper tab you can use one of the many wallpapers Lenovo has made available.

 

 

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TEST BED

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

TESTING METHODOLOGY

    To ensure consistency and reproducibility across all laptop evaluations, each will undergo a structured, multi‑stage testing process. Performance is assessed using a diverse suite of industry‑standard benchmarks including 3DMark (Speed Way, Steel Nomad, CPU Profile), UL Procyon (AI Computer Vision 2.0, AI Image Generation, AI Text Generation, Office Productivity – laptops with VRAM under 8GB are unable to complete all tests -, Battery Life – maximum screen brightness, high performance power plan), Cinebench 2026, PassMark Performance Test 11, Geekbench AI (non-NPU laptops can’t complete all tests), Geekbench 6, and Cyberpunk 2077: Phantom Liberty (1080p & native resolution - if applicable - ultra graphics, with and without RT enabled).

    All display testing begins with a full calibration process using the Datacolor Spyder Pro. This ensures that subsequent measurements like gamut coverage, brightness levels, and overall panel accuracy are taken from a standardized baseline. Acoustic output under load is captured using the ExTech HD600 sound meter, external thermal behavior both in idle and sustained load is documented with thermal imaging systems from FossiBot and as for power consumption it's monitored through an AVM FRITZ!DECT 210 smart plug paired with an APC BR1600SI UPS, enabling precise idle and load measurements.

 

 

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TEST RESULTS - DATACOLOR SPYDER PRO

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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TEST RESULTS - 3D MARK / PROCYON

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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TEST RESULTS - GEEKBENCH 6 / GEEKBENCH AI

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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TEST RESULTS - CINEBENCH 2026 / PERFORMANCE TEST

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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TEST RESULTS - CYBERPUNK 2077: PHANTOM LIBERTY

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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TEST RESULTS - POWER CONSUMPTION / BATTERY LIFE / NOISE LEVELS

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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TEST RESULTS - THERMALS

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

The powerful cooling system may get loud at load but it keeps temperatures lower than expected.

 

 

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CONCLUSION

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

    The Legion Pro 7 16IAX10H stands out as a machine built around clear priorities, speed, visual quality, and sustained performance. Its 240Hz OLED panel is the kind of display that immediately elevates the experience, rich colors, deep contrast, and fast pixel response all working together to make games and content look exceptionally clean. The combination of the Core Ultra 9 275HX and GeForce RTX 5080 gives the system the muscle to drive that panel properly, pushing high frame rates while staying responsive under heavier workloads (still, anyone familiar with the desktop RTX 5080 will still feel the difference in sustained workloads and heavy raster performance). Lenovo’s ColdFront cooling design keeps the hardware operating at full tilt longer than most machines in this class while the aluminum chassis itself feels solid, with the quad‑zone RGB lighting and 4‑speaker audio system adding both personality and practical quality-of-life touches. There are trade‑offs, and they’re the kind you expect from a high‑wattage gaming laptop. Performance mode brings noticeable fan noise when stressed, the lack of a fingerprint sensor may annoy some people, and battery life remains somewhat limited when you’re away from the charger. None of these undermine the core experience, but they’re worth keeping in mind if you plan to use the system in quieter or unplugged scenarios.

    The Legion Pro 7 16IAX10H gaming laptop by Lenovo is currently listed for USD2999 inside the USA (Amazon.com) and for around 3300Euros inside the EU. Yes, it’s far from what most people would call affordable but such high-cost models always have a rather specific target audience. Cost aside however the Legion Pro 7 16IAX10H by Lenovo is clearly the best laptop I’ve ever used (my almost 4-year-old ASUS TUF A15 FA507UN with its Ryzen 7 7435H, 16GB DDR5 RAM and GeForce RTX 4050 never stood a chance) so the Golden Award is obviously in order.

PROS

- Build Quality
- Top Tier Performance
- 240Hz OLED Display
- Cooling Efficiency
- Size / Weight
- Connectivity (TB4/2xUSBC/3xUSBA/HDMI v2.1/2.5G LAN/WiFi7/Bluetooth v5.4)
- 5MP Webcam With E Shutter Function
- 4 Speaker System With Nahimic Audio
- Overall Power Consumption
- 4 Zone RGB Lighting
- Legion Space Software

PROS

- Overall Availability
- Price (For Some)
- Noise Levels (Load)

 

 

INTRODUCTION

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

    Desktop and bookshelf speakers have evolved into a sweet spot for listeners who want real Hi‑Res audio performance without committing to full‑size floor standing models. Modern compact designs can deliver impressive clarity, wide soundstage, and tight low‑end control, especially when paired with high‑resolution sources that reveal the finer textures in vocals and instruments. Wireless connectivity has also matured to the point where Bluetooth and Wi‑Fi streaming no longer feel like compromises, giving you the freedom to place speakers where they sound best rather than where cables allow. Edifier recently unveiled the compact M90 Hi-Res Multimedia Speakers and well, I've been using them for almost 3 weeks now.

    Edifier specializes in premium sound systems that showcase technological innovation and design elegance, delivering outstanding audio experiences through a wide range of headphones, speakers, and music systems, for personal entertainment and professional excellence. Established in May 1996 in Beijing, Edifier is the brainchild of a small group of enterprising music lovers. Over the past 25 years, Edifier has been guided by the “passion for sound” principle, which helped the brand emerge as a world-class designer and manufacturer of award-winning sound systems. Today, Edifier serves audio lovers worldwide through its distributors in over 70 countries, with operations in North America, South America, Europe, the Middle East, and Asia Pacific regions.

    The Edifier M90 is built around a 100WRMS bi‑amped architecture, using dual high‑efficiency Class‑D amplifiers to drive its 4‑inch (102mm) long‑throw aluminum diaphragm mid‑bass drivers and 1‑inch (25mm) silk‑dome tweeters, a configuration engineered for clean dynamics, extended bass, and smooth high‑frequency detail (50Hz-40kHz response). Its signal chain is fully digital, featuring end‑to‑end 24‑bit/96kHz DSP, a high‑resolution analog front end, and active crossover with DRC, ensuring precise control and faithful reproduction whether the source is analog or digital. The M90 carries both Hi‑Res Audio and Hi‑Res Audio Wireless certifications, supported by Bluetooth v6.0 with LDAC streaming up to 990kbps, plus Bluetooth multipoint via the Edifier ConneX app for seamless device switching. Connectivity is a major strength since the system includes HDMI eARC with CEC support for TV volume/power control, Optical SPDIF, USB‑C, and AUX inputs, making it equally suitable for desktop, media‑center, and mixed‑use setups. A dedicated sub output allows integration with an external subwoofer for deeper low‑frequency extension. Physical design remains compact at 133x212x210/225mm per speaker, with a clean, modern enclosure and an included 2.4GHz omni‑directional remote for convenient control. Together, these features position the M90 as a highly capable, high‑resolution desktop or bookshelf speaker system with the connectivity and processing architecture typically found in larger, more expensive audio components.

 

 

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SPECIFICATIONS AND FEATURES

 

 

 

 

 

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PACKAGING AND CONTENTS

 

 

 

 

 

Edifier uses a white box to ship the M90 the front of which is taken by a large product picture, their logo, Hi-Res logos and available connectivity.

 

 

The M90 specifications and features are listed on the left side in 10 languages.

 

 

3 product pictures are placed on the right side along with contact information for Edifier and several certifications.

 

 

Both speakers are placed between two thick pieces of cardboard while the rest of the bundle is placed in two small cardboard boxes.

 

 

Along with the M90 speakers and their power cord inside the box you'll also find a remote control with 2 AAA batteries, coaxial speaker connection cable, RCA to 3.5mm cable, 3.5mm cable, USB-C cable, optical cable, warranty information paper, safety information paper and a quick start guide.

 

 

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THE M90

 

 

 

 

 

The M90 are available in black and white matte color and each cabin weighs 6.05Kg and measures 212mm in height, 133mm in width and 225mm in length for the right (active) speaker and 210mm for the left speaker.

 

 

At the front of each speaker, we find a 1‑inch (25mm) silk‑dome tweeter and a 4‑inch (102mm) long‑throw aluminum diaphragm mid‑bass driver right beneath it.

 

 

As mentioned already since the right (active)speaker has the controls at the rear it's longer than the left one.

 

 

Turning both speakers around we find the coaxial port on the left and all other connectors and controls on the right.

 

 

These include the volume control knob, coaxial and power ports and the HDMI eARC, optical SPDIF, USB-C and 3.5mm aux inputs and sub output.

 

 

The remote control is nothing special in terms of quality and looks but it does have any button you'd ever need for the M90.

 

 

Once again to test the speakers in hand, I'll be using the FiiO R9 (primarily), R7, M15 and M23 music players.

 

 

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CONNEX APP

 

 

 

 

 

Once again just like with past models for full control over the M90 I strongly recommend downloading the Edifier ConneX smartphone app.

From the main tab this app allows you to change the input source, use the built-in equalizer (4 effects and 1 custom), set the volume and change input.

 

 

Accessing the settings tab (top right) allows you to read the online manual, change the speaker channel (left/right), enable/disable power saving mode, check connected devices, change the codec to LDAC (disabled by default - once enabled the Hi-Res logo lights up in the main tab), enable/disable multipoint, power off the speakers and disconnect Bluetooth.

 

 

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CONCLUSION

 

 

 

 

 

 

    The Edifier M90 behaves like a compact 2.0 system built around controlled directivity and a low‑distortion mid‑bass driver, producing a response that stays linear through the vocal band and only lifts slightly in the upper registers. Its cabinet volume and port tuning give it lower‑frequency authority than its footprint suggests while the system maintains composure at higher playback levels without obvious compression artifacts. Connectivity is unusually broad for this form factor, with HDMI eARC, USB‑C, optical, analog, sub‑out, and LDAC wireless it's functionally closer to a small media hub than a typical desktop pair. Unfortunately, the lack of RCA (left/right) ports is regrettable especially for people who happen to own expensive pairs of such cables (myself included). This will obviously not be a huge issue for most people (let’s face it, potential buyers will be mostly interested in HDMI eARC or LDAC wireless) but for audiophiles and professionals alike this is always the preferred type of connection. As with past speakers by Edifier by default LDAC operates at 44.1/48kHz and so you need to enable 96kHz from within the ConneX app to remove the bandwidth cap and let the codec run at its full profile, which is useful for users who want to avoid unnecessary resampling. The enclosure is rigid, the finish looks and feels nice, and the availability of black and white variants makes the M90 easy to integrate into different setups.

    Currently retailing for USD295.19 inside the USA (Amazon.com) and for 312.59Euros inside the EU (Amazon.de) the M90 by Edifier are priced properly. At the end of the day the M90 delivers as advertised, yes RCA inputs would make lots of sense for a 2026 model but that aside this is a great stereo set worthy of the Golden Award.

PROS

- Build Quality
- Very Good Audio Reproduction (Accuracy / Detail)
- HiRes Wired & Wireless Audio (LDAC)
- HDMI eARC Input
- Volume & Bass Levels
- Available Colors (Black & White)
- ConneX App

CONS

- Lack Of RCA Inputs
- LDAC 96kHz Disabled By Default (ConneX App Needed To Enable)