Tag: latest tech innovations

Lenovo Legion Go S review: feels good, plays bad

The Lenovo Legion Go S was supposed to change things. It was poised to show Valve isn’t the only one that can build an affordable, portable, potent handheld gaming PC — you just need the right design and the right OS.

I was intrigued when Valve’s own Steam Deck designers told me this Windows handheld would double as the first authorized third-party SteamOS handheld this May. When I heard Lenovo had procured an exclusive AMD chip that would help that SteamOS version hit $499, I got excited for a true Steam Deck competitor.

But I’m afraid that chip ain’t it.

I’ve spent weeks living with a Legion Go S powered by AMD’s Z2 Go, the same chip slated to appear in that $499 handheld. I’ve used it with both Windows and Bazzite, a SteamOS-like Linux distro that eliminates many of Windows’ most annoying quirks. I tested both directly against a Steam Deck OLED and the original Legion Go, expecting to find it between the two in terms of performance and battery life. But that’s not what I found.

Watt for watt, its Z2 Go chip simply can’t compete with the Steam Deck, and it’s far weaker than the Z1 Extreme in last year’s handhelds. That’s inexcusable at the $730 price you’ll currently pay for the Windows version, and I won’t be the first reviewer to say so. But with this less efficient chip and a mere 55 watt-hour battery, I worry the Legion Go S isn’t a good choice at all.

$730

The Good

Good ergonomics
Great variable refresh rate screen
Powerful cooling
Fast 100W charging

The Bad

Performance is too low
Windows is bloated and can’t be trusted to sleep
Somewhat slippery texture
Nearly useless touchpad

I want to say that the Legion Go S “makes a great first impression,” but Windows 11 still features a terrible out-of-box experience. I spent nearly 45 minutes waiting for mandatory updates to install and dismissing dark-patterned offers for Microsoft products that have no business being on my handheld gaming machine.

Still, the Go S is built far better than the original Legion Go, whose flat-faced controllers felt awkward in my hands. The new portable has some of the best-sculpted grips I’ve felt on a handheld, though their smooth texture can feel a little slippery. I’d have gone with more aggressive stippling to help me hold its 1.61-pound weight.

Photo by Antonio G. Di Benedetto / The Verge

But its buttons all feel precise and secure, if the triggers are longer than I’d like, and its concave-topped, drift-resistant Hall effect joysticks feel comfy and wonderfully smooth to spin. The only weak control is the touchpad, which is so tiny I flick repeatedly to move the cursor an inch at a time.

Audio is much improved from front-facing speakers, and a larger fan moves more air while staying quieter than before. And it’s one of the fastest-charging handhelds yet — I clocked each of its top-mounted USB 4 ports drawing a full 100 watts of USB-C PD power during actual use. The cooling and charging are so good, Lenovo lets you crank the chip up to 40-watt TDP while it’s plugged in or 33 watts on battery alone.

The backs of the original Legion Go and Legion Go S, showing detachable controls vs. fixed grips.

Photo by Sean Hollister / The Verge

But as you’ll see in my benchmark charts, the Z2 Go simply isn’t in the same ballpark as the Steam Deck OLED’s “Sephiroth” chip. In some games, it can’t beat the Steam Deck at all, even if you plug it in and crank it all the way up.

Legion Go S 720p benchmarks

Game	Legion Go S (Z2 Go)	Steam Deck OLED	Legion Go (Z1 Extreme)	Z1E vs. Z2 Go
AC Valhalla, 15-watt TDP	44	52	49	11.36%
20-watt TDP	55	N/A	63	14.55%
25-watt TDP	60	N/A	69	15.00%
30-watt TDP	62	N/A	71	14.52%
Plugged in	65	52	73	12.31%
Cyberpunk 2077, 15-watt TDP	36	52	42	16.67%
20-watt TDP	41	N/A	54	31.71%
25-watt TDP	45	N/A	59	31.11%
30-watt TDP	46	N/A	61	32.61%
Plugged in	49	52	62	26.53%
DX: Mankind Divided, 15-watt TDP	56	70	61	8.93%
20-watt TDP	63	N/A	84	33.33%
25-watt TDP	66	N/A	89	34.85%
30-watt TDP	67	N/A	91	35.82%
Plugged in	70	70	92	31.43%
Horizon Zero Dawn Remastered, 15-watt TDP	18	34	25	38.89%
20-watt TDP	21	N/A	28	33.33%
25-watt TDP	20	N/A	28	40.00%
30-watt TDP	24	N/A	28	16.67%
Plugged in	24	34	33	37.50%
Returnal, 15-watt TDP	24	26	32	33.33%
20-watt TDP	26	N/A	38	46.15%
25-watt TDP	29	N/A	40	37.93%
30-watt TDP	30	N/A	41	36.67%
Plugged in	32	26	38	18.75%
Shadow of the Tomb Raider, 15-watt TDP	53	61	50	-5.66%
20-watt TDP	53	N/A	69	30.19%
25-watt TDP	55	N/A	75	36.36%
30-watt TDP	64	N/A	73	14.06%
Plugged in	65	61	75	15.38%

Average framerates. All games tested at 720p and low or (Cyberpunk 2077) handheld-specific settings.

Take Cyberpunk 2077. With the Steam Deck, which runs at 15-watt TDP, I can average 52 frames per second at an upscaled 720p resolution and low settings on battery power alone. But even if I feed the Legion Go S with 40 watts and plug it into a wall, the open-world game runs slower at 49fps. And that’s after a new set of drivers; the shipping ones were much worse.

Photo by Antonio G. Di Benedetto / The Verge

In other games, cranking up Lenovo’s TDP by five, 10, or 15 watts can give it a comfortable lead over the Deck. But that significantly impacts battery. In Lenovo’s default 25W “Performance” mode, I saw some games run just as smoothly as on the Deck — but with total system power consumption of around 36 watts, draining the handheld’s 55 watt-hour battery in about an hour and a half. The Steam Deck, which drains at around 22 to 24 watts at full bore, lasts two hours at the same smoothness.

I have possible good news about SteamOS: when I installed Bazzite, which can serve as a decent preview of what SteamOS might look and feel like, I saw frame rates improve by an average of 16 percent in early tests (minus Returnal, which seems to hate Linux for some reason), and Bazzite is such a breath of fresh air after attempting to use Windows. But it still didn’t reach Steam Deck performance unless I sacrificed more battery to get it. That works with a handheld like the Asus ROG Ally X with a big 80 watt-hour battery, but not so much here.

Legion Go S Windows vs. Bazzite

Game	Legion Go S (Windows)	Legion Go S (Bazzite)	Steam Deck OLED	Bazzite vs. Windows
Cyberpunk 2077, 15-watt TDP	36	42	52	16.67%
20-watt TDP	41	53	N/A	29.27%
25-watt TDP	45	59	N/A	31.11%
30-watt TDP	46	60	N/A	30.43%
Plugged in	49	60	52	22.45%
DX: Mankind Divided, 15-watt TDP	56	62	70	10.71%
20-watt TDP	63	74	N/A	17.46%
25-watt TDP	66	80	N/A	21.21%
30-watt TDP	67	84	N/A	25.37%
Plugged in	70	82	70	17.14%
Returnal, 15-watt TDP	24	17	26	-29.17%
20-watt TDP	26	22	N/A	-15.38%
25-watt TDP	29	24	N/A	-17.24%
30-watt TDP	30	25	N/A	-16.67%
Plugged in	32	25	26	-21.88%
Shadow of the Tomb Raider, 15-watt TDP	53	51	61	-3.77%
20-watt TDP	53	59	N/A	11.32%
25-watt TDP	55	62	N/A	12.73%
30-watt TDP	64	63	N/A	-1.56%
Plugged in	65	65	61	0.00%

Average framerates. All games tested at 720p and low or (Cyberpunk 2077) handheld-specific settings.

Even if you crank up the Z2 Go, its “turbo” modes are never anywhere near as effective as the Z1 Extreme in last year’s portables. In my tests, the original Legion Go with Z1E runs anywhere from 15 percent to 40 percent faster comparing Windows to Windows — a lot for a handheld, where modern games struggle to reach smooth frame rates at all.

The Legion Go S does have an ace up its sleeve: its crisp, colorful 1920 x 1200 IPS screen looks better at lower resolutions than its predecessor’s 2560 x 1600 panel, and it runs more smoothly at lower frame rates now that it has VRR to adjust its refresh rate anywhere between 48Hz and 120Hz on the fly. I would not buy a Legion Go over a Legion Go S for this reason alone.

Photo by Antonio G. Di Benedetto / The Verge

And if you primarily play games that don’t require performance, the Legion Go S is a bit more efficient at lower wattage: by setting TDP, brightness, and refresh rate low, I was able to achieve a total of just 7.5W battery drain in Windows and 7W in Bazzite while playing magic math poker game Balatro. That should net me seven to eight hours of battery life, and you should be able to hit the four-hour mark without those tricks just by setting the Legion Go S to its 8-watt TDP “Quiet” mode. When I played the similarly easy to run Slay the Spire on the original Legion Go, pulling out all the stops, I couldn’t even reach five hours.

Photo by Antonio G. Di Benedetto / The Verge

But again, the Steam Deck does efficiency better. Simply limiting frame rate to 25fps and brightness to 40 percent can yield over eight hours of Balatro on the Deck, and I’ve gotten four hours, 42 minutes in Dave the Diver there. With the Legion Go S, my Dave only got 2.5 hours to hunt those sushi ingredients and blow up fake environmentalists!

I am comfortable saying no one should buy the Windows version of the Lenovo Legion Go S, which costs $730 at Best Buy. Even if the performance, battery life, and price weren’t disqualifiers, Windows is a stain on this machine. And like other recent Windows handhelds I’ve tested, it does not reliably go to sleep and wake up again: I woke several mornings to find the system hot with fans spinning, even though I’d pressed the power button the previous evening. I found it uncomfortably warm pulling it out of my bag the other day.

Even if you prefer Windows to SteamOS, you can get notably better performance and far better battery life from the $800 Asus ROG Ally X, which is worth every extra penny, particularly since it doubles as the best Bazzite machine you can buy.

But even if you add Bazzite to the Legion Go S, it’s no Steam Deck, and I’m not sure that’ll change by May. If you’re waiting for a $499 Legion Go S with SteamOS, here’s my advice: just buy a $530 Steam Deck OLED instead.

Agree to Continue: Legion Go S

Every smart device now requires you to agree to a series of terms and conditions before you can use it — contracts that no one actually reads. It’s impossible for us to read and analyze every single one of these agreements. But we started counting exactly how many times you have to hit “agree” to use devices when we review them, since these are agreements most people don’t read and definitely can’t negotiate.

To start using the Legion Go S, you’ll need to agree to the following:

Microsoft Software License Terms: Windows Operating System and Terms of Use
Lenovo Limited Warranty and “Software license agreements”

You can also say “yes” or “no” to the following:

Privacy settings (location, Find My Device, sharing diagnostic data, inking and typing, tailored experience, advertising ID)

That’s two mandatory agreements and six optional agreements. Windows also asks you if you want a variety of software and subscription services during the out-of-box experience.

February 22, 2025

Meta, X approved ads containing violent anti-Muslim, antisemitic hate speech ahead of German election, study finds

Social media giants Meta and X approved ads targeting users in Germany with violent anti-Muslim and anti-Jew hate speech in the run-up to the country’s federal elections, according to new research from Eko, a corporate responsibility nonprofit campaign group.

The group’s researchers tested whether the two platforms’ ad review systems would approve or reject submissions for ads containing hateful and violent messaging targeting minorities ahead of an election where immigration has taken center stage in mainstream political discourse — including ads containing anti-Muslim slurs; calls for immigrants to be imprisoned in concentration camps or to be gassed; and AI-generated imagery of mosques and synagogues being burnt.

Most of the test ads were approved within hours of being submitted for review in mid-February. Germany’s federal elections are set to take place on Sunday, February 23.

Hate speech ads scheduled

Eko said X approved all 10 of the hate speech ads its researchers submitted just days before the federal election is due to take place, while Meta approved half (five ads) for running on Facebook (and potentially also Instagram) — though it rejected the other five.

The reason Meta provided for the five rejections indicated the platform believed there could be risks of political or social sensitivity which might influence voting.

However, the five ads that Meta approved included violent hate speech likening Muslim refugees to a “virus,” “vermin,” or “rodents,” branding Muslim immigrants as “rapists,” and calling for them to be sterilized, burnt, or gassed. Meta also approved an ad calling for synagogues to be torched to “stop the globalist Jewish rat agenda.”

As a sidenote, Eko says none of the AI-generated imagery it used to illustrate the hate speech ads was labeled as artificially generated — yet half of the 10 ads were still approved by Meta, regardless of the company having a policy that requires disclosure of the use of AI imagery for ads about social issues, elections or politics.

X, meanwhile, approved all five of these hateful ads — and a further five that contained similarly violent hate speech targeting Muslims and Jews.

These additional approved ads included messaging attacking “rodent” immigrants that the ad copy claimed are “flooding” the country “to steal our democracy,” and an antisemitic slur which suggested that Jews are lying about climate change in order to destroy European industry and accrue economic power.

The latter ad was combined with AI-generated imagery depicting a group of shadowy men sitting around a table surrounded by stacks of gold bars, with a Star of David on the wall above them — with the visuals also leaning heavily into antisemitic tropes.

Another ad X approved contained a direct attack on the SPD, the center-left party that currently leads Germany’s coalition government, with a bogus claim that the party wants to take in 60 million Muslim refugees from the Middle East, before going on to try to whip up a violent response. X also duly scheduled an ad suggesting “leftists” want “open borders”, and calling for the extermination of Muslims “rapists.”

Elon Musk, the owner of X, has used the social media platform where he has close to 220 million followers to personally intervene in the German election. In a tweet in December, he called for German voters to back the Far Right AfD party to “save Germany.” He has also hosted a livestream with the AfD’s leader, Alice Weidel, on X.

Eko’s researchers disabled all test ads before any that had been approved were scheduled to run to ensure no users of the platform were exposed to the violent hate speech.

It says the tests highlight glaring flaws with the ad platforms’ approach to content moderation. Indeed, in the case of X, it’s not clear whether the platform is doing any moderation of ads, given all 10 violent hate speech ads were quickly approved for display.

The findings also suggest that the ad platforms could be earning revenue as a result of distributing violent hate speech.

EU’s Digital Services Act in the frame

Eko’s tests suggests that neither platform is properly enforcing bans on hate speech they both claim to apply to ad content in their own policies. Furthermore, in the case of Meta, Eko reached the same conclusion after conducting a similar test in 2023 ahead of new EU online governance rules coming in — suggesting the regime has no effect on how it operates.

“Our findings suggest that Meta’s AI-driven ad moderation systems remain fundamentally broken, despite the Digital Services Act (DSA) now being in full effect,” an Eko spokesperson told TechCrunch.

“Rather than strengthening its ad review process or hate speech policies, Meta appears to be backtracking across the board,” they added, pointing to the company’s recent announcement about rolling back moderation and fact-checking policies as a sign of “active regression” that they suggested puts it on a direct collision course with DSA rules on systemic risks.

Eko has submitted its latest findings to the European Commission, which oversees enforcement of key aspects of the DSA on the pair of social media giants. It also said it shared the results with both companies, but neither responded.

The EU has open DSA investigations into Meta and X, which include concerns about election security and illegal content, but the Commission has yet to conclude these proceedings. Though, back in April it said it suspects Meta of inadequate moderation of political ads.

A preliminary decision on a portion of its DSA investigation on X, which was announced in July, included suspicions that the platform is failing to live up to the regulation’s ad transparency rules. However, the full investigation, which kicked off in December 2023, also concerns illegal content risks, and the EU has yet to arrive at any findings on the bulk of the probe well over a year later.

Confirmed breaches of the DSA can attract penalties of up to 6% of global annual turnover, while systemic non-compliance could even lead to regional access to violating platforms being blocked temporarily.

But, for now, the EU is still taking its time to make up its mind on the Meta and X probes so — pending final decisions — any DSA sanctions remain up in the air.

Meanwhile, it’s now just a matter of hours before German voters go to the polls — and a growing body of civil society research suggests that the EU’s flagship online governance regulation has failed to shield the major EU economy’s democratic process from a range of tech-fueled threats.

Earlier this week, Global Witness released the results of tests of X and TikTok’s algorithmic “For You” feeds in Germany, which suggest the platforms are biased in favor of promoting AfD content versus content from other political parties. Civil society researchers have also accused X of blocking data access to prevent them from studying election security risks in the run-up to the German poll — access the DSA is supposed to enable.

“The European Commission has taken important steps by opening DSA investigations into both Meta and X, now we need to see the Commission take strong action to address the concerns raised as part of these investigations,” Eko’s spokesperson also told us.

“Our findings, alongside mounting evidence from other civil society groups, show that Big Tech will not clean up its platforms voluntarily. Meta and X continue to allow illegal hate speech, incitement to violence, and election disinformation to spread at scale, despite their legal obligations under the DSA,” the spokesperson added. (We have withheld the spokesperson’s name to prevent harassment.)

“Regulators must take strong action — both in enforcing the DSA but also for example implementing pre-election mitigation measures. This could include turning off profiling-based recommender systems immediately before elections, and implementing other appropriate ‘break-glass’ measures to prevent algorithmic amplification of borderline content, such as hateful content in the run-up elections.”

The campaign group also warns that the EU is now facing pressure from the Trump administration to soften its approach to regulating Big Tech. “In the current political climate, there’s a real danger that the Commission doesn’t fully enforce these new laws as a concession to the U.S.,” they suggest.

February 22, 2025
Weekly Deals Roundup: Save $200 on the Pixel 9 Pro, $130 on the Galaxy Watch 7, and more

It’s Friday, and the weekend is knocking at the door! You’re likely excited about your plans—maybe hitting a local concert or meeting up with friends. If you prefer staying in, you might be looking forward to binge-watching a favorite sitcom, diving into a fantasy book, or playing Call of Duty: Black Ops 6 on your console.While all the things we mentioned are great for unwinding after a busy week, another exciting option is scoring massive savings on a new phone, tablet, smartwatch, or pair of headphones.

Yep, that’s right! It’s time for PhoneArena’s Weekly Deals Roundup, a quick overview of the best mobile tech offers we found this week. Be sure to act fast and take advantage of the promo that catches your eye, as you never know when these amazing deals might expire. So, let’s not waste time and check out the top deals this week!

Here are the top three deals of the week!

Google Pixel Tablet 256GB: Save $120!

$120 off (24%)

The Pixel Tablet without a charging speaker dock is now on sale for $120 off its price. Thanks to this, you can grab one with 256GB of storage for just under $380. The tablet delivers smooth performance and offers great value. Save while the offer lasts!

Buy at Amazon

Pixel 9 Pro 128GB: Save $200!

$200 off (20%)

Grab the powerful Pixel 9 Pro with 128GB of storage for $200 off its price. The phone delivers incredible performance thanks to its high-end Tensor G4 chipset and 16GB of RAM. Additionally, takes gorgeous photos and comes with a plethora of AI-powered features. Act fast and save today!

Buy at Amazon

Save $130 on the Galaxy Watch 7, 40mm

$169
⁹⁹

$299
⁹⁹

$130 off (43%)

The Galaxy Watch 7 is an epic bargain in its smaller 40mm variant. Currently, Woot lets you buy the timepiece with Bluetooth connectivity in Cream for only $169.99, saving you an epic $130. The smartwatch comes with a 90-day warranty. This promo won’t last for long, so act fast.

Buy at Woot

If you’re looking for an unmissable promo on a capable slate, Amazon’s deal on the Pixel Tablet is definitely worth considering. The retailer has discounted the device by $120, allowing you to grab the 256GB model for just under $380. However, this is the version without the charging speaker dock.Those in the market for a new high-end phone can score the powerful Pixel 9 Pro with 128GB of storage for $200 off. That’s an incredible offer, as this sleek device is among the best smartphones on the market, delivering fast performance with its Tensor G4 chipset and 16GB of RAM.On the other hand, Galaxy users wanting to score a new smartwatch at a fantastic discount can get the 40mm Galaxy Watch 7 for just $169.99 at Woot. That’s a whopping $130 off the watch’s usual price of around $300.

Be sure to check out these unmissable phone offers, too!

Motorola Razr+ (2024): Now a whopping $420 OFF!

$420 off (42%)

The sleek Motorola Razr+ (2024) is now on sale at a bonkers $420 discount, allowing you to score one for just under $580! This is an insanely-good deal, as the phone usually goes for around $1,000. Don’t hesitate, as this bad boy delivers fast performance, takes beautiful photos and is a steal right now!

Buy at Amazon

The Moto G Power 5G (2024) is 40% off at Amazon

$120 off (40%)

The budget Moto G Power 5G (2024) is on sale for $120 off on Amazon, allowing you to grab one for just below the $180 mark. This is a great price, as the phone delivers decent performance and has great battery life. Don’t miss out—score one at a bargain price now!

Buy at Amazon

Google Pixel 8a 128GB: Save $100!

$100 off (20%)

Get the 128GB version of the capable Pixel 8a at a $100 discount on Amazon. The phone boasts top-tier performance thanks to its powerful Tensor G3 chipset. In addition, it takes gorgeous photos, rocking a 64 MP main camera. It’s a true bargain at its current price, so don’t hesitate and save now!

Buy at Amazon

Pixel 7 Pro 512GB: Save $700 at Woot!

$399
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$1099
⁹⁹

$700 off (64%)

Grab the Pixel 7 Pro with 512GB of storage $700 off at Woot and score a unit for just under $400! The phone is worth every penny, offering top-tier performance, a gorgeous display and incredible camera capabilities. Don’t miss out—grab one at a bargain price now!

Buy at Woot

Galaxy S24+ 512GB: Save $271 on Amazon!

$271 off (24%)

Grab the Galaxy S24+ with 512GB of storage at a generous $271 discount at Amazon. The phone offers top-notch performance thanks to its powerful Snapdragon 8 Gen 3 chipset. What’s more, it takes beautiful photos and has great battery life. Don’t miss out and score one at an unbeatable price today!

Buy at Amazon

This week, we have awesome deals on phones from Motorola, Google, and Samsung. The sleek Motorola Razr+ (2024) is an absolute steal at $420 off on Amazon. Those on a budget can score the affordable Moto G Power 5G (2024) at a sweet $120 discount.

Pixel fans can get the Pixel 8a 128GB for $100 off. However, if rocking an older phone isn’t an issue, the Pixel 7 Pro with 512GB of storage is a bargain at a whopping $700 off at Woot.

As for those on team Samsung, they can score the Galaxy S24+ with 512GB of storage at a jaw-dropping $271 discount on Amazon!

Here are a few sweet tablet promos as well

Galaxy Tab S9 FE+ 128GB: Save $150!

$150 off (25%)

Save a whopping $150 on the Galaxy Tab S9 FE+ with 128GB of storage and score one of the best mid-range tablets on the market for just under $450. The tablet offers fast performance thanks to its capable Exynos 1380 chipset. In addition, its 12.4-inch display offers a great watching experience. Act fast and save while this limited-time deal lasts!

Buy at Amazon

Lenovo Tab P12: Save 22% on Amazon!

$80 off (22%)

The Lenovo Tab P12 is discounted by $80 on Amazon and can be yours for just under $280. The slate offers decent performance and features a large screen, making it a top choice for entertainment on a budget. So, act fast and score one at a sweet discount now!

Buy at Amazon

Save $300 on the Galaxy Tab S9+ at Best Buy

$699
⁹⁹

$999
⁹⁹

$300 off (30%)

Looking to buy a brand-new Galaxy Tab S9+ model without breaking the bank? Pick Best Buy’s ongoing sale that lets you save $300 on the 256GB model. The device has been offered at that price for some time, meaning the deal could expire soon.

Buy at BestBuy

The Wi-Fi+cellular iPad 10th Gen is now $100 off!

$100 off (20%)

If you’re looking for an affordable iPad model with 5G on deck, the iPad 10th Gen should be on your radar. The unit in Blue with 64GB is $100 off at Amazon right now, making it a lovely pick.

Buy at Amazon

Microsoft Surface Pro (2024) 16GB/256GB: Save $217!

$217 off (22%)

Get the Microsoft Surface Pro (2024) with a Snapdragon X Plus processor, 16GB of RAM, and 256GB of storage. This tablet is perfect for work and is the one to get if you want a more PC-like experience. Act fast and save!

Buy at Amazon

In addition to awesome phone deals, we have found unmissable offers on tablets from top brands like Samsung, Lenovo, Apple, and Microsoft!

You can save $150 on the Samsung Galaxy Tab S9 FE+ 128GB, making it one of the best mid-range tablets on the market for just under $450.

For those on a budget, the Lenovo Tab P12 is now selling for just under $280, saving you $80. This tablet offers decent performance and a large screen, making it great for entertainment.If you’re looking for a high-end slate at a bargain price, the Samsung Galaxy Tab S9+ 256GB is available for $300 off at Best Buy, bringing the price down to $699.99.

Apple fans can get the LTE-enabled iPad 10th Gen with 64GB of storage for $100 off at Amazon. And for those wanting a workhorse tablet with a PC-like experience, the Microsoft Surface Pro (2024) is now on sale for $217 off. This model comes with a Snapdragon X Plus processor, 16GB of RAM, and 256GB of storage.

Score a stylish smartwatch at a discounted price while you’re at it

Garmin Vivoactive 5: Now $71 off at Amazon

$71 off (24%)

The Garmin Vivoactive 5 in Navy has received its first substantial discount of 2025. At the time of writing, Amazon sells the unit in that particular coating for $71 off, making it a must-have. This is a feature-rich smartwatch, so we encourage you to act quickly and score one for less now!

Buy at Amazon

Galaxy Watch 4 (40mm): Now for just under $100!

$99
⁹⁹

$249
⁹⁹

$150 off (60%)

The Galaxy Watch 4 can now be yours for just under $100, making it an absolute steal. True, it’s an older device, but it still offers a plethora of features and is a top choice for Galaxy users on a budget. Don’t miss out, as this offer likely won’t be available for long!

Buy at Woot

Galaxy Watch Ultra: Save a whopping $230!

$419
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$649
⁹⁹

$230 off (35%)

The best Samsung smartwatch right now, the Galaxy Watch Ultra, is available for a whopping $230 off at Samsung—no trade-in required. Just tap the button below and select the option to purchase the smartwatch without a trade-in once you’re on Samsung.com. Act quickly, though—it would be a shame to miss this chance to save big on the best Galaxy Watch!

Buy at Samsung

Pixel Watch 3 41mm, Wi-Fi: Save $50!

$50 off (14%)

Amazon has knocked $50 off the Wi-Fi model of the Pixel Watch 3. This deal applies to the 41mm variant, but the 45mm version is also available at the same discount—at least for now. Packed with features and offering great value, this smartwatch is a steal, so grab yours while the deal lasts!

Buy at Amazon

If you already have a fancy phone and don’t need a new tablet but are looking for a new smartwatch instead, be sure to take advantage of one or more of this week’s top smartwatch offers.

You can save $71 on the feature-rich Garmin Vivoactive 5 in Navy and score this bad boy at its first major discount of 2025. If you’re on a budget, the Galaxy Watch 4 (40mm) is a steal at just under $100. Despite being an older model, it still offers plenty of features, so don’t be quick to dismiss this deal.

For those seeking the best Samsung smartwatch, the Galaxy Watch Ultra is now $230 off on Samsung.com, and no trade-in is required. On the other hand, Pixel users can score the best Google watch, the Pixel Watch 3, for $50 off on Amazon.

Enhance your listening experience on the cheap with these awesome deals!

Sennheiser CX Plus: 69% off their original price

$54
⁹⁹

$179
⁹⁹

$125 off (69%)

Woot is selling the Sennheiser CX Plus at an unbeatable $125 discount. That returns them to a dirt-cheap price of only $54.99. The promo will only stay for another four days or less, so act fast.

Buy at Woot

Galaxy Buds FE (Graphite): 50% off at Woot

$49
⁹⁹

$99
⁹⁹

$50 off (50%)

Woot sells a brand-new pair of the affordable Galaxy Buds FE for 50% off their original price. That makes them an absolute must-have for Samsung phone users on a tight budget. The wireless earbuds come with a 90-day Woot Limited warranty.

Buy at Woot

Sony WH-1000XM5: Save $74 at Walmart!

$289
⁹⁰

$363
⁹⁹

$74 off (20%)

Get the Sony WH-1000XM5 at Walmart and save $74 in the process. The headphones rank among the best on the market, delivering top-quality sound and incredible ANC. Don’t hesitate and score a pair for just under $290 now!

Buy at Walmart

Sony LinkBuds S: Save 36% at Amazon!

$72 off (36%)

The Sony LinkBuds S are back to their Black Friday 2024 price. You can buy these buddies for 36% off their original price on Amazon. Get a pair and enjoy premium sound and noise cancellation at a discount.

Buy at Amazon

This week, you can score some incredible deals on high-quality earbuds and headphones, enhancing your listening experience on the cheap.

For instance, at Woot, the Sennheiser CX Plus is now available for just $54.99—a jaw-dropping $125 discount that’s too good to miss. Samsung fans can also take advantage of a 50% price cut on the affordable Galaxy Buds FE in Graphite, bringing the price down to $49.99.

Over at Walmart, the top-rated Sony WH-1000XM5 headphones are now $74 off, letting you score these flagship cans for just under $290. And on Amazon, the Sony LinkBuds S with AirPods-level ANC are back to their Black Friday price.

February 22, 2025
4 Windows 11 features that make me regret upgrading

Windows 11 has a lot of great aspects that make it the go-to desktop operating system for many users. But there are times I wish I hadn’t upgraded my PC due to certain features and quirks. While I’ve taken steps to make Windows 11 less annoying, it feels like I’m constantly playing whack-a-mole with nuisances and changes.

Since Windows 10 is losing support soon unless you’re willing to pay extra, I’ve mostly made my peace with the upgrade. But these Windows 11 features sometimes make me wish I could go back to Windows 10.

Related

7 design flaws in Windows 11 Microsoft still hasn’t fixed

What are we waiting for?

4

The overemphasis on Copilot

Not everyone wants to use generative AI

With generative AI being the shiny new toy that many companies have heavily invested in, we’re surrounded by prompts to use AI assistants on various services. This is no different with Copilot, which seems to become more and more integrated with each update.

Now, to be fair, Windows 10 does have Copilot prompts on occasion. When I updated my Windows 10 laptop, I also had the unwelcome addition of Microsoft 365 Copilot. But I was easily able to remove this and the pinned app.

You’re also able to remove Copilot as an app on Windows 11, as well as uninstall Microsoft 365 Copilot. But I haven’t been able to remove it from my search bar, where there’s a Copilot button built in and prompts to ask Copilot things about various topics. For example, as I’m writing this, Microsoft would like me to quiz the AI assistant about Pluto.

There are many reasons why Copilot puts people off of Windows 11. I personally don’t want to share my data and queries with it, plus I don’t want my work to be used to train it further. So it would be great if Microsoft would stop trying to get me to interact with it.

Related

5 reasons I’m never upgrading to Windows 11

As an ardent Windows 10 loyalist, I’m going down with the ship

Windows 10’s Start Menu is far from perfect, but I’ve always found it more intuitive than the redesigned Start Menu on Windows 11. Both have unnecessary elements — Windows 10 includes a Play and explore section that just pushes games and Microsoft services I’m not interested in. But the primary view is still a list of my most used apps and apps in alphabetical order.

On Windows 11, the Start Menu most prominently features a set of default Pinned apps. None of these apps are actually based on what I use the most, but are rather a series of Microsoft services and games. It even shows me LinkedIn and Clipchamp even though I have never opened either app. Instead of a list of my most used apps, it includes the ones most recently installed and a series of recent files. I’d much rather have a list of my apps that I can scroll through.

It feels like overall the Start Menu on Windows 11 has become a lot less useful and much less user-oriented. If you want it to work for you, you’ll need to customize the various items or settle for the Microsoft-focused apps and services by default.

Related

5 ways Windows has gotten worse

Windows has been in a difficult place for a while now, and while it’s improved in some ways, in others it’s gone seriously downhill

It’s easier to just disable it to avoid distractions

For a long time, the taskbar widget actually escaped my notice. But one day I spotted the day’s temperature and weather. What made me really notice it is that it showed the temperature in Fahrenheit, which I’d argue is only useful to those living in the US. It’s when I decided to try to change the temperature setting that I realized there was an entire, unwieldy mix of tools — most of which were irrelevant to me. I changed the temperature to Celsius, then tried to ignore the rest of the widget. But as if encouraged by my one-time interaction, the widget started switching to sports scores and financial information.

Now, I would give Microsoft the benefit of the doubt and say that it maybe didn’t have enough data about my interests to show a useful set of information. But even without signing into the widget, it was linked to my Microsoft account. It even has my location based on my IP address. So even with the data already linked to me, the widget was just not useful. It showed me a general mix of news on topics and sources I don’t follow. It also showed me earnings reports for companies I’ve never heard of.

Related

I might switch to macOS permanently if these 7 things aren’t fixed about Windows

I’ve long been a Windows user, but it might just be time for a change.

Luckily, you can customize the widgets and remove the ones that aren’t useful. But it feels like there’s a trend with Windows 11, like with the Start Menu, where you have to dedicate time to reorganizing a feature that is not useful by default. If you don’t invest this time, you’re stuck with distracting text popping up on your taskbar every few minutes.

I managed to customize it somewhat, removing useless widgets and switching off notifications. But I couldn’t remove the MSN feed of news and videos that were the most annoying part of the experience. In the end, I just ended up disabling the entire widget in my taskbar settings.

1

The constant upselling of Microsoft services

No, I don’t want to buy more OneDrive storage

Lately, when I use Windows 11, it feels like the OS is constantly trying to sell me something. I think that a major factor in this is that while I was able to set up Windows 10 using a local account, Windows 11 is linked to my Microsoft account. The upselling started off relatively innocuous, like notifications that I should enable OneDrive. But once I enabled OneDrive, the notifications switched to telling me to upgrade my storage (even though I have barely anything synced to OneDrive).

I recently also tried Microsoft 365 (now known as Microsoft 365 Copilot), mostly to check if a more recent version of Microsoft Word would help me with a file that was not working with Microsoft Word 2013. When my trial was over, I found that Windows would always open the new version of Word and prompt me to subscribe to 365. I almost thought that my 2013 version of the Office suite had been uninstalled because it was no longer listed among the available apps to open documents with.

I was able to restore the functionality of Office 2013, otherwise I would have switched to a free Microsoft Office alternative. But it feels like only a matter of time before Windows 11 tries to sell me something else.

Related

8 tools that will change how you use Windows

Your PC won’t be the same after this

Windows 11 makes me feel like I’m fighting with the OS

Over the years, I’ve usually been unfazed by changes between Microsoft’s Windows versions, but increasingly it feels like I have to fight with my OS to get it to provide me with useful, basic features. I don’t want to have to disable a bunch of features just to stop getting pinged by annoying notifications and recommendations. Unfortunately, Microsoft seems to be leaning into these annoying features with Windows 11, and every time I update it I have to worry about what annoying functionality or rebrand the company might introduce next.

February 21, 2025

Advanced Data Protection – how it makes your iCloud data more secure [Video]

By default, iCloud data is secure while in transit. This data is stored in an encrypted format, while the encryption keys are housed in Apple data centers. 15 particularly sensitive data types, like passwords, Health data, and Journal data, use end-to-end encryption as standard. This sensitive data is encrypted with keys derived from your devices and device passcode, which are only accessible by the end user, and thus this data remains secure even in the case of a data breach in the cloud.

Advanced Data Protection, which is opt-in, provides end-to-end encryption for 10 additional iCloud data categories like Photos, Notes, and Reminders, meaning that Apple no longer possesses the keys to decrypt these categories as well.

It’s been couple of years since Advanced Data Protection rolled out. Are you using it? If not, should you consider using it? In this full tutorial and video walkthrough, I discuss what Advanced Data Protection is, how to enable it, and best practices for protecting your precious data. Be sure to subscribe to 9to5Mac on YouTube for more in-depth video walkthroughs.

Video: iOS Advanced Data Protection for iCloud explained

Subscribe to 9to5Mac on YouTube for more videos

What is Advanced Data Protection?

Standard Data Protection includes end-to-end encryption for 15 data types, including Passwords and Keychain data, Health data, Home data, etc. Advanced Data Protection offers this same type of protection for an additional 10 data types stored in iCloud, bringing the total to 25 end-to-end encrypted iCloud data categories. Here’s a look at what both Standard and Advance Data Protection include:

Standard Data Protection includes…	Advanced Data Protection adds…
Passwords and Keychain	iCloud Backups (Device and Messages)
Health data	iCloud Drive
Journal data	Photos
Home data	Notes
Messages in iCloud	Reminders
Payment information	Safari Bookmarks
Apple Card transactions	Siri Shortcuts
Maps	Voice Memo
QuickType Keyboard learned vocabulary	Wallet Passes
Safari	Freeform
Screen Time
Siri information
Wi-Fi passwords
W1 and H1 Bluetooth keys
Memoji

Of course, there exist categories that cannot be protected using end-to-end encryption due to the nature of the data. For example, iCloud Mail must communicate and interoperate with the global email system as a whole, and Contacts and Calendars are built on standards that do not support end-to-end encryption.

One of the most notable new changes that Advanced Data Protection brings to the table is the end-to-end encryption of iCloud Backups. This is notable because, prior to Advanced Data Protection, Apple could access your data, in the case of a court ordered subpoena, via the iCloud backups stored on its servers.

This was particularly useful for law enforcement investigations, because although iMessage on the iPhone has long been protected end-to-end via Standard Data Protection, messages data stored in iCloud Backups served as a workaround or loophole. With Advanced Data Protection enabled, even Messages data stored in iCloud Backups and via Messages Backups are now inaccessible by Apple, because the iCloud Backup itself is now end-to-end encrypted.

You are responsible for data recovery…

With Advanced Data Protection enabled, Apple no longer has access to decryption keys for your Photos, Notes, Reminders, iCloud Backups, etc. Hence, If you lose access to your account, only you can recover this data by using your device passcode or password, a recovery contact, or a recovery key. Along with setting up one or more trusted recovery contacts, it’s important that you print your 28-character recovery key on something like a physical hardware wallet that can be engraved with your recovery key and can’t be easily damaged or lost.

Before enabling Advanced Data Protection, you’ll be prompted to remove any devices from your iCloud account running older versions of software (anything below iOS 16.2 and macOS 13.1). While Advanced Data Protection is enabled for your iCloud account, you won’t be able to sign in to your account using your Apple ID for devices running older software versions. You’ll need to update the software on those devices first, or disable Advanced Data Protection, before they’re able to be used with your iCloud account.

Once Advanced Data Protection is enabled, it is enabled for all devices linked to your iCloud account.

Advanced Data Protection prerequisites

Before enabling Advanced Data Protection for iCloud, ensure all of the following are true:

Your Apple ID has two-factor authentication enabled.
A passcode/password is enabled for your device.
You’re running the latest version of software on all of your devices:
- iPhone with iOS 16.2 or later
- iPad with iPadOS 16.2 or later
- Mac with macOS 13.1 or later
- Apple Watch with watchOS 9.2 or later
- Apple TV with tvOS 16.2 or later
- HomePod with software version 16.2 or later
- Windows computer with iCloud for Windows 14.1 or later
You have at least one account recovery key and/or recovery contact set. The Advanced Data Protection setup will prompt you to do this if you have not.
You cannot enable Advanced Data Protection on new device until a time threshold elapses. You’ll need to setup Advanced Data Protection on an older device instead.

Older devices that can’t be updated to iOS 16.2 or later must be removed from iCloud before enabling Advanced Data Protection

Setting up Account Recovery

Add Recovery Contact

Your recovery contact will never be able to access your data, but will be able to generate a code from their Apple device to help you regain access to your data.

A recovery contact should be a friend or family member over the age of 13 that you trust. Your recovery contact must have an Apple Device. If you forget your password or passcode, you can contact your recovery contact in person or by phone to help.

Step 1: Go to Settings → → Sign-In & Security → Recovery Contacts.

Step 2: Tap Add Recovery Contact and you’ll be asked to verify with Face ID or device passcode.

Step 3: iOS will suggest contacts from your family sharing list if applicable, but you can choose someone else from your contacts as well. Select a contact and then tap the Next button in the upper right-hand corner.

Step 4: You’ll next be prompted to let your contact know that you’ve added them as a recovery contact. You can send the canned message that Apple provides by tapping the Send button at the bottom of the screen, or customize the message by tapping Edit Message before sending.

Step 5: After the recipient receives the message, they’ll need to tap the Account Recovery Contact link and tap the Accept button to confirm. Whether or not the user accepts or declines, the requester will be notified.

Add Recovery Key

Step 1: Go to Settings → → Password & Security → Recovery Key.

Step 2: Tap Recovery Key → Turn On Recovery Key → Use Recovery Key.

Step 3: Enter your iPhone’s passcode to turn on the recovery key.

Step 4: Your 28-alphanumeric recovery key will now be displayed. Print a copy or write down your recovery key. I suggest employing a cold storage solution for more secure and permanent safekeeping.

Step 5: Tap Continue, and you’ll be prompted to enter the 28-digit recovery key to prove that you wrote it down correctly. Tap Next once the key is entered.

Step 6: If the recovery key was entered correctly, you’ll be taken back to the Sign-In & Security page with the Recovery key parameter set to On. If you choose to ever create a new recovery key because you lost it or someone else knows it, the new key will replace the old key.

How to enable Advanced Data Protection

Step 1: On your iPhone or iPad go to Settings → → iCloud.

Step 2: Scroll down and tap the Advanced Data Protection panel, then tap Turn on Advanced Data Protection.

Step 3: You’ll see a splash screen indicating that you will be responsible for data recovery. Tap the Review Recovery Methods button to review the recovery options you’ve established, otherwise tap Set Up Account Recovery if you’ve yet to establish recovery options and refer to the Setting up Account Recovery section above.

Step 4: If you have a recovery contact established, and you’re satisfied with it, tap the Contacts Up to Date button to proceed. Otherwise, you can tap Update Recovery Contacts.

Step 5: Next, assuming you have one set up as instructed above, you’ll be asked to verify your 28-character recovery key to continue. Enter your recovery key and tap the Next button in the upper right-hand corner.

Step 6: Enter your device’s passcode to enable Advanced Data Protection. Tap the Done button once you get the Advanced Data Protection is On confirmation page.

How to disable Advanced Data Protection

Step 1: On your iPhone or iPad go to Settings → → iCloud.

Step 2: Scroll down and tap the Advanced Data Protection panel, then tap Turn Off Advanced Data Protection.

Step 3: Tap Turn Off and then enter your iPhone’s passcode to verify.

Your device will securely upload the needed encryption keys to Apple’s servers and Advanced Data Protection will be disabled. Your Account Recovery options will be maintained, unless modified.

9to5Mac’s Take

Advanced Data Protection is simply a way to enable end-to-end encryption across more iCloud data types, bringing the total number of data types to 25. If you’re looking for a way to increase the security of the data stored in your iCloud account this is a great free way to do it. Just remember that you take on additional responsibility for your data, since Apple no longer houses the decryption keys when Advanced Data Protection enabled. For many people, that’s a small price to pay for the added security of end-to-end encryption.

Are you currently using advanced data protection? Why or why not? Sound off down below in the comments with your thoughts.

FTC: We use income earning auto affiliate links. More.

February 21, 2025

The Best Projector Deals | PCMag

With the Academy Awards drawing near, you might want to catch up on all the nominees. Chances are your local multiplex won’t be showing them, so if you want to catch The Substance and the rest of the Oscar picks in theater-quality screen size, it’s time to upgrade to a home projection system. Digital projectors are delivering better picture quality than ever, with 4K resolution, flicker-free motion and clear, accurate color. We’re seeing big discounts on some of our favorite digital projectors as we come out of Super Bowl time and head toward award season. (Plus, certain projectors are great for other things, too, like gaming, all year around.)

If you haven’t sat down with a digital projector recently, prepare to be dazzled at how good their image quality has become. Whether you’re interested in a high-end model with vivid colors and sharp contrast that’s fast enough for console gaming, or something more affordable and portable with slightly diminished specs, major brands have high-quality projectors available at deep discounts. Here are the best projector deals we can see in February.

Let’s start our offers off with a solid $70 price cut on a crossover projector that works for both home entertainment and work presentations. In our review, contributing editor M. David Stone praised the EpiqVision Flex’s “high brightness and good color accuracy,” noting that its 2,700-ANSI-lumen rating makes it easily viewable even in lit rooms. The three-LCD chip image array paired with a traditional bulb helps minimize the artifacts other budget projectors suffer from. While it doesn’t deliver the kind of contrast and quality that home theater cinephiles demand, at this price, it’s a solid option for budget shoppers looking to add a projector to their arsenal.

With a built-in battery, this is a capable portable projector at a nice discount that’ll only last while Best Buy has it in stock. You can see how it compares to the other models on our list of the best portable projectors, but the specs on the Ion are solid: 1,280-by-720 video resolution with 100 ANSI lumen brightness, coupled with two hours of battery life for video and 10 hours for audio. The built-in 70-watt speakers feature dual 3-inch drivers and 1.5-inch tweeters for surprisingly robust sound. You can even use it as a karaoke machine with two included 1/4-inch mic inputs.

It’s pricey, but the picture quality of the Vista T4 will dazzle you. We reviewed this model, praising its cutting-edge triple-laser design that delivers incredible color quality and sharpness. It’s a heavyweight unit, clocking in at over 37 pounds, so it’s best suited for a permanent place in your home theater. With a maximum image size of 150 inches on the diagonal, it’ll easily dominate whatever room you install it in. It even supports 3D images (glasses not included). An included 60-watt Dolby Audio speaker gives you cinema-quality sound, and a $1,000 discount is nothing to sneeze at.

For a well-rounded projector that works well for home entertainment and office presentations, the Miroir M700S is hard to beat. While it doesn’t push the envelope on resolution, this projector features a built-in rechargable battery with up to two hours of playback time. It’s portable, it’s easy to set up, and it’s decent on audio with a built-in 3-watt speaker. The M700S is also built to last, with an estimated 20,000 hours of usage life in Normal Mode. That’s enough to watch the Lord of the Rings trilogy (extended editions) 1,652 times. Compare it against our list of the best projectors before you buy.

We gave this tiny but potent projector an Editors’ Choice award in our review, noting that the Anker Nebula Capsule 3 was “easy to set up, delivers impressive image quality, and even doubles as a Bluetooth speaker.” With its built-in Android TV 11 functionality, you don’t even need to hook it up to a computer to stream your content through it, and the excellent color accuracy and contrast make it ideal for all kinds of video. Sound quality is quite good for the size as well, and a $100 price drop is always awesome.

Recommended by Our Editors

This somewhat pricey LG projector earns its keep with exceptional 4K resolution and surprising brightness in a pint-size package. The retro-styled housing is just five inches high and weighs 3 pounds, making it easy to set up anywhere. Able to project up to a 120-inch maximum screen size, the tri-color RGB laser provides exceptional contrast, and the unit delivers realistic, vibrant hues. LG’s built-in WebOS platform gives you native access to streaming services, and you can also play content through Apple AirPlay, USB-C, or the HDMI input. Right now, Amazon has it for 14% off.

In terms of image quality, this portable projector from GPX isn’t going to top the charts. It delivers 1,280-by-720 resolution with 1000 ANSI lumens of brightness, with a maximum screen size of 150 feet on the diagonal. That’s all perfectly acceptable, especially for a model in this price range. You can run input through HDMI or USB, or you can stream video from a MicroSD card. It even has a built-in DVD player so you can enjoy your old physical media. There’s no built-in speaker, but the GPX has a Bluetooth transmitter for easy audio. Right now, it’s $53 off. See how competing models fare on our list of the best portable projectors.

More Projector Deals

*Deals are selected by our commerce team

FAQ

What Are the Different Types of Projectors?

Digital projectors create images using three primary types of technology. The most basic, DLP (Digital Light Processing), has an array of minute mirrors inside the lens to transform white light into other colors. 3LCD projectors use a trio of LCD screens, one for each primary subtractive color. LCoS (Liquid Crystal on Silicon) uses an active-matrix display on a silicon backplate for the most accurate colors, although it is significantly more expensive.

What Should I Look for in a Projector?

The two most important metrics for a projector are brightness and resolution. Brightness is measured in lumens, with a larger number being better. However, projectors typically have two distinct brightness numbers, one for white light and one for color. Images may appear dull if the color rating is lower than the pure white rating. Resolution determines the number of pixels the projector uses to create the image. 1080p high definition is the most common. For best results, match your projector resolution to the image source.

Do I Need a Screen for My Projector?

The projector deals above don’t come with an included screen. In general, although you can cast an image from a projector on any wall or surface, it’s not going to look as good as if you use a non-reflective white screen designed for that purpose. There are many different types of screens on the market, including some that are inflatable for easy setup and storage. While they’re not strictly required, they definitely make your viewing experience better. Here’s our handy guide for how to choose the right screen for your projector.

What Is the Best and Cheapest Projector?

We’ve put together a robust rundown of the best projectors on the consumer market, covering a wide range of uses, from large units to anchor a home theater to portable models for movies on the go. Overall, we rate the Vankyo Performance V700W as the best all-around cheap projector. It’s fast enough for casual gaming and bright enough for movies, and it even has surprisingly decent built-in speakers. In our review, our expert said that it was “a highly capable choice for home use,” and it often sees price drops.

Why Are Mini Projectors So Cheap?

Hardware size keeps shrinking in the projector market. In our rundown of the best portable projectors, we examine why these mini-projectors are often so cheap. The most typical compromise that’s made in a small projector is bulb brightness.

Pico-size models, which fit in a pocket, usually cap out at around 100 ANSI lumens of brightness, which can get washed out in ambient light. Image resolution is also often lower than you’d get in a more expensive model. 720p is more common among mini projectors. That said, they’re more than enough for most casual uses.

How Do We Test Projectors?

The short answer? Thoroughly. When we test projectors, be they data projectors, home entertainment projectors, or home theater projectors, we perform both video and data tests, as well as give the units a 30-minute warm-up time while running through preliminary setup steps. And that’s just the start! Dive into any of our reviews to see how deep we go.

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About K. Thor Jensen

Contributing Writer

K. Thor Jensen is a writer and cartoonist living in the Pacific Northwest. He has contributed to dozens of prestigious outlets, including PCMag, Tested, Clickhole, and Newsweek. His second graphic novel, Cloud Stories, was released in 2017.

Read K. Thor’s full bio

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February 20, 2025
I tested Grado’s most expensive headphones and the quality is out of this world

Grado Labs reckons its founder Joseph Grado invented the whole idea of the properly high-end headphone when he developed and launched the Signature HP1 over 30 years ago.

In recognition both of this feat and of what would have been Joseph’s 100th birthday, the company has launched these Signature HP100 SE headphones – and it promises a contemporary version of a classic, with fresh design elements at every stage.

Promises, promises. So can the Signature HP100 SE blaze the sort of trail their illustrious predecessors managed and be considered among the best wired headphones in existence?

How much do the Grado Signature HP100 SE cost?

The Grado Signature HP100 SE wired over-ear open-backed headphones launched in late November 2024. In the United Kingdom they currently sell for £2795. In the company’s native United States they’re a slightly less punchy $2495. Australia, meanwhile, sees them cost around AU$3999 – if you can find a pair, anyway.

I hardly need to say that this is a lot of money for a pair of hard-wired, over-ear, open-backed headphones – but equally, the Grado are far from short of competition. Similarly priced alternatives from the likes of Austrian Audio, Final Audio, Focal and Yamaha are available – and that’s just for starters…

What’s special about Grado’s Signature HP100 SE?

(Image credit: Future)

For the first time, here’s a pair of Grado headphones that features detachable cables. This is unarguably a good thing, especially when you consider the business end of the cable here features a 6.3mm unbalanced connection.

Grado is making vague noises about alternative cables with different terminations, but details as to when these might be available and what they might cost are extremely thin on the ground. Each earcup requires wiring, so the other end of the cable splits into ‘left’ and ‘right’ four-pin mini-XLR connections.

The cable feeds a pair of newly minted, completely redesigned speaker drivers. Measuring 52mm across, each cone is of paper composite construction and is backed by a rare earth alloy high-flux magnetic circuit and new voice coil made from copper-plated aluminium.

This arrangement not only results in a claimed frequency response of a touch over 3Hz to more than 51kHz, but is designed to produce optimal dynamic and transient response, spacious and well-defined soundstaging, and low distortion combined with high refinement. Which all looks very good when it’s written down, doesn’t it?

How does the Grado Signature HP100 SE sound?

(Image credit: Future)

Because the HP100 SE have a 6.3mm unbalanced termination, they’re one of the few pairs of wired headphones I’ve tested lately that can’t be connected to my FiiO M15S digital audio player. Still, wiring them to an iFi iDSD Diablo 2 headphone amplifier that’s joined to an Apple MacBook Pro loaded with Colibri software isn’t a bad alternative.

And with some genuinely high-resolution content playing (thank you, Colibri, not Apple), the little niggles about materials and perceived value go all the way out of the window. The Grado Signature HP100 SE are a thrillingly complete listen.

From the deep, textured, and straight-edged lowest frequencies to the shining, substantial and detailed highest, and at every point in between, the Grado are balanced, insightful and convincingly musical performers. Their tonal balance is carefully neutral, their frequency response completely smooth and even. No matter the sort of music you’re listening to, no matter its source, the HP100 SE deliver it in confidently unified and utterly convincing fashion.

They hit with respectable determination at the bottom of the frequency range, but these headphones are not mindless thumpers. Bass sounds are textured and varied, with plenty of light and shade revealed – and the Grado control the bottom end with such authority that rhythmic expression is always just somehow correct. Languid, hectic, club-footed… it doesn’t matter the nature of the music, the HP100 SE communicate its rhythm in the most persuasive manner.

(Image credit: Future)

The midrange is lavishly detailed, too, and the idea that you’re not getting a complete description of a singer’s technique, attitude and intention is fanciful. There’s just as much information loaded onto the top of the frequency range, too, and the brilliance of the treble reproduction is nicely balanced against a tangible sensation of substance. At every turn, no detail is too fleeting or too minor to elude the Grado – and they do a spectacular job of putting even the most transient occurrences in a recording into proper context.

Best of all, though, is the fact that this forensic attitude is not at the expense of engagement or excitement. Yes, the HP100 SE can peer deep into a recording and let you know exactly what’s what – but their musicality, their energy and the vibrant nature of their reproduction leaves you in no doubt that, first and foremost, music is entertainment.

What else? Well, there’s an absolute bucket-load of dynamism available – and in every sense. So if the orchestra shifts from ‘single contemplative woodwind instrument’ to ‘everyone trying to outdo everyone else at the climax’, the distance the Grado can put between these two positions is prodigious. And when that single woodwind is playing, the harmonic variations are identified in an almost casual manner.

Basically, the Grado Signature HP100 SE have, in performance terms, what sportsfolk like to call ‘an all-court game’. On a pound-for-pound basis, they’re among the very best headphones around.

What’s the HP100 SE’s design all about though?

(Image credit: Future)

Some of the Signature HP100 SE design is a departure for Grado. At a glance, though, you’d be hard-pressed to identify exactly what these design changes are – because these headphones look very much like Grado business as usual, for better and for worse.

The housings around the edge of the earcups are made of individually milled, treated aluminium – they’re in a finish called ‘space grey’, and are engraved with some branding and the model name.

The headband features 50% more padding than previous Grado models – that’s not to say it’s especially generously padded, you understand. Still, a 50% increase in comfort is not to be sniffed at. And the cable is of a softer, but no less durable, braided finish than previous Grado products, and promises better flexibility and lower weight – but then it would have been difficult to find a less flexible, heavier cable in all of headphone-land than the one supplied with previous high-end Grado designs.

(Image credit: Future)

Otherwise, there’s not a lot to differentiate the Signature HP100 SE from Grado’s older premium models. They arrived fitted with the big, raw foam ‘G’ cushion earpads – they’re eminently fit for purpose, but hardly the last word in luxury – and a pair of the smaller ‘F’ cushions is supplied in the packaging. The idea is to achieve your preferred sonic balance, says Grado, but it also means you’re offered the choice between ‘too much earpad’ and ‘not quite enough earpad’.

Headband adjustment is achieved using the long-serving ‘friction pole’ arrangement. It’s perfectly adequate in the way it functions – although the Signature HP100 SE are likely to prove too large for the smaller-headed among us – but there’s no denying that it’s rather agricultural and certainly not the sort of methodology you might be expecting from a pair of headphones costing the thick end of three grand. Still, a bit of cachet is clawed back by the fact the Signature HP100 SE are assembled by hand at the Grado facility in Brooklyn.

Grado Signature HP100 SE review: Verdict

(Image credit: Future)

If an appraisal of a pair of headphones began and ended with the way they sound, the HP100 SE would already have taken their seat at the top table.

But there’s more to it than audio performance when you’re contemplating spending this sort of money on headphones, and where the peripherals are concerned the Grado are on slightly shakier ground.

Still, I can’t emphasise enough that the Grado sound uncomplicatedly brilliant – you’ll just need to wrap that up in the context of pride of ownership and perceived value.

Also consider

You can spend considerably less than this on a pair of Meze Audio Liric 2 and get yourself a pair of great-sounding headphones that feel (and smell) almost as good as they sound.

Or you could nudge a little closer to Signature HP100 SE money and get yourself a pair of Austrian Audio The Composer – again, great sound and no compromise where materials or perceived value is concerned.

The same is true of the Focal Stellia: excellent sound, a very agreeable product in visual and tactile terms. Different sounding to the Grado, certainly, but not necessarily ‘better’ – depending on your preferences.

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