We all knew this day would come. Razer has spent the last decade spreading its glowing tendrils into every conceivable corner of the tech world, putting colorful lights on everything from mousepads to beverage coasters. A fully illuminated gaming chair was always a matter of when, not if.

Enter the Razer Soma Chroma, announced on June 25th. It is a product that answers a question absolutely nobody was asking, yet it manages to be completely awesome in execution. Is a neon-soaked headrest necessary to hit your headshots in Valorant? Not even slightly. Is it a hilarious, beautifully built piece of functional performance art? Absolutely.

While the minimalist crowd might scoff at the pure absurdity of a glowing chair, it is exactly this kind of unhinged commitment to a design identity that keeps me in this game. I love to see companies take genuine risks and lean heavily into who they are, and Razer did not blink here.

Razer had no input, nor did it see the contents of this review, prior to publication.

The Evil Throne Visual Aesthetic

Setting up the Soma Chroma is an absolute breeze. From cracking open the massive cardboard box to actually parking my rear end in the seat, the entire assembly process took me less than 10 minutes. The parts clear out easily, the bolts line up beautifully, and the 6 cm PU caster wheels pop right into the powder-coated steel base without throwing a tantrum. Once assembled, those wheels roll smoothly across both hard floors and rugs alike without any annoying stuttering.

When you finally stand back and look at it, the visual payoff is immediate. The standout feature is the pair of prominent RGB wings framing the headrest area.

Sitting in this chair makes you feel like an antagonist plotting world domination while waiting for your casual matchmaking lobby to fill up. As you can see in the above photos, the lighting strip is perfectly uniform, incredibly bright, and creates a spectacular glow that looks brilliant on a stream camera or reflecting off a dark wall.

Comfort for the Long Haul

Beyond the light show, a chair actually needs to work as a piece of furniture. I spent the last 10 days using the Soma Chroma as my daily driver, logging a punishing 8 hours a day for multiple days, and my back has been perfectly happy.

Razer opted for a dual-density cold-cured foam setup for the cushion. There is a noticeably softer outer layer that immediately contours to your body when you sit down, which sits directly on top of a much firmer base layer that keeps the chair from bottoming out over long sessions. The built-in ergonomic lumbar arch provides great passive support to your lower spine, encouraging a healthy posture without requiring constant manual adjustments.

Instead of the premium leatherette styling found on the Iskur line, the Soma Chroma utilizes a soft cloth fabric upholstery. You can see the distinct paneled layout of the fabric seat base. The material feels cozy, gentle, and broken-in right out of the box, though it does tend to collect a bit of back heat.

On particularly warm summer days, you might find yourself wishing for a bit more ventilation. It's also a magnet for pet hair, if you have furry friends as I do.

My biggest critique lands squarely on the armrests. The chair features basic 2D armrests that only allow for height adjustments and generic inward or outward angling. If you are moving over from a high-end chair with 3D or 4D armrests, the lack of forward, backward, or lateral sliding movements feels like an unfortunate omission on a $499.99 piece of hardware.

Controlling the Light Show

Connecting the chair to your PC is as familiar as any other Razer peripheral. You can use Bluetooth for a quick mobile hookup, or plug in the included 2.4GHz wireless USB Type-A dongle for a low-latency connection to your rig.

Once connected, the Synapse software gives you complete control over the 16.8 million colors. You can easily adjust the overall brightness slider, toggle power-saving sleep timers to dim the lights during inactivity, or launch Chroma Studio to synchronize your seating with game-reactive profiles.

You can see in the photo below how you can use multiple colors at once and use preset motion settings like Ripple, Starlight, Reactive, or Static to give the effect you want. In that photo, I went with Windows Central's colors, which is fun. Most of my photos here are static, simply because having Ripple or Wave enabled, which looks awesome, may be distracting if you're on a professional web call versus streaming on Twitch.

If you already own other hardware like my just-reviewed Seiren V3 Pro microphone, the Huntsman V3 Pro TKL, or the ultra-premium Huntsman Signature Edition, the ability to sync your entire room's theme together creates an incredibly cohesive ecosystem.

If you prefer to adjust things on the fly without minimizing your game, there is a physical control panel stitched directly into the fabric on the top of the headrest. The buttons are clicky and responsive, allowing you to turn the RGB on or off, cycle through effects, and tweak brightness.

The comedy here is that you cannot actually see or easily reach these buttons blindly while sitting down. You have to get up out of the chair to make physical adjustments, making Razer Synapse the vastly superior option for mid-game tweaks.

Powering Your RGB

Because dangling a long power cable off a spinning, rolling desk chair is an absolute recipe for disaster, Razer designed the Soma Chroma to run completely wirelessly via a clever hidden feature. There is a dedicated zipper pocket built directly into the rear of the seat base. This pocket allows you to tuck away a standard USB Type-C power bank (not included), keeping your setup clean and cord-free.

If you absolutely despise dealing with batteries, you can buy a Razer Type-C extension cable separately for about $19.99 on Amazon to plug the chair straight into a wall outlet. This gives you an always-on light show, but it obviously creates a massive trip hazard if you like to spin around or roll across your room.

Fortunately, running it wirelessly is shockingly viable. During my 10 days of evaluation, I hooked the chair up to a standard 49.6WHr battery pack. After two full, continuous workdays consisting of 16 total hours of use with the RGB strips cranked to absolute maximum brightness, the battery pack was only down by roughly 50%. That means you can easily expect a massive 30-plus hours of glorious neon illumination before you ever need to think about pulling the battery pack out to recharge it.

Missing Perks and Future Upgrades

It is worth noting that the standard Soma Chroma does not feature any internal haptic feedback. If you want your seat to rumble alongside your games, you will need to buy an additional add-on pad like the recently reviewed Razer Freyja cushion.

Knowing Razer's historic release patterns, I am completely confident that we will eventually see a premium Soma Chroma "Pro" down the line that integrates both the fancy lighting strips and full-body haptic motors into a single package. When that inevitably happens, it will likely cost a small fortune, which makes the $499.99 entry fee for this model feel relatively reasonable for the wild novelty and comfort it brings to the table.

Razer Soma Chroma review: My final thoughts

✅ You should buy this if ...

• You want peak gamer aesthetic (or like fun).
• You want a solid, comfortable gaming chair
• You already have a lot of Razer accessories to pair with it

❌ You should not buy this if ...

• You work in an office, or need something more professional
• You prefer leatherette materials
• You don't want to charge/power yet-another-accessory

The Razer Soma Chroma is an absolute blast of a gaming chair. It takes a ridiculous concept and executes it with high-quality materials, stable wireless connectivity, and genuine ergonomic support. It might not be a necessary upgrade for the casual office worker, but for the enthusiast who wants to lean completely into the ultimate battlestation aesthetic, it delivers exactly what it promises.

• Back to the top ⤴

I have reviewed a mountain of Xbox controllers in my time, and it's getting increasingly rare that something truly fresh comes across my desk. That's why I was pleasantly surprised with Flydigi's first Xbox licensed option, dubbed the Vader 5S.

I haven't used a Flydigi product before, so I wasn't exactly sure what to expect. And I have to admit, I wasn't exactly impressed with the device at first glance.

The controller's gold accents aren't my cup of tea, but the spec sheet makes the design choices much easier to overlook. Is it among the best Xbox controllers you can get? Let's take a look.

Flydigi Vader 5S: Specs and features

The Flydigi Vader 5S has some really impressive specs on paper, and yes, while it is wired, those who don't mind that aspect of it have a lot to enjoy here.

Hall Effect sticks (or TMR) have become a must for me in 2026, so it's good they've ticked off that box. The Xbox Elite controller I purchased only last year has already started to drift, annoyingly (although there are new ways to fix Xbox controller stick drift emerging over time). I sorely hope every Xbox controller being made now and in the future carries Hall Effect or above.

Additionally, we have a mountain of buttons to configure here, which you can do via Flydigi's Space Station for Xbox app. There are two buttons on the reverse, an additional two on the front plate, and two extra bumpers across the top as well.

It has all the standard Xbox buttons on top, including the standard ABXY and the Xbox share button, view, menu, and nexus buttons. Rumors have it that Xbox is adding C and Z buttons as standard for developers to leverage, so Flydigi is well-positioned for the future as well.

We have vibration motors in both the controller and in the triggers, as well as two-stage trigger locks, a 3.5mm audio jack with mute shortcut buttons, and a lengthy braided cable in the box.

The app itself is capable, giving you custom profiles that you can switch out on the fly. You can tailor the RGB light bar across the bottom, configure the buttons to your liking, and set up response curves and things like that.

The best feature here, though, has to be the customizable tension rings. Around each thumbstick is a steel dial that can be turned to increase or decrease motion tension. So, say for example you're playing Call of Duty and want to have a large degree of control over your aiming, you could ramp up the tension on the stick while also increasing the sensitivity in-game, allowing you to make more precise adjustments to your crosshairs.

On the flip side, if you were playing a non-hitscan hero in Overwatch, you could lower the tension to give you a more rapid turning circle for heroes that don't need precision aiming, like Moira or Reinhardt.

It would take some practice, but it would offer some clear advantages for those willing to min-max their playstyle. It's a really cool feature.

Flydigi Vader 5S: Ergonomics and design

You'll be pleased to hear the controller is also fantastic in the hand. It's actually one of the best-feeling controllers I've used, and the shoulder button designs in particular surpass Microsoft's home-grown best.

The buttons and d-pad all have a pleasant and clicky actuation, which also feels great, and the paddles on the back also retain good positioning.

My gripes about the controller all pertain to cosmetics, which is minor ultimately in the grand scheme of things, but if you are someone who takes pride in their gaming setup, you might find this controller difficult to fit in.

The Xbox nexus button placement, for some reason, has these odd gold flecks which look more like dust/dirt. The gold in general is an odd choice, and feels incongruous with how Xbox accessories generally show up. The incongruent design choices even extend to the braided cable, which has inexplicable blue accents, despite the fact that there's no presence of blue anywhere else here.

The loud and gaudy gold accents also undermine the RGB light bar across the bottom ... which, by the way, doesn't even come close to color accuracy. It can't output red, for example, reaching as far as pink only. No colors, besides yellow, really match up with gold, making the RGB lighting pointless. They should've removed it and shaved a pit off the price point instead, probably.

Sure, it's all cosmetic, but it shows that Flydigi didn't really think the visuals or finer details through too much when building this controller.

Flydigi Vader 5S: Competition

The tension rings are a really nice touch here, and it's a far better implementation than I've seen in some other controllers that do similar things. The Xbox Elite controller, for example, requires a tool to adjust the stick tension, which isn't exactly convenient.

The kicker here is that you're paying a fair premium for what is ultimately, potentially, a pretty niche feature. As wired options go, the GameSir G7 HE is probably still a superior value overall, and the GameSir G7 SE is cheaper still, doesn't compromise on the fundamentals, and comes with customizable faceplates for those who are into their aesthetics. There's also the wired Razer Wolverine V3 option, which comes in at the same price point.

Also, in the short term, we are most likely going to see the debut of new Xbox controllers very shortly, in the form of the Xbox Elite Controller Series 3, so you may want to hold off to see what Microsoft has cooked up for us there, too.

Ultimately, you're going to really need to want the tension adjustment feature to justify this one, I would say. And it would be a fair shout. The Flydigi Vader 5S has a fair price at $60 in my opinion, particularly when you factor in the included Xbox Game Pass Ultimate 3-month card it comes with.

Flydigi Vader 5S: Conclusion

Like I said, ultimately this product revolves around its thumbstick tension feature, which is admittedly very good. The design isn't to my personal liking, but that might not be an issue for you. Otherwise, Flydigi nails all of the fundamentals here with superb ergonomics, features, specs, and a very fair price.

There's a ton of competing similar options out there, though. Tension adjustment rings alone might not be enough to see Flydigi across the finish line with this one. Also, I'm not sure what the market is like for wired controllers in 2026 ... wireless is simply too convenient to give up for me personally, but going wired does shave a fair bit off the final price point.

If you pick this up, I highly doubt you'll be disappointed. It's a great option and one I'm happy to recommend. Is it mind-blowing? Probably not. I think Flydigi could've paid more attention to the details, but it's still a fantastic option overall, and a great first entry into its Xbox accessory line-up. I'm pretty intrigued to see what they do next.

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Asus’s ROG Raikiri II is a high‑end Xbox‑compatible controller built for players who prioritize precision and feel. Its TMR joysticks and tactile micro switches deliver noticeably sharper input and crisper feedback than standard pads, while the fit and finish feel genuinely premium. That performance comes at a premium price and with features aimed more at competitive and serious players than casual buyers. If you value accuracy and durability in long sessions, the Raikiri II makes a strong case; if you’re budget‑minded, the tradeoffs matter.

Let's get into it.

I have an odd relationship with ASUS. I love the ROG Ally and subsequent Xbox Ally range. ASUS makes some fantastic products, but the quality bar can be a bit inconsistent at times. I've had ASUS headsets, for example, and haven't been a big fan. I've owned an ASUS laptop in the past, and it has given me a lot of driver headaches, too.

All my gripes with the Xbox Ally and Xbox Ally X are more on Microsoft's side than ASUS's, whose update regime has been pretty great overall for the ROG Ally range. Given how good the inputs are on the Xbox Ally, I was eager to test out and review the ASUS Raikiri II controller when given the chance.

The Xbox Ally is a handheld, but it can be a bit finicky when docked due to Windows' idiosyncrasies with external monitors and TVs. I was hoping the ASUS Raikiri II would be a good option for swapping between my Xbox console and the Xbox Ally docked to the TV downstairs. And for the most part, it kind of is. But what I'm proposing here is a pretty niche scenario, I would imagine.

Does the ASUS Raikiri II make the grade as one of the best Xbox controllers of 2026? If you were looking for the ASUS Raikiri II Xbox / PC controller as a replacement for even a more basic, affordable experience ... well, it's a bit of a tough one.

ASUS Raikiri II: Specs & price

For $189.99, the ASUS Raikiri II does seem like a good deal on paper. It's a bit more pricy than the Xbox Elite Controller 2 Core, but it does include all the bells and whistles that you can typically only get with a full Xbox Elite Controller 2 bundle. The Elite controller is also a bit dated at this point, and doesn't include seamless switching between PC and Xbox like the Raikiri does.

In the box with the Raikiri II, you get the controller, a USB-C cable (braided), a USB wireless dongle, a USB charge dock, and the controller itself. The equivalent bundle on the Xbox Elite side typically runs up to $199.99.

On paper, the spec sheet looks grand. Beefy battery life, premium accessories, TMR sticks, Xbox-style design, Xbox Ally buttons. What's not to like?

Well ... let's get into that.

ASUS Raikiri II: Design & ergonomics

The ASUS Raikiri II will be extremely familiar to anyone who has ever used an Xbox controller. It sports the offset joysticks, ABXY buttons, two shoulder buttons, triggers, and a familiar shape to boot. Where it diverges is in the features, but we'll get more into that in a bit.

The Raikiri II is lightweight in the hand, lighter even than the Xbox Elite by a substantial margin, and comes with more modernized features. It has four baked-in back buttons, all of which are very pronounced and deliver a tactile feel. ASUS really learned from the shortcomings of the back buttons on the original ASUS ROG Ally I feel here. The micro-switches give the controller a reassuring actuation, and textured grips and thoughtful curvatures make the Raikiri II pleasant to hold across very long sessions.

The Raikiri II also matches the Xbox Ally with its Armoury Crate and Library buttons, as well as the standard Xbox "Nexus" button in the center and a clip sharing button at the bottom. On the back, we have a hard switch between Bluetooth, Wireless, and USB connectivity, as well as Xbox and PC modes. This makes it a lot easier for multi-device use than the Xbox Elite controller, which can be finicky and irritating when swapping between Bluetooth and Xbox modes.

The controller itself nails all the basics well. It feels great to use in games, and the TMR sticks should give it full resistance to drift over time. The compliments end here, though.

The Raikiri II's worst feature is the charge dock, by far. The dock itself feels like cheap and light plastic. Typically, you'd want a dock to have some heft to it, so that it will sit still on your desk. Furthermore, the two feet of the charge dock are held in place by literally ... nothing. Gravity alone and tiny pegs keep the feet in place here. An accidental knock will send the whole thing falling apart like a house of cards. I have no idea what ASUS was thinking here.

There are some RGB lights to help distract you from how poor the charge dock is, at least. Although you might find yourself tearing your hair out while configuring them.

ASUS Raikiri II review: Features & Software

There's a lot of good stuff in the package overall. The triggers can be locked in place, Elite-style, for more rapid firing. The back buttons are fully configurable, giving you access to key abilities without having to remove your thumbs from the movement sticks. It's neat having the Xbox Ally buttons available as well.

I'm grateful that there are hard switches for the different modes, too. I found that the radio frequencies work flawlessly across PC, Xbox, and Bluetooth, with no issues with connectivity and interference, unlike certain other major brand controllers I can name. The Raikiri II also delivers big in the battery department, easily sticking out a 30-40 hour battery life complete with RGB ablaze in wireless mode.

Where ASUS fully flops, though, is the configuration software, which is inexplicably web-based and requires an internet connection.

Upon installing the ASUS Armoury Crate software, which is "okay," I was prompted to download an update for the Raikiri II, which then simply provided me a URL. ASUS claims that the ASUS "Gear Link" web-based software is designed for your convenience ... but it isn't very convenient if you're in a situation without internet.

Indeed, the web-based software is a maddeningly confusing move here by ASUS. The always-online requirement to configure your controller is an insane idea. And indeed, if you're traveling, the Gear Link software will use the language of your locale rather than your PC. I was in travelling in Germany while reviewing this controller, and lo and behold, the Raikiri II Gear Link software was displaying in German. Furthermore, I couldn't use the configuration software when my internet was down, either.

It's an absurd decision on ASUS' part to put the configuration tools for this exclusively on the web, rather than in the offline Armoury Crate, like any other sane company might do.

When it works as advertised, it's not half bad ... you can configure the sensitivities across the board, actuation curves, adjust lighting, and other settings. I just wish it weren't web-based.

ASUS Raikiri II: Competition

The Xbox Elite Controller Series 2 is the obvious competition here. Microsoft's Elite Controller runs around the same price for the bells and whistles, and remains my go-to preference primarily for the charge dock and battery life. The Elite Controller has various design flaws, including stick drift and bumper wear-and-tear, but the ease of use, convenience, and design of the dock generally win me over.

The Raikiri II feels like it'll last much longer than the Series 2, however. TMR sticks give it a huge advantage in the stick drift department, and the configuration software issues only matter in specific scenarios. For the most part, once you've configured it to your preferences, you'll probably not need them again.

The charge dock on the Raikiri II is awful, but it is at the very least functional. Competing "Elite" controllers like the Razer Wolverine V3 Pro and so on usually don't have a charge dock, despite being similarly priced. The Wolverine range also seems susceptible to inference at times, which can be irritating in competitive play.

You could also just opt for something cheaper. At $189.99, the Raikiri II dock should be far, far better than it is. I'd sooner recommend just grabbing an Xbox Elite Series 2 Core and a second-hand Elite charge dock over this.

ASUS Raikiri II: Should you buy it?

The ASUS Raikiri II is not a bad controller. The controller itself is very solid overall, but it's just in the detailing where ASUS falls over.

The charge dock feels so painfully cheap that it's insulting as part of a $189.99 bundle, and the web-based configuration software is a huge and odd mistake. If ASUS opted to sell this controller without the charge dock and brought the configuration tools into a native app at $129.99 or less, it would be a great deal worth recommending. At $189.99, it becomes a bit tough.

I think once you're set up and ready to go with it, you won't be disappointed overall with your experience, but given that basic Xbox controllers run at $39.99, ASUS is really asking a lot here for what is, in essence, not exactly reinventing the wheel.

At the end of 2025, I tested the E-WIN Champion Upgraded chair, which ended up causing me a huge amount of discomfort in my back, and, to make a long story short, I didn't like it.

I quickly began searching the web for a better replacement. Fortunately, I didn't need to search long as Razer had sent me its Razer Iskur V2 X gaming chair to test.

Without the chaos of Black Friday to hold me back, I was able to immediately get to work stress testing Razer's chair. Fortunately, I can confidently say that the Razer Iskur V2 X was a sigh of relief for my back, thanks to its solid and comfy materials with an ergonomic design.

Add on top a much more affordable MSRP of $299.99, and you have a high-quality gaming chair that I would easily recommend to anyone, even if there are some aspects that can be improved upon.

Here is my review of the Razer Iskur V2 X gaming chair.

This review was made possible thanks to a review sample provided by Razer. The company had no input nor saw the contents of this review before publication.

Razer Iskur V2 X: Build quality and assembly

To start off, the Razer Iskur V2 X was quite simple to put together. It was included with a set of instructions that perfectly conveyed how to build it with informative writing and photographs, and it had a set of tools for me to build with no problems.

Still, the difficulty of building this chair will depend on your personal strength and room space. If you're not particularly strong or suffer from mobility issues, you may require assistance to help you build the chair, as some of its parts can be quite heavy.

The build quality of the Razer Iskur V2 X gaming chair is top-class. It's Multi-layered Fabric feels nice, cool, and durable to the touch. Plus, its metal wheel base is strong enough to support my 230lb+ body with no issues to its stability, regardless of its positioning.

However, it should be noted that Razer's recommended weight limit for this chair is 299 lbs. So, while gamers in my weight range won't have any issues, this chair may struggle supporting more heavyweight gamers weighing between 300 and 400 lbs, especially if the chair's not assembled as intended.

Razer Iskur V2 X: Comfort, durability, and features

The Razer Iskur V2 X gaming chair features a decent assortment of seat adjustment options to help make it more suitable for specific users. These include durable 2D Armrests, a 152° backrest recline, and a hydraulic system to change the seat's height.

After messing around with these settings, I have found that nearly every component of this chair is comfortable to rest on, no matter what position you put it in. The seat feels nice to sit on for many hours, thanks to its contoured high-density foam cushioning fitting snuggly around my backside, and its padded armrests feel nice to rest my arms on while typing.

The backrest and lumbar support feel a bit too stiff for my liking compared to the pillowy seat cushioning. Thankfully, it was nowhere near as rough as the E-WIN Champion Upgraded chair's backrest and lumbar support, and any true discomfort I felt this time was due to bad posturing on my part rather than the chair itself.

Also, I had only recently received this chair with just a week of testing, so I'm confident that once I've broken this chair's backrest and lumbar support in, it will become more comfortable in the long run.

Still, I wished that this chair came with a lumbar support pillow, but those are sold separately at Razer's website for $59.99.

Should you buy the Razer Iskur V2 X?

✅ You should buy this if:

• You're looking for a high-quality and durable mid-range chair with comfortable seat cushioning and armrests.
• You need a chair that's simple and easy to put together.
• A chair that won't cost you over $400.

❌ You should not buy this if:

• You weigh over the 299lb recommended weight limit.
• You want a chair with a softer backrest and lumbar support.
• If you want a chair bundled with a lumbar support pillow to help ease back pain.

While the Razer Iskur V2 X's $299.99 MSRP is pricier than other chairs we've reviewed in the past like the Sihoo M57, its above-average comfort levels and tough build make a strong case that justifies its price point, especially for a mid-range chair that's comparable to the Razer Enki X.

So, if you can't afford to buy the best gaming chairs on the market due to their lofty prices, like the Secretlab TITAN Evo NanoGen or the Razer Iskur V2, then the Razer Iskur V2 X is a great, affordable alternative.

A lot of innovation is happening in the wearable tech space, especially when you look at AR and smart glasses.

XREAL is one of the biggest players on that front, and now the company is teaming up with ASUS on a brand-new product: AR glasses focused entirely on gaming. Announced at the Consumer Electronics Show (CES), the ASUS ROG XREAL R1 glasses boast a world's first with dual, 240Hz micro-OLED displays.

AR glasses are already a great choice for elevating your gaming experience, whether you're at home, in bed, or traveling, but the ROG XREAL R1 glasses shown at CES 2026 want to be the best in the category. Here's what you need to know, including why anyone should consider this over XREAL's main offerings.

Peak performance for gaming on the go

I reviewed the XREAL One Pro and called it "the absolute best" of AR glasses, and this collaboration with ASUS ROG does borrow a lot from XREAL's flagship specs. Namely, the ROG XREAL R1 seem to use the same optical design, so you get the same wide 57-degrees FOV the equivalent of a 171-inch display that only you can see, and best-in-class optical transparency.

However, these glasses double the refresh rate to an unheard of 240Hz, and lower the latency from 3ms to just 2ms. Both those numbers matter a lot when it comes to competitive gaming. There are other similarities and differences, too.

The ROG XREAL R1 borrows the excellent Bose stereo speakers, electrochromic dimming, and 3DoF tracking, but doesn't boast the XREAL X1 spatial computing chip or support for the XREAL Eye attachment that enables 6DoF tracking. It also weighs about 4g more, but it still isn't heavy for a pair of AR glasses at 91g.

On the ASUS side of things, the company designed the ROG XREAL R1 glasses with the Xbox Ally gaming handhelds in mind, guaranteeing plug-and-play support and full compatibility through the USB-C ports. These glasses will also be released alongside the new ASUS ROG Control Dock, which will feature a DisplayPort and two HDMI 2.0 ports to connect to devices that don't support USB-C display output.

That basically sums it up — the ASUS ROG XREAL R1 trades some of the spatial tracking and productivity-focused features of the flagship XREAL One Pro in favor of improved gaming performance. AR glasses are already awesome for gaming, so this collaboration makes a lot of sense. It's also practically guaranteed to be significantly better than the ASUS AirVision M1 glasses I reviewed.

It'll all depend on price, but we don't have that information... yet. The ASUS ROG XREAL R1 AR glasses should release in the first half of 2026, but we'll have to wait to know exactly how much they'll cost you.

Have you experienced AR glasses for yourself, and do you think they're worth it? Let us know in the comments below!

The last ASUS keyboard I reviewed cost a whopping $300, and — as much as I liked the keyboard itself — it was tough to recommend to most people. Now, I'm back with an even more expensive keyboard from ASUS. Is history repeating itself?

This is the ASUS ROG Falcata, and it's one of the most interesting keyboards I've ever had on my desk, thanks to the uncommon split design and absolutely ridiculous specs. ASUS is also asking $420 for the Falcata, making this one of the priciest peripherals I've ever tested.

I'd be lying if I said the Falcata hasn't won me over, though. Almost no one will actually go out and buy this wireless gaming keyboard for themself, but there will undoubtedly be those drawn to this fascinating form factor and insane performance. The ROG Falcata is unlike any other keyboard I've reviewed, for better or worse.

This review was made possible thanks to a review sample provided by ASUS. ASUS had no input nor saw the contents of this review prior to publication.

My first split keyboard experience

Split keyboards aren't a novel concept, being an alternative approach to the ergonomic keyboards that plenty of people swear by. The idea is to be able to position each half of the keyboard to line up with how your hands naturally rest, making typing and gaming more comfortable over long periods of time.

Honestly, it does take some time to get used to an ergonomic keyboard, let alone a split keyboard — but the benefits are real. The ROG Falcata honestly does feel more natural to use than more traditional keyboards, but this ASUS board takes things a lot further than even other split keyboards.

For one, all the Falcata's most important components are on the left side of the board, so you can only use that for gaming (giving you the WASD keys and important shortcuts) for a significantly more compact setup. When you need both halves, a simple USB-C cable connects them; it's a slightly awkward design, but it works well.

Most ergonomic and split keyboards are also productivity-focused, and even the premium offerings tend to heavily compromise on performance. The ROG Falcata takes things to extremes with truly phenomenal gaming and typing performance, as well as a list of features too long to fully break down.

Hall Effect magnetic switches with adjustable actuation and advanced customization? Check. Support for an industry-leading 8,000Hz polling rate in both wired and wireless modes? Check. Bluetooth support for true multi-device connectivity? Check. Beautiful per-key RGB lighting and intuitive, multi-function, customizable shortcuts? Check. Detachable silicon wrist rests? Check.

On paper and in person, the ASUS ROG Falcata checks every single box for an ultra-premium wireless gaming keyboard. It's clear ASUS also put a lot of thought into how to make this split, 75% layout make sense.

Brilliant, but far too expensive for most

The ROG Falcata sold me on the appeal of a split gaming keyboard, but this keyboard has to nail everything to come close to justifying its price tag. I already mentioned the impeccable performance, but the simple feel of typing is just as brilliant.

The ASUS ROG Falcata's magnetic switches are responsive and precise, and the four-layer sound dampening helps deliver warm, gentle, and pleasant typing acoustics up there with the absolute best keyboards I've used. ASUS deserves some praise for that, at the very least.

Build quality is top-notch, and there's plenty of accessories included in the box to add further value, too. No part of the ROG Falcata made me think "this is simply not good enough for such a luxury product."

That doesn't mean there aren't some oddities. The silicon wrist rests are attached to bulky metal plates that you actually need to screw into the bottom of the keyboard (so they're not easily removed), and there's no built-in kickstand to adjust the angle or height — you instead have to attach these odd, spherical feet that come in the box. It just feels more awkward than it probably needed to be.

Overall, though, there's little to complain about. Battery life is impressive for a high-performance, RGB-lit wireless keyboard, and ASUS Gear Link is a fairly intuitive and responsive web-based app for diving into the Falcata's extensive list of software options and features. The multi-function wheel and button are also excellent, once you learn what each mode does.

I still never forgot that the ROG Falcata retails for $420, though.

ROG Falcata review: My final thoughts

✅You should buy this if ...

• You want an ergonomic keyboard with serious gaming performance.
• You see value in being able to just use the left side of your keyboard.
• You want a truly luxurious, feature-packed gaming keyboard.

❌You should not buy this if ...

• You understandably have no interest in spending so much on a keyboard.
• You're not interested in an ergonomic, split keyboard design.

When I reviewed the ASUS ROG Azoth X, I also criticized its high $300 price tag and the various oddities that came along with it, but that was a "normal" keyboard. The ROG Falcata is nearly 50% more expensive, but it offers something basically no other keyboard around does.

It's not just one of the most premium keyboards I've ever used in terms of features, performance, and typing experience — it's also one of the most versatile, thanks to the unique split keyboard design we don't often see cross over into the PC gaming world.

The ASUS ROG Falcata is honestly amazing, but there's a catch — most people simply don't want or need this, especially when it costs so much. It's absolutely a hyper-niche keyboard with plenty of its own bizarre characteristics, but I'm genuinely so happy that it exists. If you know this could be the keyboard for you, the ASUS ROG Falcata can be yours for $419.99 at BestBuy.com.

After many years, my old gaming chair fell apart during the summer of 2025. In my search for a replacement, I had an offer to test the latest chair in E-WIN's 'Champion Upgraded' series in early November. That whole month was consumed by the madness of Black Friday, so I wasn't able to write a review right away.

However, that actually gave me extra time to stress-test this gaming chair, which led to some important verdicts. At its retail price of $479.99, this chair is hard to recommend as I found it too uncomfortable to sit in for too long, doing a real number on my back, even with the included memory foam cushion.

Is it just a personal issue, and could it be tempting to pick up at a discount? Here's what I think of the E-WIN Champion Upgraded gaming chair.

This review was made possible thanks to a review sample provided by E-WIN. The company had no input nor saw the contents of this review prior to publication.

E-WIN Champion Upgraded: Build quality and assembly

Putting together the E-WIN Champion chair was simple enough. The chair included a set of instructions that was easy to understand, with informative text and photographs, and a set of tools to help the user put it together. No issues there.

Of course, depending on your personal strength and room space, you may need an extra hand to help you assemble the chair, particularly if you have any mobility issues.

For what it's worth, the build quality of its individual parts is solid. It's "Brisa Ultra Premium" PU leather feels pleasing to touch, and its heavy-duty aluminum wheel base is durable enough to withstand my 230lb+ body without crumpling in on itself, no matter how high or low I adjust its seating position with the hydraulic lift

Now, for those wondering, its weight limit is 400lbs, so gamers in my weight range, and even those a little heavier than me, shouldn't have to worry about breaking this chair if they assemble it correctly.

E-WIN Champion Upgraded: Comfort, durability, and features

The E-Win Champion Upgraded Chair has a wide variety of adjustment options to make it more comfortable to your liking. They include its 4D "Integrated Dynamic Lumber Support System", 4D PU padded armrests, a 55° backrest recline, a hydraulic system for seat height, and a 15° "Rocking Mode."

It also includes a magnetic memory foam pillow to rest your head on and a lumbar cushion to add extra comfort for your back. However, after fiddling with its settings, I've found the only genuinely comfortable parts of this chair are its armsets, which line up perfectly with my keyboard, and its memory foam head pillow.

The rest of the chair just feels too stiff, as if I'm pressing my back against a hardwood board that's been covered up with a leather cover. Plus, I can't get out of its rocking mode as the lever to adjust the seat tilt stopped working properly after a couple of weeks.

As a result, it has become too flimsy to sit in comfortably, so I have to sit near the edge of a rickety chair to prevent it from tilting too far back (which seems to be a common issue with E-Win chairs, as pointed out by my colleague, Jez Corden, in his E-WIN Flash XL chair review).

Lastly, the extra lumber pillow included with this seat feels too flat and hollow to support my back, so I had to use one of the pillows I use for sleeping as a makeshift replacement, with mixed success. It's particularly disappointing because our Editor-in-Chief, Daniel Rubino, tested an E-Win Champion Series chair back in 2020 and was quite happy with it.

Unfortunately, I don't share his sentiment for this chair, surprisingly so, since this is supposed to be an 'Upgraded' version. I don't have the same kind of lengthy experience with testing chairs, and my introduction was the excellent Sihoo M57 Full Mesh Breathable Office Chair. Now, this offering from E-WIN makes me miss it greatly.

On the other hand, I don't need years of experience to know when a chair gives me discomfort and even physical pain. Sitting on what feels like a hard plank causes severe pain in my lower back, no matter how far back or forward the backrest reclines or what height I adjust the seat to.

Not to mention, I have to sit at uncomfortable angles to compensate for its malfunctioning rocking mode after only a few weeks. It raises concerns about this chair's long-term durability to the point that I'm wondering if the rest of its adjustment features will fall apart soon, too, despite the decent build quality of its separate parts.

E-WIN Champion Upgraded: Should you buy it?

✅ You should buy this if:

• You enjoy padded armrests.
• You need a chair that's easy to assemble.

❌ You should not buy this if:

• You're over the 400lb weight limit.
• You're on a strict budget.
• You have issues with back pain.

The issues I've experienced with this chair mean its $479.99 MSRP makes it too expensive for me to recommend above others. There are far more comfortable gaming chairs out there at much lower prices, like the Razer Enki X or the aforementioned Sihoo M57, so it was already facing fierce competition.

Even if its malfunctioning lever were a one-off issue with my sample, the price would still be too high for me. Overall, I can't score it any higher and suggest saving your money for the best gaming chairs we know for a fact are worth their premium price, like the Secretlab TITAN Evo NanoGen or the Razer Iskur V2.

It took far too long for Xbox to allow other companies to create their own wireless Xbox controllers, but we're finally seeing the dam break over the last year or so. Now, ASUS is joining the party with its latest Raikiri controller, and it's a multi-platform monster with some hardcore specs.

The ASUS ROG Raikiri II is now available for $189.99 at BestBuy.com, making it another premium wireless Xbox controller to compete with the best from Xbox and Razer. It boasts anti-drift Tunneling Magnetoresistance (TMR) thumbsticks, two-stage triggers, plenty of extra buttons, RGB lighting, and multi-device wireless connectivity.

ASUS designed this controller alongside the new Xbox Ally handheld, so it also features dedicated Armoury Crate and Command Center buttons for ultimate compatibility. Of course, the ROG Raikiri II also works flawlessly with Xbox Series X|S, Xbox One, Windows PC, and Bluetooth-connected devices.

Could this be the ultimate wireless Xbox controller?

Could the ASUS ROG Raikiri II end up being the new best Xbox controller money can buy? The potential may be there, but ASUS has some stiff competition — especially from the Razer Wolverine V3 Pro we praised in our 4.5/5-star review.

On paper, the ROG Raikiri II goes blow-for-blow with the Wolverine V3 Pro. The retail price is $10 lower, but you get more advanced TMR thumbsticks (instead of Hall Effect), Bluetooth connectivity, more RGB lighting, a wireless charging stand in the box, and dedicated Armoury Crate/Command Center shortcuts for superior PC integration.

All you're seemingly giving up is the Wolverine V3 Pro's lower weight and two additional claw grip bumper buttons. As long as the ROG Raikiri II can deliver on performance, ergonomics, and reliability, it could absolutely surpass the Wolverine V3 Pro.

The ROG Raikiri II will be especially tempting for Xbox Ally owners. The matching design cues aside, having dedicated Armoury Crate and Command Center buttons is a huge boon for the Xbox Ally when docked, allowing you to more easily change device settings on the fly than is possible with other controllers.

For me, though, whether the ROG Raikiri II will actually succeed in becoming the best wireless Xbox controller depends on two things: wireless stability and battery life. Razer's flagship controller has some known connectivity issues on Xbox and PC, and its rated battery life of around 20 hours is woefully low.

ASUS claims up to 50 hours of battery life with the ROG Raikiri II; that may be with RGB lighting and rumble feedback disabled, but the initial promise is still far better than Razer's. Fortunately, Windows Central is looking to get this controller in for review, so stay tuned for our in-depth analysis on this premium peripheral.

If you'd prefer not to wait, the ASUS ROG Raikiri II wireless controller is now available for $189.99 at BestBuy.com.

I don't play a lot of competitive online multiplayer games anymore, but there's still a soft spot in my heart for Counter-Strike 2, which I've spent hundreds of hours playing. So, color me shocked when Razer revealed a special Counter-Strike 2 collection of its most premium, most performant PC gaming gear.

Razer didn't just do a Counter-Strike 2 collection; it based the designs on the legendary Dragon Lore skin for Counter-Strike's iconic AWP sniper rifle. It's a skin so lauded, there are thousands of requests to buy it for $2,000 or more on the Counter-Strike marketplace.

I went hands-on with Razer's dragon-skinned accessories, and it's easily one of the best-looking collaborations I've ever had in my office. I also love that Razer went all-in by choosing its best gear — the products that many professional Counter-Strike esports athletes actually use during tournaments.

What is the Razer Counter-Strike 2 Dragon Lore Collection?

Razer's Counter-Strike 2 collaboration is comprised of some of its highest-end accessories, so buying just one product from this family can sting your wallet. This is for those who already planned to splurge on flagship gaming gear or the most hardcore Counter-Strike fans.

In the collection, you'll find:

• Razer Viper V3 Pro Counter-Strike 2 Edition for $179.99 at Razer.com, which is $20 more than the standard version. I reviewed the Razer Viper V3 Pro wireless mouse.
  • You can also bundle this with the Razer Gigantus V2 Counter-Strike 2 Edition large mousepad for $219.98 at Razer.com.
• Razer Huntsman V3 Pro TKL Counter-Strike 2 Edition for $269.99 at Razer.com, which is $50 more than the standard version. I reviewed the Razer Huntsman V3 Pro keyboard.
• Razer BlackShark V3 Pro Counter-Strike 2 Edition for $269.99 at Razer.com, which is $20 more than the standard version. I reviewed the Razer BlackShark V3 Pro wireless headset.
• Razer Iskur V2 X Counter-Strike 2 Edition for $399.99 at Razer.com, which is $100 more than the standard version. I have not tested this chair (and decided not to accept the Counter-Strike 2 version for this hands-on).

If you're really committed, it'd cost approximately $1,160 for the entire Razer Counter-Strike 2 Collection, which is about $225 more than if you bought the standard version of each product instead.

Beautiful gold-and-red designs

Unlike so many other collaborations from a variety of companies, this collection isn't the same repeating pattern of logos haphazardly plastered onto off-the-shelf products. Each accessory in this collection is meticulously designed, with new materials, detailed and smartly placed designs, and a consistently varied theme throughout.

It all starts with that gold base, which avoids feeling gaudy in the way that so many gold things do, accented by a deep, bold red and flourished by the iconic "Dragon Lore" design. It all looks incredible when put together, but you'll still notice that each product is different.

The headset is accented more by black than red, and leans more into that beautiful gold color. The keyboard puts that red color front and center, with the "Dragon Lore" design dominating the attached wrist rest. The mouse is the most balanced of the bunch, and I love the dragon fire that naturally rests directly under my pointer finger in use.

There's only so much I can say about these designs — just check out the pictures above. I was a huge fan of the Razer Phantom White Collection I previously went hands-on with, but this collection easily takes the cake for overall aesthetics.

None of these design changes impact usability in the slightest, either. That's especially important when you consider which products Razer chose for this collection.

Actually great PC gaming accessories

Most of Razer's official, licensed collaborations feature more affordable, lower-end gear for mainstream audiences, and even Razer's "Phantom" collections tend to avoid the company's highest-end products. That's definitely not the case here.

If you're going to make a collection for Counter-Strike 2, one of the most popular competitive games with a booming esports landscape, you need to focus accessories that Counter-Strike players will actually want to use, and Razer delivered with its absolute best.

The symmetrical Razer Viper V3 Pro wireless mouse I reviewed is only arguably surpassed by the newer Razer DeathAdder V4 Pro I also reviewed, but the Viper's symmetrical design seems to be preferred by several esports athletes, including Faker and the Sentinels team.

The Razer BlackShark V3 Pro I reviewed truly can't be beaten as a high-end, high-performance wireless headset — complete with a dedicated Counter-Strike 2 audio profile and a class-leading headset microphone. The Razer Huntsman V3 Pro I reviewed is still an incredible keyboard, too, even if it has technically been upgraded in the Razer Huntsman V3 Pro 8K my colleague reviewed.

My point is that this isn't just a set for the Counter-Strike fans and collectors, it's also for the players. Razer is already an established brand among the best CS players in the world, and now those players can get their favorite gear with a sick new design. Razer's next special collection will have a hard time competing with this one.

If you're interested, you can check out the complete Razer Counter-Strike 2 Collection at Razer.com.

Even on PC, most people play Call of Duty on a controller. There's been much debate about the strength of a controller over a mouse and keyboard, and even at the very highest level, players are on controllers.

In such a fast-paced shooter, having the right equipment not only keeps you competitive but can also give you the edge.

It's hard to recommend one single controller, since Call of Duty: Black Ops 7 is on Xbox, PS5, and PC. There is no controller that's compatible with every platform. If you're on PC, I can't recommend anything as highly as the Razer Wolverine V3 Pro 8K, which is pricey at $199.99, but has an unbeatable 8,000 Hz polling rate.

Reviews

• Razer Wolverine V3 Pro 8K PC review
• Razer Wolverine V3 Pro review
• GameSir G7 Pro review
• Razer Raiju V3 Pro review
• GameSir G7 HE review
• Scuf Valor Pro review

A good controller can change the game

I would argue that more than any other shooter, your controller really makes a difference in Call of Duty: Black Ops 7. Even in the PvE modes, Endgame and Zombies, the pace is so fast, you need accuracy, reliability, and ideally, extra buttons, so your thumbs can keep focusing on aiming.

On a tech front, don't buy a controller in 2025 and beyond if it doesn't have at least Hall Effect sticks. TMR sticks are the latest evolution, and they're a little better, but both will avoid the dreaded stick drift and accurately record your movements.

Razer's latest pro controllers, the Wolverine V3 Pro 8K PC and Raiju V3 Pro, both have TMR sticks, but you don't have to spend $200. The GameSir G7 Pro is less than half the price, but still has the tech.

A topic gaining more traction of late is polling rate, but it only applies to folks playing on PC. On Xbox and PS5, the polling rate of any controller is capped at 250 Hz. On PC, there's theoretically no cap, with the leader right now the Wolverine V3 Pro 8K, with a class-leading 8,000 Hz polling rate.

To have a good competitive experience, you want at least 1,000 Hz on PC, which you can get from every controller featured here. GameSir, Scuf, and the Xbox version of the Wolverine V3 Pro all have 1,000 Hz polling on PC. The Razer Raiju V3 Pro tops out at 2,000.

FAQ

ASUS's Xbox Ally and Xbox Ally X are finally out in the wild, and people are quickly scrambling to find cases to safely contain them while traveling or simply keep them safe in general.

So, the 3rd-party gaming accessory manufacturer, JSAUX, has come to fill that niche by launching their newest products, the Slim and Max Carrying Cases for Xbox Ally and Xbox Ally X.

JSAUX is celebrating the occasion by hosting special discounts on its products at its official website, along with others on Amazon, for a limited time.

Here's what you need to know about these carrying cases and how to access JSAUX's discounts.

JSAUX carrying cases

The Slim variant of the Xbox Ally/Xbox Ally X carrying case features a shockproof & scratch-resistant hard-shell that can protect your gaming handheld from physical abuse like being knocked off a high table by accident or rattling alongside other items in luggage.

It also features compartments to hold your Xbox Ally/Xbox Ally X and game cards securely while keeping them organized so they can be easily accessed later.

On top of that, the Slim carrying case has a lightweight and compact portable design so it can fit snuggly in your backpack or luggage while you're traveling long distances, or to put it somewhere safe after using it.

The Max variant of Xbox Ally/Xbox Ally X carrying case features many of the same features as the Slim variant. The only major difference is that the Max variant features a custom-molded upper compartment to grant your gaming handheld extra protection while inside it.

The Slim and Max Xbox Ally/Xbox Ally X carrying cases are available for purchase on JSAUX's website for $27.99 (Slim) and $29.99 (Max). There are also extra thumb grips that can be bought separately for your gaming handheld for $8.99.

JSAUX discounts

As for JSAUX's discounts, the first is its exclusive Halloween Promotion event, which features the following discount system on its website:

• Buying two items will get you 10% off at checkout.
• Buying three items will get you 15% off at checkout.
• Buying four or more items will get you 20% off at checkout.

The Halloween Promotion event will last until November 5, 2025.

The second batch of JSAUX's discount are over at Amazon, where it's selling the following gaming accessories for big price slashes.

What's more is that JSAUX is offering special codes to help slash these discounted prices down even further.

Using the promo code 'JSSUSCH6506' on the JSAUX 65W USB-C Charger at Amazon's checkout will reduce its discounted price from $19.99 to $16.99. This code will remain valid from October 22, 2025, 8:00 am PDT to November 16, 2025, 11:59 pm PDT.

Meanwhile, using the promo code 'HB0609XBOX' on the JSAUX 6-in-1 Multifunctional Docking Station at checkout will reduce its discount price tag from $29.99 to $26.99. This code will remain valid from October 21, 2025, 9:00 am PDT to November 16, 2025, 11:59 pm PDT.

Why should you take advantage of these deals?

While the discount for the JSAUX 65W USB-C Charger is a very generous offer (especially for those who want a quick, cheap way to charge their gaming handhelds), we're more excited about the bargain for the JSAUX 6-in-1 Multifunctional Docking Station.

We noted in our Xbox Ally review and Xbox Ally X review that these gaming handhelds had relatively short battery lives of roughly 2 hours running graphically demanding games like Cyberpunk 2077 before needing to recharge.

As such, you're going to need a powerful device to charge them back up to full after use or keep them charged while playing them hooked to a TV or gaming monitor.

One of our highest recommendations is the JSAUX 6-in-1 Multifunctional Docking Station. This handy docking station is compatible with virtually every gaming handheld on the market.

It also features a port for HDMI 2.1 cables that can support up to 4K at 120Hz or 1080p at 240Hz, and a USB-C PD 100W port to charge your handhelds while in use.

This is usually an expensive product to buy as its MSRP is generally $39.99. However, thanks to JSAUX and Amazon, you can get this device to continually charge your Xbox Ally/Xbox Ally X while playing it for the massively reduced price of $29.99 at Amazon (and bring it down further to $26.99 using JSAUX's aforementioned promo code).

A true treat worthy of the Halloween season!

FAQ

I own several different gaming handhelds, including the Xbox Ally and Xbox Ally X, and the one thing I'm acutely aware of is how expensive these devices are. To protect these costly portable gaming machines, I always recommend people get protective accessories like a case, screen protector, and/or carrying bag.

Previously, I've reviewed dBrand's Killswitch cases for Steam Deck, ROG Ally, and ROG Ally X, and found them excellent accessories that really do protect my handhelds while also giving them a kickstand. So I was curious to see how well the newest Killswitch fits the Xbox Ally X. Since this handheld's grips are so much longer than those of these other devices, I wasn't sure if the installation process would be more of a hassle or not.

Now that I've installed a Killswitch case on both my white Xbox Ally and my black Xbox Ally X and have used both devices with these accessories in place, I can tell you all about my own experience. Here's why I highly recommend them, but with a word of caution.

This review was made possible thanks to a review sample provided by dBrand. The company had no input nor saw the contents of this review prior to publication.

dBrand Killswitch Travel Case for Xbox Ally: What's good

This Killswitch Travel Kit for Xbox Ally and Xbox Ally X is available for preorder for $79.99 at Best Buy and will launch on Nov. 19, 2025, just in time for the holidays.

It's certainly costlier than some other handheld cases, but it's also a higher-quality product than what many other companies offer.

In case you're wondering, the Xbox Ally and Xbox Ally X are basically the same size and shape, so the Xbox Ally Killswitch fits on both.

What's in the box?

Altogether, this purchase gives you the rubber case, the plastic screen cover, two joystick thumb grips, a pair of glass screen protectors, glass wipes, dust removal stickers shaped like skulls, and a microfiber towel.

Please note that the rubber case I received is not the final product; the plus and minus volume buttons are in the wrong locations, and the rubber texture is rougher than the previous Killswitch cases I've received, so much so that my fingers got a deep exfoliation while installing them. That said, dBrand assures me that these two issues are fixed in the final product.

As with all of dBrand's Killswitch cases, the Xbox Ally and Xbox Ally X version fits very tightly on my handhelds. This being the case, it takes a bit of strength and effort to pull the rubber case into position over these devices, but once it's in place, it's snug and secure.

I've embedded an official dBrand video tutorial above showing how to install the Killswitch so you can see what the process is like. Since dBrand doesn't have a newer video for the Xbox Ally X, the video shows the ROG Ally X instead, but the process is the same.

Basically, what I had to do was place the Xbox Ally's long grips into the bottom of the Killswitch rubber case and then pull on the installation stickers (on either side of the case) up and over the handheld until the case was on securely and in the proper location. From there, I just had to remove the stickers, and my handheld was good to go.

As always, putting a case on your handheld does make it thicker, so the Xbox Ally and Xbox Ally X might not fit in some docking station stands when the Killswitch is on, but this is expected.

TIP: Keep these installation stickers somewhere clean and safe in case you need to remove the case down the road. I just threw them back in the Killswitch box and put it in my closet.

With the Killswitch cases in place, the Xbox Ally handhelds feel less likely to slip from my fingers. I love that there are openings for all of the necessary vents, ports, and buttons, so I can use either handheld like I normally would.

In my opinion, the two best conveniences afforded by the Killswitch case are the kickstand and the removable screen cover.

Having a kickstand on the back allows me to more easily prop this handheld up so I can watch Netflix shows, play YouTube videos, and more without having to use my hands. In the past, I've even used a Killswitch case to prop a handheld up on my kitchen counter so I could view a recipe while my hands were messy with cooking.

Meanwhile, the removable plastic front cover makes traveling with my handhelds so much better. I can toss my Xbox Ally into a backpack or suitcase and know that the screen, buttons, and joysticks are all going to be protected during the journey. Best of all, this protective case setup is slimmer than using a hard shell carrying case while being equally as protective, so it doesn't take up too much room in my bags.

BTW: I just got done writing a Tomtoc Arccos G-47 review, and so I took a moment to see if the Xbox Ally and Xbox Ally X still fit inside this handheld carrying bag with the Killswitch in place. It most certainly does. So if you're interested, you might want to pair the Killswitch and the Tomtoc case together for easy travel.

dBrand Killswitch Travel Case for Xbox Ally: What needs improvement

While I love how snug and sculpted the Killswitch is on my Xbox Ally and Xbox Ally X, it is somewhat difficult to remove. So, if you're planning on doing any SSD upgrades, customizations, or other adjustments, you might want to do these before you put the case on. Meanwhile, if you're someone who will need to remove the case regularly, then this might not be a good fit for you.

RELATED: New WD_BLACK SSDs are "officially licensed" for Xbox Ally handhelds

As with Killswitches before this one, the kickstand looks like it can be broken if enough pressure pushes it back too far. To be fair, this is a typical scenario for many handheld case kickstands, but it's still good to be aware of.

dBrand Killswitch Travel Case for Xbox Ally: Should you buy it?

✅ You should buy this if...

• You want a slim case that still offers plenty of protection
• You'd like to give your handheld a kickstand for hands-free use
• You're looking for a high-quality case that prevents finger slippage

❌ You shouldn't buy this if...

• You regularly need to remove the case from your handheld
• You'd rather get a less expensive alternative

If you own an Xbox Ally or Xbox Ally X, then you should definitely consider getting dBrand's Killswitch Travel Kit. It takes some effort to install, but once in place, your expensive handhelds will be better protected and won't take up as much room in your bag as a dedicated hard-shell carrying case will.

It might seem like a small thing, but adding a kickstand transforms your handheld from a gaming handheld to more of an all-around entertainment device. You can more easily prop it up on various surfaces so you can watch shows or browse the internet without having to hold your device.

All in all, if you want a quality accessory that not only protects but adds additional convenience to your Xbox Ally or Xbox Ally X, then the Killswitch is the perfect fit, literally.

Every handheld gaming PC has a different shape and button layout, which means there are myriad protective cases designed specifically for any given device. However, Tomtoc has specifically designed a bag that's shaped in such a way that it works with several different handhelds.

Now, a couple of years ago, I wrote a Tomtoc Arccos-G47 review, specifically pointing out how well this travel bag works with the Steam Deck and original ROG Ally.

Since then, several new handheld gaming PCs have launched, so when Tomtoc reached out and told me that they've improved the original Arccos G-47 design to better fit a wider range of handhelds, I was intrigued.

Over the last few days, I've spent time carrying my Xbox Ally X, ROG Ally X, Legion Go 2, Legion Go, Nintendo Switch 2, and Steam Deck around in this bag to see how well it fits each of these devices. I've even packed several accessories inside to see how much it can hold.

Here's what makes this the perfect carrying bag for most handheld gaming PCs.

This review was made possible thanks to a review sample provided by Tomtoc. The company had no input nor saw the contents of this review prior to publication.

Tomtoc Arccos-G47: What's good

The Tomtoc Arccos G-47 Travel Bag has a $49.99 MSRP, but was on sale for $44.99 at Amazon at the time of writing. There are definitely some other handheld bags on the market that don't cost this much, but it also offers ample storage space, which many other carrying cases do not have.

As I mentioned earlier, I previously wrote a Tomtoc Arccos-G47 review, but Tomtoc has since updated the design of this bag. It might not be a hard shell, but this new bag design cleverly fits and protects all of the handhelds I own when they are placed inside. To ensure nothing jostles in transit, there's a velcro strap that goes over the top of a handheld to keep it still.

Inside, there's a thick protective padding that's covered in a soft fabric, as well as an improved W-shaped EVA hard case wall that separates the handheld area from the storage area and is designed to fit all major handhelds. This wall and padding together effectively shield a handheld's joysticks, front buttons, and screen from drops, bumps, and smushing.

Meanwhile, the bag is covered in a durable polyester material that is also splash-resistant, so I can trust my handheld won't be in danger from grazing sharp objects or getting damaged by light rain. What's more, the zippers slide smoothly, so I never have to fight to zip or unzip the bag.

This newer bag maintains its shape better than the original did, even when empty, which is mostly a cosmetic thing, but it does look nicer overall.

I've been able to safely transport my Steam Deck, Xbox Ally X, ROG Ally X, Legion Go, Legion Go 2, and Nintendo Switch 2 in this bag. In each case, their buttons, screens, and joysticks are protected despite having different shapes.

I also love that I can move around hands-free with this bag, since the padded shoulder strap is not only comfortable to wear, but also can be adjusted to a desired length. The new shoulder strap has improved clasps, which easily rotate while holding fast to the bag.

Then there's the spacious storage. There are very few gaming handheld carrying cases on the market that offer areas for my accessories, but this one actually does. As an example, I was able to fit my Xbox Ally X, an HDMI cable, a docking station, the Xbox Ally X charger, the Xbox Ally X cardboard stand, a power bank, and several small USB accessories inside the Arccos G-47's larger storage area at once.

Then, of course, I can also put smaller accessories, such as USB-A to USB-C adapters, microfiber cleaning cloths, and short cables, in the smaller front zipper pocket.

If desired, I can easily slip a mouse and a foldable Bluetooth keyboard (like this Artciety one I bought from Amazon) into the case to use the handheld like a more conventional computer.

Tomtoc Arccos-G47: What needs improvement

Honestly, this is a great bag design that I don't have any issues with in my own use cases. It does exactly what it was designed to do. However, there are two features that I could see some people wanting it to have that it doesn't.

First off, if you prefer to travel with a hard-shell carrying case, then this soft yet durable fabric might not be what you're looking for. Once again, the interior W-shaped wall inside the bag certainly shields handheld screens, joysticks, and buttons in transit, but might not be as protective as a hard shell case.

Secondly, it would be nicer if there were a handle on top of the bag so people could carry it right-side up when they didn't want to use the shoulder strap.

Tomtoc Arccos-G47: Should you buy it?

✅ You should buy this if...

• You want a convenient way to carry your handheld hands-free
• You like taking various accessories with you on the go
• You're looking for a carrying bag that works for each of your handhelds

❌ You shouldn't buy this if...

• You'd prefer a hard shell handheld bag
• You need something you can carry by a handle

The Tomtoc Arccos G-47 Travel Bag is the one carrying case that I can repeatedly recommend to people regardless of what handheld they own. Due to its cleverly designed inner hard case wall, the Arccos G-47 protects each of my handhelds' joysticks, buttons, and screens in transit, even though they all have different shapes.

Its ample storage space makes it very convenient to bring my various handheld accessories with me on trips. Plus, I love that it can be slung over my shoulder so my hands can be free to carry other things.

Whether you have multiple handheld devices and are looking for a bag that can accommodate each one, or you simply want a reliable bag with ample storage, the Arccos G-47 is the perfect choice for you.

There are plenty of trusted brands for affordable gaming gear, but it can be difficult to find a great wireless gaming headset for less than $100. So, what about a fantastic wireless gaming headset for $60?

That's where the Logitech G321 LIGHTSPEED comes in, and I'm honestly amazed just how good this headset is for the price. The design, comfort, performance, and connectivity are all better than you'd expect, and compromises Logitech made to hit this price are easy to see.

I wish the onboard controls were better or that I could at least customize my experience with Logitech's software, but those are minor complaints. The G321 LIGHTSPEED is the queen of value-driven gaming headsets, and it'll be tough for other companies to properly beat it.

This review was made possible thanks to a review sample provided by Logitech. Logitech had no input nor saw the contents of this review prior to publication.

Comfort and style in one affordable package

Entry-level gaming headsets are normally obvious at a glance, with chunky designs and visibly cheap plastic, but the G321 LIGHTSPEED manages to avoid that curse.

This is very much a Logitech headset, with plenty of soft curves, fabric-covered Memory Foam ear cushions, and a splash of color to add character. I honestly really like this design, and the G321 is quite comfortable to wear for long periods of time — even with the simple headband "cushion," which is just a fabric wrapping.

It helps that the G321 only weighs 210g, which is a lot lighter than most other wireless gaming headsets. Everything about this headset is simple and straightforward, with the flip-to-mute microphone, the simple power switch, the single-press button to switch between Bluetooth and 2.4GHz modes, and the volume rocker.

I really wish the connection mode button also doubled as media controls, but those are sadly lacking. It's all about the basics with this headset, and Logitech made sure to nail those fundamentals.

The G321 is equipped with standard 40mm drivers tuned with gaming in mind, but I also had no issues using this headset for video conferences, music, and videos. Audio quality is more than good enough for $60, although the G321 is certainly on the quiet side for headsets I've tested, and can get muddy through the mids.

The microphone shares the same vibes — it's honestly better than I expected for a $60 headset, and the flip-to-mute design is appreciated, but it isn't going to blow your mind. My voice was always picked up without issue and sounded clear, and background noise was kept to a minimum, but recordings sound flat in general.

One area where the G321 truly surprised me, though, is wireless connectivity. It's nice enough that this headset boasts both 2.4GHz and Bluetooth options, letting it support a wide range of devices, but I was impressed by both how quickly the headset connected when turning on or switching modes, and by how strong the connection was in use. I've tested far more expensive headsets that skipped or struggled with interference more than this one.

The cost of cutting costs

I'm clearly happy to heap some praise on the Logitech G321 LIGHTSPEED, but Logitech could hardly defy logic with a $60 wireless gaming headset. Corners were cut, and how influential those cuts are will depend on what you need from a gaming headset.

More than anything, the G321 just has less of everything. I already mentioned the lack of onboard media controls, but you also don't get onboard memory or swappable audio profiles, software support to customize equalizers or enable other features (including microphone monitoring), multi-source audio mixing, Xbox support, or wired connectivity.

The battery also isn't the most impressive, with Logitech claiming up to 20 hours of usage. That's on the low-end for any wireless headset or pair of headphones, and I did end up needing to charge the G321 during my test period. Fortunately, charging via USB Type-C is both easy and quick.

Of course, the G321 does feel like a low-end headset, too. It's well-built for what it is and I'm not afraid of it falling apart on me (honestly, I believe this headset could take a fair amount of abuse before throwing in the towel), but the G321 won't be able to fool anyone into thinking it's a $100+ headset.

G321 LIGHTSPEED review: My final thoughts

✅You should buy this if ...

• You want a good-looking gaming headset without breaking the bank.
• You only care about the basics — comfort, audio quality, and performance.
• You absolutely need a wireless headset and can't spend more than $70.

❌You should not buy this if ...

• You need a headset with dozens of hours of battery life.
• You want features like multi-source audio mixing or Xbox support.

The Logitech G321 LIGHTSPEED is unlike any other comparable headset in its price range because it's confident. The fit and finish, the reliable performance and dependable audio quality, even the crisp audio cues for powering on/off or switching connectivity modes — the G321 is a simply good headset.

The fact the Logitech G321 LIGHTSPEED costs only $59.99 at BestBuy.com is its "killer feature," and it makes this my new top pick for the best value wireless PC gaming headset. I only wish I could add it to our list of the best Xbox headsets, too, but I can't.

I recently reviewed the Logitech G522 LIGHTSPEED headset, and I really liked it. The G321 feels like a perfectly diluted version of that headset, and it costs $100 less. The G321 made me forget at times just how affordable it is, and Logitech should be proud of that accomplishment.

There has been something of a renaissance for transparent technology in the last few years, and I love it. Some of the most iconic gaming hardware from the 1990s and early 2000s boasted colorful, translucent shells, and that approach to design has been returning with products like the Razer Phantom Green Collection I tried out.

Now, Razer is returning with its second Phantom family, this time dropping the saturation in honor of the spookiest season of the year. This is the Razer Phantom White Collection, and not only is it one accessory bigger than its green predecessor, it also simply looks better — well, in my opinion.

I've gone hands-on with the Phantom White Collection to see if any of these products are worth considering, and I ended up keeping the mouse on my desk even after I was done. Now, I can only hope that the next translucent gear from Razer is the Phantom Violet Collection (Razer, call me, I'll help out).

What is the Razer Phantom White Collection?

Surprise, surprise, the Razer Phantom White Collection is just the Phantom Green Collection, but more misty than verdant. Well, there's also the addition of a new product in this lineup, so let's go through the list.

• Razer Basilisk V3 Pro 35K Phantom White Edition for $169.99 at Razer.com, which is $10 more than the normal version. We reviewed the original Razer Basilisk V3 Pro wireless mouse.
• Razer Firefly V2 Pro Phantom White Edition for $109.99 at Razer.com, which is $10 more than the normal version. I reviewed the Razer Firefly V2 Pro mousepad.
• Razer BlackWidow V4 75% Phantom White Edition for $199.99 at Razer.com, which is the same price as the normal version. We reviewed the Razer BlackWidow V4 75% wired keyboard.
• Razer Barracuda X Chroma Phantom White Edition for $139.99 at Razer.com, which is $10 more than the normal version. I reviewed the Razer Barracuda X Chroma wireless headset.
• Razer Kishi V3 Phantom White Edition for $109.99 at Razer.com, which is $10 more than the normal version (and is the new addition with this collection). I reviewed the Razer Kishi V3 Pro mobile controller.

As a complete set, the Razer Phantom White Collection costs around $730, about $40 more than if you bought the normal black and white variants of each product. The Phantom collections feature more premium gear than most of Razer's other special editions, but I love that.

I prefer this over Phantom Green

I was quite positive in my hands-on with the original Phantom Green Collection, and praised Razer for actually putting in effort to make its products look as good as possible while translucent.

It wasn't just about slapping on a new plastic shell; Razer re-engineered internals, experimented with different materials and colors, and went through dozens of iterations to get it as good as possible. I even spoke to Razer's Global Head of Design about this process.

Despite all of that, I still didn't love every part of the Phantom Green Collection. The green made it difficult to actually see the internals, the RGB lighting didn't always play nice with it, and key legibility for the keyboard plummeted to nigh unreadable levels.

Razer couldn't introduce a new family of translucent devices without starting with its iconic green, though, and I still considered the lineup a big success overall. That being said, I like the Phantom White Collection a whole lot more. It also adds the Razer Kishi V3 mobile controller to the mix, which was a good choice on Razer's part.

It's a more consistent aesthetic that works better with the Razer Chroma RGB lighting that's prominent in four of the five included products. I can already see a lot of people who skipped over the Phantom Green Collection rushing to add these products to their gaming setup, and I don't blame them — because I'm one of them.

And I like this mouse enough that I'm still using it

I used to be all-in on all-black gaming accessories, but lately I've grown rather fond of lighter-hued gear. So, when I got in the new Phantom White Collection and saw how the Basilisk V3 Pro 35K mouse and Firefly V2 Pro mousepad looked compared to my standard black versions, I knew in moments I was making the switch.

The mouse, especially, is easily the highlight of the entire Phantom White Collection. I love the peeks into the internals and the threads of RGB lighting; it even impressed one of my friends, who is very much not interested in PC gaming accessories.

It certainly helps that the Razer Basilisk V3 Pro 35K is genuinely my favorite mouse ever, of course, but I also considered the keyboard. The BlackWidow V4 75% is Razer's answer to the rise of incredible, modular enthusiast keyboards, and it's honestly great — I also reviewed the Razer BlackWidow V4 Pro 75%, and liked it a lot.

That decision will have to wait, though, because I already have a mountain of keyboards to review... and the color of the switches is extremely obvious underneath the translucent keys, and something about that bugged me a little.

Put it all together, and the Razer Phantom White Collection is an excellent retro throwback, and the ghastly tone is perfect for the spooky season. If you're interested in checking out the lineup for yourself, the Phantom White Collection is now available from $109.99 at Razer.com.

FAQ

Not too long ago, I reviewed the Logitech G515 LIGHTSPEED TKL, a unique low-profile wireless gaming keyboard with enough personality to win me over. Now, Logitech is expanding the G515 family with a new member: the RAPID TKL.

The RAPID TKL is more expensive thanks to its magnetic analog switches and a healthy list of new features, but it loses any ability to connect to your devices wirelessly in exchange. It's an interesting peripheral with a standout design.

I've been using the Logitech G515 RAPID TKL for a couple of weeks now, and my overall feelings on this keyboard are largely similar to its wireless sibling. It's a solid addition to the Logitech G family, but the G515 RAPID TKL isn't turning the world on its head by any means.

This review was made possible thanks to a review sample provided by Logitech. Logitech had no input nor saw the contents of this review prior to publication.

A familiar design with some new tricks

I don't blame Logitech for re-using the G515 design once again. This tenkeyless layout is comfortable and clean, and the two-tone, low-profile chassis looks great in any setup.

Put the G515 RAPID TKL next to the G515 LIGHTSPEED TKL, and the uninitiated would struggle to accurately tell the difference. This is the more expensive keyboard in the lineup, though, and it does feel slightly more premium than the LIGHTSPEED variant I previously reviewed.

Everything just feels a little more tightly put together, and I enjoy the subtle details like the WASD keys being a different hue. Considering the RAPID TKL costs $10 more than the wireless LIGHTSPEED version, though, there's obviously more going on underneath the hood.

So, what are you trading wireless connectivity and an extra $10 for? Logitech's low-profile, magnetic analog switches, which use a similar technology as Hall Effect thumbsticks in controllers. Unlike mechanical switches with a set actuation point, these magnetic analog switches can detect input across their entire range of motion.

They're supposedly more precise and durable, but magnetic analog switches also allow for adjustable actuation, and the G515 RAPID TKL can handle 0.1mm intervals. You also get rapid trigger (key presses are registered the moment you begin pressing) and keystroke priorities.

Most people won't need these features, but competitive gamers that demand the absolute best performance from their keyboard can find a ton of value in magnetic analog switches and the features they bring to the table.

Logitech G Hub also gives you more software customization features, like various RGB lighting effects, the ability to assign up to two unique shortcuts per key, customizable onboard profiles, and more. It's a good experience, especially for gaming.

Great for gaming, not my favorite for typing

It's clear what Logitech's goal with the G515 RAPID TKL was: make a high-performance, low-profile gaming keyboard. That's it. To that end, Logitech very much succeeded. A tried-and-true design with new magnetic analog switches tackles that goal with much aplomb.

When gaming, the G515 is unerringly consistent and responsive, and it offers a degree of adjustability that hardcore gamers relish. This keyboard also demands that you want a low-profile keyboard specifically, though, and this form factor can't take full advantage of its magnetic switches.

Shallow travel and a low actuation force (the point is adjustable) diminish the G515 RAPID TKL's merits as a keyboard for typing, at least as far as I'm concerned. This keyboard just feels soft across the board, and that's worth noting when most gamers are also using their PCs for work, school, creativity, and a whole lot of other things that aren't strictly gaming.

Logitech's pricing for the G515 RAPID TKL also puts it within striking distance of something undeniably more premium, like the Razer BlackWidow V4 Low-Profile HyperSpeed I reviewed. That keyboard can't boast the adjustable actuation features of the G515 RAPID TKL, but as an overall package it delivers more (and it's wireless, which helps justify its added cost).

G515 RAPID TKL review: My final thoughts

✅You should buy this if ...

• You want a low-profile keyboard with adjustable actuation features.
• You don't mind being connected by a wire.
• You like the two-tone design of the Logitech G515 family.

❌You should not buy this if ...

• You need a wireless keyboard.
• You're looking for an undeniably great value.

I really enjoyed my time with the Logitech G515 LIGHTSPEED, but it didn't exactly blow me away. I feel the same about the G515 RAPID TKL, which pretty directly trades the versatility of wireless connectivity for the performance of magnetic switches (and a few extra bucks).

If you understand the value of magnetic switches and the features they enable, like adjustable actuation, and you're looking for a sleek low-profile keyboard that won't hoard your precious desk real estate, then the G515 RAPID TKL is an excellent option. It's not what I'd consider affordable, but this is a quality product.

If you'd rather have full-sized keys, though, I'd sooner suggest something like the Keychron K8 HE I reviewed, which is a better overall value in my opinion. That being said, I really like the Logitech G515 RAPID TKL gaming keyboard, and it does earn my recommendation as an attractive and performant low-profile option for the competitive PC gamer.

If you're interested, you can pick up the Logitech G515 RAPID TKL for $169.99 at BestBuy.com in both black and white colorways.

With Amazon Prime Day deals currently live, you don't have to pay full price for good PC gaming accessories; several of ASUS ROG's are on sale now.

Today, the ASUS Harpe Ace Mini Wireless Esports Gaming Mouse is discounted to just $59.99 at Amazon from its usual $129.99 price point.

Meanwhile, the ASUS ROG Spatha X Wireless Gaming Mouse is down to $118.74 at Amazon, but we don't recommend it as highly. You might also want to consider the ASUS ROG Azoth X 75% Wireless Mechanical Gaming Keyboard since it's only $242.24 at Amazon right now.

Of course, you can also check out other discounts at Amazon Prime Big Deal Days.

Get the right PC gaming accessories for your games

My colleague, Zachary, has been busy reviewing an arsenal of PC gaming accessories this year as is evidenced by the fact that they reviewed every product listed on this article.

Of the three devices, they rated the ASUS ROG Harpe Ace Mini Wireless mouse the highest with a 4.5 out of 5. In addition to having the biggest percent off of its usual price, it's also the most affordable accessory of the bunch.

In their review, Zachary said, "The ASUS ROG Harpe Ace Mini is an excellent all-around wireless mouse, with a cute and compact design, reliable performance, multi-device connectivity, and a reasonable price tag. It's not the most charming mouse on the block and it's difficult to unlock its full potential, but this is the first ASUS gaming accessory that has well and truly impressed me."

We recommend going for this mouse over the Spatha X Wireless.

That's not to say that the Spatha X Wireless Gaming Mouse is bad, but there are some things you should know about it.

Zachary says its tank-like construction is divisive, and it didn't provide consistent performance in testing. However, one of the most appealing things for me is the fact that it comes with a charging station, which makes it convenient to juice up after your gaming sessions.

Finally, there's the ASUS ROG Azoth X Wireless. I'm not a big fan of this Keyboard's design, but as you can see from Zachary's pictures, it looks better in person than in the pictures on the Amazon listing.

Zachary points out that it offers a fantastic typing and gaming experience, and they like that it offers an OLED display with hot-swappable switches. So if that sounds appealing, it could be a good get this Amazon Prime Day.

FAQ

I've spent two weeks using the HyperX Cloud Alpha 2 Wireless gaming headset along with its accompanying RGB Base Station in order to get a feel for how well these devices work during gaming sessions.

There are a few things that could be improved upon, but by and large, the HyperX Cloud Alpha 2 Wireless is an excellent choice for audiophiles, as long as they are willing to spend the necessary dough to make it theirs.

This review was made possible thanks to a review sample provided by HyperX. The company had no input nor saw the contents of this review prior to publication.

What's in the box?

When I opened the HyperX Cloud Alpha 2 box, I found the headset, a detachable microphone, a USB-C to USB-C cable, a USB-A to USB-C cable, a braided audio cable, a manual, and the RGB Base Station.

HyperX Cloud Alpha 2 Wireless: What I like

Overall, the HyperX Cloud Alpha 2 Wireless has a sleek design with comfortable cushioning in the earphones and headband.

While many other headsets feature a thin faux leather material around the earphones, the Alpha 2 Wireless's earphones are covered in a soft cloth material. I personally find this material very comfortable against my head, but depending on how this feels to you, the material might range from feeling cozy to feeling unbreathable.

The various buttons on the headset allow me to adjust volume, mute, switch between Bluetooth and Wi-Fi, or press the multifunction button for easy control.

Whenever I used this headset to play games, chat with friends, or listen to music, I always found that the speakers provided excellent audio. What's more, the mic captures my voice crisply and carries it to anyone I'm communicating with without any unexpected blips or robotic glitching sounds.

Within the HyperX NGENUITY app (downloaded from the HyperX website), I can even turn on additional mic settings such as AI Noise Reduction, Compressor, and Limiter to get the mic to work the way I want it to.

The headset's spatial audio helps drop me right in the middle of the action, so I can detect where sounds are coming from in my games. Once more, going into the NGENUITY app allows me to fine-tune spatial audio or EQ settings as needed.

If I don't need the mic, I can easily detach it and place it out of the way until I need it again, which is very handy. As with other HyperX headsets, when I mute the mic, a red dot appears on it and a voice states "mic off," making it easier for me to verify that sounds have indeed stopped going out.

I found the included RGB Base Station intuitive and easy to set up.

When I'm in the middle of a heart-pounding moment in my games, I love that I can just reach over to the Base Station to quickly adjust volume or other settings without having to fiddle with my headset. It keeps my hands near the keyboard and mouse so I can jump back into the action.

The RGB Base Station features a Wi-Fi chip inside of it, so I can choose to connect the headset via Bluetooth or Wi-Fi — whatever fits my needs best.

The colors on the volume dial are especially vibrant, and I can customize hues, opacity levels, effect presets, and effect speeds within the NGENUITY app. The functions of the six buttons below the dial can also be remapped in this program, but I didn't see a way to change their colors or opacity.

HyperX Cloud Alpha 2 Wireless: What needs improvement

Considering the higher price of this headset, it would have been nice for them to include Active Noise Canceling (ANC). Still, I found the headset provided an over-ear experience that delivered great audio, despite this.

It's also worth noting that the previous Cloud Alpha 1 offered 300 hours of battery life while this new Cloud Alpha 2 offers only 250 hours. That said, it's still a very respectable battery life that should serve most gamers well.

HyperX Cloud Alpha 2 Wireless: Should you buy it?

✅ You should buy this if ...

• You want quick access to various programs and audio controls while gaming
  • The included RGB Base Station makes it incredibly easy to adjust volume, mute, open programs, or change settings without having to fiddle with the headset or your computer.

• You're looking for a headset with excellent speaker quality and mic quality
  • The HyperX Cloud Alpha 2 Wireless provides a crisp experience so you can accurately take in-game sounds and clearly communicate with your squad.

❌ You should not buy this if ...

• You don't need a premium wireless headset
  • HyperX offers a wide range of gaming headsets to fit every budget. If you don't need an accessory of this caliber, you can always look at HyperX's wired or more economical options.

• You'd prefer headphones that support ANC
  • Given the price point of this headset, it is a little strange that it doesn't offer active noise canceling. If that's an important feature for you, then consider looking at other offerings.

I've absolutely loved using the HyperX Cloud Alpha 2 Wireless gaming headset and its accompanying RGB Base Station over the last two weeks. The speakers hit both bass and high tones beautifully when I'm listening to music, and the spatial audio allows me to accurately identify where sounds are coming from in my games.

On top of that, my voice carries clearly to my teammates, ensuring that we communicate effectively.

The RGB Base Station added a level of convenience that I didn't fully realize I was missing from my gaming sessions. I love how I can mute my mic, adjust volume, change settings, or open a program by quickly using the controls on this little device. Most importantly, it keeps my hands near my keyboard and mouse so I don't get caught unawares mid-game.

The HyperX Cloud Alpha 2 Wireless is a bit pricey, but if you are someone who really cares about your audio quality and wants to be able to quickly adjust it while playing your games, then you'll appreciate using this headset and its desk accessory.

• Back to the top ⤴

I'm getting old. Fast approaching my 40s. Random joint pains in tow. Lower back pain on the daily. Long sessions at the PC are taking their toll. Perhaps there's a better way.

Say hi to E-Win!

This isn't the first time I've owned an E-Win chair. Approaching a decade ago now, I owned a different E-Win chair, and sadly had to ditch it because I hadn't anticipated how an office chair might impact my girlfriend's house's wooden flooring ... but fast forward to 2025 and I'm all carpeted up and ready to go.

My last E-Win chair was truly a revelation. With its floating lumbar pillow and generous cushioning, it was, at the time, the best chair I've ever owned. I've had a variety of SecretLab chairs since, as well as other brands, but wear and tear takes their toll on even the best chairs out there.

I had the opportunity to try out E-Win's latest iteration of their Flash XL range, designed for bigger and taller gamers (such as myself), rocking it across a variety of use-case scenarios over long periods of time. I once again find myself impressed, but I can't help but be strongly cognizant of the price here. This chair rocks up to $600, and for the price I feel like it should be a little better.

Build quality and assembly

The first thing that will strike you is the quality of the seat materials. E-Win spared no expense with the Flash XL series, and you'd hope not at the $600 price tag. The leatherette upholstery, high-quality stitching, and generous cushioning all scream premium quality, as well as premium reassurance. We'll talk durability more in a second, though.

This is one of their "XL" chairs designed for bigger customers. I'm by no means skinny, as you might be aware, but the weight limit of 550 lbs far exceeds what even I require. If you're someone on the larger side, this might be a good option for you.

Assembly was incredibly easy. All of the tools required are included in the box, as well as large printed instructions with color photographs to help you get up to speed. Given the size of the seat, however, it might be a two-person job to get it fully set up.

The base feels incredibly hard-wearing, with thick, conical metal struts accompanied by a powerful hydraulic lift in the center. It'll have no problem lifting up even the heaviest users (at least towards the weight limit), and the height adjustments across the board are incredibly generous — suitable for users all the way up to 7 feet tall. I am very much not seven feet tall, so I'm using mine at the lowest setting. At 5'8", I feel like I'm close to being too short for this chair even, since ideally you don't want to feel like your legs are dangling. I'd say people 5'10" will have the most comfortable experience with this chair, unless you get a foot rest or something like that to go with it.

Comfort, durability, and features

The E-Win Flash XL is heavily adjustable, similar to other chairs from the company, complete with additional accessories to enhance comfort.

There's a magnetic "slow-rebound" memory foam pillow for times you want to recline, and there's also a lumbar cushion that you can place at will, either at the base or small of your lower back. In addition, there's a 4-dimensional lumbar support embedded in the seat itself, allowing you to customize the curvature of the seat against your spine. You can extend or suppress this, as well as move it up and down, and it works incredibly well.

The steel frame feels reassuringly durable across the entire product, with no audible creaking. The arm rests are also PU leather-coated and feel comfortable to rest on, and can be adjusted in four dimensions as well, inward and outward, as well as up and down. They line up perfectly with the height of my desk, which gives some added comfort on my arms while typing out this review, in fact.

The back recline is also generous and well-centered, going from 85 degrees all the way down to 155 degrees if you want to get truly chill. You could probably sleep in this chair if you were so inclined (or reclined, haha, get it?)

One gripe with this is the additional floating lumbar pillow. I feel the lumbar pillow on my previous E-Win chair was far thicker and more sturdy than the one included with this one, which I felt was more comfortable. A few days in with this new one, and I've totally squashed it almost flat. It's easily solved by adding in your own pillow there, though, although it might not be necessary anyway. The chair is comfortable enough by itself, but should I need an extra pillow when paying $600?

UPDATE: After a few weeks of use, the seat tilt mechanism has started to fail already. I'm well within the listed weight limit for this chair by under 200 lbs in fact, but the catch that prevents the seat from tilting will often just spring out by itself. I recall this was an issue with previous iterations of this chair too from years ago, so it's disappointing to see that this hasn't been fixed.

Final thoughts

The E-Win Flash XL chair is a decent option for those who either want or need something on the heavy-duty end. Its wide, sturdy base and generous height adjustments would be suitable all the way up to a WWE wrestler — although if you're on the smaller side, you might want to look at some of E-Win's other gaming chairs.

✅ You should buy this if:

• You're a bigger guy or gal looking for bigger support.
• You want something that is spacious and sturdy.
• You enjoy premium materials and build quality.

❌ You should not buy this if:

• If you're below 5'8", you might need an additional footrest to keep it feeling ergonomic.
• You don't fancy spending over half a grand on a chair.

Yes, it is very pricey, though, costing more than an Xbox Series X or most likely the upcoming Xbox Ally. However, this chair feels thoroughly built to last. It might be the last gaming chair you need to buy, and as you get older, your back might thank you.

I do wish the lumbar pillow were a little more generous, but the head pillow and seat overall are very excellent. I'm disappointed that the seat tilt mechanism has already started to fail after a few weeks, despite being well within the listed weight limit. I presume that if you'd spent over half a grand on this, you wouldn't be happy to see it already starting to fail.

E-Win proves itself a decent player in the gaming chair space with this chair, but there's definitely far better options at this price point, like the Razer Ishkur.

Few gaming brands have as wide a portfolio of products and accessories as Razer, and the company keeps stretching into new categories over time. Razer's Global Head of Design plays an integral role in every one of those launches, and I was given the opportunity to talk to him.

Most of my time speaking with Charlie Bolton was discussing how the Razer design team brings Razer's many products to life alongside the rest of the company, and part of it was hyping me up for the Razer Kraken Kitty V3 Pro I went hands-on with. I had an hour with the man, though, so I dedicated the end of our conversation to the hypothetical.

This article is less about Razer and more about the man at the helm of its design team. Beyond the laptops, keyboards, headsets, mice, and other products that Razer makes, what does the head of design want to do?

This interview was edited for grammar and clarity. Razer had no input nor saw the contents of this interview prior to publication.

Discussing the favorites of what Razer already does

Charlie Bolton has been with Razer for over five years now, and he's had his hands on practically everything coming out of the company. I asked him what some of his favorite Razer designs have been, and the first answer caught me off guard: the Razer Blade 15 Studio that Bolton has apparently been using all this time.

"[The Razer Blade 15 Studio] is like five years old and it’s still rock solid," he told me. "The essence we have for our Blades really personifies Razer’s attention to detail."

I agree that Razer Blade laptops have timeless designs, and the Razer Blade 14 (2025) I recently reviewed may be the best the company has ever put out. You have to pay a ridiculous sum for those aesthetics, though, so it's absolutely not for everyone.

Next, Bolton called out his favorite Razer headset. "[The Razer Barracuda X Chroma] isn’t a premium product, for sure, it just does its job so well," he said. "I love doing headphones, you can be a bit more creative with them."

I reviewed the Razer Barracuda X Chroma, too, and while it's not my favorite gaming headset, the design is certainly not what I criticized. It's definitely Razer's sleekest and most travel-friendly headset design. In general, I think headsets are one of the areas where Razer shines the most.

The Razer BlackShark V3 Pro I also reviewed is an excellent example of this, for example, especially with its new magnetic faceplates. While I learned in part one of this interview that this change originated from new European Union regulations, Razer's design team is still excited about the possibilities.

"We’re all fans of the [Razer BlackShark V3 Pro] faceplates, or anything that gives us more opportunity to do some cool designs," Bolton told me. "I’d love to do more customization of parts, like interchangeable headbands, material changing out, ear cushions changing out. ...There’s the Kraken Kitty SKU, as well, where you’ve got the ears you can switch out."

I already told Bolton myself, but I'll say it here for posterity: I need Razer to keep heading in that direction, please. User-friendly customization is always awesome.

Fresh chances to experiment come from many sources, too. "We’re starting to do a lot of licensed projects as well," Bolton said. "...Those projects are really, really interesting, where you’ve got your Razer brand with all its brand values… and then you’re partnering up with someone with a totally different outlook."

It seems like some of the most fun the Razer design team has, though, is when they don't have to worry about reality butting in on their plans. "Where we really push ourselves is when we do a concept project, where it’s an open-ended brief, where you’re suddenly not tied down to anything," Bolton told me, with no small amount of enthusiasm.

Razer has a long history of showing off concept projects, and I even got to sit in the cool and hot Project Arielle gaming chair during CES 2025. "You don’t have to worry about ‘Is it going to be possible to get it made?’ ...They’re really fun," Bolton continued.

If there were no limits, though, what could Razer do?

Of course, I had to ask Bolton if there were any upcoming projects he was incredibly excited about, and I got the exact coy response I expected: "There’s a couple. They’re quite premium, I’d say, but that’s all I can say."

Ah, well, if I couldn't get Bolton to spill Razer's most intimate secrets, I was at least going to pick his brain on what he'd like to do. Something he and I both agreed on? A long-overdue successor to the Razer Raptor monitor we loved in 2021.

"I hope we do another [Razer Raptor]. ...If we’re doing a whole battle station of products, you need a monitor," Bolton told me. We briefly talked about how a monitor is more of a challenge for Razer than companies with vast display catalogs like Dell or HP, but if Razer's Global Head of Design is on board with us finally getting a premium, OLED Raptor refresh in the future, then maybe I actually have a chance of seeing it happen.

Next, we dived deeper into the realm of improbability. "When you start looking into the furniture side — not just chairs, but desks and setups — how that could be quite cool," Bolton said. "Really putting technology into it like we did for a CES, the [Razer Project Sophia]."

Yes, Razer does have a growing gaming chair lineup, and the aforementioned Project Arielle does incorporate technology, but it'd indeed be awesome to see Razer attempt something like the modular, all-in-one Project Sophia desk that Bolton mentioned (and Razer showed off during CES 2022).

"I want a really nice solution for [cable management] and just something very, very cool," Bolton replied after I brought up Secretlab and its fantastic Magnus smart desks (and how I do not understand how cable management works).

Bolton's most aspirational dream, though, is something completely different. "I would love to do a bit of automotive work with a car company or even a racing team, like Formula One, where you really work with them," he told me. "They’ve got all the technological know-how of making carbon fiber parts or all sorts of things. ...Just come up with something amazingly focused… that’s not happened, yet."

Plenty of companies collaborate with automotive brands, including Razer, with an extremely limited Blade 16 Lamborghini Edition back in 2023, but Bolton is envisioning something bigger. "Get them more involved, a much earlier stage in the project where they’re more integrated."

I'm not certain what that level of deep collaboration on design and engineering would result in, nor how likely it is to ever happen, but I'd love to see Bolton get that chance at some point.

Razer is one of the biggest brands when it comes to gaming, and we see a lot of Razer here at Windows Central. We don't often get the opportunity to peek behind the curtain, though, and Razer was courteous enough to provide me that chance.

I was given an hour to speak with Charlie Bolton, Razer's Global Head of Design. Bolton has his hands on every product that comes out of Razer's labs, and he's apparently not let outside too often for chats with people like me.

Part of our conversation was about the Razer Kraken Kitty V3 Pro I already went hands-on with, and a sizable chunk was discussing what Bolton and Razer could possibly attempt in the future. You can check that out, too, but for now I want to share what I learned about how Razer brings its vast family of keyboards, headsets, mice, laptops, and other gaming hardware to life.

This interview was edited for grammar and clarity. Razer had no input nor saw the contents of this interview prior to publication.

Months of work across multiple teams for each product

"Everything which is Razer, everything you see… the design team has touched in some way," Bolton told me early in our conversation. Razer has always been a design-focused gaming brand, and product developers, engineers, and designers make up a trifecta that brings every Razer product to life.

It's a push and pull from every direction. On one hand, even the design team has some leeway to bring their own ideas to the table. "[Product development] understands what’s needed, so even if it’s a crazy idea, we can pitch it out there," Bolton explained. "Especially in the beginning of a project, we push it a little bit more. You’re not tied down and push the boundaries, and then slowly get pulled back to something more realistic and within the scope."

The same is true with the engineering side of things. "We have a lot of say. We’ll push back and say 'No, no this is not working,'" Bolton said. He used low-profile keyboards, like the Razer BlackWidow V4 Low-Profile HyperSpeed I just reviewed, as an example — if the keyboard internals aren't sleek enough, the design team can point it out.

"What’s nice about Razer is we really are very careful with the engineering; we almost design products inside out," Bolton told me, but Razer is all about checks and balances. "There are limits to what we can do for design, so we have to work very closely with the engineers."

I love learning about the how of making hardware come to life, so I asked Bolton to put the process in his own words.

"It can take two or three months just to really flesh out what the product’s going to be and how it fits into the bigger picture. … Once that’s done, we can take three months batting around ideas and concepts. … Once that’s agreed, then we start really getting into the design of the product and start really exploring ideas, concepting and many rounds of model making… we need at least three rounds for doing a keyboard or a mouse or a chair, and you have to factor in six or seven months at least.

"We will do in-house 3D prints; we can do that fairly straightforward overnight. We have CAD renderings, we can make it on paper. We can do a nice presentation showing how the design will look, so you’ve got the renders and views of the product, and you have the 3D prints. If that’s generally looking okay, we’ll do a mock-up… which basically look like the real thing. They take about two or three weeks. ... That’s before we start going into tooling.

"Once we get the green light, then it will be passed to the supplier and the engineers to actually work out the final engineering parts, do the software, do the circuit boards, everything inside is finally done and that takes another seven or eight months."

Preserving a legacy while experimenting with design and form

All told, it can easily take 18-24 months from start to finish for a single product to actually reach users. "I’ve been here five years… now doing my sort of second or third round in product families, so I’m really starting to understand all the categories a lot," Bolton said.

Bolton and I discussed how he works to preserve Razer's design legacy, especially with long-standing product families like Razer DeathAdder mice and BlackShark headsets that have a strong, outstanding identity.

"We start on the high-end one… then that DNA filters down to the different form factors," Bolton told me, referencing the recent (and massive) launch of the Razer BlackShark V3 Pro lineup... which I also reviewed.

Sometimes, though, unforeseen circumstances can have an effect on Razer's design... such as the BlackShark V3 Pro's new magnetically attached faceplates. "Honestly, the way [BlackShark V3 Pro faceplates] came about were EU regulations that they need to access the battery for recycling," Bolton explained. "... So, actually, it was a technical reason, but it’s proven to be really interesting because it gives us so many opportunities… without having to change too much, we do can some really creative things."

I told Bolton I'd love to see Razer embrace the faceplates for user customization, and he wholeheartedly agreed — but nothing is official, yet, so we'll have to wait and see. Whether that happens or not, though, Razer isn't just waiting for reasons to change things up, even with its most iconic designs.

"If you get to a V4 or V5, you think… 'Okay, do we carry on doing this?'" Razer is always experimenting, especially when it comes to design. "We have so many mock-ups and samples where we test out colors, and we do some really interesting things, but it comes down to category management," Bolton said.

"We’re trying to build ecosystems of products. As much as you can do a totally random yellow mouse or purple mouse, or something crazy, we always feel like, 'Okay, now you need a purple keyboard, you need a purple headset.' Suddenly, it snowballs into quite a big project," he continued.

Of course, Razer actually did such an ambitious project not long ago, with the Phantom Green Collection I went hands-on with. "[The Phantom Green Collection] was very hard because we had existing products, and they weren’t technically designed to be transparent. ...We had to do a lot of redesigning of the internal structure," Bolton told me.

Working with the users, not against them

I already mentioned the Razer BlackShark V3 Pro headset, and what surprised me most during my review was how directly Razer addressed all my points of feedback from the last headset. I even joked with the Razer team about it while being briefed on the new headset.

"We listen to the esport players and casual gamers, get their comments — whether it’s from Reddit or all the comments," Bolton told me. "Feedback is really taken on board, and we try and incorporate that into our designs."

Going straight to the professionals is especially interesting. Razer definitely isn't the only brand partnering with esports teams to test, develop, and showcase gaming gear, but the company does take it seriously.

"[Esports athletes] are quite a late stage because they want to test the physical product. … You need working buttons, you need the scroll wheel… we’re testing almost a finished product," Bolton said. "Occasionally… we’d go to one of the tournaments, and we’d have 3D printed mock-ups, all slightly different ergonomics. … That’s quite early on in the project."

How late in the development process Razer is able to get a product in the hands of actual players obviously changes how much they're able to address feedback, of course, but this process does lead to results.

"Some of the Wolverines, we definitely had some feedback which was really good… and we had time to change it and update it," Bolton shared, mentioning elements like the rear buttons and their placement. "If there are drastic things we cannot do, we won’t just forget it… we will always use it for the next round."

It's always interesting to see how different product families evolve over time, especially when you can tell if a company has a realistic culture and actually listens to its users. "There’s always slight limitations on what we can do. We try to make the perfect product, but there’s always that room to improve," Bolton told me toward the end of our discussion.

I had a blast talking to Charlie Bolton about design at Razer, and it made me more excited to see what the company does next. Speaking of "what's next," I also chatted with Bolton about what his (and Razer's) future may look like.

Mere weeks separate me from reviewing the Razer BlackShark V3 Pro, which I firmly declared as the absolute best wireless gaming headset you can buy across Xbox, Windows PC, and PlayStation. Despite that, I may not be switching back to it after this review.

The new Razer Kraken Kitty V3 Pro isn't a better headset by any means — it costs $70 less, performs worse, and boasts fewer features, after all — but the "cute" factor is real, and it's making some monumental plays with the headset I've been testing for a couple of weeks now.

It took three generations, but Razer has finally made a cat-eared gaming headset that truly doesn't compromise, and it's easily the greatest in this admittedly niche category. It may seem shallow to value aesthetics so much, but the Kraken Kitty V3 Pro is as capable as it is adorable.

It's a Razer Kraken V4, but cuter

I had a lot of positive feelings when I reviewed the Razer Kraken V4, mostly centered around its more refined design and balanced feature set. Well, the Kraken Kitty V3 Pro might as well be the aforementioned Kraken V4, but with RGB-lit cat ears.

It's a little more complicated than that, of course, but I'll still keep it simple. The Razer Kraken Kitty V3 Pro shares its base design, audio quality, performance, feature set, and pricing with the Kraken V4, but feels a little less premium, adds some ears, and loses some endurance.

It's not unreasonable to describe this headset as a Razer Kraken V4 with cat ears, and that comparison is even more obvious when you notice I added some detachable cat ears to the Kraken V4 when I reviewed it. So, why does this headset exist?

Those who love gaming headsets with cat ears already know the answer — the Kraken Kitty V3 Pro is cuter. With no bulky, unsightly straps securing the ears to the headband, the Kraken Kitty V3 Pro looks sleeker and feels more comfortable. That customizable RGB lighting makes a difference, too, and there's even an option to make that lighting react to the game you're playing or your chat (if you're a streamer).

Yeah, it's all about aesthetics, and it's only for gamers who love adding cat ears to their headset. It's a niche category, but Razer chose the right headset to base the Kraken Kitty V3 Pro off, and it made the right decisions to make this headset as good as possible for the price.

I adore the different colorways, too. I've used the Kraken Kitty V3 Pro in both white and pink, and each looks fantastic. Personally, the white is the best of the bunch, especially with how clean the RGB lighting in the earcups and ears is.

Not the most premium, but great all around

Seeing how similar this headset is to the Razer Kraken V4, I don't need to break down every facet.

These 40mm drivers sound good for gaming and music, the retractable microphone is crisp and clear, the battery life lasts for dozens of hours if you disable the RGB lighting, Razer Synapse provides plenty of software features, you get onboard audio profiles you can quickly switch between, there's both Razer HyperSpeed Wireless and Bluetooth support, and performance is good.

There is more RGB lighting here because of the attached cat ears, though, so enabling those lights will kill the battery noticeably faster than the Kraken V4. This headset also comes in at the same price, and Razer did have to cut a corner or two to accomplish that.

Namely, in build quality. The Kraken Kitty V3 Pro still feels appropriately put together for the price, but the overall fit and finish, plus the faux leatherette ear cups, do feel slightly less premium than the earless Kraken V4.

The Kraken Kitty V3 Pro does suffer from some familiar weaknesses, too. You can't mix audio sources, for example (although I don't really expect that feature in sub-$200 headsets), and it can be a little finicky to switch between Razer HyperSpeed and Bluetooth modes.

The onboard controls are messy in general. There are just a lot of buttons and dials at this point, so there's a learning curve when setting up the headset. There's also no Xbox-specific version, which especially stings coming off the Razer BlackShark V3 Pro I recently reviewed.

Kraken Kitty V3 Pro review: My final thoughts

✅You should buy this if ...

• You want a quality gaming headset with proper RGB-lit cat ears.
• You're tired of cute headsets compromising on features or performance.
• You're looking for a great headset that comes in more than just black.

❌You should not buy this if ...

• You don't care about cat ears on your headset (why are you here?).
• You prioritize performance and features far more than aesthetics.

Over two years separate Razer's fresh Kraken Kitty V3 Pro from its predecessor, and it's clear how the company's approach has changed in that time. The new headset is sleeker, cheaper, more capable, and drops the restrictive wire — all while looking better than ever.

Sure, we can't swap between different ear designs anymore (which will undoubtedly devastate some), but the new Kraken Kitty V3 Pro possesses a lot more mainstream appeal. It's the best the line has been, and while I would happily pay for an ultra-premium flagship variant, I also completely understand why Razer made this the highest-end Kitty.

And, to be frank, I like this headset enough that I may not go back to the Razer BlackShark V3 Pro — even though that headset is objectively nicer in almost every category.

It's interesting to consider where the Kitty headset goes from here, especially knowing that Razer is considering detaching it from the Kraken family entirely, but I'm not in any rush to find out. The Razer Kraken Kitty V3 Pro is the wireless gaming headset for those who want to be cute, and it's available now for $179.99 at Razer.com.

Razer also has the new, entry-level Kraken Kitty V3 X for $59.99 at Razer.com, which is perfect for children or those on a tight budget. Sadly, there's no middle child, as Razer opted to keep the alright Kraken Kitty V2 BT on instead.

Back when we reviewed the Razer DeathStalker V2 Pro, we called it the "best low-profile, high-performance optical gaming keyboard." It seems Razer received more than a few requests for a true mechanical variant, though.

Fast forward a few years, and we now have the Razer BlackWidow V4 Low-Profile HyperSpeed — a rather long name for a rather compact keyboard. It's a BlackWidow because Razer's low-profile DeathStalker family isn't going anywhere, but it will continue to employ optical switches.

I've been using this new BlackWidow keyboard for a while and getting a feel for Razer's brand-new low-profile mechanical switches, and those waiting for Razer to fill this low-profile niche should be happy. The price tag isn't nearly as slim as the keyboard, though, and that'll sting many a wallet.

Two sizes and an eight-button difference between them

The BlackWidow V4 Low-Profile HyperSpeed comes in full-sized and tenkeyless flavors, both in the same black colorway. As expected, the designs are nearly identical — with around eight differences.

This low-profile keyboard is around 18.5mm in height, constructed mostly of plastic but with a brushed aluminum top-mounted plate. The protruding plastic shelf (most noticeable with the TKL variant) is odd, but I like this design.

It's too bad build quality isn't quite as refined as I'd expect for such a premium product — the seam where the metal top plate meets that aforementioned plastic shelf is uneven, for example.

The keys are a good size and the layout makes sense, though, and all the features you expect of a premium wireless gaming keyboard are here. You get Razer HyperSpeed Wireless (with a hidden garage for dongle storage), three Bluetooth wireless profiles, two-stage kickstands, sticky rubber feet, and an assortment of additional buttons and controls.

If you're like me and prefer your low-profile keyboard to be of the tenkeyless variety, though, you'll have to accept a compromise — eight fewer customizable macros.

Both versions get the control dial, the triple-function macro, an "AI" button set to open Razer's new AI Prompt Master (that you can remap to anything else you want), and a dedicated battery level button that strangely can't be customized. The full-sized version adds five remappable macro keys and three media control keys, all aligned on the top plastic shelf that's oddly empty on the TKL version.

I'm not sure if there's an engineering constraint here or something else, but I wish Razer had made room for at least some of those extra keys on the smaller keyboard.

Slim and prim, but is it good enough for the price?

Macro criticisms aside, is the new Razer BlackWidow V4 Low-Profile HyperSpeed actually worth spending at least $199.99 at Razer just for the tenkeyless version? I get it — making unique low-profile variants of Razer's in-house Green, Yellow, and Orange switches must've been a tall order.

Squeezing two layers of sound-dampening foam, per-key RGB lighting, five onboard profiles, and a large enough battery to support up to 980 hours of use (in power-saving mode) couldn't have been easy, either. That's all on paper, though; I've been actually using this keyboard.

It always feels like there's something preventing the BlackWidow V4 Low-Profile from achieving greatness.

The typing and gaming experience is excellent (with separate modes to improve consistency or responsiveness), but this keyboard is absolutely on the loud side. The RGB lighting looks good, but it's dim and doesn't highlight all the secondary functions. The battery life can be great, but even modest RGB lighting can seriously tank that endurance. Wireless performance is nearly flawless, but you'll be limited to a 1,000Hz polling rate no matter how you choose to connect.

BlackWidow V4 Low-Profile review: My final thoughts

✅You should buy this if ...

• You want a low-profile keyboard, but make it mechanical.
• You can't have low-profile switches without ditching the wires.
• You want great gaming performance in a compact package.

❌You should not buy this if ...

• You don't mind the extra vertical mass of a normal low-profile keyboard.
• You don't think "low-profile" should mean "higher price tag."

I'm not certain just how much demand there is for a high-performance, low-profile, mechanical gaming keyboard — especially one as premium as this one — but Razer has been expanding into a lot of more niche categories with its latest launches, and this is no exception.

The BlackWidow V4 Low-Profile HyperSpeed is really good, too, and I think people will like Razer's new low-profile mechanical switches a lot. There are enough compromises or weaknesses to deter potential buyers when such a massive price tag looms over this sleek board, though.

That's especially true when brands like Keychron are increasingly pushing into the PC gaming space with more value-driven, enthusiast-focused boards. Still, I really like this keyboard, and you can get it now, too, from $199.99 at Razer.com.

I've been using the iBuyPower MK9 PRO RGB Mechanical Keyboard for the last week and a half while playing games and writing to see how well it works.

While it's by no means the most premium mechanical gaming keyboard on the market, it's a fantastic choice that provides some customization and fast actuation at a decent price.

You've probably heard of iBuyPower before, since many of the company's devices and accessories are available for purchase at Amazon, Newegg, and Best Buy; however, this specific keyboard isn't listed at those retailers as of yet.

Additionally, it's worth noting that the MK9 Pro RGB Mechanical Keyboard is only available as a wired keyboard, with no wireless options in sight. You can get it for $59.99 at iBuyPower, and it's a great value buy given the features it offers.

In the box, you get the mechanical keyboard itself, a simple manual, a USB-C to USB-A cable, and a keycap remover tool.

iBuyPower MK9 Pro: What's good

While the keyboard's design doesn't really stand out from other mechanical gaming keyboards, it looks nice and is well-built. The MK9 Pro has a hefty, substantial weight and a sturdy chassis that doesn't slide around while I type. Of course, the well-placed rubber footpads on the bottom help with that as well.

Meanwhile, there are two different sizes of adjustable feet to choose the best keyboard incline for my experience.

It's worth noting that the keyboard's sole USB-C port is located on the keyboard's right side, which might feel awkward for people who need to plug it in on their right side. If the cable were attached to the back center of the keyboard, this wouldn't be a problem, but as it is, the included USB-C to USB-A cable is plenty long to reach your computer, whether it's on the ground or on the desk.

As you'd expect from a good mechanical keyboard that features linear switches, the MK9 Pro offers an extremely satisfying clicky clacky typing experience that I never tire of hearing or feeling.

If you're the kind of person who likes to buy and use different keycaps, then you can easily use the included keycap remover tool.

When it comes to gaming, the keys offer hardly any resistance but snap back up to attention very quickly. They're also very responsive with low latency, allowing me to respond as quickly as possible in competitive multiplayer games or when typing furiously at my computer.

You might have noted from the pictures that this is a 96% keyboard, meaning that it offers a full number pad, unlike some other mechanical keyboards in this price range. This comes in handy for me since I often work in spreadsheets and need to input numeric data for work, so if that's the same for you, it will be nice to have.

A useful set of Function keys along the top of the keyboard makes it possible to quickly open the calculator, open a new web browser page, launch a music player, adjust volume, open Outlook, and more.

Additionally, I love that the default function keys make it possible to alter the brightness of the keyboard's RGB or cycle through some of the animation effects without having to open the free HYTE Nexus software to make these customizations (you can download it from HYTE.com).

Within HYTE Nexus, the program gives me more customization options, like determining how fast specific animations and effects are. I can even turn on Audio Visualization with visual effects that move to the beat of my music, or upload an image for the keyboard to copy.

I do have a few qualms with this software, though.

iBuyPower MK9 Pro: What needs improvement

While using the HYTE Nexus software, I found myself getting mildly frustrated multiple times since the program often takes a few seconds to respond when I click on anything. Sometimes the software fails to make anything happen at all after I make an effect selection.

The hues that shine through on the keyboard often don't match the color I select within the HYTE Nexus program's color picker. For instance, choosing a relatively strong Xbox green makes the keyboard glow blue, so your actual color options are somewhat limited.

And, unless I missed it, there is no way to change the color and effect for each individual key in the software.

Another thing to note is that this keyboard doesn't save onboard profiles for you to swap between, so if you want to make changes, you'll have to hop into HYTE Nexus.

iBuyPower MK9 Pro: Should you buy it?

✅ You should buy this if...

• You're looking for a mechanical keyboard on a budget
  It might not have the very best effects and customization features, but this keyboard does offer fun RGB with responsive keys at a value price.

❌ You shouldn't buy this if...

• You specifically want a wireless keyboard
  iBuyPower only sells a wired version of the MK9 Pro, so if you need something with a built-in battery you'll need to look elsewhere.

While it won't win any innovation awards, the MK9 Pro RGB Mechanical Keyboard is an aesthetically pleasing accessory that will serve your gaming and typing needs well. This keyboard is very responsive and snappy, allowing you to enjoy that satisfying clickiness while still getting the fast-paced performance you need with gaming.

I love the substantial weight of the keyboard, and there are plenty of helpful function keys, a full number pad, and a volume dial for your convenience.

While I appreciate being able to adjust some RGB lighting settings directly on the keyboard, the HYTE Nexus software requires an update to make it more responsive and reliable. But in the end, the MK9 Pro's biggest flaws really aren't that big; they certainly won't prevent you from getting a good gaming experience.

Overall, it's a reliable and attractive mechanical keyboard that you can trust during heart-pounding moments. Plus, its value price range means this mechanical RGB gaming keyboard won't make your wallet cry like some others will.

I like having fun. I like looking cute. I like playing games. It should come as no surprise that I've been a fan of the Razer Kraken Kitty family of gaming headsets for years, ever since I reviewed the Razer Kraken Kitty V2 Pro.

That was actually my first gaming headset review for Windows Central, and a lot of audio gear has come and gone across my desk in the intervening years. Now, the day has finally come — the Razer Kraken Kitty V3 Pro is official, and Razer made sure I was among the first to get their grubby paws on it.

• RELATED: My full, in-depth Razer Kraken Kitty V3 Pro review

This latest Kitty headset is a departure in some ways from its predecessor, but those changes make it even better. I also recently had a chance to sit down with Razer's Global Head of Design, Charlie Bolton, though, so I know even bigger changes are coming way down the line for this prestigious family.

In the meantime, though, here are my thoughts on the brand-new Razer Kraken Kitty V3 Pro.

Unboxing the new Razer Kraken Kitty V3 Pro

It's pretty clear at a glance that Razer took the foundation it debuted with the Kraken V4 mid-range wireless gaming headset for this product. I reviewed the Razer Kraken V4 and praised it for its balanced versatility, so I wasn't at all disappointed to spot all the blatant similarities.

You're looking at the same general unboxing experience, complete with the generous (and wonderfully color-matched) accessories. You get the same slimmer Kraken design, 40mm drivers, THX spatial audio, 9-zone RGB lighting, dual Bluetooth and 2.4GHz wireless connectivity (with no simultaneous source mixing), and the same upgraded, retractable microphone.

If you're looking for what Razer changed, you only have to look. The Kraken Kitty V3 Pro also comes in really sleek white and quartz (pink) colorways, adds RGB-lit cat ears to the top, and manages to hit the same price point of $179.99 at Razer.com, which I did not expect and love to see.

It does feel like overall build quality has taken a slight dip to avoid those ears accruing a cost premium, though, including the fabric earcup cushions of the Kraken V4 being replaced with more fragile-feeling leatherette cushions.

I think that's a fair compromise; Razer struck a good balance here, just as it did with the regular Kraken V4. This does mean we no longer get the swappable ears of the older Kraken Kitty V2 Pro, but a more elegant design, wireless connectivity, and a lower starting price more than make up for that in my eyes.

I am slightly disappointed that there's no Kitty variant of the full-featured Razer Kraken V4 Pro I reviewed, but I also understand. The Kraken Kitty family has a passionate fanbase, but it's still relatively niche — it doesn't make sense for Razer to make an ultra-premium variant that very few people will actually buy.

Still the best gaming headset with cat ears, but what's next?

You'll have to wait a little longer for the full interview, but I did recently have a long discussion with Charlie Bolton, Razer's Global Head of Design. “The Kitty family is definitely something we’re looking into… What could we do with it?" He said during our conversation. "It has been part of one of the really strong families, okay, now what’s the next thing for it?”

Since its inception, the Kraken Kitty headsets have been closely tied to, well, the Kraken headsets. After all, the Kraken Kitty V3 Pro is essentially a cat-ified variant of the Kraken V4. That relationship makes a lot of sense, and I have little doubt this headset will end up being a top pick for a lot of people, but Razer is apparently considering a big shift in approach for the next generation.

“The Kitty family still has a huge, huge way to go, even if it’s not part of Kraken,” Bolton told me. I'm really excited to see what that looks like, but I won't hold my breath. There's at least a couple of years separating us from the Kitty V4, and what's the rush? We just got a great new wireless gaming headset, and I'll be reviewing it for Windows Central in the near future.

My thoughts right now? I love this design and the three available colors. The audio quality and performance have been excellent so far, and I really wish there were an Xbox-specific version. I still have a lot more testing to do, but Razer is off to a great start with the Kraken Kitty V3 Pro gaming headset, now available for $179.99 at Razer.com in black, white, and pink.

There's also the new ultra-affordable, wired Razer Kraken Kitty V3 X for $59.99 at Razer.com, if you want to save some cash. Razer is keeping the old Kraken Kitty V2 BT around as a middle-of-the-road option, too, but if you want a wireless headset, it's honestly worth paying more for the Kraken Kitty V3 Pro.

I can be rational and accept the limitations of small-scale, limited-edition collaborations between brands. I can accept that some partnerships make most sense in specific markets (even if I'm not a part of those markets), and that the economy of scale means collaborations may not always target the products I'd personally use.

It's good to know, however, that the disappointments of reality can occasionally be subverted. Case in point: Razer remembering that I don't live in China, and therefore was unable to appreciate its special edition gaming headset inspired by one of my top three favorite Pokémon of all time.

The full force of my delusion reassures me that you, dear reader, understand exactly where I'm going with this — the Razer Kraken Kitty V2 Gengar Edition is finally available in global markets, and I've been fortunate enough to already get my hands on it.

Unboxing the Razer Kraken Kitty V2 Gengar Edition

Razer has been going hard with its brand collaborations lately, and some have been pretty awesome. We more-or-less know what to expect, though, so I wasn't particularly surprised by what I found when unboxing this ghost-ified gaming headset.

This is the Razer Kraken Kitty V2, a wired USB, PC gaming headset with a $100 price tag, modest hardware, and an adorable design. It's the perfect base to do some limited-edition designs, and it makes complete sense to use it here.

You'll find the Gengar Edition safely encapsulated in its custom packaging, but the contents of the box are the same — it's the headset, its permanently attached cable, and some paperwork.

Razer rarely sticks to the basics with its limited-edition gear, though, so don't expect this to be a regular Kraken Kitty V2 spray-painted purple. The whole headset gets a tasteful shift in hues, with clashing purples in the plastics and cushions, bright red fabric in the ear cups, some hidden ghosties, and Gengar's iconic head and back spines replacing the standard cat ears.

It's well done, but the Razer Kraken Kitty V2 Gengar Edition also costs $139.99 at Razer.com, a $40 premium that makes it far pricier than what you'd normally pay for this caliber of gaming headset.

Not the headset I'd use, but it's the Pokémon I'd choose

I recently went hands-on with the Razer x Pokémon Collection, and I mostly really enjoyed what felt like a well-rounded and thoughtfully designed set of gaming gear. It also made me hopeful that we'd see some other Razer collaborations hit global markets, like, hm, I don't know, the Kraken Kitty V2 Gengar Edition that was exclusive to China for nearly a year?

I'm ecstatic now that it's here, as Gengar is one of my top three favorite Pokémon of all time (Absol and Umbreon are the other two, if you were curious). It's a good-looking headset, too, but I definitely see it more as a collector's item than anything else.

The Kraken Kitty V2 is a fine wired gaming headset, but it's also showing its age, and these limited editions always cost significantly more. When your product's whole thing is offering a great value, any noticeable price increase is a tough pill to swallow — a 40% price increase just feels ridiculous.

Still, I'm happy this headset is more widely available now, and I think it'll make a lot of hardcore Gengar fans really happy (even if they don't end up using it as their primary gaming headset). It's a fantastically spooky design built onto an already-adorable headset, and there's no such thing as "too many Gengar collectibles."

Now I just need Razer to release a new ultra-premium, wireless Kraken Kitty headset and design an awesome, extremely detailed Shiny Umbreon special edition. You only have to make one, Razer, and no one else has to know.

The Razer Kraken Kitty V2 Gengar Edition is now available for $139.99 at Razer.com. If you'd rather go full Pikachu, the Razer Kraken V4 X Pokémon Edition is also available for $99.99 at Razer.com, which does feel like a more approachable price.

Many gamers may not be fully aware, but HP isn’t just making printers and productivity-focused PCs — the company also maintains a significant presence in the gaming industry.

HP’s OMEN and HyperX brands have continued to grow in scale and ambition, and have also increasingly separated themselves from HP’s more mundane consumer efforts. Case in point, the dedicated event at which HP announced a slew of new gaming hardware and accessories.

I was invited to attend this unique event by HP, and arrived early to go hands-on with the brand-new HP OMEN PCs and HyperX audio gear. I came away impressed and intrigued, especially by the beastly OMEN MAX 45L gaming desktop that pulls out all the stops.

Gaming to the MAX with a new flagship desktop

The HP OMEN 45L is dead; long live the HP OMEN MAX 45L, the most absurdly powerful pre-built desktop PC to ever come out of HP’s laboratories.

On the inside, you’ll find some insane hardware… but not entirely unfamiliar. The OMEN MAX 45L is powered by the latest from AMD and NVIDIA, up to the Ryzen 9 9950X3D and GeForce RTX 5090, to be exact. You can also get crazy amounts of RAM and plenty of PCIe Gen5 SSD storage, but none of that is what makes the OMEN MAX 45L special.

Much of that you can also find in the refreshed HP OMEN 35L (which I’ll talk more about later), but this desktop’s overwhelming presence is due to its unique cooling solution. HP’s “CRYO CHAMBER” brand has returned, but you haven’t seen it like this, yet.

I’ll admit, the OMEN MAX 45L does look odd in person. It’s like a normal gaming desktop wearing a hat, but it’s all for a purpose. Different paths for airflow and improved use of ambient air result in substantially improved thermals, and in turn allow users to truly max out this PC’s hardware.

HP has already impressed me with the depth and granularity of its overclocking and power management features with recent OMEN hardware, but the OMEN MAX 45L goes a step further by letting you overclock the memory, CPU, and GPU — and HP was very excited to tell me there are no artificial limitations here. You can really push this hardware to the max.

It’s this promise of truly “extreme” performance thanks to the OMEN MAX 45L’s overclocking capabilities that presumably justifies its position at the top, but I’ll have to test it for myself to see if it really earns that distinction.

Leaving behind the RGB and flying under the radar

The biggest surprise of HP’s event, though, was how much I really loved the new “Stealth Edition” OMEN 35L. The OMEN 35L hasn’t changed much since I reviewed it, apart from a spec bump to the latest AMD and NVIDIA internals, but this version takes the same hardware and slots it into a sleek, nondescript, matte black case devoid of RGB lighting and bold glass.

I was a fan when I covered the product’s announcement, but this desktop looks even better in person. It’s clean, and it makes a lot of sense why Riot Games chose this specific computer as the standard for its VALORANT esports league.

I love RGB lighting as much as the next gamer, but there’s also a depressing lack of “sleeper” hardware that HP is filling here — and the positive reception has apparently already been immense.

I don’t expect this OMEN 35L to be a drastic departure from last year (apart from slightly improved performance and hopefully more stable software), but I am very interested to check out the Stealth Edition.

A different approach to AMD and Intel laptops?

One of the more interesting things I learned during this HP event is how the company is approaching AMD and Intel SKUs for its OMEN gaming laptops. I recently reviewed the flagship HP OMEN MAX 16 (2025) and liked it well enough, and now it's getting an AMD variant — with a twist.

The original OMEN MAX 16 is powered by Intel Core Ultra HX-series CPUs, Intel's most powerful mobile chipsets. The downside is that the integrated Neural Processing Unit (NPU) isn't powerful enough to enable full Copilot+ PC status, making them lesser AI PCs in an increasingly AI-driven world.

Instead of using the AMD equivalent, like what's found in the ASUS ROG Strix G16 (2025) I reviewed, the new OMEN MAX 16 is actually powered by AMD Ryzen AI chipsets. That means less raw power, but far greater efficiency and a whole lot more smarts for artificial intelligence features.

HP told me it's because it found people want that choice, and many value battery life enough to trade some CPU performance for it. I'd certainly make that choice, so I'm all for HP's slightly more unique approach here. The standard, mid-range HP OMEN 16 is getting the same AMD/Intel treatment, too.

Leveling up your audio with new HyperX accessories

HyperX joined the fun during this Level Reforge event, too, showing off two new wireless gaming headsets and two new microphones. I got to check them all out to varying degrees, and I think this is an exciting lineup for a few reasons.

Possibly the most interesting of the bunch to me personally is the HyperX Cloud Flight 2, a new multi-platform, mid-range headset. It's ultra-light and made of plastic, so it's not the most premium feeling, but HyperX is doing some interesting things here.

All the basics are covered — angled 50mm drivers, Bluetooth and 2.4GHz wireless connectivity, an Xbox-specific version with added features (like a built-in chat mixer), up to 125 hours of battery life, an upgraded 10mm boom microphone, and more.

On top of that, though, HyperX designed the headband cushion, earcup cushions, and magnetic faceplates to all be easily removable and replaceable. More than that, the headset's RGB lighting actually covers the entire area underneath those faceplates, allowing light to shine in through cutouts; that opens a lot of possibilities for customizing your headset, and HyperX is looking into expanding those options for consumers.

There's even an internal microphone so that you can continue to do voice calls without the awkward boom microphone attached, which a lot of headsets that claim to double up as wireless headphones lack.

I also tried out HyperX's new flagship Alpha 2 wireless headset, which immediately feels extremely polished and premium with its understated, RGB-less, metal-infused design. It's sleek and comfy, the audio sounded excellent in my limited testing, and HyperX is promising a ridiculous 250-hour battery life.

That headset will be going up against the Razer BlackShark V3 Pro I reviewed, though, so the performance will have to be top-notch to justify its higher price tag of $299.99 at HP.com.

I did check out both of the new HyperX microphones, too, although I wasn't really able to test them. The premium FlipCast for $229.99 at HP.com could be a fantastic option for those who want to get into content creation of any kind but aren't quite ready to invest in a full (often expensive) XLR-based setup; the FlipCast also boasts USB input for casual plug-and-play, as well as a smart and attractive design with a dynamic LED meter.

I actually have the HyperX FlipCast in to review, so you can expect my in-depth thoughts on it in the coming weeks. I don't have the SoloCast 2 yet, but I am excited to eventually check it out. This is HyperX's most affordable USB microphone, and it looks like it'll be a direct competitor to the AVerMedia VERSATI go (AM310G2) I reviewed and loved.

It'll be interesting to see if the SoloCast 2, which costs $59.99 at HP.com, can offer the same level of quality and features as that microphone.

A fun and creative way to show off new products

I do want to spare a moment to talk about the event itself, because this wasn't your normal tech briefing. HP got a bunch of well-known Twitch streamers and content creators together in a game-show format, with the goal being to "reforge" a broken blade by excelling at a variety of mini-games.

Beyond the awkward, forced jokes of the beginning, this event was actually really enjoyable to watch. The games were fun, and the synergy between teams and the excellent hosts led to some hilarious moments.

In between event beats, HP announced its new products with flashy commercials and casual interviews between obviously passionate (and often nervous) nerds, which made the products feel like they were truly made for gamers, by gamers.

HP seemed very pleased about the reception to the event, too, as this was the first time the company has ever attempted something like this. I and many others had plenty of feedback to give for future iterations, and it does seem like we can expect Level Reforge to return next year.

I always appreciate engaging with a company that actively seeks out criticism, too, and I chatted with various HP OMEN and HyperX leads and engineers on new and existing hardware.

For example, one of the demo areas used the HP OMEN Transcend 32 OLED monitor I reviewed, but had been afflicted with a dreaded forced pixel refresh. I had an open and shockingly productive conversation with a member of that team about my review and all my criticisms for what is genuinely a great monitor, and it reassured me that future HP OMEN monitors will actually be better because of feedback from actual users.

Thank you, HP, for inviting me out to Level Reforge. I had more fun than I honestly expected I would. As for what comes next, stay tuned to Windows Central for my reviews of the new HP OMEN and HyperX gear!

In addition to a modest addition to the HP OMEN hardware family, HP and HyperX also announced humble horde of new accessories — and any one may be what you were looking for to complete your setup.

Today's unveiling includes two new HyperX Cloud wireless gaming headsets and two new microphones. For many, the long-awaited follow-up to HyperX's hugely popular Cloud Alpha Wireless headset will be especially interesting, as will the unique FlipCast microphone and its dual USB/XLR inputs.

Those of us with more modest tastes, though, will be drawn to the reasonably equipped Flight 2 gaming headset or the compact, all-in-one SoloCast 2 microphone. There's a little something for everyone here, especially for existing HyperX fans looking for an upgrade.

First, we have two different microphones. There's the HyperX SoloCast 2, the follow-up to the company's compact, cute-and-friendly budget microphone. It's still an all-in-one USB condenser microphone with a standard cardioid polar pattern, but now in a more squared-off design.

This is for the casual consumers who need higher quality and higher resolution recording, but don't want to break the bank or invest in a hardcore recording setup. Depending on the pricing, the SoloCast 2 could be an excellent option.

The more exciting of the two microphones is easily the FlipCast, a more premium microphone with a unique design and a standout feature.

Not only is it significantly higher resolution (the same 32-bit/192KHz sampling rate as the premium HyperX QuadCast 2 S microphone I reviewed, actually), it also supports both USB and XLR output. The FlipCast can be a high-quality USB microphone in any situation, but it's ready to grow into expanded XLR setups with audio mixers and studio decks — and it can even handle dual-PC streaming setups.

I also quite like the design, including the raised LED level indicator and the onboard controls. If the FlipCast delivers on the quality and ease-of-use front, it could be the perfect microphone for those who know they may need more in the future.

Next, we have two new HyperX Cloud wireless gaming headsets, also split between an option for everyone and an option for those who want something more premium and... unique.

The HyperX Cloud Flight 2 Wireless is the latest, more affordable wireless gaming headset from HyperX, and features a refreshed design with removeable magnetic faceplates and RGB lighting. HyperX apparently designed this headset to be more modular, with swappable headbands, ear cushions, and faceplates.

At its core, though, it's still a HyperX gaming headset. You get angled 50mm HyperX drivers, a detachable 10mm boom microphone, 2.4GHz and Bluetooth wireless modes (with onboard controls), and up to 100 hours of battery life. Interestingly, HyperX also baked in an internal microphone, so you can still take calls even without the main microphone (albeit at a lower quality).

There is an Xbox version for those who need it, too, which I cannot say about the more premium, PC-focused HyperX Cloud Alpha 2 Wireless headset.

Right off the bat, HyperX addressed some of the biggest concerns with the original Alpha: the design is sleeker, there's now Bluetooth connectivity (including simultaneous source mixing), and you get even larger and more dynamic audio drivers.

Battery life isn't quite as impressive as the original, but with up to 250 hours of juice, the HyperX Cloud Alpha 2 is still a technical marvel. All that, and HyperX is also including a new RGB Base Station, which includes a volume dial, audio controls, and programmable macro buttons. It's a cool addition that will appeal to some users more than others, but it does help the Alpha 2 Wireless stand out.

Stay tuned, because as you're reading this I'm in Los Angeles with HP, going hands-on with these new products. My initial impressions will be appearing on Windows Central soon.

Razer’s latest controller, the Wolverine V3 Pro 8K PC, blends cutting-edge TMR stick technology with the 8000Hz HyperPolling rate first seen in the Razer Viper 8K Hz mouse. The new pro controller is available now for $199.90.

The controller features four mouse click back buttons, two claw grip bumpers, and Razer Pro HyperTriggers. It also has mecha-tactile PBT action buttons and an eight-way floating D-Pad.

The caps of the thumbsticks are swappable, and you can remap the back buttons and claw grip bumpers of the controller.

That's a lot of jargon if all you care about is how a controller feels in your hand and how responsive it is. If you'd like to geek out with me about how the TMR tech in the controller delivers precise inputs by using ferromagnetism and quantum tunneling, read on.

If you just want an excellent controller for PC gaming that's quick, comfortable, and responsive, feel free to skip the tech breakdown below.

What is TMR?

For decades, the vast majority of game controllers used resistors and relied on physical contact for input. That setup is seen in Xbox and PlayStation controllers as well as gamepads for mobile devices.

Parts that move wear down over time, even more so when multiple moving parts rub against each other. That's why so many controllers develop stick drift.

TMR stands for Tunneling Magnetoresistance. The technology uses ferromagnetism and quantum tunneling to detect signals, which is how controllers with TMR sticks support precise inputs.

Because TMR controllers have contactless magnetic sensing technology, they don't wear down or develop stick drift.

You may be more familiar with another magnet technology seen in controllers: Hall Effect. Like TMR, Hall Effect also uses contactless sensing technology.

But there are differences in how Hall Effect and TMR sticks detect movement that result in different gaming experiences.

TMR relies on detecting changes in electrical resistance caused by magnetic fields. Hall Effect technology detects voltage changes.

Because of this, TMR sticks are able to detect more precise movements.

Our Jennifer Young discussed her experience with TMR sticks in our PB Tails Metal Crush Defender TMR controller review:

"I was skeptical about whether I’d notice much difference between TMR sticks and the Hall Effect sticks on my GameSir G7 SE, but the Metal Crush controller blew me away. The sticks feel incredible, moving as smoothly as a hot knife through butter."

TMR has other advantages over Hall Effect, including using less power.

It will be interesting to see how the Razer Wolverine V3 Pro 8K PC stacks up with other controllers. There are still very few TMR gamepads on the market. The Razer Wolverine V3 Pro uses Hall Effect sticks, so we should be able to compare TMR and Hall Effect tech on similar controllers soon.

What is polling rate?

The TMR sticks of the Razer Wolverine V3 Pro 8K PC will garner attention due to their novelty. But the headline feature of the controller, and the first thing Razer mentions in its press release, is the 8000Hz polling rate of the gamepad.

Polling rate refers to the frequency a device, such as a mouse or gamepad, reports data to a PC. Higher polling rate correlates to lower latency, though the relationship can be a bit complicated.

You'll see diminishing returns in reducing transmission delay as you increase polling rate, but there is a sizeable difference between the standard 1000Hz and the 8000Hz seen in pro hardware.

GameMax has a fascinating breakdown of the relationship between polling rate and latency, including how transmission delay affects total latency.

The 8000Hz HyperPolling technology in the Razer Wolverine V3 Pro 8K PC results in lower input delay than many of the best gaming mice.

Standard gaming mice usually have a 1000Hz polling rate. As you move to more premium gamepads, you'll often see 2000Hz or 4000Hz polling rates.

Very few Wireless mice have an 8000Hz polling rate, though that list got longer when Razer released its HyperPolling Wireless Dongle. The Razer Wolverine V3 Pro 8K PC delivers the same speed when connected wirelessly or through a wire.

I have genuinely grown to love ASUS' laptops over the last few years, but I'll be honest and tell you that the company's accessories have historically never impressed me. When I reviewed products like the ASUS ROG Delta II gaming headset, ASUS failed to shift the needle in a meaningful way.

I frankly didn't have high hopes for the ASUS ROG Azoth X, an ultra-premium wireless gaming keyboard going up against some real heavy hitters from companies like Razer. Now that I've actually used this keyboard for a while, I can admit that ASUS surprised me.

Will I start recommending the ROG Azoth X to all my friends and family? Absolutely not, this is still a $300 keyboard — and one with plenty of imperfections at that. Still, I do really like this keyboard, and it's good enough to make me pay more attention to what ASUS does with accessories in the future.

A divisive design backed by actually good hardware

Once again, while in the midst of a candid mood, I only agreed to review the ASUS ROG Azoth X because of its distinct (but divisive) design. With a clean, white keyboard at its base, ASUS' default keycap set marries black, bright reds, and subtle blue hues in a glorious mess strewn with classic ROG iconography.

I wouldn't blame anyone for being turned off by this design in the same vein that I wouldn't judge anyone for being drawn to this design. ASUS is one of the few major companies still holding on to that infamous "gamer" aesthetic, and in the Azoth X, I do think it fits rather well.

It's a mostly plastic construction, and while this keyboard is put together well, it doesn't quite feel like a $300 keyboard. At least ASUS didn't cut any corners with the internals, as you're looking at a gasket-mounted design with five sound-dampening layers, an FR4 positioning plate, south-facing PCB, three-sided translucent dye-sublimated keycaps, an integrated OLED display and control dial, and ASUS' rather nice linear and tactile ROG NX V2 Mechanical Switches.

A USB Type-C port for charging and wired connectivity, a dedicated garage to store your 2.4GHz wireless dongle, a switch to change between connectivity modes (including Bluetooth), two-stage stands, an included color-matched silicon wrist rest — the ROG Azoth X gives you all of it, and you also get Windows and macOS keys included in the box alongside a two-in-one tool for swapping out the keycaps and switches.

So, I like the design and I (mostly) like the hardware, but what is it like to actually use this keyboard? Spoiler, I also like it.

The typing and gaming experience with the ROG Azoth X is lovely. The layout makes sense and is clearly labeled, the switches feel consistent and responsive, the keycaps have a great texture to them that doesn't cling to every smudge and stain, and the typing acoustics are great (although the spacebar is noticeably clunkier than the rest of the keys, and the difference does bug me a little).

Performance is fantastic, and the ROG Azoth X does support "Speed Tap," which is the last keystroke prioritization feature we've been seeing in all the best gaming keyboards lately.

You can configure everything you need to through ASUS' solid Armoury Crate software, but there's even a lightweight web-based version if this is your only ASUS product. If you do have more than one ASUS product, you can connect one more supported ASUS accessory to the Azoth X's wireless dongle and free up an extra port.

Honestly, I've really enjoyed this keyboard... so, what's the catch?

You don't need to spend $300 on a keyboard, and there's a better option if you do

If you've seen how much the ASUS ROG Azoth X costs, you already know what its biggest weakness is. Very few people are willing to drop $300 just on their keyboard, especially when you can get some incredible boards for a whole lot less.

Just to pick out one example, I recently reviewed the Keychron K8 HE, a $130 80% keyboard that boasts hot-swappable magnetic switches and keycaps, per-key RGB lighting, tri-mode connectivity, and web-based software. The Azoth X is the nicer keyboard, but is it $170 nicer? I don't think so, at least.

Even if you do want the best of the best and you're willing to pay for it, there's an obvious alternative to the ASUS ROG Azoth X that I flat out like more, and that's the Razer BlackWidow V4 Pro 75% I reviewed.

That keyboard also costs $300, but the design is sleeker, the build quality is higher, the typing and gaming experience is superior, the RGB lighting is brighter and more vibrant, and the software is more feature-packed. I still criticized the BlackWidow V4 Pro 75% for costing $300, but it justifies that price tag more than the Azoth X does.

The only area where this keyboard genuinely impresses over other options is its endurance. I've been surprised by how long this keyboard lasts on a charge, even with RGB lighting enabled. ASUS did a good job on that front.

ROG Azoth X review: My final thoughts

✅You should buy this if ...

• You love the distinct multi-tone design and keycap set.
• You other ASUS products and want everything under the same roof.
• You don't mind dropping $300 just for that little extra something.

❌You should not buy this if ...

• You want a keyboard that offers great bang for your buck.
• You can get the Razer BlackWidow V4 Pro 75% for the same price.

When I saw how much the ASUS ROG Azoth X actually cost and given some of my past experiences with ASUS accessories, I'll admit my expectations were lowered considerably. Now that I've used this keyboard for hours, I've been converted — even if that $300 price tag still stings.

The build quality could be better, the OLED display is still of dubious usefulness (that's true for any keyboard with an OLED display), the spacebar feels radically different from the rest of the keys, the RGB lighting isn't particularly vibrant, and the design is decidedly divisive. All those minor complaints add up when you're spending so much.

The Razer BlackWidow V4 Pro 75% has its own share of similarly impactful flaws, but it's still a much better keyboard overall. If you're going to spend $300 anyway, get that one instead. If you don't want to spend $300, why are you here? If you fall in that in-between area and find the ROG Azoth X on sale, though, this is a really good keyboard.

You can buy the ASUS ROG Azoth X wireless gaming keyboard for $299.99 at BestBuy.com or $299.99 at Amazon.com right now.

When I reviewed the Razer BlackShark V2 Pro (2023), I named it one of the very best wireless gaming headsets you could buy. A year later, and we finally got a console-friendly version that was just as good — but it could obviously be better.

Now we finally have the Razer BlackShark V3 Pro, and... I can't believe how big of a jump this is. When Razer briefed me on its new flagship esports-focused headset, I was rendered speechless by the ceaseless list of improvements and upgrades, all while preserving the same iconic design language.

It may be more expensive and a little heavier now, but the Razer BlackShark V3 Pro is the closest to perfection I've ever seen a gaming headset reach. It's made even better that we don't have to wait for Xbox and PlayStation versions.

I don't often do this, but I'm putting my recommendation front and center. If your budget is $250 for a high-performance wireless gaming headset, then save yourself some time and go get the Razer BlackShark V3 Pro for $249.99 at BestBuy.com.

Yeah, let's just summarize those upgrades real quick

Some of you may accuse me of being dramatic if I don't lay it out loud and clear, so I'm starting by listing all the noticeable improvements Razer made with the new BlackShark V3 Pro.

• Upgraded audio. The BlackShark V3 Pro upgrades to Razer's new TriForce Bio-Cellulose 50mm Gen-2 drivers, which are basically bigger and better versions of the drivers in the ultra-premium Razer Kraken V4 Pro I reviewed.
  • Not content with just that, Razer also added THX Spatial Audio 7.1.4 support, which adds four virtual speakers above your head when you want that surround sound effect. The BlackShark V3 Pro supports the Xbox and PlayStation spatial audio equivalents, too.
• Bigger microphone. The BlackShark V2 Pro already had one of the best microphones on any headset, but Razer made it even better by increasing the physical size of the HyperClear Super Wideband microphone from 9mm to 12mm, and increased the sampling rate from 32KHz to 48KHz while it was at it.
• Improved performance. This headset is designed with competitive gaming in mind (especially first-person shooters), so improved performance was a guarantee.
  • The greatest performance upgrade comes from Razer's new HyperSpeed Wireless Gen-2. Yes, Razer HyperSpeed actually got a next-gen upgrade with greater efficiency and stability, but Razer also reduced the wireless latency to a mere 10ms — easily the best in the industry.
  • Razer has continued working with esports athletes to develop professionally tuned audio profiles for six of the most popular FPS games, and you can now store a total of 9 unique audio profiles on the BlackShark V3 Pro.
• Refined ergonomics. Razer may have kept the same overall design language, but the BlackShark V3 Pro is still a lot more refined in a lot of ways.
  • The yoke design has returned, but it's further reinforced and now has a 15-degree swivel joint to provide a better fit to everyone's unique head shape.
  • The Memory Foam ear cushions are just as comfortable as ever, but Razer designed a new dual-layer fabric that uses leatherette for superior noise isolation underneath cloth for improved breathability.
  • The design has been refined in other ways, too, like more distinct textures for the onboard controls and adding swappable magnetic faceplates (which have nothing to do with comfort, but could be great for customization).
• Better support. Unlike the BlackShark V2 Pro, Razer's latest flagship gaming headset is coming out of the gate with PC, Xbox, and PlayStation versions — all available in black or white.
  • Not only do we already have console-specific versions, but they also fully support Razer Synapse on PC this time, so you don't have to choose one or the other.
  • The BlackShark V3 Pro can also do simultaneous Bluetooth and 2.4GHz audio mixing, so you can have a voice call on one and your game on the other, or whatever combination you need in the moment.
  • If you'd rather plug in, the BlackShark V3 Pro supports USB wired audio and even comes with a 3.5mm adapter for more traditional headphone jacks.
  • You can customize your BlackShark V3 Pro using the Razer Audio App on Android and iOS, the Razer Headset Setup app on Xbox, and the Razer Synapse app on PC — and the increased onboard memory will remember all your changes.
• More features. The BlackShark V3 Pro also gains some brand-new features. I already mentioned the simultaneous Bluetooth and 2.4GHz audio, but there are a couple more, too.
  • Razer has brought hybrid active noise cancellation to the BlackShark, with 4 microphones (2 internal and 2 external) dedicated to filtering out unwanted background noise to keep you in the game.
  • In addition to the new ANC button for cycling through modes, Razer also added a customizable roller to the BlackShark V3 Pro, which handles chat balancing by default, but can also uniquely increase just the sounds of footsteps to give you a competitive advantage.

Whoo, that's a lot. Let's actually talk about my experience using the Razer BlackShark V3 Pro now.

It'll be difficult for Razer to impress with the BlackShark V4

I already spent a lot of words just explaining what Razer did with the BlackShark V3 Pro, but the important question is if those upgrades actually make a difference. Um, yes. Yes, they do.

At first glance, the BlackShark V3 Pro isn't a major departure from its predecessor, but this headset is noticeably more comfortable to wear, especially for long periods. A lot of that comes down to the new swivel joint, which is important for the fit but also improves isolation.

It's still a predominantly plastic headset, but the BlackShark V3 Pro does feel very well put together, and there are a lot of fine details and accents that remind you that this is a premium headset, including real stitching on the headband that's color-matched to the version you bought (black for PC, green for Xbox, blue for PlayStation).

Razer also made the faceplates easily swappable via magnets; right now, Razer isn't selling custom options to make your BlackShark V3 Pro your own, but I can't imagine Razer made this deliberate design decision without some intent to take advantage of it.

The only downside is that the BlackShark V3 Pro is about 47g heavier than before, which is a noticeable increase. It's still extremely comfortable to wear, but the added baggage is worth noting.

Performance has also evolved by a significant degree, and for two main reasons. First are the new Bio-Cellulose 50mm Drivers Gen-2, which results in a much warmer and deeper sound profile similar to the Kraken V4 Pro headset, but with some precision, soundscape, and responsiveness improvements.

The BlackShark V3 Pro does sound excellent for gaming, music, movies, and everything in between, with powerful bass and sub-bass response and clean mids. Lots of onboard memory and a solid equalizer mean you can tailor the BlackShark V3 Pro to every use case.

I did notice some distortion at higher frequencies, especially when the active noise cancellation (ANC) is enabled, and this headset sometimes struggles when switching between audio profiles, becoming hollow-sounding overall for a few (long) seconds. Overall, though, the BlackShark V3 Pro is a substantial improvement over the 2023 model.

The second major performance upgrade? Razer HyperSpeed Wireless Gen-2, which debuted with the Razer DeathAdder V4 Pro gaming mouse I reviewed. The BlackShark V3 Pro sadly doesn't get the new wireless receiver design, but it does benefit from improved stability (even with a lot of interference from competing wireless signals) and lower latency.

Razer told me it probably could've made the latency even lower than 10ms, but there was no point — 10ms is how long it takes for a healthy brain to process audio, apparently. I can't really claim to tell the difference, but I can tell you the BlackShark V3 Pro sounds instant and is incredible with competitive gaming.

One area where the BlackShark V3 Pro is a bit shakier compared to its predecessor is with endurance. I wrote an editorial years ago about how it felt like it took forever to kill the BlackShark V2 Pro, and the new headset does boast similar longevity... but if you take advantage of its new features, like active noise cancellation and simultaneous audio mixing, you can absolutely kill it faster.

Speaking of ANC, the BlackShark V3 Pro utilizes 4 microphones (separate from its main mic, which you'll need for voice calls) to filter out unwanted noise, and it does work, albeit subtly. The BlackShark V3 Pro certainly isn't usurping Sony or Bose for the best ANC headphones any time soon, but the ANC does make a (positive) difference, and you do get a fair amount of control over it, including an ambient mode that is equally fine.

I also understand why it exists for marketing reasons, but the PC-only BlackShark V3 Pro does feel pointless this time around. The Xbox and PlayStation versions rightfully have full compatibility and feature parity with Windows PC (apart from the PlayStation version missing the Halo-focused audio profile), so there's no real reason to get the PC-only version.

BlackShark V3 Pro review: My final thoughts

✅You should buy this if ...

• You want a high-quality gaming headset that works across platforms.
• You want the best performance possible out of a wireless headset.
• You value features like ANC and a class-leading microphone.

❌You should not buy this if ...

• You won't take advantage of this headset's competitive performance.
• You need a headset for exclusively one platform (and want to save money).

What even is left for Razer to do? Perhaps the BlackShark V4 Pro will be a bit lighter, and last a bit longer, and sound a bit better, and block out background noise a bit more, but fundamentally, it feels like Razer truly nailed it with this iteration.

Razer took every piece of legitimate criticism from every review (mine included), and actively worked to fix those weaknesses with this headset. It's the culmination of years of refinement and innovation, and the end result is easily one of the best Xbox and PC gaming headsets ever made.

The BlackShark V3 Pro may cost $50 higher starting out, but it's worth every penny you spend on it, even if you're not the most competitive gamer to walk the earth. If you'd like to save money, the standard Razer BlackShark V3 seems to basically be the BlackShark V2 Pro but with some upgrades (like simultaneous Bluetooth/2.4GHz audio) for just $150 — but bear in mind that I haven't personally used that headset.

With upgraded audio, active noise cancellation, and a bevy of other upgrades, the Razer BlackShark V3 Pro is an incredibly easy recommendation for $249.99 at BestBuy.com or $249.99 at Amazon.com. Xbox or PC, it doesn't matter — this is the headset I'm using from now on, and it's all because Razer actually listened to us.

GameSir has become one of my top companies for getting high-quality and high-value gaming controllers, so much so that I made sure to take some time to visit GameSir's booth during CES 2025.

Since I discovered GameSir, my biggest wish was for the company to make a wireless Xbox controller, and it seemed my desire had been granted; during that CES visit, I went hands-on with an early version of the GameSir G7 Pro.

Teasers appeared to confirm what I had been led to believe — the G7 Pro was wireless across all platforms, including Xbox. Once the controller was actually on the verge of release, though, it was revealed that Xbox players have once again been snubbed (most likely because of Microsoft's weird rules with Xbox Wireless, not necessarily because of GameSir).

My disappointment was immeasurable, but I still wanted to test the G7 Pro. I found that this is easily one of the best controllers you can buy right now, especially if you want to spend less than $100... but you'll still need a wire on Xbox. Fortunately, GameSir told me that could change in the future.

So much value packed into a single controller

When I reviewed the GameSir G7 SE, I was impressed by the value the modest wired controller provided. The G7 Pro takes that foundation and packs in a whole lot more (plus wireless connectivity) without breaking the $100 barrier.

You get a sturdy plastic construction with proper rubberized grips, a removeable faceplate (with a transparent shell underneath) and swappable D-Pad, quad rumble motors, a total of four additional remappable buttons, optical micro-switch face buttons, a charging stand included in the box, and tri-mode connectivity between 2.4GHz wireless (Windows PC), Bluetooth (mobile devices), and wired (Xbox and PC).

The G7 Pro also uses GameSir's more advanced Tunneling Magnetoresistance (TMR) thumbsticks for even greater durability and precision (and a better feel), and uses classic Hall Effect tech for the analog triggers — which themselves have built-in micro-switch trigger stops.

There's even a gyroscope that works with Windows PC, and GameSir's already-great app on Xbox and PC got a major upgrade with new features and options. That's a lot of controller for $80, and the G7 Pro really does feel awesome in the hand.

I won't go so far as to say this controller is perfect. The analog triggers are a little shallow for my tastes. I wish the rear remappable buttons were textured, the thumbsticks aren't swappable, and the D-Pad is mushy, no matter which version you use (there's a total of three D-Pad types included in the box).

I wish the charging stand used magnets to keep the G7 Pro in place while charging, and while there's a very convenient garage for storing the wireless receiver in the stand, I also wish the stand itself could act as the receiver for a more streamlined solution.

Those are minor complaints, though, and the GameSir G7 Pro is flat out better in some ways than our favorite Razer Wolverine V3 Pro (which I helped review). That controller costs more than twice as much, but doesn't include a charging stand, Bluetooth support, or more advanced TMR sticks.

Of course, the Wolverine V3 Pro's controls are higher quality overall, you get swappable thumbsticks and an included carrying case, and — most importantly — you get Xbox Wireless support.

Xbox still needs a wire, but a new version is coming

I've really been enjoying using the GameSir G7 Pro. Honestly, I prefer its ergonomics over the far more premium Razer Wolverine V3 Pro, and its performance is nearly as good across the board.

GameSir knows how to make a great controller, and the G7 Pro is certainly the best it has done so far. I simply can't get over the fact that we've gotten so close to an actual wireless Xbox controller from GameSir, only to fall short right at the finish line.

I'll be going back to the Wolverine V3 Pro after this review, because I have a child and a cat who like to forget there's a wire connected to my Xbox. The GameSir G7 Pro is very nearly the better controller in my eyes (and it costs less than half the price), but I'm holding out for a wireless Xbox version.

I actually asked GameSir why it didn't happen with the G7 Pro, and while I can't share everything I learned, I was told that GameSir is planning to release a new version of the GameSir G7 Pro in the near future that will support Xbox Wireless.

Don't accept this as an official announcement, as details may and often do change as plans develop, but GameSir told me it's targeting around $100 for a special co-branded Xbox edition of the G7 Pro. It's actually happening, but we sadly have to wait a little longer.

GameSir G7 Pro review: My final thoughts

✅You should buy this if ...

• You want a feature-packed, multi-platform wireless controller.
• You don't want to spend more than $100 on a pro-grade controller.
• You mostly game on PC and can also take advantage of Bluetooth.

❌You should not buy this if ...

• You want a wireless Xbox controller (just wait a little longer).
• You're really particular about your D-Pads.

I'm eagerly waiting for the GameSir G7 Pro Xbox Edition (or whatever it'll be called), because there's a very good chance it'll be my favorite controller of all time, beating out the Razer Wolverine V3 Pro, the Xbox Wireless Controller, and all the rest.

I hope GameSir also takes the opportunity to refine the wireless Xbox-specific G7 Pro in the same way it refined the standard G7 with later versions. If you need ideas, GameSir, I listed some above for you (wink wink).

While I'm adding to the wishlist, I love how the "Shadow Ember" colorway of the G7 Pro looks — GameSir, please make a purple version of that faceplate. Thanks in advance.

Right now, the GameSir G7 Pro really is a fantastic controller, and it's extremely diverse with three ways to connect to your devices. If you do game on Xbox, though, I personally suggest waiting a little longer for the next G7 Pro.

If PC is where you like to hang, the GameSir G7 Pro is an unbeatable deal for $80, and you can check it out for $79.99 at Amazon or $79.99 at Best Buy (pre-orders begin shipping on Jul. 22, so I assume the controller will become more widely available after that).

There's no shortage of awesome gaming headsets to add to your setup, but your options are more limited if you need a wireless headset that works with Xbox consoles, too.

That's just the nature of Xbox Wireless, but you still don't have to pay extra for a great headset. SteelSeries has added a new option to the mix with the Arctis Nova 3X Wireless, the Nova-fied redesign of its uber-popular Arctis 1 Wireless headset from yesteryear (which we reviewed).

I've been using it for a few weeks now, and I've been really impressed by this headset's design and featureset for the price point — and I absolutely adore that SteelSeries is actually offering more than just black and white colors. The Arctis Nova 3X isn't perfect, but it's still a really solid wireless Xbox option for those wanting to spend around $100.

A lightweight headset with some actual personality

First, the Arctis Nova 3X does adopt the same design language we've seen from other Nova products, with the two-tier circular earcup design and slim profile. The Arctis Nova 3X looks great, and its detachable microphone makes it more than sleek enough for use as a normal pair of wireless headphones.

This is an all-plastic headset, which is a double-edged sword. On one hand, the Arctis Nova 3X is insanely light at only 260g, so you barely feel it on your head. On the other, it does feel quite cheap in the hand, with a fair amount of creaking.

I've seen for myself how much abuse the Arctis Nova 3X can take, though, so in this case, "cheap" doesn't mean "fragile" — you shouldn't have to worry about this headset too much if you pass it to your children.

The Arctis Nova 3X also has some give and take when it comes to ergonomics. Breathable fabric earpads with a healthy amount of cushioning and a wide suspension headband work in tandem with that ultralight design to make this a very comfortable headset, but the Arctis Nova 3X is on the small side — even on the largest settings, it still barely fit me, so those with larger heads may struggle.

What I love more than anything, though, is that SteelSeries actually gave the Arctis Nova 3X some color. The standard black and white colors are here, of course, but you also get "Aqua" and "Lavendar" options... or blue and purple, if you're normal.

These colors are more "pastel" than "neon," so they may not be as punchy as you'd like, but I have both in hand, and the Arctis Nova 3X looks great. For the eagle-eyed, these are the same fun and cheerful colors offered by the SteelSeries Rival 3 (Gen 2) Wireless mouse I reviewed, so you can color-match your setup on a budget.

In so many ways, personal technology has become unbearably monochrome over the last few years, a symptom of the obsession with "minimalist" design. Just having some fun color options gives the SteelSeries Arctis Nova 3X a leg up in my book, but it does also help that it's a solid headset.

Features are there, but performance isn't always

The Arctis Nova 3X is equipped with some pretty impressive hardware for the price, including 40mm Neodymium Magnet drivers with spatial audio support, a high-resolution noise-canceling microphone, and both 2.4GHz and Bluetooth wireless connectivity.

On the audio front, this headset is good — if not amazing — for the price. There's a good amount of punch in the low end, with great detail and responsiveness in the mids and highs, but the overall soundstage is on the narrow side.

There's also a persistent, soft static in the background, something that you may hear with other headphones at higher volumes — but seems to be always present with the Arctis Nova 3X. Any music or audio immediately drowns it out, but it does affect clarity.

The microphone is a major improvement over SteelSeries' earlier budget wireless headsets, though, with respectable depth and detail, as well as actually functional background noise cancelation. I can't imagine many will complain about this microphone for only $110.

Where the Arctis Nova 3X slips is in performance. Having both 2.4GHz and Bluetooth lets this headset connect to basically any device (including Xbox, as long as you switch the dongle over), but stability wasn't the best.

The Arctis Nova 3X was prone to interference and skips, and often refused to properly connect to my Xbox without switching the dongle over to PC and back again. I also genuinely can't tell you how good the new SteelSeries mobile app is for customizing the Arctis Nova 3X, because it absolutely refused to connect properly (a common problem, it seems, if you go off Google Play Store reviews).

None of these problems made the Arctis Nova 3X bad to use, and the SteelSeries GG app on Windows PC was more than enough for customizing the EQ and other headset settings, but those planning to use the Arctis Nova 3X primarily with their phone and Xbox can't rely on the mobile app, and those who need the absolute best wireless performance for competitive gaming can't rely on the Arctis Nova 3X 100% of the time.

I've no such issues with battery life, though. SteelSeries quotes up to 40 hours of continued usage, and that feels perfectly accurate from my testing. It's also easy to charge via USB Type-C, netting you hours of use with just minutes of charging.

Arctis Nova 3X Wireless review: My final thoughts

✅You should buy this if ...

• You want a cheap wireless headset for Xbox, PC, and mobile.
• You love fun colors and are tired of the same black/white designs.
• You need a lightweight headset that can take a beating.

❌You should not buy this if ...

• You need the most reliable wireless performance (or a working mobile app).
• You need a larger headset for a comfortable fit.

Quick overview: the SteelSeries Arctis Nova 3X Wireless is a really good wireless gaming headset for around $100, especially since it's compatible with Windows PC, Xbox consoles, mobile devices, and more.

The wireless performance isn't the best (and the mobile app flat out won't work for me), and I have some other complaints for this value-driven headset — but it's fun, durable, and packs a surprising number of features.

The SteelSeries Arctis Nova 3X Wireless is available for $109.99 at Amazon or $109.99 at Best Buy, making it one of the best Xbox headsets for those on a budget... but if you can drop the extra cash, the Turtle Beach Stealth 700 (Gen 3) we reviewed is still the champion at $200.

Razer is easily one of the biggest brands in PC gaming, and that renown has opened the doors to a lot of collaborations with other high-profile brands and franchises... including Pokémon, the creature-collecting phenomenon that has captured the hearts of millions (myself included).

Razer's previous Pokémon collaborations have been confined to very specific regions, though, leaving the majority of fans left out of the fun. Finally, Razer has collaborated with Pokémon on a complete collection of PC gaming accessories that more people can buy — but will you actually want to spend your money on this gear?

I've been fortunate enough to go hands on with the latest Razer x Pokémon collection, which features the most iconic critters from the original generation... but I also find myself slightly disappointed in these designs. Does that mean you shouldn't splash your hard-earned cash on these accessories? That's for you to decide.

Unboxing the Razer x Pokémon Collection

When I went hands-on with the Razer x Kuromi Collection, I loved the designs but lamented the use of Razer's entry-level accessories. Fast-forward to the Razer x Minecraft Collection that I sadly wasn't able to see myself, and the company went up a tier to accessories that more gamers would actually want to use.

The new Razer x Pokémon Collection uses those same accessories, but obviously with all-new designs featuring Pikachu, Bulbasaur, Squirtle, and Charmander from the original 151 Pokémon of the Kanto region.

The unboxing experience is utterly identical to the standard variants, but you do get the colorful boxes that would look nice in any collection.

Here's what the new collection includes:

• Razer Kraken V4 X Pokémon Edition for $99.99 at Razer (instead of $79.99 for the standard version)
• Razer Cobra Pokémon Edition for $59.99 at Razer (instead of $39.99 for the standard version)
• Razer Gigantus V2 Pokémon Edition (Medium) for $29.99 at Razer (instead of $9.99 for the standard version)
• Razer BlackWidow V4 X for $169.99 at Razer (instead of $129.99 for the standard version)

You're looking at a $100 premium overall compared to buying these Razer accessories without the special Pokémon design, which matches the Minecraft collection. It's the nature of licensing brands like Pokémon, but I'm still not a fan of paying three times as much for the mouse pad and 50% more for the mouse.

Just keep in mind you'll no longer be paying budget prices for these budget accessories — these colorful designs cost extra.

Going hands-on with these colorful accessories

I still wish Razer would have more fun with its premium offerings, but the Pokémon Collection includes some capable, well-liked wired accessories, each with good performance and customizable RGB lighting.

There's not a ton to say about the products themselves — the Kraken V4 X headset, Cobra mouse, and BlackWidow V4 X all get the job done where they're priced, and you're paying extra for that Pokémon skin.

Like other limited edition collections, Razer didn't slap on a cheap paint job and call it a day. Build quality seems great, and there's no risk of extended use destroying the Pokémon designs you paid for.

The Razer Kraken V4 X is easily my favorite of the bunch, with its loud and bold yellow and slightly more understated Pokémon motifs featuring cutout faces of Kanto's three (or four, depending on who you ask) starters.

On the other side, the Razer BlackWidow V4 X is my least favorite. Apart from a "Pokémon" logo on the space bar and Pokéballs on the "Alt" keys, this keyboard blankets itself with those random disembodied Pokémon heads and little else.

Razer could've done better with this collection in general, design-wise.

Overcoming the challenge of distinct design

When my colleague went hands-on with the Razer x Minecraft Collection, he praised that BlackWidow V4 X as being one of the best-looking keyboards he has used. I have to agree — Razer did an excellent job with that design, with a full set of green key caps and fun easter eggs.

By comparison, the Pokémon Collection feels like a step back. It's a side effect of trying to represent four entirely different critters on one accessory, resulting in this repetitive livery that leaves little room for distinct design.

The Kraken V4 X and Cobra accessories are better because they use that repeating design of floating Pokémon faces in moderation, with pure yellow as the foundation — but I still wonder if Razer could've gone even further.

You're already paying 25-200% more just for the Pokémon variants of these PC gaming accessories, so I don't think it's outlandish to expect more, like custom keycaps shaped like our favorite Pokémon or a unique design for each accessory.

Still, this is a fun collection for Pokémon fans, whether you're looking to add to the collection or personalize your gaming setup. If you're interested in any of these products, you can buy them now from $29.99 at Razer in the United States, Latin America, Europe, Australia, and New Zealand.

One of the best-selling gaming mouse families in the world belongs to Razer with the esports-focused DeathAdders, which are also extremely popular among professional players.

The Razer DeathAdder V3 Pro that we reviewed has been a fan-favorite for nearly three years now, but it's time to pass the crown. The DeathAdder V4 Pro has arrived, and it's a genuinely insane mouse — even though it looks positively boring.

I've already been using the brand-new DeathAdder flagship for a week or two now, and my review is coming soon. I'll share my initial thoughts, but those of you who heard "new DeathAdder" and reached for their wallet can get the Razer DeathAdder V4 Pro for $169.99 at Razer starting today.

What's actually different with the latest DeathAdder mouse?

Razer typically reserves new version numbers for substantial design updates, but the DeathAdder V4 Pro looks nearly identical to its predecessor. Extremely subtle alterations and slightly more spaced-out side buttons aren't exactly exciting, but that's because all the good stuff is on the inside.

In fact, it's easier just to give you a list.

• Razer Focus Pro 45K Optical Sensor Gen-2 — First, the DeathAdder V4 Pro debuts the highest performance sensor Razer has ever made, supporting 45,000 dots-per-inch (up from 30,000), 900 inches-per-second (up from 750), 85 G max acceleration (up from 70 G), and single increment DPI adjustments.
• Razer Optical Mouse Switches Gen-4 — Razer's critically acclaimed optical mouse switches have been redesigned from the ground up for the first time since their inception, resulting in superior debounce delay, a longer 100-million clicks life cycle (up from 90 million), and a more responsive and tactile feel.
• Razer HyperSpeed Wireless Gen-2 — A third major debut for the DeathAdder V4 Pro, Razer has unveiled a next-generation upgrade for its HyperSpeed Wireless technology, which promises industry-leading latency, stability, and efficiency.
• Redesigned HyperPolling dongle — The new HyperSpeed Wireless is made possible by the redesigned HyperPolling dongle (included in the box), which features a new spherical shape that is significantly more stable and less prone to moving, and has built-in LED indicators that can be customized to give you at-a-glance information.
• Razer Optical Scroll Wheel — Razer also created its first optical scroll wheel for the DeathAdder V4 Pro, which offers higher precision and greater reliability, as well as lasting over three times as long as mechanical scroll wheels.
• Reduced weight and longer battery life — All of this, and the DeathAdder V4 Pro weighs less (56-57g versus 63-64g) and lasts a lot longer on a charge (up to 150 hours versus up to 90 hours).
• New Razer Synapse features — The DeathAdder V4 Pro boasts new software features, too, including Smart Polling Rate Switching, Dynamic Sensitivity, Mouse Rotation, Smart Tracking, Motion Sync, and more.

Yeah, there's a lot. But does it really make a difference?

How does it feel to use the new DeathAdder V4 Pro?

The Razer DeathAdder V4 Pro is impressive enough on paper, but it's something else in the hand. It's just so unassuming at first glance, with its simple matte black, plastic design and smooth-touch finish.

Once you begin using it, though, the DeathAdder V4 Pro nails everything. The ergonomics, the tactility and responsiveness of every button, the frictionless gliding and effortlessly low weight, the pixel perfect precision and unmatched performance.

The DeathAdder V4 Pro feels like Razer's magnum opus, and I fully expect it to dominate esports circuits once professionals get their hands on it. I certainly don't possess the skills to make full use of this mouse's capabilities.

Even for a "casual" competitive gamer, though, the DeathAdder V4 Pro feels phenomenal to use. It has nearly ruined my beloved Razer Basilisk V3 Pro for me, even though I much prefer the design and ergonomics of that beefier peripheral (on that note, Razer, please give me the Basilisk V4 Pro with a lot of these upgrades).

An underrated upgrade is the new dongle. 8,000Hz polling out of the box makes the DeathAdder V4 Pro feel like a better value than the DeathAdder V3 Pro (which is only $10 less if you get the optional HyperPolling dongle), and the new dongle is way better.

It actually stays in place, the connectivity is better, and the LED indicators are actually useful. You can customize each light to provide different information, too, including battery level, connectivity strength, polling rate, and more. It's a big deal.

I'll need more time with the DeathAdder V4 Pro to see if my initial impressions hold over dozens of hours of usage, and whether Razer's claims of performance, battery life, and stability are 100% accurate, but I'm not worried. This mouse is almost guaranteed to be a slam dunk for players.

The Razer DeathAdder V4 Pro is rolling out for $169.99 at Razer starting today.

It's officially Amazon Prime Day, and you all know what that means — endless discounts, most of them garbage and not worthy of your attention.

We're picking through the trash to find the gems, though, including the GameSir G7 SE for $37.99 at Amazon. This is one of the best Xbox controllers for those on a budget, so any discount on top of that is great!

Except... You can actually get the GameSir G7 SE for $35.99 at Walmart, and you don't need an Amazon Prime membership to take advantage of that deal. Seems like an obvious choice.

It's not wireless, but it's still one hell of a controller

• Shop all Prime Day deals at Amazon

I've already mentioned this GameSir G7 SE deal in my round-up of the best tech I've reviewed that's on sale for Amazon Prime Day, but it's also worth giving this controller its own time to shine in the spotlight.

GameSir has quickly grown to be a reputable brand for controllers across all platforms and form factors, and the G7 SE was what sealed my love for the company. I desperately want GameSir to make a wireless Xbox controller (my dream may finally come true in the future), but its wired controllers are some of the best you can buy.

The GameSir G7 SE has a clean, ergonomic design with Hall Effect thumbsticks and triggers, dual remappable rear buttons, convenient chat and microphone controls baked into the D-Pad, and helpful GameSir software available on Xbox and PC.

Performance is excellent, the controls feel responsive and tactile, and there's almost no risk of stick drift developing over time (like is so common with so many controllers, including the standard Xbox Wireless Controller).

It hits all the most important parts of building a great controller, including a long and braided USB Type-C to Type-A cable that securely connects to the G7 SE. That's a lot of value packed into $45, with more than a few reasons to consider the GameSir G7 SE over the Xbox Wireless Controller, even with the cable attached.

I said it all in my GameSir G7 SE review (even if it's a year-and-a-half old now) — this controller is one of the best Xbox accessories. Right now, you can also get it for less than usual.

The best deal on the GameSir G7 SE gets you the controller in white for $35.99 at Walmart, with no membership needed. You can also get the G7 SE in orange or purple for $37.99 at Walmart.

Amazon will demand you have a Prime membership to take advantage of its deal, so the only reason to consider that is if you really want the GameSir G7 SE in blue, which is $37.99 at Amazon.

PC gaming is more popular than ever as nearly every videogame publisher under the sun is committing to releasing their upcoming titles on this platform. As a result, the demand for top-of-the-line gaming mice has grown astronomically, and few fulfill that need better than the Razer DeathAdder V3 Pro.

This wireless gaming mouse with long-lasting batteries, responsive inputs, and comfy ergonomics normally runs for a high MSRP of $149.99. With the advent of Amazon Prime Day, however, it's now been reduced by 42% for a more affordable fee of $86.44 at Amazon with an active Amazon Prime membership.

Why is the Razer DeathAdder V3 Pro worth buying?

When it comes to third-party gaming accessories, I always turn to Razer.

For many years, this company has produced some of the best peripherals I've ever owned for both PC gaming and console gaming, like the Razer Wolverine V2 Chroma controller or the Razer Huntsman V2, to name a few.

Another shining example of Razer's credible gaming accessory pedigree is the Razer DeathAdder V3 Pro. This gaming mouse is one of the best PC gaming accessories around as it's designed to help your gaming experiences be more enjoyable with improved input reading and handling.

It's got a sleek, lightweight, ergonomic-friendly design that makes it comfy to hold without straining your wrists for long periods of gaming.

The Razer DeathAdder V3 Pro also comes equipped with six very responsive buttons (five of which can be reprogrammed to suit your playstyle), 90 hours of battery life before needing to recharge, and a Focus Pro 30K Optical Sensor with Acceleration Performance rates of 70G and 750g inches per second max speed to help detect mouse movement with sharp precision.

The mouse also includes Optical Mouse Switches Gen-3 to improve input detection of the buttons by giving them 90 million actuations with zero debounce delay. It can be outfitted with either a 1000Hz dongle or a 4,000Hz HyperPolling Wireless Dongle to further improve mouse movement input detection.

For those who need a techno-jargon translation of what I just said: This advanced tech will help you make faster, pinpoint headshots in first-person shooters like Call of Duty or DOOM, or perform evasive maneuvers without any input delay in fast-paced action games like Elden Ring, Lies of P, or Monster Hunter.

That being said, there are a couple of nitpicks you may want to consider before picking this gaming mouse up.

For starters, while the Razer DeathAdder V3 Pro can be used for most game genres, it's not up to the task for playing MMORPGs like World of Warcraft, as those games require dozens upon dozens of buttons.

For MMORPGs, I recommend seeking out the Razer Naga V2 Pro, since that gaming mouse has many more side buttons designed for those types of games.

Another foible with the Razer DeathAdder V3 Pro is its MSRP, which runs very high at $149.99 at most retailers. A price like that for a gaming mouse is too rich for most gamers' blood, but fortunately, Amazon Prime Day is here to alleviate that by a great margin.

For a limited time, you can get your hands on one of the best gaming mice for a 42% discounted price tag of $86.44 at Amazon and save yourself $60 in the process.

Additionally, if you sign up for Amazon Prime Membership, you can get your gaming mouse shipped faster via same-day shipping and enjoy other benefits like multimedia streaming apps, access to exclusive discount deals, and more.

Amazon Prime Day is in full swing, giving us consumers a chance to buy our most wishlisted products at more affordable prices at our favorite local retailers. One such sought-after item is the WD_Black 1TB Storage Expansion Card for Xbox consoles.

This invaluable gadget gives Xbox players 1TB of extra space to fit in all their favorite games on Xbox consoles, and it is now on special offer for $124.77 $129.99 at Walmart (reduced from its MSRP of $149.99), which is an extra $5 discount over Amazon and Best Buy.

• Shop all Amazon Prime Day deals

Why should you buy the WD_Black C50?

As Xbox games continue to grow in scale and graphical detail, there are going to be times when you will need to add extra storage space for your Xbox Series X|S.

This is because the Xbox Series X|S's default 1TB of storage space is simply not enough anymore to keep up with the storage space needs of modern AAA titles.

For example, games like Call of Duty: Black Ops 6 or Final Fantasy XVI require over 100GB of storage space without DLC. And who knows just how space the hottest upcoming Xbox title in years, Grand Theft Auto 6, is going to take up?

So it's imperative that you get extra storage space for your console, and luckily, Western Digital has got your back with the WD_Black 1TB C50 Storage Expansion Card.

This handy-dandy gaming accessory comes with 1TB of extra storage space, a compact, durable design, and loading time and transfer time performance speeds on par with the Xbox Series X|S' internal storage unit.

The WD_Black is also easy to use, as you simply need to plug it into the back of your Xbox to make it function, and it's easy to carry around in your luggage while traveling, thanks to its small size.

When it first launched in 2023, the WD_Black only came with 512GB or 1TB storage space, but in recent years, there's now a 2TB version of this product to store more of your favourite Xbox titles.

This all sounds well and good, but that being said, there are some drawbacks to consider with the WD_Black C50.

This storage expansion card is a bit overkill if you plan on using it to play backward-compatible titles from the Xbox One, Xbox 360, and original Xbox, as they have much lower storage space requirements.

Plus, if you plan on using this device to store Xbox Series X|S games rather than play them directly from the storage device, you're better off purchasing a traditional external SSD for that purpose, like the Seagate Game Drive for Xbox SSD or the WD_BLACK P40 Game Drive SSD.

If those limitations don't bother you, then this Storage Expansion Card is a must-buy for Xbox players, especially for those looking for a storage device at an affordable price point.

I say this because what makes the WD_Black worth considering buying over its competitors, like the storage expansion cards from Seagate, is its price tag. Its MSRP is $149.99 at most retailers, which makes it $10 cheaper than its more expensive rival, the 1TB Seagate Xbox Storage Expansion.

With this anti-Amazon Prime Day discount deal from Walmart, the WD_Black's price tag has gotten even more affordable as it's now sitting at $124.77 $129.99 for a limited time.

That is over $5 cheaper than the Amazon Prime Day 13% discount offer from Amazon (which is selling it at $129.99) and $5 cheaper than the special deal Best Buy is holding for the Floral Edition of the WD_Black (also at $129.99).

So, if you want to get your hands on one of Xbox's best SSDs at a reasonable price tag, then this deal is for you.

The late 1990s and early 2000s were dominated by gaming consoles, handhelds, and accessories clad in colorful, translucent plastic. Many of us fondly remember those purple and green hues, like the iconic original Xbox, and lament how drab and grey most modern technology has become.

The last few years have seen a resurgence in transparent technology, though, with companies embracing the "retro" vibes with throwback designs and even entirely new approaches, like the Barebones One Xbox Edition mobile controller we tested.

I'm all for the returning trend, and one of the biggest names in gaming has joined the movement to bring transparent technology back to the forefront. Yes, Razer has announced a new colorway to join its black, pink, and silver/white designs, cladding some of its most popular accessories in translucent green.

This is the Razer Phantom Green Collection, and I've gone hands-on with it all. Here's why this is more than a simple reskin.

What is the Razer Phantom Green Collection?

Most Razer products come in the iconic matte black, but the company also offers devices and accessories in "Mercury" silver (Razer claims its "White" designs are different, but you'd be forgiven for not noticing or caring) and "Quartz" pink. Now we have a fourth option, at least for a handful of products.

"Phantom Green" isn't just green-and-black instead of black-and-green, though. Razer took four of its accessories and spent many, many hours considering how to make them translucent in a thorough and tasteful fashion.

Adjusted internal components, varying material and texture choices, countless iterations moving through shades and designs, all of it came together to create the Phantom Green Collection.

First up, you'll find the Razer Basilisk V3 Pro 35K Phantom Green Edition for $169.99 at Razer, a $10 upcharge over the black and white variants. We reviewed the Razer Basilisk V3 Pro wireless gaming mouse.

Next, we have the Razer Firefly V2 Pro Phantom Green Edition for $109.99 at Razer, once again a $10 upcharge. I reviewed the Razer Firefly V2 Pro mousepad.

Then you can get the Razer BlackWidow V4 75% Phantom Green Edition for $199.99 at Razer, the same price as the black and white versions. We reviewed the Razer BlackWidow V4 75% wired gaming keyboard.

Finally, we have the Razer Barracuda X Chroma Phantom Green Edition for $139.99 at Razer, also a $10 upcharge over the black and white models. I reviewed the Razer Barracuda X Chroma wireless gaming headset.

All of the Phantom Green products are functionally identical to their opaque cousins, with all the changes being purely aesthetic.

A gaming mouse and its best friend, a mousepad

I've reviewed a lot of gaming mice, but the Razer Basilisk V3 Pro (and now 35K) is still my favorite of all time. I was most excited to check this Phantom Green product out, and I was not disappointed.

The first thing I noticed is that the Phantom Green translucency is on the subtle side. It makes sense; Razer optimized the internals to look cleaner with the see-through design, but there's only so much Razer is able to change without compromising the quality, features, and performance.

On the other hand, I think the Basilisk V3 Pro wears the new translucent green incredibly well. The Razer Chroma RGB lighting is diffused through the plastic, spreading through the mouse for a considerably more dramatic lighting effect than the standard version.

The Razer Firefly V2 Pro, which is still my go-to mousepad, is even more subtle; Razer only made the top housing for the Firefly V2 Pro's components translucent, but it pairs great with the mouse.

A keyboard you can see right through

The keyboard I return to whenever I don't have anything new to test is the Razer BlackWidow V4 Pro 75% I reviewed, so I was already familiar with the foundation upon which the new non-Pro Phantom Green Edition is built.

This BlackWidow V4 75% boasts a wild aesthetic, and I love it. Almost every element is translucent in some way, and the keys more-so than anything else. That allows the full force of the per-key Chroma RGB lighting to shine through, once again increasing the punch.

Razer apparently put extra care into the appearance and feel of those keycaps, wanting to achieve a balanced translucent look without compromising performance or long-term durability. I can attest; the typing and gaming experience feels excellent with the Phantom Green Edition.

I actually recently built my own Razer BlackWidow V4 75% using the new Barebones base, which highlighted how you can take the Phantom Green Edition and do whatever you want with it. This is still a highly customizable keyboard, so you could create something crazy with it.

A headset to make your friends green with envy

The final product in the lineup is the only one that didn't earn my unreserved endorsement, but that's not to say the Barracuda X Chroma is a bad wireless gaming headset.

It's a fantastic product for those who want a balanced pair of headphones for gaming on their PC at home and listening to music or podcasts on their phone while out and about, and especially for those who highly value aesthetics.

With the Phantom Green Edition, the Barracuda X Chroma is even flashier, and the tasteful RGB lighting makes for a lovely accent that you can customize on the fly. The translucency is more subtle since we're talking about a densely packed headset, but it'll definitely catch some eyes.

I simply appreciate that — finally — Razer didn't pull from its most affordable, mass-produced offerings for a special edition collection. These are all high-quality accessories, and will make an awesome addition to any setup.

Now I just need Razer to do a Phantom Purple Collection.

The mobile gaming landscape has evolved by leaps and bounds the last few years, and mobile controllers are just one part of it.

Cloud gaming, full ports of native PC and console games, emulation — gaming on your phone or tablet has never been better. The brand-new Razer Kishi V3 Pro is for those who want to get the most out of that experience, and it's truly the ultimate mobile gaming controller.

I've been using this accessory with the Lenovo Legion Tab (Gen 3) I reviewed for a few weeks now, and it's clear Razer is serious about competing in this space. When it comes to ergonomics, performance, and features, the Kishi V3 Pro is one of the best you can buy.

It helps that there's a more affordable non-Pro version with many of the same benefits, and a new XL version for those who want to game on their full-sized iPad or Android tablet.

This review was made possible thanks to a review sample provided by Razer. Razer had no input nor saw the contents of this review prior to publication.

Kishi V3 Pro review: Cheat sheet

• What is it? A premium mobile gaming controller for iOS and Android smartphones and tablets.
• Who is it for? Those who want the absolute best mobile gaming experience with a full-sized controller.
• How much does it cost? The Razer Kishi V3 Pro is available for $149.99 at Razer. The Kishi V3 Pro XL for large tablets is $199.99 at Razer.
• What did I like? The excellent full-sized, ergonomic design, the reliable and responsive controls, the awesome Razer Nexus app.
• What did I not like? The large size, the regular Kishi V3 offering so much of the same experience for less.

Kishi V3 Pro review: Pricing and specifications

I'm reviewing the Razer Kishi V3 Pro, but there are actually three separate mobile controllers in this family.

The entry-level Kishi V3 retains the same design and controls, but loses features like the Sensa HD haptics, extra bumper buttons, and swappable thumbsticks. The Razer Kishi V3 retails for $99.99 at Razer, and is compatible with the same devices as the Kishi V3 Pro.

The Razer Kishi V3 Pro retails for $149.99 at Razer, and is the best option for those who want the ultimate mobile gaming experience with their smartphone or small tablet.

Finally, there's the Kishi V3 Pro XL, which is identical to the non-XL variant feature-wise, but is upscaled to support 10 to 13-inch iPad and Android tablets. The Razer Kishi V3 Pro XL retails for $199.99 at Razer.

In the box, you'll find the Razer Kishi V3 Pro mobile gaming controller, two sets of rubber bumpers for adjusting the controller to your device size, and two swappable thumbsticks (one tall concave and one short convex).

For those with iPhones and iPads, the Kishi V3 Pro also comes with 3 months of Apple Arcade, while the Kishi V3 Pro XL comes with 6 months. That particular perk doesn't apply to me, but you might find it valuable.

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Kishi V3 Pro review: What I like

In our Razer Kishi Ultra review, our own Jez Corden described it as an "opulent mobile gaming controller with a premium price tag." The Kishi V3 line is built on that same foundation, but Razer smartly expanded into budget and niche categories.

On the surface, the Kishi V3 Pro is nearly identical to the Kishi Ultra, and that means effectively splitting the Razer Wolverine V3 Pro we reviewed (and hailed as one of the best Xbox controllers ever) in two and giving you space to slot your phone or tablet.

Of course, that same design applies to all Kishi V3 controllers — full-sized grips, thumbsticks, and triggers that provide a true console-like experience wherever you happen to be gaming. In terms of ergonomics, the Kishi V3 Pro is leagues ahead of the average mobile controller.

That mentality extends to performance, as well; in fact, the Kishi V3 line is even more advanced than the premium Wolverine V3 Pro in some ways. On top of the mecha-tactile buttons (Razer's unique blend of mechanical and tactile switches) and remappable rear buttons using Razer's class-leading mouse switches, you also get Hall Effect triggers and cutting-edge Tunneling Magnetoresistance (TMR) thumbsticks.

What does that mean? Best-in-class precision, responsiveness, and reliability. The Kishi V3 line's Hall Effect triggers are fully customizable, and the TMR thumbsticks are essentially immune to dread stick drift.

The original Razer Kishi V2 we reviewed had its merits, but ultimately felt confined to a box: a controller designed for phones. By comparison, the Kishi V3 Pro and its siblings offers a genuinely brilliant gaming experience, to the point that being able to plug it into a PC and use it like a normal controller makes complete sense.

The Kishi V3 Pro is incredibly comfortable to hold, and the tactility and consistency of each button is excellent. The addition of four additional, remappable buttons (or two for the regular Kishi V3) only adds to the experience. I genuinely believe there's no other mobile controller that can fully compare.

If you're wondering what the extra $50 nets you when upgrading from the regular Razer Kishi V3 to the Kishi V3 Pro, it basically comes down to: two extra buttons (the "claw grip" bumper buttons) and the surprisingly good Razer Sensa HD haptics (which can even automatically convert audio to haptics).

The secret killer feature of the Razer Kishi V3 Pro and its siblings, though, has nothing to do with hardware. Yeah, the Razer Nexus app has really come a long way.

Razer Nexus is a free iOS/iPadOS and Android app that anyone can install to streamline their mobile gaming experience, and that ostensibly plays nice with any mobile controller, but unsurprisingly only reaches its full potential when paired with a Razer Kishi.

In some ways, Razer Nexus is still a basic app, but it's filled with features that make mobile controllers like the Kishi V3 Pro even better. It's a launcher to quickly access all your favorite games and services, sure, but it also lets you enable the audio-to-haptics feature for everything you want to play, remap your controls, and more.

More includes features like the Virtual Controller Mode and PC Remote Play. The former lets you map any physical Kishi control to the touch-only controls of any game — and it's by far the best implementation I've seen of such a feature, making games that don't normally play nice with mobile controllers (like Call of Duty Mobile and Pokémon Unite) feel completely natural with the Kishi V3 Pro.

The latter is a more recent addition, and lets you use the power of your gaming PC to stream any game to your mobile device. Razer's version of this feature can optimize your PC games for your device's screen, though, and it's shockingly good with the Kishi controllers.

The Razer Kishi V3 Pro is excellent, and the (completely free, subscription-less) Nexus app makes it even better.

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Kishi V3 Pro review: What I don't like

I'll avoid any misunderstandings and state first and foremost: I firmly believe the Razer Kishi V3 Pro (and its siblings) is the best mobile gaming controller you can buy right now. Of course... that doesn't mean it's perfect.

Most obviously, the Kishi V3 Pro's greatest strength is also a compromise. All the ergonomics and features of a full-sized controller also makes the Kishi V3 Pro undeniably large — and that makes it a poor choice for those who want a mobile controller they can truly carry with them everywhere.

The Kishi V3 Pro also isn't a complete upgrade over the Kishi Ultra; for some reason, Razer removed the RGB lighting strips. Most people won't care, but I can't review this controller without mentioning that.

If you want an actual criticism, the Kishi V3 Pro is prone to the same issue as the Kishi Ultra, in that it occasionally doesn't want to reconnect after an extended standby time. It's a minor complaint reserved for users like myself, who has a dedicated device just for mobile gaming, but it's worth mentioning.

Finally, and specific to the Kishi V3 Pro... most people don't need the two additional buttons and dedicated haptics that separate the Kishi V3 Pro from the more affordable Kishi V3.

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Kishi V3 Pro review: Also consider

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Kishi V3 Pro review: My final thoughts

✅You should buy this if ...

• You want a true console-like controller experience on mobile.
• You want a reliable controller that'll survive years of gaming.
• You find value in the Razer Nexus app and its added features.

❌You should not buy this if ...

• You want something as compact as possible for travel.
• You definitely don't want to spend $100+ on a mobile controller.

I've been using the Razer Kishi V3 Pro with the Lenovo Legion Tab (Gen 3), an 8.8-inch Android tablet designed with gaming in mind. The experience has been phenomenal, and I've found myself picking up this combination more often than even my ASUS ROG Ally X.

The simple fact is that mobile gaming does offer some distinct advantages in versatility and efficiency, and the Kishi V3 Pro absolves many of the compromises in ergonomics and controller performance.

To summarize in a different fashion, the Kishi V3 line of mobile controllers brings out the very best of gaming from your phone or tablet, whether you're playing a native title, streaming from the cloud or your PC, or emulating classic consoles.

The Razer Kishi V3 Pro is available now for $149.99 at Razer, and it's clearly the monarch of the family — while I haven't personally used it, though, the Kishi V3 (at $99.99 at Razer) does seem like the obvious choice for many people, given its tasteful compromises.

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Whenever I travel somewhere, I always take my ROG Ally X gaming handheld with me. Since it is such an expensive device, I only transport it in a protective case.

I've tried several different carrying cases and shells through the years, so I was curious when I saw the Waterfield ROG Ally Magnetic Case, which is zipperless.

I entrusted the Waterfield ROG Ally Magnetic Case to keep my gaming handheld safe on a recent work trip from the USA to Taiwan. I was a little nervous since it isn't a hardshell case. Here's how that went.

Waterfield ROG Ally X Magnetic Case: Price and availability

Waterfield Designs is a renowned San Francisco company that produces premium tech bags and cases. I've owned several different Waterfield bags through the years and can attest that this company's focus on quality, convenient storage pockets, and elegant design makes it stand out from the crowd.

But as with most premium bags, this carrying case doesn't come cheap.

The Waterfield ROG Ally Magnetic Case has a starting price of $84 for the ballistic nylon or waxed canvas options, but costs $89 if you go with one of the leather designs (like the blue one I reviewed). The leather options are available in black, blue, chocolate, white, or waxed canvas + chocolate, so you can pick the look you like best.

You can get this magnetic case in two different sizes to fit either the white ROG Ally or the slightly larger ROG Ally X. It's only purchasable through the Waterfield website.

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Waterfield ROG Ally X Magnetic Case: The good

As familiar as I am with Waterfield, I was completely unsurprised to find that the ROG Ally Magnetic Case is well made using high-quality materials. It looks and feels absolutely elegant.

I've had a protective dBrand Killswitch grip case installed on my ROG Ally X for several months, so I was curious to see if my handheld would fit in the Waterfield bag while this dBrand case was installed. I'm happy to say that it does, but just barely.

As such, you might be able to use this carrying case with any form-fitting casing you already have installed on your Ally.

Over the years, I've owned several gaming handheld carrying cases, but they've always had a zipper, so it felt a little strange not seeing one on this bag. Not having a zipper definitely gives the case a more refined air.

I also love that I don't make zipper noises in quiet areas (like on a plane) when I go to access my handheld. So, how well did the magnetic opening work?

My ROG Ally X was never in danger of falling out while using this case. The magnets snap shut when I press the two sides of the case together, and only ever open when I specifically use my fingers to pry the two sides apart.

I typically prefer to have a hard shell carrying case when traveling long distances, especially by plane. But, even though this carrying case doesn't have a hard shell, it did protect my handheld very well on my 13,000-mile trip.

That's because the interior of the ROG Ally Magnetic Case is lined with a super-soft material that keeps my handheld padded in transit. So there is no danger of scratching the screen.

Still, if you anticipate that your handheld will need tougher protection, then you might be better suited with a hard shell case.

The two inner pockets are relatively small, but large enough to fit accessories like earbuds or a microfibre towel. It would be nice if there were more storage, but then this case wouldn't be as sleek as it is.

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Waterfield ROG Ally X Magnetic Case: The bad

My biggest complaint with this carrying case is one that's common for Waterfield bags — it doesn't come with a wrist strap or handle.

There are two small loops on either side of the carrying case, and I could pay for a $3 carabiner or a shoulder strap for $25 at Waterfield's website, but it would be nicer if I didn't have to pay extra for a handle of some sort.

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Waterfield ROG Ally X Magnetic Case: Should you buy it?

✅You should buy this if ...

• You want a premium handheld carrying case that's made of quality materials.
• You like the idea of having a zipperless case that stays shut unless you specifically try to open it.

❌You should not buy this if ...

• You specifically want a hard shell carrying case to better protect your handheld.
• You're looking for a more budget-friendly carrying case.

I absolutely love the look of the Waterfield ROG Ally Magnetic Case. It's sleek, provides me with plenty of color options, and is rather protective for not having a hard shell case.

The soft inner pockets do a great job of preventing my screen from getting scratched while I'm traveling, and the tough leather protects my handheld casing against the normal jostlings and bumps of transit.

If you're interested in some of the best ASUS ROG Ally and Ally X accessories, and don't need a ton of storage space, then this is definitely one to consider.

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As a reviewer with a meticulous testing process, the products I recommend are usually the products I like — but that isn't always the case.

I do not enjoy using the ASUS ROG Spatha X wireless gaming mouse, but it still earns a recommendation from me (with some caveats). It's an unsightly mass of plastic and metal pulled straight from a teenage gamer's fever dream, but the Spatha X still has a lot going for it.

Unlike most gaming mice, the Spatha X doesn't care about being lithe and agile. Instead, it squeezes in as many buttons as possible, alongside some unique features like replaceable mouse switches, a wireless charging dock, and a rather large pile of included accessories in the box.

It won't be everyone's cup of tea, but there are plenty who can and will love the ROG Spatha X. Even looking past my biases, though, there are some weaknesses to discuss.

This review was made possible thanks to a review sample provided by ASUS. ASUS had no input nor saw the contents of this review prior to publication.

ROG Spatha X review: Cheat sheet

• What is it? A right-handed, MMO-focused wireless gaming mouse with a wireless charging dock.
• Who is it for? Those who want a larger, heavier mouse with extra buttons, and value extra features like wireless charging.
• How much does it cost? The ASUS ROG Spatha X retails for $169.99 at ASUS. You can also buy it for $169.99 at Best Buy or $169.99 at Amazon.
• What did I like? The plethora of accessories in the box, the unique features like wireless charging and replaceable switches, the solid build quality.
• What did I not like? The unwieldy, awkward design, the inconsistent performance.

ROG Spatha X review: Pricing and specifications

The ASUS ROG Spatha X is a premium wireless gaming mouse, but it actually feels well-priced considering how much is packed into its gargantuan box.

You can pick up the ASUS ROG Spatha X for $169.99 at ASUS, which is a $20 increase over its original retail price.

It's also available from more popular retailers, so you can buy it for $169.99 at Best Buy or $169.99 at Amazon, where it's more likely to go on sale.

No matter where you buy the ROG Spatha X, the wireless charging dock and receiver, the replacement mouse switches, the travel case, and the extra cable are all included.

In the box, you'll find the ASUS ROG Spatha X wireless gaming mouse, the two-piece wireless charging dock (which doubles as the wireless 2.4GHz receiver), two 2-meter braided USB Type-C to USB Type-A cables, two replacement ASUS ROG Micro Switches, a screwdriver, and a soft travel pouch.

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ROG Spatha X review: What I like

While I personally do not appreciate this design, the ASUS ROG Spatha X is intended to be larger and heavier than the lightweight, high-performance mice favored by many gamers.

Aesthetics aside, this mouse is built very well, with a sturdy plastic frame reinforced by the shaped metal plate at its base. You'll find ergonomic alcoves for your thumb and ring finger, and a wide assortment of buttons and controls that you can customize to your heart's content.

There's also RGB lighting, of course, present in the logo, scroll wheel, and side buttons. The lighting looks good, and ASUS makes it easy to customize (or sync with your other ASUS products).

For such a hefty mouse, the Spatha X does still glide relatively frictionlessly, and that chunkier frame does allow for some truly unique features, such as push-fit switch sockets that allow you to swap out the mouse switches in minutes.

ASUS even includes two replacement switches in the box, in case you do manage to wear out the originals and their 70-million click lifetime rating, as well as a screwdriver to open the mouse up.

You'll also find two contact pins on the bottom of the Spatha X, which enable wireless charging through the included two-piece dock — which also doubles as your 2.4GHz wireless receiver.

Whether you plug the Spatha X in or connect to its wireless dock, performance is identical. Up to a 1,000Hz polling rate and 19,000 dots-per-inch (DPI) gives the Spatha X the raw numbers it needs to stay competitive in all the most popular PC games, although its size inevitably slows you down.

The wireless connectivity has been flawless for me, and the dock obviously makes it a breeze to keep this mouse charged. That's good, because the Spatha X's battery life is... Fine.

Even with every slider turned to the max, the ROG Spatha X boasts more than enough endurance to survive the most arduous all-day gaming sessions, and being able to effortlessly charge it simply by docking it makes up for the lessened longevity versus some of the best competing mice.

A lot of the ROG Spatha X's value comes from its plethora of buttons. The traditional two side-mounted buttons you'll find on most mice have been relocated next to the left-click mouse button, and in their place, you'll find six uniquely shaped buttons.

Include the scroll wheel and DPI profile switch, and that's a total of 12 remappable buttons. Armoury Crate gives you a handful of other customization options, too, making it easy to configure the Spatha X to your needs.

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ROG Spatha X review: What I don't like

I could wax long about how much I detest this design, but I'll keep it brief. The ROG Spatha X is edgy and garish in a 2005 kind of way, and its large frame unfortunately does not translate to superior ergonomics (despite the presence of two finger rests).

Atrocious aesthetics aside, the ROG Spatha X makes more precise movements difficult to consistently pull off, a design trade-off that's exacerbated by slightly unreliable sensor performance. It only happened once in a while, but the Spatha X would sometimes skip or move in an unpredictable way, which could make or break a competitive game.

I can also lament the lack of some features in this premium mouse, such as Bluetooth connectivity, a proper tilt scroll wheel, and per-app profiles for shortcuts and other software customizations.

It also bears mentioning that the ROG Spatha X is designed for those who need lots of buttons, such as for MMO games, but there are plenty of mice that provide even more buttons.

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ROG Spatha X review: Also consider

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ROG Spatha X review: My final thoughts

✅You should buy this if ...

• You want a larger and heavier mouse.
• You value extra features like wireless charging and replaceable switches.
• You want lots of programmable buttons for gaming and work.

❌You should not buy this if ...

• You need the absolute best performance.
• You dislike this design as much as I do.

Most gamers will likely gravitate toward more nimble mice that can keep up with the most extreme movements, but there are plenty that prefer larger, heavier peripherals that require more deliberation to move around.

The ASUS ROG Spatha X is a mouse for those people, and it uses its size to give you more buttons and more features than the average gaming mouse. There's also a surprising number of goodies included in the box, so you really feel like you're getting a lot of mouse for your money.

I won't even try to convince you that I'm reluctant to let this mouse go. I'm immediately moving on to the next product, and I won't be looking back. My personal preferences don't make this a bad product, though.

This is a really good mouse with some prominent — but acceptable — weaknesses, and those who know what they want will likely be pretty happy with it. If you count yourself in that group, you can buy the ASUS ROG Spatha X for $169.99 at Best Buy or $169.99 at Amazon.

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I've reviewed dozens of office chairs and gaming chairs, but my absolute favorite is the AndaSeat Kaiser 3, which is on sale thanks to an April Sale event at AndaSeat that runs now until April 15.

When you also use a special Bestaprsalek330 coupon code, the price of the AndaSeat Kaiser 3 goes down from $499.00 to $399.00 at AndaSeat, while the deal lasts.

This gaming and computer chair has built-in lumbar support that you can adjust to fit your body type. Plus, you can get it wrapped in soft fabric or faux leather, with several colors to choose from.

The newer Kaiser 4 is also on sale and offers a unique lumbar feature, if you're interested.

What makes AndaSeat chairs so good?

I've reviewed dozens of office chairs and gaming chairs, including the Kaiser 3 (at our sister site iMore.com) and the Kaiser 4.

One of the biggest things I've learned over the years is that some gaming chairs and office chairs are really cheap and don't last long. That's not the case with AndaSeat chairs.

AndaSeat offers quality products that have served me and my loved ones well. That's why I recommend this company so often to all my friends and family.

When ordering your seat, you can get the company's chairs wrapped in either a soft linen fabric or a soft PVC leather.

I've used some cheaper chairs where the faux leather is just a thin layer on top of fabric, and it peels off within a few months of use, but that isn't the case at all with AndaSeat's higher-quality offerings.

I've been using some AndaSeat PVC leather chairs for years, and they still look brand new. Plus, they offer a level of comfort I don't always see in rival office chair companies.

When it comes to comfort and lumbar support, the AndaSeat Kaiser line of gaming chairs is a great choice to go with.

Adjustable built-in lumbar support provides comfort that better fits your body

Both the Kaiser 3 and the newer Kaiser 4 have built-in lumbar support, that can be adjusted using the side knobs.

This allows me to get the back support positioned exactly where my back needs it.

The biggest difference between the two chairs is that, unlike the Kaiser 3, the Kaiser 4's lumbar area can be popped forward to give even more custom support to your back shape.

These chairs come in either L or XL sizes, with the XL option capable of holding up to 396 pounds.

There are three colors available for the linen option and seven colors on offer for the faux leather one, so you can get the exact look you want.

Last week, I got my hands on the brand new Backbone One Xbox Edition mobile controller that just released, and I used it to play Xbox Game Pass titles on my phone all weekend.

It's a fantastic device that serves as a far more budget-friendly option to getting a full-blown PC gaming handheld. And, honestly, it's the perfect Game Pass companion.

As you'd expect, holding this gorgeous transparent controller in my hands immediately made me feel nostalgic for the early Xbox days, but it also made me reflect on how far portable gaming has come in the last 25 years.

I can do things on handhelds and mobile controllers today that I could only dream of in my childhood, and this device is the perfect reminder that we're still in the middle of that evolution.

This is seriously a fantastic mobile controller

From the minute I pulled the Backbone One Xbox Edition mobile controller out of the box, I was struck by its beautiful transparent casing that comes in a deep Halo green.

It reminds me of the Limited Edition Xbox Crystal Console from 2004.

Overall, this Xbox Edition controller has the same pros and cons pointed out in our original Backbone One review; build quality is excellent, there's no wobble, it's easy to use, and the controls are snappy and responsive.

There's even a handy Xbox button on the bottom left controller for easy menu navigation.

I was able to install my Pixel 8 phone with its case on without issue, which is something I've had problems with on past mobile controllers. However, that might be different on a case-by-case basis.

There weren't any troubleshooting issues either. I just had to plug my phone in, and the controller worked just as expected with compatible games that offer controller support.

All in all, I highly recommend this Xbox-branded mobile controller to anyone who is interested.

It's just as beautiful as it is useful.

A modern controller that pays homage to our handheld past while paving for the future

If you lived through the 90s and 2000s, then you know that colorful transparent devices were popular, encasing everything in tech from the small GameBoy Color to the large Apple iMac G3 in see-through glory.

As such, the green transparency of the Backbone One Xbox Edition easily evokes a sense of nostalgia for devices I used in my childhood, in addition to nostalgia for the early days of Halo and Xbox.

In fact, I kept getting flashbacks of using my GameBoy Color while playing on this Xbox Edition mobile controller.

The thing is, there was a distinct difference, back then, between what I'd expect with PC or console games versus the more limited (but still fun) experiences I'd expect with handheld games.

That's no longer the case.

The Backbone One and today's PC handhelds (Steam Deck, ROG Ally, Legion Go, etc) allow me to regularly dive into everything from short-yet-impactful indie titles like Night in the Woods to AAA games with intensive graphics like Assassin's Creed Shadows.

It's a freeing amount of access that I could only have hoped for as a kid.

We're not done with this evolution either.

I truly believe that portable gaming will be the main way to play games in the future.

Microsoft has even been pushing this idea to some extent, with its confusing "This is an Xbox" campaign and its xCloud service.

The upcoming next-gen Xbox handheld, with a targeted release of 2027, is yet another example of this shift. And I'm here for it.

I swore by the default Xbox Wireless Controller for many years thanks to its reliable wireless performance, ergonomic and attractive design, and accessible price tag. Well, I haven't touched any of my default controllers for months now.

That's because I've been using the Razer Wolverine V3 Pro I helped review, and it's the first true wireless Xbox controller from Razer designed around unlocking your best gaming performance.

It's packed with features and supposedly immune to stick drift (the dreaded death sentence for many a controller), and I've loved using it. The Razer Wolverine V3 Pro is one of the best Xbox controllers we've tested, and now it's available in a brand-new color.

Right, that's not too exciting on its own, but being able to see some real pictures (instead of idealized renders) and hear the thoughts of someone who has actually been using this controller may help you decide if it's the next peripheral for you.

First impressions of the Razer Wolverine V3 White Edition

The Razer Wolverine V3 Pro doesn't quite follow the iconic shape of the Xbox Wireless Controller, but still manages to be extremely comfortable and ergonomic on its own. Initial build quality also feels excellent, and the new White Edition possesses all the same qualities.

Unboxing the new Wolverine V3 Pro was a familiar experience. There's the premium, black travel case with dedicated slots for the two thumbstick replacements (still one of each type), the color-matched USB Type-A dongle for Razer HyperSpeed Wireless across Xbox and Windows PC, and the long 10ft, braided USB Type-C to USB Type-A cable (which is not color matched, sadly).

The controller itself feels the same in the hand, but it's now a two-tone design. The entire body and grips are dominated by white, as well as the Menu, View, Share, and Function buttons, but all other buttons, thumbsticks, and triggers are black.

It looks incredibly clean. It may just be because my PC setup (which has been almost entirely black for years) has started to shift to white in recent months, but I really like it.

How does it compare to the regular Wolverine V3 Pro?

I don't take full advantage of the Wolverine V3 Pro's many features, like using all six of the remappable buttons, but this is still my favorite and best performing game controller ever.

The new White Edition is everything I love about the one I've been using for months, but in a sweet new color. It's comfortable, it's responsive, and it's reliable. The White Edition also costs the same as the original, which isn't always a guarantee (especially not with Razer).

The Razer Wolverine V3 Tournament Edition I reviewed also got the white treatment, so it's up to you if you want to pay the big bucks for the more refined, wireless version or if you're okay relying on a wire for half the price.

Whichever way you go, you're getting the same quality — with one lingering concern from the original, and a new one for the White Edition.

How has the original Razer Wolverine V3 Pro held up over time?

When I contributed to Windows Central's Razer Wolverine V3 Pro review with my own findings, I countered my colleague Richard Devine's conclusion with some criticisms of my own.

To be clear, this is still my top Xbox controller and I happily use it every day despite a myriad of available alternatives, but not everything has been flawless considering the $200 price tag.

For one, one of the rear buttons became loose-feeling within a few weeks of use, and now exhibits a frustrating, always-noticeable "double click." A second rear button has begun to do the same to a lesser degree.

Despite the promise of zero stick drift, my right thumbstick has on a few occasions failed to fully reset to neutral when released, leading to drifting. The slightest touch has fixed it each time, but it's there.

The Wolverine V3 Pro still randomly disconnects while remaining on every now and then, requiring me to manually reset it. It usually fails to turn my Xbox Series X on. I've experienced intermittent connections mid-game before.

All of these problems either occur infrequently or are ultimately negligible, but it's worth mentioning because there's no guarantee the White Edition will fare any better.

And indeed, I've had the "Share" and "Xbox" buttons stop working when connected to a Windows PC multiple times, at least until I reset the controller.

Should I be concerned about the white color, especially the grips?

White products are definitely an aesthetic all on their own, but there's a reason black and grey colors are the default (beyond the popularity of darker tech), and that's longevity.

Whether it's the yellowing effects of the sun's rays, the inevitable wear and tear of the human touch, or even just the accumulation of dust and grime over time, white products seemed doomed to age faster.

Controllers are especially susceptible to this process, since they're constantly in your hands (and often for hours at a time). Simply making the grips black can dramatically improve a controller's resistance to staining, and I expected Razer to take the same approach with the Wolverine V3 Pro as it did with previous controllers.

Alas, Razer did not (likely because the way the Wolverine V3 Pro is constructed would make that difficult to accomplish).

I've already used the Wolverine V3 Pro White Edition for over a dozen hours and there hasn't been any sign of staining, but I'm also naturally very clean (I wash my hands many, many times a day) and tend to baby my tech. There's no guarantee it won't become an issue in the future.

Especially if you have children who use your controllers, I may think twice about committing to the White Edition if you're concerned about how it may age.

Still an amazing wireless controller, and it looks great in white

The Razer Wolverine V3 Pro is an awesome wireless Xbox and PC controller, and the White Edition is the same. My slight concerns regarding the Wolverine V3's quality control remain, and making the controller all-white (including the grips) doesn't help, but this an attractive, premium controller that looks extra fetching in white.

If you've been on the fence about which controller should be your next, I hope these images and impressions have helped. The Razer Wolverine V3 Pro still earns my wholehearted recommendation for those who want a premium, wireless Xbox controller without rolling the dice on the Xbox Elite Wireless Controller (Series 2), and the White Edition earns the same.

You can now buy the Razer Wolverine V3 Pro White Edition for $199.99 at Amazon. Those who'd rather save their cash and stay connected via a wire can get the Razer Wolverine V3 White Tournament Edition for $99.99 at Amazon.

The PowerA Fusion Pro 4 is a nice upgrade from the Fusion Pro 3 that also manages to be cheaper MSRP than its predecessor and introduces PowerA's proprietary 'Quick-Twist' technology to its range of budget-friendly pro-grade controllers.

Released alongside the premium and wireless Fusion Pro, this model comes in at half the price with many of the same pro gaming features like Hall Effect sensors and remappable controls.

The cushioned grips provide an exceptionally comfortable and ergonomic experience, possibly the most comfortable I own, and while the trigger stops could be more intense, they are an improvement over the more expensive model. Overall, the Fusion Pro 4 is a great controller. If using wired isn't a dealbreaker for you and you're craving that zero latency, it’s well-made and enjoyable to use.

This review was made possible with a review sample provided by PowerA. The company did not influence or preview the contents of this review.

PowerA Fusion Pro 4: Pricing and specifications

Pricing highlights

• The PowerA Fusion Pro Wireless retails for $69.99 at Amazon.
• The controller has many similar features to the Fusion Pro Wireless which retails for a much higher price of $149.99 but has wireless capabilities and LED lighting for the extra price.
• The controller comes with a 10ft braided USB cable.

The PowerA FUSION Pro 4 is a more budget-friendly offering in the 'pro-grade' controller space, priced at $69.99.

Unlike its wireless counterpart, the Fusion Pro 4 does not have RGB lighting or a built-in rechargeable battery, but it still packs many of the same practical features at half the cost.

The Fusion Pro 4 includes adjustable thumbsticks, Hall Effect sensors for precision, and mappable rear buttons, and it's another choice in the pool for gamers seeking pro-level customization at a more affordable price than the Razer Wolverine V3 Tournament Edition, for example.

The PowerA Fusion Pro 4 comes with a 10-foot braided USB cable included in the box and is backed by a 2-year limited warranty.

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PowerA Fusion Pro 4 review: The good

The pros highlights

• The PowerA Fusion Pro 4 is solidly constructed, durable, and offers impressive quality for its price point.
• The 'Quick Twist' technology on the thumbsticks is genuinely innovative and convenient for switching between games.
• The controller's grips are excellent, and the placement of the rear buttons makes them my favorite feature.

The PowerA Fusion Pro 4 stands out primarily for its price point, which, like most of PowerA's range, is more affordable than many competitors. At $69.99, this pro-grade controller offers impressive value, and it certainly feels worth the price. One of its standout positives is just how comfortable it is to use. The rubberized texture on the grips extends across the front, rear, triggers, and bumpers, making it feel great to use over long periods and, for want of a better word, giving it a pleasing 'squish.' While the shape and size are in line with most modern Xbox controllers, it wisely sticks to a proven design that works.

The controller is packed with features that let it sit in the 'pro' category, including dual rumble motors, impulse triggers, and Hall-effect sticks. It also includes a convenient headset dial for easy volume adjustments and muting when using a wired headset. I've broken many Xbox headset adapters in my time, having to plug into a controller on repeat, so I do appreciate whenever this is included, even if it is a little unsightly.

The rear buttons are another highlight; I personally prefer their flat design over the paddles found on the Xbox Elite Series 2. They’re perfectly positioned for my fingers, making actions like sliding in Call of Duty: Black Ops 6 as simple as squeezing the back of the controller. While some might prefer the more protruding rear controls of other brands, I find these flat buttons much more comfortable.

Since the controller is wired, there's zero latency to worry about—so when I lose a game, I have only my own terrible reaction times to blame. Despite being wired, the controller doesn’t feel overly light or cheap; it’s sturdy and well-made, giving it a premium feel.

A standout feature new to PowerA is the 'Quick-Twist' thumbsticks. Unlike other controllers that require you to swap sticks entirely, the Fusion Pro 4 lets you adjust the stick height with a simple twist, offering three levels to choose from. While it might sound like a gimmick, it’s surprisingly useful for FPS games, where customizing your setup to suit the mode can make a big difference.

Overall, this is a pretty decent controller for $79.99, and if you already use something like the KontrolFreek performance sticks and want a permanent solution, this controller is worth a look.

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PowerA Fusion Pro 4 review: The bad

The cons highlights

• The 3-way trigger stops aren't as effective as other controllers I've used with this feature, though they are an improvement over the more expensive Lumectra model.
• The previous Fusion models allowed you to swap the faceplate, and this does not.
• The price point is cheap, but GameSir has even cheaper options with similar features if you aren't sold on the twisting sticks.

The controller as a whole is impressive, but I was particularly curious about the trigger stops. On the PowerA Fusion Pro Wireless, they fell short of expectations, so I really wanted to see if the Fusion Pro 4 would perform better in this area.

I don’t typically play a lot of FPS games, but with Call of Duty: Black Ops 6 now available on Xbox Game Pass, I’ve found myself in the thick of some sweaty lobbies. Despite my embarrassingly low level of skill, I do appreciate the extra features on my controllers now more than ever—especially trigger stops. I’ve grown so reliant on them that playing without max settings feels really odd, and they massively compensate for my old lady reaction times.

Like the wireless Fusion Pro, this controller includes three levels of trigger-stop adjustment. While they’re an improvement over the wireless, they still don’t reduce trigger travel quite as much as I’d hoped. As shown in the photo below, even on the highest setting, the trigger still travels farther than ideal.

It’s also worth mentioning that, unlike previous Fusion Pro models, this version has dropped the swappable faceplates. If that was a feature you enjoyed, you might be disappointed. On the bright side, this change allows the controller to launch at $10 less than the Fusion Pro 3.

If you’re deciding between this and the Fusion Pro Wireless, this wired version offers far better value, especially if you can live without RGB lighting. However, if your primary focus is on Hall-effect sticks and rear buttons, you might want to consider GameSir’s range too, which offers similar features at an even lower price point (but without the luxury of those cushioned grips.)

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PowerA Fusion Pro Wireless: Final thoughts

You should buy this if ...

✅You want a wired controller for Xbox that's comfortable to use for long periods

If a wire isn't a deal breaker, and you want a really comfortable controller, this is a pretty good pick.

✅You want a controller Hall Effect tech and adjustable thumbsticks

If you play FPS games a lot, there's plenty of features to improve your game here without shelling out too much.

✅You use a wired headset

The included volume and mute control is handy for wired headsets.

You should not buy this if ...

❌You use trigger stops a lot for gaming

While the controller offers three levels of trigger stops, they don’t function as well as expected, with too much travel even at the highest setting.

❌You just want the Hall-Effect tech for no stick drift

You can get this at a cheaper price from GameSir.

When wrapping up a review, my ultimate test is whether the controller earns a spot in my regular rotation—and in this case, it absolutely does. The Fusion Pro 4 is incredibly comfortable, and the grips make a noticeable difference during games with repetitive movements. I look forward to trying it with Monster Hunter Wilds when that launches, as Monster Hunter always gives me hand cramps with its 40 minute hunts.

Actually, dealing with my Monster Hunter sessions will be the final test of whether this makes it to our best Xbox controllers list. I also appreciate PowerA's inclusion of the innovative Quick-Twist thumbsticks and look forward to experimenting with them further. Having tested both this and the wireless PowerA Fusion, I can confidently say this is the better value option by far.

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The PowerA Fusion Pro Wireless is a bold attempt by PowerA to enter the premium controller market. It is a gamble that doesn't quite pay off for me, but ultimately, I think, there is still a willing audience for a controller like this at a lower price point.

The PowerA Fusion Pro Wireless stands out as one of the few wireless third-party controllers for Xbox, joining a market filled with strong contenders like the Razer Wolverine V3 and the SCUF Instinct Pro. While I appreciate the increasing variety of options available this year, I was hoping PowerA could deliver a more budget-friendly alternative.

Visually, the Fusion Pro Wireless is a stunning controller, but its premium price point—likely influenced by the inclusion of customizable RGB lighting—pushes it into the "pro controller" category, where stronger competitors already dominate.

That said, it does have some unique features. The twisting sticks allow you to adjust height on the fly, and the rear button layout, along with the overall grip design, is exceptionally comfortable even in comparison to my myriad of other controllers. Unfortunately, the trigger stops fall short, even for casual FPS players like me, which diminishes its appeal for the "pro" audience it aims to attract.

Overall, the Fusion Pro Wireless isn't a bad controller—it’s well-made and enjoyable to use—but it struggles to stand out in a highly competitive field. If you’re interested, this is a controller best picked up during a sale.

This review was made possible with a review sample provided by PowerA. The company did not influence or preview the contents of this review.

PowerA Fusion Pro Wireless: Pricing and specifications

Pricing highlights

• The PowerA Fusion Pro Wireless retails for $149.99, though at the time of publishing it's on sale for $134.99 at Amazon.
• The controller has many similar features to the Fusion Pro 4 Wired which retails for a much cheaper $69, but forgoes the wireless capabilities and LED lighting.
• The controller comes with wireless USB dongle, 10ft USB wire, carrying case and a magnetic charging stand.

The PowerA Fusion Pro Wireless is a higher end offering compared to PowerA's previous line up, featuring wireless connectivity, a built-in rechargeable battery, and customizable RGB lighting. It retails for $149.99, making it a premium purchase compared to the more budget-friendly PowerA Fusion Pro 4, which is a wired controller priced at $69.99.

The Fusion Pro Wireless comes with a 2.4Ghz dongle that fits into its charging stand, seriously bright lighting effects and 'pro' features such as customizable rear buttons and adjustable thumbsticks. However, the Fusion Pro 4 shares many of these features at less than half the price, with the trade-off of requiring a wired connection and the fancy lighting.

Included in the box with the Fusion Pro Wireless is a hard shell carrying case, magnetic charging stand and a USB-C charging cable. PowerA's controllers are backed by PowerA’s 2-year limited warranty.

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PowerA Fusion Pro Wireless review: The good

The pros highlights

• The PowerA Fusion Pro Wireless looks like a perfectly normal Xbox controller until it's RGB lighting is activated, which is pretty neat.
• The 'Quick Twist' technology on the thumbsticks is actually really innovative and handy when switching between games.
• The grips on the controller feel comfortable, and the placement of the rear buttons is the best out of any I own.

Unboxing this controller felt like a special event. Nestled in its own hard case, it wasn't far off my experience first unboxing an Xbox Elite Controller. However, I do have one minor gripe in it's packaging: the magnetic stand doesn’t fit inside the case, which would’ve been more convenient for storage.

At first glance, the controller looks completely unassuming—no visible design or lighting cues to speak of. But in what feels like a nifty party trick, the ghost lighting sprang to life when I plugged it in. I can’t deny, this controller looks absolutely beautiful once lit up. It’s gorgeous, and I had too much fun experimenting with its different lighting modes for the purposes of photographing it for this review, thus the strange plant pot picture below...

The controller features four separate lighting zones that can be customized individually or in sync using a combination of the rear button, face buttons, and D-pad. Admittedly, it took me a while to get the hang of it—I spent a good few minutes squinting at the instructions—but once I got the rhythm, it became a fun way to match the controller’s colors to my games. I went with green for Diablo 4: Vessel of Hatred because Spiritborn, duh.

The charging stand itself is handy to have next to your PC or Xbox, and more elegant than simply plugging your controller in to charge via a USB-cable, like a peasant.

The controller boasts an impressive 30-hour battery life, though your mileage may vary depending on how much you use the RGB lighting. With the lights constantly on, you’ll likely get closer to 20 hours, but hitting the full 30 is achievable if you turn them off. Personally, I tend to disable the lighting during games like Call of Duty: Black Ops 6, where the extra glow feels more distracting than helpful.

Now, enough of the lighting, how does the controller feel? Honestly, it’s pretty fantastic. The grips on the outer edges have a slight cushioned texture that feels great in the hands, especially during long gaming sessions. As for the four rear remappable buttons, they’re some of the best I’ve ever used. Their placement is perfect for me, hitting my middle and ring fingers just right, without any need to stretch or fumble around the back. Of course, this may vary depending on your hand size, but I found them incredibly comfortable.

On the tech front, as expected from a pro-grade controller (looking at you, Xbox, for slacking in this department), it features Hall-Effect sticks and triggers. The sticks feel responsive and precise, though I do have some qualms with the triggers, which I’ll get to later. One standout feature is PowerA’s new 'Quick-Twist' thumbsticks. Unlike other controllers that require you to swap sticks entirely, the Fusion Pro Wireless allows you to twist and adjust the stick height, with three levels to choose from. It might sound gimmicky, but it’s surprisingly handy for FPS games, where tweaking your setup depending on the mode can make all the difference.

Overall, there's a lot to like about this controller's features, even if its initial appeal is its aesthetics. But where it falls short is most of those features I enjoyed are available on the Fusion Pro 4 which is half the price for the sacrifice of the lighting and wireless capabilities. I simply wish PowerA had pitched this a little cheaper.

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PowerA Fusion Pro Wireless review: The bad

The cons highlights

• The wireless delivery is by USB 2.4Ghz dongle and not native Xbox wireless, so if you also want to plug in your stand you are using 2 USB ports.
• The 3-way trigger stops just don't work very well and may as well be advertised as 1-way.
• The price point for this controller just isn't justified when compared to others at this level, or indeed PowerA's own range of better value controllers.

Where the controller is let down is really with its price point, which makes me stack it up unfavorably with better options from Razer, Scuf and Xbox themselves. Something I've come to use a lot recently is my trigger stops too, and I was really disappointed with their performance here.

I don’t usually play a lot of FPS games, but with Call of Duty: Black Ops 6 landing on Xbox Game Pass, I’ve jumped in with gusto alongside friends. It’s also made me appreciate the extra features on my controllers more than ever—particularly trigger stops. At this point, I simply can’t play without setting them to max; they’re a lifesaver for improving my dodgy reaction times.

Unfortunately, the trigger stops on this controller leave a lot to be desired. While it offers 3 levels of adjustment, they just don’t perform as well as they should. As you can see in the photo below, this is the trigger fully pressed down on level 1 (which confusingly is the highest setting, and 3 is the lowest) —and it’s clear there’s still too much travel. It’s a disappointing flaw in an otherwise well-designed controller.

While this controller is wireless, it connects via a dongle, which was initially a bit of a letdown—I was hoping for native Xbox wireless. That said, I can’t entirely blame PowerA, as Microsoft seems to keep that technology tightly locked down. Even brands like Turtle Beach, which previously utilized Xbox wireless, have started reverting to dongles.

It’s not a dealbreaker, but it does add some inconvenience. For instance, if you like to leave your dock plugged in, that’s two USB ports occupied on your Xbox. It would’ve been a nice touch if the dock itself could also act as the receiver, eliminating the need for the extra dongle. Still, this is a relatively minor gripe in the grand scheme of things.

Ultimately, my final score really came down to the price point. PowerA is a brand I typically turn to for value-oriented recommendations, but I don’t think this controller fully justifies its $150 price tag. When you strip away the lighting and wireless capabilities, it’s actually pretty similar to PowerA's Fusion Pro 4, which is half the price and much easier to recommend. Given the difference in cost, I expected a bit more for my money, and while the controller offers some great features, it doesn’t quite meet the high bar set by its price.

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PowerA Fusion Pro Wireless: Final thoughts

You should buy this if ...

✅You want a wireless controller for Xbox and enjoy RGB lighting effects

The customizable RGB lighting adds a fun, aesthetic element, with four separate lighting zones that can be adjusted individually or together. This controller definitely has the 'fun factor'.

✅You want a controller with an included charging stand

The charging stand is sleek, practical, and a more polished alternative to using a USB cable for charging.

✅You want a comfortable controller

The cushioned outer grips provide a comfortable feel, especially during long gaming sessions. The four remappable rear buttons are perfectly positioned for your middle and ring fingers, offering a more comfortable gaming experience without needing to stretch.

You should not buy this if ...

❌You play a lot of competitive FPS games

While the controller offers three levels of trigger stops, they don’t function as well as expected, with too much travel even at the highest setting.

❌You don't care about RGB lighting

Without the lighting capabilities, the controller doesn't offer a significant improvement over more affordable options in terms of overall functionality.

When finishing a review, my ultimate test is whether I continue to use the controller in my regular rotation, and sadly, I don’t think this one will make the cut for me or end up on our list of the best Xbox controllers. Instead, I see it as a great gift for a family member who doesn’t game as much as I do. In fact, I put it on my Gaming Gift List recommendations as it's so different from the norm. It’s a shame because PowerA really made a bold attempt to try something different with this controller, and I do think they’ve got the right idea. I just hope they keep pushing for innovation, but maybe with a more accessible price tag next time!

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The Razer Wolverine V3 Pro may have made a name for itself as one of the best Xbox controllers you can buy right now, but you don't have to spend $200 to get 95% of its features.

Razer also sells the Wolverine V3 Tournament Edition, a wired variant of the V3 Pro that also happens to cost half as much. The design is practically identical, and you're not missing out on any of the advanced controls. The biggest thing you're sacrificing is wireless connectivity, but when you're only paying $99.99 at Best Buy for the Wolverine V3 Tournament Edition that compromise feels very reasonable.

This is a great pro-grade wired controller for Xbox and PC gaming, but the Razer Wolverine V3 Tournament Edition doesn't surmount the weaknesses of its premium sibling and gains a few new quirks of its own. Despite being wired, you're not always guaranteed a reliable connection, the rumble motors feel rough, and I still have some concerns about the long-term durability of these controls.

This review was made possible thanks to a review sample provided by Razer. The company had no input nor saw the contents of this review prior to publication.

Wolverine V3 TE review: Pricing and specifications

Pricing highlights

• The Razer Wolverine V3 Tournament Edition retails for $99.99, or half the price of the Wolverine V3 Pro.
• The two controllers share many similarities, including an identical design and set of controls.
• The Wolverine V3 TE drops wireless connectivity, the Razer Chroma-lit logo, and the premium carrying case and cables to achieve its new price point.

The Razer Wolverine V3 Tournament Edition is the more affordable, wired version of the Wolverine V3 Pro, trading the internal battery and wireless connectivity for a 10ft cable. The Wolverine V3 TE retails for $99.99 at Best Buy, where the Wolverine V3 Pro retails for twice as much at $199.99 at Best Buy.

This makes the Wolverine V3 TE more expensive than many wired controllers, but makes up for it with its premium design and unique set of features and extra controls. It offers almost the exact same experience as the V3 Pro for half the price. In the box, you'll find the Razer Wolverine V3 Tournament Edition, a 10ft USB Type-C to USB Type-A non-braided cable, and a USB Type-A to USB Type-C adapter.

The Wolverine V3 TE does not include the hard carrying case or premium braided cables that the Wolverine V3 Pro does. Both controllers are covered by Razer's standard 12-month warranty, but you can double that period to 24-months and cover one accidental drop or spill for 36-months with Razer's optional RazerCare Elite plan.

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Wolverine V3 TE review: The good

The pros highlights

• All of the Razer Wolverine V3 Tournament Edition's positives are pulled straight from the Wolverine V3 Pro.
• It's the same comfortable, compact design with excellent build quality.
• You also get all the same controls, including the Mecha Tactile face buttons, mouse switch rear paddles, Hall Effect thumbsticks and triggers with mouse switch trigger stops, and two additional mouse switch bumpers.

Almost any positive I can bring to your attention regarding the Razer Wolverine V3 Tournament Edition is unchanged from the positives I and my colleague Richard Devine praised in our Razer Wolverine V3 Pro review. If you want a more in-depth look at this controller and what makes it special, you can find it there. I'll be keeping this short to avoid retreading the same paths.

The Wolverine V3 TE is practically indistinguishable from its more premium sibling. It's the same overall design and nearly identical dimensions, which means you're getting a compact controller that is very comfortable. The same caveats are here, too, like the too-large trigger housing that negatively impacts the ergonomics. Basically, the Wolverine V3 TE drops the internal battery (and some weight in the process), loses the RGB-lit Razer logo in place of a nondescript white LED dot, and adopts a matte finish on the face buttons versus the glossy of the V3 Pro... which I honestly prefer.

That means you're getting all of the same premium controller features. The face buttons use Razer's unique "Mecha Tactile" switches that combine clicky microswitches with comfy membrane switches, and they all feel great. The thumbsticks combat the dreaded stick drift with Hall Effect sensors, and the triggers use the same technology for smooth and consistent tracking. You still get six additional remappable buttons (four paddles and two bumpers) using Razer's iconic tactile mouse switches, and the triggers have built-in trigger stops using these same mouse switches.

This controller is packed with features, and many of them you just won't find anywhere else. It makes for an extremely versatile and customizable controller experience that lends itself very well to complex or competitive games. Razer calls the Wolverine V3 "the esports controller" for a reason. Just like the Wolverine V3 Pro, the Tournament Edition massively outperforms almost any other controller on the market because of its responsive, reliable, and precise controls. You can still take advantage of a 1,000Hz polling rate on PC for even better performance, too.

So many extra buttons mean it can take a while to configure the controller to your needs in every game, but the result is worth the effort. You can also use Razer Synapse on PC or the Razer Controller Setup app on Xbox for more customization and testing features, which is nice. Even if you elect not to use the supported software, there's a dedicated button on the Wolverine V3 TE to help you take advantage of its features just using the controller itself.

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Wolverine V3 TE review: The bad

The cons highlights

• Like the Wolverine V3 Pro, the compact shape and oversized trigger housing may make this controller less comfortable for some players.
• The rumble motors in the Wolverine V3 TE also feel significantly rougher than on the Wolverine V3 Pro.
• Finally, the included cable isn't very high quality and does introduce some connectivity issues at times.

I didn't love the Razer Wolverine V3 Pro as much as my co-reviewer, Richard Devine, and was ultimately more critical of the controller. With the Wolverine V3 Tournament Edition, I find myself in a familiar place.

I already mentioned my ergonomic complaints in the last section, but I also have mild concerns about the long-term durability of this controller. My Wolverine V3 Pro already has a loose rear paddle and some creaking in the chassis; that could just be my bad luck, but it's still worth mentioning.

However, the Wolverine V3 TE has two new issues of its own. For one, the rumble motors in this controller are rough. They rattle with a high-pitched whine and just don't feel good. It doesn't help that I had issues getting the Razer Controller Setup app to actually move beyond "0%" when connecting to this controller, preventing me from testing or adjusting the rumble intensity.

The one immutable advantage a wired controller should have is impeccable connectivity, too, but the Razer Wolverine V3 Tournament Edition doesn't quite achieve that. This cable isn't Razer's normal, high-quality braided affair, and feels cheap. Its connection is also loose, and on multiple occasions I experienced issues with the thumbstick inputs "freezing," in that my camera or movement would occasionally jerk in the last direction I inputted even after I had finished that input.

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Wolverine V3 TE review: Final thoughts

You should buy this if ...

✅You want a pro-grade controller without the pro-grade price

The Xbox Elite Wireless Controller Series 2, the Razer Wolverine V3 Pro, the Turtle Beach Stealth Ultra, all of these controllers boast wireless connectivity and a heap of extra features, but they all cost well over $100. The Wolverine V3 TE retains 95% of the premium capabilities of its more expensive sibling, but sits just under that $100 mark at half the price of the Wolverine V3 Pro.

✅You'd actually prefer to have a cable

A wired connection means not having to worry about interference or keeping your battery charged, but it also often means compromising on features or quality. The Wolverine V3 Tournament Edition asks you to make far fewer compromises, being nearly identical to the Wolverine V3 Pro apart from lacking wireless connectivity.

You should not buy this if ...

❌You won't use those extra buttons

If you're considering the Wolverine V3 Tournament Edition and don't believe you'll make full use of its six extra buttons or trigger stops, you can save a lot of cash with Xbox's official wireless controller or a wired alternative from a company like GameSir. This controller is priced well among its "esports" competitors, but it's still not a cheap controller.

With the conclusion of this review, I'll likely be returning to the Razer Wolverine V3 Pro, and I will hardly notice a difference. Well, actually, I'll have to worry about keeping it charged or waiting for it to finally connect to my Xbox Series X.

That's all more praise heaped on the Razer Wolverine V3 Tournament Edition. It costs half as much as the Wolverine V3 Pro with the same great core controller experience and additional buttons, and that cable means it connects instantly and stays connected. When the Razer Wolverine V3 Tournament Edition costs $99.99 at Best Buy versus the $200 of its big sibling, that's a very tempting proposition. As a complete package, this controller easily outperforms the de facto default Xbox Wireless Controller.

However, the Wolverine V3 TE retains the design weaknesses of the Wolverine V3 Pro, the rumble motors feel noticeably downgraded, and Razer's decision to use a cheaper-feeling cable means you still might encounter some occasional connectivity issues. If it weren't for that final point, I'd be more forgiving, but I've died a few times in Call of Duty: Black Ops 6 because brief lapses in connection disrupted my aim or movement, and that should never be the case with any controller aimed at competitive gamers.

Oh, did the designs of my Razer Wolverine V3 controllers catch your attention throughout this review? Razer was kind enough to send some of its exclusive skins to me to try out, and while they can be annoying to install due to how bafflingly thin they are, these are high-quality, attractive skins. If you're interested, you can get your own Razer Wolverine V3 Tournament Edition or V3 Pro skin from $9.99 at Razer.

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The nice thing about having a gaming handheld like Steam Deck, ROG Ally, and Legion Go is that they can work as a replacement for a more expensive gaming laptop.

However, doing any sort of screen capture isn't quite as convenient on these little devices. That's why AVerMedia released the X'TRA GO GC515 Charging Dock, an accessory that can capture handheld game footage on its own without needing to be connected to a computer.

I've spent the last couple of weeks using the AVerMedia X'TRA GO GC515 with my various gaming handhelds (ROG Ally, ROG Ally X, Legion Go, Steam Deck, and Nintendo Switch) to see how well it works. Here's what I've discovered.

AVerMedia X'TRA GO GC515W: Price and availability

As you likely already know, there are dozens and dozens of gaming handheld docks on the market today, whether you're looking for an accessory for Nintendo Switch, Steam Deck, ROG Ally, Legion Go, or one of the many other handhelds.

Many of these docks can be purchased for between $25 and $50, so the AVerMedia X'TRA GO's $199.99 MSRP will seem rather high at first. However, the reason for this higher pricing is that it is one of the only docks (if not the only dock) that can capture handheld game footage without needing to be connected to a computer.

Instead of simply being a pass-through dock, X'TRA GO features a capture card inside. If you insert a microSD card into it, the accessory can capture your game footage with just the press of a button while propping your handheld up.

If desired, you can also connect it to your laptop or desktop and then have better control over screen capture options using a program like OBS Studio. The X'TRA GO also comes in either black or white, which helps it match or stand apart from your gaming handheld of choice.

You can purchase the X'TRA GO at Amazon or the AVerMedia website. If you're lucky, you might be able to find it on sale during specific discount events throughout the year, such as Black Friday, Cyber Monday, or Prime Day. So far, the best sale I've seen has made the X'TRA GO dock drop down to $179.99 at Amazon. It's definitely pricier than many of the best external capture cards, but these other options don't display your handheld, and they often don't offer extra ports like the X'TRA GO does.

AVerMedia X'TRA GO GC515W — What's in the box?

The AVerMedia X'TRA GO GC515 docking station and recorder comes with an HDMI 2.0 cable, a USB-C to USB-C cable, a USB-C to USB-C PD cable, and a quick start guide.

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AVerMedia X'TRA GO GC515W: What I like

I experienced a bit of confusion when first setting up the AVerMedia X'TRA GO GC515, but after some troubleshooting, I was able to get it set up. Due to this, I've included setup instructions in the section after this to help you.

The AVerMedia X'TRA GO is a fantastic gaming handheld accessory that easily allows me to capture game footage without having to rely on a computer. The rubber stand area is large enough to fit my Steam Deck, Nintendo Switch OLED, ROG Ally, and Legion Go. Similarly, the included USB-C cable is long enough to plug into each of these devices, although I have found the Legion Go is easier to connect to if I plug the USB-C cable into the bottom port rather than the handheld's top port.

One of the things I love most about the X'TRA GO GC515 is how compact it is. External capture cards aren't that big, to begin with, but even encased in a plastic dock, this accessory still only takes up roughly 5.5 inches by 4 inches of space on my desk.

Plenty of charging ports, three monitors, and two host devices

The ports make it easy to connect the dock to my handheld, a couple of accessories, and, optionally, my computer. I took some time to tuck my cables carefully behind the accessory, and I got a relatively clean setup overall.

The ports are all clearly labeled, so it's easy to know where to plug things in. A handheld icon over one USB-C port lets me know I need to use this connection for my gaming handheld, while a separate USB-C port with a laptop icon above it makes it clear that this connection is optionally there for my PC. Meanwhile, the slider on the right switches the device between Capture Mode and Card Reader Mode.

The X'TRA GO does not come with a power cable/adapter, and it needs a 65W power flow to work properly. Because of this, I ended up using my ROG Ally charging brick, which supplies enough to charge up my ROG Ally or Legion Go, even when I'm playing at their max TDP.

Playing directly on my handhelds while in this dock felt a bit awkward, so I preferred to either use my favorite Xbox controller via Bluetooth or connect a mouse and keyboard USB-A dongle to the dock and control my games that way.

USER TIP: If you want to use the GC515 with a Nintendo Switch, make sure to use the Nintendo Switch's power brick and HDMI cable.

Easy capture and beautiful footage

It took me a bit of troubleshooting, but now that everything is set up, recording with the X'TRA GO is a breeze. To begin with, I plugged in all of the necessary cables (without connecting to a computer), and then I inserted a Samsung Evo Select 1TB microSD card into the dock. If you don't have a good memory card already, I suggest looking at our list of the best gaming handheld microSD cards.

From there, I was able to quickly capture footage simply by pressing the large AVerMedia button on the front of the accessory. An LED light indicator below this button flashes red, letting me know when a recording is in progress. It then turns blue if I end the recording by pressing the button again.

I did a few different recording sessions while connected to each of my handheld devices. This is how I discovered that the dock saves recordings as MP4 files and can record at either 120FPS at 1080p or up to 60FPS at 4K. When I checked these recordings, they were all clean, crisp, and had very smooth capture quality. The audio was also pretty good.

After this, I connected the docking station to my ROG NUC 970 mini gaming PC and downloaded AVerMedia Streaming Center from AVerMedia.com so I could fine-tune my GC515's settings. Once done, I used OBS Studio to gain more control over my recordings or streaming sessions while playing a few different games, including Dragon Age: The Veilguard, Cyberpunk 2077, and Baldur's Gate 3.

RELATED: Best settings for playing Dragon Age: The Veilguard on gaming handhelds.

There is a bit of a delay when displaying the image on your computer monitor, but that's pretty common. Pass-through resolution looks really nice since it supports up to 4K at 60Hz or 1080p at 120Hz as long as you have a compatible monitor.

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How to set up X'TRA GO GC515 with OBS for streaming

There are a number of different streaming apps out there, but our preferred is the free and open-source OBS Studio. Here is how to get the GC515 and your gaming handheld set up with this program.

1. Download the AVerMedia Streaming Center from AVerMedia.com and install it on your computer. If it doesn't detect the GC515, unplug and then replug the power cable to the dock and then press the Refresh button. You might also want to try restarting your computer.
2. Connect the X'TRA GO to your gaming handheld (and optionally your computer) as instructed in the Quick Start Guide.
3. Turn on your docked gaming handheld.
4. Adjust resolution and refresh rates on your handheld device (something that is possible with Windows handhelds but not Nintendo Switch).
5. Use the switch on the back to put the X'TRA GO in the correct mode. Left is Capture Mode, and the right is MicroSD Card Reader Mode.
6. Connect a keyboard and mouse or a controller to the gaming handheld either through the USB-A ports on the GC515 or via the handheld's Bluetooth.
7. Download OBS (if you don't already have it) and install it on your computer.
8. Open OBS on your computer. If this is your first time, you'll need to determine some settings. I selected:
   1. Usage Information: Optimize for streaming, recording secondary
   2. Video Settings: 1920x1080, Either 60 or 30, but prefer 60 when possible
   3. Stream Information: Twitch with a connected account.
9. In the Sources box near the bottom of the screen, click on the + button.
10. Select Video Capture Device. By default, it should have GC515 X'TRA GO selected.
11. Adjusted settings if desired or press OK to close the window.
12. If you're ready to stream or record, simply make sure the gaming handheld is on and running whatever game you want it to. Then click on Start Streaming or Start Recording in the Controls box (found in the bottom right corner of OBS).
13. When you're done, select Stop Streaming or Stop Recording.

USER TIP: You might need to adjust your handheld's display settings in order to display the signal properly on a connected PC/monitor.

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AVerMedia X'TRA GO GC515W: What I do not like

As I previously alluded to, the biggest problem with the X'TRA GO is that the stand area cannot be adjusted. Because of that, handhelds are held up at different angles depending on how thick the casing is.

Nintendo Switch has a lot of wiggle room and tends to tilt back, while Legion Go barely fits and thus sits straight up. However, the X'TRA GO is not wide enough to hold the thicker ROG Ally X in place. I was still able to use the GC515 to record or stream from this improved ASUS gaming device, but not with the Ally X installed on the stand.

While not absolutely necessary, I was also surprised to see that this charging dock doesn't have an RJ45 port. True, the focus is that you can use the accessory without having to connect to a computer, but Ethernet ports are very common with other docking stations on the market, and I would definitely prefer a faster-wired internet connection for my online games.

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AVerMedia X'TRA GO GC515W: Competition

There are a lot of options to choose from when looking for the best laptop docking stations or the best Thunderbolt 4 hubs, but each device offers different connection possibilities. As such, you'll want to consider what it is you specifically want from a docking station and then find one that matches your needs.

If you already have a handheld docking station as well as a computer and simply want a capture card, you might want to look at our Elgato HD60 X review. This device is easy to set up, has HDR processing abilities, and offers VRR passthrough. It has an MSRP of $179.99 but can be found selling for as low as $129.99 on Amazon during deal periods.

If you simply need a docking station and don't care about capturing footage, then I recommend going with a JSAUX accessory. You can look at my JSAUX 6-in-1 Multifunctional Docking Station review ($38.99 at Amazon), ideal for ROG Ally, ROG Ally X, and Legion Go, or my colleague's JSAUX Steam Deck dock review ($39.99 at Amazon) for two awesome suggestions.

Now, if you want more of an all-out hub to connect to your computer, I suggest looking at our CalDigit TS4 review. This dock has a healthy amount of ports in a compact casing. As part of its port selection, it has both an SD Card reader and a microSD card reader. The CalDigit TS4 has an MSRP of $449.95 but can often be found on sale at Amazon for $399.95.

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AVerMedia X'TRA GO GC515W: Should you buy it?

You should buy this if...

✅ You want a device that records gameplay: Not only is the X'TRA GO a docking station, it also doubles as a recording device. Because of this, you don't need to have a laptop or computer connected to your handheld in order to stream gameplay.

✅ You'd like a docking station that works with all current major gaming handhelds: The X'TRA GO is compatible with Nintendo Switch, Steam Deck, ROG Ally, Legion Go, MSI Claw, or other USB-C gaming device.

✅ You're looking for a device that is compact and looks nice: Despite offering a good range of ports and doubling as both a docking station and recording device, the X'TRA GO doesn't take up a lot of room. It also has a pleasant design that looks good in any gaming den, office, or living room.

You should not buy this if...

❌ You want a wired internet connection: Since the X'TRA GO GC515 doesn't have an Ethernet port, it cannot supply a stable wired connection to your gaming handhelds on its own.

❌ You don't need a docking station that records: If you don't think you'll want to record or stream your gaming sessions, then you'll be better served with a simpler gaming handheld docking station. They're a lot cheaper than this unique device too.

The AVerMedia X'TRA GO GC515 is the most convenient way to record or stream crisp game footage from a gaming handheld. You can easily use this device to capture footage without a computer and then upload your captures online or share them with friends as desired. If you want to have more control over your streaming, then I recommend setting it up with a PC and using OBS Studio.

While the port selection is healthy, it would have been better if the X'TRA GO had an RJ45 port to provide a wired internet connection for my online games. Additionally, having an adjustable stand area would make it so different gaming devices could be held up at better viewing angles and might even make it so that the ROG Ally X could fit. These problems are very minor, though, so I definitely recommend the X'TRA GO to gaming handheld owners who want to stream or record gameplay.

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What you need to know

• Razer is expanding its official "Hello Kitty" line of gaming accessories with a new headset, this time the wired Kraken Kitty V2.
• The adorable white-and-pink headset joins the Kraken Kitty V2 BT in the lineup, with the infamous Hello Kitty ears and pink bow.
• Priced at $110, there's only one place to get the new headset, and that's Target.
• Razer sent me an early sample to check out, and it's exactly what I expected: a decent gaming headset that's cute and fun.

There's no shortage of official (and horridly unofficial) Hello Kitty merchandise, but one of the only places to deck out your PC gaming setup in white-and-pink gear is Razer. The legendary gaming company has an entire lineup of official "Hello Kitty and Friends" accessories and peripherals, and the family just got one product larger today.

Joining the existing wireless version, the Razer Kraken Kitty V2 "Hello Kitty and Friends" Edition is now available for $109.99 at Target as a retailer exclusive release.

Whatever expectations you may have for a Hello Kitty variant of Razer's cutest gaming headset is probably entirely accurate, but Razer did send me a pre-release sample to check out for myself. While I won't be doing a full review of this particular headset for Windows Central (I'm devoting my energies toward the Razer Kraken V4 Pro on my desk right now), you can keep reading for my initial impressions. I also reviewed the Razer Kraken Kitty V2 Pro in the past, if you want my thoughts on the flagship in this lineup.

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