Review

At long last, LEGO Star Wars: The Skywalker Saga has been released. After spending years in development and following several delays over the years, the highly-anticipated title has arrived. But is all of the visual brick-built action worth the cash? We’re diving into what the most compressive and gorgeous-looking LEGO Star Wars game has to offer.

Dual monitor setups are getting more common, but one way to get the same screen real estate without two separate displays is by going with a DQHD screen like the Monoprice Dark Matter 49-inch monitor. Falling under the Dark Matter gaming brand, the new 49-inch monitor boasts a 32:9 aspect ratio 5120×1440 resolution with a 120Hz refresh rate. That also translates well into a screen that makes productivity even easier. Be sure to hit the video below to check out all of the details of this screen that blends work and play into a single super-ultra-wide monitor. 

Today, Novation is unveiling its brand-new FL Studio keyboard controller. The new FLkey MIDI keyboards now join the rest of Novation’s controllers for music creators and beat makers with a series of dedicated features for Imagine Line’s popular FL Studio DAW. While specifically tailored for FL Studio hip-hip and EDM producers, it essentially allows anyone to get hands-on with their beats and sounds without having to rely on a mouse, much like its Launchpad grid controllers we explored after full Logic Pro support was rolled out. Designed to put FL Studio’s wonderful sequencer-based music creation ecosystem directly beneath your fingertips and to deliver an all-round MIDI keyboard experience for just about any DAW, we had a chance to go hands-on with the new FLkey ahead of release today to see what it was capable of. Head below for a closer look at our impressions of the new FL Studio keyboard controller in the latest Tested with gadgetnewsonline. 

Update: SANDMARC is now offering gadgetnewsonline readers an exclusive $5 off the Pro Leather cases on review down below using code gadgetnewsonline at checkout. 

Today we are taking a hands-on look at the new SANDMARC MagSafe-ready leather and metal iPhone 13 case. Designed to work alongside the brand’s range of iPhone lens attachments, the Pro leather case is also an eye-catching option on its own if you ask me. Wrapped in “top-grain leather” with a MagSafe-compatible design and a gunmetal aluminum machined camera protection rig, it delivers what could only be described as a more premium solution without getting up into the $50+ price range. We got a chance to go hands-on with the recent release and now it is time to weigh in with our SANDMARC leather and metal iPhone 13 case review as part of the Tested with gadgetnewsonline series. 

XGIMI is refining its projector line-up with a new upgraded version of its portable workhorse. The XGIMI Halo+ keeps a similar overall design and feature set as the older model we got to review last year, but now it’s brighter and has some more intelligent features that make it easier to use. Be sure to hit the video below and check out all of the details. 

Last month, Casely unveiled its new Power Pod – a MagSafe portable battery that snaps right onto the back of your iPhone 12 or 13. In usual Casely fashion, the magnetic portable battery pack is available in a number of wild colorways and patterns including everything from bright swirls and pastel matte finishes to one plastered in happy faces, the cow print you see on display here today, and several others. Along with the TikTok-worthy designs, it can also be used as a Qi charging pad of sorts for your other mobile kit including AirPods and other wireless earbud cases. Head below below for our hands-on review of the new Casely Power Pod MagSafe portable battery in the latest Tested with gadgetnewsonline. 

With a history of award-winning audio, V-Moda has recently been releasing limited-edition designs of some of their popular headphones. We got our hands on the brand new V-Moda Rolling Stones limited edition Crossfade 2 Wireless. Available in three different designs that channel the iconic rock group, do they stand up to the $280 price tag? Be sure to keep reading and hit the video below and find out. 

Marking for the latest additions to the Star Wars buildable helmet series, the LEGO Group dropped three new builds earlier in the month to recreate the likeness of iconic characters both new and old. Now after getting our hands on the sets and stacking up the nearly 2,000 combined bricks, we’re seeing which ones are worth your cash and which should just be passed over.

Today we are taking a closer look at PreSonus’ new affordable audio interface known as the AudioBox GO. After going hands-on with the brand’s new dynamic USB-C mic recently, we also had a chance to give the new AudioBox GO a run in the studio for a few weeks. Since it debuted last month as the recording brand’s entry-level recording I/O solution for your Mac, Windows and Chrome OS devices, as well as other Apple and Android gear (among other things), we thought it would be a good idea to give the inexpensive new audio interface a run for its money in the latest Tested with gadgetnewsonline entry. Head below for a closer look.

Today, Anycubic is revealing two new options into its arsenal of FDM 3D printers. Entering as an entirely new series of machines, the just-released Anycubic Kobra and Kobra Max arrive at two different price points with features to match. Now after going hands-on with them, we’re highlighting why inclusions like auto-leveling heated beds, touchscreen displays, and an integrated direct extruder make these some of the best options on the market.

Aftermarket Xbox controllers are a great way to augment your gaming experience. Last year we took a look at some of the best options out there for the new Series X and S, but now we have another addition to the line-up. The HexGaming Advance Controller starts with an authentic Xbox controller and then takes it to the next level with custom colors, back buttons, interchangeable thumbsticks, and custom trigger controls. Starting at $170, the Advance controller can be heavily customized into a one-of-a-kind device. Be sure to hit the video below to see all of the details.

Sony recently launched its new LinkBuds, a pair of unique true wireless earbuds that offer a more novel take on your everyday listening. Sporting figure eight designs, these buds have a distinctive ring-shaped driver that allows allows you to still hear ambient audio. Giving Apple’s best-in-class Transparency mode a run for its money, we go hands-on with Sony’s latest to see if they’re worth the $178 price tag.

Insta360 has been a huge name in the 360 and action camera market. Last year we went hands-on with the thumb-sized Go 2, which is one of the simplest action cameras I’ve ever used. Now, it’s out with the new Insta360 One RS – an evolution of their modular action camera. We got our hands on the twin edition, which includes a 4K Boost lens as well as a 5.7k 360-degree lens. Be sure to hit the video below and see this camera in action. 

PreSonus unleashed its new Revelator Dynamic USB mic last month just after its entry-level AudioBox Go interface was unveiled. Looking to provide users with a high-quality dynamic solution for broadcasting, streaming, and music recording in one, we have had a chance to go hands-on with its latest in the Revelator lineup to see what it was made of. So head below for a closer look at our Revelator Dynamic USB mic review in the latest entry to the Tested with gadgetnewsonline series. 

Bluetooth speakers are a great portable way to bring music to your adventures, outdoor get-togethers, or dance parties. Today we got our hands on the massive new Monster Blaster 3.0. Dubbed “A boombox for the next generation” by Monster, it looks formidable and packs 120W of power, but does the sound live up to the large design and the $350 price tag? Be sure to hit the video below to see all of the details. 

Expanding from PC hardware and services, today NZXT is announcing a whole line-up of peripherals. From the Function mechanical keyboard to the lightweight Lift wired mouse, NZXT is offering plenty of customization along the way. We got our hands on a MiniTKL Function keyboard along with the Lift mouse. Be sure to hit the video below to see all of the details. 

As we work our way through the new LEGO Star Wars sets for March, today we’re taking a hands-on look at the new Dark Trooper Attack set. Entering as the latest creations based around The Mandalorian, the new build stacks up to over 165 pieces and delivers one of the more unique builds as of late from a galaxy far, far away. But does that mean it’s worth the $30 price tag? Let’s check it out.

Following up a string of successful Kickstarter campaigns, we’ve got our hands on the DockCase M.2 SSD enclosure that packs some impressive performance and functionality. With support for USB 3.2 Gen 2 and hardware protection for power loss, it’s a high-performing enclosure with some safety features for crucial data. Be sure to hit the video below to see all of the details. 

Like many, my Destiny 2 enthusiasm has had ups and downs. I’ll usually hop in every other season or expansion and try it out for a bit before inevitably going back to spending my time in another game. I rarely even get close to max power. But with The Witch Queen, things might be different. Thanks to a refreshingly engaging campaign, a new weapon type, and new endgame content, Bungie has knocked it out of the park with its latest expansion. Be sure to hit the video below to see all of the details. 

Entering as the largest LEGO Star Wars set of 2022 so far, the Boba Fett’s Throne Room kit just hit store shelves at the beginning of the month. As one of the year’s more anticipated creations since first being rumored last year, we’re finally taking a hands-on look at the new over 700-piece creation to see how it stacks up.

Secretlab might be one of the most well-known names when it comes to the iconic high-backed style gaming chair. While I’ve tried some from Vertagear and AndaSeat in the past, the $549 Secretlab Titan Evo 2022 is the first time I’ve considered using a so-called “gaming chair” as my main seat for all-day work and play. Be sure to hit the video below to see all of the details. 

A bit late to the game, OtterBox just launched its first MagSafe-compatible Power Bank. Waiting for other manufactures to show their hands first, the new release arrives with a first of its kind feature set centered around its passthrough MagSafe charging. But was it worth the wait? Our latest Tested with gadgetnewsonline review explores what to expect.

UST or ultra-short throw projectors offer an interesting take as an alternative to large traditional TVs. While I’ve tried a few, the AWOL LTV-3500 is the first time I’ve actually thought this could replace a TV. That probably is mostly to do with the 3500 peak lumens that this UST projector can put out combined with an ALR screen, but the colors are also almost startlingly vivid for a projector. The Indiegogo campaign is in full swing and offers some deep discounts off of the MSRP. Be sure to hit the video below and see all of the details. 

Today we are taking a hands-on look at the Peak Design canvas iPhone 13 case and the brand’s collection of accessories for it. After reviewing its latest travel gear recently, we thought it would be a good idea to see what it’s lineup of mobile accoutrements and Everyday canvas iPhone 13 cases had in store. The MagSafe-ready cover works alongside a series of additional add-ons and you’ll find all of the details you need in the latest Tested with gadgetnewsonline down below. 

Earlier this year, the new Arc Pulse case launched to give iPhone 13 owners a sleek alternative to not rocking a cover at all. Wrapping your handset in an ultra-minimal form-factor, its high-end titanium build offers added protection without all of the usual bulk. But is the premium build worth a fittingly steep price tag? Our latest Tested with gadgetnewsonline review is on the case.

After taking a one-year hiatus, the popular LEGO Architecture Skyline collection is finally receiving a new creation. Launched at the beginning of the year, the brick-built recreation of Singapore marks the first build of its kind in almost two years. But just what does the LEGO Group have in store for the return of the fan-favorite theme? Hit the jump for all of the details.

If the top-tier G915 from Logitech is outside of your budget, one of its latest keyboard offerings might be a better choice. Logitech’s new G413 SE comes in at $80 for the full-size layout and $70 for the TKL flavor but still packs the pedigree of one of the most well-known gaming brands. Be sure to hit the video below to see all of the details. 

Earlier this month, CORSAIR launched its latest internal SSD which took aim at PS5 users looking to supplement the console’s storage. Now that Horizon Forbidden West launched this past weekend with nearly 90GB of required space to enjoy the highly-anticipated sequel, I put CORSAIR’s new MP600 PRO LPX SSD to the test for solving storage woes. Head below for the full scoop on what to expect from the process.

We’ve seen plenty of companies expanding into the podcasting and streaming audio space like NZXT, but today we’re taking a look at another player. The new Deity VO-7U is a dynamic broadcast microphone aimed directly at streamers and podcasters with RGB lighting built-in and some other handy features up its sleeve. Be sure to hit the video below to see and hear all of the details. 

Finally launching back at the beginning of the month after being announced nearly two years ago, I’ve gotten my hands on the all-new LEGO Ideas Globe. But after such a long wait, does the last fan-inspired creation actually deliver a worthwhile build? Spoiler, it absolutely does! But you’ll want to head below for all of the details on the new set anyway.

One of my first dedicated PC “headsets” was a pair of Audio-Technica ATH-M50x’s that I used for editing with a mod mic attached to the side when gaming. Since then, Audio-Technica has come out with some dedicated gaming headset offerings like the wireless ATH-G1WL we reviewed. Today we’re taking a look at the latest headsets from Audio-Technica – the ATH-GL3 closed-back headset and its open-back variant the ATH–GDL3. Coming in at a much more affordable price point than gaming headsets of the past, how do they stack up? From my experience, it’s a mixed bag. Be sure to hit the video below to see all of the details.

Earlier this month Peak Design unveiled the latest additions to its travel lineup with the new 65L Travel Duffle, Wash Pouch, a 30L Travel Backpack, and packing cubes to go with them. The latest entries to the line expand the existing family of travel companions with organization options, larger sizes, and an enhanced feature set overall. After having a chance to go hands-on with the 65L Travel Duffle and some of the packing cubes, it’s time to weigh in as part of our Tested with gadgetnewsonline series. Head below for a closer look. 

Breaking into the scene of recycled iPhone 13 cases, OtterBox just launched its new Core cover lineup to start the year. Comprised of 50% renewed materials, the regrind build delivers a slim, yet grippy design. Though whether the environmentally-friendly focus is worth its $60 price tag is what we’re investigating in our latest Tested with gadgetnewsonline review.

While phones are getting better at stabilizing video by themselves, adding a gimbal can almost always make a vast improvement for smooth camera movements. We’ve tried out some of its smaller entry-level phone gimbals in the past, but today we’re checking out the Zhiyun Smooth 5. Starting at $170, it’s considerably more expensive than the Smooth Q3 that we reviewed last year but packs some more features that take this mobile gimbal to the next level. Be sure to hit the video below to see all of the details. 

While Joby might be most well known for the Gorillapod made popular by boosted board vloggers like Casey Neistat, recently it has been expanding its lineup of offerings for content creators. We went hands on with the mobile vlogging kit that included a light and a microphone, but now Joby is out with a huge line of audio gear for almost any creator. Be sure to hit the video below to hear how these new Joby Wavo mics sound in action.

Update: The new Positive Grid Spark mini Bluetooth speaker and guitar amp is now up for pre-order with a notable launch discount at $185. Regularly $229, Positive Grid says the discounts will be changing throughout the day, but it might not get any better than this. 

Today we are diving into our review of the Positive Grid RIFF guitar audio interface. Positive Grid is best known for its intelligent smart guitar amp products that offer instrumentalists a wonderful practice and recording setup tightly integrated with the brand’s wealth of high-tech jam-along and tone emulation software. The new RIFF interface packs much of this integration into a small audio interface for Mac, Windows, and iOS musicians at an even more affordable price tag. We featured the newly unveiled guitar USB interface at launch alongside a nice introductory price drop offer, but now it’s time to take a closer hands-on look in our Positive Grid RIFF review as part of the latest entry in the Tested with gadgetnewsonline series. 

CASETiFY is one of our favorite iPhone accessories makers here at 9to5, and its latest releases are putting that to the test. Debuting with quite the premium price tags, its new recycled iPhone 13 MagSafe cases are comprised of 65% renewed materials. But is that environmental-consciousness worth the cash? Our latest Tested with gadgetnewsonline review is on the case.

Samsung refreshed its lineup of memory cards in the latter portion of last year with its new PRO Plus and EVO Plus microSD solutions alongside some full-size SD cards. Designed for content creators and getting extra storage in that Android handset, they’ll even help store some console games on-the-go within the usual thumbnail-sized form factor. While not the fastest options on the market, they can be affordable on a per-GB basis with respectful transfer speeds, a solid 10-year warranty, and Samsung’s 6-proof protection ratings. Head below for a closer look at the new PRO Plus and EVO Plus microSD solutions in the latest Tested with gadgetnewsonline review. 

Portable projectors are a great way to add some functionality to your entertainment setup. They work great at home plugged in for movie night, but the uses go much further than that. Taking a camping trip and want to watch a movie under the stars? Want to have your friends over for a movie but don’t want to be indoors? With built-in batteries, portable projectors open up a new world of possibilities. We’ve taken a look at our fair share of portable projectors on gadgetnewsonline, and the AAXA M7 projector offers an impressive feature list for the price. Be sure to hit the video below to see all the details.

This past week, the latest and arguably most defining chapter of the Pokémon franchise was released with Legends: Arceus. Taking a bold new direction for the series, the latest installment arrives with an open-world focus, loads of unique mechanics, and an entire new region to explore. If you’re still deciding whether Pokémon Legends: Arceus is worth adding to your collection, check out our insights from a weekend spent exploring the world of Hisui.

New Wave Toys’ latest miniature retro arcade cabinet is the 1943 X RepliCade overhaul edition. Officially licensed by Capcam, this $170 1/6th scale cabinet features the same impeccable attention to detail that New Wave Toys has put into all of its cabinets in the past. We took a look at the 1942 X RepliCade most recently, but be sure to check out the video and see all of the attention to detail New Wave Toys has put on the 1943 X RepiCade cabinet. 

The latest model SanDisk Professional 2TB G-DRIVE ArmorATD protective hard drive is in the spotlight today. Solid-state portable solutions have become far more affordable than year’s past, but they still, for the most part, can’t quite compete with the per TB pricing on traditional hard drives. The G-DRIVE ArmorATD lineup offers up a rugged solution for content creators and more at a relatively affordable cost of entry, but are the far slower transfers speeds compared to that of its SSD brethren worth the savings? Are hard drives even still a worth while investment? Let’s see if the ArmorATD brings enough to the table in other aspects for it to be worth your time. Head below for our hands-on review of the latest-generation SanDisk Professional 2TB G-DRIVE ArmorATD protective hard drive

Beyerdynamic’s most recent additions to its gaming lineup are the entry-level MMX 100 and MMX 150 headsets. With a simple feature set and coming in at $100 and $150 respectively, they have plenty of similar features with a few key differences. With Beyerdynamic’s rich heritage of premium audio, how do they stack up in their price range? Be sure to hit the video below to see all of the details. 

Our Tested with gadgetnewsonline series has gone hands-on with other iPhoneography gear in the past, and JOBY’s new GripTight MagSafe Mounts are the latest to be thrown into the gauntlet. Centered around the headlining feature of MagSafe support for iPhone 13 handsets, we’re finding out if the new releases are worthy additions to your photography setup, or just the latest accessories to get in on the MagSafe fad.

Originally slated to launch at the start of 2022, the eagerly-awaited LEGO Clone Command Station pack is now available. But with so much fanfare and hype surrounding the first Star Wars accessory pack, is the $15 Clone Trooper Command Station actually worth adding to your collection in the first place, let alone buying multiple?

Wyze is quickly becoming a household name in affordable home surveillance, and last year the company updated one of its popular cameras with the Wyze Cam Pan v2. Much like the Wyze Cam v3 that we reviewed, the Cam Pan v2 takes a similar design from its earlier version and upgrades it with a new sensor that can nearly see in color in the dark and the ability to pan 360°. Like many of Wyze’s products, it’s packed with features for the $39.99 price tag ($50 on Amazon). Be sure to check out the video below to see all of the details. 

Late last fall, the folks at Bowers & Wilkins resurrected one of the most iconic speakers in the company’s stable, or really any other brand’s for that matter. Fifteen years after its first introduction, the Bowers & Wilkins Zeppelin is making a second debut with new modern features like AirPlay 2 – all in that classic and utterly novel design. But, is the Zeppelin’s signature look all it’s cracked up to be, even with some refreshed functionality?

DJI might be best known for drones and camera stabilizers, but it is also branching out into audio. The DJI Mic kit has everything needed to get great wireless audio from up to two people at the same time. While it’s a great accessory for the recent DJI Action 2, the vast compatibility makes it a great choice for many applications. Be sure to hit the video below to see and hear all of the details.