I'm of the belief that anything is better so long as it glows in the dark, but I did grow up in the 90s, where having a glowing solar system stuck on your ceiling was the epitome of cool. But, one of the most annoying issues of anything glow-in-the-dark was ensuring it charged up properly.

Dbrand has thought of that, and every Glowbot order comes with a free UV light. So you can charge it up without having to hold up your pricey tech to the light in your living room like I had to back in the day.

This "HD remaster" of the original skin collection, as Dbrand puts it, is available but only for a limited time. So if you're desperate to make your gaming setup look like it crawled out of Fallout 4, you need to be quick. You have until May 23 at 12:01 AM EST to grab one for your PS5, smartphone, laptop, iPad, Steam Deck, or Nintendo Switch, and they're only available through the official Dbrand storefront.

The good news is that this release ties into a Dbrand sale, and you can already secure 11% off whatever Glowbot skin you have your heart set on. There's a lot range of discountsও available in what they're calling "The Big Short Sale," which includes 50% off its iconic Darkplate PS5 covers, 40% off Killswitch🎃 cases, and more.

If you don't want to cover up your precious console, picking up one of the 澳洲幸运5开奖号码历史查询:best PS5 controllers, the 澳洲幸运5开奖号码历史查询:best Xbox Series X controllers, or the 澳洲幸运5开奖号码历史查询:best Nintendo Switch controllers can help give it a well-needed boost.

Key specs

Design

The Sennheiser HD 550 isn’t sporting a fresh new look. Its wired design takes after the HD 560S, featuring the same all-black colorway and oval-shaped, open-back earcups. In fact, they look so similar, I’d be hard-pressed to tell them apart if they were sitting next to each other. That’s not to say the HD 550 doesn’t look on point. It has that minimalistic and sleek aesthetic that Sennheiser is known for, and its subtle inclusion of its logos at the edge of each side of the headband, and perched upon the open-back silver girls, feels in-keeping with the headphone’s more mature, audiophile target audience.

The most noticeable aspect of the HD 550’s, which I really appreciated, was the velvety padded cushions, which feel like the epitome of luxury. Typically, I prefer a leather-like coating, like the one found on the 澳洲幸运5开奖号码历史查询:SteelSeries Arctis Nova Pro꧅ Wireless, as they tend to be more comfortable and don’t send me into sensory shock, like with some itchy fabric-coated alternatives. However, I was pleasantly surprised by just how cushy the HD 550’s felt after multiple hours pressed against my face. At just 247g, its lightweight nature will also be a contributing comfort factor, and Sennheiser noted in their briefing that the tightening force has been reduced with this headphone iteration to improve on comfort ev𝓀en further. But I can’t over-emphasize how much I missed the velvet-like feeling the second I had to move on to testing my next headset.

The HD 550 has one major difference between the best gaming headsets, wired or wireless, 🌃and that’s the open-back design on either cup. Instead of the audio drivers being relinquished to circulating air (and audio waves) betw🐼een themselves and your eardrums, with this gaming pair of headphones, the audio travels at the back of each driver, and sounds off from the silver-colored grill on either side. This makes them pretty unusable if you’re recording any audio for a podcast, or want to chat away to friends over Discord. Which was disappointing given the HD 550 comes with a 3.5 to 6.35 mm screw-on jack adapter, which fits perfectly into my go-to audio interface, the Focusrite Scarlet 2i2.

Any microphone you own, like the 澳洲幸运5开奖号码历史查询:Shure MV7i, is gonna pick up the audio from the open-back speakers, so using them outside of gaming, or music-listening is pretty much a no-go. This isn't just an issue with the HD 550’s specifically, as it’s a flaw of the open-back design in general, and goes with the territory. But it’s also worth acknowledging that if you happen to game in close quarters with a friend, or your partner like I do, anyone else in the room with you is going to hear what you’re listening to, whether you want them to or not. However, this open-back design comes with a huge plus, as it offers up a more natural soundscape to your games. Or as Sennheiser puts it, they allow you “hea🌃r details you’d never noticed before.”

Features

I went in originally expecting the Sennheiser HD 550s to rival all the wired headsets I’ve used in the past, at least in features alone. But the HD 550 isn’t really a gaming headset. There’s no RGB lighting options, no audio customizability or presets, and naturally, no Bluetooth or 2.4GHz connectivity options as found on the 澳洲幸运5开奖号码历史查询:best wireless headsets, so you can’t chat away to your pals via Discord without being at the mercy of wireless. In fact, there’s no microphone at all.

The HD 550 is instead a beginner audiophile headset, which can be used with the PS5, Nintendo Switch, Steam Deck, or any gaming platform with a 3.5mm jack compatibility, which can offer up audio playback, and that’s pretty much all you get. If you only play single-player games, like Clair Obscur: Expedition 33, or Lost Records, then this will suit you fine, as you don’t need much else besides being able to hear the complexities of a great soundtrack, character dialogue, and the directions of footsteps, and that sort of thing. But I’d argue that a gaming headset (even of the wired variety) is always going to be a more ideal pick up than an average pair of audiophile headphones due to the conjoined wealth of features at play, which can get you far more value out of your pricey pixel-pusher.

At least for your $229.95 / £249.99, you do get the wired Sennheiser HD 550 headphones, a carrying bag, and a 3.5mm to 6.35mm jack adaptor, which is better than nothing. I always prefer anything that starts to delve into the higher range of pricing for gaming accessories to come with some storage, whether that be a draw-string carrying case like this pair, or a hardened zip-up alternatiꦉ🥃ve.

Performance

When I was sitting in on the brief for the HD 550, the Sennheiser rep noted that they were not in the business of making gaming headsets, but that this pair of cups was great for gaming, “why any audiophile headset is good for gaming.” Naturally, that should mean that as audiophile headphones make everything sound more grandiose and detailed, they should do the same for games on consoles like the PS5, PC, Nintendo Switch, and anything in between.

After multiple weeks with the HD 550s as my headphones of choice, they definitely made everything sound incredible, that’s for sure. Like with the 澳洲幸运5开奖号码历史查询:best PS5 gaming headsets, I first chose to see how the headphones dealt with Marvel Rivals, a game where hearing dialogue and the frenzied calls of characters’ Ultimate moves was a necessity to ensure a victorious match. The wide 6 Hz – 39.5 kHz frequency response made everything from Squirrel Girl’s “squirrel stampede” shouting to the charming dialogue interactions before every match sound as if they were happening right next to me, and that’s without any spatial audio tech support to be found.

On the PC version of the game, everything sounded just as clear, and I had the added bonus of being able to adjust the volume on my desktop, as there are zero onboard controls with the HD 550s. Not so much as a volume wheel. On the PS5, you can adjust the volume through the console’s settings, but even when set to full, it still felt a bit on the quiet side. With no voice chat to test, as there’s also no microphone, I then sought to see how these dealt with a game that features music pretty prominently, with Don’t Nod’s Lost Records. The second part of the game was released during those weeks of testing the HD 550s, and felt like an ideal modern game to take the headphones for a rest drive, due to its importance placed on music from the 90s era, like the Cocteau Twins’ ‘Cherry-coloured Funk.’

In the end, I much preferred using the 澳洲幸运5开奖号码历史查询:Corsair Void Wireless V2 for Lost Records, if I have to be honest. Namely, due to its compatibility with Dolby Atmos and surround sound, which brought areas like the dusty old bar, the Blue Spruce, to life. That being said, the natural sound of the open-back design added a bit of depth to the original score of the game, which made tracks like ‘The Abyss’ sound more unnerving, which suited the supernatural elements of the game’s narrative. There wasn’t a loud, booming bass like with headsets with larger 50mm drivers, but everything from the low, mid, and high frequencies sounded balance♌d, with no audible distortion even at its loudest on the Sony con൲sole.

April was pretty stacked with new releases perfect for testing, as Clair Obscur Expedition 33 also dropped during my time with Sennheiser’s latest headphones. The score by composer Lorien Testard evoked the same wistful feeling I had when discovering Nobuo Uematsu’s music for the first time, and so it felt incredibly appropriate to see how it fared on tech intended for audiophiles. When exploring the bizarre underwater depths of the Flying Waters area, the dance-like beats came through nicely and balanced through the speaker drivers. I was missing that punchy bass quality, which I heard on the 澳洲幸运5开奖号码历史查询:SteelSeries Arctis Nova 5P, but ev♐ery important audio queue in battles was as audible and clear as day. This didn’t mean I was any better at dodging or parrying than with my go-to gaming headset, of course, but that’s unfortunately a skill issue, and not an audio on🌼e.

Lastly, I made sure to make them my headphones of choice when not just gaming, but catching up with shows on streaming services like Netflix and Crunchyroll. For some reason, I hadn’t yet finished season two of the anime Spy X Family, but the HD 550’s were easily plugged into the 3.5 jack into my DualSense controller, and made Anya’s adorable cries sound as charming as ever. I also made sure to plug the headphones into my turntable, and give it a listen while popping on game soundtracks.

Normally, I’d stick with my fancy Edifier speakers, but as I know a lot of audiophiles prefer a wired setup when listening to vinyl, it felt like the right thing to do. I’m not a fan of being at the mercy of wires, especially as my soda is on the other side of the room from my music and gaming setup, but the OST to games like Vib Ribbon, or Far Cry 3 Blood Dragon sounded bright and full. Again, I just missed that overtly-loud booming bass that makes headsets like the 澳洲幸运5开奖号码历史查询:Corsair Virtuoso Max one of my favorite PS5 headsets.

Should you buy the Sennheiser HD 550 headphones for gaming?

At $229.95 / £249.99, the Sennheiser HD 550 feels awkward to recommend. By all means, it’s a high-quality wired pair of headphones, and its wider frequency range brings out the extra nuances of soundscapes of games from Marvel Rivals to Clair Obscur Expedition 33. However, I’m hard pressed to recommend it for anyone for gaming, unless you’re looking to start your audiophile journey and also want something to use for your PC, PS5 or Nintendo Switch on the side, and have the cash to spare.

Gaming headsets and headphones are entirely different entities, with their own set of features and design choices that lend themselves to what you’re actually planning to use them for. While I entirely appreciate looking at gaming headsets through an almost purely audio quality lens, especially as someone who comes from a background of studying music, gaming headsets should have a certain number of features that make them ideal, for, well, gaming. As of typing, there is a plethora of headsets, like the 澳洲幸运5开奖号码历史查询:Razer Barracuda X, that bring not just a wired connection to the table, but Bluetooth, 2.4GHz, and a detachable microphone, and despite its age, it still sounds utterly fantastic even in 2025.

With the HD 550, I don’t see the value ౠin spending more for less, unless you’re a hardened audiophile, or want to be one, and value sound quality above all else. Otherwise, alternatives like Razer’s Barracuda X are available for under $100, which is especially important at a time when gaming tech is getting more expensive by the day. If you’re a music nerd and want a pair of headphones that you can pop into your record player and also into your DualSense, then I can see the HD 550’s being an entirely valid choice. But the general gaming public is not going to notice a drastic difference in sound quality, which♑ makes the $229.95 price feel a little hard to justify.

Even just as far as open-back options go, the 澳洲幸运5开奖号码历史查询:Corsair Virtuoso Pro also produces a natural and balanced sound, but has an MSRP of $199.99. It’s also🍌 wired but provides a “broadcast quality” omn♎idirectional microphone, and its audio can be customized through iCue, with various presets available, designed with gaming and streaming in mind. Of course, if money isn’t an issue, and you want an alternative to Sennheiser’s HD560S that’s more optimized for comfort and sound, then by all means add this to your gaming and music listening setup. I’m just not entirely convinced there’s enough value to gain from the HD 550 when there’s plenty more affordable, and feature-heavy wired headsets out there today.

How I tested the Sennheiser HD 550 headphones

For over two weeks, I tested the Sennheiser HD 550 headphones for gaming by making them my new go-to pair of cups for my PS5, Nintendo Switch, Steam Deck, and every device imaginable. During that time, when not completing Tape 2 of Lost Records on the PS5, or playing through Clair Obscur: Expedition 33, I was using the headphones to complete my daily tasks in Marvel Rivals, and rack up as many MVP matches as Cloak and Dagger as I could on the PS5 and PC.

During times when I actually put both the DualSense controller and my Steam Deck down, the HD 550 became my go-to pair of headphones to catch up with anime like season two of Spy X Family, and get through the last season of You on Netflix. I also used them to listen to game soundtracks I had on vinyl on my AudioTechnica record player, to get that full audiophile experience. Additionally, I used the wired headphones with my PC to listen to Irish rappers Kneecap on Spotify, alongside the OST to the game, Lost Records, which became a running theme of this review. For more information on 澳洲幸运5开奖号码历史查询:how we test gaming headsets, check out the full 澳洲幸运5开奖号码历史查询:GamesRadar+ Hardware Policy.

Our 澳洲幸运5开奖号码历史查询:best PC headsets for gaming are full to the brim with the 澳洲幸运5开奖号码历史查询:best headsets for Nintendo Switch, and the 澳洲幸运5开奖号码历史查询:best Xbox Series X headsets, if you’re after a pair of cups with one of your beloved gaming headsets in mind.

Okay, here's my plan to keep the original Switch once my 澳洲幸运5开奖号码历史查询:Switch 2 pre-order arrives. First, I'll pair it with the Marseille mClassic, a dongle designed to upscale the 澳洲幸运5开奖号码历史查询:gaming handheld's visua🎃ls to 1440p while giving its graphics a glow-up. I've already got one to hand, but you can grab one thanks to a 20% discount. It'll normally set you back $99.99, which is a little rich for my blood, so it's nice to see it drop back to the same price as new game🦹s like Mario Kart World.

Once I've got the OG Switch dock connected to the mClassic, I'm going to hook it up to a 1440p 澳洲幸运5开奖号码历史查询:gaming monitor. Sticking to a native QHD screen means the dongle will be able to properly upscale 720p perfectly, resulting in sharper visuals than you'd get when using the handheld in 1080p mode on a 4K 澳洲幸运5开奖号码历史查询:gaming TV.

This isn't going to turn your original handheld into a Switch 2 by any means, but it will take the edge off of its aging graphics. Typically speak🎀ing, TVs and monitors are💯n't great at upscaling resolutions by themselves, so upscalers like the mClassic help provide cleaner results with generally less blur and symptoms like shimmering.

On top of that, the mClassic boasts patented "contextual processing" algorithms that will actively enhance Switch visuals.🌊 The tech effectively uses a mix of anti-aliasing and sharpening wizardry to patch up jaggeꦺd edges and messy outlines, which in turn adds a subtle layer of definition to the resulting output.

I'd argue the players most likely to benefit from the mClassic are ones who already think the Switch looks a bit ruꦚsty in 2025. If you tend to hop between a PS5 or a higher-spec gaming PC, you'll have probably noticed low-res shenanigans spoiling your jaunt through Hyrule. The touch-ups can be pretty passive, but you can actively see the anti-aliasing, sharpening, and color correction in action if you look closely at Link's facial features and outfit in Breath of the Wild.

I also really enjoy what the mClassic does for Kirby and the Forgotten Kingdom. I can actually completely understand why the platformer is getting a Switch Edition since the pink puffball looks a little jaggy on the OG handheld, but the upscaler actually smoothed the hun👍gry boi out a little and soothed some of the aliasing. These are all symptoms that normally make me feel like I shouldn't be using a larger screen, so the dongle helps using a monitor or TV not to feel so icky.

Tꦑhe mClassic isn't perfect, and I can see why some people would assume it is Switch accessory snake oil. For starters, it's not quite producing the same upscaling effects as some devices, and while there's a toggle on the standard device for retro gaming, you'll still want to u⛄se something like an OSSC to properly deal with resolutions under 720p.

I also wish the mClassic provided some sort of interface for tweaking specific settings relating to upscaling, coloꦇr correction, and aliasing levels. Instead, the dongle uses that aforementioned three-step toggle to either enable passthrough visuals, switch on the algorithm, or enable a third option that ties in with your chosen model. 🌊The original red version uses this as a retro mode, whereas the specific blue Switch Edition adds additional contrast balances to enhance things.

The green Retro Edition naturally isn't going to benefit a Switch setup since it's designed to enhance retro console resolutions in a 4:3 aspect ratio. I'm not saying the gadget won't come in handy in the right hands, and I'll likely circle back to its benefits n🥀ext time I'm 𝕴working on my classic game setup. But, it's not going to do much for Ninty's newer console, so stick to either the red or blue mClassic.

For under $80, the mClassic will help your Switch serve as a secondary console without looking too haggard. Naturally, if you're planning on playing solely in handheld mode, you're not going to need this dongle. But, if you need a way to chip through your Ninty library using a secondary setup, or you're not buying the Switch 2 straight away, this upscaler will provide some nice⭕ enhancements.

Using Valve's handheld instead? Swing by the 澳洲幸运5开奖号码历史查询:best Steam Deck dock and 澳洲幸运5开奖号码历史查询:best Steam Deck accessories for useful add-ons.

Now let's get the Switch-shaped elephant out of the room: with the 澳洲幸运5开奖号码历史查询:Nintendo Switch 2 just days from lauch, you might be a bit reluctant to pick up the Genki Cover Dock 2, even if it's currently just right now thanks to Amazon's Gaming Week. That's entirely understandable, especially as it's not compatible with Nintendo's latest gaming machine. Yet, if you're not able to make the kind of commitment it takes to invest in a new device, grabbing one of the 澳洲幸运5开奖号码历史查询:best Nintendo Switch accessories like this Genki Covert Dock can get you even more value out of the original Switch.

Typically, this second iteration of ඣGenki's iconic charger-dock hybrid device likes to sit around its full MSRP of $69.99. Thanks to Amazon's week of gaming-themed sales, it's currently 17% off, saving you $10 in the🌠 process. Sure, during last year's Black Friday sales, it was an additional $2 off, but even at just $49.99, you're still getting a portable dock and travel charger all in one, which is an absolute bargain.

Should you buy the Genki Covert Dock 2?

First off, if you've had your pre-order for the Nintendo Switch 2 sorted for a while now, this Genki Covert Dock 2 won't be for you. It's much better to wait and see what Genki has cooking up for the upcoming handheld, especially if you're already got plans to trade in your original Switch to put it towards Nintendo's latest shiny bit of tech.

With that out of the way, the 澳洲幸运5开奖号码历史查询:Genki Covert Dock is worth your time if you want to stretch out that 8-year lifespan of one of the 澳洲幸运5开奖号码历史查询:best gaming handhelds even further. I don't have one of my own, but since joining the hardware team here at GamesRadar, I haven't heard the end of it praises being sung, which is making this current saving hard to ignore, even when I take into consideration the small fortune I've invested in the Switch 2 so far.

In her 澳洲幸运5开奖号码历史查询:Genki Covert Dock review, our team's own Tabitha Baker exclaimed that the accessory is a "revelation" and due to its size (especially compared to the origi💧nal Switch dock), and that anyone who regularly takes their Nintendo handheld on the road will "find the best value" with the gadget. That's because this little thing can provide ample juice to your Switch thanks to its 45W power output. If you've lost the official AC adaptor or don't like taking it with you on your travels, this can provide a fast charge to your handheld.

But the icing on the Switch accessory cake doesn't just lay with its USB-C port, but it's also a portable Switch dock too. If you've ever wanted to take your Switch to your parents for some Mario Party fun but begrudge packing the bulky dock, you can simply plug your Switch into the USB-C port, and an HDMI cable into the dock, and you're good to go. It's even got support for 4K TVs as well, should you need it.

As a word of warning, this isn't compatible with any Switch Lite model, due to its lack of a video output. And, as I've mentioned before, 💟it won't be compatible with the Switch 2 either. But if you're feeling left out of the Switch 2 pre-order chatter, and want a new accessory to give your older Switch a new lease of life, the Genki Covert Dock 2 is a good start - especially while it's less than $50 for a limited time.

If you haven't secured a 澳洲幸运5开奖号码历史查询:Nintendo Switch 2 pre-order and are opting to stick with your current handheld, picking up one of the 澳洲幸运5开奖号码历史查询:best Nintendo Switch SD cards, the 澳洲幸运5开奖号码历史查询:best Nintendo Switch headsets, or one of the 澳洲幸运5开奖号码历史查询:best Nintendo Switch controllers can help you get even more value out of your beloved Ninty machine.

Where to pre-order Switch 2 controllers

Where to pre-order Switch 2 Camera

Where to pre-order Switch 2 Express Cards

Where to pre-order Switch 2 Cases

Where to pre-order Switch 2 Dock Set

Switch 2 Accessory Pre-Order FAQ

Do you actually need Switch 2 accessories?

No, you don't need extra Nintendo Switch 2 accessories in order to enjoy the upcoming handheld. The console comes with all you need to get it hooked up, including a set of Joy-Con 2 controllers so you can get right into the next-generation Ninty fun. However, grabbing some additional bits and bobs, from the Switch 2 Pro controller, to some more storage via one a microSD Express card, can improve your experience with the handheld further.

If you don't quite like the feel of the flat-backs of the Jo🐓y-Cons, the Pro controller has a more ergonomic shape, and is a lot more comfortable to hold. Additionally, the 256GB worth of onboard storage might not be enough for your needs, and so grabbing the SanDisk or Samsung 356GB microSD Express card can ensure you have plenty of extra space for game installs, screenshots and more.

Whether these are right for your Switch 2 gaming setup is entirely up to you, but you don't need to grab them right now, especially if you don't quite have the budget. The more we get into the Switch 2's life-span, the more accessories (both first and third-party) will become available, and hopefully some discounts along with them, so it's entirely va𝓡lid to wait.

If you're sticking to your current Switch for now, picking up one of the 澳洲幸运5开奖号码历史查询:best Nintendo Switch controllers, the 澳洲幸运5开奖号码历史查询:best Nintendo Switch SD cards, or the 澳洲幸运5开奖号码历史查询:best Nintendo Switch headsets can push a little bit more value out of the older handheld.

Hold up, before you get excited, just know that the Razer Monitor Stand Chroma comes in at $199 / £169. Let’s be real – that’s a big ask since many of the 澳洲幸运5开奖号码历史查询:best gaming monitor options practically boast the same features as this desk accessory, including height adjustment, a USB hub, and even RGB lighting. Ultimately, this add-on is for those of you with an older screen that could d⛎o with a little love, and ꦐeven then, there’s a case to be made for just putting the $200 towards a new display.

I’m off to a harsh start with the Monitor Stand Chroma, but bear with me, as it does have plenty of decent qualities. As a 澳洲幸运5开奖号码历史查询:gaming desk accessory, it’s going to help tie your setup together with centralized connectivity and more roo🃏m for storage. It also looks pretty snazzy once you’ve got everything set up and Razer’s RGB lights twinkling, and for some of you out there, $200 could help breathe some life into your ensemble.

Design

Razer has this whole thing of making surprisingly understated accessories. You wouldn’t think that to be the case since it’s one of the older “gamer” brands out there that’s renowned for 𝓀arming everything in RGB. However, most peripherals on the market right now by the gadget maker are pretty minimalist, and the Monitor Stand Chroma follows that trend.

The Razer Monitor Stand Chroma is effectively one big piece of aluminum with no detailing or notable emblems on its exterior. At a glance, I could see myself mistaking it for an ordinary desk riser with no fe♕atures beyond being a couple of inches high, but that’s great if you’re trying to tie it in with an existing setup easily.

It's going to effectively look like a natural part of a black desk, especially if you use something like the Secretlab Magnus Pro. That was likely the intention with the Razer Monitor Stand Chroma, so just to be awkward, I’ve pitched it up on top of the dark woodgrain Flexispot E7 Plus. It thankfully doesn’t look out of place, ♈and the desk’s surface actually has enough sheen to nicely bounce the RGB lighting stowed away under the front lip.

At this stage, I’d be appalled if Razer didn’t get RGB placement right. With the Monitor Stand Chroma, it places a diffused strip out of sight underneath so that you’ll never directly see the diodes or any 🐻illumination. Instead, you’ll get a gentle glow that’s bright enough to be worth having but avoids looking garish or piercing your eyeballs. I’ve witnessed enough bad lighting attempts in my lifetime, from undiffused strips around friends' walls to accessories with single, exposed LEDs, so I’ve come to appreciate the art of tasteful illumination.

Everything else the Razer Monitor Stand Chroma has tꦓo offer is on the right. You’ll find two USB ports and a USB-C on the side and a port for power and HDMI on the back. I’m in two minds about this placement since havin🍌g wires firing outwards can look a little messy, but most players are going to use these connections for easy access or when using a portable device like a gaming handheld or laptop.

As a riser, the physical side of things arguably matters more, so it’s worth delving into what the Razer Monitor Stand Chroma offers in terms of space. On top, you’re getting a 500 mm x 210 mm rectangle platform for your monitor to sit on, and if you’ve got a regular pedestal stand, that’s going to work just ꦜfine. I’m currently using the Alienware AW2725Q to test, and it’s an ideal candidate side its base fits on top like a glove.

That said, if your screen has a V-shaped stand, you may run into some issues with the Monitor Stand Chroma. You’ll have a bit of overhang if using something like the Lenovo 澳洲幸运5开奖号码历史查询:Legion Y34wz-30, and you’ve got no chance of perching the澳洲幸运5开奖号码历史查询: BenQ Mobiuz EX321UX on top since it opts for a narrower angle. Simply put, you’ll have to get the measuring tape out before buying this add-on for your current screen, and I’d say it’s better suited to 27-inch panels with a centralized pedesꦛtal.

As above, so below – the Razer Monitor Stand Chroma uses that same footprint to return some space to you on the underside. It’s easy to forget that monitor stands are effectively eating up play space, and options like the 澳洲幸运5开奖号码历史查询:Sony Inzone M10S active﷽ly try and keep pedestals ultra low profile so you can still use the area under your screen, desk risers still make for the best way to claw back some ground.

I do think Razer has missed a big trick when it comes to height, though. Gaming keyboards, laptops, handhelds, and💎 other gadgets are all going to tuck nicely under the riser, but you can forget about most soundbars. Even the company’s own Leviathan V2 is too tall and wide to slide underneath, which just feels plain silly.

Still, as someone who sometimes does more than play Overwatch 2 at their gaming de♎sk, it’s nice having somewhere to throw my keyboard and mouse while keeping them within reach. I have a bad habit of actually moving all my peripherals out of sight when modding Game Boys or working on PC builds, but this riser has empowered me to not do that so as to 𓆏still have easy access to my rig during projects.

Features

Razer’s Monitor Stand ✤really has one main mission – add height to your screen. It’s a boring endeavour, but as someone who was a “DSE” (display screen equipment) assessor for an office in a previous life, I’m fully aware of the importance of ergonomics. Plenty of screens out there these days are height adjustable, but older and cheaper models won’t be able to pull themselves to your eyeline. Some more recent examples include the KOORUI GN02, but even screens like the Odyssey G5 aren’t maneuverable.

I’m not going to dictate to you how high your screen should be, as that’s no fun. However, just know that if your monitor is too high or low, it can lead to neck strain and other issues if you sit at a desk for long sessions. These are normally warnings that crop up in working environments where repetitive strain is a risk, but I’𝓰ve experienced a notable difference in the wa🍎y I play shooters like Overwatch 2 when things aren’t at the right height. Looking at the wrong angle greatly impacts how I’m able to throw around my mouse and respond in game, so that’s worth noting if you’re trying to nail a comfortable, competitive setup.

There aren’t many screens out there these days that aren’t height adjustable, but if you do end up with the likes of the cheaper 澳洲幸运5开奖号码历史查询:KOORUI GN02 or even the older Samsung Odyssey G5, the Razer Monitor Stand Chroma could be a big help. Yes, there are risers out there that aren’t $200, but you are🧔 getting more than just a plinth here.

For starters, the built-in USB 3.2 hub will provide your rig with additional speed ports, and that could be incredibly useful if, like me, you’re overwhelming your system with peripherals. You’ll also be able to tap into HDMI 2.0 output, but it won’t replace your 澳洲幸运5开奖号码历史查询:Steam Deck dock since there’s no Power Delivery functionality here or compatibility with an external charger. It will work well with something like the 澳洲幸运5开奖号码历史查询:Lenovo Legion Go S, though, since that handheld has a 🃏separate port for charging and 🌞accessories.

It’s got Chroma in the name, so you should be surprised that Razer’s🍸 Monitor Stand features strong RGB abilities. You’ll be able to dive into a wealth of customization options using the brand’s Synapse and dedicated Chroma app, enabling you to do to everything from sync up other devices with the sale color patterns, set the riser to respond to specific PC games, and even using it as a music visualizer.

I’ve currently got the riser flashing away to the sweet sounds of Satanized by Ghost as I write this, and it’s giving PS1 CD player visualizer vibes. You can also sync Chroma up to compatible games, but from what I can tell, updates can completely disrupt compatibility. Cyberpunk 2077 is seemingly a victim of that since it completely failed to respond, but I managed to get DOOM up 🐻and running with some aggressive red flashing when near fire and bright green pickups.

The color customization is seemingly endless with the Razer Chroma app since you can tweak things based on specific lighting zones and set ambient awareness for your on-screen visuals. There’s a deep RGB rabbit hole to be found here, and if you’re not into messing around with complex options, you’ll have less to gain from the Monitor Stand. It can also be a pain messing around with all the various dials since changing one setting can come with consequences, and after I inadvertently set things incorrectly in Synapse🎉, it took me around 20 minutes to work out what the issue was.

Performance

In its default state, the Razer Monitor Stand Chroma performs as it should – linking up to connected devices, providing HDMI output, and dressing up your desk with a nice RGB glow. I didn’t have to deal with any weird connection issues via USB-C, and I was able to use the riser as a makeshift docking station ✤for the Lenovo Legion Go S without a hitch. I couldn’t get the Steam Deck OLED to play ball, though, since there’s no way to power everything with Valve’s handheld hooked up.

Physically, the stand is also solid, and I doubt you’ll find a monitor that will stress out the metal frame. The coated aluminium is pretty robust too, so it should hold up wear and tear wise without looking scrappy over time. I wouldn’t really expect anything less from a $200 riser, but it’s stil𝔍l a reason to invest over plastic and MDF alternatives.

The built-in RGB lighting is pretty pleasing and offers up full coverage across the stand’s width, but brightness is limited. The illumination does work work cranked up to 100%, so I wouldn’t say it’s completely missing the mark. Where itꦡ did start to matter is in games like DOOM where it felt like it was reduced to 50% when trying to sync up with on-screen colors.

That could be a symptom of general game compatibility and the Synapse Chroma app combo, which comes with its fair share of quirks. On occasion, the Monitor Stand would just go in a huff in response to me switching options, either getting stuck on specific colors or turning illumination off entirely. I’m also not really buying the need for separate programs for hardware configuration and customizing RGB, as haviꦜng to hop between both just feels like a faff.

Should you buy the Razer Monitor Stand Chroma?

The Razer Monitor Stand Chroma makes for a premium perch for your gaming monitor with some ultra-stylish RGB abilities to boot. Whether you’ll want to fork out $200 for one is a different story, as it absolutely feels more like a luxury that will only bring ergonomi𓄧c benefits to some screens without height adjustability. Even then, the pedestal size will hamper your efforts to successfully plop some displays on top of this add-on, which again narrows down the number of players who can actually enjoy this riser.

If you love all things Razer and would 🦋like to add even more RGB to your desk, the Monitor Stand Chroma will already be on your wishlist. Otherwise, I’d wait for a decent discount before considering the riser. It's pretty, well-made, and has some nice connectivity features, but you could use the funds to pick up a newer monitor that will solve more than half of those issues.

But hey, at least it will give you🃏 some𒉰where to shove your keyboard when you decide to build some Lego instead of diving into Steam games.

How I tested the Razer Monitor Stand Chroma

For two weeks, I used the Razer Monitor Stand Chroma as parꦬt of my main gaming setup by plugging it into my gaming PC. In that time, I used the integra🍷ted hub with my gaming keyboard and mouse to test reliability and speed, but I also plugged in the Lenovo Legion Go S to access the riser’s HDMI 2.0 output on a mobile device.

To try out Synpase and Chroma features, I played various tracks on Spotify with the stand’s visu🏅alization settings and games like DOOM and Cyberpunk 2077 to check game integration. I also spent time in each app adjusting each setting to assess effectiveness and whether each would function as intended.

For more information on how we review desk accessories and other add-ons, check out our full 澳洲幸运5开奖号码历史查询:GamesRadar+ hardware policy.

Chargers like the Acefast Desktop Power Station Z4 are a testament to the benefits of Gallium Nitride (GaN) tech, and I honestly believe they make the 澳洲幸运5开奖号码历史查询:best gaming desk even better. The last thing you want cluttering your picture-perfect setup is a spaghetti monster consisting of handheld and accessory chargers, and that’s inevitable if you’ve got a PC and need to juice upyour 澳洲幸运5开奖号码历史查询:gaming handheld, smartphone, or anything else with a chonky battery. Up until now, I’ve been persevering with having multiple adapters at my feet, and thanks to ꦇthe whopping 218W abilities of Acefact’s mighty GaN supply, I’ll never need to torment my tootsies ever again. 

Priced at $89.99, the Power Station Z4 isn’t🅺 remotely a cheap charging solution, and you’ll also need to pick up some USB-C cables for your devi☂ces. So, if merging all your chargers into something smaller than most Steam Deck docks isn’t a personal priority, then I won’t blame you for sticking with separate adapters. However, now that I’ve tested Acefast’s solution, this Power Delivery hub justifies its premium price tag through its versatile charging abilities, and it also understands the assignment when it comes to stylish subtlety. 

Specs

The Power Station Z4 is an outright testament to the benefits of GaN chargers, not least because we’re talking about 218W via a single brick. I’m actually even hes༒itant to use old terms like “brick” since the hub itself isn’t remotely large, measuring in at around 3.5 inches wide and 4 inches deep.

Despite its incredibly compact size, Acefast has also managed to squeeze aಌ 1.3-inch color TFT dis🅷play onto the front of the device that serves as an incredibly useful visual aid when toggling between all the different wattage options this charger provides. There are multiple ways to divvy up the 218W this hub can pump out through its three USB-C ports and single USB-A port, in turn allowing it to be more efficient when bulk charging devices. 

Design

If I’m being honest, Acefast didn’t really need to make the Power Stat𝐆ion Z4 pretty. I mean, the main goal of most chargers is to simply provide power to connected devices and blend into the background. Yet, this GaN hub makes sure to give you something eye-catching to look at if you happen to glance in its direction by pairing its grey housing with a transparent front panel. 

I’m a 90s c♈hild, so I inherently have an infinity for transparent tech. Don’t get me wrong, I also think making the entirety of a device translucent ca🐽n result in tacky vibes, but the Z4 reveals just enough to put on an intriguing show. Even if you have no idea what the difference between a resistor, a capacitor, and an IC chip is, you’ll still have lots of fun peering within when connecting things to the front. I’m trying to resist referencing that video with Swedish pop sensation , but I’m sure you get the idea.

Despite boasting its own aesthetic, sticking with grey also allows the Z4 to blend in with the vibe of your specific surface. I’ve currently got it parked on the 澳洲幸运5开奖号码历史查询:Flexispot E7 Plus, and the small block looks like a natural inclusion rather than something out of place. If the small illuminated screen on the front feels visually disruptive to your setup, you can also switch it off by holding down the button on front, so you won’t even have to com♛promise on functionality to achieve your desired look.

The Z4 manages to keep just enough weight to keep it feeling sturdy and secure at 1.44 lbs (655g). That heft, combined with cross-bar rubber feet at the bottom, keeps it from skating around your desk whenever you move a cable – a pet peeve of mine that can make me feel too nervous to use hubs like this. I’m charging the 澳洲幸运5开奖号码历史查询:Asus ROG Phone 8 Pro using the hub as I write this, and having dropped my phone off of the desk with the cable attached just moments ago, I can confirm the Z4 barely moved an inch. Instead, it sort of just hung onto the device while it precariously dangled for a few seconds, s๊aving it from clattering onto the floor. 

Features

Naturally, the Power Station Z💖4’s main draw is multi-device charging, but it’s the way it supplies juice that’s the star feature. Rather than just sticking with fixed wattage for each port, you can toggle between four configurations that divide power up differently. Here’s a small table with each configuration to better illustrate what I mean before I dive into the “why” of it all:

Having the ability to decide output levels for each port is a huge win on the versatility front, as it increases your chances of providing exactly what your chosen devices require. For example, I charge my gaming laptop, 澳洲幸运5开奖号码历史查询:Steam Deck OLED, phone, and wireless earbuds regularlyꦇ, and ‘Mode A’ allows me to do all three at while meeting fast charging requirements. However, since I review handhelds, there have been instances when I’ve been looking to charge the Deck alongside two rivals and lower wattage accessories, which is where ‘Mode B’ comes into play. 

I could spend all day coming up with ridiculous charging examples that apply to me, but the core idea is that you won’t have to compromise on power to fast charge four devices. If, for whatever reason, you need to charge two laptops using power d𝐆elivery, you will have to dial things bac🍷k to three ports to hit 100W on the first two – hardly a compromise considering the outcome. 

Performance

When checking whether t♛he Acefast Z4 Powerstation lives up to my performance standards, I set out in search of three things. The first was reliability, as fancy chargers are only worthwhile if they can consistently deliver what your device requires. Secondly, I wanted to ensure I couldn’t feel too much excess heat coming from the hub – something that might be harmless but could make players feel paranoid about leaving it on. Lastly, I considered whether the setup of the cha🍰rger is actually handy in real life rather than just impressive on paper. 

I’m thrilled to report that the Z4 managed to impress me on all fronts, leaving no concerns or wants tied to the experience it provides. I was able to make good use of all four wattage modes on multiple occasions, and it’s something of a godsend for charging up everything before heading out for the day. The part that impresses me most is being able to satiate the needs of premium handhelds like the 澳洲幸运5开奖号码历史查询:Ayaneo Flip DS while still charging other power-hungry devices like an 澳洲幸运5开奖号码历史查询:Asus TUF Dash F15, a𝓡s it feels like there’s got to beꦚ a catch somewhere.

In my spare time, I love to head out to the woodland near my house and go for short hikes. I originally star๊ted doing it as a way to escape screens when off-duty, but the escapade has turned into me often sitting 𒅌on tree stumps with a handheld. Of course, using portable PCs in a realm devoid of power outlets means I have to rely on power banks, not to mention I also end up using earphones so as not to disturb the squirrels with game noise (or creep anyone out on the nearby path).

Simply put, my backpack ends up full of things that need charging, which used to mean having a whole 🍌power strip of chargers hooked up to various doodads. Those days are long gone thanks to the Z4, as I now just neatly place everything I need on my desk and neatly connect everything up. Sometimes the devices in question need a boost change, and being able to select one of those four aforementioned modes has completely eliminated the need to reach for any other adapters. 

Should you buy the Acefast Desktop Powerstation Z4? 

 I💃 can think of multiple types of player that’ll benefit from what the Acefast Desktop Powerstation Z4 has to offer, especially those of you who now have a gaming handheld in their lives. At full price, it’s safe to say it’s not a casual purchase, but it can make all the difference to the way you charge your devices. Whether you’re a big advocate for desk cable management or just have plenty of gadgets thirsty for juice, this all-in-one charger will supply everything you need. 

In case i♍t wasn’t obvi🐲ous, I now use this charger for all gaming desk gadgets, and I don’t think I could go back to using separate adapters.

How I tested the Acefast Desktop Powerstation Z4 

For around two months, I used the Acefast Desktop▨ Powerstation Z4 to charge all my devices at my desk. My shortlist of gadgets includes handhelds like the Steam Deck and Ayaneo Flip DS, laptops like the Asus TUF Dash F15, the Asus ROG Phone 8 Pro, and other accessories like wireless earbuds. I used all those devices to assess the reliability and functionality of the charging hub while♊ keeping a look out for any flaws or caveats related to usage.

For more information on how we test accessories, take a peek at our 澳洲幸运5开奖号码历史查询:GamesRadar+ Hardware Policy. 

Looking to ditch your chair? Check out the 澳洲幸运5开奖号码历史查询:best standing desk options for ways to game on your feet. Alternatively, swing by the 澳洲幸运5开奖号码历史查询:best Steam Deck accessories and 澳洲幸运5开奖号码历史查询:best Steam Deck dock if you want more add-ons for your surface.

I promise that I'm trying to avoid referring to the Xbox 360 as one of the 澳洲幸运5开奖号码历史查询:best retro consoles, but in a sense, the 2000s platform is suffering the same fate as old-school systems. Sure, you can still use it with the 澳洲幸运5开奖号码历史查询:best gaming TV options today thanks to its 澳洲幸运5开奖号码历史查询:HDMI cable abilities, but it’s far from contemporary performance-wise. Low frame rates and aliasing plague the system w📖ith visuals that modern system owners and PC players will struggle with, and while I don’t have a remedy for the former, there are certainly ways to smooth things out. 

Okay, let’s delve into setup specifics – the upscaler I use for both Microsoft’s oldie and 澳洲幸运5开奖号码历史查询:gaming handhelds in my living room is the Marseilles mClass🔥ic. Normally, I talk about this dongle in the context of giving Nintendo Switch graphics a glow-up, but I actually use it with most older consoles with HDMI output. The reason? Well, it makes for a great way to easily upscale things up to 1440p on compatible screens, and it combats aliasing using a nifty algorithm.

Admittedly, I’ve actually been playing Xbox 360 games recently on two different setups, as I couldn't resist playing The Darkness on the 65-inch 澳洲幸运5开奖号码历史查询:LG OLED G4 I recently reviewed. However, 澳洲幸运5开奖号码历史查询:gaming monitor fans will be happy to hear I currently have the console plugged into the 澳洲幸运5开奖号码历史查询:Samsung OLED G6, and honestly? I think playing on a smaller QHD display is 🌺more worthwhile. That’s mostly due to the fact TVs annoyingly lack 1440p support, but the mClassic’s anti-aliasing efforts also shine brighter when not blowing things up.  

An Xbox 360 graphics redux 

Naturally, the mClassic doesn’t give the Xbox 360 the same capabilities as the Series X, as the new-gen console will render compatible releases at 4K. The big silly problem with opting for that approach is that the number of supported gamesౠ is extremely limited, so if you’re looking to revisit your physical collection or even games you downloaded before the demise of Marketplace, sticking with the OG system is your best bet. 

I’ve expꦐerimented with both approaches, and I can vouch for the results that the classic provides. In terms of scaling, the dongle does a far better job dialing everything up from 720p to 1440p than your display’s innards, avoiding typical latency issues and blurriness. As a tasty addition, you’ve also got that aforementioned anti-aliasing formula working hard to smooth out any weird edges or blurry text - something that makes one hell of a difference when you’re hopping between old and new systems (such is the curse of a hardware editor).

It’s worth keeping in mind that your mileage will vary with Xbox 360 games, especially the release🦩s that keep aliasing to a 🐬minimum. That said, I could immediately sniff out the benefits when playing both Alice: Madness Returns and The Darkness. You don’t even need to set off to Wonderland in American McGee’s gothic platformer to spot the difference, as the main menu’s 3D model features smoother hair strands and eyeliner. In-game, you’ll also get to enjoy fewer jaggies and less pixellated nonsense, bringing the adventure closer to the Steam version than ever (they’re worlds apart, but the point still stands).

The Darkness is an example of a game that handles aliasing well, so I admittedly felt less benefits from the mClassic’✅s algorithms. What I will say is that the game’s contꦺrast and colors appeared more balanced when using the dongle, not to mention the 1440p uplift beats messing around with 720p and monitor scaling. You will notice somewhat smoother edges if you focus on straight edges and some textures, even if there’s less to work with flaw-wise.

If you’re planning on properly diving into the Xbox 360’s library, but would rather stick with physical media, the mClassic is a sound investment. It’s relatively unobtrusive since it acts as a middleman between your console and HDMI cable, and you’ll even be able to use Microsoft’s ‘05 system to p൲ower it via USB. I’ll likely spend a good chunk of my summer re-exploring old favorites using this dongle, and now that the Marketplace has been laid  to rest, I’ve got the perfect excuse to pick up new games for my already full shelf. 

Looking for a way to play Game Pass on the go? Check out the 澳洲幸运5开奖号码历史查询:best gaming handheld and 澳洲幸运5开奖号码历史查询:best gaming laptop options for portable rigs. Alternatively, swing by the 澳洲幸运5开奖号码历史查询:best monitor for Xbox Series X if you need a new console screen.

If you pop over to Amazon right now, you'll find the Marseille mClassic , as a limited-time 澳洲幸运5开奖号码历史查询:Prime Day gaming deal has slashed 20% off the HDMI dongle. Normally, you'd have to fork out just under $100 for this Nintendo Switch accessory, and while I do hesitate to recommend it to everyone for that price, taking $20 off sends it to the top of my add-on priori💯ty list.

This isn't the first time the mClassic has dipped to under $80, and it has received smaller discounts already in 2024. Still, it's the first time the dongle has returned to its lowest price since December last year, which is a long time to wait if you've been holding off for discounts. Just keep in mind that you'll have to sign up for the subscription service to bag this sweet 澳洲幸运5开奖号码历史查询:Prime Day Nintendo Switch deal,🌞 not to mention there's one of those pesky percentage claimed bars filling up as we speak. 

Should you buy the mClassic?

I've said this before, but I was hyper-skeptical about the Marseille mClassic before testing. For what it's worth, it feels like I wasn't the only one, as the idea of a small 澳洲幸运5开奖号码历史查询:HDMI cable middleman magically giving your Nintendo Switch visuals a makeover sounds like a hardware snake oil pitch. However, once you get a feel for what the accessory can actually do graphically, it becomes clear that it's actually a clever way to ensure your favorite Ninty adventures don't look horrible on larger 澳洲幸运5开奖号码历史查询:gaming TVs and high-spec monitors.

There are two main features at work when you connect the mClassic to your Switch. The first is a relatively standard upscaler that can ramp things up to 1440p if you use a compatible screen. As a main rule of thumb, I always try to avoid giving my TV big upscaling tasks, and this HDMI dongle is far more efficient in scaling lower resolutions than your big screenꦐ. 

The second is more interesting, as the mClassic uses an anti-aliasing algorithm to smooth Switch jaggies and weird effects with post-processing. It's important to note that it doesn't just make Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom look like it was made in Unreal Engine 5, but it does do a number on any unsightly edges and textures associated with the 2017 handheld. There's also a switch at the side you can toggle to apply the same processing to 澳洲幸运5开奖号码历史查询:retro console visuals while maintaining an old-school 4:3 aspect ratio, but it does 🍨admittedly remo🌠ve the pixelated charm from 8 and 16-bit systems.

The main question you'll likely be asking yourself is whether these enhancements are worth $80, and it's worth considering before clicking buy. Personally, I can't play the Switch in TV✤ mode anymore on anything larger than a 32-inch screen without the mClassic, a🧸s my eyes instantly pick up on jagged edges and aliasing. All I'll say that is if you're never done wondering when the Nintendo Switch 2 is actually going to arrive, I'd try this gadget out as a short-term remedy.

Looking for more savings? Take a look at 澳洲幸运5开奖号码历史查询:Prime Day TV deals and 澳洲幸运5开奖号码历史查询:Prime Day monitor deals for excellent display discounts. Alternatively, swing by 澳洲幸运5开奖号码历史查询:Prime Day Steam Deck deals for a bunch of portable PC price cuts.

While Game Pass cloud streaming was already available on the likes of PC, Android, iPhone,💫 and certain Samsung smart TVs, in a on Xbox Wire, Ashley McKissick, corporate vice president of Xbox experiences and platforms engineering, says the Fire Stick compatibility will offer a "great low-cost, convenient, and portable option to enjoy a huge library of🌠 incredible games." 

"Xbox Gaming Coming to Amazon Fire TV: Play More Games, No Console Needed," the post begins. If you don't have a compatible Samsung Smart TV, this is definitely going to be a solid alternative if you want to load u🦋p your games on a TV screen without actually owning an Xbox.

As far as affordability is concerned, it's been confirmed that the app will be av💎ailable on the 2023 Fire TV Stick 4K Max and Fire TV Stick 4K, which cost $59.99 and $49.99 dollars, respectively. You'll also need an Xbox Game Pass Ultimate subscription (unless you just want to play Fortnite, which can be streamed without one), as well as a Bluetooth-enabled wireless controller to, y'know, actually play the games, which will add to the cost, too. All in all though, when 💯compared to the price of buying a whole new console, it's definitely cheaper.

The portability also sounds like it could be a major selling point. Since you can just plug your Fire TV Stick into whatever TV you want, you can easily switch devices within your own home, take it over to a friend's, or even on vacation without having to carry a bulky console around, while maiꦚntaining access to your games. 

"Over the past several years, we have been on a journey to deliver cloud gaming tꦕo more devices and to more people around the globe," McKissick writes in the news post. "We are excited to add Fire TV to our growing fami🧸ly of cloud gaming devices and eager to welcome new players into this experience."

An additional from Amazon confirms that Fire TV Stick compa🍬tibility will be rolled out at some point in July, so there's not too long to wait. Being tied to Game Pass, and specifically the cloud gaming section of it, the games available will fluctuate, but given the access to major releases li💮ke Starfield and Fallout 4, there should be plenty to play. 

Be sure to check out our roundup of the 25 best games on Game Pass for Xbox and PC.

If you wander over to Amazon right now, you’ll find the Baseus Blade 2 Power Bank down . You’ll want to use the 5% off coupon on the page t⛄o snag that discount, as it brings the portab🧜le charger down to a new record low just in time for Memorial Day. Usually, you’ll see this accessory drop to just under $80, but the extra voucher makes all the difference this time around.

While I personally keep this Power Bank in my bag alongside other 澳洲幸运5开奖号码历史查询:Steam Deck accessories, the fact it boasts 20,000mAh capacity and 100W capabilities means this offer doubles as a 澳洲幸运5开奖号码历史查询:Memorial Day laptop deal. Just like the 澳洲幸运5开奖号码历史查询:best gaming handhelds, many mobile rigs boast a USB-C 𝔉port with Power Delivery abilities, enabling you to ꧃give your machine’s battery a boost without using its main adapter. 

Should you buy the Baseus Blade 2 Power Bank? 

Power banks come in a variety of shapes and sizes, and the Baseus Bladᩚᩚᩚᩚᩚᩚ⁤⁤⁤⁤ᩚ⁤⁤⁤⁤ᩚ⁤⁤⁤⁤ᩚ𒀱ᩚᩚᩚe 2 is chonkier than some of its rivals. That’s largely thanks to its awesome 20,000mAh abilities and beefy 100W charging, and I’d argue it’s flat enough to comfortably fit inside a backpack. 

That said, If you’re aiming for something compact enough to accompany your Steam Deck on a semi-permanent basis, you’ll want to consider something like the 澳洲幸运5开奖号码历史查询:Jsaux 20000mAh 65w power bank. It trades wattage for a smaller narrower footprint, making it ideal for attaching to the back of handhelds. Just keep in mind that you’ll have to contend with slower charging and lꩲess wiggle room for connecting additional d♚evices, which could matter during long trips away from power outlets.  

Looking for more seasonal offers? We’ve got you covered with 澳洲幸运5开奖号码历史查询:Memorial Day Switch deals and 澳洲幸运5开奖号码历史查询:Memorial Day PS5 deals. If you’ve got big screens on your mind, swing by our 澳洲幸运5开奖号码历史查询:Memorial Day TV sales round-up for our top picks this year.

If you've just picked up Valve's 澳洲幸运5开奖号码历史查询:gaming handheld, I have a best Steam Deck accessories shortlist that covers the essentials. Some add-ons are admittedly a tad boring, like the screen protectors Jsaux screen protectors I've got on my 澳洲幸运5开奖号码历史查询:Steam Deck OLED, but gadgets like a Steam Deck dock will effectiv🍒ely tu♏rn the mini PC into a hybrid machine.

I want to stress that whil𒆙e I'm using the word "Steam Deck accessories" here, some of the add-ons on my shortlist will work with other handhelds. If you've got a rival like the Asus ROG Ally, you'll find that most docking stations out there are compatible, and the only extras that aren't suitable are those specially made the Valve's formfactor. So, let's dive in and help you fill your tech bag with handy goodies and gadgets.

The Quick List

The best Steam Deck case

Yes, we know, the Steam Deck c🎀omes with an exceptional case. However, the Jsaux ModCase adds modular superpowers that will make using add-ons like power banks much easier. Plus, it'll take up less room in your backpack while offering up a layer of fꩵront armor.

Design: By blending a formfitting hard plastic shell with a rubber back, Jsaux has enabled the ModCase to provide maximum protection without the bulk. Rather than having to mess with zips, you'll𝓀 be able to lift the front shield away from the case for quick access to the handheld, while the back section will🎀 remain in tact to boost ergonomics.

Features: As we've already spoiled, the main draw of this case is its modular rubber strap, which is designed to cling onto small accessories that you might use during play. For example, if๊ you're planning on playing a game that will slurp a lot of battery, you can strap in a power bank and make it feel like a part of the handheld. There are naturally limits in terms of weight, but for the most part, add-ons will stay put on back without a fuss.

Performance: I've used the ModCase for an extended period in various environments, and it has reliably protected my Steam Deck from all sorts. The front plastic shell in particular has saved the handheld from aꦉ bunch of mishaps, from things dropping near the device to even cats getting too curious for their own good (cat claws are the devil when it comes to screens.)

Verdict: If you do need a case for your Deck that'll also provides a way to use other add-ons𒅌, the Jsuax ModCase is one of the first we'd recommend. It's perhaps not the most attractive option out there, but that's nothing that can't be remedied with a few stickers and personal touches. Depending on how careful you are with your devices, aesthetics might not matter when it comes to saving pricey portables from the perils of use.

Read more: 澳洲幸运5开奖号码历史查询:Jsaux ModCase review

The best Steam Deck screen protector

Look, we get it, screen protectors aren't remotely exciting. What we will say is that not having scratches all🔯 over your Steam Deck screen is nice, and the only real way to prevent any blemishes ever appearing is to use something like Jsaux's tempered glass kit.

Design: Made of tempered glass that'♈s only 0.33mm thick, these Jsaux screen protectors are pretty unintꦛrusive. In fact, they pretty much drop straight into the Steam Deck's bezel space without protruding, which helps them feel like a natural part of the handheld. If you've ever tried to fit a generic option to something like the Nintendo Switch or your phone, you'll know the pain of getting things align properly without bubbles, and that's not something we experienced using this kit.

Features: With a 9H hardness rating and 99.99% tra🔯nsparency, Jsaux's screen protectors will resist any ♚scratches thrown at them while being almost invisible. As for fitting, the pack comes with a handy guiding frame that will ensure the protector is properly attached, which is perhaps why we were able to fit one to the Steam Deck without a hitch.

Performance: To see whether a Jsaux screen protector can actually live up to the company's claims, I decided to virtually attack our sample with a variety of sharp tools. That's not to say anyone would ever come at your handheld with a kitchen knife, but if they did, 🐼you caꦗn rest assured that the protector will shake off any damage with no marks. I even accidentally dropped my Deck during testing onto its face, and the tempered glass seemingly had my back.

Verdict: There are tons of different screen protector options out there, but we can attest to the fact th💧at Jsaux's kit will provide more than enough protection. A pack of two also costs less than a cup of coffee, meaning you won't have to pay an upsetting amount for vital coverage.

Read more: 澳洲幸运5开奖号码历史查询:Jsuax Screen♏ Protector for Steam Deck review

The best Steam Deck dock

We've tested a bunch of the 澳洲幸运5开奖号码历史查询:best Steam Deck dock contenders, and the Baseus 6-in-1 punches harder than it's competition. Not only will it easily hold your Deck with a case attached thanks to its a🍰djustable cradle, but it also comes with a good selection of ports for hooking up to both desktop and living room setups.

Design: Rather than sticking with a cradle specifically for the Deck, the Baseus 6-in-1 uses an almost deck-chair design that can be set at various angles and widths. This effectively means you won't have to remove cases and shells when parking the portable, but also means chonkier handhelds like the 澳洲幸运5开奖号码历史查询:Ayaneo 2S or even the likes of the 澳洲幸运5开奖号码历史查询:Asus ROG Ally and the massive 澳洲幸运5开奖号码历史查询:Lenovo Legion GO.

The rest of the dock is relatively standard, with most ports sit🧔uated round the back of the device. As for built quality, Baseus has gone with a mix of durable plastic and rubber, and while you'd think that would feel less premium than aluminium, it somehow manages to feel more robust than other metal-clad alternatives out there.

Features: We've already touched on one of the Baseus 6-in-1's biggest features, as its adjustable cradle incorporates functionality into its design. The rest of its traits relate to its port specs, with HDMI 2.0 providing a way to easily connect the Steam Deck to a TV or even a gaming monitor. You'll also be able to make sure of three USB-A ports and Gigabit ethernet, enabling you to use Valve's handheld at a 澳洲幸运5开奖号码历史查询:gaming desk with a bunch of peripherals.

Performance: Just like all docking stations, the Baesus 6-in-1 won't boost the Steam Deck's performance. However, it does provide the handheld with a ♋reliable way to connect to external screens, 𒉰keep everything powered with 100W power delivery, and provide the portable with a steady perch. We've yet to encounter any glitches or connectivity hiccups when using this dock, and hooking up to USB-C has held up as a seamless experience.

Verdict: Out of all the docking stations out there for Steam Deck, the Baesus 6-in-1 feels like the most well-rounded option. There are cheaper a🦹dd-ons that'll provide a similar experience, but that 🦄adjustable cradle and its exceptional built quality help this one clinch the top spot.

Read more: 澳洲幸运5开奖号码历史查询:Baseus🎉 6-in-1 Steam Deck dock review

The best Steam Deck power bank

There's no shortage of power banks on the market, but it's clear that the Jsaux 20000mAh 65w was created with handhelds like the Steam Deck in mind. Not only will it provide more than enough juice to keep your portable charged for an extended period, but it'll even fit onto cases like the ModCase for maximum com⛦patibility.

Design: Unlike some 20,000mAh options, Jsaux's 65W power bank is pretty slimline. That means it'll fit into your back🧔pack with no issues, but also provides you with the option of using something like the company's own ModCase to attach it to the back of the Steam Deck. Doing so will minimise the amount of peripherals you have lying around on your travels, whi🅰ch is incredibly handy if you're on a plane and only have one of those little tables.

Features: One the front, the Jsaux's bank has a tiny screen th🀅at disp♕lays vital information like charge time, capacity and voltage. A handy extra for those of you who get nerdy about stats, but it'll also help you work out what you can realistically keep powered up on the go. It's also got a built-in USB-C cable, and while we'd rather it was removable, it will save you from misplacing your own and not being able to charge up your Deck.

Performance: When it comes to longevity, the Jsaux's 65W Power Bank performs admirably. We managed to squeeze three full charges out of the unit's cells before needing to recharge, a꧑nd it can even keep portable monitors like the Jsaux FlipGo running for around two hours with the Steam Deck connected. Not too shabby for a portable charger you can fit in your pocket.

Verdict: Admittedly, there are power banks out there that boast a greater capacity and wattage,. But, when it comes to Ste🥀am Deck, this Jsaux option strikes a better balance between specs and portability.

Read more: 澳洲幸运5开奖号码历史查询:Jsaux 20000mAh 65w review

The best Steam Deck controller

Not everyone in the GamesRadar+ hardware team vibes with what the Asus ROG Raikiri Pro has to offer as a 澳洲幸运5开奖号码历史查询:PC controller. However, the fact it wields 2.4Ghz and Bluetooth while also offering up pro controll𒐪er features and a great aesthetic makes it a strong option for Steam Deck setups.

Design: The Raikiri Pro is♍ pretty striking, with a two-tone black and translucent shell helping distract from its fairly typical Xbox-shape. Of course, the visual heavy lifting is mostly carried out by its tiny OLED screen at the top, which serves as a way to display fun gifs and switch from 2.4Ghz to Bluetooth on the fly among other functions.

As for ergonomics, the pad feels pretty similar to an Xbox controller in the hands. Your milage may vary based on your preferences and the size of your mitts, but the controller offers up comfortable access to its face buttons, sticks, and tri💜ggers. The additional back buttons are a tad small compared to some options out there, so keep that in mind if you rely on extra inputs.

Features: Once again, we've spoiled some of the core perks of this controller when chatting design. But, there are a couple of pro controller extras, like trigger locks that can be further customised with Asus' Armoury Crate software. You'll also be able toไ set pꦰrofiles that can be accessed using the aforementioned OLED screen, which might be handy if you need a different setup when using the Steam Deck.

Performance: In testing specifically with the Steam Deck, the Raikiri Pro's 48 hour batter promises held up. The controller is also able to reliably jump back and forth from using Bluetooth to 2.4Ghz wireless without any fuss, which is extremely handy if you want to either share the pad b🧸etween devices. Connectivity also remained strong over both wireless methods, whereas Bluetooth stab🗹ility can be shaky when using alternatives like the official Xbox Wireless controller.

Verdict: It's needless to say that the Raikiri Pro is far from perfect, but when it comes to providing the Steam Deck with connectivity options and comfortable external controls, this pad gets a lot right.

Read more: 澳洲幸运5开奖号码历史查询:Asus ROG Raikiri Pro review

The best Steam Deck charger

The Steam Deck may come with a charger, but the A💦cefast Power Station Z4 will charge the handheld and all its accessories without breaking a sweat. The 218W GaN hub has more than enough oomph to deal with the portable PC and fast charge three other devices, saving you from dealing with a mess of cables when charging everything up.

Features: Thanks to the power of GaN (Gallium Nitrate) technology, the Acefast Power Station Z4 takes up minimal space on your desk while delivering exceptional power to all of your devices, including the Steam Deck. It can satiate the portable's 45W requirements and still have plenty of capacity to charge anot💃her handheld and any accessory you can throw at it, and you can select from various power modes to deliver specific power to each.

Design: While the Z4 is desig🎉ned to be discrete, it's also pretty attractive to look at thanks to its tiny TFT color screen and transparent front plate. The overall aesthetic is subtle yet stylis♛h, maintaining understated flare while ensuring it doesn't dominate your space. Despite its size, it also has enough heft to keep itself from skating across your desk when you move cables, something that helps it achieve a premium vibe that matches it price tag.

Performance: We've tested the Z4 using the Steam Deck OLED, other handhelds like the 澳洲幸运5开奖号码历史查询:Ayaneo Flip DS, and various accessories like earbuds. The result? The hub charged everything we 🍌c🐻ould throw at it while embracing fast charging where available. Being able to switch specific ports to output 100W means it'll also supply juice to gaming laptops with Power Delivery ports, meaning it'll effectively work with any device with USB-C ports.

Verdict: The Power Station Z4 is admittedly pricey, and the fact it doesn't at least supply a few cables is a bummer. That said, it's also an incredibly versatile charger fo🎶r the Steam Deck and any other gadget you may have to hand, providing a clutter free exper♓ience even with four devices hooked up at once.

Read more: 澳洲幸运5开奖号码历史查询:Acefast Power Station Z4 review

The best Steam Deck headset

The Razer Barracuda X isn't just for the Steam Deck, but that's exactly what makes it one of the 澳洲幸运5开奖号码历史查询:best gaming headsets for the handheld. By providing both wired and wireless options, this pair of cans provides morꦍe value and will enable you to use it with the por🌺table both on the go and at home.

Design: Unlike some gaming PC headsets out there, the Razer Barracuda X looks far less like a peripheral and more like fashionable tech. That's something that'll make all the difference if you want to use them when on a train or within view of the public, as no one want to look like John Madden just so theꩲy can hear their games. In terms of comfort, lightweight plastic and breathable memory foam cushioning will prevent the Barracuda from weighing down your noggin, and all the buttons and ports are easily accessible from the left hand cup.

Features: The Barracuda X is a jack of all trades, dishing out 2.4Ghz, Bluetooth, and wired connectivity. All three will benefit Steam Deck users, as the included dongle can hook up to your docking station while Bluetooth and 3.5mm jack options accompany you outside. Being able to do all three also means this headset will work with virtually any system, whether you're looking for Nintendo Switch accessories or an audio upgrade 🌜for PS5 and Xbox Series X.

Performance: In terms of fidelity, the Barracuda X provides a rich, well-balanced profile with equal atteꩵntion to mids, bass, and treble. All three combine to produce a surprisingly sophisticated sound signature, resulting in one of the best audio solutions we've tested for under $100. Battery life also holds up pretty well too, with a 50+ hour runtime helping cut the cord for longer while you galivant with the Steam Deck in hand.

Verdict: There are plenty of 澳洲幸运5开奖号码历史查询:best Steam Deck headset contenders to consider out there, but t꧋he Razer Barracuda X is the one we'd reach for if heading 🔴out for the day with Valve's handheld. Keep in mind if you opt for this set of cans, you'll effectively have headphones you can use across every platform at home and in your backpack.

Read more: 澳洲幸运5开奖号码历史查询:Razer Barracuda X (2022) review

The best Steam Deck keyboard

You don't have to pair the Steam Deck with a smaller keyboard, but options like the Cherry MX-LP 2.1 are endlessly portable. You won't even have to worry about compromises as this mechanical keeb packs the company's MX Low Profile switches into a 65% package alongside a hearty selection of connectivity o𝔍ptions.

Design: As far as 65% options go, the Cherry MX-LP 2.1 is one of the 澳洲幸运5开奖号码历史查询:best gaming keyboards when ♊it comes to looks. That's largely thanks to🌸 its vivid choice of cap colors, with orange accents contributing to a vibe that feels very Valve Orange Box-chic. aesthetics aside, it's also super light, weighing in at just 423g thanks to its choice of layout.

Features: Armed with Cherry Low Profil🉐e Speed switches, the MX-LP 2.1 will provide a swift and accurate typing experience. The keyboard maker's choice of ABS caps this time are also super smooth and soft, even though we'd have preferred PBT keycaps at this price point. As for connectivity, you won't remotely be stuck for options, with 2.4Ghz, Bluetooth, and USB-C all providing a way to hook up dire🧜ctly to the Steam Deck and docking stations.

Performance: Despite featuring a lower profile and reduced footprint, the MX-LP 2.1 provides a fluid typing experienc🦩e. Each cap provides a nice level of resistance and avoids any key wobble or reverb. Cherry's soft keycap and switch combo also makes for a smooth experience in games, with frantic adventures like Alan Wake and more complex outings like Elder Scrolls Online holding up great. Naturally, it'll also provide reliable results when tapping away in SteamOS' Desktop Mode, which is vital when it comes to the handheld's hybrid capabilities.

Verdict: If you're looking for a keeb that takes up as little room as possible at your Steam De⛄ck setup without caveats, the Cherry MX-LP 2.1 has your back. There are natural compromises tied to it being 65%, but you cou🅺ld argue full blown layouts are just as much of a hindrance when it comes to using them with a handheld.

Read more: 澳洲幸运5开奖号码历史查询:Cherry MX-LP 2.1 review

The best Steam Deck mouse

Look, the Razer Orochi V2 is absolutely going to lose a fight with most of the 澳洲幸运5开奖号码历史查询:best gaming mouse options out there. That is until it comes to on the go performance, as t🌌his clicker pulls a ꧂fantastic portable punch for well under $100 / £100.

Design: The Orochi V2's asymmetrical body is pretty minimalist for a Razer peripheral, and that could be a good thing if you're fed up of RGB shenanigans and aggressive gamer gear angles. There's an argument to be made about whether sticking with a basic design will ꧙hinder ergonomics, b𒀰ut if you simply need a clicker for your Steam Deck, that might not be so much of an issue.

Features: Kitted out with both Bluetooth and HyperSpeed 2.4GHz, you'll have options when connecting to the Steam Deck or its matching docking station. Sadly, the mouse does ditch having a wired fallback, but that's largely because it uses a single AA battery for power. That itself is both a feature🍨 and a drawback depending on your preferences, but Razer does claim that a single cell will keep the peripheral active for a whopping 950 hours.

Performance: At a glance, it might feel like the Orochi V2 is a basic mouse, but it actually has more gaming guts that its exterior would suggest. Not only does it make use of Razer's second gen mechanical switches, it also has a Razer 5G sensor with 18,000 DPI capabilities. Sure, most of you will simply be looking for a clicker to navigate SteamOS in desktop mode with when the need arises. But, if you do feel like play💞ing some faster faced FPS games on the Deck, this mouse will provide someꦆ slick performance.

Verdict: For tꦛhe money, the Orochi V2 is a strong Steam Deck mouse option for using on the go, and it might even be enough t🌊o satiate your gaming PC needs. Just keep in mind that if you hate replacing batteries, you'll end up wanting to call pest control on this rodent.

Read more: 澳洲幸运5开奖号码历史查询:Razer Orochi V2 review

The best Steam Deck SSD

Not everyone will be brave enough to swap out their Steam Deck SSD, but those who are should probably grab the WD Black SN770M. The storage giant has effectively shrunk the same tech within its 澳洲幸运5开奖号码历史查询:gaming SSD range into something that'll fit insiꦐde the handheld, and you'll have a five year warranty to fall back on if things go wrong doꦑwn the road.

Design: Those of you unfamiliar with M.2 SSD formats might not be aware that they come in a variety of sizes. While the drive within your gaming PC might be almost as long as a stick of RAM, the one inside the Steam Deck is smaller than a CPU. The key is to look for '2230' drives rather than a conventional '2280' version, with the WD Black SN770M serving as an example of the former.

The only real difference b🦩etween the WD Black SN770M and the drive within your Deck is that Valve includes a small pie✅ce of shielding with its SSD. You'll have to remove and reapply this to the SN770M if you do go through with a swap, and while it'd be handy if the new drive came with it already applied, it's easy to see why it doesn't since it's compatible with a variety of handhelds.

Features: The SN770M is actually a Gen 4 drive, meaning it can achieve faster speeds than the one within your Deck. Not that yoꦏu'll feel the benefits, as Valve's handheld will still max out at gen 3 standards. Still, you're getting a drive that is somewhat futureproofe💜d, which could matter if you decide to pick up a Steam Deck 2 when it inevitably arrives.

Performance: In our tests, the SN770M produced read speeds of 3,400.47 MB/s, coming in ever so slightly faster than the OG Micron drive within the Steam Deck OLED. Effectively, this means you'll be able to upgrade your handheld with up 🌳to 2TB storage and not lose any performance in the process. Pretty worthwhile since chonky RPGs like Baldur's Gate 3 take up to 122GB on its own. Yikes.

Verdict: We might end up favܫouring a different option in the future, but for now the WD Black SN770M is out go to SSD replacement for Steam Deck. The whole process of upgrading the handheld's drive isn't exactly straight forward, so we'd absolutely recommend doing your homework before reaching for a screwdriver. It's also worth mentioning that upcoming rivals like the ROG Ally X and MSI Claw 8 AI+ will use a full size 2280 drive, so it might not be so useful if you decide to switch allegiances.

Read more: 澳洲幸运5开奖号码历史查询:WD Black SN770M review

The best Steam Deck microSD card

Picking up a SanDisk Ultra 1.5TB microSD card is going to gꦫive you heaps more storage without much effort. Just a year or two ago, seeing a tiny card with this sort of capacity at retailers would have sounded a few scam alarm bells, but we're now at a stage where SSD-sized options are♕ becoming a norm.

Design: On the face of things, this Sandisk Ultra microSD card looks like, well, a microSD card. You're effectively getting wha𝓀t'd be a capacity we'd expect from an SSD in something the size of your thumbnail, and the Steam Deck will happily make use of its space using its bottom card slot.

Features: Western Digital claims its Sandisk Ultra microSD cards are "fastest in the world," thanks to their 150MB/s capabilities. In practice, using one of these cards with the Steam Deck results in respectable load times that aren't that far off the handheld's own built-in storage. Your mileage could vary depending on the game, but the average user isn't going to notice a difference, all while holdin🐼g potentially more than your specific model can.

Performance: During typical use, we didn't spot any shenanigans from Sandisk's Ul🤪tra microSD card. We've used a variety of capacities across a multitude of devices, and each variant always stands up as a reliable and fast method of storing games and apps. Some cards in our collection have been valiantly holding our libraries for a few years, and the 1.5TB version should serve as great Steam Deck storage for the long-haul.

Verdict: If you really can't stomach switching out the Deck's internal SSD, but need more than the 1TB included with the top Steam Deck OLED model, picking up the SanDisk Ultra 1.5TB is a no-brainer. Just keep in mind that you could potentially pick up several smaller cards for the price this one co🔥sts, and that's a valid option.

What Steam Deck add-ons should you buy first?

So, you've just picked up a shiny new Steam Deck, and Valve even threw in a case for good measure. At this stage, you might be wondering what accessories you should buy first, as it's sometimes hard to separate priority add-ons from nice to have extras. There are a few core pieces w♏e'd suggest investing in first, as they'll both protect your gaming gadget and enhance your experience.

Screen protectors: They're far from the most exciting Steam Deck accessory out there, but using a screen protector from day one will ensure your handheld screen stays fresh. Even if you only use the portable PC at home, it's easier than you'd think to accidentally scratch the glass on Valve's device, which in turn could disrupt your gaming sessions and cramp its style.
Docking stations: Picking up a Steam Deck dock really enhances the handheld's versatility, providing it with similar functionality to hybrids like the Nintendo Switch. While the main reason to pick one up is easy video output via HDMI and extra ports for peripherals, docks also make for a nice place to rest your portable during charging.
MicroSD cards: Not everyone will run out of Steam Deck storage immediately, but picking up a microSD will save you from the horrors of storage woes. Even if you'd rather upgrade your handheld's internal SSD, having an external card handy will help you expand things even further, in turn enabling to to take more of your Steam backlog with you.
Power banks: Like it or not, handhelds simply aren't at the stage where they can run for more than a few hours. If you're planning on playing new rele🔯ases, or even just want a journey's worth of play, you'll want to pick up a power bank. Not only will it keep your handheld charged when away from outlets, but options with more than 45W Power Delivery will also keep any connected🔯 add-ons powered too, including portable monitors.

FAQ

Will Steam Deck accessories work with the Switch 2

As is the case with most other handhelds, there will be plenty of Steam Deck accessories that work with Switch 2. Naturally, form fitting add-ons like cases, screen protectors, and things that are specifically 💧made for the shape of Valve's portable aren't going to be much use. But, when it comes to docking st🦂ations that use the same USB-C output, headsets, and USB peripherals, you'll probably be able to use them with Ninty's console

There are a few exceptions and caveats, and the Switch 2 sometimes makes using standard accessories a little awkward. For starters, the newly added top USB-C port on Ninty's handheld is for data transfer only, so you won't be able to use Steam Deck docks in exactly the same manner. Nintendo also made the decision to use a new microSD🌜 Express format of memory for game installations, so even if you've got a speedy card for your handheld PC, it can only be used for screenshots.

I'll be testing a variety of Steam Deck accessories with the Switch 2 at launch, so all your burning questions will have a definitive answer soon. I'd wait till the handheld has officially arrived to buy any add-ons in any case, but if you do have something specific in mind, feel free to 🌳reach out below using the comment section.

Looking for more handheld add-ons? Swing by the 澳洲幸运5开奖号码历史查询:best Nintendo Switch accessories and 澳洲幸运5开奖号码历史查询:best Switch cases for Ninty flavored options. Alternatively, take a peek at the 澳洲幸运5开奖号码历史查询:best portable monitors for gaming if you need an on-the-go screen.

Admittedly, cheap reels of LEDs are to blame for my RGB lighting aversion. It’s perhaps ꦛa craze that’s now dying off but, for a while, many game rooms you’d see online featured a garish border of lighting tape with zero diffusion. I can’t even escape from it when staying at my partner’s house, as the kid across the street has a piercing perimeter of lights that haunt my peripheral vision. However, I just about managed to drop my experience-based bias to check out a set of Nanoleaf Lines, and guess what? Turns out I do enjoy RGB lighting after all.

Coming at a staggering $169.99 / £179.99 for a set of nin🍌e Nanoleaf strips and their accompanying connectors, this RGB kit is definitely on the pricey side. That MSRP makes it easier to understand why someone would choose to pick up a cheap reel of LEDs instead, especially if you’re not fussed about smart capabilities or easily designing patterns🏅. Nevertheless, I’d still highly recommend this kit to anyone looking to invest in a gaming space glow-up, as you won’t find many options that can provide the same burst of color for less.

Assembly and setup

Before cracking open your own Nanoleaf Lines kit, I’d recommend clearing a bunch of floor space. Clicking together the set is fairly intuitive, but it’ll effectively feel like you’re laying out a Scalextric track, with each piece stemming from a core hexagon wi🦹th all the main guts inside. 

Upon opening Nanoleaf’s compact package, I was immediately greeted with an array of lines, which lift out to reveal a bunch of hexagonal connectors and a power brick underneath. There’s also a sheet on top with a QR code to instructions. The minimalist cardboard rectangle does at least provide some layout inspiratioඣn, in turn demoing the core concept the company is going for.

In case it’s not apparent, Nanoleaf Lines are designed to accommodate custom vector patterns, and there are countless ways to put the kit together. If you download the app before assembly, you’ll be able to use it to visualize your design beforehand, 𓄧something that’ll ensure you’ve got everything clicked together in the right order. That said, nothing is stopping you from free balling the whole affair, as it’s not easy to mess things up if you ensure the core hex module is connected.

For this review, I went with one of Nanoleaf’s recommended layouts, if🌸 for no other reason than the fact it looks a bit like Pac-Man. I started by clicking two starting lines into my core hexagon, which features buttons on its face and a tail that connects to the power supply. From there, I played a game of dot-to-dot until I had some sort of constellation before finally locking everything in with plastic covers that keep the strips in plꦿace. 

Just like that, I had something that looked like Nanoleaf’s own suggestion, and the whole process was virtually painless. Before moving onto setup and sticking it onto your wall of choice, I’d advise plugging the power supply in to make sure there are no faults with the product or the way you’ve put it together. If you get a white glow, you’ll be good to charge on, so long as the design is actually what you wanted in the firs♐t place.

It’s up to you whether you’d prefer to set up the Nanoleaf app or fit the kit onto your wall first. I d🥂ecided to make sure I could get the digital side all working first, just 𝔉in case there was a non-physical issue that would later put a big spanner in the works. Thankfully, that didn’t happen, and I was satisfied with how simple the smart side of things was to set up.

The process kicks off with downloading the Nanoleaf app from either Google Play or the Apple App Store. I used an Android gaming phone to do the former, so your experience may differ if you’re using a fruity device. The simplest way to link it up to y🐬our Lines kit is to use the QR code located on the power supply connector, which you’ll come across when connecting the brick to the core hexagon mentioned previously. 

Doing so prompts a setup wizard that’s easy to follow and presents no quirks during setup. As someone ꦗwho’s wrestled with many cheap smart devices and their apps, this was a fabulous revelation, and everything ended up being alive and kicking within minutes. You will need to switch from your Wi-Fi connection to the one built into the Nanoleaf Lines kit at one stage in the process, and I know that can cause some issues from experience depending on the phone. Yet, I got off scot-free 🍎this time, so thank the tech gods for that.

At this stage, I’d say it’s safe to finally pop your Nanoleaf Lines design onto a wall. For this, you’ll ♑want to pick a smooth, clean surface, as each hexagon uses a 3M-style adhesive pad. If you wan♑t to get things perfect, I’d also recommend using a small spirit level, as the last thing you want is a squinty set of lights taunting you from above your monitor. 

The back of each hexagon actually spins, and I think this i💃s a simple but ingenious solution when it comes to mounting. You’ll effectively be able to stick the first tab down and pivot things into place, meaning there’s less chance of accidentally sticking it down out of alignment. The approach will vary depending on your design choice, but that meant working from the top down in my case.

I’ve popped my Nanoleaf Lines kit onto a temporary wall for this review, as I’m planning on putting together a revamped setup shortly. However, I do have to comment that the adhesive used on each hexagon isn’t remotely renter-friendly, as carefully pulling one off took paint and plaster along for the ride. I would have preferred if the company provided ꦑalternative pads that are easier to detach, as while I respect the strength of this solution, it’s going to be a pain for anyone who likes to move things around.

Features

With my Nanoleaf faux Pac-Man now sitting pretty on the wall, I was ready to delve into the Lines kit’s many features. Some perks I’d consider par for the course, like being able to choose colors, patterns, and brightness levels. However, unlike most RGB strips out there, this set also has an app for your 澳洲幸运5开奖号码历史查询:gaming PC, which enables it to dynamically mirror the light𝔍ing on your screen.

RGB lights that react to your screen have been around for a while, but they normally come with caveats. For example, I’ve set up more than one Govee Envisual set for family members in the past, and that uses a camera to keep track of color changes on your gaming TV. I also recently commended the 澳洲幸运5开奖号码历史查询:Philips Evnia 42M2N8900 for its integrated Ambiglow system, and even though I think that approach is great, it requires picking up an expensive 澳洲幸运5开奖号码历史查询:gaming monitor. 

In addition to screen mirroring, the Lines kit can also react to sound like a music visualizer. I grew up mesmerized by the swirls and patterns displayed when using the OG PlayStation as a CD player, so it’s needless to say I was ecstatic about this feature. You won’t even have to hook it up to any𝔉 inputs or even your Spotify app, as it uses an integrated mic to listen to groovy beats and riffs. Of course, the kit comes with Google Home and Apple Homekit support for those of you who do like interconnectivity, providing your assist♈ant of choice with power over your setup. 

Performance 

I’ve tested various RGB-clad accessories in my time, and Nanoleaf’s LEDs blow everything out of the water. Using a backlit approach certainl🎉y helps curb my usual gripes, and using a whiteꦉ wall brings out the absolute best in the kit’s color capabilities. However, the spectrum on offer goes above and beyond to cover more pallets and shades than anything else I’ve used, with exceptional brightness that adds a lot of oomph to the overall package. 

The kit is also super responsive, with patterns coming acro𝓀ss as snappy and accurate. Even Nanoleaf’s reactive music and screen mirroring modes can keep up with ease, outperformiඣng systems with physical tracking hardware. The sensation of watching beams of light pierce through above me while running around in enclosed spaces in Horizon: Forbidden West’s intro is nothing short of beautiful, and I’m excited to see what these lights can do for all genres in terms of immersion.

Visual praise aside, Nanoleaf’s whole infrastructure feels nice and robust, with minimal shenanigans during general use. Every action used via the app kicked in almost immediately,🔜 and firmware updates flowed through without a hitch. I certainly wouldn’t expect anything less from a kit at this price point, but I’ve sadly had too many janky software experiences in my time to count stability as a given.

Should you buy a Nanoleaf Lines kit? 

It may cost a pretty penny but if you’re looking for stylish RGB lighting🐻, Nanoleaf’s Lines kit is worth every cent. For the money, you’re getting a system of exceptional quality that’꧃s bursting with customization options and features, not to mention the core backlight experience is next-level. 

I do think Nanoleaf should include some renter-friendly mounting options with its package for the price. Even if you own your home🌌, chances are you’ll want to move to switch things around at some point, as that’s the nature of gaming setups. Would I say this is a deal breaker? Hell no, but it’s important to plan ahead before splashing out on this fantastic RGB kit. 

How I tested the Nanoleaf Lines kit 

To put the above Nanoleaf Lines kit to the test, I mounted it above the desk I use for hardware reviews. This enabled me to check compatibility with my PC and smartphone while also assessing its visual performance as part of a typical setup. During the review, I used both the Windows and Android ap𒀰p to try out the lighting system’s smart features, and specifically played both Children of the Sun and Horizon: Forbidden West with screen mirroring switched on.

If you’d like to learn more about how we test accessories and peripherals, check out our GamesওRadar+ 💛hardware policy for a deeper dive.

Looking for more setup add-ons? Swing by our 澳洲幸运5开奖号码历史查询:best gear for streaming guide for peripheral recommendations. If you’re craving more RGB, you’ll also want to peek at our 澳洲幸运5开奖号码历史查询:best gaming keyboard and 澳洲幸运5开奖号码历史查询:best gaming mouse picks for colorful desktop accessories.  

At $189.99 / £189.98, the EON XBHD is pretty expensive, and it won’t work across all the 澳洲幸运5开奖号码历史查询:best retro consoles out there. Instead, it will solely add HDMI output to your OG Xbox alongside three Ethernet ports for LAN she🧸nanigans. I would argue that the fact it’s a bespoke device for a specific platform means it’ll cater even more to the needs of enthusiasts but unfortunately that’s not entirely the case, and I can’t help but feel this adapter would fare better with casual players if it came with an approachable price tag attached. 

With new consoles retaining backwards compatibility, I’m not so sure regular players are going to get too excited about this adapter. Sure, there are a whole bunch of sixth-generation games that won’t work on Microsoft’s fancy new rectangular prism, and there’s absolutely a degree of novelty to hooking🅠 up the real deal and soaking up all those nostalgic vibes. But, that on👍ly really flies if the price is friendly enough, so it’s hard not to focus on what XBHD provides enthusiasts with instead.

Specs

When it comes to XBHD specs, it’s all about the ports. The adapter wields not one, but two 🎃HDMI ports that will simultaneously stream lagless output in either 480i, 𒈔480p, 720p, and 1080i. Those resolutions are important, as not many games actually support either of the latter HD options natively. That effectively means you’ll be sending a standard definition signal through to your TV, which is still useful but won’t look anywhere near as crisp. 

In addition, the device also wears those three aforementioned ethernet ports and a 3.5mm jack, just in case you’ve got a separate gaming sound system. While it’s not remotely a deal breaker, it would♏ ha🦩ve been since EON considered adding DisplayPort to the back, as that way it’d provide some versatility when hooking up to a gaming monitor. Not a biggie, but in a cobbled together LAN scenario, there’s a chance one of the screens used will be an older screen without HDMI. 

Design

The physical XBHD adapter itself manages to strike an impressive balance between charm and practicality. The fact it looks like a dinky Xbox, complete with ridges and that chonky X on top, is enough to sell the design🧜 on its own, but its neat fit into the crevice round back of the console really drives home its pleasing formfactor. Better still, additional feet at the bottom ensure that the adapter isn’t hanginꩲg off of the video out and LAN ports, helping it feel like even more a part of the original hardware.

As for materials, the X🌌BHD is made almost entirely of plastic, but sadly not the same kind as the Xbox itself. That would have been a nice touch, not to mention it’d have helped the adapter feel as premium as its price tag. Don’t get me wrong, it𝔍 doesn’t feel offensively cheap, I just would rather it felt a little bit less hollow, even if that means adding heavier materials that don’t contribute to its overall functionality. 

Features

For the most part, the XBHD’s abilities are already covered in its hardware, with HDMI output and LAN connectivity being thꦆe main draw. I am slightly disappointed by this, as I would have loved it if the adapter had its own OSD menu system with settings and additional quirks like scanline options and other adjustments. I would have made peace with this omission if the device didn’t come in at $190, but since it does, I can’t help but compare it to other upscalers like the OSSC or even smaller mod projects that add this to other retro consoles.  

Performance

The XBHD provides a pretty clean digital signal using the Xbox component port, but visual fidelity is dependent on the game you’re playing. It’s also worth noting that, if you’re in the UK, you won’t be able to run an꧅y o൩f the console’s library at 720p without some sort of soft mod, as PAL region systems didn’t come with support. I’m from sunny Scotland, so to actually experience the adapter and GO Xbox’s full potential, I used an NTSC unit during testing. 

However, against all odds, two of my original Xbox consoles ended up with faults just in time for 👍me taking a few setup photos, so I've had to switch in my Crystal edition instead. Therefore, the images in this article shouldn't 🐭be used as an example of resolution capabilities, but instead a visual illustration of how the device works in practice. 

Diving first into Soul C🍰alibur 2, a bonafide classic that brought me many hours of joy back in the day, I found the 720p visuals displayed on my TV to be strikingly crispy. If you’d told me that I was actually swinging arou🌠nd Nightmare’s gnarly sword using an Xbox Series X and backwards compatibility, I would have believed you without question. Yet, the results are produced by a console that’s old enough to kick out the family home without guilt. 

Thoroughly impressed with the XBHD’s 720p abilities, I thought it’d be a neat idea to try out Doom 3 at standard resolution. After all, I own multiple ports of the putrid shooter sequel on newer hardware, so I had a pretty good idea of what to expect🐽. This, however, put a damper on my excitement during testing, as it revealed that the adapter has issues when it comes to brightness. 

The dank corridors of Doom 3 are admittedly pretty murky🎶, but I couldn’t actually see where I was going when wandering around darker areas. I actually ended u♕p fetching my component cable, just to check I wasn’t misremembering how hostile the darkness actually is, which highlighted that the XBHD’s output seems to lack luminosity. To lend the adapter a helping hand, I ultimately ended up playing around with my TV’s settings to bring back some of the lost detail, and that worked to a certain degree. However, it did make things slightly washed out for my liking, so I wouldn’t say it’s an ideal remedy.

If the XBHD didn’t come with that $189 pric꧅e tag, I’d cut it a bit more slack for its dark visuals. I would even go as far to say that unless you’re playing a game without brighter visuals, you might not even notice or care about the levels being off balance. But, Eon’s pricing means I have to demand premium performance, and the quirk will absolutely disrupt your experience while making your way through the original Xbox library. 

On a more positive note, the XBHD’s multi LAN functionality works exactly how you’d expect. As someone who used to run retro gaming events in a brewery, being able to whack in a single adapter and hook up multiple Xbox consoles for multiplayer is an absolute win, and could see myself using EON’s device if I ever got 🍌back into the business of providing nostalgia to a room of rowdy Halo fans.

Should you buy the EON XBHD? 

Recommending the EON XBHD to fans of the original Xbox is tricky, as both its price and visual caveats play against it. At face value, it’s a neat device that will easily let you pop an HDMI lead into a modern s▨creen without having to think about additional 𝓡upscalers and cable types. For many casual players, that fact may remain regardless of whether it loses detail in darker games, but that same group likely aren’t the type to be spending next to $190 on an adapter like this in the first place. 

I still think the XBHD is a pretꦛty great HDMI solution for Xbox, and those LAN ports do contribute to the re♍surrection of the lost art of local online multiplayer. That said, it’d need to gain additional software features and resolve its overly dark visuals before I’d be comfortable paying full price, and while it’s faults aren’t necessarily a deal breaker, it’d take a pretty attractive discount for me to suggest overlooking those shortcomings.

How I tested the EON XBHD 

For around a month, I used the EON XBHD to connect an original Xbox to my Sa𒐪msung TV. During that time, I used various games like Soul Calibur 2, Doom 3, Halo, and Knights of the Old republic to test output quality and resolution support. In addition, I tried the ad꧋apter with both PAL and NTSC consoles to check for any signs of incompatibility or quirks related to regional hardware.

If 🐠you’d like to delve deeper into how we test gaming accessories, swing by our GamesRadar+ hard💟ware policy for a closer look at our practices.

Looking for a modern way to play classic Xbox games? Check out the 澳洲幸运5开奖号码历史查询:best gaming handheld for devices that can run Game Pass. You might also want to swing by the 澳洲幸运5开奖号码历史查询:best xbox controllers and 澳洲幸运5开奖号码历史查询:best monitor for Xbox Series X if you're looking for modern Microsoft add-ons.

If it's advice on how to start 澳洲幸运5开奖号码历史查询:streaming for gamers you're after, it's worth noting we've already got you covered on that front. However, rather than simply round up the 澳洲幸运5开奖号码历史查询:best webcam options or 澳洲幸运5开奖号码历史查询:best capture cards overall, I'm going to instead delve into a bunch of PC accessories that I either already have to hand or think will help me keep making content throu🌃ghout 2024. Sure, some of you may benefit from just picking up everything I intend on using, but I reckon it'd be more helpful to use my plans as a typical template. That way, you'll be able to swap out specific accessories for something that fits in better with your genre and platform of choice.

It's worth noting that when it comes to gaming, I am firmly multiplatform. In fact, I actually ended up streaming a lot of retro games last time I gave Twitch a try, including some of my favorite horror romps on the PS2 and even old MSX computer games made by certain Hideo Kojima (really, Penguin Adventure absolutely slaps). Simply put, my setꦦup plans are pretty damn versatile, meaning it'll cater to a variety of different players out there while still offering up the basics. 

Okay, bear with me on this one, as I know the Elgato Facecam Pro is ludicrously expensive. However, it's what I'd personally like to start using for Twitch streaming in 2024, and it's largely because I want to actually start 🔯making🌱 YouTube content again too. 

The premium cam's incredible capabilities, wide angle lens, and comprehensive software will ultimately let me use one setup for everything I made, rather than having to switch from an ordinary webcam to my Sony camcorder depending on content types. In other words, this camera can provide professional DLSR levels of quality over USB-C, and that's an invaluable feat when it comes to trying to easily make high quality con𒉰tent. 

But fear not budget streamers, as I have a very reasonably priced alternative that will reli🍷ably offer basic capture capabilities, and it's the same webcam I used during my initial stint as a streamer. The cam in question is the Logitech C920x, and it'll furnish your setup with 1080p footage that honestly looks the part. I mean, if you're anything like me, you'll end up just having your face at the corner of your stream, and 4K really is overkill if you're simply wanting to prove you aren't three goblins in a trench coat. 

I've used a variety of USB mics in the past, but the 澳洲幸运5开奖号码历史查询:RODE X XCM-50 is a cut above the rest. I only recently swapped out my longstanding Blue Yeti microphone for this di🔯nky condenser option, and it instantly revamped by setup's recording capabilities with near studio levels of quality. That statement is bound to get a few eꦉye rolls from audiophiles and people who spend thousands on audio gear, but I think even the snootiest of streamers will commend this mic for its efforts. 

I could delve into the usual descriptors used to describe high quality mic audio, but it feels more appropriate to say that the RODE X XCM-50 simply sounds natural. I'd go as far to say that this microphone allows me to achieve the best sounding vocal capture I've ever been able to achieve effortlessly, and the fact there's no faff involved sweetens the deal. That's not to say you can't mess around with RODE's 'Unify&꧂apos; software, as it offers up pre-sets and manual fine tuning. You can even mix 🃏in multiple USB inputs using the software, which is something I may end up doing if my partner ever joins me for streaming sessions. 

Like many other desktop mics, the RODE X XCM-50 comes with a tripod, meaning you won't necessarily have to fork out for a mic arm. That said, I do prefer to keep the spa𝓀ce in front of me clear, so I normally keep it mounted just to the left of me to prevent any clumsy accidents. That and I've normally also got an old console plonked in front of me, and this condenser mic isn't too fussy about where I place it.

Look, I'm the last person who'd want to light up their daft face, but lighting is key if you want to achieve great visuals. I live in Scotland, and it's either grey or night time outside for 80% of the year, and even the most expensive webcams can't work mira✤cles in those conditions. Therefore, I'll be using the Streamplify Light 10 Ring Light that I already have to hand, as it'll keep things illuminated without making my face look like a big moon. 

As far as ring lights go, the Streamplify Light 10 doesn't break the mould, but it also isn't trying to. The brand's whole objective is to provide streamers with 🅺effective products at an approachable price point, and this option specifically costs way less than some of the best ring lights out there. It doesn't even ditch functionality to cut costs, as you'll be able to adjust brightness and temperature on the fly using an included remote.

The Streamplify Light 10 also has mounting points for your smartphone, and that's something I'm actively thinking of using. Not that I want to become one of those Tiktok famous folk, but I'm into the idea of making some vertical snippets while streaming and ma🃏king YouTube videos. Even if I end up never using it for that, I love that the option is there, as I'm all about product versatility. 

I've not picked up the Razer 澳洲幸运5开奖号码历史查询:BlackShark V2 Hyperspeed yet, but our resident headset expert Tabitha Baker says its one of the 澳洲幸运5开奖号码历史查询:best gaming headsets out there. We're talking about a lightweight, comfortable pair of cans that offers almost the same functionality as its 'Pro' sibling, but there&ap♌os;s a specific feature I rely on that🦂 the V2 Hyperspeed can effectively provide me while streaming.

For whatever reason, I really struggle with talking while wearing closed back headphones. If I can't hear myself, I end up struggling to either speak at the🥀 right volume or form sentences properly, which then knocks my confidence a bit. However, headsets like the BlackShark V2 can loopback the sound of your voice using sidetone options within its software, and it's something I now need if I'm planning to talk on a stream. 

At the moment, I'm using a Razer Kraken V3 Hypersense as my daily driver, but its sidetone abilities are sometimes hampered by forgetting to turn off built-in haptics. So, I'll likely pick up𒅌 the Blackshark V2 soon so that I have something specifically for streaming to hand. The fact it's also wireless is pretty appealing, as ♍I already have a lot of cables all over the place thanks to the retro gaming parts of my setup. 

Before I delve into why I'm eyeing up the 澳洲幸运5开奖号码历史查询:Elgato HD60 X, it's worth noting that t✤here are other far more affordable capture cards out there. I actually normally use the Elgato HD60, and it's perfectly serviceable when it comes to 1080p capture. If anything, my cravings for this upgrade are more based on the prospect of scaling retro consoles up to 4K in the future, and this device may help facilitate my future plans.

Of course, the Elꦚgato HD60 X is also going to help you get the most out of your PS5 or Xbox Series X when capturing footage, as you'll be able to feed 4K 60fps gameplay through to your PC. Whether or not you actually try to stream in that quality is a different matter, as you'll need a pretty decent broadband connection to avoid connection issues. Nevertheless, the idea of having the capturing the same quality footage as you'll see on your monitor or TV is nifty, and it'll help futureproof your setup regardless.

Before picking up the OSSC, I used to use a cheap upscaler from Amazon, and trying to stream via Twitch was a bit of a nightmare. From stre🥂tched aspect ratios to weird visual effects when playing some 2D sprite games, budget solutions prove to just be too unreliable when you're putting on a live show. 

Now that I've switched to using the Open Source Scan Converter, it's safe to say my old game footage has never looked better. Rather than simply upscaling old resolutions, the OSSC uses l𒅌ine doubling to increase pixel counts without lag. The end result is simply a higher resolution version of the retro console's original signal, which helps keep everything looking the way it should.

It's worth noting that if you're using old consoles like the Sega Genesis, Super Nintendo, or even the PS1, you'll need to invest in scart cables. This will enable you to feed an RGB signal to the OSSC, as it won't be able to interpret 𒈔anything sent via those old red, white, and yellow com♐posite cables that are commonly used. I'd say it's worth investing in new cables anyway, as you'll end up with a much sharper image compared to composite. 

Chances are that if you've got a gaming PC setup, you're potentially already got some accessories that'll fit the bill when it comes to streaming. In reality,๊ you don't have to buy the best of the best to get started, and sometimes it's best to start off small before investing. 

That said, if you're looking to entice yourself to get back into streaming on Twitch or YouTube and already know the ropes, upgrading some of your equipment could be the solution. W🤪hether you copy the approach I'm going for or select completely different options is down to your own preferences, and I'll be rooting for all of you buddin🍸g content creators out there in 2024.

Need a rig before you start streaming? Check out the 澳洲幸运5开奖号码历史查询:best gaming PC builds are a range of powerhouse machines. Alternatively, take a peek at the 澳洲幸运5开奖号码历史查询:best gaming laptops for systems you can take on the go.

A couple of years ago however, when chance came, I was browsing a local bookshop between Christmas and New Year. It was then that I stumbled upon the Official Tolkien Calendar for the f꧑irst time, which, in 2021, sported 13 stunning bits of artwork that celebrated The Unfinished Tales. Having just finished a full run-through of the LOTR audiobooks and The Silmarillion, I was easily ensnared by the cover image which showed the infamous Blue Wizards jaunting across a hilltop.

Since then, I've made buying this lovely tribute to Tolkien's works a yearly tradition. I take real joy every month from flipping the page and discovering a new illustration that beautifully captures a scene from my favorite author&ಞapos;s legendarium.

Whether it's for you or the nerdy loved one in your life, the great news about these calendars is that they come remarkably cheap. This year's calendar will only set you back $14/£10.99, which is way more affordable than most 澳洲幸运5开奖号码历史查询:gifts for gamers at this time of year.

These calendars always feature work from iconic artists within the Tolkien community. Ted Naismith and Ala♔n Lee provided concept art that Peter Jackson used to build his cinematic masterpieces, and the two have been pivotal figures in bringing these calendars to life each year. 

One of my personal favorite things about these almanacs is that they always feature a foreword that goes into detail about the specific book that a year's calendar is centered on. Reading this before I pin the thing up on the wall is such a wholesome way to kick off the year, and often goes hand-in-hand with a Christmas rewatch of🤪 the films.

In 2024, the calendar will contain 13 paintings that depict the legendary Fall of Numenor, otherwise known as the Akalabeth. For that reason, this is a particularly good year to grab one - with a new series of 澳洲幸运5开奖号码历史查询:The Rings of Power beckoning which is sure to show off this period of Arda's history, the official c💟alendar will be a great companion.

Whether or not the show tries 🅺to be accurate is another story, but either way, my point stands.

I suppose the main question for you buying one of these will be to do with the original problem I mentioned about physical calendars. Even if I don'⛦t use the Official Tolkien Calendar to map out my daily schedules, it is a beautiful way to frame each month of the year, and I'm a firm believer that you can never have too much nerdy wall art.

To be completely honest though, I think physical calendars do still have their uses. If you live with f♎latmates, or you and your family need a better way to communicate your movements, I think using a calendar like this can be very helpful. If you need the living room TV for a LOTR movie marathon one night, what better way is there to reserve the room than writing a friendly reminder on your communal calendar?

Long🍸 story short, I love the Official Tolkien Calendar. If you have some Christmas pocket money left over going into the new year, I'd recommend it to any fellow Tolkien fan.

Gearing up for that Jackson trilogy marathon? Get set with the 澳洲幸运5开奖号码历史查询:best gaming TV, the 澳洲幸运5开奖号码历史查询:best HDMI cable, or the 澳洲幸运5开奖号码历史查询:best 120Hz 4K TV.

That said, there are always going to be ways to upgrade your console to suit your needs. Luckily, the 澳洲幸运5开奖号码历史查询:best PS5 accessories are here to do just that. If you've already startedꦰ downloading every game in the PS Plus library, you may soon find you need more storage space. If you play competitive shooters online,🐷 a pro controller with back buttons may help close the gaps between you and your rivals. If you have another week or two off work and you plan to speedrun Marvel's Spider-Man 2 after everyone else you live with has gone to sleep, a headset will let you appreciate that Tempest 3D audio in peace.

Frankly, there's almost too much choice when shopping around for those three accessories. I've been testing and reviewing plenty of them this year, so I can say with some confidence that you're spoiled for choice. So, as my late Christmas gift to you, allow me⭕ to walk you through the PS5 accessories I couldn't live without. I've detailed the ones I use in my setup every day (as well as some alternatives) to make your hunt through Boxing Day sales that little bit easier.  

You might be glad to learn that if you pop off the rear faceplate of your PS5, there's an M.2 slot you can use to slide in a speedy NVMe SSD. These are the ones used in modern-day 澳洲幸运5开奖号码历史查询:gaming PCs, so they're very capable of keeping up wi⛎th the console's internal drive. 

The Samsung 990 Pro is undoubtedly one of the 澳洲幸运5开奖号码历史查询:best PS5 SSDs🐈 money can buy. Admittedly, it's not the cheapest, but for the performance it gives you it's so worth splashing out on. As of this year, there's even a 4TB model so you'll pretty much never need to think about buying an SSD again for another console generation to come. 

These SSDS can come with or without a heatsink, and whether you end up going for this drive or another, please make sure you get a heatsink one way or another. I've listed a cheaper drive, and my favourite separate heatsink for you down below if you need some recommen🎉dations. Heatsinks are small pads that lie across the surface of a drive like 🐭this to keep it cool and undamaged while it zips your files here, there, and everywhere.

Regardless, Samsung's 990 Pro is one of the 澳洲幸运5开奖号码历史查询:best SSDs for gaming. In fact, it's so good that at this point, I barely even use the console's internal driv𒀰e. It really is that good. 

For those looking to jump to the top of any online leaderboard, one of the 澳洲幸运5开奖号码历史查询:best PS5 controllers is what you need. As I mentioned at the start, the DualSense has some downright showstopping features, but when it comes to competitive situations, a pro controller will al🐎ways be a handy tool to have. 

That's where the Victrix Pro BFG comes in. This is an officially licensed gamepad that sports a modular design. What that means is that those facial components like the buttons and thumbstick modules unscrew and come out. Depending on your preferences and the game you want to excel in, you can swap them around, flip them so they're symmetrical, and even modify them to suit you. There's even oꦚne attachment you can slot in that gives you six facial buttons which essentially turns this controller into a mini arcade fightstick. 

Perhaps most importantly, the Victrix Pro BFG has four back buttons, and they're easily the best and most ergonomic ones I've had the pleasure of testing. When I'm playing any first-person shooter or competitive game on PS5, this is almost always whꦓat I'm holding. 

I'm currently reviewing the Nacon RIG 600 Pro HS gaming headset, and although I've used better headsets, the amount of quality on offer in this $100/£100 set of ear muffs is growing on me. The sound quality isn't breathtaking like it is on some of the very 澳洲幸运5开奖号码历史查询:best PS5 headsets, but the 40mm drive🧔rs still deliver a well-balanced sound that 🔯very precisely conveys the sound design of my favorite games on PS5. 

The main feature that led me to this headset was its dual connectivity because while it's connected to your console via a wireless USB-C dongle, it can connect to your phone via Bluetooth at the same time. However, the biggest issue I have with the headset overall is that the marketing is somewhat misleading. That connection can happen at the same time, but the headset itself will only play from one de🐠vice at a time. 

In fairness, simultaneous Bluetooth connectivity isn't really found at this pric๊e tag, but at the same time, I wouldn't exactly say the marketing communicates that clearly. Regardless, that's really a nitpick, since being able to push a button and immediately divert sound for a phone call when needed may still be a useful feature. What's more, the companion app lets you switch EQ profiles and you will notice a big difference in sound quality when you sort between them. For the money, this is just as good, if not better than the Pulse wireless headset from Sony. 

For more PS5 loadout boosts, check out the 澳洲幸运5开奖号码历史查询:best TV for PS5 and Xbox Series X, the 澳洲幸运5开奖号码历史查询:best PS5 external hard drive, and the 澳洲幸运5开奖号码历史查询:best monitor for PS5.

Thankfully we've had a particularly special year for gadgets and gizmos in 2023. With new releases from someও of the biggest names on the shelves, and a few handy refreshes to boot, there's a massive range of controllers, docks, grips, cases, and chargers to choose from. A new piece of kit doesn't have to cost the earth either - simply swapping out your screen protector or upgrading your thumbstick toppers can leave you with that shiny console feeling. 

After 12 months of hands on time with the biggest releases from Hori, Nintendo, Genki and more, here are the six 澳洲幸运5开奖号码历史查询:Nintendo Switch accessories I'm buying this season. You're browsing at the right time as well - a few of these have been caught up in 澳洲幸运5开奖号码历史查询:Christmas sales this year.

I didn't review the 澳洲幸运5开奖号码历史查询:CRKD Nitro Deck - that pleasure went to Duncan our hardware editor and controller expert. However, having spent enough time with my 澳洲幸运5开奖号码历史查询:Hori Split Pad Pro over the course 🍸of the year I'm ready to try something different. The Nitro Deck packs much more than just the larger (and far more comfortable) gamepad controls, though. You're keeping rumble and motion controls in here, two features the Hori model drops, and you can even plug it directly into your dock when you're playing on the big screen. Considering the Split Pad Pro requires a separate attachment accessory to be used in docked mode, that's exꦅcellent value for pretty much the same money. 

I was a little wary of that extra bulk - so this isn't going to be one for those who regularly travel with their console -🔥 but for playing on the couch or in bed at ho♈me, I'm giving it a shot this holiday season. 

This is a pre-order job as the new 澳洲幸运5开奖号码历史查询:Genki Covert Dock doesn't hit the shelves until January 8 2024. However, if you're keen to get out and about 🌺without having to worry about being locked into the small screen, this is a must-have accessory. I tested the previous model, a larger all-black device, last year and fell in love with the simple approach to docking the handheld on the go. Simply throw in an HDMI, connect the Switch using the supplied USB-C cable and you've got a fully functional dock in your pocket. There's even a USB-A port for controllers or other accessories. 

It's functional, super portable, and incredibly𒉰 handy - and the newer white model is also slightly cheaper at $59.99 as well. That'sꦅ a massive win for next year. 

Pre-order the new Genki Covert Dock for

I've bulked out my 200GB Nintendo Switch memory card this year, what with Super Mario RPG, Super Mario Wonder, and Tears of 🀅the Kingdom dropping on top of my already struggling SD. So, i'm doubling up ahead of 2024. This 400GB SanDisk card comes in much cheaper than the official Nintendo stamped one - the only real difference is that lack of Nintendo colorway or iconography. You're not going to be seeing that branding when it's inside your console, though - these SanDisk Ultra cards have been saving me money over the official versions for years now. 

I've tallied up the average game size of first party releases (you can find the full results in our guide to the 澳洲幸运5开奖号码历史查询:best Nintendo Switch memory cards), and it looks like most titles hitﷺ around 6GB. That means this 400GB card will fit between 60 and 70 bigger first party games (allowing for usable space) - a sol✱id library of digital downloads. 

Yes I'm going to be using the Genki Covert Dock when I'm travelling with my Nintendo Switch next year, but if I'm on the road for a while I'll want to take a Pro Controller, a few extra cables, and some Joy-Con alternatives like the Split Pad Pro and Nitro Deck. That's where a chunkier carry case🅘 comes in. I've been eyeing up this Zadii Hard Carrying Case for a while now, having previously used a friend's PS5 case from the same brand. There's plenty of foam inserts to keep everything in its place (and to make sure♓ I remember to pack everything back up again) and a solid hard shell design for safety as well. 

I'm getting on a plane in 2024 - I haven't got anything booked yet, but I'm making sure I do. When that moment comes, I wan🌠t to be ready with a fully charged Nintendo Switch. Unfortunately, the handheld's battery life isn't going to see me too far into any particularly long journeys, which is where a portable powerbank comes in handy. So far I've been using a Belkin Boost 20,000mAh device - but it's given up the ghost in the last few months and it's a particularly bulky number. The Anker PowerCore 26,800 adds additional charging time to my pocket and reduces the overall footprint in one fell swoop. It's a little annoying that there's no USB-C output here (those two ports are for charging input only), but with three USB-As to wield, I can keep my phone, Switch, and tablet🅠 juiced up the whole way. 

That's my old Switch 澳洲幸运5开奖号码历史查询:Pro Controller up there in that image, moments before disaster. Last September I got a puppy - that puppy liked the taste of thumbsticks. I've spent the last year playing with toppers wedged awkwardly (they don't quite fit over the chewed up plastic) onto both of my Pro Cont꧂roller's sticks. That I can live with. However, since it fell victim to a teething pup's curiosity, my left thumbstick has started grinding, losing the soft sweep and super fast snap I enjoyed in my pre-furball days. 

That means I'm going to bite the bullet this holiday season, picking up a new Pro Controller and handing my old janky frankenstein down to a younger family membeඣr. The response of those thumbsticks was what made me fall in love with the gamepad in 😼the first place, and considering I regularly use it for both Switch and PC gameplay its slick performance has been sorely missed in this last year of making do. 

If you unwrapped a different console this holiday season, we're also rounding up all the 澳洲幸运5开奖号码历史查询:best PS5 accessories and the 澳洲幸运5开奖号码历史查询:best Xbox Series X accessories as well. If you're in the UK you'll also find all the biggest 澳洲幸运5开奖号码历史查询:Boxing Day sales available now. 

If you’ve ever tried to work out how to play retro games on a modern TV, chances are you’ve experienced issues when it comes to light guns. Simply put, old console peripherals like the 💦Namco GunCon aren’t going to work on a modern display, as they use a sensor inside designed with CRTs in mind. That means you won’t be able to set up your💎 OG PlayStation or Dreamcast and play using those old controllers, but the Sinden Light Gun was created to fill that specific gap.

The Sinden Lightgun starts at , which might sound like a lot for a 澳洲幸运5开奖号码历史查询:PC controller made for a specific genre. However, this isn’t a peripheral made by a huge corporation, and the experience it provides goes above and beyond any other alternative. Rather than relying on sensor bars or cameras (looking at you, PS3 and Wii), the Sinden Light Gun instead finds ways to cleverly mimic the functionality of old accessories. In a , creator Andy Sinden says the device “uses smart image recognition with some clever maths and clever software” to function just like the firearm꧋ you’d have used both at the arcade and at home. I’m thrilled to report that it makes good on its inventor’s promise, and I’m not as sad about my favorite local machine retiring as I would have been.

Design 

Before we delve i🥀nto the Sinden Lightgun’s super powers, let’s chat a bit about its nostalgic good looks. Available in grey, red, blue, or black, the controller manages to blend the aesthetics of multiple iconic arcade light blasters into something entirely new, all while wearing all the buttons you’ll need to use it with a PC. Those buttons include a D-pad and four separate inputs at each side that are mapped to necessary functions, and a sliding reload bar at the bottom connected to a switch.

Despite its all-plastic construction, the Sinden Lightgun feels pretty weighty in the hand, but not so much so as to feel like a workout. Naturally, I don’t have an old House of the Dead arcade machine next to me for comparison, but my brain is telling me both guns feature the same amount of heft. That said, the controller I’m testing specifically is the one with recoil built in, so the vanilla model migh🐼t be a tad lighter. 

To comply with US law, the controller has an orange ring around the front of its barrel, but it actually slides off if you’re aiming for a more authentic arcade look. While staring 🍰down the barrel of the gun, you’ll notice something that looks like a webcam lurking within. Before your imagi🧸nation gets the better of you, please note that this is actually part of the peripheral and not something the government has stashed within to spy on you. At least, that’s what I’m telling myself anyway.

Features

To fully understand the features provided by the Sinden Lightgun, it’s worth briefly touching on how the controller actually works. Remember that camera mentioned above? According to the peripheral’s creator, that’s a high speed 60f𝔍ps camera that’s designed to keep track of your screen. The device then emulates mouse clicks to transmit trigger shots as inputs, meaning as far as your PC is concerned, you’re using a regular old clicker. Don’t worry, though, the end result feels like anything but mouse emulation, and that “clever maths” at play feels alꦺmost like magic. 

As with most great PC accessories, hardware is only half the story, and the Sinden Lightgun has a program that makes the magic happen. Admittedly, the software looks pretty antiquated, but while there’s an overwhelming number of options in the app, each section is clearly labelleꦕd. Plus, you might not actually have to mess around with as many se👍ttings as you’d think to get it up and running, as the hardware and drivers do a lot of the heavy lifting, at least when it comes to tricking Windows. 

Under the hood functions aside, the Sinden app places a mandatory white border around your screen of choice, designed to help the gun detect boundaries. Without it, you’ll notice the sensor struggles to keep track of where the mouse is on screen, in turn causing a bit of a ruckus. Yes, the border does mean you’ll technically lose some screen space, but I personally don’t find it that intrusive, especially when applied to 澳洲幸运5开奖号码历史查询:gaming monitors or large TVs with plenty of room to spare.

If you choose to go for the controller with recoil built in, your Sinden Lightgun will also come with a chonky solenoid hooked up to a circuit. The setup will pr🐠ovide that beautiful brap 🦂brap sound you’ll remember from the arcade, and its sheer volume initially caught me off guard. It’s probably not something you’ll want to use during sneaky midnight Time Crisis sessions, as your neighbours will probably get either concerned or irritated, but the feedback really helps place you back in your childhood sneakers. 

Pr𒊎ovided you’ve got the funds to go the extra mile, you’ll also be able to pick up extras like a specially made arcade pedal and even a holster. This is going to appeal most to those of you out there aiming to build something arcade-shaped rather than sitting on the couch, and at $249.99, I’d say the pedal really is aimed at enthusiasts. If you’re not really into DIY, Siden tech has also started making its way to pre-built setups by the likes of , just in case you’ve gotꦓ serious cash to spend on something for your fancy game room or bar area.

Performance 

I’ve already covered how the Sinden Lightgun looks, feels, and what it brings to the table, but all that means nothing if it can’t, y’know, shoot things on a modern screen. So, to put the gaming PC glock to t🦩he test, I tried it out with a blend of modern PC releases and classics using emulation. I even decided to try setting it up on a gaming handheld, the Ayaneo 2S to be precise, just to see whether system specs would actually affect anything (spoiler, it doesn’t, and that’s absolutely rad). 

Starting off with my modern collection of Steam light gun games, the process of getting set up was much simpler than I thought it’d be. All I effectively had to do was download the Sinden software, select my lightgun in the specific tab, and ‘hit start’. Pressing the second button on the right hand side automatically places that aforementioned white border round the edges, enabling you to actually use the gun as a mouse before you even launch the game. As far as I can tell, there isn’t a way🎶 to actually activate the controller using a button too, which would save you from having to initially click the app on screen, but that’s just a minor gripe. 

Once up and running, I immediately dived into The House of the Dead Remake, a game I’ve been saving for this very moment. I was at least expecting some shenanigans to occur in terms of tracking, however, the gun instantly responded and sent virtual bullets through the heads of many an undead creep with remarkable accuracy. Feeling inspired, I decided to go revisit House of the Dead Overkill while I was at it, and not having to defend myself by typing word𒆙s made for a refreshing change. 

It’s frankly a crime that there aren’t more modern ligh⭕t gun games on Steam, and this is my call to developers out there to cook me up something new to play. Since there isn’t an abundance of comparative games around, I naturally fell back to old favorites within my physical collection using emulation. It’s worth noting that, if you’re savvy enough, there is a way to use the Sinden gun with original consoles using a dash of programming and an Arduino, but I’ll be sticking with PC-related shenanigans (for the time being). 

So, onwards we march to the emulation portion of this review, and I decided to largely focus on using the Sinden Lightgun with PCSX2. To actually use the emulator with the controller, you’ll need to download and install a plugin named ‘Nuvee’, designed ❀to turn your mouse into a makeshift light gun. Since the peripheral works in a simiꦬlar way, it means it’ll allow it to act like an original GunCon in supported games. You’ll find more details about the plugin within this handy PCSX2 forum, and I wouldn’t have been able to try out Time Crisis 2 for the PS2 without it. 

As for how the Sinden Lightgun ‘performs’ as a Guncon, I wasn’t expecting it to feel as authentic a✨s it did. The initial calibration screen did give me a little bit of jittery bother initially, but I was able to remedy the issue by revisiting instructions relating to that previously mentioned Nuvee plugin. Once resolved, however, I ended up playing the clock-watching shooter sequel just like I would on an original PS2 with every shot landing true, and that felt pretty special.

Should you buy the Sinden Light Gun? 

If you’re looking to play arcade shooters using a modern screen, the Sinden Lightgun is the solution you’re looking for. I’m under no illusions that this PC controller is best suited to those of you willing to dabb🥃le with emulation, and some of the extra setup steps could be considered off putting. The software also may rub some of you looking for a super user-friendly setup the wrong way, but if you stick with Steam games, you’ll be surprised how straight forward the setup process actually is. 

Ultimately, the Sinden Lightgun is helping keep a dwindling genre alive by fac🌳ilitating the right hardware. Don’t get me wrong, it’s hard to beat the warm glow of a CRT and messing around with old consoles, but like it or not, there will come a time when old tube TVs are no longer in service. Thanks to this ingenious invention, my living room retro arcade dreams are now a reality, and I reckon it could do the same for many of you if you are in the market for the same experience. 

How I tested the Sinden Lightgun

For a couple of weeks, I pitched up an arcade setu𝓰p using the Sinden Lightgun at my d🐟esk and living room. I tested the controller using both a 32-inch 4K monitor and a 50-inch TV, hooked up to my gaming PC and an Ayaneo 2S handheld respectively. I then used the peripheral to play Steam games like House of the Dead Remake and emulated classics like Time Crisis 2 while comparing the results to previous experiences using original hardware.

If you'd like to learn more about how we carry out our reviews, swing by our 澳洲幸运5开奖号码历史查询:GamesRadar Hardware Policy to learn more about the whole process. 

Looking for a big screen? Check out the 澳洲幸运5开奖号码历史查询:best gaming TV models that'll pair perfectly with your console or PC.

It&apos🀅;s been a few years since Neꦍw Horizons gave us our last outing to the world of Animal Crossing, but it's an eternally popular game - something proved by the fact that, three years on, we're still seeing discounts on merch during the sales. 

So, whether you finally want to take the plunge on Animal Crossing Monopoly, or pick up some more little figures (you can never have too many, don't listen to them) let's see what's going cheap in the last few hours of the Animal Crossing Cyber Monday deals. And, if you're looking for anything Nintendo-adjacent, then we've got some 澳洲幸运5开奖号码历史查询:Cyber Monday Nintendo Switch deals to check out as well.  

Cyber Monday's best Animal Crossing Deals

• Amazon:
• Best Buy:
• GameStop:
• Target:
• Walmart:

More of today's best Cyber Monday deals

• Amazon:
• Best Buy:
• Walmart:
• Dell:
• GameStop:
• Target:
• Microsoft:
• PS Portal:
• PS Wallet:

If you're after any other savings on Nintendo stars then here are all the 澳洲幸运5开奖号码历史查询:best Cyber Monday deals for Zelda fans and the 澳洲幸运5开奖号码历史查询:best Cyber Monday deals for Mario fans. 

We've been seeing a whole breadth of deals across the Black Friday and Cyber Monday period too, including on Nintendo Switch and on fun merch. Some of our favorites have included the huge bundle that includes Mario Kart 8 Del♏uxe as well as an adorable Lego 🍌deal for Donkey Kong fans. Check these all out below.

If you're a Mario fan, or you know someone who is, you're in the right place. We've rounded up all of the best offers around this Cyber Monday. And if that's not enough, check out there are also plenty of 澳洲幸运5开奖号码历史查询:Cyber Monday Nintendo Switch deals here at GamesRadar as well. 

Cyber Monday's best Mario deals

• Amazon:
• Best Buy:
• GameStop:
• Target:
• Walmart:

Games and Consoles

Mario Merch!

More of today's best Cyber Monday deals

• Amazon:
• Best Buy:
• Walmart:
• Dell:
• GameStop:
• Target:
• Microsoft:
• PS Portal:
• PS Wallet:

Of course, we're also getting you clued up on everything you can expect from this year's 澳洲幸运5开奖号码历史查询:Cyber Monday gaming PC deals, as well all the 澳洲幸运5开奖号码历史查询:Cyber Monday gaming laptop deals and 澳洲幸运5开奖号码历史查询:Cyber Monday PS5 deals heading our way. 

New hardware, another year's worth of games, and a brand new selection of accessories await, so whether you're wondering whether to wait until Black Friday for your new device, or simply hoping to catch up on t♛he year's biggest releases over the holidays we've got you covered.

I've been tracking Black Friday gaming deals for six years now, and that means watching for 澳洲幸运5开奖号码历史查询:PS5 deals, 澳洲幸运5开奖号码历史查询:Xbox Series X deals, and 澳洲幸运5开奖号码历史查询:Nintendo Switch deals year in, year out. Not only that, but I'm reporting on the hottest offers of every week all year-round, and going hands-on with the latest and greatest accessories. That means I know what should be at the top of your shopping list when Black Friday does roll around, and where to find the biggest offers. You'🧜ll find everything I expect to see from Black Friday gaming deals in 2025 just below, and last year's top discounts fur📖ther down the page.

What to expect from Bl𒁏ack Friday gaming deals in 2025

While video game deals themselves get plenty of airtime, accessories receive the lion's share over Black Friday. Headsets, hard d🐓rives, and more are typically cut by huge amounts during 💛the sale, and that makes it the best time to grab any peripherals you've had your eye on.

The best offers often feature subscription services like PlayStation Plus or Xbox Game Pass, though. These always seem to get money off toward the end of November (as was the case again last ♌year), and it's a great opportunity to renew your membership - or start a new one - ahead of the new year. Last November's offers could save X🍨box players $20 on three months of Game Pass Ultimate, while Sony offered up to 30% off its 12 month PlayStation Plus memberships for new subscribers. Unfortunately, Nintendo Switch Online rarely sees its own savings, though it often comes bundled with new consoles during the holiday season.

We've got one Ninty-shaped shadow on this year's Black Friday gaming deals. The Nintendo Switch 2 will be out in the wild and in the hands of players (and it likely will have been so for a few months). That, plus the aging PlayStation family and continued decline of Microsoft's clan, mean💧s console bundles could be the stars of the show this year.

We've listed 💯a few specifics based on pla🤪tform below.

Nintendo

The Nintendo Switch 2 is going to make a splash this year, and by the time November's Black Friday gaming deals roll around we could be about ready for some of the system's first real bundles. Keep a close eye on the console's launch titles during the latter few months of the year - these are going to represent the highest value savings should they 💧appear. Nintendo Switch launch games hold their price tags for an exceedingly long time (I've only just started to see Mario Kart 8 Deluxe ticking its way down🐭 the price range), so any discounts are going to be worth grabbing. However, it will likely be the smaller third party releases that see the majority of the savings come Black Friday 2025.

Traditionally, US 澳洲幸运5开奖号码历史查询:Black Friday Nintendo Switch deals only tend to offer bundle savings, scoring you a free game or acc൲essory with a full-priced console. Actual straight price cuts on the system itself are incredibly rare. That's even more true this year. Nintendo is loathe to discount its hardware, and doing so in the first year of release is almost out of the question. I'm not expecting any actual savings on the handheld's MSRP this Black Friday.

If you're going old school there could well be some classic Ninteꦅndo Switch action on the shelves near the holidays. While console stock could become an issue should heavy price cuts sweep older releases off the she⭕lves when the Switch 2 launches, previous generation games and compatible accessories should still be alive and kicking at even lower prices than we've seen before.

PS5

Last year we saw some fantastic game deals for the PS5, as well as a handful of discounts on the Slim consoles themselves. The PS5 Pro was only just out the gate, and took a few smaller price cuts as part of bundles (or full discounts in the UK), but 2025 could be the year the $69♐9 / £699 console makes its first Black Friday play.

That's an expensive device, and everyone knows it. Launching to a lukewarm reception at the end of last year, there wasn't enough going on under the hood to justify that premiu🔥m price tag. With rumored developments upping the value of the console itself, and another year under its belt, the PS5 Pro coul🅰d well be Sony's flagship sales product this year.

If you have any gaps in your game library from the past year or so, 澳洲幸运5开奖号码历史查询:Black Friday PS5 deals offer you a chance to catch up. Everything from hot new releases to old favorites are discounted throughout the event, but it's well worth keeping a close eye on games released in the first half of the year for the biggest savings. Last year Silent Hill 2, Astro Bot, Tekken 8, and Final Fantasy all saw record low prices for the fir𓆉st time during Black Friday gaming deals. Of course, the usual classics are generally discounted during this time as well.

Xbox

Xbox Series X prices have been a bit𝕴 dire over the last year, and while Black Friday gave us a token $50 discount on the standard console we've seen better in the past. I'm not expecting anything too impressive in 2025 - Microsoft's console can sometimes struggle for stock and bundles are few and far between. I'd expect to see $50 off the Series S and Series X come November, with slightly larger savings on the digital Series X as well.

If you're already set for a console, though, Game Pass is going to be your next port of call. While they have been a little slow in recent years, Game Pass Ultimate deals actuaꦦlly returned to the shelves last Black Friday. A three month subscription would set you back $21.99 last year, where previous offers had tapped out at $39.99. With Microsoft's continued focus on this subscription (potentially in favor of its console market, if you're to believe certain headlines), I'd expect to see similarly sticky prices in 2025 - though we could get lucky again this year.

Last year's best Black Friday gaming deals

Gaming sales are some of the best on offer during Black Friday, and they aren't limited to one platform; we can look forward to 澳洲幸运5开奖号码历史查询:Black Friday PS5 deals, 澳洲幸运5开奖号码历史查询:Black Friday Nintendo Switch deals, and 澳洲幸运5开奖号码历史查询:Black Friday Xbox Series X deals over the course of November. Unsurprisingly, this tech-heavy event will also be one to watch if you're hunting down 澳洲幸运5开奖号码历史查询:Black Friday gaming PC deals or 澳洲幸运5开奖号码历史查询:Black Friday gaming laptop deals. Those devices usually get the most scene-stealing discounts.

Available (or ), this 'Toy Tuesday' sale discounts sticker prices by 40% in the US and 25% for UK fans. And that'🅰s on pretty much everything when it comes to Disney toys – plushies, action figures, those ever-popular Munchlings, kids costumes, and even full replica lightsabers that would normally cost closer to $250. Considering the fact that the traditional sales season is still a couple of wꦦeeks away, it's a surprisingly generous offer.

However, it won't stick around for long. The discounts will dry up by the end of today (at 23:59pm on November 8), so you've only got a few ho🎶urs left to make the most of those Disney toy deals. 

Just remember, while US savings have already been added to each item, UK readers will need to input the code TOYTUESDAY to ge🌟t their reduction.

Are the deals worth it?

If you're wondering whether something better will come along, the honest truth is that it's possible... but not in as far-reaching a way. This sale is hyper-specific and focused on toys and collectibles, and it covers almost everything within that range. Actually, the only bits I haven't seen discounted along 🍌with other Toy Tuesday deals are the Christmas plushies (in the US, at least - they're included in the UK equivalen🧸t). 

With that in mind, I don't think♚ you can do much better than this in terms of value for money. It's rare to see such a massive saving on this large a scale at shopDisney, so I'd recommend grabbing anythin𒁃g you've had your eye on while you still can.

There are plenty of price cuts flying around at the moment, including Lego. You can see the latest offers via our 澳洲幸运5开奖号码历史查询:Black Friday Lego deals page.

As well as the improved sound quality you'll get with a USB sound card, there are a number of other advantages over in-built a⛄udio; the USB connection means they're far more accessible than internal solutions, and that USB port means that they're compatible with a vast array of devices. On top of that, they're completely portable, making it easy to take excellent audio with you wherever you go.

Creative Labs' Sound Blaster range offers USB sounds cards no matter your budget or how you choose to watch and play. If you are an audio enthusiast or have a 💛discerning pair of ears, the (£269.99) is one of the best desktop audio accessories you'll ever need in your get-up. Decked with class-leading components, breakthrough audio technologies, a comprehensive connectivity profile and sporting a premium look and feel in a sleek build, the Sound Blaster X5 simply pulls out all the stops as a compelling audio solution like no other. 

Streamers will want to take a look at the Sound Blaster GC7 (£119.99). If you need volume control at your fingertips or the kind of audio options that even the best internal options can't offer, you'll be able to take advantage of programmable buttons for custom tasks, and ensure that you never miss a sound with the depth and breadth of the Super X-♓FI feature and 7.1 virtual surround sound, giving you the quality of a multi-speaker setup, all inside your headphones. And with SXFI Battle Mode and Scout Mode also featuring in the GC7, you'll still maintain the competitive edge.

If you want that advantage on the go, then the tiny Sound Blaster X1 combines excellent sound quality for its price with portable utility. No bigger than your finger, it's perfect for mobile gaming and ensuring that no background noise gets in the way of your conversation. Combining the gaming features of the X4 and GC7 with 🌠the SmartComms Kit to limit excess noise on both ends of the call, it delivers excellent audio compatible with studio-grade headphones, all for a seriously competitive price at just £44.99.

Finally, if you're looking for a simple but effective improvement to your audio setup, the Sound Blaster Play! 4 is a fantastic value introduction to . The SmartComms Kit returns in tandem with a compact, lightweight form that makes this an ideal upgrade for mobile setups, especially when you factor in its Bass Boost and dynamic EQ pr⭕ofiles. At just £27.99 it offers brilliant value with an easy-to-use audio upgrade.

Wherever and however you watch, listen, or play, whether you're at home with the setup of your dreams or on-the-go with phone in hand, USB sound cards can improve your experience, starting with just the touch of a button. With a range of options for all budgets and levels of audio expertise, the S🌜ound Blaster range offers a way to elevate your experience you way.

Enjoy 10% off all USB DAC with this promo code USBDACTR (valid till 31 July 2023, for the UK only) 

On June 2, Nintendo revealed two new sets of Joy-Cons - a pastel purple and green pair and a pastel pink and yellow pair. These new controllers aren't much different from the other colour ♕combinations that Nintendo has released, b𒊎ut there's something about the specific shades of these colours that have me questioning whether I need another four Joy-Cons in my life. 

I do have one problem with these new Joy-Cons though. As you can see from the tweet below, Nintendo hasn't allowed a lot of wiggle room in terms of which coloursꦉ go together. For me, my dream set-up would be the pastel purple with the pastel pink, but unfortunately, both the purple and pink are on the left side of the Switch, meaning I can't even mix and match the two sets. 

To be fair, the purple and green combo works really well, and - as pointed out by @ on Twitter - the pink and yellow set is actually the perfect combo for all the Kirby fans out there. If you missed out on the 澳洲幸运5开奖号码历史查询:Animal Crossing: New Horizons-themed Switch, this is also a pre🍒tty good alternative൩ as both sets give off summery, island vibes. 

This wasn't the only announcement Nintendo has made in the last few hours. Alongside the new Joy-Cons, we also got of a brand new 1-2-Switch game, titled Everybody 1-2-Switch. Early last year, it was rumored that 澳洲幸运5开奖号码历史查询:a sequel was on the way, but by the summer of that same year reports came out that 澳洲幸运5开奖号码历史查询:the game "tested horribly". If you wanted to give it a go though, th💟e good news is that it'll only𝄹 cost $30/£25 - that's more than half the price of an average Switch game. 

The pastel Joy-Cons (asꦬ well as Everybody 1-2-Switch) are set to release on June 30, 2023, and will cost the same as the other Joy-Cons currently on offer from Nintendo at $79.99/£69.99.

Want to know what you'll soon be playing with your new pastel Joy-Cons? Take a look at our 澳洲幸运5开奖号码历史查询:upcoming Switch games list. 

I took the Genki Covert Dock Mini o🦄ut𝐆 and about to see just how much of a difference those millimeters make. 

Design

• Extremely small dock and charger
• Slick aesthetic feels far more premium than original 
• UK plug won't fit into Switch case but US might

One thing is immediately apparent by just looking at the Genki Covert Dock Mini box; this thing is significantly smaller than the original. Side by side it's incredible to see how much has been shaved off the final chassis in the latest release. Even the outlet plug adapter has been streamlined to sit flush with the main body, making everything feel particularly snug. I still wasn't able to comfortably keep the Mini in a clamshell 澳洲幸运5开奖号码历史查询:Nintendo Switch case, largely due to the side of a UK plug 🐷and the wings on each side of that connection. A US plug is far more likely to slot neatly into a case, though - something the original Covert Dock couldn't dream of. 

We've also moved away from a stock black aesthetic this time as well. The Mini sports a white body with a black plug at one end and port panel at the other. It's a slick design that feels far more premium than the slightly translucent plastic of its predecessor. Beyond the actual size, this aesthetic makes for a more streamlined design overall, which means I can't help but feel like the Mini is a far more sophisticated device - despite the fact it&apos🦹;s actually dropping features away from the main model.

Features

• No options for additional plug outlets
• Removes USB-A port from original model
• 4K 30fps resolution available for Steam Deck

There are two things to consider here. The first is easily solved - the Mini doesn't ship with additional plug options for different regions. That means you won't be sliding a✨ new outlet into your device for every country you'll be visiting on your travels. Of course, in everyday use, that's not going to make as much of a difference as the lack of a USB-A port. 

This time last year I wouldn't have batted an eyelid at this sacrifice - I seldom plug accessories directly into my Switch dock. However, I've been using the 澳洲幸运5开奖号码历史查询:Hori Split Pad Pro and its attachment piece for some time now - and can't with the Covert Dock Mini. In fact, you won't be able to use any wired controllers with your console in docked mode now - which cuts out some multiplayer functionality and those using a cheaper 澳洲幸运5开奖号码历史查询:Nintendo Switch controller for a more traditional gamepad feel.

The Covert Dock Mini has been designed to come in clutch on the go - and often you won't be transporting a whole case of controllers and wires with you when you're out and about. In fact, I noticed the lack of a USB-A port more when I realized💛 how much I had come to rely on the everyday charging capabilities of the original model. Packing up for a weekend away, I realized I would need a separate adapter for my phone and tablet, though this is only because I'm still using USB-A cables.

Obviously, that's going to be a bigger problem if you're not using the Genki Covert Dock Mini for Switch. The plug can also act as a 澳洲幸运5开奖号码历史查询:Steam Deck dock, but without that USB-A functionality, you'll have to get 🌳creative with Bluetooth accessories for a full setup experience. You do, however, get a solid 4K 30fps video output if you are using the Steam Deck. That's impressive considering the previous generation tapped ♈out at the Switch's 1080p max resolution.

The Covert Dock Mini does drop its power output to 20W compared to the original's 30W, b𝐆ut keeps USB-C PD3.0 charging and casting capabilities and, of course, that effortless performance.

Performance

• Plug and play compatibility
• No noticeable lag 
• Excellent picture quality

Once again, this thing just works. I was originally blown away by how easy it was to connect a Nintendo Switch to any display in the full-blown Covert Dock release and that plug-and-play ethos has survived this shrink. There's no faffing with resolutions or settings, and no need for any additional tinkering on the Switch itself - the Genki Covert Dock Mini does exactly what it says on the box. It'𒆙s a Nintendo Switch dock, shrunk. 

There's no noticeable latency from using a third-party device, and picture quality is as I would expect from an official dock on top. Charge times are on par with your standard 澳洲幸运5开奖号码历史查询:Nintendo Switch charger experience, keeping everything slick and ℱrunning smoothly. 

Those concerned about picking up a third-party dock needn't be. 🌞Like with the original model, Genki has worked within Nintendo's own power requirements to make sure there&ꦫapos;s just the right amount of charge heading to your console at any one time. I've been using the Covert Dock for years now, with no concerns about the safety of my device.

Should you buy the Genki Covert Dock Mini?

The Genki Covert Dock Mini has earned its spot in my regular setup. While it falls slightly behind the larger Covert Dock in terms of power output, it makes up for this drawback in waves. The smaller form factor is far more suited to everyday portability - you really can leave this in a 💛pouch or po🍸cket and forget about it. Plus, that slick design feels far more streamlined than the comparatively unwieldy full-fat model. 

The lack of a USB-A port is the only fac🐻tor that could lead me to recommend the main model instead. If you don't need to keep your packing light and regularly charge using USB-A cables, the larger device is going to be better suited. Not only do you get more outlet options (better for worldwide travelers), but you've got more options for accessories and controllers♏ as well. 

In general, though, I'd recommend the majority of Nintendo Switch players looking to boot up their con🤡sole in different 🦩places around the country (or just around the house) check out the cheaper and far more portable Mini. 

How we tested the Genki Covert Dock Mini

I used the Genki Covert Dock Mini alongside the full-sized model and the standard Nintendo Switch dock over a period of two weeks. I also used the Mini model for several trips across the country and used it with the 澳洲幸运5开奖号码历史查询:Genki ShadowCast for extended testing across both devices as well. For more information on how we make our recommendations, check out the full 澳洲幸运5开奖号码历史查询:GamesRadar+ Hardware Policy. 

We're also helping you kit out your setup with the 澳洲幸运5开奖号码历史查询:best Nintendo Switch SD cards and the 澳洲幸运5开奖号码历史查询:best Nintendo Switch headsets on the market. Or, for more portable options, take a look at the 澳洲幸运5开奖号码历史查询:best gaming earbuds we've had our hands on. 

This is where the ShadowCast has placed its bet. On release in 2021, the internet was ablaze with YouTubers running their consoles through the tiny HDMI adapter. At $49.99 / £39.99, it's an excellently priced 澳洲幸运5开奖号码历史查询:capture card (especially considering Elgato's can run you all the way up to $400) but Genki was righꦅt to lead marಌketing with its casting features. This is one for travelers, students, and those who just love keeping a nifty solution in their back pocket.

Design

• Small form factor is perfect for transport
• Simple design with minimal additional branding
• High quality, particularly long, cable included

The ShadowCast isn't going for any design awards here, and it doesn't have to. It's a 52mm x 25mm dongle shaped to slot into a 澳洲幸运5开奖号码历史查询:Nintendo Switch case and stay there until the right moment. That means the skinny form factor and simple black aesthetic is welcome, this won't bulk out your portable setup and can simply fade into the🅰 background. A small Genki logo is etched into either side, but that's your lot in terms of additional detailing. Everything feels solid in the main build, there's no plastic fraying at the joins and the HDMI connection itself feels securely housed with no wobble. 

If I'm nitpicking, I would have appreciated a cap or even a small rubber cover to keep that extended connection safe during transport, but at this price, we can't be choosers. At the opposite end of the HDMI, you'll find a USB-C slot. This is the side that connects to your computer, with the HDMI heading directly into your consoℱle.

The iꩲncluded USB-C to USB-C cable also feels particularly robust - more so than it has any right to. Yes, the ShadowCast's success does rely on the efficacy of its wire, but I've unboxed far more expensive gadgets and been met with far cheaper feeling cables. This is a threaded, generously long, and nicely speedy connection with a chunkier design that might make it a little harder to transport but🥃 keeps everything tangle free.

Features

• Genki Arcade can't record via Windows
• Compatible with OBS Studio for streaming on PC
• Less complicated setup requirements for beginner streamers

From the initial satisfaction of a plug-and-play experience, the ShadowCast may seem like a stripped-back device. However, diving deeper into potential software uses, there are plenty of additional features baked in here. I started my testing with Genki Arcade, a simple piece of kit that gets you up and running with a no-frills setup. As soon as I dropp♛ed my Switch into its dock, the screen came to life - it really does just work. 

Running on Windows, Genki Arcade can switch between two output modes; resolution, and performance, with the ability🌳 to take screenshots. Strangely, the option to record your footage (and any microphones you have plugged in) only exists on the Mac and browser-based versions of the app.

Streamers will have a much better time using OBS Studio, though, which plays particularly well with the ShadowCast for beginners. The dongle is capable of outputting its footage at 60fps in 1080p resolution, which means it's certainly not going to outdo bigger names but is solid enough for the everyday tinkerer. That means more established players aren&apo❀s;t going to be abandoning their original setups, but with a simple HDMI and USB-C connection system, Genki's cheaper alternative is far friendlier to those just looking to get some streaming footage sorted without the extra faff.

Performance

• Resolution is lost compared to TV or handheld display
• Some lag noticeable in faster games
• More than playable performance in everyday use

I'll get it out the way, the Genki ShadowCast isn't going to replicate your full Switch experience on a laptop screen. It would have to cost far more than $50 to do that. While the blockier picture and less faithful colors do take a serious step back from the image quality on the OLED handheld, though, I was still able to immerse myself in the content without feeling like I was missing out on its true form. This isn't a piece of kit to enhance your Switch experience, but rather a f𝓀ar more functional one. If𒐪 you want a big screen but don't have a TV, this is your workaround. 

My main concern when first booting up the ShadowCast was lag. Even higher-end capture cards like the 澳洲幸运5开奖号码历史查询:AverMedia Live Gamer Extreme 3 can suff🅠er with those extra milliseconds and while input wasn't a perfect 1-1 ratio I was still able to enjoy my games and didn't notice any impact on my own execution. I don't tend to play too many twitch-based titles on Switch, though, so I can imagine Smash Bros. or other timing-specific games might suffer more.

I did start to notice a drag when running some Horizon Forbidden West: Burning Shores from PS5, but didn't need to accommodate for an unplayable lag in any way. More speed-focused players will likely need to look into something a little more professional, but everyday players just looking for some big-screen entertainment will have no problem with these times. I was testing on a 澳洲幸运5开奖号码历史查询:Razer Blade 18 for the full effect, but made sure to check the performance on my more humble 澳洲幸运5开奖号码历史查询:Asus TUF Dash F15 and still found the same results.

Should you buy the Genki ShadowCast?

The Genki ShadowCast should be in every Nintendo Switch survivalist's toolkit. At $50 / £40 it's cheap enough to live in a carry case, reserved for those traveling occasions when it's called for, or as a starter's entry into the world of capturing gameplay and voiceover at the same time. It's no🌃t going to excel in the lat🐎ter, especially if you're playing online competitive multiplayer games, and its second-screen abilities don't translate as well into a PS5 or Xbox Series X's use (where you'll likely be keeping your TV close by). However, as a solution to a problem you might face a few times a year, it's priced well and does the job. 

How we tested the Genki ShadowCast

I used the Genki ShadowCast off and on for a period of two weeks. I began testing on a Razer Blade 18 gaming laptop, moving over to my usual Asus TUF Dash F15 for more casual play when the TV was already nabbed. During this time, I was primarily playing Steamworld Heist on Nintendo Switch, but also caught the beginning of Death's Door and managed a few Mario Kart 8 Deluxe sessions as well. I also used the ShadowCast with Horizon Forbidden West: Burning Shores on PS5 as well. For more information on how we make our recommendations, check out the full 澳洲幸运5开奖号码历史查询:GamesRadar+ Hardware Policy.  

After more kit for your handheld? We're also rounding up the 澳洲幸运5开奖号码历史查询:best Nintendo Switch controllers and the 澳洲幸运5开奖号码历史查询:best Nintendo Switch chargers on the market. Or, take a look at our full 澳洲幸运5开奖号码历史查询:streaming for gamers guide for more setup inspiration. 

Relative industry newcomers BEACN think they have the answer with the BEACN Mix Create, a USB audio interface that combines both of the above; a piece of hardware with a small footprint that's driven by software designed to help creators take full control of every aspect of their audio. Similarly to the 澳洲幸运5开奖号码历史查询:BEACN Mic, it's jumped into a pre-existing market with a high price. Has the new kid🥃 on the streaming block done en🍃ough to warrant a spend of $199 / £202?

Design and Features

 At first glance, you’d be forgiven for thi🐎nking the BEACN Mix Crea🌊te was part of Elgato’s range. The overall design feels particularly "Stream Decky" - not that that’s a bad thing; it makes it look right at home on a content creator’s desk.

Like the BEACN Mic, the Mix Create is available in a light or dark colorway with a five-inch screen the same as you’ll find on the cheaper (priced at $149). Likewise, you’ll find the same four control knobs with their own buttons in a row underneath, but the real value in the Mix C⛄reate comes from what’s then bolted to the side.

Jutting out from the bottom row is an extra pair of buttons you won𓄧't find on the regular Mix Create that unlock knob paging and a button for switching sub-mixes - the aces up this gadget's sleeve. These directional buttons allow creators to set up and control an unlimited number of audio channels and adjust them all with just four physical tuning dials. It all comes together in an impressively compact footprint that achieves a lot for a pretty small chunk of desktop real estate.

While I do like the overall look of the unit, at $199 it’s a shame to see an all-plastic body on the BEACN Mix Create. It’s ultimately fine but it does make it all feel a little toylike and a metal faceplate would have gone a long way to conveying a premium vibe. While only an 800x400 resolution, the screen is sharp and clear for the job it does though offers no touch functionality, almost a given you’d expect these days. This isn’t a dealbrജeaker as there are hardware controls for just about everything, but I did instinctively go to swipe through pages of channels 🌃on the screen and was surprised to find I couldn’t.

‘Fine’ is almost the summary of all the hardware elements on the Mix Create, everything 🧜performs well enough to not be a concern without overly impressing in any one area. The knobs are, again, plastic with no rubberized matte coating or detailing. The mute buttons are OK but h𒉰ave a bit of mushy wobble to them, and the paging buttons could do with being just a tad bigger and further apart. None of these things are big problems necessarily, but none are things I’d boast about either.

Performance

Thankfully, performance is far more than another case of ‘fine’. I’ve tried other hardware audio controllers in the past and the BEACN Mix Create is the first one to actually impress me. Unlike the 澳洲幸运5开奖号码历史查询:Razer Audio Mixer which I found almost more of a h🌌indrance than a help, the Mix Create did fundamentally impꦜrove my setup. 

There’s a bit of fiddling to be done when you first plug in the Mix Create, it’s just one USB cable but this isn’t a plug-and-play solution. Like with 澳洲幸运5开奖号码历史查询:the brand's mic, you’ll need the BEACN App to get started, and be warned, it’s almost certainly going to cause initial havoc with your PC. The app adds a bunch of new audio devices to Windows and will want to override your existing outputs. The more complicated your existing setup, the more painful this switch is likely to be. Particularly if you stream console games more than PC ones, this could be a huge overhaul since software from the 澳洲幸运5开奖号码历史查询:best capture cards tends to want your PC's undying loyalty as the program that runs everything. All in all, it took me a couple of hours to go from plugging in to༒ being ready to go live again.

Once you’ve got to grips with how Mix Create wants you to work, the app experience is relatively smooth. It did a good job of automatically identifying my different basic audio sources and assigning them to the correct knob, though I found it did need some guidance at identifying games in particular. Anything not automatically tagged is presented in a list in the app so you can easily drag and drop where it needs to go, so it was a simple enough task overall. You’re also in full control of which source is assigned where, even if i🦄t was automatically tagged at first, and can simply drag sources to different channels on the fly.

The main snag I noticed during setup was with non-persistent audio sources, things li🍒ke stream alerts and sound effects. An audio source only shows up in the BEACN app while it’s actively making noise, so any short bursts of sound become a mini-game to see how quickly you can grab and move them before they disappear from the list again. While I understand this may🎶 likely be a Windows oddity rather than a BEACN issue, a recent sounds list to let me tag things after the fact would be a welcome addition.

With the mini-game complete and everything assigned the experience is excellent. The knobs are responsive with no lag between a physical turn and the screen (and more important💜ly the actual♌ volume levels) updating. Sensitivity is good too, fine adjustments are possible without overshooting and it’s easy enough to crank things up too.

Two sub-mixes, one for you and one for your viewers, is the other Mix Create perk over the standard Mix and it’s a nice quality-of-life boost. Being able to control levels or mute certain sources just for my viewers brings a great level of convenience to the production as well as my experience in the room. It also offers a simple solution to🦹 streamers who want to listen𝕴 to copyrighted music while live, for example.

Should you buy the BEACN Mix Create?

 BEACN is onto something here. They’ve taken a common irritation for streamers and offered a solution that delivers on both a hardware and software side. The level of control on offer and the ease o🦋f having physical control is a great addition to any creator looking to take their production seriously.

It’s not without flaws, there are little annoyances and places for improvement dotted about but the overall experience is strong. It’s not the first thing I’d invest in if you’re looking for the 澳洲幸运5开奖号码历史查询:best streaming gear, but if you’ve already got one of the 澳洲幸运5开奖号码历史查询:best microphones for streaming and a 澳洲幸运5开奖号码历史查询:Stream Deck, then the BEA💖CN Mix Create is well worth looking at.

How we tested the BEACN Mix Create

I added the BEACN Miꩵx Create and the BEACN Mic into my livestream setup for a couple of weeks. It was used to completely control my desktop audio both while gaming, streaming on Twitch, and for general day to day use.

I let the BEAꩵCN App route sour🍨ces initially to see how far it could get on its own before manually assigning and tracking sources.

Getting set to take Twitch by storm? Check out the 澳洲幸运5开奖号码历史查询:best webcams, the 澳洲幸运5开奖号码历史查询:best ring lights for streaming, and the 澳洲幸运5开奖号码历史查询:best green screens.

The Split Pad series offers Joy-Con like attachment to the main handheld tablet, with the extra benefits of a more ergonomic design, remappable back buttons, and even a handy turbo feature. There are two versions to consider, though - the 澳洲幸运5开奖号码历史查询:Hori Split Pad Pro and the 澳洲幸运5开奖号码历史查询:Hori Split Pad Compact. 

As the name would suggest, the Compact model takes everything the Pro does (at least at a feature level) and shrinks it down into a smaller footprint. That brings it more inline with the majority of 澳洲幸运5开奖号码历史查询:Nintendo Switch controllers out there. However, there's more to consider in this equation. We&aposꩵ;ve had our hands on both versions for the last couple of months, testing and comparing to see which Joy-Con alternati💯ve you should buy. 

In short, we'd recommend the Hori Split Pad Pro for ཧits additional comfort features and more satisfying feel. That verdict comes after weeks of weighing cost, comfort, controls, design, and compatibility to find the victor. That's not to say everyone will be best served by the Pro, though, and you'll find our full breakdown of each model's pros and cons just below. 

Hori Split Pad Pro vs Compact: Price

Both the Hori Split Pad Pro and Compact sit under $50 / £50 when buying the controllers by themselves. However, the Pro model has a s♏lightly cheaper price in the UK at £39.99. You're paying the same whichever version you buy in the US, unless you opt for the full Attachment Set, which includes a centrepiece for use with a docked system. Considerin🅺g the benefits below, the Pro offers far greater value for money than the Compact, even when at the same $49.99 MSRP in the US. 

Hori Split Pad Pro vs Compact: Comfort

There's no getting around it, the Hori Split Pad Pro is far more comfortable than the Compꦬact. The larger size and chunkier grips makes for a more ergonomically-minded form factor straight off the bat, allowing the hands to gently cradle the༒ handheld system in the palm. The Split Pad Compact does widen out at the base, allowing for a more comfortable grip than a Joy-Con, but the squared off design and lack of legs mean it's not as naturally relaxed in the hand. 

On top of that, the Split Pad Pr🅺o has a rougher texture running along the back of each controller. With diamond ridges in the plastic itself, there's far greater grip than the slightly bobbled plastic on the Compact model. 

Around the front, by nature of its size, the Pro version carries taller, slightly larᩚᩚᩚᩚᩚᩚ⁤⁤⁤⁤ᩚ⁤⁤⁤⁤ᩚ⁤⁤⁤⁤ᩚ𒀱ᩚᩚᩚger face buttons than the Compact version. In our testing, we found that this did make for a more comfortable experience overall, with a satisfying button feel and plenty of space to navigate the button array. However, young children will likely get on with the reduced siz😼e of the Compact better.

Similarly, the thumbsticks on the Pro have a larger diameter with a taller stem. While that generally makes them more comfortable to use, and easier to wield in more precise gameplay scen♔arios, the thumb does need to travel further to swap to d-pad or face button controls. Overall, we preferred the experience of the Pro's thumbsticks, though it should be noted that the grippy texture present on the Compact's version allows for more controlled movement.

The Hori Split🍷 Pad Pro offers greater comfort overall, tho🐻ugh those buying for small children will prefer the reduced thumbstick height and smaller face buttons of the Compact.

Hori Split Pad Pro vs Compact: Controls

With both models offering the same full control scheme layout, there's very little difference in the functionality of both the Pro and Compact. However, the implementation of the face buttons, d-pad, and programmable back buttons does differ between the two models. While the fully fledged Hori Split Pad Pro offers a snappy response in its ABXY and d-pad controls, thanks to the larger size and longer travel distan𒀰ce, the Compact's options feel a little mushy under the hand. This was one of the first things we noticed during our testing, and it certainly makes for a different experience overall. While both feel responsive, the Pro is considerably snappier. 

Both controllers do offer excellent thumbsticks, though, with far greater precision and accuracy compared to the Joy-Con. These have the resistance and speed of something more akin to the 澳洲幸运5开奖号码历史查询:Nintendo Switch Pro Controller. As menti🔯oned above, the additional height on the Pro model can add a sliver of additional time moving between thumbsticks and buttons, but it also provides a greater sense of control overall.

The only other difference between the two control schemes is the back buttons. While these clickers sit slightly away from the main body of the Pro model, they are in-line with the main Compact chassis. That means there's far less travel and more of a chance of accidental presses. We were regularly hitting these back buttons by mistake in testing, whereas the Pro version was nicely position🐽ed and ready to hit exactly when needed.

Both the Pro and Compact offer the option to map these back buttons to a wide range of commands, as well as assign a turbo function to certain inputs. In both cas💯es, this is quick and easy to set up via two dedicated clickers at the bottom of each gamepad.

Hori Split Pad Pro vs Compact: Design

Depending on how you want your Switch to look, the design category might be the Hori Split Pad Pro's downfall. The extra heft required to make a controller this comfortable and tactile means the Pro model dramatically changes the look and feel of your handheld overall. This is a bulky device, significantly adding to the device's footprint and creating a chunky bulbous aesthetic. By contrast, the square design of the Compact is far more in keeping with the ethos of the Switch itself. It's far more streamlined and keeps the footprint similar to that of a set of Joy-Con. While neither the Pro or Compact will fit into a standard clamshell 澳洲幸运5开奖号码历史查询:Nintendo Switch case, it is easier ෴to transport the Compact model in a separate backpack pocket. 

Aside from physical form factor, though, the Hori Split Pad Pro does offer a wider range of colorways and more choice between franchises if you're opting for a special edition. At the time of w♕riting, the Pro comes in black, blue, and red, with special editions spanning Pokemon, Pac-Man, Mega Man, and Sonic in a variety of different character decals. The Compact is only available in red or gray, with only two special edition options, both of them Pokemon. 

Still, both controllers are built to a high🌳 quality. Ther🍃e's a solid, durable plastic chassis keeping each one scuff-free and save, with no wobble or flex in the rail sliders. 

Hori Split Pad Pro vs Compact: Compatibility

Neither the Hori Split Pad Pro nor the Compact allow for a wireless connection. That means you won't be able to split these controllers up for separate use across multiplayer sessions. However, the Pro does take the edge here if you're willing to pay a little extra. While the Compact will only work when directly attached to the Nintendo Switch system, the Pro is also available🤪 in an Attachme🅠nt Set. This package includes a central panel to be slotted in between each controller, which can then be connected to a docked system via USB-A. 

Hori Split Pad Pro vs 🐽Compact: which should you buy?

We'd recommend the vast majority of players buy the Hori Split Pad Pro over the Compact model. Prices are about the same (if slightly cheaper in the UK), and yo🍸u&apᩚᩚᩚᩚᩚᩚ⁤⁤⁤⁤ᩚ⁤⁤⁤⁤ᩚ⁤⁤⁤⁤ᩚ𒀱ᩚᩚᩚos;re getting a far more comfortable form factor, better control scheme, and better button feel overall, more aesthetic choice, and the option to use the device with a docked console should you opt for the Attachment Set. The Compact does have its audience, though. Younger children will likely find the slightly smaller face buttons and reduced footprint much easier to navigate. Plus, those looking to keep the slick, streamlined design of the Switch will likely prefer the square shape of the Compact as well. 

Buy the Hori Split Pad Pro if:

Buy the Hori Split Pad Compact If:

Of course, we're also rounding up plenty more accessories. You can find all the 澳洲幸运5开奖号码历史查询:best Nintendo Switch chargers and the 澳洲幸运5开奖号码历史查询:best Nintendo Switch headsets right here. For more storage, we'd also recommend checking out the 澳洲幸运5开奖号码历史查询:best Nintendo Switch SD cards on the market as well. 

That's why I've listed all of the best Star Wars merch unveiled during the event below. 2023 had a very good showing - whether it was an unexpected but awesome replica, some of Hasbro's best action figures, and even new 澳洲幸运5开奖号码历史查询:Star Wars board games, fans ate well. Mark my words, many of these products will find their way onto 澳洲幸运5开奖号码历史查询:Star Wars gifts wishlists before long.

Must-have Black Series and Vintage Collection figures, including the best Darth Vader

The Hasbro panel showed off a lot of awesome Star Wars merch that fans went wild for, ranging from Return of the Jedi throwbacks to Mando-era favorites. As I mentioned in my panel roundup, that included 澳洲幸运5开奖号码历史查询:what migh༒t b🏅e the best Darth Vader action figure. Although it seems like any other Vader model at first glance, it features a removable helmet that comes away in three parts - just like the movie. A hand can also be removed to sඣhow broken wires underneath, as if it's just been slashed off by Luke in his rage. That makes it the most versatile of the Vaders we've had before now, so if you wanted the ultimate figure of the Sith Lord at the Black Series six-inch scale, this could be it. You can preorder it ahead of launch in August from Hasbro Pulse / .

There's no denying how incredible the Force ghost trio is, either. These figures ( or ) are clad in stranꦓge, translucent robes that give them an otherworldly look exactly like the films. The new head sculpts are eerily accurate, too.

The same is true of t🐓he new Luke from the end of Return of the Jedi, not to mention a fresh multi-pack featuring beloved backgrou🐓nd characters such as Squid Head from Jabba's barge. (Speaking of Jabba, he got his first new figure since 2014… and it's suitably epic.)

It wasn't just about Return of the Jedi toys, though; the Mandalorian era got plenty of love too. While I was excited about Cad Bane's Black Series upgrade (the bounty hunter is one of my favorite Star Wars characters, so that's a given) and the addition of Dok-Ondar from the Galaxy's Edge Disney parks got me hyped, the biggest fuss was made over Mando's N1 starfighter from The Vintage Collection. This is a surprisingly intricate model with oodles of detail bꦉeneath the missing panels, and it comes with a three-inch Din Djarin packing most of the accessories he's used throughout the show's run. It's / from Hasbro Pulse.

Animatronic Chopper is all kinds of sassy

With the Ahsoka series becoming an impromptu Star Wars: Rebels reunion, grumpyඣ droid Chopper is along for the ride. And that means merch like this animatronic toy from Hasbro is also on the way.

Although it🙈's not full-sizಞe (which is fair enough, because otherwise, it'd be as tall as your average trash can), it's got more than 40 sound and movement combinations. As per Hasbro's animatronic LOLA, Chatter Back Chopper also responds to background noises and can be posed in various positions.

I got a chance to see Chatte𓂃r Back Chopper in action, and it really captures the personality of the galaxy&a𓂃pos;s sassiest droid. Its arms wave around manically, it frantically wobbles from side to side whilst nattering at you, and offers spot-on sound effects. It even listens to what you're saying and gives a snarky comeback in droid-speak. Suffice to say, I was really quite taken with it.

A replica helmet that brings back all the feels

The Hasbro panel showed off a lot of awesome Star Wars merch that fans went wild for, ranging from Return of the Jedi throwbacks to an all-new replica. Indeed, we had the pleasure of exclusively revealing Star Wars T🎐he Black Series Ahs🌠oka's Clone Trooper helmet ahead of the Star Wars Celebration event.

I managed to see it on the show floor later that day, and it was as impressive in person as it looks in promo shots. That weathering is next-level, vastly improving on the good but plain Clone Trooper helmet that was unveiled last year. In fact, I'd say it's on par with the excellent 澳洲幸运5开奖号码历史查询:Black Series Bo-Katan helmet thanks to the convincing paintwork.

Lego offers eye-catching dioramas and a Ultimate Collector Series update

Just ahead of Star Wars Celebration, Lego dropped a raft of new kits based on Return of the Jedi - the 澳洲幸运5开奖号码历史查询:UCS X-Wing and Returnౠ of the Jedi dioramas. These adult-focused packs recreate some of the movie's most iconic moments, and one of the saga's most iconic ships.

Both the Endor Speeder Chase and Emperor's Throne Room kits follow the tradition laid down by some of the best 澳洲幸运5开奖号码历史查询:Lego Star Wars sets by turning a memorable scene into a bricky diorama complete with a display stand and quote. That - and the fact that they don't have too many pieces - makes them perfect for anyone getting back into Lego as a grown-up. They don't take up too much space on your shelf but are incredibly eye-catching in-person (particularly the Speeder Bike Chase), so these should be fine a🥀dditions to your collection.

The new X-Wing is where it's really at, though. Despite being a lot more expensive (as is the way for these super-detailed Ultimate Collector Series kits), it's much bigger than the previous version and feels more screen-accurate. This is the biggest X-Wing Lego's ever made too, but not so massive you'll struggle to store it, so it's a suitable tribute if you're a fan💯 of the Rebellion's workhorse starfighter.

Bad Batch season 2 gets the Black Series treatment

The show's second season may have wrapped up, but Star Wars Celebration kept that train rolling thanks to the reveal of Black Series action figures based on thos✱e episodes. In other words, Clone Force 99 has had a revamp that brings them in line with their mercenary appearance, including Omega and her bow.

As with previous Bad Batch drops, they all have a more realistic look befitting The Black Series. It remains a novelty to seeꦐ what these animated characters would be like in 'real' life, and when combined wi𝔉th a very crisp paint job and really nice head sculpts, they're some of the nicer figures I saw while going around the Hasbro show floor.

Unfortunately, Crosshair🍸 isn't included within this set. Perhaps we'll see him a little down the line along with characters like Hemlock, Phee, Cid, Rex, or the proto-Stormtroopers that have started to make an appearance recently.

What we did get was a troop builder Clone Commando figure. These soldiers have be🌌en luꦑrking in the background for quite some time on The Bad Batch, so it's cool to get one here with all the accessories you'd expect from this range.

Things get dark for the High Republic

If you've not kept up with the High Republic ౠbook series, you need to remedy that asap - it's a genuinely fascinating new story set over a century before Episode 1, back when the Jedi were at th♔eir peak. A new Phase was just announced that takes us back to the characters who started it all, continuing a story that was left in a dark place.

This wave is called 'Trials of the Jedi' and will begin at the end of 2023, picking up the conflict with the Nihil pirates around a year after they destroyed Starlight Beacon. Things look pretty grim for the guardians of peace and justice as a result - the Nihil have essentially won. As such, it seems like this will be a story of the Jedi trying to come back from the brink. Maybe this is the beginning of the descent that leads them into the more dogmatic, restrictive approach of the prequel era? It'd certainly make sense, what with a book character turning up in a new show set a few decades later (as revealed at Celebration, The Acolyte will feature Vern🌺estra Rwoh in live action).

Honey, I shrunk the Funko

The company most famous for its bobbleheads had a quieter Star Wars Celebration, but there were still some cool announcements on tap. Along with a brand-new card game called Star Wars Rivals (which we were able to 澳洲幸运5开奖号码历史查询:exclusively reveal, luckily 𝔉enough), Funko offered 'Bitty Pops' that shrink those figure🐲s down to teeny display versions. 

For starters, Star Wars Rivals is a battle between iconic characters as you struggle to take territory using your hero or villains' unique abilities. To an extent, it's reminiscent of the 澳洲幸运5开奖号码历史查询:Funkoverse Strategy Game series in that it can beඣ added to w𒐪ith character booster packs from every era.

As for the Bitty Pops, these come in packs of four that get you three named and one random figure. These are all based on A New Hope, so ex෴pect characters like farmboy Luke, Han, Greedo, Obi-Wan, and Darth Vader.

Jazwares recreates the Battle of Endor

Remember those old starship action figures we used to get back in the '90s and early 2000s? Jazwares sure does, and the company is killing it with these Micro Ga🎐laxy Squadrons - they may as well be spiritual successors. During its panel at Star Wars Celebration, the company pulled bacꦯk the curtain on Series V with a whole load of new Star Wars merch covering every era.

In spite of there being some very cool ships from the prequel and sequel eras, the best offerings were dedicated to Return of the Jedi. This ran the ꦺgamut of a Battle of Endor Millennium 𝓀Falcon (complete with a missing radar dish after it's knocked off in the second Death Star) to an Amazon-exclusive Endor AT-AT that's spattered with mud from the forest world. 

I managed to take a look at these while wandering the show floor, and they're just like those old Action Fleet toys. For fellow 'ꦏ90s kids, that's a real draw.

Young Jedi Adventures has adorable toys for young Padawans

The upcoming preschool Star Wars show looks unbelievably cute, and it is o🧔f course getting a wealth of new toys.

Besides chunky little acti💛on figures that go with speeders for your kids to zoom around with, the range includes a sizable temple playhouse that reminds me of those castle or Ghostbuster firehouse sets many of us had as youngsters - there are multiple 'rooms' and a bisected design for easy access.

These all land 'summer 2023', so a short while after the series starts streaming on May 4. Far enough away for your🐻 kids to have chosen a favorite character, in other words.

And now... Indiana Jones?

OK, so it's not Star Wars… but it is Lucasfilm, and that means we got a good look at upcoming Indiana Jones action figures during Star Wars Celebration. Aside from an Indy-based on his first appearance in Raiders of the Lost Ark (including the golden idol and a plinth to put it on), most of these were based on its prequ✅el, Temple of Doom.

Along with💃 multiple versions of Indiana Jones (such as his rugged look on the rope bridge and his shirtless, hypnotized costume deep underground), we're also getting a spot-on rendition of Short Round. This comes complete with a soft-goods coat and multiple hats. All of these have spot-on renditions of the actors who p🍰layed those roles, and it's surprising to see how good they are up close.

We got a better look at Dial of Destiny figures, too. An older Indy built from the ground up was shown off with a ton of accessor🙈ies, and he's being joined by his god-daughter - played by Phoebe Waller-Bridge - with a head sculpt that looks scarily like the actor. We didn't manage to see an action figure version of Mads Mikkleson's villain, but that is apparently on the way too in thꦕe not-so-distant future.

Want some present ideas? Don't miss these 澳洲幸运5开奖号码历史查询:gifts for gamers, or the ultimate 澳洲幸运5开奖号码历史查询:Disney gifts - they range from toys to some of the 澳洲幸运5开奖号码历史查询:best board games.

The only thing holding the Split Pad Pro back in those early days was the fact that it was limited to h♛andheld-only use. Now we've got the Attachment Set, a package that ships both the Split Pad Pro contr🐷ollers and a wired attachment to cable up to your dock for the big-screen treatment. 

At $79.99 / £69.99 for the full set (the controllers by themselves come in at $49.99 / £39.99 day to day), this is a purchase on par with a new set of Nintendo clickers - if slightly higher than the official set during sales. With a few features removed, but a far more ergonomic form factor, I took the Hori Split Pad Pro Attachment set out for a spin to see whether it can truly shine as one of the 澳洲幸运5开奖号码历史查询:best Nintendo Switch controllers out there.

Design

• Far more comfortable to play in handheld mode
• Larger form factor means greater precision
• Doesn't fit the majority of Switch cases

The Hori Split Pad Pro is all about its design. While it may be dropping a few core features from the Joy-Con, and doesn't particularly prioritize a sp🥀eedy performance, far greater emphasis has been placed on making it as comfortable as possible. Switching from the Joy-Con to the Split Pad Pro for the first time was like sitting down after a long day standing. That instant relief was palpable. That comfort all comes down to the larg♈er form factor, with real grips (complete with textured surface), legs, full-sized controls, and a chunkier build. 

That meant I wasn't crowded around 🎐tiny buttons for hours on end, I could comfortably sit back and relax as the full device rested naturally in my palms. The two thumbsticks both also feel much easier to control. Whereas I previously played Doom on Switch out of necessity for testing, I actually came to enjoy FPS genres on the platform with this enhanced support. Larger bumpers and triggers meant I could reliably hit more reflex-demanding movements, and aiming and shooting both felt all the more satisfying.

This extends to the face buttons themselves. Hori's don't have that slightly sharp edge to them like the Joy-Con. Anyone who plays Mario Kart 8 Deluxe will recognize Joy-Con Thumb, a neat circular indentation on the skin after a particularly fraught race. That's completely go✨ne here, with much softer and slightly rounded edges on this se🔯t of clickers.

Everything els🐼e feels solid and secure, a dense plastic material houses the full chassis and is surprisingly fingerprint and smudge resistant in everyday use. Each controller glides into the side rails smoothly, with that classic click sound ringing through crisp as ever. Similarly, the attachment piece carries equally premium rails, which never flexed or wobbled when connecting or detaching.

I received﷽ the black Hori Split Pad Pro, with red accents across lettering and underneath the thumbstick. However, there's a wide variety of different colorways to choose from, so you can tailor your experience to your favorite franchise as well. As for my more subtle model, I was pleased with the low profile look - this is a chunky device so anything the aesthetic design can do to tone things down is a blessing.

That said, the larger footprint might not be such a benefit if you're all about style. A very well Switch-versed visitor took one look at my unit on the table and exclaimed 'what is that?' It certainly kills that sleek Nintendo Switch vibe, with its bulbous architecture and heft but I'm happy to sacrifice looks for this comfort. Portability is another question. Your console will no longer fit into a 澳洲幸运5开奖号码历史查询:Nintendo Switch case with the Split Pad Pro controllers attached (though it will slot into a dock). That meant I was transporting the controllers loose in a🐼 backpack as they are also too large to fit into accessory pouches on the majority of clamshell carriers.

Features

• Assignable back paddles are nice to have
• Turbo controls work flawlessly with three different speeds
• No rumble, NFC, or wireless connection

It's true, the Hori Split Pad Pro is a little light on features. Sacrificing a few of the Joy-Cons' most impressive additional extras, these clickers aren't for those looking to draw the most immersive experience out of their console. There's no HD rumble, which I did start to miss in Pokemon Legends: Arceus, no NFC, and no wireless connection. These gamepads will only work when connected directly to the Nintendo Switch system itself, or via the included attachment accessory. No more passing controllers among friends or motion control. The Split Pad Pro isn't a full Joy-Con replacement, then. You'll need the real deal if you're going to be taking up other 澳洲幸运5开奖号码历史查询:Nintendo Switch accessories like 澳洲幸运5开奖号码历史查询:Ring Fit Adventure, or playing Switch Sports, for example.

However, you are picking up an alternative set of features that might be more applicable to♚ your playstyle. There are two back paddle buttons here, which can be remapped quickly and easily on the controller itself using the dedicated Assign button on each side. 

You'll be able to rema♐p functions from all buttons barring home, +/-, turbo, and screenshot to these back paddles simply by holding the Assign button and the function of your choosing at the same time. I managed to switch things up on the left controller immediately, but the right took a little more convincing. For some reason, I couldn't quite get a reliable remap without some fiddling and multiple tries on the right controller, though always got there in the end.

The turbo function takes me right back to my MadCatz PS2 days, but things have progressed since then. Assigning the turbo function is just as simple as remapping, and🌺 worked straight out of the box every time. P𒁃lus, you can choose between three different speeds for your repeat presses as well.

The attachment piece also adds a handy suite of volume and mic mute controls into the mix, but that's largely your lot. If you're a fan of FPS and online shooters, these turbo and remapping functions are going to work a lot harder for you, and are a worthy trade-off for wireless functionality, rumble, and motion controls. However, it's 🔯well worth checking your collection before buying - if you're relying on Joy-Con specific features you'd be better off sticking with the OGs.

Performance

• More precise, satisfying thumb sticks than Joy-Con
• Larger triggers offer a better FPS experience
• Back paddles might not see too much use depending on genre

With the additional size and extra spacing, it's no wonder the Hori Split Pad Pro feels great to use. However, everything is also nicely responsive with satisfying snaps and clicks, and just the right🍎 amount of resistance behind the d-pad and thumbsticks. While compatible with PC (via the attachment), it's not going to be fast enough f𒉰or competitive play, but its main Nintendo Switch audience will be well served by the performance here.

Those roomier triggers make aiming and shooting far more reliable and precise across Fortnite and Doom, but even smaller actions like sprinting in Dragon Quest: Builders 2 felt more responsive. That accuracy is carried through to the thumbsticks. Joy-Con sticks have always felt particularly inaccurate to me, so I was pleased to find that the Hori feels like the more precise 澳洲幸运5开奖号码历史查询:Pro controller's inputs. My aim and reactions were far tighter in Pokemon Legends Arceu🏅s, and quickly navigating more fiddly song menus in Fuser was far easier. 

The majority of players might not see much action out of turbo mode and the remappable back buttons. I certainly found them handy for Fortnite and dabbled in Mario Kart 8 Deluxe and Doom, but the vast majority of titles I used didn't require such grand control sch💯emes. Certainly, first-party Nintendo Switch games aren't going to require this level of extra finesse.

The attachment works exactly as you would expect, wiring straight 🦩into the dock and working as a comfortable wedge between the two controller sides. This was never finicky, and everything connected just as it should during quicker setups.

Should you buy the Hori Split Pad Pro?

There's no getting around it. At $79.99 / £69.99, the Hori Split Pad Pro is expensive for what it is, especially when you're buying both 🍒the side controllers and attachment piece together. However, it's well worth investing in the full attachment set if you can find a good sale price. 

By themselves, the gamepads retail at around $40- $50 / £40 when taking discounts - and that's 🔴an excellent price for anyone who plays mostly handheld. I would thoroughly encourage anyone in this sit🌠uation to consider picking up the Split Pad Pro. The extra comfort, more precise controls, and all-around cozier feel makes for a far more luxurious Nintendo Switch experience, for less than the standard Joy-Con price. It's a no-brainer if, like me, you seldom plug into the TV. 

I had to force myself to play docked to test the attachment setup. Theꦆre's much better value for money in the controllers themselves than in the full attachment set, but it's certainly a viable buy if you split your time equally. It's more expensive than picking up a Pro controller, but you're covering yourself for all aspects of solo play. 

It shoul🌜d be noted that if you're looking to pick up a wad of multiplayer options, the Hori Split Pad Pro isn&🍸apos;t for you. The lack of wireless connection will shoot that idea to the ground, and I'd recommend looking into some of the cheaper, smaller 8BitDo options instead.

How we tested the Hori Split Pad Pro

I used the Hori Split Pad Pro for two weeks, using the two controllers for handheld play and hooking up to the attachment piece for docked mode. I played Doom, Dragon Quest: Builders 2 and Fortnite both handheld and docked, while also playing Pokemon Legends: Arceus, Mario Kart 8 Deluxe, and Super Mario Galaxy in handheld mode. For more information on 澳洲幸运5开奖号码历史查询:how we test controllers, check the full 澳洲幸运5开奖号码历史查询:GamesRadar+ Hardware Policy.

For more kit, we're also rounding up the 澳洲幸运5开奖号码历史查询:best Nintendo Switch chargers and the 澳洲幸运5开奖号码历史查询:best Nintendo Switch memory cards. Or, take a look at the latest 澳洲幸运5开奖号码历史查询:Nintendo Switch bundles if you're yet to get your hands on a console. 

Originally aimed at professionals, the $150 Division packs an excellent amount of storage space and a dedicated compartment for a 15.6-inch 澳洲幸运5开奖号码历史查询:gaming laptop. With customization options stretching from color to material on each panel, there's plenty of room to style to your heart's content as well. I took the Timbuk2 Division backpack for a spin to see just how well it sits next to the 澳洲幸运5开奖号码历史查询:best laptop backpacks on the market. 

The Division backpack is available at a range of retailers, though for full customization options you'll need to head 📖to the . 

Design

At its core, this is a slick and sturdy design with plenty of personalization opt🦂ions. The Timbuk2 website allows you to customize every inch of the Division backpack's aesthetic and materials, choosing from a range of colors and materials. The Cordura Canvas option gives you the widest range of hues to choose from, though, with Rain Resist, Reflective, and Tailored materials limiting things to more muted black, gray, white, and navy tones. Testing in a British March, I kne🌠w I had to opt for rain resistant materials across the majority of my creation, styling between Jet Black and White. However, I did allow myself a True Red pair of side panels in canvas to complete a Pokemon theme. 

I was impressed with the build quality on arrival. Stitching is laser tight, there are no loose ends, and zips feel solid and long-lasting. The rain resistant material certainly kept everything inside the backpack dry and safe even during a particularly heavy deluge, while the💦 bright color of the canvas kept things fun and breathable as well.

Along the back I was pleased to find some substantial padding set in four squares across the 🌳main body of the bag. Some Timbuk2 backpacks compliment this spongey material with additional padding on the straps themselves, however my model has a more slimline approach with minimal cushioning. That luxurious panelling on the main chassis was more than enough to see me through journeys of up to two or three hours at a time, though I did start to feel the pull on my shoulders on a longer five hour trek around the city. It's worth noting that I wasn't using the cross-body support strap that comes clipped to the Division backpack here, though.

You'll also find ✅two side clips to allow for expanding or restricting the depth of the backpack, though I did find it easier to keep t🅰hese unbuckled when out and about to avoid the extra fuss of unclipping everything on shorter stints.

Storage

The Division sports three pockets, a dedicated buffered laptop sleeve at the back, a large main compartment, and a smaller slip compartment at the front. Thﷺat's plenty of storage for a full setup. I was able to carry my Asus TUF Dash F15 laptop in the back laptop compartment, and was confident in the level of padding on offer. When Timbuk2 says 15-inch, they mean it - trying to wiggle anything larger into this pocket was a fruitless endeavour so if you are rocking a larger rig it's worth investing in something more substantial. 

The main pocket easily housed a set of Audeze Maxwell headphones, a Nintendo Switch in its carry case, a chunky portable charger, a 澳洲幸运5开奖号码历史查询:Genki Covert Dock, and a Hori Split Pad Pro set, with an extra slip sleeve offering the perfect spot for an iPad and smaller pockets along the front carrying an 澳洲幸运5开奖号码历史查询:MSI Clutch GM31 gaming mouse and cables. Not only is that plenty of space (✨I never maxed this thing out), but I was also particularly appreciative of the full zip. B🌳eing able to fully open this compartment meant I could reach anything at a moment's notice, whereas many laptop backpacks restrict the zip to around halfway down the pocket itself.

The front suffers a little from this restriction. While spacious, the horizontal zip at the top doesn't provide much room to wiggle a hand in, and I was fumbling blind for items. I used this compartment for easily reachable items like my keys, AirPods, and sunglasses so it was never particularly jumbled. Still, it's a tight sque♎eze.

Security

The Division does suffer a little in the 🌳security department. Those aforementioned side clips are excellent for keeping everything in the main compartment safe from prying hands, and the double zip design lends itself well to an additional lock should you need one as well. However, the main laptop sleeve only offers a single zip which means a lock isn't going to get you very far. That's disappointing - this isn't a cheap backpack and many mod🌳els in this price range are placing a greater emphasis on this safety. 

Similarly, there&apꦅos;s very little padding around the base of the bag itself. I wouldn't trust it to keep everything safe from a drop at arm level, let alone a falꦜl from a bike.

Comfort

I was impressed with the level of comfort on offer from the Division backpack. Between thick straps and generous back padding (with a breathable air mesh fabric to keep everything dry), the whole experience was far more pleasant than that of my previous Targus laptop bag. While the drop in padding on the straps themselves did present a little discomfort during longer trips as mentioned above, this was quickly remedied with the assistance of the sternum straps. Even packing the Division to its max, I never felt overly weighed do꧒wn and was surprised by the additional comfort offered by its staunch, sturdꦚy design. 

Should you buy the Timbuk2 Division backpack?

At $150, the Division isn't going to suit everyone's needs. It's a luxury customizable backpack with plenty of storage space and some thoughtful additional features as well. If your main device is 15.6-inches and you're looking for a water resistant all-in-one everyday transport solution with a little personal flair, it's an excelle🍌nt choice. There's plenty of room for everything an on-the-go PC player might need, while still keeping things low-key and as slimline as possible. However, if you've got a particularly expensive machine or you're more concerned with safety than storage options, this might not be the best option. 

For full custo🧜mization options, be sur꧑e to head to the . 

How we tested the Timbuk2 Division backpack

I used the Timbuk2 Division backpack over the course of two weeks, for everything from dog walks to cross-country trips. In that time, I was primarily transporting a 15.6-inch Asus TUF Dash F15, but also used the backpack as an everyday carry-all for shorter trips as well. For more information on how we make our recommendations, check out the full 澳洲幸运5开奖号码历史查询:GamesRadar+ Hardware Policy. 

For more storage options, we're also rounding up the 澳洲幸运5开奖号码历史查询:best Nintendo Switch carry cases. Or, to maximise your portable play, check out the 澳洲幸运5开奖号码历史查询:best mobile controllers and the 澳洲幸运5开奖号码历史查询:best gaming earbuds on the market. 

Going head to head with the 澳洲幸运5开奖号码历史查询:best ring lights on the market, the Litra Beam’s $99/£99 price point brings certain expectations. This isn’t an entry level option for a basic 澳洲幸运5开奖号码历史查询:streaming for gamers setup, Logitech themselves describe the Litra Beam as a “Premium🦩 LED Streaming Key Light” so it has a lot to live up to.

Design

At first g💜lance the Logitech Litra 🌺Beam appears to be a pretty basic bit of kit. A single 40cm long pill shaped LED bar sat on an arm of about the same size and tucked into an unassuming round base. What’s not immediately obvious when you first unbox the Litra Beam however is just how flexible it is. The more you look around the more you realise it’s packed with nifty little touches and they come together to make it an incredibly versatile option for a range of setups. 

The top of the arm rotates back and forth and there’s not one but three screw mounting points, one at the ൲end and two in the middle on both the back and bottom edges. These join with a connection that made me say “oh nice” out loud, alone in my office. Once you’ve spun the Litra Beam a few times to tighten the screw it stays tight but just keeps on turning with a secure amount of resistance. This gives you 360 degree control over which way you need the light to face without battling against slack connections or awkward arm placements. A firm twist in the other direction and it starts to unscrew as normal. Don’t ask me how it works, the answer might be magic and I love it.

The arm itself extends to nearly double its own height with plenty of steps in between as well. Impressively, and largely thanks to its full plastic body, the Litra Beam light itself weights just 185 grams so even with the arm fully extended and the light at a ꦦ90 degree angle it felt rock solid with no major wobbling.

All of this works together to make the Logitech Litra Beam arguably the most flexible lighting option for streamers and creatives right now. No matter your desk setup there’ll likely be a combination of mounting, height and angle that unlocks that sweet spot. Honestly, I didn’t think it wasꦑ possible to be this impressed by the design of a light.

Features and Performance

I wasn’t sure what to expect from the Logitech Litra Beam when it comes to performance. My normal streaming setup has two Elgato Key Light Airs, so moving from those to a single bar of light less than half the overall size of just one of the Airs felt like i🦹t’d be a major difference. 

It wasn’t. 

I was very pleasantly surprised by both how much light the Litra Beam threw out and how nice the quality of that light was. Logitech will tell you that’s down to their ‘TrueSoft technology', I’m not entirely ♌sure what that is in reality but I’m happy to say it works. The Litra Beam delivered soft, even lighting across my face and my viewers were having to look pretty closely to find major differences to my usual lighting. Considering my dual Air setup will 🙈set you back more than two and half times as much money, that’s rather impressive.

I mounted the Litra Beam above my camera, directly in front and slightly above me. Connected to my PC via USB the Litra Beam was limited to a maximum brightness of just 58% but this was enough to propඣerly light my face so wasn’t an issue for my use case. I noticed this number did fluctuate a little and changed with different USB ports and cables, so your mileage may vary but if you want full beans power you’ll need to supply your own 5V 1.4A plug. I found there was some drop off around the sides of my head but nothing too extreme or even particularly noticeable unless you were scrutinising like I was. The impressively wide 2700-6500K colour temperature range made it easy to dial in a pleasant and natural look and I had no issue with flickering, even at different refresh rates.

The Logitech Litra Beam features onboard controls for power, brightness and colour temperature or if you’re plugged in via USB or connected with Bluetooth you can use the ﷽Logitech G Hub desktop app to control 𝄹the Litra Beam too. It’s worth noting the app gives you far finer control over settings down to individual percentage points, with the onboard buttons limited to just 4 step settings each. It’s a shame there’s no mobile app too but G Hub was responsive and there’s some hotkey support available there, though no integration with devices like the Elgato Stream Deck.

Should you buy the Logitech Litra Beam?

Logitech have pretty much nailed it 🀅with the Litra Beam. For a $99/£99 option it punches well above its weight to deliver results that were comp💧arable with setups well above that price point.

Its hugely flexible stand and strong lighting performance make this an appealing option to a wide range of buyers. Livestreamers and creatives will see great results for styled out facecams and a modern, understated aesthetic means the Litra Beam will look at home in even🎃 the most corporate of offices for those video meetings too.

How we tested the Logitech Litra Beam

I used the Logitech Litra Beam in my livestreaming setup instead of my regular pair of Elgato Key Light Airs. The Litra Beam was mounted into the included stand at maximum height and connected to my PC via the included USB cable. For more information on how we make our recommendations, check out the full 澳洲幸运5开奖号码历史查询:GamesRadar+ Hardware Policy. 

We're also keeping you up to date on all the 澳洲幸运5开奖号码历史查询:best microphones for streaming and the 澳洲幸运5开奖号码历史查询:best green screens for a more professional look. Or, check out the 澳洲幸运5开奖号码历史查询:best gaming chairs for even more accessories. 

Born on the back of a £150,000 crowdfunding campaign, the S variant of Loupedeck’s macro pad retains all of the potential of the original Live in a new, slimmed down package. The smaller unit comes with a smaller price tag too, but does this $189/£179 pad size up to the competition and how does it stack up in a 澳洲幸运5开奖号码历史查询:streaming for gamers setup?

Design

There’s a familiar feeling to the Loupedeck Live S, particularly for anyone who spent time with the original. Despite the new form factor, a lot of the original elements of the Live remain and you’d be forgiven for mistaking the two at a quick glance. The Live S retains the same width and thickness of its predecessor but loses just over a centimetre top to bottom. It’s not a huge amount on paper, but it makes a surprising difference in reality and the whole unit feels notably smaller on your desk. Across the board metal has been replaced by plastic which 𝔉is a shame, but probably a fai🍃r tradeoff for the new lower price.

A majority of the input options have carried over too. The round physical buttons are the same size as before, but we’re down to half the amount and the backlit numbers have been replace🌠d with circles. Each button features a pleasantly tactile click and a new grippier texture on top.

The small improvements carry over to the dials too but here the change is far more impactful. Like with the faceplate, the metal is gone in favour of a rubberised finish and it m꧟akes a world of dif🔜ference for the better. Where with the original Loupedeck Live your fingers could slip across the smooth metal surface of a dial without spinning it, the new finish on the Loupedeck Live S means everything sticks confidently even with a minimum of pressure. There’s just two dials this time around but honestly I didn’t miss the other four. Even if I had six simultaneous uses for the dials, Loupedeck’s software makes it easy enough to change dial actions on the fly.

While the total size of the touchscreen grid has remained virtually the same, the Loupedeck Live S introduces a refreshed layout. The grid is🌠 now 15 buttons, up from 12, and comes at the expense of the two side strips that worked in tandem with the dials. Thankfully Loupedeck have a clever solution on the software side, any movement on the dial temporarily take🍨s over the adjacent square to show you what you’re changing or you can sacrifice these squares to display the data permanently. Well played, Loupedeck.

The detachable stand is a little flimsy for my liking but it’s an improvement from the one included with the Live. Yes it does the job, but it doesn’t match the quality of the rest of the offering and I lived in constant fear of snapping it when clipping or unclipping it. The included USB-C cable has grown to 2m rather than the paltry ꦫ1m offering of the Live. It’s still a quality braided cable and the included USB-C to USB-A adapter is a nice tou﷽ch.

Features and Performance

The Loupedeck Live S is more of an evolution than a revolution and the hands-on experience reflects that. As someone who’s used an Elgato Stream Deck consistently for the past six years and spent plenty of time with the Loupedeck Live, I find using a macro pad like this to be pretty second nature. That said however, the Loupedeck offers some unique considerations when it comesꦺ to building it into a workflow.

The grid of the Live S retains the crisp, bright touchscreens of the original Loupedeck Live and I was impressed at how vibrant the colours were when I applied a few icon packs from the marketplace. The haptic feedback has been refined and is a far more pleasant bu🎐zz than before and the duration can now be configured which I appreciated as well. However it’s still just not that easy to notice the vibration unless you actively hold your finger on the button. This is the downside of a touchscreen over a physical button and while I don’t have a better solution (sorry Loupedeck R&D Team), the ha🀅ptics end up being more of an audio cue. It’s a subtle cue at that so I did tend to second guess if I’d triggered what I intended. 

Loupedeck’s software offers plenty of choice when it comes to setting up and customising your 💞Live S with a growing marketplace of plugins and integrations. It’s not as refined or easy to use as Elgato’s software, but it gets the job done without too much fuss. The interface can be a little daunting at first but the Loupedeck comes with some pre-installed profiles with m💖ore presets available in the marketplace so you’ve always got a starting point to work from. 

Native Adobe Creative Suite apps are still the highlight here and coupled with a dynamic mode that switches the active set of actions based on whichever app you’re in, the Loupedeck Live S becomes a seamless extension of your mouse and keyboard, great for those who struggle with remembering Photoshops million and one shortcuts. I did notice there’s now paid marketplace content alongside free items, something you don’t find with the Elgato store which is all inclusive. It’ll be interesting to see what plugi🐎ns remain free to access and what gets paywalled, as that could be a slippery slope for the ecosystem as a whole.

Through my testing I found the Loupedeck Live S more helpful as an offline productivity tool than as a live stream sidekick. The touchscreen grid just doesn’t lend itself as well to quickly jumping for a clip or mute button in the same way a physical button like you find on a Stream Deck does. It’s too easy to accidentally miss the target and fire of✱f the wrong action. That said, for 🐷slower paced livestreamers looking for simple scene switching the Loupedeck Live S will do a great job, it’s all a matter of personal taste.

Should you buy the Loupedeck Live S?

The Loupedeck Live S builds on the solid foundation laid down by the original Loup🧸edeck Live and has been refined into a helpful little desk companion. Build quality is still strong and incremental imཧprovements in other areas like the haptic feedback show the brand is continuing to head in the right direction.

At $189/£179 it’s a smaller, cheaper option than the 澳洲幸运5开奖号码历史查询:Elgato Stream Deck+ and has p🎃lenty to offer creatives, coders anಌd streamers alike.

How we tested the Loupedeck Live S

 I swapped out my 澳洲幸运5开奖号码历史查询:Elgato Stream Deck and tried to replicate my normal workflows using the Loupedeck Live🌃 S instead. This included controlling my Twitch stream through OBS as well as some offline tasks like quality of life controls in Windows and shortcuts in Photoshop and Premiere Pro. 

We're also rounding up all the 澳洲幸运5开奖号码历史查询:best webcams and the 澳洲幸运5开奖号码历史查询:best microphones for streaming as well. For more streaming gadgets, check out the 澳洲幸运5开奖号码历史查询:best ring lights and the 澳洲幸运5开奖号码历史查询:best green screens for that professional finish. 

Previous iterations of Elgato’s frankly excellent 澳洲幸运5开奖号码历史查询:Stream Deck simply played 🦄around with size and form factor. If it ain’t broke, don’t fix it after all but the Stream Deck + heads in a new direction. It’s a new twist on the🐻 formula and arrives with a higher $199.99/£209.99 price point to match.

Design & features

Elgato is ♏mixing it up with the Stream Deck + and offering creators two new ways to interact with their setup. The classic Stream Deck LCD๊ buttons remain, but now they’ve been joined by two newcomers, a touch bar, and four clickable dials.

Even beyond the new range of inputs, there are a few notable design changes between the original Stream Deck and the Stream Deck +. It’s certainly plus-sized, nearly twice as large in every direction and like the Stream Deck MK2 the flexibility of a removal sta🙈nd is gone in favour of a more robust fixed position. The viewing angle is bang on though and the input layout feels a little less congested than a regular Stream Deck with more room to breathe between buttons and dials.

Each of the eight buttons on the Deck + retains Elgato’s customisable LCD screen and they’ve had a growth spurt too, now about 15% larger with noticeably sharper displays. While this doesn’t sound like a lot on paper, I was surprised at how small the standard Stream Deck keys sud꧂denly felt in comparison, particularly when running both devices side by side in my setup. They’re just as tactile as previous Strea♈m Decks with the same rubberised feel, bright screens, and satisfying muted click. 

Jumping to the bottom row you’ll find four metal dials, s🍸lightly recessed into the face and pleasantly textured on the sides. My only minor gripe with the design is a lack of backlighting behind these dials. In a dark room, they disappear a bit, particularly with the screens above shining bright so a little LED ring around the base of each would have been a nice touch. These dials sit below another impressively sharp screen, this time a 4.25in/10.8cm touch-sensitive bar that offꦺers both information on your dials and an additional way to interact.

🔴Overall the Stream Deck + feels like it’s divided neatly into four distinct columns. The eight buttons are asymmetrically spaced to be divided into pa💎irs rather than a uniform grid. Each pair is perfectly aligned with a dial below, which in turn talks to its own quarter of the touch screen. It’s all very organised.

Performance

I’m not going to hang on the buttons for too long🌌, barring a size change they function exactly as those on the original Stream Deck. They’re pleasing to use and with around 0.20in/5mm of travel, they’re safe from accidental clicks, ev🎉en without looking.

It’s the touch bar and dials where things get interesting on the Stream Deck +. They mark the first time Elgato has offered a new way to interact with a Stream Deck (if we ignore the fancy footwork needed for the Stream Deck Pedal) and it’s a brilliant first showing. Elgato saജys the force needed to rotate one of the stepped dials has been "finely tuned for optimal input speed" and it’s hard to argue with them. Coupled with the grippy machined surface my fingers never slipped and the steps are just the right distance apart to confidently allow single-step adjustments without overshooting.

The touch bar is responsive and achieves a surprising amount thanks to a number of clever ways you can interact with it. As well as offering dynamic information about the dial beneath, single taps and long touches🎐 act as unique input methods too, and swiping across the bar will change pages of commands. Combined with customisation either per quarter or for the background as a whole, it all comes together as a really seamless experience where everything does what you’d expect and hope it to do.

Controlled by the same intuitive drag-and-drop software as previous iterations, the Stream Deck + adds new functionality in the form of Dial Stacks. These ಌare super clever and great to use, particularly when paired with Elgato’s other gear. An update to the Camera Hub app puts full control of every camera setting inside these dials with a press o𓂃f the dial scrolling between each setting. Twist, click, twist, click, twist, done. Then the touch bar joins the mix, a tap here toggles between auto or manual control or a long press resets things to defaults. It all feels really natural and offers excellent, granular control on the fly.

Overall - Should you buy the Elgato Stream Deck +?

The Elgato Stream Deck + is an interesting addition to the range because it’s not really competing for the same job as its fami🥃ly members. It’s a brilliant device that, in the right setup, will open a lot of new doors when it comes to managing your stream while live. It won’t hold huge benefits for everyone though and some creators will be better placed with the more traditional button-only Stream Deck, particularly given the relatively steep $199.99/£209.99 price point of the +.

That’s not a slight on the + though, it’s just a case of having the right tool for the job. If you’re deep in Elgato’s ecosystem the Stream Deck𝄹 + is perfectly suited to controlling Facecam and Control Hub settings while keeping all the same flexibility of the origina🌊l.

How we tested the Elgato Stream Deck +

I’ve been using the original Stream Deck since 2016 and it’s become second nature at this point. Rather than replace it, the Stream Deck + was added to my setup alongside it and used for actions that didn’t feel at home previously. In addition to specific testing and exploring Elgato’s native plugin offerings for tꦍhe dials, I used the Stream Deck + for live streams and tried to incorporate new actions into my general computer workflow.

You can read more about our approach to gaming tech and products in the full 澳洲幸运5开奖号码历史查询:GamesRadar+ Hardware Policy.

Complete your streaming setup with one of the 澳洲幸运5开奖号码历史查询:best microphones for streaming, 澳洲幸运5开奖号码历史查询:best capture cards, and the 澳洲幸运5开奖号码历史查询:best webcams.

It's an excellent time to be an Xbox gamer, so finding the best Xbox gifts should be easy. Right? Well, the amount of choice can make it all overwhelming. Should you go for Oblivion Remastered, the new RPG everyone is talking about right now? And what's with that Clair Obscur game doing the rounds? Is that worth grabbing? Don't sweat it - the GamesRadar+ team and I have been hunting down presents for years now, so are ready to point you 🍨in the right direction.

There's certainly enough to choose from. The digital shelves are creaking beneath the weight of 澳洲幸运5开奖号码历史查询:gifts for gamers, and your options range from clothing to accessories. We've narrowed 🦄that list down to the very best Xbox gifts here, so there should be something to suit you regardless of who you're buying for, their age, or your budget.

Wondering why these Xbox gifts were chosen i𝓀n particular? We've been playing on Microsoft's consoles for as long as they've existed, so the team and I have only recommended presents we'd actually want to receive ourselves. I've also been sure to include items we've been hands-on with, and whenever that's not possible, the items in question have been extensively cross-checked with user reviews to make sure you're getting the best of the best.

Best Xbox gifts overall

If you're browsing for inspiration or need Xbox gifts quick, these suggestions should do the trick. Crucially, they're not as risky as games or accessories - the recipient is less likely to have them already.

Best Xbox gifts under $30

Want to keep costs low while still securing the best Xbox gifts? No problem - we've got you covered. These options make for great stocking fillers or Secret Santa presents.

Best Xbox gifts under $50

If your budget can stretch to it, these options up the ante from 'fun novelties' to 'actually dang useful.' So far as Xbox gifts go, it doesn't get much better.

Best Xbox gifts: Games

While games can make for risky Xbox gifts (it's tricky to know what someone has already), they're a homerun if you get it right. That's why I've listed the year's biggest titles below. Make sure you don't lose that order confirmation in case you need to return them, though!

Best Xbox gifts: Accessories

Little can elevate your setup like the 澳洲幸运5开奖号码历史查询:best Xbox Series X accessories, so they make top-tier Xbox gifts. To give you a better idea of what you should prioritize, we've listed a few of our favorites - from headsets to controllers.

Best Xbox gifts FAQ