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Huawei Watch D2: Price and Detailed Review

Price and Availability

The Huawei Watch D2 is available in the UK for £349.99, although it remains unavailable in the US and Australia due to Huawei’s market limitations, stemming from its continued US ban. This price places the Watch D2 in a higher range for a smartwatch, particularly one that doesn’t offer a complete suite of typical smartwatch features, but its innovative blood pressure monitoring system justifies part of the cost.

Design

The Huawei Watch D2 features a 1.82-inch AMOLED display with a resolution of 480 × 408 pixels, delivering vibrant colors and excellent clarity with a pixel density of 347 PPI. While the display is high-quality, a thinner bezel would enhance its aesthetics. The watch measures 48 × 38 mm with a thickness of 13.3 mm—making it feel quite bulky on the wrist. On the side, a rotating crown and a function button provide tactile control options, though the touchscreen is often more convenient for navigating.

The Watch D2’s premium materials ensure durability, while the strap options—Black Fluoroelastomer and White Composite Leather—provide comfort and style. The unique blood pressure airbag strip is integrated into the watch strap, adding cushioning and convenience. Additionally, the watch includes a wireless USB-A charger with a magnetic connection, ensuring easy charging.

Key Features

The standout feature of the Huawei Watch D2 is its Ambulatory Blood Pressure Monitoring (ABPM), which uses a built-in airbag within the strap to offer easy, on-demand blood pressure readings without the need for a traditional cuff. The D2 also allows for 24-hour auto-monitoring, which is useful for capturing blood pressure patterns throughout the day and night, though night-time monitoring may disturb lighter sleepers.

Additional health features include ECG analysis, heart rate monitoring, SpO2 tracking, and advanced sleep tracking with metrics for heart rate, respiratory rate, and abnormal breathing. The watch also offers sleep aids like white noise and relaxing music. Basic smartwatch functions—such as notifications, call management, and offline music playback—are included, though it lacks certain conveniences like contactless payments and support for streaming apps like Spotify or WhatsApp audio.

Performance

In testing, the Watch D2’s blood pressure monitoring proved accurate, delivering consistent readings close to known baselines. However, occasionally positioning issues caused some variability in results. Other tracking metrics, like sleep and GPS, worked smoothly and accurately. The watch’s exercise tracking capabilities performed well in various activities, with accurate GPS tracking and reliable metrics.

Battery life varies based on usage, lasting up to six days under normal conditions but decreasing with intensive monitoring.

The Huawei Watch D2 is available in the UK for £349.99, approximately equivalent to $445 USD. However, this smartwatch isn’t officially available in the United States due to Huawei’s market restrictions. The Watch D2 is also sold in China but has limited availability globally.

Final Thoughts

The Huawei Watch D2 stands out for its advanced health monitoring features, particularly blood pressure tracking, which is rare in smartwatches. While it’s a bit bulky and lacks some advanced smartwatch features, the combination of health tools and robust design makes it a compelling choice for those focused on wellness.

November 18, 2024
Huawei Nova 13: Price, Features, and Detailed Review

Design The Huawei Nova 13 boasts a sleek and elegant design with a glass back reinforced by an aluminum and silicone layer, adding both durability and visual appeal. Available in four colors—green, loading, purple, and feather black—the phone offers a selection that caters to varied style preferences.

Display Featuring a 6.7-inch OLED display with a resolution of 2412×1084, a 120Hz refresh rate, and a response rate of up to 300Hz, the Nova 13 ensures smooth scrolling and responsive interactions. The display also includes a high PWM frequency of 1440Hz, reducing eye strain during extended usage.

Camera The Nova 13 is equipped with a powerful camera system, including a 50MP main rear camera with dual optical stabilization, an 8MP ultra-wide lens, and a dedicated macro lens. The 60MP front camera offers advanced selfie features and multiple AI tools, such as expression enhancement and intelligent cropping, delivering professional-grade photos.

Battery and Charging The 5000mAh battery supports Turbo fast charging at 100W, reaching up to 50% charge in under 10 minutes—ideal for users needing rapid power-ups.

Performance and Processor Powered by the Kirin 8000 processor and 12GB of LPDDR4X RAM, the Nova 13 handles demanding apps and tasks smoothly. The device runs on HarmonyOS 4.2, providing a cohesive and integrated experience across Huawei’s ecosystem.

Memory Available in two storage options, 256GB and 512GB, the Nova 13 offers ample space and efficient performance for various needs.

Sound With stereo speakers, the Nova 13 delivers immersive audio quality for video watching and gaming.

Connectivity and Networks Advanced connectivity options include NFC, Bluetooth 5.2, and Beidou satellite technology, allowing for messaging in low-signal areas.

Sensors The device includes an under-display fingerprint sensor, alongside essential sensors like an accelerometer, compass, and ambient light sensor.

Color Options Available in four striking colors, the Nova 13 provides choices that reflect diverse tastes and lifestyles.

The Huawei Nova 13 stands out for its refined design, powerful performance, and innovative technology. With its advanced camera, fast charging, and robust connectivity options, it’s an exceptional mid-range device choice.

Conclusion

The Huawei Nova 13 is a compelling choice for those seeking a device that combines sophisticated design, robust performance, and advanced features. From its high-quality camera system and fast-charging capabilities to its vibrant OLED display and smooth performance powered by the Kirin 8000, the Nova 13 offers a well-rounded experience suitable for a range of users. Its thoughtful design and impressive specs make it one of the most attractive options in the mid-range category, offering a premium experience without the flagship price tag.

November 16, 2024
Nova 13 Pro: Price and In-Depth Review
Design
The Huawei nova 13 Pro sports a sophisticated and modern design, featuring durable glass on both the front and back, complemented by a metallic frame that adds strength and elegance. The slim edges and curved design enhance its grip, making it comfortable for one-handed use.
- Dimensions: Carefully balanced for ergonomic handling and a spacious screen.
- Color Options: Available in classic black, serene blue, and appealing pink, providing choices for different tastes.
Display
The nova 13 Pro features a 6.8-inch OLED display with FHD+ resolution, delivering vibrant colors and high contrast. With a 120 Hz refresh rate, it ensures smooth scrolling and gameplay.
- Technology: Supports HDR10+ for superior color clarity and brightness, especially for video viewing.
- Protection: Includes a scratch and impact-resistant layer, enhancing durability.
Battery
The phone is equipped with a robust 5000 mAh battery, designed to last a full day of intensive use. It also supports 66W fast charging, allowing for quick power-ups.
- Performance: Lasts approximately a day and a half on moderate use, with rapid charging to minimize downtime.
Camera
The nova 13 Pro features a versatile camera setup designed for high-quality photos and videos.
- Main Camera: 108 MP for detailed and clear shots, even in low light.
- Wide Camera: 13 MP, ideal for wide-angle group photos.
- Macro Camera: Enables close-up shots with high clarity.
- Front Camera: 32 MP, perfect for selfies and video calls.
Sound
The phone offers stereo speakers with Dolby Atmos support, delivering immersive sound quality with depth and clarity—ideal for both music and videos.

Processor
Powered by the Kirin 9900 processor, the nova 13 Pro delivers strong performance for demanding applications and gaming. It handles multitasking efficiently, minimizing lag.

Operating System
The phone runs on HarmonyOS 4.0, Huawei’s Android alternative, providing a smooth and responsive interface with security enhancements and user-friendly features.

Memory
Available in multiple configurations:
- RAM: Options for 8 GB or 12 GB, supporting efficient multitasking.
- Storage: 256 GB or 512 GB options, with expandable storage via memory cards.
Connectivity and Networks
Supports multiple connectivity options:
- Wi-Fi: Equipped with Wi-Fi 6 for fast, stable connections.
- Bluetooth: Version 5.3 for efficient device connectivity.
- 5G: Enables high-speed internet and improved connectivity.
Sensors
The phone includes advanced sensors:
- Fingerprint: In-screen sensor for secure unlocking.
- Facial Recognition: For convenient, secure access.
- Accelerometer and Gyroscope: Enhances gaming experiences.
- Proximity and Light Sensors: Adjusts screen brightness based on surroundings.
Colors
Available in trendy shades such as glossy black, light pink, and gradient blue, adding elegance and style.

Conclusion
The Huawei nova 13 Pro impresses with its sleek design, powerful performance, versatile camera system, long-lasting battery, and high-quality display. Its support for 5G and top-tier specifications make it a compelling choice for tech enthusiasts, photographers, and those seeking a smooth and powerful smartphone experience.
November 16, 2024
Galaxy Watch4 Classic: Price and Review
Samsung Galaxy Watch 4 Classic: Price, Availability, and Features

Price & Availability
The price of the Samsung Galaxy Watch 4 Classic depends on its version (42mm or 46mm) and connectivity type (Bluetooth or LTE). Prices typically start at:
- 42mm Bluetooth: $349 / £349 / AU$549
- 42mm LTE: $399 / £389 / AU$649
- 46mm Bluetooth: $379 / £369 / AU$599
- 46mm LTE: $429 / £409 / AU$699
Discounts may be available depending on the retailer, but the Galaxy Watch 4 (non-Classic) is priced more affordably, starting at $249.99 / £249 / AU$399.

Design & Display
- Rotating Bezel for Navigation: Unlike the standard Galaxy Watch 4, the Classic features a physical rotating bezel that makes menu navigation smoother and more intuitive.
- Display: The 42mm and 46mm models offer sharp, bright displays, making them one of the best in the smartwatch market.
- Build Quality: Stainless steel body with silver and black finishes. The raised bezel adds protection against bumps. The watch has two physical buttons for navigation.
- Comfort: While the fluoroelastomer strap is comfortable, changing bands can be tricky due to small levers, and the watch’s thick profile may feel uncomfortable for some users, especially under tight clothing.
Performance & Software
- Wear OS 3: The Watch 4 Classic debuts with Wear OS 3, offering a smooth user experience with better multitasking and navigation through customizable tiles.
- Dual App Requirement: To fully utilize the watch’s features, you need both the Galaxy Wearable and Samsung Health apps. This adds some complexity but also provides in-depth fitness tracking and watch customization options.
- Theater Mode: A unique feature that silences notifications and disables raise-to-wake, ideal for uninterrupted movie viewing.
Fitness Features
- Core Modes: Walking, running, and cycling, with additional secondary modes like swimming and gym workouts.
- Body Composition Scanning: Measures body fat, water percentage, and BMI—though not as accurate as professional equipment, it’s an impressive feature for a smartwatch.
- Accuracy: Running and heart rate tracking are generally accurate, though workout controls are somewhat fiddly, and audio notifications during workouts can be disruptive.
- Automatic Activity Tracking: The watch automatically detects activities like walking after 10 minutes of movement, ensuring you don’t miss tracking valuable data.
Battery Life
The Galaxy Watch 4 Classic struggles with battery life, lasting only 20–22 hours on average with moderate usage. Despite its high-end features, the battery life is far below expectations, especially considering that most smartwatches last 2+ days on a single charge. Charging takes about 2 hours to reach full capacity, which doesn’t compensate for the short usage period.

In summary, while the Samsung Galaxy Watch 4 Classic offers excellent display quality, smooth performance, and solid fitness features, its battery life and dual app requirements could be deal-breakers for some.

Conclusion
The Samsung Galaxy Watch 4 Classic is a premium smartwatch that excels in design, display quality, and user experience. The rotating bezel offers a unique and intuitive way to navigate, making it a standout feature compared to the regular Galaxy Watch 4. The fitness tracking capabilities are robust, including detailed metrics and a body composition scanner, making it a solid choice for those looking to monitor their health.

However, its short battery life and complicated app setup could be significant drawbacks for potential buyers. The watch’s performance generally lasts only a day, meaning you’ll need to charge it twice daily, which is disappointing given its high price. While it stands out in many areas, the battery issues and small inconveniences in workout tracking might cause frustration for some users.

Overall, if you value the rotating bezel, high-quality display, and advanced fitness tracking, and can overlook the battery performance, the Samsung Galaxy Watch 4 Classic is a strong contender in the smartwatch market. However, if battery life and ease of use are top priorities for you, you might want to explore other options.
November 14, 2024
Apple Watch Ultra: Price and Comprehensive Review

Introduction

With a larger battery, a robust new design, and enhanced outdoor features tailored for runners, hikers, divers, and climbers, the Apple Watch Ultra is the first Apple smartwatch built with serious adventurers in mind. While previous Apple Watches may have ventured into Garmin’s territory, the Ultra dives straight in, fully equipped for the challenge.

But can it truly compete with the best outdoor GPS watches? And now that Apple has released the Watch Ultra 2, is it worth saving a bit more money and opting for the newer model instead? Stuff has thoroughly tested the Apple Watch Ultra to find out.

How We Test Wearables

Every smartwatch and fitness tracker reviewed at Stuff is worn 24/7 during the testing process. We apply years of experience to assess general performance, battery life, display quality, and health tracking capabilities. Manufacturers have no access to reviews before they go live, and we never accept payment to feature products.

Competitors and Value
At its launch, the Apple Watch Ultra was priced at $799 USD, setting a new benchmark for Apple wearables in terms of both battery life and durability. It boasted double the ‘general usage’ battery life of the Series 8 and was certified for water resistance to 100 meters, a significant improvement over the Series 8’s 50 meters. Its larger screen offered 2000 nits of brightness, twice the brightness of the Series 8, and it also came with dual-frequency GPS.

The key difference, however, lay in its rugged design. The Watch Ultra featured a more robust build with a glove-friendly digital crown and a customisable action button, designed specifically for outdoor use.

In terms of hardware, the Ultra was identical to the Series 8, featuring the same Apple S8 dual-core chipset, a suite of sensors (including blood oxygen and ECG monitoring), an always-on altimeter, compass, high-G accelerometer, and gyroscope. It also included temperature sensing for cycle tracking, sleep stage tracking, fall detection, and access to Apple Fitness+. There’s nothing on the Series 8 that isn’t available on the Ultra.

However, the Ultra does come with a premium price tag—almost an entire Watch SE more expensive than the Series 8 at launch. Now, with the introduction of the Apple Watch Ultra 2, the original model is only available from third-party retailers, and its price has dropped only slightly.

When it comes to competitors, the Garmin Fenix Sapphire Solar and the Garmin Enduro 2 are the only models that cost more. These Garmins offer battery life that far exceeds the Apple Watch Ultra—150 hours on the Enduro 2 and up to 122 hours on the Fenix 7. However, Apple’s smartwatch features and functionality are far superior, easily surpassing Garmin’s offerings.

Apple Watch Ultra Features
The standout features of the Apple Watch Ultra are more in its design and hardware rather than software. The display is the largest and brightest in Apple’s lineup, offering 2000 nits of brightness, making it significantly more visible in bright sunlight. The 49mm aerospace-grade titanium case provides extra durability, designed to withstand bumps and knocks typical of outdoor adventures.

The larger digital crown is easier to operate with gloves, and a titanium guard prevents accidental nudges. A new Action Button allows for quick access to functions like starting a workout or taking a lap split during a run or cycle.

Runners in the US received an automatic track detection mode, which locks into a running lane for better accuracy when arriving at a track. This feature has since expanded to other countries, including the UK, Australia, Germany, Italy, and Canada.

In addition to track detection, the Watch Ultra includes advanced running metrics such as power, vertical oscillation, stride length, and ground contact time. It also allows you to display up to six customisable stats per swipe on the larger screen.

For divers and water sports enthusiasts, the Ultra offers 100m water protection, a depth gauge, water temperature sensors, and a dedicated Depth app to monitor underwater conditions. It is designed to withstand the forces of fast water activities like kitesurfing and can operate in temperatures ranging from –20°C to 55°C. Apple has improved audio performance in extreme conditions by adding a three-microphone array and dual speaker system.

Safety features include an emergency siren with an 86-decibel alarm, which can be activated quickly via the Action Button.

The Watch Ultra is also available with three new bands: the Alpine Loop, Trail Loop, and Ocean Band. The Alpine Loop, which I tested, features a reinforced band with a G-hook fastener, but I found it a bit tricky to achieve a perfect fit. The Trail Loop offers more adjustability.

Performance
The Apple Watch Ultra lives up to Apple’s reputation with a sharp, responsive Retina touchscreen that’s bright, easy to read, and quick to react in all conditions.

The design is slightly more complicated than typical Apple Watches, but the rugged build adds robustness without sacrificing style. The watch is noticeably heavier and chunkier on the wrist, but that’s expected from a watch built for adventure.

The Action Button is a welcome feature, allowing you to quickly launch a workout or set other shortcuts. If you’re coming from outside the Apple ecosystem, a shortcut button may not seem revolutionary, but the customisation and ability to assign workout-specific actions is a significant bonus.

While the larger digital crown is an improvement, it occasionally caught on my arm, which made it a bit harder to use during intense activity.

Battery Life
On paper, the Ultra offers up to 12 hours of GPS workout time or 36 hours of typical usage. With LTE enabled, this drops to 18 hours. Enabling low power mode extends battery life to up to 60 hours, including 15 hours of hiking activity.

Although Apple promoted the Ultra as capable of enduring through events like the Marathon des Sables, in real-world conditions, it may still fall short for long ultra-endurance events. Even with moderate exercise, I had to charge the Ultra every other day.

In my tests, an hour-long run consumed 8% of the battery in full power mode. I got about 3.5 days of general usage, including that run. A 2.5-hour run in low power mode used 18% of the battery. At that rate, completing a 100km ultramarathon before the Ultra’s battery died would be a challenge for many users.

Fitness & Health Tracking
The Apple Watch Ultra features dual-frequency GPS for more accurate tracking and provides a GPS fix indicator to notify you when tracking begins. In my tests, the dual-frequency GPS performed well, with real-time pacing matching Garmin’s Enduro and accurately reflecting changes in pace.

Heart rate accuracy, however, was less consistent. The second-generation heart rate sensor sometimes provided higher or lower readings compared to a chest strap. The lag in heart rate readings during high-intensity exercise or when stopping briefly at traffic lights was noticeable, though pairing a chest strap for more precise readings is an option.

Verdict
For fans seeking a larger battery, rugged design, and features designed for outdoor adventures, the Apple Watch Ultra delivers. It’s undoubtedly the most adventure-friendly Apple Watch yet and competes well within Garmin’s territory. However, when it comes to endurance, the Apple Watch Ultra isn’t quite as capable as the top-tier Garmin models, and its battery life might require more frequent charging during longer activities. Still, for a well-rounded smartwatch that balances both on and off-the-beaten-path use, the Apple Watch Ultra remains a solid choice.

November 14, 2024
Apple Watch Series 9: Price, Specs, and In-Depth Review

Price and Availability

The Apple Watch Series 9, announced on September 12, starts at $399/£399/AU$649 for the 41mm aluminum model with GPS only, while LTE-enabled models and larger sizes come at higher prices. For instance, the 45mm aluminum case with GPS costs $429, while adding LTE connectivity brings the cost up to $529. The stainless steel models also come with premium pricing, available in elegant finishes like gold, silver, and graphite.

Design and Build

The Series 9 keeps Apple’s signature design, featuring two sizes (41mm and 45mm) and a durable aluminum or stainless steel case. New to this series is the eco-friendly approach, with recycled materials like cobalt in the battery and aluminum in the casing. The band choices also reflect this ethos, including a sport loop made from 82% recycled yarn. There’s also a fresh pink aluminum option among the returning color lineup of Midnight, Silver, Starlight, and Product Red.

Features

One standout addition is the Double Tap feature, allowing users to perform actions by pinching their fingers—a helpful hands-free function that’s perfect for accepting calls, snoozing alarms, and more. It also comes with Ultra Wideband (UWB) technology, enabling precise device tracking with other UWB-compatible Apple devices like the iPhone 15, while on-device Siri allows health data access without needing to connect to the cloud.

Performance and Battery Life

The Apple Watch Series 9 performs reliably, with up to 2,000 nits brightness for outdoor visibility. Despite the high brightness setting, battery life holds steady around 20 hours on a single charge, though daily charging is generally needed. With watchOS 10, users also benefit from Smart Stack, which provides convenient access to apps and information through a widget system. However, some may find the lack of a battery life increase disappointing, especially compared to the Apple Watch Ultra’s 36-hour capacity.

Conclusion

The Apple Watch Series 9 balances modest updates with a focus on enhanced usability and eco-conscious materials. Features like Double Tap and on-device Siri add convenience, while UWB technology opens new possibilities for device tracking. However, its design remains largely unchanged, and daily charging is still necessary. Overall, it’s an excellent option for those upgrading from older models, but users of recent generations may find the Series 9’s new features less compelling unless eco-friendly materials or the Double Tap functionality are major priorities.

November 13, 2024
Samsung Galaxy Watch5 Pro Bluetooth (45mm): Comprehensive Price & Review Guide

Samsung Galaxy Watch5 Pro: Price, Design, and Features

Price and Availability Released on August 26, 2022, the Samsung Galaxy Watch5 Pro arrives in two versions: Bluetooth for $449.99 and LTE 4G for $499.99 in the U.S. This price increase from the standard Galaxy Watch5 ($279.99 for Bluetooth and $329.99 for LTE) reflects the Pro’s durable build, enhanced battery life, and advanced GPS features. In the UK, the Watch5 Pro starts at £429 (Bluetooth) and £479 (LTE), while Australian pricing is AU$799.99 for Bluetooth and AU$999.99 for LTE.

Design and Display Built for durability, the Watch5 Pro’s rugged titanium casing and raised bezel protect the 1.36” AMOLED screen, which is clear, bright, and responsive. The use of sapphire crystal glass enhances the display’s scratch resistance, making it a great choice for outdoor adventures. A new silicone strap with a hinged d-buckle, exclusive to the Pro model, adds both utility and style, although a more formal look may require a different band.

Features and Health Monitoring Packed with advanced health features, the Galaxy Watch5 Pro supports bioelectric impedance analysis (BIA) for body composition, improved sleep tracking with detailed sleep coaching, and an exclusive “route workout” feature that allows users to follow pre-planned routes with turn-by-turn navigation. The watch’s haptic feedback and route-trackback feature make it easier to stay on course without needing constant screen checks.

Samsung Health integrates smoothly with the device, providing comprehensive data on sleep patterns, activity tracking, and health stats. However, certain features are optimized when paired with a Samsung smartphone.

Battery and Performance With a 590mAh battery, the Watch5 Pro is advertised to last around 80 hours on a full charge. Under real-world conditions, users reported about 72 hours with light-to-moderate use, including GPS and notification features. While its battery life is impressive for a smartwatch, it may fall short for dedicated athletes needing extended outdoor usage.

Verdict The Galaxy Watch5 Pro is one of the most feature-rich fitness-oriented Wear OS smartwatches available, rivaling the Apple Watch Ultra in some areas. Its impressive screen quality, health tracking features, and GPS capabilities make it a solid choice for active users. However, those looking for extreme durability and battery life might still prefer specialized outdoor watches like those from Garmin.

Ideal for fitness enthusiasts and weekend adventurers, the Galaxy Watch5 Pro blends smartwatch features with outdoor-readiness, offering a reliable option for users who want an everyday watch that can transition to active pursuits.

November 13, 2024
Apple Watch Ultra 2: Price, Features & In-Depth Review

Apple Watch Ultra 2: Pricing, Availability, and Key Features

The Apple Watch Ultra 2, priced at $799 (USD), £799 (GBP), or AU$1,399, is available globally with a single model and size (49mm) in titanium. Unlike the Apple Watch Series 9, which offers multiple colors and configurations, the Ultra 2 is only available in its standard titanium finish, despite earlier speculations about other color options. LTE connectivity is included as a standard feature, and the only customization option is the choice of the band, with options including Alpine, Trail, and Ocean bands.

Design and Display

The design of the Ultra 2 maintains the robust titanium casing from its predecessor and includes a stunning 3,000-nit Retina display, Apple’s brightest yet. The watch face is customizable with exclusive options like a ticking second-hand display, and it performs particularly well in Night Mode. The casing, which includes 95% recycled titanium, houses Apple’s signature Action button, along with speaker and microphone placements identical to the first Ultra model.

New Features and Performance Enhancements

Building on its adventure-oriented features, the Ultra 2 retains advanced GPS tracking, a warning siren, and the Oceanic+ app for diving. A notable new feature is the Double Tap gesture, allowing users to control apps with a simple pinch, which is especially helpful in active or hands-free situations. Apple’s Ultra Wideband technology is also now integrated, improving device location capabilities when paired with an iPhone 15.

The Ultra 2’s battery life, expected to last around 36 hours under typical use, is ideal for day-to-day activities but may fall short for extended outdoor excursions compared to some Garmin models. However, with its impressive build, display, and new functionalities, the Apple Watch Ultra 2 offers a compelling option for those seeking a premium smartwatch with rugged capabilities.

Conclusion

The Apple Watch Ultra 2 is a premium smartwatch that combines high-end adventure features with Apple’s cutting-edge technology. Priced at $799, it’s designed for those who need a durable, feature-rich device for both daily use and outdoor pursuits. With a bright, advanced display, rugged titanium build, and thoughtful enhancements like the Double Tap gesture, the Ultra 2 stands out among smartwatches. However, while the battery life is solid for regular use, those needing extended battery performance may find alternatives in models like Garmin’s multi-day watches. Overall, the Ultra 2 remains an excellent choice for those who prioritize durability, advanced features, and Apple’s seamless ecosystem integration.

November 12, 2024
Samsung Galaxy Watch5 (40mm, Bluetooth) – Price & Detailed Review

Samsung Galaxy Watch 5: Price and Availability

The Samsung Galaxy Watch 5, available in 40mm and 44mm models, starts at $279.99 for the Bluetooth-only version and $329.99 for the LTE model. Pricing has increased slightly from the previous generation. The larger 44mm variant costs $299 for Bluetooth-only and $349 for the LTE model. Both sizes are currently available from major retailers and Samsung’s online store.

Design and Comfort

The Galaxy Watch 5 retains the sleek, modern look of the Galaxy Watch 4, without a rotating bezel, and relies on a touch-based digital bezel instead. The watch body is crafted from lightweight aluminum, weighing 28.7g for the 40mm and 33.5g for the 44mm model. The 40mm model comes in Graphite, Pink Gold, and Silver, while the 44mm model is available in Graphite, Sapphire, and Silver. Samsung’s Bespoke service offers further customization with various watch body and strap options.

Display Quality

Both models feature a vibrant circular Super AMOLED display with high brightness, perfect for outdoor use. The 40mm screen is 1.19 inches, while the 44mm screen is 1.39 inches, with each screen offering sharp 330ppi resolution. Samsung upgraded the screen material to a tougher sapphire crystal, making it 60% stronger than the previous glass, enhancing durability against drops and scratches.

Software and Performance

The Watch 5 runs Wear OS 3 with Samsung’s One UI Watch overlay, providing a smooth and intuitive experience. It supports numerous apps, is optimized for Samsung devices, and works with most Android phones, but lacks iOS compatibility. With 1.5GB of RAM and 16GB storage, the watch provides reliable performance, handling apps and multitasking smoothly.

Health and Fitness Tracking

Equipped with Samsung’s BioActive Sensor, the Watch 5 tracks over 100 workouts, sleep patterns, ECG, body composition, and more. Improved sleep tracking offers personalized insights and gamifies sleep quality for better user engagement. Body fat percentage and heart rate monitoring provide useful fitness data, though some measurements, like body fat, may differ slightly from traditional methods.

Battery Life and Charging

The Watch 5’s battery lasts about a day with moderate usage. The 40mm model holds a 284mAh battery, while the 44mm version has a 410mAh battery. Samsung’s new USB-C charger offers faster charging, allowing for quicker top-ups, particularly helpful for heavy users.

Overall, the Galaxy Watch 5 offers a balanced blend of design, fitness features, and software flexibility, making it a solid option for Android users seeking a high-quality smartwatch.

Conclusion

The Samsung Galaxy Watch 5 delivers a well-rounded smartwatch experience with its stylish design, strong health and fitness features, and upgraded durability. Its enhanced sapphire crystal display, variety of strap and color options, and high customization make it suitable for both fitness enthusiasts and casual users. Although it doesn’t support iOS and requires Samsung-specific apps to unlock certain features, it’s a strong contender in the Android smartwatch market.

For users already in the Samsung ecosystem or Android users seeking a premium smartwatch, the Galaxy Watch 5 offers reliable performance, intuitive software, and robust fitness tracking. While battery life could be better, the faster charging feature makes it easier to keep up with everyday usage. Overall, this watch stands out as an excellent value, especially for Android users looking for a stylish, functional wearable.

November 12, 2024
Apple iPhone 16 Pro Max: Price & Comprehensive Review
Design and Features

The iPhone 16 Pro Max maintains a familiar look that doesn’t stray far from its predecessors, with only subtle tweaks to the design. A larger screen, a more compact Dynamic Island for the selfie camera and Face ID, and some additional buttons are among the few visible changes. However, the overall aesthetic remains consistent with models like the iPhone 11 Pro Max, which began this design lineage in 2019.

The upgraded display is a standout feature, delivering sharp visuals with its 1320×2868 resolution on a 6.9-inch OLED panel, showing vivid colors and HDR content impressively. It’s bright enough for sunlight visibility with a peak brightness of 2000 nits and offers a smooth 120Hz refresh rate. Watching content, like a sci-fi show on a long flight, was an enjoyable experience, although other flagship phones offer similar quality. The stereo speakers provide clear, punchy sound that complements the screen well.

With narrower bezels, the iPhone 16 Pro Max has expanded screen real estate while remaining manageable in size, though it still presents challenges for one-handed use, especially for users with smaller hands.

While the Dynamic Island brings innovative functionality, it does intrude more than the small cutouts on some Android devices. This can be a drawback when watching full-screen content, as Apple’s default setting avoids overlap with the cutout by letterboxing. Users can choose to fill the screen, though that means part of the content will be cut off by the Dynamic Island. Face ID continues to work exceptionally well, recognizing faces quickly and accurately in various lighting conditions.

Apple’s use of premium materials like the titanium frame and Ceramic Shield glass creates a sturdy, smooth feel. While the display glass feels solid, the back has a slightly hollow sound that’s common in smartphones. Although durability claims are strong, the base model iPhone 16 has shown some signs of wear, suggesting that the Ceramic Shield isn’t impervious to scratches in all conditions. The Pro Max also boasts impressive water resistance, surviving depths of up to 6 meters for 30 minutes.

The shift to eSIM-only removes the SIM card tray, which might inconvenience travelers who rely on physical SIMs. Transferring eSIMs between devices has proven to be tricky, highlighting a limitation in flexibility compared to physical SIMs.

One major update is the transition to a USB-C port from Apple’s long-standing Lightning connector. The inclusion of USB 3.0 speeds enables faster data transfer for tasks like offloading high-resolution photos and videos, a welcome improvement for power users.

Camera Control

The iPhone 16 Pro Max introduces a new “Camera Control” button near the bottom right of the device. This is positioned well for selfies but is somewhat awkward for rear camera use. Although similar to a dedicated shutter button, it incorporates additional functions, like light presses, full presses, and swipes, which can control various settings. However, its complexity may overwhelm some users, especially given that the button activates on release rather than press, making the process slightly more cumbersome.

In practice, the Camera Control button occasionally defaults to digital zoom on the main camera rather than the telephoto lens under certain lighting, undermining its intended functionality.

Software and Performance

The iPhone 16 Pro Max runs on iOS 18, a refined OS with new customization options that help bridge some differences for those switching from Android. Apple has emphasized AI improvements, though many will arrive with a later update (iOS 18.1).

Equipped with the A18 Pro chip, the iPhone 16 Pro Max performs exceptionally well in daily tasks, scoring high on benchmarks like Geekbench, outpacing most Android competitors. While it handles graphically demanding games smoothly, its performance in graphics-focused tests like 3DMark trails behind top Android devices like the RedMagic 9S Pro, which outperforms the iPhone in sustained graphics performance.

The battery life can easily last a full day and sometimes even stretches into two days with moderate use, though the always-on display can impact longevity. Adjusting settings, such as switching to a black background for the always-on display, helped conserve battery during testing.

Cameras

The iPhone 16 Pro Max’s camera array includes:
- 48MP wide-angle
- 48MP ultra-wide with a 120-degree field of view
- 12MP telephoto with 5x optical zoom
- 12MP selfie camera
The primary sensor delivers sharp, colorful photos, even in challenging lighting. While some criticize Apple’s tendency to reduce shadows, users can adjust this with Photographic Styles. The telephoto lens shines at 5x zoom, capturing distant subjects with remarkable clarity. However, digital zooming on the main sensor can degrade image quality at higher magnifications.

The ultra-wide camera, despite its high resolution, occasionally produces softer images, especially around the edges. The selfie camera captures natural colors and lighting but lacks sharpness when zoomed in, falling short of competitors like the Pixel 9 Pro.

price

The iPhone 16 Pro Max, starting at around $1,199 USD for the 256GB version, brings incremental yet noteworthy updates, particularly in its display, camera features, and the introduction of USB-C. The 6.9-inch OLED display boasts a sharp 1320×2868 resolution, vivid HDR colors, and a peak brightness of 2000 nits, providing excellent visuals even under direct sunlight. Although it doesn’t feature the market’s brightest display, its high resolution and 120Hz refresh rate contribute to smooth navigation and immersive media viewing.

The new Camera Control button near the phone’s bottom-right side offers enhanced photo-taking options. Although versatile, some users might find the button a bit overwhelming due to its various commands and sensitivity. However, this addition underscores Apple’s effort to cater to users seeking more control in photography, especially given the Pro Max’s advanced camera setup, which includes a 48MP wide sensor, a 5x telephoto, and an upgraded ultra-wide camera.

While powerful, the A18 Pro chip faces stiff competition in GPU performance from models like the OnePlus 12 and RedMagic 9S Pro, which excel in certain graphics-intensive benchmarks. Nonetheless, the iPhone 16 Pro Max delivers strong battery life, lasting up to two days under moderate use.

Verdict

The iPhone 16 Pro Max excels in build quality, performance, and display, though it isn’t without flaws. The new Camera Control feature holds potential but feels somewhat over-engineered. And while the ultra-wide and selfie cameras could be improved, the device remains a top-tier option, especially for users who want the latest from Apple without needing to make too many trade-offs.
November 11, 2024