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Galaxy Watch6 Classic: A Comprehensive Review and Price Overview
Unveiled during Samsung Unpacked 2023, the Galaxy Watch 6 Classic unfortunately played second fiddle to the newly introduced foldable devices, the Galaxy Z Fold 5 and Galaxy Z Flip 5. However, this impressive WearOS smartwatch deserves more attention for its robust capabilities in timekeeping, weather updates, notifications, and health and activity tracking, standing out in ways that few other wearables do.

This striking timepiece boasts a substantial 37.3mm display and features the much-anticipated return of the rotating bezel. As an enthusiast of traditional watches, I appreciate the aesthetic appeal of the bezel, even if its practical necessity is questionable. The touchscreen allows for easy navigation through modes, apps, and notifications, and the physical rotating dial offers an additional tactile way to interact with the device.

The Galaxy Watch 6 Classic isn’t primarily about extra features or enhanced battery life compared to the standard Galaxy Watch 6; it’s a celebration of large watch designs and the attention it attracts. Weighing in at 59g (compared to the 43mm Classic’s 33.3g), it’s packed with sensors that track heart rate, ECG, body temperature, activity levels, and sleep patterns—though wearing such a noticeable watch at night can be a challenge. It pairs beautifully with Samsung smartphones, providing seamless notifications and interaction, particularly when tested with the Galaxy Z Fold 5.

Durability is another strong point, with the watch designed to withstand swimming and accidental drops. Over several days, battery life showed notable improvement, allowing for all-day and even overnight usage before needing a charge, likely thanks to the new Exynos W930 chipset that enhances power management without sacrificing performance. While the size may not suit everyone’s taste, it remains a standout option for those who appreciate larger WearOS smartwatches.

Pricing Overview:

In the U.S., the Galaxy Watch 6 Classic is priced at:
- 43mm Bluetooth model: $399.99
- 43mm LTE model: $449.99
- 47mm Bluetooth model: $429.99
- 47mm LTE model: $479.99
International prices vary, with the UK starting at £369 for the 43mm Bluetooth model and AU$699 in Australia for the same size.

Specifications Overview:
- Dimensions:
  - 43mm: 42.5 x 42.5 x 10.9 mm
  - 47mm: 46.5 x 46.5 x 10.9 mm
- Weight:
  - 43mm: 52g
  - 47mm: 59g
- Display:
  - 43mm: 1.3-inch Super AMOLED
  - 47mm: 1.5-inch Super AMOLED
- Battery Life: Up to 40 hours
- Water Resistance: 5ATM + IP68
In conclusion, if you seek a larger, more traditionally styled smartwatch with robust features, the Galaxy Watch 6 Classic is a strong contender, despite the option of lighter and smaller alternatives from the Galaxy Watch 6 lineup. The rotating bezel adds a layer of functionality that some users may find appealing, but ultimately, personal preference and lifestyle will dictate the best choice for your wrist.
November 4, 2024
Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 5: Price & Review Overview
Design and Specifications
The Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 5 is a premium device featuring a sleek aluminum frame, matte glass rear, and a hinge that ensures smooth and secure folding. In its fifth iteration, while the changes from its predecessors may be subtler, they remain significant. One major improvement is the removal of the gap between the screens when closed.

This “zero gap” not only better protects the inner screen but also minimizes the chance of debris entering and causing damage, a critical step toward enhancing the durability of the folding display. The Z Fold 5 is also thinner and lighter than its predecessor, weighing 253 grams.

It’s more durable, too, with an IPX8 water resistance rating, Corning Gorilla Glass Victus protection on both the front and back, and a new protective film on the main display, making it even more scratch-resistant.

The Galaxy Z Fold 5 boasts two screens: a 6.2-inch Dynamic AMOLED 2X cover screen with a resolution of 2268 x 832 pixels and a 120Hz refresh rate, and a 7.6-inch Dynamic AMOLED 2X fold-out main screen with a resolution of 2208 x 1768 pixels, also with up to a 120Hz adaptive refresh rate.

The main screen features an under-display camera that remains hidden when not in use, delivering an immersive, uninterrupted viewing experience.

Even after three months of use, the Z Fold 5 still turns heads in public, with its expansive display being an eye-catcher. However, it can also attract unwanted attention, especially from children eager to play games or watch videos on the large screen. Despite its durability, it’s not the type of phone you’d want kids handling carelessly due to its hinge and large internal screen.

The Z Fold 5 is equipped with five cameras: a 10MP selfie camera on the cover screen, a 4MP under-display camera on the main screen, and a triple rear camera setup comprising a 50MP wide-angle lens, a 10MP telephoto lens with 3x optical zoom, and a 12MP ultra-wide-angle lens.

It also includes a side-mounted fingerprint scanner, stereo speakers, and a 4400mAh battery with 25W wired charging, 11W wireless charging, and 4.5W reverse wireless charging.

Powered by the Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 Mobile Platform for Samsung, the Z Fold 5 features 12GB of RAM and storage options ranging from 256GB to 1TB. However, there’s no expandable memory via a microSD card. The device runs on Android 13 with One UI 5.1.1 and supports 5G, Wi-Fi 6E, Bluetooth 5.2, NFC, and USB-C connectivity.

Screen Quality and Audio
The Galaxy Z Fold 5 offers a stunning visual experience whether in phone or tablet mode. The 6.2-inch cover screen is bright, sharp, and responsive, ideal for quick tasks such as checking notifications or making calls. Its narrow dimensions compared to other smartphones may take some getting used to, but it delivers excellent clarity for tasks without needing to unfold the device.

The 7.6-inch main screen is even more impressive, with vivid colors, high resolution, and a smooth refresh rate, supporting HDR10+ for enhanced contrast and dynamic range. This main display becomes indispensable for media consumption, gaming, or multitasking with up to three apps simultaneously. The under-display camera is subtle enough not to detract from the viewing experience.

In terms of audio, the Z Fold 5 delivers high-quality sound with stereo speakers that support Dolby Atmos, offering a surround sound experience. While there’s no 3.5mm headphone jack, wireless audio via Bluetooth is well supported.

Camera
The Galaxy Z Fold 5 comes with five cameras, including a 10MP selfie camera on the cover screen, a 4MP under-display camera, and a triple rear setup with a 12MP ultra-wide lens, a 10MP telephoto lens (3x optical zoom), and a 50MP wide-angle lens. The camera system delivers sharp and detailed images, especially in bright conditions, with natural color reproduction and smooth autofocus.

The Z Fold 5 can record 4K videos at 60fps with HDR10+ support, offering high-quality video recording. However, the under-display camera is less ideal for photography, though it works well enough for video calls.

Performance
The Z Fold 5 is powered by the Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 chipset, paired with 12GB of RAM, ensuring top-tier performance across all tasks. Whether you’re multitasking or gaming, the Z Fold 5 handles it effortlessly. Thermal management is excellent, with a vapor chamber cooling system that prevents overheating during heavy usage.

Battery and Charging
The 4400mAh battery offers decent battery life for a foldable device, lasting a full day of moderate use or around 10 hours of heavy use. Charging is fast and convenient, with 25W wired charging, 15W wireless charging, and 4.5W reverse wireless charging. You can also adjust performance settings to prioritize either speed or battery life, depending on your needs.

Pricing and Availability
The Galaxy Z Fold 5 is available in three main colors: Phantom Black, Cream, and Icy Blue, with two additional colors (grey and a deeper blue) exclusive to Samsung’s website. Storage options include 256GB, 512GB, and 1TB.

In the US, the 256GB model starts at $1,799.

The 512GB model is priced at $1,919.

The 1TB model is priced at $2,159.

Verdict
The Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 5 is a remarkable device that showcases the potential of foldable technology. With its stunning display, powerful performance, and versatile multitasking capabilities, it’s a great option for those who want the convenience of a phone and a tablet in one. It’s more durable and refined than previous versions and supports the S Pen for added functionality.

However, it does come at a premium price and requires a learning curve to adapt to its unique form factor. If you’re willing to invest in the future of foldable devices, the Z Fold 5 is a fantastic choice.
October 21, 2024
Xiaomi 13 Pro Comprehensive Review and Price Overview
Verdict
The Xiaomi 13 Pro stands out as a premium flagship, excelling in both photography and performance. Few devices can match its capability in delivering an all-around smartphone experience. While the selfie camera is average and the device occasionally heats up, the Xiaomi 13 Pro remains a compelling choice for users seeking a top-tier daily driver.

Cameras

The camera system is undoubtedly the highlight of the Xiaomi 13 Pro, featuring a versatile triple-camera setup with three 50MP sensors. Notable upgrades include the Sony IMX989 1-inch sensor for the primary camera, which delivers exceptional detail and dynamic range, and a new 50MP telephoto lens capable of macro photography. Additionally, the 50MP ultra-wide sensor provides a 115-degree field of view, though it offers average performance compared to the other lenses.

Xiaomi’s collaboration with Leica adds two distinct photo styles: Leica Authentic and Leica Vibrant. Leica Vibrant produces punchier, more saturated images ideal for social media, while Leica Authentic captures natural, true-to-life tones. Both modes are impressive, and the daylight photos showcase high detail, excellent exposure, and natural bokeh.

The telephoto lens is a standout, with its “floating” mechanism offering a focal range of 10cm to infinity, making it versatile for both macro shots and zoomed-in portraits. The 3.2X optical zoom provides sharp detail, although the 70X digital zoom is best avoided for high-quality shots.

In low-light conditions, the Xiaomi 13 Pro performs admirably, especially with its Night mode enhancing shadows and details. The phone also supports 4K 60fps video recording with Dolby Vision and has optical image stabilization (OIS) on both the main and telephoto lenses for smooth video capture. However, the 32MP front-facing camera falls short, with inconsistent exposure and detail.

Design and Display

The Xiaomi 13 Pro is built with premium materials, including a ceramic back that gives it a luxurious feel, though it is prone to smudges. At 228g and 8.33mm thick, the phone is on the heavier side but retains an elegant design with subtle curves and a refined camera matrix. The device is also IP68 rated for water and dust resistance.

The 13 Pro features a 6.73-inch WQHD+ AMOLED panel with a 120Hz refresh rate and LTPO 3.0 technology, allowing the screen to adjust between 1Hz and 120Hz depending on usage. The display supports Dolby Vision, HDR10+, and can reach up to 1,900 nits of brightness. Content looks stunning, and the viewing experience is one of the best in its class.

Performance and Software

Powered by the Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Gen 2, the Xiaomi 13 Pro offers top-tier performance without any noticeable slowdowns. Whether gaming, multitasking, or watching high-definition content, the device handles it all with ease. However, the ceramic back can become warm during intensive tasks, though this doesn’t affect performance.

The phone comes with 12GB of LPDDR5X RAM and 256GB of UFS 4.0 storage, ensuring smooth performance across apps and games. The stereo speakers are tuned by Dolby Atmos and deliver rich, vibrant sound.

On the software front, MIUI 14 based on Android 13 offers plenty of customization options, though some may find the interface a bit cumbersome. Xiaomi has included useful features like app compression and improved text recognition, but there’s still some unnecessary bloatware.

Battery

The Xiaomi 13 Pro houses a 4,800mAh battery that supports 120W wired charging and 50W wireless charging. With moderate usage, the phone easily lasts a day and a half, while heavy users can expect around six hours of screen-on time. When needed, the phone charges from 0 to 100% in just 25 minutes, thanks to Xiaomi’s HyperCharge technology.

Final Verdict
The Xiaomi 13 Pro excels in areas that matter most: display quality, rear camera performance, and raw power. It’s a perfect choice for users who prioritize photography and a premium multimedia experience. The selfie camera could use improvement, and the device tends to heat up during demanding tasks, but these minor drawbacks don’t overshadow its overall excellence. For anyone looking for a flagship device, the Xiaomi 13 Pro is a top contender.

Price:
The Xiaomi 13 Pro is priced at approximately $1,299 USD, making it a premium flagship option that competes with other high-end smartphones in the market.

Editor’s rating: 4 / 5
Pros:

Exceptional rear cameras

Stunning display

Strong performance

Premium design

Cons:

Average selfie camera

Occasional heating under heavy load

Conclusion
The Xiaomi 13 Pro is a well-rounded flagship that truly shines in its display quality, rear camera setup, and powerful performance, making it a great choice for photography enthusiasts and multimedia consumers. While the selfie camera could be improved, and the device can heat up during intense usage, these are minor issues in comparison to the overall user experience. At a price point of approximately $1,299 USD, the Xiaomi 13 Pro offers exceptional value for those seeking a top-tier Android device. It’s a compelling flagship option that delivers in almost every area.

If you’re in the market for a premium smartphone that combines style, functionality, and cutting-edge features, the Xiaomi 13 Pro is definitely worth considering.
October 15, 2024
OnePlus Nord 3: Price and Review Overview
OnePlus Nord 3: Pricing & Comprehensive Review

Price:

The OnePlus Nord 3 is positioned in the mid-range market, with pricing varying slightly by region:
- Base Model (8GB RAM / 128GB Storage): Approximately $555 USD
- Higher Model (16GB RAM / 256GB Storage): Approximately $650 USD
Where to Buy:
- Available on Amazon and OnePlus’s website in select regions.
- Not available for purchase in the US.
Review Summary:

The OnePlus Nord 3 delivers flagship-level performance and enhances the Nord series with key upgrades, keeping it competitive in the mid-range smartphone market. While it may not have standout features, its overall package is impressive, with a sleek design and strong performance. The phone does have some camera limitations, but it remains a solid choice for those seeking a quality mid-range Android device.

OnePlus Nord 3 Review: At a Glance
- What is it? The OnePlus Nord 3 is the latest addition to OnePlus’s mid-range Android lineup, available outside the US. It features a MediaTek Dimensity 9000 chipset, up to 16GB of RAM, and a 120Hz 6.74-inch display. It improves battery life with a 5,000mAh cell and offers fast 80W charging. Priced higher than the OnePlus Nord 2T, it provides better performance, a flagship-grade camera sensor, and a larger screen.
- Price: Starting at approximately $555 USD, with the higher model around $650 USD.
- Where can you buy it? Available on Amazon and OnePlus’s website in select regions but not sold in the US.
- How did we test it? The review unit was provided by OnePlus, and the phone was tested over a period of six days.
- Is it worth it? The OnePlus Nord 3 excels in performance, build quality, and camera capabilities for its price, offering a notable upgrade over the Nord 2T. While it may not lead the pack, it provides a reliable and consistent experience in the competitive mid-range smartphone market.
Should You Buy the OnePlus Nord 3?

The OnePlus Nord 3 is a significant upgrade from the Nord 2T, aligning well with the expectations of a 2023 mid-range phone. It features improvements across the board, including a flagship-level camera sensor and a robust build quality. Its design is more refined compared to its predecessor, with a simpler and more sophisticated look. It also retains useful features like the alert slider and an IR blaster, though it lacks some high-end features such as advanced waterproofing.

The display, now larger at 6.74 inches with a 120Hz refresh rate, provides an excellent visual experience. The MediaTek Dimensity 9000 chipset ensures strong performance, although there are minor bugs like typing latency that may be addressed in future updates. The camera system, while good, falls short in some areas like stabilization and macro photography.

Overall, the OnePlus Nord 3 offers solid performance and a premium mid-range experience. It may not stand out in every aspect, but its consistency and value make it a worthy consideration.

Alternatives to Consider:
- Google Pixel 7a: Priced around $477 USD, it offers a similar AI-driven camera experience with a Tensor G2 chipset, though with slightly less performance compared to the Nord 3.
- Samsung Galaxy A54 5G: At about $379.50 USD, it provides a great all-around experience with an IP67 rating and a high-quality 6.4-inch AMOLED display.
- Nothing Phone 1: Priced at approximately $490 USD, it features a distinctive design and wireless charging, though it has a less powerful Snapdragon 778G Plus chipset.
- Poco F5: Available for around $722 USD, it focuses on performance with a Snapdragon 7 Plus Gen 2 chipset and fast charging, but comes with MIUI bloatware.
OnePlus Nord 3 Specs:
- Display: 6.74-inch Fluid AMOLED, 2772 x 1240 resolution, 120Hz refresh rate
- Processor: MediaTek Dimensity 9000
- RAM: 8GB or 16GB
- Storage: 128GB or 256GB
- Battery: 5,000mAh with 80W SUPERVOOC charging
- Cameras:
  - Rear: 50MP main, 8MP ultrawide, 2MP macro
  - Front: 32MP
- Video: 4K at 60FPS, 1080p at 30/60FPS
- Software: Android 13 with Oxygen OS 13.1
- Dimensions: 162 x 75.1 x 8.2mm, 193g
- IP Rating: IP54
The OnePlus Nord 3 is a competitive option in the mid-range segment, balancing performance, design, and value effectively.

Conclusion:

The OnePlus Nord 3 is a well-rounded mid-range smartphone that effectively balances performance, design, and value. It represents a notable step up from its predecessors, delivering robust hardware and a refined user experience. While it may not have the most eye-catching features or the best camera in its class, its consistent performance and reliable build make it a worthy contender in the mid-range market. If you’re looking for a dependable and high-performing device without breaking the bank, the OnePlus Nord 3 is a solid choice. For those who prioritize high-end features or advanced camera capabilities, exploring alternatives might be worthwhile, but for overall value and performance, the Nord 3 stands out as a strong contender.
September 3, 2024
Motorola Razr 50: Detailed Review and Price Overview

Motorola has really stepped up its game with the Razr Plus 2024, offering a fresh take for those tired of the usual smartphone designs. This flip phone is a vibrant, eye-catching alternative that stands out with its bright colors, both inside and out, from the screens to the shell. It’s a unique blend of innovation and style, setting it apart from the typical slab phones.

Even though last year’s Motorola Razr Plus was already impressive, the 2024 model takes it to the next level. The cover display, which was already the best among flip phones, is now even larger and brighter, surpassing the competition, including Samsung’s Galaxy Z Flip 6. This bigger display turns the phone into a mini window to all your apps, making them more functional and enjoyable in a compact format.

The Razr Plus 2024 also boasts enhanced durability, with water resistance that ensures it can handle a splash or two. Motorola has replaced the glass back with a new vegan leather that has a suede-like feel, giving the phone a unique look and a non-slip surface, making it comfortable to hold and less likely to slide off surfaces.

However, Motorola has also jumped on the AI bandwagon with this model, and unfortunately, it’s not all positive. The AI features, particularly the Moto AI tools, have been criticized for producing results that are offensive and problematic, highlighting the shortcomings of AI in consumer devices. The AI-generated images have been flagged for perpetuating stereotypes, making this aspect of the phone a significant drawback.

Despite these AI issues, the Razr Plus 2024 remains an impressive device. Its improved hinge, larger cover display, and stylish design make it a standout in the market. The phone’s cool factor, especially with color options like Hot Pink, is undeniable, even if the AI features are best ignored for now.

In terms of pricing, the Razr Plus 2024 is available for pre-order at around $1,000, positioning it against competitors like the Google Pixel 8 Pro and Apple iPhone 15 Pro. While it’s on par with these flagship devices in terms of cost, Motorola is known for offering discounts, so it might be worth waiting for a price drop before making a purchase.

Overall, the Razr Plus 2024 is a stylish, innovative flip phone that brings something new to the table, even if it’s not perfect. If Motorola addresses the AI concerns and offers a competitive price, this could be a must-have device for those looking to break away from the standard smartphone design.

Conclusion

Motorola has outdone itself with the Razr Plus 2024, delivering a flip phone that’s as vibrant in performance as it is in appearance. It’s a device that stands out in a sea of similar smartphones, boasting an impressive design, enhanced durability, and a display that sets it apart from its competitors. The flip phone format is elevated to new heights, offering an experience that is not only nostalgic but also innovative and fun.

However, the introduction of poorly executed AI features mars an otherwise excellent device. The Moto AI tools not only fail to add value but also bring unwanted controversy, detracting from the overall user experience. Motorola’s foray into AI could have been an exciting development, but instead, it highlights the pitfalls of hastily integrated technology. For potential buyers, this is a significant consideration, and it may be worth waiting to see if Motorola addresses these issues in future updates.

In summary, while the Motorola Razr Plus 2024 shines in many areas, its problematic AI features cast a shadow over its appeal. If you can overlook these shortcomings, the Razr Plus 2024 remains one of the most stylish and enjoyable smartphones on the market. But for those concerned about the implications of AI, it might be wise to hold off or consider alternative options.

September 1, 2024