Tag: CES 2025

  • Pre-Order SwitchBot Smart Lock Ultra Now Available on Amazon

    Pre-Order SwitchBot Smart Lock Ultra Now Available on Amazon

    Key Takeaways

    1. SwitchBot is taking pre-orders for the Smart Lock Ultra, introduced at CES 2025, priced at £249.99/€249.99 in Europe.
    2. The official launch date is set for May 22nd, with expected delivery by late May.
    3. The lock offers 15 unlocking methods, including voice commands, Apple Watch, and NFC technology.
    4. It is compatible with the Matter-enabled SwitchBot Hub and runs on lithium-ion batteries lasting up to nine months.
    5. Complete specifications will be revealed on May 22nd, with no current details on US availability or pricing.


    SwitchBot is now taking pre-orders for its latest product, the Smart Lock Ultra. This innovative smart home device was introduced at CES 2025, alongside other gadgets like the SwitchBot Video Doorbell. The new lock seems to inherit several features from the previous SwitchBot Lock Pro but boasts a fresh design and claims to offer quicker unlocking.

    Pricing and Availability

    If you’re in Europe, specifically countries such as the UK, the Netherlands, and Germany, you can pre-order the SwitchBot Lock Ultra for £249.99/€249.99 on Amazon. According to product listings, the official launch date is set for May 22nd, which means customers should expect their orders to arrive by late May.

    Features and Compatibility

    The SwitchBot Lock Ultra is made to fit over an existing lock, enabling you to unlock your door through one of 15 different methods. These options include using voice commands, your Apple Watch, and NFC technology. Additionally, when paired with the Keypad Touch accessory, users can opt for fingerprint recognition, which boasts a claimed accuracy of 98%, or enter a passcode. The lock is compatible with the Matter-enabled SwitchBot Hub and runs on lithium-ion batteries that provide power for up to nine months. Its dimensions are 6.3 x 6.7 x 12.2 cm (~2.5 x 2.6 x 4.8 inches), making it a bit smaller than the Lock Pro, and it features an aluminum casing.

    Future Specifications

    The complete specifications for the SwitchBot Lock Ultra are anticipated to be revealed on May 22nd. At this moment, it remains unclear when the SwitchBot Lock Ultra will be available in the US or what its price will be in that market.

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  • Maono PD300X Launches Affordable Professional Podcasting Microphone

    Maono PD300X Launches Affordable Professional Podcasting Microphone

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Maono PD300X features a unique dual-port design, allowing simultaneous connection of a laptop and another device, or offering “zero-delay” monitoring through a 3.5mm headphone jack.

    2. It includes a USB-C port with a type-A adapter, an XLR input, and boasts a sampling rate of up to 192kHz/24-bit for high-quality sound capture.

    3. Users can access an EQ panel via MaonoLink software with four presets tailored for podcasting, gaming, streaming, and recording, plus a programmable Mute Button for various functions.

    4. The PD300X is priced significantly lower than competitors, with a retail price of $99.99, compared to Shure’s MV7i at $349.

    5. The device received positive feedback at CES 2025 for its audio quality, professional design, flexibility in USB/XLR connections, user-friendly setup, and sturdy construction.


    Maono has reportedly received a lot of good feedback about its latest PD300X at CES 2025, likely due to its unique dual-port design. This feature may allow users to connect both a laptop and a device like the TASCAM FR-AV2 simultaneously, or it offers “zero-delay” monitoring through a 3.5mm headphone jack, according to sources.

    Ports and Specs

    The device includes a USB-C port, which can work with a type-A adapter provided in the package, along with an XLR input. Maono claims that the PD300X enhances its professional appeal with a sampling rate of up to 192kHz/24-bit and “broadcast-grade” sound capture.

    Features

    Users can access an EQ panel through the MaonoLink software, which includes four presets optimized for podcasting, gaming, streaming, and recording. Additionally, the PD300X features a special Mute Button that can be programmed for various functions, such as activating its “5-level” noise reduction with a long press. This button is located beneath a 3-in-1 Smart Knob that allows for switching monitors and adjusting mic or headphone volume.

    In this way, Maono presents the PD300X as a viable alternative to the Shure MV7i, and it does so at a much lower price point.

    Pricing Comparison

    Shure’s USB/XLR dynamic microphone is listed at $349 on Amazon, while the PD300X is currently available for $99.99, including a boom. Alternatively, the version equipped with the PD300XT stand is priced at $110.46 as of now.

    Exciting Reception at CES

    The PD300X was the star of CES 2025, receiving enthusiastic responses for its impressive audio quality and professional aesthetics. Attendees highlighted its flexibility, noting how easily it switches between USB and XLR connections, making it perfect for podcast recordings and home studio setups. People were also taken by its user-friendly plug-and-play capabilities and sturdy construction, showcasing Maono’s dedication to innovation and design that prioritizes the user experience.

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  • Dell Pro 32 Plus (P3225QE) Unveiled at MWC 2025: Specs & Pricing

    Dell Pro 32 Plus (P3225QE) Unveiled at MWC 2025: Specs & Pricing

    Key Takeaways

    1. Dell launched the Pro 32 Plus (P3225QE) monitor at CES 2025, featuring a 32-inch IPS display with a 4K resolution (3,840 x 2,160 pixels).
    2. The monitor has a peak refresh rate of 100 Hz and a contrast ratio of 1,500:1, covering 99% of the sRGB color spectrum.
    3. Maximum brightness is limited to 350 nits, and there is no HDR support mentioned.
    4. Connectivity options include lock slots and two soundbar slots, enhancing versatility.
    5. The Pro 32 Plus (P3225QE) is priced at $599.99 and is set to launch globally, although regional pricing details are not confirmed.


    Dell has recently updated its entire lineup of desktop and laptop products in January at CES 2025, and now it has also expanded these changes to its monitor range. Today, the company unveiled a variety of new monitor choices, one of which is the Pro 32 Plus (P3225QE) shown below.

    New Monitor Features

    Set to be available later this week, the Dell Pro 32 Plus (P3225QE) features a 32-inch IPS display that has a native resolution of 3,840 x 2,160 (4K) pixels. It offers a peak refresh rate of 100 Hz, which is lower than the 144 Hz refresh rate provided by last year’s Dell G3223Q (currently priced at $499.99 on Amazon). With a pixel density of 140 PPI and a 16:9 aspect ratio, this monitor boasts a contrast ratio of 1,500:1 and covers 99% of the sRGB color spectrum, in addition to providing viewing angles of up to 178° both horizontally and vertically.

    Connectivity and Specifications

    Sadly, the maximum brightness is limited to 350 nits, and there is no mention of HDR support at all. Dell has instead concentrated on the connectivity options for the Pro 32 Plus (P3225QE), which are detailed below:

    Additionally, Dell includes lock slots and two soundbar slots. The Pro 32 Plus (P3225QE) is set to launch today at a price of $599.99. Although Dell states that the launch is global, it has yet to confirm pricing details for other regions.

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  • Asus Launches New ROG Zephyrus G14 and G16 Gaming Laptops

    Asus Launches New ROG Zephyrus G14 and G16 Gaming Laptops

    Key Takeaways

    1. Asus has started pre-orders for the ROG Zephyrus G14 and G16 laptops, replacing the GA403 and GU605 models.
    2. The ROG Zephyrus G14 is priced starting at $2,499 with an AMD Ryzen AI 9 HX 370 APU, 32 GB of RAM, and an RTX 5070 Ti GPU.
    3. The highest-end ROG Zephyrus G14 model costs $3,199.99 and features an RTX 5080 with the same RAM and storage.
    4. The ROG Zephyrus G16 offers five configurations, priced between $2,799 and $4,599.99, with varying specifications.
    5. The top model of the G16 includes an Intel Core Ultra 9 285H processor, 64 GB of RAM, and an RTX 5090 GPU.


    Asus has kicked off pre-orders for its new ROG Zephyrus G14 and ROG Zephyrus G16 laptops, which take the place of the GA403 and GU605 models (curr. $1,848 on Amazon). Just to remind you, the company unveiled these models last month at CES 2025 in Las Vegas. Asus had mentioned that the ROG Zephyrus G14 and G16 would start at $2,199.99 and $1,999, but those prices are not available yet.

    Pricing Details

    Currently, the ROG Zephyrus G14 is priced starting at $2,499, featuring an AMD Ryzen AI 9 HX 370 APU, 32 GB of RAM, and an RTX 5070 Ti GPU. This leads us to believe Asus will eventually offer an RTX 5070 option at the $2,199.99 price they quoted during CES 2025. On the other hand, the highest-end ROG Zephyrus G14 reaches $3,199.99, equipped with an RTX 5080, while still maintaining 32 GB of RAM and 2 TB of storage like the other configurations.

    ROG Zephyrus G16 Options

    Asus is also launching five different ROG Zephyrus G16 configurations, with prices ranging from $2,799 to $4,599.99. On the lower end, you’ll find an Intel Core Ultra 9 285H processor along with an RTX 5070 Ti GPU, supported by 32 GB of RAM and 2 TB of storage. Meanwhile, the top model of the Zephyrus G16 shares the same processor and storage, but upgrades to an RTX 5090 and bumps the RAM up to 64 GB. For further information, check out Asus’ official website links provided below.

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  • AMD Ryzen AI 7 350 Krackan Point APU Cinebench R23 & 2024 Leak

    AMD Ryzen AI 7 350 Krackan Point APU Cinebench R23 & 2024 Leak

    Key Takeaways

    1. AMD introduced the Ryzen AI 300 series chips, known as Krackan Point, featuring a mix of Zen 5 and Zen 5c cores.
    2. The Ryzen AI 7 350 achieved notable Cinebench R23 scores of 1,943 (single-core) and 14,607 (multicore), outperforming the Ryzen 7 8845HS in single-core performance.
    3. In Cinebench 2024, the Ryzen AI 7 350 scored 114 (single-core) and 820 (multicore), showing similar performance to the Ryzen AI 7 Pro 360.
    4. The Ryzen AI 7 350 was tested on an Asus Lingyao 16 Air, with a thermal design power (TDP) of 28 Watts.
    5. There is currently no information on the global release date for laptops featuring Krackan Point chips.


    At CES 2025, AMD introduced the complete lineup of its Ryzen AI 300 series chips, known as Krackan Point. These new chips incorporate a balanced mix of Zen 5 and Zen 5c cores, differing from Strix Point by using an equal number of each core type. The Ryzen AI 7 350, the highest-performing Kraken Point CPU, has recently been tested on Cinebench by a user on Baidu.

    Cinebench R23 Performance

    In the Cinebench R23 benchmarks, the Ryzen AI 7 350 achieved scores of 1,943 and 14,607 in single-core and multicore tests, respectively. Comparatively, the Ryzen AI 7 Pro 360, which is the most similar model from the Strix Point series, scored 1,958 and 13,794 in those same categories. The scores between the two are quite close, which is to be expected since they share similar specifications. However, the Ryzen AI 7 350 outperforms the Ryzen 7 8845HS based on Hawk Point, which scored 1,766 in single-core but excelled in multicore with 16,161 points.

    Cinebench 2024 Results

    Moving on to Cinebench 2024, the Ryzen AI 7 350 recorded scores of 114 and 820 in the same tests. Here, it once again shows comparable performance to the Ryzen AI 7 Pro 360, which scored 108 and 708. Meanwhile, the Ryzen 7 8845HS demonstrated superior multicore performance with a score of 896 but fell short in single-core performance with only 104 points. This discrepancy is likely due to the eight full-fat Zen 4 cores integrated into the Hawk Point APU.

    Testing Environment and Availability

    The Ryzen AI 7 350 was evaluated on an Asus Lingyao 16 Air, a variant of the Asus ZenBook S16 available solely in China that was also revealed at CES 2025. This APU operates under a thermal design power (TDP) of 28 Watts. As of now, there is no information regarding when Krackan Point laptops will be released for sale globally. However, these benchmarks provide a preliminary understanding of how the Ryzen Z2 Extreme might perform in practical scenarios.

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  • Intel Core Ultra 9 275HX vs Core i9-14900HX in Cinebench R23

    Intel Core Ultra 9 275HX vs Core i9-14900HX in Cinebench R23

    At the CES 2025 event, Intel didn’t provide any official benchmarks for its Arrow Lake HX CPUs. Instead, they made some unclear claims about how much better these new processors perform compared to previous generations, which is notable since this is the first true HX-class CPU from Intel in two generations. However, a leaked score from Cinebench R23 (shared by @94G8LA on X) for the Core Ultra 9 275HX gives us some insight into the situation.

    Performance Insights

    The Core Ultra 9 275HX achieved a score of 2,161 in the Cinebench R23 single-core test. This is a bit lower than what the older Core i9-14900HX managed, which averaged 2,181 points in our benchmark records. On a brighter note, the Core Ultra 9 275HX excelled in the multicore test, scoring 35,481 points, which is an 18% improvement over its Raptor Lake predecessor.

    Future Expectations

    While this score might see slight improvements with upcoming BIOS updates and other tweaks, it’s evident that the Arrow Lake HX series won’t dramatically outpace Raptor Lake, particularly in gaming scenarios. This raises some concerns, especially since many high-end gaming laptops introduced at CES 2025 are equipped with the Core Ultra 9 275HX. Interestingly, Intel also has a higher-spec version called the Core Ultra 9 285HX that hasn’t yet been used in any devices, making one wonder why manufacturers chose the 275HX instead.

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  • Free Smart Monitor with Purchase of New LG Gram Laptop

    Free Smart Monitor with Purchase of New LG Gram Laptop

    LG has launched its latest line of ultra-light laptops, known as the LG Gram 2025 series, during CES 2025. Recently, the company disclosed the pricing and availability for the Gram Book (15U50T) in the US market. This portable device is priced at $749.99 and can be bought directly from LG’s official website. Additionally, LG is providing a $100 discount on the new Gram Book and a complimentary 25-inch MyView Smart Monitor, which is currently priced at $159.99 on Amazon, with any successful purchase from LG.com.

    A Closer Look at the Models

    The 2025 LG Gram series features four different models: the Gram Book, Gram Pro 16, Gram Pro 17, and Gram Pro 2-in-1. Focusing on the Gram Book, it is the most affordable option in LG’s lineup of ultra-light next-generation laptops. Despite its lower price, it still includes impressive features.

    Display and Specs

    This laptop comes with a 15.6-inch LCD anti-glare display with a resolution of 1920 x 1080 pixels and a 16:9 aspect ratio. LG claims the display can reach a peak brightness of 300 nits and fully supports the NTSC color gamut. Under the hood, the laptop is driven by an Intel i5-1334U processor, integrated Intel Iris Xe graphics, 8 GB of DDR4x RAM, and a speedy 512 GB Gen4 NVMe M.2 SSD.

    Dimensions and Connectivity

    In terms of size, the notebook measures 14.16 x 9.37 x 0.76 inches (359.6 x 237.9 x 19.3 mm) and weighs approximately 3.64 lbs (1.7 kg). While it does not support WiFi 7, it is equipped with an Intel WiFi 6 AX203 WLAN card along with Bluetooth 5.2 for all your networking requirements. The laptop houses a 51 Wh Li-ion battery, although LG hasn’t provided specific benchmarks for battery longevity.

    Ports and Additional Features

    The Gram Book includes standard ports such as two USB-A ports, two USB-C ports, an HDMI port, and a 3.5 mm headphone jack, but it lacks a microSD card reader. Other notable features encompass an HD webcam with a privacy shutter, stereo speakers with Dolby Atmos technology, and Gram Link support. The laptop is available only in the Titan Silver color.

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  • Pre-order the Compact and Versatile Flic Duo Smart Button Now

    Pre-order the Compact and Versatile Flic Duo Smart Button Now

    Even in its small size, the Flic Duo really caught the attention of many at CES 2025. Flic buttons are designed to help people who still like physical switches adapt to the smart home trend. The Flic Duo easily converts from a wall switch into a remote control, allowing users to do things like dimming lights or calling for help in emergencies. While specific shipping dates are not yet available, backers of the Flic Launch Campaign can pre-order the smart button for just $49. Others are encouraged to reserve the Flic Duo at its standard price of $59.

    Compact Design

    Measuring just over 2 inches long, the Flic Duo, available in white or black, is quite subtle when attached to walls. This device boasts two tactile buttons along with LED indicators that react to user inputs. Homeowners have the ability to assign both buttons to more than 30 different triggers, making it compatible with almost any smart home system. Although the Flic Duo works with smartphones, it is recommended that users also have the Flic Hub for improved performance.

    Versatile Functionality

    The Flic Duo showcases another side when used as a handheld gadget. This smart switch recognizes a wide range of motion gestures, including holds and twists, which lets users control TV or music volume easily. By using the IFTTT app, even more options become available. This software allows users to link actions across various platforms such as Alexa, Apple HomeKit, and Philips Hue.

    Worth the Investment?

    It’s true that the Flic Duo isn’t the cheapest option, particularly for those looking to equip their homes with multiple units. Nonetheless, Flic reports that over 10,000 units of the Flic Duo have already been pre-ordered. Adding to the excitement, the company is running the Flic Adventure Game on its website, where participants can earn a range of rewards including various goodies and discounts on Flic Duo accessories.

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  • Roborock Saros 10R Robot Vacuum Pricing and Features Leaked

    Roborock Saros 10R Robot Vacuum Pricing and Features Leaked

    The Roborock Saros 10R robot vacuum has been seen on Amazon recently. This model is one of the newest from the brand and was showcased at CES 2025. While the price for the US market has been disclosed, this leak provides insight into what the smart home device will cost in Europe.

    Pricing and Availability

    As per a report by Appgefahren.de, the Saros 10R appeared on Amazon Germany for a brief period on January 24th. The listed price was €1,499. Although the listing now points to the Qrevo Slim, the image displayed is still of the Saros 10R. This model has also been spotted on Amazon France and Spain, and it seems to remain available on Amazon Netherlands, albeit at a higher price of €1,999. Many product details are missing on these pages, hinting that they might have gone live by mistake.

    Features and Specifications

    The Saros 10R stands out as a robust robot vacuum boasting a suction power of up to 19,000 Pa. It features a DuoDivide Main Brush, a FlexiArm Riser Side Brush, and dual spinning mops. Thanks to its new AdaptiLift Chassis technology, this robot can easily navigate over obstacles, such as thresholds up to 4 cm (1.6 inches) high. Additional features include the StarSight Autonomous System 2.0, which utilizes ToF sensors and RGB cameras for effective home navigation, as well as VertiBeam Lateral Obstacle Avoidance.

    Additional Accessories

    Consumers can buy the Saros 10R with the Multifunctional Dock 4.0. This dock provides hot water mop washing, rapid charging, and allows for mops to be detached prior to cleaning carpets. The robot vacuum is notably slim at 7.98 cm (approximately 3.1 inches) tall and is set to support Matter after a future OTA update; currently, it is compatible with Amazon Alexa and Google Home.

    At CES, Roborock indicated that the Saros 10R robot vacuum would be released in both North America and Europe in January. However, the specific launch date remains unannounced. Just as a reminder, the Saros 10R is projected to retail for $1,599.99 in the United States.

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  • Lenovo S130 Pad: New 2-in-1 with 3K Display and Windows 11

    Lenovo S130 Pad: New 2-in-1 with 3K Display and Windows 11

    Lenovo has introduced a variety of new gadgets at CES 2025 this month, which includes laptops and 2-in-1s. Yet, the S130 Pad, a fresh Windows-based 2-in-1 device, was not showcased at the event, but is currently up for grabs in China.

    Processor and Performance

    The S130 Pad is powered solely by the Processor N100 from Intel’s Alder Lake-N series. We had previously evaluated the Processor N100 and its four Crestmont E cores multiple times last year, particularly in the Chuwi Hi10 Max 2-in-1 (available for $399 on Amazon). Overall, the Processor N100 performed admirably in our assessments for its price point, despite having 4 GB less RAM compared to what the S130 Pad can offer.

    Display and Battery Life

    Lenovo states that the S130 Pad comes equipped with a 13.3-inch IPS display that produces a resolution of 3,000 x 2,000 pixels and brightness of 420 nits, all within a compact size of 207.5 x 288.9 x 10.7 mm. Additionally, this device packs a 5,000 mAh battery, which plays a role in its total weight of 768 g, not including the detachable keyboard or stand.

    Pricing Options

    The starting price for the S130 Pad is CNY 2,899 (~$399) for the model with 8 GB of RAM and 256 GB of storage. Alternatively, Lenovo offers the 2-in-1 for CNY 3,199 (~$440) which includes 16 GB of RAM and 512 GB of storage. As for its availability beyond China, there are no updates yet; however, ITHome suggests that the S130 Pad might become a future variant of the IdeaPad Duet 3i.

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