Tag: Expandable Storage

  • Sony Xperia 1 VII Review: Unique Features and Paywall Insights

    Sony Xperia 1 VII Review: Unique Features and Paywall Insights

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Sony Xperia 1 VII excels in image quality, but manual settings are necessary for optimal results.
    2. It features a triple-camera system, including a 48MP primary lens, but lacks a dedicated camera button.
    3. The design is unique with thick bezels, and the device is lightweight and IP68 water and dust resistant.
    4. Internal storage is limited to 256GB, but it supports microSD expansion up to 2TB and includes a 3.5mm headphone jack.
    5. The USB-C port supports high-speed data transfer and video output, but some advanced features require a subscription.

    Those investing €1499 in the Sony Xperia 1 VII likely anticipate top-notch image quality, as the company claims. Our evaluation shows that this is not just marketing talk. However, users should steer clear of the camera’s automatic mode, as this smartphone only outshines its premium rivals when all settings are manually adjusted. For the intended audience, this may not be seen as a downside.

    Camera Specifications

    When it comes to photography, the Sony Xperia 1 VII features a triple-camera array that includes a 48MP primary lens, a 48MP ultra-wide lens, and a 12MP telephoto lens capable of 7.1x optical zoom. Unlike Apple, Sony omitted a dedicated camera button on the right side, a trait that has been part of the Xperia lineup since the original Xperia 1.

    Design and Build Quality

    The fact that Sony is going against the grain with its flagship becomes clear in various aspects, including the design. Weighing in at 6.9 oz (197 grams), the Xperia 1 VII is pleasantly lightweight for a 6.5-inch device. Additionally, it boasts solid construction, a good grip, and is water and dust resistant according to IP68 standards. The aluminum and glass aesthetic doesn’t seem to be the main focus, as seen in the notably thick bezels at the top and bottom of the display. This gives the Xperia 1 VII a unique look compared to other flagship models. Another unconventional aspect for a device in this price range is its internal storage, which is limited to 256GB.

    Storage and Audio Features

    Nonetheless, users can extend the storage by an impressive 2TB through a microSD card, a feature becoming rare in high-end smartphones. The microSD slot also accommodates a SIM card and is designed for easy access without tools. Similarly, the Xperia 1 VII includes a 3.5mm headphone jack, a rarity these days. With a signal-to-noise ratio of 99.84 dBFS, this jack ensures very low noise levels. If you own quality headphones or external speakers, Sony’s flagship phone offers excellent audio performance.

    USB-C and Subscription Features

    Another notable aspect is the USB-C port on the Xperia 1 VII, which supports USB 3.1 Gen.1 speeds. In tests using an external Samsung 980 Pro SSD, it achieved a commendable 316.5 Mbps. Moreover, the USB-C port can also facilitate wired video output to HDMI or DisplayPort devices. However, a feature intended for camera enthusiasts is hidden behind a subscription paywall. The capability to utilize Xperia phones as external monitors for Sony cameras via USB-C is still available through Sony’s Monitor & Control App, but it comes at a cost. To access this feature, users must subscribe for €4.99 per month for the so-called “Basic” plan.

    Source:
    Link

     

    Tags: , ,
  • PNY microSD Express Cards for Nintendo Switch 2: 128GB & 256GB

    PNY microSD Express Cards for Nintendo Switch 2: 128GB & 256GB

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Switch 2 supports faster expandable storage with microSD Express cards, specifically PNY’s new offerings of 128GB and 256GB models.
    2. PNY’s microSD Express cards deliver high performance, with read speeds up to 890 MB/s and write speeds up to 750 MB/s, significantly faster than UHS-I cards.
    3. The cards are designed for durability, managing heat effectively and resisting magnets, water, and impacts, making them suitable for portable devices like the Switch 2.
    4. PNY’s microSD Express cards are backward compatible with the original Switch and can also be used with other devices like smartphones and action cameras.
    5. Other brands like Lexar, Samsung, and SanDisk offer microSD Express cards, with options like the Lexar 1TB Play PRO for users seeking higher storage capacities.

    One of the key benefits of the Switch 2 specifications is its support for quicker expandable storage options. However, this new handheld system only works with more expensive microSD Express cards. PNY has just introduced its latest offerings, featuring a 128GB version priced at $44.99 and a 256GB model available for $55.99. Both microSD Express cards can be found now on Amazon and at PNY’s own store.

    Capacities and Performance

    Capacities: 128GB-256GB
    Format: microSDXC
    Interface: PCIe Gen3x1 UHS-I
    Speed Class: Class 10, U3
    Video Speed Class: V30
    App Performance: A1
    Read Performance: Up to 890MB/s
    Write Speed: Up to 750MB/s
    Compatibility: MicroSD Express host devices, including Nintendo Switch 2. Also works with microSD UHS-I and UHS-II devices.

    The microSD Express standard offers speeds that are up to 4.4 times quicker than UHS-I microSD cards that were compatible with the original Switch. This means that the new PNY cards can read data at rates of up to 890 MB/s and achieve maximum write speeds of 750 MB/s. PNY states that the PCIe Gen3x1 interface leads to faster loading times which are ideal for the most demanding games on the Switch 2.

    Design and Durability

    Given that the Switch 2 is a portable device, PNY has engineered its microSD Express cards to manage heat effectively. Sensors track temperature and make necessary changes as conditions vary. These cards are also designed to resist magnets, electrical shocks, water, and impacts from significant heights.

    The specifications for Switch 2 include an internal storage capacity of 256GB for games and data. However, its dependence on Game-Key Cards and digital downloads can quickly consume that space. PNY’s compact storage solution is backward compatible with the original Switch, though the older model does limit speeds. Additionally, they can also be used to expand storage on smartphones, tablets, action cameras, and various other gadgets.

    Other Options

    Other brands to look into for microSD Express cards include Lexar, Samsung, and SanDisk. For those seeking the highest specifications, the Lexar 1TB Play PRO boasts read speeds that reach up to 900 MB/s. However, the performance of the PNY cards is quite comparable. Plus, the 128GB and 256GB versions are some of the most budget-friendly options. Still, shoppers will need to check other sources for 512GB and 1TB variants.

    Source:
    Link

    PNY microSD Express Cards for Nintendo Switch 2: 128GB & 256GBPNY microSD Express Cards for Nintendo Switch 2: 128GB & 256GB
    Tags: ,
  • Lenovo Legion Tab Gen 4: Missing Feature Confirmed for Gaming Tablet

    Lenovo Legion Tab Gen 4: Missing Feature Confirmed for Gaming Tablet

    Key Takeaways

    1. The Lenovo Legion gaming tablet, powered by Snapdragon 8 Elite, will be released in May 2025 and will feature expandable storage.
    2. The previous Lenovo Legion Tab Gen 3 lacks expandable storage, while the Gen 2 offers a microSD card slot for storage expansion up to 1 TB.
    3. The RedMagic Nova gaming tablet, also using Snapdragon 8 Gen 3, does not have an expandable card slot, similar to the Gen 3 Legion tablet.
    4. The upcoming Legion Tab Gen 4 will include a TF card slot for storage expansion, which is compatible with microSD cards.
    5. Lenovo’s Legion Tab Gen 4 will feature an 8.8-inch display with “3K” resolution and a refresh rate of 165 Hz, with more details expected soon.

    The Lenovo Legion gaming tablet, powered by Snapdragon 8 Elite, is scheduled for release in May 2025. Recently, the company unveiled the design details of the tablet, and a teaser post has confirmed a welcomed feature: expandable storage.

    A Look Back at Previous Models

    In contrast to the Lenovo Legion Tab Gen 3, which utilizes the Snapdragon 8 Gen 3, there is no option for expandable storage. However, its predecessor, the Gen 2 gaming tablet, includes a microSD card slot that allows storage expansion up to 1 TB (1 TB Samsung Evo Select currently priced at $69.99 on Amazon).

    The Competition’s Move

    Lenovo isn’t alone in leaving out this feature in its latest offering. The RedMagic Nova, another gaming tablet equipped with the Snapdragon 8 Gen 3, also lacks an expandable card slot. Lenovo has stated that the Gen 4 will include a TF card slot, which isn’t really any different from a microSD card slot.

    Indeed, both TF and microSD cards operate under the same standard and can be used in place of each other, just branded differently. Still, the reintroduction of this feature in the upcoming Snapdragon 8 Elite Lenovo gaming tablet will provide users with a straightforward way to expand their storage.

    What’s Next for Lenovo and RedMagic

    RedMagic is also in the process of developing a Snapdragon 8 Elite gaming tablet, and it’s likely to include expandable storage options as well. Regarding the other specifications of the Legion Tab Gen 4, Lenovo has confirmed the device will feature an 8.8-inch display, anticipated to have a “3K” resolution and a refresh rate of 165 Hz, along with a rear camera. More information is expected to be announced soon.

    Source:
    Link

    Lenovo Legion Tab Gen 4: Missing Feature Confirmed for Gaming Tablet
    Tags: , ,