Half of 2026 has now passed, signaling the time for our semi-annual retrospective. Each year around this With half of 2026 already behind us, it’s time for our semi‑annual check‑in. Around this time each year, we handpick a handful of standout smartphones to gauge how the market has performed over the first two quarters. Since next‑gen flagship chips usually arrive in the second half, the opening months tend to be a relatively quiet stretch for most brands — but that doesn’t mean there’s nothing worth talking about.

Best Camera: OPPO Find X9 Ultra

It does not imply a shortage of commendable devices. A prime example is our most highly recommended camera-centric smartphone: the OPPO Find X9 Ultra.

The imaging prowess of the Find X9 Ultra is widely acknowledged. It stands as one of only two flagship smartphones to incorporate a four-focal-length imaging system. In my assessment, it features the most sophisticated telephoto camera configuration ever integrated into a mobile device—both in terms of sensor selection and focal-length coverage. Coupled with Hasselblad’s color calibration, it has unequivocally become one of my preferred handsets this year.

That said, it is not without imperfections. The 10x telephoto module exhibits noticeable chromatic aberration, and video stabilization remains an area requiring refinement. Nevertheless, when compared to a more conservative yet reliably competent contender like the vivo X300 Ultra, the review team leans toward the device with greater distinctiveness.

The X300 Ultra is objectively a commendable smartphone, but its 2026 iteration felt overly restrained in its approach. The absence of a refreshing novelty is the sole factor, in my view, that places it behind the Find X9 Ultra. Naturally, this reflects my subjective perspective; should one regard the vivo X300 Ultra as the premier camera phone of the year, I fully respect that position.

The Find X9 Ultra is undeniably excellent, yet its pricing is prohibitively steep. Consequently, the question arises: is there a more cost-effective camera-centric alternative? Indeed, there is—the HUAWEI Pura 90s Pro Max.

Leading Smart Imaging Experience: HUAWEI Pura 90s Pro Max

HUAWEI Pura 90s Pro Max deserves a special mention — not just for the hardware integration, but more importantly, for what it can further do on final imaging. The Asia‑Pacific variant we received comes packed with AI De‑Glare, AI Move, and AI Composition 3.0, which automatically frames your shots as you capture them. Celia and the Advanced Translation Toolkit are also onboard.

While other manufacturers are aggressively fighting spec wars, HUAWEI has been strategically doubling down on the AI experience—a focus the team finds particularly commendable. The Pura 90s Pro Max doesn’t hold back on hardware either. Its RYYB sensor yields outstanding low-light output, and the telephoto video recording sharpness is particularly noteworthy.

The review team initially planned to give this recognition to the Pura 90 Pro Max — the Chinese version. But HUAWEI did something unusual this time: it didn’t cut corners on the international version. The two models are essentially identical. So, despite the slightly later launch, I’m giving the nod to the Pura 90s Pro Max — simply because it’s the more readily accessible option for most of our audience.

The 200MP telephoto camera, built on an RYYB sensor, offers improved light sensitivity for long‑range shots, while the telephoto video recording now benefits from enhanced stabilisation and a dedicated far‑field voice enhancement algorithm—useful for capturing distant subjects with clearer audio. The XMAGE AI Smart Capture streamlines the editing workflow by providing one‑tap suggestions for composition, colour, and exposure adjustments. The new 3D dynamic photo feature adds a subtle depth effect to still images, giving them a more lifelike feel without requiring manual post‑processing. When taken together, these improvements offer a tangible step forward in smartphone imaging, and they work consistently across both the Chinese and Asia‑Pacific versions—making the Pura 90s Pro Max a well‑rounded choice for users who prioritise camera versatility and AI‑assisted creativity.

Best Gaming Phone: REDMI K90 Max

Typically, the “Best Gaming Phone” accolade would automatically be assigned to RedMagic. On this occasion, however, we wish to confer it upon the REDMI K90 Max, for two primary reasons. First, the K90 Max is more affordable; it incorporates a built-in cooling fan, is lighter and slimmer, yet retails at merely half the price of the RedMagic 11S Pro.

Second, its frame-interpolation functionality sets it apart. On most smartphones, frame interpolation is restricted to a whitelist of supported games. The K90 Max, in contrast, enables this feature across all titles without limitation. After extensive testing across multiple games, its performance consistently met expectations. The review team can confidently assert that this currently represents the most worthwhile gaming smartphone available, without reservation.

Naturally, this accolade could equally be awarded to its sibling model, the K90 Ultra. The decision between the two ultimately hinges on whether the user prioritizes enhanced performance or a $60 cost saving.

Best Foldable: HUAWEI Pura X Max

Although our comprehensive review of the HUAWEI Pura X Max has not yet been published, this does not preclude me from designating it as the “Best Foldable.” =

In fact, commencing with last year’s Pura X, HUAWEI had already initiated experimentation with wider aspect ratios to prevent the display from awkwardly assuming a square form upon unfolding. This year’s Pura X Max adopts a √2:1 aspect ratio, ensuring that the device maintains a consistent screen proportion whether folded or unfolded. This represents HUAWEI’s definitive resolution to the foldable-screen ratio challenge.

The Pura X Max’s robust sales performance in the Chinese market further substantiates its entitlement to the title of best foldable phone for the first half of 2026.

Best Flagship Killer: OnePlus 15T

For those seeking a flagship-grade device without a correspondingly steep price, the OnePlus 15T may prove an ideal candidate. Apart from the absence of an ultra-wide-angle camera and the somewhat inconvenient USB 2.0 port, this handset is nearly faultless.

It is equipped with the 8 Elite Gen5 platform, a 165Hz display, a substantial 7,500mAh battery, and wireless charging support. For enthusiasts of compact 6.3-inch smartphones operating within constrained budgets, this device is virtually tailor-made.

Incidentally, for those who prefer a conventionally sized smartphone, the iQOO 15T merits consideration. Its market positioning closely parallels that of the OnePlus 15T—both devices compromise on camera performance to maintain competitive pricing. Ultimately, the choice reduces to individual preference, with no unequivocally superior option between the two.

To be candid, the first half of 2026 lacked considerable excitement. Most of the noteworthy activity stemmed from flagship camera phones competing for dominance, while the majority of mid-range and entry-level devices are slated for release in the latter half of the year.

Among all offerings observed in Q1 and Q2, the most strategic maneuver was arguably HUAWEI’s decision to maintain price stability. This approach proved remarkably successful, enabling the company to achieve substantial profitability in the premium smartphone segment and securing two “Best” titles in this roundup.

With the next generation of flagship chipsets anticipated in September, most 8 Elite Gen5 and Dimensity 9500 devices are already undergoing price reductions to clear inventory. Therefore, for those seeking cost savings, the present moment presents an opportune time for acquisition.

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A gaming PC or console is only as good as the display it’s connected to. You could have the latest graphics card pushing triple digit frame rates, but if your monitor is stuck at 60Hz, you are leaving a lot of performance on the table. However, a right gaming monitor can make all the difference, letting you get the best possible gaming experience.

The good news is that gaming monitors have become far more affordable over the years. Today, you can easily find Full HD and QHD gaming monitors with high refresh rates and fast response times without stretching your budget. To make your search easier, we’ve rounded up some of the best budget gaming monitors you can buy in India.

How to choose a gaming monitor

When buying a gaming monitor, most people just look at the refresh rate. But that’s just not it. There are multiple factors you need to consider before choosing a gaming monitor.

You can start by deciding the resolution that matches your graphics card. Full HD (1920 x 1080) remains the sweet spot for competitive gaming, while QHD (2560 x 1440) delivers sharper visuals and is ideal if you have a mid-range or high-end GPU. A 4K monitor offers incredible detail, but you’ll need powerful hardware to drive modern games smoothly. But, if you are limited by a budget, going for a 4K monitor isn’t a great idea.

Refresh rate is the next thing to consider. A 120Hz monitor already feels significantly smoother than a standard 60Hz panel, while 144Hz, 165Hz, and even 240Hz displays provide an extra edge in fast-paced shooters like Valorant and CS2. Pair that with a low response time of 1ms or less to minimise ghosting during intense gameplay.

Finally, pay attention to the panel type and adaptive sync technology. IPS panels generally offer better colours and viewing angles, making them suitable for both gaming and content creation. VA panels usually deliver deeper blacks and stronger contrast for immersive single-player games. Also look out for AMD FreeSync or NVIDIA G-Sync compatibility, to help eliminate screen tearing and stuttering.

7 best budget gaming monitors

Acer Vero V247Y

If you are stepping into PC gaming for the first time or upgrading from a standard office monitor, the Acer V247Y is an good budget pick. It sports a 24-inch Full HD IPS panel with a 120Hz refresh rate and AdaptiveSync support, which will make the gameplay feel significantly smoother than your standard 60Hz screen.

While it’s a decent panel for gaming, it has one major drawback, and that’s the 4ms response time. It’s slower than the 1ms offered by many newer gaming monitors, but casual gamers are unlikely to notice the difference. However, competitive FPS players may experience slightly more motion blur during fast-paced gameplay.

That said, if you are going to play competitive titles, you’d want to look out for the next monitor on this list. But if you are shopping on a tight budget and plan to play casually, you can still go with the Acer V247Y.

MSI MAG 255F E20

The MSI MAG 255F E20 offers serious value, especially for competitive gamers. It packs a 24.5-inch Full HD Rapid IPS panel with a 200Hz refresh rate, a 0.5ms response time, and AMD FreeSync Premium support, making fast-paced games feel incredibly smooth and responsive.

So, if you play esports titles like Valorant, CS2, or Apex Legends, this is one of the best gaming monitors you can buy in its segment. It also comes with added features like HDR support and AI Vision to enhance your viewing experience.

Lenovo Legion 24-10

The Lenovo Legion 24-10 is another option that can be safely called the most complete gaming monitor on a budget. While it gets the standard 23.8-inch Full HD IPS panel, fast 180Hz refresh rate, and 0.5ms response time, it stands out with factory-calibrated colour accuracy (99% sRGB) and an ergonomic stand with height, swivel, and tilt adjustments.

These are features you don’t often find in this price range, making it a great choice for both action-adventure games, like RDR2, and competitive FPS titles, like Valorant and CS2.

BenQ EW270Q

If you are ready to move beyond Full HD, and your PC has the horsepower to drive it, the BenQ EW270Q is a great QHD gaming monitor on a budget. It features a larger 27-inch QHD (2560 x 1440) IPS display with a 200Hz refresh rate, offering noticeably sharper visuals and smoother gameplay. The larger screen also makes open-world and story-driven games feel far more immersive.

Despite its bigger display, the monitor still delivers a fast 1ms response time, making it equally capable in competitive FPS titles. Unlike many gaming monitors in this segment, the EW270Q also comes with built-in speakers, so you won’t necessarily need a separate pair of speakers or headphones for casual gaming.

LG UltraGear 32GS60QC

If you enjoy getting lost in story-driven games, the LG UltraGear 32GS60QC should be your pick. Its boasts a larger 32-inch QHD display and 1000R curved panel that will pull you deeper into the action. What that means is everything from sprawling open worlds to racing simulators will feel more immersive. The extra screen real estate also makes it a great option for watching movies.

As for the other features, it supports a 180Hz refresh rate, a 1ms response time, and support for AMD FreeSync Premium, so it can comfortably handle fast-paced FPS titles as well.

Alienware AW252HM

This one’s for serious competitive gamers. The Alienware AW2525HM is built for esports gaming, featuring a modest 24.5-inch Full HD display that lets you see the entire screen at a glance, making it easier to spot opponents and react quickly in games like Valorant, CS2, and Rainbow Six Siege.

Its biggest highlight is the ultra-fast 320Hz refresh rate, paired with a 0.5ms response time, and AMD FreeSync Premium support for a smoother gameplay. The monitor also gets a sturdy build quality and adjustable stand, that supports tilt and swivel moments.

Samsung Odyssey 27

The Samsung Odyssey G5 is one of the most premium QHD monitor in this price segment. It features a 27-inch QHD IPS display for a crisp picture and a 180Hz refresh rate for a smoother gameplay. It also comes with a 1ms response time, NVIDIA G-Sync Compatibility, and AMD FreeSync Premium support for a smooth, tear-free gaming experience.

To top it off, you get a fully ergonomic stand with height, tilt, swivel, and pivot adjustments. And despite being part of Samsung’s premium Odyssey lineup, it’s still priced at around Rs 20,000, making it one of the best value-for-money QHD gaming monitors you can buy today.

What is the best budget gaming monitor?

The Lenovo Legion 24-10 is currently the best budget gaming monitor in India, as it offers 180Hz refresh rate, a fast 0.5ms response time, an IPS panel with 99% sRGB colour coverage, and a fully ergonomic stand.

Which gaming monitor offers the best value for money?

The MSI MAG 255F E20 offers the best value for money, as it supports the fastest 200Hz refresh rate in the segment, a 0.5ms response time, and AMD FreeSync Premium support at a competitive price.

Which is the best QHD gaming monitor?

The BenQ EW270Q is currently the best QHD gaming monitor you can buy on a budget, as it features a larger 27-inch QHD IPS display, 200Hz refresh rate, 1ms response time, and built-in speakers.

Which gaming monitor is best for FPS games?

The Alienware AW2525HM is the best option for competitive FPS games, as it supports 320Hz refresh rate and 0.5ms response time, making it ideal for titles like Valorant, CS2, and Rainbow Six Siege.

Should I buy a 24-inch, 27-inch, or 32-inch gaming monitor?

A 24-inch monitor is best for FPS games, a 27-inch monitor offers the best balance for both competitive and immersive gaming, while a 32-inch monitor is ideal for cinematic, story-driven games. But if you are choosing a 32-inch monitor, make sure it has a QHD display for the best viewing experience.

So, which of these gaming monitors is your pick? Let us know in the comments below.

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Xiaomi is well-known for its wide range of gadgets, though historically, many of these products launched exclusively in China and never reached the global market. In recent years, however, Xiaomi has steadily expanded its Mijia ecosystem to many other countries, making these smart home devices much more accessible.

If you live in one of these regions, you now have a variety of practical, well-designed appliances to choose from. In this article, we are going to talk about the Xiaomi Mijia gadgets that you can actually buy in 2026.

Mijia Smart Air Purifier 6 Plus

Indoor air quality is a common concern, and the Mijia Smart Air Purifier 6 Plus addresses it with a straightforward, high-capacity approach. Designed for larger living spaces, it can cover up to 91 square meters. It uses a dual-impeller and dual-filter structure, which allows it to pull in air from three sides and output it from two. This design helps it cycle the air in a standard room quite quickly.

Beyond standard HEPA filtration, it includes a UVC module intended to reduce airborne bacteria and viruses, alongside an activated carbon layer for odors and formaldehyde. The inclusion of five distinct sensors, including a dedicated PM1 sensor for ultra-fine particles, means the device can adjust its fan speed accurately based on real-time air quality. It is a quiet, capable appliance that simply does its job in the background.

Xiaomi Robot Vacuum 6 Max

Robot vacuums have improved significantly over the years, and the Xiaomi Robot Vacuum 6 Max incorporates several features that solve common automated cleaning frustrations. The vacuum comes with the bionic dual mechanical leg system, which allows it to lift itself over thresholds and single steps up to 6cm high. If your home has uneven flooring or thick rugs, this prevents the vacuum from getting stuck.

It also features a retractable LiDAR sensor that physically lowers to help the vacuum fit under low-clearance furniture, reaching spaces as low as 9.3cm. For cleaning performance, it offers a strong 35,000Pa suction capacity and an extendable side brush to reach into corners. The base station handles the maintenance, washing the mop pads with 85°C water and drying them with warm air, which keeps maintenance to a minimum.

Mijia Air Conditioner GentleAir 5.2 kW

Standard air conditioners often create uncomfortable drafts of cold air. The Mijia Air Conditioner GentleAir 5.2 kW mitigates this using micro-hole air flaps. By pushing the air through these tiny perforations, the unit softens the airflow, cooling the room without blowing a harsh, direct breeze on anyone sitting nearby.

It is also designed for efficiency. It features a full DC inverter system and a cloud-based AI energy-saving mode that optimizes power usage based on your habits and the room’s temperature, potentially lowering energy consumption by around 20%. With a low-noise operation mode that drops down to 20dB(A) and smart scheduling via the Xiaomi Home app, it is a very practical upgrade for a bedroom or home office.

Mijia Compact Portable Electric Air Compressor

This is the kind of tool that is easy to store and very useful to have on hand. Weighing only 240g, this portable air compressor is compact enough to fit in a glovebox or a backpack. Despite its small size, it can output up to 150psi, making it suitable for bicycles, electric scooters, motorcycles, and sports balls.

It runs on a 2000mAh internal battery, which holds enough charge to top up a car tire in an emergency. The interface is simple: you select a preset mode (like bicycle or ball), and the device automatically stops inflating once it reaches the correct pressure. It also includes a built-in light for nighttime use, making it a reliable utility gadget.

Mijia Electric Wine Opener

Opening a bottle of wine shouldn’t require a struggle, and the Mijia Electric Wine Opener provides a clean, automated solution. It features a simple two-button design and a built-in foil cutter. You place it over the neck of the bottle, press the uncork button, and an internal motor removes the cork in about 10 seconds.

Pressing the second button releases the cork from the device. It weighs 244g and has a matte, skin-friendly finish that makes it comfortable to hold. It is a small, specific tool, but it performs its task smoothly and quietly.

Mijia Electric Shaver Pro

The Mijia Electric Shaver Pro offers a comfortable, close shave without the premium price tag often associated with high-end grooming brands. It utilizes a magnetic levitation linear motor and durable ceramic blades that resist wear over time.

The floating shaver heads adjust to the contours of your face, reducing the need to press hard against the skin. It is fully IPX7 waterproof, meaning it can be easily rinsed under the tap or used in the shower. The battery life is dependable, and it charges via a standard USB-C port, making it very convenient for travel.

Mijia Vacuum Cleaner 4 Pro

For spot cleaning and deep carpet vacuuming, the cordless Mijia Vacuum Cleaner 4 Pro is a very capable companion to a robot vacuum. It provides strong suction and features an anti-tangle brush design that cuts hair as it cleans, which is particularly useful for pet owners.

The vacuum also includes a green laser dust detection system built into the main floor head. It illuminates fine dust, dirt, and small debris on hard floors that can be difficult to spot under normal lighting. This practical feature helps reveal hidden messes in real time, making it easier to clean more thoroughly and avoid leaving dust behind.

Mijia Smart Steam Air Fryer 7L

Air fryers are convenient, but they can sometimes dry out certain foods. The Mijia Smart Steam Air Fryer 7L addresses this by adding a micro-steam injection feature. By introducing a small amount of steam during the cooking cycle, it helps retain moisture inside the food while still crisping the outside.

The 7-liter capacity is large enough to handle meals for a family, easily accommodating a whole chicken or large batches of vegetables. The controls are managed through a simple OLED dial on the front, and like most Mijia products, it connects to the app so you can monitor cooking times remotely.

Mijia Body Composition Scale S400 Pro

If you like to track your health metrics, the S400 Pro is a detailed and accurate tool. It uses dual-frequency bioelectrical impedance analysis (BIA) to measure more than just your weight. It provides data on body fat percentage, muscle mass, water retention, and visceral fat.

It can even measure your standing heart rate. The scale features a clean, tempered glass design that looks unobtrusive in a bathroom. All the data syncs automatically to the Xiaomi health app, allowing you to track your trends over time without having to log anything manually.

Mijia Smart Electric Toothbrush Pro

Electric toothbrushes have become increasingly sophisticated, and this model focuses on improving your brushing technique. It uses a servo-oscillation motor that vibrates while sweeping at a 60-degree angle, which mimics the dentist-recommended Bass brushing method for better plaque removal along the gumline.

The handle features a small color screen that displays your brushing time and alerts you if you missed any zones in your mouth. It also has a pressure sensor that flashes red and reduces the motor’s power if you press too hard, protecting your gums from damage. With a battery that lasts up to 180 days on a single charge, it is incredibly low maintenance.

Mijia Capsule Coffee Machine

Rounding out the list is the Mijia Capsule Coffee Machine. It is a compact, straightforward appliance designed for people who want a quick cup of coffee without a complicated brewing process. It uses a 19Bar ULKA pump to ensure consistent water pressure and features a rapid heating system that is ready to brew in 25 seconds.

It supports most standard coffee capsules, operates quietly at around 55dB(A), and includes a magnetic capsule holder for convenient storage. Its compact design makes it well suited for small kitchens and limited counter space.

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The post The Best Xiaomi Mijia Gadgets You Can Actually Buy in 2026 appeared first on Gizmochina.

July 2026 was mostly centered around Samsung. The company unveiled its latest foldable phones and the anticipated One UI 9.0 software. We also saw a couple of mid-range phones, including the Oppo Reno 16 series and Nothing Phone (4b). Now, as we approach August, companies have begun announcing their launch plans for the month.

The Google Pixel 11 series will steal the spotlight, bringing a new-generation Tensor chipset, upgraded AI features, and an improved camera setup with a Pixel Glow LED on the back. There will be a couple of new mid-range phones from Vivo and iQOO, while POCO will launch an affordable POCO M8 Power 5G phone.

Top 5 upcoming smartphone launches in August 2026

1. Google Pixel 11 series

Launch date: August 12, 2026 (confirmed)

Google will unveil the upcoming Pixel 11 series at the ‘Made by Google’ event on August 12, with pre-orders confirmed to begin the same day. Following last year’s pattern, Google is expected to announce four new phones in the lineup: Pixel 11, Pixel 11 Pro, Pixel 11 Pro XL, and Pixel 11 Pro Fold.

All Pixel 11 series phones will be powered by a new Tensor G6 processor, manufactured using a 2nm process. There won’t likely be a 128GB model this year. The phones will instead have a base storage of 256GB. The phones will offer upgraded camera hardware and better computational photography.

We’re expecting to see upgraded Gemini AI capabilities as well as some new ones on the Pixel 11 series. Another exciting addition will be the “Pixel Glow” LED integrated into the rear camera bar. It’s a multi-colored light array, which is said to flash or pulse subtle light patterns to signal incoming alerts, similar to the Glyph Interface on Nothing phones.

Expected price: The standard Pixel 11 is rumored to have a starting price of $899 (about Rs 87000). The Pixel 11 Pro could begin at $1099 (about Rs 1.05 lakh), while the Pixel 11 Pro XL could begin at $1299 (about Rs 1.25 lakh). The Pixel 11 Pro Fold is expected to start at $1899 (about Rs 1.82 lakh).

2. iQOO Z11

Launch: August 2026 (expected)

iQOO is planning to unveil the iQOO Z11 in India as the third phone in the lineup. While there’s no official launch date yet, sources familiar with the matter claim that it will be unveiled in August.

The iQOO Z11 has already been launched in China, but the Indian variant will have different hardware. The Chinese model comes with a Dimensity 8500 processor, while the Indian model will carry a Dimensity 7500. The handset will be equipped with a 3D curved display in India.

Other specs are likely to remain the same. So, we can expect the iQOO Z11 (Indian model) to have a 6.83-inch AMOLED screen, a 9020mAh battery with 90W fast charging, and strong connectivity features. It may feature a dual rear camera setup led by a 50MP sensor and a 32MP selfie snapper.

Expected price: The base variant of iQOO Z11 is expected to be priced under INR 30,000 (about $315).  

3. Vivo V80 series

Launch: August 2026 (expected)

The camera-focused Vivo V80 series is also expected to drop in August with upgraded hardware and design. According to recent leaks, the standard V80 will feature a 6.59-inch flat display with 1.5K resolution and 144Hz refresh rate.

The phone is said to retain the Snapdragon 7 Gen 4 chipset from its predecessor but packs a larger 7200mAh battery with 90W fast charging support.

Vivo V80 is tipped to feature a triple rear camera setup comprising a 50MP primary camera, a 50MP periscope telephoto camera, and an 8MP ultrawide shooter. The selfie camera is said to have a 50MP resolution. The phone is expected to feature a 3D ultrasonic fingerprint scanner, an aluminum alloy frame, and an IP69 rating.

Expected price: The Vivo V80 is expected to be priced around INR 60,000 (about $630) for the base model with 8GB of RAM and 256GB of storage.

4. POCO M8 Power 5G

Launch: August 4, 2026 (confirmed)

The budget-friendly POCO M8 Power 5G is launching in the first week of August, and is officially confirmed to be sold via Flipkart. Official teasers confirm that the device will have an 8000mAh battery, an AMOLED screen, and a 50MP primary camera on the back.

POCO has also teased an orange color option for the POCO M8 Power 5G. As for the rest of the specifications, the device is said to feature a 7.0-inch screen with a 120Hz refresh rate, a Snapdragon 4 Gen 4 processor, an IP65 rating, and 45W fast charging support.

Expected price: The POCO M8 Power 5G will be a pocket-friendly smartphone, with prices likely to stay below INR 20,000 (about $200).

5. Vivo S2

Launch: August 2026 (expected)

Vivo is reviving its S-series in India. The series’s last phone, Vivo S1, was released seven years ago, and soon, we’ll have its successor, Vivo S2. While the company hasn’t announced a launch date yet, the microsite is already live on Amazon, hinting at an imminent release. Some leaks suggest that the phone could be unveiled on August 6, with sales going live on August 11.

The Vivo S2 is said to feature a 6.59-inch AMOLED screen, a MediaTek Dimensity 7360 processor, and a 7000mAh battery with 80W fast charging support. The dual rear camera setup is rumored to include a 50MP primary camera and an 8MP ultrawide camera, while the front side is expected to boast a 32MP camera.

Expected price: The Vivo S2 is expected to be priced at INR 38,000 (about $400) for the 128GB storage option and INR 43,000 (about $500) for the 256GB storage option.

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Samsung recently announced the Galaxy Z Flip 8, following up on last year’s Galaxy Z Flip 7. Looking at the two devices side by side, the differences aren’t immediately obvious.

The Flip 8 is a bit thinner, slightly lighter, and places a heavier emphasis on software features. It also comes with a higher price tag. If you are trying to decide between the two, here is a look at what has actually changed.

Design and Display

The Galaxy Z Flip 7 was already a relatively compact phone, measuring 13.7mm thick and weighing 188 grams. For the Flip 8, Samsung managed to trim those numbers down further. The new model weighs 180 grams and measures 6.1mm when unfolded, compared to the Flip 7’s 6.5mm.

It is a modest reduction, but in the foldable space, small changes in weight and thickness can make a device more comfortable to hold and carry in a pocket. Samsung also says improvements to the hinge mechanism and the Armor Aluminum frame for better overall durability.

The displays, however, remain unchanged. Both phones feature a 4.1-inch Super AMOLED cover screen, which Samsung calls the FlexWindow, and a 6.9-inch internal display with a 120Hz adaptive refresh rate. If you liked the large outer screen on the Flip 7, you will get the exact same viewing experience on the Flip 8.

Performance and Software

The internal hardware sees a standard year-over-year update. The Flip 7 runs on a 3nm Exynos 2500, while the Flip 8 moves to a 2nm Exynos 2600 (or the Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5, depending on your region). Both devices come standard with 12GB of RAM.

The main focus for the Flip 8 is how it uses that new processor for software. The Flip 7 introduced features like Gemini Live and the Now Brief widget on the cover screen, and the Flip 8 builds on this out of the box with Android 17 and One UI 9. The aim is to make the cover screen more functional without needing to open the phone, allowing you to trigger specific app actions via voice or a dedicated side key.

The Flip 8 also introduces the AI Assistant Activity Dashboard, which lets users see exactly what these background tasks are doing and manage their permissions for better transparency. However, this won’t be exclusive to the new model, as the Flip 7 will also receive the dashboard when it gets updated to One UI 9.

Cameras

If you were looking for new camera hardware, the Flip 8 doesn’t offer it. It uses the same 50MP main sensor, 12MP ultra-wide lens, and 10MP front-facing camera as the Flip 7.

The software experience is also largely similar, as both phones feature the ProVisual Engine for improved portrait shots and the Camcorder Grip mode that offers zoom controls when the phone is folded at a 90-degree angle.

The main addition to the Flip 8 is a new stabilization feature called Super Steady with Horizontal Lock. It is designed to keep your video level and suppress motion tilt, making recording on the go a bit easier and more stable.

Battery and Pricing

Battery capacity remains identical across both generations. The Flip 7 featured a 4,300mAh battery, which provided solid daily usage, and the Flip 8 keeps that same capacity. Both phones also support 25W wired charging and 15W wireless charging.

The most significant change for buyers might be the cost. The Galaxy Z Flip 7 started at $1,099 for the 256GB model. The Galaxy Z Flip 8 raises the entry price by $100, starting at $1,199, with the 512GB version priced at $1,399.

Verdict

The Galaxy Z Flip 8 is a straightforward, iterative update. It takes the foundation of the Flip 7, slims it down slightly, and adds a newer processor alongside some helpful software tools. However, the $100 price increase makes it a tougher sell for anyone looking for an accessible foldable.

If you currently own a Galaxy Z Flip 7, there is very little reason to upgrade. The hardware is too similar to justify the cost. But if you’re upgrading from a Flip 5 or an older slab phone, the Flip 8 represents the most polished, refined clamshell foldable Samsung has ever built. You just have to be willing to pay the premium for it.

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Let’s face it: the golden era of the ₹15,000 budget smartphone is officially dead. If you’ve been paying attention to the tech industry in 2026, you already know the grim reality. We are currently grappling with a relentless global chip and memory shortage, and manufacturers have predictably passed those costs down to us.

Just a year ago, you could snag a highly capable daily driver for under 15K without breaking a sweat. Today? That price bracket has violently breached the ₹20,000 mark.

If you are looking to upgrade in mid-2026, here are the absolute best budget smartphones you can buy right now.

CMF Phone 2 Pro

Although a chip price crisis prevented CMF from releasing a new model this year, the company continues to sell the previous version without raising the price. Starting at ₹18,999, the CMF Phone 2 Pro by Nothing remains highly distinctive thanks to its modular design.

It retains the customizable back cover from the first generation, which users can easily unscrew to switch colors or attach various accessories, such as a kickstand, a lanyard, or specialized macro and fisheye lenses.

Beyond the design, it features a 6.77-inch 120Hz AMOLED display that gets plenty bright for outdoor use. Inside, it runs on the MediaTek Dimensity 7300 Pro, which handles daily tasks smoothly and includes an NPU for basic AI functions.

The camera setup is also quite capable for the price, featuring a 50MP main sensor and a 50MP 2x telephoto lens. It runs Nothing OS 3.2, which remains one of the cleaner Android interfaces available, and the company is promising three years of OS updates.

Realme P4x 5G

If you spend a lot of time playing mobile games like BGMI or Free Fire, the Realme P4x 5G is built specifically with that use case in mind. Priced around ₹20,999 (often lower with standard discounts), it uses a 6.72-inch 144Hz LCD and is powered by the Dimensity 7400 Ultra processor.

What makes it interesting for gaming is its thermal management. It includes a large vapor chamber cooling system and a very practical feature called Bypass Charging.

When you are playing a game while plugged in, the phone routes power directly to the motherboard rather than the battery. This prevents the phone from overheating during long sessions and helps preserve the health of the 7000mAh battery over time.

Realme P4R 5G

For those who just want a phone that rarely needs to be plugged in, the Realme P4R 5G starts at ₹18,999 and includes a massive 8000mAh battery. Realme says it can last up to three days on a single charge, which aligns with what you’d expect from a capacity this large.

Despite the battery size, the phone is relatively standard in its dimensions at 8.8mm thick. It runs on the Dimensity 6300 and has a 6.8-inch 144Hz LCD. It also features an IP65 rating and MIL-STD-810H certification, meaning it can handle minor drops and splashes.

You can even use it to reverse-charge other devices via a cable, making it a useful tool if you carry around wireless earbuds or a smartwatch.

Moto G37 Power

Motorola continues to offer reliable phones with minimal fuss, and the Moto G37 Power is a great example. Starting at ₹15,999, it provides a clean software experience with Android 16 and very little bloatware.

It features a 6.7-inch HD+ 120Hz LCD, the Dimensity 6400 processor, and a 7000mAh battery with 30W charging. It also has IP64 water and dust resistance, Gorilla Glass 7i for screen protection, and stereo speakers with Dolby Atmos support.

If your budget is strictly under 16k-17k, this phone is a very safe bet. It offers a stylish look with its textured Pantone color options and delivers smooth, reliable performance for all your daily essentials like web browsing, texting, and media consumption.

iQOO Z11 Lite

Priced at ₹19,499, the iQOO Z11 Lite focuses on physical durability and software additions. It shares the MIL-STD-810H military-grade rating and IP65 resistance seen on some of the other phones on this list, making it a sturdy option.

The display is a 6.74-inch HD+ 120Hz LCD that reaches up to 1200 nits of brightness, making it easy to read outdoors. It runs on the Dimensity 6300 and includes a 6500mAh battery with 44W fast charging.

The device comes with OriginOS, which includes built-in AI tools for generating text and summarizing audio or video recordings. If you find those kinds of productivity features useful, it’s worth considering.

In other news, we’ve rounded up the 7 best camera smartphones available in July 2026. Check it out as well.

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The post The Best Budget Smartphones You Can Buy in Mid-2026 appeared first on Gizmochina.

If you’re serious about mobile gaming, the right pair of earbuds can make all the difference. From hearing enemy footsteps in BGMI to reacting quicker in Call of Duty: Mobile, good gaming earbuds give you more than just loud sound. Low latency, clear audio, and accurate directional cues can often be the difference between winning and losing a match.

But not every pair of earbuds is built with gaming in mind. Some prioritise music, while others focus on features like ANC or battery life. That’s why we’ve rounded up some of the best gaming earbuds you can buy in India, whether you prefer the reliability of wired earphones or the convenience of true wireless earbuds.

How to choose the right gaming earbuds

Buying gaming earbuds isn’t just about picking the pair with the biggest drivers or loudest bass. The first thing to look for is latency. If you’re into competitive titles like BGMI or Call of Duty: Mobile, low-latency audio or a wired connection will ensure what you hear matches what’s happening on screen.

You should also consider where you’ll use them the most. Wired earphones are generally the best choice for competitive gaming, thanks to their zero-latency performance, while wireless earbuds offer greater convenience for casual gaming and everyday use.

Features like ANC, a long battery life, and a good microphone are also worth considering if you plan to use the earbuds beyond gaming.

6 best gaming earbuds

OnePlus Buds 4

The OnePlus Buds 4 offers a balanced experience for gamers looking for an all-rounder. Its low-latency mode keeps gameplay responsive, while the dual-driver setup delivers detailed audio that helps distinguish subtle in-game sounds from louder effects.

Adaptive ANC is another useful feature, especially if you game while travelling or in busy surroundings. It also supports dual-device connectivity, letting you seamlessly switch between your gaming phone and laptop without manually reconnecting the earbuds every time.

Realme Buds Air 7 Pro

The realme Buds Air 7 Pro is easily one of the strongest gaming earbuds in its segment. It comes with a dedicated Game Mode that significantly reduces latency, helping audio keep pace with fast-paced shooters. Combined with its dual-driver setup, the earbuds produce impactful bass while maintaining clear positional cues.

There’s also ANC support that helps you stay immersed during matches played in noisy environments, while the IP55 rating means you can comfortably carry them on your daily commute. It’s a versatile option for users who game as much as they listen to music.

Logitech G333

The Logitech G333 is one of the few wired earphones made specifically for gaming, and it will immediately feel different from regular earphones. It uses dual dynamic drivers to separate bass from mids and highs, which helps make footsteps, reloads, and approaching vehicles easier to identify during intense matches.

Since it uses a wired connection, you also get virtually zero latency, so the audio stays perfectly in sync with your gameplay. The G333 features both a 3.5mm connector and a USB-C adapter, making it easy to use with most smartphones, and even PCs and gaming consoles.

TRUTHEAR x Crinacle Zero

If you’re a competitive player, the TRUTHEAR x Crinacle Zero is one of the best options you can buy. Being a wired IEM, it completely eliminates latency, which ensures that every footstep, reload, and gunfire reaches your ears instantly. Its dual dynamic driver setup also offers excellent imaging, making it easier to identify the direction of enemy movement.

Unlike gaming-focused earbuds that rely on software enhancements, the Zero delivers natural and detailed audio. The detachable cable is another advantage, allowing you to replace it easily if it gets damaged. So, if your priority is competitive gaming rather than convenience, this is the pair to get.

Sony WF-C710N

The Sony WF-C710N isn’t marketed as a gaming earbud, but it does a great job at gaming as well. It features a low-latency mode that helps keep audio closely synced with on-screen action, making it suitable for casual gaming sessions without noticeable delays.

Where Sony really shines is comfort and noise cancellation. The Active Noise Cancellation (ANC) helps block out background distractions, letting you stay focused during intense matches, while the balanced sound signature ensures explosions, footsteps, and voice chat remain clear without sounding overly bass-heavy.

Sony INZONE WF-G700N

If budget isn’t a concern and you enjoy getting lost in story-driven games, the Sony INZONE WF-G700N are among the best premium gaming earbuds you can buy. Their 360 Spatial Sound creates a more immersive soundstage, making everything from cinematic cutscenes to ambient environmental effects feel richer and more lifelike. 

They’re equally capable in competitive games, thanks to the ultra-low latency 2.4GHz USB-C dongle connection that’s meant to keep the audio perfectly in sync with gameplay. Other features include a long battery life, a comfortable fit, and a clear AI-powered microphone for giving calls throughout your game.

What are the best budget gaming earbuds?

The Logitech G333 are one of the best budget gaming earbuds, as they come with dual dynamic drivers and a wired zero-latency connection.

What are the best wireless gaming earbuds?

The realme Buds Air 7 Pro are the best wireless gaming earbuds on this list, as they feature a dedicated Game Mode, dual drivers, ANC, and solid battery life.

What are the best wired gaming earbuds?

For competitive gamers, the TRUTHEAR x Crinacle Zero is the best wired earbuds on this list for gaming and for everyday listening, as it supports zero latency.

What are the best premium gaming earbuds?

The Sony INZONE WF-G700N is the best premium gaming earbuds, as it supports 360 Spatial Sound for Gaming, an ultra-low latency 2.4GHz connection, and an exceptional battery life.

Which earbuds are best for BGMI?

The TRUTHEAR x Crinacle Zero is the best choice for competitive BGMI players, while the realme Buds Air 7 Pro is an excellent wireless alternative.

Are wired earbuds better for gaming?

Yes. Wired earbuds offer virtually zero latency, making them the preferred choice for competitive gaming where every millisecond matters.

What is low-latency mode in gaming earbuds?

Low-latency mode reduces the delay between your device and the earbuds, ensuring audio stays closely synced with gameplay.

The post Best gaming earbuds (July 2026)  appeared first on Gizmochina.

Chargers have come a long way, and if you’re buying one today, chances are you’ll come across plenty of GaN chargers. But what exactly does GaN mean, how is it different from a regular charger, and which ones are worth buying? Read on to find out.

What is Gallium Nitride (GaN) technology?

Gallium Nitride, or GaN, is a semiconductor material that replaces traditional silicon inside modern chargers. And unlike conventional silicon chargers, GaN components produce less heat despite their size. This allows manufacturers to build chargers that are significantly smaller without compromising on charging speed.

Having said that, GaN chargers can fast charge smartphones, tablets, handheld consoles, and even laptops, simultaneously. So, you don’t need to carry a separate charger for each gadget you own.

How to choose a GaN charger

The first thing to check is the charger’s power output. A 30W or 40W charger is enough for most iPhones, while a 45W or 65W is enough for most Android phones, unless you own a Chinese flagship, which supports over 100W fast charging.

For tablets and ultrabooks, a 65W GaN charger is a better choice if you also want to charge a tablet or an ultrabook. If you own a power-hungry laptop like a MacBook Pro or a gaming laptop, look for a 100W or higher GaN charger to ensure it can deliver enough power.

Apart from the speed, the next thing to consider is the number of ports and charging standards. If you charge multiple devices at once, choose a charger with two or more USB-C ports, or a mix of USB-C and USB-A ports.

It’s also worth checking for support for USB Power Delivery (PD) and PPS, as these standards help compatible phones and tablets charge at their fastest supported speeds.

7 best GaN chargers to buy in July 2026

Samsung 25W Type-C GaN Charger

If you’ve just bought a new phone that doesn’t include a charger in the box, the Samsung 25W Type-C GaN Charger is a safe budget pick. It’s designed for smartphones, including iPhones and Android devices, and supports USB Power Delivery (PD) for fast charging. Despite its compact size, it remains cool during everyday use, which makes it a reliable GaN charger on a budget.

Spigen ArcStation Pro 70W

If you want one charger for almost everything, the Spigen ArcStation Pro is one of the safest picks. It delivers up to 70W of power and includes two USB-C ports, making it suitable for charging a MacBook Air alongside a smartphone. Despite its output, it’s compact enough to slip into a backpack without adding much bulk.

Belkin BoostCharge Pro 65W

Belkin is a reliable brand for accessories, and its BoostCharge Pro GaN charger is currently the best seller on Amazon. The sole reason for this is its super compact size. It’s one of the most compact GaN chargers with 65W output. It supports USB Power Delivery and works well with MacBooks, Windows laptops, iPhones, Samsung Galaxy phones, and tablets.

Ambrane 65W GaN Charger

If you’re looking for a fast charger that won’t burn a hole in your pocket, the AeroSync GaN charger is worth considering. Priced under Rs 2,000, it delivers up to 65W fast charging and comes with two USB-C ports and one USB-A port.

That makes it a handy option for charging multiple devices, including your smartphone, smartwatch, tablet, or even a compatible laptop. The only downside here is the six-month warranty, unlike some other chargers that come with a one year warranty.

Ambrane 100W GaNMAX Charger

If you own power-hungry devices, like a gaming laptop, tablet, and a flagship-grade phone, the 100W Ambrane charger is a great pick for the price. It comes with four ports, including three USB-C ports and a USB-A port, offering more headroom for times when you want to charge all your devices at once. It also supports universal charging.

UGREEN Nexode 100W 4-Port GaN Charger

The UGREEN Nexode is one of the most reliable and versatile chargers on this list. With four output ports, it can charge a laptop, smartphone, smartwatch, and earbuds simultaneously. It also supports intelligent power distribution, which automatically allocates power depending on the connected devices. For added peace of mind, UGREEN’s Thermal Guard technology helps monitor temperature and protects the charger from overheating.

Stuffcool Nomad Pro

The Nomad Pro from Stuffcool is a great pick for frequent travellers. It comes with interchangeable plugs for over 150+ countries and delivers up to 140W of power, making it suitable for laptops, tablets, and even smartphones.

It also includes multiple USB-C ports and a USB-A port for charging several devices at once. There’s also a built-in digital display that shows the real-time charging output, so you can easily check if your devices are actually fast charging.

It’s worth noting that none of these GaN chargers ship with a USB-C or USB-A cable. You’ll have to a buy compatible cable to enable fast charging.

Here are some of our recommendations.

– GM G+ PD 100W Type-C to C cable with digital display

– UGREEN 100W Type-C to C cable

– Stuffcool Primus 240W Type-C to C cable

– UGREEN 240W Type-C to C cable with digital display

Are GaN chargers safe?

Yes. GaN chargers are safe to use as long as you buy one from a reputable brand. Most include protections against overheating, overcharging, overcurrent and short circuits.

Does Vivo support GaN chargers?

Yes. Vivo smartphones can be charged with GaN chargers, but they’ll only charge at the maximum speed supported by the phone and charger.

GaN charger vs PD charger: What’s the difference?

GaN and USB Power Delivery (PD) aren’t the same thing. GaN is the technology used to make chargers smaller and more efficient, while PD is the fast-charging standard that determines how power is delivered to compatible devices.

Which is the best budget GaN charger?

The Ambrane AeroSync 65W GaN Charger is one of the best budget options, offering just the right fast charging speeds, multiple ports, and excellent value for money.

Which is the best 25W GaN charger?

The Samsung 25W charger is the best GaN charger for smartphones, including Android and iPhones, as it offers a compact design with reliable USB PD fast charging. And it’s usually available at massive discount on Amazon.

Which is the best premium GaN charger?

The UGREEN Nexode 100W is the best premium GaN charger, thanks to its high power output, four charging ports, and ability to charge multiple devices simultaneously.

Best overall GaN charger for travelling?

The Stuffcool Nomad Pro 140W is the best GaN charger for travelling, thanks to its interchangeable international plugs, compact design, and built-in power display.

So, which of these GaN chargers is your pick? Let us know in the comments below.

The post Best GaN Chargers in India (July 2026) appeared first on Gizmochina.

Google is getting ready to announce its next generation of smartphones. The company has scheduled its Made by Google hardware event for August 12 in New York City, with an Indian launch following on August 13.

While the official reveal is still a few weeks away, a steady stream of leaks has already provided a clear picture of what to expect from the Pixel 11, Pixel 11 Pro, Pixel 11 Pro XL, and the Pixel 11 Pro Fold.

Here is a roundup of everything we know so far about Google’s upcoming phone lineup.

Pricing and Colors

The Pixel 11 series is getting more expensive. According to a report by Droid Life, which cited prematurely published Amazon listings, the base price for the Pixel 11 series is increasing by about $100 across the board. However, this price bump comes with a storage upgrade. Google is reportedly dropping the 128GB tier entirely, making 256GB the new standard starting point.

Based on the leaked listings, the standard Pixel 11 will start at $899. The Pixel 11 Pro is expected to cost $1,099, while the larger Pixel 11 Pro XL will start at $1,299. For the foldable model, the Pixel 11 Pro Fold is listed with a starting price of $1,899.

We also have a good idea of the color options. As first spotted by 9to5Google, the standard Pixel 11 will be available in Midnight, Fuchsia (referred to as Hibiscus in some listings), Moss (Pistachio), and Frost. The Pro models will feature slightly different tones, including Dune, Light Fog, Midnight, and Pine.

Internal Hardware

On the inside, the Pixel 11 series will be powered by Google’s new Tensor G6 processor. While a new chip is standard for a yearly upgrade, the more significant internal change is the modem. Leaks indicate that Google is moving away from Samsung’s Exynos modems and switching to the MediaTek M90. Pixel phones have occasionally struggled with cellular connectivity and standby battery drain in the past, so a more efficient modem could be a very practical improvement for daily use.

Battery capacities are also seeing some adjustments. The leaked Amazon listings point to a 4,985 mAh battery for the base Pixel 11 and a 5,115 mAh battery for the Pixel 11 Pro XL. Interestingly, the Pixel 11 Pro Fold is listed with a 4,750 mAh battery, which is slightly smaller than the battery found in the previous generation.

Design Upgrades

The overall design language of the Pixel 11 remains similar to the Pixel 10, featuring flat displays and the familiar horizontal camera bar. However, Google is removing the infrared temperature sensor that was present on previous Pro models.

In its place, the company is introducing a feature called Pixel Glow. Confirmed by Google’s own teaser materials, Pixel Glow is a circular, color-shifting LED light integrated into the camera bar. It is designed to serve as a visual indicator for notifications and alerts when the phone is placed face down.

Looking Ahead to the Pixel 11a

For those who prefer Google’s mid-range offerings, details about the Pixel 11a are already surfacing. According to the tipster Mystery Leaks on Telegram (via 91mobiles), the Pixel 11a (codenamed Formosan) will feature a 6.3-inch 120Hz display and will also utilize the new Tensor G6 chip and MediaTek M90 modem.

It is expected to include a 4,870 mAh battery and a new front-facing camera sensor for better video calls. While the flagship Pixel 11 series launches in August, the Pixel 11a is expected to arrive a few months later.

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If you look at the back of a modern flagship smartphone, you’ll notice that camera modules have grown significantly. We have moved past the simple megapixel race; today, manufacturers are focusing on larger sensors, better glass, and practical software that actually helps you take better photos.

The line between a dedicated point-and-shoot camera and a smartphone is thinner than ever, making it an excellent time to upgrade if photography is your priority.

Whether you prefer the tactile feel of physical lenses, the reliability of a simple point-and-shoot, or the flexibility of advanced editing software, the current market has something tailored to your workflow. Here is a look at the seven best camera phones available in July 2026.

Vivo X300 Ultra

Vivo has positioned the X300 Ultra as a pocket camera, and the hardware reflects that approach. The phone features three Zeiss-branded cameras on the back, built around a 200MP 35mm main camera using a Sony LYTIA 901 sensor. It also includes a 200MP 85mm gimbal-stabilized periscope telephoto lens for long-range shots and a 50MP 14mm ultra-wide camera.

What makes the X300 Ultra unique is its modular ecosystem. Vivo offers a Professional Imaging Kit that includes a camera grip and two physical Zeiss teleconverter modules: a 200mm lens that provides 8.7x optical zoom at a 200mm equivalent focal length, and a 400mm lens.

It also features Vivo’s Blueprint Original Color Camera technology and a dedicated 5MP spectral sensor for more accurate color reproduction, helping deliver a tactile, traditional photography experience.

Oppo Find X9 Ultra

The Oppo Find X9 Ultra leans heavily into its partnership with Hasselblad. The device features an eco-leather back and a comprehensive six-lens array. The primary setup includes a 200MP main sensor, a 200MP telephoto, and a dedicated 10x optical zoom Hasselblad lens that maintains optical quality up to 20x.

Oppo is using its new LUMO internal optical zoom technology, which helps retain detail by quadrupling the pixel count at the 2x and 6x zoom ranges. The software includes Hasselblad Master Mode, which allows for 8K photo output and includes Original Film profiles designed to replicate classic analog film stocks.

For those who want more physical control, Oppo’s Hasselblad Earth Explorer Kit adds a professional teleconverter, a camera grip, and a 67mm filter adapter ring.

Apple iPhone 17 Pro

Apple updated its camera hardware last year, giving the iPhone 17 Pro a triple 48MP rear array. This includes a 48MP Fusion camera, a 48MP ultra-wide, and a redesigned 48MP Telephoto lens with a significantly larger sensor. The optical zoom reaches 4x at 100mm and 8x at 200mm, offering more versatility for framing subjects.

The A19 Pro chip handles the image processing, bringing updates to Apple’s Photonic Engine. The physical Camera Controls on the device make it easy to adjust exposure, depth, and photographic styles on the fly.

Apple also updated the front-facing camera with an 18MP square sensor for a wider field of view, while maintaining its strong video capabilities with 4K Dolby Vision at 120fps and spatial audio capture.

Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra

The Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra earns its spot by focusing heavily on low-light performance and practical video upgrades. Samsung has widened the apertures across its camera array, giving the 200MP main sensor an f/1.4 lens and the upgraded 50MP ultrawide an f/1.9 lens.

In practical terms, this allows the hardware to capture much more light naturally, resulting in cleaner photos and improved Nightography video in dim environments without over-relying on software processing. The zoom setup remains highly versatile, featuring a 10MP 3x telephoto and a 50MP 5x periscope lens.

For video shooters, the S26 Ultra is the first Galaxy device to support the Advanced Professional Video (APV) standard, which efficiently compresses high-quality video files so they don’t eat up your storage as quickly.

Combined with upgraded Super Steady stabilization, updated native AI editing tools, and a front-facing camera equipped with a new AI Image Signal Processor for more accurate skin tones in mixed lighting, it is a thoroughly well-rounded tool for mobile photography and filmmaking.

Xiaomi 17 Ultra

Xiaomi’s ongoing collaboration with Leica continues with the 17 Ultra. The phone retains its distinct circular camera module, housing a quad-camera array. The main camera uses a 1-inch type sensor with a variable aperture, supported by three 50MP lenses for ultra-wide, 3x telephoto, and 5x periscope duties.

The image processing is handled by Xiaomi’s custom Surge chip, which is tuned to deliver Leica’s signature color science and contrast-heavy look with minimal shutter lag. Xiaomi also offers a Photography Kit for this model, which adds a case with a two-stage shutter button, a zoom lever, and a 67mm filter thread, making it feel much more like a traditional point-and-shoot.

Google Pixel 10 Pro XL

While other brands focus heavily on physical attachments, the Pixel 10 Pro XL remains a showcase for Google‘s computational photography. The hardware is solid, featuring a 50MP main sensor, a 48MP ultra-wide, and a 48MP 5x telephoto lens.

The real differentiator is the Tensor G5 chip and its custom Imaging Signal Processor. This enables new software tools like Camera Coach, which uses on-device AI to suggest framing and lighting adjustments in real-time. Features like Auto Best Take and Magic Cue help refine group shots and action photos. It also supports 100x Pro Res Zoom and 8K video recording through Google’s Video Boost processing.

Vivo X300 Pro

The Vivo X300 Pro is a strong alternative if you don’t want to step all the way up to the Ultra model. It is the first phone to use the 50MP Sony LYT828 main sensor, and it pairs that with a 50MP ultra-wide and the same 200MP periscope telephoto lens found on the X300 Ultra.

It relies on Vivo’s custom V3+ and VS1 dual imaging chips, which are particularly effective for shooting 4K HDR cinematic portrait videos. The X300 Pro is also compatible with the Zeiss 2.35x telephoto extender kit, allowing users to experiment with physical lens attachments on a slightly more accessible device.

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E-ink phones are one of those categories that shouldn’t really work, and yet here we are, several years in, with more options than ever. E-ink phones are built around a display technology that powers your Kindle, shrink it down, wire it up to Android, and let people carry a phone that reads like paper, survives days without a charger, and doesn’t nuke your eyes at 11 PM. The screens are slow. They ghost. They can’t do video without looking like a fax machine having a bad day. And yet a small, stubborn, growing group of people keeps buying them anyway, because the tradeoffs are the point.

2026 has been a genuinely busy year for the category. Hisense just put out the A10, its first new e-ink phone in three years, and it does something clever with a magnetic detachable screen that we haven’t really seen anywhere else. Bigme also iterated with a newer model that’s a full dual-screen phone. Boox is still quietly making the best pocket e-reader money can buy, even if it insists on not calling it a “phone.” And if you just want to disappear from your group chats for a while, there’s a whole lineup of minimalist devices happy to help with that too.

Here’s where things stand right now, and which one to buy depending on what you actually want out of an e-ink screen.

Why anyone would want this in the first place

Let’s get the obvious question out of the way: why would you choose a screen that refreshes like it’s thinking really hard about it, over the OLED panel sitting in your pocket right now?

Three reasons, mostly. E-ink panels reflect ambient light instead of firing it directly into your eyes, so long reading sessions feel noticeably less tiring, especially at night. They only draw power when the image actually changes, which is why these phones can coast for days, sometimes weeks, on a single charge instead of dying by dinner. And they’re genuinely great outdoors. Direct sunlight, which washes out a normal phone screen into a useless mirror, is where e-ink looks its best.

The tradeoff is speed. Scrolling looks choppy. Video is mostly unwatchable. Games are a non-starter unless they’re turn-based. Almost nobody uses one of these as their only phone. 

Bigme HiBreak Pro Color

If you want something that functions like a real smartphone first and an e-reader second, this is still the pick. The HiBreak Pro Color runs Android 14 with the full Google Play Store, so nothing about your app situation changes — banking apps, Spotify, Google Maps, all of it works. 

It supports 5G across dual SIMs, and under the hood it’s running a MediaTek Dimensity 1080 with 8GB of RAM and 256GB of storage.

The 6.13-inch Kaleido 3 display hits a crisp 300 PPI in black and white, and drops to around 150 PPI when it’s showing color. Bigme’s “SSS” fast-refresh mode also pushes the color panel to a smoother 30 FPS for regular navigation. It has a 4,500mAh battery, a 20MP camera with built-in OCR for scanning documents, NFC, and a fingerprint sensor to round it out.

It’s a long way from the original color HiBreak Bigme unveiled running Android 14, which felt more like a proof of concept than a daily driver. This one doesn’t feel like that anymore.

Hisense A10 

Hisense went quiet on e-ink phones for three years after the A9, and it came back with something genuinely different: a 6.13-inch monochrome e-ink display on the front, and a color LCD panel on the back that snaps on and off magnetically. Want the paper-like screen for reading, note-taking, or studying? Leave the back panel off. Want to watch something or scroll Instagram without the e-ink lag? Snap the color screen on and use that side instead.

It’s a smarter solution than the fixed dual-screen approach Bigme takes with the HiBreak Dual, because you’re not carrying the weight and thickness of two permanently bonded displays — you just bring the color panel when you actually need it. 

Under the hood, the A10 runs a 4nm octa-core Qualcomm chip, ships with Android 16 out of the box, and supports both 5G and Wi-Fi 6. Pricing isn’t official as we write this, but Hisense is expected to launch it around CNY 3,999, or roughly $590.

Boox Palma 2 and Palma 2 Pro

Boox will tell you the Palma 2 isn’t a phone, and technically that’s true — there’s no built-in cellular calling here. But it’s shaped like one, it runs full Android, and enough people use it as a phone-adjacent device that it belongs on this list anyway. The base Palma 2 has a 6.13-inch Carta 1200 display at 300 PPI, 6GB of RAM, 128GB of expandable storage, and a 3,950mAh battery that can genuinely last weeks if you’re just doing light reading.

The Palma 2 Pro steps things up with a color Kaleido 3 screen, Android 15, 8GB of RAM, stylus support, and — for the first time — mobile data. It’s still not making phone calls, but it’s inching closer to being a real standalone device rather than a companion gadget.

Minimal Phone

Not everyone wants a full Android experience with a paper-like screen bolted on. Some people want the opposite — as little phone as possible. The Minimal Phone leans hard into that idea with a 4.3-inch black-and-white E-Ink touchscreen and a physical QWERTY keyboard that makes the whole thing feel more like a 2009 messaging phone than anything modern. 

It still runs a trimmed-down Android 14 with Play Store access, so it’s not completely locked down, but the small screen and clicky keys create just enough friction to make doomscrolling genuinely annoying. 

It runs on a MediaTek G99 chip, 6GB of RAM, and 128GB of expandable storage handle the basics, and the 3,000mAh battery lasts for days thanks to how little power the display needs. 

Bigme HiBreak Dual 2 

And then there’s the HiBreak Dual 2, which basically says: why choose? It puts a 6.13-inch color e-ink screen on the front for reading and note-taking, complete with stylus support carried over from the original HiBreak Dual, and a full 5-inch LCD on the back for video, photos, and anything else that actually needs motion and full color. It runs on a Dimensity 8300 with 5G and Android 16.

So which one should you actually buy?

It comes down to what you’re trying to get away from. If you want a real phone that happens to have an e-ink screen, get the Bigme HiBreak Pro Color. If you’re curious about the newest idea in the category and don’t mind an unofficial price tag for now, the Hisense A10’s detachable color panel is the most interesting hardware move anyone’s made this year. 

If you want a pocket reader more than a phone, the Boox Palma 2 or Palma 2 Pro is still the class leader. If your actual goal is using your phone less, the Minimal Phone is built for exactly that. And if you can’t stand the idea of giving up color entirely, the HiBreak Dual 2 lets you have both, at a price.

None of these phones are trying to replace your iPhone or your Galaxy, and that’s sort of the point.

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The line between dedicated gaming phones and standard flagship phones is blurring. As we move into the second half of 2026, mobile gaming hardware is focusing more on sustained performance, larger battery capacities, and better heat management rather than just flashy designs.

If you play demanding games like Call of Duty: Mobile or Genshin Impact, you’ll want a device that can handle extended sessions without overheating. Here is a look at some of the best phones for gaming in July 2026.

Red Magic 11S Pro

If you are looking for a device built specifically around gaming, the Red Magic 11S Pro is the most direct approach. It prioritizes sustained performance over a conventional smartphone design.

The phone runs on the Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 Leading Version, which offers a slight clock speed bump up to 4.74GHz. But the processor isn’t the main draw here; the cooling system is. Red Magic has included its AquaCore Cooling System, which pairs a large 13,116mm² vapor chamber with an active 24,000 RPM cooling fan. You can hear the fan when it runs, but it effectively prevents the phone from throttling during extended gaming sessions. The transparent back panel also shows off a fluorinated liquid cooling loop, which is a neat, albeit very gamer-centric, design choice.

For controls and display, it features a 6.85-inch 144Hz OLED screen that remains uninterrupted by a camera cutout, thanks to an under-display front camera. It also includes 520Hz capacitive shoulder triggers, which are genuinely useful for first-person shooters. For power, it packs a large 7,500mAh battery and supports dual reverse charging, allowing it to charge compatible accessories when needed. It is a bulky device, but it does exactly what it sets out to do.

Apple iPhone 17 Pro

Apple doesn’t market the iPhone as a dedicated gaming phone. You won’t find RGB lighting or built-in shoulder buttons here. However, the iPhone 17 Pro remains one of the most capable devices for playing games, largely due to its internal hardware and the App Store’s library.

The 3nm A19 Pro chip includes hardware-accelerated ray tracing and neural accelerators in its 6-core GPU. More importantly for gamers, Apple has finally addressed thermal management in a meaningful way. The iPhone 17 Pro introduces a laser-welded vapor chamber filled with deionized water, integrated directly into the aluminum chassis. This allows the phone to sustain its performance for much longer than previous models before it needs to dim the screen or reduce frame rates to manage heat.

The 6.3-inch Super Retina XDR display is super bright, peaking at 3,000 nits, which makes it easier to play games outdoors. With iOS 26 and a growing number of console-quality ports available, the iPhone 17 Pro is a practical choice if you want a reliable everyday phone that also handles high-end gaming without looking like a piece of specialized equipment.

OnePlus 15

The OnePlus 15 strikes a good balance between a standard flagship and a gaming device. It doesn’t have the overt gaming aesthetic of the Red Magic, but it includes several features that gamers will appreciate.

Powered by the standard Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5, the OnePlus 15 stands out with its display. The 6.78-inch AMOLED panel operates at 120Hz for daily tasks but can push up to 165Hz for supported games like Call of Duty: Mobile. It also features a dedicated touch response chip with a 3200Hz sampling rate, which makes inputs feel immediate and precise.

OnePlus has also equipped the device with a 7,300mAh Silicon NanoStack battery and 120W charging with Bypass Charging support, helping reduce heat during gaming while also improving long-term battery health.

iQOO 15

If visual quality is your main priority, the iQOO 15 is worth considering. iQOO partnered with Samsung to use the 6.85-inch 2K M14 LEAD OLED display, and the results are impressive. It features a 144Hz variable refresh rate and can reach a localized peak brightness of 6,000 nits.

To manage the high-resolution display, iQOO paired the Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 with a proprietary Supercomputing Chip Q3. This secondary chip handles frame interpolation, which can artificially boost frame rates up to 144 FPS in certain games while keeping latency manageable.

The phone also includes a large vapor chamber cooling system and a 7,000mAh battery that supports 100W wired and 40W wireless charging. It is a solid option for players who want top-tier screen technology and fast charging in a more traditional smartphone form factor.

Red Magic 11 Pro

As the direct predecessor to the 11S Pro, the Red Magic 11 Pro remains a very logical alternative if you want a capable gaming device without needing the absolute newest iteration. It provides a nearly identical experience to its successor.

You get the standard Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 instead of the slightly overclocked version, but in real-world gaming, the difference is negligible. It retains the same 6.85-inch 144Hz notchless OLED display, the active cooling fan, and the 520Hz shoulder triggers.

In terms of design, it keeps the flat-edge look without a protruding camera bump on the back. It also features a visible liquid-cooling mechanism with a translucent blue ring that rotates when active. Additionally, the device includes an IPX8 waterproof rating, which is a practical addition for daily use.

For battery life, the 11 Pro actually steps up to a larger 8,000mAh battery. The wired charging is slightly slower at 80W, but it still tops up quickly. For most people who want a dedicated gaming phone, the 11 Pro offers all the necessary hardware without needing to upgrade to the newer S model.

Red Magic 11 Air

Historically, buying a lite version of a gaming phone meant giving up the best features. The Red Magic 11 Air, however, manages to keep the essentials intact while remaining a more accessible option.

Despite being 12% thinner and 10% lighter than the 11 Pro, Red Magic managed to fit an active 24,000 RPM cooling fan inside, a first for their Air series. It uses the standard Snapdragon 8 Elite processor and features a 7,000mAh battery with 80W charging. You still get a 144Hz OLED display and the 520Hz shoulder triggers.

The Red Magic 11 Air is a highly competitive option. It offers the core benefits of a dedicated gaming phone, active cooling and physical triggers, in a much more streamlined package.

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The dumbphone market has exploded in recent years, and there are a few strong reasons for it. More people are switching to a minimalist lifestyle, moving away from the algorithmically-controlled social media apps that end up consuming a few hours every single day.

Whether it’s about your mental peace, reducing your screen time, or giving your child a device with only a basic feature set, dumbphones are the perfect solution. Take a look at some of the best dumbphones out there to find one that suits your needs.

Best dumbphones to buy in July 2026

1. Light Phone III — Best premium minimalist
2. Nokia 2660 Flip — Best flip-style dumbphone
3. Nokia 110 4G (2024) — Best value
4. Mudita Compakt — Best E-ink dumbphone
5. Cat S22 Flip — Best rugged dumbphone with Android OS
6. Punkt MP02 — Best for button lovers
7. Dumber Mini — Best dumbphone with essential apps
8. HMD Barbie Phone — Best for kids
9. Easyfone Prime A6 — Best for seniors

Let’s look at them one by one in detail.

1. Light Phone III

Brooklyn-based startup Light focuses on premium, distraction-free minimalist phones, designed to be used as little as possible. Their latest release, Light Phone III, adds a 50MP rear camera and an 8MP front camera.

The Light Phone III has no web browser, no social media apps, no email, and no news feeds, so you can focus on other work. The phone comes with a highly customized LightOS, which only supports basic stuff like voice calls, SMS texting, GPS navigation, an alarm clock, notes, a calendar, a calculator, and a basic music player.

For the most part, the phone only displays black-and-white text and shapes except when capturing or viewing a photo. It has a scrollable wheel on the left side for instantly toggling the flashlight or adjusting the screen brightness.

Light Phone III specs:

• Display: 3.92-inch Monochrome AMOLED
• Camera: 50MP (rear), 8MP (front)
• Processor: Qualcomm Snapdragon 4 Gen 2
• OS: LightOS (De-Googled)
• RAM: 6GB
• Storage: 128GB
• Battery: 1800mAh (removable)
• Connectivity: 5G, Bluetooth 5.3, Wi-Fi 5, USB-C 2.0, GPS, NFC
• SIM: nano-SIM + e-SIM

2. Nokia 2660 Flip

While Nokia doesn’t have a strong hold in the smartphone market, the brand remains a strong choice among people looking to reduce screen time and ditch social media. The Nokia 2660 Flip, released in 2022, is still a popular choice among these buyers as it perfectly serves the purpose.

The Nokia 2660 Flip is a 4G feature phone with no internet connectivity at all. That means no doomscrolling, no YouTube, and no WhatsApp. It focuses on offering basic features such as calls and texts. The small outer screen quickly shows the caller ID, time, battery status, and unread texts and missed calls.

These dumbphones do not require a large battery, and that’s why the 1450mAh battery on the Nokia 2660 Flip is enough to last for several days. The phone has a side emergency button that allows users to instantly call or text up to 5 pre-saved emergency contacts. It also has a built-in FM radio that works without needing a headset wire as an antenna.

Nokia 2660 Flip specs:

• Display: 2.8-inch (main), 1.77-inch (external)
• Camera: 0.3MP (rear) with flash
• Processor: Unisoc T107
• OS: Series 30+
• RAM: 48MB
• Storage: 128MB, expandable up to 32GB via microSD
• Battery: 1450mAh (removable)
• Connectivity: 4G, Bluetooth 4.2, USB 2.0
• SIM: nano-SIM + nano-SIM

3. Nokia 110 4G (2024)

If you’re not in for a flip phone, the Nokia 110 4G (2024) might be a suitable choice. It has no Wi-Fi, no app store, and no social media apps. It’s purely for communication and offline utilities (MP3, basic games, calculator, and torch).

The phone supports 4G, ensuring it will remain functional for calls in the long term, as 2G and 3G networks are shutting down globally. Unlike older dumbphones, the Nokia 110 4G (2024) uses the same USB-C port and supports HD Voice for improved call quality.

Nokia 110 4G (2024) specs:

• Display: 2.0-inch TFT LCD
• Camera: QVGA (rear) with flash
• RAM: 64MB
• Storage: 128MB, expandable up to 32GB via microSD
• Battery: 1000mAh (removable)
• Connectivity: 4G, Bluetooth, USB Type-C
• SIM: nano-SIM + nano-SIM

4. Mudita Compakt

Mudita Kompakt is a premium minimalist phone, featuring an E Ink display, a low-power paper-like screen technology that mimics the appearance of an ordinary ink on paper and is far gentler on the eyes. It runs on a custom, privacy-focused operating system that only keeps essential modern utilities.

Besides calls and texts, Mudia Compakt retains essential features that many dumbphones lack, including Maps, a high-quality voice recorder, Notes, and Calendar. It also has a fingerprint scanner and supports standard Qi wireless charging, two rare features in this category of phones.

The phone packs a 3300mAh battery, enough to keep the device running for days on a single charge. You may also praise the company for adding a physical hardware switch that instantly cuts the power to the microphones, cameras, and all cellular/Wi-Fi antennas, when you want to go off the grid.

Mudita Kompakt specs:

• Display: 4.3-inch E Ink
• Camera: 8MP (rear) with dual LED flash
• Processor: MediaTek MT6761V
• OS: MuditaOS K (custom stripped-down Android 12/AOSP)
• RAM: 3GB
• Storage: 32GB, expandable via microSD
• Battery: 3300mAh (removable) with wireless charging support
• Connectivity: 4G, Bluetooth, USB Type-C, NFC
• SIM: nano-SIM + e-SIM/microSD

5. Cat S22 Flip

The Cat S22 Flip is considered one of the best dumbphones for those switching from a smartphone but don’t want to quit essential apps like WhatsApp, Spotify, Uber, and Maps. It’s a MIL-STD-810H-certified rugged phone perfectly suitable for construction sites and challenging conditions.

Unlike most dumbphones, the Cat S22 Flip runs full Android OS with Google Play Store. It can also run social media apps like Instagram or TikTok, but the processor is just slow enough that the social media experience would feel terrible. Plus, the small screen size would naturally force you to stop using those apps.

The Cat S22 Flip mainly solves the biggest fear of switching to a dumbphone for most people. That includes having access to GPS, your music streaming app, and your ride-sharing apps like Uber. One downside though: because it runs full Android OS, the battery only lasts just over a day

Cat S22 Flip specs:

• Display: 2.8-inch touchscreen (main), 1.44-inch (external)
• Camera: 5MP (rear), 2MP (front)
• Processor: Qualcomm Snapdragon 215 
• OS: Android 11 (Go Edition)
• RAM: 2GB
• Storage: 16GB, expandable up to 256GB via microSD
• Battery: 2200mAh (removable)
• Connectivity: 4G, Wi-Fi, Bluetooth 4.2, USB Type-C
• SIM: nano-SIM

6. Punkt MP02

The Punkt MP02 is famous for its unique aesthetics, while also bringing privacy-first software and the ability to use the encrypted messaging app Signal on a dumbphone. That means you can communicate securely over data/Wi-Fi without relying solely on standard SMS.

The phone boots Apostrophy OS, a custom hardened version of Android AOSP, with no browser, no ads, no tracking, and no app store. It has a monochrome interface that further prevents you from getting distracted by colors or icons.

Punkt M02 specs:

• Display: 2.0-inch VA TFT transflective
• Processor: Qualcomm Snapdragon 210 
• OS: Apostrophy (APHY 1.3)
• RAM: 2GB
• Storage: 16GB
• Battery: 1280mAh (removable)
• Connectivity: 4G LTE, Wi-Fi, Bluetooth 4.2, USB Type-C, GPS
• SIM: nano-SIM

7. Dumber Mini

The Dumber Mini is a custom-branded feature phone that is designed to reduce your smartphone addiction while also allowing necessary apps like WhatsApp, Messenger, Spotify, and Google Maps.

The phone doesn’t come with a Google Play Store, but has a built-in “More Apps” store that hosts only non-distracting, essential utilities like Calendar, Weather, and Notes. It also has a robust blocking tool that can permanently lock you out of distracting apps or browsers.

Dumber Mini specs:

• Display: small touchscreen
• OS: Dumber OS (based on Android 14 AOSP)
• Connectivity: 4G LTE, Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, USB Type-C, GPS, NFC
• SIM: Dual SIM support

8. HMD Barbie Phone

HMD Barbie Phone is considered an excellent “first phone” for children because it provides essential communication while intentionally removing the risks and distractions of a smartphone. 

The phone doesn’t have any social media or streaming apps. It’s designed to allow kids to stay connected using calls and texts without being exposed to cyberbullying or inappropriate internet content. Parents can further restrict the device by locking the browser, camera, or sharing features via a password-protected settings menu.

The HMD Barbie Phone comes in a jewelry-like box with multiple interchangeable back covers, stickers, and gems. It features a custom Barbie-themed UI, unique ringtone, and a specialized version of the Snake game.

HMD Barbie Phone specs:

• Display: 2.8-inch (main), 1.77-inch (external)
• Processor: Unisoc T107 (International) or Qualcomm Snapdragon 215 (US version) 
• Camera: 0.3MP (rear) with LED flash
• Storage: 128MB, expandable up to 32GB via microSD
• Battery: 1450mAh (removable)
• Connectivity: 4G LTE/VoLTE, Wi-Fi (US only), Bluetooth, USB Type-C, GPS (US only)

9. Easyfone Prime A6

The Easyfone Prime A6 is an excellent 4G feature phone designed specifically for senior citizens. It prioritizes ease of use, safety, and high visibility, while stripping away the complexities of modern smartphones to provide a reliable dumbphone experience.

The phone features large font display and extra-large backlit buttons with talking numbers feature that reads out each digit as it pressed to ensure correct dialing. It’s M4/T4 leading aid compatible, ensuring clearer sound quality for those using assistive listening devices.

Easyfone Prime A6 has a dedicated SOS key on the back that can be set to automatically alert up to 5 emergency contacts. When pressed, it triggers a siren, sends text messages with location and medical details, and calls the contacts repeatedly until answered. Furthermore, the phone features prominent physical side sliders for locking/unlocking the screen and activating the dedicated torch (flashlight).

Easyfone Prime A6 specs:

• Display: 1.8-inch TFT LCD
• Storage: 64MB, expandable up to 32GB via microSD
• Battery: 1050mAh (removable)
• Connectivity: 4G, Bluetooth, USB Type-C, GPS (US only)
• SIM: nano-SIM

The post The best dumbphones to buy in July 2026 appeared first on Gizmochina.

As we head into the second half of 2026, getting a smartwatch to last through a long weekend is no longer a challenge. The combination of high-density silicon-carbon batteries and more efficient processors means that multi-day battery life has simply become the baseline for most new devices.

For this list, we are focusing entirely on full-fledged smartwatches. While there are specialized, rugged watches built specifically for hikers and endurance runners that offer significantly longer battery life, they usually achieve that by stripping away everyday smart features and apps. If you are looking for a device that offers a complete wearable experience without needing a daily charge, here is a look at the most reliable options currently on the market.

Xiaomi Watch 5

This watch runs Wear OS 6, an operating system that typically drains batteries quickly due to its heavy app integration and background syncing. However, the Xiaomi Watch 5 manages to provide up to six days of battery life in standard smart mode, and up to 18 days if you switch to power-saving mode.

It achieves this by utilizing a 930mAh silicon-carbon battery, a newer battery technology that allows for higher energy density without increasing the physical size or weight of the watch.

Additionally, it uses a dual-chip setup, pairing a main Snapdragon processor with a low-power co-processor. The co-processor handles basic background tasks like step counting and notifications, which prevents the main chip from waking up unnecessarily and draining power.

This makes it a highly practical choice if you want access to the full suite of Google apps, such as Maps and Wallet, without having to charge your watch every night.

OnePlus Watch 4

Another strong Wear OS 6 option, the OnePlus Watch 4 offers about five days of battery life in its standard smart mode. If you use it heavily, meaning frequent GPS tracking for outdoor runs, continuous heart rate monitoring, and streaming music offline, that battery life drops to roughly three days.

However, if you need to stretch the battery further, the watch includes a dedicated power-save mode. By disabling the main processor and full Wear OS functions, it relies on a low-power co-processor to handle basic timekeeping, step tracking, and essential notifications, which can extend the battery life up to 16 days.

It is equipped with a 646mAh battery that supports fast charging, allowing you to fully recharge the device from zero to 100% in about 75 minutes.

The watch features a titanium alloy case and a bright LTPO OLED display. The LTPO technology is particularly helpful for battery conservation, as it allows the screen’s refresh rate to drop significantly when you are not actively interacting with it.

It functions well as an everyday watch that provides premium materials and can comfortably last through a long weekend trip without needing a charger.

Huawei Watch GT Runner 2

If you primarily want a smartwatch for tracking workouts and do not need access to third-party apps, the Huawei Watch GT Runner 2 (full review) is a very efficient option.

It runs proprietary HarmonyOS rather than a resource-heavy platform like Wear OS, it provides up to 14 days of battery life with light use, or about seven days under typical daily conditions.

For runners and hikers, the most relevant specification is its continuous GPS tracking capability. The watch can record up to 32 hours of continuous dual-band GPS tracking on a single charge, making it useful for marathons, ultramarathons, or multi-day hiking trips.

It also features a lightweight build at just 34.5 grams and a breathable strap, focusing entirely on comfort and detailed fitness metrics rather than smartwatch app ecosystems.

Apple Watch Ultra 3

For iPhone users wanting to stay within the Apple ecosystem, the Apple Watch Ultra 3 offers up to 42 hours of normal use on a single charge. If you need to extend that, turning on Low Power Mode will give you up to 72 hours by limiting background heart rate measurements and delaying some notifications.

While it does not last as long as the dedicated fitness watches, the S10 chip and watchOS 26 optimizations make it efficient enough to prevent the need for daily charging, even with an always-on display and cellular connectivity active.

When the battery does run low, the fast-charging capability is quite useful, a 15-minute charge provides about 12 hours of standard use, which makes it relatively easy to keep the watch topped up while you take a shower or get ready for the day.

Samsung Galaxy Watch Ultra

The current Samsung Galaxy Watch Ultra provides up to 100 hours of battery life in Power Saving mode, or 48 hours in Exercise Power Saving mode, drawing from its 590mAh battery. It runs Wear OS 6 layered with Samsung’s One UI 8 Watch interface, providing deep integration with Android smartphones.

For people already using Samsung devices, a practical detail is how the watch works alongside the Galaxy Ring. If you wear them both, they split the health-tracking workload. The ring can handle background tasks like monitoring your sleep and continuous heart rate, which lets the watch turn off those specific sensors to save battery.

This distribution of work can reduce the watch’s power consumption and extend its overall battery life by about 30%, depending on your daily usage patterns.

It is also worth noting that Samsung is expected to release the next-generation Galaxy Watch Ultra 2 later this month. According to recent hardware leaks, this upcoming model will be equipped with a larger battery capacity, which should further improve its overall longevity and reduce the frequency of required charging.

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The Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 is a no-brainer pick if you want the absolute best capabilities on your next upgrade. The processor delivers top-tier performance and power efficiency, smooth gameplay at extreme graphics settings, and excellent agentic AI capabilities. However, choosing the right smartphone can be challenging.

There are over a dozen Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 phones out there (check the full list here), and going through each of them will likely cost you a few hours. So we did the hard work and narrowed the list down to five. Check them out below to find your next best upgrade.

5 Best Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 phones to buy in July 2026

1. Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra

The Galaxy S26 Ultra is perhaps a suitable option for most people. It’s got a high-quality, bright AMOLED screen, a 5000mAh battery lasting over a day, and robust connectivity features. The device is powered by the Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 for Galaxy, which runs at a higher speed than the regular version.

The quad-camera setup on the back takes excellent photos and videos, which includes a massive 200MP main camera, two telephoto sensors (one with 3x optical zoom, another with 5x optical zoom), and a 50MP ultrawide camera. There’s a 12MP front-facing camera. The S26 Ultra comes with the best software support for seven years you can get on an Android device.

Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra specs:

2. Oppo Find X9 Ultra

The Oppo Find X9 Ultra is a heavily spec-ed phone, featuring the powerful Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 at its core. The AMOLED screen produces great colors and has excellent outdoor visibility. You may not have to charge it very often, as it packs a massive 7050mAh battery that can last up to two days on normal usage.

The Find X9 Ultra has one of the best cameras on any phone. The rear camera setup includes two massive 200MP sensors and two 50MP sensors, which take excellent photos and videos in any lighting conditions. The 50MP selfie camera also performs well.

Oppo Find X9 Ultra specs:

3. Xiaomi 17 Ultra

The Xiaomi 17 Ultra is also a top-tier smartphone, pushing the limits of its Ultra phones even higher. This one has a Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 at its core and packs a 6000mAh battery that lasts more than a day on normal usage, with support for fast charging.

The Xiaomi phone features a high-end rear camera setup that takes photos and videos with great detail, accurate colors, and sharpness. It can record up to 8K videos, and the 50MP selfie camera supports up to 4K recording. With robust connectivity and high-quality sound, the Xiaomi 17 Ultra becomes an excellent high-end option for most people.

Xiaomi 17 Ultra specs:

4. OnePlus 15

OnePlus 15 is one of the most affordable phones with a Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 chip. It features a 6.78-inch LTPO AMOLED screen with a high refresh rate and Ultra HDR image support.

The smartphone is equipped with a high-end triple-camera setup, with all sensors featuring 50MP resolution. One of them is a wide sensor, one is a 3.5x periscope telephoto sensor, and one is an ultrawide unit. Plus, it has a 32MP selfie snapper.

The OnePlus 15 comfortably lasts more than a day and can stretch to an additional day with light usage. Plus, the charging speeds are fast enough to refill the battery in minutes.

OnePlus 15 specs:

5. Nubia RedMagic 11S Pro

If gaming is your priority, the RedMagic 11S Pro delivers big. It comes with a modified Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 Leading Version with higher clock speeds to unlock maximum performance. It also has a dedicated RedCore R4 Gaming chip that offloads secondary tasks such as audio processing and haptic vibration mapping, so the main Snapdragon processor can focus entirely on delivering maximum frame rates.

With maximum performance comes a great deal of heat, and to handle it, the phone has a built-in 24,000 RPM turbo fan, a liquid metal thermal interface, and a massive 13,116 sq. mm vapor chamber. It’s equipped with dual pressure-sensitive touchpads on the frame as capacitive bumpers.

The RedMagic 11S Pro has a high-resolution AMOLED screen with high refresh and touch sampling rates. The 16MP selfie camera is fitted under the screen to deliver the best gaming experience. You wouldn’t expect a flagship camera on a gaming phone, but the RedMagic 11S Pro still delivers good results where there’s enough light.

Nubia RedMagic 11S Pro specs:

The post 5 Best Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 Phones (July 2026) appeared first on Gizmochina.

There are a lot of reasons to want a portable projector instead of just streaming on your laptop or phone: you want a movie-night image that’s actually big, you’re traveling and don’t want to lug a TV, or you just want to point something at a blank wall and have it turn into a screen in under a minute. 

We go back through this category every few months, and this stretch of July is an especially interesting time to buy. XGIMI has new hardware landing in the next few days, JMGO has recently expanded its lineup with a new 4K portable projector, and several models that were heavily discounted earlier this month have returned to their regular prices. If you’re shopping now, it’s worth focusing on long-term value rather than temporary sales.

But before buying, you should know a few basics about the projector. They have a few types: LED models are the cheapest and most common, laser models are brighter and more color-accurate but cost more, and a growing number now blend the two. Battery life, auto-keystone, and whether Google TV or Netflix is built in without a dongle matter just as much as brightness once you’re actually using one of these day-to-day. With that in mind, here’s what’s actually worth your attention this month.

XGIMI Elfin Flip 4K

XGIMI is announcing the Elfin Flip 4K on July 15th, and it’s the most ambitious projector from the brand yet.  

It’s XGIMI’s first small laser projector with native 4K support. It runs on a new RGB tri-color laser engine that XGIMI says offers color accuracy with ΔE of under 1. For those unaware, the value is closer to reference-monitor territory than portable projectors usually bother with. Color coverage is rated at 110% of BT.2020.

The body carries over the same 150-degree adjustable stand-and-handle design the Elfin Flip line has used since its debut. If that name rings a bell, we’ve previously covered the original Elfin Flip’s debut back at IFA 2024, when it launched at $399 with 400 ISO lumens and nothing close to a laser engine. Two years later, the same shell is carrying a 4K chip, which says a lot about how fast this category is moving.

It also runs Google TV out of the box, so there’s no separate streaming stick to carry, and it supports ALLM and VRR for your gaming needs.

The projector is currently on pre-order till July 14th, and if you do, you can claim 10% off for paying in full, plus a free portable screen or a set of 3D glasses depending on the model.

XGIMI Elfin Flip Laser

The Elfin Flip Laser launches the same day as its 4K sibling but sticks to 1080p — and it’s trading resolution for a claimed 1,600 ISO lumens. Everything else is the same: same stand, same Google TV software, same ALLM and VRR support if you want to plug in a Switch or a Steam Deck for something less serious than a movie. 

If the brightness number holds up, this is the one we’d point most people toward, since 1080p at this size rarely looks meaningfully worse than 4K unless you’re sitting close enough to count pixels.

JMGO N3 Ultimate

JMGO isn’t a household name in the way XGIMI or Nebula is, but the Chinese projector maker has quietly built a reputation for high-end laser projectors over the past few years.

While the company first gained traction in Asia, its recent global expansion has put models like the N1S Ultra and the new N3 Ultimate in front of a much wider audience.

The N3 Ultimate is the company’s new flagship projector with a 4K DLP projection system and JMGO’s latest MALC 5.0 RGB triple-laser light engine. It delivers up to 5,800 ISO lumens, covers 110% of the BT.2020 color space, and supports both Dolby Vision and HDR10+ standards. 

Instead of relying entirely on digital keystone correction, JMGO offers motorized optical zoom, motorized lens shift, and a two-axis AI-powered gimbal that makes setup easier without sacrificing image quality. It runs Google TV out of the box, supports VRR for gaming, and can accept signals up to 1080p at 240Hz.

XGIMI Vibe One

The XGIMI Vibe One, which usually retails for $250, is currently available for $219, making it a great deal for the price.

It’s a simple, battery-powered 1080p projector with Google TV built in, and at that price it’s hard to find anything else in the category with a proper smart TV platform baked in rather than a streaming stick taped to the side. At $219, it’s hard to find anything else in the category with Google TV actually built in

Anker Soundcore Nebula Mars 3 Air

The new XGIMI models are appealing, but the Nebula Mars 3 Air from Anker is a safe choice if the latest hardware is not what you crave. It is one of the easiest portable projectors to recommend thanks to its balance of image quality, battery life, and genuinely useful smart features.

The Mars 3 Air uses a native 1080p DLP projection system with 400 ANSI lumens and has a built-in battery that provides up to 2.5 hours of video playback. It ships with Google TV with officially licensed Netflix support, so you can start streaming without plugging in a Fire TV Stick or Chromecast. It also includes dual 8W Dolby Audio speakers that are good enough for casual movie nights without needing external speakers.

Anker also took care of convenience with Intelligent Environment Adaptation, which automatically handles autofocus, keystone correction, screen fit, and obstacle avoidance in just a few seconds after you move the projector. It isn’t as bright as the latest laser projectors from XGIMI or JMGO, but for buyers who value portability and an all-in-one streaming experience over headline brightness figures, it’s still one of the strongest options in its class.

How I’d decide

If you’ve got two weeks of patience, wait for the Elfin Flip 4K or Laser. You’re paying full price, but you get the newest light engine on the market and the longest runway before it feels behind. That’s the right call if you’re keeping this thing for years or actually want 4K in something you can throw in a bag.

If you want something proven and cheap right now, the Vibe One or Anker are genuinely good value. They’re the smarter pick if 1080p and moderate brightness cover what you actually watch, which, for most people doing casual movie nights rather than building out a dedicated home theater, it does.

Whichever way you go, don’t get hypnotized by a big lumens number on a box. A laser-lit 1080p image will often look sharper in a dark room than a cheaper 4K unit running a weak lamp at full blast. Check whether the brightness rating was measured with the fan on full performance mode, since some of those numbers aren’t sustainable for a two-hour movie without the projector sounding like a hair dryer, and if you’re planning to use any of this outdoors, budget for a power bank or a screen on top of the sticker price.

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Compact smartphones have become increasingly rare, especially in the mid-premium segment. Most brands have shifted towards larger displays, leaving users who prefer one-handed devices with limited choices. The Oppo Reno 16 attempts to fill that gap with a 6.32-inch display, premium build, capable cameras, and a massive 6,700mAh battery packed into a surprisingly compact body.

On paper, it ticks almost every box. You get four 50-megapixel cameras, IP69-level durability, ColorOS 16 with several new AI features, and long software support. However, there’s one specification that raises eyebrows considering its Rs 61,999 starting price.

After spending some time with the Twilight Violet 8GB+256GB variant, here’s whether the Reno 16 deserves a place on your shortlist.

Designed for One-Handed Comfort

Oppo has always excelled at smartphone design, and the Reno 16 continues that tradition. My review unit in Twilight Violet looks elegant without trying too hard. The subtle finish catches light beautifully, while the matte rear panel does an excellent job of resisting fingerprints. It feels premium the moment you pick it up.

The aerospace-grade aluminum frame adds to the flagship-like in-hand feel, while the compact dimensions make the Reno 16 stand out in a sea of oversized smartphones. At just 182 grams and 8.22mm thick, it’s comfortable to use with one hand, and I never found myself stretching awkwardly to reach different parts of the display.

Despite its slim profile, Oppo hasn’t compromised on durability. The Reno 16 carries IP66, IP68, IP69, and IP69K ratings, making it one of the most durable smartphones in this segment. Whether it’s rain, accidental spills, or dusty environments, the phone inspires confidence.

The dedicated AI Snap Key on the left frame is a welcome addition. While it’s designed around Oppo’s AI ecosystem, I found it equally useful as a shortcut for launching the camera or other customizable functions.

The only ergonomic complaint I have is the fingerprint scanner. It’s quick and reliable, but positioned slightly too low on the display, which occasionally required an extra thumb stretch.

Compact Outside, Immersive Inside

The Reno 16 features a 6.32-inch AMOLED panel with a 1.5K resolution, 120Hz adaptive refresh rate, HDR10+ support, and up to 3,600 nits peak brightness.

Simply put, it’s an excellent display.

Colours are vibrant without looking exaggerated, blacks are deep, and text appears razor-sharp thanks to the high pixel density. Whether I was browsing social media, streaming videos, or reading articles, the display remained enjoyable throughout.

The slim and symmetrical bezels further enhance the viewing experience, making the phone feel more premium than many competitors. Even though it’s a compact device, I never felt like I was sacrificing screen real estate.

The stereo speakers complement the display nicely. They deliver good volume with clear vocals and decent stereo separation, making casual gaming and video streaming enjoyable without immediately reaching for earphones.

Smooth Every Day, But Not Built for Speed

Powering the Reno 16 is Qualcomm’s Snapdragon 7 Gen 4 chipset paired with 8GB of LPDDR5X RAM and 256GB of UFS 3.1 storage. It also comes in a 12GB+256GB version.

For everyday use, performance is exactly what you’d expect from a polished premium smartphone. Apps launch quickly, multitasking is effortless, animations remain fluid, and I didn’t encounter noticeable slowdowns during regular usage.

Gaming performance is respectable too. BGMI and Call of Duty: Mobile ran smoothly with stable frame rates, while the phone remained reasonably cool thanks to its vapor chamber cooling system.

The issue isn’t that the Snapdragon 7 Gen 4 performs poorly. Rather, it’s difficult to ignore that several competitors around this price offer flagship-grade chipsets with noticeably higher performance. If gaming or benchmark numbers are your highest priority, there are stronger alternatives available.

Storage speeds are quick enough for daily use, and the 256GB capacity should comfortably accommodate apps, photos, and videos for most users.

AI That Actually Feels Useful

The Reno 16 ships with Android 16-based ColorOS 16, and it remains one of the cleanest and most refined Android skins available today.

Animations are smooth, customization options are plentiful, and the interface rarely gets in your way. Oppo also promises five Android updates alongside six years of security patches, which is reassuring for anyone planning to keep the phone for several years.

This generation also introduces several AI-powered additions. The new AI Snap Key works alongside AI Mind Space, allowing users to quickly save screenshots, notes, and useful information in a central location. AI Mind Pilot combines multiple AI assistants into a unified interface, while features such as AI Writer, AI Recording, AI Eraser, AI Portrait Glow, and AI Menu Translation add genuine day-to-day convenience.

There are a handful of pre-installed third-party applications out of the box, but thankfully, most of them can be removed within a few minutes.

Here’s how the Reno 16 performed on benchmarking platforms.

Battery Life That Keeps Going

The Reno 16 houses a massive 6,700mAh silicon-carbon battery, and battery life is one of its biggest strengths.

Even with a mix of photography, social media, streaming, navigation, messaging, and occasional gaming, the phone comfortably lasted an entire day with charge to spare. Lighter users could even stretch it into a second day.

Charging is handled by Oppo’s 80W fast charging, which keeps downtime minimal despite the large battery. A quick top-up before heading out is often enough to comfortably last the rest of the day.

Combined with the efficient software optimization, battery anxiety simply wasn’t part of my experience with the Reno 16.

One small omission worth mentioning is NFC support. It won’t affect everyone, but at this price point, it would have been nice to see it included.

The Best Reason to Buy the Reno 16

Photography has always been the Reno series’ strongest selling point, and the Reno 16 continues that tradition.

The phone features a 50-megapixel Sony LYT-600 primary camera with OIS, a 50-megapixel ultra-wide camera with autofocus, a 50-megapixel 3.5x periscope telephoto camera with OIS, and a 50-megapixel autofocus selfie camera.

It’s one of the most versatile camera systems you’ll find in this segment.

The primary camera consistently captures detailed photos with pleasing colours and excellent dynamic range. Oppo continues to favor natural-looking processing instead of oversaturated colors, and the results are easy to appreciate. Exposure remains reliable even in challenging lighting conditions.

The telephoto camera is arguably my favorite lens on the phone. Portraits look excellent with natural facial proportions, good background separation, and realistic skin tones. It also delivers impressive zoom quality without relying excessively on AI sharpening.

The upgraded ultra-wide camera is another welcome improvement. Color consistency between all three rear cameras is excellent, making lens switching feel seamless. Autofocus also enables close-up photography, although there isn’t a dedicated telemacro mode. Honestly, that’s not something I’d expect on the standard Reno 16 anyway.

Selfies are equally impressive. The autofocus front camera captures plenty of detail while maintaining natural skin tones, making it one of the better selfie cameras in this price range.

Low-light photography is another strength. Images retain good detail without looking artificially bright, and Night mode further improves shadow recovery while preserving the atmosphere of the scene.

Video recording is equally capable, with support for 4K 60fps HDR across all four cameras, ensuring consistent quality regardless of which lens you’re using. My only disappointment is that portrait video remains limited to 1080p.

As for the optional Oppo Bubble accessory, I wasn’t able to test it since it wasn’t included with my review unit.

Verdict

The Oppo Reno 16 is a polished smartphone that focuses on getting the fundamentals right instead of chasing flashy specifications.

Its compact premium design, excellent camera system, vibrant display, long-lasting battery, polished software, and impressive durability make it one of the most enjoyable Android phones to use daily. The cameras, in particular, remain the biggest reason to consider this device.

The biggest hurdle is its pricing. At Rs 61,999, the Snapdragon 7 Gen 4 doesn’t quite match what several competitors offer in terms of raw performance. For everyday users, this may not matter much, but gamers and power users are likely to notice the difference.

If your priorities are cameras, battery life, software, and a genuinely compact flagship-like experience, the Reno 16 is easy to recommend. Just be aware that you’re paying a premium for refinement rather than benchmark-leading performance.

How It Stacks Up Against the Competition

If performance is your highest priority, the OnePlus 15R and Vivo X200T offer considerably more powerful chipsets while remaining competitively priced. The Xiaomi 17T is another strong option if you don’t mind a slightly larger phone and want flagship-level performance.

Interestingly, the Oppo Reno 15 Pro Mini may end up being the Reno 16’s biggest rival. Starting at Rs 59,999, it offers a faster Dimensity 8450 chipset, triple 200-megapixel cameras, and support for the optional Oppo Bubble accessory. The Reno 16, however, counters with a larger battery, newer AI features, and the dedicated AI Snap Key, making the better choice depend on your priorities.

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The post Oppo Reno 16 Review: A Compact Camera Phone That Gets Almost Everything Right appeared first on Gizmochina.

Google’s hardware events rarely come with surprises these days. The company has a well-documented history of its upcoming devices appearing online months before they are officially announced, and the Pixel Watch 5 is following that same pattern.

With the Made by Google event scheduled for August 12, 2026, a bit earlier than the company’s usual fall timeline, Google is preparing to introduce the Pixel 11 smartphone lineup alongside its newest smartwatch. Thanks to a series of supply chain reports, regulatory filings, and one unusual real-world discovery, we already have a clear idea of what the Pixel Watch 5 will offer.

Based on the leaks, the upcoming watch looks very similar to last year’s Pixel Watch 4, but it will come with a few new hardware updates and a higher price tag. Here is a breakdown of what to expect.

Underwater prototype

If you were expecting a major redesign for the Pixel Watch 5, the current evidence suggests otherwise. In an unusual turn of events, a prototype of the device was recently found underwater. Randy Pitchford, the co-founder of Gearbox Software, was scuba diving near the Caribbean island of St. Martin when he discovered the unreleased smartwatch.

Pitchford posted photos of the device online, which confirmed a few basic details. First, Google is sticking with the familiar circular, domed glass design that has defined the Pixel Watch line since its introduction. Second, the device’s water resistance appears to be quite effective. Despite being submerged in the ocean, the watch was still functioning in low-power mode and displaying the correct time.

The markings on the back of the recovered prototype also confirmed a few specifications, including a 45mm size option, IP68 water and dust resistance, an ultra-wideband (UWB) chip, and the standard array of health sensors for tracking heart rate, SpO2, and skin temperature.

Sizing and new color options

Google introduced a larger size option with the Pixel Watch 4, and it looks like that strategy is continuing. The Pixel Watch 5 will reportedly be available in both 41mm and 45mm variants, giving users an option depending on their wrist size and screen preference.

While the overall shape remains the same, Google is updating the color options. According to leaks from Dealabs, the company is introducing a new color called “Pyrite.” It is described as a pale, brassy-yellow hue with a matte finish, and it will be available on both watch sizes.

For the 41mm model, buyers will reportedly have four finishes to choose from: Dark Anthracite (matte), Natural Silver (polished), Pyrite (matte), and Warm Gold (polished). The larger 45mm model will have a slightly smaller selection, dropping the Warm Gold option but keeping Dark Anthracite, Natural Silver, and Pyrite.

Processors and ultra-wideband

The internal hardware is where things are a bit less clear. The previous generation used the Qualcomm Snapdragon W5 Gen 2 chip, which provided a much-needed improvement to battery life and everyday performance. For the Pixel Watch 5, the rumors are currently divided.

Some reports indicate Google will use Qualcomm’s newer Snapdragon Wear Elite chipset, which would likely bring standard improvements to battery efficiency and app loading times. Other rumors suggest Google might introduce a custom Tensor chip for its wearables, aligning the watch with the processors used in its Pixel phones.

Regardless of the processor, the addition of an ultra-wideband (UWB) chip is a practical upgrade. UWB technology allows for precise spatial tracking. In everyday use, this means the Find My Device network will be much more accurate if you misplace your watch, and it could also allow the Pixel Watch 5 to function as a digital car key for supported vehicles.

Pricing

The Pixel Watch 5 is expected to see a price increase across all models, marking the first time Google has raised the base price of the lineup since the original watch launched in 2022.

According to leaked pricing data for the US and Europe, the base 41mm Wi-Fi model will start at $399. That is a $50 increase over the Pixel Watch 4. The larger 45mm Wi-Fi model is expected to start at $429, representing a $30 increase.

The models with cellular connectivity will also cost more. The 41mm LTE version is rumored to be priced at $499, while the 45mm LTE model will likely cost $529.

This price adjustment is likely tied to broader trends in the tech industry. Manufacturers are currently dealing with higher component costs, particularly for memory and storage chips, due to increased demand in other tech sectors.

Rather than absorbing these higher manufacturing costs, it appears Google is adjusting the retail price accordingly. At $399, the Pixel Watch 5 will sit in the same price bracket as the base Apple Watch Series 11.

Release date

Google’s hardware event will take place in New York City on August 12, 2026. Pre-orders for the Pixel Watch 5 and the Pixel 11 series are expected to open on the same day. The devices are expected to begin shipping to customers and arrive in retail stores a week later, on August 20.

We will know the full details soon enough, but for now, it looks like the Pixel Watch 5 will be a straightforward refinement of last year’s model, focused on internal upgrades rather than a visual overhaul.

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Thunderbolt 5 docking stations are finally here  — from brands old and new. Although Intel unveiled this next-generation connectivity standard back in 2023, it took another couple of years for laptop makers and accessory brands to catch up. It wasn’t until 2025 and 2026 that the first wave of Thunderbolt 5 docks became widely available in the US, alongside laptops capable of taking advantage of their higher bandwidth.

The wait wasn’t just about getting a newer connector. Thunderbolt 5 doubles the available bandwidth over Thunderbolt 4 and opens the door to faster external SSDs, multiple high-resolution monitors, higher refresh rate displays, and more demanding desktop setups, all through a single cable.

Of course, not every Thunderbolt 5 dock is built the same. Some prioritize a huge selection of ports, while others focus on charging power, display support, or compact designs that are easier to carry between home and the office. 

We’ve rounded up the best Thunderbolt 5 docking stations you can buy right now, whether you’re building a multi-monitor workstation, expanding your laptop’s connectivity, or simply looking for the fastest dock available.

UGREEN Maxidok 17-in-1 and 10-in-1

UGREEN entered the US market with two docks under its Maxidok line, part of the Revodok series. The Maxidok 17-in-1 includes 17 ports total, two Thunderbolt 5 ports rated at up to 120Gbps, three USB-A and three USB-C ports at 10Gbps, and a built-in M.2 NVMe SSD slot that supports drives up to 8TB over an 80Gbps connection (full specs and pricing here). It supports up to 140W of charging and can drive dual 8K displays on compatible Windows systems.

The Maxidok 10-in-1 is the lower-priced model, listed between $229 and $249. It carries the same 120Gbps data rate and can output to a single 8K display or dual 6K displays on Thunderbolt 5 Macs, along with 140W of total power delivery. Both docks went on sale in the US in March 2026, with the 17-in-1 priced around $389.

Satechi Thunderbolt 5 CubeDock

Satechi’s first Thunderbolt 5 product, the CubeDock, was first announced at CES in January 2026 and has begun shipping this spring only. It is built as a small aluminum cube sized to match Apple’s Mac mini. It includes a slot for an M.2 NVMe SSD and supports up to 8TB of storage with read and write speeds up to 6,000MB/s.

The CubeDock has three downstream Thunderbolt 5 ports, a 2.5Gb Ethernet port, SD and microSD card readers, and 140W of laptop charging via an 180W external power supply. It supports dual 6K displays at 60Hz on compatible Macs, and up to three displays on Windows systems or the newest M5 Pro and Max MacBook Pro models. It does not include a built-in HDMI or DisplayPort output, so some monitors will require an adapter cable. It’s priced at $399.99.

Keychron’s First Docking Station

Keychron, known mainly for keyboards and mice, released its first docking station just recently. The Thunderbolt 5 Dock (14-in-1) uses an Intel-certified Thunderbolt 5 controller, offers 80Gbps of bidirectional bandwidth, and supports up to four external displays with 140W of charging over a single cable. 

The dock uses a CNC-machined aluminum chassis with a fanless cooling design and can be oriented vertically or horizontally on a desk (full launch details here). Ports include Thunderbolt 5, HDMI, USB-A, USB-C, 2.5G Ethernet, and memory card slots. It works with both Windows and Mac systems and is backward compatible with Thunderbolt 4 and USB4. It is priced at $349.99 in the US.

Kensington SD5010T5 EQ

Kensington released the SD5010T5 EQ in May 2026 as a lower-cost entry into Thunderbolt 5 docking. It runs at 80Gbps of data speed and supports triple 4K monitors or dual 8K monitors on Windows systems. For connectivity, you get 13 total ports, 140W of charging, a 2.5Gbps Ethernet port, and SD and microSD card slots.

It is also compatible with Thunderbolt 5, Thunderbolt 4, USB4, and USB-C devices running Windows 11 or macOS 14.5 and later. The case uses recycled aluminum, and Kensington includes free DockWorks software for Windows users to adjust settings. It is priced at $299.99.

Belkin 14-in-1 Thunderbolt 5 Dock

Belkin added a 14-in-1 Thunderbolt 5 dock to its lineup, connecting through a primary Thunderbolt 5 upstream port that delivers up to 140W of charging. The dock runs at 80Gbps for standard transfers and reallocates bandwidth up to 120Gbps for high-resolution or high-refresh displays (full specs here). 

The dock can output video via one DisplayPort 2.1 port and one HDMI 2.1 port, both rated up to 8K at 60Hz or 4K at 240Hz. On compatible Windows machines, it can drive up to three external 4K displays at 144Hz. The aluminum chassis also includes a 2.5 Gigabit Ethernet port, a 3.5mm audio jack, and UHS-II SD and microSD card readers.

Plugable TBT-UDT3 and TBT-UDH2

Plugable’s TBT-UDT3, on sale since 2025, has three Thunderbolt 5 ports running at the full 120Gbps boost rate, enough to run three external monitors, along with 2.5GbE, SD and microSD slots, USB ports, and 140W of charging, priced at $299.95. It received a Macworld Best of 2026 award and a PCWorld Editors’ Choice badge. It does not include built-in HDMI, so multi-monitor setups need adapter cables.

Plugable also introduced a new flagship model, the TBT-UDH2, at CES 2026. Unlike the TBT-UDT3, it includes two built-in HDMI 2.1 outputs, supporting two 4K monitors at 144Hz without adapters, along with additional USB connectivity and 140W of host charging.

Lenovo ThinkPad Thunderbolt 5 Smart Dock 7500

Lenovo introduced the ThinkPad Thunderbolt 5 Smart Dock 7500 alongside two lower-tier docks at IFA 2025. The Thunderbolt 5 model delivers up to 120Gbps of bandwidth and supports three 8K displays at 60Hz plus a fourth 4K display, or two 4K displays at 240Hz alongside two more at 120Hz (full lineup details here). 

It provides PD 3.1 charging up to 180W and includes cloud-based management tools for IT departments to monitor and update docks remotely. It became available starting October 2025 at €399.

Things you should consider

A Thunderbolt 4 dock remains a lower-cost option for basic setups involving a single monitor and a handful of USB devices. Thunderbolt 5 docks are for users working with large video files, multiple high-resolution displays, or fast external storage. 

Among the models covered here, the UGREEN Maxidok 10-in-1 and Plugable TBT-UDT3 offer lower prices relative to their port count and speed, while the Satechi CubeDock and UGREEN Maxidok 17-in-1 add built-in SSD storage for users who need it. Keychron, Kensington, Belkin, and Lenovo’s new entries give buyers additional options across different price points and use cases. At the end, the best Thunderbolt 5 docking station depends on your usage and budget.

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The Snapdragon 8s Gen 4 is a high-end smartphone chipset that can smoothly handle day-to-day operations as well as long sessions of high-end games, while offering excellent power efficiency. Because chips are getting more and more expensive, more people are buying Snapdragon 8s Gen 4-powered phones, as they deliver flagship performance without burning a hole in their pockets.

We’ve prepared a list of phones powered by the Snapdragon 8s Gen 4, along with quick overviews and spec sheets, so you can pick your next best upgrade. To keep it relevant for our readers, we didn’t include devices that are exclusive to China.

Snapdragon 8s Gen 4 phones: Here’s the complete list

1. OnePlus Nord 6
2. POCO F7
3. Nothing Phone 3
4. iQOO Neo 10
5. Oppo K13 Turbo Pro

Let’s go through them one by one in detail.

1. OnePlus Nord 6

It’s one of the latest phones to come with a Snapdragon 8s Gen 4 processor, and it also offers solid value. The phone rocks a 6.78-inch AMOLED screen, stereo speakers, and a 7500mAh battery with 80W fast charging support. The India model gets a massive 9000mAh battery with faster 27W reverse wired charging (6.5W for the global variant).

The OnePlus Nord 6 features a dual rear camera setup: a 50MP primary camera with OIS and an 8MP ultrawide camera. Plus, there’s a 32MP front-facing camera for selfies and video calls. The device features modern connectivity standards, an optical fingerprint scanner, and excellent software support.

OnePlus Nord 6 specs:

2. POCO F7

POCO smartphones are generally tuned to unlock higher performance. So, you can expect the POCO F7 to deliver slightly better performance than most devices on the list, even though they all feature the same processor.

The POCO smartphone offers a 6.83-inch bright AMOLED screen, a dual rear camera setup, including a 50MP main sensor and an 8MP ultrawide lens, and a 20MP selfie camera. It’s also offered in two battery versions, with the Indian model getting a bigger battery capacity, just like the OnePlus Nord 6.

POCO F7 specs:

3. Nothing Phone (3)

The Nothing Phone (3), now available at less than half of its original price, is a solid pick on the list. Besides an excellent Snapdragon processor, the phone offers a high-end triple-camera setup that includes a telephoto lens you don’t get on any other phone on the list.

Software is another major perk of getting a Nothing phone. It offers a unique Nothing-styled UI without any bloatware. Launched with Android 15, the Phone (3) promises up to 5 major Android OS upgrades. The device delivers a respectable battery backup with fast 65W wired charging. It also supports reverse wireless charging.

Nothing Phone (3) specs:

4. iQOO Neo 10

The iQOO Neo 10 is another performance-tuned phone on the list, featuring a dual rear camera setup: a 50MP primary camera and an 8MP ultrawide camera. The other side has a 32MP snapper for selfies and video calls.

The phone offers a 6.78-inch AMOLED screen with higher peak brightness, robust connectivity features, and a big 7000mAh battery with 120W superfast charging. In addition to reverse wired charging, the phone also supports a bypass charging feature to keep it cooler during gaming.

iQOO Neo 10 specs:

5. Oppo K13 Turbo Pro

The Oppo K13 Turbo Pro is a well-rounded phone, featuring the Snapdragon 8s Gen 4 SoC, a 6.8-inch AMOLED screen, and a 7000mAh battery with 80W fast charging support.

The smartphone features a dual rear camera setup, including a 50MP primary camera and a 2MP monochrome sensor. For selfies, there’s a 16MP camera. While it’s not a gaming-focused phone, there’s still a built-in cooling fan to keep the temperature in check.

Oppo K13 Turbo Pro specs:

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Smartphone batteries have come a long way, with most new phones now offering 5,000mAh to 6,000mAh batteries as standard. While that translates to better battery life, even the biggest batteries eventually run out, especially during travel, long workdays, or heavy gaming sessions. That’s when a reliable power bank becomes an essential accessory.

To help you pick the right power bank, we’ve rounded up six of the best power banks under Rs 2,000 that deliver excellent value for money.

How to choose a good power bank 

Choosing the right power bank starts with its capacity. A 10,000mAh model is ideal for everyday use and can recharge most smartphones around one to two times, while a 20,000mAh power bank is a better choice for frequent travellers, long commutes, or anyone who needs to charge multiple devices. Also, look for fast charging support of at least 20W or 22.5W, especially if your smartphone supports fast charging.

It’s also worth checking the number and type of ports. A USB-C port with Power Delivery offers faster charging for both the power bank and your devices, while an additional USB-A port adds compatibility with older gadgets.

Finally, make sure the power bank includes essential safety features such as protection against overheating, overcharging, overcurrent, and short circuits.

6 best power banks under Rs 2,000

Portronics Luxcell B

If you are looking for something affordable that does the job, check out the Portronics Luxcell B. It packs a 10,000mAh battery with 22.5W fast charging support, making it ideal for topping up your smartphone on the go.

Despite its capacity, it features a slim and lightweight design that’s easy to slip into a pocket or bag. You also get a USB Type-C port that works for both input and PD output, a USB-A port for charging another device, and an LED battery display that shows the remaining charge at a glance.

Spigen ArcPack

The ArcPack from Spigen packs a 10,000mAh battery into a compact body that’s easy to carry in your pocket. It also supports 30W fast charging, so you can quickly charge your smartphone, and even top up compatible tablets or lightweight laptops when needed. This one gets two USB-C ports and a USB-A port for charging multiple devices simultaneously.

Xiaomi Power Bank 4i

The Xiaomi Power Bank 4i packs a 10,000mAh battery in a slim, durable body with a premium anodised aluminium finish that resists everyday wear and tear.

It supports 22.5W fast charging with USB-C Power Delivery and Quick Charge 3.0, while its USB-C port and dual USB-A ports let you charge up to three devices simultaneously. It gets a 2-layer safety protection and two-way fast charging, so both your devices and the power bank recharge quickly.

Ambrane Stylo Boost

The Ambrane Stylo Boost is a great pick if you need more battery without spending too much. Its 20,000mAh capacity is enough to charge most smartphones multiple times, which makes it ideal for travel, long commutes, or busy workdays. It supports 22.5W fast charging and features USB-C Power Delivery along with multiple output ports, so you can charge more than one device at the same time.

URBN Nano Plus

The URBN Nano Plus combines a slim design with a large 20,000mAh battery. Despite the high capacity, it remains relatively easy to carry and supports 35W fast charging. With multiple output ports, you can charge your phone, accessories, and even some laptops. URBN also offers 1-year replacement warranty unlike some other brands.

Portronics Power Shutter

This one’s quite interesting, as it gets a point-and-shoot camera-like design that immediately sets it apart from most power banks on the market. Dubbed the Portronics Power Shutter, it packs a 10,000mAh battery and supports 15W magnetic wireless charging for MagSafe-compatible iPhones, making it a convenient for iPhone users.

It also offers 22.5W wired fast charging, built-in USB-C and Lightning cables, and an LED battery indicator, so you don’t have to carry extra cables or guess how much charge is left.

Which is the best 20,000mAh power bank?

The Ambrane Stylo Boost is one of the best all-round 20,000mAh power banks, thanks to its fast charging support, multiple ports, and affordable pricing.

Which is the best 10,000mAh power bank?

The Spigen ArcPack 10000mAh is the best overall 10,000mAh powerbank on this list, thanks to its compact design, premium build, and 30W fast charging support.

Can a power bank charge laptops?

Yes, but only if both the laptop and the power bank support USB-C Power Delivery (PD) with sufficient wattage. For instance, a 30W power bank can charge some thin-and-light laptops and tablets, but larger notebooks typically require 45W, 65W, or even higher output for efficient charging.

How many times can a 20,000mAh power bank charge a phone?

A 20,000mAh power bank can charge most smartphones around three to four times, depending on the phone’s battery capacity.

Can I carry a 20,000mAh power bank on a flight?

Yes, a 20,000mAh power bank is allowed in cabin baggage by most airlines but cannot be checked in.

So, which of these power banks is your pick? Let us know in the comments below.

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When Xiaomi announced the 17T and 17T Pro in May, a lot of the focus was on the Leica-branded cameras and the new high-brightness OLED displays. However, the feature that arguably has the biggest impact on everyday use is the battery technology under the hood.

By using silicon-carbon battery technology, Xiaomi managed to fit a 6,500mAh battery into the standard 17T and a rather large 7,000mAh battery into the 17T Pro. Those capacities offer a lot of headroom for heavy use, but they also mean you need a capable charger if you don’t want to leave your phone plugged in for hours.

Navigating fast charging standards can be confusing, especially when companies mix proprietary tech with universal standards. Here is a practical guide to the wattage you actually need for the Xiaomi 17T and 17T Pro, along with a few reliable chargers and power banks that fit the bill.

What Wattage Do You Actually Need?

Before buying any accessories, it helps to know what your specific phone model can handle. Xiaomi split the charging capabilities between the two devices, but they also included broad support for third-party PPS standards, which makes finding compatible chargers much easier.

For the Xiaomi 17T

This model supports 67W wired HyperCharge and up to 50W PPS charging. You really don’t need anything more powerful than a 65W or 70W charger.

Buying a 100W or 140W brick for the standard 17T won’t make it charge faster; the phone will just pull the maximum wattage it was designed for.

For the Xiaomi 17T Pro

The Pro model increases the limit to 100W wired HyperCharge and 50W wireless HyperCharge. More importantly, it supports 100W PPS compatibility for third-party chargers.

In the past, getting the maximum charging speed on many phones meant you had to use the proprietary brick included in the box. Now, you can use standard high-output GaN (Gallium Nitride) chargers and still get those 100W speeds.

Wall Chargers for the Xiaomi 17T

If you have the standard Xiaomi 17T, your ideal charger will sit right around the 65W to 70W mark.

Xiaomi 67W GaN Charger 2C1A

If you prefer to stick with first-party accessories to ensure exact compatibility with Xiaomi’s HyperCharge protocol, the official brick is a safe bet. It features two USB-C ports and one USB-A port. It uses GaN technology to manage heat, and it conveniently comes with a 1.5-meter 6A cable in the box, saving you from having to buy one separately.

Anker Nano 70W

If you want something a bit smaller for travel, the Anker Nano Charger (70W, 3 Ports) is a solid choice. It is significantly smaller than older chargers of this wattage and includes a foldable plug for easy packing.

Ugreen Nexode Pro 65W

Alternatively, the Ugreen Nexode Pro 65W 3-Port GaN Mini is a very compact option that provides enough power to fast-charge your 17T while taking up minimal space on a desk or in a bag.

Wall Chargers for the Xiaomi 17T Pro

For the 17T Pro, you will want a charger that can hit that 100W ceiling to take full advantage of the phone’s capabilities.

Anker Prime Charger 100W

Anker’s Prime lineup is a reliable choice for multi-device charging. This 100W charger is quite small but provides enough power to charge the 17T Pro efficiently. It uses Anker’s ActiveShield 2.0 to monitor temperatures, which helps keep the charger and your phone’s 7,000mAh battery from getting too warm during a fast charge.

Baseus PicoGo AE21

If you like to see exactly how much power your devices are drawing, the Baseus PicoGo AE21 100W includes a built-in digital display. It’s a helpful feature if you want to verify your charging speeds.

Ugeen Nexode Pro 100W

The Ugeen Nexode Pro 100W is another good GaN-powered alternative that delivers a full 100W from its primary USB-C port, making it a straightforward, dependable option.

High-Capacity Power Banks

When you are using a phone with a 7,000mAh battery, a standard 10,000mAh power bank will only give you about one full charge. If you are traveling or away from an outlet for a few days, you might want something larger.

Anker Laptop Power Bank (25K, 165W)

This is a great pairing for the 17T Pro. With a 25,000mAh capacity, it holds enough power to charge the 17T Pro a few times over. It can output up to 100W from a single USB-C port, matching the Pro’s maximum input. It also features built-in retractable cables, which is convenient if you tend to forget your charging cords.

Baseus EnerGeek GP12 145W

If you want a balance of high output and a straightforward design, the Baseus EnerGeek GP12 is a reliable choice. It provides up to 145W of total power across its ports, meaning it can comfortably handle the 100W draw of the 17T Pro while leaving room to charge a smaller accessory at the same time. It includes a clear digital display to monitor your remaining battery percentage and has enough capacity to get you through a weekend trip.

Ugreen Nexode Power Bank 20K 165W

Similar to the Anker model, this Ugreen power bank includes a built-in retractable USB-C cable and a digital screen that shows your remaining battery percentage and port power. It easily outputs the 100W needed for the 17T Pro, and the 20,000mAh capacity falls within the limits for airline carry-on rules.

Lightweight Power Banks

You don’t always need to carry a heavy battery. If you just want a portable pack to get your 17T or 17T Pro through a long day, there are some great compact options that won’t take up much space in your bag.

Baseus PicoGo AC22 Ultra Mini Power Bank

This is a very practical everyday option. It has a 10,000mAh capacity and is noticeably smaller than standard power banks. It features a built-in 45W USB-C cable, which acts as a carrying strap and provides enough power for a solid top-up on your phone. It also includes a digital display so you can easily check how much battery you have left.

Anker Nano Power Bank

If you like the idea of a built-in cable but want something a bit longer, this Anker model includes a 2.3-foot retractable USB-C cord. It offers the same 10,000mAh capacity and 45W output, making it a convenient choice for daily use. It also has a smart screen to monitor your charging status and uses Anker’s temperature control system to keep things cool while charging.

Ugreen Nexode Power Bank 20K 100W

While 20,000mAh batteries are usually on the heavier side, this Ugreen model is designed to be about 20% lighter and more compact than similar power banks, making it surprisingly easy to carry every day. It can output a full 100W, which is perfect if you want to maximize the charging speed on the 17T Pro, and it holds enough power to keep your devices running for a few days without feeling like a brick in your backpack.

If you’re looking for magnetic charging solutions for the 17T Pro, be sure to check out our roundup of the best magnetic power banks (a compatible case is required).

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Xiaomi unveiled its new 17T series globally in May. Like previous T-series phones, the Xiaomi 17T and 17T Pro are meant to bridge the gap between flagship killers and ultra-premium devices.

The Xiaomi 17T comes with a 6.59-inch AMOLED screen, a Dimensity 8500 chip, and a 6,500 mAh battery. The Xiaomi 17T Pro steps things up with a bigger 6.83-inch 144Hz display, the faster Dimensity 9500 chip, a 7,000 mAh battery, and a Leica-tuned camera system with 5x optical zoom. You can read more about the differences between the two models here. Both phones also carry IP68 water resistance, meaning they can survive a dip in water for a short time.

If you just picked one of these phones up, congratulations. But before you start using it every day, there are a few simple things worth buying to protect it, charge it faster, and get more out of it. Here are the first five things you should add to your cart.

A Good Case

This one is the most obvious, but it’s also the most important. The Xiaomi 17T Pro has an aluminum frame and a glass back, while the standard 17T uses a plastic frame with a glass-fiber reinforced back. Both look great, but glass and metal don’t bounce back well from a hard drop onto concrete.

A simple silicone or TPU case adds a soft, shock-absorbing layer around the edges, which is exactly where most drops do their damage. If you want extra protection, look for a case with raised edges around the camera bump and the screen. This stops the lenses and glass from touching the ground directly if the phone lands face down or camera down.

For people who like a slimmer look, a clear hard case is a good middle ground. It shows off the phone’s color while still covering the corners. Either way, a case is cheap insurance against a repair bill that could cost far more than the phone’s actual value in accessories.

A Screen Protector

Even though the 17T series uses Corning Gorilla Glass 7i on the front, glass can still scratch or crack, especially if it lands on sand, grit, or a rough surface. A tempered glass screen protector is the easiest way to add another layer of defense without changing how the phone feels in your hand.

Tempered glass is a good pick because it keeps the same smooth, glossy feel as the original screen and doesn’t reduce touch sensitivity. Look for one described as “case-friendly,” meaning it’s cut to fit properly with a case installed, so there’s no ugly gap or lifting edge around the border.

If you plan to use the phone for gaming, this step matters even more. Both models support fast touch sampling rates for smooth gaming response, and a poorly fitted or bubbly protector can get in the way of that smooth feel.

A Fast Charger

The 17T or 17T Pro ships with an adapter and cable in the box, but if you want a backup for your bag or desk, it’s worth buying a charger that actually matches the speed the phone can refill at.

The Xiaomi 17T supports up to 67W wired charging, while the 17T Pro can handle up to 100W wired and even 50W wireless charging. Since Xiaomi already ships the essentials for wired duties, you should invest in one that offers wireless charging, especially if you have the Pro model. 

We recently tested the Baseus Spacemate RD1 Pro, which combines a wireless charging pad on top with a full row of wired USB-C and USB-A ports underneath. It’s more of a desk setup than a pocket charger, but it means your 17T Pro can charge wirelessly while a laptop, earbuds case, or power bank charges over a cable at the same time, all from one outlet.

A Pair of Wireless Earbuds

Neither the 17T nor the 17T Pro has a headphone jack, which is now the standard across most phones. That means Bluetooth earbuds are basically a requirement rather than an optional extra.

Interestingly, some early buyers of the 17T series received gifts with their purchase, including Redmi Headphones Neo with the base 17T, and a Xiaomi Smart Band 10 fitness tracker bundled with the 17T Pro. If your unit came with either of these, you may already have a starting point. But if you didn’t get a bundle, or you simply want a nicer pair, it’s worth looking for earbuds that support the same audio codecs the phone offers. Xiaomi’s own Redmi Buds 8 Pro is one option worth a look — it offers 55dB ANC and Hi-Res Audio support.

Extra Cloud Storage

This next one isn’t a physical product, but it deserves a spot on this list. Neither the Xiaomi 17T nor the 17T Pro has a slot for a microSD card, so whatever storage size you bought is the storage you’re stuck with. The Pro model does offer a 1TB option in some markets, which gives plenty of breathing room, but it also costs a lot more. Meanwhile, the base models with 256GB can fill up fast if you take lots of photos or record videos.

Instead of hunting for accessories that promise external storage, it’s smarter to set up a cloud backup plan through Google Photos, Xiaomi Cloud, or another service you trust. This keeps your photos and videos safe even if something happens to the phone, and it frees up space without needing to delete anything permanently. Many services offer affordable monthly plans, and setting this up on day one saves you from a stressful scramble later when storage runs low.

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When you think of a watch built for the outdoors, Casio‘s G-Shock is likely the first thing that comes to mind. It has been the practical standard for decades.

But Apple has been steadily carving out its own space in this category, and the Apple Watch Ultra 3 shows just how serious the company is about the rugged wearable market.

Choosing between the two isn’t just about comparing spec sheets; it’s about deciding what kind of tool you actually need on your wrist when you head outside.

Design and Build Quality

The Apple Watch Ultra 3 sticks to its familiar titanium case, which is now available in a black finish alongside the natural titanium. It’s built well, featuring MIL-STD 810H certification, IP6X dust resistance, and 100 meters of water resistance.

It comes with a new LTPO3 OLED display, has thinner borders, and gets bright enough, up to 3,000 nits, to read clearly in harsh, direct sunlight. Apple also pairs this with activity-specific bands, like the reflective Trail Loop or the Scub’H Diving band.

Casio takes a distinctly different approach to durability. G-Shocks rely on thick resin bezels, carbon core guards, and deeply recessed screens to absorb impacts. While the Ultra 3 is tough, it still has a large, exposed glass surface that can scratch or crack if you hit it against a rock at the wrong angle.

The G-Shock is designed so that the screen rarely takes a direct hit. It’s a more forgiving design if your daily routine involves heavy manual labor, climbing, or environments where your wrists take a lot of bumps.

Features and Connectivity

This is where the two watches diverge the most. The Ultra 3 is essentially a standalone communication and health device. Running watchOS 26, it offers 5G connectivity and a new two-way satellite communication feature for when you lose cell service, which is a genuine safety benefit for hikers and backpackers. It’s also a comprehensive health tracker, introducing hypertension notifications, detailed sleep scores, and an AI-assisted Workout Buddy alongside standard features like ECG and blood oxygen monitoring.

G-Shocks, meanwhile, offer a wider spectrum of utility depending on what you buy. The traditional models are straightforward, giving you the time, alarms, timers, and maybe a compass or barometer. However, Casio also makes a range of smarter G-Shocks that bridge the gap.

These hybrid models offer Bluetooth smartphone syncing, step tracking, heart rate monitoring, and GPS. They provide the core data a runner or hiker might want, without the constant ping of notifications or the complexity of managing a full smartwatch operating system.

Battery Life

Battery life is often the deciding factor for outdoor gear. Apple has improved the Ultra 3’s battery management, offering about 42 hours of regular use and up to 72 hours in a low-power mode.

The new fast charging is helpful, 15 minutes on the charger gets you about 12 hours of use, but you still need to remember to pack a proprietary charger and a power bank for weekend camping trips.

G-Shocks are much lower maintenance. Standard battery models last for years, and Casio’s solar-powered options can keep ticking indefinitely as long as they get regular sunlight.

Even the smarter G-Shocks equipped with fitness tracking and heart rate sensors can often go weeks between charges. If you don’t want to worry about your watch dying on a trail, Casio has a clear advantage.

Which One is Right for You?

The Apple Watch Ultra 3 and the Casio G-Shock serve different needs. The Ultra 3 is for people who want deep health insights, reliable connectivity, and modern safety features like satellite messaging and crash detection. It’s a highly capable device, provided you are willing to charge it every couple of days.

The G-Shock, whether you opt for a basic model or one with smart fitness tracking, is for those who prioritize reliability and simplicity. It’s a watch you can put on, take into the mud, and largely forget about until you need to check the time or your heart rate.

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Running out of storage always seems to happen at the worst possible time. It could be while recording a 4K video, downloading a new game or backing up important files before a trip. That’s when a reliable USB-C flash drive/pendrive or portable SSD can save the day.

But if you’re already overwhelmed by the sheer number of options available and can’t figure out which one is right for you, we’ve done the hard work. Here’s our roundup of the best USB-C flash drives and portable SSDs you can buy in 2026.

USB-C flash drives vs portable SSDs: Which one should you buy?

Before adding one to your cart, it’s worth knowing the difference between a USB-C flash drive and a portable SSD because they both cater to different kinds of users.

A USB-C flash drive is like a mini notebook or diary in your pocket. It’s compact, affordable, and perfect for everyday tasks like transferring photos, sharing presentations, backing up documents or expanding your phone’s storage. Most of them are small enough to live on your keychain, so they’re always within reach.

Portable SSDs, on the other hand, are more like carrying an entire filing cabinet that somehow fits in the palm of your hand. Still small, of course, but not as compact as flash drives.

They’re significantly faster, offer much larger capacities, and are built for handling demanding workloads, such as editing 4K videos, transferring hundreds of gigabytes of data or storing massive game libraries. They do cost more, as well, but if speed and capacity matter to you, they are the best option.

5 Best USB-C Flash Drives

Kingston DataTraveler Exodia

If all you need is a reliable drive for carrying everyday files, the 64GB variant of the Kingston DataTraveler Exodia is an easy recommendation. It’s affordable and gets the work done. The drive comes with a lightweight design, a protective cap, and a large loop that makes it easy to attach it to a keychain. This is great for basic tasks, like carrying office presentations, movies, and family photos.

It supports USB 3.2 Gen 1 interface, which means you get quicker file transfers than older USB 2.0 drives. On paper, it’s said to offer up to 400MB/s read speeds. Kingston also backs it with a five-year warranty, making it a dependable option for long-term use.

SanDisk Ultra Dual Drive Luxe

The SanDisk Ultra Dual Drive Luxe is one of the best sellers on Amazon, as it’s incredibly versatile. One side features a USB Type-C connector, while the other has a traditional USB Type-A port. So, if you’re transferring files from your smartphone to your laptop or moving photos to an older desktop, this drive saves you from hunting for adapters.

The drive’s all-metal construction feels quite premium, while the swivel design protects both connectors without needing a separate cap.

Performance is solid too. Thanks to USB 3.2 Gen 1 support, transferring photos, videos and documents is quick. It supports up to 400MB/s faster read speeds, and doesn’t cost a bomb for the 128GB and 256GB variants.

Samsung Type-C USB Flash Drive

Samsung’s Type-C flash drive is another reliable option, and it’s also fast offering up to 400MB/s read speeds. It has a clean metal design that’s small enough to stay plugged into a laptop without sticking out too much.

Samsung also backs it with protection against water, shocks, magnets, X-rays, and extreme temperatures, making it a dependable choice if you regularly carry important files. The 128GB is the cheapest, but you also get a 256GB variant, if you plan to store extra files.

Kingston Dual Portable Drive

The Kingston Dual Portable blurs the line between a traditional USB flash drive and a portable SSD. At first glance, it seems like an ordinary USB-C thumb drive, but beneath its compact shell lies SSD-level performance.

Thanks to its USB 3.2 Gen 2 interface, it delivers read speeds of up to 1,000MB/s and write speeds of up to 900MB/s, making it the fastest flash drive in the segment.

That faster speed means you can copy a 4K video project, a massive game or movie library, or hundreds of RAW photos in far less time than you’d expect from a typical flash drive. Pair that with the 1TB variant, and you’ve essentially got an entire workstation that fits in your pocket.

Buffalo USB-C SSD Drive

The Buffalo SSD looks like an ordinary flash drive, but don’t let its size fool you. Yes, it’s a tiny SSD drive but with support for a USB-C adapter that ships within the box. It supports USB 3.2 Gen 2 performance with read speeds of up to 600MB/s and write speeds of up to 500MB/s. That’s significantly faster than a typical flash drive and close to what you’d expect from an entry-level SATA SSD.

Unlike most portable SSDs, there’s no separate enclosure or cable to carry around. Just plug it into your laptop, tablet or smartphone and you’re ready to transfer large files in seconds.

The only real compromise with the Buffalo flash drive is its plastic casing, which doesn’t feel as premium or rugged as the metal enclosures found on some competing drives.

5 Best Portable SSDs 

SanDisk Portable SSD (SDSSDE30-1T00-G26)

The SanDisk Portable SSD is the sweet spot for most users, striking the right balance of speed, portability, and price. It weighs just 40 grams, and is about the size of a stack of credit cards, which makes it easy to slip into your pocket or backpack.

It supports USB 3.2 Gen 2 platform, with read speeds of up to 800MB/s, so moving large photos, videos and documents will be quicker than a traditional hard drive. It’s also shock resistant with 2-metre drop protection, meaning it can shrug off the occasional knock while travelling.

Crucial X10 Portable SSD 

Need something faster and tougher? The Crucial X10 is a performance SSD with read speeds of up to 2,100MB/s, which means even huge 4K video projects, RAW photo libraries, and game files can be transferred in minutes.

It also carries an IP65 rating for dust and water resistance along with 3-metre drop protection, which means it’s ready for everything from your desk to an outdoor shoot. The 1TB variant is a great place to start, but if your storage needs grow over time, it’s also available in capacities of up to 8TB.

WD My Passport SSD

The WD My Passport SSD is designed for users who don’t want to compromise on speed or security. Its sleek metal body houses a USB 3.2 Gen 2 interface with read speeds of up to 1,050MB/s and write speeds of 1,000MB/s, so everything from project folders to full system backups can be moved in a matter of minutes.

Just like some other SSDs on this list, the My Passport also has 256-bit AES hardware encryption and password protection. These ensure your confidential files are always safe. It also features a durable, shock-resistant design, and is backed by a 5-year limited warranty.

SanDisk Extreme Portable SSD

The SanDisk Extreme Portable SSD puts security front and centre. It comes with 256-bit AES hardware encryption, which means your sensitive files stay protected with password security.

The hardware encryption aside, it’s also quite fast, reaching read speeds of up to 1,050MB/s and write speeds of 1,000MB/s. Its IP65-rated body keeps dust and splashes at bay, while the rugged design is built to handle drops. You also get an integrated carabiner loop, which makes it easy to clip onto a backpack or camera bag so it’s always within easy reach.

Samsung T7 Shield

The Samsung T7 Shield is one of the most reliable portable SSDs you can buy on the market. It’s wrapped in a rugged rubber shell, has an IP65 rating and 3-metre drop protection, which means it can handle dust, splashes and the occasional tumble without breaking a sweat.

It reaches read speeds of up to 1,050MB/s and write speeds of 1,000MB/s, keeping large file transfers quick and consistent. You also get AES 256-bit hardware encryption, adding an extra layer of security for sensitive files. Additionally, Samsung offers a 5-year limited warranty, giving you extra peace of mind for the long haul.

Which is the best budget USB-C flash drive?

The SanDisk Ultra Dual Drive Luxe is the best budget USB-C flash drive, thanks to its dual USB-C and USB-A connectors, premium metal build, and read speeds of up to 400MB/s.

Which is the best premium USB-C flash drive?

The Kingston Dual Portable Drive is the best premium USB-C flash drive, delivering near-SSD performance with read speeds of up to 1,000MB/s and write speeds of 900MB/s.

Which is the best budget portable SSD?

The SanDisk SDSSDE30-1T00-G26 is the best budget portable SSD, as it offers 800MB/s read speeds, a compact design, and 2-metre drop protection at a competitive price.

Which is the best premium portable SSD?

The Samsung T7 Shield is the best premium portable SSD on this list, pairing 1,050MB/s speeds with IP65 durability, AES 256-bit hardware encryption, and a 5-year warranty.

What’s the fastest portable SSD?

The Crucial X10 is the fastest portable SSD on this list, with read speeds of up to 2,000MB/s.

Is SSD better than HDD?

Yes. An SSD is faster, more durable and more power-efficient than an HDD, making it the better choice for most users. HDDs are still worth considering if you need large amounts of storage at the lowest possible cost.

Is a 2TB SSD overkill?

No, 2TB isn’t overkill, especially today, when 4K videos, RAW photo libraries and modern games can quickly eat up storage space. For most users, though, 1TB still strikes the best balance between capacity and price.

So, what’s your pick: a USB-C flash drive or an SSD? Let us know in the comments below.

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Vivo X300 Pro is an absolute beast. Launched in 2025, this premium smartphone features a high-quality AMOLED display, a powerful Dimensity 9500 processor, and a high-end triple camera setup. The device also packs a large battery with fast charging support and a buttery smooth software experience. However, the competition isn’t sitting still.

There are some excellent alternatives from its rivals that might offer more value at a similar price. Some of them offer higher performance, while some bring better cameras. So, here are the 5 compelling alternatives that might just steal your attention.

5 excellent alternatives to Vivo X300 Pro

1. Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra

The Galaxy S26 Ultra is Samsung’s most powerful and one of the best Android phones in the market. While it’s a little costlier than the Vivo X300 Pro, the pricing gap narrows with bank discounts and other offers clubbed together.

The Galaxy S26 Ultra comes with a larger 6.9-inch LTPO screen and the newly introduced Privacy Display feature, which allows users to keep their screen content visible only to them while obscuring it from others. The device is protected by Gorilla Glass Victus 2 on both sides.

The Samsung phone is powered by the Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 processor, which delivers better gaming performance and stability than the Dimensity 9500 on the Vivo X300 Pro. Furthermore, it also provides two additional major OS updates.

Around the back, the S26 Ultra has a superior quad-camera setup, led by a 200MP primary sensor. Other sensors include a 10MP telephoto lens with 3x optical zoom, a 50MP telephoto lens with 5x optical zoom, and a 50MP ultrawide unit. It has a 12MP front-facing camera.

The 5,000mAh battery and 60W wired/25W wireless charging support are weak links here compared to the Vivo X300 Pro, but the Samsung phone easily lasts a day, and a full charge takes about an hour.

Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra specs:

2. Google Pixel 10 Pro

If software experience, cameras, and AI features matter to you more than anything else, the Pixel 10 Pro delivers big. It offers the absolute best Android experience without the bloatware common among Chinese brands. Further, the Pixel 10 Pro promises two additional major OS upgrades and gets additional features via Pixel feature drops.

The Pixel smartphone features a high-end triple camera setup on the back, which includes a 50MP primary camera, a 48MP periscope telephoto lens with 5x optical zoom, and a 48MP ultrawide unit. The 42MP selfie camera also takes excellent shots.

While the Tensor G5 doesn’t deliver flagship-grade gaming performance, it’s more optimized towards on-device AI features and personal intelligence. The Pixel 10 Pro offers a range of AI features to automatically pull contextual details when you need them, enhance zoom shots, translate voice calls in real-time, and more features that are helpful in everyday life.

The Pixel 10 Pro features a 6.3-inch LTPO OLED screen, UWB support, and a 4870mAh battery with support for 30W wired and 15W wireless charging.

Google Pixel 10 Pro specs:

3. Xiaomi 17 Ultra

Xiaomi 17 Ultra (review) is another ultra-premium smartphone with a giant circular camera setup and excellent hardware. Compared to the Vivo X300 Pro, it has a slightly larger AMOLED screen and a more powerful Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 chipset.

The triple rear camera setup includes a 50MP primary camera, a 200MP periscope telephoto lens with 4.3x continuous optical zoom, and a 50MP ultrawide camera. And, it has a 50MP selfie camera. The Xiaomi 17 Ultra packs a 6000mAh battery with support for 90W wired and 50W wireless charging. It also supports reverse wired and reverse wireless charging to power up your accessories.

Xiaomi 17 Ultra specs:

4. Oppo Find X9 Pro

The Find X9 Pro’s spec sheet closely matches the Vivo X300 Pro’s. Both have 6.78-inch LTPO AMOLED screens, Dimensity 9500 chips, and promise five major Android OS updates. The camera specs are also largely similar (50MP primary + 200MP periscope telephoto + 50MP ultrawide), except for a slightly lower optical zoom on the Find X9 Pro. The selfie camera has a 50MP resolution on both phones.

The Oppo Find X9 Pro (review) packs a larger 7500mAh battery and supports 80W wired charging, 50W wireless charging, and 10W reverse wireless charging.

Oppo Find X9 Pro specs:

5. OnePlus 15

The OnePlus 15 is much more affordable than the Vivo X300 Pro, but still outperforms the Vivo phone in several aspects. It’s got a more powerful Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 processor, and a bigger 7300mAh battery with faster 120W wired and 50W wireless charging.

While the OnePlus 15 features the same 6.78-inch LTPO AMOLED screen, it excels by offering a higher 165Hz refresh rate. Coming to the cameras, the rear setup includes a 50MP primary camera, a 50MP periscope telephoto lens with 3.5x optical zoom, and a 50MP ultrawide shooter. There’s a 32MP front-facing camera for selfies and video calls.

OnePlus 15 specs:

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Your smartphone is probably the camera you use the most, but it may not always be the best device to shoot with while travelling. A sudden downpour or a bike ride through rough trails, and your smartphone camera could show its limitation. That’s where action cameras and pocket gimbals step in.

Action cameras are made for adventure and ruggedness, while pocket gimbals are great for travel vlogging. If you’re looking to upgrade your content creation setup or just want better videos on your next trip, here are the best action cameras and pocket gimbals you can check out in 2026.

Action camera or pocket gimbal: Which one should you buy?

Before you pick one, think about how you plan to use it. If your videos involve hiking, biking, water sports, or any activity where your camera could take a beating, an action camera is the way to go.

Action cameras are compact, rugged, waterproof, and built to keep recording in places where your phone would rather stay in your pocket.

Pocket gimbals, on the other hand, are a better fit for travel vloggers, content creators, and anyone who enjoys filming people or places. Their built-in mechanical stabilisation delivers smoother footage than most smartphones. Some pocket gimbals even offer advanced subject tracking, which means they are best for solo vlogging.

8 best action cameras & pocket gimbals to buy

DJI Osmo Action 5 Pro

If you want one camera that can do just about everything well, then it’s hard to beat the new DJI Osmo Action 5 Pro.

It supports 4K recording at up to 120fps for smooth slow-motion videos and gets a bright dual OLED touchscreen that’s easy to use outdoors. It also offers a reliable stabilisation and long battery life.

Additionally, it gets a magnetic quick-release system that makes swapping mounts effortless, while its low-light performance is among the best in its class. So, whether you’re recording a motorcycle ride, a trekking expedition, or your next holiday trip, the Osmo Action 5 Pro is a great pick.

GoPro Mission 1 Pro

If money isn’t a concern and you simply want the best image quality from an action camera, the GoPro Mission 1 Pro is probably the right a safe pick. It’s the company’s most premium action camera yet and features a 1-inch sensor, which captures more light than traditional action cameras.

It also supports 8K video recording at 60FPS, which none of the action cameras on this list offer. You also get advanced stabilisation and GoPro’s rugged and waterproof design.

DJI Osmo Pocket 4

If you don’t plan to capture fast-paced action and mainly shoot vlogs or travel videos, the DJI Osmo Pocket 4 is worth considering. It features a three-axis mechanical gimbal that keeps videos smooth and stable, even while you’re walking.

It also gets a larger sensor that performs better in low light, along with a rotating touchscreen that lets you switch between landscape and portrait recording in seconds.

You also get subject tracking, so the camera follows you automatically and keeps you in the frame, making it a great option for solo creators.

Insta360 Luna Ultra

The Luna Ultra is the latest pocket gimbal from Insta360 and sits at the top of the company’s lineup. It features a Micro Four Thirds sensor, which is much larger than what you’ll find on most action cameras and pocket gimbals. The larger sensor captures more light, resulting in better low-light performance and more detailed videos.

The Luna Ultra also supports AI tracking and interchangeable lenses, which means you get more flexibility while shooting. Despite all that, it’s still compact enough to carry in your pocket. It’s a great fit for travel creators and anyone who prefers image quality over extreme durability.

Insta360 X5

The Insta360 X5 is different from a regular action camera because it records everything around you with its dual lenses.That said, you can choose your framing later during editing. Preety cool, right?

Additionally, it also removes the selfie stick from your videos, creating a floating camera effect that makes your footage look cinematic. That’s one of the reasons it’s so popular among bikers, cyclists, and travel creators.

The action camera also supports up to 8K video recording and can record continuously for up to three hours, making it reliable for long rides and road trips.

GoPro HERO13 Black

GoPro continues to be the name most people associate with action cameras, and the HERO13 Black shows why. To start off, it supports a crisp 5.3K video recording, and also gets support for HB-Series lenses. What this means is that you can swap between ultra-wide, macro, or anamorphic lenses depending on what you’re shooting.

Since it’s an action camera, it’s also waterproof at up to 10 metres without a case. That said, if you already own GoPro batteries or accessories, upgrading to the latest HERO makes sense.

Insta360 Ace Pro 2

If your priority is video quality above everything else, the Insta360 Ace Pro 2 is a great pocket gimbal. It’s co-engineered with Leica, which means you get vibrant colours, impressive dynamic range, and detailed footage straight out of the camera.

It also gets a flip-up screen and a large 1/1.3” sensor that makes even nighttime videos look great.

AKASO EK7000

If you’re buying your first action camera or don’t want to spend too much, the AKASO EK7000 is a solid option to start with. It records videos in 4K, comes with a waterproof case, supports Wi-Fi, and includes plenty of mounts in the box, so you don’t have to buy extra accessories later. 

While it doesn’t match DJI or GoPro in terms of video quality or stabilisation, it’s more than enough for capturing your holiday trips. Not to mention, it’s one of the best sellers on Amazon.

Are action cameras better than smartphones?

Action cameras are better for movement-heavy shooting like sports and travel because they offer stronger stabilisation and tougher builds. Smartphones still win for daily use and convenience, but they can’t match the stability and durability of action cameras.

What’s the best budget action camera? 

AKASO EK7000 is the best budget action camera you can get, as it supports 4K video recording, a reliable stabilisation, and a rugged body. It is not very advanced in terms of features, but gets the job done for first-time users.

What’s the best overall action camera? 

DJI Osmo Action 5 Pro is the best overall action camera offering a great price to value ratio. It offers a mix of great stabilisation, crisp and smooth 4K 120fps video, and magnetic quick-release system.

What’s the best overall pocket gimbal?

Insta360 Ace Pro 2 is the best overall pocket gimbal. It features a larger sensor for improved dynamic range, 3-axis mechanical stabilisation, and AI-assisted subject tracking for smooth and stable footage.

What’s the best premium action camera? 

GoPro Mission 1 Pro is the best premium action camera you can buy on the market, as it gets a large 1-inch sensor with high-bitrate video recording, advanced HDR processing, and support for up to 8K 60FPS capture.

What’s the best premium pocket gimbal? 

The Insta360 Luna Ultra is the best premium pocket gimbal. It features a large sensor with multi-axis mechanical stabilisation, enhanced low-light capture, and cinematic motion smoothing for professional-grade videos.

Which action camera has the best video quality? 

GoPro Mission 1 Pro currently has the best video quality, with high bitrate, superior dynamic range, better colour accuracy, and advanced stabilisation.

So, what’s your pick for your next adventure: an action camera or a pocket gimbal? Let us know in the comments below.

The post Best action cameras & pocket gimbals in 2026 appeared first on Gizmochina.

Ever had a close call on the highway or worried about someone falsely blaming you after an accident? That’s exactly why you may want to install a dash cam in your car. And in 2026, dash cams have become more of a necessity than an accessory. With so many options available across different price points, choosing the right one can be confusing. To help you out, we’ve curated a list of the best dash cams you can buy in India across budgets.

How to choose the right dash cam

The right dash for you depends on how and where you drive. If you mostly commute within the city, a basic front-facing dash cam with 2K video recording is enough.

However, if you frequently drive on highways or take long road trips, it’s worth investing in a dual-channel or triple channel dash cam with good sensors and 4K video recording. Sony’s STARVIS 2 sensor works great even in low-light, making it the ideal choice for most. 

You can also look out for added features like GPS tracking, Wi-Fi and app support, and external SSD compatibility if you don’t plan to delete any recordings.

Best dash cams across segments

70mai M310 (Best under Rs 5,000)

If you’re buying your very first dash cam, the 70mai M310 is an easy recommendation. It gets the basics right, with a wide-angle lens supporting 2K video recording. This ensures you get clear footage of lane changes and traffic.

It gets built-in Wi-Fi and has a dedicated 70mai app, making it easy to download clips, change settings, and review incidents on your phone. It also includes features like loop recording and parking surveillance support when hardwired.

If you simply want reliable video recording without spending much, the 70mai M310 is the best value-for-money option in the segment.

If you want a deeper look at how 70mai’s triple-channel recording performs in real driving, read our 70mai 4K T800 review.

Qubo Dash Cam Pro 2.7K (Best under Rs 10,000)

Qubo’s latest dash cam brings 2.7K video recording and dual-channel support for Rs 8,990. Unlike the 70mai M310, this one gets a built-in display for viewing the footage even before it reaches your phone. It also has GPS for location tracking and G-sensor-based emergency locking.

Since it’s a dual-channel dash cam, it captures both the front and rear of your car simultaneously. Other features include Wi-Fi connectivity, a built-in microphone, and support for storage expansion up to 1TB.

If you want a feature-rich setup with front and rear coverage, this is one of the strongest picks in the segment.

WOLFBOX M40 4K (Best under Rs 15,000)

If you don’t like traditional dash cams sitting on your windshield, this one doubles as a smart rear-view mirror. It pairs a large 10-inch display with 4K front recording and 1080p rear capture, giving you a wider digital view.

The mirror-style screen is useful at night, in rain, or when the rear window is blocked by passengers or luggage.
You also get features like loop recording, parking monitoring, GPS tagging, and Night View.

70mai A810 (Best under Rs 20,000)

The 70mai A810 takes image quality to the next level with Sony’s STARVIS 2 sensor and support for 4K front recording. It also offers excellent low-light performance, making it easier to capture number plates and road details even at night.

The dash cam supports dual-channel recording and supports HDR for better contrast in bright and dark scenes. You get GPS logging, Wi-Fi app control, loop recording, G-sensor protection, and parking surveillance support.

70mai’s lineup moves fast — the recently launched 70mai A810S with GPS and 4G remote access is worth a look if you want parking surveillance without a companion app.

REDTIGER F17 Elite (Best under Rs 30,000)

Stepping in the Rs 30,000 segment, the REDTIGER F17 Elite offers premium features, including 4K front recording, STARVIS imaging, advanced parking surveillance, and fast Wi-Fi connectivity.

It is designed to capture both front and rear incidents, which is useful for highway driving and city traffic. The dash cam also includes GPS tracking, loop recording, G-sensor emergency locking, and app-based file transfer for quick access to footage.

VIOFO A229 Ultra and VIOFO 329S (Best in the Rs 40,000 – 50,000 segment)

If you want one of the most advanced dash cams available, the VIOFO A229 Ultra 3CH is a great pick at around Rs 40,000.

It comes with a 3-channel setup, recording the front, rear, and cabin area. The cabin camera supports 210-degree field of view, giving you complete coverage inside and outside the car.

All three cameras use the STARVIS 2 sensor for improved low-light performance. The front and rear cameras are powered by Sony IMX678 sensors and support 4K video recording, while the cabin camera uses the Sony IMX662 sensor and records in FHD.

If you’re willing to stretch your budget further, the VIOFO A329S SSD version is worth considering. It offers almost the same video recording features, but adds external SSD support of up to 4TB, letting you store more footage without having to delete older recordings. It also comes with Wi-Fi 6 for faster file transfers between the dash cam and your smartphone.

Mistakes to avoid when buying a dash cam

Buying the camera, forgetting the memory card.

Most dash cams don’t ship with an SD card, and this is where people trip up. A regular card from your old phone will die within months, dash cams overwrite footage constantly, and only High Endurance cards (like the SanDisk High Endurance or Samsung PRO Endurance) are built for that kind of abuse.

Budget another ₹1,000–1,500 for a proper 128GB card for speeds good enough for dashcam operations, or your camera will start corrupting files exactly when you need them.

Ignoring the Indian summer.

A dashboard behind glass can cross 70°C in May. Cheaper cams with lithium batteries swell up and die in a year, look for models with a supercapacitor instead of a battery if your car parks in the open. Most of our picks above use one, it’s worth checking before you buy anything else.

Expecting parking mode to work out of the box.

Parking surveillance needs a hardwire kit (around ₹1,000–2,000 extra) that connects to your fuse box, so the camera stays powered with the ignition off. It’s a 30-minute job for any car accessories shop but if nobody tells you, you’ll wonder why your “24-hour parking mode” never records anything.

Mounting it in the wrong spot.

Place the camera behind the rear-view mirror, not in the middle of the windscreen — it should record the road, not block your view. Tuck the cable along the headliner and down the A-pillar; every installer does this by default, but it takes two minutes to ask.

Get these four right, and even a budget pick from this list will serve you better than an expensive one set up carelessly.

What’s the best budget dash cam in India?

The 70mai M310 is one of the best budget dash cams, as it offers 2K recording, smart controls, and loop recording. It also gets parking surveillance support when hardwired. 

What’s the best overall dash cam in India?

The 70mai A810 under Rs 20,000 is the best overall dash cam you can buy. It gets the STARVIS 2 sensors, 4K recording, and G-sensor protection. It offers one of the best value-for-money packages in the segment. 

What’s the best premium dash cam in India?

If budget isn’t a concern, the VIOFO A329S 3CH is one the best premium dash cams available in India. It gets a 3-channel setup, STARVIS 2 sensors with 4K recording support for all cameras, and up to 4TB of external SSD support.

If you’d rather go with a global brand, Garmin’s Dash Cam X series launched in India starting at ₹12,550,, we’ve covered the full pricing and specs.

So, which one of these dash cams is your pick? Let us know in the comments below.

The post Best dash cams in India (July 2026): Top Picks for every Budget appeared first on Gizmochina.

The Android tablet market has steadily improved over the last few years, moving past simple media consumption devices into tools that can genuinely help you get work done. Back in March, Xiaomi released the Pad 8, which quickly became a reliable option for people looking for a capable, mid-range productivity device. Now, Motorola has introduced the Moto Pad 70 Pro, aiming at a very similar audience.

Both tablets run on the same Snapdragon 8s Gen 4 processor and share similar base specifications, but they take noticeably different approaches to design, software, and overall value. If you are trying to decide between the two, here is a practical look at how they compare.

Design and Display

The most obvious difference between these two tablets is their physical size. The Moto Pad 70 Pro is a large device. It features a 13-inch, 3.5K LTPS IPS display. Because of its size and its 589g weight, it is best suited for use on a desk, paired with a keyboard, or propped up on a stand. It isn’t the kind of tablet you will comfortably hold in one hand while reading on the couch. The screen itself is sharp and fluid, thanks to a 144Hz refresh rate, and the quad-speaker system tuned by JBL provides clear audio for video calls and media.

The Xiaomi Pad 8 is noticeably more portable. It has an 11.2-inch 3.2K LCD screen and weighs 485g. This makes it much easier to carry in a small bag or hold for longer periods. Xiaomi opted for a 3:2 aspect ratio, which is generally better for reading documents and browsing the web because it shows more vertical content.

Additionally, Xiaomi offers a specific Nano Texture Display variant. This version uses an anti-glare coating that reduces screen reflections by 70%. If you frequently work outdoors or in brightly lit offices, this matte-like finish is a very practical feature that Motorola doesn’t currently offer.

Software and Daily Performance

Since both tablets use the Snapdragon 8s Gen 4 chip and come with 8GB or 12GB of RAM, you won’t notice much difference in raw performance. Both handle multitasking, web browsing, and standard office applications smoothly. The real difference is in how the software is organized.

Motorola’s approach with the Moto Pad 70 Pro leans heavily into connectivity and AI tools. The tablet includes a Productivity Interface that offers a desktop-like layout when you need to manage multiple windows. It also features Smart Connect, which is genuinely useful if you want to share files or sync your clipboard between the tablet, a Motorola phone, and a PC. The built-in AI tools, like Smarter Reader, are designed to help summarize long documents or translate text on the fly.

Xiaomi’s HyperOS 3 takes a slightly different route, focusing heavily on traditional office work. The software includes a PC-level web browser that supports mouse-hover previews and right-click menus, making it feel closer to a laptop experience. Xiaomi has also integrated WPS Office directly into the operating system, which is very convenient if your daily work involves formatting spreadsheets, creating slide decks, or editing PDFs.

Accessories and Value

When you are buying a tablet for productivity, you usually need accessories, and this is where the purchasing decisions diverge.

Motorola includes the Moto Pen Pro in the box with the tablet. For anyone who takes handwritten notes, signs documents, or sketches, having the stylus included is a significant cost saving. If you want the keyboard, Motorola sells it for ₹5,999, and they offer a bundle discount if you buy it with the 256GB model.

Xiaomi, on the other hand, sells all of its accessories separately. The Xiaomi Focus Pen Pro costs ₹5,999. If you want a keyboard, the standard version is ₹4,999, and the more advanced Focus Keyboard is ₹8,999. This means outfitting the Xiaomi Pad 8 for full productivity will add a noticeable amount to your final checkout price.

Battery Life and Build

The Moto Pad 70 Pro fits a large 10,200mAh battery into its chassis, supporting up to 45W fast charging. It also comes with an IP52 rating, meaning it can handle light dust and minor splashes of water.

The Xiaomi Pad 8 has a slightly smaller 9,200mAh battery with 45W charging. Xiaomi estimates this will provide about 9.3 hours of video playback. Both tablets will easily get you through a standard workday of mixed usage, though Motorola’s larger battery gives it a slight advantage if you are traveling and away from an outlet for longer stretches.

Pricing and Final Thoughts

Pricing for the Xiaomi Pad 8 has shifted recently. Due to component shortages, Xiaomi increased the prices across the board. The base 8GB/128GB model now costs ₹35,999, and the 12GB/256GB version is ₹38,999. The Nano Texture model sits at ₹40,999.

The Moto Pad 70 Pro is launching at ₹36,999 for the 8GB/128GB model, but early buyers can get it for ₹32,999 with bank offers.

Choosing between them comes down to how you plan to use the device. If you prioritize portability, prefer a screen ratio tailored for reading, or specifically need an anti-glare display, the Xiaomi Pad 8 remains a very capable choice.

However, if you want a larger screen that closely mimics a laptop, the Moto Pad 70 Pro is hard to ignore. The fact that Motorola includes the stylus in the box, combined with the larger battery and splash resistance, makes it a highly practical and cost-effective option for getting work done on Android.

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The post Moto Pad 70 Pro vs Xiaomi Pad 8: Which Tablet is Right for You? appeared first on Gizmochina.

Most smartphone reviews are written within a week or two of a phone’s launch, when everything still feels fresh. But that’s rarely how people use their phones. A smartphone is something you rely on every day for work, entertainment, photography, gaming, and staying connected. That’s why I decided to revisit the iQOO 15R after using it as my primary device for the past few months.

Since its debut in February, the smartphone market has become even more competitive, with several new contenders entering the premium mid-range segment. Yet, the iQOO 15R continues to promise flagship-level performance, a massive 7,600mAh battery, and a compact design at a price that undercuts many rivals. After living with the Dark Knight variant for months, here’s what has impressed me the most, what hasn’t aged quite as well, and whether it’s still worth buying today.

A Design That Has Aged Gracefully

One of the things I appreciated from day one was the phone’s size, and that hasn’t changed. At a time when many performance-focused smartphones feel unnecessarily large and bulky, the iQOO 15R strikes a nice balance. It’s compact enough to use comfortably with one hand while still offering a large display for gaming and media consumption.

The Dark Knight color deserves special mention. Unlike glossy finishes that quickly become fingerprint magnets, the matte fibreglass back has remained clean throughout my usage. Even after months of carrying it in my pocket and placing it on different surfaces, it still looks almost as good as new. The finish also provides enough grip that I rarely felt the need to use the bundled case.

The metal frame continues to feel reassuringly premium, while the buttons remain tactile with no signs of becoming loose over time. Despite packing a massive 7,600mAh battery, the phone never feels excessively heavy, and the weight distribution is excellent. The IP68 and IP69 ratings also provide peace of mind during unexpected rain or accidental splashes.

A Display That’s Still Among the Best

The 6.59-inch AMOLED display with superslim bezels all around remains one of my favorite aspects of the iQOO 15R. Its still a joy to look at whether I’m catching up on YouTube videos, scrolling through social media, editing photos, or playing games.

The panel is sharp, colors are vibrant without appearing overly saturated, and outdoor visibility has never been an issue. Even under harsh sunlight, I rarely found myself struggling to read messages or navigate using Google Maps.

The 144Hz refresh rate continues to make everyday interactions feel incredibly fluid. More importantly, the experience hasn’t changed after months of software updates. Animations remain smooth, touch response is excellent, and the ultrasonic fingerprint scanner continues to unlock the phone almost instantly. It’s one of those features that spoils you to the point where switching back to an optical fingerprint sensor feels like a downgrade.

Performance That Refuses to Slow Down

If there’s one reason to buy the iQOO 15R even today, it’s performance.

Many Android phones start showing small signs of ageing after a few months. Apps take slightly longer to open, animations occasionally stutter, and multitasking becomes less reliable. Thankfully, that hasn’t been my experience with the iQOO 15R.

Whether it’s juggling dozens of Chrome tabs, editing images, switching between social media apps, or handling a busy workday filled with emails and messaging apps, the phone continues to feel as responsive as it did on day one.

Gaming remains one of its strongest suits. BGMI, Call of Duty: Mobile, and other demanding titles run effortlessly with consistently smooth frame rates. Even during longer gaming sessions, the phone manages heat well thanks to its cooling system. It certainly gets warm, but never to the point where it becomes uncomfortable to hold or starts throttling noticeably.

Another pleasant surprise has been the haptics. It’s not something you consciously think about every day, but every vibration, keyboard press, and notification feels tight and precise, adding to the overall premium experience.

Perhaps the biggest compliment I can give the iQOO 15R is this: after four months, I’ve never felt that the phone was slowing me down. It simply gets out of the way and lets me focus on what I’m doing.

Battery Life Continues to Impress

If performance is the iQOO 15R’s biggest strength, battery life is a close second. Despite packing a massive 7,600mAh battery, the phone measures just 7.9mm thick and weighs around 205 grams, making it surprisingly comfortable to use every day.

On most days, I comfortably finish with plenty of charge remaining despite heavy use involving messaging, photography, social media, YouTube, navigation, and gaming.

On lighter days, stretching the phone into a second day is still entirely possible. That consistency is what makes the battery so impressive. I never find myself worrying about charging before leaving home or carrying a power bank during the day.

The included 100W charger also deserves praise. Even with such a large battery, charging never feels like a lengthy affair. Whenever I do need to top up, the phone is ready to go again surprisingly quickly.

OriginOS Has Matured Nicely

Software has probably seen the biggest improvement since launch.

OriginOS feels polished, animations remain fluid, and the overall experience is considerably cleaner than older versions of Vivo and iQOO’s software. Day-to-day navigation feels fast, app switching is seamless, and the high refresh rate complements the software beautifully.

There are still a few pre-installed apps that I’d rather not see, but thankfully, most of them can be removed within minutes.

Some AI features are genuinely useful, particularly photo editing tools like AI Erase and Image Expansion. Others feel more like nice-to-have additions that I rarely use after the initial curiosity wears off.

The biggest positive is that software updates haven’t negatively affected performance or battery life. If anything, the phone feels even more refined today than it did when I first started using it. Another good thing is that it is promised to receive four major Android OS upgrades and six years of security updates. My review unit has also received the June security update.

Cameras That Remain Reliable

The iQOO 15R was never marketed as a camera-first smartphone, and that remains true today. However, that doesn’t mean its cameras disappoint.

The 50-megapixel primary camera continues to deliver detailed, vibrant photos with reliable HDR performance. During daylight, images have plenty of detail, colours look pleasing without being overly processed, and autofocus remains quick and dependable.

Portrait shots are generally impressive, with natural background separation in most situations. The lack of a dedicated telephoto camera is noticeable when zooming beyond 2x, but that’s a compromise I expected when choosing a performance-focused phone.

The 8-megapixel ultra-wide camera remains the weakest part of the camera setup. It’s perfectly usable for occasional landscape shots, but there’s a noticeable drop in detail compared to the primary sensor.

Low-light photography is respectable, but it isn’t class-leading. Night mode helps recover additional details, though it takes a couple of seconds to process each shot. Meanwhile, some of its photography-focused rivals have started pulling ahead in this area. I also noticed that portrait shots captured in low light suffer from weaker background separation and less accurate edge detection.

The 32-megapixel front camera performs well enough for video calls and selfies, while the ability to shoot 4K 60fps videos from both the front and rear cameras remains a nice bonus for content creators.

Overall, my opinion on the cameras hasn’t changed much over the past four months. They’re dependable for everyday photography, but they aren’t the primary reason to buy the iQOO 15R.

So, Should You Still Buy the iQOO 15R?

After using it for a longer duration, my answer is still yes.

The iQOO 15R remains one of the easiest smartphones to recommend if your priorities are performance, battery life, and gaming. It continues to deliver flagship-level speed, an excellent display, dependable battery life, and a premium in-hand feel without venturing into ultra-premium pricing.

That said, it isn’t perfect. Photography enthusiasts will find better camera-focused alternatives in this price range, particularly if zoom performance or low-light photography is important. Likewise, those who prefer a cleaner software experience may still gravitate towards the OnePlus 15R.

However, if you’re looking for a phone that simply refuses to slow down, lasts comfortably through demanding days, and remains enjoyable to use long after the initial excitement has faded, the iQOO 15R continues to justify its asking price.

Four months of daily use haven’t changed my opinion about the phone. If anything, they’ve reinforced it. The iQOO 15R wasn’t just impressive at launch. It’s a smartphone that continues to deliver where it matters most, making it one of the strongest all-round performance phones you can buy in its segment today.

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The post iQOO 15R Long-Term Review: Four Months Later, Is It Still Worth Buying? appeared first on Gizmochina.

It is a familiar situation for anyone in the market for a new smartphone: do you buy the current model available today, or do you wait a few months for the next version?

Right now, in mid-2026, Google has left buyers with an interesting choice. The Pixel 10 series is currently available and offers a very capable experience. It introduced Qi2 magnetic charging, which Google calls Pixelsnap, brought a telephoto lens to the base model, and upgraded to the 3nm Tensor G5 chip. However, recent leaks have already detailed Google’s plans for the Pixel 11 lineup, which is expected to launch this August.

If you are using an older device like a Pixel 7 or a phone with a degraded battery, you might be wondering what to do. Let’s look at the practical differences between the Pixel 10 you can buy today and the rumored Pixel 11 coming later this summer.

Processor and Modem

If there is one distinct reason to hold off on buying a Pixel 10, it is the internal hardware.

The Pixel 10’s Tensor G5 is a capable processor built on a 3nm process, and it handles Google’s on-device AI features, like Camera Coach and Auto Best Take, quite well. But the Pixel 11 is expected to introduce a more significant update.

According to recent leaks, the Pixel 11’s Tensor G6 will be built on TSMC’s newer N2 (2nm) node. In processor manufacturing, smaller nodes generally translate to better power efficiency and improved heat management. If you often use your phone for demanding tasks like recording long 4K videos or gaming, the 2nm Tensor G6 could offer a more consistent, cooler experience.

Additionally, the modem is seeing a change. Pixel phones have occasionally faced criticism for connectivity and battery drain issues linked to their Samsung-based modems. The Pixel 11 is reportedly moving away from this setup in favor of the MediaTek M90 modem. Having a more efficient modem usually means more reliable cellular reception and better battery retention when you are off Wi-Fi. For people who travel frequently or rely heavily on mobile data, this hardware change alone might be worth the wait.

Design Tweaks

Google often experiments with unique hardware features, and the upcoming generation seems to continue that trend. On the Pixel 10 Pro and Pro XL, Google included the infrared temperature sensor in the camera bar. It is a functional tool for checking the temperature of objects, but it isn’t something most people use every day.

The Pixel 11 Pro series is reportedly dropping the thermometer. In its place, Google is expected to introduce a small RGB LED array called Pixel Glow in the camera bar.

It sounds similar to the notification lights we used to see on older smartphones, or a scaled-down version of the Glyph interface on Nothing’s phones. While it is more of a visual addition than a strict utility, it could be useful for custom notification alerts or as a soft fill light for photography.

Displays and Cameras

If you are expecting a major redesign or a completely new display technology, the Pixel 11 might look very familiar. The Pixel 10 already offers high-quality screens.

The Pixel 10 Pro XL features a 6.8-inch QHD+ display that reaches 3,300 nits of peak brightness. The Pixel 11 Pro XL is rumored to increase that to 3,600 nits. In daily use, especially indoors, you are unlikely to notice a difference. Both generations use 120Hz LTPO OLED panels that are easy to read in direct sunlight.

For the cameras, the Pixel 11 series is slated to receive a new 50MP main sensor and updated telephoto lenses. However, the Pixel 10 already has a highly capable camera system, including a 48MP 5x telephoto lens that supports high-resolution zoom. Much of Google’s photo quality comes from its software processing rather than just the hardware. While the Pixel 11 will feature a new TPU that might process images a bit faster or enable new AI editing tools, the actual difference in photo quality between the 10 and 11 will likely be minimal for standard point-and-shoot photography.

Battery Life and Charging

With the Pixel 10, Google integrated Pixelsnap, a Qi2-compatible magnetic charging system that allows you to easily attach wireless chargers and accessories. This feature is expected to remain on the Pixel 11.

Battery capacities between the two generations are also very similar. The Pixel 10 Pro XL has a 5,200mAh battery, while the Pixel 11 Pro XL is rumored to have a rated capacity of 5,000mAh, which will likely be marketed around the same 5,100 to 5,200mAh mark.

Any real-world improvements in battery life won’t come from larger batteries, but rather from the improved efficiency of the Tensor G6 chip and the new MediaTek modem.

Verdict

Deciding whether to buy now or wait comes down to your current needs.

Consider buying the Pixel 10 now if: Your current phone is broken or frustrating to use, and you need a reliable device today. The Pixel 10 is a refined smartphone with a great camera, magnetic Qi2 charging, and seven years of promised software support. It is a solid purchase that will last a long time.

Consider waiting for the Pixel 11 if: Your current phone can last a few more months, and you prioritize battery efficiency and cellular performance. The move to a 2nm processor and a MediaTek modem addresses some of the most common hardware complaints from previous Pixel generations. If you want the most efficient hardware Google has to offer, checking out the Pixel 11 in August is the practical move.

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While there won’t be as many new smartphones as we are used to seeing next month due to rising memory costs and the ongoing chip crisis, there are still a few exciting launches lined up for July 2026. Oppo will unveil its Reno 16 mid-range lineup, while Nothing is preparing to launch its Phone (4b) with cut-down specifications.

Samsung could release the next-gen foldable phones next month, while Motorola is reportedly looking to bring its Razr 70 foldable phones into the Indian market in the same month.

5 Best upcoming smartphone launches: July 2026 edition

1. Oppo Reno 16 series

Launch date: July 2, 2026 (confirmed)

Oppo is expected to unveil two phones in the Reno 16 series at the upcoming event: the Reno 16 and the Reno 16c. The former will be a compact, premium mid-range phone, while the latter will sit below it with a slightly larger form factor.

Oppo Reno 16

The Reno 16 is confirmed to have a 6.32-inch Full HD+ AMOLED screen with a 120Hz refresh rate and a peak brightness of 1800nits. It will also have a new AI Snap Key for quickly saving content to MindSpace, similar to OnePlus’s AI Plus Key.

The smartphone will offer a versatile camera setup, featuring a 50MP primary camera, a 50MP ultrawide camera, and a 50MP telephoto lens with 3.5x optical zoom. All three sensors can capture 4K video at 60 fps. The selfie camera also has a 50MP resolution.

The Reno 16 is said to be powered by the Snapdragon 7 Gen 4 chipset. It will reportedly have a 6700mAh battery with 80W fast charging support. Plus, it carries IP66, IP68, IP69, and IP69K ratings, ensuring great protection against water and dust.

Oppo Reno 16c

The Reno 16c is expected to be an affordable sibling, featuring a 6.57-inch AMOLED screen with a 120Hz refresh rate and 1400nits of peak brightness. It could be powered by the MediaTek Dimensity 7300-Energy processor.

The smartphone is said to have a 7,000mAh battery with support for 80W wired charging. Like the Reno 16, the 16c also features the AI Snap Key, an aerospace-grade aluminum frame, and IP66/IP68/IP69/IP69K ratings.

2. Nothing Phone (4b)

Launch date: July 7, 2026 (confirmed)

Nothing Phone (4b) marks the debut of the company’s new “B” series. With this new product line, Nothing aims to bring its core user experience to a wider audience. The Phone (4b) will feature a compact Glyph Bar with five LED panels on the rear side.

The phone reportedly features a 6.7-inch AMOLED screen with a 120Hz refresh rate. Official teasers confirm that it will feature dual rear cameras, including a 50MP primary camera and an 8MP ultrawide lens. It’s said to have a 32MP selfie camera.

Leaked benchmark listings have revealed that the Nothing Phone (4b) will be powered by the Snapdragon 6 Gen 4 chipset, paired with 8GB RAM and up to 256GB storage. The phone is said to house a 5,400mAh battery with 50W fast charging support.

3. Galaxy Z Fold 8 series

Launch date: July 22, 2026 (expected)

New Galaxy foldables are expected to drop next month, but this time, Samsung may also introduce an “Ultra” model of its next-gen book-style foldable. So, we’re expecting three new foldables: Galaxy Z Fold 8, Galaxy Z Fold 8 Ultra, and Galaxy Z Flip 8.

Galaxy Z Fold 8

The Galaxy Z Fold 8 may not look familiar to previous generations, as Samsung is reportedly shifting to a wider 4:3 passport-style form factor for this device. This decision is rumored to have been influenced by Apple’s decision to make its first foldable with the same form factor.

The Fold 8 is leaked to offer a 7.6-inch AMOLED screen, and the cover screen could measure 5.4 inches. It could be powered by the Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5, paired with up to 16GB LPDDR5X RAM and up to 1TB storage.

According to recent leaks, the Galaxy Z Fold 8 will have a dual rear camera setup, including a 50MP primary camera and a 50MP ultrawide unit. No 200MP camera this time. It may feature two 10MP selfie cameras, one on the cover screen and another on the foldable inner screen. The Fold 8 is expected to pack a 4800mAh battery with support for 45W wired and 15W wireless charging.

Galaxy Z Fold 8 Ultra

While the standard Fold 8 will have a wider form factor, the Fold 8 Ultra retains the previous-generation form factor, paired with more powerful hardware. According to leaks, the Ultra phone will have an 8-inch folding screen, a 6.5-inch cover display, and the Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 for Galaxy at the helm.

The phone is said to feature a triple rear camera setup, including a 200MP main camera, a 50MP ultrawide unit, and a 10MP telephoto camera with 3x optical zoom. It will have a vapor chamber for cooling, and a 5000mAh battery with support for 45W wired charging.

4. Galaxy Z Flip 8

Launch date: July 22, 2026 (expected)

The Galaxy Z Flip 8 will launch alongside the new book-style foldable phones at the upcoming Galaxy Unpacked event. Leaks say the phone will have a 6.9-inch AMOLED main screen with reduced crease visibility, a 4.1-inch cover screen, and a 4,300mAh battery with support for 25W fast wired charging. It may also offer 15W wireless charging.

Samsung is expected to follow a dual-chip strategy for the Galaxy Z Flip 8: Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 for Galaxy for the US, Canada, China, and Japan, and the Exynos 2600 for India and other markets. It will reportedly feature a dual camera setup on the back, including a 50MP primary camera and a 12MP ultrawide unit. It may have a 10MP selfie camera.

5. Motorola Razr 70 series

Launch: July 2026 (expected)

Motorola is reportedly bringing the premium Razr 70 series phones to the Indian market in July 2026. The rollout will likely include the standard Razr 70 and the premium Razr 70 Ultra.

Motorola Razr 70

The Razr 70 foldable phone has a 6.9-inch AMOLED screen with a 120Hz refresh rate, Dolby Vision, and 3000nits of peak brightness. The 3.6-inch cover screen features HDR10+ and a 90Hz refresh rate. The device is powered by the MediaTek Dimensity 7450X chipset and offers a 4800mAh battery with 30W wired and 15W wireless charging support.

The smartphone has a dual camera setup, featuring a 50MP primary camera and a 50MP ultrawide unit. It also has a 32MP selfie snapper, but you can use the rear cameras for better quality shots.

Motorola Razr 70 Ultra

The Razr 70 Ultra upgrades to a much more powerful Snapdragon 8 Elite chipset, paired with up to 16GB of RAM and up to 512GB of storage. It has a 7.0-inch main screen with a 165Hz refresh rate and 5000nits of peak brightness, and a 4-inch cover screen.

The rear camera setup includes a 50MP primary camera and a 50MP ultrawide shooter, the same as the Razr 70. However, the selfie camera resolution jumps to 50MP. The phone has a 5000mAh battery capacity and supports 68W wired and 30W wireless charging. It also supports 5W reverse-wired charging to power your accessories.

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For years, compact smartphones have come with compromises. If you wanted a phone that was genuinely comfortable to use with one hand, you usually had to settle for a smaller battery, fewer cameras, slower charging, or hardware that wasn’t quite flagship-grade. Meanwhile, phones with the best specifications kept getting larger, making one-handed use increasingly difficult.

The Vivo X300 FE takes a different approach. Instead of asking users to choose between portability and performance, it combines flagship hardware with a compact form factor. It packs Qualcomm’s Snapdragon 8 Gen 5 chipset, a 6,500mAh battery, ZEISS-backed cameras, wireless charging, and a premium build into a body that’s noticeably smaller than most flagship smartphones.

There’s one catch, though. The Vivo X300 FE starts at Rs. 79,999 (~$850), while the regular Vivo X300 is available for Rs. 75,999 (~$800). That naturally raises the question: why would anyone pay more for the FE model?

After spending time with the phone, the answer becomes clearer. The X300 FE isn’t positioned as a cheaper alternative to the X300. Instead, it’s designed for users who value comfort, battery life, and everyday usability just as much as camera hardware. Whether that strategy works is what this review aims to find out.

Compact Without Feeling Compromised

The biggest compliment I can give the Vivo X300 FE is that it never feels like a smaller version of something better. It simply feels like a flagship that happens to be compact.

Its 6.31-inch size makes an immediate difference in daily use. Whether replying to messages, browsing social media, or taking photos, the phone feels comfortable to operate with one hand. It slips easily into a pocket, never feels top-heavy, and remains comfortable to hold during extended reading or video sessions.

The Vivo X300 FE’s matte finish looks understated yet premium while doing an excellent job of hiding fingerprints. Even after several days of use, the phone continued to look clean without requiring constant wiping. It also comes in three shades, such as Noir Black, Lilac Purple, and an India-exclusive green shade called Urban Olive.

Despite the smooth finish, the phone never felt slippery in my hand. Vivo has struck a nice balance between comfort and grip, making it easy to use without immediately reaching for the bundled case.

The redesigned horizontal camera bar is another welcome change. Unlike large circular camera modules that often cause phones to wobble on a table, the X300 FE remains stable while typing or browsing on a flat surface.

Build quality is exactly what you’d expect at this price. The aluminium frame feels solid, the buttons are tactile, and the phone comes with IP68 and IP69 ratings for dust and water resistance. Vivo has also added SCHOTT Xensation Core protection for the display and SGS Five-Star Drop Resistance certification, offering extra reassurance against everyday accidents.

While many flagship phones try to stand out with flashy designs, the X300 FE wins you over with thoughtful ergonomics. It’s simply a phone that’s enjoyable to hold, something that’s becoming increasingly rare.

Excellent Display, Better Than Its Size Suggests

Compact displays often raise concerns about media consumption, but the X300 FE quickly puts those fears to rest.

Its 6.31-inch LTPO AMOLED display features a sharp 1.5K resolution and an adaptive refresh rate ranging from 1Hz to 120Hz. Combined with slim bezels, the screen feels larger than its dimensions suggest, making everything from reading articles to watching Netflix surprisingly immersive.

The display produces vibrant colors, deep blacks, and excellent contrast without appearing overly saturated. Users who prefer a more natural look can switch to the Professional colour profile, while the default Vivid mode makes HDR content pop.

Outdoor visibility is equally impressive. Even under bright afternoon sunlight, the display remained easy to read, whether I was navigating with Google Maps or framing photos.

The stereo speakers complement the display nicely with clear vocals, respectable bass, and enough volume for watching videos without headphones. While larger flagship phones still have an edge, the X300 FE performs better than expected for its size.

Flagship Performance That Simply Gets Out of Your Way

Powering the Vivo X300 FE is Qualcomm’s Snapdragon 8 Gen 5 processor, paired with LPDDR5X Ultra RAM and UFS 4.1 storage.

In everyday use, performance is exactly what you’d expect from a flagship. Apps launch instantly, multitasking remains effortless, and switching between multiple applications never caused slowdowns. Throughout my testing, the phone stayed consistently responsive whether I was editing photos, browsing dozens of Chrome tabs, or juggling social media apps.

Gaming performance is equally impressive. Titles like BGMI, Call of Duty: Mobile, and Genshin Impact run smoothly at high graphics settings, while Vivo’s cooling system keeps temperatures well under control during longer gaming sessions.

What stood out most wasn’t benchmark performance but consistency. I never encountered random stutters, lag, or frame drops during daily use. Here’s how it performs on benchmarking apps.

A Battery That Redefines Compact Flagships

Battery life has traditionally been one of the biggest compromises on compact smartphones, but the Vivo X300 FE completely changes that perception.

Its 6,500mAh silicon-carbon battery is remarkably large for a phone this size, and it translates into excellent real-world endurance. Throughout my testing, the phone comfortably lasted an entire day regardless of whether I was taking photos, streaming videos, browsing social media, navigating with Google Maps, or responding to emails. Even after a busy day, there was usually plenty of battery left before bedtime.

Users with moderate usage can realistically stretch it into a second day, while heavier users should still have no trouble making it through a full day without worrying about carrying a charger.

The bundled 90W FlashCharge adapter tops up the battery quickly, making even a short charging session worthwhile before heading out. Vivo has also added 40W wireless charging, a feature that’s still missing on several compact flagship phones.

Simply put, the battery is one of the X300 FE’s biggest highlights. It’s difficult to think of another compact flagship that combines this level of endurance with such a manageable form factor.

OriginOS 6 Feels More Mature Than Ever

The Vivo X300 FE ships with OriginOS 6 based on Android 16, and it delivers one of Vivo’s most polished software experiences yet. The company promises five years of Android OS updates and seven years of security updates, making the X300 FE a far better long-term investment.

The interface feels fast and fluid throughout, backed by smooth animations and responsive touch interactions. More importantly, the software stays out of the way. Apps launch quickly, multitasking is seamless, and I didn’t encounter any bugs or stability issues during my time with the device.

Like every modern flagship, the X300 FE includes plenty of AI-powered features, but Vivo has focused on tools that are genuinely useful. AI Retouch includes features like AI Erase, AI Reflection Erase, AI Image Expander, and AI Magic Move, all of which make quick photo edits surprisingly easy without relying on third-party apps.

Origin Island is another thoughtful addition, displaying timers, navigation updates, music playback, and other background activities in a clean, glanceable interface.

There’s also the Vivo Office Kit for seamless file sharing with Windows PCs and Macs, alongside Gemini integration, AI Search, AI Creation, and DocMaster for productivity tasks.

Cameras Continue to Be a Major Strength

Vivo has built a strong reputation for smartphone photography, and the X300 FE continues that trend.

The rear camera setup consists of a 50-megapixel Sony IMX921 primary sensor with OIS, a 50-megapixel Sony IMX882 3x telephoto camera, and an 8-megapixel ultrawide camera. On the front, there’s a 50-megapixel autofocus selfie camera. Combined with ZEISS optics and image processing, the overall experience is among the strongest you’ll find in a compact flagship.

The primary camera consistently captures detailed images with balanced colors and an impressive dynamic range. HDR processing is handled intelligently, preserving highlights without making scenes look unnatural. Autofocus is quick, shutter response is fast, and photos rarely appear over-processed, making the camera dependable across almost every lighting condition.

Portrait photography remains one of Vivo’s biggest strengths. The ZEISS partnership isn’t just marketing; it genuinely improves the experience. Five portrait focal lengths provide plenty of creative flexibility, while edge detection is consistently accurate and skin tones remain natural. The various ZEISS bokeh styles also make portraits look more refined than those captured on many competing phones.

The dedicated 3x telephoto camera adds another layer of versatility. Whether shooting portraits or distant subjects, it delivers sharp, detailed images with excellent colour consistency. Even after sunset, the telephoto camera performs better than many competing flagship phones, making it genuinely useful rather than simply ticking a specification box.

Low-light photography is equally impressive. The primary sensor captures bright, detailed photos while preserving much of the scene’s natural ambience instead of artificially turning night into day. Noise remains well controlled, and exposure is generally balanced across different lighting conditions.

Video recording is another highlight. The phone supports up to 8K recording along with 4K at up to 120fps, although 4K at 60fps will likely be the sweet spot for most users. Footage looks detailed, stabilisation is reliable, and exposure transitions remain smooth while moving between different lighting conditions.

The 50-megapixel autofocus selfie camera also delivers consistently sharp images with natural skin tones. Autofocus makes group selfies easier by keeping faces sharp even when the phone is held farther away.

The only noticeable weakness is the ultrawide camera. While it performs reasonably well during the day, the 8MP sensor simply doesn’t match the quality of the other cameras. Images lose detail more quickly, dynamic range isn’t as impressive, and low-light performance falls behind. Considering the premium price, this is the one area where the camera system feels compromised

Is the ZEISS Telephoto Extender Worth It?

One feature that sets the Vivo X300 FE apart from most rivals is support for Vivo’s optional ZEISS Telephoto Extender Gen 2.

The accessory extends the optical reach to an equivalent focal length of around 200mm, allowing you to capture distant subjects with noticeably better detail than digital zoom alone. During my time with it, the extender worked exactly as advertised and produced impressive results.

That said, it isn’t something every buyer needs.

If you regularly photograph wildlife, birds, concerts, sporting events, or distant architecture, the extender can be a worthwhile investment. For everyone else, the built-in 3x telephoto camera is already excellent for everyday photography. At Rs. 15,999, it’s best viewed as an enthusiast accessory rather than an essential purchase.

Verdict: A Compact Flagship That Stands on Its Own

The Vivo X300 FE is a phone that makes more sense the longer you use it.

Yes, its pricing initially feels confusing. At Rs. 79,999, it’s actually more expensive than the regular Vivo X300, which offers a stronger overall camera system. If camera performance is your only priority, the X300 remains the more sensible purchase.

However, that’s also missing the point of the X300 FE.

This isn’t designed to be a cheaper flagship. Instead, Vivo has built a premium smartphone for people who value comfort as much as specifications. It combines flagship performance, exceptional battery life, dependable ZEISS cameras, wireless charging, premium build quality, and long software support in a form factor that’s genuinely comfortable to use every day.

It’s not without flaws. The 8MP ultrawide camera feels underwhelming at this price, and the optional ZEISS Telephoto Extender is aimed at a niche audience rather than everyday users.

Even so, the overall package is difficult to fault. There simply aren’t many compact Android flagships that offer this combination of portability, battery life, performance, and camera quality.

If you’ve been waiting for a flagship that fits comfortably in one hand without sacrificing the features that matter most, the Vivo X300 FE stands in a category of its own. It may not have the absolute best camera hardware in Vivo’s lineup, but as an everyday flagship that’s a pleasure to carry and use, it succeeds remarkably well.

Overall verdict

The Vivo X300 FE proves that compact smartphones no longer have to feel like compromises. It delivers flagship performance, outstanding battery life, a refined software experience, and cameras that are among the best in its class, all in a size that’s genuinely practical. While the pricing and ultrawide camera leave room for debate, neither is enough to overshadow what Vivo has achieved. For anyone looking for a premium Android flagship that prioritises everyday usability over sheer size, the X300 FE is arguably the most complete option currently available.

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If you are looking for a powerful gaming laptop within a budget of $1800, you are likely to run into a situation to choose either Asus’ ROG or Lenovo’s Legion. Both brands offer top-of-the-line gaming PCs with premium builds, superior thermals, and an understated design that can also blend into an office setting.

However, there are areas where the two brands differ, and we will discuss them here, along with a one-on-one comparison of the Asus ROG Strix G16 (2025) and Lenovo Legion Pro 5i Gen 10 (2025). 

Who Are These Brands?

Asus ROG (Republic of Gamers) has been making dedicated gaming hardware for years. The ROG lineup is split into sub-series — Strix for raw power, Zephyrus for slim portability, and Flow for tablet-style flexibility — to cater to buyers of their exact needs. 

Lenovo Legion has built a strong reputation since 2016 for delivering reliable gaming laptops at competitive prices. The Legion line spans from budget-friendly picks to high-end powerhouses, with a cooling system called Coldfront that uses vapor chambers and optimized airflow to keep temperatures in check during long sessions.

The Contenders Under $1,800

Asus ROG Strix G16 (2026)

The Strix G16 is the most accessible 2026 ROG laptop you can buy under $1,800. For 2026, Asus fitted it with Intel’s Core Ultra 9 290HX Plus processor and NVIDIA GeForce RTX 5060 or RTX 5070 GPU options. The RTX 5060 configuration starts at around $1,599, putting it squarely in budget.

The screen is a 16-inch 2.5K (2560×1600) display at a fast 300Hz refresh rate, up from 240Hz on the 2025 model. That is one of the fastest screens you will find at this price. Asus calls it a Nebula Display, and it supports 100% DCI-P3 color coverage, meaning games and videos look punchy and accurate. The ACR (Ambient Contrast Ratio) anti-reflective coating significantly reduces glare, which is useful in bright rooms.

Cooling is where the Strix G16 really stands out. Asus designed a multi-layer vapor chamber that goes all the way to the rear of the chassis and is sandwiched between upper and lower heatsinks. Combined with Tri-Fan Technology and Conductonaut Extreme liquid metal applied to both the CPU and GPU, it runs quieter than you would expect for a machine this powerful. On the practical side, the 2026 Strix G16 also introduces a tool-less upgrade design: you can swap out RAM and SSD without a screwdriver, and a Q-latch system makes storage swaps even faster.

One thing to keep in mind: the base RTX 5060 model uses a 1080p IPS panel (not OLED) at some retailers, while Asus’s own store configurations offer the higher-resolution 2.5K Nebula Display. Check the exact model number before buying.

Starting price: Around $1,599 (RTX 5060, 16GB RAM, 1TB SSD)

Lenovo Legion 5i Gen 11 / Legion 5a Gen 11 (2026)

Lenovo’s new 2026 budget gaming heroes are the Legion 5i Gen 11 (Intel-powered) and the Legion 5a Gen 11 (AMD-powered). Both were announced at CES 2026 and started shipping in April 2026.

The Legion 5i Gen 11 is built on Intel’s new Panther Lake silicon and starts at $1,549. The Legion 5a Gen 11 with AMD Ryzen AI 400 series starts at $1,499, and a lower-tier Ryzen 200 variant begins at just $1,299. All configurations come with NVIDIA RTX 50-series GPUs capped at the RTX 5060.

The display across the 5-series is a 15.3-inch PureSight OLED, running at 2560×1600 resolution with a 165Hz refresh rate, 500 nits of brightness, and VESA DisplayHDR True Black 600 certification. OLED panels produce true blacks and much more vivid color than standard IPS or even most other panels — this is a clear advantage over the Strix G16’s base IPS option.

Lenovo’s Coldfront cooling system uses vapor chambers and optimized airflow, and the higher-end 5-series models also apply liquid metal thermal compound. The build is all-metal across the board — no plastic lids or creaky hinges. Software-wise, Lenovo’s AI Engine+ automatically manages CPU and GPU power in real time depending on what you are doing, and every laptop ships with Lenovo’s Legion Space app, which handles everything from RGB lighting to AI-powered game coaching tools that analyze your reaction time and in-game accuracy.

Starting price: Around $1,299–$1,549 (RTX 5060, 16GB RAM, 512GB–1TB SSD)

Head-to-Head Comparison

Performance

Both laptops run NVIDIA RTX 5060 GPUs with DLSS 4 support. At the same GPU tier, performance is very close. The Lenovo Legion 5i Gen 11’s newer Panther Lake Intel chip gives it a slight edge in CPU-heavy workloads like video editing and streaming. For pure gaming frame rates, results are nearly identical between the two at this GPU tier.

Display

This is the biggest difference between the two. Lenovo’s OLED PureSight panel delivers deeper blacks, faster pixel response times, and more vibrant color than the IPS panel found on the base Strix G16 configurations. However, if you opt for Asus’s own-store version of the Strix G16, you get a 2.5K 300Hz Nebula Display that is significantly sharper and faster than Lenovo’s 165Hz OLED. So the winner here depends on what you value more: OLED richness (Lenovo) or higher refresh rate and sharper resolution (Asus).

Cooling

Both laptops use vapor chambers and are well-cooled for sustained gaming. Asus applies Conductonaut Extreme liquid metal to both chips, not just the CPU — this is a slight edge for the ROG Strix G16 in long, heavy gaming sessions where temperatures matter most.

Portability

Lenovo has a meaningful edge here. The Legion 5-series is a 15.3-inch machine, making it more compact than the 16-inch Strix G16. Lenovo also engineered a lighter, thinner chassis for the 2026 models, which Lenovo says is about 10% lighter than the previous generation. If you carry your laptop often, the Legion 5 wins.

Upgradeability

Both laptops are easier to upgrade than the average gaming machine. The ROG Strix G16 introduced a tool-less RAM and SSD access design in 2026, rivaling the Legion’s existing upgrade-friendly design. Neither laptop soldered its RAM to the board, so you can add memory later as your needs grow.

Value

Lenovo offers a lower entry price and an OLED display right out of the box. Asus offers a faster screen at higher configs. For buyers on a tight budget, the Legion 5a Gen 11 at $1,299 is hard to beat. For buyers who want the fastest display and best thermal performance, the ROG Strix G16 at $1,599 earns its price.

Which One Should You Buy?

Go with the Lenovo Legion 5a Gen 11 if you want the most value for money, prefer an OLED display, or carry your laptop frequently. The $1,299 entry price is exceptional for what you get, and the OLED screen makes everyday use genuinely enjoyable.

Go with the Asus ROG Strix G16 (2026) if you want the fastest screen (300Hz), the best cooling at this price range, or a larger 16-inch display for gaming. It costs a bit more, but Asus’s upgrade-friendly tool-less design and superior thermal engineering make it a machine that can grow with you.

Both are excellent choices for 2026 gaming. Either way, you are getting a laptop built for the next several years of AAA titles.

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Magnetic power banks have become one of the easiest ways to keep a phone alive during a long day. They snap to the back of a compatible phone, align the charging coil, and remove the need to carry a cable for every quick top-up.

For iPhone 17 users, these batteries are especially convenient because Apple’s phones support magnetic wireless charging. Galaxy S26 users may need a magnetic Qi2 or MagSafe-compatible case to get the same snap-on experience, but USB-C charging still makes these packs useful even without magnetic alignment.

The best model depends on what you value most. Some power banks focus on thinness. Others offer more capacity, faster USB-C charging, or a built-in kickstand. Here are the strongest options you can buy in June 2026.

Anker Nano Power Bank

The Anker Nano Power Bank (5K, MagGo, Slim) is the most practical small magnetic battery in this group. It has a 5,000mAh capacity, 15W Qi2-compatible wireless charging, and 20W USB-C input and output. It measures 0.34 inches thick and weighs 4.3 ounces, so it should fit easily in a pocket or small bag.

This model works best as an everyday emergency battery. It is not meant to replace a large 20,000mAh travel charger, but it can give an iPhone 17 a useful boost during a commute, night out, or workday. Anker says it can charge an iPhone 16 Pro to 25% in 42 minutes. Actual results will depend on heat, phone settings, and case thickness.

The Nano also puts a strong focus on temperature control. Anker uses graphene cooling, dual NTC temperature sensors, and smart charging adjustments to keep the surface below 104°F. That matters because magnetic wireless power banks can become warm while attached to a phone.

Price: $54.99

Anker MagGo Power Bank

The Anker MagGo Power Bank (10K, Slim) is the better Anker choice for travel or heavy phone use. It has a 10,000mAh capacity, 15W wireless charging, and up to 30W USB-C output. It measures 0.58 inches thick and weighs 7.05 ounces.

The larger battery makes a real difference. Anker says this pack can provide up to 1.8 charges for an iPhone 15 Pro. That makes it a better fit for people who use GPS, camera, hotspot, video, and messaging throughout the day.

This is not the lightest option, but it is still slim for a 10,000mAh magnetic pack. It is the safer buy if you often finish the day with a low battery.

Price: $79.86

Xiaomi UltraThin Magnetic Power Bank

The Xiaomi UltraThin Magnetic Power Bank 5000 15W is the thinnest and lightest model on this list. It measures only 6mm thick and weighs 98g. Xiaomi uses a silicon-carbon battery and an aluminium alloy shell to keep the body slim and rigid.

The battery has a 5,000mAh typical capacity and supports up to 15W wireless charging. However, Xiaomi says that iPhone devices support up to 7.5W magnetic wireless charging with this model.

The USB-C port helps offset that limitation. Xiaomi lists up to 22.5W wired output, which should be faster than its iPhone wireless performance. The power bank also supports two-device charging, although total output drops when both wired and wireless charging are active.

This is the best choice if weight and thickness matter more than peak wireless speed. It is also a good option for users who want a premium metal design rather than a thicker plastic battery.

Price: €59.99

Belkin BoostCharge Magnetic Power Bank

The Belkin BoostCharge Slim Magnetic Power Bank 5K with Qi2 is a practical option with a built-in kickstand. It has a 5,000mAh battery, 15W Qi2 wireless charging, and 20W USB-C charging. It measures 4 x 2.8 x 0.5 inches.

The kickstand gives Belkin a clear advantage for video calls, streaming, and StandBy-style desk use. The power bank can hold a phone in portrait or landscape orientation, so it works as both a charger and a small stand. Belkin also includes a 2-foot USB-C cable in the box.

The BoostCharge model supports pass-through charging and can charge two devices at once through wireless charging and USB-C.

Price: $54.99

Baseus PicoGo AM52

The Baseus PicoGo AM52 Qi2.2 Magnetic Power Bank with Cable 10000mAh 45W is the most versatile option here. It has a 10,000mAh capacity, 25W Qi2.2 wireless charging, and a built-in 45W USB-C cable. It also supports 30W recharging.

It is available in two variants: one with a built-in USB-C cable, eliminating the need to carry a separate charging cable, and another standard version without the integrated cable.

This model is also the strongest choice for Galaxy S26 users. Magnetic wireless charging can be convenient, but a 45W USB-C cable gives Samsung users a faster and more reliable charging path. iPhone 17 users can also benefit from the cable when they want better speed than wireless charging can provide.

Normally priced at around $69.99, it is currently available for just $39.29 during the Amazon Prime sale, making it an excellent deal.

Price: $39.29

Baseus PicoGo AM31

The Baseus PicoGo AM31 Mini Magnetic Power Bank 5000mAh 20W is the smaller Baseus option. It has a 5,000mAh capacity, 20W bidirectional USB-C charging, magnetic alignment, NTC temperature control, and a compact body.

This model targets everyday carry rather than travel-heavy use. It should provide a useful top-up for an iPhone 17 or Galaxy S26. The 20W USB-C port is also useful when wireless charging feels too slow.

Price: $49.99

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DJI has always been a reliable — and largely the only one — option in the world of small handheld cameras. Its Osmo Pocket series became the go-to choice for vloggers, travellers, and content creators who wanted smooth, high-quality video in a tiny package. 

But this year, it’s not alone, no more. Insta360, a brand famous for its 360-degree cameras, has stepped into DJI’s backyard with the Luna Ultra, and DJI has fired back with the Osmo Pocket 4P. The result is an exciting battle in compact cameras we’ve seen in years.

Both the DJI Osmo Pocket 4P and the Insta360 Luna Ultra are pocket-sized gimbal cameras. That means they have a built-in stabiliser to keep your videos smooth even while you walk, run, or move around. Both cameras also come with two lenses: a wide-angle lens for landscape and general shots, and a zoom lens for getting closer to your subject. Coincidentally, this dual-lens design is a first for both brands in this category, and it’s one reason why everyone is talking about them.

DJI Osmo Pocket 4P

The Pocket 4P is DJI’s most advanced pocket camera yet. It carries a 1-inch main sensor with a 20mm wide-angle lens at f/2.0, paired with a second 60mm zoom lens at f/1.8, which DJI says is a “golden portrait” focal length, because it makes faces look natural and gives that blurry background effect people love.

The gimbal has an incredible 17 stops of dynamic range, up from 14 stops on the standard Pocket 4. This means the camera can capture both bright skies and dark shadows in the same shot without losing detail. It can record 10-bit D-Log2 colour.

On the performance side, the Pocket 4P can shoot 4K video at up to 240 frames per second for super-smooth slow motion. It has 103GB of built-in storage, and the battery is rated at 210 minutes; it can charge to 80% in just 18 minutes. The camera also gets ActiveTrack 8.0, DJI’s latest subject-tracking technology, which keeps your subject in frame even when you’re using the zoom lens.

The Pocket 4P weighs 230 grams and connects via Wi-Fi 6 and USB 3.1 for fast file transfers. It starts at around 3,799 yuan in China — roughly $525 USD — though global pricing is expected to land between $649 and $699.

There is one big catch, though. Because DJI has been placed on the US government’s FCC Covered List since late 2025, the Pocket 4P cannot be sold officially in the United States. 

Insta360 Luna Ultra

Insta360 announced the Luna Ultra in June, and it went on sale almost immediately. Unlike the Pocket 4P, it’s available globally — including in the US — at $769.99. That makes it a perfect option for American creators who can’t get their hands on DJI’s latest.

The Luna Ultra was co-engineered with Leica, the legendary German camera maker. It has a 1-inch main sensor with a Leica Summicron 20mm f/1.8 lens, and an 8K video recording mode, which the Pocket 4P does not offer. The second lens is a 60mm f/2.0 telephoto on a 1/1.3-inch sensor, offering 3x optical zoom that extends up to 6x in-sensor and 12x digital zoom. Both cameras, interestingly, land on very similar optical setups.

Where the Luna Ultra really stands out is its design. It has an industry-first detachable 2-inch OLED touchscreen that can be pulled off the body and used as a wireless remote control. The screen can also be reattached in a variety of positions.

The Luna Ultra runs a triple AI chip setup, with a 4nm AI processor and two dedicated imaging chips. It supports Dolby Vision recording, Insta360’s I-Log colour profile for post-production editing, and a 4K60fps PureVideo low-light mode. Its battery life is rated at around four hours, and the camera can charge to 80% in roughly 23 minutes.

The camera also offers Leica-branded colour filters for quick, cinematic looks. It weighs just over 200 grams. 

Head to Head: How Do They Compare?

Which One Is Right for You?

If you’re outside the United States and value the very best image quality, the DJI Osmo Pocket 4P is a really good option. It also edges ahead on built-in storage and fast charging. DJI’s software ecosystem, tracking technology, and accessory range are also well established.

However, if you’re in the US, or if 8K video recording, the innovative detachable screen, and a Leica-tuned look matter to you, the Insta360 Luna Ultra is the one to get. It’s pricier, but it’s available right now, it’s globally supported, and for a first-generation vlogging camera, Insta360 has done more than we could ask for.

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Plugging the smartphone into a wall adapter when the battery dips into the red is never a convenient option. That is one reason why wireless chargers have evolved into a big category of their own — and one brand that made wireless charging mainstream is Apple. 

Apple introduced wireless charging on iPhones with the iPhone X, but its true aha moment didn’t arrive until MagSafe launched in 2020. MagSafe, Apple’s magnetic wireless charging system, made everyday life considerably simpler for iPhone users, as chargers no longer meant an adapter-and-cable combo. A MagSafe charger can be anything from a magnetic battery pack, a wireless pad, or a bedside stand. Now in 2026, the iPhone 17 lineup pushes MagSafe charging up to 25W — as fast as a wired solution on iPhone 16 and iPhone 16 Plus — thanks to the updated Qi2.2 standard. 

Not every wireless charger can hit that ceiling, though. Qi2 is limited to 15W, while older Qi chargers deliver even less. As a result, choosing the right wireless charger is more consequential than it has ever been for iPhone users. The best wireless chargers for iPhone 17 include the Apple MagSafe Charger (25W), the Anker Prime 3-in-1 Wireless Charging Station, the Belkin UltraCharge Pro 10K, the ESR OmniLock Magnetic Car Charger, and the Mophie Roam 3-in-1 Travel Charger. 

Apple MagSafe Charger (25W)

Simplest of all, the Apple MagSafe Charger (25W) is a wireless puck attached to a braided cable with a USB-C connector on the other end. It snaps perfectly onto any modern iPhone, supports Qi2 25W and Qi charging, and can top up an iPhone 16 or iPhone 17 up to 50% in around 30 minutes. The charger is compatible back to the iPhone 12,  but speeds are limited to 15W on older models.  

According to Apple, the 25W MagSafe Charger features a redesigned, stronger magnetic ring that ensures a secure snap into the perfect charging position. And unlike some of the third-party options we have listed here, the official charger also features a full aluminium body for superior heat dissipation, and triggers iOS StandBy mode as soon as you pair it with your iPhone, given the feature is enabled in settings. 

Anker Prime 3-in-1 Wireless Charging Station

The Anker Prime 3-in-1 Wireless Charging Station is for individuals who are constantly on the road. It is compact in size, measuring just 3.74 inches tall, 2.38 inches wide, and weighing just as much as the iPhone 17 Pro Max. For such a compact size, it brings a dedicated seat for earbuds, a watch, and an iPhone, of course. 

The top where the iPhone rests is a foldable module that can lock at angles anywhere from 0 to 60 degrees. This means you can use the charging station even as a stand while watching a movie. On top of that, the station has a TUV-certified AirCool system that Anker says reduces temperature by up to 9.4 degrees Fahrenheit while offering a 24% boost in speed. The fan runs extremely quietly at around 19dB. For everything it packs, the charger also won the Red Dot Design Award 2026. 

Belkin UltraCharge Pro 10K

The Belkin UltraCharge Pro 10K is a battery pack that doubles as a wireless charger, suitable for people who are always on the go. It packs a 10,000mAh battery with support for Qi2.2 25W wireless charging, and 30W wired USB-C output simultaneously. That means the iPhone can charge wirelessly at full MagSafe speed while a second device refills over cable.

What sets this power bank apart from similar options is the secondary magnetic ring on the back, which allows accessories like a PopSocket or magnetic wallet to remain attached while the phone charges. 

It also has a built-in digital display that shows remaining battery percentage at a glance, and the soft-touch silicone exterior keeps it comfortable to hold during use. Belkin rates the UltraCharge Pro 10K at up to 34 hours of additional battery life, and the design is TSA carry-on compliant for air travel.

ESR OmniLock Magnetic Car Charger (25W, CryoBoost)

The ESR OmniLock is built for one specific problem: keeping an iPhone charged and mounted in the car without the usual heat throttling that slows wireless charging speeds down. It is Qi2.2 certified, delivers up to 25W of wireless charging, and features ESR’s CryoBoost active cooling system to manage temperature during fast charging sessions. 

The mount uses N52 magnets for a secure hold, features a 360° rotating arm, and offers 60° of up-and-down and side-to-side adjustability via a ball joint.

In the box, ESR offers a 58W car adapter with both a USB-C port for the charger and a USB-A port for charging a second device simultaneously. Compatibility covers the iPhone 12 through iPhone 17 lineup, excluding SE and mini models, and vent blade support runs from 10 to 32mm wide. 

Mophie Roam 3-in-1 Travel Charger

The Mophie Roam 3-in-1 Travel Charger is the most complete solution on this list for anyone who travels with an iPhone, Apple Watch, and AirPods and wants to leave the cable tangle at home. Launched in June 2026, it charges all three Apple devices simultaneously using Mophie’s new StealthCharge Technology, which eliminates the fan noise common in other fast wireless chargers by moving heat-generating components away from the iPhone’s charging surface. 

The Roam is built around a compact foldable design that fits into an included carrying case, and Mophie says the travel pouch is roughly 15% smaller than the previous generation. Every unit ships with a USB-C cable, a 40W wall adapter, and four international plug adapters covering North America, the UK, the EU, and Australia.

The iPhone pad supports Qi2.2 at 25W, triggers iOS StandBy mode when the phone is placed in landscape orientation, and is available in black or white.

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When it comes to buying a smartphone on a strict budget in the US, Motorola is usually the first brand that comes to mind. While other companies focus heavily on their premium flagship devices, Motorola has maintained a steady output of affordable phones in its Moto G series.

For 2026, the company has updated its lineup with a focus on practical features: larger batteries, durable builds, and the inclusion of Android 16. If you are looking to spend less than $400 this year, here is a look at the most notable Motorola devices available right now, along with one slightly pricier option that might be worth the stretch.

Moto G Power (2026)

The Moto G Power has historically been Motorola’s most balanced budget phone, and the 2026 model continues that trend. Priced at $300, it offers a sensible mix of hardware for everyday tasks.

The phone features a 6.8-inch FHD+ LCD screen. While it isn’t an OLED panel, it does offer a 120Hz refresh rate for smoother scrolling and reaches up to 1000 nits of brightness, which is adequate for outdoor visibility. It is powered by the MediaTek Dimensity 6300 processor and comes with 8GB of RAM. This setup is fine for standard use like web browsing, messaging, and video streaming, though it will likely struggle with heavy gaming.

The phone includes a 5200mAh battery with 30W wired charging, which should easily get most users through a full day. Motorola also added MIL-STD-810H durability and IP68/IP69 water and dust resistance, making it unusually rugged for this price bracket. The trade-off is that it lacks wireless charging, but the inclusion of a vegan leather back gives it a nice texture.

Price: $299.99

Moto G 5G (2026)

If your budget is strictly capped at $200, the Moto G 5G (2026) is the baseline model. Motorola kept the same MediaTek Dimensity 6300 processor and 5200mAh battery found in the G Power, which means battery life and basic performance remain consistent.

However, to hit the lower price point, there are noticeable hardware reductions. The display is a 6.7-inch LCD, but the resolution drops to HD+. It retains the 120Hz refresh rate, but text and images won’t look as sharp. The RAM is also halved to 4GB, which means you might notice some slowdowns when multitasking or keeping multiple apps open in the background.

Additionally, the water resistance is downgraded to a basic IP52 rating, meaning it can handle a light splash but shouldn’t be submerged. It’s a basic phone for basic needs.

Price: $199.99

Moto G Stylus 5G (2026)

While the Moto G Stylus 5G (2026) sits above the $400 mark, it is worth mentioning if you have flexibility in your budget. At $500, it offers a significant step up in hardware and functionality.

The most obvious addition is the built-in active stylus, which now supports tilt and pressure sensitivity. Motorola has integrated it with Google Gemini AI for features like Sketch to Image and a handwriting calculator. The display is also a major upgrade: a 6.7-inch 1.5K pOLED screen that gets significantly brighter than the LCDs on the cheaper models.

Internally, it uses the Qualcomm Snapdragon 6 Gen 3 processor, which offers better performance, and it features a more capable 50MP main camera with a Sony LYT-700C sensor and optical image stabilization. It also adds 68W fast charging and 15W wireless charging, alongside the same high-level IP68/IP69 durability as the G Power.

Price: $499.99

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When the battery indicator turns red, a reliable power bank can be the difference between staying connected and scrambling for an outlet. Anker has long been one of the most trusted names in portable charging, offering a range of options that balance capacity, speed, and everyday practicality. 

The good news for shoppers is that some of the brand’s best performers sit comfortably under the $100 mark on Amazon right now. The best Anker power banks under $100 include the Anker 313 PowerCore 10K, the Anker Nano Power Bank (30W), the Anker 737 PowerCore 24K, the Anker MagGo Power Bank (10K, Slim), and the Anker Prime Power Bank (9.6K, 65W, Fusion).

Anker 313 PowerCore 10K: Best budget pick

For anyone who wants dependable backup power without overthinking it, the Anker 313 PowerCore 10K is about as straightforward as it gets. Priced at around $19 on Amazon, it packs a 10,000mAh battery into a slim, lightweight frame that measures just 5.99 by 2.81 by 0.61 inches and weighs 8.6 ounces. Anker claims the unit can charge an iPhone 15 twice over, a Galaxy S23 close to twice, and an iPad mini about once and a quarter, which covers most day-trip scenarios with ease.

The PowerCore 10K includes a USB-C port for both input and output, a USB-A output port, and a Micro-USB input, so two devices can charge at the same time. Anker’s PowerIQ technology tailors the output to whatever device is connected, and the built-in safety features cover surge protection and short-circuit prevention. 

Anker Nano Power Bank (30W, Built-In USB-C Cable): Best for travel

The Anker Nano Power Bank takes a different approach by eliminating one of the most common travel frustrations: forgetting the cable. Its built-in retractable USB-C cable means one less thing to pack, and the compact form factor makes it easy to slip into a jacket pocket or small pouch. At around $34 on Amazon, it offers 10,000mAh of capacity alongside 30W fast charging output.

The Nano also supports 30W input, meaning the power bank itself recharges quickly when plugged back in. Anker’s PowerIQ technology is on board here as well, intelligently adjusting output for connected devices. The built-in cable is rated to withstand over 10,000 bends, addressing the durability concern that often comes with integrated designs. 

Anker 737 PowerCore 24K: Best for laptops

Step up the budget slightly, and the Anker 737 PowerCore 24K at around $95 on Amazon is one of the most capable power banks available under the $100 threshold. The 24,000mAh capacity gives it serious staying power, and the inclusion of 140W Power Delivery 3.1 via its USB-C port means it can fast-charge a 16-inch MacBook Pro to 50% in roughly 40 minutes.

The 737 features two USB-C ports and one USB-A port, allowing multiple devices to charge simultaneously. It also has a smart display for real-time information on remaining battery percentage and power flow. It is the bulkiest option on this list by some margin, which is the main caveat.

Anker MagGo Power Bank (10K, Slim): Best for iPhone users

Apple users who have grown accustomed to MagSafe will find a natural companion in the Anker MagSafe Power Bank (10K, Slim). Priced at around $80 on Amazon, it attaches magnetically to MagSafe-compatible iPhones and delivers Qi2-certified 15W wireless charging. The slim A1664 design measures just 4.09 by 2.78 by 0.58 inches and weighs 7.05 ounces.

The USB-C port supports both 30W input and 30W wired output, offering flexibility for those who also want to cable-charge a second device. Anker’s ActiveShield safety system monitors temperature at a very high frequency throughout the charging process. 

The usable wireless capacity lands in the 5,500 to 6,500mAh range after typical conversion losses, but for iPhone users who prioritize convenience and cable-free everyday charging, it remains a polished and well-executed option.

Anker Prime Power Bank (9.6K, 65W, Fusion): Best 2-in-1

The Anker Prime Fusion takes a unique approach by combining a power bank and a wall charger into a single unit, priced at $70 on Amazon. The built-in foldable AC plug lets it plug directly into a wall outlet to recharge itself while simultaneously charging a connected device via its USB-C port at up to 65W. That dual functionality makes it a genuinely space-saving solution for travelers who want to cut down on the number of accessories they pack without sacrificing charging speed.

With 9,600mAh of capacity and 65W output, it handles fast charging for phones and lighter laptops with ease. The trade-off is that the capacity is lower than some other picks on this list, so it may not be the right call for those needing multiple full charges on a single outing. 

As an all-in-one option for the daily commuter or business traveler, though, it covers the bases efficiently and stylishly, and the “Prime” branding means it comes with Anker’s higher-tier build quality and safety standards baked in.

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Apple’s iPhone 17 Pro is a highly capable device. The transition to an aerospace-grade aluminum unibody makes it lighter, the A19 Pro chip delivers reliable performance, and the new 48MP telephoto lens is a practical upgrade for mobile photographers. But as we move through 2026, the smartphone market is broader than just iOS.

If you are planning to spend around $1,000 on a new phone, it is worth looking at what the rest of the industry is doing. Android manufacturers have spent the last few years rethinking battery chemistry, expanding camera focal lengths, and improving display technology. Today, several alternatives offer larger batteries, faster charging, and more versatile camera systems for the same price, or even less.

Here is a look at five of the most compelling alternatives to the iPhone 17 Pro available right now.

Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra

Priced similarly to Apple’s top-tier models, the Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra remains the most direct competitor to the iPhone Pro and Pro Max. This year, Samsung has slimmed the device down to 7.9mm while introducing a few practical hardware innovations. The most unique is the built-in Privacy Display, which restricts viewing angles to keep your screen hidden from people sitting next to you on a train or in a cafe.

On the software side, Samsung is focusing on what it calls Agentic AI. Instead of just answering questions, the updated Bixby assistant can navigate phone settings and complete tasks based on conversational requests.

The camera system remains comprehensive, featuring a 200MP main sensor and a 50MP periscope lens with 5x optical zoom. Paired with seven years of guaranteed OS updates, the S26 Ultra is a long-term investment that matches the iPhone on longevity while offering a very different software approach.

Oppo Find X9 Ultra

Oppo has positioned the Find X9 Ultra as a camera-first device, heavily leaning into its partnership with Hasselblad. The phone features an eco-leather back inspired by the Hasselblad X2D 100C Earth Explorer, giving it a distinct, tactile feel compared to the standard glass and metal slabs on the market.

Oppo has included a 7,050mAh Glacier Battery, utilizing a new silicon-carbon anode material. This allows for a significantly larger battery capacity without making the phone overly thick. It also supports 100W wired charging, which is a noticeable step up from the iPhone 17 Pro’s 40W limit.

The camera array includes six lenses, highlighted by a 10x optical zoom Hasselblad telephoto and a 200MP main sensor. You can zoom even further with the Hasselblad Professional Imaging Accessory Kit.

The device also supports dual-satellite communication for areas without cellular service. For roughly the same price as the base iPhone 17 Pro, the Find X9 Ultra offers a hardware package that prioritizes battery endurance and photographic flexibility.

Xiaomi 17 Ultra

Xiaomi’s ongoing collaboration with Leica has resulted in some of the most interesting camera phones of the last few years, and the Xiaomi 17 Ultra continues that trend. At 8.29mm thick, it features a 6.9-inch flat OLED LTPO display that can reach a peak brightness of 3500 nits.

The camera system is built around a 1-inch Light Fusion 1050L sensor and a Leica 200MP optical zoom telephoto. Because the system uses the full 1/1.4-inch sensor across its 75mm-100mm equivalent range, it can capture native 200MP images without relying on digital cropping.

For users who want a more traditional photography experience, Xiaomi offers an optional Photography Kit Pro. This grip attachment adds a two-stage shutter button, a zoom lever, and an additional 2000mAh battery. It is a niche accessory, but it shows Xiaomi’s commitment to users who view their phone primarily as a camera.

Vivo X300 Ultra

Vivo’s X Series has built a quiet reputation for excellent color science and portrait photography, and the X300 Ultra refines that formula. Co-engineered with ZEISS, the phone is designed to handle complex lighting and varied focal lengths with consistency.

The standout component is the 200MP 85mm APO Telephoto camera. Built to ZEISS APO standards to reduce chromatic aberration, it includes a specialized OIS system that helps stabilize shots in low light or at long distances. Vivo also included a multi-spectral sensor with 12 color channels to ensure accurate color reproduction across different environments.

Just like the Xiaomi 17 Ultra and Find X9 Ultra, Vivo offers an optional X300 Ultra Photography Kit for users who want a more dedicated shooting experience. This kit includes an imaging grip and physical lens attachments, specifically, 200mm and 400mm equivalent vivo ZEISS Telephoto Extenders, allowing you to push the phone’s optical zoom capabilities even further.

Powered by the Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 and a 6,600mAh battery, the X300 Ultra is well-equipped to handle demanding tasks like 4K 120fps video recording. If your main priority is taking photos of people or shooting at a distance, the X300 Ultra offers a highly specialized toolset that directly rivals Apple’s computational photography.

OnePlus 15

While the other phones on this list sit firmly in the $1,000+ premium tier, the OnePlus 15 takes a different approach. At $799, it undercuts the iPhone 17 Pro by a significant margin while still providing high-end specifications.

OnePlus 15 comes with a huge 7,300mAh Silicon NanoStack battery. It is currently one of the largest batteries available in a mainstream smartphone, and with 120W wired charging, it requires very little time plugged into a wall. The display is a 6.78-inch 1.5K AMOLED panel with a 165Hz refresh rate, which will appeal to mobile gamers.

It runs on the same Snapdragon 8 Elite Gen 5 chip as the more expensive Android models on this list. While its camera system, a 50MP main, 50MP ultrawide, and 50MP 3.5x periscope, may lack the Leica or Hasselblad co-branding of its competitors, it remains a very capable setup for daily use. For buyers who want premium performance without crossing the four-figure price threshold, the OnePlus 15 is a highly practical option.

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