Introduction

If you’ve recently invested in Apple’s latest 12.9-inch iPad Pro but find yourself hesitant about splurging on the pricey Magic Keyboard, the Logitech Combo Touch presents itself as a compelling alternative. In this comprehensive review, we’ll delve into the features, performance, and overall value proposition of the Logitech Combo Touch, exploring whether it’s the ideal companion for your iPad Pro needs.

Specs

• Price: $329, available on Lazada and Shopee
• Connectivity: Apple Smart Connector
• Weight: 780g

Design

The Logitech Combo Touch boasts a two-piece design comprising a protective case with an integrated kickstand and a detachable keyboard with a trackpad. This design allows for four versatile use modes – viewing, sketching, reading, and typing – catering to various user preferences and activities.

Performance

Priced nearly $200 cheaper than Apple’s Magic Keyboard, the Logitech Combo Touch offers exceptional value for money. Both the protective case and detachable keyboard feature a fabric-like exterior, providing a sturdy grip and resistance to slippage and scratches. The grey colorway adds a touch of sophistication while effectively concealing dirt and smudges.

Features

One of the standout features of the Logitech Combo Touch is its seamless integration with the iPad Pro via the Smart Connector, eliminating the need for charging or pairing. The detachable keyboard offers a familiar layout with responsive keys and a full row of iPadOS shortcut keys for enhanced productivity. Additionally, the auto-adjusting backlit keys with 16 levels of brightness ensure comfortable typing in any environment.

Usability

While the Combo Touch excels in usability and functionality, its design does have some drawbacks. The extended rear kickstand may take up more table space compared to the Magic Keyboard, and its weight of 780g makes it slightly heavier. Furthermore, the lack of a USB-C port for charging may be a downside for some users.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the Logitech Combo Touch emerges as a worthy contender to Apple’s Magic Keyboard, offering excellent value for money without compromising on performance or features. Whether you’re typing emails, sketching ideas, or binge-watching your favorite shows, the Combo Touch provides versatility and functionality in a sleek and affordable package.

Ratings

• Design: 8/10
• Performance: 8/10
• Value for Money: 8/10
• Overall: 8/10

Introduction

The Samsung Galaxy Z Fold3 5G, the third iteration of Samsung’s foldable smartphone, has made its debut in Singapore amid much anticipation and excitement. With reports of it being sold out shortly after its release, many are left wondering if it’s worth the hype. Let’s dive into the details and explore whether the Galaxy Z Fold3 lives up to its expectations.

Specs

• Price: S$2,398 (256GB), S$2,548 (512GB); available on Lazada and Shopee
• Processor: Qualcomm Snapdragon 888 5G
• Main Display: 7.6-inch QXGA+ Dynamic AMOLED, 2,208 x 1,768 pixels
• Cover Display: 6.2-inch HD+ Dynamic AMOLED, 2,268 x 832 pixels
• Operating System: Android 11
• Rear Cameras: 12MP ultra-wide-angle, 12MP wide-angle, 12MP telephoto
• Front Camera: 4MP
• Cover Camera: 10MP
• Memory: 256GB/512GB; 12GB RAM
• Battery: Non-removable 4,400mAh
• Weight: 271g

Design

The Galaxy Z Fold3 retains the signature foldable design of its predecessors, seamlessly transitioning from a compact smartphone to an expansive tablet-like display. Despite its sleek and innovative form factor, the Fold3 is sturdier than ever, featuring a stronger aluminum frame and boasting an IPX8 water resistance rating for added durability.

Performance

Powered by the Qualcomm Snapdragon 888 5G processor, the Galaxy Z Fold3 delivers top-notch performance, effortlessly handling multitasking, gaming, and productivity tasks. The inclusion of a 120Hz refresh rate on both the main and cover displays ensures smooth and responsive touch interactions, enhancing the overall user experience.

Features

One of the standout features of the Galaxy Z Fold3 is its under-display selfie camera on the main screen, eliminating the need for a distracting punch-hole or notch. This allows users to immerse themselves fully in the stunning visuals without any obstructions. Additionally, the Fold3 supports the S Pen stylus, enabling users to unleash their creativity and productivity on the expansive display.

Usability

While the Fold3 excels in usability and functionality, it does have some drawbacks. The narrow cover screen may pose challenges for typing and navigating, and the absence of expandable storage may limit storage options for users with large media libraries. However, the ability to open up to three apps simultaneously in a split-screen layout on the main display enhances productivity on the go.

Camera

The Galaxy Z Fold3 features a versatile triple-camera system, delivering sharp and vibrant images in various lighting conditions. However, the under-display selfie camera may not match the quality of the cover camera, exhibiting softer details and noticeable purple fringing. Nonetheless, the camera performance overall remains commendable.

Battery Life

With its non-removable 4,400mAh battery, the Galaxy Z Fold3 offers respectable battery life, lasting a full day with moderate usage. However, battery performance may vary depending on the usage patterns and display settings.

Verdict

In conclusion, the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold3 5G emerges as a formidable contender in the foldable smartphone market, offering a perfect blend of innovation, performance, and versatility. While its premium price tag may deter some potential buyers, those seeking a cutting-edge device that seamlessly combines the functionalities of a smartphone and a tablet will find the Fold3 to be a worthy investment.

Ratings

• Features: 9/10
• Design: 9/10
• Performance: 8/10
• Battery Life: 8/10
• Value for Money: 7/10
• Overall: 8/10

Introduction

Jabra, a leader in personal sound and office solutions, has expanded its true wireless range with the latest addition to its Evolve series – the Evolve2 Buds. Designed to enhance concentration and facilitate collaboration, these true wireless buds are tailored for professionals who are constantly on the move. With certification for leading virtual meeting platforms and advanced noise reduction technology, the Evolve2 Buds aim to deliver clear calls and uninterrupted focus.

Pros

• Companion App Customizations: The companion app offers EQ adjustments and control customizations, allowing users to personalize their audio experience.
• Waterproof and Dust-Resistant Design: With an IP57 rating, the Evolve2 Buds are built to withstand water and dust, ensuring durability in various environments.
• Excellent Mic Clarity: The buds feature outstanding microphone clarity, making them ideal for important calls and virtual meetings.
• USB Adapter Inclusion: The inclusion of a USB adapter provides a more stable connection, particularly beneficial for Unified Communications (UC) users.
• Wireless Case Charging: The wireless charging case adds convenience, allowing users to charge on the go without the hassle of cables.

Cons

• No aptX Support: The absence of aptX support may be disappointing for users seeking high-fidelity audio streaming.
• Separate Models for UC and Teams Edition: The need for separate models for Unified Communications (UC) and Microsoft Teams may cause confusion for some users.

What’s In the Box?

The Evolve2 Buds come packaged with a USB dongle (available in USB-A or USB-C options) corresponding to the user’s edition preference (UC or Teams). Additionally, the inclusion of five different silicone tip sizes ensures a comfortable and secure fit for users of all ear sizes. The buds and USB dongle conveniently fit inside the wireless charging case, providing portability and protection.

Connectivity

Featuring Bluetooth 5.2 compatibility and support for AAC and SBC codecs, the Evolve2 Buds offer reliable connectivity and the ability to connect to multiple Bluetooth devices simultaneously. The inclusion of a USB adapter ensures stable connections, especially during crucial calls or virtual meetings.

Sound Quality

The Evolve2 Buds prioritize high-quality conversations with Jabra MultiSensor Voice™ technology, utilizing a combination of four microphones, bone conduction sensors, and advanced algorithms to minimize background noise. The Jabra Sound+ app allows for in-app customization of ANC (Active Noise Cancellation) and EQ settings, enhancing the user’s audio experience.

Ergonomics/Comfort/Features

Designed for extended wear, the silicone tips ensure comfort during long work hours and leisure activities. The buds feature ANC for immersive music enjoyment during commutes, along with intuitive touch controls for music playback. The auto-pause feature enhances user convenience by automatically pausing playback when one earbud is removed.

Conclusion

The Jabra Evolve2 Buds are an excellent choice for individuals frequently engaged in work calls and virtual meetings. With effective ANC, superb battery life, and fast charging capabilities, these buds offer convenience and performance. While the lack of aptX support may disappoint audiophiles, the in-app customizations and overall functionality make the Evolve2 Buds a compelling option for professionals seeking reliable audio solutions. Available at an RRP of S$424, the Evolve2 Buds are now accessible through the Jabra official store or on Shopee.

Introduction

Sony’s A7C camera has garnered praise in the photography community for its versatility and reliability. Designed to cater to professional photographers, the A7C offers a compact yet powerful solution for various shooting scenarios. Paired with the FE 24-70mm F2.8 GM II lens, this combination promises exceptional performance and flexibility. But in a rapidly evolving market, is this pairing still relevant in 2022?

What We Love About the Sony A7C Camera

The Sony A7C impresses with its lightweight and compact design, making it ideal for on-the-go professionals. Despite its small size, it boasts features like a flip screen with touch control and in-camera image stabilization. The advanced autofocus system, including Eye AF, ensures precise focusing, even in challenging conditions.

Pocket Rocket – A Lightweight Setup that Packs a Punch

The A7C’s compact size makes it perfect for professionals seeking a lightweight setup without compromising performance. With features like a fully articulating flip screen, it caters to vloggers and solo content creators, offering flexibility in framing and shooting angles.

Perfect Accompaniment – Pairing it with the Sony 24-70mm GM II

The Sony 24-70mm F2.8 GM II lens complements the A7C perfectly, offering versatility and exceptional image quality. Designed as a lightweight yet professional-grade lens, it provides a wide zoom range and impressive resolution. Whether capturing wide shots or close-ups, this lens delivers sharp, artifact-free images with swift focusing capabilities.

Conclusion – The Go-To Setup for Portable Shooters

Despite being in the market for a couple of years, the Sony A7C and FE 24-70mm F2.8 GM II lens remain relevant and highly sought after by photographers. The combination offers a compelling solution for professionals seeking portability without compromising on performance. With features like fast autofocus and a versatile zoom range, this setup is well-suited for event coverage and various shooting scenarios. For photographers on the move, the A7C and 24-70mm GM II lens duo continues to be the go-to choice, providing reliability and exceptional image quality in a compact package.