Wi-Fi Routers - The 10 Best Wi-Fi Routers For 2023

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Wi-Fi Routers – The 10 Best Wi-Fi Routers For 2023

Wi-Fi Routers – The 10 Best Wi-Fi Routers For 2023

What prevents you from switching to the highest-rated WiFi routers that can enhance your home network? Are you experiencing a slow network connection?
This blog has compiled a list of the most efficient WiFi routers that offer faster connectivity. Therefore, there is no need to be concerned anymore. Simply keep reading to select the one that best fits your needs.
 

Best Wi-Fi Routers For 2023

Here are the best wifi router for you

1. Asus RT-AX86UAsus RT-AX86UAsus RT-AX86U

The Asus RT-AX86U is an excellent choice for households with multiple users and is particularly well-suited for gaming. Additionally, it offers a reliable solution for securing your entire home network, providing long-term protection without requiring a subscription fee. Moreover, it includes a two-year warranty.
However, the standout feature of the Asus RT-AX86U is its impressive performance, which we tested and found to approach the remarkable speed of 1Gbps. This router effortlessly provides fast connectivity for all devices in our testing. It boasts exceptional range and performance, even penetrating walls and traversing multiple floors, making it equally suitable as a general-use and gaming router.
Features
Wi-Fi Spec: Wi-Fi 6/Dual-band
Number of Antennas/Removable: 3/Yes
Ports: 1 WAN/1 Multi-Gig WAN/ 4 LAN gigabit per second, 2 USB 3.0
Peak Throughput: 929.7Mbps
Size: 9.0 x 6.7 x 3.1 inches
 

2. Netgear Orbi WiFi 6E (RBKE963)

Netgear’s Orbi WiFi 6E, specifically the RBKE963 model, is recognized as one of the top mesh Wi-Fi systems available, albeit with a higher price tag. If you have the financial means, a gigabit broadband connection from your internet service provider, and a large residence, this mesh system is likely the ideal choice for you.
The Orbi WiFi 6E has an impressive coverage range of up to 9,000 square feet, and the addition of a third satellite can extend it to 12,000 square feet. Notably, when tested at a distance of 15 feet, the router’s 6-GHz channel achieved a throughput exceeding one gigabit per second.

Features

Wi-Fi spec: Wi-Fi 6e/Quad-band
Number of antennas/removable: 12/No
Ports: 1 WAN/4 LAN (base unit), 4 LAN (satellites)
Measured peak throughput: 1.009 Gbps
Size: 11.1 x 7.5 x 3.0 inches
 

3. TP-Link Archer AX6000

The TP-Link Archer AX6000 router, our preferred affordable Wi-Fi 6 router, prioritizes value over cost. While it may have some limitations in terms of performance and range, it offers Wi-Fi 6 speeds at a lower price than its competitors.
With its eight wired networking ports and the capability to combine two ports to achieve a 2Gbps data stream, TP-Link’s Archer AX6000 excels in wired and wireless device connectivity for Wi-Fi 6 routers. Additionally, including router-based security sets the Archer AX6000 apart as one of the top routers available, all at a price that is difficult to match.

Features

Wi-Fi Spec: Wi-Fi 6/Dual-band
Number of Antennas/Removable: 8/Yes
Ports: 1 WAN/8 LAN gigabit per second, USB 3, USB C
Peak Throughput: 884.4Mbps
Size: 10.3 x 10.3 x 2.4 inches
 

4. Netgear Nighthawk AX8 (RAX80)

The Netgear Nighthawk AX8 (RAX80) Wi-Fi 6 router offers seamless integration of top-notch performance and advanced security features. It provides outstanding throughput, surpassing the gigabit per second threshold, while also offering malware protection and access to the Disney Circle app for managing family network usage and blocking inappropriate content.
It boasts a range of 90 feet, but we found that its performance was notably better at distances of around 50 feet, making it particularly suitable for medium-sized homes. In terms of both speed and safety, the Netgear Nighthawk AX8 (RAX80) is the go-to Wi-Fi 6 router if you prioritize uncompromised performance. However, it is worth noting that its performance diminishes significantly over longer distances.

Features

Wi-Fi Spec: Wi-Fi 6/Dual-band
Number of Antennas/Removable: 8/Yes
Ports: 1 WAN/5 LAN gigabit per second, 2 USB 3.0
Peak Throughput: 1.389 Gbps
Size: 12.0 x 8.0 x 6.3 inches
 

5. Asus ROG Rapture GT-AX11000

The Asus ROG Rapture GT-AX11000 is a router designed specifically for gamers, offering an exceptional combination of speed, extended range performance, low latency, and all the essential features that gamers desire.
Furthermore, the GT-AX11000 comes with built-in customization features and optimizations tailored for gaming, granting users extensive control over their gaming experience. Additionally, it is possible to pair the GT-AX11000 with other Asus routers to create a mesh network that covers larger homes, ensuring seamless connectivity throughout the entire space.

Features

Wi-Fi Spec: 802.11ac/Tri-Band
Number of Antennas/Removable: 8/Yes
Ports: 1 WAN, 4 1-Gbps LAN, 1 2.5-Gbps LAN, 2 USB 3.0
Peak Throughput: 731.4 Mbps
Size: 9.4 x 9.4 x 2.8 inches
 

6. Nest WiFi

The Google Nest Wi-Fi is a combination of a high-quality mesh Wi-Fi router and a smart home speaker, offering comprehensive connectivity throughout your entire home, coupled with the convenience of Google Assistant integration, regardless of your location within the house. While it does not support Wi-Fi 6, it does feature built-in Bluetooth and 802.15.4 Thread mesh networking capabilities, enabling efficient connections with low-power home automation devices.

Features

Wi-Fi Spec: 802.11ac/dual band
Number of Antennas/Removable: 4/No
Ports: Two 1-Gbps LAN
Peak Throughput: 653.2 Mbps
Size: 4.3 x 4.3 x 3.6 inches
 

7. Netgear Nighthawk RAXE500

Netgear made waves by introducing the Netgear Nighthawk RAXE500 as the initial Wi-Fi 6e router available, and the outcomes are astonishing. With the addition of the new 6-GHz band to the already remarkable features of Wi-Fi 6, the Nighthawk RAXE500 achieves outstanding performance that sets the benchmark in its category. However, it comes with a price tag of $599, making it a high-end investment.

Features

Wi-Fi Spec: Wi-Fi 6e/Tri-band
Number of Antennas/Removable: 8/No
Ports: 1 WAN/4 LAN gigabit per second, 2 USB 3.0
Throughput: 2.396Gbps
Size: 12.0 x 8.6 x 3.3 inches
 

8. Reyee RG-E5

The Reyee RG-E5 offers exceptional value as a Wi-Fi 6 router that provides coverage for up to 3,000 square feet. It has the capability to function as the central hub of a mesh network when combined with other Reyee devices, and its setup process is made effortless with a convenient one-touch button. However, due to its affordable price point, the Reyee RG-E5 does not include additional features such as built-in security software, port aggregation, or a USB port for connecting storage devices to the network.

Features

Wi-Fi Spec: AX3200
Number of Antennas/Removable: 8/No
Ports: 1 WAN/4 LAN gigabit per second
Peak Throughput: 849.2Mbps (at 15 feet)
Size: 9.0 x 9.0 x 1.5 inches
 

9. TP-Link Archer C5400X

The TP-Link Archer C5400X sets the standard for gaming routers, showcasing exceptional performance that surpasses most other home networking devices. Its outstanding tri-band capabilities achieve top-tier performance by providing 1Gbps over its 2.4GHz band and 2.167Gbps across its two 5GHz channels. Moreover, it boasts impressive coverage, offering a superb range of over 100 feet, ensuring strong and clear Wi-Fi signals that effectively blanket most homes.

Features

Wi-Fi Spec: 802.11ac/Tri-Band
Number of Antennas/Removable: 8/No
Ports: 1 WAN, 8 1-Gbps LAN, 1 USB 2.0
Peak Throughput: 859.5 Mbps
Size: 11.2 x 11.2 x 7.6 inches
 

10. Linksys EA8300 Max Stream

If you’re seeking a router that allows for extensive customization, the Linksys EA8300 Max-Stream is our top recommendation. This tri-band router delivers excellent performance and provides a wide range of tools and settings to fine-tune and personalize your router for optimal performance. Despite its compact size and black design, the EA8300 Max-Stream can handle substantial data traffic, making it a great choice for smaller homes. While its range may be more suitable for smaller spaces, it still delivers impressive performance, considering its affordable price point of under $200.

Features

Wi-Fi Spec: 802.11ac/Tri-Band
Number of Antennas/Removable: 6/No
Ports: 1 WAN, 4 1-Gbps LAN, 1 USB 3.0
Peak Throughput: 626.5 Mbps
Size: 8.5 x 6.4 x 2.2 inches

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Samsung Galaxy Watch 6 – Everything You Must Know About Samsung Galaxy Watch 6

Samsung Galaxy Watch 6 – Everything You Must Know About Samsung Galaxy Watch 6

Samsung is making significant strides in the field of wearable devices, and its latest offering, the Samsung Galaxy Watch 6, showcases its commitment to innovation. While details about this highly anticipated wearable device have been limited, anticipation and excitement among consumers are high. This article will explore the expected features and capabilities of the Samsung Galaxy Watch 6, providing insights into what users can look forward to.

 

Samsung Galaxy Watch 6 Release date

While Samsung has not made any official statements regarding the Galaxy Watch 6 series, it is reasonable to speculate that the company will continue its successful line of Galaxy Watches. Considering Samsung’s consistent release patterns in the past, it is likely that the Galaxy Watch 6 series will be launched towards the end of August 2023.

Samsung Galaxy Watch 6 Price

While the exact pricing details for the Samsung Galaxy Watch 6 series are currently unknown, the pricing is anticipated to be in line with the Galaxy Watch 5 series. The Galaxy Watch 5 was available at a starting price of $279 / £269, while the Watch 5 Pro was priced from $449 / £429. For the upcoming Watch 6 series, the 40mm GPS-only model is expected to have a starting price of $279 / £269.

What are the expected features of the Samsung Galaxy Watch 6?

There hasn’t been any official confirmation regarding the features of the Samsung Galaxy Watch 6 series. However, there are several potential features that we might expect to see when the device is released in August.

1. Larger Display

As per a recent tweet by renowned tech leaker Ice Universe, the upcoming Watch 6 is expected to feature a larger display with improved resolution. There are indications that the new watch might adopt a curved glass display and slimmer bezels, potentially resembling the design of the Pixel Watch.
Currently, the Galaxy Watch 5 has a screen size of 1.4 inches, so we can anticipate a 0.7-inch increase in display size. While the increments may seem small, they can have a noticeable impact on usability, making navigation and interface interaction more enjoyable with the additional space and enhanced resolution. It’s worth noting that the watch’s display is not intended for watching full-length movies, but the extra screen real estate can enhance the overall user experience.

 2. Battery Length

According to Dutch tech site GalaxyClub reports, the upcoming Watch 6 is expected to feature slightly larger battery capacities than its predecessors. Based on leaked images, it appears that the 40mm watch will see an increase from 284mAh to 300mAh, while the 44mm variant will go from 410mAh to 425mAh. Although it is yet to be determined how these changes will impact the overall usage time of the Watch before requiring a recharge, any improvement in battery life for smartwatches is generally appreciated by users.

3. New Processor

Regarding processing power, the upcoming Galaxy Watch 6 is expected to receive an upgrade, as reported by SamMobile. The current Exynos W920 chip in the Galaxy Watch 4 and 5 series is said to be replaced by the more advanced Exynos W980 in the Watch 6. This upgrade is anticipated to deliver up to a 10% improvement in performance, along with enhanced health-tracking capabilities.

4. New Version of Tracking Software

Samsung is dedicated to enhancing the software experience on the Galaxy Watch 6, and this has been evident through the public beta release of the upcoming One UI 5 Watch update. This software update is anticipated to coincide with the launch of the new hardware.

In addition to software improvements, Samsung is expected to make refinements to the tracking hardware on the Watch 6. It’s worth noting that these upgrades will likely be available to current Galaxy Watch 4 and Watch 5 owners, ensuring that they can also benefit from the latest features and enhancements.

Conclusion

We encourage you to stay updated on the Samsung Galaxy Watch 6 release date and to regularly visit the website for any future updates. Doing so ensures that you stay informed about the latest information regarding the device.

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itel P40 – Newly discovered itel Product And its Top 10 Amazing Features

itel P40 – Newly discovered itel Product And its Top 10 Amazing Features

The arrival of itel’s latest product, the itel P40, has generated a lot of excitement among users. Its remarkable features have caught everyone’s attention, and the phone’s entry into the African market can potentially disrupt the budget phone segment on the continent. This blog post will introduce and explore the ten impressive features that the itel P40 offers. Stay tuned and keep reading to uncover these exciting features.

Top 10 itel P40 Amazing Features

here are the amazing features

1. Powerful 6000mAh Battery with 18W Fast Charge

The itel P40 has a powerful 6000mAh battery that provides exceptional endurance, eliminating the need for frequent recharging. Whether you use your phone extensively or have a busy lifestyle, the long-lasting battery ensures uninterrupted daily connectivity. Moreover, the device supports 18W fast charging, enabling you to replenish the battery quickly and minimize downtime.

2. 8GB (4+4GB) RAM for Seamless Multitasking

The itel P40 offers an impressive 8GB of RAM, providing ample memory for seamless multitasking and effortless app navigation. Whether juggling multiple apps or engaging in graphics-intensive gaming, the generous RAM ensures a smooth and lag-free experience. With this abundant memory, you can maximize your productivity and enjoy a seamless user interface without disruptions.

3. 64GB Expandable ROM for Ample Storage

The itel P40 offers a substantial internal storage capacity of 64GB, providing ample space to store your photos, videos, apps, and files. The device also supports expandable storage of up to 256GB through a dedicated microSD card slot if you require additional storage. This allows you to easily increase your storage options and accommodate even more data, ensuring plenty of room for all your multimedia and files.

4. Vibrant Color Options to Match Your Style

The itel P40 offers a variety of eye-catching colour choices, such as Force Black, Luxurious Gold, and Fantasy Blue. This allows you to select the colour that aligns with your style and preferences, enabling you to express yourself and make a bold statement with your smartphone.

5. Affordable 59,900 Naira Price Point

In a time when smartphones are becoming increasingly expensive, the itel P40 distinguishes itself with its affordable price point. It provides excellent value for its cost, ensuring that you get the most out of your money without sacrificing quality or essential features. This makes it an appealing choice for budget-conscious individuals seeking a reliable, feature-rich smartphone.

6. Impressive Camera System for Capturing Memorable Moments

The camera system of the itel P40 sets it apart, enabling you to capture impressive photos and videos. Its 13MP AI triple rear camera configuration, which consists of a 13MP main sensor, a depth sensor, and an ultra-wide-angle lens, empowers you to capture stunning images with exceptional sharpness and precision. Additionally, the device incorporates several AI enhancements and shooting modes, providing the tools to unlock your creativity and effortlessly capture memorable moments.

7. User-Friendly Android Interface for Intuitive Navigation

Powered by the latest Android S Go operating system, the itel P40 delivers a user-friendly and intuitive interface. Its clean design and easily navigable menus enable you to access your preferred applications and settings swiftly, guaranteeing a smooth and enjoyable user experience.

8. Advanced Security Features to Protect Your Data

The itel P40 prioritizes security, offering advanced features to safeguard your smartphone experience. With the inclusion of a fingerprint sensor and face unlock technology, the device ensures convenient and secure methods for protecting your data and personal information. These cutting-edge security features provide peace of mind and enhance the overall security of your device.

9. Additional Great Features for Enhanced Functionality

The itel P40 goes the extra mile to enhance the overall user experience. It provides dual SIM support, easily managing multiple phone numbers. With 4G connectivity, you can enjoy fast and reliable internet access. The device also offers Bluetooth and Wi-Fi capabilities, enabling seamless connectivity with other devices and networks. Additionally, a headphone jack ensures you can enjoy your favourite audio content without any hassle. These functionalities combine to keep you connected, entertained, and productive on the go.

10. Reliable Performance and Durability

The itel P40 merges full specifications with dependable performance and durability. It’s solid construction and resilient materials guarantee its ability to withstand everyday usage demands, ensuring a reliable and long-lasting smartphone experience.

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kids Headphones – Top 7 Best Kids Headphones

kids Headphones – Top 7 Best Kids Headphones

Parents must prioritize their children’s hearing and select appropriate headphones to prevent any potential damage. Choosing the right headphones for kids is essential, especially for activities like remote learning. Additionally, child-specific headphones can be beneficial during long trips, such as flights or train journeys, as they allow children to watch movies and keep themselves entertained.
Factors like fit, comfort, and design should be considered when selecting headphones, along with limiting the amount of time children spend wearing them, regardless of the volume level. This article has compiled a list of the best smart headphones for kids, considering sound quality, volume limitation, comfort, and safety.

Best Headphones for Kids 

Here are the top-rated headphones recommended for children.

1. iClever TransNova BTH16

This headphone is highly recommended for children due to its wireless functionality, excellent sound quality, limited volume, and affordability. It offers long-lasting battery life for Bluetooth headphones and is lightweight and comfortable to wear with an adjustable headband. During our testing, we confirmed that the volume is limited to 85dB, ensuring the safety of your child’s hearing.
After a full charge, setting up the headphones is easy through Bluetooth 5.0 pairing. Additionally, they come with a detachable cable for situations when the headphones need to be used without battery power. The earpiece features basic controls for playback, call management, and voice assistant activation.
The headphones include multicoloured LEDs on each earpiece for added fun and style. These can be easily turned on or off with a button, allowing your child to customize their headphone experience.

2. ONANOFF BuddyPhones School+

Like the iClever TransNova BTH16, the onanoff buddyphones offer excellent sound quality and are foldable and affordable. However, the main difference is that the Onanoff buddyphones are not wireless. These headphones are designed specifically for remote learning and feature a high-quality microphone that allows for the addition of another headset. Additionally, they come with a mic-less cable for situations where the microphone is not needed.
The audio quality of these headphones is impressive for both the wearer and the listener. They incorporate a kid-safe volume-limiting feature set at 85dB, ensuring a practical and safe listening experience without being too loud or too quiet. The headphones also provide effective passive noise cancellation.
The over-ear design of the headphones offers comfort and adjustability and comes with various stickers for customization. Available in colours such as Blue, Pink, Green, and Yellow, they also include a convenient carry bag for easy transportation.

3. ONANOFF BuddyPhones Cosmos+

The Cosmos+ headphones offer exceptional wireless audio quality, rivalling some of the best kid options. They have all the essential features, including a detachable boom microphone for video calls. The audio experience is enhanced by including active noise cancellation, effectively blocking unwanted background noise.
To ensure safe listening levels, the headphones offer three audio modes: Toddler Mode limits the volume to 75dB for ear protection, Kids Mode allows for a maximum of 85dB, and Travel Mode increases the volume to 94dB to drown out external noise. It is advisable to stick to the lower levels whenever possible. A Study Mode is also available, which isolates voices and enhances vocal clarity, making it beneficial for online learning and studying.
The headphones have a durable travel case and feature USB-C charging for convenience, eliminating the need for the older micro USB connection. In case the 24-hour battery life is depleted, a separate audio cable is available for wired use. One potential drawback is that the design may appear more suitable for younger children and not appeal as much to older kids.

4. Puro Sound BT2200 Plus

While the BT2200 Plus headphones may not be suitable for younger children, they are a great option for older kids. These wireless headphones deliver high-quality sound, although they may be slightly louder than other models. It’s worth noting that they are not foldable.
The volume of the BT2200 Plus headphones is limited to 85dBA, which we found to be more than sufficient for safe listening. The headphones utilize DSP-based volume-limiting technology, actively monitoring volume levels and engaging the limiter only when the sound reaches 85 dBA.
Since these headphones use Bluetooth connectivity, they need to be charged. The battery life of “up to 20 hours” should be ample for most journeys. Additionally, they charge via a USB-C cable, which is more convenient than the fiddly micro USB commonly found on kids’ headphones.
The Puro Sound Labs BT2200 Plus headphones come at a higher price than many other kids’ headphones. However, their superior audio quality, solid build, and wireless functionality make them strong contenders for our top favourites.

5. imoo Ear-care Headset

The remarkable feature of the imoo Ear-care Kids wireless headphones is their clever design that keeps the speaker positioned away from the eardrum. Instead of placing the speakers directly in the ear canal, they are positioned just in front of the ear, allowing the sound to be directed into the ear while still allowing outside sounds to be heard. Surprisingly, the leakage of sound to the surrounding environment is minimal.
Specifically designed for children aged 4-15, the Imoo headset is lightweight, weighing only 30g.
The headphones’ volume is limited to 85dB, although they may seem slightly louder than other models. However, we were less concerned about this aspect as the sound is not directly delivered into the child’s ear canal, reducing potential harm.

6. Snuggly Rascals

These headphones are designed to wrap around the child’s head and can be adjusted using Velcro, ensuring a secure fit. They provide audio and warmth for the child’s ears, and their design makes them less prone to falling off or breaking compared to regular headphones. The headphones are extremely comfortable, and the flat speakers embedded within the material are hardly noticeable.
The sound quality remains good despite being covered by fleece and a child’s long hair. While the maximum volume is specified at 85 decibels, it tends to be on the quieter side of the audio spectrum. This feature will be appreciated by parents who are concerned about protecting their children’s hearing. The speakers can be easily removed, and the headband can be washed in a machine for convenience.

7. JVC HA-KD5 Tiny Phones

The JVC Tiny Phones (HA-KD5) are constructed with good craftsmanship and feature comfortable soft padding that also helps to minimize noise leakage. The headband is wide and appears sturdy. The volume limiter set at 85dB is effective, offering a slightly louder volume than the Griffin MyPhones but still within an acceptable range compared to other models tested.

The headphone cord measures 0.8m, which is suitable for use with laptops, tablets, and phones, but it may require an extender if used for TV viewing.

Ensuring these headphones are worn correctly for optimal comfort is important. There are markings indicating the right (R) and left (L) sides, but if your child has difficulty distinguishing between left and right, they may complain if the headphones are mistakenly worn the wrong way around. However, this could serve as a learning opportunity for them to differentiate between left and right.

The headphones are not excessively small and should fit most children’s heads, so the name might inaccurately suggest that they are only suitable for very young kids, which may discourage some parents from considering them.

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Smartphones – Top 10 Best Smartphones (2023)

Smartphones – Top 10 Best Smartphones (2023)

Are you searching for a smartphone that meets your specific requirements, including camera quality, battery life, design, specifications, and price? Through extensive research, we have identified and compiled a list of the top 10 smartphones that excel in these areas and more.
While these recommendations may not be suitable for everyone, we encourage you to explore the details of each device and make an informed decision. Take a look at the following smartphones and choose the one that best suits your needs.

Top 10 Best Smartphones 2023

Here are the top smartphone recommendations for you.

1. Google Pixel 7

The Google Pixel 7 stands out as an exceptional smartphone with its impressive features. Priced at $599/£599/€649, it offers tremendous value. Unlike the upcoming iPhone 14 or Galaxy S23 models, the Google Pixel 7 presents a stunning 6.3-inch 90Hz OLED display, providing a smooth viewing experience. It operates on the bright and customizable Android 13 software, delivering a premium user interface. The phone boasts a sleek glass finish with wireless charging capabilities, adding a touch of elegance.
One of the standout features of the Google Pixel 7 is its exceptional camera system. Equipped with a 50MP sensor and powered by Google’s top-level photo processing, the main camera produces stunning photos in any setting. It has earned its reputation as the best point-and-shoot phone camera available.
The Google Pixel 7 also offers convenient features, such as built-in software that allows you to easily remove unwanted elements from your photos. It also includes a call-holding feature for added convenience. However, it’s worth noting that the device may experience slower charging compared to some other models. The face unlock feature on the Google Pixel 7 is basic, providing a straightforward approach to unlocking your phone.

2. iPhone 14 Pro

When it comes to Apple phones, they are known for their quality, but if you want a truly dynamic and impressive experience, the iPhone 14 Pro is the one to consider. It is the first iPhone to feature an always-on display, offering convenience and accessibility at a glance. The phone also excels in the camera department, with phenomenal capabilities. It boasts a 48MP sensor, a 3x telephoto lens, and a capable ultrawide lens, allowing for impressive photography and zooming capabilities.
Furthermore, Apple has introduced the long-awaited always-on display feature, which intelligently dims the lock screen without compromising battery life. In our testing, this feature performed exceptionally well. While the iPhone 14 Pro may not be a significant upgrade from the previous iPhone 13 Pro, if you are coming from a three or four-year-old device, the advancements will make it feel like a leap into the future.
It’s important to note that the battery life of the iPhone 14 Pro is similar to its predecessor, the 13 Pro. Additionally, the charging speed is not particularly fast. Furthermore, it’s worth mentioning that the iPhone 14 Pro comes with a higher price tag, especially in the UK.

3. Samsung Galaxy S23 Ultra

One of the standout features of the Galaxy S23 Ultra is its exceptional screen, which is unrivalled by other phones. It offers the best display quality, making it perfect for any app or activity, particularly for watching videos and multimedia content.
When it comes to the camera, the 200MP main camera is truly outstanding. It captures images with slightly saturated colours that provide a vibrant and eye-catching effect. While the colours may appear more pronounced than in real life, the overall image quality is superb. The phone also offers the versatility of an ultrawide lens and two separate optical telephoto lenses, at 3x and 10x magnification, all of which deliver excellent results.
However, it’s worth mentioning that the selfie camera on the Galaxy S23 Ultra is not as impressive as its rear cameras. Additionally, the charging speed of the device is limited to 45W, which may not be as fast as some other smartphones on the market.

4. Google Pixel 7a

Priced at $499/£449/€509, the Pixel 7a offers excellent value for money, as it delivers a comparable experience to the higher-priced Pixel 7 Pro at $899/£849/€899. With its smaller 6.1-inch display, the Pixel 7a is more compact and convenient for one-handed use and portability, distinguishing it from the larger phones in its category. It boasts the same powerful Tensor G2 chipset found in the Pixel 7 and 7 Pro.
The standout feature of the Pixel 7a is its exceptional 64MP main camera. It captures still images with remarkable quality, surpassing other phones in its price range and rivalling even more expensive models. The phone offers a choice of playful blue and coral colours, in addition to the classic white and black options.
It’s worth noting that the charging speed of the Pixel 7a is relatively slow, and our testing revealed some unreliability with wireless charging functionality. However, if you prioritize having a reliable Android phone with five years of software support, alongside a versatile camera that excels in all conditions, the Pixel 7a is an excellent choice. It strikes a balance as a well-rounded device with a standout camera, making it an attractive option for users seeking a compelling smartphone experience.

5. OnePlus 11

OnePlus has achieved an impressive balance with the OnePlus 11, offering a feature-rich premium smartphone at an attractive price point of $699/£729/€849. The device excels in many areas, with only a couple of notable omissions: wireless charging and full waterproofing (although the latter is more of a disappointment than the former).
The OnePlus 11 delivers remarkable speed and performance, thanks to its powerful hardware. It boasts an excellent display, ensuring vibrant visuals and an immersive viewing experience. The phone’s camera setup is strong, highlighted by a highly capable 50MP main lens. Furthermore, users can enjoy the benefits of four years of Android updates and five years of security updates, providing long-term software support.
Despite featuring a large 6.7-inch screen, the OnePlus 11 maintains a slim and elegant profile, distinguishing it from other oversized smartphones. Two appealing options are available: a glossy green model and a black version with a matte, silk-like finish on the back glass. While the latter option resists fingerprints effectively, it should be noted that the phone can be quite slippery.

6. iPhone 14

The iPhone 14 may not be everyone’s first choice, but it is a reliable smartphone that offers impressive performance, a good dual camera system, and outstanding battery life. Compared to the Pro version, it comes at a lower cost, making it an attractive option for many.
As expected from Apple, the build quality of the iPhone 14 is exceptional, and its iOS software is known for its stability. Users can expect software updates for approximately five years, and the convenience of getting repairs done at any Apple Store. If you prefer a larger screen and extended battery life, the iPhone 14 Plus is an alternative, but we find the smaller model to be more appealing.
One notable feature of the iPhone 14 is its ability to detect car crashes, providing an added layer of safety. However, it is important to note that the device faces challenges with slow charging and lacks the capability for shooting raw photos. Nonetheless, if you value performance, reliability, and a well-rounded smartphone experience, the iPhone 14 is a solid choice.

7. Samsung Galaxy Z Flip 4

Samsung has effectively addressed the shortcomings of the Z Flip 3, such as its poor battery life and average camera performance, in the Z Flip 4, making it a phone that can last all day and boasts the same high-quality main and ultrawide cameras found in the Galaxy S22 and S22 Plus.
With a price comparable to other flagship smartphones, the Z Flip 4 is currently the top choice among foldable phones. While concerns about the display’s durability and crease persist, Samsung claims that the Flip can endure at least 200,000 open and close motions, equivalent to approximately five years of average usage.
The improved battery life is likely attributed to the Snapdragon 8+ Gen 1 chipset, which offers enhanced energy efficiency, eliminating the need to charge the Flip halfway through the day. The 8GB RAM provided is more than sufficient, although opting for 256GB of storage might be worth considering. Additionally, the side-mounted fingerprint sensor is a welcome feature.
Essentially, the Z Flip 4 can be seen as an S22 with a superior processor that folds down to half its size. It presents a compelling option and is among the best phones available overall.

8. Motorola Moto G62

The Moto G62 is an affordable smartphone that offers 5G connectivity and impressive battery life.
Priced below £200, this handset provides all the essential features, including a reliable 120Hz screen and a clean and user-friendly Android software. It also boasts a 50Mp primary camera, which is impressive considering its price point, although it lacks stabilization technology, requiring users to have a steady hand. The ultrawide and macro lenses, however, are not particularly noteworthy.
In terms of performance, it falls short of fully utilizing the 120Hz screen refresh rate. Nonetheless, the Moto G62 remains a budget-friendly option that offers 5G capability and commendable battery life.

9. Samsung Galaxy S23 Plus

The Galaxy S23 Plus is a fantastic option for those seeking a Samsung phone that isn’t overly large like the S23 Ultra yet still offers a sizable display, impressive battery life, and the best software support in the Android realm with a five-year guarantee.
During testing, we found the phone to perform exceptionally well, featuring three capable rear camera lenses without the added bulk often seen in triple-camera setups. While the design may appear somewhat plain, once you protect it with a case, you won’t mind. Samsung’s OneUI software requires some customization to suit your preferences, but it offers more flexibility compared to Google’s version of Android found on Pixel phones.
Constructed with premium materials such as aluminium and glass, the phone exudes a high-quality feel. The display is truly outstanding, delivering excellent visibility even in outdoor settings. If the only concern is the device’s size, there’s also a regular Galaxy S23 variant available with a smaller display.

10. Xiaomi 13 Pro

This phone offers exceptional performance, impressive battery life, and remarkable 120W charging capabilities.

It stands out as one of the first smartphones available outside of China to feature a 1 camera sensor, a technology that is expected to elevate smartphone photography in the coming years. Xiaomi has managed to incorporate this advanced technology early on.

In our tests, the larger sensor area captures more light, resulting in outstanding low-light photography and an unprecedented level of detail not typically seen on smaller sensors. Additionally, the device boasts a capable 50Mp telephoto sensor and a 50Mp ultrawide lens, forming a formidable camera setup despite the noticeable camera bump. However, it should be noted that this phone comes with a high price tag.

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