Gadgethead Christmas 2025

2025

MUSIC DISCOVERY

Add songs you hear on the radio straight to a Spotify playlist by the touch of a button

Logitech G522 LIGHTSPEED

Wireless Gaming Headset

Edifier ES850NB Wireless Noise

Cancelling Over-Ear Headphones

iFi UP Travel

MAJORITY Pulse 1

Bluetooth Party Speaker

Poly Voyager Surround 80 C Headphones

HyperX QuadCast 2 USB Microphone

Skullcandy Method 360 ANC Earbuds

RoadieCoach

DataLocker DLGO Hardware

Encrypted USB

Hexcal Heavy Duty Monitor Arm

STM Goods Origin Laptop Sleeve

Logitech Flip Folio

Astro Bot Phone and Tech Holder

Krafted Couch

Canyon Wireless Mouse MW-04

TIDRADIO TD-H3 Plus Ham GMRS Radio

HyperX Alloy Rise 75 Wireless

Gaming Keyboard

HyperX Pulsefire Saga Pro Wireless

Customisable Gaming Mouse

EPOMAKER RT85 Mechanical Keyboard

EPOMAKER CarbonX Mouse

Paleblue USB-C Rechargeable Batteries

Playmobil SKY TRAILS Starter Kit

Pad Creator Instant Print Tablet

So Slime Yummy Twist and Slime Mixer Set

So Bomb Hand Spa & Nail Salon

myFirst Instant Print Camera Masters of Crime: Vendetta

HOUSEHOLD BABY GADGETS OUTDOOR AUDIO VEHICLE TOYS/GAMES CONTENTS

Robotic Jellyfish Nightlight Kit

Blade & Rose Christmas Collection

BabyBjörn Baby Carrier Mini

Mamas and Papas Christmas Collection

Mamas and Papas Christmas Stocking

Tracklements Cracking Christmas Collection Gift Pack

12 Days of Tracklements Gift Pack

HORL 3 Cruise Knife Sharpener

WACACO Pixapresso

Microplane Container Grater

YETI Rambler 12oz Travel Bottle

Melitta Look V Perfection

Filter Coffee Machine

Willow Starter Pack

Bamix DeLuxe Hand Blender

TCP Smart WiFi Glass Panel Heater

TCP Smart WiFi Dehumidifier

TCP Smart WiFi Wall Heater

GEODESIS Boxed Candle Trio: Agar Wood, Amber and Balsam Fir

Stanley Aerolight IceFlow

Flip Straw 2.0 Bottle

OOFOS Mens OOAH Sport Slide Sandal

YETI Panga 75L Waterproof Duffel

Felco 703W Winter Gloves

Jetboil Flash 1.0L

Nite Ize Radiant Starlit Rechargeable Lanterns and String Light

Sol Escape Bivvy

Miofive Dash Cam MiniS

Miofive Mirror1 Dash Camera

Vue Cam

G522 LIGHTSPEED WIRELESS GAMING HEADSET

£139.00

https://www.logitechg.com/en-gb/shop/p/ g522-lightspeed

GAMING HAS NEVER SOUNDED SO GOOD WITH THE LOGITECH G522 LIGHTSPEED WIRELESS GAMING HEADSET, DESIGNED TO DELIVER UNRIVALLED SOUND PERFORMANCE FOR AN IMMERSIVE GAMING EXPERIENCE. THE HEADSET BUILDS UPON THE LEGENDARY G5 SERIES BY LOGITECH, PRODUCING A HEADSET WITH DYNAMIC LIGHTING, A TOP-NOTCH MICROPHONE AND ALL-AROUND DETAILED SOUND.

Straight out of the box, the G522 LIGHTSPEED Wireless Gaming Headset is super sleek in the black colourway we got to test out. When turned off, the only colourful part of the entire headset is the purple suspension band, which sits across the top of your head. However, once turned on, the headphones come to life with each ear cup featuring dynamic RGB lighting. The recessed lighting on each ear cup is Logitech’s LIGHTSYNC RGB, which delivers a total of 8 customisable lighting zones, offering 16.8 million colours to choose from to ensure that the entire headset suits your gaming set-up and style.

Aside from the great aesthetics of the G522 LIGHTSPEED Wireless Gaming Headset, the sound power and clarity behind them is super impressive. The headset features synchronised Pro-G audio drivers, which are designed to capture the full soundscape of a game. This ensures that every layer of sound is heard clearly, from

the game’s soundtrack to any dialogue and even live chats with your friends. One of the ways it is able to achieve this is through the isolated modules, which ensure that the headset has more control of the sound to give better spatial accuracy and deliver a better audio experience. The overall sound experience is excellent and makes the perfect addition to any gaming session to ensure you never miss a sound that could cost you the game!

One of the best parts about gaming online is being able to play and chat with your friends at the same time, and with the G522 LIGHTSPEED Wireless Gaming Headset, this has never been easier with the attached microphone. The microphone is regarded as the best-inclass microphone for a gaming headset, thanks to its BLUEVOICE technology and

crystal clear 48kHZ voice clarity. These paired together deliver the microphone with exceptional quality, offering the highest bandwidth microphone you can get in the gaming headset market. To ensure every word is crystal clear, you can customise and tune your microphone to ensure you are always heard clearly –an essential for team games! However, when you don’t want to be heard or just don’t need a microphone, it can easily be removed or muted. I like that when you’ve muted yourself, the tip of the microphone has a red light to remind you that you’re muted before you start trying to talk and realise no one can hear you. In terms of the overall construction, I like how lightweight the headphones are, with the controls neatly stored on the left ear cup. Each ear cup feels comfortable on the ears, made from

memory foam, whilst the suspension headband features a unique ridged design to help with better airflow during long gaming sessions. My only slight complaint is that the headset headband is not adjustable. I often like to expand my headphones to get the perfect fit on my head, and I was sad to see this was not a feature on the G522 LIGHTSPEED Wireless Gaming Headset. Whilst the suspension band can be adjusted and the general fit is fine, I would have liked to see the headband have a little adjustability, to make the entire fit of the headset just that little more customisable.

For connectivity, the headset is great, featuring tri-mode connectivity where you can seamlessly connect the headphones three different ways, including via the LIGHTSPED dongle, which you can put into your console or PC, or via Bluetooth or wired connection. Once connected, you can then customise the headphones using G HUB and G MOBILE to fully adjust any settings, to synchronise your lights and personalise all the sound levels of the headset until it’s exactly how you like it and primed for your style of gaming. Overall, the Logitech G522 LIGHTSPEED Wireless Gaming Headset is a great option for the avid gamer in your life, to deliver top-quality sound to support immersive gameplay, and a leading microphone, to help you connect and strategise with your friends clearly.

Priced under £150, the headset is a great present option this festive season for the gamer in your life to help them take their gaming set-up to the next level.

PROS:

- Superior sound quality with synced audio and isolated modules

- Comfortable and lightweight design that is good for long gaming sessions

- Dynamic lighting options to suit your gaming set-up and style

- Customisable to deliver the most immersive gaming experience possible

CONS:

- I would have liked the headband to be adjustable for further customisation and to get an even more comfortable fit

EDIFIER ES850NB WIRELESS NOISE CANCELLING OVER-EAR HEADPHONES

£149.99 https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B0F1FTB9WF/ ref=twister_B0FN8HNS29

EVERY TIME I TEST OUT A PAIR OF EARBUDS, HEADPHONES OR SPEAKERS FROM EDIFIER, I’M ALWAYS BLOWN AWAY WITH THE QUALITY AND OVERALL SOUND EXPERIENCE THAT THEY DELIVER, AND THE ES850NB WIRELESS NOISE CANCELLING OVER-EAR HEADPHONES ARE NO EXCEPTION. BUILT WITH COMFORT AND LONG-WEARING IN MIND, THE HEADPHONES DELIVER A DYNAMIC SOUND, A GREAT LEVEL OF NOISE CANCELLATION AND HAVE A BATTERY LIFE THAT IS NOTHING BUT REMARKABLE. IF YOU’RE LOOKING FOR A PAIR OF NOISE-CANCELLING HEADPHONES TO TREAT YOURSELF, OR A LOVED ONE, THIS FESTIVE SEASON, THEN LOOK NO FURTHER; THE EDIFIER ES850NB WIRELESS HEADPHONES HAVE YOU COVERED!

The Edifier ES850NB Wireless Headphones we got to review came in a super cute baby pink colourway, with the headband and ear cups all in the same pink, giving a monochromatic look to the headphones. The pink adds a lovely, pretty touch to the headphones, and with baby pink currently being very on trend, they’re a stylish piece as well as a great set of headphones. The overall construction feels super secure, while also offering a little flexibility to help you get the most comfortable and secure fit on your head. To ensure the headphones are comfortable for all-day wear, they’ve been designed to be super lightweight, avoiding

pressure on your ears and head, while featuring memory foam ear cups for added comfort. The headphones feel great, and even after wearing them for many hours, they remain comfortable. The sound quality is where Edifier truly shine, and the ES850NB Wireless Noise Cancelling Over-Ear Headphones are really impressive. The Headphones feature 40mm drivers, which have titanium-coated composite diaphragms designed to deliver a dynamic sound where the highest highs and lowest lows can easily be heard. However, the sound goes one step further, and even features three

pre-set EQ modes, including music mode, spatial sound and game mode. These help enhance the sound of the headphones based on your usage, ensuring every music note is rich and every sound in your game is heard in detail. However, you can even adjust these further using the Edifier ConneX App or Edifier TempoHub, where you can customise everything from the EQ settings to the sound effects, switches, and control settings to your exact preferences. This ensures that every listening experience is personalised to you, supported by Edifier’s premium audio performance.

One of the things I was most excited about with the Edifier ES850NB Headphones is the noise cancellation. The headphones feature hybrid active noise cancellation (ANC), which is paired with the over-ear passive isolation design of the ear cups to deliver up to -45dB of ambient noise. This is perfect for blocking out the chatter and coffee machine in the office, or the sound of traffic on your morning commute. In fact, the headphones feature three ANC modes with high noise cancellation for flights and commuting, medium noise cancellation for office work and wind reduction to make them perfect for using on a run or in particularly windy weather. The overall experience with the ANC is very good, and they do cut out a significant portion of the background noise. Whilst super loud noises you can still hear, the general need to remove background noise is good with the Edifier ES850NB Headphones.

Arguably, one of the most impressive features of the Edifier ES850NB Wireless Headphones is its long battery life. The headphones boast to offer up to 92 hours of battery life with ANC off, and 53 hours with ANC on. This makes the headphones perfect for a whole week of wearing without needing to recharge them. However, even when you do need to recharge the headphones, they support fast charging, and in just 15 minutes, you can get close to 8 hours of ANC battery life, and around 12 hours with ANC off. This impressive battery life is one of the big benefits of the headphones,

as you never have to worry about them running out of charge midlistening session. Instead, you can charge your headphones at the start of the week, and they’re ready to support you throughout your weekly activities.

The headphones can be connected to two devices at once via Bluetooth, allowing you to seamlessly switch between devices, and support LDAC high-resolution wireless audio that maintains audio quality even over Bluetooth. However, you can also use the headphones via a wired connection, thanks to the included USB-C to USB-A wire in the box, for whatever your connection preference is. The controls for the headphones sit on the ear cup, making switching between songs, increasing the volume and adjusting the ANC super easy. Plus, the Edifier ES850NB feature a cool control function to pause your music for conversations.

To pause your music or audio, you just touch and hold the right ear cup, and when you remove your hand, your music will play again. This is a super fun feature, and a great addition for office work to ensure you can still communicate with your team without having to remove your headphones every time someone wants to talk!

Overall, I was super impressed with the Edifier ES850NB Wireless Noise Cancelling OverEar Headphones. From the lovely colourway and construction to the top-quality sound quality, impressive ANC and long battery life, the headphones are a great allaround option that ensures every listening experience is top quality. This would make the perfect gift this Christmas for any music lover, especially as an upgraded headphone option that brings together all the best of what Edifier has to offer in a stylish and comfortable headset.

PROS:

- Comfortable construction for long wearing

- Impressively long battery life

- Good level of ANC with the option to suit your environment

- Adjustable EQ via the Edifier ConneX App

- Innovative and easy-to-use controls

https://ifi-audio.com/products/up-travel

AUDIO

IFI UP TRAVEL

BUILDING ON IFI AUDIO’S AWARD-WINNING HI-FI AUDIO TECHNOLOGY, THE COMPANY HAS RELEASED THE UP TRAVEL HI-RES BLUETOOTH TRANSMITTER AND RECEIVER TO ELEVATE YOUR AUDIO EXPERIENCE FROM PLANE TO CAR. IFI AUDIO KNOW THAT TRAVELLING IS HARD ENOUGH AS IT IS, AND SO THE UP TRAVEL IS A NIFTY LITTLE AUDIO COMPANION DESIGNED TO GIVE A CINEMA FEEL TO THE FILMS YOU WATCH ON THE PLANE, OR OPTIMISE YOUR CAR’S SOUNDS SYSTEM TO ENSURE THAT NO MATTER WHERE YOU GO OR HOW YOU GET THERE, YOU’LL ALWAYS BE ACCOMPANIED BY TOP QUALITY AUDIO EXPERIENCES.

One of the first things I noticed about the UP Travel is that it is remarkably small and compact, making it the perfect size for throwing in your pocket or bag to take with you on the go. This design means it’s easy to take with you on the plane, or on a long road trip, without it taking up any packing space at all! Plus, the compact unit is designed to remove the need for adapters and cables, offering an all-in-one transmitter and receiver that brings high-resolution sound via Bluetooth connectivity everywhere you need it. Thus, it’s a remarkably simple yet effective little gadget to have, especially if you spend a lot of time on long-haul flights or long car journeys.

One of the main benefits of the UP Travel is that it can be plugged into in-flight entertainment screens, and then you can connect your wireless headphones to the device. This means you don’t need to worry about bringing wired headphones that are compatible with the screen, and you can instead enjoy films with the comfort of your favourite wireless headphones, all thanks to the UP Travel. However, the UP Travel doesn’t just connect you to the screen for audio; it optimises the audio to the highest quality possible, so you always get great sound. However, one of my favourite things about the UP Travel is that not only does it provide great audio for you, but two pairs of headphones can be simultaneously paired to provide both you and a friend with the same top-quality audio at the same time. This also means you don’t need to be tethered to each other using a single pair of wired earphones! Aside from use in flights, the UP Travel also works when connecting to a laptop or PC to provide a top-quality wireless audio output so you can stream your favourite shows or music with the best audio possible, and without disturbing anyone else!

However, the UP Travel doesn’t just offer a transmitter function. Instead, the UP Travel is also a receiver and so can be plugged directly into your car’s AUX input to allow you to stream your favourite songs directly to your car. These will then be optimised by the UP Travel to deliver the best sound quality from your car, delivering high-resolution audio to support long road trips so you can sing car karaoke to your heart’s content, supported by the top-quality audio of the UP Travel. Plus, should you get a call, the UP Travel also has a built-in microphone with noise suppression technology, which allows you to have crystal clear hands-free calls, so both ends of the line experience the same great audio quality.

To support long-haul flights or road trips, I was super glad to see that the UP Travel comes with up to 10 hours of battery life, which is ideal for most long flights or road trips. Therefore, the UP travel makes the perfect travelling companion to pop in your carry-on bag or in your pocket to optimise audio wherever you go. Plus, the UP Travel is compatible with the iFi Nexis App, which allows you to personalise the settings of the UP Travel and keep the device up to date with the latest firmware to ensure it always functions at its best.

Overall, if you travel often, whether by car or on flights, the UP Travel is essential to ensure your music is always top quality and you can stay connected and comfortable. I love that the UP Travel can be used as both a transmitter and receiver, ensuring you do not need a whole array of adapters and instead can just use this one compact device.

PROS:

- Compact pocket-sized device that is great for travelling

- Both a transmitter and receiver for a wide variety of uses

- Automatically prioritises the highest quality audio for the best sound possible

- Dual connectivity, which is great for watching films with another person

CONS:

- The UP Travel is quite pricey and is more of an investment in your audio quality, but if you travel often or are looking for a good device to replace multiple adapters and cables for superior sound quality, it’s a worthwhile investment

AUDIO

MAJORITY PULSE 1 BLUETOOTH PARTY SPEAKER

£99.99

https://www.currys.co.uk/products/majority-pulse-1- bluetooth-party-speaker-black-10283837.html

IT’S PARTY SEASON, AND THAT CALLS FOR ONE THING: A GREAT PARTY SPEAKER. THERE’S NOTHING WORSE THAN HAVING A GROUP OF FRIENDS OR FAMILY OVER, AND YOU’RE TRYING TO SET THE FESTIVE MOOD WITH YOUR BEST CHRISTMAS PLAYLIST, BUT IT CAN’T BE HEARD OVER EVERYONE DUE TO YOUR SMALL SPEAKER THAT SOUNDS PRETTY NAFF IN A LARGE ROOM. THIS IS WHERE MAJORITY COMES IN AS A LEADING AUDIO BRAND PROVIDING TOP SOUND EXPERIENCES ACROSS A RANGE OF INNOVATIVE AND HIGH-TECH PRODUCTS. WE GOT TO TEST OUT THE MAJORITY PULSE 1 BLUETOOTH PARTY SPEAKER THAT BRINGS THE SOUND, LOOKS AND POWER TO SUPPORT ANY EVENT. .

Straight out of the box, the Pulse 1 Speaker is impressive, standing just over 30cm in height. The front of the speaker features a large MAJORITY logo, and at the top, there is a small screen showing the connection and power. The top of the speaker has volume buttons, as well as the power button, track skip buttons and even the Bass Boost mode. The top buttons make the speaker super easy to manually control; however, you can also adjust the volume using your phone if connected via Bluetooth. I love that from the very first second you turn on the speaker, the front illuminates with rainbow lights that pulse with your music for an added house party feel when in use.

In terms of connection, the Pulse 1 Speaker supports Bluetooth, so you can easily connect the speaker to your phone to access your favourite playlists with ease. However, you can also plug your device directly into the speaker via the aux cord

or use a microSD card preloaded with your chosen tracks for more versatile listening options. Plus, the speaker can also be linked with a second speaker via Bluetooth for True Wireless Stereo (TWS) sound, so you can fill not just one room but an entire event with the Majority Pulse Speaker’s sound. Personally, one speaker is more than enough for any event I would host, with the sound booming through your room, helping to maintain the perfect mood and keep the party going.

To deliver such a powerful sound, the Pulse 1 Speaker has a 6.5” driver and 1.5” tweeter, which is designed to fill your space with 80W of sound. This produces a detailed but powerful audio experience, where even as the volume level rises, the quality of the audio is not diminished. Instead, the dynamic sound ensures every high note is clear, and the bass is booming. However, if the standard bass is not enough, you can hit the bass boost button on top of the speaker, which will have your

floorboards shaking - perfect for those songs with a good beat drop. I was super impressed with the sound quality, and whether listening to chill playlists or much heavier drum and bass tracks, the speaker delivered superior sound, deftly adapting to every beat. When it comes to music, it’s hard to play a classic party anthem without someone screaming the words, and Majority knows this and so has included a microphone with the Pulse 1 Speaker. The microphone comes with the connecting wire and just needs to be plugged into the back of the speaker via the microphone port, and you can sing to your heart’s content while your music is still playing in the background via Bluetooth. The microphone is of average quality, allowing you to be heard with a decent level of clarity; however, it’s not winning any awards for being the most high-definition microphone on the market. Therefore, for its intended purpose, the microphone is absolutely perfect – and let’s be honest, we don’t always need to hear other people’s karaoke voices that well!

To ensure that the speaker can keep your music pumping all night long, the Pulse 1 Party Speaker comes with an impressive 10-hour battery life, so you never miss a beat midevent. Plus, the speaker can still be used whilst charging, so you don’t have to worry about any awkward silences whilst recharging!

Overall, if you love to throw a house party or are looking for a great speaker to take your event to the next level, the Majority Pulse 1 Bluetooth Party Speaker is a great all-around speaker option that delivers excellent sound quality, a powerful bass, and even looks the part with the rainbow lights pulsing in time with your music. If you have a Christmas or New Year’s Eve party on the horizon, this would make the perfect addition to keep the festive spirit high and maybe even encourage a little bit of karaoke late into the night!

PROS:

- Dynamic lighting that pulses with music for an added party speaker feel

- Impressive sound quality

- Easy connection via Bluetooth, Aux or SD Card – Bluetooth automatically connects once paired

- Affordable price point for a large-sized speaker that can fill a room

CONS:

- The microphone isn’t the best quality, but for the price and the general use of the speaker, this doesn’t seem to be too much of an issue unless used solely for event communication and not for the speaker’s sound

POLY VOYAGER SURROUND

80 UC HEADSET

£249.49

https://www.hp.com/gb-en/shop/product.

aspx?id=8H2G3AA&opt=&sel=ACC

THE POLY VOYAGER SURROUND 80 UC HEADSET IS DESIGNED TO DELIVER COMFORT AND GREAT SOUND EXPERIENCES TO HELP YOU STAY PRODUCTIVE, WHETHER YOU’RE WORKING FROM THE OFFICE OR FROM A COFFEE SHOP. WITH DYNAMIC DRIVERS TO DELIVER GREAT SOUND, AND A PLETHORA OF MICROPHONES FOR CALLS AND ANC, THE POLY VOYAGER SURROUND 80 US HEADSET IS A GREAT HEADSET, DESIGNED TO HELP YOU STAY FOCUSED WITH HOURS OF GREAT AUDIO QUALITY. .

When you first open the box for the Poly Voyager Surround 80 UC Headset, you are met with the travel carry case, which has a hard shell to protect your headphones. Inside, the headphones are made from carbon fibre, with metal extenders for each side. The inside of the ear cups and headband are covered in a lovely leatherlook material, which is cushioned to provide a comfortable feel across your ears and head whilst wearing. The ear cups provide a wide range of movement, which allows you to perfectly adjust and manoeuvre each ear cup to sit over your ear comfortably. I like the overall sleek and minimalist design the headset offers, whilst still being super comfortable to wear for many hours at a time. However, arguably the most important thing when it comes to headphones is the sound they put out, and the Poly Voyager

Surround 80 UC Headset is impressive. The headphones feature 40 mm drivers that help deliver a high-quality and rich sound, perfect for both calls and listening to music. This high-quality audio, when paired with the over-ear design, allows you to create your own personal bubble to stay focused and productive. However, with calls being one of the central focuses when it comes to the design of the Poly Voyager 80 UC Headset, the audio quality for calls is top-notch, reinforced by 6 builtin boomless microphones that ensure both ends of the call are clear. In fact, the headset is certified to work with

the Microsoft Teams App, and so Poly has designed the headphones with an instant access button to Microsoft Teams built into the ear cup. This control ensures you can get straight into your calls with ease and remain productive during the day. Alongside the Microsoft Teams instant access button, the headphones also feature innovative touch controls which allow you to pause, play, adjust your volume and change tracks with a simple tap or swipe of your finger across the ear cup. These controls are super intuitive to use, with a tap pausing and playing your music, swipes up and down

to change the volume, and then swipes back and forth to change tracks forward and back. This adds a lovely premium touch to the headphones and ensures you don’t need to control your audio via your phone or computer, where you could easily get distracted. Instead, you tap or swipe and can continue to be productive and focused.

I like that the headphones feature active noise cancellation (ANC) to help maintain a productive working bubble. The headphones feature an adaptive ANC that utilises an additional 4 microphones to help adjust the level of noise cancellation needed in response to external noise. This means that the headphones are designed to help keep outside noise out, and your music or calls clear. This is perfect for particularly noisy offices, or even for using whilst commuting or travelling. I was super impressed with the level of noise cancellation, and if you’re someone who is easily distracted, these are a brilliant choice to block the world out and help you focus on whatever task you need to do.

Furthermore, to help you stay productive, the headphones feature a good battery life of up to 24 hours for listening to music and 21 hours for calls. This means that you never have to worry about recharging mid-way through the day and instead can stay productive for calls and workflow. However, when you do need to charge, the headphones come with a USB-C to USB-A charging cable and a USB-C to 3.5mm audio cable, so you can plug

these into your pc to charge and stay connected.

Overall, the Poly Voyager Surround 80 UC Headset provides a premium headphone experience that is focused on helping you stay productive. These would be the perfect gift for someone who works from home and attends a lot of Microsoft Teams meetings to help enhance their set-up and ensure that they have a pair of headphones designed to ensure they can be heard clearly over calls, whilst also offering great sound quality for music. The adaptive ANC is a nice touch and means that the headphones can even be used away from the office for casual everyday music listening, for when you need a peaceful bubble.

PROS:

- Carbon fibre design that is lightweight but super comfortable to wear

- Intuitive touch and swipe controls for easy navigation without needing your phone

- Adaptive ANC to block out the noise around you easily

- 6 built-in microphones to ensure calls are clear and professional

CONS:

- Designed with Microsoft Teams in mind, so they may not be as ideal if you don’t use this for calls, as the instant access button will not be super useful for you – but as a generally good set of headphones, which are enhanced for calls, it’s still a great allaround headset

AUDIO

HYPERX QUADCAST 2 USB MICROPHONE

£124.99

https://uk.hyperx.com/products/hyperx-quadcast-2-

usb-microphone?variant=55851907088768

DESIGNED FOR STREAMERS, THE HYPERX QUADCAST 2 USB MICROPHONE BRINGS TOGETHER ALL THE THINGS FANS LOVED ABOUT THE ORIGINAL QUADCAST, BUT NOW WITH NEW AND INNOVATIVE FEATURES TO ENHANCE YOUR VOICE RECORDINGS AND ENSURE YOU ARE HEARD IN CRYSTAL CLEAR QUALITY.

The HyperX QuadCast USB Microphone features a new full aluminium silhouette providing a sleek and professional look to the entire microphone setup. The colourway we got to test out was in the ‘Frost’ colour, which is a lovely pale grey colour, with light blue accents. The overall look of the microphone is super sleek, and with the light blue and grey colourway, it would easily fit into many set-ups.

The weighty aluminium shock mount and desktop stand provide a sturdy base for the microphone to sit, whilst ensuring that even if your desk gets knocked, the microphone won’t pick up any of this noise during recordings. This helps produce crystal clear recordings that will help you connect to your audience or chat with your friends without disruptions. However, if you prefer a different set-up (for example, with a boom arm), the microphone can be detached from the stand thanks to the spring-loaded pins and connected to other setups.

One of the most important things about the HyperX QuadCast 2 is how recorded audio sounds, and the microphone is impressive, delivering a studio-quality recording. The microphone offers 24-bit 96kHz recording, which ensures every stream or podcast has super clear and high-quality audio. However, even outside of the content world, the microphone is excellent for online calls and meetings, adding a touch of professionalism not only because of the look of the microphone, but also due to the clarity of the audio. Therefore, even if you aren’t a huge gamer, the microphone is an excellent choice for those working from home, looking for a great microphone for online meetings and business calls.

For recording, the HyperX QuadCast 2 has 4 selectable polar patterns, which allow you to adjust the microphone’s directionality so you can capture the best audio possible. This includes cardioid, omnidirectional, bi-directional or stereo patterns, which ensure you can focus the microphone on your voice, or multiple voices in a podcast set-up, to ensure every voice and sound is heard in detail. These modes

can be changed via the multi-function knob on the front of the microphone. As you change between each mode, the top of the microphone will illuminate with different symbols around the top ring for easy identification of which polar pattern you are using. This makes changing patterns mid-stream or game super easy, to ensure you are always heard. Plus, to mute the microphone, you just tap the top of the QuadCast 2 and it will illuminate to show you it is paused. This helps to quickly mute your microphone when needed, but ensure you don’t forget to unmute when you want to speak again!

This multi-functional knob on the front was developed from feedback from fans of the QuadCast, to provide an allin-one control for many aspects of the microphone. The multi-function knob offers you the choice between microphone gain, playback volume and microphone monitoring volume, as well as to switch polar patterns. This is great as it provides even greater control over the microphone to ensure every second sounds exactly how you want it. Furthermore, the microphone can even be further customised via HyperX NGENUITY software, which allows you to fully tweak the microphone’s audio settings and lighting to get it to sound and operate exactly how you’d like.

From the aesthetics, to the clear sound quality, and range of functional features to make using the microphone super easy, the HyperX QuadCast 2 USB Microphone is the perfect companion for gaming, streaming, podcasts, meetings and business calls. The microphone adds a level of clarity that is perfectly designed for gaming, supported by a unique shockproof design to ensure only the best audio is produced.

PROS:

- Sleek and sturdy microphone build that is shock-proof

- Easy to control with a multifunctional knob

- Can be customised via the NGENUITY App for performance suited to your needs

CONS:

- I’d have liked to be able to change the colour of the microphone’s lights to better suit my set-up – you can change the brightness or have a wave pattern across it, but I’d like to be able to change the colour for a more cohesive look with my existing set up

£99.99

https://www.skullcandy.co.uk/products/ method-360-anc-noise-canceling-earbuds

SKULLCANDY METHOD 360 ANC EARBUDS

IF YOU DON’T KNOW WHAT TO GET SOMEONE FOR CHRISTMAS, ONE OF MY MAIN RECOMMENDATIONS IS TO GET THEM A GREAT PAIR OF HEADPHONES OR EARBUDS. FOR THIS, SKULLCANDY ARE A GREAT GOTO BRAND, OFFERING HIGH-QUALITY AUDIO EXPERIENCES SUPPORTED BY AFFORDABLE PRICE POINTS AND INCREDIBLE STYLE. THEREFORE, I WAS EXCITED TO REVIEW THE NEW SKULLCANDY METHOD 360 ANC EARBUDS, WHICH OFFER HIGH-QUALITY AUDIO, A LONG BATTERY LIFE AND A GREAT LEVEL OF ANC, TO DELIVER EARBUDS THAT ARE DESIGNED TO GO WITH YOU WHEREVER YOU GO.

The Skullcandy Method 360 ANC Earbuds bring together leading sound quality and an innovative design to deliver great earbuds that are designed to optimise audio experiences. The earbuds utilise Bose sound technology to deliver exceptional audio quality, where even the highest highs to deepest bass notes are heard in crystal clear quality. This great sound spec is then met with the innovative design of the earbuds, which feature a Fit Fin ear gel design that sits around the earbuds to

offer a better and more secure fit in your ears. Thanks to this design, the earbuds are super comfortable to wear, whilst providing a secure fit – perfect for long hours of wearing.

The fins also help ensure that excess sound from outside can’t get in, which supports the active noise cancellation (ANC) of the earbuds. As expected, this means that the ANC is great, offering a decent level of noise cancellation. However, be sure you have the best fit for your earbuds to your ears, as the better the fit, the

better your ANC experience will be. Additionally, the earbuds feature 4-mics to support the ANC, which help to filter and adjust the level of noise cancellation of the earbuds, to help them be as effective as possible. However, these mics are also used in the Stay Aware mode, which allows you to hear the world around you whilst your earbuds are in and music is playing. This means you can stay more aware of your surroundings for safety. I love being able to switch between full ANC when I’m working or at the gym,

and then the Stay Aware mode when walking home so I can hear the traffic and people around me for an added layer of safety without compromising on my listening experience.

With such a great sound and ANC offering, I was glad to see that the battery life of the earbuds didn’t disappoint. The Method 360 ANC earbuds offer up to 32 hours with the ANC turned on, thanks to 9 hours of audio playback on the earbuds alone, and then a further 23 hours in the charging case. However, with the ANC turned off, the total battery life is expanded to an even more impressive 40 hours. This long battery life means that you never have to worry about your headphones cutting out in the middle of the day, and instead, from a single charge, you can use the earbuds for long hours at a time over multiple days without needing to recharge them. However, when you do need to recharge them, the earbuds support fast charging and so you can charge up your earbuds quickly and get back to doing whatever you like, supported by Method’s 360 earbuds’ top-quality audio.

The sound quality and depth of sound delivered by the Method 360 ANC is excellent; however, if you’re a true audiophile and want to further personalise your sound, you can adjust the earbuds with the Skull-iQ App, where you have the option of 3 preset EQs or you can customise the EQ to your own unique sound preferences. The app also allows you to change the

button functions on the earbuds to make them even more customised to your specific needs.

All of these great audio specs are delivered with Skullcandy’s iconic and adventure-focused design, which sees the Method 360 ANC Earbuds in an innovative slider case, where you just pull the base of the case down to reveal the earbuds on either side of the holder. I love that the charging case doubles as a keyring that can easily be attached to your bag, keys or jeans so you always have your earbuds with you, whether you’re at work or jetting off on an adventure.

Ultimately, if you want to treat a loved one this Christmas, a pair of earbuds from Skullcandy

PROS:

design, long battery life, excellent sound quality and reliable ANC, making them a brilliant all-around pair of earbuds ready to support you or your loved one on their next adventure.

- Cool charging case that can easily be attached to your bag or keys for taking with you on the go

- Ear fin design for better sound quality and enhanced ANC support

- Long battery life, both with and without ANC on

- Fast charging

CONS:

-The charging case is designed for adventure, but this means that the case is quite bulky, and it takes up more room than many other earbud options I’ve tested, which often come in a more streamlined case. Therefore, it may not be ideal for keeping in pockets or small bags.

https://www.roadiemusic.com/roadiecoach

GADGET

ROADIE COACH

I THINK MOST PEOPLE HAVE WISHED THEY COULD PLAY AN INSTRUMENT AT ONE TIME OR ANOTHER OVER THEIR LIFE, HOWEVER, THE HIGH PRICE OF LESSONS OR EVEN FINDING THE TIME TO DO A LESSON CAN BE DIFFICULT. THEREFORE, FOR MANY OF US, THE DREAM OF LEARNING AN INSTRUMENT FADES QUICKLY WITH OUR YOUTH AND TODAY WE CAN BARELY HOLD A TUNE, HOW ABOUT PICKING UP AN INSTRUMENT AND PLAYING SOMETHING? THIS IS WHERE THE ROADIE COACH COMES IN AS YOUR PERSONAL MUSIC TUTOR, SMART RECORDER AND MIDI CONTROLLER ALL AT ONCE. WITH JUST ONE INNOVATIVE DEVICE, YOU CAN LEARN HOW TO PLAY A WHOLE RANGE OF GUITAR AND UKULELE-BASED INSTRUMENTSAND ALL FROM THE COMFORT OF YOUR OWN HOME. .

The Roadie Coach simply attaches to your instrument and instantly begins giving you vital feedback to learn how to play and get better with each session. To achieve this the Roadie Coach utilises its built-in mics to listen to you as you play and provides areas to improve on next time. Then, through the accompanying app, you can practice these techniques to learn in a more focused way as you would with a traditional music lesson. This can be anything from getting down a particularly hard chord pattern to having better control of your rhythm. All aspects can be assessed using the Roadie Coach to help you get better every day through guided lesson on both guitars and ukuleles. Plus, to help learn your instrument even more, the Roadie Coach comes packed with a large library of hundreds of songs spanning a great variety of genres so you’re sure to find at least a song or two that you’d like to practice with.

One of the main perks of the Roadie Coach is that it can be used across a range of guitars from electric, to acoustic or even classical, as well as for ukuleles. For this, the RoadieCoach helps you to tune your instrument directly through its hardware, as well as with the app for an always great sound. However, if you’re also hoping to step up your singing game alongside your instrumental capabilities, the Roadie Coach can also analyse your singing and provide feedback on this alongside your instrument feedback. This dual approach means that you never have to split lessons and can develop both talents alongside each other with the innovative help of the Roadie Coach. Plus, to listen back to your performance, you can even save and download the recordings from each session to

store on your device utilising its 8GB of flash memory storage, and 250+ hours of 48KHz OPUS recordings. You can also record in WAV format, and so recordings can be saved and shared directly in mp3 format too! This allows you to track your progress, and even save new musical ideas for future projects should you fancy yourself as an original writer too.

The Roadie Coach also operates as a MIDI Control which can be connected with other devices or your computer for use with DAW or other audio apps. This allows even greater control over your Roadie Coach where you can assign specific MIDI inputs to produce whatever sound you desire. This is perfect for more experienced musicians, who want to continue to develop their skills and create new music using the Roadie Coach. Plus, the microphone sound levels can be adjusted for each recording, as well as the compression and equalizer for even greater control over your sound.

The Roadie Coach makes an ideal gift for someone just starting on their music journey who doesn’t want to spend hundreds on music sessions but still wants to add a musical skill to their repertoire. At under £200, the Roadie Coach is a perfect one-off purchase that can provide hours of learning at your own pace to develop a skill when it suits you and from the comfort of your own home. The entire device is backed by engineers, experienced musicians and music teachers, so you know that with one purchase you are gaining a vast array of expertise to help you learn a new talent completely on your own timeline.

PROS:

- Easy-to-navigate device which fits seamlessly onto your instrument (comes with a range of clamping arms and a ball-head attachment)

- Backed by the Roadie Coach App for real-time feedback and metric monitoring for motivation

- Affordable price point and easy to fit into busy schedule unlike traditional in-person music lessons

- Designed for both beginner and more advanced players to develop skills and record their own tunes

CONS:

- I do wish there was even more selection of songs available on the app to choose from, but more do seem to be being added each week

£48.99

https://www.amazon.co.uk/DataLocker-Encrypted-256-bit-

Rugged-Compliant/dp/B0FM9VM3ZT/ref=sr_1_1

DATALOCKER DL GO HARDWARE ENCRYPTED USB (4GB)

YOU CAN NEVER BE TOO CAREFUL ABOUT YOUR DATA SECURITY, SO HAVING A SECURE PLACE TO STORE YOUR HEALTH RECORDS, LEGAL DOCUMENTS, AND FAMILY FILES IS ESSENTIAL. THE BEST WAY TO DO THIS IS THROUGH SOME FORM OF ENCRYPTED HARD DRIVE OR USB; HOWEVER, THESE DON’T ALWAYS HAVE THE LEVEL OF SECURITY YOU MIGHT NEED, ESPECIALLY FOR PERSONAL INFORMATION THAT MAY BE STORED ON IT. THEREFORE, I WAS EXCITED TO SEE THE DL GO HARDWARE-ENCRYPTED USB FROM DATALOCKER THAT IS DESIGNED TO BE A SECURE PLACE TO STORE ALL OF YOUR FILES.

The DataLocker DL GO is designed with individuals, small businesses and teams in mind who want that extra layer of protection for their files. The DL GO has capacities ranging from 4GB to 64GB, this ensures that there’s a hard drive capacity to suit your personal or team needs. To ensure all your data is secure, the USB features toptier AES 256-bit XTS encryption hardware. This means that from the very moment you plug in your USB drive, the files on it are protected. I like that the DL GO is super easy to use, without much experience or IT knowledge. When first plugged in, a read-only launcher will appear, which allows you to access the DataLocker app, where you can unlock your device. This is where you’ll be able to set up a password for the DL GO, and where you’ll unlock the drive for each use. Once you have unlocked the device, the encrypted secure storage drive will become available, ready for you to drop your files into. You can also set up a biometric passkey if your device has Windows Hello or Touch ID to make unlocking even more secure using just your fingerprint. I like that the DL GO features a brute force attack defence, so if the password is incorrectly attempted 10 times, the data on

the device will be erased. This ensures that should the drive end up in the wrong hands, the files on it cannot be accessed, and after too many failed unlocking attempts, all the information on it will be erased for added security. However, should you just forget your password, the DL GO works with MySafeConsole, which provides device management, including password recovery. This is a super useful thing to have on hand and ensures that in the event of a forgotten password, you can still access your files whilst still keeping them safe from anyone else.

Overall, the DataLocker DL GO is a super useful tool to have to keep your data safe. With a durable metal exterior, this nifty little USB drive is the perfect companion for data security that is built to last. If you are looking for a way to store your files that feels more secure, or are looking for a secure unit to support the data of your small team, the DL GO is an excellent and affordable data encryption unit.

PROS:

- Secure storage option for data and files

- Easy to set up and input a passkey for each use

- Affordable price for personal or small team data security

- Can be paired with MySafeConsole for added protection and password recovery

CONS:

- If you are looking for a data encryption device for a larger team or enterprise deployment, this model may not be the ideal fit, as it’s primarily designed for personal or small team use. However, DataLocker offers other encrypted storage solutions better suited for largescale or centrally managed environments

£100.00

https://www.hexcal.com/products/heavy-duty-monitor-arm

HEXCAL HEAVY DUTY MONITOR ARM

MANY OF US ARE ENHANCING OUR DESK SETUPS AND INTRODUCING LARGER MONITORS TO MAKE WORKFLOWS MORE SEAMLESS AND GAMING AN EVEN MORE IMMERSIVE EXPERIENCE. HOWEVER, WHEN YOU’VE INVESTED SO MUCH INTO YOUR SCREEN, YOU DON’T WANT IT TO SIT ON YOUR DESK SURROUNDED BY WIRES AND LIKELY AT AN UNCOMFORTABLE ANGLE FOR LONG PERIODS OF USE. THEREFORE, ONE OF THE BEST SOLUTIONS TO ENHANCE YOUR DESK SET-UP AND PROVIDE A MORE ERGONOMICALLY ADVANCED VIEWING ANGLE IS BY GETTING A MONITOR ARM THAT YOU CAN ATTACH YOUR SCREEN TO AND RAISE IT UP OFF YOUR DESK. FOR THIS, HEXCAL HAVE DEVELOPED THE HEAVY DUTY MONITOR ARM THAT IS DESIGNED TO SUPPORT LARGER AND HEAVIER MONITORS TO ENHANCE YOUR DESK SET-UP AND HELP YOU MAKE THE MOST OF YOUR MONITOR.

The Hexcal Heavy Duty Monitor Arm is super minimalist in design, featuring an all-black aluminium construction. Each component feels heavy and once constructed, the entire arm is super sturdy. The Hexcal Heavy Duty Monitor Arm is designed to support ultrawide flat monitors that are up to 57” wide and weighing up to 27kg, as well as curved monitors weighing up to 22kg. To handle the added size and weight, the Heavy-Duty Monitor Arm features a sturdy C-clamp design that securely attaches to the edge of your desk, ensuring the arm has the necessary support and leverage to hold such a screen securely. The arm then attaches to the back of the monitor using a secure VESA plate for an allaround reliable hold.

I love just how solid the Heavy Duty Monitor arm is, as when you’ve spent so much investing in a new screen, you want to know that the arm holding it up is going to be reliable and secure. Once attached, the arm features various adjustable angles

and swivel points which allow you to perfectly position your monitor at the perfect height to support good posture, whilst freeing up your desk space. Once you’re happy with the positioning of your screen, the arm is then locked into place using screws to ensure that the monitor stays securely in position.

One of the innovative things I like about the monitor arm is that it’s been designed with cable management in mind, and so all your monitor cables can be fed down through the arm to seamlessly integrate the monitor and arm into your desk set-up without there being a plethora of ugly wires getting in the way. I love the seamless and more put-together look this gives your desk.

If you’re on the hunt for a monitor arm, whether for yourself after a recent monitor upgrade, or for the tech-savvy person in your life, the Hexcal Heavy Duty Monitor Arm is a reliable, durable and secure choice that will support your monitor above your desk to save space and keep everything looking more organised.

PROS:

- Super secure and durable design that feels weighty and sturdy enough to hold heavy monitors

- Adjustable joints to get the perfect angle – which can then be locked into place for a secure hold

- Cable management integrated into the design

CONS:

- The arm does need to be attached to a sturdy desk, because any movements of your desk (e.g. vibrations when typing) may cause the monitor arm to shake too. However, this is less of an issue with the Heavy Duty Monitor Arm and more about the need for a stable surface for the best user experience with it.

GADGETS STM GOODS ORIGIN LAPTOP SLEEVE

$19.95

https://stmgoods.com/products/origin-

sleeve?variant=50391645683991

PROTECTING YOUR LAPTOP IS SUPER IMPORTANT, ESPECIALLY AS MANY OF US NOW USE OUR LAPTOPS TO WORK ON THE GO. THEREFORE, HAVING A RELIABLE LAPTOP CASE THAT IS SECURE, PADDED AND WILL PREVENT DAMAGE TO YOUR DEVICE IS ESSENTIAL. STM GOODS, KNOWN FOR THEIR LAPTOP BAGS, PACKS AND FITTED CASES, HAS DEVELOPED THE ORIGIN LAPTOP CASE TO SAFEGUARD YOUR TECH DEVICES WITH SMART DESIGN CHOICES. .

The Origin Laptop Case is super slimline and designed to hold a 14” MacBook Pro or other 13” screens inside the padded interior. The case has a fleece-lined interior to sit against your laptop and prevent it from any scratches or bumps. The exterior of the case is made from EVA, providing 4mm of protective cushioning to protect your laptop and deliver a good level of shock absorption should your device get dropped or bumped whilst in the case.

I like the simple design, which gives your laptop case a sleek and stylish look. The case we got to review came in ‘Glacier Blue’, which features a light blue top panel and a navy bottom panel. I like the minimalist design, which gives a professional and sophisticated look to your laptop when on the go. The zip even features a durable webbing zipper design, which ensures a smooth and effortless opening. It is these kinds of details that make STM

Goods’ product so good, as every single detail from the padding to the zip has been taken into consideration to produce the best laptop case possible.

If you’re looking for a new laptop case, the STM Goods Origin Laptop

Sleeve is a good and easy option that delivers a good level of protection in a stylish and professional-looking case, ideal for working on the go.

PROS:

- Fleece-lined sleeve to prevent scratches on your device - 4mm shock-absorbing EVA padding for enhanced drop and bump protection - Stylish colourways that look professional and sleek

£179.99

https://www.logitech.com/en-gb/shop/p/flip-folio

LOGITECH FLIP FOLIO

VERSATILITY AND FUNCTIONALITY ARE WHAT COME TO MIND WHEN I THINK OF THE FLIP FOLIO FROM LOGITECH. THE CASE AND KEYBOARD HYBRID ALLOWS YOU TO WORK WHERE YOU WANT, HOW YOU WANT, AND WHEN YOU WANT WITH A KEYBOARD AND SCREEN SET UP TO MAKE TASKS A BREEZE.

The Flip Folio from Logitech combines the safety and protection of an iPad case with the functionality of a keyboard. The case magnetises to your iPad, providing great levels of scratch and bump protection across both the front and back of your device. The case folds out into a supportive stand that can be adjusted to your preferred viewing angle.

The case attaches to your iPad using a sturdy magnetic connection, which ensures a firm grip of your device so it won’t slip out in your bag, where it could get damaged. One of the big benefits of this magnetic connection is that you can easily turn your iPad from landscape to portrait, offering a variety of viewing angles to suit whatever type of work you’re doing. From typing up a presentation to scrolling social media, you can just move your screen to your desired orientation and keep working without having to wrestle with your case. Plus, once connected in a portrait mode, you can even pair the keyboard with your device for multiscreen operations to boost productivity no matter where you are. Aside from being a top-quality case for your iPad, the Flip Folio also comes with a magnetic full-sized keyboard that snaps to the front of the Flip Folio for easy storage when on the go. The keyboard is remarkably thin, and barely noticeable when attached to the front of the Flip Folio cover. However, by simply removing the keyboard and propping your iPad up on the Flip Folio case, you have a screen and keyboard set up like you’d have with any laptop. This transforms your iPad instantly into a more formal setup, where you can type without the need for a keyboard on the screen, whilst still making the most of your iPad’s touchscreen navigation.

I like that the keyboard has been designed with functionality in mind, and so features a whole row of IOS shortcut keys to make actions and controls even easier. Therefore, the Flip Folio is a gamechanger for anyone who works on the go and needs a more formal keyboard and screen setup from time to time, whilst still having the versatility and flexibility that comes with working on your iPad. This would be the perfect pairing for those who love to work from coffee shops or co-working spaces, to have a screen and keyboard set up in their bag that is easy to transport and ready to go wherever they choose to work.

Unlike many other keyboards, the one in the Flip Folio does not require recharging as it instead uses button cell batteries to deliver up to 2 years of battery life, depending on usage. This means that you never have to worry about your keyboard being uncharged when you want to be productive. However, the batteries will eventually need to be replaced when they do run out. Thankfully, the keyboard does automatically turn off when connected to the case to help save as much battery as possible, and help extend its lifespan.

If you work on the go and want to make the most out of your iPad, the Flip Folio is an excellent option to protect your device while delivering extra functionality for any task or activity. From a stable and reliable platform for your iPad to a magnetic and functional keyboard, the Flip Folio has been carefully designed with versatility in mind to enhance workflows whilst keeping up with your on-the-go lifestyle.

PROS:

- Magnetic case to firmly hold your iPad whilst remaining easy to move for use of your iPad both in landscape and portrait modes

- Seamlessly integrated magnetic keyboard that is compact but super functional

- Multi-device pairing for seamless functionality across multiple devices

CONS:

- I’d have liked for the keyboard to be rechargeable, because when the batteries run out, they will need to be replaced. However, I am glad the lifespan of the batteries is meant to be quite substantial, so they shouldn’t need replacing too often.

£29.99

https://exgpro.com/products/playstation-astro-bot- cable-guys-controller-holder-and-phone-stand

ASTRO BOT PHONE AND TECH HOLDER

AS ONE OF THE MOST HIGHLY RATED GAMES OF 2024, IT’S NO SURPRISE THAT EXG PRO HAVE BROUGHT THE BELOVED ROBOT FIGURE OF ASTRO FROM ASTRO BOT TO LIFE, TO GIVE YOU YOUR OWN LITTLE ROBOT FRIEND THAT CAN SIT ON YOUR DESK AND HOLD YOUR DEVICE WHILST YOU GAME.

The Astro Bot Phone and Tech Holder sits at roughly 22cm in height, providing ample space to place your phone on Astro’s outstretched arms. The entire holder feels super secure, ensuring that whether you place your phone or controller on it, it will stay in place. I would have liked to see a slightly more non-slip material on the arms of the phone holder, just for a little added stability for peace of mind that your device or controller won’t move should you knock your desk or nightstand. However, the balance between Astro’s face and arms seems to provide a great area for holding everything in place well.

I love how adorable Astro Bot looks, and when not in use, the phone and tech holder adds a nice figure to your desk to enhance the overall gaming look of your setup. Therefore, the cute figure then being used as a phone stand makes it doubly functional and aesthetically pleasing for any gaming set-up – especially for someone who is a big Astro Bot fan!

Overall, the phone and tech holders from EXG Pro are a great option for any gamer in your life, and here the Astro Bot version

is great for those who are obsessed with the Astro Bot game. If you’re not sure about what to get the gaming fan in your life this Christmas, check out EXG Pro’s tech and phone holder collections, as you are sure to find a figure from one of your loved one’s most favourite games.

PROS:

- Stable phone holder

- Cute figure that looks exactly like Astro from the Astro Bot Game

- Large holder size suitable for both phone and gaming controllers

CONS:

- I’d have liked to see a slightly more slip-resistant/ rubbery material on the arms of the holder to help prevent any accidental slips should the stand or desk get knocked

GADGETS

£39.99

https://www.kraftedtech.com/products/couch-deep-blue

KRAFTED COUCH

WE’VE ALL BEEN THERE, COMFY ON THE SOFA, PILLOW PLACED PERFECTLY, AND YOUR BLANKET JUST RIGHT – AND THEN YOU REALISE YOUR PHONE IS ABOUT TO RUN OUT OF CHARGE FORCING YOU TO LEAVE YOUR COSY OASIS. WITH THE KRAFTED COUCH, YOU NEVER HAVE TO LEAVE YOUR COSY BUBBLE TO CHARGE YOUR PHONE AGAIN; YOU JUST HAVE TO PLACE YOUR PHONE ON THE WIRELESS CHARGER ON YOUR SOFA ARM AND GET BACK TO RELAXING..

I’ve used a few different wireless chargers over the years, and they offer a nice change from plugging your phone in with a cable. I love just how easy wireless chargers make charging your phone. Now, the Krafted Couch have taken wireless charging to the next level and delivered a smart and stylish charging solution that sits on the arm of your sofa ready to charge your phone with ease.

The Krafted Couch is made up of a wireless charging pad, cable and the silicone chair arm band. The convenient 2-meter charging cable plugs into the charging pad, which then sits in the silicone chair arm band. The band looks super stylish, especially in the lovely deep blue colourway that we got to test out, and thanks to the weighty silicone it stays firmly in place whilst on your sofa arm. I love that the wire is a great length, so you don’t have to worry about making sure your sofa is near a super close socket; instead, the cable simply connects to the Krafted Couch, providing a sleek and seamless charging station right on your sofa arm.

The wireless charger supports fast charging for MagSafe and Qi2 certified devices, delivering a max output of 15W for iPhones and 10W for Androids. This fast-charging output is ideal for keeping your phone charged up, without the hassle of looking

for a charging cable and plugging it in. Instead, the Krafted Couch is always ready to go and ideally located on the arm of the sofa to allow you, or any guests you have to easily charge their phone whilst relaxing. This would make the perfect gift for any tech savvy person to make charging their phone just a little bit more convenient whilst still looking super stylish in the process!

PROS:

- Secure and sleek charging spot on the sofa

- Useful 2-meter-long cable for easy charging

- Supports fast charging for quick recharging

- Anti-slip silicone design for secure placement

£5.99

https://www.ryman.co.uk/canyon-wireless- mouse-black-mw-04-black

CANYON WIRELESS MOUSE MW-04

A GOOD AND EASY-TO-USE MOUSE IS AN ESSENTIAL FOR ANY OFFICE SET-UP, AND WITH THE CANYON WIRELESS MOUSE MW-04, THIS COULDN’T BE EASIER. FOR CANYON, ITS WIRELESS MOUSE MW-04 FOCUSES ON SIMPLICITY TO DELIVER A UNIVERSAL MOUSE READY TO PROVIDE ALL YOUR SEARCHING AND NAVIGATION NEEDS AT YOUR DESK. WITH BLUETOOTH CONNECTIVITY, A SMART POWER-SAVING SYSTEM AND A 1200 DPI OPTICAL SENSOR, YOU REALLY CAN’T GO WRONG WITH THIS AFFORDABLE MOUSE OPTION.

The Canyon Wireless Mouse MW-04 computer mouse is super affordable, priced at just £5.99. This price point makes it a super useful addition to any on-the-go setup, or even for those who just need an uncomplicated mouse for easy daily searching. The mouse is lightweight and compact, meaning it’s perfect for taking with you on the go, and so I think this would make the perfect addition to any co-working or coffee shop work setups. The mouse connects via Bluetooth, ensuring there are no wires or additional dongles needed to use the mouse. Instead, you just need to connect it to your device’s Bluetooth and it’s ready to be used.

The mouse features a 120 DPI optical sensor, which, when combined with the smart power saving system, ensures you can make 3 million accurate clicks with just a single AA battery powering the mouse. Plus, the mouse is even suitable for those who are both left and right-handed, thanks to its ambidextrous design, making it the perfect, affordable and easy-to-use mouse at work or on the go. For the price, you really can’t go wrong with the Canyon Wireless Mouse MW-04 computer mouse. Whilst it may not be the fanciest mouse in the market, it does exactly what you need it to do and without any hassle. The lightweight and compact

PROS:

- 120 DPI optical sensor for accurate clicks

- Smart power saving design to save battery for longterm use

- Wireless connection for easy use across devices

CONS:

- May not be compatible with some older desktops that are not Bluetoothenabled

TIDRADIO IS A LEADING MANUFACTURER IN THE PROFESSIONAL WIRELESS COMMUNICATIONS INDUSTRY, FOCUSED ON DELIVERING DEVICES FOR CLEAR COMMUNICATION OVER RADIO FREQUENCIES. HAVING REVIEWED THE TD-H3 HAM RADIO A FEW MONTHS AGO, WE GOT THE CHANCE TO SEE WHAT DEVELOPMENTS HAVE BEEN MADE AS PART OF THE TD-H3 PLUS HAM GMRS RADIO.

The TD-H3 Plus is a rugged radio designed to deliver all the great aspects of the original TD-H3 alongside a range of upgrades for an even greater radio communication experience. The radio we got to review came in a bright green colourway, providing a fun and attention-grabbing exterior to the device – ideal for using on adventures for easy finding in an emergency. The radio comes with a USB-C Charger and cable, a back clip for the radio, a 2500mAh battery and a 3m hand strip. Much like the TD-H3, the overall feel of the radio is super sturdy and durable, with every feature from the buttons to the 1.44inch colour screen has been designed to make communication easier, no matter the environment.

The TD-H3 Plus operates very similarly to the TD-H3 model, providing all the same 199 programmable channels, wide frequency coverage and scanning functions. However, the TD-H3 Plus model now features multi-band coverage offering the full scope of communication and alerts across VHF, UHF, AM/FM and NOAA weather channels. Across these, the radio highlights busy and clear channels designed to help get set up faster. However, as with the TD-H3 radio, please ensure you acquire the

correct licence before communicating with the radio, because it is illegal to do so without the correct licensing!

One of the big advantages of the TD-H3 Plus is that it can be used as a global intercom via the ODmaster App. This means that the radio can be turned into a portable repeater, which enables multi-hop global communications. This makes the radio ideal for adventures or as an emergency radio, as you can link multiple devices together for communication, whilst extending your range to link with other amateur or GMRS radios. Plus, the TD-H3 Plus even features a text messaging service between two TD-H3 walkie-talkies on the same frequency. This means that communication can be made via message when discreet alerts are needed, or for clear communication in loud environments.

I like that in the updated TD-H3 Plus version, the radio can also be used to play music or answer calls, turning the radio into a wireless speaker, allowing you to stay hands-free and enjoy music on the go. This can be achieved thanks to the Bluetooth connection of the device, which allows for the radio to be connected to wireless microphones, speakers and headsets, making it a useful Bluetooth speaker for both music playback and hands-free calls on the go. This enhanced connectivity adds just another useful layer to the overall performance of the TD-H3.

Alongside the reliable build of the radio, TIDRADIO have also enhanced

the radio’s interface display. The updated display now offers 3 new themes, which are designed to suit your environment. These themes range from daytime, nighttime and low-lighting options, which ensure you can always clearly see the display and all the channel info you need at a glance. Plus, you can now customise the names of channels and frequencies with labels to help better identify different channels when in large field operations or when monitoring multiple channel frequencies.

The enhanced performance of the TD-H3 Plus is made possible thanks to the ODmaster Web interface, which allows for updates and programming to be made directly to the device. The interface allows for firmware upgrades to be downloaded directly to the radio to

PROS:

ensure it is always performing at its best. Additionally, frequencies can be programmed into the radio directly from the app for enhanced programming and connectivity for communication.

Overall, the TD-H3 Plus Ham GMRS Radio builds on the functionality of the TD-H3 for radio communication and develops beyond this with enhanced connectivity and upgraded communication services to make radio communication clearer and easier to achieve. Whether for professional use or for adventures as a way of communicating in an emergency, the TD-H3 Plus radio is a reliable and durable radio, designed to make radio communication clear and reliable, no matter the environment.

- Durable radio that is hard-wearing – designed for adventure and professional use

- Upgraded screen themes and channel labelling for easier visibility and monitoring

- Global intercom service providing great communication between linked devices

CONS:

- The TD-H3 Plus offers a great variety of options, but these can be a little complicated to get to grips with if a novice in the amateur radio world

HYPERX ALLOY RISE 75 WIRELESS GAMING KEYBOARD

£169.99

https://uk.hyperx.com/products/hyperx-alloy-

rise-mechanical-gaming-keyboard

I’VE TRIED MANY KEYBOARDS OVER THE YEARS, BUT UNTIL NOW, I’D NEVER TESTED ONE FROM HYPERX, SO I WAS EXCITED TO GET A CHANCE TO PLAY WITH THE HYPERX ALLOY RISE 75 WIRELESS GAMING KEYBOARD AND SEE ALL THE GREAT FEATURES IT HAS TO OFFER.

Straight out of the box, I was impressed with just how solid the keyboard was, as it has a good weight behind it. The keyboard features a compact 75% keyboard layout, which has removed the traditional number pad, in favour of a more simplified layout where just the essential keys remain, alongside an innovative control rotary knob. This compact form makes the keyboard ideal for a small desk or gaming setups where space is limited. On first appearances, the keyboard is super minimalist, featuring an all-black colourway, with everything from the base to the keys all being in the same monochromatic black, with even the lettering looking to be in a subtle dark grey. However, the true beauty of the keyboard comes to life as soon as you turn it on, and you are met with the RGB backlighting that gives a rainbow glow across the keys. The lights shine through the key caps, casting a rainbow glow across the keys, illuminating the letters and symbols on each key. The side of the keyboard even features a fun rainbow coloured strip to give a cohesive and pretty overall look to the keyboard. These

lights are designed with ambient light technology, and the ambient light sensor on the top of the keyboard will detect how dark the room is and adjust the brightness of the keyboard to suit its environment. This makes the keyboard perfect for a dark and immersive gaming set-up, providing a lovely glow beneath your fingers whilst you’re busy winning games.

Aside from its beautiful aesthetics, the HyperX Alloy Rise 75 Wireless Gaming Keyboard features a

ton of great features to make gaming and typing a breeze. Each key features HyperX Linear Switches, which have a half-walled POM system for better stability and are pre-lubed to deliver a lightning-fast 1k polling rate to make every keystroke quick and accurate. However, should you not like the preinstalled switches, the keyboard is also designed to be completely customised to you, and so each key is hot swappable. This means that you can swap out each switch with one of your choice to get

the most enhanced and smooth typing experience possible. These then sit within the gasket-mounted frame, offering he most customised and smooth typing experience possible. However, the customisation doesn’t end there, because the magnetic top plate can be removed to be interchanged with one that better suits your style and gaming set-up aesthetics. HyperX have a range of HyperX Alloy Rise Keyboard Top Plates (£34.99) options to give your set-up a look personalised to you. I’ve never seen a removable top plate on a keyboard before, but it provides such a fun and innovative way to switch up the aesthetics of your keyboard that is completely tool-free. Then, internally, the keyboard and rotary knob can be completely customised via the NGENUITY app to program the keyboard and save 10 profiles to your keyboard with programmed lighting and macro set-ups for a whole range of situations. This customisability means you can make the keyboard truly your own and personalise it to your specific gaming needs.

In terms of connectivity, the HyperX Alloy Rise 75 Wireless Gaming Keyboard is flexible, offering a reliable wireless connection via either the 2.4GHz dongle located at the back of the keyboard or a Bluetooth connection. Across both of these, the keyboard connects seamlessly, offering reliable and quick responses with no lag – ideal for fast keystrokes needed for quick reactions in games. I love the wireless

nature of the keyboard because it helps to keep my desk wire-free for a more minimalist look. However, if you want a wired connection or need to charge the keyboard, it does come with a USB-A to USB-C cable, which can connect to your computer or console to ensure you never miss a beat.

With such a great wireless connection, the keyboard needs a good battery, and the HyperX Alloy Rise 75 does not disappoint. In fact, the keyboard has one of the longest battery lives for a backlit gaming keyboard on the market. With the backlighting on, the keyboard boasts to last 80 hours, and with the backlighting off, a super impressive 1500 hours. This gives plenty of hours of gameplay before you even need to think about recharging,

PROS:

meaning you’ll never be caught out mid-game with a keyboard that’s run out of charge.

Overall, the HyperX Alloy Rise 75 Wireless Gaming Keyboard is a top-quality keyboard that delivers a compact set-up, which doesn’t compromise on quality. From being able to customise everything from the aesthetics down to the very keys, the keyboard is designed to be made truly yours. Therefore, the HyperX Alloy Rise 75 Wireless Gaming Keyboard is the perfect gift for any gamer to give them a great keyboard that they can customise to their needs and style, whilst delivering high-precision key clicks to help you win every game.

- RGB backlighting that has an ambient light sensor for immersive gaming

- Customisable keyboard – from hot swappable keys to interchangeable top plate

- Super long battery life

- Compact size ideal for small desks

CONS:

-The keyboard is about 75% of a traditional keyboard, having removed the number pad from the right-hand side, and so the compacted form can take a little getting used to

PULSEFIRE SAGA

£99.98

https://www.hp.com/gb-en/shop/product.aspx -

?id=A2PB2AA&opt=&sel=ACC

PRO WIRELESS CUSTOMISABLE GAMING MOUSE

A RELIABLE, FAST AND RESPONSIVE MOUSE IS ESSENTIAL WHEN IT COMES TO GAMING, AND WITH HYPERX’S PULSEFIRE SAGE PRO WIRELESS CUSTOMISABLE GAMING MOUSE, THIS HAS NOW BEEN MADE CUSTOMISABLE TO DELIVER THE PERFECT MOUSE FOR EVERY GAMING NEED.

The HyperX Pulsefire Saga Pro Wireless Customisable Gaming Mouse may look like a minimalist yet sleek computer mouse straight out of the box; however, the mouse features an entirely customisable modular shell that can be interchanged with magnetic components. These components can be easily removed and replaced with different grip styles, with up to 16 combinations where the buttons and side switches can all be customised to your specific needs. The box comes with an additional shell and side button pair, which can be easily interchanged with the ones that come attached to the mouse. Both the shells and buttons can be easily interchanged

via the magnets on the mouse, which allow them to slot into place for a secure hold. I love that the ability to change up your mouse is entirely tool-free, meaning you can change your mouse super easily without needing a screwdriver and any particularly intricate knowledge of how a computer mouse is built!

Once you’ve got the right shell and buttons for your needs and grip style, you can then use HyperX’s NGENUITY Software to personalise the mouse to increase the DPI and polling rate, as well as adjust the RGB lights colours and patterns of the mouse and

reprogram the 5 buttons on the mouse to do exactly what you need to optimise your game play. I love that from the construction to the software, the mouse is designed to be fully adjusted to your needs to create a mouse that is truly unique to you. One of the most exciting adjustments of the mouse is that you can adjust the polling rate, with the option to increase it to a 4k polling rate that is pro-grade to deliver next-level precision and accuracy with every click. Alongside this, the DPI can be adjusted between 4 different presets (400, 800, 1600, 3200), offering the

most versatile and adaptable mouse needed for both browsing and gaming. Thus, the mouse is perfect for even the most fast-paced games, where every mouse click matters to ensure you never miss a beat. Plus, when paired with the HyperX Pulsefire Mat Gaming Mouse Pad (£12.98), you get one of the smoothest gaming experiences possible, thanks to the additional comfort and non-slip design of the mouse mat, which ensures every click is accurate for the ultimate gaming experience.

In terms of battery life, the HyperX Pulsefire Saga Pro Wireless Customisable Gaming Mouse is great, offering up to 90 hours of battery life on a single charge when using the mouse in the 1kHz mode. However, for intense gaming, using the 4K polling mode, the battery life is closer to 30 hours. This long battery life is a big perk when it comes to the mouse, as it ensures you won’t get caught out mid-game with your mouse out of charge. Plus, even if the battery does get low, the mouse comes with a charging cable that can be plugged into the back of the mouse for gaming, even while you charge. I was glad to see that the mouse is super easy to connect to your PC or gaming console, thanks to the included 2.4GHz USB wireless dongle that delivers reliable and accurate connectivity. However, you can also connect the mouse via Bluetooth for a super easy and seamless connection too. Plus, if you have an OMEN gaming laptop, the mouse has been designed to directly connect with this type of laptop without the need for

a dongle as an added connectivity bonus. In conclusion, the HyperX Plusefire Saga Pro Wireless Customisable Gaming Mouse is a super innovative mouse that can be completely customised to your needs. From ergonomic shells to customisable buttons, the mouse can be made truly yours so you can

focus on winning games, rather than waiting for your mouse to catch up with you! If you’re an avid gamer and looking for a mouse upgrade, or have a loved one who is always gaming, this would make the perfect present to give them a completely customisable computer mouse that they can design to their own unique preferences with ease.

PROS:

- Customisable design with interchangeable shells and buttons

- Pro-level 4 k polling rate for super quick and accurate clicks

- Long battery life with up to 90 hours of use

MECHANICAL KEYBOARD

$85.99

https://epomaker.com/products/ epomaker-rt85

IVE TESTED MULTIPLE EPOMAKER KEYBOARDS OVER THE YEARS, AND I LOVE THE BRAND’S BLEND OF FUNCTIONALITY AND AESTHETICS TO DELIVER KEYBOARDS THAT BOTH LOOK GOOD ON YOUR DESK AND MAKE TYPING EASY. THEREFORE, I WAS EXCITED TO TEST OUT EPOMAKER’S NEW RT85 MECHANICAL KEYBOARD, WHICH FEATURES AN EXCITING RETRO-INSPIRED DESIGN, AN INNOVATIVE 3-IN-1 SCREEN, AND A USEFUL CONTROL JOYSTICK.

Straight out of the box, I love how fun and retro the design is without being too over the top. The main body of the keyboard comes in a lovely light grey colour, with the keys in the same light grey. However, some of the control keys are in a dark grey, with the Enter, Space, ESC and Arrow keys in a lovely contrasting orange. The overall look reminds me of retro computers and games, adding a fun yet classic look to your gaming set-up. However, the keyboard is only retro in appearance because within the keyboard is all of Epomaker’s newest tech, making it

more reliable and efficient for intense gaming sessions or productive work. Once turned on, the keyboard comes to life, with an interactive small screen display, and every key is illuminated by south-facing RGB lights. The lights feature the typical rainbow glow that we’ve seen across many of Epomaker’s keyboard ranges. This adds a lovely modern touch to the otherwise retroinspired design.

The small screen display is one of my favourite aspects of the keyboard, as it functions much like a smart watch, offering you a variety of uses from telling you the time to letting you see your notifications. However, it can also be used for the central control panel for the keyboard and a display centre showing off your favourite pixel art or animated GIFs. This adds a lovely personal touch to your keyboard, whilst remaining

functional to help you enhance your control over the keyboard without having to click away from what you’re doing. To further enhance your control over the keyboard, the accompanying joystick allows you to seamlessly toggle through menus, adjust your volume or even tailor the lights to your set-up. The joystick has been usefully located around the arrow keys, which makes it super easy to access from game controls to quickly adjust the keyboard to your needs. Therefore, the entire design of the keyboard has your gaming experience in mind, and so the controls, lighting and screen have been made to enhance this experience.

One of the things I first noticed about the keyboard is that it has a great weight to it, giving it a premium and sturdy feel on your desk. The weighty keyboard is supported by an ergonomic typing angle and a sound-dampening gasket. The sound dampening ensures that every click produces a satisfying click, whilst the ergonomic flex cut PC plate and gasket ensure that you get the most cushioned typing experience possible. However, you can even take your comfort one step further, as each key is completely hot swappable, so you can adjust the keys to your preferred cushioning and typing needs to make the keyboard truly your own. Plus, as it’s an Epomaker keyboard, the entire keyboard can be remapped to your needs and produce shortcuts to make both gaming and productivity easier. Therefore, from the design to the programming,

required connectivity. With reliable wireless connectivity comes the need for a great battery life, and the RT85 keyboard has a great battery life. The keyboard boasts to have a 90hour battery life with the screen and lights on, and up to 320 hours with the screen and lights off. This means plenty of use across the week, without

and now incorporates them into a retro-inspired design, perfect for any retro gaming enthusiast. From the durable feel of the keyboard to the screen and joystick, the entire thing has been designed with functionality and aesthetics in mind to deliver a great keyboard that is perfect for tackling your favourite games.

PROS:

- Fun retro-inspired design ideal for those who love a retro game

- 3-in-1 screen and joystick for enhanced control even whilst midgame play

- Long battery life for hours of use between charges

$ 79.99 https://epomaker.com/products/epomaker-carbonx- mouse

GAMING MOUSE

DESIGNED FOR PRECISION GAME PLAY, THE EPOMAKER CARBONX WIRELESS SYMMETRICAL E-SPORTS GAMING MOUSE WILL HELP YOU TACKLE ANY BATTLE OR STRATEGY GAME SO YOU CAN STAY AHEAD OF THE COMPETITION, SUPPORTED BY A MOUSE DESIGNED FOR YOUR EVERY GAMING NEED.

The CarbonX Mouse features a unique open shell design made from carbon fibre that keeps the overall feel of the mouse super lightweight at just 50 grams. The shell has been designed to fit perfectly in the contours of your hand, offering unmatched comfort when playing, whilst also reducing fatigue so you never have to pause your game due to an aching hand during long gaming sessions. Then, the carbon fibre ensures the durability of the mouse, whilst being pleasantly breathable due to the open-caged design of the shell.

Aside from its cool aesthetics, the CarbonX Mouse features a state-of-the-art sensor that delivers an ultra-responsive mouse. The mouse includes a PAW3950 Sensor, which offers unmatched performance, as it allows you to completely adjust the DPI settings of the mouse across 7 pre-calibrated stages. This means you can change the DPI rate from 400 for smoother and more controlled game movements, all the way up to an impressive top rate of 30,000 DPI, ideal for quick precision clicks. In addition to this, the mouse also features an adjustable polling rate that provides the smoothest control, and almost instant motion transitions. The

mouse comes set at a 1000Hz polling rate; however, via Epomaker’s online software, this can be adjusted up to an impressive 8000 Hz polling rate for unmatched precision and click speed. Furthermore, the mouse buttons (excluding the left mouse button) can be completely programmed to your needs. The programmability is available via Epomaker’s online software, where users can change the mouse’s buttons to help navigate games, achieve shortcuts and enhance their gameplay with just the click of a button. This programmability helps to add another layer of personalisation into the mouse’s software, to ensure that it has the perfect DPI, polling rate and button controls to help you win games and defeat enemies using a mouse tailored to your exact preferences and needs.

The mouse is completely wireless, connecting via either the 2.4 GHz toggle or via a Bluetooth connection. This allows the mouse to connect to a wide variety of consoles and desktops. This connection is supported by the mouse’s 300mAh rechargeable battery that offers hours upon hours of continuous gameplay without needing to be plugged in for charging. However, even whilst charging, the mouse can operate on a wireless connection thanks to the included cable. In fact, when used with the wired connection, the mouse actually can achieve 0.35ms latency, offering even more enhanced precision and reaction time, perfect for fast-paced games where every click counts.

Overall, if you’re looking for a gaming mouse to step up your gaming set-up, where you can completely adjust

the mouse to your exact gaming needs, the Carbon X Wireless Symmetrical E-Sports Gaming Mouse is the perfect option. This would make the perfect gift for any online gamer to enhance their gameplay with a mouse that is designed to work for them.

PROS:

- Unique open carbon-fibre design to enhance comfort and durability

- Adjustable DPI and polling rate to suit your game needs

- Programmable buttons to enhance navigation from your mouse

- Long battery life is ideal for long gaming sessions

£19.99 https://paleblueearth. co.uk/collections/batteries

PALEBLUE USB-C RECHARGEABLE BATTERIES

WITH CHRISTMAS FAST APPROACHING AND A PLETHORA OF GADGETS AND TOYS SOON TO BE FILLING UP YOUR HOME, BATTERIES ARE ONE OF THE MOST IMPORTANT THINGS TO HAVE ON HAND, AND ONE OF THE THINGS THAT SO OFTEN GETS OVERLOOKED. NO ONE WANTS TO LEAVE THEIR KIDS SAD ON CHRISTMAS DAY WHEN THEY CAN’T POWER UP THEIR NEW TOY BECAUSE THERE ARE NO BATTERIES THAT ARE THE RIGHT SIZE IN THE HOUSE. TO AVOID DISAPPOINTMENT AND TO KEEP YOUR GADGETS POWERED UP, PALEBLUE HAS DEVELOPED A RANGE OF RECHARGEABLE BATTERIES THAT ARE PERFECT FOR ENSURING YOU HAVE BATTERIES ON HAND WITHOUT THE EXCESS WASTE AND THE FINANCIAL COST OF CONSTANTLY BUYING NEW DISPOSABLE BATTERIES.

I was excited to get to test out the paleblue USB-C Rechargeable Batteries because I’ve heard a lot about this kind of design in recent years. The batteries are designed to replace over 1000 disposable batteries thanks to their rechargeability, which saves lots of single-use batteries from ending up as waste, whilst saving you money in the process – two things I can very much get behind! Each battery comes in a lovely little travel case,

with a charging wire to charge your batteries. We tested out the AA and AAA batteries, and each set of 4 came with a charging cable that can charge all 4 batteries simultaneously. The cable just needs to be plugged into your usual phone charger wall plug via the USB-A end, and then each battery has a USB-C port that you plug the cable into. The batteries take around 2 hours to recharge, and each one features a glowing ring around the top which will

flash when charging, and maintain a solid colour when fully charged. Once charged, you just pop your batteries into a device, gadget or toy like any other battery for power.

I like how simple the whole charging process is, largely thanks to the included wire that allows you to charge them all simultaneously rather than one at a time, which would take a lot of effort. Plus, they don’t need any special cradle or docks to charge the batteries, which takes up space; instead, you just plug them in, charge, and they’re ready to use. Then once they aren’t needed, you can pop them back in their travel case, ready to be recharged for their next use.

Each battery delivers a constant voltage of 1.5V, offering a stable output for your gadgets, which is designed to manage even high-drain devices well.

I was glad to see that the batteries have been engineered with a multilayer safety system and smart battery management to avoid overcharging, overheating and short-circuiting for added safety. Thus, in comparison with a traditional disposable battery, the lithium-ion batteries are designed to deliver the same amount of power but will have a much longer lifespan as each one can be recharged when they run out, instead of needing to be disposed of. This is something that paleblue is very passionate about, as every aspect of the batteries has been designed with sustainability in mind. Everything from the lithium and cobalt that goes into the batteries,

to the packaging used to ship and house the batteries is made with sustainability in mind.

Overall, if you know you’re going to be needing batteries this festive season, or are looking for a more sustainable option rather than constantly replacing disposable batteries, the paleblue USB-C Rechargeable Batteries are a great option. With a set of 4 A or AAA batteries priced just under £20, they’re a small investment, but one that will pay off quickly in place of disposable batteries and will help save the planet from more waste in the process.

PROS:

• Easy recharging with included charging wire

• Flashing light to alert when charging and when fully charged

• Work just like disposable batteries, but can be recharged rather than being thrown away

• Will save you money in the long term

• Each Battery purchased potentially replaces 1,000 alkaline batteries going to land fill.

CONS:

• The batteries are more expensive than a traditional pack of AA or AAA batteries, where you might get many more for the same price. However, as a long-term investment, the paleblue USB-C Rechargeable Batteries will hopefully mean you never need to buy disposable batteries again, and so they will save you a lot of money in the long run.

£69.99

https://www.playmobil.com/en-gb/sky-trails%3A-starter-kit/71969.html

PLAYMOBIL SKY TRAILS STARTER KIT

WITH THE FESTIVE SEASON FAST APPROACHING, KNOWING WHAT TO GET YOUR LOVED ONES CAN BE A CHALLENGE, ESPECIALLY WHEN IT COMES TO TOYS. YOU WANT TO GET THE KIDS IN YOUR LIFE SOMETHING FUN, BUT SOMETHING THAT STILL HAS AN EDUCATIONAL ASPECT, WITHOUT THEM THINKING IT’S BORING! THIS IS WHERE SKY TRAILS FROM PLAYMOBIL COME IN WITH THEIR NEW PLAY SYSTEM RANGE THAT IS FOCUSED ON ENGINEERING, CONSTRUCTION AND CREATIVITY TO ALLOW KIDS TO BUILD TRACKS AND TEST OUT ROUTES WITH THE THRILLING NEW RANGE.

We got to test out the SKY TRAILS starter kit, which comes with everything you need to get started, from tubes, ramps, sliders, helix, wave tracks and a confetti funnel. All of these pieces are designed to fit together to allow your kid to build flexible constructions that they can then send the included Playmobil characters flying down. One of the big benefits is that the set requires kids to test, problem solve and then rebuild their constructions to get the best speed they can. This allows them to develop their imagination and STEM skills in a fun and creative way.

I like that the set is designed to foster creativity as your child works out how to build the trails across the room, incorporating various bits of furniture into the design. The set even comes with a table clamp, which allows part of the construction to use a table for both stability and height. This makes the ideal vantage point to start tracks and help achieve the perfect speed for each figure to go flying down. Each piece is completely modular and adjustable, and so with the starter kit, your child can really start to plan and design their construction for themselves, whilst still keeping the whole activity fun and thrilling. This would make the perfect gift for kids above the age of 7 who are into building things, to provide them with a fun and creative activity that brings together all the concepts of STEM

in a fun and accessible way. Plus, all the SKY TRAILS sets work together, so they can be purchased alongside the extension packs to add new and fun obstacles and routes for even more construction fun.

PROS:

- STEM-focused activity that is still fun and thrilling

- 231 pieces in the set for lots of building variety

- Designed to work with all the other SKY TRAILS sets for continued compatible construction

CONS:

- The set does include lots of small pieces, especially the ‘confetti’, which could easily get lost

PAD CREATOR INSTANT PRINT TABLET

£129.99

https://www.smythstoys.com/uk/en-gb/gaming-and-tech/

tablets/pad-creator-instant-print-tablet/p/239211

LET IMAGINATION AND CREATIVITY TAKE OVER WITH THE PAD CREATOR INSTANT PRINT TABLET, WHICH IS DESIGNED TO BE A CREATIVE HUB FOR KIDS. THE TABLET IS AN ALL-IN-ONE HUB FOR TAKING PICTURES, CAPTURING VIDEO, DRAWING, JOURNALING AND EXPLORING NEW CREATIVE IDEAS. HOWEVER, THE TABLET DOESN’T END THERE BECAUSE THESE CREATIONS CAN THEN BE PRINTED TO KEEP AS MEMENTOES OR TO SHARE CREATIONS WITH FRIENDS. .

The Pad Creator Instant Print Tablet is something I would have absolutely loved as a kid, and I’m very jealous it wasn’t a thing when I was growing up! The tablet comes with a stylus and features a 5MP camera, which is perfect for allowing kids to capture the world around them and take a few selfies with friends. These can then be saved to the device’s gallery or printed. However, before printing, kids can draw on their pictures and add stickers and filters to truly make them their own.

For printing, the tablet has a built-in thermal printer on the back, which allows kids to keep their creations. As the printer uses thermal printing, prints don’t need time to dry and are mess-free –great for impatient kids! Alongside pictures, the camera can be used to capture HD video footage, making it a perfect hub for your child to capture moments from their perspective. This would be great for family holidays or even recording things at Christmas, providing a great catalogue of memories for your child. In fact, the tablet also doubles as a journal where kids can write down their adventures and thoughts to reflect on the day. This can be password-protected to keep their secrets safe!

The tablet also features a great drawing and design option where kids can create unique designs by drawing and adding a range of shapes/stickers to make designs that are truly unique to them. In addition to this, the tablet also offers a range of cool templates that can be used to make personalised cards, calendars, collages and fun photo montages. I love that these can all be printed out to keep and show your kids creative designs. The kit includes 4 rolls of thermal paper, providing plenty of printing ability. However, once these run out, more will need to be purchased, so this would be an ongoing cost for the tablet.

One of the cool things about the tablet is that it has a Kids Search Engine, which is designed to be safe for kids to explore designs and get inspiration for their projects, with parents knowing they are being kept safe from inappropriate content. This safe search gives kids a little more independence with their creative designs, whilst giving parents peace of mind that their kids are safe in the process. Overall, if you have a creative child who wants to explore the world of design, then the Pad Creator Instant Print Tablet is the perfect, safe and accessible way for kids to explore the world of digital design. I like that the Kids Search provides a safe search engine to keep kids safe, whilst allowing them the independence to make new creations. This would make the perfect gift for a child or young teen this Christmas to give them a creative hub where they can explore their imagination and creativity.

PROS:

- Easy to use and simple navigation design

- Range of different stickers, designs and filters to make each picture and design unique

- 5MP camera and HD recording

- Thermal printing for instant results and no dry time needed

CONS:

- More thermal printing rolls will need to be purchased for continued use of the thermal printer once the included 4 rolls run out

https://www.smythstoys.com/uk/en-gb/toys/arts-crafts-and-music/crafts/slime-and- putty/so-slime-yummy-twist-and-slime-mixer-set/p/249252

BAKING HAS NEVER BEEN SO FUN WITH THE SO SLIME YUMMY TWIST & SLIME MIXER SET THAT COMBINES THE FUN OF SLIME AND BAKING TOGETHER IN ONE UNIQUE KIT.

Inside the kit, kids can mix together slimes with various colours and decorate to produce three treatthemed recipes. I like that the set has a cooking theme, with the manual mixer that lets kids feel like they’re mixing up their own baked creations. The three baked creations include a Lemon Pie, a Sweet Cake and a Lava Cake. These all have various mixes in packs and bottles of dye to produce the right cake-themed colour.

I love that the set includes a recipe book that can be followed to produce each type of ‘cake’; however, the set also allows kids to fully explore and make their own baked creations out of slime. Once created, each slime provides a fun sensory experience thanks to the fluffy texture that now includes various decorations and charms, which also look super cute!

If you have a child in your life who loves slime, then the So Slime Yummy Twist and Slime Mixer set is the perfect choice this Christmas to combine the fun

of baking with this slime-focused kit. Plus, with the stand mixer inside, it can then be used with other slimes to help mix new creations for long-term creativity from the set.

PROS:

- Cool stand mixer that helps to mix the slimes up like they are baked goods

- Three recipes to follow for an easy activity that looks good and is fun to do

- Variety of different decorations and accessories to make each creation unique

CONS:

- The recipes can only really be done once as all the slimes and decorations become mixed up – but then they provide a variety of different slimes to play with and further mix for new blended creations

SO BOMB HAND SPA & NAIL SALON

£19.99

https://www.smythstoys.com/uk/en-gb/

toys/fashion-and-dolls/cosmetics/so-

bomb-hand-spa-and-nail-salon/p/249270

HAVE A SPA AND PAMPER NIGHT AT HOME WITH THE SO BOMB HAND SPA AND NAIL SALON. THE KIT IS DESIGNED TO BE BOTH A FUN ACTIVITY AND A RELAXING EXPERIENCE TO MAKE BATH BOMBS AND USE THEM IN THE BUBBLING HAND SPA. THEN, TREAT YOURSELF TO A MANICURE WITH THE INCLUDED NAIL POLISH AND STICKERS. THE SET, DESIGNED FOR KIDS OVER THE AGE OF 8, IS THE PERFECT BLEND OF CREATIVITY AND FUN FOR A PAMPER-FOCUSED EVENING.

The first step of the So Bomb Hand Spa and Nail Salon is the creation of the bath bombs that will later be used in the hand spa. To create these, the set comes with 4 sachets of citric acid powder and 4 colour sachets of baking soda, which are mixed to produce a range of different bath bombs. Kids can choose their favourite colour and then their preferred scented sachet to mix together. These are them pressed into the Bath Bomb mould, producing cute little bath bombs, perfect for putting in the hand spa. The scents in the set include pineapple, cherry and lavender, which provide a soothing and luxurious hand spa experience.

Once the bath bombs have been created, the hand spa is then filled with water and turned on, where the top blue waterfall

attachment begins to work, producing a lovely soothing waterfall sound. This is then paired with the bath bombs to create a fizzing sensory experience. However, the kit doesn’t end there are as it also includes a nail file, some stickers and two nail polishes to end the whole experience with a manicure. The whole kit is super fun and provides a great activity for kids that is both creative and pamper-focused. The set has enough materials to make 16 small bath bombs, and once used up, the kit can be used as just a hand spa. This would make the perfect gift for any kid who loves a little pamper session, by combining the fun of creating bath bombs with the relaxing joy of using the hand spa and nail accessories.

PROS:

- 3 different scents and 4 different colours for a variety of bath bomb options

- Fun waterfall feature for a great sensory experience

- Both creative and pamper focused

CONS:

- I would have liked to see another sticker sheet and more nail polish colour options

TOYS & GAMES

https://uk.myfirst.tech/products/myfirst-camera-insta-20

MYFIRST INSTANT PRINT CAMERA

I LOVE USING AN INSTANT PRINT CAMERA TO CAPTURE FUN MOMENTS WITH MY FRIENDS AND FAMILY AND THEN PRINT THEM OUT INSTANTLY AS A REMINDER OF THE OCCASION. I CAN THEN KEEP THESE IMAGES AS A PHYSICAL COLLECTION OF MEMORIES OVER THE YEARS. THEREFORE, I WAS EXCITED TO SEE THAT MYFIRST HAVE DEVELOPED AN INSTANT PRINT CAMERA DESIGNED SPECIFICALLY FOR KIDS TO ALLOW THEM TO ENJOY THE SAME FUN OF INSTANTLY PRINTING MEMORIES, IN AN UNCOMPLICATED AND CHILD-FRIENDLY WAY.

The myFirst Instant Print camera is the first of its kind, offering a dual screen to snap, print and share memories in a single unit. The camera features a 16MP back camera and a 2MP selfie lens that captures high-quality images and video in 1080p. The camera features pre-loaded frames and filters, as well as customisable stickers, so kids can make each shot their own before they are instantly printed.

The printer uses ink-free thermal printing technology, which means there’s no messy ink cartridges needed, and instead, with a few simple clicks, the Instant Print Camera will print your pictures in under 10 seconds. The Instant Print Camera comes with three rolls of high-quality thermal paper for all your printing needs. However, as the Instant Print Camera uses thermal imaging, the images are produced in black and white, but myFirst are currently in the process of developing Colour Burst Thermal Paper, which will allow for printing in colour. This would need to be purchased in addition to the Instant Print Camera if colour printing was wanted.

One of the fun parts of the Instant Print Camera is that it

features a PixTure OLED Screen on the front, which can be used to showcase emojis, status updates, charging progress and more with fun pixel-style animations. Then, the 3” IPS colour display on the back is perfect for easy navigation and shot framing, to help kids perfect their shots and capture the world around them with ease.

I like that the camera has been designed for kids, with its pocket-sized shape and easy navigation to help kids explore the world around them and really delve into their creativity as they take pictures and videos. I’m glad that the images and videos captured can also be transferred to your computer to keep for many years to come, alongside the physical prints from the camera itself. If you have a child who is always trying to steal your camera, then the Instant Print Camera from myFirst is an excellent Christmas present option to give them their own camera that is childfriendly, mess-free, and really focuses on helping kids explore their own creativity.

PROS:

- Thermal mess-free printing

- Large IPS screen for easy navigation and picture framing

- Fun PixTure OLED Screen for added personalisation

- Photos and videos can easily be transferred to a computer to keep forever alongside the prints

CONS:

- The thermal printing paper will need to be placed once the included thermal paper rolls run out, which is an ongoing added cost

TOYS & GAMES

£18.99 https://www.thamesandkosmos.co.uk/ product/vendetta-masters-of-crime/

MASTERS OF CRIME: VENDETTA

AS A BIG FAN OF TRUE CRIME, I WAS SUPER EXCITED TO GET TO TRY OUT VENDETTA, PART OF THE MASTERS OF CRIME SERIES. THE VENDETTA STORY BEGINS WITH YOU AS A PLAYER BEING SUMMONED TO THE HOUSE OF THE GODFATHER, WHERE HE TELLS YOU THAT HE FEARS THERE IS A TRAITOR AMONGST THE RANKS OF THE FAMILY. YOU ARE THEN SET ON THE MISSION TO UNCOVER THE ROGUE MAFIA MEMBER BY WORKING YOUR WAY THROUGH THE PLENTIFUL MATERIALS IN THE VENDETTA BOX.

One of the best things about Vendetta is the immersive experience you get from the game, as you read through all the documents, which slowly help to form the story before you. As you work through it, every decision you make affects how the story develops, and this makes it even more fun.

I loved that beyond the materials in the box, Vendetta also has online maps, voice messages and websites that you need to use to help navigate your way through the story and uncover the traitor. This adds a further immersive element as you really feel a part of the Vendetta world. I loved getting to tackle this with some true crime-loving friends as we sleuthed our way through the game to uncover the traitor for ourselves.

Whilst I won’t ruin the story path we took and who the traitor was, I will say the whole thing was super fun. It did take

us a good few hours to carefully sift through all of the materials available to discover the culprit. If you’re used to escape room or true crime mystery games, then Vendetta will be a fun challenge and will test your puzzling capabilities. However, even if you’re new to this type of game, you can access helpful hints and prompts online if you do get a little stuck.

If you want an immersive murder mystery game that will have you putting on your detective hat, the Masters of Crime series games are a great choice. Each will have you carefully working your way through all the materials to reveal your own storyline to find the traitor of your story. This would make a great present for the true crime fan in your life and provide a great evening of puzzling fun to any group of people this festive season.

PROS:

- The story is driven by your decisions, so playing is a little different for each group

- A lot of materials, online websites, maps and voice messages to listen to for an immersive experience

- Complex puzzle, but hints and help can be found online

CONS:

- Some aspects of the puzzle are one use, so they may need a little adjustment for repeat plays with other groups

TOYS & GAMES

EXIT ADVENT CALENDAR: THE INTERGALACTIC RACE

£39.99 https://www.thamesandkosmos.co.uk/product/exit- advent-intergalactic-race/

HAVING PLAYED MANY EXIT GAMES OVER THE YEARS, I WAS SUPER EXCITED TO SEE THAT THE BRAND HAD ADVENT CALENDARS THAT TRANSFORM EVERY DAY IN THE LEAD UP TO CHRISTMAS INTO ITS OWN LITTLE PUZZLE-SOLVING ACTIVITY. AFTER COMPLETING THE 2024 MISSING HOLLYWOOD STAR VERSION, I WAS THRILLED TO GET THE CHANCE TO REVIEW THE NEW INTERGALACTIC RACE VERSION TO UNCOVER WHAT MYSTERIES EXIT WILL HAVE FOR ME THIS TIME.

The 2025 EXIT: The Intergalactic Race Advent Calendar sees you taking part in the huge 24-day Le Mond race. Behind each door, you are faced with different riddles, clues and puzzles to figure out, and only then will the next day’s room be revealed to you, and you can go further in the intergalactic race.

If you are used to the types of puzzles that EXIT create, you will know that each one often takes a little creative thinking, from viewing each riddle from a different perspective, reading between the lines and even sometimes looking for clues on the game box itself. However, even if you are not, the Advent Calendar is beginner-friendly and helps you to get into the escape room mindset. I would say if you’re used to the more intense EXIT games, this isn’t as difficult as you might want, but it still makes a fun Christmas advent calendar that is a little bit different from the traditional sweet treats that everyone gets! However, if you do get stuck on a puzzle, the advent calendar does include a help book, so you know you are on track

if you’re getting a little stuck on what is going on.

Occasionally, you might be completely stumped, but this could just be from an object in that day’s room being missing, which can be a little confusing. So if you’re really stuck, get a friend to look at the refill guide on the Thames and Kosmos website, as from here they can check everything you need to solve the puzzle in the correct compartment.

Overall, whether you’re a seasoned veteran in the EXIT game world or this is your first step into their brilliant at-home escape roomstyle games, the Advent Calendar is an excellent entry to EXIT’s mechanics. It would make an excellent choice for any EXIT enthusiasts like myself to make the festive period a long-running escape room and even provide a lot of family fun as everyone works together to solve each puzzle

PROS:

- Escape room-style advent calendar that turns each day into a fun puzzle to solve

- Good alternative to sweet Advent calendars

- Range of puzzles and riddles with each day different

CONS:

- Some of the pieces can fall into the wrong compartments, so you may need help from a friend or family member if a puzzle isn’t making sense to check that the right pieces are in the correct door

£19.99

TOYS/GAMES

https://www.thamesandkosmos.co.uk/product/robotic-jellyfish-nightlight/

ROBOTIC JELLYFISH NIGHTLIGHT KIT

THE BEST GIFTS FOR KIDS ARE ONES THAT ARE BOTH FUN AND PROVIDE AN EDUCATIONAL OPPORTUNITY. THEREFORE, I WAS EXCITED TO REVIEW THE ROBOTIC JELLYFISH NIGHTLIGHT KIT FROM THAMES AND KOSMOS, WHICH AIMS TO COMBINE THESE TWO ELEMENTS SO WELL, PROVIDING KIDS WITH EVERYTHING THEY WILL NEED TO BUILD THEIR VERY OWN MECHANICAL JELLYFISH NIGHTLIGHT.

The Robotic Jellyfish Nightlight Kit from Thames and Kosmos is a great gift for the festive season, offering a fun STEMfocused activity and leaving you with a beautiful and mesmerising decorative lamp. The kit comes with everything you will need to put the lamp together, including a planetary gear system, which allows kids to learn about the mechanics in a fun and practical way. Once put together, the jellyfish can move up and down, with the tentacles moving in multiple patterns and even spinning to mimic the undulating movement of a jellyfish in water.

One of the best parts is that the jellyfish lights up with three primary colour RGB lights, and these then combine to produce six different colour combinations. This helps kids to understand how primary colours mix to create different colours, and in the process, produce a colourful night lamp that looks great in your room.

Overall, the Robotic Jellyfish Nightlight Kit from Thames & Kosmos makes the perfect gift this festive season for a creative kid who loves to build things and understand how things work. The kit provides a great insight into mechanics and physics, ensuring parents know it’s an educational gift as well as a fun one. Plus, I love that once built, you get to keep the nightlight as a trophy of your accomplishment, which, if nothing else, looks incredible in your room as s nightlight.

PROS:

- STEM-focused gift that promotes education in a fun, crafty kit

- Colourful and moving jellyfish nightlight

- Easy guide to help with assembly

CONS:

- Lots of small components, which can be a little fiddly to put together – so may need some help from parents for younger kids

£3.50-£30

https://bladeandrose.co.uk/collections/christmas

BLADE & ROSE CHRISTMAS COLLECTION

CHRISTMAS IS ONE OF THE MOST FUN TIMES OF THE YEAR FOR THE WHOLE FAMILY, WHERE EVERYONE CAN COME TOGETHER AND CELEBRATE. FOR ME, THE HOLIDAYS ARE AN EXCUSE TO WEAR A SLIGHTLY CHEESY CHRISTMAS JUMPER, TO GET EVERYONE IN THE FESTIVE SPIRIT. THEREFORE, TO ENSURE THAT EVEN THE YOUNGEST MEMBERS OF THE FAMILY DON’T MISS OUT ON THE FUN FESTIVE OUTFITS, BLADE & ROSE HAVE RELEASED THEIR OWN CHRISTMAS COLLECTION DESIGNED TO BRING A LITTLE FESTIVE CHEER TO YOUR BABY’S WARDROBE.

Across Blade & Rose’s Christmas Collection, there is a variety of festive clothing pieces from adorable leggings and tops to rompers and even socks. We got to review the Snowman Leggings (£10), which feature a super cute gingerbread man and Christmas tree pattern, with a snowman print on the bottom. The bright red and green colourway makes the leggings perfect for Christmas, providing a fun, festive-themed look for your little one. The leggings feature a wide waistband that ensures they are super comfortable, with no other seams to avoid any irritation when wearing. I like that the entire collection is made from super soft and supportive materials that are designed to not only be cute but also super functional for all-day wearing. The leggings specifically are made from a super soft cotton that has a little extra stretch in the bottom for a nappy, whilst remaining lightweight for easy wearing. Therefore, unlike some festive clothing that can be a bit scratchy, Blade & Rose’s collection champions comfort and wearability, ensuring the pieces are something your child can get a lot of wear out of during the festive period.

Across the entire range, each piece brings together festive cheer with patterns of snowmen, Christmas puddings, reindeer and Santa himself across the various tops, rompers, dresses,

jumpers and socks in the range. By pairing a few items together, you can achieve a cute and cohesive festive look for your child that is perfect for Christmas gatherings. Plus, almost all of the range can be purchased in sizes from 0-6 months, and all the way up to 3-4 years. This wide range ensures that there’s something for every child, which is especially useful if you have multiple children under 4 and they love to match with their siblings.

However, as the festive period comes to an end, your child is likely to grow out of the items by next Christmas. Therefore, Blade & Rose have a Preloved Marketplace section on their website where parents can upload Blade & Rose clothing pieces that have been gently loved and are no longer needed. This allows parents to buy second-hand clothes that may only be worn for a short period at a discounted price, and in the process, help parents to make some money back on their items. This helps to stop perfectly good clothing from ending up in landfill and helps other children enjoy the clothing that often looks as good as new.

Overall, if you’re looking for a festive outfit for your baby, then Blade & Rose have you covered. Each item is super soft, made to be functional and looks the part for any festive gathering. If you’ve got a festive event coming up, or just want a cute outfit for your child to wear this festive season, Blade & Rose has a great collection at affordable prices to add a little festive joy to your baby’s wardrobe this Christmas.

PROS:

- Super soft materials that are great for sensitive skin

- Functional designs that are comfortable to wear all day

- Available in a wide range of sizes, perfect for kids up to 4 years

CONS:

- Often themed/festive pieces will only fit your child for only one festive season as they continue to grow, which may make them less affordable –but check out Blade & Rose’s Preloved Marketplace, where you could resell or buy second-hand festive items to save on the cost and help avoid perfectly good clothing going to waste

£109.90

https://www.babybjorn.co.uk/products/

baby-carriers/baby-carrier-mini

BABYBJÖRN BABY CARRIER MINI

THE FIRST FEW MONTHS AS A NEW PARENT ARE HARD BUT REWARDING AS PARENTS GET TO KNOW THEIR BABY, WHILST BATTLING WITH NEW FEEDING AND NAP SCHEDULES. WITH THIS TIME BEING SO TRICKY BUT VITAL, BABYBJÖRN HAVE DEVELOPED A NEWBORN BABY CARRIER TO HELP MAKE THOSE FIRST FEW MONTHS A LITTLE BIT EASIER. THE BABY CARRIER MINI IS DESIGNED TO KEEP YOUR BABY CLOSE TO YOU, WHERE THEY FEEL SAFE AND COSY.

The Baby Carrier Mini is designed specifically for newborns, offering a high level of support and comfort even from the very first few days of life. The baby carrier we got to review came in a lovely light beige 3D jersey material that feels super soft, whilst still having the right amount of stretch and support to carefully cradle your baby.

One of the big benefits of the Baby Carrier Mini is that it is designed to be super easy to put on and take off. To put the baby carrier straps on, the design is similar to that of a rucksack slipping over your shoulders. The straps are then clipped at the front and can easily be adjusted to get a secure fit to your body. The baby carrying part, then clips into the straps with who main clips at the bottom, and then slots into the top of the arm straps, with two further clips at the top. The top can then be folded up or down to provide extra support to your baby’s neck, depending on their age and positioning in the carrier. This level of support makes the carrier ideal for short wearing sessions where your baby can get comfy and fall asleep, whilst helping you stay hands-free – ideal in those busy first few months! Thankfully, BabyBjörn have also designed the baby carrier to be just as easy

to take off as it is to put on, so should your baby fall asleep whilst in the carrier, you can easily transfer them out of the carrier and into their own cot without disturbing them too much.

As with all the baby carriers made by BabyBjörn, the Baby Carrier Mini is recognised by the International Hip Dysplasia Institute as a hip-healthy product, providing the necessary level of support and positioning of your baby’s hips. The baby carrier is therefore great for carrying your baby facing you (or facing away from 5 months), knowing that their hips are being supported. Plus, the material of the baby carrier also meets OEK-TEX Standard 100 –Class 1 certifications, which ensures that it has no harsh chemicals, and so it’s soft enough for your baby’s sensitive skin, and safe should your child taste it. Therefore, the overall design of the BabyBjörn Baby Carrier Mini is great, especially for newborns who just want to be close to their parent.

If you know someone who is a soon-to-be parent or someone who has a newborn, a baby carrier that is specifically designed for those first few months is a great gift option. Baby Carriers provide a great way for parents to be a little more hands-free, whilst still feeling close to their baby. Therefore, gifting a baby carrier that is designed for those early days is a perfect way to support new parents with a tool to make naps and getting things done just that little bit easier.

PROS:

- Super soft and stretchy material that feels lovely and has no harsh chemicals in it

- Easy to put on and take off, which is ideal for transferring your baby out of the carrier whilst they’re asleep

- Machine washable design for easy clean-ups

- Supports babies from 0-12 months, and up to 11kg.

CONS:

-The light beige colourway is lovely, but I do worry about it showing small messes more quickly than other colours. However, the material is good for spot cleaning to allow for easy clean-ups between washes.

MAMAS AND PAPAS CHRISTMAS COLLECTION

£8£45

https://www.mamasandpapas.com/ collections/christmas-baby-clothing

CHRISTMAS TIME IS SPECIAL FOR ALL THE FAMILY, BUT ESPECIALLY FOR KIDS AS THEY COUNT DOWN THE DAYS UNTIL SANTA COMES TO VISIT. MAMAS AND PAPAS KNOW HOW SPECIAL THIS TIME OF YEAR IS FOR FAMILIES, AND SO HAVE RELEASED AN ENTIRE CHRISTMAS COLLECTION THAT PROVIDES KIDS WITH COMFORTABLE YET FESTIVE CLOTHES PERFECT FOR CELEBRATING THIS HOLIDAY SEASON.

We got to review the Night Before Christmas Pyjamas (£20) set from Mamas and Papas, which features a super soft long sleeve top and leggings set. The set is made from 100% cotton and is extremely soft, making it perfect for sensitive skin. Across the top and trousers is an adorable festive print with reindeer, stars, candy canes, gingerbread men and Santa himself. The print is lovely, and when set against the cream colour of the top and trousers, it gives a subtle yet festive look perfect for Christmas. The pyjamas have been designed with kids in mind, and so feature a comfortable elasticated waistband for easy wearing, and a stretchy neck on the top for easy dressing and comfortable wearing. The overall design of the pyjamas is super great, with every aspect from the design to the materials being designed to be extremely comfortable – just what you need from festive pyjamas! This focus on material quality and design is evident across the entire Mamas and Papas Christmas Collection, ensuring that every item, from everyday clothing pieces to pyjamas, is designed with comfort and functionality in mind.

In terms of cleaning, the pyjamas can be easily thrown in the washing machine at 40 degrees and then tumble dried on cool. This makes the set super easy to wash between uses, ensuring that your child always has their favourite set of festive pyjamas ready to wear across the whole festive season!

Overall, if you’re looking for some festive clothes for your kids this holiday season, Mamas and Papas are a great option offering affordably priced clothes that look cute, feel soft and are designed with comfort in mind. With prices ranging from £8 to £45 across the Christmas Collection, you’re sure to find a cute Christmas outfit that doesn’t break the bank but looks the part this festive season.

PROS:

- Super soft materials that are good for sensitive skin

- Comfortable designs that also look super cute

- Items are easy to wash

CONS:

- Often, Christmas clothes will only fit your child for one festive season before they grow out of them, so some higher-priced options may not be as cost-efficient for just one Christmas. However, be sure to hand down the items to friends or family to reduce waste and help keep these clothes providing festive joy for many years to come!

MAMAS AND PAPAS CHRISTMAS STOCKING

https://www.mamasandpapas.com/products/

large-stocking-knit-red-48057xm01

ONE OF THE MOST EXCITING PARTS OF BEING A CHILD WAS COMING DOWNSTAIRS ON CHRISTMAS MORNING TO OPEN MY PRESENTS. OUR FAMILY ALWAYS STARTED WITH OUR STOCKINGS, BEFORE WE MOVED ON TO LARGER PRESENTS, AND SO HAVING A CHRISTMAS STOCKING IS ONE OF MY FAVOURITE TRADITIONS. THEREFORE, I WAS EXCITED TO SEE MAMAS AND PAPAS HAVE THEIR OWN RANGE OF KNITTED CHRISTMAS STOCKINGS THAT BRING THE CHRISTMAS SPIRIT.

We were sent the red ‘Ho Ho Ho’ Christmas stocking from Mamas and Papas, which features a lovely thick knitted design in the classic bright red colour for the holidays. The wool feels super soft and cosy, and then across the front ‘ho ho ho’ is embroidered onto the stocking in white alongside a candy cane. The overall design is very classic, making it the perfect stocking for Christmas.

At the top of the stocking, there is a matching red loop, making it easy to attach to stocking to your fireplace or staircase. Plus, the stocking even comes with a small soft Santa toy that can be removed. This is perfect for putting at the top of the stocking once it’s filled to say Santa has been, or to give your child as an extra gift for the festive season.

The stocking comes in a great size, perfect for putting plenty of little stocking stuffers without having to break the bank to fill it up. A few little toys, soft toys and some snacks and the stocking will be ready to continue on Christmas stocking traditions with even the youngest member of the family. Plus, thanks to the lovely yet classic design, the stocking is perfect for use for many years to come as a beloved keepsake that your kids can look forward to receiving every Christmas.

PROS:

- Lovely soft design in a classic red for Christmas

- Good size for plenty of stocking stuffers

- Makes a lovely keepsake for many years to come

- Included an additional free Santa toy

CONS:

- The stocking is a little pricey for just one, but due to its quality, I’m sure it will last for many years, making the price more justified as a lovely keepsake

£11.65 https://www.tracklements.co.uk/product/ cracking-christmas-collection-gift-pack/

TRACKLEMENTS CRACKING CHRISTMAS COLLECTION GIFT PACK

AFTER GETTING TO TRY SOME TRACKLEMENTS GOODIES LAST YEAR, WE WERE THRILLED TO GET TO TRY THEIR NEW CHRISTMAS COLLECTION! AS PART OF THE NEW CHRISTMAS COLLECTION, TRACKLEMENTS HAVE RELEASED THEIR CRACKING CHRISTMAS COLLECTION GIFT PACK, INCLUDING A SELECTION OF THREE DELIGHTFUL CONDIMENTS PERFECT FOR ANY FESTIVE GRAZING BOARD.

In the Cracking Christmas Collection Gift Pack there is the Christmas Spice Chutney, a Cranberry, Port and Orange Sauce and a Sticky Fig Relish. Much like all of the Tracklements goodies we’ve tried before, these were all absolutely delicious.

The Christmas Spice Chutney is the perfect pairing for sandwiches or cheese boards to add a festive spice to any dish. With apples, onions, cranberries and currents inside it brings together the fruits of the season, as well as some lovely spice from the chillies, ginger, nutmeg and cinnamon inside. I’m a big fan of cinnamon, nutmeg and allspice during the festive season, so bringing all of these together in this chutney really makes it stand out as a special treat for Christmas.

The next condiment is a Sticky Fig Relish, which provides a rich and tangy flavour to any dish. I’d never tried anything with fig in it before so this was a fun and tasty treat. Each jar contains figs soaked in spiced vinegar which are then cooked in dark sugar to make a fruity, tangy yet sweet relish that hits all the elements of

umami. This is lovely when paired with soft cheeses and so it will be perfect for adding to cheese boards this festive season.

The final condiment in the set is the Cranberry, Port and Orange sauce. Now if you like things tart then this is the perfect sauce for you. Made with whole cranberries, and blended with the rich taste of port and a hint of orange, the sauce cuts through meals with its punchy flavour. This makes the perfect addition to any rich or particularly cheesy snack or sandwich to provide a tart but delicious taste.

The entire Cracking Christmas Collection Gift Set is perfect for any festive gathering to provide a range of delicious Christmas flavours that pair perfectly with all the rich and delicious food of the season. From cheese and wine evenings to pairing with a leftovers sandwiches on Boxing day, the set makes the perfect gift for any foodie this festive season.

PROS:

- Lovely range of flavours that are perfect for the festive season

- Each jar is around 100g providing the perfect size for any gathering or party

- All are gluten free and vegan-friendly

£25.25

https://www.tracklements.co.uk/

product/12-days-of-tracklements-gift-pack/

12 DAYS OF TRACKLEMENTS GIFT PACK

EVERY YEAR I’M ALWAYS ON THE HUNT FOR A NEW ADVENT CALENDAR, BUT THESE OFTEN FOCUS ON SWEET TREATS THAT DON’T ALWAYS INTEREST ME. THEREFORE, I WAS SUPER EXCITED TO SEE THAT TRACKLEMENTS HAVE ENTERED THE MARKET WITH THEIR OWN 12 DAYS OF TRACKLEMENTS GIFT PACK, FEATURING 12 DELIGHTFUL CONDIMENTS PERFECT FOR TRYING A WHOLE BUNCH OF TRACKLEMENTS GOODIES AND BRINGING SOME FESTIVE CHEER.

The Gift Pack contains 12 small jars ranging from ketchups, to chutneys, marmalades to sauces – to mention just a few! Each jar provides a perfect taste of a wide range of Tracklements treats, and is the perfect gift for any foodie this festive season.

So, what’s included? – if you don’t want the contents to be spoiled maybe skip ahead!

The set contains a Sweet Mustard Ketchup, a Proper Tomato Ketchup, a Quintessential Brown Sauce and a Rich and Creamy Mayonnaise. These classics were a great treat to discover inside having tried a few of these before. Each one is perfect for sandwiches or as a dip for all your favourite fried foods.

The 12 Days of Tracklements Gift Pack also includes a Robust Wholegrain Mustard, Strong English Mustard and Strong Horseradish Cream. These are great for adding a bit of heat and spice to your dishes, and as someone who loves mustard, I was so glad to see these inside to add a little kick to my food. Each one provides a lovely bit of heat, and make the perfect addition to any roast dinner!

The final 5 condiments include a Caramelised Onion Marmalade, Tomato and Chilli Chitney, Apricot and Ginger Chutney, Sticky Fig Relish, and Chilli & Red Pepper Relish. The Caramelised Onion Marmalade provides the perfect sweet addition to any savoury snack. But for a particularly spicy kick the Tomato and Chilli Chutney and Fresh Chilli Jam are perfect – but be warned these are especially

fiery! However, to cool you down the Apricot and Ginger Chutney and Sticky Fig Relish provides a lovely sweet and rich alternative, perfect for pairing with any cheese board.

Across all 12 jars, the Tracklements Gift Pack provides a perfect taster of each condiment to allow you to explore traditional flavours, and even some you may not have tried before. Whilst the small jars did often leave me wanting more, they’re a perfect way to try a load of chutneys, relishes and sauces to help decide your favourite before you buy the full size jars from Tracklements. Therefore, if you have a big foodie in your life, the 12 Days of Tracklements Gift Pack provide the perfect entry way to the company’s condiments and provide a lovely change to the typical advent calendars on the market. I’d definitely be thrilled to be given this for the countdown to Christmas over some chocolate any day!

PROS:

- 12 different condiments perfect for counting down to Christmas

- Perfect blend of sweet, spicy and classic flavours to suit anyone’s taste

- Vegetarian and gluten free condiments ideal for those who can’t eat traditional chocolate or sweet-based advent calendars

CONS:

- The jars behind each door are quite small – but they’re ideal as a taster of each condiment before you buy a full sized one

HOUSEHOLD

HORL 3 CRUISE KNIFE SHARPENER

£99.00 https://www.horl.com/gb/en/sharpeners/horl3-cruise/

TRYING TO COOK WITH A BLUNT KNIFE IS SUPER DIFFICULT AND OFTEN LEADS TO MORE ACCIDENTS WHEN KNIVES SLIP INSTEAD OF SLICING INTO YOUR FOOD. HOWEVER, KNOWING HOW TO SHARPEN YOUR KNIFE CAN BE A REAL STRUGGLE, TOO. THIS IS WHERE HORL COMES IN TO TAKE AWAY THE CONFUSION, AND DELIVER A RANGE OF EASY-TO-USE, FUNCTIONAL AND AESTHETICALLY PLEASING KNIFE SHARPENERS THAT ARE PERFECT FOR KEEPING YOUR BLADES SHARP.

We got to test out the HORL 3 Cruise Knife Sharpener, which is designed with two sharpening angles and a high-quality diamond disc to perfectly sharpen your knives. On first glance, you might be wondering how a cylinder and a block can be used to sharpen your knives – but it’s super simple. You just place down the magnetic block, which features two different angles on each side. For most kitchen knives, the 20° angle is perfect. Once this is placed, you magnetise your knife to it, blade side up, so the knife blade is angled with the block’s 20° angle. Then you need the knife sharpening cylinder, which features a diamond disc on one side and a stainlesssteel disc on the other. Taking the diamond disc side, you place this against the blade that is at the perfect angle, thanks to the block, and you then roll the knife sharpening cylinder against the length of the blade, perfectly sharpening just the edge. The whole movement feels super secure as the pieces magnetise together thanks to the strong hold of the HORL Grip Pad, so you just have to keep a steady pressure and movement to perfectly hone the edge of your knife in a few simple strokes.

The diamond disc is designed to perfectly grind the edge of your knife to get it super sharp and ideal for cutting. Then, to remove any burr or grinding residue, you just switch round the sharpening cylinder and place the stainless-steel disc on the other end against your knife edge and repeat the process. This helps to remove any residue left over and produce a perfectly smooth knife edge that is ready to put to use. I love how simple the HORL 3 Cruise Knife Sharpener is to use, and it takes all the guesswork out

of having to make sure you’re sharpening your knife at the perfect angle - as is the case with other sharpeners and honing steels. In fact, the HORL 3 Cruise even has a 15° angle on the other side of the block, which is perfect for particularly fine blades, especially those made from high-quality carbon or Damascus steel. By providing two angles for sharpening, the HORL 3 Cruise is super versatile and makes the perfect kitchen accessory to keep all your kitchen knives sharp and ready to assist you in your culinary adventures.

One of the things I especially love about the HORL 3 Cruise Knife Sharpener is that it is made from ocean-bound plastic, making it more sustainable. HORL have worked with their Swiss partners #tide®, who collect plastic and process it into granulate. This then has a small amount of pigment added to it and is used to create the knife sharpener. This gives the overall look of the knife sharpener a lovely, sandy look, highlighting where the plastic used in the construction has come from, whilst adding a lovely, sustainable aspect to its design.

Overall, if you have a budding chef in your life, one of the best gifts you can get them is a great knife sharpener, and the HORL 3 Cruise is a great option for this. The HORL 3 Cruise provides a versatile range of angles, supported by a strong magnetic grip and a diamond disc to perfectly hone your knives every time. Priced just under £100, this makes an ideal luxury present for the festive season to add a touch of luxury to the kitchen, whilst being super functional too!

PROS:

- Super strong magnetic HORL Grip Pad for secure holds and stability when in use

- Easy to use design that takes the guesswork out of getting the perfect angle –plus it even has 2 angles for enhanced versatility

- Aesthetically pleasing unit that looks good in your kitchen as an accessory when not in use

CONS:

- The diamond grinding disc provides a good all-round sharpening function, but this can’t be interchanged with other discs for more specialised sharpening needs

£149.90

https://wacaco.com/products/pixapresso

WACACO PIXAPRESSO

WHETHER YOU’RE A COFFEE ADDICT OR SIMPLY A CASUAL COFFEE DRINKER, THERE’S NO DENYING THAT A LOVELY, SMOOTH ESPRESSO IS ONE OF THE BEST WAYS TO START THE DAY – NO MATTER WHERE YOU ARE. THE ABILITY TO EXPERIENCE A PERFECTLY BREWED ESPRESSO NO MATTER WHERE YOU ARE HAS NOW BEEN MADE EVEN EASIER WITH THE NEW PIXAPRESSO FROM WACACO. THE PIXAPRESSO IS THE COMPANY’S FIRST COMPACT, ELECTRIC PORTABLE ESPRESSO MAKER DESIGNED TO DELIVER SMOOTH AND CREAMY ESPRESSOS ANYWHERE FROM A SMALL KITCHEN TO A CAMPSITE.

The Pixapresso is remarkably small, standing only 181mm in height and weighing 755g. The unit is about 25% of the size of comparable machines, making it the perfect small and portable unit to fit into a small kitchen or student dorm, or for ensuring you start the day right for any outdoor adventure. Despite its size, the Pixapresso does not sacrifice power; instead, the unit is designed to deliver up to 5 espressos, 8 ristrettos or 2 lungo shots from a single charge, or up to 200 extractions from preheated water. This high power ensures that you can brew the perfect cup no matter where you are, and all in one portable and rechargeable unit. To achieve this, the Pixapresso builds on the innovation of Wacaco’s previous Minipresso model, but now offers even better technology, allowing you to heat and extract an espresso shot with just the push of a button. The Pixapresso is super easy to use; you just add your chosen coffee grounds to the adjustable 8-16g basket, fill the water tank, and then choose your preferred brewing settings on the intuitive touch display. Then, pressing the power button, you can start the brewing process, delivering you the perfect rich espresso with a delicious, thick crema every time.

To further enhance its functionality, the Pixapresso allows you to fully tailor your espresso to your exact preferences with

temperature, pre-infusion and shot volume adjustments. For example, the Pixapresso’s advanced heating system allows you to perfectly heat your water to the optimal brewing temperature based on your preferred taste and coffee roast. This ability to fully adjust the unit to your specific coffee preferences ensures you can make the perfect cup anytime and anywhere with the rich flavours and aromas that make a morning coffee so special.

One of the things I love about the Pixapresso is that it is also compatible with NS capsules, which include Nespresso Original capsules. This means that not only does the Pixapresso support ground coffee, but for even greater compatibility, you can also use coffee capsules in the unit to make your coffee experience even simpler.

Overall, the Pixapresso is a super functional, portable and easy to use espresso machine that makes getting the perfect coffee to start the day even easier – no matter your space, location or time. The unit can be used on the go or makes the perfect addition to a small kitchen or student dorm set up, so you don’t have to sacrifice on a good coffee for the sake of convenience. Instead, you can get a coffee shop-quality espresso shots at home or on the go, without the fuss. If you have a coffee addict in your life who is always on the go, or a student who loves coffee and wants to save some money by making coffee in their dorm without the need for a giant coffee machine, the Pixapresso is a brilliant, functional and compact coffee machine delivering you perfect espresso shots every time.

PROS:

- Portable design ideal for making espresso no matter where you are

- Intuitive touch display for easy adjustability

- Compatible with both ground coffee and NS capsules for greater functionality

- Powerful 300mAh 3S battery which can be charged in just 2 and ½ hours

HOUSEHOLD

MICROPLANE CONTAINER GRATER

£39.95

https://www.johnlewis.com/microplane- bamboo-micro-grater-cashmere/p113996770

I THINK WE CAN ALL AGREE THAT MOST DISHES ARE MADE A BIT BETTER WITH A SPRINKLING OF CHEESE ON TOP, AND SO MOST MEALS, I HAVE A HANDY GRATER AND A BLOCK OF CHEESE ON THE TABLE READY TO ADD A LITTLE CHEESY FLAIR TO ANY DISH. THEREFORE, WITH GRATERS BEING USED IN MY HOUSE ALMOST EVERY DAY, I WAS EXCITED TO SEE THE NEW CONTAINER GRATER FROM MICROPLANE, WHICH ALLOWS YOU TO GRATE, COLLECT, SERVE AND STORE YOUR FAVOURITE INGREDIENTS ALL IN ONE UNIT.

The new Microplane Container Grater we got to test out came in a lovely cashmere beige colourway, giving a subtle and modern look to the grater that looks just as much of a kitchen accessory as it is a functional tool. I personally love graters, which catch everything in a box below, because I find them easier and more stable to use. Plus, they’re a lot tidier than having to scoop up all your delicious gratings afterwards. The Microplane Container Grater delivers on all these aspects, whilst looking great in your kitchen with a wooden lid.

The grating plate is made up of coarse, ultra-sharp stainless steel grating blades, which allow you to effortlessly grate your chosen ingredient into the container box below. The grater has a non-slip base that stops the grater box from moving whilst in use for added stability and safety when grating. This makes grating super easy and leaves less of a worry about the grater accidentally slipping, causing a small accident. The container has a generous 532ml capacity, ensuring you can grate large quantities without having to empty the container frequently. Once you’re ready to use your grated ingredient, you just turn the grater over, and the end has a small hole perfect for shaking your grated goods onto your desired dish or recipe. I like how secure the grating plate feels, and even when used to shake your grated ingredient out, it stays in place well. However, you can remove this with ease and serve your grated food directly from the container. Then, if you

have grated a little too much, or want to store leftover grated products, the Microplane Container Grater also comes with an airtight plastic lid, so you can put leftover cheese or vegetables back into the fridge ready for other meals.

One of my favourite things about the Microplane Container Grater is that it also comes with a wooden lid. This not only gives a lovely look to the grater, but it also doubles as a cheese board or resting spot to place things like cheeses during meals. This means that the grater becomes part of the theatre of the meal, providing an attractive and sophisticated place to store things before they are generously grated onto your favourite dish at the table. Plus, the wooden lid also doubles as a protective cover for the grater, ensuring the blades remain sharp and tucked away to avoid any injuries.

Overall, the Microplane Container Grater makes the perfect addition to your festive meal prep and table settings, allowing you to add everything from cheese and grated vegetables to dishes, to a lovely sprinkling of chocolate or lemon zest to finish off drinks and your favourite festive baked goods. If you’ve got a budding chef in your life that you’re looking for a present for or are looking to get into some festive baking this Christmas and Thanksgiving, the Microplane Container Grater is a brilliant all-around grater option that feels sturdy to use, looks great and makes grating and storage a breeze with the all-in-one unit.

PROS:

- Sturdy container grater that is easy to use

- Large container box for a large amount of grated goods

- Comes with an airtight lid and a wooden lid for great storage and table functionality

- Also available in grey with a walnut lid, so there’s a colour/style to suit all kitchens and tables

£28.00

https://uk.yeti.com/products/rambler-12-travel-bottle-white

YETI RAMBLER 12OZ TRAVEL BOTTLE

WITH THE WINTER MONTHS FAST UPON US, A HOT DRINK ON YOUR WAY TO WORK IS THE BEST WAY TO START THE DAY. I ALWAYS CARRY AN INSULATED FLASK WITH ME ON THE WAY TO WORK TO TRY AND WAKE ME UP ON THE COMMUTE, BUT BECAUSE SO MANY LEAK, I CAN NEVER PUT MY FLASK IN MY BAG, AND SO I HAVE TO JUGGLE IT WITH MY KEYS AND PHONE ON THE WAY OUT THE DOOR. HOWEVER, YETI HAVE DEVELOPED A 100% LEAKPROOF RAMBLER THAT CAN BE THROWN IN YOUR BAG OR IN YOUR CUP HOLDER, WITHOUT YOU WORRYING ABOUT ANY LEAKS.

The YETI Rambler Travel Bottle is made from kitchengrade stainless steel, which ensures it is both puncture and rustresistant. The bottle we got to test out came in a lovely white colourway, which looks sleek against the steel trim and black leakproof cap. My only worry with the white bottle is that it can show any marks quite easily, and I worry about it getting scratched in my bag.

The bottle features a double-walled vacuum-insulated design that ensures hot and cold drinks stay at their desired temperatures. Thanks to this insulated design, you can enjoy drinks at the perfect temperature down to the very last drop. Plus, the insulated design means that even if you use the bottle

for cold drinks, no condensation will be produced on the outside, unlike other single-walled drinking bottles, to keep your hands and bag dry too.

However, for me, the cap is the best part of the YETI Rambler Travel Bottle. The cap is YETI’s Leakproof Commuter Cap, which is designed to lock in every drop of your drink whilst offering a 360° drinkable design. This means that once you twist open the caps locking functions, you can drink your beverage from any angle and then lock the cap again and ensure no drops are wasted. I love just how innovative the design is to make drinking from the travel bottle super easy, whilst ensuring that once sealed, my drink isn’t going anywhere.

One of my favourite things about YETI’s Ramler Travel Bottle is that it is completely dishwasher safe, which is great because hand washing is one of my least favourite things! The entire Commuter Cup can be unscrewed into two pieces to go in the cutlery basket, with the bottle on the top rack. This makes cleaning so much easier and means you’ll always have your favourite travel bottle ready to go.

One of the best gifts you can get someone is something that will make their everyday a little easier, and the YETI Rambler 12oz Travel Bottle does just that. It provides a leakproof, easyto-clean and insulated bottle that will hold both your hot and cold drinks with ease, ensuring they maintain their temperature, so every drink is perfect down to the last drop.

PROS:

- Double-walled insulated design to keep drinks at their desired temperature

- 100% leak-proof Commuter Cap ensures no spills

- Dishwasher safe for easy cleaning

CONS:

- The white colourway may show scratches and marks a little more easily than other colours

MELITTA LOOK V PERFECTION FILTER COFFEE MACHINE

£94.99

https://www.melitta.co.uk/filter-coffee- machines/look-v-perfection

FOR 60 YEARS, MELITTA HAS BEEN DELIVERING TOP-OF-THE-RANGE FILTER COFFEE MACHINES THAT THRIVE ON TECHNICAL INNOVATION, GIVING EVERY USER THE PERFECT CUP OF COFFEE TO START THE DAY. TO CELEBRATE THIS, WE ARE EXCITED TO REVIEW THE MELITTA LOOK V PERFECTION FILTER COFFEE MACHINE, WHICH COMBINES THE MODERN, SLEEK APPEARANCE OF MELITTA’S LOOK RANGE WITH THE TOP-QUALITY TECH THAT HAS SUPPORTED THE COMPANY FOR MANY YEARS.

The Melitta Look V Perfection is a small and compact coffee unit that is designed to make perfect drip coffee with ease. The machine, designed to fit in with the rest of the Look Range, offers a sleek black and stainless-steel aesthetic which provides a cohesive look across your kitchen appliances.

One of the most exciting things about the Melitta Look V Perfection is that it features the AromaSelector feature, which allows you to set the intensity of your coffee without needing to change the coffee or water quantity. Traditionally, to change the strength of your coffee, you’d change things like the amount of coffee you use or the grind size to adjust flavour; however, the Look V Perfection features a top dial that allows you to set the strength of your coffee. With each pot brewed, you can adjust the intensity and see the change it has on the flavour, to make everything from a punchy, strong cup to wake you up in the morning, to a smoother and less intense brew for a chilled afternoon drink. I wouldn’t say adjusting the intensity had a super noticeable change for me as a general coffee drinker, but you can definitely notice a slightly stronger or weaker cup, so it would be perfect for those who are very particular about the brew strength and flavour of every cup.

To use the machine, you just pop your filter in the practical hinged filter holder, which swings out from the front of the unit. You then add your coffee to the filter and close the front panel, and fill the

removable water tank with the number of cups of water you will need for your brewing. Then, set your AromaSelector preference, turning anticlockwise for a stronger coffee, and place the jug on the warm plate under the machine. To start the brewing process, you just press the illuminated on/off button. The Look V Perfection filter coffee machine will then continue to run until all the water has left the water tank, delivering hot and delicious coffee into the jug ready to drink. Plus, even if you remove the jug before the entire brewing process has ended, it features an innovative stop-drip feature to ensure you don’t get drips on the base warming plate to help avoid messes.

In terms of cleaning, I was so glad to see that the filter insert, jug and water tank lid can be put in the dishwasher for super easy cleaning. The rest can be handwashed with some warm, soapy water or a damp cloth. The machine also features a 3-in-1 Cal Protection, which alerts you when the machine needs to be descaled. This helps you to maintain the health of your machine and ensure that every cup tastes as good as the last. I like that the Melitta Look V Perfection features an alert light, which will illuminate when the machine needs to be descaled. This is a super useful aspect of the machine as it ensures you can stay on top of descaling your machine for the best cup of coffee possible with each brewing.

Overall, the Melitta Look V Perfection filter coffee machine is an excellent addition to any kitchen counter, offering a convenient coffee-brewing setup that’s simple to use and effortless to clean. With the capacity to make up

to 10 cups, it’s ideal for the whole family, delivering a perfectly tailored brew at your preferred strength in just minutes. Whether you’re searching for a thoughtful gift for a coffee lover or a compact machine suited to small kitchens or dorm rooms, the Melitta Look V Perfection offers impressive value at a brilliant price point.

PROS:

• Easy to clean with many parts being dishwasher safe

• Timer to keep coffee hot once brewed

• Adjustable AromaSelector to get your preferred taste intensity

• Removable water jug for easy refilling

https://plantwithwillow.co.uk/ products/starter-pack

WILLOW STARTER PACK

I’M A CONFESSED AWFUL PLANT PARENT, BECAUSE FAR TOO MANY PLANTS HAVE COME INTO MY HOME TO SADLY BECOME CRISPY AND LOOK A LITTLE SORRY FOR THEMSELVES. THEREFORE, FINDING A SOLUTION THAT CAN MAKE LOOKING AFTER A PLANT EASIER IS EXACTLY WHAT WILLOW HAS DONE BY CREATING AN INNOVATIVE GADGET TO PROVIDE YOU WITH PLANT-SPECIFIC INSIGHTS INTO EVERY ASPECT OF YOUR PLANT’S HEALTH.

The Willow starter pack includes a sensor that you place into the soil of your plant and connect it with the Willow hub. Once connected, the sensor probes will measure the moisture level of the soil every 15 minutes, to provide feedback on what your plant needs after taking into account the plant’s needs, soil type and seasonality. This means that you never end up watering your plants too much or too little. The sensor can also produce a happiness score for your plant, which you can then work to improve with

watering. The sensor also has a light sensor, which tracks the light exposure of your plant, offering insights to help meet your growing goals and improve the overall happiness of your plant. The final check that the sensor carries out is humidity, which it gauges with the built-in temperature and humidity gauges. This helps to create the perfect environment for your specific species of plant to help it continue to thrive.

I like how simple the Willow Starter Pack is, as you just need to install the Willow app and pair it with your hub and sensor, ready to receive insightful reports back about your plant’s health.

I love that the app allows you the name your plant, and then set up reminders and notifications for watering, temperature and light insights. These reminders are almost like your plant is talking to you and demanding to be watered, which makes caring for them a lot more entertaining. Furthermore, the notifications ensure you can adjust to your plant’s needs in real time and learn how best to care for it.

The hub and sensor are a great way to get a better insight into your plants. I will note that some of the more detailed insights from Willow are only accessible with a subscription fee, which adds an ongoing cost to the price of the plant monitoring. However, if you have a lot of plants and are looking for an all-inone system that helps you to better meet their needs and keep them all thriving, Willow is a great option – especially if you’re bored of wasting money on plants that come into your house just to die!

PROS:

- Great insight into your plants needs to help them thrive

- Easy to set up and connect

- 24/7 monitoring for best plant health results

CONS:

- Some premium features of the Willow app are behind a subscription fee

- The Sensor is quite chunky, which may not fit into a smaller house plant pot alongside the plant

£169.00

https://www.bamixuk.com/collections/bamix-deluxe/products/deluxe-200w-black

HOUSEHOLD

BAMIX DELUXE HAND BLENDER

A RELIABLE HAND BLENDER IS ONE OF THE UNSUNG HEROES OF ANY KITCHEN, FULFILLING A WHOLE RANGE OF JOBS ALL IN ONE COMPACT UNIT THAT CAN EASILY BE STORED OUT OF SIGHT. FOR ME, MY HAND BLENDER IS USED IS A WHOLE ARRAY OF MEALS AND SNACKS, AND SO IT’S ONE I REACH FOR FREQUENTLY IN MY KITCHEN. THEREFORE, I WAS EXCITED TO SEE THE BAMIX DELUXE 200W HAND BLENDER THAT BOASTS TO HANDLE ALMOST ALL KITCHEN TASKS WITH JUST ONE UNIT!

The Bamix DeLuxe boasts to be able to crush, chop, mash, whip, grind, pulverise and grate most things easily, thanks to the heavy-duty 200W motor that powers the hand blender. This high power means that it can tackle anything from ice to soups with the same level of ease. The Bamix DeLuxe has two speeds, with the first speed offering a great starting speed to break down food into smaller chunks, and then the second speed helps to spin the motor even faster to achieve your desired blending, chopping or whisking results. Unlike most hand blenders, where you might detach the head to change between different blades or to connect to a mini food processor, the Bamix DeLuxe instead allows you to swap out the specific blades of the hand blender, allowing you to get more functions from the base unit. To change the blades of the Bamix Deluxe, you just push the blade into the centre of the hand blender end, and it will slide into place. Then, to remove, you just need to firmly pull the blade out - but just be careful to protect your hands to avoid hurting yourself on the blade, especially if it’s slippery!

I like the versatility of being able to swap the blades, as this allows for the one unit to operate across a whole range of kitchen functions from one hand-held unit. I like that I can get a whole range of textures with the Bamix DeLuxe, from a rough chop to a fine grate or even puree. This makes it perfect for making soups, sauces and even smoothies. The Bamix Deluxe even comes with an aeration blade designed to help you whisk things with the hand blender, adding yet another useful function to the hand blender. This versatility, from chopping and blending to whisking and aerating, highlights just how valuable the Bamix DeLux can be in kitchens, offering an appliance that can be used

in a wide variety of applications and meal preparation scenarios.

Then, when it comes to washing, the best way is to do this is by putting the blender in some hot, soapy water and power the blades to clean out any food. However, as you can only change the blades out and not the end of the hand blender, you might still need to do a little extra cleaning of the stem over the sink or with a wet cloth to ensure any splashes don’t get stuck to the hand blender stem above the blade cradle. I’d have liked it if the end of the Bamix DeLuxe could be removed for more thorough cleaning in the sink.

Furthermore, when not in use, the Bamix DeLuxe comes with a sleek stand to hold the hand blender, as well as the additional blades on the side. This means you can neatly store the hand blender on your kitchen counter, ready to be powered up to help you with your cooking needs. My only note is that the grinder/mini processor, which attaches to the Bamix DeLuxe, doesn’t have a clear spot to store it on the stand, so this would likely need to be stored elsewhere. However, considering the compact storage of the main hand blender and blades to keep them all safe and together, this isn’t much of an issue.

Overall, a great hand blender is a kitchen essential, and the Bamix DeLuke does this and even more, offering a whole range of functions from chopping and blending, all the way to pulverising and whisking to ensure you have everything you need in one unified kitchen appliance. Whilst it’s definitely an investment, the sheer amount of functions it offers seems to justify the price, as it can replace many other utensils and functions.

PROS:

- Multiple different functions all in one single unit

- Powerful motor that can power through things, including ice

- Two motor speeds for a range of functions

- Multiple blade options for everything from chopping to whisking

CONS:

- I’d have liked to be able to remove the part of the hand blender that comes into contact with food for easier cleaning

https://tcpi.eu/product/tcp-smart-wifi-glass-panel-heater-2000w-alexa-compatible-open-

window-detector-wall-mounted-freestanding-white-heater/

TCP SMART WIFI GLASS PANEL HEATER

DESIGNED TO BE LIGHTWEIGHT AND PORTABLE, THE TCP SMART WIFI GLASS PANEL HEATER IS A VERSATILE HEATING UNIT THAT WILL GET ANY ROOM WARM AND COSY, WHILST SAVING YOU MONEY IN THE PROCESS. I WAS EXCITED TO GET TO TEST OUT THE TCP SMART WIFI GLASS PANEL HEATER THAT CAN BE FULLY CONTROLLED FROM YOUR PHONE, SO YOU DON’T EVEN HAVE TO MOVE A MUSCLE TO TURN THE HEATING ON.

We all want our homes to be cosy and warm, but turning the heating on is something I think we all hold off on until as late as possible to try and save money and keep our overall energy bills low. Electric heaters are often a more efficient and affordable option to quickly heat a single room, rather than the whole house. Therefore, with electric heaters being increasingly popular in the winter months, I was glad to see TCP have developed the Smart WiFi Glass Panel Heater, which optimises heat output, whilst being programmed completely wirelessly

to give you even greater control over your home heating needs, all from the comfort of your sofa.

The Smart WiFi Glass Panel Heater looks super sleek in a white gloss effect unit, which can be both mounted on the wall using the included wall bracket or completely freestanding. This means that you can easily move the heater around to heat your desired room or fix it in place for more consistent temperature control. In the top corner of the Smart WiFi Glass Panel Heater is a small digital display that shows things such as the temperature and time at a glance, as well as having a plethora of touch controls below it to set and adjust the heater to your specific needs. However, one of the main benefits of the TCP Smart WiFi Glass Panel Heater is that it can be connected to your phone via the TCP Smart App, where you can turn on the heater, set schedules and times, and change the power setting (low at 15000W and high at 2000W) to get the perfect heating settings for your home.

I was glad to see that the heater can be programmed so it will turn on and heat your home on a set schedule. This is perfect for busy people who want to come home to a warm house and not face those frosty minutes waiting by the radiator until the household heating kicks in. Instead, with the fully electronic thermostat control, you can ensure your home is always the perfect temperature, without having to put the central heating on. Additionally, you can save money by only heating the rooms you really need instead of the whole house, and efficiently reduce the

heater use to set times so there are no big surprises on your energy bills. Overall, the Smart WiFi Glass Panel Heater from TCP is a super functional and sleek-looking heater that would make a great addition to any home looking to keep a comfortable temperature whilst remaining conscious of saving money on energy bills in the long term. Priced at around £120, the heater provides a versatile range of heating times and schedules, all controlled wirelessly from the TCP Smart App, or via Alex or Google Home, to keep your house warm without even having to move from your sofa.

PROS:

- Versatile heater that can be freestanding or wallmounted

- Can be controlled completely wirelessly for more efficient monitoring and temperature control

- Cost-effective option over putting central heating on the warm a single room rather than the whole house

TCP SMART WIFI DEHUMIDIFIER

https://tcpi.eu/product/tcp-smart-dehumidifier-12l/

AS THE MONTHS TURN COLDER AND WE HAVE WINDOWS AND DOORS OPEN LESS AND LESS, IT’S EASY FOR OUR HOMES TO GET A LITTLE STUFFY AND FOR HUMIDITY LEVELS TO RISE. THIS CAN LEAD TO CONDENSATION ON WINDOWS, DOORS AND WALLS, WHICH IS A BREEDING GROUND FOR MOULD, RESULTING IN A NOT-SO-NICE SPACE TO BE LIVING IN. THEREFORE, A DEHUMIDIFIER, SUCH AS THE SMART WIFI DEHUMIDIFIER FROM TCP, OFFERS AN EASY SOLUTION TO DRAW EXCESS MOISTURE FROM THE AIR TO KEEP WINDOWS CONDENSATION-FREE AND YOUR AIR QUALITY BETTER FOR AN OVERALL HEALTHIER LIVING SPACE.

The TCP Smart WiFi Dehumidifier is a great compact unit that has a powerful fan to draw moisture from the air and store this in the unit’s 2-litre water tank. The dehumidifier draws moisture from the air until it reaches your desired humidity level, or until the water tank is full. Once full, the machine alerts you to this, so you can pull the water tank out, pour away the water, and get back to dehumidifying your room. I find this particularly helpful when I’ve just washed some clothes, as the TCP Smart WiFi Dehumidifier can sit under the clothes drying rack to absorb excess water, helping my clothes to dry quicker and to stop the excess moisture from causing mould to grow in my house.

One of the big benefits of the TCP Smart WiFi Dehumidifier is that it comes with a built-in HEPA filter, which makes it perfect for those who suffer from allergies. The HEPA filter helps to filter out allergens and airborne particles from the air, which makes the dehumidifier ideal all year round to help cut down on pet, dust

and pollen particles. Thus, as an allyear-round unit, the TCP Smart WiFi Dehumidifier is designed to offer topquality air circulation to actively reduce damp and mould, whilst also filtering the air in your home to make every breath a little fresher.

The easy connectivity of the TCP Smart WiFi Dehumidifier is one of my favourite things about the unit, as you can connect the dehumidifier to your phone via the TCP Smart app to allow you to control the dehumidifier even when you’re not at home. Whilst at home, you can either use the app to turn on and program the dehumidifier, or you can connect it with Alexa or Google Home to be able to tell the dehumidifier to turn on without even having to press a button. However, I love that I can connect to the dehumidifier even whilst I’m away via the app to ensure that the humidity levels in my home are always being managed – just be sure to check the water filter is empty before you leave, as once it’s full it automatically turns off to avoid overflowing!

A dehumidifier might not be the first choice when it comes to a Christmas present, but in a world where everything is very expensive, sometimes the holidays are the best time to get larger appliances that make life a little easier. This would be such a great gift for someone who’s just moved into a new flat or university dorm to help reduce humidity and condensation, or for those who want to help improve the air in their house. It’s a useful appliance, and one that makes life a little easier – a great gift if you ask me!

PROS:

- Remote controlled via the TCP Smart App for enhanced controllability, no matter where you are

- Built-in HEPA filter for allergen filtration

- Intuitive touch display for easy humidity monitoring

CONS:

- Once the 2-litre tank is full, the dehumidifier will auto shut off, and so does needs to be regularly emptied to get the most effective dehumidification out of it

https://tcpi.eu/product/tcp-smart-wifi-wall-mounted-horizontal- downflow-heater-white-2kw/

TCP SMART WIFI WALL HEATER

THE WINTER MONTHS ARE QUICKLY GOING TO BE UPON US, AND AS THE TEMPERATURES OUTSIDE START TO PLUMMET, MANY OF US ARE TURNING OUR HOME HEATING SYSTEMS ON TO TRY AND AVOID SEEING OUR BREATH WHEN JUST WATCHING TV. HOWEVER, WITH ENERGY PRICES GOING UP AND UP, FINDING ENERGY-EFFICIENT SOLUTIONS THAT CAN KEEP YOUR HOME WARM, WITHOUT YOUR BILLS GOING THROUGH THE ROOF CAN BE A STRUGGLE. THUS, ELECTRIC HEATING SYSTEMS ARE OFTEN A GO-TO SOLUTION, AS THEY PROVIDE A COSTEFFECTIVE WAY TO HEAT A SINGLE ROOM WITHOUT NEEDING TO PUT THE CENTRAL HEATING ON IN THE ENTIRE HOUSE. THIS COMPLICATED SITUATION IS ONE THAT TCP ARE TRYING TO REMEDY WITH THEIR RANGE OF SMART HEATING SOLUTIONS THAT CAN WARM UP YOUR ROOM AND GIVE YOU MORE CONTROL OVER YOUR TEMPERATURE, WITHOUT SEEING A HUGE BILL AT THE END OF THE MONTH.

We got to test out the TCP Smart WiFi Wall Heater, which is a wall-mounted horizontal downflow heater that is designed to quickly heat your room with just the touch of a button. The heater comes with the wall fittings needed to hang it on the wall, and you just need to find the perfect location and drill into the wall according to the included installation instructions, and then hang the heater on the screws. Once installed, you can turn the heater on using the front control buttons, then select your desired mode setting (timed, scheduled etc) or temperature, and the heater will get to work warming your room. The current room temperature will be displayed on the heater’s digital screen for continual room temperature monitoring.

However, if you’ve installed the heater quite high up, it comes with a handy remote, or you can connect the heater to your phone via the TCP Smart App, where you can control the heater completely from your device. On your device, you can also adjust

the settings and modes to make heating your room even easier without needing to get up and turn on the heater itself. Plus, you can even connect the Smart WiFi Wall Heater with Alexa or Google Home to activate the heater with voice controls alone – making turning the heater on and warming your space super easy.

The heater is powered by a 2000W ceramic heater, which provides powerful heat despite its compact size. Thus, the heater can warm up a small room quite quickly, which makes it a cost-effective way to heat just a single room, rather than turn the heating on in the whole house. This quick heating design aims to help cut down on your overall energy usage, and in the process help save you some money – something we could all do with at the moment!

I like that you can set specified schedules and timers in the TCP Smart App to ensure you don’t have the heater running when it is no longer needed, but can also ensure that your rooms are heated to a comfortable level on a regular schedule for all yearround comfort, no matter the weather outside.

Overall, if you’ve been on the hunt for a new electric heater option, but don’t like the look of floor-standing ones or don’t have the space for one, the Smart WiFi Wall Heater provides a useful wall-mounted option that will heat your room and keep it toasty, whilst saving you money from putting the central heating on in the process.

PROS:

- Quickly heats up your room

- WiFi controlled for easy powering on and temperature control

- Wall-mounted design to save space

CONS:

- Requires drilling into the wall to hang the heater, so it wouldn’t be a great option for renters who can’t damage walls without permission from landlords

£39.00

https://www.frenchsoaps.co.uk/ products/boxed-candle-trio-agar- wood-oud-amber-balsam-fir

ONE OF THE BEST AND EASIEST GIFTS TO GIVE AT CHRISTMAS IS A CANDLE. CANDLES ADD A LOVELY BIT A COSINESS TO ANY ROOM, AND WHEN ACCOMPANIED BY SOME DELICIOUS SCENTS, EACH ONE PROVIDES A LOVELY, SCENTED EXPERIENCE. HOWEVER, ONE OF THE HARDEST CHOICES CAN BE WHAT SCENT TO GET SOMEONE, AS SCENTS CAN BE SUCH A PERSONAL THING. THEREFORE, MY PREFERRED OPTION IS TO GO FOR A SMALL COLLECTION, LIKE THE GEODESIS BOXED CANDLE TRIOS, THAT PROVIDE THREE SMALLER CANDLE OPTIONS IN A VARIETY OF SCENTS, ENSURING THERE IS AT LEAST ONE THEY’LL LIKE!

The candles come in a lovely decorative box, with each one featuring a matching luxury-looking label showing each scent. The overall look gives a luxury finish, providing your loved one with a beautiful set of candles that look just as good when they’re being burnt as when they aren’t. Priced at just under £40, the candles are more premium; however, each one delivers around 25 hours of burning time. Whilst burning, each scent is strong yet not overpowering, filling your room with the lovely fragrance that makes each one a luxury experience.

If you’re on the hunt for a lovely gift that gives a touch of scented luxury, the GEODESIS Boxed Candle Trio in Agar Wood, Amber and Balsam Fir are the perfect option. With a long burn time, beautiful packaging, and lovely scent variety, the trio are an excellent gift choice – especially for someone who never wants anything!

PROS:

- Three different luxury scents for a great variety - Beautiful packaging for luxury gift giving - Long burn time

CONS:

- Scents may not suit everyone’s preferences, but there are plenty of other trio sets to choose from!

£50.00 CLICK HERE TO ORDER

STANLEY AEROLIGHT ICEFLOW FLIP STRAW 2.0 BOTTLE

I’VE BEEN A FAN OF STANLEY PRODUCTS FOR A LONG TIME, AND FROM MY VERY FIRST QUENCHER TUMBLER, I’VE BEEN HOOKED ON THE BRAND. EACH PIECE OF DRINKWARE FROM STANLEY IS DESIGNED TO INSULATE YOUR DRINK, BE SUPER EASY TO CLEAN AND ENSURE THAT YOU ALWAYS HAVE A DRINK ON HAND. THEREFORE, I WAS SUPER EXCITED TO TEST OUT THE ICEFLOW SLIP STRAW 2.0 BOTTLE THAT BRINGS TOGETHER ALL THE GREAT THINGS ABOUT THE ICE FLOW, BUT NOW WITH A FLIP STRAW FOR EVEN EASIER DRINKING ON THE GO.

The IceFlow Flip Straw 2.0 Bottle we got to test out came in a lovely hot coral colour, which is a nice mix of orange and red with a matte effect exterior. The tall bottle is nice and slimline, making it cup holder friendly, whilst still having a large capacity inside. We tested the 1.1 litre size, which offers plenty of drink capacity, and thanks to the AeroLight design, the bottle still remains pretty lightweight even whilst completely full. To ensure your drink stays at the perfect temperature, the bottle features double-wall vacuum insulation, which can keep drinks cold for up to 12 hours, and even longer if iced.

I’m a big fan of the Flip Straw 2.0 design, which allows you to easily sip on your drink. Most insulated bottles have a round opening from which you drink; however, I like that you don’t need to remove the lid, you just flip up the straw, and you can sip away. Then, when you flip the straw back down, it seals the lid, offering a leak-proof bottle perfect for throwing in your gym or work bag to stay hydrated on the go. One of the other nifty

aspects of the IceFlow Flip Straw 2.0 Bottle is that it comes with a carrying handle from the top. The top metal carrying handle can be folded down for drinking or pulled up above the straw for carrying. This handle means that the bottle is super easy to carry with you on outdoor adventures and walks.

For cleaning, Stanley products are the best, as the bottle and lid can be put in the dishwasher for easy cleaning. I was glad to see that you can even take off the spout and internal straw for a more thorough clean. I personally like to throw the main bottle in the dishwasher, and then hand-wash the lid, straw and spout with a straw cleaner in the sink for a deep clean between uses. Therefore, in terms of cleaning, the IceFLow Flip Straw 2.0 Bottle is super good, and makes the dreaded task of washing up a little bit less daunting.

Like with all Stanley products, they are more of an investment, priced a little higher than some other insulated bottles on the market. However, this price seems to be reflected in the durability, ease of washing and longlasting insulation that they provide. Therefore, I would recommend any Stanley products as a great Christmas present option, and especially the Flip Straw 2.0 Bottle for its convenient drinking straw, superb insulation and leak-free design.

PROS:

- Double-walled vacuum insulated to keep drinks cold for up to 12 hours

- Easy to clean – dishwasher safe parts

- Useful carry handle for onthe-go adventures

- Nice drinking spout that doesn’t leak

CONS:

- The straw design does take a little more cleaning than other models to ensure that the inside of the straw is clean between uses

https://www.oofos.co.uk/products/mens-ooahh-sport-slide-sandal-matt-black

OOFOS MENS OOAH SPORT SLIDE SANDAL

COMFORT AND STYLE HAVE NEVER GONE MORE HAND IN HAND UNTIL I GOT TO TEST OUT THE OOFOS OOAH SPORT SLIDE SANDALS. BUILT WITH OOFOS’ SIGNATURE OOFOAM™, THE SLIDES ARE DESIGNED TO MAKE EVERY STEP FEEL LIKE YOU’RE WALKING ON A CLOUD.

The OOAH Sport Slides we got to test out came in a lovely all black colourway, with the ‘OO’ from the OOFOs logo across the side of each slide. I liked the overall minimalist look of the slide, with a nice little branded touch. However, the true beauty of the slides comes from the wearing, as each one is made from a super soft, yet sturdy foam that delivers the perfect amount of cushioned comfort. The slides are made from OOFOS’ OOfoam™, which is designed to absorb 37% more impact than traditional footwear. This means that with every step, you feel supported and comfortable – something you rarely find with traditional slides.

One of the great benefits of the slides is that they also feature OOFOS’ patented footbed design, which provides support for your foot, helping to reduce the stress put on your joints. This means that your knees and ankles will thank you whilst wearing the slides, as the support with each step leaves you feeling secure and sturdy. Slides can often be super flat and rarely have the cushioning needed to make them comfortable for wearing for more than a quick errand. However, the OOFOS OOAH Sport Slides are designed to be super comfortable, supportive and enjoyable to wear – even for long periods of time.

If you like the relaxed and easy slip-on design that slides provide, but are looking for a pair that can provide additional support and comfort, then the OOFOS OOAH Sport Slides are an

excellent option. Whilst they are on the pricier side for slides, they seem to make up for this with the unmatched comfort and support they provide. Plus, being slightly thicker than traditional slides, I expect them to hold up pretty well, making them a worthwhile investment – especially if you love wearing slides!

If you or a loved one is obsessed with wearing slides, whether for everyday tasks or even for recovery after training, the OOFOS OOAH Sport Slides make the perfect upgrade from many on the market, to provide a pair that not only looks great but feels great to wear.

PROS:

- Super soft foam material that feels breathable but supportive

- Patented footbed design to help improve shock absorption and support joints

- The slides are completely machine washable due to the closedcell foam design

CONS:

- Higher price point for slides – but worth the investment if you want the added support

£350.00

https://uk.yeti.com/products/panga-75-waterproof-duffel-tan

OUTDOOR

YETI PANGA 75L WATERPROOF DUFFEL

RUGGED, WATERPROOF AND STYLISH ARE THE THREE WORDS I’D USE TO DESCRIBE THE YETI PANGA 75L WATERPROOF DUFFEL BAG. THE DUFFEL BAG IS DESIGNED TO GO WITH YOU ON ANY ADVENTURE, COME RAIN OR SHINE, TO KEEP YOUR THINGS PROTECTED, SAFE AND ORGANISED. THEREFORE, THE YETI PANGA 75L DUFFEL IS THE PERFECT BAG FOR AN OVERNIGHT TRIP - OR EVEN A LONGER WEEKEND TRIP, DEPENDING ON HOW LIGHT YOU CAN PACK!

The duffel we got to test out came in a 75-litre capacity, which provides plenty of space for all your things in the waterproof and durable bag. One of the things I was most surprised by when opening the bag is just how thick and durable it feels. This durable feel is because the duffel is made with YETI’s ThickSkin™ material, which is a rugged, high-density nylon and TPU laminated material that is both puncture-proof and completely waterproof. This is then paired with the EVA moulded base, and DryHaul™ Straps that make the bag easy to use and virtually impenetrable. However, the waterproofing goes one step further, and even the zip is designed to keep the water out. The zip is a Hydrolock™ Zipper, which is designed to keep water out should your bag get stuck in a rainstorm or even become submerged in water to ensure that all your valuables inside are protected from the elements. The zip is usually the first place where water can seep into a bag, and so the detail to ensure that everything down to the zip is completely waterproof highlights the innovative and durable construction of the bag by YETI.

The YETI Panga 75L Waterproof Duffel straps feature MetalLock™ hardware for added durability and can be used to carry that bag in your hand, or like a rucksack. This is perfect for carrying on your back whilst getting to your camping ground or for throwing over your arm as you embark on your adventures. However, the detailed design does just end there, as inside the bag there is a wide space for all your clothes and personal belongings, and even two mesh pockets to hold your valuables. The pockets provide plenty of

space for things like your phone, keys and wallet to keep them safe and protected. I love the bright orange interior, in contrast with the lovely tan colour of the bag we tested out. The blend of these colours, with the brown straps and zip detailing gives a stylish overall look to the bag. Overall, if you love getting away on outdoor adventures and are looking for a bag to live up to your fast paced and rugged lifestyle, the YETI Panga 75L Waterproof Duffel is the perfect bag for you. The bag is designed to deliver next level protection for your personal belonging, whilst being able to handle even the harshest of environments. Therefore, I think this would make the perfect luxury gift this Christmas, especially for someone who likes camping, hiking or fishing, to provide them with a durable, functional yet stylish bag to keep all their belongings in. Whilst the bag is on the higher end price wise for a duffel bag, its rugged durability and complete waterproof nature ensure its one that is worth the investment and will last for many many more years and adventures to come.

PROS:

- Extremely durable bag made for harsh environments and weather conditions

- Completely waterproof including the zipper to ensure your personal belonging are kept safe

- Reinforced bag straps for easy carrying

- Stylish look whilst being hard wearing

CONS:

- High price point for a duffel bag - but for the durability, design and functionality its worth the investment if you are an avid outdoor explorer

£40.99

https://eu.felco.com/products/felco-703w

OUTDOOR

FELCO 703W WINTER GLOVES

FOR MANY OF US, WINTER IS THE PERFECT TIME TO CUT BACK OUR PLANTS AND PRUNE OUR GARDENS, READY FOR THE FOLLOWING YEAR. THUS, LIKE MANY OTHER GARDENERS AND HORTICULTURISTS, I’VE BEEN VENTURING INTO THE GARDEN NO MATTER THE TEMPERATURE OR WEATHER TO TRY AND KEEP MY YEAR-ROUND PLANTS THRIVING AND PREPARE MY GARDEN FOR THE UPCOMING YEAR. THEREFORE, A GOOD PAIR OF GARDEN GLOVES THAT CAN KEEP MY HANDS WARM, WHILST ALSO PROTECTING THEM FROM ANY SPIKY PLANTS, IS AN ESSENTIAL. THIS IS WHERE THE FELCO 703W WINTER GLOVES COME IN, OFFERING A HEAVY-DUTY PAIR OF GLOVES THAT ARE PERFECT FOR WORKING IN THE GARDEN WHILST KEEPING YOUR HANDS WARM AND TOASTY.

The gloves come in a lovely natural tan colour and are made from a hard-wearing leather. On the inside, the gloves feature a lovely, soft, white material designed to keep your hands warm. The leather exterior ensures that the gloves are waterproof, and the interior helps to cushion your hands and keep them warm when the temperatures outside are a little chilly. The gloves are lovely to wear and are a much better option than wool gloves as they can withstand super rainy conditions, whilst providing an extra durable punctureproof layer thanks to the 3M Thinsulate material.

My only slight complaint is that, unlike some other pairs, the wrist is not elasticated and so they don’t fit snugly around the wrist. This means that not only can a breeze get into the gloves, but if you don’t have the perfect size, they can fall off a little while you’re using them. I’d have liked to see an elasticated cuff to keep heat in better, and to help keep them better in place. However, I was glad to see that the gloves are designed to eventually mould to the shape of your hands, which I think could help them stay in place better over time. Overall, the FELCO 703W Winter Gloves provide a durable winter glove option designed to support you in your gardening adventures and protect against the weather and cold, as well as from any particularly prickly plants! At just over £40, the gloves are on the higher end of the market for gardening gloves, but if you have a garden-obsessed parent or particularly green-thumbed friend, they would make a great luxury gift option this Christmas.

PROS:

- Hard-wearing leather gloves that are punctureresistant and waterproof

- Lovely soft interior lining for added warmth

- Will adapt to the shape of your hands over time for added comfort

CONS:

- The cuff is not elasticated, which allows heat to escape, so I’d have liked to have seen an elasticated cuff for a more secure feeling and better heat trapping

OUTDOOR

JETBOIL FLASH 1.0L

£149.99

https://www.jetboil.co.uk/products/flash%E2%84%A2-1-0-mountainscape

IF YOU LOVE HIKING AND CAMPING, YOU’VE PROBABLY WRESTLED WITH A CAMPFIRE TO TRY AND KEEP IT ALIGHT SO YOU CAN COOK A NICE BREAKFAST AND MAKE A CUP OF COFFEE IN THE MORNING. FOR THIS REASON, CAMPING STOVES HAVE BECOME INCREASINGLY POPULAR AMONG OUTDOOR EXPLORERS TO HEAT WATER AND REHYDRATE FOOD. THUS, JETBOIL HAVE DEVELOPED THE FLASH 1.0L CAMPING STOVE WHICH DELIVERS LIGHTNING-FAST BOILING TO MAKE COOKING FAST, CONVENIENT AND EASY TO DO.

The Jetboil Flash 1.0L camping stove we got to test out came in the lovely Mountainscape colourway, which includes a lovely mountain image in orange, brown and light blue across the insulated cosy that sits around the cooking pot. The cosy features an innovative thermochromatic colour-changing heat indicator, which alerts you when the pot is hot, both for safety and for easy cooking. The pot has a 1 litre capacity, providing ample space to make multiple cups of coffee or to rehydrate food for at least 2 people at once.

I like the compact design of the Jetboil Flash as all the components fit neatly inside the pot, with a clip-on measuring cup on the base. This cup can be used as a bowl for added convenience, and everything, including the igniter, can be fit inside. This makes the Jetboil Flash super convenient for hiking because your whole camping stove system can be packed into one complete unit that is compact yet still relatively lightweight.

In terms of heating, the Jetboil Flash is super easy to use. You just connect the fuel cannister with the base and twist to lock into place, and then fill the pot with food or water. To ignite the burner, it’s super easy with a twist button, which you turn to the ignite setting and wait for the click. Once ignited, place the pot on the top, which will also rotate into place, then cover with the lid and your food will cook away as the cosy begins to change colour with the heat. You can use the front twist button to lower the flame and adjust your cooking; however, the Jetboil Flash boasts to have water boiling in just 120 seconds, which is perfect for quick pit stops for a coffee mid-adventure or to make cooking even quicker. Once your food is done, or your water has boiled, you just turn off the flame and remove the pot.

Plus, if you’re an avid camper, you’ll be glad to hear that the Jetboil Flash is also compatible with a whole range of Jetboil accessories designed to make your life easier. This includes a coffee press, hanging kit, pot support, FluxRing cooking pot and utensils, to make your Jetboil Flash even more functional.

Across the entire design of the Jetboil Flash, functionality has been made the priority, from the speed with which it can heat food to how compact it is for transportation. If you often find yourself camping or hiking, and want a super speedy and portable camping stove that is designed to make meal times and coffee breaks that little bit easier, the Jetboil Flash is a superb option.

PROS:

- Compact design that all fits into the pot for easy transportation

- Quick boil times for easy cooking

- Large 1 litre capacity ideal for at least 2 people

- Functional design that is super easy to use

£69.99

https://www.niteize.co.uk/products/radiant-

starlit%E2%84%A2-rechargeable-lantern-string-light

STARLIT RECHARGEABLE LANTERNS AND STRING LIGHT

THE FESTIVE PERIOD CALLS FOR SOME FUN AND ATMOSPHERIC LIGHTING, AND THE RADIANT® STARLIT™ RECHARGEABLE LANTERN AND STRING LIGHT FROM NITE IZE IS THE PERFECT SET TO ILLUMINATE YOUR GARDEN OR HOUSE WITH EITHER A CALMING OR FUN AND FUNKY GLOW TO MATCH THE MOOD.

When I first opened the Lantern and String Light, I was a little confused, thinking the box just contained the lantern and that no string lights had arrived. However, I quickly noticed a small hook on the side of the lantern that, when pulled on, unwinds the string lights from inside the lantern. I was super impressed with the design as it means your lights don’t get all tangled up when stored away, and instead they sit neatly inside the lantern where they can be lit up from within, or unravelled, offering a lovely string light look.

The lantern is where you can operate the lights from, simply by pressing the large power button on the back. Once pressed, you can then click through the different colour settings that control the lights. Across the 70 LEDs, there is the option for a warm yellow/ amber colour, red, green or blue lights, and then a range of Disc-O Select options, including colour changing ones such as Classic Disco-O, Disc-O Pulse, Disc-O Twinkle and Disco-Chase. I personally think the Disc-O options look super fun and would light up any room; however, for a more subtle, calming glow, the amber colour is lovely. The lantern itself offers a lovely warm glow, too, and you can even illuminate the lantern both alone and with the string lights together to get the perfect ambience level.

you just plug in the lantern base with the included USB-C charging cable to recharge the entire light set in just a couple of hours. Furthermore, when you’re done using the lights, the back of the lantern flips out, revealing a small crank arm, which you can turn over and use to spin the lights back into the case. This is super easy to do and makes storing the string lights super easy for future use without worrying about them getting tangled or damaged.

If you’re looking for a fun set of lights to illuminate your garden, home or even campsite, the Nite Ize Radiant® Starlit™ Rechargeable Lantern and String Light are a great option. They’re well stored, have a lot of different colours and light pattern options, and are completely rechargeable, making them perfect for using both indoors and outdoors without needing to be plugged into the mains.

PROS:

- Innovative storage design in the lantern

- Good range of colour options and light patterns to choose from

- Rechargeable to save on batteries or the need for mains power input

CONS:

- Higher price point for string lights and a lantern, which may not be as affordable despite their great colour options and functionality

SOL ESCAPE BIVVY

$68.99

https://www.surviveoutdoorslonger.com/products/escape-bivvy

SOL (SURVIVE OUTDOORS LONGER) ARE PASSIONATE ABOUT PROVIDING ESSENTIAL ITEMS FOR OUTDOOR SURVIVAL, TO ENSURE THAT YOU HAVE ALL THE TOOLS YOU NEED TO START FIRES, SHELTER AND SIGNAL FOR HELP IN AN EMERGENCY. ONE OF THE KEY PRODUCTS DELIVERED BY SOL IS THEIR BIVVYS, WHICH OFFER A LIGHTWEIGHT AND PROTECTIVE SHELTER THAT KEEPS YOU DRY FOR SOLO ADVENTURES, OR CAN BE A LIFE-SAVING TOOL TO HAVE IN THE EVENT OF AN EMERGENCY.

We got to test out the Escape Bivvy, which offers a lightweight, compact and durable sleeping-bag style of cover that is designed to keep you warm and dry no matter the weather conditions. The Escape Bivvy comes packed in a small stuff sack that keeps the bivvy compact, ideal for putting in your hiking bag between uses. Despite its size, which is impressive, offering plenty of space for you even with multiple layers on (we tested the XL size), the Escape Bivvy remains remarkably lightweight, making it perfect for when you’re trying to get the weight of your hiking bag down, whilst still having a shelter option packed away.

The Escape Bivvy is made from SOL’s proprietary Escape ThermaShell material, which is a specialised spunbonded olefin fabric with a metalised coating. This not only makes the bivvy super durable, as it can resist both tears and punctures, but it also ensures that it keeps you warm and dry. Then, the inside reflective lining ensures that 70% of your body heat is reflected back onto you to keep you warm even in cold conditions, whilst the whole thing is still super breathable. In fact, one of the nifty parts of the design is that even the seams and zips have been made to be completely waterproof to ensure there are no weak spots where water could get into the bivvy. Therefore, the bag can withstand even the harshest of conditions, allowing you to rest whenever and wherever you like with the compact Escape Bivvy.

From its wide zip opening, hardwearing material and metallic interior, the Escape Bivvy from SOL is the perfect option for hikers looking for a lightweight shelter option, minimalist campers looking to have a ‘sleep under the stars’ experience, or as an emergency shelter should the weather take a turn for the worse. If you have an avid camper or hiker in your life who is always adventuring on long trails, or is looking for an emergency option to have in their bag for various outdoor trips, the Escape Bivvy from Sol is the perfect option to keep them warm and dry no matter the weather, season or location.

PROS:

- Hardwearing and durable materials that are tear and puncture-resistant

- Reflective interior material to help reflect body heat back to you to keep you warm

- Lightweight and compact packing design, making it ideal for putting in hiking bags

£69.99

https://miofive.com/products/mini-s-uk

MIOFIVE DASH CAM MINI S

WITH THE NIGHTS BEGINNING TO DRAW IN, HAVING A DASH CAMERA BECOMES EVEN MORE VITAL WHEN VISIBILITY IS LIMITED. UNFORTUNATELY, ACCIDENTS DO HAPPEN, BUT WHEN IT COMES TO INSURANCE CLAIMS, HAVING YOUR OWN RECORD OF EVENTS IS CRUCIAL IN PROVING LIABILITY. FOR THIS REASON, I NEVER DRIVE WITHOUT A DASH CAMERA IN MY CAR, AS IT OFFERS AN EXTRA LEVEL OF PEACE OF MIND, WHETHER ON LONG OR SHORT JOURNEYS. I WAS THEREFORE PLEASED TO SEE THAT MIOFIVE OFFERS THE MINI S DASH CAMERA, WHICH IS HIGHLY USER-FRIENDLY AND ALLOWS YOU TO PLUG THE DASH CAMERA STRAIGHT INTO YOUR CAR AND GET RECORDING FOR THAT EXTRA LAYER OF SECURITY WHILE YOU’RE ON THE ROAD.

The Mini S Dash Camera is a super small bar-shaped dash camera that attaches to the front windscreen of your car using the provided adhesive patch on the top of the camera. Once attached to your car, the camera can then be pivoted to provide the best angle of the road. One of the best things about the Mini S Dash Camera is just how easy it is to get the camera set up. You just have to plug it into your car’s power source using the included car charger and car charging cable, and then follow the instructions in the manual. This shows you how to connect the dash camera to your phone via the Miofive App, where you can then activate and start using it for your drives.

Once connected, the Mini S Dash Camera delivers a 4K 2160p camera that is designed to capture clear recordings of the road, no matter the time of day. The camera can be focused on a specific range of interest, and then the camera corrects the windshield colour to help ensure all footage has the best image

quality possible. Then, for nighttime driving, the Mini S features ‘super night vision’ thanks to its 3D DNR technology and intelligent AI algorithm that reduces image noise and ensures you can capture every detail around you, even in dark driving conditions. As you drive, the camera also has a nifty audio alert setting that can help you with your speed awareness and warn you of speed cameras along your route. The audio cues mean you can keep your eyes on the road, making your driving safer, whilst ensuring you are sticking to the speed limit for a safer drive.

I do need to note that the dash camera does not come with an SD card, so you would need to use one you already have or purchase a new one. I’d personally have liked to see one included in the box for added ease and convenience, but I appreciate this would likely have bumped up the price of the dash camera. The dash camera supports SD cards between 32 GB and 512GB, with the smaller size holding only a few hours of footage, and a 512GB SD card holding up to 36 hours of footage. However, a big positive is that the dash camera is designed to automatically loop its recordings

to ensure that you never run out of memory space. This means you could use a smaller SD card if you’re only driving a few hours a day, because new footage is automatically recorded over older footage to keep space on your dash camera for new footage from each drive.

In the event of an accident, the Mini S Dash Camera has a built-in G-sensor. This is designed to respond to sudden movements or knocks, as might be experienced during a crash, and so the dash camera locks the footage for review later. This ensures that accidents are securely stored and are prevented from being overwritten, so you can use them if an insurance claim or police report needs to be made. Recorded footage can then be reviewed instantly on your phone via the Miofive app, thanks to the built-in Wi-Fi of the dash camera. Plus, the Mini S Dash Cam records your vehicle’s location and speed data thanks to its built-in GPS tracking, adding yet another level of protection when it comes to claims to prove your speed and location in the event of an accident.

The Mini S Dash Camera does have a parking mode; however, this does require the purchase of the Hardwire Kit HWK2, as the camera needs to be directly plugged into your car to allow the camera to turn on even when your car is off. Once hardwired, the dash camera is designed to have two parking modes for collision detection or time-lapse to help protect your car when it is parked.

Overall, if you’re new to the world of dash cameras or just want a super easy dash camera that you can connect and get working without a lot of fuss, the Miofive Dash Cam Mini S is a great option. It’s super easy to use and provides a nice bit of peace of mind knowing that should an accident or crash occur, you have a copy of the events for insurance and legal proceedings. Whilst ideally, we will never need to use the footage we record, in a world where insurance claims are hard to determine, having a copy of events could save you lots in the long run and help keep you accountable on the road.

Also available from Amazon at just £49.99 now!

PROS:

- Easy to set up and use the dash camera

- Great quality camera footage to clearly see what’s happening on the road – even at night

- G-sensor to respond to sudden movement to ensure bumps or crashes are captured

CONS:

- Doesn’t come with an SD card – I would have liked to see at least a 32GB SD card included in the set so you can record at least a few hours of footage, and then decide if you’d prefer a larger memory card

£262.46

https://miofive.com/products/mirror-1-uk

MIOFIVE MIRROR1 DASH CAMERA

I TRIED A FEW DIFFERENT DASH CAMERAS OVER THE YEARS, BUT THE MIOFIVE MIRROR1 DASH CAMERA MIGHT JUST BE THE MOST TECHNOLOGICALLY ADVANCED ONE I’VE EVER SEEN. THE UNIT OPERATES NOT ONLY AS A USEFUL FRONT-VIEW DASH CAMERA TO CAPTURE THE ROAD IN FRONT OF YOU, BUT IT ALSO CAPTURES THE ROAD BEHIND YOU AND THEN DISPLAYS IT FOR YOU ON THE REARVIEW MIRROR-STYLE SCREEN. THIS TURNS YOUR USUAL REAR-VIEW MIRROR INTO A HIGH-TECH SCREEN PROVIDING AN EVEN GREATER VIEW OF THE ROAD FOR ENHANCED SAFETY WHILE ON THE ROAD. .

The Mirror1 Dash Cam brings together the expertise of Miofive’s team of developers to deliver the next generation of vehicle safety. The Mirror1 dash camera provides an enhanced view of the road, recording everything from your view to your location and speed on the road for added peace of mind should an accident occur. The central part of the Mirror1 is an 11.26inch IPS touchscreen with an anti-glare 2.4D curved design that, once attached to your existing rear-view mirror, provides a technologically advanced dash camera and rear-view mirror in one. When not in use, the dash camera’s reflective screen operates much like a typical rear-view mirror, with its large size providing a decent view of the road behind you. Then, once turned on, the screen displays a detailed 138° view of the road behind you, providing an even greater field of view than many typical rearview mirrors supported by the STARVISS 2 IMX675 sensor.

However, the great tech in the dash cam unit does end there, because on the back of the rearview mirror screen is the front-facing dash camera that captures the road in front of you

in 4k, thanks to the SONY IMX415 sensor. Together, the front and rear cameras provide an unparalleled view of the road, capturing every turn, movement and manoeuvre in crystal clear clarity. These cameras deliver great image quality whether during the day or at night, with each one operating at 30FPs. You can then review the footage captured using your phone via the Miofive App. This seamlessly connects to the dash camera with 5Ghz Wi-Fi and Bluetooth connectivity, which allows you to manage your recordings, zoom into videos for further inspection and then share those clips should they be needed as evidence. In addition, the app also allows you to keep the device up to date with the latest OTA firmware updates to ensure it remains current and ready to serve you with the latest technology and features.

However, the Mirror1 is designed to go beyond just being a dash camera; in fact, it’s been designed with enhanced AI-driven assistance systems which help make your driving experience safer. The dash camera features an alert system designed with UK driving conditions in mind to help keep you aware of your speed and let you know when you’re exceeding the speed limit on the road. This helps to hold you accountable and promotes safer driving. In addition to this, the dash camera can provide real-time alerts for traffic and lane departures to help enhance your awareness on the road. Plus, for even more added safety, you can customise your view, allowing you to see the front, rear or a split screen of both at once on the rearview mirror screen. This allows for enhanced visibility on the roads and a more versatile perspective to ensure

every movement is safe and your blind spots are more adequately covered. Should an accident occur, the cameras have a three-axis G-sensor that automatically detects and locks the footage during impact to ensure it captures the event, what led up to it and the outcome. It does this to ensure that, should you need to make an insurance claim or police report, you have the footage of the event securely stored to back up your version of events. Plus, you can easily watch back and zoom in on your recorded footage via the Miofive app. I was super glad to see that the dash camera comes with a 128GB SD card in the unit, designed for capturing high-speed footage. Unlike many dash cameras that don’t come with an SD card, the Mirror1 makes it super easy to open, set up and get recording without any additional purchases. Plus, with loop recording, the oldest footage is recorded over in favour of new footage, to ensure you never run out of space. The only difficult thing about the Mirror 1 is that it can be a little more complex to set up than a smaller single-camera dash camera. However, this is to be expected for the payoff you get with the front and rear camera, and rear-view mirror display. Thankfully, Miofive have tried to make this as easy as possible with a 3-in-1 power cable system that minimises the number of wires and means that the unit’s GPS, front camera and power are all integrated into a sleeker and minimalist look across your car.

Unfortunately, accidents do occur, and many of us can be left facing costly insurance claims when liability cannot be determined. For this reason, investing in a good dash camera is the way forward to keep your own record of events should an accident occur. With Miofive you are not just investing in a great dash camera, but you are investing in an all-around innovative unit that is designed for enhanced safety and visibility. Whilst the price is more on the premium side for the dash camera market, you are getting two premium quality cameras and an innovative display (not to mention all the great safety and GPS features) all for one price. Therefore, the Mirror1 is an investment, but a worthy one for enhanced visibility and safety when on the roads.

PROS:

Available on Amazon now for £229.99 (With the £30 voucher applied)

- 4k and 2k cameras for enhanced image capture and a crystalclear view of the road

- Innovative rear-view mirror display which can be adjusted for your preferred camera (front, rear or both)

- Comes with an SD Card installed for plug-and-play functionality

- Seamless connectivity with the Miofive app to view, manage and share footage

CONS:

- Premium price point for the everyday use dash camera market, but worth the investment for the dual camera, display and enhanced safety feature

RIDERR VUE CAM

£89.99 https://www.nevis.uk.com/products/ riderr/action_cameras/riderr_vue_ camera_black/

WITH THE WINTER MONTHS SOON UPON US, ROAD CONDITIONS CONTINUE TO DETERIORATE, AND THE EARLY SUNSETS LEAVE POOR VISIBILITY FOR MANY MOTORISTS. AS A BIKER, THIS LOW VISIBILITY MAKES RIDING FEEL A LITTLE MORE PRECARIOUS, AS MANY MOTORISTS FORGET TO CHECK THEIR MIRRORS FOR BIKES, INSTEAD FOCUSING ON THE ROAD CONDITIONS AHEAD. THEREFORE, LIKE MANY CARS, THE NEED FOR A CAMERA ON YOUR BIKE TO CAPTURE THE ROAD AND KEEP A RECORD OF EVENTS SHOULD AN ACCIDENT OCCUR IS AN ESSENTIAL, AND SO RIDERR HAVE DEVELOPED THE VUE CAM, DESIGNED TO CAPTURE EVERY RIDE IN CRYSTAL CLEAR CLARITY. The RIDERR Vue Cam is a small unit, designed to clip onto the side of your helmet or to the base of your rear-view mirror to capture the road in front of you. The cam is nice and compact, ideal for placing on your helmet or bike without it getting in the way. Despite its compact size, the RIDERR Vue Cam is a powerful device ready to deliver high-performance recording to keep you and other drivers on the road accountable. The cam can record in full 1080p, offering a full HD camera with a 115° wide-angle

lens. This ensures that every second of your journey is captured, even in low lighting. To achieve this, the camera features a Sony Starvis Sensor, which is an ultra-high sensitivity image sensor designed to capture all the details of the road even in low light. Thanks to this high-resolution recording, the camera captures a clear record of events on the

road, giving me a little more peace of mind that, should an accident occur, everyone is kept accountable.

The RIDER Vue Cam is remarkably easy to set up, thanks to the included installation and operation manuals in the box, which give a simple step-by-step method of how to attach and get started with the camera. The box includes

everything you would need to attach the camera to your helmet or bike, making it super easy to get the camera in place and ready to record. The controls of the camera are super easy, and once you’ve installed an SD card, you are ready to go. My only slight complaint is that the camera does not come with an SD card; instead, this is something you will need to provide yourself. Whilst I understand that including such an SD card might increase the price, which is otherwise on the more affordable side, it would be nice to see an SD card pre-installed into the camera to give a more plug-and-play feel to the dash camera.

The camera records footage in 5-minute increments, which can then be stitched together. This helps support better footage storage, whilst still ensuring every second of your ride is captured. In fact, the camera’s resolution can even be adjusted from 1080p to 720p, to help support smaller capacity SD cards, whilst still providing a reliable view of the road. In addition to this, the camera is designed to loop record over the oldest saved recordings to ensure you never run out of space when you might need it most. Then, to access the recordings, the RIDERR Vue Cam can easily be connected to your phone via its wireless 2.4Ghz connection, where you can access realtime video and look back, and download your past recordings. Additionally, the camera is able to continuously record for 8 hours straight thanks to the powerful

2600mAh battery built into the camera. This long battery life is ideal for long rides or multiple short rides over multiple days, ensuring you always have the camera charged and ready to go.

Overall, the RIDERR Vue Cam is a durable, waterproof and reliable dash camera for your motorbike that provides a clear picture of the road and provides your own version of events should an incident occur. If you have a biker in your life or are yet to venture into the world of motorbike dash cameras, the RIDERR Vue Cam is the perfect place to start.

Check out the RIDERR Vue Cam and other great motorcycle products at Nevis here: https:// www.nevis.uk.com/

PROS:

- Rugged, waterproof and durable camera designed to withstand all types of weather

- Crystal clear clarity, even in low lighting, for a clear record of events

- Long battery life to support hours of footage capture

CONS:

- The Riderr Vue Cam does not come with an included SD card, so this would be something you would need to provide or purchase in addition to the camera to use it

TERMS & CONDITIONS

AT GADGET HEAD, OUR AIM IS TO GIVE OUR READERS THE MOST HONEST REVIEWS WE CAN.

We also seek to provide all manufacturers with an equal opportunity to promote their goods: in fact, we are incredibly proud that startup companies have just as much of a chance to feature in our magazine as established brands do. How do we ensure all of this? Our policy is simple: we do not offer sponsored reviews. Instead, if you send us goods to review, we reserve to right to keep and sell these on. By funding our magazine in this way, we can guarantee that we are not publishing paid-for opinions or prioritizing larger companies, and there are no hidden fees to having your product reviewed and featured.

Copy Editor Carley Fallows hello@thegadgethead.com

Lead Designer Adam Knights

Lead Designer Alina Sandu studio@littlegatepublishing.com

Publisher Stephen Warman stevewarman@littlegatepublishing.com

MAXIA 4 THE NEW GENERATION OF THE LEGEND

GIVI’S most popular top case, totally redesigned. Stylish as never before, versatile and as strong as ever.

• ABS cover with a new design

• Internally strengthened outer edge

• Double cover made from plastic and aluminium

• New outer band

• New optical reflectors with small reflector on the outer band

• Capacity: 56 lt