Issuu

THE

Issue 67 October 2026

Review Smiths

October brings so much change, the evenings get darker, the jumpers come back out and Halloween gives us a very good excuse to fill the house with pumpkins, sweets and things that glow in the dark. It is also the time of year when we start spending a bit more time indoors, which means this month’s issue has ended up with a nice mix of practical kit, home comforts and things to make the colder months a little more enjoyable. The reMarkable Paper Pure has been keeping notes and ideas in one tidy place without the usual screen distractions, while the Kärcher K7 Comfort Premium is there for anyone determined to get the patio and paths sorted before winter properly sets in. For listening, we have the gloriously bass heavy Skullcandy Crusher 1080 ANC and the rather more specialist ddHiFi BC150G headphone cable. The Bluetti Elite 30 V2 brings some welcome backup power for trips, sheds and the inevitable seasonal power cut, while the BaByliss Super X Metal Series Single Foil is a smart little addition for keeping things tidy. So, whether October has you heading outside with a pressure washer or hiding indoors with headphones on, there is plenty to get stuck into this month. Editor-in-Chief The Review Smiths

Managing Director Alex Hilling-Smith

Senior Writer Emma Hilling-Smith For all media related enquiries please contact us at info@thereviewsmiths.com For Advertising Enquiries 0208 191 8472 www.thereviewsmiths.com

CONTENTS

04. Skullcandy Crusher 1080 ANC 06. Bamix DeLuxe 08. Storz and Bickel Volcano Hybrid 10. TOZO NC9 Pro 12. 70mai A810 Lite 14. Sassyspud Unisex Pigeon Poo T-Shirt 16. GUNNAR Screen Glasses 18. ThinkTank PhotoCross 20. BaByliss Super X Metal Series Single Foil 22. Stiksen 107 Linen Sky Blue 24. Babysense Prisma 26. Soundpeats UU2 28. Bluetti Elite 30 V2 30. Wacaco Prestina 31. Symbiote Spider-Man Cable Guy 32. reMarkable Paper Pure 34. Spider-Man Crystal Art Mega Activity Set 36. Lush Sparkly Pumpkin Bath Bomb 37. Lush Self Scare Gift Set 38. Cearvol Nano 2 40. Cearvol Wave 42. Compressport Stream Trisuit 44. KardiaMobile 46. Playmags 200 Piece Set Magnetic Tiles Racetrack 48. Kärcher K7 Comfort Premium 50. Kiwi Ears Belle 52. Ocean Bottle 53. Pantherella Laburnum 54.Hyperx Origins 2 1800 56. ddHiFi BC150G 58. Edifier ES60 60. TORMEK

Skullcandy Crusher 1080 ANC If you like your music with a little bass, the Skullcandy Crusher 1080 ANC would like a word. If you like your bass strong enough to make your head vibrate, well, these might be your new best friends. We will skip right to the fun bit that is Skullcandy’s adjustable Crusher Bass, this a controlled by a physical wheel on the earcup. Turn it up and you don't just hear the bass, you physically feel it. It is gloriously excessive with the right music, although thankfully you can dial it right back when podcasts and phone calls don't need to sound like they're being broadcast from the centre of the Earth. What makes this generation more interesting is the addition of Sound by Bose technology. Bose QuietControl adaptive ANC helps shut out surrounding noise, while Bose TrueSpatial adds a more spacious, immersive soundstage. The WaveForm audio engine is designed to keep things balanced, so there is considerably more going on here than just an excuse to shake your skull about. Battery life is powerful, with up to 60 hours with ANC switched off and 50 hours with it on. A 10 minute charge can add more than four hours of listening, which is handy when you've inevitably forgotten to charge them. Bluetooth 5.3, multipoint connectivity and USB C make them suitably modern, while wear detection can automatically pause your music when you take them off. The Skullcandy app adds preset EQ modes and a custom five band EQ, giving you plenty of control over the sound. There is also microphone processing for clearer calls and support for spatial audio with head tracking. They are chunky and, at around 374g, noticeably heavier than some rivals, so long listening sessions can leave you aware they're on your head. There are four colours to chose from but nothing too out of the ordinary black, pink, grey and a light brown. Still, the Crusher 1080 ANC feels like a much more grown-up pair of Crushers. They're fun (not visually), feature packed and surprisingly capable, while retaining the wonderfully bonkers bass that made the range famous.

For more information on Skullcandy Crusher 1080 ANC click here

Big bass, strong ANC and impressive battery life make the Skullcandy Crusher 1080 ANC a fun, feature packed choice for music lovers.

Pros

£219.99

Physically adjustable sensory bass Bose adaptive ANC Up to 60 hours battery life Bluetooth 5.3 and multipoint USB C fast charging Custom EQ through the app Immersive spatial audio Clearer calls with mic processing Cons Quite heavy at around 374g

Bass can be overwhelming at higher levels Bulky compared with some rivals Some features require the Skullcandy app

Bamix DeLuxe I have to admit, my mum had one of these, back in the day and I never knew what it was for. It certainly wasn’t as swanky looking as this model however, it is reassuringly unfussy, built in Switzerland and designed to do far more than simply blitz soup. Its power comes from a 200W motor with two speeds, spinning at up to 17,000rpm. That gives it enough umph for everything from smooth soups and sauces to smoothies, mashed potato and even crushing ice. It can also tackle less obvious jobs such as whipping cream and egg whites, mixing batters and making mayonnaise. The clever bit is the collection of interchangeable stainless-steel attachments. You get a multi-purpose blade for blending and chopping, a beater for things such as mashed potato and cake mixtures, and a whisk for emulsifying and whipping. There is also a grinder for hard spices, herbs, coffee, nuts and chocolate. Suddenly that little stick blender starts looking like several kitchen appliances hiding in one body, without the restriction of a bowls compacity. It is also wonderfully simple to use. There are just two buttons step one for 12,000 rpm step two for 17,000 rpm. The attachments swap onto the end and the blending shaft is watertight, so it can be immersed right up to the handle. Cleaning is similarly straightforward: rinse the working end under the tap or run it briefly in a bowl of jug of warm soapy water. The supplied stand keeps everything neat and tidy on the worktop, although the 940g weight means this isn't the lightest food processor around, even if it is the smallest. It comes in three colours, silver, black and white. The DeLuxe feels built for the long haul with Swiss manufacturing and a lifetime motor warranty. It quickly becomes one of the go to kitchen appliances, which is good considering the price tag, and can genuinely replace several other gadgets.

A beautifully made, versatile hand blender that tackles everything from soup to whipped cream, although its premium price and weight may give pause. For more information on the Bamix DeLuxe click here

£190

Pros Fast and powerful 200W motor 12,000 rpm and 17,000 rpm speed settings Interchangeable stainless-steel attachments Blends, chops, whisks and beats Includes grinder attachment Easy to clean Watertight blending shaft Swiss made Long motor warranty Cons Expensive for a hand blender Quite heavy at around 940g Some attachments need a little practice to use well

A premium desktop vaporiser with excellent build quality, precise temperature control and versatile inhalation options, although its hefty price demands serious commitment.

Pros Excellent build quality Dual balloon and tube inhalation system Fast 40 second heat up Precise temperature control Consistent vapour production Bluetooth app connectivity Generous selection of accessories Made in Germany Cons Very expensive Bulky and not portable Requires mains power Balloons need replacing periodically Cleaning and maintenance can be fiddly

Storz and Bickel Volcano Hybrid The Storz and Bickel Volcano Hybrid looks like something you might find in a science laboratory, and to be fair that's half its charm. This German made desktop vaporiser has a rather serious price tag, but it brings some equally serious engineering to the table. The Hybrid's party trick is its dual inhalation system. You can fill one of the Easy Valve balloons and enjoy the vapour at your leisure, or use the supplied tube for direct inhalation. This gives you two different ways to use the same machine, without having to choose between them. Underneath the cone sits a combination of convection and conduction heating, designed to deliver consistent, flavourful vapour. The double helix heat exchanger gets the device up to 180°C in around 40 seconds, a vast improvement over the slow warm up of older Volcano models. Temperature can be adjusted precisely between 40°C and 230°C using the integrated touch controls and digital display. There's also Bluetooth connectivity and the Storz & Bickel Web App, which lets you adjust settings remotely. Because apparently even your vaporiser needs an app these days. Build quality is reassuringly robust, with a ceramic coated filling chamber, detachable power cable and robust construction. The box includes balloons, a tube kit, grinder and cleaning accessories, so you're not immediately hunting around for extras. Register the device within four weeks and you can extend the standard two-year warranty by another year. There are drawbacks, of course. At around 1.8kg, this is strictly a stay at home gadget, and the balloon system requires occasional replacement parts. The price will also make your wallet consider moving out. Still, the Volcano Hybrid combines precise temperature control, flexible inhalation options and excellent engineering in one distinctive package. It's expensive, enormous and gloriously overengineered, but that's rather the appeal.

€598

For more information on the Storz and Bickel Volcano Hybrid click here

TOZO NC9 Pro A touchscreen on an earbud charging case sounds suspiciously like a gimmick that can be used to charge you extra however with these earbuds coming in at just £46 that cannot be the situation here. The TOZO NC9 Pro makes a surprisingly convincing argument for giving your earbud case a little more responsibility. The display lets you adjust volume, switch noise cancelling modes and control playback without having to fish your phone out of your pocket. It quickly becomes a genuinely useful addition, particularly when you're commuting or have your hands full. The sound is surprisingly pleasant with Hi Res Audio Wireless certification and LDAC support, the NC9 Pro is designed for detailed wireless listening on compatible devices. There's plenty of bass for anyone who likes their music with a bit of oomph, while the TOZO app offers customisable EQ settings for those who prefer something more balanced. Hybrid active noise cancellation helps take the edge off traffic or office chatter. Transparency mode lets you hear what's happening around you without removing the buds, while six microphones work to improve voice clarity during calls. Call quality is good enough, although windy conditions can cause problems. Bluetooth 6.0 connectivity includes dual device pairing, which is handy when switching between a laptop and phone. Battery life is good with up to 60 hours including the charging case depending on the settings. Fast charging provides a useful top up when you've forgotten to plug them in overnight. The earbuds themselves are fairly conventional looking, with silicone tips to help achieve a secure fit. Comfort will depend on your ears, however, and the touchscreen case is understandably bulkier than a basic charging case. The NC9 Pro manages to squeeze a surprising amount of technology into an affordable pair of earbuds. The touchscreen could easily have been a gimmick, but combined with enjoyable sound, useful noise cancellation and generous battery life, it gives these little buds a personality of their own.

£46

For more information on the TOZO NC9 Pro click here

The TOZO NC9 Pro combines enjoyable sound, clever touchscreen controls and impressive battery life, delivering plenty of useful features without a hefty price tag.

Pros Handy touchscreen charging case Hi Res Audio Wireless with LDAC support Customisable EQ through the app Hybrid active noise cancellation Transparency mode Bluetooth multipoint connectivity Up to 60 hours battery life with case Fast charging Cons Touchscreen case is fairly bulky Call quality suffers in windy conditions Bass may be too strong for some tastes Fit and comfort depend on ear shape

70mai A810 Lite

Dash cams have become integrated into our driving culture; it is no longer a luxury piece of technology. The 70mai A810 Lite makes a good case for having one without making your windscreen look like mission control, plus it can keep you safe and encourage you to make safe driving decisions. It is compact, roughly the same size as a bank card, dinky easy enough to tuck behind your rear-view mirror, where it can quietly record your journeys without demanding your attention. The front camera records in 4K, giving you plenty of detail when you need to make out number plates or exactly what happened when someone decided that indicating was apparently optional. There is HDR to help balance tricky lighting and an f/1.55 aperture for better low light performance, so footage remains useful even with the British gloomy weather we have coming our way. The rear camera offers you 1080p coverage behind you, although front recording drops from 30fps to 24/25fps when both cameras are running. The 3.18-inch display makes checking footage and changing settings straightforward, while the built in GPS records your speed and location. The Wi Fi 6 makes it much quicker to transfer larger 4K clips to your phone rather than playing memory card roulette. There are some clever extras for parked cars, too but only when adding the optional hardwire kit. This can provide parking surveillance, buffered emergency recording and time lapse recording. An optional 4G kit also adds remote monitoring and alerts. The A810 Lite isn't pretending to be the fanciest dash cam money can buy, it simply comes with the basics needed, you can then add any extras you may find useful all be it at an extra cost. For a sensible price, you get sharp 4K footage, rear camera support, GPS, HDR and plenty of useful extras.

£84.99

A feature packed 4K dash cam with sharp footage, GPS, fast Wi Fi and useful parking protection, without the premium price tag. For more information on the 70mai A810 Lite click here

Pros 4K front recording 1080p rear camera option Good low light performance HDR for tricky lighting Built in GPS Fast Wi Fi 6 Parking surveillance with optional hardwire kit Compact design Cons Front recording drops to 24/25fps with rear camera Some useful features need optional extras No Sony STARVIS 2 sensor like the pricier A810S

Sassyspud Unisex Pigeon Poo T-Shirt Some T shirts are there to quietly finish off an outfit. The to wear regularly. The unisex shape is relaxed rather than Sassy Spud Pigeon Poo T Shirt is there to make people fitted, and there are a decent number of colours to choose look twice and probably laugh. Sassy Spud starting as from if you green isn’t your colour. a one-woman-band in Ireland the brand known for its Sassy Spud prints its clothing to order, which means less “aggressively cute” designs, mixing daft humour, animals unnecessary stock sitting around, and the brand also and slightly unhinged slogans across T shirts, hoodies and makes a point of using ethical manufacturing (100% accessories. zero sweatshops) and biodegradable packaging. Theres an The design involves a cartoon pigeon, sat in a less than irony to attempting to be more environmentally conscious conventional pigeon way, running its mouth like it probably whilst having a bird through insults at you, but it is nice would if given the chance. It is stupid in a very deliberate to know you are doing your bit. way, and that is pretty much the appeal. If your wardrobe The print itself is bold and clear, and the whole thing has leans more towards odd little graphics than tasteful enough personality to work with jeans, shorts or under an slogans, it fits right in. open shirt without needing much effort. The good news is that the joke has not been slapped onto The price means it’s not a bargain basement novelty tee, a rubbish T shirt. It is made from 100% organic cotton, but it isn’t reserved for elite either. Really, though, you are so it feels soft straight away and has that slightly more buying it because the design makes you laugh. substantial feel you want from a tee you are actually going And on that front, it does the job perfectly.

£27

For more information on the Sassyspud Unisex Pigeon Poo T-Shirt click here

A soft, well made organic cotton tee with a brilliantly daft design, ethical production and enough personality to stand out.

Pros Fun, distinctive design Soft 100% organic cotton Relaxed unisex fit Several colour options Made to order Vegan and ethically produced Biodegradable packaging Cons Humour will not suit everyone Print needs gentle washing to stay looking its best

GUNNAR Screen Glasses GUNNAR is a brand best known for eyewear designed around prolonged screen use, its glasses typically combine blue light filtering, UV protection and anti-reflective coatings. Its frames range from fairly subtle everyday styles to much bolder gaming designs with licensed collaborations, which gives the range a bit more personality than your average pair of screen glasses.

From £59.70 Starting with the most obviously collectable of the bunch, the GUNNAR Fallout Lucky 38 glasses lean heavily into retro casino styling. They feature round silver frames and removable leather side shields give them a proper New Vegas vibe without tipping completely into costume territory. Underneath the Fallout detailing you still get GUNNAR’s blue light filtering lens technology, anti reflective G Shield Plus coating and full UV protection. At 38g they have a reassuringly substantial feel, while the collector case, pouch and themed cleaning cloth add to the presentation. They are bold, slightly eccentric and very much designed for Fallout fans who want something they can actually wear.

If the Lucky 38 is the bolder of the collection, the Oakland in Crystal Dusk is its much more understated cousin. The softly purple translucent frame gives it some personality, but the rounded square shape is conventional enough for work, gaming or everyday wear. At just 22g it is noticeably lighter too. The durable nylon construction, fixed nose bridge and medium fit make it an easy, unfussy option, while GUNNAR’s lens technology, dual sided anti reflective coating and blue light protection handle the practical side. It is probably the easiest of the five to wear without anyone immediately asking what game it came from.

The Intercept in Crystal Cobalt takes that everyday approach and gives it a chunkier, more familiar gaming glasses look. Its rectangular nylon frame has been one of GUNNAR’s more recognisable designs for years, and the bright Crystal Cobalt finish gives it a welcome splash of colour. Sturdy multi barrel hinges, a fixed bridge and a 33g weight make it feel more solid than the Oakland, while the broad lenses provide plenty of screen coverage. As with the others, you get blue light filtering, 100% UV protection and an anti-reflective coating. It also supports prescription lenses, which makes it one of the more practical choices here.

From practical to archaeological chic, the Tomb Raider Croft glasses are easily the most elegant of the group. Created for Tomb Raider’s 30th anniversary, they use a classic round stainless steel frame with warm bronze tones and subtle detailing inspired by Lara Croft’s adventuring gear. They weigh only 28g and feel more like stylish everyday eyewear than gaming equipment. GUNNAR’s blue light filtering and anti reflective lens technology is still present, but the collector extras are half the fun, including a Dagger of Xian pin, themed cloth, pouch and case. They strike a nice balance between fan merchandise and something you would genuinely wear outside the house.

Then there is the Cyberpunk 2077 Dex, which has absolutely no interest in being subtle. Inspired by Dexter DeShawn, its oversized single shield lens, angular shape and brushed nickel frame look like they have wandered straight out of Night City. The 40g construction feels appropriately substantial, while GUNNAR’s premium anti reflective and smudge resistant coating helps keep that enormous lens usable. Blue light and UV protection are included, alongside themed Cyberpunk packaging and a padded sleeve. It is unquestionably the most divisive design here, but also the one most likely to get noticed. If you want your gaming glasses to actually look like gaming glasses, Dex delivers.

GUNNAR combines practical screen protection with distinctive styling, offering everything from subtle everyday frames to bold gaming designs and collectable collaborations. For more information on the GUNNAR Screen Glasses click here

Pros Strong blue light protection across the range 100% UV protection Anti reflective lens coatings Plenty of genuinely distinctive designs Good choice of understated and collectable styles

Several models support prescription lenses Lightweight options available Official Fallout, Tomb Raider and Cyberpunk designs

Collector accessories are particularly good with licensed models

Solid build quality throughout Cons Some designs are definitely not subtle Licensed models are noticeably more expensive Amber lenses can alter colour perception Fit varies considerably between frame styles The Dex may be too large and bold for everyday wear

Collector extras may not matter if you simply want screen glasses

Some styles suit particular face shapes better than others

Pros Close shave on short stubble Slim metal handle offers good control Waterproof for wet or dry use Easy to rinse clean USB C charging and useful battery display Travel lock and protective cover Cons Longer facial hair may need trimming first Single foil covers less area per pass Replacement foils add to the cost Long recharge time

£80

For more information on the BaByliss Super X Metal Series Single Foil click here

BaByliss Super X Metal Series Single Foil

The BaByliss Super X Metal Series Single Foil is a Japanese steel cutting system with an integrated trimmer bar, built for practical grooming, giving you a close finish without making a whole production of it. The slim metal handle feels more substantial than the average plastic shaver, while the single Black Titanium foil is designed to follow the contours of your face. A precision trimmer bar helps catch short stubble, including the awkward bits around the jaw and upper lip. The narrow head also gives you more control when cleaning up the edges of a beard or sideburns. You can use it wet or dry, depending on whether you prefer a quick shave at the sink or one with shaving gel. Its IPX7 waterproof rating also makes cleaning straightforward. Simply rinse the head when you are done, rather than spending ages picking stray hairs out of it. A magnetic cover protects the foil when the shaver is packed away. The rechargeable battery provides 1 hour of shaving time at the cost of 3 hours charging time, not the longest out there but the LED battery display will keep you informed of what levels you are on. If you do run out completely the 10-minute quick charge will deliver 5 minutes of use to help you get out the door. There is a travel lock, too, which should stop it buzzing away in your wash bag. BaByliss includes a charging cable, cleaning brush and storage pouch. A single foil is best suited to regular upkeep and finishing shorter stubble. If you tend to leave your beard growing for a week, you will probably want to trim it down first. Replacement foils are another expense to bear in mind. For someone who shaves often and likes a compact tool with a bit of weight to it, though, this is a smart, unfussy addition to the bathroom shelf.

The BaByliss Super X Single Foil makes regular shaving straightforward, with a close finish, sturdy metal handle and useful travel features.

£79

Pros Light, breathable linen for warmer days Structured shape holds its form Three sizes with an adjustable strap Versatile sky blue colour Natural texture gives it character Cons Expensive for a baseball cap High crown will not suit everyone Linen can crease and show wear

Stiksen 107 Linen Sky Blue Some baseball caps look as though they were bought at a petrol station on the way to the beach. Stiksen deliver so much more, and the 107 Linen is no exception. We were lucky enough to receive it in Sky Blue but is also available in seven other colours including Indio, Ash and White. The difference starts with the fabric these caps are made from 100% linen, it has a natural texture that gives the pale blue colour a little depth. It is light and breathable too, which makes much more sense on a warm day than a thick cap that leaves you desperate to take it off and terrible hat hair. Paired with a T shirt and shorts, it looks relaxed; with a linen shirt, it looks like you planned your outfit. The 107 has a structured, six panel crown with a higher profile. It holds a defined baseball cap shape instead of slouching down onto your head. That is great if you like a bit of presence from a cap, although anyone after a soft, low fitting style may prefer something else. Stiksen has given the fit some proper thought, rather than expecting one size to work for everybody, it offers small, medium and large, each with an adjustable strap at the back. The strap gives you roughly 2cm of adjustment either way so you can get a comfortable fit without relying on a long tail of excess fabric to do all the work, the metal buckle keeps things looking high end too. Checking the size chart before ordering is still a sensible option. The catch is the price, at £79, this asks considerably more of your wallet than a casual holiday cap which is also going to make you more protective of it. Linen also has its own lived in character, so anyone who wants a crisp, flawless finish at all times may find the fabric less appealing. If you wear caps often, the breathable material, careful fit and smart shape give the 107 a reason to earn its place by the front door. However, if your caps tend to reside in the footwell of your car when not on your head, you might want to look for an alternative.

The Stiksen 107 pairs breathable linen with a smart, structured fit, making it a lovely cap if the price suits you. For more information on the Stiksen 107 Linen Sky Blue click here

The Babysense Prisma keeps nursery monitoring simple, with a clear screen, useful soothing features and a two camera option for growing families.

Pros Clear 5-inch screen with night vision Remote camera movement and zoom Split screen viewing with the two-camera version No Wi Fi or app required Night light, lullabies and white noise Good parent unit battery life Cons No viewing from your phone when away from home Split screen makes each image smaller Audio plays from one camera at a time Extra cameras cost more For more information on the Babysense Prisma click here

Babysense Prisma

There is a particular kind of bedtime optimism that involves putting a child down, closing the door and believing you might get to finish a cup of tea while it is still hot. The Babysense Prisma cannot deliver that, but it can save you a few trips upstairs to check whether they are asleep or quietly shredding their favourite story book. The Prisma uses a dedicated parent unit rather than your phone, so there is no apps to open or Wi Fi connection to rely on, making it handy for babysitters to take over nighttime duties. The 5 inch, 720p screen shows the nursery clearly, with night vision for those after dark checks. You can move the camera remotely to look around the room and zoom in when the shape on screen could be a cuddly toy or an opportunistic pet cat. It comes in one and two camera options. Choose the latter and you can take advantage of the split screen which lets you keep an eye on two children or rooms at once, you can always buy an additional camera later to take advantage of this as well. That is genuinely useful, though each picture is naturally smaller, and you can only hear audio from one camera at a time. The system can also accommodate up to four cameras if your household grows. The cameras do more than watch, each has an adjustable 6-colour night light and the lullabies and white noise functions may help settle a restless baby. Two-way talk lets you offer a quick reassurance without immediately going in, although parents will know how often that works depends entirely on the baby. Babysense claims up to 12 hours of parent unit battery life when in regular mode, or up to 20 hours in eco mode before the 4000mAh battery needs recharging. The range reaches 300m in open space, but walls and floors may affect what you get at home. Other features include hack-proof and secure connection, temperature alerts and SCAN mode which alternates audio and visual between cameras every 15-20 seconds, ensuring both rooms are covered. The trade-off is that you cannot check the camera from your phone while you are out. For parents who want a straightforward monitor beside the sofa or bed, though, the Prisma covers the essentials and adds a few welcome comforts.

£159.99 25

Soundpeats UU2

The SoundPEATS UU2 has attempted to take on an issue that open ear earbuds often struggle with and that’s bass, but more on that in a bit. The benefit of open ear audio is that rather than sealing your ears away from the world, these clip around them, leaving your ears open so you can still hear what is happening around you. Each bud weighs around 5g and uses a flexible bridge, making them light enough for long listening sessions and a particularly good option if you find conventional in ear buds uncomfortable. The open design also makes then useful for running or walking when you want your music without completely disappearing into your own little audio bubble. They have an IPX5 rating for sweat and splashes too. Sound comes from a 12mm dual magnet dynamic driver, with DynamicEQ helping give the UU2 considerably more low end than you might expect from an open ear design. Bass is punchy rather than merely hinted at, while vocals remain clear and the treble gives enough to stop things sounding flat. Getting the position right is important, though, as the bass can change noticeably depending on how the buds sit around your ears, this can take a bit of practice. Bluetooth 6.0 brings LDAC support, multipoint connectivity and a claimed range of up to 15 metres, while the physical buttons are a welcome choice over fiddly touch controls. There is also a SoundPEATS app with EQ customisation, spatial audio and other settings, including a useful hearing based adaptive EQ. The battery life won’t let you down with up to 10 hours from the buds and 42 hours including the charging case. A quick 10 minute charge provides around two hours of playback. They aren't perfect however, sound leakage is inevitable with an open design, calls are manageable but not brilliant and there is no ANC, obviously. But for anyone wanting comfortable, awareness friendly earbuds without sacrificing all their bass, the UU2 is a surprisingly capable little package.

Lightweight open ear buds with surprisingly punchy bass, long battery life and useful features, making them a great choice for staying aware. For more information on the Soundpeats UU2 click here

£59.99

Pros Open ear design keeps you aware of your surroundings Punchy bass for open ear buds Lightweight and comfortable IPX5 water resistance Bluetooth 6.0 with LDAC Multipoint connectivity Physical buttons Up to 42 hours with charging case Useful companion app Cons Sound leakage is noticeable Call quality is only average Bass depends on getting the fit right

Bluetti Elite 30 V2

The Bluetti Elite 30 V2 is the sort of gadget you don't realise you need until you're camping, or sitting in the dark with two small telly addicted children during a power cut. Thankfully, this compact portable power station has enough going on to make itself useful well beyond the occasional emergency. Weighing just 4.3kg, it's portable enough to take on a weekend away but you certainly won’t be carrying it inside a rucksack. Inside is a 288Wh lithium iron phosphate battery, designed to retain at least 80% of its original capacity after more than 3,000 charge cycles. The 600W output is enough for laptops, lights, small appliances and the inevitable collection of phones demanding a boost. Bluetti's Power Lifting mode can also handle certain resistive appliances rated up to 1,500W, although don't expect it to run your entire kitchen by the campfire. Connectivity comes with a generous amount of options, with a UK mains socket, two USB-A ports, two USB-C ports delivering up to 100W and 140W, and three DC outputs. That means you can charge several gadgets simultaneously without everyone fighting over priority. Charging is quick, reaching 80% in around 45 minutes from the mains. You can also recharge using a compatible solar panel or your car, making it particularly handy for longer trips away from civilisation. Bluetooth and Wi-Fi connectivity let you monitor power levels and adjust settings through the Bluetti app. There's also a UPS function with a switchover time of 10 milliseconds or less, helping compatible devices stay powered during an outage. Handy when you're halfway through something important and the electricity decides to quit on you. The main limitation is capacity. At 288Wh, this is better suited to smaller devices and short emergencies than running power hungry appliances for hours. It isn't waterproof either, so camping trips require a little common sense. Still, the Elite 30 V2 packs plenty of useful features into a compact, practical package. It's a reassuring little box of electricity that's equally at home on a campsite or tucked away for the next power cut.

£239

For more information on Bluetti Elite 30 V2 click here

Compact, versatile and surprisingly powerful, the Bluetti Elite 30 V2 delivers fast charging, plenty of connections and dependable backup power for life off grid.

Pros Compact and lightweight at 4.3kg 600W output with 1,500W Power Lifting mode Fast mains charging Long lasting LiFePO4 battery Plenty of USB and DC connections Solar and car charging options Bluetooth and Wi-Fi app connectivity Useful UPS functionality Quiet Cons Limited 288Wh capacity Not suitable for prolonged use with high power appliances Not waterproof Solar panel sold separately

Wacaco Prestina

The Wacaco Prestina is a compact manual coffee brewer built around a rather clever idea that the cup itself becomes the press. Simply add your ground coffee, pour in hot water, stir, leave it to brew, then press the chamber down over the cup. There is no electricity, no paper filters and very little faff. A reusable stainless-steel filter gives the coffee a fuller, richer texture, while the 240ml capacity is ideal for a proper single serving. Everything packs neatly together for travel, including the cup, scoop and stirrer. Simple, portable and refreshingly uncomplicated, it makes good coffee almost anywhere.

£26.90

For more information on Wacaco Prestina click here

Symbiote Spider-Man Cable Guy

£29.99 The Symbiote Spider Man Cable Guy is part collectible, part useful bit of desk furniture. Dressed in the black symbiote suit, Spider Man stands around 8.5 inches tall and is designed to hold a phone, gaming controller or remote between his hands. It works with most smartphones as well as PlayStation 5 DualSense and Xbox Series controllers, so it earns its space rather than simply looking good. A sturdy base helps keep everything balanced, while the included USB C cable is handy for charging. Officially licensed by Marvel, it is a fun choice for Spider Man fans and gamers alike. For more information on Symbiote Spider-Man Cable Guy click here

reMarkable Paper Pure There is something rather appealing about a gadget that deliberately does less. The reMarkable Paper Pure is not trying to replace your laptop, but instead provide all the convenience of a digital note book without the notifications, social media distractions and Wikipedia rabbit holes. The 10.3 inch monochrome Canvas display uses E Ink Carta 1300 and has a textured glass surface designed to recreate the drag of pen on paper. More importantly, the gap between the Marker tip and digital ink has been reduced to just 0.8mm, helping your handwriting appear almost exactly where you expect it to. It feels quick, precise and considerably more natural than scribbling on a shiny tablet screen. At around 360g and 6mm thick, the Paper Pure is light enough to carry around without giving your back something else to complain about. The standard Marker attaches magnetically and charges wirelessly on the tablet, while the pricier Marker Plus adds a built-in eraser. There are enough tools to help keep your notes organised without getting too hung up on design. These include nine different writing tools like ballpoint pens in different thicknesses, or pencils to sketch and highlighters. Notes can be organised into folders, converted from handwriting into typed text and synced with the reMarkable desktop and mobile apps. PDFs and EPUB files can also be imported for reading or annotation. There are no distracting apps or notifications competing for attention, which is either wonderfully refreshing particularly if you have an easily distractable character like I do. Battery life is excellent, with up to three weeks from a charge, and the 32GB of storage leaves plenty of room for notebooks and documents. The main omission is a front light, so bedtime note taking still requires an actual lamp but that is part of the appeal, less disruptive blue light pouring into your eyes. Some cloud features and handwriting search also sit behind the optional Connect subscription. The Paper Pure is intentionally uncomplicated. If you want an all purpose tablet, look elsewhere. If you want somewhere to think, scribble, plan and write without another notification appearing, its simplicity makes an awful lot of sense.

For more information on the reMarkable Paper Pure click here

A focused digital notebook with excellent handwriting feel, long battery life and useful organisation tools, though its simplicity will not suit everyone.

Pros Excellent paper like writing experience Sharp 10.3 inch E Ink display Very slim and lightweight Up to three weeks battery life £359 Handwriting to text conversion PDF and EPUB annotation Distraction free interface 32GB storage Cons No front light Limited compared with a full tablet Some features require a Connect subscription Marker Plus costs extra No colour option

Spider-Man Crystal Art Mega Activity Set

The Spider Man Crystal Art Mega Activity Set gives Marvel fans plenty to get stuck into, with four sparkly projects packed into one box. Using the included Running out of battery is never fun, but the INIU SnapGo Air (P781) makes staying charged easy. This slim crystals, pen, tray and wax, children simply match the coloured gems to the 10,000mAh power bank snaps securely onto compatible Qi2 and MagSafe devices, delivering fast 25W wireless numbered spaces to gradually bring each design to life. The set includes a Spider charging without the hassle of cables. Need even more speed? The 45W USB C port is ready for phones, tablets Man phone holder, 10 stickers, an artwork card with easel and a Spider Man mask and more. Despite packing plenty of power, it's compact enough to slip into a pocket or bag, while the handy fridge magnet, so there is a good mix of things to make and keep afterwards. It is digital display keeps you updated on the remaining battery. It's a simple, reliable companion for busy days, officially licensed by Marvel and recommended for children aged eight and over commutes and weekends away. with adult supervision.

£12.99

For more information on the Spider-Man Crystal Art Mega Activity Set click here

Lush Sparkly Pumpkin Bath Bomb The Lush Sparkly Pumpkin Bath Bomb brings a proper bit of autumn theatre to the bath. Shaped like a golden orange pumpkin and covered in plastic free shimmer, it fizzes away into colourful, sparkling water while releasing a bright, slightly spicy fragrance. Lime, juniper berry and geranium oils give it a fresh, uplifting scent rather than the usual sweet pumpkin spice. The oat milk powder helps soften the water to enrich your soak whilst organic pumpkin powder and coconut oil add a little extra skin softening goodness too. It is fun, seasonal and just ridiculous enough to make an ordinary bath feel much more interesting.

£7 For more information on the Lush Sparkly Pumpkin Bath Bomb click here

Lush Self Scare Gift Set

£16 The Lush Self Scare Gift Set is a small Halloween treat for anyone who prefers showers to sweeties. Inside you get Boo! Shower Gel and Ghost In The Dark Soap, both bringing plenty of seasonal fun without filling the bathroom with clutter. The ghost shaped soap adds a playful touch, while the shower gel keeps things simple and easy to use. Boo! mixes bright lemon, lime and bergamot with grounding cedarwood and seaweed, while Ghost In The Dark uses lemongrass, lemon and bergamot oils for a fresh, sweet citrus scent. At £16, it works nicely as a little present, host gift or excuse to buy yourself something spooky.

For more information on the Lush Self Scare Gift Set click here

Cearvol Nano 2

Hearing aids aren't exactly known for their exciting design, but the Cearvol Nano 2 is trying its best to change that. These tiny, rechargeable hearing aids provide some clever technology into a discreet package, without requiring you to work with fiddly buttons every time you want to adjust the volume. These have been designed for adults with mild to moderate hearing loss, the Nano 2 sits inside the ear canal like a regular earbud. The lightweight design and three sizes of silicone ear tips help provide a comfortable fit, while the low profile means they're unlikely to attract much attention. Cearvol's NeuroFlow AI 2.0 technology is designed to improve speech clarity and reduce background noise, with the company claiming a 24% improvement in speech clarity over its previous generation. Adaptive feedback cancellation also helps tackle that irritating whistling noise hearing aids can sometimes produce. You can adjust settings via either the all-in-one Smart Case or the app. There are three standard levels plus an all-new "My Fit" profile, which allows you to customise exactly how you need the Nano 2’s to respond. There are five listening environments to choose from too, including restaurant, TV and outdoor modes. The companion app also lets you personalise the sound using a hearing test and the My Fit feature. The case also it also features built in UV sanitisation, which Cearvol claims eliminates 99.9% of bacteria during charging. Battery life is strong, offering up to 16 hours per charge and 50 hours with the case. A quick 15-minute charge provides another three hours of use. There are limitations however, Bluetooth is used for app connectivity rather than streaming music or taking calls, and these aren't a substitute for professionally fitted hearing aids where more specialist support is needed. Still, the Nano 2 brings together discreet styling, useful personalisation and refreshingly straightforward controls. For those looking for accessible hearing support without unnecessary faff, there's plenty here to appreciate.

For more information on the Cearvol Nano 2 click here

Pros

$471.15

Discreet, lightweight design AI powered speech enhancement Five listening modes

Personalised sound through the app Physical controls on charging case Up to 50 hours battery life with case Quick charging Built in UV sanitisation Cons No Bluetooth music or call streaming Limited to mild to moderate hearing loss App setup may take some getting used to Not a substitute for professionally fitted hearing aids

Discreet, comfortable and packed with clever features, the Cearvol Nano 2 offers personalised hearing support, impressive battery life and refreshingly simple controls.

Pros AI powered speech enhancement Clever touchscreen charging case Remote microphone functionality Bluetooth music and call streaming Personalised hearing settings Four listening modes IPX5 water resistance Quick charging Cons Earbud design isn't particularly discreet Battery life could be better Touchscreen case adds extra bulk Not suitable for all levels of hearing loss Clever hearing aids with Bluetooth streaming, personalised sound and a touchscreen case that makes everyday adjustments simple, although the design won't suit everyone.

$687.47

Cearvol Wave The Wave from Cearvol has adopted a similar design as the Nano 2 by steering away from the chunky beige look and aiming more towards a pair of wireless earbuds. Designed for adults with mild to moderate hearing loss, the Wave uses Cearvol's NeuroFlow AI 2.0 technology to help separate voices from background noise. The company claims up to 20dB of noise reduction, while feedback cancellation tackles that annoying whistling sound. There is also technology to make your own voice sound more natural, rather than leaving you feeling like you're talking with your fingers in your ears. The Wave features a touchscreen charging case. This saves you from digging out your phone every time someone starts mumbling, you can adjust the volume, switch listening modes and fine tune noise reduction directly from the case. It even doubles as a remote microphone, picking up voices from up to 10 metres away. Handy for meetings, lectures or family dinners where everyone insists on talking at once. The four listening modes cover indoor, outdoor, restaurant and conversation settings, while the companion app offers a hearing test and personalised sound adjustments. Bluetooth streaming means you can also listen to music, watch videos and take calls, with dual device connectivity making switching between your phone and laptop straightforward. Battery life reaches up to 28 hours with the charging case, and a 15 minute top up provides around three hours of listening. IPX5 water resistance offers some reassurance when the British weather inevitably turns against you. The earbud style won't appeal to everyone, and the touchscreen case adds another gadget to carry around and new tech to learn. These also aren't intended for every type of hearing loss. Still, the Wave combines genuinely useful hearing technology with the convenience of modern wireless earbuds. The touchscreen case is particularly clever, making everyday adjustments refreshingly simple without constantly reaching for your phone.

For more information on the Cearvol Wave click here

Compressport Stream Trisuit Triathlon kit has a complicated job, it needs to feel right in the water, offer enough comfort on the bike and then let you run without restriction or chaffing. The Compressport Stream Trisuit takes a considered approach to all three, with particular attention to airflow and fit. This is a close fitting, short sleeved suit developed with professional athletes and tested in a wind tunnel. Textured Aero-stripes on the sleeves and legs are designed to reduce drag on the bike. That may matter most to racers chasing small gains, but the smooth, secure fit has a more immediate appeal: there is little loose fabric to flap about. The ultra-lighweight Payen fabric is designed to manage moisture and temperature, with mesh panels along the back, beside the front zip and down the legs for extra ventilation. Stretchy sleeve seams and carefully placed armholes aim to reduce rubbing as you change position between disciplines. There is also some postural support built into the suit, although the real test of that claim would be the final miles of a race. The full-length front zip gives you room to cool down, while a supportive belt around the waist provides storage for small essentials. Two stretchy rear pockets keep gels within reach. On the bike, a shaped, multi density pad offers cushioning without requiring separate cycling shorts; it uses graphene yarn with antibacterial properties. The close fit and premium price make this a suit to choose carefully. It is also more specialist than an occasional triathlete may need. However, for regular racing, the Stream brings you all the features you need to shave off those valuable seconds. The ventilation, accessible pockets and attention to movement are likely to matter just as much as its wind tunnel credentials when race day gets tough.

For more information on Compressport Stream Trisuit click here

The Compressport Stream Trisuit combines breathable fabric, practical nutrition storage and a close fit for racing, though its price demands serious use.

Pros

£‌260

Ultra lightweight at 209g Plenty of ventilation Close fit designed to reduce drag

Pockets and waist storage for race nutrition Padded seat for the cycling leg Stretchy seams designed to reduce rubbing Cons Expensive for occasional racing Close fit makes sizing especially important Padding may feel too minimal for some cyclists

KardiaMobile Most health gadgets want to integrate themselves into every part of your daily routine. The KardiaMobile is more useful when something feels off. Small enough to live in a pocket or bag, it lets you record a single lead ECG using your phone in around 30 seconds, giving you something concrete to look at rather than trying to remember exactly what your heart was doing an hour later. It is straightforward to use, simply open the Kardia app, place two fingers on the metal electrodes and stay still while it records. The app can then identify normal sinus rhythm, atrial fibrillation, bradycardia or tachycardia. You can save recordings and share them with a doctor, which is particularly useful if symptoms come and go and naturally disappear whenever you finally get an appointment. The device itself is tiny and there are no wires, sticky pads or chest straps involved. It also uses a replaceable battery, so there is another gadget you do not have to remember to charge. The standard KardiaMobile uses your phone's audio connection rather than Bluetooth and does not need Wi Fi to take a recording. You do not need a subscription to use the core ECG features. The optional KardiaCare membership adds more detailed rhythm detections, trends, reports and clinician reviews, but the basic device remains useful without paying every year. There are important limits. This is a single lead ECG rather than the fuller picture you would get from a hospital ECG, and AliveCor states that it does not check for heart attacks. It is also not recommended for people with pacemakers or ICDs. What makes KardiaMobile useful is not bells and whistles, but timing. When an odd flutter or racing heartbeat appears out of nowhere, you can capture it there and then and keep a record to show your doctor later.

A simple pocket sized ECG monitor that makes it easy to capture occasional heart rhythm changes and share useful recordings with your doctor. For more information on the KardiaMobile click here

£99

Pros Quick 30 second ECG recordings Small and easy to carry Simple two finger operation Detects several common rhythm patterns Recordings can be saved and shared No charging required Core features work without a subscription Recommended by leading cardiologists worldwide and used by the NHS Cons Only records a single lead ECG Does not detect heart attacks Not suitable for people with pacemakers or ICDs Extra analysis features require KardiaCare

Playmags 200 Piece Set Magnetic Tiles Racetrack We have a racetrack in our house that periodically gets gives the building a clear purpose, make a route, see how dragged out, takes forever to put together and then gets the cars handle it, then work out what needs changing. played with for about 30mins before it gets abandoned The cars have lights and each needs two AA batteries, for another toy. The problem is with a fixed racetrack is which are not included. It is worth having those ready that, once a child has learnt every bend, there is little left if this is a present, unless you fancy explaining that the to do but race the cars again. Playmags takes a different exciting part will have to wait until tomorrow. approach, the track is something children build for There is plenty of play here beyond racing. A younger themselves, pull apart and change whenever a better idea child might enjoy joining pieces and watching the cars comes along. travel around, while an older one can spend longer This 200 piece set is recommended for ages three and up, it planning routes, building upwards and solving the combines colourful magnetic tiles with track sections and inevitable collapses. With 200 pieces, two children should supports, so children can make more than a simple loop have enough to work on a layout together, though the on the floor. Curves, slopes and raised sections give them set will claim a fair amount of floor space once they get room to experiment with the layout, while signs add a little going. There are lots of other sets available to add expand detail to the finished scene. The magnetic connections on imagination and creation. make rebuilding easy, although an ambitious elevated track The appeal is the building as much as the race. If your may still need a patient pair of hands. The magnets are child enjoys changing the rules and redesigning their toys strong but will still collapse under an enthusiastic younger mid play, this set gives them plenty of scope to do exactly siblings’ hands. Two motorised cars are included, which that.

For more information on the Playmags 200 Piece Set Magnetic Tiles Racetrack click here

The Playmags Racetrack gives children plenty to build and rebuild, with two motorised cars adding a satisfying payoff to their track designs.

£74.99

Pros Plenty of pieces for varied track layouts Magnetic tiles are easy to rearrange Raised sections add more building options Two motorised cars included Building the track is part of the fun Cons AA batteries not included Large layouts take up floor space Elevated sections may need help to build

Pros Powerful 180 bar pressure

Cons Heavy at 18.8kg Expensive

Water cooled

Overkill for smaller

motor

gardens

4 in 1 Multi Jet

Takes up a fair

lance

amount of storage

Comfortable

space

trigger design

10 metre PremiumFlex hose Integrated hose reel

Useful onboard storage

Well suited to larger cleaning jobs

For more information on the Kärcher K7 Comfort Premium click here

£419.99

Kärcher K7 Comfort Premium

The Kärcher K7 Comfort Premium is very much the “right, let’s actually sort the patio out” end of the pressure washer market. With up to 180 bar of pressure and a water cooled motor, it is built for frequent, heavier jobs rather than the occasional rinse of a muddy bike. Kärcher rates it for cleaning around 60m² an hour, so large patios, walls, cars and garden furniture are all well within its comfort zone. It comes with the 4 in 1 Multi Jet lance, this means instead of swapping nozzles every five minutes, you simply twist the head to move between a rotary jet, high pressure flat jet, reduced pressure flat jet and detergent setting. It is a small thing, but it makes bigger cleaning jobs feel much less faffy. The Comfort!Hold trigger gun is another welcome touch. It is designed to reduce the pressure needed to keep the trigger pressed, which matters more than you might think when you have been cleaning your campervan after a particularly muddy weekend away. There is a 10 metre PremiumFlex hose on an integrated reel, Quick Connect fittings, onboard accessory storage and a telescopic handle. The 2Way!Wash system gives you two ways to apply detergent, while Kärcher also includes a litre of universal cleaner to get you started. At 18.8kg, this is not a lightweight machine, and the price puts it firmly in premium territory. It is also more pressure washer than many people need for a small garden or occasional car wash. But if you regularly tackle stubborn dirt, large outdoor areas or multiple cleaning jobs, the K7 Comfort Premium makes a lot of sense. It is powerful, thoughtfully designed and much nicer to use than a machine that simply wins by adding more pressure to every job.

A powerful, well designed pressure washer that makes light work of big outdoor jobs, though its size and price are equally substantial.

Affordable, comfortable and surprisingly capable, the K iwi Ears Belle delivers lively sound and useful detachable cables without making your wallet cry.

From $29.99

Pros Punchy, enjoyable sound Good vocal clarity Lightweight and comfortable Detachable cable Several cable options Six pairs of ear tips Premium looking design for the price Excellent value Cons No carry case included Soundstage isn't particularly wide Busy tracks can sound slightly crowded Wired only

Kiwi Ears Belle The Kiwi Ears Belle is proof that you don't need to spend silly money to get a decent pair of in-ear monitors. At around the £25 mark, these tiny wired earphones have no business sounding as good as they do. These little devices house a tuned 10mm Diamond Like Carbon dynamic driver, designed to deliver plenty of detail while keeping the sound lively rather than clinical. The tuning is warm with a decent bass, clear vocals and smooth treble, making them particularly enjoyable with pop, rock, EDM and anything where you want a bit of low end without turning everything into mush. They are lightweight, with each earpiece weighing only a few grams. The resin shells have CNC machined metal faceplates, giving them a considerably more expensive look than the price suggests. They sit securely in the ears and are comfortable enough for longer listening sessions, assuming you find the right tips. Six pairs of silicone tips in different sizes are included, so there’s a good chance of getting a decent seal. The detachable 2 pin cable lets you choose between a standard 3.5mm connection, 3.5mm with a microphone or USB C with a microphone, making the Belle rather more flexible than many budget wired earphones. Naturally, there are limits at this price. Soundstage and instrument separation cannot compete with much pricier IEMs, and there's no carry case included. Complex tracks can also become a little crowded when things get busy. Still, the Belle gets the important things right. They're comfortable, well made and genuinely enjoyable to listen to. For anyone curious about trying IEMs without emptying their bank account, these are an easy recommendation.

For more information on the Kiwi Ears Belle click here

Ocean Bottle

The Ocean Bottle Original 500ml is a good everyday bottle for anyone who wants something practical without lugging around a small water tank. Made using recycled stainless steel, it has double wall insulation to keep drinks cold for up to 18 hours or hot for up to six. The clever dual opening makes it easy to drink from, chuck in some ice or give it a proper clean, and it is completely leakproof and dishwasher safe. There is even an NFC chip in the base for tracking your impact through the Ocean Bottle app. Each purchase funds the collection of ocean bound plastic.

from

£35 For days when 500ml disappears before you have even reached lunchtime, the Ocean Bottle PEAK steps things up to a more generous 710ml. It is still slim enough to fit comfortably in most cup holders, while the 90% recycled stainless steel construction keeps things reassuringly sturdy. The insulated design is made for keeping drinks at the right temperature, and the bottle is dishwasher safe when you cannot be bothered with careful hand washing. An NFC chip connects it to the Ocean Bottle app, where you can track hydration and environmental impact. Every bottle also funds the collection of 1,000 plastic bottles in weight.

The Ocean Bottle Brew Flask is for people who take coffee out with them and would quite like it to stay inside the flask. The 350ml capacity is a sensible size for a morning brew, while the fully lockable 360 degree lid lets you drink from any side without hunting for the right opening. It is made using 90% recycled stainless steel and is completely leakproof, so throwing it into a work bag should not end in regret. The dual opening makes filling and cleaning straightforward, and the whole thing can go in the dishwasher. Like the bottles, each purchase helps fund ocean bound plastic collection. For more information on Ocean Bottle click here

Pantherella Laburnum

The Pantherella Laburnum is made from 70% Merino wool with 30% nylon for extra durability, it is soft, breathable and naturally good at regulating temperature. The fine gauge knit keeps things slim enough for smarter shoes, while the seamless toe helps avoid any annoying rubbing. Sitting at a standard calf length, the Laburnum comes in a huge choice of colours, from classic navy and black to much brighter shades. Comfortable, understated and easy to wear, it is little wonder this is one of Pantherella’s bestsellers. For more information on Pantherella Laburnum click here

£21

Pros Compact layout retains the number pad Smooth, factory lubricated mechanical switches Hot swappable switches for customisation Bright RGB lighting through the translucent housing 8,000Hz polling rate Sound dampening makes typing more pleasant Cons Wired only No dedicated volume dial or wrist rest Chunky profile may not suit everyone NGENUITY software could offer more control Touchscreen case adds extra bulk Not suitable for all levels of hearing loss

£119.99

HyperX Origins 2 1800 Not everyone has the luxury of a spacious gaming setup but that shouldn’t mean you have to sacrifice performance. The HyperX Origins 2 1800 offers a rather sensible solution, squeezing almost everything you'd expect from a fullsized keyboard into a more compact footprint. Its 1800 layout retains the number pad, arrow keys and essential functions while giving you back some precious desk space for coffee. The translucent housing lets the RGB lighting shine through beautifully, giving it plenty of personality without looking like too garish. Underneath the keys are HyperX's factory lubricated Linear Red mechanical switches, offering smooth, responsive keystrokes with a 1.8mm actuation point. They're rated for 80 million presses, so even the most enthusiastic button basher should struggle to wear them out. It is fully customisable with hot swappable sockets that support most three and five pin mechanical switches, while the housing itself can be replaced using eight screws. A silicone O ring mount, polycarbonate plate and removable silicone weight help dampen vibrations and reduce that hollow keyboard clatter. Adjustable feet provide different typing angles, although the chunky profile won't suit everyone. For competitive gaming, it offers an 8,000Hz polling rate, allowing the keyboard to report inputs to your PC up to 8,000 times per second. HyperX's NGENUITY software handles RGB customisation, key remapping and macros, with support for three profiles. At £119.99, the Origins 2 1800 isn't cheap, particularly for a wired keyboard. There's also no dedicated volume dial or wrist rest, and the software lacks some of the advanced adjustments found elsewhere. Still, the combination of compact practicality, satisfying mechanical switches and genuine customisation makes this a keyboard with plenty of appeal. It gives you room to move your mouse without making you sacrifice your number pad, which is a victory in itself.

The HyperX Origins 2 1800 saves desk space without losing the number pad, with satisfying switches, lively RGB lighting and welcome customisation.

For more information on the HyperX Origins 2 1800 click here

$259.99

Pros Premium materials and excellent craftsmanship High purity silver and copper conductors Attractive champagne gold finish Flexible, comfortable cable Shielding designed to reduce interference Multiple headphone connector options Two cable lengths available Cons Very expensive for a headphone cable Audible improvements aren't guaranteed 4.4mm balanced connection limits compatibility Some configurations are made to order

ddHiFi BC150G Spending more than £200 on a headphone cable might bonkers to some, especially in this day and age of easy access to media from ever device. Yet the ddHiFi BC150G is aimed squarely at audiophiles who have already invested in serious headphones and want a cable to match, they are looking for quality and willing to pay for it. Part of the Nyx Gold series, the BC150G certainly looks the part. Its champagne gold finish is paired with aluminium alloy fittings and genuine red sandalwood detailing, giving it a rather luxurious appearance. It's a refreshing change from the usual black rubber cables, although at this price, you'd expect something a little special. Underneath that handsome exterior is an elaborate conductor arrangement combining high purity 4N silver for the positive signal and 5N OCC copper for the negative. A separate silver-plated copper shielding layer is designed to reduce electromagnetic interference, while the floating shield construction helps prevent grounding issues with certain audio equipment. The symmetrical double strand construction and flexible SoftFlex PVC insulation help prevent the cable from becoming an expensive, tangled nightmare in your pocket. At approximately 65g for the 145cm version, it has some substance without being particularly bulky. The BC150G terminates in a 4.4mm balanced plug, with headphone connectors available for a wide range of models, including options for Sennheiser, Focal and Sony. You can also choose between 145cm and 200cm lengths, although some connector configurations are made to order. Of course, the big question is whether it sounds better. The sophisticated construction is intended to maintain clean signal transmission, but don't expect a cable to magically transform your headphones. Any audible improvement will depend on your existing equipment and whether your current cable has limitations. Ultimately, the BC150G is a beautifully considered accessory for someone who takes their listening setup seriously. It's expensive, undeniably indulgent and probably unnecessary for most people, but the craftsmanship and attention to detail are difficult to ignore.

A beautifully crafted headphone cable with premium materials, thoughtful shielding and luxurious styling, although its hefty price makes it strictly an audiophile indulgence. For more information on the ddHiFi BC150G click here

A stylish, capable portable speaker with balanced sound, useful connectivity and strong weather resistance, though battery life and codec support are fairly modest.

£119.99

Pros Strong 34W output Clear, balanced sound IP66 dust and water resistance Bluetooth 5.4 with multipoint USB C audio support Stereo pairing available Useful app sound modes Compact, attractive design Cons

Around nine hours of battery life is only average Limited to SBC Bluetooth codec No higher resolution wireless codec support Lighting will reduce battery life

Edifier ES60 The Edifier ES60 combines a minimalist design with vintage vibes and the durability needed for everyday use. The retro inspired styling, gold detailing and understated ambient lighting give it a stylish look, while an IP66 rating provides protection against dust and water. At around 190mm wide, it remains compact enough to move between rooms or take outside without being a hassle. Audio is delivered by two 22mm silk dome tweeters, an oval 70 x 40mm mid bass driver and a passive radiator. Together they deliver 34W of output, with a frequency response of 58Hz to 40kHz. The sound is full and balanced, with enough low end to give music some real weight while keeping vocals and higher frequencies clear and defined. For a speaker of its size, it also creates a pleasingly broad soundstage. Bluetooth 5.4 provides the wireless connection, with multipoint support allowing two devices to remain connected at the same time. Two ES60 speakers can also be paired for proper stereo playback experience. The USB C adds another option, supporting digital audio input from compatible devices as well as charging. The controls on the top panel are straightforward, while the Edifier ConneX app offers further customisation. Music, Movie, Gaming and Outdoor sound modes are available, alongside controls for the ambient lighting. A built-in microphone also allows the speaker to handle calls without reaching for your phone. Battery life reaches around nine hours with the lighting switched off, which is reasonable but not especially generous compared with some rivals. Codec support is limited to SBC too, so anyone looking for higher resolution Bluetooth formats may find it a little restrictive. The ES60 gets the important things right. It sounds rich, looks smart and offers enough durability and connectivity to work just as well on a desk as it does in the garden or by the campfire.

For more information on the Edifier ES60 click here

BLUNT KNIVES ARE RUINING BRITAIN'S SUNDAY ROASTS A word from our friends at Tormek One in four Brits (24 per cent) are struggling with Sunday dinner because of blunt knives, new research reveals. It not only makes carving, chopping and filleting harder and messier but potentially unsafe as well with 23 per cent admitting they have injured themselves using a less than sharp knife. A survey of 2,000 adults found 24 per cent of UK households sit down to a Sunday roast every week but blunt blades are turning the traditional meal into a recipe for disaster. Swedish knife sharpening specialists, Tormek, conducted the study as part of their Sharpen Up Your Sunday campaign. It found 29 per cent have never sharpened their knives. Samuel Stenhem, CEO of Tormek said: “With Sharpen Up Your Sunday, we're encouraging home cooks to make knife sharpening part of their weekly routine. "Blunt knives can be more dangerous than sharp ones, as they require greater force and are more likely to slip, turning simple kitchen tasks into a potential recipe for injury. Instead, a truly sharp knife makes chopping, slicing and cooking an absolute joy.” Richard Bertinet, chef, author and baking expert, added: “At the Bertinet Kitchen Cookery School, we use knives every day, so we know just how important it is to keep them sharp. Whether you're learning the basics or working at a professional level, every chef will tell you that a sharp knife gives you greater control and helps you get the most out of your cooking. If you've invested in good knives, it makes sense to keep them sharp.”

For more information on the TORMEK click here

ABOUT TORMEK Established in 1973, Tormek designs, engineers and builds world-class sharpening machines for professional carpenters, wood turners, hunters, professional chefs, restaurants and industrial kitchens as well as the professional sharpening businesses. Located in Lindesberg, a small town in the heart of Bergslagen, Sweden, production is carried out in close cooperation with selected suppliers using cutting edge manufacturing technology. The sleek, Scandinavian design of the Tormek T-1 Kitchen Knife Sharpener for the home comes fully assembled, featuring a diamond grinding wheel, composite honing wheel, patented angle guide which allows you to choose any angle between 8 - 22 degrees per side and a powder-coated zinc body in Carbon Black, Zinc Gray, Ash Green, Linen White and Swedish Red. The Tormek T-1 Kitchen Knife Sharpener comes with an eight year warranty(5+3), RRP £350.

SHARPENING ANGLE TIP A common angle for a Western kitchen knife is 30 degrees. Set the indicator to 15 degrees sharpening angle and this will result in a 30 degrees total angle on the knife. Japanese knives are sharpened with a slightly smaller angle of 20—25 degrees.

MEASUREMENTS Width 204 mm {8") Depth 196 mm (7 3é") Height 181 mm {7 1/8") KNIFE MEASUREMENTS The patented guide can handle knives with blades 12—60mm {0.5—2.4”) high and up to Smm {0.2”) thick, with unlimited length WEIGHT Incl. packaging 6.2 kg (13.7 lbs) Machine only 5.4 kg {11.9 lbs) GRINDING WHEEL DF-150 Conical Diamond Wheel Fine 150 • 18mm {5 7/8" • 5/8") Max 200 rpm HONING WHEEL PW-160 Conical Composite Honing Wheel Composite, ABS plastic 160 • 30mm (6 ‘é" • 13/16") HOUSING Precision-cast powder-coated zinc housing Bottom in impact-resistant plastic Handle in birch treated with hard wax oil MOTOR Single-phase, AC motor Input power: idle 60 W, max load 120 W 100-115 V/ 220-240 V, 50-60 Hz Maintenance-free Quiet running, 45 dB 10,000 operating hours CORD LENGTH 1.7 m

BOMBAZINE pendant

YELENA pendant

KEEGAN wall light

ARONA pendant

For stockists, please visit www.darlighting.co.uk or contact our team directly on: 01295 672 200 twitter.com/thereviewsmiths

instagram/the.review.smiths