Techwise Corner

The GTR9 Pro is the sort of mini PC that makes you question whether a desktop computer really needs to be big. Despite its compact footprint, it packs an unusually ambitious specification, combining AMD’s Ryzen AI Max+ 395 processor with 128GB of LPDDR5X memory and a 2TB NVMe SSD. On paper, it is seriously capable; in everyday use, it largely lives up to the promise. Design-wise, the GTR9 Pro strikes a sensible balance between understated and distinctive. It looks more like a premium piece of desktop hardware than an oversized router, while its small form factor makes it easy to position on a desk without taking over valuable space. Connectivity is another major strength. Dual LAN ports, including 10GbE, Wi-Fi 7, Bluetooth 5.4 and USB4 give it plenty of flexibility for modern peripherals and fast networking. Performance is where this machine really earns its keep. The 16-core, 32-thread Ryzen AI Max+ 395 handles demanding multitasking with ease, whether that means running numerous appl...

The ASUS ROG XREAL R1-N Gaming AR Glasses take a refreshingly different approach to portable gaming. Rather than carrying around a bulky monitor or settling for a small laptop display, these glasses create a personal screen that feels surprisingly immersive. They are clearly designed with gamers in mind, but the appeal extends to anyone who values a more private and flexible viewing experience. The Micro-OLED Full HD display is the real highlight. Images look crisp, detailed and vibrant, with the technology helping games and video content feel much more engaging than you might expect from such a compact device. Text remains reasonably clear, while darker scenes benefit from the strong contrast you would expect from an OLED panel. The large virtual viewing experience is particularly enjoyable for games, films and general media consumption. Design-wise, the R1-N keeps things relatively streamlined for gaming glasses. They look more like modern eyewear than traditional gaming hardware, wh...

The PlayStation VR2 in black is an impressive step into virtual reality, combining a sleek, understated design with the sort of immersive experience that makes VR feel considerably more natural. It looks distinctly PlayStation without being overly flashy, and the headset feels well constructed while remaining comfortable enough for longer gaming sessions. One of its biggest strengths is the display. The OLED panels deliver rich colours, deep blacks and excellent contrast, while the high resolution keeps games looking sharp and detailed. Eye tracking is another particularly clever feature, making menu navigation more intuitive and allowing compatible games to use eye-based controls. The headset’s inside-out tracking also means there is no need for external cameras or complicated room sensors, which makes getting started refreshingly straightforward. The Sense controllers deserve plenty of credit too. They feel comfortable in the hands and offer precise tracking, adaptive triggers and co...

 The Valve Index headset and controllers remain an impressive VR package, particularly for anyone who values immersion and precise interaction. Although the hardware is no longer the newest option on the market, it still feels thoughtfully designed and remarkably capable. The headset has a solid, premium feel without becoming excessively bulky. Its adjustable lenses, comfortable head strap and useful physical controls make it easy to find a good fit, while the wide field of view helps create a more natural sense of presence. The display is sharp and responsive, and the high refresh-rate options make movement feel exceptionally smooth. Audio is another highlight: the built-in speakers deliver surprisingly rich sound while sitting away from the ears, which is both comfortable and effective. The Index controllers are arguably the most distinctive part of the package. Their finger-tracking system allows you to open your hand, point and interact with virtual objects in a way that feels ...

The HP ZBook Studio 16 G9 strikes a convincing balance between workstation capability and everyday usability. Designed for professionals who need serious performance without carrying around a bulky desktop replacement, it combines a clean, understated design with hardware that is well suited to demanding creative and technical workloads. The 16-inch FHD+ display gives you plenty of working space, while the relatively restrained design makes the ZBook feel more like a premium laptop than a traditional workstation. Build quality is solid, with a reassuring sense of durability that should suit users who regularly move between home, office and client sites. The keyboard is comfortable for longer sessions, and the overall layout feels practical rather than gimmicky. Performance is where this ZBook really earns its workstation credentials. The Intel Core i7-12800H provides ample processing power for multitasking, development work, photo editing and other demanding applications. Paired with 3...

 The Bose Ultra Open Earbuds take a refreshingly different approach to wireless listening. Rather than sealing your ears, they sit comfortably alongside them, using Bose’s OpenAudio technology to deliver sound while keeping you aware of what is happening around you. It is a design that feels particularly well suited to everyday use, whether you are out walking, working at your desk or simply want music without feeling cut off from the room. The standout feature is undoubtedly the open-ear design. The earbuds feel secure without creating the plugged-in sensation associated with conventional in-ear models, and there is no need to keep adjusting them once they are positioned properly. Sound quality is impressively spacious, with a clear, enjoyable presentation that gives vocals and instruments plenty of room. Bose’s Immersive Audio adds another layer of depth, although its appeal will depend on whether you prefer a more natural or enveloping listening experience. The trade-off is priv...