Copy Trading vs Manual Trading: Which Strategy Works Best?

People wanting to trade in financial markets have various means of doing so. Some traders make their own decisions before placing a trade by studying the market, reading charts, etc. This method is called manual trading. Others prefer to follow skilled traders and automatically copy their trades. This is known as copy trading.

Understanding copy trading vs manual trading is a helpful tool for beginners to decide which approach is suitable for them. Some have more time to learn and analyze markets, while others seem to prefer a simpler way to start. Both methods might work great, but both have advantages and drawbacks depending on a trader’s experience and objectives.

What Is Copy Trading?

Many new traders might wonder what is copy trading when they are just getting into the trading game. Copy trading is a practice wherein you copy the trades of other experienced traders. When the expert trader opens a trade or closes a trade, the same action occurs on your account. This way, people just starting out can follow strategies used by more advanced investors.

Most modern trading platforms now offer copy trading functionality. These platforms enable users to view traders’ profiles, including their past performance, and select who they want to follow. Once connected, trades get copied without having to place them manually.

Because of its simplicity, copy trading for beginners became very popular. The reason is that it allows new traders to participate in markets even if they have only novice technical knowledge. According to a report by Finance Magnates, copy trading platforms now account for a significant share of new retail trading accounts worldwide.

Some brokers offer built-in social trading functionality that allows an investor to automatically copy professional traders. Platforms such as Exness explain how these systems operate and the features traders should look for before selecting a broker.

What Is Manual Trading?

Manual trading is when a trader makes all trading decisions independently. The trader lays out the charts, reads the news, and, after analyzing the market, decides whether to buy or sell. Unlike automated systems, each trade is placed by the person, and not by software or by copying another person.

In the event of manual trading, people use their strategies and research to inform their trading decisions. They may do research on price patterns, technical indicators, or market trends before making a trade. This way, the trading position can be under control at all times.

One of the main advantages of manual trading is the degree of flexibility. Traders will also be able to quickly respond to changes in the market and adapt their trading strategies accordingly if needed. This is one of the reasons why it is very much preferred by many experienced traders when comparing manual vs automated trading, as they can rely on their own skills and judgement.

Copy Trading vs Manual Trading: Differences

Feature Copy Trading Manual Trading
Trade Execution Trades copied automatically Trades placed manually
Skill Level Low technical knowledge needed Requires market analysis skills
Control Limited control over strategy Full control over decisions
Time Required Minimal monitoring Regular market monitoring

Understanding copy trading vs manual trading helps traders understand how these two methods are applied in the real market. Both methods enable people to trade in financial markets, but there are differences in how trading is conducted and managed. The primary technical differences lie in the levels of skill required, the amount of control the trader possesses, and the time required to monitor the trades.

Skill and Experience Required

Copy trading tends to be less experience-related. Traders choose an experienced investor on a platform, and the system automatically executes the same trades that the person made. Because of the already implemented strategy, beginners will be able to take part without in-depth market analysis.

Manual trading needs a bit more technical knowledge. Traders study charts, monitor market trends, and rely on strategies such as technical analysis and risk management when opening a trade.

Control Over Trades

Control is a huge difference between copy trading and manual trading. In the case of copy trading, the process of decision-making to trade depends on the strategy the trader has. Full control is provided in manual trading. Traders choose at what times and to what extent to trade and adjust their positions according to the market conditions.

Time Commitment

Copy trading needs less daily monitoring as the trading is done automatically. Manual trading involves manual market analysis. Around 45% of traders spend 1-2 hours a day trading, and 14% of them spend more than 6 hours every day watching markets and making trades.

Benefits of Copy Trading for Beginners

Many new traders start with copy trading for beginners because it is simple and does not require too much knowledge about the markets. Instead of allowing them to make each and every decision independently, traders who are just starting out may consider following traders who have some experience in the market. This helps them to learn how trading works, but without having the stress of making complex decisions.

More than 70% of beginner traders check out copy trading features in their first year of trading.

Benefits include:

  • Learning from experienced traders
  • Requires less technical knowledge
  • Saves time due to automatic copying of trades
  • Easy to start with low initial investment amounts

These features make copy trading appealing to persons who wish to enter the market without taking months to gain knowledge of the technical market strategies.

Advantages of Manual Trading

There is a dearth of automated tools, but even then, many traders prefer trading manually. One of the primary benefits of manual trading is the degree of control that is available to traders over their trading strategies and decisions. Instead of basing their actions on what another trader does, individuals can look at the market on their own and base their judgment and actions accordingly.

Manual trading also allows traders to develop better knowledge of the markets and can improve their decision-making skills in the long run.

Advantages include

  • Full control over trading strategy and trade execution
  • Better understanding of market trends & price action
  • Flexible decision-making depending on market changes
  • Long-term skills development through practicing and analysing

For the trader who wants to study charts and develop strategies, manual trading can be more independent.

What Type of Trading Is Right for You?

Choosing between copy trading and manual trading depends on your level of experience, as well as whether you have available time and interest in analyzing the markets. Both of these methods can work well, but they are appropriate for different types of traders.

Copy trading can be considered a good option for:

  • Beginners entering the trading Market
  • People who do not have time to analyze charts
  • Traders who have not yet learned the workings of markets

Manual trading may suit:

  • Traders who were experienced and knew the market
  • Individuals who love technical and fundamental analysis
  • Traders who want complete control of their decisions

Some traders even use a combination of the two. For instance, they could do copy trading and use manual trading as they are learning the market, and can perform easily.

Conclusion

There is no best way for all the traders. The question of copy trading vs manual trading is all about your experience and how much you want to invest in your trading and your trading objectives. Understanding the risks, practicing on demo accounts, and finding a strategy that works best for your learning style can help contribute to a more confident approach to trading.

 

 

Sky TV customers can enjoy a taste of Hayu’s most popular reality shows from today

Reality fans are in for a treat, with a selection of Hayu’s most talked-about shows now available to watch for Sky TV subscribers. Customers can enjoy select seasons of favourites including Below Deck and The Real Housewives of Beverly Hills straight from their homepage, on demand and included within their Sky subscription, giving a taste of what’s to come before the full launch of Hayu on Sky in July.
This update follows February’s announcement that Sky is bringing together Disney+, HBO Max, Netflix and Hayu into a single subscription, all in one place and integrated as part of the Sky TV experience. Giving existing Sky TV subscribers even more brilliant entertainment to watch, and available with Sky Ultimate TV from just €28 a month for new customers.
Binge-worthy telly from Hayu on Sky
Launching today, A Taste of Hayu features over 150 episodes from 10 of Hayu’s biggest franchises, all seamlessly integrated and ready to watch from the Sky TV homepage, so viewers can dive straight into the drama.
The curated selection includes hit shows like Below Deck Mediterranean, The Real Housewives of Beverly Hills, The Real Housewives of Salt Lake City and Vanderpump Rules, serving up everything from high-stakes yachting and glamorous lifestyles to unforgettable feuds and fan-favourite moments.
Sky Stream and Sky Glass customers with Sky Ultimate TV, Sky Q and Sky+ customers will have access to this, with select seasons available to watch on demand.
The full launch of Hayu on Sky will come in July, unlocking the entire Hayu catalogue for customers. Reality fans will be able to watch hundreds of additional series and catch new episodes of hit franchises the same day as they air in the US, all included within their Sky TV experience.
Eligible customers will be able to enjoy all this alongside fantastic Sky Originals and Exclusives including The Dyer’s Caravan Park, Under Salt Marsh, upcoming shows like The Miniature Wife (9th April) and the returning Sweetpea S2. As well as Netflix, Disney+, which joined the platform on 17th March, and HBO Max, launching on 26th March.

Rhombus Announces Recon, the First Autonomous Physical Security Solution

Rhombus, a leader in cloud-managed physical security, today announced Rhombus Recon, an autonomous physical security solution designed to extend physical security beyond the limits of fixed cameras.

Rhombus Recon solves the problem of what is happening outside the view of existing cameras. With Rhombus Recon, companies can autonomously or manually dispatch a robot to do a closer investigation or patrol of a particular event. Additional situational awareness is provided by the broader Rhombus platform of AI Cameras, Sensors, Access Control, and Alarm Monitoring which together, is the first solution of its kind.

Harnessing the power of advanced AI, Recon takes patrolling and investigations to new levels by allowing customers to take specific actions based on what it sees. For example, Recon can be dispatched to check how well stocked the shelves of a store are, or whether a bathroom is clean, or even if there is a potential intruder coming in the back door. When paired with Rhombus Insights, Recon can provide operational data across all aspects of an organization.

“With Rhombus Recon, we aim to give every organization the equivalent of an extra person that is available 24/7 to be an extra set of eyes and ears.” says Brandon Salzberg, CTO at Rhombus. “Leveraging AI and LLM’s, these robots can complete complex assignments, and we view them becoming an essential part of the operations of most companies.”

Examples of how Rhombus Recon can support operations include:
Proactive incident response
If a Rhombus camera detects a potential intruder, the system can dispatch a robot to investigate the area. The robot can approach the scene, stream live video to operators through the Rhombus Console, and trigger automated deterrents or escalation workflows through Rhombus Alarm Monitoring.

Automated inspections
Facilities teams can program a robot to follow scheduled routes through warehouses, manufacturing environments, or campuses. During patrols, the system can collect video evidence, perform safety checks, and generate alerts when anomalies are detected.

Mobile gap coverage
Large outdoor environments such as construction sites, logistics yards, and storage facilities often contain areas where installing fixed cameras is difficult or cost-prohibitive. Recon enables mobile patrols that continuously monitor these areas and stream footage back to the Rhombus platform, transforming previously unmonitored spaces into actively
monitored security zones.

How Rhombus Recon Extends Physical Security
• Mobile situational awareness – Uses data from Rhombus cameras, sensors, and access control systems to understand and navigate environments.
• AI-powered analysis – Applies advanced AI to detect threats, safety risks, or operational anomalies.
• Autonomous or on-demand dispatch – Robots can be triggered automatically by events or deployed manually by operators.
• Fleet management – Security teams can monitor and control multiple robots across locations through the Rhombus Console.
• Integrated response workflows – Recon connects with Rhombus Alarm Monitoring to enable escalation, live verification, and coordinated response.

The platform is designed to work with robotics manufacturers including Boston Dynamics, Unitree, and others allowing organizations to deploy autonomous security across a range of robotic form factors.

As organizations face increasing security demands and ongoing labor shortages, autonomous solutions like Rhombus Recon can help augment security teams by performing patrols, inspections, and investigations across large or complex environments.

Availability
Rhombus will demonstrate an early version of Rhombus Recon at ISC West in Las Vegas from March 23–27 (booth #L18). Organizations interested in learning more about autonomous mobile security or joining the early access program can visit
www.rhombus.com.

About Rhombus
Rhombus is an open, cloud-managed physical security platform that brings security cameras, access control, sensors, alarm monitoring, and integrations together under a single pane of glass. Thousands of organizations trust Rhombus to drive operational excellence, improve safety, and streamline workflows through a comprehensive suite of smart security solutions.

Rhombus is backed by Caden Capital, Cota Capital, Tru Arrow Partners, NightDragon, Bluestone Equity Partners, and Uncorrelated Ventures, and is on a mission to make organizations safer and more intelligent with simple, smart, and powerful
physical security solutions.

 

See our security camera reviews

CANYON RGB Wireless Keyboard Review (HKB-W11)

The HKB-W11 Wireless Keyboard is designed for those who want more from their setup. With dual connectivity, switch effortlessly between 2.4GHz wireless and two BT channels.

The Canyon HKB-W11 is a slim, full-sized wireless keyboard that punches significantly above its weight class, particularly for users who split their time between multiple devices. It positions itself as a budget-friendly alternative to premium low-profile decks like the Logitech MX Keys or the Microsoft Surface Keyboard.

The first thing you’ll notice is the ultra-slim profile. Despite its 19mm thickness, the ABS plastic body feels surprisingly rigid. It features a fixed ergonomic tilt—there are no adjustable feet, but the “wedge” shape provides a natural typing angle for most. I am no keyboard expert but for me typing is great the keys travel well with a 2mm distance and are tactile and could be a daily keyboard for me.

The HKB-W11 uses scissor-switch mechanisms, the same tech found in high-end laptops so for most this will be fine

The CANYON  HKB-W11 shines. It offers Triple Connectivity:

  1. 2.4GHz Wireless: Via a magnetic USB-A dongle (stored on the bottom).

  2. Dual Bluetooth Channels: Allowing you to pair with a tablet and a phone simultaneously.

Overall this is a great keyboard to use and looks good at any desk even if you are not the PC gamer type and with superb battery life and multiple connectivity options

Product Features:

  • Dual Connection: 2.4GHz & BT channel*2
  • 113 Buttons & 10 Million clicks
  • RGB backlight; 7 Backlight colours
  • Key Illumination
  • Compatibility: Win/MAC/ISO phone/android phone
  • Rechargeable: Built-In Li-Pol 1600 mAh Battery
  • Material: ABS
  • Charge cable: 1m (PVC)
  • Electronic life cycle: 10000000 Cycles
  • Maximum peak current capacity: 1600 mAh

BUY

Other Keyboard Reviews 

Video Review

Ring unveils ULTRASTART + AIR – a compact jump starter and inflator

Renowned auto accessory giant, Ring Automotive, has long been dedicated to providing the aftermarket with new and exciting products, and one of its first of 2026 is the ULTRASTART + AIR!

This new product is a powerful, multi‑functional emergency tool combining a jump starter and tyre inflator in one compact unit.

Similar to other products in its portfoilio, this new product from Ring is not limited to being just one piece of equipment, but multiple. The ULTRASTART + AIR is a jump starter, tyre inflator, as well as an LED light and powerbank to ensure the user has everything available to them in an emergency. It is also a compact item that can easily be stored in the glove compartment or anywhere in the vehicle if necessary.

For the jump starter aspect of the tool, its comes with two smart clamps that offer reverse polarity protection and also has a boost function for starting dead batteries. In addition, the ULTRASTART + AIR has integrated hose storage for the tyre inflator element and a storage bag that will hold all of the extra accessories it comes with.

In terms of the engines it can assist with, it’s suitable for up to a six litre petrol and three litre diesel engine. It has a clear display, is easy to use and has an ergonomic body, so is comfortable to hold.

Marketing Director, Henry Bisson, commented: “We are regularly conducting market research on what would be the most helpful to technicians as well as drivers, which is where the ULTRASTART + AIR has come from. Having one piece of equipment that can solve a variety of problems is convenient for all and so, very popular, which is why more of the tools we’re introducing to the market are multi functional.

“The ULTRASTART + AIR is a very powerful tool and due to its suitability for many vehicles, we anticipate this being one of our bestsellers.”

RRP: £100

Top 7 Data Visualization and Tableau Courses to Build Analytical Leadership Skills in 2026

According to a 2026 report by Mordor Intelligence, the Business Intelligence market adoption has hit 82%, yet a severe training gap remains. 

Research from BCG indicates that 70% of digital transformations fail due to poor data literacy and visualization. 

In this article, you will discover the top data visualization courses designed to bridge that gap and drive real analytical leadership.

How Have We Selected These Best Tableau & Power BI Training Courses?

  • Curriculum relevance to the 2026 data-driven corporate ecosystem.
  • Institutional prestige & the professional caliber of the certifying body.
  • Focus on analytical architecture (e.g., Power Query, DAX, AI Copilot integration) rather than mere data entry.
  • Flexibility of delivery modes suited for high-level executive schedules.
  • Direct applicability of outcomes to enterprise-scale problem-solving & financial modeling.

Overview: Best Tableau & Power BI Courses for 2026

# Program Provider Primary Focus Delivery Ideal For
1 Advanced Data Viz (Power BI) Great Learning Executive Dashboarding Online/Self-Paced Senior Leaders
2 Data Analysis & Viz (Power BI) Coursera (MS) Technical Modeling Online/Self-Paced Career Switchers
3 Data Visualization in Power BI DataCamp Interactive Exploration In-Browser Hands-on Managers
4 Tableau Essentials Great Learning Visual Storytelling Online/Self-Paced Technical VPs
5 Power BI (PL-300) ONLC Certification & Governance Live Virtual Compliance Officers
6 Power BI for Data Analysis Data for Dev Humanitarian Impact Online Workshop Non-Profit Leaders
7 Power BI Nanodegree Udacity Project-Based Mastery Online/Mentored C-Suite Finance

Best Power BI Training and Tableau Courses in 2026

1. Advanced Data Visualization using Power BI — Great Learning

This Power BI Training course by Great Learning is designed for professionals who need to go beyond basic reporting to build robust, executive-level data pipelines. 

 

It provides an in-depth dive into hierarchical charts, clustering, and complex What-If analyses. 

 

Enrolling in this GLA Pro+, learners gain access to 500+ courses, AI-powered career tools, guided projects, and recognized certifications from Microsoft and AWS to strengthen their career prospects.

 By the end of this course, leaders can extract actionable insights from real-world business scenarios.

 

  • Delivery & Duration: Online, 11 hours, self-paced with 1 major guided project (FIFA Player Analysis).
  • Credentials: Certificate of completion (Great Learning and Microsoft recognized).
  • Instructional Quality & Design: Faculty-led video modules featuring enterprise case studies and interactive labs.
  • Support: 24-hour AI assistance, AI resume builder, and personalized mock interviews.

 

Key Outcomes / Strengths:

  • Architect data modeling workflows utilizing advanced visualizations and cross-filtering.
  • Formulate dynamic parameters to execute high-stakes What-If scenario analyses.
  • Synthesize complex datasets through clustering to identify market outliers.
  • Evaluate operational bottlenecks through interactive dashboards to drive profitability.

2. Data Analysis and Visualization with Power BI — Coursera

Developed directly by Microsoft, this program focuses on the technical end-to-end process of preparing and modeling data. 

 

It is the gold standard for those seeking a software-authorized path to the PL-300 certification. 

 

The curriculum emphasizes data cleaning with Power Query and the implementation of scalable relational models.

 

  • Delivery & Duration: Online, flexible schedule; approximately 30 hours of instructional material.
  • Credentials: Shareable Professional Certificate from Microsoft and Coursera.
  • Instructional Quality & Design: Video lectures from Microsoft experts combined with hands-on labs.
  • Support: Peer discussion forums and automated grading with instant technical feedback.

 

Key Outcomes / Strengths:

  • Deconstruct enterprise databases into functional datasets using Power Query.
  • Implement robust dimensional data models using star schemas for reporting accuracy.
  • Translate business requirements into clear visual narratives using advanced features.
  • Apply best practices in data governance within the Power BI Service environment.

3. Data Visualization in Power BI — DataCamp

This interactive course serves as a strategic entry point for managers who value efficiency.

 

 It utilizes an in-browser sandbox to teach the essentials of data visualization software, requiring no local installation. 

 

The focus is on rapid drag-and-drop dashboarding and immediate data exploration.

 

  • Delivery & Duration: Online interactive platform; 6 hours of modular, skill-focused learning.
  • Credentials: Statement of Accomplishment upon track completion.
  • Instructional Quality & Design: 60 interactive exercises offering immediate coding and design feedback.
  • Support: Community-led help center and downloadable coding cheatsheets.

 

Key Outcomes / Strengths:

  • Navigate the Power BI interface to connect to local and cloud-based datasets.
  • Construct foundational visualizations, including interactive bar charts and geographic maps.
  • Evaluate sorting and filtering techniques to drill down into specific data points.
  • Implement basic DAX measures to calculate essential performance indicators.

4. Tableau Data Visualization Essentials — Great Learning

This Tableau course by Great Learning helps professionals move past spreadsheets to build robust, executive-level data stories. 

 

It provides an in-depth dive into visual analytics, data structuring, and parameterized reporting. The focus is on “visual logic,” ensuring that dashboards solve specific business problems rather than just presenting raw numbers.

 

Enrolling in this GLA Pro+, learners gain access to 500+ courses, AI-powered career tools, guided projects, and recognized certifications from Microsoft and AWS to strengthen their career prospects.

  • Delivery & Duration: Online, 8 hours of video content with 1 major guided project.
  • Credentials: Verified Certificate of Completion in Tableau.
  • Instructional Quality & Design: Faculty-led modules focusing on storytelling and dashboard blueprinting.
  • Support: Access to a network of 5 million+ learners and dedicated AI mentorship.

 

Key Outcomes / Strengths:

  • Architect dynamic dashboards utilizing heat maps, tree maps, and Pareto charts.
  • Formulate complex calculations and parameters to allow end-user interaction.
  • Synthesize clear data-driven stories using Tableau’s unique storyboarding features.
  • Apply data blending techniques to merge disparate sources into a unified visual truth.

5. Microsoft Power BI Data Analyst (PL-300) — ONLC

For professionals focused on corporate compliance and official standards, this program offers an exam-aligned curriculum. 

 

It emphasizes the governance and administrative aspects of a Power BI deployment. It is specifically tailored for those who will oversee an organization’s entire BI infrastructure and security protocols.

 

  • Delivery & Duration: Live virtual classes (4 days) or self-paced on-demand options.
  • Credentials: Prepares students for the Microsoft PL-300 certification exam.
  • Instructional Quality & Design: Instructor-led labs that replicate real-world enterprise IT environments.
  • Support: Direct interaction with certified instructors and post-training resources.

 

Key Outcomes / Strengths:

  • Architect secure data environments by applying Role Level Security (RLS).
  • Manage the full lifecycle of a report from initial query to final publication.
  • Optimize report performance by identifying bottlenecks in the data model.
  • Standardize metric definitions across the organization using shared datasets.

6. Power BI for Data Analysis Workshop — Data for Dev

This specialized workshop is ideal for leaders in the non-profit sector. It frames Power BI within the context of monitoring, evaluation, and impact reporting. 

 

The course focuses on using data to tell a compelling story to donors and stakeholders, using humanitarian-specific datasets.

 

  • Delivery & Duration: Online workshop; 10 hours of intensive, project-focused training.
  • Credentials: Certificate of Participation in Data Analysis for Development.
  • Instructional Quality & Design: Case-study driven learning using real humanitarian datasets.
  • Support: Access to a peer community of development professionals.

 

Key Outcomes / Strengths:

  • Build specialized impact dashboards that track project indicators and donor requirements.
  • Automate the cleaning of multi-source field data for immediate visual analysis.
  • Formulate interactive maps to visualize project reach and resource distribution.
  • Cultivate transparent data environments that facilitate trust with global stakeholders.

7. Data Analysis and Visualization with Power BI — Udacity

The Udacity Nanodegree offers an intensive, real-world analytical blueprint for professionals seeking mastery. 

 

It moves from basic navigation to complex DAX iterators and time-intelligence functions. It is the most comprehensive option for those seeking a deep career pivot into professional data engineering or C-suite analytics.

 

  • Delivery & Duration: Online; approximately 4 months at 10 hours per week; mentored.
  • Credentials: Professional Nanodegree Certificate.
  • Instructional Quality & Design: Project-centric curriculum reviewed by human experts for industry-grade quality.
  • Support: Technical mentor support, career coaching, and portfolio reviews.

 

Key Outcomes / Strengths:

  • Synthesize advanced relational data models (Star and Snowflake schemas).
  • Build dynamic time-intelligence tools and apply complex DAX measures.
  • Design custom scenario analyses utilizing advanced conditional formatting.
  • Execute professional-grade data storytelling that bridges the gap for C-suite decisions.

Conclusion

In 2026, the distinction between a “manager” and a “data analyst” is rapidly disappearing. The ability to command data visualization tools at an advanced level is no longer just about generating simple charts; it is about engineering the architecture of business intelligence. 

 

Selecting the right online free courses with certificate today is the most significant step toward mastering data visualization and analytical leadership in 2026.

 

FUJIFILM announces its instax mini 13 instant camera

FUJIFILM Europe GmbH, Imaging Solutions Division, has announced the introduction of its instax mini 13™ instant camera (mini 13). Following in the footsteps of the popular instax mini 12™ instant camera launched in 2023, mini 13 brings a fun, playful new look and feel with its soft, sculpted shape and a metallic silver logo that accents the front of the camera.

New for mini 13 is the introduction of a self-timer, with options for 2 or 10 seconds, giving the photographer the opportunity to be in the shot themselves with their subjects, or for easy hands-free selfies (with the help of the included wedge-shaped angle adjustment accessory). The mini 13’s main features also include a Close-Up Mode, Selfie Mirror, and Auto Exposure capabilities, as well as the Parallax Correction feature, in which the camera’s viewfinder aligns with the lens when using Close-Up Mode, minimizing object shifts to produce a centered photo. The mini 13 also features Automatic Flash Control, which optimizes image quality in bright or low light situations. The lens structure is designed to provide intuitive steps both for powering the camera on/off and for accessing the popular Close-Up Mode with a simple twist of the lens.

 

“Our instax™ mini line of mini instant cameras, smartphone printers, and film represents not only an incredible value for our users, but in many cases, it’s a user’s first foray into analog photography,” said Shin Udono, Senior Vice President, Imaging Solutions, FUJIFILM Europe. “The mini 13 is a perfect fit because experimenting with instant photography – trying out new lighting, poses, or scenes (especially by using the new self-timer feature), are all fantastic ways to express oneself artistically and be a part of your art. We’re looking forward to seeing what our community creates with the mini 13!”  

 

instax UP!™ Smartphone App Update Announced

Along with the introduction of mini 13, the free, downloadable instax™ UP! smartphone app is debuting new and enhanced features. This app is designed for instax™ users to digitally scan, import, organize, and store their photos in one place, regardless of which instax™ instant film, camera or printer product they use. The updated version brings increased image scanning precision by integrating the use of AI. The overall learning capability of the app has been greatly enhanced so that it can recognize images versus backgrounds or other extraneous content, resulting in cleaner, more precise scans. 

New Film Variety Introduced

Pastel Galaxy, the new instax™ mini instant film, will be introduced along with mini 13, featuring a fun cosmic theme complete with sparkly, glossy embellishments, and soothing colors to add a cool vibe to a user’s instax™ photos. 

Colors, Pricing, and Availability

Fujifilm’s instax mini 13™ instant camera will be available in Dreamy Purple, Frost Blue, Candy Pink, Lagoon Green, and Clay White. It will be available to purchase at Fujifilm retailers nationwide from 25th June 2026 at a Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price of €90.00 (inc. VAT). The instax™ mini Pastel Galaxy film will also be available to purchase from 25th June 2026 at a Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price of €11.50 (inc. VAT). 

For more information on instax, please visit www.instax.ie

 

See our instax reviews

 

 

Edifier ES20 Portable Bluetooth Speaker Review

The Edifier ES20 is a compact portable Bluetooth speaker that can deliver 6W (RMS) of dynamic sound with punchy bass, thanks to the features a Φ43mm full-range driver with neodymium magnets and a Φ55mm passive bass radiator, powered by a high-efficiency Class-D amplifier. With an IP67 dust and water resistance rating, it’s built for both indoor and outdoor use. Enjoy up to 15 hours of continuous playback, Bluetooth 5.4 with stereo pairing and multi-point connection, and clear calls via the built-in high-sensitivity microphone. Ambient lighting effects and Edifier ConneX app support add a personalized, connected experience.

Having tested the bigger model which is the ES60 some weeks ago I had high expectations and as always Edifier do not dissapoint considering the size of this speaker, not only does it have good looks it has great sound and also sports lighitng effects to suit any mood.

Also on board is the Edifier ConneX app which allows you to customise things even more making it a more vibrant speaker and allows you to cahnge the EQ the light effects and volume and is a simple UI and App to use on this speaker making it easy to get the desired effects.

The sound is excellent for its size as you will see in the video review down below and we also go through the app so you are aware of what is going on it is simple.

Overall this speaker looks great and sounds great ansd ideal for any home or office or your bedside locker giving you a punchy sound and will easily fill a room with good tunes.

Edifier ConneX App

 

  • DYNAMIC 6W RMS SOUND: 43 mm full-range driver and 55 mm passive bass radiator powered by a Class-D amp deliver punchy bass and clear highs for rich audio
  • SEAMLESS BLUETOOTH V5.4: Multi-point pairing lets you connect two devices simultaneously or sync two ES20 speakers for immersive stereo sound
  • LONG-LASTING PLAYTIME: High-capacity battery delivers up to 15 hours of continuous playback and USB-C fast charging restores full power in no time
  • DURABLE COMPACT DESIGN: Fully dustproof and waterproof for reliable outdoor performance, with included strap for secure, on-the-go listening
  • MOOD-SETTING AMBIENT LIGHTING: Five built-in effects enhance any setting from cozy indoor gatherings to backyard outdoor parties, adjustable via top controls or the app
  • INTUITIVE CONTROLS & APP CUSTOMIZATION: Use top buttons or EDIFIER ConneX app for playback control, volume, lighting and sound mode customisation

BUY

Other Edifier Reviews

Video Review

Mangoal Front and Rear DashCam (OEM MG-006C-1BA) Review

The Mangoal OEM MG-006C-1BA is a dual dashcam kit featuring front 4K and rear Full HD cameras, powered via your vehicle’s OBD port rather than the traditional cigarette-lighter cable. The unit comes with a 128GB microSD card, adhesive mounting, and uses the SkyCamm mobile app (iOS/Android) for setup, live view, and playback.

Mangoal, founded in 2013, specialises in OEM dash cams and wireless chargers compatible with over 15+ global car brands and 1,000+ models. Their devices hold CE, RoHS, and FCC certifications.

Installation & App (SkyCamm)

The installation process was more straightforward than expected. Using the OBD connector eliminates the need to hardwire into the fuse box or battery. Cables tucked away cleanly, creating a professional, near-invisible finish — a big plus over suction-cup models.

⚠️ Tip: Always check your vehicle model before purchasing the OBD cable — some cars (e.g., Mazda 6) may require specific connectors.

The SkyCamm app connects via Wi-Fi (not your home network). It’s user-friendly, offering live viewing, video downloads, and configuration for recording resolution, loop duration, and voice alerts. Tutorials show car-specific installation steps, making the setup accessible even for first-time installers.

Camera Quality & Footage Analysis

Testing covered day and night recording on an Android phone (downloaded footage), and viewed on a Windows laptop, and a 55-inch 4K television.
 The front camera produced sharp, true-4K imagery (3840 × 2160 px)

Camera Resolution (H × V) Megapixels Common Name Notes Average File Size (1 min) 128 GB Storage
Front 4K UHD 3840 × 2160 8.3 Ultra HD (4K) Manufacturer spec confirmed 130 MB (TechBuzz Ireland test result) ≈ 16.8 hours
Front + Rear – – Dual recording Combined total 188 MB (TechBuzz Ireland test result) ≈ 11.6 hours

Visual results:

  • Daytime: Excellent sharpness and licence-plate legibility even at distance.
  • Night: Clear and well-balanced exposure, maintaining visibility in low light.
  • Playback: Crisp and stable across devices, minimal compression artefacts.
  • Storage: Efficient loop recording; G-sensor reliably locks collision footage.

Overall, the footage quality outperforms many mid-range dash cams, particularly for the 4K front lens.

 Strengths

  • True 4K front camera delivers crisp, high-detail footage.
  • Clean, wire-free installation using OBD power.
  • Free SkyCamm app is intuitive and feature-rich.
  • 128 GB card included (a welcome bonus).
  • Dual-channel continuous recording with event lock.

Limitations

  • Rear camera records at Full HD, not the advertised 2K.
  • 1-year warranty feels short for the price bracket.
  • Adhesive mount makes repositioning difficult once fixed.

Verdict

The Mangoal MG-006C-1BA dash cam kit stands out for its 4K front recording, discreet OBD installation, and simple app control. While the rear camera isn’t true 2K and the warranty is modest, the overall package offers excellent visual quality and seamless installation.

Based on TechBuzz Ireland’s real-world testing, a 128GB card provides around 11 hours of dual-camera footage before automatically overwriting older files — typical behaviour for continuous loop recording. This is ideal for drivers seeking a permanent, tidy setup with reliable 4K recording.

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