SteelSeries launches QcK Performance series mousepads

SteelSeries, the original esports brand that fuses gaming and culture, today unveiled the latest evolution of its critically acclaimed QcK mousepad line, the QcK Performance Series. The new series is the first set of mousepads to specifically cater to diverse gamer play styles with three distinct mouse pad surfaces: Speed, Control, and Balance, available in Large and Extra-Large sizes. 

From actuation points in keyboards to mouse side buttons to personalized audio profiles in headsets, players want and need precision, personalization, and customization in their gaming gear. But the lonely mousepad has all but been forgotten or neglected when it comes to pure performance and playstyle for over 20 years. Essentially, there has been a barrier that SteelSeries is set to remove… Enter the QcK Performance Series mousepads. 

For over 20 years, SteelSeries has been the worldwide leader in mousepads for esports pros and gamers – from the ICEMAT in 2001 to the OG QcK in 2004. Since its introduction in 2004, the award-winning QcK line of mousepads has been celebrated globally, becoming a staple for gamers and professional esports players. In fact, Pros have won more prize money with SteelSeries than with any other brand.

Building on the legacy of one of the world’s most popular mouse pads, the QcK Performance Series joins the family of renowned mouse pads including the QcK, QcK Heavy, and QcK Prism. The innovative new Performance Series has been professionally engineered with different play styles in mind, tailored not only for longevity but to enhance player performance in-game. From the ultra-smooth glide of the ‘Speed’ pad for lightning-fast moves to the expertly tuned friction of the ‘Control’ pad for pinpoint accuracy, and the perfect blend of speed and stopping power in the ‘Balance’ pad, the QcK Performance Series offers a mousepad for every gamer.

The QcK Performance Series is the culmination of years of research and collaboration with professional gamers, engineers, and designers. They feature a 3.5mm base with neoprene foam providing unbeatable stability with a non-slip grip and the perfect balance of comfort and stability, while the low-profile stitched edges ensure durability for those long gaming sessions for years to come.

In competitive gaming, victory hinges on speed and precision, and a mousepad plays a crucial role in achieving this. While gamers often customize their mouse and headset audio profiles to suit their playstyle, the importance of the right surface is at times overlooked. The QcK Performance Series addresses this by offering a selection of surfaces tailored to complement the unique gaming style of players.

The QcK Performance | Speed

  • Crafted for gamers who thrive on fast-paced action with an unparalleled, frictionless glide, letting gamers focus purely on fast response reactions. 
  • The ultra-smooth surface ensures rapid, effortless movement, delivering the split-second responsiveness essential in high-speed gameplay.
  • Features ultra-low dynamic friction with an interwoven fabric design for smooth, consistent glide in every direction.

The QcK Performance | Balance 

  • The perfect blend of Speed and Control, combining the swift glide of a speed pad, paired with the precision stopping power of a control pad. 
  • The soft, finely woven texture offers a familiar feel, ideal for those seeking the best of both worlds.
  • High stitch count and a tight weave provide a familiar QcK feel that fans are accustomed to, blending swift glide and stopping power.

The QcK Performance | Control

  • Tailored for gamers who prioritize precision, offering pinpoint accuracy and exceptional stopping power. 
  • The micro-textured surface is expertly engineered with just the right amount of drag, allowing to lock onto a target with razor-sharp aim and unwavering control​. 
  • High-density stitch pattern adds just the right amount of drag for granular movements, ideal for deliberate movement patterns above all else.
  • This mousepad has been crafted for a unique tribe of hardcore gamers who prioritize control over comfort. 

Available at SteelSeries.com and retailers around the world, the QcK Performance Series are available for the following MSRPs:

 

  • QcK Performance Series (L) – US $39.99 | EMEA €44.99| UK £39.99 | APAC $44.99
  • QcK Performance Series (XL) – US $49.99 | EMEA €54.99 | UK £44.99 | APAC $54.99

 

QcK Performance Series fun fact: Three members of the FaZe Rainbow Six team used the new QcKPs to take home the Championship and $1M in prize money at the Rainbow Six Invitational 2025 on February 16, 2025.

  • Jaime ‘Cyber’ Ramos (Entry Fragger, 26, Brazil) | Six Invitational 2025 Champion| QcK Performance Balance Mousepad
      • Cyber is the first one in, clearing angles and landing headshots. He chose the QcK Performance ‘Balance’ surface for the perfect blend of speed and stopping power—giving him total confidence in every flick and entry duel.
      • As the anchor of the squad, soulz1 needs pinpoint precision and rock-solid consistency. The QcK Performance ‘Control’ surface gave him the stability to lock down sites, hold angles, and clutch when it mattered most.
    • Handyy might be the newest member of FaZe Clan, but his fast reflexes and fearless playstyle made him a key part of the win. The QcK Performance ‘Balance’ surface let him react instantly without over- or under-shooting his shots.

 

SteelSeries QcK Performance Mousepads:  This is precision made personal. 

Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra Review

The Samsung Galaxy S25 Ultra is the latest flagship on off but seen as an iterative upgrade from last years model which to be fair is a common trend amongst smartphone manufacturers and playing it safe, as the saying goes if it aint broke dont fix it.

Having had most the the flagship range over the years Samsung did give some small changes to the phone but you would find hard to distinguish between the last few models from the rear if you are not into your gadgets and the most notable one was the sharp edges ditched it is lighter and has a flat front display which is all good.

OK so it feels better in the hand before but if you have a case no different than any other previous behemoth phone which is good but this time around it looks and feels better. We done a walkthrough of the device here so you can have a better look at the UI and features

AI is the core here and I think people now are getting fed up with the AI terminology being used on a daily basis this is of course for some and not for others and even for me I am fed up hearing about it day in and day out however it is useful once implemented correctly and now all phone makers have their own interpretation of it and most of this we have already seen with Google who may stop Samsung in their tracks.

What are the differences between this year and last years models you might as well here we go.

S25 Ultra weighs in at 218g vs the 24s 232g

The Screen 6.9 vs 6.8 on last years

Main Camera is again 200mp ultrawide is 12mp over last years 50mp the zoom is better this time around being sharper in detail.

In video we have 4K60-24-30. 8K and 4K120 on the S25 on ultra wide while last years maxed out at 4K120

Both have the same 5000mAh battery this time the Spen has no bluetooth which is an odd omission for those who used it, there is a novelty factor to it I hardly used but did come in handy at times I will add and I am sure more productive people may miss this and for me did not use it as much as I would like too but it is great to have the functionality of it still present minus the bluetooth.

When it comes to being a workhorse it is I really liked the NOW briefing this is handy and easy to get the feel of and use to which I think many will enjoy over time as it gets to know you.

As one who used their phone all day long for blogging docs videos social and email and all heavy this was a breeze for me on the S25 Ultra and rightly so this is what it is for and it worked well with no issues no lag nor and shutdowns during the test period.

For camera and video again worked really well better than last years only slightly but you can be the judge of the samples below, yes we actually went out took photos and video day and night so you can see.

 

<a href=”https://youtu.be/PQaJjwHN7Kc?si=gz6kf8vDriuGktp3″>Images and Video Day and Night</a>

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Overall for me the S25 Ultra is again a great smartphone to have but I have been asked if it is worth the upgrade which most of it is software based and will come to other devices in their portfolio so for me if you want the latest and greatest well yes of course if you have last years and sat on the fence and in a two year contract for example with the S24 I would wait until next upgrade is due. There is great features on the S25 Ultra and some already borrowed from Pixel devices which I use daily and it really comes down then to brand loyalists here as to what they want or might already have elsewhere but either way you cant loose on said devices or the S25 Ultra.

Read more on the S25 Ultra <a href=”https://techbuzzireland.com/2025/01/22/samsung-galaxy-s25-ultra-galaxy-s25-and-galaxy-s25-true-ai-companions/”>here</a&gt;

<a href=”https://techbuzzireland.com/?s=S25+ultra+case+review”>S25 Ultra case reviews</a>

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myFirst Fone R2 4G eSIM Video Call Kids Smart Watch First Look

The myFirst Fone R2 4G eSIM Video Call Kids Smart Watch is one of three new products from the company now on sale in Ireland and for the better, typical kids smartwatches that ten to look like toys and out of the box this one does not and even looks great on the box.

Now this part is always left last from tech reviewers but not here you will need to pay a monthly fee but the first month is free so here you can decide if it is worth it or not and it will cost 9.99 a month thereafter. When you look at the way kids are today on phones it leaves a lot to be desired of the parents that give them a phone this is a better solution.

Today we take a quick first look at this and I am already impressed with its looks and design and any questions you have drop feel free to ask.

Features

  • Ultimate all-in-one wearable smartwatch for kids: The myFirst Fone R2 combines the functionalities of a phone, GPS tracker, music player, camera, clock, and fitness tracker into one convenient device.
  • Designed specifically for kids aged 5 to 12: The myFirst Fone R2 is packed with kid-friendly features and a durable design that can withstand the active lifestyles of young children.
  • Prioritizing Safety and Connection: Full compatibility with the newest FoneOS and the myFirst Circle app empowers parents with the ability to manage their child’s device and create a safe digital environment.
  • Stay connected anywhere, anytime: Video chat with loved ones on the go thanks to the built-in eSIM. With eSIM, switching carriers and plans is a breeze, whether you’re traveling abroad or looking for more flexibility. We offer eSIM service in 85+ countries (and expanding!), with basic plans starting at just $5/month. Plus, your first month is free!
  • Forget unreliable tracking! Smart Location Tracking uses advanced sensors and Wi-Fi signals to precisely follow your child’s movements. Combined with Smart Location Classification, our app provides insightful details about your child’s day. Imagine knowing they’re safely playing on the seventh floor, or visiting a friend on the fifteenth. Smart Location Tracking offers peace of mind for parents on the go.

 

 

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Best Strategies for Handling Tech Devices During Office Relocation

Relocating an office is a big job. There’s a lot to think about, from packing up desks to ensuring that technology is safely transported. Technology is the backbone of most businesses today, so taking care of tech devices during an office move is crucial.

If you don’t plan well, things could break, or important data could be lost. But don’t worry! We have simple strategies to help you handle tech devices smoothly during your office relocation.

Start Early and Plan Ahead

When moving tech, it’s important to start planning well in advance. Don’t wait until the last minute to think about how to move computers, printers, or servers. Create a timeline for the relocation, and include the tech move.

The earlier you start, the better you’ll be able to identify potential issues. You may need special equipment to transport sensitive devices or backup plans for any tech problems during the move.

Label Everything Clearly

A simple way to stay organized is to label all your tech devices. Labels should indicate where each item, including cords, chargers, and accessories, belongs in the new office space. If you have multiple computers or devices, give them clear labels.

Back Up Data Before the Move

Before packing devices with important business information, back up all your data. This is crucial for avoiding the risk of losing valuable files. Check that all files are fully synced if your company uses cloud storage.

If you store files locally, back up your data to external drives or cloud services. This ensures that you won’t lose crucial documents or information if something happens during the move.

Choose the Right Packing Materials

Tech devices need to be packed carefully to avoid damage during the move. The proper materials include bubble wrap, foam padding, and sturdy boxes.

Avoid using old boxes that might not provide enough protection. Each device should be wrapped securely to prevent scratches or damage. Be especially careful with fragile items, such as computer monitors or printers.

Hire Experts for Special Equipment

If you have large servers or other high-tech equipment, consider hiring experts specializing in handling technology, such as office removal services near Dublin. They will have the tools needed to move sensitive equipment safely, reducing the risk of damage.

Special equipment, such as server racks or climate-controlled transportation, may be necessary for some moves. To ensure everything arrives safely, it’s best to leave this to the professionals.

Ensure Proper Setup in the New Office

Once the tech devices are safely transported, it’s time to set them up. Make sure everything is connected correctly and tested before employees start using it. Double-check that all cables are plugged in and devices are powered up. 

Tech Devices: The Key to a Smooth Transition

Following these strategies doesn’t have to be stressful to relocate an office. You can ensure a smooth transition by planning, labeling everything, and backing up your data. Start early, stay organized, and you’ll be ready for the new office quickly.

Time to Make Your Move

Office relocations can be tricky, but with a little planning and care, your tech devices will be ready for action. Use these strategies to help make the transition as smooth as possible. If you want more tips on handling the moving process, keep reading our articles on office relocation. We’ve got all the advice you need!

For more on this content, visit the rest of our blog!

 

imoo Z7 Kids Smart Watch Phone First Look

The imoo Z7 Kids Smart Watch Phone is one of their latest products on the market for kids which keeps them safe and of course contactable at all times which is vital especially when a way on holidays and so on and of course at home.The imoo z7 kids smart watch is a cutting-edge smartwatch designed specifically for kids, offering a perfect blend of safety, connectivity, and fun.

Equipped with features like 4G HD calls, dual cameras, GPS tracking, and water resistance, this smartwatch ensures parents stay connected with their children while giving them the freedom to explore. The Z7 also includes a health monitoring system, long battery life, and a class mode, making it a reliable companion for school and playtime. It’s a must-have gadget for families looking for both practicality and peace of mind.

This is one of several kids smartwatches in for review so stay tuned and if you have any questions feel free to ask..

 

  • 2-way HD video and voice call – Stay connected to your kids at all times: the imoo kids smartwatch, with its flip-up dual cameras, lets you see not only your kids’ real-time status, but also the environment they are in during video calls. Wherever they are, they’re just a call away! Perfect for kids going back to school.
  • Real-time Locating & 14-Day History: With one tap, the imoo kids smartwatch gives you your kid’s exact real-time location using GPS, GLONASS, BeiDou, QZSS and Galileo satellite systems. With 14-day history, parents can see where their child has been in the last 14 days.
  • Multi-sport & Workout Data: imoo kids smartwatch with 4 built-in sports modes: swimming, running, jumping rope and insights into professional workout data such as calories burned, cadence, stride etc. and rewards to encourage kids to stay active.
  • IPX8 Swimming Water-resistant: imoo kids smartwatch allows kids to swim up to 20 metres underwater. Turn on the video function before entering the pool, and this kids’ smartwatch can record clear videos in the water.
  • Nano SIM Card Required: This kids smartwatch only accepts a standard nano-SIM card. Compatible operators include Vodafone, O2, Three and Giffgaff – please check for compatibility in your area. The watch’s default language is English, but it can be set to German, Spanish and Polish.

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Innovative Technologies Reshaping Medical Malpractice Cases: A Look at How Tech is Enhancing Legal Outcomes

In recent years, the healthcare landscape has transformed dramatically due to advancements in technology. From telemedicine to artificial intelligence, innovations have enhanced patient care, enabling healthcare providers to deliver more accurate diagnoses and efficient treatments. However, this rapid evolution also presents new challenges, particularly in the realm of medical malpractice. As technology plays a more significant role in healthcare, personal injury lawyers must adapt to these changes to effectively represent their clients in medical malpractice cases.

Understanding the intersection of technology and law is crucial for legal professionals. As healthcare technology evolves, it reshapes the way medical malpractice cases are approached. Lawyers must stay informed about the latest advancements to leverage these technologies in their clients’ favor. This blog will explore how innovative technologies are reshaping medical malpractice cases, highlighting their benefits and challenges while emphasizing the importance of adapting legal strategies to this evolving landscape.

Telemedicine: New Challenges and Opportunities

According to one legal practice, telemedicine has gained tremendous popularity, especially in light of the recent global pandemic. It offers patients the convenience of remote consultations, eliminating geographical barriers and improving access to healthcare. However, the rise of telemedicine also introduces unique challenges in medical malpractice cases. For instance, remote consultations can lead to misdiagnoses due to a lack of comprehensive physical examinations. This raises questions about the standard of care expected from healthcare providers operating in a virtual environment.

Moreover, the reliance on technology can create vulnerabilities in patient-provider relationships. In some cases, patients may feel less comfortable discussing their symptoms over a video call than in person. This discomfort can hinder accurate communication, potentially leading to adverse health outcomes. As personal injury lawyers navigate these complexities, they must consider the nuances of telemedicine in their legal strategies. Understanding the unique challenges it presents will enable lawyers to build stronger cases and advocate effectively for their clients.

Artificial Intelligence in Medical Diagnostics

Artificial intelligence (AI) is revolutionizing the way healthcare professionals diagnose and treat patients. AI-driven tools analyze vast amounts of medical data to identify patterns, assisting doctors in making more informed decisions. While these technologies enhance diagnostic accuracy, they also raise important legal considerations in medical malpractice cases. For instance, if a healthcare provider relies on AI-generated diagnostics, determining liability in case of an error can become complex.

Personal injury lawyers must grasp the implications of AI in their cases. They should investigate whether the healthcare provider adhered to the expected standard of care when utilizing AI tools. If a misdiagnosis occurs due to faulty AI technology, understanding the underlying algorithms and their reliability becomes crucial in establishing liability. By staying informed about AI advancements, lawyers can effectively advocate for their clients, ensuring that justice is served in medical malpractice cases.

Wearable Health Tech and Patient Monitoring

Wearable health technology, such as fitness trackers and smartwatches, has become increasingly popular among patients. These devices provide real-time health data, allowing individuals to monitor their conditions and share information with healthcare providers. The integration of wearable technology into patient care offers both opportunities and challenges in medical malpractice cases. On one hand, this technology can enhance patient engagement and empower individuals to take charge of their health. On the other hand, the reliance on wearable data can complicate legal proceedings.

For personal injury lawyers, the challenge lies in accurately interpreting the data collected from wearables. If a patient experiences adverse effects due to a healthcare provider’s negligence, the lawyer must determine how the wearable data correlates with the case. For example, if a patient suffers a heart attack despite wearing a device that indicated stable health, lawyers must examine the accuracy of the data and whether the healthcare provider acted appropriately based on that information. By understanding the implications of wearable technology, lawyers can effectively use this evidence to support their clients’ claims.

The Role of Digital Evidence in Courtrooms

As technology advances, digital evidence plays an increasingly critical role in legal proceedings. In medical malpractice cases, electronic health records (EHRs), digital communications, and telehealth documentation can provide invaluable insights into patient care. However, the admissibility of digital evidence in court can be complex, as legal professionals must navigate issues of data privacy and security. Personal injury lawyers must be adept at collecting, analyzing, and presenting digital evidence to build strong cases for their clients.

Furthermore, understanding the nuances of data protection laws is essential for lawyers handling digital evidence. If patient data is mishandled or improperly disclosed, it can compromise the integrity of the case. Lawyers must also be prepared to challenge the validity of opposing evidence, especially if it relies on questionable digital sources. By staying informed about digital evidence and data privacy regulations, personal injury lawyers can effectively advocate for their clients, ensuring that justice prevails in medical malpractice cases.

Future Trends: Predictive Analytics and Risk Management

Predictive analytics is an emerging trend in healthcare that utilizes data to forecast potential risks and outcomes. By analyzing patient data, healthcare providers can identify trends and implement proactive measures to minimize the likelihood of malpractice. This innovative approach not only enhances patient safety but also reshapes how personal injury lawyers approach their cases. As predictive analytics becomes more prevalent, legal professionals must adapt their strategies to align with this trend.

Personal injury lawyers can leverage predictive analytics to strengthen their arguments in medical malpractice cases. For instance, if a healthcare provider’s data indicates a high risk of complications for certain procedures, lawyers can argue that failing to inform the patient of these risks constitutes negligence. Additionally, understanding predictive analytics can help lawyers identify patterns in malpractice claims, allowing them to develop more effective legal strategies. Embracing this trend will enable lawyers to provide better representation for their clients, ultimately improving outcomes in medical malpractice cases.

Conclusion: Embracing Technology for Better Legal Outcomes

In conclusion, innovative technologies are reshaping the landscape of medical malpractice cases, presenting both challenges and opportunities for personal injury lawyers. As telemedicine, artificial intelligence, wearable health tech, and digital evidence continue to evolve, legal professionals must stay informed about these advancements to effectively advocate for their clients. Understanding the implications of technology in healthcare will enable lawyers to build stronger cases, ensuring justice is served for those affected by medical negligence.

By embracing technology and adapting their strategies, personal injury lawyers can navigate the complexities of medical malpractice cases with confidence. The integration of innovative tools and data-driven insights will empower legal professionals to achieve better outcomes for their clients, ultimately transforming the way medical malpractice cases are approached in the modern legal landscape. As the intersection of technology and law continues to evolve, it is crucial for legal professionals to remain proactive and informed, ensuring they are prepared for the challenges that lie ahead.

 

PanPan Kids SmartWatch First Look

The PanPan Kids SmartWatch is a new product to the Irish market and a welcome on and from a person that uses and reviews smartwatches all year round I welcome this for kids, I myself have a large collection of both kids and general watches and it good to see how these improve over time and best of all keep me off my phone to a great extent.
There is much talk today about how old kids should be giving them their first phone and is a heated topic I have discussed before but the later the better or a dumbphone if required it is not only up to the parents to be proactive here but social media companies and more. Google and Vodafone have been the latest to take action.
Today we give you a first look of the latest device so if you have any questions feel free to ask while we test it out over the next few weeks with some more kids tech but check out the features on offer below and then check out the video and feel free to ask any questions during the next few weeks.
Key Benefits for Parents
    • Privacy-Focused – No camera or recording functions, ensuring safety at school and compliance with GDPR.
    • Affordable and Convenient – Provides essential connectivity without the distractions or risks of a smartphone.
    • SOS and Two-Way Calling – Instant connection between child and parent at any time.
    • Real-Time Location Tracking – GPS location accessible through the app.
    • Geo-Fencing Alerts – Parents can set safe zones and receive notifications when their child moves beyond them.
    • Activity Monitoring – Built-in pedometer promotes movement and healthy habits.
    • Durable & Kid-Friendly Design – Comfortable, customisable straps and available in fun colours.
    • Optional 24/7 Monitoring Support – Additional security for families (available at an extra cost per month).

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Useful travel gadgets and accessories for holidays and trips in 2025

Need to up your tech game for your trips and holidays well here below is some you might want to check out for the year ahead with the latest tech on the market from cables to watches bluetooth speakers and more there is something for everyone that is also affordable and will make life easier in 2025
Twelve South PlugBug Travel Kit
Price: £79.99 (50w), £129.99 (120w)
Available from Twelve South UK and Apple
Twelve South’s PlugBug is the first ever USB-C plug with built-in Find My! Travellers will never leave their charger in the hotel or airport lounge again. Simply launch the Find My app on an iPhone so see exactly where it is, even if it’s on the other side of the world. The PlugBug can also act as an AirTag tracker for any bag it’s in, allowing users to find both their bag and charger. Users can even utilise the Notify When Left Behind feature to help ensure it’s not lost in the first place.

It can charge Power Delivery compatible devices much faster than a standard USB-C charger and detects which devices are being charged and delivers the right amount of fast charging power to them. Available in 50W with two ports or 120W with four ports, the Plug Bug also includes EU (Type C) and UK (Type G) interchangeable adaptors.

Folding prongs and ports that are accessible from the bottom of the charger rather than the back, make it easy to plug in to wall outlets in tight spaces, such as behind a sofa or side table. The all new travel version includes adaptors for US, UK, EU, AU KR and CN as well as a handy travel case to keep things organised.

QDOS PowerMotion Ultra 4.0 USB cable
Price: £39.99
Available from QDOS
The new QDOS PowerMotion Ultra USB-C to USB-C cables offer high performance both in terms of power delivery and data transfer. Users can enjoy up to 40Gbps of data transfer, making it the ideal travel accessory for creatives who travel, gaming, and those who want to transfer large files.
What’s more its 100% recycled TPE stepped connector means it’s compatible with all USB-C and high power enabled devices including Macbooks, laptops, smartphones, tablets and more.
Vango Tempest Airbeam pump from Outdoor World Direct
Price: £89.99
Available from Outdoor World Direct
The most intuitive pump for air tents available, the Vango Tempest pump offers easy inflation of any air tent or awning (not just Vango’s), meaning there is no need to carry and work a manual pump. The rechargeable pump simply plugs into the valve and inflates any tent to the correct pressure, offering effortless, fast-pitching when camping. The included attachments mean it can also inflate other gear like airbeds. It also has a deflate function to safely set down the tent. The LED screen features PSI (pressure gauge) and there’s even a USB port so it serves as a powerbank for charging other devices, like phones. What’s more it weighs just 1kg, so doesn’t add to a backpacker’s or festival goer’s load.
Highlander Ben Nevis 52L rucksack from Outdoor World Direct

Price: £99.99

Available in petrol blue for women and grey for men from Outdoor World Direct in March

Ideal for those who love hiking, and embark on multi-day hikes for pleasure or  the Highlander Ben Nevis 52L Rucksack in men’s or women’s from Outdoor World Direct is specially tailored for women’s bodies and designed for comfort.
The adjustable height system and dual webbing on the shoulder and hip straps prevents shoulder pain from long periods of carrying. Hydration bladder compatibility means no need to lift the rucksack off once it’s comfortably in place to drink to stay hydrated.
Large front and side pockets provide easy access and the included rain cover keeps belongings dry in wet conditions. It also features dedicated points for ice axes, walking poles, and a Pole-Park system for more technical hikes.
Highlander Venture Backpack from Outdoor World Direct
Price: £24.99
Available from Outdoor World Direct
This 20L day pack by Highlander is ideal for day trips, whether exploring the mountains or cities. It is also within cabin baggage size guidelines (H48 x W27 x D16cm) and so can make a useful hand luggage option, especially as it’s packed with features.
The main compartment has compression straps for neat packing and hydration bladder compatibility for outdoors activities. A bungee corded front pouch makes handy storage for a helmet or compressing a jacket, while the elasticated side pockets are perfect for a water bottle and umbrella.
Adjustable chest and shoulder straps allow for correct load distribution, preventing aching shoulders.
Groov-e Kidz Headphones – new upgraded version
Price: £17.99
Available from Amazon now and Currys and Robert Dyas in March
New and improved for 2025, these headphones now have a volume limiter switch of 85db or 100db to help protect little ears. Ideal for keeping them entertained on long car journeys or flights, they can be used wirelessly via Bluetooth or with the included 3.5mm cable (so compatible with in-flight entertainment).
The integrated mic is ideal for catching up with friends or gaming online. The generous 20-hours playback, adjustable headband and soft, padded ear cups make them ideal for long durations. When they’ve finished listening, the Kidz fold down to a compact size for storage or transportation.

Styletech Portable LED Speaker

Price: £19.99

Available from Very

This affordable, compact Bluetooth speaker is ideal for enjoying music and more when travelling. Enjoy up to 11 hours playback and punchy sound from the 5w speaker, while the 11 RGB animated light options on the LED ring – including 5 static colours and 6 animated – are perfect for setting the mood, or turn them off entirely.
Integrated buttons mean controlling playback can easily be done on the speaker, as well as from the connected device. Standing just 105mm tall and with a handy carry loop, it’s the perfect speaker for holidays and adventures.
Maxcom Gold and Silver 2

RRP: £79.99

Available from Amazon in gold and silver

Maxcom Gold and Maxcom Silver 2 smartwatches combine a classic look with advanced technology for managing life on the go. Designed to look and feel like a stunning piece of jewellery, perfect for dinners out when on holiday, its round stainless steel body and shiny gold or silver bracelet accessories any outfit perfectly.

The watches are ideal for travel; make calls and texts, check the local weather and receive important notifications on the go, as well as track steps and outdoor activities. They also continually measure pulse and blood pressure and analyse sleep quality, suggest breathing exercises, measure stress and mood and send reminders to stay hydrated.

Dedicated female focussed features allow women to track their menstrual cycle, fertile periods and pregnancy. A versatile fitness trainer, it also counts calories burned, distance travelled and supports over 70 sports disciplines.

The 1.2-inch AMOLED touch screen is bright and easy to read. Always-On-Display mode allows users to display the time on a blank screen, giving it the feel of a traditional watch. Users can choose from unique, original dials or from over 100 free watch faces that are available in the app. Its efficient battery lasts for up to seven days without charging.

Maxcom FW66 IronR review

Groov-e Triton
RRP: £20
Available from Groov-e, Moto motorway services, House of FraserSports DirectAmazon

Ideal for keeping your devices charged on the go, Groov-e Triton is a folding 3-in-1 portable magnetic wireless charger. Compact and no bigger than a post-it note when folded, it fits easily in a handbag, backpack or carry-on bag, meaning users don’t need to take multiple cables or chargers with them.

When unfolded, it has three separate Qi wireless charging pads that lay flat to provide power to multiple compatible devices. Whether that’s an Android or Apple mobile device, Apple Watch, AirPods or wireless earphones, users can charge them at the same time. Triton can also be folded into a rigid stand, allowing users to watch videos or take calls whilst charging.

TAGRY H08 ANC Headphones Review

The TAGRY H08 ANC Headphones are the latest on offer from the brand and are affordable and comes with a nice presentation which some could take note of.

The headphones are light , comfortable and do not clamp around the ears and fit really snug blocking out lots of the outside noise which is good as there is no app here for ANC fans who want the best in the business, they do however do a good job without the aide of an app and mostly more useful indoors rather than outdoors.

The H08 as mentioned will reduce most of the noise but not all and for the most that will do and calls are also clear here both ends on testing.

There is several buttons on the headset all on one side which keeps it simple and all the functions are at hand including skip and reverse tracks, lower and higher the volume and of course voice assistant access is on board.

With no EQ your stuck with the sound on offer which is slightly on the bass side which for many is ideal you can try third party apps but most are useless being honest.

The buttons are tactile and work really well to be fair meaning no wrong commands which again most would prefer and being on one side helps.

The sound overall is decent with no lag latency noted nor tinny sound when maxed out on all genres tested in my test runs which are pretty extensive and if you like bass these are for you they are decently loud and pack a punch on all genres.

Battery life is excellent here not only that 5 minutes charging gives you 10 hours of charge and with no EQ or app to enhance the experience this should be the case and is you can expect around 98-100 hours of playtime depending on volume control there is however an ANC button on these you can turn on an off and will of course affect the battery longevity regardless it is still pretty good.

 

 

 

Features

  • Noise Cancelling and Fast Charging:With advanced Active Noise Cancellation tech, which reduces up to 95% of ambient noise. Whether it’s the noise from a subway,the engine sound of a car or airplane, the H08 headphones minimize distractions, allowing you to fully enjoy your music.The fast charging tech lets you enjoy 10 hours of music with just a 5-minute charge. Less time spent charging means more time for music. With a full charge, you can use the headphones for a whole week without recharging.
  • 100Hrs Playtime and Punchy Bass:Up to 100Hrs playtime on a single charge,H08 headphones is perfect for long trips and daily commutes. Whether you’re catching up on favorite podcast during a trip or immersing yourself in music for hours at the office, this earphones keep the beat going. Punchy bass adds depth and richness to every track, delivering energetic, punchy sound that makes your playlists come alive. Enjoy all-day comfort and high-quality audio that keeps you going from morning to night.
  • Wireless and 3.5mm Wired Connection:Enjoy versatile listening options with the H08 headsets. Seamlessly switch between wireless Bluetooth connectivity and a 3.5mm AUX wired connection for maximum convenience. Whether you’re on the go and prefer the freedom of wireless, or you need a stable wired connection for your home stereo or plane entertainment system, the included 47.2-inch audio cable has you covered. H08 Wireless Headsets gives you the flexibility to enjoy your music exactly how you want.
  • Light Weight and Comfort Fit:Weighing just 0.54 lbs, the TAGRY H08 headphones are so light you’ll barely notice you’re wearing them. The ultra-soft protein leather ear cups provide a luxurious, cushioned feel that keeps you comfortable during long listening sessions. Whether you’re working from home, hitting the gym, or just relaxing with music, the H08 offers a snug, comfortable fit that stays gentle on your ears all day long.
  • Adjustable,Foldable and Portable:H08 headphones are designed for convenience and comfort. The ear cups rotate up to 105 degrees and the adjustable headband ensures a perfect fit for all head sizes, so you can wear them comfortably no matter your head shape. Comes with a handy travel pouch for carrying this Bluetooth headset. Whether you’re packing them in your bag or just tucking them away at home, this headphone is built for portability.

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