In a world driven by technology, with GenerativeAI and creative work growing in demand daily and the need for powerful servers in tech companies worldwide, Dell continues to stand strong as a pillar in the computing community. High-quality computers to handle the growing computing demands have never been more critical.
The Precision 7875 Tower Workstation is an incredibly versatile machine. Its base price of $3,299 can be scaled up to a fully loaded $38,904.67 beast of a machine. Unlike even the best business computers I have experienced, this workstation can handle anything thrown at it and more.
(Image credit: Collin Probst // Future)
Dell Precision 7875: Unboxing & first impressions
While I was initially unboxing this workstation, it was a powerhouse. I immediately noticed the sheer weight of the computer and quickly recognized the understated yet professional design of the case. It’s not flashy and loud like what is trendy in the custom PC or gaming PC world, with RGB lights everywhere and gaudy components. This is a professional workstation, and it looks sleek, minimal, and functional.
The second big thing I noticed was dual (NVIDIA® RTX™ 6000 Ada, 48 GB GDDR6, 4 DP) graphics cards. Third, I saw an intense power cable in both cable thickness and plug. Most computers, laptop bricks, and monitors (except Apple) all utilize standard C13 IEC power cables. However, this Precision 7875 Tower Workstation uses a C19 connector and C20 inlet to allow for higher amperage and, therefore, more power to the computer.
After booting up, I was reminded that my Precision 7875 Tower has been equipped with Windows 11 Pro (currently version 23H2) and that it has 128GB of RAM installed to work hand in hand with the AMD Ryzen Threadripper PRO 7995WX (96-Cores).
(Image credit: Collin Probst // Future)
Dell Precision 7875: Design & build quality
As I briefly mentioned, this workstation is simple yet robust. It’s well-built, has excellent ports, and is a professional workhorse just by looking at it. If looking directly at the front of the unit, the left side has a panel that can be removed to expand to utilize the six expansion bays quickly. There are also two SATA/M.2 Flex bays on the front of the tower, a place for a slim optical drive, and a handful of USB-C and USB-A ports that are all USB 3.2, plus an SD-Card slot, power button, hard-drive activity light, and a headphone and microphone combo port.
Specs
As Tested
Processor: AMD Ryzen Threadripper PRO 7995WX (384 MB cache, 96 cores, 192 threads, 2.5GHz to 5.1GHz, 350 W)
On the back, I was thrilled that my unit had some expansion ports filled. With those expanded ports, my Precision 7875 has a power port (C20 Inlet for 1350 W PSU), an audio jack, two RJ45 ethernet ports on the top (1 GB and 10 GB), two more 10GbE NIC ethernet ports built into the Intel X710 network card, three more USB-C 3.2 ports, three more USB-A 3.2 ports, and eight display ports split between two graphics cards.
Though this computer is an absolute beast in components, ability, ports, and power, it is still a standard-size desktop tower. All components are relatively easy to navigate around and expand, which is more than I can say for some competitors.
(Image credit: Collin Probst // Future)
Dell Precision 7875: In use
While testing the Dell Precision 7875, I attempted to run every benchmark I could throw at this machine – I wanted to know if it really was one of the best workstations or were appearances deceptive? Ironically, several tests I use to benchmark PCs failed due to too many cores. After fiddling with the number of cores to allow PCMark and others to use, I finally got some testing done.
I noticed right away that even while being tested, it takes quite a bit to get the Precision 7875 to break a sweat. During the entire testing process, I barely even heard the fans kick on. Now, granted, if I were utilizing this in its intended purpose to be my machine to work with GenerativeAI, intense programming, or creative apps for an extended period, I might have gotten this computer to give me more than what felt like a mere sigh, but that’s impressive in and of itself.
(Image credit: Collin Probst // Future)
Navigating around applications, web browsing, working on documents, and other daily admin tasks are an absolute breeze. Even jumping back to other high-powered computers I am testing, they feel slow after working on the Dell Precision 7875. The port offering is incredible, and I appreciate that I can use this computer vertically or horizontally due to the rubber feet that Dell has included all around the case.
Another huge component of this computer’s ease of use is that it has just about everything I could need already built in. It has a high-speed Wi-Fi module, an SD Card slot, a large number of USB-C and even USB-A ports, an absurd number of Display Ports, headphone jacks, plenty of Ethernet Ports, and even a disk drive, not to mention how helpful it is to have onboard storage that I would have to work hard to fill.
(Image credit: Collin Probst // Future)
This computer is designed for those who need a high-powered, best-of-the-best computer that can handle the most demanding applications and workflows.
Swipe to scroll horizontally
Attributes
Notes
Rating
Design
Simple and professional design
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Ease of use
Easy to use, great IO
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Practicality
Practical for those who need the power
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Price
Unbelievably expensive, but worth it
⭐⭐⭐⭐
Dell Precision 7875: Final verdict
The Dell Precision 7875 is a fantastic option for professionals who need a robust and reliable workstation. Dell engineered it to handle the most demanding programs and workflows, making the expensive investment worth the price for those who require unmatched performance and dependability.
Yes, it is not for everyone; it may not even be for most people. However, if you are a part of the demographic that needs the best regarding your choice in Windows-based workstations, you should check out the Dell Precision 7875 Tower and try kitting it out to fit your needs and wants.
We tested the best business laptops – and these are our top picks for a productivity boost
Capacities available: 4TB, 8TB, 16TB Size: 99.2mm x 99.2mm x 40.2mm Weight: 268g Enclosure material: Plastic Connector: USB-C Technology: SSD Warranty (in years): 3-Year Limited Warranty Rated R/W speeds (MB/s): Up to 1000MB/s / 900MB/s Software bundle: Acronis True Image for Western Digital backup software
The SanDisk Desk Drive 8TB is small and quiet, unlike traditional boxy and large desktop storage drives that are commonplace in workspaces worldwide. It is altogether smaller and more stylish, with an ultrafast internal 8TB SSD and a promise of a 16TB version to be released later this year.
The drive is, in principle, a straightforward desktop drive for use with a single computer with a USB Type-C connection to ensure speed and an external power source provided through a standard AC socket rather than drawing BUS power from the computer’s USB ports.
In use, the drive is simple enough. It is plug-and-play for most computing systems and arrives formatted in the ExFat file system. This means that it’s easy to swap between Mac and PC systems if required; if not, it can be reformatted into one of the more secure options, such as NTFS or APFS, which will also boost the performance and some computing options for those systems.
This drive will really appeal to laptop users who are often limited on internal space. The Desk Drive not only expands the space for large-scale 3D, image, and video projects but also offers transfer speeds through the USB Type-C connection so that it can be used as a working drive as well as for archiving files.
Like any of the best portable SSDs we’ve tested, once connected, the drive will appear as any other external drive. It can be used for file backup with Time Machine on the Mac or Acronis True Image on the PC. Alternatively, it can be used as a straight storage drive with an off-site solution. The beauty here is that the transfer rates are at a speed that the drive and capacity are not only sufficient for archiving your files but also as a viable working drive for large file types such as video, image, and 3D.
As large-capacity storage solutions go, the SanDisk Desk Drive perfectly balances speed, capacity, and price, making it ideal for any home or small office as a fast, reliable storage solution.
SanDisk Desk Drive 8TB: Price & availability
(Image credit: Alastair Jennings)
The SanDisk Desk Drive 8TB has a SRP £663.99 / $699.99, and the smaller 4TB version is available for SRP £359.99 / $379.99. Later in the year, a 16TB version will also be available, although the price is still to be confirmed. The drive is widely available and can be purchased directly from Western Digital
SanDisk Desk Drive 8TB: Design & build
(Image credit: Alastair Jennings)
The SanDisk Desk Drive 8TB is considerably smaller than most desktop hard drives, which makes it easy to place on the desk or neatly under the monitor. The actual design is simple, and with the slightly concaved top rather than flat, it seems perfectly formed for small office items such as paperclips and coins!
The size and shape also make it easy to pick up and move, and at 268g, it has just enough weight to act as a convenient paperweight when not in use. That weight also helps with positioning it around the desk, meaning that while lightweight, it’s not lightweight enough to be easily knocked from position.
Connection-wise, the drive features a single USB Type-C connection directly into the machine and an AC power socket that fits directly into a standard AC wall socket in the same way as any traditional desktop drive. These two cables keep things relatively neat at the back with no mess of extra cables. Unlike some larger drives, there are no additional USB ports for linking, pass-through, or hub features; this is simply a direct external drive for use by an individual at their desk.
Once the drive is in position and connected to power and the desktop, it quickly appears on the Mac desktop or can be accessed through Windows, depending on your system of choice. The drive comes preformatted in the ExFat file system for maximum compatibility but can be reformatted quickly to suit your preferred system. If you use both, you can stick with ExFat.
Once done, the drive can be used as with any other desktop drive or linked into a backup solution such as Time Machine on the Mac or with Acronis True Image for Western Digital backup software, which can be downloaded from the Western Digital website.
SanDisk Desk Drive 8TB: Features
(Image credit: Alastair Jennings)
The SanDisk Desk Drive 8TB offers plenty of storage capacity, with the 8TB version that we’re looking at in this review being suitable for most medium-sized usage individuals who might shoot images and video as part of their workload and need the speed to access those files quickly as well as archive them with the ability to gain access to them at speed without the need to dig through a server. The 4TB version, although smaller, is still a substantial capacity and would be better suited to those working with documents and the occasional use of image and video files. The larger 16TB version would be ideal for videographers in small businesses who just need plenty of storage to back up their projects after an edit or need the additional capacity for working projects.
One of the features that really makes the SanDisk Desk Drive 8TB stand out is the fast transfer speeds, with read speeds of up to 1,000 MB/s and write speeds of up to 900 MB/s, making it significantly faster than traditional desktop hard disk drives and many of the other solutions offered by Western Digital at present.
For many users, the SanDisk Desk Drive 8TB will also make a perfect solution for backing up all their work through applications such as Apple Time Machine or the downloadable Acronis True Image for Western Digital software. Both of these applications can be used to back up your desktop machine to the SanDisk Desk Drive 8TB to ensure that you always have two local copies of your files. Of course, it’s always good practice, especially in a business environment, to have another backup of your files either to a NAS or off-site cloud solution.
One of the most appealing aspects of the Desk Drive is its small size, which makes it far easier to position than many of the more traditional desktop hard drives. The fact that it also utilizes its own power supply means that its performance is more consistent than that of portable external hard drives.
Out of the box, the SanDisk Desk Drive comes in the exFAT file format, which is compatible with both Windows and macOS systems. It uses a USB Type-C connection for connectivity.
Finally, the drive comes with a three-year limited warranty to ensure that your investment is sound for at least a few years.
When it came to testing the drive, the advertised transfer speeds offered a few more options than more traditional HDD desktop drives. So, alongside the speed tests, the drive was used as a working drive for some of the best video editing software and best photo editors available to see if it could facilitate the delivery of large files and complex computing.
Starting with using the drive on a PC with Adobe Photoshop and copying 1TB of image files from an OWC CFExpress Type-B card, the transfer rate was impressive. Files crossed over through the Atlas CFexpress 4.0 Type B reader in a little under two minutes.
In use, the drive worked perfectly for photography, with the speed of downloading the image files from a CFExpress Type-B card to the storage helping to speed up the workflow. A full selection of files from a day’s shoot, some 1200 files, both JPEG and RAW, could be downloaded in a little under two minutes. When opening Adobe Bridge to browse the files, the application and drive worked fast enough for the thumbnails to generate and display in good time; likewise, opening and saving files was seamless without pause or delay.
Switching to the more intensive video workflow and again using 4K video captured on the Canon EOS R5 C, the drive fed the files to Final Cut Pro at a rate that enabled smooth video editing without dropped frames. The machine (MacBook Pro 16-inch M1) started to struggle with projects greater than 10 minutes in length rather than any issue with the speed of the content delivery from the drive.
To back up the real-world tests, where the small drive performed well, the benchmark tests also showed impressive results across the board, with the overall transfer rates exceeding those stated by Western Digital.
When it comes to other features, the SanDisk Desk Drive is somewhat limited – you have access to all the backup features offered by the Acronis True Image software, and this is simple to use. On the drive are installed link files for both Mac and PC, and although these are executable files, they simply take you to the download page on the Western Digital website. Once there, you scroll down to the download link for the Mac or PC version – it’s simple enough, but the downloads page is generic for all of their products, so not all software on this page is appropriate for this drive, which is worth noting.
While Acronis is a great piece of software, and the implementation here is excellent, enabling you to set source and destination locations for your files, this software really is about the backup of files rather than management. When it comes to security the software does enable you to do a clean wipe of the drive, however, if you’re storing sensitive data on the drive there is no default facility to do this other than using a third party software option. For a drive of this type, some type of integral security would have been nice to see.
Likewise, simplicity makes this drive easy to use. As a desktop drive, it will probably be plugged either directly into a hub or the machine it’s being used by. It would have been nice to see an additional USB Type-C port so other accessories or card readers could be daisy-chained into the drive.
However, the pure simplicity of the design and ease of use is what should make this drive so appealing to anyone running a small or home office looking for decent amounts of storage capacity.
Should you buy the SanDisk Desk Drive 8TB?
The SanDisk Desk Drive 8TB is best suited for professionals in creative industries who handle large media files regularly and require quick, reliable access. It’s also a great choice for those needing a robust backup solution for important data, combining speed with large capacity in a user-friendly format. This drive excels in environments where speed and capacity are critical, making it ideal for photographers, videographers, and digital artists.
The Trust USB Headset is a good and honest, plain and simple, salt-of-the-earth wired headset. If you or your staff are joining a few video calls a day and need an inexpensive pair of headphones and mic, this pretty much fits the bill in every way.
You could call the wired USB headset basic. It is. That’s not a bad thing here. This is about making video calls as easy as possible. No switches and flashing lights, no pressing and holding buttons to perform a series of convoluted tasks. Just plug it into your computer – it’s compatible with Windows, macOS, and ChromeOS – and you’re done.
Driving this point home is the user guide. It may be our favorite one yet. Imagine the untold relief at the sheer simplicity opening this up. Plug in headset. Twist right cup for volume. Flip mic to mute and unmute. What more needs to be said?
For comparison, we generally use the Jabra Evolve 2 65 Flex. More or less flawless in design, sound quality, and our overall pick for best Bluetooth headset. But it’s a high-end headset that’s difficult to justify for those not spending all day on calls. The Adya headset from the long-standing Trust is its mirror image in almost every conceivable way. But don’t let that fool you.
Trust Adya: Pricing & availability
The Adya retails for around £20 – which makes it about right for budget wired headsets, which tend to hover around the fifteen to thirty mark.
A slightly expensive, sustainably designed model is available, which features noise-canceling mic and Type-C adapter. A better fit for those who do more talking, but it’s otherwise the same headset design.
You can buy the standard 3.5mm version from Amazon and Argos in the UK, and it’s widely available elsewhere in Europe, but not – as far as we could see – the US.
Trust Adya: Design & features
(Image credit: Trust)
We found the Trust Adya is thoughtfully designed. The pleasing circle-within-circle of the cups mellows the stark, no-nonsense black. A flat, slender, rubbery microphone arm blooms into a shaped foam windscreen. The podgy foam pads are compact, minimizing the profile, with another padded strip along a band made of stiff, tight plastic. In the hand it feels substantial and relatively lightweight, clocking in at 165kg.
There are two essential features built into the Trust Adya USB headset: a volume dial on the right ear-cup and the ability to mute and unmute the mic by flipping the arm. In design, both are well-executed. The microphone arm softly slots into place with a satisfying click, letting you know it’s now muted. The dial confidently turns in place, not wildly spinning like some cheap piece of plastic, which gave us a feeling of real control over the volume. And aside from the discreet labeling, the function blends so seamlessly into the design, you wouldn’t know it was there.
Trust Adya: Performance
(Image credit: Trust)
When it comes to budget headphones with mic, it can sometimes feel like a bit of a dice roll. Often, the sound is tinny, lacking in bass. The volume so low you’re straining to hear, and worried that even if you do know how to respond to that half-heard question, the microphone will make you sound like a robot and ruin the rest of the day.
If it is a dice roll, though, the Adya headset is coming up sixes. We experienced no issues with the overall performance of the unit. During our tests, both in meetings, and through our own sound recordings, we found both audio and mic quality to be deep, crisp, clear. The volume dial complementing the set-up, because, as anyone in a large video call with lots of speakers knows, not all microphones are equal.
And the mute function on the mic worked very well. For us, it’s always a concern that, without pressing the on-screen mute, any physical button or switch may not really work, catching that unguarded slurp of tea or the start of an urgent call. But we can say, with the mic arm snug in the mute position, there wasn’t a single complaint about The Boys Are Back in Town playing during our last video call (although, in fairness, who would complain about that anyway?).
However, this is a budget model, so there are some compromises here. Without the ENC noise-canceling microphone found on the higher-range model, background noise and chatter was noticeable in our test recordings. Not enough to disrupt or derail a meeting, but present nonetheless, making them better suited if you can make calls in a quiet space or you work from home.
While we really like the overall design and construction, you definitely know when you’re wearing this headset. They may be lightweight in hand, but after longer meetings, they do start to feel heavy, and the initial comfortable tightness becomes wearing. Admittedly, that may be a consequence of a relatively new headset that hasn’t had time to somewhat slacken – and we prefer this over flimsy, creaking plastic headsets that threaten to break if you breathe too hard.
Trust Adya: Final verdict
(Image credit: Trust)
The Trust Adya USB PC headset is a really good choice if you want something with absolutely minimal fuss. If you’re making casual video calls, either for home, work or school, it does a fine job, with a pleasing audio quality and a crackle-free microphone.
We like the addition of the volume dial and mute function built into the headset. Performance is here smooth, uncomplicated, the required actions discreet even when you can’t see what you’re doing. We did find the mic picks up background chatter, which the more advanced model mitigates with its noise-canceling mic. For busy offices where that matters, this is a must. While comfortable, we also found the on-ear cups can get wearing after longer meetings, making them a better option for those not sitting in all-day meetings.
Overall, we were confident using this for any standard day-to-day meetings, whether as a viewer or speaker. This is a solidly designed wired headset for PC, Mac, and Chromebooks that doesn’t feel like a budget choice, working exactly as intended and expected.
Everyone tells you how tired you’ll be with a newborn, but take it from someone with a 3-month-old: It’s more than you can anticipate before having kids, unless you were previously an ultramarathoner and/or offshore oil rig worker.
When you’re putting your freshly baked human into a car seat, stroller, or generally taking it anywhere with you (which you have to do, apparently), you don’t just want the process to be easy; you need the process to be easy. That’s why I’ve fallen in love with the Britax Willow Grove SC travel system.
This car seat base, car seat, stroller, and stroller base all come in a package together, and everything just works. There are no tricks for installation or daily use. Anyone can easily figure out how to use every part of these things, even when you haven’t slept in days. Just click your little one into either the stroller or car seat attachment, fold up the wheeled base with one hand, and you’re off to wherever you need to go. The price you pay for this system is about $100 higher than you might pay for another all-in-one option from Chicco, but the build quality and ease of use is well worth the extra cost.
Getting Loaded
The most important thing for any newborn is a quality car seat and base; the hospital literally checked that we had ours installed before they allowed us to leave. There aren’t any official safety ratings for this system, but the National Highway Traffic and Safety Administration recommends rear-facing seats like this for infants. I grew up (and later babysat) in a time when you had to take your car to the fire department to install your car seat base permanently in the back seat until a child was old enough to not need it, so color me excited when I realized how easy the Britax base was going to be to install.
Photograph: Parker Hall
Simply click the two hooks around the now-standard child seat restraint area on your car’s seats (two hooks that often hide behind the cushions), put the seat belt through the company’s proprietary ClickTight Installation system, and press down. It all tightens in place easily, taking about 30 seconds to install. Once you’ve done it one time, swapping between cars is a breeze. No need to own two bases for different cars/friends/family.
Clicking the actual car seat into the base is also a breeze; it just clicks right in, with a handle on the forward side of the carrier (where your baby’s back faces) that easily allows you to detach it with one hand as your other grabs the handle of the carrier. Apart from the weight of your baby (we have a lunker!), it’s extremely wieldy and convenient.
I like that there are little plastic tabs on the left and right sides of the car seat you can use to hold the straps while you place your baby’s butt in the seat. This makes it super easy to then click your baby in place with the three-piece click harness and to cinch them in with the strap between their legs.
On a Stroll
The best part of the car seat is that it easily clicks in and attaches to the foldable stroller base, which means you don’t have to transfer a sleeping kid to a stroller seat when you want to roll them somewhere fresh out of the car. This is awesome, especially because the foldable stroller section can easily be deployed one-handed, thanks to a simple hook-to-hold mechanism on the outside of the right rear wheel pole. You just unhook the plastic piece that’s holding the stroller folded, and gravity does the rest.
The counter space in my kitchen is at a premium. It’s valuable real estate, and every square inch matters. So when a new espresso machine arrives at my door, I always have to play a high-stakes game of countertop appliance Tetris to figure out how everything will fit—or who needs to get banished into a cupboard. When the De’Longhi Specialista Arte Evo rolled into my kitchen, I was ready to make tough decisions.
From the box’s size, I was sure the rice cooker or the food processor would have to be exiled. When I got the De’Longhi out of its box, though, my appliances breathed a sigh of relief. This is a svelte espresso machine, and it fits perfectly without sending any of my favorite appliances to a pantry gulag. Things were off to a good start, and it only got better—mostly.
Slim and Consistent
The first couple of shots I pull out of any espresso machine will usually require some finagling. When an espresso machine has an internal burr grinder, that’s just one other thing I have to dial in from scratch. By the second shot, I was happy with what I was getting out of the Specialista.
The espresso poured into the cup in two streams of luxurious caramel-gold liquid, the crema gathering on top in an even layer. I changed the settings and pulled more tester shots to see how it performed with different grind consistencies and amounts for testing purposes, but by that second shot, I knew I’d found the sweet spot.
Photograph: Jaina Grey
Something I always like about De’Longhi espresso machines is the knobs. A lot of different models from the company up and down the price spectrum have really good knobs. The ones here are a joy to use. They’re raised from the surface of the control panel, and the outward face has the signature concentric circles of machined steel; the sides are adorned with textured metal accents. One controls the amount of coffee to grind, and the other toggles between brewing modes.
When you turn the grind knob, there’s a little resistance, just enough to feel like you have very fine control. The mode knob has a satisfying click when you switch from one mode to another. How much you enjoy using a device is important, and these little details make the Specialista Arte Evo feel good to use.
The Specialista Arte Evo comes in at a delightfully narrow 11.2 inches, sparing quite a bit of my counter space—especially since this is taking the place of two appliances, an espresso machine and a coffee grinder. There are smaller espresso machines—the new KitchenAid Semi-Automatic Espresso Machine is about as narrow as the Specialista—but most that have a built-in grinder are a little wider.
Photograph: Jaina Grey
Some Assembly Required
The Specialista’s built-in conical burr grinder can grind coffee fine enough for espresso and coarse enough for drip or other brewing methods, so it’s capable of replacing a stand-alone grinder. There is one little quirk, though. The portafilter can’t slot into place underneath the grinder unless you attach the “grinding and tamping guide.” This component is a short cylinder of plastic that locks onto the portafilter to guide the grounds directly into the basket and help direct the tamp down onto the grounds.
It’s weird. The guide doesn’t feel as high-quality as other parts of the Specialista, almost like a cheap 3D-printed plastic. If you try to slot the portafilter underneath the grinder without the guide, you have to hold it there the whole time, and the grinder will likely spill some grounds into the drip tray. It feels like the grinding and tamping guide was added as a fix to the issue of the grounds spilling out.
The Ninja Double Stack air fryer demonstrates once again that the brand is king of convection cooking, offering blazing cooking speeds in a clever form factor that serves to address the needs of smaller households and keen cooks the world over. Without a doubt, it’s one of the best air fryers I’ve ever used – and I’ve used a fair few at this point.
Shopping for the perfect air fryer can leave you feeling a bit like Goldilocks, and especially if counter space is at a premium in your kitchen. A two-drawer model like the Instant Vortex 9-quart Air Fryer with VersaZone technology might be perfect for the number of mouths you typically have to feed, but these are typically behemoths. Alternatively, you could opt for one of the best small air fryers, but then these often have a meager, sometimes single-portion only capacity.
It’s been my perennial issue as a single-person household that regularly has guests. My kitchen is fairly compact, so I’ve been incredibly limited for space when I’ve tested larger models like the Ninja Foodi FlexBasket Dual Air Fryer. That’s why since I learned about the Ninja Double Stack air fryer – styled as the DoubleStack in the US – I’ve been itching to get my hands on it.
(Image credit: Future)
As the name suggests, the Ninja Double Stack air fryer stacks its two cooking drawers stop one another instead of side by side, as we tend to see in dual-basket air fryers. Instead of a top- or front-mounted dashboard, a small panel juts out to the right side of the device, hosting all the functions and controls you’ll need to operate the Double Stack. Plus, Ninja has even thrown in two extra racks, which can be slotted in above the main crisper plate, giving you bonus surface area to cook with – though the grill spacing makes these far better for larger food items.
Just like other products in the Ninja line, I saw great results from the Double Stack air fryer, from delicious fluffy fries to perfectly crispy chicken and succulent salmon. It should be no surprise, but I was concerned before trying the device that the cooking quality may have been compromised by the new design. Thankfully, there were no cooking compromises that I could detect. The only real down-side is the price, which is on the high side for a dual-basket air fryer – but for those who need to protect their previous counter space, it’s well worth the extra cost. Here’s my full review.
Ninja Double Stack air fryer review: price & availability
List price: XL (8.3qt / 9.5L): $229.99 / £269.99 / AU TBC
Availability: UK and US – Australia TBC
At time of writing, the Ninja Double Stack is available in the UK and US. In its XL 8.3qt / 9.5L capacity, it has a list price of $229.99 / £269.99. Availability and pricing in Australia is TBC. There should also be a standard, 6.7qt / 7.6L model to go alongside the XL model reviewed here, but since the devices were first announced earlier this year, we haven’t heard anything about it.
The Double Stack XL is a fair bit more expensive than comparable double-drawer air fryers like the Instant Vortex 9-quart air fryer, which costs $199.95 / £199.99 / AU$399, but for the price difference, you get an as of writing one-of-a-kind device offering superior performance and maximum air frying potential.
It comes with two non-stick, dishwasher-safe drawers and crisper plates, two stainless steel racks and a recipe guide.
Value for money score: 4.5 out of 5
Ninja Double Stack air fryer specs
Swipe to scroll horizontally
Dimensions (H x W x D)
XL version: 15.1 x 11 x 18.5in / 38.5cm x 28cm x 47cm
Capacity
XL version: 8.3qt / 9.5L
Cooking modes
Air Fry, Max Crisp, Roast, Bake, Dehydrate, Reheat
Weight
22.7lb / 10.3kg
Dishwasher safe baskets?
Yes
Product code
US: SL401 / UK: SL400UK / AU: TBC
Ninja Double Stack air fryer review: design
Space-efficient design, with two drawers stacked vertically
Side-mounted dashboard
Two extra stainless steel racks doubles the cooking space
For anyone with a smaller kitchen or who prefers a more compact setup, the Ninja Double Stack is a revelation. It’s the first air fryer to stack two drawers vertically to optimize counter space, and the inclusion of its two stainless steel racks doubles the surface area available for cooking. The air fryer is available in one colorway; a sophisticated slate gray shell, with ridged silver handles. It’s simple and subtle, and I personally prefer that to the glossy black cladding many air fryers opt for.
(Image credit: Future)
To account for those who might have lower-hanging cabinets, the controls for the Double Stack are mounted to the right of the air fryer, which does add 2in / 5cm to the overall width. However, it’s fairly unobtrusive, and unless you plan on having the right side of the air fryer flush to the wall shouldn’t pose a problem (reminder that you should be leaving at least 5 inches of space around an air fryer if you don’t want to make one of the biggest mistakes of air fryer cooking).
The side panel offers all the usual Ninja air fryer features. There’s a screen at the top which shows the timer for each drawer as well as the temperature setting. Beneath are numbered buttons to individually control each drawer, as well as a list of the six presets for air frying, roasting, max crisp, reheating, baking and dehydrating. Each setting has a light indicator next to it to show which mode is currently selected, and you can tweak the settings using the temperature and time buttons in tandem with the roller dial. Lastly, you’ll find the Double Stack Pro, Sync and Match buttons above the power and stop / start buttons.
(Image credit: Future)
Its two dishwasher-friendly 5qt / 4.75L baskets have individual handles, so you can fully manage each drawer independently. However, if you’re using the two stainless steel trays on top of the base crisper plates, it might be a little more annoying to flip and adjust your food mid-cooking cycle. Ninja has made efforts to ease this slight drawback by adding handles to the trays, making them nice and easy to quickly remove.
It’s worth noting that the back of the baskets each have a grate with fairly large holes, so it’s not suitable for cooking high volumes of liquid – we recommend against cooking these kinds of dishes in an air fryer instead of one of the best instant pots, regardless, but some users do like to break convention. These holes also mean that if you shake particularly oily, batter-laden or otherwise messy foods, some liquid may splash behind the baskets onto the back of the air fryer. It’s a very small issue judging by my testing so far, so long as you keep on top of cleaning the Double Stack.
Ninja Double Stack air fryer review: performance
Same fantastic performance as other Ninja air fryers
Perfectly crisp chicken wings and fluffy fries
Time and effort-saving Sync and Match settings
Before I tested the Ninja Double Stack air fryer, I was a little dubious about how its performance would hold up against other Ninja models I’ve tested. Surely, there would be a compromise to vertically stacking the drawers, otherwise, it would have been done far sooner, right?
Thankfully that doesn’t seem to be the case with the Double Stack. Everything I cooked came out just as good as I’d expected, with perfectly crispy chicken wings without the need for a drop of oil, and gorgeous fluffy fries with the perfect amount of bite. There was a small degree of unevenness; fries towards the back of the basket cooked ever so slightly faster than the front, but it was to such a small degree I don’t think most users would notice.
(Image credit: Future)
The Double Stack offers six cooking modes – Air Fry, Max Crisp, Roast, Bake, Dehydrate, and Reheat – all of which work just as well as in other Ninja air fryers. The different modes all have different temperature and time limits, but the Double Stack can reach temperatures of 450F / 240C and cook for up to an hour. It doesn’t require pre-heating, meaning you can get straight to cooking.
Food cooked on the stainless steel trays seems to fare just as well, though you do lose the benefit of the crisp trays’ surface area. For some foods, that’s a benefit; you don’t always want foods to cook via contact as well as convection, which was definitely the case for the chicken wings I cooked across both types of trays.
(Image credit: Future)
You’ll also have to think about the overall temperature setting of each basket and put foods with like-for-like cooking times and temperatures in each basket, or open up the trays to add in food later. This can be slightly annoying at times; I had to strategically plan how I cooked four tapas dishes to make sure I’d optimized both the strengths and weaknesses of both types of tray, as well as the cooking times and temperatures of each dish. It’d still opt for this rather than heating up a whole oven, though.
(Image credit: Future)
In case you’re new to the world of Ninja air fryers, it’s worth highlighting the Sync and Match cooking modes, which work to ensure your food all comes out at the same time. Simply select your cooking mode, set your time and, if you’re synchronizing the two baskets, select the cooking times for each, and you’re all set.
Unlike other dual-drawer models I’ve tested, including Ninja’s Instant Vortex 9-quart air fryer, there’s virtually no heat leakage between the two trays, which is excellent news if you’re working with very precise foods or just don’t want to waste energy by passively heating two areas when you only need one.
(Image credit: Future)
On the down-side, you can’t cook larger foods like pizzas or whole chickens in the Double Stack like you can in wider air fryers with larger cooking cavities. It’s the natural trade-off with its smaller footprint, and there are plenty of options that do cater to that need, if that’s your priority. While Ninja claims the XL model I tested can feed eight people, I’d say that’s a little ambitious unless you’re padding out the meal with non-air fryer foods too.
Performance score: 5 out of 5
Should I buy the Ninja Double Stack air fryer?
Buy it if…
Don’t buy it if…
Ninja Double Stack air fryer: alternatives to consider
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Header Cell – Column 0
Ninja Double Stack XL
Ninja Foodi FlexBasket Dual Air Fryer
Instant Vortex 9-quart Air Fryer with VersaZone Technology
Price:
$229.99 / £269.99 / AU TBC
$199 / £270 / AU$599.99
$199.95 / £199.99 / AU$399
Dimensions (h x w x d):
XL: 15.1 x 11 x 18.5in / 38.5 x 28 x 47cm
12.9 x 19.5 x 12.4in / 32.7 x 49.6 x 31.6cm
15.9 x 12.5 x 15.1in / 40.3 x 31.7 x 38.4cm
Capacity:
XL: 8.3qt / 9.5L
9.15qt / 10.4L
7.5qt / 8.5L
Weight:
22.7lb / 10.3kg
20.8lb / 9.3kg
15.7lb / 7kg
Dishwasher-safe baskets?
Yes
Yes
Yes
How I tested the Ninja Double Stack air fryer
I used the Ninja Double Stack air fryer for two weeks
I used it to cook all of my meals, including chicken wings, fries and salmon
I also tested the different cooking functions
I used the Ninja Double Stack air fryer as my main countertop cooker for two weeks, using it to cook everything from fries to chicken wings, salmon and even cauliflower cheese. I evaluated how each food item cooked across all four trays, using different settings to see how well each function performed. I assessed how succulent meat and fish were after cooking against how well the outside crisped, as well as the evenness of the browning, and how well fries managed to retain their internal fluffiness while still achieving crispy skin.
In addition to the cooking, I evaluated how easy maintenance was; is it easy to clean the baskets and trays both with and without a dishwasher, are there any extra considerations for cleaning, and how easy is the device to actually operate.
I’ve been testing air fryers for two years, and in that time I’ve tried everything from premium to affordable, single-serve to full family models. This experience combined with my love of food and cooking help to inform my findings in every review.
CPU: 2.2 GHz Intel Xeon D-1518 4-Core Graphics: VGA RAM: 32GB ECC RAM. Storage: 5 x 4TB 3.5″ 7200 rpm SATA HDDs Rear Ports: Includes 2x 10GbE and 2x 1GbE network connections, USB-A 3.2 Gen 1. Front Ports: 2 x USB-A 2.0 Connectivity: 2x 10GbE and 2x 1GbE network connections Audio: n/a Camera: n/a Size: 325 x 220 x 230mm OS installed: TrueNAS SCALE. Accessories: n/a
In the background of most offices and studios, there’s usually some form of server with access to mass storage working away. This storage is typically found in a secluded area and accessed only by a qualified IT professional. While such network systems are complex and can be tricky to administer, their functionality is essential for any business, essentially supplying a centralised resource where all staff can access shared files of all types.
The OWC Jupiter Mini is a Network Attached Storage (NAS) system that, while not a fully integrated server, performs all the storage jobs that larger enterprise technology handles in large institutions. The Jupiter Mini, though smaller and easier to administer, still offers the potential for a substantial amount of storage, up to 100TB and can be accessed by multiple users without the system slowing down, making it an ideal solution for small to medium-sized businesses and professionals working with TB of photos or video files and needing a professional storage solution.
The Jupiter Mini integrates with your network and can be subdivided into network drives (datasets) that can then be accessed by anyone on that network or remotely, given the correct permissions.
While there are many alternative NAS systems on the market, which may seem considerably cheaper, the Jupiter Mini offers incredible value, considering the performance, storage, and support provided. Unlike many consumer units designed for occasional access, this NAS can connect to the network with a 10GbE connection and is supported by powerful internal hardware capable of handling substantial data flow and multiple concurrent connections without faltering.
We’ve tried out plenty of the best NAS devices, and in our tests, the speeds over the wired connection were impressive. 140 GB was transferred to three machines in around 30 minutes, which is significantly faster than a consumer unit used to compare.
The speed of the connection makes a considerable difference when storing files, allowing multiple users easy access over the network in a small studio setting using smb shares. This means project folders and files can be quickly downloaded to a working drive and restored once finished. Additionally, equipment forms, risk assessments, and other regularly accessed files are easily reachable on-site, which is invaluable when internet connectivity is unreliable.
Ultimately, if you’re a small to medium-sized business and need an easy mass storage device that is fast and easy to access with great support, then there is little to fault with the OWC Jupiter Mini.
OWC Jupiter Mini: Price & availability
(Image credit: Alastair Jennings)
The OWC Jupiter Mini is available directly from OWC and from many technology outlets. However, buying directly ensures that you get the exact specifications and build you require, whether for personal use or your business. Units start at the base level of 20TB, which we’ve examined in this review, and begin at $2,999.
OWC Jupiter Mini: Design & build
(Image credit: Alastair Jennings)
NAS boxes typically have a functional style with quick-access drive slot doors on the front and various ports around the back, often resembling an enlarged external hard drive. OWC, however, has enhanced this design principle with the Jupiter Mini, adding aesthetic touches such as blue anodised door lever locks on the front, giving the drive a stylish edge over competitors.
Despite its aesthetic appeal, this unit’s true value lies in its features and functionality. The drive is available pre-configured from OWC and many other retailers, saving at least a couple of hours of setup time. This means it can be quickly integrated into your network and ready for use, providing instant, high-capacity storage without much fuss.
For many small businesses, this easy access to large storage capacity will be more than enough, having a drive that you can simply plug in and then browse the network located the drive login, and the Jupiter Mini network drive just appears on your desktop, ready to use, all very simple. However, the Jupiter Mini is far more, and the appeal of the machine isn’t just the simplicity of connection but the ease of use when it comes to the administration of that storage for the people accessing the drive. Administration is handled by the TrueNAS interface, which is pre-installed and enables an administrator to log in and allocate different storage areas to groups or individuals in the form of datasets, as well as enable external sharing and check drive health.
The drive also offers future expansion options, so you can start with the 20TB version and then expand the storage as needed. Drive replacement is made possible in a couple of ways, either by replacing the drives physically in the mini and then creating a new pool/dataset/share with the new drives. Or replace one drive in the pool with the larger one, let it resolve, replace another, let it resilver, and continue until you have replaced all 5 drives. Once this is done, you can then expand the pool to take up additional space on the drives, which is done with a single button press in TrueNAS.
If you like to explore the system, you can connect to the Jupiter Mini directly. It has a VGA port at the back and can be connected to a keyboard and mouse. This approach is far more akin to enterprise-level solutions, and for most users, the GUI of the TrueNAS browser version will be a far easier environment to navigate.
OWC Jupiter Mini: Features
The hardware of the Jupiter Mini is designed to meet the needs of creatives and support the large file types that tend to be handled in these environments, which is where similar capacity but lesser-powered NAS boxes struggle. The Jupiter Mini base capacity is 20TB (expandable to 100TB) and uses ZFS RAID for data protection; this leaves 16TB of usable space. The box comes pre-configured as RAIDZ1 (similar to RAID 5). One of the advantages of this is that the ZFS automatically caches your most frequently used and recent files in RAM, providing faster access to files at flash-like speeds. It also features a high-speed 10GbE network connection, providing faster file access compared to standard NAS drives, with all the processing down to its enterprise-grade Xeon Processor and 32GB of ECC RAM. Using the Jupiter Mini as part of a studio or office setup allows multiple users to access the NAS simultaneously, with automatic file caching for swift retrieval of frequently accessed files.
The system comes preloaded with the TrueNAS SCALE, which enables the easy management of the drive and its storage. This allows different network drives to be created and access permissions granted, ensuring a straightforward setup and management and a system that is fully compatible with both Mac and PC systems.
While the drive’s overall handling is quite straightforward, if you do get stuck, there’s plenty of documentation online, as well as a comprehensive single-source warranty and outstanding Pro Support from OWC. This support offers assistance during the setup and beyond, ensuring that help is just an email away if you have any questions or issues that may arise.
OWC Jupiter Mini: Performance
(Image credit: Alastair Jennings)
Network storage is a significant asset in any studio or office environment. It enables the sharing of large-format files among colleagues. In a studio setting, this is particularly beneficial for transferring large video files across the network, eliminating the need to copy everything onto portable hard drives and move them from one person to another.
While there are plenty of NAS solutions available, the Jupiter Mini stands out as one of the few options tailored for small to medium-sized businesses, boasting ease of use and operation, power, and scalability without requiring extensive IT experience.
The initial setup and use of the Jupiter Mini were notably straightforward, with the device connecting to the back of the EERO 6 wifi router and becoming accessible throughout the studio and home. This centralised resource proved its value by allowing quick access to essential video and image files for projects. The speed of file transfers was instantly impressive over the wifi connection, with 140GB of data downloading in about an hour and a half, compared to six hours with our existing NAS.
However, when connected to the studio’s wired network, the download time for the same files dropped to less than 30 minutes as the files were transferred to the OWC ThunderBlade X8. The OWC ThunderBlade X8 was used as a local working drive and enabled the fast transfer speeds required by the best video editing software for cutting and grading.
In the test, the network here is not the fastest 10GbE network at 2.5GbE. However, the speed was impressive for a self-managed system. After a week, the potential of faster network storage became obvious, and TrueNAS was used to create additional datasets for different groups and users. This enabled different areas of the storage to be assigned as a network drive, with permissions to users and groups assigned. Once the dataset is created, it can then be shared through smb. Another nice feature is that you create a zvol, which then enables you to format that segment of the drive in another file format. There is also a host of apps that can be downloaded and used if you need an on-site web development environment, and again, you can assign part of the storage to this.
Through the test all administration was managed through the browser TrueNAS GUI. While there was a learning curve, it proved to be a powerful tool with plenty of documentation to support its use. As previously mentioned, if you do want a little more, then you can access the command-line version of TrueNAS by using a VGA monitor, keyboard, and mouse, a setup more common in server environments than in small offices.
One key consideration was whether the OWC Jupiter Mini could serve as shared network editing storage for software like Final Cut Pro, DaVinci Resolve, or Premiere Pro. While technically possible with the correct setup and network speed, this NAS is not specifically designed for such intensive tasks, a role better suited to more powerful and expensive solutions like the OWC Jellyfish. However, lighter tasks, such as a centralised resource for photo or graphic design, are well within the Jupiter Mini’s remit.
The OWC Jupiter Mini offers an easy-to-maintain, out-of-the-box NAS solution that provides enterprise-level performance, far surpassing what is achievable with consumer models and is scalable up to 100TB to meet the growing data storage needs of home, office, or studio environments.
Should you buy the OWC Jupiter Mini?
The OWC Jupiter Mini is designed for creative professionals and small businesses that require a commercial network storage solution with substantial storage potential without the need for extensive IT know-how. Commercial NAS boxes, although ideal in functionality, often become completely impractical due to their design, cost, and often complex command-line administration. Conversely, smaller consumer models may offer ease of use but rarely offer the speed or power for multiple concurrent connections, capacity, connection features or ready support. These are all areas where OWC and the Jupiter Mini excel.
As a basic NAS, the Jupiter Mini is straightforward and efficient, making it particularly attractive to videographers and photographers needing reliable storage for projects and files. Its compatibility with the ThunderBlade X8 as a local working drive enhances its functionality. In a home environment, investing time in TrueNAS allows for segmenting the storage and providing dedicated areas for network or shared storage needs within the office or household.
The real advantage lies in its appeal to those seeking commercial-grade network storage that is both high-performing, expandable and reliable. The system includes a built-in support email system to alert users of potential issues with the hardware, preventing drive failures or other significant problems. In an office or studio setting, this single unit can be configured to provide various storage spaces for different groups, with tailored allocations and access, mirroring the capabilities of a large company’s IT system.
Although the initial investment in the OWC Jupiter Mini is significant, the value it offers in storage capacity and the ability to self-manage—backed by OWC’s excellent support—makes it a great choice. For studios or small offices in need of a network storage solution, the OWC Jupiter Mini stands out as one of the fastest, easiest-to-use, and most versatile systems available.
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Row 0 – Cell 0
Row 0 – Cell 1
Row 0 – Cell 2
Value
Efficient and cost-effective for its capabilities
4
Design
Sleek, modern design with practical features
4
Features
Extensive features, ideal for varied storage needs
5
Performance
Fast, reliable, and handles large files easily
5
Total
High-performing, feature-rich NAS for professionals
Saily is a new eSIM service launched in 2024 by Nord Security, the company behind the popular NordVPN. It provides affordable mobile data plans for international travelers on both iPhone and Android devices, with coverage in over 150 countries.
As a product backed by the reputable NordVPN brand, Saily benefits from the company’s focus on security and privacy. Users praise its easy installation process, affordable pricing, and reliable coverage across the world.
However, limitations exist, such as the lack of regional data plans and the need to use the mobile app for installation and management. As a new player in the eSIM market, Saily doesn’t offer the same breadth of features and country-specific options as more established providers.
Saily: Plans and pricing
Saily offers a straightforward pricing structure for its eSIM plans, with options for both short-term and long-term use. Plans are priced based on the amount of data and the duration of the package, ranging from 1GB to 20GB and 7 to 30 days. Here’s an overview of a few popular plans:
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Region
Data Amount
Validity
Price
US
3 GB
30 days
$8.99
UK
3 GB
30 days
$8.99
Australia
3 GB
30 days
$7.99
Japan
3 GB
30 days
$6.99
China
3 GB
30 days
$9.99
While some competitors may offer unlimited data plans at higher prices, Saily’s pay-for-what-you-need approach is an attractive choice for budget-conscious travelers.
Saily: Features
(Image credit: Saily)
While it doesn’t offer many distinguishing features, Saily always makes it a point to get the basics right. Here are some things that stood out to us during our experience with the eSIM service from NordVPN:
Minimalistic UI
One of Saily’s most notable features is the clean UI that makes it easy for first-time eSIM users to navigate the app interface. The app provides straightforward on-screen instructions for purchasing plans and activating the network, ensuring a smooth user experience.
From NordVPN
As a product of Nord Security, the company behind NordVPN, Saily benefits from the brand’s strong association with privacy and security. However, our review didn’t find any particular security features or add-ons worth talking about.
Local Partnerships
Being a new eSIM provider, Saily is still behind more established players like Airalo or Nomad in terms of country coverage. But, it has built a network of quality partnerships with local telecom networks to provide excellent performance in the countries where it does business.
Saily: Installation
(Image credit: Saily)
Saily makes purchasing and activating an eSIM a breeze. The app-driven experience automates the process, allowing users to select a data plan for their destination and complete the transaction within minutes. The onboarding flow is intuitive and user-friendly, even for first-time eSIM users.
After purchasing a plan, Saily provides on-screen instructions for eSIM installation directly within the app. Users simply need to navigate to their device settings, scan the provided QR, and wait a few moments for activation.
One key aspect of Saily’s onboarding is the ability to set up the eSIM before departing, ensuring connectivity upon arrival at the destination. This is especially important since Saily requires an active internet connection for eSIM activation.
Saily: Coverage and speed
Saily offers eSIM coverage in over 150 countries across Europe, America, Asia, Africa, and Oceania. While the company partners with local providers to enhance network availability, the quality of coverage may vary depending on the telecommunications infrastructure in each country. Destinations include:
United States
Thailand
Japan
Malaysia
India
However, users can expect faster data speeds in North American, European, and Asian countries compared to Latin American and African regions. There aren’t any significant network problems, plus Saily offers 3G, 4G, and LTE browsing speeds in most nations.
Compared to other eSIM providers, Saily’s coverage is slightly more limited, as competitors like Airalo boast coverage in up to 200 countries. However, Saily’s partnerships with local providers help ensure a dependable connection.
Saily: Support
(Image credit: Saily)
Apart from a detailed knowledge base for customer self-service, Saily offers 24/7 support through its app via live chat. It also provides an email address ([email protected]) for general inquiries.
While we couldn’t find much information on Saily’s customer support through online reviews, our personal experience with the platform has been positive. It’s also worth noting that since Saily is from the same team that manages NordVPN, users can expect a similar standard for handling customer inquiries.
Saily: Final verdict
With its straightforward pricing structure, extensive coverage in over 150 countries, and commitment to security and privacy, Saily offers a compelling package for budget-conscious globetrotters.
However, it’s important to note that Saily may not be the best fit for those seeking the most comprehensive coverage or unlimited data plans. As a new player in the market, Saily’s country-specific options and features aren’t as extensive as some more established competitors. Still, it’s a viable option for those who prize simplicity and affordability over the most extensive feature set.
Saily: FAQs
How do I install the Saily eSIM?
Installing and activating the Saily eSIM is a simple process. First, download the Saily app on your compatible device. Once you’ve purchased a plan, the app will provide you with a QR code. Navigate to your device’s settings, locate the eSIM settings, and scan the QR code. Your eSIM will be installed and activated within a few moments.
Can I use Saily eSIM in multiple countries?
Saily currently does not offer regional or global plans that cover multiple countries. You will need to purchase separate plans for each country you visit. However, the company offers affordable rates and flexible durations, allowing you to tailor your plans to your specific travel needs.
Does Saily offer any discounts or promotions on eSIMs?
Yes, Saily occasionally offers discounts and promotions to its users. Keep an eye out for special deals, particularly during holiday seasons or major travel periods. If you have a referral code, you can use it to get a discount on first-time usage as well
CPU: Intel Core i9-12900H Graphics: Intel Iris Xe Graphics RAM: Up to 64GB Dual-channel DDR4-3200MHz Storage: Up to 2TB M.2 2280 PCIe 4.0 SSD and up to 1TB M.2 2242 SSD SATA Rear Ports: 2x HDMI 2.0, 1x USB 3.2 Gen 2 Type-A, 1x USB 2.0 Type-A, 2x USB 4 Gen 3 Type-C (supports Power Delivery), 1x RJ45, 1x DC in Front Ports: 2 x USB 3.2 Gen 2 Type-A, 1x 3.5mm front stereo headset jack Connectivity: Wi-Fi 6E, Bluetooth 5.2 Audio: 3.5mm front stereo headset jack Camera: N/A Size: 117 x 111 x 38.5 mm OS Installed: Windows 11 Pro Accessories: VESA mount included
Geekom is one of the big players in the mini PC field, and the XT12 highlights exactly why. Firstly, the small machine features an understated design with a high-quality metal surround topped with a matte white plate. It’s all incredibly small and neat and will suit any stylish office or home.
However, the internals are less discreet. They boast a powerful Intel Core 12th Gen Alder Lake i9-12900H CPU. Our review sample packs in 32GB of RAM and a 1TB ultra-fast SSD, with the option to boost this to a maximum of 64GB of RAM and 2TB of ultra-fast M.2 SSD storage. That’s not all; there’s also the option to install an additional M.2 2242 SSD SATA up to 1TB, which can be further complemented by external network or USB 4 storage options.
Out of the box, this compact machine can handle office software, multimedia, and creative apps without breaking a sweat, but where this small machine differs from some of the best mini PCs we’ve tested is the inclusion of USB 4 ports. This lets you expand on storage capacity as well as giving you the ability to link into a powerful eGPU. This means that if you are fully accessorized, you’ll essentially have a very compact and powerful machine that is a fraction of the size of most desktop machines. However, that optional eGPU will challenge desktop space.
eGPU and expansion options aside, the base unit’s overall performance is superb, even over extended periods of use when editing standard 4K video from the Sony A7 IV. The cooling system kicks in to keep things ticking over and running smoothly.
While as a standard mini PC, this machine is impressive, enabling Office, creative use, and moderate gaming, it’s when it’s plugged into an eGPU that you can really unlock its potential and extend its use.
As it stands, the XT12 Pro is without accessories and packs a great deal of power for its size and will suffice for all office applications, photo editing, and even running some of the best video editing software. If video editing gets more advanced, then the addition of an eGPU along with the ability to upgrade the RAM, main SSD, and a small additional 1TB M.2 2242 SSD SATA slot along with USB 4 expanded storage means that this Mini PC has serious potential and options for expansion.
Geekom XT Series XT12 Pro: Price & availability
(Image credit: Alastair Jennings)
The Geekom ST Series XT12 Pro is widely available in the standard configuration, which consists of a Mini PC with 32GB of RAM and a 1TB HD. The machine is available for $699 directly from the Geekom website, most electronics stores, and Amazon.com.
Geekom XT Series XT12 Pro: Design & build
(Image credit: Alastair Jennings)
Despite the small size, you can instantly tell that the Geekom XT Series XT12 Pro sits in the mid to premium range of Mini PCs. Firstly, the look of the machine is understated, with a metal surround featuring honeycomb cut-outs to enable plenty of air to flow through the system. Then, the plastic top is finished in a high-quality matte white but moulded into the ergonomic design of the casing.
That casing, with the venting and high-quality detail, all helps to ensure that the inner workings remain as cool as possible during operation and keep on top of the power of the Intel Core i9-12900H. Thankfully, unlike some other high-powered Mini PCs, Geekom has opted to go for the Intel CPU coupled with the Intel Iris Xe Graphics, which offers decent but not outstanding performance, enough for moderate gaming but definitely not to be pushed.
On the front are two Type-A USB ports, a 3.5mm headphone socket, and a power button. Around the back are the main HDMI, USB 4, USB Type-A, and DC power socket. While the layout is neat, it is quite cramped due to this Mini PC’s compact nature.
One of the big features of this small PC is the upgradability, and access to the inside is made by removing the four screws on the base of the machine. Once loosened, the bottom of the machine can be removed, and the top flipped over to reveal the RAM and SSD slots, adding a small M.2 2242 SSD up to 1TB in capacity.
The design of the XT12 Pro makes it a very powerful PC in its own right. Still, with the addition of the USB 4 ports, this also gives you the ability to make a lot more of this machine than many other Mini PCs as it firstly enables you to plug in high-speed and high-capacity external storage such as the OWC Thunderblade X8 or attach an eGPU to boost the graphics processing performance.
As a Mini PC, this is one of the smallest, but the build quality and weight highlight that this is something a little more than the usual compact computing solution.
Geekom XT Series XT12 Pro: Features
(Image credit: Alastair Jennings)
The Geekom XT12 Pro Mini PC features a powerful 12th Gen Intel Core i9-12900H processor, with 14 cores and 20 threads, making it a great choice for heavy-duty tasks such as 4K video editing and 3D modeling software. The XT12 Pro comes with 32GB of RAM as standard and supports up to 64GB of dual-channel DDR4-3200MHz RAM. Although this is the older DDR4 rather than DDR5, it should still ensure decent performance for multitasking and handling large files and applications. The XT12 Pro offers several storage expansion options beyond the 1TB M.2 PCIe 4.0 SSD that comes pre-installed. This slot can be upgraded to a 2TB M.2 PCIe 4.0 SSD and an additional 1TB M.2 SATA SSD slot for extra storage.
Display capabilities support office and creative work, with the possibility of attaching up to four 4K displays simultaneously or a single 8K display. Connectivity options include USB 4 Gen3 ports that support power delivery and external GPU connections, enhancing its use in gaming and professional video and modelling applications. The XT12 Pro also includes dual HDMI 2.0 ports and 2.5G Ethernet for high-speed networking.
The compact unibody aluminum chassis helps ensure that the XT12 Pro is not only aesthetic but also durable and resistant to scratches and fingerprints. Although it is heavier than many mini PCs at 546g, it’s still a viable comp[act alternative to the best business computers (or even the best business laptops). To ensure that everything stays cool, the XT12 Pro features the innovative IceBlast 1.0 cooling system, which employs copper pipes and a large silent fan to ensure the unit operates coolly and quietly under load.
Geekom XT Series XT12 Pro: Performance
(Image credit: Alastair Jennings)
Benchmarks
Crystal Disk Read: 5095.80MB/s Crystal Disk Write: 4406.81MB/s GeekBench CPU Single: 9925 GeekBench CPU Multi: 2300 GeekBench Compute: 14235 PC Mark: 5692 CineBench CPU Multi: 10132 CineBench CPU Single: 1714 Fire Strike Overall: 5031 Fire Strike Graphics: 5513 Fire Strike Physics: 21822 Fire Strike Combined: 1791 Time Spy Overall: 1793 Time Spy Graphics: 1573 Time Spy CPU: 8732 Wild Life: N/A Windows Experience: 8.3
The Geekom XT12 Pro mini PC delivers impressive performance through real-world tests with Microsoft Office, Adobe Creative Suite, multimedia, and some moderate gaming. From the outset, the fast boot into Windows 11 Pro sets a precedent for the use of this machine. Benchmark tests show strong results, with a PC Mark score of 5692, reflecting how the XT12 Pro handles tasks from the outset.
Checking a few easy tasks to start, streaming 4K content through Netflix, Apple, and Amazon Prime is seamless and showcases the strength of its Wi-Fi connection. Checking the disk speed, the Crystal Disk Read and Write scores are 5095.80MB/s and 4406.81MB/s, respectively, more than enough for simple multimedia playback tasks. What this transfer rate highlights is the machine’s ability to handle large files for creative applications. However, while the XT12 Pro handles Photoshop and Lightroom Classic with ease, Adobe Bridge strains under high-resolution image scrolling, revealing the limitations of the integrated Intel Iris Xe Graphics, reinforced by the GeekBench Compute score of 14235.
Video editing in DaVinci Resolve is manageable for 1080p and basic 4K projects. For more complex tasks involving RAW video, the system reaches its limits, corroborated by the Fire Strike Graphics score of 5513 and a Time Spy Overall score of 1793, indicating moderate graphical processing power. Gaming is feasible at 1080p for Red Dead Redemption II and Cyberpunk 2077, albeit with reduced settings necessary for smooth gameplay. For both video editing and gaming, connecting an eGPU can significantly enhance performance in both disciplines.
Overall, the XT12 Pro is versatile, handling a range of tasks from office work to creative projects and light to moderate gaming at lower resolutions. Its array of benchmark scores from GeekBench, CineBench, and 3D Mark highlights its capacity to balance performance across various uses, making it a suitable choice for professionals and creatives who require a compact computing solution.
Should you buy the Geekom XT Series XT12 Pro?
The Geekom XT12 Pro Mini PC offers robust performance, versatile connectivity, and strong upgrade potential, making it a great choice for professionals and creatives. Its Intel Core i9-12900H processor and dual storage options cater to demanding tasks, while its compact design does not compromise on power. With USB 4 ports for expansion and eGPU compatibility, it delivers excellent value for its price and is a scalable solution.
The Corsair One i500 isn’t necessarily the most powerful gaming PC out there, it’s not very upgradeable, and in terms of style, it’s the kind of product that will inspire some very strong opinions — including my own.
Its specs are such that it is an easy contender for the best gaming PC of 2024 just in terms of performance, and its price is absolutely in line with the kinds of gaming rigs I’ve seen running Core i9-14900K and RTX 4080 Super or RTX 4090 GPUs.
Starting at $3,599.99 / £3,499.99 (about $5,220), this isn’t a cheap gaming PC, but for what you’re getting in terms of specs, you’d normally be getting a standard mid-tower PC case, usually in black, with large RGB fans with a tempered glass side showing off even more RGB trim, and you’d still be paying nearly $3,500 or more for the privilege.
That is to say, most gaming PCs today lean so heavily on RGB to define their style, that ‘style’ isn’t really even a factor when considering which one to buy. The cases might vary, they might have a wraparound glass panel to show off the insides more fully, but the fundamental design principle of ‘show off the components’, which are lit up like a carnival, remains the same no matter what PC you buy.
The Corsair One i500, meanwhile, doesn’t even have Corsair iCue, the company’s proprietary RGB control software. It does have RGB, namely in the two trim lines that flank the case’s wooden front panel, but it’s limited compared to other gaming PCs. Instead, the Corsair One i500 uses a wooden front panel and fabric side panels to define its aesthetic, along with the aluminum case underneath that comes in either black or silver.
Depending on the case color, you’ll get a different wooden front panel (a walnut color for the black case and a pine color for the silver), and both cost the same, so you won’t have to pay a premium for one over the other. The PC also comes with a headphone hanger attachment that can fit onto either side of the case, and there are more than enough ports for whatever peripherals you have.
More than anything, this PC reminds me of the Atari 2600 from my childhood, equipped as it was with a wooden panel along the top edge like everything else was in the early 1980s. That quickly gave way to hard black plastic in later models and soon consoles and later PCs left behind natural textures for futuristic flash and forms that persist up to the present. It’s in this milieu that the Corsair One i500 feels like something dropped into the gaming PC market out of a flying Delorean. After so many years of RGB and aggressive gamer aesthetic, it’s still shocking how something as simple and retro as a wood panel on the front can feel so refreshing.
It’s not all positive, though. If there is anything that can be considered a negative with this PC, it’s its lack of easy upgradability. The small form factor case is going to limit what you can fit in it, but the GPU AIO cooler also means that any GPU upgrades in the future are not going to be as simple as dropping in a new graphics card in a few years. You can more easily upgrade the SSD and RAM, however.
But this isn’t really a gaming PC for builders or tinkerers. This is much more a gaming PC for those who want the best without messing with the cables and components, but who also want their new gaming PC to reflect their significant investment. In that, the Corsair One i500 is unmatched.
Corsair One i500: Price & availability
(Image credit: Future / John Loeffler)
How much is it? Starting at $3,599.99 / £3,499.99 (about $5,220)
When is it available? Available May 6, 2024
Where can you get it? You can get it in the US and the UK at launch, with Australia availability in June 2024.
The Corsair One i500 is available in the US and UK now, starting at $3,599.99 and £3,499.99, respectively. It will be available in Australia in June, but official pricing hasn’t been released for the APAC region yet.
Both configurations available at launch come with an Intel Core i9-1400K processor and 2TB NVMe storage, and the base configuration comes with an Nvidia RTX 4080 Super and 32GB DDR5 RAM, while the max configuration comes with an Nvidia RTX 4090 and 64GB DDR5 RAM for $4,699.99 / £4,699.99.
This is more expensive than something like the current Alienware Aurora R16, which maxes out at an Intel Core i9-14900KF, RTX 4090, 64GB DDR5 RAM, and 2TB PCIe NVMe storage for $4,049.99 / £3,919. In Australia, the Aurora R16 maxes out at AU$5,772.80 for an Intel Core i9-14900KF, an Nvidia RTX 4080 Super, 64GB DDR5 RAM, and 2TB storage.
Other gaming PCs like the Acer Predator Orion 7000 and HP Omen 40L will sell for roughly the same as the Aurora R16, so the Corsair One i500 is going to be more expensive than the competition, but its competition also features much of the same style as every other gaming PC you’ve seen in a Best Buy or Curry’s for the past decade. Whether the Corsair One i500’s style is worth the extra premium will be up to you, but after all the gaming PCs I’ve reviewed over the years, I believe it’s absolutely worth the premium.
Corsair One i500: Specs
(Image credit: Future / John Loeffler)
Up to an RTX 4090 with AIO liquid cooling
Not easily upgradable
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Corsair One i500 Specs
Header Cell – Column 0
Base configuration
Max configuration
Price
$3,599.99 / £3,499.99 (about AU$5,220)
$4,699.99 / £4,699.99 / $4,AU$5,772.80
CPU
Intel Core i9-14900K
Intel Core i9-14900K
GPU
Nvidia RTX 4080 Super
Nvidia RTX 4090
Memory
32Gb DDR5
64GB DDR5
Storage
2TB PCIe NVMe SSD
2TB PCIe NVMe SSD
Corsair One i500: Design
(Image credit: Future / John Loeffler)
Gorgeous small form-factor case
Ample cooling fans
Fabric side panels might get grimey over time
(Image credit: Future / John Loeffler)
The Corsair One i500’s biggest appeal is its style.
I haven’t seen a wood-paneled gaming device since the Atari 2600, and that device was released when I was a toddler. That’s been enough time, I think, for a wood-paneled device to be cool again, and given the state of PC gaming hardware for the past several years, seeing something new is more than just refreshing.
I can’t say that the Corsair One i500 will transform PC gaming culture to move beyond its decade-old Decepticon-inspired PC cases with over-the-top RGB lighting, but I hope it inspires a new paradigm for what companies can do with a gaming PC. The market desperately needs it.
In terms of specific design notes, this is technically a small form factor gaming PC, though it is bigger than something like the Asus ROG G22CH. Taller than it is wide or deep, this is more like a gaming console than a traditional gaming PC. If you’ve been looking for a living room PC, this will fit right in with a living room aesthetic.
(Image credit: Future / John Loeffler)
If you spend this much money on a gaming PC, you should hopefully be able to upgrade to an Nvidia 5000 series graphics card in a few years, but the small form factor case is going to limit what size GPU you can fit.
On top of that, the graphics card in this case is unshrouded, relying on an AIO GPU cooler to manage heat dissipation. You could obviously take all of the fans and heatsink off of any future graphics card you buy and fit it into this PC, but understandably, this is a fairly advanced modification for a GPU.
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(Image credit: Future / John Loeffler)
(Image credit: Future / John Loeffler)
(Image credit: Future / John Loeffler)
(Image credit: Future / John Loeffler)
(Image credit: Future / John Loeffler)
(Image credit: Future / John Loeffler)
On top of the internals, there are a number of distinct design features that you won’t really find anywhere else.
First, the side panels are covered in a soft, breathable fabric. This creates a very cool look to the PC, but fabric in tech devices tend to discolor and gunk up over time, especially if they cover a fan blowing dust out of a PC case.
Still, the fabric panels are a beautiful design touch. Another very cool feature is the tap-to-activate light on the backside of the case, which you can activate to light up the back ports while you’re plugging in peripherals and other cables. It’s a small touch, but given that the backside of a gaming PC can often be cast in shadow, having an easy way to illuminate the area in question is incredibly useful.
Taken all together, the Corsair One i500 is the coolest prebuilt gaming PC I’ve ever used, and it’s all the more impressive given how far it stretches past the ‘accepted’ gamer aesthetic into something new. I’m sure a lot of people won’t like the design of this PC, but I don’t care. The fact that Corsair took the risk to make a dramatically different kind of PC earns five stars in my book.
Corsair One i500: Performance
Fantastic gaming 4K performance
You can probably get the same kind of performance for cheaper if you don’t mind less appealing aesthetics
Now, as good as the Corsair One i500 looks, this is a gaming PC, so its performance matters as much as — if not more than — its aesthetics. In this regard, you won’t be disappointed with this PC.
Its starting GPU, the RTX 4080 Super, is one of the best 4K graphics cards on the market, second only to the Nvidia RTX 4090, which is an optional upgrade for the Corsair One i500. So no matter which GPU you get, you’ll be able to get 4K@60FPS on just about any title on the market, especially if you enable Nvidia’s DLSS 3 in games like Cyberpunk 2077 and any game that features ray tracing.
The RTX 4090, however, is the only graphics card I’ve ever tested that can get you close to 60 FPS in Cyberpunk 2077 with ray tracing maxed out without upscaling, so if you’re looking to play 4K at native resolution, you do at least have the option of going with the RTX 4090.
Given the hardware here, this is also a very competent creative performer, so those who like to get some work done will like what’s on offer here, but I wouldn’t call this the best workstation PC going. This is a gaming PC through and through, and it’s here that this PC excels.
Should you buy the Corsair One i500?
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Corsair One i500 Scorecard
Category
Verdict
Score
Value
While this isn’t a cheap gaming PC, compared to similarly speced competitiors, the price is pretty decent for such a high-end gaming PC.
★★★★☆
Specs
While you can get some of the best specs possible right now, upgradeability is much more limited than with other gaming PCs. You still get a water cooled GPU, which is pretty awesome.
★★★★★
Design
OK, so I think this is a stunningly gorgeous gaming PC that takes risks and does something radically different. You might not like its aesthetics, but it gets full marks for bravery even if some might hate how it looks.
★★★★★
Performance
The RTX 4080 Super model I tested is a fantastic performer, but opting for the RTX 4090 model will get you the best of the best performance on the market.
★★★★★
Total
Capable of keeping up with the most powerful gaming PCs on the market with an undeniable style, this is easily one of a handful
