Reviews
In-depth, scored reviews to help you pick the right product.
Lenovo Yoga 9i 14 Gen 9
The Lenovo Yoga 9i 14 Gen 9 represents a refined evolution of the premium 2-in-1 category, combining Intel Core Ultra 7 155H processing power with a breathtaking OLED display and Bowers \& Wilkins quad speaker system. Weighing just 2.9 pounds with a slim aluminum chassis, this convertible targets professionals seeking portable productivity without sacrificing audiovisual quality. The 14-inch OLED touchscreen delivers 136 percent DCI-P3 coverage and 120Hz refresh capability, while the four speaker array creates cinema-quality sound rarely found in ultraportables. However, the Gen 9 model retreats from its predecessor's battery performance, managing only 7.4 hours in standardized testing compared to the Gen 8's 10-hour endurance. This backward step in battery life creates tension between the laptop's exceptional build quality and real-world usability for extended mobile work sessions.[^1][^2][^3]
LG C5 OLED
The LG C5 OLED represents a meaningful step forward for LG's most popular OLED series, delivering noticeably improved brightness over its predecessor while maintaining the perfect blacks and vibrant colors that define OLED technology. Powered by the α9 AI Processor 4K Gen8, this television excels in dark room viewing with its infinite contrast ratio and impresses with significantly enhanced SDR and HDR brightness that makes it more viable in well-lit spaces. Four full-bandwidth HDMI 2.1 ports support 4K/144Hz gaming with VRR and ALLM, cementing its position as a top choice for console and PC gamers. While it doesn't match the peak brightness of mini-LED rivals or higher-end QD-OLED panels, the C5 strikes an appealing balance between performance and value for viewers who prioritize cinematic picture quality and gaming versatility.[^1_3][^1_2][^1_4][^1_5][^1_1]
Sony BRAVIA 8 II
The Sony BRAVIA 8 II represents Sony's 2025 QD-OLED offering, positioned between the carried-over BRAVIA 8 and the flagship BRAVIA 9. This television utilizes Samsung's fourth-generation QD-OLED panel paired with Sony's upgraded Cognitive Processor XR, delivering what multiple reviewers describe as exceptionally refined, cinematic picture quality that excels straight out of the box. The BRAVIA 8 II stands out for its nuanced color accuracy, superior shadow detail handling, and organic three-dimensional image depth that captures the aesthetic intent of filmmakers more completely than most competitors. However, the television faces criticism for brightness levels that fall noticeably short of rivals like the Samsung S95F and LG G5, despite using the same QD-OLED panel technology. The built-in Acoustic Surface Audio+ system turns the entire screen into a speaker, delivering surprisingly robust sound that positions this among the best-sounding televisions available without external audio. Available in 55-inch and 65-inch sizes, the BRAVIA 8 II targets enthusiasts who prioritize picture refinement and accuracy over peak brightness performance.[^1][^2][^3][^4][^5][^6]
Asus ProArt PZ13
The ASUS ProArt PZ13 positions itself as a direct competitor to Microsoft's Surface Pro 11, delivering a 13.3-inch OLED touchscreen, included keyboard cover, and impressive battery performance at a substantially lower entry point. Running on the Snapdragon X Plus processor, this detachable 2-in-1 targets photographers, illustrators, and content creators who prioritize portability and display quality over raw processing power. The device achieves full-day battery life while maintaining color accuracy certified to PANTONE standards, making it suitable for fieldwork and travel. However, the ARM architecture introduces compatibility constraints with certain professional applications, and the tablet form factor proves too heavy for extended handheld use. The included keyboard and kickstand cover add genuine value but lack the rigidity of traditional laptop hinges, creating usability challenges on uneven surfaces.[^1][^2][^3][^4][^5][^6][^7][^8][^9]
Lenovo IdeaPad Slim 5
The Lenovo IdeaPad Slim 5 positions itself as a capable mid-range productivity laptop that prioritizes practicality over premium features. Available in multiple configurations with Intel and AMD processors, the series delivers consistent performance for everyday computing tasks while maintaining a professional aesthetic. The laptop stands out for its surprisingly high-quality keyboard and comfortable typing experience, often rivaling more expensive alternatives. However, cost-cutting measures appear in display brightness, connectivity options, and the decision to solder RAM, limiting upgradeability. For users seeking a reliable workhorse for office productivity, multitasking, and light creative work at a competitive price point, the IdeaPad Slim 5 represents solid value, though it won't satisfy those demanding premium build quality or extensive expansion capabilities.[^1][^2][^3][^4][^5]
HP OmniBook X Flip 16
The HP OmniBook X Flip 16 presents a compelling case for large-screen convertibles with its stunning 3K OLED touchscreen, refined minimalist design, and solid build quality. However, the Intel Lunar Lake-powered variant suffers from inconsistent performance that ranges from smooth productivity to frustrating slowdowns, particularly on battery power. The device excels as a stationary workstation where its gorgeous 16-inch display shines, but falls short of expectations for mobile professionals who need reliable performance away from power outlets. At approximately 4.15 pounds with a 360-degree hinge, it offers versatility for various usage modes including tablet and tent configurations, though its size and weight make extended handheld use impractical. The laptop targets consumers and business users seeking an affordable entry into premium convertibles, but curious design choices like single-sided USB-C placement and decorative speaker grilles undermine its otherwise solid execution.[^1][^2][^3][^4]
TCL S551G (S5 Series)
The TCL S551G represents the manufacturer's most advanced entry-level television in its 2024 lineup, bridging the gap between basic viewing needs and modern gaming features. As TCL's flagship S Class model, it introduces capabilities typically reserved for higher-tier sets, including variable refresh rate technology and comprehensive HDR format support. This Google TV-powered display targets budget-conscious consumers who prioritize smart features and gaming compatibility over premium picture performance. Available in sizes from 43 to 85 inches, the S551G trades advanced panel technology for affordability, delivering adequate performance in controlled lighting environments while struggling with brightness and contrast limitations that affect both SDR and HDR content.[^1]
QN90D Neo QLED 4K TV
The Samsung QN90D represents a significant step forward in the Neo QLED lineup, delivering exceptional HDR performance with peak brightness reaching over 2,000 nits and excellent local dimming control. This upper mid-range 4K television excels in bright room viewing while maintaining deep blacks in dark environments, making it versatile for varied lighting conditions. Powered by Samsung's NQ4 AI Gen2 processor and equipped with four HDMI 2.1 ports supporting up to 144Hz refresh rates, the QN90D targets enthusiasts who demand high performance for both content consumption and gaming. Despite its impressive technical capabilities, the television faces criticism for omitting Dolby Vision support and an ATSC 3.0 tuner, features increasingly expected at this price point. The TV also exhibits noticeable brightness reduction when switching to Game Mode and suffers from slower pixel response times compared to competing models. Available in seven sizes ranging from 43 to 98 inches, the QN90D offers flexibility for different room configurations, though consumers should weigh its premium positioning against more affordable alternatives that deliver comparable or superior performance in specific areas.[^1][^2]
ASUS ROG Zephyrus G16
The ASUS ROG Zephyrus G16 represents a compelling compromise for gamers who value portability alongside performance. This ultra-slim 16-inch gaming laptop combines premium aluminum construction with high-end components including Intel Core Ultra 9 or AMD Ryzen AI 9 processors and NVIDIA RTX 40-series GPUs, all housed in a chassis measuring just 1.49 cm thick. The standout 2.5K OLED display with 240Hz refresh rate and Dolby Vision HDR delivers stunning visuals that rival premium ultrabooks. However, the pursuit of slimness comes with trade-offs: the laptop's 115W TDP limitation means it cannot sustain the same performance levels as thicker gaming laptops with higher power budgets. The exceptional six-speaker audio system and lightweight design make it ideal for professionals and students who need gaming capability without sacrificing portability.[^1][^2][^3][^4][^5][^6]