The OnePlus 13 marks another impressive flagship entry for the brand, blending premium hardware with thoughtful software touches. Having used this phone for over two months, coming from a Pixel 9 Pro, I’ve gotten a solid feel for how it performs in real-world use — and spoiler alert: it’s very good.
Design & Build Quality
The OnePlus 13 immediately feels like a premium device. It’s slightly larger than the Pixel 9 Pro, which I used before this, and while it might be a bit big for smaller hands (mine included), the overall design is striking and comfortable to hold. What really delighted me was that the phone came with a case in OnePlus’ iconic Sandstone finish — a nostalgic throwback that adds excellent grip and style (I really wish more phones had this).
The materials used are top-notch, with a blue back and a distinct silver camera housing that makes it stand out (though I mostly use it with the included case).
Performance
Performance is buttery smooth. Whether I’m flipping through apps, handling multitasking, or even using more demanding features like split-screen and floating windows, the phone doesn’t break a sweat. I haven’t done any heavy gaming, but I haven’t encountered any stutters or lags in my day-to-day use.
Thermal management is also impressive. Even after long sessions of browsing or media streaming, the device stays cool.
Battery Life
Battery life has been excellent. I typically charge overnight and never come close to fully draining the battery in a single day. Most evenings, I still have nearly 50% left.
As for charging — wow. OnePlus’ proprietary wireless charging is no joke. It supports 50W wireless charging with the included magnetic charger. I normally prefer standard Qi pads for convenience, and I think if I need to use a special charger, I may as well plug in a cable. Still, 50W wireless charging is nothing short of impressive.
The 50w wireless charging puck that is delivered with the phone is magnetic (think Magsafe). NOTE: It is not the phone that has the attachment magnets for the charger, it is the case.
EDIT (2025-04-26) After switching back to my Pixel 9 Pro (which, when I was using it last, I did not think was a bad battery experience), I have noticed that when I am travelling and and do not have access to charging, the OnePlus 13 has much better battery life where I don’t have to charge during the day.
Camera System
This is where the OnePlus 13 surprised me most. The Hasselblad-branded camera system delivers truly excellent results, even in less-than-ideal conditions.
The night shots are sharp, well-exposed, and rich in detail, while the daytime performance is just as solid. The camera app is fast to launch (just double-press the power button), and shooting is intuitive and responsive.
I also took some macro photos… I the camera does a great job even on close-ups giving you a clear and crisp photo.
Software & Features
Running OxygenOS, the phone keeps close to the stock Android experience — which I appreciate as a longtime Pixel user. That said, OnePlus adds a few clever enhancements. Two in particular stand out:
Side-by-side app windows and floating windows, made even more powerful by the “Open Canvas” feature, which lets you adjust window ratios.
Notification pop-ups reminiscent of Apple’s Dynamic Island, giving a nice touch of interactivity.
Everything feels stable and refined. I’ve had no bugs and have received monthly updates so far.
Connectivity & Extras
Both the in-display fingerprint sensor and face unlock are fast and reliable — a key factor for me. 5G, Wi-Fi, and Bluetooth performance have all been rock solid.
One small feature I genuinely love is the OnePlus Mute Switch. Even though I rarely use it (my phone is always on silent), it’s a tactile little touch that adds charm and utility.
Value & Verdict
At 10,500 SEK for the 12GB model, the OnePlus 13 isn’t a budget device, but it justifies its price tag. You’re getting great performance, excellent battery life, a stellar camera, and thoughtful software additions in a well-built package.
What I love most: The fast, smooth experience, superb camera, and yes — that Sandstone case.
Room for improvement? A slightly smaller form factor would be easier to handle.
Final Verdict: Highly Recommended
If you’re looking for a high-end Android phone that rivals the best from Google and Samsung while offering its own flavor, the OnePlus 13 is absolutely worth considering.
When it comes to reviewing phones in 2025, the reality is that almost all phones you’ll find in stores today land on a scale from “really good for day-to-day use” to “amazing.” Gone are the days of phones (especially cheap Android phones) that are so slow with such poor cameras that they’re practically unusable. If you don’t have very specific needs (great camera, gaming, lots of storage), you’ll likely be perfectly happy with almost any modern smartphone.
My first impressions of the Google Pixel 9 Pro center on Google’s evident effort to refine the phone’s design. Most notable are the sharper edges and completely redesigned camera bump. Gone is the iconic “visor” that had been the recognizable design feature of the Pixel line since version 6, replaced by a more rounded camera housing with sharper corners. While this still stands out from other manufacturers’ design languages, I found myself missing the distinctive visor that made Pixels immediately identifiable.
The Size Factor
The trend in recent years has been that the best phones with the highest specs are also the largest phones—a reality many of us have reluctantly accepted. Having used the Google Pixel 8 Pro as my daily driver for the past year, I’ve become accustomed to its larger footprint.
This year, Google has taken a different approach with the Pixel 9 Pro, which features a more manageable 6.3″ screen. For those who still prefer larger devices, Google offers the Pixel 9 Pro XL with a 6.8″ display and correspondingly larger battery. The core specifications remain identical between the two models, with size being the primary differentiator.
This shift gives consumers more choice and acknowledges that flagship features shouldn’t be restricted to only the largest form factors. The standard Pixel 9 Pro’s more compact dimensions make it noticeably more comfortable to hold and use one-handed—a welcome change in the premium smartphone segment.
Design & Build Quality
The Pixel 9 Pro takes a departure from Google’s iconic “visor” camera design, adopting a more contemporary aesthetic with square edges that give it a sleeker appearance. While the new camera housing might take some adjustment for long-time Pixel users, it grows on you quickly. Most users will likely use a case anyway, which diminishes the visual impact of this design change.
One of the most notable improvements is the new size option. The standard Pixel 9 Pro now comes in a smaller form factor (matching the regular Pixel 9), while those preferring larger devices can opt for the Pixel 9 Pro XL, which maintains dimensions similar to the previous Pixel 8 Pro. The compact size of the regular Pro model feels excellent in hand, offering flagship features without requiring pocket-stretching dimensions.
Android Experience
In 2023, when I reviewed the Pixel 8 Pro, it came with a preview of Android 14, allowing users to test most functionality even before the OS was fully finalized. The release of Pixel 9 presents a more complicated situation, as Android 15 was delayed and is slated for release in mid-October. This timing creates a review dilemma: should one evaluate the phone as it currently exists, or wait for the OS that will define much of its experience?
This delayed OS release puts the Pixel 9 Pro in an unusual position, as many of the AI features and optimizations Google has promoted are tied to the Android 15 update. I opted for waiting a while with review, giving me more time to test out the phone as a daily driver.
Performance
Powered by Google’s new Tensor G4 processor, the Pixel 9 Pro delivers impressive responsiveness across everyday tasks. The combination of this upgraded chipset with the high refresh rate display creates a consistently snappy experience when navigating the interface, switching between apps, or performing routine functions.
The Tensor G4 appears to have addressed some of the thermal and efficiency concerns of previous generations, though I haven’t pushed it to extremes with extended gaming sessions or lengthy 4K video recording.
Display
The Pixel 9 Pro’s display is a standout feature, offering exceptional brightness that ensures visibility even in direct sunlight. Color reproduction appears accurate and vibrant, making it excellent for photo editing, watching videos, and general use. The high refresh rate further enhances the premium feel by providing smooth scrolling and animations.
Camera System
Building on the already impressive foundation of the Pixel 8 Pro’s cameras, the Pixel 9 Pro takes mobile photography to new heights. In real-world testing during vacation, it captured stunning photos in various conditions:
Daylight photography is exceptional, with impressive dynamic range and detail
Night mode continues to be a Pixel strength, delivering remarkable low-light results
The versatile lens array offers creative flexibility without compromising quality
Battery Life
Despite some mixed reports from other reviewers, my experience with the Pixel 9 Pro’s battery has been consistently positive. The device easily lasts a full day of normal use, even with continuous music and podcast streaming. This all-day endurance comes without enabling power-saving features or adjusting usage habits.
Software & AI Features
Running the latest version of Android, the Pixel 9 Pro showcases Google’s vision for smartphone software. The headline feature is the deeper integration of Gemini AI throughout the system, though the experience varies by region and has notable limitations:
Many AI features are still pending release in the EU
The “Add Me” camera feature shows promise but currently feels somewhat unreliable
Magic Editor can impressively add AI-generated objects to images, though it remains more of a novelty than an essential tool
One significant drawback I’ve found is that Gemini is practically useless if it can’t work on the lock screen with my headsets when I’m out walking or running. This limitation is something that Google has started fixing. The whole point of having AI assistance on a mobile device is being able to take notes and perform tasks hands-free, especially during activities where handling the phone is impractical or unsafe. This limitation significantly undermines one of the phone’s key selling points.
With so much of Google’s marketing focused on AI capabilities that will arrive with future updates, reviewing the current state of the Pixel 9 Pro feels somewhat incomplete—many of its promised features simply aren’t available yet.
Connectivity
In urban environments like Stockholm, the device maintains strong cellular connectivity. Bluetooth performance has shown occasional minor glitches, though these could potentially be attributed to connected accessories rather than the phone itself.
Long-term Value
With Google’s commitment to 7 years of software updates, the Pixel 9 Pro represents a sound long-term investment. This extended support timeline, combined with Google’s control over both hardware and software integration, creates a compelling value proposition compared to other Android flagships.
Conclusion
The Google Pixel 9 Pro successfully refines the Pixel formula in a more compact form factor. Its exceptional camera system, strong performance, and all-day battery life make it a standout option in the premium smartphone segment. While the AI features don’t yet fully deliver on their promise (particularly in Europe), the phone’s core functionality excels in everyday use. However, this also comes at a price, the Pixel 9 Pro is not a cheap phone. The chepest price for the regular Pixel 9 starts right now at 7 800 SEK while the cheapest Pixel 9 Pro is 9 200 SEK and the XL is starting at 10 300.
For those seeking a premium Android experience with industry-leading photography capabilities and long-term software support, the Pixel 9 Pro deserves serious consideration.
Pros:
Excellent camera system that performs well in all lighting conditions
Responsive performance from the Tensor G4 processor
Bright, high-quality display ideal for outdoor use
Comfortable, compact design
All-day battery life
7 years of software updates
Cons:
Regional limitations on AI features
Some AI capabilities still feel more like novelties than essential tools
Departure from iconic Pixel camera design may disappoint some fans
If you want to buy a watch in 2024, there are a couple of different directions you can take. The most modern route is to buy an Apple Watch (if you are in the ecosystem or a WearOS watch if you are in the Android world). There are also other cheaper smart watches, like a Xiaomi, Huawei or any of the smaller brands which are available at a much lower price point. On the other end of the scale there is the watches you buy for their looks. Either you are a retro nerd and go with a traditional Casio digital legacy watch or you buy a more traditional “timepiece” like a Rolex, Breitling, Tag Heuer or any of the other luxury watch brands. The you can take the fitness and training route and buy a watch that is more of a utility that you use for training and workouts and that is packed with sensors that tells you how you are performing, your vitals and when you should rest. I know people who want it all… training, smarts and good looks… who doesn’t :-). In the watch space this is not possible… or is it?
For a couple of weeks now I have been testing the Withings ScanWatch 2, which looks like a traditional analog watch, but it is also packed with a lot of smart functionality for connection to your watch and working out.
Design and Build Quality: The ScanWatch 2
The watch I got sent from Withings was the ScanWatch 2, which is a 37 mm traditional analog. It is a really nice looking, discrete, watch. Someone described it as a watch “my grandfather would wear”. It is not flashy, it is just a basic black watch with a basic black band. Then you look at the watch face, you can see two circles, one that is just black at the top and one that has a single hand at the bottom. The dial one is for showing your steps progress, meaning that a full revolution means that you have achieved your step goal.
The top circle is a display which is turns on when you either click the crown or when your watch has a notification for you. I really like this setup because it means that the ScanWatch 2 is a very distraction free, smart watch experience. The bottom circle has one analog hand that shows you the progress towards your step goal. Even this is a step towards giving you a more stress free experience of the watch and not letting you focus on the actual numbers of your step count but instead only showing you if you are on the right track. The watch is water resistant and has a rating of 5 ATM which means that it is water resistant down to 50 meters.
Models and Pricing
The Withings ScanWatch 2 lineup offers several options to suit different preferences and budgets:
ScanWatch 2 (38mm or 42mm): Starting at $349.95/3190 SEK Available in classic black or silver finishes
ScanWatch Nova (42mm): Starting at $599.95/6700 SEK Features a more premium design with traditional diving watch aesthetics
ScanWatch Nova Brilliant: Similar pricing to the Nova but with alternative design aesthetics
ScanWatch Light: Entry-level option at $249/2500 SEK
Note: Lacks some features including elevation tracking, temperature sensor, atrial fibrillation detection, and blood oxygen monitoring
This review focuses on the standard ScanWatch 2 38mm model, though most features discussed apply across the entire range except where noted.
Battery Life and Charging
One of the ScanWatch 2’s strongest selling points is its exceptional battery life. Unlike traditional smartwatches that require daily charging, the ScanWatch 2 can last up to 30 days on a single charge with normal use. This long battery life is made possible by the hybrid design – the traditional analog display requires minimal power, while the small OLED screen only activates when needed. When you do need to charge, it takes approximately 2 hours to reach full battery using the included magnetic charging puck. The watch will give you a low battery warning when you have about 3 days of use remaining, giving you plenty of time to plan for a recharge. Keep in mind that heavy use of features like continuous heart rate monitoring, GPS tracking for workouts, and frequent ECG measurements will impact battery life. Even with all features enabled, you can still expect about 20 days between charges – significantly better than most smartwatches.
Health Features: More Than Just Step Counting
While the watch’s classic design might suggest simplicity, the ScanWatch 2’s true strength lies in its comprehensive health monitoring capabilities. The watch includes several advanced sensors that work together to provide a detailed picture of your health:
Heart Rate Monitoring: The watch provides 24/7 continuous heart rate tracking, with the ability to alert you to irregularities and unusually high or low readings. The PPG sensor offers improved accuracy over the previous generation, particularly during workouts.
ECG (Electrocardiogram): On-demand ECG readings can be taken in just 30 seconds, helping detect signs of atrial fibrillation. The process is straightforward – simply sit still and place your finger on the watch bezel when prompted.
Blood Oxygen (SpO2) Monitoring: The watch can measure your blood oxygen levels both on-demand and automatically during sleep, helping identify potential breathing disturbances. This feature is particularly useful for those interested in sleep quality and high-altitude activities.
Temperature Sensor: New to the ScanWatch 2 is a temperature sensor that tracks your body temperature variations throughout the day and night. This can help identify potential fever, stress, or changes in your menstrual cycle.
Sleep Tracking: The watch offers detailed sleep analysis, including sleep stages (light, deep, and REM), breathing disturbances, and a sleep score. The small display shows your previous night’s sleep score each morning, making it easy to track your sleep quality trends.
Activity Tracking: Beyond basic step counting, the watch can automatically detect and track over 40 different activities. The discrete analog dial showing progress is complemented by more detailed metrics in the app, including distance, pace, and calories burned.
What sets the ScanWatch 2 apart from other health-focused smartwatches is its approach to data presentation. Instead of bombarding you with constant updates and notifications, it quietly collects data in the background, allowing you to review it when convenient through the Withings app. This “measure but don’t stress” philosophy makes it particularly appealing for those who want comprehensive health tracking without the anxiety that can come from constant health metric updates.
The sensors’ accuracy appears to be on par with medical-grade devices for many measurements, though Withings is careful to note that the watch is not a medical device. During my testing, I found the heart rate measurements to be consistent with my chest strap heart rate monitor, and the sleep tracking aligned well with my subjective experience of sleep quality.
Smart Features: Balancing Notifications and Distraction
Beyond health tracking, the ScanWatch 2 offers essential smart features that enhance its daily usability while maintaining its minimalist approach.
A long time ago when I looked to a watch, long before the era of the smartwatches I wanted an analog watch, but one of the features I was really looking for was to have an alarm on the watch… This was next to impossible. There were some niche watch brands that had this but they were really expensive. The option of having my watch wake me up in the morning, without waking my spouse, next to me in bed or having the watch remind me of something, even when I am not close to my phone is one of the best features of a smart watch, in my opinion. Also being able to get my most notifications on the from my phone to my watch means that I can have my watch set to silent all day and not having to worry about missing calls from the family or some other urgent thing.
While the Withings watches give you notifications, the little screen (approx. 15 mm in diameter and round) is small enough that it is “almost useless” to read on, but big enough to “get an understanding of what is happening” and that is a good thing. It makes you choose if you need to pick up your phone without at the same time allows you not to miss an important reminder or message. There is something to be said for not having a too rich experience that might take you out of the moment.
The Withings Ecosystem: A Holistic Approach to Health
The ScanWatch 2 doesn’t exist in isolation – it’s part of Withings’ broader vision for connected health monitoring which all comes together in the Withings App (I have used it on Android). Scales that measure body fat percentage, diagnose you heart health as well as weight. Blood pressure monitors and thermometers that gives you a diagnose of how you are. Sleep sensors that you put, under the mattress in you bed, to more closely monitor your sleep quality. In short, they are a company that has focused on health for a long time. The watches are no exception. All the newest watch gives you Electrocardiogram (ECG), a blood oximeter, temperature, sleep monitoring, activity tracking, step counting and heart rate monitoring. All these sensor reading is available on your phone in the Withings app together with your other Withing gear for a holistic view of your health. On top of that, a thing that the Withings app does very well is that it teaches you how to use your watch and you other Withings gear to its full potential. It also provides you with articles on everything from how you should interpret the sensor values to the importance of physical activity to how to the importance of having a bedtime routine. This really helps not tech people and non workout fanatics to get to a better health, which I really like.
A great thing with the Withings ecosystem is that it is not only a walled garden, it also integrates with Apple Health in the iOS ecosystem and Googles Health Connect. This ensures that you health data is not locked into Withings apps, in theory. The app is very user friendly. One nice touch is that it challenges the user to learn new things about the watch every day for you to be able to get the most out of your investment.
Personal Reflections: Living with the ScanWatch 2
After spending time with this hybrid smartwatch, I’ve gained some insights about how it fits into both the smartwatch landscape and daily life. Personally I have gotten really used to the smartwatch lifestyle and I have also grown dependent on the apps available on my WearOS watch but if I am honest, I think I would definitely benefit from a less noisy day-to-day life with fewer notifications and less distractions. Also the Samsung Galaxy Watch 5 Pro that I use today is not what you would call a stylish (it is 45mm in diameter and somewhere between 10 – 15 mm thick depending on how you measure). Having a watch that I can wear with a suit or a shirt at a party that (1) looks great and (2) fits under my short cuff would be great and if I were able to seamlessly switch between a more traditional watch, a smart watch and maybe a dedicated fitness watch seamlessly would be the ideal situation. This brings me to the ecosystem discussion.
I am a big proponent for interoperability… being able to choose a watch (or many) regardless of which phone you use or which fitness app you use would be the dream. If I also would be able to compete with my friends and family in fitness challenges and eventually when I find a new (aka better) app to use or if the app I have chosen no longer is developed and I am forced to change and at that point am able to move all my fitness data over to a new provider, that would be utopia. (ok… I will step down from my soapbox now). Unfortunately the interoperability promise of health connect is not really there yet. I am using the Withings Watch, together with a WearOS watch (silly, I know), a Pixel 9 Pro and a Fitbit Aria Scale. I also have a Polar Watch for running. In an ideal world (yes, I know I am naive) these devices will all be able to communicate with each other seamlessly. Then there is Strava… who has decided to not talk to the Google Health Connect API and also in 2024 said that they will be closing down all external APIs. I personally think that being able to access my own health data from any device in any ecosystem should be obvious as well as being able to move it anywhere (I will step down from my soapbox now.
If I were to choose a Withings watch as my daily driver (or as a watch that I use on certain occasions) I would probably go for the ScanWatch Nova since I like the looks of it and I also prefer a bigger size watch. Another great feature of the Withings watches is that they are compatible with standard watch bands. Depending of the watch model you can use any band with a width of 18 or 20 mm.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
Multiple different beautiful designs
Amazing Battery Life
A very moderate smart watch experience
Standard bands
Accurate sensors
Water resistant
Cons
No smart watch interactions (which might be a good thing)
Premium features require a subscription
No music control on watch
Final Verdict: Who Should Buy the ScanWatch 2?
After examining all aspects of this hybrid timepiece, let’s discuss who would benefit most from this unique combination of traditional design and modern technology.
So, who should buy the Withings watch?
Style-conscious professionals who want subtle smart features
Health-focused individuals who prefer traditional watch aesthetics
Users looking to reduce digital distractions
People already invested in the Withings ecosystem
If you want a good looking watch with a focus on fitness and style, the Withings line up is a great option. Especially if you are serious about measuring other kinds of health such as blood pressure, heart health and temperature… Withings has also announced a couple of new gadgets on their homepage that shows promise. Also a fitness watch that does not stress you out and pressures you into delivering on your health goals every day, is probably a good thing is I am honest 🙂
I listen alot (I mean alot!) to tech podcasts. About 6 month ago I heard alot about something called TCL NXTPAPER. TCL was not a large brand in Sweden and that meant that they were not really on my radar. Hearing all the praise the screens got, I reaches out to TCL here in Sweden and asked if I could possibly borrow a device and test the screens. They sent me the TCL NXTPAPER 14 (a large format tablet) and the TCL NXTPAPER 50 Pro which is a smartphone.
To give you some context for the test, I am a big fan of e-ink for reading. I have had multiple Amazon Kindles, two Storytel Readers (a Swedish book service that for a while had their own reader), an Onyx Boox Note Air 2 and the latest addition to the “collection” was that I bought a Boox Palma (a phone sized reading device without legacy phone functionality) this summer. The main reason for this was that I wanted a very portable device for reading and this is where the NXTPAPER devices comes in. I’ve found this display technology offers a unique middle ground between conventional screens and e-ink displays and it also means that if it can live up to e-ink standard (or at least close to it) it would mean that I would not have to carry two devices, but still have the better reading experience.
The Matte Revolution
The most immediately noticeable feature of NxtPaper is its matte display finish. Unlike the glossy screens that dominate the market today, this matte surface significantly reduces glare and reflections. The anti-glare properties make it much more comfortable to use in various lighting conditions, and the absence of fingerprint smudges is a welcome bonus. This design choice feels more natural and less straining on the eyes during extended use.
Black and White Mode: A Game-Changer
One of the standout features is the black and white mode. While it doesn’t quite match the paper-like quality of dedicated e-ink displays, it provides a remarkably comfortable reading experience. The grayscale presentation is easy on the eyes, making it ideal for extended reading sessions. This feature bridges the gap between traditional tablets and e-readers, potentially eliminating the need to carry separate devices for different purposes.
Comparison with E-ink
While NxtPaper doesn’t fully replicate the eye-friendly characteristics of e-ink displays, it offers a compelling compromise. Here’s what sets it apart:
Faster refresh rates than e-ink, allowing for smooth scrolling and video playback
Better color reproduction when needed
More versatile use cases, from reading to multimedia consumption
No ghosting issues that are common with e-ink displays
The devices
Here is a short summary of the specs for the two devices and what is was like using it
TCL NXTPAPER 14
The NXTPAPER 14 represents TCL’s venture into larger-format devices with this innovative display technology.
Key Specifications:
Display: 14-inch 2.8K (2880 x 1800) NXTPAPER display
Processor: MediaTek Kompanio 1050 processor
Memory: Up to 12GB RAM
Storage: Up to 256GB
Battery: 10000mAh (!!)
Operating System: Android 14
Connectivity: Wi-Fi 6, Optional 4G LTE
The larger 14-inch form factor makes this device particularly suitable for productivity tasks and content consumption. The high resolution ensures crisp text display, making it excellent for document work and reading. This device is probably mostly used as a laptop replacement tablet together with a keyboard (competing with the lagger iPad Pros). It was delivered with an active stylus which is charged with USB-C. One of the coolest features of the tablet is that it comes preloaded with a software that makes it a casting target, which means that it can be used as a secondary display for a Windows laptop. The price in Sweden is around 5000 SEK which makes it a really nice deal.
TCL NXTPAPER 50 Pro
As a tablet offering, the NXTPAPER 50 Pro brings the eye-friendly technology to a more portable form factor.
Key Specifications:
Display: 10.4-inch 2K (2000 x 1200) NXTPAPER display
The more compact size makes it an ideal device for on-the-go use, while still maintaining the benefits of the NXTPAPER technology. I have used it mostly as a secondary device for media consumption on the commuter train to work. With a starting price of around 3500 SEK it has the same price as the Boox Palma I bought this summer, with the added benefit of being a great phone with a really nice display, meaning that I will not have to carry two devices. While the Boox Palma has the benefit of NOT being able to be used as a phone the TCL device gives you a great reading device, for the not so hardcore “simple phone”/off-grid user.
Final Verdict
TCL’s NxtPaper technology represents an innovative approach to display technology that successfully bridges the gap between traditional LCD screens and e-ink displays. While it may not completely replace dedicated e-readers for hardcore e-book enthusiasts, it offers a versatile solution for users who want a more eye-friendly display without sacrificing the functionality of a full-color screen. The matte finish and black and white mode are standout features that make this technology particularly appealing for users who spend long hours looking at screens but don’t want to carry multiple devices.
The NXTPAPER 14 and NXTPAPER 50 Pro each serve different use cases well – the former excelling as a productivity device with its larger screen, while the latter offers greater portability without compromising on the core benefits of the NXTPAPER technology. Both devices showcase how this display technology can be effectively implemented across different form factors.
For those considering a device with NxtPaper technology, it’s worth noting that you’re getting the best of both worlds – a capable multimedia display that can transform into a more eye-friendly reading screen when needed. While it may not be perfect for every use case, it’s a significant step forward in display technology that addresses real user needs.
That was me a few years ago—and in spirit, it’s still true today. However, anyone who knows me would disagree, given that I (at this moment) wear two watches and even sleep with one on my wrist. So how can I claim to not be a “watch person”? The answer lies in how I view these devices. I’ve never needed a traditional timepiece, but I do need a fitness tracker, a smartwatch, and a sleep monitor. Modern smartwatches finally combine all these functions into one device, which is what drew me in. Before smartwatches reached their current capabilities, I happily went watch-free.
Right now my daily carry watch is a Samsung Galaxy Watch 5 Pro. I choose it because I wanted the extra battery life and I wanted to be able to carry the watch the whole day, including to bed, both because I want to track sleep and also because I want to have a silent alarm on my wrist that wakes me up in the morning, without waking my spouse.
A while ago I reached out to OnePlus because I was really curious to try the OnePlus Watch 2, the main reason being that it uses a “hybrid mode” where WearOS handles the advances operations of the watch, like running apps, and there is a “co-processor” called BES 2700 (with a RTOS) that handles the “day-to-day” tasks like handling alarms and showing time. This will get you better battery life. The OnePlus watch clocked in at 96 hours (the watch is rated to 100 hours but there were probably something I forgot to turn off) while my Samsung watch has 59 hours.
General
The watch has a Snapdragon W5 Gen 1, 2GB of Ram and a 500 mAh battery. It runs WearOS 4 and RTOS (which we will come back to since it is an important factor). My watch is connecting to the phone using Bluetooth 5.0 and it is also able to use WiFi to access the Internet.
The watch is 47 mm large and weighs in at around 80g with the strap attached which means that it is by no means a small watch.
Battery and Charging
As I mentioned above, one of the great things with the watch is the battery life. Even though I used the watch all day and I had sleep tracking and alarms on during the night, I still managed to get almost 100 hours out of the watch, and that is in regular mode. If you need to to there is also (as with most WearOS watches) an extreme power save mode where you get more battery.
Charging the watch is also really great. The watch comes with a small charging puck that is connected using USB-C. The puck is small enough to put in your pocket and not even noticing it. Instead of using wireless charging, like the Samsung, it relies on pogo pins that connect to a connectors on the underside of the watch. This is probably one of the reasons why the watch charges so quickly. The watch uses the proprietary OnePlus VOOC charging, but unlike earlier experiences I have had with OnePlus products (OnePlus 5T and 6T), I no longer need to use a proprietary cable or power brick, only the charging puck.
The Screen
The screen on the OnePlus Watch 2 is one of the best screens I have seen on a smartwatch. The watch has a 1.43″ AMOLED. It look great and I have never once not been able to see the screen, even in direct sun light. The watch can either have an always-on setting for the screen or it will turn on when you turn your wrist, which is the mode I usually use. On the OnePlus watch 2, it does a really great job, sensing then I turn my wrist. I would say that it works better than my Samsung.
Fitness and sensors
As I mentioned above, the main driver for me using a smart watch is that it is a smart watch. You get notifications, can run some smaller apps and so on. A very close second reason is the fitness aspect and the sensors. I own a dedicated running watch which I sometimes use when I train but it is getting used less and less. The reason is that I value the smart watch aspect more then the fitness aspect and all in all smart watches are mediocre at being fitness watches and vice versa. I would really like to just have one watch and not two and having to switch is a real pain. The OnePlus Watch 2 is equiped with optical heart rate sensor and an optical pulse oximeter which means that can all day pulse tracking, blood oxygen and stress. It also tracks your sleep and of course you steps and activities such as running. It also reminds you when you have not moved around for a while. It tracks more that 100 activities and can autodetect running, walking, cycling, swimming, rowing machine and elliptical machine. Even in battery saver mode it does health tracking, which is really impressive.
The Looks
Of course the look of a watch is highly subjective, but I really think that the watch is really good looking. Mine has a nice blue band, the watch it self is polished stainless steel and it look really sophisticated. If I compare it to my Samsung Galaxy Watch 5 Pro, it is much sleeker. The Samsung watch is more of a chunky and square outdoor watch while the OnePlus Watch is more of a watch you wear with a shirt or suit. They are both almost exactly the same physical size, but the OnePlus Watch 2 is much sleeker and does not “get in the way” as much due to more rounded profile.
There is how ever a couple of things that I need to raise when it comes to the design of the watch.
This summer I was travelling to Utah and while on a run, being a bit unficused watching the fantastic nature around me, I hit my foot on the side of a concrete, pavement tile and took a real ugly nose-dive. My face got really scratched up (I will spare you the pictures) and so did my Samsung watch. Thanks to the raised edges round the screen on the watch, the screen did not get hit and did not crack. On the OnePlus watch the glass screen raises above the stainless steel by 0.5 mm and I think that the watch might have suffered. Aggording to OnePlus the screen is made of sapphire crystal so it actually could have survived my clumpsyness
The second issue, which I think is a missed opportunity is that of the two buttons on the side of the watch, one is regular button to press and the other looks like a rotating crown. It is a bit sad that it is not a real rotating crown since that would have been a great touch making it sometimes easier to scroll on the watch.
All-In-All
After extensive testing, the OnePlus Watch 2 stands out as a compelling option in the crowded smartwatch market. Its strengths are clear and significant:
Industry-leading battery life (96 hours) thanks to its innovative hybrid processor system
Premium build quality with sophisticated stainless steel construction
Exceptional AMOLED display visibility in all lighting conditions
Comprehensive fitness tracking capabilities that work even in battery saver mode
Elegant design that transitions well from gym to office
The watch does have a few considerations to keep in mind:
The raised sapphire crystal screen, while durable, might be more vulnerable to direct impacts than designs with protective bezels
The non-rotating crown button feels like a missed opportunity for enhanced navigation
The 47mm size might be too large for those with smaller wrists
For users seeking a smartwatch that bridges the gap between fitness tracker and sophisticated timepiece, the OnePlus Watch 2 delivers exceptionally well. Its four-day battery life and hybrid processing system solve one of the most common smartwatch complaints, while its premium design ensures it never looks out of place, whether you’re in workout gear or business attire.
While not perfect, the minor drawbacks are far outweighed by the watch’s strengths, making it a solid choice for most users looking for a capable, long-lasting smartwatch.
Currently the watch is available for around $290 (2700 SEK).
If you want to read more about the OnePlus Watch 2, you can find the informantion here: https://www.oneplus.com/global/oneplus-watch-2
A couple of month ago I got the chance to borrow a OnePlus Open from OnePlus… There have been foldables on the market for a long time and one thing they have in common is that they are not very inexpensive. They are also a completely new take on the traditional smartphone. I was really looking forward to testing it. It had really good review and also… I have never used a foldable before.
While foldables have come a long way since their inception, durability is still a concern for many users. The OnePlus Open feels solid and well-built, with a hinge that operates smoothly and holds its position well. However, as with all foldables, extra care is needed compared to traditional smartphones. The crease on the inner display is minimal and less noticeable than on some competing devices, which is a plus for both aesthetics and usability. The phone is also remarkably thin when folded. With its thickness of 12 mm (excluding camera bump) it is only 3 mm thicker, when folded than the Google Pixel 8 Pro (also excluding camera bump. When unfolded, it is just 6 mm think, which is really impressive.
Software and User Experience
OxygenOS, OnePlus’s custom Android skin, works well on the foldable form factor. The software adjustments made to accommodate the folding design are thoughtful and add to the overall user experience. Features like the ability to use the outer display as a viewfinder for the main camera when taking selfies are clever and practical.
My test unit had the OxygenOS version based on Android 14.
Battery Life and Charging
As mentioned earlier, battery life is impressive considering the power requirements of the two displays. The phone easily lasts a full day with mixed use of both screens. OnePlus’s fast charging technology is also a boon, allowing you to quickly top up the battery when needed.
Then we come to charging… If you use the included OnePlus charger it charges at 67W. You can also use a standard PD (Power Delivery) but then the OnePlus open will only charge at around 15W. I have had OnePlus phones and the OnePlus proprietary charging is truly impressive… however, it is still proprietary, which I personally feel is a negative.
Multitasking and Productivity
One of the standout features of the OnePlus Open is its multitasking capabilities. The ability to run multiple apps side by side, coupled with the larger inner display, makes it a productivity powerhouse. Whether you’re comparing documents, taking notes while watching a video, or monitoring your email while browsing the web, the OnePlus Open handles it all smoothly.
OxygeneOS has a couple tricks up its sleave when it comes to making it multitask easier. The Open Canvas means that even though the inner screen (aka Tablet) is not huge, the canvas means that you can have 3 app running side by side. OnePlus has solved almost like virtual desktop on a computer. The Canvas is larger than the screen and you can pan from left to right and see either the two left-most or the the two right-most apps.
The app pairs feature is also particularly useful, allowing you to save combinations of apps that you frequently use together. This saves time and streamlines your workflow, making the transition from phone to tablet mode more purposeful and efficient. You can add a pair as a “new app” on the home screen and use that app shortcut to always launch those apps a pair.
Value Proposition
While the OnePlus Open is undoubtedly expensive, as are most foldables, it offers a compelling package for those who can make use of its versatility. If you find yourself frequently carrying both a phone and a tablet, or if you often wish for a larger screen on your smartphone, the OnePlus Open could potentially replace both devices, justifying its higher price point.
In order to justify the higher price of a foldable, it is not enough that it is “new cool technology”, it also have to add something to the phone experience. To do this it also adds requirements on the person using it, you need to change your way of working.
OnePlus Open as a phone
As a phone, the OnePlus Open is very good. It has a one of the best cameras on the market, a great screen and it has enough power to……. In my usage I have not had any kind of problems with battery capacity. The phone makes it through the day easily, even if I use the inner screen occasionally.
As you might expect, since it is a foldable, the One Plus open is not a small phone, not by any means. But comparing it to other foldables and next to my Pixel 8 Pro it is still an OK size. (See images).
Being a foldable means that it has a couple of really cool features even as a phone. For instance, being able to use the main camera as a selfie camera means a better quality camera that is available in more cases. This feature uses the cover screen as a view finder when taking a selfie.
Oneplus Open as a Tablet
To be fully honest.. the absolute best part of the OnePlus Open is the fact that it is also a tablet. Getting the extra screen real estate when you are on the go, without you needing to bring a tablet (and a bag for tablet). On the below images you will see the size comparison with a Pixel 8 Pro. As you can see it is (almost) abit smaller than the pixel and when it is unfolded, it is a lot larger than the Pixel.
Over the years, I have had a couple of tablets. Everything from a Google Nexus 7 to a Samsung Galaxy Tab 6 Lite and I have always not bringing them due to the size… even if the Nexus 7 was small, it had fairly big bezels which meant that either you needed cargo pants or a jacket with a inside pocket to bring it without noticing it. And at least for me it almost defeats the purpose is I always need to bring a bag… In that case I might as well bring a small and light laptop (my current laptops are a Surface Pro 6 and a HP Elitebook Dragonfly G3) since that will have a real keyboard. I am old enough to still appreciate a real keyboard before a screen keyboard #boomer even for just answering an email. Many applications, these days, are able to use the larger screen in a good way and are not just scaling the app up. Since I am mostly in the Microsoft ecosystem the ones I have mostly tried are Outlook and Teams but also apps like Feedly, Beeper, LinkedIn Discord and a lot of others. Watching videos and reading is of course also an obvious upside.
With a stock Android tablet you are able to place two different application side by side if you are using them simultaneously. One plus is enhancing this with a really cool features of the OnePlus Android implementation is that you are able to add more that two apps side by side and you can scroll sideways to see them all instead of having to open them up again. As mentioned above, the canvas and app pairs really makes the tablet mode stand out. I am really hoping Google will adopt this in stock Android in the future, for use in all foldables and tablets.
OnePlus Open as a Laptop
I guess that if you really did not want to bring a laptop, you could use the OnePlus Open with an external keyboard (I know Apple is taunting the iPad Pro as a laptop replacement, but I still think that there are certain benefits to an old school computer). I have tried it with a Microsoft Universal Foldable Keyboard and except for the fact that you would need some way to prop the “tablet” up it would work providing you do not need “real” applications. Using it in a way where I can have for instance a list on the left side and the message on the right or having LinkedIn on the left and have it open a video for instance on the right really makes sense.
However, while the OnePlus Open will probably work OK to the average knowledge worker, it’s important to note that while the OnePlus Open can handle many tasks traditionally done on a laptop, it’s not a full replacement for everyone. Complex tasks like video editing, coding, or running specialized software might still require a traditional laptop or desktop.
Conclusion
The OnePlus Open represents a significant step forward in the foldable smartphone market. It successfully combines the functionality of a smartphone and tablet in a well-designed package. Its strengths lie in its versatility, impressive camera system, and thoughtful software features that take advantage of the foldable form factor.
However, it’s not without its drawbacks. The price point will be a barrier for many, and despite improvements in durability, foldables still require more careful handling than traditional smartphones. Additionally, while it can handle many laptop-like tasks, it’s not a full replacement for a traditional computer for all users.
For those who value the flexibility of a larger screen in a pocketable device and can afford the premium, the OnePlus Open is an excellent choice. It pushes the boundaries of what we expect from our mobile devices and offers a glimpse into a future where the lines between our various gadgets continue to blur.
In the end, whether the OnePlus Open is right for you depends on your specific needs and use cases. But one thing is clear: it’s a impressive device that showcases the potential of foldable technology. Personally, I’m am a bit old school… I actually like my laptop. In my work I usually by a screen. I have a 13″ laptop which usually is connected to a docking station with an external monitor and that for me is the perfect setup with a lot of screen real-estate makes me handle the tasks of the day and when I am out and about, the small form factor is extremely portable.
And for all you OnePlus fans… Yes, the mute switch is still there 🙂
Jag har tidigare fått en möjlighet att testa lite olika true wireless lurar i min jakt på de perfekta lurarna. De jag fått testa tidigare är Jabra Evolve 65t, Jabra Elite 65t och senast var det Jabra Elite Active 75t.
Denna gång har jag fått låna ett par Jabra Elite 85t och testat dem under ett par veckor. Till viss del kommer denna test att använda de andra som referens och jag kommer att jämföra med dem.
Jabra Elite 85t är alltså den senaste varianten av Jabras true wireless lurar. De levereras som standard med ANC med hjälp av hårdvara (till skillnad från 75t) och laddning caset.
Casen som levereras med 85t är något större än den till 75t men det är marginellt. Batteritiden för hörlurarna är 7 timmar (totalt 31 timmar med fordralet). Laddningsfordralet har en USB-C kontakt för laddning. Anledningen till den är något större är att att även kan laddas trådlöst. Casen har både magnetisk stängning och håller även fast lurarna med magneterna vilket gör att de lätt snäpper på plats för att laddas.
Brusreduseringen i lurarna är nästan obehagligt bra, om man promenerar utomhus i närheten av trafik dämpar de trafikljuden nästa helt, det enda jag märkt att den har lite problem med är vindsus. Som jag skrev i recensionen av ANC på 75t kan jag ibland tycka att bra ANC ibland blir lite jobbigt i en lugn miljö. Det blir som ett vacuum. Jabra har även designat om gummipropparna som sitter i hörselkanalen så att de blivit ovala. Detta har man gjort för att man skall undvika sugkänslan man ibland upplever med inear proppar och för att undvika att dunkande ljud, som uppstår när man går och springer, förstärks.
Det finns ett par nackdelar med 85t, de är mest relaterade till mina egna preferenser. Den första är att de är något större än 75t vilket gör att de sticker ut lite mer från huvudet. De andra nackdelen är att till skillnad från Elite Active 75t har de en blank yta (75t är klädda med gummi) och de blir därför väldigt hala vilket gör att de blir lite knepiga att få ur asken eftersom de sitter med magneter. Detta är väldigt små nackdelar och de uppvägs med råge av alla fördelarna.
Vill du ha ett par riktigt bra trådlösa hörlurar med grym ANC, riktigt bra ljud och trådlös laddning är dessa absolut ett mycket bra val.
Häromdagen fick jag ett paket från Jabra… jag hade kontaktat dem och undrat om det fanns en möjlighet att få testa deras Elite Active 75t, som är deras senaste true wireless lurar som dessutom är tänkta för träning. Jag har ju som bekant kört ett par Evolve 65t under en längre tid och har varit väldigt nöjd med dem men jag nämnde i min recension av dem att att jag letade efter “one pair of headphones to rule them all”. Jag har egentligen 4 användningskategortier för hörlurar och dessa ställer lite olika krav på lurarna:
Arbete (video möten och musik lyssning på arbetet) – ljudisolerande, multipunkt (gärna med dongel i datorn)
Pendling (till och från arbetet) – ljudisolerande alt noise cancelling
Poddlyssning hemma och på fritiden – små att bära med sig, inte vara i vägen
Träning – fukt och svett säkra, sitta bra i öronen
Mina Evolve 65t kryssar egentligen för nästan alla utom träning… de har dongel och funkar med multipunkt anslutning både till datorn och telefonen, de är mycket bra på att stänga ute oljud, mikrofonerna filtrerar bort oljud när man pratar och de är små och enkla att bära med sig. Det enda jag inte använder dem till är när jag tränar så jag är lite rädd att de kommer att dö om de utsätts för mina kopiösa svettmängder (jag svettas bara jag tittar på tipsextra)
Jag fick alltså låna ett par Jabra Elite Active 75t och har kört dem nu under ett par veckor. Det första intrycket är att detta lurar är riktigt snygga. De har i princip samma form som de tidigare men ganska mycket mindre. De kommer i 6 olika färgsättningar och jag fick de som är mintgröna. Ljudet i lurarna är riktigt bra och tack vare att de är av in-ear modell och sluter tätt upplevs basen som riktigt maffig.
Laddningcasen som levereras med är något mindre än den som följer med 65t, har en USB-C kontakt och ger lurarna en total batteritid på 28 (!) timmar. Ett par fulladdade lurar ger dig 7,5 timmars lyssning vilket är mycket bra med tanke på att lurarna är väldigt små och väger endast 5,5 g. Tack vare snabbladdningen laddar den 1 timmes lyssningstid på 15 minuter. De har även släppt en variant med ett trådlöst laddnings case som kostar ca 200 kr extra. Casen är även magnetisk, så att lurarna sitter fast, och har ett magnetiskt lock.för att övergå till touch vilket innebär att de även funkar mar handskar och mössa. I och med att man gjort lurarna mindre har man varit tvungna att mickla lite med knapparna… man har tagit bort de dedikerade volymknapparna från från 65orna och ersatt dem mer långpress på respektive lur. Det var lite klurigt att komma på i början när man är van vid hur det funkade tidigare.
När det gäller stöd för smarta assistenter han man stöd för alla som har betydelse (sorry Cortana 🙁 ). Med ett dubbelklick på höger lur åkallar man “assistant of choice” i mitt fall Google utan att behöva använda lyssningskommandot.
I den senaste mjukvaran har man även infört en intressant funktion, Your Sound, som möjliggörs av den avancerade signalbehandlingen man har i lurarna. En hörseltest 🙂 denna gör att man kan detaljanpassa lurarnas inställningar till sin egen hörsel. Mjukvaran mobiltelefonen gör även att man kan anpassa profiler för t.ex hur mycket av din egen röst man skall höra i ett samtal.
Min sammanfattning av lurarna är att de är värdiga ersättare för 75orna som redan de var asgrymma… Jag rekommenderar både 75or och 65or å det högsta. Grymma lurar med snyggt och diskret utseende med bra ljud och batteritid.
Fördelar:
Fantastisk batteritid
USB-C laddning
Case med magneter och magnetiskt lock
Nackdelar
Endast den högra funkar ensam… den vänstra luren är beroenda av den högra
Personliga reflektioner: Som jag nämnt i de tidigare recensioner är jag inte odelat positiv till varken true wireless lurar eller renodlade inear lurar och det blir ännu tydligare när det handlar om lurar för träning. När jag springer med true wireless inear är jag inte helt säker på att de skall sitta fast tillräckligt och är hela tiden lite orolig för att de skall trilla ut. Om de sitter i en kabel gör det inte så mycket om de trillar ut… de sitter ju fast. Det verkar inte bara vara jag som insett detta problem och det finns därför nya “pluppar” att köpa som sitter lite bättre. Jag är ananrs väldigt förtjust i de vingar som en del andra leveranturer använder för att hålla fast lurarna. Det andra jag tycker är lite obehagligt är att eftersom in-ear lurarna sluter helt tätt resulterat detta i att man för varje löpsteg hör ett dovt “thump” båda öronen få stöten förstärks av att de sluter tätt.
Slutsats: Snälla Jabra, släpp ett par vattentäta Evolve 75t med en Link 370 (den trådlösa mottagaren som hör till Evolve lurarna) de skulle vara helt perfekta!!!!!!!! (Man kan idag koppla Active 75t mot Link 370 vilket gör att de funkar bättre med en dator men enligt Jabra är det skillnad mellan Evolve och Active lurar vilket gör att det inte är samma sak). Men som sagt… grymma lurar med väldigt bra batteritid och fantastiskt ljud. Rekommenderas varmt.
För ett tag sedan fick jag kontakt men det svenska hörlurstillverkaren Sudio. Jag har inte haft möjlighet att testa deras lurar tidigare men jag måste säga att det var en trevlig bekantskap. Modellen jag fått testa heter Sudio Fem, är av true-wireless typ och väger 5 gram var. Jag har ju tidigare gnällt på att jag har problem med in-ear lurar och jag sällan kan få dem att sitta fast som de skall. Sudio 5 sitter behvämt i örat och sticker inte ut så mycket. Modellen jag har är mörkblå med en liten guldfärgad utstickare där två av microfonerna sitter. Jag säger två för lurarna har hela 4 mikrofoner som ger dem en möjlighet att på ett effektivt sätt filtrera bort omgivningens ljud med en funktion som heter TrueVoice. Enligt min erfarenhet funkar detta mycket bra och de jag pratat med och frågat hur det låter säger att det låter mycket bra.
När det gäller lyssningsljudet i lurarna är det mycket bra. Ljudbilden känns mycket balanserad men klart ljud och fyllig bas. Jag är förmodlgen inte rätt person att bedöma detta då majoriteten av mitt lyssnande inte är musik utan röst i form av podcast och ljudböcker. Jag dock passat på attlyssna en del på musik för detta test.
Lurarna levereras med en magnetisk laddnings case med USB-C kontakt. Casen innehåller som vanligt ett batteri som ger lurarna totalt 20 timmars batteri tid.
En funktion som ingen av mina true vireless lurar haft tidigare men som jag vet att t.ex AirPods har och som i detta fall Sudios lurar har är att de är individuellt parade med telefonen vilket betyder att man kan ha vilken lur om helst liggande på laddning och den andra i örat om man t.x vill använda den som telefon headset. Väldigt praktiskt om man börjar få ont om batteri.
För att kontrollera lurarna finns en touch yta på respektive lur där dubbel-tap byter till förra respektive nästa spår/kapitel och trippel-tap höjer respektive sänker volymen. Enkel-tap på höger eller vänster lur är play/pause.
Det finns ett par saker jag tycker är aningen sämre med lurarna… för det första har varje lur en touch yta för att bland annat pausa, svara och aktivera röstassistent. Detta gör att lurarna är helt slutna och är IP X5 klassade. Det innebär dock att man inte någon annan feedback om man trycker annat än ett pip i luren när man play och pausat och att de inte funkar på vintern när man har har vantar och mössan långt nerdragen över öronen. Den andra saken jag saknar från de hörlurar jag använder till vardags är en hear-through funktion som gör att man kan höra omgivningen via mikrofonerna vilket är bra att ha när man t.ex besöker en butik och behöver prata med någon. Den tredje nackdelen har att göra med hur jag personligen använder mina hörlurarna. Jag föredrar att bara behöva ha med mig ett par lurar och eftersom jag dagligen sitter i mycket voice möten via datorn skulle jag verkligen uppskatta om jag kunnat ha lurarna anslutna till två enheter samtidigt (dator och telefon).
På det hela taget. Ett par mycket bra hörlurar med endast mindre nackdelar som inte avspeglar lurarna som helhet utan endast har att göra med mina specifika användningsområden. Jag tycker att dessa är bra och mycket prisvärda med sin prislapp på runt 1400 kronor i skrivandes stund. Helt klart rekommenderade!!
Vi i podden hade förmånen att komma i kontakt med Kingston i samband med ett frukostseminarie där de presenterade sina lösningar för säker lagring på arbetet. I samband med det fick vi möjlighet att testa deras DataTraveler 2000.
Stickan är en 16 GB lagrings enhet som kopplas till datorn med USB 3.0. Det som skiljer den från de flesta andra USB-stickor är att den är krypterad. Nu tänker du att “Jag kan ju kryptera vilken sticka som helst med Bitlocker To Go i Windows, FileVault i MacOS eller [insert random disk encryption tool here] på i princip alla platformar. Det finns även USB lagring med kryptering som kräver att mjukvara installeras på datorn för att komma åt det som är lagrat på disken. Detta gör att information en på USB-minnet är säkert om stickan är urpluggad men denna metod gör lösningen lite komplicerad och kommer att ställa till det lite om man t.ex vill använda det på en enhet som man inte kan installera mjukvara på.
Kingston har istället löst det i DT2000 genom att hantera all kryptering (AES 265 bitar i XTS Mode enligt Kingston) helt på stickan med hjälp av ett litet numeriskt tangentbord där man kan knappa in en kod. Det var lite knepigt att byta kod till att börja med, det finns en bra beskrivning som medföljer minnet men det var en hel del tryckande som var tvunget att göras under en viss tidsbrist. När detta väl var klart funkar stickan galant och finessen här är att operativsystemet i vilket man pluggar in minnet inte har en aning om att det är krypterat och så fort man rycker ut det så krypteras det igen. Minnet behöver dock inte vara inpluggat för att “låsas upp” då det innehåller ett batteri som håller det upplåst om koden knappas in i frånkopplat läge. Detta är en bra funktion om minnet skall kopplas in i en svårtillgänglig USB port t.ex.
Prestandamässigt håller minnet absolut måttet och levererar i mina mätningar en skrivhastighet på mellan 50 och 65 MB per sekund och läshastighet på runt 155 MB per sekund vilket är en bit över vad Kingston själv uppger.
Som jag nämnde i början levereras minnet endast med USB 3.0 vilket innebär den har en USB typ A kontakt och den leveras inte med USB Type C kontakt. Anledningen till detta är dels att det fortfarande finns mest USB typ A kontakter i världen och att USB typ C kontakten inte är lika stabil och eftersom minnet är ganska stort ville Kingston inte riskera att man skadar kontakten i datorn.
På det hela taget är Kingston DT2000 en mycket trevlig USB sticka med bra prestanda för den som lagring med extra säkerhet. Rekommenderas!!
