Microsoft Surface Studio 2, Xiaomi Mi MIX 3, Acer Chromebook Spin 13, and more: Reviews round-up

Microsoft may be a relative newcomer in the creative market, but the company has got the basics right with the Surface Studio 2. It may not have the raw computing power of the iMac Pro for high-end video editing, but the Surface Studio 2 does provide a more affordable alternative for 2D graphics and design work. And, with its adjustable display and stylus, the Surface Studio 2 offers designers a versatile digital drawing board.

For more see: Microsoft Surface Studio 2 review: A powerful digital drawing board

The Finney is a well-built handset. But its real job is to demonstrate the value of Sirin OS as a secure and usable platform for cryptocurrencies and other blockchain apps: licensing its platform to other smartphone makers may be a better bet for Sirin Labs than the hardware business in the long run.

For more see: Sirin Labs Finney review: A secure flagship-class smartphone with a built-in cold storage crypto wallet

The Xiaomi Mi MIX 3 is an impressive mid-range handset with a near-bezel-free screen thanks to its front camera slider. However, the phone is slippy to grip, and we worry that the camera area might get dusty over time or be a point of entry for moisture. The bundled wireless charger is a nice touch.

For more see: Xiaomi Mi MIX 3 review: A modern-day slider phone with dual front cameras

HP's ZBook Studio G5 Mobile Workstation can be configured to handle high-end workloads, although the combination of a Xeon processor and a very bright 4K display will have an adverse effect on battery life. So long as you're not looking to get too mobile with this sturdy but stylish 15.6-inch laptop, it's a serious contender for power users.

For more see: HP ZBook Studio G5 Mobile Workstation review: Stylish, sturdy and powerful

Chromebooks are still trying to find their niche in the Windows-dominated corporate world, but it's hard to deny the sheer value for money offered by devices such as the Spin 13. If you're looking for an affordable workhorse laptop that can handle web browsing and Microsoft Office all day long, then the convertible Spin 13 has a lot to offer.

For more see: Acer Chromebook Spin 13 review: A versatile and affordable Chromebook with impressive battery life

We really liked the feel of this rugged Ulefone Armor 6. Although a little large, the grip felt smooth. We loved the pared down UI and the large battery, and the extra-loud speaker meant never missed a call when using it. For under $500, you can get a fast-performing, sturdy device with a large screen and high-quality build.

For more see: Ulefone Armor 6 hands-on: The ideal rugged device for professional phone warriors

Xiaomi now has quite a compelling range of handsets, with plenty of variety across its different lines. The Pocophone F1 is further proof that it's possible to deliver good performance, plenty of internal storage and relatively long battery life without asking customers to break the bank.

For more see: Xiaomi Pocophone F1, hands on: A flagship-class handset that won't break the bank

For well under £300, the Moto G7 Plus is a well-featured phone with plenty of highlights, including good battery life and fast charging. The camera features seem very good too, and the 6.2-inch screen is a pleasure to use. Add in dual SIM support and good build quality, and it's clear Motorola has focused its development effort in the right areas. 

For more see: Motorola Moto G7 Plus review: A top-quality budget smartphone

The hardware is fantastic, battery life is great, sleep tracking may be the best available on a wearable, and GPS has shown itself as fast and accurate. Overall, the Huawei Watch GT is a great choice for $200, but we would like to see the ability to export or share data with other services since the ecosystem is pretty closed with little help from family and friends to help motivate you to achieve your goals.

For more see: Huawei Watch GT review: Advanced sleep tracking, GPS, and long battery life in a traditional watch form factor

Samsung's SmartThings Wifi is the best of both worlds. You not only get a reliable mesh Wi-Fi system, but you get the added bonus of the SmartThings ecosystem for home automation. With products from Ring, Schlage, Ecobee, and many more all supported by the SmartThings ecosystem, it makes sense to consolidate the number of hubs and devices in your home.

For more see: Samsung SmartThings Wifi review: Mesh networking with a smart home twist

The new Jaybird RUN XT wireless earbuds improve on the earlier RUN with better resistance to the elements and slight hardware changes, but a problem with audio while viewing video content remains. The high level of water resistance is great and these earbuds should last you for years. If an update can fix the video problem then maybe we'll try them again, but until then it's back to the Jabra Elite Active 65t headset.

For more see: Jaybird RUN XT hands-on: Improved water resistance, customizable buttons, and video playback failure

The Arlo Ultra is one of the more expensive security cameras currently available, but its high-quality video recording and added features such as the integrated siren and spotlight provide comprehensive security features for both home and business users. And, with the SmartHub also included, you have the option of expanding the Arlo Ultra into a wider security system in the future.

For more see: Arlo Ultra, hands-on: A premium security camera with expansion potential