Accessories

2023 GadgetMatch Approved Devices

Gadgets that truly deserve the GadgetMatch Seal of Approval

Published

December 19, 2023

Vincenz and GadgetMatch

We wouldn’t call ourselves “GadgetMatch” without being able to recommend you “gadgets” that “match” your needs, right?

Aside from smartphones, our members also gave other devices the GadgetMatch Seal of Approval — whether that’s a tablet, smartwatch, smart TV, desktop, laptop, wireless earbuds. Heck, there’s even more than just one handheld gaming console!

Just like the smartphone version of GadgetMatch’s Approved list, this is in descending order from most recently published.

GameSir G8 Galileo

“Most smartphone controllers prioritize portability. Thus, they’re more compact. The GameSir G8 Galileo changes all of that because of its size. It’s also not just larger. Its ergonomics are great too. Your hands will sit nicely on the nice, curved handles for a more comfortable, more enjoyable handheld gaming session.

The feel of the controller is fantastic and is easily the most enjoyable out of every other smartphone controller that I’ve tried before.” — Rodneil

Samsung HW-Q600C Q Soundbar

“The Samsung HW-Q600C Q Soundbar makes you feel your entertainment in both tangible and intangible ways. It adds something extra to your favorite movies, shows, music, and everything in between.” — Rodneil

ROG Zephyrus G14 (2023)

“I have already said this at the start of the article, but it bears repeating. The ROG Zephyrus G14 is an all-eggs-in-one-basket machine that can keep up with you in play, work, and everything else in between.

If I, a long-time Mac user, absolutely HAD TO switch to Windows, this is the laptop that I will go for. “ — Rodneil

Lenovo Legion Go

“Is this your GadgetMatch? If you’re new to the handheld console market, absolutely. For its price point, you’re getting more than your money’s worth. While Sony is currently struggling with its return to handheld gaming, the Lenovo Legion Go offers an all-around, powerful solution for mobile entertainment.” — Luigi

Garmin epix Pro (Gen 2)

“As I transition into becoming a recreational athlete who aims to stand on the podium one day, the Garmin epix Pro is the smartwatch I’ve always dreamt of. It’s not my ideal type, but it’s everything I need. I think that’s what matters — both in smartwatch preferences and in our love life.” — MJ

Apple M3 iMac

“If you’re looking for an all-in-one computer for your home, there’s no better choice than the 2023 iMac.

If you’re a PC user looking to switch to a Mac, this might just be your best bet. If you own an Intel model, now is a great time too.” — Michael Josh

Apple M3 Max MacBook Pro

“If you feel like you need more power, more performance, more battery life, go out and buy an M3-powered MacBook Pro. I can go on and on, but simply put, there’s nothing like it in the market today.” — Michael Josh

Samsung Galaxy Tab S9 Ultra

“When it comes to Android tablets, nothing quite comes close to the Galaxy Tab S9 Ultra from Samsung. It’s definitely best in its class.” — Michael Josh

Xiaomi Pad 6

“The Xiaomi Pad 6 has to be the easiest Android tablet to recommend right now. It’s the ultimate bang-for-your-buck tablet, squeezing out plenty of features and functionality for a package price that’s more than reasonable. Xiaomi has a winner on their hands. One that deserves the GadgetMatch seal of approval.” — Rodneil

ROG Ally

“The ROG Ally is an exciting handheld gaming console. On its own, the ROG Ally is a truly compelling gaming gadget. A relatively affordable handheld with the power to play AAA titles whenever and wherever. It’s pretty easy to justify its place in your gaming lifestyle. It’s not perfect but it’s pretty polished for a first generation device.” — Rodneil

Samsung Neo QLED 4K QN90C

“If you’re in the market for a new TV, I highly recommend the Samsung Neo QLED 4K QN90C. I think it offers excellent picture quality, plenty of connectivity options, and some extras, all at a reasonable price tag. — Michael Josh

Apple Mac Studio

“If you would consider yourself semi-pro or pro and require more power, then a Mac Studio is definitely worth checking out. Get the Mac Studio if more of your high-end work is done at a desk — whether that be at home or office. I love my Mac Studio, and I know you will too.” — Michael Josh

Apple M2 Max MacBook Pro 16”

“If you need more power and performance, then I also highly-recommend the MacBook Pro. These new M2 Pro and M2 Max chips are so powerful and while it may be more power than what you need right now, if you plan on holding onto your machine for say 5 years — maybe even more, then as apps get more and more demanding, you’ll find that your machine will still be able to handle anything you throw at it for many, many years to come.” — Michael Josh

Apple M2 MacBook Air 15″

“It’s so easy to recommend the MacBook Air. It’s a well-built, thin and light laptop, with an affordable price tag. It has enough power for most users. And, it’s complemented by a rich Apple ecosystem.” — Michael Josh

ROG Zephyrus M16

“Overall, the ROG Zephyrus M16 was always designed to be one of the best gaming laptops out there, and this iteration is just no different. There are more affordable options for this model, with one of them at PhP 169,995 for the RTX 4070 model. Even so, that’s still an impressive piece of work that will elevate the gaming experience further.” — GadgetMatch

Uperfect X14 Pro

“I can wholly recommend this product for people who, like myself, like to live off of their phones as their main computing gadget. It gets the job done, usage is just like using any laptop you’ve ever used before.” — Kevin

ROG Flow X16

“The ASUS ROG Flow X16 is a great 2-in-1 device that holds its own with nothing extra needed. With powerful hardware embedded inside a relatively slim form factor, it has everything you need for work and play. Whether you’re a competitive gamer or a content creator at heart, you won’t go wrong with this as an option.” — GadgetMatch

Apple M2 Mac mini

“If you’re just looking to get the most affordable Mac that you can get today, then, don’t even think about it. I highly recommend the new 2023 M2-powered Mac mini.

Despite its price, don’t be fooled, this is one powerful machine that can do everything you need for work or play.” — Michael Josh

Accessories

Logitech announces G PRO X TKL gaming keyboard

Compact, cordless, portable

Published

May 1, 2024

GadgetMatch

Logitech has announced the G PRO X TKL gaming keyboard, a compact and cordless peripheral meant to assist gamers in the highest levels of competition. The G PRO X TKL comes with a pro-inspired tenkeyless design for more room and comfort, and Lightsync RGB lighting for style. It features dual-shot PBT keycaps for durability and wear and tear prevention.

The keyboard’s standard layout allows users to customize it with third-party keycaps and additional media keys. Users may also set up macros and create quick access while grinding. Speaking of customization, they may pick between Tactile, Linear, or Clicky Switches to tailor-fit the keyboard to their feel.

The G PRO X TKL connects via Lightspeed, ensuring users of lag-free performance at up to a 10-meter range. That’s better responsiveness than standard Bluetooth. Additionally, it has a 1000Hz polling rate. Long gaming sessions are a breeze too, as the keyboard’s battery lasts up to 50 hours. Lastly, for gamers on the go, the G PRO X TKL is portable and comes with its own carry case.

Logitech’s latest gaming peripheral is now available online and at all partner retail outlets, including PC Express, Silicon Valley, DataBlitz, Octagon, Electroworld, Complink, iTech, Techwarez, GameOne, Interpace Computer Systems, GameXtreme, TTI, DynaQuest PC, Digi-Serv Solutions, Concept Computer, NUTECH, DFE (Davao Futurebright Enterprises), Villman, PCWorx, Abenson, Digistore, and Greenware.

Accessories

TP-Link Wi-Fi 7 devices now official: Price, availability

Blazing fast connectivity

Published

April 26, 2024

GadgetMatch

TP-Link has officially announced its new Wi-Fi 7 capable devices, including two new Archer routers and the DECO BE25 mesh. Particularly, the Archer BE230 which promises 49% better transmission speed is now available via TP-Link’s Shopee and selected retailers.

TP-Link’s Wi-Fi 7 products revolutionize the way users experience wireless connectivity. Aside from blazing-fast speeds and reduced latency 20% better than previous generation devices, these products come with several features like Multi-Link Operation to optimize network efficiency.

Users can expect better allocation of resources, reduced interference, and smoother data transmission overall. The devices also offer better and more reliable coverage across larger areas, reducing dead zones. The products also come with new security features and enhancements for better network protection. Among them are stronger encryption standards and enhanced defenses against emerging threats.

New Tapo lineup

Aside from the Wi-Fi 7 products, TP-Link has also unveiled a new lineup of smart home products, including the Tapo C425 wire-free security camera. The brand has also released the Tapo Smart Battery Video Doorbell, Tapo C720, and 2K QHD Smart Floodlight Camera, to name a new. These solutions will be released by May 2024.

Price, availability

The TP-Link Archer BE230 is priced at PhP 5,990. The brand will release another router, the Archer BE400, during the third quarter of 2024.

On the other hand, the TP-Link DECO BE25 mesh will be available by June 2024. It will come in the two-pack and three-pack options for PhP 13,990 and PhP 19,990, respectively.

Lastly, the RE235BE range extender and Archer TBE400UH adapter shall be released in June and July 2024, respectively. They are priced at PhP 4,990 and PhP 3,190.

Accessories

ASUS ROG launches new monitors, peripherals, components, more

At the ROG Launch Event

Published

April 19, 2024

Levi Verora Jr

Thinking of building a legitimate PC gaming setup at your place, or upgrading your existing one? Well, you’re in luck. ASUS ROG has just launched a bunch of new gaming devices during an event held in San Juan City, Metro Manila. There are a lot to choose from to suit your needs, including OLED monitors, peripherals, components, and even mini PCs.

Gaming monitors

Headlining the new batch of gaming monitors is the ROG Swift OLED (PG32UCDM). This 32-inch 4K QD-OLED panel delivers astounding visuals at up to a 240Hz refresh rate. Already in its third generation, the QD-OLED technology helps in displaying vibrant colors, deeper black hues, and brighter highlights. The monitor also promises 0.03ms response time and an advanced custom heatsink for cooling.

Alternatively, The ROG Strix XG27UCS and XG27ACS models bring games to life. The fast IPS panels offer 180Hz and 160Hz refresh rates, respectively, and 1ms GTG response time. These products are G-SYNC compatible and support Extreme Low Motion Blur (ELMB) Sync for smooth and tear-free gameplay. Moreover, they are DisplayHDR 400 certified and offer a wide DCI-P3 gamut. Users may also tinker settings further with the AI-powered GamePlus technology and Dynamic Shadow Boost feature.

There are six monitor models in total ranging from 24-inch to 49-inch sizes, available by order basis for the following prices:

ROG Swift OLED PG49WCD: PhP 107,690
ROG Swift OLED PG32UCDM: PhP 93,190
ROG Swift OLED PG34WCDM: PhP 89,940
ROG Swift OLED PG27AQDM: PhP 65,890
ROG Swift Pro PG248QP 540Hz: PhP 63,290
ROG Strix XG27ACS: PhP 17,990

Gaming peripherals

ROG Falchion RX LP

Looking for a new keyboard? the ROG Falchion RX Low Profile is a 65% compact gaming keyboard. With low-profile switches and two dampening foams, it offers an unprecedented typing and gaming experience. The keyboard can be connected via ROG SpeedNova wireless and the ROG Omni Receiver. Its interactive touch panel allows for several customization options.

ROG Carnyx

For those who love streaming their sessions or simply prefer communicating with teammates, the ROG Carnyx cardioid USB microphone features a 25mm condenser capsule and a 24-bit, 192kHz sampling rate capacity. It comes with high-pass and built-in pop filters to reduce noise and vocal plosives as well, while its shock mount minimizes vibrations.

The ROG Falchion RX LP is now on general sale for PhP 8,580, available in both blue and red colors. Gamers may choose between the black and white ROG Carynx variants for PhP 9,350.

ROG Cetra True Wireless

For an immersive audio experience, the ROG Cetra True Wireless SpeedNova remains the brand’s standard. The versatile gaming headphones can connect using Bluetooth or ROG SpeedNova 2.4GHz. It supports 24-bit 96kHz audio, Dirac Opteo, and Adaptive ANC to immerse users to high-resolution audio. Bone-Conduction AI microphones complement the headphones for superior call quality. Also, the headphones last up to 46 hours as well on a single charge.

ROG Keris II Ace

For those into FPS titles, the ROG Keris II Ace has an ergonomic shape tested by esports professionals. The 54-gram gaming mouse has industry-leading features for competitive play, comfort, and control. It is complemented by the ROG Polling Rate Booster for smooth cursor control. This ROG-exclusive accessory upgrades the polling rate up to 4,000Hz in wireless and 8,000Hz in wired mode.

Both the Keris II Ace gaming mice and ROG Cetra True Wireless SpeedNova gaming headphones will be released in May 2024, with prices yet to be announced.

ROG Ace Collection

The ROG Ace collection will also be coming soon. These gaming mice and mousepads are designed with the help of esports professionals and world record aimers at Aim Lab. They will be available in the following models later this year:

ROG Harpe Ace Aim Lab Edition
ROG Falchion Ace
ROG Hone Ace Aim Lab Edition
ROG Hone Ace XXL
ROG Moonstone Ace L

Back to the Future series

Furthermore, those thinking of a DIY PC assembly will benefit from ASUS’ Back-to-the-Future series which features hidden-connector design for a cleaner and more aesthetically pleasing look. The series includes motherboards, graphic cards, and chassis for the following prices:

Motherboards

ROG Maximus Z790 Hero BTF: PhP 42,460 (May 2024)
TUF Gaming Z790 BTF WiFi: PhP 22,430 (April 2024)

Graphics cards

ROG Strix RTX 4090 O24G BTF Gaming: PhP 141,370 (May 2024)
TUF RTX 4070 TIS O16G BTF (white): PhP 68,560 (April 2024)

Chassis

TUF Gaming GT302 (white): PhP 7,360
TUF Gaming GT302 (black): PhP 7,070
ROG Hyperion BTF (black): Coming soon (May 2024)

Coming soon: ROG Rapture WiFi 7, ROG NUC

Lastly, the ROG Rapture quadband WiFi 7 gaming router is tailored for next-gen computing, with speeds of up to 25Gbps and dual 10Gbps ports. You may enjoy up to 16 simultaneous WiFi streams for several content like videos, games, and browsing for everyone at home.

On the other hand, the ROG NUC features Intel Core Ultra 9 processors and NVIDIA RTX 4070 graphics, all packaged in a compact 2.5L form factor.

This ultra-small yet ultra-powerful chassis is designed for quick system access, making upgrades and cleaning quick and easy. Compatible with the Raikiri Pro controller, the ROG NUC is the ultimate choice for gamers seeking uncompromised performance and flexibility.