Joining a Spartan race was one of the pivotal moments in my life. It changed my lifestyle, shaped my character, and brought me lessons and experiences that redirected the course of my life.
Back then, the goal was to complete the Trifecta by collecting all three wedges from Spartan’s races: Sprint/Stadion (5KM with 20 obstacles), Super (10KM with 25 obstacles), and Beast (21KM with 30 obstacles).
This year, I obtained a double Trifecta and even pushed myself to conquer Spartan’s challenge of Trifecta Weekend where you’ll complete all three races in one weekend.
To prepare for my most ambitious goal (so far), Garmin Philippines equipped me with a smartwatch that became the perfect companion in my training.
Armed with the second-generation Garmin epix Pro, I also enlisted the help of Coach Genaro Sabile of G Performance and Fitness to ensure I have the mind and body suitable to compete for Trifecta Weekend.
Gear On: Garmin epix Pro (Gen 2) – 42mm Sapphire
Most sports smartwatches come with bulky sizes that would make me look like I’m Ben Tennyson from the animated series Ben 10. It’s hideous, right?
The Garmin epix Pro wasn’t anything like it. The first time I laid my eyes on it at an event at The Manila Padel Club, I knew I wanted it.
I liked how it used Sapphire Crystal on its lens, accented by a Titanium bezel supported by a fiber-reinforced polymer case. Even for a Carbon Gray colorway, the design exudes a tough aura geared towards athletes.
It’s heavier compared to the Apple Watch, but still lighter than the Huawei Watch GT 4. I’d still count it as lightweight, at least for me.
Moreover, it comes in a 42mm variant which wraps around my wrist perfectly. My only gripe is itching from the silicone material used on the strap that came with the device.
Nevertheless, the epix Pro came with an AMOLED touchscreen that makes it feel like an actual smartwatch. You can smoothly glide to take a preview of your data, but there are also corresponding buttons with respective functions that aid in navigating the device.
Garmin’s DNA is all over the epix Pro. It’s their premium smartwatch, after all.
Are you ready for a workout?
After an extreme awakening in July when I ditched my Apple Watch, I prepared myself for a grueling four-month hardcore training regimen.
My coach and I had to follow a six-day workout plan consisting of strength training, power endurance, and a structured running program. Hybrid athlete in the making, yes?
I’d say that it was tough trying to balance my program, personal affairs, work, and a few other things. It’s even tougher when you don’t get to complete the weekly workouts because life got in the way.
Still, I tried my best to show up on days that I felt like I couldn’t. My Garmin epix Pro came with morning reports indicating my training readiness and my training status.
Rest is crucial in helping your muscles grow and recover. Most of the time, when my smartwatch says I shouldn’t be working out and I should listen to my body, I heed the warning.
Sometimes, you don’t have the energy to perform your best, especially when doing squats, presses, and deadlifts.
Along with my body’s readiness, Garmin’s smartwatches also come with Body Battery energy monitoring. I get to see if my energy levels can handle my upcoming training for the day or I should just opt to recharge by getting sleep.
9 out of 10, I usually sleep. This usually happens when my stress score for the day is unbelievably high, I just need to make a restful recovery.
And speaking of sleep, I usually wear my smartwatch while recovering to allow the device to capture necessary data.
By morning, I get a detailed report on my body’s recovery through sleep score, the breakdown of my sleep stages, my sleep quality, and my heart-rate variability (HRV) status.
Check your heart rate
Aside from my strength and muscle endurance training, I spend a lot of my days outside going for a run.
The majority of my runs are divided into building my already high aerobic base, doing speed work, and improving my lactate threshold to last well in a race.
When running, I usually follow my heart rate zone and try my best to stay in Zone 2 for aerobic building. When I do threshold runs, I make sure it’s between Zone 3 and 4, while speed work pushes me to the edge of Zone 4 and up to Zone 5.
Sprinting takes a lot of power, which is why you need to push yourself to reach the fastest you can.
But of course, heart rate isn’t everything. During my slow and long runs, I was usually tuned in to my smartwatch. I check my pace, speed, cadence, power, and stamina — monitoring them while ensuring I maintain my form and rhythm.
Running on roads and trails
In four months, I only racked up five to ten kilometers of weekly mileage on road runs, which is unbelievably low for someone who competes in an endurance race.
But what can I do? My schedule doesn’t allow me to go out for longer runs. My best option was taking on the trails during the weekend. I switch up now and then running at Mt. Ayaas and Mt. Parawagan, accumulating a total of 10-15 kilometers, depending on the route we take.
At some point, we got lost traversing the secret river which racked us a total of 17 kilometers. 14 kilometers of assaults, slopes, uneven terrains, and 3 kilometers of crossing a knee-deep river with strong currents.
I feared for my life, yes. But the Garmin epix Pro’s GPS mode came into play, providing hope that we are taking the right trail going back to the town.
Race simulations
What I liked the most about my Garmin smartwatch was having it help me plan my upcoming races. When I joined the Xiaomi Pop Run, I used both the Smart Band 8 (which I did for a review) and the Garmin epix Pro on my other wrist as part of my training plan.
Since I always ran on the slopes of my village located on the hilly side far east of the Metro, the epix Pro managed to get valuable data that would help with my race simulations.
My VO2Max amounted to 57, which is then used alongside my training history, to measure my Hill Score and Endurance Score.
Both features measure my capability for my ability to run and sustain my prolonged efforts, whether on an uphill training or any other athletic pursuits.
It’s also used to get an estimate of my pace through the race predictor feature. Whether it’s a 5K, 10K, half-marathon, and a marathon.
There’s also an option to plan a race-day strategy with the PacePro Pacing Strategies. However, during the Xiaomi Pop Run, I opted to create a training plan to follow. Instead of aiming for a SUB1 finish, I put in a heart rate zone to follow for every kilometer.
This ended in a 1 hour and 4 minutes finish. I was disappointed that I was four minutes late, but I reminded myself that the training was more important. After all, the bigger event was the Spartan Trifecta Weekend.
Eventually, it paid off. Doing simulations at Obstacle Central allowed me to perform a clean execution of all obstacles in a short amount of time. Knowing full well that even with inconsistent training, I progressed a lot. I’m well-equipped to take on the Trifecta Weekend.
Ready for the Spartan Trifecta Weekend
I arrived the day before the Trifecta Weekend to do my duty as a race photographer for the 3K Elite race. It’s a different format requiring athletes to compete with speed and explosive power.
Being in the field gave me a huge advantage, seeing how the terrain would look like if the weather remained the same. Hot and humid, but still bearable for someone who’s acclimated to a never-ending summer weather.
The event took place in Montclair Destination Estate, an upcoming property development near Clark City. Having participated in races near the area, I know fully well what was waiting for me as a racer.
Sand, smog, a barren wasteland, uneven terrain of grass and rocks, a lahar-filled trail, and short slopes. Most of all, there are no shaded areas along the race course.
Spartan Beast
The first day of the Trifecta Weekend hosted the Spartan Beast race. A grueling 21-kilometer trail packed with 30 obstacles. I signed up for the Age Group category since it was the last leg of the Philippine National Series, and I intended to give my best in the last competitive heat that would require my mind, heart, and soul.
I finished my last Beast race back in May at around 4 hours and 36 minutes. This happened because I cramped at every obstacle on the last stretch of the race. I almost cried and it broke my spirit, knowing I could’ve finished in less than four hours.
This time around, I was determined to beat my time while performing a clean execution of the race. Funny enough, the only time I was penalized was when I dropped the Atlas Carry and Hercules Hoist.
Both obstacles require intense strength since they’re both around 50kg, and completing it would give me intense muscle cramps.
I already had two intense leg cramps. One was when I jumped at the eight-foot wall placed on a slope, making it ten feet high. One was when I ran after crossing an obstacle that required jumping over a three-foot wall and crossing bars as a stair going down.
Nevertheless, I finished at 3 hours and 47 minutes with 28 obstacles cleared. Far from my original goal, but better than my previous race even if I had various leg cramps along the way.
Moreover, my official ranking from my Age Group’s leaderboard jumped from 28th to 13th. A big jump, considering that my age bracket (25-29 yo) is among the most physically strong and in peak condition.
It was a tough battle and I’m proud of myself.
Spartan Super
The next day, I was hesitant to participate in the second day of the Trifecta Weekend. The muscles all over my body were stiff and aching from taking on the Spartan Beast race.
Still, I managed to get up since I remembered the costs of everything I paid for the race. Training, gear, nutrition, and countless days spent in the gym and on the trails.
I took on the Elite category for Spartan Super, a 10-kilometer trail with 25 obstacles. The obstacles are pretty much the same as the Spartan Beast, which gave me an inkling of what to do next.
I was excited since it was my second time participating in the elite category. I had to race toe-to-toe with national athletes, personnel of the Philippine Military Academy (PMA), and strong, competitive racers who decided to level up.
My last elite race flunked and I was thrashed because I was unprepared. This time around, I redeemed myself. Though far from going head-to-head with the national athletes, I was happy that on the first few kilometers, I was butting heads with the athletes from PMA.
I ended the Spartan Super in 1 hour and 36 minutes with 24 obstacles cleared out of 25. Again, I dropped the Hercules Hoist since my legs showed signs of cramping and I still had to take on a race afterward. Playing smart is the key.
Spartan Sprint
Having completed a double trifecta for the year with the Spartan Super medal, taking on the Spartan Sprint meant getting an extra medal. But finishing it meant also completing the Trifecta Weekend challenge.
Knowing that it was an Open category and a short, 5-kilometer trail with 20 obstacles, I decided to play around. I have friends who are taking on their first race, and I joined them while wearing bunny ears. Just for fun, you know.
Racing with friends is a lot more fun than going competitive, creating new memories that I will forever cherish. I didn’t mind the time, and instead, helped my friends conquer the obstacles and the race.
Aside from being the cheerleader, I lightened the mood on the race course since most people were surprised to see me dressed in an all-white outfit, dirty, and wearing bunny ears.
Moreover, I didn’t require any help. Even with a tired body, I knew that preparing for the Trifecta Weekend gave me a strong, enduring mind and body that could take three races in one weekend. And it was all thanks to the dedication I put in for four months.
A Spartan’s GadgetMatch
Switching to the Garmin epix Pro was the best decision I made this year. Not only did it help me improve my athletic performance, but it also helped push me to make healthier habits.
Having a premium multi-sports smartwatch on your wrist will make you think about what you are doing with your life if you’re just sitting on a couch, doom-scrolling on TikTok. It will make you get up, and put in the work because it’s expensive AF.
The Garmin epix Pro Sapphire 42MM and 47MM retail for PhP 62,780. Meanwhile, the epix Pro Sapphire 51mm is priced at PhP 69,050.
The price alone would mean it’s an investment to make, but a worthy one because it’s for your health, fitness, and overall improvement of your life.
As a Spartan, it pushed me to face obstacles not just on the race course but in my life — head-on. Knowing I have a smartwatch to keep track of my progress, I know I’ll do better one obstacle and 10,000 steps at a time.
Reviews
vivo X300 Pro review: Going the X-tra Mile
300+ Hours Later with vivo’s latest and greatest X-flagship
In a surprising turn of events, vivo has already made the X300 Pro globally available as short as three weeks after the exclusive Mainland launch.
It was first introduced to European regions. Next in line were Asian markets such as Singapore, Malaysia, Thailand, Vietnam, India, and definitely, the Philippines.
Without any frills, here’s my X-tensive review of the latest and greatest flagship from vivo — 300+ hours after I started using it.
For context: we unboxed the unit exactly October 31st. But it was only during the first day of my Vietnam trip (November 10) that I was able to fully utilize and maximize the X300 Pro. Counting those days (or hours), I’ve been using vivo’s latest X-phone for around 386 hours as I’m writing this piece.
X-cellent Cameras
Without beating around the bush, we all know the main reason why we’re eyeing the X300 Pro, and it’s none other than its intricate camera setup.
vivo X300 Pro |
vivo X200 Pro |
|
Wide |
50MP f/1.57
|
50MP f/1.571/1.28” Sony LYT-818 |
Ultra-Wide |
50MP f/2.0
|
50MP f/2.0119º FoV (Field of View)
|
Telephoto |
200MP f/2.67 ZEISS APO
|
200MP f/2.67 ZEISS APO
|
Selfie |
50MP f/2.0
|
32MP f/2.0 |
Specs-wise, there hasn’t been a massive difference — just newer sensors equipped.
But, as I always say in my write-ups, hardware is just one factor. Actual photo output is what truly makes or breaks the performance of the phone’s cameras.
To somewhat entice you, here are some of my postcards from my very recent Vietnam trip — obviously shot on the vivo X300 Pro.
(Brace yourself, there’s a lot to come!)
Just like hopping along three cities in Vietnam, I used the three lenses of the X300 Pro more extensively due to their overall flexibility — more than what I did with my mirrorless camera and the recently-bought 35mm prime lens attached to it.
And by that, it’s the phone’s capability to switch seamlessly between several focal length options with little to no degradation.
That also meant consistent colors regardless if you use the main 1x mode, UWA (ultra-wide angle), its optical 3.5x zoom, or even beyond 5x lossless zoom.
X-ceptional Collab
The superiority of vivo X300 Pro’s cameras doesn’t revolve only around its hardware. Over the years, vivo has strengthened its ties with ZEISS even further. Starting it all with the X60 all the way to X300 series, the brand’s exceptional collab is stronger than ever.
The default ZEISS color profile captures photos that look natural without being too flat. I’ve been using this in subjects that offers the best balance in shadows and saturation.
That said, vivo providing two more profiles just means they want the user to be as creative and as free as possible.
When it comes to food, switching to Vivid is deemed the best option. This profile gives the best pop of colors in the scene.
Architecture and interior should not be exempted when using this punchy profile.
It also made these golden hour shots more favorable than just sticking with the default ZEISS calibration.
📍 Lotte Mall West Lake (Hồ Tây)
But, for the entirety of my trip, I relied heavily on Textured as I love how my shots look more soulful in this profile with ample amount of shadows and toned-down highlights.
📍 Hạ Long Bay
📍 SaPa Center
📍 Hanoi Train Street
📍 Phố cổ Hà Nội + Hoàn Kiếm
📍 Thành phố Hồ Chí Minh / Sài Gòn
📍 Vietnam Airlines / VN206
Furthermore, it gives that much-needed depth when taking pics of indoor and outdoor pets.
Switching to Portrait Mode, ZEISS Style Portrait remains with faster shooting times plus more precise subject to background segmentation.
Mind you, it’s not limited to human subjects as I used it all throughout my time with these cute capys in Saigon.
Speaking of, it’s worth mentioning that the user now has the ability to pick between vivo’s three color profiles when shooting in Portrait Mode. It’s something you cannot do in previous vivo phones. Not even vivo’s latest V60 midranger has this.
Also, the rear flash unit can now be toggled in this mode — just without that Aura Light madness. It makes more sense when taking night-time portraits with high facial illumination.
There’s also an additional ZEISS “Mirotar” lens. This only appears though when aiming to shoot tele-macro subjects as it’s not included in vivo’s default Portrait Mode lenses under ZEISS Style Portrait.
X-traordinary Camera X-tras
The vivo X300 Pro is very rich in camera feats. It doesn’t just end with the default Photo Mode.
Humanistic Street Snap Camera Mode still remains — which isn’t very different from the X200 Pro. Thankfully, vivo added two more film presets: Positive Film and Clear Blue.
The X300 Pro already has a fast shutter speed in the default Photo Mode. But in times where you’re really on the move and you cannot stay still, Snapshot Mode is here to save the day.
With my commute in Vietnam heavily relying on riding motorbikes, this mode became my go-to for capturing fast-moving subjects.
Trying to take very-detailed horizon shots? The 50MP and 200MP Hi-Res toggles exist. They were beneficial when I tried taking horizon shots of Hanoi, Saigon, and even SaPa.
* For the sake of this write-up, I’ve retained the resolution but compressed the overall quality for faster loading times
When it comes to video shooting, the vivo X300 Pro is undoubtedly dynamic. And it’s more than just that 10-bit Log feature.
The X200 Pro was only limited to 4K/60fps when shooting in Dolby Vision. Now, vivo’s X300 Pro steps it up a notch as it maxes out at 120fps — perfect for those slo-mo clips in crispier UHD quality.
If you’re the concert-goer type of fan, the X300 Pro is more than capable enough to produce those social media-ready snaps.
Stage Mode got improved as well with additional support for 4K/60fps resolution — Dolby Vision toggle not forgotten.
The X200 Pro never had any configurable options and only had a limiting 1080p / Full HD option.
I’ve fully used this camera mode when I went to BLACKPINK’s DEADLINE Tour in Bulacan.
The LBA (Lower Box A) Premium section I was seated isn’t the closest to the stage. Still, the X300 Pro had me capture shots and clips that still looked closer than what I’ve seen IRL.
Talk about concerts. It’s good to mention that both the base and Pro X300s have their dedicated Professional Imaging Grip Kit. This was something previously exclusive to the vivo X200 Ultra.
Graphics by Vincenz Lee | GadgetMatch
Sadly, despite anticipating for it, we were not given this special camera kit. I cannot vouch for something I haven’t tried at all.
The new Selfie X-pert?
The vivo X300 Pro not only takes great-looking mirrorfies, the improved selfie shooter provides ample amount of light and detail that the X200 Pro simply lacked.
Not only that selfie camera boasts a megapixel count more than 1.5x than its predecessor, FoV and color reproduction also seem more natural and less whitewashed.
That’s something I have experienced using the X200 Pro — and more of a reason why I refused taking selfies with it.
Speaking of color, the aforementioned color profiles as well as the bundled ZEISS Style Portrait lens bokeh are also applicable when shooting with the front camera.
X-quisite Design
If it ain’t broke, there’s no point of fixing it. However, vivo still tried refining the X200 Pro’s successor even further.
Gone are the slightly curved edges and the micro quad-curved display. This time, they have completely flattened everything out on the X300 Pro — camera bump, notwithstanding.
This form factor clearly reminds me of the base iPhones, premium midrange Androids, even the newest line of its sister brand, the OPPO Find X9 series.
In return, the X300 Pro is thinner at 7.99mm (versus 8.5mm of the X200 Pro). Though heft reduction isn’t significant as it weighs just 2 grams less (226 grams over 228 grams).
Comfort-wise, those flat edges felt sharp when held one-handedly. Although after several days of usage, I eventually got the hang of it.
I just miss the grippier hold of its predecessor. Also, the subtle curves I felt when swiping and navigating through the edges of its screen.
Good thing, the absence of a curved display means not having to buy any flimsy screen protectors that lack that curved edge coverage.
More so, “specialized” tempered glass that need UV glue (and light) in order for that undersonic fingerprint sensor to work properly.
Personally, I love the new look of X300 Pro’s monstrous camera bump.
How they trimmed down the camera rim in favor of a larger flat surface looks more sleek. Also, the new striped texture of the bump closely resembles a camera lens grip.
Then again, the dust magnet issue I’ve experienced before is still present in this new X-teration.
Only time will tell though how durable it is. So far, I’ve only managed it to drop it twice on a hard floor. So far, no unwanted dents and scathes found.
Speaking of, the X300 Pro still features that dual IP68 + IP69 water and dust resistance rating — a staple of Android flagships moving forward.
X-cellent Powerhouse
While the display curves are gone, vivo’s already superior display tech stays. It has an unchanged 6.78-inch LTPO AMOLED panel. I just assume the bigger screen size is reserved for the Ultra variant.
Display accuracy and calibration, as well as support for HDR content, are top-notch as one would expect. Whether the visuals are vibrant, bright, or just dark, the X300 Pro doesn’t go overboard and accurately shows the most natural output possible.
For that ultimate audiovisual pleasure, its stereo speakers are loud and full with that powerful bass to rock your banging solo concert sessions.
Found beneath this superior slab is none other than MediaTek’s latest and greatest Dimensity 9500 SoC based on a 3nm process.
The last iteration was already great to begin with. Let alone, this all-new Dimensity chip headlined by the X300 series.
Day-to-day tasks are buttery smooth with no room for lag. Switching (and even split-screen multitasking) through multiple apps is a breeze.
Playing games wasn’t an exception to the experience.
For instance, my all-time fave racing game, Racing Master, was able to run for two hours without throttling. That’s considering I set it in the most extreme graphics setting possible.
HoYoverse’s Zenless Zone Zero is able to run as well. But, due to the heavier nature of the game, except some overheating in the long run.
X-citing new OS
If you’ve read my X200 Pro review, I’ve boldly stated how Funtouch OS isn’t “fun” at all.
After several years of forcing to bear with that aging Android skin, vivo has finally decided to bring the latest flavor of OriginOS to global units.
Funtouch OS 15 was already fast as it is. OriginOS 6 made that even snappier with added fluidity.
The AI Tools are still there. From transcribing, call assist, all the way to gallery’s AI Erase, reflection removal, even AI UHD upscaling, they’re all there.
For me though, the best changes can be seen in its overhauled UI.
Heck, vivo even brought iPhone-like features — just with better customizations.
From the more customizable lock screen, resizable folder sizes, to the (finally) separate Notifications and Control Center.
For one, there’s the Origin Island that acts like Apple’s Dynamic Island. But, dragging texts, photos, or even files to the island itself gives you a range of apps for it to be shared.
The other one is the additional button on the X300 Pro’s left side. Unlike iOS’s limiting Action Button assignments, it’s more customizable here.
On my end, I’ve set the double-tap to quickly launch the camera in Snapshot mode for fast-firing shootouts. Holding the button fires up the flashlight behind. Unfortunately though, single-tapping the button doesn’t do anything.
Overall, OriginOS 6 seems and feels like a proper and polished experience.
X-panded Horizons
Another feature where I felt that I needed to have in global vivo phones is none other than the Office Kit.
As a long-time MacBook Pro user ever since my university days back in 2016, this feature is a gift from the gods.
Not only I can wirelessly transfer photos and videos, I can also receive notifications and even access Notes stored in my X300 Pro. Even when you take a freshly-captured photo, it will simply prompt you so you can easily share it.
Although you can remotely control your MacBook through the screen of the X300 Pro, that screen size simply won’t make the cut. This feature works best with a foldable or a tablet.
But hey, it’s still useful if you’re out and about and your higher-ups needed that document stored on your MacBook.
Given that nothing beats the cross-platform compatibility between iOS and macOS, it’s still a huge leap forward to be able to connect the vivo X300 Pro to an Apple device.
Lastly, OriginOS also has a new Private Space feature. It serves as a separate space from your main screen with apps and accounts that are totally unrelated to the one you’re mainly using.
This enables users to keep confidential files and information from prying eyes. I just hope users will use this feature into good use 👀.
More than enough even when you X-haust it
On paper, the battery of the vivo X300 Pro gets a battery boost from 6000mAh to 6500mAh.
While it doesn’t beat the hell out of the 7500mAh capacity of the Xiaomi 17 Pro Max, an increase is still an increase.
Using it moderately or ever so lightly, the vivo X300 Pro can last a full day (or even two) with staggering hours of standby time and plenty left in the tank.
Admittedly, I’ve used the cameras more than I expected during my two-week Vietnam getaway.
From shooting plethora of photos and barrage of vertical clips for Instagram Stories and possible use for Reels, the X300 Pro hogs that battery juice a lot.
I’ve even experienced some overheating in the long run. But, not to the point where the camera will shut off, as I was able to still shoot and record without ever halting.
That said, 90W FlashCharge is here to save the day. This time though, vivo has added a “FlashCharge High Speed” mode when using its bundled charger.
| FlashCharge High Speed | FlashCharge Regular | |
| START TIME (From 0%) | 12:14PM | 1:59PM |
| 3 minutes | 3% | 1% |
| 5 minutes | 6% | 3% |
| 10 minutes | 15% | 10% |
| 15 minutes | 23% | 18% |
| 20 minutes | 29% | 24% |
| 30 minutes | 50% | 38% |
| 40 minutes | 66% | 51% |
| 45 minutes | 75% | 57% |
| 50 minutes | 82% | 63% |
| 1 hour | 96% | 71% |
| 1 hour 10 minutes | – | 85% |
| 1 hour 15 minutes | – | 99% |
| END TIME | 1:17PM 1 hour 3 minutes |
3:15PM 1 hour 16 minutes |
Using non-vivo chargers and cables that are USB-C PD and/or PPS compliant will still top-up the phone fast — just with regular FlashCharge speeds.
While I haven’t tested wireless charging (which is my least favorite mode of charging), it’s worthy to point out that it was improved to 40W (from the conventional 30W).
Although the vivo X300 Pro has faster speeds than Qi2 or Qi2.2, it still doesn’t implement built-in magnets like the HMD Skyline or Pixel 10 series with Pixelsnap.
Don’t get me wrong. Support for magnetic wireless charging plus MagSafe accessories will still be possible. Only if you buy third-party cases with magnets on it.
Is the vivo X300 Pro your GadgetMatch?
It seems like 2025 has already reached the pinnacle of smartphones: superior camera system, gargantuan battery capacities with long-lasting endurance, faster than ever performance, displays and speakers that truly satisfy one’s audiovisual cravings.
The vivo X300 Pro is a great embodiment of that. Not only you get the best in class cameras, the smartphone itself is just a refined version of a smartphone that was already superior to begin with.
And if you’d ask me, the asking price of EUR 1099 / MYR 4699 / PhP 77,999 is more than justified — unlike how some brands aggressively slap overpriced tags on their barely flagship offerings 🙄
I just hope they consider bringing in a larger 1TB configuration (or maybe even 2TB) in the next lineup — especially for storage-hungry multimedia creatives like me who’s expected to shoot a lot of stills and clips in the foreseeable future.
All sentiments aside and without an ounce of doubt, the vivo X300 Pro is both a Swipe Right and a Super Swipe.
And, just like its older sibling, it also rightfully deserves the GadgetMatch Seal of Approval.
Entertainment
I finally saw BLACKPINK perform live for the first time
A first-hand concert experience of a BLINK after almost a decade of stanning them
I have been yearning to see and hear BLACKPINK perform live since 2016.
My long-time university friends (even acquaintances) can prove how hyped I was during the barrage of BLACKPINK’s first set of debut teasers. That excitement went through the roof the very moment BOOMBAYAH and WHISTLE / 휘파람 (Hwiparam) music videos got out on YouTube.
Honestly, it’s a huge core memory that still lingers to me.
Who’s Next: Pink Punk?! 🩷🤘🏼
Did you know? BLACKPINK was originally planned as a 9-member girl group dubbed “Pink Punk.”
Not until other trainees left and fate decided to let them be another 4-member girl group of YG Entertainment just after the agency’s first hit girl group, 2NE1.
Backtracking my tweets from my aging K-Pop stan account, I was actually waiting for the group’s highly-anticipated arrival as early as March 2015.
what if that “Who’s next” teaser will be Pink Punk……………………..
— . (@vincenzvangogh) March 24, 2015
* As a refresher, BLACKPINK made their official debut with ‘Square One’ EP last August 8, 2016 — more than a year after I made that tweet.
Again, my inner girl group geekiness speaks out. Other notable trainees include:
The remaining two are now soloists who still have a passion for music:
Near, Far, Wherever You Are 🎶
Despite being a hardcore BLINK since 2016, I only got quite a handful of BLACKPINK-related mementos with me.
For one, there’s the Samsung Galaxy A80 BLACKPINK Edition unboxing we did back in 2019 (which I personally shot and edited).
Last January 2020, two months ahead the lockdown, I was the few chosen ones invited to attend the Korean giant’s ‘Awesome Galaxy’ event in Jakarta, Indonesia.
As unfortunate as it seems, they never performed any songs and only held a mini fan gathering that time. That’s still my closest encounter with the hit 3rd gen K-girl group.
FINALLY: BLACKPINK has appeared on the stage. They will serve as judges for all the BLACKPINK cover groups from Southeast Asia that will perform here tonight at Samsung’s Awesome Live Event.#GalaxyA#GalaxyAwithBlackpink#GalaxyA51#GalaxyA71#AwesomeLive@GadgetMatch pic.twitter.com/wuq57fhWC5
— . (@vincenzvangogh) January 14, 2020
Pandemic halted the world, but it never stopped me from dedicating my very first vivo V-series phone review write-up in relation to BLACKPINK’s first full album promotion during that time.
Five years in, finally, here we are! The much-awaited concert of BLACKPINK is honestly one of the things I least expected to ever see in 2025.
D-DAY = DEADLINE-Day 💅
Longing sentiments aside, THE day has finally arrived.
I came to see BLACKPINK’s ‘DEADLINE’ Day 1 Stop at Philippine Arena in Bulacan.
After that dreamy golden hour, the arena’s pink stairs illuminated to showcase the group’s official color. A perfect complement to everyone’s black and pink fits.
No one asked but, I’m the type of person who often goes cashless — or someone who relies heavily on card payments and just keeps a handful of hard cash in my bag’s pockets.
Luckily, the existence of Maya cards (both the Maya Black Credit Card and the glitzy Pink Glitter Edition one) truly helped me replenish and fill-up that pre-concert void.
These cards have been helpful along my cashless purchases.
From hydrating myself with water (and iced coffee) after roaming around the arena, all the way to filling my appetite with pizza right before entering my designated concert section and seat, it’s been a hassle-free experience.
As easy as tapping your card towards the payment terminal, you’re off the hook and free to go whenever, wherever.
There was even a dedicated Visa booth that gave away freebies (such as a portable fan and power bank) just by showing the Maya card/s that you own.
Going beyond the arena’s doors, you’d be greeted by a lot of BLINKs holding their old and new versions of BLACKPINK lightsticks.
During this time, it was still not sinking in to me. I just sat on my assigned seat just so I can fully immerse myself in this massive concert crowd.
BLACK to the PINK 🖤🩷
After waiting for 15 more minutes, the lights and VCR finally went off while BLINKs screamed as loud as they can.
The set was started by the pre-pandemic hit Kill This Love followed by their second to the latest single Pink Venom (which was released three years ago, BTW).
I’m not saying that having a fewer-than-usual discography as a 9-year-old girl group is a good thing.
However, BLACKPINK’s ‘DEADLINE’ Tour still made me hear and relive their recent BLACK tracks like and Shut Down alongside classics such as How You Like That together with뚜두뚜두 (DDU-DU DDU-DU),
Even BOOMBAYAH was never forgotten — or the banger that made me stan them since the very beginning.
The group’s “Pink Side” was even shown through Lovesick Girls, Forever Young, 불장난 (Playing With Fire), 휘파람 (WHISTLE), even 마지막처럼 (As If It’s Your Last).
Their latest group release, JUMP, was also included in the setlist.
This is the part where everyone actually had the chance to stand up and jump high in the air — myself included in the narrative.
Un poco loco over solo 🤯
ICYMI, BLACKPINK already left YG Entertainment (their OG agency) and went all-out solo with their respective agencies.
That’s Jennie with ODD ATELIER, Lisa with LLOUD, Jisoo with BLISSOO, and lastly, Rosé with THEBLACKLABEL — which was founded by YG’s former producer, TEDDY, who released all hit songs for one of the biggest girl group acts of K-Pop.
Fortunately, despite separating ways, this DEADLINE tour made it possible to perform all of the members’ latest solo releases.
After researching for a bit, I’ve found out that the setlist was NOT fixed / definite in every stop.
DEADLINE’s Act 2 (at least in the first day) was introduced by Jisoo with Hugs & Kisses followed by Earthquake.
It was then followed by Lisa with When I’m With You and Rockstar.
After another OT4 group act, Jennie started Act 4 with the wonder hit Like Jennie mashed alongside ExtraL plus Starlight.
Finally, Rosé (or Rosie) ended the solo act with an acoustic performance of number one girl alongside a band performance of toxic till the end. Of course, APT. was never excluded in this set list as everyone chanted “아파트” (a-pa-teu) so hard and danced like crazy.
En route to the core ➡️
Just when everyone thought it already ended, my gut feeling told me a K-Pop concert wouldn’t be complete without an encore. I was right all along.
Once again, BLACKPINK shooketh the venue with another JUMP performance. This time, they’ve changed to another set of stage outfits — which looked more comfy and lax for all members.
After some fan service and cute fan interactions, they performed Really. My inner self gasped as it’s actually one of my favorite BLACKPINK b-sides ever.
As unfortunate as it gets, they had to end it with See U Later. Maybe that’s a sign that they will come back again — or maybe never?
From Concert Dreams to Reality ✨
I’m an aging veteran K-Pop stan for more than 16 years now.
Admittedly, no matter how dedicated I am when it comes to streaming a lot of groups’ music and performances on several platforms, I’ve never been the concert-goer type of fan.
I’m THAT “broke” type of fan during my elementary, high school, and even university days who relies heavily on granted scholarships. Thus, not having that severe FOMO that most K-Pop fans truly dire and desire.
Still, seeing BLACKPINK for the first time ever since I stanned them last August 2016 has always been a long-time dream.
Not only I get to see and hear Jennie, Lisa, Jisoo, and Rosé perform live, I’ve finally crossed out one thing out of my bucket list after nine long years of being a BLINK.
What a way to truly end my year in advance (and belatedly celebrate my birthday more than a month ago 😅).
Some moments slip away before we’re ready.
The blink. The blur. The half-smile lost to motion.
The HUAWEI nova 14 Pro wants to fix all that because it calls itself the King of AI Selfie. So we brought it along for an afternoon out to see if it could actually keep up.
Bowling isn’t the easiest place for a selfie. The lights shift. People move fast. And I never stay still. But the 50MP Front AI Portrait Dual Camera doesn’t flinch.
With Ultra Speed Snapshot on the front camera, it freezes movement better than most phones I’ve used. Mid-shot. Mid-laugh. Even mid-blink. It just catches the moment.
There’s also the 0.8 to 5x selfie zoom — still the only one of its kind. It lets me frame selfies the way I want: wider when friends jump in, tighter when it’s just me.
And if someone blinks, it’s fine. AI Best Expression lets you fix one person’s look without retaking everything. Pick their best eyes, best smile, best moment.
You also get three beauty styles: Natural, Delicate, and Stylish. I kept it light, but each one still looks closer to real skin instead of an overly filtered version of yourself.
My favorite AI tool might be AI Remove. Shoot first, fix later. The phone cleans up distractions — stray people, signs, objects — and leaves behind the photo you meant to take.
And when my hands were full at the café after, AI Gesture Control helped me browse without touching the screen. Simple gestures. Quick page flips.
On the rear, the nova 14 Pro steps up with its Ultra Chroma Camera. HUAWEI says it uses 1.5 million spectral channels to get color right. And honestly, the tones feel closer to what I saw in person.
Motion is where the rear camera surprised me. Dual Shutter technology blends long and short exposures in one shot. Action stays sharp without making the whole frame darker.
And because the aperture goes from F1.4 to F4.0, you can change depth of field depending on the moment. Creamy background for portraits. More detail when you need it.
The nova line has always been about reliability, and this one holds up. You get a 5500mAh battery and 100W SuperCharge Turbo. Fast top-ups. Easy all-day life.
Up front, there’s the 6.78-inch Flawless Quad-Curved Display. Smooth edges. Easy on the eyes. A polished look that still feels practical.
The nova 14 Pro sticks to the series’ youthful identity. Lightweight. Friendly curves. And the new Star Orbit Ring gives it that recognizable nova look — clean and symmetrical.
It also supports Wi-Fi 7, optional NearLink for device tracking, and has a five-star drop-resistance certification. Plus IP65 dust and water resistance.
The HUAWEI nova 14 Pro feels like what the nova line has always been: a feature-packed mid-ranger built for young adults who want a phone that simply keeps up. AI tools that fix your shots. Cameras that freeze moments. Battery that lasts.
If you want a selfie-focused phone that can keep up with days like this, this is the nova you’re looking for.
HUAWEI nova 14 Series — The King of AI Selfie
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