Accessories

Samsung Galaxy Buds: The good and the bad

It takes two buds to tango

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We have to give lots of credit to Apple for making truly wireless earbuds mainstream. Not only are AirPods incredibly convenient, they’re easy to pair with any iPhone. But what are Android users left with?

The closest alternative so far are Samsung’s Galaxy Buds. They’re sportier too and fit inside a wider variety of ear types.

That’s only a fragment of the whole story, however. Two of our resident music lovers gathered their thoughts after several weeks with the Galaxy Buds.

Let’s see what these two buds have to say.

Producer Rodneil Quiteles

Marvin: I’ve had lots of experience with Bluetooth earphones in the past, but truly wireless earbuds? Not so much. I’ve gotta say, though: The Galaxy Buds are so convenient to use.

Rodneil: I believe this is my second or third truly wireless earbuds, and I have to agree, wireless is truly convenient! What did you like best about the Galaxy Buds?

Marvin: I love how it pairs so quickly to even my non-Samsung smartphone. Its battery life is cool too — up to six hours per charge, with an additional seven from the case. What about you?

Rodneil: As superficial as this sounds, I like how it doesn’t look like I have weird stuff sticking out of my ears! Haha. I also like how your interaction with the Galaxy Buds is limited to just tapping, so there’s not a lot for someone like me to think about.

Editor Marvin Velasco

Marvin: Actually, I’m not a fan of the touch controls. They don’t always work, especially when I try to skip tracks with a double tap. Don’t even get me started with the triple tap.

Rodneil: Oh right! I actually did have that problem. To be honest, I ended up not having to tap the thing too much and just shifted to controlling everything from my phone.

Marvin: Did you have any latency issues with your Bluetooth connection? This happened to me a couple of times, even while connected to my Galaxy S10+. Software updates (which come frequently, fortunately) gradually fixed this, though.

Rodneil: Yes, I noticed that happened. For me specifically, I experienced those while I was in a moving vehicle and during the time I used it while playing basketball. I wasn’t bothered by it as much, though.

Marvin: Yup, definitely not a deal-breaker.

Rodneil: But does it have any deal-breakers for you?

Marvin: I wish I got the black one, to be honest. The white is fine at first, but after a few weeks of use, I noticed some discoloration.

Rodneil: I normally prefer black over white, but I’ve been changing things up lately and actually like the white one, discoloration and all.

Marvin: Colors aside, I like how the Buds come with different silicon adjustments. It’s something completely missing from the AirPods, which makes Samsung’s earbuds more universally compatible with ears.

Rodneil: Yep! I tried putting on each one to test which works best for me, but I ended up with the default since it fits my ears perfectly. It didn’t drop once while I was playing, which was a major concern when I first started using it.

Marvin: I actually use my Buds without wing tips, and they fit perfectly. That matters a lot, because I’m able to maximize the audio quality, which is great for truly wireless earbuds, by the way.

Rodneil: I was surprised with the audio quality actually. It was so much better than the Treblab X2 I tried a while back. I expected a similar experience but this one was better. I listened to the playlist I made for hands-on sessions like this and I was completely immersed in the sound.

Marvin: Speaking of sound quality, funny story: I didn’t realize how important the Galaxy Wear app is until I was two weeks into using the Galaxy Buds. It was there where I could adjust the equalizer and get more bass out of it, which boosted the quality tremendously.  

Rodneil: I figured this out right away! I tried to play with the settings for a while but I’ve settled with increasing the bass since that’s what was most lacking when I first tried it on. On the Galaxy Wear app, you can also change the tap and hold functions to control the volume, but I opted to make it switch to ambient mode which I need more when I step out with the Galaxy Buds on.

Marvin: What’s great is that I could pair the Buds with any phone without needing to download the app first. But, well, I wish I did sooner to get the most out of the equalizer and extra settings.

Rodneil: Well, I wasn’t able to pair it right away with the Honor View 20 I’m currently using. That’s why I knew I had to get the app. After that, I had zero trouble pairing. I’m not sure how to control the pairing, though. One time I was out with a “friend” who had a Galaxy S10E and it was trying to automatically pair with her phone.

Marvin: So, would you recommend the Galaxy Buds to your friends given the price of US$ 129?

Rodneil: For anyone who wants a truly wireless experience, this ticks all of the boxes for me. The pairing convenience along with the surprising sound quality, for me, makes it a relatively easy recommendation.

Marvin: There are definitely cheaper options out there, but I feel the build quality and convenience Samsung injected into the Buds. Plus, it’s more affordable than its closest rival, the AirPods. What else is there to dislike?

Rodneil: My only concern is this pair is really easy to lose when out of its case. If you’re a klutz like me, I suggest you only put these on while in a familiar location. You should also make sure you get a pouch or have a designated spot in your bag where you can put it if you can’t reach the case right away.

Marvin: Otherwise, you’d use these over traditional wired earphones?

Rodneil: I want to permanently end my relationship with wires, so yes, I’ll choose this over traditional ones every single time.

Marvin: LOL, okay.

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Accessories

Secretlab brings Pikachu, Gengar, and Eevee to its Pokémon gaming chair collection

Pokémon-themed gaming chairs

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November 13, 2026

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Secretlab Pokemon

Secretlab is bringing some iconic Pokémon to your gaming setup. The Secretlab Pokémon Collection introduces three new TITAN Evo gaming chairs inspired by Pikachu, Gengar, and Eevee.

Each chair features distinct design elements inspired by its respective Pokémon. The collection also incorporates microsuede and velour detailing for added texture and depth.

Fans can find several hidden details throughout the designs. These include each Pokémon’s Type symbol and Pokédex number on the backrests. The collection also pays tribute to the original 151 Pokémon.

Three Pokémon, three distinct designs

The Secretlab TITAN Evo Pokémon Pikachu Edition puts everyone’s favorite Electric-type Pokémon front and center.

Pikachu appears in plush velour detailing against bold Electric-type symbols. The chair features 11 unique Pikachu motifs across its side wings. A black-to-yellow gradient completes its overall design.

Fans can also spot the differences between male and female Pikachu.

Meanwhile, the Secretlab TITAN Evo Pokémon Gengar Edition embraces a darker aesthetic. Gengar takes center stage on the backrest alongside Ghost- and Poison-type symbols.

Gastly and Haunter also appear across the side wings. A spectral purple gradient ties the entire design together.

Finally, the Secretlab TITAN Evo Pokémon Eevee Edition celebrates Eevee and its eight evolutions.

Eevee appears on the backrest with plush velour detailing. The chair features warm cream-and-brown gradients and a Normal-type symbol. Its design also incorporates all eight Eeveelutions, from Vaporeon to Sylveon.

The TITAN Evo experience

Beyond their Pokémon-inspired designs, all three chairs retain the Secretlab TITAN Evo’s ergonomic features.

The chair uses medium-firm, patent-pending cold-cure foam. This material contours to the body while providing weight distribution and pressure relief.

Its sculpted pebble seat base features gently sloping side wings. These guide users toward the middle while leaving room to switch sitting positions.

The TITAN Evo also features 4-way L-ADAPT lumbar support. It moves up, down, in, and out to accommodate the natural curvature of the lower back.

Secretlab’s SoftWeave Plus fabric provides a soft, breathable knit surface. Its construction also allows detailed Pokémon motifs to appear throughout the material.

Availability

The Secretlab Pokémon Collection features the Pikachu, Gengar, and Eevee Editions of the TITAN Evo.

Interested buyers can learn more about the collection through Secretlab’s official website, Shopee, and Lazada.

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Accessories

Power Mac Center x ADAM elements pop-up offers holiday deals

Tech gifts worth discovering

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November 12, 2026

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Holiday shopping doesn’t always have to mean big-ticket purchases. Sometimes, the most thoughtful gifts are the little things that make everyday life easier.

If you’re looking for practical tech gifts ahead of the holiday rush, visit the Power Mac Center x ADAM elements pop-up at SM North EDSA The Block.

Running from November 12 to 18, 2026, the pop-up showcases the latest accessories from award-winning lifestyle brand ADAM elements. Visitors can also enjoy interactive game stations, take on fun challenges, and win exclusive prizes.

“A tech accessory is most valuable when it works seamlessly with the way people live, often by addressing the small inconveniences encountered throughout the day. Power Mac Center and our long-time partner ADAM elements spearhead this pop-up to give our customers a fun opportunity to discover practical, personal gifts before the holiday rush,” said PMC Director for Marketing and Product Management Joey Alvarez.

ADAM elements offers accessories for different needs and lifestyles. Its latest selection helps shoppers find thoughtful gifts that complement their recipients’ routines and existing devices.

For the always-connected

People who constantly rely on their devices need reliable ways to keep everything powered and accessible. Compact chargers, charging stands, and multi-device charging solutions make excellent everyday companions.

Consider the ADAM elements MAG 25 Qi2 25W 2-in-1 Pocket Charging Stand (PHP 2,990) or NX45 GaN 45W Dual USB-C Compact Charger (PHP 1,590). Both offer convenient charging solutions without taking up too much space.

For the always-on-the-go

Frequent travelers and people who are always out and about need accessories that keep them connected. Portable power banks and foldable chargers help keep devices ready throughout the day.

The ADAM elements Mag 3 Ultra Qi2 25W 3-in-1 Foldable Charger (PHP 5,990) offers a convenient charging solution for multiple devices. Another option is the VIONTA Q Portable Power Bank with Built-In Cable 10000mAh (PHP 1,890).

For the everyday enthusiast

Some gifts make downtime more enjoyable. For music lovers and entertainment enthusiasts, the ADAM elements MUCAPSO M1 Pocket Bluetooth Charging Speaker (PHP 1,990) brings portable audio into the mix.

Its compact design makes it a convenient companion for listening at home or while out and about.

Score exclusive deals at Power Mac Center

Beyond discovering new accessories, shoppers can enjoy exclusive offers throughout the Power Mac Center x ADAM elements pop-up.

Customers can get up to 30% off selected ADAM elements products, including:

  • ADAM elements Mag 3 Ultra Qi2 25W 3-in-1 Foldable Charger
  • ADAM elements X45C GaN 45W Dual USB-C Compact Charger
  • ADAM elements VIONTA E10 10000mAh Solid-State Power Bank with Foldable Stand
  • ADAM elements MUCAPSO M1 Pocket Bluetooth Charging Speaker

Customers can also get a free power bank when they purchase participating power banks. The promotional list includes the ADAM elements GRAVITY C5 Magnetic Wireless Charging Ultra Slim Power Bank in Blue.

Shoppers can also receive exclusive ADAM elements freebies based on their total single-receipt purchase:

Minimum spend Freebie
PHP 1,999 Hardcase Storage or MS100 Cable
PHP 2,999 OMNIA P33 GaN USB-C 33W Wall Charger
PHP 3,999 T35L 35W Universal Travel Adapter with Built-In USB-C Cable
PHP 5,999 VIONTA T1S 10000mAh Solid-State Power Bank with Built-In Cable or VIONTA Q10 Qi2 Ultra-Slim Power Bank 10000mAh
PHP 9,999 Mag 3 Ultra Qi2 25W 3-in-1 Foldable Charger

Discover ADAM elements at Power Mac Center

Established in 2013, ADAM elements develops peripheral accessories for Apple devices. The brand combines three core principles: Life Application, Creativity, and Aesthetics.

Its lineup includes wireless charging stations, fast chargers, cables, power banks, hubs, and flash drives for iOS. The brand has also earned international recognition, including Germany’s Red Dot Award.

Customers can find ADAM elements products at Power Mac Center stores across the Philippines.

Whether you’re shopping for someone else or upgrading your everyday setup, the pop-up offers plenty of practical finds. Visit the Power Mac Center x ADAM elements pop-up at SM North EDSA The Block from November 12 to 18, 2026.

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Accessories

Is it comfortable to sleep on a Secretlab Atlas?

You can grab the chair now through Secretlab’s 11.11 sale!

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November 10, 2026

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The biggest reason to get an ergonomic chair is to stay comfortable while working or playing all day. But how about getting that well-deserved siesta after lunch or falling asleep on your chair after a long day of gaming?

The new Secretlab Atlas is more than just a chair for when you’re busy. It’s a perfect chair for dozing off and taking it easy.

Today, you can grab the Atlas and everything else from Secretlab to complete your workstation during Secretlab’s 11.11 sale on Shopee. You can enjoy discounts of up to PhP 9,300. You can also stack and save vouchers of up to PhP 1,500, plus additional vouchers from Shopee. Once purchased, customers can grab free gifts worth up to PhP 7,500. Finally, it’s free shipping!

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