Accessories

TP-Link Archer Air R5 and E5: For the minimalist

As sleek as they come

Published

September 29, 2023

GadgetMatch

Don’t you just love it when certain tech around your home just blends in, not drawing any unnecessary attention to itself? That appears to be the primary design focus of the TP-Link Archer Air R5 and E5. It’s a Wi-Fi router and range extender combo.

Unboxing

We unboxed the TP-Link Archer Air R5 and E5 (or just R5 and E5). Other than the flat, white units, you’ll see some documentation, cables, power adapter, and adhesives inside the box.

Watch the unboxing.

@gadgetmatch Unboxing the TP-Link Archer Air R5 and E5! #router #rangeextender ♬ original sound – GadgetMatch

Understated and simple

Right off the bat, you’ll notice that there isn’t much to the R5 and E5, and that’s by the design. TP-Link specifically made this router and range extender combo to blend into your home. No antennas sticking out, just a couple of slabs that you can wall mount.

Set-up is also just as simple as the devices look. You simply plug the adapter, hook it up to your modem using the included ethernet cable. We were ready to use the router in less than 10 minutes.

One thing to note is that the cords of the power adapters are rather short. Same is true with the included ethernet cable which isn’t as much of an issue as the power adapters. This means you have to be a little creative with where you’ll place these. Depending on the power outlet situation in your home, you might have to buy a few new extension cords to achieve your preferred look.

The E5 was a little more troublesome to set-up at first. But this was because we plugged it a few paces away from the R5. To avoid the hiccups we went through, make sure you set the E5 up right next to the R5. After the set-up, you can move the E5 to maximize its range-extending capabilities. From there, it’s all about just following the prompts on the Tether app.

Tether app

Yes, this router-range extender combo comes with an app. The Tether app is TP-Link’s own and is compatible with their devices. The app makes the set-up as breezy as possible. If you have any trouble setting things up, just simply follow the prompts and instructions on the app and you should be good to go.

You can consider the app as your main hub for making the most of your R5 and E5. Here, you can make sure that the devices’ firmware are updated. You can also monitor all the gadgets connected to them.

A neat feature is that you can create profiles in the app. Each profile assigns a role for traditional family members. This is a great tool for parents who want to limit the time and content that their children can access.

Performance

The R5 and E5 are WiFi 6 capable. It’s tech that’s been around for about half a decade now but there’s still plenty who are missing out on its capabilities. For instance, most modems issued by local Internet Service Providers (ISPs) are still a generation behind.

With WiF 6 capable routers, you’re bound to experience a boost in speeds. Take us for instance, the service plan we’re subscribed to is supposed to max out at around 250 mbps. And multiple speed tests, when connected only directly to the modem, returned results that hover around 210 mbps for download speeds and 201 mbps upload speeds.

After connecting to the R5, the speeds we were getting literally doubled. Tested multiple times in multiple days since setting up the router, we would average 413 mbps download speeds and 419 mbps upload speeds. We’re particularly happy about the upload speeds given that we do have to upload videos a lot these days.

We didn’t particularly need the E5 since we live in a tiny apartment. But the extended range came in handy when we wanted to step outside and get some fresh air from the common area balcony. It’s a few paces away from our unit and was previously completely out of reach by our Wi-Fi. That isn’t the case anymore with the E5.

The R5 and E5 have the OneMesh feature. What it does is seamlessly move the connection of your smartphone or laptop to the nearest Wi-Fi connection. This means uninterrupted browsing as you move around.

Additional services

The R5 is also compatible with the use of VPN or Virtual Private Networks. This helps shield your IP address and provides a generally more secure way to browse the Internet. Another benefit of VPN use is you can switch the location of your IP and gain access to streaming app content you otherwise would not have access to.

For its part, TP-Link offers security services on the Tether app. We didn’t see the need to subscribe but it’s there as an option if you feel you need to add extra layers of protection.

Is the TP-Link R5 and E5 your GadgetMatch?

Truthfully, the TP-Link Archer Air R5 and E5 is easy to recommend. This Wi-Fi router and range extender combo is perfect for people who like their devices to be understated and simple. The size of this pair also means they’re easy to fit even in tiny living spaces.

The R5 and E5 perform as advertised with TP-Link offering additional security options for your peace of mind. This is a perfect addition for any household looking to improve their Internet Connection without having to upgrade their ISP plan.

The TP-Link R5 retails for PhP 6,590 while the TP-Link E5 retails for 5,590.

Accessories

JBL unwraps the season with prizes that go beyond powerful sound

Celebrate the holidays with Unwrap the Unexpected promo and an unforgettable Sound Fest!

Published

November 17, 2025

GadgetMatch

The holidays always feel louder when music fills the room.

This year, JBL is giving Filipinos a reason to turn the volume even higher with its Unwrap the Unexpected promo, a Christmas celebration that rewards every purchase with the chance to take home surprises that go from everyday essentials to life-changing grand prizes.

A holiday treat with every purchase

From November 1 to December 31, anyone who buys a participating JBL product from authorized stores or official online partners can register their receipt at jblpromo.com.ph.

The process is simple. You make a purchase, upload your proof of payment, and enter your details before the year ends. Each entry becomes your chance to win a lineup of prizes that includes a brand-new Tesla Model 3.

The promo also offers rewards such as a Vespa S125, a Samsung Galaxy Z Flip7, and a Lenovo Legion 5 gaming laptop, along with dozens of other exciting items.

Free pass to the biggest JBL music experience

Every successful registration comes with a free Concert Pass to JBL Sound Fest 2025.

The event happens on December 6 at Parklinks Open Grounds in Pasig City. Registration for the pass is open until December 6 at 10 a.m.

The festival is set to gather some of the most celebrated OPM artists in one night of energy, lights, and crowd-shaking sound.

Rico Blanco, Cup of Joe, HORI7ON, Flow G, and Kat DJ will take the stage, along with other performers ready to deliver a holiday concert that lives up to the JBL name.

Expect a night built around powerful music, vibrant production, and a shared love for sound.

How to join

To participate, purchase any qualified JBL product from participating retailers nationwide and register at jblpromo.com.ph by December 31.

Make sure to claim your Sound Fest pass before December 6 at 10 a.m. Full promo mechanics and registration details are available on jblpromo.com.ph.

Accessories

SKG makes its official Philippine debut

Smart wellness solutions now available nationwide

Published

November 15, 2025

GadgetMatch

SKG is now officially in the Philippines. The company is bringing its lineup of smart wellness devices to help Filipinos manage fast-paced days with better rest and recovery.

The global wellness tech brand is now present in over 50 countries. They offer portable massagers and relaxation tools built with ergonomic design, advanced engineering, and a user-first approach.

SKG Philippines launches with a full range of products tailored for modern lifestyles.

The flagship model: G7 Pro-Fold Neck Massager

Leading the lineup is the G7 Pro-Fold Neck Massager with Heat. This is SKG’s signature device and the only foldable neck massager on the market. It comes in a premium leather finish and full smart customization.

It uses dual-mode TENS and Vibration Powered Massage Technology. This strengthens muscles, improve circulation, and deliver targeted nerve relaxation. For deeper relief, its heat therapy system combines a 6000Hz pulse matrix, graphene heating, and 630nm red light to penetrate muscles up to 10mm.

Its award-winning foldable design supports mobility, making it ideal for long flights and demanding workdays.

The SKG G7 Pro-Fold Neck Massager with Heat is priced at PhP 10,999 SRP in SKG physical stores and on Shopee, Lazada, and TikTok Shop.

A more accessible option: 4356E Neck Massager

For students and budget-conscious users, the 4356E Neck Massager offers a more affordable way to experience SKG’s self-care tech. It combines TENS and EMS to relax nerves, strengthen muscles, and support daily recovery.

It also includes a 42°C hot compress, three massage modes, and 15 intensity levels, backed by a reliable battery and a one-button voice prompt for ease of use.
The SKG 4356E Neck Massager retails for PhP 2,999 SRP on Shopee, Lazada, and TikTok Shop.

Portable premium comfort: ES500 Eye Massager

The ES500 Eye Massager brings premium eye care to frequent travelers, busy professionals, and anyone looking for a relaxing end to long days. It blends built-in heating pads, soft PU leather, and Bluetooth audio in a lightweight, foldable design.

Ceramic air pumps keep noise levels at just 45dB, while its 1200mAh battery offers up to 60 minutes of use. The ES500’s five-mode hot compress system (38–45°C) helps reduce eye strain, puffiness, and fatigue.

The ES500 Eye Massager is available for PhP 6,499 SRP on Shopee, Lazada, and TikTok Shop.

Accessories

Apple’s new iPhone Pocket is a stylish way to carry your iPhone

This time, woven into the fabric of a modern accessory

Published

November 12, 2025

Michael Josh Villanueva

Decades after dressing Steve Jobs, Issey Miyake’s legacy returns to Apple

Fashion meets tech — again.

Apple’s latest creation isn’t a new iPhone, but something to wear it in. Announced today, the iPhone Pocket is a collaboration between Apple and Japanese fashion house ISSEY MIYAKE, reimagining the way we carry one of the world’s most recognizable devices.

While this is the first official partnership between the two brands, Miyake’s influence has long been stitched into Apple’s story.

The minimalist yet iconic uniform that is Steve Jobs’ black turtlenecks were custom-made by Miyake himself.

Back in the 1980s, Jobs even approached Miyake with an idea: to design a uniform for Apple employees. That plan never took off, but decades later, the spirit of collaboration finds new form — not in a shirt, but in a beautifully woven accessory.

The iPhone Pocket draws inspiration from Miyake’s Pleats Please and Homme Plissé lines, famed for its permanently pleated, wrinkle-free designs.

Made in Japan, and co-designed with the Apple Design Studio, each bag is crafted from a single piece of innovative 3D-knit fabric that’s both stretchy and feather-light. It’s designed to fit any iPhone and, as Apple notes, “other pocketable items.”

Available in two strap lengths, it can be worn as a shoulder bag (or slung on an arm) or crossbody. The color palette is distinctly Miyake: lemon (neon yellow), mandarin (bright orange), purple, pink, peacock (turquoise), sapphire (rich blue), cinnamon (brown), and black.

Longtime fans might also feel a nostalgic nod to the iPod Socks — a whimsical early-2000s Apple accessory that turned practicality into playful design.

The iPhone Pocket launches Friday, November 14, as a limited release, available online and in select Apple Stores.

In New York, it makes its debut in SoHo which is Apple’s outpost in the city’s fashion district. Prices start at $149.95 for the short strap and $229.95 for the long strap.