Seagate Game Drive M.2 SSD for PS5 review: easy to recommend

Seagate Game Drive M.2 SSD for PS5: One-minute review

If you're looking for one of the best SSDs for PS5, then you can’t go wrong with the Seagate Game Drive M.2 SSD for PS5. This officially licensed drive may look a little plain compared to some of the flashier options out there, like the WD Black SN850 or Samsung 990 Pro, but it still delivers great performance where it counts. 

It exceeds the drive specifications recommended by Sony and recorded a solid 6,459 MB/s read speed using the PlayStation 5’s own internal benchmark. In real terms, this means no noticeable decrease in the performance of any of the best PS5 games compared to the console’s internal storage. It also helps facilitate speedy and smooth game transfers and installations.

For added peace of mind, the drive comes with a generous five-year limited warranty out of the box. The PS5 first went on sale in November 2020, so, judging by the lifespan of previous Sony consoles, that half-decade warranty should be enough to see you through the rest of the console generation.

The 1TB model is readily available at a range of retailers and comes in at a good price in both the US and UK. While it’s also easy to recommend the 2TB model in the US, it’s a little harder to find in the UK and can therefore be quite expensive in the region. Still, like other SSDs, the Seagate Game Drive M.2 SSD for PS5 frequently receives excellent discounts around major sales periods, so it's always one to watch out for. 

There is also a 4TB model available, which goes for around $389.99 (roughly £328.36) though stock seems incredibly limited. This 4TB model also doesn't seem to be sold at all in the UK right now. This is a real shame, especially when we’re seeing more and more even higher-capacity 8TB drives enter the market such as the new 8TB WD Black SN850P. 

With the file sizes of some of the most popular PS5 releases only increasing, those who want to store a larger number of games would be better served by easier-to-find alternatives or even one of the best PS5 external hard drives instead.

(Image credit: Future)

Seagate Game Drive M.2 SSD for PS5: Price and availability

• 1TB is $99.99 / £99.90
• 2TB is $159.99 / £159.90
• 4TB is around $389.99 

The 1TB Seagate Game Drive M.2 SSD for PS5 for $99.99 / £99.90 while the 2TB model is $159.99 / £159.90. Stock of the 2TB capacity seems quite scarce in the UK, though so it often appears above that price. 

While the 1TB drive is a very solid value in both regions, when you bear in mind its officially licensed status, you should certainly avoid purchasing the 2TB model in the UK until it is available at around RRP.

The 4TB variant goes for around $389.99 but is not easy to find and does not appear to be sold in the UK. This is definitely a shame and will be a dealbreaker for those who want to keep many large games, like Call of Duty: Modern Warfare 3 or Horizon Forbidden West, installed at the same time. 

Seagate Game Drive M.2 SSD for PS5: Specs

Seagate Game Drive M.2 SSD for PS5: Design and features

Even by PS5 SSD standards, the design of the Seagate Game Drive M.2 SSD for PS5 is definitely on the plain side. It comes fitted with a very boxy heatsink that makes the drive look like a small black rectangle attached to some connector pins. It’s quite a thick heatsink too, though I was pleased to find that I fit in the PS5’s M.2 SSD bay perfectly. 

While there are no LEDs present here, the heatsink is decorated with a small blue groove and a white Seagate logo. I can’t deny that I would have appreciated something a little more exciting, but it’s hard to complain when you’re ultimately not going to see the drive when it’s in use anyway. 

The retail packaging is good and contains an easy-to-open plastic case with plenty of padding to keep the drive snug and protected on the move - always great to see. The box features prominent PS5 branding, plus some basic information about the drive’s five-year warranty that directs you to the Seagate website.

(Image credit: Future)

Seagate Game Drive M.2 SSD for PS5: Performance

The performance of the Seagate Game Drive M.2 SSD for PS5 isn’t groundbreaking by any means, but still very good on the whole. It reached a 6,459 MB/s read speed with the internal PS5 SSD benchmark and performed well on a range of real-world file transfer tests.

Copying a 55.86GB installation of Zenless Zone Zero from internal storage took just 24 seconds while 50.49GB of Star Wars Outlaws was moved in just 21.5 seconds. Similar performance was observed with larger games, like the 100.1GB Final Fantasy 16 which was copied in only 43 seconds. 

Transferring smaller titles was also a breeze. The 30.71GB Alone in the Dark remake was fully copied in just 14.8 seconds and the 9.92GB Asphalt Legends Unite took only 6 seconds. Finally, the miniscule 1.65GB Angry Birds Star Wars was fully copied in 1 second. Jumping into all of these games, loading times were snappy and on par with those when playing from the PS5’s internal storage. These figures are only slightly behind the times that I recorded on the high-end Samsung 990 Pro, so great results overall. 

I also did not observe any major performance decrease over periods of extended use. The drive was able to copy multiple large games without breaking a sweat, which suggests that the included heatsink works effectively.

(Image credit: Future)

Should I buy the Seagate Game Drive M.2 SSD for PS5?

Buy it if...

You want an officially licensed drive
You can’t go wrong with an officially licensed PS5 SSD. The Seagate Game Drive M.2 SSD for PS5 is within the specification recommended by Sony, includes a heatsink out of the box, and fits easily in the console.

You want a 1TB PS5 SSD
The 1TB model of the Seagate Game Drive M.2 SSD for PS5 is widely available and comes in at a very reasonable price. If you’re searching for a 1TB drive for your console, then this is definitely one to keep in mind.

Don't buy it if...

You need a 4TB drive
While there is a 4TB model of the Seagate Game Drive M.2 SSD for PS5, it is hard to find. You should consider other more readily available options if you would prefer or need a 4TB SSD.

Also consider...

If you’re not sold on the Seagate Game Drive M.2 SSD for PS5, then consider these two compelling alternatives.

Samsung 990 Pro
The Samsung 990 Pro is the PS5 SSD to beat. It has a great design and boasts blazing fast speeds. Just bear in mind that it is more expensive than the Seagate Game Drive M.2 SSD for PS5.

For more information, check out our full Samsung 990 Pro review

WD Black SN850
The WD Black SN850 is an older model that is slower than the Seagate Game Drive M.2 SSD for PS5. Still, it’s within the recommended spec and could be a good alternative if you find it on sale.

For more information, check out our full WD Black SN850 review.

(Image credit: Future)

How I tested the Seagate Game Drive M.2 SSD for PS5

• Fitted to my personal PS5 
• Used to store and transfer games 
• Used in-built PS5 benchmark 

I tested the Seagate Game Drive M.2 SSD for PS5 for a week, fitting it to my personal PS5 console and spending a day running a wide variety of tests. I recorded the data from the in-built PS5 storage benchmark, plus copied a wide variety of games to the drive. I was careful to test the drive with a good range of different file sizes in order to assess its performance.

Throughout my time with the drive, I compared the experience and its design to my hands-on testing of other PS5 SSD drives. This included the Samsung 990 Pro, WD Black SN850, WD Black SN850P, and more.

Read more about how we test

First reviewed August 2024.

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System76 Darter Pro Linux laptop review

In a world where people primarily think of Mac and Windows as the two main operating systems for computers, there are other options available for those with specific needs or who want to break free from the constraints of these operating systems. Linux has remained a popular choice for developers, tech enthusiasts, and privacy-conscious users, and the demand for high-quality hardware in this realm has never been greater. 

Like all the best Linux laptops we've tested, the Darter Pro is designed with these users and Linux in mind, making it a strong option in a market filled with alternatives. System76, a company known for its dedication to open-source software and user empowerment, offers a machine that not only meets the technical requirements of its users but also reflects the principles of the Linux community. Whether you need a robust development environment, a secure computing experience, or a reliable laptop that works seamlessly, the Darter Pro offers a top-notch solution that distinguishes it from other Linux-compatible laptops.

(Image credit: Collin Probst // Future)

System76 Darter Pro: Unboxing & first impressions

The Darter Pro comes in standard, minimalistic packaging that includes the laptop, charger (with a barrel connector, though this can also be charged via USB-C), and standard documentation. It's well-packaged, secure, and straightforward. The laptop is constructed from alloy and plastic, giving it a sturdy yet lightweight feel. The lid and bottom panels are made of magnesium, while the bezel and palm rest are plastic.

(Image credit: Collin Probst // Future)

Setting up the Darter Pro is straightforward, with options to configure the system upon the first boot. Users can opt to set up full-disk encryption and select their preferred language and keyboard layout. Even for users less familiar with the System76 proprietary OS, Pop!_OS, or Linux, setup is easy to start.

For more options, check out our review of the best Linux distro.

System76 Darter Pro: Design and Build Quality

Specs

Processor: Up to Intel Core Ultra 7 with 16 cores
RAM: Up to 96GB DDR5
Storage: Dual M.2 slots supporting up to 8TB SSD
Display: Available in 14” and 16” FHD+ (1920x1200) with a 16:10 aspect ratio and matte finish
Graphics: Integrated Intel Arc graphics, sufficient for most tasks but not suitable for demanding gaming
Battery: 73 Wh Li-Ion battery, providing up to 9 hours of usage
Operating System: Pre-installed with Pop!_OS or Ubuntu

The Darter Pro is not an ultralight laptop like some computers. It's made of a magnesium alloy and plastic combination, which balances weight and durability well. However, users should be cautious with the hinges. It's a bit heavy but easy to toss in a backpack and take wherever you go. The 14-inch variant weighs around 3.5 lbs and the 16-inch variant around 4.25 lbs. The sleek, minimalistic design with a matte finish looks clean, though a giant System76 logo is in the center of the laptop's lid. Regardless, it appeals to professional users with the sleek look many laptop manufacturers seek. This laptop will fit right in with the other available options.

(Image credit: Collin Probst // Future)

System76 Darter Pro: In use

At this point, I've had this laptop in rotation for a couple of days, and I've used it as my dedicated computer for my entire day without any problems. The overall UI is responsive and fast, programs load quickly, and multitasking is a breeze. 

My Darter Pro has 32GB of RAM, an Intel Core Ultra 7 155H, and 500GB of Storage. I am still looking for the limits of what this workhorse can do. I've run my daily tasks here, and I am barely even breathing under the load. I've run tests through Basemark, and it scored 1017.69. This laptop should handle even demanding tasks, virtual machines, and coding and easily crush general multitasking and business tasks.

(Image credit: Collin Probst // Future)

The matte display reduces glare and offers vibrant colors, making it suitable for both work and media consumption, even though it has a lower resolution screen than other laptops. I experienced around 8.5-9 hours of battery life under light to moderate usage. However, high-performance tasks might reduce this significantly, especially if you push the RAM more than I am. 

The keyboard is responsive, though some might find the minor right shift key inconvenient. Typing all day on this keyboard is comfortable. It might not be the best laptops for programming in the world - admittedly, it's not my favorite keyboard I've ever used - but it's plenty comfortable for all-day usage. This keyboard showed me that I rarely use the right shift key, which is surprising since I've been typing for 10+ years, and though I don't have faster typing, I can type most of my peers out -- but perhaps a tale for another time.

(Image credit: Collin Probst // Future)

The trackpad is functional but may require some getting used to. I am pressing through the trackpad to click, but the tapping functionality works seamlessly. The overall size is pretty comparable to a MacBook, with a right-angle corner adjustment compared to the Mac's rounded corners.

Port-wise, System76 did a good job of port placement, though, in a perfect world, I'd prefer Thunderbolt on both sides, especially in 2024. The Darter Pro has a USB-A, headphone jack, and microSD slot on the left side. On the right, there is the power barrel connector, a USB-A, a Thunderbolt port, and a USB-C port. On the back, System76 included an HDMI and a network port.

(Image credit: Collin Probst // Future)

System76 Darter Pro: Final verdict

The System76 Darter Pro is a well-rounded Linux laptop that excels in performance, portability, and user freedom. Its open-source firmware and customizable hardware make it a top choice for developers and tech enthusiasts who prioritize control over their computing environment. While it might not be the best option for gamers or those needing ultra-high-resolution displays, it stands out as a reliable, efficient machine for most professional tasks. If you wanted one of the best business laptops running Linux, this is worth consideration.

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For more Linux hardware, we tested out the best Linux PC

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Netac US9 1TB USB SSD review

Netac US9: 30-second review

The market for ultrafast, high-capacity USB SSD sticks is expanding, and the Netac US9 USB 3.2 Gen 2 flash drive is a prime example of what looks to be an exceptional device. With its high-quality full metal build and dual connectors (USB Type-A and Type-C), it offers wide compatibility with a range of computers and mobile devices. The drive is plug-and-play, preformatted in ExFat for compatibility with Mac, PC, Android, and iOS devices.

The design is stylish and functional, with the USB SSD being instantly recognised by all tested devices. The build quality initially seems excellent, thanks to the full metal construction that provides what seems to be a robust and high-quality feel. However, on closer inspection you'll notice that the covers that flip over the connectors although a major feature is a weak point. The cover over the USB Type-A connector is held in place by a small magnet, which generally stays secure until intentionally flipped upwards. On the other hand, the cover over the USB Type-C connector flaps around as the small magnet that's supposed to hold it in place is far to weak.

Despite this minor design flaw, the SSD's performance is undisputed. Like any of the best portable SSDs (and with this device, we really mean portable), it boasts fast transfer speeds, making it an excellent solution for anyone looking to boost their mobile or computing storage. The overall build quality is durable, although the loose USB Type-C cover is a weak point and could potentially expose the connector to damage. Nonetheless, the Netac US9 is a decent enough choice for reliable and fast storage expansion.

Netac US9: Pricing and availability

(Image credit: Alastair Jennings)

• How much does it cost? €129
• When is it available? Now
• Where can you get it? It is available for sale in Europe

The Netac USB 3.2 Gen 2 flash drive is currently available on Amazon Europe for around €129.

• Value: 4/5

Netac US9: Benchmark

In benchmark tests, the Netac US9 USB 3.2 Gen 2 1TB put in a decent performance, reaching read speeds up to 1050.09MB/s and write speeds up to 1029.87MB/s, these exceeded those stated by Netac. 

(Image credit: Alastair Jennings)

Netac US9: Specs

Netac US9: Build and Handling

When you first take the Netac US9 out of the packaging, you can feel its weight and quality. It's fully made out of metal, giving it a strong and robust feel. The design of this compact SSD has been developed for maximum compatibility, featuring a USB Type-C on one end and a USB Type-A on the other, both supporting USB 3.2 Gen 2 for speeds up to 10 Gbps (1000 MB/s). It is available in various capacities, including 256GB, 512GB, and 1TB—the sample reviewed here is the 1TB version.

The flash drive is ready to use out of the box. It is preformatted in the ExFat format, ensuring compatibility with Mac and PC systems, as well as most Android and iOS smartphones and devices. Simply plug it in, and you can access the drive's capacity through your device's file manager. Not bad in the realms of the best external hard drives and best external hard drive for Mac. Bu not without flaws. 

Unlike some other drives, there is no software included, so setting up the file format and software you use on the drive is entirely up to you. There are also no software or hardware security options, so you'll need to use your operating system's native software protection if you wish to secure the drive.

The design is neat, with both connectors protected by strong metal covers that flip down, ensuring protection during transport. The USB Type-A connector's protective lid is held in place by a small magnet, while the USB Type-C cover rests inside the connector. This allows easy access to the connectors by simply flipping up the lids and plugging the drive into your device.

Overall, the build quality is good, with a full metal construction and sturdy caps that will protect the connectors when the drive is carried in a backpack or pocket, although as highlighted there is an issue with the USB Type-C protective cover staying in place.

(Image credit: Alastair Jennings)

• Design: 3/5

Netac US9: Features

As with many compact devices, the Netac US9 USB 3.2 Gen 2 Flash Drive is packed with features designed to make it stand out. For data transfer, this small SSD utilises USB 3.2 Gen 2, enabling read speeds up to 1000 MB/s and write speeds up to 950 MB/s. It features both Type-A and Type-C connectors, ensuring wide compatibility with computers, mobile phones, TVs, and other devices.

While no encryption software is included, the drive supports file encryption via hardware. This means if you use hardware or software encryption for your drives, this SSD will be fully compatible, offering added security for your data.

One of the standout design features is the interface protection design. The two flip-down covers protect the USB Type-A and Type-C ports. These covers are held in place by small magnets, providing secure closure and protecting the drive while it's in a bag or pocket. These flip-down covers are made of the same high-quality metal as the rest of the drive, ensuring durability and robust protection. Again there is a design flaw with the USB Type-C cover that we'll talk about in the performance section. 

• Features: 4/5

Netac US9: Performance

(Image credit: Alastair Jennings)

The performance of the Netac US9 USB 3.2 Gen 2 flash drive is impressive and versatile. Benchmarking against various applications revealed it to be an extremely fast SSD, often reaching the manufacturer's quoted speeds in our benchmarking tests. Viewing media files directly from the drive or editing within Photoshop or Adobe Premiere Pro 2024 is seamless, allowing for real-time editing. The metal casing effectively dissipates heat, preventing thermal throttling during short-term intensive tasks.

Using the drive for long, sustained periods under heavy load isn't recommended, but for short-term tasks, it excels. The drive is instantly recognised by devices like the iPhone 15 Pro, enabling quick transfers of photos, videos, and other files, freeing up valuable space. This portability and ease of use make it a great option for use with mobile devices.

A major feature is the ability to switch between USB Type-C and USB Type-A connectors, allowing easy connectivity between portable devices and desktop PCs. Transferring files between devices, including Macs, is straightforward thanks to the drive's compatible formatting.

Although the drive doesn't include built-in security software, you can utilise tools like Disk Utility on Mac to reformat and secure the drive with passwords. This requires some technical know-how but provides flexibility for added securit

The full metal build gives the drive a premium feel, but there is a significant drawback: the USB Type-C cover. Unlike the secure magnetised cover on the USB Type-A end, the USB Type-C cover is loosely held by a weak magnet, making it prone to opening which could leave the connector exposed to potential damage when stored in a bag or pocket.

Overall, while the Netac US9 performs exceptionally well and offers excellent capacity and speed, the ineffective USB Type-C cover is a notable flaw.

• Performance: 4/5

Should I buy the Netac US9?

When first looking at this compact flash drive, the build quality and design are very appealing, offering a high-quality feel. It meets the USB 3.2 Gen 2 specifications, transferring files quickly and effectively. The metal casing disperses heat well, allowing for sustained use and light video editing. Its durability, speed, and large capacity are significant benefits for expanding storage on computers or mobile devices. However, the major issue is the ineffectual USB Type-C cover, which doesn't stay secure. To get around this you could consider using a small case to prevent the cover from flapping about, but really while the speed and capacity is excellent this design flaw is an issue.

• ^ Back to top

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For more storage options, we've tested the best USB flash drives

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Lenovo ThinkVision M14t Gen 2 review

Lenovo ThinkVision M14t Gen 2: one-minute review

When Lenovo released its ThinkVision M14t portable monitor around 2020, it was praised for its beautiful 1080p touchscreen display with a built-in adjustable stand and included stylus. Those positive attributes were unfortunately joined with an expensive $449 launch price and required a USB-C port with DisplayPort 1.2 Alt Mode to operate. Thankfully, the Lenovo ThinkVision M14t Gen-2 improves on every highlight of the portable monitor and fixes two of the biggest issues. 

The M14t Gen 2 retains the sleek, all-black design of its predecessor, featuring a 14-inch IPS LCD touchscreen that can easily switch between vertical and horizontal orientations. However, this new model offers several upgrades, including a higher resolution of 1440p, an improved aspect ratio from 16:9 to 16:10, and a significantly enhanced contrast ratio of 1500:1. Additionally, the color accuracy has been boosted, now covering 100% of the sRGB color gamut, compared to the previous generation's 72% NTSC coverage. Simply put, the M14t Gen 2 is a large evolution in terms of image quality. 

(Image credit: Future)

Meanwhile, DisplayPort 1.2 Alt Mode is relatively common nowadays for laptops and desktops in addition to the launch price coming in at $399. That doesn’t mean there aren’t issues that potential buyers should be aware of. Considering the touchscreen capabilities of the M14t, Mac users probably won’t be able to make use of the touch screen as that feature is more for Windows laptops, Chromebooks, and Android devices. This portable monitor is for general computing and creative functions like browsing the web or video editing. Gaming-focused users may want to steer clear from the M14t Gen 2 for several reasons. Outside of the 60Hz max refresh rate, it has a 6ms response time and doesn’t have an HDMI port for gaming consoles. 

Though the display design hasn’t changed much, the image quality has been improved by miles. Consider the M14t Gen 2 a respectable revision and one of the best portable monitors in its price range.

Lenovo ThinkVision M14t Gen 2: Price and availability

•  How much does it cost? It cost $399 (£300, AU $543)
•  When is it available? Now
•  Where can you get it? Available in the US, UK, and Australia

Compared to when the first-gen Lenovo ThinkVision M14t was first launched at $449, the gen-2 comes in at a cheaper $399 (£300, AU $543) price. Available now in the US, UK, and Australian territories, the portable monitor is available through Lenovo’s store alongside other major online retailers like Amazon. Right now, the first-gen M14t can be purchased for around $279 if you're fine with the 1080p display outside the lower contrast and color gamut support. 

Regarding overall value, the M14t gen-2 has a few things going for it compared to similar portable monitors. Having the higher 1440p resolution, outstanding foldable design, and two USB-C ports does make this an attractive buy for those who create or need a second screen. Gamers may be better off with something like our pick for the best portable monitor, the Asus ZenScreen OLED MQ13AH (or MQ16AH if you want a bigger screen), which features 1ms response time. On the other hand, potential buyers on a budget could find the 1080p ViewSonic VA1655 a better buy at under $100 bucks.

•  Value:  4 / 5

Lenovo ThinkVision M14t Gen 2: Design

• The all-black design returns 
• Tilt also remains -5 / +90 degrees

The Lenovo ThinkVision M14t Gen 2 closely mirrors its predecessor with a sleek, all-black design that exudes a premium feel.

(Image credit: Future)

It also features a slew of essential ports and buttons, which is not always the case when it comes to modern laptops. On the left side, there's a USB-C port, brightness rocker, and menu button, while the right side includes another USB-C port, cable lock, and power button. Button placement makes navigating the on-screen interface straightforward and intuitive.

Using the M14t Gen 2 with a laptop or desktop means connecting it through USB-C and it just works. If you want to use it with your phone, you may have to connect one USB-C to a wall outlet and connect your phone to the other USB-C port.

The display's hinge can be lifted to provide additional height, adding to its versatility.  Automatic orientation adjustment is a standout feature here, allowing seamless switching between horizontal and vertical modes. For those who enjoy drawing, the M14t can be laid flat for a more comfortable experience. Additionally, the monitor is VESA mount certified, and two clips are included for mounting.

(Image credit: Future)

Included are a stylus and a carrying case, which conveniently has a pen holder. However, the glossy screen is prone to smudges, and the soft cotton case can be used to wipe them away. When inside the carrying case, it fits well in a medium-sized backpack and does a good job of protecting the display. 

Again, don’t expect any radical changes in the overall design on the M14t. What is impressive is that despite the upgrades to the image quality, the overall weight stays the same at around 1.54 lbs.

•  Design: 4.5/ 5 

Lenovo ThinkVision M14t Gen 2: Features

(Image credit: Future)

•  The touchscreen and stylus work well together
•  Extreme mode for better input latency

Many of the features of the Lenovo ThinkVision M14t Gen 2 carry over from the previous iteration. This includes the touchscreen which works well with laptops, desktops, and mobile devices. Input is smooth enough during usage; especially when using a Windows laptop. Add the included stylus into the picture and it’s a pretty neat tool to doodle in Microsoft paint. Just understand that the stylus doesn’t include any buttons so it won’t replace a Wacom tablet. 

The  M14t isn’t meant for gaming, but there is an Extreme mode, which takes the input latency from Normal mode of 8ms to 6ms. Unfortunately, while this is an improvement, it's still too high to matter much for gamers. Extreme mode can affect image quality with shadowing for faster-moving images, too. If you have a gaming laptop that can play the occasional game at 1440p and 60 frames-per-second, you should be satisfied enough. More serious gamers should look elsewhere. 

Considering the 300 nit brightness (which is good enough) alongside the 3000000:1 contrast, it would have been nice to have some HDR to round out the already fantastic image quality. This matters most when using a laptop with HDR capabilities as using the display could be considered a downgrade.

•  Features:  3.5/ 5

Lenovo ThinkVision M14t Gen 2: Performance

(Image credit: Future)

•  Image quality is top-notch
•  Gaming performance isn’t very good

The Lenovo ThinkVision M14t Gen 2 excels in overall image quality, with significant improvements over its predecessor. The upgrade to a 1440p resolution and 3,000,000:1 contrast ratio enhances everything from general computing to watching videos and photo editing, making it a standout option for creative tasks. Text appears crisp and clear, whether using Google Chrome or Slack, and it performs exceptionally well as a second screen for Adobe Suite in environments like an office or a coffee shop.

In normal latency mode, video editing in Adobe Premiere Pro or watching YouTube videos looks impressive, with bold colors, deep blacks, and excellent color accuracy supported by 100% sRGB color gamut coverage, making it ideal for tasks in Premiere Pro, Photoshop, and Lightroom. As mentioned earlier, the touchscreen works respectably well and is just as snappy with the touch stylus. Motions were smooth and didn’t lag, though general usage will vary depending on the user. 

However, the M14t isn’t the best choice for gaming due to its high input latency; even in Extreme mode, which reduces latency from 8ms to 6ms, it can still cause image quality issues like shadowing during fast movements, so serious gamers should consider other options.

•  Performance:  4 / 5 

Should you buy the Lenovo ThinkVision M14t Gen 2?

Buy it if...

You need a great portable 1440p monitor 

The Lenovo ThinkVision M14t has a lovely 1440p display with high contrast and color gamut that looks fantastic.

You require a flexible design

The monitor’s ability to fold horizontally, vertically or flat is cool for a touch screen that comes with a usable pen.

Don't buy it if...

You don’t need a touchscreen 

Mac users aren’t going to be able to use the touchscreen which means that it might be useless for that community of users.

You want something more gaming-friendly 

Having a 6 ms response time and 60Hz refresh rate may not make it very friendly for gamers.

Also consider

 Asus ZenScreen OLED MQ16AH

For around the same price, you get a 1080p display that also has two USB-C ports and a singular HDMI port with the Asus ZenScreen OLED MQ16AH. Gamers will most definitely appreciate the 1ms response time and ability to connect consoles as well. 

Read the full Asus ZenScreen OLED MQ16AH review on our sister site Tom’s Guide. 

ViewSonic VA1655

Budget gamers in need of a quality sub-$100 portable monitor may want to look into the ViewSonic VA 1655.

Read our full ViewSonic VA1655 review here.

How I tested the Lenovo ThinkVision M14t Gen 2

•  Tested over a week
•  Used on both Mac and Windows laptops 
•  Tested through various general computing apps and Adobe Suite

I spent a week testing the Lenovo ThinkVision M14t Gen 2 between my office and home, using it with both a Windows laptop and a MacBook. At my office, I utilized it primarily as a secondary display for applications like Slack and Microsoft Outlook. The display quality worked well for demanding tasks in Adobe Creative Suite, including Photoshop and Premiere Pro.

I’ve spent the past several years covering monitors alongside other PC components for Techradar. Outside of gaming, I’ve been proficient in Adobe Suite for over a decade as well. 

• First reviewed August 2024

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Nikon Z 35mm f/1.4 review: a modest modern-day classic

Nikon Z 35mm f/1.4: two-minute review

Fixed 35mm lenses, especially those with a fast aperture, are incredibly popular with visual storytellers. They're able to shoot clean images in high contrast and low light, provide decent close-focusing skills, and offer a moderately wide perspective that allows you to include your subject's surroundings as part of the story. These are true documentary lenses. 

In fact, when I lived in East Africa working for a non-profit as a photographer and writer, there was an 18-month period during which about 90% of the photos I took were with the excellent Sigma 35mm f/1.4 Art lens for DSLR cameras, a lens I still use today with my Nikon Z6 II mirrorless camera through the F-mount to Z-mount adapter. 

So I was really excited when Nikon finally announced a Z-mount 35mm lens, a lens that I expect to be one of the best-selling lenses for Nikon mirrorless cameras. Sadly, however, that doesn't mean the Z 35mm f/1.4 is one of Nikon's best lenses.

Nikon Z 35mm f/1.4 specs

Type: Prime
Sensor: Full-frame
Focal length: 35mm
Max aperture: f/1.4
Minimum focus: 0.89ft / 0.27m
Filter size: 62mm
Dimensions: 3 x 3.5in / 74.5 x 88.5mm
Weight: 14.7oz / 415g

Sure, image quality is sharp across the entire image area, while autofocus is fast, quiet and reliable. However, I'm not seeing the sort of optical progress I'm used to when a manufacturer produces an mirrorless version of a DSLR lens.

We're getting the same sort of lens distortions as before, and I even prefer the bokeh in my stalwart Sigma 35mm f/1.4 Art lens, which is smoother compared to the Z 35mm f/1.4's fussy bokeh.

Still, Nikon's moderately wide fast-aperture prime does a lot of things well. It focuses much faster than my DSLR lens adapted to the Z6 II, and it's an entirely different offering to Canon's recent RF 35mm F1.4 which is bigger and much pricier.

Canon has opted for the pro route with its 35mm fast aperture lens, while Nikon has opted for the more attainable and affordable enthusiast route: this is not one of Nikon's pro 'S' lenses, meaning official weather sealing is off the table. 

Balance-wise, the Z 35mm f/1.4 is a perfect match with the new Nikon Z6 III, Nikon Z8, or even Nikon's entry-level full-frame camera, the Z5, and it's an all-round lens that I could see getting a heck of a lot of use if it lived in my gear bag; I just wish its build quality and bokeh characteristics were a little better.

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(Image credit: Future | Tim Coleman)

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(Image credit: Future | Tim Coleman)

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(Image credit: Future | Tim Coleman)

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(Image credit: Future | Tim Coleman)

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(Image credit: Future | Tim Coleman)

Nikon Z 35mm f/1.4: Design

• Simple and compact design
• Handy customizable control ring
• Not officially weather sealed
• Minimum focus distance delivers decent close-focusing capabilities

There's not too much to run through with regards to the Nikon Z 35mm f/1.4's design because it's such a simple lens. The only exterior controls are a focus ring and a neat customizable control ring. What I like the most about the latter is that you can set it to be a click-less aperture ring, which is particularly handy for filmmaking. 

Otherwise, we don't even get a manual / autofocus switch. That's a shame for people like me who regularly switch between the two focusing methods, who must instead dig through an in-camera menus to make the change – an unnecessary time sink. 

What I do like is the form factor of the lens. It's impressively compact and lightweight at just 14.7oz / 415g, and an ideal pairing for extended periods out in the field with Nikon's mid-range mirrorless models like the Z6 II.

The size, if not the weight, is very similar to the heavier Sigma 35mm f/1.4 lens, although for DSLR lenses you also need Nikon's DSLR to mirrorless adaptor – you can see how the lenses compare in the product photos below.

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From left to right: the Nikon F-mount to Z-mount adaptor, the Sigma 35mm f/1.4 Art, the Nikon Z 35mm f/1.4. (Image credit: Future | Tim Coleman)

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The Sigma lens for DSLRs need the adaptor to work with a mirrorless camera. (Image credit: Future | Tim Coleman)

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(Image credit: Future | Tim Coleman)

Sadly, the Z 35mm f/1.4 isn't officially weather sealed, which is probably a deal-breaker for pros working in demanding conditions. I felt the build quality was fine during testing, and had no qualms exposing the lens to light rain, but I'd think twice about packing it in the bag for a couple of weeks in the desert. At one point I found myself taking my super soaker-touting child to task when she got me, and the lens, wet in the garden – I'm otherwise a good sport.

These moderate-wide-angle lenses historically focus impressively closely, meaning you can capture the finer details as well as your subject and their surroundings; after all, there are stories to be found in the micro and macro. We get a minimum focus distance of 0.89ft / 0.27m, which delivers a maximum magnification ratio of 0.18x. For reference, a 'true-macro' lens has a magnification ratio of 1x or more. 

What impressed me most about the design of the Z 35mm f/1.4, when compared to my 10-year-old Sigma equivalent, is the speed and accuracy of its autofocus performance. 

Where the Sigma lens through an adaptor was hunting, the new Nikon lens quickly and quietly latched onto my subject. Where the Sigma had front-focusing issues, even with the Z6 II's eye-detection autofocus in play, the Nikon Z 35mm was getting focus bang on the eye every time. 

It's the direct compatibility with a Nikon mirrorless camera and the autofocus performance that would most tempt me to trade in my old Sigma DSLR lens, and one of the key reasons I'm so glad that I upgraded from DSLR to mirrorless years ago. 

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With the aperture wide open at f/1.4, you don't see the aperture blades. (Image credit: Future | Tim Coleman)

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Here's the aperture stopped down to around f/8. The lens has nine aperture blades. (Image credit: Future | Tim Coleman)

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And finally fully closed to its minimum f/16 aperture. Note the lens has a 62mm thread for filters. (Image credit: Future | Tim Coleman)

Nikon Z 35mm f/1.4: Performance

• Optically sharp edge-to-edge
• Wide aperture is handy for shooting in low light and for shallow depth of field
• Bokeh could be better

I'll start this performance section by re-emphasizing that autofocus speed and reliability are excellent, delivering accurate focusing on the eyes in portraits. The same couldn't be said in my tests when using an adapted Sigma lens for DSLRs; and I'll take accurate focusing over outright optical quality. 

That said, the optical quality from the Z 35mm f/1.4 is very good. Looking closely at an image of pebbles at f/5.6, I can see that detail is very sharp across the entire frame – there's virtually no drop-off in the corners, which is impressive. 

There's the usual vignetting that I would expect from a wide-aperture lens like this. Light fall-off in the corners is very evident at f/1.4, those corners brighten up a lot at f/2, and somewhere between f/4 and f/5.6 vignetting is all but gone. Check out the series of sample images below, taken at full aperture stops. 

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f/1.4 (Image credit: Future)

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f/1.8 (Image credit: Future)

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f/2 (Image credit: Future)

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f/2.8 (Image credit: Future)

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f/4 (Image credit: Future)

Bokeh, however, is a mixed bag. If you're particularly close to your subject and shooting wide open at f/1.4, you can get circular bokeh 'balls' in out-of-focus light sources, such as dappled light through tree leaves. There are only moderate signs of cat's-eye bokeh in the corners – I've found the effect much more severe in pricier lenses. (I don't mind the cat's-eye shape, but some people get very picky about it.)

The big strike for me regarding bokeh is the fringing you get around those bokeh balls. Instead of the buttery-smooth edges like I was getting with my 10-year-old Sigma, edges are harsher, with green and magenta fringing. It's only obvious when you're looking really closely, but it is there (see the close-ups of a portrait, below). 

That being said, I did turn off all in-camera lens corrections for this test (something I always do), and there are aforementioned distortions that would be somewhat improved by activating those corrections. 

Also, I don't use a 35mm f/1.4 lens primarily for its bokeh quality. I use it for telling stories in scenarios with both good light and bad, for which the maximum f/1.4 aperture is a godsend. I regularly make use of the maximum aperture, and would absolutely pay the premium over cheaper f/1.8, f/2, f/2.8 alternatives to get a f/1.4 lens. 

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Portrait at f/1.4. Focus is on the money, whereas the same photo with the Sigma was front-focused on the mouth. (Image credit: Future | Tim Coleman)

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In this closeup the bokeh balls have harsh edges and show moderate fringing (Image credit: Future | Tim Coleman)

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Here's the same photo but with the 10-year-old Sigma lens. Bokeh has a buttery finish and no real fringing (Image credit: Future | Tim Coleman)

Nikon Z 35mm f/1.4: sample images

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I don't think a 35mm lens is great for landscape photography. In this situation, I'd rather a wider lens and to be closer to the point of interest. (Image credit: Future | Tim Coleman)

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While it's not a great landscape photography lens, it's great at picking out details. (Image credit: Future | Tim Coleman)

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You can get shallow depth of field if your subject is close. (Image credit: Future | Tim Coleman)

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(Image credit: Future | Tim Coleman)

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The pebbles in this photo at f/5. are sharp, even in the corners. (Image credit: Future | Tim Coleman)

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I switched the aperture to f/1.4 to get your attention the pebbles. (Image credit: Future | Tim Coleman)

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The 35mm is a perfect storytelling lens. (Image credit: Future | Tim Coleman)

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Again, not my personal choice for landcapes. I'd actually prefer a telephoto lens for this scene, and have the same photo with an 85mm lens that's better. (Image credit: Future | Tim Coleman)

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Portraits of people among their surrounding as part of the story – that's where a 35mm lens shines. (Image credit: Future | Tim Coleman)

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And then here's the details of the same story of the fisherman in the previous photo. (Image credit: Future | Tim Coleman)

Should you buy the Nikon Z 35mm f/1.4?

Buy it if...

Don't buy it if...

How I tested the Nikon Z 35mm f/1.4

• Regular use over the course of several weeks
• Paired with the Nikon Z6 II
• Like-for-like tests with the Sigma 35mm F1.4 DG Art

Nikon loaned me the Z 35mm f/1.4 for a few weeks, during which time I documented everyday life and took it on an extended summer vacation. I used it in both fair and inclement weather (though I felt I needed to protect it somewhat during downpours given it's not officially weather sealed), and both in bright light and during the 'blue hour'.

The Z 35mm f/1.4 was been attached to my Nikon Z6 II, which is a 24MP full-frame mirrorless camera. I've not used the lens with a higher-resolution camera like the 45MP Nikon Z8, and I therefore can't comment on whether it's able to resolve detail from such cameras. 

I've made several series of the same images, working down the aperture range at full stops to compare how image quality stacks up at the various settings. I also took the chance to compare the lens with my 10-year-old Sigma 35mm F1.4 Art, taking like-for-like shots.

All in-camera lens corrections were turned off throughout my testing. 

• First reviewed August 2024

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