Reviews
Honest hands-on reviews of things I have bought, used and tested, including gadgets, tools, radios, everyday carry, bags, tech and useful kit.
These are not lab reviews or affiliate-heavy buying guides. They are practical notes on what worked, what annoyed me, what I would buy again, and what I would avoid next time.
Plaud Note, AI audio recorder.
My thoughts on the device after use under varied conditions.
My Favourite Films and TV Shows
A personal list of my favourite films and TV shows, with a few thoughts on why they work for me.
Topdon TC001 Thermal Imaging Camera Review
A useful thermal imaging camera for finding heat leaks, checking gadgets and spotting faults around the house.
UGREEN FineTrack G Review: Tested From a Family Perspective
A family-focused tracker that worked better than Tile for me, with good Android integration and less hassle.
Rezi Max Safety Knife Review
A clever active-protection safety knife with one important flaw you need to understand.
ClockworkPi uConsole Review: CM5 and RF Board
A real-world ClockworkPi uConsole review based on a Raspberry Pi CM5 build with the RF board, Debian Bookworm, portable Linux use and radio projects.
Tomshoo Titanium Twig Stove Review
A lightweight titanium twig stove that packs flat, burns well and develops lovely heat colouring on first use.
Olight Seeker 4 Pro Long-Term Review
A powerful handheld torch with huge output, proper heat, strong runtime and a few practical compromises.
Wuben X4 Review: Compact USB-C Pocket Torch
A compact USB-C rechargeable pocket torch with useful output, simple charging and proper EDC appeal.
Leatherman Skeletool CX Review
A lightweight multitool with the essentials, good pocket carry and a few compromises compared with larger tools.
Amazon Kindle Long-Term Review
A lightweight backlit e-reader that is easy on the eyes and still one of the simplest ways to read more.
Victorinox Pioneer Alox Review
A tough, simple Swiss Army Knife with the tools I actually use and none of the unnecessary fluff.
Clockwork PicoCalc Review: Should You Buy One?
A charming Pi Pico-powered retro handheld that is more useful than it first looks, especially if you like tinkering.
Tile Tracker Pro Review: Tested From a Family Perspective
Nice hardware and a useful idea, but the reliability and range were only OK in real family use.
My Favourite USB Chargers
The USB chargers I actually use at home, in the car and in my bag, plus the ones I would avoid.
Three Peaks Roll Top 22L Review
A real-world review of the Three Peaks Roll Top 22L as a waterproof daypack, discreet carry-on and everyday family bag.
Pixel Buds Pro 2 Review: Tested With a Pixel 9 Pro
Small earbuds with big sound, strong Android integration and a few real-world annoyances.
Olight Arkfield Review: EDC Torch with UV and Laser
A slim EDC torch with white light, UV, laser pointer, magnetic charging and a simple everyday interface.
Some Torches: My EDC Torch Collection
A look at the torches I actually use, the ones I do not, and what matters for real everyday carry.
ReMarkable 2 Long-Term Review
A focused digital notebook that is brilliant for writing, reading and avoiding normal tablet distractions.
XTAR VC4SL Charger Review: AA, 18650 and 21700 Cells
If it’s a battery, this will probably charge it. A useful bench charger for AA, 18650 and 21700 cells.
My Favourite Power Banks
The power banks I actually use for daily carry, travel, family days out and keeping gadgets alive.