# chi-fi — Full Catalog & Specifications > A curated shortlist of budget gadgets sold on AliExpress: earphones, wireless earbuds, USB DACs, gamepads, retro handhelds, gaming mice and keyboards. Each page explains the product in plain terms, lists pros and cons, and links to AliExpress through affiliate links. Picks come from research (reviews, specs, community consensus), not hands-on testing. Prices are USD "from" prices and may be out of date. > Programmatic JSON catalog feed for agent tool use: [catalog.json](https://chi-fi.top/api/catalog.json). ## Categories - [Gamepads](https://chi-fi.top/gamepads): Controllers for PC, phones and Nintendo Switch. Most connect by cable, Bluetooth or a small USB dongle. - [Earphones](https://chi-fi.top/iem): Wired earphones that sit in your ear, often called IEMs (in-ear monitors). They plug into a headphone jack, or into a dongle on phones without one. - [Retro handhelds](https://chi-fi.top/handhelds): Pocket consoles for playing classic games. Some run Android, so they can play phone games too. - [Gaming mice](https://chi-fi.top/mouses): Light gaming mice, mostly wireless and rechargeable. - [Headphone DACs](https://chi-fi.top/dac): Small dongles and desk boxes that feed wired headphones from a phone or computer, often called DACs. Handy for phones with no headphone jack. - [Keyboards](https://chi-fi.top/keyboards): Mechanical keyboards for gaming and typing. Some have magnetic switches that let you set how far a key goes down before it counts, for faster presses in games. - [Wireless earbuds](https://chi-fi.top/tws): Bluetooth earbuds that sit in your ear without a cable between them, often called TWS (true wireless stereo). They recharge in their pocket case and pair with phones, tablets and computers. ## Gamepads Controllers for PC, phones and Nintendo Switch. Most connect by cable, Bluetooth or a small USB dongle. ### GameSir T4 Nova Lite - **Product Page**: https://chi-fi.top/gamepads/gamesir-t4-nova-lite - **Category**: Gamepads - **Brand**: GameSir - **Price**: from $16 USD - **Summary**: Budget wireless controller for PC, Switch and phones - **AliExpress**: https://s.click.aliexpress.com/e/_c3RiLG3t #### Pros - Hall-effect sticks that shouldn't drift - Connects by Bluetooth, 2.4 GHz dongle or USB-C cable - Works with PC, Steam Deck, Switch, Android and iOS - Solid build with textured rear grips #### Cons - Middling battery life (around 10 hours) and slow charging - No gyro, so no motion controls in Switch games - No headphone jack, extra back buttons or RGB lighting #### Specifications - **Platforms**: PC, Steam Deck, Switch, Android, iOS - **Connections**: wired, bluetooth, 2.4 GHz - **Stick sensors**: Hall effect #### Details & Specifications The GameSir T4 Nova Lite is one of the cheapest controllers here, and reviewers rate it as one worth buying. The Hall-effect sticks shouldn't develop drift, it connects by Bluetooth, 2.4 GHz dongle or USB-C cable, and it works with PC, Steam Deck, Switch, Android and iOS. The build is solid, with textured rear grips. To hit the price it leaves things out: there's no gyro (so no motion controls in Switch games), no headphone jack, no extra back buttons and no RGB lighting. Battery life is middling, at around 10 hours, and charging is slow. - Hall-effect sticks - Bluetooth, 2.4 GHz dongle and USB-C cable - Works with PC, Steam Deck, Switch, Android and iOS - Rumble with adjustable strength ### Machenike G5 Pro - **Product Page**: https://chi-fi.top/gamepads/machenike-g5-pro - **Category**: Gamepads - **Brand**: Machenike - **Price**: from $35 USD - **Summary**: Wireless controller with back buttons - **AliExpress**: https://s.click.aliexpress.com/e/_c43VTswB #### Pros - Hall-effect sticks that resist drift - Connects by USB-C cable, 2.4 GHz dongle or Bluetooth - Programmable back buttons, plus stick and trigger tuning in the companion app #### Cons - Rear buttons can be uncomfortable to reach - Some reviewers find the D-pad inconsistent - No headphone jack - Several versions are sold (G5 Pro, V2, Max), so check which one the listing is #### Specifications - **Platforms**: PC, Switch, Android, iOS, Steam Deck - **Connections**: wired, bluetooth, 2.4 GHz - **Stick sensors**: Hall effect - **Rear buttons or paddles**: Yes #### Details & Specifications The Machenike G5 Pro is a mid-priced controller with Hall-effect sticks that resist drift. It connects by USB-C cable, 2.4 GHz dongle or Bluetooth, and the companion app lets you program the back buttons and tune the sticks and triggers. Reviewers find the rear buttons uncomfortable to reach, and some find the D-pad inconsistent. There's no headphone jack. Several versions are sold under similar names (G5 Pro, G5 Pro V2, G5 Pro Max), with different triggers and extras, so check which one the listing is. - Hall-effect sticks - USB-C cable, 2.4 GHz dongle and Bluetooth - Programmable back buttons - Works with PC, Switch, Android, iOS and Steam Deck ### FANTECH SHOOTER III WGP13S - **Product Page**: https://chi-fi.top/gamepads/fantech-shooter-iii-wgp13s - **Category**: Gamepads - **Brand**: FANTECH - **Price**: from $20 USD - **Summary**: Wireless controller for PC, Switch and Android - **AliExpress**: https://s.click.aliexpress.com/e/_c4eItK7l #### Pros - Hall-effect sticks and triggers that shouldn't drift - Connects by 2.4 GHz dongle, USB-C cable or Bluetooth - 12 programmable buttons and macro recording - Up to 20 hours per charge (maker's figure) #### Cons - Works with PC, Switch, Android and PS3, but not Xbox, PS4 or PS5 - Hardly any independent reviews yet, so long-term reliability is unknown #### Specifications - **Platforms**: PC, Switch, Android, PlayStation - **Connections**: wired, 2.4 GHz - **Stick sensors**: Hall effect - **Hall-effect triggers**: Yes - **Max polling rate**: 1000 Hz - **Battery capacity**: 600 mAh - **Battery life**: 20 h #### Details & Specifications The Fantech Shooter III WGP13S is a budget wireless controller with Hall-effect sticks and triggers, which shouldn't develop stick drift. It connects by 2.4 GHz dongle or USB-C cable, has 12 programmable buttons with macro recording, and offers four levels of rumble. It works with PC, Nintendo Switch, Android and PS3, but not with Xbox, PS4 or PS5. There are hardly any independent reviews yet, so how well it holds up over time is unknown. - Hall-effect sticks and triggers - 2.4 GHz dongle and USB-C cable - Up to 1000 Hz polling (maker's figure) - 12 programmable buttons, macro recording, 4-level rumble - 600 mAh battery, up to 20 hours (maker's figure) - Works with PC, Switch, Android and PS3 ### Flydigi Vader 4 Pro - **Product Page**: https://chi-fi.top/gamepads/flydigi-vader-4-pro - **Category**: Gamepads - **Brand**: Flydigi - **Price**: from $57 USD - **Summary**: Wireless controller with adjustable sticks and triggers - **AliExpress**: https://s.click.aliexpress.com/e/_c4DEobPN #### Pros - Hall-effect sticks and triggers that shouldn't drift - Stick tension adjusts in three steps with physical levers - Four programmable back buttons - Low lag on the 2.4 GHz dongle or cable #### Cons - Bluetooth mode is much laggier than the dongle (about 22 ms in one test) - No headphone jack - The back buttons take time to get used to - No Xbox or PlayStation console support #### Specifications - **Platforms**: PC, Switch, Android, iOS - **Connections**: wired, bluetooth, 2.4 GHz - **Stick sensors**: Hall effect - **Hall-effect triggers**: Yes - **Rear buttons or paddles**: Yes - **Battery life**: 15 h #### Details & Specifications The Flydigi Vader 4 Pro is a mid-priced controller with Hall-effect sticks and triggers, which shouldn't develop stick drift. Physical levers adjust the stick tension in three steps, and four programmable back buttons and macros are set up in Flydigi's software. On the 2.4 GHz dongle or a cable it responds very quickly. Bluetooth is much slower: one test measured about 22 ms of lag, so use the dongle for fast games. There's no headphone jack, the back buttons take some getting used to, and it doesn't work with Xbox or PlayStation consoles. - Hall-effect sticks with adjustable tension, Hall-effect triggers - Four programmable back buttons - USB-C cable, 2.4 GHz dongle and Bluetooth - Works with PC, Switch, Android and iOS - Battery up to about 15 hours (maker's figure) ### 8BitDo Ultimate 2C - **Product Page**: https://chi-fi.top/gamepads/8bitdo-ultimate-2c-bluetooth-game-controller - **Category**: Gamepads - **Brand**: 8BitDo - **Price**: from $28 USD - **Summary**: Budget controller with drift-resistant sticks - **AliExpress**: https://s.click.aliexpress.com/e/_c41m3NxH #### Pros - Hall-effect sticks and triggers that shouldn't drift - Extra remappable L4/R4 shoulder buttons - About 14–15 hours per charge in one review - The Bluetooth version works with Switch and has motion controls #### Cons - Two versions: the Wireless one has a PC dongle but no Switch support, the Bluetooth one has no dongle - D-pad can feel mushy; one review saw stray inputs - No NFC for amiibo on Switch - Plastic feels budget #### Specifications - **Platforms**: PC, Android, Switch - **Connections**: wired, bluetooth - **Stick sensors**: Hall effect - **Hall-effect triggers**: Yes - **Rear buttons or paddles**: Yes #### Details & Specifications The 8BitDo Ultimate 2C is a cheap controller with Hall-effect sticks and triggers, which shouldn't develop stick drift. It has two extra remappable shoulder buttons (L4/R4), and one review got about 14–15 hours per charge. It's sold in two versions, so check which one the listing is. The 2C Wireless connects with a 2.4 GHz dongle or a cable and is meant for PC and Android. The 2C Bluetooth has no dongle, connects over Bluetooth or a cable, works with Nintendo Switch and adds motion controls. The D-pad is its weak spot: it can feel mushy, and one review saw stray inputs. There's no NFC for amiibo, and the plastic feels budget. - Hall-effect sticks and triggers - Remappable L4/R4 shoulder buttons - 2C Wireless: 2.4 GHz dongle and USB-C cable (PC, Android) - 2C Bluetooth: Bluetooth and USB-C cable (Switch, PC, phones), with motion controls ### GameSir Cyclone 2 - **Product Page**: https://chi-fi.top/gamepads/gamesir-cyclone-2 - **Category**: Gamepads - **Brand**: GameSir - **Price**: from $55 USD - **Summary**: Wireless controller with back paddles - **AliExpress**: https://s.click.aliexpress.com/e/_c3An2qqn #### Pros - Smooth, precise TMR sticks that resist drift - Hall-effect triggers with plenty of control - Two rear paddles and full remapping in the GameSir app - Comes with a charging stand #### Cons - Doesn't work with Xbox or PS5 consoles - The D-pad and clicky face buttons split opinion; some find the D-pad mushy - Reviews disagree on battery life; GameSir rates it at up to about 25 hours #### Specifications - **Platforms**: PC, Switch, Android, iOS - **Connections**: wired, bluetooth, 2.4 GHz - **Stick sensors**: TMR - **Hall-effect triggers**: Yes - **Rear buttons or paddles**: Yes - **Battery life**: 25 h #### Details & Specifications The GameSir Cyclone 2 is a mid-priced controller with TMR sticks, a newer magnetic design that is smooth, precise and resistant to drift. The Hall-effect triggers give plenty of control, and there are two rear paddles plus full remapping in the GameSir app. It comes with a charging stand. It works with PC, Switch, Android and iOS, but not with Xbox or PS5 consoles. The D-pad and clicky face buttons split opinion; some reviewers find the D-pad mushy. Reviews also disagree on battery life. - TMR sticks and Hall-effect triggers - Two programmable rear paddles - USB-C cable, Bluetooth and 2.4 GHz dongle - Charging stand included - Battery up to about 25 hours (maker's figure) ### Flydigi apex 5 - **Product Page**: https://chi-fi.top/gamepads/flydigi-apex-5 - **Category**: Gamepads - **Brand**: Flydigi - **Price**: from $125 USD - **Summary**: Pro wireless controller with a built-in screen - **AliExpress**: https://s.click.aliexpress.com/e/_c4pvPt0P #### Pros - Motorised adaptive triggers that push back in supported games - Adjustable stick tension - Built-in screen for changing settings on the controller itself - Very low lag: about 3 ms wired and 5 ms on the dongle in one review #### Cons - Heavy, at roughly 335–345 g - Gyro aiming is jittery, so it's weak for shooters - Rubber grips can discolour over time - No Xbox or PlayStation console support #### Specifications - **Platforms**: PC, Switch, Android, iOS - **Connections**: wired, bluetooth, 2.4 GHz - **Stick sensors**: Hall effect - **Hall-effect triggers**: Yes - **Rear buttons or paddles**: Yes - **Battery capacity**: 1500 mAh - **Battery life**: 20 h #### Details & Specifications The Flydigi Apex 5 is a high-end controller packed with features. Its motorised adaptive triggers push back in supported games, the stick tension is adjustable, and a small built-in screen lets you change settings on the controller itself. It's also very fast: one review measured about 3 ms of lag wired and 5 ms on the dongle. All that hardware makes it heavy, at roughly 335–345 g. The gyro aiming is jittery, so it's weak for shooters that rely on motion aim, and the rubber grips can discolour over time. It works with PC, Switch, Android and iOS, but not with Xbox or PlayStation consoles. - Hall-effect sticks with adjustable tension, Hall-effect triggers - Motorised adaptive triggers - Built-in screen and RGB lighting - Six programmable buttons and detachable back paddles - USB-C cable, Bluetooth and 2.4 GHz dongle - 1500 mAh battery, about 20 hours (maker's figure) ### EasySMX X05 - **Product Page**: https://chi-fi.top/gamepads/easysmx-x05 - **Category**: Gamepads - **Brand**: EasySMX - **Price**: from $25 USD - **Summary**: Wireless controller for PC, Android and Switch - **AliExpress**: https://s.click.aliexpress.com/e/_c3z3TT0r #### Pros - Hall-effect sticks and triggers that shouldn't drift - Very quiet face buttons - Solid D-pad that handles fighting-game inputs - Light and comfortable, even in bigger hands #### Cons - Short battery life: about 6 hours per charge in one review - The back macro buttons get in the way of the bumpers at first - No headphone jack, and it doesn't work with Xbox #### Specifications - **Platforms**: PC, Android, Switch, iOS - **Connections**: wired, bluetooth, 2.4 GHz - **Stick sensors**: Hall effect - **Hall-effect triggers**: Yes - **Gyroscope**: Yes - **Battery life**: 12 h #### Details & Specifications The EasySMX X05 is a cheap wireless controller with Hall-effect sticks and triggers, which shouldn't develop stick drift. Reviewers like its very quiet face buttons and its D-pad, which handles fighting-game inputs well. It's light and comfortable, even in bigger hands, and it has motion controls and rumble. Battery life is short: one review got about 6 hours per charge, well under the maker's figure. The back macro buttons get in the way of the bumpers until you get used to them. It has no headphone jack and doesn't work with Xbox. A newer X05 Pro is also sold, so check which model the listing is. - Hall-effect sticks and triggers - Connects by Bluetooth or USB dongle - Works with PC, Android and Nintendo Switch - Motion controls and rumble - Battery up to 12 hours (maker's figure) ### GameSir Nova 2 Lite - **Product Page**: https://chi-fi.top/gamepads/gamesir-nova-2-lite - **Category**: Gamepads - **Brand**: GameSir - **Price**: from $30 USD - **Summary**: Budget wireless controller with Hall-effect sticks - **AliExpress**: https://s.click.aliexpress.com/e/_c44m6R6R #### Pros - Hall-effect sticks and triggers that shouldn't drift - PC Gamer called it the new best budget controller for PC - Minimal software, since most settings are changed on the controller #### Cons - No gyro, so no motion controls - Plastic doesn't feel premium and isn't very grippy - The charging station is sold separately, though marketing shows it #### Specifications - **Platforms**: PC, Switch, Android, iOS - **Connections**: wired, bluetooth, 2.4 GHz - **Stick sensors**: Hall effect - **Hall-effect triggers**: Yes - **Gyroscope**: No #### Details & Specifications The GameSir Nova 2 Lite is a budget wireless controller with Hall-effect sticks and triggers, which shouldn't develop stick drift. It's usually priced at $29.99. PC Gamer scored it 87/100 and called it the new best budget controller for PC. It has no gyroscope, so there are no motion controls. The companion software is minimal, since most settings are changed on the controller. The plastic doesn't feel premium and isn't very grippy, and the charging station is sold separately even though marketing material shows it. - Hall-effect sticks and triggers - Budget price, around $30 - Minimal software, settings changed on the controller - No gyro or motion controls ### GameSir G7 SE - **Product Page**: https://chi-fi.top/gamepads/gamesir-g7-se - **Category**: Gamepads - **Brand**: GameSir - **Price**: from $45 USD - **Summary**: Wired Xbox and PC controller with Hall-effect sticks - **AliExpress**: https://s.click.aliexpress.com/e/_c4pBcCIj #### Pros - Hall-effect sticks and triggers that shouldn't drift - Back paddles and a companion app for remapping and tuning sticks and triggers - Shape close to the official Xbox controller, with a comfortable grip - 3.5mm headphone jack #### Cons - Wired only - The USB-C port accepts only the cable that comes with it, according to one reviewer - One reviewer found the face buttons membrane-style rather than tactile - Less versatile than the official Xbox controller, according to one review #### Specifications - **Platforms**: Xbox, PC - **Connections**: wired - **Stick sensors**: Hall effect - **Hall-effect triggers**: Yes - **Rear buttons or paddles**: Yes #### Details & Specifications The GameSir G7 SE is a wired controller for Xbox Series X|S, Xbox One and PC. It has Hall-effect sticks and triggers, which shouldn't develop stick drift, plus back paddles and a companion app for remapping buttons and tuning the sticks and triggers. Reviewers say it's close in shape to the official Xbox controller and comfortable to hold, and Tom's Guide praised its build and paddles. It's wired only. One reviewer found the USB-C port only accepts the cable that comes with it, and another found the face buttons membrane-style rather than tactile. Gfinity calls it a strong choice for an extra wired pad, but less versatile than the official controller. - Hall-effect sticks and triggers - Two rear paddles and remapping in the companion app - Wired USB-C connection for Xbox and PC - 3.5mm headphone jack ### 8BitDo SN30 Pro - **Product Page**: https://chi-fi.top/gamepads/8bitdo-sn30-pro - **Category**: Gamepads - **Brand**: 8BitDo - **Price**: from $36 USD - **Summary**: Retro-style wireless controller with a great D-pad - **AliExpress**: https://s.click.aliexpress.com/e/_c4sAhKYX #### Pros - The D-pad is the standout, especially for 2D and retro games - Looks almost identical to the original SNES controller - Works with Nintendo Switch, PC, Android, Mac and Steam Deck - Long battery life, according to reviews #### Cons - The battery is built in and can't be replaced - No button remapping, according to one review - Thumbstick placement can get in the way in some emulated games #### Specifications - **Platforms**: Switch, PC, Android, iOS, Mac, Steam Deck - **Connections**: wired, bluetooth - **Stick sensors**: Hall effect #### Details & Specifications The 8BitDo SN30 Pro is a wireless controller styled after the original SNES pad. Its D-pad is the main draw: reviewers praise it for 2D platformers and retro games, and it's a cheap alternative to Nintendo's Pro Controller. It works with Nintendo Switch, PC, Android, Mac and Steam Deck. The battery is built in and can't be replaced, and one review found no button remapping. PCWorld also noted thumbstick placement can get in the way in some emulated games. Most reviews date from its 2017 and 2018 launch, and several editions are sold, including a Hall-effect version, so check which one the listing is. - D-pad that suits 2D and retro games - SNES-style design - Works with Switch, PC, Android, Mac and Steam Deck - Built-in rechargeable battery ### 8BitDo Pro 2 - **Product Page**: https://chi-fi.top/gamepads/8bitdo-pro-2 - **Category**: Gamepads - **Brand**: 8BitDo - **Price**: from $45 USD - **Summary**: Pro-style controller with a strong D-pad - **AliExpress**: https://s.click.aliexpress.com/e/_c3PZCnx1 #### Pros - Strong D-pad, especially for retro and 2D games - Solid sticks and a good input feel - Customisation options on the Bluetooth model #### Cons - Two versions: Bluetooth for Switch, PC and mobile, and wired for Xbox - Some user reports question the Bluetooth connection, so wired is recommended - Flat face buttons, and the star and heart buttons are awkwardly placed - The wired Xbox version has a short cable and no shift or macro remapping #### Specifications - **Platforms**: PC, Switch, Android, iOS, Xbox - **Connections**: wired, bluetooth - **Stick sensors**: Hall effect #### Details & Specifications The 8BitDo Pro 2 is a pro-style controller with a strong D-pad, which reviewers call its highlight for retro and 2D games. The sticks feel solid, and PCWorld praised the input feel and customisation on the Bluetooth model. It was about $50 when PCWorld reviewed it in 2021. There are two versions, so check which one the listing is. The Bluetooth model works with Switch, PC and mobile. The wired Xbox version sold for $44.99 when TechRadar reviewed it, and it has a short cable and no shift or macro remapping. Reviewers also have a few complaints. The face buttons are flat, and the star and heart buttons sit awkwardly. Some user reports question the Bluetooth connection, so wired use is the safer bet. - Strong D-pad for retro and 2D games - Bluetooth model for Switch, PC and mobile - Wired model for Xbox - Customisation on the Bluetooth model ### Flydigi Vader 5 Pro - **Product Page**: https://chi-fi.top/gamepads/flydigi-vader-5-pro - **Category**: Gamepads - **Brand**: Flydigi - **Price**: from $80 USD - **Summary**: Premium wireless controller with adjustable Hall-effect sticks - **AliExpress**: https://s.click.aliexpress.com/e/_c3hNcE4X #### Pros - Hall-effect sticks with tension adjustable from 40 to 100 gf - Triggers switch between linear analog travel and a micro-switch mode - Detachable back paddles - Flydigi's own testing puts lag at 3 ms wired and 4 ms wireless #### Cons - The charging dock is sold separately for $25–30 - Costs more than the Vader 4 Pro, so it's a premium pick - We found no independent lag or stick-accuracy tests yet #### Specifications - **Platforms**: PC, Switch, Android, iOS - **Connections**: wired, 2.4 GHz, bluetooth - **Stick sensors**: Hall effect - **Rear buttons or paddles**: Yes #### Details & Specifications The Flydigi Vader 5 Pro is a premium wireless controller with Hall-effect sticks. Stick tension adjusts from 40 to 100 gf, and the triggers can switch between linear analog travel and an enhanced micro-switch mode. The back paddles detach, and HLPlanet's review called the force-adjustable sticks a core part of the design. Flydigi's own testing puts lag at 3 ms wired and 4 ms wireless, but that's the maker's figure. Retro Handhelds lists it at $80 and compared it with the GameSir Cyclone 2, and it sometimes drops to about $64 in sales. The charging dock is sold separately for $25–30, so budget for it if you want one. - Hall-effect sticks with adjustable tension - Dual-mode triggers (linear analog or micro-switch) - Detachable back paddles - Lag figures from the maker: 3 ms wired, 4 ms wireless ## Earphones Wired earphones that sit in your ear, often called IEMs (in-ear monitors). They plug into a headphone jack, or into a dongle on phones without one. ### KZ Castor Bass - **Product Page**: https://chi-fi.top/iem/kz-castor-bass - **Category**: Earphones - **Brand**: KZ - **Price**: from $8 USD - **Summary**: Wired earphones with extra bass - **AliExpress**: https://s.click.aliexpress.com/e/_c3ge2IyF #### Pros - Big, punchy bass for very little money - Four switches per earpiece change the bass and treble (16 sound settings) - In the default setting the bass mostly stays out of the vocals' way #### Cons - With the bass switches up, bass can spill into the mids and muddy voices - The switches need the included pin tool; fingernails won't do - Clear plastic shells and cable can yellow over time - No carry case, and the sound feels fairly closed-in #### Specifications - **Drivers per side**: 2 - **Driver types**: dynamic - **Cable connector**: 0.75 mm 2-pin - **Plugs**: 3.5 mm - **Shell material**: Resin #### Details & Specifications The KZ Castor Bass is the bass-heavy version of KZ's Castor earphones, and it costs very little. Each earpiece has four small switches that change the bass and treble, giving 16 sound settings. You flip them with the included pin tool, not your fingernails. In the default setting the bass is big but mostly stays out of the way of vocals. Turn the bass switches up and it can spill into the mids and make voices sound muddy; some reviewers prefer the regular (non-Bass) Castor for that reason. The sound feels fairly closed-in rather than spacious, there's no carry case, and the clear plastic shells and cable can yellow over time. - Two dynamic drivers per side (10 mm for bass, 8 mm for mids and highs) - Four tuning switches per earpiece, 16 sound settings - Detachable cable with a 0.75 mm 2-pin connector, 3.5 mm plug - Clear resin shells ### KZ Audio ZVX - **Product Page**: https://chi-fi.top/iem/kz-audio-zvx - **Category**: Earphones - **Brand**: KZ - **Price**: from $8 USD - **Summary**: Budget wired earphones - **AliExpress**: https://s.click.aliexpress.com/e/_c4UBi7t1 #### Pros - All-metal shells that feel solid for the price - Clear, forward mids with good detail - Tight, quick bass #### Cons - Some reviewers find voices and instruments sound slightly unnatural - Comes with foam tips only, no silicone ones - Metal shells are heavier and bulkier than most budget sets #### Specifications - **Drivers per side**: 1 - **Driver types**: dynamic - **Impedance**: 25 Ω - **Cable connector**: 0.75 mm 2-pin - **Plugs**: 3.5 mm - **Shell material**: Metal #### Details & Specifications The KZ ZVX is one of the cheapest wired earphones here, with solid all-metal shells. Reviewers like its clear, forward mids, good detail and tight, quick bass. Opinions split on how natural it sounds: some reviewers hear voices and instruments as slightly off. The metal shells are heavier and bulkier than most budget earphones, so fit varies, and the box comes with foam tips only, no silicone ones. - 10 mm dynamic driver - Impedance about 25 Ω, sensitivity about 109 dB (easy to drive from a phone) - Detachable cable with a 0.75 mm 2-pin connector, 3.5 mm plug - All-metal shells ### TANGZU WAN ER SG - **Product Page**: https://chi-fi.top/iem/tangzu-wan-er-sg - **Category**: Earphones - **Brand**: TANGZU - **Price**: from $15 USD - **Summary**: Wired earphones that run fine from a phone - **AliExpress**: https://s.click.aliexpress.com/e/_c3ueHNxV #### Pros - Warm, smooth sound you can listen to for hours - Light shells that stay comfortable on long sessions - Easy to drive straight from a phone #### Cons - Average detail and a fairly narrow sense of space - Bass can blur into the mids a little - Stock cable tangles easily and has stiff ear hooks #### Specifications - **Drivers per side**: 1 - **Driver types**: dynamic - **Impedance**: 20 Ω - **Sensitivity**: 107 dB/mW - **Shell material**: Resin #### Details & Specifications The Tangzu Wan'er S.G is a pair of cheap wired earphones with a warm, smooth sound that's easy to listen to for hours. The shells are light and comfortable, and they're easy to drive straight from a phone. It isn't a pick for detail: technical performance is average, the sense of space is fairly narrow, and the bass can blur into the mids a little. The stock cable tangles easily and has stiff ear hooks, so many owners replace it. - 10 mm dynamic driver - Impedance 20 Ω, sensitivity 107 dB (easy to drive from a phone) - Detachable cable with a 2-pin connector - Lightweight resin shells ### Moondrop CHU II - **Product Page**: https://chi-fi.top/iem/moondrop-chu-ii - **Category**: Earphones - **Brand**: Moondrop - **Price**: from $18 USD - **Summary**: Wired earphones with a balanced sound - **AliExpress**: https://s.click.aliexpress.com/e/_c3Dk2EHl #### Pros - Small metal shells that fit comfortably in most ears - Light, detachable cable that's better than most at this price - Fun sound with good bass for the price - Replaceable nozzle filter for easy cleaning #### Cons - Mids sit slightly back, so guitars can sound thin - Treble can feel bright if you're used to warmer earphones - Detail and separation are only average - Brass nozzle can tarnish in humid climates #### Specifications - **Drivers per side**: 1 - **Driver types**: dynamic - **Impedance**: 18 Ω - **Sensitivity**: 119 dB/V - **Cable connector**: 0.78 mm 2-pin - **Shell material**: Metal #### Details & Specifications The Moondrop CHU II is a pair of budget wired earphones with small metal shells that sit comfortably in most ears. Unlike the original CHU, it has a detachable cable, and the cable is lighter and nicer than most at this price. The sound is fun, with good bass for the money. The mids sit slightly back, so guitars can sound thin, and the treble can feel bright if you're used to warmer earphones. Detail and separation are average. The brass nozzle has a replaceable filter, but it can tarnish in humid climates. - 10 mm dynamic driver - Impedance 18 Ω, sensitivity 119 dB/Vrms (easy to drive from a phone) - Metal shells with a brass nozzle and replaceable filter - Detachable cable with a 0.78 mm 2-pin connector ### MOONDROP Kadenz - **Product Page**: https://chi-fi.top/iem/moondrop-kadenz - **Category**: Earphones - **Brand**: Moondrop - **Price**: from $197 USD - **Summary**: Higher-end wired earphones - **AliExpress**: https://s.click.aliexpress.com/e/_c3psIfZ1 #### Pros - Strong, physical bass with real punch - Swappable nozzles change the treble - Generous box, including a USB-C cable with a built-in DAC - Solid, well-finished stainless-steel shell #### Cons - Heavy shell, and its shape can be uncomfortable in some ears - Upper treble can sound a little grainy - Sound changes noticeably with the source, so pairing takes some trial and error - Imaging is decent rather than wide #### Specifications - **Drivers per side**: 1 - **Driver types**: dynamic - **Impedance**: 35 Ω - **Sensitivity**: 122 dB/V - **Shell material**: Stainless steel #### Details & Specifications The Moondrop Kadenz is the most expensive pair of earphones here, a step up from the budget sets. Its best trait is strong, physical bass with real punch. Swappable nozzles let you change the treble, and the box is generous, including a USB-C cable with a built-in DAC so you can plug it straight into a phone. The stainless-steel shell is solid but heavy, and its shape can be uncomfortable for some ears. Reviewers rate it good rather than outstanding: the upper treble can sound a little grainy, imaging is decent rather than wide, and the sound changes noticeably depending on what you plug it into. - 10 mm dynamic driver with a diamond-coated diaphragm - Impedance 35 Ω, sensitivity 122 dB/Vrms - Swappable nozzles for different treble - Stainless-steel shell - Includes a USB-C cable with a built-in DAC ### 7Hz X Crinacle Zero 2 - **Product Page**: https://chi-fi.top/iem/7hz-x-crinacle-zero-2 - **Category**: Earphones - **Brand**: 7Hz - **Price**: from $15 USD - **Summary**: Wired earphones tuned with reviewer Crinacle - **AliExpress**: https://s.click.aliexpress.com/e/_c32wOpsr #### Pros - Warm, bass-forward sound that suits pop and hip-hop - Smooth treble that doesn't get harsh - More bass than the original Zero - Detachable cable, so a broken one is cheap to replace #### Cons - Little sparkle at the top, and detail is only average - Busy tracks can sound a bit crowded - Basic extras: a thin stock cable and usually no case - Angular shells don't suit every ear; other ear tips can help #### Specifications - **Drivers per side**: 1 - **Driver types**: dynamic - **Impedance**: 32 Ω - **Cable connector**: 0.78 mm 2-pin - **Shell material**: Resin #### Details & Specifications The 7Hz x Crinacle Zero 2 is a pair of cheap wired earphones, tuned together with the well-known reviewer Crinacle. Compared with the original Zero, it has more bass and a warmer sound, which suits pop, hip-hop and casual listening. The treble is smooth and never harsh, but there isn't much sparkle at the very top, and detail is only average. Busy tracks can sound a little crowded. The shells are angular, so fit depends on your ears; trying other ear tips helps. The cable is detachable but thin, and a case usually isn't included. - 10 mm dynamic driver - Impedance 32 Ω, sensitivity 108 dB (easy to drive from a phone) - Detachable cable with a 0.78 mm 2-pin connector - Resin shells ### Moondrop CHU III - **Product Page**: https://chi-fi.top/iem/moondrop-chu-iii - **Category**: Earphones - **Brand**: Moondrop - **Price**: from $25 USD - **Summary**: Wired earphones with punchy bass for the price - **AliExpress**: https://s.click.aliexpress.com/e/_c4NUQKJ9 #### Pros - Bass quality reviewers call excellent for the price - Balanced, mildly V-shaped sound that's clean and coherent - Small metal shells that fit most ears - Easy to drive straight from a phone #### Cons - Bass can get boomy, with little sub-bass rumble - Treble peaks can make cymbals sound thin - Wide 6 mm nozzles won't suit every ear - Brass nozzles can tarnish, and the accessories are bare-bones #### Specifications - **Drivers per side**: 1 - **Driver types**: dynamic - **Impedance**: 16 Ω - **Sensitivity**: 118 dB/V - **Cable connector**: 0.78 mm 2-pin - **Plugs**: 3.5 mm - **Shell material**: Zinc alloy - **Colors**: Black, Silver #### Details & Specifications The Moondrop CHU III is the third generation of Moondrop's budget CHU earphones, released in 2026. It keeps the small metal shells and detachable cable of the CHU II and adds a new aluminium-magnesium driver. Headphones.com calls it one of the best budget earphones of 2026, mainly for its bass quality at this price. The sound is balanced with a mild V-shape: bass is lifted and firm, the mids sit slightly forward, and the presentation is clean. Reviewers note the bass can turn boomy on drums and the treble can make cymbals sound thin. The 6 mm nozzles are wide, so fit isn't for everyone, the brass nozzles can tarnish over time, and the box holds little beyond a pouch, tips and a basic cable. - 10 mm dynamic driver with an aluminium-magnesium diaphragm - Impedance 16 Ω, sensitivity 118 dB/Vrms (easy to drive from a phone) - Zinc alloy shells with brass nozzles - Detachable cable with a 0.78 mm 2-pin connector, 3.5 mm plug - Black or silver ### TRUTHEAR PURE - **Product Page**: https://chi-fi.top/iem/truthear-pure - **Category**: Earphones - **Brand**: TRUTHEAR - **Price**: from $90 USD - **Summary**: Wired earphones with four drivers and a warm sound - **AliExpress**: https://s.click.aliexpress.com/e/_c4Sx22kB #### Pros - Warm, even sound with strong bass for the price - Four drivers per side (one dynamic, three balanced armature) - Blocks a lot of outside noise - Easy to drive from a phone #### Cons - Large shells and a wide nozzle make the fit tricky for some ears - Treble rolls off early, so it can sound a little dark - Some reviewers find cheaper earphones nearly as good #### Specifications - **Drivers per side**: 4 - **Driver types**: dynamic, balanced armature - **Impedance**: 13.8 Ω - **Sensitivity**: 124 dB/V - **Cable connector**: 0.78 mm 2-pin - **Plugs**: 3.5 mm - **Shell material**: 3D-printed resin #### Details & Specifications The TRUTHEAR PURE is the successor to Truthear's popular HEXA, with one dynamic driver and three balanced armature drivers in each earpiece. It has become one of the more recommended earphones under $100 in 2026, and headphones.com rates it as good as the HEXA, with warmer mids and tamer treble. Reviewers describe a warm, even sound with strong bass; SoundGuys recommends it for bass-heavy music and action games. The treble rolls off early, so it can sound a little dark. Fit is the main complaint: the resin shells are large and the nozzle is wide, so they won't suit smaller ears. One reviewer also argues the much cheaper Truthear GATE measures nearly as well. - One 10 mm dynamic driver and three balanced armature drivers per side - Impedance 13.8 Ω, sensitivity 124 dB (easy to drive from a phone) - 3D-printed resin shells - Detachable cable with a 0.78 mm 2-pin connector, 3.5 mm plug ### SIMGOT EW300 - **Product Page**: https://chi-fi.top/iem/simgot-ew300 - **Category**: Earphones - **Brand**: SIMGOT - **Price**: from $69 USD - **Summary**: Wired earphones with three kinds of driver in a metal shell - **AliExpress**: https://s.click.aliexpress.com/e/_c3skm3OJ #### Pros - Rich, punchy bass and a warm, smooth sound you can listen to for hours - Good detail and separation for the price - All-metal shells with a good-quality silver-plated cable - Two swappable nozzles to change the sound slightly #### Cons - Treble lacks some air and fine detail - Soundstage is good but on the intimate side - May be too bassy for some listeners - The difference between the two nozzles is subtle #### Specifications - **Drivers per side**: 3 - **Driver types**: dynamic, planar, piezoelectric - **Impedance**: 28 Ω - **Sensitivity**: 121 dB/V - **Cable connector**: 0.78 mm 2-pin - **Plugs**: 3.5 mm - **Shell material**: Metal #### Details & Specifications The SIMGOT EW300 packs three kinds of driver into each earpiece: a dynamic driver for bass and mids, plus a small planar and a piezo driver for the highs. It came out in 2024 but has kept climbing in popularity, and 2026 community roundups call it one of the rising picks under $100. Reviewers describe a warm, slightly dark sound with rich, punchy bass and lush mids, with good detail for the price. The treble is smooth but lacks some air and fine detail, the soundstage is good rather than wide, and some listeners may find it too bassy. It comes with two pairs of nozzles that change the sound slightly, though reviewers find the difference subtle. - 10 mm dynamic driver, 6 mm planar driver and a piezoelectric driver per side - Impedance 28 Ω, sensitivity 121 dB/Vrms (easy to drive from a phone) - CNC-machined metal shells, two pairs of swappable nozzles - Detachable silver-plated cable with a 0.78 mm 2-pin connector, 3.5 mm plug ### Kiwi Ears Belle - **Product Page**: https://chi-fi.top/iem/kiwi-ears-belle - **Category**: Earphones - **Brand**: Kiwi Ears - **Price**: from $25 USD - **Summary**: Compact wired earphones with tight, plentiful bass - **AliExpress**: https://s.click.aliexpress.com/e/_c3TjusE7 #### Pros - Tight, well-controlled bass with plenty of it, without drowning the rest - Very small shell that suits smaller ears - Premium-feeling build for the price: metal faceplate on a resin body - Optional cables with a microphone, analog or USB-C #### Cons - Mids and treble can sound bright and a little dry - Detail is good for the price but not top-tier - Soundstage is about average - Bare accessories in the box #### Specifications - **Release year**: 2026 - **Drivers per side**: 1 - **Driver types**: dynamic - **Impedance**: 32 Ω - **Cable connector**: 0.78 mm 2-pin - **Plugs**: 3.5 mm - **Shell material**: Resin with metal faceplate - **Weight**: 3 g - **Colors**: Black, Clear with silver faceplate #### Details & Specifications The Kiwi Ears Belle is a small, cheap pair of wired earphones that came out in early 2026, alongside the Cadenza II. It has a single 10 mm dynamic driver with a diamond-like carbon diaphragm in a compact shell: resin body, metal faceplate. Reviewers agree the bass is the highlight: tight, well controlled and plentiful without taking over. The midrange is detailed but bright and slightly dry, and the treble is airy rather than smooth, so it suits listeners who want bass and sparkle more than warmth. Detail and soundstage are good for the price rather than special. Check which cable you pick on the listing: the plain 3.5 mm cable, one with a microphone, or a USB-C cable with a microphone for phones without a headphone jack. - One 10 mm dynamic driver with a DLC diaphragm per side - Impedance 32 Ω, sensitivity 103 dB (at 1 kHz); a phone drives it, a dongle helps - Resin shell with a CNC-machined metal faceplate, about 3 g per earpiece - Detachable cable with a 0.78 mm 2-pin connector; 3.5 mm plug (3.5 mm with microphone and USB-C with microphone also sold) - Colors: black, or clear resin with a silver faceplate - Released early 2026 ### Kiwi Ears Cadenza II - **Product Page**: https://chi-fi.top/iem/kiwi-ears-cadenza-ii - **Category**: Earphones - **Brand**: Kiwi Ears - **Price**: from $45 USD - **Summary**: Warm, smooth wired earphones with a titanium driver - **AliExpress**: https://s.click.aliexpress.com/e/_c44PrEfd #### Pros - Smooth, relaxed treble that doesn't tire you out - Warm, full mids that suit vocals - More sub-bass than mid-bass, so bass is deep without muddying the mids - Sturdier shell and a better braided cable than the original Cadenza #### Cons - Detail and dynamics are decent but not class-leading - Soundstage and imaging are good for the price, not standout - The laid-back tuning can feel mellow if you want bite - Slightly larger shell than the original #### Specifications - **Release year**: 2026 - **Drivers per side**: 1 - **Driver types**: dynamic - **Impedance**: 18 Ω - **Sensitivity**: 106 dB/V - **Frequency response, low end**: 10 Hz - **Frequency response, high end**: 29000 Hz - **Cable connector**: 0.78 mm 2-pin - **Plugs**: 3.5 mm - **Shell material**: Polycarbonate with aluminum faceplate #### Details & Specifications The Kiwi Ears Cadenza II is the 2026 follow-up to the Cadenza, one of the most recommended cheap earphones. It has a single 10 mm dynamic driver with a titanium-coated diaphragm and a bass-tuning chamber that Kiwi Ears calls KARS 2.0. Reviewers describe a smooth, warm and relaxed sound that stays fairly neutral, with a gentle treble and full mids, and a little warmer than the original. Detail and soundstage are good for around $45 but not the best in the class. It's easy to pair with a phone or a small dongle. Check which listing you open: there are several resellers, and the price is the "from" price of the cheapest we found. - One 10 mm dynamic driver (titanium-coated PET diaphragm) per side - Impedance 18 Ω, sensitivity 106 dB (at 1 kHz); easy to drive from a phone - Frequency response 10 Hz to 29 kHz (maker's figure) - Polycarbonate shell with an aluminum faceplate - Detachable 1.2 m braided cable with a 0.78 mm 2-pin connector, 3.5 mm plug - Six pairs of silicone ear tips in the box - Released early 2026 ### SIMGOT EG280 - **Product Page**: https://chi-fi.top/iem/simgot-eg280 - **Category**: Earphones - **Brand**: SIMGOT - **Price**: from $72 USD - **Summary**: Gaming-tuned earphones with a planar tweeter and USB-C dongle - **AliExpress**: https://s.click.aliexpress.com/e/_c3H1TKPl #### Pros - Wide, open sound with precise positioning, good for footsteps in competitive games - Fast, detailed treble from the planar tweeter, rare at this price - Tight, clean bass - Long 1.7 m detachable cable and a good choice of ear tips #### Cons - Dry, slightly brittle sound that suits vocals and warm music less - Modest bass quantity - The bundled USB-C dongle is decent but not powerful, and tuning means picking a preset - Treble can sound sharp on harsh recordings #### Specifications - **Release year**: 2026 - **Drivers per side**: 2 - **Driver types**: dynamic, planar - **Impedance**: 32 Ω - **Sensitivity**: 119 dB/V - **Frequency response, low end**: 20 Hz - **Frequency response, high end**: 20000 Hz - **Cable connector**: 0.78 mm 2-pin - **Shell material**: Resin with metal faceplate #### Details & Specifications The SIMGOT EG280 is a gaming-focused earphone from 2026 with a 10 mm dynamic driver and a small annular planar tweeter in each earpiece, sold with a USB-C dongle that has gaming sound presets. It's meant for FPS and MOBA games first, and music second. Reviewers praise the open soundstage, precise imaging and fast, detailed treble, and say the bass is tight though modest. For music it's less loved: the sound is crisp and dry, the mids can sound thin, and the treble can get sharp on harsh recordings. IEM Ranking's average of eight expert reviews puts it in a middle tier, as a good first gaming IEM rather than an all-rounder. Check the listing's variant before buying: this one is the plain earphone listing, and the dongle, microphone and 3.5 mm or USB-C versions vary by seller. - One 10 mm dynamic driver (LCP diaphragm) and one 6 mm planar tweeter per side - Impedance 32 Ω, sensitivity 119 dB/Vrms - Frequency response 20 Hz to 20 kHz - Semi-transparent smoke resin shell with a metal faceplate - Detachable 1.7 m OFC cable with a 0.78 mm 2-pin connector - USB-C DAC dongle with FPS and MOBA presets (maker's bundle; check which variant you buy) - Released 2026 ### SIMGOT EA1000 Fermat - **Product Page**: https://chi-fi.top/iem/simgot-ea1000 - **Category**: Earphones - **Brand**: SIMGOT - **Price**: from $219 USD - **Summary**: All-metal dynamic-driver earphones with a passive radiator and swappable nozzles - **AliExpress**: https://s.click.aliexpress.com/e/_c3Y3Ace7 #### Pros - Superb technical performance: wide, holographic soundstage and class-leading resolution - Tight, fast bass with natural decay from the passive radiator - Three swappable nozzles that genuinely shift vocal presence and treble balance - Mirror-finished CNC stainless-steel shells with crystal faceplates #### Cons - Energetic treble that can sound bright or sharp to treble-sensitive ears - Lower mids can feel lean if you prefer thick, warm vocals - Heavy metal shells (11 g per side) - Cable terminates in a fixed 3.5 mm plug with no modular 4.4 mm balance option #### Specifications - **Release year**: 2023 - **Drivers per side**: 1 - **Driver types**: dynamic - **Impedance**: 16 Ω - **Sensitivity**: 127 dB/V - **Frequency response, low end**: 10 Hz - **Frequency response, high end**: 50000 Hz - **Cable connector**: 0.78 mm 2-pin - **Plugs**: 3.5 mm - **Shell material**: Stainless steel - **Weight**: 11 g #### Details & Specifications The SIMGOT EA1000 Fermat sits in the $200-plus bracket as Simgot's flagship dynamic-driver earphone. It pairs a 10 mm dual-magnet, dual-cavity dynamic driver with a purple-gold diaphragm and an unusual 6 mm passive radiator designed to manage ear-cavity pressure and natural bass decay. It arrived in late 2023 and has earned a strong reputation among audiophiles for technical performance that rivals multi-driver sets twice its price. Reviewers praise its wide, holographic soundstage, precise instrument separation, and fast, clean bass texture. The tuning leans articulate and energetic: vocals are clear and forward, and treble extends with sparkling detail. That energy can lean bright or sharp on aggressive tracks for treble-sensitive listeners, and the lower midrange is neutral rather than warm or thick. Three interchangeable tuning nozzles (brass and two stainless-steel variants) let you fine-tune the upper-mid balance. The mirror-finish stainless-steel shells look premium but are weighty at 11 g per earbud. - One 10 mm dynamic driver (sputtered purple-gold diaphragm) and one 6 mm passive radiator per side - Impedance 16 Ω, sensitivity 127 dB/Vrms (easy to drive from a phone or dongle) - Frequency response 10 Hz to 50 kHz (effective 20 Hz to 20 kHz) - CNC stainless-steel shells with transparent crystal faceplates - Three pairs of swappable tuning nozzles (one brass, two stainless steel) - Detachable silver-plated OFC Litz cable with a 0.78 mm 2-pin connector, 3.5 mm plug - Weight ~11 g per earpiece - Released late 2023 ### KZ ZS10 Pro X - **Product Page**: https://chi-fi.top/iem/kz-zs10-pro-x - **Category**: Earphones - **Brand**: KZ - **Price**: from $30 USD - **Summary**: Hybrid five-driver earphones with punchy bass and detailed highs - **AliExpress**: https://s.click.aliexpress.com/e/_c2ye89kT #### Pros - Ten drivers total (1 DD + 4 BAs per side) for a low budget price - Punchy, deep bass that gives energy to pop, rock and electronic tracks - Crisp, airy treble with plenty of micro-detail - Durable zinc-alloy faceplates with clear resin shells #### Cons - V-shaped tuning pushes the midrange and vocals back - Treble can sound sharp or fatiguing on bright tracks - Chunky earpieces can feel large in smaller ears - Uses KZ's proprietary 0.75 mm QDC 2-pin connector rather than standard 0.78 mm #### Specifications - **Release year**: 2022 - **Drivers per side**: 5 - **Driver types**: dynamic, balanced armature - **Impedance**: 29 Ω - **Sensitivity**: 112 dB/mW - **Frequency response, low end**: 20 Hz - **Frequency response, high end**: 40000 Hz - **Cable connector**: 0.75 mm 2-pin - **Plugs**: 3.5 mm - **Shell material**: Resin with zinc-alloy faceplate #### Details & Specifications The KZ ZS10 Pro X is the upgraded version of KZ's hugely popular ZS10 Pro, packing five drivers into each earpiece: one 10 mm dynamic driver for the low end, and four balanced armatures (two 50024 high-frequency drivers and two 30019 mid-high drivers) for the rest of the range. Reviewers describe a lively, fun V-shaped sound with punchy bass and crisp, sparkling highs. The multiple balanced armatures give it plenty of detail and separation for around $30, though the treble can lean sharp on harsh recordings and the midrange is slightly recessed. The shells combine a matte-finished zinc-alloy faceplate with clear resin that shows the internal drivers, but housing five drivers makes each earpiece fairly thick. - One 10 mm dynamic driver and four balanced armature drivers per side (two 50024 and two 30019) - Impedance 29 Ω, sensitivity 112 dB/mW (easy to drive from a phone) - Frequency response 20 Hz to 40 kHz - Zinc-alloy faceplate with translucent resin cavity - Detachable silver-plated flat cable with a 0.75 mm 2-pin connector (QDC type), 3.5 mm plug - Weight ~32 g total (including cable) - Released late 2022 ### TANGZU Wan'er S.G II Red Lion - **Product Page**: https://chi-fi.top/iem/tangzu-waner-sg-ii-red-lion - **Category**: Earphones - **Brand**: TANGZU - **Price**: from $21 USD - **Summary**: Bass-boosted wired earphones with ruby-red shells - **AliExpress**: https://s.click.aliexpress.com/e/_c3JlhgN1 #### Pros - Punchy, deep bass tuning inspired by traditional lion dance drumming - Striking translucent ruby-red resin shells with custom lion faceplates - Bundles Tangzu's premium Tang Sancai silicone eartips - Smooth, fatigue-free treble that remains comfortable over long sessions - Easy to drive straight from a smartphone or basic dongle #### Cons - Elevated bass can slightly soften micro-detail in the lower midrange - Warm, fun tuning rather than neutral or analytical monitoring - Soundstage width and spatial separation are fairly intimate #### Specifications - **Release year**: 2024 - **Drivers per side**: 1 - **Driver types**: dynamic - **Impedance**: 20 Ω - **Frequency response, low end**: 20 Hz - **Frequency response, high end**: 20000 Hz - **Cable connector**: 0.78 mm 2-pin - **Plugs**: 3.5 mm - **Shell material**: Resin - **Weight**: 4.5 g #### Details & Specifications The TANGZU Wan'er S.G II Red Lion (also known as the Lion Edition or Bass Version) is a bass-forward retune of Tangzu's acclaimed budget IEM. Designed to evoke the rhythmic energy of traditional Chinese lion dancing, Tangzu reworked the acoustic chamber behind the 10 mm dynamic driver and fitted a revised PET diaphragm for thicker sub-bass rumble and punchier mid-bass slam. Listeners describe a lively, musical presentation with rich lower registers and warm, clear vocals that resist harshness or sibilance. The translucent ruby-red shells showcase the internal acoustic structure and feature gold-and-red lion-mask artwork under the faceplates. Tangzu includes their popular Tang Sancai textured silicone ear tips in the box alongside a flexible silver-plated oxygen-free copper cable. - 10 mm dynamic driver with PET diaphragm and acoustic bass chamber - Impedance 20 Ω (±20% @ 1 kHz), sensitivity 113.5 dB (±3 dB @ 1 kHz) - Frequency response 20 Hz to 20 kHz - Translucent ruby-red resin housing with lion-dance faceplate art - Detachable 0.78 mm 2-pin silver-plated oxygen-free copper cable, 3.5 mm plug - Includes Tang Sancai wide-bore silicone eartips - Weight ~4.5 g per earpiece - Released late 2024 ### KZ Vibe X - **Product Page**: https://chi-fi.top/iem/kz-vibe-x - **Category**: Earphones - **Brand**: KZ - **Price**: from $36 USD - **Summary**: Dual-driver earphones with tactile physical bass vibration - **AliExpress**: https://s.click.aliexpress.com/e/_c3Nm7YlZ #### Pros - Dedicated 13 mm vibration driver delivers tactile physical sub-bass rumble - 10 mm Zenith dynamic driver keeps vocals and instruments clear - Independent acoustic division prevents bass from muddying the midrange - Wide, immersive soundstage well suited for gaming and action movies - Stylized bionic mesh metal faceplates with comfortable resin shells #### Cons - Tactile rumble depends heavily on track mastering having sub-20 Hz content - Visceral, fun novelty tuning rather than a neutral reference curve - Earpieces are relatively thick to house both large drivers #### Specifications - **Release year**: 2026 - **Drivers per side**: 2 - **Driver types**: dynamic - **Impedance**: 20 Ω - **Frequency response, low end**: 20 Hz - **Frequency response, high end**: 40000 Hz - **Cable connector**: 0.78 mm 2-pin - **Plugs**: 3.5 mm - **Shell material**: Resin with metal faceplate #### Details & Specifications The KZ Vibe X is an experimental hybrid IEM from Knowledge Zenith designed around physical bass sensations. Alongside a primary acoustic driver, each shell packs a dedicated 13 mm linear vibration driver tuned specifically for ultra-low frequencies down to 5 Hz. Rather than relying entirely on acoustic air pressure, the vibration unit physically resonates with deep sub-bass notes to deliver a visceral, tactile rumble akin to standing near a club subwoofer or using haptic gaming gear. To keep that physical low end from swallowing the entire presentation, KZ uses an independent acoustic division system that routes mids and highs to a 10 mm dynamic driver derived from their Zenith platform. Reviewers note that vocal intelligibility and soundstage openness hold up surprisingly well, making explosions in games and heavy synth lines in EDM feel cinematic. On conventional acoustic or folk tracks lacking extreme sub-bass, however, the vibration driver remains dormant and sounds closer to a standard warm dynamic IEM. - Dual drivers per side: 13 mm ultra-low frequency vibration driver + 10 mm Zenith dynamic driver - Impedance 20 Ω, sensitivity 107 dB - Frequency response 20 Hz to 40 kHz (tactile sub-bass extension down to ~5 Hz) - Metal bionic mesh grille faceplates with ergonomic resin cavities - Detachable recessed 0.78 mm 2-pin silver-plated cable (1.2 m), 3.5 mm plug - Easy to drive from smartphones, laptops, and basic DAC dongles - Released early 2026 ### MOONDROP Dark Saber - **Product Page**: https://chi-fi.top/iem/moondrop-dark-saber - **Category**: Earphones - **Brand**: Moondrop - **Price**: from $800 USD - **Summary**: Ten-driver flagship hybrid earphones with carbon fiber faceplates - **AliExpress**: https://s.click.aliexpress.com/e/_c2w2BNox #### Pros - Ten drivers per side (2 DD + 8 BA) deliver reference-grade resolution and separation - Horizontally opposed dual 10 mm dynamic drivers (H.O.D.D.U.S.) provide tight, textured sub-bass - Aerospace-grade forged carbon fiber faceplates with medical-grade resin shells - Modular cable system with swappable single-ended and balanced termination plugs - Refined tuning following Moondrop's VDSF target with smooth, fatigue-free highs #### Cons - Flagship $800 price tag sits well above typical Chi-Fi budget brackets - Chunky earpieces needed to fit ten acoustic drivers per ear - Very high sensitivity (128 dB/Vrms) can reveal noise floor on budget DACs #### Specifications - **Release year**: 2023 - **Drivers per side**: 10 - **Driver types**: dynamic, balanced armature - **Impedance**: 22 Ω - **Sensitivity**: 128 dB/V - **Frequency response, low end**: 7 Hz - **Frequency response, high end**: 41000 Hz - **Cable connector**: 0.78 mm 2-pin - **Plugs**: 3.5 mm, 4.4 mm - **Shell material**: Medical-grade resin with carbon fiber faceplate #### Details & Specifications The MOONDROP Dark Saber (also written DarkSaber) is Moondrop's flagship hybrid in-ear monitor, packing ten acoustic drivers into each earpiece: two 10 mm dynamic drivers arranged in a horizontally opposed dual dynamic driver module (H.O.D.D.U.S.) for the sub-bass, four custom balanced armatures for the midrange, and four Knowles SWFK balanced armatures handling the high and ultra-high frequencies. Audiophile reviewers highlight its flagship-tier resolution, precise spatial imaging, and nuanced texture across intricate recordings. The opposed dual-driver bass setup delivers deep, physical rumble that stops on a dime, keeping the midrange neutral and articulate. Each shell combines a high-precision medical-grade 3D-printed resin acoustic cavity with handcrafted aerospace-grade forged carbon fiber faceplates, paired with a modular silver-plated copper cable with interchangeable plugs. - 10-driver hybrid configuration: 2 dynamic drivers (10 mm H.O.D.D.U.S.) + 8 balanced armatures (4 custom mid BAs + 4 Knowles SWFK treble BAs) - Impedance 22 Ω (±15% @ 1 kHz), sensitivity 128 dB/Vrms (@ 1 kHz) - Frequency response 7 Hz to 41 kHz (effective 20 Hz to 20 kHz) - Handcrafted forged carbon fiber faceplates with medical-grade resin acoustic chamber - Detachable 0.78 mm 2-pin modular silver-plated copper cable with swappable 3.5 mm and 4.4 mm plugs - High sensitivity makes it easy to power, but pairs best with a low-noise source - Released late 2023 ### KZ Gale - **Product Page**: https://chi-fi.top/iem/kz-gale - **Category**: Earphones - **Brand**: KZ - **Price**: from $11 USD - **Summary**: Ultra-budget gaming earphones with spatial bass tuning - **AliExpress**: https://s.click.aliexpress.com/e/_c3JO8QfN #### Pros - Punchy, responsive bass tuned for gaming sound effects and footsteps - Extremely affordable entry-level price around $11 - Lightweight, ergonomic shells that avoid fatigue during marathon gaming sessions - Detachable 0.75 mm 2-pin cable allows easy replacement - Drives effortlessly straight from a console gamepad, phone, or laptop #### Cons - Bass-heavy, V-shaped tuning is not intended for reference music listening - All-plastic shell feels modest compared to alloy-bodied budget alternatives - Treble can lean slightly splashy on bright recordings #### Specifications - **Release year**: 2025 - **Drivers per side**: 1 - **Driver types**: dynamic - **Impedance**: 24 Ω - **Sensitivity**: 107 dB/mW - **Frequency response, low end**: 10 Hz - **Frequency response, high end**: 20000 Hz - **Cable connector**: 0.75 mm 2-pin - **Plugs**: 3.5 mm - **Shell material**: Plastic resin #### Details & Specifications The KZ Gale is an ultra-budget in-ear monitor designed specifically for competitive gaming and casual entertainment. Driven by an in-house developed 10 mm "super-linear" dynamic driver, the Gale focuses on delivering visceral low-frequency impact—accentuating footsteps, engine rumbles, and explosive action—while maintaining the crisp transients needed for positional spatial awareness in competitive shooters. Listeners note a fun, energetic V-shaped profile that brings excitement to action games and electronic tracks without demanding a powerful external DAC or amp. Its featherweight plastic resin shells feature a contoured ergonomic shape with over-ear cable hooks that seal reliably and eliminate the heavy headband pressure of conventional gaming headsets. While purists will find the midrange too recessed for analytical music appreciation, it offers exceptional gaming value for around $11. - Single 10 mm super-linear dynamic driver - Impedance 24 Ω, sensitivity 107 dB/mW @ 1 kHz - Frequency response 10 Hz to 20 kHz - Lightweight ergonomic plastic resin housing with over-ear fit - Detachable 0.75 mm 2-pin silver-plated cable (1.2 m), 3.5 mm plug - Easy to drive directly from game controllers, laptops, and basic phone dongles - Released mid 2025 ### FiiO JH13 - **Product Page**: https://chi-fi.top/iem/fiio-jh13 - **Category**: Earphones - **Brand**: FiiO - **Price**: from $40 USD - **Summary**: Three-driver hybrid earphones with natural zebrawood faceplates - **AliExpress**: https://s.click.aliexpress.com/e/_c4FPv36J #### Pros - Three-driver hybrid setup (1 DD + 2 BAs) provides deep bass and airy treble - Handcrafted genuine zebrawood faceplates give each earpiece a unique grain - Asymmetrical dual-magnetic 10 mm dynamic driver delivers clean, punchy low end - Pressure-relief acoustic design prevents ear pressure during extended sessions - Very easy to drive straight from any smartphone, laptop, or budget dongle #### Cons - Warm, consumer-friendly V-shaped tuning rather than flat studio monitoring - Upper treble can occasionally sound energetic on aggressive recordings - Semi-translucent resin body feels light compared to full metal designs #### Specifications - **Release year**: 2024 - **Drivers per side**: 3 - **Driver types**: dynamic, balanced armature - **Impedance**: 24 Ω - **Sensitivity**: 110 dB/mW - **Frequency response, low end**: 10 Hz - **Frequency response, high end**: 40000 Hz - **Cable connector**: 0.78 mm 2-pin - **Plugs**: 3.5 mm - **Shell material**: Resin with zebrawood faceplate #### Details & Specifications The FiiO JH13 (co-developed under FiiO's JadeAudio sub-brand) is a triple-driver hybrid in-ear monitor combining a custom 10 mm dynamic driver with dual balanced armatures per side. Built around an asymmetrical dual-magnetic circuit and a lightweight Japanese CCAW voice coil, the dynamic driver handles the low end with quick, authoritative punch, while the two balanced armatures take charge of the midrange and upper treble for vocal articulation and spatial sparkle. Reviewers describe a lively, musical presentation with full-bodied bass and an open, layered soundstage that excels across modern pop, indie, and electronic genres. The earpieces feature distinctive faceplates cut from real zebrawood, set into ergonomically contoured resin cavities with built-in front-cavity pressure vents to reduce listening fatigue. It includes a detachable high-purity oxygen-free copper (OFC) cable with standard 0.78 mm 2-pin connectors and a gold-plated 3.5 mm termination. - Triple-driver hybrid setup: 1 custom 10 mm dynamic driver + 2 custom balanced armatures per side - Impedance 24 Ω, sensitivity 110 dB/mW - Frequency response 10 Hz to 40 kHz - Genuine zebrawood faceplates with ergonomic semi-translucent resin cavities - Detachable 0.78 mm 2-pin high-purity oxygen-free copper cable, 3.5 mm plug - Built-in acoustic pressure relief vent for all-day comfort - High efficiency makes it simple to power from phones, game controllers, or basic dongles - Released 2024 ### 7Hz G1 - **Product Page**: https://chi-fi.top/iem/7hz-g1 - **Category**: Earphones - **Brand**: 7Hz - **Price**: from $35 USD - **Summary**: Dual-cavity DLC dynamic driver earphones for gaming and music - **AliExpress**: https://s.click.aliexpress.com/e/_c3vcsezv #### Pros - Custom 10 mm dual-cavity dynamic driver with high-flux N52 neodymium magnets - Diamond-like carbon (DLC) diaphragm delivers fast transient speed and low distortion - Balanced frequency response following the Harman target curve with transparent mids - Compact, low-profile ergonomic aluminum housing comfortable enough for sleeping - Detachable 0.78 mm 2-pin oxygen-free copper twisted cable with inline microphone option #### Cons - Harman-oriented bass profile may feel too polite for hardcore bassheads - Minimalist all-metal industrial design lacks decorative or artistic faceplates - Included cable has fixed single-ended termination without modular plugs #### Specifications - **Release year**: 2024 - **Drivers per side**: 1 - **Driver types**: dynamic - **Impedance**: 18 Ω - **Sensitivity**: 107 dB/V - **Frequency response, low end**: 10 Hz - **Frequency response, high end**: 20000 Hz - **Cable connector**: 0.78 mm 2-pin - **Plugs**: 3.5 mm - **Shell material**: Aluminum alloy #### Details & Specifications The 7Hz G1 is an in-ear monitor designed as an all-round performer for both competitive gaming and immersive music listening. Anchoring the design is a newly developed 10 mm dynamic driver featuring a dual-magnetic, dual-cavity structure driven by high-flux N52 neodymium magnets. Its diaphragm is engineered with a Diamond-Like Carbon (DLC) coating, providing high rigidity and low mass to minimize harmonic distortion and maintain crisp transient response across rapid transients. Acoustically tuned with multi-layered damping to closely trace the Harman target curve, the G1 provides balanced sub-bass extension, uncolored and articulate midrange reproduction, and smooth, fatigue-free upper treble. This cohesive response excels at conveying spatial pinna cues and footsteps in competitive gaming while rendering acoustic instruments and vocal harmonies naturally. The CNC-finished anodized aluminum shells are intentionally compact and low-profile, resting flush inside the concha to enable extended gaming sessions and comfortable side-sleeping. - Flagship 10 mm dual-cavity, dual-magnetic dynamic driver with Diamond-Like Carbon (DLC) diaphragm - High-flux N52 neodymium magnet assembly for fast transient recovery and controlled dynamics - Impedance 18 Ω, sensitivity 107 dB/V@1kHz - Frequency response 10 Hz – 20,000 Hz with low total harmonic distortion (<0.5%) - Precision-engineered aluminum alloy shells with flush, ergonomic fit suitable for sleeping - Detachable 0.78 mm 2-pin twisted oxygen-free copper (OFC) cable with 3.5 mm gold-plated plug - Clean directional staging and pin-point instrument separation suited for music and gaming - Released late 2024 ### KZ Taurus - **Product Page**: https://chi-fi.top/iem/kz-taurus - **Category**: Earphones - **Brand**: KZ - **Price**: from $25 USD - **Summary**: Horizontal dual dynamic driver earphones with electronic crossover - **AliExpress**: https://s.click.aliexpress.com/e/_c3NioEfl #### Pros - Innovative horizontal dual 8 mm dynamic driver layout with dedicated low-frequency driver - Professional electronic crossover divides bass, midrange, and treble for distinct layering - Horizontal sound conduit geometry minimizes transmission loss to maximize clarity - Ultra-lightweight ergonomic resin shells provide fatigue-free long-session comfort - Detachable 0.78 mm 2-pin silver-plated cable compatible with Bluetooth ear hook adapters #### Cons - Tuning prioritizes clarity and upper mids over sub-bass rumble, unlike basshead models - All-resin plastic construction feels lightweight compared to zinc or aluminum shells - Energetic upper treble can emphasize sibilance on compressed or bright tracks #### Specifications - **Release year**: 2025 - **Drivers per side**: 2 - **Driver types**: dynamic - **Impedance**: 36 Ω - **Sensitivity**: 105 dB/mW - **Frequency response, low end**: 20 Hz - **Frequency response, high end**: 40000 Hz - **Cable connector**: 0.78 mm 2-pin - **Plugs**: 3.5 mm - **Shell material**: Resin - **Colors**: Translucent black, Crystal, White #### Details & Specifications The KZ Taurus is an in-ear monitor built around a distinctive horizontal dual dynamic driver architecture. Instead of placing drivers face-to-face or coaxially, KZ engineers arranged dual 8 mm dynamic drivers horizontally side-by-side inside the cavity, routing them through an integrated horizontal acoustic conduit. This design shortens the path from the diaphragm to the sound tube, substantially reducing wave interference and high-frequency acoustic transmission loss. Frequency management is handled by an active electronic crossover circuit that partitions the spectrum between an independent bass driver and a wideband mid-to-high dynamic driver. This separation produces crisp vocal articulation, precise spatial cue positioning for competitive gaming, and distinct instrumental layering without mid-bass bloom muddying the lower registers. The lightweight resin shells contour comfortably to the ear, paired with standard 0.78 mm 2-pin recessed sockets and a detachable dual-parallel silver-plated cable that can easily be swapped for KZ's wireless Bluetooth ear hooks. - Horizontal dual dynamic driver configuration: two high-performance 8 mm dynamic drivers - Dedicated low-frequency dynamic driver paired with electronic crossover circuitry - Impedance 36 Ω, sensitivity 105 dB/mW @ 1 kHz - Broad frequency response from 20 Hz to 40,000 Hz - Direct horizontal sound conduit reduces internal acoustic reflection and loss - Lightweight ergonomic translucent resin housing available in translucent black, crystal, and white - Detachable 0.78 mm 2-pin silver-plated cable (1.2 m) with 3.5 mm termination - Compatible with KZ wireless Bluetooth ear hooks (AZ09, AZ15, AZ20) - Released 2025 ### KZ Decet - **Product Page**: https://chi-fi.top/iem/kz-decet - **Category**: Earphones - **Brand**: KZ - **Price**: from $39 USD - **Summary**: Ten-driver dynamic earphones with five dynamic drivers per side - **AliExpress**: https://s.click.aliexpress.com/e/_c3ixqDcx #### Pros - Ambitious 10-driver acoustic setup featuring five dynamic drivers per side in a dual-sided array - Dual 8 mm internal-magnetic drivers produce deep, physical sub-bass rumble and impact - Three 6 mm dynamic drivers deliver clear midrange vocals and extended treble sparkle - Integrated three-way electronic crossover prevents acoustic distortion and driver masking - Zinc alloy faceplates with mechanical bolt detailing and 3D-printed acoustic cavity #### Cons - Substantial shell volume needed to house five dynamic drivers may feel bulky in smaller ears - Energetic V-shaped sound signature emphasizes bass slam over flat studio neutrality - Recessed 0.75 mm 2-pin connector limits third-party cable swaps to QDC-style plugs #### Specifications - **Release year**: 2025 - **Drivers per side**: 5 - **Driver types**: dynamic - **Frequency response, low end**: 20 Hz - **Frequency response, high end**: 40000 Hz - **Cable connector**: 0.75 mm 2-pin - **Plugs**: 3.5 mm - **Shell material**: 3D-printed resin with zinc alloy faceplate #### Details & Specifications The KZ Decet is a multi-driver in-ear monitor designed around a ten-driver all-dynamic acoustic engine—packing five discrete dynamic drivers into each earpiece. Rather than relying on balanced armatures for higher registers, KZ developed a dual-sided array of specialized dynamic drivers: two 8 mm ultra-wideband internal-magnetic drivers dedicated to low-frequency slam, accompanied by three 6 mm high-performance internal-magnetic drivers calibrated for midrange texture and high-frequency extension. By utilizing dynamic drivers across the entire frequency spectrum, the Decet achieves a uniform acoustic timbre and substantial dynamic headroom, avoiding the metallic treble artifacts sometimes found in entry-level balanced armature hybrids. An on-board three-way electronic crossover board routes frequencies through independent acoustic channels inside the high-precision 3D-printed resin chamber, ensuring that deep sub-bass rumble does not bleed into the vocal range. The shells are capped with sculpted zinc alloy faceplates secured with exposed hardware, complemented by a detachable 0.75 mm 2-pin silver-plated cable and slow-rebound memory foam ear tips. - Ten-driver all-dynamic configuration: 5 dynamic drivers per side (10 drivers total) - Dual 8 mm ultra-wideband internal magnetic dynamic drivers for sub-bass and mid-bass - Triple 6 mm high-performance dynamic drivers for articulate midrange and detailed highs - Dedicated 3-way electronic crossover circuit and independent sound output channels - Frequency response 20 Hz to 40,000 Hz - Impedance 15 Ω (Standard version) / 17 Ω (Tuning version), sensitivity 102–105 dB - Robust zinc alloy faceplates with high-precision 3D-printed resin cavities - Detachable 0.75 mm 2-pin silver-plated cable (1.2 m) with 3.5 mm gold-plated plug - Released early 2025 ### KZ Axas - **Product Page**: https://chi-fi.top/iem/kz-axas - **Category**: Earphones - **Brand**: KZ - **Price**: from $13 USD - **Summary**: FPS gaming in-ear monitors tuned for positional spatial audio - **AliExpress**: https://s.click.aliexpress.com/e/_c35coOaT #### Pros - Self-developed high-sensitivity micro dynamic driver engineered to suppress split vibration - Tuned specifically for FPS gaming to isolate footsteps, gunshot cues, and reload sounds - Ultra-lightweight resin shells with mirror-finish faceplates eliminate fatigue during long sessions - Custom liquid silicone ear tips provide comfortable sealing and passive noise isolation - Detachable 0.78 mm 2-pin silver-plated cable allows easy replacement or microphone upgrades - High sensitivity (107 dB) drives effortlessly from standard PC jacks, laptops, and gamepads #### Cons - Gaming-oriented tuning focuses on positional clarity over reference midrange neutrality - Mirror-finish faceplates readily pick up fingerprints and minor handling marks - Stock silver-plated cable is thin and tangle-prone #### Specifications - **Release year**: 2025 - **Drivers per side**: 1 - **Driver types**: dynamic - **Impedance**: 20 Ω - **Sensitivity**: 107 dB/mW - **Frequency response, low end**: 10 Hz - **Frequency response, high end**: 20000 Hz - **Cable connector**: 0.78 mm 2-pin - **Plugs**: 3.5 mm - **Shell material**: Resin #### Details & Specifications The KZ Axas is an ultra-budget in-ear monitor engineered specifically for competitive FPS gaming and immersive multimedia audio. Conceived as an agile, lightweight alternative to bulky over-ear headsets, the Axas employs a self-developed high-sensitivity micro dynamic driver engineered to suppress diaphragm split vibration. By positioning the micro driver in close acoustic proximity to the ear canal, the Axas maintains low harmonic distortion and rapid transient response, allowing gamers to distinguish directional cues—such as enemy footsteps, weapon reloads, and distant gunshots—with pinpoint spatial precision in competitive shooters like Counter-Strike 2, Valorant, and PUBG. Crafted from skin-friendly resin and finished with a textured mirror-sheen faceplate inspired by acoustic soundwaves, the ergonomic shells rest comfortably inside the concha without the clamping force, heat, or headband pressure of traditional gaming gear. Included custom liquid silicone ear tips establish an airtight acoustic seal to block outside distractions and maintain sub-bass definition. With a 20 Ω impedance and 107 dB sensitivity, the Axas reaches full dynamic volume straight out of PC soundcards, game console controllers, or budget USB dongles via its detachable 0.78 mm 2-pin silver-plated cable. - Self-developed high-sensitivity micro dynamic driver with anti-split-vibration composite diaphragm - Acoustic tuning optimized for competitive FPS gaming and spatial positional awareness - Frequency response 10 Hz to 20,000 Hz - Impedance 20 Ω, sensitivity 107 dB/mW @ 1 kHz - Ultra-lightweight resin chamber with mirror-finish soundwave faceplate - Ergonomic over-ear design with custom liquid silicone ear tips - Detachable 0.78 mm 2-pin silver-plated cable (1.2 m) with 3.5 mm gold-plated plug - Effortlessly driven directly from laptops, PC audio jacks, and console gamepads - Released early 2025 ### CVJ Vivian - **Product Page**: https://chi-fi.top/iem/cvj-vivian - **Category**: Earphones - **Brand**: CVJ - **Price**: from $18 USD - **Summary**: Warm budget earphones with punchy bass and gothic faceplates - **AliExpress**: https://s.click.aliexpress.com/e/_c4O0VExl #### Pros - 10 mm dual-magnetic dynamic driver delivers punchy, physical sub-bass rumble - Warm, fun V-shaped tuning that avoids harsh treble spikes or sibilance - Distinctive CNC-textured metal faceplate with dark gothic typography - Lightweight smoked resin shell provides a comfortable, fatigue-free fit - Detachable 0.78 mm 2-pin braided cable allows simple swapping or upgrades - Drives easily directly from console gamepads, laptops, and phone dongles #### Cons - Bass-forward tuning produces minor low-end bleed into the lower midrange - Smooth treble lacks upper-end sparkle and analytical micro-detail - Bundled cable and silicone ear tips are basic budget-grade accessories #### Specifications - **Release year**: 2024 - **Drivers per side**: 1 - **Driver types**: dynamic - **Impedance**: 22 Ω - **Frequency response, low end**: 20 Hz - **Frequency response, high end**: 20000 Hz - **Cable connector**: 0.78 mm 2-pin - **Plugs**: 3.5 mm - **Shell material**: Resin with metal faceplate #### Details & Specifications The CVJ Vivian is an ultra-budget in-ear monitor engineered around a single 10 mm dual-magnetic dynamic driver with a composite-resin diaphragm. Positioned comfortably under $20, the Vivian prioritizes an engaging, musical listening experience rather than sterile studio analysis. Its acoustic tuning delivers an energetic, warm V-shaped sound profile anchored by substantial sub-bass rumble, punchy mid-bass impact, and a smooth, fatigue-free treble response suited for casual music listening, movie playback, and gaming. Aesthetically, the Vivian distinguishes itself from typical budget earphones with a dark, gothic industrial visual style. The lightweight smoked resin cavity is capped with an anodized metal faceplate featuring 3D digital-embossed typography, complemented by an ergonomic contour that sits flush in the concha with minimal ear pressure. The earphones feature a standard detachable 0.78 mm 2-pin connector, bundled with an oxygen-free copper braided cable and 3.5 mm gold-plated plug, making it effortless to drive directly from gamepads, phones, and budget USB dongles without dedicated amplification. - 10 mm dual-magnetic dynamic driver with composite-resin diaphragm - Warm V-shaped acoustic tuning with emphasized sub-bass and smooth highs - Frequency response 20 Hz to 20,000 Hz - Impedance 22 Ω (±15%), sensitivity 95 dB - Ergonomic smoked resin shell with CNC-textured anodized metal faceplate - Detachable 0.78 mm 2-pin braided cable (1.2 m) with 3.5 mm gold-plated plug - Compact, lightweight fit with passive acoustic noise isolation - Easy to drive from smartphones, gamepads, laptops, and basic audio dongles - Released late 2024 ### KZ EDZ - **Product Page**: https://chi-fi.top/iem/kz-edz - **Category**: Earphones - **Brand**: KZ - **Price**: from $12 USD - **Summary**: EDX series collector's edition earphones with ultra-wideband dynamic driver - **AliExpress**: https://s.click.aliexpress.com/e/_c3WXvw2x #### Pros - Self-developed ultra-wideband dynamic driver covers 7 Hz to 45 kHz with fast transients - Dual damping system (nozzle damper and metal filter) tames harsh high-frequency peaks - Collector's edition tuning refines the EDX legacy with punchy bass and clean vocal clarity - Ergonomic resin housing with gold-accented metal faceplate inlays - Detachable 0.75 mm 2-pin silver-plated cable allows easy replacement - High sensitivity (107 dB) drives effortlessly from phones, laptops, and gamepads #### Cons - Stock accessories are minimal, shipping with standard silicone tips and a basic cable - Soundstage presentation is intimate rather than expansive - Engaging, energetic V-shaped tuning favors pop and rock over reference neutrality #### Specifications - **Release year**: 2025 - **Drivers per side**: 1 - **Driver types**: dynamic - **Impedance**: 24 Ω - **Sensitivity**: 107 dB/mW - **Frequency response, low end**: 7 Hz - **Frequency response, high end**: 45000 Hz - **Cable connector**: 0.75 mm 2-pin - **Plugs**: 3.5 mm - **Shell material**: Resin with metal faceplate #### Details & Specifications The KZ EDZ is a collector's edition in-ear monitor from Knowledge Zenith, designed as the culminating finale to the brand's long-running, best-selling EDX series. Building on iterations from the original EDX, EDX Pro, and EDX Pro 2, the EDZ introduces a newly developed ultra-wideband, long-excursion dynamic driver capable of reaching an expansive 7 Hz to 45,000 Hz frequency response. This acoustic setup delivers deep, impactful sub-bass punch and rapid transient response without congesting the midrange. To resolve the sharp treble sibilance that challenged earlier ultra-budget models, KZ integrated a dual-stage damping system consisting of an internal nozzle tuning damper paired with a protective metal acoustic filter. This mechanical filtering smoothens high-frequency extension, rendering vocals and cymbals with cleaner definition. The earpieces feature skin-friendly transparent resin cavities finished with gold-trimmed metal faceplate inlays, and connect through a detachable 0.75 mm 2-pin silver-plated dual-parallel cable terminating in a 3.5 mm jack. With a 24 Ω impedance and 107 dB/mW sensitivity, the EDZ drives cleanly and reaches full dynamic volume straight from smartphones, laptops, and game controllers. - Self-developed ultra-wideband, long-excursion dynamic driver - Dual-stage acoustic damping system with nozzle damper and metal sound filter - Frequency response 7 Hz to 45,000 Hz - Impedance 24 Ω, sensitivity 107 dB/mW @ 1 kHz - Ergonomic transparent resin cavity with inlaid metal faceplates - Detachable 0.75 mm 2-pin silver-plated dual-parallel cable (1.2 m) with 3.5 mm plug - Over-ear ergonomic contour with memory ear hooks and passive noise isolation - Released early 2025 ### MOONDROP Harmon - **Product Page**: https://chi-fi.top/iem/moondrop-harmon - **Category**: Earphones - **Brand**: Moondrop - **Price**: from $350 USD - **Summary**: Triple dynamic driver earphones with isobaric sub-bass and glass-dome treble - **AliExpress**: https://s.click.aliexpress.com/e/_c4oQB8WL #### Pros - Unique 3-dynamic-driver setup pairs isobaric dual sub-woofers with a glass-dome mid-treble driver - Horizontally opposed dual 10 mm dynamic driver module (H.O.D.D.D.U.S.) yields tight, physical sub-bass - Coaxial four-cavity acoustic architecture provides precise mechanical crossover division - High-precision medical resin cavities crafted with HeyGears and faceted CNC metal faceplates - Modular silver-plated cable includes interchangeable 3.5 mm and 4.4 mm balanced plugs - Engaging, dynamic acoustic presentation with expansive soundstage and ultra-low distortion (≤0.1%) #### Cons - Higher-tier $350 price tag sits above entry-level Chi-Fi brackets - Chunky multi-cavity acoustic housings can feel substantial in smaller ears - Engaging U-shaped tuning diverges from Moondrop's traditional neutral VDSF reference target #### Specifications - **Release year**: 2025 - **Drivers per side**: 3 - **Driver types**: dynamic - **Impedance**: 19 Ω - **Sensitivity**: 114 dB/V - **Frequency response, low end**: 10 Hz - **Frequency response, high end**: 60000 Hz - **Cable connector**: 0.78 mm 2-pin - **Plugs**: 3.5 mm, 4.4 mm - **Shell material**: 3D-printed resin with metal faceplate #### Details & Specifications The MOONDROP Harmon (styled HARMON XTM-3DD) is a high-performance in-ear monitor from Moondrop featuring a rare all-dynamic three-driver (3DD) architecture. Built around a coaxial four-cavity acoustic structure, the Harmon dedicates two specialized 10 mm paper-cone composite diaphragm dynamic drivers to sub-bass duties using Moondrop's proprietary H.O.D.D.D.U.S. (Horizontally Opposed Dual Dynamic Driver Unit System) isobaric setup. Mid and high frequencies are reproduced by a separate 10 mm dynamic driver equipped with an ultra-rigid glass-dome composite diaphragm, delivering rapid acoustic transients, high-frequency air, and remarkably low distortion (≤0.1%). Departing from strictly neutral VDSF curves, the Harmon is tuned for an engaging, dynamic U-shaped presentation. The isobaric sub-bass engine produces tight, tactile impact with authentic physical weight, while the glass-dome driver renders female vocals, brass, and cymbals with transparent separation and spatial depth. Each shell is manufactured using high-precision 3D printing in collaboration with HeyGears, finished with faceted CNC-machined metal faceplates inspired by geometric origami. The Harmon includes a modular silver-plated copper cable with interchangeable 3.5 mm single-ended and 4.4 mm balanced termination plugs. - Triple dynamic driver configuration: 2x 10 mm paper-cone bass drivers (H.O.D.D.D.U.S.) + 1x 10 mm glass-dome mid-treble driver - Coaxial four-cavity frequency crossover acoustic structure - Frequency response 10 Hz to 60,000 Hz (effective 20 Hz to 20,000 Hz) - Impedance 19 Ω ± 15% (@ 1 kHz), sensitivity 114 dB/Vrms (@ 1 kHz) - Total harmonic distortion (THD) ≤ 0.1% (@ 1 kHz, 94 dB) - High-precision 3D-printed medical resin shell with faceted CNC-machined metal faceplates - Detachable 0.78 mm 2-pin modular silver-plated cable with swappable 3.5 mm and 4.4 mm plugs - Bundled leatherette storage case and assorted silicone ear tips - Released early 2025 ## Retro handhelds Pocket consoles for playing classic games. Some run Android, so they can play phone games too. ### Trimui Smart Pro - **Product Page**: https://chi-fi.top/handhelds/trimui-smart-pro - **Category**: Retro handhelds - **Brand**: TrimUI - **Price**: from $60 USD - **Summary**: Widescreen retro game handheld - **AliExpress**: https://s.click.aliexpress.com/e/_c4Nl29bl #### Pros - Bright 4.96-inch 720p screen, great for the price - Solid build and a PSP-style design - Easy software with screen filters set up out of the box - Can rotate for vertical arcade games #### Cons - Small, short-travel D-pad makes fighting games and diagonals hard - Older chip: fine up to PS1, shaky on N64, Dreamcast and PSP - No touchscreen, so DS games are awkward - Gets warm quickly, and the L2/R2 triggers are stiff #### Specifications - **Chip**: Allwinner A133P - **RAM**: 1 GB - **Screen size**: 4.96 in - **Screen resolution**: 1280×720 - **Battery capacity**: 5000 mAh #### Details & Specifications The TrimUI Smart Pro is a widescreen retro handheld in a PSP-style shape. Its bright 4.96-inch 720p screen is great for the price, the build is solid, and the software is easy to use, with screen filters set up out of the box. It can also rotate for vertical arcade games. The small, short-travel D-pad makes fighting games and diagonal moves hard. The chip is older: fine up to PS1, shaky on N64, Dreamcast and PSP. There's no touchscreen, so DS games are awkward. It gets warm quickly, and the L2/R2 triggers are stiff. A newer Smart Pro S fixes some of this, so check which model the listing is. - 4.96-inch 720p IPS screen - Allwinner A133P chip, 1 GB RAM - microSD storage - 5000 mAh battery, about 5 hours (maker's figure) - Two USB-C ports, 3.5 mm headphone jack ### Boyhom R36S - **Product Page**: https://chi-fi.top/handhelds/boyhom-r36s - **Category**: Retro handhelds - **Brand**: Boyhom - **Price**: from $33 USD - **Summary**: Pocket handheld for classic games - **AliExpress**: https://s.click.aliexpress.com/e/_c4qp7EoL #### Pros - A very cheap way into retro gaming - Plays 8-bit, 16-bit and PS1 games well, plus many N64, PSP and DS titles - Two analog sticks and a 3.5-inch 4:3 screen - Many units can run community firmware such as dArkOS #### Cons - The bundled microSD card is often low quality and can fail; plan to replace it - Many clones are sold under the R36S name, and some can't run community firmware - Buttons and sticks can feel loose or cheap on some units - Can't run PS2, GameCube or Wii games #### Specifications - **Chip**: Rockchip RK3326 - **RAM**: 1 GB - **Screen size**: 3.5 in - **Screen resolution**: 640×480 - **Battery capacity**: 3500 mAh #### Details & Specifications The Boyhom R36S is one of the cheapest ways into retro gaming. It's an upright handheld with a 3.5-inch 4:3 screen and two analog sticks. It plays 8-bit, 16-bit and PS1 games well, and many N64, PSP and DS games too. PS2, GameCube and Wii games are beyond it. Two things to know before buying. The microSD card it comes with is often low quality and can fail, so plan to copy your games to a better card. And many clones are sold under the R36S name; some can't run community firmware such as dArkOS, which many owners use instead of the stock software. Buttons and sticks can feel loose or cheap on some units. - 3.5-inch 640×480 IPS screen - Rockchip RK3326 chip, 1 GB RAM - Two analog sticks - microSD storage - 3500 mAh battery, up to 6 hours (maker's figure) ### Retroid Pocket 5 - **Product Page**: https://chi-fi.top/handhelds/retroid-pocket-5 - **Category**: Retro handhelds - **Brand**: Retroid - **Price**: from $224 USD - **Summary**: Android handheld with an OLED screen - **AliExpress**: https://s.click.aliexpress.com/e/_c38TggYx #### Pros - Bright 5.5-inch 1080p AMOLED screen - Handles PS2, GameCube and PSP well, and some Switch and PS3 games - Hall-effect sticks that shouldn't drift - Curved back that's comfortable to hold #### Cons - Only a modest speed bump over the Retroid Pocket 4 Pro - The D-pad sits low, which is awkward in games that lean on the left stick - 128 GB of storage fills fast; plan on a microSD card - Still small, so larger hands can cramp #### Specifications - **Chip**: Qualcomm Snapdragon 865 - **RAM**: 8 GB - **Internal storage**: 128 GB - **Screen size**: 5.5 in - **Screen resolution**: 1920×1080 - **Operating system**: Android - **Stick sensors**: Hall effect - **Battery capacity**: 5000 mAh #### Details & Specifications The Retroid Pocket 5 is the most powerful and most expensive handheld here. Its bright 5.5-inch 1080p AMOLED screen looks great, and it handles PS2, GameCube and PSP well, plus some Switch and PS3 games. The Hall-effect sticks shouldn't drift, and the curved back is comfortable to hold. If you already own a Retroid Pocket 4 Pro, it's only a modest speed bump. The D-pad sits low, which is awkward in games that lean on the left stick. The 128 GB of storage fills fast, so plan on a microSD card, and larger hands can cramp. - 5.5-inch 1080p AMOLED touchscreen - Qualcomm Snapdragon 865 chip, 8 GB RAM - 128 GB storage plus microSD - Android 13 - Hall-effect sticks and analog triggers - Active cooling fan - 5000 mAh battery ### ANBERNIC RG Cubexx - **Product Page**: https://chi-fi.top/handhelds/anbernic-rg-cubexx - **Category**: Retro handhelds - **Brand**: ANBERNIC - **Price**: from $69 USD - **Summary**: Retro game handheld with a square screen - **AliExpress**: https://s.click.aliexpress.com/e/_c4nf16o7 #### Pros - Square 3.95-inch 720×720 screen that suits Game Boy and older games - Wi-Fi, Bluetooth and HDMI out for TV play and wireless controllers - Comfortable rear grips, a good D-pad and well-travelled buttons #### Cons - Older H700 chip with 1 GB RAM: best for PS1 and older, with N64, Dreamcast and PSP hit and miss - The square screen leaves black bars on most games made for other shapes - No touchscreen, so DS games are awkward #### Specifications - **Chip**: Allwinner H700 - **RAM**: 1 GB - **Screen size**: 3.95 in - **Screen resolution**: 720×720 - **Video out**: Yes - **Battery capacity**: 3800 mAh - **Weight**: 243 g #### Details & Specifications The Anbernic RG CubeXX is a retro handheld with an unusual square screen. The 3.95-inch, 720×720 display suits Game Boy and other older games especially well. It has Wi-Fi, Bluetooth and HDMI out, so you can play on a TV or use a wireless controller, and the rear grips, D-pad and buttons are comfortable. Its chip is older (the same H700 found in many cheap handhelds), so it's best for PS1 and older systems; N64, Dreamcast and PSP are hit and miss. Games made for other screen shapes show black bars, and there's no touchscreen, which makes DS games awkward. - 3.95-inch 720×720 IPS screen - Allwinner H700 chip, 1 GB RAM - Two microSD slots - Wi-Fi, Bluetooth and HDMI out - 3800 mAh battery, about 6.5 hours (maker's figure) - About 243 g ### ANBERNIC RG35XX H - **Product Page**: https://chi-fi.top/handhelds/anbernic-rg35xx-h - **Category**: Retro handhelds - **Brand**: ANBERNIC - **Price**: from $47 USD - **Summary**: Pocket-size retro game handheld - **AliExpress**: https://s.click.aliexpress.com/e/_c2JykyU3 #### Pros - Runs PS1 and older systems smoothly - Two analog sticks, unlike the other RG35XX models - Great-feeling D-pad and buttons - Two microSD slots: one for the system, one for games #### Cons - PSP and Dreamcast are playable but can stutter - Stock software is basic; many owners install community firmware - The IPS screen shows dark scenes as greyish #### Specifications - **Chip**: Allwinner H700 - **RAM**: 1 GB - **Screen size**: 3.5 in - **Screen resolution**: 640×480 - **Video out**: Yes - **Battery capacity**: 3300 mAh - **Weight**: 180 g #### Details & Specifications The Anbernic RG35XX H is a small, sideways-held retro handheld. It runs PS1 and older systems smoothly, and unlike the other RG35XX models it has two analog sticks. The D-pad and buttons feel great, and it has two microSD slots: one for the system and one for your games. PSP and Dreamcast games are playable but can stutter. The stock software is basic, so many owners install community firmware. The IPS screen shows dark scenes as greyish rather than black. - 3.5-inch 640×480 IPS screen - Allwinner H700 chip, 1 GB RAM - Two analog sticks - Two microSD slots - Wi-Fi, Bluetooth and HDMI out - 3300 mAh battery, about 8 hours (maker's figure) - About 180 g ### Boyhom K56 - **Product Page**: https://chi-fi.top/handhelds/boyhom-k56 - **Category**: Retro handhelds - **Brand**: Boyhom - **Price**: from $105 USD - **Summary**: Android handheld for retro and phone games - **AliExpress**: https://s.click.aliexpress.com/e/_c4VrHHPN #### Pros - Android 14 with ready-made game menus (Pegasus and ES-DE) - Runs everything up to Dreamcast, N64 and PSP well - Good D-pad and Hall-effect sticks - 6 GB RAM and 128 GB storage, plus a microSD slot #### Cons - Plastic build feels cheaper than the price - Mushy triggers and loud menu buttons - GameCube and newer systems are hit and miss - The screen could be brighter #### Specifications - **Chip**: Unisoc T620 - **RAM**: 6 GB - **Internal storage**: 128 GB - **Screen size**: 5.5 in - **Screen resolution**: 1280×720 - **Operating system**: Android - **Stick sensors**: Hall effect - **Battery capacity**: 5000 mAh - **Weight**: 310 g #### Details & Specifications The Boyhom K56 is an Android handheld (also sold as the Kinhank K56) that's ready to play out of the box, with game menus (Pegasus and ES-DE) already set up. It runs everything up to Dreamcast, N64 and PSP well, has a good D-pad and Hall-effect sticks, and comes with 6 GB of RAM and 128 GB of storage plus a microSD slot. Being Android, it can also run phone games and streaming apps. The plastic build feels cheaper than the price, the triggers are mushy and the menu buttons are loud. GameCube and newer systems are hit and miss, and the screen could be brighter. Listings disagree on the screen resolution, so check the listing. - 5.5-inch IPS screen - Unisoc T620 chip, 6 GB RAM - 128 GB storage plus microSD - Android 14 - Hall-effect sticks - 5000 mAh battery, up to 8 hours (maker's figure) - About 310 g ### Miyoo Mini Plus - **Product Page**: https://chi-fi.top/handhelds/miyoo-mini-plus - **Category**: Retro handhelds - **Brand**: Miyoo - **Price**: from $52 USD - **Summary**: Pocket-sized retro handheld for classic games - **AliExpress**: https://s.click.aliexpress.com/e/_c3yDnyPB #### Pros - Very light and pocketable, with a sharp 3.5-inch 640x480 screen - Smooth for NES, SNES, Game Boy, Genesis and most PS1 games - Free OnionOS firmware makes it fast and easy to use - Wi-Fi and a 3000 mAh battery for a few hours of play #### Cons - No analog sticks, so PS1 games that need them and anything 3D are out - Weak chip and tiny memory: PS1 is about the ceiling, N64 mostly doesn't work - The L2/R2 buttons are mushy, and the single speaker distorts when loud - No HDMI out for a TV #### Specifications - **Chip**: SigmaStar SSD202D - **Screen size**: 3.5 in - **Screen resolution**: 640×480 - **Operating system**: Linux - **Battery capacity**: 3000 mAh #### Details & Specifications The Miyoo Mini Plus is a pocket-sized handheld made for older games. The 3.5-inch 640x480 screen is crisp, it's light enough to forget in a jacket pocket, and it runs NES, SNES, Game Boy, Genesis and most PS1 games smoothly. Reviewers recommend swapping the stock software for the free OnionOS firmware, which is quick to set up and easy to live with. It has no analog sticks and a weak chip, so PS1 is about the ceiling and N64 mostly doesn't work. The L2/R2 buttons are mushy and the single speaker distorts when loud. If you want sticks or a bigger screen, look at the Anbernic RG35XX H or the TrimUI Smart Pro instead. Reviews and listings disagree on a few specs, so check what the listing you open actually says. - 3.5-inch 640x480 IPS screen - SigmaStar SSD202D dual-core chip, 128 MB RAM (per most reviews) - Linux, with the OnionOS community firmware recommended - microSD storage - 3000 mAh battery - Wi-Fi, USB-C charging ### TrimUI Brick - **Product Page**: https://chi-fi.top/handhelds/trimui-brick - **Category**: Retro handhelds - **Brand**: TrimUI - **Price**: from $79 USD - **Summary**: Compact metal-back retro handheld with a very sharp screen - **AliExpress**: https://s.click.aliexpress.com/e/_c3ob7oCD #### Pros - Bright, sharp 3.2-inch 1024x768 screen - Metal back panel and solid build for the price - Plays up to PS1 without trouble, plus part of the N64 and PSP libraries - Small and light, with RGB lighting around the frame #### Cons - Flat edges and surfaces give you little to grip - The small L2/R2 buttons are awkward for PS1 games that use them - The removable shoulder buttons can pop off in a pocket - 3000 mAh battery, around 5 hours (maker's figure) #### Specifications - **Chip**: Allwinner A133P - **RAM**: 1 GB - **Internal storage**: 8 GB - **Screen size**: 3.2 in - **Screen resolution**: 1024×768 - **Operating system**: Linux - **Battery capacity**: 3000 mAh #### Details & Specifications The TrimUI Brick is a compact handheld with a metal back panel and a bright 3.2-inch 1024x768 screen that's very sharp for its size. It plays everything up to PS1 without trouble, and part of the N64 and PSP libraries, and the build feels a cut above most devices at this price. It's flat all around, so there's not much to grip, and the small L2/R2 buttons aren't great for PS1 games that need them. The removable shoulder buttons can come off if they snag in a pocket, and the 3000 mAh battery lasts about 5 hours. It's best for 2D games and pixel art, where the sharp screen counts most. Some listings bundle a microSD card with games, so check which bundle you pick; the console works without one. - 3.2-inch 1024x768 IPS screen - Allwinner A133P chip at 1.8 GHz, 1 GB RAM - Linux, with the Crossmix firmware on this listing - 8 GB internal storage plus microSD - 3000 mAh battery - RGB lighting ### ANBERNIC RG35XX SP - **Product Page**: https://chi-fi.top/handhelds/anbernic-rg35xx-sp - **Category**: Retro handhelds - **Brand**: ANBERNIC - **Price**: from $105 USD - **Summary**: Folding retro handheld in a Game Boy Advance SP shape - **AliExpress**: https://s.click.aliexpress.com/e/_c2Qpuv4d #### Pros - Clamshell design that protects the screen in a pocket - Handles 8-bit, 16-bit, arcade and PS1 games well - Mini HDMI out, Wi-Fi, Bluetooth and a headphone jack - 3300 mAh battery, up to 8 hours (maker's figure) #### Cons - No analog stick, so 3D games and PS1 games with two sticks are awkward - Limited N64 and Dreamcast support - The buttons are a little clicky - Costs more than the non-folding RG35XX Plus with the same chip #### Specifications - **Chip**: Allwinner H700 - **RAM**: 1 GB - **Screen size**: 3.5 in - **Screen resolution**: 640×480 - **Operating system**: Linux - **Bluetooth version**: 4.2 - **Video out**: Yes - **Battery capacity**: 3300 mAh #### Details & Specifications The RG35XX SP is a folding handheld that copies the Game Boy Advance SP's shape. The lid protects the screen in a pocket, and the sharp 3.5-inch 640x480 screen suits classic games. It handles 8-bit, 16-bit, arcade and PS1 games well, and has mini HDMI out, Wi-Fi, Bluetooth and a headphone jack. There's no analog stick, so 3D games and PS1 games that use two sticks are awkward, and N64 and Dreamcast support is limited. The buttons are a little clicky. You're paying extra for the folding shape, since the non-folding RG35XX Plus has the same chip. This listing is the official Anbernic store, and other sellers list it for less, so compare before you buy. - 3.5-inch 640x480 IPS screen - Allwinner H700 chip, 1 GB RAM - Linux - Two microSD slots - 3300 mAh battery - Mini HDMI out, Wi-Fi, Bluetooth 4.2 ### ANBERNIC RG35XX Pro - **Product Page**: https://chi-fi.top/handhelds/anbernic-rg35xx-pro - **Category**: Retro handhelds - **Brand**: ANBERNIC - **Price**: from $69 USD - **Summary**: Vertical retro handheld with two analog sticks - **AliExpress**: https://s.click.aliexpress.com/e/_c2Rvy4Q9 #### Pros - Two analog sticks and shoulder buttons in a pocketable body - Solid plastic shell with no flex - Handles most systems up to PS1 and GBA well - Mini HDMI out, Wi-Fi and Bluetooth #### Cons - Only limited support for DS, N64, Dreamcast and PSP - The Linux menu is less intuitive than Android - Battery life is modest, about 5 to 7 hours - Same chip as other RG35XX models, so it's not a big upgrade if you own one #### Specifications - **Chip**: Allwinner H700 - **RAM**: 1 GB - **Screen size**: 3.5 in - **Screen resolution**: 640×480 - **Operating system**: Linux - **Bluetooth version**: 4.2 - **Video out**: Yes - **Battery capacity**: 3200 mAh #### Details & Specifications The RG35XX Pro is a vertical retro handheld with two analog sticks and shoulder buttons, in a body that still fits a pocket. The 3.5-inch 640x480 screen is sharp, the shell is solid plastic with no flex, and most systems up to PS1 and GBA run well. It also has mini HDMI out, Wi-Fi and Bluetooth. DS, N64, Dreamcast and PSP support is limited, and the Linux menu is less intuitive than Android. Battery life is modest at about 5 to 7 hours. It uses the same chip as the other RG35XX models, so if you own one it isn't a big upgrade. If you'd rather hold it sideways, see the RG35XX H. - 3.5-inch 640x480 IPS screen - Allwinner H700 chip, 1 GB RAM - Linux - microSD storage - 3200 mAh battery - Mini HDMI out, Wi-Fi, Bluetooth 4.2 ### ANBERNIC RG DS Plus - **Product Page**: https://chi-fi.top/handhelds/anbernic-rg-ds-plus - **Category**: Retro handhelds - **Brand**: ANBERNIC - **Price**: from $115 USD - **Summary**: Dual-screen handheld for Nintendo DS games - **AliExpress**: https://s.click.aliexpress.com/e/_c3s2g63f #### Pros - Two 4.3-inch 1024x768 screens, exactly 4x the DS resolution so pixels scale cleanly - Built-in stylus and a hinge that opens from 15 to 180 degrees - The D-pad and buttons are said to feel close to the original DS - 4000 mAh battery, about 6 hours (maker's estimate) #### Cons - Same Rockchip RK3568 chip as the original RG DS, so it's a DS machine first - 1 GB of RAM - Linux software with a DS-focused emulator, not Android - The AliExpress price is above the roughly $95 launch price #### Specifications - **Chip**: Rockchip RK3568 - **RAM**: 1 GB - **Screen size**: 4.3 in - **Screen resolution**: 1024×768 - **Operating system**: Linux - **Battery capacity**: 4000 mAh #### Details & Specifications The RG DS Plus is a dual-screen handheld built for Nintendo DS games. Each of its two 4.3-inch screens is 1024x768, exactly four times the DS resolution, so DS games scale in clean pixel blocks. There's a built-in stylus and a hinge that opens from 15 to 180 degrees, and reviewers say the D-pad and buttons feel close to the original DS. The chip is the same Rockchip RK3568 as the original RG DS, with 1 GB of RAM, so think of it as a DS machine first rather than a do-everything handheld. The 4000 mAh battery is rated at about 6 hours. The price on AliExpress is above the roughly $95 launch price, so check what the listing includes. - Two 4.3-inch 1024x768 screens - Rockchip RK3568 chip, 1 GB RAM - Linux with the NNDSS DS emulator - Built-in stylus - 4000 mAh battery - Wi-Fi, Bluetooth ### ANBERNIC RG 476H - **Product Page**: https://chi-fi.top/handhelds/anbernic-rg476h - **Category**: Retro handhelds - **Brand**: ANBERNIC - **Price**: from $194 USD - **Summary**: Android handheld with a sharp 4:3 screen that plays PS2 and GameCube - **AliExpress**: https://s.click.aliexpress.com/e/_c3PB6G65 #### Pros - Sharp, bright 4.7-inch 1280x960 screen, up to 120 Hz - Hall-effect sticks and triggers that shouldn't drift - Plays a good part of the PS2 and GameCube library, and everything lighter - 8 GB RAM and 128 GB of fast storage, plus microSD #### Cons - The Unisoc T820 chip is weaker than the RG 477M's: not every GameCube or PS2 game runs well - The Android software is basic - The L1/R1 buttons are a bit loud, and the microSD door doesn't sit flush - The listing price is well above the roughly $150 reviewers cite #### Specifications - **Chip**: Unisoc T820 - **RAM**: 8 GB - **Internal storage**: 128 GB - **Screen size**: 4.7 in - **Screen resolution**: 1280×960 - **Operating system**: Android - **Stick sensors**: Hall effect - **Battery capacity**: 5000 mAh #### Details & Specifications The RG 476H is a horizontal Android handheld with a standout screen: a bright 4.7-inch 1280x960 4:3 panel that runs up to 120 Hz and scales retro games cleanly. The Hall-effect sticks and triggers shouldn't drift, and 8 GB of RAM with 128 GB of fast storage gives it room to spare. It plays a good part of the PS2 and GameCube library, and everything lighter. The Unisoc T820 chip is weaker than the RG 477M's, so not every GameCube or PS2 game runs well, and the Android software is basic. The L1/R1 buttons are a bit loud and the microSD door doesn't sit flush. Reviewers put the sweet spot around $130 to $150, and this listing is higher, so it's best when the price drops. If you want more power, see the Retroid Pocket 5. - 4.7-inch 1280x960 LTPS screen, 4:3, up to 120 Hz - Unisoc T820 chip, 8 GB RAM - 128 GB UFS 2.2 storage plus microSD - Android 13 - Hall-effect sticks and analog triggers - 5000 mAh battery, about 6 hours (maker's figure) ### TrimUI Brick Pro - **Product Page**: https://chi-fi.top/handhelds/trimui-brick-pro - **Category**: Retro handhelds - **Brand**: TrimUI - **Price**: from $79 USD - **Summary**: Bigger-screen Brick with analog sticks and a larger battery - **AliExpress**: https://s.click.aliexpress.com/e/_c3RjYgWb #### Pros - Bigger, sharp 3.95-inch 1024x768 screen with a good pixel density - Two Hall effect analog sticks, which the original Brick lacks - 5000 mAh battery, a big step up from the Brick's 3000 mAh - Easy stock software, and custom firmware support (KNULLI, CrossMix) #### Cons - Same modest chip and 1 GB RAM as the Brick: PS1 is a comfortable ceiling - N64 and PSP are weak, and GameCube and PS2 are out - Larger than the Brick, so less of a pocket device - Reviewers note low-quality speakers and sticks that mark the shell #### Specifications - **Release year**: 2026 - **Chip**: Allwinner A133P - **RAM**: 1 GB - **Internal storage**: 8 GB - **Screen size**: 3.95 in - **Screen resolution**: 1024×768 - **Operating system**: Linux - **Bluetooth version**: 4.2 - **Video out**: Yes - **Stick sensors**: Hall effect - **Battery capacity**: 5000 mAh - **Colors**: Black, White, Grey #### Details & Specifications The TrimUI Brick Pro is the 2026 bigger sibling of the TrimUI Brick: a vertical handheld with a 3.95-inch 1024x768 screen, two Hall effect analog sticks and a 5000 mAh battery, on the same chip as the original. It's mainly a size, sticks and battery upgrade. Reviewers like the screen, the shoulder buttons and the battery life, and call it good value at around $80 to $100. The chip is modest, so it runs 8-bit to PS1 well, and Dreamcast is about the limit; N64 and PSP are patchy, and GameCube, PS2 and Wii are out of reach. Sources disagree on a few figures (battery and weight), so treat the specs below as the ones most sources agree on. The price here is the listing we link; official TrimUI stores list it at about $100, often discounted. - 3.95-inch IPS screen, 1024x768, 4:3, 60 Hz, about 324 ppi, non-touch - Allwinner A133P chip at 1.8 GHz, PowerVR GE8300 graphics, 1 GB RAM - 8 GB internal storage plus microSD - 5000 mAh battery, USB-C charging (5V/2A) - Two Hall effect analog sticks, 16 buttons including L3 and R3 - Wi-Fi 4 and Bluetooth 4.2; USB-C video output; 3.5 mm headphone jack; stereo speakers - Linux with TrimUI's own firmware; KNULLI and CrossMix are community options - Colors: black, white, grey - Released mid-2026 ### Anbernic RG SP - **Product Page**: https://chi-fi.top/handhelds/anbernic-rg-sp - **Category**: Retro handhelds - **Brand**: Anbernic - **Price**: from $73 USD - **Summary**: Slim GBA SP-style clamshell for Game Boy and 8/16-bit games - **AliExpress**: https://s.click.aliexpress.com/e/_c4L8H4JV #### Pros - Slim clamshell that closes to pocket size, with a bright 3.4-inch screen - Plays Game Boy, GBC and GBA without issues, plus NES, SNES and Genesis - Four colors and HDMI output for a TV - Light, about 168 g #### Cons - No analog sticks, so N64, PSP and other 3D games are poor - Only 1 GB of RAM, so some heavy games struggle - Practically the same as other H700 handhelds, so it's a design pick more than a leap in power - Prices vary by seller and storage size #### Specifications - **Release year**: 2026 - **Chip**: Allwinner H700 - **RAM**: 1 GB - **Screen size**: 3.4 in - **Screen resolution**: 720×480 - **Operating system**: Linux - **Bluetooth version**: 4.2 - **Video out**: Yes - **Battery capacity**: 3300 mAh - **Weight**: 168 g - **Colors**: Platinum, Graphite, Pearl Blue, Pearl Pink #### Details & Specifications The Anbernic RG SP is the 2026 version of Anbernic's Game Boy Advance SP-style clamshell: a slim, light flip handheld with a 3.4-inch screen, a D-pad and face buttons, and no analog sticks. Anbernic lists it from $64.99 for the 16 GB version. It runs Game Boy, Game Boy Color and GBA games without trouble, and NES, SNES and Genesis reliably. Retro Handhelds calls it great up to PS1 and PSP, with some N64 and Dreamcast, but notes some games are too demanding for 1 GB of RAM, and that it is much the same as the many other H700 handhelds. Pick it for the shape and the screen rather than raw power. The price here is the listing we link; official pricing is lower for the 16 GB version. - Allwinner H700 chip at 1.5 GHz, 1 GB DDR3 RAM - 3.4-inch IPS screen, 720x480, laminated - microSD storage (16, 64 or 128 GB depending on the bundle) - 3300 mAh battery, about 4 to 6 hours - No analog sticks; D-pad and face buttons - Wi-Fi and Bluetooth 4.2; USB-C and HDMI output - Linux-based Anbernic firmware - About 168 g, 83 x 82 x 24 mm - Colors: Platinum, Graphite, Pearl Blue, Pearl Pink - Released August 2026 ### Anbernic RG Rotate - **Product Page**: https://chi-fi.top/handhelds/anbernic-rg-rotate - **Category**: Retro handhelds - **Brand**: Anbernic - **Price**: from $89 USD - **Summary**: Square-screen Android handheld with a rotating screen - **AliExpress**: https://s.click.aliexpress.com/e/_c2vJ0SoX #### Pros - Crisp, bright 3.5-inch square screen that suits Game Boy, PICO-8, NES and SNES - Rotating screen design, about the size of a GBA SP when closed - Android 12 with the Play Store, so it also works as a music player - Clicky D-pad and precise buttons #### Cons - No analog sticks, so N64 and PSP are poor - No 3.5 mm headphone jack - Single speaker on the back, and middling 2000 mAh battery - Silver aluminum version costs about $20 more #### Specifications - **Release year**: 2026 - **Chip**: Unisoc T618 - **RAM**: 3 GB - **Internal storage**: 32 GB - **Screen size**: 3.5 in - **Screen resolution**: 720×720 - **Operating system**: Android - **Bluetooth version**: 5 - **Battery capacity**: 2000 mAh - **Colors**: Polar Black, Aurora Silver #### Details & Specifications The Anbernic RG Rotate is a May 2026 handheld with a square 3.5-inch 720x720 screen that rotates open on a hinge. It runs Android 12 on a Unisoc T618 chip, and is aimed at Game Boy, PICO-8 and 4:3 consoles such as NES and SNES. Reviewers like the screen, the design and the controls; Time Extension scores it 8/10. It plays Game Boy, Color, PlayStation and 4:3 systems well, and GBA is workable on the square panel. N64 and PSP are poor with no sticks, and GameCube and PS2 run but aren't fun. The lack of a headphone jack and a single rear speaker are the trade-offs. The price here is for the black model on the listing we link; the silver aluminum version is about $20 more. - Unisoc T618 octa-core chip, 3 GB RAM, 32 GB storage - 3.5-inch IPS screen, 720x720, 1:1, about 290 ppi - 2000 mAh battery, about 5 hours - Android 12 with the Play Store - Wi-Fi 5 and Bluetooth 5.0; one USB-C port, no 3.5 mm jack - No analog sticks; D-pad and face buttons, with L2/R2 in the box - About 167 g (black), 204 g (aluminum) - Colors: Polar Black (plastic with painted aluminum frame), Aurora Silver (all aluminum) - Released May 2026 ## Gaming mice Light gaming mice, mostly wireless and rechargeable. ### Attack Shark R1 - **Product Page**: https://chi-fi.top/mouses/attack-shark-r1 - **Category**: Gaming mice - **Brand**: Attack Shark - **Price**: from $16 USD - **Summary**: Light wireless gaming mouse - **AliExpress**: https://s.click.aliexpress.com/e/_c4rYAD5p #### Pros - Light at about 59 g, so it's easy to move around during long sessions - Three ways to connect: USB-C cable, 2.4 GHz dongle or Bluetooth - Long battery life: up to about 65 hours per charge, by the maker's figures - Ergonomic shape that suits palm and claw grips #### Cons - Older PixArt PAW3311 sensor: fine for everyday play, less precise than pricier mice for competitive shooters - Fairly large (123 × 64 mm), so it can feel big in small hands or with a fingertip grip - All-plastic shell, and the side buttons can wiggle slightly - Basic companion software #### Specifications - **Sensor**: PixArt PAW3311 - **Max resolution**: 18000 DPI - **Max polling rate**: 1000 Hz - **Connections**: wired, bluetooth, 2.4 GHz - **Battery life**: 65 h - **Weight**: 59 g #### Details & Specifications The Attack Shark R1 is a cheap, light wireless gaming mouse. At about 59 grams it weighs noticeably less than a typical office mouse, and its ergonomic shape is made for resting your palm or arching your fingers in a claw grip. It connects three ways: a USB-C cable, a 2.4 GHz USB dongle for low-lag wireless play, or Bluetooth for laptops and tablets. You switch modes with a button on the underside. The maker quotes up to about 65 hours of use per charge. Inside is a PixArt PAW3311 sensor, an older design that is accurate enough for everyday and casual gaming. If you play competitive shooters, a mouse with a newer sensor (such as the PAW3395) tracks more precisely for a similar price. The shell is plastic and the software is basic, which is what you would expect at this price. - PixArt PAW3311 optical sensor, up to 18,000 DPI - Polling rate up to 1000 Hz - Tri-mode connection: wired USB-C, 2.4 GHz wireless, Bluetooth - Weight about 59 g - Size about 123 × 64 × 41 mm, ergonomic shape - Up to about 65 hours of battery life (maker's figure) ### Attack Shark X11 - **Product Page**: https://chi-fi.top/mouses/attack-shark-x11-mouse-paw3311 - **Category**: Gaming mice - **Brand**: Attack Shark - **Price**: from $22 USD - **Summary**: Rechargeable wireless gaming mouse - **AliExpress**: https://s.click.aliexpress.com/e/_c35sIlP5 #### Pros - Magnetic RGB charging dock that also holds the receiver - Connects by USB-C cable, 2.4 GHz dongle or Bluetooth - Light for a budget mouse, about 63 g #### Cons - Same PAW3311 sensor as the cheaper Attack Shark R1; you're mostly paying for the dock - Some find the shape uncomfortable in long sessions - No power switch to save battery #### Specifications - **Sensor**: PixArt PAW3311 - **Connections**: wired, bluetooth, 2.4 GHz - **Weight**: 63 g #### Details & Specifications The Attack Shark X11 is a budget wireless gaming mouse that comes with a magnetic charging dock. The dock has RGB lighting and also holds the wireless receiver. The mouse connects by USB-C cable, 2.4 GHz dongle or Bluetooth, and weighs about 63 g. It uses the same PixArt PAW3311 sensor as the cheaper Attack Shark R1, which is fine for casual play, so you're mostly paying for the dock. Some find the shape uncomfortable in long sessions, and there's no power switch to save battery. - PixArt PAW3311 sensor - USB-C cable, 2.4 GHz dongle and Bluetooth - Magnetic RGB charging dock that holds the receiver - About 63 g ### Attack Shark R2 - **Product Page**: https://chi-fi.top/mouses/attack-shark-r2-gaming-wireless-mouse-paw3950-8k-magnesium-alloy - **Category**: Gaming mice - **Brand**: Attack Shark - **Price**: from $74 USD - **Summary**: Very light magnesium gaming mouse - **AliExpress**: https://s.click.aliexpress.com/e/_c3pk0RdD #### Pros - Ultralight: about 45 g, with a magnesium-alloy shell - PAW3950 sensor and 8,000 Hz receiver that worked flawlessly in one review - Optical switches rated for 100 million clicks (maker's figure) - Connects by USB-C cable, 2.4 GHz dongle or Bluetooth #### Cons - Very small (about 118 × 62 mm): suits a fingertip grip, not a palm grip - Sold with and without a charging dock, so check what the listing includes - Only one independent review found so far #### Specifications - **Sensor**: PixArt PAW3950 - **Max resolution**: 42000 DPI - **Max polling rate**: 8000 Hz - **Connections**: wired, bluetooth, 2.4 GHz - **Weight**: 45 g #### Details & Specifications The Attack Shark R2 is an ultralight wireless gaming mouse with a magnesium-alloy shell, at about 45 g. Its PixArt PAW3950 sensor and 8,000 Hz receiver worked flawlessly in one review, and it uses optical switches, which avoid the double-clicking that wears out older mice. It's very small (about 118 × 62 mm), so it suits a fingertip grip rather than a palm grip. It's sold with and without a charging dock, so check what the listing includes. So far there's only one independent review. - PixArt PAW3950 sensor, up to 42,000 DPI - Up to 8,000 Hz polling - USB-C cable, 2.4 GHz dongle and Bluetooth - Optical switches rated for 100 million clicks (maker's figure) - Magnesium-alloy shell with holes, about 45 g - About 118 × 62 × 39 mm ### ATTACK SHARK R11 Ultra - **Product Page**: https://chi-fi.top/mouses/attack-shark-r11-ultra-8k-carbon-fiber-wireless-gaming-mouse - **Category**: Gaming mice - **Brand**: Attack Shark - **Price**: from $68 USD - **Summary**: Very light carbon-fibre gaming mouse - **AliExpress**: https://s.click.aliexpress.com/e/_c39Xczlp #### Pros - Very light: about 49 g, with a forged carbon-fibre shell - Flagship PixArt PAW3950MAX sensor - Very fast reporting, up to 8,000 Hz #### Cons - The textured carbon shell grips well but feels rough to some hands - The highest polling rates need the cable - Little independent testing yet; most claims come from the maker #### Specifications - **Sensor**: PixArt PAW3950MAX - **Max resolution**: 42000 DPI - **Max polling rate**: 8000 Hz - **Connections**: wired, bluetooth, 2.4 GHz - **Weight**: 49 g #### Details & Specifications The Attack Shark R11 Ultra is a very light wireless gaming mouse with a forged carbon-fibre shell, at about 49 g. It uses PixArt's flagship PAW3950MAX sensor and can report up to 8,000 times a second. The textured carbon shell grips well, but some people find it rough to hold. The highest polling rates need the cable. Independent testing is still thin, so most of the claims come from the maker. - PixArt PAW3950MAX sensor, up to 42,000 DPI - Up to 8,000 Hz polling - Forged carbon-fibre shell, about 49 g - Optical switches rated for 70 million clicks (maker's figure) ### ATTACK SHARK R5 ULTRA - **Product Page**: https://chi-fi.top/mouses/attack-shark-r5-ultra - **Category**: Gaming mice - **Brand**: Attack Shark - **Price**: from $72 USD - **Summary**: Ultralight wireless gaming mouse - **AliExpress**: https://s.click.aliexpress.com/e/_c2ynxKYF #### Pros - About 39 g, with a carbon-fibre shell that stays rigid - Ambidextrous shape with six programmable buttons - PAW3950 sensor with up to 8,000 Hz polling - Works while charging; connects by USB-C, 2.4 GHz or Bluetooth #### Cons - Doesn't store settings profiles on the mouse - Slick coating can feel slippery - Small skate cutouts limit aftermarket mouse feet #### Specifications - **Sensor**: PixArt PAW3950MAX - **Max resolution**: 42000 DPI - **Max polling rate**: 8000 Hz - **Buttons**: 6 - **Connections**: wired, bluetooth, 2.4 GHz - **Weight**: 39 g #### Details & Specifications The Attack Shark R5 Ultra is one of the lightest mice here, at about 39 g, with a carbon-fibre shell that stays rigid. It has an ambidextrous shape with six programmable buttons, PixArt's PAW3950MAX sensor and up to 8,000 Hz polling, and it keeps working while charging. It doesn't store settings profiles on the mouse itself. The coating can feel slippery, and the small cutouts for the mouse feet limit which aftermarket feet fit. - PixArt PAW3950MAX sensor, up to 42,000 DPI - Up to 8,000 Hz polling - USB-C cable, 2.4 GHz dongle and Bluetooth - Carbon-fibre shell with holes, about 39 g - Ambidextrous shape, six programmable buttons ### AJAZZ AJ139 V2 MC/Pro - **Product Page**: https://chi-fi.top/mouses/ajazz-aj139-v2-mcpro - **Category**: Gaming mice - **Brand**: AJAZZ - **Price**: from $19 USD - **Summary**: Wireless gaming mouse with a charging dock - **AliExpress**: https://s.click.aliexpress.com/e/_c4kveCLh #### Pros - Light, at about 66 g - Magnetic charging dock, so there's no cable to plug in - Connects by USB-C cable, 2.4 GHz dongle or Bluetooth #### Cons - Older PixArt PAW3311 sensor: fine for everyday play, less precise than pricier mice - The name covers two models (V2 MC and Pro) with different sensors, so check which one the listing is - Few independent reviews; most ratings online come from shops #### Specifications - **Sensor**: PixArt PAW3311 - **Max resolution**: 12000 DPI - **Connections**: wired, bluetooth, 2.4 GHz - **Battery capacity**: 500 mAh - **Battery life**: 40 h - **Weight**: 66 g #### Details & Specifications The AJAZZ AJ139 V2 MC is a light, budget wireless gaming mouse that comes with a magnetic charging dock, so you never need to plug in a cable. It connects by USB-C cable, 2.4 GHz dongle or Bluetooth. Its PixArt PAW3311 sensor is an older design: fine for everyday play, less precise than pricier mice. The AJ139 name covers two models, the V2 MC and the Pro, with different sensors and weights, so check which one the listing is. There are few independent reviews; most ratings online come from shops. - PixArt PAW3311 sensor, up to 12,000 DPI - USB-C cable, 2.4 GHz dongle and Bluetooth - Magnetic charging dock included - 500 mAh battery, 40+ hours on 2.4 GHz (maker's figure) - About 66 g, 125 × 63 × 38 mm ### MCHOSE L7 Pro - **Product Page**: https://chi-fi.top/mouses/mchose-l7-pro - **Category**: Gaming mice - **Brand**: MCHOSE - **Price**: from $56 USD - **Summary**: Small, very light gaming mouse for claw and fingertip grips - **AliExpress**: https://s.click.aliexpress.com/e/_c40ltrd9 #### Pros - Very light at about 40 g, with a solid shell and no holes - RTINGS's pick for the best budget gaming mouse for enthusiasts, for its click and sensor latency - True 8,000 Hz polling over both the cable and the dongle, per TechPowerUp's tests - Optical switches, plus Bluetooth for laptops and tablets #### Cons - Small: suits claw and fingertip grips, and can feel cramped for a palm grip with large hands - Some shell flex and slightly soft clicks, per RTINGS - MCHOSE gives no battery life figure, and the 250 mAh battery is small - The listing also sells the L7 Ultra and Ultra+, so pick the L7 Pro variant #### Specifications - **Sensor**: PixArt PAW3395 - **Max resolution**: 26000 DPI - **Max tracking speed**: 650 IPS - **Max polling rate**: 8000 Hz - **Buttons**: 6 - **Connections**: wired, bluetooth, 2.4 GHz - **Battery capacity**: 250 mAh - **Weight**: 40 g - **Shape**: Symmetrical - **Colors**: White, Black, Blue #### Details & Specifications The MCHOSE L7 Pro is a small, very light wireless gaming mouse, at about 40 g with a solid shell. RTINGS names it the best budget gaming mouse for enthusiasts, and TechPowerUp measured very low click latency and true 8,000 Hz polling both wired and wireless. It uses PixArt's PAW3395 sensor and connects by USB-C cable, 2.4 GHz dongle or Bluetooth. Its symmetrical shape is small, with the hump towards the back: RTINGS recommends it for claw grip with small to medium hands, or fingertip grip with larger ones. The budget shows in a little shell flex, slightly soft clicks and ordinary mouse feet. MCHOSE doesn't quote a battery life, and the battery is a small 250 mAh. Newer units use Kailh optical switches in place of the Omron ones the reviewers tested. - PixArt PAW3395 sensor - Up to 26,000 DPI - Up to 650 IPS tracking speed - Up to 8,000 Hz polling, wired and wireless - USB-C cable, 2.4 GHz dongle and Bluetooth - Optical main switches (Kailh in current units, Omron in earlier ones) - Six buttons, counting the wheel click - Symmetrical shape, side buttons on the left - About 40 g - About 116 × 61 × 36 mm - 250 mAh battery - Settings saved on the mouse - Colors: white, black or blue - One-year warranty ### VXE Dragonfly R1 Pro - **Product Page**: https://chi-fi.top/mouses/vxe-dragonfly-r1-pro - **Category**: Gaming mice - **Brand**: VXE - **Price**: from $46 USD - **Summary**: Light, mid-size gaming mouse for most hands - **AliExpress**: https://s.click.aliexpress.com/e/_c4cHME35 #### Pros - Light at about 48 g, with excellent build quality, per RTINGS - Symmetrical mid-size shape that RTINGS found suits most hand sizes and grips - PAW3395 sensor with outstanding raw performance in RTINGS's tests - Up to about 75 hours per charge at 1,000 Hz (maker's figure) #### Cons - 1,000 Hz polling out of the box; 4,000 Hz needs VXE's separate 4K receiver - No Bluetooth, and mechanical switches rather than optical ones - The R1 name covers several models; the cheaper R1 SE uses a lesser "PAW3395 SE" sensor, so pick R1 Pro in the listing - One-year warranty #### Specifications - **Sensor**: PixArt PAW3395 - **Max resolution**: 26000 DPI - **Max tracking speed**: 650 IPS - **Max polling rate**: 1000 Hz - **Connections**: wired, 2.4 GHz - **Battery capacity**: 250 mAh - **Battery life**: 75 h - **Weight**: 48 g - **Shape**: Symmetrical - **Colors**: Black, White #### Details & Specifications The VXE Dragonfly R1 Pro (also sold as the ATK VXE R1 Pro) is a light wireless gaming mouse with a symmetrical, mid-size shape. RTINGS calls it a remarkable FPS mouse: about 48 g, excellent build quality, and click and sensor latency good enough for competitive play. Its shape has a low hump towards the back and flat sides, which RTINGS found works for most hand sizes and for palm, claw and fingertip grips. It reports 1,000 times a second out of the box; 4,000 Hz needs VXE's 4K receiver, sold separately. It connects by USB-C cable or 2.4 GHz dongle, with no Bluetooth. The R1 name covers a whole family with the same shell: the R1 SE uses a "PAW3395 SE" sensor that RTINGS believes is an older design, while the R1 Pro has the real PAW3395. Pick the R1 Pro variant in the listing. The photo shows the R1 Pro Max, which uses the same shell. - PixArt PAW3395 sensor - Up to 26,000 DPI - Up to 650 IPS tracking speed - 1,000 Hz polling; up to 4,000 Hz with the separate 4K receiver - USB-C cable and 2.4 GHz dongle - Nordic nRF52840 chip - Huano mechanical main switches - Symmetrical shape, side buttons on the left - "Ice-feel" coating - About 48 g - About 121 × 64 × 38 mm - 250 mAh battery - Up to about 75 hours at 1,000 Hz (maker's figure) - Colors: black or white - One-year warranty ### MCHOSE A7 V2 Ultra - **Product Page**: https://chi-fi.top/mouses/mchose-a7-v2-ultra - **Category**: Gaming mice - **Brand**: MCHOSE - **Price**: from $65 USD - **Summary**: Superlight-style gaming mouse with a big battery - **AliExpress**: https://s.click.aliexpress.com/e/_c3WgdPg3 #### Pros - Shape closely copied from Logitech's G Pro X Superlight, a mid-size shape for medium to large hands - Big 500 mAh battery for a 58 g mouse - PAW3950 sensor, true 8,000 Hz polling and very low click latency in TechPowerUp's tests - Connects by cable, 2.4 GHz dongle or Bluetooth; settings in an app or a web driver #### Cons - Wireless polling at 1,000 Hz is unsteady unless you turn on its "Extreme" mode, which uses more battery - No battery life figure from MCHOSE; TechPowerUp estimated about 50 hours in Extreme mode - Mechanical switches, which can register stray clicks at the lowest debounce settings - The listing also sells the cheaper Pro (PAW3395 sensor) and the Plus versions, so pick Ultra #### Specifications - **Sensor**: PixArt PAW3950 Ti - **Max resolution**: 42000 DPI - **Max polling rate**: 8000 Hz - **Buttons**: 6 - **Connections**: wired, bluetooth, 2.4 GHz - **Battery capacity**: 500 mAh - **Weight**: 58 g - **Shape**: Symmetrical #### Details & Specifications The MCHOSE A7 V2 Ultra is a wireless gaming mouse that copies Logitech's G Pro X Superlight closely, in shape and in looks. At about 58 g it weighs the same as the original, but it has a 500 mAh battery, much bigger than the Superlight 2's. TechPowerUp found build quality on par with Logitech's, very low click latency and true 8,000 Hz polling both wired and wireless with PixArt's PAW3950 sensor. The catch is in the settings: at 1,000 Hz and below, wireless polling is only steady in the "Extreme" sensor mode, which draws more power. MCHOSE doesn't quote a battery life; TechPowerUp's estimate in Extreme mode was about 50 hours. It uses mechanical Omron switches for a light, Superlight-like click. The listing also sells the A7 V2 Pro (the cheaper PAW3395 sensor) and Plus versions that work with a wireless charging dock, so check the variant. - PixArt PAW3950 Ti sensor - Up to 42,000 DPI - Up to 8,000 Hz polling, wired and wireless - USB-C cable, 2.4 GHz dongle and Bluetooth - Realtek RTL8762GKH chip - Omron mechanical main switches, rated for 100 million clicks - TTC Gold scroll wheel encoder - Six buttons, counting the wheel click - Symmetrical shape modelled on the Logitech G Pro X Superlight, side buttons on the left - About 58 g - About 126 × 63 × 40 mm - 500 mAh battery - MCHOSE Hub app or web driver - One-year warranty ## Headphone DACs Small dongles and desk boxes that feed wired headphones from a phone or computer, often called DACs. Handy for phones with no headphone jack. ### FiiO KA11 - **Product Page**: https://chi-fi.top/dac/fiio-ka11 - **Category**: Headphone DACs - **Brand**: FiiO - **Price**: from $25 USD - **Summary**: Headphone dongle for phones and laptops - **AliExpress**: https://s.click.aliexpress.com/e/_c370xxBH #### Pros - A lot of power for its size: up to 245 mW at 16 Ω (maker's figure), enough for most earphones and many headphones - Tiny metal body - A coloured light shows the audio format at a glance #### Cons - Gets warm in use - The settings app is Android-only - No microphone support, so headset mics won't work through it - Slightly warm sound rather than strictly neutral #### Specifications - **DAC chip**: Cirrus Logic CS43131 - **Outputs**: 3.5 mm - **Output power at 32 Ω**: 200 mW - **Platforms**: Android, iOS, PC, Mac #### Details & Specifications The FiiO KA11 is a tiny headphone dongle: it plugs into the USB-C port of a phone or laptop and gives wired earphones and headphones a proper headphone jack. For its size it's powerful, enough for most earphones and many headphones. A small coloured light shows the audio format that's playing. It gets warm in use. The settings app (for the light and sound filters) is Android-only. There's no microphone support, so a headset mic won't work through it, and the sound is slightly warm rather than strictly neutral. - Cirrus Logic CS43131 DAC chip - Up to 245 mW at 16 Ω, 200 mW at 32 Ω (maker's figures) - 3.5 mm headphone output - USB-C; a Lightning version is also sold - Works with Android, iOS, Windows and Mac ### HiBy FC1 - **Product Page**: https://chi-fi.top/dac/hiby-fc1 - **Category**: Headphone DACs - **Brand**: HiBy - **Price**: from $20 USD - **Summary**: Tiny headphone dongle for phones and laptops - **AliExpress**: https://s.click.aliexpress.com/e/_c4rY0luR #### Pros - Small, light dongle for USB-C phones and laptops - Volume buttons on the dongle, with 30 steps - Enough power for earphones and easy-to-drive headphones (70 mW at 32 Ω, maker's figure) #### Cons - 3.5 mm jack only, no 4.4 mm balanced output - In-line remote buttons on headphone cables don't work - Not enough power for hard-to-drive headphones #### Specifications - **DAC chip**: ESS ES9270 - **Outputs**: 3.5 mm - **Output power at 32 Ω**: 70 mW - **Platforms**: Android, iOS, PC, Mac #### Details & Specifications The HiBy FC1 is a small, light headphone dongle for phones and laptops with USB-C. It has its own volume buttons with 30 steps and a light that shows the audio format, and it doesn't need charging. It has enough power for earphones and easy-to-drive headphones, but not for demanding full-size headphones. There's only a 3.5 mm jack, no 4.4 mm balanced output, and the play/pause and volume buttons on headphone cables don't work through it. - ESS ES9270 DAC chip - 70 mW per channel at 32 Ω (maker's figure) - 3.5 mm headphone output - 30-step volume buttons on the dongle - USB-C; works with Android, iOS, Windows, macOS and Linux ### TOPPING E30II LITE - **Product Page**: https://chi-fi.top/dac/topping-e30ii-lite - **Category**: Headphone DACs - **Brand**: TOPPING - **Price**: from $99 USD - **Summary**: Desktop DAC for a computer speaker setup - **AliExpress**: https://s.click.aliexpress.com/e/_c3VCDH0r #### Pros - Very clean, quiet output (121 dB dynamic range, maker's figure) - USB, optical and coaxial inputs, so it works with a PC, TV or console - Built-in volume control, so it can feed powered speakers directly - Runs from a USB charger or power bank #### Cons - No headphone jack: you need powered speakers or a separate headphone amp - One RCA output only, no balanced XLR - Optical and coaxial inputs top out at 192 kHz #### Specifications - **DAC chip**: AKM AK4493S #### Details & Specifications The Topping E30 II Lite is a small desktop DAC. It takes digital audio from a computer, TV, game console or CD player and turns it into a very clean, quiet analog signal. It has USB, optical and coaxial inputs, and its built-in volume control means it can feed powered speakers directly. It has no headphone jack. To use headphones you need a separate headphone amp (Topping suggests its L30 II); otherwise it's for powered speakers or an amplifier. The only output is RCA, with no balanced XLR. It runs from a USB charger or power bank, and it switches itself on and off with the signal. - AKM AK4493S DAC chip - 121 dB dynamic range (maker's figure) - Inputs: USB, optical, coaxial (optical and coaxial up to 24-bit/192 kHz) - Output: RCA line out only, no headphone jack - Built-in volume control, or fixed output for use with an amp - Powered by 5 V over USB ### TempoTec Sonata BHD Pro - **Product Page**: https://chi-fi.top/dac/tempotec-sonata-bhd-pro - **Category**: Headphone DACs - **Brand**: TempoTec - **Price**: from $48 USD - **Summary**: Headphone dongle with two headphone jacks - **AliExpress**: https://s.click.aliexpress.com/e/_c3wrTPuR #### Pros - Two jacks: standard 3.5 mm and 4.4 mm balanced - Strong for a dongle: about 280 mW from the 4.4 mm jack (maker's figure) - CNC-machined aluminium body - 60 volume steps for fine control #### Cons - Sound pairs better with some earphones than others - Struggles with demanding full-size headphones; treble can turn harsh - No gain switch #### Specifications - **DAC chip**: Cirrus Logic CS43131 - **Outputs**: 3.5 mm, 4.4 mm - **Output power at 32 Ω**: 280 mW - **Weight**: 18 g #### Details & Specifications The TempoTec Sonata BHD Pro is a headphone dongle with two jacks: a standard 3.5 mm one and a 4.4 mm balanced one. Through the 4.4 mm jack it's strong for a dongle, with enough power for most earphones and many headphones. The body is machined aluminium, and 60 volume steps allow fine control. It sounds better with some earphones than others, and it struggles with demanding full-size headphones, where the treble can turn harsh. There's no gain switch. - Two Cirrus Logic CS43131 DAC chips - About 280 mW at 32 Ω from the 4.4 mm jack (maker's figure) - 3.5 mm and 4.4 mm balanced outputs - 60-step volume control - About 55 × 21 × 11 mm, 18 g ### HiBy FC3 - **Product Page**: https://chi-fi.top/dac/hiby-fc3 - **Category**: Headphone DACs - **Brand**: HiBy - **Price**: from $30 USD - **Summary**: Headphone dongle for phones and laptops - **AliExpress**: https://s.click.aliexpress.com/e/_c4NR16o3 #### Pros - Compact aluminium body with volume and playback buttons - Clean, clear sound according to reviewers - Light drain on your phone's battery #### Cons - Same rated power as the cheaper HiBy FC1 (70 mW at 32 Ω) - Some users report the connection dropping - Faint hiss with very sensitive earphones - 3.5 mm only, and not for power-hungry headphones #### Specifications - **DAC chip**: ESS ES9281PRO - **Outputs**: 3.5 mm - **Output power at 32 Ω**: 70 mW - **Weight**: 9 g #### Details & Specifications The HiBy FC3 is a compact aluminium headphone dongle for phones and laptops with USB-C. Reviewers describe its sound as clean and clear, and it draws little power from your phone. It has volume and playback buttons on the dongle and a light that shows the audio format. Its rated power is the same as the cheaper HiBy FC1, so it's best with earphones and easy-to-drive headphones. Some users report the connection dropping, and very sensitive earphones can pick up a faint hiss. - ESS ES9281PRO DAC chip - 70 mW per channel at 32 Ω (maker's figure) - 3.5 mm headphone output with headset mic support - 30-step volume buttons on the dongle - About 45 × 13 × 9 mm, 9 g ### Kiwi Ears Allegro Mini - **Product Page**: https://chi-fi.top/dac/kiwi-ears-allegro-mini - **Category**: Headphone DACs - **Brand**: Kiwi Ears - **Price**: from $24 USD - **Summary**: Cheap headphone dongle with a 4.4 mm balanced jack - **AliExpress**: https://s.click.aliexpress.com/e/_c3KGm7Cx #### Pros - The cheapest way to get both a 3.5 mm and a 4.4 mm balanced jack - Clean, clear sound with earphones, according to reviewers - Small metal body that plugs straight into a phone - Low power draw from the phone #### Cons - Low power: 30 mW at 32 Ω (maker's figure), only a little more than Apple's basic USB-C adapter in one reviewer's test - The 4.4 mm jack gives no extra power over the 3.5 mm one, by the same reviewer's measurements - Not for hard-to-drive headphones - Can be too loud for very sensitive earphones, leaving little room on the volume scale #### Specifications - **Outputs**: 3.5 mm, 4.4 mm - **Max sample rate**: 384 kHz - **Max bit depth**: 32 bit - **DSD support**: Yes - **Output power at 32 Ω**: 30 mW - **Signal-to-noise ratio**: 114 dB #### Details & Specifications The Kiwi Ears Allegro Mini is a small headphone dongle from Linsoul's Kiwi Ears brand. It plugs into the USB-C port of a phone or laptop and has two jacks: a standard 3.5 mm one and a 4.4 mm balanced one, which is rare at this price. Reviewers describe its sound as clean and clear, and it draws little power from the phone. It's built for earphones, not big headphones. Its rated power is low, and in one reviewer's test it was only slightly louder than Apple's basic USB-C adapter, with no extra power from the 4.4 mm jack. With very sensitive earphones it can go the other way: loud at low volume steps, with little room to fine-tune. - DAC chip not named by the maker - 30 mW per channel at 32 Ω (maker's figure) - 3.5 mm and 4.4 mm balanced outputs - Up to 32-bit/384 kHz PCM and DSD128 - Signal-to-noise ratio of at least 114 dB (maker's figure) - Aluminium body - USB-C ### TRN Black Pearl - **Product Page**: https://chi-fi.top/dac/trn-black-pearl - **Category**: Headphone DACs - **Brand**: TRN - **Price**: from $36 USD - **Summary**: Headphone dongle with two jacks and an EQ app - **AliExpress**: https://s.click.aliexpress.com/e/_c40R46Sj #### Pros - Strong for a dongle: up to 320 mW at 32 Ω from the 4.4 mm jack (maker's figure) - Measured very clean and quiet, per Audio Science Review's results as summarised by Frieve - 10-band EQ through TRN's Walkplay app - Buttons on the dongle, and headset mics work through it #### Cons - The EQ software needs an account, and some buyers report problems with it - Early units had distortion with a power-saving feature until a firmware update (August 2025) - One-year warranty, main unit only #### Specifications - **DAC chip**: Cirrus Logic CS43131 - **Outputs**: 3.5 mm, 4.4 mm - **Max sample rate**: 384 kHz - **Max bit depth**: 32 bit - **DSD support**: Yes - **Output power at 32 Ω**: 320 mW #### Details & Specifications The TRN Black Pearl is a headphone dongle for phones and laptops with USB-C, in a black metal body with a glass top. It has a 3.5 mm jack and a 4.4 mm balanced one, and through the 4.4 mm jack it's strong for its price. Measurements published by Audio Science Review (summarised on Frieve's review database) put it among the cleanest, quietest dongles around, and Frieve found nothing cheaper that measures as well with the same features. The EQ runs through TRN's Walkplay software, which needs an account; some buyers report trouble with it. Early units had distortion tied to a power-saving feature (DRE), which a firmware update fixed in August 2025. Buttons on the dongle control volume and playback, a coloured light shows the audio format, and a headset mic works through it. - Two Cirrus Logic CS43131 DAC chips - 320 mW at 32 Ω from the 4.4 mm jack, 125 mW from the 3.5 mm jack (maker's figures) - 3.5 mm and 4.4 mm balanced outputs - Up to 32-bit/384 kHz PCM and DSD256 - 10-band EQ through the Walkplay app - Buttons on the dongle; headset mic support - Light shows the format: blue standby, green PCM, red DSD - Metal body with a tempered glass panel - USB-C ### FiiO JA11 - **Product Page**: https://chi-fi.top/dac/fiio-ja11 - **Category**: Headphone DACs - **Brand**: FiiO - **Price**: from $15 USD - **Summary**: The cheapest headphone dongle here, with EQ and mic support - **AliExpress**: https://s.click.aliexpress.com/e/_c3LDZK6x #### Pros - The cheapest dongle in the catalog, from FiiO's own store - Headset mics and in-line remote buttons work through it, unlike the KA11 and FC1 - 5-band parametric EQ in the FiiO Control app - Tiny metal body and a braided cable, about 5 g - Neutral to slightly warm sound with no hiss, in one reviewer's listening #### Cons - Low power: 30 mW at 32 Ω (maker's figure), made for earphones, not hard-to-drive headphones - No volume buttons on the dongle - The EQ and settings app is Android-only - One reviewer's early unit needed a firmware update, installed from a Windows PC, to fix the left/right balance #### Specifications - **Release year**: 2024 - **Outputs**: 3.5 mm - **Max sample rate**: 384 kHz - **Max bit depth**: 32 bit - **DSD support**: Yes - **Output power at 32 Ω**: 30 mW - **Signal-to-noise ratio**: 115 dB - **Platforms**: Android, iOS, PC, Mac - **Weight**: 5 g - **Colors**: Black, Silver #### Details & Specifications The FiiO JA11 is a tiny headphone dongle from FiiO's budget Jade Audio line (the dongle itself says "Jade Audio", not FiiO). It plugs into the USB-C port of a phone or laptop and gives wired earphones a 3.5 mm jack. Unlike most dongles at this price, it passes through a headset mic and the buttons on an in-line remote, and FiiO's app adds a 5-band parametric EQ. One reviewer describes its sound as neutral to slightly warm, with no hiss. It's built for earphones. Its rated power is low, so hard-to-drive headphones are better served by the [FiiO KA11](https://chi-fi.top/dac/fiio-ka11). There are no buttons on the dongle, the app is Android-only, and one reviewer's early unit needed a firmware update, installed from a Windows PC, to fix its left/right balance. - DAC chip not named by the maker - 30 mW per channel at 32 Ω (maker's figure) - 3.5 mm headphone output - Up to 32-bit/384 kHz PCM and DSD128 - Signal-to-noise ratio of at least 115 dB (maker's figure) - Output impedance under 0.5 Ω (maker's figure) - Headset mic and in-line remote supported - 5-band parametric EQ in the FiiO Control app (Android) - Aluminium-magnesium alloy body, braided cable - About 5 g - Black or silver - USB-C; works with Android, iOS, Windows and macOS - Released in 2024 ### Fosi Audio K5 Pro - **Product Page**: https://chi-fi.top/dac/fosi-audio-k5-pro - **Category**: Headphone DACs - **Brand**: Fosi Audio - **Price**: from $54 USD - **Summary**: Desk box for a gaming headset on a PC or PS5 - **AliExpress**: https://s.click.aliexpress.com/e/_c3UEviHh #### Pros - Headphone jack and mic jack on the front, so a wired gaming headset plugs straight in - USB, optical and coaxial inputs, plus RCA out for powered speakers - Bass and treble knobs as well as volume - Plenty of rated power: 500 mW at 32 Ω (maker's figure) #### Cons - No gain switch, and reviewers hear hiss with sensitive earphones - One reviewer's first unit failed and the replacement's optical input didn't work - The same reviewer found less volume headroom than the power rating suggests - 3.5 mm headphone jack only, no 6.35 mm or balanced output #### Specifications - **Outputs**: 3.5 mm - **Max sample rate**: 192 kHz - **Max bit depth**: 24 bit - **Output power at 32 Ω**: 500 mW - **Platforms**: PC, Mac, PlayStation, Switch - **Weight**: 251 g #### Details & Specifications The Fosi Audio K5 Pro is a small desktop DAC and headphone amp aimed at gaming. A wired headset plugs into the front, with separate headphone and mic jacks, and it connects to a PC, Mac, PS5 or Switch over USB, or takes optical and coaxial input from a TV or console. Knobs on the front set the volume, bass and treble, and the RCA outputs on the back can feed powered speakers. It runs from a 5 V USB-C supply. There's no gain switch, and reviewers hear hiss with sensitive earphones at higher volume; it suits full-size headsets better. One reviewer's first unit failed to work on a PS4 and didn't detect their mic, and the replacement's optical input didn't work, while the same reviewer found it quieter than its power rating suggests. Fosi doesn't list Xbox among supported devices. - DAC chip not named by the maker; Texas Instruments NE5532 op-amp - 500 mW at 32 Ω, 80 mW at 300 Ω (maker's figures); for headphones from 16 to 300 Ω - Inputs: USB-C (up to 24-bit/96 kHz), optical and coaxial (up to 24-bit/192 kHz) - Outputs: 3.5 mm headphone jack, RCA line out - 3.5 mm mic input on the front - Volume, bass and treble knobs - Works with PC, Mac, PS5 and Switch (maker's list) - Powered by 5 V over USB-C - 112 × 95 × 30 mm, 251 g ## Keyboards Mechanical keyboards for gaming and typing. Some have magnetic switches that let you set how far a key goes down before it counts, for faster presses in games. ### MCHOSE Ace 60 Pro - **Product Page**: https://chi-fi.top/keyboards/mchose-ace-60-pro - **Category**: Keyboards - **Brand**: MCHOSE - **Price**: from $60 USD - **Summary**: Cheap wired gaming keyboard with magnetic, adjustable keys - **AliExpress**: https://s.click.aliexpress.com/e/_c3wfLjZH #### Pros - RTINGS measured outstanding gaming performance, on par with flagship magnetic keyboards from Wooting and Razer - Rapid Trigger, adjustable actuation, SOCD and DKS for fast, repeated presses in shooters - Solid for the price, per RTINGS: aluminium plate, pre-lubed switches and stabilizers - Shine-through keycaps, so the RGB backlight lights up the letters #### Cons - Wired only, and the small 60% layout has no arrow keys, function row or numpad - The settings app is web-based only, with no offline version - One-year warranty - On AliExpress it comes from a reseller with one switch option (Ice Blue), and the listing also sells the bigger ACE68: pick the "60pro" variant #### Specifications - **Layout**: 60% - **Magnetic (Hall effect) switches**: Yes - **Rapid Trigger**: Yes - **Hot-swappable switches**: Yes - **Case material**: Plastic with aluminium plate - **Keycaps**: PBT - **Connections**: wired - **Max polling rate**: 8000 Hz - **Colors**: Black, White #### Details & Specifications The MCHOSE Ace 60 Pro is a small wired gaming keyboard with magnetic switches. Instead of clicking at a fixed point, each key senses how far it's pressed, so you choose where a press counts and use Rapid Trigger, which resets a key the moment you start to lift it. That helps with quick, repeated movement in shooters. RTINGS measured outstanding raw performance that matches much pricier boards from Wooting and Razer, and recommends it as a budget pick for competitive players. It's a 60% board, so arrow keys, the function row and the numpad live on a second layer behind the Fn key. The case is plastic but feels solid, with an aluminium plate inside. Settings are changed in MCHOSE's web app, which has no offline version. RTINGS tested a unit with KTEK switches; the AliExpress listing sells it with Ice Blue magnetic switches. MCHOSE also sells a plain Ace 60 with a slower chip, so make sure the listing says Pro. - 60% layout, ANSI - Magnetic (Hall effect) switches, hot-swappable - Adjustable actuation from 0.1 to 3.4 mm - Rapid Trigger with 0.01 mm precision - Up to 8,000 Hz polling - Wired only - Plastic case with an aluminium plate - PBT keycaps with shine-through letters - RGB backlight - Web-based settings app (actuation, Rapid Trigger, SOCD, DKS, macros, lighting) - Colors: black or white - One-year warranty ### AULA F75 - **Product Page**: https://chi-fi.top/keyboards/aula-f75 - **Category**: Keyboards - **Brand**: AULA - **Price**: from $68 USD - **Summary**: Wireless 75% keyboard with a soft, cushioned typing feel - **AliExpress**: https://s.click.aliexpress.com/e/_c3d81TGF #### Pros - Soft, cushioned typing: RTINGS praises its gasket mount and very smooth pre-lubed switches and stabilizers - Connects by USB-C cable, 2.4 GHz dongle or Bluetooth, with a big 4,000 mAh battery - Keeps the arrow keys and function row, plus a knob for volume or lighting - Hot-swappable: the switches pull out and can be replaced without soldering #### Cons - All-plastic case with noticeable flex; RTINGS rates the build only decent - The key letters don't light up, so they're hard to read in the dark - Settings software is Windows-only and clunky, per RTINGS, and there's no right Cmd key for a Mac - Listings mix colours, switches and versions (F75, Pro, Max, HE) with conflicting specs: pick the plain tri-mode F75 in the colour you want #### Specifications - **Release year**: 2024 - **Layout**: 75% - **Hot-swappable switches**: Yes - **Mount**: Gasket - **Case material**: Plastic (ABS) - **Keycaps**: PBT - **Connections**: wired, bluetooth, 2.4 GHz - **Battery capacity**: 4000 mAh - **Weight**: 1023 g #### Details & Specifications The AULA F75 is a wireless mechanical keyboard in the compact 75% size: no numpad, but it keeps the arrow keys and the function row. It's known for how it feels and sounds. A gasket mount and five layers of foam make typing soft and muffled, and the switches come pre-lubed. RTINGS lists it among the best budget mechanical keyboards, and Parkablogs calls it superb to type on for the money. The savings are in the case: it's plastic, flexes when pressed, and RTINGS calls the build only decent. The key letters aren't see-through, so the backlight doesn't light them. RTINGS also finds the Windows-only software clunky, and Parkablogs points out that it has no right Cmd key, which makes it awkward on a Mac. RTINGS tested the bigger F99, which has the same insides, and measured impressive latency, so it works for gaming too. - 75% layout, 80 keys - Gasket mount, plastic (ABS) case - Five layers of sound damping - Hot-swappable, pre-lubed switches; the switch depends on the colour (LEOBOG Reaper linear on many) - PBT keycaps, not shine-through - USB-C cable, 2.4 GHz dongle and Bluetooth - 4,000 mAh battery - Knob for volume (office mode) or lighting (game mode) - Per-key RGB backlight - About 1,023 g - About 323 × 143 × 43 mm - Settings software for Windows only - Colors: many, such as Sea Salt Blue, Glacier Blue, Thunder Black and Cedar Green - Released in 2024 ### MonsGeek FUN60 Ultra - **Product Page**: https://chi-fi.top/keyboards/monsgeek-fun60-ultra - **Category**: Keyboards - **Brand**: MonsGeek - **Price**: from $74 USD - **Summary**: Aluminium 60% gaming keyboard with magnetic keys, wired or wireless - **AliExpress**: https://s.click.aliexpress.com/e/_c3QWtScf #### Pros - RTINGS's pick for the best budget wireless magnetic gaming keyboard, with performance close to Wooting's flagships - Solid aluminium case, which is rare at this price - 8,000 Hz polling over both the cable and the 2.4 GHz dongle - Rapid Trigger, adjustable actuation, SOCD and DKS, set in a web or desktop app - The TMR version also takes ordinary mechanical switches #### Cons - The "from" price is a wired version: wireless starts at $100 on this listing, and the TMR version RTINGS tested costs $140 - Short battery life at 8,000 Hz: Notebookcheck got about 3 hours over the dongle with the lights on, and PCGamesN also calls it poor - The wireless mode switch hides under the Caps Lock keycap - 60% layout, with no arrow keys, function row or numpad; RTINGS also finds the mount a bit stiff #### Specifications - **Layout**: 60% - **Switches**: Akko Glare magnetic - **Magnetic (Hall effect) switches**: Yes - **Rapid Trigger**: Yes - **Hot-swappable switches**: Yes - **Mount**: Tray - **Case material**: Aluminium - **Keycaps**: PBT - **Connections**: wired, bluetooth, 2.4 GHz - **Max polling rate**: 8000 Hz - **Battery capacity**: 4000 mAh - **Colors**: Black, White #### Details & Specifications The MonsGeek FUN60 Ultra is a small gaming keyboard with magnetic switches in an aluminium case. Each key senses how far it's pressed, so you set where a press counts and can use Rapid Trigger, which resets a key as soon as you start to lift it. RTINGS names it the best budget wireless magnetic gaming keyboard and measured performance that nearly matches Wooting's much pricier boards. PCGamesN and Notebookcheck also rate it highly. MonsGeek is a brand of Akko, which runs the AliExpress store. It comes wired-only or tri-mode (cable, 2.4 GHz dongle and Bluetooth), and with Hall effect or TMR sensors. The TMR version, which RTINGS tested, also takes standard mechanical switches. Wireless costs more, and the battery runs down fast because the dongle always polls at 8,000 Hz: Notebookcheck got about 3 hours with the lights on, and PCGamesN up to about 5 with them off. Bluetooth lasts longer. The switch between wireless modes sits under the Caps Lock keycap, so you need the keycap puller to reach it. - 60% layout, ANSI - Aluminium case and plate, tray mount - Akko Glare magnetic switches, hot-swappable - Hall effect or TMR sensors, depending on the version; TMR also takes 5-pin mechanical switches - Adjustable actuation from 0.1 to 3.4 mm - Rapid Trigger with 0.01 mm precision - Up to 8,000 Hz polling, wired and over 2.4 GHz - Wired-only, or tri-mode with USB-C cable, 2.4 GHz dongle and Bluetooth (up to three devices) - 4,000 mAh battery (tri-mode versions) - PBT keycaps with shine-through letters - ARGB backlight - Web-based and desktop settings app - Colors: black or white, plus printed and gradient keycap sets ### YUNZII YZ98 - **Product Page**: https://chi-fi.top/keyboards/yunzii-yz98 - **Category**: Keyboards - **Brand**: YUNZII - **Price**: from $56 USD - **Summary**: Compact 98% mechanical keyboard with a number pad, wireless and a soft gasket feel - **AliExpress**: https://www.aliexpress.com/item/1005006445327097.html #### Pros - 98% layout with 99 keys keeps a full number pad, in a smaller frame than a full-size board - Prime Audio Reviews scored it 4.5 out of 5, praising the PBT keycaps, the smooth pre-lubed switches and the thocky, quiet sound - Gasket mount with five layers of sound filling (PORON, IXPE, PET film and silicone) - Wired, 2.4 GHz and Bluetooth 5.0, so it moves between a desktop and a laptop - Hot-swappable switches with full N-key rollover: the Milk switches pull out and any MX-style switch goes in - RGB on the front and the sides, and two acrylic badges in the box #### Cons - The case is plastic and flexes a little, which is Prime Audio Reviews' one complaint - The keycaps are opaque, so the backlight lights the desk rather than the letters - The settings software is Windows-only - Battery life drops sharply with the lights on: Prime Audio Reviews got about a day, against the claimed 30 days with the RGB off - The listing sells the black board; YUNZII also makes a white one and a Cocoa Cream V2 switch, so check which variant you get #### Specifications - **Release year**: 2024 - **Layout**: 98% - **Switches**: YUNZII Milk linear - **Hot-swappable switches**: Yes - **Mount**: Gasket - **Case material**: Plastic (ABS) - **Keycaps**: PBT - **Connections**: wired, bluetooth, 2.4 GHz - **Max polling rate**: 1000 Hz - **Weight**: 970 g - **Colors**: Black, White #### Details & Specifications The YUNZII YZ98 is a mechanical keyboard in the 98% size: 99 keys that keep a number pad, but in a frame smaller than a full-size board. It has the vintage look of a beige-and-black board with light strips down the sides, and it is one of the few cheap keyboards that gives you a number pad without a full-size footprint. It runs over USB-C cable, a 2.4 GHz dongle or Bluetooth 5.0, mounts on gaskets, and the switches pull out if you want to change them. Prime Audio Reviews rated it 4.5 out of 5 and called the switches smooth and the sound thocky and quiet, which is a lot of keyboard for the money. The trade-offs are honest ones: the case is plastic and flexes a little, the keycaps are opaque so the backlight doesn't reach the letters, and the software is Windows-only. Battery life is the big one, since the maker claims up to 30 days with the lights off and Prime Audio Reviews got closer to a day with them on. It launched at $89 and still costs $78 or more on Amazon, so the AliExpress price is the interesting one. YUNZII's own sheet and Amazon's spec table also disagree on the size and weight: 390 × 147 × 39 mm and 970 g against 38.5 × 14.5 × 2.85 cm and 1.06 kg. - 98% layout, 99 keys - Gasket mount, plastic (ABS) case - Five layers of sound filling (PORON, IXPE, PET film and silicone) - Hot-swappable switches (3- or 5-pin MX), N-key rollover - YUNZII Milk linear switches, pre-lubed, 45 ± 10 gf, 4.0 mm travel; Cocoa Cream V2 linear switches (5-pin) also sold - PBT keycaps, double-shot, Cherry profile, not shine-through - USB-C cable, 2.4 GHz dongle and Bluetooth 5.0 - Up to 1,000 Hz polling over 2.4 GHz - 5,000 mAh battery (YUNZII's spec sheet says 5,000 mAh, the text on the same page says 4,600 mAh) - RGB backlight and side lights, south-facing - Windows-only settings software - About 390 × 147 × 39 mm - About 970 g - Colors: black or white - Released in 2024 ## Wireless earbuds Bluetooth earbuds that sit in your ear without a cable between them, often called TWS (true wireless stereo). They recharge in their pocket case and pair with phones, tablets and computers. ### Moondrop Space Travel 2 Ultra - **Product Page**: https://chi-fi.top/tws/moondrop-space-travel-2-ultra - **Category**: Wireless earbuds - **Brand**: Moondrop - **Price**: from $40 USD - **Summary**: Planar magnetic true wireless earbuds with LDAC and AI noise cancellation - **AliExpress**: https://s.click.aliexpress.com/e/_c3R2qzIP #### Pros - Custom 13 mm annular planar magnetic driver delivers low distortion and rapid transient response - Supports LDAC high-resolution codec for up to 24-bit/96kHz wireless streaming on Android - Bluetooth 6.0 connectivity with seamless dual-device multipoint pairing and 55 ms low-latency gaming mode - AI-assisted active noise cancellation and transparency modes isolate ambient clutter effectively - Parametric EQ, VDSF target curves, and Yuki Beta AI sound tuning via Moondrop Link 2.0 app - Shallow-fit ergonomic stem shells offer all-day comfort without ear canal pressure #### Cons - Lidless mecha charging case leaves earbuds exposed to pocket lint and dust - LDAC streaming and continuous ANC reduce single-charge battery life noticeably - No wireless Qi charging support on the cradle #### Specifications - **Release year**: 2025 - **Bluetooth version**: 6 - **Codecs**: LDAC, AAC, SBC - **Active noise cancellation**: Yes - **Multipoint pairing**: Yes - **Battery life, earbuds**: 7 h - **Battery life, with case**: 24 h - **Gaming latency**: 55 ms - **Driver types**: planar #### Details & Specifications The Moondrop Space Travel 2 Ultra is a budget true wireless stereo (TWS) earphone that brings planar magnetic acoustic technology to accessible wireless audio. Succeeding the widely popular original Space Travel, the Ultra model replaces traditional dynamic drivers with an in-house engineered 13 mm annular planar magnetic transducer (Square Planar Driver). By distributing electromagnetic drive evenly across an ultra-thin planar diaphragm, the Space Travel 2 Ultra achieves rapid acoustic transient response, near-zero split vibration, and remarkable instrument layering rarely heard in entry-level wireless earbuds. Equipped with a modern Bluetooth 6.0 chipset, the Space Travel 2 Ultra supports Sony's high-resolution LDAC codec for 24-bit/96kHz wireless streaming, alongside standard AAC and SBC protocols. Gamers benefit from a dedicated 55 ms ultra-low latency game mode, while everyday multi-taskers enjoy seamless multipoint pairing across two devices simultaneously. Active noise cancellation is powered by second-generation AI algorithms capable of isolating low-frequency rumble and street noise, complemented by an ambient transparency mode. Through the Moondrop Link 2.0 companion app, listeners can select VDSF target curves, adjust a full parametric equalizer, or tweak sonic characteristics using the experimental Yuki Beta AI tuning assistant. The earbuds retain Moondrop's signature cyberpunk mecha aesthetic, featuring translucent smoky stem shells and a lidless magnetic charging cradle. The shallow-insertion nozzle geometry ensures long-listening comfort even in smaller ear canals. Battery life delivers up to 7 hours of continuous playback per charge (under AAC), extending to approximately 24 hours total with the USB-C charging cradle. - 13 mm annular single-magnetic planar driver (Square Planar Driver technology) - Bluetooth 6.0 wireless transmission (10-meter open range) - Audio codec support: LDAC, AAC, SBC - AI-assisted active noise cancellation (ANC) and vocal transparency mode - Dedicated 55 ms ultra-low latency game mode - Dual-device multipoint connectivity with automatic seamless switching - Moondrop Link 2.0 companion app with parametric EQ, VDSF target curves, and Yuki Beta AI DSP - Battery life: ~7 hours per charge (earbuds, AAC), ~24 hours total with case; USB-C charging - Shallow-fit ergonomic stem design with interchangeable silicone ear tips (S/M/L) - Translucent mecha charging cradle with magnetic dock - Released early 2025 ### KZ Xtra Pro - **Product Page**: https://chi-fi.top/tws/kz-xtra-pro - **Category**: Wireless earbuds - **Brand**: KZ - **Price**: from $35 USD - **Summary**: Qualcomm QCC5181 wireless earbuds with LDAC, aptX Adaptive, and 55dB ANC - **AliExpress**: https://s.click.aliexpress.com/e/_c3kZGHg3 #### Pros - Flagship Qualcomm QCC5181 chipset brings Bluetooth 5.4 with low latency and stable transmission - Broad high-resolution codec support including LDAC, aptX Adaptive, aptX, AAC, and SBC - Deep hybrid active noise cancellation (up to 55 dB) with 6-microphone dual-feed beamforming matrix - 10 mm patented internal magnetic dynamic driver delivers punchy bass and detailed layering - Exceptional battery life: ~8 hours on earbuds alone and ~40 hours total with charging case - Ultra-low 55 ms latency gaming mode and seamless dual-device multipoint pairing #### Cons - Charging case has a plain plastic build that feels utilitarian - Companion KZ app interface can feel unpolished for first-time EQ tuning - Slightly bulky ergonomic nozzle may feel snug in smaller ear canals #### Specifications - **Release year**: 2025 - **Bluetooth version**: 5.4 - **Codecs**: LDAC, aptX Adaptive, aptX, AAC, SBC - **Active noise cancellation**: Yes - **Multipoint pairing**: Yes - **Battery life, earbuds**: 8 h - **Battery life, with case**: 40 h - **Gaming latency**: 55 ms - **Driver types**: dynamic #### Details & Specifications The KZ Xtra Pro is an ambitious true wireless stereo (TWS) earphone from Knowledge Zenith engineered to democratize flagship-tier wireless components at an accessible price point. Built on Qualcomm's flagship QCC5181 audio platform, the Xtra Pro combines Bluetooth 5.4 protocol stability with dual-core DSP processing, overcoming the compression and latency constraints common to budget wireless earphones. It supports nearly every major high-resolution wireless codec—including Sony LDAC, Qualcomm aptX Adaptive, and standard aptX—allowing Android and portable DAP users to enjoy high-bitrate, near-lossless audio transmission across diverse streaming sources. Acoustically, the Xtra Pro employs a 10 mm patented high-sensitivity internal magnetic dynamic driver unit enhanced by real-time sound field reconstruction and phase calibration algorithms. This setup produces punchy, physical low-end rumble, rich mids, and airy highs without the artificial metallic harshness of poorly implemented DSP. For environmental noise, the Xtra Pro features an AI-powered 6-microphone matrix operating in a dual-feed beamforming configuration to deliver up to 55 dB of adaptive hybrid noise cancellation, accompanied by a natural ambient transparency mode and a 55 ms ultra-low latency gaming mode. Comfort and stamina are primary highlights: the earbuds feature an ergonomic cochlear contour shaped to seal securely during commutes or workouts, bundled with three pairs of soft silicone ear tips. Efficient voltage regulation from the QCC5181 chip extends playback to approximately 8 hours on a single charge (48 mAh pure cobalt battery), reaching up to 40 hours total using the 400 mAh pocket charging case via USB Type-C. - Qualcomm QCC5181 flagship chipset with dual-core DSP - 10 mm patented high-sensitivity internal magnetic dynamic driver unit - Bluetooth 5.4 wireless transmission (15-meter range) - Comprehensive codec support: LDAC, aptX Adaptive, aptX, AAC, SBC - Hybrid adaptive active noise cancellation up to 55 dB noise reduction depth - AI-powered 6-microphone dual-feed beamforming matrix with CVC HD voice call clarity - 4 audio modes: ANC, Transparency, High-Performance Gaming (55 ms latency), Standard - Seamless dual-device multipoint pairing - Battery life: ~8 hours per charge (earbuds, 48 mAh), ~40 hours total with 400 mAh charging case - USB Type-C charging port - KZ official companion app with battery readout, earbud finder, and customizable parametric EQ - Released early 2025 ### Moondrop Golden Ages II - **Product Page**: https://chi-fi.top/tws/moondrop-golden-ages-ii - **Category**: Wireless earbuds - **Brand**: Moondrop - **Price**: from $90 USD - **Summary**: Planar magnetic true wireless earbuds with Bluetooth 6.0, LDAC, and 3D spatial audio - **AliExpress**: https://s.click.aliexpress.com/e/_c3swIWVD #### Pros - Patented 13 mm annular planar magnetic driver delivers ultra-low non-linear distortion (≤0.05%) - Bluetooth 6.0 platform with broad codec support: LDAC, LHDC 5.0, LC3, AAC, and SBC - Dynamic 3D spatial audio with 6-axis gyroscope head-tracking across three acoustic modes - Wide-band active noise cancellation and wind-resistant ducts preserve musical fidelity - Dual-microphone beamforming array with AI environmental noise cancellation for clear calls - Qi wireless charging support alongside USB-C and bundled frosted suede protective case #### Cons - Planar drivers draw more power during LDAC playback than traditional dynamic drivers - Charging case maintains a distinctive retro-cassette design that is slightly boxy in pockets - Touch sensor tap gestures can occasionally register accidental inputs when adjusting fit #### Specifications - **Release year**: 2025 - **Bluetooth version**: 6 - **Codecs**: LDAC, LHDC, LC3, AAC, SBC - **Active noise cancellation**: Yes - **Battery life, earbuds**: 8 h - **Battery life, with case**: 24 h - **Gaming latency**: 55 ms - **Wireless charging**: Yes - **Driver types**: planar #### Details & Specifications The Moondrop Golden Ages II is a true wireless stereo (TWS) in-ear monitor engineered around planar magnetic acoustic transducers. Serving as the generational successor to the original Golden Ages, the II model incorporates Moondrop's patented 13 mm full-frequency super-linear annular planar magnetic driver. Driven by an array of high-grade N55 neodymium magnets and an annular dual-suspension diaphragm, the planar transducer operates with an ultra-low non-linear distortion profile (≤0.05%), rendering delicate instrument decay, rapid acoustic transients, and expansive micro-detail across the frequency band. Powered by a custom 22 nm TWS SoC chip with high analog output power (25 mW + 25 mW) and a 106 dB signal-to-noise ratio, the Golden Ages II runs on modern Bluetooth 6.0 wireless architecture. It supports high-bitrate streaming over Sony LDAC, Savitech LHDC 5.0, and LE Audio LC3, alongside standard AAC and SBC protocols. An onboard 6-axis gyroscope sensor powers dynamic 3D spatial audio with real-time head tracking, configurable through the Moondrop Link 2.0 app alongside second-generation parametric EQ (PEQ) profiles and a 55 ms low-latency gaming mode. Wide-band feedforward active noise cancellation attenuates ambient urban rumble without compressing the planar driver's natural bass response. The aesthetic pays homage to vintage tape players with a retro-cassette charging case finished in matte grey and bundled with a tailored frosted suede protective sleeve. Battery capacity provides approximately 8 hours of playback per charge (under AAC), reaching 24 hours total via the pocket case, which supports both USB Type-C and Qi wireless charging. - Patented 13 mm full-frequency super-linear annular planar magnetic driver (N55 neodymium array) - Custom 22 nm TWS SoC chipset with 25 mW + 25 mW analog output and 106 dB SNR - Bluetooth 6.0 wireless transmission (10-meter open range) - Comprehensive codec support: LDAC, LHDC 5.0, LC3 (LE Audio), AAC, SBC - Wide-band active noise cancellation (ANC) with wind-resistant duct and ambient transparency mode - Dynamic 3D spatial audio with 6-axis gyroscope sensor and real-time head tracking - Dual-microphone beamforming matrix with AI environmental noise cancellation (ENC) - 55 ms ultra-low latency gaming mode - Battery life: ~8 hours per charge (earbuds, 40 mAh, AAC), ~24 hours total with 400 mAh charging case - Dual charging options: USB Type-C and Qi wireless charging - Moondrop Link 2.0 companion app with second-generation parametric EQ (PEQ) and DSP profiles - Released early 2025 ## Guides & Blog ### [Earphones for a phone with no jack](https://chi-fi.top/blog/earphones-for-a-phone-with-no-jack) - **Summary**: A phone with no headphone jack needs a USB-C dongle, earphones with a USB-C plug, or wireless earbuds. The cheapest working pair starts at $23 on AliExpress. If your phone has no headphone jack, wired earphones need a dongle: a small adapter that plugs into the USB-C port and gives you a 3.5 mm jack. The cheapest working setup is the KZ ZVX earphones ($8) with the FiiO JA11 dongle ($15), from $23 in total. You can also skip the dongle with earphones that have a USB-C plug, or go wireless. These picks come from published reviews, specifications and owner discussion; chi-fi has not tested them (see [how we pick](https://chi-fi.top/how-we-pick)), and the prices are "from" prices, not live ones. ## The short answer - **Cheapest working setup:** the [KZ ZVX](https://chi-fi.top/iem/kz-audio-zvx) earphones, from $8, with the [FiiO JA11](https://chi-fi.top/dac/fiio-ja11) dongle, from $15. - **A dongle that passes a headset mic and remote buttons:** the [FiiO JA11](https://chi-fi.top/dac/fiio-ja11), from $15. - **A dongle with volume buttons and a mic:** the [HiBy FC3](https://chi-fi.top/dac/hiby-fc3), from $30. - **A dongle with a 4.4 mm balanced jack:** the [Kiwi Ears Allegro Mini](https://chi-fi.top/dac/kiwi-ears-allegro-mini), from $24. - **Earphones with a USB-C cable that has a built-in DAC:** the [Moondrop Kadenz](https://chi-fi.top/iem/moondrop-kadenz), from $197. - **No cable at all:** the [Moondrop Space Travel 2 Ultra](https://chi-fi.top/tws/moondrop-space-travel-2-ultra), from $40. ## Check the port first Most current phones charge over USB-C, and every dongle here takes USB-C. The [KA11](https://chi-fi.top/dac/fiio-ka11) is also sold with a Lightning plug. iPhone 15 and later use USB-C, but older iPhones use Lightning, so check your port before you order. Each dongle page lists the platforms it works with. The FiiO JA11's EQ app and the KA11's settings app are both Android-only. ## Dongles, compared - **FiiO JA11, $15:** the cheapest dongle here. It passes a headset mic and in-line remote buttons, and its app adds a 5-band EQ. It has no volume buttons, and it is rated at 30 mW at 32 Ω (the maker's figure), so it is made for earphones. - **HiBy FC1, $20:** volume buttons with 30 steps and 70 mW at 32 Ω (the maker's figure). Remote buttons on headphone cables don't work through it, so a headset mic is out too. - **Kiwi Ears Allegro Mini, $24:** a 3.5 mm jack and a 4.4 mm balanced jack, rated at 30 mW at 32 Ω. One reviewer measured no extra power from the 4.4 mm jack, so use it only with earphones that have a 4.4 mm plug. - **FiiO KA11, $25:** the most power on this list, rated at 200 mW at 32 Ω (the maker's figure), which matters more for full-size headphones than for earphones. It has no microphone support, and it gets warm in use. - **HiBy FC3, $30:** volume and playback buttons on the dongle, with headset mic support. Its rated power is the same as the FC1's, and some users report the connection dropping. The earphones in this guide are easy to drive, so the cheapest dongle is enough for them. Power figures matter more when you move to full-size headphones. ## Earphones that pair well The ZVX is the cheapest of the wired picks, with an all-metal shell and clear, forward mids. Reviewers find its bass tight, and some find voices slightly unnatural. The Moondrop CHU II is a little more money and has small metal shells that fit most ears, plus a light detachable cable. Both have detachable cables with 2-pin connectors. For more choices by sound, see the [guide to cheap IEMs under $20](https://chi-fi.top/blog/best-cheap-iems-under-20). ## Skip the dongle The Moondrop Kadenz is the step up, at $197. Its box includes a USB-C cable with a built-in DAC, so you plug it straight into the phone. Its shell is heavy and its shape can be uncomfortable for some ears, and the sound changes noticeably with the source. The [Simgot EG280](https://chi-fi.top/iem/simgot-eg280), from $72, comes with a USB-C dongle that has gaming presets. The bundle changes from one listing to another, so check that the variant you buy includes it. The dongle is decent but not powerful. ## Or go wireless The Moondrop Space Travel 2 Ultra needs no cable and no dongle. It supports LDAC, which needs an Android phone that supports it, and its maker lists about 7 hours per charge with AAC, less with LDAC and noise cancelling, and about 24 hours with the case. Its noise cancelling is AI-assisted, according to the maker. The other wireless picks are in [wireless earbuds](https://chi-fi.top/tws). ## Before you buy 1. **Check the port.** USB-C or Lightning, depending on the phone. 2. **Check the mic and button options.** Headset mic and remote support depend on the dongle. The FiiO JA11 and HiBy FC3 pass a headset mic, and the FC1 and KA11 don't. On AliExpress, a mic on the earphone cable is usually a separate option, so check it before you pay. 3. **Check the plug.** Most wired picks here take a 3.5 mm plug. A 4.4 mm dongle only helps with earphones that have a 4.4 mm plug. 4. **Check the spare cable.** The ZVX uses a 0.75 mm 2-pin connector, and the CHU II uses 0.78 mm, so a replacement cable has to match. 5. **Read the power figures as the maker's.** The power figures here are the makers' own, except where a product page names a reviewer's test. The [headphone DAC](https://chi-fi.top/dac) category lists every dongle chi-fi carries, with each one's price and specs. ### [Gadget gifts under $30, by who they're for](https://chi-fi.top/blog/gadget-gifts-under-30) - **Summary**: Earphones, controllers, gaming mice and phone dongles from $8 to $30 on AliExpress, sorted by who you're buying for, with what to check before you order. A good gadget gift under $30 is one that works with what the person already owns. That's the hard part when you're buying for someone else: you need to know their phone, their console or their hands, not just the product. So these are sorted by who you're buying for, and each section says what to find out first. They're picked from published reviews, specifications and owner discussion; chi-fi has not tested them (see [how we pick](https://chi-fi.top/how-we-pick)). Prices are "from" prices on AliExpress, not live ones. ## The short answer - **Someone who listens to music on their phone:** wired earphones, the [KZ Castor Bass](https://chi-fi.top/iem/kz-castor-bass) from $8 or the [Moondrop CHU III](https://chi-fi.top/iem/moondrop-chu-iii) from $25. - **Their phone has no headphone jack:** add the [HiBy FC1](https://chi-fi.top/dac/hiby-fc1) dongle, from $20. With the Castor Bass, that's $28 for both. - **Someone who games on PC, Switch or a phone:** the [GameSir T4 Nova Lite](https://chi-fi.top/gamepads/gamesir-t4-nova-lite) controller, from $16, if you're not sure which platform. The [8BitDo Ultimate 2C](https://chi-fi.top/gamepads/8bitdo-ultimate-2c-bluetooth-game-controller) or [GameSir Nova 2 Lite](https://chi-fi.top/gamepads/gamesir-nova-2-lite) if you are. - **A PC gamer:** a light wireless gaming mouse, the [Attack Shark R1](https://chi-fi.top/mouses/attack-shark-r1) from $16, or the [AJAZZ AJ139](https://chi-fi.top/mouses/ajazz-aj139-v2-mcpro) from $19, which comes with a charging dock. - **If you can go to $33:** the [Boyhom R36S](https://chi-fi.top/handhelds/boyhom-r36s), a pocket console for classic games. ## For someone who listens to music on their phone Wired earphones are the cheapest gifts here. These sit in the ear canal (they're often called IEMs) and have detachable cables, so a broken cable doesn't mean a broken pair. **For a bass lover, the Castor Bass, from $8.** Each earpiece has four small switches that change the bass and treble, 16 settings in all, flipped with the pin tool in the box. In the default setting the bass is big but mostly stays out of the way of voices. There's no carry case, and the clear plastic can yellow over time. **For a safer all-rounder, the CHU III, from $25.** Headphones.com calls it one of the best budget earphones of 2026, mainly for its bass quality at the price. The sound is balanced and clean, the small metal shells fit most ears, and it runs straight from a phone. Its wide nozzles don't suit every ear, and the box holds little beyond a pouch, tips and a basic cable. **Find out first:** does their phone have a headphone jack? Many newer phones don't. If not, see the next section. On AliExpress, a microphone on the cable is usually a separate option on the listing, so pick it if they take calls with earphones. More choices, sorted by sound: [best cheap IEMs under $20](https://chi-fi.top/blog/best-cheap-iems-under-20). ## For someone whose phone has no headphone jack A headphone dongle plugs into the phone's charging port and gives wired earphones and headphones a proper jack again. It's a useful gift on its own for someone who still owns good wired headphones, and it pairs with the earphones above. **The HiBy FC1, from $20,** is small and light, has its own volume buttons and doesn't need charging. It has enough power for earphones and easy-to-drive headphones, not for demanding full-size ones. The play and volume buttons on a headphone cable don't work through it. **The FiiO KA11, from $25,** is the more powerful one, enough for most earphones and many headphones. It gets warm in use, its settings app is Android-only, and it has no microphone support, so a headset mic won't work through it. **Find out first:** which port does their phone have? The FC1 is USB-C. The KA11 comes in USB-C and in a Lightning version for older iPhones, so pick the right one on the listing. ## For someone who games on PC, Switch or a phone All three have Hall-effect sticks, which use magnets instead of parts that wear, so they shouldn't develop stick drift, the slow creep that ruins many controllers. **If you don't know what they play on, the T4 Nova Lite, from $16.** It works with PC, Steam Deck, Switch, Android phones and iPhones, and connects by Bluetooth, a USB dongle or a cable. It leaves out motion controls, back buttons and lighting, and battery life is middling, around 10 hours. **For a Switch player, the 8BitDo Ultimate 2C, from $28,** but only the Bluetooth version: it works with Switch and has motion controls. The Wireless version uses a dongle and is meant for PC and Android, without Switch support. Both add two extra shoulder buttons. The D-pad is the weak spot. **For a PC gamer, the Nova 2 Lite, from $30.** PC Gamer scored it 87/100 and called it the new best budget controller for PC. It has no motion controls, and the plastic feels plain. The charging station shown in its marketing is sold separately, so don't expect it in the box. **Find out first:** what they play on. These are for PC, Switch and phones; for an Xbox or PlayStation player, buy a controller made for that console. ## For a PC gamer A light wireless gaming mouse is an easy upgrade from an office mouse, and both of these connect by cable, USB dongle or Bluetooth. Their older sensor is fine for everyday and casual gaming, less precise than pricier mice for competitive shooters. **The Attack Shark R1, from $16,** weighs about 59 g, and the maker quotes up to about 65 hours per charge. It's fairly large, so it can feel big in small hands. **The AJAZZ AJ139, from $19,** comes with a magnetic charging dock, which makes it feel more like a gift: it sits on the dock instead of plugging in. The name covers two models (V2 MC and Pro) with different sensors, so check which one the listing is, and there are few independent reviews. **Find out first:** their hand size, if you can. With a mouse, fit matters more than the numbers on the box, and the R1 runs large. Want to spend more on a mouse? See [$20 or $70?](https://chi-fi.top/blog/cheap-wireless-gaming-mouse) ## If you can go to $33 The Boyhom R36S is $3 over the budget, and it's the biggest gift here: a pocket console with a 3.5-inch screen and two analog sticks. It plays 8-bit, 16-bit and PS1 games well, plus many N64, PSP and DS games. Two catches. The microSD card it comes with is often low quality and can fail, so a better card is a sensible extra. And many clones are sold under the R36S name, so buy from a listing with plenty of reviews. These devices are emulators: the person supplies the game files, made from games they own. More handhelds, sorted by what they play: [best budget retro handhelds](https://chi-fi.top/blog/best-budget-retro-handhelds). ## Before you order 1. **Check the delivery estimate.** AliExpress shows one on each listing for your address. Compare it with the date you need the gift, and leave a margin. 2. **Pick the right option on the listing.** Several of these are sold in versions under one name: the 8BitDo 2C (Bluetooth or Wireless), the FiiO KA11 (USB-C or Lightning), the AJAZZ AJ139 (V2 MC or Pro). The option you tick decides what arrives. 3. **Check the price on the day.** Prices here are "from" prices and change, especially around sales. The ten picks below each list their own pros and cons. ### [Best budget retro handhelds, by what they play](https://chi-fi.top/blog/best-budget-retro-handhelds) - **Summary**: Six handhelds from $33 to $224 on AliExpress, and which game systems each one runs well, so you can match the device to the games you want. A retro handheld is a pocket game console that runs emulators for older systems. The screen and the shape matter, but the thing that decides what you can play is the chip inside, and that mostly follows the price. So choose by the games you want, not by the spec sheet. These six are picked from published reviews, specifications and owner discussion; chi-fi has not tested them (see [how we pick](https://chi-fi.top/how-we-pick)). Prices are "from" prices. These devices are emulators. You supply the game files, made from games you own. ## Which systems each price tier can play **8-bit, 16-bit and PS1** (NES, Game Boy, SNES, Mega Drive, PlayStation): every handheld here runs these well. If this is your list, buy the cheapest one you like holding. **N64, PSP, Dreamcast and DS** are where the budget models split. The cheap devices are hit and miss. The [Boyhom K56](https://chi-fi.top/handhelds/boyhom-k56) runs everything up to Dreamcast, N64 and PSP well, and the [R36S](https://chi-fi.top/handhelds/boyhom-r36s) plays many N64, PSP and DS games. On the RG35XX H, PSP and Dreamcast are playable but can stutter. On the Cubexx, N64, Dreamcast and PSP are hit and miss, and on the Trimui Smart Pro they are shaky. **PS2, GameCube, and some Switch and PS3 games** are out of reach of the budget models. Of the six, only the [Retroid Pocket 5](https://chi-fi.top/handhelds/retroid-pocket-5) handles PS2, GameCube and PSP well, plus some Switch and PS3 games. It costs from $224. ## The six, one by one ### Boyhom R36S, from $33 The cheapest way in, with two analog sticks and a 3.5-inch 4:3 screen. Plan to replace the bundled microSD card, which is often low quality. [See the Boyhom R36S page](https://chi-fi.top/handhelds/boyhom-r36s). ### ANBERNIC RG35XX H, from $47 Pocket-size, with a great-feeling D-pad and buttons, two analog sticks and two microSD slots. The stock software is basic, so many owners install community firmware. [See the ANBERNIC RG35XX H page](https://chi-fi.top/handhelds/anbernic-rg35xx-h). ### Trimui Smart Pro, from $60 A bright 4.96-inch 720p widescreen in a PSP-style shape, with easy software. The short-travel D-pad makes fighting games and diagonals hard. [See the Trimui Smart Pro page](https://chi-fi.top/handhelds/trimui-smart-pro). ### ANBERNIC RG Cubexx, from $69 A square 720×720 screen that suits Game Boy and older games, with Wi-Fi, Bluetooth and HDMI out. Most games made for other screen shapes show black bars. [See the ANBERNIC RG Cubexx page](https://chi-fi.top/handhelds/anbernic-rg-cubexx). ### Boyhom K56, from $105 An Android handheld with game menus already set up, Hall-effect sticks and 128 GB of storage. The plastic build feels cheaper than the price. [See the Boyhom K56 page](https://chi-fi.top/handhelds/boyhom-k56). ### Retroid Pocket 5, from $224 A bright 5.5-inch 1080p AMOLED screen and the most power here. Only a modest step up if you already own a Retroid Pocket 4 Pro. [See the Retroid Pocket 5 page](https://chi-fi.top/handhelds/retroid-pocket-5). ## Match one to how you play - **Just trying retro gaming:** the R36S has the lowest price. - **Mostly Game Boy and pixel-art games:** the Cubexx and its square screen. - **Platformers and fighting games:** the RG35XX H, for its D-pad and buttons. The Smart Pro's short-travel D-pad is a weak spot for these. - **N64, PSP and Dreamcast that actually run:** the K56. - **PS2 and GameCube:** the Retroid Pocket 5. No budget model here does this well. - **Phone games and streaming apps too:** the K56 and the Retroid Pocket 5 run Android. ## Before you buy 1. **Buy a decent microSD card.** The R36S's bundled card often fails, and the Retroid Pocket 5's 128 GB fills fast. 2. **Check which version the listing is.** Many clones are sold under the R36S name, and some cannot run community firmware such as dArkOS. A newer Trimui Smart Pro S fixes some of the Smart Pro's problems. The K56 is also sold as the Kinhank K56, and listings disagree on its screen resolution. 3. **Expect to set up the software.** Stock software is basic on some of these, which is why many owners install community firmware. 4. **Treat battery figures as the maker's.** They range from about 5 hours (Smart Pro) to 8 hours (RG35XX H and K56), and real life can differ. 5. **Mind the screen shape.** A 4:3 screen suits older consoles, a widescreen suits PSP, and a square screen leaves black bars on most games. The six picks below each list their own pros and cons. ### [Best cheap IEMs under $20, by sound](https://chi-fi.top/blog/best-cheap-iems-under-20) - **Summary**: Five wired earphones from $8 to $18 on AliExpress, sorted by the sound you want: big bass, warm and easy, or small and comfortable. IEMs (in-ear monitors) are wired earphones that sit in your ear canal. Under $20, AliExpress sells some good ones, and the hard part is choosing by sound rather than by the spec sheet. These five are picked from published reviews, specifications and what owners say in community discussions. chi-fi has not tested them (see [how we pick](https://chi-fi.top/how-we-pick)), and the prices are "from" prices, not live ones. ## The short answer - **Most bass for the least money:** the [KZ Castor Bass](https://chi-fi.top/iem/kz-castor-bass), from $8. - **Clear, detailed mids in a metal shell:** the [KZ ZVX](https://chi-fi.top/iem/kz-audio-zvx), from $8. - **Warm and easy to listen to for hours:** the [TANGZU Wan'er S.G](https://chi-fi.top/iem/tangzu-wan-er-sg), from $15. - **Warm, with more bass than the original Zero:** the [7Hz x Crinacle Zero 2](https://chi-fi.top/iem/7hz-x-crinacle-zero-2), from $15. - **Small, comfortable, with a nicer cable:** the [Moondrop CHU II](https://chi-fi.top/iem/moondrop-chu-ii), from $18. ## If you want bass The Castor Bass is built for it. Each earpiece has four small switches that change the bass and treble, giving 16 sound settings, and you flip them with the included pin tool. In the default setting the bass is big but mostly stays out of the way of vocals. Turn the bass switches up and it can spill into the mids and make voices muddy. There is no carry case, and the clear plastic can yellow over time. The Zero 2 is the calmer way to get bass. Tuned together with the reviewer Crinacle, it is warm and bass-forward, which suits pop and hip-hop, and the treble stays smooth. The trade-off is little sparkle at the top and only average detail. ## If you want a warm, relaxed sound The Wan'er S.G has a warm, smooth sound that is easy to listen to for hours, and its light shells stay comfortable. It is not a pick for detail: technical performance is average, the sense of space is narrow, and the bass can blur into the mids a little. The stock cable tangles easily and has stiff ear hooks, so many owners replace it. ## If you want detail The ZVX is the one to look at. Reviewers like its clear, forward mids, good detail and tight, quick bass, and its all-metal shells feel solid for the price. Some reviewers find voices and instruments slightly unnatural, the metal makes it heavier and bulkier than most budget sets, and the box has foam ear tips only. ## If you want comfort and a better cable The CHU II has small metal shells that fit most ears, and a light detachable cable that is better than most at this price. The sound is fun, with good bass for the money. The mids sit slightly back, so guitars can sound thin, and the treble can feel bright if you are used to warmer earphones. Detail and separation are average. ## What cheap costs you At this price, expect average detail and a fairly narrow sense of space from most of these pairs. Extras are basic too: thin stock cables, and often no case. What you are choosing between is mainly tuning and comfort. ## Before you buy 1. **Check the cable connector.** All five have detachable cables with a 2-pin connector. KZ lists 0.75 mm and 7Hz and Moondrop list 0.78 mm. The sizes are close, but check before you buy a replacement cable. 2. **Plan to try other ear tips.** Fit changes the sound more than anything else. The ZVX ships with foam tips only, and the Zero 2's angular shells do not suit every ear. Ear tips are cheap. 3. **They are easy to drive.** The ZVX, Zero 2, Wan'er S.G and CHU II are listed at 18 to 32 Ω, which a phone handles without help. If your phone has no headphone jack, you need a USB-C [dongle or adapter](https://chi-fi.top/dac). 4. **Read the listing options.** On AliExpress, details like a microphone on the cable, colour and bundle are usually separate choices, so check them before you pay. ## When to spend more If you outgrow these, the [Moondrop Kadenz](https://chi-fi.top/iem/moondrop-kadenz) is the step up in the catalog, from $197. It has strong, physical bass, swappable nozzles to change the treble, and a USB-C cable with a built-in DAC in the box. Reviewers rate it good rather than outstanding, and its heavy shell does not fit every ear. The five picks below each list their own pros and cons. ### [Cheap wireless gaming mouse: $20 or $70?](https://chi-fi.top/blog/cheap-wireless-gaming-mouse) - **Summary**: What a $16 to $22 mouse gives you, what a $68 to $74 one adds, and whether 8,000 Hz polling and a flagship sensor are worth paying for. Budget wireless gaming mice on AliExpress fall into two groups: around $20, and around $70. The listings quote big numbers for both, so it is hard to see what the extra money buys. These six are picked from published reviews, specifications and owner discussion; chi-fi has not tested them (see [how we pick](https://chi-fi.top/how-we-pick)). Prices are "from" prices. ## The short answer - **Casual and everyday gaming:** a $16 to $22 mouse is enough. The [Attack Shark R1](https://chi-fi.top/mouses/attack-shark-r1), [AJAZZ AJ139](https://chi-fi.top/mouses/ajazz-aj139-v2-mcpro) and [Attack Shark X11](https://chi-fi.top/mouses/attack-shark-x11-mouse-paw3311) all weigh 59 to 66 g and connect three ways. - **Competitive shooters:** the $68 to $74 group adds a newer sensor, much lower weight (39 to 49 g) and up to 8,000 Hz polling. ## What $20 gets you All three use PixArt's older PAW3311 sensor, which is accurate enough for everyday and casual gaming and less precise than pricier mice for competitive shooters. All three connect by USB-C cable, 2.4 GHz dongle or Bluetooth. - The **R1** (from $16) is the lightest at about 59 g and the cheapest. The maker quotes up to about 65 hours per charge. It is fairly large at 123 × 64 mm, and the side buttons can wiggle. - The **AJ139** (from $19) comes with a magnetic charging dock. The name covers two models, the V2 MC and the Pro, with different sensors and weights, so check which the listing is. - The **X11** (from $22) has a magnetic RGB dock that also holds the receiver. It uses the same sensor as the cheaper R1, so you are mostly paying for the dock. ## What $70 adds - The **[R5 Ultra](https://chi-fi.top/mouses/attack-shark-r5-ultra)** (from $72) is about 39 g with a carbon-fibre shell and an ambidextrous shape. It does not store settings profiles on the mouse, and the coating can feel slippery. - The **[R11 Ultra](https://chi-fi.top/mouses/attack-shark-r11-ultra-8k-carbon-fiber-wireless-gaming-mouse)** (from $68) is about 49 g with a forged carbon-fibre shell. The textured surface grips well but feels rough to some hands. - The **[R2](https://chi-fi.top/mouses/attack-shark-r2-gaming-wireless-mouse-paw3950-8k-magnesium-alloy)** (from $74) is about 45 g with a magnesium-alloy shell. It is small, at about 118 × 62 mm. All three use a PixArt PAW3950-family sensor, support up to 8,000 Hz polling, and connect by cable, dongle or Bluetooth. Independent testing of them is thin, so many of the claims come from the maker. ## The terms, in plain words **Sensor.** The part that tracks movement. A newer sensor tracks fast movements more precisely. The PAW3311 in the cheap group is older; the PAW3950 family is the flagship line. **DPI.** How far the cursor moves per inch of mouse movement. The box numbers (18,000 on the R1, 42,000 on the pricier mice) are ceilings. Most players set it far lower, so a higher maximum is not a reason to pay more. **Polling rate.** How many times a second the mouse reports to the PC. 1,000 Hz is once every millisecond; 8,000 Hz is every 0.125 ms. A higher rate asks more of the PC and the battery, and the highest rates need the cable on some mice, so check the listing. For casual play the difference is small. **Weight.** Grams matter more than any of the above for comfort. At about 59 g the R1 already weighs noticeably less than a typical office mouse; the $70 group goes much lighter. **Optical switches.** These avoid the double-clicking that wears out older mice. The R2 and R11 use them, rated for 100 and 70 million clicks (the maker's figures). ## Pick by your hand - **Palm or claw grip, larger hands:** the R1 is built for them, but can feel big in small hands. - **Fingertip grip or smaller hands:** the R2 is very small, and suits a fingertip grip rather than a palm grip. - **Left-handed:** the R5 Ultra has an ambidextrous shape. ## Before you buy 1. **Check which model the listing is.** The AJ139 name covers two models. The R2 is sold with and without a charging dock. 2. **Battery figures are the maker's.** The R1 is rated at about 65 hours and the AJ139 at 40+ hours on 2.4 GHz. 3. **The X11 has no power switch** to save battery. 4. **Use the dongle for games.** Bluetooth suits laptops and tablets, and the dongle gives low-lag wireless play. The six picks below each list their own pros and cons.