It feels like just yesterday that we were shouting happy New Year and 2022 came to an end, but we’re already at the end of the first quarter of the new year. Our appetite for new tech was whet at the end of last year, with developers and manufacturers promising some exciting releases in 2023 that we just couldn’t wait to try out. Well now that we’re at what could be seen as a milestone in the year, let’s take a moment to pause and reflect on what quarter one of the year has given us.

Although there’s an entire page of products on the wishlist waiting for the community to try out, we’ve tried out and reviewed more than 10 new pieces of tech since the year began including the Samsung Galaxy Fold 4, audio gear from Hakii Mix and HAYLOU, and some interesting devices from Oak & Iron, OSOTEK and GameSir that we’ll take a closer look at in this article. We’ll also explore what’s still on the wishlist that could possibly be reviewed in the second quarter. Let’s get to it.

Best Tryouts Our Users Like Most

GameSir X2 Pro-Xbox Mobile Controller

Overall Score: 4.0/5

So far, this portable gaming gadget has received stellar reviews and comments from users in our community for its ease of use and comfortable grip. The GameSir X2 Pro-Xbox Mobile Controller is designed to allow Android users to access the Xbox cloud gaming platform on the go effortlessly. It connects directly to your mobile device to minimize the need for charging, and in turn, the loss of precious game time. Speaking of connections, the review posted by Neel P mentions that he appreciates the fact that the part that connects to your phone is quite flexible to prevent damaging your Type-C charging port when you plug the controller in or out. He gave the product a total of 4 out of 5 stars, stating that it’s had a transformative impact on his gaming experience. 

Pros

• Compatible with Xbox Game Pass Ultimate to give to easy access to your console games
• Adjustable Type-C USB pin connects seamlessly to devices and eliminated the need to recharge the controller
• Contemporary matte black design
  
  

Cons

• The buttons are close together which can be uncomfortable for large hands
• Not too many instructions in the box
• You need to remove your phone case for the controller to fit

HAKII Mix Wearable Stereo Open Ear Headband

Overall Score: 4.0/5

Gone are the days when you could have only one earbud in the ear in order to be aware of what was going on around you. The first quarter of 2023 and HAKII have given the world the HAKII Mix Wearable Stereo Open Ear Headband, which essentially lets you listen to music without putting any objects in or around your ear. It’s the perfect gadget for those who enjoy jamming some tunes while at the gym because it’s designed to avoid damage from sweat while remaining comfortably snug around your head. Plus, it comes with 2 different sized bands according to the review by Stacey T who also agrees that they’re designed for sports environments. Jonathan T noted that it still fits quite well on his head even when he was sweating, and he enjoys the simplicity of the design. It’s received 4 out of 5 stars from reviewers in the community, with reviewer Daniel M making special mention of the ease of use of this gadget. 

Pros

• An innovative product with long lasting battery power
• It’s lightweight and soft, comfortable enough to use for a long time
• Has a clean a clear sound quality
  
  

Cons

• The design is slightly bulky and can generate stares from onlookers
• Packaging for the product is too big, and not reusable
• Bystanders can hear your music 

HAYLOU PurFree True Wireless Open Earbuds

Overall Score: 4.5/5

The concept of open-ear sound pieces could become increasingly popular among fitness enthusiasts for their ability to evade sweat better than traditional earpieces. The appearance of two such gadgets on this list adds validity to this possibility. HAYLOU PurFree True Wireless Open Earbuds fit securely and comfortably on the ears to provide up to 32 hours of audio output. Reviewer Kylla S, who self-reports that their ears are usually too small to enjoy using wireless earbuds, says that they love these particular ones. They have a powerful noise-canceling ability that’s quite surprising considering that there’s nothing physically in your ear, plus they have great sound quality, according to the same reviewer. It makes sense to wonder if these noise-canceling earbuds still permit awareness of the environment. Reviewer Bumpy S reports that they do, and they also report that the earbuds remain securely in place throughout your session.

Pros

• The buds are designed beautifully, both aesthetically and for functionality. 
• They have a comfortable and soft fit, and an open ear design that’s less harsh on the ears.
• Pairs easily with any smart device,and provides stunning sound clarity.
  
  

Cons

• People around you can hear the sound from the buds, and the microphone quality is less than ideal
• No clear indication of the battery level, how to pause/play, or adjust the volume
• Too sensitive to touch

OSOTEK H200 Cordless Wet Dry Vacuum Cleaner

Overall Score: 5/5

The task of cleaning your home is often quite unpleasant and time-consuming. So it’s always nice to have appliances that minimize the task, even if it’s only a little bit. The OSOTEK H200 Cordless Wet Dry Vacuum is a lightweight appliance that’s easy to maneuver, allowing you to get rid of wet or dry messes in a swift motion. It automatically moves forward gently so you don’t have to forcefully push it around the house, plus it comes with a 750ml water tank and 640ml dustbin so you don’t need to stop between cleans to refill or empty anything. The review posted by seriousjoker mentions that the vacuum has relatively low noise levels that he measured at 68 dB, which is lower than the 78 dB advertised by the company. “It's a solid choice for daily floor cleaning, with efficient wet-cleaning capabilities and a user-friendly design.”   

Pros 

• It has a sleek, modern, and minimalistic design with a comfortable handle
• Convenient charging and cleaning station
• 180° reclining function for hard to reach areas
  
  

Cons

• Slightly bulky and heavy 
• It takes a long time to recharge the battery
• Steep pricing

Still on the Wish List

There are 5 gadgets currently on the wish list that were listed in February alone. Check them out and get wishing if you want the chance to try them out and have your review posted on Heyup.

• OnePlus11 Android Smartphone
• Furbulous Smart-Cleaning and Packing Cat Littler Box
• VIVE XR Elite 
• Pet Robot Loona: The Perfect Pet and Friend
• OnePlus Buds Pro 2

You can join fellow tech enthusiasts in the Community in the open discussions about the Furbulous Smart-Cleaning and Packing Cat Littler Box, and the OnePlus Buds Pro 2 to name a few. 

Gear up for Quarter Two

Quarter two of tryouts is bound to be just as exciting and as giving as the first quarter.  The TENWAYS CGO 600 Electric Bike has been on the wish list since December last year, and that’s been a personal favorite since I read about it. Which items that have been on the wish list for a long time are you hoping to see reviewed between April and June? Join the Heyup Community and share your thoughts in the discussions.