The F series is the line that launched the POCO brand to the masses. POCO has since released various lines and letters. But its most recent offering offers something that stays truest to what POCO first set out to do: uncompromised performance for a reasonable price. The POCO F5 Series, featuring the POCO F5 and POCO F5 Pro on paper, does just that.

POCO F5: A powerful base form

The POCO F5 is the first smartphone in the market to house them Qualcomm Snapdragon 7+ Gen 2. Given the Qualcomm’s history, there’s very little reason to doubt that the phone will handle nearly everything you throw at it.

You can even choose between a 8GB+256GB variant or one that’s 12GB+256GB to make sure you have more than enough memory and storage.

Its 6.67-inch 120Hz Flow AMOLED display is immersive and offers an enjoyable mobile viewing experience. Whether you’re catching up on your favorite Netflix shows, watching the latest GadgetMatch video, or just mindlessly scrolling on TikTok, the POCO F5’s screen will deliver more than satisfactorily.

Its 5,000mAh battery can be recharged to 100% within 50 minutes using the 67W wired charger.

POCO F5 Pro: An all-rounder

POCO usually offers phones that put a focus on performance. And while the POCO F5 Pro does the same, it doesn’t skimp out on the rest of the package.

First of, the white colorway that we reviewed “exudes a premium feel as a flagship does.” Performance-wise, it comfortably runs the latest game from Genshin Impact maker Honkai: Star Rail at high graphics settings on 60fps.

Fret not though, like the base version, you can juice up the 5,160mAh battery on this thing goes up to 100% quickly with the 67W charger.

The camera array: 64MP f/1.79 main, 8MP f/2.2 ultra-wide, 2MP f/2.4 macro, 16MP f/2.45 selfie — which it shares with the base version — also won’t leave you wanting. Check out some of these shots:

SEE ALSO: POCO F5 Pro review

Is the POCO F5 Series your GadgetMatch?

Whether you’re looking for a solid performer or an all-rounder that can keep up with your demanding phone habits, the POCO F5 Series has something for you. The POCO F5 is as great a base smartphone as there is for its price point. Meanwhile, the POCO F5 Pro “shines with a cohesive flagship experience worthy of its price.”

Shopee Special

You can get the POCO F5 Series smartphones at a discounted price with Shopee until May 16. Discounted pricing are as follows:

POCO F5 Pro (Black or White)

• 8GB+256GB: PhP 23,999
• 12GB+256GB: PhP 25,999
• 12GB+512GB: PhP 27,999

POCO F5 (Black, Blue or White)

• 8GB+256GB: PhP 18,299
• 12GB+256GB: PhP 20,099

So, you’re looking at the Samsung Galaxy S23 Ultra. You kind of want it but didn’t jump the gun during the pre-order period. Now, you’re still eyeing it, but you’re undecided. Well, you came to the right place. 

We used the Samsung Galaxy S23 Ultra for a few weeks. Enough time to figure out if it’s your GadgetMatch or not. So, we’re listing down things you might want to ask yourself before splurging. 

Do you like big phones?

The Samsung Galaxy S23 Ultra feels massive to hold. The 6.8-inch display listing is not at all an accurate representation of how it feels holding the phone. For comparison, the HONOR Magic5 Pro has a 6.81-inch display. But since both its display and back panel curve to the side, it feels easier to hold. Meanwhile, the Galaxy S23 Ultra is a boxy behemoth. 

You’ll likely want to buy a case to protect the phone and that will add to its overall bulk. If you can, drop by your nearest Samsung experience store to get a feel of the phone for yourself to gauge if it’s something you don’t mind lugging around for the next couple of years. 

How do you feel about ONE UI?

While you’re at it, play around with ONE UI. That’s the Android wrapper that Samsung puts on top of Android 13. Many tech bros aren’t too fond of ONE UI. Personally, I don’t think it’s as bad as some make it out to be. Sure, it’s not the snappiest, but it’s pretty easy to get used to. 

This is completely a matter of preference, and you can always switch things up by changing themes or using a different launcher. But swipe around and see for yourself if ONE UI is something you’re okay with. 

Will you ever use the S Pen? 

I was a huge fan of the Galaxy Note series when it first came out. The Galaxy SXX Ultra has become the spiritual successor of the line. It’s literally the Note in everything but name. 

Back then, I thought I liked the Note because of the S Pen. But as the line kept going, I found less and less use for the S Pen. Turns out, I liked the Note not because of the S Pen but because of the massive screen. I’m a heavy media consumer and consider big screens a boon. 

Now, I’m not saying the S Pen isn’t useful. It’s just that, personally, I don’t think it’s for me. So, that’s the question you have to ask yourself: Is the S Pen something you see yourself using regularly? 

I’ve had this conversation several times with Lea of UnboxPH. For her part, she uses the S Pen a lot for signing PDFs. I’ve also had a couple of friends who have taken full advantage of its art applications, doodling here or there whenever possible. 

Think about your smartphone usage and see if there’s something you’re already doing that can be elevated with the help of the S Pen. 

How much videos and music do you consume?

STAYC’s Isa is 😍

The Galaxy S23 Ultra is one helluva media consumption machine. The gorgeous and large display is perfect for watching literally anything and everything. And the speakers are also easily one of the best on ANY smartphone right now. 

It’s the perfect media machine, except it does put a strain on your hand after a while. But that didn’t stop me from watching the “Teddy Bear” fancam of STAYC Isa on loop. 

Are you a mobile gamer?

Whether casual or hardcore, you would be pleased to know that the Galaxy S23 Ultra should be able to handle any sort of gaming. Samsung even made a point of highlighting this in their presentation. Mobile gaming is on the rise, especially in many parts of Asia, and Samsung made sure that their latest and greatest slate is up to the task. 

Although, I’ve never really encountered anyone who’s eyed the Galaxy SXX Ultra for gaming purposes. Self-proclaimed gamers tend to go for the more actual gaming-centric phones. That said, the Galaxy S23 Ultra is plenty capable whether you’re just passing time on Subway Surfers or you’re looking to be the MVP in a Mobile Legends match.

Do you REALLY like colors that POP in photos?

The Samsung Galaxy S23 Ultra has a fantastic set of cameras. Easily one of the best today. Samsung likes to punch-up the contrast on their photos. They don’t do it as much now, but it’s still there.

You know what? Just take a look at these samples so you can decide for yourself. 

Food

Zoom

30X Zoom

1X | 10X | 30X

Indoors

Portrait and selfies

Outdoors

‘Nightography’

Will you take plenty of videos?

When it comes to smartphone videos, most of us in the team still think the iPhone is king. But the Galaxy S23 Ultra might just be the closest thing in terms of overall quality. 

Here’s a video that was taken entirely using the Galaxy S23 Ultra. 

@gadgetmatch 29Rooms is an experiential funhouse and it was an absolute blast to experience. Here’s a quick look #ShotOnGalaxy S23 Ultra. More info on 29rooms.sg #artinstallation #art #galaxys23ultra #samsunggalaxy #galaxys23ultra #galaxys23 ♬ original sound – GadgetMatch

If you’re curious about the zooming capabilities in a rather dark environment, here’s a quick sample too. 

The Galaxy S23 Ultra is also home to plenty of video features. The portrait video is particularly fun. You get the usual “bokeh” effect but there are also other filters like Color Point and Glitch.

You also have to consider storage if you fancy using the Galaxy S23 Ultra as a video-taking tool. Videos take up A LOT of space. You’d want to get the 512GB variant if you’re gonna make videos regularly.

Do you need a smartphone that charges fast?

Because the Galaxy S23 Ultra isn’t exactly blazing fast in this department. At least not against some of the other flagships already available as of writing. 

Watch our charge test. 

So, is the Samsung Galaxy S23 Ultra your GadgetMatch?

These are just some of the questions you might want to ask yourself before shelling out at least PhP 81,900/ US$ 1199.99/ SG$ 1,828 to get your hands on one. 

The Samsung Galaxy S23 Ultra is a fantastic device. But there are certain things about it that may not be your cup of tea. The devil, after all, is in the details. 

Our advice is either visit a Samsung experience store or bug a friend who already has one. Make sure to get a feel of the device before committing to it long term.

Samsung Galaxy S23 Ultra specs

• Display — 6.8-inch QHD+ Edge, Dynamic AMOLED 2X, 120Hz refresh rate, 240Hz touch sampling rate, Vision Booster, Enhanced Comfort
• Processor — Qualcomm Snapdragon 8 Gen 2 for Galaxy
• RAM and Storage — 12GB+1TB, 12GB+512GB, 12GB+256GB
• Battery and Charging — 5,000mAh, Fast Wireless Charging 2.0, Wireless Powershare
• OS — Android 13, ONE UI 5.1
• Water Resistance — IP68
• Cameras:
  • 200MP f/1.7 Wide
  • 12MP, f/2.2 Ultra-Wide
  • 10MP, f/2.4 Telephoto, 3x optical zoom
  • 10MP, f/4.9 Telephoto, 10x optical zoom
  • 12MP, f/2.2 Front

Watch our Galaxy S23 Ultra One Week Later Review.

Gamers, rejoice! The Christmas season is finally here. That means it’s also the perfect time to secure PlayStation titles and peripherals to boost the gaming experience. Here are some of the best gift ideas for gamers on both PS4 and PS5:

UNCHARTED: Legacy of Thieves Collection

This collection retails for PhP 2,490 and includes both critically acclaimed single player adventures, UNCHARTED 4: A Thief’s End and UNCHARTED: The Lost Legacy.

Dive into complex history from the point of view of thieves Nathan Drake and Chloe Frazer. Its PlayStation 5 option is remastered with improved visuals and framerate.

God of War: Ragnarök

Already widely considered as the game of the year, Santa Monica Studio’s sequel to the 2018 God of War features Kratos and Atreus going on a mythic journey across nine realms together before Ragnarök arrives.

Kratos will use his weapons like the Leviathan Axe and Blades of Chaos as he puts everything on the line to fight for family while facing fearsome enemies from Norse gods to wild beasts.

God of War: Ragnarök is priced at PhP 3,490 for PS5 and PhP 2,990 for PS4.

Horizon Forbidden West

From Sony comes an action RPG wherein Aloy braves the Forbidden West, a frontier that conceals mysterious threats.

The adventure will take gamers to a far-future, post-apocalyptic world of Horizon where land is dying and vicious storms keep ravaging what’s left of humanity.

That said, it will be up to Aloy to uncover the secrets, forge alliances, and defeat the enemy to prevail.

Horizon Forbidden West is available at PhP 3,490 for PS5 and PhP 2,990 for PS4.

Gran Turismo 7

For those into racing, Gran Turismo 7 brings together the very best of the Real Driving Simulator.

The game reintroduces GT Simulation Mode, on top of the head-to-head GT Sport Mode, GT Campaign, Arcade, and Driving School.

With over 420 cars available at Brand Central and the Used Car Dealership from day one and over 90 track routes including classics, Gran Turismo 7 promises both unparalleled detail and experience.

You can purchase the game for PhP 3,490 for PS5 and PhP 2,990 for PS4.

The Last of Us Part I

The multi-awarded game gets a PlayStation 5 treatment. Protagonist Joel smuggles 14-year-old Ellie out of a military quarantine zone, which jumpstarts a brutal cross-country journey.

This package includes The Last of Us single-player story and celebrated prequel chapter, Left Behind, which explores the events that changed the lives of Ellie and her best friend Riley forever.

The Last of Us Part I costs PhP 3,490 as well.

Gaming peripherals

As for accessories, you should get your hands on the DualSense Wireless Controller for PS5 which now comes in new colors. The controllers are now available in Midnight Black, Cosmic Red, Starlight Blue, Galactic Purple, and Nova Pink, as well as Gray Camouflage.

It is available in all PlayStation authorized dealers starting at PhP 3,990.

Speaking of those colors, one can now customize their console itself with the PS5 Console Covers which are priced at PhP 3,090.

To complete the immersive gaming experience, the PULSE 3D Wireless Headset delivers with PS5 system’s Tempest 3D AudioTech and comes with dual noise-cancelling microphones.

It is available for PhP 5,590 in Midnight Black and Gray Camouflage.