As exciting as the prospect of 5G is, the HTC 5G Hub suffers for being the first of its kind. It's an excellent device, but the lack of 5G coverage and limited data allowances make it hard to justify the premium over a comparable 4G portable modem.
The iPhone 12 Pro is a lovely device that's also somewhat confused. The gap between the standard iPhone 12 and the iPhone 12 Pro is smaller than ever, and smartphone photography enthusiasts may want to opt for the iPhone 12 Pro Max instead. But even if the iPhone 12 Pro may be the middle child, it's still an excellent handset with top-tier performance and cameras.
The Galaxy S20 FE delivers most of its pricier siblings' best features at a more affordable price. While the phone is clearly makes compromises, none of them feel significant. Out of Samsung's 2020 flagships, the Galaxy S20 FE is the easiest to recommend.
The Razer Kishi is definitely one of the best smartphone game controllers around. It has a comfortable, portable design and offers lag-free input.
The Pixel 5 might not be your traditional flagship, but it helps extend Google's new value-driven modus operandi into the more premium space. While the Pixel 5 may in some ways be a Pixel 4a with a few extra flourishes, it's nonetheless one of the best bang for buck handsets around.
Samsung's second attempt at a foldable is a welcome evolution that builds on the fundamentals of the original while addressing almost every pain point. The $2,999 asking price means the Fold 2 still isn't a phone most people should consider, but if you can justify the purchase, it won't disappoint.
They might look a little weird, but Samsung's Galaxy Buds Live are damn good headphones.
The Samsung Galaxy A71 tells the story of smartphones in 2020. When mid-range phones are these good, why even consider the flagship models?
Despite a few premium trimmings, the LG Velvet fails to stand out from increasingly crowded competition in the upper midrange space. As refreshing as it is to see LG do something other than chase Apple and Samsung, the Velvet just doesn't do quite enough for an $899 phone.
The Mate XS is a stunning flex of Huawei's engineering prowess; it's a foldable device that works equally well as a phone and a tablet. However, a sky high price-tag, a lack of Google apps and services, and serious concerns around durability make it impossible to recommend.