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Yeedi C12 Combo Review: The Ultimate Robotic Cleaner with a Handheld Vacuum and Mop

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The Yeedi C12 Combo is a cleaning companion designed to handle household messes effortlessly. Picture this: instead of rushing around the house, switching between the broom, dustpan, and mop, the C12 Combo quietly goes about its work, cleaning with precision like the silent, efficient partner it’s meant to be. You’ve got other things on your mind—getting that last-minute report done for work, or maybe just a rare few minutes of peace while the kids are occupied—but your floors? Those are taken care of.

PROS:


  • Best value for powerful, multi-functional home cleaning.

  • Long battery life ensures uninterrupted, comprehensive cleaning.

  • Anti-tangle technology minimizes maintenance hassle.

  • Effortlessly transitions between different floor types.

  • Compact design fits seamlessly into home spaces.

CONS:


  • Obstacle avoidance could be improved for more precise navigation.

  • Households with pets that shed will require frequent manual cleaning of the dustbin for optimal performance.

  • The robotic vacuum cleaner lacks integration with mopping feature.

RATINGS:

AESTHETICS
ERGONOMICS
PERFORMANCE
SUSTAINABILITY / REPAIRABILITY
VALUE FOR MONEY

EDITOR'S QUOTE:

Effortless cleaning, precise performance, flexibility, and unbeatable value—Yeedi C12 Combo makes every corner of your home spotless.
award-icon

Designer: Yeedi

Click Here to Buy Now: $649.99 $899 (28% off). Hurry, this deal ends soon!

Yeedi C12 Robotic Vacuum

There’s something comforting about knowing the dust is handled without bending down or wrestling with a clunky vacuum, especially when multitasking. The C12 Combo is ready for action, no questions asked. It tackles dog hair, crumbs from the kids’ latest snack attack, and more. It fits into your life without adding any more stress. You don’t have to worry about tangled hair, adjusting settings for different surfaces, or even remembering to empty the dustbin daily.

With this multi-functional whole house cleaning machine, you’re not left guessing how it works, either. It’s straightforward, and more importantly, it’s smart. It knows when to clean and how to do it. The real beauty? You’re still in control—but with much less effort.

Design: Where Function Meets Familiarity

At first glance, the Yeedi C12 Combo screams, ‘I’m all business’—focused entirely on getting the cleaning done. It’s sleek, unassuming, and fits right into your home, no matter if it’s a cozy apartment or, in my case, a sprawling 4,100-square-foot ranch home with a mix of flooring types—tile in the kitchen, 35-year-old original hardwood in the living areas, carpet in the bedrooms, and old tiles in the sunroom. It will take a smart robotic vacuum cleaner or a combination of a handheld and robotic one to keep this house clean.

But don’t let its minimalism fool you. The C12 Combo was built to sit effortlessly in a corner while delivering outstanding performance, with thoughtful design elements that enhance usability. The removable comb teeth on the ZeroTangle 2.0 floor brush make maintenance a breeze, and the Crevice Tool and 2-in-1 Dusting Brush make cleaning tight spaces and delicate surfaces simple and effective. For example, when you’re cooking dinner and knock over a jar of flour, instead of dragging out a full vacuum, you can grab the handheld from its dock and clean up the mess in seconds.

The cordless handheld vacuum component is lightweight and easy to maneuver. When you’re tired or your schedule is packed, you don’t want a clunky vacuum that’s heavy or hard to use. You want something you can pull out and get the job done quickly, with minimal hassle. The flexible design allows you to reach those pesky corners, under the couch, and even high spots like curtains without missing a beat.

The automated unit seamlessly transitions between different floor types—hardwood, carpet, and tiles—without manual adjustments. The integration of handheld and robotic components ensures you don’t need to swap out attachments constantly. It’s efficient and doesn’t waste your time, precisely what a vacuum should do.

Ergonomics: Cleaning Without the Backache

The C12 Combo prioritizes comfort and ease. No one likes the strain of bending over to switch vacuum settings or dealing with outlets as you move from room to room. The C12’s cordless design eliminates these hassles, allowing you to move freely throughout your home without interruption. The handheld vacuum is lightweight and easy to maneuver, with a comfortable handle that ensures no awkward angles or backaches.

The handheld component excels at quick clean-ups and reaching tricky spots. It fits snugly in your hand and is balanced perfectly for tasks like vacuuming crumbs after movie night or tackling cobwebs in high corners, making cleaning less of a burden.

Swapping between the handheld vacuum and the robot is as simple as docking the handheld back into its charging station, where it’s always ready for the next task. Instead of choosing between devices, I often multitask—using the handheld for focused cleaning while the robot cleaner works its way through the rest of the house. It’s so easy that cleaning starts feeling less like a chore and more like a quick, manageable task you can knock out without losing steam.

Performance: Power Meets Precision

The Yeedi C12 Combo doesn’t just look good—it delivers. This machine is powerful where it counts. The handheld vacuum delivers 95AW suction power (Air Watts), which represents how effectively it can pick up dirt and debris, ensuring even the dirt trapped deep within carpets doesn’t stand a chance. Combine that with the 10,000Pa suction power from the robot vacuum, and you’ve got a dynamic duo capable of handling even the messiest floors.

The real genius lies in the ZeroTangle 2.0 Technology. If you’ve ever fought with vacuum brushes clogged with hair, you’ll appreciate how the C12 handles this common issue. Its advanced anti-tangle design includes 45-degree V-shaped bristles, a high-speed cyclone to guide hair toward the center, and a removable comb to make cleaning easy. Be it pet hair, long human hair, or fibers from rugs, this feature keeps everything running smoothly without the hassle of constant brush cleaning. Plus, the LED headlight on the ZeroTangle floor brush helps ensure you don’t miss any dust or debris, even in dimly lit areas.

The Full-Path Self-Cleaning System ensures the HEPA filter stays clean, maintaining peak suction power without manual maintenance. This means consistently powerful performance over time.

TrueMapping Technology supports quick mapping and multi-floor map management and saves up to four maps, making it efficient for homes with multiple levels. It can quickly map 100 square meters in 8 minutes, plan the best cleaning route, and avoid obstacles like furniture and toys. The bottom-view sensor also recognizes steps to prevent falls, ensuring safe navigation on stairs.

The C12 Combo transitions effortlessly from one surface to another. Hardwood to carpet? No problem. It senses the change, adjusts suction power accordingly, and can even climb up to 0.8-inch thresholds, ensuring every inch of your home gets the right treatment. In my living room and bedroom, I have a couple of chairs with legs that most vacuums struggle to climb over, but the C12’s 0.8-inch (20mm) clearance is perfect for navigating these obstacles, making it an essential feature for my setup. I also appreciate having the option and flexibility to vacuum certain areas manually—let’s face it, anyone who has used a robotic vacuum cleaner knows that no matter how good the machine is, there will be missed spots.

The C12’s robot vacuum is equally impressive, working in sync with the handheld vacuum. It features a 5200 mAh battery that enables extended cleaning sessions, even for larger spaces. At the same time, the handheld vacuum is powered by 6 x 2000 mAh batteries, providing ample runtime for its cleaning modes. The robot vacuum, equipped with TrueMapping Technology, can avoid obstacles while covering every inch of the floor with a systematic cleaning path. It’s smart enough to return to its charging station once it’s done, ensuring it’s ready for the next session.

The mopping capability is exclusive to the handheld component of the Yeedi C12 Combo, which includes a detachable 11.5 oz (340 ml) water tank and an anti-tangle brush. This allows it to handle both wet and dry cleaning tasks effectively. The robot vacuum is designed for powerful dry cleaning with its suction capabilities and does not have a mopping function. The handheld vacuum has accessories like the Crevice Tool and 2-in-1 Dusting Brush, making it versatile for dry and wet cleaning tasks.

With the Crevice Tool and 2-in-1 Dusting Brush, the C12 Combo can precisely clean corners, curtains, and soft surfaces like sofas. These thoughtful accessories make the C12 an all-in-one solution for versatile cleaning throughout your home.

Sustainability: Cleaning With Less Waste

The C12 Combo focuses on efficiency in cleaning and reducing waste. The dustbin is bagless and reusable, meaning you’re not spending extra money on replacements or contributing to landfill waste with disposable bags. According to Yeedi’s internal data, this dustbin can last up to seven weeks without emptying, which is nearly two months of hassle-free cleaning.

Plus, the Full-Path Self-Cleaning System ensures the HEPA filter stays clean, maintaining peak suction power without manual filter cleaning. The washable HEPA filter also traps allergens, keeping your indoor air cleaner, and it’s easy to rinse and reuse. The C12 Combo reduces environmental impact and operating costs over time by focusing on long-lasting, reusable components.

Think about it—no more repeatedly buying dust bags or filters, no more hunting for replacements, or worrying about running out mid-clean. The C12’s design takes care of those pain points, making cleaning more sustainable, both for the planet and your wallet.

Value: What’s the Real Cost?

Here’s where the Yeedi C12 Combo shines: its effortless cleaning, precise performance, flexibility, and unbeatable value—Yeedi C12 Combo makes every corner of your home spotless. Instead of just a vacuum, the Yeedi C12 Combo offers a complete home-cleaning system that fits seamlessly into your routine. The robot vacuum takes care of daily maintenance, sweeping up dust, dirt, and debris while you’re at work or relaxing. Then, when you need to deep clean, the handheld and stick vacuums step in with powerful suction and versatile attachments to get into every nook and cranny.

The 1.5-liter auto-empty dustbin allows for hands-free operation for up to seven weeks, eliminating the hassle of frequent emptying. For the cost of one device, you’re getting a two-in-one system that tackles every type of mess. The C12 Combo ensures that each dollar spent is packed with performance, sustainability, and versatility.

With the 340ml water tank, the C12 Combo also provides advanced mopping functionality. It allows continuous wet mopping that handles stubborn stains and wet waste without a separate mop. You don’t need to vacuum before mopping—the C12 does both simultaneously.

Beyond cost savings, there’s the intangible value of saving time and energy. With the C12 Combo, you’re no longer chained to a cleaning routine that takes up half your Saturday. You can run the robot vacuum while taking care of other tasks and still get a deep clean when you need it.

Ready to Transform Your Cleaning Routine?

If you’re tired of spending your weekends with a vacuum in hand, the Yeedi C12 Combo is here to change that. With its advanced cleaning features, seamless transitions across surfaces, and flexible components for tackling every type of mess, it’s the perfect addition to any household looking for efficiency and simplicity. Let the C12 Combo handle the hard work so you can focus on enjoying your time at home. Experience a cleaner space with less hassle—make the switch today.

Click Here to Buy Now: $649.99 $899 (28% off). Hurry, this deal ends soon!

The post Yeedi C12 Combo Review: The Ultimate Robotic Cleaner with a Handheld Vacuum and Mop first appeared on Yanko Design.

Meet ComfortPure™: The Ultimate 3-in-1 Air Purifier, Heater, and Cooler

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We don’t give air purifiers enough credit, and it’s probably because “seeing is believing” is so ingrained into our belief system and unless you can see the impurities in the air you breathe, you just assume the air is clean… but here’s the truth – According to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), indoor air can be two to five times more polluted than outdoor air. Imagine breathing in a cocktail of pollutants every time you take a breath indoors—sounds alarming, right? Well, before you go rushing to buy just any air purifier, the folks at Blueair (a leader in air care solutions) have something that does the job of an air purifier but also doubles as a heater in the winters and an AC in the summers. Meet the ComfortPure™, the most powerful 3-in-1 air purifier that heats and cools while simultaneously cleansing your air up to 4x* better than the leading competitor.

Designer: Blueair

Click Here to Buy Now: $399.99 $499 (20% off using Coupon Code “Yanko”) Hurry, deal ends in 48 hours!

Designed in Stockholm, with a sleek silhouette that blends into any home decor, the ComfortPure™ cleverly packs three appliances in the space of one, giving you a device you can use all year round to keep your living environment clean and clutter-free. Sure, you can’t personally see ‘bad air’, but what the ComfortPure™ does is it keeps your habitat cozy and comfortable while turning bad or good air into an afterthought. It cleans the air for you, but also allows you to feel physically comfortable in a temperate room. Your body feels relaxed, your lungs get clean air, and your mind feels at peace as a direct result. Neat, no?

The so-called secret behind the ComfortPure’s 3-in-1 ability is Blueair’s TripleFlow technology, which ensures purified air is delivered no matter the mode—whether you’re simply using it to purify the air, purify and cool, or purify and heat. The heating element can output a maximum of 1500 watts, up to 100°F, ensuring that even during the coldest days, your space is both warm and clean. Equally, on those hotter days, the cooling fan operates at impressive air speeds of up to 1.7 m/s, ensuring a refreshing breeze while keeping your environment pollutant-free. 350-degree oscillation allows the ComfortPure™ to cover nearly a full spin on its vertical axis, allowing it to face everywhere for consistent heating or cooling. That’s significantly better than most coolers and heaters, which only throw air in one direction.

Given that we live in 2024, the ComfortPure™ is Wi-Fi connected and can be controlled and configured through the Blueair app – where users can monitor both indoor and outdoor air quality, schedule operation times, and even adjust display settings for the screen’s brightness. The integration with voice assistants such as Amazon Alexa and Google Assistant adds an extra layer of convenience, allowing users to adjust settings through simple voice commands. If you want to ditch the app, there’s also the option of operating the ComfortPure™ via a remote control, as well as directly using its on-device control panel.

The ComfortPure™ will be available in two models, catering to different room sizes and requirements. The smaller model T10i, available now, covers spaces from 175 to 840 square feet, while the larger T20i (available later this year) handles areas from 351 to 1,688 square feet. Both models boast a Clean Air Delivery Rate (CADR) of 113 CFM and 227 CFM respectively, indicating how efficiently the unit can filter the air. Built-in handles make the device easier to move from room to room. Additionally, the replaceable filter is easy to swap out when needed, and the filter lasts up to nine months before needing a replacement. For those conscious of both sound and energy use, there are even built-in energy-efficient modes that keep consumption at 25-35 watts even in Boosted Purification mode, ensuring that your power bill won’t skyrocket. A Night Mode also reduces the purifier’s sound to a steady, soft hum, while dimming the display so you can sleep with the purifier running all night long.

When it comes to actually using the appliance, the ComfortPure™ takes the guesswork out of the equation thanks to its advanced built-in sensors. The ComfortPure™ can intuitively adjust its settings based on your air quality and automatically adjusts its capabilities, intensifying when it detects an uptick in air pollution, and stabilizing when it achieves optimal air purity. It can also auto-adjust to reach a target temperature in the heating setting.

The ComfortPure™ is perfect for homes, rented apartments, or even small commercial spaces. After all, why buy separate purifiers, heaters, and fans when you can combine them all into one streamlined device? Smart connectivity means the ComfortPure™ can be easily controlled via an app or your phone’s assistant, while a fairly elegant and portable design means you can carry the ComfortPure™ around without having to worry about hiding the appliance (like you would with most HVACs)… and given that it purifies, cools, AND warms, I guess that’s a win-win-win!

Click Here to Buy Now: $399.99 $499 (20% off using Coupon Code “Yanko”) Hurry, deal ends in 48 hours!

The post Meet ComfortPure™: The Ultimate 3-in-1 Air Purifier, Heater, and Cooler first appeared on Yanko Design.

LEGO’s new Trolley and Backpack may not be Modular, but they’re Perfect for Travel!

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LEGO enthusiasts and travelers can now experience the joy of their favorite bricks on the go with LEGO’s latest innovation – the LEGO® Brick-Inspired Trolley and Backpack Set. This remarkable set is available at Costco and combines playful design with top-tier functionality, not to mention the fact that it looks so unique there’s no way anyone’s going to accidentally mistake it for their own on the airport luggage belt!

Designer: LEGO

Much like the iconic LEGO bricks that have been loved for generations, this set is built with durability in mind. The carry-on trolley is made from polypropylene, a high-quality material known for its strength and resilience, while the matching backpack is crafted from robust polyester. Together, they offer reinforced corners and secure closures that keep belongings safe, even during the most adventurous of journeys.

From the moment you see this set, it’s clear that LEGO’s signature creativity is at work. The trolley and backpack are available in bright, vibrant colors – red, blue, and yellow – evoking the playful essence of LEGO bricks. The design is not only visually exciting but also highly functional. The expandable trolley provides additional space for those last-minute outfits, and the backpack, with its handy trolley strap, can easily be attached for smooth rolling through airports or schools.

Inside the trolley, you’ll find sleek grey interiors that are not only modern but also practical. A zipped partition ensures that your belongings remain organized and intact, while an additional netted pocket over the partition allows for quick access to frequently needed items like travel documents or snacks.

The backpack truly sets itself apart with its unique design, featuring two zipped pockets on the front that resemble the ‘studs’ of a LEGO brick, adding a playful touch to the overall aesthetic. Keeping the brightness alive, the interior boasts vibrant yellow hues and includes two compartments specifically designed for laptops, iPads, and books. Whether for school or work, this backpack ensures your essentials are safely stored and easy to access.

Though initially designed with children in mind, this set is sure to awaken the inner child in any young adult who loves LEGO. The fun design is coupled with practical features such as water resistance and a TSA-approved lock for added security. Whether for a family vacation, school trip, or simply a fun weekend getaway, this set is perfect for every occasion.

For a great price of $149, this LEGO-inspired trolley and backpack set can be purchased at Costco as well as Home Depot. It’s the perfect investment for anyone seeking a mix of style, durability, and playful charm in their travel gear. With a set like this, every trip becomes an adventure, whether you’re young in age or just young at heart.

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This Retro iPhone Case turns it into a Makeshift Old Windows PC with Clippy and Internet Explorer

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Quite literally the opposite of Back to the Future, this iPhone 16 Pro case is more like “Forward to the Past”.

When you buy a phone, chances are you spring for a case immediately for one of two reasons – to either protect your phone, or to personalize it. However, Printables user Retron Print may have invented a new reason to add a case to your phone. Meet the iPhone Retro Case – a case that takes your cutting-edge smartphone and transforms it into a marvel of old-school technology. The two-part case sandwiches your phone in between, turning it into an old-timey CRT monitor (albeit with a functional main camera and dynamic island). To complement the case’s old-school design, Retron Print also equipped the phone with a retro home screen and custom icons and widgets. Although I’d personally love to have the iPhone stick to a Macintosh-based system, this one is unabashedly Windows, with a non-functional Clippy icon on the screen. Quite a downgrade from Siri and Apple Intelligence, no?

Designer: Retron Print

The beauty of the case is that it justifies every aspect of its retro design without compromise. Look at monitors from times of yore and they often had thick, chunky bezels. While most monitors came with a ‘chin’ which would either house a floppy disk reader or just control buttons, this retro case shifts the asymmetric chin to the side, with front-facing buttons that actually work. Built cleverly into the case’s mechanism are buttons that face forwards, but trigger the action and volume buttons on the side of the iPhone. The detailing’s prebuilt into the case’s design, and all you need to really do is 3D print and then assemble.

On the front, the case features an oval frame reminiscent of old CRT monitors, although it doesn’t obstruct the screen in any way. It’s a small but meaningful detail that gives the case a distinctly vintage vibe. Around the back, long, deep grooves evoke the look of classic desktop computers and also provide better grip. These thoughtful design elements ensure that while the case embraces nostalgia, it still offers the user a modern experience with improved functionality and tactile appeal. Meanwhile, speaker systems are accounted for too, with slots on the top and bottom that let you listen to audio from your iPhone.

When it comes to color options, Retron Print suggests using filament in shades like sandy beige, gray, or light brown to fully capture the retro essence. These muted tones are reminiscent of the classic electronics from decades past, enhancing the nostalgic appeal. This attention to detail extends to the print process itself. The case’s front and back panels are best printed on a textured print plate, adding an extra dimension to the overall look and feel, while the buttons should be printed on a smooth plate to maintain their tactile nature.

For those eager to bring a bit of retro flair to their iPhone, the case is available for iPhone 14 and iPhone 15 models. You can purchase the STL files for just $10 on Printables.com and print the case yourself, although this just includes the retro case’s 3D files and not the wallpaper and app icons. When it comes to color options, Retron Print suggests using filament in shades like sandy beige, gray, or light brown to fully capture the retro essence. These muted tones are reminiscent of the classic electronics from decades past, enhancing the nostalgic appeal.

However, commercial use of this model is restricted. To sell prints of this design, users must become a member of the Retron Print Commercial Club, ensuring that the creator, AndrzejG, receives credit and support for their work. This stipulation ensures that while the model is available for personal use, it remains protected against unauthorized distribution.

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This e-bike-towed wooden trailer is designed for your solo weekend adventure

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The freedom of camping is not limited to trailers towing behind an electric vehicle. E-bikes have the potential to redefine adventure for cyclists and we are growing to this idea of travelling sustainably. Traveling in the way most compatible way with nature – on an electric bike – with a camping unit in tow. An idea which is taken ahead by bicycle camper “i.woody,” designed to tag behind an e-bike and take one on a solo weekend adventure.

The new way of travelling and discovering what possible with bicycle camping, this wooden e-bike-towed trailer is designed and developed by Fahrrad-Campen (Bicycle camping) in Germany. The i.woody bicycle caravan can be rented, bought, or even built on your own as a trailer ready to sleep in when you’re tired dragging it behind your bike.

Designer: Fahrrad-Campen

i:woody, your sturdy home on wheels behind the e-bike is designed in a compact 81.9 x 37 x 61-inch form factor. It is waterproof and made entirely using lacquered plywood. The trailer home weighs anywhere between 64kg and 72kg (depending on amenities onboard) and features a wooden door and a plexiglass window for natural light.

It doesn’t necessarily have a lot of space inside but does feature a single bed and bench with an adjustable backrest. The bed is finished with a polyurethane foam mattress and 360 liters of storage in it. The i:woody has an insulation system in place and the interior is well-lit with LED lighting. The power needs of this wooden bicycle caravan is taken care of by the onboard battery pack though users have the option of ordering it with solar panels on the roof.

To facilitate the rider when at the campsite, the i:woody has four adjustable-height aluminum supports. It comes with a single-burner gas stove for the individual’s cooking requirements and the company also permits optional extras including washbasin and composting toilet, pull-out storage compartment on the outside, a skylight, and an additional window. The i:woody is available through Fahrrad-Campen website for a starting price of €5,900 (approximately $6,500).

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The 10 Best Sneakers from August

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August 2024 has brought a fresh wave of sneaker releases and collaborations that captivated athletes and collectors alike. From limited-edition retros to performance-driven designs, brands like Nike, Jordan, and New Balance pushed athletic style boundaries. Collaborations with boutique labels like A Ma Maniere highlighted the deepening connection between luxury fashion and sneaker culture, making August a pivotal month for sneaker enthusiasts. Whether it was a nod to classic colorways or innovative new materials, these releases captured the spirit of modern sneaker culture, blending heritage with contemporary flair.

1. Puma Porsche Design 50th Anniversary Edition

Celebrating half a century of luxury and style—Puma and Porsche Design come together for a sleek tribute.

Puma teamed up with Porsche Design to release a special edition sneaker celebrating the 50th anniversary of Porsche Design. Reflecting the luxurious and sporty aesthetics both brands are known for, this sneaker is crafted with high-quality materials and a minimalist design. Ideal for both Porsche enthusiasts and those looking for a sophisticated everyday shoe, this pair has earned my top spot.

I previously covered the Porsche 911 Turbo 50th anniversary and the Puma collaboration, noting how both products capture the spirit of Porsche’s rich design history while pushing the envelope forward. Much like the car, this sneaker bridges a storied past with modern luxury.

Design & Colors That Pop: The 50th Anniversary Edition features a minimalist black and silver colorway crafted with premium leather and subtle Porsche branding. The design emphasizes comfort, elegance, and hints of sporty details.

Why is it noteworthy?

This collaboration combines Puma’s athletic expertise with Porsche’s luxury craftsmanship to mark 50 years of Porsche Design. Understated yet elegant, it’s a versatile sneaker perfect for collectors.

Price & Availability: The retail price is $300. Limited quantities are available through Puma’s website and select luxury boutiques.

What We Love:

  • Sleek, minimalist design.
  • Premium materials.
  • Commemorative collaboration celebrating Porsche Design’s legacy.

Not So Great:

  • High price point.
  • Limited availability.

2. Air Jordan 6 “Olympic”

Get ready to relive the magic of Sydney 2000—Nike is back with the Air Jordan 6 ‘Olympic,’ a true blend of nostalgia and performance.

The Air Jordan 6 “Olympic” returns to honor its connection with the 2000 Sydney Olympics. Featuring a colorway of White, Varsity Red, and Midnight Navy, this sneaker is perfect for those looking for a mix of history and functionality. Its timeless design makes it a favorite among retro Jordan fans and new sneaker enthusiasts.

Design & Colors That Pop: The “Olympic” Air Jordan 6 features a classic colorway of White, Varsity Red, and Midnight Navy, reminiscent of the 2000 Sydney Olympics.

Why is it noteworthy?

The return of the “Olympic” Jordan 6 is significant for fans of retro releases. Its association with the Sydney Games gives it a nostalgic appeal while maintaining the performance aspects Jordan Brand is known for.

Price & Availability: The retail price is $200. It was released on August 3, 2024, through Nike and major retailers.

What We Love:

  • Iconic colorway with Olympic heritage.
  • It’s a nostalgic value for Jordan fans.
  • Solid performance features for basketball use.

Not So Great:

  • The limited release makes it hard to acquire.
  • The price may be higher due to its retro status.

3. Nike x Nina Chanel Abney Air Jordan 3

Get ready for an art gallery at your feet!

Nina Chanel Abney’s reimagining of the Air Jordan 3 turns the iconic sneaker into a vibrant canvas. This pair draws attention like no other, featuring a mix of textured suede, canvas, and bright splashes of orange. Abney’s contemporary artistic flair brings culture into sneaker fashion, merging streetwear with a bold art statement.

Design & Colors That Pop: A mixed-material upper with textured suede and canvas creates depth, while fuzzy branding and bright orange accents keep things fresh. A vivid green base adds even more visual punch.

Why is it noteworthy?

Nina Chanel Abney transforms the Air Jordan 3 into artwork that merges modern art and sneaker culture. This collaboration celebrates creativity and self-expression.

Price & Availability: Retail price: $225. Limited release available through Nike SNKRS and select boutiques.

What We Love:

  • Inventive mix of materials.
  • Bold artistic expression.
  • Unique branding that draws attention.

Not So Great:

  • It’s tough to get your hands on due to limited availability.
  • It’s more suited for style than for basketball action.

4. Adidas Originals x Bad Bunny Gazelle San Juan

Bad Bunny takes the iconic Gazelle on a ride through Puerto Rico—expect a sneaker that tells a story.

Bad Bunny and Adidas teamed up again to deliver an experimental take on the iconic Gazelle. This iteration celebrates Bad Bunny’s Puerto Rican heritage with elements that pay homage to San Juan. Twisted front panels, a stitched size tag on the exterior, and a unique colorway create a fresh take on a classic design, breaking away from conventional molds.

Design & Colors That Pop: Twisted front panels, stitched size tags, string laces, and a padded tongue. The colorway pays homage to San Juan with tasteful accents.

Why is it noteworthy?

Bad Bunny’s collaboration with Adidas redefines the Gazelle with fresh, unconventional elements. The combination of experimental details and cultural nods makes it a standout in sneaker fashion.

Price & Availability: The retail price is $150. It is available through Adidas and select retailers, with limited drops in some regions.

What We Love:

  • Unique twisted panel design.
  • Comfortable padded tongue.
  • Strong cultural reference to San Juan.

Not So Great:

  • Twisted design might not appeal to everyone.
  • Limited production run.

5. New Balance 1906L

When classic meets comfort, you get a sneaker ready for boardrooms and brunch.

The New Balance 1906L takes inspiration from classic loafer designs and merges them with a sneaker’s comfort and versatility. This hybrid model gained popularity on social media for casual outings or more dressed-up occasions due to its unique twist on sneaker and loafer styles.

Design & Colors That Pop: The New Balance 1906L combines a loafer aesthetic with a sneaker, featuring a classic yet formal design that suits casual and dressier occasions.

Why is it noteworthy?

The 1906L blends elements of traditional loafers with sneaker comfort, effortlessly bridging formal and casual wear. Its viral social media debut quickly made it a talking point.

Price & Availability: The retail price is $170. It was released globally through New Balance’s website and select fashion boutiques.

What We Love:

  • Hybrid design for versatility.
  • Viral popularity and social appeal.
  • Comfortable fit for extended wear.

Not So Great:

  • The loafer-sneaker hybrid might be too niche.
  • It is expensive compared to other New Balance models.

6. Air Jordan 4 RM “Driveway Grey” by Nigel Sylvester

Nigel Sylvester blends BMX style with Jordan Brand heritage in this eye-catching edition.

Nigel Sylvester brings his BMX-inspired vision to the Air Jordan 4 in the “Driveway Grey” colorway. Tonal anthracite with subtle University Red accents gives this pair a versatile yet bold look. Sylvester’s personal style and influence shine through, making it a must-have for fans of street culture and high-performance design.

Design & Colors That Pop: Tonal anthracite colorway with subtle University Red accents, combining the iconic Jordan 4 silhouette with BMX-inspired details.

Why is it noteworthy?

This sneaker is truly unique because of its connection to BMX athlete Nigel Sylvester, who brings personal style and influence. Its limited-edition nature and aesthetic make it a must-have for collectors.

Price & Availability: Retail price: $160. Available through Nike SNKRS and select retailers.

What We Love:

  • Nigel Sylvester’s personal touch.
  • Unique tonal colorway with bright accents.
  • Versatile for both casual wear and street style.

Not So Great:

  • Limited release, making it hard to acquire.
  • The price point may be higher due to exclusivity.

7. A Ma Maniere x Air Jordan 3 “While You Were Sleeping”

Luxury meets streetwear in this premium collaboration celebrating A Ma Maniere’s 10th anniversary.

Celebrating their 10th anniversary, A Ma Maniere and Jordan Brand collaborated to create the “While You Were Sleeping” Air Jordan 3. With a luxurious quilted lining and muted tones of Black, Flat Pewter, and Violet Ore, this sneaker is as sophisticated as it gets—a refined take on a classic silhouette.

Design & Colors That Pop: The mixed-material upper is in Black, Flat Pewter, and Violet Ore, with a quilted lining and embossed branding that adds a touch of luxury.

Why is it noteworthy?

A Ma Maniere’s signature style elevates the Jordan 3 to a new level, with luxury materials and muted colors that appeal to collectors and trendsetters alike.

Price & Availability: The retail price is $225. It is available through A Ma Maniere’s website and select Nike retailers.

What We Love:

  • Premium materials and luxurious design.
  • Quilted lining for added comfort.
  • It’s a subtle but stylish colorway.

Not So Great:

  • High retail price.
  • The limited release makes it challenging to find.

8. New Balance x Miu Miu 530 SL

New Balance and Miu Miu show us what happens when high fashion meets classic comfort.

The collaboration between New Balance and Miu Miu brings high fashion to a classic sneaker silhouette. The 530 SL gets upgraded with minimalist aesthetics and luxury materials, embodying Miu Miu’s signature style while keeping New Balance’s comfort in place.

Design & Colors That Pop: This collaboration elevates the classic New Balance 530 with a minimalist color palette and luxury materials reflecting Miu Miu’s touch.

Why is it noteworthy?

Miu Miu’s high-fashion take gives New Balance’s functional design a runway-worthy upgrade, blending style with everyday wearability.

Price & Availability: The retail price is $1,120. Limited quantities are available through the Miu Miu and New Balance websites.

What We Love:

  • High-fashion collaboration.
  • Elevated materials and craftsmanship.
  • Versatile minimalist design.

Not So Great:

  • Very high price point.
  • Limited availability.

9. Onitsuka Tiger Mexico 66 SD “Flame” Pack

Heritage meets heat in this flaming new edition from Onitsuka Tiger.

The Onitsuka Tiger Mexico 66 SD “Flame” Pack reimagines the iconic Mexico 66 silhouette with a contemporary twist. Released in August 2024, this updated version features premium leather and a striking flame motif, giving the iconic design a bold yet classic feel. With distinct colors and high-quality craftsmanship, it’s a nostalgic nod to Onitsuka’s heritage and a modern sneaker with eye-catching flair.

Design & Colors That Pop: The Mexico 66 SD “Flame” Pack has three distinct colorways: White, Black, and Yellow. Each showcases a flame motif for a dynamic element. Premium leather gives it a luxurious finish.

Why is it noteworthy?

The Mexico 66 SD “Flame” Pack’s heritage-inspired design and modern flair stand apart. Onitsuka Tiger’s emphasis on craftsmanship and bold motifs adds character to this release.

Price & Availability: The retail price is 27,500 JPY (~$189 USD). It is available through Onitsuka Tiger’s website and select retailers, and the “Yellow” colorway is set for a September release.

What We Love:

  • Premium leather construction.
  • The striking flame motif adds a unique touch.
  • Heritage design with modern updates.

Not So Great:

  • Limited availability.
  • The price may be high for casual buyers.

10. ASICS Gel-Kayano 30 Anniversary Edition

Celebrating three decades of innovation in running technology, the ASICS Gel-Kayano 30 Anniversary Edition delivers comfort and stability.

ASICS celebrates the 30-year legacy of the Gel-Kayano series with this special anniversary edition. The Gel-Kayano 30 incorporates FlyteFoam Blast+ Eco technology, offering enhanced cushioning, stability, and a smoother stride for runners. This model continues the heritage of delivering top-notch running performance while maintaining a stylish, modern design.

Design & Colors That Pop: The Gel-Kayano 30 Anniversary Edition features a breathable mesh upper with reinforced overlays for stability. The colorway includes a mix of soft grays with vibrant blue accents, providing a sleek yet dynamic appearance.

Why is it noteworthy?

The Gel-Kayano series has been a cornerstone of stability running shoes for decades, and this anniversary edition brings the latest technology into the mix. FlyteFoam Blast+ Eco provides a lightweight feel with eco-friendly materials, blending performance with sustainability.

Price & Availability: The retail price is $180. It is available globally through ASICS’ website and select sporting goods retailers.

What We Love:

  • Enhanced stability and cushioning.
  • Eco-friendly FlyteFoam technology.
  • Stylish anniversary design.

Not So Great:

  • High price point for casual runners.
  • Limited colorway options.

The post The 10 Best Sneakers from August first appeared on Yanko Design.

The Nothing Robot Vacuum (1) brings transparent tech to Smart Homes, along with a Glyph Interface

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If you think just about the Nothing.tech company ethos of bringing fun back to tech while still being design-driven and meaningful, that ethos can apply to pretty much any category of product. Sure, Nothing’s best known for their earbuds, phones, and even other accessories like the CMF Watch Pro… so here’s a proposition – what if we took Nothing’s ethos and brought it to other products that are a bit of a visual afterthought? The robot vacuum, for instance, is a fairly ‘boring’ looking product. Its job is literally to scuttle around the house cleaning up after your mess, so for the most part, its design is driven by function rather than expression. However, by bringing the robot vacuum under the Nothing design umbrella, Soo Hyun Lim and PDF HAUS have uplifted an otherwise dull-looking appliance into something that inherently feels more modern – because it borrows its design cues directly from Nothing’s modern-looking smartphones.

Designers: Soo Hyun Lim & PDF HAUS

Meet the Nothing Robot Vacuum (1), a tongue-in-cheek fan-made concept that ports Nothing’s DNA onto a familiar product template. Most robot vacuums are the same shape and size, so how could you possibly make things interesting? Well, LEDs and transparent covers, of course! The Robot Vacuum (1) has a circular profile that’s then outfitted with a transparent D-shaped outer shell, giving it an almost ‘preserved in glass’ kind of look. Sensors are where they belong (on the front as well as on the top), and although you can’t entirely make a robot vacuum transparent, what with all the dust and dirt, Hyun Lim does something clever by bringing the Glyph Interface to the product. What does the interface do? Well, it acts as a progress bar that lets you know how much cleaning’s left. Similarly, Glyph lights on the vacuum’s docking station light up to indicate charging process as well as letting you know the fill-status on the station’s dustbin, so you know when to throw the trash out every week or so.

With the aesthetic appeal of a fancy turntable, the Nothing Robot Vacuum (1) highlights a kind of Bauhaus-meets-Scandinavian minimalism that companies like Bang&Olufsen have come to showcase so well with their products. The vacuum looks classy, not appliance-y, which is quite a win because of how menial its task actually is. I mean, sure some appliances have boring jobs, like thermostats and dehumidifiers, but that’s no reason they should look ‘boring’, right? Well, the Nothing Robot Vacuum (1) rejects that stereotype.

As far as the design goes, the vacuum comes in 3 colors – black, white, and grey. Just from a top view, you instantly recognize the Nothing design template. The Glyph Interface at the 7 o’clock position, the transparent elements along the body, and a radial pattern on the upper half of the circular top that sort of resembles the coils in the wireless charging zone on the smartphones. It’s simple, yet cleverly executed.

Just like with the phones, you’ve got microtextures galore, along with text screen-printed onto the transparent elements like the upper guard (that prevents the sensors on top from being damaged), and the front transparent bumper that helps the robot vacuum easily maneuver into corners. Moreover, Hyun Lim mentions that the vacuum is constructed from recycled plastic and aluminum, which seems like a nice sustainability touch that goes well with the ‘clean’ image of the vacuum cleaner.

Although conceptual, Hyun Lim does give the robot vacuum a fair bit of detail. You’ve got a rotary broom on the front, along with a vibrating wet mop that helps get grease, grime, and other stains off your floor. The simple design is complemented by a simple UX – you can lift the lid to access the robot’s power button or open its water reservoir to replenish it between cleaning sessions. The sensors on the front and top help the vacuum navigate through the house, while an app on the phone gives you all the controls you need to set schedules, paths, no-go zones, and charging times. Plus, when the robot vacuum runs low on juice, it automatically goes and docks in its station, where the battery gets charged and the dust-tank gets cleaned.

The docking station is just as minimal as the vacuum itself, and serves as a place where your appliance goes to take a pit-stop. Once docked, the Robot Vacuum (1) charges its batteries, while performing a self-clean operation so it’s good to go for round 2. This means the mop head gets cleaned with water, and the dust/dirt tank gets disposed into the docking station’s larger ‘dustbin’. When the dustbin gets filled (after a couple of days of cleaning), all you need to do is empty the trash bag inside and replace it with a new one. That’s where the docking station’s Glyph lights come handy, letting you know your vacuum’s charging rate, along with the dustbin’s current capacity.

Although the Robot Vacuum (1) is purely conceptual at this point, it does prove that Nothing’s approach to redefining technology as ‘accessible fun’ is quite a winning and versatile one. The Robot Vacuum (1) doesn’t exist but there’s no reason it shouldn’t. Carl, you listening?

The post The Nothing Robot Vacuum (1) brings transparent tech to Smart Homes, along with a Glyph Interface first appeared on Yanko Design.

The Ultimate Tactical EDC Upgrade: Tekto’s A2 Badger OTF Knife Packs a Punch

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Named after the world’s most fearless animal, the Honey Badger, the A2 Badger from Tekto has quite a reputation to live up to… and let’s be honest, it does. It’s tiny yet ridiculously capable, with a 1.85-inch OTF blade on the front that deploys as soon as you hit the switch on the handle, and a glass-breaker on the end that makes the A2 Badger a formidable EDC literally from head to toe!

OTF knives are a little different from your standard folding blades; they’re spring-loaded switchblades that shoot straight out from the front of the handle. It’s a thrill to watch and even better when you realize just how functional that quick deployment can be. Whether you’re a tactical aficionado or just someone who appreciates a well-designed knife, the A2 Badger could be your new favorite.

Designer: Tekto

Click Here to Buy Now: $118.99 $139.99 (15% off, use coupon code “A2YANKO”). Hurry, deal ends in 48-hours! Also, get free FedEx 2 day shipping.

At first glance, you wouldn’t expect much from a knife that measures just 5.26 inches when open. But don’t let the size fool you. The A2 Badger packs a 1.85-inch tanto-style blade made from titanium-coated D2 steel. This isn’t your average pocket knife. The tanto blade’s angular tip is engineered for strength, perfect for piercing tasks or cutting through tough materials. And because it’s coated in titanium, the blade offers added durability and resistance to wear and tear. It’s the kind of material you want on your side when you’re deep into an outdoor adventure or facing a split-second emergency.

The A2 Badger button boasts an exceptional grip, ensuring maximum grip and control in any situation.

With its compact and lightweight design, the A2 Badger is both easy to store and transport, making it a popular choice among outdoor enthusiasts and those with limited space.

Featuring an oversized lanyard hole, this knife design accommodates a wider range of attachment options, including larger cords and paracords.

The A2 Badger doesn’t just stop at being sharp; it’s thoughtful in its design, too. The oversized lanyard hole is a small detail, but one that makes a big difference. You can easily thread larger cords or paracords through it, making the knife more accessible when you’re in challenging environments. Speaking of environments, the 6061 aluminum handle is lightweight yet durable, designed to withstand the kind of rugged conditions that would send a lesser knife packing. Plus, there’s a button lock mechanism in place that ensures the blade stays secure, whether you’re opening or closing it, so you can count on the knife when it matters most.

But what makes the A2 Badger stand out isn’t just its functionality—it’s how easily it fits into your life. At a featherlight 2.18 ounces and just 3.3 inches small when closed, this is Tekto’s smallest OTF knife (even tinier than their A5 Spry Mini). Yet, its size is deceptive; this little tool is nimble, quick to deploy, and engineered for ambidextrous use. A pocket clip can be attached on either side of the handle, making it perfect for left or right-handed users. Plus, at the end of the handle is a glass-breaker tip that can be used to shatter through even laminated and reinforced glass panels – perfect for an emergency escape (especially when paired with the D2 blade for cutting through seatbelts). It’s an ideal everyday carry tool, whether you’re heading into the great outdoors, running errands around town, or even protecting yourself in an emergency.

For those who like options, Tekto delivers. The A2 Badger comes in three grip colors—Black, Desert, and OD Green—so you can match it with your style or other gear. Whether you’re a seasoned outdoorsman, a first responder, or just someone who values great design, the A2 Badger proves that sometimes, the best things really do come in small packages.

Click Here to Buy Now: $118.99 $139.99 (15% off, use coupon code “A2YANKO”). Hurry, deal ends in 48-hours! Also, get free FedEx 2 day shipping.

The post The Ultimate Tactical EDC Upgrade: Tekto’s A2 Badger OTF Knife Packs a Punch first appeared on Yanko Design.

Cooler Master MasterHUB Controller Review: Complete Control Over Your Creative Pursuits

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PROS:


  • Innovative modular design puts users in control

  • Incredible flexibility in software customization

  • Future-proof design for extended functionality

CONS:


  • Essential stand is a separate purchase

  • Can't fit all 5 modules on the base

  • Aesthetics and texture feel a bit cheap

RATINGS:

AESTHETICS
ERGONOMICS
PERFORMANCE
SUSTAINABILITY / REPAIRABILITY
VALUE FOR MONEY

EDITOR'S QUOTE:

The Cooler Master MasterHUB's modular design redefines the control panel category and empowers creative professionals to design their own tools for a smoother and effortless workflow.

Generative AI is getting better at creating images and videos, but if you want professional-looking, not to mention correct, content, someone still has to put in the work. Software tools are also becoming more powerful and more sophisticated, but sometimes that creates even more complexity, with more features hidden behind incomprehensible sequences of keys. That’s not even considering how a single person might have to juggle different apps, each with their own set of functions. There are now tools like customizable keyboards or buttons that try to alleviate some of that pain, but there really isn’t a “one size fits all” solution. Instead, Cooler Master takes a different approach by providing not a single tool but a toolkit, allowing creators, streamers, gamers, and power users to build their own control panel that adjusts to their needs and workflow rather than forcing them to adapt to simply pushing buttons on a box. Given the novelty of this proposal, we took the MasterHUB for a spin, a roll, and a push to see if it can really take a load off creators’ already heavy shoulders.

Designer: Cooler Master

Aesthetics

If you judge the Cooler Master MasterHUB solely based on its appearance, you will probably be disappointed. Right out of the box, the different modules look pretty ordinary, even uninteresting. Sure, you have a variety of physical controls, more than competing brands that offer only programmable buttons with tiny displays, but the quality of the design and the material themselves are nothing to write home about.

The MasterHUB is a completely black affair, which seems to be the standard for control panels like this. It’s also mostly made of plastic, and not the premium kind either. Different areas of the modules have different textures, with some smooth and reflective, while others have a rougher matte surface. To be fair, this particular market isn’t exactly known for stylish designs and premium materials, so it’s in good company as well.

Cooler Master does make up for it with plenty of LED colors, whether on the display of the dial and the buttons or beneath some of the controls. You have a great degree of freedom when it comes to customizing the MasterHUB’s RGB lighting, except for one module that oddly doesn’t have any kind of lighting. Hopefully, it’s just some oversight, because there’s really no logical reason for this inconsistent design.

In the final analysis, the Cooler Master MasterHUB isn’t exactly something great to look at, but its true value lies in its performance. Unfortunately, it shouldn’t be a choice between form or function, when you can and should have both. And with something as big as the MasterHUB always in your field of vision, something more aesthetically pleasing could do wonders for your mind as well.

Ergonomics

The MasterHUB is already a league above other keyboard decks and controllers for offering a more tactile experience that goes beyond pressing buttons. Some actions, like scrubbing through timelines or changing the size of a brush, just feel more natural if you use a dial, a slider, or a roller instead of repeatedly mashing a single button. It isn’t just about intuitive controls either, as having your fingers actually manipulate something tangible adds a certain depth and enjoyment to the action.

At the same time, however, Cooler Master’s default package isn’t exactly ergonomic because it practically lies flat on your desk. There’s a low magnetic foot included in the box, but that barely lifts the controller at a comfortable angle. This can be especially problematic when you need to see the icons on the buttons or the display. There is a stand available, but it’s a separate purchase rather than a part of the entire ensemble. Depending on how you use the MasterHUB, it might not be a deal-breaker, but it’s still something that logically would be included or even built into the base.

Performance

The Cooler Master MasterHUB immediately sets itself apart from the likes of the Stream Deck and the Loupedeck with its modular design. While some brands and models might offer knobs in addition to buttons, it doesn’t stop there nor does it presume it knows best what creators need. Just like LEGO, it provides the building blocks for you to arrange your own setup, whether that means using two 15-key modules or having two Encoder dials.

The MasterHUB currently has six modules, starting with the innovative Base module that makes all of these possible. This unassuming flat box holds the pogo pins that connect the other modules to one another as well as magnets that keep them in place. Of course, you can set the base horizontally or vertically, adding another layer of customization.

In theory, you’re free to put any of the other modules in any position as long as they’re connected to those pins and held down by magnets. In practice, however, you’ll probably want to have the modules fit snugly inside the boundaries of the base, which means you have a limited number of arrangements considering the sizes and shapes of those modules. You can’t also fit all five other modules on the Base, so you’ll have to choose which ones you need for a given task.

The 15-key IPS module is probably going to be familiar to users of other control panels. Each key can be mapped to almost any action or combination of actions, a.k.a. macros, through the MasterHUB software. You can also select different icons or make your own to assign to that key. On an amusing note, pressing each key makes the icon shrink while it’s depressed and jumps back to its normal size once you release the button, adding a bit of visual feedback to the action.

There’s a 3-knob module you can use to adjust minor settings like lighting, opacity, and the like. For bigger or major adjustments, you might want to use the Econder with an IPS display module, which is just another way of calling a big dial with a circular screen in the middle. Just like with the buttons, the display can be customized with complete freedom.

The 5-Fader module is not a common sight on controllers like these, but it’s a standard device for many tools related to multimedia work. Perhaps the most unusual of the group is the 2-Roller module, which is perfect for scrolling or going through undo and redo histories quickly. These five pretty much offer everything you need to work with almost any creative suite, though you can’t fit them all at the same time, as mentioned earlier. You can, however, use as many of the same modules you can fit, as long as you buy those additional modules, of course.

If the modular hardware was already impressive, the MasterHUB software doesn’t disappoint either. It has almost limitless possibilities in how you can set up and control the device, almost to the point of being overwhelming and confusing. Some things, like visually dragging and dropping actions to the controls, are easy, but some require digging through layers of options. The user interface could do a bit of polish, and thankfully that’s easier to pull off than a hardware upgrade.

Even if it doesn’t have a head-turning design, the Cooler Master MasterHUB’s functionality is pretty mind-blowing. If you’re a creative who juggles multiple apps, a streamer who needs to have every control under their finger or a gamer who can’t afford the latency of a string of keyboard combos, the flexibility that this modular controller offers is unbeatable. The power it offers is both outstanding and overwhelming, so it’s kind of exciting what Cooler Master will cook up next for future modules and software improvements.

Sustainability

Despite its heft, the MasterHUB is thoroughly made of plastic. It might be resilient, but it’s not completely durable nor hardened against accidents. It’s also not a sustainable material, though Cooler Master thankfully uses post-consumer recycled or PCR plastics for some of its products, though it doesn’t indicate if the MasterHUB benefits from this program. It might also be good if it used other materials like rubber, both for protection and tactile properties, though it could still do so in future iterations.

The MasterHUB’s modular design does bring one indirect advantage over the likes of the Stream Deck, which is that it’s more future-proof. Cooler Master could put out revised and improved versions of the modules, expand the selection of modules or even add new features that it didn’t have at launch. In fact, there are DisplayPort ports on the Base module, teasing the possibility of new features. Of course, that will all depend on Cooler Master actually continuing to push the envelope in the foreseeable future.

Value

Cooler Master definitely struck a chord with creators, streamers, and gamers with the modular design of the MasterHUB. It offers not only flexibility but also power, putting users in complete control of their workflows. Even Logitech’s new MX Creative Console barely scratches the surface of what this control panel is capable of, especially when you consider the possibilities of future modules and features.

That said, the MasterHUB isn’t an inexpensive kit, which is probably to be expected considering how much more it offers compared to similar products. That’s why you’ll probably want to take advantage of discounts, like the current pre-order campaign that’s offering the basic kit, which includes only the 15-key IPS, 5-Fader, and 2-Roller modules, for only $299 instead of the $399 SRP. If you really want more flexibility, the Pro bundle adds the Encoder with IPS display and 3-Knob modules for $399, a rather steep $150 discount from the $549 SRP. Whichever bundle you pick, though, the stand will cost an additional $17 (SRP $19) if you want it.

Verdict

With great power comes great responsibility, or in this case, more keyboard shortcuts. Content creation shouldn’t be a dreadful and tiring task, and tools should be making people’s lives easier, not harder. As software becomes more sophisticated, the need for better and more efficient controls also increases. Rather than forcing users to shoehorn their workflows into a grid of LCD buttons and a few dials, the Cooler Master MasterHUB offers professionals and hobbyists the freedom to design their own tools and define their own strategies that let them focus on the most important task: creating their best content.

The post Cooler Master MasterHUB Controller Review: Complete Control Over Your Creative Pursuits first appeared on Yanko Design.

Glue gun concept gives the crafting tool a modern and ergonomic makeover

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Anyone who has done any kind of craft would have at one point or another used a glue gun. This tool simply melts solid glue and dispenses it through a nozzle, and its design hasn’t changed one bit over the decades. It’s a very simple tool that’s shaped like a toy gun, and while it does get the job done, it is inefficient, uncomfortable, and even unsafe. Perhaps it’s because it has fallen out of use that the glue gun hasn’t seen any action in the design department, something that this concept design tries to make up for by taking inspiration from an iconic houseware brand commonly associated with kitchen tools.

Designer: Sahitya Kashyap

Kitchen tools like whisks and tongs are probably the last things you’d expect to be given the beauty treatment, but that’s exactly what Joseph Joseph brought to the kitchen countertop. The brand’s products are famed not just for their utility but also for their simple charm, turning their use from a chore to a joy. Given the expectations of a glue gun, this tool definitely deserves such a treatment as well, but one that also redefines the basic shape that is at the heart of the glue gun’s woes.

There’s really no reason why it needs to be shaped like a gun anymore, at least not one that faithfully sticks to that form. Any L-shaped form with a trigger mechanism can easily be considered a gun, and our brains will fill in the rest. This concept goes through various iterations to achieve that design, until one that is distinctive and more interactive makes it to the top. It comes in the form of a tube that has been flattened on its long sides and is actually made of two parts connected at an angle. Thanks to that cut, twisting one end creates that angle that associates the form with a gun.

The design also resolves the problem of precision with a significantly smaller and thinner rod-shaped nozzle. Unlike the conical nozzle of today’s glue guns, this allows the tip to get closer to narrow spaces without the hot metal touching the surface. The design also adds an LED light to signal when the gun is ready to use, a feature that 3D printing pens had for years now. And when you’re done, simply twisting the gun back to its original straight form is enough to turn it off, and you don’t have to worry about how to put the still-hot gun down.

More than just the form, the aesthetics of the glue gun also changes significantly. Gone is the plain, unattractive, and cheap plastic, replaced by a smooth and glossy finish befitting of a Joseph Joseph product. The design does still leave a few problems to be solved, like how the glue stick is supposed to bend as well, but it’s an interesting thought experiment for a product that has barely been given the long-overdue attention it deserves.

The post Glue gun concept gives the crafting tool a modern and ergonomic makeover first appeared on Yanko Design.