Qualcomm has introduced its first-ever CPU designed for Data Centers, the Dragonfly C1000, which leverages the Oryon architecture. Qualcomm Enters The Agentic AI CPU Race With Dragonfly C1000 Chip, Oryon-Based With Over 5 GHz Clocks, Over 250 Cores, & Aims To Achieve Single-Core Leadership One of the biggest announcements by Qualcomm today was its first release of a CPU for the data center segment, called the Dragonfly C1000. This is a chip purpose-built for Agentic AI & General-Purpose workloads, delivering best-in-class power efficiency and TCO. As per Qualcomm, the Dragonfly C1000 is based on a custom-designed Oryon core architecture that […]
Read full article at https://wccftech.com/qualcomm-single-core-leadership-first-server-cpu-dragonfly-c1000-250-cores-5-ghz-2028/
Ever wanted to take a scene from real life and shrink it into a snow globe-style model (minus the snow) to sit on your shelf, preserved forever?
Well, maybe not forever, but you get the idea, and it's possible to do this now thanks to a firm called Crysta.
As Dany Bittel explains on Patreon, Crysta offered to turn one of their 'Gaussian Splats' – of a bee – into a real-world representation of the insect courtesy of a 3D printer.
@Crysta_AI printed one of my bees as a present! pic.twitter.com/HENIVMXaMJJune 18, 2026
The result, as you can see in the post on X above, is pretty spectacular. But wait a minute, I hear you ask (probably): a Gaussian what-now? If you're not familiar with the concept of a Gaussian Splat, it's a 3D model of a real place or thing, built from video footage that you've filmed on your camera (or maybe a drone for more adventurous constructs).
We've previously covered how this works in an in-depth article where we used a cloud-based service called Splatica to make our Splat, and suffice it to say, it's a very cool process with impressive results.
Going a step further with the impressiveness, though, is taking that Gaussian Splat model and 3D printing it. (Crysta can also do this with an alternative process, Neural Radiance Fields, or NeRF).
How is the model turned (back) into a physical rendition? Bittel notes that: "The Gaussian splat is first voxelated, a bit like a Minecraft level. Each voxel has a mix of inks and can be more or less transparent. This then gets printed on [a] special 3D printer, layer by layer."
As Bittel observes, this is like a modern version of the fly trapped in amber, except it's an entirely artificial construct, built from an artificial model. I absolutely love the idea, and if you do too, you might be wondering how much it costs.
The truth is that it isn't cheap, as you might guess. You'll need to fork out for a Splatica subscription if you go the same way TechRadar did, which is quite pricey (or use an equivalent service or app).
The actual printing of the model by Crysta will run to something like $140 in the US for a 30mm cube, according to Bittel as a guide price (they got one for free, as a present, in case you were wondering). You can go up to a 300mm cube if you want an ornament with a real impact on your room (and likely your wallet, too).
The company ships the 3D printed models globally, although of course, it'll cost more to send outside of the US.
The Amazon Prime Day deals are well and truly up and running — and if you're looking for an action camera, I've found a genuinely fantastic deal.
Cheap action cameras are all over the market these days, and having used and reviewed a few of them, I'm somewhat wary — the image quality just tends to be so poor that they aren't even worth their two-digit price. When it comes to cameras, you're almost always better off going for an older model from a well-regarded name than a newer one from a budget line — and that's why I think this massive deal on the DJI Osmo Action 4 is one to snap up.
First reviewed by our Cameras Editor Timothy Coleman back in 2023, the Osmo Action 4 takes the classic GoPro-style form actor and crams in a 1/1.3-inch sensor that delivers excellent video quality. With comprehensive waterproofing to depths of 18m (no case needed), highly effective RockSteady image stabilization, and a brilliant magnetic mounting system for accessories, it's a comprehensively equipped action cam for capturing dynamic footage of your adventures — and it's able to go places you wouldn't dream of taking your phone or 'proper' camera.
Sure, it's not the best action cam on the market anymore — not while the DJI Osmo Action 6 and GoPro Hero 13 Black exist. But the price! The Prime Day savings on the DJI Osmo Action 4 put it at $169 in the US and £199 in the UK. To put this in context, when Tim first reviewed it, the Osmo Action 4 cost $399 / £379!
It's two generations old now, with the Action 5 Pro and Action 6 having arrived since, but the DJI Osmo Action 4 still shoots crisp 4K video and has excellent waterproofing. The real appeal to this 2023 model is its low price, which with Prime Day savings is down to less than half of its original asking price.View Deal
Savings are also excellent in the UK, with the Osmo Action 4 available for less than £160. This combo also includes a quick-release adapter mount, a charging cable, a lens hood and a protective frame.View Deal
Despite being a few years old, the Osmo Action 4 is still more than capable of producing imagery to the standard demanded by content creators in 2026. With a topline video resolution of 10-bit 4K video, it produces crisp and punchy footage, and offers a number of slow-mo options, as well as the option to shoot in the D-Log color profile to maximize dynamic range. This is everything a content creator could want, especially when you also factor in the punchy 10MP stills.
The later, pricier cameras are better in some areas — I've used the Osmo Action 6, and its low-light abilities are absolutely unreal. But most action camera footage is shot in bright daylight; they tend to be used for capturing POV footage of activities like surfing, cycling, snorkeling or skiing, and if you're not planning to do much shooting at night, you won't have a problem. And besides, as Tim found, the Osmo Action 4 isn't actually all that bad in low light — it's just not a patch on the cameras that have come along since.
The Osmo Action 4's simple UI means kids can use it without too much of a problem, making it a brilliant option for family holidays — this is a camera that won't mind being dropped, splashed, knocked or bumped.
It's also worth mentioning that if you're in the US, ongoing trade restrictions mean it can be difficult to get hold of newer DJI cameras like the Osmo Action 6, meaning an older model like the Action 4 could well be your best option.
But even if that's not an issue, at this price, I'd recommend the Osmo Action 4 to most people over the Osmo Action 6 — and I loved the Osmo Action 6. I took one on holiday to New York, and have it in a drawer beside me right now!
But this is just such good value for the level of functionality and image quality on offer. It's the perfect gateway for anyone thinking about dipping a toe into the world of action cameras — and it's a much, much better buy than a cheap-and-nasty action camera from a brand you've never heard of.
If you’re looking to buy an instant film camera, there are only two serious names in the game: Polaroid, and Fujifilm Instax. While some manufacturers like Canon and Kodak offer digital instant-print cameras that use techniques like dye-sublimation to create instant prints of digital images on specialist paper, it’s not the same. For the true alchemical magic of instant film, you Polaroid and Instax are the big hitters.
Polaroid is undoubtedly the better-known brand name due to its long history, dating back to the 1940s (though hitting major popularity in the 70s). It spent a few years in the wilderness following a bankruptcy in the early 2000s, before being purchased and revitalised in 2017 by an analog film collective called The Impossible Project. All the proper Polaroid cameras you can buy new today have been released since this renaissance.
Instax cameras may not have the historical cachet of Polaroids, but they are massively popular — Fujifilm reported last year that its Instax line has sold more than 100 million units since its inception in 1998. I don’t have similar sales data on post-revival Polaroid, but frankly, I don’t think it’s anywhere close.
Ultimately, there are compelling reasons to choose either brand. The Instax mini 12 is TR's pick as the best instant camera, and I can see why — it's a great option for the majority of users. But for me personally, it’s Polaroid all the way.
It’s not a question of print size, as both brands have similar offerings. Fujifilm Instax Wide film is about the same size as a Polaroid I-Type (or SX-70) print, just rectangular rather than square. Polaroid’s smaller ‘Go’ film produces prints of comparable dimensions to Instax mini.
What it’s all about is vibe. Scoff if you want, but come on — you’re shooting instant film. You’re not here for accurate colors or pitch-perfect sharpness, you’re here because you love the tangibility of holding a print in your hands, the transportative lo-fi look of a format that’s been around for half a century. It’s all vibe.
I’ve shot Polaroid and Instax prints side by side before for comparison. Once, while I was viewing them, my partner made an astute observation that I have since stolen and made my own: the Instax catches your eye first, but you end up liking the Polaroid more. Instax prints are bright and vivid, with naturalistic colors and a decent level of detail, especially the Wide format. They’re fun and kitschy.
But Polaroid images just have that inimitable retro glow that instantly transports me back in time. The softer, more muted color palette makes images less immediately striking, but more satisfying the longer I look at them. There’s a richness to them, a greater sense of depth and subtle tonality. If I were embarking on an artistic project with instant film, there’s no question which format I’d choose. It wouldn’t even be a decision.
Instax cameras are easier to use for sure — most are just point and shoot. If I were recommending an instant camera for a family, or for someone who isn’t an experienced photographer, I’d go with Instax. But for me, as someone who knows my way around a camera, the depth of control offered by the top-end Polaroid cameras leaves Instax in the dust.
Connect to the Polaroid app, which works very smoothly and is highly intuitive, and you can completely program in your settings, taking total control over your images. Want to try your hand at creating long exposures on instant film? It’s straightforward on a Polaroid Flip or Polaroid I-2, and impossible on an Instax Mini 99.
Sure, Polaroids aren’t perfect. The ongoing cost of I-Type film is a sore point, with packs of eight shots costing the same as a pack of 20 shots of Instax Wide or Mini. This sucks. No way to pretend it doesn’t. Buying in bulk can help a little, though honestly not a lot. At least the smaller Polaroid Go film is much cheaper, and I prefer it to Instax Mini. Again, its subtler look is less striking, but richer.
Do you agree? Let me know which is your preferred instant-film format in the poll above. And if you’re looking for an instant-film camera to buy, see my explainer on why the Polaroid Go Gen 2 is the best buy you can make this Prime Day and click on today's best deals where you live using the links below.
Instant photography takes on a very different form these days. It used to (and ultimately still does) mean a photo you take that’s instantly printed out on paper. Realistically, it means a photo you take on your smartphone in seconds — and it’s something we all take for granted. Just open the camera on a smartphone, point, shoot, done.
However, in many ways, the instant nature of smartphone photography afforded by the best camera phones can remove any creative nature of framing the perfect shot.
This is a thought I had recently at least when heading over to Europe on holiday, and one I wanted to amend by taking a Fujifilm Instax mini 11 in my carry on. In my mind I couldn’t have made a better choice.
Fortunately, the updated model, the mini 13, is on sale at Amazon for just AU$119 at Amazon for EOFY.
The very epitome of point-and-shoot photography, the Instax mini 13 couldn’t be easier to master. Press a button to pop out the lens barrel, frame your subject in the viewfinder and hit the shutter button. A couple of seconds later, your photo is printed on photo paper to hold onto forever. Best of all, this latest model features a self-timer for those all-important selfies.View Deal
I’ve long been on the fence about instant cameras and a separate camera from my phone in general. I’ve made the trip to Europe several times before to visit my family, and in the past I’ve taken my OM System OM-D E-M10 MKIV.
However, the last time I took it, I never used it (as much as I told myself I would), as the added bulk of carrying around lenses and the camera body itself just proved too much of an inconvenience for me. Considering my iPhone 15 Pro could take decent pictures within seconds, I didn’t feel the need to keep it close by.
This year that all changed. While my iPhone was still an undeniably useful companion on my recent trip — I took well over 1,000 photos — I knew this time that I wanted to capture more memorable pics that would actually get looked at again (this is a safe space; we can all admit we never actually look back at photos we take).
I’d never used an instant camera such as the Instax mini before, and I have to admit there was a very slight learning curve to adjust to a new way of taking photos. And that was half of the fun for me — because I knew I only had a finite number of sheets to print on. I had to make my pictures count!
Using the Instax mini meant I had to be more considerate when framing a shot, which fortunately was super simple using the viewfinder. It might look like a tiny window (because it is), but whatever I saw through it is what came out on paper.
And hey, there really was something magical and special about waiting for the image to develop — how would it look? Did the colours come out ok? Did anyone walk into the shot as I pressed the shutter?
When my partner and I returned home, we made a much more conscious effort to look at the pictures I’d taken to determine what we’d keep and what we’d get rid of. Of the photos we kept, we’re going to frame them at some point at home. We haven’t quite decided how just yet, but we know we will.
Considering I’ve only ever printed a handful of photos from my iPhone, I’d call that a win for Fujifilm. And at AU$119 for the mini 13, it’s a small price to pay for photos you’ll actually come back to.
I love cameras and Lego, so imagine by delight when I received the shiny new Lego Creator 3-in-1 Retro Camera for Christmas in 2023. The charming set, which features an SLR camera with moving parts and a film door, has lived on my desk at home ever since I completed the build on a wet winter day shortly after.
If you know someone with a soft spot cameras and Lego too (looking at you), I can heartily recommend the set, which has fallen in price to $15.99 at Amazon (was $19.99). Being part of the Creator 3 in 1 series, there are three builds to choose from; an SLR film camera, camcorder or TV set.
Honestly, the SLR build was already plenty enough for me without the other two options. There are neat touches including a film crank, a viewfinder to peek through, and a film door that opens and closes, plus film rolls that you can slot inside the camera.
• For more deals, check out our Amazon Prime Day live blog
I've also spotted another camera-themed set in the Prime Day sales; the Lego Ideas Polaroid OneStep SX-70 for $65.66 at Amazon (was $79.99). As someone who owns an original SX70 instant camera which dates back to the 1970s — which I got refurbished into fully working order by Retrospekt — it's a dream set that I have my eye on this week.
I'm sure the Polaroid SX70-themed set would put just as big a smile on my face as the real thing did, as they are so thoughtfully created sets now available for much less than the full price — and you can grab the best prices today through the links below.
Not in the US? I've included links to the best deals in your region, further below. Happy building!
As part of the 3-in-1 Lego series, there are three different possible builds in this retro camera set; SLR, camcorder and TV, all for just $15.99. View Deal
I actually own an original Polaroix SX70 instant camera, which dates back to the 1970s, so when I saw the SX70-themed Lego set it immediately made its way to my wishlist. Now with 18% off, I'm seriously tempted.View Deal
I'm constantly on the hunt for spare batteries for my Sony Alpha a6000 APS-C camera, and now I think I've found the perfect Amazon Prime Day deal on compatible batteries and chargers. The llano 2-Pack NP-FW50 Batteries and Fast 18W Dual Charger offers two batteries and a charging case is just $54.99 (was $69.99).
At 21% off, this sounds like a fantastic deal, but I also have a complicated history with my Sony cameras and the batteries I can use.
• Browse all early Prime Day deals at Amazon
It's been 16 years since I first started using a Sony Alpha. First, the NEX-5 (until the display died on the viewfinder-less body) and then the exquisite Sony Alpha a6000. Paired with my 200mm lens, they've been the perfect setup for my bird and astrophotography. But I've struggled with the batteries.
The Sony-brand Lithium-Ion rechargeable batteries that shipped with the NEX-5 worked with the a6000 I bought second-hand (new, the a6000 will run you almost $1,000), but eventually they stopped holding their charge, and I balked at the $70-per battery for the Sony-branded replacements. After all, I could easily find cheap knockoffs on Amazon (Prime Day or not) for as little as $26 for two (including a charge base!).
It's not unusual for me to wait until Amazon Prime Day to pick up a couple more replacements, and so that's how I stumbled on this llano deal. The two packs of batteries and a charging case that includes both a screen readout to tell you the charge level for each battery and a pair of SD card storage slots (not readers!) for just $54.99 is quite a deal.
Granted, the box offers no extra battery power, which means that if you want to charge the batteries, you do have to plug it in, but after that, you can just take the case with you. It's an efficient way to store and transport the batteries and to know at a glance, which one has enough charge for a day of use. The included batteries do, by the way, also support other compatible Sony cameras, including my old NEX-5, the NEX-7, A3000, A5000, A64000, along with other Sony camera models.
It's also worth noting that Ilano ships the same system in multiple versions for different batteries types, covering some of the best Canon, Fujifilm, Nikon and other Sony cameras (I've included shopping links to other Illano versions, further below).
This stylish Sony Alpha camera charging system ships with two batteries and a magnetically sealed case that charges two batteries at once and features an SD-card slot. It works with a wide array of Alpha cameras, including the A6000, A6400, a7r, and the a5100. Just know that while it's a nice, compact, and seemingly portable size, the device only charges the batteries if it's plugged in. At least you get a cool digital readout, and this is a great deal for two battieres and a charging bay.View Deal
The big caveat here is that these third party batteries are not usually as good or long-lasting as Sony originals. One thing to note is that while the llano batteries are listed as 9 volts, the Sony original is a 1,020mAh battery. In my experience with knock-off batteries that are often manufactured in China, they lose their ability to hold a full charge more quickly and dramatically than the Sony batteries.
Part of this has to do, I think, with the less sophisticated charging bases many of them ship with. In all fairness to llano, they usually don't look like this. They're not closable cases with LCD readouts, just one to three open bays where you drop in the batteries.
Ultimately, you will spend less and may have short-term relief for your Sony Alpha battery issues (nothing like having a pocket full of batteries on a long shoot), but you should not expect these batteries to perform long-term, like Sony originals, which, by the way, I have never seen included in Amazon Prime Day sales.
In a product crossover nobody expected, the Philippines-based brand Goojodoq has launched a 2-in-1 DJI Pocket-style vlogging camera with a fan, which costs around $25 / £20.
It's a device that I seriously need right now, and I can thank filmmaker Philip Bloom for bringing it to my attention. Not for its camera skills, mind you, but for its cooling properties — it's super hot in the UK as I write. Like, scorching hot.
As a fan, the device looks decent enough; a 100-speed brushless motor, 2,500mAh battery for a run time between 2-10 hours, plus USB-C charging.
I can't seriously recommend the device as a camera, however. Details are sparse, but it looks like there's Full HD 30p video recording, micro SD storage, a gimbal with 180-degree rotation, plus a 1.3-inch display.
And you can only laugh at the idea of using both camera and fan at the same time. Can you imagine it? Lights... camera... hummmmm.
Still, it's not like it's a pricey product, with the Philippine Peso pricing conversion working out at around $25 / £20.
• Browse the full Amazon Prime Day sale
If you're looking for a proper compact vlogging camera, I recommend you check out the DJI Osmo Pocket 3. It has recently been updated with the Pocket 4, but the older model is equally good in many regards, and it now costs much less in the Prime Day sales. I've included the best Pocket 3 deals below.
And if you're on the lookout for a decent quality fan, we're covering the best ways to stay cool in our beat the heat live blog. For all other deals, check out our Amazon Prime Day coverage.
The DJI Osmo Pocket 3 was recently replaced by the Osmo Pocket 4, but the latest model isn't currently available in the US, and we don't know if / when it will be. The Pocket 3 is now available for a record-low price of $378 in a base package, while other bundles with various accessories can be found via the same link.
Price check: $378 at AdoramaView Deal
Following the DJI ban, Xtra appeared, offering effectively the same quality product, for less. The Muse has similar specs to the Pocket 3, and can now be purchased for a record low $329 in a standard bundle.View Deal
There's a reason that the DJI Osmo Pocket 3 is a best-selling vlogging camera: its winning combination of gimbal-stabilized 4K video, compact design, ease of use, swivel monitor and pro audio mic pairing. That's everything a content creator on the go needs. Yes, there's the DJI Osmo Pocket 4 in the picture now, but it costs much more and is just an iterative update. Fork out a little extra, and you can get the Creator Combo for £372 which includes a DJI Mic and other accessories. View Deal
Despite being Insta360’s first vlogging camera with multiple Insta360 firsts, the Luna Ultra, overall, feels like a polished and bold product. Its triple chipset ably supports powerful features — especially the gimbal-stabilized 8K 30p video with 10-bit color depth and 4K 120p slow motion video recording, Log color profile, autonomous subject tracking autofocus and 32-bit float audio.
With dual 20mm f/1.8 and 60mm f/2.0 lenses, each with its own sensor, you truly are getting two cameras in one. And having enjoyed the Luna's ultra-wide and impressive 3x telephoto versatility for a month, it will be hard for me to go back to a single-lens compact vlogging camera.
The detachable remote module — which features the two-inch OLED touchscreen, main camera controls and built-in microphone — has, understandably, won many admirers. It's such a clever and well-implemented design feature that truly enhances the user experience, especially for solo vlogging.
Initially I had a few minor niggles navigating various camera settings, and it certainly paid dividends to spend time customizing the Luna Ultra to the way I like to shoot. It's also notably bulkier than DJI's Pocket 4 vlogging cameras, and pricier than single-lens alternatives.
Despite its infancy in this space, Insta360 has to its credit already produced crucial supporting accessories — including tripod and battery grips, plus the Insta360 Mic Pro wireless mic for top quality audio — meaning you can stick within the Insta360 ecosystem and enjoying the best possible user experience and compatibility, including full Bluetooth support.
Yes, DJI has been in the compact vlogging camera space for much longer and has refined its Pocket series with every iteration, but the Luna Ultra enters with a bang and is an impressive alternative.
"We're not going to compete on price" is what Insta360's co-founder Max Richter told me at a pre-launch event for the Luna Ultra, the company's first vlogging camera and DJI Osmo Pocket series rival.
And the Luna Ultra is much pricier than previous Pocket cameras. However, those were single-lens models and, like DJI's most recent Pockets, the single-lens Pocket 4 and dual-lens Pocket 4P, the Luna comes in two varieties: the single-lens Pro and the dual-lens Ultra.
Prices for the Ultra start at $769.99 / £649 / AU$1,229.99. That’s a fair whack more than the latest single-lens models, but you are truly getting two cameras in one device.
Insta360 sent me the Creator Bundle to review, which includes multiple extras such as the Mic Pro transmitter and battery grip and costs $969.99 / £829 / AU$1,549.99. I expect the dual-lens Osmo Pocket 4P to cost less than the Luna Ultra, but it won't be available in the US because of the DJI ban.
Both Luna models are available in black or white versions, and in a further variety of bundles that cater for various use cases; Standard, Essential, Endurance, VLOG, POV and Creator.
Type: | Compact video camera |
Lenses | 20mm f/1.8 and 60mm f/2.0 |
Sensors: | 1-inch and 1/1.3-inch |
Video: | 8K up to 30p / 4K up to 120p / FHD up to 240p |
Photo: | 9MP JPEG & RAW / 37MP UltraPhoto mode / panorama |
LCD: | 2-inch OLED, detachable |
Memory: | 47GB internal, 1x micro SD (up to 1TB) |
Battery | 1,550mAh, rated up to 4 hours of 1080p |
Dimensions | 2.1×6.7×1.5in / 52.4×169.9×38.5mm |
Weight: | 8.2 oz / 233g (black) |
The Luna Ultra’s form factor is familiar — it's a bit like the compact, stick-like design of DJI’s Pocket series. DJI isn’t happy about it, by the way; it has filed a lawsuit accusing Insta360 of patent violations (which Insta360 has responded to with a countersuit).
However, there are some key design differences. Lunas are slightly larger than Pocket models. Not majorly so, but the difference is clear when you hold them side by side as I did (albeit the dual-lens Ultra alongside the single-lens Pocket 4).
In practice, I didn’t really feel that the Luna’s extra weight and size negatively affected its handling — it’s easy in the hand for on-the-go vlogging. If you want the absolute smallest option, however, DJI is your best best. Even the dual-lens Pocket 4P is smaller.
There’s a good reason why the Luna cameras are bigger, and that’s for a super clever and unique feature: a detachable remote control, which is a module that packs the camera's main controls and rotatable two-inch OLED screen. Simply squeeze the red buttons on either side of the Luna, and the module pulls away from the body.
The module has a 20m transmission range and operates exactly the same way as if it’s on the camera, with the touch display offering a remote view, and the main camera controls on hand, including gimbal, zoom and record. Transmission range is impacted by the surroundings — I found the feed froze inside 15 meters when other people passed in front of me in a busy urban space — but I could see it happening on the screen in my hand and could rectify the situation.
What’s really neat is that the module has a built-in microphone, so you can easily check your frame and present to the camera. It’s certainly better than using the on-camera mic, though a wireless mic such as Insta360’s own Mic Pro with its customizable E Ink display is an even better pick for audiophiles. The camera has direct Bluetooth support for this mic and Insta360’s Mic Air. The video below gives an idea of what the module is like to use remotely.
I really appreciated how much easier it was to frame my shots with the controller module in hand. There’s also smart subject tracking and autofocus (more on this in the performance section), meaning the camera can track you as you move around, within the gimbal’s range, keeping you or your subject centered in the frame. Controlling the Luna using the module and tracking is like having your own cameraperson filming you, provided you can find a secure surface to rest the camera on or a support to fix it to.
On that note, the Luna Ultra can stand freely on flat surfaces, while the battery grip, which extends battery life plus the physical height of the camera, features tiny flip-out tripod feet for extra stability.
The battery grip is larger than the regular tripod grip and extends the battery life of the camera, which was already impressive being rated at up to four hours of 1080p filming. Not bad for a 1,550mAh unit that can be recharged to 80% in just 23 minutes.
At first I had a few niggles with the handling of the Luna Ultra from how it comes straight from the box. Beyond finding it physically clunkier than the Pocket 4, I needed to change various settings to taste, such as its behavior when rotating the two-inch touchscreen.
Overall, however, I can't find much fault with the Luna Ultra's design, which is seriously impressive for a first generation product.
The Luna Ultra is equipped with a triple chipset, comprising powerful 4nm and AI chips. As such, I never really experienced any performance issues, even shooting a lot of 8K video (though never for more than 10 minutes at a time).
The camera does get a little warm when using power-hungry features such as 8K video, and I did see a lag when switching from the 12x zoom back to 1x using the stepped zoom control on the touchscreen. However, those were my only issues.
In addition to regular 8K video, the Luna Ultra has a range of shooting modes, including; Slow Motion up to 240fps (in Full HD), Timelapse, TimeShift and Barrel Roll. I've included some slow motion clips in a sample video below.
Both Luna cameras accept a micro SD card up to 1TB, and include 47GB internal storage — less than DJI’s Osmo Pocket 4 / 4P, which have more than double the capacity. I shot plenty of video clips and photos directly onto the internal memory, and still had plenty of space left over — the maximum 120Mbps bitrates of video files are fairly low and don't take up too much memory.
And there’s plenty more for audiophiles, namely a decent wind guard for the camera’s internal four-mic array, plus 32-bit float audio. This pro-level setting avoids clipping, and is ideal for unpredictable and noisy environments, but for simpler audio edits, the 24-bit setting is probably your best bet.
The quality of the detachable module's built-in mic impressed me, though for the clearest pickup it's pretty fussy about how close you hold it and the angle it's pointed in.
Subject tracking is impressively sticky, though I did find that it switches to a new subject a little more easily than the DJI Pocket 4. In one situation, I was walking with the camera tracking me when other people came between me and the camera and tracking stopped.
In another scenario as I held a product up to the camera for it to focus on, the camera focused back on my face in the background all too keenly when I came back into view. In such a scenario, I think DJI's tracking performs better.
The Luna Ultra ups the ante in this camera category with 8K video — double the resolution of the Osmo Pocket 4, which shoots in 4K. It’ll shoot 8K up to 30fps, complete with Dolby Vision (aka HDR) and I-Log color profile.
This is the first Insta360 camera with Log, a flat color profile that pros like to use to maximize the color grading potential and for the most dynamic range possible from their camera, which in this case is up to 14 stops.
DJI has billed the Pocket 4P as having 17 stops dynamic range with its new D-Log2 profile — I look forward to comparing the footage of both cameras to see which is better once I have my hands on the Pocket. 4P.
Insta360 thinks its night mode is superior to DJI, with its PureVideo mode boosting dynamic range in 4K 60p videos. That’s another comparison test I’m looking forward to conducting. From the shots I've taken at night in this mode, detail looks impressively sharp, though of course no match for the quality of daytime footage.
Insta360’s Leica partnership goes beyond the Luna’s Leica-branded lenses and into various Leica color profiles. If you like the simplicity of attractive color profiles with no need for color correction, then the Luna has some great alternatives to Log.
I was impressed with the 3x telephoto camera — provided the subject isn't too far away, it's possible to throw depth of field for punchy portraits. I'm talking upper body shots with notable shallow depth of field.
The zoom of that lens can be further extended with a 6x 'lossless' zoom, a term that suggests you shouldn't notice a drop in image quality — I certainly didn't. I can't say the same for the 12x digital zoom setting, which looks a little more pixelated on close inspection. Still, that 12x zoom is a handy addition should you really need to zoom closer.
Honestly, having enjoyed the variety of two lenses in such a small camera, and how impressive the quality of the telephoto camera is (the sensor is bigger than the main sensor in most smartphones), I know I'll struggle if I have to go back to a single-lens compact vlogging camera.
Video is, of course, the primary use for the Luna Ultra, but it shoots decent-quality 9MP photos too, in JPEG and RAW format, albeit with just eight-bit color depth. I've included a couple of scenarios below, taking JPEG and RAW (DNG format) photos simultaneously at night and in daylight, with the 1x and 3x lenses.
I haven't edited the RAWs so you can see the kind of processing that takes place for JPEGs. All the photos are 9MP, but there is also an UltraPhoto mode which quadruples resolution to 37MP.
Attributes | Notes | Rating |
|---|---|---|
Price | Considering you get two cameras in one, a detachable touchscreen module and high-end video features, the Luna Ultra is decent value, but it does cost a lot more than single-lens alternatives and DJI almost always costs less | 4/5 |
Design | Slightly clunkier than the rival Osmo Pocket 4 / 4P, but the detachable control is well implemented and seriously useful | 4.5/5 |
Performance | Triple chipset ably supports high-end features, subject tracking works well and gimbal performance is decent | 4.5/5 |
Image and video quality | Twin camera versatility for different shots, sharp 8K footage, I Log and Leica color profiles. You'll struggle to find better image quality in this camera format, though I haven't directly compared footage with the Osmo Pocket 4P yet | 5/5 |
You want a versatile compact vlogging camera
Dual lenses are a revelation for this camera format. You're no longer restricted to ultra-wide shots, but dynamic portraiture and b-roll details are entirely possible.
You're a solo vlogger
The detachable remote with two-inch touchscreen, camera controls and built-in mic aid solo vlogging, in terms of the range of shots you can easily get, especially with subject tracking on board.
You want the smallest possible vlogging camera
The Luna Ultra is clunkier than the DJI Osmo Pocket 4 / 4P. Not hugely so, but DJI's cameras are even more pocketable.
You don't need two lenses
For me, having used the Luna Ultra, it's now hard to go back to a single-lens compact vlogging camera, but if you don't need that second telephoto camera, the single-lens Pocket 4 / Luna Pro alternatives cost much less.
DJI Osmo Pocket 4 / 4P
At the time of writing, I've only reviewed the single-lens DJI Osmo Pocket 4 which isn't a fair comparison especially with the dual-lens Pocket 4P on the horizon and the direct rival to the Luna Ultra. However, if you'd like to know how the cameras compare, check out my Luna Ultra vs Pocket 4 article.
Read our in-depth DJI Osmo Pocket 4 review
Fujifilm X-M5
If we're going on price, there beginner mirrorless cameras enter the picture, and for me the Fujifilm X-M5 is the best-equipped hybrid for the money. It has a bigger APS-C sensor, shoots 6K video recording (with Full HD vertical vlogging mode) and 26MP photos and it's a stunning camera. The drawback is that there's no in-body stabilization, so you'll probably want an additional gimbal to smooth out on-the-go clips.
Read our in-depth Fujifilm X-M5 review
I had early access to the Luna Ultra Creator Bundle ahead of its launch, and tested the kit out over the following weeks before writing this review. During this review period, I also had the single-lens DJI Osmo Pocket 4, meaning I was able to make comparisons.
The camera shoots decent still photos with RAW format editing flexibility, but my main focus video performance. I've shot horizontal and vertical vlogging-style videos in the various resolutions and frame rates available in each format, and experimented with various color profiles.
I've made sure to try out all of the accessories supplied to me and the various configurations of the detachable monitor. I've checked the camera and detachable monitor's audio quality, and how easily and reliable it pairs with an Insta360 Mic Pro wireless mic.
Earlier this week, I recommended a knock-out deal for the DJI Neo — the lowest price for a DJI drone I've ever seen. But if you want a better value drone, especially if you're keen to take control of it yourself and learn to fly, then the DJI Mini 4K is my top pick.
I bought a DJI Mini 4K myself a couple of years ago, and its record-low price right now for Prime Day is less than half of what I paid — the Mini 4K costs $209 at Amazon US / £169 at Amazon UK. And unlike the Neo, a controller is included in the base package.
There are various deals for other bundles too, with additional batteries and so on — I've included links to those deals below. I've also rounded up the best DJI deals for other beginner drones, so you're completely covered for your first drone.
• Browse the full Amazon Prime Day sale
If you're in the US and not sure about DJI given the current ban, read on for my advice.
The DJI Neo is the quickest drone to get started with, with its one-push take-off and automated subject tracking, but if you actually want to learn to fly, then the DJI Mini 4K is a better bet. I've reviewed the Mini 4K, and you can see my YouTube review below.
The base package costs a little more than the Neo, but a controller is included. If you want a controller with the Neo, the price shoots up.
For your money, you get decent aerial photography quality, thanks to a 3-axis gimbal camera, 4K video, and 12MP stills. Flight time is rated up to 31 minutes on a full charge, and there are a host of automated flight moves to quickly level up your aerial videos.
Of course, like all DJI Mini drones, the Mini 4K weighs less than 250g, making it officially a beginner drone that's not hit with the regulations that heavier, pro drones are.
If your budget stretches a little further, I recommend the recent DJI Lito X1, which gives an image quality step up and object sensing, meaning you're less likely to crash it. I've included the best deals for other beginner DJI drones below, but for me, the Mini 4K is the best value.
DJI's latest entry-level drone upgrades the Mini 2 SE with 4K video capture, whereas the Mini 2 SE only shoots in 2.7K. And with this Prime Day deal, it's available for a record-low price, beating the previous low of $239. This standard combo includes DJI's basic remote controller and a single battery for a 31-minute flight time. If you're looking for your first drone equipped with a camera, the Mini 4K is a great starting point. View Deal
For and extra $46 from the deal above, this Combo adds a second battery and a carry case. I'm not seeing a deal for the Fly More Combo at the time of writing. View Deal
I've been tracking DJI prices for the last three and a half years, and the current Mini 4K price is the lowest it has ever been. This package includes the drone, controller, and one battery. The camera is mounted to a three-axis gimbal for smooth 4K video capture, offers a handy 2x digital zoom, and boasts 31 minutes of flight time.
View Deal
The Fly More Combo is the ultimate package, with a carry case, three batteries and a charging hub in addition to the Mini 4K drone. View Deal
Usually I would all out recommend the Fly More Combos, but of any beginner drone, the autonomous Neo is possibly the one where you can get away with the single-battery, drone-only bundle.
On the flipside, if you'd like to try immersive FPV flight, the Neo can be purchased with goggles in the pricier Motion Fly Combo for $449 (was $529). View Deal
The DJI Neo is the easiest 4K drone you'll ever fly, and a fantastic gateway for beginners. You're not buying a Neo for its 12MP photo and 4K video quality, but its host of beginner-friendly features like one-tap takeoff and automatic return. Being just 135g, no registration is required, and, thanks to today's low price at Amazon, both the standalone drone and combo packages are available for very cheap indeed. This deal is for the Fly More bundle, which includes a controller, three batteries, and charging hub.
See our DJI Neo review for more detailsView Deal
Usually, I recommend Fly More Combos for first-time buyers because you get a controller, extra batteries, and a charging hub, but of any beginner drone, the autonomous Neo is possibly the one where you can get away with the single-battery, drone-only bundle.
There's a huge price drop for the Neo drone-only option, with more than £50 off the original price. By my reckoning, this is the lowest price ever in the UK for a DJI drone that shoots 4K video. View Deal
The DJI Neo is the easiest 4K drone you'll ever fly, with one-tap takeoff, subject tracking, and automatic return. Weighing just 135g, no registration is required, and, thanks to today's low price at Amazon, both the standalone drone and combo packages are available for well below the list price. This deal is for the Fly More bundle, which also includes a controller, three batteries, and a charging hub.
You're not buying a Neo for its 12MP photo and 4K video quality, but its ease of use, beginner-friendly features, and versatile flight options. If you want better quality aerial images, the Mini 4K, Lito X1, and Mini 5 Pro are better picks.
See our DJI Neo review for more detailsView Deal
If you have tried to buy one of the best portable SSDs recently, you have likely noticed a painful reality: storing photos and videos has become an incredibly expensive business. Over the past year, flash memory prices have skyrocketed, with some popular portable SSDs doubling or even tripling in cost. For photographers and videographers, who routinely generate many gigabytes of data on a single shoot, this price hike has turned a standard administrative task into a massive financial headache.
The underlying problem is a classic case of demand exceeding supply, which has unfortunately triggered a knock-on effect on pricesacross the entire industry. As high-speed Solid State Drives (SSD) became more costly and harder to source, creators naturally looked for alternatives, driving up the prices of traditional mechanical hard drives (HDDs) in the process. When you couple expensive backup drives with modern cameras that churn out massive file sizes, ignoring your storage workflow is no longer an option. Desperate times call for desperate measures, and it is time to change how we manage our data.
Fortunately, you don't need to empty your bank account to keep your portfolio safe. Surviving this storage crunch is not about buying the biggest, fastest drive on the market - it's about working smarter with the tools you already have. By adopting a strict digital diet, separating your fast working drives from your slower archival backups, and rethinking your camera settings before you fire the shutter, you can reduce your storage footprint without sacrificing your creative freedom.
In this guide, I share the exact strategies I use to navigate these rising costs. From sourcing high-capacity secondhand bargains safely to exploiting hidden compression settings in a camera's built-in menus. I cover why changing your shooting habits can save you terabytes of space in the long run, how to avoid the hidden costs of a hardware upgrade, and how to build a rock-solid backup system on a budget. And if you absolutely must buy new hardware, I've also rounded up the best flash storage deals available right now, so you can expand your setup for less.
HDD drives, also called mechanical Hard Disk Drives, use a spinning disk inside of the hard drive enclosure to store files. Because there’s a disk with a needle, a little bit like a vinyl player, it takes longer to locate and find your files and also write data to HDDs. Flash storage, such as the SSDs which we’ve seen explode in value over the past year, work much in the same way as your camera’s memory card and can locate files instantly and write much faster – but that comes with a higher price tag.
To keep costs down, the trick is to keep all of your archived content and finished projects on the more affordable HDDs as soon as you can. SDDs are great for working on live projects due to their speed, reliability and portability. You can use one of the best portable SSD drives or the flash hard drive on your laptop, so you’re not limited by the speed of an HDD when you’re working on live projects.
With SSDs going up in price this has had a knock on effect with the price of the best HDD drives being pushed up too. I’ve actually been buying up cheap second hand HDD drives from Facebook Marketplace where I can get much more gigabytes for my dollar. I must stress second-hand drives are a risky business and I always check them with a drive health checker first too, such as CrystalDiskInfo. I only use HDDs for backing up files, so if my second-hand drives ever fail, I at least have another copy somewhere else.
In years gone by I would say there’s not a lot of point going through drives and deleting your ‘duff’ shots or video. However, because we’ve seen some storage drives double, or even triple in price in just the past 12 months alone, desperate times call for desperate measures.
Currently, when I import a batch of photos I think carefully whether I really want to take up valuable space on my hard drives with shots that are never going to see the light of day. This has helped me be more self critical of my work, and motivated me to absolutely nail compositions, focus and exposure settings every time I'm out shooting.
Once a project has been delivered I might even go as far as to go through and delete images that were sub-par and didn’t make the grade. It’s also worth using a disk analyser tool such as WizTree to locate big files that are taking up a lot of hard drive space and aren’t being used so you can erase any large memory hogs.
Once your project is finished be sure to transfer the files from your pricey SSD to your cheaper HDD, to free up space for your next project. This saves you from having to buy a new expensive SSD drive when it gets full. Modern SSDs are incredibly durable and can withstand hundreds of terabytes of data being written over their lifespan, so there is no problem formatting them after you’ve transferred the contents to an HDD and backed them up properly.
The more detailed and information-packed your files are, the larger they will be. So it’s more important now than ever to carefully assess whether you should shoot a scene in RAW or compressed JPEG. The same goes for recording video too, do you really need 8K or the highest possible bit rates, or is that overkill?
I often shoot in 4K which gets downsampled to 1080p for a lot of my social media content. While shooting 4K provides extra editing options (especially cropping), it is quite a wasteful way of working. You could also switch from the H.264 codec to H.265 which compresses 4K to half the size, with no visible loss in quality.
If you’re shooting on a compact camera with built-in picture styles such as the Fujifilm X100VI then it may be preferable to shoot in JPEG to make full use of its various film effects. If you’re shooting a lot of RAW files with pre-capture then you may want to consider switching from RAW to a compressed RAW format to save space, instead. It all depends on your style of photography and finding out the compromize that works for you.
Before you jump into buying a new camera body you should also carefully assess the costs here, too. I’ve been lucky enough to get hands-on with the new Sony A7R VI, which produces mammoth 67MP files, at rates of up to 30 fps. This means memory cards and hard drives fill much more quickly than a camera with say 30MP, usually considered to be the ‘sweet spot’ for most general subjects.
Many of today's pro cameras need pricier CFexpress type memory cards to unlock their full performance potential and avoid any bottlenecks to the memory buffer, rather than cheap and cheerful SD cards. So even if you find a deal you're happy with for a new camera, there are hidden costs such as these pricier memory card types.
Another hidden cost of upgrading to a super high resolution camera is that your computer may struggle with the large stills and video. If that’s the case then you’re now not only forking out for a new camera, pricey CFexpress cards and hard drive storage, but you'll also need to budget for a new high-end laptop or computer that's capable of handing all of that data! The costs can rack up rather quickly.
I always follow the 3-2-1 method for a secure and robust way of backing up my files; that's backing up three times on at least two different types of media, with one copy kept off site.
For different types of media, this could be one HDD drive and another an SSD, or a DVD, memory stick or even cloud storage. The latter also helps tick the box for keeping one copy of your data off-site, too.
Cloud storage from reputable companies such as Backblaze is of course a great option, but you do have to pay a monthly subscription. For working professionals this is a solid reliable option worth the money.
However, for more casual photographers I’d recommend making full use of free cloud storage from companies like Google Drive (15GB), Microsoft OneDrive (5GB) and Apple iCloud (5GB). Of course, this isn’t a huge amount of free cloud storage, though if you're clever you can 'pool' your free storage together from different companies and it can add up to something substantial. That being said, even the 5GB free options should be more than enough to store backups of your favorite JPEG photos.
Portable SSD deals are hard to come by right now, but I've included the best deals I've found at the time of writing, with discounts on tried and tested Samsung and SanDisk models.
The Samsung T7 is a reliable SSD that I've been using for years. These drives come in a stylish metal case, typically available in different colors, making it easy to tell the difference between them. It has super fast transfer speeds of up to 1,050MB/s and features USB 3.2 Gen 2 with USB-C functionality, too. This deal is for the 1TB version. View Deal
This reliable drive from Sandisk won a Red Dot product design award in 2021 and is IP65 rated for dust and water resistance so you can rest assured your data is protected. This Prime Day deal gives you a saving of 13% and it comes with 256-bit AES hardware encryption and password protection to give you a little extra peace of mind.View Deal
Alvaro Carreras has been linked with a move away from Real Madrid during the summer transfer window.
The 23-year-old is a target for Chelsea, Arsenal and Manchester United. However, Chelsea could have an advantage over the other two clubs in the race for the defender.
Carreras has worked with Xabi Alonso, and the newly appointed Chelsea manager could play a key role in any potential move. According to Sports Boom, Real Madrid wants around €50 million for the defender. It remains to be seen whether Chelsea is prepared to break the Bank for him.
They have sanctioned Marc Cucurella’s departure to Real Madrid, and they need to replace him properly. The 23-year-old defender could be a solid long-term investment. He played 28 league matches for Real Madrid last season and recorded five goal contributions. There is no doubt he has the quality to play in the Premier League. He will look to help defensively and create opportunities going forward.
On the other hand, Arsenal are keeping tabs on the player. They are already well-stocked in the defensive unit, and it would be quite surprising if they decided to invest in the 23-year-old. They should look to sign a quality midfielder and a couple of quality attackers instead.
Finally, Manchester United’s interest in the defender is hardly a surprise. They need a long-term alternative to Luke Shaw, and the 23-year-old Spanish defender could be ideal for them. He is young enough to improve further, and he’s already competing at a high level.
The asking price could be a problem for the Premier League club, and it remains to be seen whether they can convince Real Madrid to be more reasonable with their demands.
With Cucurella joining the club, Carreras could be tempted to move on. He will be hoping to play regularly, and sitting on the bench at Real Madrid will not be a part of the plan.
The post Alonso could give Chelsea edge over Arsenal & Man United in €50m transfer race appeared first on CaughtOffside.
Chelsea could reportedly be exploring a major transfer raid on Xabi Alonso’s former club Real Madrid this summer.
According to Simon Phillips, the Blues have used recent talks with Real Madrid over Marc Cucurella’s sale to also ask about five of their players.
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Chelsea are seemingly keen on the likes of Alvaro Carreras, Arda Guler, Aurelien Tchouameni, Victor Valdepenas, and Dean Huijsen.
Huijsen was notably a target for Chelsea while he was at Bournemouth, while Carreras could be an interesting one to watch as he’s directly impacted by the arrival of another left-back in the form of Cucurella.
It’s early days yet for Chelsea in this transfer window, but the sale of Cucurella is unlikely to inspire much confidence.
This was an experienced and consistent performer in a generally struggling squad, and the speed at which the deal was done perhaps indicates that CFC didn’t even put up much of a fight to persuade him to stay, or to at the very least get a bigger fee from his sale.
Chelsea signed Cucurella for a £60m package in 2022, as per BBC Sport, and the fee reported by BBC Sport for the Spain international’s move to the Bernabeu is just under that at £51.8m.
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Even if Chelsea do replace Cucurella with Carreras, that’s a bit of a risk for a player who’d possibly end up looking like a downgrade rather than an upgrade.
Some of those other Madrid players could be exciting additions, particularly Tchouameni or Guler, but it remains to be seen how likely it is that players of that calibre would now move to Stamford Bridge.
Chelsea don’t have European football next season after finishing 10th in the Premier League, and the current project just doesn’t seem to be heading in a positive direction at all.
Perhaps Alonso’s presence can persuade some players to join, especially if they’ve already worked under him and have seen just how successful a coach he can be.
The post Report: Chelsea ask about five players from Xabi Alonso’s former club appeared first on CaughtOffside.
Chelsea are in need of a left-back after Marc Cucurella’s move to Real Madrid was confirmed on Monday, depositing €55m (£47.5m) plus €5m (£4.3m) in variables in their accounts. The solution could well be found at the Santiago Bernabeu.
One of the reasons that Chelsea were comfortable allowing Cucurella to leave is the development of Jorrel Hato, who they believe can step into the void left by the Spain international. The 27-year-old had also expressed a desire to return to Spain, and with two years left on his deal, it perhaps made sense for the Blues to cash in. Nevertheless, Hato is their only specialist at left-back now.
As a product of Cucurella arriving at Real Madrid, Los Blancos now have four left-backs on their books, with Fran Garcia, Ferland Mendy and Alvaro Carreras. The latter of course arrived only last summer for a fee of €50m from Benfica, and did so with the approval of Xabi Alonso, who was arriving as manager at the time too.
According to Diario AS, Chelsea are now considering a move for Carreras. Alonso is familiar with him, and Carreras would have no issues adapting to English football, having previously been at Manchester United and played on loan at Preston North End. They say that Los Blancos would be looking to be recover most of the fee they spent for him, and while Carreras is keen to stay, the door could be open to a move if Cucurella is a de facto starter.
Carreras’ first season in Spain more or less mirrored that of Alonso, starting off in fine fashion and becoming one of the early contenders for best signings in the first third of the year. As things started to go wrong, Carreras’ form nosedived though, and he finished the season out of the team, behind both Garcia and Mendy. He also had a run-in with Antonio Rudiger in training, reportedly being slapped by the ex-Chelsea centre-back.
The post Chelsea weighing up move for €50m La Liga defender who has worked with Xabi Alonso appeared first on CaughtOffside.
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