Need-to-knows Apple has introduced the latest iteration of its most popular laptop, the MacBook Air, with the latest M5 chip inside. As with recent updates to the Air lineup, this isn’t a significant redesign. Instead, it’s an incremental upgrade centred around the new M5 chip, improved wireless connectivity, amongst some other AI features. If you’re considering buying one, here’s what it offers and how it fits into Apple’s broader Mac lineup. At a glance CategorySpecificationChipApple M5 chipCPU10-core (4 performance + 6 efficiency cores)GPU8-core (configurable to 10-core)Neural Engine16-coreMedia EngineH.264, HEVC, ProRes, ProRes RAW, AV1 decodeMemory16GB unified (configurable to 24GB or 32GB)Storage512GB…
Author: Max Bancroft
Max Bancroft
What I Do
Max Bancroft has been the Editorial Director at MarkEllisReviews.com for three years. In this role, Max is responsible for shaping the content strategy for the website, managing and writing product reviews, as well as developing buying guides that help consumers make informed decisions. Before joining the MarkEllisReviews team, Max worked as a freelance writer and completed a Master's degree in Geopolitics and Technology. His studies and previous work experience have equipped him with a unique perspective on how technology influences both individuals and the global landscape, enhancing his ability to analyze and review tech products in a well-rounded manner. As both an Android and Apple user, Max has no loyalties to a particular brand, but the M1 MacBook Pro is currently his most-used bit of tech. Being tall with long arms, Max can often be found working on his layups around the basketball courts of London or playing video games if it’s raining (which it often is in the UK).
Background
Max has authored over 100 reviews and buying guides during his time at MarkEllisReviews.com, covering a wide range of tech products, from wearables to laptops. His most notable work is a detailed review of Apple’s M1, M2 and M3 chips which has become a go-to resource. Max’s ability to break down complex information into easily digestible content makes him a key contributor to the site’s success and strikes to the core of the MarkEllisReviews ethos.
Qualifications
Max’s qualifications include an MA in Geopolitics and Technology, which enables him to approach tech reviews with a unique analytical lens. His background in both writing and technology has helped him develop a deep understanding of future tech trends, giving his reviews a broader context. Max is a trusted source for readers seeking reliable recommendations on the latest tech products.
Need-to-knows Apple has officially unveiled the iPhone 17e, expanding its more affordable “e” line with a device that brings several upgrades that range in significance over its predecessor. Positioned below the standard iPhone 17 models, the 17e focuses on delivering core performance and modern features without stepping into Pro territory. The 17e follows the 16e, which was released around the same time last year. Here’s a complete breakdown of what’s new and everything else you need to know! At a glance CategorySpecificationDesign & BuildAluminum frame, Ceramic Shield 2 front, glass back; Black, White, Soft PinkStorage256GB, 512GBSize & Weight146.7 × 71.5…
Need-to-knows Every year, we say how hard it is to review and talk about mid-range phones. The market is so crowded with great devices that making recommendations often hinges on very specific specs that don’t really matter to the people considering these phones. And it’s no different in 2026. The Vivo V70 is the latest mid-range phone to hit the shelves and, spoiler alert, it’s another one to file under the ‘very reasonable for the money’ name tag. To cut through the noise, I’ll be looking at whether the V70 does the things you care about well: battery, durability and…
The Samsung Galaxy S26 Ultra is now official, and whilst it hasn’t reinvented the wheel, there are some noteworthy changes. Sitting at the very top of the Galaxy S range, the Ultra continues Samsung’s long-established formula: the biggest display, the most capable camera system, integrated S Pen support and flagship-grade performance. If you’ve followed the Ultra line over the last few years, the overall direction will feel familiar. Samsung hasn’t radically redesigned the device or introduced a dramatic philosophical shift. Instead, the Galaxy S26 Ultra builds on what has become one of the most consistent and fully featured flagship platforms…
Need-to-knows Last year, I reviewed the Redmi Note 14 Pro and was suitably impressed by how much Xiaomi had packed into the device for what was a very low price. Obviously, some compromises stood out, like a hit-or-miss camera system outside of the main lens, but you can’t nitpick too much at this price point. This year, I’m taking a look at their slightly more premium model, the Redmi Note 15 Pro+, which is also a touch confusing. It starts at £399, which puts it at the top-end of the ‘budget’ price range, whilst creeping up into the mid-range tier.…
Need to knows Reviewing mechanical keyboards isn’t a particularly easy thing to do. After all, the main reason people buy them is because of how they feel to type on. But every once in a while, we get sent one that is worth covering. And that brings us to the Epomaker TH108 Pro, one of Epomaker’s most recent full-size, gasket-mounted keyboards. Epomaker is a well-established name in the mechanical keyboard world, often known for offering products at slightly lower prices than some of its competitors. The question is whether that value is worth taking advantage of if you want a…
Need-to-knows Apple has unveiled Apple Creator Studio, a new subscription service that combines several of its most well-known creative apps into a single monthly package. It includes pro-grade tools for video editing, music production, image creation, and productivity with a few AI-powered features thrown in. The service will launch on January 28th and will cost $12.99 per month or $129 per year, with a one-month free trial. A discounted rate of $2.99/month is available for students and educators. Here’s what’s included, what’s new, and what this means for creators, whether you’re making videos, music, presentations, or all of the above.…
It wouldn’t be CES without at least one enormous, ridiculous TV and Samsung has come out swinging. Revealed today at CES 2026 in Las Vegas, the new 130-inch Micro RGB TV is Samsung’s most advanced and largest display to date. It’s the first of its kind, and it’s designed to turn heads, not just for its size. Big and bold Samsung calls this the world’s first 130-inch Micro RGB TV, and while it’s unlikely to end up in living rooms any time soon, it’s hard to deny its impact. This is a display that doesn’t so much hang on a…
Need-to-knows The world of budget earbuds is often fraught with danger. You either get absolute rubbish or a surprising amount of quality that makes you wonder why anyone would ever spend more than $100. This was the context in which the Huawei Freebuds 7i, retailing for £79, landed on my desk. To impress for such little money, the Freebuds don’t need to do anything particularly impressive. You’d be happy if the audio quality was above average and they felt comfortable. But Huawei has managed to cram in noise cancelling, spatial audio, head tracking and a pass-through mode too. On paper,…
Need-to-knows Apple has updated the MacBook Pro. Again. This time, it’s the M5 chip making its debut, quietly slipped into the chassis of the 14-inch and 16-inch models. And now we’re faced with the classic conundrum: do you pick up the shiny new M5 MacBook Pro, or save some cash and opt for the only 1-year-old M4 version? If you’re sitting there, M1 MacBook Pro whirring away on your lap and wondering whether this is the time to upgrade, this guide is for you. Let’s get started. M5 MacBook Pro M4 MacBook Pro At a glance SpecM5 MacBook ProM4 MacBook…