Galaxy Z Fold 7: Panasonic S1 II and Samsung QS700F Unveiled

In the Engadget reviews department, we’ve been diligently engaged over the past few weeks, navigating through Prime Day promotions, the latest product launches, and a growing collection of devices that have landed on our desks. If you haven’t had the chance to catch up on our detailed testing recently, now is the perfect time to explore our comprehensive reviews on the latest cameras, laptops, phones, and soundbars listed below.

Discover the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 7: The Future of Foldable Phones

Samsung has implemented significant design enhancements in its newest flagship foldable phone, providing a much-needed update after a series of incremental models. Senior reviews writer Sam Rutherford noted that the company has “finally achieved foldable phone nirvana,” due to the overall reduction in size and thickness of the Z Fold 7. This makes the niche device more appealing to a wider audience. He elaborated, stating, “With this latest flagship foldable, Samsung has effectively eliminated one of the last hurdles preventing people from exploring this innovative category of smartphones: excessive dimensions and weight.”

Explore the Canon R50 V: The Ideal Budget Vlogging Camera

Canon/Engadget

The Canon EOS R50 V stands out as a solid budget-friendly vlogging camera, delivering excellent video quality. However, it does lack some key features when compared to its competitors.

Pros

• Good photo and video quality
• Fast and accurate autofocus
• Cooling fan allows extended shooting
• Decently fast photo shooting

Cons

• Rolling shutter distortion
• No in-body stabilization
• Lacks rivals’ vlogging-friendly features
• Mediocre battery life

$699 at Macy’s

For content creators who are embarking on their vlogging journey, it quickly becomes apparent that a dedicated camera is essential for producing superior-quality footage, surpassing what a smartphone can offer. Reporter Steve Dent highlighted that the Canon EOS R50 V excels in video production, primarily due to its rapid autofocus capabilities. Nevertheless, it falls short compared to its competitors in terms of performance and features. He remarked, “Canon’s R50 V is a commendable initial effort for a vlogging camera, excelling in important aspects like video quality and user-friendliness. However, its competitor, Sony’s ZV-E10 II, outshines it in almost every category, delivering even superior video quality, enhanced photo resolution, quicker autofocus, smoother electronic stabilization, and valuable features that the R50 V lacks — such as the product showcase.”

Experience the Samsung HW-QS700F: A Game-Changer in Soundbar Technology

Samsung

The QS700F represents a completely new model in a landscape of incremental updates for Samsung soundbars. Although it may not be flawless, its blend of design and features provides a compelling alternative to more expensive options.

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Pros

• Automatic orientation adjustment
• Crisp and balanced sound
• Refined design
• Easy setup

Cons

• 3.1.2-channel audio constrains movie sound
• Room calibration and other major features only work with Samsung TVs

$498 at Macy’s

Similar to the Z Fold series, Samsung has been consistently releasing iterative updates for its flagship soundbars. However, the company has introduced a completely new model for 2025 that automatically recognizes usage patterns and adapts the speaker output accordingly. This impressive feature, combined with its crisp audio quality, positions the QS700F as a strong competitor in the market despite its limited 3.1.2-channel audio configuration. As I observed, “The standout feature is its automatic orientation adjustment, which enhances user experience significantly. Additionally, the QS700F boasts an aesthetically pleasing design, which is not always the case with soundbars.”

Unleash Creativity with the Panasonic S1 II: The Ultimate Camera for Creators

Panasonic/Engadget

The S1 II is Panasonic’s premier camera for creators, offering features such as 6K RAW video and exceptional stabilization, although it comes with a higher price tag compared to its counterparts.

Pros

• Fast shooting speeds
• Great handling
• Excellent video quality
• Best-in-class stabilization
• Pro video features

Cons

• Poor battery life
• Expensive

$3,198 at Amazon

The S1 II may be recognized as Panasonic’s premier camera for content creators, but its high cost is a significant consideration. Steve’s evaluation of this model emphasizes its remarkable features, including 6K RAW video and industry-leading stabilization, which are crucial for serious creators. He noted, “Panasonic’s S1 II is a powerful hybrid camera, and if it wasn’t so pricey, it would be an obvious choice for creators. However, Nikon’s Z6 III nearly matches its video capabilities, excels in photography, and is priced at least $600 less, making it a more appealing recommendation for most users.”

Transform Your Workflow with the Dell 16 Plus 2-in-1: A Versatile Laptop Experience

Dell / Engadget

The redesigned Dell 16 Plus 2-in-1 is a capable laptop that features an adaptable design and an impressive optional mini LED screen. However, it tends to lack personality, which might be a drawback for some users.

Pros

• Solid build
• Vivid mini LED display
• Above-average battery life

Cons

• Lackluster touchpad
• Mediocre speakers
• Needs another USB-C port

$750 at Dell

The Dell 16 Plus 2-in-1 is notable as the company’s first consumer laptop to adopt its recently updated naming convention, accompanied by a fresh design. Sam noted that while this device performs reliably, especially with its optional LED display, it lacks a distinctive character. He explained, “It’s a completely functional machine, but it doesn’t offer any singular quality or feature that truly resonates with users, which also applies to its name.”