I was a big fan of the OPPO Find N3, so when I heard rumors that OPPO might be exiting the foldable market, I was disappointed. That’s also why I was excited when I received the news that OPPO is indeed launching a new book-style foldable phone. What I liked about the Find N3 was that its camera performance didn’t feel like a compromise, something that was not always the case with many foldable phones when the Find N3 was released. While having a powerful imaging system on a foldable phone means dealing with a sizable camera bump, it was a trade-off I was happy to live with.

The foldable phone landscape varies significantly across regions. While US consumers are limited to Samsung, Google, and OnePlus, international markets enjoy a more diverse selection, with brands like Xiaomi, Vivo, Huawei, and others competing to deliver increasingly sophisticated foldable devices. Now, roughly 15 months after the Find N3’s debut, OPPO has unveiled the Find N5, pushing boundaries once again.

Designer: OPPO

The Find N5 brings a lot to the table. It’s the world’s thinnest book-style foldable, the first foldable powered by the Snapdragon 8 Elite, and the first foldable certified with IPX6, IPX8, and IPX9 ratings. As a longtime admirer of the Find N3 Fold, I approached the Find N5 with high expectations. Let’s see how it stacks up.

Aesthetics

We are at a time when flagship smartphones are moving away from large camera bumps, and the OPPO Find N5 makes a bold yet elegant statement. The camera island has been thoughtfully redesigned, achieving a 20% reduction in thickness compared to its predecessor while retaining OPPO’s distinctive Cosmos Ring design. This refined approach creates a more sophisticated profile that aligns with the phone’s premium positioning.

The Find N5’s design philosophy emphasizes clean lines and minimal ornamentation, yet manages to maintain visual interest through careful material selection and finish details. Available in two colorways, each variant offers a unique aesthetic appeal. The Cosmic Black variant features a sophisticated matte back panel that evokes a deep, mysterious appearance resembling frosted glass. Its matte gray frame creates a seamless, monolithic appearance that exudes understated luxury.

The Misty White variant, on the other hand, incorporates nano-lithography technology to create an ethereal, constantly shifting pattern across its back panel. This finish catches and plays with light in subtle ways, creating an almost ethereal effect as you move the device. The silver frame provides a striking contrast that highlights the phone’s premium construction while adding a touch of brightness to the overall design.

Both colorways share a similar textured back that delivers an exceptionally refined tactile experience. The surface treatment not only provides a pleasant silky touch but also helps minimize fingerprints and smudges, maintaining the phone’s pristine appearance during daily use.

Ergonomics

The Oppo Find N5 claims the title of the world’s thinnest book-style foldable, measuring just 4.21mm when unfolded and 8.93mm when folded. The phone’s dimensions are 160.87mm x 145.58mm x 4.21mm when unfolded, and 160.87mm x 74.42mm x 8.93mm when folded. The Find N5 boasts more than just thinness; it’s also very light, weighing only 229g. To put it in perspective, that is only 6.8mm thicker and 2g heavier than the iPhone 16 Pro Max.

Despite its slim profile, the device feels robust and well-engineered. Holding the folded Find N5 feels almost like holding a slab phone, and it fits comfortably in your palm or pocket. Oppo revisited almost every componentfrom the motherboard to the USB-C port, the hinge, and the frameto achieve this balance of thinness, lightness, and durability.

Another impressive feature of this phone is the crease, or rather, the lack of one. It’s barely noticeable both visually and tactically. You wouldn’t notice the crease unless you look at it from a certain angle. What’s even more remarkable is that you hardly feel it when you run your finger across it, both in terms of width and depth. The Find N3 already had a very subtle crease, but the Find N5 takes it to the next level, with a crease that is 10% narrower and 50% shallower. It has the most deceptive crease of any foldable phone I’ve ever tried.

The hinge feels consistent throughout its range of motion. Unlike the inconsistent hinge of the Samsung Galaxy Z Fold 6 or the more effort-demanding hinge of the Pixel Fold, opening and closing the N5 feels smooth and fluid. Unfortunately, the Find N5’s hinge isn’t as steady when the phone is opened at a wider angle. There were a few occasions when the phone slowly opened flat while I was watching a video with the phone at about a 95 to 100-degree angle.

Another thing to note is the position of the volume rocker: it’s too high. You’ll need to shift your palm or hold the phone with two hands to reach it. Also, when I hold the phone open, with my pinky finger supporting most of the weight, it digs into my pinky. But this probably has to do with the position of my pinky, as I tend to support the phone with the side of my pinky near the nail. If I support it with the pad of my pinky, it’s not an issue.

Performance

Display quality stands as one of the Find N5’s strongest features. The outer 6.62-inch OLED screen (2616 x 1140 resolution, 431 PPI) delivers impressive brightness up to 1600 nits outdoors. The inner 8.12-inch OLED display (2248 x 2480 resolution, 412 PPI) reaches 1400 nits of outdoor. Both screens feature adaptive 1-120Hz refresh rates with LTPO technology and support HDR10+ and Dolby Vision. The outer display’s 20.7:9 aspect ratio provides a familiar smartphone experience, while the inner screen’s 9.9:9 ratio creates an immersive viewing canvas. The transition between displays is seamless, enhancing the overall user experience.

The Find N5 features stereo speakers, but they are only located on the outer screen side. This design choice reduces the immersive experience, as you’ll notice the sound coming from just one side of the phone when watching content with the phone unfolded.

Powered by the Snapdragon 8 Elite chipset, the Find N5 handles multitasking and intensive workloads effortlessly, maintaining cool temperatures even under pressure. Find N5 runs ColorOS15.0.1 based on Android 15. The improved Boundless View makes multitasking, switching between apps, copy and paste easy and seamless. Find N5 further enhances productivity through various AI features, including AI Document for translation and summarization, and AI Call Summary for transcribing audio conversations.

One of the standout features is O+ Connect for Mac, which builds upon OPPO’s existing file transfer capabilities between OPPO devices and iOS and iPadOS. This new functionality enables remote Mac control through the Find N5, though it requires the O+ Connect application to be installed on your Mac. The device also supports the OPPO Pen, adding another layer of productivity and creativity. However, testing this feature wasn’t possible during the review period, as I was unable to acquire the OPPO Pen.

The Find N5’s imaging system builds upon OPPO and Hasselblad’s photography expertise, featuring a triple-camera array. The 50MP main camera shares the same Sony LYT-700 sensor (1/1.56-inch, f/1.89) with Optical Image Stabilization (OIS) as the Find X8, delivering excellent results in both daylight and low-light conditions. Images show impressive sharpness, accurate white balance, and strong dynamic range.

Accompanying the main sensor is a 50MP telephoto camera (1/2.75-inch sensor, f/2.7) with OIS, offering 3x optical zoom and 6x lossless zoom capabilities. While the camera technically supports up to 120x zoom, image quality deteriorates significantly beyond 6x. The telephoto lens doubles as a capable macro shooter with a 10cm focal length.

The 8MP ultra-wide camera (15mm-equivalent, 116-degree field-of-view, f/2.2) proves to be the system’s weak point, particularly in challenging lighting conditions. This limitation is especially disappointing given the foldable form factor’s unique advantage for selfie composition using the outer display as a viewfinder.

Video capabilities include 4K 60fps recording on both main and telephoto cameras, while the ultra-wide is limited to 4K 30fps. Camera switching during video recording is possible but lacks smoothness in transition.

OPPO has managed to pack an impressive 5600mAh battery into the Find N5’s slim frame, complemented by robust charging capabilities. The device supports 80W SuperVOOC wired charging and 50W AirVOOC wireless charging, ensuring quick power replenishment when needed. Battery performance is particularly noteworthy given the device’s form factor. The Find N5 easily handles a full day of heavy usage, including extended periods of content consumption on the larger inner display and intensive camera use. This endurance is especially impressive considering the power demands of the big inner screen.

Sustainability

One of the concerns many people have when it comes to foldable phones is durability. The hinge is the essential element of a foldable phone, forming the foundation of its structural integrity and ensuring its overall durability. The hinge of Find N5 is crafted from aerospace-standard Grad 5 titanium alloy and utilizes advanced 3D printing technology to achieve precision and strength. 

Just like the hinge, the inner screen is subjected to the physical stress of opening and closing. To address this, N5 uses what it calls a Dual Shielded Flexible Screen. This technology employs an ultra-thin stainless steel plate, ultra-thing glass, and an exclusive anti-shock film, making Find N5 70% more shock-resistant compared to the previous generation, according to Oppo.

The other worry that comes with a foldable phone is its vulnerability to water. Luckly Find N5 is IPX6, IPX8, and IPX9-rated, which means it can withstand submersion and high-pressure, high temperature. While it does not have an official rating for dust protection, protection against extreme water conditions gives you peace of mind whether you are caught in the rain or accidentally drop the phone into water.

As for the update, Find N5 will get 4 years of Android updates and 5 years of security updates. This is pretty much the industry standard when it comes to software support, so it’s reassuring that OPPO isn’t cutting corners here. Improving the phone’s longevity plays an important role in reducing its negative impact on the environment as time goes by.

Value

The OPPO Find N5 is a remarkable device, showcasing cutting-edge foldable smartphone technology. Its engineering achievementssuch as its thin profile, innovative hinge, and durabilityposition it as a premium option in the foldable space. You’d be hard-pressed to find such a potent laundry list of desirable bullet points in a single device.

While its retail price and market availability will play significant roles in determining its value, the combination of advanced features, productivity tools, and exceptional build quality makes the Find N5 a strong contender in the high-end foldable market. If you’re looking for a blend of portability, build quality, productivity, and camera performance, the Find N5 delivers a compelling package.

Verdict

The OPPO Find N5 represents a refined approach to foldable smartphone design, addressing many common issues associated with the form factor. OPPO has delivered a well-polished device that’s practical for everyday use, with features like its slim profile, near-invisible crease, and water resistance.

Its standout achievements include impressive camera performance, seamless display transitions, and a solid balance between portability and battery life. The integration of productivity features like O+ Connect for Mac and AI tools further elevates its utility.

The OPPO Find N5 stands out in the growing foldable market, offering an impressive package for those seeking a high-end, versatile, and reliable foldable smartphone. As foldables continue to mature, the Find N5 suggests that OPPO is leading the charge in refining this exciting technology.

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Except for the obviously portable kind, most lamps are designed to be left alone where you installed them, especially if they’re placed on walls or ceilings. Even desk lamps are rarely moved unless you’re redesigning your interior or replacing it with something else. You don’t even have any direct interaction with lamps these days, especially smart ones that you can either command with your voice or automate away completely.

In complete contrast, this lamp is almost designed to be played with. Yes, even for the variant that would hang from your ceiling. With a design that seems inspired by some fantasy clockwork contraption, this 3D printed Gear Cube Lamp brings more than just light but also an interactive experience that’s nothing short of a large fidget toy.

Designer: Ruven Bals

Playing with a lamp sounds a bit foolhardy. After all, there is heat as well as electricity involved. Even more worrisome if it’s a design that was just 3D printed and assembled on your own. And yet, that’s part of the adventure with this Gear Cube Lamp, which feels like a journey from start to finish, one that admittedly has a satisfying ending if you do reach the destination.

At first glance, the lamp looks simply like an elaborate cube with pieces whose internal edges are shaped like the tooth on a gear. Twist one corner, however, and all the other pieces turn in sync with each other. It’s reminiscent of the inner workings of a mechanical clock, or some steampunk contraption that threatens to unravel reality with each turn.

Making this elaborate interactive lamp is as much a puzzle as it is a work of art. You 3D print no less than 17 parts of different shapes and sizes, assembling them with the same precision as a model ship. You can opt to use a glueless construction, in which case you need to 3D print 24 additional connectors, or you can fall back to using glue when all else fails.

The end result might very well be worth all that effort, because you will have a lamp that is not only a light fixture but also, in some ways, a toy. The desk lamp variant definitely fits this better, as it can be within reach and easily lets you twist and turn the corners to get your mind wandering. At the very least, it’s an interesting decorative lamp whose form you can change every so often to add a bit of flavor to your space.

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Bandit9 Motors is well respected here at Yanko Design for their unique sense of going about for restomod conversions that have a piece of history associated with them. Kickstarting their exciting journey with motorbike restomods, the custom tuning shop moved onto the four wheels with the stunning Monaco electric car in pure black, and then later on the improved version of EVE Odyssey arrived.

Going back and forth between two-wheelers and four-wheelers alternatively, they’ve revealed the War Truck restomod under their coachbuilding division VAN DARYL Gallery. This will be their second project after the electric Batmobile under this sub-brand. The donor jeep for this build has a lot of history behind it, as it is one of the jeeps used by U.S. troops after the Vietnam War. Otherwise lying abandoned in obscurity and inevitable deterioration, the VAN DARYL War Truck (yes that’s what it is called) is infused with new life.

Designer: VAN DARYL

At heart the War Truck is an amalgam of intense military history with modern automotive aesthetics, reviving the tough vehicle into a restomod highlighted by a sci-fi treatment. Once VAN got the first jeep into their shop the truck was stripped down to see what old parts could still be relevant in the modern build. First, the team reinforced the custom-designed body with steel and aluminum frames to make it highly durable just like the Tesla Cybertruck. They also decided to increase the ground clearance by refitting the independent coil suspension. The front and rear drum brakes have been retained, encapsulated by the more modern steelie-inspired forged alloy wheels that have light aero-disc influence.

The boxy look is complemented by the rear-mounted full-spare tire housing, side-running exhausts, lightly flared fenders, bespoke steel bumper, retro-inspired LED headlights, and taillights that carry the same neo-retro design ethos. The edgy silhouettes are matched well by the rectangular windshield and mirrors, as well as the low-cut doors having wooden handles for the classic feel. According to  Villanueva “The War Truck isn’t just some homage or remake. To call it a ‘restoration’ would be an oversimplification. It is reimagined, rehabilitated, revived, and refined.”

On the inside, the jeep is drop-dead gorgeous with a purpose-built theme in pearl white. It comes with sports seats, modern switches to choose from various options, bespoke knobs, an infotainment display and an audio system. The steering and custom shift knob get the wooden bespoke treatment, while the widescreen instrument cluster panel is nothing short of impressive. The spacious and functional boot derives inspiration from yacht designs having teak-style wood deck trims. The whole interior can be customized as per the client’s needs with plenty of options to choose from.

Powering the guts of this vehicle is the battle-tested 4-cylinder, 2.3L engine but buyers can also opt for the powerful upgraded version, including one that is fully electric. The original version churns out 71hp and 128 ft-lbs of torque for a top speed of 100mph and a range of 300 miles per tank. In this configuration, the buyers can go for automatic or manual transmission variants. The handling and performance characteristics have been tuned to deliver maximum driving pleasure which makes the Wat Truck a force to reckon with. The vehicle hand-built on a made-to-order basis is available for order right away.

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The strength and structural integrity of concrete are derived from its inherent material properties, and also from the way it is shaped during construction. An innovative architecture student has developed an ingenious method for constructing robust and stable vaulted floors while significantly reducing the amount of concrete and steel traditionally required. This is achieved through a unique formwork design inspired by the art of origami.

The Unfold Form, conceived by Lotte Scheder-Bieschin, a doctoral architecture student at ETH Zurich in Switzerland, serves as a reusable framework. It is used to shape wet concrete until it solidifies into the desired vaulted floor structure. This unique approach optimizes material usage, while also showcasing a creative fusion of design and engineering principles.

Designer: Lotte Scheder-Bieschin

Employing advanced structural geometry, this technique forms vaulted floors while utilizing 60% less concrete and 90% less steel compared to conventional construction methods. This substantial reduction has the potential to significantly lower carbon emissions and decrease material waste in the building process. This is quite impressive considering that concrete production is responsible for approximately 7-8% of global CO2 emissions.

A vaulted floor features a curved, arch-like design, which typically offers greater strength than flat slab floors by utilizing compression to withstand loads. But, constructing such structures usually requires intricate formwork to achieve the curved shape and specialized skills for proper execution. This is where the Unfold Form comes to the rescue! Scheder-Bieschin’s innovative formwork uses strips of plywood combined with textile hinges to shape and mold concrete into vaulted floors. The formwork is lightweight, easy to assemble, and reusable. It doesn’t rely on petroleum-based materials like Styrofoam for production, making it a more sustainable option.

Crafted from flexible strips of plywood, this formwork can be expanded like a fan. By assembling four such units within a wooden frame, a sturdy mold is formed, ready to receive the direct pouring of concrete. The zigzag configuration enables the formwork— which weighs 52 lb (24 kg)—to support up to 1 ton of concrete. Once the concrete has cured, the formwork can be easily removed from beneath and reused for future projects.

Scheder-Bieschin utilized her expertise in bending-active structures, where the deformation of elastic materials provides stability without increasing weight, to design the formwork. The zigzag pattern she developed for the plywood strips enhances the strength of both the mold and the concrete it supports. Her method also includes an origami-inspired technique known as curved-crease folding to further enhance the formwork’s rigidity.

“The Unfold Form formwork can be produced and assembled without specialized knowledge or high-tech equipment,” said Scheder-Bieschin. “The only things needed in addition to the materials are a template for the shape and a stapler.” That makes it a viable option for construction projects in developing countries that need to erect buildings quickly and cheaply.

Currently, two concrete structures have been constructed using the Unfold Form. The first structure is a vaulted floor measuring 9.8 feet by 5.9 feet (3 meters by 1.8 meters) at ETH Zurich’s Hönggerberg campus. The second structure was built in Cape Town, South Africa, using bio-concrete infused with shredded invasive vegetation from the local area.

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There is no shortage of “retro mini” consoles today that try to relive the glorious past of gaming. But while it’s definitely fun to walk down memory lane once in a while, many of these designs reveal the limitations of simply trying to repeat the past. Powerful as they might be, these devices are restricted to simply running a select number of games, not even the whole library of titles available to the original console they’re trying to imitate.

Conversely, you can always dress up some single-board computer or SBC such as the Raspberry Pi and get the same feeling but with a bit more flexibility. Despite looking like a tiny gaming console, you can use it for more than just playing around. That’s the experience that this Nintendo-inspired case tries to bring to the Raspberry Pi 5, but it thankfully does more than just put the small computer inside a candy-colored chassis.

Designer: RetroFlag

Although probably less loved than the quirky-looking GameCube that it followed, the Nintendo 64 still had a notable existence in video game history as the last major home console to use a cartridge when everyone was already moving to optical discs. It may also be one of the last to adopt rather odd shapes for both the console itself as well as its controller, going outside the boundaries of the simple box that would define home consoles for the next decade or so. It’s no surprise, then, that some people have had a fondness for the N64, and those might find comfort in this RPi recreation.

The 64Pi, as this case is so subtly named, mimics the general shape of the Nintendo 64 console, a low box with odd protruding circles on its front corners. But unlike the monochromatic color scheme of the larger originals, this case splits the design between a white bottom and a translucent turquoise top. This makes it look more like the candy-inspired iMac G3 that coincidentally launched around the N64’s lifetime. Given its diminutive size, this motif gives the 64Pi an even cuter appearance that really drives home the fact that it’s a machine meant for gaming.

It isn’t just a cover-up, though, and neither is it a simple Raspberry Pi case. It actually has a few features that go above and beyond trying to recreate a gaming console experience, such as routing two of the four USB ports to the front, right where the game controllers would normally connect. It also has special buttons for Power and Reset, the latter of which could be programmed to any action on the RPi. Finally, it also adds a heat sink and a cooling fan, just in case you really want to push the small computer’s capabilities to the limit.

As adorable and as functional as the 64Pi case might be, it does have a raise a few concerns. The cramped space, for example, might not actually be good for both performance as well as the structural integrity of the board itself. It also makes the GPIO ports unreachable, which would have been a missed opportunity for implementing a cartridge-like system that would make the 64Pi even more flexible and desirable.

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When looking at options for furniture for their new or current house, people either look at the design and aesthetics while some prefer the more comfortable ones over the ones that would look good in their space. But of course there are those that can probably offer you both so wouldn’t you want to have something that looks good in your space and also is pretty comfortable that you’d want to use it for a long time?

Designer: Mudu Studios

SOLO is a concept for a furniture collection that could offer both comfort and design. The focal point of this collection is the plush upholstery that is seemingly placed on a pedestal because of the materials used. The collection includes an armchair, sofa, and a pouf, all of which feature a soft aesthetic, in contrast to the metal or natural veneer of the base which acts like a pedestal to showcase the luxuriously soft upholstery and textile. This contrast highlights the plushness of the seating while adding a touch of modern sophistication. Accent seams further enhance the visual appeal, adding subtle detailing and contributing to the overall character of the collection.

The collection’s expressive design language allows it to seamlessly integrate into a variety of interior styles, from contemporary minimalist spaces to more eclectic settings. The varied color palette offers a range of options to suit individual preferences and complement existing décor. A standout feature of the SOLO armchair is its innovative twist mechanism. This thoughtful addition enhances comfort and allows users to easily find their perfect lounging position, further emphasizing the collection’s focus on relaxation and well-being. This isn’t just about aesthetics; it’s about creating a harmonious balance between form and function. The elevated design not only adds visual interest but also contributes to the overall comfort by providing optimal support. The combination of soft textiles, a sturdy base, and thoughtful features like the twist mechanism in the armchair make SOLO a truly exceptional collection.

Alas, the SOLO collection is still a concept and they are currently looking for a manufacturer. But to have something that is visually attractive and seemingly comfortable should make it easy for them to eventually find someone that can make this design a reality. I am now currently dreaming of taking a nap on that sofa or reading a book for hours on that armchair or sitting on that pouf while chatting and drinking with friends.

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Using a computer these days sometimes feels like a job in itself. There are so many external devices we need to connect but too few ports to plug them into. And there’s the juggling of different apps, workflows, and processes that make even our keyboards feel inadequate to handle. Our computers might be getting more powerful, but they are also getting more complex as well.

Enter the Memdock Gen 2, a revolutionary dock that will help you regain control and level up your productivity. With a 7-in-1 hub, the Memdock G2 delivers all the ports you need to access data, charge your devices, and extend your workspace with an external monitor to get your job done. And with a customizable 7-key keyboard and a dial, you have the power and the flexibility to create your own workflows and shortcuts to maximize your time and spend it on the more important things in life outside of work.

Designer: Memdock

Click Here to Buy Now: $109 $225 ($116 off). Hurry, only 112/500 left! Raised over $57,000.

Right off the bat, you know that the Memdock G2 isn’t your average hub or dock. Instead of a plain old box with ports around it, this innovative device sports not one, not even two, but seven keys and a dial on top. This is the Memdock G2’s special sauce, delivering a powerful experience that you can customize to fit your needs and your working style.

The dial offers a satisfying and tactile way of smoothly controlling the volume, something that music and movie lovers will definitely appreciate. The key right below it controls HDMI output, allowing you to plug in a second monitor to double your viewing space and double your productivity. All seven keys feature Cherry MX Red Switches, a favorite among gamers and typists for their smooth, responsive keystrokes.

As for the six other keys, what they do is truly up to you. You have eight custom actions to choose from, ranging from assigning a custom key, controlling media playback, or creating macros to automate your workflow. The dock’s plug-and-play feature makes it a joy to use. Simply plug the Memdock G2 into a Windows computer and watch the settings interface pop up, giving you full access to the keyboard’s functions. Mac users might have to wait a bit for key customization to land.

Of course, the Memdock G2 isn’t just a macro keyboard device. The 7-in-1 hub functionality helps upgrade your desktop or laptop from a computer to a battle station. A USB-C 3.1 port and two USB 3.0 ports allow you to add any external data source or peripheral to your setup, while the new SD and TF card readers make short work of photos and videos from cameras and gaming handhelds. Speaking of handhelds, the HDMI port’s support for 4K 60Hz output will be a treat for gamers, including Nintendo Switch owners. And when you need to charge your phone or tablet, the 100W PD fast-charging port delivers enough juice to free you from battery anxiety.

With its compact design, the Memdock G2 Hub can accompany you whenever and wherever life takes you. Its potent combination of a 7-in-1 hub and programmable keys offers professionals, content creators, gamers, and anyone in between the power and flexibility they need to be efficient and productive. Plus, it looks great as well, adding a unique aesthetic to any desk. Why settle for a boring multi-port hub or an expensive and complicated macro dock when you can get both in one with the Memdock Gen 2 True Customizable-Keys 7-in-1 Hub.

Click Here to Buy Now: $109 $225 ($116 off). Hurry, only 112/500 left! Raised over $57,000.

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The iconic American roadster from the 1910s is marking its presence again with a modernized appeal all thanks to Stephen Wright. Yes, I’m talking about the Cyclone motorcycle designed and developed originally by Joerns Motor Manufacturing Company. This performance roadster was way ahead of its time as it was capable of reaching speeds over 150 km/h, driven by a 996cc engine.

The bike made frequent appearances at the board track racing circuits until 1917 when other bike makers offered cheaper versions. Ultimately the Joerns’ had to sell it to Ignaz Schwinn of Excelsior Motor Company who later developed many machines engineered on the two-wheeler. The Cyclone motorbike was officially discontinued in 1920, and to date, only a handful of examples have survived the sands of time. In fact, only 14 bikes exist in current times, and five of them are pure racing versions. That’s how exclusive this classic motorbike actually is!

Designer: Stephen Wright

It is hard to believe that the motorcycle is more than a century old and still in sublime condition. Most of that can be attributed to Stephen’s effort in restoring the yellow-painted V-twin bike. For the unassuming, the two-wheeler could be nothing special, but for collectors, it is a prized possession. This was the first ever overhead-camshaft motorcycle and since there were only a limited number of units churned out in the three-year-long manufacturing run, the bike was second to none. Being powered by a 61ci air-cooled OHC engine configuration, having a Schebler carburetor mated to a single-speed transmission controlled via a foot clutch, the machine churned out 45 horsepower. That amount of thrust for a bike in the early 1900s was totally unheard of. Also, it is worth mentioning that the two-wheeler’s engine employed self-aligning roller bearings instead of the more commonly used plain bushes. These were in place to adjust for the misalignment of the engine due to vibrational movement.

The engine combustion chamber has an elongated dome-shaped configuration and classy fenders which lends the bike a distinct persona in the signature yellow hue. Joerns Motor Manufacturing Company also sold the bike in blue color, but for this one-off restoration, Stephen opted for the eye-popping color. As mentioned on the auction website, the bike was a bit fragile when going over speeds of 150 kilometers, since it depends on the small metal well filled with oil for lubrication that drips on the two camshafts.

To get over this issue, the rider has to stop occasionally and add more oil to the cam drippers. But that won’t be necessary as we rarely have street-legal bike riders get an empty stretch of the highway to take such an exclusive piece of history for a spin over speeds of 150 kmph. For the undisclosed proud owner who bought it off the auction for 1.32 million, this is going to be the centerpiece of the garage.

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Tiny house builders constantly seek ways to maximize living space, and this clever model addresses the challenge with an innovative interior design that includes a rooftop terrace, complete with seating and a pergola. Designed by Modern Shed, this tiny house is constructed on a triple-axle trailer, measuring 34 ft (10 m) in length and 10 ft (3 m) in width. This increased width creates a more open interior feel but requires a permit for towing on public roads in the US. The exterior features a painted shiplap finish.

Designer: Modern Shed

As previously mentioned, the layout of this tiny house deviates from the standard design in different ways. The main entrance consists of sliding glass doors that open directly into the living room, creating an inviting and airy transition from outside to inside. This central living area occupies the middle section of the ground floor and includes comfortable seating, clever storage solutions, and a ceiling adorned with wood elements. The space also includes an underfloor heating system to offer warmth during the cooler months.

The kitchen isn’t adjacent to the living room as seen in most tiny homes. Instead, it has been ingeniously positioned in one of the loft areas, accessible via a short flight of steps. The kitchen boasts generous headroom, allowing easy movement and an airy atmosphere. It comes well-equipped with modern appliances, including a fridge/freezer, a compact dishwasher, an electric cooktop, and a microwave. A cozy small dining table provides a perfect spot for meals. The kitchen also features an impressive ceiling design that merges wood and cork, adding a unique aesthetic appeal to the space, and a touch of nature.

The rooftop deck is conveniently accessed from the kitchen area by climbing some steps that cleverly double as storage units. This elevated outdoor space is outfitted with comfortable seating and tables, making it an ideal spot for relaxation and enjoying leisurely meals in the open air. The deck is topped with a pergola that provides a pleasant mix of sunlight and shade, and is designed to be easily removable for safe storage when the house is on the move.

The bedroom in the home can be accessed via a set of steps from the living room. The loft space is equipped with a double bed, and an overhead skylight which allows natural light to stream in during the day, while offering a view of the stars at night. A lowered standing platform elevates the functionality of the bedroom, making it much more convenient for residents to stand upright comfortably and get dressed easily. The bathroom is on the ground floor of the house, and it contains a vanity sink, toilet, shower, a washer/dryer, and direct access to the outside through a secondary entrance. This little dwelling is currently priced at US$149,000.

The post Luxury Meets Micro-Living In This Tiny Home Blessed With A Rooftop Terrace first appeared on Yanko Design.

Huawei’s latest product launch in Kuala Lumpur introduced a series of meaningful advancements. The company is doubling down on foldable displays, audio, and wearables with bold designs and refined engineering. The event introduced the HUAWEI Mate XT, the world’s first commercial tri-fold smartphone, an upgraded MatePad Pro 13.2, the FreeArc open-ear earbuds, and the lightweight HUAWEI Band 10.

Designer: Huawei

HUAWEI Mate XT: The Evolution of Foldable Displays

Huawei’s Mate XT takes foldable smartphones to the next level. The tri-fold design creates a 10.2-inch display while maintaining a slim 3.6mm profile. The Advanced Precision Hinge System and ultra-thin glass (UTG) allow it to fold both inwards and outwards, offering flexibility for various use cases. The structure is engineered for durability, with Huawei’s proprietary hinge mechanism reducing stress points to ensure a smooth transition between folding positions.

For multitasking, the large screen supports split-screen functionality and adaptable viewing modes. Whether reading, browsing, or handling multiple apps simultaneously, the Mate XT transitions smoothly between tasks. The device’s software is optimized to take full advantage of its expanded display, allowing users to run multiple apps simultaneously without compromise. Huawei has also packed in its Ultra Aperture XMAGE Camera, featuring a 10-size adjustable physical aperture, designed for professionals who need sharp, versatile photography in any lighting condition. The high-resolution sensor, combined with Huawei’s computational photography advancements, ensures professional-grade results without requiring additional editing.

The Mate XT’s battery life is engineered to handle the demands of power users. A high-capacity battery paired with Huawei’s SuperCharge technology allows for rapid refueling, ensuring the device remains ready for productivity or entertainment throughout the day. The addition of improved cooling mechanisms prevents overheating during intensive tasks such as video editing or gaming, making the Mate XT a powerhouse in the foldable space.

HUAWEI MatePad Pro 13.2: A Tablet Aiming to Replace Your Laptop

Huawei’s latest MatePad Pro 13.2 leans into productivity with a vibrant OLED PaperMatte Display, a 2.8K resolution, and an ultra-slim design. The 1000-nit brightness ensures sharp visuals, whether working indoors or out. It’s paired with the HUAWEI Smart Magnetic Keyboard, delivering a near-laptop typing experience with tactile keys and an intuitive layout. The integration of Huawei’s ecosystem allows seamless device interconnectivity, making it possible to switch between a smartphone, laptop, and tablet effortlessly.

Beyond the hardware, Huawei is refining its software ecosystem. Apps like HUAWEI Notes and GoPaint offer deeper creative functionality, while the PC-style multitasking tools make working on a tablet feel less like a compromise. The latency-free stylus support ensures a smooth writing and drawing experience, catering to digital artists, designers, and professionals who need precision tools on the go. A 10,100 mAh battery ensures longevity, with HUAWEI SuperCharge getting the device to a full charge in just 65 minutes, allowing for all-day productivity without frequent recharges.

HUAWEI FreeArc: Open-Ear Audio for an Active Lifestyle

Huawei is stepping into open-ear audio with the FreeArc, a set of hooked earbuds designed for comfort and stability. The C-bridge structure, combined with a flexible 0.7mm nickel-titanium memory alloy, ensures a secure fit without compromising breathability. Huawei’s design team studied over 10,000 ear shapes to refine the ergonomics, making them comfortable for long sessions.

Unlike traditional earbuds that block outside noise, the FreeArc allows for situational awareness, making them ideal for urban runners or cyclists. A 17 x 12 mm high-sensitivity driver, along with Adaptive Equal-loudness Algorithm and Dynamic Bass Algorithm, provides a deep, resonant sound. With an IP57 rating, they hold up in wet and dusty conditions, making them a solid choice for outdoor enthusiasts. The Reverse Sound Waves System directs sound toward the ear canal while minimizing leakage, ensuring privacy while enhancing audio clarity.

The FreeArc earbuds also prioritize voice clarity during calls. Featuring a dual-microphone setup with AI noise cancellation, the earbuds effectively suppress wind and ambient noise, making them ideal for business professionals who need reliable call quality in various environments. The extended battery life, combined with fast-charging capabilities, allows for long listening sessions without frequent recharging.

HUAWEI Band 10: Lightweight, Smart, and Stylish

The HUAWEI Band 10 refines wellness tracking with a sleek design and advanced sensors. It offers an Enhanced Sleep Health Assistant that analyzes sleep cycles in detail, providing actionable insights. The Emotional Wellbeing Assistant tracks physiological changes, helping users monitor stress levels throughout the day.

Customization is at the forefront, with Panda-themed watch faces that adapt based on mood. The Band 10 is lightweight and designed for all-day wear, making it a seamless addition to any lifestyle, whether for fitness tracking or daily productivity. Advanced heart rate monitoring and SpO2 tracking ensure that users receive real-time health insights, supporting both athletic performance and general wellness.

Huawei has also incorporated smart notifications, allowing users to receive messages, calls, and app alerts directly on their wrist without the need to constantly check their phone. The extended battery life makes it practical for continuous wear, ensuring users can rely on the Band 10 as a comprehensive wellness and productivity tool.

Pricing and Availability

The HUAWEI FreeArc earbuds are available for pre-order at £99.99, with a £25 discount running until March 3. The full launch takes place on March 4, with a promotional offer of £20 off until April 1. More details can be found on Huawei’s official site.

With foldable displays maturing, Huawei is showing it’s serious about pushing the category forward. The Mate XT is more than a concept—it’s a product that expands what’s possible in mobile design. The new tablet and audio devices round out a lineup built for users who demand more from their technology. Huawei’s focus on design and technological refinement is user-driven innovation is evident in every aspect of these releases, proving that the brand remains a key player in shaping the future of consumer tech.

The post Huawei Unveils Game-Changing Tri-Fold Smartphone, Pro-Grade Tablet, and Open-Ear Audio Innovation first appeared on Yanko Design.

Going to CES is a lot like going on a treasure hunt. You know you’re going to be surrounded by tech, but a lot of the stuff you see is either mediocre or iterative. Only one in maybe a thousand or two thousand products actually achieves something so game-changing, you stop, observe, interact, and then praise. At this year’s CES in Las Vegas, the Haply MinVerse was that product for me. At first glance, it looked like an unassuming input device, but the moment I placed my hand on it, everything changed. This wasn’t a typical mouse. It moved in ways no mouse ever had before—through three dimensions instead of two—and, more importantly, it let me feel what was happening on the screen.

The MinVerse, developed by Haply Robotics, introduces a level of tactile interaction that redefines digital creation. Instead of passively gliding through surfaces, it reacts to the virtual world, pushing back when encountering solid surfaces, offering the sensation of weight, and making digital objects feel real. Sculpting in 3D suddenly felt natural, as if I was actually pushing clay rather than manipulating polygons. Controlling objects felt precise, like my hands were directly influencing on-screen physics. I’ve spent years playing VR games knowing fully well that the virtual wall in front of me isn’t real… but with the MinVerse, I tried touching a 3D surface, and the mouse stopped my hand the moment it hit resistance. That’s truly mind-bending.

Designers: Felix Desourdy & Romain Bursi

Click Here to Buy Now: $670 $1500 ($830 off). Hurry, only 13/15 left! Raised over $80,000.

The MinVerse was developed by the folks at Haply Robotics as an iterative improvement to their Inverse robot. The Inverse (which I saw first) is a 3D input and haptic feedback device designed for industrial and scientific applications. It’s impressive, but it isn’t consumer-grade. Realizing that 3D input should be for consumers and smaller creators too, Haply designed the MinVerse, a smaller, flatter, and more advanced version of its predecessor. About the size of a large power-bank, the MinVerse sits at just 40mm or 1.5 inches in height, with the ability to be used on its own, attached to a computer mouse, or even a stylus – effectively revolutionizing fields like design, engineering, creative coding, game development, and even gaming itself.

The device measures 240mm (9.4 inches) wide, 120mm (4.7 inches) deep, and 40mm (1.5 inches) tall when folded shut. Open it and you notice how unique it looks compared to any mouse you’ve ever seen, but you also immediately get the hang of it in minutes without really any learning curve. The mouse’s parallel linkage arms allow for any movement on a 2D plane, but lift your hand off the floor and you realize that you can now manipulate the same cursor in another axis.

A 4kHz refresh rate means smooth usage whether you’re modeling or gaming. Plus, its force feedback, ranging from 2N to 4N, ensures that users don’t just see virtual objects but physically sense them. If a cursor hits a wall, the MinVerse pushes back, making the digital barrier feel solid… and I can’t stress enough how much of a quantum leap this combination of 3D manipulation and haptic reaction is for a lot of professions.

For 3D artists and designers, it offers a way to sculpt, model, and manipulate objects with realistic force feedback. Instead of relying solely on visual cues, they can feel the depth, texture, and weight of their creations. Game developers using software like Blender and Unity can position assets, adjust camera angles, and refine animations with an intuitive sense of touch, making workflows more natural.

Engineers and robotics enthusiasts benefit from the precise force feedback when controlling robotic arms or piloting drones. Instead of abstract joystick movements, they can physically feel the machine’s response, leading to more accurate and immersive control. Even gamers will find the experience transformative—whether it’s feeling the tension of a bowstring, the weight of a sword, or the kickback of a firearm, the MinVerse brings digital interactions closer to reality.

Imagine designing a product and being able to feel how its parts fit together before manufacturing. Or training in a simulated environment where the controls respond like real-world machinery. This technology has the potential to go beyond creative industries, extending into education, medical training, and even remote-controlled robotics.

I’ll be honest – Haptic feedback isn’t new, but integrating it into a consumer device at this level is a major leap forward. The device recreates the sensation of textures, resistance, and force, allowing users to feel surfaces, materials, and physical interactions as if they were truly there. The MinVerse does for mice what the Oculus Rift did in 2012 for VR headsets – make them popular, affordable, compact, and potentially create a new device category for consumers and professionals.

The MinVerse is available for a discounted price of $670 for early adopters, studios (both design and gaming), robotics startups, engineers, and 3D modelers/animators. It’s not cheap – but devices that are a generational leap aren’t supposed to be budget-focused. It comes in a gorgeous matte-metallic space-grey finish along with a comprehensive kit of modules. The modular attachments—including a stylus, a 2D mouse mode, and a VR controller—allow the MinVerse to switch functions seamlessly. The MinVerse connects via USB-C and features a wireless stylus, with a wireless mouse mode coming soon.

Click Here to Buy Now: $670 $1500 ($830 off). Hurry, only 13/15 left! Raised over $80,000.

The post Game-Changing Haptic 3D Mouse Lets You Feel Digital Objects Like They’re Real… We Tried It first appeared on Yanko Design.

Choosing a strap for your watch is like choosing a paint-job for your car. Or the furniture for your house. It adds an aesthetic, sometimes functional layer to the watch, just like choosing yellow paint is an aesthetic + functional choice for a cab, or choosing bunk-beds is an aesthetic + functional choice for a home with a single bedroom for two siblings, or a dorm. Watches come in hundreds (if not thousands) of varieties, and so do watch straps… but you can boil these straps down to 5 broad materials – Metal, Leather, Rubber (or Silicon), NATO (Nylon), or Canvas. So, does it make sense to spend time deliberating on what material works with your watch? Absolutely!

Each material offers its own balance of comfort, durability, and aesthetic appeal, making it crucial to consider how it fits into your daily routine and personal style. Whether you’re a suit-and-tie kind of person, a weekend explorer, or someone who just wants a reliable everyday watch, there’s a strap that perfectly suits your needs. Let’s break down each option to help you decide.

Metal Straps – Classic, Durable, and Timeless

Metal straps, often made from stainless steel or titanium, are the definition of versatility. They pair effortlessly with both formal and casual watches, making them a staple for anyone who values longevity and a refined aesthetic. A well-crafted metal bracelet adds heft and presence to a watch, making it feel more substantial on the wrist. Whether it’s the sleek polish of a Rolex Jubilee bracelet or the rugged appeal of an Omega Seamaster’s chunky links, or even the Milanese-style mesh on your Tissot Seastar, metal straps exude confidence and durability.

They work best with dive watches, dress watches, and chronographs, complementing cases that range from slim and elegant to bold and industrial. Metal straps fit seamlessly into business attire, evening wear, and even smart-casual outfits. However, they might not be the best choice for extreme outdoor activities, as they can feel heavy and less comfortable in hot weather.

Pros:

• Exceptional durability
• Waterproof and sweatproof
• Timeless aesthetic
• Excellent resale value
• Low maintenance
• Perfect for professional settings

Cons:

• Generally heavier than other options
• Can be expensive
• May pull arm hair
• Limited flexibility in formal situations
• Can be challenging to size properly

Leather Straps – Sophisticated, Versatile, and Full of Character

Leather straps remain the quintessential choice for dress watches and classic timepieces, offering an unmatched level of sophistication and elegance. Available in countless varieties – from classic calfskin to exotic alligator and ostrich – leather straps can transform the character of a watch while providing excellent comfort. They’re particularly suited to dress watches, vintage timepieces, and chronographs.

The versatility of leather is remarkable, with different treatments and finishes allowing for both formal and casual applications. A black alligator strap can elevate a watch to black-tie status, while a distressed brown leather strap can create a perfect casual vintage look. They work exceptionally well with business attire and formal wear, though certain casual leather varieties can complement everyday casual wear as well.

Pros:

• Develops unique patina over time
• Excellent comfort
• Wide range of styles and colors
• Perfect for formal occasions
• Ages beautifully
• Easy to change

Cons:

• Requires maintenance
• Not water-resistant
• Can deteriorate in hot climates
• May show wear quickly
• More expensive for quality options

Rubber Straps – Sporty, Waterproof, and Built for Action

Rubber straps have come a long way from their humble beginnings as purely utilitarian options for dive watches. Today’s rubber straps are available in various grades and compositions, from natural rubber to sophisticated synthetic compounds, offering supreme comfort and durability. They’re ideal for sports watches, dive watches, and any timepiece that might be exposed to water or physical activity.

High-end rubber straps, like those from Oysterflex by Rolex or Vulcanized rubber by Richard Mille, have elevated this material to luxury status. They’re also a standard fixture for most smartwatches, making them uniquely dichotomic, so don’t let people look down on you for wearing rubber straps. Rubber, or sometimes even silicone, can be hypoallergenic too, making them perfect for people with sensitive skin.

Pros:

• Extremely durable
• Waterproof
• Easy to clean
• Comfortable in all weather
• Perfect for active lifestyles
• Anti-allergenic

Cons:

• Can attract dust
• May not age as gracefully as leather
• Limited formal applications
• Quality varies significantly
• Can trap moisture against skin

NATO Straps – Military Roots with Modern Versatility

Born from military specifications in the 1970s, NATO straps have evolved from purely functional items to fashion statements in their own right. Made from woven nylon, these straps are lightweight, breathable, and incredibly secure, as they loop under the watch case to prevent the watch from falling off if a spring bar fails. Their affordability and wide range of colors make them a go-to option for those who like to switch up their watch’s look frequently.

NATO straps are perfect for field watches, tool watches, and casual dive watches, giving them a rugged yet approachable vibe. They pair well with relaxed, everyday outfits—think jeans, a T-shirt, and a vintage-style watch. While they’re not ideal for formal occasions, they excel in outdoor adventures and summer wear, offering unmatched comfort in hot and humid conditions.

Pros:

• Extremely affordable
• Easy to change
• Highly secure
• Wide variety of colors and patterns
• Comfortable in hot weather
• Water-resistant

Cons:

• Can look too casual for formal occasions
• May add thickness to the watch
• Can wear out relatively quickly
• Some designs may appear too busy
• Not suitable for dress watches

Canvas Straps – Rugged, Lightweight, and Understated

Canvas straps represent a perfect middle ground between the casualness of NATO straps and the sophistication of leather. These fabric straps, often made from cotton or linen, offer a unique texture and visual interest that can complement both vintage and modern timepieces. They work particularly well with field watches, pilot watches, and casual everyday timepieces.

The informal nature of canvas makes these straps perfect for weekend wear and casual settings, while still maintaining a more refined appearance than their NATO cousins. They’re especially suitable for summer months and tropical climates, offering excellent breathability while adding a touch of adventure to any watch they’re paired with.

Pros:

• Excellent breathability
• Casual yet refined appearance
• Generally affordable
• Comfortable in hot weather
• Easy to clean
• Lightweight

Cons:

• Limited formal applications
• Can absorb moisture and odors
• May fray over time
• Less durable than other options
• Can be difficult to find in high quality

The post Metal, Leather, Rubber, NATO, or Canvas – Which is the Right Watch Strap Material for You? first appeared on Yanko Design.

Called the Sunny Bunkie, this little home can accommodate a modern bunk-bed structure, as its name implies. Built by Canadian tiny home builder Sunshine Tiny Homes, this house is intended to be a versatile and practical solution that offers extra space. No building permit is required for the home, and it has a starting price of $35,000, making it accessible as well. You can build your own Sunny Bunkie according to your specifications and have it delivered and installed at low costs. The home occupies only 100 square feet, which is quite small from the sounds of it, but it manages to pack a punch with its versatility.

Designer: Sunshine Tiny Homes

The dwelling has many possibilities for utilization – it can be used as a guest room with bunk beds, an office area, and a living room. The bunk-bed setup ensures that not much space is occupied by the sleeping quarters. It can accommodate two people, and the built-in staircase offers easy access to the upper bed. The lower bed also features easy-to-reach storage. These simple yet meaningful details make this bunk bed modern and functional, unlike the basic kids’ bunk bed we often see. This little home can house three beds, and the unique bunk-bed configuration can be used for B&B-inspired accommodation.

The Sunny Bunkie has more than enough space for a home office and a small lounge with a sofa and multiple storage options. As you enter through the glass doors, you enter a space that is cozy and inviting. The glass doors visually make the interior seem more spacious, giving the floor space a more generous impression. The space also features a small exterior deck, that allows the home to stay connected to its surroundings. The roof protects the deck as well, creating a sheltered outdoor space. This adorable deck is great for spending time with loved ones out in the sun, absorbing the beauty of nature.

The Sunny Bunkie may not be completely classified as a tiny home, but the adaptable home is built using the same high-quality materials as the Sunshine Tiny Home models. It is fully insulated to ensure comfort throughout the year and to enhance durability over time. Each unit comes equipped with lighting and a heating system, facilitated by a 30-amp sub panel that allows for easy connection to existing electrical systems. The Sunny Bunkie truly lives up to its name, offering the option to integrate a solar power system, making it both an affordable and sustainable modern living solution.

The Sunny Bunkie boasts an innovative exterior that promotes outdoor connectivity, while its versatile interior is designed to accommodate a wide variety of activities. If you’re about to embark on a tiny living journey or looking to efficiently expand your living space, then the Sunny Bunkie is an excellent choice with its blend of functionality, affordability, and sustainable design.

The post This 100 Sq Ft Home With A Bunk Bed Packs A Punch With Its Functional & Highly Versatile Design first appeared on Yanko Design.

Most chairs are designed for the everyday act of sitting – at a desk, relaxing, or enjoying a meal. But what about those who require a more dynamic and specialized seating experience? Painters, for example, often work on vertical canvases, require a chair that offers mobility, support, and freedom of movement. Industrial design student Teo Primo Frizzarin recognized this need and developed the “Leo” chair, a concept specifically designed for artists.

Designer: Teo Primo Frizzarin

Frizzarin, studying at ECAL (University of Art and Design Lausanne), focused his efforts on creating a chair that caters to the unique demands of working with a vertical surface. The Leo chair aims to provide painters with enhanced mobility and crucial arm support, essential for the creation of their masterpieces. The name itself, “Leo,” likely evokes the legacy of Leonardo da Vinci, hinting at the chair’s artistic purpose. The Leo chair draws inspiration from the form and function of a horse saddle. This design provides a stable seat while simultaneously granting the user greater freedom of movement compared to a traditional chair.

You get a conventional looking backrest but it also appears to be an arm support, which is probably what’s needed more. This support is not only adjustable in height but also in position, accommodating the varied postures and angles painters adopt while working. This adaptability is key, as artists often shift their positions and reach across the canvas as their work progresses. The prototype of the Leo chair showcases its mobility-enhancing features, including integrated wheels. These wheels allow the artist to easily maneuver around their workspace, retrieving paints, brushes, solvents, or other materials without needing to stand up and disrupt their creative flow. This thoughtful detail addresses the practical needs of painters who often require quick access to a variety of tools and supplies.

Frizzarin’s innovative design earned him a “Très Bien” mention for his diploma project, suggesting a promising future for the Leo chair. This recognition underscores the potential market for specialized furniture that caters to the specific requirements of artists. Currently, painters often rely on standard chairs, rolling chairs, or swivel chairs, none of which are perfectly optimized for the demands of their craft. The Leo chair offers a compelling alternative, potentially revolutionizing the way artists interact with their workspace. While still a concept, the Leo chair represents a significant step towards a more ergonomic and artist-centric approach to furniture design. It raises the question: will the Leo chair become the new standard for artists’ seating, or will it inspire further innovation in this often-overlooked area of design?

The post Leo concept chair lets painters have more mobility while working on canvas first appeared on Yanko Design.

In a seamless blend of technology and ecology, artist Raphaël Emine pioneers a new frontier in sculpture by creating 3D-printed ceramic works that serve as hotels for insects and small wildlife. Collaborating with WASP, a leading 3D printing company, Emine utilizes cutting-edge technology to craft intricate, nature-inspired habitats that offer refuge to various species. Named Les Utopies Entomologiques (Entomological Utopias), these structures not only showcase innovative design but also contribute to biodiversity conservation in urban and natural landscapes.

Designer: Raphaël Emine

Drawing from the natural world, Emine’s sculptures embody structural patterns found in honeycomb cells, worm and spider webs, plant fractals, and geodesic mineral formations. These inspirations manifest in the intricate detailing of his 3D-printed ceramic pieces, from their large, welcoming entrances to the decorative, spherical elements adorning their exteriors. Unlike conventional monolithic sculptures, Emine’s creations feature an array of galleries, tunnels, corridors, and balconies, offering insects and small wildlife a safe and dynamic space to inhabit.

Designed for outdoor spaces, these ceramic hotels support multiple cycles of insect and wildlife activity, even accommodating species through metamorphosis and seasonal changes. The porous and textural quality of the clay enhances their suitability as natural shelters, allowing them to seamlessly blend into ecosystems. Emine has successfully installed two of these works: Utopies Entomologiques I in 2023 and Utopies Entomologiques II in 2024. Both installations highlight the durability and adaptability of WASP’s 3D printing technology, particularly with the use of WASP 40100 LDM and Delta WASP 2040 Clay.

Beyond their ecological function, Emine’s sculptures explore baroque and biomorphic aesthetics, invoking a sense of organic grandeur. Their flowing, intricate forms recall elements of utopian architecture, transforming them into both artistic and functional entities. Installed in the palm grove of Parc Maison Blanche in Marseille, these ceramic nests are designed to be either freestanding or suspended from trees, allowing diverse interactions between the sculptures and their environment. Over time, these pieces have attracted a variety of insects and small wildlife, validating their effectiveness as alternative habitats.

The post Artist 3D-Prints Ceramic Homes For Insects In The Forest Inspired By Natural Habitats first appeared on Yanko Design.

Switch 2 is agonisingly close to release at the Nintendo Direct event which will be held on April 2, 2025, at 9 AM Eastern and 6 AM Pacific. The company teased the highly anticipated handheld console in January, and many speculations have ignited the upcoming release since then. At that time Mario Kart 9 was shown off being played using revamped Joy-Cons. The accessory was also used as a mouse, sliding on a flat surface, which is interesting.

The upcoming event that’ll now officially reveal more technical details of the home console cum hybrid handheld that’s bigger than the predecessor. We eagerly await the sequel for a clearer picture of the ‘C Button’ functionality, USB-C ports, and the Joy-Con being used as a mouse input. It is also expected that the price and availability of the Steam Deck killer will be announced at the upcoming event. While a deleted Reddit account had a post revealing the launch date for Nintendo Switch 2 to be May 22, we’ll look at what’s just ahead of us.

Designer: Nintendo

Keeping our focus on the Joy-Cons that were briefly shown to have a mouse-like input, there’s more on this development. A patent filed in August 2023 by Nintendo was published yesterday, giving more details about what the controller can do. There are multiple use case scenarios for this input device, one of them being the mouse functionality along with the associated control schemes. We have to keep in mind though, there’s no mention of Switch 2 anywhere in the patent description, and the assumption is purely based on the factual probabilities.

The renders of this patent clearly show a Joy-Con-like device being used as a mouse. The gadget has a front surface, a first slide surface, directional inputs, an upper surface button, and a sensor for mouse operation. In one of the rendered diagrams, the controller is held horizontally with the thumb of the player on the control stick and the SR and SL buttons facing downwards. By reasonable logic, this means the optical sensor will be downwards, so that the device input can be registered in a mouse-like orientation. It looks like the right side of the controller can be placed on a flat surface for mouse-like functionality. In this orientation, the controller can be docked and charged by the look of things.

This mystery device will have a wrist strap attachment slot with a mention of the “magnet” word 355 times indicating the attachment mechanism to be a more convenient magnetically attaching mechanism. We can also not rule out the possibility of Joy-Cons attaching to the Switch 2 magnetically too. Given the rumors that have surrounded the Switch 2 and the Joy-Cons lately, these seem like the missing pieces in the puzzle of what mouse-like controller we have in hiding when the console is finally in our possession.

The post Switch 2 Joy-Con mouse functionality reiterated by a published Nintendo patent first appeared on Yanko Design.

Valentine’s Day is about expressing love and appreciation for your special someone, not about the pressure of buying expensive gifts. It’s not about the pressure of purchasing extravagant gifts, but about crafting experiences that are both visually appealing and deeply meaningful. A thoughtful and meaningful present can speak volumes without straining your budget. Remember, a well-chosen gift is more than just a gesture; it reflects your understanding, respect, and admiration. The experience of giving the gift should be joyful, not stressful. Here are five affordable gift ideas that are simple, practical, timeless, and heartfelt—perfect for showing how much you care.

As a design enthusiast, Valentine’s Day offers a unique opportunity to blend creativity with sentimentality. It’s not about the pressure of purchasing extravagant gifts, but about crafting experiences that are both visually appealing and deeply meaningful. I remember one year when I decided to design a custom photo book for my partner. Instead of opting for a pricey store-bought item, I curated a collection of our favorite memories, each page thoughtfully designed to reflect our journey together. The joy in choosing this gift was unparalleled. It was more than just a gesture—it was a reflection of my understanding, respect, and admiration for my partner’s taste and our shared experiences. Designing the book allowed me to express my feelings through art and creativity, making the experience of giving it truly joyful and personal. With this mindset, I’ve compiled five affordable gift ideas that are simple yet sophisticated, timeless yet trendy—perfect for showing how much you care while indulging your love for design.

1. For Gamers

Shopping for a gamer on Valentine’s Day can indeed be tricky, especially if you’re not entirely familiar with their favorite game titles or specific preferences. Yet, fear not, because even a modestly priced, thoughtfully chosen gift can significantly enhance their gaming experience. Consider starting with accessories that upgrade their setup. A gaming ergonomic mouse pad, for example, provides essential comfort during those marathon sessions, reducing strain and allowing for smoother gameplay. RGB LED strip lighting is another fantastic option; it transforms any gaming space with customizable colors that set the perfect ambiance. These small touches can make a big difference in creating an immersive environment.

Additionally, practical gifts like cable management clips are invaluable for keeping a gamer’s setup neat and clutter-free, which is often a welcome improvement. For console gamers, thumb grips can enhance precision and control during play—an affordable yet impactful upgrade. To add a personal touch, consider surprising your gamer with themed artwork that reflects their favorite games or characters; this not only personalizes their space but also celebrates their passion in a unique way. By focusing on these budget-friendly options, you can show your appreciation and understanding of their interests without straining your wallet, all while making their gaming experience more enjoyable and personalized.

The Lexip Np93 Alpha gaming mouse integrates a two-axis thumb joystick, providing more control than traditional mice. It features 12 programmable buttons and six ceramic feet for smooth gliding, offering comfort and customization. This innovative mouse uses premium materials, including a soft coating and customizable RGB lighting, to fit any setup.

Additionally, the Lexip Np93 Alpha enhances the gaming experience with features like oil painting and double-injected rubber for a sleek, tactile grip. The customizable RGB lighting ensures it complements any gaming environment. This Valentine’s Day, consider giving the gamer in your life a gift that combines flexibility, control, and ergonomic design. The Lexip Np93 Alpha redefines traditional input methods, making it a must-have for serious gamers.

2. For Music Lovers and Audiophiles

If your special someone is a music lover, showing you care with unique and personalized gifts can create lasting memories without breaking the bank. Start with custom vinyl records that feature their name and a heartfelt message—these not only serve as a tangible expression of your affection but also as a cherished keepsake. Premium-quality headphones or noise-canceling headphones can transform their listening experience, offering rich soundscapes and uninterrupted enjoyment. For those who love tech, smart speakers are an excellent choice; they not only elevate the quality of their music but also offer the convenience of voice commands and smart home integration. A curated playlist of songs that hold special meaning for both of you adds a deeply personal touch, creating an auditory journey through shared experiences.

For an added vibe, consider LED soundbars that sync with the beat of the music, creating a dynamic and visually engaging atmosphere in any room. If your partner enjoys live performances, concert tickets make for an unforgettable gift—offering not just entertainment but also shared experiences that bring you closer together. For those who appreciate vintage charm, retro-inspired designs offer a timeless appeal, whether it’s in the form of record players, radios, or classic album art prints. These budget-friendly options allow you to celebrate their passion for music in thoughtful ways while expressing your love and appreciation.

Take a look at the budget-friendly Miniso G90 headphones that redefine audio innovation by integrating high-quality sound with a built-in detachable touchscreen. Designed for users who value functionality and novelty, these headphones feature premium noise-canceling technology that effectively reduces ambient noise, ensuring an immersive listening experience. Equipped with aptX Adaptive Sound and multiple EQ presets, the G90 optimizes audio clarity for various genres. Its foldable, lightweight design, coupled with plush memory foam ear cushions, offers superior comfort for extended use. Bluetooth 5.4 ensures seamless connectivity, while the intuitive touchscreen allows effortless control of music playback, calls, and noise-canceling modes.

Beyond its cutting-edge technology, the G90 stands out for its unique removable display, which showcases album art, track details, and essential information like time. Complemented by physical buttons for core functions, the headphones provide modern convenience and traditional usability. With a durable 10-hour battery life and a price point under $70, the G90 delivers premium features at an accessible cost, making it an excellent choice for gifting to music lovers seeking style, performance, and affordability in one device.

3. For Bookworms

If your partner is a bookworm who gets completely lost in the pages of a novel, consider enhancing their reading experience with thoughtful accessories that go beyond just another book. While a book may be enjoyed once, the right accessories can be cherished time and again. A well-chosen reading light or task lighting can provide better focus and reduce eye strain, making those late-night reading sessions more comfortable. LED neck reading lights offer a hands-free option, allowing them to read in any position without needing to hold a flashlight or lamp. These practical gifts show your understanding of their passion and support their literary pursuits.

To further elevate their reading experience, consider noise-canceling headphones or earbuds to block out distractions, providing an immersive environment for uninterrupted reading. If they enjoy sipping tea or coffee while getting lost in a story, a stylish tea kettle or coffee maker can enhance this cozy ritual. Bookends add charm and aesthetic appeal to their library, organizing their collection while also serving as decorative pieces. Simple yet meaningful, bookmarks are another delightful addition, offering both utility and personal expression. These budget-friendly gift ideas not only celebrate your partner’s love for books but also demonstrate your thoughtfulness in catering to their unique preferences and habits.

Creativity is not very expensive and the Paris Bookend, inspired by the city of love, makes for a perfect Valentine’s Day gift for book lovers and design enthusiasts. Crafted with exquisite detail, this miniature Hausmann-style building brings a touch of Parisian romance to any bookshelf. Its signature Mansard roof supports books effortlessly, while charming elements like chimneys, windows, and a red door add a storybook-like appeal. Resting on a stable platform, the bookend seamlessly blends elegance with functionality, creating a timeless piece that evokes the beautiful streets of Paris.

Whether for a partner, friend, or oneself, this bookend serves as a thoughtful expression of love and appreciation, celebrating both literature and architecture in a uniquely artistic form. For those seeking a personalized Valentine’s Day experience, designer Ezra Feldman offers the 3D file for just $1.60, allowing individuals to print and customize their own Paris Bookend. This flexibility lets users create a one-of-a-kind gift, perhaps even transforming the piece into a decorative lamp with softly glowing windows.

4. For Techies

Finding the perfect Valentine’s Day gift for a tech enthusiast can indeed be challenging, especially if you’re not particularly tech-savvy. However, there are many practical and thoughtful options that can delight any techie without stretching your budget. Consider gifts that enhance their mobility and convenience, such as wireless headphones or portable chargers. These items ensure they never have to worry about running out of power while on the go. Solar chargers are another great option, offering an eco-friendly way to keep devices charged anywhere they travel. Multi-purpose chargers with fast charging capabilities or wireless charging features can also simplify their lives by consolidating multiple charging needs into one sleek device.

In addition to power solutions, consider gifts that help organize and streamline their tech setup. Cable management solutions, like sleek organizers or multi-cable stations, can keep their workspace neat and tangle-free—an often overlooked but much-appreciated improvement for those surrounded by gadgets. For a touch of personalization, look for tech accessories that align with their specific interests, whether it’s a smart home gadget or a unique piece of tech-themed decor. These budget-friendly gifts demonstrate your thoughtfulness and understanding of their passion for technology, ensuring they feel appreciated this Valentine’s Day while also enhancing their daily life in meaningful ways.

Any tech enthusiast surely loves minimalist design and wireless charging solutions where chargers have few or no physical buttons. For instance, the MagSafe Trio concept aims to reintroduce tactile interaction, offering a more engaging experience. By adding physical actions like a spring-loaded button to reveal the iPhone charger and a twist-and-pull knob for the Apple Watch, it makes charging feel more personal and intentional in a digital world.

Unlike early flat and horizontal wireless chargers, this concept incorporates vertical charging, adds a soft light feature for extra functionality and the design features a flat top for AirPods. While the concept provides a more interactive approach to charging, it may not suit those who prefer the convenience of simply placing devices down. MagSafe Trio offers a fresh take on wireless charging with innovative, engaging features and its multifunctional design has a very compact footprint making it a suitable addition to one’s desk.

5. For Health and Wellness Enthusiasts

When shopping for a health and wellness enthusiast, consider gifting thoughtful fitness accessories that align with their wellness goals. The key is to choose something they don’t already have, adding value to their existing routine. Essential oil diffusers are a great starting point, offering a calming atmosphere with their favorite fragrances. These can transform any space into a personal sanctuary, perfect for meditation or relaxation. A smartwatch equipped with a pedometer and stress management features can be invaluable for tracking daily activity and well-being, providing insights into both physical and mental health. These devices encourage mindfulness and help set achievable fitness goals.

Additionally, gifts like fitness trackers, workout earbuds, and headphones can elevate their exercise experience by providing motivation through music or tracking progress in real-time. Resistance bands and activewear are excellent additions to their fitness regimen, offering versatility and comfort during workouts. Practical items like gym gloves protect hands during weightlifting sessions, while a water bottle with hydration reminders ensures they stay refreshed throughout the day. A quality yoga mat offers comfort during stretches or yoga practices, supporting their journey toward better health. These budget-friendly options not only demonstrate your thoughtfulness but also support their commitment to maintaining a healthy lifestyle, making them feel appreciated and motivated in their wellness pursuits.

You can consider innovative wearable devices like the DnaBand, developed by DnaNudge, which provides personalized dietary recommendations based on an individual’s genetic profile. It functions as a smart fitness tracker, worn on the wrist, and performs real-time genetic analysis of food by scanning product barcodes. The device evaluates whether the selected food is beneficial for the user based on their unique DNA, displaying a green light for suitable options and a red light for less ideal choices. This functionality helps users make informed decisions about their diet, promoting healthier eating habits.

With its growing database, the DnaBand continuously refines its recommendations, providing more accurate suggestions as new information becomes available. The device is comfortable to wear, featuring a magnetic leather strap that fits all wrist sizes. Data is securely stored locally on the band, ensuring privacy and protection. The DnaBand also syncs with fitness activity, adjusting dietary advice based on real-time fitness levels. This wearable offers a seamless way to optimize health through personalized nutrition guidance.

No matter what Valentine’s Day gift you choose, what truly matters is cherishing your relationship and creating lasting, meaningful memories together. After all, the most precious gift is the love and connection you share.

The post Top 5 Budget-Friendly Valentine’s Day Gifts that Make a Big Impact first appeared on Yanko Design.

Mobile gaming has reached a point where smartphones can handle graphically demanding, console-quality games, yet touchscreen controls continue to be a weak link. The lack of precision forces players to deal with frustrating input delays, limiting the experience. While many controllers attempt to fix this, most introduce bulky designs, awkward mounting systems, and storage challenges that diminish the convenience of gaming on the go.

The OhSnap MCON, introduced at CES 2025, changes the equation. Designed to be the most compact and portable mobile controller ever, it magnetically attaches to the back of a phone and stays out of the way until needed.

Designer: Josh King & Dave Echem

Click Here to Buy Now: $119 $149 (20% off). Hurry, only 4/2855 left! Raised over $1.5 million. Less than 72-hours to go.

A Controller That’s Always With You

Most mobile controllers need to be detached and stored when not in use, making them impractical for everyday carry. The MCON solves this by magnetically snapping to the back of a phone, ensuring it’s always within reach. Measuring just 5.67 inches long and under three-quarters of an inch thick, it maintains a low profile without compromising functionality.

“OhSnap MCON eliminates the bulk and hassle of traditional controllers, making it a must-have for every mobile gamer,” said OhSnap CEO Dale Backus. Unlike conventional designs that require clamping mechanisms or wired connections, the MCON stays attached at all times, turning a smartphone into a handheld gaming device without extra baggage.

Rather than relying on cumbersome clamps or expandable frames, the MCON features foldable grips that lock into place for comfort, along with a quick-sliding mechanism for instant access. Press both Quick Launch Buttons, and the controller deploys automatically, shifting the phone into an angled position while extending ergonomic grips that lock into place. This seamless transition allows players to go from checking messages to full gameplay in seconds. When a text or call interrupts gameplay, the controller slides shut, instantly returning the phone to its original form without the hassle of detaching or reconnecting anything.

Precision Controls with Hall Effect Joysticks and Silent Buttons

Despite its compact design, the MCON delivers console-quality precision. Many mobile controllers rely on standard analog sticks that are prone to drift, but the MCON features full-sized Hall Effect joysticks. These use magnetic sensors instead of physical contacts, eliminating drift and ensuring long-lasting durability with consistent responsiveness over time.

The button layout is designed for intuitive control. Unlike traditional mechanical switches that produce loud, clicky sounds, the MCON’s silent tactile buttons allow for smooth, discreet gameplay. Whether gaming in a shared space, on a late-night flight, or during a break at work, these buttons provide instant feedback without drawing attention.
Bumper-style triggers further enhance responsiveness, making them ideal for fast-paced games that require split-second inputs. Every design decision in the MCON is centered around a fluid gaming experience without unnecessary bulk.

Universal Compatibility for Any Smartphone

The MCON works with nearly any modern smartphone, regardless of brand or model. iPhone users benefit from native MagSafe compatibility, allowing the controller to attach magnetically without additional hardware.

For Android users and older iPhones, OhSnap includes a Magnetic Adapter Puck, a thin adhesive-backed disc that replicates the MagSafe attachment system. This ensures seamless integration without the need for clamps, brackets, or extra accessories.

With smartphones varying in size and shape, the MCON’s modular spacer system accounts for different camera bump heights. If a phone has a large camera module, stacking two pucks creates a level attachment. Smaller devices may only need a single puck or none at all, ensuring a stable fit.

Support for foldable phones is also in development, with OhSnap confirming that future updates will introduce mounting solutions for devices like the Samsung Galaxy Z Flip and Motorola Razr.

Bluetooth and Wired Connectivity for Versatile Gaming

To keep things simple, the MCON connects wirelessly via Bluetooth, allowing for unrestricted movement without cable clutter. Unlike controllers that require a direct USB-C or Lightning connection, MCON’s wireless setup works across all major mobile platforms.

Despite being Bluetooth-powered, battery life is not a concern—a 30-minute charge lasts for weeks, making it one of the most efficient controllers available.

Customization, Repairability, and Long-Term Value

Most controllers are built as sealed units, making repairs impossible. OhSnap designed the MCON with longevity in mind, using high-grade materials to ensure durability while allowing users to maintain and modify their controllers as needed. The entire device can be disassembled with a Torx screwdriver, enabling joystick replacements, button swaps, and even aesthetic upgrades.

Customization is just as important as repairability. The MCON supports interchangeable top plates, adjustable grips, and modular joystick options, allowing players to tailor it to their preferences. This design approach extends the controller’s lifespan while reducing electronic waste, aligning with the growing Right to Repair movement.

From Basement Prototype to Kickstarter Success

What started as a basement project by 19-year-old Josh King evolved into a breakthrough in mobile gaming. King developed the first prototype using a 3D printer in his parents’ basement, determined to create a controller that made sense for smartphones.

After partnering with OhSnap CEO Dale Backus, the MCON evolved into a refined, market-ready product. The response was overwhelming—within just eight days, its Kickstarter campaign raised over $1 million, proving that gamers are eager for a controller that blends function and form.

The Evolution of Mobile Gaming

The OhSnap MCON redefines mobile gaming with Hall Effect joysticks, silent tactile buttons, and an innovative sliding design. It delivers console-level precision in a form factor built for portability. Its MagSafe attachment, instant deployment, and repairable design ensure seamless integration into any gaming setup.

Jump into an online match or explore an open world—MCON keeps your smartphone ready to play. OhSnap best sums it up: “Play Now.”

Click Here to Buy Now: $119 $149 (20% off). Hurry, only 4/2855 left! Raised over $1.5 million. Less than 72-hours to go.

The post OhSnap MCON: The Compact Controller That Reinvents Mobile Gaming first appeared on Yanko Design.

The creative process is a multi-faceted journey, one that involves different stages that sometimes require tools different from our normal ones. Authors, for example, often find themselves doodling mind maps or sketching figures, while designers will type out notes and tasks every so often. When it comes to tools like notebooks and paper, there is no one solution that rules them all, but apps offer a kind of synergy that isn’t possible with analog tools.

At the same time, there are in fact too many apps nowadays thriving on buzzwords like GTD, PKM, and AI, and a whole lot of them seem to be targeted at a more tech-savvy audience. Their power often comes with complexity and carries an aesthetic that will spreadsheet-lovers more than stationery collectors. Worry not, because there are indeed note-taking and productivity apps designed with creatives and creators in mind, and these are five of the most powerful and beautiful note-taking apps to help designers, artists, and writers collect inspiration and organize their ideas.

Milanote

Even before the whole tribe of powerful note-taking apps descended on the digital landscape, Milanote was already carving out a niche for itself. Designed specifically with designers in mind, the app offers just enough tools to help users gather as many bits and pieces of inspiration as they can and then organize their thoughts, references, and inspirations for use later.

Designer: Milanote

Milanote basically gives users an infinite canvas to pin card-like objects that can contain text, images, YouTube links, and checklists. These can be arranged in a column or float on their own, drawn over with scribbles, and connected with lines, giving them the freedom to create mood boards, palettes, charts, and other visually interesting compositions to help their creative process. At the same time, it also helps them keep tabs on their tasks with checklists and kanban boards.

Milanote has been around for almost a decade now and, unfortunately, its age is starting to show. Unlike other apps in this space, the selection of objects that you can embed in that canvas is quite limited. While it does keep things simple, it might also fail to give the tools designers need to go beyond these basic building blocks. Milanote’s pricing system hasn’t changed that much either and it is one of the more restrictive and expensive ones out there.

What We Like

• Clean and beautiful interface.
• Simple and easy to use.
• Available on Desktops and Mobile devices.

What We Don’t Like

• Very restrictive free tier, expensive pricing.
• Limited types of objects.

Scrintal

Although it started as something like yet another Notion alternative (more on that later), Scrintal recently launched a new version and a new image, billing itself as a “Playground for the Mind.” Instead of the more document-centric platform it once used, it now embraces a more visual approach to shaping your ideas and documenting your creative process.

Designer: Scrintal

Like with Milanote and other apps like it, Scrintal uses different kinds of blocks to represent objects, but this time with more variety and power. Not only are the more types of blocks, you can also do more with them, like structurally linking them instead of just drawing lines between them. And when you’re done with the free-form brainstorming process, you can actually convert your boards into more traditional structured documents.

If Milanote only had a very limited free tier, Scrintal doesn’t have one at all. You can have a free trial, but that’s pretty much it. And because its “2.0” version is quite new, there isn’t even any mobile app available yet. Of course, you’re unlikely to move blocks around on your phone or tablet, but just being able to view your notes anywhere can be quite convenient.

What We Like

• Powerful free-form canvas for doing anything you want.
• Link blocks not only visually but also logically.
• Switch between visual board and standard documents seamlessly.

What We Don’t Like

• New version doesn’t have mobile apps yet.
• No limited free tier.

AFFiNE

As powerful as many of these note-taking tools might be, very few of us really know what happens behind the scenes. It’s not just because they’re complicated pieces of software but also because we have no access to their code in the first place. Some people are more conscious about their privacy and data security, and AFFinNE tries to serve this user base by offering an open source platform where you can be in total control of your data.

Designer: AFFiNE

AFFiNE’s experience operates on two different levels. On the one hand, you have what looks like a traditional linear document, except that paragraphs are actually blocks that can be almost anything, from images to tables with sliders and controls. Literally flip the switch and you’re taken to an infinite whiteboard where you can arrange these elements in a more visual way.

AFFiNE is one of the very few open source apps in this space, and some might see its fast-paced development and changes as a sign of instability and unreliability. That said, its free tier is quite generous and its lowest paid tier is also affordable, though you will have to for a different subscription to have access to much-hyped AI features.

What We Like

• Generous free tier.
• Seamlessly blends linear documents and visual blocks.
• Open source software with self-hosting options coming soon.

What We Don’t Like

• Still new and undergoing many changes.
• AI features is a separate subscription.

Miro

Generating and organizing your own thoughts is one thing, but working with others can be quite a different beast. Different designers might have different requirements when it comes to their tools, and keeping everyone on the same page can sometimes feel like herding cats. Miro is built specifically to address the needs of collaboration, but rather than using a boring document or spreadsheet, it offers a lot of flexibility in how you express ideas and tasks.

Designer:

Miro makes working in teams not only more efficient but also a bit more fun. Visualization tools can speak louder than words, especially when they’re interactive and pleasing to look at. It also supports a wide variety of templates so you don’t always have to start a mind map or kanban board from scratch, further reducing time and friction.

This is one of the more mature products on this list and, unfortunately, it is also one of the more complicated and expensive ones. Targeted at creative professionals who mostly work with others, Miro has more disadvantages than advantages for the solo designer. It does have AI features to help condense the complexity, but, again, the pricing could be a little too much for individuals.

What We Like

• Plenty of tools for brainstorming, planning, and documentation.
• Expansive library of templates for different use cases.
• Mature and stable platform with large industry backing.

What We Don’t Like

• More oriented towards visual collaboration than individual ideation.
• Expensive pricing plans

Walling

If you’re looking for a more organized visual representation of your content without becoming a full-blown structured document, then Walling might suit your needs and aesthetic tastes. Using the metaphor of blocks, which it calls “bricks” here, you basically create walls of different types of bricks that include images, videos, text, tables, calendars, and more. And, of course, it also has AI to help you generate ideas and organize them.

Designer:

Unlike a more free-form infinite canvas, these bricks follow a grid-like pattern that makes them look more like neatly laid-out magazines than messy whiteboards. Indeed, Walling actually lets you publish your wall or even just a section of it, practically turning it into a webpage. It’s almost like a website builder, but with a lot more freedom in how you want to lay out your cards.

Although Walling has been around for half a decade now, it has only been recently making waves with its simpler and more straightforward interface compared to bloated visual note-taking apps. In that course of time, it has also adjusted its free tier to be a bit more useful, while its paid offerings are also priced competitively.

What We Like

• Clean user interface and magazine-like document layout
• Publishing walls or sections is a simple click.

What We Don’t Like

• No free-form canvas option.
• Heavy focus on AI features.

Honorable Mentions (or Why Your Favorite App Didn’t Make The Cut)

This list is almost literally just the tip of the iceberg. The so-called PKM space is overflowing with apps with a wide range of designs, capabilities, and target audiences. These might not even be the most popular in the market, but power and popularity don’t always translate to satisfying user experiences.

There are definitely more options available, though not all of them might appeal to designers, artists, and creatives. We’d be remiss if we didn’t mention them, however, because people have different needs and tastes as well. If the previous five didn’t meet your requirements, the following apps could be more to your liking instead.

Notion and xTiles: Superpowered Databases

Databases and spreadsheets were traditionally seen as the purview of executives and IT, but the likes of Notion and xTiles have made them trendy among the productivity-loving crowd as well. In a nutshell, these platforms offer the ability to display the same piece of data in different ways, turning a line in a spreadsheet into a to-do list or a list of links into a grid of images.

Both these apps work on the level of “blocks,” which can almost be anything. Like Walling, they only allow a limited way of arranging these blocks, often in grids or columns. They are extremely powerful, appealing not just to advanced users but also to more creative people who want to bring their analog Bullet Journals to the digital world. All that power and flexibility, however, translates to complexity and, in many ways, visual chaos. It takes a lot of work to actually make good-looking pages, and you might find yourself losing time to that instead of actually doing creative work.

Obsidian and Logseq: Privacy-First, Visuals Second

When people think of note-taking with computers and mobile devices, they most likely think of typed notes first. In this area, Obsidian and its open source rival Logseq are at the top of the food chain, offering the simplicity of text-based documents but with add-ons that go beyond just words. Both, for example, feature whiteboards and canvases where you can arrange and link your notes visually, mixing in some images and files as well.

These apps value the privacy and longevity of the notes above all, which is why they adopted plain text as their primary document format and stored files locally on the device, with options to sync to the cloud at additional cost. These apps have a large treasury of plugins that add dashboards, spreadsheets, interactive elements, and whatnot to the experience, but at the end of the day, they’re still text-based, and that might be a bit limiting to visual note-takers.

MyMind and Google Keep: Pining for Pinterest

Pinterest is quite a popular resource for designers and artists, making its staggered grid (a.k.a. masonry) layout a favorite among those creating mood boards. It’s a simple design that adds visual interest without going overboard, and it’s the kind of layout that some note-taking apps are trying to adopt as well. It removes unnecessary features and distracting designs so you can simply focus on collecting references, jotting down inspiration, and scrolling through your gallery.

MyMind is a particular example of this design. With its simple and clean interface, it feels almost like Milanote but confined to this dynamic grid layout. It doesn’t come cheap, though, and has no free tier, but Google Keep comes close as a poor man’s moodboard option. That said, it really eschews the freedom of expression in exchange for a tidier space, something that could feel a bit suffocating for some users.

The post Top 5 Beautiful Note-taking Apps to Spark Creativity and Enhance Productivity first appeared on Yanko Design.