Engadget review roundup: Dell 14 Premium, Framework Desktop, Sony Theater Bar 6, and more

Engadget Review Roundup: Diving into Dell, Framework, Sony, and More!

As we brace for a wave of new tech from Apple and Google, Engadget’s review team has been busy clearing their backlog, bringing us a fresh batch of in-depth reviews. This roundup covers everything from new laptops and a unique desktop to a soundbar, plus a sneak peek at watchOS 26 and a deep dive into a VPN service. Let’s catch up on some of the top reviews you might have missed recently.

Dell 14 Premium
Dell’s latest laptop, the Dell 14 Premium, has been reviewed by Engadget’s Sam Rutherford. Despite a somewhat confusing new name (it was formerly known as the XPS 14), Sam reports that Dell has kept the core strengths that made its predecessors standout devices. He notes that the Dell 14 Premium retains the sleek design of the XPS 14 while sporting updated 2025 specs, making it one of the top Windows laptops available today.

Framework Desktop (2025)
Known for their innovative modular laptops, Framework has ventured into the desktop space with the Framework Desktop (2025). However, senior editor Daniel Cooper’s review suggests that this first desktop attempt doesn’t quite live up to the modularity and repairability standards of a typical PC. Cooper acknowledges that Framework views this as a ‘side project,’ understanding their reasoning for an all-in-one design, even if it feels like a step back compared to traditional desktop PCs.

Sony Bravia Theater Bar 6
Engadget recently tested the Sony Bravia Theater Bar 6, a mid-range soundbar and subwoofer combo. While it delivers excellent sound quality and clear dialogue, the reviewer pointed out significant drawbacks. Key issues include the inexplicable lack of Wi-Fi, which limits wireless streaming options like AirPlay and Chromecast, and the necessity of using a USB drive for firmware updates, a practice long outdated in the world of modern soundbars.

Lenovo ThinkPad X9-14 Aura Edition
The Lenovo ThinkPad X9-14 Aura Edition, a new addition to Lenovo’s renowned business laptop line, was reviewed by Rami Tabari. While it possesses many classic ThinkPad strengths, Tabari noted concerns regarding its price, a less powerful CPU, and a disappointing keyboard. He suggested that its $1,283 price tag is hard to justify for average consumers given its specs, recommending small business owners wait for a sale or explore other business-focused laptops like the ASUS ExpertBook P5.

watchOS 26 Preview & Norton VPN Review
With new Apple Watches on the horizon, Amy Skorheim from Engadget previewed watchOS 26. She found the new AI workout partner and gestures to be highlights, emphasizing that the overall annual update is made worthwhile by its smaller, thoughtful improvements. Separately, Sam Chapman reviewed Norton VPN as a standalone service. While not inherently poor, he concluded that it struggles to stand out in a competitive market dominated by stronger alternatives like ExpressVPN and Surfshark, noting its main differentiator is simply the Norton brand name.