Nerdytec Couchmaster CYCON2 review: For the couch potatoes
This nifty 'couch desk' is ideal for anyone lacking in space to work or play.
Ideal if you can't find room for a desk, this is the perfect combination with a lounge-based gaming PC.
Images via Nerdytec
I'm very lucky to have a nifty standing desk setup in my home, but with it being tucked away in a cave-like office, I'm always on the lookout for space-saving alternatives for those days when I'd like a little more sunlight.
And, while the CYCON2 from Nerdytec will cost you almost as much as a full-sized standing desk, it does offer a solid experience for anyone tight on space or restricted to the couch or bed.
GGRecon Verdict
The CYCON2 from Nerdytec is a comfortable, but expensive, option for those without the space for a full desk setup at home.
Pros
Well made
Comfortable
Plenty of ports
Cons
This particular model is pricey
Larger laptops may be a squeeze
Are you sitting comfortably?
The main idea of the CYCON2, the company's premium Couchmaster offering, is that it's just as much for work as it is for play.
To that end, this model comes in a sleek black colour with metallic trim. It's pretty sleek, and in terms of assembly, there's basically nothing to do - sit between the cushions that double as armrests, and then lay the 'lapboard' across yourself. At first, I was worried about the idea of there being no attachment between the pieces, but the whole thing feels sturdy unless you're a fidgety worker.
I must admit, despite using a relatively standard-sized laptop (the 15-inch MacBook Air), I didn't feel there was a lot more room to add a chunkier model, which means the CYCON2 feels more geared to a keyboard and mouse setup for your TV at times.
Still, once I adjusted I got plenty of work done (including this very review), and that's before I opened up the underside.
Power to the people
One of the most impressive features of the CYCON2 is the way it packs no fewer than six USB 3.0 ports. You'll find two on the top, letting you quickly charge devices or connect them to the USB hub inside.
By removing some screws on the underside of the lapboard you can access a further four USB ports, and that means you can enjoy a relatively tidy experience even while using wired peripherals.
I'm more of a wireless guy, so I used a keyboard and mouse to play Final Fantasy XIV on my Xbox while relaxing on the sofa. The main cable, which Nerdytec says has been custom-designed for the CYCON2, plugs straight into your PC or console and offers power delivery, too.
That means you can run a single cable solution which is very welcome, or if you're already hooked up via something like a USB hub, you can just keep it wireless for added comfort at the cost of those charging USB ports.
Little details, big difference
The CYCON2 adds a few relatively small features that make a big difference, too. For one, there's a pair of compartments on the side of the armrest/cushion. That's ideal for keeping cables, but I found it perfectly capable of holding a cup of water relatively securely.
It's also positioned in such a way that you naturally lean back a little while playing or working. This helps you from feeling hunched up, relaxing the spine and making it feel pretty ergonomic - as long as your sofa isn't falling apart or something. As a Dad, I also appreciated I could relatively easily stow it when not in use, while the included mousemat is a nice touch, too.
The Verdict
The CYCON2 is a great option for space-conscious workers, particularly if you have a desktop TV hooked up to your main TV.
It's pricey, yes, but offers plenty of value in its connectivity options and small details that it's worth a look - and there are cheaper options available, too.
Review unit provided by the manufacturer. GGRecon uses affiliate links, if you purchase any products from our links we may earn a commission.
Comments
