If your computer suddenly won’t boot, it’s time to troubleshoot the problem. Most guides tell you to take everything, but the CPU and one memory stick out to see if it boots.

That lets you rule out parts like your storage drives and more, but what if the problem is something else?

What if it’s your graphics card that you suspect is giving you issues? How do you boot your computer to test that without having another graphics card on hand?

Can you even boot your computer without a graphics card installed?

So, can you boot your PC without a graphics card?

Short answer: Yes, but don’t expect to see anything on your monitor

See, there’s a reason that your graphics card has the word ‘graphics’ in the name.

It provides the signal out to your monitor, so while you can technically boot your PC without it, you won’t see anything on your screen.

That might be different if your CPU has an integrated graphics card, like most Intel Core chips or AMD’s APU line.

Then you have to move your monitor display cable to the port on your motherboard back panel instead of the ports on the GPU.

That’ll make you be able to boot, see what you’re doing, and hopefully, figure out what the heck is wrong with your graphics card.

Maybe it’s a driver issue, and reinstalling them will fix it. Maybe all it needed was the power cables to be reseated.

So, to answer your question: “Can you boot a PC without a GPU?” Yes. If your computer does not have a graphics card, it will use the built-in graphics capabilities of the processor instead.

What do you think? Carry the discussion over to our Twitter or Facebook.

Editors’ Recommendations:

• Will a computer boot without RAM?
• Will a computer boot without a CPU installed?
• How to choose the right CPU for you – 2020 edition
• How to choose the right RAM for your computer – 2020 edition

The post Will your computer boot without a graphics card installed? appeared first on KnowTechie.

It’s LG’s answer to the Samsung M8 smart monitor, and I want one. Why? Because it’s a complete smart home hub solution that doesn’t need any cables other than one for power.

LG built AirPlay 2 into this bad boy, so you can stream everything you want from Apple devices to it.

The monitor isn’t shabby either, with a 4K resolution on a 32-inch screen running at 60Hz. It also covers 90% of the DCI-P3 color space.

It features two HDMI inputs (one with eARC), dual USB-A ports on the side, an RJ-45 jack for Ethernet, and a powered 65W USB-C port.

It has webOS running on it, LG’s smart TV operating system. You also get ThinQ Home UI for smart home automation.

The LG 32SQ780S also comes with an ErgoStand, that clamps onto your desk. You can adjust the pivot, tilt, and height or spin the monitor into portrait mode.

LG put dual 5W speakers into the monitor, so you can stream your favorite content without needing any other equipment. We don’t yet know if it has Wi-Fi, although we suspect it will, to match the competing Samsung M8.

We’ll likely hear more about this monitor when LG officially launches it. For now, you can put it onto your Amazon wish list, and wait until Amazon opens up orders.

LG Smart Monitor

LG Smart Monitor (32SQ780S)

This $500 4K monitor has a 32-inch screen size, a 60Hz refresh rate, and features AirPlay 2, webOS, ThinkQ Home Dashboard. It also comes with an adjustable ergonomic stand.

See at Amazon

Have any thoughts on this? Carry the discussion over to our Twitter or Facebook.

Editors’ Recommendations:

• Philips Hue now has RGB lighting strips for your monitor
• Samsung’s new QD-OLED monitor will let you stream games to it
• Intel and Samsung show off new ‘slidable’ display prototype
• How to disable the always-on display on iPhone 14 Pro

Just a heads up, if you buy something through our links, we may get a small share of the sale. It’s but one of the ways we keep the lights on here. Click here for more.

The post LG’s new smart monitor features AirPlay 2 and webOS appeared first on KnowTechie.

Samsung Display CEO JS Choi joined Intel on stage to share a look at its new prototype. Choi calls this new device the “world’s first 17-inch slidable display for PC.”

In the video below, you can see what essentially looks like a standard 13″ tablet. But after grabbing and pulling on one side of the display, Choi reveals the sliding mechanism, jumping up to a 17″ display.

Samsung has been pushing the boundaries of display technology in recent years. Its foldable phones have been a big success, with the Galaxy Z Fold 4 and Z Flip 4 coming out earlier this year.

And we thought that Samsung might follow the same route for creating new displays. After all, many others, like Lenovo, HP, and even Apple, are working on foldable displays of some sort.

But it looks like Samsung is headed in a different direction with slidable displays. Of course, this is still an early prototype.

Neither Intel nor Samsung shared details about when we could expect something like this on the market. But the companies are working to ensure that this slidable display works well with your computer.

Have any thoughts on this? Carry the discussion over to our Twitter or Facebook.

Editors’ Recommendations:

• How to disable the always-on display on iPhone 14 Pro
• Xiaomi reveals bulky, $400 smart glasses with an OLED display
• Rumored Apple Watch ‘Pro’ model could have a giant display
• Alienware’s new laptop display has a ridiculous 480Hz refresh rate

The post Intel and Samsung show off new ‘slidable’ display prototype appeared first on KnowTechie.

If you’ve ever been excited to do something on your computer and gone to type something, and nothing happens, you’re not alone.

We’ve all been there asking the eternal question – Why isn’t my wireless keyboard working?

Wireless keyboard connection issues could be from any number of things, from incorrect drivers to interference from other devices.

Wired connections are usually easier to fix, often working if you change the cable or simply by unplugging and plugging the keyboard back in.

Issues with individual keys could mean a physical replacement is in order. However, mechanical keyboards with removable key switches are great because you can swap in a new switch if one goes faulty.

If your keyboard has fixed switches, it’s not easy, and you’ll have to contact your keyboard manufacturer.

We’ll walk you through what troubleshooting steps you can take to fix your wireless keyboard. Most of these steps will work for wired keyboards as well.

How do I fix my wireless keyboard not typing?

The first step in troubleshooting most electronics is checking the power supplied. For wireless keyboards, you want to check the batteries.

Some keyboards use replaceable batteries, and some have inbuilt rechargeable ones.

Low power levels could make your wireless keyboard skip letters, have noticeable input lag, or straight-up not work.

All you need is a USB cable for those with inbuilt batteries to get things running again.

Plug one end into your keyboard and one into your computer, and leave it until it’s charged.

You’ll probably be able to use it while it charges, as the USB cable will pass data to your computer.

If your wireless keyboard uses replaceable batteries, it’s quick to change them out.

Turn your keyboard over, and find the battery door. Open it, take out the dead batteries, and put in fresh ones of the correct size.

Most keyboards we’ve used need AA batteries, but some use AAA, so double-check.

It’s always best to use lithium-ion batteries for electronics, especially those like wireless keyboards that have a higher power draw.

Check the connection

Ideally, all computers would come with built-in Bluetooth or wireless connectivity.

Laptops, Chromebooks, and tablets all have Bluetooth nowadays. So do many desktops, so you might be able to wirelessly connect to any Bluetooth-enabled keyboard.

Some wireless keyboards use their own wireless connection with a supplied dongle.

Logitech, for example, almost always uses one of its Bolt or Unifying dongles with its keyboards and other wireless accessories.

The receiver can also cause problems during operation. If the USB port it’s plugged into is malfunctioning, for instance, the data won’t transmit correctly.

Other devices can also cause interference, such as appliances, electronics, and even other Bluetooth units.

First, try resyncing your keyboard with the wireless dongle. This pairs the wireless keyboard with its dongle again and could solve intermittent problems.

This process differs depending on the make and model of the receiver, but usually, there’s a connect button on the USB receiver that puts it into discovery mode.

That should also start a light flashing on the receiver.

Then press the corresponding Connect button on the keyboard, and you should be connected again.

You’ll want to check out the manual for your wireless keyboard for devices without a Connect button.

If you’re still having issues, try the USB receiver in a different USB port on your computer.

Bluetooth keyboard issues

If your wireless keyboard uses Bluetooth instead of a dedicated dongle, it’s time to head into your device’s settings.

For Windows users

1. Open the Start Menu, then click on Settings

2. Find the Bluetooth entry and make sure the toggle is set to On

Then try your wireless keyboard again. It should start working instantly. If not, you’ll need to keep reading below for additional tips.

For Mac users

On a Mac, to make sure your Bluetooth is turned on, it’s time to head into System Preferences:

1. Click on the Apple Menu icon

2. Click on System Preferences from the menu that drops down

3. Then click on the Bluetooth icon

4. Check Bluetooth is on, and turn it on if not

That covers checking the Bluetooth connection on Mac, but if you use iPhone, iPad, or iPod Touch, keep reading below.

For iPhone, iPad, or iPod Touch users

On iOS, it’s quick to check the Bluetooth status. Here’s how:

1. Swipe down from the top right-hand corner to open Control Center

2. On older iOS devices, swipe up from the center of the screen

3. If Bluetooth is on, the Bluetooth icon will be blue

4. If it’s not on, tap the Bluetooth icon to turn it on

For Android users

Android devices have a quick menu that is only a swipe away. From here, you can see if Bluetooth is on, turn it on if not, and even pair a device.

1. Swipe down from the top of the screen

2. Tap the Bluetooth icon to turn Bluetooth on, if it’s not already on

You can also long-press the Bluetooth icon to start pairing your keyboard in case it forgot the pairing

Your wireless keyboard might need software

Windows users need to install software components called drivers that allow the device to interface and communicate properly.

Most plug-and-play devices, like a keyboard, automatically take care of driver installation, which is why you may not be familiar with the process.

Sometimes, however, the operating system will choose the wrong driver that ends up being incompatible with your device.

Using the wrong driver can cause a whole host of issues, including the keyboard seemingly not working at all.

For Logitech wireless keyboards

All modern Logitech wireless keyboards use Logitech Options as their software package.

This includes a utility to change settings and any drivers you might need.

If your Logitech wireless keyboard isn’t working, follow along

1. Head to Logitech’s Bluetooth or wireless keyboard support page

2. Find your keyboard from the list and click on it

3. Click on Downloads on the page that comes up

4. Download Logitech Options

5. You might also need to download Logi Bolt App, depending on which keyboard you own

6. Install the software

7. Unplug and replug your Logitech dongle

If you’ve tried everything on this page and reinstalled the software, and your wireless keyboard keys still don’t work, it’s time to contact Logitech support.

For Logitech G wireless keyboards

Logitech’s gaming line, Logitech G, uses another software package for its drivers.

1. Head to the Logitech G Hub download page and download it

2. Install the program you just downloaded

3. Unplug and replug your Logitech dongle, so it gets picked up by the software

If you’ve tried everything on this page and reinstalled the software, and your wireless keyboard keys still don’t work, it’s time to contact Logitech support.

For Razer wireless keyboards

Owners of Razer gear only need one program, Razer Synapse. To get it, head on over to Razer’s website.

Some of their keyboards might also need a firmware update.

You can head to this page and click on keyboard in the list to see if your model is mentioned. You’re on the latest firmware if it’s not on the list.

If you’ve installed Synapse, everything is up-to-date, and you’re still having issues, it’s time to talk to Razer support.

For Corsair wireless keyboards

Corsair wireless keyboard owners will need to download Corsair iCUE:

1. Head to Corsair’s Downloads page, and click the download link next to CORSAIR iCUE (it should be the top entry).

2. Install iCUE once downloaded

3. Unplug then replug the wireless adapter for your keyboard to get it to show up

If that doesn’t fix things and you’ve done everything else on this page, it’s time to contact Corsair support.

For Apple Magic Keyboards

Drivers for Apple’s keyboards are packaged in macOS, so you don’t have to download anything.

If you’ve got issues with your Magic Keyboard, you can find many informative troubleshooting articles on their support pages, however:

1. Head to Apple’s website

2. Click on Support at the top-right

3. Search for your keyboard (if your Magic Keyboard is for Mac or iPad) and read the support articles that come up

Still have an issue? It’s time to contact Apple.

Test your wireless keyboard with another computer

You’ve checked the power, you’ve checked the connection, and you’ve checked the software.

If your wireless keyboard is still typing oddly (or not at all), it’s time to try it on another device.

Doing this step narrows the problem down to your wireless keyboard. You might find it still doesn’t work, so it’s time to hit up support for a replacement.

You could also see it types perfectly on the other device, in which case it’s something specific to your machine.

Maybe your Bluetooth receiver is glitching, or the USB port you put the dongle in is failing.

Perhaps you need to fully uninstall the wireless keyboard’s software, reboot, and reinstall it.

If your wireless keyboard still isn’t working

You’ve made it this far, and your wireless keyboard still isn’t typing properly. There’s only one thing to do. That’s to talk to the nice support team of your keyboard brand.

They might walk you through the troubleshooting tips we’ve already outlined, but you can confidently say you’ve already tried those.

If your keyboard is still under warranty, support will set up an RMA and get you a new keyboard. Problem solved.

Some wireless keyboard manufacturers have up to a three-year warranty, so contact them even if you think you’ve owned it for a while.

Now you know what to do if your wireless keyboard stops typing.

You could also go back to a wired keyboard and remove any future issues from happening. Only a thought.

Ever dealt with keyboard issues? What did you do? Let us know down below in the comments or carry the discussion over to our Twitter or Facebook.

Editors’ Recommendations:

• Here’s how to contact a third-party seller on Amazon
• How to boot off all the freeloaders from your Netflix account
• Want to play audio from your iPhone directly on your Mac? Here’s how
• Mechanical keyboards vs. ordinary PC keyboards – which to choose?

Just a heads up, if you buy something through our links, we may get a small share of the sale. It’s one of the ways we keep the lights on here. Click here for more.

The post Wireless keyboard not working? Here’s how to fix it appeared first on KnowTechie.

The enthusiast mouse market has gone for ultra-light models in recent years, like those from Finalmouse and Glorious.

Logitech knows that some gamers prefer a heavier mouse, however, with all three G502 X models weighing 89g or more.

READ MORE: Logitech’s latest webcam can tilt to show the contents of your desk

Logitech built all three around the same core. Additionally, the new casing does have shorter mouse buttons this time around.

These buttons use Lightforce hybrid optical-mechanical switches, with crisp clicks and ultra-low-latency actuation speed. Logitech also used the Hero 25K gaming sensor, the company’s most advanced option.

The two wireless versions use an updated version of Logitech’s proprietary Lightspeed wireless protocol, which the company says gives a 68 percent faster response rate than the last version.

They also feature a removable DPI shift button, making the mouse slower or faster when pressed. It can be reversed to be closer to your thumb or covered by a black cover if you don’t want to use it.

Where they diverge are in connectivity and customization:

• G502 X: Wired, $90, and weighs 89g
• G502 X Lightspeed: Wireless, $140, USB-C charging, weighs 99.7g for the black (101.5g for the white)
• G502 X Plus: Wireless, $160, USB-C charging, Lightsync RGB lighting, weighs 106g

Preorders for all three G502 X models in black and white are available from Logitech.

The wired G502 X is $80 (Logitech | Amazon), the G502 X Lightspeed wireless is $140 (Logitech), and the G502 X Plus wireless is $160 (Logitech | Amazon).

Have any thoughts on this? Carry the discussion over to our Twitter or Facebook.

Editors’ Recommendations:

• Review: Alienware 720M wireless gaming mouse
• Xbox Cloud Gaming will be getting mouse and keyboard support
• What are the typical mechanical keyboard sizes?
• Sony’s PlayStation VR2 headset is coming early next year

Just a heads up, if you buy something through our links, we may get a small share of the sale. It’s one of the ways we keep the lights on here. Click here for more.

The post Logitech’s iconic gaming mouse is getting a huge refresh appeared first on KnowTechie.

Are you constantly plugging and unplugging cables from your laptop to access different devices? If so, you need a USB-C hub.

The EZQuest Ultimate Plus Dual HDMI USB-C Hub is one of the options, but is it worth it? If you ask me, the EZQuest Ultimate Plus Dual HDMI USB-C Hub is absolutely worth the money.

Here’s why: It allows you to connect multiple devices simultaneously, is compatible with both Mac and Windows PCs, and comes with a 1-year warranty. Plus, its sleek design makes it easy to take with you on the go.

Read on for a rundown of the features of the EZQuest Ultimate Plus USB-C Hub and why you should consider buying this product.

What we like about EZQuest’s Ultimate Plus Dual HDMI USB-C Hub

• The dual HDMI ports allow you to connect two monitors at resolutions up to 3840×2160.
• The USB-C port supports Power Delivery (PD) up to 100W, so you can charge your devices while using the hub.
• The USB 3.0 ports support data transfer speeds up to 5Gbps, so you can quickly transfer files.
• The SD and microSD card reader slots let you easily access files stored on memory cards.
• The audio jack lets you connect headphones or speakers for audio playback.
• The anodized aluminum casing helps dissipate heat, keeping the hub cool and preventing it from overloading.

What we didn’t like

• The EZQuest Ultimate Plus USB-C Hub is a bit pricey.
• It has only two USB-C ports, so you’ll need a separate adapter if you want to connect more than two USB-C devices.

TIP: If you need a quick and reliable USB-C card reader, check out this article: This USB-C Card Reader is one of the quickest on the market.

Who Should Buy This?

The EZQuest Ultimate Plus USB-C Hub is ideal for anyone who needs to connect multiple devices to their computer.

It’s especially useful for creative professionals who need to connect multiple monitors or those who need to transfer files quickly.

In addition, the EZQuest Ultimate Plus Hub is a good choice for anyone who wants a sleek and stylish hub that is easy to take with them on the go.

Why Buy the Ultimate Plus Dual HDMI USB-C Hub?

Now that you know more about this EZQuest Hub, it’s time to decide if it’s the right hub for you. Here are some reasons to buy this product:

It Can Connect Multiple Devices

The EZQuest Ultimate Plus Dual HDMI USB-C Hub can connect up to ten devices at the same time. That includes:

• Two HDMI monitors.
• One USB-C device.
• One SD card.
• One microSD card.
• One audio input/output device.

It’s Compatible With Mac and Windows PCs

The Ultimate Plus Dual HDMI USB-C Hub is a great investment for anyone who uses both Mac and Windows PCs.

With this handy hub, you can use your computer with any HDMI-enabled device, including TVs, monitors, and projectors.

Besides, the USB-C port ensures compatibility with the latest computers and laptops. Whether a student or a professional, the Ultimate Plus Dual HDMI USB-C Hub is a great way to get the most out of your computer.

It Has a Sleek Design

The EZQuest Ultimate Plus Dual HDMI USB-C Hub has a sleek and stylish design. The anodized aluminum casing looks great and feels solid.

Plus, the compact design makes it easy to take with you on the go. Whether traveling for business or pleasure, this little device will make your life easier.

It’s Easy To Use

The EZQuest Ultimate Plus Dual HDMI USB-C Hub is straightforward to use. Simply connect it to your computer or laptop’s USB-C port, and you’re ready to go.

Besides, the dual HDMI ports allow you to connect two external monitors. So, you can easily turn your laptop into a powerful workstation.

It’s Fast and Reliable

The EZQuest Ultimate Plus Dual HDMI USB-C Hub is very fast and reliable. It supports high-speed data transfer and can charge your devices quickly.

Plus, it’s built with high-quality components that ensure optimal performance and reliability.

If you’re looking for a fast and reliable USB-C hub, the EZQuest Ultimate Plus is a great option, and I have no issues recommending it.

If the EZQuest Ultimate Plus isn’t right for you, here are some other USB-C hubs we can recommend

• Anker A8346 USB-C Hub: $34.99
• EZQuest USB-C Multimedia 8 Ports Hub: $69.99
• Kensington SD5700T: $349.99
• HyperDrive Mac USB C Hub Adapter: $99.99
• TOTU 11-in-1 USB-C Hub Adapter: $57.99
• Anker 577 Thunderbolt Docking Station: $329.99

Bottom Line

The EZQuest Ultimate Plus Dual HDMI USB-C Hub is an excellent choice for anyone who needs to connect multiple devices to their computer or laptop.

It’s beneficial for creative professionals who need to connect a lot of different devices at the same time.

Plus, the EZQuest Ultimate Plus is very well-built and looks great. Whether you’re a student or a professional, this handy hub is a great way to get the most out of your computer.

The EZQuest Ultimate Plus sells for $169.99 and can be purchased directly on the company’s website, B&H, or Microcenter. Alternatively, Amazon has a listing, but it’s “currently unavailable” at the time of writing.

Have any thoughts on this? Carry the discussion over to our Twitter or Facebook.

Editors’ Recommendations:

• Review: Monoprice Soundstage 3 portable Bluetooth speaker
• Review: Amazon Fire 7 tablet (2022)
• Review: Zeus Arc GTS Vaporizer (3rd Gen)
• Review: Securam EOS Smart Lock

Just a heads up, if you buy something through our links, we may get a small share of the sale. It’s one of the ways we keep the lights on here. Click here for more.

The post Review: EZQuest Ultimate Plus Dual HDMI USB-C hub appeared first on KnowTechie.

Admittedly, this doesn’t quite come as a surprise, as Acer’s Vero laptops are all designed to be eco-friendly and sustainable.

The Chromebook Vero 514 is made from post-consumer recycled materials, making its environmental footprint smaller than similar options.

The latest Acer Chromebook

Acer unveiled the new Chromebook Vero 514 as part of its Green Day announcements. The chassis of the Acer Chromebook Vero 514 contains about 30 percent post-consumer recycled plastic.

In addition, the keycaps and speakers contain about 50 percent of the same recycled plastic. For the touchpad surface, Acer used ocean-bound plastic.

You can easily repair or upgrade the Acer Chromebook Vero 514 because it has removable, standard screws at the bottom, further reducing e-waste.

This means that repairing or upgrading certain aspects should be easier, as many laptops make it difficult to get to specific parts.

This feature-packed 14-inch eco-friendly laptop’s specs will also make you want to keep it for longer without discarding it any time soon.

Key features of the new Chromebook

Acer’s new Chromebook comes has a 14-inch IPS display, 1920×1080 resolution, sRGB 100%, and touchscreen options.

It is powered by Intel processors (Core i3, i5, i7, and Pentium Gold options) with Intel Iris Xe Graphics support.

You’ll also get up to 16 GB of LPDDR4X SDRAM and 256GB PCIe Gen 3 NVMe SSD storage. It also has a 56Wh Li-on battery with an estimated 10-hour capacity.

Additionally, with fast charge, you can go from 0 to 50 percent in 30 minutes. The Acer Chromebook Vero will release in October. It’ll be available in the US at $499, and globally in November at €599.

Have any thoughts on this? Carry the discussion over to our Twitter or Facebook.

Editors’ Recommendations:

• Best back-to-school laptops for college students in 2022
• Apple finally expands self-repair program to cover MacBooks
• Acer shows off new 3D monitors that don’t require glasses
• You’ll soon be able to use your Chromebook as a 5G hotspot

The post New Acer Chromebook is eco-friendly and repairable appeared first on KnowTechie.

The number after each Armada monitor is directly from its screen size. Additionally, both are Nvidia G-SYNC compatible and feature 8-bit IPS screens.

The Armada 25 is a 24.5-inch IPS panel, at 1080p and 240Hz. It is G-SYNC compatible, with a variable refresh rate range of 48-240Hz. It also has a 99% coverage in the sRGB color space and a 400 nits max brightness.

The Armada 27 is a 27-inch IPS panel at 1440p and 165Hz. It is also G-SYNC compatible, with a variable refresh rate of 48-165Hz. It also has a max 400 nits brightness and is certified to HDR400.

READ MORE: Corsair now has a ridiculous, bendable OLED gaming monitor

Both gaming monitors have two HDMI 2.0 ports and a single DisplayPort 1.4.

Armada monitors also come with the Armada Single Gaming Mount, which supports most displays with 75mm or 100mm VESA mounts and the Armada desk mount.

HyperX is also selling the Armada Single Gaming Mount separately. It can support monitors up to 20lbs in weight and can be attached to your desk via a c-clamp or grommets.

The Armada 25 will cost $449.99, and the Armada 27 will retail at $499.99. In addition, the Armada Single Gaming Mount will be $109.99, and the Armada Gaming Mount Addon will be $79.99.

HyperX will be selling both Armada gaming monitors and the two Armada gaming mount accessories starting in September.

Have any thoughts on this? Carry the discussion over to our Twitter or Facebook.

Editors’ Recommendations:

• HyperX’s Cloud Mix Buds are great for people with a lot of devices
• Samsung’s 55-inch Odyssey Ark monitor is available for preorder
• The Lepow C2 monitor is a must-have upgrade for your workstation
• ASUS has a new 4K HDMI 2.1 monitor that’s perfect for gamers

The post HyperX announces new Armada gaming monitor lineup appeared first on KnowTechie.

Abbreviations such as “TKL”, “1800-Compact”, “60”, and more could be turning what should be a simple purchasing decision into an eighth-grade language class.

Like most things, once they’ve been explained to you, they’ll no longer be mysterious symbols and numbers. They’ll be important pieces of information in your buying decisions.

We’ll show you how to make sense of the additional numbers and letters. That will help you find the mechanical keyboard best suited to your needs.

What size mechanical keyboard should I buy?

As you can see in this keyboard size chart above, there are many different mechanical keyboard sizes. We’re covering the most common in this guide, from commercial manufacturers.

Different keyboard sizes might seem strange if you aren’t familiar with the different sizes, but they are quite common. On top of that, different mechanical keyboards work better depending on factors like space, hand size, and more.

Full-size

If your keyboard is sold as full-size, it has the alphanumeric cluster, the navigational cluster, and the number pad, all separated horizontally.

It will also have a row of function keys across the top of the keyboard. Some keyboards have dedicated media keys and controls, such as the Das Keyboard model shown above.

The number of keys will differ depending on which region of the world you live in. American keyboards use the ANSI layout with 104 keys.

European keyboards use the ISO layout with 105 keys, and Japan uses the JIS layout with 108 keys. This used to be the most common keyboard size, but it’s been surpassed by smaller layouts in recent years.

1800-Compact

If you want all the keys from a full-sized keyboard but don’t want to take up as much horizontal space on your desk, the 1800-Compact is for you.

It’s basically a full-sized keyboard. The clusters in the usual navigation column are moved above the number pad, and the arrow keys fit in between the two resulting clusters.

Think of it as keyboard Tetris, just with that T-piece you hate actually fitting into your layout. Great if you don’t want to lose a dedicated number pad, but you also want a little more room for your mouse.

Tenkeyless / TKL

Feel that you don’t want a number pad or that a huge keyboard will take up too much space on your desk? Tenkeyless, also known as TKL, 87%, or 80% is probably the way to go for you.

It’s a popular layout for gamers for that reason. The shorter length of the keyboard gives them more space on their desk for using their mouse.

Its most common form is a full-sized layout without the number pad. That results in either 88 or 87 keys, depending on whether you use ANSI or ISO.

They’re easy to manufacture and adapt to as the layout is the same as full-size. They’re also usually lighter in weight if you transport your keyboard between multiple computers.

75 percent keyboard

Losing keys from the layout isn’t the only way to reduce the size of your keyboard, and that’s how the 75 percent form factor was born. Basically, it’s Tetris at the point where your screen finally clears all the blocks at once.

It’s a form factor that’s gaining popularity, as you can have most of the keys from a Tenkeyless in a much smaller area.

The name “75 percent” comes from the size, with keyboards in this form factor, like the Vortex Race 3 above, taking up three-quarters of the desk space of a full-sized keyboard.

60 percent keyboard

Now we get to the 60 percent form factor, my favorite. It’s usually just the full alphanumeric cluster, without the number pad or the function row from the top.

Sometimes the most-used parts of the navigational cluster, usually the arrow keys and some of the PageUP, PageDown, Del, and Home keys, are also crammed in.

Often, however, those have to be accessed through the Fn key as they get moved onto a second layer.

That change really increases the amount of desk space you can use for your mousing hand while keeping all the keys you need for FPS games easily accessible. Sometimes the arrow keys are kept, making it a 65 percent form factor.

MMO players might want to opt for larger form factors as the F-row gets used for skills.

40 percent keyboard

Now we shrink the keyboard again, down to the 40 percent form factor. The number row disappears to a layer, as keyboard makers have 40 to 48 keys to work with here.

Anything that isn’t a letter key or the most used modifier keys such as Shift, Ctrl, Etc gets moved onto other programming layers. Special keys to navigate those layers are added, like on the Planck EZ we recently reviewed.

This form factor isn’t for everyone, as having to unlearn the usual QWERTY form factor and learn new layers takes time. Adding to the difficulty of relearning how to type is that the 40 percent form factor is often in ortho-linear layout as well.

That’s when the staggered keys you’re used to become nice orderly lines. Great once you get used to it, but not so great for overriding years of muscle memory.

Tenkey (number pad)

Remember how a Tenkeyless is the full-sized form factor without a number pad? Well, the Tenkey is just the number pad.

It’s a bit of a misnomer, as they’ve usually got 21 keys, with all the keys you’d need for inputting figures into a database document or for use as a calculator.

They’re a great addition to your setup if you prefer to use one of the smaller form factors most of the day, with a dedicated number pad in case you actually need it. Plus, it’s a great excuse to buy another keyboard.

It’s all about finding the right keyboard size for you

Now you know all you need to know about the form factors that mechanical keyboards come in.

There are a few niche form factors we’ve not covered here, mainly macro pads with less than 10 keys or purpose-built controllers for games such as OSU!, but for most commercial keyboards, you now know everything you need about form factors.

What do you think? What kind of keyboard is best for you? Let us know down below in the comments or carry the discussion over to our Twitter or Facebook.

Editors’ Recommendations:

• When did mechanical keyboards first come out?
• What is an opto-mechanical keyboard?
• Can you put a keyboard in the dishwasher?
• How many years does a mechanical keyboard last?

Just a heads up, if you buy something through our links, we may get a small share of the sale. It’s one of the ways we keep the lights on here. Click here for more.

The post What are the typical mechanical keyboard sizes? appeared first on KnowTechie.

Both the Alienware M17 R5 and X17 R2 are 17-inch gaming behemoths. Both could already be specified with a range of display types, from 4K 120Hz, 1080p 165Hz, and 1080p 360Hz, with other specs like FreeSync and G-Sync.

Now, you can upgrade the M17 R5 or X17 R2 to the new 480Hz panel. It’s not cheap, however. It costs $300 over the base 1080p 165Hz option.

So what do you get with that price increase? The update scores you a 1080p screen at a 480Hz refresh rate. This screen has a 3ms response rate, 300-nit brightness, and 100 percent coverage of the sRGB color gamut.

High-refresh rate panels have traditionally had to trade color accuracy for speed so that last point is great to see.

The M17 R5 can now be ordered in the AMD Advantage version, as well. This puts the fastest AMD Ryzen mobile processor and the fastest AMD Radeon RX 6-series laptop GPUs together.

Used together, they get some unique capabilities, like shifting power and memory to other components as needed. That’s kind of how things work in the tightly-integrated AMD consoles.

Until ASUS releases its 500Hz refresh rate desktop monitor, this Alienware duo will have the honor of the fastest panel available. We wouldn’t bet against other manufacturers bringing 480Hz to their gaming laptops later this year.

The M17 R5 gaming laptop starts from $1,599.99, with the AMD Advantage versions starting from $2,199.99. The X17 R2 gaming laptop starts at $2,249.99 or $2,549.99 if you want the 480Hz screen. Both are available now.

Have any thoughts on this? Let us know down below in the comments or carry the discussion over to our Twitter or Facebook.

Editors’ Recommendations:

• This new Alienware monitor has a 34-inch curved QD-OLED panel
• Lenovo’s back-to-school laptop deals are too good to be true
• The first-ever RISC-V laptop is now available for preorder
• New M2 MacBook Air appears to have an overheating issue

Just a heads up, if you buy something through our links, we may get a small share of the sale. It’s one of the ways we keep the lights on here. Click here for more.

The post Alienware’s new laptop display has a ridiculous 480Hz refresh rate appeared first on KnowTechie.

At least, we’ll attempt to explain why this is Corsair’s most expensive keyboard. See, the K70 Pro Mini Wireless is essentially the K65 Mini, which sells for $110.

Both keyboards are 60% form factor, which means they have the main alpha keys, but things like the function row are handled by a modifier key. Both have per-key RGB and come with genuine Cherry MX mechanical keyboard switches.

READ MORE: Corsair now has a ridiculous, bendable OLED gaming monitor

The added cost comes from added features. Corsair has added wireless capabilities to the K70 Pro Mini, with three-device Bluetooth and a 2.4GHz dedicated dongle.

That also means an internal battery, which is nice because it removes the hollow sound of Corsair’s wired keyboards.

The biggest addition, however, is hot swap switch sockets. This means you can put any MX-compatible mechanical keyswitches into the K70 Pro Mini Wireless.

Don’t like the linear feel of the MX Red or Speed switches Corsair offers? Buy some from your favorite vendor, pop off the keycaps, and swap in your new switches.

It’s a good thing, but we are concerned about how expensive this mechanical keyboard is. Many other vendors have a similar 60%, wireless keyboard with hot-swap functionality.

Sure, most of those don’t have Corsair’s iCUE software to control lighting effects and other things, but they also don’t have the same price tag.

Has Corsair priced itself out of the mechanical keyboard market with the K70 Pro Mini Wireless? $180 is a high price to pay, but it has some advantages, including the company’s dedication to aftersales service.

Have any thoughts on this? Let us know down below in the comments or carry the discussion over to our Twitter or Facebook.

Editors’ Recommendations:

• These are the best keyboards for gamers, but are they worth the money?
• Xbox Cloud Gaming will be getting mouse and keyboard support
• Keychron’s new keyboard is small but still fits a numpad
• Review: Alienware 720M wireless gaming mouse

Just a heads up, if you buy something through our links, we may get a small share of the sale. It’s one of the ways we keep the lights on here. Click here for more.

The post Corsair’s new gaming keyboard is its most expensive one ever appeared first on KnowTechie.

That dominance looks ever more tenuous. ARM-based processors — once confined to smartphones, embedded systems, and servers — enjoy a significant toe-hold in the PC market. I’m talking about Apple Silicon, obviously. But let’s not overlook Qualcomm’s efforts.

Intel’s processor monopoly is now a duopoly. But are we set for another shake-up? Last week, Chinese startup Xcalibyte opened pre-orders for the world’s first RISC-V laptop, dubbed ROMA.

RISC-V represents a seismic shift in how processors are made and designed. Put simply: it’s a totally open-source design. Whereas chipmakers must pay ARM to use its core design and architecture, RISC-V doesn’t, opening the door to more competition.

Understanding RISC-V

Before we explore the Xcalibyte Roma further, it’s worth exploring what makes RISC-V so interesting.

To do that, we need to understand how ARM makes money. Unlike Intel, ARM doesn’t manufacture its own chips. Instead, it designs the underlying technology and then charges a fee to anyone who wants to use it.

In 2021, ARM made a cool $2.7bn from licenses and royalties. Its customers include Apple, Samsung, Qualcomm, and MediaTek, to name just a few.

Going deeper, ARM has two main business units:

First, we have core designs. Companies like Qualcomm and Samsung pay good money to use the Cortex CPU and Mali GPU designs.

Additionally, ARM licenses the underlying ARM architecture (known as an instruction set architecture, or ISA) to companies that wish to design their own cores.

The most notable example of this is Apple Silicon, which uses the fundamental ARM ISA, albeit with Cupertino’s in-house GPU, CPU, and NPU core designs.

The actual license fees themselves are trivial. They’re pennies. But when you consider that billions of ARM-based processors are sold each year, those pennies add up. Moreover, licensing deals are time-consuming and often restrictive.

RISC-V eliminates those two problems. There are no license fees, nor are there any restrictive terms governing how it’s used. Startups can take the RISC-V ISA and start building.

I previously explored the promise of RISC-V for HowToGeek. Before I move on, I want to add a bit of nuance.

RISC-V is maintained by RISC-V International, a non-profit organization based in Switzerland. Unlike ARM, it doesn’t make core designs. It merely develops the underlying ISA. Companies must either build their own core designs or license one from a third-party company.

The RISC-V laptop

So, let’s go back to the Xcalibyte ROMA.

It goes without saying this targets a small niche — forward thinkers, developers, and free software utopians. The ROMA’s marketing copy points to this, with Xcalibyte describing this as “web3 friendly,” and offering a free NFT for the first 100 buyers.

Xcalibyte offered little else, in terms of technical detail. There’s an unspecified quad-core RISC-V processor, up to 16GB of energy-sipping LPDDRx4 RAM, and a 256GB SSD.

The unnamed SoM (system-on-module) uses both 12nm and 28nm processes, with a dedicated GPU and onboard AI acceleration. Again, we have no benchmarks to gauge how the ROMA will perform. Nor do we know how much it’ll cost.

Given this is likely a low-volume machine aimed at a small market, I’d wager it’ll cost many magnitudes more than an equivalently-performant machine.

But RISC-V is growing. It’s only a matter of time until it starts to make serious inroads into the desktop, server, and mobile markets. This laptop gives developers an opportunity to stay ahead of the curve.

The future of RISC-V

RISC-V is young. The University of California, Berkeley released the first experimental ISA in 2010. By contrast, the Intel or AMD CPU in your laptop has a lineage dating back to the original 8086 microprocessor first released in 1978.

The ARM chipset is younger, but only slightly, with the first example debuting in 1985.

And yet, it already has its users. NVIDIA uses the RISC-V ISA in its GPUs. The Google Titan M2 chip, found in the Pixel 6, uses RISC-V. Seagate is working on RISC-V-based microcontrollers for its storage products.

Not bad for a product that’s barely in middle school.

It’s only a matter of time until RISC-V proliferates within the consumer technology space. It’s not hard to imagine a future where your smartphone or laptop uses a RISC-V chipset. And the Xcalibyte Roma offers us a sneak peek of what that will look like, and how far we’re off.

Have any thoughts on this? Let us know down below in the comments or carry the discussion over to our Twitter or Facebook.

Editors’ Recommendations:

• This new MacBook case turns your laptop into an actual book
• Dell overhauls its XPS 13 2-in-1 laptop with new tablet design
• M2-powered MacBook Air is reportedly coming on July 15
• Apple’s stock MacBook Pro M2 SSD is slower than the M1 model

The post The first-ever RISC-V laptop is now available for preorder appeared first on KnowTechie.

See, the ThinkStation P360 Ultra is under four liters in volume. The Xbox Series X is roughly seven liters, so quick math says it’s almost half the volume.

That’s a ridiculous amount and means the P360 Ultra is even small enough to use as a headphone stand.

Lenovo has put some awesome specifications into this tiny frame. You can spec it with up to an Intel Core i9-12900K CPU, and the mobile powerhouse of the Nvidia RTX A5000 graphics card.

Lenovo achieved this by working closely with Intel and Nvidia to fit these components into the tiny space. Normally, the i9-12900K uses 241W of power. Additionally, the version used in the P360 Ultra is limited to 125W, reducing power consumption and the amount of heat it gives off.

READ MORE: Lenovo’s new ThinkPad X1 Fold features a 16″ folding screen

Similarly, the RTX A5000 is usually a desktop-class card with 24GB of VRAM. The version Lenovo has used is the mobile one, which reduces VRAM to half, and has fewer cores generating heat.

The rest of the specifications are no less impressive. You can get up to 128GB of DDR5 4,000MHz RAM (ECC or non-ECC), and 8TB of NVMe storage (at PCIe 3.0). Connectivity includes two Thunderbolt 4 ports, and 2.5Gbe Ethernet. It’s a true desktop workstation, capable of chewing through any task you’d set it.

READ MORE: Lenovo’s new augmented reality glasses work with the iPhone

Lenovo says the P360 Ultra will be available later this month, starting at $1,299. That base model comes with an Intel Core i3, and if the larger P360 is any indication, the full specification version will be in the region of $6000.

Have any thoughts on this? Let us know down below in the comments or carry the discussion over to our Twitter or Facebook.

Editors’ Recommendations:

• Call of Duty is trolling hackers by making their guns disappear
• The Xbox app will now tell you if your PC can run a game
• The best reveals from Xbox and Bethesda’s Games Showcase 2022
• TCL says new Xbox Series X and PS5 Pro consoles are on the way, but don’t hold your breath

The post Lenovo’s new tiny desktop PC is an Xbox-killer appeared first on KnowTechie.

A good gaming monitor can be a pretty expensive purchase. Even some average-sized 1080P monitors can sometimes set you back well north of $200. But Viotek looks to break the mold of overpriced monitors with its GFI 24-inch gaming monitor.

This 24-inch gaming monitor (model GFI24CBA) features a 144hz refresh rate 1080P IPS panel. It has a 4 ms response time and comes in at just $169.99 on Amazon and the company’s website.

I’ve been using this monitor for a mix of gaming and work over the last couple of weeks. I generally go for 1440P resolution when gaming, so this was a bit of a step back in that regard. But for the price, I’ve been pleasantly surprised by the Viotek GFI24CBA.

Features

When you open the box of the GFI24CBA, you’re greeted similarly to opening any other monitor. There’s the monitor, a stand, a DisplayPort cable, a power cable, and a user manual.

You do technically have to assemble the monitor, though it’s pretty easy to do. There are a few Phillips-head screws that attach the base to the monitor stand. Then, there are four screws that attach the stand to the back of the monitor.

Everything lines up perfectly and assembling the monitor really is a breeze as long as you have a screwdriver handy. Once you’ve done that, you’re ready to hook up the power and start using the monitor.

As I said, the GFI24CBA comes with an HDMI cable that you can use. But there’s also a DisplayPort connection on the monitor that you can use instead. Both options can handle 1080P at 144hz, so as long as you have one of those ports available on your computer, you’re good to go.

The adjustable stand on the GFI24CBA is a huge win for this monitor, considering its affordable price.

The stand adjusts in four different ways: height, angled forward and back, angled left and right, and it even rotates. It will easily rotate 90 degrees so you can use it in portrait mode if you want.

When it comes to performance, this gaming monitor offers a great bang for its buck

Remember, this is a $169.99 monitor, so you’re not getting the best specs, even for 1080P gaming.

But the IPS panel on this monitor is perfectly acceptable, even for competitive games. It features a 144Hz refresh rate with a 4ms response time. That response time is not the best you can get. You can find other 1080P monitors that have a 1ms response time, though they’ll likely be a bit more expensive.

And to be honest, it’s hard to tell a difference between the two. Unless you are a hardcore competitive gamer, you likely won’t be able to tell any kind of difference between 1ms and 4ms. I certainly never noticed any issues, even in competitive games like Valorant and League of Legends.

The color and brightness of the monitor are high points for a monitor of this price. It features a 98 percent sRGB color range, which is perfectly acceptable for a monitor of this caliber. And there are seven different preset viewing modes, so you can easily find a setting that looks best for you.

Personally, I liked using the monitor in “Movie” mode. All of the other modes seemed to have slightly washed-out colors and underwhelming brightness in an attempt to optimize for specific kinds of games.

You can also adjust the picture settings on the GFI24CBA yourself using the single button on the back. Although to be honest, I found that the picture actually looks really good using the preset “Movie” mode.

Should you buy this Viotek gaming monitor?

By now, you probably know that this 24-inch monitor from Viotek isn’t quite top of the line. The majority of gamers looking for the best possible picture quality for today’s PC games are likely looking for 4K or at least 1440P resolution.

And for those looking for more of a competitive edge in multiplayer games at 1080P, they’ll probably be looking to get that response time down to 1ms.

But what you are getting with the Viotek GFI24CBA is a versatile 1080P monitor for a great price. Its adjustable stand makes it a perfect fit for just about anywhere on your desk. You can get a 1080P monitor with an adjustable stand from the bigger brands, like LG, but they’re going to cost you closer to $200.

Where the Viotek GFI24CBA really wins is what you get for the affordable price. It sits on the lower end of the price of 144Hz 1080P monitors at $169.99. The color and picture quality are great for 1080P and the adjustable stand is a huge winner in my book.

I would definitely recommend the Viotek GFI24CBA to those looking for an affordable 1080P monitor. I was pleasantly surprised by the monitor, and think it makes a great option for the gamers out there.

You can get one for yourself from Amazon for $169.99 or from the company’s website for the same price.

Have any thoughts on this? Let us know down below in the comments or carry the discussion over to our Twitter or Facebook.

Editors’ Recommendations:

• Review: The TronSmart Element T6 Plus Bluetooth speaker
• Monoprice Monolith M1000ANC Bluetooth Headphones Review
• Review: GameSir G4 Pro mobile controller
• SteelSeries Aerox 5 wireless gaming mouse Review

Just a heads up, if you buy something through our links, we may get a small share of the sale. It’s one of the ways we keep the lights on here. Click here for more.

The post Review: Viotek GFI24CBA 24-inch gaming monitor appeared first on KnowTechie.

But you don’t have to sacrifice your dream gaming setup to make space for your home office.

If you’re making the switch to a home office, this guide will help you fit gaming and working into one great office space.

Choose the right furniture

The first thing you’ll need for a great gaming-slash-WFH setup is the right furniture. As a general rule, a bigger desk will be better for a multipurpose setup.

After all, you will need room for your gaming PC, which should never go on the floor since it will get clogged with dust down there.

So, opt for a sturdy desk with plenty of surface space. A monitor stand is nice to have, too.

When you’re working from home, your desk chair will either be your best friend or your worst enemy. If you’re going to splurge on any one piece of furniture, make it your chair.

If you do want a racer-style gaming chair, check the reviews to make sure it has good support for your back and shoulders. A cool color scheme alone will not help your posture. So, do your research and invest in the best chair you can afford.

Upgrade your gear

If you’re a gamer, you probably already have some gear you like to use, whether that’s a keyboard or a perfectly weighted mouse.

You might want to make some upgrades for your new home office gaming space, though — particularly keeping these considerations in mind:

• Keyboard: For starters, if you don’t already have a mechanical keyboard, this is the perfect opportunity to pick one up. Building your own is fun, though there are plenty of prebuilt mechanical keyboards with ergonomic designs out there that will work great, too. A mechanical keyboard can be more satisfying to type on while you’re working — plus, it will be more fun for gaming when you’re not on the job.

• Hand and wrist protection: Ergonomic keys and wrist pads are a nice bonus since you’ll be more comfortable typing for long periods and gaming afterward.
• Monitors: If you don’t already have one, opt for a large monitor with adjustable height and tilt. Working from a laptop gets the job done, but it’s not good for your eyes or your posture. Even if a laptop is still your primary gaming and working device, you’ll be doing yourself a favor by investing in an external monitor. You’ll have more screen space and it will be more comfortable to work and game on.

• Mouse: While your ultra-light or custom-weighted gaming mouse might be great for playing your favorite MMO, it might not be the best pick for working. A more ergonomic gaming mouse will be more comfortable to use in slower but longer-duration tasks in your home office.
• Headset: When you’re shopping around for a headset that works well whether you’re on Zoom or Discord, be sure to choose one you can wear for hours on end. Over-ear headphones with an attached microphone are your best bet, especially if they are lightweight with a comfortable strap.

Bonuses that are nice to have for both gaming and working include an extra-large mousepad or desk pad, a gaming or streaming microphone, and a lighting setup.

A strip of RGB lights stuck along the back edge of your desk makes an awesome ambient lighting source that’s great for working and gaming, especially in darker rooms.

Consider the software

Finally, one of the most important parts of a dual-purpose home office and gaming setup is the software on your computer. 

Expert research has shown that remote work greatly increases cybersecurity risks that you wouldn’t run into working in the office, mostly because you’re doing everything from a computer.

Some 43% of WFH employees make mistakes resulting in cybersecurity repercussions — which is particularly easy to do if the computer you use to store sensitive work information is also the one you use in your free time.

Of course, working from home can make you more productive, but you do need to make sure you have good antivirus and antimalware software installed.

If your employer doesn’t have specific communication and video conferencing software you need to use, make sure you stick to secure, reliable programs.

Discord is a great way to go since it has video and voice calling plus texting. And since it’s also hugely popular in the gaming world, you can have your multiplayer group chat and your office update threads all in one place.

Build the perfect gaming and working hub

Building a home office that doubles as a gaming setup is all about choosing gear and furniture that’s great for both work and play.

Gear built for gaming, like high-quality keyboards and headsets, will give you a more comfortable working environment. When it’s time for a break from work, your setup will be ready for a round of your favorite game.

Have any thoughts on this? Let us know down below in the comments or carry the discussion over to our Twitter or Facebook.

Editors’ Recommendations:

• 3 tips to building the ultimate gaming setup
• xScreen turns your Xbox Series S into a portable gaming rig
• Review: SteelSeries Aerox 3 – an ultra-lightweight wireless gaming mouse
• How to setup a Blue Yeti microphone

The post How to build a home office that doubles as a gaming setup appeared first on KnowTechie.

We briefly covered Samsung’s initial announcement in a previous post, but if you need a quick refresher, keep on reading below:

The 32-inch curved 4K Odyssey Neo G8 features Quantum Mini-LEDs, which produce higher levels of brightness and color than conventional LED TVs. It also features Quantum HDR 2000, with a 2,000 nit peak brightness and a million-to-one static contrast ratio.

The Odyssey Neo G8 gaming monitor is compatible with AMD’s FreeSync Premium Pro and Nvidia’s G-Sync. In addition, the monitor supports HDR10+ and comes with two USB ports, DisplayPort and an HDMI port.

READ MORE: Samsung Family Hub fridge owners can soon channel surf

The Neo G8 provides a 240Hz refresh rate and an ultra-low 1ms response time, which is faster than any other 4K gaming monitor on the market. The monitor received a Best of Innovation award at CES 2022 for this feature alone.

The 1000R curvature and its wide field of view make the monitor fill your gaming space with a wonderfully immersive experience that takes advantage of your peripheral vision.

Samsung is also introducing a new display technology called Matte Display. The features provide anti-glare and anti-reflection protection, keeping users focused on the game in front of them.

“Gamers ultimately desire that immersive experience in unity with their character and scene, and the Odyssey enables this with superior features and lifelike picture quality to give players a thrill,” Samsung notes in a recent press release.

The 32″ Samsung Neo G8 gaming monitor is now available and can be purchased directly from Samsung or Best Buy for $1,499.

Have any thoughts on this? Let us know down below in the comments or carry the discussion over to our Twitter or Facebook.

Editors’ Recommendations:

• Samsung, Apple among companies with stagnant production in 2022
• Samsung’s Neo QLED 4K QN95B is now available to preorder
• Samsung Galaxy Watch 4 finally gets Google Assistant
• Reserve Samsung’s Odyssey Neo G8 gaming monitor and save $50

Just a heads up, if you buy something through our links, we may get a small share of the sale. It’s one of the ways we keep the lights on here. Click here for more.

The post You can now buy Samsung’s new Odyssey Neo G8 gaming monitor appeared first on KnowTechie.

Announced during its annual Build developers conference, the mini-PC looks awesome. The space gray case reminds us of another Arm-based device, the M1-powered Mac mini. No aluminum here though, Microsoft made this case out of recycled ocean plastic.

Oh, and the mini-PC runs Windows 11. It’s not a consumer product, unfortunately, however much you want one. It’ll be sold, or maybe rented, to developers to build Arm apps and support Windows on Arm.

Maybe this could also mean Windows 11 support on the other well-known Arm-powered devices, that of Apple’s M1-powered Macs.

Apple ditched Boot Camp, which let you dual-boot into Windows when the M1 Macs arrived. Being able to develop Arm-native Windows apps might be what’s needed to bring it back.

Introducing Project Volterra… #Rad pic.twitter.com/llU73ih5A8

— Panos Panay (@panos_panay) May 24, 2022

Of course, development hardware is useless without the tools to run on it. Microsoft also announced a full end-to-end Arm-native toolchain, so developers can make native Arm apps. It includes:

• Full Visual Studio 2022 & VSCode
• Visual C++
• Modern .NET 6 and Java
• Classic .NET Framework
• Windows Terminal
• WSL and WSA for running Linux and Android apps

Microsoft says a preview of the devkit’s tools is coming “in the next few weeks.” That’s also when developers can find out how to get the Project Volterra development hardware.

Have any thoughts on this? Let us know down below in the comments or carry the discussion over to our Twitter or Facebook.

Editors’ Recommendations:

• Apple, Microsoft, and Google are working on a passwordless future
• Uninstall this Windows 11 update if your apps are crashing
• Microsoft Edge is now the second most popular desktop browser
• Apple will launch AirPods Pro 2 later this year, but still no USB-C

The post Microsoft is working on its own version of the Mac mini appeared first on KnowTechie.

The new MX Mechanical keyboards use Kailh’s Choc V2 mechanical switches. That means a choice of tactile quiet brown switches, clicky blues, or linear reds.

They’re low-profile, so they’re closer to Logitech’s membrane keyboards in height and keystroke length.

READ MORE: Logitech’s latest webcam can tilt to show the contents of your desk

Both keyboards are wireless, with up to 15 days of battery life with the backlight on, or a staggering 10 months if you turn off the lights.

Logitech added sensors to check if your hands are near the keyboard, which turn the backlighting off if they’re not.

READ MORE: Logitech’s new inclusive gaming accessories are nice but expensive

READ MORE: Review: Truly Ergonomic CLEAVE keyboard

The MX Mechanical is a traditional full-sized 104-key keyboard, while the MX Mechanical Mini is more compact, with only 80 keys. That’s pretty much every key except the numpad.

Time for a new Logitech mouse?

READ MORE: Keychron’s new keyboard is small but still fits a numpad

The MX Master 3S appears to be a refresh of the existing MX Master 3 mouse. It’s got quieter click buttons, and a more sensitive sensor.

It also now uses Logi’s Bolt USB dongle, a more secure version of Bluetooth LE for those companies that block the protocol used on the previous Unifying receiver.

As it’s otherwise essentially the same mouse, expect a right-handed, sculpted ergonomic shape, and scroll wheels for up/down and left/right.

READ MORE: Logitech’s iconic gaming mouse is getting a huge refresh

The new Darkfield sensor is at 8,000 DPI, twice the resolution of the previous device. Logitech also says the new click buttons are 90 percent quieter than the MX Master 3.

The Logitech MX Master 3S comes in Black, Graphite, or Pale Gray for $99.99. The MX Mechanical is $169.99, and the MX Mechanical Mini is $149.99.

All three models are available from Logitech, with free shipping. A bundle with the MX Master 3S and MX Mechanical and a desk mat is $269.98, or one with the MX Mechanical Mini is $249.98.

Have any thoughts on this? Let us know down below in the comments or carry the discussion over to our Twitter or Facebook.

Editors’ Recommendations:

• Logitech’s new mechanical keyboards go back to the basics
• Review: SteelSeries Aerox 5 wireless gaming mouse
• What are the quietest mechanical keyboard switches?
• AMD announces its new Ryzen 7000 desktop processor range

Just a heads up, if you buy something through our links, we may get a small share of the sale. It’s one of the ways we keep the lights on here. Click here for more.

The post Logitech launches new low-profile mechanical keyboards appeared first on KnowTechie.

It’s the end of an era and the start of a new one. See, the Ryzen 7000 range will be AMD’s first CPU in five years that needs a new socket. That’s the AM5 socket, which brings PCIe 5.0 support and other improvements.

These are the first desktop chips to use a 5nm process and they’re also able to boost over 5GHz, with AMD showing a 5.5GHz clock speed during the presentation.

That’s on par with Intel’s flagship i9-12900KS, a commendable feat for AMD which has been chasing performance and not clock speed with prior generations.

The biggest boost might not be the clock speeds, but the “greater than 15 percent” faster single-threaded performance over the Zen 3 (Ryzen 5000). Many games and applications still require only a single core, so this will improve your desktop experience.

The other interesting thing about Ryzen 7000 is that every chip will have some level of integrated graphics. That means you will only need a dedicated graphics card for intensive applications or games.

That also means you’ll be able to get your system running (or keep it running) if you’re waiting for a GPU to arrive. That’s no small thing, as GPU scarcity due to cryptomining and supply chain slowdowns is still a real issue.

The AM5 platform means you’ll need a new motherboard

Motherboards for AM5 will come from one of three tiers, depending on what you need to do with them:

• X670 Extreme: Extreme overlocking, PCIe 5.0 on everything
• X670: Enthusiast overclocking, PCIe 5.0 on storage, optional on graphics
• B650: Mainstream pricing, PCIe 5.0 on storage

That means you’ll get at least one NVMe m.2 storage slot on every tier, for super-speedy PCIe 5.0 SSDs. AMD says this is 60-percent faster in sequential reads than PCIe 4.0, so we’re excited. Paired with Microsoft’s DirectStorage, this could mean 1-second loading times in some titles.

All three tiers have up to 24 lanes of PCIe 5.0 bandwidth, and up to 14 USB 3.x ports. Some of those ports will support 20Gbps and USB-C. The motherboards can also have up to four display outputs, with a mix of HDMI 2.1 and DisplayPort 2.

Will AM5 get the long-term support that the outgoing AM4 platform got from AMD? That has a special place in my heart, as I was at the New Horizon release event in 2016.

AMD has put five generations of Ryzen processors in five years into the AM4 platform. We can only hope they’ll do the same level of support with AM5.

While we know a lot about the upcoming CPUs, AMD didn’t mention specific model numbers, pricing, or release dates. We’ll let you know more as soon as we get details, ahead of the fall release window.

Have any thoughts on this? Let us know down below in the comments or carry the discussion over to our Twitter or Facebook.

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The post AMD announces its new Ryzen 7000 desktop processor range appeared first on KnowTechie.

The first device is the latest in the Predator gaming laptop line. The Predator Helios 300 SpatialLabs Edition brings glasses-free 3D to the PC gaming world, in much the same way that the Nintendo 3DS brought it to the mobile gaming world.

The special screen uses a 2D UHD display panel with a special lens in front of it to switch between 2D and 3D content. That currently works with over 50 games, with Acer adding support for more as time goes on.

The rest of the laptop is similarly high-end, with up to a 12th-gen Intel Core i9-12900H CPU, up to 32GB of DDR5 RAM, and up to an Nvidia RTX 3080 laptop GPU.

Connectivity is handled by Thunderbolt 4, three USB-A 3.2 (Gen 2) ports, HDMI 2.1, Ethernet, a Mini DisplayPort, and a 3.5mm audio port. Oh, and it’s got an Intel Killer Wi-Fi 6E 1675i card with Killer DoubleShot Pro, and an eye-tracking camera.

Glasses-free 3D from Acer

The best use for this glasses-free 3D tech isn’t gaming. At least, not in our opinion. Sure, it’s done well for Nintendo’s 3DS line, but the retail applications are even more interesting.

Current retail uses for 3D images are pretty bad. 360-degree views of rendered products just fall flat of the mark on a 2D screen. Imagine seeing those same products in 3D, without needing special glasses, thanks to Acer’s SpatialLabs tech.

This idea ties in directly with Acer’s other new offerings, the SpatialLabs View and View Pro monitors. Both have 4K, stereoscopic screens, and both have 400-nit brightness and 100 percent coverage of the Adobe RGB gamut.

The biggest difference between the two is that the Pro has Ultraleap hand tracking, for interacting with the 3D models in a professional environment.

The Acer Predator Helios 300 SpatialLabs Edition is launching “early Q4” with a starting price of approximately $3,400. The SpatialLabs View and SpatialLabs View Pro portable monitors release this summer, with pricing to be announced.

Have any thoughts on this? Let us know down below in the comments or carry the discussion over to our Twitter or Facebook.

Editors’ Recommendations:

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The post Acer shows off new 3D monitors that don’t require glasses appeared first on KnowTechie.