Laptop Care

Apple M4 iMac: The Best All-in-One Gets a Lot Faster

noreply@blogger.com (Dede Suhaya) — Mon, 09 Dec 2024 13:02:00 +0000

Apple M4 iMac: The best all-in-one gets a lot faster

Apple's iMac 2024.* foto:Engadget

The 2024 iMac looks the same as ever, but there’s an update that promises to dramatically transform the lineup. The boost in base memory that finally lifts the entry-level models from a deplorable 8GB to 16GB. That, along with the new chips, promises to finally make the $1,299 iMac cost effective for most buyers.

The key updates are inside with the M4 processor, which is available in two variants. The base $1,299 model comes with an 8-core CPU, 8-core GPU, 16GB of RAM, 256GB of storage and two Thunderbolt 4 ports. All other versions have 10-core CPUs, 10-core GPUs and four Thunderbolt ports, starting at $1,499 with 16GB of RAM and 256GB of storage. There’s no M4 Pro option, and therefore no Thunderbolt 5 ports on any 2024 iMac. Every version but the base model also has gigabit ethernet (on the power brick) and Touch ID on the Magic Keyboard. (Engadget)***

Pros:

Powerful M4 processors
16GB of RAM comes standard
Much improved webcam
Nano-textured display option

Cons:

Upgrades still too expensive
Needs more screen size options
No vertical height adjustment

Price:

$1,199 at Amazon

$1,249 at Adorama

M4 MacBooks: Rumor About the Next Apple Laptops

noreply@blogger.com (Dede Suhaya) — Mon, 19 Aug 2024 09:24:00 +0000

Apple's lineup of laptops.* Photo: Mashable

The next crop of M4 Macs are coming soon, according to Apple leaker Mark Gurman. The first group of M4 Macs are reportedly due later this year (while a few other sets are dropping next year).

Let's take a look at all the leaks and rumors we've been hearing across all the Macs.

Just like the M3 MacBooks that debuted during last October’s "Scary Fast" event, we’re anticipating the following M4 MacBook models this year: 14-inch MacBook Pro with M4 (cheapest), 14-inch MacBook Pro with M4 Pro, 14-inch MacBook Pro with M4 Max, 16-inch MacBook Pro with M4 Pro, 16-inch MacBook Pro with M4 Max (priciest).

Apple reports that the M4 processor is 50% faster than the M2 CPU and boasts a four-fold increase in rendering performance.

According to an April report from Gurman, the next MacBook Pro will launch sometime later this year. While he didn’t provide an exact date, it’s expected to arrive before the M4 MacBook Air, which is slated for a spring 2025 release.

This aligns with a rumor from Ross Young, another well-regarded analyst. Young shared on his subscriber-only feed on X (formerly Twitter) that Apple fans can expect an M4 MacBook Pro release ‘later this year.’

Historically, Apple has held Mac events in October or November, making it likely that the new M4 MacBook Pro will be unveiled during that timeframe. However, as BGR noted, October seems to be the most probable date.

According to Gurman, the entry-level M4 14-inch MacBook Pro will be released first, followed by the new 14-inch and 16-inch MacBook Pro models featuring the more powerful M4 Pro and M4 Max chips, likely at the end of 2024 or early 2025.

There haven’t been any design rumors about the M4 MacBook Pro, but a major overhaul seems unlikely. According to MacRumors, Apple is planning a future MacBook launch with a new OLED display, though this isn’t expected until 2026.

According to Gurman, Apple is working on new M4 MacBook Air models, but they won’t be released until next year.

New 13.6-inch and 15-inch M4 MacBook Air models are likely to launch sometime next spring. (Mashable)***

Alienware m16 R2, Gaming Laptop with a Sleeker Design & Affordable Price

noreply@blogger.com (Dede Suhaya) — Thu, 20 Jun 2024 13:01:00 +0000

Alienware m16 R2 Photo: PCMag

The Alienware m16 R2 is a rarity among modern laptops. That’s because normally after a major revamp, gadget makers like to keep new models on the market for as long as possible to minimize manufacturing costs. However, after its predecessor launched last year sporting a fresh design, the company reengineered the entire system again for 2024 while also limiting how big of a GPU can fit inside. Alienware was able to rework the m16 into a gaming laptop with a sleeker design, it’s more compact, has longer battery life and a more affordable starting price than before.

The m16 R2 has a single display option: a 16-inch 240Hz panel with a QHD+ resolution (2,560 x 1,600). It’s totally serviceable and for competitive gamers, that high refresh rate could be valuable during matches where potential advantage matters. (Engadget)***

Specs:
Processor: Intel Core Ultra 7 155H
RAM: 16 GB
Boot Drive: SSD 1 TB
Screen Size: 16 inches
Display Resolution: 2560 x 1600
Graphics Processor: Nvidia GeForce RTX 4070 Laptop GPU
Graphics Memory: 8 GB
Tested Battery Life: 10:14
Price: $1,299.99 at Dell

MSI Cyborg 15, Best Budget Gaming Laptop

noreply@blogger.com (Dede Suhaya) — Mon, 13 May 2024 14:49:00 +0000

Cyberpunk 2077 on the MSI Cyborg 15.* Photo: Mashable

At $999, the MSI Cyborg 15 delivers a fine balance of just what you need in its price class. It smartly uses modern entry-level parts in the right combination to provide a decent 1080p gaming experience. The 13th Gen Intel Core i7 CPU and Nvidia GeForce RTX 4050 GPU, are cutting-edge components in this price range and ensure steady frame rates even at high settings. The build is sturdy enough, and the battery life is respectable, too.

Recommend this system to average gamers shopping on a budget. Many of us can't spend more than $1,000 on a system, and this sits right at that limit. As long as you set your expectations reasonably, this is a smart pick for those seeking a top-end value and steady performance. The upsides are clear for the cost, and the concessions aren't deal-breakers, though some buyers may chafe against the 512GB storage. (PC Mag)***

ASUS Zenbook Duo : The First Real Dual-Screen Laptop

noreply@blogger.com (Dede Suhaya) — Sun, 05 May 2024 14:31:00 +0000

ASUS Zenbook Duo.* Foto: Endgadget

Almost every major PC maker has dabbled with the idea of a dual-screen laptop at some point. But now after several generations of its own devices, ASUS has put everything together with the Zenbook Duo. It’s a super sleek machine with two screens that’s barely larger than a similarly sized clamshell. There’s also a detachable keyboard and a built-in kickstand for maximum adaptability. And starting at $1,500, ASUS has finally made a dual-screen laptop that proves once and for all that two screens really are better than one.

Zenbook Duo isn’t much bigger or heavier than a typical clamshell. It weighs 3.6 pounds and measures 0.78 inches thick versus the 2.82 pounds and 0.59 inches for a standard Zenbook 14 OLED.

The centerpiece of the Duo is its pair of 14-inch displays. Not only do the matching OLED panels offer strong brightness (around 500 nits), they also pump out rich and accurate colors (100 percent of DCI-P3).

The Zenbook Duo comes with an Intel Core Ultra 7 155H processor, 16GB of RAM and a 1TB NVMe SSD. While you can upgrade it with double the memory and a faster Ultra 9 chip. (Engadget)

2024 iPad Air: New Features Coming to the New Apple Tablet

noreply@blogger.com (Dede Suhaya) — Wed, 24 Apr 2024 14:27:00 +0000

iPad Air 2024.* Foto: Mashable

2024 iPad Air: New Features Coming to the New Apple Tablet

The iPad Air 2024 is arguably the most highly anticipated tablets of the year. It also may be one of the most delayed consumer products of 2024.

The new iPads — both the Air and Pro models — were poised to be released in March (perhaps alongside the new M3 MacBook Air), according to DigiTimes, which cited Apple's suppliers. However, it has been frequently pushed back throughout March and April.

The iPad Air 2024 is arguably the most highly anticipated tablets of the year. It also may be one of the most delayed consumer products of 2024.

The new iPads — both the Air and Pro models — were poised to be released in March (perhaps alongside the new M3 MacBook Air), according to DigiTimes, which cited Apple's suppliers. However, it has been frequently pushed back throughout March and April.

The iPad Air is reportedly poised to drop on May 7. On Tuesday, April 23, Apple announced that it will launch a May 7 livestream.

During this event, you'll probably see the new iPad Air as well as the iPad Pro.

Gurman's reporting validates this; he said that the iPad Air is due to drop some time during the week of May 6.

The iPad Air, alongside the iPad Pro, has been reportedly delayed throughout March and April, according to DigiTimes. However, it seems like Apple finally has the iPad Air release date written in stone.

Like Macworld, we're expecting the iPad Air 2024 to launch its 10.9-inch variant at $599, similar to its current-gen model.

However, it's trickier to predict the price of the rumored new 12.9-inch version. MacRumors says it will be $200 more, putting the 12.9-inch model at $799. (Mashable)***

Asus ROG Strix XG16AHPE, Best Portable Monitor for Gaming and Media Watching

noreply@blogger.com (Dede Suhaya) — Sun, 14 Apr 2024 14:18:00 +0000

Asus ROG Strix XG16AHPE, Best Portable Monitor for Gaming and Media Watching

Whether you're a traveling exec, a gamer, or a graphic designer, a portable second monitor can add an extra dimension to your work or play. The Asus ROG Strix XG16AHPE 15-inch mobile monitor has no critical omissions. The display packs in a wealth of gaming features, such as a high refresh rate, Nvidia G-Sync compatibility, and low input lag.

The monitor also offers a built-in battery, speakers, and a kickstand. Good brightness and a relatively high contrast ratio round out its list of talents. Its excellent sRGB coverage is less critical for gamers, but just adds to its appeal as an all-around portable entertainment monitor.

The Asus ROG Strix XG16AHPE is a formidable, well-rounded portable display for gamers and multimedia buffs. Its excellent sRGB color coverage makes it a good choice for viewing photos and video. (PCMag)***

Specs:

Panel Size (Corner-to-Corner)
15.6 inches

Native Resolution
1920 by 1080

Aspect Ratio
16:9

Price

$449.99 (Amazon)

Lenovo’s Project Crystal is the World’s First Laptop with a Transparent Display

noreply@blogger.com (Dede Suhaya) — Tue, 27 Feb 2024 12:54:00 +0000

Lenovo's Project Crystal.* Photo: Engadget

It’s not often you encounter a device that looks like it came straight out of a movie set. But Lenovo’s Project Crystal, supposedly the world’s first laptop with a transparent microLED display, is an example of sci-fi come to life.

Currently there are no plans to turn Project Crystal into a retail product. Instead Lenovo’s latest concept device was commissioned by its ThinkPad division to explore the potential of transparent microLED panels and AI integration. The most obvious use case would be sharing info somewhere, like a doctor’s office or a hotel desk. Instead of needing to flip a screen around, you could simply reverse the display via software, allowing anyone on the other side to see it while getting an in-depth explanation.

The best thing about Project Crystal, is that Lenovo bothered making it at all. Currently, even standard microLED displays are extremely expensive with those panels typically reserved for cutting-edge gadgets like Samsung’s The Wall or Apple’s Vision Pro. And, see-through versions have only been seen as concepts like on the transparent microLED TV Samsung showed off a couple of months ago at CES 2024.

Project Crystal is a solution in search of a problem. A problem that does exist in niche situations and may be an issue worth tackling more seriously down the line. But more importantly, it’s challenging us to think about what is possible with emerging display technology and how it might fit into a laptop of the future. (engadget)

Panasonic Toughbook 40 Best Rugged Laptop

noreply@blogger.com (Dede Suhaya) — Sat, 03 Feb 2024 12:07:00 +0000

PC Mag

Dustproof and immune to splashes and strong jets of water

Panasonic Toughbook 40 Best Rugged Laptop - The Panasonic Toughbook 40 is an almost indestructible, ultra-customizable 14-inch armored data carrier. It's fully rugged, which puts it in a class above semi-rugged systems like its 14-inch peers the Dell Latitude 5430 Rugged and Panasonic's own Toughbook 55 Mk2. The Toughbook 40 can take a six-foot fall and carries MIL-STD 810H, MIL-STD 461G, and IP66 ratings—it's dustproof and immune to splashes and strong jets of water, though it can't survive actual immersion underwater as some smartphones can.

Heavy and expensive

All of the ruggedization makes the Toughbook 40 heavy and expensive, of course. Expect to pay north of $4,000 for this 7-pound brute if you're buying a single laptop. But nearly everyone who buys the Toughbook 40 isn't just buying one. They're buying a fleet for a police force, line technicians, or other similar organizations, which typically means significant discounts. (PC Mag).***

Specs:

Processor: Intel Core i7-1185G7, 3 GHz

RAM: 64 GB

Drive: SSD 1 TB

Screen: Touch Screen 14 inches; Resolution: 1920 by 1080

Graphics Processor: Intel Iris Xe Graphics

Wireless Networking: 802.11ax (Wi-Fi 6), Bluetooth

Dimensions: 2.1 by 13.9 by 11.9 inches

Weight: 7.4 lbs

Operating System: Windows 11

Battery Life: 27:24

Price: $5,027.00 Amazon, $4,899.00 Panasonic

HP Pavilion Plus 14, The Best Laptops for 2024

noreply@blogger.com (Dede Suhaya) — Mon, 15 Jan 2024 14:05:00 +0000

Laptop HP Pavilion Plus 14. PC Mag*

HP Pavilion Plus 14, The Best Laptops for 2024. AMD-powered take on HP's Pavilion Plus 14 is just as worthy of your consideration as last year's Intel variety, with a dashing display and sharp webcam, lots of ports, speedy performance, and lengthy battery life in a 3-pound package.

And that screen also comes rocking stunning OLED technology for top-notch color and contrast.

Providing all of this for a decent price that's often reduced on sale earns the HP Pavilion Plus 14 its spot back atop our rankings of the best overall laptops for general use.

If you can nab one on a special or a deal, you'll score one of the top productivity partners you can bring to school or work, with punchy performance and a gorgeous screen for all sorts of work and play.

Let the Pavilion Plus 14 be your first stop if you need something that's both powerful and feature-rich without costing a mint. (PC Mag)***

Specs:

Processor: AMD Ryzen 7 7840U

RAM: 16 GB

Boot Drive Capacity: 1 TB

Screen Size: 14 inches

Display Resolution: 2880 x 1800

Graphics Processor: AMD Radeon 780M

Tested Battery Life: 14:16

Acer’s Predator Triton Neo 16 Has Intel Core Ultra Processors Available in March

noreply@blogger.com (Dede Suhaya) — Sat, 23 Dec 2023 13:26:00 +0000

Acer just unveiled the Predator Triton Neo 16 gaming laptop which features Intel’s Core Ultra processors or Meteor Lake. These CPUs boast a dedicated Neural Processing Unit (NPU) for advanced AI performance. The chips prioritize efficiency and speed, with Intel promising that graphics will be twice as fast when it comes to performance per watt, among other intriguing metrics.

There’s the Core Ultra processor, with availability up to i9, but you can also outfit it with a powerful GPU, up to the NVIDIA GeForce RTX 4070. This combination allows for AI-optimized visuals when playing games with advanced ray tracing, thanks to NVIDIA’s DLSS 3.5 technology.

There are several 16-inch display options here, offering up to a 3.2K resolution with a 165Hz refresh rate and a 16:10 aspect ratio. These screens take advantage of a DCI-P3 100% color gamut and offer support for NVIDIA G-Sync and Optimus, for sharper colors and tear-free frames.

This laptop has spec up to 32GB of LPDDR5X system memory and up to 2TB PCIe Gen 4 SSD storage. Also offer access to Acer’s proprietary Purifier Voice 2.0 technology, which combines AI-driven noise reduction and beam-forming to keep communications clear during fast-paced multiplayer sessions. The Predator Triton Neo 16 will be available in March, starting at $1,500. (engadget)***

7 Best Chromebooks for Gaming in 2023

noreply@blogger.com (Dede Suhaya) — Thu, 14 Dec 2023 11:59:00 +0000

Acer Chromebook 516 GE.*/Best Buy

With Android games by the thousands—and, now, Steam for ChromeOS a thing—credible gaming on Chrome laptops and tablets is suddenly a reality. These are top recommended Chromebooks for play.

1. Acer Chromebook 516 GE

Acer's rousing Chromebook 516 GE is among the first Chromebooks designed specially for cloud-based gaming. Superb performance in gaming, powerful hardware for a Chromebook,

RGB keyboard with anti-ghosting tech.

Price: $564.99 at Amazon

2. Acer Chromebook Spin 714

With a new display and a garaged stylus, Acer's latest Chromebook Spin remains absolute top Chromebook pick—despite losing the microSD slot and still being a little hefty. Roomy 14-inch, 16:10 display, durable all-metal chassis, and 1080p webcam with physical cover.

Price: $699.00 at Amazon

3. Lenovo Flex 5i Chromebook Plus

Lenovo's Flex 5i Chromebook Plus is an affordable 2-in-1 that showcases the Chromebook Plus generation with speedy performance and flashy features at a reasonable price. Above-average ChromeOS performance.

Price: $499.00 at Best Buy

4. Lenovo IdeaPad Gaming Chromebook

The Lenovo IdeaPad Gaming Chromebook is a better-than-average ChromeOS laptop, but the real treat is that it's made for cloud gaming services. Have excellent gaming performance.

Price: $699.99 at Lenovo

5. Acer Chromebook Vero 514

Acer's Chromebook Vero 514 is a speedy and partly recycled eco-warrior, but its Core i7 configuration is too expensive for a Chromebook. Speedy performance and complete with

HDMI, USB-A, and USB-C ports.

Price: $775.99 at Amazon

6. Lenovo Flex 3 Chromebook

The Lenovo Flex 3 Chromebook is a highly affordable 2-in-1 with a charming design, a responsive touch screen, and a helpful array of ports. However, its plastic construction and lackluster performance call for compromise.

Price: $349.00 at Best Buy

7. Framework Laptop Chromebook Edition

The Framework Laptop Chromebook Edition puts a Google spin on the company's signature repairable, modular design. One of the most capable, customizable ChromeOS notebooks you can buy.

Price: $999.00 at Framework

Source: PCMag

Lenovo Yoga 9i Gen 8, Best Touchscreen Laptops 2023

noreply@blogger.com (Dede Suhaya) — Mon, 27 Nov 2023 13:22:00 +0000

Future

The best touchscreen laptops are highly responsive to your touches, swipes and taps. Additionally, they support stylus input for digital drawing and note taking. As a cherry on top, they should treat your eyes to stunning, vibrant colors and offer adequate brightness.

Traditional laptops with touchscreens are great, but if you really want the full benefits of touch support, buy one of the best 2-in-1 laptops, Lenovo Yoga 9i 2-in-1.

Lenovo Yoga 9i 2-in-1 features 14-inch, OLED touchscreen display, adding that its stunning 2,800 x 1800 panel has gorgeous color depth. It also has a zippy SSD with extremely fast, prominent speakers, and great battery life 10 hours. (Laptopmag)

Specs:

Price: $1,699
CPU: Intel Core i7-1360P
GPU: Intel Iris Xe
RAM: 16GB LPDDR5
Storage: 512GB SSD
Display: 14-inch, OLED, 2880 x 1880-pixel touchscreen at 90Hz
Battery: 10:10
Size: 12.5 x 9.1 x .6 inches
Weight: 3.09 pounds

MacBook Pro 14 Inch with M3 Chip, $150 Off for Black Friday

noreply@blogger.com (Dede Suhaya) — Sun, 26 Nov 2023 13:46:00 +0000

The base model, 14-inch MacBook Pro with the new M3 chip just came out in October but is already 150 off for Black Friday. After testing the new chip, we think the base model with 8GB of RAM may quickly get bogged down. If it's within your budget, we recommend the model with 16GB of RAM, which is $150 off at B&H photo. And if you upgrade to a model with the M3 Pro chip for an even speedier experience — you'll get a $200 discount as it's down to $2,199 at B&H Photo. We gave the new M3 MacBook Pros an appreciative review and named them the best option for creatives in our buyer’s guide. (engadget)

Brief Specs

Screen : 14-inch
Chip: M3
RAM: 8 GB, 16 GB
Storage: 512GB SSD
Price: $1,449 at Amazon

7 Laptops for Student: Performance, Portability, and Affordability

noreply@blogger.com (Dede Suhaya) — Mon, 13 Nov 2023 14:15:00 +0000

Asus VivoBook S15

7 Laptops for Student: Performance, Portability, and Affordability

Choosing a laptop for a student depends on various factors such as budget, academic requirements, and personal preferences. Here are seven laptops that are generally well-regarded for students, considering a balance between performance, portability, and affordability.

Dell XPS 13: The Dell XPS 13 is known for its sleek design, impressive display, and good performance. It's a reliable choice for students who need a portable laptop for both work and entertainment.
MacBook Air (M1, 2020): If you're in the Apple ecosystem, the MacBook Air with the M1 chip offers excellent performance and long battery life. It's lightweight and has a high-resolution Retina display.
Asus VivoBook S15: The VivoBook series from Asus offers a good balance of performance and affordability. The VivoBook S15 is a stylish and lightweight laptop with a decent set of features.
Lenovo ThinkPad X1 Carbon: If durability and a great keyboard are important to you, the ThinkPad X1 Carbon is a solid choice. It's known for its build quality, excellent keyboard, and long battery life.
HP Envy x360: The HP Envy x360 is a 2-in-1 laptop with a touchscreen, making it versatile for both productivity and entertainment. It often comes with AMD Ryzen processors, providing good performance.
Acer Swift 3: The Acer Swift 3 is a budget-friendly laptop that doesn't compromise too much on performance. It's a solid choice for students who need a reliable laptop without breaking the bank.
Microsoft Surface Laptop 4: The Surface Laptop 4 combines a sleek design with a high-resolution display and good performance. It's a premium option, and the build quality is generally well-regarded.

Before making a final decision, consider the specific requirements of the student, such as the need for specific software, port availability, and any other special features. Additionally, it's always a good idea to read reviews and compare prices to find the best deal based on your budget and preferences.***

10 Most Popular and Best Gaming Laptops of The World

noreply@blogger.com (Dede Suhaya) — Sat, 11 Nov 2023 14:18:00 +0000

ASUS.com

10 Most Popular and Best Gaming Laptops of The World base of last update in January 2022, provide a list of some popular gaming laptops that were well-regarded at that time. Here's a list of gaming laptops that were considered among the best:

ASUS ROG Zephyrus G14: Known for its powerful AMD Ryzen processor and NVIDIA GeForce RTX graphics in a compact design.
Razer Blade 15: Features a sleek design, high-quality build, and customizable RGB lighting. It often comes with high-refresh-rate displays and powerful GPUs.
Alienware m15 R4: Dell's Alienware series is known for its premium build quality and high-performance components, making it a favorite among gamers.
MSI GS66 Stealth: A slim and powerful gaming laptop with impressive specs, including high-refresh-rate displays and NVIDIA GeForce RTX graphics.
Acer Predator Helios 300: Offers excellent performance for its price, often featuring an Intel Core i7 processor and NVIDIA GeForce RTX graphics.
HP Omen 15: Combines powerful specs with a relatively sleek design, often featuring high-refresh-rate displays and NVIDIA GeForce RTX graphics.
Lenovo Legion 7i: Known for its robust build quality, customizable RGB keyboard, and high-performance components.
Gigabyte Aorus 15G: Features a mechanical keyboard, high-refresh-rate displays, and powerful components for a premium gaming experience.
Dell G5 15 SE: A budget-friendly gaming laptop with AMD Ryzen processor and AMD Radeon graphics, providing good value for its price.
ROG Strix Scar 17: Part of ASUS's Republic of Gamers (ROG) lineup, known for its powerful specs, high-refresh-rate display, and gamer-centric features.***

Logitech MX Ergo Wireless Trackball Mouse

noreply@blogger.com (Dede Suhaya) — Mon, 06 Nov 2023 13:05:00 +0000

The trackball is quick and precise and the hand shake design may ease strain on your shoulders.

There is a mouse graveyard in my office cabinet — devices I’ve tried and discarded because they didn’t help with my shoulder aches. The solution was a trackball mouse and Logitech’s MX Ergo is the best I’ve found. It tilts for a more natural “handshake” grip and has a slow-mo trackball button for more precise movements in Photoshop and other apps.

The scroll wheel is speedy but precise and you can switch between two computers (or one MacBook and one iPad) with the pairing button. You can even program the various buttons to do app-specific things using Logitech’s software. My only gripe is the antiquated micro-USB charging port, but the battery lasts long enough that I only have to use it once every few months. It’s pricey at $100, so you may prefer the $70 Ergo Lift. It also offers a handshake grip, but without the roller ball, and has Bluetooth or USB dongle connectivity options. (engadget)

Price : $75 at Amazon and $100 at Logitech

Mophie Powerstation Pro AC 27,000mAh Battery

noreply@blogger.com (Dede Suhaya) — Sat, 04 Nov 2023 15:35:00 +0000

This massive battery refilled a 16-inch MacBook Pro from 10 percent to 75 percent in under 90 minutes, while the laptop was in use.

When you take your MacBook on the road, it’s nice to have a way to juice it back up if an outlet isn’t available. Mophie’s Powerstation Pro AC is a massive, 27,000mAh power bank with 20W USB-C and USB-A ports, a 60W USB-C power delivery port and a 100W AC plug.

In Engadget tests, it recharged a 16-inch MacBook Pro from ten percent to 75 percent in 89 minutes — and that’s while using WiFi, a VPN, Slack and multiple active tabs in Chrome. The 140W power brick that comes with that laptop is too power-hungry for the 100W AC port, but plugging the USB-C end of the MagSafe cable into the Powerstation worked great. (engadget)

Price: $184 at Amazon and $200 at Mophie.

The HP Spectre Foldable Perfects the Formula of The Foldable PC

noreply@blogger.com (Dede Suhaya) — Wed, 01 Nov 2023 14:13:00 +0000

The HP Spectre Foldable perfects the formula of the foldable PC

Of the number of options out there, they all more or less consist of a foldable screen, a detachable keyboard, and a few different “modes” to use it in. There’s even the Lenovo Yoga Book 9i, which uses two separate OLED panels to accomplish that same goal.

The Spectre Foldable PC is HP’s first attempt at this type of product, and it takes more inspiration from the Asus Zenbook 17 Fold than the Yoga Book. It uses a 17-inch tablet that folds in the middle, just like the Asus. HP calls it a 3-in-1, with tablet, clamshell, and desktop modes, and that’s more than just marketing.

Switching from one mode to another is incredibly easy, and each one is surprisingly usable. I liked the Spectre Foldable PC quite a bit and consider it one of the most innovative laptops, but I’m afraid the hefty investment of $5,000 will scare most people away. (digitaltrends)

Specs

Dimensions:
10.91 inches x 14.81 inches x 0.33 inches (unfolded)
10.1 inches x 7.53 inches x 0.84 inches (folded)

Weight:
3.58 pounds (with keyboard)
2.99 pounds (without keyboard)

Processor:
Intel Core i7-1250U

Graphics:
Intel Iris Xe

RAM:
16GB

Display:
17.0-inch 3:4 2.5K (2,560 x 1,920) OLED

Storage:
1TB SSD

Touch:
Yes

Ports:
2 x USB-C with Thunderbolt 4

Wireless:
Wi-Fi 6E and Bluetooth 5.3

Webcam:
5MP with infrared camera for Windows 11 facial recognition

Operating system:
Windows 11

Battery:
94.3 watt-hours

Price:
$5,000

Amazon's Fire Max 11 Tablet Just Dropped to a Record-Low Price of $150

noreply@blogger.com (Dede Suhaya) — Tue, 31 Oct 2023 13:36:00 +0000

Fire Max 11.*/Amazon

Amazon’s flagship Fire Max 11 tablet just dropped to a record-low price of $150, representing a savings of $80 from the MSRP of $230. This deal is for the standard tablet and doesn’t include a stylus, keyboard or any other accessories. Being as this is an Amazon tablet, you also get those ads on the lockscreen, but they are fairly unobtrusive.

This is the most powerful Fire tablet out there, with an 11-inch LCD screen, a slim aluminum frame and Alexa-powered smart home controls. You get a fingerprint sensor in the power button, WiFi 6 support and split-screen/picture-in-picture features. We were impressed by the inherent value of the tablet at its full price, so we are 35 percent more impressed now.

The Fire Max 11 is also light, weighing around a pound, and is designed around multi-tasking, with an octa-core MediaTek processor that is nearly twice as fast as any other Amazon-branded tablet. In other words, this is a far cry from the kinds of affordable, kid-friendly tablets the company typically releases. (engadget)

Razer Blade 16, Best Blender Laptop for Gaming

noreply@blogger.com (Dede Suhaya) — Sat, 28 Oct 2023 12:49:00 +0000

Razer Blade 16.*/Future/

Razer Blade 16, Best Blender Laptop for Gaming

One of the biggest draws for animators is that the Razer Blade 16 has a mini-LED display, which supports dual mode. In other words it can handle both 4K 120Hz (UHD+) and 1080p 240Hz (FHD) content natively.

The Razer Blade 16 can be customized with a variety of graphics cards - which is incredibly useful when you're running Blender. The specs we're recommending for animators is the one with a NVIDIA GeForce RTX 4090 card with 16GB of GDDR6 VRAM. High processing power is also assured by maxing out the DDR5 RAM to 32GB.

If you do choose this model of Razer Blade 16, you also benefit from 2TB (2 x 1TB) NVMe SSDs, which offer much faster read/write speeds than the previous SATA models. This should be more than sufficient for months of animations - the fact that the drives are separate also means you can use one for loading the operating system and another for archiving older files, making your laptop tick over faster.

The Razer Blade 16 weighs in at 5.40 lbs (2.45 kg), making it rather hefty compared to slimline ultrabooks and MacBook Pros. Still the aluminum chassis makes it sturdy enough to handle the kinds of bumps and scrapes you can encounter when you're not working in the sanctity of the studio.

The standard configuration for this Razer Blade model comes with 32 GB of RAM. This can be upgraded up to 64 GB but no further, which may not be sufficient for very resource-intensive animation.

The only major downside to choosing a high-end gaming laptop like the Razer Blade 16 is the price, as maxing out the specs can actually be more expensive than an Apple device. If you're happy with the series but are on a tighter budget, consider buying a lower spec model like the Razer 15. (techradar)

SPECIFICATIONS
CPU: 13th Gen Intel Core™ i9-13950HX 5.5 GHz
Graphics: NVIDIA GeForce RTX 4090 (16GB GDDR6 VRAM)
RAM: 32 GB DDR5-5600MHz
Screen: 16" UHD+, 16:10 (3840 x 2400 WQUXGA)
Storage: 1 TB + 1 TB (2 TB) PCIe 4.0 NVMe M.2 SSD
Dimensions: 22 x 24.44 x 35.5 cm

Dell XPS 17, Best Overall 17-Inch Laptop for Everyday Use

noreply@blogger.com (Dede Suhaya) — Thu, 26 Oct 2023 12:56:00 +0000

Dell XPS 17/Dell

Dell XPS 17, Best Overall 17-Inch Laptop for Everyday Use

The XPS model line is Dell's flagship, showcasing the best the company has to offer in design, features, and innovation. The XPS 17's build may look just like last year's model, but the 2023 version offers Intel 13th Gen and Nvidia GeForce RTX 40 Series silicon for performance and graphics that propel it to the top of the category. Paired with a 4K touch screen and Dell's nearly bezel-free edge-to-edge panels, and the XPS 17 continues to reign as the Best Overall 17-Inch Laptop for Everyday Use.

For a powerful desktop replacement that rivals the best Windows and Mac laptops on the market, the XPS 17 (9730) offers an unbeatable combination of processing and graphics power; a gorgeous, expansive screen; and capability that will satisfy everyone—from casual users to demanding professionals. The only complaints? The webcam is just 720p, and you'll want to bring appropriate adapters to really take advantage of the laptop's Thunderbolt 4 ports. (PC Mag)

SPECS
Processor : Intel Core i7-13700H
RAM : 32 GB
Boot Drive Type : SSD
Boot Drive Capacity : 1 TB
Screen Size : 17 inches
Native Display Resolution : 3840 by 2400
Touch Screen : Yes
Panel Technology : IPS
Screen Refresh Rate : 60 Hz
Graphics Processor : Nvidia GeForce RTX 4070 Laptop GPU
Graphics Memory : 8 GB
Wireless Networking : 802.11ax (Wi-Fi 6), Bluetooth
Dimensions (HWD) : 0.77 by 14.7 by 9.8 inches
Weight : 5.4 lbs
Operating System : Windows 11
Tested Battery Life : 12 hours 16 minutes
Price : $3,149.00 (Dell.com)

The Best MacBooks for 2023: 15-inch MacBook Air with M2 Chip

noreply@blogger.com (Dede Suhaya) — Sun, 22 Oct 2023 14:33:00 +0000

MacBook Air./engadget/

Apple’s most recent laptop arrived in June of this year with the 15-inch MacBook Air. It carries the same M2 chip as the latest-model 13-inch MacBook Air and roughly the same specs other than a larger screen and more speakers. Of course, a new M3 chip could* arrive as early as next month, but as with the advent of the M2 chip, Apple will likely use the next-gen chip in one or two new computers, while still supporting the “older” M2 machines.

Those looking for a new MacBook have a lot to think about. Chips, specs and everything else so you can figure out which model will work best for your needs. As of today, these are the best MacBooks for everyone from students to power users.

Compared to PCs, Apple computers tend to have more streamlined specifications. The company has long been known for this simplicity, and the M-series “system-on-a-chip” condenses things even further. The M1 and M2 chips combine, among other technologies, the CPU, graphics card and unified memory (RAM).

Apple’s Neural Engine is included too, which is a specialized group of processor cores that handles machine learning tasks such as image analysis and voice recognition. While a unified chip means you have fewer decisions to make when picking a MacBook, there are still a few factors to consider, including the number of CPU cores, amount of RAM, storage capacity, screen size, and, obviously, price.

The least expensive MacBook is the 13-inch M1 Air with 8GB of RAM and 256GB of SSD, which sells for $999 and has been regularly going for $750 at multiple retailers. Alternatively, you can spend up to $5,899 for the 16-inch MacBook Pro M2 Max with 96GB of RAM and 8TB of storage. (engadget)

LG Gram Fold, The Flexible-Screen Laptop Game

noreply@blogger.com (Dede Suhaya) — Sat, 21 Oct 2023 11:48:00 +0000

LG Gram Fold.*/LG?

LG has announced its first foldable laptop, making it the newest player in the industry to launch its entry for the growing category. Similar to the ASUS Zenbook 17 Fold and the Lenovo ThinkPad X1 Fold, the LG Gram Fold is a touchscreen device that can be used as a massive tablet or a computer when fully unfolded. Users will get a 17-inch OLED screen with a QXGA+ (2560 x 1920 pixel) resolution when it's used purely as a display, and they can link it to its accompanying Bluetooth keyboard if they want to use it as workstation. The device also supports stylus pens, so it can act like a traditional tablet for projects involving art, architecture and calligraphy.

When it is folded, the top part becomes 12-inch screen, while the bottom could turn into a keyboard for typing. LG says it tested the model and verified that it could withstand 30,000 folds without its display getting damaged. Samsung tests its foldable Galaxy phones' hinges around 200,000 times, but most people likely access their phones a lot more than their computers or tablets within a day.

A 13th generation Intel Core i5 processor powers the LG Gram Fold, which is also equipped with a RAM that the company says is 15 times faster than an LPDDR5 5,200 memory. On the software side, the foldable laptop runs Windows 11 and comes with Sync On Mobile that makes it easy to transfer phone data to the device. The LG Gram Fold is scheduled for release in October, but only in Korea at the moment. It's priced at 4.99 million won ($3,700). (engadget)

Asus ROG Zephyrus G14, Best High-End AMD-Powered Laptop

noreply@blogger.com (Dede Suhaya) — Thu, 19 Oct 2023 14:03:00 +0000

ASUS ROG Zephyrus G14.*/Mashable/

If you want to ride that AMD processor train even further, the ASUS ROG Zephyrus G14 is one of the best AMD-powered gaming laptops you're going to find.

This ASUS rig strikes a healthy balance between style and substance. From the outside, the ROG Zephyrus G14 sports a minimalist aesthetic in a compact 14-inch body.

While small computers normally signal less power to shoppers, this laptop actually boasts incredible performance all around thanks to its AMD 3rd Generation Ryzen 9 processor and NVIDIA GeForce RTX 2060 Max-Q graphics card.

Also included is a hefty 1TB SSD and a beautifully vibrant display that'll keep your games looking top-notch (even on such a small screen).

The only downside to the ROG Zephyrus G14 is that its fans tend to run pretty loud, but that's to be expected in an ultra-compact laptop that packs such a huge punch.

If you're looking for something small yet mighty, you've found it. (mashable)

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Alienware m16 R2, Gaming Laptop with a Sleeker Design & Affordable Price

Specs:Processor: Intel Core Ultra 7 155HRAM: 16 GBBoot Drive: SSD 1 TBScreen Size: 16 inchesDisplay Resolution: 2560 x 1600Graphics Processor: Nvidia GeForce RTX 4070 Laptop GPUGraphics Memory: 8 GBTested Battery Life: 10:14Price: $1,299.99 at Dell

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Lenovo’s Project Crystal is the World’s First Laptop with a Transparent Display

It’s not often you encounter a device that looks like it came straight out of a movie set. But Lenovo’s Project Crystal, supposedly the world’s first laptop with a transparent microLED display, is an example of sci-fi come to life.

Panasonic Toughbook 40 Best Rugged Laptop

PC Mag

Dustproof and immune to splashes and strong jets of water

Heavy and expensive

Specs:

HP Pavilion Plus 14, The Best Laptops for 2024

And that screen also comes rocking stunning OLED technology for top-notch color and contrast.

Providing all of this for a decent price that's often reduced on sale earns the HP Pavilion Plus 14 its spot back atop our rankings of the best overall laptops for general use.

If you can nab one on a special or a deal, you'll score one of the top productivity partners you can bring to school or work, with punchy performance and a gorgeous screen for all sorts of work and play.

Let the Pavilion Plus 14 be your first stop if you need something that's both powerful and feature-rich without costing a mint. (PC Mag)***

Specs:

Processor: AMD Ryzen 7 7840U

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Traditional laptops with touchscreens are great, but if you really want the full benefits of touch support, buy one of the best 2-in-1 laptops, Lenovo Yoga 9i 2-in-1.

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The HP Spectre Foldable Perfects the Formula of The Foldable PC

The HP Spectre Foldable perfects the formula of the foldable PC

Of the number of options out there, they all more or less consist of a foldable screen, a detachable keyboard, and a few different “modes” to use it in. There’s even the Lenovo Yoga Book 9i, which uses two separate OLED panels to accomplish that same goal.

Specs

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Dell XPS 17/Dell

Dell XPS 17, Best Overall 17-Inch Laptop for Everyday Use

The Best MacBooks for 2023: 15-inch MacBook Air with M2 Chip

LG Gram Fold, The Flexible-Screen Laptop Game

Asus ROG Zephyrus G14, Best High-End AMD-Powered Laptop

Specs:
Processor: Intel Core Ultra 7 155H
RAM: 16 GB
Boot Drive: SSD 1 TB
Screen Size: 16 inches
Display Resolution: 2560 x 1600
Graphics Processor: Nvidia GeForce RTX 4070 Laptop GPU
Graphics Memory: 8 GB
Tested Battery Life: 10:14
Price: $1,299.99 at Dell