Tech News
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LIAN LI Launches SP Platinum SFX Series PSUs with 80 PLUS® Platinum Certification
November 14th, 2025, Taipei, Taiwan – LIAN LI, a leading manufacturer of computer chassis and accessories, announces the SP Platinum Series, fully modular 850W and 1000W SFX power supplies engineered for high-end small-form-factor builds. Delivering 80 PLUS® Platinum certified efficiency, the SP Platinum meets Intel ATX 3.1 and PCIe 5.1 requirements and integrates LIAN LI’s in-house designed 12V-2x6 for reliable modern GPU power delivery. It features a 92mm FDB fan with a smart curve that is powered off at ≤40% load for silent operation. For tighter cable management and easier routing, it includes super-flexible braided modular DC cables, along with an extension power cord featuring an inline on/off switch, which enables external power control. Built with 100% Japanese 105°C capacitors and a full protection suite, each unit ships with an SFX-to-ATX bracket for broader chassis compatibility.
Platinum Power, Next-Gen Standards
The SP Platinum Series is 80 PLUS® Platinum certified, delivering up to 92% efficiency at 50% load, while maintaining precise regulation and low ripple under changing workloads. The PSU series fully complies with Intel ATX 3.1 and PCIe 5.1 standards and comes with an in-house engineered 12V-2x6 GPU cable, built with alloy copper terminals for lower contact resistance, higher thermal tolerance, and a dual-color connector to facilitate a clear insertion check. For longevity and clean output, the SP Platinum utilizes 100% Japanese 105°C capacitors, and it’s protected by a comprehensive suite of protections, including OCP, OVP, OTP, OPP, SCP, UVP, NLP, and SIP, which cover overcurrent, over/under-voltage, over-temperature, short-circuit, and more.Service-Friendly Power Control and Quiet Operation
For builds where the PSU is mounted internally and rear AC access is limited, each unit includes an IEC 320 C14-to-C13 extension cord with an inline on/off switch, allowing users to turn off their PSU without needing to open their case. The SP Platinum is also equipped with a 92mm FDB fan, which features a smart thermal curve that enables the fan to completely stop at loads of 40% or less, effectively eliminating idle noise.Clean Routing for SFF, Drop-In ATX Compatibility
The SP Platinum comes with super-flexible, braided-texture modular DC cables, making cable management in tight, small-form-factor cases easier. These cables bend easily around components, reducing clutter for better airflow. An SFX-to-ATX bracket is included, allowing the SP Platinum to mount seamlessly in standard ATX enclosures.Availability
The LIAN LI SP Platinum Series PSUs are available in black or white starting November 14th, 2025. -
Ryzen 5 7500X3D Review @ Guru 3D
AMD’s Ryzen 5 7500X3D brings the company’s 3D V-Cache technology to a far more accessible price point, offering 96 MB of L3 cache on a 6-core Zen 4 processor. Despite its modest core count and a relatively conservative boost frequency, the chip delivers excellent gaming performance thanks to the stacked cache architecture, achieving near-flagship results at 1080p and 1440p while maintaining a highly efficient 65 W TDP. For budget-minded gamers or AM5 adopters looking for maximum performance per dollar, the 7500X3D positions itself as a standout value in the current CPU landscape.
The Ryzen 5 7500X3D has been quietly building buzz ever since listings first appeared online a few weeks ago. This new CPU will feature 6 cores and 12 threads based on AMD’s Zen 4 architecture for the AM5 platform. It inherits the same 3D V-Cache technology that made its predecessors so popular, reportedly stacking up to 102 MB of total cache — with 96 MB of L3 and 6 MB of L2. Boost clocks are to reach just around 4.5 GHz, while keeping power consumption impressively low with a 65 W TDP. This combination makes it potentially the most efficient X3D chip AMD has ever released. With a price tag of around €279, the Ryzen 5 7500X3D could become the first truly budget-friendly 3D V-Cache processor — bringing near-flagship gaming performance to mainstream builders. It’s shaping up to be an ideal drop-in upgrade for anyone already running an AM5 motherboard and looking for top-tier gaming performance without breaking the bank.
However, its strengths in gaming do not extend equally to heavy productivity tasks, where higher-core-count CPUs predictably pull ahead. The review notes that platform cost DDR5 memory plus AM5 motherboards, still influences overall value, but the processor itself provides exceptional efficiency, strong frame-time consistency, and impressive gaming throughput for its class. For users focused primarily on gaming with occasional multitasking, the Ryzen 5 7500X3D earns its title as a “budget gaming champion,” delivering top-tier performance at a mainstream price point. -
LIAN LI Introduces the Platinum Certified SX PSU Series
November 13th, 2025, Taipei, Taiwan – LIAN LI, a leading manufacturer of computer chassis and accessories, announces the launch of the SX Series PSU, available in 850W, 1000W, and 1200W with 80 PLUS® Platinum certification for up to 92% efficiency. Built to deliver stable, future-ready power, the SX Series is fully compliant with Intel’s ATX 3.1 specification and features a native PCIe Gen 5.1 12V-2x6 connector capable of supplying up to 600W directly to next-generation GPUs. Cooling is managed by a 120mm FDB fan with a Zero RPM fanless mode that can be toggled on/off via a rear switch, while premium 100% Japanese 105°C capacitors and a high-amperage single +12V rail ensure long-term stability under demanding loads. With a full suite of industrial-grade protections, flexible braided-texture modular cables, and a choice of black or white models with an embossed mesh design, the SX Series is engineered for both performance and clean cable management. Backed by a 10-year warranty, the SX Series PSU offers enthusiasts reliable power with style and peace of mind.
Platinum Efficiency and ATX 3.1 Readiness
The SX Series PSU features 80 PLUS® Platinum certification and full compliance with Intel ATX 3.1, ensuring high efficiency and compatibility with current and future systems. It reaches up to 92% efficiency under typical loads, reducing wasted energy and heat, which helps keep the PC cooler and more reliable. Its native PCIe Gen 5.1 12V-2x6 connector provides up to 600W directly to next-generation graphics cards without the need for adapters, while the included 12V-2x6 to dual 6+2 PCIe cable extends support to multiple devices beyond just GPUs on the 1000W and 1200W models.Cooling and Build Quality
Engineered for quiet yet effective operation, the SX Series features a 120mm fluid dynamic bearing fan with a Zero RPM fanless mode that can be toggled on or off using the switch on the PSU’s rear panel, allowing for always-on mode or activation only when a specific temperature threshold is reached. The PSU is constructed with 100% Japanese 105°C capacitors for long-term reliability and stable voltage regulation, combined with a high-amperage single +12V rail that provides consistent power to demanding components like GPUs and CPUs.Design, Protection, and Reliability
The SX Series PSU focuses on both aesthetics and safety, featuring flexible braided-texture modular cables for easy routing and a tidy build, along with an embossed mesh housing designed to enhance airflow and visual appeal. To protect the system, the PSU includes a full set of protections, including OPP, OVP, SCP, OCP, OTP, UVP, SIP, and NLP, ensuring reliability in all operating conditions. The SX Series is offered in 850W, 1000W, and 1200W options and comes with a 10-year warranty.Availability
The LIAN LI SX Series PSUs are available in black only starting November 13th, 2025. -
Broadcom Advances Open Ecosystem for VMware Cloud Foundation
New ODM Self-Certification Program, Open Networking Initiative, and Open Source Software Contributions Fuel Flexible, Adaptable Private Clouds
New and Expanded Collaborations Announced with Cisco, Intel, OVHcloud, SNUC and Supermicro
PALO ALTO, Calif., Nov. 12, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Today, Broadcom Inc. (NASDAQ: AVGO) announced it is advancing an open, extensible ecosystem for VMware Cloud Foundation (VCF), enabling customers to build, connect, protect, and extend their modern private clouds. With these announcements, Broadcom is delivering a private cloud platform that is open and adaptable across all infrastructure layers. Customers will have increased ability to leverage their preferred data center and edge hardware infrastructure, open networking constructs, and open source technologies for on-prem and hosted private cloud environments, while VCF partners will have more opportunity for innovation.
“The momentum behind VMware Cloud Foundation 9.0 is undeniable. It's a platform that's redefining how organizations approach their private cloud journey, offering a consistent operating model that spans data centers to the edge,” said Paul Turner, Chief Product Officer, VMware Cloud Foundation Division, Broadcom. “By fostering an open VCF ecosystem, we're empowering businesses to build modern private clouds that align with their strategic needs, ensuring they can leverage the technologies required for their unique environments.”
Open Hardware Ecosystem Enables Flexibility and Choice for Modern Private Cloud Deployments
Broadcom is expanding its open hardware certification program to increase Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM) and Original Design Manufacturer (ODM) participation through new VCF AI ReadyNodes, ODM self-service certification, and support for new edge systems.- New VCF AI ReadyNodes: This open and streamlined certification process will help ensure customers can adopt next-generation CPU, GPU, and accelerator technologies as they become available. VCF AI ReadyNodes will be certified with pre-qualified servers for AI model training and inference. Supermicro will be among the first OEM partners to certify an AI ReadyNode system.
- ODM Partner Self-Certification: Broadcom is expanding the VCF ReadyNode certification program to enable ODM partners to self-certify ReadyNodes through the Broadcom Technology Alliance Program (TAP). All certified systems will be validated for full interoperability with VMware Cloud Foundation with consistent VCF lifecycle management. This program expansion will provide customers more sourcing flexibility and help further improve VCF total cost of ownership.
- Edge Ecosystem Expansion: Broadcom will support new edge-optimized nodes for rugged, compact servers in industrial, defense, retail and other remote site applications. This will support the growing deployment of modern private cloud infrastructure closer to data generation points on factory floors and retail outlets.
“Supermicro is excited to be among the first hardware OEMs to certify our industry-leading GPU systems as VCF AI ReadyNodes,” said Ismail Sayeeduddin, Vice President, Business Development, Supermicro. “This milestone gives customers a clear migration path from previously certified Supermicro systems in the VMware certification program to the latest fully validated and optimized GPU solutions that help eliminate the cost and complexity of AI adoption.”
“Broadcom's open certification program for VCF Ready hardware supports our vertical integration strategy, enabling us to self-certify our server systems for VMware Cloud Foundation,” said Yaniv Fdida, chief product and technology officer for OVHcloud. “This will reinforce our commitment to deliver our customers with competitive, high-performance private cloud services that remain cost-effective. Broadcom’s program will help accelerate our time-to-market for innovative and secure cloud solutions powered by VMware technology, further solidifying our position as a leading global cloud player.”
“Broadcom's expansion of the ReadyNode certification program accelerates the deployment of VMware Cloud Foundation 9.0 on Intel Xeon 6 platforms,” said Caitlin Anderson, Corporate Vice President, Americas Sales at Intel Corporation. “This combination delivers greater hardware consolidation and cost optimization, which, when delivered through certified configurations, directly enables AI adoption via faster infrastructure modernization.”
“The pairing of purpose-built SNUC extremeEDGE servers with VMware Cloud Foundation will enable customers across industries to deliver the edge of tomorrow,” said Steve Savage, chief operating officer at SNUC. “Through self-certification of extremeEDGE as part of Broadcom’s expanded ReadyNode program, we will deliver our edge innovations faster, helping our mutual customers across industrial manufacturing, healthcare, retail, and the federal government maximize the value of AI.”
Open Networking to Simplify Private Cloud Deployments with EVPN Fabrics
Broadcom is announcing a new strategy to unify network fabrics and simplify networking operations in the modern private cloud through standards-based EVPN and BGP networking. This strategy will enhance interoperability between application environments and the network, promoting cloud-like simplicity. The open standards approach will accelerate deployments, enable multi-vendor flexibility, and preserve existing network investments. Customers will benefit from VPC level protection, consistent network operations, routing, and visibility across VCF Networking (NSX) domains and third-party networking solutions, enabling unified operations with end-to-end fabric-driven automation.This approach aligns VCF and Cisco’s Nexus One fabric solution, promoting more consistent and reliable outcomes for mutual Cisco and VCF customers across data center fabric architectural design choices. Cisco’s unified Nexus One fabric approach implements a standard-based VXLAN EVPN control plane and data plane. With VCF’s move towards EVPN-based interoperability and a unified and open architecture, customers can drive faster innovation, shorten time to value, and lower total cost of ownership as VCF extends to the Cisco Nexus One fabric solution.
“Cisco's foundational work in VxLAN EVPN, backed by the industry's most comprehensive IETF standards authorship, reflects our long-standing commitment to open networking,” said Murali Gandluru, Vice President, Data Center Networking, Cisco. “This collaboration with Broadcom demonstrates our shared commitment to open standards—giving our customers architectural flexibility and choice as they connect, protect and scale both AI and traditional, business-critical workloads.”
Additionally, VCF Networking (NSX) supports Software for Open Networking in the Cloud (SONiC), an open-source network operating system based on Linux, in customer deployments today. SONiC provides customers with cost reduction by running on multi-vendor, commodity switch hardware, lowering both capital and operational expenses. The modular, containerized architecture accelerates innovation and agility, allowing operators to perform seamless, zero-downtime feature upgrades and rapid component rollbacks. Furthermore, its Linux Foundation and native API support enhances automation and control, to simplify operations and integrate networking management directly into modern, cloud-scale DevOps workflows.
Open Source Community Contributions Enable Industry Innovation
Broadcom continues to be an active participant in the Kubernetes community as a top five long-term contributor to CNCF, with contributions to projects such as Antrea, Cluster API, ContainerD, Contour, etcd, Harbor and others. Recently, the CNCF launched the Certified Kubernetes AI Conformance Program, a new initiative to standardize AI workloads on Kubernetes and ensure consistent, interoperable infrastructure for organizations moving AI into production. Broadcom is announcing that VMware vSphere Kubernetes Service (VKS) is now a Certified Kubernetes AI Conformant Platform. This milestone reinforces Broadcom’s commitment to open standards and helps customers innovate freely, knowing their AI platforms are built on a consistent, interoperable foundation.“VMware by Broadcom has been a long-time contributor to CNCF and continues to play a key role in supporting core projects like Kubernetes,” said Chris Aniszczyk, CTO of Cloud & Infrastructure at the Linux Foundation. “Their ongoing investment helps keep Kubernetes vendor-neutral and production-ready at scale, especially for newer AI workloads, and is critical for the health of the broader cloud native ecosystem.”
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Elgato Launches Retail-Exclusive, Discord-Edition Stream Deck Mini
It’s all-blurple and includes a free month of Discord Nitro, available in-store or online
MUNICH, Germany, November 10, 2025 – Elgato, a CORSAIR® brand, today unveiled Stream Deck Mini: Discord Edition, available exclusively at select retailers worldwide. Featuring Discord’s iconic look, the device gives users instant, tactile control of their microphones, soundboards, and more in the app. Its six keys are fully customizable, expanding capabilities beyond Discord to music and games, with access to hundreds of plugins on Elgato Marketplace. Each special edition comes preloaded with essential Discord actions and includes a free month of Nitro, unlocking in-app perks. For Discord's millions of daily users, Stream Deck offers powerful new ways to talk, play, and hang out with friends, while making setups feel more alive.
The device marks Elgato's first-ever retail exclusive, a milestone that reflects Stream Deck's evolution from a tool for streamers to a fixture in online communities.
"This launch celebrates what both our brands do best: empowering people to connect and create seamlessly," says Taylor Ward, Director of Ecosystem at Elgato. "Gamers especially will love the quick access to voice chat and hotkeys, but really anyone who spends time on Discord will find Stream Deck transforms their experience. And by launching exclusively at retail, we’re meeting this audience where they already shop, alongside their favorite tech.”
Stream Deck Mini: Discord Edition launches today across the Americas, Europe, and Asia. Shoppers can find it in-store or online at select retailers including Best Buy, Curry’s, and JB Hi-Fi while supplies last.
Discord Inside and Out
To create this special edition, Elgato took its iconic Stream Deck technology and sprinkled in a little Discord magic. From the familiar Clyde symbol to the digital icons on its keys, every detail feels crafted for Discord regulars. The result is a Stream Deck Mini that brings the fun, playful look of Discord right to the desktop.
Beyond appearance, the device features built-in Discord integration, giving users one-touch control of the app even when it’s running in the background. With keys for essentials like muting a microphone, turning on a camera, or hopping into voice chat, Discord actions are always instantly accessible. Screens, games, and sound effects can be shared right in the moment, without ever needing to alt-tab. Meanwhile, dynamic icons show who’s talking and display notifications or server updates in real time. However they choose to use it, Stream Deck puts the power of Discord right at users' fingertips.
On first startup, the device installs a preconfigured Discord loadout with actions, icons, and plugins to get users going. It's ready to use in minutes, and fully customizable in the free Stream Deck app.
Beyond DiscordWhile designed with Discord in mind, Stream Deck Mini goes far beyond a single app. There are hundreds of plugins and profiles to explore on Marketplace, expanding control to virtually any workflow.
For gamers, Stream Deck brings spells and abilities within easy reach, so the action never stops. Streamers can stay focused on their content with scenes and chat commands right at their fingertips. Creatives streamline projects with one-touch tool selection in apps like Photoshop and DaVinci Resolve. From music to Zoom meetings, multitasking feels fast and intuitive.
To make the most of their keys, users can organize actions into folders and pages, then navigate with a press. Profiles offer special layouts for apps and workflows, like having multiple Stream Decks in one. In this way, six keys become endless actions.
Nitro perks
As a bonus, every special edition comes with a free month of Discord Nitro, unlocking additional in-app perks. With Nitro, users can share bigger files, expand their emoji library, stream in higher resolutions, and more. It’s the best of Discord for one full month, adding even more value to an already game-changing device.
Activating Nitro takes just minutes. Upon setup, users will see a Nitro key displayed on their Stream Deck Mini. This opens a webform asking for an email and serial number, found on their device’s base. Once verified, they’ll receive a code via email to redeem in the Discord app.
The offer is available for new subscribers, plus those who haven’t had Nitro in the past year. Terms and conditions apply.
AvailabilityElgato makes finding a Stream Deck Mini: Discord Edition easy with their interactive store locator. Shoppers can search by address and country or use their current location to show nearby stores. The map also displays online listings at participating retailers.
Available in over 25 countries across the Americas, EMEA, and APAC regions, Discord fans can snag their special edition in person or online while supplies last.
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Best Fitness Tracker Watches Under $200 on Amazon US
If a full smartwatch feels like overkill but a basic step counter does not move the needle, a modern fitness tracker watch is the sweet spot. Under $200, you can now get continuous heart rate, sleep staging, stress trends, automatic workout detection, and either built-in or connected GPS. Battery life typically lasts a week or more, so you spend your time wearing the device instead of charging it.
Just as important, the sensors and software in this price class have matured. Optical heart-rate modules handle wrist movement better for steadier zone tracking. Sleep tools show light, deep, and REM stages with clear guidance you can act on. GPS logs pace and route for runs and walks, and companion apps surface weekly trends that help you decide whether to push a workout or prioritize recovery. The four picks below are in stock on Amazon US and come from trusted brands, each with a slightly different angle so you can match features to how you actually train and live.
Our Top 4 picks
1) Fitbit Charge 6
Brief introduction: Fitbit’s do-it-all tracker adds on-band Google Wallet and Maps to Fitbit’s proven health and sleep tools, plus built-in GPS for outdoor workouts.
Key specs:- Built-in GPS, 24/7 heart rate, SpO2 trends, stress and sleep metrics
- Google Wallet and Google Maps on the band
- Up to about 7 days of battery, water-resistant design
- Includes a trial of Fitbit Premium on eligible purchases
Why this pick: If you want a single band that covers everyday health tracking and outdoor runs without your phone, Charge 6 is the safest all-rounder under $200 with one of the clearest sleep and readiness dashboards.
2) Garmin vívosmart 5
Brief introduction: A slim, comfortable band built around Garmin’s training-centric metrics, including Body Battery energy scoring and dependable sleep and stress tracking.
Key specs:- All-day heart rate, stress, advanced sleep; Pulse Ox spot checks
- Body Battery and fitness age in Garmin Connect
- Up to 7 days of battery; swim-safe
- Touchscreen plus a physical button for easy control
Why this pick: Choose vívosmart 5 if you want reliable training data with minimal distractions and a seamless path into Garmin Connect for coaching plans, cycling data, and long-term trends.
3) Amazfit Bip 5
Brief introduction: A bright, watch-like display with built-in GPS and multi-day battery life, plus Alexa on board for quick timers and smart-home control.
Key specs:- Built-in GPS, heart rate, SpO2, stress and sleep tracking
- Up to roughly 10 days of battery depending on features used
- Alexa built in; large, readable screen
Why this pick: If you want big-screen visibility without smartwatch prices, Bip 5 is a value standout for casual runners and everyday fitness with on-wrist GPS and straightforward app charts.
4) Samsung Galaxy Fit 3
Click to buy on Amazon
Brief introduction: Samsung’s lightweight tracker with a 1.6-inch AMOLED display, long battery life, and more than 100 workout modes, especially friendly for Android users.
Key specs:- Large AMOLED display; heart rate, advanced sleep, workout tracking
- Claimed up to about 14 days of battery
- 100 plus exercise modes; water resistance for swim sessions
Why this pick: Prefer a bright, watch-like screen in a slim band that integrates smoothly with Samsung Health and Android notifications? Fit 3 makes everyday tracking simple and comfortable.
Final thoughts
Choose by routine first. If your goal is better sleep habits, daily steps, and a couple of outdoor runs each week, Fitbit Charge 6 combines clear sleep insights, simple GPS logging, and useful on-band tools like Wallet and Maps. If you already use Garmin or want training metrics that plug into structured plans, Garmin vívosmart 5 pairs clean daily tracking with the depth of Garmin Connect. Want a bigger display and built-in GPS at a true value price, without going full smartwatch, Amazfit Bip 5 is a great fit. Prefer a bright AMOLED screen, effortless wear, and tight Android integration, Samsung Galaxy Fit 3 keeps everyday tracking simple.
A few quick tips to help readers get good results on day one. Wear the band snug, one finger above the wrist bone for workouts, then loosen slightly for sleep. Turn on auto-detection so casual walks and rides are captured. Calibrate GPS outdoors on your first run and sync after workouts so pacing and routes stay accurate. Trim notifications to what nudges movement, not distraction. Review weekly trends on Sunday to set a small target for the week ahead. With these four under-$200 picks, it is easy to match the tool to your habits and turn small daily choices into lasting progress.
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Silicon Power Launches XPOWER XS90 Gen 5x4 SSD: Blazing Speeds for AI, Gaming, and Content Creation
Taipei, Taiwan – November 11th, 2025 – Silicon Power (SP) has just unleashed its fastest SSD to date, the XPOWER XS90 PCIe Gen 5x4 SSD. Designed for the next generation of computing, the XS90 delivers blistering performance and unmatched efficiency to meet the growing demands of AI-driven workloads, high-end gaming, and professional content creation. Combining raw speed with cutting-edge technology, the XS90 redefines what users can expect from a Gen 5 SSD.
Next-Gen Speed Powered by PCIe 5.0At the heart of the XS90 lies a PCIe Gen 5x4 interface and an advanced TSMC 6nm controller, optimized for both power and performance. Achieving read speeds of up to 14,300MB/s and write speeds of up to 13,400MB/s, it stands as Silicon Power’s fastest SSD to date. Paired with LPDDR4 DRAM caching, the XS90 ensures lightning-fast responsiveness for intensive computing tasks, from AI model training to high-resolution video editing. Engineered for efficiency, the XS90 delivers next-level performance while maintaining low power consumption—ideal for the latest desktops and laptops that have adopted PCIe 5.0 compatibility.
Built for Power Users, Creators, and Innovators
Whether you’re crafting digital media, rendering complex 3D models, or developing advanced applications, the XS90 is built to keep up. Available in 1TB, 2TB, and 4TB capacities, it provides ample space for large files, expansive game libraries, and data-intensive applications. Its compact M.2 2280 form factor and no-heatsink design ensure broad compatibility with most motherboards and laptops, offering users a seamless upgrade experience without compromise. For power users, creators, and AI innovators, the XS90 is the ultimate balance of speed, storage, and adaptability.
The XS90 exemplifies Silicon Power’s continued commitment to innovation, reliability, and performance. With NVMe 2.0 support and a 5-year limited warranty, it delivers the long-term dependability professionals and enthusiasts rely on. As computing demands evolve, especially with the rise of AI applications, the XS90 stands ready to power creativity and productivity.
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Phison E28 PCIe 5.0 SSD Engineering Sample @ TechPowerUp
TechPowerUp reviewed the Phison E28 engineering sample SSD and found it to be a highly promising next-generation PCIe 5.0 drive, built around the new Phison E28 controller. Early testing revealed strong sequential and random performance, reaching nearly the theoretical limits of the interface and showcasing significant architectural improvements compared to prior Gen5 models. The ES unit managed impressive results in IOPS and throughput, indicating that Phison’s latest design offers considerable headroom and maturity, potentially enabling DRAM-equipped models with broad compatibility.
Phison’s new E28 controller is set to redefine the world of PCIe 5 consumer storage. With record-breaking energy efficiency, it can operate without a large heatsink and requires only half the power of its predecessor. Real-world performance is outstanding, too—it’s the fastest SSD we’ve ever tested.
However, the review cautioned that since this is an engineering sample, certain real-world characteristics remain unprove, such as sustained thermals, long-term stability, firmware maturity, and pricing. While power consumption and thermals were competitive, some areas like efficiency and cooling still require optimal environmental conditions and airflow. TechPowerUp concluded that the E28 ES is a clear step forward in PCIe 5.0 SSDs, but advised -
Silicon Motion MonTitan 7.68 TB Review @ TechPowerUp
TechPowerUp reviewed the Silicon Motion MonTitan 7.68 TB PCIe 5.0 SSD, and while the drive delivers very strong performance in several key areas, its market position is complicated by unknown pricing and a few practical limitations. In testing, the MonTitan reached nearly 3.2 million IOPS and offered excellent synthetic results, with solid real-world performance, especially in LLM-focused workloads. The design supports TLC NAND at high capacities, encryption, multiple form factors, and a five-year warranty. It also demonstrates flexibility by working with NAND from multiple manufacturers, and other versions using different flash types have shown even higher performance. However, it is not the most power-efficient drive, and the SSD requires airflow to avoid thermal throttling.
Silicon Motion’s MonTitan SSD platform, built around the SM8366 controller, stands out in multiple areas, particularly with its consistently strong performance in specific workloads. Paired with Micron B58R NAND, this unit delivered solid and reliable results, even if it wasn’t the outright fastest in our comparison.
The major challenge is availability and pricing. Unlike Phison, Silicon Motion does not sell the MonTitan directly, and no partner models could be located at the time of the review, making cost comparisons speculative. Competing 7.68 TB PCIe 5.0 SSDs rated at 1 DWPD already retail around 930 to 960 dollars, meaning the MonTitan would need to be priced near or below 900 dollars to stand out from Phison, Memblaze, Samsung, and Solidigm. TechPowerUp concludes that while PCIe 5.0 drives provide clear performance advantages, PCIe 4.0 options still offer better total cost of ownership for many workloads. With the right pricing and broader availability, the MonTitan could become a very competitive alternative in the data center space. -
LIAN LI Unveils HydroShift II LCD-S Series AIO with Hot-Swappable Square LCD
November 7th, 2025, Taipei, Taiwan – LIAN LI Industrial Co. Ltd., a leading manufacturer of chassis and PC accessories, announces the launch of the HydroShift II LCD-S series all-in-one liquid coolers. Featuring a hot-swappable 3.4-inch square IPS LCD with a pogo-pin magnetic connection, the HydroShift II LCD-S delivers brilliant visuals and effortless installation. With a redesigned high-performance pump for quieter, more efficient operation, and a slim 24mm radiator for broader case compatibility, the HydroShift II LCD-S refines liquid cooling with both performance and aesthetics. Its side-mounted tubing, concealed wiring, and precise tube routing create a seamless, tubeless appearance. The HydroShift II LCD-S supports three control modes, including Offline mode for software freedom, as well as Wireless and USB-Connected control modes via L-Connect 3, which provides builders with flexible screen and lighting customization options. Available in TL Wireless, CL Wireless, and fanless configurations, the HydroShift II LCD-S combines premium cooling with innovative design, backed by a 6-year warranty.
Hot-Swappable Magnetic LCD Screen
The HydroShift II LCD-S features a magnetically designed, hot-swappable 3.4-inch square IPS LCD that provides sharp 480×480 resolution, 500 nits of brightness, and a smooth 60Hz refresh rate. Powered via a pogo-pin connector and mounted securely with magnets, the display attaches without the need for tools or powering off, making installation easier and safer. This design enables builders to attach the screen at the end of the build process, ensuring unrestricted access to the pump block's mounting screws during installation and providing protection against accidental damage to the displayThree Control Modes with Dynamic Customization
The HydroShift II LCD-S screen features an elegant design surrounded by diffused ARGB LEDs and offers three powerful control options. Offline mode provides a seamless, plug-and-play experience, eliminating the need for USB connections or additional software. A preset theme is applied to the LCD, and only the pump speed and AIO water temperature are displayed. In Wireless Mode, the L-Wireless Controller connects over 2.4GHz to L-Connect 3, enabling theme and lighting customization without occupying motherboard USB headers. This mode also synchronizes seamlessly with other wireless products such as UNI FAN CL Wireless, UNI FAN TL Wireless, and STRIMER Wireless, while providing real-time access to system sensors, including CPU and GPU usage and temperature. For complete personalization, USB-Connected Mode unlocks full customizability in L-Connect 3, enabling users to upload images, GIFs, and videos, apply modular templates, and even utilize the LCD as a secondary system display.Refined Pump and Streamlined Design for Maximum Compatibility
The HydroShift II LCD-S redesigned pump is capable of speeds up to 3200 RPM, delivering higher flow, stronger pressure, and quieter operation than its predecessors. Supporting the pump is a slim 24mm-thick 360mm radiator, optimized to fit more cases without sacrificing cooling capacity. The AIO also adopts LIAN LI’s signature side-mounted tubing with hidden wiring and adjustable routing, aided by sliding brackets and tube clamps to achieve a seamless, tubeless look.
Availability
The HydroShift II LCD-S 360TL, 360CL, and 360N AIOs, available in black and white, come with a 6-year warranty and are now available for pre-order as of November 7th, 2025.
