Tech News
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Four of the Best USB Gaming and Streaming Microphones on Amazon
We have all been on the receiving end of it: that one teammate whose voice sounds like they are broadcasting from inside a wind tunnel, or worse, through a mouthful of gravel. In the high-stakes world of online gaming and livestreaming, your voice is your primary tool for diplomacy, strategy, and the occasional well-timed quip. If you are still relying on a flimsy headset mic while trying to build a community on Twitch or YouTube Live, you are essentially whispering through a tin can while the world has moved on to high-fidelity audio.
The modern USB microphone has undergone a quiet revolution. We have moved past the era of bulky, intimidating studio gear that required a degree in sound engineering just to plug in. The 2026 crop of microphones focuses on what I like to call "intelligent simplicity." They are designed to sit on your desk, look sharp, and isolate your voice from the frantic clicking of your mechanical keyboard, all while giving you the "on-air" presence of a professional broadcaster.
Here are the four USB microphones that offer the most compelling C/P (Cost-to-Performance) ratio this year, curated for both competitive gamers and aspiring live creators.
Our Best Picks
1) HyperX QuadCast 2 SThe Flagship Showstopper
Why pick this: If the original QuadCast was a staple, the "2 S" is the full-blown evolution for the visual era of streaming. It takes the fan-favorite tap-to-mute sensor and cranks the technical specs to a point that borders on overkill for a USB mic. With 32-bit/192kHz recording, you are getting studio-grade depth that captures every nuance of your commentary. But let’s be honest: the over 100 customizable aRGB LEDs are the real stars here. It is the most visually striking mic on the market, turning your desk into a light show that actually sounds professional.
- Key highlights: 32-bit/192kHz high-resolution audio; over 100 individually addressable RGB LEDs; multifunction knob for gain and monitor mix.
- Best for: High-end streamers and creators who want their hardware to be as much a part of the show as their gameplay.
2) Razer Seiren V3 ChromaThe Aesthetic Powerhouse
Why pick this: Razer knows its audience, and the Seiren V3 Chroma is a masterpiece of desk-side theater. But don't let the 360-degree RGB lighting fool you into thinking this is just a desk lamp. It features a Supercardioid pickup pattern, which is a fancy way of saying it is incredibly narrow-minded. It wants to hear you, and only you, effectively ignoring the hum of your PC fans or the person chatting in the next room. The multi-function tap-to-mute sensor even allows you to adjust the digital gain limiter with a few taps, ensuring you don't "clip" and ruin the audio for your viewers during a loud victory.
- Key highlights: Stream-reactive RGB lighting; multi-function tap-to-mute sensor; digital gain limiter and built-in shock absorber.
- Best for: Gamers and live-streamers who want a highly immersive, lighting-synced setup that sounds incredibly focused.
3) JBL Quantum Stream StudioThe Versatile Professional
Why pick this: JBL entered the microphone arena with the confidence of a legacy audio brand, and the Quantum Stream Studio is their heavyweight contender. It is built like a tank and sounds like a studio-grade condenser thanks to its triple 14mm condenser capsules. What makes it special is its flexibility; it features a built-in dynamic range compressor that ensures your voice stays at a consistent level, even if you go from a whisper to a shout. It is the Swiss Army knife of USB mics, ready for solo gaming, two-person interviews, or room-filling live sessions.
- Key highlights: 192kHz/24-bit studio-quality recording; four selectable pickup patterns (cardioid, omni, stereo, and bi-directional); real-time RGB VU meter for monitoring levels.
- Best for: The multi-hyphenate who games at night but needs a professional-grade setup for podcasts or multi-person live recordings by day.
4) Shure MV7+ Podcast MicrophoneThe Studio Standard
Why pick this: If you want to stop playing around and sound like you belong on a professional broadcast, this is the machine. The MV7+ is the USB-C evolution of a legendary studio lineage. Unlike the others, this is a dynamic microphone, meaning it is naturally better at rejecting background noise, making it perfect for non-treated rooms. It features a sleek LED touch panel for instant control and an "Auto Level Mode" which acts like a tiny sound engineer living inside the mic, constantly adjusting your volume so your broadcast never sounds distorted or too quiet.
- Key highlights: Hybrid USB-C and XLR output for future-proofing; Voice Isolation Technology; customizable LED panel and onboard DSP for real-time noise reduction.
- Best for: Serious podcasters and live-streamers who want the iconic "radio voice" and a mic that will last for years.
The Insight: How to Not Sound Like You're in a Cave
- The Proximity Effect: Most USB mics are designed to be used about 4 to 8 inches from your mouth. If you leave it two feet away next to your monitor, it will pick up the room bloom, that echoey, hollow sound that reminds everyone you’re in a spare bedroom.
- Mind the Plosives: When you say words with a "P" or a "B," you blast a gust of air into the mic. If your mic doesn't have a built-in pop filter, consider a cheap foam cover. Your listeners' ears will thank you.
- Gain is Not Volume: Think of gain as the sensitivity of the mic. If your friends or chat say you’re too quiet, don't just scream; turn up the gain. But be careful; too much gain will start picking up the air conditioner in the hallway.
- The Connectivity Choice: While XLR is the professional standard for studio environments, modern USB-C connections have closed the gap so significantly that for most creators, the convenience of a single cable far outweighs the complexity of an external mixer.
Final Words
Choosing a high-quality microphone is a rare act of digital altruism. You don't actually hear the benefit of your purchase; everyone else does. But when your voice comes through with the clarity and warmth of a professional host, it changes the dynamic of your community. Whether you go for the futuristic "2 S" power of the HyperX, the glowing showmanship of the Razer, the versatile reliability of the JBL, or the professional pedigree of the Shure, you are doing more than just buying a peripheral. You are ensuring that when you speak, you are actually heard. And in the middle of a chaotic live broadcast, that makes all the difference.
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ASUS Launches Three New Desktop PCs at Best Buy, Led by the First Snapdragon-Powered All-in-One
Two new all-in-one PCs arrive at Best Buy, including the world's first Snapdragon-powered AiO, delivering big screens, quiet performance, and plug-and-play simplicity
ASUS today announced the availability of two new all-in-one desktop PCs at Best Buy: the ASUS V400 AiO and the ASUS V600 AiO. Designed for families, students, and anyone who wants a large, clutter-free screen without the complexity of a traditional PC setup, both models are now available at Best Buy.
ASUS VM441QA
Both feature on-device AI capabilities, vibrant FHD touchscreens with 100% sRGB color accuracy, and a keyboard and mouse included in the box. The V400 is a milestone: the first all-in-one computer powered by the Snapdragon® X platform, delivering a 24” display in an ultra-slim, whisper-quiet design. The V600 goes bigger with a 27” screen, a 93% screen-to-body ratio, and a profile that's 25% thinner than its predecessor. With more households sharing devices across remote work, school, and entertainment, an all-in-one offers the screen size and comfort of a desktop with none of the setup complexity.
ASUS V400 AiO — Ultra-Slim, Ultra-Quiet, and a Category First
The ASUS V400 AiO (VM441QA) is the first all-in-one desktop built on the Snapdragon® X platform. The same energy-efficient architecture that transformed laptop battery life now enables an AiO that runs cooler and quieter than anything in its class. Its slim profile blends into a living room, and its near-silent operation means you'll forget it's running.
The 24" FHD display delivers crisp, vibrant visuals for browsing, video calls, and streaming. A built-in 45 TOPS neural processing unit powers on-device AI features including camera and microphone enhancement for video calls, smart photo editing with AI relighting, and intelligent search across files and apps. All processing happens locally, with no cloud connection required. The system features 16 GB LPDDR5X memory and 512 GB PCIe® 4.0 SSD storage, Wi-Fi 6, and a privacy-shutter camera with Windows Hello facial recognition.
The V400 is built on an entirely new ASUS chassis with a slim stand, clean rear profile, and a minimalist white finish designed to complement any room.
ASUS V600 AiO — 27” Touchscreen, Minimalist Design
The ASUS V600 AiO (VM670) offers a larger canvas: a 27" FHD touchscreen with a NanoEdge slim-bezel design that achieves a 93% screen-to-body ratio. With 100% sRGB color accuracy, the display looks vivid from virtually any seat in the room, whether someone is working at the desk or a child is following along from the side.
Touch interaction makes the V600 especially well-suited for kids doing homework, parents on video calls, or anyone who prefers tapping a screen to navigating with a mouse. It feels natural for students who grew up on tablets and approachable for family members who didn't.
The V600 is powered by up to the AMD Ryzen™ AI 7 350 processor with AMD Radeon™ 860M integrated graphics, a 50 TOPS NPU, up to 32 GB DDR5 memory, and Wi-Fi 6 connectivity. An HDMI-in port lets users connect a laptop to use the V600 as a secondary display, while HDMI-out supports an external monitor for extended desktop setups. The V600 is 25% thinner than its predecessor and ships in a clean white finish with a sturdy metal stand.
ASUS Also Expands Commercial Desktop Lineup with ExpertCenter P700
Alongside the new consumer AiOs, ASUS is bringing the ExpertCenter P700 Mini Tower (PM700MK) to Best Buy for small businesses and professionals looking to replace aging desktop PCs. The compact tower uses mobile-class AMD Ryzen™ AI processors in a desktop chassis, resulting in significantly lower power consumption and near-silent operation compared to traditional desktop builds.
The P700 supports up to the AMD Ryzen™ AI 7 350 processor and 16 GB DDR5 memory. Two PCIe® 4.0 expansion slots (x16 and x16) give users the option to add a discrete graphics card down the road. ASUS AI ExpertMeet enhances video conferencing with AI-powered noise cancellation, virtual backgrounds, and meeting assistance. Military-grade durability (MIL-STD 810H) and ASUS ExpertGuardian security features provide the reliability small businesses need without dedicated IT support.
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NVIDIA Launches Ising, the World’s First Open AI Models to Accelerate the Path to Useful Quantum Computers
NVIDIA Ising Delivers Breakthrough Performance in Quantum Calibration and Error Correction, Empowering Researchers and Enterprises to Build Scalable, High-Performance Quantum Systems
NVIDIA today announced the world’s first family of open source quantum AI models, NVIDIA Ising, designed to help researchers and enterprises build quantum processors capable of running useful applications.
To achieve useful quantum applications at scale, significant breakthroughs are needed in quantum processor calibration and quantum error correction. AI is key for turning today’s quantum processors into large-scale, reliable computers. Open models empower developers to build high-performance AI while maintaining total control over their data and infrastructure.
Named after a landmark mathematical model that dramatically simplified the understanding of complex physical systems, the NVIDIA Ising family provides high-performance, scalable AI tools for quantum error correction and calibration — two of the most critical challenges in building hybrid-quantum classical systems.
Ising models run the world’s best quantum processor calibration and enable researchers to tackle much larger, more complex problems with quantum computers by delivering up to 2.5x faster performance and 3x higher accuracy for the decoding process needed for quantum error correction.
“AI is essential to making quantum computing practical,” said Jensen Huang, founder and CEO of NVIDIA. “With Ising, AI becomes the control plane — the operating system of quantum machines — transforming fragile qubits to scalable and reliable quantum-GPU systems.”
The quantum computing market is expected to surpass $11 billion in 2030, according to analyst firm Resonance. This growth trajectory is highly dependent on continued progress in addressing critical engineering challenges, such as quantum error correction and scalability.
NVIDIA Ising includes state-of-the-art customizable models, tools and data that accelerate quantum processors:
- Ising Calibration: A vision language model that can rapidly interpret and react to measurements from quantum processors. This enables AI agents to automate continuous calibration, reducing the time needed from days to hours.
- Ising Decoding: Two variants of a 3D convolutional neural network model — optimized for either speed or accuracy — to perform real-time decoding for quantum error correction. Ising Decoding models are up to 2.5x faster and 3x more accurate than pyMatching, the current open source industry standard.
Ecosystem Adoption
Leading enterprises, academic institutions and research labs are adopting Ising for quantum computing development.Ising Calibration is already in use by Atom Computing, Academia Sinica, EeroQ, Conductor Quantum, Fermi National Accelerator Laboratory, Harvard John A. Paulson School of Engineering and Applied Sciences, Infleqtion, IonQ, IQM Quantum Computers, Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory’s Advanced Quantum Testbed, Q-CTRL and the U.K. National Physical Laboratory (NPL).
Ising Decoding is being deployed by Cornell University, EdenCode, Infleqtion, IQM Quantum Computers, Quantum Elements, Sandia National Laboratories, SEEQC, University of California San Diego, UC Santa Barbara, University of Chicago, University of Southern California and Yonsei University.
In addition, NVIDIA is providing a cookbook of quantum computing workflows and training data along with NVIDIA NIM™ microservices, equipping developers to fine-tune models for specific hardware architectures and use cases with minimal setup. The models can also run locally on researchers’ systems, protecting proprietary data.
NVIDIA Ising complements the NVIDIA CUDA-Q™ software platform for hybrid quantum-classical computing and integrates with the NVIDIA NVQLink™ QPU-GPU hardware interconnect for real-time control and quantum error correction, providing researchers and developers with a full suite of tools needed to turn today’s qubits into tomorrow’s accelerated quantum supercomputers.
Get Started With NVIDIA Open Models
NVIDIA Ising joins NVIDIA’s open model portfolio, which includes NVIDIA Nemotron™ for agentic systems, NVIDIA Cosmos™ for physical AI, NVIDIA Alpamayo for autonomous vehicles, NVIDIA Isaac™ GR00T for robotics and NVIDIA BioNeMo™ for biomedical research. -
Funky Kit Review - AULA HERO 68 HE 65% Gaming Keyboard
The FunkyKit review of the AULA Hero 68 HE presents this 65 percent gaming keyboard as an impressive entry-level option for those wanting to experience magnetic switch technology without a premium price tag. The standout feature is the inclusion of Hall Effect magnetic switches, which allow for fully adjustable actuation points and the highly sought after Rapid Trigger functionality. This tech provides a significant competitive advantage in fast-paced games by allowing for near-instant key resets. Despite its budget-friendly positioning, the keyboard features a solid build with a compact layout that maximizes desk space while still retaining dedicated arrow keys, making it a practical choice for both gaming and daily productivity.
" ... The AULA HERO 68 HE is a fast, responsive keyboard that delivers strong performance with its magnetic switches and customisation features. It is a great choice for gamers who want high-end functionality at a more affordable price point. "
When looking at the overall typing experience and customization, the reviewer notes that the Hero 68 HE punches above its weight with a surprisingly refined sound profile and smooth key travel. The keyboard is equipped with vibrant RGB lighting and supports extensive software customization to fine-tune the magnetic sensors to the user's specific tactile preference. It also includes high-quality PBT keycaps that resist wear and shine over time, which is a welcome addition at this price point. The review concludes that while it may lack the brand recognition of larger competitors, its combination of advanced Hall Effect features and robust construction makes it one of the best value-for-money options currently available for enthusiast gamers. -
The Grid-Proof Home: 4 Best UPS Battery Backups on Amazon
We’ve all been there: you’re mid-sentence in a career-defining email, or perhaps deep into the final, sweating-palms boss fight of a game you’ve spent forty hours mastering, and then... click. The lights flicker, the fridge hums a mournful goodbye, and your screen goes as dark as a Tamsui alley at midnight. In that heartbeat of silence, you realize that your "surge protector" was really just a glorified extension cord.
While the tech world is currently obsessed with "portable power stations" that look like heavy-duty lunchboxes for weekend campers, those aren't actually designed for the delicate dance of home computing. What you need is an Uninterruptible Power Supply (UPS). Think of it as a personal bodyguard for your motherboard. It doesn't just wait for the power to fail; it spends its life fastidiously "cleaning" the messy, fluctuating electricity coming out of your wall, ensuring your expensive OLEDs and GPUs are treated to a steady, velvet-smooth stream of power.
Here are the four machines that offer the highest C/P (Cost-to-Performance) ratio on the market right now and ready to save your bacon.
Our Best Picks
1) CyberPower CP1500AVRLCD3 (2026 Edition)
The Reliable Workhorse
Click to Buy on Amazon
Why pick this: If UPS systems had a "best-seller" list, CyberPower would be perpetually at the top. This 2026 refresh is the "Goldilocks" unit, not so expensive that you’ll regret the purchase, but muscular enough to keep a dual-monitor setup alive for the ten minutes you need to save your work and panic-shut down. The new tiltable LCD is a nice touch; it tells you exactly how much time you have left, which is much better than the cryptic "beeping" of older generations.- Key highlights: 1500VA/900W capacity; Automatic Voltage Regulation (AVR) that fixes power "sags" without draining the battery.
- Best for: The home office professional who wants a "set it and forget it" solution.
2) APC Back-UPS Pro BR1500MS2
The "Pure Power" Professional Choice
Click to Buy on Amazon
Why pick this: This is the insurance policy for the enthusiast. If your PC has a high-efficiency power supply (the kind that says "80-Plus Gold"), it likely expects "Pure Sine Wave" power. Cheaper UPS units spit out a "simulated" wave that can make your hardware buzz like a frustrated beehive. The APC Pro delivers power that is arguably cleaner than what your utility company provides. It’s the culinary-grade filtered water of electricity.- Key highlights: 1500VA/1000W; Pure Sine Wave output; modular battery design that actually allows you to replace the cells in five years rather than tossing the whole unit.
- Best for: High-end gaming rigs and sensitive home theater gear.
3) GoldenMate 1000W Lithium UPS
The Next-Gen Efficiency Leader
Click to Buy on Amazon
Why pick this: Traditional UPS units are heavy because they are filled with lead-acid batteries, the same tech that’s been in car engines since the Victorian era. GoldenMate has finally brought us into the future with LiFePO4 (Lithium) cells. It’s lighter, charges faster, and, most importantly, the battery will last ten years instead of three. It’s the "buy it once, cry once" choice for the modern home.- Key highlights: 1500VA/1000W; Lithium battery tech with 2,000+ life cycles; ultra-compact footprint.
- Best for: Tech early-adopters and anyone tired of lugging 25-pound lead bricks around.
4) Amazon Basics Standby UPS 800VA
The Budget "C/P" King
Click to Buy on Amazon
Why pick this: Sometimes you don't need to power a NASA-grade server; you just want your Wi-Fi to stay on so you can keep scrolling while the storm passes. This "power strip" style unit is small enough to hide behind a sofa or under a desk. It offers a spectacular C/P ratio for those who just want to keep the small stuff, like routers, smart hubs, or a laptop, from blinking out during a momentary brownout.- Key highlights: 800VA/450W; 12 outlets; straightforward "plug-and-use" design.
- Best for: Networking gear and basic living room entertainment setups.
The Insight: How to Not Overload Your Safety Net
Buying a UPS is a bit like buying a parachute: you want to make sure it’s actually rated for your weight before you jump. Here is how to find your "Safety Margin":
- The 20% Over-Spec Rule: Look at the Watts, not just the VA. If your PC pulls 700W, a 600W UPS will simply give up and shut down the moment the power cuts. Aim for a unit with 20% more wattage than your peak usage.
- The Waveform Matters: Modern high-end PCs (with Active PFC) can be picky. If you hear a weird "clicking" or your PC reboots even with a battery backup, you probably need a Pure Sine Wave unit like the APC or GoldenMate.
- The Wi-Fi Rule: Always plug your router and modem into the UPS. Even if your PC is off, keeping your internet alive during a neighborhood-wide blackout is a massive psychological win.
- The Lead-Acid Tax: Traditional batteries are consumables; they die every 36 months. If you hate maintenance, pay the "Lithium premium" upfront for the GoldenMate, your future self will thank you.
Final Words
At the end of the day, a UPS is the one piece of technology you should never actually notice. It lives in the shadows of your desk, humming quietly, acting as a buffer between your expensive electronics and the chaos of the municipal power grid. Whether you choose the reliable standard of CyberPower, the clinical precision of the APC, or the futuristic longevity of the GoldenMate, you’re doing more than buying a battery; you’re buying peace of mind. And in a world where a five-second power flicker can ruin a month of work, that feels like a bargain.
- Key highlights: 1500VA/900W capacity; Automatic Voltage Regulation (AVR) that fixes power "sags" without draining the battery.
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STORMCRAFT PC Launches Intel Core Ultra 7 270K Plus Gaming Desktop Lineup with GeForce RTX 5080, RTX 5070 Ti, RTX 5070 and RTX 5060 Ti
Southern California-built gaming desktops for creators, gamers and upgrade shoppers start at $1,799.99 with lifetime tech support
Chino, California, April 14, 2026 -- STORMCRAFT PC, the Southern California gaming PC brand founded by gamers and engineers, today announced the launch and retail availability of its new Intel Core Ultra 7 270K Plus gaming desktop lineup. Designed for gaming, streaming, content creation, and PC upgrades, the new prebuilt gaming PC family combines the Intel Core Ultra 7 270K Plus processor with NVIDIA GeForce RTX 5080, RTX 5070 Ti, RTX 5070, and RTX 5060 Ti graphics across four STORMCRAFT series: WIZARD WHITE, PHANTOM, SKYHAWK, and FALCON. With up to 24 cores, up to 5.5 GHz max turbo frequency, Intel AI Boost, DDR5 memory, Gen 4 SSD storage, and premium cooling, the lineup is built to give gamers, creators, enthusiasts, and hardcore players a stronger path to next-generation desktop performance.
“With this Intel Core Ultra 7 270K Plus launch, we wanted to bring customers a meaningful upgrade for better gaming and multitasking experiences,” said Frank Lee, Founder of STORMCRAFT PC. “This new lineup combines the latest Intel platform with NVIDIA GeForce RTX 50 Series graphics, giving gamers and creators more performance, faster responsiveness, and a wider range of system options across different price points. From our flagship WIZARD WHITE build to more accessible upgrade-ready desktops, every STORMCRAFT PC is built in Southern California and backed by lifetime tech support from our team.”
The new lineup is arranged from premium to more accessible options:
WIZARD WHITE WW270K0CC-580W1
A premium white gaming PC built for flagship gaming setups, creator workstations, and buyers who want high-end performance with standout visual appeal. It features NVIDIA GeForce RTX 5080 16GB graphics, MSI Z890 motherboard, 32GB DDR5 6000MHz RGB memory, and a 2TB Gen 4 SSD. MSRP: $3,099.99. Deal price: $2,999.99.PHANTOM PH270K0CC-57TW1
A high-performance enthusiast desktop designed for gamers and power users who want stronger graphics headroom and expanded storage. It features NVIDIA GeForce RTX 5070 Ti 16GB graphics, MSI Z890 motherboard, 32GB DDR5 6000MHz RGB memory, and a 2TB Gen 4 SSD. MSRP: $2,499.99. Deal price: $2,399.99.SKYHAWK SK270K0CB-570W1
A balanced performance gaming PC for players seeking a strong RTX 5070 system for modern AAA gaming, streaming, and multitasking. It features NVIDIA GeForce RTX 5070 12GB graphics, MSI B860 motherboard, 32GB DDR5 6000MHz RGB memory, and a 1TB Gen 4 SSD. MSRP: $1,999.99. Deal price: $1,899.99.FALCON FA270K0CB-56VW1
An accessible gaming PC upgrade for shoppers seeking a modern Intel Core Ultra desktop with GeForce RTX 5060 Ti performance at a more approachable price point. It features NVIDIA GeForce RTX 5060 Ti 16GB graphics, MSI B860 motherboard, 32GB DDR5 6000MHz RGB memory, and a 1TB Gen 4 SSD. MSRP: $1,899.99. Deal price: $1,799.99.Key features across the lineup include:
- Intel Core Ultra 7 270K Plus processor with up to 24 cores and up to 5.5 GHz max turbo frequency
- Intel AI Boost platform support for modern gaming, creator, and multitasking workflows
- NVIDIA GeForce RTX 50 Series graphics options from RTX 5060 Ti through RTX 5080
- 32GB DDR5 RGB memory and 1TB to 2TB Gen 4 SSD storage across the lineup
- Premium motherboard platforms, 360mm liquid cooling on select models, and upgrade-ready design
- STORMCRAFT lifetime tech support, plus 3-year labor, 2-year parts.
The new lineup is available now through the STORMCRAFT website, with select models also available through Amazon, Best Buy, and Newegg.
Additional retailer links by model:
FALCON FA270K0CB-56VS1 on Amazon
SKYHAWK SK270K0CC-57TS1 on Amazon
PHANTOM PH270K0CC-570N1 on Newegg
PHANTOM PH270K0CC-57TN1 on Newegg
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DeltaMate GPU Block - ROG Astral RTX 5080
With the DeltaMate GPU Block - ROG Astral 5080, Thermal Grizzly introduces the second GPU water block in its steadily growing product range. As a new feature, the GPU block is equipped with a viewing window made of high-quality borosilicate glass from Schott: BOROFLOAT® glass.
DeltaMate GPU Block - ROG Astral RTX 5080
The design of the DeltaMate GPU Block - ROG Astral 5080 water block is identical to that of other water blocks in the DeltaMate series and therefore shares their features:
- Ultra-high-performance microfins with a 0.2 mm structure width
- Full-metal construction with RGB-illuminated viewing window
- Targeted cooling of all VRAM and VRM components
- Configurable with a pass-through terminal (4-port) or direct terminal (2-port) made of brass
- Thermal paste, thermal pads, and putty included in the package
The special feature of the DeltaMate GPU Block - ROG Astral 5080 is the Schott BOROFLOAT® glass used here for the first time. In addition to visual effects in combination with the RGB LED lighting, the high-quality borosilicate glass offers the advantage of being UV-resistant. As real glass, borosilicate glass is also significantly harder and more scratch-resistant compared to relatively soft acrylic glass, which can easily be scratched during cleaning or by contact. Its chemical resistance (inertness) is another advantage, as real glass is, for example, not susceptible to alcohol-based cleaning agents, unlike acrylic glass.
The cooling performance of the DeltaMate GPU Block - ROG Astral RTX 5080 is based primarily on the optimized flow design of the coolant across the copper cooler. The cooler consists of two components screwed together: the smaller Core Coldplate for the graphics chip and the VRM/VRAM Coldplate for memory and voltage regulators.
The VRM/VRAM Coldplate and the separately manufactured Ultra-High-Performance Core Coldplate are milled from high-quality copper and then precision-blasted to achieve a uniform surface structure. In the final production step, the copper parts are nickel-plated. The slot width on the Ultra-High-Performance Coldplate is 0.2 mm, and the fin width is also 0.2 mm with a height of 2.5 mm. This results in a surface area of 13,440 mm² for the Core Coldplate.
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Shuttle XPC slim DH810 Barebone Review @ Madshrimps.be
The MadShrimps review of the Shuttle XPC slim DH810 highlights this barebone system as a versatile and robust solution for industrial and commercial environments where space is at a premium. Measuring only 1.3 liters in volume, the system is built with a durable metal chassis designed to withstand 24/7 operation in temperatures up to 50 degrees Celsius. Its primary appeal lies in the H810 chipset which supports powerful desktop processors, providing significantly more computing overhead than typical low-power N-series alternatives. This makes it an ideal candidate for high-demand digital signage, specialized workstations, or kiosk applications that require reliable, long-term performance in a compact form factor.
"Shuttle XPC slim DH810 offers a much-improved cooling system, accommodating most LGA1851 65W processors from Intel with integrated graphics. It can take up to 96GB of RAM via two memory slots in dual channel, a M.2 SSD (SATA or NVMe), a wireless card via the secondary M.2 2230 slot but also even more storage via the dedicated 2.5’ compartment for SSDs or HDDs. The barebone comes with plenty of ports for connecting different hardware, we have the possibility to enhance it further via the dedicated accessories and is priced competitively so it can surely go on your short list when in the market for a compact machine!"
Regarding connectivity and expandability, the DH810 is noted for its surprisingly dense array of ports and internal slots. The system features dual Intel Gigabit LAN and support for three independent displays via HDMI and DisplayPort, along with multiple COM ports for legacy hardware integration. While it requires the user to provide their own CPU, memory, and storage, the internal layout is designed for easy access, including dedicated slots for M.2 NVMe SSDs and a 2.5 inch SATA drive. The review concludes that while it lacks the flashy aesthetics of consumer gaming PCs, its mission-critical reliability and extensive I/O make it a top-tier choice for professional deployments that need a balance of power and extreme space efficiency. -
MSI MPG 322UR QD-OLED X24 Monitor Review @ TechPowerUp
The TechPowerUp review of the MSI MPG 322UR QD-OLED X24 identifies it as a significant generational refinement of the 32 inch 4K 240 Hz formula. While it maintains the familiar aesthetic of its predecessor, this X24 refresh incorporates Samsung’s fourth generation QD-OLED panel, which utilizes a five layer tandem structure to achieve higher full-screen brightness and better HDR impact. MSI has also upgraded the screen treatment with DarkArmor Film, which increases surface hardness to 3H and notably improves contrast and black depth when the monitor is used in brighter rooms. These hardware updates are complemented by the new OLED Care 3.0 suite, which features an AI presence sensor to proactively manage panel health and minimize the risk of burn-in.
MSI MPG 322UR QD-OLED X24 brings fifth generation V-Stripe QD-OLED technology to a 32-inch 4K panel, pairing a 3840×2160 resolution with a 240 Hz refresh rate, a 80 Gbps bandwidth DisplayPort 2.1a UHBR20 interface, and a price tag that undercuts its predecessor by $200. Improved text clarity, higher SDR brightness, and an AI Care Sensor make for a strong all-around package.
When evaluating the display's connectivity and overall value, reviewer Inle highlights the inclusion of DisplayPort 2.1a with full UHBR20 bandwidth as a standout feature for future-proofing. This allows for a completely uncompressed 4K 240 Hz signal path, which is a rare and welcome addition for high-end gaming setups. The monitor also caters to multi-device users with a USB-C port offering 98 W power delivery and an integrated KVM switch. Launching at $1,099, which is $200 less than the original model, the review concludes that the X24 is a compelling and more affordable alternative that manages to be objectively better than the screen it replaces. It stands as a top-tier choice for gamers seeking the current pinnacle of QD-OLED technology without paying the previous generation's premium. -
MSI MEG X870E Ace Max Motherboard Review @ TechPowerUp
The TechPowerUp review of the MSI MEG X870E Ace Max highlights this motherboard as a premium powerhouse that brings the high-end MEG lineage into a more case-friendly ATX form factor. Despite the shift from the larger EATX size of its predecessor, the Ace Max remains a top-tier Socket AM5 board, featuring a robust 24+2+1 phase power delivery system with 110A power stages. This hardware is cooled by massive VRM heatsinks and the innovative "EZ M.2 Shield Frozr II," which allows for tool-less access to its five M.2 slots. The inclusion of dual USB4 ports, 10 Gbps and 5 Gbps Ethernet, and Wi-Fi 7 support ensures that the board is fully prepared for future high-speed peripherals and networking standards.
MSI's high-end MEG Ace 800-series motherboard returns to Socket AM5, this time as a refreshed Max board with a unique rear M.2 port, with more PCIe Gen 5 ports and slots than you can shake a stick at and a well-balanced feature set. Is it worth the 'Max' price tag though?
When looking at real-world capability, reviewer Combatus emphasizes that the board excels in both stability and enthusiast-level customization. It introduces a larger 512 Mb BIOS and dedicated base clock tuning features on the PCB, catering specifically to users who want to push their Ryzen 7000 or 9000 series processors to the limit. MSI also incorporated several "EZ" DIY enhancements, such as a quick-release mechanism for the primary PCIe slot and a simplified antenna setup, which significantly streamlines the building experience. While it carries a substantial price tag, the analysis concludes that its combination of exceptional build quality, extensive storage options, and cutting-edge connectivity makes it a compelling choice for serious enthusiasts and creators.
