Tech News
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GAMEMAX Launches NEX C51 and NEX C31 Panoramic PC Cases
February 11th, 2026 – GAMEMAX, a rising innovator in PC gaming hardware, today announced the launch of the NEX C51 and NEX C31, two new panoramic PC cases designed to combine premium showcase aesthetics, advanced cooling support, and modern connectivity at an accessible price point.
Built for gamers and PC builders who want their hardware on full display, the NEX C51 and NEX C31 feature a pillar-free panoramic design with dual tempered glass panels, delivering a clean and uninterrupted view of internal components. With strong hardware compatibility and pre-installed ARGB cooling, the new NEX series is engineered to deliver exceptional value without compromise.
GAMEMAX NEX C51: Panoramic Showcase for Full-Size ATX BuildsThe GAMEMAX NEX C51 Panoramic ATX PC Case is designed for builders seeking a spacious, high-impact chassis that highlights premium components while maintaining excellent airflow. Its internal layout separates major heat-generating components from the power supply and cables, improving airflow efficiency and simplifying cable management.
Cooling flexibility is a key strength of the NEX C51, supporting up to a 360 mm top-mounted radiator and versatile fan configurations for high-airflow gaming systems. With support for GPUs up to 410 mm and CPU air coolers up to 175 mm, the NEX C51 is ready for today’s flagship graphics cards and performance cooling solutions. Modern front I/O, including 20 Gbps USB Type-C Gen2×2, ensures fast, future-ready connectivity.
Key Features• Pillar-free panoramic design with dual tempered glass panels
• Supports up to a 360 mm top radiator and flexible fan configurations (up to 9×120 mm or 2×140 mm + 6×120 mm)
• Supports graphics cards up to 410 mm and CPU air coolers up to 175 mm
• Front I/O with 20 Gbps USB Type-C Gen2×2 and dual USB 3.0 ports
• Includes three pre-installed 120 mm ARGB fans for effective cooling and vibrant lighting
• Exceptional price-performance value with premium features and broad hardware compatibility
GAMEMAX NEX C31: Compact Panoramic Design in an mATX Form FactorThe GAMEMAX NEX C31 Panoramic mATX PC Case brings the same core design philosophy as the NEX C51 into a more compact form factor, making it ideal for space-efficient builds without sacrificing visual impact or performance. Its pillar-free panoramic glass design delivers a clean, premium showcase that highlights internal components from multiple angles.
Despite its smaller footprint, the NEX C31 offers impressive cooling support, including compatibility with 360 mm top radiators and multiple fan configurations. It also supports GPUs up to 410 mm and CPU air coolers up to 175 mm, ensuring effortless compatibility with modern high-performance hardware. Pre-installed ARGB fans and modern front-panel connectivity complete a well-balanced, value-driven chassis.
Key Features• Pillar-free panoramic design with dual tempered glass panels
• Supports up to a 360 mm top radiator with versatile fan configurations for high airflow
• Supports graphics cards up to 410 mm and CPU air coolers up to 175 mm
• Modern front I/O featuring 20 Gbps USB Type-C Gen2×2 and dual USB 3.0 ports
• Three pre-installed 120 mm ARGB fans included out of the box
• Compact mATX design delivering premium features at a highly competitive price
Pricing, Warranty, and AvailabilityThe GAMEMAX NEX C51 and NEX C31 panoramic PC cases are backed by a 1-year limited warranty. Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Pricing (MSRP) is listed below:
• NEX C51 BK (Black): $54.99
• NEX C51 WH (White): $59.99
• NEX C31 BK (Black): $49.99
• NEX C31 WH (White): $54.99
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G.SKILL Officially Commences OC World Cup 2026 Overclocking Competition with $40,000 USD Total Prize Pool
(10 February 2026) – G.SKILL International Enterprise Co., Ltd, the world's leading brand of performance overclock memory, announces the Online Qualifiers stage for its 10th annual extreme overclocking event - OC World Cup 2026. The top 9 competitors from the Online Qualifiers stage will be qualified to advance to the live elimination final at the G.SKILL booth in Nangang Exhibition Hall 1, booth I0818, during the week of Computex 2026, to compete for the OC World Cup 2026 Overclocking Champion title and a share of the $40,000 USD prize pool, including a $10,000 USD grand prize for the OC champion.
One of the Most Anticipated Annual Extreme Overclocking EventThe G.SKILL World Cup extreme overclocking competition is widely regarded as one of the most prestigious annual event in extreme overclocking, drawing top overclock competitors from around the world. The three-stage competition – Online Qualifier, Live Qualifier, and Grand Final – culminates at Computex 2026, where the top 9 qualifiers from the Online Qualifier stage will compete live at the G.SKILL booth using liquid nitrogen that provides cooling down to -196°C, pushing hardware to its absolute limits in pursuit of extreme overclocking glory.
Competition Schedule
Online Qualifier: February 15, 2026 to March 23, 2026
Live Qualifier: June 2, 2026 to June 4, 2026
Grand Final: June 5, 2026The Challenge Begins
The Online Qualifier stage will be held on HWBOT, a globally authoritative overclocking ranking organization. All participants must use G.SKILL DDR5 memory and Intel Z790/Z890 platform to compete in five extremely demanding overclocking trials: maximum memory frequency, 7-ZIP, PYPrime 32B, SuperPi-32M, and Y-Cruncher 2.5B. The top 9 overclockers from the Online Qualifier stage will qualify for the Live Qualifiers stage at Computex 2026. For more detailed information about the G.SKILL World Cup 2026 Online Qualifier, please refer to the following link: Click Here
Largest Single Cash Prize & Total Prize Money of $40,000 USDG.SKILL continues its devoted support for the global extreme overclocking community, actively promoting international competitions. This year’s event features a $40,000 USD prize pool, including a $10,000 USD grade prize for the OC Champion, making it one of the extreme overclocking competitions worldwide with the highest prize.
10th Annual OC World Cup 2026 Cash Prize Breakdown:- OC Champion: $10,000 USD
- 2nd place: $6,500 USD
- 3rd place: $5,000 USD
- 4th place: $4,200 USD
- 5th place: $3,400 USD
- 6th place: $3,000 USD
- 7th place: $2,800 USD
- 8th place: $2,600 USD
- 9th place: $2,500 USD
Additionally, the top 9 overclockers from the Online Qualifier will each receive a DDR5-8000 32GB (2x16GB) memory kit. Two additional participants who have successfully completed all five challenge trials in the Online Qualifier will be randomly selected to each receive a DDR5-7200 32GB (2x16GB) memory kit.
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GMKtec M6 Ultra @ TechPowerUp
TechPowerUp finds the GMKtec M6 Ultra to be an exceptionally well-balanced mini PC that delivers strong performance far beyond what its compact size and price might suggest. Powered by an AMD Ryzen 5 7640HS processor with integrated Radeon 760M graphics, it handles everyday tasks such as word processing, spreadsheets, web browsing, media playback and even mid-range creative workloads like photo and 4K video editing with confidence. Dual DDR5 RAM slots and two M.2 SSD slots allow up to 128 GB of memory and 8 TB of storage, giving the system excellent upgrade flexibility for a small form factor machine. Connectivity is also a highlight, with USB4, HDMI 2.0, DisplayPort, Wi-Fi 6E, Bluetooth 5.2 and dual 2.5 GbE Ethernet ports providing plenty of options for displays and networking, and the included VESA mount makes it easy to tuck the unit behind a monitor to save desk space.
At around $510, the GMKtec M6 Ultra combines the Ryzen 5 7640HS with DDR5 memory in a compact system. It handles productivity, media, and light creative work effortlessly, while the Radeon 760M performs well for casual gaming and eSports titles. There are a few trade-offs, but overall, this Mini-PC offers impressive versatility and strong value for money.
In practical use, the M6 Ultra rarely falters, running Windows 11 Pro smoothly and making short work of everyday productivity and creative applications. It can even tackle moderate gaming at adjusted settings, with titles like DiRT Rally and Tekken 8 performing well, though it is not designed for high-end AAA gaming at native settings. The cooling system does its job, keeping performance steady even under load, but fan noise can become noticeable compared to larger desktop setups. The design is minimal and functional rather than flashy, making it a good fit for offices and home workstations alike. Overall, TechPowerUp concludes that the M6 Ultra offers excellent value by combining a capable processor, solid integrated graphics, plenty of upgrade headroom and real-world performance that meets the needs of most users, making it an ideal choice for space-constrained environments and cost-conscious buyers alike. -
ASUS ROG Kithara Gaming Headset Review @ ThinkComputers
ThinkComputers finds the ASUS ROG Kithara Gaming Headset to deliver outstanding audio clarity that stands out even among high-end gaming headsets. Music and movies benefit the most from its open-back design, with sound described as crisp, clean, and highly detailed, revealing nuances that are often lost on typical gaming-focused headsets. This sense of openness and clarity translates especially well to story-driven and open-world games, where immersion, atmosphere, and environmental detail matter more than precise positional cues. In titles like Warhammer 40,000: Space Marine 2, the headset enhances the overall experience by pulling the player deeper into the game world through its rich and natural sound presentation.
"Earlier this year at CES 2026 ASUS was really excited about their new ROG Kithara gaming headset. They told us that it was a collab with HiFiMan and that the headset makes use of 100mm planar magnetic drivers. Not being an audiophile all of these was like a foreign language to me. I did however had a change to actually test these headphones at the ASUS booth and I was quite impressed. Fast forward about a month and I've been using this gaming headset for a couple of weeks now as my daily driver, not only for gaming but listening to music and watching media on my PC. In the review we are going to see if someone who isn't an audiophile can tell the difference between this headset and a more standard gaming headset. Let's jump in!"
When it comes to competitive gaming, particularly fast-paced FPS titles, the Kithara is more specialized. While positional audio is present, it does not match the pinpoint accuracy offered by closed-back headsets with surround or spatial audio processing, which remain better suited for competitive shooters. The lack of dedicated software support also limits fine-tuning options such as FPS-focused EQ profiles, which may be a drawback for players who like to tailor audio to specific genres. The open-back design further means external noise can be heard and some sound leakage is unavoidable, although microphone performance remains unaffected. Ultimately, ThinkComputers positions the ROG Kithara as a premium wired headset best suited for casual gamers, single-player enthusiasts, and users who value exceptional sound clarity for games, music, and movies, earning it an 8 out of 10 score despite its higher price point. -
Fractal Design North Momentum Edition Computer Case Review @ APH Networks
APH Networks reviews the Fractal Design North Momentum Edition as a refined take on the already popular North chassis, focusing on improved airflow and a more complete out-of-the-box experience. The case keeps the minimalist Scandinavian-inspired design, complete with its distinctive wood-accented front panel, while adding three pre-installed Momentum 12 fans to enhance cooling performance without sacrificing acoustics. Internally, the layout remains builder-friendly with ample space for ATX, micro-ATX, and Mini-ITX motherboards, support for large graphics cards, and flexible radiator mounting options. Cable management is straightforward thanks to generous routing space, reusable straps, and well-placed grommets, reinforcing the North’s reputation as both stylish and practical.
The Fractal Design North Momentum Edition is a computer case that offers an updated stealthy appearance, upgraded fans, and an easy installation process.
Rather than reinventing the platform, the Momentum Edition focuses on refinement. Build quality remains excellent, panels are easy to remove, and airflow is strong enough to support modern high-performance components with minimal fuss. While it does not introduce radical new features such as native vertical GPU mounting, the inclusion of quality fans and the polished execution make it a more compelling package than the original for users starting a fresh build. APH Networks positions the North Momentum Edition as an ideal choice for builders who value clean aesthetics, strong airflow, and ease of assembly, offering a balanced mid-tower case that prioritizes thoughtful design over unnecessary complexity. -
Alphacool Apex Thermal Putty X1
Alphacool International GmbH from Braunschweig is a pioneer in PC water cooling technology. With one of the most comprehensive product portfolios in the industry and over 20 years of experience, Alphacool now expands its lineup with the Apex Thermal Putty X1.
The Alphacool Apex Thermal Putty X1 is a high-performance alternative to conventional thermal pads. As a non-curing, electrically non-conductive silicone gel, it adapts perfectly to uneven surfaces and varying gap heights with minimal contact pressure. No need to choose pad thickness, no compromises, lower temperatures.
A key advantage of the Apex Thermal Putty lies in its optimal consistency for handling and shape stability. Under light pressure, the material adapts ideally to different gap heights while remaining dimensionally stable. This reliably compensates for unevenness and tolerances between the cooler and the component, ensuring optimal contact between the heat source and the heatsink at all times. This is especially important for modern graphics cards and other sensitive electronic components, as delicate parts such as memory chips or voltage regulators are effectively protected from damage.
At the same time, its high vertical stability and long-term stable material properties ensure lasting material integrity without sagging, cracking, or contamination of adjacent components, making the product ideal for professional applications.
Features:
- Replaces conventional thermal pads
- High thermal conductivity with reduced BLT
- Adapts to manufacturing tolerances and surface irregularities
- Stable under heat and in vertical mounting positions
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Grow Lights on Your Desk: The Best Desktop Hydroponic Systems on Amazon in 2026
Every spring the same thing happens. You look at a wilted supermarket basil plant on the counter and think, “There has to be a better way.” Desktop hydroponic systems are basically the tech upgrade to that moment. Instead of soil bags and guesswork, you get a compact appliance that handles light cycles, water circulation, and nutrients so you can grow herbs and greens on autopilot. From a tech editor’s point of view, these systems are small, purpose-built ecosystems. A full spectrum LED panel replaces the sun. A low noise pump keeps water and nutrients moving so roots do not suffocate. A timer or mode button stands in for the part of your brain that normally forgets to water for three days straight. The result is not just a gimmick on the counter. When done well, a desktop hydroponic kit behaves like a repeatable platform for growing basil, lettuce, dwarf tomatoes, and flowers in any apartment that has a wall outlet.
For this roundup, the focus is on four desktop hydroponic systems that are actively available on Amazon US with a track record of buyers actually using them. URUQ and hdroor cover the high-capacity 12-pod category with larger tanks and stronger lights. Ahopegarden layers in environmental data and a more vertical footprint. Yadoker brings a smaller, design forward eight pod system that still behaves like real hardware instead of decor.
The 4 best desktop hydroponic picks on Amazon
1) URUQ 12 Pods Indoor Hydroponics Growing System
Why this pick
If you want a system that is clearly built to grow more than three sprigs of basil, URUQ’s 12 pod kit is the workhorse choice. It uses a 24 watt full spectrum LED panel that simulates sunlight and is set to run roughly 14 to 16 hours on and 8 to 10 hours off, so you get consistent growth cycles without touching a timer. URUQ also claims up to five times faster growth compared with soil under that light schedule, and the 6.5 liter style water tank plus circulation pump keep roots oxygenated instead of sitting in stagnant water.
The lamp post can be raised up to about 21 inches and rotated to 180 degrees, which matters once the plants get tall. There are also tailored modes for leafy greens, herb growth, and flowers or fruits, so you are not stuck with one generic setting.
Key specs and features
- 12 pod capacity with a large reservoir in the six liter class
- 24 watt full spectrum LED grow light with automatic on and off cycle
- Quiet recirculation pump that runs on a repeating on and off schedule to oxygenate roots
- Adjustable lamp height up to about 21 inches with 180 degree rotation for taller plants
- Multiple light modes tuned for vegetables, herbs, and flowers or fruiting plants
Best for: Home cooks and small families who want a bigger harvest and less refilling, and who actually plan to eat salads and herbs every week, not just grow a single basil plant for show.
2) Ahopegarden Hydroponics Growing System Kit, 12 Pods
Why this pick
Ahopegarden’s 12 pod kit is the more data friendly option. It adds an LCD screen with real time temperature and humidity readouts, which might be overkill for casual users but is very satisfying if you are the type of person who likes to know what is happening in your little indoor greenhouse. The system runs a 16 hour on and 8 hour off light cycle using a full spectrum LED array, and the brand claims around 300 percent faster growth compared with soil under ideal conditions.
The design leans vertical to save counter space. The 5 liter water tank has a transparent window so you can see water level at a glance. The light post can be raised up to about 17.3 inches, which is enough clearance for leafy greens, dwarf tomatoes, and compact flowers. Two distinct light modes bias the spectrum toward leafy vegetables or fruits and flowers, so you can tune the system toward whatever you actually plant.
Key specs and features
- 12 pod capacity with a 5 liter tank and visible water level window
- Full spectrum LED grow light with 16 hour on and 8 hour off cycle
- Blue leaning mode for greens and red leaning mode for fruiting plants
- LCD screen with real time temperature and humidity data
- Quiet pump that runs in 30 minute intervals plus low water indicator
Best for: Users who want a compact but capable vertical garden and who like having environmental data on the front panel instead of treating the whole system as a black box.
3) hdroor Hydroponics Growing System Kit, 12 Pods
Why this pick
hdroor’s 12 pod kit is the practical choice that still checks all the right boxes. It uses a large six liter class tank with a deep design that makes it easier to lift and refill, and it has a full spectrum LED light that is configured for a simple 16 hour on and 8 hour off schedule. The brand highlights up to five times faster growth than soil in its product description when combined with their pump cycle, which runs 30 minutes on and 30 minutes off.
The system focuses more on function than flash. You get two main modes that bias light and timing toward leafy greens or flowering and fruiting plants, adjustable lamp height in the roughly 17 inch range, and enough included pods and accessories to get multiple rounds of planting out of the box. A visible coupon on the Amazon page at the moment usually keeps the real world price in a very reasonable range for a 12 pod system.
Key specs and features
- 12 pod indoor garden with a large six liter water reservoir
- Full spectrum LED grow light with 16 hour on and 8 hour off cycle
- Quiet pump with 30 minute on and off circulation pattern
- Two grow modes for vegetables and for flowers or fruits
- Adjustable lamp height up to about 17 inches
Best for: First time hydroponic users who want a straightforward, all in one kit that prioritizes growth speed and tank size over decorative finishes or extra sensors.
4) Yadoker Indoor Hydroponic Garden System, 8 Pods
Why this pick
Yadoker’s system is the stylish one in the group. It is a smaller eight pod garden with a bamboo style base and a slim aluminum light arm, so it looks more like a piece of decor on a desk or kitchen counter than a pure gadget. Underneath that design, however, you still get a 24 watt full spectrum LED panel, a 3.5 liter water tank, and an automatic pump system that circulates water and nutrients on a timer.
A key detail is the lighting control. The panel supports three timing cycles where the light can be on for 8, 12, or 18 hours and off for the complementary 16, 12, or 6 hours. That gives you flexibility to balance plant needs with your own preferences for how bright the room is at night. The footprint is compact but still has room for a good mix of herbs and small greens.
Key specs and features
- Eight pod capacity with a 3.5 liter water tank
- 24 watt full spectrum LED with three selectable timing cycles
- Built in circulation pump with automated cycling
- Bamboo look base and slim metal arm for a cleaner aesthetic
- Ideal for herbs, small leafy greens, and compact flowers
Best for: Anyone who wants a good looking, smaller system that fits on a counter, shelf, or work desk without dominating the space, while still delivering real hydroponic performance.
Quick buying tipsIf you are used to thinking about tech specs, shopping for a hydroponic system is not that different from shopping for a monitor or a speaker. Start with capacity and tank size. If you want frequent salads or cook a lot, a 12 pod system with a 5 to 6.5 liter tank, such as URUQ, Ahopegarden, or hdroor, makes more sense than a tiny three pod gift kit. A smaller eight pod system like Yadoker is better when space and aesthetics matter more than output.
Next, look at light power and timing. All four of these systems use full spectrum LED panels and run long on cycles, usually in the 14 to 18 hour range, to mimic a long growing day and accelerate photosynthesis. Systems that handle timing for you reduce the chance you accidentally leave the light off for two days and stall growth. URUQ, hdroor, and Ahopegarden all provide fixed or mode based schedules, while Yadoker gives three selectable cycles so you can match your daily rhythm.
Finally, think about noise and maintenance. Every kit here uses a quiet pump that runs in cycles instead of constantly, which is important if the system lives next to your keyboard or TV. Larger tanks can support several weeks of growth before refilling, which is ideal if you have a busy schedule. Features like water level windows and low water alerts also reduce the chance of waking up to very thirsty plants.
Final thoughtsDesktop hydroponic systems sit in a fun spot between kitchen gear and smart home gadget. Once you set them up, the technology mostly disappears into the background. The LEDs cycle on and off, the pump quietly moves water, and the only time you really have to think about it is when you clip a handful of basil or lettuce and realize how much better it tastes than a plastic clamshell from the store. For a relatively small footprint and a modest power draw, you get a reliable little growing platform that keeps paying you back in fresh herbs and greens.
In this lineup, URUQ’s 12 pod system is the high capacity choice with a strong light, tall lamp column, and a large tank that favors people who want a steady flow of greens and herbs. Ahopegarden’s smart kit does similar work but compresses the footprint and adds real time temperature and humidity data along with tailored light modes, which will appeal to more detail-oriented users. hdroor’s 12 pod garden is the no-nonsense option with a big reservoir and a simple growth profile that focuses on fast results rather than extra screens. Yadoker’s eight pod system rounds out the list for readers who want something smaller and better looking on a desk or counter, but still expect a genuine hydroponic grow cycle with proper light and pumping.
As of early February 2026, all four are listed on Amazon US with active purchase options and clear return policies. Prices move with coupons and promotions, so before you publish the article, it is worth plugging in the ASINs and double-checking current pricing and availability. From a tech lifestyle perspective, each one offers a credible way to turn a bit of countertop into a small, self-managed garden that runs quietly in the background while you work, cook, or game.
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LevelPlay Releases Combat Liquid HUD and Combat Liquid SE All-in-One Coolers
Taipei, February 3rd, 2026 – Levelplay is proud to announce the launch of its latest all-in-one (AIO) CPU cooling solutions, the Combat Liquid HUD and Combat Liquid SE, expanding the Combat Liquid family with performance-driven cooling and real-time system visibility. Designed for gamers and PC enthusiasts who demand immediate access to live CPU data, the Combat Liquid 360 HUD features an integrated digital display on the pump cap that presents critical system information at a glance, while delivering high-efficiency thermal performance for modern high-core processors.
More Than Just a Display
The Combat Liquid 360 HUD is more than a high-performance CPU cooler — it’s a real-time command center for your system. At the heart of the cooler is a 2.6″ circular digital display, transforming the pump cap into a mission-ready HUD that delivers live system intelligence at a glance. The display provides real-time readouts including CPU temperature, usage rate, power draw, and clock speeds, allowing users to monitor performance instantly without relying on on-screen software overlays. Simply update the driver from https://levelplaytech.com/drivers-manuals/ and unlock full access to the HUD’s real-time system monitoring features.
Combat Liquid SE Series
Building on Combat’s core cooling architecture, the Combat Liquid 240 SE and 360 SE models offer the same proven pump and radiator performance in a streamlined design, delivering reliable thermal headroom with a clean, minimalist aesthetic. Together, the Combat Liquid HUD and SE series provide scalable cooling solutions for a wide range of PC builds, from performance-focused gaming systems to high-end content creation rigs.
Precision Cooling, Simplified
Both the Combat Liquid HUD and Combat Liquid SE coolers feature a rigid all-in-one fan design that integrates three 120mm cooling fans into a single unified frame. Pre-installed from the factory, this design minimizes cable clutter, simplifies installation, and ensures maximum airflow is directed precisely where it matters most, through the radiator. Paired with synchronized ARGB lighting, the integrated fan assembly delivers consistent cooling performance while keeping your build clean, organized, and visually striking.
Designed for modern platforms, the Combat Liquid HUD and SE series support the latest processors, including Intel® LGA 1700 and LGA 1851 CPUs, as well as AMD® AM4 and AM5 sockets. Each cooler ships with all required mounting hardware for straightforward installation, allowing users to get up and running quickly. Whether you choose the data-driven Combat Liquid HUD or the streamlined Combat Liquid SE, both solutions deliver reliable thermal performance, reduced noise, and a refined build experience for high-performance PC systems.
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HYTE X50 PC Case Review @ ThinkComputers
ThinkComputers comes away very impressed with the HYTE X50 PC case, calling it one of their favorite enclosures reviewed in recent memory. True to HYTE’s design language, the X50 stands out visually while remaining highly functional. Its rounded exterior eliminates sharp angles, and the curved glass side panel gives the case a distinctive look that feels both retro and futuristic at the same time. Internally, HYTE makes a bold choice by mounting the power supply at the top of the case, a layout rarely seen today. While unconventional, it works well here and even turns the PSU into a visual element through the curved glass, though it does slightly limit graphics card power cable routing flexibility.
"It seems each time HYTE comes out with a product we are impressed. These products always stand out from everything that is out there, but at the same time just make sense and makes you wonder why no one had come out with them previously. Today's product is very much the same. Today we are taking a look at the HYTE X50, which is the company's latest PC case. It features a unique design with its rounded edges (including rounded glass), micro-mesh on the front for proper airflow, what some would call an "old school" interior design, room inside for 10 fans and the latest hardware, and of course this case is available in some pretty wild colors! Let's take a look and see if this is the case you should be considering for your next build!"
From a building and cooling perspective, the X50 is thoughtfully designed and easy to work with. It supports up to ten fans and 360 mm radiators, offering plenty of airflow potential, although the case does not include any fans out of the box. Cable management is a highlight thanks to well-placed routing holes, unique grommets, and integrated Velcro tie-downs that make organizing cables straightforward. While back-connect motherboard support is absent and would have introduced complications with the storage bracket, the overall execution leaves little to complain about. ThinkComputers ultimately awards the HYTE X50 a strong recommendation, praising its unique design, build friendliness, and flexibility, while noting that a fan-included version would make an already excellent case even more appealing. -
SilverStone MS12-40G SSD Enclosure @ TechPowerUp
TechPowerUp’s review of the SilverStone MS12-40G SSD enclosure highlights it as a USB4-capable external solution for M.2 NVMe drives with support for up to 40 Gbps theoretical bandwidth. The enclosure uses an ASMedia ASM2464PD controller that enables USB4 and Thunderbolt tunneling and PCIe 4×4 support on the downstream port, and its aluminum body doubles as a heatsink with an embedded 30 × 30 mm fan for active cooling. In performance testing, the MS12-40G consistently approaches the limits of USB4, delivering sequential speeds near the 40 Gbps mark, making it a strong performer for high-speed external storage when connected to compatible USB4 ports on modern motherboards. The bundle includes thermal pads, a USB-C cable and a screwdriver, and installation is straightforward though it requires unscrewing the top cover rather than sliding the enclosure open.
The new SilverStone MS12-40G is a compact and lightweight M.2 SSD enclosure featuring a 40 Gbps USB4 or Thunderbolt 4 interface with fan-based active cooling, letting you give an unused M.2 NVMe SSD a new lease of life as a formidable portable SSD.
However, the review also notes that the enclosure’s cooling is not entirely sufficient under sustained heavy loads. During prolonged stress testing with sequential reads and writes, the SSD inside reached temperatures around 85 °C and thermal throttling occurred on writes despite the fan and aluminum body, and the enclosure surface itself reached around 57 °C, indicating that heat management could have been better. The MS12-40G’s requirement to undo four screws for drive installation is a minor usability downside compared to tool-less designs on some competitors. Given its price point of around 119.90 USD, the reviewer suggests it is somewhat steep relative to other USB4 enclosures on the market, but concedes that its strong raw transfer rates are close to the interface’s limits, and SilverStone’s build quality remains respectable overall. The review ultimately sees the MS12-40G as a capable enclosure for users who want the fastest possible external NVMe performance, tempered by concerns about sustained thermals and value at its price.
