Tech News
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Lexar NQ780 4TB Solid State Drive Review @ APH Networks
APH Networks reviewed the Lexar NQ780 4TB as a budget-friendly PCIe 4.0 NVMe SSD that delivers solid performance with impressive endurance for a QLC-based drive. It uses the Innogrit IG5236 controller and four 1TB Intel 144-layer QLC NAND chips, relying on host memory buffer instead of onboard DRAM. Despite being a QLC drive, it is rated for 2,400 terabytes written, which is quite generous at 600 TBW per terabyte. The packaging was simple but effective, and the drive includes a five-year warranty, making it a practical option for users who prioritize storage volume and value.
The Lexar NQ780 4TB is a QLC-based NVMe SSD with a surprisingly good write endurance, but has performance that matches its budget price.
In testing, the NQ780 reached sequential read speeds close to 7,000 MB/s and write speeds around 6,000 MB/s under synthetic benchmarks. Performance during random access tasks and real-world file transfers was strong while the SLC cache was active. As expected with QLC NAND, write speeds dropped after the cache was exhausted, but the drive remained responsive for most tasks. APH Networks concluded that while it may not be the fastest or most feature-rich SSD, the NQ780 offers great capacity, good endurance, and reliable performance for budget-conscious users who need a high-capacity solution without breaking the bank.
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The Best Home Theater Soundbars Available on Amazon for less than $300
In this 2025 Amazon buying guide, we’ve handpicked five of the best home theater soundbars available on Amazon US. Each model comes from a different brand, was launched within the past three years, and stands out for its excellent cost-to-performance ratio, strong user feedback, and proven audio quality in real-world living room setups.
The days of relying on bulky AV receivers and multiple wired speakers to achieve theater-style audio are long gone. Today’s soundbars offer powerful, immersive sound in sleek, space-saving designs. With modern features like Dolby Atmos, DTS Virtual:X, and wireless connectivity, even midrange models now deliver a cinematic experience that rivals more complex systems.
For shoppers with a budget between $150 and $300, this category offers outstanding value. Many of the latest models include high-efficiency wireless subwoofers, refined center-channel tuning for clearer dialogue, and HDMI eARC for seamless TV connections. Whether you're upgrading your movie nights, enhancing your gaming audio, or replacing underpowered built-in TV speakers, these soundbars offer a meaningful step up in both performance and convenience.
Top 5 Home Theater Soundbars Under $300
1. Samsung HW-B550D – 3.1 Channel Immersive Sound with Game Mode
Results Provided by Amazon- Key Specs:
- 5.1 channel audio
- Wireless subwoofer
- DTS Virtual:X
- Game Mode, Adaptive Sound Lite
- Why This Pick:
- Samsung’s HW?-B550D is one of the newest additions to their soundbar lineup and offers excellent performance at its price point. The wireless subwoofer delivers punchy bass, while DTS Virtual:X simulates surround sound for a cinematic experience. With Game Mode and Adaptive Sound Lite, it automatically optimizes audio depending on content type, making it a versatile pick for TV, film, and gaming alike.
2. Vizio SV510X-08 – True 5.1 Dolby Atmos SystemResults Provided by Amazon- Key Specs:
- 5.1.2-channel audio
- Dolby Atmos and DTS:X support
- Wireless subwoofer and satellite speakers for real surround sound
- HDMI eARC
- Why This Pick:
- One of the few true 5.1 systems under $300, the Vizio SV510X delivers impressive spatial performance thanks to upfiring height speakers and immersive surround output. It includes full-size rear satellites, making it a complete home theater system for small and mid-size rooms. It is also one of the newest releases in Vizio’s QuickFit line, launched in 2024.
3. Majority Sierra 2.1.2 – Dolby Atmos Audiophile Value
Results Provided by Amazon- Key Specs:
- 2.1.2 channels
- Dolby Atmos
- wireless subwoofer
- 400 W total output
- Bluetooth and HDMI ARC
- USB, AUX, Optical, RCA
- Why Pick This:
- The Sierra delivers true Dolby Atmos performance with up-firing drivers and a robust wireless subwoofer—rare at this price. Reviewers call its “room-filling volume” and “crisp highs with rich lows” impressive for a budget model
4. Bose TV Speaker – Voice Clarity in a Compact Design
Results Provided by Amazon- Retail Price: Around $279
- Key Specs:
- 2.0 channel audio
- Dialogue mode for voice clarity
- Bluetooth and HDMI ARC
- Optical and AUX inputs
- Why This Pick:
- While it doesn’t include a subwoofer, the Bose TV Speaker focuses on what matters most for everyday viewing: clear speech and compact form. This is a great option for those in smaller spaces or who want a no-fuss, plug-and-play sound upgrade. Dialogue mode enhances vocal frequencies, making it especially helpful for movies and news content.
5. Sony HT-S400 – Solid 2.1 System with Wireless SubwooferResults Provided by Amazon- Key Specs:
- 2.1 channel audio with 160-watt wireless subwoofer
- S-Force PRO Front Surround
- 330 watts total output
- HDMI ARC, optical, and Bluetooth connectivity
- Why This Pick:
- Sony’s HT-S400 is a reliable midrange performer that offers excellent audio clarity, respectable bass, and a simplified setup. S-Force PRO virtual surround creates a wider soundstage without the need for rear speakers. It’s an ideal upgrade for users who want better cinematic sound without a complex multi-speaker setup.
ConclusionHigh-performance home theater audio no longer requires a premium investment or complicated setup. Today’s best soundbars under $300 deliver impressive features such as Dolby Atmos, wireless subwoofers, HDMI ARC connectivity, and user-friendly controls. This carefully selected lineup showcases five standout models, each offering excellent real-world performance and value for the price.
For immersive surround sound, both the Samsung HW-B550D and Vizio SV510X-08 stand out. Samsung’s 5.1-channel system brings cinematic clarity and bass, along with gaming-focused features like Game Mode. Vizio’s 5.1 setup takes it a step further with true Dolby Atmos and rear satellite speakers for expansive room-filling audio. The Majority Sierra 2.1.2 is an exceptional option for those who want upward-firing Atmos effects and full-bodied audio from a sleek and affordable system.
If space-saving simplicity and vocal clarity are your top priorities, the Bose TV Speaker and Sony HT-S400 are excellent choices. Bose offers enhanced dialogue in a minimalist package ideal for small living rooms or bedrooms. Sony combines strong bass, virtual surround, and effortless setup for a reliable daily listening experience. Whichever model you choose, these soundbars represent the best balance of performance, features, and price currently available on Amazon US. Let your home entertainment system sound as good as it looks.
- Key Specs:
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SilverStone SETA H2 @ TechPowerUp
TechPowerUp reviewed the SilverStone SETA H2 and described it as a full-tower case designed with maximum storage and cooling flexibility in mind. Built with a solid steel exterior and a clean, understated look, the chassis supports a wide range of motherboard sizes from Mini-ITX to SSI-EEB. The standout feature is its ability to house up to fifteen drives, including eleven 3.5-inch and four 2.5-inch units, making it ideal for storage-focused systems or workstation builds. The SETA H2 also supports large components like 428 mm GPUs, 220 mm power supplies, and radiators up to 420 mm in both the front and top sections. Multiple fan mounts and full-length dust filters round out the case’s extensive cooling options.
"The SETA H2 may look like a larger variant of the SETA H2M on the ouside, but its interior has as little in common as its exterior does to the H1. Offering a whopping 15 storage bays, good cooling potential and eight expansion slots, the SETA H2 is hyper-focused as the go-to chassis for storage servers or AI workstations."
During testing, TechPowerUp found the case easy to work with, thanks to its spacious interior and well-planned layout. While the chassis does not include pre-installed fans, its open airflow design and full dust filtering helped maintain solid thermal performance. Cable management was straightforward, and the tool-less drive mounting system was convenient for high-capacity setups. Although it lacks visual extras like tempered glass panels or RGB lighting, the SETA H2 delivers on function and expandability. TechPowerUp concluded that it is a strong choice for users building powerful storage-heavy systems or workstations where airflow, drive support, and practical design take priority over flashy aesthetics.
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ASUS ROG Aura Monitor Light Bar Review @ ThinkComputers
ThinkComputers reviewed the ASUS ROG Aura Monitor Light Bar and praised it for its sleek design and practical front-facing illumination. The main light offers excellent brightness and adjustability, including control over both brightness levels and color temperature. It provides a soft, focused down-glow that is ideal for reading, working, or general desk lighting without causing any glare on the monitor. Installation is simple, and the bar fits comfortably on both flat and curved monitors. The included DisplayWidget software is lightweight and user-friendly, offering convenient customization options, while Armoury Crate can be used to sync the RGB effects with other ASUS components.
"One thing that I always suggest to people once they have their system built and their setup complete is some type of light. That either ends up being a desk light or a light bar. I am a bigger fan of light bars as they easily sit on top of your monitor and give you that nice down-glow. ASUS has recently introduced their ROG Aura Monitor Light Bar (ALB01). This asymmetrical lighting bar features your normal normal desk lighting, but also rear-facing RGB lighting to give your setup that nice back glow. It also has a patented clamp and magnetic buckle so this light bar will work with both flat and curved monitors. Let's take a look and see how this light bar is different from others that are out there!"
However, the review found the rear-facing RGB lighting to be underwhelming. It lacked brightness and did not include any manual control for adjusting its intensity. While the main light performs very well, the $199 price tag felt hard to justify, especially considering other competitive light bars on the market offer similar or better value at nearly half the cost. The inability to manage all functions through Armoury Crate was also seen as a missed opportunity for users already invested in the ASUS ecosystem. Ultimately, ThinkComputers gave the ROG Aura Monitor Light Bar a score of 7 out of 10, highlighting it as a solid but overpriced choice for users seeking premium desk lighting with limited RGB appeal. -
NZXT Kraken Elite 420 RGB (2025 model): Super Cool and Unique LCS cooler Review @ Guru3D
Guru3D reviewed the NZXT Kraken Elite 420 RGB and positioned it as the new premium offering in NZXT’s all-in-one liquid cooler lineup. This model features a large 420 mm radiator paired with NZXT’s upgraded Turbine pump and a striking 70 mm circular IPS LCD on the pump block, which can display system stats or custom graphics. Surrounding the screen is an RGB ring that enhances visual appeal. The cooler includes pre-applied thermal paste, tool-free brackets, and braided tubes with swivel fittings, all contributing to an easy installation experience. It also features a streamlined single-cable setup and comes in both white and black finishes, launching at around 335 US dollars.
The 2025 addition to NZXT’s Kraken Elite series is the 420 mm liquid cooler, offered exclusively in an RGB configuration. This flagship cooler features a matte-white or matte-black finish, with no non-RGB alternative for this size. It extends the existing Elite V2 lineup, which already includes 240 mm, 280 mm, and 360 mm variants, positioning the 420 mm model as the top-tier option for users seeking maximum radiator surface area.
In performance testing, the Kraken Elite 420 RGB showed strong cooling efficiency and quiet operation. Under a sustained workload at 21 degrees Celsius ambient temperature, it kept CPU temperatures around 60 degrees, which Guru3D considered solid for a cooler of this size. Noise levels stayed under 30 decibels in silent mode, and thermal performance outpaced many 360 mm models. The cooler integrates with NZXT’s CAM software, allowing users to customize the display, RGB lighting, and fan profiles, although it requires staying within the NZXT ecosystem. Guru3D concluded that while the Kraken Elite 420 RGB comes at a premium price, it delivers excellent thermal performance, aesthetic refinement, and an impressive display that make it ideal for high-end, visually-focused PC builds. -
Crucial 128GB DDR5-5600 SODIMM Memory Kit @ Funky Kit
unkyKit’s review frames the Crucial 128 GB (2 x 64 GB) DDR5-5600 SODIMM kit as a uniquely high-density, plug-and-play solution for laptops, mini PCs, and compact workstations that only offer two slots. It is presently the sole retail 128 GB two-module SODIMM kit at this speed, using standard JEDEC 5600 MT/s operation (no manual tuning) with 1.1 V CL46 timings (46-45-45) and broad compatibility with current Intel Core Ultra / 14th Gen mobile platforms and AMD Ryzen 8000 mobile APUs. Priced around 279 to 280 US dollars, it targets power users who need memory footprint more than extreme frequency: content creators handling large RAW photo sets, engineers compiling large code bases, analysts processing in-memory datasets, and homelab or virtualization users consolidating many VMs on a small form factor system. The review emphasizes out-of-the-box stability, Micron (Crucial) build quality, and the absence of competing high-capacity SODIMM kits, highlighting its value proposition in scenarios where upgrading to a larger chassis just to gain more slots would be far costlier.
The Crucial 128GB 5600MT/s 128GB SODIMM memory kit offers the highest capacity and high performance for all who need the best RAM for daily challenges. There is no better option for mobile workstations ... its top-quality features and reasonable price make it a product easy to recommend.
Benchmark observations noted the kit consistently holding rated bandwidth with no drop-off under sustained multitasking or mixed productivity loads, aligning with its positioning for reliability first rather than overclocking headroom (there is effectively none beyond JEDEC). Real-world advantages cited include enabling 128 GB footprints in mini PCs for lab clusters or Proxmox nodes, smoothing large project builds, and reducing paging during high-resolution video editing or large Lightroom catalog work. Review and community feedback point to strong plug-and-play compatibility and a compelling $/GB for this capacity class, while trade-offs include lack of higher frequency XMP / EXPO performance tuning and the simple, non-RGB aesthetic (neutral for professional deployments). Overall, FunkyKit recommends it as the practical top-capacity choice for mobile and small form factor systems where expanding slot count is impossible, making sheer density the decisive performance multiplier. -
G.SKILL Announces Availability of High-Capacity Overclocked Memory Kits, Up To DDR5-6000 256GB (64GBx4)
G.SKILL International Enterprise Co., Ltd., the world's leading brand of performance overclock memory and PC components, is thrilled to announce the retail availability of the its new high-performance 64GB DDR5 modules, with overclock specifications of up to DDR5-6000 CL32 256GB (64GBx4) and DDR5-6400 CL36 128GB (64GBx2) memory kits. Designed for high-performance computing, content creation, AI applications, and professional workstations, these new kit specifications combine ultra-low latency with massive memory capacity based on 64GB modules to deliver powerful multitasking and data-intensive performance on the latest platforms.
Up to DDR5-6000 CL32 with 256GB (64GBx4) Kit Capacity, Featuring AMD EXPO OC Profile
G.SKILL readies a range of high-density kits based on high-performance 64GB DDR5 memory modules, with overclock specifications of up to DDR5-6000 CL32-44-44-96 with 256GB (64GBx4) total kit capacity. Offering a combination of speed, latency, and capacity, these newly released memory kits are ideal for professional creators and users that demand the utmost from their systems. Featuring the AMD EXPO overclocking profile, these specifications are optimized for compatible AMD Ryzen™ DDR5 desktop platforms and will join the G.SKILL Trident Z5 Neo RGB and Flare X5 series.
Extreme Speed DDR5-6400 CL36-44-44-102 128GB (64GBx2), Featuring Intel XMP OC Profile
In addition to the 256GB high-capacity kit specification, G.SKILL also offers a high-speed DDR5-6400 CL36-44-44-102 128GB (64GBx2) memory kit. Aiming to deliver an excellent balance of speed and capacity, and validated for compatibility on Intel DDR5 platforms, this specification is ideal for users seeking high performance for a wide range of professional applications, AI workloads, and content creation tasks.
Specifications List
For a list of kit specifications based on the high-density 64GB capacity module, please refer to the table below. It is very important to note that these kits based on 64GB modules, built with new high-density IC chips, will require a motherboard BIOS update, dated 2025 or newer with 64GB module support.
Availability
These new high-performance 256GB (64GBx4) and 128GB (64GBx2) DDR5 memory kits are currently shipping to G.SKILL's worldwide distribution partners. Select models are already listed at retail, with a broader range of configurations expected to follow. -
Corsair FRAME 5000D RS @ TechPowerUp
TechPowerUp reviewed the Corsair Frame 5000D RS and praised it as a well-executed update to the classic 4000D series. The case features a clean design with a Y-shaped airflow grille, four ventilated panels, and a sturdy steel construction. It comes equipped with two 140 mm ARGB fans and offers broad cooling support with room for up to a 420 mm radiator on the top. The front I/O panel includes four USB-A ports, one USB-C, and a power button, providing ample connectivity. Builders will appreciate the modular fan and radiator mounts, as well as the inclusion of Corsair’s InfiniRail and pegboard mounting system for flexible layouts.
"The Corsair Frame 5000D series may at first seem to just be a bigger variant of the Frame 4000D. But it is also an evolution. The updated design fixes most issues we found with the Frame 4000D, while also iterating on some unique features. This has compelling results, even considering the much higher price tag."Inside, the case offers generous room for large GPUs and power supplies, and includes features like a built-in GPU support bracket, tool-free cable tie mounts, and full-length dust filters. In thermal testing, the case performed well, keeping a Ryzen 5 9600X and RTX 4070 Super at stable temperatures under load. Cable management was straightforward, and the airflow design proved effective without generating excessive noise. Priced around 190 to 200 US dollars, the Frame 5000D RS was recommended for users seeking a balance of style, airflow, and ease of use in a mid-tower format.
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ASUS ROG Maximus Z890 Hero BTF Motherboard Review @ ThinkComputers
ThinkComputers described the Maximus Z890 Hero BTF as an enthusiast-grade ATX board built for the latest Intel CPUs, offering extensive connectivity paired with high-end power delivery. It supports LGA 1851 socket CPUs, runs DDR5 RAM from 4800 to 9200+ MT/s, and includes two PCIe 5.0 x16 slots alongside multiple PCIe 4.0 slots and six M.2 storage slots. Network features include Intel 2.5 GbE, Realtek 5 GbE, and Wi-Fi 7. Dual Thunderbolt 4 ports, USB 20 Gbps Type-C front panel support, and ample USB-A and USB-C ports round out its connectivity options.
"Back-connect motherboards keep getting more and more popular, especially considering pretty much every new PC case has been designed to fit them. These type of motherboard are ideal for people who are looking for the cleanest build possible as all of your connectors are on the back of the board and cable routing is done back there so it does not really show. ASUS of course calls their back-connect motherboards BTF and today we are checking out the ROG Maximus Z890 Hero BTF Motherboard. This board is essentially the same feature-wise as the ROG Maximus Z890 Hero board that we took a look at back in October of last year, but of course we have the connectors on the back and a little bit different styling. You are still going to get a 22+1+2+2 power phase design, six M.2 slots, dual Thunderbolt 4 USB-C ports, WiFi 7, both 5G and 2.5G LAN, and DDR5 support with NitroPath DRAM technology. It is really great to see a high-end BTF motherboard from ASUS so let's take a look!"
Performance testing highlighted its robust 27-phase power design with large heatsinks that helped the board remain cool and stable during overclocking. The inclusion of user-friendly hardware features like Q-Release PCIe slots, Q-Latch M.2 covers, and pre-mounted I/O shield made installations easier. Benchmarks in memory, CPU, and storage workloads aligned with expectations for a top-tier Z890 motherboard. While the price of around $690 may be steep, TechPowerUp and ThinkComputers agreed it stands as the most feature-rich and future-proof Z890 board, ideal for builders seeking a comprehensive, all-in-one high-performance platform.
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NZXT N9 X870E @ TechPowerUp
TechPowerUp described the NZXT N9 X870E as a sleek and modern AM5 motherboard that combines solid performance with refined aesthetics. It features a striking vertical RGB lighting strip integrated into the I/O shroud and supports Ryzen 7000, 8000, and 9000 series CPUs. The board is built with a strong 20+2+1 power phase design and includes dual VRM heatsinks with built-in fans to help maintain low operating temperatures. It offers a PCIe 5.0 x16 slot for graphics cards, multiple M.2 slots with dedicated heatsinks, and a large chipset cooler. NZXT’s CAM software makes it easy to adjust RGB lighting and manage fan settings.
While a little late to the party, NZXT is back! What we have here is a premium X870E motherboard for AMD Ryzen CPUs that offers a unique aesthetic with an interesting approach to fan control. But amongst stiff competition in the price bracket, can it keep up?
In the benchmark testing, the N9 X870E delivered reliable performance across memory, CPU, and storage benchmarks. Thermal management proved effective, with the VRMs and M.2 drives staying within safe ranges even under heavy loads. The layout was praised for its ease of use and clean cable management options. Although this board leans more toward design-conscious builders, TechPowerUp concluded that it still offers strong functionality and performance. It is a great fit for users who want a well-rounded and visually distinctive AM5 platform without compromising on features or stability.
