Tech News
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CRYORIG C5 cu CPU Air Cooler Review @ TechPowerUp
TechPowerUp reviewed the Cryorig C5 Cu as a compact but capable low-profile air cooler designed for small form factor builds. It delivers solid cooling performance for its size, rated for up to 180 watts TDP, and handled both AMD and Intel platforms well in testing. On AMD systems, it managed workloads up to 176 watts, and on Intel, it even pushed beyond its rated specs, reaching over 216 watts in some scenarios. The cooler’s vapor chamber base, full copper construction, and ARGB lighting contribute to both its performance and premium look, while the wide PWM range allows users to balance cooling performance and noise levels effectively.
The CRYORIG C5 Cu features an innovative design with its vapor chamber base, providing dependable performance in a truly compact form factor, even featuring ARGB. For small form factor enthusiasts aiming to maximize every inch of space, it has the potential to be a standout solution.
However, the review pointed out a few caveats. The fan noise becomes noticeable, with a droning tone at higher speeds, and while build quality is solid, the C5 Cu comes at a premium price with only a two-year warranty, which feels short for an air cooler in this range. It also performs best in open or well-ventilated setups, meaning tight enclosures or poor airflow environments can limit its potential. Overall, TechPowerUp concluded that the Cryorig C5 Cu is an excellent choice for small form factor builds needing reliable cooling in a compact footprint, as long as users pair it with hardware that aligns with its realistic thermal capabilities. -
Cooler Master Launches Core II & Core Nex AIO Liquid Coolers
New infinity-mirror pump design, SI-Ready Customization and Simplified Installs
Taipei, Taiwan – Cooler Master, a global leader in innovative thermal solutions and PC hardware, today announced the redesigned MasterLiquid Core II and MasterLiquid Core Nex all-in-one (AIO) liquid coolers. Built on the trusted MasterLiquid platform, both series deliver stronger thermal performance with Cooler Master’s patented dual-chamber pump, broader CPU socket support for flexible builds, and a modern infinity-mirror pump cover.
MasterLiquid Core II and Core Nex share a streamlined installation experience with pre-installed fans, pre-applied thermal paste, pre-mounted brackets, and tidy cabling to reduce setup time for first-time builders and seasoned system integrators. Each series also introduces SI-ready branding options: Core II features a customizable top plate, while Core Nex adds a rotatable top cover so logos stay perfectly aligned regardless of radiator orientation.
“Core II and Core Nex focus on what builders ask for most: reliable cooling, clean installs, and a look that complements any build,” said Matteo Stracciari, General Manager, Cooler Master. “By refining our dual-chamber architecture and giving partners easy ways to personalize the pump cover, we’ve made these coolers a smart choice for mainstream systems and SI deployments.”
Key Features (Both Series)- Patented Dual-Chamber Pump: Proven Cooler Master design for compact, efficient, and reliable cooling performance.
- Infinity-Mirror Pump Cover: Contemporary lighting with a polished, modern aesthetic.
- Personalization Plate: Top plate supports custom logos/graphics; Core Nex adds a rotatable cover for precise orientation.
- Fast, Clean Installation: Pre-installed fans, streamlined cabling, pre-applied thermal paste, and pre-mounted brackets.
- Broad Compatibility & Routing Flexibility: Universal Intel and AMD socket support with 400 mm tubing for easy placement in multiple orientations.
The MasterLiquid Core II offers easy personalization with a customizable pump top plate for logos or graphics. While the MasterLiquid Core Nex adds a rotatable pump cover, so designs stay aligned no matter how the radiator is mounted.
Both series use our patented dual-chamber pump. Two chambers keep warm and cool liquid separate so cooler liquid reaches the CPU hotspot first. The pump directs flow to the center of the cold plate for stronger heat pickup, moving heat away faster than single-chamber designs. By keeping the heated liquid away from the motor, the design also lowers thermal stress and helps extend pump life.
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COUGAR Unveils Stryder Ergonomic Chair, Defensor S Gaming Chair, and Ultimus Pro Wireless Mechanical Keyboard
COUGAR, a global leader in PC cases, gaming furniture, peripherals, tech lifestyle, and esports solutions, proudly unveils the latest lineup: the Stryder, the Defensor S and the Ultimus Pro. This lineup focuses on where gaming, creative and productivity spaces overlap in an increasingly compressed physical world alongside an ever-expanding digital one. The Stryder is COUGAR’s most accessible ergonomic chair, fusing modern lifestyle design with health-prioritized comfort for work, play, and everything in between. The Defensor S gaming chair features the revolutionary PushBack Advanced Lumbar Support System, esports-tested 4D armrests, and is upholstered in premium leather-like fabric. The Ultimus Pro is a next-generation, wireless–enabled mechanical keyboard engineered for gamers, creators, and professionals demanding versatility, durability, and performance.
Stryder - Ergonomic Highback Chair Designed for Hybrid Spaces.
Work, play, and everything in between: the Stryder is COUGAR’s most accessible ergonomic chair for people who do it all, supporting the rhythm of modern life where work and leisure intersect. The Stryder features a large ergonomic seat and an extra-wide adjustable headrest to accommodate a wide range of body types and postures, while a contoured lumbar zone maintains posture and alignment. The multi-density foam seat is engineered for balanced comfort — plush where you want it, firm where you need it. Flip-up armrests add adaptability, clearing instant space for freer movement or closer desk access and noise-reducing casters keep movement quiet
With a silhouette more in line with modern lifestyle furniture, it’s ideal for home offices, shared spaces, or creative setups where productivity and casual gaming coexist.
The Stryder comes in Black, Gray and White, and will be available starting this October at US$129 (Black and Gray) and US$139 (White).
- Learn more at https://cougargaming.com/products/chairs/stryder/
- Download Stryder visual assets
Defensor S – Gaming Chair with Advanced Adjustable Lumbar SupportThe Defensor S is built to protect the back and sustain comfort through extended sessions. At its core is the PushBack Advanced Lumbar Support System, which fine-tunes the pressure on the lower back to maintain natural spinal alignment and relieve strain over time. Its seat has been reworked to be deeper and wider, distributing weight more evenly while offering greater stability across a variety of sitting styles.
Premium comfort continues with high-density molding foam that conforms to the body, paired with a magnetic memory foam neck pillow that adjusts to exact preferences. The 4D folding armrests, initially developed and first tested in esports , can shift or fold away entirely for maximum freedom of movement, while optional velvet sleeves add softness. Upholstered in breathable leather-like fabric that resists wear yet feels supple to the touch, the Defensor S balances durability with a premium, organic feel. A steel base with oversized wheels provides lasting strength, complemented by a convenient back pocket for storage.
The Defensor S comes in Army Green, Navy Blue, and Jet Gray, and will be available starting this October at US$329.
- Learn more at https://cougargaming.com/products/chairs/defensor-s/
- Download Defensor S visual assets
Ultimus Pro – A Multi-Device Mechanical Keyboard Built for Gaming, Creation, and Everyday ControlThe Ultimus Pro is built for seamless multitasking across every platform in any one given setup. With multi-device connectivity, it can link up to five devices simultaneously via wired, 2.4GHz wireless, or Bluetooth, allowing instant transitions with dedicated quick-switch keys. Its 98% layout condenses the full functionality of a standard keyboard into a more compact footprint, maximizing desk space without sacrificing usability.
Inside, hot-swappable pre-lubed mechanical switches deliver smooth travel and rapid actuation, paired with durable PBT doubleshot keycaps that resist shine while retaining a textured feel. Multiple layers of sound-dampening foam refine the typing experience with a quieter touch, while two-stage adjustable feet ensure personalized ergonomics. With up to 380 hours of battery life, integrated cable management, and full customization through COUGAR UIX software, the Ultimus Pro sets a new standard for peak functionality across all the terminals of a digital life. -
be quiet! launches Pure Loop 3 LX and Pure Loop 3: Supreme cooling with style and silence
High-performance AiO water coolers with powerful thermal management, individualization, and virtually inaudible operation
be quiet!, the German manufacturer for premium PC components, be quiet!, the German manufacturer of premium PC components, proudly introduces Pure Loop 3 LX and Pure Loop 3. These additions to the all-in-one water cooling segment embody performance and precision, unified by sleek design and near-silent operation. Optimized for gaming, overclocking, and creative workloads, these models exemplify be quiet!’s dedication to technical excellence and end-user functionality.
“With Pure Loop 3 LX and Pure Loop 3, we offer two distinct interpretations of silent cooling,” said be quiet! CEO Aaron Licht. “Whether users prioritize aesthetics or prefer understated performance, all models deliver premium features rooted in our design philosophy: maximum performance, incredibly quiet operation, and uncompromising build quality.”
Pure Loop 3 LX: Customize your style, unleash the power
Pure Loop 3 LX is purpose-built for ARGB enthusiasts and high-performance systems. Its illuminated cooling block offers pre-installed ARGB with 10 interchangeable lighting foils, enabling users to define their system’s look with precision and ease. The foils allow unique and breathtaking lighting visuals without requiring software.
Cooling is handled by two or three Light Wings LX 120mm PWM high-speed fans, each equipped with 16 LEDs and nine airflow-optimized blades. These fans maintain quiet operation through closed loop motor control, keeping fan speed consistent regardless of airflow resistance. A specially designed funnel-shaped air outlet enhances static pressure and cooling efficiency, and a daisy chain function simplifies cabling by allowing the fans to connect in series, reducing clutter inside the case. The powerful 6-pole, 3-phase PWM pump ensures whisper-quiet and vibration-minimized operation at both high and low loads.
Installation and maintenance are effortless thanks to flexible tubing and an easy-to-access refill port, while the cooler’s bold design language delivers both functionality and visual appeal. Pure Loop 3 LX is the ideal solution for showcases with emphasis on lighting, advanced gaming rigs, and demanding multitasking systems. Pure Loop 3 LX is available in two formats: 360mm and 240mm.
Pure Loop 3: Pure performance, pure silence
For those who value efficiency and discretion, Pure Loop 3 offers impressively high cooling performance in an understated package. Tailored for systems where visual minimalism is key, this cooler excludes lighting entirely, focusing instead on robust performance even under sustained high CPU workloads.
Available in three models (360mm, 280mm, and 240mm), Pure Loop 3 is outfitted with Pure Wings 3 PWM high-speed fans that support a closed loop motor function and daisy chaining for a cleaner installation. Despite their strong aerodynamics and static pressure, Pure Wings 3 fans maintain maximum noise levels of only 36.8 dB(A), ensuring systems stay quiet even under stress.
Pure Loop 3 also includes flexible tubing, a refill port for long-term operation, and an elegant cooling block design that emphasizes precision engineering. It is perfectly suited for overclocked systems, advanced gaming PCs, and high-resolution multimedia builds.
Pricing and availability
Pure Loop 3 LX and Pure Loop 3 models will be available from September 9 at the following suggested retail prices; all coolers are backed by a 3-year manufacturer’s warranty.
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Melgeek MADE68 Air Gaming Keyboard Review @ ThinkComputers
ThinkComputers highlighted the MelGeek MADE68 Air as an innovative low-profile keyboard that integrates magnetic switch technology, offering far more customization than standard mechanical boards. With adjustable actuation points, Rapid Trigger responsiveness, and Dynamic Keystroke functionality, the keyboard enables multi-layered inputs and highly precise keypress customization. Its SOCD technology is particularly noteworthy for competitive gamers, allowing seamless directional changes in FPS titles without input conflicts, which is valuable for advanced techniques like counter-strafing. Together, these features make the MADE68 Air an impressive platform for competitive and fast-paced gaming.
One of my favorite keyboards that I've used over the past year or so has been the MelGeek MADE68 Pro. It was one of the first magnetic switch rapid trigger keyboards that I used and I absolutely loved the style of the keyboard too! Well Melgeek is back with the MADE68 Air, which is a low-profile version of the keyboard. While the design and colorway is very much the same we now have low-profile magnetic switches as well as low-profile keycaps. If you are a fan of low-profile keyboards this could be the perfect keyboard for you! Read on as we take a look!
However, the review found the typing experience less enjoyable for everyday use. The low-profile keycaps were not as comfortable for prolonged typing sessions, and the board felt somewhat hollow, lacking the satisfying feel and sound profile of other high-end keyboards. While performance and responsiveness were excellent during gaming, the overall typing experience did not match the expectations set by its advanced technology. Ultimately, the MADE68 Air is a strong choice for gamers seeking cutting-edge performance, but less ideal for those prioritizing typing comfort or acoustic refinement. -
ASRock X870 LiveMixer WiFi motherboard Review @ Funky Kit
FunkyKit praises the ASRock X870 LiveMixer WiFi for aggressively targeting content creators and streamers with its exceptional connectivity and thoughtful design. Featuring the AMD X870 chipset, it supports Ryzen 7000, 8000, and 9000 series processors and offers robust power delivery with a 16+2+1 phase design. It supports memory overclocking up to DDR5-8000+, includes dual USB4 Type-C ports, 25 USB ports in total, 5 Gb Ethernet, Wi-Fi 7, and SignalRGB lighting software. Storage options include a PCIe 5.0 Gen5 M.2 slot and two Gen4 M.2 slots with convenient toolless heatsinks. The board balances performance, flexibility, and stability at a price of around $190.
... If you're after a X870 motherboard for streaming and content creation, then look no further, the ASRock X870 LiveMixer WiFi has it all. It offers good performance, and comes packed with a load of features, and a phenomenal amount of USB connectivity.
In performance tests, the LiveMixer WiFi held its own with reliable thermal handling thanks to its large heatsinks and sturdy eight-layer PCB. While feature-packed, the board must contend with competition offering extras like more M.2 ports or internal USB 3.2 Gen2x2 headers. However, its combination of creative-centric features—like extensive USB support and robust networking that sets it apart in its class, delivering excellent value for content creators working on AM5 platforms. -
Best Budget 4K Projectors with Wi-Fi and Auto Focus on Amazon
The home projector market has undergone a remarkable shift in recent years. What was once considered a luxury for high-end home theaters is now accessible to everyday households. Advances in imaging technology, wireless connectivity, and efficient manufacturing have made it possible for well-designed projectors under $350 to deliver performance that rivals what mid-tier models offered only a few years ago.
One of the biggest improvements in this price range is the availability of up to 1200 ANSI lumens of brightness, providing a bright, clear image in dim or moderately lit spaces. Pair that with Auto Focus, and setup becomes quick and effortless, eliminating the need for manual adjustments. Built-in Wi-Fi streaming and Bluetooth pairing add even more versatility, letting you stream your favorite shows, mirror your phone or laptop screen, or connect wireless speakers for a better audio experience.
The 4K-ready projectors in this list also show just how far value engineering has come. While most use native 1080p panels, they handle 4K input seamlessly, producing crisp and vibrant images for movies, games, and live sports. Whether you want to upgrade your living room, enjoy immersive gaming on a big screen, or host outdoor movie nights, these compact, budget-friendly projectors bring the big-screen experience to more people than ever.Our Top 5 Picks
1) Lisowod L61 Pro (Proyector 4K Smart, 1200 ANSI)
Results Provided by AmazonKey Specs:
- Auto Focus and AI-based image calibration
- 1200 ANSI brightness, native 1080p with 4K decoding
- Wi-Fi 6, Bluetooth 5.2 (bidirectional)
- HDR10+, Dolby-ready 30W audio
- Built-in app store with Netflix, Prime Video, YouTube support
Why Pick This:
The Lisowod L61 Pro delivers a rare balance of brightness, clarity, and smart convenience in the sub-$350 range. Its AI-driven Auto Focus ensures sharp images instantly, while integrated streaming apps mean you don’t need an external device to enjoy your favorite shows and movies. Combined with Dolby-ready sound and HDR10+ support, this model is ideal for anyone seeking a plug-and-play entertainment system that works equally well indoors and outdoors.2) ONOAYO ONO3 Pro, 1200 ANSI, Auto Focus
Results Provided by AmazonKey Specs:
- 1200 ANSI brightness, native 1080p, 4K decoding
- Wi-Fi 6 and Bluetooth 5.2 (bidirectional)
- AI Auto Focus & Auto Keystone Correction
- Smart TV OS with Netflix, Prime, YouTube, Dolby-certified stereo
Why Pick This:
The ONOAYO ONO3 Pro is perfect for users who value simplicity and streaming power in one device. Its fast Wi-Fi 6 connection and dual Bluetooth make streaming and audio pairing effortless. With Dolby-certified stereo speakers and accurate Auto Focus, this projector ensures you can dive into your favorite content without worrying about setup or external sound systems. It’s an excellent choice for a small living room or bedroom setup where convenience is key.3) Sovboi Smart Outdoor Projector, 1200 ANSI
Results Provided by AmazonKey Specs:
- 1200 ANSI brightness, native 1080p with 4K support
- Electric Focus + Auto Vertical Keystone
- Wi-Fi and Bluetooth connectivity
- 15W dual speakers, portable rotating stand
Why Pick This:
If you want a projector that can adapt to both indoor and outdoor use, the Sovboi Smart Outdoor Projector is your best bet. Its strong 1200 ANSI brightness ensures a vibrant, detailed image even during evening backyard movie sessions. The rotating stand makes positioning flexible, and its dual speakers produce surprisingly full audio for casual use. When paired with a Bluetooth speaker or soundbar, it transforms into a budget-friendly setup for immersive movie nights.4) HAPPRUN Z5, 1500 ANSI Brightness, Auto Focus
Results Provided by AmazonKey Specs:
- 1500 ANSI brightness (slightly above your target range)
- Auto Focus with 6D Auto Keystone and obstacle avoidance
- Wi-Fi and Bluetooth 5.2 (bidirectional)
- Compact, portable design
Why Pick This:
The HAPPRUN Z5 pushes brightness slightly beyond 1200 ANSI, making it a powerhouse in this lineup. Its precise Auto Focus and advanced keystone correction let you achieve perfect alignment in seconds, and the high brightness ensures that even rooms with moderate ambient light still produce clear, sharp visuals. Whether you’re gaming on a big screen or watching sports with friends, this projector combines portability and performance without breaking the bank.5) ELEPHAS 4K Smart Projector, 1000 ANSI
Results Provided by AmazonKey Specs:
- 1000 ANSI brightness, native 1080p with 4K input support
- Wi-Fi dual-band, Bluetooth 5.2
- Built-in app store for Netflix, Prime Video, YouTube
- Auto Focus and dual Dolby-ready speakers
Why Pick This:
For those seeking an affordable and user-friendly option, the ELEPHAS Smart Projector remains a top performer. While its 1000 ANSI brightness is slightly below the others, it excels in convenience with integrated apps, dependable Auto Focus, and well-tuned built-in speakers. This model is a strong match for cozy indoor settings where brightness demands are less critical but convenience and quality still matter.Final Thoughts
The sub-$350 projector segment has matured rapidly, offering features that rival mid-tier models from just a few years ago. With advancements like Auto Focus, wireless streaming, and higher ANSI brightness levels, creating a home theater experience has never been more accessible.
Each of these five projectors brings something unique to the table. The Lisowod L61 Pro excels in delivering balanced performance for everyday use. The ONOAYO ONO3 Pro is perfect for seamless streaming and smooth wireless integration. The Sovboi Smart Outdoor Projector stands out for outdoor versatility, while the HAPPRUN Z5 shines with its superior brightness and refined auto-alignment. Finally, the ELEPHAS 4K Smart Projector provides dependable performance at a very attractive price for users in smaller spaces or darker rooms.
Whether you are hosting movie nights, gaming on the big screen, or upgrading your family room entertainment system, these budget-friendly projectors are proof that you don’t have to spend a fortune to enjoy sharp visuals, smooth connectivity, and a truly cinematic experience. If paired with a decent sound system and a good projection surface, they will deliver immersive and reliable performance that fits a wide range of entertainment needs. -
ASRock Steel Legend SL-1200GW power supply Review @ Funky Kit
FunkyKit highlighted the Steel Legend SL-1200GW as a standout offering in the value-oriented high-power PSU category. This ATX 3.1 and PCIe 5.1 ready unit delivers 1200 watts via a powerful +12 V single rail rated at 100A, and comes fully modular with reliable Japanese capacitors throughout. It includes dual 12V-2×6 (12VHPWR) cables, an intelligent iCool fan mode for silent operation at low loads, and a 135 mm striped axial FDB fan. With 80 Plus Gold, Cybenetics Platinum and LAMBDA A+ certifications, plus a 10-year warranty, it delivers excellent efficiency, build quality, and long-term confidence for about $199.
... ASRock have now added an all- white 1200W sub-$200 modular power supply to its Steel Legend series. It not only offers excellent stability thanks to its powerful +12V single rail at 100A, but also comes with 80 PLUS GOLD certification, along with Cybenetics PLATINUM and LAMBDA A+ ratings. What's more, it supports the latest ATX3.1 and PCIe 5.1 standards, plus you'll also get an impressive 10-Year warranty for peace of mind.
In real-world testing, the SL-1200GW impressed with strong stability and efficiency under load, while maintaining low noise levels thanks to its dynamic cooling system. The inclusion of two high-wattage native GPU connectors and full modular cabling made it highly future-ready, particularly for next-gen graphics cards. FunkyKit scored it an average of 9.2 out of 10, noting that there were virtually no drawbacks to this well-rounded and affordable high-capacity power supply that making it a compelling choice for builders seeking serious wattage without compromising on features or noise control. -
NZXT N9 X870E AMD motherboard Review @ Guru3D
Guru3D highlighted the NZXT N9 X870E as a premium AM5 board that brings together high-end hardware and refined aesthetics for around $499. It packs a strong 20+2+1 phase power delivery setup, dual VRM fans, and active cooling for all M.2 slots, keeping thermals well-managed under load. The board includes modern connectivity like USB4, Wi-Fi 7, and 5 Gigabit Ethernet, and offers full PCIe 5.0 support for both GPU and primary SSD. Visually, it aims for understated elegance, featuring a single LED strip and full-metal coverage rather than flashy lighting.
When NZXT steps into the AMD AM5 motherboard space, they don’t just go for a rebrand—they build something with their own signature. Partnering with ASRock, they’ve created the N9 X870E, a board that blends proven engineering with NZXT’s distinct design language. It’s not just a clone of ASRock’s own Phantom Gaming line either. NZXT tweaked the PCB layout, adjusted connector placements, and fine-tuned the trace routing to match their style and internal ecosystem. The result? A clean, modern-looking board available in black or white, with a solid metal cover and a subtle RGB strip across the I/O shroud that gives it some visual character.
In benchmarks, the performance closely matched other X870E boards, with only minor gains over previous-generation options, suggesting that choosing this model is more about design and ecosystem alignment. The board ties in tightly with NZXT’s CAM software for streamlined lighting and fan control. Some practical trade-offs emerged: the BIOS is basic, VRM fans can be noisy unless manually adjusted, and maintaining access to rear components like lower M.2 slots requires more effort due to a large heatsink. For builders who prioritize clean aesthetics, solid feature integration, and cohesive software management, this board offers excellent value, provided its minor usability quirks are acceptable. -
ASUS TUF Gaming B850M-Plus Wi-Fi @ TechPowerUp
TechPowerUp reviewed the ASUS TUF Gaming B850M-Plus Wi-Fi and found it to be a solid microATX option in the AM5 platform space, priced around $200. It delivers a well-balanced feature set with reliable VRM cooling, a robust EFI interface, solid onboard audio, and an exceptional number of USB-A ports that even some higher-priced competitors lack. The compact microATX form factor offers flexibility, particularly for users building systems with a single GPU, a primary SSD, and a reasonably sized case, making it a practical alternative to pricier Mini-ITX boards or bulkier ATX layouts.
If you're looking for a $200 microATX motherboard with modern features and the ability to handle AMD's latest flagship CPUs, this TUF model could be the board for you. But does it do enough to beat the competition and will it leave you wanting in a few years?
The review acknowledged that competition around this price point is strong, with boards from Gigabyte, MSI, and ASRock often offering extras such as Wi-Fi 7 support, additional PCIe Gen5 M.2 slots, or more advanced cooling solutions. While the TUF Gaming B850M-Plus Wi-Fi misses out on Wi-Fi 7 and could use better Gen5 SSD cooling and more tool-free features, it still represents excellent value for mainstream users. With its sturdy build, clean design, and well-rounded performance, it stands out as a dependable choice for those seeking a versatile and cost-effective AM5 microATX motherboard.
