Gaming | Popular Science https://www.popsci.com/category/gaming/ Awe-inspiring science reporting, technology news, and DIY projects. Skunks to space robots, primates to climates. That's Popular Science, 145 years strong. Tue, 30 May 2023 18:00:57 +0000 en-US hourly 1 https://wordpress.org/?v=6.1.1 https://www.popsci.com/uploads/2021/04/28/cropped-PSC3.png?auto=webp&width=32&height=32 Gaming | Popular Science https://www.popsci.com/category/gaming/ 32 32 The best curved monitors in 2023 https://www.popsci.com/gear/best-curved-monitors/ Fri, 24 Jun 2022 13:00:00 +0000 https://www.popsci.com/?p=450439
The best curved monitors composited
Stan Horaczek

A curved screen can improve your PC setup’s ergonomics and enhance gaming immersion.

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Best overall The Samsung Odyssey G7 is an incredible valuable display with a bright QLED panel, deep 1000R curve, and elite gaming speed.
Samsung Odyssey G7
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The Samsung Odyssey G7 is an incredible valuable display with a bright QLED panel, deep 1000R curve, and elite gaming speed.

Best for gaming The Alienware AW3423DW brings the sharper contrast of an OLED display to PC gaming. Dell Alienware AW3423DW
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The Alienware AW3423DW brings the sharper contrast of an OLED display to PC gaming.

Best for work The Dell UltraSharp U3421WE gives you an ultrawide workspace to make you more productive. Dell UltraSharp U3421WE
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The Dell UltraSharp U3421WE gives you an ultrawide workspace to make you more productive.

Whether you’re gaming or taking on a big project at work, upgrading to a curved monitor can elevate your computing experience. While using one feels a bit different, and may not be for everyone, an increasing number of people swear by them. The graceful arc of a curved display draws you further into the experience, increasing your immersion and blocking out distractions. The best curved monitors feature all the impressive specs and features of any other display while bringing a few unique tricks all their own.

How we chose the best curved monitors

I’ve worked in gaming and tech journalism since 2013. During that time, I’ve evaluated a wide range of monitors, from affordable flat panels to luxurious curved ultrawides. Covering displays and computers for sites like IGN, Reviewed, and Tom’s Hardware, I’ve built a deep understanding of what makes a monitor great.

Our selections for the best curved monitors are the product of extensive testing and research. Beyond testing and reviewing many of these monitors, I took a deep look at the most important specs: screen size, resolution, refresh rate, response time, and the core features that separate a great display from a basic one. I also turned to reviews from experts and impressions from real customers to see how they stacked up in dedicated performance tests and real-world scenarios.

The best curved monitors: Reviews & Recommendations

Now that you have a good handle on the monitor-buying basics, let’s talk about the best curved monitors you can buy. Even with all the knowledge we’ve shared, finding the best curved monitor may still feel like a daunting task. Our picks, selected through testing and extensive research, are a great place to start (and end) your search.

Best overall: Samsung Odyssey G7

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Why it made the cut: The Samsung Odyssey G7 delivers a great picture and outstanding value.

Specs

  • Screen size: 27-inch
  • Curve: 1000R
  • Resolution: 2560×1440 
  • Panel type: QLED
  • Brightness/HDR: VESA DisplayHDR 600
  • Refresh rate: 240Hz
  • Response time: 1ms

Pros

  • Deep, immersive curve
  • Crisp 1440p resolution
  • An esports-grade 240Hz refresh rate
  • QLED panel ensures high brightness and contrast

Cons

  • 1000R curve may be too deep for some people
  • Expensive

The Samsung Odyssey G7 is a performance powerhouse that provides surprisingly incredible value. It isn’t cheap, but you’d be hard-pressed to find another curved monitor that brings so much value to the table. Its vivid, Quantum Dot-enhanced picture enables exceptional brightness and contrast, winning it a DisplayHDR 600 rating. Colors pop on this display, and you can make out more detail in the screen’s dark and bright areas.

The G7 is definitely a gaming-first display. Its deep 1000R curve covers more peripheral vision, enhancing your immersion. Pushing 1440p resolution at up to 240Hz, you’ll get a perfect pairing of crisp visuals and high frame rates. Motion blur will be less of an issue on the Odyssey, giving you the edge to one-up the competition.

There are bigger, brighter monitors on the market, including several from Samsung: the 32-inch Odyssey G7 Neo, which offers an incredible 2000 nits of peak brightness, the 4K-enabled 16:9 Samsung Odyssey G8, and, if you have a gaming desk with space for an ultrawide display, the Samsung Odyssey OLED G8. You can really level up that battlestation with this 34-inch 21:9 Ultra-WQHD screen supporting 0.03ms response times, 175Hz, FreeSync VRR support with G-SYNC compatibility, and DisplayHDR True Black 400 levels. The Neo G8 has more resolution (good for streaming content) and a higher refresh rate/lower lag for competitive gaming. In a dark environment, however, the OLED G8 offers amazing contrast with impossibly inky blacks and smoother motion handling, making it both perfect for productivity and very console-friendly.

Those are notable upgrades, but they come with much steeper price tags ($1,000 on average). For many players, the $500 Odyssey G7 is more than enough to allow systems to hit peak performance without overspending.

Best for gaming: Dell Alienware AW3423DW

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Why it made the cut: The Alienware AW3423DW’s fast, color-rich OLED screen makes games look better than ever; it’s expensive but very impressive.

Specs

  • Screen size: 34.18-inch (Ultrawide)
  • Curve: 1800R
  • Resolution: 3440×1440 (21:9)
  • Panel type: QD-OLED
  • Brightness/HDR: 1000-nit peak brightness (DisplayHDR 400 True Black)
  • Refresh rate: 175Hz
  • Response time: 0.1ms

Pros

  • QD-OLED panel enables incredible contrast and sharpness
  • 1000-nits peak brightness
  • Quantum dots for rich, accurate colors
  • G-Sync Ultimate

Cons

  • Very expensive
  • Doesn’t work well with PS5
  • No HDMI 2.1 ports

The Alienware AW3423DW is a rare curved display indeed. It features a Quantum Dot-enhanced OLED panel. Organic Light-Emitting Diode (OLED) displays feature “self-emitting” backlighting, where each pixel is individually backlit and independently controlled. This allows for incredible contrast, including “true” blacks. Standard OLED screens are known for lacking the brightness of conventional displays, but Quantum Dot technology enhances the screen’s inherent brightness, allowing the AW3423DW to hit an HDR-bright 1000 nits. It only achieves that maximum brightness in small spots on the monitor but is still more than capable of generating quality HDR gameplay.

You won’t have to worry about artifacts dragging down your gaming experience with the AW3423DW. With a ridiculously fast 0.1ms response time, ghosting just isn’t an issue for this display. A 175Hz refresh rate and Nvidia’s G-Sync Ultimate certification ensure excellent picture quality without screen tearing.

It isn’t perfect, though. The AW3423DW has a small number of flaws, particularly for console players who’d pair it with a PlayStation 5. It lacks HDMI 2.1, for example, so it can’t play games in 4K at 120Hz over HDMI cable. It also can’t downscale 4K content, so the PS5 can only run in 1080p on the monitor. (Luckily, there are monitors particularly well-suited to PS5.)

The Alienware AW3423DW is one of a few OLED gaming monitors in 2023. As a result, the distinctive, high-performance panel comes with a very steep price tag. If you’re a PC player who wants to see the sharpest possible picture on a monitor, though, it is worth it.

Best for work: Dell UltraSharp U3421WE

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Why it made the cut: The Dell Ultrasharp U3421WE can replace multiple monitors and comes with productivity-enhancing features

Specs

  • Screen size: 34.1-inch (Ultrawide)
  • Curve: 1900R
  • Resolution: 3440×1440 (21:9)
  • Panel type: IPS
  • Brightness/HDR: 300 nits
  • Refresh rate: 60Hz
  • Response time: 8ms

Pros

  • Connects via USB-C
  • Built-in KVM lets you switch between two PCs with one mouse and keyboard
  • Useful software quickly divides screen space
  • Remembers window positions between uses

Cons

  • Expensive
  • Low brightness

Looking to replace your multi-monitor setup for work with a single ultrawide monitor? The 34-inch Dell Ultrasharp U3421WE is as tall as a standard 27-inch monitor and provides roughly eight inches of extra width on either side, so you have plenty of space to work. It also features some productivity-enhancing software that can partition that space into 38 different configurations for up to five windows. You’ll be able to see everything you need to work quickly and efficiently. When you’re done for the day, the software can re-open those windows, allowing you to pick up right where you left off. 

It isn’t uncommon for monitors to feature a couple extra USB ports for your peripherals, but the U3421WE not only connects via USB-C but it also doubles as a bona fide USB-C hub. It features two USB-C ports, one of which empowers you to connect and charge a laptop. There are also a whopping five USB 3.0 ports (one upstream and four downstream), to connect all of your peripherals and transfer large files. There’s even an Ethernet port to connect to your office’s network. 

It may not be quite as wide as two 27-inch monitors, but the Dell Ultrasharp U3421WE makes a strong case for optimizing your home office with a curved ultrawide display.

Best 4K: Gigabyte M32UC

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Why it made the cut: The Gigabyte M32UC is a big screen with a crisp 4K picture and features to spare.

Specs

  • Screen size: 31.5-inch 
  • Curve: 1500R
  • Resolution: 3840×2160 (4K)
  • Panel type: SuperSpeed VA
  • Brightness/HDR: DisplayHDR 400
  • Refresh rate: 160Hz
  • Response time: 1ms 

Pros

  • Crisp 4K visuals in a large viewing area
  • Fast refresh rate
  • Great color coverage
  • Built-in KVM

Cons

  • Limited HDR performance
  • Minor ghosting without overdrive

Curved 4K monitors usually get expensive quickly, and the Gigabyte M32UC balances performance, features, and price better than most displays out there. It isn’t cheap by any stretch, but you get a color-rich gaming display with a ton of great features in return. You may have to adjust a couple of settings to make the most of it, but once you do, you’ll see that it’s a hidden gem among ultrawide gaming monitors.

SuperSpeed VA panel. Unlike traditional VA panels, the M32UC’s SuperSpeed VA panel gives it an unexpectedly low 1ms response time. It’s also fast, with a 160Hz refresh rate, which is high for a 4K display. With 93% DCI-P3 wide color gamut and 123% sRGB, it offers incredible color depth and accuracy, which is great for creatives. If you’d like to connect to a second PC for streaming or home office use, it also features a built-in KVM to swap your peripherals between devices quickly. The monitor also features a full suite of competitive gaming features, like a “Black Equalizer” that helps you peek into shadows, and an FPS monitor that can overlay on any game.

There are some important trade-offs with the M32UC that you should know before you buy in. First, with 8-bit color and only 400 nits of brightness, it can’t really handle HDR gameplay. Some users have also reported minor ghosting with Overdrive disabled, but that’s a quick fix within its settings menu. Even with these shortcomings, the M32UC is an outstanding choice if you’re shopping for a 4K monitor with an immersive curve.

Best ultrawide: LG UltraGear 34GP950G-B

Buy it used or refurbished: eBay

Why it made the cut: The LG UltraGear 34GP950G-B doesn’t come cheap, but its spacious Nano IPS screen is a joy to behold.

Specs

  • Screen size: 34-inch (Ultrawide)
  • Curve: 1900R
  • Resolution: 3440×1440 (21:9)
  • Panel type: Nano IPS
  • Brightness/HDR: DisplayHDR 600
  • Refresh rate: 180Hz 
  • Response time: 1ms

Pros

  • 10-bit color and DisplayHDR 600 certification
  • Rapid refresh rate adds smoothness to games
  • G-Sync Ultimate certified (FreeSync also supported)

Cons

  • Very expensive
  • Low IPS contrast

Gamers who have taken the leap already know: A great ultrawide monitor can take your gaming experience to the next level. That’s certainly the case with the expansive LG UltraGear 34GP950G-B, which delivers a crisp 3440×1440 picture empowered by LG’s Nano IPS panel. A proprietary LG display technology, Nano IPS displays feature a coating of nanoparticles on the backlight that expand their color gamut to an incredibly vibrant 98% of the DCI-P3 color space, or roughly 135% of sRGB. 

Somehow, professional-grade color accuracy and gaming-grade speed go hand-in-hand. LG quotes a 1ms response time on its “faster” preset, dramatically reducing the chance for visible ghosting. Meanwhile, its perfectly respectable 144Hz refresh rate can be overclocked to hit an impressive 180Hz for competitive play. It’s also Nvidia G-Sync Ultimate certified so you can count on fluid gameplay without a hint of screen tearing.

The UltraGear 34GP950G-B is certified by VESA for DisplayHDR 600 high dynamic range. It has a higher peak brightness of 600 nits and true 10-bit color so that you can make out more detail in the shadows and highlights. Its HDR tech comes with a local dimming feature, but critics found it to be too distracting to actually use. Since it also uses an IPS panel, contrast levels are also low, which makes blacks look dark gray in dark rooms. Even with local dimming turned off, there’s little room to argue with how good this monitor truly is.

Best budget: AOC G2 Series C27G2Z

AOC

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Buy it used or refurbished: eBay

Why it made the cut: The AOC G2 Series C27G2Z offers a lot for little. It costs less than $250 but still delivers strong performance.

Specs

  • Screen size: 27-inch
  • Curve: 1500R
  • Resolution: 1920×1080
  • Panel type: VA
  • Brightness/HDR: 250 nits 
  • Refresh rate: 240Hz
  • Response time: 0.5ms

Pros

  • Large screen
  • 240Hz refresh rate 
  • Good VA contrast
  • Good color coverage

Cons

  • Low brightness
  • No HDR
  • Low pixel density

If you’re on a limited budget, the AOC G2 Series C27G2Z is easily one of best curved monitors for under $300. It offers a handful of key features that make it an incredible value at a price point where you rarely find any. Its 27-inch screen is large enough to make good use of its 1500R curve, taking up more of your field of view and drawing you further into your entertainment experiences.

Now, a 27-inch, 1080p screen stretches its pixels a bit thin, but not dramatically. If you’d prefer to go smaller to maintain the screen’s sharpness, the 24-inch, 165Hz AOC C24G1A is our favorite curved gaming monitor under $200.

The C27G2Z is also quite a capable gaming monitor. It features a rapid 240Hz refresh rate—fast enough for competitive esports. Response time is also excellent at 0.5ms in its fastest mode, but you should plan on turning this down a touch for the best image quality—but with 0.5ms to start, there’s responsiveness to spare. Color coverage is also impressive at 90% of the DCI-P3 color space so that hues will look deeper and more saturated.

Unfortunately, the C27G2Z scrapes the bottom of the barrel with peak brightness and has a luminance of only 250 nits. That’s fine for most games, but you’ll want to position it away from direct sunlight. HDR is also out of the question, but these are fair trade-offs considering its price.

Things to consider before buying a curved monitor

Once a niche offshoot of conventional PC displays, the curved monitor has become an increasingly popular gaming and office work option. Going for a curved monitor adds a couple of extra specs to the long list of considerations you want to keep in mind when buying any monitor. We’ll walk you through the basics, so you can make your own decision when you’re ready to buy your next monitor.

Setting the curve

The big difference between picking a curved display and a standard flat panel is the curve itself. Just like the size of the monitor, the depth of the display’s arc varies from model to model.

The arc of a curved display is measured using the distance from the outer edge of the screen to its center. That number, measured in millimeters, is expressed as the monitor’s Radius (R) and indicates the recommended viewing distance to fully experience that curve’s benefits. The lower the radius, the deeper the curve will be. The deeper the curve, the more immersive your viewing experience will feel.

As with other specs, there is a range of possible curvatures ranging from 3000R to 1800R, all the way down to 1000R. Most curved monitors tend to fall between 1800R and 1500R, as large shallow curves typically require larger screen sizes than is typical for computer monitors. These curvatures range from a gentle bend to minimize how often you twist your neck to a noticeable curve that can enhance the immersive qualities of first-person games. Some gaming monitors drop down to 1000R. As this excellent explainer from Viewsonic describes, 1000R is the same curve as the human eye and should theoretically feel most “correct,” though such a deep curve can also be the hardest to adapt to.

Curved monitors are an acquired taste. It’s hard to know whether you’ll like a curved monitor, or what curve arc you’ll prefer without seeing them in person. Pictures just can’t replace the experience of sitting before one and seeing what each curve feels like for yourself. We recommend stopping by the electronics section of your retailer to see for yourself. If that’s not possible, be sure to buy from a retailer with a friendly return and exchange process.

Resolution

Beyond the curve’s arc, there’s no major difference between picking a curved monitor and any other. There are three core specs that we look at first when picking any PC display: resolution, screen size, and refresh rate.

Resolution refers to how many pixels your display uses to generate an image. All other things being equal, a higher resolution enables a sharper, more detailed image. Manufacturers currently stick to three primary resolutions for all widescreen (16:9) monitors: The baseline is 1920 x 1080 pixels, more commonly known as 1080p. The middle option, which we frequently recommend for gaming, is 2560 x 1440 pixels (you may see manufacturers call this 1440p, or QHD). Lastly, you have 3840 x 2160 pixels, also known as 4K. Unlike TVs, where 4K has become the standard, 4K monitors are still luxury and usually expensive.

If you plan on using your monitor for gaming, remember that higher resolutions require more powerful hardware to run well. If you’re a gamer but aren’t sure what resolution will work best for you, download and run a selection of the best benchmarks to grasp your system’s performance better.

Screen size

Curved displays aim to take up more of your peripheral vision so, unlike conventional widescreen monitors, we recommend going with the largest display that feels comfortable for you.

That recommendation comes with a caveat: There is a correlation between screen size and resolution. Larger displays need more pixels to achieve the same level of sharpness as their smaller counterparts. So, while a larger screen will enhance the benefits of using a curved display,  we only recommend you do so if you can also afford to scale up to 1440p or 4K for a screen above 27 inches.

With curved displays in particular, it also makes sense to consider whether you’d be interested in the standard, 16:9 widescreen aspect ratio, or a 21:9 ultrawide monitor. Ultrawide monitors extend the horizontal viewing area without making the display taller than a traditional display, which pushes the edges of the screen closer to your peripheral vision. Since curved displays work best when they extend to the outer edges of your field of view, the ultrawide form factor enhances the benefits of a curved panel. Pairing the two unconventional form factors often leads to a more expensive display, but a large curved ultrawide creates enough screen space to replace two monitors in most setups. It’s expensive, but a unique pleasure.

Refresh rate

For gaming, refresh rate often feels just as important as screen size and resolution. Refresh rate, measured in hertz (Hz), refers to how many times the screen updates the image on screen each second. Productivity monitors usually stick to basic 60Hz-75Hz, since smooth animation isn’t considered a priority. For gaming, however, a higher refresh rate allows games to run at a higher frame rate, making them look smoother and reducing motion blur. 

In general, we look for gaming monitors with a 144Hz refresh rate or higher. For office work, a little bump to refresh rate is a nice luxury, but not a crucial feature.

Panel type

The physical screen panel can impact a monitor’s color accuracy, contrast, and responsiveness. Aside from a few exceptions—some of which you’ll see on this list—monitors rely on one of three panel types:

In-Plane Switching, or IPS, panels have the best colors and widest viewing angles of the three types. Because of this, they have become a staple in the creative industries and are a popular choice for digital artists. At the same time, IPS panels typically have slower response times and low contrast.

Twisted Nematic, or TN, panels are traditionally regarded as the “fastest” monitor panels because they generally introduce less input lag. Their high performance comes at the expense of color accuracy and viewing angles, so images may not look as vivid as they would on a VA or IPS panel. Manufacturers have closed the gap in response time between TN panels and the others, so you really only see them in very cheap displays, or esports monitors with extremely high refresh rates.

Vertical Alignment, or VA, panels are the middle ground between IPS and TN, offering a balance between deep color and high speed. VA panels also benefit from superior contrast. While a great IPS panel may have a 1000:1 contrast ratio, many VA panels triple that and come in at 3000:1. Blacks are typically much darker on VA panels and are a better fit for use in low-light environments. 

While panel type impacts your monitor’s picture, the impact of using one panel type vs. another is usually quite small. They are a general indication of how a monitor may perform, but the nuances of a monitor’s color depth are usually best judged with the naked eye. (Or, if you’re a creative pro, using a colorimeter.)

HDR and brightness

High Dynamic Range (HDR) is one of the most popular display standards available today. In a nutshell, HDR content leverages new display technologies to display a much wider range of colors and brightness levels, capturing more vivid colors and enabling your monitor to depict a wider range of light and shadow in a single image. 

Judging whether a monitor supports HDR content or not is a surprisingly contentious issue. To really see HDR as intended, your monitor needs to be capable of getting very bright, so it can show both high- and low-light situations. Many PC monitors technically can serve HDR content, but can’t get bright enough to properly display it. For most PC monitors—32 inches or smaller—we look for a maximum brightness of 600 or higher. On larger screens, including TVs, you really want 1000 nits or more. Monitors that support HDR, but fail to reach those marks will appear brighter in HDR mode, but will not change how an image is lit. HDR also requires advanced color depth, so be sure the display you’re looking at also supports 10-bit color or higher. 

HDR-enabled monitors make it easy to check their maximum brightness, as they feature a DisplayHDR certification from the Video Electronics Standards Association, commonly known as VESA. The DisplayHDR rating system includes the monitor’s maximum brightness as part of its rating—which ranges from HDR400 (400 nits) to HDR1400 (1400 nits).

FAQs

Q: Are curved monitors actually better?

Many users believe they can be, but it really comes down to personal taste. There are two reasons for using a curved monitor. First, when sitting the proper distance from the screen, a curved display can minimize the number of times you turn your head, thus reducing neck strain.

Second, gamers may appreciate that the screen takes up more of your field of view, immersing you into the on-screen action. It feels especially impactful in first-person experiences, where a curved ultrawide screen may allow you to use your peripheral vision.

In both cases, the impact will feel substantial to some, and insignificant to others. For the right person, though, it makes for a substantial upgrade.

Q: What are the pros and cons of a curved monitor?

The biggest benefit that curved monitors offer is their immersive viewing experience. The arc of the screen takes up more of your field of view and adds depth that flat monitors can’t provide. When properly positioned, you can see and do more than is possible with a single normal monitor.

There are some important cons that you should consider before buying one for yourself. Curved monitors tend to be larger and take up more space on your desk, so your desk area will likely feel more cramped than if you were using a normal flat panel. This is especially true if you opt for an ultrawide curved display. A curved screen also naturally reduces viewing angles, so they’re not great for when you need to share your screen. Gauging whether you’ll like a certain curve can also be difficult without actually experiencing it for yourself, so if you can’t try before you buy, you’ll need to be prepared to return it, which can be a bigger chore due to the often large, unwieldy box.

Q: Can you have two curved monitors?

Technically you can use two curved monitors side-by-side, but we wouldn’t recommend it.

Using two curved monitors effectively undoes the ergonomic benefits of the curved panel: When sitting at the proper distance, centered, in front of a curved monitor, you shouldn’t have to twist your neck to take in the full screen. 

With two curved monitors, you’ll need to turn and re-center every time you switch. On top of that, lining up the arc of two curved displays puts a bezel to be in the center of your viewing area. It’s possible to use a second curved monitor at an angle, or positioned above your first (if you don’t mind craning your neck), but in general, it is more difficult and less immersive to use two curved displays.

Instead of using two curved displays, we’d recommend using a second flat panel monitor off to the side, or upgrading to a curved ultrawide display, which should give you a similar amount of screen real estate. If space isn’t a concern, it’s also possible to use three curved monitors to create a “u” for an immensely immersive viewing experience.

Final thoughts on the best curved monitors

Curved monitors are more popular than ever before. They provide a comfortable, immersive experience that enhances games and productivity. With the market for curved monitors expanding, there are options at any price point now, so if you’ve tried one and want to make the jump, there’s an option for every budget.

Why trust us

Popular Science started writing about technology more than 150 years ago. There was no such thing as “gadget writing” when we published our first issue in 1872, but if there was, our mission to demystify the world of innovation for everyday readers means we would have been all over it. Here in the present, PopSci is fully committed to helping readers navigate the increasingly intimidating array of devices on the market right now.

Our writers and editors have combined decades of experience covering and reviewing consumer electronics. We each have our own obsessive specialties—from high-end audio to video games to cameras and beyond—but when we’re reviewing devices outside of our immediate wheelhouses, we do our best to seek out trustworthy voices and opinions to help guide people to the very best recommendations. We know we don’t know everything, but we’re excited to live through the analysis paralysis that internet shopping can spur so readers don’t have to.

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The best Memorial Day laptop, desktop, and monitor deals are easy to process https://www.popsci.com/gear/best-memorial-day-amazon-computer-deals-2023/ Fri, 26 May 2023 12:52:33 +0000 https://www.popsci.com/?p=543563
The Best Memorial Day Computer Deals
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Reboot the center of your tech life or finally upgrade that home office.

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The Best Memorial Day Computer Deals
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Memorial Day Weekend is here, meaning it’s time to score some quick deals before heading out to a cookout or hitting the highway to visit friends and family. While the holiday is traditionally synonymous with mattresses and outdoor gear, you can score discounts on computer hardware that may make returning to work a little easier come Tuesday morning. Whether you’re looking for a computer for an upcoming college student or want to treat yourself to a home office upgrade as you settle into permanent remote or hybrid work, it’s a good time to pick up a new laptop, desktop, or monitor while saving a lot of money. Just remember, these deals can sell out, so if you see something you want, don’t hesitate.

M2 MacBook Pro $1,099 (Was $1,299)

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Apple isn’t holding its own Memorial Day Weekend sale, but you can save $200 on its latest MacBook Pro by shopping on Amazon. The M2 MacBook Pro has 8GB of RAM (memory), 256GB of storage, and a 13.3-inch high-resolution “retina” display. It runs on Apple’s latest M2 chip, which means it’s capable of resource-intensive tasks like 4K video editing and gaming (if the game has a Mac version) and common use cases like online shopping, video chatting, editing documents, and streaming video. This processor is also energy-efficient, allowing the laptop to get up to 20 hours of life per charge, though the amount you get will depend on how you use the machine.

If you hate passwords, its Touch ID fingerprint reader will allow you to unlock the machine and authenticate yourself when installing software, which is much more convenient. All in all, the M2 MacBook Pro is a laptop we can recommend to anybody, and Amazon’s Memorial Day Weekend deal addresses the one issue we typically have with Apple gear: cost. If you’ve been waiting for a good MacBook deal for work or school, now’s the time to pick one up.

The best Memorial Day laptop deals

The best Memorial Day desktop deals

The best Memorial Day monitor deals

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The best earbuds in 2023, tested and reviewed https://www.popsci.com/reviews/best-earbuds/ Sat, 10 Jul 2021 00:00:00 +0000 https://www.popsci.com/?p=378407
Best earbuds sliced and diced header
Tony Ware

Sweet earbuds to pair with jogs, joy rides, joysticks, joking with coworkers, just music, and more.

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Best earbuds sliced and diced header
Tony Ware

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Best overall AirPods Pro 2 in my hand in Times Square Apple AirPods Pro 2
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Apple’s AirPods Pro 2 offer the best balance of sound, battery life, comfort, and extra features.

Best noise cancellation Bose QuietComfort Earbuds II in my hand on a Metro train Bose QuietComfort Earbuds II
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The Bose QuietComfort Earbuds II will become the most indispensable gadget for your plane trips or commute.

Best budget EarFun Air Pro 3 earbuds with charging case in my hand in front of plants EarFun Air Pro 3
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EarFun’s Air Pro 3 earbuds offer better sound than we’d expect from a pair that cost well under $100.

If you’re wondering just how broad the personal audio market has become, consider the vast world of earbuds, ranging from less than $25 to well over $1,000. While wired earbuds still exist, True Wireless (TWS) earbuds have become the most popular option, thanks to improvements in micro-sized receivers that can deliver huge sound. Bluetooth technology has evolved to the point it can all but guarantee seamless connections, while an array of microphones and sensors help keep music and conversations clear. That means TWS earbuds are no longer a luxury item made by a select few companies. Yet there are still times when a wire is the way to go. Whether you’re an audiophile or a devout Apple enthusiast in the market for sports or gaming earbuds, we’ve compiled what you need to know to find the best earbuds that’ll match your needs.

How we chose the best earbuds

There are nearly infinite earbuds available—models of all shapes, sizes, and price points—so we relied on hands ears-on testing to determine the best ones currently available. Our tests helped us determine the best earbuds for several specific use cases, like gaming or podcast listening, and let us single out pairs that performed best when using key features like active noise cancellation. Audio quality was paramount when making our selections, so each earbud you see below passes our sound quality tests regardless of how much money you spend.

The most discerning listeners will be able to pick up the subtle improvements on more premium pairs, but each set of earbuds will sound great if you open up a streaming app, find the music you’re looking for, and hit play. Our focus has mostly been on TWS types, which have become the dominant style in recent years, popularized in the mainstream by Apple’s AirPods. The convenience of these earbuds is undeniable, and current-generation pairs from well-known audio companies and newcomers alike offer incredible sound for their size. But we threw in some other options, too. There’s no shortage of new and exciting earbuds, but these are the best ones you can get today.

The best earbuds: Reviews & Recommendations

Whether you’re heading out for a trail run, on an open-world quest, or need to get locked in a work groove, you can get a pair of earbuds to suit your needs. And you can find them below, where we’ve collected some of the best options for any purpose and across every price point.

Best overall: Apple AirPods Pro 2

Tony Ware

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Specs

  • Style: True wireless
  • Battery life: Up to 6 hours
  • Active noise cancellation: Yes
  • IP rating: IPX4
  • Microphones: Yes (3)

Pros

  • Well-balanced sound
  • Solid battery life
  • Compatible with Spatial Audio
  • Updated case with “Find My” support

Cons

  • Best technical features only work when connected to Apple devices

Apple’s second-generation AirPods Pro—colloquially known as AirPods Pro 2—are the best earbuds you can get in 2023; there, we said it. The latest version of Apple’s true wireless earbuds feature appreciable improvements in audio quality, active noise-cancelling performance, Spatial Audio support, and they come in an updated case with genuinely useful features. In short, it’s the total package, and it should be the default choice for many, especially if you use Apple devices.

In our first impressions, and continued tests conducted over several months of frequent use, the AirPods Pro 2 consistently impressed. The earbuds don’t have a totally flat frequency response, but Apple’s sonic sculpting—a little extra boost to the bottom end and slightly raised mids—doesn’t make songs sound unnatural or artificial. Music with a lot of low-end sounds extra full without bass distortion, while live music, pop, rock, and jazz benefit from Apple’s tweaks. We never found ourselves wanting to muck around with a digital multiband EQ. Apple did the research to determine what would sound good to most people, and it mostly stuck the landing.

The original AirPods Pro earbuds were lauded for bringing premium active noise cancellation to earbuds, and the second generation brings several improvements in this area. The AirPods Pro 2 could block out far more ambient noise—keys being typed, birds chirpings, footsteps—and loud sporadic noises like a New York City subway car clattering on the tracks. It’s not the best active noise cancellation we’ve experienced in a pair of earbuds, but it’s not too far off.

Apple says the AirPods Pro 2 earbuds get up to six hours of playtime per charge, with an extra 24 hours thanks to its battery case. That’s mostly been true in our experience, though keeping active noise cancellation enabled all the time did drain the earbuds more quickly. With one or two 15-minute breaks, you should be able to get through an entire international flight with the AirPods Pro 2’s ANC turned on. If you work in an office, coffee shop, or at home with another people, the active noise cancellation should be sufficient to create a reasonable buffer between you and the outside world.

One of the big bets with the original AirPods was support for Spatial Audio, a type of binaural surround sound you can take on the go. The technology was impressive, if unproven, but Apple has spent the past few years coaxing artists to re-release classic albums or release new ones with a Dolby Atmos mix. The library for surround sound music on Apple Music has exploded, and the AirPods 2 let you take full advantage of it—though if you want the true Dolby Atmos experience, you’ll need to pony up for an Apple TV and surround sound speaker system.

Spatial Audio tracks on the AirPods 2 do sound more immersive than their stereo counterparts, especially if you enable head tracking, which will automatically pan music based on how your head is turned to recreate the experience of listening to music on speakers. Spatial Audio mixes are still hit or miss, but at least there’s a variety of music to choose from. Apple offers a way to personalize the Spatial Audio experience by taking pictures of your face and ears, but we didn’t notice a big difference and performance.

One of Apple’s most unexpected updates to the AirPods Pro 2 was changing its case. The new case has a larger battery, lanyard loupe, and support for “Find My,” which allows you to track the location of your AirPods 2 case in case the earbuds get lost. A built-in speaker can play a chime, making it easier to find. These welcome improvements make a tangible difference in the earbuds’ overall usability. Sometimes it boils down to nice things being nice.

The only potential downside to using the AirPods Pro 2 is that they’re designed to work best with Apple’s other gear, so if you don’t have an iPhone, iPad, or Mac, you’ll get a slightly worse experience. The AirPods Pro 2 will still sound the same and have identical active noise-cancelling performance, but features like instant pairing are absent. This isn’t a dealbreaker, but it’s something to consider if you live in the Windows and Android world.

Are the AirPods Pro 2 the best-sounding earbuds? No. Are they the best active noise-cancelling earbuds? No, but by offering a great technical and audio experience, they’re the most well-rounded pair. The whole is greater than the sum of its parts, and we can’t imagine anyone complaining about this pair of earbuds.

Best noise-cancelling: Bose QuietComfort Earbuds II

Tony Ware

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Why it made the cut: Bose’s QuietComfort Earbuds II have the most-efficient noise cancellation of any earbuds we’ve ever tested—to an almost eerie extent.

Specs 

  • Style: True wireless
  • Battery life: Up to 6 hours
  • Active noise cancellation: Yes
  • IP rating: IPX7
  • Microphones: Yes (4)

Pros

  • Best-in-class noise cancellation
  • Four microphones per bud
  • Bose app is actually helpful

Cons

  • Only three pairs of eartips are included

Bose’s QuietComfort Earbuds II are actually kind of scary. Their active noise cancellation was so effective that sounds I used to test it, like clapping my hands, didn’t produce an audible sound. The difference between what I was seeing and hearing was actually jarring. At some points, the only thing I could hear and feel was my heartbeat, a unique experience compared to my experience with other ANC earbuds. I’m not alone; our associate managing editor was also impressed while commuting with them on the New York City subway.

The reason for this incredible active noise cancellation? Each bud has two microphones instead of one. The mics are located above and below each bud’s ear tip, which also improves your vocal quality while taking calls. This hardware is tightly integrated with Bose’s custom processor, which continually adjusts to filter frequencies with laser precision. This performance comes in a pair of earbuds that’s roughly a third smaller by volume compared to the first-generation pair and comes in a dramatically smaller case.

If you don’t want to experience the full isolation chamber-like experience the QuietComfort Earbuds II can offer, you can adjust their active noise cancellation via Bose’s mobile app, which is better than you’d expect. The app walked us through the earbud’s initial pairing process and made it easy to switch between quiet and aware—noise cancellation and transparency modes, respectively—and allowed us to set two custom modes based on our personal preferences. We opted to create a “home” mode with active noise cancellation at 100%, allowing us to experience the earbuds’ true potential.

On the audio side, Bose updated the QuietComfort Earbuds II with 9mm dynamic drivers and Bluetooth 5.3 with support for the SBC/AAC codecs. We liked how the earbuds’ sounded out of the box and didn’t need to futz around with the digital EQ in Bose’s app—though we were pleased it was present. We could hear each instrument in complex arrangements, even while listening to lossy audio with ANC on. Subtle sounds—like the piano on “Smog Eyes” by Warne Marsh— were as present as prominent ones, a true feat. The earbuds could have heavy-handed treble on occasion, but that had to do with how certain tracks were mastered rather than a technical deficiency on the earbuds themselves.

There’s no shortage of excellent active noise-cancelling earbuds, but the Bose QuietComfort Earbuds II currently reign supreme.  

Best for multiple devices: Technics EAH-AZ80

Brandt Ranj / Popular Science

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Specs

  • Style: True wireless
  • Battery life: Up to 7 hours
  • Active noise cancellation: Yes
  • IP rating: IPX4
  • Microphones: Yes (8)

Pros

  • Smooth multi-point pairing
  • Four microphones per ear
  • Compact size
  • LDAC support

Cons

  • Cost

Technics may be most synonymous with club turntables thanks to its legendary SL-1200 (now 1210MKII), a deck used worldwide by DJs. Still, music listeners (rather than performers) should immediately acquaint themselves with the company’s new EAH-AZ80 earbuds. Their marquee feature is triple multipoint pairing—the ability to keep the earbuds connected to three devices simultaneously—but that’s just the tip of the iceberg. We’ve had the opportunity to test the earbuds for a couple of weeks, and they’ve become the top pair we’ve tried in 2023.

Let’s start with their multipoint pairing, which works astonishingly well. After pairing the earbuds to a couple of devices, they would automatically connect to both as long as they were within range. If I paused music on the first device, I could hit play on the second, and the audio would immediately start to play. The same was true when I threw a third device into the mix—to be clear, I approach any Bluetooth earbuds multipoint pairing with skepticism, and no earbuds claim to work with three devices. This is very difficult to pull off technically, and the only earbuds that have done it as well are Apple’s AirPods 2. But Apple’s top-tier earbuds only support seamless multipoint pairing when connected to the company’s other devices. The EAH-AZ80s can be multipoint paired with any gear regardless of its operating system.

On the active noise cancellation front, these earbuds stand above the AirPods Pro 2 but not quite at the level of QuietComfort Earbuds II. They blocked out almost—but not quite—as much sound as the latter. Commuters and travelers can turn to Technics earbuds for excellent ANC performance, and it’s up to most of the rest of the audio industry to play catch up. As for how others can hear you through ambient noise, eight high-sensitivity MEMS mics plus advanced noise reduction capture and transmit your voice clearly. Surprisingly, Technics went from off our consumer earbud radar to near the top, but that’s how good the EAH-AZ80s have performed in our tests.

While we were pleased with the earbuds’ technical performance, we were blown away by how good the 10mm free-edge drivers (housed in a custom acoustic chamber) sound. Rich bass, smooth as silk midrange, and clear highs were present each time we hit play. It didn’t matter if we were listening to Miles Davis’ “Kind Of Blue” for the umpteenth time or catching up with the latest Dawes album released earlier this year; the EAH-AZ80s would continue to reveal new sounds during repeated listenings. These are reference-grade Bluetooth earbuds, especially if you’re using one of the few devices that support the LDAC codec (either a small selection of Android smartphones or a dedicated digital audio player), which offers near-lossless audio quality streamed wirelessly. If you have the right setup and audio files, these earbuds are basically peerless.

All of this performance comes at a cost, and while the EAH-AZ80s aren’t the most expensive earbuds out there, they’re a sizable investment. However, if you regularly bounce between different devices, stream high-resolution audio, prefer smaller earbuds, or can appreciate any combination of the three, we can’t see how these earbuds would let you down.

Best battery life: beyerdynamic Free BYRD

Tony Ware

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Specs

  • Style: True wireless
  • Battery life: Up to 11 hours
  • Active noise cancellation: Yes
  • IP rating: IPX4
  • Microphones: Yes (2)

Pros

  • Incredible battery life
  • Bundled with eight sets of ear tips
  • Phenomenal fit

Cons

  • They stick out from your ears

Beyerdynamic has been a part of the audio world for decades, impressing us with its mixing headphones, among others, but its latest long-lasting earbuds took us by surprise. While we were pleased by the Free BYRD’s sound and fit, its 11-hour battery life (eight if you leave active noise cancellation off) is in the top tier of true wireless earbuds. If you toggle ANC on and off regularly, you should have no problem getting nine hours of music playback before popping them back into their case. If you do somehow run out of juice during a single listening session, the Free BYRD’s case offers an hour of music playback off a 10-minute charge.

Most true wireless earbuds last roughly five to six hours with ANC turned on—the extra two hours offered by the Free BYRDs make a huge difference on a transatlantic flight, where tuning out the whirring sound of an engine can make the difference between sleep and misery. The Free BYRDs’ battery life is impressive, but it’s not the only reason they’ve made the cut. We were also very taken by the earbuds’ noise cancellation, which only comes up short when compared to the QuietComfort Earbuds II.

While the Free BYRDs didn’t produce the same eerie isolation chamber-like effect as Bose’s earbuds, they did block out a significant amount of noise. When listening to music at 80%, only the loudest sounds—think a sudden, expected clang, or jackhammer on the street—could pierce the bubble. One of the reasons for this impressive performance was that Beyerdynamic includes eight pairs of eartips in the box, so you can find the ones that fit your ears perfectly.

A tight seal around your ear is essential to getting good active noise-cancelling performance, and the Free BYRDs pass that test with flying colors. A tight seal can put unwanted pressure on the inside of your ear, but that was never the case with these earbuds. Another upside: The earbud seal was so tight we could headbang to our heart’s content without the risk of them falling out.

Concerning audio, the Free BYRDs’ 10mm dynamic drivers produced sound on par with our top-rated earbud pick, the AirPods Pro 2. They support SBC, AAC, and aptX Adaptive codecs in their Bluetooth 5.2 container. In our tests, which included listening to music from different genres and spoken word audio like podcasts and audiobooks, the Free BYRDs never skipped a beat. Everything we listened to sounded surprisingly natural, which is particularly great when listening to people speaking.

Punchy bass, midrange clarity, and never-crispy treble are always a winning combination, as they are here. The sound was so good we never thought about mucking with the digital EQ in beyerdynamic’s MIY app. You can run through a hearing test in the app to tune these earbuds based on how sensitive your ears are to different frequencies, but this is entirely optional. We can’t imagine anyone being upset with the way the Free BYRDs sound out of the box.

You should be aware of the guitar pick-like shape of these earbuds, which makes them protrude from your ears. It’s not that you look silly wearing the Free BYRDS, but they will look different than most modern earbuds. That’s a small price to pay for their great sound, solid active noise cancellation, and exceptional battery life.

Best for sustainability: House of Marley Redemption ANC 2

Brandt Ranj

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Specs

  • Style: True wireless
  • Battery life: Up to 6 hours
  • Active noise cancellation: Yes
  • IP rating: IPX5
  • Microphones: Yes (2)

Pros

  • Made from sustainable materials
  • Fast charging support
  • Surprisingly good fit

Cons

  • Lackluster app

With the Redemption ANC 2 earbuds, House of Marley has made bedfellows out of technology and sustainability without any major concessions. These earbuds—case and all—are made (in part) from a mix of solid bamboo, natural wood fiber composite, and recycled plastics.

In our tests, choosing these materials didn’t impact the Redemption ANC 2s sound, fit, or noise cancellation performance, which is especially impressive considering their relatively low price. They even beat some of our favorite earbuds in the durability department due to their IPX5 rating, which will protect them from damage by sweat or splashes of water—getting caught running in a rainstorm won’t spell trouble. This feature is especially welcome because the Redemption ANC 2 earbuds’ fit is so good that we can easily recommend them for working out. Running and jumping couldn’t dislodge them from our ears.

Active noise cancellation is the namesake feature of these earbuds, and we were pretty pleased with their performance in this area. They aren’t at the level of our more premium earbud recommendations, but that’s to be expected given their sub-$160 price. The earbuds effectively blocked keyboard typing and footsteps, but loud noises like car horns could still be heard prominently. They may not be the best choice for airplane flights, but the Redemption ANC 2s are perfectly suited for office use.

Our experience with the earbuds’ sound was similarly satisfying. We could detect a difference in clarity when comparing the Redemption ANC 2s directly to the AirPods Pro 2 or QuietComfort Earbuds II, but that didn’t dampen our enjoyment of listening to music. If you get these earbuds, you’re not going to be disappointed by the way they sound unless you veer toward audiophile hardware, in which case the Redemption ANC 2s aren’t targeted at you. There was some muddiness in the low end and some sibilance at the high end, but overall the earbuds produced a pleasing sound. You can mitigate some of these audio abnormalities by tuning the EQ in House of Marley’s app, but we were disappointed by how barebones this software was.

Despite this setback, we feel comfortable recommending the House of Marley ANC 2s to anyone who takes the sustainability of their technology seriously. You’ll end up with a good-sounding, great-fitting set of relatively inexpensive true wireless earbuds with a fair lower environmental impact than most gadgets.

Best for gamers: ASUS ROG Cetra

Brandt Ranj / Popular Science

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Specs

  • Style: True wireless
  • Battery life: Up to 5.5 hours
  • Active noise cancellation: Yes (Hybrid)
  • IP rating: IPX4
  • Microphones: Yes (2)

Pros

  • Virtual 7.1 surround sound
  • Case has an LED
  • Price

Cons

  • Not the fullest ANC
  • So-so audio quality for music

ASUS’ ROG Cetra is a pair of budget-priced true wireless earbuds with features designed for gamers—provided you use the company’s Armory Crate software. One advantage of the ROG Cetras is that the earbuds fit into a hardware ecosystem. ASUS has desktops, laptops, mobile gaming handhelds, controllers, and these earbuds are designed to fit in. Their case has a pleasing rounded-off shape, and opening it reveals an LED—a trademark of PC gaming rigs.

The earbuds themselves feel comfortable to wear and get solid battery life for a pair that costs under $100. We didn’t find ourselves reaching for a charger more than twice a week during our tests, which is on par with earbuds that cost three times the price. The biggest difference between the ROG Cetras and their premium counterparts is noise cancellation. These earbuds support hybrid noise cancellation, which uses external and internal feedforward/feedback mics but isn’t fully effective at blocking noise. Light background sounds would fade away, but moderately loud ones remained audible.

A big draw for gamers who use ASUS Armoury Crate software is the ability to activate the low-latency gaming mode and use these earbuds to create a virtual 7.1 surround sound environment. The effect wasn’t as impressive as Spatial Audio on the AirPods Pro 2, but we could hear some additional separation when the settings were correct. The experience varied from game to game, and ASUS can’t control the sound mixing of each title, so your experience may vary.

We’re recommending these earbuds to gamers because they were designed with this use case in mind. Chiptune music from older and indie games, or explosions and dialogue from newer ones, sounded pretty good, but the ROG Cetra’s 10mm drivers weren’t tuned for music, which didn’t sound very clear. Nuances we could hear with higher-end earbuds were gone on the Cetras, and it was more difficult to discern sounds across different frequency ranges. If you need a pair of inexpensive earbuds to pair with your portable gaming machines, these are a solid pick, but music lovers should look at our other recommendations.

Best for working out: Apple Beats Fit Pro

Stan Horaczek

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Specs

  • Style: True wireless
  • Battery life: 6 hours single-charge; 24 hours with case
  • Active noise cancellation: Yes
  • IP rating: IPX4
  • Microphones: Yes

Pros

  • High-performance active noise canceling in a compact earbud design
  • Secure design stays in ear when running or working out
  • Compatible with dynamic head tracking on iOS devices
  • Includes pocket-sized travel case and three eartip options

Cons

  • No wireless charging
  • iOS device required for full functionality
  • Not protected against water immersion
  • No multipoint pairing

We’ve thoroughly reviewed the Apple Beats Fit Pro, and they’re the best for working out thanks to their sound quality, movement-friendly design, and fantastic iOS compatibility. They contain the same proprietary H1 chip found in Apple’s AirPods, enabling near-instantaneous pairing, steady, reliable connections to iOS devices, and battery life optimization. Like AirPods, the Beats Fit Pro earbuds are also fully compatible with iOS head-tracking and Spatial Audio features for simulated surround sound and immersive media listening. Their inclusion of active noise cancellation (ANC) and transparency modes make them equally useful on the road and at the gym. We also love the range of colors these buds come in, particularly their unique skin tone range.

The Beats Fit Pro earbuds are designed to sit securely in your ears using small rubber wings that rest comfortably against your outer ear along with three sets of variously sized ear tips. A quick optional setup step uses the earbuds’ onboard microphones to test your fit for sound leaks. Once your optimal fit is achieved, the Beats Fit Pro can endure almost every exercise imaginable—from running to rowing—without budging. The earbuds’ conveniently pocked-sized charging case brings their total battery life to around 24 hours. While it would be nice to see wireless charging in a product with this price tag, we appreciate that the case is chargeable via USB-C rather than Apple’s proprietary Lightning connector.

If you work out regularly and are an iPhone user, you’d be seriously hard-pressed to find a better in-ear option because of the snug fit, balanced sound, and seamless iOS connectivity. If you’re sold on the Beats features but are looking for an option with earhooks, the Powerbeats Pro earbuds are also a solid choice.

Best planar-magnetic earphones: 7Hertz Timeless AE

Chris Coke

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Specs

  • Style: Wired
  • Type: Closed-back earphones
  • Frequency Response: 5Hz – 40kHz
  • Impedance: 14.8 ohm
  • Sensitivity: 104dB
  • Weight: 5.5 grams (each earpiece)

Pros

  • Very well-tuned, balanced sound
  • Full of detail
  • Good bass performance

Cons

  • Unusual shape 
  • Limited soundstage

Unlike dynamic and balanced armature drivers, which comprise most earbuds, planar magnetics feature larger, thinner membranes—contributing to lighting-quick low-distortion transients but often require more voltage to drive. Luckily, the technology has evolved so that planar earphones are no longer expensive unicorns. Still, there has rarely been such a well-tuned option at such an affordable price. The magic of the 7Hertz Timeless AE lies in the tuning of its 14.2mm drivers (powered by double-sided N52 magnet arrays), updated to provide deeper, more impactful bass and smoother treble for hours of easy listening. It’s a warmer sound that delivers an enjoyable amount of detail, combining to make these earphones a well-balanced buy at $249. If you’re into wired earphones and want ones that don’t skimp on the bass, the 7Hz Timeless AE is an impeccable balance of price and performance. The Timeless isn’t perfect, however. It breaks the mold with the divisive, quarter-like shape of its earpieces. You’ll either be ambivalent about the shape or outright hate the shells—there doesn’t seem to be much in between.

And suppose you’ve got $1,500 and want something exclusively yours. In that case, the Campfire Audio Supermoon is an in-ear monitor featuring 14mm, 2-micron-thick planar drivers in solid-body enclosures custom-molded to your ear canals. The bass is textured but controlled, the midrange is dynamic, and the treble is honest (which can be a good or bad thing, depending on the recording). Planar IEMs are really coming into their own.

Best budget: EarFun Air Pro 3

Tony Ware

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Specs

  • Style: True wireless
  • Battery life: Up to 9 hours
  • Active noise cancellation: Yes (Hybrid)
  • IP rating: IPX5
  • Microphones: Yes (6)

Pros

  • Bluetooth 5.3—with support for SBC, AAC, aptX adaptive, plus LE Audio & LC3
  • Multipoint connectivity
  • 45-hour playtime: 9 hours + 36 hours with wireless-compatible charging case
  • Delivers insane performance:price ratio

Cons

  • ANC, while good, isn’t going to match premium earbuds
  • Mics can pick up wind
  • Volume can seem low with some devices
  • Not going to rival the sonic separation of earbuds that cost 3x as much (but they cost 3x as much)

There’s cheap, and then there’s a bargain, and the two shouldn’t be confused. The EarFun Air Pro 3 is the latter: budget TWS earbuds that pack ridiculous features and value for $79 (less with regular discounts). Stemmed earbuds in the style of their namesake (the AirPods, natch), the Air Pro 3 earbuds feature active noise cancellation, Bluetooth 5.3, six mics, 9 hours of battery life, touch controls, multipoint connections, and more in a classic, comfortable ergonomic form factor. If you like the idea of AirPods but not the price, especially if you want that type of earbuds for an Android device, the Air Pro 3 is a top pick.

Bluetooth 5.3—with support for SBC, AAC, aptX adaptive, plus LE Audio & LC3—delivers a low-power, stable signal to feed the 11mm wool composite dynamic drivers higher-bitrate content. Bass is the standout frequency band, punchy without being paunchy, but its confident strut is nicely balanced by fleshy midrange and bright highs. And QuietSmart 2.0 hybrid active noise cancellation up to 43dB ensures you can enjoy that richly appointed range; it’s not Bose-level ANC but proves more than efficient. Plus, there’s a graphic EQ-enabled app to tweak settings and coax clarity. While imaging isn’t the best, and they’re not the most compact, the EarFun Air Pro 3 earbuds are great if you want to take some fun thump on your commute and they are the budget ANC earbuds to beat, particularly for fans of modern bass-heavy genres.

What to consider when shopping for the best earbuds

From a secure fit to fabulous sound, the best earbuds can provide what you need. Here are the main things to consider when shopping: 

How can I ensure a good fit?

TWS earbuds have become so popular, in part, because companies have been able to develop earbuds that won’t fall out. The best wireless earbuds include ear tips (typically sized S, M, and L, but sometimes including middle sizes like SM or ML) that fit snugly and comfortably in the canal of your ear. Some models offer flexible wings or fins that fit the concha and make the earbuds feel locked in place, while others come with hooks or malleable wires that curl over your ear to secure things. Deciding on the best design is a personal choice but, thankfully, many models come with multiple ear tip options—most often a mix of silicone (better for quick insertion/removal) and foam (better for isolation)—to give you a good chance of finding a fit that’s right for your ears. 

What if I might get caught in the rain?

The best earbuds offer some water resistance, and you can even find waterproof earbuds. The way to determine how your electronics can cope with environmental intrusions is by checking the Ingress Protection, or IP, rating—two numerals that indicate resistance to liquids and dust. Earbuds can go all the way up to an IP68 rating—meaning they can be fully submerged in over 1 meter of water for up to 30 minutes without damage, and won’t be heard by a tumble into the sand at a beach. If you live in a wet climate or work up a prodigious sweat on the treadmill, look for models with higher water-resistance ratings. But if you just need earbuds that can withstand a little drizzle or a few drops of sweat, an IPX4 rating could suffice. Many charging cases for the best wireless earbuds offer their own amount of water and dust protection. However, some of the best budget wireless earbuds sacrifice that added security to reduce costs.  

What if I’m a music-first type? 

TWS earbuds can work for audiophiles. The best earbuds have high-resolution receivers, digital audio converters, custom-tuned drivers, and amplifiers that combine to deliver sound replicating the original recording as closely as possible. Look for the newest 5.2 or 5.3 versions of the Bluetooth protocol with support for codecs (the digital format that compresses and transmits the sound) that match your device to your earbuds. Everyone supports SBC, but Apple prefers AAC, Sony promotes LDAC, and Android devices are likelier to support aptX/aptX HD/aptX adaptive/aptX Lossless. And these various formats operate at varying bitrates, from basic to high-resolution, with the top of the scale minimizing the lossy properties of compression.

Additionally, information like frequency response can tell you how well the earbuds reproduce low tones to high notes—20Hz to 20kHz is the baseline from which to expand—while the maximum decibel output tells you its capability. At the end of the day, the surest test is to see how the buds sound in your ears, but some of the best earbuds offer detailed EQ customization that almost ensures they’ll play music tailored to your tastes. And if you’re looking for the purest signal, it’s always going to come wired.  

What if I need some peace and quiet?

Almost all earbuds provide some amount of passive noise isolation, which means that they are designed with snug-fitting tips that can mute the outside world. Many of the best earbuds, however, offer active noise cancellation (ANC), which means microphones measure surroundings and speakers emit sound waves to neutralize the ambient noise in your environment—the effect makes listeners feel like they are in a cocoon of silence (though some users report a pressurized sensation). Some high-end earbuds step it up to adaptive noise-canceling, which adapts the noise-canceling algorithm based on the sound levels/types or location, and this is often accompanied by a transparency mode, which lets in (and sometimes amplifies) ambient sound when you want to listen to music but also need to hear external announcements, the traffic coming up behind you, etc.    

Yeah, what if I still have devices with a headphone jack?

If you’re an audiophile needing the most full-spectrum sound or a gamer needing the lowest lag, or maybe you’re just traveling and want to plug into the in-flight entertainment, shop for the best wired earbuds. While Bluetooth 5.0 should provide a fairly seamless connection, the only way to entirely eliminate lag or frequency response loss is to plug in—although the best Bluetooth earbuds limit these shortcomings to the point where most users can’t even notice it.

What if I’m taking a lot of calls?

If you want to talk to your helpful virtual assistant or want to handle work calls with your staff, you’ll need earbuds equipped with microphones (and if the earbuds have features including ANC, it’s safe to assume there are mics to spare). Beamforming microphones will focus on your voice rather than the sounds around you, while cheaper microphones may mean your listener will get lost in the chatter if you’re in a busy place. Earbud microphones are typically protected by fabric designed to limit wind noise, but if you have the buds in an amplifying mode rather than a noise-canceling mode, you may find the wind distracting.     

What if I need my earbuds to last all day?

Earbuds offer playtimes anywhere from a couple of hours to the length of a workday. Charging cases add additional hours—or even days—of battery life before needing to be plugged back in (typically with a USB-C connection). While average earbud life is anywhere between four and eight hours, recharging them typically takes 1.5 hours to 3.5 hours. And many of the best earbuds offer quick-charging options that let you gain an hour or so of playtime in a tiny fraction of that time.   

FAQs

Q: Are cheap wireless earbuds good?

Cheap wireless earbuds can be good, especially if you’re just looking for a pair to pump some tunes on jogs or make your commute more bearable. For less than $50, don’t expect superior audio quality. Still, cheap earbuds can offer surprisingly dynamic and detailed sound, and you should be able to find a pair (even True Wireless earbuds) that will fit comfortably, resist sweat, and even handle phone calls.

Q: What should I look for when buying wireless earbuds?

There’s a lot to look for when buying wireless earbuds; your price point and purpose can go a long way toward determining what features you should prioritize. For example, gaming earbuds must limit latency, while the best wireless earbuds for working out must stay in place and repel moisture. Audiophiles may want to spend more for earbuds with high-end processors and/or analog connections that can deliver exceptionally rich and customizable sound. At the same time, shoppers on a budget may be perfectly happy with a set of cheap wireless earbuds that still manage to provide adequate audio quality.

Q: Why are wireless earbuds so expensive?

By now, the technology has developed enough so that wireless earbuds don’t have to be so expensive. Still, building water-resistant earbuds that stay snugly in place and have tiny 6mm drivers and Bluetooth chips that can convert digital data into rich stereo sound costs money, so many of the best earbuds cost more than $100. But at a certain point, wireless earbuds are so expensive because the market allows companies like Apple to charge a premium. Therefore, you’d be wise to compare features and see what it is that you’re really paying for.

Q: How much do wireless earbuds cost?

The best wireless earbuds can cost anywhere from under $75 to over $300, depending on their features. Premium audio hardware (like specialty drivers and advanced Bluetooth receivers), active noise cancellation, multipoint connectivity, and waterproofing are the main drivers of price.

Final thoughts on the best earbuds

In many ways, the best earbuds are earbuds that you don’t even think about. They fit in your ear without coming loose and they deliver a sound quality as good as live music. Still, shopping for the best earbuds leaves you with much to consider. Set your price point and go from there. Then, determining whether you need features like ANC, transparency, low latency, and customizable sound depends on how you plan to use them and the sharpness of your ear. With the array of earbud options available, you can definitely find the best earbuds for you. Here’s to making a sound choice.

Why trust us

Popular Science started writing about technology more than 150 years ago. There was no such thing as “gadget writing” when we published our first issue in 1872, but if there was, our mission to demystify the world of innovation for everyday readers means we would have been all over it. Here in the present, PopSci is fully committed to helping readers navigate the increasingly intimidating array of devices on the market right now.

Our writers and editors have combined decades of experience covering and reviewing consumer electronics. We each have our own obsessive specialties—from high-end audio to video games to cameras and beyond—but when we’re reviewing devices outside of our immediate wheelhouses, we do our best to seek out trustworthy voices and opinions to help guide people to the very best recommendations. We know we don’t know everything, but we’re excited to live through the analysis paralysis that internet shopping can spur so readers don’t have to.

The post The best earbuds in 2023, tested and reviewed appeared first on Popular Science.

Articles may contain affiliate links which enable us to share in the revenue of any purchases made.

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Arcade1Up Infinity Game Board review: Time to clear out your games closet https://www.popsci.com/gear/arcade1up-infinity-game-board-review/ Wed, 24 May 2023 21:00:00 +0000 https://www.popsci.com/?p=543298
The Arcade 1up Infinity Game Board with Monopoly on the screen
Monopoly is still only fun if you're winning. Chelsey B. Coombs

This touchscreen tablet lets you ditch physical games for digital versions of Monopoly, Pandemic, Risk, and much more.

The post Arcade1Up Infinity Game Board review: Time to clear out your games closet appeared first on Popular Science.

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The Arcade 1up Infinity Game Board with Monopoly on the screen
Monopoly is still only fun if you're winning. Chelsey B. Coombs

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My games closet has been a cramped disaster since I was a kid, filled to the brim with classic board games like Monopoly and Operation, along with boxes upon boxes of puzzles that I put together maybe once. Now that I live in NYC, I barely have room for my clothes in my apartment, let alone an entire collection of board games. Arcade1Up’s Infinity Game Board attempts to solve the space and missing-piece problems by packing over 100 digital games and activities—from gaming heavyweights like Hasbro and Asmodee—into a digital tablet.

Chelsey B. Coombs

SEE IT

Overview

  • Arcade1Up’s Infinity Game Board packs dozens and dozens of classic games into a space-saving digital form.
  • Fifty board games and activities are included, and 50+ more are available from an online store.

Pros

  • Saves space compared to regular board games
  • Hasbro and Asmodee partnerships mean you can play top board games
  • The puzzle options are endless
  • Game library expands monthly
  • No more lost pieces

Cons

  • A little heavy and needs an additional expensive battery to be truly portable
  • Some especially tactile games, like Hungry Hungry Hippos and Operation, don’t translate
  • Touchscreen can be finicky

Verdict: Board game enthusiasts and tiny home dwellers can conserve space without sacrificing choices with Arcade1Up’s Infinity Game Board.

The build

Arcade1Up’s $499 Infinity Game Board is an 18.5-inch HD (1920 x 1080) touchscreen tablet that lets you play board games and other activities both locally and online with other Infinity Game Board users. It supports games for up to six players, but you can play many games and activities with fewer people or even by yourself. It’s a more portable, compact, and less expensive alternative to the company’s $1,000 Infinity Game Table (originally an October 2020 Kickstarter project).

It’s a fairly substantial device, coming in at around seven pounds and 18.4” L x 11.25” W x 3.25” H after extending the legs. The ability to tilt those legs up is especially nice for playing one of the device’s pinball offerings. You’ll need to make sure you’re playing relatively close to an outlet because, without the AC adapter, you won’t be able to turn it on unless you buy the $199 battery, sold separately. The included AC adapter has a fairly long 10-foot cord, though, so it’s not as big of a hindrance as you might expect. 

Legs on the bottom of the 1up Arcade Game Board legs
Legs on the bottom of the Infinity Game Board make it more flexible for playing on surfaces. Chelsey B. Coombs

The setup

Set up is simple: plug it in, connect the board to a WiFi network, then create your Infinity Table account. You’re then taken to the main dashboard, which shows the Game Store, which has free and paid games, along with any games already in your collection. And with 16GB of storage space, the Infinity Game Board allows for a lot of games.

The performance

The great thing about the Infinity Game Board is that many of the most famous board games (Monopoly, Scrabble, Guess Who, Trivial Pursuit, Battleship, etc.) come free with the device. That’s probably partially why the device is $499—licensing all those classics from Hasbro can’t be cheap. Thankfully, there are so many included games and activities available that you don’t have to buy more titles unless you’d really like to.

And many of those classics play like the originals, just without physical pieces and with digital animations. Monopoly was a huge success for me. It feels just like playing the physical version. One highlight of the Infinity Game Board is that if your game goes too long (who hasn’t played a six-hour-long Monopoly slog), you can save it and come back later without worrying about having your carefully constructed real estate empire pieces falling all over the place when you move it from the dining room table. Most of the other games can also be paused and saved for later.

In some games, like Scrabble and Connect Four, the board also helpfully flips for easier viewing during your turn. That’s not very practical with a physical board and pieces.

Arcade 1up Infinity Game Board main menu
The tablet’s menu gives access to a ton of games. Chelsey B. Coombs

Digital vs. physical games

I was curious how physical games that rely on opponents not seeing your pieces, like Guess Who and Battleship, would work on a digital game board, and I found some great solutions the software developers had come up with. You can remember what your chosen Guess Who character looks like by pressing on the digital card for a few seconds until it flips over, allowing you to move your other hand around it so your opponent can’t see. In Battleship, you can check your fleet’s positions by clicking on a smaller version of the gameboard that you can cover with your hand, as well.

Puzzle Play was one of the highlights of my experience with the Infinity Game Board. You can choose from several photos from categories like abstract, architecture, flowers, etc., that can be turned into a custom puzzle with nine to 529 pieces. However, I’d probably steer clear of creating puzzles with the highest number of pieces because the Game Board itself is too small to organize the pieces without creating an overwhelming amount of on-screen clutter. If you want to dive hard into puzzles, the larger Infinity Game Table is probably better.

There’s even background music with bird sounds and flowing water that makes the experience of doing puzzles even more relaxing. I spent hours upon hours doing puzzles by myself and never got bored. There are also paid versions of Puzzle Play featuring themed image packs from DC Comics, Game of Thrones, and Harry Potter. And you never have to worry about losing a piece.

It’s also great that more complicated and specialized board games are available, usually for purchase. You can get Hasbro’s Risk, Asmodee’s Pandemic, or Ticket To Ride for $9.99. Harry Potter fans will enjoy the themed version of Trivial Pursuit and Wizard’s Chess, too. I hope that in the future, more Asmodee titles, especially those that tie in with pop culture licenses from Marvel to Star Wars to Stranger Things, are added to the Game Store.

Arcade 1up Infinity Game Board puzzles
Puzzles are a standout when it comes to fun. Chelsey B. Coombs

The feel of the games

While many of the digital versions of these games are fun, I did sometimes miss the tactile stimulation that is such an important part of the board game experience. What’s The Game of Life without physically putting the tiny plastic people into the car you move around the board? I missed dramatically flipping down the plastic frames in Guess Who that don’t match your opponent’s chosen character and pressing on the Trouble bubble, even though there is some haptic feedback on the board.   

Some of the Infinity Game Board games lacking this tactile stimulation I would skip altogether because they don’t translate well to a digital screen. Hungry Hungry Hippos just doesn’t feel right when you don’t get to press the hippos’ levers and grab the marbles physically. It almost felt like there was a pre-determined winner because the computer makes up where the marbles go, and if you’re on the wrong side, you’re out of luck. Operation is also a miss for me—instead of relying on the physical skill of keeping the forceps from touching the buzzing sides of the patient’s cavities, you just move your finger along a non-complicated maze, which isn’t difficult, even for children. 

The Infinity Game Board really shines with games and activities that naturally lend themselves to a digital experience, like Solitaire, Poker, and other card games, Love Charms (which is essentially Candy Crush), Minesweeper, and, I would imagine, the soon-to-be-downloadable Wheel of Fortune. I hope that when choosing games to make available in the future, Arcade1Up leans into that, potentially adding games like Family Feud or Scene It that would work well in this format. They could also lean into their company’s arcade machine roots, adding more pinball games or other classics like Pac-Man and Frogger.

So, who should buy the Arcade1Up Infinity Game Board?

I had a great time playing with the Arcade1Up Infinity Game Board, and if you love having friends and family over for game and puzzle nights, especially if you live in a home without a lot of extra storage space, it’s worth it. The infinite puzzle options alone make this a great buy. For those often playing video games on their phone or tablet, the Infinity Game Board also allows you to play a wide selection of them on a larger screen. Some games, like the aforementioned Hungry, Hungry Hippos, and Operation, will always be better in their original physical form. Still, there are so many other great options included for free and for purchase in the Game Store that the $499 price point is well worth it. 

The post Arcade1Up Infinity Game Board review: Time to clear out your games closet appeared first on Popular Science.

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The best Netgear routers for 2023 https://www.popsci.com/gear/best-netgear-routers/ Tue, 23 May 2023 21:35:00 +0000 https://www.popsci.com/?p=444040
The best netgear routers composited black edition
Stan Horaczek

Netgear makes a wide range of routers. Whether you're a gamer, content creator, or streaming fan, here's how to pick the best one for you.

The post The best Netgear routers for 2023 appeared first on Popular Science.

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The best netgear routers composited black edition
Stan Horaczek

We may earn revenue from the products available on this page and participate in affiliate programs. Learn more ›

Best mesh Netgear orbi 9 black edition router on a plain background Netgear Orbi Quad-Band WiFi 6E Mesh System RBKE963
SEE IT

Netgear’s most powerful hardware creates a robust mesh network for fast coverage of a huge area.

Best overall Netgear Nighthawk raxe500 router roundup Netgear Nighthawk RAXE300 WiFi 6E Router
SEE IT

This powerful router offers everything many homes will need at a very reasonable price.

Best for gamers netgear nighthawk pro xr1000 roundup Netgear Nighthawk Pro Gaming WiFi 6 Router XR1000
SEE IT

Gaming-specific features allow players to tune their systems for minimal ping and maximum performance.

A router is an absolutely essential part of any home here in 2023, and Netgear routers have been delivering fast, reliable internet for the better part of three decades. They don’t slack on security, either. In 2021, the company won our Best of What’s New award in the security category for its Netgear Armor technology. And while the company offers strong products across the board, you’ll want to choose the best Netgear router to match your bandwidth, coverage, and speed needs.

Routers are essential components—they work with your modem to create a home network of interconnected devices capable of simultaneously delivering high-speed internet to all your devices. After all, what’s the point of your high-definition television if you can’t stream 4K video quickly? If your wireless connection lags, how can you stream the latest virtual reality, PC, and video games? Netgear routers use the most advanced WiFi technology to deliver low ping rates to gamers (meaning smoother gameplay), glitch-free video conferencing, and high-definition downloads with consistent, reliable speed. This buying guide explores and recommends the best Netgear routers for your home streaming needs.

How we chose the best Netgear routers

Living in a house with two remote-working adults and two obsessed teenage gamers, I know how essential it is to have reliable, fast internet that can juggle multiple devices without lag. For this buying guide, I researched over 20 models of Netgear WiFi routers. All the models I reviewed support WiFi 6 or WiFi 6E, the newest, most advanced (next-generation) WiFi, at least in a practical sense. WiFi 6 and 6E make connecting to the internet more efficient by splitting fast connections across a network of devices. As individuals and families are now connecting to more devices, this is crucial for optimal performance.

Purchasing your router, rather than renting from your internet provider, saves you monthly cash on your internet bill and allows you to select a router model ideal for your home and lifestyle. I compared models based on features like network communication speed, frequency channels, wireless signal range, security, parental controls, customer reviews, and prices. So whether you want the most powerful Netgear router on the market or a high-speed solution for your apartment, we have options to keep your home network lightning-fast and seamlessly connected.

Over several decades, I have covered innovation, tech, and business for the likes of Fast Company, Popular Science, CyberArk, and many others. I specialize in distilling complex ideas and technical data into easily consumable content, providing straightforward recommendations, advice, and explanations. 

The best Netgear routers: Reviews & Recommendations

While we offer specific recommendations for different types of users, it’s worth checking out all the entries before purchasing. There’s always some overlap between needs and models. The best Netgear router for you depends on your specific usage, living space, and needs. While you can buy Netgear routers at most major electronics retailers, many models (especially on the high end) offer a free year of the Netgear Armor security software, usually costing $99 annually.

Best overall: Netgear Nighthawk RAXE300 WiFi 6E Router

Netgear

SEE IT

Specs

  • Speed: Up to 7.8Gbps
  • Ports: Five (5) 10/100/1000 Mbps Gigabit Ethernet ports + one (1) 2.5G/1Gbps Multi-Gig port and USB 3.0 Type-C port
  • Signal Range: Up to 2,500 square feet
  • WiFi Technology: 6/6E
  • WiFi Streams: 8 simultaneous WiFi streams
  • Security: Netgear Armor and Smart Parental Controls

Pros

  • Sleek modern design
  • Six antennas deliver stronger connections with less interference
  • Netgear Armor provides an automatic shield for cybersecurity

Cons

  • Very old wireless products may take some work to get connected

The Nighthawk RAXE300 router is our choice for best overall because, for a reasonable price, it delivers an impressive spec sheet and can easily handle a larger network of devices without compromising speed. For less than $400, you’ll get a powerful router that uses WiFi 6E—delivering the fastest WiFi and the greatest capacity for your new WiFi 6E-compatible devices (such as Apple’s M2 iPad Pro, 2023 MacBook Pro, 2023 Mac mini, and lots of current high-end Android phones). By reducing data loads on the other two bands (tri-band), WiFi speeds increase for all networked devices. The futuristic design, which resembles a stealth aircraft, utilizes six pre-optimized antennas to deliver strong connections throughout your space, up to 2,500 square feet. 

This router will handle networks with multiple users, even all high-definition streaming. With eight simultaneous WiFi streams, your household can all enjoy no-lag AR/VR gaming, 4K streaming (it could handle 8K if that were a thing), and seamless video calls at the same time. Other significant features include many ports that allow for wired connections. For internet safety, this router is compatible with Netgear Armor for state-of-the-art cybersecurity. For families, parents can access Netgear smart parent control, which allows parents to manage screen time and accessibility, all with the Netgear app. If you’re a typical or semi-advanced internet user, this likely has everything you need for a very reasonable price.

Best mesh: Netgear Orbi Quad-Band WiFi 6E Mesh System

Netgear

SEE IT

Specs

  • Speed: Up to 10.8Gbps
  • Ports: Three 2.5G connections, nine 1 Gigabit Ethernet ports, 10 Gig Internet port
  • Signal Range: Up to 9,000 square feet
  • WiFi Technology: 6/6E
  • WiFi Streams: Quad-Band technology and Dedicated Backhaul WiFi
  • Security: Netgear Armor and Smart Parental Controls

Pros

  • A 3-piece WiFi system, including one router and two satellites, covers up to 9,000 square feet 
  • Get max speed connections for up to 200 devices
  • 10 Gigabit internet port allows you to connect to the fastest internet plans

Cons

  • Pricy to get started

Netgear Orbi RBKE963B Mesh system is our upgrade pick because it’s the most flexible and powerful WiFi system offered by Netgear. With up to 10.8Gbps WiFi speeds and coverage for up to a whopping 9,000 square feet, including front and back yards, this 3-piece mesh system is ready for your smart home and high-definition devices.

An attractive design, the three-piece Orbi system features 12 internal antennas, a 2.2 GHZ quad-core processor, and high-power amplifiers within each device. Style-wise, each device looks identical, but one is your router, and the other two are satellites. Each device allows for wired connections with LAN ports and gigabit ethernet jacks. While this system may offer more than you need now, as more internet companies offer higher speeds and more devices adopt WiFi 6E, this system will prepare your home network for the future.

This package includes one year of the Netgear Armor security software for free if you buy directly from Netgear. The Black Edition is also exclusive to Netgear.com so get it there if you prefer it to the white version.

Best for gamers: Netgear Nighthawk Pro Gaming WiFi 6 Router XR1000

Netgear

SEE IT

Specs

  • Speed: Up to 5.4Gbps
  • Ports: Five (5) 10/100/1000Mbps Gigabit Ethernet ports—1 WAN & 4 LAN, USB 3.0 Type-C port
  • Signal Range: Up to 2,500 square feet
  • WiFi Technology: 6
  • WiFi Streams: 6 simultaneous WiFi streams
  • Security: Netgear Armor and Smart Parental Controls

Pros

  • Fast file transfer speeds
  • Users can customize and filter game servers with Geo-Fencing
  • Ping Heatmap lets you see your connection quality to each server
  • Bandwidth Allocation—allows you to prioritize gaming devices

Cons

  • May require firmware updates to avoid delayed transmission of WiFi signal

Netgear Nighthawk Pro Gaming XR1000 router is our choice for best for gamers because of the unique features and customized controls designed specifically to enhance gameplay. This slim router features a red and black design with four antennas which helps it fit in with the aesthetics of most PC gaming accessories. You can often find this model on sale for up to $100 off its retail price, making it a very solid buy if you don’t need the WiFi 6E functionality.

Gamer-friendly features include DumaOS 3.0 software, which was built specifically for games. It reduces ping rates by up to 93% (which means less jittery gameplay and lower buffering times) and allows for lag-free online gaming. Users can maximize internet speed with custom controls that prioritize applications and devices, eliminate network congestion and enhance the gaming experience. The Geo-Filter setting helps you filter out high-ping game servers and helps you choose the server with the best connection. It takes a little work to get everything set up perfectly for your gaming, but that elbow grease will pay off when you’re lagging a lot less than your competition.

Best for small homes: Netgear Nighthawk 4-Stream AX3000 WiFi 6 Router RAX40

Netgear

SEE IT

Specs

  • Speed: Up to 3Gbps
  • Ports: Five (5) 10/100/1000 Mbps Gigabit Ethernet ports (1 WAN & 4 LAN) and USB 3.0 Type-C port
  • Signal Range: Up to 1,500 square feet
  • WiFi Technology: 6
  • WiFi Streams: 4 simultaneous WiFi streams
  • Security: Netgear Armor and Smart Parental Controls

Pros

  • Stream 4 devices with HD & 4K UHD content at the same time
  • Two external antennas help extend strong WiFi signals throughout your home
  • USB 3.0 Port allows you to backup and access stored media

Cons

  • No WiFi 6E

Netgear Nighthawk AX3000 router is our choice for best for small homes because it delivers speed up to 3Gbps and offers four simultaneous WiFi streams up to 1,500 square feet. While many specs of this router match our choice for best value, this router also delivers a higher internet speed connection at a reasonable price (again, maximized for smaller spaces).

With WiFi 6, this router efficiently delivers faster internet speed to multiple devices in your network, allowing you to stream ultra HD 4K/8K quickly. It also allows you to try out Netgear’s security services free of charge for 30 days (after which you can decide if you would like to pay to continue to use it). Netgear Armor offers a wide range of cybersecurity protections, and Netgear Smart Parent Controls allow parents to monitor and limit access to devices within the network. This reasonable price tag brings bang for your buck and will allow your family to stream multiple devices quickly and precisely.

Best for families: Netgear Nighthawk 12-Stream WiFi 6E Router RAXE500

Netgear

SEE IT

Specs

  • Speed: Up to 10.8Gbps
  • Ports: Five (5) 10/100/1000 Mbps Gigabit Ethernet ports (1 WAN & 4 LAN) + one (1) 2.5G/1Gbps Multi-Gig port, two (2) USB 3.0 ports
  • Signal Range: Up to 3,500 square feet
  • WiFi Technology: 6E
  • WiFi Streams: 12 simultaneous WiFi streams
  • Security: Netgear Armor and Smart Parental Controls

Pros

  • Tri-band offers 200% more spectrum than dual-band
  • More high-bandwidth WiFi channels
  • Ultra-low latency for an enhanced gaming experience
  • High-speed WiFi up to 10.8 Gbps

Cons

  • May be overkill for some more casual users

Netgear Nighthawk RAXE500 is our choice for best for techie families because it delivers impressive speed, can juggle multiple users, and covers up to 3,500 square feet. When you have a high-tech household, this powerful router is a great choice; it offers the same WiFi connection speed as the Orbi mesh system. The RAXE500 is under $500 on sale, making this much more comparatively affordable.

With 12 streams of WiFi 6E, your network will be able to connect multiple devices with state-of-the-art speed. A new 6GHz band offers fast speed to new WiFi 6E devices and reduces data loads with three bands (Tri-band). This high-powered router is a great option for a techie family with multiple smart devices and the latest 6E technology.

Best budget: Netgear 4-Stream WiFi 6 Router R6700AX

Netgear

SEE IT

Specs

  • Speed: Up to 1.8Gbps
  • Ports: Five (5) 10/100/1000Mpbs Gigabit Ethernet ports (1 WAN & 4 LAN)
  • Signal Range: Up to 1,500 square feet
  • WiFi Technology: 6 Technology
  • WiFi Streams: 4 simultaneous WiFi streams
  • Security: Standards-based WiFi Security, Netgear Armor, Smart Parental Controls

Pros

  • Unleash fast speed on multiple devices with WiFi 6
  • 1.5GHz Quad-Core processor for stronger streaming and gaming experience
  • Use the Nighthawk app to protect and monitor household

Cons

  • Not for larger homes, as the signal range covers up to 1,500 square feet

Netgear R6700AX router is our choice for best value because it is available for less than $100 and delivers strong connections best for smaller households. Using four streams of WiFi 6 technology, you’ll get more consistent speed and connectivity on all your network’s devices. Simultaneous dual-band allows for better connection and less interference.

Setting up your WiFi and managing your settings, speed, and security is managed through the Nighthawk app. You can also use voice control to control your network, as this router is compatible with Amazon Alexa and Google Assistant. With a lower price point, this isn’t the absolute fastest on our list, but for most average users, this affordable router will deliver the speeds they need for fast streaming, gaming, and video calls. The Nighthawk app also allows you to keep tabs on speed and performance.

Things to consider when choosing the best Netgear router

When you are in the market for a new router, there are important things to consider before purchasing. Here are some factors to remember to help you choose the best router for your home:

Compatibility with your internet provider

Before you decide on a router, check with your internet service provider to ensure the router will be compatible with your current modem.

Size of your space

Think about the size of your space and the location where you will install the router. Ideally, a router should be in the center of your home. Wireless coverage is based on square footage; more square footage covered means a more expensive router. Most people should be good with a single router, but if you have a larger space or a spread-out space, you may opt for a mesh system that offers routers and satellites to extend WiFi coverage.

Price

Routers and mesh systems vary in price from under $100 to well over $1,000, with higher-end models offering high-speed connections, more coverage area, and customizable features. 

Netgear Armor

In 2021, we awarded Netgear’s advanced network security tech our coveted Best of What’s New award in the security category. Netgear Armor monitors the network and its devices for malicious activity. Once it identifies something troubling, it addresses the problem while alerting other users and devices of the problem. That keeps you informed about security issues that may pop up on your network and fixes them before they can cause serious harm. Netgear Armor typically costs $99 annually for a subscription, but some routers on this list offer a free year if you buy directly through Netgear.com.

Hardware compatibility

The latest WiFi technology, 6 or 6E, offers significant improvements, but you should check to see if your hardware is compatible to reap the benefits. Your laptop, smartphone, and other smart home devices should also support WiFi 6/6E.

WiFi bands

Most routers are at least dual-band, supporting frequencies like 2.4 gigahertz (GHz) and 5 GHz. Other routers offer tri-band, which broadcasts three signals. Newer routers may include a 6 GHz band. WiFi bands affect speed and range. If you use a lot of smart devices, you should be aware of your WiFi bands for optimal setup.

Ports

While routers provide WiFi, they also can be hardwired with an ethernet cable for devices like PCs and TVs to ensure they operate with the fastest internet speed. Make sure you have enough ports for the devices you want to hardwire.

Security

Routers often come with cybersecurity protection and parental controls. Many of Netgear’s routers come with a free trial of Netgear Armor (internet security) and Netgear Smart Parental Controls, which will cost extra if you choose to use them.

Speed

Routers offer differing maximum speed levels; the faster the speed, the more expensive the router. However, it’s important to consider that your internet provider determines the maximum speed, so ensure you have upgraded your internet service package.

FAQs

Q: What is the most powerful Netgear router?

The most powerful Netgear router is the Orbi 960 Series Quad-Band WiFi 6E Mesh System. This router can cover up to 9,000 square feet, including front and backyards, with up to 10.8Gbps WiFi speeds. Netgear’s Quad-Band technology and dedicated backhaul WiFi allow you to connect up to 200 devices with maximum speed.

Q: What is the best Netgear router for streaming?

The best Netgear router for streaming will be high-speed, allowing you to access your content lag free. The Netgear Orbi line is a great choice for streaming; this high-end state-of-the-art router delivers speed up to 10.8Gbps, revolutionary Quad-Band mesh, and WiFi 6E technology.

Q: What is Netgear Armor?

If you want to add extra security to your network, Netgear Armor relies on Bitdefender to monitor your network and devices for malicious activity. Once it detects a bad actor, it can notify the network and all the devices thereon in seconds. This prevents the problem from propagating while the security software does its work. It costs $99 for an annual subscription, but you get a free year with select routers if you buy directly from the Netgear site.

Final thoughts regarding the best Netgear routers

Even if you have the most basic needs for internet in your home or office, choosing the right router can make a big difference in the quality time you spend on your computer or phone. The best Netgear routers run the gamut from advanced mesh network systems to basic (and rock solid) stand-alone devices that dish out a constant stream of connectivity exactly where you need it. The company’s excellent and hard-earned reputation and broad product offerings will keep the TikToks flowing for years to come.

Why trust us

Popular Science started writing about technology more than 150 years ago. There was no such thing as “gadget writing” when we published our first issue in 1872, but if there was, our mission to demystify the world of innovation for everyday readers means we would have been all over it. Here in the present, PopSci is fully committed to helping readers navigate the increasingly intimidating array of devices on the market right now.

Our writers and editors have combined decades of experience covering and reviewing consumer electronics. We each have our own obsessive specialties—from high-end audio to video games to cameras and beyond—but when we’re reviewing devices outside of our immediate wheelhouses, we do our best to seek out trustworthy voices and opinions to help guide people to the very best recommendations. We know we don’t know everything, but we’re excited to live through the analysis paralysis that internet shopping can spur so readers don’t have to.

The post The best Netgear routers for 2023 appeared first on Popular Science.

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ASUS ROG Ally review: The best way to game on the go https://www.popsci.com/gear/asus-rog-ally-review/ Mon, 22 May 2023 21:00:00 +0000 https://www.popsci.com/?p=541868
ASUS ROG Ally
Brandt Ranj / Popular Science

ASUS first handheld PC feels like the future of portable game, with one foot mired in the past.

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ASUS ROG Ally
Brandt Ranj / Popular Science

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The radical success of Valve’s Steam Deck and the Nintendo Switch has proven a deep appetite for handheld gaming exists, and competitors are popping up left and right in an attempt to take a piece of that pie. ASUS is the latest company to step up to the plate, and if it aimed to create a faster, nicer-looking, better-feeling Steam Deck, the ROG Ally is a resounding success.

The handheld PC game console, available for preorder now and will launch June 11 for $599, is fast enough to play many of the latest titles, offers a surprising amount of customization, and achieves surprising stability for a first-generation piece of hardware. Yet what holds the ROG Ally back from near-perfection is the one piece of the puzzle it couldn’t fully control: Windows.

Brandt Ranj / Popular Science

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Overview

  • The ASUS ROG Ally is the first mainstream Steam Deck competitor, and on a technical level, it bests Valve’s popular gaming handheld in almost every way.
  • The handheld’s Windows system is more versatile than a streamlined operating system like SteamOS but also increases power consumption and complexity.
  • For serious PC gamers who favor customizability and power, the ROG Ally offers the best balance of performance and price.

Pros

  • Incredible price
  • Excellent performance
  • Good battery life
  • Ergonomic design
  • Smooth-feeling analog sticks
  • Expandable storage
  • Surprisingly full-sounding speakers

Cons

  • Operating system not designed for handheld gaming
  • Can be complex to access certain settings

Verdict: The ROG Ally is the handheld gaming system to beat if you can get over the pain of Windows gaming on a portable device.

The ASUS ROG Ally build

I’ve been playing handheld game consoles since the original Game Boy, and I was immediately smitten with how the ROG Ally looked and felt out of the box. Its 7-inch screen is the same size as my Switch OLED edition and the Steam Deck. ASUS’ display is 1080P and supports refresh rates up to 120Hz instead of the 720P 60Hz panel on Nintendo and Valve’s systems. The difference in sharpness and fidelity compared to the Switch was noticeable and made up for the fact that the ROG’s great-looking LCD display isn’t quite as vibrant as an OLED screen.

PC Gaming photo
The ASUS ROG Ally and the Nintendo Switch have the same-sized screen but radically different outer cases.

An analog stick and directional pad flank the handheld system’s screen on the left side, while an analog stick and four face buttons are on the right. A pair of buttons and triggers on top of the handheld are complemented by two on the system’s backside. A headphone jack, volume controls, and power button line the system’s top, along with two vents for the fans.

This is more or less the same button configuration popularized by the Xbox 360 in 2005, which made the ROG Ally feel familiar before I even booted up a game. Four additional buttons give you quick access to common actions, like bringing up the ROG Ally’s performance options and going to a game-select screen. More importantly, the handheld feels great in hand. The angular cut-outs on the front of the device make it easy to grip, while the curves on the back contoured to my hands. ASUS designed the ROG Ally to feel good whether you’re holding it or have it propped up on a desk, and the result is a home run where ergonomics are concerned.

I was pleased—though not surprised—to see the handheld’s USB-C charging port, which ASUS opted to put on the top rather than the bottom of the system. The mass adoption of a single charging port for most electronics is one of the best recent advancements in consumer tech. The ROG Ally’s MicroSD card slot, which can be used to expand its storage to hold more games easily, is also located on top of the system, which makes it immediately and easily accessible without opening the console’s case. In general, my impressions of the hardware have been very positive.

PC Gaming photo
The ROG Ally’s top ports allow storage expansion, charging, volume control, and power.

The ASUS ROG Ally setup

ASUS did its best to ensure the ROG Ally’s setup process was as easy as possible. I was greeted with a familiar Windows 11 lock screen. Tapping the OK button—my review unit came pre-configured with a user account but no password—brought me to Microsoft’s desktop. Preinstalled software called ASUS Armoury Crate launched within seconds and brought me to a user-friendly screen where I could log into my Steam and Xbox accounts to download games from their respective digital libraries. The only real roadblock during my setup was navigating to Windows’ WiFi settings and typing in my password.

All my downloaded titles appeared as icons in Armoury Crate, making them easy to launch. This system isn’t as slick as the Switch or Steam Deck’s user interface, but those systems are only designed for gaming. The ROG Ally runs a full version of Windows, which means it could be hooked up to a monitor and be used for Google Docs and the Adobe Creative Cloud suite of applications in addition to booting up the latest PC games.

PC Gaming photo
Navigating without a mouse can sometimes be a little tricky.

Overall, the ROG Ally’s user interface is pretty user-friendly. However, it took a little time to get the hang of downloading games and navigating the Xbox Game Pass portal, which is annoying to use on a PC without a keyboard and mouse. Switching the ROG Ally from handheld to desktop mode allowed me to replicate the functionality of a mouse with the right analog stick moving the cursor, but the experience was still kind of clunky. Steam was designed to be used natively with a game controller, and I had no issues there.

Even the ROG Ally’s control panel, which can be toggled with a button press, was neatly organized. This settings menu allows you to switch between quiet, performance, and turbo modes, which automatically ratchet up the system’s processor to the detriment of its battery life. Other settings include changing the screen’s resolution between 720P and 1080P, adjusting the display’s brightness, switching between handheld and desktop modes, and other common controls. It’s clear ASUS wanted to make the ROG Ally as accessible as possible, and it succeeded.

The ASUS ROG Ally performance

I’ll be the first to admit my PC gaming needs are pretty basic, but the ROG Ally still exceeded my expectations. The older and indie titles like The Legend of Heroes: Trails In The Sky, Tales of Zestiria, Hi-Fi Rush, and Tunic all ran without a hitch using the handheld’s quiet setting. I tried more resource-intensive 3D games during my demo at an ASUS event two weeks before my review unit arrived, and those ran great, too—albeit only when the battery-sucking turbo setting was enabled. The only time I ran into trouble was trying to play Jet Grind Radio, which refused to launch no matter how many times I tried playing it. I deleted and re-downloaded it in case of a weird one-time bug, but the system didn’t play nice with SEGA’s high-octane, early-2000s title.

ASUS equipped its handheld with an eight-core Z1 processor, designed in-house explicitly for gaming. The system’s lower-end model comes with the standard Z1, which offers 2.9 teraflops of graphical performance, while the premium system’s Z1 Extreme tops out at 8.6 teraflops. There’s only a $100 difference between both configurations, and I recommend going with the higher-end one if you primarily play PC games. Casual users like myself could get away with the entry-level version without a hitch. Both ROG Ally handheld models are more powerful than the Steam Deck and blow the six-year-old Nintendo Switch out of the water.

PC Gaming photo
The high-end model of ASUS ROG Ally is powerful enough to handle any game you throw at it.

I didn’t notice any stuttering or dropped frames when playing my games, which I expected, given their modest system requirements. Still, the experience of playing games on the ROG Ally was so good it felt natural to pick up the system and play. I could hit the power button mid-game, knowing I could return to it immediately once it was time to begin my next play session. The benefit of playing smaller titles with the screen brightness at roughly 75% was I could extend the battery life pretty far. I could get about four hours of gameplay per charge, which has more to do with the inefficiency of Windows than the ROG Ally’s battery size or the energy consumption of my games. There’s simply a lot of overhead to run a game on Windows, which is a shame.

I was happier with the fact that I could play the system for several hours at a time without my hands or arms feeling fatigued. The system’s angled shape made resting the system on my thighs while curled up on the couch feel as natural as holding it in front of me. The system’s 1.34-pound weight makes it feel appreciably lighter than the Steam Deck, which comes in at 1.47 pounds. In handheld gaming, every tenth of a pound counts and can make the difference between putting the system down because you want to and pausing your game session out of necessity.

PC Gaming photo
You can manage the ROG Ally’s performance settings in one convenient location.

The ROG Ally’s Z1 processor, 16GB of LPDDR5 RAM (memory), 4GB of VRAM (video memory), and 512GB of storage gives the handheld enough overhead to future-proof it for a few years. The reality is playing a handheld PC will always be limiting because there’s only so much space for components and cooling. That said, it’s possible to play many of the latest games at high settings if you’re okay with limiting your battery life or keeping it plugged into a power source all the time.

The ASUS ROG Ally software

Every part of the ROG Ally’s experience that ASUS had direct control over is a grand slam. It’s the platonic ideal of a modern handheld gaming system, and I’m gobsmacked that the company got so much right on the first generation of a product. We’re talking original iPhone levels of hardware polish, and the design team should feel proud of the hardware’s performance, given its incredibly reasonable price.

Unfortunately, the system is hamstrung by Windows, the dominant operating system for PC gaming—and computers in general. It’s laudable that ASUS designed its Armoury Crate software to make gaming on the ROG Ally possible, but there’s no denying the system runs on a general-purpose operating system. Both the Steam Deck and Nintendo Switch boot directly into software explicitly designed for games that are optimized for optimal performance. There are no unnecessary background tasks draining power and resources—the streamlined systems can download and play games, that’s it.

PC Gaming photo
Even if you don’t see the Windows interface often, you’ll know it’s there.

There are problems ASUS can’t address or fix because of Windows, even if the versatile operating system opens the door to turning the ROG Ally into an emulation powerhouse for nostalgic gamers who want to relive their childhood alongside playing the latest PC games as they come out. But the occasional awkwardness of navigating an operating system designed for traditional peripherals rather than analog sticks and buttons was a reminder of the ROG Ally’s main limitation.

ASUS’ options to address this issue are limited. It could develop its own operating system like Valve’s SteamOS, but that would take several years and untold resources to accomplish with very limited upside. it could shop the software around to other handheld PC makers, but that would mitigate its market advantage. The company could partner with Valve to launch the system with SteamOS installed. However, that’d require them to get the operating system up and running on custom-designed hardware and disallow gamers from playing titles on Xbox Game Pass or similar streaming services.

The ASUS ROG Ally vs. Valve’s Steam Deck

Many handheld PC gamers will be deciding between the Steam Deck and a Windows-based handheld for their portable gaming; honestly, there’s no right or wrong choice. The Steam Deck has worse tech specs—most notably a sub-1080P display—and a bigger chassis, but the streamlined nature of SteamOS makes it easier to pick up and play. The ROG Ally is svelter and more powerful, but you have to deal with the complexities of Windows and its constant additional power drain. If you’re a serious PC gamer, go with the ROG Ally; if you’re more casual, the Steam Deck is the better choice. If you want to play The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom, well, get the Nintendo Switch OLED.

Final thoughts

The reason I keep harping on the downsides of Windows is that the ASUS ROG Ally is a nearly perfect piece of hardware. It’s better than all of its mainstream direct competitors and undercuts boutique handheld PC makers on price to the point of absurdity. Let me be clear: If you want to play PC games on the go, this is your best option by a long shot. But picking up the ASUS ROG Ally means dealing with the compromises of building a game console running general-purpose software. ASUS has done all it can to make the user experience as seamless as possible, but it’s hard not to think about the grand slam the company could have had if it had complete control over the hardware and software experience.

The post ASUS ROG Ally review: The best way to game on the go appeared first on Popular Science.

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Relive the classics with this retro-inspired console featuring over 600 games https://www.popsci.com/sponsored-content/retro-game-console-sale/ Sat, 20 May 2023 13:00:00 +0000 https://www.popsci.com/?p=541832
A retro-inspired gaming console on a white background
Stack Commerce

Pay only $24.99 and experience gaming nostalgia.

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A retro-inspired gaming console on a white background
Stack Commerce

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The classics evoke a unique nostalgia that cannot be replicated. Bring back memories and get the Retro-Inspired Game Console with 620 Games Pre-Loaded for only $24.99.

In an era where gaming consoles have evolved to offer advanced graphics, immersive experiences, and online multiplayer, there is a certain charm in revisiting the simplicity of retro games. Pre-loaded with over 600 memorable 1980s-1990s classic games, you’ll get a blast from the past with this easy-to-use console. Pick from various categories—action, sports, racing, and more—and enjoy your gaming time from the comfort of your couch.

With so many gaming choices pre-loaded directly into the console, there’s bound to be something for everyone, resulting in endless hours of entertainment at your next family gathering or get-together with friends. This retro device will bring back memories or show new generations the games of the past. With titles like Super Mario Bros., Pac-Man, Tetris, X-Men, and Street Fighter II, the console pays homage to gaming legends and allows players to relive the joy and challenges that made these games iconic.

Measuring 5.12 inches x 3.94 inches, the compact console offers versatility with its TV-compatible AV system. The package includes the console, two controllers, and a TV AV adapter cable for seamless TV integration. With its intuitive menu system and simple controls, players can effortlessly navigate through the vast library of games. Whether you’re a gaming enthusiast or looking for a gift for someone who loves games, this console is the ideal choice.

Verified buyer Catherine Greulich gave the console 5 out of 5 stars and wrote, “I didn’t know what to expect[,] but the game works great. Both adults and children love it! It is a great price too!”

Gear up for unfiltered access to memorable games with this jam-packed bundle.

While the Retro-Inspired Game Console with 620 Games Pre-loaded regularly sells for $27, you can purchase it for a limited time for $24.99. 

Prices subject to change. 

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Get a better glimpse of Hyrule when you take up to 40% off Samsung monitors https://www.popsci.com/gear/samsung-monitors-amazon-deal/ Tue, 16 May 2023 16:55:12 +0000 https://www.popsci.com/?p=541369
A Samsung G6 monitor on a teal and periwinkle background
Amanda Reed

Get great views of Zelda zaddies Ganondorf and Sidon with this Samsung QHD monitor that's on sale.

The post Get a better glimpse of Hyrule when you take up to 40% off Samsung monitors appeared first on Popular Science.

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A Samsung G6 monitor on a teal and periwinkle background
Amanda Reed

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You might have 20 hours logged into realistic physics masterpiece The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom, but you can’t get the full experience of diving off sky islands and running away from the creepy, hand-like Gloom Spawn if you have a subpar gaming monitor. Solve that problem and get back to saving Hyrule—and save some cash while you’re at it—with up to 40% off Samsung monitors on Amazon.

Samsung 32″ Odyssey G65B QHD Curved Gaming Monitor $499.99 (Was $799.99)

Samsung

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If you’re looking for a step up from an HD gaming monitor but don’t want to pay 4K prices, find a happy meeting in QHD, which packs 1.7 times more pixel density than full HD. A 240Hz refresh rate means you’ll be able to fire off arrows at lickety-split speeds, and a 1000R curve gives you some ergonomics while you spend hours looking for Korok seeds.

Thankfully, if you’re looking just to upgrade your office monitor, Samsung has you covered there as well. The company’s 27-inch S39C monitor is ergonomically curved and on sale for $199.99, down from $269.99.

And don’t forget to pick up an HDMI cable to make a master connection so you can get that Master Sword. Ultimately, seeing is believing, and you’ll be happy you tried a monitor when questing for the Triforce. Don’t wait to add one to your inventory.

Here are more Samsung monitor deals to look at:

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The best vertical monitors in 2023 https://www.popsci.com/gear/best-vertical-monitors/ Tue, 14 Jun 2022 12:00:00 +0000 https://www.popsci.com/?p=448989
The best vertical monitors composited
Stan Horaczek

Take a head-to-toe look at our vertical monitor picks.

The post The best vertical monitors in 2023 appeared first on Popular Science.

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The best vertical monitors composited
Stan Horaczek

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Best overall The LG UltraGear 27GN650-B works delivers solid gaming specs and high performance for a rotating display. LG UltraGear 27GL83A-B
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The LG UltraGear 27GN650-B works delivers solid gaming specs and high performance for a rotating display.

Best for gaming The Asus VG248QG gives you competitive speed at a very low price. Asus VG248QG
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The Asus VG248QG gives you competitive speed at a very low price.

Best for coding Computer programmers don’t have to choose between productivity and comfort with the BenQ PD2700U. BenQ PD2700U
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Computer programmers don’t have to choose between productivity and comfort with the BenQ PD2700U.

Add a vertical monitor to your setup and you can drastically improve the way you work and game. If you’re crunched for space or primarily use it as a secondary display to show a long, scrolling website like Twitter or Facebook, the best vertical monitors give you useful options for optimizing your setup.

Rotating a display from landscape to portrait mode can convey ergonomic benefits as well. In vertical (or portrait mode) you aren’t moving your eyes, head, and neck from left to right as much. Less movement results in a more comfortable viewing experience. Plus, it’s easier to scroll up and down than from left to right (don’t take my word for it, look at the scrolling design of your mouse!).

Vertical monitors are still a relatively new concept, so it’s not a standard feature. It’s also only one part of the display: You still need to judge core elements like resolution, size, and refresh rate, to name a few. Realistically, you don’t need top specs if you’re looking for a secondary screen to flip. Still, the best vertical monitors do more than just rotate, and here are our picks to add this extra efficiency feature into your workflow. 

How we chose the best vertical monitors

As a freelance journalist for over 10 years, I’ve reviewed home and tech products for many publications, including Popular Science, CNN Underscored, NBC News Select, Popular Mechanics, Architectural Digest, Tom’s Guide, The Daily Beast, USA Today’s Reviewed, Apartment Therapy, The Spruce, and Bob Vila. Our vertical monitor selections are based on personal testing, extensive research, recommendations from experts and fellow critics, and user impressions.

The best vertical monitors: Reviews & Recommendations

Vertical monitors are still a relatively new concept, so it isn’t a universal feature. That said, there are plenty of great ones at various price points with wildly varying specs. Some have a better framerate, and others have a better response time. They also vary in size and price. However, at least one of these monitors should have everything you need, whether you’re rotating your primary display or keeping a secondary screen permanently vertical on the side.

Best overall: LG UltraGear 27GL83A-B

Buy it used or refurbished: eBay

Why it made the cut: For the price, this monitor combines the best features and also has plenty of inputs.

Specs

  • Size: 27-inch
  • Resolution: 2560 x 1440
  • Refresh rate: 144Hz
  • Response time: 1ms
  • Ports:  2 x HDMI 2.0, USB 3.0, DisplayPort 1.4, 3.5mm Audio

Pros

  • Clear, impressive image
  • Adjustable height and angle
  • Plenty of inputs
  • Anti-glare coating

Cons

  • No built-in speakers

The LG UltraGear 27GL83A-B Monitor has the perfect number of features without costing an arm and a leg. The generous 27-inch 1440p monitor provides plenty of screen real estate and great viewing angles, whether you’re viewing it vertically or horizontally. It’s good for both work and gaming, with a 144Hz refresh rate and 1ms response time. There are also many inputs, including two HDMI 2.0, DisplayPort 1.4, USB 3.0, and a 3.5mm audio jack. Last but not least, it also offers nice adjustability: Both the stand’s height and the monitor’s angle can be adjusted, and the stand has a cable holder in the back. 

Best for gaming: ASUS VG248QG

ASUS

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Buy it used or refurbished: eBay

Why it made the cut: For a sub-$200 monitor, the Asus VG248QG gives you incredible speedy specs, including 165Hz refresh rate and a 0.5ms response time.

Specs

  • Size: 24-inch
  • Resolution: 1920 x 1080
  • Refresh rate: 165Hz
  • Response time: 0.5ms
  • Ports: HDMI 1.4, DVID, DisplayPort 1.2, headphone jack, Audio In

Pros

  • High refresh rate
  • Tilts, swivels, height adjustable
  • Numerous inputs
  • Eye care

Cons

  • No built-in speakers

We’re beyond impressed with the ASUS VG248QG. It features some strong specs for a gaming monitor that costs less than $200, including a 165Hz refresh rate and a 0.5ms response time. The 24-inch display features a stand that rotates, tilts, swivels, and features height adjustment options, making it an ergonomic choice. It also features eye-strain protections, including an anti-glare screen and blue light filter. Throw in Nvidia G-Sync compatibility to minimize your screen tearing and you’ve got a very solid gaming monitor for a very nice price. 

Best for coding: BenQ PD2700U

BenQ

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Buy it used or refurbished: Amazon

Why it made the cut: With 4K resolution, dual control, and three viewing modes, the BenQ PD2700U lets coders and other professionals maximize their work time and space.

Specs

  • Size: 27-inch
  • Resolution: 3840 x 2160 (4K)
  • Refresh rate: 60Hz
  • Response time: 5ms
  • Ports: HDMI 1.4, 2 x DisplayPort 1.4, 4 x USB 3.0 ports, 2 x USB Type-B, 3.5mm audio

Pros

  • Excellent image, brightness, and colors
  • Dual view and dual control
  • Swivel, tilt, and adjust height
  • 3 viewing modes
  • Eye care features

Cons

  • No built-in speakers

The BenQ PD27000U does double duty as a great vertical monitor for programmers and a great choice for creative pros looking to avoid spending a fortune. The larger 27-inch 4K panel makes it easier to see small details, but it’s really the display’s strong color accuracy—100% sRGB and 100% Rec.709 color—that keeps creative projects looking sharp.

There are three specialty settings for different types of creative work: A darkroom mode for photographers, CAD/CAM mode for designers, and an animation mode that highlights dark spaces without reducing color accuracy. It also features a dual-view mode, which lets you view an image in two images side-by-side, or a single image in two different specialty modes.

It also comes with a built-in Keyboard Video Mouse (KVM) switch, which lets you use the same keyboard and mouse to control two different laptops feeding into the monitor. It also features anti-glare, blue light filters, and a flicker-free setting to reduce eye strain.

Best for streaming: Dell 25 Gaming Monitor (S2522HG)

Dell

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Buy it used or refurbished: eBay

Why it made the cut: With a 240Hz refresh rate, crystal clear picture, and ambient lighting, the Dell S2522HG makes it easy to see what you’re doing and put your best foot forward.

Specs

  • Size: 25-inch
  • Resolution: 1920 x 1080
  • Refresh rate: 240Hz
  • Response time: 1ms
  • Ports: 2 x HDMI 2.0 ports, DisplayPort 1.2, 5 x USB 3.2 ports, 3.5mm headphone jack

Pros

  • Clear, colorful images
  • Super fast
  • Ambient lighting
  • Lots of ports

Cons

  • No built-in speakers

The Dell S2522HG is a very affordable, very fast gaming monitor with features that make it a strong pick for streamers. The 25-inch 1080p IPS panel features strong color accuracy, making it a good fit for content creation. With an esports-grade 240Hz refresh rate and 1ms response time allow for snappy gameplay. It also features ComfortView blue light reduction, which helps you avoid eye strain from blue light when you’re streaming for a long time. 

It’s also a very adjustable monitor, with swivel, tilt, and height adjustment options on the stand. Last, but not least, it has a ton of ports, including two HDMI 2.0 ports, DisplayPort 1.2, five USB 3.2 ports, which will come in handy as your streaming setup expands.

Best 4K: Philips Brilliance 279P1

Philips Computer Monitors

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Buy it used or refurbished: eBay

Why it made the cut: The Philips Brilliance 279P1 is a slick, affordable 4K USB-C display.

Specs

  • Size: 27-inch
  • Resolution: 3840 x 2160 (4K)
  • Refresh rate: 60Hz
  • Response time: 4ms
  • Ports: 2 x HDMI 2.0, DisplayPort 1.4, USB-C, 4 x USB 3.0, 3.5mm audio out, Ethernet

Pros

  • Stunning images
  • Supports USB-C connection, which charges laptops
  • Built-in Speakers
  • Swivel, tilt, and also adjust the stand’s height  

Cons

  • 4K is overkill for most vertical applications

Certain features usually push the price of a monitor sky-high. The ability to connect a PC via USB-C is one, as is offering 4K resolution. It is impressive, then, that the Philips Brilliance 279P1 offers both for less than $500. While not cheap, it’s a very solid value for both features. The 279P1 provides extremely clear, extremely detailed images and features an “Easy Read” setting that increases contrast and adjusts brightness for reading text files. The monitor is height adjustable and also tilts and swivels. Inputs include two HDMI ports, in addition to DisplayPort, four USB ports, an Ethernet port, and a 3.5mm audio out.

Best portable monitor: KYY K3

KYY

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Buy it used or refurbished: eBay

Why it made the cut: The KYY K3 is an easy-to-use portable display for when you need a vertical monitor away from home.

Specs

  • Size: 15.6-inch
  • Resolution: 1920 x 1080
  • Refresh rate: 60Hz
  • Response time: N/A
  • Ports: Mini HDMI, 2 x USB-C, 3.5mm audio in

Pros

  • Lightweight
  • Cover serves as a stand
  • Built-in speakers

Cons

  • Limited ports

If you need a portable monitor that you can toss in your bag and that works well in vertical mode with any additional support, we recommend the KYY 15.6-inch Portable Monitor. It’s small—lighter than an iPad—but still outputs at 1080p like most of the full-size monitors on our list. It connects via HDMI or USB-C to connect your laptop, smartphone, or game console. Though the monitor comes with a smart cover that doubles as a stand for landscape mode, the KYY K3 also works as a portrait, or vertical, display.

Best budget: HP VH240a

Buy it used or refurbished: eBay

Why it made the cut: If you plan to set a monitor vertically and leave it that way, the HP VH240a does everything you need and doesn’t cost much.

Specs

  • Size: 24-inch
  • Resolution: 1920 x 1080
  • Refresh rate: 60Hz
  • Response time: 5ms
  • Ports: HDMI, VGA

Pros

  • Great price
  • Built-in speakers
  • Height adjustable

Cons

  • No DisplayPort

The HP VH240a is a stellar monitor to buy specifically for a permanent vertical setup. For less than $200, about as little as you can spend on a new monitor, you’ll get a decent 1080p productivity display with a highly adjustable stand and slim bezels. Obviously, any recommendation in this price range comes with caveats. Aside from baseline specs, the VH240a cannot connect to your PC via DisplayPort, which may be a non-starter for some people.

What to consider when picking one of the best vertical monitors

The concept of a “vertical monitor” is kind of a misnomer. Most monitors, our selections included, aren’t explicitly designed to be used in landscape orientation. On top of that, most people aren’t going to use their primary display in a vertical orientation. For most people, including some of PopSci’s staff, your vertical monitor is the secondary screen that you turn for Slack or Twitter or whatever you prefer.

Given that, the best vertical monitors are usually budget-friendly generalist displays. You don’t need a high refresh rate for a vertical monitor. You usually don’t need 4K resolution or the most precise color accuracy. Obviously, those things never hurt, but all we’re really looking for is a decent display that can turn on its stand but would also work well as your primary monitor.

Size

Size is more important than usual with vertical monitors, as much of the speed and color accuracy-related matter considerably less when you plan to use a monitor vertically. Picking a larger monitor will also allow you to see your vertically-oriented content more easily at glance. If you’re looking at real-time analytics or audio levels, a bigger display makes it easier to see small nuances quickly.

If you’re in a tight space, don’t forget that your monitor’s dimensions change drastically when rotated vertically. If you have a monitor that’s 27 inches wide and 14 inches tall, the monitor will be 13 inches higher when you flip it. Also, keep in mind that you may need to adjust your chair to view the monitor comfortably if you’re adding a second monitor for the first time. If you need a more dynamic space to make sure everything lines up, we recommend looking for an adjustable standing desk or a monitor arm to give yourself more flexibility.

Resolution

Resolution refers to how many pixels your monitor displays on-screen, horizontally and vertically. These numbers determine the quality of the image displayed on the monitor. Most modern monitors come in one of three standard resolutions: 

1920 x 1080, also called 1080p or Full HD, is the baseline resolution for smaller and less expensive displays. We recommend 1080p displays for 24-inch monitors and work-from-home setups. In most cases, 1080p will be the best choice for a vertical monitor.

2560 x 1440, commonly known as 1440p or Quad HD, is a sharper resolution. Popular Science often refers to 1440p as a “sweet spot” for gaming monitors, as it allows players with mid-range or powerful gaming PCs to play many games at higher frame rates.

3840 x 2160, or 4K UHD for short, is the highest resolution you’ll see on a monitor. Unlike TVs, 4K resolution is definitely considered a luxury in a monitor. Unless you want the best image quality possible, 4K is overkill most of the time. If you’re planning to buy a very big monitor, 32 inches or larger, you might want to consider 4K to keep the picture looking as sharp as possible.

Refresh rate and response time

A monitor’s refresh rate, measured in Hertz (Hz), tells you how many times your screen can update what’s happening on screen each second. Most productivity monitors feature a refresh rate at 60Hz, which works perfectly well for web browsing, word processing, and other everyday computing. If you’re a gamer, streamer, or doing intensive photo and video editing and you don’t want a highly specialized (and probably noticeably more expensive) monitor, we recommend picking a gaming monitor—particularly one with a 144Hz refresh rate, which allows for smoother animation.

Response time refers to the very small amount of input lag that your monitor introduces in sending actions from your keyboard or mouse to your computer, and then to your screen. Response time is a minor concern for most productivity monitors, including a vertical monitor. It is primarily a concern in competitive gaming. When looking at gaming monitors, we suggest looking for at least a 1ms response time, which is very common.

Connectivity

Before picking up a monitor, ensure it has the appropriate number of ports or inputs for your devices. Most modern monitors feature HDMI and DisplayPort connections to connect to a computer. Many also have USB ports to connect and charge additional devices. If you’re using an old PC, remember that you may need an adapter to connect over older connections like DVI.

Other features

By definition, all of the vertical monitors on our list can be rotated vertically. However, you may also find it important to adjust the monitor’s height or tilt it as well, which some stands allow and others do not. Likewise, some, but not all, monitors come with built-in speakers to play music or a built-in webcam.

FAQs 

Q: Can any monitor be used vertically?

According to Carl Prouty, a technologist at Abt Electronics in Glenview, Ill., most monitors can be used in a vertical format. “However,” Prouty said, “only some monitors come with stands that allow you to rotate them, while others will require a special wall or desk mount to be used vertically.”

Q: Are vertical monitors worth it?

“If you do a lot of word processing or coding, they can be helpful, but not mandatory,” Prouty said. “Many times, people with two-monitor setups will have one in a vertical position for emailing, coding, or typing word documents, and the other in a horizontal position to be used for researching subject material.”

Q: Can you use a curved monitor vertically?

“You can use a curved monitor vertically, but it’s not ideal,” Prouty said. “The benefits of a curved monitor are found when it’s positioned horizontally, and because they are typically more expensive, you wouldn’t be getting your money’s worth if it was in a vertical setup.”

Final thoughts on the best vertical monitors

Flipping a monitor 90 degrees to give yourself some scrolling room can be very useful, whether you’re looking at social media, coding, or reading long documents. If you’re buying a monitor with a vertical setup in mind, remember that it’s very easy to go overboard on the specs. You really don’t need a high refresh rate, 4K resolution, or best-in-class color accuracy for most of the applications where a vertical monitor makes the most sense.

Why trust us

Popular Science started writing about technology more than 150 years ago. There was no such thing as “gadget writing” when we published our first issue in 1872, but if there was, our mission to demystify the world of innovation for everyday readers means we would have been all over it. Here in the present, PopSci is fully committed to helping readers navigate the increasingly intimidating array of devices on the market right now.

Our writers and editors have combined decades of experience covering and reviewing consumer electronics. We each have our own obsessive specialties—from high-end audio to video games to cameras and beyond—but when we’re reviewing devices outside of our immediate wheelhouses, we do our best to seek out trustworthy voices and opinions to help guide people to the very best recommendations. We know we don’t know everything, but we’re excited to live through the analysis paralysis that internet shopping can spur so readers don’t have to.

The post The best vertical monitors in 2023 appeared first on Popular Science.

Articles may contain affiliate links which enable us to share in the revenue of any purchases made.

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The best monitors for PS4 in 2023 https://www.popsci.com/reviews/best-monitors-for-ps4/ Mon, 23 May 2022 17:00:00 +0000 https://www.popsci.com/?p=444695
Best monitors for PS4 sliced header
Stan Horaczek

Go beyond the 4K TV in your living room and find the best monitors for PlayStation 4.

The post The best monitors for PS4 in 2023 appeared first on Popular Science.

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Best monitors for PS4 sliced header
Stan Horaczek

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Best overall Asus ROG Swift PG27UQ is the best monitor for PS4. Asus ROG Swift
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The Asus ROG Swift is expensive but offers one of the best experiences at this size.

Best budget Acer CB242Y is the best budget monitor for PS4. Acer CB242Y
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It’s small at just 24 inches, but the Acer CB242Y is a solid monitor that offers a vibrant picture and solid contrast.

Best 4K monitor Acer Nitro XV282K is the best 4K monitor for PS4 Pro. Acer Nitro XV282K
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The Acer Nitro XV282K features a 28-inch 4K IPS display, 144Hz refresh rate, and all the ports you need.

Whether you’re planning to stream on Twitch, or simply don’t have a ton of space, sometimes it makes sense to play your consoles on a monitor instead of a TV. If your console of choice is the quasi-retired PlayStation 4, you can get a monitor that suits your needs for a very affordable price. Whether you have a standard PS4 or the 4K-capable PS4 Pro, these are the best monitors for PS4.

How we picked the best monitors for PS4

I’ve been writing about TVs, monitors, and PC gaming for the past 10 years, and keep up with new advances in the industry. Between my work at PopSci and writing for TechnoBuffalo, I’ve also tested gaming monitors from many manufacturers over the years.

To select the best monitors for PS4, I drew on my own personal testing experience, as well as reviews from experts specializing in display technology and impressions from consumers. Our top monitors offer the best overall value with a strong balance between refresh rate and price.

The best monitors for PS4: Reviews & Recommendations

You don’t need a great gaming monitor to get the most of your PS4—you only need 1080p/60Hz. The best monitors for PS4, we believe, go beyond that standard so you can get solid budget or mid-level performance on PC as well, without forcing you to spend more money than you need for an ideal gaming experience on your console of choice.

Best overall: Asus ROG Swift PG32UQX

ASUS

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Buy it used or refurbished: eBay

Why it made the cut: The Asus ROG Swift PG32UQX features a 32-inch 4K display and a peak brightness of 1,400 nits.

Specs

  • Resolution: 3840×2160
  • Refresh Rate: 144Hz
  • Size: 32-inch
  • Ports: 3 x HDMI 2.0, DisplayPort 1.4
  • Panel Type: IPS
  • HDR: HDR10

Pros

  • Big, sharp picture
  • Ample ports
  • HDR

Cons

  • Very expensive

The Asus ROG Swift PG32UQX is a top-flight gaming monitor for any console, not just PS4. The 32-inch 4K display supports a 144Hz refresh rate and a peak brightness of 1,400 nits, so you’ll really get the full effect of HDR. This monitor features a mini-LED backlight, unlike the other monitors on this list, and features a max brightness of 500 nits. The biggest downside is the monitor is a little large at 32 inches, so if you’re sitting up close, the PS4’s 1080p output might not look amazing. Still, your eyes might not care after getting blasted with 1,400 nits of Bloodborne.

Best 4K monitor: Acer Nitro XV282K

Acer

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Buy it used or refurbished: eBay

Why it made the cut: The Acer Nitro XV282K features a 28-inch 4K IPS display, 144Hz refresh rate, and all the ports you need.

Specs

  • Resolution: 3480×2160
  • Refresh Rate: 144Hz
  • Size: 28-inch
  • Ports: 2 x HDMI 2.1, DisplayPort 1.2, 4 x USB
  • Panel Type: IPS
  • HDR: VESA DisplayHDR 400

Pros

  • 4K resolution
  • VESA DisplayHDR 400
  • HDMI 2.1

Cons

  • Expensive

With a 28-inch 4K IPS display, 144Hz refresh rate, and two HDMI 2.1 ports, the Acer Nitro XV282K is overkill for the PS4. It’s a much better match for the PS4 Pro or PS5, the latter of which is capable of gaming at 4K 120Hz. Like our budget pick, the Nitro XV282K has an adjustable stand and supports a 1ms response time. It also features two HDMI 2.1 ports, so you can enjoy the benefits of the new standard if you upgrade to a PS5 or Xbox Series X.

Best curved monitor: AOC C27G2Z

AOC

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Buy it used or refurbished: eBay

Why it made the cut: The AOC C27G2Z features a 1500R curve, plenty of ports, and FreeSync support.

Specs

  • Resolution: 1920×1080
  • Refresh Rate: 240Hz
  • Size: 27-inch
  • Ports: 2 x HDMI 2.0, DisplayPort 1.2
  • Panel Type: IPS
  • HDR: No

Pros

  • Curved display
  • Ample ports
  • 240Hz refresh rate
  • 0.5ms response time

Cons

  • No HDR

Curved displays aren’t for everyone, since they force you to sit directly front and center, but the AOC C27G2Z makes a strong case for checking one out. The 27-inch VA 1080p display has a 1500R curvature, 240Hz refresh rate, and 0.5Ms response time. It’s also Freesync compatible and includes two HDMI 2.0 ports, so you can plug in your PS4 and PC. There’s no HDR and the display is fairly dim at 250 nits, but the 27-inch curved display offers a sharp, immersive experience.

Best budget: Acer CB242Y

Acer

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Buy it used or refurbished: eBay

Why it made the cut: The Acer CB242Y offers a great 24-inch IPS panel and a fantastic adjustable stand that’s height adjustable and can pivot 90 degrees.

Specs

  • Resolution: 1920×1080
  • Refresh Rate: 75Hz
  • Size: 24-inch
  • Ports: HDMI, VGA
  • Panel Type: IPS
  • HDR: No

Pros

  • Small and lightweight
  • Adjustable stand
  • Slim display bezels

Cons

  • 250 nit brightness

The Acer CB242Y may seem on the small side at 24 inches, but it’s a perfectly good size for a 1080p display, especially when it’s sitting within arm’s reach on your desk. The 1080p, IPS panel offers great color-accuracy and decent contrast. Normally, its 75Hz refresh rate would disqualify it from consideration, but it’s just the right speed for the PS4. The monitor also supports FreeSync technology, which helps eliminate screen tearing on PC, although the PS4 doesn’t support the feature.

The best part about the Acer CB242Y is its stand, which is height adjustable and can tilt, swivel, and pivot 90 degrees. The stand makes it easy to adjust the monitor for the best possible viewing experience.

What to look for when choosing the best monitors for PS4

Standard specs for monitors have evolved significantly since the PS4 launched in 2013. Models at every price point support faster refresh rates, higher resolutions, and better display technology. As such, the best gaming monitors available sport specs well beyond the PS4’s capabilities.

The standard PS4 aims to run games in 1080p at 60 frames per second over an HDMI 2.0a connection, which enables high dynamic range (HDR). The more powerful PS4 Pro features support for 4K at 60fps, with support for HDMI 2.0b. In both cases, you have a very specific cap on what your console can do, so it pays to get a monitor that’s just powerful enough to meet those needs.

Size and resolution

When we talk about monitor size, we’re referring to the diagonal length of the screen, from corner to corner, in inches. Resolution refers to the number of pixels on the screen (width by height). Although the PS4 supports a max resolution of 1920×1080 (Full HD), some monitors support 2560×1440 (Quad HD) and 3840×2160 (Ultra HD).

When choosing a monitor, it’s important to remember that the size and resolution are inherently connected when generating a clear picture. A monitor’s size and resolution are linked because the image quality can suffer depending on the combination you get. A large monitor with a low resolution can look blurry, particularly when sitting close.

Since the PS4’s top resolution is 1080p, you’ll want to choose a monitor on the smaller side. We recommend picking up a monitor with a display that’s 27 inches or under; otherwise, your games may not look as sharp as they would on a smaller screen. If you have a PS4 Pro and want to play in 4K, we recommend going all out and getting a large monitor—32 inches or more. 

One last thing to keep in mind: Neither the PS4 nor the PS4 Pro support 2560 x 1440 resolution, also known as 1440p or Quad HD. If you’re buying a monitor specifically to play PS4 games, you should avoid buying a 1440p monitor as a reach for the PS4 or a compromise pick for the PS4 Pro.

Refresh rate

Refresh rate, measured in Hertz (Hz), refers to the number of times your monitor can draw and redraw what’s happening on the screen. It’s been a core feature of monitors for years and has only gotten more advanced. Some monitors today top out at 360Hz, which is far more than what a PS4 can support. The higher the frame rate, the smoother the animations. If you play online games like Call of Duty: Vanguard, a higher refresh rate will help you respond more quickly to the action taking place.

Usually, we recommend players buy a gaming monitor with a top refresh rate of 144Hz, which allows players to run most games with uncapped frame rates on a powerful PC. That said, PS4 supports a refresh rate up to only 60fps, so you won’t need a monitor that supports anything higher. (This is especially helpful on the PS4 Pro since many 4K monitors max out at 60Hz.)

There is one extra wrinkle here. The now 18-month-old PlayStation 5 can play some games in 4K resolution at 120fps. If you’re planning to upgrade to the new console in the near future—supplies permitting—it may make sense to buy a 4K monitor with a 144Hz refresh rate. For more advice on futureproofing, check out our guide to the best monitors for PS5.

Panel type

Most monitors use Liquid Crystal Display (LCD) panels lit by LED backlights, and there are a few different types to choose from that offer various levels of quality. For this roundup, we focused on two panel types used most often by display manufacturers: vertical alignment, or VA, and in-plane switching, or IPS.

Monitors with IPS panels offer the best color performance among its peers, often providing 95% or higher of DCI-P3, the widest color gamut used in the film industry. They also tend to bring black levels to their most extreme, making it difficult to distinguish details in dark scenes.

VA panels offer excellent contrast, refresh rates, and response times. They also provide impressive colors, often reaching the Adobe RGB color gamut. Due to the remarkable contrast ratio of VA panels, they work well with HDR content. That said, VA panels tend to have poor viewing angles, so you want to sit directly in front of them to get the best experience.

High dynamic range (HDR)

High dynamic range, or HDR, is a display technology that allows a monitor or TV to show greater detail in scenes with higher contrast. Imagine a game that needs to show dim and bright light simultaneously. With HDR, a monitor can accurately show details in challenging light scenarios and offer richer, more vibrant colors.

The PS4 supports HDR10, an open standard for the tech common among TVs. It calls for screen brightness of up to 1,000 nits. While HDR has been a common feature in TVs for years now, it’s less common in monitors. Generally, monitors that support HDR offer only basic HDR performance, which may be due to the monitor’s limited brightness and lack of local dimming technology, which can dim specific parts of a screen. Generally speaking, you need a brighter screen for HDR to work well—a dim screen will not be able to differentiate between high- and low-lit areas at the same time.

While comparing monitors, you may notice that some monitors list support for HDR according to the VESA DisplayHDR certification program, rather than mentioning HDR10 or Dolby Vision, the most common choices among TVs. The Video Electronics Standards Association, or VESA, ranks HDR performance from best to worst: 1400, 1000, 600, 500, and 400. Often, cheaper monitors with support for HDR will fall on the lower end of the spectrum with a rating of 400. For the best HDR experience while gaming, you want a monitor that offers VESA DisplayHDR 600 or above.

Lastly, since great 1080p monitors with HDR support and high brightness are rare and often expensive, it’s worth noting that not all PS4 games support HDR. Push Square has a list of HDR-compatible PS4 games, which is long but focused on AAA games from the second half of the PS4’s lifespan. Only select games available for PS4 support HDR, including Red Dead Redemption 2 and The Last of Us 2. You may need to enable it on the console and in the game you’re playing to use the feature.

FAQs

Q: Does PS4 support DisplayPort?

No, the PS4 doesn’t support DisplayPort. The PS4 connects to monitors via an HDMI 1.4 port. Technically, you can connect a PS4 to a monitor’s DisplayPort using an active HDMI-to-DisplayPort adapter. They’re reasonably priced and easy to use, but may disable HDR support.

Q: Should I use a TV or monitor for PS4?

There’s no right or wrong way to play the PS4. Both monitors and TVs will provide you with an enjoyable experience. The choice comes down to price, size, and where you plan to play games. If you prefer to sit back on the couch while gaming, then a TV is the better option. A monitor can be helpful if you’re trying to stream on Twitch through a PC, or if you prefer a desk-based gaming setup. Both are viable options and will produce an excellent picture.

Q: Can any monitor work with PS4?

Any monitor with an HDMI 2.0 port and either speakers or a means of connecting an audio source should work with the PS4. For very old monitors, you may need an HDMI-to-VGA adapter or HDMI to DVI adapter to output video. If your monitor doesn’t have speakers or a 3.5mm headphone jack, you can connect a gaming headset to your PS4 or plug in speakers to the console’s optical port.

Realistically, if your monitor doesn’t have an HDMI port, we would recommend looking into an upgrade.

Q: Does PS4 support 144Hz?

No, the PS4 supports a maximum refresh rate of 60Hz. Even with a 144Hz monitor, your games should run between 30-60Hz. That said, we still generally recommend 144Hz gaming monitors for most players. It will still run your PS4 games at the highest possible framerate, and keeps the door open for better performance on PS5, Xbox Series X, and PC.

Final thoughts on the best monitors for PS4

Almost every monitor we researched had the basic specs necessary to make the PS4 shine. Most great monitors far exceed the console’s simple resolution and frame rate needs. Unless you care strongly about high dynamic range, you have a wide array of worthy choices. That said, if you’re buying a new monitor to pair with a PS4, it wouldn’t hurt to choose something with an eye toward what can also get the most out of a PS5.

The post The best monitors for PS4 in 2023 appeared first on Popular Science.

Articles may contain affiliate links which enable us to share in the revenue of any purchases made.

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The best routers for Spectrum of 2023 https://www.popsci.com/gear/best-routers-for-spectrum/ Mon, 27 Jun 2022 16:00:00 +0000 https://www.popsci.com/?p=452202
The best routers for Spectrum
Stan Horaczek

Make the most out of your internet by supplying your own router for your Spectrum service.

The post The best routers for Spectrum of 2023 appeared first on Popular Science.

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The best routers for Spectrum
Stan Horaczek

We may earn revenue from the products available on this page and participate in affiliate programs. Learn more ›

Best overall Netgear Nighthawk Cable Modem Wi-Fi Router Combo Netgear Nighthawk Cable Modem Wi-Fi Router Combo
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This modem-router combination takes the guesswork out of Spectrum compatibilty.

Best cyber secure Gryphon AC3000 Gryphon AC3000
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Hackers are no match for this protective router.

Best budget TP-Link AC1750 TP-Link AC1750
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Lots of expensive features are packed into this budget-friendly router.

If you work from home—and you’re a Charter Communications customer—you know there’s a huge difference between a bad router and the best routers for Spectrum internet. A bad router means long wait times talking to customer service, annoyingly slow load speeds, and a pixelated presence on work video calls. Choosing the best router for work, play, and just surfing the web makes life easier—and reduces the amount of low to no bandwidth-induced headaches you might get. 

How we chose the best routers for Spectrum

We know how important a strong Wi-Fi connection is to effortless, lag-free gaming and streaming high-quality lossless audio. I personally have made the mistake of not doing my research before buying a router—would not recommend spending a few days Wi-Fi-less and with my own thoughts. To prevent you from facing a similar situation, we looked to personal testing, peer recommendations, critical reviews, and user impressions to find the best Spectrum routers.

The best routers for Spectrum: Reviews & Recommendations

The best routers for Spectrum can handle everything, whether it’s a day full of video meetings, nights scrolling TikTok, intense gaming sessions, or streaming lengthy explainer videos on YouTube. These are our top picks.

Best overall: Netgear Nighthawk Cable Modem Wi-Fi Router Combo

Why it made the cut: You don’t have to worry about purchasing a separate modem with this trusted combination device.

Specs

  • Data transfer rate: 1,900 Mbps
  • Coverage: 1,800 square feet
  • Plan speed compatibility: Up to 400 Mbps
  • Parental controls: Yes
  • Ports: Four 1-gigabit Ethernet ports; one USB 2.0 port

Pros

  • Easy installation
  • Independent channels for 2.4 GHz and 5.0 GHz
  • Warrants fast, reliable internet. 

Cons 

  • Slow return on investment
  • No support for Wi-Fi 6

The Netgear Nighthawk proves that two is better than one: This router also features a built-in modem, meaning you don’t have to shop for a Spectrum-compatible modem. This router covers 1,800 square feet for up to 30 devices and is compatible with Spectrum speed plans up to 400 Mbps. It includes separate networks for 2.4 GHz and 5.0 GHz bands, meaning you can organize your devices based on band level. You can plug in gaming consoles and computers to Ethernet thanks to four one-gigabit Ethernet ports, and can share storage with a connected device using the USB port. The router supports Wi-Fi 4 and 5 but does not support Wi-Fi 6. It features a WPA2-PSK security protocol, which is secure enough to protect your home without an enterprise authentication server—simply provide an 8- to 62-character-long passphrase to encrypt your network. However, it will take some time to see a return on your investment with the Nighthawk. Multiple reviews note that owners’ internet speed and performance were improved after setup, making the purchase worth it.

Best for gaming: ASUS AX5700 Wi-Fi 6 Gaming Router

ASUS

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Why it made the cut: Reduced lag and latency are a tap away thanks to the router’s game mode and support for Wi-Fi 6. 

Specs

  • Data transfer rate: 5700 Mbps
  • Coverage: 2,500 square feet
  • Plan speed compatibility: 1 Gbps
  • Parental controls: Yes
  • Ports: two 3.2 USB ports; one 2.5 G WAN/LAN port; one WAN port; four Ethernet ports

Pros

  • Fiber internet compatible
  • Easy installation
  • Plenty of LAN ports for devices if need be

Cons 

  • Upright design can hinder placement 

We are no strangers to the ASUS AX5700—we’ve previously named it the best all-purpose gaming router. And it is compatible with Spectrum’s Internet Gig plan, which can handle up to 1 Gpbs, making it a perfect addition to this list. It’s Wi-Fi 6 compatible and includes MU-MIMO functionality for increased speed and security. Download the ASUS Router app to turn on the mobile game mode, which reduces lag and latency for back-to-back Victory Royales. AiMesh support allows you to bring seamless, interruption-free coverage to your home—and, considering the price of mesh routers, that makes this one a steal. Hackers will be KO’d thanks to free lifetime access to ASUS AiProtection Pro, which includes WPA3 protection—the latest Wi-Fi security protocol—powered by Trend Micro, a cyber security software company. However, you can only set the router vertically, which could pose a problem if you need a horizontal router. 

Best for streaming: Linksys – Dual-Band AX5400 Wi-Fi 6 Router

Linksys

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Why it made the cut: Between the wide coverage range, support for more than 30-plus devices, and splittable price, this router means the only thing your roommates will lag on is doing their dishes. 

Specs

  • Data transfer rate: 5.4 Gbps
  • Coverage: 2,800 square feet
  • Plan speed compatibility: 1 Gbps
  • Parental controls: Yes
  • Ports: 4 Ethernet ports; 1 internet port; 1 USB port

Pros

  • Easy setup
  • Separate guest access
  • Easy device connection thanks to a WPS button

Cons 

  • Reviews note trouble connecting the router to the Linksys app

We’ve all had the problem of the internet slowing because it’s slogged down by everyone’s respective phone, laptop, and gaming system streaming at once. This problem is exacerbated if your roommates like Internet-of-Things smart devices that connect to the network. Expect the slog to stop with this dual-band router, which can connect to more than 30 devices. Additionally, this router is Wi-Fi 6 compatible, meaning it’s fast and futureproof. This router includes four Ethernet ports, one internet port to connect the router to the modem, and one USB port. Also, the router can create a guest access network so your roommates’ siblings or frequent callers don’t cause security problems or snag too much bandwidth when they add their binge-watching to what’s pulling down all the data. A WPS button makes device connection easy, and you can use your smartphone, tablet, or computer browser for quick set-up. The second biggest problem with this router is deciding who will take it at the end of the lease. The largest problem is connecting it to the Linksys app.

Best mesh: NETGEAR Orbi Whole Home Tri-band Mesh Wi-Fi 6 System

NETGEAR

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Why it made the cut: Up to 5,000 square feet of coverage and an included satellite extender means you can take meetings almost everywhere in your home without lag.

Specs

  • Data transfer rate: 4.2 Gbps
  • Coverage: 5,000 square feet
  • Plan speed compatibility: 1 Gbps
  • Parental controls: Yes
  • Ports: 1 Ethernet WAN port; 3 Ethernet ports; 2 Ethernet ports on satellite extender

Pros

  • No dead zones
  • Wide coverage area
  • Tri-band Wi-Fi

Cons 

  • Must pay Netgear to service software issues
  • Expensive
  • App capabilities are only free for 30 days

We’ve all experienced the pain of being laggy and pixelated on a video call, either from weak signals or dead spots in the home. Say goodbye to all that with the Netgear Orbi, which covers 5,000 square feet and includes a satellite extender for more reach. This router, our pick for working from home, can support up to 40 devices and has a crazy-fast data transfer rate of 4.2 Gbps, plus support for Wi-Fi 6 for futureproofing. Unlike other routers, this one supports a tri-band frequency: 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz band for connecting your devices, and a separate 5 GHz band so the router and included satellite can communicate with each other. Netgear Armor Antivirus and data theft protection powered by Bitdefender means business secrets will stay secret. However, there is a catch: this capability, along with others in the Orbi app like parental controls, are only free for 30 days. Afterward, you’ll need a subscription. And you’ll have to pay Netgear for software troubleshooting—that can be a lot of money to spend after purchasing an already-expensive router.

Best cyber secure: Gryphon AC3000

Gryphon

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Why it made the cut: This router does not use a web browser for configuration, making it less likely that a hacker will jack your info. 

Specs

  • Data transfer rate: 3 Gbps 
  • Coverage: 3,000 square feet
  • Plan speed compatibility: 1 Gbps
  • Parental controls: Yes
  • Ports: 1 WAN port; 3 Ethernet ports with backhaul capabilities

Pros

  • Easy installation with Gryphon app
  • Free intrusion detection in the first year
  • Responsive support team

Cons 

  • No advanced customization options

You won’t need to worry about hackers and internet thieves with the Gryphon AC3000, which offers advanced security thanks to its Wi-Fi 6 functionality, vulnerability scans, and app configuration that prevents hackers from accessing your network via the web. It also secures connected devices and sends alerts when it detects vulnerabilities, weak passwords, or infected devices. The router has fantastic basic security and you also get one year of intrusion detection for free with purchase. Afterward, it’s $89 per year. It covers 3,000 square feet—an average 2-3 bedroom home—at lightning-fast speeds thanks to its 3 Gbps data transfer rate. If you purchase multiple Gryphon routers, you can create a mesh network for even stronger, wider coverage. The Gryphon Connect app includes robust parental controls, including content filtering, screen time, and usage monitoring. Its user interface is incredibly streamlined and simple. However, reviews note that there could be more advanced customization options, like more device categories and fields for categories that should be blocked.

Best budget: TP-Link AC1750

TP-Link

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Why it made the cut: The TP-Link AC1750 features high-end capabilities at a fraction of the cost. 

Specs

  • Data transfer rate: 1750 Mbps
  • Coverage: 2,500 square feet
  • Plan speed compatibility: 400 Mbps
  • Parental controls: Yes
  • Ports: 1 USB port; 1 WAN port; 4 Ethernet ports

Pros

  • VPN Server
  • Alexa compatibility
  • Bandwidth prioritization (QoS)

Cons 

  • Not compatible with Wi-Fi 6

The TP-Link AC1750 tops Amazon’s list of computer routers for a reason: it includes a VPN server, bandwidth prioritization, parental controls, Alexa compatibility, and can connect up to 50 devices—all for under $100. A 2,500-square-foot range means you can take video calls outside and bandwidth prioritization allows you to assign devices to either of the dual bands to prevent congestion and slow internet speeds. Connect it to Alexa to turn the guest Wi-Fi on or off using your voice, or use the TP-Link Tether app to set up and manage your network. WPA/WPA2 wireless encryption keeps the entire family protected from hackers, and parental controls protect your kids from looking up mature content on the internet. The only downside of this router? It’s not Wi-Fi 6 compatible, which means it could become obsolete as new Wi-Fi protocols come out.

What to consider when buying the best routers for Spectrum

Routers are not one-size-fits-all. Here is what you need to know when shopping for the best routers for Spectrum:

Modem vs. router

A modem connects you to a wide area network, or WAN—the internet that Spectrum provides. A router connects your devices to a local area network, or LAN—your own little piece of the internet that Spectrum provides. You can’t connect to a router without a modem. Spectrum customers are required to use an authorized modem, and the company provides a preconfigured Wi-Fi router for a monthly fee. However, that adds up, and purchasing your own can save money in the long run. If you buy your own router, you don’t have to give it back if you cancel your service—you can use it with your new internet provider.

Compatibility with Spectrum

Make sure that the router your purchase is compatible with Spectrum. Otherwise, you’ll have to return it. You can find a list of Spectrum-compliant routers on the company’s site. Although buying the correct modem is more important, it never hurts to double-check. Also, the router can only run as fast as your internet plan provides. For example, if you have a router that can only reach speeds of 300 Mbps and have an internet plan for 200 Mbps, you’ll only max out at 200 Mbps.

Wireless protocol

The wireless protocol, or Wi-Fi standard, determines your router’s throughput and range. You can determine the protocol by finding the number 802.11 and a certain letter combination:

  • 11ax (Wi-Fi 6): Wi-Fi 6 is the newest standard and delivers speeds up to 10 Gbps. However, not all devices and internet connections support Wi-Fi 6. You may not need to upgrade just yet, but switching to Wi-Fi 6 will help futureproof your internet connection. This standard is the fastest.  
  • 11ac (Wi-Fi 5): This standard appears on most routers, and supports speeds up to 3.5 Gbps. 
  • 11n (Wi-Fi 4): This standard supports speeds up to 600 Mbps and was the first to allow both 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz frequencies. This standard, compared to Wi-Fi 5 and 6, is the slowest. 

Range and signal strength

Wi-Fi range is determined by the kind of router you’re using, the wireless protocol the router follows, and the space you’re in. Wi-Fi signals have a harder time permeating through concrete, compared to wood, stucco, and other building materials. For example, 2.4 GHz Wi-Fi routers can reach up to 150 feet indoors and 300 feet outdoors and should be used if you’re looking for long-distance Wi-Fi. Routers running on 5 GHz bands can reach around one-third of these distances since it uses narrower wavelengths—because of this, you should choose a 5 GHz router for speed but only if your devices can be located nearer to your internet access point. Newer routers operate on both 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz bands to reach greater distances and achieve maximum throughput for devices in closer proximity.

Budget

The best routers range from $50 up to $500. The best Wi-Fi extenders can help with spotty internet, but Consumer Reports recommends using a mesh router system that relies on multiple systems to spread strong Wi-Fi signals. However, a mesh router system can be pricey. On the flip side, Wi-Fi extenders are cheaper and can be a perfect solution if you’re looking for more reliable coverage in certain areas of your home. However, poor placement of your extender won’t help your Wi-Fi woes and can cause more connectivity problems if your Wi-Fi extender creates a separate network that your device has to switch between.

Extra features

Many newer routers are compatible with voice assistants like Siri and Alexa, have parental controls, and provide separate networks for guests. Built-in VPNs and routers with multi-user, multiple-input, and multiple-output technology—also known as MU-MIMO—can help with security and network speed, respectively. However, if you would not benefit from the bells and whistles—and the added costs associated with them—then there’s no shame in going for a basic router.

FAQs

Q: How do I use my own router with Spectrum?

Per Spectrum’s website, you should first connect the coax cable and power cord to the internet modem. Plug one end of the Ethernet cable into the modem. Plug the other end into the Internet, Uplink, WAN, or WLAN port on the router. Wait 2-3 minutes for the router to light up. You can then either connect an Ethernet cable from the router to a computer or laptop or open a browser and enter the IP address on the router to configure it. You can also configure your router using an app if the router has that feature. Contact the manufacturer if you have any problems with setup.

Q: Does any routers work with Spectrum?

Technically, yes. It’s really the modem that matters, as that will connect you to Spectrum’s internet. However, make sure the router is compatible with your plan. If you have a router that only reaches speeds up to 200 Mbps and a 1 Gbps internet plan, your devices will only be able to reach internet speeds of 200 Mbps.

Q: What’s the difference between a router and a modem for Spectrum?

A router will not work without a modem. The modem is the entire pie that Spectrum has baked: A modem connects you to all the internet that Spectrum provides. Well, at least the slice of Spectrum’s pie you pay for. Your plan determines how large your slice is. The only way you can access that slice of pie is through a modem. Connecting a router to the modem lets you give bites of the pie you’ve bought to your phone, laptop, gaming console, and/or smart devices.

Final thoughts on the best routers for Spectrum

Whether you decide on a router that helps you jumpstart your streaming career, keeps your new battlestation in sync with the rest of the squad, or feeds your OLED TV buttery-smooth 4K video, the best routers for Spectrum will be suited to your lifestyle and internet needs. It doesn’t matter if you go ham-handed on the features or keep it simple—the best routers will get you streaming, web surfing, online gaming, and working with ease.

Why trust us

Popular Science started writing about technology more than 150 years ago. There was no such thing as “gadget writing” when we published our first issue in 1872, but if there was, our mission to demystify the world of innovation for everyday readers means we would have been all over it. Here in the present, PopSci is fully committed to helping readers navigate the increasingly intimidating array of devices on the market right now.

Our writers and editors have combined decades of experience covering and reviewing consumer electronics. We each have our own obsessive specialties—from high-end audio to video games to cameras and beyond—but when we’re reviewing devices outside of our immediate wheelhouses, we do our best to seek out trustworthy voices and opinions to help guide people to the very best recommendations. We know we don’t know everything, but we’re excited to live through the analysis paralysis that internet shopping can spur so readers don’t have to.

The post The best routers for Spectrum of 2023 appeared first on Popular Science.

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The best gaming desks for 2023 https://www.popsci.com/reviews/best-gaming-desks/ Tue, 10 May 2022 22:00:00 +0000 https://www.popsci.com/?p=441947
The best gaming desks
Stan Horaczek

A base for your battlestation.

The post The best gaming desks for 2023 appeared first on Popular Science.

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The best gaming desks
Stan Horaczek

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Best overall Secretlab Magnus Metal Desk is the best gaming desk. Secretlab Magnus Metal Desk
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The Secretlab Magnus desk is simple, well-designed, and features more than a few modular upgrades for customization.

Best computer desk Cooler Master GD160 ARGB is the best computer gaming desk. Cooler Master GD160 ARGB
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The Cooler Master GD160 ARGB is a great standing desk with RGB lighting and other gaming-centric features.

Best budget Seven Warrior Gaming Desk is the best budget gaming desk. SEVEN WARRIOR Gaming Desk
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The Seven Warrior gaming desk offers gaming-focused features at an unusually affordable price.

Every PC and console needs a home, and a great gaming desk can be where you build up a dynamic, ergonomic arsenal. There are so many options to choose from, including hundreds of dedicated desktops. A good one can live with you for years and shape your PC gaming experience with a stylish surface and helpful features like built-in USB ports, LED lighting, and extra storage. Not all gaming desks are created equal, though. Let’s talk about what’s special about the best gaming desks and how to pick the right one for you.

How we chose the best gaming desks

Over the last 17 years, I’ve set up gaming rigs using everything from folding tables to expensive solid wood standing desks. I pride myself on creating battlestations that are as eye-catching as they are reliable. As a member of the tech press for the last eight years—writing for sites like IGN, Reviewed, and Tom’s Hardware—I’ve had more opportunities than most to build systems and create gaming areas for friends, family, and colleagues. With all that hands-on time building PC gaming setups and testing out high-performance laptops, I’ve developed a good eye for what makes a good desk for gaming.

To make these recommendations, I did extensive research, pulling recommendations from the PC gaming community and cross-checking them with user impressions of the products and manufacturers. There is no best gaming desk for every user, but every selection in this list is at the top of its class and well worth your consideration.

The best gaming desks: Reviews & Recommendations

Unlike most gaming-focused gear, the world of gaming desks doesn’t have an established set of trusted manufacturers. They come in countless shapes and sizes, ranging from cheap to exorbitantly expensive. Now that you know what to look for, you’re ready to pick a gaming desk on your own. To help you get started, take a look at our current favorites.

Best overall: Secretlab Magnus Metal Desk

Secretlab

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Why it made the cut: The Secretlab Magnus blends high-quality craftsmanship, style, and an innovative design to deliver class-leading quality.

Specs

  • Desktop dimensions: 59 x 28 inches (width x depth)
  • Height: 29 inches 
  • Special features: RGB lighting, cable management, magnetic accessory kits (sold separately)
  • Maximum supported weight: 220 pounds
  • Price at time of publication: $549

Pros

  • Great build quality
  • Very stylish
  • Effective cable management system included 
  • Plentiful options for desktop customization

Cons

  • Desk mat not included
  • Accessory kits cost extra

The Secretlab Magnus sets the standard for the modern gaming desk. It features an exceptionally sleek style with its dark, gunmetal body, but takes that a step further with an RGB strip hidden in its real cable tray. With a durable steel frame, this desk is sturdy enough to hold over 200 pounds of gaming equipment. Even with a decked-out gaming PC and massive monitor, you’ll never need to worry about it wobbling or collapsing.

Apart from its understated aesthetic and strong build quality, the Magnus desk has a uniquely attractive key featuremodular upgrades that magnetically latch onto the desk’s steel frame. The magnetic “ecosystem” of attachments runs the gamut from cable anchors and sheaths to headphone hangers to a magnetic desk mat.

Those upgrades are also Magnus’ biggest flaw: These are optional add-ons that heap onto Magnus’s already high price tag. The basic Magnus, for $549, includes the basic frame and a cable management tray. The other attachments cost between $13-$79 apiece. Even the basic Magnus is a really nice, solid, gaming desk, but taking full advantage of its features requires a serious spend.

Best computer desk: Cooler Master GD160 ARGB

Cooler Master

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Why it made the cut: The Cooler Master GD160 RGB brings standing desks and gaming desks together in a stylish and functional package 

Specs

  • Desktop dimensions: 63 x 30 inches (width x depth)
  • Height: 25.6-51.4 inches
  • Maximum supported weight: 220.5 pounds
  • Special features: RGB lighting, USB charging port, cable management, motorized adjustment for sitting/standing
  • Price at time of publication: $799

Pros

  • Wide surface area
  • Front and rear RGB
  • Cable management
  • Full height adjustment

Cons

  • Expensive
  • Complicated assembly

The Cooler Master GD160 ARGB brings a full range of features to play, including RGB lighting, a USB-charging port, and the ability to adjust from seated to standing and back on the fly. Its dual-motor provides fast and quiet lifting power up to 220 pounds while reducing wear and tear that builds on a standard standing desk motor. Short of laying on the desk, you’ll never have to second-guess whether you’re overloading the frame.

Cooler Master’s signature purple accents are immediately eye-catching, but it’s the desk’s integrated RGB lighting that really steals the show. Customizable front and rear lighting elements shine throughout your gaming room, lighting up the wall behind your desk. An included cable management tray keeps your cables hidden and your setup tidy. It lacks some of the smaller flourishes, like a headphone hanger and cup holder, but features an extra useful perk: a USB-A port behind the control pad to charge your phone.

It’s an exceptional desk, but it has an exceptionally high price to match: $799. The GD160 ARGB is expensive, even compared to other standing desks. On top of that, the standing desk mechanics make this a tough build. If you’re willing to spend the money and have a friend to help you put it together, it has the perks to satisfy players who invest.

Best converter: VIVO Extra Wide Corner Height Adjustable 38-inch Stand-up Desk Converter 

VIVO

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Buy it used or refurbished: eBay

Why it made the cut: Add this simple monitor stand to any desk to incorporate standing-desk functionality on a budget.

Specs

  • Desktop dimensions: 37.5 x 18 inches (length x depth)
  • Height: 4.8-20 inches
  • Special features: 33-pound lift assist
  • Maximum supported weight: 33 pounds
  • Price at time of publication: $189.99

Pros

  • Spacious enough for two monitors
  • Lift assistance makes adjustments fast and easy
  • Keyboard tray preserves desk space
  • Limited assembly

Cons

  • Bulky
  • Doesn’t look great

If you’re interested in trying a standing desk but don’t want to buy a whole new piece of furniture, a monitor stand like the VIVO Extra Wide Desk Converter can help you get the best of both worlds on your current desk. The 37.5- x 18-inch surface is large enough to hold two reasonably sized monitors (or maybe one ultrawide curved one), with plenty of room for pictures, chargers, and other essentials. Once it’s in place, a lever triggers a pneumatic piston to easily raise or lower its spacious surface up to 20 inches above the surface of your desk. With only a few minutes of assembly, you’ll be able to find the perfect position for your gaming rig and stay competitive even when it’s time to stand up and stretch your legs. Not every folding or portable desk is perfect for gaming, but this one is.

Want to make things even easier? VIVO also sells a larger, motorized version for only $100 more. Since it’s an add-on for an existing desk rather than a new piece of furniture, we feel the pneumatic version will make more sense for most people. To get the full experience with a motorized standing desk, there’s no substitute for a desk designed for that purpose from the ground up.

Best L-shaped desk: ODK L-Shaped Gaming Desk 

ODK

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Buy it used or refurbished: eBay

Why it made the cut: The ODK L-Shaped Gaming Desk combines two desks into one, and comes with extra accessories.

Specs

  • Dimensions: 47 x 59 inches (Length x Depth)
  • Height: 29.83 inches
  • Special features: Spacious surface area, headphone hanger, monitor riser, and additional storage cubby included
  • Maximum supported weight: N/A
  • Price at time of publication: $118.99

Pros

  • Huge surface area
  • Sturdy metal frame
  • Added storage
  • Useful accessories
  • Affordably priced

Cons

  • Lacks gaming flair
  • Challenging assembly
  • No cable management

ODK’s L-Shaped Gaming Desk offers outstanding value, whether you’re a gamer or just in need of a massive corner desk. It combines two surfaces: a long surface for your traditional PC setup and a shorter right side where you can put your computer tower, game consoles, or have a secondary space for other things. It doesn’t scream “gamer,” but has plenty of functional benefits for PC players.

In addition to its expansive surface area, the ODK gaming desk has many accessories that enhance its functionality, including a moveable monitor stand, an iron headphone hook, and an attachable storage bin for controllers and cables. This desk isn’t just about added space; it’s about creating functional space.

At $118.99, this desk borders on shockingly cheap, partly because ODK isn’t a well-known brand. That said, this desk has earned glowing reviews from users, who praise its durability, overall quality, and value. It has also attracted some negative feedback as well, namely that it is not easy to assemble.

If you like the design of the OKL but want a little bit more color and extra “gaming” flair, the Bestier L-Shaped Gaming Computer Desk features a similar frame, plus features like LED lighting and a cup holder, for a slightly pricier $161.99.

Best standing desk: Eureka Ergonomic 62-inch Standing Desk

EUREKA ERGONOMIC

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Buy it used or refurbished: eBay

Why it made the cut: The Eureka Ergonomic Standing Desk has a huge surface and gaming-first features.

Specs

  • Dimensions: 27 x 62 inches (Length x Depth)
  • Height: 29.92-48.43 inches
  • Special features: Wide surface area, dual headphone hanger, cup holder, custom desk mat
  • Maximum supported weight: 220 pounds
  • Price at time of publication: $499.99

Pros

  • Well-priced for size and features
  • Included accessories designed around gaming
  • Extra desk space compared to most gaming desks
  • Aggressive aesthetics 

Cons

  • Complicated assembly 
  • Limited height range
  • Limited RGB settings

We have something you need to see if you’re looking for an exceptionally large standing desk designed for gaming at a surprisingly reasonable price. At 62 by 28 inches, the Eureka Ergonomic 65-inch Standing Desk is wide enough to comfortably seat two people for side-by-side co-op. If you’re more interested in solo play, that extra space makes room for speakers, a tower, a big-screen gaming monitor, or multiple displays to truly make a showpiece battlestation. Knowing that you’re likely to have extra wires with the larger desk surface, Eureka has included two cable grommets that lead to an included cable management tray to keep the desk looking clean and tidy.  

Along the left and right sides, you’ll find a headphone hanger and cup holder, as well as customizable LED strips to position your own lighting elements. There’s also a rack to hold your favorite games and a pair of controllers, doubling as a USB hub. Topping it off, a custom-fit desk pad spans the entire desk surface without blocking the two wire grommets. Little details like that really make this desk feel like it’s designed specifically for PC gaming.

The standing functionality really feels like icing on the cake. Using the included control pad, the entire desk can raise up to 48 inches or lower to 30 inches for standard seating height. That’s a smaller range than other gaming desks with standing adjustability, including the Cooler Master GD160 ARGB. Standing-desk maker Autonomous has found that the average standing desk height for 5’11” users is 44 inches. Likewise, a standard desk for a user around this height is roughly 30 inches. That means you may need a taller chair to use this desk sitting down.

Even for a standing desk, this Eureka desk requires much time to build. Nothing with this desk comes pre-assembled, even the desktop. You’ll need to do everything from bolting both halves of the desk to piecing together the frame, connecting the wires, and screwing on the accessories. However, given all this desk offers, the end result is worth the extra effort upfront.

Best with storage: GIKPAL Computer Desk with Drawer

GIKPAL

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Why it made the cut: This spacious desk has enough shelves and drawers to hold all your accessories, so you can always work on a clean desktop.  

Specs

  • Dimensions: 19.7 inches x 47.2 inches (Length x Width)
  • Height: 33.8 inches
  • Special features: Two drawers, two shelves, a raised desktop-computer space, a built-in monitor stand, integrated USB ports and power outlets
  • Maximum supported weight: N/A
  • Price at time of publication: $149.99

Pros

  • Multiple storage areas
  • Integrated USB ports and oulets
  • Built-in monitor stand

Cons

  • Company does not provided maximum supported weight

Anyone who uses the same desk for work and gaming knows the importance (and difficulty) of keeping your space clean. Tech accessories, pencils and pens, plates, glasses, and everything else end up cluttering up a place that should be used for work and play. GIKPAL addressed all of these issues with its gaming desk, which has shelves, drawers, and a very clever integrated cable management system.

This desk’s drawers are the perfect place to store controllers, external hard drives, battery packs, carrying cases, games, or any other peripheral that isn’t always necessary. You can even use them to store your mouse and keyboard if you prefer to play PC games with a controller or have a console hooked up to the same monitor. If you play games on a desktop PC, you can make use of this desk’s bottom-right shelf, which was designed for this style of computer. Keeping your desktop elevated will make it easier to reach and provide a buffer if your computer room floods.

The pair of shelves on the left-hand side of the desk are the perfect size for game consoles or VR headsets. If you play physical games, you can keep the titles you’re jumping between most often on them too. This is the only gaming desk we’re recommending with a built-in monitor stand, which can greatly improve the ergonomics of your setup if you’re using a display that doesn’t have height adjustment. The space between the desktop and the top of the riser is just big enough for smaller speakers or a slim console if you really want to maximize your space.

If you’ve struggled with cable management before, GIMPAL has you covered. The company has built a three-outlet power strip into the top of this desk, which also features a pair of USB-A ports for charging your devices. You can snake the power strip’s cable down the leg of the desk and into an outlet behind your setup. If you have a lot of tech accessories that require power or opt to keep a console between the desktop and monitor riser, this is a key feature.

GIMPAL declined to provide a maximum weight limit for this desk, but that’s less of an issue because it’s designed to let you distribute your on multiple shelves instead of keeping everything on top. If you want to clean up your setup with a gaming desk, this is the one to get.

Best budget: SEVEN WARRIOR Gaming Desk

SEVEN WARRIOR

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Buy it used or refurbished: eBay

Why it made the cut: This affordable desk offers a lot for little, providing ample space, attractive aesthetics, and plentiful accessories. 

Specs

  • Dimensions: 55 x 24 inches (Length x Width)
  • Height: 29.5 inches
  • Special features: Full-size waterproof desk mat, dual headphone hanger, cupholder, game and controller rack
  • Maximum supported weight: 400 pounds
  • Price: $139.99

Pros

  • Lots of included accessories
  • Sturdy steel frame capable of holding 400 pounds
  • Enough space for most gaming setups
  • Carbon fiber texture

Cons

  • Desktop comes in two pieces 
  • Inconsistent quality control
  • No cable management tray

SEVEN WARRIOR may not be a brand you’ve heard of before, but it’s made a splash in the affordable gaming desk space. And this desk is a prime example of why. At $139, it offers a great balance of features and functionality for a very affordable price.

Available in 44-, 55-, and 60-inch surface sizes, you can find a size that fits your space. The desk is finished with a waterproof carbon fiber texture and includes a size-matched waterproof desk mat, making spills easy to clean up. At 24-inches deep, it’s on the shallow side but still gives you plenty of room for a full gaming PC setup. Two cable grommets allow you to route wires out of sight, but you’ll need to bring your own cable runner if you care to keep things tidy underneath the desktop. SEVEN WARRIOR also throws in a cup holder, dual headphone hanger, and a combination game and controller rack that doubles as a USB hub.

The vast majority of reviews on this desk are overwhelmingly positive. Customers routinely remark on its easy setup and durability. When users are unhappy, though, it’s always for one reasoninconsistent quality control. Many users have reported that their desks came with misaligned parts or, worse, were missing pieces entirely. Sadly, this story is not uncommon with cheaper, lesser-known furniture brands. If the price is right, make sure to double-check all the parts before putting the desk together.

Things to consider before buying a gaming desk

Before you pick out a gaming desk, or a desk with PC gaming in mind, knowing what features to look for before you start is helpful. With so many different options to choose from, knowing what measurements and features you personally need can help you form a solid game plan to narrow down your options.

What is a gaming desk, exactly?

Gaming desks are very similar to any other kind of desk, but some core differences set them apart. While many desks feature wood grain or solid-colored finishes, gaming desks are designed to show off bright colors, decals, and stylized metallic surfaces like carbon fiber. It’s also more common for gaming desks to come with integrated features tailored to enhance your gaming station, including custom-fitted desk mats, headphone hangers, cupholders, and cable management solutions to keep your wires hidden. These aesthetic and utilitarian flourishes make a gaming desk; It’s all about style and convenience.

Size

Its surface area is the most important quality of any desk used for gaming (or work). Gaming desks come in all shapes and sizes, so consider how much space you’ll need. Desks come in many sizes, but a full-size desk surface typically measures around 60 inches wide—side-to-side—and 30 inches deep–front to back. That’s more than enough for a full PC setup.

That said, it may also take up more space than you have in your home office, bedroom, or wherever you plan to set up your gaming rig. As with any furniture purchase, your first step should be to take measurements and determine how much space your desk can fill. Before settling on a purchase, consider exactly what you plan to place on it. Here are some questions to consider before deciding on the right size for you:

  • Will your computer tower be on the desktop or on the floor? 
  • How big is the monitor you will be using? 
  • How much space will you need to move your mouse?
  • What else would you also like to place on your desk?

Answering these questions and measuring out the dimensions of your PC, monitor, and peripherals will give you a good idea of what a comfortable width would be. One more tip: When planning where to put your desk, ensure there’s enough room for a gaming chair.

Knowing how your desk space fits into your home is important, but you shouldn’t stop there. Take a minute to consider everything you would like to place on the desk. Placing your gaming desktop on your desk looks flashy but can take up a significant amount of space you may need for your mouse and mousepad, peripherals, or any other things you want to keep within reach. Figuring out where you plan to place the key components of your setup—the PC, as well as a monitor, mouse, keyboard, and possibly a router—will help you pick a gaming desk capable of realizing your vision.

Adjustability

Some desks come at a specific set height, but others feature some amount of adjustability. Certain dedicated gaming desks, in particular, feature electric motors that allow you to adjust the height of your desk on the fly so you can swap between standing and seated configurations when you want. Some also allow you to adjust the angle of the desktop, though this is less common. 

When shopping for a gaming desk, consider its specified height and how that would fit with the height of your chair. Ideal seated posture and desk layout are important to prevent muscle strain, eye strain, and repetitive stress injuries. According to the New York Times, it’s important to ensure that the desk you choose allows you to sit with your arms at a 90-degree angle for typing and that your eye level is several inches below the top edge of your monitor. Many gaming desks allow several inches of movement up or down to find the perfect position for your body. Even desks without on-the-fly adjustability may offer some amount of adjustability during assembly.

Assembly and reliability

Few, if any, gaming desks come preassembled out of the box. Before committing to a purchase, consider whether you have the time and resources to put your desk together. Cheaper desks often take longer to assemble, as part of the savings comes from limiting the assembly being completed at the factory. Even expensive desks can have their challenges and require multiple people to complete, though.

There is no easy rule to determine whether a desk will be easy or challenging to put together. The best way to learn about the assembly process is through user reviews on retailer sites and forums. When people have an especially easy or difficult time putting a desk together, it often heavily influences their comments. If possible, downloading the assembly guide from the manufacturer’s website can also give you a cursory understanding of what you’ll need to do.

Since desks aren’t professionally reviewed as often as gaming PCs, user reviews are crucial for determining whether a desk is well-made. Poor craftsmanship often becomes clear during the assembly process, and user reviews will hopefully alert you to specific red flags. Users are also quick to point out when parts of the product break or wear out early, both of which should be key factors in your decision-making process.

Accessories

One thing distinguishing a “gaming desk” from universal designs is a bevy of integrated features and included accessories that many players buy second-hand to add to their setup. Many gaming desks come with attachable hooks for headphones and cup holders. Others feature RGB lighting built into the desk frame, custom-cut mouse pad surfaces, and integrated cable management. It’s less common, but an especially luxe gaming desk may come with monitor stands or additional storage. 

While many of these extras may seem superficial since you can purchase them separately, getting a desk with these elements included will save you some time and may save you money. It also ensures that your accessories fit and match your desk, which isn’t always the case if you buy them after the fact. That said, you can get most of them elsewhere, so you shouldn’t pick a desk with flashy accessories over one that perfectly fits you and your space.

FAQs

Q: How much do gaming desks cost?

Gaming desks can vary from cost-effective to quite expensive, depending on the manufacturer and included features. You can find a simple, fixed-height desk for under $100. Larger, sturdier desks with many features can cost upwards of $1,000. Generally speaking, more expensive gaming desks tend to be larger, sturdier, and will wear less over time. Very expensive desks may also include advanced functions like motorized height adjustment.

Q: Is a gaming desk worth it?

The differences between a dedicated gaming desk and any other desk are pretty small. Gaming desks often come with integrated features that PC gamers often buy as separate accessories, like headphone hooks and RGB lighting. And, like other “gaming” products, a gaming desk typically features a flashy, eye-catching aesthetic. They usually come in bright colors, with decals and logos.

Given that, picking a gaming desk versus another option comes down to taste. A gaming desk makes a lot of sense if you want your gaming space to lean into that very specific style that matches the gaming aesthetics of PC components and peripherals. Few desks outside the gaming world have built-in gaming-focused features like RGB lighting, mousepads, and integrated USB ports. 

That said, many gamers may be better off with a standard desk. Remember that you can get most of the common features for gaming desks, such as headphone hangers, cup holders, mousepads, and cable management trays, as attachable accessories. You don’t need a gaming desk to build a killer PC gaming setup.

Q: What’s the difference between a gaming desk and a regular desk?

Ultimately, any desk can be a gaming desk if it has room for your PC or console, a monitor, a keyboard, and a mouse. However, a gaming desk typically has additional features—like a dedicated shelf or cage for hardware, cable management solutions, a cup holder, built-in ports, and customizable lighting—which may not be standard for typical desks.

Q: What is the best color for a gaming desk?

There is no best color for a gaming desk. Choose the one that best fits your aesthetics and gaming hardware.

Final thoughts on the best gaming desks

Choosing the right gaming desk can be, forgive the pun, game-changing. A good desk draws you in and makes you want to use it. It becomes a highlight of the room and puts your gaming station center stage. Finding the right choice can be intimidating when there are so many options, but taking the time to select the best choice is well worth the investment. 

Why trust us

Popular Science started writing about technology more than 150 years ago. There was no such thing as “gadget writing” when we published our first issue in 1872, but if there was, our mission to demystify the world of innovation for everyday readers means we would have been all over it. Here in the present, PopSci is fully committed to helping readers navigate the increasingly intimidating array of devices on the market right now.

Our writers and editors have combined decades of experience covering and reviewing consumer electronics. We each have our own obsessive specialties—from high-end audio to video games to cameras and beyond—but when we’re reviewing devices outside of our immediate wheelhouses, we do our best to seek out trustworthy voices and opinions to help guide people to the very best recommendations. We know we don’t know everything, but we’re excited to live through the analysis paralysis that internet shopping can spur so readers don’t have to.

The post The best gaming desks for 2023 appeared first on Popular Science.

Articles may contain affiliate links which enable us to share in the revenue of any purchases made.

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The best monitor size for gaming in 2023 https://www.popsci.com/gear/best-monitor-size-for-gaming/ Thu, 30 Jun 2022 16:15:00 +0000 https://www.popsci.com/?p=453532
best gaming monitors by size sliced header
Stan Horaczek

Pick a screen size, any screen size. We've sized up top displays to help you pick the best gaming monitors.

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Best overall ViewSonic ELITE XG320U ViewSonic Elite XG320U
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ViewSonic’s ELITE XG320U strikes the ideal balance between size, refresh rate, and resolution.

Best 27-inch The Samsung Odyssey G7 is an incredibly balanced high-performance curved gaming monitor. Samsung Odyssey G7
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The Samsung Odyssey G7 is an incredibly balanced high-performance curved gaming monitor.

Best budget ASUS TUF Gaming VG27AQ1A Asus TUF Gaming VG27AQ1A
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ASUS’ TUF Gaming VG27AQ1A is a big, fast screen with a small price tag.

It’s easy to go into a store and get seduced by the biggest, brightest screen in the room, but the best gaming monitor varies from person to person and setup to setup. There are very good reasons to limit yourself to a smaller display and plenty of valid reasons to go extra large and ultrawide. The important thing is that you adjust your expectations for your monitor’s performance and price to match the size you’re looking for. We’ve looked at every shape and size, rating them by resolution, form factor, and function. If you need a quick recommendation on the best monitor size for gaming, we’ve got you; and if you want a longwinded explanation for why certain specs work better for some monitor sizes than others, we can help with that, too.

How we picked the best gaming monitor by size

We here in Popular Science’s gear department spend a lot of time thinking about screens—particularly TVs and monitors. In the last year, we’ve published dozens of recommendation lists like this one about gaming monitors. I’ve personally teased out, concentrated, and absorbed countless hours of testing and research about the nuances of display technology, as my primary background as a critic is gaming and gaming hardware. Before contributing to PopSci, I reviewed games and peripherals for PCMag, IGN, Gamespot, GamesRadar, LaptopMag, Lifehacker, Gizmodo, and more. Needless to say, I play games every day and scrutinize them closely.

The best gaming monitors, by size: Reviews & Recommendations

If you were on the fence about what size monitor you wanted, I hope my brief rundowns helped you narrow down your choice. Now that we theoretically know what we want, here are the monitors that take the best advantage of their size. From a small, speedy 24-inch esports display to a massive TV-like monitor, we have an option for each of the major screen sizes. If you’d like to drill a little deeper and check out a wider range of monitors by resolution or utility, we’ve put together many types of monitor recommendations.

Best overall: ViewSonic Elite XG320U

ViewSonic

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Buy it used or refurbished: Amazon, eBay

Why it made the cut: ViewSonic’s Elite XG320U offers a fast refresh rate with very few compromises.

Specs

  • Resolution: 3840 x 2160 pixels
  • Refresh rate: 150Hz
  • Panel type: Fast IPS
  • Response time: 1ms
  • HDR/brightness: HDR600
  • Ports: HDMI 2.0 x 1, HDMI 2.1 x 1, DisplayPort 1.4, USB 3.2 with upstream, USB 3.2 with battery charging, USB 3.2 x 3, Audio line out, 3.5mm headphone jack

Pros

  • High resolution and high frame rate
  • AMD FreeSync support
  • Wide port selection

Cons

  • Price

In 2022, we selected ViewSonic’s Elite XG320U as the best gaming monitor you can get, which is why it was the natural choice for this guide, too. This 4K display has a 150Hz refresh rate, which offers the best balance of resolution and refresh rate for most gamers. Console gamers can play the latest games at their maximum settings, while most PC players will have their needs satisfied. The only gamers who need a monitor with a faster refresh rate are those who play first-person shooters on a competitive level—nobody else will feel constrained by this display’s refresh rate.

We’re also pleased by the XG320U’s generous port selection. This display can be connected to one PC (via DisplayPort) and two consoles (via HDMI ports) simultaneously. Devices connected to this display’s DisplayPort and HDMI 2.1 port will be able to take full advantage of its high resolution and refresh rate due to its higher bandwidth. Meanwhile, this display’s assortment of USB-A ports turns it into an accessory hub.

The XG320U’s performance requires a pretty hefty up-front investment, but it’s absolutely worthwhile if your PC’s monitor is your primary gaming screen.

Best 24-inch: Dell Alienware AW2521H

Alienware

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Buy it used or refurbished: Amazon, eBay

Why it made the cut: The Alienware AW2521H offers the fastest possible refresh rate you can get right now, with the fewest compromises.

Specs

  • Resolution: 1920 x 1080 pixels
  • Refresh rate: 360Hz
  • Panel type: Fast IPS
  • Response time: 1ms
  • HDR/brightness: HDR10 (400 Nits)
  • Ports: HDMI 2.0 x 2, DisplayPort 1.4, USB 3.2 with upstream, USB 3.2 with battery charging, USB 3.2 x 3, Audio line out, 3.5mm headphone jack

Pros

  • Extremely high refresh rate
  • Fast IPS panel gives you high speed and better color gamut
  • Lots of extra USB ports

Cons

  • Expensive for a 24-inch display
  • Low max brightness

There are only a handful of 1080p monitors that can run games at 360Hz, which is the fastest refresh rate available from a monitor right now without overclocking. (There is a 500Hz gaming monitor on the way, though.) Of the current displays offering that arguably overblown spec, the Alienware AW2521H has the most polished look and balanced performance. Thanks to a “Fast IPS” panel, you’ll see brighter colors than other 360Hz displays, which feature fast but muted TN panels. 

It also features numerous quality-of-life features, including a thoughtful and suitably sci-fi-inspired design, as well as a shocking number of connection options, including five USB 3.2 ports. The AW2521H’s only glaring flaw is its poor brightness, which isn’t sufficient for playing games with HDR. That said, most players who prioritize the highest possible frame rate over everything else won’t lose sleep over the loss.

Best 27-inch: Samsung Odyssey G7

SAMSUNG

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Buy it used or refurbished: Amazon

Why it made the cut: The Samsung Odyssey G7 hits all the right specs, including an esports-grade refresh rate and an extra-bright QLED panel.

Specs

  • Resolution: 2560 x 1440 pixels
  • Refresh rate: 240Hz
  • Panel type: QLED (VA)
  • Response time: 1ms
  • HDR/brightness: VESA DisplayHDR 600
  • Ports: HDMI 2.0, DisplayPort 1.4 x 2, USB 3.0 x 2, 3.5mm headphone jack

Pros

  • 27/1440p is a good size/resolution pair
  • QLED-enhanced panel
  • HDR-ready brightness
  • 240Hz refresh rate

Cons

  • Curved displays may not be for everyone

The Samsung Odyssey G7 is one of our favorite monitors. It’s our top curved monitor, our top 240Hz monitor for esports players, and popped in many other conversations. Why? Well, we love a 27-inch, 1440p monitor: It’s a great baseline spec for most players who have a mid-range or powerful gaming PC bought or built in the past few years. It’s fast, hitting a competition-ready 240Hz. It’s bright, topping out at an HDR-ready 600 nits. The Odyssey G7’s panel features a 1000R curve, which comes close to fully encompassing your field of view. Not all players love curved displays, particularly deep curves like this one, but it is a perfect fit for those who do. And if you’ve never tried one? Well, you may as well start something that nails all the other specs. (After trying it in a store, of course.)

Best 32-inch: Gigabyte M32U

Gigabyte

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Buy it used or refurbished: eBay

Why it made the cut: The Gigabyte M32U has nearly every feature you’d want in a 4K gaming monitor, and it doesn’t even cost that much.

Specs

  • Resolution: 3840 x 2160 pixels (4K)
  • Refresh rate: 144Hz
  • Panel type: Fast IPS
  • Response time: 1ms
  • HDR/brightness: VESA DisplayHDR 400
  • Ports: HDMI 2.1 x 2, DisplayPort 1.4, USB 3.0 x 3, USB-C, USB-B, 3.5mm headphone jack

Pros

  • Affordable for size and resolution
  • Built-in KVM Switch
  • Strong color gamut
  • Supports USB-C connection
  • Multiple HDMI 2.1 connections

Cons

  • Low max brightness
  • USB-C video connection doesn’t charge laptop

Gigabyte’s M32U isn’t the flashiest 4K monitor by the most coveted gaming peripheral brand, but specs speak louder than branding. The 32-inch 4K display features a fast IPS panel that achieves a 90 percent DCI-P3 wide color gamut for bold, vivid color. It also features a tremendous range of connection options, including two HDMI 2.1 ports, allowing you to play compatible PS5 and Xbox Series X games in 4K at 120Hz. It also works as a USB-C monitor thanks to DP Alt mode support, though it doesn’t deliver power so you’ll have to charge your laptop separately. Twitch streamers with day jobs will appreciate its built-in KVM switch, so you can plug your keyboard and mouse into the monitor’s USB ports and automatically switch them from device to device when you change inputs.

Though 4K monitors aren’t as exorbitant as they once were, it’s still very impressive to find such a fully featured monitor for less than $1,000. Even with a few flaws, like a poor max brightness of 400 nits, you’re getting incredible value here.

Best 40-inch or larger: Samsung Odyssey Neo G9

SAMSUNG

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Buy it used or refurbished: eBay

Why it made the cut: The 49-inch super ultrawide Samsung Odyssey Neo G9 is the height of curved ultrawide decadence.

Specs

  • Resolution: 5120 x 1440 pixels (32:9)
  • Refresh rate: 240Hz
  • Panel type: VA
  • Response time: 1ms
  • HDR/brightness: DisplayHDR 2000
  • Ports: HDMI 2.1 x 2, DisplayPort 1.4, USB 3.0 x 2, PC in, 3.5mm headphone jack

Pros

  • Gigantic curved ultrawide display
  • Mini-LED backlighting provides immense brightness.
  • Esports-ready 240Hz
  • Deep 1000R curve

Cons

  • Extremely expensive
  • You may have trouble fitting it on a desk

For curved ultrawide obsessives, the Samsung Odyssey Neo G9 is a grail display. It’s an absolutely massive 49-inch, 32:9 panel that somehow manages a 240Hz refresh rate. (Such speed is usually reserved for smaller monitors.) With Quantum Mini-LED backlighting, it achieves TV-level brightness that’s perfect for HDR. Obviously, such a large monitor comes with some eccentricities: It’s big and very bright but features a 1000R curve that demands you sit very close to it to stay in the sweet spot. Also, at 49 inches, it may not even fit a smaller, more compact desk setup. On the other hand, it’s big enough to replace two 27-inch monitors. If you’re willing to build/adjust your setup to accommodate it, the Odyssey Neo G9 is an extremely curved ultrawide gaming experience.

Prefer a flatscreen and saving up to a grand? The 43-inch Odyssey Neo G7 offers a 4K UHD, 144Hz, 1ms, VESA Display HDR600 with Quantum Matrix Technology, AMD FreeSync Premium Pro, and Samsung Gaming Hub access.

Best ultrawide: Dell Alienware AW3423DW

Dell

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Why it made the cut: Dell’s first QD-OLED offers refined sharpness and bold color in a curved ultrawide form factor.

Specs

  • Resolution: 3440 x 1440 (21:9)
  • Refresh rate: 175Hz
  • Panel type: QD-OLED
  • Response time: 1ms
  • HDR/brightness: DisplayHDR TrueBlack 400/1000 nits
  • Ports: HDMI 2.0 x 2, DisplayPort 1.4, USB 3.2 Gen 1 downstream x 4, USB 3.2 Gen 1 upstream, Audio line out, 3.5mm headphone jack

Pros

  • QD-OLED screen generates incredible color, brightness, and contrast
  • Speedy 175Hz refresh rate
  • Lots of USB ports

Cons

  • Expensive
  • No HDMI 2.1

Until 2022, companies haven’t really offered OLED gaming monitors. OLED TVs have occupied store shelves for years, and we’re seeing companies put OLED displays in phones, game consoles, and laptops. Still, dedicated monitor manufacturers have held off on making the jump. Alienware is the first of a handful of manufacturers to do so this year.

The AW3423DW features a hybrid QD-OLED technology, which combines the color-enhancing “Quantum Dot” layer found in QLED TV panels with the backlighting technology of the OLED screen, where each pixel features its own independently controlled backlight. The combination, in theory, enhances the inherently low brightness of the ultra-sharp OLED display.

As such, the AW3423 can generate an incredibly vibrant picture, with an unprecedented 99 percent DCI-P3 wide color gamut for tremendous color accuracy and some of the best contrast you can get in a gaming monitor. That alone makes it worthy of special consideration, but it’s also a well-rounded display, with a high 175Hz refresh rate and a whopping five USB ports for extra connectivity. Since this is a “first” for gaming monitors, the AW3423 is tremendously expensive, and some users may want to wait until a wider range of QD-OLED monitors launch later this year to see if there are any kinks in the technology. Still, we expect (read: hope) that this could be the first step toward a “quantum” leap for high-end gaming monitors in all shapes and sizes.

Best budget: Asus TUF Gaming VG27AQ1A

ASUS

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Buy it used or refurbished: eBay

Why it made the cut: The Asus TUF Gaming VG27AQ1A gives you a well-balanced, 27-inch, 1440p monitor that can hit 170Hz for less than $400.

Specs

  • Resolution: 2560 x 1440 pixels
  • Refresh rate: 170Hz
  • Panel type: IPS
  • Response time: 1ms
  • HDR/brightness: HDR10/350 nits
  • Ports: DisplayPort 1.2, HDMI 2.0, 3.5mm headphone jack

Pros 

  • Great value
  • Strong balance of screen, resolution, and refresh rate
  • Lots of adjustability options

Cons

  • DisplayPort 1.2, not 1.4
  • Low max brightness

A perennial pick when you want strong core specs on a tight(ish) budget, the TUF Gaming VG27AQ1A gives you great value with well-balanced core specs for a lot less money than our other picks. The 27-inch IPS panel delivers decent color performance, with 99% sRGB coverage, and a great trio of core monitor specs: 27-inch screen size, 1440p resolution, and 170Hz refresh rate. Since this is an older model display—Asus makes a newer version—it is missing a couple of things we’d like, including up-to-date HDMI 2.1 and DisplayPort connections. That said, if you don’t want to splurge on a killer monitor, this one will give most players what they need for an affordable price.

What to consider when buying a gaming monitor

Clearly, the size of your gaming monitor is important, but it is actually just one of many specs that make a gaming monitor good or great (or terrible). In fact, you should pick your monitor by balancing screen size, resolution, price, and several other factors. I bet you’ve already got your heart set on a specific size, so rather than running you through a crash course in what each spec means, I’ll provide some general insight into why you might want to pick each individual size.

If you’re interested in some deep dives into PC display specs, please check out some of our other monitor-focused explainers, such as the best cheap gaming monitors and the best monitors for color grading.

Size

There are thousands of gaming monitors on the market, but most fall into three sizes: 24, 27, and 32 inches. Our guide reflects that, although there’s a larger display available if you need—or have room for—an ultra-wide monitor.

Resolution

Your display’s resolution has the biggest impact on how good (clear) a game will look on the screen—assuming we’re talking about a modern game designed with the latest graphics. A 1080P (HD) screen will look fine, but 1440p and 4K screens will look even better. On the other hand, you’ll need a very powerful PC to play modern games in 4K, so it may make sense to get a screen with a lower resolution but a higher refresh rate.

Refresh rate

A monitor’s refresh rate, which indicates how many times your monitor can update what’s happening on screen each second, sets the high bar for your games’ frame rate. A 144Hz refresh rate translates to 144 frames per second. That’s enough to allow most players to play many games at the highest frame rate their systems can handle.

Though a higher frame rate delivers diminishing returns to visual fidelity above 144Hz, splurging on a 1080p monitor with an even higher 240Hz, 300Hz, or even 360Hz refresh rate may generate an imperceivable but meaningful improvement to their reaction time. In the last couple of years, 240Hz monitors have shown up in larger sizes and higher resolutions, but you still need a smaller, lower-resolution monitor to unlock the highest possible refresh rate.

Ultrawide aspect ratios

In addition to conventional 16:9 displays, there’s a whole range of 21:9 and 32:9 ultrawide gaming monitors, which can extend your game out to the edges of your vision and enhance your immersion. Ultrawide monitors come in their own range of sizes and tend to trend larger to accentuate their expanded reach. A large ultrawide can take the place of two monitors, providing a similar amount of screen real estate for work, while allowing for a bezel-free experience in games, 

With curved monitors and ultrawides, we usually recommend buying the largest option that’s comfortable and compatible with your setup, as the overwhelming immersion is the selling point. Just make sure there’s room on and around your desk for it.

FAQs

Q: How much do gaming monitors cost?

How much do you want to spend? We’ve researched, tested, and reviewed gaming monitors that run the gamut, from under $200 to over $2,000. I’ve found that—when factoring in value for specs, but without anticipating anyone’s individual budget—many of our top picks range between $400-$1,300, depending on size, resolution, brand name, and other factors.

That said, there are many great options at every price point, so long as you set your expectations appropriately.

Q: Can I use a gaming monitor with a laptop?

Of course! It varies from model to model, but many gaming laptops feature an HDMI port on the side specifically to allow you to connect to a monitor or TV. If your laptop doesn’t have an HDMI or DisplayPort connector built-in, you can always buy a USB hub with an HDMI port.

Q: How high should I have my gaming monitor?

Ideally, you should position your gaming monitor so you’re staring directly at the top of the screen when sitting up straight. This lets you see the whole screen without twisting or craning your neck.

Most monitor stands feature some adjustability, including horizontal and vertical tilt, as well as height adjustment. We’ve found that the best way to position your monitor perfectly is to pick one that is VESA compatible and switch to an adjustable monitor arm (or even dual-monitor stand), which offers more fine control.

Q: Can I use a gaming monitor as a TV?

Technically, that depends on your definition of a “TV.” You can absolutely set up a gaming monitor in place of a TV in your living room or bedroom and plug a cable box into it via HDMI, so it fills the role a TV normally would. The one thing that a monitor can’t do, but a TV can, is plug into an older cable signal via coaxial cable. You won’t be able to use a digital TV antenna to get local channels over the air.

It’s also worth pointing out that a standard 24- to 32-inch gaming monitor won’t be ideal for most living room setups. When placing a TV (or monitor you plan to use as a TV), the ideal screen size is often based on how far away you sit from it. According to a TV distance calculator, you should sit approximately 3.5 feet away from a 24-inch TV or 4.5 feet away from a 32-inch TV. Considering that many people usually sit very close to their monitor(s)—myself included—I can’t imagine most people will be satisfied sitting further away than that.

Final thoughts on the best monitor size for gaming

Without knowing details like what kind of gaming PC you’re running and how much money you’re looking to spend, no one can really tell you what monitor size you should buy. You should make that decision based on what you have and how important it is that your games look their absolute best. It is very easy to overspend on a gaming monitor, especially if you’re into hardware, so the most important thing is to be honest and realistic with yourself.

And if that doesn’t help … a 27-inch, 1440p 144Hz monitor falls right in the middle. If it’s overkill, maybe it won’t be in your next system.

Why trust us

Popular Science started writing about technology more than 150 years ago. There was no such thing as “gadget writing” when we published our first issue in 1872, but if there was, our mission to demystify the world of innovation for everyday readers means we would have been all over it. Here in the present, PopSci is fully committed to helping readers navigate the increasingly intimidating array of devices on the market right now.

Our writers and editors have combined decades of experience covering and reviewing consumer electronics. We each have our own obsessive specialties—from high-end audio to video games to cameras and beyond—but when we’re reviewing devices outside of our immediate wheelhouses, we do our best to seek out trustworthy voices and opinions to help guide people to the very best recommendations. We know we don’t know everything, but we’re excited to live through the analysis paralysis that internet shopping can spur so readers don’t have to.

The post The best monitor size for gaming in 2023 appeared first on Popular Science.

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The best gaming laptops under $500 of 2023 https://www.popsci.com/gear/best-gaming-laptops-under-500/ Wed, 22 Jun 2022 17:30:00 +0000 https://www.popsci.com/?p=451359
The best gaming laptops under $500 composited
Stan Horaczek

Gaming on a laptop under $500 may not be ideal, but it can be done.

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Best overall Acer Aspire 5 Slim is the best gaming laptop under $500. Acer Aspire 5
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The Acer Aspire 5 offers decent power at an affordable price.

Best for video editing Asus Vivobook 15 is the best gaming laptop under $500 for video editing. Asus Vivobook 15
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Make a memorable home movie with the Asus Vivobook 15.

Best for school Dell Inspiron 15 is the best gaming laptop under $500 for school. Dell Inspiron 15
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If you’re a student in need of an affordable but powerful machine, the Dell Inspiron 15 is a great pick.

At their best, gaming laptops offer powerful specs, high-resolution displays, and fast refresh rate screens. Unfortunately, the absolute best gaming laptops cost thousands of dollars. If money is no object, you can pay a tremendous amount of money and get an incredible machine in return. However, most of us have to think more pragmatically and that’s where the best gaming laptops under $500 come in.

Many of us do not have the luxury of spending a lot of money on a new laptop. In the world of gaming laptops, spending less money means you have a shorter window of playing the latest AAA games at high specs before you’ll need to upgrade again. If you’re willing to put concerns about fidelity aside, though, you can get a perfectly good laptop that should play a decent number of PC games for as little as $500. Will they all look great and run well? Probably not, but they’re still fun to play. The best gaming laptops under $500 give you the most gaming power possible on a shoestring budget.

How we chose the best gaming laptops under $500

I’ve been booting up games on Steam for as long as I can remember, and have written about computers for more than a decade on sites like Popular Science, Gear Patrol, and CNN Underscored. I’ve tested all manner of PCs and laptops to find the latest and greatest devices. To find the best gaming laptops under $500, a challenging task, I researched what kind of hardware you may be able to purchase with such a budget. With that information in-hand, I selected the individual picks based on third-party reviews and consumer feedback.

The best gaming laptops under $500: Reviews & Recommendations

Finding a good laptop for under $500, let alone one capable of playing games, is a serious challenge. As you’ll see, most of our picks fall well under the basic standards we set for gaming laptops. Make no mistake: These are compromise picks to help you make the best of a less than ideal situation. With $500, we’d recommend people purchase a console for gaming, an iPad for general computing, or hold out for a major sale like Prime Day or Black Friday in the hopes of getting a rare deal on a more expensive gaming laptop.

Best overall: Acer Aspire 5 Slim

Acer

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Buy it used or refurbished: eBay

Why it made the cut: The Aspire 5 Slim’s Ryzen 3 3350U will ensure you can play many of the industry’s most popular games on low settings.

Specs

  • Processor: AMD Ryzen 3 3350U
  • GPU: Radeon Vega 6
  • RAM: 8GB
  • Storage: 256GB SSD
  • Screen size: 15.6-inch FHD (1920 x 1080)
  • Dimensions: 14.31 x 9.74 x 0.71 inches
  • Weight: 3.97 pounds
  • Connectivity: USB-C 3.1 Gen 1, USB-A 3.1 Gen 1 x 2; HDMI 1.4b, Wi-Fi 6, Bluetooth 5.1

Pros

  • Expansive 15.6-inch FHD display
  • Decent port selection
  • 8GB of RAM

Cons

  • Plastic build

The newest version of the Acer Aspire 5 Slim features an expansive 15.6-inch Full HD IPS display, AMD Ryzen 3 3350U quad-core processor, and 8GB of RAM. (For $40 more, you can bump that up to 12GB of RAM.) The laptop also features Radeon Vega 6 graphics and a 256GB SSD, so games should run and load quickly. There is also a spacious trackpad, a full keyboard with a row of number keys, and a numeric keypad on the right.

Additionally, the Acer Aspire features a USB-C 3.1 Gen 1 port, an HDMI port with HDCP support, Wi-Fi 6, and up to 8 hours of battery life. It’s a good mix of specs, battery life, and price—and should be enough to run games like Fortnite and Minecraft.

Best for video editing: Asus Vivobook 15

ASUS

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Buy it used or refurbished: eBay

Why it made the cut: The Vivobook 15’s combination of the Intel i3, UHD graphics, and 8GB is enough to edit memorable family vacation videos.

Specs

  • Processor: Intel i3-10054G1
  • GPU: Intel UHD
  • RAM: 8GB
  • Storage: 128GB SSD
  • Screen size: 15.6-inch FHD (1920 x 1080)
  • Dimensions: 14.1 x 9.1 x 0.78 inches
  • Weight: 3.75 pounds
  • Connectivity: USB-C 3.2, USB-A 3.2, USB-A 2.0 x 2, HDMI, microSD, WiFi, Bluetooth

Pros

  • Decent port selection
  • 8GB of RAM
  • Fingerprint sensor

Cons

  • Small trackpad

Video editing on an affordable laptop isn’t ideal, but the Asus Vivobook 15 provides users with a decently-powerful experience. The laptop features a 15.6-inch Full HD display, an Intel Core i3-1005G1 processor, an Intel UHD GPU, and 8GB of RAM. That’s good enough for basic video editing and color correction of short clips for social media—just don’t expect to edit any video other than Full HD or lower.

The Asus Vivobook 15 also features a 128GB SSD, a touchpad and keyboard, and USB-C 3.2, so you can quickly transfer video files to and from external devices. You also get an HDMI port, USB-A 3.2, and USB-A 2.0 for connecting additional peripherals.

Best for school: Dell Inspiron 15

Dell

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Buy it used or refurbished: eBay

Why it made the cut: The Dell Inspiron 15’s simple design is great for schoolwork, and can play a game or two between study sessions.

Specs

  • Processor: Intel i3-1115G4
  • GPU: Intel UHD
  • RAM: 8GB
  • Storage: 256GB SSD
  • Screen size: 15.6-inch FHD (1920 x 1080)
  • Dimensions: 14.11 x 9.27 x 0.74 inches
  • Weight: 3.82 pounds
  • Connectivity: USB-A 3.0 x 2, USB-A 2.0, HDMI, SD card, WiFi, Bluetooth

Pros

  • Big, comfortable 15.6-inch display
  • Decent size SSD
  • SD card slot

Cons

  • Limited port selection

If you need something simple to power through note-taking, research papers, and presentations, the Dell Inspiron 15 (3511) is an excellent option. Of course, you’ll want to take breaks—and there’s no better way to unwind than with video games. Dell’s affordable laptop features an Intel Core i3 processor, UHD graphics, and 8GB of RAM to power through games like Rocket League and Counter-Strike: GO. The Inspiron 15 also features a 256SSD, giving you plenty of storage to save those vital school projects and download your favorite titles from Steam.

Best for streaming: Lenovo IdeaPad 3i

Lenovo

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Buy it used or refurbished: eBay

Why it made the cut: The Lenovo IdeaPad 3i features Intel Iris Xe graphics, 512GB SSD, and 8GB of RAM, making it a powerful option for gaming and streaming.

Specs

  • Processor: Intel i3-1115G4
  • GPU: Intel Iris Xe
  • RAM: 8GB
  • Storage: 512GB SSD
  • Screen size: 15.6-inch FHD (1920 x 1080)
  • Dimensions: 14.26 x 9.98 x 0.78 inches
  • Weight: 3.75 pounds
  • Connectivity: USB-A 3.2 Gen 1 x 2, USB-A 2.0, HDMI 1.4, SD card, WiFi 5, Bluetooth

Pros

  • Screen can fold flat
  • 512GB SSD
  • Intel Iris Xe

Cons

  • Thick bezels

The Lenovo IdeaPad 3i is still nowhere near one of the best gaming laptops available but it provides fairly impressive performance for its extremely affordable price. It  features an Intel Core i3 processor, Intel Iris Xe graphics, and 8GB of RAM, giving you the components necessary to broadcast your games to the world. It may not be the smoothest experience, but you must start somewhere. The IdeaPad 3i also features a 512GB SSD, HDMI, two USB-A 3.2, and a 45Wh battery, which should get you through a full day of usage with light to medium use.

Best 2-in-1: Dell Inspiron 14

Dell

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Buy it used or refurbished: eBay

Why it made the cut: Dell’s Inspiron 14 packs in decently powerful specs for the price in an attractive 2-in-1 design.

Specs

  • Processor: Intel i3-1115G4
  • GPU: Intel UHD
  • RAM: 8GB
  • Storage: 256GB SSD
  • Screen size: 14-inch FHD (1366 x 768)
  • Dimensions: 12.77 x 8.77 x 0.75 inches
  • Weight: 3.58 pounds
  • Connectivity: USB-A 3.2 Gen 1 x 2, USB-C 3.2 Gen 1, HDMI 1.4b, SD card, WiFi 6, Bluetooth 5.1

Pros

  • 2-in-1 design
  • Small, portable design
  • USB-C and SD card

Cons

  • Lower resolution display

For just a smidge over our $500 budget, the Inspiron 14 2-in-1 features a 14-inch HD touchscreen display, an Intel Core i3 processor, Intel UHD graphics, and 8GB of RAM. That’s enough power to run multiple applications and browser tabs smoothly. More importantly, it’s good enough to give us our gaming fix—and the 256GB SSD is plenty big to download free-to-play and other popular titles. The Inspiron 14 also features a USB-C 3.2 Gen 1 port for power delivery and data transfer and two USB-A 3.2 Gen 1 ports. It also features an SD card slot, rounding out one of the sleeker, more sophisticated options on our list.

Things to consider when shopping for the best gaming laptops under $500

The fact of the matter is, you can’t really get a new dedicated gaming laptop for $500. For reference, our list of the best cheap gaming laptops highlights strong systems that cost less than $1,000, and it often features models that are 1-2 years old. Most of our picks are budget productivity laptops that happen to provide decent processing power for their prices. Few, if any, feature a dedicated graphics card, which you’d need to play many of the biggest games. Those that work will only run on low or medium settings.

If you are purchasing this device specifically for gaming, there are many other devices that will offer you a much better experience for that same $500. Though they can be hard to find, we would recommend any of the current game consoles over these laptops, including the PS5, Xbox Series X, Xbox Series S, and Nintendo Switch. You might also consider the 2022 iPad Air, which provides access to an increasingly large library of games thanks to game streaming services like Xbox Game Pass. In the realm of PCs, you may be able to build a budget desktop gaming PC for around $500 using older and/or used parts. This may be more difficult than in the past due to pandemic-era supply constraints, but it is not outside the realm of possibility.

If you have your heart set on a laptop, or need a more holistic device, here are the basics of picking a laptop so you can make your own choice:

Processor

The central processing unit, or CPU, is the beating heart of any computer. It performs the computations your computer makes to run programs and perform various tasks, from word processing to editing photos. A computer’s true performance relies on a number of factors, but the two easiest ways to gauge the power of a CPU, specifically, are the chip’s computing cores and its clock speed. Clock speed, shown in Hz, measures the number of computations or “cycles” the processor can make each second. For example, a CPU with a clock speed of 2.8Ghz executes 2.8 billion cycles per second. 

Meanwhile, compute cores give your processor the ability to handle multiple tasks at the same time. Broadly speaking, more cores means better multitasking, especially with more processor-intensive tasks like encoding video.

When discussing the best, we expect modern Windows laptops to feature an 11th or 12th Generation Intel Core i5 or i7 processor with 6-8 processor cores, or an AMD Ryzen 5 processor with 6-8 cores. Since we’re looking at laptops with the tightest of cost constraints, you’re more likely to see the older version of the most basic processors available, such as a 10th-Generation Intel Core i3 processor, or something from AMD’s Ryzen 3000 series. If forced to choose, it never hurts to sacrifice bells and whistles for a basic laptop with a good CPU. The processor, more than any other component, determines how long your laptop will perform at its peak level.

Graphics

The graphics processing unit, or GPU, is an essential component in any gaming laptop and makes it possible to render graphics in 2D and 3D. If you’re working with high-resolution video and art, a GPU takes some of the strain off the CPU and makes rendering everything much faster.

Typically, gaming PCs feature dedicated graphics cards–a second processor to handle visual processing for games, video encoding, and other tasks with lots of … well, graphics. Two companies, Nvidia and AMD, make dedicated graphics cards for desktops and more compact versions for laptops. Occasionally, you will find a very large laptop with a “full-size” desktop graphics card. These laptops often weigh more than you should carry on your back every day.

For the purposes of this list, however, we will focus on integrated graphics, which is a small processing chip built into your laptop’s CPU. Integrated graphics are designed to perform basic graphics processing, such as web browsing and streaming video. They aren’t designed to handle new games or other GPU-intensive work. In the current gaming landscape, there are lots of games that can run acceptably well on integrated graphics, but no game will look as good or run without hiccups on integrated graphics, especially the integrated graphics on a low-end processor.

Memory

Random access memory, or RAM, gives your applications a place to temporarily store data, and quickly access it again if necessary. If your workflow involves using several applications at once, you’ll want a laptop that offers more RAM. Manufacturers generally allow consumers to upgrade their RAM before they make a purchase, and sometimes even after. 

For gaming, we recommend 16GB on a new machine, since you often cannot add RAM to a laptop. This will give you the space to run more intense games while performing other tasks, like running streaming software. Again, though, for $500 or less you’ll likely have to settle for 4GB or 8GB.

Display

As with dedicated gaming monitors, the best gaming laptops can make games look great with sharp, vibrant displays. Gamers may want a larger screen, as it helps build immersion, especially in a temporary space. If we had to highlight one size in particular, it would be 15 inches. At this size, the screen is large enough for a comfortable gaming experience, but it doesn’t make your laptop too big to carry all day. Some gaming laptops offer 17-inch displays, but that’s only a good size if your laptop spends most of its time on a desk.

Whatever size you land upon, chances are it will feature a 1080p (Full HD) screen. A 1080p display will make your games look sharp enough and ensure your computer doesn’t buckle under the strain. If you want a display that’s 1440p (Quad HD) or 4K (Ultra-High Definition) and offers a high refresh rate, you’ll have to look at a more expensive gaming laptop with a more powerful GPU.

Battery life

People buy gaming laptops so they can play games anywhere, but the PC battery life can limit that promise substantially. The hard truth is that gaming laptops don’t offer the best battery life. Even the best, most expensive models won’t get through a full day of heavy use.

With our current picks, which don’t have dedicated graphics cards, you may actually see better battery life than a great gaming laptop—a small bright spot. That said, your laptops will burn through battery much faster when playing games than other tasks, so you should be strategic about how much you play. Keep one eye on your battery indicator and the other on the lookout for available outlets.

FAQs

Q: Can a $500 laptop run Fortnite?

The easiest way to confirm your laptop can play Fortnite is to check the game’s minimum required specs. The Battle Royale is generally friendly to a wide variety of computers, so if you own something older or less powerful, you should be fine on lower settings. 

Here are the recommended and minimum system requirements for Fortnite:

Recommended System Requirements
Video Card: Nvidia GTX 960, AMD R9 280, or equivalent DX11 GPU
Video Memory: 2 GB VRAM
Processor: Core i5-7300U 3.5 GHz, AMD Ryzen 3 3300U, or equivalent
Memory: 8 GB RAM or higher
OS: Windows 10 64-bit

Minimum System Requirements
Video Card: Intel HD 4000 on PC; Intel Iris Pro 5200
Processor: Core i3-3225 3.3 GHz
Memory: 4GB RAM
OS: Windows 7/8/10 64-bit or Mac OS Mojave 10.14.6

Q: Is a gaming laptop good for students?

While gaming laptops can handle everyday tasks, they aren’t necessarily the best option for students. Gaming laptops tend to be larger and heavier than laptops made for work, making them a burden to lug around campus. Students who carry their computer from class to class may not get enough battery life on a single charge to make it through a full day of school. They can also get uncomfortably hot after extended use, so you may not be able to use them on your lap in specific situations.

Q: Can you use a “normal” laptop for gaming?

Broadly speaking? Sure. Really, it depends on what you want to play. A productivity laptop made for work and general computing, like the picks above, is usually capable of playing some games using its discrete graphics chip. They will only play some games, and often on lower settings, though.

Many of today’s top AAA titles require more powerful CPUs, GPUs, and a certain amount of RAM. If you own an older machine, your laptop may not meet that game’s minimum requirements. You will probably not have a good time playing a Call of Duty or Assassin’s Creed game on the average work laptop. That said, there are plenty of great indie games that don’t require a ton of graphics processing power.

We recommend buying a laptop specifically for gaming if that’s something you plan to do every day. As we mentioned, gaming-specific laptops are perfectly capable of performing other tasks, like word processing and web browsing. However, not all standard laptops, particularly models on the lower end of the spectrum, are capable of playing the newest games.

Final thoughts on the best gaming laptops under $500

The good news is that modern processors with integrated GPUs are becoming more powerful every year, making it possible to play games like Fortnite, Minecraft, and Roblox on a wide range of machines. That said, the best gaming hardware you can buy for $500 is not a laptop. It’s a console or a tablet. If you want a gaming laptop that will make your games sing, you’ll have to spend substantially more. 

If you’d like to know more about buying a gaming laptop that delivers great performance and value, check out some of our other explainers on the topic, including the best gaming laptops and the best cheap gaming laptops. They may be expensive, but a great laptop will last five years or more, while you may only get a couple of good years out of these recommendations.

The post The best gaming laptops under $500 of 2023 appeared first on Popular Science.

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The best HP monitors of 2023 https://www.popsci.com/gear/best-hp-monitors/ Mon, 20 Jun 2022 17:00:00 +0000 https://www.popsci.com/?p=450278
The best HP monitors
Stan Horaczek

Hewlett-Packard has a long history making reliable computers and accessories. We’ve screened HP’s screens to bring you the best monitors for your money.

The post The best HP monitors of 2023 appeared first on Popular Science.

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The best HP monitors
Stan Horaczek

We may earn revenue from the products available on this page and participate in affiliate programs. Learn more ›

Best overall HP Pavilion 32 QHD 32-Inch Display HP Pavilion 32 QHD 32-Inch Display
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This beautiful big screen has you covered no matter what you want to do.

Best 27-inch HP E27m G4 QHD USB-C Conferencing Monitor HP E27m G4 QHD USB-C Conferencing Monitor
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With a pop-up camera, two anti-echo microphones, and an ergonomic stand, you’re in business with this productivity-focused monitor

Best 4K HP Z27k G3 4K USB-C Display HP Z27k G3 4K USB-C Display
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Plenty of pixels and connectivity bolster this screen.

A good computer monitor is an absolute necessity. After all, it’s your window to the world. Everything you do on your computer will happen through your monitor—whether that be work, web surfing, gaming, or streaming content—so it may as well as be as good as you can afford. “Good” here certainly includes size (we all like to have a lot of real estate at our disposal), but it also includes things like refresh rate, contrast, color, ergonomics, and useful extras. In a word, get the biggest and best that your budget and workspace allow. Your digital life will thank you for it. And if you’re in the market for the most bang for your buck, consider the best HP monitors.

There are quite a few monitor manufacturers to choose from. Hewlett-Packard—better known as HP—makes office equipment, computers, and computer peripherals, including a wealth of solid choices for your next monitor. With more than 80 years of experience, this American manufacturer knows what it’s doing and many of the company’s screens are of both high-quality and affordable. One caveat: given HP’s history as a business-focused provider, many of its monitors are aimed at work rather than play, but that’s not to say that the company doesn’t have gamers covered too, as we’ll see in this list.

How we picked the best HP monitors

As a freelance writer and computer-based musician who works from home, I spend a lot of time looking at a monitor. And my monitor of choice happens to be an HP. To arrive at this, I spent a lot of time researching monitors from other companies, as well as those of HP. It seemed the natural choice for my budget and I’ve been nothing but pleased with my purchase. To arrive at the screens on this list, I used a similar selection process, looking at features, specifications, and prices of a number of units, then comparing them to expert analysis from peers, trusted consumer product reviewers, as well as user impressions.

The best HP monitors: Reviews & Recommendations

Our recommendations for the best HP monitors cover the gamut from business machines to gaming displays, with a number of different sizes and resolutions available, and with prices that range from budget-conscious to high-limit credit card level. There’s also a variety of connectivity on hand. Grab your monitor shopping list and start ticking off those boxes.

Best overall: HP Pavilion 32 QHD 32-Inch Display

Why it made the cut: Beautiful and true colors, plus generous screen size, make this the perfect monitor for general use cases.

Specs

  • Size: 32-inch
  • Resolution: 2560 x 1440
  • Refresh rate: 60Hz
  • Ports: HDMI 1.4 I/O, DisplayPort 1.2 (1), DisplayPort 1.4 (1), USB-C (1), USB 3.0 (2)
  • Panel type: VA

Pros

  • Excellent image quality
  • QHD resolution
  • FreeSync support
  • Mini joystick controller

Cons

  • No height or swivel adjustment
  • No built-in speakers

You’re not a specialist in any one area. You just need a monitor that will perform well across the board. If this is you, look no further than HP’s Pavilion 32 QHD 32-Inch Display. As the name suggests, it has a 32-inch screen, which is plenty of real estate for whatever you need to do, whether that be work, video editing, gaming or streaming. The QHD 2560 x 1440 resolution and 92 pixels per inch density are acceptable for general home use. With its VA panel type, it’s particularly well-suited to video and photos, with excellent colors and sRGB—Standard Red Green Blue, the main color space used by monitor manufacturers—representation. The casual gamer will enjoy the AMD FreeSync support, which ensures that there’s no image tearing as a result of incompatible frame rates. However, the 60Hz refresh rate could be a turn-off for hardcore gamers (don’t worry, we’ve got you covered later in this list). Plenty of connectivity and a joystick-based navigation system round out the package. At around $250 street, it’s also extremely affordable.

Best 27-inch: HP E27m G4 QHD USB-C Conferencing Monitor

Why it made the cut: This Zoom-certified business monitor has all the extras you need for video conferencing and remote work, plus impressive color and brightness.

Specs

  • Size: 27-inch
  • Resolution: 2560 x 1440
  • Refresh rate: 75Hz
  • Ports: HDMI 1.4 (1), DisplayPort 1.2 I/O, USB-c (1), USB 3.1 (4), RJ-45 Ethernet (1)
  • Panel type: ISP

Pros

  • Good sRGB color
  • 5-megapixel webcam
  • Stereo speakers and two microphones
  • Ergonomic stand

Cons

  • Expensive
  • Navigation is fiddly

The rise in remote work/schooling has changed many things, including what we need for “the office.” With more and more people working from home, video conferencing has become de rigueur in business. Enter the conferencing monitor, a new category of business monitor that places video meetings front and center. HP’s E27m G4 QHD USB-C Conferencing Monitor is our pick for the best 27-inch monitor for just this reason. With its built-in pop-up 5-megapixel camera, loud stereo speakers, and dual anti-echo microphones, it excels as a conference facilitator. Throw in easily accessible ports including USB-C, regular USB, and even an Ethernet port (and network management function support) plus plenty of swivel and mounting options, and you’re ready to rock and roll in a business-appropriate manner. It’s even Zoom certified. As a monitor, it’s no slouch, either, with 2560 x 1440 resolution and 108 pixels per inch, solid sRGB color results, and a refresh rate of 75Hz. All of these perks come with a price tag (around $550) but, hey, you can always write it off as a business expense.

Best 24-inch: HP 24mh FHD Monitor

Why it made the cut: A high contrast ratio and superb color response plus a flexible stand push this HP 24-incher out into the limelight.

Specs

  • Size: 23.8-inch
  • Resolution: 1920 x 1080
  • Refresh rate: 75Hz
  • Ports: HDMI 1.4 (1), DisplayPort 1.2 (1), VGA (1)
  • Panel type: IPS

Pros

  • Surprising sRGB response
  • High contrast
  • Ergonomic stand
  • Built-in speakers

Cons

  • Brightness could be better

When you buy a 24-inch monitor, you can’t expect too much. Higher resolution and fancy extras are par for the course with bigger displays but you’re often forced to take what you can get when space is at a premium. Thankfully, there’s very little to sacrifice with HP’s 24mh FHD Monitor. It’s got an excellent sRGB response for a screen this size, plus a very nice contrast ratio. It even boasts a refresh rate of 75Hz, which is good news for those working with video or playing the occasional MMO. Where it really surprises, though, are the extras. With a DisplayPort 1.2 connector, plus HDMI and VGA, it can be used as a second monitor. You can also adjust the height up to 4 inches and even switch to portrait mode. Two 2-watt speakers complete the package.

Best for video editing: HP Z43 42.5-inch 4K UHD Display

Why it made the cut: A massive screen and 350 nits of brightness make this HP’s best for video editing.

Specs

  • Size: 42.5-inch
  • Resolution: 3840 x 2160
  • Refresh rate: 60Hz
  • Ports: HDMI 2.0 (1), DisplayPort 1.2 (1), USB-C (2), USB 3.0 (3)
  • Panel type: IPS

Pros

  • Great big 42.5-inch screen
  • 4K resolution
  • Nice and bright
  • Plenty of connectivity

Cons

  • 60Hz refresh rate
  • No height adjustment

There’s something to be said for a big monitor. Whether you’re working with video, gaming, or just need a lot of space to keep many windows open, a large display can be a wonderful thing. HP’s Z43 Monitor has you covered then. With a 42.5-inch screen, there’s lots of wide open space to get lost in. It’s also 4K with a resolution of 3840 x 2160 and pixel density of 103 PPI. HP rates the brightness at 350 nits, meaning the screen will stay visible even in bright light, and with sRGB coverage of 96%, your photos and videos will translate to other viewing situations reliably. Plus its gray-to-gray response time of 8ms will ensure little to no ghosting in movies. The 60Hz refresh rate could be better, and height adjustment to go along with the tilt and swivel functions wouldn’t hurt, but if you’re set on an HP to expand on a laptop for video editing setup, the Z43 should be on your list.

Best 4K: HP Z27k G3 4K USB-C Display

Why it made the cut: A wealth of productivity options bolster the specs on HP’s Z27k G3 4K display.

Specs

  • Size: 27-inch
  • Resolution: 3840 x 2160
  • Refresh rate: 60Hz
  • Ports: HDMI 2.0 (1), DisplayPort 1.4 I/O, USB-C (1), USB 3.2 (4), RJ45 Ethernet (1)
  • Panel type: IPS

Pros

  • Impressive colors
  • Solid contrast
  • USB-C port can deliver 100 watts of power
  • Ergonomic stand

Cons

  • Pricey

When it’s time to get down to work, you need a monitor that will do more than just not get in your way. You want a display that will work with you and hopefully do it in 4K. You’re in luck, as HP’s Z27k G3 4K Display is just that productivity monitor. The specs start with UHD 3840 x 2160 resolution—given that it’s a 27-inch monitor, that puts the pixel density at a luxurious 163 PPI. Higher density means sharper images, and that’s just what you get here, crisp enough even for small text and images. Color is superb, as is contrast, with enough brightness (350 nit) for most situations. The productivity side comes into play with the docking station, with tons of connectivity including USB-C that charges at a hot 100 watts—that is, if you’re using an HP laptop. Otherwise, it’s 65 watts. The stand is suitably ergonomic as well, and the panel can be pivoted to vertical (portrait) mode if need be. While it’s a little on the pricey side compared to other models with similar specs, this display is certainly impressive in all the right places.

Best gaming monitor: HP OMEN 27c Monitor

Why it made the cut: A blisteringly fast refresh rate and aggressively curved monitor make HP’s gaming monitor a solid contender.

Specs

  • Size: 27-inch
  • Resolution: 2560 x 1440
  • Refresh rate: 240Hz
  • Ports: HDMI 2.0 (1), DisplayPort 1.4 (1), USB-C (1), USB 3.2 (2)
  • Panel type: VA

Pros

  • Super fast 240Hz refresh rate
  • 1000R curvature
  • Strong color accuracy
  • FreeSync support

Cons

  • Visual artifacts from VA display

HP has built its reputation on business-focused devices and peripherals. You don’t often think of the company when it comes to gaming. That’s changing, though, and HP’s OMEN 27c Monitor is proof of that. A strong gaming monitor at a more than reasonable price, it’s not perfect but it does excel in a few key areas. The first you’ll notice before you even turn it on. With a curvature of 1000R, it draws your field of view naturally into the gameplay, helping to create an immersive experience and avoid repetitive stress on your neck. The other selling point is the refresh rate. At 240Hz (one of our favorite specs for a top-notch gaming monitor) it’s quite zippy, resulting in butter-smooth motion. As with the other HP monitors on this list, the color response is also superb—throw in a high contrast ratio and plenty of brightness, and you’re set for a long night of gaming. It’s not perfect, though. There are occasional visual artifacts as a result of the VA response time, and the display’s HDR implementation could be better, but if gaming is your thing, it could be just the golden ticket.

Best budget: HP VH240a 23.8-inch 1080p IPS LED Monitor

Why it made the cut: A grip of extras plus solid colors and contrast lift this budget monitor above its price point.

Specs

  • Size: 23.8-inch
  • Resolution: 1920 x 1080
  • Refresh rate: 60Hz
  • Ports: HDMI (1), VGA (1)
  • Panel type: IPS

Pros

  • Impressive colors for the price
  • High contrast
  • Ergonomic stand
  • Stereo 2-watt speakers

Cons

  • Lacking in connectivity

While there’s a lot to be said for a monitor that can do it all, sometimes all you need is a monitor to show you what’s on your computer screen. Extensive connectivity, gaming extras, web cameras—these are all unnecessary. If this is your concern, or you’re on a budget and just need a monitor that will get the job done, HP’s VH240a Monitor is the one for you. With a 23.8-inch IPS screen and a 60Hz refresh rate, it’s more than capable of handling day-to-day computing tasks. It has HP’s solid color numbers, with a nice, high contrast ratio that’s impressive at the sub-$200 price point. Surprisingly, it also boasts a highly ergonomic stand that can pivot to portrait mode, making it a good candidate for a second screen. It even has stereo speakers, a bonus for a monitor of this price. While it may be lacking in connectivity, it has plenty else to recommend it.

Things to consider when shopping for the best HP monitors

With such a wide variety of monitor types, it can be hard to know where to start. The first thing you’ll want to consider is size. Monitors come in a number of different sizes (measured diagonally across the screen, of course). Bigger is probably better but there’s also the matter of desktop real estate. A small corner desk will require a monitor with very different dimensions than, say, a wide table. You’ll also want to keep in mind how you plan to use your new screen. A monitor geared toward remote work will have a number of features that you may not need if your intended use is for streaming content or gaming. Connectivity is another matter to examine. What kinds of ports do you need? Once you’ve settled this, you’ll find your options narrowing down to a few strong candidates.

What makes up a monitor?

Not every monitor is the same. Even ones of the same screen width could have very different specifications. There’s size, of course, but there’s also resolution. A nice, wide monitor may give you the space you need but it won’t look good without a high-enough resolution to do it justice. A good resolution will give you both clarity of image and more space to spread out your work. Another aspect of monitors is refresh rate—how many times per second the display is able to redraw images. This is important when it comes to motion—streaming video and games, especially. For non-gaming monitors, a 60Hz refresh rate is standard but faster rates will give you smoother results.

Not every monitor is made of the same stuff. There are three main types of display panel used in modern monitors. They are IPS (In-Plane Switching), TN (Twisted Nematic), and VA (Vertical Alignment). They all have different plusses. IPS is the most common and offers a solid balance of features. TN monitors tend to be more affordable and provide a slightly better response time. Lastly, VA monitors excel at contrast and black levels but can lag when it comes to response time.

Display resolution: Resolution refers to how many pixels a monitor can display in terms of width and height. The more pixels crammed into a display, the sharper the image will be. There are resolution standards, with HP often referring to these standards with acronyms. HD (also known as 720p) has a resolution of 1280 x 720 pixels. The next up on the list is Full HD, or FHD (also known as 1080p). This has a resolution of 1920 x 1080 pixels. Continuing up, there’s WUXGA (widescreen ultra extended graphics array) with a resolution of 1920 x 1200 pixels. Next is QHD (quad high definition) with 2560 x 1440 resolution. This has four times the resolution of standard definition; it’s also sometimes referred to as 2K. After that is Ultra HD (or UHD) with 3840 x 2160 pixels. This is also known as 4K. The current top level is 5K with 5120 x 2880 pixels found in specialty (read very expensive) models, such as Apple’s Studio Display.

Connectivity: There are a number of different kinds of ports that you can find on monitors. The most common is HDMI but there are actually four different HDMI cable types. HDMI standard can handle resolutions up to 1080p; HDMI High Speed is for 4K resolution; HDMI Premium High Speed will work with HDR-enabled devices; and HDMI Ultra High Speed (made to meet the HDMI 2.1 standard) is what you’ll need if you require support for uncompressed 8K video and 48 Gbps bandwidth.

Launched in 2008, DisplayPort is a newer standard and is often used for gaming or video editing. There are three types of DisplayPort cables. DisplayPort 1.2 is for monitors with a resolution of up to 3840 x 2160 (UHD 4K) with a 60Hz refresh rate. DisplayPort 1.3 handles 8K video at a 30Hz refresh rate, while DisplayPort 1.4 is for 8K video at 60Hz and HDR video.

Another connection type is USB-C. For modern machines, this is the preferred way to connect laptops to external monitors. You may also encounter regular USB ports on some monitors as well. Meanwhile, two older types you may see are DVI and VGA.

FAQs

Q: Are HP monitors flicker-free?

We spend a lot of time looking at monitors. That’s why we want to make sure that they’re as easy on the eyes as can be. One issue that some monitors can have is flicker, or extremely rapid cycling of light. This can be visible or invisible but even the invisible kind can be tiring on your eyes. Flicker can be caused by a number of things. For older monitors, the likely culprit is PWM, or pulse width modulation. To reduce the screen’s brightness, PWM turns the monitor’s backlight off and on at a very high rate. This can cause eye strain over long periods of viewing. Thankfully, most modern monitors—including HP monitors—are what is called Flicker-Free, meaning they employ DC (or direct current) modulation to maintain brightness at a constant level.

Q: Are HP monitors made in China?

As with many modern technological products, HP monitors are manufactured in China. The company uses a number of different production outfits in China to manufacture its monitors, including Hon Hai Precision Industry Company Ltd, Qisda, TPV Technology Limited, and Wistron. Other companies that also employ these factories are BOE, AU Optronics Corporation, and LG Display. However, Hewlett-Packard (to use the company’s full name) remains an American company headquartered in Palo Alto, Calif.

Q: How often should you replace your HP monitor?

There are a number of reasons why you might want to replace your HP monitor. Perhaps you’ve changed the way you work (moving from the office to a remote work situation, for example) and need more of the extras that come with a conferencing monitor. The same could apply to a change in hobby or lifestyle. If you’re devoting increasingly more time to gaming, it makes sense to up your game with a new and full-featured gaming monitor. Or perhaps you’d just like better resolution or a more dense pixel count. These are all valid reasons to replace your monitor. There are also technical limits to displays. HP monitors, like all monitors, have a backlight with a finite lifespan. Once that source of luminescence burns out, you’ll have no choice but to replace your monitor. Other technical issues include monitor burn-in, dead pixels, or even mechanical issues like a bad power supply. All things considered, a monitor should last between five and 10 years.

Q: How much should an HP monitor cost?

This depends on which features matter most to you. Larger, higher resolution monitors can run over $500, while a basic HD display shouldn’t set you back more than $150.

A final word on selecting the best HP monitors

Hewlett-Packard has been in the business for a long time. The company brings all of that experience to bear on its products, monitors included, so HP’s screens should always be considered when making the decision to buy a new one. While HP does lean toward business-focused screens, there are plenty of other types available, and often at very reasonable prices. With the right research and a category-focused approach, you’ll be able to select the best HP monitor that will hopefully complement your computing needs.

The post The best HP monitors of 2023 appeared first on Popular Science.

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The best OLED TVs in 2023 https://www.popsci.com/reviews/best-oled-tvs/ Fri, 25 Feb 2022 17:45:26 +0000 https://www.popsci.com/?p=426218
The best OLED TVs composited
Stan Horaczek

Picking from the top of the television heap.

The post The best OLED TVs in 2023 appeared first on Popular Science.

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The best OLED TVs composited
Stan Horaczek

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Best overall The Samsung S95C OLED on a stand in a room with two chairs Samsung S95C
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Samsung’s latest OLED offering makes a strong statement.

Best for gaming LG C2 OLED TV with a colorful graphic on the screen LG C2 OLED
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Excellent connectivity and a bright picture make this a gaming superstar.

Best budget LG B2 budget OLED TV with a blue swirly graphic on the screen LG B2 OLED
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A balanced suite of features goes nicely with excellent image quality.

Step in front of the giant wall of TVs at your local big box store, and the OLED TVs will likely stand out. Their popping color and abundant contrast give these high-end panels an edge over much of their competition. And while technologies like Mini LED and Micro LED may eventually challenge OLED’s image quality crown, it hasn’t happened yet. At the same time, you know that the showroom has all the settings pushed to their peak to overwhelm you with vivid images. So, to help you separate the best from the rest, we’ve collected this list of top-tier OLED TVs across various brands and price points. While you shouldn’t expect to find a truly budget OLED TV, we have reached a point where there are strong options at relatively affordable (for high-end) prices. Sony debuted the first OLED TV back in 2007. It had an 11-inch screen with a 960 x 540 resolution for a tidy sum of $2,500. Spend that much now, and you can get a massive OLED display with some of the best picture quality and color reproduction around. The following are our selections for the best OLED TVs currently available.

How we chose the best OLED TVs

I have been writing about consumer electronics and home theater technology for nearly two decades, including a stint as the digital editor for the venerable A/V publication Sound & Vision. This list results from a combination of research and real-world impressions, plus data sourced from user and editorial reviews across the web.

We focused on emphasizing a solid mix of performance and price to choose our picks. All but one of the entries here include HDMI 2.1 ports, which we think will be important for some users now (particularly gamers) and others down the road. Obviously, LG is well-represented on the list as it’s the only company that physically manufactures OLED panels, which gives it an inherent edge that we can’t deny.

The best OLED TVs: Reviews & Recommendations

Because OLEDs sit near the top of the TV heap, pretty much any model you choose will perform at least reasonably well. The differences, then, lie in the details. We’ve dug into those specs to find the displays that best fit your needs.

Best overall: Samsung S95C OLED

Stan Horaczek

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Specs 

  • Sizes: 55”, 65”, and 77”
  • Resolution: 4K
  • Refresh rate: 120Hz (Up to 144Hz in some modes)
  • Ports: 4 HDMI 2.1, 3 USB-A, RF, Optical out
  • HDR: HDR 10+

Pros

  • Ports live on a box connected by a wire for versatile installation
  • Extremely bright for an OLED
  • Exceptional picture quality
  • Robust smart TV offerings
  • Solid sound
  • Pantone-certified color reproduction

Cons

  • Pricey
  • Bloated menu system

Samsung’s flagship OLED TV has, at least for the moment, knocked LG off the OLED throne. The S95C TV relies on Samsung’s latest generation of OLED panels, which integrate Quantum Dots into the equation to add extra brightness. OLED displays typically excel in contrast ratio, but that’s because they can achieve such deep black levels. That can kneecap their overall brightness. However, I spent time with Samsung’s S95C in a brightly lit room and found myself very impressed with its performance. 

As a flagship-level display, this TV offers almost all the bells and whistles you want. All its ports live on an external box connected by a single wire to the display. That makes it very easy to install the super-flat panel wherever you want while keeping all the ports accessible. The S95C comes toting four HDMI 2.1 ports, which is essential if you plan on doing high-framerate or high-res gaming on a current-generation console. 

During the review period, I played the PS5-exclusive Returnal and found the visuals extremely crisp and the refresh rate very smooth. This panel natively runs at 120Hz but can bump up to an even-smoother 144Hz in some situations. 

I also watched portions of a few movies, including the latest Venom movie, which taxes a TV by showing lots of fine details moving quickly across the screen with lots of contrast. The S95C managed to keep everything we like about OLEDs while adding the extra brightness that makes it viable in any space, even those with lots of ambient light. 

We haven’t had a chance to test the LG C3 yet, which will likely find itself in close competition with the S95C, but we’ll update this article once review units of the LG become available.

Best for gaming: LG C2

Specs 

  • Sizes: 42”, 48”, 55”, 65”, 77”, and 83”
  • Resolution: 4K
  • Refresh rate: 120Hz
  • Ports: 4 HDMI 2.1, 3 USB-A, Ethernet, RF, Headphones
  • HDR: Dolby Vision, HDR10

Pros

  • Lots of sizes to choose from
  • All HDMI ports are 2.1 for max compatibility
  • Brighter than previous models
  • Dynamic tone mapping for localized image improvements
  • G Sync and Freesynch compatibility for variable refresh rates

Cons

  • Middling smart TV features

The LG C1 was a blockbuster of a TV that took top honors in just about every TV buying guide back in 2021. The only real downside was its relative lack of brightness (typical of OLEDs). By adding Quantum Dot tech to an OLED panel, LG gave the C2 considerably more brightness than its already excellent predecessor. 

The C2 is technically a 2022 model, but the C3 is only just starting to roll out. While the C2 isn’t the newest, it does offer the vast majority of what you’ll find in the C3 for a fraction of the price. With the C2, you get four side-mounted HDMI 2.1 ports, all of which can handle 4K action at 120 fps. 

As for gaming chops, this TV offers native support for the GeForce Now game streaming platform, so you can game even if you don’t have access to a PC or console. The C2 also supports several popular flavors of variable refresh rate technology, which prevents problems like screen tearing and game-ruining lag from spoiling your time behind the controller. 

Even if you’re not a huge gamer, the C2 is still a phenomenal all-around option, especially considering the lower price now that a new model has come around with updates. 

Best for PS5: Sony BRAVIA XR A80K Series 4K

Sony

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Specs 

  • Sizes: 55”, 65”, and 77”
  • Resolution: 4K
  • Refresh rate: 120Hz
  • Ports: 4 HDMI (2 of which are HDMI 2.1), 2 USB-A ports, RF, Ethernet
  • HDR: HDR10 Dolby Vision

Pros

  • PlayStation 5 users get specific benefits due to Sony Synergy
  • Excellent picture
  • Price has come down since release
  • Among the best upscaling you’ll find
  • Ample contrast

Cons

  • Not as bright as some newer flagships
  • No headphone jack

It may come as no surprise that Sony wants to add a little extra incentive for people to buy both its latest TVs and its gaming console. For the most part, this is a typical high-end OLED display. It offers the deep blacks and excellent contrast ratios you expect from an OLED. You also get some of the best ai-powered image upscaling you’ll find in a TV thanks to Sony’s XR processor, which analyzes the on-screen image and tweaks it for maximum performance. So, if you’re not always watching native 4K content (and most of us aren’t), it will still look good. 

Plug a PlayStation 5 into one of the two HDMI 2.1 ports (out of a total of four) and this setup is capable of 4K gaming at 120 fps, even if consoles haven’t quite caught up to those lofty specs just yet. The TV does, however, get special tone-mapping abilities for more robust HDR performance exclusively with the PS5. Plus, those two HDMI 2.1 ports support Variable Refresh Rate tech with the PS5 to avoid screen tearing and other unwanted effects. In many ways, this TV was designed to work ideally with the PS5, so if you consume most of your content through that console, this is a great choice.

Best 8K: LG Z2 OLED evo

Specs 

  • Sizes: 77” and 88”
  • Resolution: 8K
  • Refresh rate: 120Hz
  • Ports: 4 HDMI 2.1, 3 USB-A, RF, Ethernet
  • HDR: Dolby Vision, HDR10

Pros

  • The only 8K OLED around
  • Enormous sizes match the flashy design
  • Excellent picture quality
  • Robust smart features

Cons

  • Could be brighter
  • Very expensive

LG’s flagship Z2 TV pushes its maximum resolution all the way up to 8K. That means you get roughly 32 megapixels of image information every time the screen refreshes. That’s a serious amount of pixels. Of course, there really isn’t much native 8K content out there at the moment. LG remedies that issue by equipping its TV with its most powerful a9 image processing hardware. It relies on AI to upscale the on-screen image to fit the massive 8K screen. If you’re still regularly watching DVDs, this probably isn’t the TV for you. But if you’re watching native 4K and even streaming content, it should look very solid. 

In addition to all those pixels, this TV also has a classier design than most of its competition. At 77” and 88”, there’s no small option to sneak into a guest bedroom. This is a centerpiece TV made to occupy the main spot in the living room. It comes mounted on its own stand, allowing it to reside wherever you have the space. Whatever you do, however, please don’t put it too high above the fireplace. It deserves better than that. 

Is this TV practical? No, 8K is still in its infancy, and you’re definitely paying a premium for the fancy design. But why not get something fancy if you’re not worried about a measly $13,000 (or $25,000 for the 88″)? 

Best budget: LG B2

Specs 

  • Sizes: 55”, 65”, and 77”
  • Resolution: 4K
  • Refresh rate: 120 Hz
  • Ports: 4 HDMI ports (two of which are HDMI 2.1), 2 USB-A ports, Ethernet, RF, Headphones, Optical audio
  • HDR: Dolby Vision, HDR10

Pros

  • Lots of features considering the price
  • OLED image quality makes for great contrast
  • Filmmaker Mode for easy tuning
  • Available up to 77 inches
  • Variable Refresh Rate

Cons

  • Only two HDMI 2.1 ports
  • Not as bright as some high-end models

The LG B2 offers a lot of performance for its price. While this is technically a 2022 model, and the B3 is already on the market, the B2 offers all the features most users will ever need. It has a pair of the latest HDMI 2.1 ports (two of the four total HDMIs), both supporting 4K at 120 fps. So, if the current-generation gaming consoles ever live up to their full potential, this TV can handle it. 

Like every OLED, the B2 offers sky-high contrast ratios with deep blacks and excellent color reproduction. As this isn’t a flagship model, it doesn’t offer the same kind of brightness you’d expect from displays that also integrated Quantum Dots. That’s really only an issue if you’re trying to put this TV in a room with a ton of ambient light. This will look fantastic if you have a space to pull the shades and turn off the overheads. 

Because this is a somewhat down-market option and has been out for more than a year, you can often find deep discounts on all three sizes. If you don’t absolutely need the very best and the brightest, then you can get this display and leave lots of cash to pay for that ever-growing list of streaming services.

Still worth buying: LG C1

Specs 

  • Sizes: 48”, 55”, 65”, 77”, 88”
  • Resolution: 4K
  • Refresh rate: 120Hz
  • Ports: 4 HDMI 2.1, RF, 2 USB 2.0, ethernet, optical audio, headphone out
  • HDR: Dolby Vision, HDR10

Pros

  • Impeccable picture
  • Solid mix of features and price
  • Lots of size options
  • Excellent upscaling

Cons

  • Just OK brightness

This was our best overall pick for some time, and it’s still absolutely worth checking out if you don’t need the most advanced features or the brightest display. You can often find it at a very solid discount.

Across all of your content consumption, the C1 provides an excellent contrast ratio thanks to its super-deep black levels. For movie watching, LG offers filmmaker mode, which turns off motion smoothing and tones down the vibrance and brightness to make the picture look more like what you’d expect at the theater. 

The C1 supports all the most popular flavors of HDR, as well as the two dominant Variable Refresh Rate technologies, G-Sync and FreeSync, which gamers will appreciate. In fact, the C1 has a lot to offer gamers. All four HDMI ports support HDMI 2.1, giving you enough to hook up a PS5 and Xbox Series X for 4K/120fps gameplay. Plus, it boasts a 1ms response time in gaming mode, which cuts down potentially game-ruining lag. 

It’s not the brightest TV around, but that’s also one of the few drawbacks of OLED TVs across the board. Aside from that quibble, the C1 has just about anything anyone could ask for, and it won’t require ill-gotten crypto funds to afford it.

What is OLED, and how does it work?

Want to dig deeper into how these displays actually work and what makes them different from the rest of the TVs on the wall at the store?

Well, in an organic light-emitting diode (OLED) display, each pixel is an LED that emits its own light. When content requires dark or black areas on the screen, the display can simply turn those pixels off to create a “true” black that most other backlight technologies can’t match. The difference often becomes especially apparent in areas where bright objects butt up against darkness, which can cause light to spill where it shouldn’t go.

Typical LED backlit TVs rely on an array of LEDs sitting behind an LCD panel that controls how much light to let through. This is the same basic idea that has powered almost every flat-screen TV since the technology’s inception, and it comes with a few drawbacks. The primary issue arises when the LCD panel can’t block all of the light coming from behind it: The excess light distorts black and even darker colors, making them look gray or washed out. Depending on the arrangement of the LEDs in the backlight, it can also result in a picture with unnatural banding or patchiness, especially around the edges. If you’ve ever noticed light leaking from the top, bottom, or sides of your TV screen during a dark scene, OLED fixes that problem. 

While OLEDs are fantastic, they aren’t perfect. They’re still often pricier than their QLED competition at the same size. They also aren’t as bright and instead rely on their super-dark black levels to create a punchy, vibrant image. If you’re planning to watch TV in a super sunny room all day, then OLED probably isn’t your best bet. Otherwise, it’s hard to beat. 

What to know even more about backlighting tech? Check out our QLED vs. OLED vs. Mini-LED primer.

Things to consider when buying an OLED TV

Size

Dig into the OLED offerings, and you’ll find that most manufacturers hover around the 55- to 65-inch sweet spots for their most popular models, with an increasing amount of options in the 70s. If you’re in the market for a small TV, OLED probably isn’t the right choice for you. As with all big-screen TV, expect a noticeable price jump when you go above 65 inches. Manufacturers commonly offer 77-inch and even 88-inch displays, but they command a huge premium for all that real estate. 

Connectivity

Since you’re spending considerable cash on a new TV, you want it to last a while, which makes paying attention to the ports important for futureproofing. This is especially true if you plan to use your new panel with a fancy next-gen gaming console. 

Ideally, you’ll want a set with multiple HDMI 2.1 ports to prepare you for anything you may one day hook up. HDMI 2.1 represents the most recent iteration of the familiar connector. The extra bandwidth HDMI 2.1 provides allows compatible cables and devices to display high resolutions and fast frame rates, both of which will be increasingly important as streaming and gaming tech advance in the next few years. Right now, it’s only really relevant if you’re using a PS5 or Xbox Series X, but more devices will be able to take advantage down the road.

You’ll often find that TVs have a mixture of HDMI 2.1 and HDMI 2.0 ports, so just ensure you have enough high-performance connectivity to connect the devices you plan to use. 

Frame rate

High TV frame rates earned themselves a bad reputation early on when “motion smoothing” technology made our favorite movies look like cheesy soap operas. Many TVs still offer 60Hz refresh rates, which means the TV redraws the on-screen image 60 times each second. Higher-end TVs, however, support 120Hz refresh rates, which doubles the redraw frequency and creates smoother on-screen motion. While it won’t drastically improve movies and TV shows, it can make sports and video games look noticeably better. 

Some TV manufacturers have also started to support Variable Refresh Rate technologies like Nvidia’s G-Sync and AMD FreeSync. These gaming-focused features can reduce stuttering and other weirdness that can ruin your experience. Check out our round-up of the best TVs for gaming for a more in-depth take on these features.

Resolution

If you’re buying a current-generation OLED TV, it will almost certainly offer 4K resolution. This has been the standard for several years, and it’s where you want to be. Technically, 8K is an option, but it’s wildly impractical for most people. Right now, there’s a nearly complete dearth of 8K content to watch on those fancy TVs. Even newer game consoles like the Xbox Series X and PS5, which technically support 8K gaming, lack any native 8K games or content. Upgrade to 8K if you want the bragging rights. Otherwise, 4K is plenty for now. 

Smart TV features

While a TV’s software won’t impact your viewing experience as much as its technical specifications, it may affect your interaction with your new OLED display if you don’t use an external streaming device or game console. Most TV manufacturers have a single platform on which all their TVs run. Since we’re talking about OLEDs, you’re very likely to end up using LG’s own WebOS platform since that brand shows up more than others. Sony often relies on Google TV software. While these services aren’t all created equal, none is so much better or worse than the others that they should affect your purchasing decision.

HDR

High-Dynamic Range is basically the whole sales pitch for OLED TVs. By making the dark areas and blacks basically devoid of illumination, it makes the brights seem even more brilliant. There are two HDR standards: the near-universal HDR10 and the less common Dolby Vision. Some critics suggest that Dolby Vision works better, but fewer places support the standard. Luckily there are very few TVs, if any, that support Dolby Vision but not HDR10. Realistically, the important thing to know is that any OLED worth buying says “HDR” on the box.

FAQs

Q: What are the disadvantages of OLED TV?

The primary issue with OLEDs tends to pop up as a lack of overall brightness. If you frequently watch TV in bright areas, you’re likely better off with something like a QLED or even a typical LED display, which can achieve higher levels of overall illumination.

OLEDs can sometimes suffer from a condition called “burn-in,” in which objects that stay on the screen too long can leave a permanent impression on the screen, impacting every picture. Modern OLEDs have come a long way in fixing this, though. 

Q: Which brand of OLED TV is best?

Sony and Vizio offer popular OLED TV sets, but LG dominates the OLED market because it’s the only company that can physically manufacture the panels. 

Q: Do OLED TVs degrade over time?

All TVs degrade over time, but OLEDs will typically do so a bit faster than the competition. You’ll notice the degradation as an overall loss in brightness and contrast. However, this process takes years with normal usage. If you’re planning to keep your TV on 24 hours a day for years at a time, you might want to opt for another style of TV.

OLEDs also once suffered from burn-in, a phenomenon in which on-screen objects that stayed in one place for too long would leave permanent imprints on the display. This has become much less of an issue in recent generations, though. 

Final thoughts on the best OLED TVs

If you’re in the market for the best possible picture quality in a TV, OLED is still the champ for the moment. With prices on the best OLED TVs coming down in recent years, this is actually a great time to take the leap into the OLED arena while competing technologies like Mini LED and Micro LED are still relatively early in their cycles. 

While you’re generally safe picking pretty much any LG OLED, make sure that you get the features that you need to support the style of content consumption you typically do. After all, that fancy new console isn’t all that fancy if you don’t have an HDMI 2.1 port to plug it into. 

Why trust us

Popular Science started writing about technology more than 150 years ago. There was no such thing as “gadget writing” when we published our first issue in 1872, but if there was, our mission to demystify the world of innovation for everyday readers means we would have been all over it. Here in the present, PopSci is fully committed to helping readers navigate the increasingly intimidating array of devices on the market right now.

Our writers and editors have combined decades of experience covering and reviewing consumer electronics. We each have our own obsessive specialties—from high-end audio to video games to cameras and beyond—but when we’re reviewing devices outside of our immediate wheelhouses, we do our best to seek out trustworthy voices and opinions to help guide people to the very best recommendations. We know we don’t know everything, but we’re excited to live through the analysis paralysis that internet shopping can spur so readers don’t have to.

The post The best OLED TVs in 2023 appeared first on Popular Science.

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The best USB-C monitors for 2023 https://www.popsci.com/gear/best-usb-c-monitors/ Thu, 09 Jun 2022 14:00:00 +0000 https://www.popsci.com/?p=448066
The Best USB-C Monitors Of 2023
Brandt Ranj / Popular Science

The best USB monitors are a sight to Type-C.

The post The best USB-C monitors for 2023 appeared first on Popular Science.

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The Best USB-C Monitors Of 2023
Brandt Ranj / Popular Science

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Best overall Gigabyte M32U is the best overall usb c monitor. Gigabyte M32U
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Gigabyte is somewhat new to monitors, but they already have some of the very best offerings.

Best gaming Acer Nitro XV282K KVbmiipruzx is the best gaming usb c monitor. Acer Nitro XV282K KVbmiipruzx
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The Acer Nitro XV282K is a well-rounded 4K gaming monitor with a USB-C connection that can charge a laptop.

Best budget Dell S2722QC Dell S2722QC
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Dell S2722QC is responsive, ergonomically sound, and perfectly priced. 

Even with wireless mice and keyboards and cable ties, our desks can still turn easily into a mess of cables, and an unlikely solution may be to get a USB-C monitor. USB-C promises to help clean things up by giving you just one cable to charge all your tech. With the right setup, you can even use a USB-C cable to charge a laptop and plug it into a monitor. Who needs HDMI or DisplayPort when one cable makes everything so easy? Here’s the thing: Not every monitor with a USB-C port will get the job done. You need the right laptop and the right display. The best USB-C monitors will offer great performance while mitigating cable clutter at your work setup.

How we chose the best USB-C monitors

I’ve been working as a tech critic for almost 10 years and have tested monitors and other computing gear for The Tech Report, TechnoBuffalo, and Popular Science. In that time, I’ve used some of the best and worst options from different brands out there.

To make our selections, we drew upon our monitor testing program, sourced opinions from critics at multiple publications and user impressions from across the internet, and leveraged our general knowledge of display technology. We looked for interesting monitors to fit a few different categories. Our picks have no price limit and displays can range anywhere from a few hundred dollars to a few thousand.

The best USB-C monitors: Reviews & Recommendations

You have the right laptop and a good Thunderbolt-certified USB cable. It’s time to pick out the best USB-C monitor for you. Whether you’re looking for an all-in-one option or something more particular, we’ve covered some of the most common use cases for which you might want to pick a monitor. All of these monitors have a USB-C port that features DP Alt Mode: Hopefully, that will spare you the time and heartache that comes from comparing too many spec sheets.

Best overall: Gigabyte M32U

Gigabyte

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Buy it used or refurbished: eBay

Why it made the cut: The Gigabyte M32U has a great feature set and a fair price, making it easy to recommend.

Specs

  • Size: 32-inch
  • Resolution: 3840×2160 (4K)
  • Panel type: IPS
  • Max refresh rate: 144 Hz
  • Ports: 1 x DisplayPort 1.4, 2 x HDMI 2.1 (24 Gbps), 1 x USB Type-C, 3 x USB 3.2 Gen1 Type-A
  • USB Type-C power delivery: 15W

Pros

  • 4K resolution
  • IPS panel ensures bright colors and great viewing angles
  • HDMI 2.1 ports, high refresh rate, and VRR are great for console gamers

Cons

  • Contrast is not ideal on IPS screens
  • Doesn’t charge your laptop while connected

Though PC component maker Gigabyte is relatively new to the monitor game, it already has found a strong foothold in the space with some truly great gaming displays. At $799, the Gigabyte M32U delivers a 4K IPS display with a maximum refresh rate of 144Hz over DisplayPort and HDMI. It’s one of only a handful of monitors right now with two HDMI 2.1 ports, making it an excellent choice for anyone plugging their PS5 or Xbox Series X into a monitor. In fact, you could connect an Xbox Series X, PlayStation 5, desktop gaming PC, and multimedia laptop to the same display, turning your desk into the ultimate tech hub. 

There are some minor flaws in the formula, though. The M32U only puts out 15W of power delivery through USB-C, so it won’t charge your laptop while you’re using it. Its HDMI 2.1 connections are limited to 24 Gbps of the spec’s 48 Gbps, too, so if you use all of the HDMI 2.1 features offered by a console or graphics card with HDMI 2.1 ports, it may introduce Display Stream Compression, which can limit supported resolutions on that device.

Even keeping those in mind, this is a killer monitor for the price and a display that should last you for years easily.

Best gaming: Acer Nitro XV282K KVbmiipruzx

Acer

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Buy it used or refurbished: eBay

Why it made the cut: HDMI 2.1 and a suite of gaming features make this a great monitor for any gamer.

Specs

  • Size: 28-inch
  • Resolution: 3840 x 2160 (4K)
  • Panel type: IPS
  • Max refresh rate: 144hz
  • Ports: 1 x DisplayPort 1.4, 2 x HDMI 2.1, 1 x USB Type-C, 4 x USB 3.2 Gen1
  • USB Type-C power delivery: 65W

Pros

  • HDMI 2.1, DisplayPort, and USB-C connectivity
  • IPS means great color and viewing angles
  • Charges your laptop while it’s plugged in

Cons

  • HDMI 2.1 ports are limited to 24 Gbps

Similar to our top pick, the Acer Nitro XV282K can serve incredible visuals for gaming, work, and everyday computing across all kinds of connections, including USB-C. This 4K, 144Hz IPS panel features DisplayPort for your desktop PC and HDMI 2.1 for consoles and recent graphics cards. It features VRR in the form of Nvidia G-Sync compatibility for most Nvidia graphics cards and AMD FreeSync Premium for AMD cards and the PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series consoles. The USB-C port offers up 65W of USB power delivery, so it can charge your laptop while you use it as a secondary display.

It also shares some of the Gigabyte M32U’s flaws—namely that its HDMI 2.1 ports on this display are limited to 24 Gbps and may compress high-resolution images when using certain niche HDMI 2.1-specific features. On the other hand, the Nitro XV282K can send up to 65W of power over USB-C, so laptop users connecting that way can keep their computers charged while using the display. 

It also costs $100 more on average than the M32U at launch. You could argue that the Acer Nitro XV282K delivers the complete dream of a USB-C gaming monitor, allowing you to route an entire gaming laptop set up through a single cable. The question is, are you willing to spend an extra $100 to achieve it?

Best for creatives: Dell UltraSharp 27 PremierColor (UP2720Q)

Dell

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Buy it used or refurbished: eBay

Why it made the cut: Bold, accurate 4K and a built-in colorimeter make this display a standout for creative professionals.

Specs

  • Size: 27-inch
  • Resolution: 3840×2160 (4K)
  • Panel type: IPS
  • Max refresh rate: 60 Hz
  • Ports: 1 x DisplayPort 1.4, 2 x HDMI 2.0, 1 x USB Type-C Upstream (Thunderbolt 3), 1 x USB Type-C Downstream (Thunderbolt 3), 2 x USB 3.2 Gen 2, 2 x USB 3.2 Gen 1
  • USB Type-C Power Delivery: 90W

Pros

  • Built-in colorimeter
  • 90W USB power delivery
  • Tons of ports

Cons

  • Very expensive
  • Low brightness

Professional artists, photographers, or video editors have a separate set of priorities when picking out a monitor for creating their work. Everyone wants a bold, beautiful monitor with vibrant colors, but creatives need the fullest, most accurate colors possible. That pursuit may lead them to consider a specialized display like the Dell UltraSharp 27 PremierColor, which is made—and priced—for professionals. This 27-inch IPS panel covers 100% Adobe RGB and 98% DCI-P3 Wide Color Gamut for incredibly deep and reliable color. Unlike most creative monitors, it features a built-in colorimeter, a piece of equipment you normally purchase separately to help you maintain that high color accuracy. Having it built in means you can schedule regular calibrations to run while you’re away and check the results when you’re ready to work.

Like many other creative screens, the UltraSharp 27 PremierColor has a shading hood to block out glare and reflections. It also offers picture-in-picture, allowing you to view the same image in different color spaces or compare images from two different sources. Even better, it features two Thunderbolt 3-certified USB Type-C ports with 90W power delivery, allowing you to plug in two laptops, charging both while you compare and contrast.

At well over $1,000, this is an expensive piece of professional equipment made for people who need to achieve this high standard. If you’re one of those people, this is one of the best options out there.

Best ultrawide: Gigabyte M34WQ

Gigabyte

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Buy it used or refurbished: eBay

Why it made the cut: There aren’t a ton of ultrawide displays out there with USB-C connectivity, and the Gigabyte M34WQ is affordable and solid.

Specs

  • Size: 34-inch
  • Resolution: 3440×1440 (21:9)
  • Panel type: IPS
  • Max refresh rate: 144 Hz
  • Ports: 1 x DisplayPort 1.4, 2 x HDMI 2.0, 1 x USB Type-C, 2 x USB 3.2 Gen1 Type-A 
  • USB Type-C power delivery: 15W

Pros

  • High refresh rate and low input lag
  • FreeSync Premium support
  • Vibrant color even at sharp angles

Cons

  • IPS contrast is somewhat limited

If “ultrawide” and “USB Type-C” are both on your monitor checklist, Gigabyte’s M34WQ should be your go-to option. There aren’t too many options combining the two niche categories, and Gigabyte’s option stands out for its performance and price. 

The $500-on-average M34WQ features a strong set of gaming features and lots of ports. The IPS display means vivid colors, and the screen offers an above-average 400 nits brightness to back that up. That also means limited contrast, with blacks looking closer to grays in a dark room as with any other IPS display. 

With DisplayPort and HDMI options, as well as two USB Type-A ports and, of course, the required USB-C port, you can plug a ton of stuff into this screen to make it the center of your desktop. On the other hand, its USB-C connection only delivers 15W of power … so it won’t charge your laptop. Likewise, the screen technically supports HDR, but it’s VESA DisplayHDR 400, so it doesn’t guarantee a tangible difference in games.

Like our best overall and budget screens, this is more of a generalist’s screen, albeit with a high refresh rate for gaming. It will serve its purpose well no matter how you use it. 

Best portable: Asus ROG Strix (XG16AHPE)

ASUS

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Buy it used or refurbished: eBay

Why it made the cut: A large battery and great gaming performance make the Asus ROG XG16AHPE a second display worth carrying around.

Specs

  • Size: 16-inch
  • Resolution: 1920 x 1080
  • Panel type: IPS
  • Max refresh rate: 144 Hz
  • Ports: 1 x DP Alt/Charging USB Type-C, 1 x Charging USB Type-C, 1 x Micro HDMI
  • USB Type-C power delivery: 0W

Pros

  • 7800mAH battery
  • Excellent gaming performance (input lag, response time, refresh rate)
  • Acceptable viewing angles

Cons

  • Low brightness

Our favorite portable monitor, the Asus ROG Strix XG16AHPE is an excellent 16-inch IPS panel that you can carry around wherever you go. Backed by a 7800 mAh battery, you can use it untethered from power for up to 3 hours without draining power from your device. It’s a no-compromise display with 100% sRGB color gamut coverage for bold colors and a gaming-grade 144Hz refresh rate with 3ms response time—and all for under $400. 

This is a display for gamers first, so it features a variety of connectivity options. Throw this and your Xbox Series S in a suitcase, along with the laptop your presentation is stored on, and you can set up a mobile workstation for productivity and gaming. There are cheaper portable USB Type-C displays, but the Strix XG16AHPE does everything perfectly.

Best budget: Dell S2722QC

Brandt Ranj

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Why it made the cut: The Dell S2722QC is a great 4K monitor for a laptop-centric work-from-home setup.

Specs

  • Size: 27-inch
  • Resolution: 3840×2160 (4K)
  • Panel type: VA LCD
  • Max refresh rate: 60Hz
  • Ports: 2 x HDMI 2.0, 1 x USB Type-C, 2 x USB-A, 1 x headphone jack
  • USB Type-C power delivery: 65W

Pros

  • 65W of USB Type-C Power Delivery means you can charge your laptop while you use it
  • Sturdy Stand
  • Rotation and height adjustment

Cons

  • Response rate too low for gaming

Dell’s S2722QC makes the dream of USB-C monitors a reality for many more people because of its low price point—the display’s cost fluctuates, but it’s possible to pick one up for under $300. The most surprising feature of this monitor is its overall build quality. Yes, Dell used plastic, but its stand and foot feel sturdy. This was true even when rotating the display 90 degrees or adjusting its height. Those ergonomic features made it possible to position the display at just the right spot to avoid neck strain.

This monitor’s USB-C port is the star of the show—our 13-inch MacBook Pro never had a problem connecting or charging—but it’s complemented by a pair of HDMI ports, two USB-A ports, and a headphone jack. Those USB-A ports come in handy if you want to connect a webcam and external hard drive to your machine when you plug your laptop into this display.

Overall, we were pleased with the performance of Dell’s S2722QC during common tasks like reading articles, streaming video, and being a part of digital meetings. The display’s color accuracy was good enough for casual photo editing, but professionals are better off with a display that covers 100% of the sRGB color spectrum. On the other hand, the monitor’s 4K resolution made those photos, videos, and text look sharp.

If anything, our time with the Dell S2722QC shows just how far USB-C monitors have come in the past couple of years. To get this level of performance from a display that’s this inexpensive is remarkable and proves the company’s commitment to pushing premium features in less expensive hardware.

Things to consider before buying one of the best USB-C monitors

USB Type-C—or, casually, USB-C—can get more complicated than you might expect if you’re using it for anything other than charging. While it was conceived as a universal cable, there are multiple versions of the technology that dictate how it can be used, which vary from device to device. On top of that, using USB-C to link a PC to a monitor requires certain technology in your computer. In other words, picking a USB-C monitor isn’t as easy as checking whether your display has a USB-C port.

Once you figure out which monitors suit your connectivity needs and which do not, you still have to pick one! That means wading through specs that may immediately make sense to the average PC user, including resolution, refresh rate, color accuracy, and panel type. We will focus on the specifics of picking a USB-C monitor here because it is complicated. Still, we recommend checking out some of our other monitor explainers (best ultrawide monitors, best 240hz monitors, and best monitors for color grading), where you can read thorough but efficient descriptions of the core specs that will help you pick a fantastic monitor for yourself.

Before we start: Does your PC support DisplayPort Alternate Mode?

Not all USB-C connections are created equal. In 2022, there were three versions of USB-C, or five if you include the physically identical but more feature-rich Thunderbolt 3 and Thunderbolt 4 connections. The more fully featured the port, the more expensive it is to manufacture, and USB-C ports that effectively transfer enough data to support a display are on the pricey side. As such, you’ll need to keep a sharp eye out and make sure that your PC and monitor both have the ports you need.

To connect your PC to a USB-C monitor, the computer must support a software feature called DisplayPort Alternate Mode, or DP Alt, which allows you to use your USB-C port as a DisplayPort output, transmitting video at full bandwidth. Here’s the tricky part: Not all USB-C ports support DP Alt mode; it is an optional feature that manufacturers can add if they want. There are easy ways to check whether your laptop has USB-C ports with DP Alt Mode, but you may be forced to check the specs for your laptop.

That said, there are a few visual markers that may quickly indicate if a specific USB-C port can be used to connect to a USB-C monitor.

PC Gaming photo
From left to right: The DisplayPort logo, the Thunderbolt logo, and the USB “SuperSpeed” logo. 

A “DP” DisplayPort logo placed next to a USB-C port means explicitly the port supports DisplayPort Alternate Mode. More broadly, the lightning bolt icon indicates that the USB-C port supports Thunderbolt 3 or 4. Thunderbolt is a more feature-rich version of USB-C and guarantees support for DP Alt Mode. It’s important to recognize these two, specifically, because there are also symbols that do not tell you whether your USB-C port can connect to a monitor: The USB SuperSpeed logo, for example, refers to the connection’s maximum bandwidth. (USB, as it turns out, is extremely complicated.)

So what laptops support DisplayPort Alternate Mode? Most modern Apple laptops should, including MacBook Pros made in 2016 or later and MacBook Air models released after 2017. Among Windows laptops, there is no hard and fast rule. You can specifically check spec sheets for DisplayPort Alternate Mode, check the laptop for either the Thunderbolt 3 or DisplayPort Alternate Mode logos.

There isn’t really a standard for how this is handled, unfortunately, so it may require some sleuthing. For example, the Dell XPS 13 Ultrabook doesn’t feature the markings to accommodate its more sleek look, and the spec sheet just says “2 Thunderbolt 4 ports.” Lenovo’s ThinkPad X1 Yoga features two USB ports that show the lightning bolt icon, and the spec sheet explicitly says “2 x USB-C Thunderbolt 3 (Power Delivery, DisplayPort).” Both laptops support the mode but label it differently.

Video over USB-C support

Once you’ve confirmed that your PC can connect to a monitor over USB-C, it’s important to ensure the monitor you pick out can do the same. Not every display that has USB-C ports can transmit video that way. To ensure a display supports video over USB-C, check the display’s specs for a Thunderbolt 3 port or higher, supports DP Alt mode, or lists USB-C as a supported video connection.

All the monitors on this list can transmit video over USB-C, so all of our picks will set you up for success.

You need the right cable, too …

We had to talk about the port on your laptop, and we had to talk about the port on your monitor. Why wouldn’t we also have to talk about the cable that runs between them? Connecting a PC and monitor is, unfortunately, not as simple as just grabbing the nearest Type-C cable out of your drawer and plugging it in. (We know you have one, but some of those chargers are 10 years old and you don’t even remember what they’re for, so get rid of them!)

Like the ports, there are many kinds of USB-C cables, and some are intentionally created on the cheap. The cable that will most likely come with your monitor will work fine. If, for some reason, you need to pick another, look for a Thunderbolt-certified USB Type-C cable to make sure that you’re getting something reputable and safe.

Can it charge, though?

One of the primary benefits of connecting a laptop to a monitor over USB-C is the promise that your monitor will be able to charge, or at least power, your computer while it’s plugged in. As it turns out, though, this feature is a niche within a niche. A monitor may be able to charge or power a laptop, depending on how many Watts (W) it delivers to power-hungry devices and how much power your laptop uses. Between those two factors, a simple question gets pretty complicated; even official explainers like this one from PC accessory company Belkin can be pretty vague.

Laptops typically require between 20W of charging power for a thin productivity laptop to upwards of 100W for gaming laptops with large graphics cards. Right now, the highest wattages offered on monitors with USB-C ports are 65W and 90W, which should be enough to charge most compatible laptops. Many monitors, however, feature 15W charging, enough to extend your laptop’s battery life a bit if it’s running while you’re plugged in. A 15W connection is enough to charge a phone, tablet, or any other small device you might want to plug in.

We hope that, a few years from now, this will get much simpler. At the very least, we hope manufacturers standardize how monitor-grade USB-C connections work. For now, though, it requires a fair amount of research to predict the compatibility of a specific laptop and USB-C monitor.

FAQs

Q: Is it worth buying a USB-C monitor?

That’s a good question! A USB-C connection simplifies plugging a laptop into a monitor and, in some cases, can power any laptop plugged in that way. On the other hand, finding a laptop and monitor supporting such a connection can be painstaking and expensive.

If you are building a home office or gaming battlestation built around a laptop, using a USB-C monitor can clean up your desk’s cable clutter while making the laptop much more portable when you have to get up and go. Just one cable to unplug, and you’re on your way. You’re probably better off sticking with DisplayPort for desktops and “desktop replacement”-style gaming laptops, however.

Q: Can USB Type-C do 144Hz/4K/etc.?

If your display’s USB Type-C port supports DP Alt Mode, the connection will allow for the monitor’s maximum refresh rate and resolution. Our picks output at 4K and/or 144Hz via USB-C.

Q: Can USB-C support dual monitors?

Some, but not all, USB-C monitors allow you to connect multiple displays using that connection. You’ll want to consult your PC’s manual and manufacturer to determine whether you can and how it will work with your specific display. For example, Apple says you can connect a display to both MacBook Pro USB-C ports. With Windows PCs, some displays allow you to “daisy chain” USB-C monitors, plugging your PC into one monitor, then connecting a second monitor to the first.

If you want to use multiple monitors but don’t care specifically about using a specific type of port, you can always connect one monitor via USB-C and another via DisplayPort, HDMI, or any other connections you have on your PC and monitor.

Q: How much do USB-C monitors cost?

This depends on its size, resolution, ports, and other features. You can spend as little as $299.99 or as much as $1,298.

Final thoughts on the best USB-C monitors

Finding a great monitor that fits the bill can become difficult ss your needs get more specific. Finding a monitor with a USB-C port isn’t too tough, but finding one with a USB-C port that supports DP Alt Mode and delivers enough power to charge a laptop limits you to a pretty small group of displays. It’s so small, in fact, that we’re not quite ready to make 65W a prerequisite for making our list. Add to that the fact that you need to check your laptop to make sure it’s compatible, and picking a USB-C monitor becomes a fairly complicated task. Search for information about your particular laptop and USB Type-C before splurging on one of the best USB-C monitors, but if you have the right setup, plugging your monitor in this way will make your workspace more convenient and flexible.

Why trust us

Popular Science started writing about technology more than 150 years ago. There was no such thing as “gadget writing” when we published our first issue in 1872, but if there was, our mission to demystify the world of innovation for everyday readers means we would have been all over it. Here in the present, PopSci is fully committed to helping readers navigate the increasingly intimidating array of devices on the market right now.

Our writers and editors have combined decades of experience covering and reviewing consumer electronics. We each have our own obsessive specialties—from high-end audio to video games to cameras and beyond—but when we’re reviewing devices outside of our immediate wheelhouses, we do our best to seek out trustworthy voices and opinions to help guide people to the very best recommendations. We know we don’t know everything, but we’re excited to live through the analysis paralysis that internet shopping can spur so readers don’t have to.

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The best monitors for programming in 2023 https://www.popsci.com/gear/best-monitors-for-programming/ Thu, 30 Jun 2022 11:00:00 +0000 https://www.popsci.com/?p=452595
The best monitors for programming composited
Stan Horaczek

Get through a long day of coding with comfort using one of our top picks for programmer-friendly displays.

The post The best monitors for programming in 2023 appeared first on Popular Science.

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The best monitors for programming composited
Stan Horaczek

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Best Overall LG 34WN80C-B UltraWide Monitor is the best monitor overall for programming. LG 34WN80C-B UltraWide Monitor
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Plenty of display real estate, plus the ability to split the screen, make this wall-mountable USB-C monitor extra efficient.

Best 4K The HP 27-inch UHD is one of the best monitors for gaming. HP 27-inch 4K UHD
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Ultra-thin bezels, blue light protection, low-blur technology, and great tilt range make for an optimum viewing option.

Best Value Samsung Business S27R650FDN is the best value monitor for programming. Samsung Business S27R650FDN
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Wide viewing angles, plus equally robust connectivity options, are packed in an energy-saving easy on the eyes display.

Programming and living behind a screen are basically synonymous, so for high-quality coding and study you deserve comfort and an optimized monitor for programming is a great place to start. While the stereotype of the hacking coder, slouched into a chair, wearing a hoodie, and blasting their eyes with a bright screen in a dark room is fun to think about, the result will only be a horrible experience.

Instead, if you’re a real coder of today, you probably realize that you have a long, steady career ahead of you. Increased comfort and feeling good on the job will lead to a fruitful workday and a clear head, ready to innovate. With work from home not going anywhere soon, especially in the knowledge work sector, it is falling more and more on the shoulders of the worker to get their own computer equipment. As a result, we invite you to consider upgrading your life with one of our best monitors for programming picks.

How we chose the best monitors for programming

Staring at screens, typing out notes, and looking through comparison tables is something both the writer and the programmer handle on a daily basis, so personal experience helped guide this guide. Discussing the matter of picking a monitor with software engineers themselves helps too, of course, with key concerns including size and resolution. I also looked at user impressions, their concerns, and what critics see as coming trends, such as more working from home; for these reasons, I adjusted toward results that prioritize comfort and eye health after long-term usage.

Ultimately, good monitors for programming are good monitors for computing. Expect to see some overlap in how programming monitors are evaluated with other categories of monitor, such as gaming monitors and trading monitors, etc. The key differences, such as being used for work activities with less chances of a break, are going to be where we put in a significant portion of our comparison efforts, but a good monitor will always be a good monitor.

The best monitors for programming: Reviews & Recommendations

The best monitors for programming include a wide range of brands, makes, and features. Again, a good monitor for programming will be good for a wide variety of uses. Any of the monitors on this list will be good for any purpose, but also happen to have some qualities that give them the edge over the competition when it comes to quality coding time.

Best overall: LG 34WN80C-B UltraWide Monitor

Why it made the cut: This monitor is ultrawide, the perfect size, and has on-screen controls to make it the best possible experience for people wanting to use multiple windows at once.

Specs

  • Size: 34”
  • Resolution: 3440 x 1440 pixels
  • Screen: Anti-glare, Hard coating

Pros

  • Built-in screen-splitting options
  • USB-C works great with the MacBook Pro
  • Excellent height adjustability for neck comfort
  • 100 x 100 VESA wall-mountable

Cons

  • Expensive

The LG 34WN80C-B Ultrawide is designed for intensive programming at home. This is seen in its On-Screen tech, maneuverability, and MacBook Pro connectability. It also happens to be one of the best ultrawide monitors for working at home.

The first way this can be seen is through the huge customization ability available through LG’s On-Screen control options. Using this feature you can subdivide your screen into defined boxes. Click, drag, and pop your relevant windows into place to fill each section and get the most out of the monitor. You’ll notice that you have space for debugging windows, coding screens, GitHub pages, and more all on one monitor without feeling cramped. Naturally, the 34-inch ultrawide size of this LG plays into that, but the on-screen controls will certainly pull their weight.

Next, let’s talk about maneuverability. This monitor does a great job of accommodating coders of any height by having just over half a foot of vertical height adjustment. Furthermore, this is accomplished without finicky knobs or difficult-to-reach panels, you can just move it with your hands and the spring-loaded mechanism of the stand will take care of the rest.

Finally, consider that this monitor supports USB-C, making it a really good combo with MacBook Pro laptops. Considering that macOS is a preferred programming environment, there’s a good chance that either your current or next company computer will be one. There are other good monitor options for MacBook Pro users but not all of them will prove to be best for programmers.

Best 4K: HP 27-inch 4K UHD

Why it made the cut: This is a 4K monitor for programming with built-in blue light filtering, excellent tilting, and the ultra high resolution you deserve.

Specs

  • Size: 27”
  • Resolution: 3840 x 2160 pixels
  • Tilt: 5 degrees forward, 16 degrees backward

Pros

  • AMD FreeSync for low blur
  • Ultra-thin bezel
  • Built-in blue light protection
  • Great backward tilt range

Cons

  • Not VESA compatible for mounting

The HP 27-inch 4K UHD provides a decent size while giving you the 4K resolution you’ll need for intensive graphical projects and standard computer use. The added blue light protection that comes built-in with the monitor is a nice addition for making sure a couple of crunch time hours at night don’t cut into your success the next day.

Multi-monitor setups will particularly enjoy the sub-quarter-inch bezel around the sides of the monitor. Quickly flicking your eyes to your other monitor is comfortable and not immersion-breaking like it can be with some monitors. In fact, if you manage to bump your monitors close enough together, it can feel practically like one monitor from a vision perspective.

One thing I wasn’t so happy about with this monitor was the lack of VESA mount holes. Luckily, the monitor is still quite adjustable with six degrees downward tilt and 17 degrees upward, making this HP quite great for those of you that like to tower over your monitor as you work. Ultimately, we think you’ll likely not miss the ability to pair this with a monitor arm unless that just so happens to be a priority for you.

It all comes together to give us an outstanding monitor for programming that fits in well with HP’s solid general-purpose monitors. While this HP fits in as the best 4K monitor for programming, you should certainly check out the others if you are an HP fan.

Best value: Samsung Business S27R650FDN

Samsung

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Why it made the cut: This monitor approaches budget pricing while still having great features for professionals.

Specs

  • Size: 27”
  • Resolution: 1920 x 1080 pixels
  • Viewing angle: 172 degrees

Pros

  • Includes Eye Saver Mode
  • Wide viewing angle for collaboration
  • Full connectivity panel
  • Energy-saving mode

Cons

  • Unreliable DisplayPort connection

The Samsung Business S27R650FDN has “business” right in the name but does it hold up to being the best value monitor for programming work? Based on the features and specs that Samsung has managed to pour into it, we’d respond with a resounding “yes.” That’s without mentioning one of the most businesslike features of all, its economical energy-saving mode and bargain sticker price.

With workers in mind, the Samsung Business uses the included Eye Saver Mode to reduce blue light from the monitor. Flicker-Free technology is also included to keep your eyes comfortable and feeling rested through a long shift.

Especially useful for teams and collaborative efforts, the Samsung Business has a 172-degree viewing angle and a wide connectivity panel to support a wide range of devices, including those that use USB 3.0 (including B type), USB 2.0, DisplayPort, HDMI, and old school RGB. For those with a ton of devices, this will certainly be the best value monitor for programming. The only caveat to this is that the DisplayPort is touchy and unreliable, dropping for some users.

Best for gaming and programming: Samsung Odyssey G9

Samsung

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Why it made the cut: The Samsung Odyssey G9 is the best monitor for gaming and programming due to its size, resolution, and high-performance gaming screen.

Specs

  • Size: 49”
  • Resolution: 5120 x 1440 pixels
  • Refresh rate: 240Hz

Pros

  • Gigantic screen size
  • Vivid color display
  • Intensive curve

Cons

  • Very expensive

Here’s another fantastic ultrawide option for your gaming and programming pleasure. Much like our pick for the overall best monitor for programming, the Samsung Odyssey G9 provides a massive screen ready to fit many windows, charts, graphs, debug menus, and the like.

What’s different about the G9 is that it is also one of the best ultrawide gaming monitors, with insanely high refresh rates of 240Hz and a 1 millisecond response time. Add on top of this the AMD FreeSync technology that ensures that your monitor matches a compatible graphics card frame-by-frame and you have a recipe for back-to-back after-work headshots.

Additionally, the G9 has a curve at a degree that copies the curve of the human eye. This helps reduce the need to constantly bend your neck to take in the fullness of the screen. That doesn’t mean that you’ll never wish to crane your neck or tilt your head while using a G9, of course, but you should notice a subtle reduction in neck and shoulder stress when compared to other curved monitors for programming.

One thing to keep in mind is that the G9 is bigger than nearly any other monitor out there, which makes it a great choice of large monitor for programming. Unfortunately, the sticker price has had the chance to measure every square inch of the G9 and has been able to keep up with it. While this is certainly not a cheap monitor for programming, it will keep you happy.

Best portable: SideTrak Swivel 14”

SideTrak

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Why it made the cut: This portable monitor naturally attaches to your laptop to give you the dual-monitor office feel on the go.

Specs

  • Size: 14”
  • Resolution: 1920 x 1080 pixels
  • Weight: 1.5 pounds (3.1 with attachments)

Pros

  • Connects to any laptop
  • No tool installation
  • Plug and play, download-free installation

Cons

  • Designed for right-side attachment only

As working on the go has become more and more popular, especially in the programming field, the desire to have a second monitor to travel with us has grown immensely. This can be seen with the expansive list of fantastic portable monitors coming out over the past few years. So, what makes the SideTrak Swivel the best portable monitor for programming?

While maintaining the high quality of the other portable monitors, the SideTrak Swivel has superior attachment and connectability options. With a combo of sticky pads and computer-safe magnets, the monitor attaches directly next to the side of your laptop’s screen. Unlike other portable monitors that are stuck resting in a stand, you can tilt it to the angle you’re used to in the office. Really, that’s what it all comes down to, recreating the dual-monitor office setup that you like anywhere you go.

Furthermore, the SideTrak Swivel has a ton of connectivity options. You can have USB-C, with DisplayPort capabilities, for your MacBook Pro or use standard USB-A or HDMI for other notebook computers. It’s even compatible with Chromebook and can connect to just about any device while remaining plug-and-play.

The only disappointing thing about the SideTrak experience is the fact that it could just as easily be called the RightSideTrak. The attachment mechanism is designed to be attached to the left part of the monitor. If, like me, you’re used to having your second monitor on the left, you can do so, but you’ll be stuck with an unsightly upside-down monitor as a result.

Best budget: BenQ GW2780

BenQ

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Why it made the cut: This monitor checks all of the basic boxes, gives you a bit extra, and still has a price tag worthy of the best budget monitor for programming. 

Specs

  • Size: 27”
  • Resolution: 1920 x 1080 pixels
  • Screen: Glossy LED

Pros

  • Intelligent brightness adjustment
  • Wall mountable with 100 x 100 VESA
  • Built-in cable management

Cons

  • Low-quality built-in speakers

Our best budget monitor for programming, the BenQ GW2780, stays cheap but has a lot of nifty features that make it worth your while for programming or any other purpose. 

You can see the standard features that make it great for programming with the 27-inch screen or the fact that it has 100 x 100 VESA mount capabilities.

However, it is the extra features that aren’t costing you any extra that make the BenQ outcompete other budget monitor contenders. One cool example is a sensor that adjusts your screen’s brightness for you automatically. Another is the built-in cord control in the stand. Sure, these aren’t features most of you are begging for, but it’s these kinds of thoughtful touches that show BenQ is going the extra mile to make a worthwhile product for the budget tier.

One extra you probably won’t love, however, is the included speakers. They’re low-quality and quiet, and even people who aren’t professed audiophiles tend to struggle to like them. If you are in need of some speakers on the cheap, there are quite a few desktop speakers or budget Bluetooth speakers out there that will better suit your needs.

What to consider when buying the best monitors for programming

Getting monitors for programming, much like getting monitors for home offices, can be tricky because you’ll want the monitor to be good for other purposes, too. Luckily, many of the factors that translate to being one of the best monitors for programming, also make for great general monitors. For example, programmers are likely to care a lot about size but people watching Netflix aren’t complaining about monitors being too big. We’ll examine all of the big factors in this sort of multimodal way, including resolution and comfort.

Size

This one is relatively straightforward. In almost every case, bigger is better. The ability to have multiple windows open at the same time and look at things side-by-side cannot be overstated. Moving your head from one monitor to another can make direct comparisons tricky, whereas having everything ready at a glance will help keep you in a happy programming flow state.

While there are some people that might look at a very large screen and feel overwhelmed, it is easy to make your windows smaller and focus on what is important. You cannot do this the other way around—making windows larger than the screen to be more comfortable. Getting something a tad bigger than you’re used to will likely go fine, you’ll get acclimated to the larger size, but going too small will trap you in.

So, when might it be bad to have a larger monitor? When the monitor is so big that it pushes out your other monitors. Sure, the advantages of side-by-side comparison given by a large monitor are important, but that doesn’t mean that having the ability to throw something up in full screen on another monitor is less important. Finding balance and what works appropriately with your given desk space is critical.

Resolution

In the world of movies, we always seem to see blocky, pixelated coding text. The real world won’t have it. Resolution is the most important factor for getting a crisp, easy to look at picture out of your monitor. The higher the resolution, the more pixels you’ll see in a given patch of monitor space.

Resolution is defined by both numbers and letters, which can be somewhat confusing. The numbers give a reading of the pixels shown, horizontally and vertically. For example, a resolution of 1920 x 1080 shows 1920 pixels from right to left and 1080 pixels from top to bottom. Resolution numbers are often abbreviated to just show the vertical number—1920 x 1080 is known in this system as 1080p.

Letter abbreviations are also commonly used. Some of the most common abbreviations are as follows: FHD (Full High Definition) is 1920 x 1080; QHD (Quad High Definition) is 2560 x 1440; and UHD (Ultra High Definition) is 3840 x 2160. Interestingly, despite only getting to 3,840 pixels wide, this is commonly referred to as 4K.

So, what resolution is good for programming? This is another case of the bigger, the better, but we recommend going for at least 1080p, with 1440p and higher offering the best experience. One often unmentioned, but nonetheless worthy, note is that your desktop space changes with your resolution. So, if you’re the type of programmer with about 40 to 50 files and folders on your desktop, plus a dozen or so game shortcuts, then you’ll definitely want to be opting for the highest resolution possible!

Comfort

It’s a sad fact but you’re probably going to be working more often than you’d like to be. Be comfortable while you do it. For this review, we’re looking at three key comfort factors that can work for you:

Range of tilt: Your monitor’s ability to tilt will add comfort by increasing the flexibility of its facing. Having a monitor that is tilted too high or too low could have the negative effect of subconsciously forcing your head to match, giving you headaches or unnecessary shoulder tension.

Ability to wall mount: Rigging up your monitor with a reliable wall mount or desk stand will give you the advantages of increased desk space and heightened maneuverability of your monitor. Look for VESA-compatible monitors, with 100 x 100 mounting surfaces giving you the most options in terms of wall mounts to buy and 200 x 200 being an okay alternative for ultrawide monitors.

Eye comfort: Screens that are too bright, glossy, or that suffer from screen flickering can all cause discomfort to the eyes. Nowadays, monitors are also providing built-in blue light blocking to improve users’ sleep quality. All of these factors can greatly affect how you perceive your time with your monitor and the quality of your work, so much so that we’d recommend you check out our monitors for eye strain if this is a recurring problem for you.

FAQs

Q: How much does a monitor for programming cost?

A computer monitor for programming will probably cost around $300 to $600, though that can change depending on the category. For example, the best value monitor for programming might come in under $250, while the best monitor for gaming and programming might go over $1,000.

Q: What is a good monitor size for programming?

The best monitors for programming should typically be at least 24 inches but the bigger the better. Exceptions obviously exist, such as when you are getting a portable monitor, but the “big equals better” rule will apply for most coders.

Q: How many monitors are good for programming?

Two or three monitors are best for programming. In the modern age, single monitor setups feel limiting for any use but can feel especially straining when you are dealing with multiple windows simultaneously. While our pick for the best monitor for programming, the LG 34WN80C-B UltraWide, has on-screen tech to make this easier with a single monitor, the vast majority of monitors do not. At the same time, there can be too much of a good thing—don’t let your desk space get conquered by too many monitors.

Final thoughts on the best monitors for programming

Getting one of the best monitors for programming doesn’t have to be difficult. If you find a monitor that is easy to use in daily life, treats your eyes well, and connects properly with your work computer, then you’ve probably found a decent programming monitor. Still, considering a unique monitor like the LG 34WN80C-B UltraWide or the business-minded Samsung Business S27R650FDN might give you the extra edge you’ve been looking for.

Why trust us

Popular Science started writing about technology more than 150 years ago. There was no such thing as “gadget writing” when we published our first issue in 1872, but if there was, our mission to demystify the world of innovation for everyday readers means we would have been all over it. Here in the present, PopSci is fully committed to helping readers navigate the increasingly intimidating array of devices on the market right now.

Our writers and editors have combined decades of experience covering and reviewing consumer electronics. We each have our own obsessive specialties—from high-end audio to video games to cameras and beyond—but when we’re reviewing devices outside of our immediate wheelhouses, we do our best to seek out trustworthy voices and opinions to help guide people to the very best recommendations. We know we don’t know everything, but we’re excited to live through the analysis paralysis that internet shopping can spur so readers don’t have to.

The post The best monitors for programming in 2023 appeared first on Popular Science.

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The best gaming monitors under $200 of 2023 https://www.popsci.com/gear/best-gaming-monitors-under-200/ Mon, 06 Jun 2022 22:02:55 +0000 https://www.popsci.com/?p=447708
Best gaming monitors under $200 sliced header
Stan Horaczek

These ultra-affordable monitors still offer great performance for everyday PC and console gaming.

The post The best gaming monitors under $200 of 2023 appeared first on Popular Science.

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Best overall AOC G2490VX is the best overall gaming monitor under $200. AOC G2490VX
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The AOC G2490VX has all the specs we look for in a basic gaming monitor including 1080p, 144Hz gameplay.

Best curved AOC C24G1A is the best curved gaming monitor under $200. AOC C24G1A
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The AOC C24G1A features a few small luxuries, including a fully adjustable stand and a 1500R curve.

Best for consoles Acer Nitro QG241Y pbmiipx is the best gaming monitor under $200 for consoles. Acer Nitro QG241Y Pbmiipx
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The Acer Nitro QG241Y Pbmiipx has three ports, including an HDMI 2.0 port that allows for high refresh rates on PS5 and Xbox Series X.

First things first: You should set your sights relatively low if you have $200 or less to spend on your new gaming monitor. The best monitors—the ones that support 4K, high refresh rates, and superior color accuracy—often cost hundreds, if not thousands of dollars. Not everyone needs the best of the best, though. Many older and/or less expensive systems can’t take advantage of resource-intensive specialty features. The best gaming monitors under $200 meet PC players’ basic needs, bringing their games to life for as little as possible.

How we picked the best gaming monitors under $200

As a critic covering games and gaming hardware, I’ve written about computing and monitors for Popular Science, Popular Mechanics, and NBC Select. I’ve researched, tested, and reviewed dozens of gaming monitors, and have a strong sense of which specs are important, and which are not.

To pick the best gaming monitors under $200, we relied on my mix of hands-on testing, peer suggestions, user impressions, and information from professional reviews. We focused on core specifications crucial to a great gaming monitor: resolution, frame rate, connectivity options, and price.

The best gaming monitors under $200: Reviews & Recommendations

The best gaming monitors under $200 come from a few well-known monitor manufacturers, primarily Acer and AOC. Many of our recommendations feature similar specs, including a 1080p resolution, a 24-inch screen, a VA panel, and a 144Hz response time. Though the range of specs is limited, they can still make your games look good.

Best overall: AOC G2490VX

AOC

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Buy it used or refurbished: eBay

Why it made the cut: The AOC G2490VX gives all the specs you need at the price you want.

Specs

  • Size: 23.8-inch
  • Native resolution: 1920 x 1080
  • Panel type: VA
  • Refresh rate: 144Hz
  • Response time: 1ms
  • Ports: HDMI 1.4, DisplayPort 1.2, audio out
  • Ergonomics: Tilt, VESA mountable
  • Variable refresh rate: AMD FreeSync
  • Built-in speakers: No

Pros

  • Very affordable 
  • Fast refresh rate and response time
  • 350-nit peak brightness

Cons

  • Some ghosting out of the box

Plenty of monitors hit 1080p, a 144Hz refresh rate, and 1ms response time, but very few give it to you for the same price as the AOC G2490VX. This essentialist monitor may lack some of the trapping found in more expensive displays like extra ports and HDR, but its core specs are right on the money.

It isn’t without problems. Reports suggest you should expect some ghosting issues with fast-moving objects, but these are solved through adjusting the monitor and variable refresh rate settings.

Best curved: AOC C24G1A

AOC

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Buy it used or refurbished: Amazon

Why it made the cut: Great ergonomics and improved connectivity make the AOC C24G1A an easy recommendation.

Specs

  • Size: 24-inch
  • Native resolution: 1920 x 1080
  • Panel type: VA
  • Refresh rate: 144Hz (165Hz overclocked)
  • Response time: 1ms
  • Ports: HDMI 2.0 (2), DisplayPort 1.2, audio out
  • Ergonomics: Swivel, tilt, height adjust, VESA mountable
  • Variable refresh rate: AMD FreeSync
  • Built-in speakers: No

Pros

  • Excellent performance
  • Multiple HDMI 2.0 port
  • Adjustable stand

Cons

  • No built-in speakers
  • Slightly over $200

At $215, the AOC C24G1A 1500R curve feels extremely luxurious. Curved displays tend to be a little more expensive than flat panels, so color us surprised when we found one and that it offers better connectivity and ergonomics than most in its price range. No, it’s no ultrawide monitor, but it’s also not going to stretch your budget like one.

While every other monitor on our list is only tilt adjustable, the C24G1A offers full adjustability, leading to much more customizable viewing angles. It also offers strong performance, with a 144Hz refresh rate screen that can be overclocked to 165Hz via the settings menu. HDMI 2.0 connectivity is appreciated here, as it handles color depth and refresh rates better than HDMI 1.4.

Best for consoles: Acer Nitro QG241Y Pbmiipx

Acer

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Buy it used or refurbished: eBay

Why it made the cut: HDMI 2.0, HDR10, and built-in speakers are enough to make the Acer Nitro QG241Y a solid, if basic, screen for PC and consoles.

Specs

  • Size: 23.8 inches
  • Native resolution: 1920 x 1080
  • Panel type: VA
  • Refresh rate: 144Hz (165Hz overclocked)
  • Response time: 1ms
  • Ports: HDMI 2.0, HDMI 1.4, DisplayPort 1.2, audio out
  • Ergonomics: Tilt, VESA mountable
  • Variable refresh rate: AMD FreeSync
  • Built-in speakers: Yes

Pros

  • Great performance
  • HDR10 support
  • Two HDMI ports

Cons

  • 250-nit peak brightness
  • Only one of two HDMI ports is HDMI 2.0

The Acer Nitro QG241Y Pbmiipx has a solid combination of features for hooking up game consoles, as well as a gaming PC.

Does it have the finer points that the best monitors for PS5 and Xbox Series systems sing? It does not. The Nitro QG241Y is a 1080p, 144Hz monitor, but it has two HDMI ports, one of which is HDMI 2.0, which supports 1080p at 120Hz, opening the door for high frame rates in games like Destiny 2 and DOOM Eternal, which run at 120 frames-per-second in 1080p on the PS5 and Series X.

The Acer Nitro QG241Y is also the only monitor on our list to feature HDR10, the same HDR standard found on most TV. Unfortunately, it’s a relatively dim panel—just 250 nits—so don’t expect to see a huge benefit in dark corners.

Best 27-inch: AOC 27G2S

AOC

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Buy it used or refurbished: eBay

Why it made the cut: A 27-inch monitor for under $200 is hard to come by, but the AOC 27G2S has you covered.

Specs

  • Size: 27-inch
  • Native resolution: 1920 x 1080
  • Panel type: VA
  • Refresh rate: 165Hz
  • Response time: 1ms
  • Ports: Two HDMI 1.4, DisplayPort 1.4, ,VGA port
  • Ergonomics: TIlt, Swivel, Height, VESA mountable
  • Variable refresh rate: Adaptive-Sync
  • Built-in speakers: No

Pros

  • Fast performance
  • 350-nit peak brightness
  • Four-directional navigation knob
  • Great price for size

Cons

  • Some ghosting out of the box

With a tight budget and room for only one or two little luxuries, a 27-inch monitor doesn’t really seem like a great way to get the best bang for your buck. Still, size matters most to some people, so we wanted to make sure you know that you can find a 27-inch display for less than $200.

A larger variation on our top pick, the AOC 27G2S is a fast, affordable, no-frills monitor. Like its 24-inch counterpart, it covers the basics that we look for in a monitor: 1080p resolution, 165Hz, 1ms response time. At 27 inches, you’re trading some pixel density for more screen real estate, which will make the little details in your game look a little less sharp. There’s no denying that it’s fun to play games and watch streaming content on a bigger screen, though.

Best budget: Sceptre E248W-19203R

Sceptre

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Buy it used or refurbished: eBay

Why it made the cut: At $140, The Sceptre E248W-19203R is very, very affordable, and makes for a great companion for older systems.

Specs

  • Size: 24-inch
  • Native resolution: 1920 x 1080
  • Panel type: VA
  • Refresh rate: 75Hz
  • Response time: 5ms
  • Ports: HDMI 1.4 (2), VGA, audio in, audio out
  • Ergonomics: Tilt, VESA mountable 
  • Variable refresh rate: AMD FreeSync
  • Built-in speakers: Yes

Pros

  • Very affordable
  • Built-in speakers
  • Two HDMI ports

Cons

  • 75 Hz refresh rate
  • 5ms response time

Sometimes you just need a display. When you need a new gaming monitor and want to spend as little as humanly possible, the Sceptre E248W-19203R offers an impressively cheap screen. While its performance won’t turn heads, its price tag is one of the lowest in the gaming space. For less than $150, you get a slim, utilitarian 1080p VA panel with multiple HDMI ports and built-in speakers. 

More than the other monitors on this list, this Sceptre screen comes with some very serious tradeoffs. You only get a 75Hz refresh rate, which may be fine for players with cheaper systems, but seriously limits the lifespan of the monitor. Likewise, it features a reported 5ms response time, which shouldn’t ruin any game, but is dramatically higher than most other displays.

There’s nothing wrong with this display, but we only recommend this display because of its low price. Please keep that in mind.

What to consider before buying one of the best gaming monitors under $200

Shopping for a monitor can be a headache. Most models are very poorly named with long strings of numbers and letters, so comparison shopping feels a bit like staring at alphabet soup. Their core specs can feel similarly hard to parse, especially for people who don’t want to spend all day scrutinizing spreadsheets.

In this case, our budget—targeting the best gaming monitors under $200—thankfully narrows down our options. Still, you will have to make a choice and we want you to be able to do so confidently. Let’s go over the essential qualities that can make or break a monitor at any price so that you can find the perfect complement to a budget gaming PC.

Resolution and size

Resolution and size are often thought of as unrelated. Well, they shouldn’t be—the two affect each other in profound ways.

Resolution indicates the number of pixels your monitor can show. Generally speaking, the higher your resolution is, the more detailed your image will be. As your monitor’s screen gets bigger, however, you’ll need more pixels to achieve the same level of detail. You don’t just want a lot of pixels, you want strong pixel density.

Nearly all gaming monitors under $200 have a resolution of 1920 x 1080 pixels, commonly called 1080p or “Full HD.” In 2022, 1080p is the baseline resolution for PC monitors. Baseline doesn’t necessarily mean bad, though: A 1080p monitor looks sharp on a 24-inch screen, the smallest of the three common monitor sizes. That said, small details can start to look a little less clear on 27- and 32-inch displays, so we recommend sticking with a 24-inch monitor. That said, we do have an especially strong 27-inch option on our list for players who insist on a larger screen.

Refresh rate

Refresh rate, measured in Hertz (Hz), refers to the number of times your monitor can draw a new image each second. Refresh rate is especially important for gaming since your monitor’s refresh rate effectively sets your maximum frame rate. In competitive circles, a high refresh rate may take priority over resolution: In fast-paced competitive games like Fortnite or Apex Legends, having the smoothest, fastest frame rate can give you a competitive edge. 

Generally, we recommend looking for a 144Hz refresh rate for gaming monitors, which allows you to run many games at the maximum frame rate your PC can handle. For $200, nearly all of our picks hit that basic threshold, though there are some exceptions, which will make more sense for casual players and those with older systems.

Response time

Every computer you use has a slight delay between pressing a key and seeing an action take place on screen. While most of this delay has to do with processing time, your monitor’s response time plays a role in generating input lag. Most gaming monitors advertise a very low response time, usually 1 millisecond or less. As with frame rate, competitive players will want the lowest possible response time since even a single frame can be consequential. Most of the monitors we recommend, even at a sub-$200 price point, feature a 1ms response time.

Panel type

The physical screen of a monitor, the display panel, comes in three different types: Twisted Nematic (TN), Vertical Alignment (VA), and In-Plane Switching (IPS). Without getting too technical, each one has strengths and weaknesses, but most of the recommendations on this list feature a VA panel. VA panels provide better color balance than TN panels while staying more affordable than IPS panels.

Variable refresh rate

Variable refresh rate is a display feature that allows your monitor to sync its refresh rate with the output of the PC or console to which it is connected. Using it delivers smooth images devoid of any hiccups like screen tearing or visual artifacting.

Gaming monitors rely on one of two variable refresh rate formats: Nvidia G-Sync and AMD FreeSync. These technologies, particularly G-Sync, were designed to pair with graphics cards made by Nvidia and AMD, respectively. That said, there is an increasing amount of cross-compatibility between the two.

Make sure you know whether a monitor supports variable refresh rate and, if so, whether it features G-Sync or FreeSync. We generally recommend getting a G-Sync monitor if you use an Nvidia graphics card. FreeSync is more popular among budget monitors, and every monitor on our list supports it.

FAQs

Q: Can you get a good gaming monitor for $200?

Many players, especially those with older gaming PCs or using a PC made for the office, can find a gaming monitor that fits their needs for $200. At this price, you’re aiming for a stripped-down experience, but you can get two of the core specs we look for—1080p and 144Hz—in the best gaming monitors under $200.

Q: What is the best Hz for gaming?

The refresh rate you want to target, measured in Hertz (Hz), will vary based on your PC and what games you’re playing. Your monitor’s frame rate simply sets the upper limit of what it can show you. Given that, we recommend 144Hz frame rate monitor for gaming, which should allow most players with midrange or powerful PCs to play a large number of games at frame rates well above 60Hz in 1080p.

Q: Is a curved monitor better for gaming?

A curved monitor can offer a more immersive feel in cinematic single-player games and first-person experiences. That said, there’s nothing inherently “better” about using one. Some people prefer a flat panel, some prefer curved when it comes to gaming monitors.

Final thoughts on the best gaming monitors under $200

The best gaming monitors under $200 offer surprisingly solid performance for an affordable price. For the most part, these are not “great” monitors by any stretch, but they hit many of the basic benchmarks we look for in a gaming display. If you’re a PC player that needs a new screen and you’re on a tight budget, these will get the job done.

The post The best gaming monitors under $200 of 2023 appeared first on Popular Science.

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The best all-in-one computers of 2023 https://www.popsci.com/gear/best-all-in-one-computers/ Thu, 21 Jul 2022 14:00:00 +0000 https://www.popsci.com/?p=457013
Best all-in-one computers slice and dice header
Stan Horaczek

If you're looking for a PC that's boxed up without boxing you in, the best all-in-one computers have it all in there.

The post The best all-in-one computers of 2023 appeared first on Popular Science.

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Best overall Apple's colorful new iMacs revive the iconic all-in-one’s colorful spirit, and a snappy Apple-made CPU. Apple iMac M1 24-inch
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Apple’s colorful new iMacs revive the iconic all-in-one’s colorful spirit, and a snappy Apple-made CPU.

Best for gaming The HP Envy 34 is a rare GPU powerhouse, making it a solid fit for gaming. HP Envy 34-inch
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The HP Envy 34 is a rare GPU powerhouse, making it a solid fit for gaming.

Best for business Dell all-in-ones like the Inspiron 27 7000 still get the job done. Dell Inspiron 27 7000 All-In-One
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Dell all-in-ones like the Inspiron 27 7000 still get the job done.

Unlike all-in-one computers, traditional desktop computers—with their discrete monitors, towers, and wired mice and keyboards—have a reputation for being complicated affairs. There are all kinds of cables, each with its own color-coded connection. You have to plug in a display, a mouse, a keyboard … and what about a webcam or some speakers? Plus, a full-size tower can be a hulking beast. It’s a lot of components to buy and keep track of, especially if you aren’t into micromanaging your PC. If you don’t need the power and superior customization of a bulky desktop tower, the best all-in-one computers—or “AiO,” for short—give you strong computing performance in a streamlined form factor.

With a full CPU/graphics chipset or card, monitor, and speakers all inside a sleek, screen-shaped chassis that sits on your desk, an AiO just needs you to plug in a few cables and you’re ready to go. Though they’re less popular than they used to be, they remain a great option for people who need a computer that can do a little bit of everything. The best all-in-one computers are powerful, well-rounded machines that excel for work and play.

How we picked the best all-in-one computers

I’ve been building and repairing PCs for over 20 years and reporting on PCs—including all-in-one systems—for five. In that time I’ve developed a good understanding of what makes a usable, long-lasting computer in terms of specs like the processor, RAM, and graphics, for not just gamers but for everyday users as well—the office workers, web users, and homework doers of the world. 

To select the best all-in-one computers, we researched popular brands and configurations of AiO PCs and how consumers tend to use them. We made sure that our picks span a wide range of use-cases, from casual web browsing and word processing to creative professionals and gamers.

The best all-in-one computers: Reviews & Recommendations

Whether you’re looking for a clean, cable-free desk setup, a simple machine for the kids to use, or you want to fit a powerful machine into a small office space, the best all-in-one computers can satisfy every kind of casual PC user. These are our favorite AiO options right now.

Best overall: Apple iMac M1 24-inch (2021)

Apple

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Buy it used or refurbished: eBay

Why it made the cut: The M1 chip offers superior performance in a lightweight system, and Apple’s engineering is tough to match.

Specs

  • CPU: Apple M1 chip with 8‑core CPU
  • GPU: 7-core – 8-core GPU, integrated
  • RAM: 8 GB – 16 GB Unified Memory
  • Display: 24-inch 4.5K Retina Display
  • Storage: Up to 2 TB
  • Ports: 2 USB 4/Thunderbolt, 2 USB 3, Type-C

Pros

  • Snappy M1 CPU
  • A color to fit any aesthetic
  • The Retina display looks great

Cons

  • Limited port selection

If you need an all-in-one PC with enough power to dabble in almost anything, you just can’t beat Apple’s 2021 iMac, which features the company’s M1 processor. Sleek, thin, and playfully colorful, the iMac looks polished and pleasing, thanks to Apple’s impressive engineering and design sense. Whether you’re just surfing the web, working from home, or getting into content creation, the M1 can handle it. Its 4.5K Retina display is one of the most impressive-looking screens you’ll find on an all-in-one. It also comes with Apple’s Magic Keyboard and Magic Mouse, which are comparatively great for pack-in peripherals.

To get this thing started, you just unbox it and plug in one cable. A home office setup doesn’t get cleaner than that. About the only downside is that Apple’s adherence to its clean aesthetic means that the port selection is pretty limited. The basic iMac has just two Thunderbolt/USB 4 ports. The more expensive configuration has the same, plus two USB 3 ports—all of which are USB-C. If you want to connect any legacy devices or standard USB drives to this thing, you’re going to need a USB-C hub.

Best for gaming: HP Envy 34-inch

Buy it used or refurbished: eBay

Why it made the cut: The HP Envy 34-inch offers powerful configurations, including an option with an Nvidia RTX 3060 graphics card.

Specs

  • CPU: Intel Core i7-11700
  • GPU: GeForce RTX 3060
  • RAM: 32GB
  • Display: 34-inch 5120 x 2160 Ultra widescreen IPS display
  • Storage: 1 TB SSD
  • Ports: 2 USB 4/Thunderbolt, 4 USB Type-A SuperSpeed 10 Gbps, 2 USB Type-A 5 Gbps, 1 USB-C SuperSpeed 5 Gbps HDMI Out, Gigabit Ethernet, WiFi 6, Headphone/Microphone, 3-in-1 card reader

Pros

  • Nvidia 3060 GPU
  • Ultrawide display
  • Detachable webcam
  • Lots of Ports
  • Upgrade options for RAM and Storage

Cons

  • Expensive

Realistically, you should not look for an all-in-one PC if gaming is your top priority. All-in-ones skew toward casual use cases and AAA PC games require a lot of graphical firepower. The HP Envy 34 is one of the few all-in-ones that will let you play most PC games on mid-to-high settings, thanks to a powerful top-of-the-line configuration with an Nvidia RTX 3060 GPU. With an 11th-Gen Intel Core i7 processor, 6GB of GDDR RAM, and a very capable modern GPU, there’s a strong enough core here for playing visually stunning games like Red Dead Redemption 2

The 34-inch 5120 x 2160 Ultra widescreen IPS display offers 98% coverage of the DCI-P3 color gamut, meaning that it’ll be able to show your movies and games in full, accurate color. For communication, HP has included a 16MP webcam that can attach magnetically to anywhere on all four edges of the screen, ensuring that it can fit into any configuration without having to embed it in the screen.

And, unlike most all-in-ones, the Envy 34 offers some upgradability, including two additional RAM slots to add memory and M.2 drive slots for additional storage. There’s also a solid selection of ports, including both USB Type-A and Type-C ports. This is a truly capable system that will work great for office work and content creation while doing double duty as a good-looking gaming rig.

Best for photo editing: Microsoft Surface Studio 2

Microsoft

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Buy it used or refurbished: Amazon

Why it made the cut: Four years later, the Microsoft Surface Studio 2 still delivers a unique touchscreen experience for creatives.

Specs

  • CPU: Intel Core i7-7820HQ
  • GPU: GeForce GTX 1060 or 1070
  • RAM: 16 GB or 32 GB
  • Display: 4500 x 3000 28-inch, 10-point multi-touch PixelSense Display
  • Storage: 1 TB or 2 TB SSD
  • Ports: 1 USB-C, 4 USB 3.0, SD Card Reader, Gigabit Ethernet, Headphone

Pros

  • Highly adjustable touchscreen display is great for artists, photographers, and other creatives
  • Unique design
  • Great color accuracy

Cons

  • Really expensive
  • Older CPU and GPU

The Microsoft Surface Studio 2 is one of the oldest models we looked at, and it’s far from perfect, but it’s going to be the perfect tool for visual artists looking for an all-in-one. Make no mistake, this is a computer for professionals—the base model costs more than $3,500 to start. But, in return, you get a unique computer designed specifically for drawing and photo editing. The Surface Studio 2 features a highly movable screen that can sit upright like a monitor or drop down to act as a digital drawing pad. The 28-inch display is individually color calibrated and offers 99 percent sRGB coverage and between 96.9 and 98 percent DCI-P3 color gamut, according to critics. The display is designed specifically to work with Microsoft’s Surface Pen, which comes with the computer, and the Surface Dial, an optional peripheral that lets you adjust settings like brush size and hardness on the fly without having to stop working.

After four years, Surface Studio 2’s Intel Core i7-7820HQ and Nvidia 10-series GPU verge on prohibitively outdated, especially given its shocking price tag. And yet, there is no other desktop that does what it can do. That may be enough to attract some photo editors and visual artists.

Best for business: Dell Inspiron 27 7000 All-In-One

Dell

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Buy it used or refurbished: eBay

Why it made the cut: While it isn’t made for heavy graphics or photo editing, the Dell Inspiron 27 7000 can handle just about anything else you can throw at it.

Specs

  • CPU: Intel Core i7-1165G7
  • GPU: Nvidia GeForce MX330
  • RAM: 16 GB or 32 GB
  • Display: 27-inch 1920 x 1080 touch display
  • Storage: 512 GB – 2 TB
  • Ports: Gigabit Ethernet, 1 USB 2.0 with Power on/Wake-up support, 1 USB 3.1 Gen 1, 1 USB 3.1 with Power on/Wake-up support, 1 USB 3.1 Gen 1 with PowerShare, 1 USB 3.1 Gen 2 Type-C, 1 Microphone/Headset Jack

Pros

  • Tons of ports
  • Fairly priced
  • Current-gen system with Wi-Fi 6, 11th-Gen Intel, and more

Cons

  • Stand won’t be a great fit for all desks

Dell’s Inspiron 27 7000 delivers a solid balance between performance and price in a Windows all-in-one. It offers Wi-Fi 6 (which is blazing fast if your router also has the feature), plenty of RAM, and a discrete, but low-power GPU. It also has a huge list of ports for you to plug into, including both HDMI in and out, which means you could use it as a monitor for a game console or plug in a second monitor. The lawn-chair-style base is a bit of an odd duck: It takes up more space than it needs to, which may make it hard to place on some small desks. With that said, it starts at just under $1,500, making it only a little bit more expensive than the base iMac. When it comes to daily browsing and office use, Dell’s offering should last you a very long time.

Best touchscreen: HP Essential 27-inch All-in-One

Buy it used or refurbished: eBay

Why it made the cut: This touchscreen-enabled desktop offers powerful performance in a rare AMD-based configuration.

Specs

  • CPU: AMD Ryzen 7 5700U
  • GPU: AMD Radeon Graphics, integrated
  • RAM: 32GB
  • Display: 1920 x 1080 (1080p) touchscreen
  • Storage: 1TB M.2 SSD and 1TB HDD
  • Ports: 2 SuperSpeed USB Type-A; 2 USB 2.0 Type-A; 1 HDMI Out; 1 Gigabit Ethernet; 1 Headphone/Microphone

Pros

  • Lots of HDD space
  • Plenty of ports
  • Tons of RAM and storage

Cons

  • Expensive
  • 1080p on a 27-inch display

Aside from the Apple iMac, every system on our list features an Intel processor. For the sake of variety, we wanted to make sure there’s also at least one AMD option on the table. The HP Pavillion 27-inch offers a strong processor in the Ryzen 7 5700U, with a whopping 32GB of RAM that will make it good for all kinds of heavy-duty creative work. The system compares favorably to the other AiOs on this list with 2TB of HDD space, a 1920×1080 touchscreen display, and a 1080p front-facing camera built into the bezel for all those Zoom meetings that could’ve been emails. There are other models available with a 512GB SSD instead of 1TB, and with 16GB RAM instead of 32GB, offering a bit of flexibility in price and specs.

Best budget: HP Chromebase AIO22

Why it made the cut: The HP Chromebase AIO22 costs very little for an all-in-one system, making it a solid pick if you just want the bare minimum.

Specs

  • CPU: Intel Pentium Gold 6405U
  • GPU: Intel UHD Graphics, integrated
  • RAM: 4GB
  • Display: 1920 x 1080 IPS touchscreen display
  • Storage: 64 GB
  • Ports: 2 USB Type-A SuperSpeed 10 Gbps, 2 USB-C 5 Gbps, Headphone/microphone

Pros

  • Inexpensive
  • Chrome OS keeps things simple
  • Screen rotates for video chat

Cons

  • Extremely low-powered machine

The Chromebase is the very definition of a budget machine, featuring a low-powered Intel CPU and just 4GB of RAM and 64GB of storage. Running Chrome OS means that this machine isn’t going to be very good for gaming or heavy-duty office work. What it is great for, though, is anything involving light web browsing. It could be a great kitchen computer or something that you can put in front of your kids without worrying too much about them breaking it. Chrome OS means that it’s going to be hard to infect with the standard viruses and adware that Windows PCs can be subject to, and harder for curious clickers to install random things from shady corners of the internet.

What to consider before buying one of the best all-in-one computers

Though setting up and using an all-in-one PC is easier than a desktop tower, shopping for one is just as complicated. They’re sealed up, like laptops, so you can’t customize them after purchase. That means you need to make sure you’re getting the exact specs you want on day one. Plus, an all-in-one has a built-in display, speakers, and often a webcam, all of which can make or break a machine.

Processor

The Central Processing Unit, or CPU, is the core of your computer. It performs the computations behind every task your computer performs. It is the most important part of any PC. Generally speaking, you want to look for an all-in-one system with relatively new parts to make sure it will perform well for a long time because they are increasingly not user-upgradeable. 

Windows systems feature processors from one of two companies: Intel or AMD. Intel’s “Core” desktop processors come in four varieties, i3-i9, which correspond to ascending levels of processing power and speed. Intel regularly revises its chips, so look at the generation to determine whether you’re getting a newer or older version. In 2022, Intel is manufacturing its 12th-generation chips: We’d generally stick to 11th- or 12th-generation Core i5 or Core i7 chips whenever possible.

AMD has a similar naming convention for its Ryzen desktop processors. The models range from Ryzen 5-9, which also get faster and more powerful as you go, with a four-digit number specifying the model. AMD’s current chips, the 5000 series, all feature model numbers that start with a “5.” While AMD chips aren’t used quite as often as Intel’s in all-in-one systems, we usually look for Ryzen 5000-series 5 or 7 chips when they’re available.

The most recent version of Apple’s singular all-in-one features Apple’s bespoke M1 processor. Due to software compatibility and the new iMac’s strong performance, we would recommend avoiding older models, as they are likely to lose software support in the next few years.

Since all-in-ones are usually mid-range machines, you shouldn’t expect top-of-the-line performance in most cases. As such, the most important thing is to make sure you’re prepared for the long haul by getting modern hardware. For a deeper dive on CPUs and how to tell a good one from a great one, check out some of our other PC-focused guides.

Storage and memory

Storage and memory are two of the malleable specs on any computer, even all-in-one machines where you pick from a limited number of specific configurations. Storage, or hard drive space, dictates how much data you can store on your computer, including applications and files like documents and photos. Memory helps your computer get quick access to data related to programs and files you’re actually using, and plays a large role in how fast your computer runs. 

Storage: Most people know storage as a numbers game. The bigger the hard drive, the more files you can store. Though you can always augment your computer’s hard drive with an external hard drive, you want enough storage on your computer to hold crucial programs and files that you access often. While size is important, hard drive speed helps determine your PC’s performance.

Modern PCs use one of two kinds of hard drives: Solid state storage (SSD) and hard disk drive (HDD) storage. SSDs of most any type are ideal for your operating system and applications, while HDD storage is best for files (photos, videos, music) and very large applications (think of something like Call of Duty Warzone‘s 175GB install). If given the opportunity, we always recommend opting for a smaller SSD over a gigantic HDD, as it will help your PC run smoothly.

Memory: RAM, or Random Access Memory, plays a large role in how fast your computer feels. There are different types of RAM and some options are faster than others. Even with the best all-in-one computers, you won’t have much control over the specifics of what RAM you use, though. Realistically, you just need to make sure there’s enough of it. We generally recommend looking for a computer with 8GB-16GB of RAM, depending on how you plan to use your PC, but there are use-cases for very low and very high amounts of memory, including:

  • 4GB: Very light browsing, email
  • 8GB: General browsing and light work
  • 16GB: The current standard for a high-end system—enough for multitasking and gaming
  • 32GB: More than needed for most users, great for heavy workloads like video editing and graphics rendering.

The display is key

When buying an all-in-one system, the display you start with is the one you’re definitely stuck with. Therefore, it’s one place where you shouldn’t compromise. Look for a display that’s large enough to fit your space. Display resolution—the number of pixels the screen uses to create an image—dictates the sharpness of your screen. Display resolutions range from 1920 x 1080 pixels (1080p) to 3840 x 2169 pixels (4K UHD) and beyond. As with dedicated monitor guides, we generally recommend scaling resolution up with screen size: On a 27-inch all-in-one or larger, we’d recommend looking for a 1440p (QHD) display or higher.

Some of the systems below also highlight color gamut and accuracy. These are technical specs meant primarily for photographers and video editors who need to make sure they can see the full depth of their work as clearly as possible. For the average person, higher color accuracy and wide color gamut translate into brighter, deeper colors. That said, high color accuracy generally leads to higher prices, so you should probably ignore the specs unless you plan to use your system for creative work.

To dive deep into display specifications, make sure to check out our guide to the best monitors for color grading.

How long do you want your PC to last?

Since all-in-one desktops are sealed up like most laptops, what you see is typically what you get. That means there is a direct correlation between your PC’s specs and how long it will work well for whatever you plan to do with it. Most all-in-one manufacturers offer lots of ways for you to customize and upgrade your PC before you buy it. This will make your computer more powerful and more expensive. More importantly, though, it may be the difference between needing a new PC in four years versus buying a new one in five or six.

For example, there are lots of AiO PCs out there with just 4GB of RAM. That’s not enough to do much beyond checking email and light web browsing these days. Even if you don’t play games or use any processor-intensive programs, web browsing can feel sluggish on a PC with 4GB of RAM if you open too many tabs. Spending a little extra money on more RAM is usually a good way to make your computer feel more powerful on day one, and keep it running well for years after.

As covered above, you’ll typically want 8GB-16GB of RAM and 512GB or more of solid-state storage. If you plan to play video games on your PC, you’ll also want a discrete, dedicated graphics card. Like gaming laptops, the best all-in-one computers tend to skew toward lower-end GPUs. An older model, like an Nvidia GTX 1650, should be enough to facilitate basic games and competitive multiplayer games for now, but likely won’t for the full lifespan of the PC. Ideally, gamers intent on buying an all-in-one should prioritize a modern GPU, like an Nvidia RTX 3060, to play a full range of games.

Ports

Even with the best all-in-one computers, you will still likely need to plug a few peripherals into your PC. Wireless mice and keyboards often come with USB dongles, and maybe you’ll want to plug in other devices like a camera or your phone. You’ll want to make sure your PC has enough ports to accommodate your gear. 

Also, those connections are your only lifeline for upgrading or expanding your system’s functionality. You can always plug in an external hard drive if you need more storage, but only if you have enough ports. You can always get a USB hub to expand your connectivity options, of course, but there’s no substitute for a full suite of direct connections on your computer.

FAQs

Q: Which computer is better, an all-in-one computer, or a tower?

While it ultimately comes down to what’s inside each computer, more companies build powerful, top-of-the-line desktop towers than all-in-one computers. Often, a tower will also give you the ability to open it up and upgrade individual components, which is helpful for gamers and tech-savvy users who want to upgrade their systems. Among casual PC users, picking between an equally powerful tower and an all-in-one system comes down to convenience. The all-in-one is a single piece of equipment that you just need to plug in to use. A desktop tower requires you to set up more peripherals, which takes longer, but also offers advantages in the long run.

Q: Do all-in-one computers have Wi-Fi?

Of course! In this day and age, it would be very difficult to find a pre-built computer without Wi-Fi.

Q: How long should an all-in-one computer last?

Like any computer, the lifespan of an all-in-one comes down to you. All computers will degrade over time, while new software evolves and grows more demanding. You should replace your PC when it isn’t able to handle tasks quickly. If you use your AiO for work, for many hours each day, you may start to see the slower performance that warrants an upgrade after 3-4 years. If you only use your computer occasionally and don’t care much about performance, it may seem fine for a decade.

Final thoughts on the best all-in-one computers

All-in-one PCs aren’t as popular as they were in the late 1990s and early 2000s. As such, there’s only a limited range of options, which are made for a specific type of PC user—people who demand at least mid-range performance but crave the convenience of a single, unibody machine.

Right now, Apple’s M1-powered iMac is a hard one to beat. The M1 chipset is a strong performer that asks for very little power, and it benefits from all the different elements of Apple’s walled garden. The iMac looks and runs great and if you treat it well, it’ll continue to do that for years. With that said, the Dell Inspiron 7000 is just as affordable and is going to succeed for office work. Even if they generally aren’t quite as flexible as a discrete desktop, the best all-in-one computers are undeniably convenient and have more than enough power to get things done.

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The best monitors for PS5 of 2023 https://www.popsci.com/reviews/best-monitor-ps5/ Thu, 25 Nov 2021 18:46:00 +0000 https://www.popsci.com/?p=394185
The Best PlayStation 5 Monitors
Brandt Ranj / Popular Science

Everything you need to know about playing your PS5 on a PC monitor.

The post The best monitors for PS5 of 2023 appeared first on Popular Science.

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The Best PlayStation 5 Monitors
Brandt Ranj / Popular Science

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Best overall Acer Nitro XV282K is the best monitor for PS5. Acer Nitro XV282K
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In the relatively new field of HDMI 2.1 gaming monitors, the Nitro XV282K is  an expensive panel that perfectly complements the PS5.

Best Value Gigabyte M28U is the best monitor for PS5. Gigabyte M28U
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The Gigabyte M28U hits most of the specs as our top choice, but at a drastically lower price.

Best for esports BenQ Mobiuz EX2510 is the best monitor for PS5. BenQ Mobiuz EX2510
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The BenQ Mobiuz EX2510 is the best entry-level PS5 monitor, sacrificing 4K in exchange for smooth and solid HD gameplay.

Sony’s PlayStation 5 is the latest and greatest home console, topping gamers’ wish lists all over the world. With an 8-core CPU and custom AMD graphics chip, the PS5 offers incredible fidelity. According to Sony, it’s capable of running games at 120 frames per second and will be able to show them at 8k resolution. If you’ve been lucky enough to snag a PS5 and plan to play it using a PC-style desk setup, then you’ll want a compatible monitor that can take advantage of all that power.

Depending on your unique gaming or streaming setup you might want a different style of PS5 monitor, whether it be one that’s budget-friendly or is well-equipped for E-Sports games. Regardless of which monitor you ultimately land on, know that it’s an investment to make for your ideal PS5 setup, We’ve rounded up the best monitors for PS5 to help you find the right panel and make that happen.

How we selected the best monitors for PS5

Through testing, reading monitor reviews, comparing specs and features, plus a lifetime of experience in both console and PC gaming, we surveyed modern monitors on the market right now and drilled down on those capable of showcasing the PS5’s graphical specs. We selected monitors that are all well-reviewed and offer solid value for their price, including both overall top choices as well as products that selectively cut corners to reduce cost, depending on whether you care more about framerate or resolution.

The best monitors for PS5: Reviews & Recommendations

The best monitors for PS5 vary quite a bit. Some focus on framerate. Some focus on resolution. A couple of them have everything you need. (One is actually a TV). Depending on what you need and how much you have to spend, we’re confident that you’ll find that at least one of these monitors is a great fit for you and your new console.

Best overall: Acer Nitro XV282K 

Acer

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Why it made the cut: In the relatively new and small field of HDMI 2.1 gaming monitors, Acer currently leads the pack with an expensive, but solid panel that perfectly complements the PS5.

Specs:

  • Resolution: 3840 x 2160
  • Refresh Rate: 144Hz
  • Size: 28”
  • Ports: HDMI 2.1 (2) DisplayPort 1.4, USB 3.1 Type C
  • Panel Type: IPS
  • HDR: Yes

Pros:

  • 4k
  • 144Hz
  • HDMIT 2.1
  • Low Lag

Cons:

  • Expensive

With a 144Hz refresh rate, 4K resolution, and 2 HDMI 2.1 ports, Acer’s Nitro XV282K feels like a very comfortable fit for the PS5. (Along with any other consoles or gaming PCs you might want to hook up). It also boasts an impressively low 1ms response time for smooth and ghost-free gaming. The only drawback is a slightly sub-par contrast ratio, which suggests that blacks may look a bit gray in a dark room. Otherwise, the image is about as fast and as clear as you could hope for the time being, given the PS5’s high demands.

Best value: Gigabyte M28U

Gigabyte

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Why it made the cut: The Gigabyte M28U meets all the same overall specs as our top choice, but at a drastically lower price, with compromises that only the most hardcore gamers will notice.

Specs:

  • Resolution: 3840 x 2160
  • Refresh Rate: 144Hz
  • Size: 28”
  • Ports: HDMI 2.1 (2) DisplayPort 1.4, USB 3.1 Type C
  • Panel Type: IPS
  • HDR: Yes

Pros:

  • 4k
  • 144Hz
  • HDMIT 2.1
  • Lowest price for full range of specs

Cons:

  • Slight input lag
  • Minor backlight bleed

The Gigabyte M28U offers the most bang for your buck among the relatively small number of HDMI 2.1-compatible monitors available right now. Like our top choice, it has a 144Hz refresh rate, 4K resolution, and a low 1ms response time, making them functionally equivalent in many situations. The main differences between the two come into play in specific scenarios, like some noticeable backlight bleed if you’re playing in the dark, and higher input lag than comparable 144Hz monitors. More specifically, M28U’s input lag measured around 10ms, while the Acer Nitro XV282K clocked in closer to 4ms. That looks like a big difference on paper, but we’re talking about fractions of a second. While the most framerate-sensitive gamers may still notice the difference, the M28U is a very strong choice for most players.

Best for esports: BenQ Mobiuz EX2510

BenQ

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Why it made the cut: The BenQ Mobiuz EX2510 is the best entry-level PS5 monitor, sacrificing 4K in exchange for smooth and solid HD gameplay.

Specs:

  • Resolution: 1920 x 1080
  • Refresh Rate: 144Hz
  • Size: 24.5”
  • Ports: HDMI 2.0 (2) DisplayPort 1.2
  • Panel Type: IPS
  • HDR: No

Pros:

  • 144Hz
  • Smooth performance
  • Solid build

Cons:

  • Not 4K

While 4K is the more headline-grabbing resolution, lots of people are more than fine playing in 1080p. In competitive PC gaming circles, framerate is king. Premium esports monitors are often 1080p, but hit incredibly high framerates upwards of 300Hz. Given the PS5’s cap at 120fps, that’s a bit much for our needs, though. BenQ’s Mobiuz EX2510 sits at a more reasonable 144Hz, allowing you to still get as many frames as possible out of your PS5 without sacrificing image quality for less than you might expect.

Best 4K/60 monitor: ASUS TUF Gaming VG289Q

Asus

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Why it made the cut: 4K monitors are still fairly expensive across the board, but the ASUS TUF Gaming VG289Q is a great entry-level 4K monitor that strikes a balance between quality and cost.

Specs:

  • Resolution: 3840 x 2160
  • Refresh Rate: 60Hz
  • Size: 28”
  • Ports: HDMI 2.0 (2) DisplayPort 1.2
  • Panel Type: IPS
  • HDR: Yes

Pros:

  • 4K
  • Great value

Cons:

  • Middling HDR

When games first made the jump from 30 to 60fps, some people claimed that the human eye wouldn’t even be able to discern the difference, but anyone who’s tried them side by side can confirm that we absolutely can, and it makes games look substantially better. People are likewise capable of noticing the jump from 60 to 120, but with noticeably diminishing returns. The ASUS TUF Gaming VG289Q delivers excellent, color-accurate 4K graphics at a steady and still-generous 60Hz, which is less than perfect for PS5, but still looks buttery-smooth to the average eye. It isn’t perfect: With low overall brightness–350 nits–its HDR doesn’t keep pace with other, more expensive monitors. Still, you’d be hard-pressed to find a better 4K monitor at this price.

Best TV for PS5: LG C2 OLED 

Why it made the cut: If cost is not a concern, LG’s OLED TVs are the gold standard for incredible image quality with no compromise in responsiveness.

Specs:

  • Resolution: 3840 x 2160
  • Refresh Rate: 120Hz
  • Size: 48”
  • Ports: HDMI 2.1 (4), USB 2.0 (3)
  • Panel Type: OLED
  • HDR: Yes

Pros:

  • 120Hz on a TV
  • HDMI 2.1
  • Incredible blacks and color range
  • Wide viewing angels

Cons:

  • Very expensive compared to monitors
  • Burn-in risk

Where all of the above monitors use the current standard LCD technology, which requires a backlight, the next generation of screens are starting to shift over to OLED, which requires no backlight because every pixel is self-lit and independent. OLED screens allow for rich, perfect blacks and nearly infinite contrast, as well as much slimmer form factors without the need for a backlight. 

It turns out that the best OLED screen to pair with the PS5 is a TV, not a monitor. LG’s C2 OLED, the best PS5 TV, offers these benefits, along with all the top specs you need to get the most out of the PS5: 120Hz, 4K, HDMI 2.1, and extremely low input lag. Obviously, the C2 is much bigger and more expensive than the average PC monitor, but its screen quality is top sharp to ignore.

What to consider before buying the best monitors for PS5

Even if money is no object, picking one of the best monitors for PS5 takes a little doing. Not every monitor will be able to take full advantage of the console’s output, so it’s important to check for compatibility. Unlike PCs, which can output graphics at a much wider and more customizable range of settings, the PS5 is limited to a few resolution and framerate options, and so you need a monitor capable of meeting those needs. Moreover, if you can’t afford to spend more than the price of your new console itself on a monitor for it, it’s important to know your priorities–namely, whether you care more about framerate or resolution.

What is HDMI 2.1?

At bare minimum, you’re going to need an HDMI-compatible monitor. While many of the best gaming monitors have followed PC gaming’s shift to DisplayPort cables, the PS5 (and the Xbox Series X) call for HDMI 2.1, the latest iteration of the more ubiquitous HDMI cable. Despite the fact that it looks the same as previous HDMI cables, HDMI 2.1 greatly increases how much data moves from computer to screen. HDMI 2.0 has a maximum data transmission rate of 18 gigabits per second, allowing for output at 4K resolution at 60Hz, or 1080p resolution at up to 240Hz. HDMI 2.1 bumps that up significantly to 48 Gbp/s, allowing computers – including game consoles – to output 4K video at up to 180Hz, or 8K at 50Hz.

For the PS5 specifically, using an HDMI 2.1 cable and monitor opens the door for the PS5 to run games at 4K resolution and 120fps (and, eventually, 8K/30fps). Legacy HDMI 2.0 monitors will still be able to choose between either 4K/60fps or 1080p/120fps, but you’ll need HDMI 2.1 to enjoy both at the same time.

Monitor aspect ratio and resolution

Resolution refers to the number of pixels on screen, with higher resolutions being capable of more fine-grained detail and smoothness. The PS5 outputs at two resolutions: Standard HD (1920 x 1080 pixels) and the richer, more pixel-dense 4K resolution (3840 x 2160 pixels). As you might expect, 4K monitors are newer and more powerful, so they tend to be considerably more expensive than their 1080p counterparts. 

In this PS5 FAQ, Sony says the PS5 hardware is also capable of running games at 8K resolution, but not with the current firmware. Meanwhile, there are no PS5 games that can run in 8K yet, so we currently advise you to avoid spending thousands of dollars to get ahead of the pack.

Since most gaming monitors are built with PC gaming in mind, there are more choices out there. Many monitors offer up 1440p (2560 x 1440) pixels. There’s also a growing number of ultrawide monitors that differ from the usual 16:9 “widescreen” dimensions used for most modern screens. The PS5 doesn’t support 1440p. It can work with an ultrawide screen, though that may present problems from game to game. Realistically, if you’re buying a monitor specifically with the PS5 in mind, you’ll want to stick to standard widescreen monitors with a maximum resolution of either 1080p or 4K.

And while part of the PS5’s appeal is its ability to run games in 4K at better framerates, its sharper, more detailed gameplay shows up on a 1080p monitor as well. If “better” is good enough, settling for 1080p may be a good concession when shopping for a new monitor on a budget.

Refresh rate, response time, and input lag

To judge how games look, resolution goes hand in hand with a second monitor spec, refresh rate, which determines the highest possible framerate at which a game “runs.” Refresh rate, expressed in hertz (Hz), refers to the number of times per second a monitor can “draw” an image on your screen. The higher the refresh rate on your monitor, the more frames of animation your computer or console can animate each second.

Framerate rarely matters for TV and film, which are still traditionally filmed at 24fps but, in games, more frames means smoother animation and, often, more information. Being able to more quickly and subtly perceive motion can give you an edge in playing anything at all action-oriented, which becomes even more important in competitive gaming. During the PS4 and Xbox One era, framerates between 30fps and 60fps were the standard. The PS5 and Xbox Series X have now raised the bar to between 60 and 120fps.

Thus, in order to get the most out of your console, you’re going to want a monitor with a max refresh rate of 120Hz or higher. As with resolution, there are other options available aimed at gaming PCs. You can find monitors that go up to 240Hz or even an absurd 360Hz, which really pushes the border of what the human eye can perceive. For the PS5, though, 120fps is the limit. Luckily, there’s a standard refresh rate for monitors just over that cap – 144Hz – that gives you exactly what you need.

What about HDR?

Both PS4 and PS5 games support High Dynamic Range, or HDR, a TV and monitor feature that creates a wider range of in-game darkness and light on 4K monitors with high brightness and color contrast. HDR monitors are brighter overall, with richer, more accurate colors and more nuance in both shadows and bright areas, making images pop more overall. 

There is such a thing as “good” and “bad” HDR. Some monitors support the feature, but lack the maximum brightness to create a true range of lighting conditions. When considering a monitor’s HDR, you want to check its brightness settings: Look for a maximum brightness of at least 500-600 NITs, and that it features full-array local dimming, which determines how much the monitor can change the brightness of specific parts of the screen.

FAQs

Q: Is it better to play PS5 on TV or monitor?

There’s a strong argument for playing console games on a PC monitor. Older televisions traditionally have significantly more input lag than monitors, making them less ideal for contemporary gaming. However, as the LG OLED TV on our list demonstrates, that isn’t a hard and fast rule. 

For most people, the choice between a TV and a monitor comes down to size, price and setting. If you want to play games on your couch in the living room, go for a TV. If you prefer sitting at a desk with your face right in front of the screen, a monitor is just as viable.

Q: Is a 1080p monitor good for PS5?

Yes, while the PS5 has been highly touted for its ability to output 4K gameplay at up to 120fps, there are still relatively few monitors out there that support HDMI 2.1. The PS5 still looks substantially better than the PS4 on a 1080p display, and it’s possible to get a 1080p/144Hz monitor for a relatively affordable price.

Q: Is 144hz good for PS5?

Not only is 144Hz good, it’s the “right” refresh rate for PS5 owners. While the PS5 tops out at 120fps, 144Hz is a standard maximum refresh rate for gaming monitors. Unlike resolution, monitors can run at any framerate under that cap, so any 144Hz monitor will show 120Hz gameplay without any issues.

The final word on the best monitors for PS5

If you’re already managed to get a PS5, despite its limited availability, then you’re going to want to ensure you have a monitor that’s up to the task. Fortunately, once you understand the specs, it’s fairly easy to narrow down the options and find the best monitors for PS5. Take into account what’s most important to you, whether that’s smooth, 120fps gameplay or crisp 4K images, and choose accordingly based on your budget.

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The best gaming mouse of 2023 https://www.popsci.com/story/reviews/best-gaming-mouse/ Mon, 22 Nov 2021 20:32:22 +0000 https://www.popsci.com/uncategorized/best-gaming-mouse/
Person using a gaming mouse and ergonomic keyboard.
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A responsive, ergonomic gaming mouse could be the difference between greatness and grueling defeat on the virtual battlefield. Below is what you need to know.

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Person using a gaming mouse and ergonomic keyboard.
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Best optical sensor Razer Basilisk v2 Wired Gaming Mouse Razer Basilisk v2
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This smart-tracking motion sync mouse has high-quality sensors to level up your gameplay.

Best for sensitivity Logitech G502 Lightspeed Wireless Gaming Mouse Logitech G502 Lightspeed
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For lightweight controls, an adjustable weight system, and wireless design make this a top tier option.

Best budget Razer DeathAdder Elite Gaming Mouse Razer DeathAdder Essential
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This responsive gaming mouse comes at an affordable price while maintaining quality design.

Finding the best gaming mouse is essential to your setup as a PC gamer. A good gaming mouse determines how precise, quick, and accurate your various strikes, selections, and sudden moves will be. But are they worth the investment? Yes, if you’re serious about gaming. A regular computer mouse isn’t built to handle rapid movement or vigorous clicking, which makes it susceptible to breakage and dysfunction. A gaming mouse is more sensitive, responsive, and more ergonomically designed than a regular computer mouse. The best gaming mouse is also customizable for your needs and built to let you game for hours. No matter whether you’re playing an FPS, action RPG, or something involving intense strategy or simulation, the best gaming mouse will help improve your performance. That said, it’s not easy to decipher the technical jargon that describes the options on the market or know at the outset which is the best gaming mouse for you. Here’s a quick guide to help you choose the best gaming mouse for your needs.

The best gaming mouse: Reviews & Recommendations

Best optical sensor: Razer Basilisk v2

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The Basilisk by Razer Basilisk v2 gaming mouse has a sensor that is out of this world. Called a Razer Focus+, this optical sensor has a tracking accuracy of 99.6 percent and is equipped with smart-tracking, asymmetric cut-off, and motion sync. This mouse has a 20,000 DPI, 50G acceleration, and weighs around 3.3 ounces. There are 11 programmable buttons, a drag-free cord, and color customization so you will always feel in control. Additionally, you can adjust the overall sensitivity of the mouse and the scroll wheel resistance, making for a very versatile peripheral. There are several Razer mice that use the same sensor so take a peek at some of their other models if you need less versatility and more specificity.

Best adjustable weight: Corsair Nightsword

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The Corsair Nightsword is one of the most customizable mice on the market when it comes to weight distribution and ergonomics. Two sets of weights with six different mounting locations will give you up to 120 different balance configurations and built-in software will automatically detect the mouse’s center of gravity so you can fine-tune the weight and balance to fit your preferred grip. It features a textured contoured shape with a thumb rest to keep your right hand relaxed and reactive. This Corsair mouse has 10 programmable buttons and 18,000 DPI with a customizable PixArt optical sensor. If you are looking for a mouse with more attention to grip than weight, we recommend you check out a cousin of the Nightsword, the Corsair Glaive with 3 interchangeable grips.

Best for sensitivity: Logitech G502 Lightspeed

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The Logitech G502 Lightspeed is not only incredibly accurate but extra customizable when it comes to DPI and sensitivity. It has a Hero 16K sensor, can weigh anywhere between 4.02 – 4.59 ounces, with an acceleration of more than 40G. It comes with 11 programmable buttons and 100 – 16,000 DPI sensitivity options for great gameplay in shooting and strategy games alike. This mouse is wireless but reliable with a 60-hour lifespan on a single charge and compatibility options for a continuous charge using Logitech’s Powerplay mousepads.

Best with customizable buttons: Razer Naga Trinity

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The Razer Naga Trinity is the belle of the ball when it comes to buttons. It is excellent for MMO players and manages to side-step the issues that can arise with a lack of flexibility regarding grip when it comes to a high-button count. The Razer Naga Trinity has up to 19 programmable buttons with 3 interchangeable side plates that have 3, 7, and 12 buttons respectively (this allows you to adjust your grip depending on your game needs). It has a 16,000 DPI sensor, a customizable color profile, and weighs roughly 120 grams.

Best wireless: Corsair Dark Core RGB Pro

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The Corsair Dark Core is a rechargeable, wireless gaming mouse with up to 50 hours of continuous battery life, wireless charging Qi capabilities, USB wired play options, and eight programmable buttons. It has an 18,000 DPI optical sensor, RGB backlight customization with an integrated LED light bar, and two interchangeable side grips. This wireless mouse a little heavier than some models, coming in at 9.2 ounces but many gamers prefer the stabilization this weight provides.

Things to consider when shopping for the best gaming mouse

Gaming mice are designed with functionality far above any run-of-the-mill computer mouse options, which means you have more to think about before making a purchase. The overall shape or design of the mouse, its DPI, sensor type, mappable buttons, and whether or not you want a wired mouse are all crucial factors to consider. Each gamer might want something different so it’s difficult to recommend a universally perfect mouse. We’ll break down the elements and suggest some products that we feel exemplify excellence when in each category.

Optical or laser sensor

The sensor on your mouse is the technological upgrade that has replaced that tiny rubber ball previously found at the bottom base. It essentially uses an LED light that bounces off of a surface, mousepad, etcetera to transmit coordinates that correspond to your computer screen, allowing you to scroll, click, hover, and perform all the various mouse functions. There are two types of sensors you’ll encounter when searching for a gaming mouse: optical and laser. Determining the right sensor can be fairly contentious and there is much debate about which works the best. There is a ton of highly detailed scientific information floating around about the difference between these two types of sensors and how mice work, but the key is that they use a different type of light source to reflect off of the surface it’s on. Generally speaking, a laser sensor can handle any surface type, including something glossy it can also transit information with greater detail and accuracy however some report issues with acceleration (meaning the mouse can become unsynced with the computer screen if moved too fast). Optical sensors don’t suffer from acceleration as much but they can also be more sensitive to surface type. Both sensors can perform very well but if acceleration is a major concern, and you don’t mind purchasing a cushy mousepad, we suggest going for the optical sensor.

Which ergonomic design options are best for you?

The assorted design options that for the best gaming mouse are manifold. But to break it down, these mice are all designed to be functional and ergonomic and alleviate pressure on your wrist. They allow you to play fluidly, without having to constantly adjust hand placement or position. Think about the weight of the mouse and the type of grip you prefer. If you make sudden, fast motions or you want a little resistance you could consider a mouse that has an adjustable weight option, which typically comes in the form of inserts. When it comes to grip, you have three options: claw, palm, and fingertip. A claw grip will have your wrist resting on the mouse pad, your fingers gripping the mouse itself, and your palm elevated above the body. A palm grip will have you rest your palm on the back of the mouse with your fingers resting on top; this is the grip found in a traditional computer mouse. A fingertip grip will have both the wrist and palm elevated, using only your fingers to control the motion alongside various buttons. Grip preference is frequently based on hand size- a fingertip grip mouse is typically the largest.

Most mice are created for right-handed players, but there are a number of excellent mice out there that have created ambidextrous programmable options like the Glorious Model O or Mira-M from HK Gaming. A few companies, like Razer, have even made dedicated left-handed mice.

How sensitive does your mouse need to be?

When searching for the best gaming mouse, you’ll came across a million tech acronyms. Which are important to pay attention to when making your selection? DPI stands for “dots per inch” and can also be marketed as CPI, “counts per inch” when discussing gaming mouse specs. DPI and CPI refer to the number of counts or captured pixels your mouse takes per inch of travel. The higher the DPI, the more sensitive the mouse is. A high DPI doesn’t always mean a better mouse though, you also want to make sure the mouse has a high IPS, or inches per second which tells you the maximum velocity at which it can still capture. Many gaming mice have a DPI of 4000 or higher with the option to increase or decrease that number. Some gamers prefer a lower DPI because lower sensitivity can mean better precision. DPI can also be selected based on your screen’s pixelation. If your screen has a high pixel density, then a higher DPI might be helpful. While DPI might not determine much about your gameplay because most gaming mice function with an already substantial count, we recommend finding something that is adjustable or customizable, so you can test out what works best for you.

Finally, you’ll want to consider your mouse’s acceleration. We touched on this briefly when discussing sensors but it’s important to know that no matter the sensor, acceleration can still affect your gaming. Acceleration describes the amount of gravitational force your mouse can handle whilst tracking accurately and effectively. It is also often customizable and while frequently considered a negative for games that require a lot of quick back and forth, it can be utilized effectively in FPS games and others that require precision.

Do you need customizable buttons?

It is our humble opinion that customizable buttons can make or break a great gamer if used creatively and intelligently. Some prefer to forgo additional buttons but they can be a huge asset when it comes to execution and quick thinking. Gaming mice have at minimum 5 buttons and a maximum of around 19. The number of buttons right for you will probably depend on gaming experience and game preference. A lower button count will be just enough for newer gamers or those who enjoy FPS games. Low button mice can also be called shooter mice and some even come with a dedicated sniper button that will lower the DPI for more precision when pressed. A higher button count may take more experience to program and operate but will give RTS or MMO game players alternative functions and macros necessary to play successfully, though they take some time to get used to and you’ll need to program each one. These mice often feature a keyboard-style grid on the thumb side (muscle memory will soon become your new best friend). There are also button hybrid mice which will give you a little more flexibility without having to commit to one game type.

Customizable buttons can also mean customizable lighting. While this is mostly cosmetic, custom lighting options can be a super fun addition to your gaming mouse. RGB lighting can be found all over gaming setups, from speakers to chairs and now your mouse. Pick the aesthetic that works best for you (or your team). While the lighting will not impact the function of your buttons it does suggest that the customizable software is up to snuff. It’s important to feel like you’re in control of the command center when you’re fighting interplanetary battles.

Do you want a wired or wireless gaming mouse?

Another hot-button (get it?) debate amongst gamers and their mice is to go wired or wireless. Reliability is a major plus that a wired connection provides, but it also limits portability, range of motion, and inhibit your overall desk setup. These mice are connected to the computer using USB so you probably won’t need to invest in adaptors. Pretty much all wired mice are created equal when it comes to connectivity, though you can check out each spec to get a cable that is long enough for your needs. A wireless connection is more susceptible to disconnection or malfunction but models have become increasingly more reliable. A wireless mouse will declutter your cables, provide a cleaner setup, and will be easy to swap out. Keep in mind, you will need to charge this mouse so make sure you check out the battery life. You don’t want to be smack in the middle of a sequence only to lose complete control because your mouse is dead. A wireless mouse will let you play games from just about anywhere, you won’t need to be close to your monitor. This can be a great option for those of you who want to do some couch playing while hooking your monitor up to the television.

In general, we believe that a wired gaming mouse is a better option for most gamers, it also happens to be less expensive, but we recognize that sometimes you need to value form over function and as the technology continues to improve the form and function inch closer to being equals with many wireless gaming options.

Best budget: What you get for under $50

The price of many of the best gaming mouse options reflects the sophistication of their design and sensitivity. While it’s not easy to find comparable models with that level of functionality, it’s not impossible. Some of the best-known mouse manufacturers, such as Razer and Corsair, offer more affordable models made at the level of quality the brands are known for. You may not be able to customize lower-priced options like the Razer DeathAdder Essential, as much, and they may not be as aesthetically appealing. But the best cheap gaming mice can go easier on your wallet while providing the same levels of precision and functionality.

FAQs

Q: What is the best gaming mouse in 2023?

While different gamers might dispute which mouse is the best overall, the consensus on online forums and reviews seems to be the fast-tracking and sensitive Logitech G502 Lightspeed. Its 11 programmable buttons and sensitivity options make it customized to your personal preferences as you play.

Q: Which mouse do pro gamers use?

It’s no surprise that gamers opt for a variety of mouses depending on their individual preferences, but two options pop up frequently when we’re talking gaming mouses. In addition to the Logitech G502 Lightspeed mentioned above, the Razer DeathAdder Essential is an affordable but high-quality option gamers opt for.

Q: What gaming mouse does MrFreshAsian use?

Ever wonder what mouse top gamers use to destroy opponents? You’re not alone. Gaming celeb MrFreshAsian uses the Finalmouse Air58 Ninja CBR Edition mouse in his gameplay.

The bottom line on shopping for the best gaming mouse

The best gaming mouse for your experience, preferences, and setup should now be at your fingertips. With so many advanced features and design options, the gaming peripherals, like gaming keyboards, are constantly improving—and the mouse is no different. There are a ton of amazing options out there and we feel confident that your next WoW session will leave you feeling fired up and in control with a brand new, ergonomically designed, programmable mouse in hand.

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The best gaming monitors in 2023 https://www.popsci.com/story/reviews/best-gaming-monitor/ Thu, 10 Feb 2022 21:02:25 +0000 https://www.popsci.com/uncategorized/best-gaming-monitor/
The best gaming monitors
Brandt Ranj / Popular Science

Say goodbye to motion blur, pixelation, and tiny screens that require squinting with our picks for high-performance monitors.

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The best gaming monitors
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Best overall Best Gaming Monitors ViewSonic Elite XG320U
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The ViewSonic Elite XG320U offers great performance at the current top end of monitor specs.

Best 4K Best Gaming Monitors LG 27GN950-B
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The LG 27GN950-B is an especially sharp 4K monitor with all the right specs, including strong brightness and a 144Hz refresh rate.

Best Budget Best Gaming Monitors ASUS TUF Gaming 27-inch 1440P HDR Gaming Monitor (VG27AQ)
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The Asus TUF VG27AQ delivers incredible performance for under $400.

With rare exceptions, modern video games are an extremely visual medium, and what better way to experience that than on one of the top-notch gaming monitors. Whether you want to fully immerse yourself in imaginary worlds or ruthlessly climb to the tops of competitive ladders, crisp, bright, and color-accurate visuals are a key part of that experience. The best gaming monitors can get expensive, but they last for years and can easily jump between systems or become secondary monitors as you upgrade. There’s little point in spending money on a powerful new console or PC graphics card if you don’t have a screen that can actually take advantage of it. Even if you literally cannot tell the difference between 30 and 60 frames per second or 1080p and 4K (good for you, to be honest), we’ll help you cut through the noise, narrow down your priorities, and match them to one of the best gaming monitors on the market.

How we chose the best gaming monitors

First, we selected a range of specs around which to optimize, broadly dividing up monitors by available categories and user needs, such as focusing on frame rate, resolution, and price-to-spec value. We finalized the specific picks by collating both professional and consumer reviews to confirm monitors that we felt provided the best value in these various specs, with broad and consistent praise. New gaming monitors are coming out all the time, so no list can be truly definitive. However, these selections offer a snapshot of the current state of gaming monitor technology and design.

These selections were also more fundamentally informed by a lifetime of experience as gamers, as well as years covering both the gaming and hardware spaces as journalists and critics. With that expertise, we can help demystify the jargon-heavy world of monitors and help find the best one for you.

The best gaming monitors: Reviews & Recommendations

Flat or curved, big or small—it’s time to figure out the best monitor for your gaming rig, whether a desktop PC or a laptop. Now that you know the basics, here’s a list of our favorites. Each pick is optimized for a different spec or use case, so we think you’ll find something that works for you.

Best overall: ViewSonic Elite XG320U

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Why it made the cut: The ViewSonic Elite XG320U offers great performance at the current top end of desktop monitors.

Specs

  • Size: 32 inches
  • Panel type: IPS
  • Native resolution: 4K
  • Refresh rate: 150Hz
  • Response time: 1ms
  • Display ports: DisplayPort, HDMI 2.0, HDMI 2.1
  • Variable refresh rate: FreeSync
  • HDR: VESA HDR 600

Pros

  • Gorgeous picture
  • Accurate colors out of the box
  • High-performing at all resolutions
  • HDMI 2.1 compatible

Cons

  • Expensive

If money is no object and you just want the most monitor in every dimension possible, ViewSonic’s Elite XG320U has everything you need to make your games look their best. IPS (In-Plane Switching) displays historically had more vivid, accurate colors, but at the expense of response time, making them less ideal for gamers. The Elite is a great example of how newer, faster IPS tech has basically eliminated that gap, achieving the best of both worlds with fantastic colors and sharp, responsive images with no ghosting. With HDMI 2.1 compatibility as well, it’s a perfect fit for the latest generation of consoles or PC graphics cards and their promise of 4K gaming at 120Hz.

Best 4K: LG 27GN950-B 27-inch UHD Nano IPS Display Ultragear Gaming Monitor

Why it made the cut: The LG 27GN950-B is an especially sharp 4K monitor with all the right specs, including strong brightness and a 144Hz refresh rate.

Specs

  • Size: 27 inches
  • Panel type: Nano IPS
  • Native resolution: 4K
  • Refresh rate: 160Hz
  • Response time: 1ms
  • Display ports: DisplayPort, HDMI 2.0
  • Variable refresh rate: G-Sync, FreeSync
  • HDR: VESA HDR 600

Pros

  • Great color accuracy
  • Very fast and smooth performance, especially for 4K
  • Highly adjustable monitor stand.

Cons

  • Expensive
  • No HDMI 2.1

If you’re rocking the kind of system that’s ready for 4K gaming all the time, the LG Ultragear Gaming Monitor is one of the best 4K gaming displays on the market, particularly for PC players. This incredibly fast and smooth 27-inch 4K screen has a nano IPS display, 144Hz refresh rate (overclockable to 160), 1ms response time, and is NVIDIA G-SYNC Compatible with AMD FreeSync Premium Pro. Not only does it function at incredibly high speeds without any choppiness or smearing, but it also maintains sharp detail with bold colors and dynamic contrast.

Best 1440p: Acer Nitro XV272U

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Why it made the cut: Acer’s Nitro XV272U offers fantastic 1440p performance and utility at a great value.

Specs

  • Size: 27 inches
  • Panel type: IPS
  • Native resolution: 1440p
  • Refresh rate: 170Hz
  • Response time: .5ms
  • Display ports: DisplayPort, HDMI 2.0
  • Variable refresh rate: AMD FreeSync
  • HDR: VESA HDR 400

Pros

  • Bright, accurate colors
  • Responsive performance
  • Price

Cons

  • Bland design

Acer’s Nitro XV272U proves that while a monitor’s resolution is important, it’s not everything. This display is 1440p, which means it’s better than HD but not quite 4K. This middle ground is fine since certain consoles, like the Nintendo Switch and Xbox Series S, aren’t capable of playing 4K games anyway. What sets this gaming monitor apart—aside from its shockingly good price is its 170Hz refresh rate, ultra-low latency, and support for AMD’s FreeSync. PC gamers with AMD graphics cards will find the Nitro XV272U is well-suited to their gaming setup. Your PC’s other specs—especially its CPU and GPU—will still make the biggest difference in how your games play, but we’re confident this gaming monitor won’t be the weak link in your system. If you connect your gaming PC to this monitor’s DisplayPort, you’ll have two HDMI ports free for game consoles, which is great if you want to turn your desk into an all-in-one gaming area. If you’re not completely sold on 4K gaming but want a monitor that’s relatively futureproofed for when you upgrade your gaming hardware, Acer’s Nitro XV272U is a great choice.

Best for esports: Alienware AW2521HF

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Why it made the cut: A small display with a 240Hz framerate, the Alienware AW2521HF is optimized for competitive play in all the right ways.

Specs:

  • Size: 24.5 inches
  • Panel type: IPS
  • Native resolution: 1080p
  • Refresh rate: 240Hz
  • Response time: 1ms
  • Display ports: HDMI 2.0, DisplayPort
  • Variable refresh rate: G-Sync, FreeSync
  • HDR: N/A

Pros

  • 240Hz refresh rate
  • Great viewing angles
  • Support for both G-Sync and FreeSync

Cons

  • No HDR

When it comes to fast-paced online competition, speed is the most important variable. Alienware’s AW2521HF 24.5-inch IPS display is only 1080p but runs at a blistering 240Hz with a low 1ms response time. Although it lacks HDR, it has fantastic viewing angles and is extremely glare-resistant, helping you maintain focus on the game. It’s compatible with both AMD FreeSync and NVIDIA G-Sync, meaning smooth performance no matter what graphics card is powering it.

Best curved: Samsung Odyssey G9

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Why it made the cut: Samsung’s Odyssey G9 is the most performant monitor for gaming in the narrow field of ultrawides.

Specs

  • Size: 49 inches
  • Panel type: QLED
  • Native resolution: 5120×1440
  • Refresh rate: 240Hz
  • Response time: 1ms
  • Display ports: DisplayPort, HDMI 2.0, HDMI 2.1
  • Variable refresh rate: G-Sync, FreeSync
  • HDR: Samsung HDR 1000

Pros

  • Gorgeous ultrawide display
  • Vivid colors and contrast from QLED
  • Blazingly fast refresh rate

Cons

  • Expensive
  • How wide is too wide?

Curved monitors are an expensive niche for a particular kind of hardware enthusiast, though the number of ultrawide options is growing rapidly. Samsung’s Odyssey G9 is a 49-inch monster of a display, perfect for gaming with its 240Hz max refresh rate and fast 1ms response time. With QLED display technology, it achieves more vivid colors and contrast and greater overall brightness than most gaming monitors, as well. As with most of our picks, its main drawback is cost, which is particularly amplified here as long, curved screens are much more expensive to produce than standard, flat resolutions.

Prefer a flatscreen and saving a ton? Samsung makes great monitors in general, and the 43-inch Odyssey Neo G7 offers a 4K UHD, 144Hz, 1ms, VESA Display HDR600 with Quantum Matrix Technology, AMD FreeSync Premium Pro, and Samsung Gaming Hub access.

Best budget: ASUS TUF Gaming 27-inch 1440P HDR Gaming Monitor (VG27AQ)

Asus

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Why it made the cut: The Asus TUF VG27AQ delivers incredible performance for under $400.

Specs

  • Size: 27 inches
  • Panel type: IPS
  • Native resolution: 1440p
  • Refresh rate: 165Hz
  • Response time: 1ms
  • Display ports: DisplayPort, HDMI 2.0
  • Variable refresh rate: G-Sync, FreeSync
  • HDR: HDR10

Pros

  • 1440p and high refresh rate
  • Good ergonomic options
  • Incredible value for spec

Cons

  • Weak HDR

It’s hard to find a better performance-to-price ratio than ASUS’ TUF Gaming VG27AQ. At 27 inches, 1440p, 165Hz, and a 1ms response time, this relatively cheap monitor means you’re ready for both visually rich immersion and lightning-speed competition. It even features ergonomic adjustments like height, tilt, and swivel, often one of the first sacrifices you make for a cheaper monitor. The only substantial drawback is that the overall brightness is insufficient to really let the HDR pop. Still, sacrifices had to be made somewhere for such an otherwise excellent monitor at this price.

What to look for when choosing the best gaming monitor

When researching gaming monitors, companies will throw a lot of numbers at you. Some of these specs—like size, resolution, and refresh rate—are extremely important. Others are a bit more granular. Here’s a rundown of the top details to watch before you pick up your next display.

Size and resolution

Many PC gamers believe bigger is better, but that isn’t always true. Size, resolution, and where you sit relative to the monitor are all intimately connected, and you should consider them all together when picking the best gaming monitor for you. A monitor’s size, listed in inches, refers to the diagonal length from corner to corner. PC monitors typically range from 19 to 34 inches. 

Resolution refers to the number of pixels on the screen, given in width by height. For gaming monitors, the three relevant contemporary resolutions are 1920 x 1080 (“1080p” or “HD”), 2560 x 1440 (“1440p” or “Quad HD”), and 3840 x 2160 (“4K” or “Ultra HD/UHD”). More pixels mean more detailed images, but also demand much more of your graphics card, so one of the biggest limiting factors for your monitor purchase should be the resolution at which your hardware can comfortably operate (unless you are trying to futureproof for some later upgrade). The benefits of more pixels are also lost on smaller monitors, where you won’t really be able to see the difference. For a small monitor—anything less than 27 inches—stick with 1080p. For 27- to 30-inch monitors, you probably want 1440p. For monitors larger than 30 inches, 4K is ideal.

Where you sit also factors in because being closer to a screen means it fills more of your vision, effectively making it larger. A 32-inch monitor might be great in theory, but if it’s dominating your desk, you might strain your neck trying to take it all in. Ergonomics experts recommend that the top of the monitor should sit around your eye level, so you minimize strain from having to look up at it, so keep that in mind when measuring your space. There’s no one best setup for size and resolution, so you should weigh both your hardware’s power and the setting in which you’ll be using it to pick the configuration that will give you the most bang for your buck

Refresh rate and response time

Refresh rate and response time are hugely important when it comes to finding the best gaming monitor. A refresh rate, expressed in Hertz (Hz), tells you the maximum number of times your monitor can update the status of what’s happening on your PC per second. In games, that translates to the game’s frame rate, or how many frames of animation your screen can show. The higher the refresh rate, the better and smoother the image. Refresh rates can range from 30Hz to 300Hz, but you’ll most commonly see 60Hz, 144Hz, and 240Hz. For modern AAA gaming, we generally recommend a 140Hz monitor. Still, there are exceptions: For esports, many players will choose the highest possible refresh rate to have the best reaction time, even at the expense of resolution and screen size. On the opposite end, 4K monitors are not as ubiquitous as 4K TVs and are still very expensive, so you may find yourself picking out a 4K/60fps model if the resolution is a priority for you.

In addition to a high refresh rate, you want to find a monitor with a short response time. Response time measures how quickly the monitor can change a pixel from black to white (or through shades of gray, depending on the monitor type). A longer response time means more motion blur, which can really mess up gameplay. Most monitors feature a 1ms response time, which is acceptable. There’s often more variation than the manufacturer’s letting on, but for this crash course, 1mm is good enough for most people.

Variable refresh rate

One very common feature worth highlighting is “variable refresh rate,” which refers to a monitor’s ability to smoothly ramp the frame rate up and down on the fly to match hardware performance. This leads to smoother visuals, specifically reducing the screen stuttering and tearing that can sometimes happen in video games, particularly when visuals are intense. There are two major versions of this technology: Nvidia’s proprietary G-Sync, and competitor AMD’s more open FreeSync technology. While some monitors are compatible with both, many only support one or the other, so if your machine’s graphics card can support it (depending on whether Nvidia or AMD makes it), be sure and get a compatible monitor to enjoy the benefits.

Do you want a curved monitor for gaming?

Curved monitors—which create a more immersive experience by allowing you to use your full field of view, including your peripheral vision—have become increasingly popular in gaming circles. Though they come in all shapes and sizes, they typically need to be large to create a wide field of view and often come in “ultrawide” screen sizes to maximize their effects.

When picking a curved display, you need to look at the depth of the curve, in addition to the usual size and resolution specs. The Monitor curvature, expressed as R, tells you the radius of the monitor’s curve. The number typically ranges from 1000R to 4000R. The lower the number, the deeper the curve. According to monitor manufacturer ViewSonic, the number also serves as a quick reference for how far away you should position yourself from your monitor. If you have a 4000R monitor, you should also sit 4 meters away from the monitor when you play to minimize eye fatigue and to get the best viewing experience.

The curved monitor can be a very cool way to enhance your games, but it is an “advanced” purchase for PC-savvy players who really know what they want. Many games require extra settings adjustments to work properly on wider curved displays. Also, picking a curved display usually means committing to a one-display setup since your curved monitor has to be centered. That may not fit players who work from home and use their PCs for work and play. If you’re into monitors and optimizing your experience, buying one may be life-changing, but new PC gamers might want to start with a flat panel and work their way up to it. 

FAQs

Q: Is 165Hz good for a gaming monitor?

Yes, given that 60 frames per second is still the industry-standard stable target, 165Hz gives you lots of room to handle the fastest any game will run. We generally recommend 144Hz displays for most players, unless you’re specifically looking for an “esports monitor” to give you an edge in competitive play.

Q: Is a 30-inch monitor too big for gaming?

While it is ultimately a matter of taste, most would describe 32-inch monitors as the upper limit for a comfortable gaming experience. Depending on how close you like to sit to your screen, a 30- or 32-inch monitor may require you to move your neck to see the far corners of the screen, leading to fatigue and strain over time.

Also, it bears repeating that as size goes up pixel density goes down, so a 32-inch 1080p display will look worse than a smaller screen with the same specs. At that size, you should primarily look for 4K displays.

Q: Is 240Hz better than 144Hz?

Yes, a 240Hz monitor will offer a higher level of fidelity than an external display with a lower refresh rate. That said, most games can’t run at 120FPS, and wouldn’t be able to take full advantage of the added speed.

Q: Should I get one or two gaming monitors?

No, gaming is a single-screen pursuit—unless you’re playing on Nintendo’s DS, 3DS, or WiiU platforms—so two gaming monitors aren’t necessary. If you’re planning on streaming your gameplay on Twitch, and want to keep an eye on your chat, a second non-gaming-specific monitor could be a good option.

Q: Does having 2 gaming monitors affect GPU performance?

Yes. Playing games on multiple monitors would impact your GPU performance since resources would have to be split between them.

Q: What’s the best panel tech for a gaming monitor?

OLED panels would offer the best color performance, but that screen technology hasn’t made its way into the mainstream gaming monitor world. A few OLED options exist, but they’re few and far between.

Q: What type of monitor is best for FPS gaming?

The FPS (First Person Shooter) genre of games benefit most from faster display panels, so any gaming monitor with a 240Hz refresh rate would work best.

Q: How much should a gaming monitor cost?

This will depend on its size, resolution, and refresh rate. An entry-level gaming monitor shouldn’t cost more than $250, but you can spend upwards of $1500 if you want a cutting-edge external display.

Q: What gaming monitor do pro gamers use and why?

Esports pros usually prefer smaller monitors than casual gamers because they minimize the effort required to take in the entire screen. Being able to process information quickly is one of the most fundamental skills in any competitive video game, and 24 inches is the standard size that tends to best fill their field of vision without overwhelming it. When playing video games is your job, tiny ergonomic factors are dramatically amplified, so comfort and utility take precedence over aesthetic immersion.

Final thoughts on the best gaming monitors

The best gaming monitor is designed to fit your space, enhance your gaming experience, and elevate the visuals of your favorite games. As long as you feel confident about the way you hope to play and the setup that you want, we feel confident you’ll be able to find the perfect fit. Don’t skimp on scoping out the specs, and stick to your goals, even if that means waiting a little more time to save. The next best monitor for gaming is always right around the corner, so make sure you are super satisfied with your choice.

Why trust us

Popular Science started writing about technology more than 150 years ago. There was no such thing as “gadget writing” when we published our first issue in 1872, but if there was, our mission to demystify the world of innovation for everyday readers means we would have been all over it. Here in the present, PopSci is fully committed to helping readers navigate the increasingly intimidating array of devices on the market right now.

Our writers and editors have combined decades of experience covering and reviewing consumer electronics. We each have our own obsessive specialties—from high-end audio to video games to cameras and beyond—but when we’re reviewing devices outside of our immediate wheelhouses, we do our best to seek out trustworthy voices and opinions to help guide people to the very best recommendations. We know we don’t know everything, but we’re excited to live through the analysis paralysis that internet shopping can spur so readers don’t have to.

The post The best gaming monitors in 2023 appeared first on Popular Science.

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The best PS5 accessories of 2023 https://www.popsci.com/reviews/best-ps5-accessories/ Mon, 22 Nov 2021 22:59:39 +0000 https://www.popsci.com/?p=394116
Best ps5 accessories
Natasha Roy

Outfit your PlayStation 5 with some of the best accessories available, from headsets to charging stations. 

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Best ps5 accessories
Natasha Roy

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Best PS5 Controller PlayStation 5 controller is our pick for best PS5 accessories. PlayStation DualSense
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Sony took the fan-favorite DualShock 4 and made it even better, adding improved haptic feedback and a slick new look.

Best PS5 Headset SteelSeries Arctis 7P is our pick for the best PS5 accessories. SteelSeries 7P
SEE IT

An all-purpose headset that ticks all the boxes PS5 players could need with style, reliability, and most importantly, fantastic sound.

Best PS5 Remote This PS5 remote is our pick for the best PS5 accessories. PlayStation Media Remote
SEE IT

Sony’s PS5 media remote is a simple, sleek, and has everything you need to turn your PS5 into a binge-watching hub.

If you’re one of the lucky few who have snagged a PlayStation 5 despite the seemingly perpetual shortage, you’ll want to make the most out of your time with it. High-quality PS5 accessories can take your gaming to the next level—whether it means chatting with friends while playing, improving your storage space with a hard drive, or adding a controller for multiplayer fun with friends or family. The best PS5 accessories will help make your new system an even better place to play, and can be tailored to your unique interests and gaming preferences.

How we selected the best PS5 accessories

Since we’re still in the first year of the PS5’s life cycle, there isn’t a wide variety of options for many of the core PS5 accessories we normally look for when buying a new console. That said, there is still enough strong line of first-party accessories to choose from, with Sony taking the lead when it comes to the latest PS5 tech. There are a couple of exceptions, which we picked through testing, research, and conferring with expert reviewers. Snag them online to level up your gaming setup in no time.

Best PS5 accessories: Here’s what we recommend 

Best PS5 controller: PlayStation 5 DualSense Controller

Sony

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Why it made the cut: Sony took the fan-favorite DualShock 4 and made it even better, adding improved haptic feedback and a slick new look. It’s the best PlayStation controller yet. 

Specs:

  • Estimated battery life: 12 hours
  • Notable features: Adaptive triggers, haptic feedback, dual analog sticks
  • Connections: Wireless, USB-C wired
  • Sound: Built-in speaker and microphone 
  • Colors: White, Cosmic Red, Midnight Black 
ProsCons
Striking design Can be difficult to find
Comfortable matte design Slightly short battery life
Haptic feedback and adaptive triggers

The PlayStation 5’s new controller, the DualSense, is a huge improvement over the PS4’s DualShock 4 controller. Not only is it more comfortable to hold, but it enhances games with new features like haptic feedback that can provide precise tactile feedback that match your character’s in-game actions. Similarly, its new responsive triggers produce similar effects, like simulating the tension that builds when you draw back on a bow. Throw in solid battery life with USB-C charging and a comfortable matte grip, and you have one of the best gamepads out there.

Best PS5 wireless headset: SteelSeries Arctis 7P

SteelSeries

SEE IT

Why it made the cut: An all-purpose headset that ticks all the boxes PS5 players could need with style, reliability, and most importantly, fantastic sound. 

Specs:

  • Estimated Battery Life: Up to 24 hours
  • Weight: 14.88 ounces
  • Dimensions: 20.7 x 21 x 5.3 cm
ProsCons
Great audio  No Bluetooth
Noise-canceling mic
Long battery life

A great gaming PS5 headset is an absolute necessity for gaming on PS5, especially if you’re into online multiplayer. The SteelSeries Arctis 7P is an absolutely excellent option if you need a well-rounded set of PS5 headphones for in-game audio and a clear mic for chat. Designed specifically for PlayStation, the Arctis 7P connects to the console wirelessly via a low-latency 2.4 GHz wireless dongle so you can enjoy bullets whizzing past your head and shout commands to your team all the way across the room. It’s adjustable, comfortable, and includes an estimated 24-hour battery life so you can get in on those marathon gaming sessions. 

Best PS5 charging station: PlayStation DualSense Charging Station 

PlayStation

SEE IT

Why it made the cut: Sony’s wireless charging dock makes it easy to charge two DualSense controllers without plugging them in.

Specs:

  • Dimensions: 7.64 x 4.8 x 2.72 inches
  • Weight: 1.11 lbs
  • Connectivity: USB-C
  • Number of controllers charged: 2
  • Charge time: About 5 hours
ProsCons
Quick charge time for 2 controllers Can’t charge while you play
Matches PS5 aesthetic

The DualSense Controller offers around 12 hours of battery life, but everybody needs to charge some time. The DualSense Charging Station makes that process a little easier and more aesthetically pleasing by letting you charge using a small dock, rather than plugging your controllers in. It’s especially useful for families, couples, or anyone who shares a PS5 and finds themselves in need of an additional controller more often than not. Whether you have two players or alternate controllers to ensure you never need to stop for a charging break, it makes for a great place to store DualSense controllers, as this PS5 accessory is a bit too pricey to just leave lying around. 

Best PS5 camera: PlayStation 5 HD Camera

PlayStation

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Why it made the cut: Sony’s entry-level camera ticks all the boxes and more that you’d expect from a proprietary peripheral, making it an easy and affordable choice. 

Specs:

  • Lenses: Two
  • Microphone: Yes
  • Weight: 0.3 lbs 
  • Resolution: 1920 x 1080
  • Dimensions: 4.72 in x 7.44 in x 2.68 in
ProsCons
High quality video Not compatible with PSVR
Affordable
Great option for casual streaming

Streaming gameplay is an exciting pastime, especially when it involves incredible-looking games and new hardware like the PS5. If you’re streaming directly from your console, a PlayStation HD Camera can enhance your broadcast on Twitch or YouTube. Like the rest of Sony’s line of PS5 accessories and products, it matches the console, and comes with a special built-in stand. Most importantly, its dual wide-angle lenses offer 1080p capture, which means higher-quality streaming and a spacious view of your gaming space. It also features some ability to fine-tune your camera footage and stream, including background removal tools to help stream the best image possible. It’s a neat piece of equipment for budding casual streamers looking to test the waters on Twitch or get their feet wet with their very first cam setup. 

Best PS5 remote: PlayStation Media Remote

PlayStation

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Why it made the cut: It’s a simple yet sleek media remote with dedicated streaming buttons and everything you need to turn your PS5 into a binge-watching hub.

Specs:

  • Dimensions: 7.75 x 3.5 x 1.75 in
  • Weight: 6.2 ounces 
  • Batteries: 2 AA 
ProsCons
Crisp designNo customizable buttons
Dedicated streaming buttons
Small and light

Not all of the best PS5 accessories are about gaming. More than just a gaming console, the PS5 can also act as a digital hub for your home entertainment. The PS5 Media Remote brings the console’s streaming and TV capabilities to the forefront, making it easier to access movies, TV shows, and music using the kind of remote everyone’s accustomed to. It includes built-in directional navigation buttons as well as the usual media controls—play, pause, fast forward, and reverse. It also features dedicated buttons for some of the console’s most popular streaming apps, including Netflix, YouTube, and Disney+.

Best hard drive: WD Black SN850

WD_BLACK

SEE IT

Why it made the cut: Approved by PlayStation’s Mark Cerny himself, this high-speed SSD is every bit worth the extra effort to install in your PS5. 

Specs:

  • Capacity: Up to 2 TB
  • Interface: PCIe Gen4 x4
  • Connector: M.2
  • Dimensions: 3.1 in x 0.87 in x 0.09 in
ProsCons
Fast read/write speeds Requires technical knowledge to install
Plenty of storage space
Meets PS5 compatibility specs

Video game file sizes are getting bigger all the time. With less than 1TB of storage in the PS5 hard drive, you will very quickly find yourself running out of space for new games. As of August 2021, you need to install a beta version of the PS5 firmware to install a secondary internal hard drive, but it’s never too early to start thinking about the upgrade.

Critics and testers, including PopSci, are working to find the best SSDs for PS5, but the WD Black SN850 is an early frontrunner.  It offers read/write times up to 7000MB/s, well above Sony’s requirements, for improved load times and quicker downloads. It takes a bit of technical know-how to pick a PS5-compatible SSD and a little nerve to install it, but it’s the only way to truly expand your PS5’s storage. (As of now, external hard drives can only run PS4 games). If you want to learn more about PS5 storage, we’ve got all the details you need right here.

What to consider when buying the best PS5 accessories

When selecting accessories for your PS5 setup, you’ll want to think about the types of games you want to play, whether you’re concerned with talk, and even how much space you have to install games. All of these are important factors when you’re looking to build out a “home base” for your new console. 

Be aware of your gaming routine

It helps to be self-aware when planning your gaming sessions. Do you tend to walk away from a game without plugging your controller in to charge? Do you have a good place to put your headset when you’re done? Planning out that pre- and postgame routine can help you keep your gear charged up and your gaming space looking tidy. When everything’s ready and waiting, you get to spend more time playing games.

Let’s have a chat

If you play a lot of team-based multiplayer games where you need to communicate, a great PS5 headset is crucial. Technically you can get by with the microphone built into the DualSense, but a sturdy, comfortable headset will improve the audio experience for you and your teammates.

You can never have enough storage 

Lastly, you’ll want to think about storage. You’ll run out of hard drive space before you know it. You can already delete and reinstall games as you need to, but that takes times and internet bandwidth. If you’d like to avoid that hassle, it is possible to install an SSD in the PS5, or use an external hard drive for your backward-compatible PS4 games.

FAQs

Q: Are third-party PS5 accessories worth buying?

Absolutely. While Sony released some incredible first-party products alongside the PS5, there are a wide range of third-party accessories that are definitely worth picking up. Major headset retailers such as Razer or SteelSeries offer PS5-compatible products that offer even higher-quality sound than what Sony’s headset can, though there is a tradeoff in that you might lose the 3D Audio capabilities. Similarly, there are great options for charging stations, hard drives, and other products available for PS5. 

Q: What PS5 accessories are necessary?

Technically, none. You’ll need a DualSense controller to play PS5 games, but the console comes with one in the box. That said, many players do find themselves in need of some peripheral or another as they spend more time with any game console. At the bare minimum, it’s always good to have a second controller for when you decide to play local multiplayer games or when your first one tuckers out. Plus, you don’t want to miss out the PS5’s spatial audio tech for gaming headsets. Ultimately, though, the best PS5 accessories are ones that let you do more.

Q: Are PS5 accessories in stores?

Yes, though I understand why you’d ask! Like the PS5 console, first-party PS5 accessories can be difficult to find. The situation isn’t quite as dire as with the console itself, though. If you can’t find any of these accessories from online retailers, a trip to the store may help you find what you need.

Our final thoughts on picking the best PS5 accessories

The best PS5 accessories will actively improve your experience with Sony’s newest console. You may not be able to find all of them in stock or at a store at once due to the system’s popularity and global supply chain issues, but these are the ones we think you should snap up when you go shopping. Sit back, relax, pick your DualSense Controller up off of that charging station. It’s game time.

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Get a Razer gaming laptop for $700 off on Amazon https://www.popsci.com/gear/gaming-laptop-amazon-sale/ Wed, 19 Apr 2023 18:55:21 +0000 https://www.popsci.com/?p=535266
A Razer gaming laptop on a purple gradient background
Amanda Reed

You'll need powerful equipment to overcome evil and bring peace to the land—and this Razer laptop is just one piece of invaluable inventory.

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A Razer gaming laptop on a purple gradient background
Amanda Reed

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The Legend of Zelda: Tears of the Kingdom comes out in 23 days—not that anyone is counting. This means it’s time to prepare, including snagging the new Zelda OLED Switch, this Zelda control, this Zelda controller, this Zelda controller, and upgrading your gaming laptop so you definitely don’t emulate old TLoZ games to refresh yourself on the lore. Amazon has you covered there with this 17-inch Razer gaming laptop that’s $700 off.

Razer Blade 17 Gaming Laptop $2,699.99 (Was $3,399.99)

Razer

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Perform precise gameplay thanks to an RTX 3070 TI GPU, 12th-gen Intel Core i9 14-core CPU, and a QHD 240 Hz display. And, you can easily upgrade memory and storage, but an included DDR5 RAM and M.2 NVMe SSD should keep you happy and content while you hunt ghosties with friends in Phasmaphobia or dress up your horse in Red Dead Redemption 2. Vapor Chamber Cooling will minimize the laptop heating up when gameplay does, all while remaining quiet. Plus, it has all the important ports, like HDMI 2.1, 2 USB-C ports, 3 USB-A ports, a 3.5 mm audio jack, an Ethernet port, and an SD card slot.

No gaming setup is complete without some RGB lights, and this GE CYNC Smart LED Light Strip bundle— compatible with Alexa and Google Home—is on sale for $15.68, down from its $20.25 OG price.

The sage village leader tells our hero protagonist that they have to act quickly to overcome the powers of evil that are plaguing the land in every video game—we at least agree on the “acting quick” part. Snag this gaming laptop deal before it gets into the wrong hands.

Here are other deals that are fair game:

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The best 49-inch monitors of 2023 https://www.popsci.com/gear/best-49-inch-monitors/ Tue, 28 Jun 2022 17:00:00 +0000 https://www.popsci.com/?p=452097
Best 49-inch monitors sliced header image
Stan Horaczek

Go extremely big with your next computer monitor.

The post The best 49-inch monitors of 2023 appeared first on Popular Science.

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Best 49-inch monitors sliced header image
Stan Horaczek

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Best overall Samsung Odyssey Neo G9 Samsung Odyssey Neo G9
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Impressive specs and built quality have made this one of the most popular ultrawide options on the market.

Best features Philips Brilliance 499P9H Philips Brilliance 499P9H
SEE IT

This massive, feature-packed screen earns all of the desk space it takes up with advanced features and excellent image quality.

Best for gaming on a budget Asus ROG Strix Curved Gaming Monitor Asus ROG Strix Curved Gaming Monitor
SEE IT

This Republic of Gamers monitor offers offers many big gaming features without a huge price tag.

A larger monitor can drastically improve work-from-home, gaming, or office setups. They easily allow you to view multiple pages, applications, or files at once without the need for multiple displays. And when you’re done with work they give you an unbeatable gaming experience. Most 49-inch monitors offer an ultrawide 32:9 aspect ratio and viewing angles of around 178 degrees. With a screen this wide you will be able to multitask and have a broad workspace, like spreading out documents across a desk in real life, but you won’t suffer from wasted time flipping between screens or various monitors.

To help you find what you need, whether it be for gaming or productivity, we curated this list of the best 49-inch monitors for a variety of different users so that you can have everything you need right at your fingertips and in front of your face.

How we chose the best 49-inch monitors

To find the best 49-inch monitors, we scoured the internet for dozens of expert reviews and roundups from trusted sources, then compared those with peer suggestions and user impressions to find a collection of the best 49-inch monitors available. We not only looked at the specs of these monitors—including performance statistics like refresh rate and brightness—but we also surveyed their physical attributes, including stand size and weight. 

We then compiled a list of our favorite monitors from across all these sources and reviewed statistics to determine the best monitors for individual, and varied, needs. We focused on models with solid image quality for a reasonable price. We also suggest specific features for different users, as a productivity-minded person won’t value gaming-specific metrics in the same way. 

The best 49-inch monitors: Reviews & Recommendations

Best overall: Samsung Odyssey Neo G9

SAMSUNG

SEE IT

Why it made the cut: Impressive specs and built quality have made this one of the most popular ultrawide options on the market.

Specs

  • Refresh Rate: 240 Hz
  • Resolution: 5120×1440
  • Response Time: 2ms
  • Brightness: 420 nits
  • Panel Type: VA
  • Price: $2,299.99

Pros

  • Impressive refresh rate
  • High resolution
  • Natural curve that matches most people’s eyesight
  • Impressive looking
  • Flexible stand

Cons

  • Hefty price tag 
  • Aggressive curve works for most people but will seem disorienting for some

This monitor comes at a premium price but, with it, you get Samsung’s reliability and a slew of premium features that justify its cost. 

This monitor is particularly suited to gaming thanks to its high refresh rate, response time, and resolution. Its 240 Hz refresh rate is blazingly quick and will keep even your fastest-moving games looking smooth. It also features mini-LED backlighting, which gives you the option for brighter screens, and better control over dimming. The QLED display panel offers exceptional black levels and contrast. 

For additional features, this monitor also has HDMI 2.1 ports, which should support future gaming consoles if you’re a gamer. As the action really starts going, the FreeSync variable refresh rate will make sure that your monitor matches your graphic card without skipping a frame for a consistent, smooth image that will keep you from missing any on-screen content. 

You can also run two completely different inputs, like your computer screen and a video game, or a video game and a reference of a vlogging camera at the same time, in their native resolution, thanks to picture-by-picture.

Best gaming: Samsung CRG9 49-Inch 1440p Ultrawide Monitor

SAMSUNG

SEE IT

Why it made the cut: Get a fantastic gaming experience without taxing your PC too much.

Specs

  • Refresh Rate: 120 Hz
  • Resolution: 5120×1440
  • Response Time: 4ms
  • Brightness: 1000 nits
  • Panel Type: QLED
  • Price: $849.99

Pros

  • Great resolution
  • Great peak brightness
  • Thin screen borders

Cons

  • Not great quality viewing at an angles

The QLED monitor is also great at color quality and the impressive resolution gives you 108 pixels per inch. Perhaps most impressive, though, is with all those pixels you get 1000 nits brightness, which allows for high dynamic range—great for movies and video games. With the help of black stabilizer, it performs particularly well in scenes that are dark and quickly transitions from dark to light. 

It relies on edge lighting with 10 dimming zones to improve the contrast ratio and provide deeper blacks. When you combine this with the 120 Hz refresh rate, 4ms response time, and AMD FreeSync Premium Pro, it’s a great monitor for those looking to game. And for a bit of an extra edge, the virtual aim point allows you to add custom crosshairs as well, whether the game wants you to be able to or not. But we won’t tell anyone.

For productivity purposes, eye saver mode limits the blues for prolonged work and picture-by-picture allows you to work from multiple inputs, though you’ll lose the advanced dimming capabilities. 

Best for productivity: LG 49WL95C-WE

Why it made the cut: It offers lots of space for efficient usage, but doesn’t tack on extra gaming features you may not need.

Specs

  • Refresh Rate: 60 Hz
  • Resolution: 5120×1440
  • Response Time: 5ms
  • Brightness: 350 nits
  • Panel type: IPS
  • Price: $1,999.99

Pros

  • High-quality built-in speakers
  • Good gray uniformity
  • USB-C charging port can support laptop charging
  • Ample resolution
  • IPS display

Cons

  • Not very bright
  • Price

This monitor is better suited for the productivity-minded, rather than those looking for a gaming edge. That is mostly due to the low refresh rate, which is better for working your large spreadsheets or comparing research documents than it is for hunting down bad guys online. 

A built-in powered USB-C port will minimize clutter on your desk by allowing you to charge your phone or computer straight from the monitor. And for onscreen organization, LG OnScreen Control software gives you the ability to divide the screen for multiple purposes, even running multiple devices with controls from a single keyboard and mouse. 

The monitor handles gradients supremely well, and the grays are consistent, but other aspects of image quality can be lacking. No matter where you put the monitor, be it at a sitting or standing desk, you’ll be comfortable throughout the workday thanks to the standard stand that allows height, tilt, and swivel adjustments.

Best features: Philips Brilliance 499P9H

Adorama

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Why it made the cut: This massive, feature-packed screen earns all of the desk space it takes up with advanced features and excellent image quality. 

Specs

  • Refresh Rate: 70 Hz
  • Resolution: 5120×1440
  • Response Time: 5ms
  • Brightness: 450 nits
  • Panel type: VA
  • Price: $1,209.99

Pros

  • Built-in webcam
  • Bright clear colors
  • Integrated speakers

Cons

  • Refresh rate not great for gaming
  • Pixel density may be lacking for some

This monitor performs well across the important specifications but might stand out more for the handy features and add-ons it sports. 

The image quality is great thanks to a panel that supports a high resolution. This makes it great for photo editing and other work requiring intricate designs. The screen is relatively bright, which helps take advantage of its HDR support. Along with the high resolution, the monitor also has bright colors and a great image, and a respectable refresh rate that might better serve productive uses and video watching more than it would satisfy gamers. 

In addition to these performance aspects though, this monitor also has built-in speakers as well as a built-in webcam. Impressively, while the webcam can support Windows authorization software, it retracts into the body of the monitor when you push it down to ensure your privacy. For connectivity, it has USBs, HDMI, DisplayPort 1.4, an Ethernet jack, and a powered USB-C for charging your laptop. All that takes some heft, though, and this monitor weighs 71 pounds.

Best curved: Dell UltraSharp QHD Curved Monitor 

Amazon Renewed

SEE IT

Why it made the cut: This large productivity monitor offers a mellow curve for when you want to see your information without being surrounded by it. 

Specs

  • Refresh Rate: 60 Hz
  • Resolution: 5120 x 1440
  • Response Time: 8ms
  • Brightness: 350 nits
  • Panel Type: IPS
  • $1,099

Pros

  • USB-C charging port
  • Comes with a software bundle 
  • Great resolution from panel

Cons

  • Lacks HDR or adaptive-sync
  • Slow refresh rate
  • Price

For the productivity minded, this Dell monitor is another great option. While the resolution and IPS panel are great, the refresh rate, along with other features, means it will disappoint most serious gamers. 

It lacks hardcore gaming specs but that may be a plus for productivity-minded people who don’t want a lot of complicated settings they will probably never need. That includes creative pros like photo and video editors.

Productivity is really where this monitor shines. It has a slew of inputs ready to connect devices with USB, powered USB-C, HDMI, and DisplayPorts. It is even possible to connect two separate PCs and toggle between them with the same mouse and keyboard or use side-by-side picture-by-picture. 

This Dual QHD screen, the equivalent of two 27-inch displays) has a much mellower curve of 3800R, which may be more appropriate for many business users. Beware though, the screen is large, weighing nearly 60 pounds with a stand footprint of 10 x 14 inches.

Best for gaming on a budget: Asus ROG Strix Curved Gaming Monitor

ASUS

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Why it made the cut: It offers many popular gaming features without a huge price tag.

Specs

  • Refresh Rate: 144 Hz
  • Resolution: 3840 x 1080
  • Response Time: 4ms
  • Brightness: 450 nits
  • Panel Type: VA
  • Price: $799

Pros

  • Affordable price for such a big screen
  • Great refresh rate
  • Bright picture

Cons

  • Resolution not as great as competitors
  • Pixel density is low

This is another great option for the gamer looking for an immersive experience. Even better, it offers impressive performance for the gamer on the budget with its relatively low price. 

With that low price, you still get an impressive refresh rate of 144 Hz and a decent screen resolution, though the discerning eye might rather go for something with a crisper image. Even still, the AMD FreeSync 2, as well as HDR technology, help whatever image you have on your screen moving smoothly. 

The VA panel handles color range and darks well, while Shadow Boost technology helps brighten dark areas on the screen without washing out the rest of the image. This will help you notice details, like a hiding enemy, in the dark corners of your game. 

A semi-matte finish on the screen helps fight glare if you game in the day, while Asus Eye Care technology will lessen the strain on your eyes if you play deep into the night. No matter how long you stay in front of the screen, you’ll be comfortable thanks to a highly adjustable stand.

Best budget: AOC AGON 49-Inch 120Hz Gaming Monitor

AOC

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Why it made the cut: Despite its relatively low price, it still offers features and specs that will work for avid gamers.

Specs

  • Refresh Rate: 120 Hz
  • Resolution: 5120×1440
  • Response Time: 1ms
  • Brightness: 550 nits
  • Panel Type: VA
  • $859

Pros 

  • 4-year guarantee against dead pixels
  • USB C charging
  • Relative affordability

Cons 

  • Cumbersome stand

This monitor has an impressive resolution, refresh, and response time rates thanks in part to its more affordable VA display panel. Even still, the performance, as well as the color, are strong, especially considering the cost. It operates much like two 1440 monitors put together but, importantly, it doesn’t have a bezel, which makes it a great option for things like linear video editing. 

This may be the exception to the rule of you get what you pay for, in part because even if a pixel on this AOC monitor dies, it is guaranteed for 4 years against dead pixels. It is also compatible with DisplayHDR 400 and Adobe RGB, which is great for those needing precise color editing capabilities like video and photo editors. Along with its refresh rate, it also has Freesync Premium Pro and G-Sync, which work well to smooth images and keep things from looking choppy. 

For additional features, it also comes with a remote control to allow you to control the screen from across the room, like switching between productivity and gaming inputs, and has a USB-C charging port to run things like a keyboard or speakers.

Things to consider when shopping for the best 49-inch monitor

Display resolution

The display resolution will dictate how clear the image on your screen is. It is determined by the number of pixels on your screen. If the resolution is not high enough, you will have blurry images, something you will really notice when blown up to the size of a 49-in monitor.

Refresh rate

Refresh rate is how many times in a second the image on your screen is refreshed with a new image. For normal work monitors, this is usually about 60 times per second, expressed as 60 Hertz. If you are using your monitor for uses with a lot of motion, like watching sports or playing video games, you’ll want the image to refresh more quickly to give you a smoother image with less jerking. Gaming monitors refresh rates can climb as high as 360 Hz. If you’re just doing photo editing, you’ll want to prioritize color reproduction and image quality over refresh rate

Aspect ratio

Aspect ratio is the ratio of the monitor’s width to its height. Many early monitors had a 4:3 ratio and have since moved on to 16:9 and sometimes 3:2. Currently, ultrawide monitors are gaining in popularity, with 32:9 aspect ratio being the most common in the class.

Price

It’s true that49-inch monitors often boast other impressive specs, which pushes their price tags higher than you might expect for a typical display. They regularly eclipse the $1,000 mark. Before you make the leap, consider how often you will use the monitor and how much you will benefit from having this added productivity. You may be able to get several smaller monitors for less money.

Response time

Response time is how long it takes your monitor to go from one color to another—often black to white and then back to black again. Most LCD screens are below 10ms but the fastener the response time, the better, and smoother, your image will be.

Brightness

Brightness measures how much light your LCD monitor produces. This is usually measured in candelas per square meter (cd/m2), often referred to as nits. Brighter monitors can be better in some gaming applications and allow you to adjust to shifting ambient light, including bright daylight through your windows. If you regularly work in an environment with a lot of ambient light, then spending the extra money to get a bright monitor is likely worth it.

Display panel type

Understanding your display panel type will help you understand how the monitor is working and what strengths it may have in color, viewing angles, etc. 

LCD, or liquid crystal displays, have been around for a number of years and use liquid crystals to modify light and produce desired colors, these are backlit to produce the image.

There are several types of panels within the LCD category including VA (Vertical Alignment) displays that are affordable with good color and good viewing angles. Alternatively, IPS (In-Plane Switching) may be a bit more expensive but provide rich, consistent, and accurate colors at any angle.

You can also get OLED, or Organic Light-Emitting Diode, where each pixel emits its one light rather than needing to be backlit. Each pixel can also be turned off which allows it to create blacker blacks. There is still some concern on the market that these screens could have images “burn in” much like older plasma TVs did if you leave a single image on the screen for too long. These monitors are also very rare and expensive.

FAQs

Q: How much does a 49-inch monitor cost?

If you are ready for a 49-inch monitor, prepare to pull out your checkbook or high-limit credit card. Most 49-inch monitors regularly eclipse $1,000 and depending on performance, some can go far above that cost.

Q: Is a 49-inch monitor too big?

For productivity and gaming, you’ll enjoy the massive size of these monitors. The size may become an issue though if you consider the physical space in the rest of your home. Many of these monitors require lots of space on your desk, weigh dozens of pounds, and will require a wide enough space to accommodate their width.

Q: How does IPS compare to VA?

As we talked about above IPS and VA panels are two types of LCD monitors. VA panels have great contrast ratio, which makes them great for viewing details in dark images, but they usually have a slower response time that can be frustrating in some gaming situations. IPS monitors are more expensive but have great color consistency, quick response time, and wide viewing angles. Though, they don’t do as well in contrast ratio and may suffer in some dark video uses.

Q: How heavy is a 49-inch monitor?

Prepare to have a strong desk, and someone help you carry the monitor inside because 49-inch monitors are very heavy. Most weigh dozens of pounds and we have seen some that top the scales at more than 70 pounds.

Q: Do large monitors increase productivity?

This depends on the kind of worker you are, the work you do, and how much having multiple pages visible at the same time helps you. Many people find their productivity increases as they don’t need to flip between various virtual monitors or navigate between monitors with bezels in between. How much a difference it will make for you, however, is a personal journey.

Q: Can a laptop run a 49-inch monitor?

Most modern laptops will have no issue. To be safe, make sure you have a laptop that supports HDMI 1.4 and has a GPU (graphics processing unit) that can support 1440p.

Q: Is 1000R better than 1800R?

These are measurements of how curved the curved screen is. The number is a measure of the radius, meaning a higher number will be a flatter screen, and a lower number will be more curved. A series of lined-up 1000R monitors would create a closed circle with a radius of 1 meter. More curved monitors (with lower numbers) are great for creating a more immersive experience that can be great for gamers. 1000R monitors are fairly close to the curvature with which we see the world, so it can be easier on the eyes and feel more realistic for gamers. 

Those using these monitors for productivity though will find that having a less extreme curve can give you the benefit of an easier-to-navigate field of view for various pages, without feeling like you’re “immersed” in your spreadsheet.

Final thoughts on the best 49-inch monitors

Whether for fun or for productivity, a 49-inch monitor can vastly improve your field of vision. Beware though, this improvement will come at a price and require a lot of desk space. However, if you have the budget, and the room, you’ll notice a huge improvement in what you are able to see and do all at the same time.

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The best cheap gaming PCs in 2023 https://www.popsci.com/reviews/best-cheap-gaming-pcs/ Tue, 18 Jan 2022 08:55:00 +0000 https://www.popsci.com/?p=405428
The best cheap gaming PCs
Brandt Ranj / Popular Science

Full-size gaming, pint-sized price. Here are our picks for inexpensive PCs that overperform.

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The best cheap gaming PCs
Brandt Ranj / Popular Science

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Best Overall HP Pavilion Gaming TG01 2710m is the best cheap gaming PC. HP Pavilion Gaming Desktop TG01-2170m
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The HP Pavilion TG01-2170m offers great performance, even in the latest games.

Best for work and play CLX Set Battlebox CLX Set Battlebox
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CLX’s Set Battlebox is great to use, nice to look at, and easy to upgrade.

Best budget Acer Predator Orion 3000 is the best cheap gaming PC. Acer Predator Orion 3000
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The Acer Predator Orion 3000 comes with specs that will let new players explore what makes PC gaming great.

PC gaming and gaming PCs have never been so exciting. Over the last few years, we’ve seen an explosion of new technologies like ray tracing and intelligent upscaling, which make games look and play better than ever before. Diving into the PC gaming world can seem daunting and expensive, but it doesn’t need to be. Whether you’re looking to get lost in New World or stay up until the wee hours with just “one more turn” in Civilization VI, we’ve rounded up the best cheap gaming PCs to get you gaming without breaking the bank. These PCs can make excellent gifts if you’ve got a serious gamer in your life (it can be yourself) but are on a tighter budget. We even have a compact gaming PC if they’re short of space but still want to play titles on Steam rather than stores created by Microsoft, Sony, or Nintendo. The best cheap gaming PCs also allow your favorite gamer to play non-console games on their big screen.

How we chose the best cheap gaming PCs

I’ve been a PC builder for more than 15 years and a tech critic for IGN, Tom’s Hardware, PC Perspective, and MMORPG.com for over half a decade. In that time, I’ve become intimately familiar with the components that make gaming PCs tick. A high price doesn’t always mean the best performance, and a low price doesn’t necessarily mean good value. So, for this round-up, I’ve scoured retail sites with an eye toward the hardware inside each machine. After finding the best bang for the buck in each product category, I looked closely at user reviews to identify any red flags, such as poor packaging or carelessness in the build process.  

The best cheap gaming PCs: Reviews & recommendations

Now you know what to look for to ensure the optimum experience at the best price. Here’s our selection of the best cheap gaming laptops we’ve found for around $1,000. In most cases, you can upgrade if the model you selected doesn’t have all the features you want.

Best overall: HP Pavilion Gaming Desktop TG01-2170m

Why it made the cut: The HP Pavilion TG01-2170m offers great performance, even in the latest games.

Specs

  • Price: $1009.99 
  • CPU: AMD Ryzen 3 5600G
  • GPU: Nvidia GeForce RTX 3060
  • Memory: 16GB
  • Storage: 256GB 

Pros

  • Can be configured up to an RTX 3060
  • Highly customizable
  • Compact design

Cons

  • Limited configuration options under $1,000 with the RTX 3060
  • Small SSD

The HP Pavilion easily offers the overall best cheap gaming PC we’ve encountered. This configuration equips it with a powerful RTX 3060 and 16GB of RAM for $1,309, making it the most powerful gaming PC in our line-up. It’s capable of the best FPS of any machine we considered and can be pushed even further with only a slightly higher budget. 

The stock prebuilt price here is higher than our target, but the good news is that you can go to HP’s online store and configure it with a much wider range of specs. If you’re willing to drop to a quad-core Ryzen 3 5300G, you can get the price down to an impressive $1,019. Of course, we’d recommend spending a little more to get a better processor or a bigger hard drive. No matter how much you spend, though, you can get a lot of machine for your money.

Best for streaming and content creation: Lenovo Legion Tower 5i

Lenovo

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Why it made the cut: This PC delivers great 1080p frame rates and offers plentiful storage.

Specs

  • Price: $1,139.99
  • CPU: Intel Core i5-11500
  • GPU: Nvidia GeForce GTX 1660 SUPER
  • Memory: 32GB
  • Storage: 1GB SSD, 2TB HDD

Pros

  • Lots of storage
  • Great GPU for 1080p gaming
  • 6-core, 11th-gen Intel CPU

Cons

  • Bland design
  • Included accessories are generic

The Legion Tower 5i from Lenovo is easily the best cheap gaming PC for new content creators looking for a machine to let them try streaming on a budget. It comes equipped with a high-quality, modern Intel processor with enough cores to handle gaming and streaming simultaneously. Its Nvidia GTX 1660 SUPER has plenty of horsepower to run modern games at medium to high settings, ensuring your audience has the high-quality stream they crave. When it’s time to edit together your latest killstreak, it has space to spare with its 1TB SSD (perfect for installing your favorite game or two) and a 2TB hard drive for archiving video clips. 

The one area where this PC feels limited is memory, as it only includes 32GB of system memory. This ensures great stream performance, especially if you want to monitor your chat in a second window. The rest of the system is uniquely suited to aspiring streamers, so we recommend it.

Best compact: BOSGAME Mini PC

Bosgame

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Why it made the cut: Bosgame’s Mini PC is a tiny computer that can hide out behind your monitor but has the horsepower for both streaming and content creation.

Specs

  • Price: $499.99
  • CPU: Ryzen 7 5600H
  • GPU: Integrated
  • Memory: 16GB
  • Storage: 512GB 

Pros

  • Powerful AMD Ryzen 7 CPU and 16GB of RAM
  • Pint-sized
  • 512GB NVMe SSD

Cons

  • Integrated graphics only

The Bosgame Mini PC is tiny, but don’t mistake its small size for low power. This compact gaming PC can run most modern games at 1080P with medium settings enabled, and you may be able to eke out even more performance on a game-by-game basis. That’s largely due to the machine’s Ryzen 7 5800U 8-core processor, 16GB of RAM, and NVMe SSD. These are components we’d expect to see in computers that cost one to two hundred dollars more. AMD has put a lot of work into making its integrated graphics chips as powerful as possible, so while this Mini PC’s graphics card is its greatest liability, it’s by no means weak.

Bosgame went out of its way to equip its mini PC with a ton of ports. Three HDMI ports around the back allow you to connect this computer to three 4K monitors simultaneously, and the generous number of USB-A ports makes connecting peripherals a snap. We’re especially fond of the USB-A and USB-C ports on the front of this machine, which make plugging in a thumb drive much more convenient. If your gaming space and budget are both limited, Bosgame’s Mini PC may be all you need to play Steam games on your big screen.

Best for work and play: CLX Set Battlebox Gaming PC

Brandt Ranj / Popular Science

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Why it made the cut: Getting a Battlebox Gaming PC from CLX will set you up for a long, long time.

Specs

  • Price: $1,199
  • CPU: AMD Ryzen 5 5600X
  • GPU: GeForce RTX 3060
  • Memory: 16GB
  • Storage: 1TB SSD

Pros

  • See-through case
  • Excellent performance
  • Designed to be upgraded

Cons

  • Appearance won’t appeal to all

I checked out a budget-friendly CLX’s Battlebox Gaming PC build, and it’s certainly the computer I’d recommend to computer gaming enthusiasts. Its see-through case and RGB lighting immediately draw the eye but never got too distracting. If anything, it made my gaming setup more aesthetically pleasing even when it wasn’t turned on.

The benefit of choosing a gaming PC from CLX is the ability to customize its components to suit your needs. This is a common practice for all PC makers, but CLX specializes in gaming hardware, so you’re only given a few choices for each component that would impact how smooth games run.

My PC gaming needs are admittedly modest, and I spent my time playing through indie games like Tunic and Hi-Fi Rush along with older titles from my backlog, like the somewhat-recent 4K remaster of Star Ocean: The Last Hope. These games ran smoothly and accessing the Xbox and Steam apps to access my library was trivially easy.

The CLX build I was given to test was certainly powerful enough to play games like Elden Ring or the upcoming Resident Evil 4 remake with plenty of headroom to spare. On a similar note, popping off the side panel of this PC build was easy, and we immediately had access to all of the computer’s core components. If you’re looking for a gaming PC that’ll last a long time but was also designed to be upgraded when your needs change, this is a great choice.

Best budget: Acer Predator Orion 3000

Why it made the cut: The Acer Predator Orion 3000 brings specs that will let new players explore what makes PC gaming great.

Specs

  • Price: $1,299
  • CPU: Intel Core i7
  • GPU: Nvidia GeForce RTX 3070
  • Memory: 16GB
  • Storage: 1TB

Pros

  • 6-core, 11th-gen Intel CPU
  • Great graphics card for 1080p gameplay
  • Slick but not overstated look

Cons

  • Included mouse and keyboard are unimpressive

For new PC gamers looking for the best cheap gaming PC for beginners, Acer has one of the most compelling bundle packages we’ve come across with the Predator Orion 3000. The desktop expertly balances price, performance, and aesthetics, making for a superb introduction to PC gaming. It has specs capable of streaming, light video editing, and, of course, playing modern PC games. The Predator Orion 3000 bundle also comes with a mouse and keyboard, so all you’ll need is a monitor to get started. 

One of the highlights of this system is its subdued yet stylish look. It doesn’t overdo it with RGB lighting, but its blue front fan and slim LED strips make it clear that this machine is purpose-built for PC gaming. If you’re shopping for a PC gamer who may not have their style preferences set in stone, this is a great entry point. 

The biggest drawbacks to this machine are the generic, unimpressive quality of its included peripherals. And there are great gaming mice and gaming keyboards available when you’re ready to upgrade.

Things to consider before buying a cheap gaming PC

Shopping for a gaming PC on a budget can be a confusing mix of big promises and perplexing specs. It’s important to know what matters most so you can cut through the hype and find a PC that will perform the way you expect it to. When buying a prebuilt gaming PC, the core components are just part of the picture. You also need to remember its capacity to take on upgrades and other factors. Here’s what to keep an eye on when shopping around. 

Graphics card (GPU)

The most important element of any gaming PC is its graphics card. The graphics card, or GPU, is responsible for rendering 3D graphics and is the most influential factor in how many FPS you’ll see in different games. If you spend extra money on a feature, it’s worth your while to get a PC with a more capable graphic card.

Two companies design different types of graphics cards: Nvidia and AMD. They license out their graphics processors to third-party manufacturers, such as EVGA and Sapphire, who create their own versions of each card with specs. These cards are broken into different standardized performance tiers. 

For Nvidia, the first two numbers indicate the card generation, and the third number specifies the caliber of the card. Nvidia current “30”-generation cards include the RTX 3050, RTX 3060, 3070, 3080, and 3090. 

For AMD’s Radeon cards, the first number indicates the generation, and the second specifies the card’s power. AMD’s current Radeon cards include the 6600, 6700, 6800, and 6900. 

Both companies also include half steps, which offer slightly better performance than the base model. For Nvidia, these are noted with the “Ti” or “Super” branding. For AMD, it’s “XT.” 

The most important thing to consider when comparing different versions of the same GPU “make,” such as an Nvidia RTX 3060 or AMD Radeon 6700, is heat. When shopping for a less expensive GPU, a prerequisite for getting a cheap gaming PC, try to avoid GPUs with only one fan or ultra-slim designs. While they may be fine, it is more possible to push a low-end graphics card so hard that it slows down due to “thermal throttling.”

Processor (CPU)

You’ll also want to give some thought to the central processing unit, or CPU. As with graphics cards, there are two primary manufacturers for processors: AMD and Intel. Both companies have a vast catalog of processors that may show up in cheap gaming PC configurations, but AMD’s Ryzen processors or Intel’s Core processors tend to be the most common. Like GPUs, each brand breaks its chips into different performance tiers that ascend in power as their number grows. For Intel, that’s Core i3, Core i5, Core i7, and Core i9. For AMD, that’s Ryzen 3, Ryzen 5, Ryzen 7, and Ryzen 9. For gaming, we recommend sticking to Intel Core i5 and Ryzen 5 CPUs and above if possible.

When deciding which CPU is the best fit for your cheap gaming PC, it’s important to consider exactly what you plan to do with it. While some modern games work better with higher core counts, for pure gaming, a quad-core CPU is probably good enough. If you plan to stream or multitask with video or audio editing software, it’s wise to save up and go for at least six cores to prevent any potential bottlenecks. 

You should also pay attention to the processing speed, measured in GHz. That indicates how many processing cycles a processor can compute per second. For gaming, it’s wise to target the 4GHz to 5GHz range or above (that’s 4 billion to 5 billion processing cycles per second). Many games benefit from higher clock speeds over higher core counts, so higher speed can often result in higher FPS. 

Finally, the generation of processors can also affect your CPU’s performance. New generations of processors often add new features that improve performance in addition to adding more power. As a rule, it’s best to decide on how many cores you need first and then buy the fastest, newest CPU you can afford after that.

Memory (RAM)

Memory is another critical component. Whether you’re gaming, streaming, or just browsing the web with a dozen different tabs open, once your memory fills up, system performance suffers. In 2022, you need at least 8GB of RAM. Realistically, 16GB is the current “sweet spot” for both price and performance but may be hard to find in a less expensive system. Luckily, it is also one of the easiest and most affordable PC upgrades. You can even add more memory yourself.

Storage (HDD, SSD, NVMe)

Games are getting bigger every year, so it’s important to consider how much and what kind of storage you’ll need for the games you want to play. Broadly, there are three kinds of hard drives you should be aware of: mechanical hard drives (HDDs), solid-state drives (SSDs), and NVMe drives. Mechanical hard drives are, by far, the slowest but offer the best capacity per dollar. NVMe drives are the fastest but most expensive. Solid-state drives are a middle ground between price and performance.

When choosing a gaming PC, try to find one with at least an SSD to run your operating system and most-played games. Compared to traditional hard drives, using an SSD as your primary hard drive reduces in-game load times and makes the entire system feel faster and more responsive. Many cheap gaming PCs will feature smaller SSDs, so you may need to swap out which games are installed on them as you finish and move on to new titles. 

The other big thing to consider is how much storage you’ll need altogether. Games are bigger than ever. Call of Duty: Black Ops Cold War, for example, can easily occupy more than 200GB, so settling on a PC with a 256GB hard drive wouldn’t be a good choice for Call of Duty fans. Look at the recommended storage requirements for your favorite games to get an estimate for how much storage space you require. Modern PCs generally have room for many internal hard drives so some gaming PCs may come with a small SSD and larger HDD. You can also install extra hard drives if you’re open to the idea of upgrading on your own.

Monitors, peripherals, and other accessories

If it’s your first time buying a prebuilt gaming PC, you might be surprised to find that prebuilt gaming PCs often don’t come with a mouse and keyboard, and only rarely include a monitor with the tower. Be sure to read the product listing carefully to identify exactly what is included with your purchase.

Though it might not seem so at first, separating the price of the PC from these accessories can actually be a good thing. When you’re purchasing a cheap gaming PC, you want every spare dollar to be invested in the hardware to improve the gaming experience. Often, any accessories that come with a prebuilt PC are poorly made and among the first things you’ll want to replace in a new setup. This isn’t always the case: Sometimes pack-ins can genuinely enhance the value of a PC bundle but look carefully at the whole package when buying a bundle—sometimes the “added value” of the accessories isn’t worth the savings.

Packaging, build quality, and warranty support

One of the most important factors to consider in buying a prebuilt gaming PC online is how well it will be built and how the vendor will actually ship it to you. Certain components, like the graphics card, should be secured during shipping to prevent damage to the motherboard. Other considerations, like cable management, can have a direct impact on the temperature of the PC and its performance in games. These elements are rarely included in online product listings, so it’s worth the extra time to read product reviews from real customers. 

And even the best gaming PC can have problems. Read the warranty guarantee and user reports about how the company handles post-purchase support. This is also a case where investing in an extended warranty isn’t always a bad idea, especially if the factory warranty is only 30 days.

FAQs

Q: Is a gaming PC worth it?

Of course! The world of PC gaming is rich, diverse, and at the cutting edge of game development. Since PCs don’t release in generations the way consoles do and the barriers to entry for developers are fewer, there is a wider array of games to choose from. Many of the most popular games of the last five years have begun their lives on PC, such as PlayerUnknown’s Battlegrounds (PUBG). Likewise, if you want to experience the latest and greatest graphics video gaming has to offer, a PC is usually the first and best way to experience it. If that isn’t enough, PC gaming is notorious for its deep discounts and bundle sales through platforms like Steam, often making it the cheapest way to play games you may have missed when they were first released. 

Q: Are cheap gaming PCs good for work?

A PC that’s great for gaming can still do other things. There are certain upgrades that everyone needs for gaming, but most people don’t need for work—like a graphics card; however, for most people, a gaming PC is really just a really, really powerful computer. Unless the cheap gaming PC is very old, it should be able to handle all of the spreadsheets, PowerPoint presentations, and essays you’d care to throw at it.

Q: Is a $500 gaming PC worth it?

At this time, I’d say no. Buying a $500 gaming PC usually means two things: old hardware and poor performance in modern games. Because the hardware tends to be older, finding upgrades can also be more difficult. Meanwhile, the PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X provide incredible performance for the same $500. There are times, usually late in the PlayStation and Xbox consoles’ life cycles, when it makes sense to build a very cheap gaming PC rather than buying a console. Now is not one of those times.

Q: How much should a gaming PC cost?

This depends on the types of games you want to play, but if you’d like to game in HD at medium settings, there’s no reason to spend more than $500. If you want to play the latest titles at 4K with ray tracing turned on, you may need to spend upwards of $2,000.

Q: Can I build my own gaming PC?

Yes. The most cost-effective way to game on PC is to buy all the parts and assemble them yourself. Be sure to do your research if you go this route to ensure every component is compatible with one another.

Final thoughts on the best cheap gaming PCs

Buying a prebuilt gaming PC can be one of the best ways to join the PC gaming community. For users that aren’t comfortable building their own or are having trouble finding the components they need within their budget, a prebuilt machine can take the stress out of getting started and get you gaming faster.

As with any major tech purchase, there is a lot to consider when shopping for the best cheap gaming PC. Knowing the games you’d like to play, and how you’d like them to run, is the best place to begin and your guiding principle when shopping. Whether you’re just interested in seeing the best graphics possible within your budget or getting your feet wet as a streamer, there are plenty of options worthy of a closer look.    

Why trust us

Popular Science started writing about technology more than 150 years ago. There was no such thing as “gadget writing” when we published our first issue in 1872, but if there was, our mission to demystify the world of innovation for everyday readers means we would have been all over it. Here in the present, PopSci is fully committed to helping readers navigate the increasingly intimidating array of devices on the market right now.

Our writers and editors have combined decades of experience covering and reviewing consumer electronics. We each have our own obsessive specialties—from high-end audio, to video games, to cameras, and beyond—but when we’re reviewing devices outside of our immediate wheelhouses, we do our best to seek out trustworthy voices and opinions to help guide people to the very best recommendations. We know we don’t know everything, but we’re excited to live through the analysis paralysis that internet shopping can spur so readers don’t have to.

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PlayStation voice commands will change how you use your console https://www.popsci.com/diy/playstation-voice-commands/ Tue, 18 Apr 2023 12:23:02 +0000 https://www.popsci.com/?p=534849
Person wearing official PlayStation headset while gaming against a purple background.
You can use any headset with a microphone to control your PS4 and PS5 with your voice. Sony

Get your PlayStation to do what you want only by using your voice.

The post PlayStation voice commands will change how you use your console appeared first on Popular Science.

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Person wearing official PlayStation headset while gaming against a purple background.
You can use any headset with a microphone to control your PS4 and PS5 with your voice. Sony

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The bundled gamepad isn’t the only way to control your PlayStation. Not only can you use a mouse and keyboard, but you can also use voice commands like you would with a smart speaker. Simply say your instructions out loud and your console will obey.

Voice control is a quick and convenient way of performing functions like turning off your PlayStation 4 or PlayStation 5, and launching games. And there are plenty more voice commands to explore.

How to use voice commands on the PlayStation 4

On the PlayStation 4, voice control works via the official PlayStation Camera accessory or any connected headset with a microphone, but you’ll need to enable the feature first. Press and hold the PlayStation button to bring up the quick menu, choose Settings, and then pick System and Voice Operation Settings to turn on Operate PS4 with Voice.

[Related: Best PS4 games to play on PS5]

Before you start talking to your console, you need to say “Playstation” and wait for the microphone icon to appear on screen. You can also press and hold L2 on the DualShock controller to get the console to start listening, but this only works on the home screen. When the mic shows up you can start talking and say multiple instructions in a row.

There are some basic commands that are going to work just about everywhere, including “yes” to agree to a confirmation prompt, “cancel” to reject a confirmation prompt, and “back” to return to a previous screen. You’ll also be able to say the name of any game or app on your console to launch it, but this will only work from the PS4 home screen.

To turn your console off with your voice, open the power options by saying “start power” and then either use the “enter rest mode” command (to put the PS4 into rest mode) or say “turn off PS4” (to turn the console off completely). Unfortunately, no matter whether the console is in rest mode or fully switched off, there’s no way to turn on the PlayStation 4 using your voice as there is on the Xbox.

You can also get around the various different screens in the console interface with your voice—just say “start…” followed by the name of the screen you want to jump to. Available options here include the PlayStation Store, settings, notifications, friends, messages, party, profile, and trophies. You can manage gameplay captures with voice commands as well: say “take screenshot” to do just that, or “start video clip” to begin recording gameplay.

At the time of writing, Sony doesn’t have an official full list of all the PS4 voice commands you can use, but you can see them all through the Voice Operating Settings page under System in Settings: Just choose Commands for Voice Operation. Alternatively, use the voice command “all commands” to see the list.

How to use voice commands on the PlayStation 5

Using your voice to control the PS5 is currently labeled as a “preview” feature, which makes us think it’s perhaps not fully finished, or at least there’s more functionality to come. But it works well already, and there are plenty of voice commands for you to play around with. Unfortunately, they’re not exactly the same as on the PS4.

For the PlayStation 5, you can use the PlayStation Camera (PS5 edition) as a mic, or any connected headset with a mic. As the bundled DualSense controllers also have a mic on them, you can just talk into that as well. Just make sure the microphone is turned on, which you can do by pressing the small button between the joysticks, right under the PS button—it lights up orange when enabled.

To activate this preview feature on your PS5, get to the main Settings page by selecting the cog icon in the top right corner of the home screen, then choose Voice Command (Preview) and turn on the Enable Voice Command toggle switch. It’s a good idea to enable Listen for “Hey PlayStation!” too, otherwise you’ll have to tap the PS button and select Voice every time you want to talk.

[Related: Video games feel different on the PlayStation 5 and that’s a good thing]

The “Hey PlayStation” command will get your console listening, and then you’ve got lots of options. For a start you can say “open…” followed by the name of any app or game you’ve got installed—it’s a quick and convenient way of launching something, especially if it’s got a short name that’s simple to say. You can also use “find…” followed by a game or app title if you’re looking for something in the PlayStation Store.

You’ll also be able to control media playback on any app playing movies or music through your console: For example, commands such as “pause”, “resume” and “fast forward” will do exactly what you’d expect. If you want to make a gameplay video, “capture that” will record the last few minutes of action. You can be more specific by adding a time period to the command (just say “capture the last five minutes”), but if you don’t, the PS5 will use the default duration of 30 seconds instead.

As with the PS4, there’s no official list on the web of all the voice commands supported by the PS5 at the time of writing, but a quick search will reveal plenty of unofficial ones. You can also choose Voice Command (Preview) and then Learn More from Settings on the console itself to see a list of some of the supported commands.

The post PlayStation voice commands will change how you use your console appeared first on Popular Science.

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The best ultrawide gaming monitors in 2023 https://www.popsci.com/reviews/best-ultrawide-gaming-monitors/ Tue, 05 Apr 2022 15:34:33 +0000 https://www.popsci.com/?p=435669
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Stan Horaczek

For when 16:9 just isn't cutting it anymore.

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Best overall BenQ Mobiuz EX3415R is the best ultrawide gaming monitor. BenQ Mobiuz EX3415R
SEE IT

You have to spend a lot more to do better than the BenQ Mobiuz EX3415R.

Best super ultrawide Samsung Odyssey Neo G9 is the best super ultrawide gaming monitor. Samsung Odyssey Neo G9
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The Samsung Odyssey Neo G9 has every bell and whistle you could ask for on a 32:9 gaming monitor.

Best budget Gigabyte M34WQ is the best budget ultrawide gaming monitor. Gigabyte M34WQ
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The Gigabyte M34WQ is the best ultrawide gaming monitor you’ll find for $500.

If you want to completely lose yourself in a video game, an ultrawide gaming monitor is one of the best ways to expand your PC gaming setup. Standard widescreen is great, but ultrawide displays eliminate the need for a secondary display with a giant screen that stretches all the way across your field of vision. Just as with any other category of monitors, though, there are tons of options to choose from, and not all of them will get you what you need. We’ll walk you through the detailed decisions that go into picking the best ultrawide gaming monitors, then highlight some of the best options available in the space.

How we chose the best ultrawide gaming monitors

For a long time, the biggest change in PC monitors was the shift from old CRT screens to flat panel displays. In the last five or 10 years, though, they’ve begun to evolve at a breakneck pace. There are more options than ever now. I’ve been covering both display and GPU technology for the last five years, in addition to building my own PCs and paying attention to new developments in graphics technology as a personal hobby.

To make our selections, we drew upon our monitor testing program, sourced opinions from critics at multiple publications and user impressions from across the internet, and leveraged our general knowledge of display technology. We looked for interesting monitors to fit a few different categories. There’s no price limit on our picks, which means these displays can range anywhere from a few hundred dollars to a few thousand.

The best ultrawide gaming monitors: Reviews & Recommendations

Flat or curved, big or small—it’s time to figure out the best ultrawide monitor for your gaming rig, whether a desktop PC or a laptop. After doing our homework, we think these are top options you can get right now, from the best overall to the very best that money can buy to the best for less, as well as an option that was announced earlier this year that we’re really looking forward to taking for a spin.

Best overall: BenQ Mobiuz EX3415R

BenQ

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Why it made the cut: The BenQ Mobiuz EX3415R has all the big bells and whistles we look for without the heavy price tag.

Specs

  • Panel type: IPS
  • Native resolution (Aspect Ratio): 2560×1440 (21:9)
  • Panel style: Curved (1900R)
  • Color depth: 10-bit
  • Refresh rate: 144 Hz
  • Response time: 1ms
  • Max brightness: 200 nits (typical) / 400 nits (max)
  • Ports: 1 x DisplayPort 1.4; 1 x HDMI 2.0; 2 x USB 3.0 Type-A
  • Ergonomics: Tilt, Height, VESA 100mm mountable
  • Variable refresh rate: Nvidia G-Sync Compatible/FreeSync
  • HDR: HDR10, VESA HDR 400

Pros

  • Loud built-in soundbar
  • Robust feature set
  • Lots of color options
  • Great value

Cons

  • Low brightness

The BenQ EX3415R has it all. This IPS panel offers a 144 Hz refresh rate for fast response in games, 10-bit color to display images accurately, and a gentle 1900R curvature for easy viewing. Add a good set of ports and both G-Sync and FreeSync compatibility, and you have a more or less complete package.

It was hard to pick between the EX3415R and the Alienware AW3420DW—another excellent curved ultrawide display—but the BenQ panel wins out thanks to a higher refresh rate and higher peak brightness. Both models offer great performance and incredible value, though: To get bigger or sharper, you’ll have to spend a lot more money.

Best super ultrawide: Samsung Odyssey Neo G9

Samsung

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Why it made the cut: The Samsung Odyssey Neo G9 outshines every other ultrawide with its giant, rich display … and its sky-high price tag.

Specs

  • Panel type: VA
  • Native resolution (aspect ratio): 5120 x 1440 (32:9)
  • Panel style: Curved (1000R)
  • Refresh rate: 240Hz
  • Response time: 1 ms
  • Max brightness: 420 nits (Typical) / 2000 nits (Max)
  • Ports: 1 x DisplayPort 1.4; 2 x HDMI 2.1; 2 x USB 3.0 Type-A; Earphone Jack; Audio line-out
  • Ergonomics: Height, Swivel, Tilt, VESA 100mm mountable
  • Variable refresh rate: Nvidia G-Sync Compatible/AMD FreeSync
  • HDR: HDR10+

Pros

  • Massive screen
  • Top-tier gaming features
  • HDMI 2.1

Cons

  • Super expensive

If you can afford the $2,500 price tag, the Samsung Odyssey Neo G9 is as good as it gets when it comes to ultrawide displays. The 49-inch, 32:9 screen is quite literally the same screen (and desk) real estate as two displays pushed together, and the 1000R curve allows the display to surround you with bright, vibrant colors whenever you boot up a game. The G9 has tons of ports, including two HDMI 2.1 ports—the only screen on this list that offers them (so you’ll want to pick up the best ultra-high-speed HDMI cables). You could put this screen in almost any category on this list and have it make sense. It’s just that good. You just have to come up with the money to bring it home.

Best for consoles: MSI Optix MPG 341CQR

MSI

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Why it made the cut: The MSI Optix MPG 341CQR is the only ultrawide gaming monitor with console-minded features.

Specs

  • Panel type: VA
  • Native resolution (aspect ratio): 3440 x 1440 (32:9)
  • Panel style: Flat
  • Color depth: 10-bit
  • Refresh rate: 144 Hz
  • Response time: 1 ms
  • Max brightness: 400 nits
  • Ports: 1 x DisplayPort 1.4; 2 x HDMI 2.1; 3 x USB 3.2 Gen2 Type-A; Earphone Jack
  • Ergonomics: Height, Swivel, Tilt, VESA 100mm mountable
  • Variable refresh rate: Nvidia G-Sync Compatible/AMD FreeSync
  • HDR: VESA HDR 400

Pros

  • Console optimization
  • Robust features
  • Good price

Cons

  • Consoles don’t support ultrawide aspect ratios directly

I’ll be blunt: We do not recommend pairing a PlayStation 5 or Xbox Series X with an ultrawide gaming monitor. Right now, only the PS5 supports ultra-wide monitors at 1440p, and it only gained support for variable refresh rates in mid-2022. Many TVs for gaming are far more optimal.

That said, we do have an option if you feel compelled. MSI claims that the Optix MPG 341CQR is optimized specifically for PS5. According to the company, it will accept a 4K signal and downsample it to 1440p rather than upscaling a 1080p signal. This display also supports 120Hz gameplay at 1080p over HDMI—a nice feature for the small but growing number of console games that support it. 

Beyond its PS5 compatibility, the Optix MPG 341CQR is a generally solid display. It offers good color depth, a high refresh rate, lots of USB ports, and a VA panel for good contrast in both well- and dimly-lit rooms.

Ultrawide screens are generally not a good fit with game consoles. If you need to play a PlayStation 5 or Xbox Series console into a display, this is your best bet.

Best OLED: Alienware 34 QD-OLED AW3423DW

Alienware

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Why it made the cut: Alienware made the first QD-OLED gaming monitor, and they put it on a 21:9 display.

Specs

  • Panel type: Quantum Dot OLED
  • Native resolution (aspect ratio): 3440 x 1440 (21:9)
  • Panel style: Curved (1800R)
  • Refresh rate: 175Hz over DisplayPort, 100Hz over HDMI 2.0
  • Response time: 0.1 ms
  • Max brightness: 250 nits (typical) / 1000 nits (max)
  • Ports: 1 x DisplayPort 1.4; 2 x HDMI 2.0; 4 x USB 3.2 Gen1 Type-A; Earphone Jack; Audio line-out
  • Ergonomics: Height, Swivel, Tilt, Slant, VESA 100mm mountable
  • Variable refresh rate: Nvidia G-Sync Ultimate
  • HDR: VESA DisplayHDR True Black 400

Pros

  • OLED display
  • Great HDR support
  • Lots of ports

Cons

  • Burn-in might be a concern

Organic light-emitting diode display technology—OLED, for short—is arguably the king of the gaming television space right now, monitor manufacturers have been slow to bring the panels to the world of PCs. (For an in-depth explainer on why check out our list of the best OLED TVs.) In fact, Alienware just launched the first QD-OLED gaming monitor, the AW3423DW, giving PC gamers the chance to experience the heightened fidelity OLED displays can provide.

With an OLED display, you get perfect contrast thanks to the fact that every pixel is individually-self lit instead of being backlit or edgelit like traditional LED screens. That means pure blacks and vibrant colors, as well as super-fast response time. The Alienware AW3423DW seems to have its specs locked down, ensuring a gaming monitor worthy of the “first OLED” mantle.

While OLED screens are bright and beautiful, there are reasons for PC players to be skeptical. OLED TVs have historically been deeply susceptible to “burn-in,” a visual distortion where pixels become stuck displaying a certain shape after displaying it too long. Since many elements of a PC desktop are static on Windows 11 and macOS, there’s good reason to question whether OLED monitors would have a shorter lifespan than conventional monitors. 

With Alienware launching an OLED screen, though, it seems like burn-in isn’t the worry it once was. One YouTuber attempted to burn an image into the new Nintendo Switch OLED’s screen but only created faint ghosting after 3,600 hours of showing the exact same image. In other words, if you use a screensaver or let your display sleep, you’re almost certainly fine.

Best for Mac: LG 34WQ73A-B

Why it made the cut: The inclusion of a USB-C port makes it a breeze to connect this monitor to a Mac.

Specs

  • Panel type: IPS
  • Native resolution (aspect ratio): 3440 x 1440 (21:9)
  • Panel style: Curved
  • Refresh rate: 60Hz
  • Response time: 5ms
  • Max brightness: 300 nits
  • Ports: 1 x USB-C (90W), 2 x USB-A (2.0), 1 x USB-B, 1 x Ethernet RJ45, 2 x HDMI 2.0, 1 x DisplayPort 1.4, 1 x 3.5mm Audio Out
  • Ergonomics: Height, Swivel, Tilt, Slant, VESA 100mm mountable
  • Variable refresh rate: N/A
  • HDR: HDR 10

Pros

  • USB-C port with video and charging
  • Height and tilt adjustment
  • USB-A ports make this monitor a hub

Cons

  • Non 4K resolution

We know what you’re thinking: Macs aren’t good machines for gaming, but that’s definitely not as true as it once was (have you even seen the Mac Studio specs). The Apple Arcade library and new-to-Mac titles like Resident Evil VII mean the Mac is steadily becoming a more competent platform for casual and AAA games. This is possible because the company’s M-series processors are far more graphically capable than the Intel machines the company shipped over the past five years or so. Unfortunately, one of its other design decisions holds the Mac back when it comes to connecting them to an external display.

Apple went all-in on USB-C with the release of its 12-inch MacBook in 2015, and many of its current-generation laptops can only connect to accessories using this port. This means most Mac owners who want to plug their computer into an external display must buy an adapter. LG’s 34WQ73A-B is a notable exception. This curved monitor has a USB-C port, allowing you to plug your MacBook directly into it using a single cable. The 34WQ73A-B’s USB-C port serves a dual purpose, too: The cable can charge your MacBook at a rate of up to 90W while it’s connected, so this is a true single-cable solution.

LG outfitted this monitor with a pair of HDMI ports, which can plug in a media streamer or game console like a TV. The 34WQ73A-B’s USB-A ports will allow you to connect accessories—think webcam or external hard drive—to your machine without a hub. Gamers who use this external display will appreciate its support for HDR 10 and the ability to display 99% of the sRGB spectrum. Height and tilt adjustment will allow you to position this monitor in a place that’s comfortable for you without the need to attach it to a VESA mount. Its resolution is less than 4K, but that’s true for most ultrawide monitor. What you give up in vertical pixels, you gain in horizontal ones.

The 34WQ73A-B’s USB-C port is the reason we’re recommending this monitor specifically for Mac owners, but it’s also a solid choice for Windows machines. Many PCs have started shipping with USB-C or Thunderbolt 4 ports—they’re the same shape, and the latter can send more data more quickly—which means they’d reap the same benefits with this monitor as Macs. Apple has released its own 5K monitor for the Mac, but the $1,499 Studio Display is nearly five times as expensive as LGs. If you want a relatively inexpensive monitor with Mac-friendly features, this is the one we recommend.

Best budget: Gigabyte M34WQ

GIGABYTE

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Why it made the cut: You won’t find a good ultrawide display cheaper than the Gigabyte M34WQ.

Specs

  • Panel type: IPS
  • Native resolution (aspect ratio): 3440 x 1440 (21:9)
  • Panel style: Flat
  • Color depth: 8-bit
  • Refresh rate: 144Hz
  • Response time: 1 ms
  • Max brightness: 400 nits
  • Ports: 1 x DisplayPort 1.4; 2 x HDMI 2.0; 2x USB 3.0; 1 x USB Type-C
  • Ergonomics: Height, Swivel, Tilt, VESA 100mm mountable
  • Variable refresh rate: Nvidia G-Sync Compatible/AMD FreeSync
  • HDR: VESA HDR 400

Pros

  • Killer price
  • USB Type-C port
  • A bright IPS display

Cons

  • 8-bit color depth
  • Skip the HDR

The Gigabyte M34WQ is the definition of a budget pick: It delivers strong features for just $500 but comes with some technical compromises. The M34WQ offers a solid set of gamer-focused features like a 144Hz refresh rate and compatibility with both G-Sync and FreeSync. 

The cost of that low price is color depth. Most displays on this list feature 10-bit color, translating to over 1 billion colors. This is an 8-bit display with just 16.7 million. It’ll still look good, but you’re more likely to see color banding in some images. And don’t bother turning on the HDR. All that said, curved ultrawide gaming monitors don’t come cheap. You will be hard-pressed to find a better option at this price.

Things to consider before buying an ultrawide gaming monitor

There are a few things to remember as you pick out an ultrawide gaming monitor. Ultrawide displays, by definition, come in different aspect ratios than your average 16:9 widescreen monitor. Movies will feature black bars on the sides. Many apps, including games, will also if they don’t specifically support your screen size. Even when using apps that should work, ultrawide monitors require more tinkering than your average display. If the benefits still appeal, these are some things you should think about as you compare ultrawides.

Aspect ratio

Until the last couple of years, it was just a given that you’d want a standard widescreen display with a 16:9 aspect ratio. But now there are more options. In addition to 16:9, you’ll see lots of 21:9 (ultrawide) and a few 32:9 displays (super ultrawide) displays. Super ultrawide displays tend to be more expensive than ultrawide displays, and there are no cheap options: The prices start at $800 and go up rapidly. What you go with here comes down primarily to personal preference and budget. If you plan to game on this monitor, chances are that if your game supports 21:9, it will support 32:9 as well. 

With that said, many apps and services do not support ultrawide displays. There are a lot of advantages to ultrawide, but that 33% increase in screen space also means that 33% of your screen will be black bars when watching Netflix fullscreen. Most games support 21:9 and 32:9, but it isn’t universal. They’ll still look fine, you’ll just see those black bars again.

Do you want a curved display?

Many people go for an ultrawide monitor rather than two screens that you can position independently because they specifically want a curved monitor. A curved display can enhance the immersion of your games, making it feel like the game world is surrounding you. Our faces, it turns out, aren’t flat … nor are our eyes. According to monitor manufacturer ViewSonic, curved monitors can actually reduce distortion by making the entire display the same distance from our eyes, and this is especially the case with ultrawide screens, which put the edges of the screen even further from our faces. The curve also makes these screens more comfortable for our eyes, ViewSonic said. In reducing distortion, they also reduce the amount of time spent dealing with distortion and with moving our heads and eyes to the corners of the screen. 

With that said, curved screens are a bit of an acquired taste. They require more work to set up and optimize for individual games and software. They may also be more susceptible to glare than flat panels. The impact of both the upsides and the downsides comes down to personal taste. If you can, we recommend popping into your local electronics retailer and checking out a couple of curved monitors for yourself before making a decision.

Finding the right curve

If you decide to go with a curved display, you’ll need to think about how deep a curve you actually want. Some curved monitors bend lightly, giving you only the slightest sense that the screen forms around you. Others have a deep curve that makes you feel like you’re sitting in a cockpit. A monitor’s curve is measured by the radius of the monitor (R). 

It may be counterintuitive for those who’ve forgotten high school geometry, but a lower radius indicates a more pronounced curve. The Samsung Odyssey Neo G9, for example, sports a 1000R curve, making it one of the most deeply curved screens. Most ultrawide monitors sport a curvature of 1500-1800R, but very lightly curved displays reach as high as 3000R.

The radius of the monitor also indicates the recommended viewing distance, or how far away you should sit from it for the ideal viewing experience. Viewing position is especially important for curved displays, as sitting at the right distance, in front of the center of the display, guarantees that you see the full effect of the curve.

Brightness, color depth, and HDR

Beyond curve-related considerations, there’s a range of specs to consider when picking any gaming monitor. Picking among ultrawide gaming monitors limits your options for many display considerations, making them a secondary concern. That said, it never hurts to check and compare.

Gaming monitors are made with three different types of LCD panels—Vertical Alignment (VA), In-Plane Switching (IPS), and Twisted Nematic (TN). When shopping for ultrawide displays, you’ll typically find IPS or VA panels. IPS panels offer brighter, more vibrant colors, while VA panels typically have better contrast. Both panel types have great refresh rates. If there are any TN panels on Ultrawide screens, we didn’t find them during our research. Those panels have the fastest refresh rates but have poor viewing angles and color reproduction, making them ill-suited to this particular task.

Brightness is also a major concern; look for something at least 300 nits(cd/m2) for peak brightness. Any lower and you may struggle in particularly dark scenes of games. High-Dynamic Range, or HDR, isn’t widely implemented on ultrawide gaming monitors. Fewer than one-third of the ultrawide monitors on Newegg feature HDR support. On top of that, HDR isn’t always implemented as well as it is in TVs. Regardless of screen size, Windows isn’t as good at knowing when to switch between HDR and SDR. As a result, HDR is a nice luxury, but shouldn’t make or break your monitor selection.

For more in-depth explanations of monitor specs, including brightness, HDR, panel type, and more, check out the things to consider in our rundown of the best cheap gaming monitors.

Use case

Even when buying “gaming” gear, not many people use our PCs just for one thing. Are you going to use this computer for gaming primarily, or will you also be using it for work? If your monitor will just serve up games and the web, you can focus purely on refresh rate and gaming-focused features. If you’re creating content or using it for office work, you should also consider technical elements, such as color accuracy or blue light reduction. In general, it pays to take a holistic approach to picking out gear rather than focusing on one specific use, even if that use is more fun.

FAQs

Q: Are ultrawide monitors good for gaming?

Ultrawide monitors can be great for gaming, especially curved displays. A curved display will fill your field of vision more completely and, in theory, requires less head movement to view completely.

Q: Do 4K ultrawide monitors exist?

Not really. The term 4K refers to a specific resolution, 3840×2160, which you can only create with 16:9 displays. Thus, 4K and Ultrawide are two separate categories of display that can’t really meet. There are a few 2160p Ultra widescreen displays, but they have a wider resolution of 5120, so they don’t count as 4K. That said, you could display a 4K image on that screen without distortion.

Q: Is a 34-inch ultrawide monitor big enough?

Definitely. Most displays on this list measure 34 inches, and the only one bigger is classified as a Super Ultrawide. If you’re buying an ultrawide monitor, it’ll likely be 34 inches.

Q: How much does an ultrawide monitor cost?

This will depend on its features, but many ultrawide monitors cost under $500.

Q: Is it better to have two monitors or one ultrawide?

A two-monitor setup is more efficient for creative workflows—photo or video editing, writing, and general computing tasks—as it’ll allow you to dedicate an entire separate screen to chat or e-mail apps that need to be monitored while you’re working. Gaming is a single-screen activity, so a single ultrawide monitor makes more sense.

Q: What is the best size for an ultrawide monitor?

Most ultrawide monitors are between 32 and 34 inches in size, which are well-suited for gaming. A larger monitor will be more difficult to see.

Q: Does ultrawide affect FPS?

No, the graphics card and processor in your computer and the games you play will have the biggest impact on your game’s performance. That said, the monitor’s refresh rate is also a big factor: A 60Hz display won’t be able to play cutting-edge games at their full speed.

Final thoughts on the best ultrawide gaming monitors

If you have the cash, an ultrawide gaming monitor can be a great way to expand your desktop without using two displays. The options run the gamut from affordable daily drivers to premium monsters. The Samsung Odyssey Neo G9 and Alienware QD-OLED are especially appealing options if you want to spend whatever it takes to get the best. For everyone else, our top and budget picks give you most of the same benefits, albeit with less impressive color space. Any of these options should make most any gamer a happy camper.

Why trust us

Popular Science started writing about technology more than 150 years ago. There was no such thing as “gadget writing” when we published our first issue in 1872, but if there was, our mission to demystify the world of innovation for everyday readers means we would have been all over it. Here in the present, PopSci is fully committed to helping readers navigate the increasingly intimidating array of devices on the market right now.

Our writers and editors have combined decades of experience covering and reviewing consumer electronics. We each have our own obsessive specialties—from high-end audio to video games to cameras and beyond—but when we’re reviewing devices outside of our immediate wheelhouses, we do our best to seek out trustworthy voices and opinions to help guide people to the very best recommendations. We know we don’t know everything, but we’re excited to live through the analysis paralysis that internet shopping can spur so readers don’t have to.

The post The best ultrawide gaming monitors in 2023 appeared first on Popular Science.

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Control your Xbox by using your voice https://www.popsci.com/diy/voice-command-xbox/ Fri, 14 Apr 2023 16:00:00 +0000 https://www.popsci.com/?p=533991
An Xbox One S with a controller sitting on a white table.
Louis-Philippe Poitras / Unsplash

Don't stop your gameplay and control your Xbox with your voice instead.

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An Xbox One S with a controller sitting on a white table.
Louis-Philippe Poitras / Unsplash

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You can go the traditional way of controlling your Xbox by using a gamepad or a mouse and keyboard. But you can also use your voice—just speak out the correct commands to easily open up menus and launch apps.

Voice control is managed through either Amazon’s Alexa (available for Android and iOS) or the Google Assistant (available for Android and iOS), so you’ll need to pick one and get the appropriate app installed on your phone.

Setting up your Xbox for voice control

If you have a Microsoft console launched at any point since 2013 (the list includes the Xbox One, the Xbox One S, the Xbox Series X, and the Xbox Series S), you’ll be able to set it up to react to voice commands.  

From the front page of the Xbox interface, pick Settings, go to Devices & connections, and then Digital assistants. Check the box marked Enable digital assistants and you’ll be ready to turn your attention to the Alexa or Google Home apps. Keep in mind that if you regularly use both platforms, there’s no need for you to pick only one, as you can use them in tandem if you want to.

[Related: Xbox Series X vs. PS5: How to pick between the two biggest new game consoles]

If you’re using Alexa, open the app and choose More and Skills & Games. Search for the Xbox skill and when you find it pick Enable to use. Amazon’s assistant will ask you to log into your Microsoft account to give it permission to interact with your console.

If you’re using the Google Assistant through the Google Home app, tap the + (plus) button in the top left corner, then choose Set up device and Works with Google. Search for and select the Xbox option, then link your Microsoft account.

Bear in mind that you won’t be directing your voice commands to your Xbox: You’ll be speaking to Alexa or the Google Assistant, and they will control the console based on your instructions. You can use your phone for this or, if you have one, you can also use another connected device like a smart speaker, as long as it’s connected to the same Amazon or Google account as the app on your phone.

There’s a nice bonus if you use the Google Assistant: Open the Google Home app, pick Xbox from the front page, and you’ll get an Xbox remote control on screen. You can use it to navigate around menus, adjust the volume, and turn the console on and off.

Using voice commands on your Xbox

The trigger words for your voice commands will depend on the digital assistant you’re using: it will either be “Alexa…” or “Hey, Google…”, followed by your instructions. You’re also going to need to include “Xbox” somewhere in there so the digital assistant knows what you’re referring to.

The simplest commands you can use are “turn Xbox on” or “turn Xbox off”. The only caveat is that for the former to work, your console needs to be in Sleep rather than Shutdown mode—you can set this up by going to General and Power options in Settings.

You can save yourself some time by using voice commands to launch games and apps as well. Just say “open [app or game] on Xbox” to have it come up on screen. Games with longer titles can be a bit of a mouthful, but Alexa and the Google Assistant are usually pretty good at understanding what you mean.

[Related: The best Xbox One controllers of 2023]

Another area where voice control can be really useful is in taking screenshots and capturing videos of gameplay. Just say “tell Xbox to take a screenshot” or “tell Xbox to record that” to launch the capturing features. You can also start and stop a live stream using your voice by saying “tell Xbox to start broadcasting” or “tell Xbox to stop broadcasting”.

When you’re not gaming, you can also use Alexa and the Google Assistant to control media playback. Say “pause Xbox” or “play Xbox” while watching movies or videos on streaming apps such as Netflix or YouTube. You can also control the volume with the commands “volume up on Xbox” or “volume down on Xbox”.

It’s also possible to see which of your friends are online, send messages, and set your online status. The only problem here is that the supported commands aren’t all the same on Alexa and the Google Assistant. For a full list of everything you can do on an Xbox with both digital assistants, check out Microsoft’s official command list.

The post Control your Xbox by using your voice appeared first on Popular Science.

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The best 3D printers of 2023 https://www.popsci.com/reviews/best-3d-printer/ Sat, 31 Jul 2021 19:00:00 +0000 https://www.popsci.com/?p=385435
The best 3D printer is available for the beginner and the pro.
Xiaole Tao, Unsplash

3D printing has come a long way from its clumsy infancy. Today the best models are great for hobbyists, professionals, and everyone in between.

The post The best 3D printers of 2023 appeared first on Popular Science.

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The best 3D printer is available for the beginner and the pro.
Xiaole Tao, Unsplash

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Best overall The Dremel 3D45 is the best home 3D printer. Dremel 3D45
SEE IT

This professional caliber 3D printer is still easy to use. 

Best for kids Toybox is the best 3D printer for kids. Toybox
SEE IT

Let your kids design their own toys.

Best professional The Creality Ender 3 Pro is the best professional printer. Creality Ender 3 Pro
SEE IT

This open-source, professional printer is surprisingly affordable.

The 3D printer, when it first arrived, seemed right out of the future: you can create anything at all, crafted of a steady stream of plastic. Lost a chess piece? Print a new one. Need an adapter for the sink? Print one. The possibilities are endless. But sometimes, the choice of which model to buy can also feel endless. Here’s how to find one of the best 3D printers for you.

How we chose the best 3D printers

In coming up with our list of recommendations, we considered models from the leading makers of 3D printers. We looked for options that fit a range of circumstances, from beginners to pros. Ease of assembly, versatility, build volume, and price also figured into compiling our list of the best 3D printers.

The best 3D printers: Reviews & Recommendations

Best overall: Dremel 3D45

Dremel

SEE IT

Why it made the cut: This award-winning 3D printer works with a range of materials and is a favorite of architects, engineers, and beginners alike.

Specs

  • Build volume: 6.7 x 10 x 6 inches
  • Weight: 42.8 pounds
  • Compatible materials: Nylon, ECO-ABS, PETG, PLA

Pros

  • Designed for commercial use
  • Comes with intuitive touchscreen
  • Has built in HD camera that allows for remote printing

Cons

  • Expensive

Dremel’s 3D45 printer is at the top of the heap for home 3D printers. It’s right on the line between a home 3D printer and a professional printer, but what allows it to claim this title as the best home 3D printer is its impressive software and ease of use. It relies on a version of the open-source Cura software, with a nice big touchscreen, which makes it surprisingly simple for beginners, given the extremely high print quality.

Best for kids: Toybox

Toybox

SEE IT

Why it made the cut: This easy-to-use 3D printer comes with a catalog of more than 1,000 toys for kids to create.

Specs

  • Build volume: 7 x 8 x 9 centimeters (2.7 x 3.1 x 3.5 inches)
  • Weight: 6.6 pounds
  • Compatible materials: PLA plastic

Pros

  • Easy to use
  • New toys added to catalog every day
  • Uses non-toxic and compostable PLA

Cons

  • Expensive
  • Smaller build space

Depending on age and experience, kids and teens may prefer a typical, “adult-centric” 3D printer. But the Toybox is designed for younger kids, with lots of safety options (like non-toxic materials) and a super easy-to-use app for selecting and printing all kinds of fun toys.

Best small: FlashForge Finder 3

FlashForge

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Why it made the cut: This compact printer is easy to assemble, quiet, and has good build volume for its size.

Specs

  • Build volume: 190×195×200 millimeters
  • Weight: 34.39 pounds
  • Compatible materials: PLA, ABS, HIPS, PETG, PETG PRO, TPU

Pros

  • Can use right out of the box
  • Glass platform is removable 
  • Quiet and small

Cons

  • Only works with Linux

The FlashForge Finder 3 is a well-priced, diminutive 3D printer, but it doesn’t skimp on the features. It has a leveling system that guides you through the oft-annoying process of making sure the built platform is aligned properly. Plus, the build plate slides right out, which makes removing your printed object much easier. It also boasts a touchscreen for easy operation, and the build platform is designed to be cold, for safety reasons.

Best professional: Creality Ender 3 Pro

Comgrow

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Why it made the cut: This high-end printer is an upgrade from the last model, with an aluminum extruder for stability and a magnetic printing surface that allows users to remove models more easily.

Specs

  • Build volume: 8.66 x 8.66 x 9.84 inches
  • Weight: 2.2 pounds
  • Compatible materials: PLA, ETG, ABS

Pros

  • Comes semi-assembled
  • Magnetic printing bed that allows for easy product removal
  • Aluminum extruder proves extra stability.

Cons

  • Not designed for beginners
  • Yes

The Creality Ender 3 Pro is known for its high-quality prints, and the company does a great job of leading owners through the assembly process. It’s fully open-source, and there are lots of options for upgrading individual parts later, which makes it a great base for learning about 3D printing. It’s also surprisingly affordable! It isn’t the easiest 3D printer to use, but if you’re building a printer yourself, that’s likely okay with you.

Best budget: Monoprice Mini Delta V2

Monoprice

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Why it made the cut: This affordable printer comes fully assembled.

Specs

  • Build volume: 110 x 120 millimeters
  • Weight: 2.2 pounds
  • Compatible materials: PLA, PLS+, ABS

Pros

  • Easy to use
  • Small footprint
  • Affordable

Cons

  • Small build volume

As far as affordable 3D printers go, we love the Monoprice Mini Delta V2. It’s insanely cheap but includes a touchscreen, wireless printing, solid build quality, and it’s even compatible with open-source tools like Cura.

What to consider when purchasing a 3D printer

Today’s offerings, the best 3D printers, are generally designed for two markets: home and office. Home 3D printers tend to be more affordable—lately, some of the best beginner 3D printers have been getting down under $300, which is a far cry from the thousands they used to cost. These are great for toying around with, teaching yourself (or your kids) modeling software, and seeing what kinds of crazy stuff you can create out of seemingly thin air.

Professional 3D printers are much more expensive but show the full capability of this moment in time in the 3D-printing world. Architects can quickly build out perfect scale models. Manufacturers can skip the entire go-to-the-factory tour and spit out a prototype in minutes. 

Luckily, some of the best home printers are also some of the least expensive 3D printers. After all, the needs of a home user are not quite as particular as a professional in an engineering lab. That doesn’t mean you’ll be skimping on features, though; these 3D printers, no matter how affordable, can do some truly amazing stuff.

Some of the professional 3D printers require some experience with CAD design—yes, we know, the “D” stands for design already—software, which can feel overwhelming for newbies. But there are plenty of machines that are beginner-friendly, enabling you to download designs and print them right out.

Setup

The best home 3D printers—meaning, not a professional system designed for businesses—are typically smaller, ideally a bit cheaper, and hopefully, come pre-assembled. Home 3D printers should be able to connect via a simple USB cable to your computer, although WiFi connectivity is a nice option to reduce the amount of cord clutter around your home. 

You’ll also want to look at print resolution. This metric is measured in microns, and the smaller the number is, the sharper the image. You can think about it like you’re building out of LEGO blocks: if you only use a few larger blocks, you’ll have a very blocky, rough sculpture. But use a lot of smaller blocks, and you can create more natural-looking curves and shapes. For a home 3D printer, look for around 50 microns in resolution.

Assembly

Many 3D printers, including the Prusa i3, come in two versions: one is pre-assembled, and one, for a discounted price, requires assembly by yourself. In general, we don’t love the assembly-required versions, as they can be very finicky and tricky to put together. This isn’t quite an Ikea couch; these gadgets are complex, and any errors in construction can totally mess up your final prints. 

Once you go down into the less expensive units, you often won’t find any assembly-required options at all. These are more grab-and-go printers, designed for ease of use, and frankly, we like that. Especially because using these printers as an educational toy for kids is one of their best attributes, and the assembly is often too difficult for them. Instead, grab a kid-friendly, pre-assembled unit.

Size

3D printers can vary in size from a small shoebox to, well, literally house-sized. The smaller 3D printers are often a great option for those with a limited amount of desk space, or perhaps for those with no need to print anything all too large. 

Price

Given that many 3D printers can cost thousands of dollars, you’d be forgiven for looking at a less expensive printer with some suspicion. You’ll definitely be sacrificing something, but the nice thing about cheap 3D printers is that you can choose what you want to give up. Are you okay with a slightly lesser printing resolution? Or would you rather sacrifice how large the printed objects can be? Or do you want to build the printer yourself, opting for more barebones kits to save some cash? All of those are possibilities.

Kits

If you really want to get in the weeds, and we’d understand if you do, a 3D-printer kit is a great way to both save some money and to really start to understand the intricacies of how these machines work—because you’ll have to build them. 

It’ll take you a few hours to put these kits together, but there are tons of helpful tutorials on YouTube, and you’ll get the same kind of satisfaction that you might get from working on a car. If something goes wrong, you’ll know what, because you constructed the entire project. And the rewards for creating something that then creates something else? It’s fun wrapped in a riddle.

FAQs

Q: How much does a decent 3D printer cost?

You’d be surprised at how little a decent 3D printer costs these days. Today, you can find really fun, easy-to-use printers, often with formerly high-end features like touchscreens and WiFi connections, for under $500—sometimes even half that. 

Q: Is getting a 3D printer worth it?

Whether a 3D printer is worth it depends on your use case. They’re great educational tools, and can be really fun toys, too: it never gets old to download some plans and then have them manifest as a physical object, right there at home. They aren’t necessarily practical for home use, in that you’re not going to be printing too many high-end sculptures or tools, but if you know that going in, you can really enjoy yourself.

Q: Which is the best 3D printer to buy?

The best 3D printer to buy will vary from person to person, depending on what you’re looking for. If you’re just curious about the tech and want to mess around with some gadgetry, we like Monoprice’s offerings for their combination of budget price and great features. If you’re really getting into it, the Dremel 3D45 offers some of the best print quality on the market.

The final word on the best 3D printers

The best 3D printers—whether they’re home printers, 3D printers for kids, detail-oriented kits, or even budget-friendly options—can be a truly mind-blowing home gadget. It’s incredibly satisfying to watch these machines spool plastic with such precision, creating something that you want seemingly out of thin air.

Why trust us

Popular Science started writing about technology more than 150 years ago. There was no such thing as “gadget writing” when we published our first issue in 1872, but if there was, our mission to demystify the world of innovation for everyday readers means we would have been all over it. Here in the present, PopSci is fully committed to helping readers navigate the increasingly intimidating array of devices on the market right now.

Our writers and editors have combined decades of experience covering and reviewing consumer electronics. We each have our own obsessive specialties—from high-end audio to video games to cameras and beyond—but when we’re reviewing devices outside of our immediate wheelhouses, we do our best to seek out trustworthy voices and opinions to help guide people to the very best recommendations. We know we don’t know everything, but we’re excited to live through the analysis paralysis that internet shopping can spur so readers don’t have to.

The post The best 3D printers of 2023 appeared first on Popular Science.

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Save $90 on Creality’s open-source 3D printer today at Amazon https://www.popsci.com/gear/creality-ender-3d-printer-amazon-deal/ Mon, 10 Apr 2023 13:55:00 +0000 https://www.popsci.com/?p=532976
Amazon Creality Ender 3 deal
Stan Horaczek

The Creality Ender 3 is a quick, versatile, and easy-to-assemble 3D printer.

The post Save $90 on Creality’s open-source 3D printer today at Amazon appeared first on Popular Science.

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Amazon Creality Ender 3 deal
Stan Horaczek

We may earn revenue from the products available on this page and participate in affiliate programs. Learn more ›

3D printing can be intimidating. The learning curve seems relatively steep, and every failed print costs you money in the form of wasted filament and holes punched in your walls out of frustration. Once you get the hang of it, though, creating objects out of data is addicting. Before you know it, you’ll be churning out fun, useful, and really weird objects with ease. Today, Amazon has the Creality Ender 3 3D printer on sale for just $179, the lowest price we’ve seen since Black Friday.

Creality Ender 3 3D Printer $179 (Was $269)

Creality

SEE IT

The Creality Ender 3 is a filament-based 3D printer, which means it pulls plastic (of various varieties) off spools and extrudes it through a print head in precise patterns. This printer is large enough to print objects that measure 8.66″ x 8.66″ x 9.84″. That’s plenty of room for gaming miniatures or whatever other nerdy things you can think of.

We particularly like this model because it’s relatively simple to operate but runs on open-source software. So, you can quickly get up and running with your prints or dig into the code and make things as complex as you want. It even includes some very handy features, like a resume print option that allows it to pick up where it left off in case of a power outage or some other interruption.

Perhaps the best part is that the whole thing assembles with roughly 20 nuts in a process that takes less than two hours. Assembling 3D printers can feel like an engineering project all its own, but this one makes it as simple as possible.

More 3D printer deals

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7 things to know about Amazon’s new gaming service, Luna https://www.popsci.com/diy/amazon-luna-tips/ Fri, 07 Apr 2023 16:00:00 +0000 https://www.popsci.com/?p=532428
Amazon Luna controller hovering in front of a purple background.
You don't need a Luna controller to get the most out of the service—but you should still consider it. Amazon

Smoother graphics and phone controls can help you get more from Amazon Luna.

The post 7 things to know about Amazon’s new gaming service, Luna appeared first on Popular Science.

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Amazon Luna controller hovering in front of a purple background.
You don't need a Luna controller to get the most out of the service—but you should still consider it. Amazon

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Amazon Luna finally came out of beta to be widely available in March 2022, immediately impressing users and reviewers. Like competitors such as Xbox Cloud Gaming and Nvidia GeForce Now, the platform streams games straight to your TV, laptop, or phone—think Netflix, but for video games.

To get access to Amazon Luna, you either need to be a Prime subscriber—which gets you a limited number of free games per month—or sign up for one of the specific Luna subscription plans starting at $10 a month. 

1. Amazon’s Fire TV stick is the easiest way to game on a big screen

Amazon Luna streams straight to browsers on phones, tablets, and computers, but the easiest way to get Luna on your big-screen television is with a Fire TV stick. But before you get one, make sure to check if your set is on the list of compatible devices. If you already have Amazon’s TV dongle, just install the Luna app and you’re ready to go. 

[Related: Sign up (and save money) on Amazon’s new Luna game streaming service]

If your TV has a game mode, Amazon recommends turning it on for the best experience. The location of this setting depends on the make and model of your TV, so you’ll have to dig in a bit. If you still can’t find it, we recommend searching for the user manual online.

You’ll also need to connect a compatible controller to enjoy Luna. You can use the official gadget (you can get it bundled up with a Fire TV stick) or one from your Xbox or PlayStation. But those are not your only options.

2. You can optimize your connection on Amazon Luna

For a smooth Luna experience at a 1080p resolution, Amazon recommends an internet speed of at least 10 Mbps. You can optimize your connection and try to hit this target by turning off VPNs and using a wired internet connection where possible.

If you’re seeing buffering and lag, you can scale down the resolution of Luna games to 720p, which uses a more modest 5 Mbps. To do this, on the home page of Luna on the web or in the desktop app, click Settings then Audio & video quality to make the change.

3. You can use your phone as a controller on Amazon Luna

Controller scheme of the Luna controller on a phone screen.
With the Amazon Luna app you can use your phone screen as a controller. Amazon

Whichever device you’re using with Amazon’s gaming service, you can control it using the Luna Controller app (available for Android and iOS). Your handheld device will provide you with a full set of virtual controls to work with, including a d-pad and trigger buttons.

As long as you are signed into the same Amazon account on your phone and on whatever device you’re streaming Luna to, the devices should connect automatically, even if you’re not on the same Wi-Fi network.

You can also use the Luna Controller app to have guests join in your gameplay using their own phones—this is extremely useful if you’re playing a multiplayer title. The only drawback is that they’ll need to sign into the app using your Amazon credentials.

4. You can invite more players with Luna Couch

Luna Couch is one of the more interesting features Amazon’s game streaming service has to offer: it lets you play with friends or family members across the internet with the minimum hassle. Your fellow players don’t need a Luna subscription, but they’ll need an Amazon account to join in. 

From the Luna interface, select Couch on the left and pick a game. Once in it, open the Luna menu—Tab+Shift on a keyboard or the Luna (or Xbox or PlayStation) button on your controller—and pick Start Luna Couch Session.

The platform will give you a code that you can share with other people. All players need to do is head over to the Luna Couch website and enter that code.

5. You can optimize your gameplay by tweaking your device settings

Amazon offers specific advice for certain devices and platforms to help you get the best Luna experience possible. If you’re gaming in the Google Chrome browser, make sure to switch on hardware acceleration—this means the browser will use your computer’s full graphics capabilities.

To access this feature, type “chrome://settings/?search=hardware” into the Chrome address bar and hit Enter. The Use hardware acceleration when available toggle switch should be set to on.

For some unspecified reason, having location services enabled on Fire tablets and macOS can cause performance issues on Luna. You can turn this setting off on Fire tablets by picking Location-based Services from the Settings menu. On macOS, go to System Settings and then choose Privacy & Security and Location Services.

6. Amazon Luna can seamlessly broadcast games to Twitch 

As you might expect, Luna works very well with Twitch, seeing as they’re both run by Amazon. If you’ve never tried live streaming your gaming exploits before, using Luna with Twitch is a great way to start.

From Luna’s web or desktop app, choose Broadcast and Connect with Twitch to get started. You’ll need to sign in or create a Twitch account, then follow the instructions on screen.

You’ll be able to manage your stream from a separate window that will pop up. It includes controls to allow you to share (or not) your audio and webcam feeds, and stop or pause the broadcast at any time.

7. You should think about investing in a Luna controller

As we mentioned, you don’t need an official Luna Controller to use Amazon’s game streaming service: an Xbox or PlayStation controller or your phone will do just fine. You can even use the mouse and keyboard on a computer if you don’t care much for console gaming.

[Related: The best Xbox One controllers of 2023]

However, there are reasons to splash $70 on Amazon’s own gamepad: It’s designed specifically for cloud gaming and has its own direct Wi-Fi connection, so you can easily switch between Luna games on multiple devices.

Its Bluetooth and USB support give the Luna controller versatility, and as you’d expect, it also comes with Amazon Alexa on board. If you’re going to get serious about your Luna gaming, then it’s worth picking up.

The post 7 things to know about Amazon’s new gaming service, Luna appeared first on Popular Science.

Articles may contain affiliate links which enable us to share in the revenue of any purchases made.

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The best multiplayer Switch games in 2023 https://www.popsci.com/reviews/best-multiplayer-switch-games/ Thu, 10 Mar 2022 14:01:17 +0000 https://www.popsci.com/?p=428563
Mario Party Superstars
Brandt Ranj / Popular Science

The Nintendo Switch is an excellent multiplayer system and these are the best co-op and competitive games in its library.

The post The best multiplayer Switch games in 2023 appeared first on Popular Science.

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Mario Party Superstars
Brandt Ranj / Popular Science

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Best local Best Multiplayer Switch Games Mario Party Superstars
SEE IT

Casual and competitive, Mario Party Superstars is an easy way to make a low-key game night with friends feel like a raucous good time.

Best online co-op Best Multiplayer Switch Games Super Mario 3D World + Bowser’s Fury
SEE IT

Super Mario 3D World brings back a forgotten co-op gem from the Wii U.

Best fighting game Best Multiplayer Switch Games Super Smash Bros. Ultimate
SEE IT

Easy to pick up and hard to master, Super Smash Bros. Ultimate is the epitome of a great fighting game.

The Nintendo Switch is a great console for playing games with friends and family. However, quickly browsing the Switch’s digital store can turn the act of picking out a new game to play with friends into a daunting task. If you’re struggling to find something new for game night on Switch, we’ve rounded up a list of multiplayer games that you can pick up right now, matter your tastes. Our list of the best multiplayer Switch games has something for everyone—whether you want a chill couch co-op game to play with friends, or you’re a hardcore player looking for your next online RPG or shooter fix—plus tips for buyers who want to make sure they’re buying the right game for them and their co-op partners.

How we picked the best multiplayer Switch games

As a reporter covering games for Gamespot, Digital Trends, and other gaming enthusiast outlets—as well as an avid Nintendo Switch player—I’ve played a wide variety of multiplayer Switch games. Our current picks reflect my extensive hands-on experience with the Switch, both personal and professional, and the tastes of my colleagues and other professional reviewers. These games have robust multiplayer modes in their respective categories, active online communities, and receive updates from their developers with new content, seasonal events, and/or technical patches to maintain gameplay systems and online stability. In short, we picked these games because we’ve played them a lot and really like them.

The best multiplayer Switch games: Reviews & Recommendations

Finding your next Nintendo Switch multiplayer game should always be an exciting time, but we understand if picking the right game for your friends and family can feel a bit stressful. If you’d like some concrete recommendations, our list is full of different kinds of games that should be great for all kinds of gamers, whether you’re playing with one friend or a big group, in person or online. These are among the best games on Switch—multiplayer or otherwise—and there’s something here for everyone, from die-hard action RPG and fighting game fans to casual players that prefer puzzles and party games.

Best local multiplayer: Mario Party Superstars

Nintendo

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Why it made the cut: Mario Party Superstars is the perfect casual game to play during a night in with some friends or when you’re hosting a family-friendly event and need something everyone can play together. 

Specs 

  • Genre: Board game/mini-game collection
  • Number of Players: 1-4 Players (Online and offline)
  • Age Rating: E (Everyone)
  • NSO requirement: Yes (For online play)

Pros

  • Simple rules and controls
  • Family-friendly gameplay featuring popular Super Mario characters
  • Dice rolls and other random events keep gameplay fair
  • Variable match lengths and rulesets

Cons

  • Some players may find the randomness unfair
  • Nothing new for longtime fans

Based on Nintendo’s favorite franchise, Mario Party Superstars is a light and breezy collection of minigames played as part of a digital board game. This title features classic Nintendo characters like Mario, Luigi, and Princess Peach, plus lesser-known ones like Princess Daisy. After selecting a character, stage, and number of turns, each player rolls a die to determine the order of play.

Each turn consists of players rolling a die in the hopes of reaching a space with a star, which can be purchased with 20 coins. Coins are earned by playing a minigame at the end of each turn, or landing on a blue space on the virtual game board. The board is littered with other spaces, which include item shops, Bowser spots, and “!” squares, which liven up gameplay.

The quick, easy-to-learn minigames do impact your performance in the board game, but Mario Party also injects a fair (or unfair, depending on who’s asking) degree of random boosts and penalties that keep everyone on their toes for the whole game.

We prefer playing Mario Party Superstars with others in person—the trash talk and antics are just more fun when you’re sitting next to everyone on the couch—but its online infrastructure is among the best on the Switch, so it’s also a great game to play online if you’re understandably avoiding social events right now. 

Best online co-op: Super Mario 3D World + Bowser’s Fury

Nintendo

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Why it made the cut: Mario’s latest adventure features two unique gameplay modes, masterful level design, and some of the best online co-op platforming you’ll find on any console. 

Specs

  • Genre: 3D platformer
  • Number of players: 1-4 players online or locally
  • Rating: E for Everyone
  • NSO requirement: Yes

Pros

  • The best version of Super Mario 3D World
  • Smart levels designed for solo or co-op play
  • All-new Bowser’s Fury mode is excellent

Cons

  • Later 3D World levels can be difficult for novice players.
  • Bowser’s Fury mode has limited multiplayer options

Super Mario 3D World + Bowser’s Fury is one of those rare games that can appeal to just about anyone. This double feature pairs a revamped port of the Wii U’s Super Mario 3D World with an all-new mini-campaign, Bowser’s Fury. Both games feature multiplayer components, but Super Mario 3D World seamlessly weaves crowd-pleasing co-op into the core experience.

In Super Mario 3D World, players can control one of four iconic characters—including Mario, Luigi, Princess Peach, and Toad—and set out on an adventure across dozens of unique levels, each with its own unique gameplay twist. The level variety keeps things fresh, while the challenging (but never brutally difficult) layouts keep you and your friends on your toes. The 3D World part of this package is basically a traditional Super Mario game, where the object is to run through levels while traversing obstacles like pits and lava while defeating classic enemies like goombas and koopas. Anyone familiar with Super Mario games—going back to the original Super Mario Bros. will be familiar with this format, though Nintendo has refined the series’ mechanics over the decades.

Bowser’s Fury, on the other hand, is the first truly “open world” experience this franchise has ever seen. The main player controls Mario as he navigates between different islands completing challenges to earn Cat Coins and Cat Shines, items required to turn the pint-sized plumber into a gargantuan Cat Mario, which allows him to take on a gargantuan Bowser who’s seemingly lost his mind. The second player can control Bowser Jr., who begrudgingly befriends Mario for this adventure to restore his father to his senses. Bowser Jr. flies around in a flying machine and can whack enemies with his paintbrush, and while this second player slot is perfect for younger players, adults will find a lot to like about it too. It’s a lot easier to navigate through tough challenges as a team rather than going at them alone.

Our only complaint about Bowser’s Fury is that it’s too short, clocking in at around three to four hours for experienced players. Still, it’s a fun adventure suitable for players of all ages and is hopefully a harbinger for things to come in the franchise’s future.

Best indie: Overcooked: All You Can Eat Edition 

Team17

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Why it made the cut: Overcooked’s cute and cartoony exterior belies the fast-paced puzzle game hidden within. This co-op cooking game tests your gaming skills as much as your communication skills.

Specs

  • Genre: Puzzle/Action game
  • Number of players: 1-4 (local or online)
  • Rating: E for Everyone
  • NSO requirement: Yes

Pros

  • Simple controls and gameplay mechanics
  • Novel puzzle design emphasizing cooperation and communication
  • Family-friendly art style and setting

Cons

  • Challenging to play online without chat

Overcooked takes the fast-paced excitement of running a restaurant kitchen and turns it into a hectic co-op puzzle game. A team of 2-4 players prepares and cooks various dishes in kitchens with all kinds of outlandish obstacles: You’ll sling burgers in underground mines riddled with pitfalls, roll sushi on a floating raft, and whip up pancakes on alien planets. Some levels have players leaping between platforms to reach different parts of the kitchen, throwing ingredients to teammates from across the screen, or warping between workstations, all while orders and dishes pile up. Overcooked: All You Can Edition combines the levels from Overcooked and Overcooked 2, adds cross-platform online play, and more.

The gameplay can get hectic, but it’s simple enough that players of any skill level can quickly grok the controls and rise to meet each level’s new challenges. The game supports online and local co-op and competitive modes. It’s definitely a local-first experience, though, especially on Switch. Constant communication between teammates is crucial, so online cooking crews should plan on using Discord or another third-party chat service.

Best online RPG: Monster Hunter Rise

Capcom

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Why it made the cut: Few games match the high of hunting ferocious creatures with your friends in Monster Hunter, and Monster Hunter Rise brings some of the best hunting to Switch.

Specs 

  • Genre: Action RPG
  • Number of players: 1 player (offline); 1-4 players (online)
  • Age Rating: T for Teen
  • NSO requirement: Yes

Pros

  • Tons of single- and multiplayer content
  • SImplest online connectivity in the series yet.
  • Plenty of upcoming updates and DLC content will add even more value

Cons

  • Can be challenging to learn for first-time players
  • Online matchmaking 

The Nintendo Switch has plenty of excellent multiplayer RPGs—including Warframe, Diablo 2 and 3, and Torchlight 3, all of which were considered for this category—but Monster Hunter Rise currently stands as the system’s best online RPG. The latest in the beloved, long-running Monster Hunter series, Rise asks you and a team of up to three friends to track and slay giant monsters. Felling a beast rewards you with materials used to upgrade and craft new weapons and armor, including giant swords, axes, and hammers, so you can go off and hunt stronger enemies.

Despite its simplicity, the Monster Hunter formula creates a deeply engaging cycle of preparation, action-packed hunting, and character customization. And, while hunting monsters can get repetitive, those quests give you time to master the various tools and weapons at your disposal so you can better stalk your intimidating prey.

Best online racing game: Mario Kart 8 Deluxe

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Why it made the cut: Mario Kart 8 Deluxe is the biggest Mario Kart game yet, sporting an active online community and tons of local head-to-head game modes for offline matches.

Specs

  • Genre: Racing game
  • Number of players: 1-4 offline; up to 12 players online
  • Rating: Rated E for Everyone
  • NSO requirement: Yes

Pros

  • Tons of content and game modes
  • Variable difficulty settings of online and offline races
  • Can play locally on a single Switch via split-screen mode

Cons

  • Rehashed content may be underwhelming to long-time fans
  • Need to pay for upcoming DLC content

Is there any more quintessentially “Nintendo” multiplayer game than the Mario Kart franchise? The Switch version, Mario Kart 8 Deluxe, is actually an enhanced port of Mario Kart 8 for the Wii U. Injected with more gameplay modes and enhanced with better online multiplayer, there’s more Mario Kart in Deluxe than any other version. You can race in 48 new and returning tracks, plus eight battle arenas for competitive modes, using a wide array of Nintendo characters ranging from Mario and Luigi to crossovers like Link from The Legend of Zelda, the Inkling from Splatoon, and Isabell from Animal Crossing

What’s more, Mario Kart 8 Deluxe will receive much more support over the next year. Nintendo recently announced a series of premium updates that will add an additional 48 new tracks over the coming months and into 2023, so you know people will continue playing online for a long time.

Best competitive puzzle game: Tetris 99

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Why it made the cut: Tetris 99 is a refreshing, large-scale multiplayer reinvention of the impeccable gameplay we all know so well.

Specs

  • Genre: Puzzle game
  • Number of players: Up to 99 players per online match
  • Rating: Rated E for Everyone
  • NSO requirement: Yes (included as a perk of the NSO subscription)

Pros

  • Multiplayer matches are a novel spin on Tetris gameplay
  • Seasonal events and daily challenges keep the game fresh
  • Included with Nintendo Switch Online subscription

Cons

  • Online matches can be overwhelming if you’re new to Tetris
  • Only available to active NSO subscribers

Tetris 99 turns the classic block-dropping puzzle game into a massive “battle royale”-style competition. Rather than simply playing to beat your own score, you arrange blocks and clear lines to send junk blocks and jam up the 98 other players who are all trying to hold out as long as possible.

Some may find the idea of hyper-competitive online Tetris to be too overwhelming. However, even if you’re one of the bottom 98 players, you still gain points that unlock new cosmetic items like stage backgrounds, music tracks, and player icons. The game also offers daily and weekly challenges that don’t necessarily require ranking number one on the leaderboards to complete. 

Tetris 99 is a “free” perk of the Switch’s Nintendo Switch Online subscription. There’s currently no way to buy and play Tetris 99 without NSO, but the game is good enough that we could easily recommend subscribing for a little while just to play it.

Best online shooter: Splatoon 3

Nintendo

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Why it made the cut: Splatoon 2’s unique spin on online shooters is as vibrant and colorful as it is competitive, and one you can only play on Nintendo Switch.

Specs

  • Genre: Third-person shooter
  • Number of players: 1-4 offlines; 1-8 online
  • Rating: E10+ for players 10 and older
  • NSO requirement: yes

Pros

  • Unique arena-control gameplay
  • Plenty of unique weapons and strategies to try
  • Multiple competitive, co-op, and single-player modes

Cons

  • The first-person shooter genre requires a fair amount of skill.

Splatoon 3 is unique among shooters. Rather than focusing on blasting your opponents like in Fortnite or Overwatch—both solid shooters also on Switch—Splatoon 3 is all about shooting the arena with paint. Each four-person team has its own paint color, the team with the most paint on the floors and walls at the end of the match wins. Weapons range from paintball and squirt gun-like “firearms,” to giant paint rollers and paint grenades. Of course, these weapons can also knock out other players for a few seconds, giving you a window to coat the level without interference. 

Older competitive shooter fans might brush the game off for its family-friendly aesthetic. Still, the bevy of unique weapon types, character loadouts, and gameplay modes (including ranked matched) will appeal to hardcore players. If you’re not in a competitive mood, there is the 4-player co-op horde mode Salmon Run and a single-player campaign focusing on platforming and puzzles utilizing the game’s paint-based weapons. 

Best multiplayer fighting game: Super Smash Bros. Ultimate

Nintendo

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Why it made the cut: Beneath Super Smash Bros Ultimate’s massive character roster and layers of gaming history and references is a fun platform fighter that can appeal to players of all skill levels.

Specs

  • Genre: Platform fighting game
  • Number of players: 1-8 players online and locally
  • Rating: T for Teen
  • NSO requirement: Yes

Pros

  • A massive roster featuring beloved characters from throughout video game history
  • Custom game modes and gameplay options to suit every player’s skill level
  • Robust single-player content to complement the multiplayer modes
  • Tons gaming trivia and history to unlock

Cons

  • Finding and learning a new character can be overwhelming.
  • Online matches will be challenging for new players.

The memes were right: Super Smash Bros Ultimate is one of the biggest video game crossovers ever made. Including paid DLC content, there are 89 playable characters, 114 stages, and hundreds of songs, trophies, and other references from franchises across all of video game history. It’s not just Nintendo either; Characters owned by Microsoft, Square Enix, Capcom, SNK, Sega, Konami, and more all make appearances. 

More than a video game museum, though, Super Smash Bros Ultimate is one of the great fighting games. A “platform fighter” that revolves around simple but precise movements and attacks. Without any combos to learn, it is very easy to figure out the basics but takes months or even years to master.

Multiplayer Matches can support up to 8 players (or AI-controlled opponents) in team-based or free-for-all bouts. Specialty arenas and randomly appearing items mix things up even further, ensuring that you can always find a new way to play. (That said, did I mention that there are nearly 90 characters?)

Best multiplayer action RPG: Diablo 3 Eternal Collection

Nintendo

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Why it made the cut: Diablo 3: The Eternal Collection brings one of the revered action RPG franchises to a Nintendo console for the first time.

Specs 

  • Genre: Action RPG (Role Playing Game)
  • Number of Players: 1-4 Players (Local and Online)
  • Age Rating: M (Mature)
  • NSO requirement: Yes (For online play)

Pros

  • Fast-paced gameplay that keeps players continually engaged
  • Large stable of character types, which allows for a lot of customizability
  • Several difficulty levels extend replay value

Cons

  • Not suitable for all audiences

There was a time when the idea of a Diablo game on a Nintendo console would have been unthinkable, but thankfully that’s no longer the case. The latest entry in Activision Blizzard’s classic action RPG feels right at home on Switch, and the ability to play this title on the go gives it a leg up over higher fidelity versions on other consoles or the PC.

There’s no way to sugarcoat this: Diablo 3: The Eternal Collection throws you into a literal fight with the devil, which develops over the course of several chapters. There are no classic Nintendo characters to be found in this dark world, but you do have the ability to customize a character from one of several classes. The character class you choose will impact how you make your way through the game. A barbarian, for example, will attack enemies at close range with classic weapons. Conversely, a witch will take down foes using magic from a safe distance.

The gameplay loop in Diablo 3: The Eternal Collection revolves around defeating hoards of enemies and completing quests to advance the story and acquire new weapons, armor, and accessories to strengthen your character. You can play this entire game solo, but playing with up to three friends on the couch or online can make the adventure even better. The game will automatically scale its difficulty, so there’ll always be challenging sections—especially boss battles. This game isn’t for everyone, but players who want a fast-paced title set in a dark world will find a lot to like, especially if you replay the story at a higher difficulty or a different character class. The option to play with friends makes Diablo 3: The Eternal Collection that much more enjoyable.

Best multiplayer sports game: Mario Strikers: Battle League

Nintendo

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Why it made the cut: Mario Strikers: Battle League is the perfect sports game for players who favor style and originality over rigid rule sets.

Specs 

  • Genre: Sports
  • Number of Players: 1-4 Players (Online and offline)
  • Age Rating: E 10+ (Everyone 10 years or older)
  • NSO requirement: Yes (For online play)

Pros

  • Simple rules and controls
  • Growing roster of characters and stages
  • Surprisingly deep customizability

Cons

  • Only for fans of soccer

Nintendo has done a great job designing a host of sports games that feature characters from the Super Mario franchise, often with fun, fantastical twists. The reason we recommend these titles over more traditional sports games from the Madden or FIFA series is that the Switch isn’t powerful enough to play these games at their highest fidelity. Developers design those games for the Xbox and PlayStation, then release a less advanced version for the Switch. Luckily, Nintendo’s sports games fill in the gaps very well.

Mario Strikers: Battle League is the first entry in Nintendo’s soccer game series in 15 years, and we couldn’t be happier to see it return. The game follows the general rules of the classic sport—two teams try to get a ball into the back of their opponent’s net without using their hands—but that’s where the similarities end. Players in Battle League can use items like koopa shells and special attacks to smash the ball across the court in flashy style. The game’s physics aren’t particularly realistic either, making this game feel equal parts Super Mario and Space Jam. The fun of creating a soccer team containing fantastical characters like Mario, Bowser, and Yoshi and watching them face off against Luigi, Princess Peach, and Toad is bliss. This is especially true when playing the game with other people, which makes the experience even more frenzied.

Fans of soccer will get a kick out of Mario Strikes: Battle League if they can suspend their disbelief enough to embrace the chaos. Surprisingly enough, this game’s multiplayer modes are complemented by a pretty solid single-player campaign and character upgrade system, which allows you to unlock new gear to change your player’s stats. The grind to get new gear will keep players coming back, especially since Nintendo has periodically updated this title with new stages and characters.

Best multiplayer minigame collection: WarioWare: Get It Together!

Nintendo

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Why it made the cut: WarioWare: Get It Together! is the latest entry in Nintendo’s oddest franchise, and its frenetic gameplay makes it a blast to play with your friends.

Specs 

  • Genre: Mini-game collection
  • Number of Players: 1-4 Players (Offline)
  • Age Rating: E 10+ (Everyone 10 years or older)
  • NSO requirement: No

Pros:

  • The game moves at a brisk pace
  • Irreverent humor hits more often than it misses
  • Mini-games are varied enough that you won’t get bored

Cons:

  • Fast-paced gameplay may make it a little difficult for new players

WarioWare: Get It Together! is a very weird game, but if you and your friends have a silly sense of humor you’ll have a lot of fun with it. The WarioWare series requires you to continually complete a series of rapid-fire minigames that come at you one after another. Games only last five seconds, which means you’ll have to see, understand, and complete the objective very quickly to advance. Thankfully, most of the mini-games are very simple, like using your Joy-Con controller to shake a tree to make apples fall, or tearing off a person’s face mask. The game’s art style is colorful, and the selection of games is really fun. Only boss stages, which happen after you’ve completed roughly 15 minigames, can get challenging.

Wario is the only mainline Nintendo character in this game. Still, he’s joined by friends that are present in other WarioWare titles, so you’ll be familiar with them if you’re experienced with the franchise. These side characters are full of personality, and WarioWare isn’t shy about showcasing their style. Our favorite character is Jimmy-T, a blue-haired disco lover whose mustache is shaped like musical notes at the end of it. All of the minigames in WarioWare: Get It Together! were designed to be played by a single person, but adding a second makes it even more fun. The ability to divide and conquer tasks requires constant communication, keeping players on their toes.

There’s a lot of fun to be had with this game, but folks unfamiliar with the franchise, or gaming in general, may require a little help to get started. Having to play game after game after game in quick succession does require a fair amount of dexterity, but once you get into a rhythm you may find it hard to put the controllers down.

Things to consider before buying one of the best multiplayer Switch games

There’s a wider set of things to think about before picking out a game to play with other people. Beyond the simple question, “does this seem fun,” you want to ensure that you’re setting yourself and, potentially, your friends up to have a good time. Depending on the situation, you should see if you’ll need any extra gear or an internet connection.

Skill level

The most important element of any multiplayer game is, of course, your friends. If you plan to play with a specific group of people, make sure you take everyone’s taste into account when looking for your group’s next game. Video games range not just in content, but also in gameplay style and complexity: Some players will find some genres more fun or accessible than others. For instance, a first-time player may struggle with memorizing complicated inputs. Other players may prefer the gameplay of a combat-heavy action game rather than a racing game. 

Local vs. online multiplayer

Speaking of online versus offline games, make sure you check whether you need an internet connection, as both come with their own considerations. Some Switch games are made specifically for local play, while others are designed for online play. 

Local multiplayer or couch co-op games are made for playing at home on a single device. (There are a few games where you can connect multiple Switches locally, but those are exceptions, not the rule.) There’s no extra setup for playing Switch games locally, but you will need to have enough controllers and, more importantly, everyone will need to be in the same place.

When playing games with friends online, you and all your friends need to own the game and connect your Switch consoles to the internet. In most cases, you will also all need active Nintendo Switch Online subscriptions.

Online multiplayer on Switch is also made somewhat more complicated than other consoles because it lacks a meaningful infrastructure for in-game or party chat. While some online multiplayer games are playable with little-to-no communication between players, many require strategic coordination with your teammates. Select titles like Mario Kart 8 Deluxe and Splatoon 2 support voice chat through the Nintendo Voice mobile phone app, but it’s difficult to use. You’re better off organizing a group call in Discord, the gaming-centric communication platform, or another app with group voice chat support.

Nintendo Switch Online

Most online multiplayer games require a subscription to Nintendo Switch Online, the company’s internet utility service. The base service, which costs $4 per month or $20 per year, allows you to play all online-compatible multiplayer games over the internet, gives you access to cloud storage, and a limited library of NES and SNES games, among other things. A premium subscription, Nintendo Switch Online + Expansion Pack, offers a wider range of retro games and covers the cost of access to extra content for certain popular Nintendo games, including Animal Crossing: New Horizons and Mario Kart 8 Deluxe.

A small number of online multiplayer games—including Fortnite, Apex Legends, and Knockout City—do not require a Nintendo Switch Online subscription to access online features. 

Number of controllers

In addition to Nintendo Switch Online, many multiplayer games may require extra hardware. The standard Nintendo Switch and Nintendo Switch OLED come with two Joy-Cons to support 2-player modes, but you’ll need more if you plan to play with 3 or 4 people total. Some local multiplayer games may require each player to have two Joy-Cons, so you may need extras or a Switch Pro Controller

Age rating

If you’re buying a game to play with a group that includes kids, you may want to ensure the game is suitable for everyone involved. All games on the Switch are rated by the Entertainment Software Rating Board, or the ESRB, so you can check for questionable content at a glance. The ESRB’s ratings are easy to read and clearly labeled on a game’s box or eShop page, and there’s a handy guide for parents available on the ESRB’s website that details each of the ratings and content warnings.

FAQs

Q: How much does a multiplayer Switch game cost?

New Nintendo Switch games typically cost $60 at launch, though independent games may cost less. For an additional fee, many games also feature premium downloadable content, or DLC.

Q: Can you play Fortnite on Nintendo Switch?

Yes. Fortnite is available as a free download from the Nintendo Switch eShop. It is one of the few games that does not require a Nintendo Switch Online subscription to connect to the internet.

Q: What Nintendo Switch Mario game is the best?

Everybody has their own favorite Mario game. If we look at the data, however … Super Mario Odyssey is the highest-rated traditional Mario game on the Switch. Mario Kart 8 Deluxe is the highest-rated Mario spin-off title.

Q: What is the best multiplayer Switch game for kids?

Most of Nintendo’s first-party published games are made for all ages. In addition to our recommendations from this list, we’re partial to Super Mario Odyssey and Mario’s many sports games, including Mario Golf: Super Rush and Mario Tennis Aces.

Final thoughts on the best multiplayer Switch games

Best local multiplayer: Mario Party Superstars
Best online co-op: Super Mario 3D World + Bowser’s Fury
Best indie: Overcooked: All You Can Eat Edition 
Best online RPG: Monster Hunter Rise
Best online racing game: Mario Kart 8 Deluxe
Best competitive puzzle game: Tetris 99
Best online shooter: Splatioon 3
Best fighting game: Super Smash Bros. Ultimate
Best action RPG: Diablo 3 Eternal Collection
Best sports game: Mario Strikers: Battle League
Best minigame collection: WarioWare: Get It Together!

The Nintendo Switch is one of the best-selling video game consoles of all time, thanks to its incredible library of games—multiplayer and otherwise. The handful we’ve covered here just scratches the surface of all the great games it supports that you can play with friends, but you’ll find it’s a really fun surface to scratch.

Why trust us

Popular Science started writing about technology more than 150 years ago. There was no such thing as “gadget writing” when we published our first issue in 1872, but if there was, our mission to demystify the world of innovation for everyday readers means we would have been all over it. Here in the present, PopSci is fully committed to helping readers navigate the increasingly intimidating array of devices on the market right now.

Our writers and editors have combined decades of experience covering and reviewing consumer electronics. We each have our own obsessive specialties—from high-end audio to video games to cameras and beyond—but when we’re reviewing devices outside of our immediate wheelhouses, we do our best to seek out trustworthy voices and opinions to help guide people to the very best recommendations. We know we don’t know everything, but we’re excited to live through the analysis paralysis that internet shopping can spur so readers don’t have to.

The post The best multiplayer Switch games in 2023 appeared first on Popular Science.

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The best HDMI cables for 2023 https://www.popsci.com/reviews/best-hdmi-cables/ Fri, 12 Nov 2021 12:00:00 +0000 https://www.popsci.com/?p=407544
Best HDMI Cables
Mike Epstein

Make sure you’re getting the most out of your TVs and monitors with the optimal HDMI cables.

The post The best HDMI cables for 2023 appeared first on Popular Science.

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Best HDMI Cables
Mike Epstein

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Best overall Amazon Basics is the best HDMI cable. AmazonBasics High-Speed HDMI Cable
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AmazonBasics keeps it simple and cheap, which makes the brand’s HDMI cable hard to beat.

Best HDMI 2.1 Zeskit Maya is the best HDMI cable. Zeskit Maya Ultra High Speed
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Among certified Ultra High Speed HDMI cables, Zeskit delivers top quality at an accessible price.

Best long cable Monoprice Active is the best HDMI cable. Monoprice High Speed Active
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Monoprice’s dependable and inexpensive cables are the way to go when running HDMI over long distances.

HDMI (High-Definition Multimedia Interface) is one of the most common A/V connectors for TVs and monitors, and HDMI cables going away anytime soon. Whether you’re a gamer, a cinephile, or a sports fan, you want bright, clean images at high frame rates. A sub-par HDMI cable can needlessly hold your media devices back. You may have seen “HDMI 2.1” and tensed up at the prospect of yet another changing technical standard with which to keep up. Don’t worry—it’s not as complicated as it seems. We’re here to help make sure you can find the best HDMI cable to suit your particular audio-visual needs.

How we chose the best HDMI cables

As you make expensive upgrades to your home entertainment system with the latest and greatest 4K television, a PlayStation 5, and an incredible surround sound system, you’ll want to make sure you’re unlocking their full potential with cables that can keep pace. The key is HDMI cables, which are straightforward and inexpensive. There’s really one stat you need to worry about: the speed. Your HDMI cable transmits data from your Blu-ray player, cable box, game console, AV receiver, or another device, and that’s it. You can only make a cable better (or worse) by improving how quickly it can send that information. Every audio- and video-related feature that might be dependent on a better cable, including HDR and that new Dolby Atmos soundbar, simply needs a pipeline with sufficient bandwidth to run properly. If they fail, there will be white static, or it won’t work at all; otherwise, they are working at full capacity without any real marginal gains and little specialization to be found. 

Accordingly, the best HDMI cable is typically the cheapest certified cable that suits your needs. We combed over professional and consumer reviews and pulled from years of personal A/V experience to distill the best HDMI cables to suit various situations. All the options we’ve selected are from trusted brands and are overwhelmingly validated by users to be good for the long haul.

The best HDMI cables: Reviews & Recommendations

As stated above, HDMI cables are very straightforward, and the best one for you is probably also the cheapest, which is why Amazon Basics takes our top spot for most people. Our other top pick is the future-proofed best possible HDMI you can get for an affordable price, so it’s perfectly suited for all those 4K movies and next-gen gaming for the foreseeable future. We’ve also selected a range of specialized cables for edge cases where installation might otherwise be tricky.

Best HDMI cable overall: AmazonBasics High-Speed HDMI Cable

Why it made the cut: AmazonBasics keeps it simple and cheap, which makes their product the best HDMI cable overall.

Specs

  • Speed: 48 GB/s
  • Max Resolution: 8K/60Hz
  • Length: 3/6/10 ft.
  • Audio: ARC
  • HDMI: 2.1

Pros

  • Inexpensive
  • Durable
  • Great performance

Cons

  • Stiff

AmazonBasics products can be very hit or miss for more complex products like electronics, but HDMI cables are in their sweet spot. Any cable certified to a particular standard, if it works at all, is as good as any other outside of aesthetics or ergonomics, so there’s no need to spend more than the minimal prices offered by Amazon or Monoprice. This premium HDMI cable is a little stiff, but that also makes it more durable. According to user reviews, it’s generally considered to be better constructed than other cables at slower standards is both our top pick and our best budget buy.

Best HDMI 2.1 cable: Zeskit Maya Ultra High Speed

Why it made the cut: Among certified Ultra High Speed HDMI cables, Zeskit delivers top quality at an accessible price.

Specs

  • Speed: 48 GB/s
  • Max Resolution: 10K/120Hz
  • Length: 1.5/3/6.5/10 ft.
  • Audio: eARC
  • HDMI: 2.1

Pros

  • Ultra High Speed performance
  • Durable nylon braiding

Cons 

  • Expensive

The best HDMI 2.1 cable offers more capacity than you will be able to use for the foreseeable future. No graphics card in existence could come anywhere close to playing a AAA game at 10K and 120 frames per second. Playing games in 4K at 120 fps is still more theory than practice for even the PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X. Zeskit’s Ultra High Speed is certified to offer the full power of 48 GB/s, which is almost exclusively relevant to gamers for the time being. It’s durable and well-constructed. With a 5-star rating based on 17,000 Amazon reviews, players are satisfied.

Best flat HDMI cable: Ultra Clarity Flat 4K High Speed

Ultra Clarity

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Why it made the cut: Ultra Clarity’s sturdy, flat, and flexible cables are perfect for staying out of your way.

Specs

  • Speed: 18 GB/s
  • Max Resolution: 4K/60Hz
  • Length: 25/30/35/40/50 ft.
  • Audio: ARC
  • HDMI: 2.0b

Pros

  • Corrosion-resistant gold-plated connectors, full metal jacket, 26 AWG, triple shielding, and solid copper conductors
  • Flat, CL3 for in-wall installation
  • Great performance

Cons 

  • More expensive

Purchasing the best flat HDMI cable can be a great resource if you have a tight space behind your television, or for when you need to run your HDMI cable under a carpet or behind some furniture or even in your walls. Ultra Clarity offers an excellent High Speed HDMI cable with solid connectors and great performance. What sets it apart is the flat and flexible form factor, along with a PVC jacket that gives it extra durability and allows for 180-degree turns. They are a little more expensive than other cables of the same speed, but that’s the price of quality and flexibility.

Best 90-degree HDMI cable: UGREEN HDMI elbow cable

Why it made the cut: UGREEN’s specialized right-angle HDMI is a perfect niche fix for when regular cables won’t quite fit.

Specs

  • Speed: 18 Gbps
  • Max Resolution: 4K/60Hz
  • Length: 3/6/10/15 ft.
  • Audio: ARC
  • HDMI: 2.0

Pros

  • Solid 90-degree connector
  • Great performance

Cons 

  • Niche application

Shenzhen-based UGREEN is a relatively new brand that’s proven reliable for high-quality electronics and accessories at reasonable prices. The company’s elbow HDMI cable has one connector with an abrupt 90-degree turn in it, which helps you plug into a TV or monitor that’s mounted flush against a wall. Otherwise, this best 90-degree HDMI cable features everything you’d expect from all of the cables on our list—gold-plated connectors, solid shielding, and consistent performance.

Best micro HDMI cable: BlueRigger Micro HDMI

Why it made the cut: BlueRigger’s durable micro HDMI-to-HDMI cable is a content creator’s best friend and our pick for the best micro HDMI cable.

Specs

  • Speed: 18 Gbps
  • Max Resolution: 4K/60Hz
  • Length: 3/6/10/15 ft.
  • Audio: ARC
  • HDMI: 2.0

Pros

  • Great performance
  • Durable construction
  • Micro USB adapter

Cons 

  • Niche application

Some devices are too small for conventional HDMI jacks, which is why micro HDMI exists. This micro HDMI-to-HDMI cable lets you connect GoPros, DSLRs, camcorders, and tablets to larger screens so that you can display your 4K/60 fps content in all its glory. It also lives up to manufacturer BlueRigger’s reputation for making durable products. And this is all the more important for an HDMI cable you’re likely to plug and unplug more frequently than a standard cable.

Best long HDMI cable: Monoprice High Speed Active

Why it made the cut: Monoprice’s dependable and inexpensive cables are the way to go when running HDMI over long distances.

Specs

  • Speed: 18 GB/s
  • Max Resolution: 4K/60Hz
  • Length: 25/30/35/40/45/50/60/100 ft.
  • Audio: ARC
  • HDMI: 2.0

Pros

  • Great performance
  • Durable construction
  • CL2-certified
  • Active connection for longer distances

Cons 

  • Expensive

Monoprice has been widely known as one of the best brands for inexpensive certified HDMI cables for a long time. If you absolutely have to run an HDMI cable more than 25 feet—such as for a conference room, auditorium, or fancy home theater—then an active, directional cable is absolutely essential. It draws a bit of power from the connected hardware to boost the signal over the long distance. Monoprice’s active cable covers from 25 up to 100 feet. It’s also CL2 certified, so you can safely run it through the walls or ceiling, which is likely more appealing if you have to cover a serious distance. The cables are also backed by a lifetime return policy in case of failure, so as the best long HDMI cable you can expect to get what you’ve paid for.

Best 10K: EZQuest Ultra HD HIGH Speed HDMI 10K 60HZ Cable

EZQuest

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Why it made the cut: Stream up to 10K at 120Hz refresh rate with this well-priced cable

Specs

  • Speed: 48 GB/s
  • Max Resolution: 10K/120Hz
  • Length: 7.2 ft.
  • Audio: eARC
  • HDMI: 2.1

Pros

  • eARC
  • Supports 3D video
  • Built-in strain relief

Cons 

  • Only one length of cable

Not all 10K HDMI cables are built the same. This one from EZQuest includes features we love, like eARC and a braided nylon cable, along with fantastic 10K max resolution at a 120Hz refresh rate. It supports 3D video, and is backward compatible to support existing HDMI devices. The wires are guarded in aluminum, copper mesh, PVC, and nylon braided shielding, which prevents strain relief and helps its longevity.

Things to consider before buying an HDMI cable

HDMI cables are one of the simplest components of your home A/V system but are also very important. Depending on what you’re doing, your cable can become a crucial bottleneck to your viewing and playing, so you want to ensure you have the right technical standard. All HDMI cables are backward compatible, and the connector has remained unchanged, so you don’t need to worry about newer cables working with your old devices. Here’s a little primer on separating the good HDMI cables from the bad, no matter what you need them for.

The need for speed

Cables, HDMI or otherwise, do one thing: transmit data. HDMI data is measured in gigabytes per second (GB/s). “Standard” and “High Speed” HDMI are still widely circulated and can support 4.95 and 10.2 GB/s, respectively. High Speed HDMI can support up to 4K resolution at 30 Hz, which is good enough for most film and television, though not all the most advanced, dynamic forms of HDR. “Premium High Speed” is the next step up, jumping to 18 GB/s, or enough to handle 4K HDR content at 60 Hz, which can support almost any contemporary application. The highest level, “Ultra High Speed,” can transmit a whopping 48 GB/s, opening the door for 10K resolution at 120 Hz.

You’ve also likely seen version numbers floating around as well (HDMI 1.4, 2.0, and, more recently, 2.1). These technically describe the communication standard being used by the hardware you’re connecting with the cables, rather than the cables themselves. All you need to know for our purposes is that you should get a Premium High Speed cable (18 GB/s) to connect HDMI 2.0 devices and an Ultra High Speed cable (48 GB/s) for HDMI 2.1 gear. If your hardware supports 2.0 or 2.1, you need the matching cable to take advantage. Older cables will still work, but the data will be throttled to whatever the cable can support, limiting framerate and resolution.

If you’re buying a new cable now, we only recommend considering the last two. Right now, premium High-Speed HDMI can handle content in 4K at 60 frames per second, which covers almost anything you can throw at your TV. Ultra High Speed may be necessary for some PS5, Xbox Series X, and high-end PC graphics cards to output at their absolute best in some cases, but right now it is fairly rare. Meanwhile, 8K video only exists for research and tech demos. In other words, Ultra High exists mostly in anticipation of future hardware and content. There’s nothing wrong with future-proofing, but know that Ultra High Speed is overkill for most people.

ARC and eARC

Established in 2009 as part of HDMI 1.4, ARC (audio return channel) is a feature that allows the HDMI cable to run audio data back and forth between your TV and a separate audio receiver or soundbar. This can simplify your set-up by reducing the need for a discrete audio cable and allowing for simplified control of your systems with the TV’s remote. It’s been part of the HDMI standard long enough that most cables support it, and certainly any new ones. A drawback is that it does not support HD audio standards like Dolby Atmos or 5.1 surround sound.

Meanwhile, eARC (the “e” standing for “enhanced”) is a more recent upgrade to ARC along with the HDMI 2.1 standards. Taking advantage of the torrential 48 Gbps that Ultra High Speed cables support, it can fully support uncompressed audio. Since eARC is baked into HDMI 2.1, you will need an Ultra High Speed HDMI cable to get the full effect.

Length and wall installation

As with pretty much any type of cable, shorter is better. With a longer HDMI cable, you’re more likely to experience some level of signal degradation. If you run an HDMI cable over 25 feet or more, you may notice issues like visual artifacts, dimming, and input lag. 

If you absolutely can’t bring your source and monitor closer together, you should consider using an “active” HDMI cable, which draws a little bit of power from the connected device to boost its signal and send it substantially further while maintaining quality. Active cables are a little more complicated to set up because they only draw power from one side. You’ll need to ensure it’s plugged in the right way before committing to a setup. They are also more expensive than other cables, given their length and the additional tech involved.

If you plan to run your cable through a wall or ceiling as part of that long run, then you need to make sure your cable is certified as “CL2” or “CL3” (class 2 or 3), meaning it’s rated for wall installation. Standard cables pose greater fire risks when running through walls and potentially contacting with screws, nails, and other metal hardware. CL2 cables (including HDMI, among other types such as speaker wires) are rated for home use, up to 150 volts, while CL3 goes up to 300 volts for commercial installation. Both are made safer with special coating that reduces their risk of catching fire and gives off less toxic gas if they do.

FAQs

Q: How much do the best HDMI cables cost?

Depending on the length and included features, the best HDMI cables run from $8-$20. Prices increase with length.

Q: Do expensive HDMI cables make a difference?

Nope! HDMI cables are a simple piece of hardware that does one thing, and aside from the very specialized examples we gave above, there aren’t any special features for which you can pay extra. Just get the least expensive cable from a reliable brand that meets your needs.

Q: Is HDMI 2.1 necessary?

For the vast majority of people, not at all. HDMI 2.0 can already support 4K 60 Hz, which can handle any video content and all but the most powerful gaming hardware. HDMI 2.1 is only worth considering if you have one of the few sources that can use it, such as a PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X, or a very new and powerful PC graphics card.

Q: What HDMI cable is needed for Dolby Atmos?

That depends on your hardware and the Dolby audio codec it supports. For “Dolby Digital Plus” devices, any Premium High Speed (HDMI 2.0) cable or later should support Atmos over ARC (including all the cables on this list). However, if it’s the lossless “Dolby TrueHD” format, you may need the additional bandwidth of an HDMI 2.1 cable.

Final thoughts on the best HDMI cables

Hopefully, this clears up any confusion about what you need to consider when buying the best HDMI cable to complete your home theater. HDMI 2.1 is tempting and probably worthwhile if you’ve got (or plan to get) cutting-edge gaming hardware. Most importantly, keep it simple with known brands and low prices. There aren’t any additional features that make more expensive cables worth buying, so don’t let a salesman convince you otherwise.

Why trust us

Popular Science started writing about technology more than 150 years ago. There was no such thing as “gadget writing” when we published our first issue in 1872, but if there was, our mission to demystify the world of innovation for everyday readers means we would have been all over it. Here in the present, PopSci is fully committed to helping readers navigate the increasingly intimidating array of devices on the market right now.

Our writers and editors have combined decades of experience covering and reviewing consumer electronics. We each have our own obsessive specialties—from high-end audio to video games to cameras and beyond—but when we’re reviewing devices outside of our immediate wheelhouses, we do our best to seek out trustworthy voices and opinions to help guide people to the very best recommendations. We know we don’t know everything, but we’re excited to live through the analysis paralysis that internet shopping can spur so readers don’t have to.

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Xbox Series X vs. PS5: How to pick between the two biggest new game consoles https://www.popsci.com/reviews/xbox-series-x-vs-ps5/ Mon, 11 Apr 2022 22:00:00 +0000 https://www.popsci.com/?p=436515
Xbox Series X vs PS5
Mike Epstein

Choose the perfect console for your gaming with our handy guide.

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Xbox Series X vs PS5
Mike Epstein

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The PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X launched in November 2020. That may sound old in the gadget world, but it will likely be several more years before these machines reach their full potential. Due to supply chain issues and a host of global complications, these devices haven’t always been easy to buy: you couldn’t simply waltz into a store after release and walk out with one tucked under your arm. Supply has improved dramatically of late, but, with a string of awesome exclusive games tied to each and a selection of promising new features that immerse you deeper in the gaming experience, it’s worth digging into the details to discover which next-gen console is right for you.

Xbox Series X vs PS5: Welcome to the ninth generation of video game consoles

As graphics technology edges closer and closer to uncanny realism, competition within each video game console generation is hotter than ever. It can feel like splitting hairs, but there are some key differences in approach between the PS5 and Xbox Series X that we’re going to identify to help you make an informed purchasing decision.

Xbox Series X

Mike Epstein

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Specs

  • Price: $499
  • Memory: 16 GB
  • Storage: 1TB SSD
  • Storage expansion: Seagate SSD expansion cards (512GB-2TB)
  • GPU power: 12.14 Teraflops
  • CPU speed: 3.8 GHz (3.6 GHz with SMT)
  • Dimensions: 5.94 x 11.85 x 5.94 inches
  • Weight: 9.8 lbs
  • Ports: 3 x USB type-A, HDMI 2.1, Ethernet

The Xbox Series X is Microsoft’s latest effort and the most powerful next-gen console on the market, with a whopping 12 teraflops of raw power. It’s capable of playing games in 4K at up to 120 frames per second, so you’ll be able to enjoy the detailed fidelity and fluid frame rate of beautiful exclusives like Halo Infinite and Forza Horizon 5. The reserved mini-fridge-shaped design of the Series X is a shift from previous generations but—great news—the console still looks very sleek and unassuming when it’s nestled in your TV stand. 

Aside from better graphics and higher frame rate, the most obvious improvement of the Xbox Series X has to be faster load times. The console’s 1TB solid-state drive boots software and powers through loading screens almost instantly for many games. You can also make use of the Xbox operating system’s Quick Resume function, introduced with the Series X, which suspends save states for up to three Xbox Series X games, and more for backward-compatible games. Quick Resume allows you to jump back in right where you left off, whether or not you saved your game.

But Xbox’s secret weapon this generation is Xbox Game Pass Ultimate. Microsoft’s game subscription service lets you access hundreds of games, including all of Microsoft’s first-party exclusives, for $10 to $15 per month (depending on your subscription renewal option). Xbox’s adoption of the service model helps to take the sting out of the old method of paying retail prices for multiple games every year, as long as you’re ok with adding another bill to your monthly expenses.

PlayStation 5

Mike Epstein

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Specs

  • Price: Digital Edition: $399 / Standard (with disc drive): $499
  • Memory: 16 GB
  • Storage: 825GB SSD
  • Storage expansion: Select M.2 SSD
  • GPU power: 10.28 Teraflops
  • CPU speed: 3.5 GHz
  • Dimensions: 15.4 x 10.24 x 4.09 inches
  • Weight: 8.6 lbs
  • Ports: 1 x USB type-C, 3 x USB type-A, HDMI 2.1, Ethernet

A highly coveted piece of tech, the PlayStation 5 is also a monumentally powerful game console. With 10 teraflops of GPU power, the console chews through graphically intensive exclusives like Returnal, Gran Turismo 7, and Horizon: Forbidden West. Like the Series X, the PS5’s SSD trivializes loading times, letting you fast-travel around open-world maps in seconds. With an 825GB storage drive, you’ll be able to download several chunky games before it gets full, with expandable storage available if you wish to grow your persistent library even further.

Sony has pulled focus onto immersion for this generation, a mantra delivered most acutely through the DualSense controller, with its remarkable vibration technology, tactile adaptive triggers, and built-in speaker. The PS5’s Tempest Engine delivers 3D Audio through TV speakers or any headset, which brings players closer to in-game soundscapes and environments. 

In 2022, Sony made a big leap in catching up to Microsoft’s Game Pass Ultimate offering. PS Plus Premium costs $18 per month (or as low as $79 per year if you’re willing to pay annually). It grants access to online play, as well as a catalog of current games and a backlog of classic games from PlayStations of yore.

At $399 for the digital edition and $499 for the standard PS5 with a disc drive, consumers have options depending on the way that they consume games, without having to sacrifice any raw power. But perhaps the most divisive thing about the PS5 is its physical design. The console is anything but subtle, with its white over-extending plastic plates and griddle middle. Given how hard it’s been to find, I imagine there are plenty of people who don’t mind displaying it prominently, like an e-commerce trophy.

Xbox Series X vs. PS5: How do they stack up?

Xbox Series X vs PS5
The Xbox Series X and PS5, side by side. Mike Epstein

Xbox and PlayStation have locked horns for decades and the competition remains fierce in this console generation. To help you see past the hype, we’re going to hone in on some major areas where the two titans differ, so you know what console to buy.

Understanding the differences between each console’s design and technical performance is important, but the content is the most important dynamic in the current gaming landscape. The Xbox Series X and the PS5 differ in their approach to services and software, with gulfs in quality and quantity on either side.

Are you looking for a Criterion Collection of excellent exclusives or just a huge library of good games to play on your new console? Do things like backward compatibility or virtual reality matter to you? And, crucially, how much is this all going to cost? Let’s see what they have to offer.

Parts and performance

The Xbox Series X and the PS5 are closer in power and performance than they look on paper. Sure, the Series X is technically more powerful but the bumps in frame rate and fidelity feel relatively minor in many games. You probably aren’t going to notice a graphical difference between the two in most games. They’re both capable of running games in 4K resolution at up to 120 frames per second. (Both Sony and Microsoft say the consoles are capable of 8K in theory, but the option isn’t available now without an asterisk.) Neither one will make you regret pairing it with one of the best gaming TVs on the market. Both machines’ performance, ultimately, comes down to how developers use the consoles to create software that makes the most of their parts.

Beyond the spec sheets, though, the Series X passes on some practical benefits from its extra power. For example, it can suspend multiple games using Quick Resume, so, for example, you can play and suspend Psychonauts 2, Assassin’s Creed Valhalla, and Elden Ring, then jump back into any of them where you left off. The PS5, meanwhile, can only suspend the game that you’re currently playing. As we mentioned, it doesn’t take long for the PS5’s SSD to boot up your game from scratch but you do need to be more mindful of saves and potential lost progress.

Storage

Xbox Series X vs PS5
The Xbox Series X supports proprietary storage expansion cards (left), while the PS5 works with some off-the-shelf M.2 solid-state drives (right). Mike Epstein

Usable storage is another factor to think about. The Xbox may have 1TB of storage, but you can only use around 802GB of it. The PS5 has 825GB of storage, but you can only use around 667GB of it. Storage expansion is really helpful for both consoles, so you could argue this comes out as a wash. On the other hand, that extra 135GB should translate to an extra two to three games (or Call of Duty: Vanguard).

The PS5 has less storage space but it makes up for it with its approach to upgradable internal memory. If you’re OK with opening up your PS5, you can purchase and slot one of several third-party M.2 SSD drives in there and expand your storage with relative ease. The Xbox Series X takes a different approach, with a proprietary, expensive Seagate expansion card that inserts into a dedicated slot in the back of the console.

Design and ports

These two consoles could not look any more different. The PS5 is space-age and alien, whereas the Xbox Series X is reserved and brutalist. The PS5’s size and wacky contours can be off-putting or inviting depending on your style, whereas the Xbox is hard to grumble at with its space-saving, sleek approach. The only difference between the ports is that the PS5 offers a USB-C input, which is some solid future-proofing and handy for fast-charging

Peripherals

Xbox Series X vs PS5
The PS5 DualSense and 4th-generation Xbox controller, side by side. (Note: The Xbox Series X comes with a black controller.) Mike Epstein

Sony’s focus on immersion in this generation has birthed the DualSense, a USB-C PS5 controller that delivers convincing haptic vibrations, adaptive triggers, and internal audio that makes meaningful strides toward full gaming immersion by enhancing moment-to-moment gameplay features. Guns jamming will be reflected in the triggers, as will the tensile pull of a bow or a web in open-world games. You can feel raindrops and the pitter-patter of feet in your palms and the controller’s speaker will augment in-game audio. Given the technical plateau between the consoles, this is easily a big win for the PlayStation 5 when it comes to providing a next-gen feeling. (Sony’s Pulse 3D gaming headset is also purpose-tuned for the PS5’s 3D Audio and a spatial-in-game experience.)

The Xbox Series X controller is the same design seen in previous generations but that means it is also one of the most ubiquitous and accessible controllers on the market. The haptics are still solid, and this time around there’s a USB-C port, a share button, and some textured paneling, which is a nice touch. At the end of the day, both controllers feel great and are perfect for playing games, but if you care about fancy features and immersion, the DualSense is delightful.

Software and services

Any expert will tell you that, when it comes to picking a game console, content is king. Xbox and PlayStation share some common ground but do vary in approach when it comes to software and services.

Over the last generation, Sony has delivered a consistent catalog of critically acclaimed and forward-thinking exclusive games and franchises like Bloodborne, God of War, The Last of Us, Uncharted, Marvel’s Spider-Man, and more. Sony cultivated a strong reputation on PS4 and it’s hard to ignore the sheer quality of its output. In its short lifespan so far, Sony has already started to do the same on PS5 with games like Deathloop, Demon’s Souls, and Ratchet and Clank: Rift Apart. Hard to argue with how the console has delivered in the software department for early adopters, and there are coveted games in development from Sony’s crop of acquired first-party studios, such as God of War: Ragnarok and Star Wars Eclipse.

Ratchet and Clank: Rift Apart, one of our favorite games, is only available on PS5.

Xbox, meanwhile, struggled with game development for most of the Xbox One generation. However, Microsoft’s acquisitions of Bethesda, Activision Blizzard, and many other game developers have pushed things in the right direction. Microsoft now holds the keys to franchises like Call of Duty, The Elder Scrolls, Fallout, and more, with many exciting new games in development from its vault of acquired studios, which, under the Xbox Game Studios banner, dwarf the size of PlayStation Studios. 

Recent exclusives like Halo Infinite and Forza Horizon 5 have also been critical success stories, which has helped Microsoft’s reputation considerably. To date, Microsoft has also championed backward compatibility over Sony and Nintendo, making the large swaths of the original Xbox and Xbox 360 playable natively, in addition to nearly the entire Xbox One library. Sony aims to close this gap with its upcoming PlayStation Plus Premium subscription, but its support is currently somewhat limited.

On the other hand, Sony has virtual reality, via its PlayStation VR headset. PlayStation VR 2 is on the horizon. Xbox has never released a VR headset or games.

Xbox Game Pass vs. PlayStation Plus

The next front of the “console war” between PlayStation and Xbox will be content subscriptions. Microsoft’s Xbox Game Pass Ultimate is a ridiculously good deal, offering a massive library of 450+ games to players for $14.99, including all of Xbox’s first-party and exclusive games on day one of their release. It’s worth noting that the subscription includes a separate Xbox Game Pass for PC library available on Windows, online multiplayer access, cloud gaming, monthly free games, and other discounts. It’s hard to grumble at Microsoft’s offering, especially if you aren’t keen on spending $60-$80 every time a game comes out.

Microsoft’s Xbox Game Pass subscription lets you play Xbox exclusives like Halo Infinite the day they come out for no additional cost.

Right now, Sony doesn’t have an equivalent service. Previously, it had two services that offered parts of the package: PlayStation Plus, which enabled online multiplayer and a monthly trio of games for $9.99 a month, and PlayStation Now, which offered limited streaming games on PS4 and PS5 for another $9.99.

Sony combined these services into a single, three-tiered PlayStation Plus subscription in June 2022. The first tier, PlayStation Plus Essential, is the same as the previous PlayStation Plus membership. The second, PlayStation Plus Extra, adds a catalog of up to 400 games to this deal for $14.99 a month. The top tier, PlayStation Plus Premium, goes further, adding 340 additional backward-compatible games from previous PlayStation generations for $17.99 a month, available via cloud streaming or digital download. Crucially, Sony has said that neither PlayStation Extra nor the PlayStation Premium subscriptions will include new exclusive games on release day.

Right now, there’s no question that Xbox Game Pass Ultimate is the superior subscription. It offers more games, a better value, and a pathway to playing the games you want. It’s hard to say whether the new PlayStation Plus will level the playing field, but Sony does have an advantage in its pipeline of amazing first-party exclusives. Sony said it will ardently try to preserve its level of quality as it slides into game streaming service territory, but is also adapting with the addition of a game library and backward compatibility in the future. The choice may come down to quality or quantity.

Price

The PlayStation 5 is the clear winner when it comes to value for money if you’re not bothered about having a disc drive. The digital edition of the PS5 (with no technical compromises) retails at $399, cutting $100 off of the flat retail price of the $499 Xbox Series X. When comparing the disc drive-based PS5 and the Xbox Series X, though, they’re in a dead heat. 

The next step is to consider the Game Pass library versus Sony’s exclusives and the future of PlayStation Plus. Xbox Game Pass costs $15 per month, or $180 per year. PlayStation Plus Extra will cost the same monthly rate but only costs $100 per year if you pay annually. PlayStation Plus Premium will cost $17 per month, or $120 per year if you pay annually. That’s a significant saving, but it doesn’t factor in that you may wind up buying PlayStation exclusives if you want to play them when they come out.

There are many intangibles that we can’t predict for you when considering Xbox Series X versus PS5—how excited you’ll be for specific exclusives, how disciplined you are about waiting to buy games on sale, or how much money you might save by trading physical copies of games in when you’re done with them. And, of course, your budget.

Some final thoughts on the Xbox Series X vs. PS5

Xbox Series X vs PS5
The Xbox Series X and PS5 are both amazing consoles, but one may suit your needs more than the other. Mike Epstein

The PS5 and the Xbox Series X offer very similar technical specifications, so the choice is more about the lifestyles that Sony and Microsoft purport to offer through their latest consoles. If you want to prioritize a string of blockbuster single-player games, then you may want to consider the PlayStation 5. If you’re looking for accessibility, tons of games, and the most bang for your buck, then the Xbox Series X is the best choice.

The post Xbox Series X vs. PS5: How to pick between the two biggest new game consoles appeared first on Popular Science.

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The best Nintendo Switch accessories of 2023 https://www.popsci.com/reviews/best-switch-accessories/ Wed, 22 Sep 2021 17:30:00 +0000 https://www.popsci.com/?p=397384
The Best Nintendo Switch Accessories
Brandt Ranj / Popular Science

The best Switch accessories smooth out your entry through Nintendo's gateway to excellent gaming.

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The Best Nintendo Switch Accessories
Brandt Ranj / Popular Science

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Best controller nintendo switch pro controller best switch accessories Nintendo Switch Pro Controller
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An ergonomic model with comfortable and responsive buttons and sticks.

Best case orzly nintendo switch carrying case is our pick for the best switch accessories. Orlzly Carry Case Compatible with Nintendo Switch
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This lightweight case comes in nine colors.

Best charging station powera joycon dock best switch accessories PowerA Joy-Con & Pro Controller Charging Dock
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The Pro Controller charges quickly using a USB dongle, and it indicates the current level of charge at a glance.

Here, there, everywhere: The Nintendo Switch is a gaming machine for every person and every place, and a few key accessories will make it even better. The console is portable or it can be connected to your TV. A new Switch has two Joy-Con controllers that can connect to its screen, function as a combo controller, or act as individual controllers. That’s everything you’ll ever need, right? Sorry to say but, as we’ve learned for decades at this point, there’s always innovation in the video game console accessory space. From extra controllers to screen protectors, cases to grips, you can easily trick out your Nintendo Switch with the best Switch accessories and enjoy it just that much more—and often for a bargain price to boot.

How we select the best Nintendo Switch accessories

I’m a big gamer and have logged hundreds of hours on the Nintendo Switch (or Nintendo Switch OLED). To deliver a list you can trust, I combined that “hands-on research” with suggestions from in-house reviewers and critical consensus. Every one of these accessories comes highly recommended by multiple gamers or outlets, and the vast majority have spent some amount of time in my hot little hands.

The best Nintendo Switch accessories: Reviews & Recommendations

The below options are, as of now, the best Nintendo accessories in each category, but there are a lot of solid products that come close. As always, it’s best to look at these products in a store before purchasing them, just to see in person if the aesthetic or design fits you before you commit to it.

Best controller: Nintendo Switch Pro Controller

Nintendo

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Why it made the cut: Every feature you want in an ergonomic form factor with the reliability and performance that can only be guaranteed by a first-party product, Nintendo’s premium wireless controller gets everything right, from the weight to the springiness of the shoulder buttons.

Specs

  • Nintendo Switch models: Nintendo Switch, Nintendo Switch OLED, Nintendo Switch Lite
  • Accessory category: Controller
  • Price: $69.99 at time of writing

Pros

  • Great layout
  • A responsive directional pad
  • Every needed feature included

Cons

  • More expensive than third-party controllers
  • Very few color choices

When it comes to an extra controller, you want two things: feel and performance. Nintendo’s Switch Pro Controller delivers both. Extremely well-fitted for most adult hands, the Pro Controller has just the right weight, comfortable and responsive buttons and sticks, and plenty of bells and whistles. Want to use motion controls like you could with the Joy-Cons? Check. Want to scan the chips in your Amiibo figures, unlocking bonuses in some of your games? Check. Want the buzzes and jolts that come from rumble feedback? Check. The battery life on the Pro Controller is impressive, too, outperforming both the PS4’s DualShock4 and the Xbox One’s Wireless Controller. The only drawback of the Pro Controller is that, as a first-party Nintendo product, it rarely goes on sale. If you want one (and I think you do want one), you must plunk down $60 to $70 most of the time. While that’s more than most other options, it’s worth every penny. There’s no better general option for the best switch controller than Nintendo’s own Switch Pro Controller. It’s a joy to use. 

Best stand: Hori Compact Playstand

Hori

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Why it made the cut: Nearly every Switch stand used a similar design, but Hori’s contribution has superior construction quality, with thicker plastic, rubber grips, and the best spacing to make it easy to access the Switch screen’s bottom charging port.

Specs

  • Nintendo Switch models: Nintendo Switch, Nintendo Switch OLED, Nintendo Switch Lite
  • Accessory category: Ergonomics
  • Price: $12.99 at time of writing

Pros

  • Lots of designs to choose from
  • Solid construction
  • Good spacing

Cons

  • Is still just an angled piece of plastic
  • No built-in charging capabilities

Some Switch stands try to be a replacement dock, but what you really want from the best switch stand is a better tabletop mode. The standard switch comes with a tiny kickstand on the back so the screen can be placed on a flat surface and the Joy-Cons can be removed for some small-screen local multiplayer. The Hori Compact Playstand improves that experience by elevating the Switch screen so that the USB port at the bottom of the Switch that charges the unit can be accessed, increases the possible screen angles to three, and creates a much more stable base than the single, thin kickstand that is built in. Additionally, the Compact Playstand can be folded flat for easy transport with your Switch in a backpack or shoulder bag. Especially useful for vacations, when you may want to pack light and forgo the dock and HDMI cables, the Compact Playstand makes the prospect of tabletop play a little more enjoyable.

Best screen protector: amFIlm Tempered Glass

amFilm

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Why it made the cut: Piece of mind for only a few dollars, the amFilm Tempered Glass Screen Protector protects perfectly without much noticeable change to the surface of the Switch’s screen.

Specs

  • Nintendo Switch models: Nintendo Switch
  • Accessory category: Durability
  • Price: $7.39 at time of writing

Pros

  • Extremely clear
  • Very strong
  • 99.9-percent transparency
  • Scratch- and smudge-resistant
  • Comes with wet wipes, a microfiber cleaning cloth, squeeze card, hinge stickers, and an installation guide

Cons

  • Requires a bit of dexterity to get to apply perfectly
  • Can change the reflective quality of the screen

The Switch is well-made but hardly damage-proof, and the screen is often the first victim of a regrettable incident. The amFilm Tempered Glass Screen Protector is resistant to scratches, smudges, and even liquids without greatly affecting the touchscreen properties of the Switch’s screen. It is thin enough that the Switch still easily slides into its dock or carrying case. Unfortunately, the screen protector does increase reflections off the Switch’s screen, which can make playing in sunlight a little bit more difficult, but the trade-off is worth it. Installation and maintenance are relatively easy and a standard pack comes with two protectors, so if you happen to damage the screen protector at some point or the adhesive starts to come off (which will happen eventually), you don’t need to buy another one. Additionally, you get some installation and cleaning supplies, including wipes and a microfiber cleaning cloth, plus a “squeeze card” to remove any air bubbles that get trapped between the Switch screen and the protector. Make sure you buy the correct size for your Switch, however, as the base Switch and Switch Lite (click on our guide to learn which Nintendo Switch console you should buy) have different dimensions for the screen.

Best case: Orlzly Carry Case Compatible with Nintendo Switch

Orzly

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Why it made the cut: A sleek black clutch, the Orlzly Carry Case is a slim-profile case that still manages to hold everything you need to game on the go, making it the best Nintendo Switch case.

Specs

  • Nintendo Switch models: Nintendo Switch, Nintendo Switch OLED, Nintendo Switch Lite
  • Accessory category: Travel
  • Price: $23.91 at time of writing

Pros

  • Slim profile
  • Good outer protection
  • Snug fit with room for accessories and games

Cons

  • Cannot house a pro controller or other larger accessories
  • No buffer for Joy-Con analog sticks

Switch carrying cases have all found a pretty universal design. Still, Orzly manages to outperform other very similar-looking cases with its superior materials, solid price point, and appropriate amount of space while maintaining a slim profile. The nine color choices mean you can find a case that fits your personal aesthetic. Weighing only about half a pound, the Carry Case compacts a lot of loose items into something much more manageable. However, you may want to be careful about arranging items in the upper pocket, as overstuffing it could result in the Joy-Con analog sticks having pressure put on them while in the case, which could cause some damage. Also, keep in mind that this product is not sized for the Switch Lite. Instead, Orzly offers a different version for that model of the Nintendo Switch.

Best memory card: SanDisk microSDXC Card Fortnite Edition

SanDisk

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Why it made the cut: Most microSDXC cards will do the job, but only SanDisk does it with such style and guaranteed compatibility.

Specs

  • Nintendo Switch models: Nintendo Switch, Nintendo Switch OLED, Nintendo Switch Lite
  • Accessory category: Storage
  • Price: $20.10 at time of writing

Pros

  • Available in four sizes
  • Cute design
  • Available in 128GB, 256GB, and 512GB
  • Cute official Nintendo iconography
  • Fully compatible with all versions of the Switch console

Cons

  • More expensive than no-name brands

What SanDisk offers in the microSD card space is a little bit of flair and a fully licensed product. Featuring a “Fortnite” Skull on the black 128GB card, a Fortnite Cuddle Team Leader on the yellow 256GB card, and an “Animal Crossing” leaf on the green 512GB card, these SanDisk microSDXC cards are very cute. Compatibility is guaranteed, and the cards slot easily into the Switch’s card port. As for size, your needs will come down to whether or not you plan to go all-in on digital games and if you plan to want to be able to play a lot of games concurrently. The 128GB card is more than enough for the occasional digital-only game if you plan to play all of the big titles off of gamecards, while the 256GB card is good for those who don’t need access to a bunch of games at the same time but want to go mostly digital. And 512GB is for the voracious player who wants dozens of games installed simultaneously.

Best grip: Satisfye ZenGrip Pro

Satisfye

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Why it made the cut: An elegant solution to a big (hands) problem, the Satisfye ZenGrip Pro replicates the feeling of a larger controller on the small Switch Joy-Cons when in handheld mode.

Specs

  • Nintendo Switch models: Nintendo Switch, Nintendo Switch OLED
  • Accessory category: Grip
  • Price: $44.99 at time of writing

Pros

  • Feels great in the hands
  • Thumbstick caps are less slippery and improve click-ability
  • Anti-scratch silicone tabs
  • Asymmetrical design to reduce fatigue
  • Thumbstick caps included

Cons

  • Must be removed to put a Switch in a standard carrying case

One of the biggest complaints by adults using the Nintendo Switch is how cramped their hands can feel while playing in handheld mode. Satisfye ZenGrip Pro, the best Switch grip, spaces out your hands more naturally while giving a solid nub for your fingers to grasp, resulting in a superior handheld experience. The grip is solidly constructed and uses silicon tabs to cradle the Switch, resulting in less surface contact while maintaining snugness and avoiding scratches on the Switch’s body. The included thumbstick caps have a much more tactile rubber feel to them, making the analog sticks easier to roll and click. As with most grip products, you must remove the ZenGrip Pro to dock the Switch. And if you have a standard Switch carrying case, the ZenGrip Pro will not fit into it, though Satisfye does offer a specifically designed carrying case if you want to keep your Switch in it in handheld mode at all times. The ZenGrip Pro began as a project on Kickstarter and Indiegogo and has become a pretty big success largely on the back of support by the Switch community, which puts it over the top in terms of our recommendation for best Switch accessories.

Best charging station: PowerA Joy-Con & Pro Controller Charging Dock

PowerA

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Why it made the cut: A bit of overkill for many players, invaluable for others, the PowerA Controller Charging Base for Nintendo Switch is the best Switch charging station if you tend to host game night and need to keep all your devices powered at all times.

Specs

  • Nintendo Switch models: Nintendo Switch, Nintendo Switch OLED
  • Accessory category: Charging
  • Price: $29.88 at time of writing

Pros

  • Compact, attractive
  • Works both as a set of Joy-Cons and pro controller
  • Includes portable charge block for pro controller

Cons:

  • A bit weighty
  • Still tethered by USB

If you took our advice above and bought a Nintendo Switch Pro Controller, the default charging method is to connect it to the Switch Dock with an included USB-to-USB-C cable. Suppose your preferred seat is far from your dock, or you simply want something a little cooler looking to display your controllers on while they charge. In that case, the PowerA Controller Charging Base for Nintendo Switch offers additional benefits over the Switch’s dock. A USB dongle that attaches to the Pro Controller allows some quick charging while playing and also serves as an indicator of the Pro Controller’s current level of charge (which you typically would have to check in the controller menu on the home screen). The dock is powered by a USB plug, so assuming you have an adapter, you can plug it into the outlet nearest your gaming seat. The charging station helps keep your extra controllers together and organized as well. While a bit of a luxury, the PowerA Controller Charging Base for Nintendo Switch is still quite useful.

Best battery pack: Anker 733

Anker

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Why it made the cut: Anker’s 733 is a high-capacity battery pack that doubles as a fast charger for your Nintendo Switch and other tech accessory.

Specs

  • Nintendo Switch models: Nintendo Switch, Nintendo Switch OLED, Nintendo Switch Lite
  • Accessory category: Charging
  • Price: $69.99 at time of writing

Pros

  • Two-in-one design
  • High-capacity battery pack
  • Multi-device charging

Cons

  • Price

The Nintendo Switch has a USB-C port, so you can extend its life by plugging it into an external power bank. This is very handy if you’re traveling and won’t be near an outlet for long stretches of time. Our go-to battery pack recommendation for the Nintendo Switch is Anker’s 733. The 10,000mAh power bank can extend the life of your Switch by several hours and has three USB ports so that you can top up other devices at the same time. The 733’s biggest strength is that it can also be plugged directly into an outlet as a multi-device power adapter. Both of the 733’s USB-C ports can output up to 65W of power when it’s used as a power adapter, which makes it ideal for the Nintendo Switch and most 13-inch laptops.

This multi-functionality does add to both the 733’s bulk and price, but those small tradeoffs are totally worthwhile. The ability to take a single accessory to charge all your devices, whether you’re home or on the go, is indispensable. If you mostly play the Nintendo Switch in handheld mode and like to crank its screen brightness to compete with the sun or other powerful light sources, Anker’s 733 is essential. This is one of the only multi-use Nintendo Switch accessories we feel comfortable recommending because it excels at both of its functions.

Best graphics upscaler: Marseille mClassic

Marseille

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Why it made the cut: Marseille’s mClassic can upscale your Nintendo Switch to make games look better on a 4K TV.

Specs

  • Nintendo Switch models: Nintendo Switch, Nintendo Switch OLED
  • Accessory category: Graphical enhancement
  • Price: $99.99 at time of writing

Pros

  • Can improve the look of some Nintendo Switch games
  • Doesn’t introduce latency
  • Unobtrusive

Cons

  • Effect not as noticeable in some games

Rumors of a next-generation Switch have swirled around for years, but Nintendo has shown no signs of releasing updated hardware. That said, Marseille has a solution if you’re disappointed by how newer games look on a 4K TV. The company’s mClassic is an accessory that plugs into the HDMI port on your dock and up-converts the console’s video signal before it reaches your TV. The results vary from game to game, but some titles will look appreciably better when the mClassic is used. To be clear, this accessory isn’t going to turn your Nintendo Switch into an Xbox Series X—it’s modifying the video signal coming from your console, not acting as a better graphics card. The mClassic won’t improve a game’s frame rate either. It’s best to think of Marseille’s mClassic as a way to enhance the look of your favorite games on your preferred console and make the wait for totally new hardware a little less annoying.

Best dock: Rocketfish TV Dock Kit For Nintendo Switch

Rocketfish

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Why it made the cut: This Nintendo Switch dock from Rocketfish makes it easy to connect your console to a television in another location without messing up your main gaming setup

Specs

  • Nintendo Switch models: Nintendo Switch, Nintendo Switch OLED
  • Accessory category: Charging
  • Price: $49.99 at time of writing

Pros

  • Compact design
  • USB-A port for charging
  • Compatible with all systems that support docked and handheld play

Cons

  • Third-party docks can be finicky

The Nintendo Switch’s namesake feature is the ability to use it as a handheld gaming system and hook it up to a TV using a dock. Nintendo’s first-party docks are hard to find, which is why we recommend this solution from Rocketfish. It has the same functionality—including a USB-A port, which can be used to charge other devices—in a much smaller form factor than Nintendo’s official accessory. If you’re taking your Nintendo Switch over to a friend’s house, and don’t want to unplug your Switch dock from your TV, this is a great solution. It’s also a smart buy if you travel often and want to play your Nintendo console on the big screen. Some third-party docks are a little temperamental—you may have to connect and disconnect your console from the dock a couple of times for it to work properly—but this isn’t a huge deal.

What to consider when picking the best Nintendo Switch accessories

The Switch isn’t the most expensive video game machine on the market, as it’s anywhere from 60% to 80% of the cost of the powerfully monolithic Xbox Series X and PlayStation 5. However, it’s also not exactly cheap and is designed for on-the-go use, the Nintendo Switch can end up experiencing a surprising amount of abuse, especially when compared to those home entertainment center-bound consoles. System protection is one of the most important things to think about if you’re prone to taking your Switch on public transit, road trips, or on vacation with you. Like a cellphone, you’ll want to protect your Switch’s screen. Nothing is more frustrating than playing a great game with an ever-present scratch staring you in the face. You’ll also likely want to invest in a carrying case.

While the Switch’s main body with Joy-Con controllers attached could easily slip into a backpack, shoulder bag, or oversized pocket, the analog sticks on the Joy-Cons could easily snag on something in transit, which could contribute to early Joy-Con drift onset, which makes your control less precise and in some cases forces you to replace the Joy-Cons entirely. Also, while the Switch’s body is pretty durable, you still want something to help absorb the inevitable shocks of travel. Lastly, suppose you’re like me and still prefer buying physical games whenever possible (unlike digital, you can sell them to recoup some of their cost when you’re done playing). In that case, you’ll want something designed to carry all those extra tiny game cards to avoid a $60 loss of something about the size of your thumbnail.

Do I need extra controllers?

First, ask yourself if you play multiplayer games with friends offline. If you do, you absolutely need at least two extra Nintendo Switch controllers. A huge number of multiplayer Switch games are specifically designed for up to four players to play simultaneously on one screen, including Mario Kart 8 Deluxe, Super Smash Bros. Ultimate, and Super Mario Party. Many of the best multiplayer games, especially those designed by Nintendo themselves, allow a set of Joy-Cons to be used as two separate controllers, which is why only two more are needed.

If you tend to prefer single-player games and spend any time whatsoever in front of the TV with your Switch, I would still recommend buying an extra pro-style controller. It can make the best Nintendo Switch games even better. These controllers resemble the Xbox and PS5 controllers and are simply more ergonomic, precise, and durable than the Joy-Cons. Especially for shooter games like Splatoon 2 or Fortnite, which require more precise inputs with quicker reactions, a pro-style controller can drastically improve your results within games. Perennial action-adventure favorites The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild and Super Mario Odyssey also greatly benefit from the increased precision. While we do offer the overall best controller available in this rundown, you can also check out our assessment of some other great controllers.

What are the best companies when it comes to Switch accessories?

While some of the best items come from companies that don’t produce a lot of accessories, some specialize in accessory design and production and can often be relied on for a quality product, even if it didn’t make our list. Nintendo makes only a select few accessories for the Switch, and they tend to be pricier than third-party choices, but the quality is almost always there. Hori—which produces many accessories for the U.S., European, and Japanese market—also has several standout items. Mad Catz is a well-known accessory manufacturer (now based in Hong Kong) whose products are also available in international markets. However, they tend to favor flashier design over unquestionable quality. Avoid, however, a lot of unknown brands out of mainland Asia and also skip a lot of the “premium” brands. The former tend to be cheap but have low reliability while the latter often end up charging for the name on the side of the product more than innovation or quality.

FAQs

Q: What accessories do you need with the Switch?

Need is a loaded term but, of all the items in our rundown, we recommend the Pro Controller the most. It simply improves the play experience tremendously when you play in TV mode. It may be one of the most comfortable controllers ever designed, with a weight and shape that seems very natural to use, and any game requiring precise controls will improve with its use.

Q: Does a screen protector hide scratches on Nintendo Switch?

Screen protectors are meant to prevent scratches rather than hide them, so existing scratches won’t magically disappear once you apply a screen protector. However, it will help them not to become larger and may reduce their reflection, making them seem less noticeable from certain angles of light.

Q: How do I make my Nintendo Switch stand out?

A number of the Switch accessories mentioned here come in multiple colors or with branded characters available on them, and these graphic variations are a great way to customize your Switch. Additionally, there are various silicone rubber wraparound cases for both the standard Switch and the Switch Lite that can change the color of your entire system or put specific characters on it. These tend to be less effective as protection, though. There are even thumbstick caps with different designs on them that are meant to be purely aesthetic.

Q: Do I need a Switch case for all accessories?

No, you won’t need a case for all your Nintendo Switch accessories. However, many Nintendo Switch cases have slots for physical game cards and memory cards, which can make it more convenient to take your entire game library when traveling.

Q: Is it OK to leave the OLED Switch docked?

Yes. You can leave any model of the Nintendo Switch in docked mode for its entire lifespan with no ill effects. Similarly, you can use your Nintendo Switch in handheld mode 100% of the time without running into problems.

Q: How can I prolong a Nintendo Switch’s lifespan?

You can maximize your Nintendo Switch’s longevity by taking good care of it. Carrying it in a case while traveling and making sure it doesn’t get dropped onto hard surfaces are key. Nintendo has done a good job keeping the Nintendo Switch’s software stable, so if you’re mindful of the hardware it should last a very long time.

Final words on the best Nintendo Switch accessories

Despite all the awesome choices Nintendo made, there’s still space to improve your Switch. A Pro Controller is a no-brainer, but the rest of the Switch accessories will likely depend on your play tendencies and personal desires. Each of the options above adds something, but that something may not be necessary to you. That’s fine! Maybe the Switch fits your hands, maybe you prefer to charge your controllers directly into the Switch’s dock. Accessories are supplemental by nature but, when you find the right ones, you may wonder how you ever lived without them.

Why trust us

Popular Science started writing about technology more than 150 years ago. There was no such thing as “gadget writing” when we published our first issue in 1872, but if there was, our mission to demystify the world of innovation for everyday readers means we would have been all over it. Here in the present, PopSci is fully committed to helping readers navigate the increasingly intimidating array of devices on the market right now.

Our writers and editors have combined decades of experience covering and reviewing consumer electronics. We each have our own obsessive specialties—from high-end audio to video games to cameras and beyond—but when we’re reviewing devices outside of our immediate wheelhouses, we do our best to seek out trustworthy voices and opinions to help guide people to the very best recommendations. We know we don’t know everything, but we’re excited to live through the analysis paralysis that internet shopping can spur so readers don’t have to.

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The best Xbox One controllers of 2023 https://www.popsci.com/reviews/best-xbox-one-controllers/ Fri, 24 Sep 2021 23:00:00 +0000 https://www.popsci.com/?p=398341
Best Xbox One Controllers
Brandt Ranj / Popular Science

Xbox One gamers who want the edge over other players should use these controllers, which have all the buttons fit to press.

The post The best Xbox One controllers of 2023 appeared first on Popular Science.

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Best Xbox One Controllers
Brandt Ranj / Popular Science

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Best Overall The Xbox Elite Series 2 is the Best Xbox One Controller. Xbox Elite Series 2
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Microsoft’s second Xbox Elite Wireless Controller is an upgrade in almost every conceivable way.

Best wired The Wolverine V2 Chroma is the best Xbox One Controller. Razer Wolverine V2 Chroma
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Razer’s newest revision of the wired Wolverine controller has advanced Chroma RGB light strips, as well as faster actuation and response times.

Best Budget The PowerA Enhanced controller is the best Xbox One Controller. PowerA Enhanced Wired Controller
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PowerA’s Enhanced Wired Controller is an affordable, reliable option that’s great for any gamer.

Xbox One players have a lot of choices when picking the best controller for playing the latest games. Microsoft’s next-generation consoles—the Xbox Series X and Xbox Series S—are also available, so every controller we recommend will work with all three systems. Upgrading to a better controller for the Xbox One today—or picking up a second one for multiplayer games—is still a wise investment, even if you stick with your current system for several more years. As long as it’s one of the best Xbox One controllers, you should be good.

How we chose the best Xbox One controllers 

To choose the best Xbox One controllers, I channeled my years of research and experience writing about video games. Each of these controllers comes highly recommended by various play-testers, reviews from other publications, and my own testing. Also, should you ever upgrade to the Series S or Series X, these are the best controllers for those platforms as well.

And there are a lot of choices out there. The original “core” Xbox gamepad is great, but there’s a whole world of premium controllers with special features and budget options for players who want something cheap to put in a friend’s hands. Regardless of what you’re looking for, picking the best Xbox One controller for your specific needs can be a lot of work. Luckily, we’ve played a lot of video games with a lot of controllers, so we have some ideas about what you should pick up.

The best Xbox One controllers: Reviews & Recommendations

Our picks for the best Xbox One controllers range in price and have different features, but they all have something to offer. Whether you want something inexpensive, something more accessible, or just like crazy, cool RGB lighting, we’ve got you.

Best overall: Xbox Elite Series 2

Brandt Ranj / Popular Science

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Why it made the cut: Microsoft’s second Xbox Elite Wireless Controller is an upgrade in almost every conceivable way, making this controller the best wireless Xbox One controller. 

Specs

  • Estimated battery life: 40 hours
  • Notable features: Haptic feedback, Impulse Triggers, rumble motors, adjustable and swappable thumbsticks, assignable buttons, rear paddles, dual analog sticks
  • Connections: Wireless, USB-C wired
  • Colors: Black
  • Weight: 12.2oz

Pros

  • Tons of customization options
  • Sturdy and stylish 
  • Long-lasting battery life  

Cons

  • Expensive

Microsoft went all out when it sought to reimagine its high-end Xbox Elite controller. Building on the core Xbox One controller, the Xbox Elite Series 2 features a host of augments and upgrades, including customizable buttons and swappable D-pads, to a wireless charging dock.

Do these extra features make a demonstrable difference? Yes. The controller feels premium in the hand, and while the extra weight is noticeable, it never made the Elite Series 2 unpleasant to hold. Its subtle features, like the way buttons and triggers feel when they’re pushed or the smoothness of the joysticks as they’re moved around and twisted, are easy to appreciate. The biggest technical differences between the Elite Series 2 and a standard Xbox One controller are its back triggers, which can be mapped to any of the controller’s face buttons for easy access, and a circular, paddle-style directional pad below the left joystick.

In our tests, the paddle-style directional pad didn’t make a big difference in how we played games, but the triggers were helpful game-by-game. The utility of these triggers will depend on how you hold the Elite Series 2 and whether you play games where it’s advantageous to keep your thumbs on its joysticks at all times. Typically, your right thumb would have to operate the face buttons (A,B,X,Y) and right joystick depending on what’s happening on screen, which can get tedious. If you take time to retrain your muscle memory, you may find yourself in an advantageous position compared to players using a different controller.

Simply put, the Xbox Elite Series 2 is the best Xbox One controller on the market now. Period. That level of quality translates to a high price tag, though. It’s also been difficult to find, lately, just like the consoles themselves. You’ve got to pay a lofty price for greatness, but this is the best gift you can give yourself as an Xbox player.

Best wired: Razer Wolverine V2 Chroma

Razer

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Why it made the cut: Razer’s newest revision of the wired Wolverine controller has advanced Chroma RGB light strips, as well as faster actuation and response times.

Specs

  • Estimated battery life: N/A
  • Notable features: Haptic feedback, Hair Trigger mode, rumble motors, adjustable and swappable thumbsticks, assignable buttons, rear paddles, dual analog sticks, Razer Chroma RGB lighting
  • Connections: USB-C wired
  • Colors: Black
  • Weight: 9.5oz

Pros

  • Customizable buttons and analog sticks
  • Razer Chroma RGB lighting
  • Excellent grip profile

Cons

  • Wired connection only
  • Expensive

Razer’s Wolverine V2 Chroma is a fantastic wired counterpart to the Series 2 Elite controller. With additional customization options and features, it’s a luxury controller for players willing to pay for something special. Only, in this case, that specialty includes wired performance. The V2 Chroma is Razer’s third Wolverine. It looks similar to the original V2 but with customizable RGB piping, which launched in 2020, and its six multi-function buttons evoke the original Wolverine Ultimate, which came out nearly 10 years ago. It also has many features found on the Elite Series 2, including trigger locks and a swappable D-pad. All in all, it’s just as expensive as the Elite controller series and just as enticing for discerning players, which is why this controller is our pick for best wired Xbox One controller.

Best audio-centric: Turtle Beach Recon Xbox Controller

Turtle Beach

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Why it made the cut: Turtle Beach’s first controller brings a slew of headset-focused features for players who pair it with a wired headset.

Specs

  • Estimated battery life: N/A
  • Notable features: Haptic feedback, Hair Trigger mode, rumble motors, adjustable and swappable thumbsticks, assignable buttons, rear paddles, dual analog sticks, Razer Chroma RGB lighting
  • Connections: USB-A wired
  • Colors: Black
  • Weight: 10.6oz

Pros

  • Superhuman Hearing and audio controls
  • Ergonomic cooling grips
  • Rear quick-action buttons

Cons

  • Wired connection only
  • Audio features only work with analog headsets

The Turtle Beach Recon Xbox One Controller is a solid wired alternative to the standard Xbox controller. In exchange for having to plug in, you get selectable user-profiles and rear quick-action buttons, among other upgrades. However, the Recon stands apart from other controllers because of its audio-focused features. For players who plug a headset into the Recon with a 3.5mm headphone jack, the Recon gives you access to onboard audio controls, audio presets to mix your sound, and Turtle Beach’s competitive Superhuman hearing feature, which makes it easier to hear gameplay-relevant sounds like footsteps. It’s the best audio-centric Xbox One controller and a very good option for players who want to optimize for competitive play without spending too much on a controller and/or headset.

Best wireless: Xbox Wireless Controller (2020)

Brandt Ranj / Popular Science

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Why it made the cut: The Xbox Wireless Controller is an affordable, reliable option that’s great for any gamer. 

Specs

  • Estimated battery life: 40 hours
  • Notable features: Rumble motors, dual analog sticks
  • Connections: Wireless, USB-C wired
  • Colors: Multiple
  • Weight: 9.9oz

Pros

  • Affordable and sturdy
  • Lengthy battery life
  • Multiple colors available

Cons

  • Fewer customization options than high-end alternatives

Do not underestimate the Xbox Wireless Controller. The standard Xbox gamepad is an affordable, sturdy, and versatile gamepad. This version, which comes with the Xbox Series X and Xbox Series S, is fully compatible with the Xbox One and features a very useful extra button. The “share” button right in the center lets you record a screenshot or video without accessing the Xbox menu.

This is the default Xbox controller for tens of millions of players, so, unsurprisingly, it performed very well during our gameplay tests. The Xbox “Core” controller is so good that we could easily have named it the best overall pick in this guide and dubbed the Elite Series 2 a premium option. The controller was always responsive, and its buttons, triggers, and joysticks felt fine. We’ve used this controller with an Xbox Series X for over two years, showing no sign of wear or degradation. One of this controller’s underrated (or at the very least underappreciated) features is how nice it feels in the hand. It’s lighter than its Elite sibling, and the plastic Microsoft used makes this controller easy to hold for multi-hour gaming sessions.

If you go for a second controller, the “core” controller, as it’s called sometimes, comes in a dizzying amount of colors and feels great in your hands, with buttons that feel good, hardy triggers, and a grippy surface that doesn’t get slick after lengthy gaming sessions. It may lack the bells and whistles of the other, more expensive controllers on this list, but it can handle anything you throw at it.

Most accessible: Xbox Adaptive Controller

Xbox

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Why it made the cut: Xbox’s Adaptive Controller is the only one of its kind, and it’s an absolute triumph for accessibility. 

Specs

  • Estimated battery life: 25 hours
  • Notable features: Multiple ports for accessible play, large face buttons
  • Connections: Wireless, USB-C wired, additional hookups for additional accessibility-focused peripherals
  • Colors: White
  • Weight: 19.5oz

Pros

  • Designed so anyone can play
  • Decent battery life for multipurpose controller
  • Dizzying amount of input options

Cons

  • Can be a bit confusing to set up

The Xbox Adaptive Controller offers a unique proposition among game controllers. Specifically created for gamers with limited mobility, the two-button slab is a hub for specialty peripherals that allow players who can’t hold and/or easily use a traditional gamepad. You can connect buttons, joysticks, mounts, and essentially anything that makes it easier for anyone to jump in and play. It also includes features such as Bluetooth, Xbox wireless support, USB connectivity, and a 3.5 mm jack. It may be a bit confusing to set up for the first time, depending on your needs, but it’s the only controller that does what it does. Its unique capabilities open up the world of video games to many gamers who wouldn’t be able to play otherwise, and that’s a very special thing.

Best budget: PowerA Enhanced Wired Controller

Brandt Ranj / Popular Science

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Why it made the cut: PowerA’s excellent peripheral pedigree means its latest wired Xbox controller is a great option at a low price point. 

Specs

  • Estimated battery life: N/A
  • Notable features: Dual rumble motors, mappable buttons, ergonomic design, textured diamond grip, dual analog sticks, headset dial, Share button
  • Connections: USB-C wired
  • Colors: Multiple
  • Weight: 7.2oz

Pros

  • Solid list of features
  • Affordable
  • Multiple colors available

Cons

  • Lacks customization found in higher-priced controllers

PowerA’s Enhanced Wired Controller is the best cheap Xbox One controller you can buy for less than the cost of a new Xbox Wireless Controller. It’s a solid wired option and adds some special features that the standard Xbox controller doesn’t have, including a pair of customizable rear buttons. There’s also a headset dial on board, so you can adjust the volume or mute the wired headset you choose to attach

The biggest benefits to using a wired game controller are never having to worry about latency (lag) or having to charge your device. Yes, using a wired controller brought back the classic memories of days spent tethered to 16 and 32-bit consoles of yesteryear, but it was nice to know our game wasn’t going to get interrupted by a “low battery” warning. Regarding responsiveness, PowerA’s Wireless Controller performed just as well as Microsoft’s first-party wireless controllers.

This is the lightest Xbox One controller we’re recommending—this is because there’s no heavy battery inside weighing it down—and while that didn’t make much of a difference to us, it could be the deciding factor if you’re optimizing your gaming experience for comfort. If you’re looking for an inexpensive Xbox One controller that works just as well as options that cost roughly double its price, PowerA’s Enhanced Wired Controller is the one to choose.

What to consider when buying the best Xbox One controllers

There are a surprisingly large number of things to consider when picking out a new Xbox One controller. There are obvious factors, like what types of games you’ll be playing and what kind of customization you’re looking to get out of your peripherals, but there are also smaller details, like the size of your hands. All these factors come into play when you’re seeking the perfect controller, so don’t be afraid to sweat the small stuff.

Cutting the cord

The standard Xbox controller is wireless, but that doesn’t mean everyone needs to have a wireless controller. In fact, there are still several great wired gamepads out there. In many cases, manufacturers make wired controllers to keep costs down. The cheapest controller will, inevitably, be wired only. That said, there are also wired controllers designed specifically for competitive players, who may be concerned about the potential input lag that inevitably creeps in with wireless controllers. Using a wired controller also eliminates the need to plug in a controller to charge between sessions or replace batteries.

In our experience, the difference in input lag between wireless controllers using Microsoft’s proprietary Xbox wireless connection and a wired controller is negligible, so most players should feel comfortable going wireless without issue. That said, don’t discount it automatically. Some of our favorite controllers are wired and worth picking up if you sit near your TV or monitor.

Button it up

All Xbox One controllers come with the same array of core buttons. However, many also feature customizable extra buttons or paddles, which you can map to create new button layouts. That means you can personalize your game in important ways, like changing the action button or assigning a different one to running or shooting. For some players, a custom control scheme can make a huge difference, or it may not be important at all. It all comes down to how much you like to personalize your experience.

Additional accommodations

Some gamers may need a controller with extra options to ensure they’re able to play their favorite titles without compromising. This might mean larger buttons or controllers that offer multiple inputs. Whatever your needs may be, there’s a controller that can help you settle in and enjoy the fantastical worlds you want to explore—or just up your body count as you move through the levels of your favorite first-person shooter. 

FAQs 

Q: Are third-party Xbox controllers worth buying?

Choosing a third-party controller doesn’t automatically mean “settling” or buying something cheap. In many cases, peripheral makers offer features Microsoft hasn’t added to its controllers, like Razer’s RGB lighting. Even among “budget” controllers, though, the bar for quality among controllers is as high as it’s ever been.

Q: Do I need any extra accessories for my Xbox controller?

You’ll want to ensure you have batteries on hand, as Microsoft’s standard wireless controller still needs two AA batteries for wireless play. Alternatively, you can also buy rechargeable batteries or an Xbox rechargeable battery kit so you can plug in and avoid generating e-waste.

Q: Are Xbox controllers hard to find in stores?

It depends on what you’re looking for. The standard Xbox Wireless Controller or less expensive options like PowerA are usually available at most retailers. You’re better off looking for specialized options like Razer’s Wolverine V2 Chroma and the Xbox Adaptive Controller online, as they can be much more difficult to find.

Q: How long do Xbox controllers last on average?

An Xbox controller will last several years before having to be replaced as long as it’s treated well. Playing video games with greasy fingers, dropping your controller on the ground, or leaving it uncharged (if wireless) for long stretches of time will impact its longevity.

Q: Can I use an Xbox One controller on Xbox 360?

Unfortunately, you cannot use an Xbox One controller with the Xbox 360.

Q: Can I connect Xbox controllers to PS4 or PS5?

Unfortunately, you cannot connect an Xbox One controller to a PlayStation.

Q: How much do Xbox controllers cost?

This depends on whether the controller is wired or wireless and whether it supports any unique features.

Q: Which other Xbox One accessories are worth it?

A controller is the most important accessory for any game console, but we have an entire guide dedicated to Xbox One and Xbox Series X accessories that are worth your time.

Final thoughts on the best Xbox One controllers

One of the best Xbox One controllers can go a long way toward maximizing the immersion of playing games on an Xbox (or a PC). Whether you’ve snagged an Xbox Series X or are still happily gaming on an Xbox One, there are options for everyone. There’s no reason to purchase an uncomfortable controller from a mystery brand with flimsy analog sticks, frustrating D-pads, or sweaty plastic. We’ve come a long way when it comes to controller technology, so you should never have to deal with those “Player 2” gamepads ever again.

Why trust us

Popular Science started writing about technology more than 150 years ago. There was no such thing as “gadget writing” when we published our first issue in 1872, but if there was, our mission to demystify the world of innovation for everyday readers means we would have been all over it. Here in the present, PopSci is fully committed to helping readers navigate the increasingly intimidating array of devices on the market right now.

Our writers and editors have combined decades of experience covering and reviewing consumer electronics. We each have our own obsessive specialties—from high-end audio to video games to cameras and beyond—but when we’re reviewing devices outside of our immediate wheelhouses, we do our best to seek out trustworthy voices and opinions to help guide people to the very best recommendations. We know we don’t know everything, but we’re excited to live through the analysis paralysis that internet shopping can spur so readers don’t have to.

The post The best Xbox One controllers of 2023 appeared first on Popular Science.

Articles may contain affiliate links which enable us to share in the revenue of any purchases made.

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The best surge protectors of 2023 https://www.popsci.com/story/reviews/best-surge-protector/ Sun, 10 Oct 2021 12:00:00 +0000 https://stg.popsci.com/uncategorized/best-surge-protector/
A lineup of the best surge protectors on a white background.
Amanda Reed

Your prized electronics deserve an extra level of safeguarding from electrical spikes. Here’s how to protect your tech.

The post The best surge protectors of 2023 appeared first on Popular Science.

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A lineup of the best surge protectors on a white background.
Amanda Reed

We may earn revenue from the products available on this page and participate in affiliate programs. Learn more ›

Best overall Kasa Smart HS300 Plug Power Strip Kasa Smart HS300 Plug Power Strip
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Smart connectivity makes takes this beyond protection.

Best for college dorm A black GE UltraPro 10-Outlet Surge Protector on a blue and white background GE UltraPro 10-Outlet Surge Protector
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Tons of outlets make it super versatile.

Best heavy-duty Tripp Lite Isobar 6 Tripp Lite Isobar 6
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A burly solution for professional users.

Finding a proper protector for your electronics ensures that they’ll remain guarded against potentially irreversible damage that comes from commonly occurring electrical spikes in building wiring and power grids. While any amount of protection is better than none, it’s important to consider what types of appliances you’ll be using to determine what type is best for your needs. For most common home appliances—like lamps—any standard surge protector should do the trick. For high-wattage appliances and critical electronic equipment like computers or stereos, however, a heavy-duty model may be more fitting. Whether you’re looking for a portable surge protector to use with your electronics while you’re on the go, or one for permanent use in a business or home, we’ve compared some of the best surge protectors currently available to help you make an informed decision.

How we chose the best surge protectors

The homes and offices of the PopSci writers and staff are loaded with gadgets, all of which require ample power to charge and operate. To find the right choice for you, we surveyed dozens of models with a mixture of online research and hands-on experience to hone in on the models that make the most sense for specific users. The entries on this list come from reputable brands that have demonstrated reliability, which is crucial when trusting pricy gear to their performance. We looked for a mixture of functionality, reliability, and design that would offer the piece of mind you’re paying for in the first place.

The best surge protectors: Reviews & Recommendations

Power surges are a normal and inconvenient part of life that frequently occur when utility companies switch electricity on and off again. Various electrical events—including lightning strikes, storms, and power cycling of large appliances like air conditioners—can also trigger them. By placing a surge protector between your electronics and the wall outlet, you can add a layer of safeguarding for your precious appliances to prevent them from getting fried. One of our choices is an invaluable accessory for your priceless setup.

Best overall: Kasa Smart HS300 Plug Power Strip

Kasa

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Why it made the cut: Smart functionality and built-in power monitoring make this the best power strip surge protector.

Specs

  • Protection: 1,710 joules
  • Outlets: 6
  • USB ports: 3

Pros

  • Smart home connectivity
  • Sleek design
  • Lots of outlets
  • Handy companion app

Cons

  • Pricey
  • Needs the app for full functionality

The Kasa HS300 is one of the best smart surge protectors on the market, offering 1,710 joules of surge protection in a sleek white finish and slim design that will be welcome in any office or home environment. It has many useful features onboard—including scheduling, remote control of devices, and power consumption monitoring—that are all accessible within the app. It’s compatible with Alexa, Google Home, and Microsoft Cortana for users who want to harness the voice control feature. And this unit also can work as a standalone product with no hub required.

The simple, familiar design makes this model easy to hide away under a desk or entertainment center. Three built-in USB ports add extra charging options, and the plug on the strip itself lays relatively flat to the wall so it won’t get smushed by your furniture and bent out of shape.

Best for college dorms: GE UltraPro 10-Outlet Surge Protector

Why it made the cut: With 10 outlets and two high-speed USB ports, this strip is a great option for a common room or other shared space. No one gets left out.

Specs

  • Protection: 3,000 joules
  • Outlets: 10
  • USB ports: 2

Pros

  • Tons of protection
  • Lots of sockets
  • Modern design

Cons

  • Bulky

The ubiquitous USB charging port is used to power everything from portable hard drives to cellphones, making it a popular outlet choice for inclusion on power strips and aftermarket wall outlets. Buying a surge protector with USB ports allows users to give their smartphones protection that traditional wall chargers and power strips don’t offer. It’s always nice to have peace of mind when charging a phone, and it ensures you won’t be stuck with a bricked device in the event of a power surge. These also eliminate the need for users to keep track of their wall chargers, which can often go missing, allowing them to plug straight into the surge protector. This is especially handy when you’re in a college dorm situation where multiple people may need access to charging capabilities, which is why it is our pick for the best surge protector for college dorms.

Users looking to charge numerous peripheral devices and enjoy the benefits of surge protection won’t have to skimp on normal three-pronged outlets with this GE UltraPro 10-Outlet Surge Protector. Its 10 grounded outlets and two USB ports offer 3,000 joules of surge protection to devices of all sorts in multiple plug orientations, making it a good option for shared spaces and desk areas with many devices to power. You can choose between 3-, 4-, and 6-foot cord lengths depending on the layout of your space. It’s the perfect model to put in a common room for shared use.

A pair of slotted holes on the back of the device makes it easy to mount to a desk or wall so that you can secure it down, and you won’t have to worry about someone walking off with it next time there’s a party or people come over.

Best heavy-duty: Tripp Lite Isobar 6

Tripp

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Why it made the cut: Its super-burly build and military-grade protection can power extremely demanding devices in challenging environments.

Specs

  • Protection: 3,330 joules
  • Outlets: 6
  • USB ports: 0

Pros

  • Super durable
  • Maximum protection
  • Meets high safety standards

Cons

  • Bulky
  • No USB

The Isobar from Tripp Lite is a convenient and robust surge protection unit from a power protection industry veteran. It features a six-foot AC power cable and six protected outlets mounted in isolated filter banks to reduce noise interaction between connected electronics. Three indicator LEDs show users the current protection status and whether there’s a problem with the electrical line. Tripp Lite also offers insurance for connected peripherals, making the Isobar one of the best heavy-duty surge protectors for workshops, garages, and industrial spaces.

The surge protection potential of consumer devices is measured in joules, a unit equivalent to one watt applied to an electrical system for one second. A surge protector with a higher joule rating can absorb more energy before failing, which translates to more robust and comprehensive surge protection for critical equipment. If you plan on protecting expensive or sensitive high-wattage electronic equipment like computers, air conditioners, stereo equipment, or power tools, opting for a heavy-duty surge protector with a joule rating of 3,000 or more is a must. That’s what makes the Isobar so appealing to commercial users.

The sturdy metal housing allows this burly surge protector to function properly in demanding environments, like workshops and studios, without potentially cracking or becoming damaged and jeopardizing your equipment in the process. As a bonus, it looks as burly as it is.

Best for TVs: APC Wall Outlet Plug Extender

APC

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Why it made the cut: Its flat form factor makes it easy to tuck behind an entertainment center or TV stand where it can keep many cords in order.

Specs

  • Protection: 1,080 joules
  • Outlets: 6
  • USB ports: 2

Pros

  • Flat profile makes it easy to hide
  • Well-spaced outlets
  • Powerful USB charging

Cons

  • Average protection levels
  • Dated design

The APC Wall Outlet Plug Extender is one of the best surge protectors for TVs—and space-saving, too. It can generously expand any standard wall outlet into six plugs and two USB ports and add 1,080 joules of surge protection while hardly adding any extra space. That makes it easy to hide behind your entertainment center. It uses your wall outlet’s existing screw hole to fit securely without the danger of coming loose as you unplug your electronics. It also features LED protection indicators to keep you apprised of its current status. At this price point, there’s no better option for super-compact and relatively high surge protection. Because you get six individual outlets, it can also run entertainment devices like streaming boxes or smart speakers. The USB ports add a nice touch if you want to charge your devices or a remote.

Best for office: Belkin Pivot Plug Surge Protector

Amanda Reed

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Why it made the cut: More than 4,000 joules of protection and 12 outlets means you have plenty of space for chargers, a printer, your desktop, and more.

Specs

  • Protection: 4,320 joules
  • Outlets: 12
  • USB ports: 0

Pros

  • Lots of outlets
  • Built-in cord management
  • Eight-foot power cord

Cons

  • No USB outlets
  • Bulky

If you work from home, you know how important desk and outlet placement are to your productivity. And if you’re working with a full home office set-up—printer, modem, desktop monitors—outlets can quickly become scarce. This Belkin Pivot-Plug Surge Protector has a long 8-foot cord and 12 outlets to accommodate all your tech. Eight of the 12 plugs pivot, meaning your charging blocks and plugs can coexist with plenty of personal space. Although it doesn’t have any USB outlets, you probably don’t want your cellphone around while you’re trying to work on that big quarterly report. There is even phone line protection for your office phone. And 4,320 joules of protection give you peace of mind as you work during a big storm. This surge protector means business—and you’ll be able to conduct yours easier when you’re not puzzling together plugs.

Best portable: Belkin 3-Outlet USB Surge Protector

Belkin

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Why it made the cut: When space is an issue, this pocket-sized power strip offers three outlets and two USB ports in a package the size of a candy bar.

Specs

  • Protection: 918 joules
  • Outlets: 3
  • USB ports: 2

Pros

  • Easily fits in a pocket
  • Fast-charging via USB
  • Won’t eat up a whole wall outlet

Cons

  • Only three outlets

Power strips, surge protectors, and other power distribution devices are best known for supplementing fixed workspaces and areas of the home. Still, power surges can affect your electronics anywhere and at any time. In some cases, power surges are more likely to affect your electronics while traveling than at home if you factor in the unfamiliarity of the local power grid and weather. For maximum protection of your sensitive devices wherever you go, get the best portable surge protector and enjoy the benefits of surge protection on the road.

Travelers who want extra peace of mind when using power outlets will appreciate the incredibly small form factor and 918-joule protection rating of this USB surge protector from Belkin. It comes in three variants rated for different levels of amperage depending on what peripherals you plan on plugging in. It uses a 360-degree rotating plug to maximize its compatibility with strange outlets in hotels, airports, and more. It’s flexible and simple to use, too, with two USB ports offering a combined 2.1 amps of charging power and an onboard protection status LED. It’s great on an RV or travel van because it doesn’t take up much space and won’t overdraw your vehicle’s system. Plus, if you want to take it inside a coffee shop or other spot where you may be spending some time, it’s easy to tote.

Best budget: GE 6-Outlet Surge Protector

Why it made the cut: This ultra-affordable strip is a great option when you just need basic protection, or you want to keep a spare unit on hand for emergencies.

Specs

  • Protection: 800 joules
  • Outlets: 6
  • USB ports: 0

Pros

  • Very cheap
  • Compact form factor
  • Rotating sockets

Cons

  • Limited protection
  • No USB

This six-outlet surge protector from GE packs an integrated surge protector and 800 joules of protection into a familiar body, making it one of the best cheap surge protectors for the money. Each of its outlets can be closed with a simple twist for extra safety, and wall outlet mounts on the rear allow users to mount it up and off the floor if needed. It has a three-foot power cord and standard plug and offers incredible value for the money, making it a good choice for shoppers on a budget or users looking to purchase in bulk.

The key function of a good surge protector is the preservation of your electronics, so it’s hard to compromise on price without a dip in quality. Still, by remaining aware of the joule rating of the surge protector and the wattage of the equipment you’re powering with it, you can accomplish an adequate level of protection at an affordable price point. The GE and similar models are best for stationary use in the home due to less durable casing materials and may not bear the bells and whistles of more expensive units. Still, as long as you’re not powering irreplaceable equipment or operating in a building with a known history of frequent and intense surges, they should do just fine. The GE model strikes the right balance between performance and reliability for basic jobs. You don’t always need maximum protection if you’re just trying to string some holiday lights or have a power strip on-hand for emergencies.

What to consider when buying the best surge protectors

Surge protectors are available in portable, bag-sized travel units as well as tough, metal-clad industrial forms and everywhere in between. Determining the best unit for your needs comes down to the level of protection you require according to the quality of the electric system from which you’re pulling power and the value of the equipment you’re looking to protect. Whether you’re enduring daily power spikes or just want reliable protection for some extra peace of mind, we’ve picked out a few of the top surge protectors on the market to help you give your electronics the protection they deserve.

Voice control

Voice control, smart home technology, and home automation are more commonplace and accessible than ever before. There are countless smart plug products on the market that allow users to integrate traditional appliances with a smart home system. The best smart surge protectors offer users this same convenient hands-free remote electronics control without sacrificing high-level protection from power surges in a single unit.

Most smart surge protectors offer compatibility with Alexa, Google Home, and other popular smart home systems, but many can function as standalone units. A local Wi-Fi network and a companion app are usually all it takes to get up and running, turning a smartphone into a universal remote for your electronics. Users who want to create automated lighting schedules or activate coffee makers, slow cookers, and other devices from afar will appreciate the convenience and safety that a smart surge protector provides. These may not be the most robust choice for heavy-duty applications, but they’re unparalleled for adding flexibility, protection, and voice control to commonplace household and office appliances.

USB ports

You don’t always have to find a charging brick when you want to plug in your phone or other portable devices. Some surge protectors have built-in USB connectivity, which allows you to charge extra devices without having to occupy one of the AC sockets. These can come in handy even when you might not expect it. For instance, USB ports can be handy for charging controllers if you have them on the surge protector in your home theater.

Outlet arrangement

If you’re going to be plugging in big power bricks, there’s a chance you might run into a traffic jam that prevents you from using all of your surge protector’s real estate. Try to visualize the plugs you need to accommodate and ensure there’s room for everything. Otherwise, you’ll be trying to daisy chain strips together, and that’s not good for anything.

FAQs

Q: How much does a surge protector cost?

A surge protector will cost you between $15-$80, depending on what features you’re looking for.

Q: What is Type 1, Type 2, and Type 3 surge protection?

The most common form of surge protection offered by consumer products is Type 3 surge protection, which is used in parallel with consumer electronics at the load end of an outlet. Type 1 protection is a permanent installation that protects the whole electrical system from outside sources of surges, including lightning strikes and utility switching. In contrast, Type 2 protection is a permanent installation that protects from surges caused within a system, as in the case of air conditioners or other large appliances.

Q: How often should I replace my surge protector?

Surge protectors offer diminishing protection over time, but fortunately, the best surge protectors actively indicate whether your electronics are protected or not. As a rule of thumb, you can wait three to five years before replacing a surge protector, but users with frequent power issues—including lightning strikes, rolling blackouts, or brownouts—will have to replace their surge protectors more often.

Q: How many joules are in a good surge protector?

The best surge protectors can range anywhere from around 800 joules up to 4,000 joules and beyond. Determining which level of protection you need depends largely upon the value of the equipment you’re protecting as well as the known reliability of the electrical system that you’re using, but when in doubt, the more joules, the better.

Final thoughts on the best surge protectors

Surge protection doesn’t come standard in most buildings and power systems, so it’s crucial to ensure that your electronics are safeguarded from inevitable power spikes and blackouts with the best surge protector for your needs. Home users should turn to a smart surge protector for total control over their electronic ecosystem or a surge protector with USB ports for quick charging and protection of their irreplaceable devices. In contrast, commercial users who need robust protection should turn to a heavy-duty surge protector to keep their bases covered. Whether you’re powering a vacuum cleaner or a smartphone, every user of electronic equipment, big and small, should use a surge protector. Then you can rest assured that your devices are safe and sound the next time a blackout or power surge comes around.

Why trust us

Popular Science started writing about technology more than 150 years ago. There was no such thing as “gadget writing” when we published our first issue in 1872, but if there was, our mission to demystify the world of innovation for everyday readers means we would have been all over it. Here in the present, PopSci is fully committed to helping readers navigate the increasingly intimidating array of devices on the market right now.

Our writers and editors have combined decades of experience covering and reviewing consumer electronics. We each have our own obsessive specialties—from high-end audio to video games to cameras and beyond—but when we’re reviewing devices outside of our immediate wheelhouses, we do our best to seek out trustworthy voices and opinions to help guide people to the very best recommendations. We know we don’t know everything, but we’re excited to live through the analysis paralysis that internet shopping can spur so readers don’t have to.

The post The best surge protectors of 2023 appeared first on Popular Science.

Articles may contain affiliate links which enable us to share in the revenue of any purchases made.

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The best 4K monitors for gaming in 2023 https://www.popsci.com/gear/best-4k-monitors-for-gaming/ Fri, 10 Mar 2023 18:00:00 +0000 https://www.popsci.com/?p=518712
The best 4K gaming monitors
Brandt Ranj / Popular Science

Play the hottest games at their highest level of fidelity.

The post The best 4K monitors for gaming in 2023 appeared first on Popular Science.

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The best 4K gaming monitors
Brandt Ranj / Popular Science

We may earn revenue from the products available on this page and participate in affiliate programs. Learn more ›

Best Overall ViewSonic ELITE XG320U ViewSonic Elite XG320U
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Viewsonic’s monitor sits in the sweet spot between size, fidelity, overall performance, and price.

Best ultrawide Samsung Odyssey Neo G9 is the best premium monitor for CAD. Samsung Odyssey G9
SEE IT

Samsung’s Odyssey G9 will offer the most immersive 4K gaming experience—if you have the desk space.

Best budget BenQ is the best cheap gaming monitor. BenQ 32-inch 4K Monitor (EW3270U)
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BenQ’s EW3270U offers an incredible amount of value given its big size and great features.

PC gaming has always been a couple of steps ahead of what’s happening in the console space, and 4K monitors for gaming can help high-end titles live up to their full potential. The extra pixels—roughly quadruple what you’d get on an HD screen—will help you see titles released in the past few years in incredible detail. You’ll still need a gaming PC powerful enough to play games at high settings, but even new game consoles have started supporting native 4K gaming. The best 4K monitors for gaming will let you experience your catalog like never before without leaving your desk.

How we chose the best 4K monitors for gaming

The world of 4K gaming monitors is vast, but recognizing that resolution is the most important factor for you makes the search a lot easier. This guide pulls together many of the 4K monitors we’ve recommended in our other buying guides, in addition to some fresh picks to give you a good cross-section of what’s available right now. Drawing on our own personal experience with everything from gaming laptops to flagship consoles, combined with peer recommendations and extensive online research, we’ve narrowed down the options. Connectivity, screen size, refresh rate, and port selection heavily influenced our decisions. You should be able to use your 4K gaming monitor with a PC and PlayStation 5 without an adapter. The genre of game you play and whether an ultra-high frame rate is critical to your success were also factored in heavily.

The best 4K monitors for gaming: Reviews & Recommendations

Manufacturers release new 4K gaming monitors rapidly, so we organized our recommendations into categories to simplify your decision. If you value color reproduction, display size, or speed, you’ll know exactly which suits your needs best. We’re pleased to see the prices of 4K gaming monitors falling, with the lowest-cost option coming in at well under $400.

Best overall: ViewSonic Elite XG320U

ViewSonic

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Specs

  • Size: 32 inches
  • Refresh rate: 150Hz
  • Response time: 1ms
  • Ports: DisplayPort, HDMI 2.0, HDMI 2.1

Pros

  • Gorgeous picture
  • Accurate colors out of the box
  • High-performing at all resolutions
  • HDMI 2.1 compatible

Cons

  • Expensive

Pushing your PC rig budget to the limit? If so, Viewsonic’s Elite XG320U is a no-compromise 4K gaming monitor with incredible performance in a big, beautiful package. The 32-inch display has a 150Hz refresh rate and support for AMD’s FreeSync variable refresh rate tech so that games will run buttery smooth—especially on machines outfitted with an AMD graphics card. Colors will look vibrant and accurate because the XG320U’s panel supports HDR (high dynamic range), though they won’t be quite as vivid as they would be on the OLED option we recommend later.

Viewsonic packed the XG320U with ports, including DisplayPort, HDMI 2.0, and 2.1 inputs, which are required for 4K gaming at 120Hz. These video ports are complemented by USB-A and a USB-B port, which will turn this display into a hub for your other computer accessories. If you’re gaming on a laptop with only one USB-A port, the XG320U’s input selection will make your life a lot easier and clean up your desk clutter simultaneously. ViewSonic focused on visual fidelity, but it didn’t neglect practical ergonomics in that process. The XG320U supports tilt, swivel, and height adjustment, so you can comfortably use this 4K gaming monitor regardless of your height and the height of your desk. Spending nearly $1,000 on a display seems silly when you have to set it on a stack of books.

Our only knock against ViewSonic’s XG320U is its high price, which may put it out of reach if you’re on a more limited budget. That said, it’s worth its $899.99 price tag if you want to play the latest PC and console games without compromises.

Best curved: Gigabyte M32UC

Gigabyte

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Specs

  • Size: 31.5-inch 
  • Refresh rate: 160Hz
  • Response time: 1ms 
  • Ports: DisplayPort, HDMI 2.1 ports, USB-C port, USB-A ports

Pros

  • Large viewing area
  • Ultra fast refresh rate
  • Very wide port selection

Cons

  • Curved monitors aren’t for everyone

Curved 4K monitors are an acquired taste, but if you like the look of gaming on an angled panel, Gigabyte’s M32UC should be the first display you consider. The monitor maxes out at 160Hz, which most games released today won’t even be able to take advantage of. Getting the M32UC today will provide some future-proofing as games released in the next few years begin running at over 120FPS.

The other spec that caught our eye when considering the M32UC was its wide port selection. This is one of the few 4K gaming monitors with a USB-C port, which can connect to gaming laptops—and Macs—without an adapter. USB-C ports can carry power in addition to audio and video data, so a single cable can charge your gaming laptop while you play games. Gaming is a particularly resource-intensive task, so your portable machine probably won’t charge very quickly. However, this is a nice feature to have when you’re using your computer more casually.

If you’ve become a curved monitor convert, and want to use your computer primarily to play games in 4K, we can’t think of a better display than the M32UC.

Best ultrawide: Samsung Odyssey G9

Samsung

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Specs

  • Size: 49 inches
  • Refresh rate: 240Hz
  • Response time: 1ms
  • Display ports: DisplayPort, HDMI 2.0, HDMI 2.1

Pros

  • Beautiful ultrawide display
  • QLED panel
  • Unmatched refresh rate

Cons

  • Cost
  • Requires a lot of desk space

Okay, so technically, Samsung’s Odyssey G9 is also a curved monitor, and it’s not technically 4K, but let us explain. Ultrawide monitors are all curved because their extreme width is designed to take up all of your peripheral vision. Additionally, while this display has more horizontal pixels than any of the other 4K gaming monitors we’re recommending, it doesn’t have as many vertical lines of resolution. If it did, this would simply be a 49-inch TV.

Still, the technicalities here didn’t disqualify the Odyssey G9 because of its incredible features. This display has a refresh rate of 240Hz and support for both AMD FreeSync and Nvidia’s G-Sync. If your gaming PC has a high-end dedicated graphics card, the Odyssey G9 can take full advantage. Similarly, the G9’s QLED panel will make modern games look stunning thanks to its advanced color reproduction. Let’s put it this way: If your game looks bad, that’s the fault of either the game developers or another weak link in your PC gaming chain.

Samsung equipped the Odyssey G9 with a good selection of ports, opting to favor DisplayPorts over HDMI—a telltale sign this gaming monitor was designed for PC gamers first, alongside some USB ports. While this is one of the most expensive 4K gaming monitors we’re recommending, its most limiting factor is its extremely large size. You’ll need a wide gaming desk to comfortably fit the Odyssey G9, though you’ll be rewarded for allotting it that much space.

Best OLED: LG 27EP950-B

Specs

  • Size: 27 inches
  • Panel type: OLED
  • Refresh rate: 60Hz
  • Response time: 1ms
  • Display ports: DisplayPort, HDMI 2.0, HDMI 2.1

Pros

  • Incredible color reproduction and contrast
  • Wide port selection
  • Height-adjustable stand

Cons

  • Slow refresh rate
  • Cost

If you’re willing to give up some fidelity for the best-possible color reproduction and contrast, LG’s 27EP950-B is the 4K monitor to get for light to moderate gaming. Yes, its 60Hz refresh rate is an Achilles heel, but all will be forgiven when you start playing games on an OLED screen. This display technology leaves even the best LED and QLED panels in the dust, although it contributes heavily to the 27EP950-B’s high cost. This monitor is for video and photo editors who like to play games on the side. Don’t get us wrong, playing games on a high-fidelity 60Hz display can still look incredible. Many games have a 60FPS cap—especially on consoles—so you may not even miss the high refresh rates available on other displays.

Like Gigabyte’s M32UC, the 27EP950-B has a USB-C port, which can be used for data and power transfer. That input sits alongside a nice selection of DisplayPort, HDMI, and USB ports. If you want to connect accessories to your machine, you won’t encounter any issues. We’ve mentioned it before, but this 4K gaming monitor’s biggest strength is its OLED panel. This screen has been sitting at the high end of the TV market for several years now, but it’s just beginning its creep into the monitor space. Because it’s such a niche feature, the panel drives up the price of this display significantly, but if you’ve gotten used to the look of an OLED TV, you’ll know it’s hard to return to an LCD.

Best budget: BenQ EW3270U

BenQ

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Specs

  • Size: 32
  • Panel type: VA
  • Refresh rate: 60Hz
  • Response time: 1ms
  • Ports: 1 x DisplayPort 1.4; 2 x HDMI 2.0; 1 x USB Type-C

Pros

  • AMD FreeSync support
  • Built-in speakers
  • Price

Cons

  • 60Hz refresh rate

If cost is your concern, BenQ’s EW3270U is the 4K gaming monitor to get. Again, this is a 60Hz display, but in BenQ’s case, this actually leads to significant cost savings, as the EW3270U is roughly half the price of the second-least expensive monitor in our guide. This monitor is perfect for more casual gamers who want to play high-resolution console games or stick to role-playing and platforming games where there’s less of an emphasis on frame rate.

Refresh rate aside, there’s a lot to like about the EW3270U. It supports AMD’s FreeSync and has built-in speakers, which are a nice surprise for any monitor in this price range. BenQ didn’t skimp on its inputs either, as the EW3270U has a healthy array of ports—including our much-discussed USB-C port. The EW3270U is even height-adjustable, which proves BenQ cared as much about ergonomics as providing a decent gaming experience. On a similar note, this display actually has built-in blue light reduction technology—this will impact color reproduction and can be toggled on and off—which can make late-night gaming sessions easier on your body.

The availability of 4K gaming monitors under $500 is pretty slim, but of that group, BenQ’s EW3270U is an excellent choice. BenQ made the tough—but right—decisions on which features to compromise and focus on, and gamers who want to play their favorites in 4K are the beneficiaries.

What to look for when choosing the best gaming monitor

Size

Most 4K gaming monitors fall within the 27- to 32-inch size range, which is the sweet spot to accommodate desks of all sizes. Ultrawide monitors are the exception, which makes them a specialized case. Ironically, the larger the screen, the lower the pixel density, so a bigger 4K monitor will actually look (very slightly) worse than a smaller one. This isn’t a huge deal when buying a TV since you’re sitting several feet away, but the difference will be slightly more noticeable on a display about a foot away from your face.

Refresh rate

A monitor’s refresh rate determines how quickly it can display new information on its screen every second. This tech spec isn’t important in most applications. Still, it does matter when playing fast-paced games like first-person shooters, where every millisecond of latency (lag) gives your opponent—digital or real—a distinct advantage. A 4K gaming monitor’s refresh rate is only one piece of the puzzle, though, as you’ll be limited by the maximum frame rate the developers built into their game and the power of your PC.

Ports

This may not seem like an important tech spec, but your 4K gaming monitor must have the right inputs for the best experience. Our recommendations have a mix of DisplayPorts and HDMI ports so that you can hook up all of your gaming hardware to them simultaneously with no problems.

What is HDMI 2.1?

The shape of HDMI ports hasn’t changed since its introduction in the mid-2000s, but the internal technology has advanced quite a lot. The current-generation HDMI version is 2.1, and it differs from its predecessor in one big way: Bandwidth. If your device and monitor both have HDMI ports—and you use an HDMI 2.1 cable—data can be transferred between them at up to 40GBps (gigabytes per second). This bandwidth is required to play games at 120Hz or higher in 4K, whether you turn HDR on or not. You can also play games in 8K at 60Hz, but we’re not quite there yet. Many monitors, graphics cards, and game consoles support HDMI 2.1, and we’re pleased that the correct cable isn’t too expensive.

FAQs

Q: Is 4K 144Hz good for gaming?

Yes. Any refresh rate over 60Hz is good for gaming.

Q: Can a 4K monitor run 120 FPS?

If a monitor has a refresh rate of 120Hz, it can play games with a frame rate of 120 FPS with no slowdown.

Q: How long do 4K monitors last on average?

A current-generation 4K monitor should last a decade or more, but you may be tempted to upgrade as new games can be played at a higher resolution.

Q: What aspect ratio should I go for with 4K monitors?

Most of our recommendations have a 16:9 aspect ratio, standard for widescreen displays. The ultrawide monitor we’re recommending has a 32:9 aspect ratio. Both are fine as long as your go-to games were designed to support an ultrawide monitor.

Q: How much does a 4K gaming monitor cost?

Value is important in the world of PC peripherals, so we made sure to have an option that costs less than $400. Displays with higher-end specs can cost several times that price.

Final thoughts on the best 4K gaming monitors

The proliferation of 4K gaming monitors and capable PC and console hardware proves game developers are pushing far beyond the HD limits. We’re especially pleased that all the major monitor makers have jumped into this space, so options are available at all prices. It’s also worth pointing out that you can hook up your gaming consoles or a PC to a 4K TV if you’d prefer the living room gaming experience to sitting at a desk. But if you’ve decided you want to play PC games the “old-fashioned way” on one of these amazing monitors, we recommend getting a comfortable, ergonomic gaming chair to avoid back pain after long, repetitive sessions.

Why trust us

Popular Science started writing about technology more than 150 years ago. There was no such thing as “gadget writing” when we published our first issue in 1872, but if there was, our mission to demystify the world of innovation for everyday readers means we would have been all over it. Here in the present, PopSci is fully committed to helping readers navigate the increasingly intimidating array of devices on the market right now.

Our writers and editors have combined decades of experience covering and reviewing consumer electronics. We each have our own obsessive specialties—from high-end audio to video games to cameras and beyond—but when we’re reviewing devices outside of our immediate wheelhouses, we do our best to seek out trustworthy voices and opinions to help guide people to the very best recommendations. We know we don’t know everything, but we’re excited to live through the analysis paralysis that internet shopping can spur so readers don’t have to.

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Best Buy is offering rare Nintendo Switch game deals for Mar10 Day https://www.popsci.com/gear/nintendo-switch-mario-best-buy-deals/ Fri, 10 Mar 2023 14:50:13 +0000 https://www.popsci.com/?p=518718
Mar10 deals on Nintendo Switch games. This is a compilation image of mario kart, mario party, mario maker, and mario golf
Stan Horaczek

Aim your browser at Bowser and save $20 on absolutely essential Mario games that rarely see a discount.

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Mar10 deals on Nintendo Switch games. This is a compilation image of mario kart, mario party, mario maker, and mario golf
Stan Horaczek

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If you have a Nintendo Switch, you know Nintendo’s first-party games don’t go on sale often. Even used copies of games starring that charming little Italian plumber hover frustratingly close to retail no matter how long they have been out. This week, however, Best Buy is offering $20 to $40 off some very popular Mario games in honor of his holiday. You see, it’s March 10, and Mar10 kinda looks like the word “Mario.” Adorable. The sale includes both physical and digital copies of the games, which is handy if you’re always losing those little cartridges. There are also a few fun accessories tossed in with all the deals.

Mario Kart 8 Deluxe $39 (Was $59)

Nintendo

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I don’t need to tell you what Mario Kart is. Few video games have the kind of long-lasting appeal as Mario Kart. I once accidentally smashed my brother’s laptop after a particularly egregious loss on the GameCube version. You can get a physical copy of the game or the same discount on a digital download version.

Mario Kart Live: Home Circuit – Mario Set Mario Edition $59 (Was $99)

Nintendo

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If you want to drag the Mario Kart action out into the real world, this interactive set includes camera-wielding carts that drive around tracks you design in your home. You get a first-person view of the action as Mario and his pals scream around your living room and terrify your dog. It’s nearly half-off during the sale.

More Nintendo Switch game deals

Here are the rest of the Mario deals you can jump on like Mario jumps on those poor defenseless turtles:

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7 ways to use the Elgato Stream Deck beyond livestreaming https://www.popsci.com/diy/elgato-stream-deck-alternative-uses/ Thu, 09 Mar 2023 15:14:59 +0000 https://www.popsci.com/?p=518435
An Elgato Stream Deck under a wall-mounted TV, in a room with blue lighting.
The Elgato Stream Deck is more versatile than you might have realized. Elgato

If you love shortcuts, the Stream Deck might be the device for you.

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An Elgato Stream Deck under a wall-mounted TV, in a room with blue lighting.
The Elgato Stream Deck is more versatile than you might have realized. Elgato

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The Elgato Stream Deck is traditionally associated with livestreaming, but its usefulness goes way beyond. If you own one, there are numerous ways to incorporate it into your daily life, and if you don’t have one because you’re not a streamer, you just might want to reconsider.

The Stream Deck itself is a physical panel of hardware shortcut buttons that can be used to switch views, add sounds, drop in overlays, and manage a variety of other enhancements and options super quickly. This means you can use it and its siblings (the Stream Deck Mini, the Stream Deck XL, and the Stream Deck Plus) as a control panel for all kinds of computing tasks.

1. Control your music

Dive into the Stream Deck software and you’ll see there’s a System section in the actions list on the right. One of the entries there is Multimedia, which will give you a full selection of audio playback keys: They include start, stop, skip backward, and skip forward.

That means you can manage anything that’s playing with a single tap, should you need to quickly pause your music or pass by a track you really don’t want to hear. The Multimedia actions include system volume controls as well, making it even more useful.

2. Set custom timers

The timer tool for the Elgato Stream Deck.
Count down a specific length of time with the Stream Deck’s timer function. David Nield

When you want to time a lunch break or a study session, you could use a phone app or simply type “timer” into Google. No matter what your standard method of timekeeping is, there’s a good chance it’s not as simple or convenient as the Stream Deck timer.

In the Stream Deck desktop program, find the Stream Deck heading, add Timer to your list of buttons, then specify how long you want it to run. Once the button has been set up, press it to see the minutes and seconds tick away on the Stream Deck’s LED panel, and you can choose a sound to play when time has run out.

3. Switch between audio inputs

If you have both headphones and built-in speakers connected to your computer, switching between them is more of an effort than it really should be. The Audio Switcher plug-in available in the Stream Deck App Store makes it much more straightforward.

Once it’s installed, you can quickly toggle between available audio devices or set a specific one with a button push. You’ll never again have audio blaring out of your speakers when it should have been sent to your headphones.

4. Run any kind of task

Essentially, you can assign any keyboard shortcut to a button on the Stream Deck, so your options are wide open for any program you use. One way to do this is via the Hotkey action under the System heading: just specify the keyboard shortcut you’d like it to launch.

[Related: 20 essential Windows keyboard shortcuts]

This works with shortcuts that already exist, but you can create your own series of actions too. If you want a shortcut that, say, resizes images or opens folders, check out the Super Macro plug-in from the Elgato app store. Once you have it, you’ll be able to assign an action to a keyboard shortcut, then add it to the Stream Deck.

5. Level up your video meetings

The MuteDeck plugin in the Elgato Stream Deck App Store.
MuteDeck is a great plug-in for video calls. David Nield

Many of us have had the experience of fumbling around for the right button to press to unmute a microphone or leave a meeting when on a video call, but the MuteDeck plug-in from the Stream Deck store assigns these key features and several more to buttons. You’ll never fumble on a video call again.

The plug-in is compatible with Zoom, Microsoft Teams, Google Meet, and Webex by Cisco. You can also use it to start sharing your screen and to switch between multiple cameras if you have more than one webcam connected—all just a button push away.

6. Open websites and programs

Sure, you can open websites and programs the conventional way, but the Stream Deck offers a Website action (for websites) and an Open action (for applications) under System that make the process very straightforward.

[Related: How to livestream an event for all your friends and family]

Add the Windows Mover & Resizer plug-in from the Stream Deck app store, and you can set the exact location on screen that your program windows open (and on which monitor, if you have more than one).

You can then go further and combine that plug-in with the Multi Action action (under Multi Action) that the Stream Deck offers out of the box. When you’re done, you’ll be able to sit down at your computer, press one key on the Stream Deck, and launch all your important applications in specific positions on the display.

7. Control your smart lights

The Stream Deck works with smart lights from a variety of brands, including Philips Hue, Nanoleaf, and Eve. Rather than messing around in an app on your phone, you can simply tap a Stream Deck button to turn lights on and off, set scenes and colors, and so on.

Head to the Stream Deck store inside the desktop application to find the plug-ins you need for your lights. In the case of Philips Hue, for instance, you’re able to switch scenes, cycle between colors, and change the brightness and contrast. Different buttons can be configured for different lights in your home too.

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The Steel Series Arctis 1 gaming headset is just $21 on Amazon https://www.popsci.com/gear/steel-series-arctis-1-amazon-deal/ Tue, 07 Mar 2023 21:10:04 +0000 https://www.popsci.com/?p=517961
Steel Series Arctis 1 gaming headset on a blue background
Steel Series

Try and find a better gaming headset for two sawbucks? You probably can't. (And if you can, please tell us about it.)

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Steel Series Arctis 1 gaming headset on a blue background
Steel Series

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There are tons of really excellent high-end gaming headsets out there on the market, but they can cost as much as a full console if you want all the bells and whistles. If you just want a comfortable, reliable, headset for smack-talking your friends, however, you can’t beat Amazon’s current deal on the Steel Series Arctis 1 for just $21 (down from $50).

Steel Series

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This is a wired headset that’s designed to work primarily with the Xbox Series X/S and the Xbox One. Because it uses a standard 3.5mm connector, however, it’ll work with just about any Xbox, Playstation, Nintendo Switch, or gaming PC. Despite its low price, Steel Series says it still provides the same “signature soundscape” as other higher-end models in the line.

A steel-reinforced headband makes the whole headset durable and resilient, so even if you chuck it at the ground after a particularly egregious Overwatch elimination, you probably won’t have to replace it. The noise-canceling microphone easily detaches if you want to take these out and use them as regular headphones.

All that aside, this Steel Series Arctis 1 deal means you’re looking at a quality gaming headset from a reputable manufacturer for less than the price of a fancy new set of Fortnite skins. You can’t argue with that.

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The best gaming headsets for 2023 https://www.popsci.com/story/reviews/best-gaming-headsets/ Wed, 02 Dec 2020 17:04:51 +0000 https://www.popsci.com/uncategorized/best-gaming-headsets/
Person wearing one of the best gaming headphones.
Look below for some things consider when buying the best gaming headset. Fredrick Tendong via Unspash

Whether you opt for consoles or PCs, one thing you’ll need for serious gaming is a good, solid gaming headset.

The post The best gaming headsets for 2023 appeared first on Popular Science.

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Person wearing one of the best gaming headphones.
Look below for some things consider when buying the best gaming headset. Fredrick Tendong via Unspash

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Gaming headsets are one of the less-appreciated gadgets that make for a great gaming experience. If you’re playing multiplayer PS5 games and need to communicate with team members (or trash-talk opponents), you’ll need both solid audio sound quality and a crystal-clear microphone. Gaming headsets are also great for single-player games, as they can provide amazing sound quality without disturbing roommates or family. Heck, they can even be used for video chatting, something we’re all more familiar with. Finding the best gaming headset may look tricky, but we’ve got some tips that should help you with the task.

Things to consider when shopping for the best gaming headset

At its core, a gaming headset differs from other headphones because it has some kind of external microphone. These are typically on a boom, which can be moved around and adjusted for optimal comfort and sound quality. They’re also usually large, over-the-ear style headphones, rather than on-ear or earbud style. That helps to block out other noise, allowing you to get fully into the game, and it can also be more comfortable for long stretches.

Do you want wireless or wired?

The very way that you plug gaming headsets in is a little bit different than other headphones. You’ll find three main varieties: Bluetooth, wired, and wireless with a dongle. Bluetooth should generally not be used for gaming; it can be tricky to pair with some consoles, and Bluetooth sound quality can’t compare with the other options.

Wired headsets will have top-tier sound quality, but that’s one more thing to break—and we’ve all had the experience of a broken, split, or torn headphone cable. Look for a headset with a replaceable cable; these are standard 3.5mm cables, which you can find on Amazon or pretty much anywhere that sells electronics.

Best wired gaming headset: HyperX Cloud Alpha S – PC Gaming Headset

Amazon

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This wired gaming headset scores killer reviews from Amazon, and it’s easy to see why. It boasts an aluminum frame for lightness and strength, it has a detachable cable, the microphone includes noise cancellation so background noise doesn’t mess with your conversation, and it has fantastic sound quality. If you’re concerned about comfort, it also has replaceable ear cushions, so you can pick the best one for your ears.

Best wireless gaming headset: SteelSeries Arctis 1 Wireless Gaming Headset

Amazon

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SteelSeries makes some of the best gaming headsets on the market, and the Arctis 1 wireless gaming headset is no exception. With a USB-C wireless dongle, you can get the benefits of wireless play without the downside in sound quality of Bluetooth; plus, the dongle is compatible with all manner of USB-C devices, including the Nintendo Switch, many Android devices, and the iPad Pro. It’s also much more subdued in its design than many gaming headsets, and you can pop off the boom microphone if you want to use it as just a regular set of headphones.

What consoles is the gaming headset compatible with?

Compatibility with gaming headsets can get a little tricky, especially if you’re buying them as a gift. Not all headsets are compatible with all consoles, and the last thing you want is a pair of headphones that can’t actually connect to the hardware you use to play games.

If you’re buying as a gift and you’re not sure whether they’ll be compatible, go for a standard wired set; every gaming hardware out there has a headphone jack. Otherwise, you look for compatibility within Amazon. You can even filter for PS4 or PS5 headsets, Xbox, PC, or any other system.

Best gaming headset with universal compatibility: Razer BlackShark V2 X Gaming Headset

Amazon

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Razer is one of the most established makers of gaming accessories and hardware, and the BlackShark V2 X has absolutely stellar reviews. At only 240 grams, it’s very lightweight, but it has a plethora of features, including a volume knob on the headphones themselves, a 3.5mm jack for total compatibility, and the company’s TriForce 50mm drivers, for excellent sound quality. There’s some included software that nobody seems to like all that much, but you don’t really have to use it, and at this price, it’s one of the best bargains on the market.

Customizability means more comfort

Gaming can be hard, but the phrase “no pain, no gain” shouldn’t apply to your ears. Wearing headphones for hours on end can be absolute torture if they aren’t just right for your ears. The ears have tons of nerve endings in the cartilage that makes up their structure, and even mild pressure in the wrong place, or at the wrong angle, can be complete misery when endured for a long enough time.

Look for lightweight headphones to minimize that pressure. Another tip that might help is to look for headphones that boast replaceable ear cushions. Those are the actual bits of circular padding that go over the ears, and if a headset offers a bunch of options, you’re much more likely to find a pair that works for you.

Best gaming headset for customizability and comfort: ASTRO Gaming A50

Amazon

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Astro’s A50 isn’t cheap, but you get a lot for your money. The sound quality is impressive, and the product is noted for its comfort level. That’s helped along by how customizable it is: you can swap out the headband and the ear cushions to ensure that you’re getting exactly the right fit. The charging dock, too, is a nice touch. But it isn’t universally compatible; you’ll have to buy the set that works with a specific console.

How lightweight do you want your gaming headset to be?

Weight is tied in with comfort, and is just as important for ensuring that you can play long sessions without feeling as if there’s a helmet weighing you down. Being lightweight can really help, but it isn’t all about the raw number of grams that it weighs. You’ll also want to look for a balanced headset, so that the weight is evenly distributed over the headband. Even a lightweight headset can feel uncomfortable if all the weight is in one place.

You can look at the gram number to figure out how lightweight a gaming headset is, but some of the more comfortable ones aren’t necessarily the lightest; they’re just the best-built.

Best lightweight gaming headset: JBL Quantum 100

Amazon

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At this price, the JBL Quantum 100 is a steal. And comfort is a major selling point here. The headset is exceedingly lightweight, at only 220 grams. The ear cushions are constructed of memory foam, just like nice mattresses, and coated with a synthetic leather. The boom mic is also detachable, a nice touch, and the sound quality is quite good. The microphone isn’t adjustable, which is a bummer, but this is a great budget option.

What kind of microphone will work best?

Microphone quality is essential for gaming headsets; after all, it’s one of the features that distinguishes them from other headphones. Typically, gaming headsets will have a removable, detachable microphone that sticks out from one of the ear cups, in front of the mouth. You want this microphone to be adjustable, so that you can make sure it isn’t too close or too far from your mouth.

Many higher-end headsets include noise cancellation, which is actually a bit of a mixed bag. It’s great for noisy environments, because it creates a background noise to drown out any environmental sounds, but it can also make the audio quality a little bit dull and muffled. Still, it’s a nice thing to have.

Best gaming headset microphone: Corsair Virtuoso RGB Wireless SE Gaming Headset

Amazon

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This Corsair Virtuoso advertises “broadcast quality” microphone, and they aren’t kidding. The mic is omnidirectional, meaning it can input sound coming from any direction—front, back, sides, this mic doesn’t discriminate. It also has the option of going either wired or wireless, a great blend of both worlds. Reviewers say it can get a little hot after long sessions, but your mileage may vary.

Brands to know

Looking through an electronics retailer, you’ll find a million different brands, most of which you’re sure to have never heard of. Those no-name brands are a gamble: some of them come from the exact same factories as the big names, and will be high quality. Others may be flimsy, or have an annoying background hiss, or may be uncomfortable to wear. These brands make reliably great stuff.

HyperX

HyperX is actually the gaming division of Kingston, which is best known for making RAM and USB drives and other commodity stuff. But they also make some of the absolute best gaming headsets on the market, including the HyperX Cloud Alpha, which has been rated as one of the best, period. Their styling tends to be gamer-specific, with harsh, neon lines and logos. HyperX stuff is great at the mid-range, between $50 and $100.

Corsair

Corsair, like HyperX, is perhaps best known for their behind-the-grille computer hardware; this company also makes really good GPU cooling fans, if you need one of those. In the budget category, it’s hard to top what Corsair makes; they pack really good design into sub-$50 headsets. They’re noted for their build and sound quality, though you will be giving up a few high-end features. Their headsets may not have removable audio cables, for example, which is a feature we really like. But if you’re spending $30, it’s hard to argue too much.

SteelSeries

SteelSeries is a high-end gaming company from Denmark. They’re a great option at both the low end (their Arctis 1 headset is absolutely stellar at only $50) and at the more expensive end (like the $180 Arctis 9X). One nice element that SteelSeries brings is in subdued design. Some gamers really like the whole straight-out-of-The-Matrix, neon-RGB lights, angular design aesthetic, but many just want something a little simpler. SteelSeries headsets tend to be minimalistic, and can be worn out in public without screaming “I’m a gamer!”

Best budget gaming headset: What You Get for Under $50

You’d be shocked at what you can get at the very low end of the price spectrum. Almost every good manufacturer, has budget gaming headsets in this price range. Razer sells the Kraken X, which has great reviews for its super lightweight, comfortable design. The Corsair HS60 Pro boasts 7.1 surround sound, a noise-canceling microphone, and is compatible with just about everything due to its 3.5mm jack connection.

A final word on finding the best gaming headset

Gaming headsets can turn an ordinary gaming experience into something really special: totally immersive, with crystal-clear communication, and enough comfort to continue blasting away for hours without once thinking about the position of your earlobes. And there’s no need to spend a boatload; if you want to stay under $100 or even under $50, there are plenty of options out there that would make any gamer happy. All you need to do is decide which features your heart desires and you’ll be able to find the best gaming headset for you. Happy gaming!

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The best 4K monitors for 2023 https://www.popsci.com/gear/best-4k-monitor/ Fri, 03 Mar 2023 22:00:00 +0000 https://www.popsci.com/?p=515562
The best 4K monitors
Brandt Ranj / Popular Science

Equip your home office, gaming setup, or editing rig with the best 4K monitor.

The post The best 4K monitors for 2023 appeared first on Popular Science.

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The best 4K monitors
Brandt Ranj / Popular Science

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Best overall Dell S2722QC Dell S2722QC
SEE IT

Everything a creative professional or student needs in a single, well-constructed package.

Best for gaming Samsung Odyssey Neo G8 Samsung Odyssey Neo G8
SEE IT

A no-compromise display for serious PC or console gamers.

Best budget PC Gaming photo Philips 288E2E
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All the performance most people need—for a lot less money.

Whether you’re working from home, gaming, or creating content, a solid 4K monitor provides all the screen real estate you need to get things done. A high-resolution display will allow you to see text, photos, and video in great detail—especially media that’s been created recently. External monitors have been a common tech accessory for decades, but the marketplace for 4K displays specifically has expanded greatly over the past few years. The combination of 4K PC and console games, accessible 4K video, and the necessity of a home office or learning space has accelerated this change. If you’re assembling a new computer setup, these are the best 4K monitors available right now.

How we chose the best 4K monitors

The monitor market has introduced several new 4K models in recent years, but these high-res options still aren’t the standard. If you want 4K resolution, that narrows the field quite a bit right off the bat. By eliminating hundreds—if not thousands—of options, it’s easier to choose the best one for your needs. Our recommendations are based on meticulous research and carefully considering the most common uses for a 4K monitor. We’ve also considered the computer platform (Mac or PC) you’re using and whether you’d like to use your monitor with several devices or to replace a TV.

A monitor is the type of tech accessory most people will rely on daily for a decade or more, so our recommendations must stand the test of time and be ready to work with every computer you get. Longevity, multi-functionality, and value were the core virtues we considered when searching for and ultimately selecting the best 4K monitors.

The best 4K monitors: Reviews & Recommendations

Our selection of 4K monitors is designed to match any budget and lifestyle. Some are “all-rounders,” which means they’ll be pretty good for many tasks, while others are designed for a specific purpose—gaming, for example—or have a differentiating tech spec, like a curved panel. Our 4K monitor recommendations will serve you well while browsing the web or streaming video.

Best overall: Dell S2722QC

Dell

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Specs

  • Size: 27-Inches
  • Ports: 1 x USB-C PD, 2 x HDMI, 2 x USB-A, 1 x headphone jack
  • Refresh rate: 60Hz
  • Vesa compatibility: 100 x 100 mm
  • Speakers: Yes

Pros

  • Can quickly charge laptops while they’re connected
  • Multiple USB-A ports
  • Built-in speakers

Cons

  • Low refresh rate for serious gaming

Dell’s S2722QC is an all-in-one package that offers the right mix of excellent performance for most uses and value. One of its standout features is a USB-C port, which allows you to connect it to a MacBook or many modern Windows laptops without an adapter. Yes, there’re multiple HDMI ports on this display, but hooking your computer up to it over USB-C has two big advantages.

First, the laptop will actually charge while it’s connected to this monitor, so it’ll be ready to go when you disconnect it. Second, the single cable also supports data transfer, which is helpful if you hook up an external hard drive, webcam, or another accessory into the S2722QC’s USB-A ports. Using this 4K monitor as a charging station and USB hub puts it at a big advantage over most external displays available now—especially given the S2722QC’s sub-$300 price tag. As a bonus, this single-cable solution will make your home office setup look neater. and ensure your laptop is ready to go when you take it out of your home.

If your laptop doesn’t have a USB-C port, you can still plug it into one of this external display’s two HDMI ports. The next time you upgrade your machine, these welcome features will likely become accessible, which future-proofs the S2722QC a little bit. This 4K monitor’s port selection is complemented by its 3W speakers, which will be useful if you haven’t invested in a standalone audio system for your computer. You shouldn’t expect any audio miracles from this hardware, but it’s better to have something than nothing.

The S2722QC’s only downside—depending on how you plan on using your 4K monitor—is its relatively slow 8ms (millisecond) response time and 60Hz panel. This doesn’t make a difference when you’re watching videos, browsing the web, or editing photos. The only time you’ll notice this feature is when you’re playing fast-paced games like first-person shooters. Casual or slower-paced games don’t require a fast refresh rate display, but cutting-edge titles will suffer slightly, so opt for a dedicated gaming monitor instead.

If you’re not a PC or console gamer looking for a high-resolution display primarily for gaming, the S2722QC will serve you very well.

Best for gaming: Samsung Odyssey Neo G8

Samsung

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Specs

  • Size: 32-Inches
  • Ports: 2 x HDMI, 2 x USB-A, headphone jack
  • Refresh rate: 240Hz
  • Vesa compatibility: 100 x 100 mm
  • Speakers: No

Pros

  • Extremely high refresh rate
  • Support for Adaptive Sync with AMD and NVidia graphics cards
  • Matte display won’t show glare from lights

Cons

  • Price
  • Curved display may not be for everyone.

If gaming is your primary use case for a 4K monitor, Samsung’s Odyssey Neo G8 is a no-compromise display. Its 240Hz panel is incredibly fast, allowing you to play the latest games at their fastest-possible speed—so long as your gaming computer‘s graphics card and processor are fast enough to handle them. The monitor’s display panel is complemented by built-in software support for Adaptive Sync, which will offer better performance when it’s hooked up to a computer with an AMD or NVidia graphics card.

Adaptive sync will further reduce latency (lag) and the frequency of image artifacts like screen tearing, which can occur when the screen is updated with new images quickly. This technology, which works with settings like low input lag mode and a refresh rate optimizer, increases the probability of smooth, consistent gameplay.

Many modern games support HDR (high dynamic range), which improves contrast and color accuracy when a PC or console is hooked up to a display that supports them. Samsung outfitted the Odyssey Neo G8 with Quantum HDR 2000, so newer games, TV shows, and movies will really pop. Games that don’t support HDR will also look nice, so don’t worry if you spend a lot of time playing the classics.

While Samsung focused primarily on optimizing the Neo G8 for gaming, it made design choices that make it a solid pick for general use. The 4K monitor can be tilted and height adjusted and rotated a full 90 degrees. This is a huge deal ergonomically, as it allows you to position the monitor exactly where you want it without having to get a third-party stand or mount.

The most controversial choice is that the Odyssey Neo G8 has a curved display, a love-it-or-hate-it situation. Curved displays have the advantage of taking up more of your peripheral vision, which, combined with the Odyssey Neo G8’s 21:1 aspect ratio, will create an immersive gaming experience. On the other hand, curved displays can reflect light from multiple angles, which can get frustrating if you’re playing in a well-lit room.

If you have a dedicated PC or console gaming setup, Samsung’s Odyssey Neo G8 can be an excellent 4K desk-friendly display. That said, its cutting-edge hardware does come at an extremely high price. Don’t get us wrong, the Odyssey Neo G8 is an excellent 4K monitor and priced appropriately given its tech specs, but it’s a significant investment.

Best curved: AOC CU32V3

AOC

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Specs

  • Size: 32-Inches
  • Ports: 2 x HDMI, 1 x DisplayPort 1.2, headphone jack
  • Refresh rate: 60Hz
  • Vesa compatibility: 100 x 100 mm
  • Speakers: No

Pros

  • Large viewing angle
  • Built-in blue light reduction
  • Price

Cons

  • Curved display may not be for everyone or everywhere

We mentioned the big pros and cons of choosing an external display with a curved panel in the Samsung write-up above, but if you’ve decided this type of display is right for you as a content creator, AOC’s CU32V3 is the monitor to pick. The 32-inch 4K monitor will fill your field of vision, which can be helpful if you’re hunkering down on a big video or photo editing project that requires your full attention. Creative work is what the CU32V3 excels at because it supports 121 percent of the sRGB color gamut along with 90 percent of the Adobe RGB and 89.8 percent of the DCI-P3 color gamuts. These specs become particularly important when you’re color-grading video, which needs to look accurate on multiple TVs with different settings.

The CU32V3’s 4ms latency and 60Hz refresh rates are fine for most tasks, but we wouldn’t recommend playing serious games on this 4K monitor. Those tech specs are appropriate for a monitor in the CU32V3’s price range and will only affect users with a particularly intense use case. AOC was pretty generous when deciding on this monitor’s port selection, though we’d have liked to see some USB-A ports since they’ve become standard on many displays. On the other hand, we appreciate the CU32V3’s built-in blue light reduction mode, which will make it easier to use it late at night. A blue light mode will tint the screen, so it shouldn’t be enabled when photo or video editing, but it’s a nice feature if you’re surfing the web or using this 4K monitor for regular tasks.

If you’re set on getting a curved 4K monitor, AOC’s CU32V3 is an excellent value thanks to its big screen and color reproduction.

Best ultrawide: LG 38WN95C-W

Specs

  • Size: 38-Inches
  • Ports: 1 x Thunderbolt (USB-C), 2 x HDMI, 1 x DisplayPort, 2 x USB-A, 1 x Headphone jack
  • Refresh rate: 144Hz
  • Vesa compatibility: 100 x 100 mm
  • Speakers: No

Pros

  • Massive display that’s still VESA compatible
  • Solid refresh rate for gaming
  • Wide port selection

Cons

  • Price
  • May be too big for many desks

Ultrawide monitors have become popular recently because they allow you to have two full-sized windows open on a single display rather than requiring a dual-monitor setup. At 38 inches wide, the 38WN95C-W requires a huge space commitment, but you’re rewarded with a curved display guaranteed to take up all of your peripheral vision. Technically this is a QHD+ (3840 x 1600) display, which isn’t quite a “true 4K,” but it’s the closest you’ll get with a display like this. The monitor would have to be comically tall to accommodate the extra 500 pixels, and you won’t miss them with this type of display.

The 38WN95C-W is stacked on the tech side, especially in its port selection. You can connect four devices to it simultaneously using its mix of HDMI, DisplayPort, and Thunderbolt ports. The monitor’s Thunderbolt 4 input—the same shape as a USB-C port—has the same benefits as the one in our best overall pick for this guide. You can charge your laptop and connect it to accessories through the 38WN95C-W’s pair of USB-A ports with a single cable.

Gamers will appreciate the 38WN95C-W’s 1ms response time, 144Hz refresh rate, and support for AMD FreeSync and NVidia G-Sync, all of which make this monitor a solid pick for gaming. Its height, swivel, and tilt-adjustable stand also score points in the ergonomics arena. Frankly, it’s hard to find a task the 38WN95C-W isn’t well suited for.

The limiting factor for this display is space—if you have enough and are committed to living the ultrawide monitor lifestyle, the 38WN95C-W can handle anything you throw at it with aplomb.

Best budget: Philips 288E2E

Philips

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Specs

  • Size: 28-inches
  • Ports: 2 x HDMI, 1 x DisplayPort, 1 x Headphone jack
  • Refresh rate: 60Hz
  • Vesa compatibility: 100 x 100 mm
  • Speakers: Yes

Pros

  • Support for 120 percent of the sRGB spectrum
  • Height and tilt adjustment
  • Price

Cons

  • Refresh too slow for gaming

Philips’ 288E2E proves how far the affordability of 4K monitor technology has come in a relatively short time. For $270 (at the time of this reporting), you’re getting a 28-inch 4K display with AMD FreeSync support, the ability to display 120 percent of the sRGB color spectrum, built-in speakers, and an ultra-slim design. Philips had to make very few feature cuts when designing this display, and they mostly come down to nice-to-have-but-unnecessary extras, namely a USB-A port and ultra-fast refresh rate.

These commissions aren’t glaring—though gaming on a 60Hz panel isn’t ideal—and make the 288E2E feel like a slightly more barebones version of our best overall pick, Dell’s excellent S2722QC. Part of this 4K monitor’s appeal is its averageness. Hear us out: There’s no curved panel or ultrawide design, just a straight-ahead high-resolution display. While this may be relatively boring, it’s exactly what most people are looking for in a 4K monitor for general tasks. This display even has built-in speakers, a relative niche feature not found in many of its competitors in this price range.

If your needs are relatively modest, the difference between Philips’ 288E2E and other picks is insignificant. You can use the money you save by picking up this display to upgrade additional parts of your home office setup.

What to consider when buying the best 4K monitors

Several factors should be considered when deciding which 4K monitor fits your needs. These are the five we’ve deemed most important when conducting our research and to help you make your selection:

Screen size

4K monitors come in a variety of sizes, but bigger doesn’t always necessarily mean better. A large monitor will take up more room on your desk and may not be necessary if your needs are modest. Photo and video editors can take full advantage of the space available on a 38-inch 4K monitor more easily than a writer or typical student. Ironically, it’s easier to see individual pixels on a monitor as its screen size grows, which may annoy you if you’ve got very sharp sight. The 4K monitors we recommend run the gamut from 27-38 inches.

Ports

A monitor’s ports (also called inputs) determine which cable is required to connect it to a computer or other tech accessory. All of the 4K monitors above are equipped with multiple HDMI ports, which are the most common input found on external displays and TVs. Many also feature a DisplayPort or USB-C port, which are more niche but serve the same purpose. Some of our 4K monitor picks have USB-A ports, which allow you to use them as a hub to connect your computer to additional accessories.

Refresh rate

A monitor’s refresh rate—measured in hertz, shortened to Hz—determines how quickly it can be updated with new information. Refresh rates are measured in milliseconds, which means this tech spec isn’t important for common tasks but will make a difference if you choose to use your external display for gaming. A typical monitor offers a 60Hz refresh rate, but it can go much higher. Some gaming monitors go as high as 500Hz, but that’s extreme for the category.

VESA compatibility

All 4K monitors above come with a built-in stand, but you can replace it with a different one—whether it’s a wall mount or a monitor arm—if preferred, as long as they are VESA compatible. Switching to a different monitor stand may improve the ergonomics of your computing setup or save you desk space based on the one you choose.

Speakers

If you’d like to use your computer as a TV replacement, it’s smart to get one with built-in speakers. A monitor’s speakers will never match the quality of a powered pair but will work well in a pinch.

FAQs

Q: Is text too small on a 4K monitor?

No. Text looks very clear on a 4K monitor. If you’re having trouble reading it, you can always zoom in on the text you’re reading to see it more easily.

Q: Does a 4K monitor need HDMI 2.1?

No. Many 4K monitors have HDMI 2.0 ports and will connect to a game console, computer, or another tech accessory with no problems. HDMI 2.1 ports are only necessary for playing native 4K console or PC games with HDR (High Dynamic Range) enabled.)

Q: Can my PC handle a 4K monitor?

Yes. Most desktop and laptop computers sold in the past five years or so are powerful enough to run a 4K monitor capably.

Q: How much should a 4K monitor cost?

This will depend on the display’s size, refresh rate, and the other factors listed above. You can get a basic 4K monitor for under $400 but will have to spend much more if you’d like one specifically suited for gaming.

Final thoughts on the best 4K monitors

A 4K monitor will quickly become the most important tech accessory in your computing setup, right next to the external hard drive you use for regular backups and the Wi-Fi router you rely on for a steady Internet connection. It used to be difficult to find monitors with this resolution without spending thousands of dollars or settling for sub-par specs, but thankfully that’s no longer the case. Advancements in display technology have made 4K monitors more accessible and affordable than ever, and once you get one, there’s no going back.

Why trust us

Popular Science started writing about technology more than 150 years ago. There was no such thing as “gadget writing” when we published our first issue in 1872, but if there was, our mission to demystify the world of innovation for everyday readers means we would have been all over it. Here in the present, PopSci is fully committed to helping readers navigate the increasingly intimidating array of devices on the market right now.

Our writers and editors have combined decades of experience covering and reviewing consumer electronics. We each have our own obsessive specialties—from high-end audio, to video games, to cameras, and beyond—but when we’re reviewing devices outside of our immediate wheelhouses, we do our best to seek out trustworthy voices and opinions to help guide people to the very best recommendations. We know we don’t know everything, but we’re excited to live through the analysis paralysis that internet shopping can spur so readers don’t have to.

The post The best 4K monitors for 2023 appeared first on Popular Science.

Articles may contain affiliate links which enable us to share in the revenue of any purchases made.

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Dancers and chessmasters can compete to qualify for the 2023 Olympic Esports Series https://www.popsci.com/technology/olympic-esports-competition-qualifiers/ Wed, 01 Mar 2023 21:00:00 +0000 https://www.popsci.com/?p=516395
Close-up On row of gamer's Hands on a keyboards
Qualifying matches are starting for virtual tennis, sailing, archery, chess, and more. Deposit Photos

Virtual variations on sports like tennis and baseball, as well as recently added Just Dance, are just a few competitions open to players.

The post Dancers and chessmasters can compete to qualify for the 2023 Olympic Esports Series appeared first on Popular Science.

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Close-up On row of gamer's Hands on a keyboards
Qualifying matches are starting for virtual tennis, sailing, archery, chess, and more. Deposit Photos

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Today marks the official start to the 2023 Olympic Esports Series (OES), with qualifiers set to begin in the coming days and weeks for virtual variations on tennis, motorsports, archery, baseball, taekwondo, cycling, as well as dance and chess. The inaugural Olympic Virtual Series took place in 2021, but this year marks the first time that IOC-sponsored final rounds will take place in person between June 22-25 in Singapore.

To facilitate the matches, the IOC is partnering with major video game and app makers for many of the events. Motorsports medalists, for example, will be determined within Gran Turismo races, while dance champions will prove themselves via Just Dance sets. The officials at Chess.com will lend a hand for players’ opening moves and gambits, as well. However, as The Verge notes, all of the OES competitions are virtual representations of real-life competitions, so there don’t expect to see any Fortnite battle royales or Elden Ring speedruns. There are plenty of other places to get your fix for those.

[Related: Turn your iMessages into a chessboard with this new add-on.]

Both eSports and professional board games often get a bad rap. It may not take a lot of physical strength to move chess pieces across a board, but make no mistake, it’s a sport in its own right. Despite their quiet, contemplative stereotype, professional matches are pretty physically demanding—games can last hours, stress levels are through the roof, and the constant mental gymnastics require healthy diets and lifestyles to maintain the levels of energy and focus required to win. Grandmaster Magnus Carlsen, for example, drinks a mixture of chocolate and plain milk during tournaments to “keep his blood sugar at a reasonable level,” as well as maintains a largely vegetarian diet.

The same can be said for eSports gamers—despite some stereotypes, at least one study indicates players often weigh between 9 and 21 percent healthier than the general population, with many abstaining from smoking and drinking. “When you think of esports, there are often concerns raised regarding sedentary behaviour and poor health as a result, and the study revealed some interesting and mixed results,” author and researcher Michael Trotter said when the study was released. “As part of their training regime, elite esports athletes spend more than an hour per day engaging in physical exercise as a strategy to enhance gameplay and manage stress.”

What’s particularly fun about the OES is that pretty much anyone is encouraged to compete. Registration for the various sports are available via the IOC’s official event portal if you think you’ve got what it takes to go for the gold. Maybe it’ll earn you a trip over to Singapore this June.

The post Dancers and chessmasters can compete to qualify for the 2023 Olympic Esports Series appeared first on Popular Science.

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The best routers for Xfinity in 2023 https://www.popsci.com/gear/best-routers-for-xfinity/ Wed, 29 Jun 2022 15:00:00 +0000 https://www.popsci.com/?p=452850
The best routers for Xfinity
Stan Horaczek

Renting a router for Xfinity may seem like a simple solution, but fees add up fast. Here's a more economical option.

The post The best routers for Xfinity in 2023 appeared first on Popular Science.

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The best routers for Xfinity
Stan Horaczek

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Best overall NETGEAR Nighthawk Cable Modem-Router Combo C7000 is the best overall router for xfinity. NETGEAR Nighthawk Cable Modem Wi-Fi Router Combo C7000
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You can’t go wrong with this flexible modem-router that is compatible with multiple internet providers.

Best premium NETGEAR Nighthawk C7100V is the best premium router for xfinity. NETGEAR Nighthawk C7100V
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Step up from the Xfinity-provided set-up with this approved third-party router.

Best budget Motorola MG7315 Modem-Router Combo is the best budget router for xfinity. Motorola MG7315 Modem Wi-Fi Router Combo
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A modem-router can be yours for around $100 with this affordable combo.

Signing up for Comcast’s Xfinity internet service presents you with two options: either rent a router for Xfinity or purchase your own. At first, it might seem smarter to go with the path of least resistance and get the Xfinity router; it’s going to work and is presented as pretty affordable per month. However, after doing a cost-benefit analysis, buying your own modem and router will be cheaper, especially if you’re going to be an Xfinity customer for many years. Router shopping can be costly and nerve-wracking, especially if you purchase the incorrect router and there’s a strict no-return policy. Leave the frantic searching to us: we’ve come up with this list of the best routers for Xfinity.

How we chose the best routers for Xfinity

First, you need to identify what kind of router you want. Then, you need to verify that the router works with Xfinity. To come up with this list, we researched the wide diversity of manufacturer claims, model specs, peer experiences, and user impressions. We then made our top five picks.

The best routers for Xfinity: Reviews & Recommendations

The best routers for Xfinity solve pain points for consumers while adding to the user experience as a whole. Our recommendations focus on the best options that are relatively future-proofed but can work with older devices and technology.

Best overall: NETGEAR Nighthawk Cable Modem-Router Combo C7000

NETGEAR

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Why it made the cut: This modem-router combo can handle up to 30 devices.

Specs

  • Modem combo: Yes
  • Max speed: 800 Mbps
  • Wi-Fi Range: 1,800 square feet

Pros

  • Wide range
  • Future-proofed DOCSIS 3.1
  • Fast download speeds

Cons

  • Technical support for software is subscription-based
  • No support for Wi-Fi 6

This router was named best overall in our Spectrum routers round-up and there’s a reason why it’s also the best overall for Xfinity. It covers 1,800 square feet, can handle up to 30 devices simultaneously, and is compatible with Xfinity plans up to 800 Mbps. It includes separate networks for 2.4 GHz and 5.0 GHz bands, meaning you can organize your devices based on band level. You can plug in gaming consoles and computers to Ethernet thanks to four one-gigabit Ethernet ports, and can share storage with a connected device using the USB port. The router supports Wi-Fi 4 and Wi-Fi 5 but does not support Wi-Fi 6, however. It features a WPA2-PSK security protocol, which is secure enough to protect your home without an enterprise authentication server—simply provide an 8- to 62-character long passphrase to encrypt your network. And, it meets DOCSIS 3.1 specifications. It’s worth noting that it will take some time to see a return on your investment with the Nighthawk but multiple reviews note that owners’ internet speed and performance were improved after setup, making the purchase worth it.

TP-Link

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Why it made the cut: This tri-band router is lightning-fast and has built-in security features.

Specs

  • Modem combo: No
  • Max speed: 800 Mbps
  • Wi-Fi Range: 3,000 square feet

Pros

  • Can choose what devices go on each band
  • High coverage area
  • Alexa compatibility
  • Make your own VPN server at home

Cons

  • Reviewers note tech support could be improved

If you’ve got a modem and are searching for a pure router that will take on 4K streaming and gaming sans lag, look no further than the TP-Link AC4000, which is compatible with 800 Mbps Xfinity internet plans. Say goodbye to buffering thanks to MU-MIMO technology, which lets you connect more devices at once—perfect for setting up multiple consoles and a PC to Wi-Fi. If you’d like to throw some wired connections into the mix, two 1 Gbps and two 2 Gbps Ethernet ports are there for your use. Tri-band capabilities allow you to customize which band—2.4 GHz and two 5 GHz—your device will communicate with. Keep your online activities secure with VPN capabilities and a free lifetime subscription to TP-Link HomeCare, which features antivirus, parental controls, and Quality of Service (QoS). You can even toggle certain controls with Alexa voice commands. If this gaming router doesn’t tickle your megabytes, check out more of our best gaming routers.

Best premium: NETGEAR Nighthawk C7100V

NETGEAR

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Why it made the cut: This Netgear router provides reliable performance now and for the future.

Specs

  • Modem combo: Yes
  • Max speed: 800 Mbps
  • Wi-Fi Range: 1,800 square feet

Pros

  • Compatible with Xfinity Voice (VoIP)
  • Supports up to 30 devices
  • Shared storage drive

Cons

  • Is an older model

This modem-router combo from Netgear is ideal for streaming in 4K, high-speed gaming, and fast downloads. It works with Xfinity internet plans up to 800 Mbps (even more theoretically), has a wide range of 1,800 square feet, and supports up to 30 devices. Unlike other routers on our list, this one features 2 VoIP ports, which allows you to route your calls over the internet—creating clearer voice calls, lowered costs, and higher scalability. The Netgear Nighthawk C7100V features DOCSIS 3.0 capabilities and includes two USB ports and four Ethernet ports. However, it is an older model so not the best long-term investment.

Best for streaming: Motorola MG7700 Modem-Router Combo 

Motorola

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Why it made the cut: This Xfinity-approved modem-router combo has all you need for quality internet quickly.

Specs

  • Modem combo: Yes
  • Max speed: 800 Mbps
  • Wi-Fi Range: 2,000 feet

Pros

  • Quick set-up
  • Right speed for high-speed customers
  • Xfinity-approved

Cons

  • Connectvity issues in larger homes despite range

With its high-speed internet compatibility and four Ethernet ports for direct connection, you’ll have no problems surfing the web or streaming your favorite shows. Setup is quick: you just need to plug in a power cord and coaxial cable and follow a few simple steps to secure your connection. Plus, if you do run into any problems, your customer support tech from Comcast Xfinity will likely be at least somewhat familiar with the MG7700 and can give you some pro tips about working with the device.

The Motorola MG7700 works best in medium-sized homes, with those in large homes finding some trouble connecting in the far corners of their home. For these customers, the Wi-Fi 6/DOCSIS 3.1 Motorola MG8725 might work better. The average person in the here and now, however, will find that the MG7700 will more than suffice.

Best budget: Motorola MG7315 Modem-Router Combo

Motorola

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Why it made the cut: This modem-router combo is just under $100 and includes basic features for the fuss-free user. 

Specs

  • Modem combo: Yes
  • Max speed: 200 Mbps
  • Wi-Fi Range: 1,200 square feet

Pros

  • Faster return on investment
  • Easy installation
  • Power Boost huge advantage

Cons

  • No 5 GHz band
  • Not future-proof

Do you live alone and need a router-modem combo that just gets the job done, no bells and whistles included? Check out the Motorola MG7315, which is compatible with Xfinity’s 200 Mbps service plan—perfect for web browsing, streaming, and light online gaming. This DOCSIS 3.0 cable modem and Wi-Fi 4 router has four Ethernet ports for wired connections. Don’t let its single-band fool you: Its “Power Boost” technology reinforces the Wi-Fi signal for quality gaming, streaming, and video conferencing. A vertical design makes for easy, discreet placement, and prevents overheating for longer product life. Although it doesn’t have any USB ports, it does feature four Ethernet ports for connecting devices directly to the internet. If you’re looking for a step-up option, check out the Motorola MG8702, which features dual-band tech, Wi-Fi 5, and app control capabilities in a similar design.

What to consider when buying the best routers for Xfinity

Reviews, meeting at least the minimum requirements, and crowd-sourced reports can tell you a lot about the overall functioning of a router. Then there are smaller factors that can help you pick once you’ve narrowed it down to a few choices.

Should I get a modem-router combo?

A modem connects you to the internet that Xfinity provides. A router lets your devices access that internet from around your house. A router serves little to no purpose without a modem. If you get a router but don’t have a modem, you will be stuck with a box offering you access, but access that’s the equivalent of opening a door and finding a brick wall.

This is why some reach for a modem-router combo: you get everything you need in a single piece of equipment. To avoid disappointment, be sure to check for compatibility, either from the manufacturer or from Xfinity’s website.

Speed

Routers are rated on the max speed they can deliver. Find the perfect internet speed for you, then buy a router that has a max speed above but not too above that speed (why pay for something you’re not using, after all). 

The next thing you’ll need to consider is DOCSIS, or “Data Over Cable Services Interface Specification.” This factor affects your speed by determining how well the internet can travel from the modem part of the combo to the router part.

There are two varieties of DOCSIS you’ll have to worry about: DOCSIS 3.0 and DOCSIS 3.1. DOCSIS 3.0 is capable of 200 Mbps upload speeds and up to 1 Gbps download speeds. DOCSIS 3.1 has 2 Gbps upload and 10 Gbps download speeds. 

Wi-Fi standard

There are three Wi-Fi standards you are likely to hear about while router shopping. From most to least common, they are Wi-Fi 5, Wi-Fi 6, and Wi-Fi 6E. 

Wi-Fi 5: This standard appears on most routers, and supports speeds up to 3.5 Gbps. It was first introduced around 2011.  

Wi-Fi 6: We’ve written extensively about Wi-Fi 6 but to sum up: Wi-Fi 6 began in 2019 and can handle multi-gigabit internet speeds. It can also handle a much larger number of network devices at once, including smart light switches and smart speakers. Wi-Fi 6 routers also have next-gen. security protocols, like WPA3, and an extended range.

Wi-Fi 6E: Wi-Fi 6E is newer than Wi-Fi 6, with the E standing for “Enhanced.” Understanding Wi-Fi 6E is important for future-proofing devices. If you want something to last far for years, one of our picks for the best Wi-Fi 6 routers should be more than enough.

Range

Wi-Fi range is determined by the kind of router you’re using, the wireless protocol the router follows, and the space you’re in. 2.4 GHz Wi-Fi routers can reach up to 150 feet indoors and 300 feet outdoors and should be used if you’re looking for long-distance Wi-Fi. Routers running on 5 GHz bands can reach around one-third of these distances since it uses narrower wavelengths—because of this, you should choose a 5 GHz router for speed but only if your devices can be located nearer to your internet access point. Newer routers operate on both 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz bands to reach greater distances and achieve maximum throughput for devices in closer proximity. 

Walls, electronic devices, and certain other materials in between your device and the router can weaken the signal (which is why we’ve put together a handy guide to Wi-Fi extenders). 

FAQs

Q: How much does a router cost?

It depends on what kind of router you purchase. Router-modem combos can cost between $100-$300. A router by itself can cost as low as $50, depending on which one you purchase. And extra capabilities—like MU-MIMO, QoS, and VPN points—can up the price of a router. 

Q: What’s the difference between router and modem?

We’ve used this example before and we’re happy to use it again: The modem is the entire pie that Xfinity has baked, connecting you to all the internet that the company provides. Well, at least the slice of Xfinity’s pie you pay for. Your plan determines how large your slice is. The only way you can access that slice of pie is through a modem. Connecting a router to the modem lets you give bites of the pie you’ve bought to your phone, laptop, gaming console, and/or smart devices. A router will not serve many purposes without a modem.

Q: How long do routers last?

Between advances and technology and overall lifecycles, a router will last about five years. Some even say you should replace it every three to four years. Of course, routers that include newer Wi-Fi protocols will tend to lean on the five-year mark since they’re built to be future-proof. If you notice that your Wi-Fi range, speed, and connection are getting worse, it might be time for an upgrade. 

Final thoughts on the best routers for Xfinity

The best routers for Xfinity should accommodate your current internet plan but leave room to level up for faster internet speeds. VPN capabilities, Alexa compatibility, and app customization are a few add-ons that help you integrate other technologies into one device. At the end of the day, the best Xfinity router should make your life easier and worry-free from spotty internet.

The post The best routers for Xfinity in 2023 appeared first on Popular Science.

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The best Wi-Fi routers of 2023 https://www.popsci.com/gear/best-wifi-routers/ Thu, 16 Feb 2023 22:00:00 +0000 https://www.popsci.com/?p=512171
The best wifi routers
Brandt Ranj / Popular Science

Connect to the internet without dropouts, slow speeds, or other inconsistencies.

The post The best Wi-Fi routers of 2023 appeared first on Popular Science.

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The best wifi routers
Brandt Ranj / Popular Science

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Best Overall Eero Pro 6E eero Pro 6E
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Eero’s Pro 6E is the best Wi-Fi router available in 2023.

Best long-range TP-Link Deco X55 TP-Link Deco AX3000
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If you need to cover a large place with fast Wi-Fi, this is the system for you.

Best budget Vilo Mesh Wi-Fi System Vilo Mesh Wi-Fi System
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Vilo Mesh Wi-Fi System’s speed and range are impressive for its price.

If your home’s wireless internet network is flaky, or certain rooms of your home have been dubbed “dead zones,” an underpowered Wi-Fi router is probably to blame. This is especially true if you live with multiple people with an ever-growing list of devices. It’s often no longer sufficient to rely on the router/modem combo provided by your ISP (Internet Service Provider) for good service. Investing in one of the best Wi-Fi routers will guarantee you’ll have a strong, fast, consistent internet connection throughout your entire home.

How we chose the best Wi-Fi routers

A Wi-Fi router is the bedrock of your connected home and arguably the gadget you’ll rely on most throughout the day, so stability is paramount. We’ve done a mix of research and hands-on testing to determine which Wi-Fi routers to select for this guide, factoring in the size of your home, how many devices you have, the main reasons you’ll use the internet, and how much you’d like to spend. The good news is that there’s never been a better time to get a Wi-Fi router. Companies have upped their game substantially, making their networking gear more sophisticated and easier to use.

The best Wi-Fi routers will receive regular updates to continually improve their security and gain new features, but download and install them at a time when you won’t be interrupted. You can set up and manage these routers using apps rather than logging into them using an IP address—we’ve been there, and it’s not fun—which is especially handy for troubleshooting. Even budget-priced entry-level routers have these features, which is a good sign that home networking is being taken seriously. Finding the best Wi-Fi router amidst all this competition can be tough, but that’s why we’re here to help.

The best Wi-Fi routers: Reviews & Recommendations

The sudden rise of remote work and school, combined with everything from security systems to speakers to countertop ovens to toothbrushes becoming internet-connected and “smart,” has put a strain on aging networking gear. Various ISPs (Verizon, Comcast, Spectrum) can offer good modem-router combos, but if you don’t research carefully, you might find that comes at a higher cost with lower capabilities. Our selection of Wi-Fi routers comes from a wide variety of well-known and trusted brands that can relieve bandwidth congestion. Each router has a specific feature that helps it stand out, but all of them clear a set bar of quality. You’re sure to find one that fits your needs and budget.

Best overall: eero Pro 6E

Brandt Ranj / Popular Science

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Specs

  • Speed: 2.3Gbps
  • Range: 6000 square feet
  • Wi-Fi version: 6E
  • Mesh: Yes

Pros

  • Ultra-fast speeds
  • Supports the latest Wi-Fi version
  • Excellent coverage
  • Easy to set up and manage

Cons

  • Expensive

Eero continues to make the best Wi-Fi routers for most people over six years after its hardware debuted and brought mesh Wi-Fi routers into the mainstream.

In our tests, which included uploading and downloading large files while streaming video on a TV and downloading digital games on the Nintendo Switch, we never felt a reduction in performance. Granted, our tests were conducted using a Gigabit fiber optic internet connection, so your results will vary based on your internet package. We were sent a two-pack of Eero Pro 6E routers and mostly stuck to using one, which covered all but the deepest reaches of a three-floor condo.

We only had trouble in one far-off room on a different floor from the router, which necessitated installing the second router. The second router eliminated that one dead zone and improved the consistency of our network overall. If you have thin walls, there’s no reason why one of eero’s routers would be sufficient for your entire space. You always have the option to add additional eero routers to your home network since this is a mesh Wi-Fi system.

Setting up and configuring an Eero remains as straightforward as it ever has. The company’s app is world-class and makes the process seamless. We were guided through all the necessary steps to get up and running: Plugging eero’s router into an outlet, connecting it to our cable modem using an Ethernet cable, and waiting for its LED to flash blue, which let us know it was ready for setup. The only information you’ll need to enter is your desired network name and password. Once the router is configured, it’ll ask whether you want to set up any additional hardware and automatically check for a software update.

In our opinion, this is the way home networking hardware should always work. Eero’s routers do all the heavy lifting, with minimal—if any—maintenance needed to keep your network going. Another positive feature eero has going for it is the overall design of its hardware. These routers have no antennas, nor are they tall, monolith-like beasts that’ll draw unwanted attention from guests. The squat, bulbous Wi-Fi routers can sit on a desk or next to a cable modem without looking out of place.

Security-conscious users will appreciate the Pro 6E’s support of WPA3 and the option to fortify their network further with eero Plus. The paid service costs $9.99 per month or $99.99 per year and includes the ability to block ads, set up content filters, or block apps at the Wi-Fi router level. This means you won’t have to set specific parental controls on children’s devices or worry about them using a potentially malicious app on a smartphone or tablet. Eero Plus also includes subscriptions to 1Password (a password manager), Encrypt.me (a VPN), and Malwarebyte (antivirus software), to further protect internet-connected hardware on your network.

Eero’s Pro 6E routers have a pretty steep price tag—especially if you opt for the three-router package—but this is the type of big up-front, one-time purchase that’s well worth the money. Once these Wi-Fi routers are set up, you won’t have to worry about having a good internet connection again. We’re also encouraged by the fact that Eero supports its hardware for a very long time. Its first-generation routers received software updates and security patches until early this year. Eero also offers a 25% discount on its newer routers when you trade in old ones, which is a more useful (environmentally-friendly) option than throwing them out or keeping them in a drawer.

Best for gaming: NETGEAR Nighthawk Pro XR1000 Gaming Wi-Fi 6 Router

NETGEAR

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Specs

  • Speed: 5.4 Gbps
  • Range: 2500 square feet
  • Wi-Fi version: Wi-Fi 6
  • Mesh: No

Pros

  • Very high top speed
  • A USB port for use as a media server
  • Four Ethernet ports for wired connections

Cons

  • Its look is slightly garish

A strong, stable internet connection is imperative for online gaming, and if you can get beyond its confusing name and garish look, there’s a lot to like about NETGEAR’s Nighthawk Pro XR1000 Gaming Wi-Fi 6 Router. Its marquee feature is its top speed of 5.4Gbps, which guarantees lag-free wireless gaming if your internet package is fast enough. The Wi-Fi router is also equipped with four Ethernet ports if you want to wire up your gaming PC and three consoles for even lower latency (lag). These Ethernet ports are complimented by a USB port, which allows you to hook up an external hard drive and use this router as a media or file server. Many people won’t take advantage of that feature, but it’s nice to have.

Wireless networking has always been too slow for many fast-paced online games like first-person shooters. Players whose connections introduce even milliseconds of lag are put at a big disadvantage. Conversely, having your gaming PC or console hooked up to your Wi-Fi router with a cable can limit its placement options. Netgear has aimed to mitigate these issues by developing an operating system called DumaOS 3.0. This software, which runs on the XR1000, was designed specifically to address latency. It does so by automatically connecting to the fastest servers in your region and prioritizing internet bandwidth used by gaming hardware. Will it be perfect all of the time? No. But unless you’re playing online games competitively, you shouldn’t notice that much of a difference.

The XR1000 is a single-point router, which means its signal won’t reach as far as a multi-router mesh Wi-Fi system. If the range is your biggest concern, look elsewhere. That said, this router’s monstrously high speeds and gaming-specific features make it a great get if that’s your primary use case.

Best Wi-Fi 6: eero 6+

Amazon

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Specs

  • Speed: 1Gbps
  • Range: 1,500 square feet
  • Wi-Fi version: 6
  • Mesh: Yes (Potentially)

Pros

  • Easy to set up and manage
  • The potential to add more router later on
  • Sleek look

Cons

  • Locks you into a specific hardware ecosystem

Our experience with Eero’s higher-end hardware has been so positive that recommending its entry-level eero 6+ router was a no-brainer. The eero 6+ shares almost all of the same features as its higher-end sibling: an understated look, fast speeds, easy setup and maintenance, support for Eero Plus, in a smaller, single package. Eero offers the 6+ in a one-, two-, or three-pack to enable a mesh Wi-Fi setup, but we’re recommending a single router this time around because its 1,500-square-foot range makes it the perfect choice for many single-floor houses and apartments. The Eero 6+ isn’t quite as fast as the Pro 6E because it only supports Wi-Fi 6, but that won’t be an issue for everyday tasks like downloading files, casually playing games online, or streaming videos and music.

We like that eero offers the ability to scale up your network over time, adding new routers as your needs change, or technology evolves. For example, you can get a single eero 6+ at a relatively low price today, then pick up a multi-router Pro 6E bundle down the line and add them to your existing network. This modularity puts eero’s 6+ at an advantage compared to a typical single-point router. If all you need is a single Wi-Fi 6-compatible router for your home, eero’s 6+ is the one to get.

Best mesh: Linksys MX8503 Atlas Wi-Fi 6E Wi-Fi Mesh System

Linksys

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Specs

  • Speed: 8.4Gbps
  • Range: 9,000 square feet
  • Wi-Fi version: 6E
  • Mesh: Yes

Pros

  • Incredible top speed
  • Massive range
  • Broadcasts signal at three frequencies

Cons

  • Prohibitively expensive

In many ways, Linksys’ MX8503 Atlas Wi-Fi 6E Wi-Fi Mesh System is the best consumer-level wireless networking hardware available today. It has the highest top speeds, furthest range, most sophisticated wireless signal, and optimization features that ensure over 195 devices can be added to your network without suffering from wireless interference. The catch? The three-router system costs $800—on sale from its MSRP of $1000—which makes it a no-go for all but the most hardcore internet users with the fastest internet packages and greatest networking needs. If you’re one of those people, the MX8503 is peerless.

Its top speed of 8.4Gbps will max out any internet package currently available in the United States and can handle the 5-Gigabit connections as they roll out in select markets over the next few years. Getting these Wi-Fi routers now will futureproof your network for the next decade—or however long Linksys supports this hardware—where speed is concerned. We’re also confident that this three-router system will be able to cover your entire home given its range of 9,000 square feet, though you can add more routers if you feel that it’s necessary.

One of the reasons for the MX8503’s dominance is that it can connect to devices on three frequencies: 2.4 GHz, 5 GHz, and 6 GHz. Very few devices will be able to connect to the routers at 6Ghz, but the ones that do will enjoy the fastest speeds because there’ll be little to no interference. We’ve had the opportunity to test some of Linksys previous-generation networking hardware and found it pretty easy to set up and manage. The setup process is similar to eero’s, but we found the Linksys mobile app (iOS and Android) to be a little more cumbersome.

Linksys’ MX8503 Atlas Wi-Fi 6E Wi-Fi Mesh System isn’t necessary for many homes, but small businesses that occupy a floor of an office building may find the high-speed potential and range appealing. If money is no object, and you want to live your tech life on the cutting edge, don’t hesitate to choose these Wi-Fi routers.

Best long-range: TP-Link Deco X55

Specs

  • Speed: 3Gbps
  • Range: 6,500 square feet
  • Wi-Fi version: 6
  • Mesh: Yes

Pros

  • Expansive range
  • Optimizes its performance based on your usage patterns
  • Surprisingly reasonable price

Cons

  • Slightly lower top speed

If you have a multi-story home that needs a big internet upgrade, TP-Link’s Deco X55 is the best mesh router system for you. It covers 6,500 square feet, which is almost 10% more space than our best overall pick, from a three-pack of routers that costs less than half the price. Now the X55 is only Wi-Fi 6, which means its top speeds are lower than what’s on offer from eero and Linksys, but the value is still there. If you have an internet package that supports speeds of 500mbps or less, the difference in performance will be negligible—if any exists at all.

It should be no surprise that the best Wi-Fi solution for long-range needs is a mesh router system. For the best performance, we recommend setting one of TP-Link’s routers on each floor of your home. TP-Link says the routers will learn your usage patterns—which devices in which areas demand the most bandwidth—and optimize itself to accommodate your needs. That means the game console in the basement that routinely downloads large files will get priority over a bedroom TV streaming YouTube videos in HD. Smart home gadgets should do all these tasks in the background, so we’re glad TP-Link has built this feature into its hardware.

Our experience with older TP-Link link routers has always been positive, and we’ve been especially pleased with the company’s Deco app. TP-Link makes a whole host of smart home accessories, so it makes sense that it’s streamlined the setup process for internet-connected gear, but it’s still nice to see. If you’re totally new to mesh Wi-Fi routers, this is a good place to start. TP-Link says the X55 routers can automatically detect some security issues, but you can fortify your network with a paid HomeShield Pro account. The service, which costs $5.99 per month or $54.99 offers advanced parental controls, DDoS (distributed denial of service) attacks, and advanced protection for smart home accessories.

If you’re suffering from recurring network issues due to the size of your home, this set of TP-Link’s Deco X55 should fix them pretty easily. The range it offers at its price is also impressive, making it a particularly good value for those in larger spaces.

Best portable: NETGEAR Nighthawk M1

Netgear

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Specs

  • Speed: 150Mbps
  • Range: N/A
  • Wi-Fi version: 5
  • Mesh: No

Pros

  • Compact
  • Battery-powered
  • LCD display shows key information

Cons

  • Expensive

Netgear’s Nighthawk M1 is a mobile hotspot, which means it can connect to a cellular satellite using a SIM card and create a unique Wi-Fi network. If you’re a frequent traveler, this battery-powered device is a must-have since you can access the internet from your phone, tablet, computer, or gaming device. Its 150Mbps speeds may not be impressive compared to the other Wi-Fi routers recommended, but none of those can run on battery power or fit into a backpack or pocket. One of the M1’s most impressive features is its Ethernet port, which allows you to use it in place of a cable modem and connect it to another Wi-Fi router. In this mode, the M1 would receive data from a cellular satellite and send that data through a Wi-Fi router, which would then communicate with all your devices. You could create a whole-home mesh Wi-Fi router system anywhere in the world with this setup—though that would require lugging several Wi-Fi routers in your luggage.

The Nighthawk M1 is technically impressive, but it does have some limitations. It only works with AT&T and T-Mobile SIM cards, and the speeds you get will entirely rely on the strength of the 4G LTE cellular signal it receives. If you’re in an area with low bars, your Wi-Fi speeds will suffer. The good thing is that you’ll be able to see the quality of your network at a glance by looking at this router’s LED screen, which displays the strength of its cellular connection, battery life, how much time and data is left on your month’s internet plan, which network it’s connected to, and how many devices are connected to it. That’s a lot of information, but Netgear did a great job arranging it so that it’s easy to read and understand.

If portability is your primary concern, and you want to take Wi-Fi with you everywhere, Netgear’s Nighthawk M1 is the right gadget for the job.

Best budget: Vilo Mesh Wi-Fi System

Vilo

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Specs

  • Speed: 867Mbps
  • Range: 4,500 square feet
  • Wi-Fi version: 5
  • Mesh: Yes

Pros

  • Low cost
  • Solid range
  • Built-in parental controls

Cons

  • Not Wi-Fi 6 compliant

Let’s cut to the chase: Vilo is offering a three-router mesh Wi-Fi system for under $100 without making any serious compromises. That’s all you really need to know about this set of Wi-Fi routers, but it’s worth going into additional detail. Vilo’s routers support Wi-Fi 5 with speeds of up to 867Mbps and a range of 4,500 square feet. These specs are fine for common use cases like videoconferencing, downloading games, online shopping, and streaming movies. You can set up and manage these routers using an app and pick up additional ones to extend the range of your network down the line.

We like that Vilo allows you to set per-device restrictions and time limits on specific devices, so you don’t have to constantly look over a child’s shoulder to ensure they’re not looking at anything objectionable or wonder if they’re secretly on their phone after bedtime. The lack of Wi-Fi 6 support and lower speeds that come along with that will matter if you pay for a gigabit internet plan, but it’s a non-issue if you’re on a package that’s 300Mbps or less. You can eke out more performance from devices with an Ethernet jack by connecting them to one of Vilo’s routers directly. The difference in speed won’t be too big, but you may end up with a slightly more consistent connection.

All mesh Wi-Fi router systems used to cost several hundred dollars, and while the price of this networking gear has come down some recently, the value of Vilo’s Wi-Fi routers can’t be overstated. If you have a fairly large home and don’t need the fastest possible speeds for work or play, you can’t go wrong here.

What to consider when buying the best Wi-Fi routers

Below are the features we considered most important when determining the best Wi-Fi routers to select for this guide:

Speed

It’s hard to argue against speed being the most important factor in choosing a Wi-Fi router because it’s the likeliest reason you’re upgrading from the one you have. There are a couple of steps we recommend taking before picking up new hardware to determine whether or not it’s worth the investment.

First, see whether the speeds you’re getting from your current setup match up with the plan you’re paying for from your ISP. If all of the internet packages in your area are slow, getting a new Wi-Fi router isn’t going to make much of an improvement in this area. If you’re getting speeds far slower than what you’re paying for, and you’re using a standalone Wi-Fi router connected to your ISP-supplied modem, consider picking up an Ethernet cable that supports gigabit speeds. This cable will set you back less than $10, and may fix your issue. Finally, contact your ISP to see if there’s an issue on their end or if the hardware they supplied you is faulty. ISPs can reset your cable modem remotely, resolving a surprising amount of internet issues.

If you’ve followed these steps and still determined you want or need a new Wi-Fi router, make sure to choose one that supports a slightly higher speed than what you’re paying for. For example, if you’re paying for an internet connection that supports download speeds up to 100Mbps (megabits per second), pick a router that supports speeds up to 500Mbps. You’ll always lose some bandwidth between your Wi-Fi router and device—especially if there’s a wall in the way—so it’s better to be safe than sorry. Most modern Wi-Fi routers have maximum speeds that are several times higher than what an ISP can deliver, but it’s something to consider.

Range

If you’re looking to expand the size of your network, the first Wi-Fi router spec to look at is its range. For the best results, look at the size of your home and get a router that’s rated to cover an area that’s slightly larger to account for Wi-Fi signals getting weaker as they go through walls.

If you have a smaller home, you may only need a single-point router, which, as its name suggests, sends Wi-Fi signals out from one place. Single-point routers typically have multiple antennas, which can be arranged in different directions to help encourage even coverage. If upgrading from a modem/router combo provided by your ISP, you have experience with a single-point router.

We recommend getting a mesh Wi-Fi router system if you have a large home, dense walls, a lot of internet-connected devices, or any combination of the three. Mesh Wi-Fi systems rely on multiple routers placed in different parts of your home to create a giant network. Devices will automatically connect to the router closest to them, and you’re guaranteed to get better overall coverage with this type of system. The downside is that you’ll need to dedicate multiple outlets in different parts of your home to networking hardware.

Security

Nothing is more important than internet security, so choosing routers that support the latest encryption technologies was paramount. The routers we recommend support the third-generation Wi-Fi Protection Alliance standard, shortened to WPA3. This disallows outside interlopers from easily hacking into your network through security holes. That said, the best first line of defense against network hacking is a strong password. Your ISP-supplied modem/router combo will come with a network name and password, but it’s up to you to create a good one when you’re setting up your own hardware.

Wi-Fi version

You’ll see this tech spec a lot, but it’s less important than you may think. Basically, versions of Wi-Fi used to be classified by the number 802.11 followed by a series of letters. This became confusing because the letters didn’t follow a set pattern: For instance, 802.11N was worse than 802.11AC, which was worse than 802.11AX. The Wi-Fi Alliance moved to a numbered versioning system to help consumers distinguish between different models but has since muddied the waters a little bit. The current Wi-Fi standard is Wi-Fi 6E (the E stands for enhanced), while Wi-Fi 7 hardware was announced at CES (Consumer Electronics Show) in 2023. We’re only recommending Wi-Fi routers that support Wi-Fi 6 and Wi-Fi 6E for simplicity.

One important note is that Wi-Fi is a backward-compatible tech standard, which means your Wi-Fi-enabled devices don’t need to support the same Wi-Fi version as your router. If you buy a router that’s Wi-Fi 6E compliant but have gadgets that were made 10 years ago, you’ll have no problem connecting them to the internet. On the other hand, you’ll reap the full speed and connectivity benefits of your Wi-Fi router when you upgrade to newer hardware.

Wi-Fi bands

Most modern Wi-Fi routers have two bands, which means they send a signal at two frequencies: 2.4 GHz and 5 GHz. Older dual-band routers will actually create two separate Wi-Fi networks (typically shown as “Network Name” and “Network Name 5G”). In contrast, newer ones automatically connect to your device at the correct frequency. The benefit of sending a signal out at multiple frequencies is to reduce wireless interference. Many wireless technologies—wireless landline phones specifically—would use the same spectrum, which could reduce the effectiveness of your Wi-Fi router. Some routers have three bands, with the third reinforcing the 5 GHz spectrum.

Ethernet ports

The main purpose of a Wi-Fi router is the create (or extend) your home’s wireless network, but many of them also have Ethernet ports, which allow you to use them as a wired networking switch. The truth is that a wired internet connection will always be faster and more consistent than a wireless one—though the gap has closed significantly and is basically imperceptible in most cases.

FAQs

Q: What does a Wi-Fi router do?

A Wi-Fi router receives an internet connection from your cable modem and sends out a wireless signal, which your devices can receive and use to access the internet. A Wi-Fi router can also be used as a wired networking switch simultaneously.

Q: Will a better router increase internet speed?

This depends. Your Wi-Fi router will not get you faster speeds than the package you’re paying for allows you. However, it may allow you to get the top speeds you’re paying for more effectively than your current networking equipment.

Q: How much should I spend on a router?

This depends on the features you want, but you shouldn’t have to spend more than $100 on a Wi-Fi router.

Q: Should I consider a mesh router?

If you need to cover a large space with a wireless network, we recommend considering a mesh Wi-Fi system consisting of two or more routers. If you have a small space, a single-point router may be sufficient.

Final thoughts on the best Wi-Fi routers

A good Wi-Fi router should be practically invisible—a device that does its job without hiccups and allows you to connect to the internet with ease. The routers available in 2023 are faster, more reliable, and easier to set up and troubleshoot than ever before. You should be able to use them for several years regardless of how many Wi-Fi-enabled devices you bring into your home. If you’re planning to build a smart home, a solid Wi-Fi router is the place to start.

The post The best Wi-Fi routers of 2023 appeared first on Popular Science.

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You should try connecting a keyboard and mouse to your Xbox https://www.popsci.com/diy/xbox-to-keyboard-and-mouse/ Wed, 15 Feb 2023 13:00:00 +0000 https://www.popsci.com/?p=512320
Close up to a white Xbox controller on a black table.
Entering passwords with one of this is a nightmare. thiago japyassu / Pexels

Controllers are not your only option if you have an Xbox Series X/S.

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Close up to a white Xbox controller on a black table.
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When you buy an Xbox Series X or an Xbox Series S, the obvious move is to use the wireless controller that comes in the box. But if need them, these Microsoft consoles can also work with a keyboard and mouse—just like any Windows computer.

Hooking up extra peripherals to your console can make typing and navigating menus much easier, and if you want, you can also use them to play compatible games.

What to know before connecting a mouse and keyboard to your Xbox

The vast majority of wired keyboards and mice should work fine on your Xbox Series X/S. The only major restriction is that the console doesn’t support Bluetooth devices, so wired or dongle peripherals are your only options.

We couldn’t find any reports of any keyboards or mice that didn’t work with Microsoft’s gaming machine, perhaps because the underlying architecture is similar to Windows. So if you can plug the gadget into a USB-A port, you should be okay.

[Related: Xbox Series X vs. PS5: How to pick between the two biggest new game consoles]

Input devices with their own wireless USB dongles should also work well, but it’s more of a hit or miss. If you’re using a piece of hardware you already own, just give it a try to see if it’s a good match. But if you’re buying new, take a minute to look at the specs and make sure there’s a mention of Xbox compatibility. 

A keyboard and mouse setup allows for a lot more precision and fluidity in games, as you’ll know if you regularly game on PCs and consoles. However, while your keyboard and mouse will work everywhere in the Xbox menus, you won’t be able to use them in every game you play. And that’s not least because it would give you an unfair advantage over other players online using standard controllers.

If you need to know whether a specific title supports a keyboard and mouse, a quick web search is the easiest way to find out. Various sites maintain updated lists you can check out, but at the time of writing, some of the popular Xbox Series X/S games that support peripherals other than controllers include The Sims 4, Halo, Sea of Thieves, and Minecraft. Keep in mind that some games only offer limited support, so you might be able to use the keyboard for in-game chat but not for gameplay, for example.

Connecting a keyboard and mouse to your Xbox console

Connecting a mouse and keyboard to your Xbox is simple. All you need to do is plug your keyboard or mouse into a spare USB port on the Xbox Series X/S and you’re up and running. You’ve got three ports to choose from: two around the back of the console and one on the front. It makes no difference which ones you use.

If you’re these ports are already taken by other accessories such as a gamepad controller or external storage, you can connect a USB hub. This takes up one port on your console but adds a few extras for whatever you want. There’s no definitive list of compatible hubs to refer to, but most devices out there should work seamlessly. If you’re buying a new one, we’d recommend making sure that it specifically mentions Xbox Series X/S support, just to be on the safe side.

Note that the Xbox Series X/S consoles use USB Type-A ports, not the smaller USB Type-C, so pick your keyboard, mouse, or hub accordingly. If you already have your peripheral but it connects via USB-C, a simple and inexpensive adapter should easily do the trick: they’re about $10 and available from most electronics stores.

If you’re using a keyboard or mouse with a wireless USB dongle, follow the instructions that came with your device. Most of the time, connecting them to your Xbox is just a matter of plugging the dongle in and waiting a few seconds—it’ll automatically find the devices and get them working with the console they’re plugged into.

Configuring a keyboard or mouse on your Xbox Series X/S

Once your keyboard is connected to your Xbox Series X/S, it’s time to test it. Try navigating around the main Xbox interface, using the arrow keys to move, the Enter key to select, and the Esc key to go back. If you try running a search using the box in the top left corner of the screen, you should be able to type out your search using the keyboard.

The Xbox Series X/S have their own keyboard shortcuts as well. Tap Y to run a search, for example, Tab to go forward through items on the screen (or Shift+Tab to go backward), or Win+I to open up the main Settings panel. And if you can’t momentarily reach your keyboard, you can always keep using your standard controller, as one doesn’t replace the other.

[Related: The best Xbox One controllers of 2023]

Unfortunately, testing a mouse isn’t quite as easy. The peripheral won’t work on the main Xbox interface and menus, so you’ll need to open a compatible game or app to see if everything is working fine. You can refer to one of the online lists we mentioned earlier, but you can also try Microsoft Edge, which comes pre-installed in your console.

If you want to personalize your experience, there aren’t many configuration options you need to know about. There are none for a connected keyboard, but when it comes to the mouse, you can select the cog in the top right corner of the interface to get to the Settings screen. There, pick Devices & connections and then Mouse—you’ll able to change the pointer speed and swap the functions of the primary and secondary (left and right) mouse buttons.

The post You should try connecting a keyboard and mouse to your Xbox appeared first on Popular Science.

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The best Ethernet cables for gaming in 2023 https://www.popsci.com/reviews/best-ethernet-cables-for-gaming/ Mon, 01 Nov 2021 19:00:00 +0000 https://www.popsci.com/?p=405629
Best Ethernet Cables for Gaming
Mike Epstein

Never lose a match on account of crummy cable with the best Ethernet cables for gaming.

The post The best Ethernet cables for gaming in 2023 appeared first on Popular Science.

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Best Ethernet Cables for Gaming
Mike Epstein

We may earn revenue from the products available on this page and participate in affiliate programs. Learn more ›

Best Cat8 DaCrown CAT8 is the best ethernet cable for gaming. Dacrown Cat8
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Dacrown makes the best-reviewed consumer-grade Cat8 Ethernet cable that we could find.

Best braided DanYee CAT7 is the best ethernet cable for gaming. Danyee Cat7 Braided
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Among the best Cat7 Ethernet cables, Danyee’s braided design stands out as the most stylish.

Best Cat6 Amazon Basics CAT6 is the best ethernet cable for gaming. Amazon Basics Cat6
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Amazon Basics’ cable is the cheapest, most dependable Cat6 available in a wide variety of lengths.

Ethernet cables may not be the flashiest part of your rig, but they are an absolutely essential piece of gaming hardware. Wi-Fi is getting better all the time, and many people have effectively gone completely wireless, but even then you still need an Ethernet cable to connect the modem and router. Moreover, gamers know that having a wired connection to your PC or console is still unbeatable, whether you’re playing competitive matches, trying to maintain a steady Twitch stream, or just hoping to download the latest Modern Warfare update in time for you to actually play it before going to bed.

Though they aren’t complicated, Ethernet cables can be confusing. With new and improved standards coming out every few years, it isn’t always clear what’s changing and when you might need to upgrade your cables. We’re here to demystify terms like “Cat6” and “Unshielded Twisted Pairs” so you can find the best Ethernet cable for gaming to suit your particular needs.

How we picked the best Ethernet cables for gaming

Ethernet cables are fairly straightforward as far as consumer tech goes, so there aren’t a ton of different specs, variants, or subcategories to consider—cables do one thing. We’re looking for the ones that do it well. We combed through round-ups and reviews to see what other professionals recommended, but this isn’t a hardware category that lends itself particularly well to traditional criticism. Instead, we relied much more on collating consumer reviews to find the products that are most consistent and long-lasting.

All of this was, of course, filtered through extensive research into the history and current state of Ethernet technology, as well as decades of personal experience in home networking and online gaming—this very copy was submitted over our best flat cable. 

The best Ethernet cables for gaming: Reviews & Recommendations

Unless you’re really trying to scrimp and save, almost any Ethernet cable you’ll buy for gaming is going to be capable of handling way more bandwidth than your ISP provides. After deciding how much extra capacity you’d like to pad in, picking comes down to your particular needs—flat cables are easier to run under carpets or through door frames; extra weatherproofing lets you run cable outside and underground; braiding and colors can meet your aesthetic needs. Sometimes it even comes down to what lengths of cable the manufacturers sell. Each of these brands and specific recommendations was selected because they offer high performance and strong approval from their users.

Best Cat8: Dacrown Cat8

Why it made the cut: Dacrown makes the best-reviewed consumer-grade Cat8 Ethernet cable that we could find.

Specs:

  • Standard: Cat8
  • Frequency: 2000 MHz
  • Speed: 40 Gbps
  • Length: 5-150 ft
  • Shielding: S/FTP

Pros:

  • Extremely fast throughput
  • Durable PVC weather-proofing
    Wide range of available lengths

Cons:

  • Expensive

If you’re searching for the best Ethernet cable for gaming, then you’re going to naturally be drawn to Cat8 as the highest standard available right now. Many brands make Cat8 cables but we found that Dacrown’s edged out the competition in both consumers’ and critics’ reviews for delivering steady, high-speed internet at a relatively reasonable price. There is some debate among users about whether most consumer-grade Cat8 cable is “true” Cat8, capable of supporting the format’s full potential, but people who use Dacrown cables tend to be happy with their performance. For gaming, Dacrown’s Cat8 Ethernet cable will ensure a fast and solid connection for the foreseeable future.

Best braided: Danyee Cat7 Braided

Why it made the cut: Among the best Cat7 Ethernet cables, Danyee’s braided design stands out as the most stylish.

Specs:

  • Standard: Cat7
  • Frequency: 600 MHz
  • Speed: 10 Gbps
  • Length: 1.6-100 ft
  • Shielding: STP

Pros:

  • Excellent data speed
  • Multiple options for stylish nylon braiding
  • Flat

Cons:

  • Stiff
  • Nylon could fray

Virtually all Ethernet cables are coated in plain, monochromatic plastic. That’s fine if you’re able to discreetly run them out of sight, but otherwise magnifies the eyesore caused by poorly managed cabling. While several brands offer colored plastic, Danyee goes above and beyond with its series of premium nylon-braided Cat7 cables in four different patterns and colors. The cable is flat, which is helpful if you need to run it under carpet or through a door, and the nylon weave coating adds friction to reduce sliding around making this cable the best braided Ethernet cable for gaming. There’s one small downside: Since the cable features both nylon and PVC coating, the cable is stiffer and harder to manipulate. There are also rare reports of the nylon fraying with excessive handling.

Best flat: Jadaol Cat7

Why it made the cut: Jadaol’s sturdy, flat, and flexible cables are perfect for long and unobtrusive runs.

Specs:

  • Standard: Cat7
  • Frequency: 600 MHz
  • Speed: 10 Gbps
  • Length: 25-100ft
  • Shielding: STP

Pros:

  • Excellent data speed
  • Flat
  • Included clips

Cons:

  • Lack of length options

Standard Ethernet cables are round, but flat cables can be essential if you need to run them through tight spaces like under carpets or through walls. Jadaol makes the best flat Ethernet cable for gaming at various standards that are both durable and highly flexible, making it as easy as possible to run them around corners and through tight spaces without putting any strain on the wires within. The included nail-in clips aid this even further, making it quick and easy to neatly tuck the cable against the baseboard, around a door frame, etc. With only 25-, 50-, and 100-foot options available, it may be hard to get the exact length you need, especially for short runs. If you’re looking for a discrete, high-speed option to slip under rugs and behind furniture, though, these are the cables you need.

Best outdoor: Shinekee Outdoor Cat7

Why it made the cut: Shinekee’s heavy-duty outdoor cable delivers the full potential of Cat7 Ethernet in a form factor that’s tough enough to brave the elements.

Specs:

  • Standard: Cat7
  • Frequency: 600 MHz
  • Speed: 10 Gbps
  • Length: 25-200ft
  • Shielding: STP

Pros:

  • Excellent data speed
  • Heavy-duty PVC coating
  • Rated for outdoor and underground use

Cons:

  • Expensive

When you need to run your Ethernet outdoors, it’s absolutely worth spending a little more to get an outdoor cable that’s made to endure the elements. Shinekee’s outdoor cable has the same high-quality internals as the other cables on our list (shielded, twisted pairs of copper cable and gold connectors), but with an extra durable PVC coating that’s water- and UV-proof, and is rated for being buried underground. With a 200-foot option, it’s also the longest cable in our list by a wide margin and should maintain its full Cat7 speed at that length.

Best Cat6: Amazon Basics Cat6

Why it made the cut: Amazon Basics’ cable is the cheapest, most dependable Cat6 available in a wide variety of lengths.

Specs:

  • Standard: Cat6
  • Frequency: 250 MHz
  • Speed: 1 Gbps
  • Length: 3-50ft
  • Shielding: UTP

Pros:

  • Dependable gigabit performance
  • Good variety of size options
  • Great value

Cons:

  • Only Cat6
  • Maximum 50ft

Ethernet cables are right in the sweet spot for Amazon Basics. As a widely used commodity without much brand loyalty, it’s easy for Amazon to leverage its massive scale with inexpensive gear. If you just want dependable gigabit internet and want to pay as little as possible, Amazon Basics’ Cat6 Ethernet cable for gaming is hard to beat. It doesn’t go any longer than 50 feet, so you won’t use it for big projects, but there are more options at the short-run cables than any other brand on our list.

Things to consider before buying the best Ethernet cables for gaming

It’s very easy to get frustrated trying to look at the differences between Ethernet cables. The standard for telling cables apart is unique and confusing, making labels and product listing hard to understand. Here’s a little primer on how to separate the good Ethernet cables from the bad, whether or not you’re using them for gaming.

Pick your cable to match your internet service

Remember: The Ethernet cable is just a pipe (or a tube) for your internet connection. The maximum internet speed set by your data plan, measured in megabytes (or increasingly gigabytes) per second, sets the upper limit of what your connection is capable of. If your ISP limits you to 50 Mbps, then more advanced cables that can accommodate 10+ Gbps will be overkill. Going the other way, if you pay for a high-speed plan, then you’ll want to ensure you aren’t throttling it by using a sub-par cable.

Plan the work, work the plan

The length of Ethernet cables has a tangible impact on the quality of your service. The greater the length of the cable between a source and a receiver, the more the signal will degrade, effectively slowing down your internet. Ideally, you want to place your modem as close as possible to your router and other devices that you plan to connect via wired internet to minimize the distance of cable you need to connect them. 

To make your setup as efficient (and hidden) as possible, you should plan out your setup and figure out how to route your cables before setting up a device with an Ethernet connection. Once you know where things will be, measure the distance that the cable will need to run and then purchase a cable as close to that length as possible (while still of course giving yourself a little slack to work with). Ethernet cables are fairly cheap and the difference in price between the most and least expensive is especially small for short lengths of cable. It’s easy to justify a tiny splurge on a thoroughly future-proofed cable if you aren’t trying to wire up a whole house.

Herding “Cats”

The primary way that Ethernet cables are labeled is by “Cat,” short for category. The numbered categories—Cat1 through the most recent Cat8—refer to different generations of standards created by the Institute of Electric and Electronic Engineers (IEEE), a technology consortium that sets independent standards for many aspects of tech. IEEE standards ensure that each category is a notable jump in data transfer speed and efficiency while maintaining certain qualitative standards, including backward compatibility with older cables.

Since this list is for the best Ethernet cables for gaming, which requires fast and consistent internet, we recommend that you look for Cat7 or Cat8 cable, with Cat6 as a budget-conscious backup. All three tiers accommodate gigabit-plus internet, giving you full access to a high-speed connection. Cat5 is still in fairly common use, but the difference in price is so minuscule that you might as well at least go for six.

Cat6 supports a frequency of 250MHz, which translates to 1 Gbps over up to 100 meters of cable and 10 Gbps over up to 55 meters of cable. If you want to shoot for the moon, Cat7 runs at 600MHz, which translates to 10 Gbps over up to 100 meters of cable. It’s also more durable and features less signal distortion than lower categories. Cat8, the current top standard, jumps up to 2GHz, so it can support wild speeds of 25 or even 40 Gbps up over up to 30 meters of cable, or comfortably support 10 Gbps over 100 meters of cable. 

You may be thinking to yourself, “40 Gbps seems like incredible overkill for my 1 Gbps home network,” and you’d be right! Cat8 (like Cat6 when it was first introduced in the early 2000s) is primarily meant for enterprise applications for technology industry applications like data centers. 

That said, newer Cats are also held to higher construction standards that minimize noise and increase lifespan. If you’re buying large amounts of Ethernet cable to run through the walls of your home, you may consider spending the money to buy better cable that will last longer. While it’s primarily meant for businesses, Cat8 is available to the average consumer, and often marketed as the cutting edge of home networking.

Shielding, foil, and twisted pairs

All cables Cat6 and up are shielded from internal “crosstalk” (interference generated by other wires within the cable) by way of “twisted pairs,” which aren’t just the performative emo couple from your high school but refers to literally tangled wires that, through the magic of electromagnetics, somehow reduces noise.

Twisted pairs are just the baseline for modern Ethernet cable shielding. There are a few different varieties of cable, which you’ll want to know about when you pick your cable. UTP cables, or “unshielded twisted pair,” offer baseline protection, with no additional shielding beyond the twisting. STP cables, or “shielded twisted pair,” enhance that protection by adding a layer of shielding around all of the twisted pairs, minimizing external interference. FTP cables, or “foil twisted pair,” feature a layer of protective foil around each individual twisted pair. Finally, S/FTP cables combine the individual and outer shielding of FTP and STP cables for maximum protection against electromagnetic interference and crosstalk. 

Both Cat7 and Cat8 are required to have some shielding, so that’s another advantage to trading up. Cat6 is required to have UTP, but some cables offer more protection. Cat1-Cat5 are the wild west: They may have it, or they may not. Regardless, it’s worth checking what level of protection your cables offer.

FAQ

Q: Is Ethernet faster than Wi-Fi?

Yes. Wi-Fi has gotten fast enough that you can seamlessly do most internet browsing and even streaming video without the need to plug in, but gaming’s additional demands really highlight the gap between wired and wireless connections.

Q: Is Cat7 faster than Cat6?

As we mentioned, each generation or “category” of Ethernet cable is faster than the ones that came before it. Cat7 is capable of supporting a 10 Gbps connection. Cat6 maxes out at a 1 Gbps connection. Cat7 also has additional shielding over Cat6, which can also improve signal quality in addition to more raw speed.

That said, Cat7 cables are only faster than Cat6 cables if you have an internet service plan that can reach above a 1 Gbps connection. For many people, the cables will seem to be nearly identical.

Q: Are Cat8 cables worth it?

On the one hand, 40 Gbps is much, much more throughput than most consumer data plans allow, so very few people will be able to see the full difference between Cat8 and previous standards. On the other hand, the overall cost of Ethernet cable, especially over short distances, is low enough that you’re only paying marginally more to thoroughly future-proof your home LAN. Ethernet cables in general right now can handle far more than most home users need, so no matter what you should be able to more than meet your needs without breaking the bank.

The final word on the best Ethernet cables for gaming

Hopefully, this clears up any confusion you had about what you need to consider when buying the best Ethernet cables for your gaming experience. Wireless is fine for most things, but your PC, Xbox, or PS5 will really benefit from the speed and stability of a wired connection. The cables are relatively cheap and currently support much faster internet than most ISPs offer in most places, so Cat7 and Cat8 cables are an easy way to upgrade and future-proof your setup.

The post The best Ethernet cables for gaming in 2023 appeared first on Popular Science.

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The best productivity presents for home and office https://www.popsci.com/gear/best-home-and-office-gifts/ Mon, 12 Dec 2022 22:00:00 +0000 https://www.popsci.com/?p=496851
The best home and office gifts
We found the best home and office gifts of 2022. Brandt Ranj / Popular Science

Help family and friends improve efficiency and aesthetics with these thoughtful home + office accessories.

The post The best productivity presents for home and office appeared first on Popular Science.

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The best home and office gifts
We found the best home and office gifts of 2022. Brandt Ranj / Popular Science

We may earn revenue from the products available on this page and participate in affiliate programs. Learn more ›

If the 2020s have taught us anything, it’s that the line between your home and office is blurrier than ever. It has become increasingly thoughtful to get someone a gift that can help reduce their list of chores, improve their productivity, or kick back and relax after a long day at the office (in-home or on-site). Gifts in this category run the gamut from incredibly practical to downright extravagant, so there’s something for everybody. We’ve also been conscious of making sure our gift recommendations work whether you’re shopping for someone who rents or owns their place, be it an apartment or house. If you’re shopping for someone you live with, some of our best home and office presents below will also benefit you, so consider that a holiday bonus.

Best Wi-Fi routers: Amazon eero Pro 6E mesh Wi-Fi System

Amazon

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One of the keys to a happy home during the holidays (or any other time) is a fast, consistent connection to the Internet. Eero’s latest Wi-Fi routers support the latest wireless standard (Wi-Fi 6E), supporting speeds of up to 2.3 Gbps. For reference, Netflix recommends just 15Mbps to stream video in 4K, which is only .006% of the routers’ total potential bandwidth. If you’re shopping for someone who pays for a fast internet connection but finds their devices don’t get the speeds promised—or they have places in their home where their wireless connection is spotty—this is the optimal solution. Amazon says this two-pack of Eero routers can cover an area of up to 4,000 sq. ft., which should be enough for most homes, and it can be connected to over 100 devices without slowing down.

Best printer: Epson EcoTank ET-2400

Epson

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Every home or office needs an all-in-one printer for when a document needs to be scanned, printed, or copied. This may only happen a handful of times a year (unless the printer is living in a house with school-age kids), but you’re guaranteed to get a “THANK YOU!” text each time it does. We like Epson’s ET-2400 because its ink tanks are more efficient and eco-friendly than disposable ink cartridges. We also enjoy this printer’s relatively small size and sleek look. The ET-2400 supports wireless printing, so whoever you gift it can keep it anywhere in their office, not necessarily right next to a computer.

Best docking station: UGREEN Triple Display Docking Station

UGREEN

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The downside to laptops getting thinner and lighter is the loss of ports, which makes it annoying to connect accessories to them. If you know someone who’s always carrying around a bunch of adapters, you can simplify their life significantly by gifting them UGreen’s Triple Display Docking Station. This tool has three USB-A ports, one USB-C port, a microSD card slot, one SD card slot, a headphone jack, two HDMI ports, a DisplayPort, and an Ethernet jack. Your friend and family member can use UGREEN’s hub to connect their computer to three external displays and nearly a dozen other accessories with a single USB-C cable. The hub can even recharge their laptop while connected, which is an excellent bonus.

Just need a power present? UGREEN makes numerous recommendable solutions, including the 100W 7-in-1 DigiNest charging station, which uses GaN II technology to offer better conversion efficiency and heat dissipation in a compact form featuring 3 USB-C ports, 1 USB-A port, and 3 AC outlets.

Best office chair: Boulies Master Neo

Boulies

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Nobody thinks about ergonomics until their body starts hurting, so this gift serves two purposes. Yes, Boulies’ Master Neo was designed for gamers, but the chair is so comfortable that we can recommend it to anybody who works at home. The chair has ample padding on the back and bottom, height-adjustable arms, and a satisfying swivel. Most office chairs look boring, but the Master Neo is available in blue and pink colorways, which can add a nice pop of color to a plain-looking workspace.

Best mouse: Logitech MX Master 3S

Logitech

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Logitech’s MX Master 3S is the tech accessory office workers don’t know they needed. The Bluetooth mouse is shaped so an entire hand can fit on top of it, with a dedicated thumb resting on its left side. The MX Master 3S’ design makes it much more comfortable to use over long periods. Additional buttons on the side and top of the mouse give users quick access to different apps or system functions, which can save the person you gift it to several minutes every day. One of this mouse’s coolest features is the ability to pair it with up to three devices, so your friend or family member can use it with their work and personal computer. Nobody thinks about the computer mouse they use, but once you gift someone the Logitech MX Master 3S, they’ll never return to a generic wired one.

Best keyboard: Drop ENTR Mechanical Keyboard

Drop

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If you’re already gifting someone an ergonomic mouse, pairing it with a mechanical keyboard makes sense. Drop’s ENTR is an old school-looking keyboard that’s easy on both the eyes and fingers. It has a Windows key, but the USB-C wired keyboard can also be connected to a Mac without any issues. The sensation of typing on a mechanical keyboard after years of using the slim ones built into laptops is revelatory. The office worker who keys the ENTR will probably feel the difference in the first day or two. They may need to adjust the way they type slightly, but the difference in comfort is completely worth it. Our favorite feature of the ENTR keyboard is its backlit keys, which make it easier to work in the dark.

Best work desk: Hoek Home Office Desk

Hoek

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If you want to gift surface area to someone with limited space, Brooklyn, NY-based Hoek designs, machines, and hand-finishes quick-assembly furnishings that can hang flat on a wall when not in use (mountable wall cleat included). Fabricated-to-order before being flat-packed, this quality carpentry is a modular, minimalist workstation that’s up and running within seconds of arrival. Ultra-slim but extremely sturdy, the 42-pound fabricated-to-order tabletop (sustainably sourced maple or natural birch plywood, with a black colorway option) sits atop modular 100% recycled HDPE plastic legs that click in or out in seconds (no tools required) and store on the chassis’ underbelly when not in use. Measuring L 47.5″ x W 23″ x H 30″, with an integrated handle, the Home Office Desk offers a stylish, easily moveable workstation. And suppose later you want it further kitted out. In that case, you can purchase a perfectly paired CNC-meets-carpentry creation, including a monitor shelf, keyboard under-shelf, and/or a headphones/bag hook (or buy it all upfront as a discounted bundle). At $495 ($795 for the bundle), the Hoek Home Office Desk isn’t cheap, but you’re buying creative craftsmanship to let someone efficiently take advantage of their space.

Best wireless earbuds: Apple AirPods Pro 2

Apple

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Let’s not beat around the bush here: Apple’s AirPods Pro 2 are arguably the hottest holiday gift this season. Apple’s latest earbuds sound better, last longer, and cancel out more noise than the pair they replace while keeping the same iconic look, feel, and shape. Active noise cancellation is the biggest feature for office workers, as it’ll allow them to concentrate on work instead of being distracted by the sound of typing keys, swiveling chairs, or idle conversation. One of the most underrated features of the AirPods Pro 2 is the microphones, which are surprisingly good at picking up a speaker’s voice without much room noise. At their price, you won’t find a more well-rounded, fully featured pair of earbuds than the AirPods Pro 2.

Best headphones: beyerdynamic DT 700 PRO X

beyerdynamic

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Need a gift for an audiophile who listens to music in their home office and continues their play session hours after logging off? Maybe someone you know is setting up a starter home studio but also games? Get them beyerdynamic’s DT 700 Pro X over-ear headphones, which come from the makers of our overall best mixing headphones. What separates the DT 700 Pro X apart from the pack is the extremely soft ear cushions, which make the headphones extremely comfortable to wear while simultaneously isolating a listener’s ears from unwanted outside sounds without any tonality-altering circuitry. Additionally, the headphones clamping force (how much pressure the headphones push against a listener’s head to keep them on) was also calibrated to optimize comfort without sacrificing performance. The headphones also sound excellent, with deep bass, wide midrange, and clear-but-not-crispy treble that lets you identify stray frequencies in the mix or threats in the game. And, as we said earlier, anyone who loves listening to music at home will really like these headphones.

Best smart speaker: Amazon Echo (4th Gen)

Amazon

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If you know someone who’s been thinking about making their home smarter, but doesn’t know where to start, get them the Amazon Echo (4th Gen). Amazon’s latest smart speaker looks modern, has a surprisingly good dual-driver audio system, and will immediately become the hub of their smart home. Alexa, Amazon’s smart assistant, allows you to use the Echo hands-free, issuing voice commands to play music, get news updates, hear about the weather, play games, and even order products. Controlling smart-home accessories through the Echo is much easier using apps, which can be cumbersome and require your full attention. Saying, “Alexa, turn on the hallway light,” is a lot more intuitive. If you’re feeling extra generous, gift somebody two Echos so they can have this functionality in multiple parts of their home (plus an intercom system).

Best smart lights: Nanoleaf Lines

Nanoleaf

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Smart lights are the first smart home accessory we recommend gifting people if they already have a smart speaker, and Nanoleaf’s Lines are a lot cooler than a typical smart light bulb. The “lines” can be attached to one another and arranged in dozens of different configurations, and each one can be assigned a different color via an app on your phone. The Lines allow for a level of self-expression that makes them an especially good gift for children just beginning to have input on arranging their room. Nanoleaf’s Lines may also become a part of your friend or family’s holiday decorations, accenting other pieces they typically put up.

Best monitor: Dell S2722QC

Dell

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An external display will give your friend or family member a lot more digital space to work with, which can help improve their productivity or ability to multitask. There are a lot of monitors out there, but Dell’s S2722QC checks all the right boxes. The 27-inch 4K screen can display 1.07 billion colors and has HDMI, DisplayPort, and USB-C inputs so that you can connect it to any machine. The USB-C port should be of particular interest if you’re shopping for a MacBook owner since it’ll allow the display to charge their laptop while it’s connected. The S2722QC’s speakers aren’t anything to write home about, but they’re helpful in a pinch, especially if you’re gifting the monitor to someone who likes to keep their laptop lid closed while working. It’s a little more luxe than most monitors on the market, but the S2722QC is the one to get this holiday season.

Best monitor riser: Grovemade Desk Shelf

Grovemade

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Simple problems don’t have to get spartan solutions. Portland, Ore.-based design and fabrication shop Grovemade initially broke into the e-commerce ecosystem with engraved bamboo iPhone 4 cases and has been crafting an expanded range of workspace products ever since. A decade-plus later and the Grovemade Desk Shelf system, available in three sizes and multiple woods/finishes, is yet another product that shows how efficiency and ergonomics can be elegant. It’s a sleek platform to help align your virtual world with your real one, and it comes with shelf space that can store cords and keyboards or additional Grovemade trays, desk pads, and accessories you can add to your cocoon of productivity. Got some flagship headphones that deserve to be showcased? The Grovemade headphone stand is another statement piece that is as appealing as it is functional.

Best webcam: OBSBOT Tiny PTZ 4K Webcam

OBSBOT

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Webcams have become an essential home office accessory, and OBSBOT’s Tiny PTZ 4K Webcam is among the best we’ve seen. The camera can stream or record incredibly crisp video, and will automatically compensate for poor lighting conditions to help the person you gift it to look their best. What makes the Tiny PTZ 4K Webcam particularly distinctive is its rotating base, which allows the lens to track a person as they move up, down, left, or right. Free software provided by OBSBOT allows you to position the webcam perfectly and lock it in place, too. If you’re shopping for someone on a video call more than three times a week, this is a slam-dunk gift.

Best digital picture frame: Aura Carver Wi-Fi Digital Picture Frame

Sharing memories with less tech-savvy family members can be tough if you only see them a few times a year, which is why Aura’s Carver Wi-Fi Digital Picture Frame makes such a great gift. The 10.1-inch HD display can be loaded with photos remotely, so the person viewing them can keep up with your latest adventures. Multiple people can access the same frame so that siblings can share all of their family photos with parents or grandparents at once. Aura doesn’t charge for cloud storage either, so this picture frame will continue to show new pictures as long as it stays connected to the internet.

Best smart decoration: Twinkly Squares LED panels

twinkly

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Know someone who would want to automate some ambiance to elevate an environment? With the twinkly Squares, you can change the mood without changing location. These LED panels support 16 million colors and/or warm white light, and you can group them through an app for synced scenes of animated hues or 8-bit art. Bluetooth and Wi-Fi allow you to connect and control ON/OFF, dimming, timers, etc. Additional accessories like a USB sound sensor allow you to have your setup pulse and cycle to music. Other functions include integrating with Razer Chroma RGB or OMEN Light Studio for reactive lighting, and using voice commands via Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant, and Apple HomeKit. This starter set includes 1 master tile and 5 extension tiles (64 RGB pixels total), and someone can add as many as their wall and imagination allow.

Best retro decoration: Lava Colormax lamp

Stan Horaczek

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The Lava Colormax is our best overall lava lamp because it fills your room with psychedelic nostalgia without overwhelming your space. The base, cap, and glass all sport a tri-colored design that would feel right at home in a wood panel & shag carpet rumpus room or maybe the back of a conversion van with a dragon painted on the side of it. Or just bring that vibe to your standing desk. At 14.5-inches tall, it’s not overwhelmingly huge, and the 25-watt bulb makes it glow without bathing much of your room in light. Because it gets its tint from paint on the outside of the glass, the colors look bright and vibrant. It takes a solid two hours to really get the lava moving around inside the glass container but, given the chance, will make video calls to video games way more groovy.

Best TV: Hisense U8H

Hisense

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We can’t think of a better holiday gift than a new TV, and Hisense’s U8H is the gold standard in its price range. The set is available in sizes ranging from 55 to 75 inches, but the 65-inch model will be the sweet spot for most people. The U8H has four HDMI ports, two of which support 4K gaming at 120Hz with high dynamic range enabled. This is a big deal if the gamer in your life has a PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X, as they’ll be able to play cutting-edge titles at their highest levels of fidelity. The U8H’s 336 local dimming zones allow the TV to offer incredible contrast, while support for Dolby Vision ensures colorful scenes look clear and natural rather than being blown out. If you’ve been saving up to set that special someone up with a really big gift, this should be your first (and arguably only) choice.

Best soundbar: Sonos Ray

Sonos

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Need a gift for the person who’s already satisfied with their TV (or monitor)? The best answer is a soundbar, specifically the Sonos Ray. The Ray’s short size (only 21-inches wide) allows it to fit on any entertainment center without poking off the sides. Sonos designed the Ray’s drivers to point forward so that sound won’t reverberate off the sides of a shelf or a wall. Despite its small size, we were happy with how the Ray sounded in our tests. It wouldn’t distort during loud movie sequences with explosions or other sudden sound pops. You won’t find a better-engineered soundbar at the Ray’s size price, and avid movie watchers will immediately pick up on the audio upgrade.

Best media streamer: Roku Stick 4K

Roku

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If a less tech-savvy member of your friend or family group is trying to get into streaming the latest binge-worthy shows and blockbuster movies, there’s no better gift than a Roku Streaming Stick 4K. The ultra-slim media streamer is intuitive and has a simple remote plus dedicated buttons to take users directly to the most popular streaming services. The Streaming Stick 4K can playback video at its highest possible resolution, and supports every HDR (high dynamic range) standard to deliver vibrant colors. We can also recommend this accessory for people who often travel, as it’s easy to throw into a bag and hook up to a hotel or Airbnb TV, so you’re already logged into all of your streaming service accounts wherever you go.

Best wireless charger: Twelve South PowerPic

Twelve South

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Twelve South’s PowerPic is the most inventive wireless charger we’ve seen yet, and its unique design makes it an especially cool gift. The 10W wireless charging stand is built into a picture frame, allowing you to slip any 5×7-inch photo behind your phone’s resting spot. The picture will be revealed when the phone is not charging, so the PowerPic serves a dual purpose. If you know the person you’re gifting this to well enough, you can stealthily open the package, put in a meaningful picture, reseal it, then watch their face light up when it’s revealed.

Best gadget charger: Satechi Dock5

Satechi

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Satechi Dock5 is a practical gift for anyone with several family members or roommates. The accessory has two USB-A ports and two USB-C ports, with dividers between each port so several gadgets can charge without looking messy. A Qi wireless charging pad toward the front of the Dock5 can recharge a pair of wireless earbuds or another small tech accessory. We all have someone in our lives with a messy, cable-filled section of their kitchen or living room, and this gift can resolve that issue.

Best whiteboard: Quartet Glass Whiteboard

Quartet

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Quartet’s Glass Whiteboard is an unexpected gift that fully remote workers and students will immediately understand and appreciate. The large canvas is perfect for sketching ideas, collaborating on tough problems, or something as simple as a hand-drawn calendar. Most of us are used to having all this information on a screen. Still, something is satisfying about being able to directly write, slash, and erase your work immediately rather than fiddling with a mouse cursor or stylus. Plus, Quartet’s Glass Whiteboard looks so nice that it practically invites people to use it right out of the box.

Best smart board: Vestaboard

Vestaboard

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We’ve never seen anything quite like the Vestaboard, which perfectly typifies the concept of ambient computing. The internet-connected smart board contains 132 “bits,” which flip to reveal different characters or colors. You can send messages to the Vestaboard through the company’s app, which is intuitive to use and comes pre-loaded with a few quotes and color patterns to show you its potential. A paid service called Vestaboard+ allows you to use applications to automate the board in even more creative ways, like displaying the current song you’re listening to through a streaming service, current sports scores, or playing a word game.

This is the ideal indulgent gift for someone who spends a lot of time in their home office or wants a fancy family bulletin board in their living room. Vestaboard owners can grant other people access to their board, allowing friends and family to send messages. The Vestaboard is a unique canvas for people to display meaningful quotes, words of encouragement, or mini works of art. We guarantee the person you gift it to won’t have seen anything like it.

Best home gardening system: Gardyn 2.0 Hydroponics Growing System

Gardyn

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In our tests, the Gardyn 2.0 has fulfilled the promise of being a (mostly) hands-free gardening tool for anyone who lacks a green thumb but wants to grow food. Once it’s set up, the Gardyn will automatically provide the correct amount of light (via LED light strips) and water (through a refillable tank), so there’s no room for error. It takes up to six weeks for plants to reach their full size, and it’s inspiring to see the plants sprout and grow over time. Two cameras on the LED light strips will automatically take pictures of your crops at regular intervals so that you can chart their progress at any time.

The Gardyn is a premium gift, but one that’ll quickly become the hit of your home. Children can learn about how food (and plant life in general) grows and the value of patience. After a few months, you can have a feast featuring fresh vegetables you’ve grown yourself—even if you live in a New York City apartment like I do.

Have a backyard or balcony and an interest in growing greens? Another option is the Lettuce Grow Farmstand starter set. This vertical hydroponic growing system starts with 12 pre-sprouted plants in a tower just under 4-feet tall, but can be customized to your space and budget. It only takes minutes each week to add the water and nutrients necessary and, within a month, you’re enjoying pesticide-free veggies, leafy greens, herbs, fruits, and lettuce.

Best fire pit: Solo Stove Bonfire 2.0

Solo Stove

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If you’re shopping for someone who’s into backyard glamping , Solo Stove’s Bonfire 2.0 is the fire pit we recommend. It was designed to be “smokeless,” meaning a continuous flow of air, and an intelligently placed ash pan, prevent tons of smoke from billowing out of it constantly. There’ll still be some smoke but not enough to make your eyes water, which means campers can sit closer to it (but not too close) to enjoy its warmth. Solo Stove addressed our one complaint with the original Bonfire by making this model’s ash tray easily removable, which makes cleanup a breeze.

Best trash can: Brabantia Bo Touch

Brabantia

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Yes, we recommend you get someone in your life a trash can, but hear us out. Brabantia’s Bo Touch has a modern design that’s surprisingly eye-catching in person. Everybody needs a trash can, so why not gift them one they won’t mind looking at several times a day for decades? We also like the Bo Touch’s namesake feature: the ability to open and close its lid by lightly pressing it. Brabantia offers the Bo Touch in a handful of configurations, but the one we recommend has a single 9.5-gallon slot for trash. The person you gift this to may be confused initially, but they’ll quickly change their tune.

Most practical tech accessory: SnapPower GuideLight for Outlets

Snap Power

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We’ve all used a phone flashlight to navigate around the house, which is why we’re certain about gifting SnapPower’s GuideLight to just about anybody in your life. The plate attaches to any duplex outlet and has a couple of small, downward-facing LEDs, which get triggered every time somebody walks by. All you need to install the GuideLight is a screwdriver; no previous electrical engineering experience is required. There’s not much to say about the GuideLight, but it’s an incredibly practical tool that’ll fit in anybody’s home.

Best desk lamp: Cricut Bright 360

Cricut

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With four points of articulation and 1,500 lux of adjustable brightness, the Bright 360 Table LED Lamp is a fabulous addition to your workstation whether you’re examining the accents of a project, taking pictures for an online shop, or trying to look less shadowy and/or sallow on a video call. It’s easy to maneuver, offers a range of color temperatures from warm to cool white, and is one of those quick and easy upgrades that make a world of difference. Whether you’re precision-cutting patches or copy-and-pasting paragraphs, you should be able to appreciate all the fine details of your work. And if you’re sitting through yet another online “face-to-face,” you should look your best. This light lets you do all of that and more. Speaking of more, there’s also a floor-lamp variant.

Best under-desk seated elliptical: Cubii MOVE

Cubii

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Ever feel like you’re just shuffling your feet, waiting for people to get back to you or for everyone to join a video conference? Feel like you’re just spinning your wheels, waiting for tech support to figure out what’s wrong with your laptop? Well, you—or your gift recipient—can turn purgatory (or any other time) into a type of productivity with one of the many compact Cubii under-desk elliptical systems. Aimed to help folks “get fit while you sit,” the low-impact apparatus turns fidgeting into function as you activate multiple muscle groups at the pedaling intensity you prefer, thanks to six selectable resistance levels. Whisper-quiet, the MOVE can live underneath your desk for daily use without distracting others but, at under 20 lbs, can also be easily moved if needed.

Best robot vacuum: ECOVACS DEEBOT X1 Omni Robot Vacuum and Mop

ECOVACS

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ECOVACS’ DEEBOT X1 Omni Robot Vacuum and Mop can do two annoying chores and does a surprisingly good job making your floors look neat. The vacuum’s sensors allow it to clean around obstacles like chairs, shoes, and walls without bumping into them and will prevent the DEEBOT X1 from falling down a flight of stairs. Additional sensors will know when the robot vacuum has hit a particularly dirty flooring patch and focus its energy there. Once done, the robot vacuum will return to its base to charge, emptying its dirt and dirty water into two chambers in its base. The DEEBOT X1 can be set on a schedule to clean when your friend or family member is out of the house, so they won’t have to hear the whirring sound of a vacuum ever again. Ultimately, this is one of the few smart home tools that will truly save your friend or family member time.

Best over-the-top gift: Kül Water Dispenser

Kül

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If you’re shopping for someone who’s really into health and hydration, or really misses the office experience of gathering around the water cooler to talk about the latest must-see TV, throw caution to the wind and get them the Kül Spark. The $1,500 water purification system can be hooked up to their plumbing and create cold, hot, ambient (room temp), or sparkling water free of over 80 contaminants. Don’t worry, there’s also the option to use a refillable water tank. We’ve tried the Kül Spark for ourselves, and the difference in taste is real. The Kül Spark’s ability to dial in the perfect temperature is equally impressive. A touch-sensitive control panel on the right-hand side of the machine makes it easy to choose which type of beverage you’d like to make or change certain settings. You can even see stats like how long it’s been since you’ve changed your filter, or how full your CO2 cartridges are. Yes, it’s luxe, but the Kül Spark is an incredibly generous gift for anyone who’s overly confident that their kitchen or home office has “everything.”

Best for the bathroom: Kohler Moxie Bluetooth Showerhead

Kohler

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Do you know a bathroom karaoke superstar? Or someone who likes to start their day catching up on podcasts? No gift will make them happier than Kohler’s Moxie Bluetooth Showerhead. Installing it requires you just twist off your old showerhead and spin on the new one, a process that takes two minutes. A waterproof Bluetooth speaker sits in the center of the shower head, pumping out tunes or talk for several hours before needing to be recharged. The speaker was developed by Harman Kardon and sounds pretty good. Importantly, it’s easy to turn on and off with wet and soapy hands. This is one of those gifts they’ll never see coming, and will use every day.

Best note-taking tablet: BOOX Note Air2 Plus

BOOX

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BOOX’s Note Air2 Plus is a large e-ink tablet for reading and note-taking. It’s expensive but well worth the price if you need a big gift for someone whose work or school program requires them to take copious notes. The 10.3-inch e-ink tablet runs Android, so the person you gift it to will have access to download specific apps for reading, note-taking, or opening specific file types like PDFs. Much of this functionality is built into the Note Air2 Plus, but, if they’re already familiar with an app, or need a specific piece of software as part of their workflow, the Note Air2 Plus will accommodate their needs far more than a Kindle or other e-Ink tablet. The tablet comes bundled with a stylus, which was remarkably responsive in our tests, allowing us to confidently write on it without worrying about missing a line or digital pen stroke. This is a very specific gift, but if you know someone who has filled up their fair share of notebooks, and wishes they could take all that information with them, this will become their go-to gadget.

Best surge protector: Austere VII Series Power 8-Outlet 

Austere

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This gift may not immediately impress, but is incredibly important for the home office worker. Austere’s VII Series Power 8-Outlet will protect their equipment in case of a sudden power surge, which could fry their computer, monitor, and other expensive tech accessories. Gifting someone this surge protector could save them thousands of dollars in the long run. We like Austere’s VII Series Power 8-Outlet because of its sturdy construction, seven-year guarantee, and USB ports, which allow you to charge smaller devices without taking up one of the outlets with a power adapter. Is this gift practical? Extremely. But no home office is truly complete without one.

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The best monitors for Xbox Series X in 2023 https://www.popsci.com/reviews/best-monitors-for-xbox-series-x/ Tue, 15 Feb 2022 16:00:00 +0000 https://www.popsci.com/?p=424565
The best monitors for Xbox Series X
Brandt Ranj / Popular Science

Everything you need to know about playing your Xbox Series X on a PC monitor.

The post The best monitors for Xbox Series X in 2023 appeared first on Popular Science.

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The best monitors for Xbox Series X
Brandt Ranj / Popular Science

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Best 4K monitor Best Monitors for Xbox Series X ASUS TUF Gaming VG289Q
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The ASUS TUF Gaming VG289Q is a great entry-level 4K monitor that strikes a balance between quality and cost.

Best overall Best monitors for Xbox Series X Philips Momentum 559M1RYV
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The Philips Momentum is a huge, fast display optimized for the Xbox Series X, with a high-quality built-in sound system for good measure.

Best budget gaming monitor Best monitors for Xbox Series X Gigabyte AORUS FV43U
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The Gigabyte Aorus FV43U hits all the same performance benchmarks as our top choice, but for substantially less money.

The Xbox Series X is one of the most powerful home consoles of all time. With Xbox Game Pass, the Netflix-style game library subscription, expanding all the time, now is the perfect time to grab Microsoft’s newest 4K-capable game console. It plays both Xbox Series and Xbox One games in 4K at a rock-solid 60 frames per second, with some games already running at 120fps. Microsoft also promises 8K capability is on the way, once there’s a critical mass of content and screens rise to the challenge. While we generally associate console games with TVs, many players prefer the expanded configuration options of PC monitors, even for console gaming. To get the most out of the Xbox Series X, however, requires a fairly high-end gaming monitor. We’ve rounded up the best monitors for Xbox Series X to help you find the right panel to unlock all of its power.

How we selected the best monitors for Xbox Series X

Through testing, reading monitor reviews, and a lifetime of experience in both console and PC gaming, we surveyed modern monitors on the market right now and drilled down on those capable of showcasing the Xbox Series X’s graphical specs. We selected monitors that are all well-reviewed and offer solid value for their price, including both overall top choices as well as products that selectively cut corners to reduce cost, with options that preserve resolution and frame rate.

The best monitors for Xbox Series X: Reviews & Recommendations

True to Microsoft’s PC roots, the Series X offers a more generous range of monitor compatibility than any other console on the market. That means the “best” monitor for you depends entirely on your priorities. No matter your budget or interests, we’re confident that you’ll be able to find a great fit among our selection below to really make the best Xbox Series X games pop.

Best overall: Philips Momentum 559M1RYV 

Phillips

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Why it made the cut: The Philips Momentum is a huge, fast display, optimized for the Xbox Series X, with a high-quality built-in sound system for good measure.

Specs

  • Resolution: 4K (3840 x 2160)
  • Refresh Rate: 144Hz
  • Size: 55 inches
  • Ports: HDMI 2.1 (3) DisplayPort 1.4, USB-C (1), USB-B (1), USB 3.2 (4)
  • Panel Type: VA
  • HDR: DisplayHDR 1000

Pros:

  • 4K/144Hz
  • HDMI 2.1
  • TV-sized 55-inch panel
  • Built-in sound bar

Cons: 

  • Expensive

Philips made one of the first “Designed for Xbox”-certified monitors for the Xbox Series X and it’s a doozy. At 55 inches, the Phillips Momentum looks more like a television but has all of the fine-grained control and port options that you would expect from a dedicated gaming monitor. It hits all of the console’s top specs with 4K, 144Hz, HDMI 2.1, and HDR. It also includes a fantastic built-in Bowers & Wilkins 2.1-channel stereo soundbar, as well as Ambiglow lights on the back that can be programmed to match your content. VA (Vertical Alignment)-type panels, compared to IPS (In-Plane Switching) ones, historically sacrifice a bit of speed in order to get rich colors and contrast, but the Momentum has been built from the ground up for gaming and excels even when your game moves at top speed.

Best budget gaming monitor: Gigabyte AORUS FV43U

Gigabyte

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Why it made the cut: The Gigabyte Aorus FV43U hits all the same performance benchmarks as our top choice, but for substantially less money.

Specs

  • Resolution: 4K (3840 x 2160p)
  • Refresh Rate: 144Hz
  • Size: 43 inches
  • Ports: HDMI 2.1 (2) DisplayPort 1.4 (1), USB-C (1)
  • Panel Type: VA
  • HDR: DisplayHDR 1000

Pros

  • 4K/144Hz
  • HDMI 2.1
  • Great HDR and accurate color
  • Low price for the spec and size

Cons

  • Narrow viewing angles
  • Fixed stand

The Gigabyte Aorus FV43U is an incredible deal among the small number of HDMI 2.1-compatible monitors available right now. Like our top choice, it has a 144Hz refresh rate, 4K resolution, and a VA panel with fantastic contrast and color gamut, making them functionally equivalent in many situations. At 43 inches, it also sits squarely between monitor- and TV-sized displays, which is great if you want a big screen but may be a problem if you want to adjust your monitor’s viewing angle the way you would with a standard PC monitor. User reviews also suggest that its colors get a little washed out as you move away from the center. That said, those are relatively wonky caveats on a monitor that costs hundreds of dollars less than our top pick.

Best 1440p 144hz monitor: LG 32GK650F-B

Why it made the cut: LG’s 32GK650F-B is the best 1440p gaming monitor we could find to take advantage of the Series X specs.

Specs

  • Resolution: 2560 × 1440p
  • Refresh Rate: 144Hz
  • Size: 32 inches
  • Ports: HDMI 2.0 (2) DisplayPort 1.2 (1)
  • Panel Type: VA
  • HDR: N/A

Pros

  • 144Hz
  • Smooth performance
  • Rich, uniform blacks
  • Under $500

Cons

  • Not 4K
  • No HDR
  • Weak viewing angles

Everyone’s making the jump to 4K in TVs, but you may care more about frame rate and customization if you’re using a monitor instead. Since the Xbox Series X supports 1440p resolution, an increasingly popular choice for frame-rate-focused PC players, we thought you might want an option that caters to that spec.

The LG 32GK650F-B is an excellent-value 1440p monitor that’s optimized for gaming. Although it lacks HDR, the VA panel has excellent color depth and accuracy as a baseline. The viewing angles also leave something to be desired, but as a gaming-centric display that’s just not as much of a concern, and sacrifices are to be expected for such an otherwise high-performing monitor at such a low price relative to the rest of our list.

Best 4K gaming monitor: ASUS TUF Gaming VG289Q

Asus

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Why it made the cut: The ASUS TUF Gaming VG289Q is a great entry-level 4K monitor that strikes a balance between quality and cost.

Specs

  • Resolution: 4K (3840 x 2160p)
  • Refresh Rate: 60Hz
  • Size: 28 inches
  • Ports: HDMI 2.0 (2) DisplayPort 1.2
  • Panel Type: IPS
  • HDR: HDR10

Pros

  • 4K
  • Great value

Cons

  • Middling HDR

Playing games running at 120fps sounds exciting on paper but, realistically, you’re looking at diminishing returns at higher and higher frame rates. The debate is still open on the ceiling for what the human eye can perceive, but 60fps is the current gold standard for silky smooth precision gaming and will be more than enough for all but the most hardcore competitive gamers looking to eke out every possible marginal advantage. The ASUS TUF Gaming VG289Q delivers excellent, color-accurate 4K graphics at a steady and still-reasonable 60Hz. While less than perfect for the Series X on paper, many games still run at 60fps in 4K, making this a perfectly reasonable compromise.

Best TV: LG C2 OLED 

Why it made the cut: If cost is not a concern, LG’s OLED TVs are the gold standard for incredible image quality with no compromise in responsiveness.

Specs

  • Resolution: 4K (3840 x 2160p)
  • Refresh Rate: 120Hz
  • Size: 48 inches
  • Ports: HDMI 2.1 (4), USB 2.0 (3)
  • Panel Type: OLED
  • HDR: Yes

Pros

  • 120Hz on a TV
  • HDMI 2.1
  • Incredible blacks and color range
  • Wide viewing angles

Cons

  • Very expensive compared to monitors
  • Burn-in risk

All of the monitors on our list feature LCD technology, which requires a backlight, but the next generation of screens are starting to shift over to new display technology. An organic light-emitting diode, or OLED, display lights each pixel independently, allowing for brighter colors and rich, perfect blacks. If you want an OLED display right now, you need a TV, not a monitor.

LG’s C2 OLED is realistically the best TV for gaming right now. It features all of the top specs you need to get the most out of the Series X, including 4K resolution, a 120Hz refresh rate, and HDMI 2.1 ports so you can achieve those specs. Our top monitor, the Phillips Momentum, is just as big as a TV. The LG C2 is sort of the opposite side of the same coin: a TV with many of the technical advantages you’d find in an Xbox-friendly monitor.

What to consider when buying the best monitors for Xbox Series X

Microsoft’s long history with PCs and PC gaming means that the Xbox Series X is probably better equipped to work with most gaming monitors than any other console, past or present. While most monitors will technically work with the Series X, not all will be able to support its full capabilities. Microsoft has helpfully added monitors to its Designed for Xbox hardware partnership program, which highlights gear that’s fully certified to work with it, but that only covers a tiny fraction of the compatible monitors available on the market. Premium graphics tend to come at a premium price, so if you can’t shell out more than the cost of the console itself for a top-tier display, you should primarily decide whether you care more about resolution or frame rate, which broadly map onto whether you care more about sharper visuals or smoother gameplay. 

What is HDMI 2.1?

As many of the best gaming monitors can attest, the PC gaming community continues to shift toward DisplayPort cables for your monitor connectivity needs. It’s worth noting because the Xbox Series X (and PlayStation 5) ideally call for HDMI 2.1, the latest iteration of the more ubiquitous HDMI cable

Despite the fact that the connectors look the same as older iterations of HDMI, HDMI 2.1 greatly increases how much data moves from computer to screen. HDMI 2.0 offers a maximum data transmission rate of 18 gigabits per second, allowing you to output video and games in 4K resolution at 60Hz, or in 1080p resolution at up to 240Hz. With HDMI 2.1, the maximum jumps up to 48 Gbp/s, allowing computers—including game consoles—to play 4K video at up to 180Hz, or in 8K at 50Hz.

For the Xbox Series X in particular, HDMI 2.1 gives you the chance to play games in 4K resolution at up to 120fps. Not every new game supports that high spec, but a growing list of modern Xbox games can make it happen. The Series X and all of these monitors are also compatible with older HDMI monitors and cables, but the display won’t be able to show games running above 60fps in 4K. 

While Microsoft claims the Xbox Series X hardware can handle 8K gameplay, the console doesn’t support 8K gameplay. Microsoft has promised to unlock 8K in the indeterminate future, which will require a frame rate trade-off even with HDMI 2.1. 

Aspect ratio and resolution

Speaking on 4K and 8K, let’s talk about the size and shape of your monitor. Generally speaking, we recommend picking a monitor’s size based on the resolution you plan to use for your games. Since the Xbox Series X outputs at 4K resolution, you’re ideally going to get a big monitor: 32 inches or more.

Resolution refers to the number of pixels on screen, with higher resolutions being capable of more fine-grained detail and smoothness. Unlike the limited monitor resolution options on the PS5, Xbox Series X supports an impressively wide range of resolutions: Standard HD (1280 x 720 pixels), (confusingly also named) Standard HD (1920 x 1080 pixels), Quad HD (2560 × 1440 pixels), and Ultra HD/4K (3840 x 2160 pixels). 

Unlike with TVs, 4K is not ubiquitous on PC monitors. In fact, a large 4K monitor will be quite expensive. If resolution isn’t your top priority, sacrificing 4K and going with a 1440p/144Hz monitor for the best possible performance without sinking a ton of money into your new display.

If you’re planning to buy a monitor for playing console games, you should stick to a conventional aspect ratio. Aspect ratio refers to the proportion between length and width of the screen, defining standard shapes at which content can be created and scaled. The Xbox Series X only outputs at 16:6 “widescreen,” the most common aspect ratio used in contemporary screens. Although curved 21:9 “ultrawide” monitors are a growing niche among enthusiast PC gamers, it’s still too small a niche to merit Microsoft’s support yet.

Refresh rate, response time, and input lag

When judging how smoothly a game animates, frame rate is king. Refresh rate, measured in hertz (Hz), determines the highest possible frame rate at which a game “runs.” More precisely, it refers to the number of times per second a monitor can “draw” an image on your screen. Even if a console is powerful enough for a game to run at 120 frames per second and the game supports that spec, you won’t be able to see it unless the monitor can refresh at that speed.

Frame rate rarely matters for TV and film, which are still traditionally filmed at 24fps, but frame rate matters quite a bit in games, which is why TV manufacturers have started to make more high-frame-rate TVs in 2023. In a video game, more frames translate into smoother animation and, often, more information. Being able to more quickly and subtly perceive motion can give you an edge in action-oriented games, especially when playing against other people online. During the PS4 and Xbox One era, frame rates between 30fps and 60fps were the standard. The PS5 and Xbox Series X have now raised the bar to between 60fps and 120fps.

Thus, in order to get the most out of your console, you’re going to want a monitor with a max refresh rate of 120Hz or higher. As with resolution, there are other options available aimed at PC players. You can find monitors that go up to 240Hz or even an absurd 360Hz, which really pushes the border of what the human eye can perceive. The Xbox Series X caps the frame rate at 120fps, though, so don’t pay for frames you don’t need. The most common refresh rate to meet the 120fps standard is 144Hz, so that’s what you’re looking for.

Variable refresh rate

Variable refresh rate has become a major technology for gaming displays, allowing the monitor to smoothly ramp the frame rate up and down to match computational performance. It allows for consistently crisp graphics and fewer visual artifacts, especially when there is a lot of fast motion, which happens a lot in video games. The two primary graphics card manufacturers, Nvidia and AMD, both have their own versions of variable refresh rate technology: Nvidia G-Sync and AMD FreeSync. The Xbox Series X support FreeSync, so you want to keep an eye out for FreeSync monitors and, in many cases, avoid G-Sync monitors, as they tend to be more expensive.

What about HDR?

The Xbox Series X also supports one of the latest in-vogue display technologies: High Dynamic Range, or HDR. HDR creates a wider range of in-game darkness and light on 4K monitors with high brightness and color contrast. HDR monitors are brighter overall, with richer, more accurate colors and more nuance in both shadows and bright areas, making images pop more overall. 

To create that enhanced brightness, you need a very bright display, so HDR can be a strength or a weakness for any modern display. Some monitors technically feature HDR support but lack the maximum brightness to create a true range of lighting conditions. When considering a monitor’s HDR, you want to check its brightness settings: Look for a maximum brightness of at least 500 to 600 nits, ideally with a feature called full-array local dimming, which determines how much the monitor can change the brightness of specific parts of the screen.

In addition to supporting HDR10—the most common, open standard that PC monitors use almost exclusively—the Xbox Series X is also the first console to support Dolby Vision, which is a proprietary alternative HDR standard that’s slightly better than HDR10 by virtue of being “dynamic” (basically including more data by tweaking brightness and contrast frame by frame). For now this only really applies to televisions, however, as Dolby Vision is extremely rare among monitors and those that do are geared toward photo and video work, not gaming.

FAQs

Q: How much does a monitor for Xbox Series X cost?

The Xbox Series X supports a wider range of monitor specs than any other console, current or previous, with 1080p, 1440p, 4K+, and 30fps to 120fps. That means the cost varies quite a bit as well. Our list spans from around $1,500 at the high end to $300 at the budget end, but you could go even lower still, closer to $200, if you wanted a still-solid 1080p high-frame-rate monitor. 

Q: Is HDR good for gaming?

Yes, the way good HDR makes visuals really pop is just as applicable to games as it is to movies and television. The Series X is also arguably the most HDR-friendly console to date, with automatic calibration, retroactive addition to backward-compatible titles, console-first Dolby Vision compatibility. 

Q: Is a curved monitor better for gaming?

“Better” is really a matter of taste, but the advantages people associate with curved monitors—reduced eye strain, more integrated peripheral vision, enhanced “immersion”—all map well to the priorities of gaming. That said, the Xbox Series X does not support any aspect ratio wider than 16:9, so players will not be able to really use a curved monitor as intended. As such, we do not recommend buying a curved monitor to use with an Xbox Series X (or any console, for that matter).

Is a 4K monitor worth it for Xbox Series X?

Yes. The Xbox Series X is able to play some games at a native resolution of 4K. Titles that support that resolution will look far sharper than they would at full HD (1080P). The extra resolution won’t hurt if you use the monitor with your computer for work, as it’ll give you a larger digital workspace to work with.

Can Xbox Series X hit 144Hz?

No. The Xbox Series X tops out at 120Hz.

Is a 32-inch monitor too big for gaming?

No. Many gamers play Xbox Series X games on a television as large as 65-inches (or higher). Most computer monitors aren’t that large, but a 32-inch monitor will provide a better gaming experience than smaller ones if they both have the same technical specs.

The final word on the best monitors for Xbox Series X

Chip shortages mean that the Xbox Series X is still a precious commodity more than a year into its lifecycle. If you’ve conquered the global supply chain to get your hands on one, it would be a real waste to not also make sure your display is up to the task. Fortunately, Microsoft supports a generous range of display specifications on the Series X, so once you’ve sorted out your budget and priorities, the perfect monitor is just out there waiting for you.

The post The best monitors for Xbox Series X in 2023 appeared first on Popular Science.

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The best resin 3D printers of 2023 https://www.popsci.com/gear/best-resin-3d-printers/ Tue, 30 Aug 2022 20:00:00 +0000 https://www.popsci.com/?p=465854
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Stan Horaczek

Build the Warhammer army of your dreams with these 3D printers.

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Best overall ANYCUBIC Photon Mono X resin 3D printer product image ANYCUBIC Photon Mono X
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The Mono X’s feature set is a cut above the usual suspects in the 3D printer game, especially in the build volume department.

Best for beginners Elegoo Mars 3 resin 3D printer product image Elegoo Mars 3
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Due to its popularity, the Mars 3 has an absolutely ridiculous number of tutorials on Reddit and YouTube, and that’s what gives it a slight edge in the “beginner-friendly” department.

Best budget Creality Halot One resin 3D printer product image Creality Halot-One
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A robust feature set makes this printer perfect for fresh hobbyists or beginners looking to cut their teeth in the 3D printing game.

From RPG miniatures to tool prototypes, resin 3D printers have changed the nature of many time-intensive hobbies. While they have a (somewhat unfair) reputation for being unwieldy and expensive, resin printers in recent years have become smaller, cheaper, and surprisingly easy to use. Whether you’re a Warhammer fiend who wants a top-of-the-line machine to print an entire opposing army or just a casual D&D player who wants to dip your toe into the hobby, there’s a model that will work for you. Still, it’s best to familiarize yourself with the options before you commit to anything, as there’s a lot to learn on the hunt for the best resin 3D printer.

How we picked the best resin 3D printers

As a tech journalist with almost a decade of experience, I know how to determine which products are best for every level of consumer, from entry-level to industrial. I’m also a longtime RPG enthusiast and game-master with my own collection of tokens, so I know what discerning fans are looking for in their 3D printers. In putting together these recommendations, we consulted personal testimonials, consumer reviews, and tests conducted by top-quality professionals to determine which resin 3D printer is right for you, regardless of your priorities.

The best resin 3D printers: Reviews & Recommendations

Ultimately, it’s up to you to determine which of the above features is more important to you. The following resin 3D printers each excel in one area or another, often in multiple. Regardless of whether or not you plan to go all out for an industrial-grade solution, or save a bundle in order to try crafting for yourself, one of these printers will probably suit your needs.

Best overall: ANYCUBIC Photon Mono X

ANYCUBIC

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Why it made the cut: The ANYCUBIC Photon Mono X offers the best vital features per cost of any consumer-grade resin 3D printer out there.

Specs

  • Build volume: 192mm x 120mm x 250mm
  • Resolution: 3840×2400 (4K)
  • Printing speed: 60mm/h
  • Printing accuracy: .01mm
  • XY axis resolution: .05mm
  • LCD: 6.23 inch Mono
  • MSRP: $480

Pros

  • Premium feature set
  • Reasonable price
  • Very fast

Cons

  • Not as easy to use as entry-level models

If you’re looking for the best overall bang for your buck in the resin 3D printer space, the ANYCUBIC Photon Mono X is your ticket. Though it’s technically the big brother of true entry-level machines like the Elegoo Mars 3—more on that later—ANYCUBIC is an extremely well-known manufacturer in the space and there are plenty of online tutorials on how to use its devices on enthusiast forums like Reddit. 

The Mono X’s feature set is a cut above the usual suspects in the 3D printer game, especially in the build volume department. At 7.5 inches by 4.7 inches by 9.8 inches, the Mono X’s build area is more than big enough for any miniature you’re likely to want to build, except maybe Cthulhu. It also offers fast speeds, 4K resolution, and better Z-axis support than similar models.

Its price may be several hundred dollars more than other options, but in our opinion, the difference is more than worth it.

Best for miniatures: ANYCUBIC Photon Mono 4K

ANYCUBIC

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Why it made the cut: The ANYCUBIC Photon Mono 4K excels at creating standard miniatures quickly and easily, and it’s not hard to master.

Specs

  • Build volume: 132mm x 80mm x 165mm
  • Resolution: 3840×2400 (4K)
  • Printing speed: 50mm/h
  • Printing accuracy: .01mm
  • XY Axis Resolution: .035mm
  • LCD: 6.23 inch Mono
  • MSRP: $250

Pros

  • Extremely competitive price
  • Fast, easy to use
  • Rich online community

Cons

  • Standard build volume
  • Touch screen issues

It might be smaller than its big brother, the Mono X, but it still packs a punch. The Mono 4K is the latest model of the ANYCUBIC Photon, one of the original resin 3D printers. Though it’s solidly in the entry-level price of $250 to $300, the Mono 4K is extremely similar to the X in terms of feature set. 

The 4K’s great resolution and standard build volume make it a very good option for users who want to make a large number of standard miniatures without much fuss. It’s quite easy to set up even for newbies and its compact size means that it can sit on a small end table without calling a lot of attention to itself. At 50mm an hour max speed, the 4K will spit out miniatures very quickly once you get it set up, which is quite easy thanks to its online popularity.

If you’re an average user who wants to build an army of detailed orcs as fast as possible without breaking the bank, the Mono 4K is a great option.

Best for beginners: Elegoo Mars 3

Elegoo

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Why it made the cut: Arguably the most famous resin 3D printer out there, the Elegoo Mars 3 is a great option for both beginners and experts alike.

Specs

  • Build volume: 143mm x 89mm x 175mm
  • Resolution: 4098×2560 (4K)
  • Printing speed: 50mm/h
  • Printing accuracy: .01mm
  • XY axis resolution: .035mm
  • LCD: 6.66 inch Mono
  • MSRP: $380

Pros

  • Very popular and intuitive
  • Good resolution
  • Slightly larger build volume

Cons

  • Somewhat expensive for what it is

As the follow-up to arguably the most popular resin printer of the last few years, the Mars 2, the Mars 3 has big shoes to fill. In fact, if you search “resin 3D printer” on any search engine, the Mars 3 will probably be the first one to show up. Overall, the Mars 3 lives up to its reputation as the easiest resin printer to use out there, and it offers a robust feature set, too.

The Mars 3’s specs are a little bit better than its main competitor, the Mono 4K, in almost every meaningful category, especially its build volume. However, reviews suggest that it’s not quite as fast as the Mono 4K over time. However, due to its popularity, you can find an absolutely ridiculous number of tutorials on Reddit and YouTube on how to use the Mars 3, and that’s what gives it a slight edge in the “beginner-friendly” department.

Overall, the Mars 3 is comparable in price to more premium resin 3D printers, but its ease of use and reputation make it worth a purchase, especially if you’re intimidated by the hobby as a whole.

Best high-end: Original Prusa SL1S Speed Bundle

Prusa

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Why it made the cut: The Prusa SL1S Speed might be expensive but it’s the choice for resin-crafters who want to turn their hobby into a serious side hustle.

Specs

  • Build volume: 127mm x 80mm x 150mm
  • Resolution: 2560×1620 (2K)
  • Printing speed: 1.3 to 2.4 seconds per layer
  • Printing accuracy: .01mm
  • XY axis resolution: .049mm
  • LCD: 5.96 inch Mono
  • MSRP: $2,000

Pros

  • Extremely fast
  • Truly professional-grade
  • Supports easy post-processing

Cons

  • Very expensive
  • Some dated features

In the world of resin 3D printing, there are hobbyists, and there are small businesses. If you’re looking to make a serious buck selling your miniatures or other products on a storefront like Etsy—and you already have some experience with resin printing—the Prusa S1LS Speed is a strong option. Thanks to its vat tilting support and ultra-fast scanning speed, the Prusa is suitable for both precise industrial work (such as dental molds) and cranking out miniatures as fast as possible. Testing suggests it’s nearly double the speed of the Mars 3, for example.

However, you get what you pay for. At $2,000, the SL1S Speed is about eight times more expensive than an entry-level resin printer like the Mars 3. While that is certainly quite a pill to swallow, this is a “prosumer” model that’s intended to compete with industrial scanners in the $5k to $6k range. (You can even get it bundled with the CW1S, a curing and washing machine that makes post-processing much more efficient.) For a $2,000 machine, you could certainly argue that the SL1S’s lack of 4K support and small build volume are major stumbling blocks, but many small businesses aren’t going to miss those features compared to the volume it can spit out.

If you’re in the market for a high-end resin printer, the SL1S Speed is a great option. It’s definitely not suitable for your average consumer, however.

Best for large prints: ANYCUBIC Photon M3 Max

ANYCUBIC

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Why it made the cut: The ANYCUBIC Photon M3 Max is a high-end resin 3D printer that supports massive builds at a fairly reasonable price.

Specs

  • Build volume: 300mm x 298mm x 164mm
  • Resolution: 6480×3600 (6K)
  • Printing speed: 60mm/hr
  • Printing accuracy: .01mm
  • XY axis resolution: .040mm
  • LCD: 13.6 inch Mono
  • MSRP: $1,300

Pros

  • Incredible build volume
  • Very high resolution
  • Massive screen

Cons

  • Large and unwieldy
  • Expensive

If “bigger is better” is your favorite mantra, the Photon M3 Max might be the resin 3D printer for you. Boasting a ridiculous foot-tall build volume and better than 6K resolution, this is a machine that can print a heck of a final boss for your D&D campaign. It’s also surprisingly speedy for its size, posting significantly better build times than smaller alternatives like the Mars 3 and the Photon 4K Mono.

However, its size has some downsides. The Photon M3 Max weighs more than 57 pounds, it has a much larger footprint than entry-level models, and its ultra-large builds are going to cost you a small fortune in resin. Also, its rated power of 120 watts is almost double that of smaller models, so watch that electricity bill. Its price point of $1,300 is definitely a step up from other printers, but considering everything it brings to the table, it’s fairly reasonable.

Overall, the Photon M3 Max is a serious machine for serious hobbyists and you probably already know if it’s the right resin 3D printer for you. If you’re in the market for a more newbie-friendly machine, you should look to its smaller cousins.

Best budget: Creality HALOT-ONE

Creality

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Why it made the cut: The Creality HALOT-ONE is the perfect starter machine for price-conscious customers who want to try out a new hobby.

Specs

  • Build volume: 130mm x 82mm x 160mm
  • Resolution: 2560×1620 (2K)
  • Printing speed: 1-4 seconds per layer
  • Printing accuracy: .01mm
  • XY axis resolution: .050mm
  • LCD: 5-inch Mono
  • MSRP: $200

Pros

  • Ultra-low price
  • Decent specs

Cons

  • Can get better features for $100+ more

When you consider that even the cheapest 3D printers cost $400 to $500 only a few years ago, the $200 price tag of the Creality HALOT-ONE is pretty staggering to consider. But while it’s definitely a budget model, the HALOT-ONE has a robust feature set that’s perfect for fresh hobbyists or beginners looking to cut their teeth in the 3D printing game. Its 2K resolution is more than enough for most projects, and its standard build volume can fit a standard miniature. It’s not the biggest or the fastest, but for many users, the price probably matters more.

The main argument against the HALOT-ONE is that you can get 4K resolution and significantly faster speed from a Mars 3 or Mono 4K for around $100 to $150 more. However, that might be the difference in purchasing a resin printer or not if you’re on a tight budget, so it’s ultimately up to you to decide whether those features are worth it to you.

The HALOT-ONE is a nice little machine, and its price can’t be beaten. For many budding hobbyists, it’s a great place to start.

Things to consider before buying the best resin 3D printers

Buying a 3D printer can be pretty intimidating, especially if you don’t know much about the hobby. The best resin 3D printers cost anywhere from $200 to $2,000, so one is not a casual pickup. Before making your purchase, you’ll need to consider what exactly you want to use it for, as that will have a big impact on what printer you choose. For example, if you’re planning on creating large miniatures or tool prototypes, you will need a printer with a larger build volume. You’ll also need to decide what level of detail you need from the printer, as that has a big impact on its cost. While a 4K capable printer is fairly affordable these days, 6K will raise the price substantially.

Regardless of what printer you ultimately buy, you’ll need to determine how comfortable you are working with resin, as you’ll need special tools and gear (such as a UV light and nitrate gloves) as part of your production process. If you’re willing to shell out, you can buy a washing-and-curing machine, like the Elegoo Mercury, in order to save yourself some legwork. Finally, you’ll need to reckon with the fact that resin itself is a lot more expensive than the alternatives, such as filament. However, the final product is more than worth it.

Size matters

Build volume is a measure of how large a product a resin 3D printer can produce. For example, a common build volume is about 5.5 inches by 3.5 inches by 7 inches, which is well within the typical range of a Dungeons & Dragons miniature. If you’re looking to make something bigger than that, you will need to purchase a printer with a large (or even extra-large) build volume. Generally speaking, printers with large build volumes require a bit more fiddling (and can be more prone to user error) than their standard-volume equivalents, but you can learn the ropes with a bit of effort.

4K, 6K, or 8K, oh my

The resolution of the 3D printer’s LCD will determine the level of detail it can inscribe on your beautiful miniatures. A 4K printer is considered the standard these days for all but ultra-budget models, and it’s more than sufficient for most projects. Still, if you want those details to really sing, you may want to consider a 6K (or even 8K!) option.

Mono is better than RGB

Yes, it may seem counterintuitive, but a 3D printer with monochrome LCD masking is better than one with RGB (or color) LCD masking. Monos are better at letting the UV light pass through than their colored alternatives, which means that each layer is scanned that much faster. RGB 3D printers are cheaper than monos, but even mono printers are fairly affordable these days. As such, unless your budget is extremely constrained, we recommend you get a mono, as they’re between 3-5x faster on average.

FAQs

Q: What’s the highest resolution resin 3D printer?

The current highest resolution resin printer on the market is the Phrozen Sonic Mini 8K and the Mega 8K. However, while they have great resolution, both of these printers have significantly worse consumer reviews than the above picks, which is why it did not make the cut.

Q: Can you reuse resin from failed prints?

Unfortunately, no, you can’t. Once the resin has been hardened, it will remain hard forever. You cannot melt it down and reuse it like you can with a filament 3D printer.

Q: Is resin printing toxic?

While resin printers are perfectly safe to use, you must use caution, especially when you’re first starting with the hobby. Yes, untreated resin is toxic to the touch—you must use nitrate gloves while handling it. You should also wear safety glasses or goggles when working with the machine to avoid eye damage from splashing.

Q: How long can a resin print sit before cleaning it?

Provided that it’s kept away from UV light—and from any action that might break it, such as a pet—a resin print can sit for as long as you need before curing or cleaning it. However, you should not get in the habit of leaving them lying around, as they can easily break.

Q: Are resin prints stronger than PLA?

No, resin prints are more brittle and breakable than their filament counterparts. However, resin as a material allows for far more detail than filament, so it’s a better choice for RPG miniatures and the like.

Final thoughts on the best resin 3D printers

3D printing is one of the fastest-growing hobbies out there and, while there’s certainly a learning curve, it won’t take you long to make the wizard of your D&D dreams. In general, newbies to resin 3D printers should stick to well-known brand names like Elegoo and ANYCUBIC due to their very large online communities and tutorial support. It might seem intimidating, but if you work at it, it’s not as hard as it looks.

The post The best resin 3D printers of 2023 appeared first on Popular Science.

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The best gaming headsets under $100 of 2023 https://www.popsci.com/reviews/best-gaming-headsets-under-100/ Wed, 04 May 2022 15:00:03 +0000 https://www.popsci.com/?p=439992
gaming headsets under $100 header image
Stan Horaczek

You can get enhanced audio and clear communication without spending too much with the best gaming headsets under $100.

The post The best gaming headsets under $100 of 2023 appeared first on Popular Science.

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Stan Horaczek

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Best overall SteelSeries Arctis 5 is the best gaming headset under $100. SteelSeries Arctis 5
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The SteelSeries Arctis 5 brings upscale features to the budget gaming headset party.

Best wired HyperX Cloud Alpha is the best wired headset under $100. HyperX Cloud Alpha
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The HyperX Cloud Alpha is a perennial gaming headset pick, thanks to its strong build and stronger sound.

Best wireless SteelSeries Arctis 1 Wireless is the best wireless headset under $100. SteelSeries Arctis 1 Wireless
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The SteelSeries Arctis 1 features a dongle with USB-A and USB-C support, making it a great fit for most consoles and PC.

When you’re looking to spend $100 or less on a gaming headset, it’s best to keep things simple. At this price, you can find a very simple headset with decent speakers and a solid microphone, but the quality isn’t a given. Most budget headsets that we really like tend to rely on a simple wired connection via a 3.5mm headphone jack, which is universal across PC, phones, and every game console. There are also some wireless options in the mix but don’t expect audio processing features or best-in-class battery life. Even with a budget limited to $100, you can find an excellent gaming headset for everything from competitive gaming to streaming to simple video calls. The best gaming headsets under $100 offer reliable basics for less.

How we picked the best gaming headsets under $100

To pick the best gaming headsets under $100, we leveraged our collective audio expertise at PopSci, as well as professional reviews and consumer impressions from across the internet. We considered the myriad of qualities that go into the perfect gaming headset, including comfort, connectivity, intuitive controls, and, most of all, clear audio. We focused on offerings from the most popular, reliable brands, to ensure that picking a less expensive headset means simple, rather than low-quality.

As a critic covering games and related gear for Popular Mechanics and NBC Select, I have tested and reviewed tons of gaming headsets and peripherals. I am constantly looking to optimize my equipment for both professional and personal comfort.

The best gaming headsets under $100: Reviews & Recommendations

The best gaming headsets under $100 come from a few big-name gaming and peripheral brands, namely SteelSeries, HyperX, and Logitech. All of them deliver quality audio and long-lasting comfort. Your preference will depend on design elements like connectivity, controls, and form factor.

Best overall: SteelSeries Arctis 5

SteelSeries

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Buy it used or refurbished: eBay

Why it made the cut: The Arctis 5 offers impressive USB features on both PC and PlayStation while still being widely compatible thanks to solid 3.5mm connectivity.

Specs

  • Connectivity: USB-A, 3.5mm audio cable
  • Compatibility: PC, PS5, and PS4 via USB, Nintendo Switch, Xbox Series X|S, Xbox One, and mobile via 3.5mm cable
  • Microphone: Bidirectional, noise-canceling, retractable
  • Weight: 277g
  • Battery Life: N/A

Pros

  • Wide compatibility with USB and 3.5mm
  • In-line physical audio mixer
  • Retractable microphone

Cons

  • Microphone does not mute when retracted

SteelSeries’s Arctis line includes options for every price point and feature set. Many of them are the best in class, regardless of their competition. Case in point, the Arctis 5 carries many of SteelSeries’ more luxurious features without the premium price tag.

More specifically, PC and PlayStation 4 users can connect the headset over USB to use DTS Headphone:X 2.0 virtual surround sound, enhancing gameplay with immersive spatial audio. (On PS5, all headsets get positional audio through the console’s Tempest 3D audio.) The USB connection also lets you use its inline “ChatMix” dial makes audio adjustment easy, adjusting game and voice volume instantly.

While you’ll get the most out of it on PC and PlayStation, the Arctis 5 works perfectly well on Xbox and Nintendo Switch over a 3.5mm headphone jack, providing a comfortable listening experience with balanced audio and a clear microphone. The Arctis 5 isn’t our favorite SteelSeries headset—for that, check out the Arctis 9—but it’s a strong option you can get on the cheap.

Best wired: HyperX Cloud Alpha

HyperX

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Buy it used or refurbished: Amazon

Why it made the cut: With an excellent design and clear mic audio, the HyperX Cloud Alpha is the epitome of quality and affordability.

Specs

  • Connectivity: 3.5mm audio cable
  • Compatibility: PC, PS5, PS4, Nintendo Switch, Xbox Series X|S, Xbox One, mobile
  • Microphone: Bidirectional, noise-canceling, detachable
  • Weight: 298g
  • Battery Life: N/A

Pros

  • Durable build
  • Excellent microphone
  • Wide compatibility

Cons

  • Lacks additional features

There is something to be said for getting a headset that just works. Regardless of what it’s plugged into, the HyperX Cloud Alpha delivers long-lasting comfort, clear audio, and excellent communication.

While it doesn’t have a standout special feature, its sturdy construction ensures that the comfort and quality sound won’t fade for many years. The adjustable aluminum frame feels solid and durable, and alongside the comfortable leatherette padding, feels comfortable during long gaming sessions or virtual get-togethers.

The HyperX Cloud Alpha also features an excellent detachable noise-canceling microphone, especially for this price range. Microphone quality is often overlooked in headsets in this price range, so even subtle improvements really stand out.

For PC players who like the sound of the HyperX Cloud Alpha, we recommend spending a little extra to pick up the USB-enabled HyperX Cloud Alpha S, which opens the door for virtual 7.1 surround sound and an inline controller to the mix. It costs just over $100, but it’s worth the extra spend.

Best wireless: SteelSeries Arctis 1 Wireless

SteelSeries

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Buy it used or refurbished: eBay

Why it made the cut: The SteelSeries Arctis 1 Wireless brings low-latency 2.4GHz wireless connectivity and wide-ranging compatibility, making it one of the best wireless headsets for people using multiple devices.

Specs

  • Connectivity: USB-C wireless dongle, 3.5mm audio cable
  • Compatibility: PC, PS5, PS4, Nintendo Switch, and mobile via wireless dongle, Xbox Series X|S and Xbox One via 3.5mm cable
  • Microphone: Bidirectional, noise-canceling, detachable
  • Weight: 252g
  • Battery Life: 20 hours

Pros

  • Low-latency 2.4GHz wireless
  • USB-A and USB-C connectivity
  • Balanced sound signature

Cons

  • Poor headband padding

When picking a wireless headset, cross-compatibility is a major issue. The SteelSeries Arctis 1 Wireless mitigates this as much as possible by offering a wide range of wireless and wired connection options. Like our top pick, the SteelSeries Arctis 5, it features a low-latency 2.4Ghz wireless dongle that can connect via USB-C or USB-A via an included adapter. This dual coverage expands the range of devices it can connect to via wireless, including the Nintendo Switch and Android devices with USB-C. This feature alone makes the Arctis 1 Wireless an easy budget headset recommendation.

Outside of connectivity, the Arctis 1 Wireless has a utilitarian design with few bells and whistles For example, it lacks the self-adjusting headband found on higher-end Arctis headsets, so you may feel its weight on your head moreover long stretches. That said, it sounds perfectly serviceable and will let you get your point across clearly, no strings attached.

Best Bluetooth: Logitech G435 Lightspeed Bluetooth Wireless

Logitech G

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Buy it used or refurbished: eBay

Why it made the cut: The incredibly lightweight Logitech G435 is comfortable for gaming, remote work, and anything in between.

Specs

  • Connectivity: USB-A wireless dongle, Bluetooth 
  • Compatibility: PC, Mac, PS5, and PS4 via wireless dongle, Nintendo Switch and mobile via Bluetooth 
  • Microphone: Dual-beamforming mic array
  • Weight: 165g
  • Battery Life: 18 hours

Pros

  • Incredibly lightweight
  • Wireless and Bluetooth connectivity
  • Fun color options

Cons

  • Average sound quality

In Popular Science’s Logitech G435 review, we said that the headset may not have top-of-the-line sound but it exceeds expectations everywhere else. It is one of the lightest headsets around, often weighing 100 grams less than its competitors. (That’s a lot; many of our picks weigh between 200 and 300 grams.)

Lightweight and colorful, the Logitech G435 is an easy, breezy option for casual play. It offers a dongle-based Wi-Fi connection for console and PC players. The ability to switch between the two gives players the freedom to play where they want, when they want. One small caveat: The G435 relies on a multi-mic beamforming array, like you’d find in many wireless Bluetooth headphones, rather than a boom mic. It works quite well, though doesn’t isolate your voice as well as other headset mics.

Best value: HyperX Cloud Stinger

HyperX

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Buy it used or refurbished: Amazon

Why it made the cut: For just $50, the HyperX Cloud Stingers provide the essentials: a comfortable fit, wide-ranging compatibility, and clear listening and microphone audio.

Specs

  • Connectivity: 3.5mm audio cable
  • Compatibility: PC, PS5, PS4, Nintendo Switch, Xbox Series X|S, Xbox One, mobile
  • Microphone: Unidirectional, noise-canceling
  • Weight: 275g
  • Battery Life: N/A

Pros

  • Very affordable
  • Widely compatible
  • Ample padding

Cons

  • Non-detachable mic and cable
  • Bulky

For just $50, it doesn’t get any better than the HyperX Cloud Stinger. It’s a bit bulky and the plastic doesn’t feel great, but you’re getting a competent-sounding headset for less than the cost of a new AAA game.

Like its mid- and high-end counterparts from HyperX, the Cloud Stinger maintains a comfortable fit with top-band and earcup ample padding. Its bass-centric sound follows the classic gaming headset mix. It isn’t the height of audio precision but it gets the job done given its price.

Despite its affordable price tag, the Cloud Stingers manage to cram in one luxury feature: a sliding boom mic that automatically mutes when you lift it away from your mouth (this isn’t an uncommon feature but very helpful when you can’t detach your mic). Many companies have a similarly no-frills headset at this price point, but HyperX’s overall quality as a brand makes it a safe choice for any player.

Best for Xbox: Xbox Wireless Headset

Microsoft

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Buy it used or refurbished: eBay

Why it made the cut: Xbox’s newest headset has a robust feature-set and intuitive controls.

Specs

  • Connectivity: Xbox Wireless, Bluetooth
  • Compatibility: Xbox Series X|S and Xbox One via Xbox Wireless, PC and mobile via USB-C and Bluetooth
  • Microphone: Unclassified dual mic array on a built-in boom arm
  • Weight: 312g
  • Battery Life: 15 hours

Pros

  • Easy pairing with Xbox
  • Three connectivity options
  • Intuitive controls

Cons

  • No 3.5mm connectivity

The days of Microsoft’s tiny, one-sided Xbox 360 headsets are long gone. The current Xbox Wireless Headset is a worthy wireless headset for most players, especially those of us on a budget.

Comfortable, robust, and convenient, the Xbox Wireless Headset can connect wirelessly to Xbox Series and Xbox One consoles without a wireless dongle via Xbox Wireless, the company’s proprietary wireless standard. Its bass-heavy sound amps up action games, while its clear and even microphone helps you stay in touch during co-op play.

With the Xbox Accessories app, you can adjust sound equalization, mic levels, and add virtual Windows Sonic surround sound— features usually reserved for PC users. You can also adjust the sound balance on the fly with the rotating dials on each earcup: right for volume adjustment and left for game and chat balance. After a long stretch without a strong first-party headset, the Xbox Wireless Headset is an easy selection for players who want an easy audio solution on Xbox One, Series S, or Series X.

Best for PlayStation: Sony Pulse 3D Wireless

PlayStation

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Buy it used or refurbished: Amazon

Why it made the cut: Designed to showcase the PS5’s immersive 3D audio, Sony’s Pulse 3D Wireless is a great companion to the PlayStation’s more immersive single-player video games.

Specs

  • Connectivity: USB-A wireless dongle, 3.5mm audio cable
  • Compatibility: PC, PS5, and PS4 via wireless dongle, Nintendo Switch, Xbox Series X|S, Xbox One, and mobile via 3.5mm cable.
  • Microphone: Dual noise-canceling mic array
  • Weight: 294g
  • Battery Life: 12 hours

Pros

  • Emphasizes PS5 Tempest 3D audio
  • Wired and wireless connectivity
  • Simple setup

Cons

  • Short battery life
  • Underwhelming microphone

PlayStation’s Pulse 3D wireless headset is a very solid headset for its price. Designed to pair with the PlayStation 5’s Tempest 3D audio technology, which adds 3D audio to any headset, it enhances the immersive soundscapes of PlayStation’s impressive exclusives, such as Horizon Forbidden West and Spider-Man: Miles Morales.

Design-wise, the Pulse 3D looks sleek and curvy, matching the PS5’s aesthetic. Despite the PS5-focused feature set, this headset does support wide-ranging connectivity with its USB wireless dongle and 3.5mm cable. 

The Pulse 3D is one of the best PS5 headsets, largely thanks to immersive Tempest 3D audio. But be warned: Its rounded ear cups are not a great fit for folks with larger ears.

Best for PCs: Logitech G433

Logitech G

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Buy it used or refurbished: eBay

Why it made the cut: For around $70, the Logitech G433 offers a versatile wired headset that’s easily customizable and well-suited to a wide range of media content, from games to TV shows.

Specs

  • Connectivity: USB-A, 3.5mm audio cable
  • Compatibility: PC via USB, PS5, PS4, Nintendo Switch, Xbox Series X|S, Xbox One and mobile via 3.5mm cable
  • Microphone: Unidirectional, noise-canceling, detachable
  • Weight: 259g
  • Battery Life: N/A

Pros

  • Customizable via Logitech software
  • Virtual surround sound
  • USB and 3.5mm connectivity

Cons

  • Weak noise isolation

More than other applications, PC gaming headsets need to be versatile. Potentially your primary audio source for everything you do on a computer, it needs to sound good while gaming, listening to music, watching videos, and anything else that comes up. Logitech’s G433 is a well-rounded PC recommendation with solid customization options and even-keeled sound.

The G433 sounds more balanced than many of the gaming headsets on this list. Rather than bumping up the bass, it features a relatively flat mix that’s fitting for games and music alike. Using Logitech’s G HUB software, you can tweak settings like virtual DTS Headphone:X 7.1 surround sound, audio equalization, and custom sound profiles for different game types or tasks. Clear audio, combined with an affordable price, makes the Logitech G433 a great choice for PC users.

What to consider before buying the best gaming headsets under $100

Shopping for a gaming headset can be tricky. Their specs often don’t translate into a reasonable understanding of how music or games sound through their speakers. Luckily, picking a headset in the lower, sub-$100 price range narrows the field quite a bit. Here are some factors you should keep in mind when picking your next:

Is it compatible with your system(s)?

Many gaming headsets are not universally compatible across PlayStation, Xbox, and Nintendo consoles. If a headset connects to a game console via USB or wirelessly, chances are that you need to buy the version that caters to your devices specifically. Make sure you know where and how you’ll connect your headset, so you can be sure you’re buying a device that works as intended.

Luckily, many of the top options in the sub-$100 budget headset range support a wired, 3.5mm connection. While it doesn’t allow for advanced controls and features, a 3.5mm will work on any device with a headphone jack. If you have many consoles and want to use one headset for everything, a 3.5mm headphone jack is the way to go.

Wired or wireless?

Wireless gaming headsets let you ditch the cables and give yourself a clutter-free gaming space. They give you the freedom to position yourself without worrying about cables connecting to your console, PC, or controller.

While that’s an obvious advantage, wired headsets have perks as well. What they lack in premium features and software customization they make up for in simplicity. As we mentioned, you don’t need to worry about what console you own when buying one. Also, wireless headsets require battery power, which means they need to be charged.

If you opt for a wireless headset, make sure you look for one with solid battery life. On more expensive headsets, we recommend 20 hours or better, but for a budget headset you may need to be more flexible. If you plan to connect to a console or gaming PC, we recommend relying exclusively on a Wi-Fi connection enabled through a USB receiver dongle. Many headsets support Bluetooth wireless, but the connection generates more audio lag than you want for most games. That said, we recommend Bluetooth headsets for smartphones, as most receiver dongles require a USB-A port.

Comfort

You want your headset to be comfortable, especially if you plan on using it for long gaming sessions. Every headset allows you to adjust it in some way to ensure the earcups line up with your ears so it fits correctly. Some headsets feel better than others when properly adjusted, though. The best gaming headsets feel balanced on your head, without weighing you down. They don’t move when you shake your head, but they don’t grip too tight, either.

During long gaming sessions, a heavy headset can start to feel uncomfortable, particularly against the top of the head. A lighter headset will weigh on you less but that isn’t the only solution or even the best one. A design that distributes the weight of the headset across your head can make even a heavy headset wearable for many hours.

Proper padding can also make all the difference. Most gaming headsets use some form of memory foam padding in the earcups, and often under the top band of the headset. You’ll often see the most padding in the ears and top band of a headset. Some top bands feature a strip of an elastic material called “floating” or suspended headband that evenly distributes the weight across the top of your head. Suspended headbands usually work better than simple padding. Both ways, however, can produce a very comfortable headset.

The padding that covers the pads can matter just as much as the padding itself. The padding is usually covered with either a mesh fabric or synthetic leather called leatherette. There are good arguments for both materials, so it all comes down to what you feel comfortable in.

How do you want your headset to sound?

Gaming headsets may look similar, but they can sound very different. Depending on the product, you can enjoy a bass-heavy, immersive soundscape or a warm, neutral one. Many headsets come with software that allows for equalization and virtual surround sound.

While audio quality in gaming headsets has improved dramatically over the past two console generations, optimizing for audio quality will lead you to spend more than $100 on a headset. Our list ensures you get the best possible basics, but fans of high-fidelity audio or 7.1 surround sound will want to shop for the best gaming headsets, including more audiophile-grade options like the Audeze Mobius, Audeze Penrose, or Master & Dynamic MG20, which can cost several hundred dollars.

FAQs

Q: Which headset brand is best?

We recommend picking a headset based on its features, rather than the brand. That said, there are many great brands making excellent gaming headsets. Companies like SteelSeries, HyperX, Corsair, Razer, Astro, and Logitech, all have a strong track record of making solid gaming audio gear.

Q: Does Razer make good headsets?

Razer makes some solid gaming headsets. Case in point, the Razer BlackShark V2 headset is among our recommendations for the best gaming headsets. They tend to be slightly more expensive than other brands in many cases, though, so the company may not be the best choice for very budget-conscious players.

Q: What are the best cheap gaming headsets?

As it happens we have a whole separate list of the best cheap gaming headset for players who want to find a headset that works well and doesn’t cost a fortune, but has a slightly more flexible budget.

Final thoughts on the best gaming headsets under $100

The best gaming headsets under $100 punch far above their price point, delivering simple, high-quality audio and communication. Whether you’re gaming on a console or PC, a great headset allows for easy listening and clear communication. There’s always room for improvement but you don’t need to spend a ton to find something good enough to play games with friends worry-free.

The post The best gaming headsets under $100 of 2023 appeared first on Popular Science.

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The best PC games that demand a mouse and keyboard https://www.popsci.com/reviews/best-pc-games/ Sat, 12 Feb 2022 14:00:00 +0000 https://www.popsci.com/?p=398580
best pc games
Billy Cadden

There are some games you just can’t play any other way.

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best pc games
Billy Cadden

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Best tactics game Best PC Games XCOM 2
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XCOM 2 strikes a perfect balance between tactical combat, macro planning, and resource management, creating an insanely compelling strategy game.

Best MMORPG Best PC Games Final Fantasy XIV
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The ascendant MMORPG seems to capture more and more fans with its deep lore and tie-ins to the greater Final Fantasy universe and Square Enix RPGs like Nier: Automata.

Best strategy game Best PC Games Civilization VI
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The Civilization series has long been one of the most fun and infinitely exciting game franchises. The most recent entry, Civilization VI, is the pinnacle of the series to date.

There are games that you can (and maybe should) play on a PC, and then there are games that you need to play on a PC. Strategy games, massively multiplayer online games (MMOs), old-school isometric role-playing games (RPGs), multiplayer online battle arenas, (MOBAs)—some of the best PC games rely so heavily on the free movement of a mouse or the extended range of inputs on your keyboard that it feels like it would be impossible to play them with a controller. Whether you’re a prospective PC player looking for reasons to invest in a gaming rig, or a seasoned PC builder looking to commune with the platform’s roots. These games are at the heart of PC gaming, in part because the experience of playing them is so specifically tied to its traditional tools.

How we selected the best PC games

As a former game critic, I’ve played a lot of games on many platforms. That means I have a better-than-average knowledge of the games out there. I’ve also reviewed lots of gaming peripherals—including mice, keyboards, and controllers—so I have a strong understanding of their strengths and weaknesses. All of the games on this list feature interfaces that require either the ability to point and click or a higher number of gameplay-focused buttons than on a controller. In many cases, these games are available on PC and consoles, but playing them with a controller feels like a compromise.

The best PC games: Our Reviews & Recommendations

Now that we know the distinction between a “controller game” and a “mouse and keyboard game,” let’s take a quick look at some amazing games that you should absolutely always play with mouse and keyboard, regardless of whether or not you technically have other options.

Best tactics game: XCOM 2

Why it made the cut: XCOM 2 strikes a perfect balance between tactical combat, macro planning, and resource management, creating an insanely compelling strategy game.

Pros

  • Smart, varied squad-based tactics.
  • Resource management layer requires short- and long-term planning
  • Lots of cool enemy alien designs

Cons

  • It can be hard to see when you’ve already lost a game.
  • Still somewhat buggy, even years later

XCOM 2 has a lot of layers. A strategy game where you command humanity’s resistance force fighting a powerful alien army that’s taken control of Earth, XCOM 2 forces you to make macro- and micro-decisions to outsmart and defeat an army much larger and deadlier than yours. Your resources are always limited, including your soldiers, who are permanently killed when they fall in battle. (Coincidentally, this leads to lots of fun runs where you name your troops after friends, family, pets, whatever.) Alternating between base-building and squad-based tactics gameplay, you will need skill and luck to complete each mission. 

As a tactics game, XCOM 2 benefits heavily from mouse and keyboard controls. Each soldier has a fairly wide range of actions they can do each turn, which are mapped to the number keys. A mouse also allows you to quickly move your characters, scroll to look around each level, and navigate menus around your ship more efficiently than if you used a gamepad.

Best strategy game: Civilization VI

Why it made the cut: The Civilization series has long been one of the most fun and infinitely exciting game franchises. The most recent entry, Civilization VI, is the pinnacle of the series to date.

Pros

  • Infinitely replayable
  • Tons of special scenarios and content
  • History is fun!

Cons

  • Addictive gameplay may keep you up all night

The Civilization series has been the apex of the empire-building “4X” genre (explore, expand, exploit, exterminate) for more than 20 years. Though the most recent entry in the series, Civilization VI, is already more than five years old, it remains a rare revelation. You control the resources of an entire civilization, from the first humans to the near future. Over the span of human history, you must grow your “Civ” and become the most successful empire in the world, whether by conquest, cultural influence, or technological supremacy, to name just a few.

Though there are console versions of Civilization VI that work surprisingly well, the text-heavy menus and wide world that you must scan each turn makes the PC, and a mouse, absolutely essential. It also features plenty of hotkeys for assigning and automating the many tasks your settlers, workers, and warriors carry out. Civilization is among the most accessible 4X games, but it’s a genre defined by complexity. The more complex the game, the more important it is to have a mouse and keyboard.

Best esport: Dota 2

Valve

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Why it made the cut: Aside from being one of the most popular competitive games in the world, Dota 2 is a deeply tactical squad-based action game that grows and evolves over time to stay fresh.

Pros

  • Free-to-play
  • Among the most popular esports in the world
  • Tons of characters, each with their own unique abilities and tactics to learn

Cons

  • May take a long time to learn
  • Community can make new players feel unwelcome

Multiplayer Online Battle Arena games, commonly referred to as “MOBAs,” are the pinnacle of competitive and “esports” popularity. These 5-on-5 third-person RPG-infused action games—including League of Legends, Dota 2, and, most recently Pokemon Unite on the Nintendo Switch—look simple on the surface: Two teams fight to level up to gain ground and ultimately destroy your opponent’s base structure. (That’s the “ancient” in Dota 2). Though it appears to be relatively simple at a glance, there is immense variety among the many characters’ abilities and specs. There is a lot to learn, but the experience can be very rewarding for players who are willing to put in the time and find a squad to play with.

Though MOBAs can be built for a controller or phone, the PC is still the home base for MOBAs like Dota 2. The genre was originally created as an alternate mode in Warcraft III and its click to move gameplay reflects that lineage. You also benefit from having a keyboard with a number/function row to quickly access all your abilities. While there are mobile and console MOBAs that are worth playing, the core MOBA experience happens on a PC with a mouse and keyboard.

Best MMORPG: Final Fantasy XIV

Square Enix

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Why it made the cut: The ascendant MMORPG seems to capture more and more fans with its deep lore and tie-ins to the greater Final Fantasy universe and Square Enix RPGs like Nier: Automata.

Pros

  • Compelling story
  • Complex ability driven RPG combat
  • Huge player base and social scene

Cons

  • Requires a serious time investment to reach “the good stuff” in the story
  • Monthly subscription

Depending on what gaming publications you read, Final Fantasy XIV feels like the video game of the moment in 2023. Though it’s been around since 2013, the second MMORPG take on Final Fantasy seems to be attracting new fans all the time at a time when most MMOs, including World of Warcraft, seem to have fallen back into place as a niche RPG sub-genre.

FFXIV is a pure MMO at heart, which means fans come to it for an epic, sweeping story … and that you need a lot of hotkeys. Despite attracting a notable PlayStation community, there are many mechanics that fit better with a keyboard, from the aforementioned range of abilities to text chat, to an ungodly amount of small text that would be easier to read on a monitor that’s directly in front of your face.

Best RTS for PC: Starcraft II

Blizzard Entertainment

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Why it made the cut: The Starcraft II didn’t crave out the same cultural legacy as the original, but it’s still an epic standout among real-time strategy games.

Pros

  • Three games, three campaigns
  • First campaign and multiplayer are free-to-play
  • An iconic RTS experience

Cons

  • Deep esports roots may make it hard for new players to learn

I can’t think of a game more emblematic of real-time strategy (RTS) than Starcraft II. The sweeping, three-part successor to one of the original esports, Starcraft II still offers the best balance between classic RTS gameplay and modern visuals. After more than years since the first part, Starcraft II: Wings of Liberty, launched, the series shows its age. Still, after all this time, I can’t think of a better introduction to the genre. (On the other hand, after 10 years new players may have a hard time finding someone to play with who won’t destroy them).

More than any genre on this list, RTS needs a mouse and keyboard. From scrolling around the map to wrangling specific groups of units and setting hotkeys to swap among squads, there is a tremendously high ceiling for increasing your abilities as a player through shortcuts and macros. I can’t imagine even trying to play Starcraft II with a control.

Best Isometric RPG: Divinity: Original Sin 2

Larian Studios

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Why it made the cut Divinity: Original Sin 2 is an incredibly open role-playing game known for its great writing and an old-school isometric “CRPG” gameplay-style that’s made for mouse and keyboard.

Pros

  • Great writing
  • Feels like Dungeons & Dragons brought to life
  • Online co-op

Cons

  • Very complex, bordering on unapproachable
  • Very long

Divinity: Original Sin 2 is the very model of modern major isometric western RPG. (Sometimes called a computer RPG or “CRPG.”) It is the largest and most nuanced attempt to transpose the wondrous experience of tabletop role-playing games like Dungeons & Dragons into video game form. Universally lauded for tremendous writing and the ability to do, seemingly, whatever you want in its sprawling open world, Original Sin 2 is a testament to the fact that some older gaming traditions stand the test of time.

Like tactics games, CRPGs have a lot going on. There are two types of movement, a long list of abilities to choose from for each character, and tons of text to highlight and click on. All of these mechanics are made for mouse and keyboard: It’s easier to scroll, to click, and to hotkey with mouse and keyboard. As with some games on this list, you can play Original Sin 2 on consoles, but the controller-based experience will move much slower than playing with mouse and keyboard. Since the game can already take upwards of 100 hours to finish, I wouldn’t want to waste any time.

What to consider when picking the best PC games

Some of the best PC games feel better with a mouse and keyboard. Others feel better with a controller. That PC gives you the option to easily choose between the two is one of its great strengths. While this list focuses on games that are entrenched on the mouse and keyboard side of that line, it can sometimes be tough to see the difference.

I need more inputs!

Usually, you need a keyboard in games that have lots of commands and inputs. Both the PS5 and Xbox controller have 10 gameplay-facing inputs: For games like MOBAs and MMOs, where you have lots of actions and abilities, designers often have to design menus for you to dig through. On a keyboard, you can easily assign every input you need to a different key. Keyboards also open the door for hotkeys and “macros,” custom combos you activate with a single key. The more complicated a game gets, the more useful your keyboard becomes.

Point and click

The mouse frequently feels vital because it gives you the ability to move a cursor very quickly and precisely interact with a game. In strategy games, the mouse becomes a dynamic tool that lets you highlight specific characters or buildings, move around a map freely, or interact with digital buttons on-screen. Many games attempt to simulate this with an analog stick, but it never offers the same level of control. In first-person games, moving your mouse to control your field of view allows for more situational awareness. In first-person shooters, specifically, a mouse lets you move your reticle to a very specific spot (like an enemy’s head) far quicker and with much greater accuracy than an analog stick.

Wait … so then why aren’t there any first-person shooters on this list?

PC gamers have long claimed the first-person shooter as a PC-first genre because of the advantages from using a mouse and keyboard. While it’s true that you should definitely play a first-person shooter with a mouse and keyboard on PC, I don’t believe they’re absolutely necessary. Playing a first-person shooter on consoles with a controller can be just as fun as using a mouse and keyboard, just as long as everyone you’re playing is doing the same. Sure, you may not turn or aim quite as fast, but the action still feels smooth and the game is still fun. With the games on this list, I find playing controller actively detracts from the experience.

Of course, like everything else on this, this is ultimately a matter of personal taste. I know there are PC players who would rather die than play Call of Duty with a controller, and they’re fine to continue doing so. No harm, no foul.

Are there games you shouldn’t play with a mouse and keyboard?

Character action games like Grand Theft Auto V or Assassin’s Creed Valhalla generally feel much better on a controller. With an analog stick, you have a means of directly controlling your character with nuanced 360-degree movement. I’ve never seen a mouse and keyboard layout that could achieve similar results. It may come down to personal preference, but I also find that platformers also work best with a controller, as they also require more nuanced movement.

FAQs

Q: What kind of mouse and keyboard should I buy?

There’s a wide world of gaming mice and gaming keyboards out there. Various manufacturers make different kinds of gaming keyboards to suit the varying needs and tastes of players based on whether they value comfort, speed, performance, or bells and whistles related to the games they play. While I can’t tell you exactly what to buy, Popular Science does have stories dedicated to the best gaming mice and the best gaming keyboards, which can help you pick out new gear that’s right for you.

Q: Are there other games I should play with a mouse and keyboard?

Absolutely. There are tons of games that are designed to work specifically with a mouse and keyboard. All PC games will default to using mouse and keyboard controls until you plug in a controller, so if you’re having trouble deciding between a gamepad or M+K, just start playing and see how it feels! In some cases, the best PC games will go out of their way to tell you that they feel better with a controller, but the decision is ultimately up to you.

Q: Are there games you only play with a mouse? Or just a keyboard?

There are many great PC games out there that you can play with just a mouse. Point-and-click adventure games, many city-builders, and “auto-chess” games all rely primarily on pointing and clicking, rather than using keyboard inputs or shortcuts. Keyboard-only games, however, are rare: You can technically play fighting games and many platformers with just a keyboard, though most games benefit from using a mouse a little bit to navigate their menus. 

Final thoughts on selecting the best PC games

As fewer and fewer games get designed for specific platforms, games that rely on a mouse and keyboard increasingly feel more and more distinctive from their less demanding cross-platform peers. Many of the best PC games on this list represent genres that are deeply connected with PC gaming’s history, dating back to when the platform used to feel completely separate from what was happening on consoles. There are lots of arguments among PC players about whether it’s better to play with a mouse and keyboard or a controller. For me, these games highlight the more important truth, that playing with a mouse and keyboard opens the door for new types of games that wouldn’t make sense without this combo’s unique capabilities.

The post The best PC games that demand a mouse and keyboard appeared first on Popular Science.

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The best DisplayPort cables of 2023 https://www.popsci.com/gear/best-displayport-cables/ Sat, 23 Jul 2022 13:00:00 +0000 https://www.popsci.com/?p=457575
Best DisplayPort cables sliced header
Stan Horaczek

Looking for a great DisplayPort cable for your new monitor? Let us connect you with the best interconnects.

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Best DisplayPort cables sliced header
Stan Horaczek

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Best Overall KabelDirekt – 15ft is the best overall DisplayPort cable. KabelDirekt – 15ft
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Featuring a locking connector and 3-year warranty, this cable can reliably reduce flickering without reducing your available funds.

Best Quality FURUI Nylon is the best quality DisplayPort cable. FURUI Nylon
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Highly durable (said to can survive over 16,000 bends) and supporting DisplayPort Version 2.0, this attractive VESA-certified cable is a future-proofed pick.

Best Gaming Capshi DP Cable is the best gaming DisplayPort cable. Capshi DP Cable
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When you want to play games with your friends but not your gear, this nicely priced VESA-certified cable brings with it high customer satisfaction.

DisplayPort cables, often described as the computer’s counterpart to television’s HDMI port, help connect your computer to other devices. That much is obvious. However, like all cables, DisplayPort cables include a million different brands, types, lengths, and more to select from, so getting a high-quality one isn’t as obvious. The DisplayPort digital A/V interface, a replacement for DVI and VGA and even HDMI, is a high-bandwidth standard you’ll find on many top-tier GPUs, so you want to make you get a good cable to take advantage of all that graphical goodness. Sorting through all of the factors, we’ve picked the best DisplayPort cables so you can spend less time staring at specs and product pages and more looking at whatever content gives your monitor life.

How we selected the best DisplayPort cables

Most DisplayPort cables are going to mechanically work relatively the same, so the primary thing to look for is if you have the physical connection on your PC or laptop that will let the cable work with your favorite ultrawide monitor, that nice secondary monitor you’ve bought for working from home, or one of the best gaming monitors around. Once that’s out of the way, we wanted to look for other factors that could make the cable stand out, such as high-quality wiring, a budget price, or some other special “wow” factor. We scoured specs, peer suggestions, and user impressions in our quest for the best. In the end, any consumer will be able to find an affordable, workable cable in our selection.

The best DisplayPort cables: Reviews & Recommendations

Our list of the best DisplayPort cables will cover a wide range of lengths and cord styles, but all of the cords should retain high quality and reasonably high-resolution capacities. The average consumer will be happy with any cable on the list, but there are also some great alternatives for specific situations that the discerning buyer might face.

Best overall: KabelDirekt – 15ft

KabelDirekt

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Why it made the cut: The KabelDirekt is a lengthy, officially certified cable with a long lifespan and the capacity to reduce flickering in your screens.

Specs

  • Length: 15 ft.
  • Version: 1.4
  • Resolution capacity: 8K@60Hz, also works for 240Hz and 144Hz

Pros

  • Locking connector
  • 3-year warranty
  • Easily reduces flickering

Cons

  • No built-in cord control

The KabalDirekt is the standard DisplayPort cable of the 1.4 version style. As it comes VESA certified, you know that you are getting the standard 1.4 experience and nothing less. This level of quality is compounded with a 3-year warranty and a multitude of customers raving about having reduced monitor flickering while using this KabelDirect.

KabelDirect also has a USB-C to DisplayPort version if you happen to be using a USB-C monitor that supports a DisplayPort signal, such as the Acer Nitro XV282K KVbmiipruzx.

While the 15-foot length of the cable is impressive with the given specs, I was a bit disappointed by the lack of built-in cord controls. That being said, this cable works wonderfully and will make the majority of people very happy. If you’re looking for something that excels in other ways, though, please read on.

Best quality: FURUI Nylon

FURUI

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Why it made the cut: The FURUI Nylon is the best version 2.0 DisplayPort cable you can buy. 

Specs

  • Length: 6 ft.
  • Version: 2.0
  • Resolution capacity: 16K@60Hz, 10K@60Hz, 8K@120Hz

Pros

  • Highly durable cord can survive over 16,000 bends
  • Uses the highly quality 2.0 DisplayPort version, capable of 16K resolution
  • VESA certified

Cons

  • No locking mechanism

The FURUI Nylon presents us with a superb DisplayPort cable that is capable of producing an 8K resolution quality even at 120Hz. For the high-end monitors of the future, it can even go up to a whopping 16K. It can be hard to believe how high the quality of the FURUI’s resolution capacity is, far surpassing the needs of most consumers, but you can rest assured … the FURUI comes VESA certified.

Talking about high numbers, the FURUI is promoting a stat most companies do not: max bends. According to FURUI, the cord can withstand over 16,000 bends without degrading. While I doubt anybody has taken the time to independently test this with their own two hands, the nylon-braided exterior certainly seems durable! And triple shielding helps block out electromagnetic interference (EMI).

So, what is the FURUI Nylon lacking? One of those click-button locks to secure the cable in its port. That’s it; otherwise, this is the next-gen DisplayPort cable your futuristic monitors deserve.

Best gaming: Capshi DP Cable

Capshi

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Why it made the cut: This cable from Capshi was made with gamers in mind, and they seem to like it!

Specs

  • Length: 10 ft.
  • Version: 1.4
  • Resolution capacity: 8K@60Hz, 4K@144Hz, 1080P@240Hz

Pros

  • Made with gamers in mind
  • Good price
  • High customer satisfaction
  • VESA certified

Cons

  • No locking mechanism

The Capshi DisplayPort cable is made with gaming monitors in mind, targeting frequencies thought to be best for gamers. A high user rating shows that gamers do, indeed, approve. It also happens to be VESA certified, so you know exactly what you’re getting when it comes to quality.

The cord is thin and bendable, so you can snake it around tricky setups. It will also stay relatively discrete with the black, nylon outer covering. Lastly for appearances, when you put the Capshi into storage, you won’t have any difficulty knowing what it is when you retrieve it months or even years later as “8K” is largely and prominently displayed on its head.

If you really like the locking-in mechanism that so many DisplayPort cables have, you’ll probably be a bit sad that it isn’t there. You’ll quickly recover when you see the price tag, though, as the Capshi DisplayPort cable is somewhat cheaper than other similarly capable cables.

Best premium wiring: UGREEN 8K

UGREEN

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Why it made the cut: The UGREEN 8k is multi-layered to protect the wires inside and look nice while doing it.

Specs

  • Length: 10 ft.
  • Version: 1.4
  • Resolution capacity: 8K@60Hz, 4K@144Hz, 2K@165Hz

Pros

  • Outer braided shielding is a stylish, shiny black
  • Golden colored heads
  • Click-button locking

Cons

  • Wide plugs (could be a plus)

For those of you looking for a snazzier cord, the UGREEN 8K should do the trick. The wires inside the cable are triple-layered, using layers of tin, aluminum, and nylon braids to reduce EMI. That outer nylon braid layer is a rich, shiny black that will compliment your battlestation’s LED light strips. The golden heads are a nice touch as well, with the click-button locking being a nice functional addition.

The plugs themselves are a touch wider than the average. For most people, this won’t be a problem and will allow for a snugger fit in looser ports. However, if you’re using a port that isn’t allowing room for a bit extra, you might not have as good of a time.

Best budget: Amazon Basics 8K

Amazon Basics

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Why it made the cut: This basic cable is in the single-digit price range and comes from Amazon, ensuring Amazon-level support.

Specs

  • Size: 6-feet long, 1/4-inch thick
  • Version: 1.4
  • Resolution capacity: 4K@120Hz, 8K@60Hz

Pros

  • Can achieve 4K and even 8K on a budget
  • Amazon Basics level of customer care
  • Consistently delivers

Cons

  • No locking mechanism
  • Very wide cord (this could be a plus)

For our budget pick, we once again turn to the Amazon Basics store. In my mind, this is already a plus, since you’re likely already used to the brand and know what to expect from their customer service. The Amazon Basics DisplayPort cable provides a consistent DisplayPort connection and decent customer service, but how does it stack up in terms of functionality?

Just about the same as any of the other 1.4 DisplayPort cables on this list—4K@120Hz and 8K@60Hz really shouldn’t be making you blink an eye at this point. The wires themselves are quite standard.

Where Amazon cuts back and saves money is through the wire’s coating and head. Instead of using fancy nylon or metallic coverings, Amazon just uses a thicker wire. While this could be good for people worried about damaging their cable’s inner components, the thickness greatly reduces flexibility and can make running it through tight spaces challenging. The connector heads are also lacking the clicking lock mechanisms, which can also serve to disappoint.

While these setbacks make the Amazon Basics DisplayPort a difficult recommendation for a portable second monitor, it excels in just about every other way.

Things to consider before buying DisplayPort cables

DisplayPort cables are not super complicated, but there are some things that you’ll need to take into account before making a purchase. Your room or office setup will be one of the more critical factors. The distance between your monitor and the CPU, how many twists and bends the cord will need to make, and what kind of equipment you’re connecting all play a relevant role in this, too. To make it simple, we’ve broken this all down into three key things to consider when finding the best DisplayPort cable for your setup:

Length & width

An obvious reminder here first: You need to get a cable that is, at minimum, long enough to reach between the two devices you’re connecting. So, you absolutely have to remember to check the dimensions of your space against the length of the cable before purchasing it. Be sure to get something that will afford you a bit of wiggle room, too, as you don’t want to be unable to adjust your setup later on.

However, can you get a DisplayPort cable that is too long? Actually, yes. Beyond becoming a tripping hazard, the quality of a DisplayPort cable will go down the longer it is. Fortunately, this isn’t really a problem for customers because DisplayPort cable manufacturers will give you the resolution capacity (see below) of the cables they sell for the size they are sold in. If you buy a wire that fits your resolution needs and length needs, you’re good to go!

Now, what about width? Thicker cables are less bendy but are less flimsy and less prone to wear and tear bending. Thinner cables can be snaked into smaller places and bent at sharper angles, but will always be more susceptible to damage. High-quality coatings and protective materials on the outside of the cable improve durability for cables of all widths.

Version

Primarily, you’ll hear about DisplayPort 1.2, 1.4, and 2.0 cables. Our recommendation is to get 1.4 and higher DisplayPort cables. DisplayPort version 1.4 is able to take advantage of 8K video resolutions and supports nearly all audio formats, making it a fine choice for most consumers.

All of our recommended DisplayPort cables run 1.4, except for the FURUI Nylon, which runs DisplayPort version 2.0. Version 2.0 is capable of beyond 8K resolution, transmitting image data at lightning-fast speeds, and is backward-compatible with 1.4 if you need it to be. Still, at this point, you are unlikely to be in a position to truly need such a cable.

Resolution capacity

We’ve been alluding to it this whole time while discussing cable length and version, but one of the biggest defining features of a DisplayPort cable is its resolution capacity. Depending on the refresh rate used, cables have different max resolution capacities.

That sounds a bit confusing, so let’s use the Capshi cable’s stats to explain: 8K@60Hz, 4K@144Hz, 1080P@240Hz. At a refresh rate of 60Hz (60 frames per second), you can get an 8K resolution, while at a refresh rate of 240Hz you can only get 1080P.

Two things to note are the inverse relationship between resolution quality and refresh rate and the fact that your monitor will also be a major limiting factor. Just because your DisplayPort cable is capable of an 8K resolution, doesn’t mean your monitor will support such a thing.

FAQs

Q: How much does a DisplayPort cable cost?

A DisplayPort cable usually costs around $10 to $20. The materials that go into the cables aren’t too expensive, so manufacturers are able to keep them cheap. If you see a DisplayPort cable going for over $50, approach that cable with a wary eye.

Q: Are DisplayPort cables all the same?

No, DisplayPort cables are not all the same. While they all have a similar appearance, the wiring can have different standards or versions. Today, most people will want at least version 1.4 and possibly 2.0. That bargain-bin DisplayPort cable at your local office supply store might appear to be just like any other DisplayPort, but could easily be a version 1.2, capable of transferring much lower resolutions than modern DisplayPort cables.

Q: Do DisplayPort cables matter for gaming?

DisplayPort cables might matter for your gaming setup. All DisplayPort cables have differing capabilities in resolution capacities at various refresh rates. If you have a gaming monitor with fantastic specs, just don’t use a low-quality DisplayPort cable to connect to it.

Final thoughts on the best DisplayPort cables

Getting a DisplayPort cable shouldn’t be a headache. While there can be some nuance for some situations, you are unlikely to not find satisfaction with at least one cable from this list. DisplayPort cables themselves are relatively simple, with the devices they connect with usually being the source of any difficulties.

The post The best DisplayPort cables of 2023 appeared first on Popular Science.

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The best ergonomic mouse of 2023 https://www.popsci.com/story/reviews/best-ergonomic-mouse/ Thu, 18 Feb 2021 16:59:00 +0000 https://stg.popsci.com/uncategorized/best-ergonomic-mouse/
The best ergonomic mice
Brandt Ranj / Popular Science

Numbness and tingling from carpal tunnel and arthritis are no joke, so rejuvenate your hand and wrist with a great ergonomic mouse.

The post The best ergonomic mouse of 2023 appeared first on Popular Science.

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The best ergonomic mice
Brandt Ranj / Popular Science

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Best overall Logitech MX Master 3S Logitech MX Master 3S
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A dedicated thumbwheel and controls above the rest offer superior flexibility while demanding little hand movement.

Best trackball Logitech ERGO M575 is the best ergonomic mouse Logitech ERGO M575
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This mouse allows users precise control of their cursor without the need to move the mouse using their wrist and arm.

Best wired Lizsword Wired Gaming Mouse Lizsword Wired Gaming Mouse
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If you prefer a cord, this pick is both ergonomically designed and affordable.

Whether you spend long hours sitting at a computer each day or you only sit down to check your emails intermittently, the likelihood of developing joint discomfort, carpal tunnel, and other wrist-related disorders increases with every minute spent at a computer desk, which is why you need to use an ergonomic mouse. Finding the best ergonomic mouse for your personal setup will mitigate the common causes of these problems by allowing your wrist and hand to maintain a more natural position while working to decrease tension in the tendons and nerve pathways of the area. Because all activities that require repetitive hand movements and unnatural hand positions carry the risk of causing inflammation to the sensitive areas of the hand, long-term ailments like tendonitis and arthritis are extremely common in office settings.

While this effect can be offset by good practices and preventative measures like stretching, massaging, and muscle rest, it is just as important to use ergonomic office accessories to tackle the underlying cause of these issues. Users currently experiencing these symptoms, as well as those who are looking to prevent them, can all benefit from using well-designed computer accessories, and ergonomic mice are the perfect place to start. From a vertical mouse to a trackball mouse and everywhere in between, we’ll break down some of the features of the best ergonomic mice on the market that will benefit any user’s well-being.

How we picked the best ergonomic mice

When looking for the best ergonomic mouse for particular needs, we factored in the specific activities you’d use it for, whether gaming, photo editing, general productivity, or a mix of uses. Existing hand and wrist issues, budget, space, and equipment sharing were also important considerations to keep in mind. For the vast majority of users, an ergonomic mouse that most resembles a traditional mouse both in form factor and usage will be the easiest to adjust to and the easiest to learn. The benefits of ergonomic mice tend to increase as the form factor shifts away from conventional designs, with some involving sideways, or “vertical” designs that require a click movement that’s closer to pulling a trigger than pushing a button. With this in mind, we researched and tried firsthand designs that split the difference between fully vertical and traditional so you can find your perfect balance of familiarity and versatility. We sit at our desks far too much, scrolling through the internet to find the latest, greatest products, so we are deeply invested in tech that can ease wear and tear on our bodies.

The best ergonomic mouse for every user: Reviews & Recommendations

The best ergonomic mouse overall will feature a shape that allows the hand to fall naturally over the surface of the mouse instead of requiring the palm to tilt down and back toward the user, which will take pressure off the tendons in the wrist. A design that offers a dedicated, expanded grip area for users’ thumbs can add greatly to ergonomic benefits as well. You should also look for traditional features, like dedicated scroll wheels that are easy to access with minimal finger movement required and wireless connectivity to allow a full range of desktop motion when needed.

Best overall: Logitech MX Master 3S

Brandt Ranj / Popular Science

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Specs

  • Wireless: Yes
  • Weight: 5 ounces
  • Price: $99.99

Pros

  • Thumb rest
  • Extra programmable buttons
  • Ultra-responsive scroll wheel

Cons

  • Price

The Logitech MX Master 3S is the best ergonomic mouse overall thanks to its comfortable hybrid design, flexibility, and a multitude of productivity-enhancing features. Its battery lasts up to 70 days on a single charge and offers around three hours of use from one minute of charging. A dedicated thumbwheel and controls above the thumb rest offer superior flexibility while demanding little hand movement, and it’s ready to use with multiple operating systems.

This mouse may look intimidating, but it feels immediately natural in the hand. The MX Master 3S’ buttons are extremely quiet—so much so that we can wholeheartedly recommend this mouse for office use—and the scroll wheel moves along with satisfying, incremental clicks. We didn’t know what to make of the thumb wheel at first, but found it to be incredibly useful when working in image editing applications, which is when horizontal scrolling was most helpful. If you work in Photoshop, Illustrator, or InDesign, you need this mouse.

One of the MX Master 3S’ most convenient features is the ability to pair it with up to three Bluetooth devices. A button on the bottom of the mouse lets you switch between connections, but will never get pressed accidentally as you’re mousing around. We could use the mouse with both our personal and work laptops, and switch between them without a hitch. The biggest surprise we found while testing this mouse was the usefulness of Logitech’s Logi Options software, which allows us to designate a specific function to the mouse’s scroll wheel click and side buttons. Accessing core system features without taking our hand off the mouse was a huge time saver.

Logitech’s MX Master 3S is an ergonomic triumph, but it’s such a powerful, precise instrument that we could recommend it to anyone looking for a wireless mouse for creative work.

Best for gaming: Razer Viper V2 Pro

Razer

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Specs

  • Wireless: Yes
  • Weight: 1.87 ounces
  • Price: $149.99

Pros

  • Ambidextrous
  • 30k optical sensor
  • Light weight

Cons

  • Price

An ergonomic mouse is a must-have accessory for gamers because playing online matches requires constant movement and clicking, which can cause RSI (Repetitive Strain Injury) if done with the wrong tool. Razer’s Viper V2 Pro is small, light, and designed to use with either hand. If you’re a left-handed person using a mouse designed for right-handed people, you may feel discomfort regardless of what you use your computer for.

We like the ergonomic benefits of the Viper V2 Pro, but it’s also a beast on the performance front. The mouse’s optical sensor is incredibly precise, and allows the mouse to be used on any type of surface. Many gamers shun wireless peripherals because of latency (lag) between their actions (movement, button clicks) and what’s represented on screen. Still, Razer says its mouse can communicate with your computer 25% faster than the competition. If you’re still worried about latency, you can plug the Viper V2 Pro into your computer with the included USB cable. Additionally, the mouse can run for over 80 hours per charge, which is helpful if you often game and forget to plug it in.

Razer has a solid track record of making incredibly compelling accessories for gamers, and it’s made sure that the Viper V2 Pro mouse is efficient and comfortable to use for everybody. If you’re partial to wireless accessories but think you can’t use them for gaming, this mouse is an even better choice.

Best vertical mouse for arthritis: Logitech MX Vertical Wireless Mouse

Amazon

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Specs

  • Wireless: Yes
  • Weight: 4.76 ounces
  • Price: $89.99

Pros

  • Thumb rest
  • Bluetooth and receiver wireless options
  • Programmable side buttons

Cons

  • Shape may not be for everyone

The Logitech MX Vertical is the best vertical mouse for arthritis sufferers and users with symptoms from carpal tunnel syndrome. A 57-degree angle keeps your hand in a neutral position during use to prevent twisting of the forearm muscles and release tension in the wrist area. The ergonomic mouse connects to computers via Bluetooth, USB receiver, or USB-C charging cables, and it features a battery that lasts up to four months on a single charge. Anyone suffering from ongoing ailments or looking to prevent their development will appreciate the relief this form factor and design provide. Still, one downside to this unit is the lack of sideways scrolling capability that other trackballs and trackpads provide.

Best horizontal mouse: Microsoft Sculpt

Amazon

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Specs

  • Wireless: Yes
  • Weight: 5.47 ounces
  • Price: $38.35

Pros

  • Curved design
  • Thumb rest
  • Price

Cons

  • Size

Microsoft has been at the forefront of the ergonomic computer accessory revolution for years, and its Sculpt mouse continues that tradition. The wireless mouse has a thumb scoop on the side and a moderately sloped surface that make it the best ergonomic horizontal mouse on the market. A dedicated button offers Windows users quick access to the Start menu, and it connects to users’ systems via an included USB transceiver. USB receivers are more cumbersome than using a mouse that connects via Bluetooth, but it’s still easier than using a mouse with a cable.

The Microsoft Sculpt Ergonomic Mouse runs off of two AA batteries and offers a battery life of up to 12 months before needing replacement. Importantly, the mouse works with both Macs and Windows computers despite it being made by Microsoft. Our only minor qualm with Microsoft’s ergonomic mouse is its small size, which may make it a little difficult to use if you’ve got bigger hands. If that isn’t a concern, or you’d like a mouse that’s portable and has a horizontal orientation, this is a solid choice.

Best left-handed mouse: Logitech Lift

Logitech

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Specs

  • Wireless: Yes
  • Weight: 4.4 ounces
  • Price: $66.90

Pros

  • Designed for lefties
  • Multi-device pairing
  • Thumb rest

Cons

  • Limited audience

We mentioned this earlier, but left-handed people shouldn’t be using a mouse designed for right-handed folks, as everything from button positioning to their overall shape won’t feel right. Alternatively, Logitech’s Lift was designed specifically for lefties. The vertically oriented mouse allows you to grip it at a 57-degree angle and has a dedicated thumb rest for added comfort. The Lift’s curved shape makes it easier to grip overall. Logitech says it designed the Lift for people with small to medium-sized hands, so keep that in mind if yours are on the larger side.

This wireless mouse can be paired with up to three devices and runs on a single AA battery. Logitech says the Lift can run for up to two years without being charged, so you won’t have to swap the battery very often. We’ve selected the Logitech Lift in this category based on (literally) hands-on research. Still, it should be mentioned that the mouse is certified by United State Ergonomics, who tested it thoroughly before giving its stamp of approval. If you’re a left-handed person struggling to find a comfortable mouse or have completely given up and begrudgingly chosen to use a trackpad, the Logitech Lift deserves your attention.

Best wired: Lizsword Wired Gaming Mouse

Lizsword

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Specs

  • Wireless: No
  • Weight: 6.4 ounces
  • Price: $13.59

Pros

  • Programmable LEDs
  • Customizable buttons
  • Price

Cons

  • Less convenient to use than wireless mice

This wired gaming mouse from Lizsword is the best wired ergonomic mouse we could find, especially given its sub-$20 price tag. Advanced features like the ability to change the mouse’s sensitivity using a physical button instead of software, built-in LEDs, and additional customizable buttons make it a great overall pick if you don’t mind a mouse that needs to be plugged in at all times. That one annoyance comes with the benefit of never needing to charge the mouse or worrying about its battery level if you take it traveling. If you’re only going to use your ergonomic mouse at a desk, there’s no real downside to choosing a wired one instead of going wireless besides convenience.

Ridges on the sides of the mouse make it easier and more comfortable to grip, while protruding side buttons are easy to find and hit without looking down. Lizsword says its mouse’s right and left click buttons can be pressed over five million times without showing signs of degradation. The company also provides software that allows you to change the function of each of this mouse’s buttons to make it easier to use. You also have the option to change its sensitivity this way. If you prefer to use wired accessories or want to save a few bucks, this is the ergonomic mouse to get.

Things to consider when buying the best ergonomic mouse

Gaming performance

Even outside the realm of ergonomic computer accessories, gaming mice are set apart from traditional computer mice by using designs that favor comfort, precision, and speed, especially over longer periods of use.

When choosing an ergonomic gaming mouse, it’s not uncommon to find designs that feature a wealth of easy-to-access onboard programmable buttons that allow users to bind specific functions or actions to their specialized mouse. This extended functionality is miles ahead of that offered by traditional mice and has beneficial applications in gaming as well as graphic design, media editing, and more. High-speed, low-latency responsiveness, and wireless connectivity are key features to look for in the best ergonomic gaming mice, to ensure that every small movement made translates accurately and precisely to the screen. For users looking to customize their PC gaming rig’s visual design fully, it’s also important to seek out an ergonomic gaming mouse that includes customizable chroma lighting to ensure a proper match to the rest of their computer accessories.

Vertical orientation

Arthritis is an ailment as unsavory as it is common. It usually begins due to—or is exacerbated by—repetitive movements that can include typing on a keyboard or scrolling with a mouse. The best ergonomic mouse for arthritis will allow users to keep their fingers, hand, and wrist in a position that minimizes joint stress, thereby decreasing the likelihood of contributing to joint swelling and worsening symptoms. Left untreated or unaddressed, arthritis-related swelling in the wrist can lead to the development of carpal tunnel syndrome, which can contribute to numbness, tingling, and pain in the fingers.

When looking for an ergonomic mouse for arthritis, choose a vertical mouse model that allows the hand and wrist to sit in a natural position, angled with the pinky finger closer to the desk surface. Doing so will decrease twisting in the joints and ligaments and reduce pressure in the forearm and wrist area, as well as limit the overall muscle use required for mouse movement. Look for a model that includes a thumb rest, too, as it will encourage and contribute to maintaining a more neutral resting position overall.

Horizontal orientation

In the world of computer accessories, the term “horizontal mouse” refers to the orientation of the user’s palm, which is why most traditional computer mice are classified as horizontal mice. The best ergonomic horizontal mouse will take some of the benefits of vertical mice and split the difference with traditional designs, allowing users to enjoy some, but not all, of the perks of an ergonomic model. Keep in mind that a horizontal orientation will always put some measure of stress on the wrist and forearm, so a horizontal mouse isn’t a good choice for users with existing wrist, hand, and arm issues.

The vast benefits of choosing an ergonomic horizontal mouse are apparent in situations where productivity and flexibility are the primary goals. Because of the design parallels to traditional computer mice, an ergonomic horizontal mouse will feel familiar in users’ hands, making it a good choice for office environments where there will be equipment sharing. No practice is required to use an ergonomic horizontal mouse, so users can simply sit down and begin enjoying a relatively more comfortable experience with no delay.

Trackball support

Trackball mouse designs have long been popular alternatives to traditional computer mice thanks to the intrinsic ergonomic benefits of the design. The best trackball mouse requires no wrist movement whatsoever, opting instead to allow users to control the cursor with minute movements of the fingers or thumbs by freely rolling the trackball in its place. By eliminating the need for wrist and arm movement on the desktop, the likelihood of developing or exacerbating wrist and arm problems through use of a trackball mouse is very low.

When looking for the best ergonomic mouse with a trackball, find a design that combines a vertical tilt or pitch for the users’ hand to lay comfortably while clicking, and a model with a removable and cleanable trackball for added longevity and flexibility. The limited movement requirements of a trackball mouse have benefits beyond the users’ wrists and hands, allowing these models to be used in especially cramped desk environments and making them a flexible option for productive work in almost any location.

Price

You don’t have to spend an unreasonable amount to enjoy the benefits of an ergonomic mouse, but there are a few sacrifices in design and flexibility that you’ll have to keep in mind if you’re looking to save money on these office accessories. More advanced features like trackball functionality and wireless connectivity drive up the price of ergonomic mice considerably, so you’ll most likely have to opt for a design that keeps you tethered to your computer via cabling and that requires some measure of wrist and arm movement. The best cheap ergonomic mouse will typically provide users with a horizontal design that allows the fingers and hand to fall naturally over the top of the mouse with limited arching or angling of the wrist. If you’re already suffering from symptoms of arthritis or carpal tunnel, it only makes sense to spend a little extra on a trackball or vertical design. Still, if you’re looking for a low-impact and easy-to-use ergonomic mouse on a budget, there are plenty of options for users like you.

FAQs

Q: How do I choose an ergonomic mouse?

If you have existing wrist and hand issues, going straight to a vertical mouse design is an easy way to ensure relief. Users with arthritis may want to steer clear of trackballs, however, due to the demands they place on finger movement. If you’ll be gaming or you’re looking for a more familiar feel, a horizontal ergonomic mouse may be the best option.

Q: What is the most comfortable mouse?

All of the best ergonomic mice on the market are designed to cut down on the aches, strains, and discomfort that come from the repetitive use of traditional office equipment. A vertical mouse is one of the most comfortable pieces of computer equipment available, as it allows the hand to rest in a natural, neutral position during use.

Q: What is the best mouse to use for carpal tunnel?

The best ergonomic mouse overall for carpal tunnel sufferers is the Logitech MX Vertical Wireless Mouse, thanks to its natural shape that takes the pressure off of the wrist and forearm area, allowing for the release of tension in the area. Any comparable vertical mouse that promotes a healthy hand position will offer users some relief from the compression that traditional computer accessories may demand.

Q: How much does an ergonomic mouse cost?

This depends on which features the ergonomic mouse has—especially the number of additional buttons—but you shouldn’t need to spend more than $100 on a premium ergonomic mouse. Some of our other recommendations cost well under $50.

A final word on shopping for the best ergonomic mouse

Finding the best ergonomic mouse for your desk will make a significant impact on the long-term health of your body by limiting tension in the joints and ligaments of your hand, wrist, and forearm. If you have existing carpal tunnel or arthritis, go with a vertical mouse that doesn’t have a trackball. A horizontal mouse is the best choice for gaming and overall flexibility. In contrast, a trackball mouse is a perfect choice for a desk with limited space or users with limited arm mobility.

Why trust us

Popular Science started writing about technology more than 150 years ago. There was no such thing as “gadget writing” when we published our first issue in 1872, but if there was, our mission to demystify the world of innovation for everyday readers means we would have been all over it. Here in the present, PopSci is fully committed to helping readers navigate the increasingly intimidating array of devices on the market right now.

Our writers and editors have combined decades of experience covering and reviewing consumer electronics. We each have our own obsessive specialties—from high-end audio to video games to cameras and beyond—but when we’re reviewing devices outside of our immediate wheelhouses, we do our best to seek out trustworthy voices and opinions to help guide people to the very best recommendations. We know we don’t know everything, but we’re excited to live through the analysis paralysis that internet shopping can spur so readers don’t have to.

The post The best ergonomic mouse of 2023 appeared first on Popular Science.

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The best laptop cooling pads for 2023 https://www.popsci.com/reviews/best-laptop-cooling-pads/ Thu, 28 Oct 2021 23:05:00 +0000 https://www.popsci.com/?p=405378
Best Laptop Cooling Pads

Keep your lap cool and your laptop cooler with the best laptop cooling pads.

The post The best laptop cooling pads for 2023 appeared first on Popular Science.

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Best Laptop Cooling Pads

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Best for gaming KLIM is the best laptop cooling pad. KLIM Ultimate Laptop Cooling Pad
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Bold RGB and excellent cooling performance should put the Klim Ultimate near the top of any gamer’s laptop cooler list.

Best for your lap Targus is the best laptop cooling pad. Targus 16-inch Dual Fan Chill Mat
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The Targus 16-inch Dual Fan Chill Mat has a rounded form-factor that makes it one of the few laptop coolers that’s comfortable to keep in your lap.

Best budget TopMate is the best laptop cooling pad. TopMate C5 Laptop Cooling Pad
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The TopMate C5 Laptop Cooling Pad uses power of five fans to cool even the hottest computer.

Using a laptop to play your favorite game on the go? Get ready for some uncomfortable heat that you’re going to want to escape—and fast. Laptop cooling pads, a plastic base stand for your laptop with large external fans, can enhance your PC’s performance. (Or, at the very least, keep them from blowing hot air on you.) Whether you just want to cool down your PC when it’s actually in your lap or enhance its internal ventilation, a cooling pad can be a useful, even necessary way to keep your laptop from overheating. As with every gadget, it can be difficult to figure out what kind works best for you and your machine. Luckily, we’ve selected some of the best laptop cooling pads available now, with options to fit most buyers’ use cases and budgets. 

How we selected the best laptop cooling pads

When selecting the best laptop cooling pads, I looked back on all of the pads I’ve personally owned over the years. I have tried a wide variety of different pads with varying fan strengths and laptops that tend to heat up quickly. I have primarily used larger gaming laptops throughout my career while reviewing games and creating similar PC-focused coverage, most of which have become uncomfortable to remain in my lap. This has occasionally made cooling pads a necessity, especially early on when I was just making a name for myself and couldn’t afford top-of-the-line tech or an office setup that allowed me proper ergonomics. In addition to my own experience, I’ve gathered recommendations from fellow tech reviewers, as well as customer reviews. 

Best laptop cooling pads: Reviews & Recommendations

There are a ton of laptop cooling pads out there. Our picks for the best pads offer a wide array of options geared toward specific types of users, from gamers with giant laptops to productivity-focused models designed to make an impact while staying out of your way. We also have options for people who want to spend as little as possible. Whatever your reason for investing in one of the best cooling pads, we’ve got your back.

Best for big computers: Thermaltake Massive 20 RGB

Why it made the cut: The Thermaltake Massive 20 RGB has the power to cool the biggest gaming laptops. 

Specs:

  • Dimensions: 13 x 2.5 x 14.25 inches
  • Number of Fans: 1 (200mm)
  • Fan Speed: Up to 800 RPM
  • Compatibility: Fits up to 19-inch laptops 
ProsCons
Can fit pretty much any laptop ever madeVery large
Adjustable height
RGB lighting

For this laptop cooler, the name says it all. The Thermaltake Massive 20 RGB is the best laptop cooling pad for really big computers. Good external cooling for large gaming laptops can be hard to find, on account of their unconventionally large chassis designs. This refreshed version of the Thermaltake Massive 20 is large enough to cool a monster “desktop replacement” laptop and it features RGB lighting to boot.

Unfortunately, its greatest strength is also its most significant issue. The Massive 20 RGB is very big. And while it can technically accommodate smaller laptops, it’s likely overkill for an ultrabook or a smaller laptop. The size also makes it a desk-only option.

Best quiet: Cooler Master Notepal XL

Why it made the cut: It’s a thinner, quieter alternative to the Thermaltake Massive 20 RGB.

Specs:

  • Dimensions: ‎12.01 x 14.92 x 1.85 inches
  • Number of Fans: 1 (230mm)
  • Fan Speed: Up to 800 RPM
  • Compatibility: Fits up to 17-inch laptops 
ProsCons
Built-in USB hub with three USB-A portsFan LED is blue-only
Thin, attractive design

If the Thermaltake Massive 20 RGB is too massive, the Cooler Master Notepal XL, as the best quiet laptop cooling pad, is a smaller alternative that doesn’t compromise too much on overall cooling power. In addition to being thinner and lighter, the Notepal XL features a USB Hub, adding three additional USB-A ports if you plug it in via USB. Our only complaint? The fan’s LED light only glows one color. That may not seem like a significant issue, but if you’ve spent thousands on a laptop and accompanying setup, finding out that the lighting clashes with your setup can be quite annoying.

Best thin: havit Laptop Cooler

Why it made the cut: This thin cooling pad is light but still has the cooling power of three fans.

Specs:

  • Dimensions: 14.96 x 1.18 x 11.02 inches
  • Number of Fans: 3 (110mm)
  • Fan Speed: Up to 1,100 RPM
  • Compatibility: Fits up to 17-inch laptops 
ProsCons
Metal mesh construction No fan speed control
Thin and portable
Three fans are better than one

The havit laptop cooler cooling pad is one of the best thin laptop cooling pads. Even with a slimmer form factor, it doesn’t sacrifice cooling power, though. Its three fans can spin up to 1,100 RPM, chilling even very hot gaming laptops. Unfortunately, it lacks a fan control, so you can’t dial back the power or, more importantly, turn down the sound of the fan spinning at full blast.

Best for gaming: KLIM Ultimate Laptop Cooling Pad

Why it made the cut: Bold RGB and excellent cooling performance should put this near the top of any gamer’s laptop cooler list.

Specs:

  • Dimensions: 16.73 x 12.4 x 1.69 inches
  • Number of Fans: 1 (200mm)
  • Fan Speed: Up to 750 RPM
  • Compatibility: Fits up to 17-inch laptops 
ProsCons
Four height settingsCan be hard to reach rear controls at certain height settings
RGB really pops

As the best laptop cooling pad for gaming, the KLIM Ultimate Laptop Cooling Pad is the RGB lover’s external cooling solution. It has a large, lower RPM fan that makes for quiet cooling. The lighting elements surround the pad, maximizing its colorful display, which you can customize with one of five strobing effects and seven color combinations. It also has four different height settings, which is great in theory but can make it hard to reach the rear lighting and fan controls, according to some users.

Best for your lap: Targus 16-inch Dual Fan Chill Mat

Why it made the cut: The Targus 16-inch Dual Fan Chill Mat has a rounded form factor that makes it one of the few laptop coolers that’s comfortable to keep in your lap.

Specs:

  • Dimensions: 14.1 x 1 x 10.6 inches
  • Number of Fans: 2 (80mm)
  • Fan Speed: 1,900 RPM
  • Compatibility: Fits up to 17-inch laptops 
ProsCons
Rubber stops keep it from slippingNo USB hub
Tilts slightly forward to help weight distribution

Most laptop coolers are designed to sit on a desk as part of a semi-permanent laptop workstation. That’s fine for some, but now that so many of us work from home, our “office” shifts from day to day. The Targus Dual Fan Chill Mat is one of the best laptop cooling pads for your lap that is actually meant to keep your laptop cool enough to rest. Its rounded edges and rubber pads keep it from slipping and it has a slight tilt to help with typing. If there’s one real drawback here, it’s the lack of a USB hub or USB passthrough.

Best budget: TopMate C5 Laptop Cooling Pad

Why it made the cut: The TopMate C5 Cooling Pad uses the power of five fans to cool even the hottest computer.

Specs:

  • Dimensions: 13 x 2.5 x 14.25 inches
  • Number of Fans: 5 (120mm x 1, 65mm x 4)
  • Fan Speed: Center fan: 1,200 RPM, Outer fans: 2,400 RPM
  • Compatibility: Fits up to 15.6-inch laptops 
ProsCons
Affordable No way to turn off LEDs
LCD screen tells you what mode you’re on
Two additional USB ports

The TopMate C5 Laptop Cooling Pad is the best cheap laptop cooling pad, but it’s surprisingly feature-packed. It combines four small fans with one larger center fan to provide maximum cooling power. It’s also the only cooler on the list with an LCD display that provides information on the current settings. Unfortunately, the blue LEDs can’t be disabled and they’re relatively bright, which might be annoying for some users. There are also two additional USB ports at the rear of the cooling pad, which let you power additional devices. 

What to consider when buying a laptop cooling pad

There are a ton of different cooling pads out there. They come in many different shapes and sizes. Do you want a thinner, quieter cooling pad that no one will ever notice? Or do you prefer something bold and colorful? The cooling power, compatibility with different laptop sizes, and connection options all make a difference, so pay attention to these things when you consider making a purchase.

What size pad should you buy?

When choosing a cooling pad, you’ll want to find one that fits the size of your computer. If it can’t fit under your device, you won’t get adequate cooling out of your new equipment. The cooling pad’s size may also have an impact on your home laptop setup: Keep in mind that a thicker, more powerful cooler will also lift your laptop higher off your desk (or lap) than a thin, stealthy one.

How powerful are the fans?

When you really think about it, a laptop cooling pad is really just an extra set of external fans. Comparing any set of cooling pads largely comes down to comparing the size and power of the fans.

Fan speed is crucially important. The faster the fans spin, the more air will blow to keep your laptop cool. Look for products with a higher number in this category, which signifies a stronger fan. An average laptop cooling pad’s speed range should be anywhere from 1,000 to 1,500 RPM. Anything higher will be incredibly efficient and able to chill your laptop much quicker. 

You’ll also want to look at the size of the fan (or fans) in the cooling pad. An average fan size of around 90-120mm for each unit is a good place to start. Some larger pads opt for an XXL fan, as large as 800mm. Bigger fans theoretically should be more powerful, as they can push more air than a smaller fan spinning at the same speed. A bigger fan moving at a slower speed may ultimately be less effective than a set of smaller fans blowing at high speed on the right spots. Ultimately, you need to look at both fan size and speed to get a full understanding of how much cooling the pad provides.

Being able to adjust a cooling pad’s fans is a perk, as you may not want them running at full blast all the time. In the end, choosing more powerful fans (in terms of either RPM or fan size) means you won’t have to wait as long to lower your laptop’s temperature, even if it has issues overheating regularly.

Can you put it on your lap?

Consider where you use your laptop before buying a cooling pad. Some cooling pads are a bit more unwieldy than others. Some are solidly built, like tanks, and meant to sit on a desk or table as part of a PC setup. Others are specifically made to slide under your laptop when resting on your legs. Ultimately, you will need to choose between higher power and a more versatile, portable pad, so keep in mind whether you’re buying it to keep your laptop from melting or to stay comfortable.

FAQs

Q: Do I really need to use a laptop cooling pad?

No, you don’t always need a cooling pad for your laptop. Laptops are already designed with cooling measures to avoid overheating to the point where they break themselves. That said, some gaming laptops can achieve small performance gains with better cooling, especially when your laptop is pushed to its limits. An older and/or cheaper laptop can get so hot it starts to perform worse or even needs to shut down: If you find yourself in that situation, a cooler can slow down the effects of overheating. The most profound effect, however, may be that a hot laptop can be uncomfortable to use, especially if you put it on your lap.

Q: Are laptop cooling pads potentially bad for your computer?

The only way a laptop cooling pad could negatively affect your laptop is if it blows hot air back into the chassis. If your laptop exhausts hot air down and your cooler blows air up, then it would just be blowing the hot air back into the laptop. As a precaution, consider checking your laptop’s fans and find where the hot air blows out of your machine so you can avoid this problem.

Q: How much can a laptop cooling pad cool down my laptop?

The degree to which a cooling pad chills a laptop depends on many variables, even with a specific laptop. Cooling performance will depend on the model of cooling pad, the model of laptop, how hard you’re pushing the laptop, ambient temperature, and humidity, among other factors.

As long as the cooling pad isn’t fighting against a laptop’s exhaust, there should be some improvement. However, these products are far from a silver bullet. A CPU cooler will allow you to run a game at higher settings or otherwise do things that your laptop couldn’t do before. If your laptop is overheating regularly to the point where it malfunctions or shuts down, there’s probably an issue with your system that will need to be repaired.

Our final thoughts on the best laptop cooling pads

Choosing the best laptop cooling pad is a great idea if you spend a lot of time working or gaming on a particular type of computer. Whether your lap gets a little sweaty when you’re getting some work done or you want your gaming laptop to chill out when playing your favorite game, try out a cooling pad for good results. There are plenty to test out and most are affordable enough that it’s easy to see which one works best for you.

The post The best laptop cooling pads for 2023 appeared first on Popular Science.

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Gear to help us (and you) keep those New Year’s resolutions https://www.popsci.com/gear/new-years-resolutions-ideas/ Sun, 01 Jan 2023 16:00:00 +0000 https://www.popsci.com/?p=502404
New Year's Resolution Gear
Brandt Ranj / Popular Science

These are the gadgets we're picking up to help keep us accountable in 2023.

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New Year's Resolution Gear
Brandt Ranj / Popular Science

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We’ve made it to 2023, which means the PopSci commerce and gear team has decided what our resolutions will be and what we’ll need to achieve them. It’s okay to be a New Year’s resolution skeptic—there are plenty of potential pitfalls in trying to make literal life-changing decisions overnight—but we’re taking a different approach. Our goals can be accomplished little by little over the course of the year, the gear we’re using won’t take up too much space, and we’re not afraid of facing some setbacks every little while. After all, it’s only self-care if it doesn’t cost you mental health. If you’re scrambling to figure out how to make your New Year’s resolutions happen, we hope our gear suggestions can provide a little clarity (and encouragement).

Vitamix FoodCycler FC-50

Jen McCaffery

SEE IT

An estimated 30 to 40 percent of the food supply in the United States is wasted, according to the USDA. If you’re looking to cut down on the amount of food waste you send to the landfill in 2023, Vitamix’s FoodCycler FC-50 can help. Just toss your vegetable peelings, egg shells, coffee grounds, and even chicken bones into the 2-liter container and press the on button. About four hours later, your scraps are turned into nutrient-rich soil you can use for your houseplants or in your garden. — Jen McCaffery, Director of Commerce

Kindle Paperwhite

Amazon

SEE IT

Too many times in 2022, I found myself laying in bed at 2 a.m., basking in the hypnotizing glow of TikTok. The lure of people arguing with belligerent neighbors or endless strings of air fryer chicken thigh recipes is just too strong. This year, I’m determined to replace those hours spent mindlessly swiping with reading, and I’m counting on Amazon’s Kindle Paperwhite to help me pull it off. The 6.8-inch touchscreen offers soft, warm light that won’t mess with my sleep after a marathon session spent reading Brandon Sanderson. Plus, the latest version charges via USB-C, so it’ll help my other resolution of getting rid of all the MicroUSB cables hanging around my house. — Stanley Horaczek, Executive Editor

Mr. Coffee Iced Coffee machine

Mr. Coffee

SEE IT

The iced coffee I like at a well-known chain has recently risen to nearly $6. Not even a raging caffeine addiction can justify that cost. This super-simple machine doesn’t rely on wasteful coffee pods and comes with an insulated cup, even though it works with pretty much any other cold up. It simply brews hot coffee over iced cubes, which is sure to make your coffee snob pals bristle, but it’s still better (and even cheaper) than the gas station swill I’ve been known to drink in the past. Plus, all that saved money leaves room in the coffee budget for fancy syrups to spruce up the wallet-friendly brew. — Stanley Horaczek, Executive Editor

Kindle Scribe

Amazon

SEE IT

I’m trying to (finally) complete The Artist’s Way, Julia Cameron’s crash course in kickstarting your creativity after about two years of stopping halfway. Part of the journey includes journaling three pages every morning—simply called “morning pages.” If you do the math, that’s a lot of pages and trees. I’m hoping the Kindle Scribe—with its paperwhite display and pen that won’t leave ink marks on my hands first thing in the morning—will help protect the environment and be the fancy, shiny, neat thing that gives me enough dopamine to organize my morning pages and complete the separate chapter prompts in one convenient, digital place. Spiritual and creative clarity, here I come. — Amanda Reed, Commerce Updates Writer

Garmin Forerunner 955

Garmin

SEE IT

Setting a fitness goal is one thing, but having a way to track your progress and keep you motivated is another beast entirely. Garmin’s Forerunner 955 is sleek and attractive, so you won’t mind wearing it all day, but it has a nearly endless list of features and tricks. Though it’s geared toward runners, it can track a long list of activities. It also connects to your phone for full smartwatch capabilities and provides workout suggestions when you are stumped on how to move on a given day. Plus, it makes it easy to see how your training is going and how you are progressing toward your goals, giving you specific insight on how you can improve when needed. — Abigail Ferguson, Associate Editor PopPhoto

Nest Hub Max Smart Display

Nest

SEE IT

Eating out (and ordering in) has always been pricier than cooking at home, but that is more true than ever right now. It’s hard fighting the temptation just to tap a few buttons and have food magically show up ready to eat at your door but, for me, having an easy way to follow recipes helps. I’m a recent Nest Hub enthusiast but have loved the larger screen that always stays on as I work through the steps of a recipe. And it makes it easy to store recipes I like in one place. But the biggest bonus is the ability to play music on something other than my phone, so I can jam out while I cook. It does wonders for making me not mind being in the kitchen even after a long day of work. — Abigail Ferguson, Associate Editor PopPhoto

Ring Fit Adventure

Nintendo

SEE IT

I will be making a concerted effort to be more active after years of COVID-inflicted lethargy, but my tool of choice may seem a little strange: a video game. Ring Fit Adventure is a game for the Nintendo Switch that comes with a Pilates ring and leg strap with slots for the system’s Joy-Con controllers. Accelerometers and gyroscopes in the Joy-Con can track your movement, which correlates to actions happening in the game. Instead of passively choosing an attack, you defeat enemies by doing squats, curls, and other exercises. As an avid gamer, I hope Ring Fit Adventure can slot into my lifestyle more easily than a set of barbells. — Brandt Ranj, Commerce Reporter

iFixit Pro Tech Toolkit

iFixit

SEE IT

Repairing technology can feel daunting, especially when many companies make documentation and spare parts difficult (if not impossible) to get, but that will not deter me next year. I have a great deal of respect for iFixit, a site that offers step-by-step instructions on how to disassemble and reassemble gadgets along with links to parts when possible. The site offers a tool kit with bits, spudgers, tweezers, and everything else you’ll need to get into your gear safely and easily. This kit is notable for featuring pentalobe screws, which are proprietary and designed by Apple. If you plan on joining the DIY movement next year, this kit deserves a spot in your workspace. — Brandt Ranj, Commerce Reporter

Bowers & Wilkins Px7 S2

Bowers & Wilkins

SEE IT

I’m ashamed to say I have a huge music backlog, but I plan to listen to one new (to me) album from front to back every day in 2023. I reserve the right to listen to one disc of a two-CD (or LP) record because I make the rules. While I love speakers, my tool of choice this time will be Bowers & Wilkins Px7 S2s, which are infinitely more portable. These Bluetooth headphones are the closest I’ve come to taking my at-home audio system—which consists of wired headphones, a tube amp, and a DAC—with me everywhere I go. Music sounds superb, the headphones are very comfortable, and their active noise cancellation is always top-notch. This is the resolution I’m most excited about, if for no other reason than spending dozens of hours with the Px7 S2s on my head. Maybe, if I’m feeling extra committed, I’ll even upgrade to the B&W Px8, the brand’s flagship wireless headphones that further refine the physical build and sonic profile. — Brandt Ranj, Commerce Reporter

Brava Oven Starter Set

Brava

SEE IT

Cooking at home more often is my final resolution of 2023, and the Brava Oven is the key to making it happen. The 10-in-1 oven supports multi-zone heating and makes a whole dinner faster than a conventional oven or stovetop. The oven can be operated using an app or its built-in touch screen, and Brava is continually updating its recipe library with new dishes to fit any dietary restrictions. Yes, it’s luxe, but cutting out one takeout order per week using the Brava will allow the machine to pay for itself. — Brandt Ranj, Commerce Reporter

OTOTO Gracula Garlic Crusher

OTOTO

SEE IT

I love garlic and plan on cooking more. This Gracula garlic crusher takes knife work out of the equation when presentation isn’t important and helps you get close to a minced consistency in a fraction of the time. On top of saving prep time, a way to work more fresh garlic into meals has the benefits of being a natural antibacterial/detoxifier, aiding blood circulation/lowered blood pressure, while also repelling vampires. Plus, it just tastes good. — Billy Cadden, Director of Commerce

AQUAFIT One Gallon Water Bottle

AQUAFIT

SEE IT

I wish this fit into my Aarke seltzer maker, but I guess good old-fashioned flat water will do. While attempting to cook more garlic-rich meals and use my Tempo daily, I decided to snag a gallon water bottle to keep me hydrated. Or at least try to convince me to stay hydrated. I bet you $10 it sits on my bedside table with the same water for weeks. — Billy Cadden, Director of Commerce

Arc’teryx Kyanite AR Hoodie and Pearl iZUMi Prospect Barrier Jacket

Arc’Teryx/Pearl iZUMi

SEE IT

In 2023, I want to get outdoors more. Hiking. Biking. Though I love reporting on tech, I need to get away from it more, even if for only a few hours. Just because I’m coming out of my virtual (and real) shell doesn’t mean I won’t need a protective layer or two, however. The Arc’teryx Kyanite AR Hoodie is a multisport midlayer that’s far from middle of the road. A worthwhile investment, it’s light, soft, stretchy, and, most importantly, surprisingly warm when traveling on the trail. Did I say I’m coming out of my shell? That doesn’t mean I won’t need some wind and water resistance if I’m in the saddle in the city, so I’m also hanging the Pearl iZUMi Prospect Barrier Jacket in my closet when I need something to cut a brisk breeze and absorb a bit of light rain and road spray. — Tony Ware, Associate Managing Editor, Commerce

Vasque Men’s Breeze Waterproof Hiking Boots

Tony Ware

SEE IT

If I’m going to maintain my getting-outdoors-more resolution throughout 2023, I need accessories that can also go the distance. And one of the most important is trusty mid-range footwear. Lightweight, breathable, and comfortable to … boot … the Vasque Breeze immediately impressed me by requiring zero break-in, then continued to impress me with its stability and traction. While I haven’t submerged my feet to test the proprietary VasqueDry waterproofing fully, I’ve had no complaints following some light but sustained drizzles. And, with each component of the boot’s construction being made from 25%, 60%, and sometimes 100% recycled materials, I can feel better for the Earth as I explore it. — Tony Ware, Associate Managing Editor, Commerce

The post Gear to help us (and you) keep those New Year’s resolutions appeared first on Popular Science.

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Best gaming tables of 2023 https://www.popsci.com/reviews/the-best-gaming-table-for-every-kind-of-board-game/ Tue, 23 Nov 2021 19:46:08 +0000 https://www.popsci.com/?p=376501
board game pieces on a table
Pixabay

Board, card, and word games are back in a big way. The right table can dramatically improve your game night.

The post Best gaming tables of 2023 appeared first on Popular Science.

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board game pieces on a table
Pixabay

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Best for puzzles The Jumbl Puzzle Board Rack is best for puzzle fanatics. Jumbl Puzzle Board Rack
SEE IT

The Jumbl Puzzle Board Rack makes it easy to store and organize lots of puzzle pieces.

Best budget The Stakmore Foldable Table is the best options for the price-conscious. Stakmore Folding Card Table
SEE IT

The Stakmore is a simple, but sturdy folding card table.

Best outdoor The Flash Furniture Table is the best for outdoor gaming. Flash Furniture Table
SEE IT

The Flash Furniture Table is simple, but endures the elements better than other, gaming-focused options.

With all the hubbub around video games—mobile, free-to-play, high-end console games, and more—an under-the-radar movement has elevated old-school board games back into the mainstream and onto gaming tables. More and more of us are playing tabletop games with our friends and family, remembering the fun of tactile strategy and competition. If you play board games often, having a dedicated surface can make your sessions easier, letting you focus on having a good time. There’s nothing worse than trying to play a board game on an uneven surface, or a table that’s too small, or one with cracks that your cards always seem to fall through. The best gaming tables ensure you never have an awkward setup.

The best gaming tables are designed specifically with tabletop games in mind. They often feature special compartments, covers, or built-in boards to make it easy to play a wide range of games. They can also serve as a fun, but versatile statement piece in your living room or den. The ideal table for board games is simple and sturdy, so they often work well as a coffee table or even a dining room table, depending on the size. (That said, you should probably avoid eating and drinking on the same surface as your game).

The best gaming tables: Here are our recommendations

Best overall: Arcade 1up Infinity Table

Arcade 1up

SEE IT

Specs:

  • Shape: Rectangle
  • Size: 24-inch and 32-inch
  • Material: Touchscreen
  • Built-in storage: None

Pros:

  • Touchscreen display
  • Tons of digital games
  • Online store offers new game downloads

Cons:

  • Expensive

This isn’t like a typical gaming table. The top surface is a high-end, 32-inch touchscreen that can display an entire library of popular games. Because the table supports multitouch, several players can gather around this digital gaming center and play popular games like Monopoly, Trivial Pursuit, Ticket to Ride, and a ton more without having to bust out a box and keep track of a ton of tiny pieces. The online store can download games directly to the table for up to six people so you’ll never get bored of your collection. The company also offers a cheaper 24-inch model with the same functionality, but if you’re going to play with four or even six people, you’ll appreciate the extra screen real estate. Of course, you can always turn the display off and use the table as a standard gaming surface. The rugged, impact-resistant surface can stand up to the kind of abuse that comes with ultra-competitive game nights.

Best for puzzles: Jumbl Puzzle Board Rack

Specs:

  • Shape: Rectangle
  • Size: 27″ x 35″
  • Material: Wood
  • Built-in storage: 5 shallow drawers

Pros:

  • Sturdy wood construction
  • Raised edges on two sides
  • Drawers for piece storage

Cons:

  • Slightly heavy

This table is designed for puzzles, with six shallow trays that are perfect for storing jigsaw pieces. But it’s actually much more versatile than that. The Jumbl is 13 inches tall, which is around the height of a coffee table. That means you can use it on the floor in a coffee table position, in front of a couch, but you can also place it on top of any other surface, like a dining room table or a kitchen island. That makes it perfect for a mess-free game night: You can place your drinks or food on the permanent surface, and keep your games elevated and out of harm’s way on top of the Jumbl.

Best upgrade: Wyrmwood Prophecy

Specs:

  • Shape: Rounded rectangle
  • Size: 52″ x 88″
  • Material: Solid wood
  • Built-in storage: Optional

Pros:

  • Beautiful craftsmanship
  • Lots of optional additions
  • Clever crank system to raise and lower surface

Cons:

  • Expensive
  • Long wait list

Look, this table isn’t going to be for everyone. In fact, it’s going to be for hardly anyone: It starts in the thousands of dollars, is available in exotic materials like Bolivian rosewood and Macassar ebony, and the options—including a custom-made elevation mechanism—will run you thousands of dollars more. But hoo boy, what a table this is. Hand-crafted in the United States, with a recessed gaming surface and a magnetic rail system for modular accessories, this is the ultimate in gaming luxury.

Best budget: Stakmore Folding Card Table

Specs:

  • Shape: Square
  • Size: 32″ x 32″
  • Material: Wood
  • Built-in storage: None

Pros:

  • Holds up to 150- pounds
  • Folds very flat for storage
  • Easy to move around
  • Solid wood surface

Cons:

  • Limited space for complex games

The card table is a classic American design for gaming (or eating, or anything else): a lightweight tabletop with four legs that fold flat against the surface. This model folds into an extremely portable 3.375 inches in height, but is constructed of solid, sturdy wood, and won’t feel flimsy at all. It’s a perfect option for those who want space to game, but don’t want to have a gaming table on display all the time.

Best outdoor: Flash Furniture Table

Specs:

  • Shape: Rectangle
  • Size: 31″ x 63″
  • Material: Powder coated metal
  • Built-in storage: None

Pros:

  • Rubber feet to prevent scuffing
  • Sturdy metal construction holds ample weight
  • Powder coating protects surfaces
  • Lots of color options

Cons:

  • No storage

Most outdoor tables aren’t ideal for gaming; they might be constructed of wicker or other uneven surfaces, might have slats that can catch cards, and might warp in the fury of the outdoors. This Flash Furniture model, though, is huge, at 31.5 by 63 inches, and comes in sturdy metal painted with a variety of cheerful colors. It’s a great table for gaming because it provides a large, multi-use flat surface—it’ll be great for picnics as well as a rousing game of cards.

Things to consider when shopping for the best gaming tables

Different gaming tables have different features, and it can be helpful to know what kind of gamer you are before shopping. Are you really into puzzles, or card games like poker, or sprawling board games like Settlers of Catan? Each of those setups can be optimized for a specific type of table. Felt is an ideal surface for card games, because it makes sliding cards to each player easy and smooth. Circular tables are perfect for varying numbers of players, just as easily hosting three or five people as a four-sided table can host four.

Some tables can change their heights—you might want a gaming table a little bit higher than a dining table—and others can fold up their legs for easy storage. There are even some in the works like the Arcade 1Up Infinity Game Table that have gone fully digital. They’re designed with downloadable versions of classic games—though they’re not super common just yet. What kind of table you should look for depends on how you like to game, but rest assured, there’s an option for everyone.

A final word about the best gaming tables

The best gaming tables provide a sturdy, stable surface for everything from marathon D&D sessions to quick-and-dirty games of checkers. While you can spend tons of cash to get something custom built, you don’t have to if that’s not in your budget. We like the Arcade 1up Infinity table because it works as a normal table, but it also has a huge arsenal of digital games built-in. Whatever you pick, just make sure it can stand up to the rage someone feels when they get the Queen of Spades for the third game in a row.

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What to do with your brand new console before you start gaming https://www.popsci.com/diy/how-to-set-up-new-nintendo-switch-xbox-ps5/ Wed, 28 Dec 2022 13:00:00 +0000 https://www.popsci.com/?p=502236
Close up to hands holding a Playstation 5 controller
Change the key settings on your console before you start gaming.

You want to make sure your console works exactly how you like it before you dive into gaming.

The post What to do with your brand new console before you start gaming appeared first on Popular Science.

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Close up to hands holding a Playstation 5 controller
Change the key settings on your console before you start gaming.

We may earn revenue from the products available on this page and participate in affiliate programs. Learn more ›

If you’ve got yourself a brand new PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X, Xbox Series S, or Nintendo Switch, your first instinct will probably be to dive in right away and start gaming. And as much fun as that sounds, it’s worth pausing and spending some time tweaking the console’s settings first.

From making sure the graphics are optimized on your television screen, to reducing the amount of power your gaming machine draws, playing around with these settings can make a significant difference. Once you’ve configured them to your satisfaction, the gaming can begin.

How to configure your brand new Sony PlayStation 5

On the PS5 you can get to the Settings screen via the cog icon in the top-right corner of the main interface. One key option that’s worth changing is Performance Mode or Resolution Mode, which you’ll find under Saved Data and Game/App Settings and Game Presets. Here you can either prioritize performance, resulting in higher frame rates and smoother on-screen graphics; or resolution, resulting in a higher pixel count and a crisper image. Some games can max out both, but if you need to compromise, here you can choose where you’d rather cut resources.

[Related: Xbox Series X vs PS5: How to pick between the two biggest new game consoles]

Another feature we’d recommend turning on is the variable refresh rate or VRR. This feature pushes frame rates higher by allowing your hardware to change the game’s refresh rate on the fly, resulting in smoother gameplay and less stuttering on compatible games and screens. To set this up on the PS5, open Settings and head to Screen and Video, Video Output, and VRR. Only some titles, TVs, and monitors support VRR, so if you’re not sure if your setup is among them, search online for the make and model of your display to find out. 

To get a better idea of how much power your PS5 is using up, go to Settings and head to System, and then Power Saving. There are three options to configure here: How long the console should wait before going into rest mode, which features (such as internet access) remain accessible in rest mode, and how long the delay should be before the controllers automatically turn off. Each option affects how much energy the PS5 consumes.

It’s also a good idea to take some time to customize the setup of your controllers—you’re going to be spending a long time holding them, after all. From Settings, choose Accessories and Controller (General). As well as options for adjusting the intensity of vibrations and trigger effects, you can change the controller’s speaker volume and even remap certain buttons to suit your way of playing.

How to configure your brand new Microsoft Xbox Series X and Xbox Series S

On the Xbox Series X and Xbox Series S you can get to the Settings screen via the cog icon in the top right corner of the main interface. Once you’re there, if your console is hooked up to a TV, your first stop should be to make sure they play nicely together. To check if your Xbox is set to the right resolution for your screen go to General, TV & display options, and then Resolution. From TV & Display options you’ll also be able to give your console the power to turn your TV on and off automatically—just go to Device control then HDMI-CEC.

To customize the level of energy your Xbox needs through features like Remote Access and Sleep mode, go to Settings, pick General and then go to Power options. You can either pick one of the presets or choose Customize power options for more detailed control. Notice the bar on the right: it will keep updating to show you how much power your device will use while it’s off under the current settings.

You definitely don’t want to dive into gaming without customizing the screenshot options—otherwise, you might miss capturing a moment of glory. In Settings, you can pick Preferences then Capture & share to change which controller buttons do what in terms of screen capture, and set defaults for the video capture resolution and clip length.

It’s also a good idea to make sure that notifications from games and the Xbox system itself work just how you like them before you load up any games—you don’t want a pop-up appearing in the middle of the action. Choose Preferences and then Notifications from the Settings screen, to configure which type of events generate notifications, how long they show up for, and where on screen they appear.

How to configure your brand-new Nintendo Switch

To find the Settings panel on a Nintendo Switch, select System Settings (the button showing the cog icon) from the main home screen. If you’ve bought the console for a child, you might want to put an age limit on the games they can play by selecting Parental Controls and Parental Control Settings. You’ll find more advanced controls, such as screen time restrictions, through the companion app available for Android and iOS.

The Nintendo Switch was designed for gaming on the go, and with that in mind, it’s important that you always know how much battery life you’ve got left. The default indicator up in the top right corner is pretty helpful, but you can get a more accurate reading by selecting System and then Console Battery % from Settings.

[Related: Nintendo Switch vs. Lite: Which of Nintendo’s handheld gaming consoles should you buy?]

You’ll also want to control when your Switch console goes to sleep, which you can configure through Settings by picking System Settings and then Sleep Mode. Here you’ll be able to set the amount of time your device should sit inactive before it starts to conserve energy. And if you’re using your Switch to watch a lot of videos, you might want to check the Suspend Auto-Sleep While Playing Media Content option so that the screen doesn’t suddenly go dark in the middle of viewing.

Finally, remember that Nintendo built the Switch to be social. Select your profile picture (top left) from the main home screen, and you’ll be able to add specific friends and see suggestions the Switch has for you. You should also pay attention to the User Settings option—here you can set which friends can see which bits of your activity on the device, as well as configure what you’re sharing to your social media accounts.

The post What to do with your brand new console before you start gaming appeared first on Popular Science.

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The best PS4 games for kids in 2023 https://www.popsci.com/gear/best-ps4-games-for-kids/ Tue, 09 Aug 2022 15:00:00 +0000 https://www.popsci.com/?p=460760
Best PS4 Games for Kids
Mike Epstein

This roundup is rated E for Everyone.

The post The best PS4 games for kids in 2023 appeared first on Popular Science.

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Best PS4 Games for Kids
Mike Epstein

We may earn revenue from the products available on this page and participate in affiliate programs. Learn more ›

Best overall Best PS4 Games for Kids Rocket League
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Rocket League’s unique arcade-style spin on soccer is simultaneously competitive and friendly fun.

Best Adventure Best PS4 Games for Kids Sackboy: A Big Adventure
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Sackboy, the star of Sony’s creative LittleBigPlanet games finally gets to star in a game all his own.

Best for families Best PS4 Games for Kids Overcooked! All You Can Eat
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Frantic and exciting, Overcooked! All You Can Eat compiles two food-focused time attack games in a single compilation.

As more and more popular AAA PlayStation 4 games feature themes and content made for adults, it may take a little care to find games that feel right for kids. Just a little, though: From long-standing hits like Minecraft and Rocket League to funny adventures like LEGO Star Wars, there are tons of great, kid-friendly games for kids and families on PlayStation consoles. The best PS4 games for kids stand the test of time and are perfect for young PS4 and PS5 players alike.

How we picked the best PS4 games for kids

I’ve covered games and gaming hardware for many publications, including Popular Science, Popular Mechanics, and NBC Select. As an avid player and game designer, I’ve logged thousands of hours on titles ranging from big-budget blockbusters to the latest indie games on Nintendo Switch.

To pick the best PS4 games for kids, we leveraged our collective experience at PopSci, as well as reviews from professional critics. We considered how each title would sit with kids and parents, weighing elements like difficulty, accessibility, age rating, multiplayer options, and online content more heavily than usual. 

The best PS4 games for kids: Reviews & Recommendations

Our favorite PlayStation 4 games for kids encompass a range of genres and styles. All of them are critically acclaimed and stand head and shoulders above cheaper games you might find on a smartphone or tablet. We’ve included the official ESRB age rating, as well as the age range we think would get the most out of each title.

Best overall: Rocket League

Psyonix

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Buy it used or refurbished: eBay

Why it made the cut: Easy to play yet hard to master, Rocket League mixes sports and racing to create endlessly fun.

Specs

  • Number of players: Up to four (co-op)
  • ESRB rating: Everyone
  • Best for ages: 4-7
  • Playtime: N/A

Pros

  • Easy to understand rules and goals
  • Local and online multiplayer
  • Bite-sized matches

Cons

  • Special cars available via in-game purchases

Even after 7 years, there’s no game quite like Rocket League. The basic concept is simple: It’s 1-on-1, 2-on-2, or 3-on-3 soccer, but you control rocket-powered cars instead of people. Each player controls their own car, speeding around to bump a giant, floaty ball into their opponent’s goal.

Rocket League’s cars have a unique driving feel, in large part because you can make your car jump and even flip around in the air, opening the door for precise shooting and passing … if you can get the timing right. Rocket League is pick up and play, but mastering the game can take hours and hours of practice. Regardless of your skill level, though, it’s a lot of fun chasing down the ball, scoring goals, and making quick saves.

When the standard soccer game mode gets stale, there are a variety of alternate rules to keep things fresh. Kids and adults who play soccer or love cars will find something to enjoy in Rocket League. Best of all, you can download it for free through the PlayStation store.

Best adventure: Sackboy: A Big Adventure

Sony

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Buy it used or refurbished: eBay

Why it made the cut: Sackboy is a vibrant platformer in a bright, friendly toy-box world that’s fun solo or with a group.

Specs

  • Number of players: Up to four (co-op)
  • ESRB rating: Everyone
  • Best for ages: 4-7
  • Playtime: ~15 hours

Pros

  • Cute and creative world
  • Non-competitive multiplayer co-op
  • Joyful original and licensed music

Cons

  • Repetitive platforming challenges

Sackboy: A Big Adventure is a platforming adventure where you run, jump, and slide your way through dozens of amazingly creative and imaginative levels. With an arts-and-craftsy toybox aesthetic, evoking Sackboy’s origins in the game-creator series LittleBigPlanet, every inch of the game looks homespun and patched together. You’ll see characters spun from yarn, trees that look patched together, and obstacles that may be everyday objects like a large cardboard box. The end result is a toys-come-to-life world where creativity and imagination defeat the bad guys.

Sackboy can be played solo or with a group. We found its colorful levels, cartoonish villains, and pop music covers best enjoyed with a group on the couch.

Best for families: Overcooked! All You Can Eat

Team17

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Buy it used or refurbished: eBay

Why it made the cut: Chaotic multiplayer in increasingly hilarious settings makes this game the most fun you can have cooking virtual meals.

Specs

  • Number of players: Up to four (co-op)
  • ESRB rating: Everyone
  • Best for ages: 7-10
  • Playtime: ~45 hours

Pros

  • Fun and chaotic gameplay
  • Hundreds of creative levels
  • Local and online co-op

Cons

  • Can be repetitive

No game series gets a family cheering and shouting like Overcooked. Compiling both Overcooked games, All You Can Eat drops 2-4 players into the shoes of line cooks in some of the craziest kitchens you’ve ever seen, asking them to prepare food on top of moving trucks, in haunted castles, and other absurd scenarios. The “cooking” is very simple so it’s easy for even new players to pick up. Learning to communicate well and work fast, though … may be a challenge.

Best racing: Hot Wheels Unleashed

Milestone

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Buy it used or refurbished: eBay

Why it made the cut: Hot Wheels Unleashed captures the joy of toy cars with beautiful, accessible racing action.

Specs

  • Number of players: Up to two (co-op) 
  • ESRB rating: Everyone
  • Best for ages: 7-10
  • Playtime: ~18 hours

Pros

  • Fast and exciting racing
  • Easy controls
  • Robust track editor

Cons

  • In-game loot boxes

Hot Wheels Unleashed captures the spirit of playing with toy cars beautifully. Controlling the legendary toy cars, you race along the toy line’s familiar plastic tracks surrounded by giant living rooms, kitchens, and more. It’s an arcade-style racer, with plenty of larger-than-life speed boosts and loop-de-loop ramps. (Or are they smaller-than-life?)

You can play with the tracks, too, of course. An extremely detailed level editor gives you all the tools you need to make exciting new races. You could quickly lose hours building the race course of your dreams.

Best action: LEGO Star Wars: The Skywalker Saga

Warner Bros. Games

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Buy it used or refurbished: eBay

Why it made the cut: The biggest LEGO game ever tackles all three Star Wars trilogies with action and humor.

Specs

  • Number of players: Up to two (co-op)
  • ESRB rating: Everyone 10+
  • Best for ages: 10-12
  • Playtime: ~40 hours

Pros

  • Story encompasses nine different Star Wars films
  • Play as dozens of iconic characters
  • Cute and funny

Cons

  • Some co-op sections leave one player out

TT Games’ many Lego video games follow a simple, but effective formula: Take an iconic movie or TV property, and retell the plotline as a funny kids’ story using LEGO aesthetics and a healthy dose of slapstick. LEGO Star Wars: The Skywalker Saga perfects the formula, telling the stories from all nine of the core Star Wars films, from Episode I – The Phantom Menace to Episode IX – The Rise of Skywalker. Every level is immersive and action-packed, with lots of lightsaber and blaster fights, stealth sequences, puzzle-solving, and more.

Some of the story-focused cutscenes can fall a bit flat in co-op when one player controls an unnamed soldier, but these moments can’t spoil this funny, charming spin on one of pop culture’s most beloved stories.

Best survival: Minecraft

Microsoft

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Buy it used or refurbished: eBay

Why it made the cut: Minecraft is the best-selling game of all time for a reason. It’s endlessly creative and incredibly approachable for kids and adults alike.

Specs

  • Number of players: Up to four (co-op and online)
  • ESRB rating: Everyone 10+
  • Best for ages: 10-12
  • Playtime: ~85 hours

Pros

  • Endless variety in building and crafting
  • Immersive and accessible visuals
  • Play solo, co-op, or online

Cons

  • Lack of tutorials can be confusing

With over 200 million copies sold across over a dozen platforms, Minecraft is a pop culture phenomenon that kids still love. If you’ve never had the pleasure, Minecraft is a survival game where players explore a blocky, pixelated world and build all kinds of creations.

At first, Minecraft is mostly about defending yourself from hostile night-time creatures like skeletons and Creepers. But after a few hours, it opens up into the ultimate sandbox where you can build almost anything and explore a near-endless pastoral world filled with underground secrets to uncover.

Kids interested in real-life arts and crafts will find a lot to enjoy in Minecraft. Be aware that the game does have an online mode where you can play with friends and strangers.

Best story: Ratchet and Clank (2016)

Sony

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Why it made the cut: Ratchet & Clank is an interplanetary adventure full of memorable characters, beautiful visuals, and wacky action kids will love.

Specs

  • Number of players: One 
  • ESRB rating: Everyone 10+
  • Best for ages: 10-12
  • Playtime: ~13 hours

Pros

  • Beautiful graphics
  • Cinematic story
  • Wacky weapons

Cons

  • Short playtime

The PS4 chapter of a long-running action-platformer series, Ratchet & Clank (2016), is a beautified reboot of the series’ first chapter, which launched on the PlayStation 2 in 2002. Much of the action revolves around cartoonish gunplay, with Ratchet and Clank pulling out absurd lasers, missile launchers, and wacky weapons like the Groovitron, which make enemies dance instead of fight.

With a story and visual presentation that aspires to Pixar-level cinematic excellence, Ratchet & Clank pulls you in with beautiful visuals and funny writing only rivaled by its PS5-exclusive successor, Ratchet and Clank: A Rift Apart. Immersive environments, memorable characters, and funny dialogue make this one of the best ways to introduce kids to more story-focused games.

Best for older kids: Marvel’s Spider-Man (2018)

Sony

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Buy it used or refurbished: eBay

Why it made the cut: Swinging around New York City as Spider-Man is a joy like no other.

Specs

  • Number of players: One
  • ESRB rating: Teen
  • Best for ages: 13+
  • Playtime: ~35 hours

Pros

  • Swinging around NYC is incredible
  • Dramatic and well-told story
  • Beautiful graphics

Cons

  • Supervillain fights are more flash than substance

If LEGO Star Wars is like a Saturday morning cartoon, Marvel’s Spider-Man is akin to a marquee movie. In Sony’s version, Spider-Man is slightly older and wiser than his teenage onscreen counterpart, while Peter Parker has to deal with bigger responsibilities.

What sets Marvel’s Spider-Man apart from other versions of the story, or other comic book games, is how playing really makes you feel like Spider-Man. You can swing on webs all around Manhattan, stopping street crime and saving civilians. Technically, you can take the subway to immediately reach your destination, but Spidey’s gravity-defying, high-flying moves feel so good that you’ll probably opt for a scenic swing along Central Park.

Kids who love superheroes and action games will definitely enjoy Marvel’s Spider-Man. That said, it’s worth noting that this game is rated T for Teen and features some themes that may not be right for very young kids.

Best free: Fall Guys: Ultimate Knockout

Epic Games

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Why it made the cut: Fall Guys is one of the easiest games for kids to pick up and play, but stays exciting thanks to its winner-takes-all format.

Specs

  • Number of players: Up to four (online)
  • ESRB rating: Everyone
  • Best for ages: 4-7
  • Playtime: ~28 hours

Pros

  • Very easy to play and enjoy
  • Colorful characters and levels
  • Free to play

Cons

  • Lots of in-game purchases available

Fall Guys is a chaotic online party game where up to 100 pill-shaped characters compete in obstacle courses and minigames, whittling down the number of players until one is crowned champion.

In a bright, bouncy, and colorful world, you run, jump, and dive through pastel, candy-coated landscapes while racing to the finish line, or playing wacky takes on soccer, keep-away, and other games for large groups.

Fall Guys is a great option for kids who play with friends online rather than in-person. Only one person can play at home, but you can form an online group of up to four people to play with. It includes an option to voice chat but it’s turned off by default.
The game is free-to-play but includes a wide variety of in-game items that can be bought with real money. Be sure to set a spending limit on your PS4 through the console’s parental controls.

What to consider when shopping for the best PS4 games for kids

Shopping for video games as a parent is hard, especially if you aren’t an avid gamer yourself. Most coverage from dedicated games publications focuses on what’s coming next, so it may be difficult to look back and find great games that are even a few years old if they’re no longer top search results. When looking for games to play with kids, keep the following in mind:

What kinds of games does the kid like to play?

When picking a game to play with another person, you want to make sure you’re getting something that they’ll like. Pay attention to what games really grab their attention when they play and/or watch on platforms like YouTube and Twitch. Often, you’ll find patterns emerge, even if many of the games look completely different at a glance. For example, Fortnite and Among Us look wildly different but they are both competitive, multiplayer games that allow players to speak to each other online.

If nothing else, it never hurts to ask. In fact, picking a game with them may help both of you get more excited about playing together.

How to tell if a game is appropriate for your child

All games carry an age rating from the Entertainment Software Rating Board (ESRB), ranging from “Everyone (E)” to “Adults Only (AO).” The ESRB website features a database of every game it has rated, which includes the rating and some basic information about its content—such as whether it includes graphic violence or “sexual themes.” You can also find the ESRB rating and some basic info on the back cover of physical game boxes.

ESRB ratings are a good starting point but don’t give you the full picture. We recommend looking up any game meant for kids before purchasing. You can learn a lot more information about any game by reading reviews and checking parent-focused media sites like Common Sense Media

How many players does the game allow?

It’s one thing if you’re a solo gamer hunched in front of a great gaming TV or monitor. If you’re picking a game for a household with many gamers, however, you want to make sure and pick a game with “local” multiplayer, which means that multiple players can play together on a single console at once. Many multiplayer games only allow you to play with friends online, which isn’t ideal for a group of kids or a family sitting around one TV. That said, plenty of games let two, three, or four people play from the same console.

Also, keep in mind that some multiplayer games offer cooperative multiplayer modes, where you work together, and others focus on competitive multiplayer, where you work against other players. Many competitive multiplayer games also have cooperative elements, but it’s always a good idea to know exactly what you’re getting into.

Are there any online interactions?

Online games like Fortnite and Minecraft are very popular, but allow you to speak with strangers online. These interactions receive only the slightest bit of moderation, so it’s up to you to figure out whether or not your child is ready for it. You can find out whether a game offers the ability to chat with strangers on the product packaging and the product listing for the game on the PlayStation Store.

Are there additional in-game purchases?

Many games, particularly online multiplayer titles, allow you to purchase access to digital clothing and items for your character, as well as new content. We recommend talking to kids about digital storefronts before giving them access to a new game, as well as setting up parental controls for in-game purchases.

FAQs

Q: What PlayStation is good for kids?

The PlayStation 4 and PlayStation 5 are both great consoles for players of all ages. Both consoles have lots of great games for kids and adults. If you’re buying a new console, we recommend looking for a PS5, as it is the current active console and can play all but a handful of PS4 games, plus many exclusives. That said, with limited supply making PS5s hard to find, it may be easier and cost less to buy a PS4. Since many companies still release PS4 versions of their games, it still feels like an active console ecosystem.

Q: Does the PS4 have educational games?

We wouldn’t recommend the PS4 specifically for educational games. Many kids’ games on PS4 have educational elements, but games that help teach academic skills like reading and math are more common on computer and mobile devices.

Q: Are there any free games for kids on PS4?

There are many free games for kids on PS4, including Fortnite, Fall Guys, Rocket League, and more. These games are often called “free-to-play,” because you can download and play them without spending money, but they feature lots of in-game purchases, most of which revolve around new cosmetic options for your characters.

Q: What is the minimum safe age for a child to play PS4?

According to the American Academy of Pediatrics, children under the age of two should not engage in any screen time and kids between two and five should only look at a screen for up to one hour per day. Based on that recommendation, we’d recommend waiting until they’re at least age 5 to introduce them to games. In terms of content, there’s no hard and fast rule. There are many games made for young children, so you could theoretically start showing kids how to play games at a very young age.

Final thoughts on the best PS4 games for kids

The best PS4 games for kids are a mix of colorful adventure games, high-octane racing games, and story-focused action titles. Kids of all ages can find something to love on PS4. Adults with PS5s can also enjoy these titles, as all of them are available for both PS4 and PS5.

The post The best PS4 games for kids in 2023 appeared first on Popular Science.

Articles may contain affiliate links which enable us to share in the revenue of any purchases made.

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‘Fortnite’ owner agrees to $520 million FTC settlement in messy child privacy case https://www.popsci.com/technology/epic-games-fornite-520-million-ftc-settlement-child-privacy/ Tue, 20 Dec 2022 21:00:00 +0000 https://www.popsci.com/?p=500765
Gamer playing Fortnite on laptop using video game controller
Two separate fines add up to the a record-shattering sum for Epic Games. Tristan Fewings/Getty Images for Hamleys

Epic Games was also accused of engaging in 'dark pattern' in-app purchases schemes.

The post ‘Fortnite’ owner agrees to $520 million FTC settlement in messy child privacy case appeared first on Popular Science.

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Gamer playing Fortnite on laptop using video game controller
Two separate fines add up to the a record-shattering sum for Epic Games. Tristan Fewings/Getty Images for Hamleys

We may earn revenue from the products available on this page and participate in affiliate programs. Learn more ›

Epic Games has agreed to pay over $520 million as part of a multi-record-breaking settlement with the Federal Trade Commission. Per the FTC, the makers behind the massively popular video game, Fortnite, were originally accused of not only tricking players into making unintentional in-game payments, but also violating children’s privacy as defined within the Children’s Online Privacy Protection Act (COPPA). The new Epic Games’ settlement comes without an admission or denial of the FTC’s allegations. 

Although technically free to play, much of Fortnite’s profits stem from in-game purchases for digital perks like character dance moves, virtual concerts, and costumes. The FTC alleges that Epic Games relied on a marketing strategy known as “dark patterns,” which The Wall Street Journal described on Monday as “tactics that trap customers into paying for goods and services and create obstacles to canceling.”

[Related: A parent’s guide to playing Fortnite with your kids.]

Additionally, the FTC argued that Epic Games routinely collected the personal data of children under 13-years-old without their parents’ consent or knowledge through Fortnite, which counts as many as 400 million users globally. According to the esports betting platform, Thunderpick, over a quarter of the game’s players are estimated to reside in the US. Fortnite’s previous live-by-default setting for in-game audio and text chatting is said to have also adversely affected teens and children, who could be subject to harassment, bullying, or predatory behavior.

Epic Games will pay a $275 million penalty over accusations of violating COPPA stipulations, the largest ever fine for an FTC rule violation, alongside $245 million in customer refunds over accusations of its dark pattern strategies—itself the largest refund in a gaming case. As part of the settlement, Epic agreed to what the FTC calls its largest ever administrative order to change a company’s consumer policy. Epic Games adopted strict new default privacy guidelines for children and teens in September 2022, which turned off voice and text communications unless manually changed in Fortnite’s settings. Any previous user data collected by Epic in violation of COPPA regulations must be deleted, unless parents explicitly express consent otherwise.

[Related: Social media scammers made off with $770 million last year.]

According to the FTC’s announcement, employees expressed concern internally regarding Epic Games’ lax safeguards for some of its youngest players as far back as 2017. When the company finally got around to introducing a button disabling voice chat, however, the complaint alleges it was made intentionally difficult to locate.

Correction on December 12, 2022: This article has been updated to reflect Epic Games began defaulting to the highest privacy option for players under the age of 18 in September 2022, not as a direct result of the FTC settlement.

The post ‘Fortnite’ owner agrees to $520 million FTC settlement in messy child privacy case appeared first on Popular Science.

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The best cheap gaming laptops of 2023 https://www.popsci.com/reviews/best-cheap-gaming-laptops/ Mon, 29 Nov 2021 18:10:00 +0000 https://www.popsci.com/?p=404141
Best Cheap Gaming Laptops

Getting a great cheap gaming laptop you'll love takes work. We'll help you find the right one for you for less than $1,000.

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Best Cheap Gaming Laptops

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Best overall Best cheap gaming laptops ASUS TUF Gaming F17 (2021)
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The ASUS TUF Gaming F17 (2021) balances great gaming specs and a reasonable price.

Best for battery life Acer Nitro 5 is our pick for best cheap gaming laptop. Acer Nitro 5
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With a 10-hour battery, the 2020 model of the Acer Nitro 5 can carry you through an entire workday and beyond.

Best for streaming Lenovo is our pick for best cheap gaming laptop. Lenovo Legion 5 15
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The Lenovo Legion 5 15 is an unassuming powerhouse equally prepared for gaming, streaming, and editing 1080p videos.

Gaming on the go has a unique appeal, especially if you’re a student or a gamer who travels a lot for work. This year, gaming laptops got a shot in the arm with brand new graphics cards from Nvidia and AMD, bringing them closer than ever to desktop levels of gaming performance. The most powerful machines come with hefty price tags, but you don’t have to break the bank to enjoy portable PC gaming. Whether you’re a competitive player looking for the best FPS you can afford, a mobile content creator looking for a cost-efficient work machine, or just a student looking to play a few games between classes, we’ve rounded up a list of the best cheap gaming laptops to help you get your game on for less.

How we selected the best cheap gaming laptops 

As a longtime technology critic specializing in gaming PCs and PC components, I’ve had the rare opportunity to test-drive many, many gaming PCs and have become intimately familiar with what components matter most. I’ve tested everything from high-end machines costing thousands of dollars to budget-conscious laptops that could stealthily fit right in to an average office or school setting. For this round-up, I’ve researched dozens of models that are available for purchase now at major retailers, looking closely at their key components, screens, and synergies that might exist between them. In cases where it looked like there might have been a tie, I turned to reports from real customers to get a sense of which laptops have left their users satisfied.

The best cheap gaming laptops: Reviews & Recommendations

Every laptop on this list costs less than $1,000. In that price range, every option has strengths and a couple of notable weaknesses. For this round-up, we’ve broken the choices out into several popular categories, including a Best All-Around Cheap Gaming Laptop, featuring options that emphasize battery life, refresh rate, and other factors. Choosing what features mean the most to you should help guide you to the right choice.

Best overall: ASUS TUF Gaming F17 (2021)

Why it made the cut: The ASUS TUF Gaming (2021) balances great gaming specs with a reasonable price.

Specs

  • Display: 17.3-inch, 1080p, 144Hz
  • CPU: Intel Core i5-11260H
  • GPU: Nvidia GeForce RTX 3050 Ti
  • Memory: 8GB
  • Storage: 512GB 
  • Price: $829.97
ProsCons
Fast, 6-core processor Somewhat expensive, given the specs
Powerful mid-range GPU Heavy
Large, high refresh rate screen

Given its sub-$1,000 price, the ASUS TUF Gaming (2021) is the best cheap gaming laptop for most people. It features an 11th generation Intel Core i5 processor with 6 cores and 12 threads. While a core is the most important aspect of the CPU, acting as its own little processing unit, threads can be thought of as virtual cores: not quite as good as the real thing but an improvement over cores alone. The max turbo speed of its processor peaks at 4.4GHz, which is great for gaming performance. This CPU is powerful enough to open the door to streaming and content creation, making it a good fit for budding creators.

Even more importantly, it has an Nvidia RTX 3050 Ti graphics card, which can handle running most games in 1080p at moderate settings. Having a modern GPU also allows gamers to take advantage of cutting-edge features like ray tracing, which simulates natural lighting, and Deep Learning Super Sampling, which can take a lower resolution image and upscale it with the power of AI to improve FPS on any PC. 

The screen is another high point. It’s big and bold at 17.3 inches, but the real standout feature is its refresh rate. Clocking in at 144Hz, it’s able to provide ultra-smooth gameplay at high frame rates.

All of this performance leaves the price relatively high, at least among our picks, but the Asus Tuf Gaming F17 frequently goes on sale, so you may be able to grab it on sale, getting a genuinely strong gaming laptop at a very low price.

Best for eSports: ASUS TUF Gaming F17 (2020)

Why it made the cut: Last year’s F17 isn’t as powerful as our top pick but it’s cheaper, has the same display, and good-for-the-price components make it a good choice for esports fans.

Specs

  • Display: 17.3-inch, 1080p, 144Hz
  • CPU: Intel Core i5-10300H
  • GPU: Nvidia GeForce GTX 1650 Ti
  • Memory: 8GB
  • Storage: 512GB 
  • Price: $830.90
ProsCons
An esports-worthy refresh rate Not as cutting edge as the 2021 model
Reliably affordable  Heavy
Solid components to run eSports at high framerate

Last year’s ASUS TUF Gaming F17 brings many of the same highlights as this year’s version: a big 17-inch screen with a rapid 144Hz refresh rate, a customizable RGB keyboard, a fast CPU, and 8GB of DRAM. The components aren’t quite as cutting edge as the 2021 version, but it’s the best cheap gaming laptop for esports. 

The highlight here remains that fast 17.3-inch screen. Picking out enemies won’t be as difficult due to the larger screen size. The rapid refresh rate will reduce motion blur for better flick shots and decrease input lag so your shots will feel just as instantaneous as they should. 

Stepping back to this version does mean a scaled-back CPU and GPU. The 2020 version of the F17 features a quad-core 10th generation processor instead of Intel’s newer hexacores, so streaming may be more difficult. It also features an Nvidia GeForce GTX 1650 graphics card, which means you won’t have access to ray tracing and DLSS. Still, it has the horsepower to deliver the high frame rates for most esports, which is generally the priority for competitive players.

Best for streaming: Lenovo Legion 5 15 

Why it made the cut: The Lenovo Legion 5 15 is an unassuming powerhouse equally prepared for gaming, streaming, and editing 1080p videos.

Specs

  • Display: 15.6-inch, 1080p
  • CPU: AMD Ryzen 7 5800H
  • GPU: Nvidia GeForce RTX 3050 Ti
  • Memory: 16GB
  • Storage: 1TB
  • $1,161
ProsCons
8-core/16-thread CPU Relatively expensive
Fast, ray tracing ready GPU All-plastic body
16GB of DDR4 memory
Extra SSD slot for memory expansion

The Lenovo Legion 5 15 pushes the boundaries of what we consider a “cheap” gaming laptop, but it’s definitely still very affordable for what it offers, given the components inside. Inside this small, 5.29 lb body lies a cutting-edge AMD Ryzen 7 5800H processor. The processor features 8 cores, the highest core count of this round-up, and 16 threads, making it a worthy contender for the best cheap gaming laptop for streaming and content creation.

The highlights don’t end there. Lenovo has paired that CPU with an Nvidia GeForce RTX 3050 Ti GPU and 16GB of fast DDR4 memory, so you can game with perks like ray tracing and DLSS while also keeping a tab open to mind your stream chat. When you’re done, this combination will translate seamlessly into video editors like Adobe Premiere Pro. 

Best for battery life: Acer Nitro 5

Why it made the cut: With a 10-hour battery, this model of the Acer Nitro 5 can carry you through an entire workday and beyond.

Specs

  • Display: 15.6-inch, 1080p
  • CPU: AMD Ryzen 5 4600H
  • GPU: Nvidia GeForce 1650
  • Memory: 8GB
  • Storage: 256GB
  • Price: $789
ProsCons
6-core/12-thread processor Poor screen brightness
Extended battery life  Low storage and memory
Thin bezels maximize screen real estate

The Acer Nitro 5 is the best cheap gaming laptop for long battery life that can get you through an entire day of work or school. It can run for 10 hours when using the laptop’s power-saving modes and medium screen brightness, much longer than you can generally expect of an affordable gaming laptop. You’ll still want to plug in when loading up your favorite game, but for mixed-use? It’s a winner.

That battery life comes at a cost, though. The older GeForce GTX 1650 graphics card doesn’t offer great frame rates in modern games without playing on low or medium settings. The storage and memory on its most affordable configurations are both low, as well. Acer offers upgrades to both, but the higher price may not seem quite so affordable. According to Laptop, the screen also isn’t as bright as the competition, peaking at only 255 nits. If you’re looking for a good all-day laptop that’s also good for gaming, though, this is a great choice.

Best for work: Lenovo IdeaPad Gaming 3

Why it made the cut: The subdued design of the Lenovo IdeaPad Gaming 3 makes it the perfect gaming laptop to bring to work.

Specs

  • Display: 15.6-inch, FHD, 120Hz
  • CPU: AMD Ryzen 5 5600H
  • GPU: Nvidia GeForce GTX 1650
  • Memory: 8GB
  • Storage: 512GB
ProsCons
20Hz, 1080p screen Underpowered GPU
Great processor Middling screen brightness
Chassis design won’t betray it’s made for gaming

Gaming laptops don’t have to have flashy RGB and attention-grabbing designs. The Lenovo IdeaPad Gaming 3 is equally at home in a boardroom as a gaming den. Unlike many gaming laptops, its thin, light aluminum body doesn’t make a scene with a bold (or gaudy) design, making it the best cheap gaming laptop for work and school.

Under the hood, it features an impressive 6-core, 12-thread Ryzen 5 5600H processor, so you can multitask with ease. The screen also runs at an impressive 120Hz, which isn’t quite as smooth as the 144Hz on our top pick but still offers a very smooth gaming experience. 

The trade-off comes with the underpowered GeForce GTX 1650 GPU, which will likely need to run modern AAA games at low-mid settings. This is a common issue among our picks and a general drawback to getting a cheap gaming laptop. That said, you’re still going to be able to play many more games than you would using a laptop with integrated graphics.

Best under $1,000: MSI GF63 Thin

Why it made the cut: The MSI GF63 Thin is a dedicated gaming rig that runs games as well as possible with very limited hardware capabilities.

Specs

  • Display: 15.6-inch, 1080p
  • CPU: Intel Core i5-10300H
  • GPU: Nvidia GeForce GTX 1650
  • Memory: 8GB
  • Storage: 256GB
  • Price: $539
ProsCons
Affordable Underpowered graphics card 
Dedicated GPU Only a quad-core processor
Thin and light for easy portability

When cost matters most, the MSI GF63 Thin comes to the rescue. Coming in at only $539, it’s one of the best cheap gaming laptops under $1,000. with components that are only one generation old. It features a dedicated GeForce GTX 1650 GPU and a quad-core Intel Core i5 10300H processor. That won’t be enough to play the latest games at high settings, but will still outperform laptops relying on integrated graphics and will look good doing it.

Apart from price, the GF63 Thin also manages to be one of the most portable laptops in this round-up. Weighing only 4.1 pounds and measuring 0.85 inches (22mm) thin, it’s easily able to slide into most backpacks and won’t leave your back aching at the end of the day.

Of course, you can’t expect top-tier performance or storage at this price. With a 256GB hard drive, you’ll only be able to store a handful of games before needing to delete something to make room for the next. The 10th generation processor is no slouch for gaming, but won’t do much for streaming. While it may not be able to do everything, the GF63 delivers a lot more than you could reasonably expect out of a laptop at this price.

Things to consider before buying the best cheap gaming laptops

Buying a cheap gaming laptop can be a marketing minefield. More often than not, the product pages are littered with lofty promises that don’t line up with how your new laptop will actually perform when you boot up a game. It’s not as if those numbers are made up, though: There is useful information out there if you know how to find it.

Processor

There are two major players making computer processors (CPUs) for laptops: AMD and Intel. Each brand breaks its CPUs into different performance tiers. For Intel gaming laptops, the most common are Core i3, Core i5, Core i7, and Core i9. The higher the number, the higher the performance. For AMD’s most recent CPUs, those tiers are represented as Ryzen 3, Ryzen 5, Ryzen 7, and Ryzen 9 processors. In both cases, for gaming, we recommend sticking to Intel Core i5 and Ryzen 5 CPUs and above.

When looking for a gaming CPU, the first thing to consider is how many cores you’ll need. For just gaming, we recommend at least a quad-core CPU. If you plan to stream, stretching your budget to six or eight cores will help ensure that both your stream and your gameplay remain smooth. While Ryzen 3000 and 5000 series processors are highly competitive with Intel’s Core CPUs, if you’re considering a machine that’s more than two generations old, Intel’s CPUs tend to offer better gaming performance.

The second thing to consider is how fast that CPU runs. A processor’s speed, measured in Gigahertz (GHz), refers to how many compute cycles it completes per second. A 5GHz processor is capable of completing five billion cycles a second, though this is also impacted by the task it’s attempting to complete and the adjoining hardware. Most games benefit from faster clock speeds, so a faster processor can lead to higher frame rates. For gaming, choose a processor that’s as close to 5GHz (or higher) as possible but, generally, anything over 4GHz is considered “fast enough” for gaming on modern CPUs. Newer processors often feature design improvements that also lead to higher frame rates. As a rule, settle on the number of cores you need, then look for the newest, fastest CPU that fits your budget.

Graphics card

For gaming, specifically, a laptop’s ability to render 3D graphics is even more important than its core processor. This is controlled by a component called a graphics card or GPU. Depending on the type of machine, your PC may have a discrete standalone component or a chipset built directly into the CPU (an integrated graphics card). Having a large, discrete GPU is the defining feature of a gaming PC, versus a powerful productivity-focused machine. In general, it’s always worth investing in the best GPU you can afford.

Like processors, graphics cards are primarily produced by two brands, AMD and Nvidia, and are broken into different performance tiers indicated by number. AMD names its Radeon line of GPUs with a four-digit number. The first digit corresponds to the generation of the card and the last three mark the specific card and its position in the line. For example, the latest set of laptop cards are the RX 6600M, 6700M, and 6800M. Nvidia’s naming convention is similar. The first two digits indicate the generation and the last two represent the individual card, i.e., RTX 3050, 3060, 3070, and 3080. Nvidia also includes middle steps between some levels, indicated by “Ti.”

Because heat can impact gaming performance, it can be difficult to tell the difference between two similarly priced laptops by name alone. It’s always worth reading reviews before hitting that Add to Cart button. 

Memory

Memory (or DRAM) is another critical component in a gaming laptop. Memory is where the laptop will store the data it needs the fastest access to and is directly tied to gaming performance. For gaming and streaming, we recommend having at least 16GB of RAM with 8GB being the bare minimum for gaming alone. Anything less will severely limit your ability to multitask or have other apps open alongside your game.

When producing a cheap gaming laptop, manufacturers tend to cut costs by providing less memory. As a result, most of the laptops in this round-up (and under $1,000 in general) will only have 8GB of RAM. Thankfully, many laptops allow you to add additional RAM sticks to increase total capacity over time. Upgradable memory isn’t a given, though, so check to make sure that’s a possibility before you buy in.

Screen

While there’s less variety than full-size desktop monitors, not all laptop displays are created equal. When scrutinizing a laptop display, consider its screen size and refresh rate. Full-size laptops typically come with 15.6- or 17.3-inch screens. A 17-inch screen is great for gaming but makes the laptop heavier and more difficult to carry around. Smaller screen sizes are available and enhance portability but quickly begin limiting your field of view. To maintain portability, a 15-inch screen is usually the safer bet.

Gaming laptops offer an incredible range of frame rates, from 60Hz all the way to 300Hz. Higher refresh rates allow games to run more smoothly and increase motion clarity but drain the battery more quickly. The fastest refresh rates can also be prohibitively expensive. For gaming, we recommend looking for a laptop that runs between 120Hz and 144Hz. This speed represents a good balance between price and performance and is noticeably smoother than a standard 60Hz monitor.  

Battery

The lifespan of the battery is an important consideration for any notebook but is especially so for a gaming laptop. High-performance parts use a lot of power and some manufacturers even limit performance when running on battery alone, so it’s always advisable to plug in before you load up your favorite game. That’s not always possible, however, so we suggest scouting out a laptop that offers a minimum of 50wHr. Even so, some laptops will struggle to last more than an hour while gaming, so keep that AC adapter handy. 

Connectivity

Do you like to plug in extra peripherals? Maybe a monitor or an external hard drive? If so, you should check how many USB, video, and audio ports each laptop offers and compare that to what you would like to connect. The ports on laptops vary widely from model to model and, while gaming laptops tend to have more, they aren’t all the same.

Weight

A laptop is made to be portable, but not every laptop is meant to travel with you everywhere you go. Many modern laptops have embraced the mantra of “thin and light,” but gaming laptops still tend to be on the heavier side. This is especially true as you look for higher performance or shop older designs.

If you are looking for a gaming laptop that you carry to work or school every day, finding something low-weight should be a top priority. A 6-pound laptop might not seem like much on paper, but when carried in a bag over a full day, it can become a pain in the neck. Literally. Take the time to find a laptop that balances performance and portability. Your future self will thank you.

FAQs

Q: Is an Intel Core i5 processor good for gaming?

Intel’s Core i5 processors have long been regarded as good choices for gamers on a budget. Since Intel’s 8th generation of laptop processors, Core i5 CPUs have featured at least four cores and eight threads of performance which is perfectly sufficient for gaming. While older generations (such as the 8th generation and earlier) may show their age in frame rate compared to newer CPUs, Intel Core i5 processors are a great choice for gaming PC buyers looking at less expensive machines.

Q: Is 8GB RAM enough for gaming?

If you only need memory specifically for playing games, 8GB of RAM should be sufficient at the settings most cheap gaming laptops can handle. Most budget laptops, including many in this list, only ship with 8GB to keep costs down but often (not always) feature replaceable memory so you can upgrade your memory capacity over time. That may be necessary if you plan to multitask, stream to Twitch or YouTube, or push the envelope with graphics settings. Once your memory becomes full, you may experience slowdowns, stutters, or even crashing.

This may not be the case for much longer, though. The Xbox Series X and PlayStation 5 feature 16GB of RAM. It’s a safe bet that this will be the target for game developers going forward. A laptop with 8GB may not be run to the latest and greatest games in 2-3 years. If you want your laptop to last, you will likely want to spend a little extra and upgrade to 16GB of RAM. Short of that, take the time to consider whether it can be upgraded over time should this prove too limited.

Q: Does RAM affect lag?

RAM has a direct impact on gaming performance. It will not impact network lag in online games, but can absolutely limit or reduce the FPS your laptop is able to achieve. If there is too little RAM installed in your system, it will quickly become full and cause the game to stutter or even crash. RAM speed can also impact gaming performance but isn’t likely to cause the same stuttering behavior. Instead, upgrading to faster RAM can increase your maximum frame rate. 

Final thoughts on the best cheap gaming laptops

Choosing a cheap gaming laptop can feel like a balancing act. There are no perfect options at these prices and you need to accept that you will be getting a laptop with at least a couple of serious flaws. When you go to buy a cheap gaming laptop, keep your top priorities in mind and think through how you actually plan to use it. This should drive your decision-making, allowing you to make the hard choices about the trade-offs you have to make. For most people, focusing on getting the best graphics card and processor you can afford should yield the best overall gaming performance.

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The best monitors for streaming in 2023 https://www.popsci.com/gear/best-monitors-for-streaming/ Sat, 25 Jun 2022 17:00:00 +0000 https://www.popsci.com/?p=450956
The best monitors for streaming
Stan Horaczek

Whether it is for YouTube, Twitch, or just hanging with your buddies on Discord, we’ve got the monitors for your content.

The post The best monitors for streaming in 2023 appeared first on Popular Science.

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The best monitors for streaming
Stan Horaczek

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Best Overall Samsung Odyssey G7 is the best streaming monitor overall. Samsung Odyssey G7
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Get that big-screen feel without sacrificing the critical 16:9 aspect ratio.

Best for Twitch ASUS ROG Swift PG259QN is the best monitor for streaming for twitch. ASUS ROG Swift PG259QN
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Highly recommended due to its hardcore refresh rate, response time, and Twitch-compatible aspect ratio.

Best for Gaming BenQ ZOWIE XL2546K is the best monitor for streaming and gaming. BenQ ZOWIE XL2546K
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Retaining a lot of the power of the previous model, it comes in an upgraded package with even more FPS-playing potential.

With more and more people livestreaming content, you aren’t alone if you are wondering if there are some monitors for streaming out there that perform better than average for creators and consumers of everything from unboxings to speed runs. Monitors are rarely seen when watching someone online, yet they are so vital for the whole streaming experience. For that reason, we’ve put together this round-up of the best monitors for streaming so you won’t have to hope to catch a faint reflection of them in glasses’ frames. 

Thanks to the best webcams for streaming, we’ve all gotten a good look at the headsets and other accessories inside of our favorite streamer’s rooms. Some of the more observant of you might even have a solid idea of the best streaming devices and best mics for streaming already available. Well, read on and the best monitors to finish your setup will no longer be a mystery. 

How we selected the best monitors for streaming

Streaming is an incredibly diverse field. In just a few hours of watching streamers you’re likely to see a huge assortment of content: From Maya in the great, bright outdoors working with wildlife to MoonMoon cursing at Mario in a dark room … from a woodblock printmaker showing detailed shots of his knife work to intensive screen transitions from the two-time himself, DrDisrespect, creators have different needs and uses for monitors.

The result is that it is difficult to select a monitor that is the very best for all streamers. Instead, we looked at monitors that are good for categories like gaming, sitting down and working for long hours, and also a few specialty monitors, like those that work well on the go. We also made sure to consider the current monitors of top streamers and the monitors we predicted they’d buy if they were to buy a new one right now. Combining personal experience, research on high-profile personalities, critical consensus, and user impressions, we narrowed down our list.

Best monitors for streaming: Reviews & Recommendations

Generally speaking, the best monitors for streaming are the best monitors for gaming that have a useful aspect ratio. They also tend to be monitors that keep your head and neck comfortable after many hours of streaming … gotta grind out those ranks, after all. We’ve also included an IRL streaming pick, for streaming on the go, due to the massive surge in popularity of that category. Many of them have already been top-streamer tested or belong to product lines used by your favorite eCelebrities. These are our best monitors for streaming.

Best overall: Samsung Odyssey G7

Samsung

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Why it made the cut: This is one of the best monitors around, with a possible 240Hz refresh rate and that big-screen feel while keeping the preferred 16:9 ratio.

Specs

  • Aspect ratio: 16:9
  • Refresh rate: Up to 240Hz
  • Response time: 1ms

Pros

  • Competitive response time
  • Elegantly curved display
  • Low eye strain

Cons

  • Expensive

The Samsung Odyssey G7 is a monitor that provides for consistently comfortable gaming and streaming experience. With a 31.5-inch curved screen utilizing WQHD level resolution, you get that big-screen feel without sacrificing the critical 16:9 aspect ratio.

If you’re into grinding out the hours in your streamer chair, you’ll be happy to know that it also ranks as a top monitor for reduced eye strain. This is largely in part due to the max refresh rate of 240Hz and the quick 1ms response time all displayed on a comfortably curved screen. What’s even better for the streamer is the fact that these factors also contribute to getting the best KDA in the squad.

When it comes time to complain about this monitor, it can be difficult. However, there is one spec we just don’t like so much about this monitor: the price. While it outclasses the competition in so many ways, we just wish that this wasn’t one of them.

Best for Twitch: ASUS ROG Swift PG259QN

ASUS

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Why it made the cut: It has a top-of-the-line refresh rate and response time with about as much eye care as you can pack into a premium gaming monitor, all while maintaining that key 16:9 aspect ratio.

Specs

  • Aspect ratio: 16:9
  • Refresh rate: 360Hz
  • Response time: 1ms

Pros

  • Impressively high max refresh rate
  • TUV-certified flicker-free and low blue light tech
  • Good connectivity (HDMI 2.0, DisplayPort, USB)

Cons

  • Included stand quite large

The ASUS ROG Swift comes highly recommended for any Twitch streamer looking to make it big in FPS or battle royale games due to its hardcore refresh rate, response time, and Twitch-compatible aspect ratio. It even has great maneuverability for neck comfort and TUV Eye Comfort Certification for those 14+ hour weekend stream marathons. Anyone familiar with the streaming powerhouse XQC will find themselves drawn to this ASUS due to his time with its predecessor, the ASUS ROG Swift 258Q.

Aside from long hours of use, you’ll also find that the ASUS ROG Swift has great connectivity options, with USB and HDMI 2.0 alongside the somewhat better DisplayPort for the best possible frame rate.

The main irritation with this monitor is that the included stand is quite expansive. While it is sturdy and doesn’t shake easily, the stand is just about as wide as the monitor itself and has some depth to it, too. Consider using a wall mount to conserve desk space.

Best for gaming: BenQ ZOWIE XL2546K

BenQ

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Why it made the cut: This monitor is used by some of the best gaming streamers in the world and has the specs needed to be a top FPS player.

Specs

  • Aspect ratio: 16:9
  • Refresh rate: 240Hz
  • Response time: 1 ms 

Pros

  • Dynamic Accuracy Plus tech for low blur
  • Smaller stand base than predecessor
  • Intensive response time
  • FPS Pro-Grade refresh rate

Cons

  • Duller colors than predecessor

Used by YouTube’s favorite medical unprofessional, DrDisrespect, the BenQ ZOWIE XL2546K is an overall upgrade to the very popular BenQ ZOWIE XL2540. While retaining a lot of the power of the previous model, it comes in an upgraded package with even more FPS-playing potential.

The Dynamic Accuracy Plus (DyAc⁺) used by BenQ nearly eliminates motion blur. Where the typical LCD monitor will have an intermediary softer color between a flash white and a return to black, the BenQ ZOWIE XL2546K will skip this to produce a crisp transition between colors. When coupled with a 1ms response time, this tech can give you the edge you deserve when you need to get precise headshots and track CS:GO recoil patterns down to the pixel.

We like how it compares to the previous model overall. Not only is the response time better, but it also has a much smaller base at approximately 20% smaller. We weren’t as impressed with the vividness of the colors, which appeared somewhat dull. There’s no other way to put it, though, this monitor will take the top 20% of FPS players to the next level of gaming.

Best for livestreaming IRL: ASUS ZenScreen MB166C

ASUS

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Why it made the cut: The ASUS ZenScreen is a portable USB monitor with all of the features, including the ability to be tripod mounted, certain to make your next IRL stream a hit.

Specs

  • Aspect ratio: 16:9
  • Weight: 1.72 lbs.
  • Size: 15.6” screen, 8.9″ x 14.2″ x 0.5″ total

Pros

  • Tripod mountable for any terrain
  • Very portable
  • TUV-certified flicker-free and low blue light tech
  • Single cord for power/connectivity

Cons

  • USB only
  • Not intended to work with phone

If you are an on-the-go IRL streamer that wants to set up a stream station just about anywhere, we would strongly encourage you to consider the ASUS ZenScreenMB166C. A tripod-mountable portable monitor for your laptop has the potential to spruce up live events and outdoor festivities. Popping one of our best cheap webcams on top can give convention attendees a fun way to wave and say “Hi” to your audience as well. The whole experience is enough to have you asking, “How much data does streaming live TV use?

Not everything that comes with a tripod attachment is easily portable by default. Heavy, bulky objects are a pain to take with you. So will ease of movement be an issue with a ZenScreen? The verdict is “not likely.” At less than 2 pounds and under 0.5 inch in thickness, you can probably keep it in your laptop case so it will always be ready to go. The included protective sleeve will keep it from getting any scratches barring the most extreme of collisions.

You’ll also be happy to know that you won’t have to carry a million accessories to keep this monitor functional. A single USB cord will simultaneously cover the connection to your laptop and powering up the monitor. Unfortunately, that USB connection is the only connection possible. Overall, though, this monitor works incredibly well for its small size.

Best budget: Acer SB220Q

Acer

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Why it made the cut: This is a reliable Acer with a price that is nearly impossible to beat, made perfect for chill “Hearthstone” card slinging or grinding TFT ranks.

Specs

  • Aspect ratio: 16:9
  • Refresh rate: 75Hz
  • Response time: 4ms

Pros

  • Great refresh rate for the cost
  • Good enough response time for average gamers
  • Image quality for everyday gaming

Cons

  • No VESA mounting

For many streamers, especially those starting out or who want to focus on slower-paced games, getting a super-advanced monitor isn’t a great choice. A quality affordable monitor, like Acer’s SB220Q makes a lot more sense.

Looking at the raw stats, you see a monitor that pushes way above its paygrade. The monitor has a surprisingly high refresh rate of 75Hz in a tier where you’d usually expect 60Hz. For all but the very top players, the 4ms response time of this humble Acer won’t be any different than the 1ms response times sported by some monitors over four times this one’s cost. Additionally, not all games are so twitchy and reaction-based. A Top 100 “Hearthstone Battlegrounds” player is going to do just as well on this as they will anything else.

Really, the only thing we don’t like about it is that you can’t use your own mount with it as it doesn’t have VESA holes. The mount it comes with is okay, but losing the potential for options is always a bummer.

Things to consider before buying monitors for streaming

The No. 1 thing to consider is what kind of streamer you want to be. There is always some extra that might fit your particular niche the best. Be creative and work with your audience. Despite how much they enjoy OMEGALUL’ing your every failure, they really do care about your gaming experience, stream quality, and overall well-being. Well, at least, sorta.

Aside from niche favorites, there are some key things that pop up more frequently than others, including screen resolution, response time, and screen flicker. Aspect ratio, in particular, plays a unique role in livestreamed video gaming that you just might not expect.

Aspect ratio

For most streamers, the best aspect ratio for a monitor will be 16:9. The details of why that is the case are a bit lengthy, but worth learning if you want to stream.

Understanding what aspect ratio is and how it affects your streaming experience can be a bit tricky. Aspect ratio falls into a similar category as resolution, as it is a ratio of pixels. Where it diverges from resolution, however, is that it directly describes the rectangular shape of your screen.

The aspect ratio of your monitor can give you a good idea about how it will look. A 2:1 aspect ratio monitor could be 2 feet across and 1 foot up OR 6 feet across and 3 feet up. The vertical-to-horizontal ratio stays the same.

Stream hosting sites have standard viewing windows that can adjust to different viewers’ browser window sizes. Twitch and YouTube both default to 16:9 for this. Try changing your browser window size while watching a stream and see the display automatically adjust. The website automatically adjusts the image size to fit your window based on the aspect ratio selected.

How does this translate to the streaming experience? When aspect ratios don’t match, stream hosting services have to squeeze everything into a smaller space, shrinking the visible area. This can also happen even if you adjust the aspect ratio of your stream away from the 16:9 default if your viewers don’t have equivalent monitors to match.

To get around this, ultrawide streamers have to play games windowed, use specialized software, or find some other way around the issue. The result is a friction between what the viewer and streamer see on the screen, which is undesirable for all. Again, it is best to keep to a 16:9 ratio for a streaming monitor, or keep as close to it as possible.

Refresh rate

Refresh rate is going to be something that affects you, the streamer, directly more than it does the audience. While lower refresh rates can contribute to eye fatigue, which possibly lowers stream length, the biggest deal will be when you’re trying to edge out those headshots in FPS games or avoiding getting ganked in your MOBA of choice.

Refresh rates are measured in Hertz, or Hz, and reflect the number of times per second that a monitor’s image refreshes. The higher, the better, these typically start at around 60 Hz and start to level off around 144Hz, but there are those that go beyond.

For slow, tactical games like “Sid Meier’s Civilization” or casual “Hearthstone BG” runs, this won’t be a huge factor for you. However, when you’re in a 3-on-1 situation in the last minutes of a battle royale, it could make all of the difference in the world.

Response time

Another metric of screen changes, response time tells us how fast it takes a pixel on the monitor to go from one color to another. Measured in milliseconds, the testing usually covers the time to change from white to black or one shade of gray to another.

Much like refresh rate, above, this can make a lot of difference to your performance while playing fast games, especially FPS games. Additionally, it is another factor in the trailing white line behind your rapidly moving white cursor on dark-mode’d websites.

You should strive for a response time around 5 milliseconds or less, but a little bit over won’t affect the average individual too much. To put it into perspective, a blink takes about 150 milliseconds, so an extra millisecond or two in your monitor’s response time isn’t going to make a huge difference unless you’re in the top few percent of players in your game.

FAQs

Q: How much does a monitor for streaming cost?

A monitor for streaming can cost anywhere from just over $100 to well over $500. When budgeting for a monitor for streaming, you should consider at what level your streaming will be done at. While it is tempting to imagine yourself shooting up into the ranks of streamer stardom, the average streamer on Twitch will never clear 100 viewers.

Q: Can I stream with only one monitor?

You can stream with only one monitor, but it is advisable to use two. Typically, you’ll want to have your main monitor full-screened with the game you’re playing and use a second monitor to keep an eye on the chat. This gives you a chance to keep up with the conversation, actively ban bad actors before the chat gets derailed, and provide a better sense of community to keep viewers coming back.

Q: Do monitors affect streaming?

Yes, monitors affect streaming. For one, the aspect ratio you use affects how viewers see what you’re streaming. That’s why we recommend a standard 16:9 aspect ratio. Next, a monitor can also affect your performance as a gamer or monitor user. High-quality monitors can take top-tier gamers to the next levels in reaction-intensive genres, like FPS. Low-quality monitors that hurt your eyes, on the other hand, will make streaming feel monotonous and more like a chore than a passion. The result will be a low-energy stream without the hype required to get viewers to smash that follow button.

Final thoughts on the best monitors for streaming

Getting a high-quality gaming monitor, like the Samsung Odyssey G7, is going to go a long way for you in your streaming career or hobby. At the same time, I also feel certain that any of the monitors on our list (except the ZenScreen) has all of the qualities necessary to be the main monitor for any person ready to start dedicating themselves to streaming. Now, go order your monitor, say your “Kappa 1, 2, 3” and get that stream started!

The post The best monitors for streaming in 2023 appeared first on Popular Science.

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Audeze Penrose X wireless gaming headset review: Planar-magnetic power https://www.popsci.com/reviews/audeze-penrose-x-review/ Tue, 27 Jul 2021 00:00:00 +0000 https://www.popsci.com/?p=383593
Audeze Penrose gaming headset
Love the Madonna-style mic. Stan Horacczek

Lots of low-end makes the Audeze Penrose X a top-tier gaming headset.

The post Audeze Penrose X wireless gaming headset review: Planar-magnetic power appeared first on Popular Science.

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Audeze Penrose gaming headset
Love the Madonna-style mic. Stan Horacczek

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Bass is important when it comes to video game sound. You want to hear the low rumble of your laser rifle as it hums wave after wave of pain at your digital enemies. When you finally blow up that generator you had to go through all those aliens to get to, you really want to feel the explosion. Low-end gives the game its oomph. Powered by Audeze’s planar-magnetic drivers, this wireless gaming headset doesn’t fuss too much with spatial audio or super-convincing surround. But it does churn out ample volume and rumble in a semi-luxurious package. The Audeze Penrose X gaming headset has oomph to spare.

Stan Horacczek

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What is the Audeze Penrose wireless planar-magnetic headset?

Planar-magnetic headphones like the Audeze Penrose X work differently than the typical over-the-ear ’phones you’re probably used to, which rely on cone-shaped drivers made of paper, plastic, or metal. This setup can produce some truly wonderful sounds but also experience distortion when that cone doesn’t move in perfect harmony. 

Audeze’s planar-magnetic headphones, however, employ massive, flat, extremely thin diaphragms and powerful magnet arrays that can move large amounts of air without malforming, which prevents the sound from breaking up and sounding, well, crappy. The ability to maintain a composed tone even during intense sonic workouts gained Audeze headphones a sizeable following among audiophiles. Now the technology has trickled down.

Outside of the earcups, the Penrose headset looks and feels rather familiar. It’s extremely similar to the HyperX Orbit headset I’ve used for gaming in the past. The Penrose keeps all of its built-in controls on the bottom of the left earcup. You can adjust the mic volume, the audio level, and play/pause music with a single button. It’s a pretty standard setup.

Connecting the Audeze Penrose X

Audeze Penrose X wireless dongle
The wireless dongle provides a fast connection, but it’s large. Stan Horacczek

Before hearing the boom coming from those drivers, we must first connect the Audeze Penrose X to an audio source. I tested out the Xbox-specific model of the Penrose, which works with Microsoft’s Xbox Series X next-gen gaming console, as well as a PC (there’s also a variant designed specifically for PlayStation, PC, and Mac). 

The main connection comes from a dongle that creates a low-latency 2.4GHz connection between the machine and the headset. In the gaming world, latency is universally bad. The faster the headphones can talk to the console or computer, the less delay there is between the in-game action and your eardrums. The dongle is nearly 2 inches long and has a hardware switch to go between Xbox and PC mode. From a design standpoint, it feels a bit dated, but the connection is fast and reliable, so we’ll accept function over fashion in this case. 

You can also connect to the Audeze Penrose X headset using the included 3.5mm audio cable. Even with a direct connection, however, the headphones need to be charged to pump out sound, unlike some more consumer-oriented headphones like the excellent Sony WH-1000XM4.

The Audeze Penrose X headphones can also connect via Bluetooth, which seemed to work just fine, but you’re paying for the speed of the wireless connection, and these are too bulky to wear around on the street, so Bluetooth is best as a backup. It can also come in handy if you want to dual-pair the Penrose with a mobile device. Most players handle this with a service like Discord running on the PC, but if you want to save all that processing power for gaming and streaming, you can get your smartphone into the mix. 

How does the Audeze Penrose X gaming headset sound?

Audeze Penrose X gaming headset
Here’s a closer look at the controls on the bottom of the left earcup. Stan Horacczek

I spent the first few days with the Penrose setup just like it is out of the box. There’s always the temptation to start tweaking away immediately, but I think it’s important to hear the default settings since many players will never change them. 

As expected, the bass booms. In-game explosions I caused sounded perfectly satisfying thanks to those 100mm drivers (in comparison, dynamic headphone drivers average 30mm to 50mm). Explosions my opponents caused were appropriately infuriating. The same was true when watching content. I streamed the wonderfully ridiculous Nicolas Cage classic Con Air, and while the Penrose couldn’t do anything about Cage’s perplexing accent, it did justice to the epic crash near the film’s end. 

The mids sound great, too. In-game dialog sounds crisp and clear for the most part. Things start to get a little less flattering in the highs. Planar-magnetic drivers do everything they can to manage distortion, but I found the highs harsh under the standard configuration. Listening to “Latin Grammys” by Action Bronson, the “s” sounds and higher-pitched parts of the beat had a slight edge that my ear didn’t love. I noticed a similar phenomenon while gaming. Alien screeching is supposed to be unpleasant, but it bordered on physically uncomfortable if I kept the volume too high. 

Tweaking the settings

Audeze doesn’t expect everyone to like the stock tuning, so the company built an app for mobile and PC to specifically to customize the overall sound. I found the app nicely designed and easy to navigate. Of course, dialing in the sound quality you want requires some knowledge or at least considerable patience when it comes to trial and error. I spent about 20 minutes messing around with the settings until I tamed the treble and got it dialed to what I liked. 

You must create your own presets by adjusting individual channels unless you want to download presets from the Audeze site. Some presets address specific types of music, while others provide sound tweaked to work with individual video games. So, if you want the ideal Rocket League or Call of Duty: Warzone mix, you can download it. I tried it with Call of Duty: Warzone (a game at which I’m truly terrible) and didn’t notice a profound difference in performance. But, the difference may be more pronounced if you spend every waking hour in the game.

To be clear, the sound quality was totally fine—and even excellent in the low-end—before the tweaking. But if you spend $300 on a headset, it’s worth the extra effort to get it just right. 

What about this “spatial audio” thing?

If you follow high-end gaming gear, you may be familiar with Penrose’s bigger sibling, the Audeze Mobius. That $400 headset (!) commands an even more premium price thanks to its advanced chops regarding spatial audio. The Mobius has built-in head tracking and knows when you move your noggin, adjusting the soundstage to match. (You can read our full thoughts on that headset here.)

The Audeze Penrose X, on the other hand, doesn’t support any of that advanced spatial stuff. Audeze clearly states that the Penrose was designed as a two-channel system for maximum quality in a stereo arrangement. The console can still pump out “3D sound” via platforms like Dolby Atmos, but its effect is somewhat limited. It may sound like a strict downgrade, but some people (like me) prefer this setup. I sometimes find the hardcore spatial stuff a little too immersive; you already know what I mean if you’ve ever played a horror game in an expensive pair of head-tracking headphones. If you haven’t and you’re thinking about trying it, make sure you don’t have a full cup of coffee on your desk because you’ll spill it on your favorite pair of Vans slip-ons and ruin them. It happened to me. 

The previously mentioned HyperX Orbit headset goes hard on head tracking, and it’s cool during playtime. Still, it would sometimes kick in when I was just casually listening to music or even talking on video chats, which was distracting. However, if you want that full-fledged immersion, the Penrose might not be your best bet. 

Comfort and comms

Audeze Penrose X gaming headset
There’s plenty of padding. Stan Horacczek

Like many other high-end gaming headsets, the Penrose feels like strapping a pleather sofa to your head. The headset weighs more than 11 ounces, and thick padding covers almost every surface that could touch your head. 

The ear cups are comfortable, but I actually found them a touch small. I had to maneuver them a little to get my entire ear encased in the cup instead of just plopping them on my head. Once they’re in position, the memory foam pads keep them plenty comfortable. 

The closed-back design helps with sound, but it also makes the Penrose run a little warm after a long bout of wearing it. The clamping force isn’t excessive, though, and the massive pad across the top of the head prevented it from digging into my scalp, which is a plus. 

Ultimately, the Audeze Penrose X is a comfortable gaming headset, but you’re not going to forget you’re wearing it. And neither will anyone watching you on-stream since it’s a fairly large chunk of gear.

Built-in microphone

Like other high-end gaming headsets, the Audeze Penrose X includes a detachable “Blonde Ambition”-era Madonna-style headset mic that curls out from the left earcup and sits in front of your mouth. Audeze calls it “broadcast quality,” which seems a little outdated when so many streamers and even frequent Zoom meeting attendees have upgraded to dedicated PC microphones. 

Overall, I found the Penrose mic solid but not mind-blowing. No one in my game squads or Zoom calls had any issue at all with the audio. At one point, I let my son try it with his Xbox, and he’s the kind of gamer that yells when things don’t go his way. In that situation, I was actually impressed that the mic could handle his loud exclamations without cracking up. I’d still prefer he learn not to yell while gaming, but at least he won’t blow out everyone’s eardrums with distortion this way. 

So, who should buy the Audeze Penrose X?

Even with all these words behind us, I could still say positive things about the Audeze Penrose X gaming headset. The 13-hour battery life is solid and reliable. Plus, it has an extra-long USB-C charging cable to keep it plugged in as you game, even if you’re out of juice. 

For $299, there are many excellent options in direct competition. If you’re specifically looking for an Xbox Series X headset, Microsoft’s first-party offering offers surprisingly excellent performance for just $99. It doesn’t compete with the Penrose on power and overall quality, but that’s a big price difference. 

While I haven’t tried the $400 Mobius, I have used comparable headsets that offer deep spatial audio features. Frankly, I still like the stereo setup better, but I’m also a hybrid user. If you spend your nights playing games and your days discussing various Excel spreadsheets, I think the Audeze Penrose X is a better option in wireless gaming headphones. Just make sure to plug the transmitter into the back of your computer so you don’t almost kick it and break it. I learned that the hard way as well. 

The post Audeze Penrose X wireless gaming headset review: Planar-magnetic power appeared first on Popular Science.

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The most exciting entertainment innovations of 2022 https://www.popsci.com/technology/best-entertainment-innovations-2022/ Thu, 01 Dec 2022 22:00:00 +0000 https://www.popsci.com/?p=488475
It's the Best of What's New.
It's the Best of What's New. Paramount Pictures, Skydance and Jerry Bruckheimer Films

A film that takes you inside Navy fighter jets, a projector that can display on the ceiling, and a super-bright gaming monitor are the Best of What’s New.

The post The most exciting entertainment innovations of 2022 appeared first on Popular Science.

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It's the Best of What's New.
It's the Best of What's New. Paramount Pictures, Skydance and Jerry Bruckheimer Films

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The entertainment category for Best of What’s New used to primarily contain devices meant for consuming content. But that’s changed. While our Grand Award Winner goes to a big-budget movie this year, you’ll find an increasing number of devices meant for actually making content. Self-flying drones, all-encompassing camera rigs, and even high-end monitors give people the opportunity to make their own content rather than simply consuming it. Other items on this list—primarily the earbuds—provide a reminder that content is a constant part of our lives. We’ve changed the content we consume for entertainment, but more than that, we’ve changed the way we interact with it. And these gadgets help shape that relationship.

Looking for the complete list of 100 winners? Find it here.

Grand Award Winner

Top Gun: Maverick by Skydance Media/Paramount: A high-speed upgrade to practical filmmaking

Paramount Pictures, Skydance and Jerry Bruckheimer Films

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We’re all too used to watching computer-generated action sequences in movies. When Hulk smashes up the scene or aliens attack a city, we know it’s fake. The sequel to Top Gun, which arrived in May—36 years after the original—did it differently. Actors trained in real aircraft to prepare to climb into Navy F/A-18F Super Hornets, and when they did, they experienced crushing G forces as the jets maneuvered at speeds that ranged from about 250 mph to more than 400. To film it, the studio turned to custom cameras carefully mounted within the cockpits, and other aircraft like the L-39 CineJet shot while airborne, too. That approach, plus scenes shot on both the USS Theodore Roosevelt and USS Abraham Lincoln aircraft carriers, all add up to give the film a degree of excitement and verisimilitude that’s rare. While the film is still a product of Hollywood that made some use of CGI, and doubles as a recruiting vehicle for the Navy, we still salute its commitment to capturing the thrill and speed of Naval aviation.

Freestyle Projector by Samsung: An advanced projector that handles its own setup process

Samsung

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Samsung’s Freestyle fixes one of our biggest complaints with projectors: that moving them to find the perfect angle is a pain. The floating, tube-shaped all-in-one projector is attached to its frame on a pair of hinges, which lets it be tilted up or down with very little force. The Freestyle can be twisted a full 180 degrees, allowing it to be pointed forward for a traditional viewing experience, or vertically to play games on your ceiling. You can use your phone to enable “smart calibration,” which adjusts its brightness and color settings based on the color of your walls and the room’s lighting conditions. The Freestyle’s fun form factor and smart settings are complemented by impressive hardware features, like native 1080p resolution, stereo speakers, and an HDMI port for connecting external devices. There’s also a USB-C port in case you’d like to connect the Freestyle to a high-capacity power bank to take it on the go.

Frame TV Anti-Glare Matte Display by Samsung: A 4K TV that isn’t afraid of a bright room

Samsung

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A couple of years ago, Samsung imagined a creative way to make use of a large, borderless, high-resolution screen when you’re not using it to watch videos or play games: displaying famous artwork on your wall. The problem was the TV’s LCD panel, which reflected light and made older paintings look like they were displayed on a screen rather than a canvas. That changes with the second-generation Frame, which has an anti-reflective matte display. Despite the change in technologies, Samsung says you’ll still be able to see a billion colors on the screen, and that it’ll continue to automatically adjust its color balance based on your brightness preferences. If you can’t justify the cost of an original Rembrandt, Samsung’s new Frame will be the next best thing.

Linkbuds by Sony: Earbuds that mix your audio with the real world

Sony created its LinkBuds to be the antithesis of noise-canceling headphones. They let outside sound in so you never need to take them out. The buds have a hard-shelled body, which means they won’t create a tight seal around your ear, and boast a circular cutout, which Sony calls an open ring. The ring gives LinkBuds their unique look, and is also where the earbuds’ driver is located. Sound is fed from the ring through the bud into your ear, along with some noise from the outside world. You’ll hear cars honking, airplane engines, and people on the street. But if you’re a runner who wants to hear a vehicle approach, this is a feature, not a bug.

QC II earbuds by Bose: Active noise cancellation that works across every frequency

Typical noise-canceling headphones have trouble blocking out sound in the middle frequencies between roughly 120Hz and 400Hz. That allows sounds like voices to occasionally get through. Bose has totally reconfigured its noise-canceling algorithm and hardware setup in order to fill in that ANC gap without creating uncomfortable ear pressure or compromising audio quality. The company adjusted its noise cancellation and tuning to a user’s body by measuring the way a chime reflects off the inside of your ears back to the earbuds’ microphones. The attention to detail paid off, as outside noises are greatly reduced even if you’re not listening to music. Bose offers three listening modes by default, but you can create custom ones using the company’s app if you’d like to crank active noise cancellation all the way up, or mellow it out.

Ronin 4D by DJI: An all-encompassing cinema rig and steadicam for creators on a budget

DJI’s Ronin 4D rig looks like a futuristic weapon pulled from a Star Wars flick. In reality, it’s a full-featured cinema rig that combines a number of essential movie-making tools into one compact and extremely stable camera rig. The modular system includes DJI’s flagship Zenmuse camera, which can capture 6K raw video at up to 60 fps or 4K video at up to 120 fps. It also boasts a full-frame sensor and interchangeable camera mounts. The whole imaging rig sits on a 4-axis gimbal that stabilizes footage so convincingly that it sometimes looks like it was shot on a dolly or a crane. Because the whole system is modular, you can swap parts like monitors, storage devices, batteries, and audio gear on the fly and customize it for your shooting needs.

Alienware AW3423DW QD-OLED Gaming Monitor by Dell: The first gaming monitor with a new brighter version of OLED tech

OLED monitors typically provide unmatched contrast, image quality, and color reproduction, but they lack brightness. Quantum dot (or QLED) displays crank up the illumination, but lose some of the overall image impact found on an OLED. Enter QD-OLED. Like a typical OLED display, each pixel provides its own backlight. But the addition of quantum dots adds even more illumination, giving it a total peak brightness of 1,000 lumens while maintaining the certified HDR black levels to create ridiculous levels of contrast. And with its 175Hz native refresh rate, and super-fast 0.1-second response time, you can’t blame this pro-grade gaming monitor if you’re always getting eliminated mid-game.

Arctis Nova Pro Headset for Xbox by SteelSeries: A gaming headset that works across all of your machines

SteelSeries

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Gaming headsets typically require players to pick a platform for compatibility when you buy them. Some work with a console as well as a PC, but SteelSeries has given its Arctis Nova Pro headset the hardware it needs to work with Xbox, PS5, PC, and even the Nintendo Switch—all at the press of a button. Its secret lies in the GameDAC (short for digital audio converter), which connects to multiple systems and pumps out high-res certified sound with 360-degree spatial audio from whatever source you choose. Plush ear cups and a flexible suspension band ensure comfort, even during long, multi-platform gaming sessions.

Skydio 2+ drone by Skydio: A drone that follows commands or flies itself

Skydio

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Crashing a drone is bad for your footage—and your budget. But this high-end flying machine avoids obstacles with an advanced system that adjusts more than 500 times per second to prevent disaster. A fish-eye lens allows the drone to see 360 degrees around the craft. A dual-core Nvidia chipset generates a 3D-world model with more than 1 million data points per second to identify and avoid anything that might get in its way. With all those smarts, creatives can simply tell the drone to track them or program complex flight paths and the Skydio2+ will capture 4K video at 60 fps on its own. The drone also comes with more than 18 predetermined paths and programs that can make even basic action look worthy of a Mountain Dew commercial.

Dione soundbar by Devialet: True surround sound on a stick

Devialet

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Most soundbars allow buyers a chance to expand their audio system and add satellite speakers or at least a subwoofer. The Dione is different. It’s a totally stand-alone system that relies on nine 41mm drivers and eight built-in subwoofers in order to fulfill the entire sonic range you need to enjoy everything from high-pitched tire squeals to rumbling explosions. Thanks to its Dolby Atmos integration, it mimics a true 5.1.2 surround sound system. The sphere in the center of the bar contains one of the 41mm drivers; it rotates to allow the soundbar to achieve its spatial audio ambitions, whether it’s sitting on a TV stand or mounted somewhere around the television. Devialet’s Speaker Active Matching technology watches over the entire array to make sure none of the individual drivers surpass their optimal operating frequencies, and it even has a dynamic EQ mode that brings up dialog—so you can finally turn off the closed captioning and still understand what the actors are saying.

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7 tips to make the most of your gaming with Steam Deck https://www.popsci.com/diy/steam-deck-tips/ Tue, 29 Nov 2022 16:03:57 +0000 https://www.popsci.com/?p=492871
person playing a game on a steam deck device
Take your gaming everywhere you go. Edgar Almeida / Unsplash

Become a Steam Deck expert with this guide.

The post 7 tips to make the most of your gaming with Steam Deck appeared first on Popular Science.

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person playing a game on a steam deck device
Take your gaming everywhere you go. Edgar Almeida / Unsplash

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The Valve Steam Deck takes the portable console concept that the Nintendo Switch has made familiar and ups the stakes. This new gadget lets you carry top-tier PC games with you anywhere, and it can be yours starting at $399.

If you took advantage of the holiday sales and invested in one of these gaming consoles, you should know how to get the best out of your hardware, so you can game smarter.

Customize your Steam Deck’s game controls

If you don’t like how the Steam Deck buttons are mapped in your favorite games, you can change them. The console gives you plenty of flexibility when it comes to deciding which buttons do what.

[Related: How to stream your PC games to all your screens]

Select a game from your library and instead of tapping Play on its listing page, tap the button showing a gamepad icon on the right. On the next screen, you’ll see the controller layout, which you can tweak by selecting Edit Layout.

Tap the cog icons on the right and you’ll be able to change the action associated with each button, and joystick or touchpad move. Back on the previous screen, tap the cog next to Edit Layout to save your changes as a preset you can load up whenever you want.

Make the Steam Deck gentler on your eyes

The Steam Deck comes with a built-in night mode designed to ease the strain on your eyes late at night and in dark environments. It reduces the amount of blue light emitted by the display, creating a warmer tinge.

You can enable night mode by pressing the Steam button, then choosing Settings and Display. You’ll see that you can schedule night mode for certain times, or turn it on right away (it’ll stay on until morning). There’s also a slider underneath that lets you change the intensity of the tint.

If you want, you can also keep your screen at a fixed brightness, whether or not night mode is on. On the same screen, you can dim the display using the brightness slider, and turn off the Enable Adaptive Brightness feature so that the Steam Deck doesn’t alter it.

Get a better experience by limiting frames per second and resolution

If you’re a PC gamer, you might be familiar with the idea of dialing down graphics settings (like resolution and visual fidelity) in order to get a smoother experience. The Steam Deck lets you perform a similar sort of balancing act.

Press the three-dot button to the right of the screen and scroll down to the battery section of the menu to find the framerate slider. You can cap the frames per second at 15, 30, or 60, or leave it uncapped. Don’t be surprised by the location of these settings—lowering the framerate can improve battery life as well as make games run more reliably.

You can also make performance smoother by reducing the resolution a game runs at. With a game highlighted in your library, press the menu button (top right, the three horizontal lines), then choose Properties and General to find the resolution setting.

Stream games to your Steam Deck

As powerful as the Steam Deck is for a portable console, it can’t compete with an actual gaming PC. Some games won’t run as well on your Steam Deck, but you also have the option to stream Steam games from a PC.

You can do this through the Remote Play service over a local Wi-Fi network, which you can also use to stream games from one computer to another, or play multiplayer games with other people. As an added bonus, your Steam Deck should stay cooler than it does while playing games locally, and you’ll get more time between battery charges, too.

As long as your PC and your Steam Deck are on the same Wi-Fi network and connected to the same Steam account, via the downward arrow next to the Play or Install button on individual game pages, you should find the option to stream them as well.

Get a closer look at games on your Steam Deck

The Steam Deck’s display is clearly smaller than any desktop monitor or laptop display, which might make gaming more difficult. If you find yourself struggling to see what’s on screen, there is an integrated magnifier function you can use.

To enable it, hold down the Steam button and the L1 button, which is on the top-left shoulder of the console as you look at it. You can then use the right joystick to move the magnifier around the screen. Let go of the joystick and the two buttons, and the display interface returns to normal.

Some titles are better than others when it comes to optimizing their interfaces on the Steam Deck, but it’s a helpful tool in situations with little fast-paced action.

Hook up some peripherals to your Steam Deck

The Steam Deck is blessed with a plethora of buttons, but for some games, you might want the feel of a classic gamepad or the very precise control only a mouse and keyboard can provide. The good news is that you can easily hook up these peripherals to the console.

When it comes to gamepads (like PlayStation or Xbox controllers, for instance), you can plug them into the Steam Deck’s USB-C port and the device should instantly recognize them. You can also connect them wirelessly over Bluetooth: Press the Steam button, then choose Settings and Bluetooth to make the connection.

It’s the same with a mouse and keyboard. You can use the USB-C port (via a USB-C hub if you want to connect both peripherals at the same time), or you can go through the Bluetooth menu to pair these input devices wirelessly.

Know the shortcuts on your Steam Deck console

Keyboard shortcuts can make a huge difference to your productivity on Windows and macOS, and the same goes for the Steam Deck. These button shortcuts let you control your gadget just as you would a PC or game console.

[Related: Best PC games that demand a mouse and keyboard]

For example, press and hold the Steam button to use the Right thumbstick or the Right touchpad as a mouse. With the latter, click on the touchpad for a mouse click.

Press and hold the Steam button and then tap D-pad right to simulate an Enter key, D-pad down to simulate a Tab key, or D-pad left to simulate an Escape key. To see a full list of shortcuts, press and hold the Steam button.

The post 7 tips to make the most of your gaming with Steam Deck appeared first on Popular Science.

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The 90+ best Cyber Monday gaming deals for PC and console gamers https://www.popsci.com/gear/gaming-deals-cyber-monday-2022/ Mon, 28 Nov 2022 23:49:56 +0000 https://www.popsci.com/?p=492004
The best gaming Cyber Monday deals
Save money on console and PC games and accessories for Cyber Monday. Brandt Ranj / Popular Science

Get your game on for less money.

The post The 90+ best Cyber Monday gaming deals for PC and console gamers appeared first on Popular Science.

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The best gaming Cyber Monday deals
Save money on console and PC games and accessories for Cyber Monday. Brandt Ranj / Popular Science

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Cyber Monday is here, and you’re in luck if you’re looking to upgrade your gaming setup, get a new console, or bulk up your game library on the cheap. We found the best deals on PC and console hardware, games, and accessories to save you time. It doesn’t matter which platform you prefer, or how into gaming you are, there’s a little something for everybody. Any of our recommendations would also make great gifts for the gamer in your life if you’re currently knocking out your holiday shopping. All of the deals below are great, but we’re going to highlight two that really stand out—and are bound to sell out fast.

Xbox Series S, $239.99 (Was $299.99)

Microsoft is due to increase the price of its console hardware next year, which makes this $60 discount on its Xbox Series S especially generous. The digital-only system (there’s no disc drive) is powerful enough to play the latest games at 1440p, which is better than HD. It’s also a lot more svelte than both its predecessor (the Xbox One) and more powerful sibling (the Xbox Series X). Given the circumstances, we don’t expect the Xbox Series S to stay in stock for very long.

LG A2, $1,196.99 (Was $1,699.99)

A good TV is going to make a big difference in your gaming experience whether you play on PC or console, so do yourself a favor and upgrade to LG’s A2 if your set is a few years old. The 65-Inch 4K OLED TV will allow you to play cutting-edge games at their maximum resolution, so they’ll look sharp and smooth. It has three HDMI ports, so you can connect multiple system to it simultaneously, which is very convenient. Finally, while not strictly a gaming feature, the LG A2 supports both Alexa and the Google Assistant, so you can adjust its volume or change its inputs with your voice. Little touches like this help the LG A2 stand out, especially at its deal price.

The best game console deals

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The best Nintendo Switch game deals

The best Nintendo Switch accessory deals

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The best PlayStation 5 accessory deals

The best SSD deals

The best MicroSD card deals

More of the best Cyber Monday deals

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Why researchers are teaching AI to play Minecraft https://www.popsci.com/technology/minecraft-ai-research/ Mon, 28 Nov 2022 19:00:00 +0000 https://www.popsci.com/?p=491841
Nuclear power plant model made in Minecraft
An artist's approximation of a nuclear power plant model made in Minecraft. Planet Minecraft

OpenAI created the most trained Minecraft AI using more than 70,000 hours of gameplay.

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Nuclear power plant model made in Minecraft
An artist's approximation of a nuclear power plant model made in Minecraft. Planet Minecraft

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Nuclear fusion and Minecraft may have more in common than all the countless hours you can invest in them. As MIT Technology Review reported over the weekend, the artificial intelligence non-profit OpenAI recently built the world’s most advanced Minecraft-playing bot by analyzing over 70,000 hours of human gameplay via a new training method. While currently relegated to crafting pixelated tools and buildings, researchers claim bot’s achievements may one day help usher in breakthrough technologies like true self-driving vehicles and virtually unlimited renewable energy resources.

In order to design the first bot capable of constructing “diamond tools,” Minecraft‘s in-game items that on average takes humans about 20 minutes and 24,000 actions to craft, researchers utilized a technique known as imitation learning. As its name implies, imitation learning requires an AI to watch and improve upon thousands of human input examples to achieve its intended outcomes. Reinforcement learning, another popular and effective AI design method, instead centers on unfocused trial-and-error approach to its education.

[Related: This agile robot dog uses a video camera in place of senses.]

A major previous issue with imitation learning is that it normally requires researchers to hand-label “each step,” explains Technology Review, i.e. “doing this action makes this happen, doing that action makes that happen, and so on.” OpenAI managed to sidestep this immensely time consuming process through constructing an entirely separate neural network capable of handling the labelling procedure in what it dubs Video Pre-Training (VPT). Researchers first hired gig workers to play Minecraft, then recorded 2,000 hours of their keyboard strokes, mouse clicks, and video gameplay to use as reference for a subsequent AI bot’s training.

Using the addition of VPT, the new AI program could construct items in Minecraft previously unattainable to bots reliant only on reinforcement learning, such as the estimated 970-step process for building a table from crafted planks. When imitation and reinforcement learning were combined, the bot could handle construction projects involving over 20,000 consecutive actions.

[Related: An AI that lets cars communicate might reduce traffic jams.]

Although many years away, previous reinforcement learning accomplishments such as aiding in nuclear fusion research and self-driving advancements could potentially benefit from additional support from imitation learning gains first on display via video games like Minecraft. Until then, ethical issues abound within what data troves are utilized in methods like imitation and reinforcement learning, and how effectively they can be applied.

OpenAI was co-founded in 2015 by a team including Elon Musk and Sam Altman, and counted Peter Thiel as an initial investor. Musk stepped down from the board of directors in 2018.

We’ve reached out to OpenAI for clarification on where it gathered its 70,000 hours of Minecraft playthroughs, as well as if the videos’ authors are aware of the usage, and will update accordingly.

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Logitech’s G Cloud handheld gaming device is $50 off for Cyber Monday https://www.popsci.com/technology/logitech-g-cloud-deal-cyber-monday-2022/ Mon, 28 Nov 2022 15:55:00 +0000 https://www.popsci.com/?p=491893
Logitech G Cloud
Logitech's G Cloud gaming handheld is $50 off for Black Friday. Logitech

This is the handheld's lowest price ever.

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Logitech G Cloud
Logitech's G Cloud gaming handheld is $50 off for Black Friday. Logitech

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The G Cloud is Logitech’s first-ever dedicated portable gaming system, and the cloud-enabled device is on sale for the first time ever for Cyber Monday. The $50 discount brings the G Cloud down to $299, which is in line with the Nintendo Switch. Handheld gaming has had a renaissance lately, and the G Cloud is one of the most interesting consoles out there. So it’s a great time to take advantage of this Logitech G Cloud deal for Cyber Monday 2022.

Logitech G Cloud, $299 (Was $349)

The G Cloud runs Android, and as its name suggests, its primary purpose is playing games from streaming services like NVIDIA’s GeForce Now, Xbox Remote Play, and PlayStation Remote Play. This works very well in our tests but requires a fast, constant connection to the internet to work. You can play Android games offline, but the G Cloud is meant to be an internet-connected device. Under the right circumstances, games run beautifully and look gorgeous on the device’s 7-inch 1080p display. The G Cloud has enough processing power and memory to quickly load apps, and switch between them with ease.

A $50 discount may not seem like very much, but Logitech only released the G Cloud a couple of months ago, so any discount is pretty surprising. If you’re into handheld gaming and always play games in a place with a strong WiFi network, the Logitech G Cloud deal for Cyber Monday 2022 is one of the best gaming discounts we’ve seen.

More Logitech deals

More of the best Cyber Monday sales and Black Friday deals still available

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Best Buy Black Friday deals: TVs, electronics, appliances, and more https://www.popsci.com/gear/best-buy-black-friday-deals-2022/ Thu, 24 Nov 2022 23:35:00 +0000 https://www.popsci.com/?p=491183
Best Buy Black Friday deals 2022
Save on pretty much everything you want this Black Friday at Best Buy. Stan Horaczek

Save on TVs, computers, Apple products, wearables, and just about everything else during Best Buy Black Friday.

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Best Buy Black Friday deals 2022
Save on pretty much everything you want this Black Friday at Best Buy. Stan Horaczek

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You made it through another Thanksgiving meal. Now, it’s time to let the turkey digest while you take advantage of some killer deals on just about everything from the comfort of your own couch. Best Buy has been rolling out its Black Friday deals for a while now and we’ve been keeping track of the best discounts on the most desirable products. The variety is huge, and we’ve broken it down into categories to make it easier to peruse.

Remember, Black Friday is now in full effect, so the best deals will go quickly. If you see something you want, jump on it now and don’t hesitate. Black Friday sales aren’t a time to get stuck with the leftovers.

LG – 48″ Class A2 Series OLED 4K UHD Smart webOS TV $569 (was $1,299)

I wanted to single out this particular deal because it’s ridiculous. An OLED at any size just a few years ago would set you back well over $1,000. This panel is more than half off, but it offers the incredible picture quality that comes from OLED, as well as HDMI 2.1 ports to connect your fancy next-gen. gaming consoles. This isn’t the biggest TV, but this is a fantastic deal.

TVs

MacBooks

Desktop computers and monitors

Headphones & earbuds

Laptops

Household

Soundbars & speakers

Gaming

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The best 60 Walmart Black Friday deals https://www.popsci.com/gear/walmart-black-friday-deals/ Wed, 23 Nov 2022 03:00:00 +0000 https://www.popsci.com/?p=490324
Walmart Black Friday deals
Stan Horaczek

Get a jump on the savings without having to jump through hoops thanks to early online discounts.

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Walmart Black Friday deals
Stan Horaczek

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Black Friday is here and you can start saving on hundreds of items for your household and your loved ones with Walmart’s Black Friday deals. You can maximize your savings by getting a free 30-day trial to Walmart+ early access. That will get you free delivery from your local Walmart, free shipping, discounts on prescriptions and gas, access to stream more than 40,000 videos from Paramount, and more. We’ve highlighted some standout discounts, then listed dozens more, and we’ll keep updating this guide with new deals through Cyber Monday and beyond.

Black Friday laptop and computer deals

SAMSUNG 34″ Class Flat LED Ultra WQHD Monitor, $229.00 (was $399.99)

If you don’t want to shell out a lot for a monitor but still want an ultra-wide option with a high-quality picture, Samsung’s LED Ultra WQHD monitor is a great pick. At 34 inches across, the screen has a resolution of 3440×1440 pixels that delivers a sharp picture. A  respectable 75Hz refresh rate and AMD FreeSync technology cut down on tearing and stutter for better gaming. And the VESA-compatible mount works with both HDMI and Display Port.

Black Friday sports & outdoors deals

Hyper E-Ride Electric Bike, $398.00 (was $698.00)

Electric bikes can be pricey, but this option features quality craftsmanship at an affordable price. This eye-catching blue bike comes with an aluminum frame and premium Shimano grip shifter and rear derailleur gear system. It’s got front and rear brakes for extra safety, plus a 36-volt battery that allows for a ride time of about 20 miles—great for commuting or short rides around town.

Black Friday fitness deals

SAMSUNG Galaxy Watch 4 Classic, $149.00 (was $349.99)

Do you like the idea of smartwatches but still prefer a more classic-looking timepiece for everyday wear? The Samsung Galaxy Watch 4 Classic BT ticks both boxes. It’s got the traditional clock face with hands and stainless steel casing. Yet it will track your vital health metrics, from your oxygen levels to ECG monitoring to sleep tracking,  let you participate in group workouts, and get live coaching. Of course, you can also listen to music, take calls, and text. But hurry, at almost $200 off, this deal won’t last long.

The best Walmart Black Friday deals in 2022

Black Friday TV deals

Black Friday home theater deals

Black Friday audio deals

Black Friday gaming deals

Black Friday home deals

Black Friday kitchen deals

Black Friday deals on tools

More of the best Black Friday deals

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Let these Magic: The Gathering pre-Black Friday deals put you under their spells https://www.popsci.com/gear/magic-the-gathering-black-friday-deals-2022/ Thu, 24 Nov 2022 17:55:00 +0000 https://www.popsci.com/?p=491128
Black Friday Magic: The Gathering deals
Saving money on Magic: The Gathering almost seems like an oxymoron. Stan Horaczek

Come nerd out on Amazon deals that let you start your Magic journey or expand your collection.

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Black Friday Magic: The Gathering deals
Saving money on Magic: The Gathering almost seems like an oxymoron. Stan Horaczek

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We’re not afraid to admit it: Several PopSci staffers are serious Magic: The Gathering nerds. In fact, I was a few lucky top decks away from qualifying for a Pro Tour back in the day. While we may not play as much anymore, these active Black Friday discounts on M:TG products look awfully tempting.

The deals primarily feature booster boxes and packs from last year’s sets, so you can do a themed draft or construct a 60-card deck, as well as pre-built Commander and Challenger decks to get playing right away.

If you’re new to M:TG, you can score the handy Game Night: Free For All box for just $33 (regularly $49), which includes five pre-made decks with clear beginner-friendly mechanics that make the game easy to learn without diving too deeply into the advanced rules.

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The Xbox Series S is $50 off if you shop this early Black Friday deal https://www.popsci.com/gear/xbox-series-s-early-black-friday-deal/ Wed, 23 Nov 2022 14:55:00 +0000 https://www.popsci.com/?p=490473
Xbox Series S
Microsoft's latest console is down to its lowest price ever for Black Friday. Microsoft

This may be your last chance to get Microsoft's console at this price, but act fast!

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Xbox Series S
Microsoft's latest console is down to its lowest price ever for Black Friday. Microsoft

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Microsoft has warned that it’ll raise the price of its latest consoles in 2023 as a result of inflation, which makes this rare discount on the Xbox Series S especially significant.

Microsoft

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The console can play all the latest cutting-edge games like Elden Ring or Halo Infinite at up to 1440p, which is better than HD but not quite 4K. It also supports features like HDR (high dynamic range) for better color accuracy. Critically, the Series S lacks a disk drive, which means you’ll have to download all of your games from the Xbox digital marketplace, and won’t be able to play physical copies of Xbox 360 and Xbox One games that are backward-compatible. The Xbox Series S comes with 512GB of internal storage, but you can connect an external hard drive or upgrade module if you need more room. The Xbox Series S can also be used to stream TV shows and movies from popular services like Netflix or Hulu.

Microsoft’s early Black Friday deal brings the Xbox Series S down to $249, which is the price of Nintendo’s popular-but-not-nearly-as-powerful Switch. If you’ve been planning on a gaming console upgrade, or want to pick up a highly sought-after holiday gift for the gamer in your life, don’t miss this opportunity. We’ve seen the Series S sell out at a couple of retailers, so right now Best Buy is your best choice. And, once you’ve got the console in your cart, check out these related deals:

The best Xbox Series X game deals

The best Xbox Series S accessories

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It’s surprisingly easy to connect your favorite video game controllers to your Mac https://www.popsci.com/diy/how-to-connect-controller-to-mac/ Tue, 22 Nov 2022 13:00:00 +0000 https://www.popsci.com/?p=489848
A Macbook laptop with a PS4 controller next to it on the table.
Maybe you'd prefer a controller to a keyboard. Hello Lightbulb / Unsplash

You can now connect your Xbox, PlayStation, and Nintendo Switch controllers to your Apple computer.

The post It’s surprisingly easy to connect your favorite video game controllers to your Mac appeared first on Popular Science.

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A Macbook laptop with a PS4 controller next to it on the table.
Maybe you'd prefer a controller to a keyboard. Hello Lightbulb / Unsplash

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I love playing games on my Mac, but can’t stand sitting at my keyboard after a long day of writing internet articles. I’d rather plug my laptop into my TV and play from my couch.

And the good news is that the latest macOS, 13.0 Ventura, makes this a lot easier. For the first time, there’s a dedicated gamepad section in the System Settings, complete with the ability to remap buttons and even create profiles for different games. You can connect the controllers that pair with every current gaming console (XBox Series X/S, PlayStation 5, and Nintendo Switch), and most other Bluetooth and USB controllers should also work. This setup lets you game without the keyboard, whether you’re playing retro titles with the ultimate emulation app, you’ve downloaded a few favorites from Steam, or you’ve bought games from the App Store. 

How to connect controller to your Mac

If you’re connecting a wireless controller, head to the Bluetooth page in System Settings.

You will need to pair your controller, a process that will work a little differently depending on which controller you have. It’s particularly confusing if you’re using a console controller, so here’s how to connect the ones you’re most likely to have:

  • Nintendo Switch Pro controller: There’s a tiny, unlabeled connect button on the top of the controller, to the left of the USB-C charging port. Press and hold this button until you see it in the “Nearby Devices” list on your Mac. 
  • Nintendo Switch Joy-Con: You’ll find the minuscule sync button on the side of each controller, between the SR and SL buttons and below the indicator lights. Press and hold this until you see the Joy-Con on the “Nearby Devices” list on your Mac. You’ll need to connect both controllers—they will be used as a single controller system-wide, and can’t be used separately. 
  • PlayStation 4 and 5 DualShock controllers: Press and hold the PS and Share button at the same time, then look for your controller in the “Nearby Devices” list on your Mac. 
  • XBox Series X/S controllers: Press and hold the connect button, which has three radio waves next to it, then look for your controller in the “Nearby Devices” list on your Mac.

Note that to use the controller with your console again, you will need to re-pair it with the console. If you choose to go back to gaming on your Mac after that, you’ll have to re-pair it with your computer. It’s tedious, so keep this in mind. 

[Related: Video gaming is for everybody now. Here’s how to get back into it.]

Other Bluetooth controllers should work, although some older console controllers may be problematic. For example, I couldn’t get a Wiimote to work, but I could plug in a PlayStation 2 controller using a USB adapter without difficulty.

After connecting, you should be good to go. Any game that supports gamepads should work with the device you connected, or at the very least offer the controller as an option in its settings. I tried this with a few indie games and was delighted. 

And the nice thing is that the “home” button, which most gamepads offer, will open up the Games folder on your Mac’s Launchpad. From there, you can pick a game without touching your mouse or keyboard. It’s a nice touch. 

You can customize your controllers on MacOS

The video game controller configuration and customization options on macOS.
There’s no rule that says you have to play with the buttons the designers gave you. Justin Pot

If you want to customize your gamepad by, say, changing which buttons do what, you can. Head to the Game Controllers section in System Settings, where you’ll see every game controller you’ve connected and whether or not they’re currently hooked up.

Click Identify, and that specific controller will vibrate. Click the controller to reconfigure which buttons do what. You could, for example, switch the “A” and “B” buttons, if you prefer playing games that way.

You can make these changes system-wide, if you like, or you can create individual profiles for any games you play regularly that you want to create specific configurations for. This makes it possible for you to customize your layout for a specific game—useful when a game doesn’t organize the buttons in a way that makes sense to you. 

All this means you have a lot of power to configure your controllers to work just the way you want them to, which should make for much more relaxed Mac gaming sessions. Maybe I’ll finally manage to finish the last level of Celeste. 

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Razer’s ultra-portable gaming laptop is $800 off for Black Friday https://www.popsci.com/gear/razer-blade-14-laptop-deal-black-friday/ Mon, 21 Nov 2022 19:55:00 +0000 https://www.popsci.com/?p=489482
Razer Blade 14
Razer's Blade 14 offers the ideal mix of portability and power gamers need to play the latest titles anywhere in the world. Razer

This deep discount on Razer's powerful portable is the best early Black Friday computer deal we've seen yet.

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Razer Blade 14
Razer's Blade 14 offers the ideal mix of portability and power gamers need to play the latest titles anywhere in the world. Razer

We may earn revenue from the products available on this page and participate in affiliate programs. Learn more ›

The Razer Blade 14 is one of the best dedicated gaming laptops on the market, and it’s currently down to its lowest price ever on Amazon. This four-pound machine can play all the latest games at reasonably high resolutions without causing permanent back problems if you try to carry it around.

Razer

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Currently available for $1,999, $800 less than its regular $2,799, the 14-inch laptop runs on a Ryzen 9 5900x processor and has a 1TB of storage, 16GB of RAM, and an NVIDIA GeForce RTX 3080 with 8GB of dedicated video memory. Its QHD display will allow you to play games at higher-than-HD resolutions, and its 165Hz refresh rate will make the on-screen action look super smooth. You’ll have a better experience playing games on the Razer Blade 14 than many cheap gaming monitors—despite the smaller screen size. The premium components in this laptop require a lot of power, but Razer designed its burly cooling system to prevent the machine (and hopefully your lap) from overheating. The company says this machine gets up to 10 hours of battery life per charge, but that will depend on which games you’re playing and at what settings.

Razer outfitted its laptop with two USB-C ports, two USB-A ports, an HDMI port, and a headphone jack, so you can easily plug in any accessories without an adapter. The HDMI port is an especially nice touch as you’ll be able to connect the machine directly to any monitor or TV. These ports are complemented by support for Wi-Fi 6e and Bluetooth 5.2, which are the latest versions of these wireless standards. All of the Razer Blade 14’s tech specs are impressive, but what’s especially great is that they all fit into a highly compact package. This laptop is just over half 1-inch thick, which means you’ll be able to fit it into a backpack without adding too much bulk. We’ve already mentioned this machine’s impressively low weight, which makes it a good choice for frequent travelers. Plus, all that computing power and its high-end screen make it a solid choice for content creators who need to edit photos and videos when they’re not battling zombies or other in-game enemies.

If you’ve given up PC gaming because you don’t have enough space for a desktop, or spend a lot of time away from home, the Razer Blade 14 is the ideal solution, especially at its current price.

The best gaming laptop deals:

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Best FreeSync monitors of 2023 https://www.popsci.com/gear/best-freesync-monitors/ Mon, 06 Jun 2022 13:00:00 +0000 https://www.popsci.com/?p=447693
FreeSync monitors sliced header
Stan Horaczek

AMD’s FreeSync technology will elevate your gaming experience to a whole new level.

The post Best FreeSync monitors of 2023 appeared first on Popular Science.

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FreeSync monitors sliced header
Stan Horaczek

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Best overall Viewsonic ELITE monitor product image ViewSonic ELITE XG320U
SEE IT

With a 32-inch 4K screen, HDMI 2.1, and FreeSync Premium Pro support, the ViewSonic Elite XG320U is tough to beat.

Best 1440p ASUS ROG Strix monitor product card Asus ROG Swift PG329Q
SEE IT

The Asus ROG PG329Q delivers crisp 1440p visuals at a speedy 175Hz.

Best 4K LG Ultragear 27 monitor product image LG UltraGear 27GP950-B
SEE IT

Experience the benefits of FreeSync Premium Pro in one of LG’s best gaming monitors.

With the proper hardware, PC gaming unlocks a thrilling world of possibilities you can’t get anywhere else. Nothing can ruin that excitement faster than technical hangups like stuttering and screen tearing. Luckily, modern gaming PCs and monitors now support variable refresh rate features like AMD FreeSync, which prevent those issues and provide players with smoother, more fluid animations. FreeSync and its counterpart, Nvidia G-Sync, are display technologies, so you need to keep an eye out for which one you want to use when picking out a new gaming monitor. We’ll help you learn the ropes of FreeSync, and help you pick the best FreeSync monitor for your gaming rig.

What is AMD FreeSync?

AMD FreeSync is one of two versions of adaptive sync technology, also known as variable refresh rate. Introduced by graphics card manufacturer AMD in 2015, FreeSync mitigates “visual artifacts,” or flaws in your monitor’s image like stuttering and screen tearing. By matching your monitor’s target refresh rate with the maximum output set by your FreeSync-compatible GPU, your system avoids falling out of step when your PC’s performance momentarily rises or dips.

FreeSync is one of two technologies providing this feature, but it is the more common of the two. The other version, Nvidia G-Sync, technically calls for a proprietary chip in the monitor hardware and is specifically designed for Nvidia GPUs. FreeSync, on the other hand, is purely software-based, which makes it more affordable for manufacturers. As such, FreeSync support is more common than G-Sync, especially in less expensive displays. That said, both connections are widely available in today’s monitors.

There are currently three tiers of FreeSync support. The basic version of FreeSync offers lower latency and a tear-free experience. The middle tier, FreeSync Premium, supports lower latency for 1080p monitors with a 120Hz refresh rate or higher. It also adds “low framerate compensation,” which allows FreeSync to continue working when the frame rate dips below the minimum refresh rate of the display. The top tier, FreeSync Premium Pro, features everything in Premium and adds high dynamic range (HDR) support for improved visual fidelity when playing games and watching videos.

How we picked the best FreeSync monitors

I have over ten years of experience reviewing consumer electronics for websites like TechnoBuffalo, XDA Developers, and Gear Patrol. I’ve built gaming PCs and have used various monitors for testing purposes, evaluating important metrics like display quality, connectivity, and color accuracy. When I’m not assessing monitors for a review, I’m using one to watch movies, play video games, and edit photos. When selecting these displays, I drew on my prior testing experience and knowledge, as well as critical consensus from professional reviewers, consumer feedback, and forum chatter on the intricacies of the most popular gaming monitors.

The best FreeSync monitors: Reviews & Recommendations

FreeSync is a widely adopted format. It isn’t hard to find monitors that support it. Of course, the more options there are, the harder it is to find the best FreeSync monitors. These are currently our top picks.

Best overall: ViewSonic Elite XG320U

Viewsonic

SEE IT

Buy it used or refurbished: eBay

Why it made the cut: The ViewSonic Elite XG320U has a sharp 4K display, plenty of ports, and a FreeSync Premium Pro rating.

Specs

  • Screen size: 32-inch
  • Resolution: 3840 x 2160 pixels (4K)
  • Refresh rate: 150Hz
  • Ports: HDMI 2.0, HDMI 2.1, DisplayPort 1.2, USB-A 3.1 x 3, USB-B 3.1, Micro-USB
  • Panel type: IPS
  • HDR: VESA DisplayHDR 600
  • FreeSync: FreeSync Premium Pro

Pros

  • Excellent 4K picture
  • FreeSync Premium Pro
  • HDMI 2.1

Cons

  • Expensive

The ViewSonic Elite X320U features an impressive 32-inch 4K panel, and support for Freesync Premium Pro, opening the door for excellent HDR performance and a bright, vivid picture. It also offers a snappy 1ms response time. Additionally, the ViewSonic Elite X320U features an excellent array of ports, including HDMI 2.1, making it a great pick for consoles and PCs.

Best 1440p: Asus ROG Swift PG329Q

ASUS

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Buy it used or refurbished: eBay

Why it made the cut: The Asus ROG PG329Q features a sharp 1440p display, 175Hz refresh rate, and DisplayHDR 600.

Specs

  • Screen size: 32-inch
  • Resolution: 2560 x 1440 pixels
  • Refresh rate: 175Hz
  • Ports: HDMI 2.0 x 2, DisplayPort 1.2, USB-A 3.0 x 2, USB-B 3.0
  • Panel type: IPS
  • HDR: VESA DisplayHDR 600
  • FreeSync: FreeSync

Pros

  • Fast response time
  • DisplayHDR 600
  • Bright, vibrant display

Cons

  • Limited contrast ratio

If you’re upgrading from 1080p to 1440p, the Asus ROG Swift PG329Q offers an excellent way to step up your visuals. It features a sharp, vibrant IPS panel that covers 98 percent of the DCI-P3 color gamut. At the same time, it keeps your games looking smooth with a 175Hz refresh rate and 1ms response time. It only offers standard FreeSync, so you’ll have to choose between variable refresh rate and HDR, but having VESA DisplayHDR 600 rating means you actually have options.

Best 4K: LG UltraGear 27GP950-B

Buy it used or refurbished: eBay

Why it made the cut: The UltraGear 27GP950-B is one of LG’s best monitors, and it just happens to support FreeSync Premium Pro.

Specs

  • Screen size: 27-inch
  • Resolution: 3840 x 2160 pixels (4K)
  • Refresh rate: 144Hz
  • Ports: HDMI 2.1 x 2, DisplayPort 1.4, USB-A 3.2 Gen 1 x 2, USB-B
  • Panel type: IPS
  • HDR: VESA DisplayHDR 600
  • FreeSync: FreeSync Premium Pro

Pros

  • Excellent 4K display
  • DisplayHDR 600
  • HDMI 2.1

Cons

  • Limited contrast

The LG UltraGear 27GP950-B is one of our favorite monitors from LG, and it’s easy to see why. It features a gorgeous 27-inch 4K display that supports a smooth 144Hz refresh rate. The IPS panel covers 98 percent of the DCI-P3 color space, and DisplayHDR 600, so it can achieve high levels of brightness. With FreeSync Premium Pro support, that means you get variable refresh rate and HDR working together. It almost brings a tear to your eye …

Best FreeSync Premium Pro: Samsung Odyssey G7

Samsung

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Buy it used or refurbished: eBay

Why it made the cut: Samsung’s curved Odyssey G7 display brings all the trappings of a luxury monitor, including 1440p resolution, QLED brightness, a 240Hz refresh rate, and FreeSync Premium Pro.

Specs

  • Screen Size: 27-inch (32-inch also available)
  • Resolution: 2560 x 1440 
  • Refresh rate: 240Hz
  • Ports: HDMI 2.0, DisplayPort 1.4, 2 x USB-A 3.0
  • Panel type: VA
  • HDR: VESA DisplayHDR 600
  • FreeSync: FreeSync Premium Pro

Pros

  • Rich, vibrant display
  • VESA DisplayHDR 600
  • 240Hz refresh rate

Cons

  • Narrow viewing angles

The Samsung Odyssey G7 comes in 27- and 32-inch variants, both of which look incredibly sharp. The deeply curved 4K display creates an intense sense of immersion, spreading your games to reach the corners of your peripheral vision. Vivid colors and deep blacks feel bolder and brighter thanks to a 1440p VA panel and QLED-enhanced DisplayHDR 600 brightness. Curved displays are an acquired taste, but this monitor may just convert you.

Best ultrawide: LG 34GP83A-B UltraGear Gaming Monitor

Buy it used or refurbished: eBay

Why it made the cut: Featuring a 34-inch curved 21:9 display, 144Hz refresh rate, and support for FreeSync Premium, the LG 34GP83A-B is a great ultrawide monitor.

Specs

  • Screen size: 34-inch
  • Resolution: 3440 x 1440 pixels (21:9)
  • Refresh rate: 144Hz
  • Ports: HDMI 2.0 x 2, DisplayPort 1.4, USB-A 3.0 x 2, USB-B 3.0
  • Panel type: IPS
  • HDR: VESA DisplayHDR 400
  • FreeSync: FreeSync Premium

Pros

  • Wide, vibrant display
  • FreeSync Premium support
  • Low input lag

Cons

  • Low contrast

Once you start using a curved display, it’ll only be a matter of time until you start to consider the merits of a 21:9 curved ultrawide monitor, which extends that immersive wrapping screen to give as much space as two small monitors combined. The LG UltraGear 34GP83A-B is a great gateway into that specific, wider view, with a 34-inch, 3440 x 1440 pixel display with a 144Hz refresh rate, and support for FreeSync Premium. That means you get low latency and support for low framerate compensation, which allows FreeSync to continue working when the framerate dips below the minimum refresh rate of the display. 

Again, ultrawide displays aren’t for everyone; It takes a little more futzing with settings to get games looking perfect. The people who like them swear by them, though, so it’s always an interesting choice to keep in mind.

Best budget: Gigabyte M27Q

Gigabyte

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Buy it used or refurbished: eBay

Why it made the cut: With a 27-inch QHD display and FreeSync Premium support, the Gigabyte M27Q gives you strong specs at an affordable price.

Specs

  • Screen size: 27-inch
  • Resolution: 2560 x 1440 pixels
  • Refresh rate: 144Hz
  • Ports: HDMI 2.0 x 2, DisplayPort 1.2, USB-A 3.0 x 2, USB-B 3.0, USB-C 3.0
  • Panel type: IPS
  • HDR: VESA DisplayHDR 400
  • FreeSync: FreeSync Premium

Pros

  • Excellent Quad HD picture
  • Fantastic response time
  • Affordable

Cons

  • Poor black levels

If you want FreeSync Premium at a comparatively affordable price, the Gigabyte M27Q is a very solid, budget-conscious upgrade pick. This 27-inch 1440p display features a 144Hz refresh rate and low 1ms response time. It also features 92 percent coverage of DCI-P3 wide color gamut, which is a very solid showing at this price. At 360Hz, I wouldn’t exactly call the M27Q “cheap,” per se, but there are plenty of similar monitors with higher price tags.

What to look for when choosing the best FreeSync monitors

At this point, most gaming monitors support FreeSync. Aside from avoiding G-Sync monitors to save some money, picking a FreeSync monitor is essentially the same as picking any other gaming monitor. That means you’ll want to consider all the core elements of any display, including screen size, resolution, frame rate, and connectivity. We get it—picking monitors is a pain. Hopefully, this will help make sense of things as you shop.

Resolution and size

Screen resolution refers to the number of pixels your monitor uses to create an image, which determines how crisp and detailed an image looks. Most modern monitors feature one of three display sizes: The baseline is 1920 x 1080, or 1080p for short. There’s a middle option, 2560 x 1440 pixels, which manufacturers call 1440p or Quad HD. At the top, you have 3840 x2160, or 4K UHD. You will see variations on these resolutions, particularly among ultrawide gaming monitors, but most target one of these three.

1080p, also called Full HD, is the current standard for most basic monitors, whether they’re made for gaming or for general use. While more and more gaming PCs are capable of playing games in 1440p and 4K, 1080p remains the most affordable option and the easiest way to ensure your game runs smoothly. If you own a PC with older components, choosing a 1080p monitor will allow you to maintain a higher framerate.

1440p is a great option if you own a mid-range or high-end PC. It offers a sharp, detailed picture for players who want the highest possible visual fidelity without sacrificing technical performance. Unlike with TVs and console gaming, running games in 4K is a luxury reserved for high-end graphics cards. We primarily recommend 4K displays for creative professionals, such as photographers and video editors.

Screen size also impacts image quality. Most displays come in 24, 27, or 32 inches, all of which provide plenty of screen real estate if you’re sitting between 1 foot and 3 feet away. Of course, you can go bigger or smaller depending on your needs and the size of your workspace, and you should scale your desired resolution with the screen size that works best for you.

When picking your display, keep in mind that size and resolution can complement each other. A 24-inch 4K display and a 32-inch 4K display both show the same number of pixels, but spread them across different areas. While you might expect bigger size and higher resolution are always better, we find that the most important thing is balance. A 24-inch display will have more pixels per inch, but some text and icons may be difficult to see because they’re so small. 

We’d recommend sticking with 1080p if you’re looking at a 24-inch monitor, or a 27-inch 1440p monitor. If you’re looking for a big monitor—32 inches or larger—you’ll want to spend the extra money for 4K. These are recommendations, not hard rules. There are great 27-inch 4K monitors and 32-inch Quad HD monitors, so don’t worry if money or other specs lead you to another combination.

Refresh rate

Refresh rate, measured in Hertz (Hz), refers to the number of times your display updates each second. The higher the refresh rate, the smoother and more fluid animations will look. Though it can impact how your mouse moves around your desktop, having a high refresh rate disproportionately impacts gaming performance. Your monitor’s maximum refresh rate sets a game’s maximum framerate.

Most home and office monitors stick to a basic 60Hz framerate. We generally recommend PC gamers purchase a monitor with a 144Hz refresh rate or higher. Competitive players who spend their time with shooters, MOBAs, and other esports may want to aim for a higher refresh rate: There are plenty of 240Hz monitors and high-end models that go up to 360Hz. By the end of 2023, you should be able to buy a 500Hz gaming monitor.

Your monitor sets the upper and lower limits for what you can see, but your PC actually runs the game, so it determines what frame rates are possible for any given game. The more powerful your PC, the higher your frame rate will go. On PC, you also often have the option to turn down visual settings, reducing fidelity to allow for higher frame rates and smoother performance.

Connectivity

FreeSync operates over DisplayPort and HDMI, both of the audio/visual standards available in just about every PC monitor available today. Having access to both gives you a lot of flexibility when setting up your gaming PC.

You’re probably familiar with HDMI, or High-Definition Multimedia Interface. Introduced in 2002, it’s the most common A/V connection found in TVs, soundbars, and, yes, monitors. The current version of the standard, HDMI 2.1, is increasingly important in TVs and monitors for playing PS5 and Xbox Series X games. The previous version, HDMI 2.0, is still dominant among modern monitors, though, and perfectly fine unless you plan to play games in 4K above 60Hz. (For more about the nuances of HDMI, check out our explainer on HDMI 2.1 and then pick up the best HDMI cables.)

Realistically, though, DisplayPort is the connection of choice for PCs and monitors. As with HDMI, you’ll encounter multiple versions of the standard—including 1.2, 1.3, 1.4, and 2.0—each with its own benefits and restrictions. We recommend looking for monitors that support DisplayPort 1.4 (and above), which ensures support for up to 8K video with HDR at 60Hz. Most players will get their desired frame rate and resolution from DisplayPort 1.3, which supports up to 4K at 120Hz or 8K at 30Hz, but it doesn’t support HDR.

High dynamic range (HDR)

High dynamic range, commonly known as HDR, is a display technology that empowers a monitor to show varying brightness levels on different parts of a screen. It is most frequently referenced as a gaming feature, though some streaming services offer HDR-enhanced content.

HDR has become ubiquitous in TVs but is considered a luxury feature in gaming monitors. This is, in large part, because monitors must be very bright to support properly show the wide variations in brightness HDR offers. If you want to use HDR, we generally recommend looking for a monitor with a VESA DisplayHDR 600 rating or higher, or a monitor with a maximum brightness of at least 600 nits.

HDR gets even more complicated when you try to use it and FreeSync at the same time. Currently, you can only use them both on monitors that support FreeSync Premium Pro. Moreover, FreeSync Premium Pro’s HDR differs slightly from a conventional HDR pipeline. According to AMD, a monitor that supports FreeSync Premium Pro passes specifications and data straight to a PC, allowing games to directly tone map to the display. This helps reduce input latency. FreeSync Premium Pro’s baseline HDR requires display support DisplayHDR 400 or higher, resulting in at least twice the perceived color volume as SDR (sRGB). 

Panel type

The majority of today’s monitors, with few exceptions, feature LED-backlit liquid crystal displays. The screen panels themselves come in three different varieties, which feature characteristics that will impact your monitor’s performance. Our picks focus on two of the three: Vertical alignment (VA) and in-plane switching (IPS). The third type, twisted nematic (TN), is often found in monitors that prioritize response time over color accuracy and depth.

IPS panels offer excellent color reproduction but struggle with poor contrast. This should lead to bold colors, but you may not get the sharpest lines and deepest blacks. VA panels offer impressive contrast and color reproduction, but trend toward higher response times, so they’re more prone to motion blur and ghosting. Ultimately, these distinctions are relatively minor—there are fast VA panels and sharp-looking IPS displays. However, it is useful as a shorthand if you want to avoid diving into reviews and forum posts about color accuracy.

FAQs

Q: What are FreeSync’s requirements?

FreeSync’s minimum requirements aren’t as stringent as Nvidia G-Sync. FreeSync is a software-based solution and only requires an AMD GPU and a compatible monitor or TV.

More specifically, FreeSync works with all AMD Radeon graphics cards, beginning with Radeon RX 200 Series, and Radeon consumer graphics products that use GCN 2.0 architecture or later. Compatible desktop APUs include Ryzen APUs with a motherboard DisplayPort or HDMI connections. According to AMD, there are now over 950 monitors and over 50 TVs that support FreeSync technology.

It’s also worth pointing out that Nvidia GPUs should also support FreeSync in many cases when plugged in via DisplayPort. Check Nvidia’s list of G-Sync compatible monitors for more information.

Q: Do I need FreeSync if I don’t play video games?

Yes and no. Technically variable refresh rate can improve visual conditions outside of games, particularly in programs that require a lot of computing power. Practically speaking, however, FreeSync is designed to improve the visual fidelity of games. If you aren’t planning on playing many or any games, FreeSync is a nice value add, but you don’t need to worry about it when picking your next monitor.

Q: How does FreeSync compare to G-Sync?

The differences between G-Sync and FreeSync are relatively small. Conventional G-Sync requires manufacturers to build a dedicated chip into the monitor. That conveys some benefits, including lower input lag, a broader variable refresh rate (VRR), and variable overdrive. G-Sync monitors also have a slightly wider refresh rate window, allowing it to stabilize lower framerates. 

That said, FreeSync is cheaper for manufacturers to add and support because it doesn’t require a chip. That means there are more FreeSync monitors out there than G-Sync, including many cheap gaming monitors. However, that gap is closing thanks to Nvidia’s hardware-free “G-Sync Compatible” designation.

Final thoughts on the best FreeSync monitors

If you’re looking to get the most out of every game you play, FreeSync can help keep your games stable and looking their best. Whether you’re playing visually demanding games like God of War or Forza Horizon 5, it can eliminate graphical imperfections like stutter, lag, and tearing for smooth, fluid animations. If you’re using a gaming PC with an AMD GPU, you should definitely make sure your monitors support FreeSync.

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The best Asus monitors of 2023 https://www.popsci.com/gear/best-asus-monitors/ Tue, 21 Jun 2022 18:00:00 +0000 https://www.popsci.com/?p=449960
The best Asus monitors composited
Stan Horaczek

These top Asus monitors deliver great gaming performance with some great options for creatives.

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The best Asus monitors composited
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Best overall The PG32UQ is filled to the brim with high-end specs that will satisfy gamers and non-gamers alike. Asus ROG Swift PG32UQ
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The PG32UQ is filled to the brim with high-end specs that will satisfy gamers and non-gamers alike.

Best for gaming The Asus ROG Strix XG27AQ had just the right specs to make games look awesome for mid- and high-powered gaming PCs. Asus ROG Strix XG27AQ
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The Asus ROG Strix XG27AQ had just the right specs to make games look awesome for mid- and high-powered gaming PCs.

Best 4K The Asus ProArt PA329CV puts color accuracy first for the creatives who need it. Asus ProArt Display PA329CV
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The Asus ProArt PA329CV puts color accuracy first for the creatives who need it.

If you’ve ever shopped for a gaming monitor (or laptop), chances are you’ve encountered Asus. A large computer and peripheral manufacturer, Asus makes all kinds of computing equipment but is especially well-known in PC gaming circles thanks to its two sub-brands: Republic of Gamers and TUF Gaming. Though it isn’t quite as well known, its ProArt also includes some of the best color-accurate displays for creatives. No matter your budget, Asus makes some of the best specialty monitors in every price range. The cream of the crop, the best Asus monitors, includes some of the best PC displays you can find right now.

How we picked the best Asus monitors

As a critic covering games and gaming hardware, I’ve written about computing and monitors for Popular Science, Popular Mechanics, and NBC Select. I’ve researched, tested, and reviewed dozens of gaming monitors, and have a strong sense of which specs are important and which are not.

To pick the best Asus monitors, we relied on my mix of hands-on testing, user recommendations, and information from professional reviews. As Asus’ biggest strength lies in gaming, we mainly focused on specifications crucial to great gaming monitors—resolution, frame rate, connectivity, and price.

The best Asus monitors: Reviews & Recommendations

The best Asus monitors offer impressive resolution and picture quality that will satisfy most gamers and creative pros. Their gaming-focused monitors feature more than enough speed and adjustability to enjoy the latest titles. And though this list features more gaming monitors, Asus’ ProArt displays shouldn’t be overlooked.

Best overall: Asus ROG Swift PG32UQ

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Buy it used or refurbished: Amazon

Why it made the cut: A 4K, 144Hz display with HDMI 2.1 and HDR600, the Asus ROF Swift PG32UQ is a perfect pick for PC and console players who want to see games in their best light.

Specs

  • Size: 32-inch
  • Resolution: 3840 x 2160 (4K)
  • Panel type: IPS
  • Refresh rate: 144Hz (155Hz overclocked)
  • Response time: 1ms
  • Ports: HDMI 2.1 (2), DisplayPort 1.4. USB 3.0, Headphone
  • Ergonomics: Tilt, swivel, height adjustable, VESA mountable
  • Variable refresh rate: G-Sync compatible, FreeSync
  • HDR: HDR600
  • Speakers: 5W (2)

Pros

  • Excellent gaming performance
  • Impressive brightness and HDR
  • HDMI 2.1, DP 1.4

Cons

  • No pivot adjustability
  • Expensive

The ROG Swift PG32UQ has specs to let any high-powered gaming PC push the limits of the latest games. Native 4K resolution and a 144Hz refresh rate pair well with powerful graphics cards. But this monitor’s advanced connectivity set it apart from the competition. The two HDMI 2.1 ports make it one of the best monitors for PS5 and Xbox Series X.

The PG32UQ also offers great colors, contrast, and HDR for a gaming monitor. The occasional Adobe user will be more than happy with this monitor’s impressive brightness and color range. That said, we would emphasize that this is a gaming monitor. The PG32UQ’s just-average local dimming and backlight bleeding, while minor in the grand scheme of things, could interfere with the picture-perfect color reproduction that image and video editors covet.

Best for gaming: Asus ROG Strix XG27AQ

ASUS

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Buy it used or refurbished: Amazon

Why it made the cut: A high refresh rate and wide viewing angles make this monitor fit for intense single-player and multiplayer gaming.

Specs

  • Size: 27-inch
  • Resolution: 2560 x 1440
  • Panel type: IPS
  • Refresh rate: 144Hz (170Hz overclocked)
  • Response time: 1ms
  • Ports: HDMI 2.0 (2), DisplayPort 1.2, headphone
  • Ergonomics: Tilt, swivel, pivot, height adjustable, VESA mountable
  • Variable refresh rate: G-Sync compatible, FreeSync
  • HDR: HDR400
  • Speakers: 2W (2)

Pros

  • 4K resolution
  • Highly adjustable
  • High overclocked refresh rate

Cons

  • Average contrast
  • Low brightness

While it doesn’t reach the highest heights of 4K at 144Hz, the Asus ROG Strix XG27AQ delivers a very sensible 1440p at 144Hz, which should still allow most players to hit the ideal specs for their systems. For players with graphics power to burn, you can overclock the monitor to hit 170Hz, giving you a nice frame rate bump for less resource-intensive esports like League of Legends.

Beyond the panel itself, we like the full ergonomic adjustability of this monitor. Its wide viewing angles also make it a good option for co-op gaming. It could benefit from higher brightness and better contrast, but it still paints a vivid, immersive picture.

If you’re interested in curved monitors, it’s worth noting that there’s a curved version of this display, the ASUS ROG Strix XG32VC.

Best 4K: Asus ProArt Display PA329CV

ASUS

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Buy it used or refurbished: eBay

Why it made the cut: Asus’ ProArt PA329CV has the resolution, color accuracy, and connectivity that creatives need.

Specs

  • Size: 32-inch
  • Resolution: 3840 x 2160 (4K)
  • Panel type: IPS
  • Refresh rate: 60Hz
  • Response time: 5ms
  • Ports: HDMI 2.0 (2), DisplayPort 1.2, USB-C w/90W power delivery, USB-A 3.2 (4), headphone 
  • Ergonomics: Tilt, swivel, pivot, height adjustable, VESA mountable
  • Variable refresh rate: None
  • HDR: HDR10 (400 Nits)
  • Speakers: 2W (2)

Pros

  • High color accuracy
  • Front-facing menu buttons
  • Ample connectivity
  • Charges and connects to a laptop via USB-C

Cons

  • So-so HDR

While we see gaming as Asus’ strong suit when it comes to displays, don’t count out its ProArt creative production monitors, either. The ProArt PA329CV features high accuracy that creates strong color reproduction. Measuring color accuracy is a bit trickier than gaming performance. But the PA329CV has plenty to offer, with 100% sRGB, Delta E < 2, Calman Verified calibration, and more. If that all sounded like gibberish, it means the PA329CV can reproduce color at a higher level than most displays, making it a good fit for artists who need to discern and work with very similar colors and shading.

It’s an especially convenient pick for artists working with a MacBook Pro, or any laptop with a Thunderbolt connection: The PA329CV supports DisplayPort Alt Mode, enabling you to connect your laptop to the display through a Thunderbolt or DP Alt-enabled USB-C port. It also supports 65W charging, enough to power and charge your laptop while it’s connected. (For more on DP Alt Mode, check out our guide to the best USB-C monitors.)

Best ultrawide: Asus ROG Strix XG349C

ASUS

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Buy it used or refurbished: Amazon

Why it made the cut: The 21:9 Asus ROG Strix XG349C is a strong ultrawide gaming monitor that lets you optimize for immersion.

Specs

  • Size: 34-inch
  • Resolution: 3440 x 1440 (21:9)
  • Panel type: IPS
  • Refresh rate: 144Hz (180Hz overclocked)
  • Response time: 1ms
  • Ports: HDMI 2.0 (2), DisplayPort 1.4, USB-C w/18W power delivery, USB-A 3.2 (2), USB 3.0 (2), headphone 
  • Ergonomics: Tilt, swivel, height adjustable, VESA mountable
  • Variable refresh rate: G-Sync compatible, FreeSync
  • HDR: HDR400
  • Speakers: 2W (2)

Pros

  • Immersive 21:9 aspect ratio
  • USB-C peripheral charging
  • 180Hz max refresh rate

Cons

  • Not all games support ultrawide
  • Low brightness

Gamers chasing the most immersive cinematic gameplay experiences may fall in love with a curved ultrawide gaming monitor like the Asus ROG Strix XG349C, which extends your games to the far reaches of your peripheral vision. The 34-inch, 21:9 display delivers a stunning picture and delivers a first-person experience that better simulates your actual field-of-view than a conventional 16:9 display. With HDMI 2.0, DisplayPort 1.4, powered USB-C, and USB-A, you have a whole hub of ports and connections, too.

As with other lists, we feel compelled to warn people who have never tried a curved display that it is a bit of an acquired taste, and we suggest that you try the XG349C or another curved ultrawide monitor before locking in and buying one. That said, if you’re into them, the XG349C is a very solid choice for this specific niche.

Best curved: Asus ProArt PA34VC

ASUS

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Buy it used or refurbished: eBay

Why it made the cut: The Asus ProArt PA34VC is a jack-of-all-trades display for casual creatives, gamers, and home office workers.

Specs

  • Size: 34-inch
  • resolution: 3840 x 2160 (4K)
  • Panel type: IPS
  • Refresh rate: 100Hz
  • Response time: 5ms
  • Ports: Thunderbolt 3 (2) w/60W power delivery, HDMI 2.0 (2), DisplayPort 1.2, USB-A 3.2 (3), headphone
  • Ergonomics: Tilt, swivel, height adjustable, VESA mountable
  • Variable refresh rate: FreeSync
  • HDR: HDR10
  • Speakers: 2W (2)

Pros

  • 4K 21:9 display
  • 100Hz refresh rate and FreeSync
  • Powered Thunderbolt 3 ports

Cons

  • Jack-of-all-trades, master of none

The PA34VC is a unicorn in Asus’ catalog. While most of our recommendations specifically hew towards gaming or creative production, the Asus ProArt PA34VC finds a happy medium between the two. The large, 4K display features 100-percent sRGB support for high color accuracy. The 34-inch curved display helps with productivity for most office tasks. A 100Hz refresh rate plus FreeSync is suitable for casual gaming. Ergonomics and port selection are the PA34VC’s strongest elements, with the standout being two powered Thunderbolt 3 ports.

No one feature falls by the wayside. Everything is just above average. That makes the PA34VC a great fit for someone who does just a little bit of everything. It has neither the advanced color-grading nor the gaming features to satisfy power users in either camp, but it’s a great upgrade for anyone who wants to dabble in both worlds.

Best budget: Asus TUF Gaming VG27AQ

ASUS

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Buy it used or refurbished: eBay

Why it made the cut: This affordable monitor has the gaming specs you need, and none of the pricey extras.

Specs

  • Size: 27-inch
  • Native resolution: 2560 x 1440
  • Panel type: IPS
  • Refresh rate: 144Hz (165Hz overclocked)
  • Response time: 1ms
  • Ports: HDMI 2.0 (2), DisplayPort 1.2, headphone
  • Ergonomics: Tilt, swivel, pivot, height adjustable, VESA mountable
  • Variable refresh rate: G-Sync compatible, FreeSync
  • HDR: HDR10
  • Speakers: 2W (2)

Pros

  • Affordable
  • Fast 1440p screen
  • Ergonomic adjustability

Cons

  • Weak HDR

The Asus TUF Gaming VG27AQ is one of our favorite cheap gaming monitors. For around $350, you get just enough power and performance to tackle any gaming moment.

The screen has just the right specs to make mid- and high-powered systems look sharp. A 27-inch, 1440p screen that maxes out at 144Hz, it’s exactly the kind of monitor most players need. It lacks any specific flourishes, but most gaming monitors get boiled down to core visual specs, anyways. The VG27AQ gives you what you need. No more. No less.

What to consider before buying Asus monitors

Comparison shopping for monitors can get complicated very quickly. Asus’ monitors, like those from most other brands, are differentiated with long model numbers, rather than easily understood names. On top of that, the core specs for monitors can be hard to parse at a glance, especially for people used to shopping in person.

Focusing solely on Asus monitors helps narrow down our options for this list. Still, that doesn’t mean you should buy one of the best gaming monitors or monitors for color grading without understanding why they excel. Let’s go over some essential features that can help you make a choice on your own terms.

Resolution and size

Resolution and size are often thought of as unrelated, but pairing them helps ensure that you get a sharp-looking display without spending more than you need to.

Resolution indicates the number of pixels your monitor can show at once. Generally speaking, the higher your resolution, the more detailed your image gets. As your monitor’s screen gets bigger, however, you’ll need more pixels to achieve the same level of detail. You don’t just want a lot of pixels, you want strong pixel density. 

All of our recommended Asus monitors have a resolution of either 1440p or 4K. Most of the 1440p options have a 27-inch size, while the 4K ones span 32 inches and wider. If you were looking for a smaller 24-inch monitor, we’d recommend stepping down to 1080p to avoid overpaying for an enhanced resolution that you might not fully appreciate on the smaller screen.

Refresh rate

Refresh rate, measured in Hertz (Hz), refers to the number of times your monitor can draw a new image each second. Refresh rate impacts everything that moves on your screen, including your mouse cursor, but it is especially important for gaming. In a game, refresh rate correlates directly to frame rate: A monitor with a higher refresh rate will allow powerful gaming PCs to run at higher frame rates.

For non-gaming monitors, a 60Hz-90Hz frame rate is more than enough to allow for smooth animation in most PC apps. Among gaming monitors, we specifically recommend 144Hz for most players, which allows players with mid- and high-powered systems to play many games with refresh rates well above 60Hz. Competitive players may be interested in stepping up to a 240Hz monitor or higher, but it’s a niche upgrade.

Response time

Response time, which measures the small amount of input lag created by a monitor, is another spec that’s specifically important for gaming. There is always a slight delay between when you press a key on your keyboard, and when that input takes effect on screen. In modern PCs, even basic setups see only milliseconds of lag per input. Though your monitor only injects a very small percentage of whatever lag you experience, competitive players look for any way to react faster and get a jump on their opponents. Thus, response time becomes a key stat differentiating a good gaming monitor from a great one.

Most gaming monitors advertise a very low response time, usually 1 millisecond or less. As with frame rate, competitive players will want the lowest possible response time since even a single frame can be consequential. Most gaming monitors we recommend feature a 1ms response time. Among non-gaming monitors, response time isn’t considered a crucial spec, and you’ll see the number slide up a bit. We’d avoid anything above 5ms, simply because even cheap monitors seem capable of hitting that mark.

Panel type

The physical screen of a monitor, the display panel, comes in three different types: Twisted Nematic (TN), Vertical Alignment (VA), and In-Plane Switching (IPS). Without getting too technical, each one has strengths and weaknesses that impact color accuracy, contrast, and response time. All of our recommendations feature an IPS panel, which manufacturers use most frequently for high-end monitors thanks to their wide view angles, and balance between color gamut, speed, and contrast.

Variable refresh rate

We have one last gaming-centric feature: Variable refresh rate allows your monitor to sync your frame rate with the output of the PC or console to which it is connected. Using it delivers smooth images devoid of any hiccups like screen tearing or visual artifacting.

Gaming monitors rely on one of two variable refresh rate formats, Nvidia G-Sync and AMD FreeSync. These technologies, particularly G-Sync, were designed to pair with graphics cards made by Nvidia and AMD, respectively. That said, there is wide cross-compatibility for the basic elements of the feature.

If you are a gamer or work with video graphics, we recommend buying a monitor with the variable refresh rate technology that matches your GPU. That means G-Sync monitors for Nvidia cards and FreeSync monitors for AMD.

FAQs

Q: How much do Asus monitors cost?

Most of the best Asus monitors cost between $500 and $1,000. However, there are plenty of cheap gaming monitors from the brand that are satisfactory for more casual users.

Q: Which monitor is better: Asus or Acer?

Asus and Acer both have a gamer-focused catalog. But Asus has a wider range of monitor options than Acer, especially in higher price ranges.

Q: Are Asus TUF monitors good?

Asus’ TUF Gaming line includes some of our favorite budget gaming monitors. If you have between $300-$500 to spend, TUF Gaming is a great place to start your search.

Q: Do Asus monitors have cameras?

Most dedicated PC monitors don’t come with built-in webcams. Asus currently makes one model with a webcam, the Asus BE24EQK business monitor. In most cases, we recommend buying the best monitor for your gaming, productivity, or creative needs and attached one of the best webcams. If having your webcam built into your display is important, though, check out our guide to the best monitors with built-in webcams.

Final thoughts on the best Asus monitors

The best Asus monitors are primarily for gamers looking at mid- and high-tier screens with great resolution, refresh rates, and adjustability. All of their top products feature IPS panels, offering good colors and great viewing angles. While we love some of Asus’ ProArt displays, users should look at Asus as a gaming-first manufacturer, at least where monitors are concerned.

The post The best Asus monitors of 2023 appeared first on Popular Science.

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The best cheap gaming monitors of 2023 https://www.popsci.com/reviews/best-cheap-gaming-monitors/ Tue, 07 Dec 2021 18:00:00 +0000 https://www.popsci.com/?p=413966
Best cheap gaming monitors
Mike Epstein

Get your game on while still being able to afford games.

The post The best cheap gaming monitors of 2023 appeared first on Popular Science.

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Best cheap gaming monitors
Mike Epstein

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Best overall Best cheap gaming monitor editors pick ASUS TUF Gaming 27-inch 1440P HDR Gaming Monitor (VG27AQ)
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A 1440p display with a variable 165Hz refresh rate and screen adjustment options? For less than $400? That’s a killer deal.

Best curved monitor Gigabyte G27QC is the best cheap gaming monitor. Gigabyte Curved Gaming Monitor (G27QC A)
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Curved displays are an acquired taste, but the Gigabyte G27QC A has many great qualities for a budget monitor.

Best 4K Monitor BenQ is the best cheap gaming monitor. BenQ 32-inch 4K Monitor (EW3270U)
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Doing 4K right is costly, but the BenQ EW3270U gets you pretty close for less than $400.

Gaming monitors are kind of like cars—they become eye-wateringly expensive the moment you start caring about speed and power. You don’t need to go into debt to get a display that will run games well. Sure, you can pay $3,000 for a monitor. But if you keep your expectations in check, you can also get something that’ll do most of the work for less than $400. We’ll explain what goes into picking the best cheap gaming monitors, including key features and specs, while highlighting some of our favorites.

How we picked the best cheap gaming monitors

The gaming monitor space is flush with solid options, and picking between them can feel like splitting hairs once you narrow down what you want. I’ve been covering both display and graphics card technology for about five years, in addition to building PCs and staying abreast of display technology on my own time. I’ve owned a half-dozen graphics cards and monitors from different manufacturers in that time, each one exhaustively researched before purchase.

To choose our recommendations, we combined technical reviews from multiple sites with our own knowledge of display technology and the current state of the market. In each category, we looked for the sweet spot between key gaming features and specs, with an affordable price for the product. Each of our cheap monitor recommendations costs less than $400, a common dividing line between simple gaming monitors and more feature-rich models.

The best cheap gaming monitors: Reviews & Recommendations

Now that you know the ropes, these are our picks for the best cheap gaming monitors you can get right now. While monitors often feature similar specs, each of these displays has some unique qualities that make it especially well-suited to a certain kind of gaming setup.

Best overall: ASUS TUF Gaming 27-inch 1440P HDR Gaming Monitor (VG27AQ)

Asus

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Why it made the cut: A 1440p display with a variable 165Hz refresh rate and screen adjustment options? For less than $400? That’s a killer deal.

Specs

  • Panel type: IPS
  • Native resolution: 2560 x 1440
  • Refresh rate: 165Hz
  • Response time: 1ms
  • Max brightness: 350 nits
  • Ports: 1 x DisplayPort 1.2; 2 x HDMI 2.0
  • Ergonomics: Tilt, Height, Swivel, VESA 100mm mountable
  • Variable refresh rate: G-Sync Compatible/FreeSync
  • HDR: HDR10

Pros

  • 1440p resolution
  • 165Hz with G-Sync and FreeSync compatibility
  • Height, tilt and swivel adjustments

Cons

  • Weak HDR

The Asus TUF Gaming 27-inch VG27AQ display has just about everything you could want from a low-to-mid-range gaming monitor making it our pick for the best cheap gaming overall. It supports a 165Hz refresh rate, compatibility with both major adaptive sync technologies, a good loadout of ports and, perhaps most remarkably, a full suite of adjustment options that include height, tilt, and swivel. It also supports HDR, which is great, but it lacks the brightness to really make the feature pop. Still, this is a robust offering from Asus, a reliable manufacturer, so this is as close to the complete package as you’ll see in this price range.

Best curved: Gigabyte 27-inch Curved Gaming Monitor (G27QC A)

Why it made the cut: Curved displays are an acquired taste, but the Gigabyte G27QC A has many great qualities for the best curved gaming monitor on a budget.

Specs

  • Panel type: VA
  • Native resolution: 2560 x 1440
  • Refresh rate: 165Hz
  • Response time: 1 ms
  • Max brightness: 250 nits
  • Ports: 1 x DisplayPort 1.2; 2 x HDMI 2.0; 2 x USB 3.0
  • Ergonomics: Tilt & height, VESA 100mm mountable
  • Variable refresh rate: Freesync, G-Sync Compatible
  • HDR: HDR10

Pros

  • Great contrast thanks to the VA panel
  • Strong refresh rate and response time
  • Lots of ports

Cons

  • Limited ergonomics
  • Not very bright

Gigabyte’s gaming monitors are popping up on more and more monitor buying lists, and for good reason. The G27QC A features a 1500R curvature on a VA panel that handles reflection better than many other curved displays. Meanwhile, it offers a robust feature set that includes a fast refresh rate, variable refresh rate options, and a couple of USB ports. It’s a strong package for any curved display fan.

Best ultrawide: AOC CU34G2X 34″ Curved Frameless Immersive Gaming Monitor

AOC

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Why it made the cut: Ultrawide monitors usually aren’t cheap, but this AOC display will give you a chance to experience the magic for a reasonable price.

Specs

  • Panel type: VA
  • Native resolution: 3440 x 1440
  • Refresh rate: 144Hz
  • Response time: 1ms
  • Max brightness: 300 nits
  • Ports: 2 x DisplayPort 1.2; 2 x HDMI 2.0
  • Ergonomics: Up and down, VESA 75mm mountable
  • Variable refresh rate: Adaptive-Sync
  • HDR: No

Pros

  • Inexpensive compared to most ultrawide displays
  • Curved is a good fit for Ultra-wide
  • VA Panel offers great contrast
  • Fast response time
  • Fast refresh rate

Cons

  • Barebones–No USB, no HDR

Ultrawide monitors offer lots of extra screen space, but that typically comes at a much higher cost. This curved AOC model, however, checks in well under $400 and offers some very solid specs for gamers. You won’t get the top tier stuff like HDR or HDMI 2.1. But, it does provide a solid 3,440 x 1,440 resolution and a 144Hz refresh rate. It supports Adaptive-Sync for variable refresh rates. And its response rate is just 1ms, which is quicker than most budget gaming monitors in its class. Our previous pick in this category checked in at a chunky 8ms.

If you want to do some creative work between gaming sessions, this display supports more than 100 percent of the sRGB color space and 98 percent of the Adobe RGB color space. The mounting system isn’t the most flexible we’ve ever seen, but it does allow the monitor to move up and down to match your eye line. In short, this is a ton of monitor for a very impressive price.

Best high-refresh: Asus TUF VG259 24.5-inch Gaming Monitor (VG259QM)

Why it made the cut: The Asus TUF Gaming VG259QM maxes out on frame rate, with fewer compromises than most similarly-priced monitors.

Specs

  • Panel type: IPS
  • Native resolution: 1920 x 1080
  • Refresh rate: 144Hz, Overclock to 280Hz
  • Response time: 1ms
  • Max brightness: 400 nits
  • Ports: 1 x DisplayPort 1.2; 2 x HDMI 2.0
  • Ergonomics: Tilt, Height, Swivel, VESA 100mm mountable
  • Variable refresh rate: G-Sync Compatible/Freesync
  • HDR: DisplayHDR 400

Pros

  • 280Hz refresh with overclock options
  • Adaptive sync compatibility
  • Full suite of ergonomic adjustments

Cons

  • 24.5-inch display is pretty small these days

As the best cheap high-refresh gaming monitor, the Asus TUF Gaming VG259QM is the smallest monitor on this list, but it has something the others don’t. With a lightning-fast 280Hz, it is a perfect panel for players looking to maximize their competitive edge in games like League of Legends and DOTA 2. It also supports HDR, though it is only DisplayHDR 400 certified, which isn’t great. Still, this is a monitor for players who are willing to give up some visual fidelity and screen real estate for an extra microsecond against an opponent, so HDR is really just icing on the cake.

Best 4K monitor for under $400: BenQ 32-inch 4K Monitor (EW3270U)

BenQ

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Why it made the cut: Doing 4K right is costly, but the BenQ EW3270U gets you pretty close for less than $400.

Specs

  • Panel type: VA
  • Native resolution: 3840 x 2160
  • Refresh rate: 60Hz
  • Response time: 1ms
  • Max brightness: 300 nits
  • Ports: 1 x DisplayPort 1.4; 2 x HDMI 2.0; 1 x USB Type-C
  • Ergonomics: None; VESA 100 mountable
  • Variable Refresh Rate: FreeSync/G-Sync Compatible
  • HDR: HDR10

Pros

  • Great color coverage
  • Less expensive than competitors
  • USB-C port

Cons

  • No ergonomic options

As with ultrawide gaming monitors, your options for the best 4K gaming monitors are extremely limited if you’re trying to keep your budget down. The 32-inch BenQ EW3270U, one of the few 4K monitors available at this price point, maxes out at a merely acceptable 60Hz and 300 nits. On the plus side, it’s a big screen, offers great color reproduction, and has a USB-C port, none of which are common features on a budget monitor. 

The bottom line: You have to compromise a lot for a 4K monitor if you can’t spend upwards of $500. You’re probably better off going with something lower-res, but you won’t have a bad time, either.

Best for PS5/Xbox: Gigabyte 27-inch gaming monitor (M27Q)

Why it made the cut: Getting the most out of a PlayStation 5 or Xbox Series X requires a powerful monitor, but this works well and is very affordable.

Specs

  • Panel type: IPS
  • Native resolution: 2550 x 1440
  • Refresh rate: 170Hz
  • Response time: .5ms
  • Max brightness: 400 nits
  • Ports: 1 x DisplayPort 1.2; 2 x HDMI 2.0; 1 x USB Type-C
  • Ergonomics: Height, Tilt
  • Variable refresh rate: FreeSync
  • HDR: DisplayHDR 400

Pros

  • Multiple HDMI ports
  • USB-C
  • Adjustable height and tilt

Cons

  • No HDMI 2.1

Traditionally, TVs are for consoles and gaming monitors are for PCs, but there’s nothing stopping us from plugging your PlayStation, Xbox, or Switch into a gaming monitor. That said, the new consoles make some pretty serious demands in terms of display technology: Ideally, you want a 4K, 120Hz display with HDR10 and an HDMI 2.1 port. Generally speaking, that’s going to cost you more than $400.

Within our chosen price point, our main requirements were having two HDMI ports, some level of HDR, and a high refresh rate. The Gigabyte M27Q doesn’t have everything we want in a console display but it gets the job done without spending extra for features you won’t use if you’re focused on console gaming making it the best cheap gaming monitor for the PS5/Xbox.

Things to consider before buying the best cheap gaming monitors

Picking out a gaming monitor can be genuinely confusing. There are thousands of monitors on the market, with hundreds of so-called gaming monitors among them. Manufacturers often use confusing metrics to make their gear sound impressive, or proprietary technologies that may or may not actually impact your day-to-day experience. Here’s a rundown of some specs and features that we consider important, especially when you’re buying a cheap gaming monitor.

Resolution and size

It turns out that picking the two most basic aspects of your monitor, its screen size and resolution, are inherently linked. Rather than treating them as two aspects to pick and choose from, you should consider them together.

When discussing size, we’re talking about the monitor’s physical dimensions—the height and width of the screen itself, measured in inches. Resolution refers to how many pixels that display shows. This is measured by the vertical and horizontal numbers of pixels, such as 1920 x 1080. As with TVs, monitor resolutions are usually referenced by their height, such as 1080p (1920 x 1080) and 1440p (2560 x 1440). The paradigm switches to the resolution width shortened for larger sizes like 4K (3840 x 2160) and 8K (7680 x 4320).

If you buy a very large monitor but have a lower resolution—such as a 43-inch display with 1080p resolution, for an extreme example—you’ll end up with a blurry image when sitting at your desk. This works for televisions, but not for monitors. However, if you buy a 27-inch monitor with a 4K resolution display, that screen is so small for that resolution that you’ll miss out on the additional detail and make your graphics card do extra work that you don’t benefit from.

Here’s an easy rule of thumb for picking your display resolution based on monitor size:

  • Anything less than 27 inches—1080p is fine.
  • Anything around 27-30 inches—1440p is the sweet spot.
  • Anything 31 inches or more—You should be looking at 4K if possible.

That said, size is not the only factor in play when choosing a max screen resolution. Ultimately, your PC—specifically your GPU—will determine what resolution and settings you can use for each game. If you’re rocking an Nvidia GTX 1050 Ti graphics card, you won’t be playing games in 4K, even if you have a 4K monitor. Since a large display will look blurry at a lower resolution, this means your GPU also caps the size of the monitor you should buy.

The bottom line:  Don’t spend extra money on monitors with specs you can’t use (unless you’re also planning to upgrade your gaming PC in the near future). Make sure to look at which model of graphics card you have and what kind of games you like to play to see if they’re a good match for the screen resolution you want.

Refresh rate

For many players, a gaming monitor’s refresh rate is just as important as its resolution. Refresh rate, measured in Hertz (Hz), refers to the number of times your monitor can draw and redraw what’s happening on your computer screen each second. Your monitor’s refresh rate, along with your gaming PC or console’s specs, determine the maximum possible frame rate at which your games will be able to run.

Depending on what kinds of games you play and your gaming PC or console’s specs, many games seek to run at 30, 60, or 120 frames per second. Many PC games also allow for an unlocked frame rate, incentivizing you to get a monitor with the highest possible refresh rate. Unlike size and resolution, there is no disincentive for purchasing a monitor with an aspirational refresh rate (other than spending more money than you need to).

Even if you’re shopping for a cheap gaming monitor, most players should look for a display with a 144Hz refresh rate, the most common option just above 120Hz. This will allow you to play most games at high frame rates, even in competitive games, where a split-second can be the difference between winning and losing. Going past around 165Hz, you’ll begin to see diminishing returns (and somewhat degraded image quality). These ultra-high refresh displays usually get their fast refresh by pushing displays into an “overdrive” mode that asks more of the pixels than intended by the panel maker. If you’re planning to use the screen just for work, 60Hz is just fine.

Variable refresh rate

Historically, monitors (and televisions) have operated at specific frequencies—the number of times per second that the image will refresh. The monitors you use at work or that came with your first computer probably run at the standard 60Hz frequency, refreshing 60 times per second.

This is great for movies and television, which have preset frame rates, but terrible for games. Game developers work to keep frame rates consistent, but they don’t always stay that way. When a game’s frame rate fluctuates, that causes your graphics card to try to pass video frames to your monitor at uneven rates. This can result in screen tearing or dropped frames. Variable Refresh Rate technology, in short, gets your monitor and graphics card in sync. Instead of the graphics card having to wait for the monitor to be ready for an image, the two talk to each other, and the monitor can refresh when an image is passed to it, making for a smoother image when gaming.

There are two proprietary variable refresh rate technologies used in most gaming monitors tied to the two major graphics card manufacturers: Nvidia G-Sync and AMD FreeSync. G-Sync is a hardware-enabled system that theoretically rewards players who pair an Nvidia GPU in your PC and a “G-Sync certified” monitor with special hardware. FreeSync, a purely software-based option, is more common, but less regulated. That said, many monitors support both FreeSync and G-Sync, even if they aren’t specifically certified.

Ultimately, a certified G-Sync monitor is a nice cherry on top for a monitor if your PC sports an Nvidia GPU, but isn’t necessary, especially in this price range. In most cases, it’s enough to look and simply note what GPU you have and buy a monitor that supports your system.

Response time

A less scrutinized spec, response time refers to how quickly the pixels in a display can change, which also affects how quickly and smoothly your games animate. Response time is trickier to track than refresh rate, as manufacturers do not adhere to a single standard for measuring it. Some measure black-to-white, some black-to-white-to-black, and yet others measure from one shade of gray to another.

Many manufacturers approximate monitor response times—they’ll say “1ms.” Due to the ways different makers judge this statistic, though, it’s always good to search for the model of monitor you’re interested in, along with the word “ghosting,” to see if other users are struggling with issues caused by poor response time, including after images and image smearing.

Panel type

There are three types of display panels: Twisted Nematic (TN), Vertical Alignment (VA), and In-Plane Switching (IPS). Each display has its strengths and weaknesses. A TN display will typically have the fastest refresh, but weaker color reproduction and viewing angles. IPS displays have the best color reproduction, but comparatively poor contrast. VA displays have the best black levels of the three types of display panels and match the wider viewing angles of IPS displays. They have slightly slower response time and color gamut compared to IPS, though still much better color than a TN panel.

While TN displays are technically the fastest, most players prefer IPS and VA panels, which can handle fast refresh rates and response times well enough, while offering a better overall picture. All of our picks feature IPS or VA panels.

Brightness, color depth, and HDR

High-dynamic range, or HDR, is a display technology that allows for more nuanced levels of brightness and color depth in a display picture. In video games, it is most frequently used to enhance visuals through better lighting, and allowing a wider range of dark spaces. (For example, HDR makes it possible to replicate that fuzzy feeling of seeing in the dark in a cave or poorly lit room).

With TVs, where the technology is more common, there are two HDR standards: HDR10 and DolbyVision. With monitors, HDR is less common and more segmented. Some monitors support HDR10. Others support various DisplayHDR levels, which refer directly to the monitor’s maximum brightness, measured in nits or cd/m². Many of our top picks technically support HDR, but don’t get bright enough to really show off the feature.

In general, we recommend players looking to prioritize HDR monitors to look for an HDR10-compatible monitor with a maximum brightness of 1000 nits or higher, or one with an official DisplayHDR 1000 rating. 

FAQs

Q: Is G-Sync or FreeSync better?

If you have an Nvidia graphics card, hardware-based G-Sync typically offers the smoothest, most stable variable refresh rate. The choice gets much trickier when you’re picking between AMD FreeSync and software-based G-Sync, which you’ll find with most of the picks on this list. Both services can have some quirks and vary from monitor to monitor. Ultimately, both versions work well on any officially compatible display.

Q: Is flat or curved better?

If you’re the only person who uses your PC and you plan to rock a single-monitor setup, a curved display can create a more immersive gaming experience. It can also catch light from more angles, though. A curved monitor is somewhat of an acquired taste. It isn’t for everyone, but the people who try it and like it tend to prefer it over a standard flat panel.

Q: Are cheap 144Hz monitors worth it?

Absolutely. A 144Hz display can show up to 144 individual images per second. Despite what some people will argue on forums, the human eye can discern the difference between 30, 60, and 144 frames per second. If you play games frequently and have a moderately powerful graphics card, a 144 Hz display will allow for smoother animation and better-looking games.

Q: Is 4K resolution worth it?

Making the jump to 4K on a gaming PC can be tricky … and expensive. You need a graphics card—such as an Nvidia RTX 2080, 3070, or higher—to run games at 4K resolution. You should also be prepared to spend a good amount of money on a 4K monitor no smaller than 32 inches. If you have an otherwise mid-range system, or would prefer a smaller screen, you probably should hold off on upgrading to 4K.

Q: What about OLED panels?

Organic light-emitting diode, or OLED, displays make for gorgeous screens thanks to the technology’s ability to light individual pixels. OLED panels are more commonly used for TVs and smartphones than PC monitors, though. In addition to being expensive, they are susceptible to long-term screen burn-in, which would severely limit their lifespan.

The final word on the best cheap gaming monitors

Finding a very good monitor for less than $400 isn’t as hard as you might think. There are tons of options, so sorting through them to find the best can be tough, but there are also lots of great choices. 

That said, there are also some very tight limitations on what you can and cannot get on the cheap. You’ll have to make some serious compromises to get a 4K or ultrawide monitor. Likewise, the new consoles will probably fare better on a 4K television. But if you’re interested in a 1440p monitor with a high refresh rate—often considered the current sweet spot for modern graphics cards—the world is your oyster.

The post The best cheap gaming monitors of 2023 appeared first on Popular Science.

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Best TVs for gaming of 2023 https://www.popsci.com/reviews/best-tvs-for-gaming/ Fri, 18 Feb 2022 18:00:00 +0000 https://www.popsci.com/?p=425457
Best TVs for gaming
Stan Horaczek

PS5, Xbox Series X, Nintendo Switch, PC ... They'll all look great on these big, beautiful screens.

The post Best TVs for gaming of 2023 appeared first on Popular Science.

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Best TVs for gaming
Stan Horaczek

We may earn revenue from the products available on this page and participate in affiliate programs. Learn more ›

Best for PS5 Best TVs for gaming Sony Bravia XR A90J
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The Sony A90J is an amazing OLED option with a couple little PlayStation-specific tricks up its sleeve.

Best overall The LG C2 OLED TV LG C2
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This update improves on an already beloved TV.

Best for Xbox Best TVs for Gaming Samsung QN90A Neo QLED
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The Samsung QN90A has all the right gaming features for Xbox fans … or anyone not convinced into OLED displays.

If you play video games, buying a TV with gaming in mind is more important than ever. With the launch of the PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series X, video game consoles have the processing power to run games that look sharper, brighter, and more vibrant at smoother frame rates. While you can play games on any TV with an HDMI port, there are a series of specs that you need to get the most out of those powerful consoles. Simply picking the best 4K TV isn’t necessarily enough. Let’s talk about what makes the best TVs for gaming and look at some of the best options you can buy right now.

How we picked the best TVs for gaming

Prior to joining Popular Science, I’ve written about the gaming industry and technology for nearly 10 years at a variety of publications, including IGN, Gamespot, GamesRadar, PCMag, and Digital Trends. In other words, I have been playing video games professionally for a long time. More specifically, I covered the rise of the first 4K/HDR-compatible consoles—the Xbox One X and PS4 Pro—and spent a good deal of time learning how to tell the difference between a good video game screen and a great one.

To pick the best TVs for gaming, I relied on a combination of hands-on testing and viewing, combined with professional reviews and critical analysis. We’re currently evaluating the latest TV models as they arrive.

What to look for when buying a TV for gaming, specifically

The basics of picking a gaming TV aren’t that different from picking a TV in general. Many of the basic requirements, like picking the right size for your space, do not change because you have a controller in your hand. Likewise, many of the super-technical aspects, such as wide color gamut and good viewing angles, are incredibly important for picking any TV.

There is, however, a set of specs that the average TV buyer might overlook or consider to be relatively minor that makes all the difference when buying a TV with gaming in mind. Everyone knows that they want the biggest, sharpest, and brightest TV out there, but are you thinking about your TV’s refresh rate, as you would with a gaming monitor for your PC? What about brightness, which dictates your TV’s ability to take advantage of High-Dynamic Range (HDR)? These are not things you’ll see just by walking into a big box store and staring at the wall of TVs, so it’s important to have to go a little deeper so that you can pick your next TV with clarity and confidence.

Resolution

Let’s start with the easy part. If you have PlayStation 5, Xbox Series X, or Xbox One X, you want a 4K TV. Even if you don’t have a 4K-capable console, like the Xbox Series S or Nintendo Switch, you likely still want a 4K TV, because some consoles feature supersampling technology that can enhance a game’s fidelity without taking the resolution a full step higher. 

Luckily, we’ve reached the point where most new TVs are 4K TVs, so you’re covered no matter what you get unless you’re shopping in the very low-end models. And though Sony and Microsoft have said the current consoles have the power to run games in 8K, it is not possible to do so yet and adoption is moving very slowly, so we do not recommend spending an absurd amount of money on tech you won’t be able to use for the foreseeable future.

Backlight type

The big question, with regards to visual fidelity, is what kind of display technology should you look for in your gaming TV. At this juncture, it mostly comes down to three major categories: LED, or “light-emitting diode”; OLED, or “organic light-emitting diode”; and QLED, or “Quantum dot … yeah, you get it.” We have a full-length explanation running down the differences among all three technologies, so I’m going to give you the short version.

As you can see by the names, all three versions are variations on LED technology, which runs electricity through a power cell to emit light. A standard LED TV does this uniformly for the whole screen using a backlight array that shines through an LCD panel. High-end QLED displays augment that basic LED technology by adding dots on the display that enhance the brightness of the backlight, allowing for a brighter screen and sharper, more precise colors. These TVs fit into a category called “transmissive” because they rely on a backlight shining through colored filters. 

Despite the name, OLED TVs are something of a different breed called emissive TVs. They feature a large number of small diodes that individually light up to illuminate the screen rather than relying on an LCD panel. This allows the display to turn individual lights on and off, allowing for a wider range of brightness and the darkest possible blacks.

With the options currently out there, OLED is, generally speaking, the superior display type for gaming. It allows for the best use of HDR, which creates an array of different in-game lighting conditions. QLED also enhances this to a degree, at least in theory. Generally speaking, OLED and QLED sets sit at the top of the TV food chain right now, so we’re basically just saying, “The good TVs? Yeah, they’re really good.” The important thing to note here is that, all things being equal, gamers should go for an OLED over other types of TVs.

Also, for the vast majority of people who aren’t spending $1,000 to $2,000 on a TV, there is nothing wrong or bad about playing games on an LED TV. OLED and even QLED simply provide some extra advantages.

High-Dynamic Range (HDR)

High-Dynamic Range, or HDR, is a display technology that allows your TV to create a wider range of lighting conditions on screen by making different parts of your screen brighter than others. The actual “range” refers to the difference between the brightest white and the darkest black. My favorite example is walking into a cave or other unlit space: Without HDR, games have to choose by making you unable to see and pretending that the cave is magically lit, but colored darker. With HDR, games can actually simulate that grainy, textured low-light look of peering into the dark.

On TVs, there are two primary HDR standards: HDR10 and the more exclusive Dolby Vision. Experts say that Dolby Vision ultimately produces a better picture, but there is relatively little content for it. Both Xbox Series consoles and PS5 support HDR10, but only the Xboxes support Dolby Vision. Even on Xbox, though, only a small fraction of games from the past two generations support it. Luckily, every modern TV supports HDR10, so you don’t have to choose. If you play games primarily on Xbox, you may want to go the extra mile of looking for a Dolby Vision-capable set.

Regardless of standard, though, not all HDR is created equal. The technology relies on brightening the TV to different degrees, so it’s very important that your TV actually gets bright enough to do that. Ideally, you want a TV whose maximum brightness is 1000 NITS or higher to ensure optimum performance.

Input lag and “Gaming Mode”

In the menus of most modern TVs, you’ll find options for different display modes, including an option specifically for playing games. Generally speaking, TV gaming modes remove certain processing elements to reduce the amount of time it takes for the TV to process what’s happening on screen, which reduces input lag.

Input lag, or latency, is a gap in time between when you press a button on your controller and when the action occurs on screen. There is always some amount of input lag because your console or computer needs to process your inputs and send them to the screen, but it should be imperceivable in ideal conditions. If you sometimes feel like you press a button at a precise time, but you miss your window, that may have been because of a lag issue.

Of course, cutting down on image processing impacts picture quality. Most experts agree that using gaming mode only leads to a noticeable drop in picture quality in extreme cases. Still, just like there is no such thing as a lag-free experience, there is no way for a TV to reduce lag without a tradeoff. As I mentioned, the actual processing that gets turned off in game mode varies from brand to brand and may vary from TV to TV depending on what features you have.

Obviously, this list will avoid TVs with notorious input lag and/or game mode issues, but if you’re thinking about whether or not to use “game mode,” just try it and see. The worst-case scenario is that you don’t notice a difference in how you play and you turn it off.

Refresh rate

Refresh rate-related features are the hottest new features in TVs right now and they’re making waves because of video games. Refresh rate, a core feature in gaming monitors for PCs, represents the number of times your TV can redraw the entirety of the screen to reflect a change in what it’s showing each second. For video games, it effectively translates to the maximum frame rate your TV can handle: If it maxes out at 60 Hertz (Hz), as most TVs made before 2020 do, that means your TV can output at up to 60 frames per second.

The PlayStation 5 and Xbox Series consoles have the ability to run some games at up to 120 frames per second, but in order for you to actually see that, you will need a TV with a 120Hz refresh rate. We’ve noticed an uptick in interest in monitors for PS5 and for Xbox Series X, and I imagine that the frame rate gap is part of the reason why.

TV manufacturers are already responding; at CES 2022, most of the major manufacturers showcased new 120Hz TVs. It’s still a high-end feature, but something that we expect will filter down into new sets over the next few years.

In addition to higher refresh rates, TV manufacturers are also starting to support adaptive sync technology into TVs. Adaptive sync, or variable refresh rate, is a display technology in monitor hardware and software that allows your screen to adjust its target frame rate to match the computing power of the device delivering its image. This minimizes input lag and prevents some display glitches like screen tearing, a visual distortion where two frames of animation overlap.

There are two versions of adaptive sync: Nvidia G-Sync and AMD FreeSync. As with gaming monitors, you’re more likely to find TVs with FreeSyncs support than G-Sync, though some TVs can play with both standards. Outside of PC, the only consoles that support adaptive sync are the Xbox Series and Xbox One consoles. There have been rumors about Sony adding adaptive sync support to the PS5, but it is not available now.

HDMI 2.0 and 2.1

If you want to play a game in 4K at 120 frames per second, you will need to plug your TV into an HDMI 2.1 port. Despite the fact that it’s generally treated as a single, ubiquitous port, there are many versions of HDMI. The ports all look the same and newer ones are always backward-compatible so you’re never asked to throw out cords if you get a TV with newer ports, so most people wouldn’t even notice until you’re locked out of using a feature.

As we explain in our best HDMI cables roundup, newer HDMI standards can transmit more data per second than older versions, which roughly translates to a resolution and frame rate for TV, film, and games. The most common port you’ll find now is HDMI 1.4, sometimes called “high-speed HDMI,” which can output in 4K at 30Hz: That’s what you need to watch TV and movies in 4K. To play games in 4K at 60Hz, you need HDMI 2.0, aka “HDMI UHD,” which can handle 4K resolution at 60Hz with HDR10. The highest standard is HDMI 2.1 or “Ultra High-Speed HDMI,” which unlocks 4K at 120Hz or 8K at 60Hz.

As you may expect, both the PS5 and Xbox Series X support HDMI 2.1 out of the box. But to use the consoles at their highest level of performance, you will need a TV with the same. At the start of 2023, that’s pretty rare, but the coming wave of 120Hz TVs will generally come equipped with HDMI 2.1 ports to match their high refresh rates.

The best TVs for gaming: Reviews & Recommendations

So now that we’ve covered all the ways picking a “gaming TV” differs from picking a TV for watching TV and film, it’s time to get to the good part. Based on our testing and research, these are the best TVs for gaming you can pick up right now. We’ve done our best to provide you with some options based on criteria you may have, including what high-end console you have and display technology. All of these TVs, though, should provide you with the features you need to make your games look great.

Best overall: LG C2

Why it made the cut: The LG C2 checks all the gaming TV boxes, offering a sharp, bright OLED with a high refresh rate.

Specs

  • Sizes: 42, 48, 55, 65, 77, and 83 inches
  • Display Type: OLED
  • Refresh Rate: 120Hz
  • Adaptive Sync: FreeSync, G-Sync
  • Ports: HDMI 2.1 x 4, USB-A x 3,
  • HDR: HDR10, Dolby Vision

Pros

  • Wide size range
  • Sharp, vibrant picture
  • High refresh rate with adaptive sync support
  • Four HDMI 2.1 ports
  • OLED evo improves brightness over previous models

Cons

  • Low brightness compared to similar QLED models

Everybody loved the LG C1. Users and professional reviewers almost universally considered it the best TV for gaming, pound-for-pound. Now, LG has replaced the C1 with the new C2 and it brings with it the company’s OLED evo panel. It maintains everything that makes OLED great, like crisp, detailed picture with deep black levels and untouchable contrast ratios. The evo panels, however, increase the overall brightness by up to 20 percent. That helps negate one of the big advantages QLED panels offer over OLED displays. It supports every popular flavor of HDR, including Dolby Vision and HDR10. Plus, the new generation processor improves the TV’s ability to upscale content that doesn’t match up to its native 4K display. It will still cost you a little more than the QLED equivalent, but the upgraded picture quality makes that extra cash feel worth it.

Best for PS5: Sony Bravia XR A90J

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Why it made the cut: The Sony A90J doesn’t have every single gaming-focused feature, but it has all the stuff PS5 fans need making it the best gaming tv for PS5.

Specs

  • Sizes: 55, 65, and 83 inches
  • Display Type: OLED
  • Refresh Rate: 120Hz
  • Adaptive Sync: N/A
  • Ports: HDMI 2.1 x 2, HDMI x 2, USB-A x 3,
  • HDR: HDR10, Dolby Vision

Pros

  • OLED with Incredible color and contrast
  • High refresh rate
  • HDR and Dolby Vision
  • Reportedly brighter than LG C1

Cons

  • No variable refresh rate

The Sony Bravia XR A90J was the company’s flagship OLED in 2021 and it delivers an absolutely incredible picture. Like the LG C1, it offers incredible vibrant colors and the signature “perfect” blacks of an OLED display. In general, I find Sony tends to be the “upgrade” brand—you have to pay extra for their stuff, but you get what you pay for. For multiplatform gaming, the A90J falters because it lacks adaptive sync support and only two out of four HDMI ports support HDMI 2.1. Luckily, the PlayStation 5 currently doesn’t support adaptive sync, so that’s no loss for PS5 players. And, if you’re locked in on a single 4K console, chances are you don’t need more than two HDMI 2.1 ports. 

Plus, it is one of a handful of new Sony Bravia XR TVs that supports a series of “perfect for PlayStation 5” features, including Auto HDR tone mapping, which automatically calibrates your HDR, and “auto genre picture mode,” which switches between standard mode and lag-reducing “game mode” whenever you turn on a game or start watching a movie or TV.

Best for Xbox Series X: Samsung QN90A NEO QLED

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Why it made the cut: While it isn’t an OLED, Samsung’s QN90A offers incredible color and contrast, along with most of the key gaming features.

Specs:

  • Sizes: 43, 50, 55, 65, 75, 85, and 98 inches
  • Display Type: QLED
  • Refresh Rate: 120Hz
  • Adaptive Sync: FreeSync
  • Ports: HDMI 2.1 x 1, HDMI x 3, USB-A x 2,
  • HDR: HDR10

Pros

  • Mini-LED-powered QLED TV delivers incredible brightness and strong contrast
  • 120Hz with FreeSync
  • Absolutely incredible size range

Cons

  • No Dolby Vision
  • One HDMI 2.1 port

While we generally recommend an OLED display for gamers, all things being equal, Samsung’s QN90A NEO QLED is a reminder that there’s an exception to every rule. Samsung’s highly touted flagship Neo QLED TV features Mini-LED TV and local dimming, allowing for tremendous brightness that you won’t find on OLED screens while offering highly precise color. Of course, it also has all the gaming-focused features we want to see—including an HDMI 2.1-powered 120Hz refresh rate and AMD FreeSync, which the Xbox One and Series consoles support. It isn’t a perfect fit, as Samsung TVs don’t support Dolby Vision, but given the small amount of natively supported content, we chose to prioritize the best picture, even at the expense of a minor, feature-related blemish.

Best budget 4K: TCL 6-Series Google TV (R646)

TCL

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Why it made the cut: The TCL 6-Series is arguably the best television under $1,000 right now and the new Google TV adds additional, gaming-friendly features.

Specs

  • Sizes: 55, 65, and 75 inches
  • Display Type: QLED
  • Refresh Rate: 120Hz
  • Adaptive Sync: Yes (Not FreeSync or G-Sync)
  • Ports: HDMI 2.1 x 2, HDMI x 2, USB-A x 1,
  • HDR: HDR10, Dolby Vision

Pros

  • High refresh rate
  • HDR10 and Dolby Vision
  • Comparatively affordable

Cons

  • Adaptive sync doesn’t support industry standards

It should come as no surprise that TCL, a brand well known for its really strong budget and mid-range smart TVs, offers the best value in gaming TV for under $1,000. The TCL 6-Series is a crowd-pleaser, offering a bright QLED picture and 120Hz refresh rate. The newest version of the 6-Series, which features Google TV instead of Roku’s smart TV operating system, adds two HDMI 2.1 ports and, reportedly, improved picture quality, making it the superior option for top-of-the-line gaming setups.

It does come with some tradeoffs, of course: While it supports adaptive sync, TCL isn’t officially compatible with FreeSync or G-Sync, so its variable refresh rate may not be as reliable as other choices. That said, you are getting most of the things we look for in a gaming TV for substantially less than most of our top picks.

Best OLED TV (besides our top pick): LG G1

Why it made the cut: The LG G1 may actually be a slightly better TV than the LG C1, even if its high price keeps it out of the top spot.

Specs

  • Sizes: 55, 65, and 77 inches
  • Display Type: OLED
  • Refresh Rate: 120Hz
  • Adaptive Sync: FreeSync, G-Sync Compatible
  • Ports: HDMI 2.1 x 4, USB-A x 3,
  • HDR: HDR10, Dolby Vision

Pros

  • Incredible picture
  • Brighter than C1
  • High refresh rate with FreeSync and G-Sync
  • 4 HDMI 2.1 ports

Cons

  • More expensive than top pick, despite only a minor upgrade

The LG C1, our top pick, is realistically the best OLED TV you can buy right now, but did you know that LG makes more than one OLED model? If you’ve done some research already, you’ve probably heard of the slightly brighter, but substantially more expensive LG G1. It has everything the LG C1 has: sharp, vibrant colors; that OLED brightness control; the high refresh rate with FreeSync and G-Sync compatibility. According to reviewers, it even goes a step further and amps up the brightness over the C1, mitigating its primary technical weakness. As at other publications, the G1 fails to earn the best overall rating because that little extra touch of brightness will cost you a few hundred dollars on top of an already steep price. While it isn’t as financially efficient for TV buyers, the G1 is an excellent TV if the C1 isn’t available.

Best LED: Sony Bravia XR X90J

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Why it made the cut: Even without an OLED panel, the Sony Bravia XR X90J offers an incredible picture and all of Sony’s great suite of gaming-focused features.

Specs:

  • Sizes: 50, 55, 65, and 75 inches
  • Display Type: LED
  • Refresh Rate: 120Hz
  • Adaptive Sync: FreeSync
  • Ports: HDMI 2.1 x 2, HDMI x 2, USB-A x 2,
  • HDR: HDR10

Pros

  • Very bright picture w/ local dimming
  • High refresh rate w/ FreeSync

Cons

  • Expensive for standard LED TV

The Sony Bravia XR X90J, for a “standard” LED TV, sure seems to check all the boxes. Its high brightness ensures that you get bold, vibrant colors and maximized HDR in your TV, movies, and games. It features the same great suite of gaming features as its OLED counterpart, the Bravia XR A90J, including Sony’s “perfect for PlayStation” configuration options. While it doesn’t achieve the same contrast as the OLEDs on this list, it goes toe to toe with those TVs in many ways … including the price.

FAQs

Q: Should I use a TV for PC gaming?

Since modern graphics cards feature HDMI ports, there’s no reason why you couldn’t or shouldn’t plug your gaming PC into your TV and play them on your biggest screen. If you’re used to a traditional PC setup, remember that you’ll need to either figure out a way to use a mouse and keyboard on your couch or play with a controller. Also, keep in mind how changing screens might impact your PC’s performance. If you use a 1080p or 1440p gaming monitor, running games in 4K will be more demanding.

Q: Do I need a TV with HDMI 2.1 for PC gaming?

Distinctions between the different types of HDMI are based entirely on how much data you’re trying to push from your computer to your display, whether it’s a TV or a monitor. To play games in 4K at 120Hz, you will need HDMI 2.1.

So why do PC gamers talk about frame rate all the time? Gaming monitors that support 4K resolution are still considered a luxury in PC gaming circles, so it’s much more common to see PC players using 1080p or 1440p displays with higher refresh rates. By contrast, 4K is now all but standard on new TVs, but 120Hz support has only been added to high-end sets in the last few years.

Q: What size TV do pro gamers use?

I’m sure most professional gamers, whether we’re talking about esports players or influencers, play games on a TV from time to time, but most pros use a gaming monitor when they’re on the job. For competitive play, a small monitor with the highest possible refresh rate gives you a slight advantage because it allows you to read changes in your game more quickly. For influencers, the issue is more logistical: A PC desk setup makes it easier for most streamers and YouTubers to manage chat, monitor audio levels, switch scenes, and use a pro-grade camera while playing their game. The pro players most likely to use a TV are game critics like myself, and we tend to use whatever we’ve got.

Final thoughts on the best TVs for gaming

The nitty, gritty details of picking TVs can, honestly, get exhausting very quickly. Wide color gamut, viewing angles, brightness levels … if you stare at these numbers on a spec sheet they can start to turn to gibberish real fast. In the end, the best thing to do when picking a TV is to do the eyeball test: If you can and feel safe doing so, go to a store and see what TV looks right. If you can convince somebody to run a game demo for you instead of the usual electronics store tech demo, even better. The gaming-related features of a TV are, surprisingly, slightly less obtuse. For the time being, they’re a little more straightforward: Is it bright enough? Is it fast enough? And, frankly, at this point, even those questions are reserved for those who plan to spend a lot of money—$1,000 or more—on their next TV. For a lot of people, the best gaming TV is still the best overall TV you can afford.

More TV roundups to help you find the perfect set

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Audeze Mobius gaming headset review: Surround sound all around https://www.popsci.com/reviews/audeze-mobius-gaming-headset-review/ Tue, 24 Aug 2021 00:00:00 +0000 https://www.popsci.com/?p=391101
audeze mobius
Spoiler: The Audeze Mobius is a killer gaming headset. Mike Epstein

All-time great sound, all-time high price

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audeze mobius
Spoiler: The Audeze Mobius is a killer gaming headset. Mike Epstein

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The Audeze Mobius is something of an oddity among gaming headsets. Traditionally, headsets are tuned to deliver bass-heavy audio that complements the bombastic experiences that games like Call of Duty and Madden provide. Though the bar for quality has risen dramatically in the past decade, they are often the opposite of what audiophiles look for in headsets, which is pure, sonic truth. So when Audeze, maker of impressive high-end headsets for audiophiles, decided to make its first gaming headset, it raised the question: Is this actually going to be better?

Of course it is. Audeze’ planar magnetic drivers produce a cleaner sound in and out of games. The headset also offers a host of advanced surround sound features, such as 3D audio—virtual surround sound where you can also hear things “above” and “below”—and head-tracking technology, so your surround sound maintains directionality when you turn your head. These features aren’t unique anymore, but the Audeze Mobius’ incredible quality still makes it an incredible PC gaming headset if you’re looking to splurge.

Audeze Mobius: Look and feel

The black plastic frame is covered with grey accent lines and clustered dot designs over the ear cups, which keep it from looking plain, but don’t exactly stand out either. Unlike standard headphones, gaming headsets often trend toward bold and colorful peacockish aesthetics. This one’s restrained enough that you could use them as a pair of everyday carry headphones in a pinch.

Mike Epstein

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The headband and earcups feature memory foam padding covered with artificial leather. The top band padding is a little thin, but the cups are plenty plushy, creating a tight, but cozy space for your ears. Weighing in at 13.2 ounces, they’re on the heavy side, but still light enough that you can easily forget you’re wearing headphones, even during a long gameplay session. Despite all that padding, the Mobius doesn’t do much in the way of blocking out ambient noise, though.

Getting connected

Interestingly, the Mobius supports three connection types: digital, analog, and Bluetooth wireless. The headset includes cables to connect the headset using standard USB (USB-A), USB-C, and a 3.5mm audio jack. USB is still the preferred choice, as you have limited control of the 3D audio and head-tracking in 3.5mm and Bluetooth modes. Despite that, I would only recommend using them in wireless mode for non-gaming purposes. Bluetooth often introduces enough audio lag to create a jarring gameplay experience, especially in multiplayer games. 

Plus, with only an estimated 10 hours of battery life, according to Audeze, there are far more substantial wireless gaming headsets. All that aside, having the ability to plug the Mobius into a console or pair it with a phone makes it more versatile, even if you’re better off keeping it tethered to your gaming rig.

Built-in ports and controls

Audeze Mobius
The “3D” button quickly re-centers your head tracking. Mike Epstein

Speaking of connections, let’s take a closer look at the earcups. The Mobius has a lot of inputs and ports stacked on the left cup. From back to front, you have two volume rollers—one for volume and one for microphone monitoring—a 3.5mm audio jack, a USB-C cord for digital connections and charging, the detachable wire boom microphone, and, finally, the “3D” button. The 3D button allows you to calibrate and recalibrate the Mobius’ head-tracking feature by “centering” the tracking so the direction you’re looking at becomes the new forward.

There are also two inputs on the back of the left earcup; a microphone mute switch and a power button, which also doubles as the Bluetooth pairing button. In fact, almost all of the inputs have multiple functions when you tap, double-tap, or hold them. Learning these inputs is a bit of a hassle to learn. In some cases, it’s worth it, but I’m not going to memorize those media controls when I have perfectly play and track select keys on my keyboard.

Audeze Mobius: What are planar magnetic drivers?

One of the Audeze Mobius main draws is its 100mm planar magnetic drivers. They sometimes show up in high-end, audiophile-grade headphones, but rarely make their way into gaming audio. Most headsets (and consumer-grade speakers) sport dynamic Neodymium drivers, which feature a cone-shaped diaphragm. Planar magnetic driver headphones, by contrast, are flat, which experts will tell you minimizes minute moment-to-moment distortions to sound quality. They are also conducive to bass-heavy audio experiences, which describes most AAA video games.

In the world of gaming headsets, though, the Mobius planar magnetic sound doesn’t come off as bass-heavy. It feels incredibly precise and well-balanced. It is capable of producing big, booming sounds like grenades going off with incredible detail and texture. At the same time, though, you are also getting strong mids and sharp highs without any hint of tinniness. In every situation I tested—from listening to pop, hip-hop, and EDM on Spotify, to playing multiplayer shooters Call of Duty: Black Ops Cold War and Splitgate—there’s incredible detail and nuance in every second of every song and sound effect.

Audeze Mobius: Surround sound that turns heads… and turns with them

Audeze Mobius side view
A closer look at the earcups. Mike Epstein

Mobius stands apart, even from the Audeze Penrose console headset line, because of its 3D audio and head tracking. Virtual surround sound has been the most popular upgrade among gaming headsets in the last few years. Virtually every headset either has it or is optimized for services like Dolby Atmos, which simulate it on your computer. The Audeze Mobius not only offers a very precise, natural-sounding virtual 7.1 surround sound, but also 3D audio, which can simulate audio coming from any direction, including above and below you. 

Depending on the game, having 3D audio can make subtle differences in how you react to games. In Call of Duty: Black Ops Cold War, for example, it allows you to hear the exact trajectory of a bullet whizzing by your head, rather than simply what direction it came from. In other games, you can follow footsteps more clearly, or are simply more immersed in a game’s cinematic qualities.

The Mobius also features head-tracking technology, which allows the virtual soundstage to follow your real-life head movements. Without head-tracking, the “forward” speakers are always facing the center of your screen. With head-tracking, forward is wherever you’re looking.

In theory, it’s a game-changer. Head-tracking prevents your audio from breaking your immersion in a game by ensuring that audio information always sounds like it’s coming from the right place. In practice, its use is fairly limited. When used for virtual reality, where you’re physically moving around in 360 degrees, it’s mind-blowing. It also should theoretically make a subtle difference for players using a very large curved monitor, who will tilt their heads to see something on the side of their screens. With a traditional setup, you don’t turn your head as much, so its magic is more subtle.

Since the Mobius was initially released in 2018, some of these features have become more common. Most notably, the PlayStation 5 features technology that can imbue 3D audio in any headset you connect to the console. Still, 3D audio remains rare among PC gaming headsets, doubly so when you pair it with head tracking.

Audeze Mobius: Track your head tracking

The Audeze HQ configuration app
Audeze HQ, the Mobius’ companion app, can fine-tune the headset’s sound. Mike Epstein

To fine-tune the Mobius’ sound and 3D, head-tracked soundscape, Audeze offers a configuration app called Audeze HQ. As an audio app, HQ is pretty basic. You have access to a handful of sound profiles, including a competitive mode for detecting footsteps, an ultra-low ballistics mode for punchy explosions, and non-gaming options “music” and “warm.” Beyond that, you can switch among different 3D audio modes and choose between stereo and surround sound, but those are also available via onboard controls.

Instead, HQ is primarily meant for fine-tuning how the Mobius senses your head. The first time you boot it up, you’ll want to measure the circumference of your head and adjust that setting. (It makes a difference!) You’ll also be able to fine-tune the sensitivity of the head tracking in a number of ways. Personally, I found the head tracking incredibly accurate, so I didn’t feel a need to change these settings, but I could see a VR expert tinkering with it over time.

Frankly, though, my favorite part of the app is that it animates your head position. It’s the easiest way to confirm that the head tracking is working accurately, and it’s also very fun to listen to music and watch the virtual head bop along.

A look into the Audeze HQ configuaration app
I swear this looked cooler when I was making it… Mike Epstein

Audeze Mobius: But what about the microphone?

It’s easy to forget about the Audeze Mobius’ microphone in the face of these interesting headphone features. Comparatively speaking, the Mobius’ detachable wire boom mic feels fairly standard. Detachable wire mics have become the de facto standard among gaming headsets. The Mobius has a good one—it’s thin, flexible, and holds its shape. The sound quality is also very good: In testing, I found that it picked up voice very well without too much fine adjustment and filtered out a lot of ambient noise. I can’t say that the microphone quality is noteworthy, though. The Mobius is, unsurprisingly, a listener’s headset.

Gaming mic on Audeze Mobius
The Mobius’ microphone is good, but doesn’t stand out from other gaming headsets. Mike Epstein

Who should buy the Audeze Mobius?

The Audeze Mobius headset is among the best headsets I’ve ever tested. It is, however, incredibly expensive. At $399, it is the most money you’ll spend on a dedicated headset. Between the incredible sound quality and advanced surround sound features, though, the Mobius has the tech to back up that price. That said, not everybody needs audiophile-grade sound and head-tracking, so I’d primarily recommend it for VR hobbyists and PC players who will pay any price to lose themselves in a game.

The post Audeze Mobius gaming headset review: Surround sound all around appeared first on Popular Science.

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Best Samsung monitors of 2023 https://www.popsci.com/gear/best-samsung-monitors/ Tue, 28 Jun 2022 11:00:00 +0000 https://www.popsci.com/?p=452253
The best Samsung monitors composited
Stan Horaczek

Samsung’s best monitors are a treat for the eyes with impressive 4K image quality and immersive curved displays.

The post Best Samsung monitors of 2023 appeared first on Popular Science.

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The best Samsung monitors composited
Stan Horaczek

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Best overall The Samsung S80UA is a surprisingly affordable 4K monitor for your home office. Samsung S80UA
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The Samsung S80UA is a surprisingly affordable 4K monitor for your home office.

Best for gaming The Samsung Odyssey G70A will handle all the gaming fidelity your PC can throw at it. Samsung Odyssey G70A
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The Samsung Odyssey G70A will handle all the gaming fidelity your PC can throw at it.

Best 4K The Samsung Odyssey G70A will handle all the gaming fidelity your PC can throw at it. Samsung Odyssey Neo G8
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The Samsung Odyssey Neo G8 delivers incredible specs and a vibrant picture powered by Mini-LED backlighting.

The best Samsung monitors offer a mix of home office and gaming screens with advanced specs and connectivity. One of the biggest names in electronics, you may know Samsung for its TVs and Galaxy smartphones, but it also makes some incredible PC monitors, including competitive gaming displays and high-end productivity displays. The cream of the crop from Samsung skews toward high-resolution curved screens. If you’re looking for a curved, 4K monitor, the best Samsung monitors have a lot to offer.

How we picked the best Samsung monitors

As a critic covering games and gaming hardware, I’ve tested and written about PC gaming peripherals and monitors, for Popular Science, Popular Mechanics, and NBC Select, among others. I’ve researched, tested, and reviewed dozens of gaming monitors, giving me a strong understanding of display technology, manufacturers, and what factors make a monitor stand out.

To make our selections, we relied on my mix of hands-on testing, peer recommendations, user impressions, and information from professional reviews. The best Samsung monitors feature a mix of gaming and productivity monitors for home offices. These groups have different needs—gamers need a fast screen while office workers need comfort and connectivity. We hope mixing these options helps a wider range of users the right monitor for their setups.

The best Samsung monitors: Reviews & Recommendations

The best Samsung monitors offer a mix of gaming and high-end general-use displays with high resolutions and great color reproduction. They are frequently cited among our favorite monitors, particularly the curved Odyssey gaming monitor series. Though many of these displays cost quite a bit, you’ll also find some affordable options.

Best Samsung monitor: Samsung S80UA

Bestbuy

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Buy it used or refurbished: eBay

Why it made the cut: The Samsung S80UA offers great value on a 4K monitor fit for everyday productivity.

Specs

  • Size: 27-inch
  • Resolution: 3840 x 2160 pixels (4K)
  • Panel type: IPS
  • Refresh rate: 60 Hz
  • Response time: 5ms
  • Ports: HDMI 2.0, DP 1.2, USB-C w/90W power delivery, USB-A 3.0 x 3
  • Ergonomics: Tilt, swivel, pivot, height adjust, VESA mountable
  • Variable refresh rate: N/A
  • HDR: HDR10
  • Speakers: 2W x 2
  • Curvature: N/A

Pros

  • Great value
  • DP Alt mode and 90W of charging via USB-C
  • 4K resolution

Cons

  • Weak speakers

The Samsung S80UA is a great all-around monitor for those of us who want 4K clarity for watching videos, office work, and everyday computing tasks. Normally, we recommend avoiding 4K monitors unless you have a very powerful gaming PC or plan to do creative work, like video editing. However, S80UA is very affordably priced, making it a reasonable option for workers who want to splurge on a nice screen.

It’s so affordable, in part, because it’s only 27 inches, which is smaller than we recommend for a 4K display. Given the price, however, you’re still getting pretty solid value. It’s an accommodating size for most workspaces, especially if you use more than one monitor. It supports video over USB-C and 90W of charging power, which makes it a great option for high-end laptops. It also offers wide viewing angles and extensive ergonomic adjustability. It’s a bit pricey for the average worker, but you’re getting a lot of useful productivity features and a luxurious picture in return.

Best for gaming: Samsung Odyssey G70A

SAMSUNG

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Buy it used or refurbished: eBay

Why it made the cut: Fast speeds, versatile connectivity, and adjustable ergonomics make the Odyssey G70A an easy fit for most gaming setups.

Specs

  • Size: 28-inch
  • Resolution: 3840 x 2160 pixels (4K)
  • Panel type: IPS
  • Refresh rate: 144 Hz
  • Response time: 1ms
  • Ports: HDMI 2.1 x 2, DP 1.4, USB-A 3.0 x 3
  • Ergonomics: Tilt, swivel, pivot, height adjust, VESA mountable
  • Variable refresh rate: G-Sync compatible, FreeSync
  • HDR: DisplayHDR 400
  • Speakers: N/A
  • Curvature: N/A

Pros

  • Fast screen
  • Modern connectivity
  • Ergonomic form-factor

Cons

  • Weak color contrast

The Samsung Odyssey G70A monitor provides gamers with modern connectivity and more than enough power to futureproof their setups. Only the highest-end systems will be able to fully leverage its specs, running games in 4K resolution at 144 Hz. Having both available means gamers can pick and choose which to prioritize at any given moment.

The newest connections, HDMI 2.1 and DP 1.4, provide ample bandwidth to support high resolutions and high refresh rates. It also unlocks the highest possible specs for the PS5 and Xbox Series X, making it a great monitor for consoles.

The only things missing from this monitor are speakers, which may be a problem for the console gaming set. Realistically, though, we usually recommend using one of the best gaming headsets or desktop speakers over built-in speakers, anyway.

Best 4K: Samsung Odyssey Neo G8

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Why it made the cut: Mini-LED backlighting gives the Samsung Odyssey Neo G8 incredibly impressive brightness and contrast.

Specs

  • Size: 32-inch
  • Resolution: 3840 x 2160 pixels (4K)
  • Panel type: VA
  • Refresh rate: 240 Hz
  • Response time: 1ms
  • Ports: HDMI 2.1 x 2, DP 1.4, USB-A 3.0 x 2
  • Ergonomics: Tilt, swivel, pivot, height adjust, VESA mountable
  • Variable refresh rate: G-Sync, FreeSync
  • HDR: DisplayHDR 2000
  • Speakers: N/A
  • Curvature: 1000R

Pros

  • Excellent color contrast
  • Overkill speeds
  • Immersive curve

Cons

  • Very expensive

The Odyssey Neo G8 is an incredibly decadent display. This curved 4K, 240 Hz monitor’s upper limits were set with a top-of-the-line PC in mind. Even if you can’t hit them, though, it offers an incredibly bright, vibrant picture that outshines other monitors, even those with similar specs.

With 1,196 Mini-LED local dimming zones backlighting, the Neo G8 is capable of incomparable brightness—2000 nits—and incredibly bold, vibrant colors. Its deep, 1000R curve enhances the immersion of playing games in first-person, stretching the display to capture your peripheral vision.

As much as we love the Neo G8, we also recognize that it is very expensive. If you don’t need a 240 Hz monitor—and you probably don’t—the slightly less expensive Samsung Odyssey Neo G7 features the same curved, Mini-LED-powered 4K display, but with a lower 165 Hz refresh rate.

Best curved: Samsung CJ791

SAMSUNG

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Buy it used or refurbished: eBay

Why it made the cut: The CJ791 is a curved ultrawide monitor that can easily replace two aging office monitors.

Specs

  • Size: 34-inch
  • Resolution: 3440 x 1440 pixels (21:9)
  • Panel type: IPS
  • Refresh rate: 100 Hz
  • Response time: 4ms
  • Ports: HDMI 2.0, DP 1.2, Thunderbolt 3 w/85W PD, Thunderbolt 3 w/15W PD, USB-A 3.0 x 2
  • Ergonomics: Tilt, height adjust, VESA mountable
  • Variable refresh rate: FreeSync
  • HDR: N/A
  • Speakers: 7W x 2
  • Curvature: 1500R

Pros

  • Powered Thunderbolt 3 ports
  • Smooth and fast screen, for an office monitor
  • Decent speakers

Cons

  • Poor contrast

One of our favorite monitors to pair with a MacBook Pro, the Samsung CJ791 is a well-considered curved, ultrawide display for the office, with a wide variety of features rare in a productivity monitor.

While it lacks the immaculate contrast of a screen for gaming or creative work, the CJ791 is a great single-screen solution for home office workers looking to consolidate from a pair of older monitors. The 34-inch, 21:9 display gives you plenty of screen space for documents, spreadsheets, video calls, and more. It is also unusually responsive for a general-use monitor, with a 100 Hz refresh rate and FreeSync compatibility.

For hybrid office workers, its Thunderbolt 3 port features 85W of charging power, so plugging in via USB-C will both output video and charge the laptop. Plus, you get two additional USB-A ports for a little extra connectivity. It’s a functional mix of size, speed, and connectivity that’s rare among luxury office monitors.

Best ultrawide: Samsung Odyssey G9

SAMSUNG

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Buy it used or refurbished: eBay

Why it made the cut: The gigantic 49-inch Samsung Odyssey G9 delivers top-of-the-line everything in a super ultrawide form factor.

Specs

  • Size: 49-inch
  • Resolution: 5120 x 1440 pixels (32:9)
  • Panel type: VA
  • Refresh rate: 240 Hz
  • Response time: 1ms
  • Ports: HDMI 2.0, DP 1.4 (2), USB-A 3.0 (2)
  • Ergonomics: Tilt, swivel, height adjust, VESA mountable
  • Variable refresh rate: G-Sync compatible, FreeSync
  • HDR: HDR 1000
  • Speakers: N/A
  • Curvature: 1000R

Pros

  • Huge 32:9 screen
  • Great brightness
  • Fast and responsive

Cons

  • May not physically fit on your desk

Why settle for ultrawide, when you can go for a super-ultrawide gaming monitor? Super-ultrawide monitors like the Samsung Odyssey G9 feature a 32:9 aspect ratio, pulling their display out to the point where they surpass the width of multiple monitors. The Odyssey G9, with 5120 x 1440p resolution and 240Hz refresh rate, pulls out all the stops in this very niche form factor, giving you the biggest, most intense version of the curved ultrawide experience possible.

The screen also is very bright, fast and colorful. It uses Samsung’s QLED backlighting to generate 1000 nits of brightness on a VA panel, providing richer color and contrast than most gaming monitors, especially when compared to IPS panels. At 49 inches, this is as big as a TV, so you’ll need to sit pretty far back from it to get the full effect. Still, there’s nothing quite like it.

Best budget: Samsung CF396

SAMSUNG

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Buy it used or refurbished: Amazon

Why it made the cut: The Samsung CF396 offers a great deal on a decent, if feature-light, curved display.

Specs

  • Size: 23.5-inch
  • Resolution: 1920 x 1080 pixels
  • Panel type: VA
  • Refresh rate: 60 Hz
  • Response time: 4ms
  • Ports: HDMI, VGA
  • Ergonomics: Tilt, VESA mountable
  • Variable refresh rate: FreeSync
  • HDR: N/A
  • Speakers: N/A
  • Curvature: 1800R

Pros

  • An affordable way to try a curved display
  • VA panel provides good contrast
  • Intuitive onboard controls

Cons

  • Not very adjustable

If you want to find out if a curved monitor is right for you, but don’t want to spend too much, the Samsung CF396 is a good way to test the waters. Its 1800R curve is more modest than top-of-the-line gaming displays, which may help you adjust to the curved monitor lifestyle.

Beyond the curve, the CF396 is a fairly basic display—1080p at 60 Hz is perfectly fine for everyday office work and web browsing, but isn’t going to make a strong impression. It does feature a contrast-emphasizing VA panel, which may make reading and word processing a bit easier on the eyes. The real selling point is that you’re getting a curved Samsung monitor for less than $200.

What to consider before buying a Samsung monitor

With a wide variety of product lines and naming conventions, Samsung doesn’t make it easy to learn about its various monitors. Some are clearly branded, such as the M8 Smart Displayour review here—while others are named with obtuse serial numbers, like the Samsung CF396, a budget-friendly curved monitor. Beyond odd names, monitors are highly complicated devices, and scrutinizing the minute differences between them takes a basic amount of technical know-how. You don’t need to be a scientist but understanding the terms “refresh rate,” “response time,” and “color gamut” will guide you to a basic understanding. Let’s walk through some of those key terms, so you know what to look for when it’s time to pick your next monitor.

Resolution and size

Resolution and size are two of the most important elements of any monitor. It’s tempting to assume the two have nothing to do with each other but that couldn’t be further from the truth. In fact, picking a resolution and size that complement each other ensures that you get the sharpest possible picture without paying for more power than you need.

Resolution refers to the number of pixels your monitor uses to create an image. It’s measured in dimensions, so “1080p” resolution actually corresponds to a 1920 x 1080 pixel resolution, or 1920 pixels horizontally by 1080 pixels vertically. The more pixels your monitor uses to make an image, the sharper and more detailed your image should look.

There are three common resolutions for conventional widescreen (16:9) displays. Full HD, also known as 1080p (1920 x 1080 pixels), is the baseline for most PC monitors. Most utilities and apps look perfectly fine in 1080p. Games also look very sharp, so long as you keep your screen size small. Quad HD, or 1440p (2560 x 1440 pixels), is a middle ground that works well for gaming, as it offers a strong boost in visual fidelity that many dedicated gaming PCs can handle. Lastly, 4K UHD (2380 x 2160 pixels) is the gold standard but is still considered a luxury as you may not need it for everyday computing and only high-powered gaming PCs can reliably play games in 4K at high frame rates.

While resolution determines visual fidelity, your monitor’s actual performance may also change based on your monitor’s size. On the one hand, large monitors with lower resolutions may lack a certain sharpness as pixel density, or the number of pixels used to make each square inch of your image, declines. On the other, you may not be able to actually see the difference between a 24-inch 1440p display and a 24-inch 4K display, so why pay hundreds of extra dollars to buy a 4K display?

As a broad rule, we recommend scaling resolution and size in tandem: If you’re looking for a 24-inch monitor, 1080p works fine. At 27 inches, bump it up 1440p. If you want a large monitor, 32 inches or higher, break the bank and get a 4K monitor. There are great monitors that fit all of these pairs. We’ve also recommended some incredible displays that break these rules, though. Sometimes, other features elevate a monitor beyond this very broad, basic rule.

Refresh rate

Refresh rate, measured in Hertz (Hz), refers to the number of times your monitor can update what it shows you on screen every second. With a higher refresh rate, every animation moves more smoothly, from moving your mouse cursor to dragging a window to watching a progress bar fill up. 

That said, refresh rate disproportionally affects gaming, since a monitor’s refresh rate dictates your games’ maximum frame rate. With a powerful PC, games can run substantially faster on a monitor with a high refresh rate, showing smoother, more detailed animations.

For productivity displays, you don’t really need to worry about refresh rate: A basic 60 Hz-75 Hz frame rate is more than enough to allow for smooth animation in most PC apps. For a gaming monitor, we recommend looking for a 144 Hz monitor, which opens the door for many systems to run games faster than 60 frames per second. Competitive players may be interested in stepping up to a 240 Hz monitor or higher, but it isn’t necessary for most players.

Response time

Response time measures the amount of input lag created when your PC and monitor communicate. There is always a slight delay between when you press a key or move your mouse and when the results of those inputs appear on the screen. Even basic modern setups have it down to a matter of milliseconds, but gaming peripherals, including mice, keyboards, and monitors, are all designed to cut it down as much as possible.

Most gaming monitors advertise a very low response time, usually 1 millisecond or less. As with frame rate, competitive players will want the lowest possible response time since even a single frame can be consequential. Among non-gaming monitors, response time isn’t considered a crucial spec, so you’ll frequently see office-focused monitors with response times between 4ms and 5ms.

Panel type

Manufacturers use a few different types of display panels when making monitors, and the panel type can affect its performance in subtle ways. The vast majority of monitors feature one of three panels: Twisted Nematic (TN), Vertical Alignment (VA), and In-Plane Switching (IPS). Each panel type has pros and cons, and one is not inherently better than the rest. TN panels are fast and affordable, but can’t generate the brightest, most accurate colors. VA panels offer great color contrast but offer limited viewing angles. IPS panels are fast, colorful, and easy to view at an angle, but may wash out grays and blacks. We usually view panel type as an indication of how a monitor should be used, more than an actual barometer of performance, but you should still pay attention to it.

Variable refresh rate

There are a number of gaming-specific display technologies, but variable refresh rate is the most common and important. Variable refresh rate or “adaptive sync” allows your monitor to dynamically adjust its target refresh rate to mirror your PC’s performance. In games, where frame rates can change rapidly, variable refresh rate keeps your game running smoothly, and prevents graphical issues like screen tearing and visual artifacting.

The two companies that make dedicated graphics cards both have their own version of this technology: Nvidia is G-Sync and AMD is FreeSync. Though the basic functionality is cross-compatible in most cases, gamers should pick a monitor that pairs with their graphics card to get the best possible performance. For more information on the specifics of these features, please check out our explainers on the best G-Sync monitors and the best FreeSync monitors.

Screen curvature

When looking at a curved monitor, you’ll want to consider the depth of the display curvature. A monitor’s curve, measured in millimeters, reflects the distance between the screen and your ideal position in front of it. For example, you should sit 1000mm (1M) away from a monitor with a 1000R curve, or 4000mm (4M) from a monitor with a 4000R curve. Perhaps counterintuitively, monitors with a lower rating feature a deeper curve, as they come closer to achieving a field-of-view similar to your eye.

The radius of a curved display (R), measured in millimeters, indicates the depth of its curve and tells you how far away you need to sit to take in the whole screen. For example, a 1000R curve means the distance 

The smaller the number, the more drastic the curve. Sharp curves are better viewed up close, with wider curves being more comfortable from a distance. Common curvatures range between 1000R and 2000R, the “R” meaning radius and the number being a measurement in millimeters.

Curved displays convey a few advantages, including enhanced immersion in games and superior ergonomics. That said, using one is also an acquired taste. We recommend trying a curved monitor in a store before making the switch.

FAQs

Q: Is Samsung a good brand for monitors?

While it may be more well-known for its smartphones and TVs, Samsung is also a top brand in the monitor space. It makes some of our favorite gaming and productivity monitors.

Q: How much does a Samsung monitor cost?

Samsung monitors range in cost, from budget options priced below $200 to cutting-edge displays that cost $1,500 or more. Many of our favorites cost between $600-$900, but the brand’s cutting-edge displays all cost well over $1,000.

Q: What is the best Samsung monitor for work?

Our list includes a couple of very strong productivity monitors, including the Samsung S80UA and Samsung CJ791 ultrawide. Both feature strong features and specs that make them well-suited for the office.

Final thoughts on the best Samsung monitors

The best Samsung monitors are a good fit for gamers and office workers alike. Its Odyssey gaming line delivers 4K resolution without compromising on the speeds gamers need. Meanwhile, its many productivity monitors offer similar resolutions with ample connectivity for daily drivers and accessories.

The post Best Samsung monitors of 2023 appeared first on Popular Science.

Articles may contain affiliate links which enable us to share in the revenue of any purchases made.

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The best gifts to get your friends into gaming https://www.popsci.com/story/gadgets/gaming-gifts-beginner-nintendo/ Mon, 07 Dec 2020 14:33:37 +0000 https://www.popsci.com/uncategorized/gaming-gifts-beginner-nintendo/
The Best Gifts For Gamers
Brandt Ranj / Popular Science

They’ll be begging you to join their Overwatch squad in no time with these gaming gifts.

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The Best Gifts For Gamers
Brandt Ranj / Popular Science

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Best game console Nintendo Switch Nintendo Switch
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The Nintendo Switch’s hybrid-console approach makes it the best pick for new and lapsed gamers.

Best TV Sony Bravia A80K Sony Bravia XR A80K
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The Bravia A80K will make both modern PC and console games look incredibly sharp and vibrant.

Best gaming laptop ASUS ROG Strix G15 ASUS ROG Strix G15
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The ROG Strix G15 will allow you to play the highest-end games anywhere in the world.

If you’re into video games like I am, you know the struggle—there are always those friends that look at you funny when you bring up a difficult Bloodborne boss or try explaining the Legend of Zelda timeline. We know they’re missing out on masterful storytelling, adrenaline rushes, breathtaking fantasy worlds, and triumphant feelings, but it’s hard to even get them to try a Pokémon game. Still, I have hope that these misled non-gamers can be turned into full-fledged gaming connoisseurs. And the holiday season is the perfect time to get them to take the plunge. Gaming is more popular than ever thanks to the rise of streaming services, smartphones, and cutting-edge game consoles. Still, most people who want to game are in it for the experience of kicking back on a couch and spending a few hours running, jumping, slashing, shooting, or using magic. Whether you’re shopping for a hardcore or lapsed gamer, these gaming gifts include some core components they’d appreciate.

Best game console: Nintendo Switch

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If you’re in the position to give someone (or yourself) their very first console this holiday, don’t chase after the flashy new PlayStation 5 or Xbox Series X. The Nintendo Switch is a better starter piece because it has something for everyone, whether that’s classic Mario or Zelda games, online team shooters like Overwatch, or even a game where you walk around as a goose, honking and messing with people. Nintendo also offers the Switch Lite for $100 less, but you can only play it handheld-style instead of connecting it to your TV. I’d suggest opting for the original version if you can swing it—the option to switch from TV to handheld is a delight. If you want to go a little more luxe, you can spend an extra $100 on the Nintendo Switch OLED Model, which has a nicer, larger screen and plays all the same games.

Best controller: 8Bitdo Ultimate Bluetooth Controller

8BitDo

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8Bitdo’s Ultimate Bluetooth controller lives up to its name. The gamepad, which works with both the Nintendo Switch and Windows PCs, feels great in the hand, has a familiar button layout, and can switch between Bluetooth and a 2.4GHz wireless connection. Additionally, buttons on the back can be programmed on the back to trigger custom commands in compatible games. Perhaps the coolest thing about this controller is the included charging dock, which makes topping up its battery a lot easier. If you keep the controller docked when you’re not playing, it’ll never run out of juice. Xbox and PlayStation players shouldn’t feel left out, as the official first-party controllers for the Xbox Series S/X and PlayStation 5 are available.

Best TV: Sony Bravia XR A80K

Sony

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Console and PC gamers alike will appreciate a TV that makes their games look and run as well as possible, which is why we heartily recommend Sony’s Bravia XR A80K OLED TV. An OLED TV will look games look more vibrant and realistic thanks to their ability to control the lighting of each individual pixel. Plus, the A80K has multiple HDMI 2.1 ports, which will allow you to play 4K games at up to 120Hz with HDR (high dynamic range) enabled. The bottom line is that modern console and PC games will look flawless on this TV. Hisense’s U8H is another great TV option that has an LCD panel but has all the other features as the A80K at a lower price.

Best headset: Logitech G PRO X

Logitech

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Hearing and speaking to teammates is essential when playing competitive multiplayer games online, which is why Logitech’s G Pro X is such a great gift. The headset can create a virtual 7.1 surround sound environment, so players will be able to hear opponents approaching from any direction. This makes a huge difference when playing games where every second counts. The G Pro X’s large, 50mm drivers will deliver clear sound regardless of which game they’re playing. The headset’s microphone is flexible, so gamers can move it around to find the perfect place for them. Communication is key during online matches, so having a microphone that’s always near and ready is a huge plus. This headset is compatible with PCs, the PlayStation 4, PlayStation 5, and Nintendo Switch. Xbox gamers should check out this headset instead.

Best mobile gaming controller: Backbone One

Backbone

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The Backbone One effectively turns your iPhone into a Nintendo Switch. This controller shell connects directly to the iPhone’s Lighting port and grips itself to both sides of the device. Once it’s connected, gamers can play iOS titles that support external controllers with traditional buttons, triggers, and control sticks. The Backbone One can also be used by iPhone gamers who want to stream cloud games using services provided by Microsoft, Sony, and NVidia. This accessory brings out the full gaming potential of the iPhone. If you’re an Android user, the Razer Kishi offers the same functionality for smartphones on that platform.

Best handheld: Logitech G Cloud

Logitech

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We’ve already recommended the Nintendo Switch, but what about a gift for gamers who want to play their Xbox, PlayStation, and Steam games while they’re on the go. Enter Logitech’s G Cloud. The G Cloud runs Android, and as its name suggests, its primary purpose is playing games from streaming services like NVIDIA’s GeForce Now, Xbox Remote Play, and PlayStation Remote Play. Under the right circumstances (a fast enough internet connection), games run beautifully and look gorgeous on the device’s 7-inch 1080p display. The G Cloud has enough processing power and memory to quickly load apps, and switch between them with ease. If you’re shopping for someone who craves portable gaming but wants more power than a Switch can provide, they’ll love this gift.

Best compact gaming computer: Bosgame Mini PC

Bosgame

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One of the biggest barriers to entry for would-be computer gamers is finding enough space for a desktop, but Bosgame’s Mini PC is an interesting solution. This compact gaming PC can run many newer titlesat 1080P with medium settings enabled, and you may be able to eek out even more performance on a game-by-game basis. That’s due in large part to the machine’s Ryzen 7 5800U 8-core processor, 16GB of RAM, and NVMe SSD. These are components we’d expect to see in computers that cost one to two hundred dollars more. If you’re shopping for a lapsed PC gamer, or someone who wants to give gaming on Windows a try, this is the gift to get.

Best gaming laptop: ASUS ROG Strix G15

ASUS

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Gaming laptops used to be incredibly compromised, but ASUS’ ROG Strix G15 proves how far technology has come. The Windows laptop has an AMD Ryzen 9 5980HX processor, 32GB of RAM (memory), 1TB SSD, and a Radeon RX 6800M graphics card with 12GB of dedicated video memory under the hood. Its 15.6-inch QHD display has a refresh rate of 165Hz, which is better than most gaming monitors. A higher refresh rate allows the screen to keep up with fast-paced games without lagging. This laptop’s specs are overkill for casual gamers who mostly stick to indie titles, but it’s the right machine for gamers who like to live on the cutting edge, but travel too often to justify getting a high-end desktop. The laptop is also chock full of ports, so connecting accessories won’t require an adapter; it even has an HDMI port, so plugging it into a monitor or TV is a single cable affair. Razer’s Blade Stealth 13 is a good alternative if you’d like to get them a similarly specced machine with a smaller footprint.

Best monitor: Samsung Odyssey G30A

Samsung

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Speaking of monitors, PC and console gamers will all appreciate Samsung’s Odyssey G30A. Its 144Hz refresh rate will make games look super smooth, and support for AMD’s FreeSync technology will prevent abnormalities like screen tearing (distortion) from getting in the way of online matches or intense sequences with a lot of movement. Additionally, its large size means gamers will feel immersed while playing titles at their desk. We also like that the G30A has multiple HDMI ports, so multiple consoles can be plugged into it simultaneously. We understand not everybody has enough room for a 27-inch display, which is why we feel like 24-inch LG’s 24GN600-B is another good option. If the person you’re getting this gift for has expressed interest in curved monitors Samsung’s 34-inch Odyssey G5 deserves a look.

Best mouse: Razer Viper V2 Pro

Razer

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Regular gaming mice are too slow to keep up with the split-second movements necessary to play PC games competitively, which is why recommend getting serious gamers Razer’s Viper V2 Pro. The wireless optical mouse provides peak performance on any surface and can survive up to 90 million clicks without faltering. Razer even allows you to change the mouse’s sensitivity by pushing a button instead of managing it through software. The most impressive feature of this mouse is that it’s wireless, which is atypical for gaming mice as it can lead to latency (lag) between your input (movement or a click) and how long it takes the PC to respond. Razer feels like it’s cracked the code on how to offer premium performance without a cumbersome cable. If wires aren’t an issue, Razer’s Basilisk V3 is another good pick; its optical sensor is almost as good, and it’s equipped with RGB lights and even more programmable buttons.

Best keyboard: SteelSeries Apex Pro

SteelSeries

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The right keyboard can also help improve one’s performance in online games, and SteelSeries’ Apex Pro is the one to get for the gamer in your life. The wired mechanical keyboard has LEDs, which can make it easier to see keys in the dark (in addition to looking cool), and programmable buttons that can be linked to certain actions for specific games. Its standout feature is an OLED screen, which can present computer stats, notifications, and quick access to certain settings. Equally important is the keyboard’s palm rest, which makes it more comfortable to use during long gaming sessions. Slightly less luxe is the company’s own Apex 3, which lacks a screen but has most of the same other features, including the palm rest.

Best for streaming: Elgato HD60 S+

Elgato

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Elgato’s HD60 S+ simplifies the complicated process of getting console game footage onto your PC for editing or live streaming. The unassuming puck has HDMI ports and a USB port, which is all you’ll need to connect your console to a computer. The HD60 S+ can capture 1080P high dynamic range video at up to 60 frames per second. It’s compatible with all current-generation game consoles and Windows PCs. If ever there was a great gaming stocking stuffer, this is it.

Best Wi-Fi Routers: Eero 6+

Eero

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You might not think Wi-Fi routers are a great gaming gift until you realize that it’s impossible to stream or download games without a solid connection. This set of three Eero 6+ routers can blanket an area of up to 4,500 square feet with a wireless network that supports speeds up to 1,000 megabits per second. In all likelihood, that means you’ll get the top internet speed you’re paying for without having to plug your console or PC into your cable modem. If the gamer you’re shopping for complains about getting dropped from matches constantly, this gift will solve the issue once and for all. We prefer mesh Wi-Fi routers because they can cover more ground, but Netgear’s Nighthawk Pro is the best single-point option for gamers thanks to its ultra-fast top speed.

Best microphone: Shure MV7

Shure

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It’s almost impossible to build an online audience for game streams without talking to them while you play, which is why Shure’s MV7 is such a great gift. The USB microphone connects directly to a computer and has easy-to-use software that handles all the important audio settings that impact vocal quality in a couple of clicks. What you end up with is studio-quality sound without much fuss. Importantly, the microphone has a headphone jack, so you can listen to yourself while you’re chatting. This is helpful because you’ll be able to adjust your speaking volume or detect audio abnormalities instantly. A more budget-friendly USB alternative is Joby’s Wavo Pod, which doesn’t match up to the MV7 feature-for-feature, but will make streamers sound better than their laptop mic would. Feeling spendy enough to assemble a broadcast-quality rig complete with external interface? Bump up to the high-resolution XLR Logitech for Creators Blue Sona.

Best webcam: Obsbot Tiny PTZ

A webcam is another essential accessory for game streamers, and we can’t recommend Obsbot’s Tiny PTZ highly enough. The 4K webcam sits on a rotating stand, and uses AI to follow a subject as they move. During active streams, the streamer will always stay in frame, which is especially important during games like Dance Dance Revolution or any title with motion controls. If you’re shopping for a streamer who records VR games, they need a webcam that can keep up with them since they can’t manage their video stream while playing. It doesn’t hurt that the Obsbot’s video looks crystal clear, and that its microphone is surprisingly good, too. Static streamers may enjoy Logitech’s C922x, which has similar specs but won’t move around.

Best gaming books: Bitmap Books’ Game Boy: The Box Art Collection

Bitmap Books

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Any fan of retro video games would be bowled over while flipping through Bitmap Books’ Game Boy: The Box Art Collection. Lovingly assembled, the hardcover book contains scans and screenshots of titles from the Game Boy’s entire library—both domestic and abroad—along with information on each title. It’s clear this was a labor of love, and supporting Bitmap Books is one of the surest ways to guarantee video game knowledge is preserved for generations to come.

The post The best gifts to get your friends into gaming appeared first on Popular Science.

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Best projectors for gaming in 2023 https://www.popsci.com/gear/best-projectors-for-gaming/ Wed, 19 Oct 2022 17:00:00 +0000 https://www.popsci.com/?p=478798
Best projectors for gaming
Stan Horaczek

Go way bigger than your TV can with these high-performance projectors. But be warned: Playing on a 150-inch screen will spoil you.

The post Best projectors for gaming in 2023 appeared first on Popular Science.

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Best projectors for gaming
Stan Horaczek

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Best overall Optoma-UHD38 projector Optoma UHD38
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It has the trifecta that gamers are looking for in a projector: 4K support, a high refresh rate, and a low response time.

Best portable xgimi elfin projector XGIMI Elfin
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You can easily fit it in a bag for a camping trip or the like, and 800 lumens is more than enough to conduct a clear image in dark or dim conditions.

Best budget BenQ-TH685P projector BenQ TH685P/TH585P
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It offers HDR support and 3500 lumens, so its image is comparable to much more expensive projectors.

Whether you’re more into the frenetic gunplay of Call of Duty or the slow charms of Stardew Valley, the idea of playing your favorite games on a 20-foot-tall screen is undoubtedly appealing and projectors for gaming can make it happen. Though projectors were considered a generally weak option for gaming in the past, improvements in resolution and response time have dramatically increased their appeal to everyday consumers. The top-of-the-line projectors are still going to make a major dent in your wallet, but there are good budget options, too. We looked at dozens of projectors to determine the best projectors for gaming in your specific setup, and here are our top picks.

Why should I buy a projector for gaming?

It’s a valid question. After all, most of us already have big, expensive TVs, so why would I want a projector instead? Well, for one thing, projectors are far easier to transport than TVs and most can be adjusted to fit walls that are between 3 and 30 feet. Of course, there are downsides to projectors. For one thing, they’re expensive, with even the budget options coming in at well north of the price of a cheap TV.  For another, they require a certain setup to be used correctly.

For example, standard-throw or long-throw projectors often require 10 to 15 feet of space in order to output a good-quality image, which might not work for everyone’s living situation. Short-throw projectors can make do with just 5 to 8 feet—and ultra short-throws even less than that—so they might be a better fit for certain people. Projectors also require a darkened room in order to work well, which probably isn’t an issue for most people, but it can be inconvenient at times. The bottom line is that while a projector for gaming probably isn’t an everyday use item for most people, it can be very helpful for social gatherings, especially LAN parties.

How we picked the best projectors for gaming

I’ve been a professional tech writer for about a decade now, as well as a contributor to PopSci writing about everything from 3-D printers to VPNs. I know my way around gadgets for every level of consumer, from entry-level to industrial. To make these recommendations, I consulted personal testimonials, peer recommendations, consumer reviews, and tests conducted by top-quality professionals. This helped me to determine which projectors shone brightest.

Things to consider before buying a projector for gaming

As mentioned above, you should think about the room or rooms that you plan to use your gaming projector in and, especially, where you want to put the projector. You might even way to measure its dimensions to confirm. Depending on that, you’ll want to get a projector that has a throw ratio (a measure of its picture size relative to its distance from the wall) that fits that space.

Think about your use case

Some projectors are portable and suitable for outdoor use, while others are big, bulky, and are best used for an indoor gaming night. Additionally, some models are easier to set up with modern (or retro) gaming consoles—like the PlayStation 5 or Xbox Series X—than others. You’ll also want to look at vital stats like resolution and the projector’s response time. If you plan on playing competitive games on the projector, you’ll want to shell out for a model that has the fastest response time possible. Otherwise, you’ll have to deal with input lag. More expensive models tend to have smart features like Alex and Google Home support, too.

The best projectors for gaming: Reviews & Recommendations

As you’ll see in our list, some projectors are so portable that you can take them on a road trip, or perhaps even on a plane. They’re also more outdoor-friendly than traditional TVs, so you can have a backyard grill or bonfire as you play games with your friends.

Best overall: Optoma UHD38

Optoma

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Why it made the cut: The Optoma UHD38 is a reasonably priced projector that delivers everything that a gamer could ask for. 

Specs

  • Price: $1,600
  • Throw ratio: 1.5 to 1.66
  • Brightness: 4000 lumens
  • Resolutions supported: 1080p, 4K
  • Response time: 4.2ms (1080p), 16ms (4K)
  • Refresh rate: 240Hz (1080p), 60Hz (4K)
  • Other features: HDR10 support
  • Screen size range: 33 to 301 inches
  • Source lifespan: 15,000 hours

Pros

  • Great response time
  • 4K support
  • Amazing refresh rate
  • Fair price (though expensive)

Cons

  • Not very portable
  • No smart features

In terms of price-to-feature ratio, projectors don’t get much better than the Optoma UHD38. It has the trifecta that gamers are looking for in a projector: 4K support, a high refresh rate, and a low response time. Both its 4K and 1080p response times are the lowest you’re going to find in a gaming projector, and its 240Hz refresh rate supports higher frame rates for PC gaming on 1080p, too. Its brightness of 4000 lumens makes it suitable for both dark and semi-dark rooms during the daytime, and HDR support just sweetens the deal even more. It also has two HDMI inputs, which is more than enough for most people. Additionally, its lifespan of 15,000 hours isn’t the best in the space, but it’s more than a lot of lamp projectors out there.

While the UHD38 is a great deal, it does have some downsides. For one thing, its asking price of $1600 is very competitive for the space, but it’s still a lot of money, especially compared to some budget options we’ll examine later. Also, it lacks some of the nifty smart features that its more expensive competitors have, such as Alexa and Google Home support. Additionally, its rated lifespan of 15,000 hours is significantly shorter than lower brightness sets. Still, it is the best overall projector for gaming for most people, and that’s the bottom line.

Best 4K: Optoma UHZ50

Optoma

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Why it made the cut: The Optoma UHZ50 is an incredible high-end 4K laser projector that provides a crisper image and better contrast than its lamp-based competitors. However, it is also quite pricey, even by tech standards.

Specs

  • Price: $2,800
  • Throw ratio: 1.21 to 1.59
  • Brightness: 3000 lumens
  • Resolutions supported: 1080p, 4K
  • Response time: 4.2ms (1080p), 16ms (4K)
  • Refresh rate: 240Hz (1080p), 60 Hz (4K)
  • Other features: HDR support, eARC sound, smart features
  • Screen size range: 30 to 300 inches
  • Source lifespan: 30,000 hours

Pros

  • Unparalleled image quality
  • Meets the specs gamers need
  • Smart features

Cons

  • Not very portable
  • Incredibly expensive

When it comes to projectors, the overall answer is clear: in most cases, laser projectors are simply better than their lamp brethren. Laser projectors have a better contrast ratio, more vivid colors, deeper blacks, and lower maintenance than the alternative. However, this is balanced out with a much higher upfront cost. The UHZ50 has an MSRP of $2,800, which is nearly double that of the above-recommended UHD38. That means it’s much more of an investment than its fellow Optoma projector.

That hefty price tag also gets you a premium set of comfort features, including voice commands via Alexa and Google Home support. Its 1.3x zoom makes it easier to set up in a tight space than most standard-throw projectors, and it has three HDMI inputs, which is one more than the UHD38. It’s also rated for 30,000 hours of use before maintenance, which is more than most lamp projectors. Overall, if you can afford the UHZ50, it’s a great product. For most of us mere mortals, however, we’ll have to stick to the cheaper lamp models.

Best portable: XGIMI Elfin 

Xgimi

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Why it made the cut: The XGIMI Elfin’s compact size and competitive price make it a force to beat in the portable projector world.

Specs

  • Price: $650
  • Throw ratio: 1.20
  • Brightness: 800 lumens
  • Resolutions supported: 1080p
  • Response time: 26.5ms
  • Refresh rate: 60Hz
  • Other features: 6W dual speakers
  • Screen size range: 30 to 200 inches
  • Source lifespan: 25,000 hours

Pros

  • Very portable
  • Good image quality for its size
  • Competitive price

Cons

  • Not comparable in specs to a full projector
  • Requires workaround for AirPlay and Netflix

The concept of a portable projector is indeed a compelling one, and while these small devices can’t compare to their larger cousins, they’re still quite nice in their own right. The XGIMI Elfin is a bit bigger than the true “mini” projectors out there, like the Anker Nebula Capsule, but it’s only 7 inches by 7 inches by 2 inches, and it weighs less than 3 pounds, so you can easily fit it in a bag for a camping trip or the like. And 800 lumens is more than enough to conduct a clear image in dark or dim conditions, though it’s not suitable for outdoor daytime use.

The Elfin does have one annoying problem common to mini projectors, however: it requires you to download an app in order to use AirPlay with iOS devices, and you’ll need to call XGIMI customer support to download Netflix. The device’s response rate of 26.5ms is higher than a larger projector, but it’s still quite suitable for most action games. Crucially, whereas some mini projectors top out at 720p, the Elfin delivers a 1080p image, as well as HDR, which is what gamers want. Overall, though it has its quirks, the Elfin is the best portable projector of its size out there.

Best short-throw: BenQ TK700STi

BenQ

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Why it made the cut: The BenQ TK700STi is an excellent gaming projector with the specs to please any player, and its short-throw ratio makes it suitable for any living situation.

Specs

  • Price: $1,700
  • Throw ratio: 0.9-1.08
  • Brightness: 3000 lumens
  • Resolutions supported: 4K, 1080p
  • Response time: 16.67ms (4K), 4.16ms (1080p)
  • Refresh rate: 240Hz (1080p), 60Hz (4K)
  • Other features: None
  • Screen size range: 30 to 300 inches
  • Source lifespan: 10,000 hours

Pros

  • Short throw picture makes it versatile
  • Short response time
  • High refresh rate

Cons

  • Expensive
  • Not as bright as some others

Marketed as the “first 4K HDR gaming short-throw projector,” the BenQ TK700STi arguably fits that brief. Similar to the UHD38, the TK700STi’s guts are exactly what you want from a gaming projector: 4K support, a low response time, and a high refresh rate. Unlike its competitors, however, the TK700STi is a short-throw projector, meaning that it can be used in homes that offer only 6 to 8 feet of horizontal space. It also has 1.2x zoom, which means that it’s easy to get the perfect image size, as well as Android TV, Airplay, and Chromecast support.

As a whole, the TK700STi is extremely similar to the UHD38 in terms of functionality, though it does cost $100 more. Because of this, it’s up to you to measure your living space and determine whether or not a long-throw or short-throw projector is right for you, and decide for yourself accordingly.

Best mini: XGIMI Halo+

Xgimi

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Why it made the cut: The XGIMI Halo might cost more than some mini projectors, but its ultra-compact size and top-shelf specs make it a winner.

Specs

  • Price: $850
  • Throw ratio: 1.2
  • Brightness: 900 lumens
  • Resolutions supported: 1080p
  • Response time: 26ms
  • Refresh rate: 60Hz 
  • Other features: HDR10 support
  • Screen size range: 30 to 300 inches
  • Source lifespan: 30,000 hours

Pros

  • Ultra-portable
  • Good image quality for its size
  • Competitive price

Cons

  • Less crisp image quality than larger portable projectors
  • Requires workaround for AirPlay and Netflix

There are portable projectors, and then there are true “mini” projectors. Coming in at 4 inches by 5 inches by 6 inches, the XGIMI Halo+ is so tiny that it fits comfortably in a small backpack or carry-on airplane bag, which is extremely useful for global travelers. With its 900-lumen screen and HDR10 support, you could even argue that the Halo+ has better image quality than the Elfin despite its more compact size. Then again, it costs several hundred dollars more, so you get what you pay for. Its 26.5ms response time isn’t the best, but it’s certainly acceptable for most games.

The Halo+’s auto keystone feature is also quite handy, since it automatically tilts and adjusts its lens to give you the best possible playback on any smooth surface. Since it’s intended as a portable device, it’ll play for two hours on a full charge. Similar to the Elfin, it has nice 5W built-in speakers and Android TV support. Like many portable projectors, it requires an app for Airplay compatibility on iOS, as well as a workaround for Netflix access.

Overall, like the Elfin, the XGIMI Halo can’t compete with the expansive feature sets of full-sized projectors like those from BenQ and Optoma. However, for a portable use case, they are quite nice devices that deliver a great experience for those who can afford them, especially in an outdoor or travel-oriented setting where you just want to play some Mario Kart.

Best budget: BenQ TH685P/TH585P

BenQ

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Why it made the cut: The BenQ TH685P is a high-quality projector that gives gamers everything they want for less than $1000.

Specs

  • Price: $800
  • Throw ratio: 1.127 to 1.46 (685P), 1.5 to 1.65 (585P)
  • Brightness: 3500 lumens
  • Resolutions supported: 4K, 1080p
  • Response time: 8ms (1080p), 16ms (4K)
  • Refresh rate: 120Hz (1080p), 60Hz (4K)
  • Other features: HDR10 support
  • Screen size range: 30 to 300 inches
  • Source lifespan: 4,000 hours

Pros

  • Incredible price
  • Great specs, especially 4K support
  • Easy to set up

Cons

  • Rated for low lifespan for maintenance
  • Lack of smart features, as well as monitor and VGA out

If you’ve balked at the four-figure prices of the traditional projectors so far, the BenQ TH685P is what you’ve been waiting for. Despite its sub-$1,000 price, this projector boasts the specs that gamers want without much compromise. Its 8.3ms is a perfectly acceptable response time for even competitive gaming. And, sure, 240 Hz is theoretically better than its 120 Hz but let’s be honest: Most of the devices you’re going to be plugging into this thing don’t output at a frame rate higher than 120fps anyway.

It also offers HDR support and 3500 lumens, so its image is comparable to much more expensive projectors. Best of all, BenQ’s budget model comes in both short-throw (685P) and standard-throw (585P) models, so you can choose the one that works best for your living situation. As you might expect from its price point, however, it lacks certain extra features, such as Alexa and Chromecast integration, but ultimately those differences shouldn’t matter much to seasoned gamers. Overall, these two BenQ budget projectors are extremely strong options for gamers who are curious about projectors but don’t want to step into the deep waters quite yet.

FAQs

Q: How much do the best projectors for gaming cost?

On average, the best projectors for gaming range from $700 – $3,000, depending on the depth of features. That’s more than a new TV (unless it’s a fancy OLED), but that’s the price of portability.

Q: Do gaming projectors experience input lag?

All modern televisions and projectors have some form of input lag, which is listed as the response time in the device’s technical specifications. Though lower is always better, the 4ms to 8ms response times listed for most of our recommended projectors are suitable for even intense action games. Portable projectors have slower response times, but most people will not notice the difference. If you tend to pay attention to such things, we recommend buying a full-sized projector for gaming. If you don’t want any input lag, invest in an old CRT (cathode-ray tube) TV for retro gaming.

Q: What’s the difference between projector frame rate and refresh rate?

The projector frame rate is the number of frames displayed by the projector per second. The refresh rate is the number of times per second that the projector updates. When it comes to gaming, frame rate is determined by the hardware capabilities of your console or PC, as well as the individual game itself. 

The refresh rate is the upper bound of the frame rate that it can display. For example, if I play a competitive shooter like Counter-Strike: Global Offensive on a powerful computer that can output a capped frame rate of 120fps, but I connect it to a projector with a 60Hz refresh rate, the projector will display the game at 60fps. High refresh rates are generally desirable for PC gaming, but most consoles tend to output at 60fps at the high end.

Q: Is a projector better than a TV for gaming?

This really depends on your use case, but generally, no. Televisions tend to offer a better value to gamers per dollar than projectors. You can buy a TV with the same vital gaming stats (response time, resolution support, etc.) as a top-of-the-line projector for a fraction of the price. However, projectors have some advantages over televisions, such as portability and versatility.

A final word on the best projectors for gaming

Ultimately, a nice projector is a great gaming device, though it’s more of a luxury item than a solid TV. If you’re a gamer on the go, however, and you have the budget, our picks will allow you to turn any space into the place for a competitive round or 10. Just add console, friends, and let the heated competition keep you warm while you play on the patio.

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Best desktop speakers of 2023 https://www.popsci.com/reviews/best-desktop-speakers/ Thu, 19 Aug 2021 20:00:00 +0000 https://www.popsci.com/?p=390401
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With the best desktop speakers, you'll get you an A in A/V equipment.

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Best Overall Bose Companion 2 Series III multimedia speakers product card Bose Companion 2 Series III multimedia speakers
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Approachable price, solid sound, and portability come from a manufacturer that’s been synonymous with quality for decades.

Best Gaming Speakers Logitech G560 gaming speakers system Logitech G560 PC gaming speaker system
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Fun and flashy with RGB lights, these immersive gaming speakers sync audio and visuals with gameplay.

Best for sound designers PreSonus Eris E3.5 near-field monitors product card PreSonus Eris E3.5 nearfield monitors
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Make games on the same system where you play games with these entry-level studio monitors.

PCs are called personal computers for a reason. PCs can be productivity machines, gaming devices, methods of connecting with customers and fans, and creative workstations. When setting up a PC, each person has some reason for choosing a desk-bound model over a more portable laptop, but more than likely one of the primary reasons is the customization possibilities. Audio is similarly personal, so it’s important to pick desktop computer speakers for your specific setup and sound preferences. While there are plenty of “good enough” computer speakers on the market, you might as well put that desk space to good use and expand your experience with the best desktop speakers. Here are some of our top picks. 

How we selected the products

The world of speakers is packed with obelisks, ovals, and what can sometimes feel like obstacles. There are all kinds of shapes, sizes, connections, and decoders. Portable wireless speakers, bookshelf speakers, high-end multichannel systems … the list goes on and on. But here we’re talking about small desktop speakers, ​​and we’ve done the research—from hands-on testing to consulting academic articles—to find standout models. We’ve narrowed down our recommendations to only the best desktop speakers—ones that hit the sweet spot between value and performance, sprinkled with some semi-pro aspirations. 

What to consider when shopping for the best desktop speakers

All of the PC speakers presented here are going to give you excellent sound, so the key is knowing what you want your system to do for you. Here are a few questions to ask as you chose.

What makes up the best desktop speakers?

If you want to know what literally makes up a great speaker, we’ve actually written an explainer on the physical build of these ubiquitous devices. If you were more thinking what are the qualities that make a speaker system best for me, the first step is to assess your particular situation. What connections does your PC have? Do you want to be able to uncouple your desktop PC speakers and use them as portable speakers for your laptop? Are you averse to wires or do you appreciate the improved sound they often bring? Do you want impressive bass via a subwoofer? What does your physical space best allow? Does your system have the capacity to push high-quality sound to speakers in the first place? 

The answers to these questions are extremely variable, but the speakers we suggest below are selected to bring compelling capabilities to relatively powerful PCs with a 3.5mm jack, USB 3.0 inputs, and Bluetooth capabilities. Also, keep in mind that these suggestions are based on the idea of a more compact workstation. The more space you have, and the less mobile you care for your gear to be, the larger, more involved an audio set-up can be. The “desk” in desktop is important in this list. 

How much bass is too much bass?

All of our choices offer excellent stereo sound, but small speakers have natural limitations when it comes to low end. With that in mind, some offer an additional subwoofer for more powerful bass. This can be a complication for those who live in apartments and share floors and walls with neighbors, as these sound waves can carry pretty strongly through the bones of a building. However, there are models below that also feature a headphone jack should time of day or reverberation become an issue (plus dedicated wireless gaming headsets, such as the Audeze Penrosereviewed here).

What if I want surround sound?

If you want true surround sound, you’re going to have to aim at a larger system, likely with more space and cost considerations. While there are gaming soundbars that offer virtual surround through formats such as Dolby Atmos systems, and excellent headphones that offer features such as head-tracking and simulate surround, most desktop systems are limited to two channels or two channels and a subwoofer. Some of the higher-end ones, however, do offer virtual surround.

The best desktop speakers: Reviews & Recommendations

Skip staring frustratingly at boxes on a shelf and let us decipher what the best speakers for PC bring to the, well, desktop.

Best overall: Bose Companion 2 Series III multimedia speakers

Bose

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Why it made the cut: The Bose Companion 2 Series III offers great sound for its size, which is a portable package that does everything well enough that it fits “general-use speakers” to a tee.

Specs:

  • Two stereo minitower speakers
  • Auxiliary input 
  • Portable and compact
  • Headphone jack
  • Compatible with Mac or Windows
ProsCons
  • Portable
  • No USB or Bluetooth
  • Easy setup
  • Lacks bass compared to larger options
  • Aux and headphone ports
  • Older model so runs the risk of a revision
  • Sometimes, you have a PC with a purpose and sometimes you want a jack of all trades. The same can be true of your speakers. The Bose Companion 2 Series III isn’t the newest model on the market and it’s not built for a specific task. What these Bose computer speakers offer is sound that does good work in nearly any situation and can be easily moved from PC to laptop and even connected to an Amazon Echo or other auxiliary device via a wired connection. Set up on the Bose Companion 2 Series III is incredibly simple: it’s plug-and-play, using a 3.5mm aux cord from your headphone (or dedicated speaker) jack. Power is via DC adapter, and a cable between the left and right speaker is required so placement will be limited by cord length and outlet placement. Additionally, you can’t connect a subwoofer to the Companion 2. But these speakers still impress with how they present streaming media or games. Sound is extremely consistent in the Companion 2. There is very little distortion even at high volumes. Even without a subwoofer, the bass from the stereo speakers is pretty impressive. While these speakers can push max volume, you probably won’t need to be there. It’s likely best to set these at around 75 percent and then adjust the volume from the computer itself as you see fit.

    The mini-tower-shaped Companion 2 speakers measure 7.5 inches high by 3.1 inches wide by 5.9 inches deep and fit easily beside a monitor or stand about as tall as a laptop screen. And if one family member needs the communal computer and someone wants to watch YouTube or play games, etc., these speakers transport easily to any device with a compatible outlet. They’re also perfect for a college student’s desktop, now that many college projects can require multimedia including audio and video editing. Plus a headphone jack on the front panel lets you tune out/not disturb your roommate. If you’re looking for something entry-level, these small speakers are a bargain. But if you prefer something more spherical and striking while still compact, there’s always the Creative Pebble 2.0 USB-powered desktop speakers for the maximized minimalist.

    Best gaming speakers: Logitech G560 gaming speaker system

    Logitech

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    Why it made the cut: A great value for gaming speakers with a built-in light show and virtual 3D sound capabilities.

    Specs:

    • Two speakers and a subwoofer
    • LIGHTSYNC RGB dynamic lighting
    • Bluetooth, USB, and 3.5mm options
    • DTS:X Positional Audio
    • 240 watts peak power
    ProsCons
  • LIGHTSYNC support
  • Lights only work with USB
  • Expressive bass
  • Software required for fine tuning
  • Multiple connection types
  • Volume may be more than comfortable in small spaces
  • Gaming is a feast for the senses and many set-ups now include RGB lights in monitors, keyboards, mice, and yes, even speakers. The best desktop speakers for gaming are here. With an aesthetic verging on cyberpunk, the Logitech G560 gaming speakers’ key selling point is pairing audio with visuals that enhance an in-game, out-of-this-world experience. While having a light show doesn’t really matter for an office workstation, it’s incredibly fun at home, especially if you’re streaming for your friends and/or fans. Connect the satellite speakers to your computer via USB and your in-game movements and attacks can be punctuated by blasts of red, green, and blue (and all the 16.8 million color combinations Logitech’s LIGHTSYNC systems afford). Setting up this feature is easy, and can even be applied to music played off the PC if you want to throw a mini-rave at your house.

    The included down-firing subwoofer means that low end, not just light is king in this system. The volume of these Logitech computer speakers may actually be too powerful for some players, so make sure to adjust your settings accordingly and be careful if you’re in an apartment, bedroom, or dorm room, etc., with thin walls. Logitech includes software that allows a greater degree of customizability in the sound output than simple 3.5mm-only connections would (though both 3.5mm and Bluetooth connections are supported). Plus, DTS:X compatibility renders positional audio in a virtual 7.1 3D environment.

    Best for cinema sound: Klipsch ProMedia 2.1 THX-certified computer speaker system

    Klipsch

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    Why it made the cut: THX made its name as a leap forward in cinema sound and that impactful experience is now available in a smaller 2.1 stereo system for your desktop PC.

    Specs:

    • Two speakers and a subwoofer
    • THX Certified
    • 3.5mm to RCA connection
    • Headphone output
    • 260 watts peak power
    ProsCons
  • Top-quality sound
  • 3.5mm input only
  • Solid construction
  • High sound output may never be used
  • Lower price point that many comparable models
  • Not expandable or upgradable
  • Once upon a time, seeing the THX soundcard before a movie meant something. Before there was Dolby Atmos in theaters, etc., seeing those three letters meant that you would be rattled when the tyrannosaurus rex in “Jurassic Park” ran across the screen. “The audience is listening” became a meme before memes were memes and was parodied in cartoon shows of the era. THX technology was amazing then, producing big, boisterous sound, and it’s still amazing now that it’s been shrunk down into smaller, personal speaker systems.

    Very reasonably priced compared to some of its more powerful cinephile siblings, the Klipsch ProMedia 2.1 desktop speakers offer thick, warm sound that is perfect if your PC doubles as your TV. While tablets may offer more portability, and a TV may offer a larger screen, a PC can push higher-quality resolution at a cheaper price. Combine that with a set of ProMedia speakers and you can push cinema-quality sound at a cheaper price as well. This system is perfect for those who live in a smaller apartment or who simply prefer to fold their media options into one great set-up.

    At the high end, the 260W peak Klipsch ProMedia 2.1 system’s 3-inch drivers can produce intense volume and its 6.5-inch side-firing subwoofer offers booming bass, but controls for both sit on one of the stereo speakers (or can be adjusted from your computer). Being 3.5mm input-based, the whole system can be plugged into almost any device with audio out. The stereo speakers are quite large and weighty, with plastic stands that angle them slightly and keep them elevated off a chosen surface, so you can be assured of stable sound and gear that won’t tip over from an accidental bump. If cinema stereo is your goal, the ProMedia is a solid, cost-conscious choice, with an attractive black-all-over aesthetic that blends in with most workspaces. The ProMedia satellites look like miniature theater speakers, but the sound is anything but tiny.

    Best speakers for Twitch knob twiddlers: Pioneer DJ VM-50 studio monitor

    Pioneer

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    Why it made the cut: The next step beyond a “stereo system,” the Pioneer DJ VM-50s are the entry point into professional-level sound production monitors offering a lot of value in a smaller, desktop-friendly package.

    Specs:

    • Single monitor (must buy two for stereo sound)
    • 5.25-inch woofer
    • Internally powered
    • 60 watts peak power
    • Maximum sound pressure 107db
    • XLR, TRS, and RCA connections
    ProsCons
  • Pro-level sound
  • Flatter response may not satisfy bassheads
  • Complements sound-mixing equipment
  • Larger than most all-in-one system speakers
  • Sturdier than typical all-in-one systems
  • Must buy two
  • To this point, we’ve been profiling out-of-the-box stereo and stereo-plus-subwoofer systems that are meant to be a catch-all solution for personal playback. However, thanks to the rise of SoundCloud, social media, and affordable digital audio workstations, bedroom music production is very much a thing and a bedroom DJ needs a more accurate soundfield than an off-the-shelf all-in-one system can offer. A pair of Pioneer DJ VM-50s is a perfect home production compromise between price and quality. Twitch streaming channels include live DJs and these performances pull in tens of thousands of viewers. But crafting the perfect mix from home requires equipment that can produce a precise, yet punchy sound. The VM-50s feature 5.25-inch woofers and clean Class D amplification, driving a 40Hz to 36kHz frequency response. They connect via XLR, TRS, or RCA, and project whatever they are fed into a wide sweet spot that remains crisp, clean, and detailed. There’s excellent separation of frequencies and imaging, allowing you to pick out every beat you need to match (or every shot you need to avoid if you do decide to game through them). While they’re more specialized, a pair of VM-50s will help you thrill the anonymous crowd generating fire emojis as you pump out sick jams or quick shots. If your idea of gaming is seeing how you can get others to move, and a set at Coachella is your aspiration, the Pioneer VM-50s desktop speakers are an excellent starting point.

    Best for gamers wanting to be sound designers: PreSonus Eris E3.5 near-field studio monitors

    PreSonus

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    Why it made the cut: Not just another basic pair of speakers, these studio monitors come with sound production software to kickstart your sound design project.

    Specs:

    • Two monitors (one internally powered, one not)
    • 3.5-inch drivers
    • 1-inch frequency transducers
    • High- and low-frequency control
    • Headphone jack
    • Bluetooth 5.0, RCA, TRS, and Aux In connections
    • 50 watts peak power
    ProsCons
  • Great value-added software
  • Can pick up slight interference
  • Bluetooth adds versatility
  • May not be bassy enough for some
  • The PreSonus Eris E3.5s (also available in the larger E4.5 model) are a compact set of Bluetooth-enabled studio monitors. As studio monitors go they are entry-level, but a step up from many desktop stereo speaker sets if you fancy sound design. Their 3.5-inch woofers and 1-inch silk-dome tweeters present an 80 Hz – 20 kHz frequency range. Beyond the smooth, consistent response, these are perfect as an entry point into production, as they come bundled with the Studio One Prime and Studio Magic Software Suite, giving you of the best music production software to edit or design sound for games, online video, and music. The Eris E3.5s are an excellent opportunity for someone to get a respectable pair of speakers while dipping their toe into sound creation. 

    Sound-wise, these desktop speakers may be the exception to the “you get what you pay for” rule. The sound quality is impressive for the price, and the wealth of connections (including TRS, RCA, a 3.5mm jack in, and a similarly-sized headphone jack out for private monitoring) add convenience. The speakers are even great without a wired connection (because you should always want to know what your banger will sound like to the average listener streaming it wirelessly, as many people now do). What’s more, they travel extremely well, setting up quickly with power cords and quick speaker wire between the two. The durability is impressive given the size and price point. Great with a PC, great with a turntable, and compatible with a wide variety of portable devices via Bluetooth, the Eris E3.5s are not nearly the compromise you’d expect given their price point. These speakers are great for creatives, occasional creatives, or even once-in-a-blue-moon creatives because the price package makes the creative aspect almost a free bonus.

    Best budget: Monoprice DT-3BT Multimedia Desktop Powered Speakers

    Monoprice

    SEE IT

    Why it made the cut: With good whole spectrum sound that hits 20 kHz, these Bluetooth and aux-enabled speakers are a great desktop solution to studio sound.

    Specs:

    • Two monitors (each internally powered)
    • 3.5-inch polypropylene woofers
    • 0.75-inch silk dome tweeters
    • 3.5mm unbalanced headphone jack on front panel
    • 75 Hz–20 kHz frequency response
    • 2x 12-watt amplifiers for woofers, 2x 8-watt amplifiers for tweeters
    • Bluetooth, Aux cable, RCA, balanced ¼ inch stereo connection
    ProsCons
  • Easy connection with Bluetooth or Aux
  • Could use a subwoofer for better bass response
  • Decent frequency response
  • Built-in discrete amplifiers
  • If you’re after a simple solution for desktop sound, then the Monoprice DT-3BT Multimedia Desktop Powered Speakers do an excellent job for most of the media crossing your office desk. With Bluetooth connectivity as a central part of this speaker pair, these speakers sit at the crossroads of home audio, easily connecting with newer digital audio devices via wireless or auxiliary connections, without forgetting about higher-end audio gear and entertainment systems, which are supported via unbalanced RCA connections, and balanced ¼ inch connections.

    The DT-3BT is a solid full-spectrum speaker that will do a good job with most of the audio you’ll encounter, though its 75 Hz bottom-end cutoff will be improved with a good subwoofer for truly extended low-end rumble. Its silk tweeters sound good and hit a respectable 20 kHz, which is towards the high end of most people’s hearing. The speakers are further supported with built-in discrete amplifiers on each channel. With so many ways to connect, and even an earphone connection to help when you’re looking for audio privacy, the DT-3BT is an easy choice for those looking for an easy one-stop-shop to improve their home audio.

    FAQs

    Q: Are wireless computer speakers any good?

    Good’s a relative term here. There are plenty of high-quality wireless speakers that give you the benefit of easier placement and set-up than wired speakers but, in general, you’re not going to get as good of a sound from a wireless connection as a wired connection. Part of that depends on the types of Bluetooth connections supported by your speakers and source (for instance, aptX HD and LDAC are noticeably higher quality than SBC). Though, honestly, not everyone can pick up on the differences. If your particular needs and setup benefit more from versatility and the hassle-free nature of wireless than they would for a perhaps barely-perceptible-to-you increase in sound quality, wireless might be the way you want to go. Many higher-end models offer modal connections, with wireless, USB, and traditional wired options. They tend to improve in quality in that very order.

    Q: Are USB speakers better?

    USB has come a long way and there are many USB speakers using the latest protocols that are comparable to speakers using the speaker jack. If you’re looking at cheap USB speakers from a random Amazon vendor or even from your average big-box store, you’re probably going to be disappointed, but high-quality companies do produce high-quality USB speakers. However, as in most cases with electronics, you get what you pay for. For speakers with additional features that have to communicate with computer software to function (such as synchronized lighting effects), USB is a must though, as a 3.5mm connection simply can’t carry the necessary digital information.

    Q: How much do computer speakers cost?

    Dirt cheap, tinny computer speakers exist and can be had for less than $10 at office supply stores, big-box retailers, and discount stores. The lowest-quality models from reputable brands start around $20-30 at online sites. If you care about sound beyond “I care that I can hear it,” you’re probably going to be looking at models that start at a bare minimum of around $100 (and could top out in the multi-hundreds). There is value at every price point, but the sacrifice in quality for value at the lower end is not necessarily recommendable.

    The final word on the best desktop speakers

    While “a pair of speakers” seems a simple proposition, choices can get complicated when it comes to individual needs. All the options above represent good values for the money and feature quality above a no-name off-the-shelf brand. As always, assessing the most common paces and places you plan to put your speakers through will lead you to a sound system with little to no regrets. Don’t feel like you need every option. If you don’t like pumping bass, skip the systems with a subwoofer. If you hate seeing bunches of wires, go for Bluetooth. You don’t always need the best sound, you need the best sound for you.

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    Purchase a 3-month Xbox Live Gold subscription on sale https://www.popsci.com/gear/xbox-live-gold-subscription-sale/ Fri, 23 Sep 2022 13:00:00 +0000 https://www.popsci.com/?p=471916
    An Xbox controller on a black background
    Stack Commerce

    With Gold, you can access more games and features not normally accessible otherwise.

    The post Purchase a 3-month Xbox Live Gold subscription on sale appeared first on Popular Science.

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    Stack Commerce

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    It is difficult to find someone these days who doesn’t enjoy playing video games. As time goes on, video games continue to improve in terms of playability and graphics, and they also appeal to a much wider audience than ever before.

    While you may be always looking for ways to upgrade your gaming, one thing is for sure: the best way to really upgrade it is to invest in a premium product. Fortunately right now Xbox Live Gold is offering a 3-month subscription for a discounted price.

    Xbox Live Gold provides its users with an opportunity to indulge in an exciting social entertainment network in the world of Xbox One and Xbox 360. With Gold you can expect to experience a growing library of free titles, from multiplayer shooters to family favorites. You will get 2-4 free games each month, as well as up to 50-75 percent discounts in the store on Xbox One. In addition, you will receive multiplayer invites while watching TV, and you will experience a cloud-hosted multiplayer that helps eliminate lag and cheating.

    Xbox Gold offers an opportunity for a person who is serious about their gaming to upgrade their experience. Amongst customers, it’s highly regarded, with one verified purchaser saying, “If you like free games purchase this membership. You really need this for Xbox for a better gaming experience.” Another verified customer felt strongly that Gold is a requirement for the best gaming experience possible, stating, “Xbox Live Gold is a necessity for Xbox gamers. Microsoft thrives in the multiplayer space, and you are locking yourself out of a lot of fantastic content if you stick to single-player only.”

    Right now you can purchase a 3-month subscription of Xbox Live Gold for $19.99. That’s a 20 percent markdown from its MSRP of $24.

    Prices subject to change.

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    Nvidia announces GeForce RTX 4080 and 4090 GPUs https://www.popsci.com/gear/nvidia-geforce-rtx-4080-4090-gpu-news/ Tue, 20 Sep 2022 21:00:00 +0000 https://www.popsci.com/?p=471268
    Nvidia RTX 4080 News
    Nvidia

    With a new architecture, Nvidia’s next line of graphics processing units will provide a lot more power.

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    Nvidia RTX 4080 News
    Nvidia

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    Kicking off its GTC 2022 conference on Tuesday, Sept. 20, Nvidia unveiled a pair of new graphics cards, the GeForce RTX 4080 and RTX 4090, which feature the company’s next-generation Ada Lovelace architecture. This new GPU architecture promises to be more efficient than previous generations while taking big steps forward in performance and AI-powered graphics.

    Nvidia CEO Jensen Huang described the Lovelace architecture as a “quantum leap” for gaming. The cards feature 76 billion transistors, which allows them to deliver better performance in a more efficient package. It also supports an upgraded version of Nvidia’s Deep Learning Super Sampling, or DLSS, which uses artificial intelligence to enhance specific games’ fidelity and performance. Huang promised the RTX 4090 will offer up to “four times the performance” of its current top-of-the-line GPU, the GeForce RTX 3090 Ti. All that power requires a serious amount of juice, though: The new GPU will consume the same 450W of electricity as Nvidia’s high-end 30-series graphics cards.

    The GeForce RTX 4090 features a monstrous 24GB of GDDR6X memory, along with 16,384 CUDA cores (up from the 3090’s 10,496 CUDA cores) and a base clock of 2.23GHz that you can overclock to 2.52GHz. It also has 1,321 Tensor-TFLOPS, 191 RT-TFLOPS, and 83 Shader-TFLOPS, allowing you to enjoy games that offer more advanced graphics and artificial intelligence. Put it all together, and Nvidia claims these specs can consistently deliver 4K gameplay at over 100 frames per second.

    The GeForce RTX 4080 will also empower incredible performance. Nvidia claims it is four times faster than the GeForce RTX 3080 Ti. Whether it’s two times more powerful or four times may come down to which of the two memory configurations you purchase. Though they’re defined by their memory—there’s a 12GB GDDR6X model and a 16GB GDDR6X model—they feature a very different set of specs.

    Nvidia RTX 4080 News
    There are actually two versions of the Nvidia GeForce 4080, with different specs and prices. Nvidia

    The 12GB GDDR6X GeForce RTX 4080 features 7,680 CUDA Cores, a base clock of 2.31GHz that boosts up to 2.61GHz, 639 Tensor-TFLOPS, 92 RT-TFLOPS, and 40 Shader-TFLOPS. 

    The 16GB GDDR6X GeForce RTX 4080 features 9,728 CUDA cores, a base clock of 2.21GHz that boosts up to 2.51GHz, 780 Tensor-TFLOPS, 113 RT-TFLOPS, and 49 Shader-TFLOPS of power. Essentially, these cards will be able to display higher fidelity graphics with more lifelike lighting, while offering improved power-efficiency.

    Both RTX 40-series cards also feature some new hardware features, including real-time path tracing, a more advanced form of ray tracing that simulates the natural path of light by bouncing back on a single pixel in random directions. This provides gamers with a more faithful reproduction of light, so games are more immersive and lifelike.

    Though all of these cards are incredibly powerful, the newly upgraded DLSS 3.0 may be the most important feature for Nvidia GPUs moving forward. According to Huang, DLSS 3 is capable of generating additional frames of gameplay without involving the game, allowing the GPU to effectively boost frame rate and performance even if a game is maxing out your CPU. Nvidia showed off the new RTX-specific optimizations with gameplay from Microsoft Flight Simulator 2020, a very resource-intensive game, that ran smoothly in 4K resolution with frame rates reaching in the 100s even in busier, more graphically demanding areas.

    The Ada Lovelace architecture includes third-generation RT cores, which greatly enhance in-game lighting. Nvidia said this is thanks to two new hardware units. The Opacity Micromap Engine can double raw ray-tracing performance, while the Micro-Mesh Engine can increase the amount of geometric coverage without hits to storage or performance.

    If you’re in the market for a very powerful, very expensive graphics card, you won’t have to wait long to get your hands on the Nvidia 40-series. The GeForce RTX 4090 will launch Oct. 12, for an extremely luxurious $1,599. The GeForce RTX 3080 cards will launch in November at $899 for the 12GB version and $1,199 for the 16GB model. As always, you can expect custom versions from all the usual third-party GPU manufacturers, including Asus, Gigabyte, and MSI. You will also see configurations of pre-built desktops from manufacturers like Acer, Alienware, ASUS, Dell, HP, Lenovo, and MSI popping up in the near future.

    The post Nvidia announces GeForce RTX 4080 and 4090 GPUs appeared first on Popular Science.

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    Hacker may have just leaked early ‘Grand Theft Auto 6’ footage https://www.popsci.com/technology/grand-theft-auto-6-leak/ Mon, 19 Sep 2022 16:30:00 +0000 https://www.popsci.com/?p=470848
    Person from behind wearing headphones.
    The hacker also claimed on GTA Forums they are attempting to extort Rockstar in exchange for the remaining unreleased data. Stack Commerce

    There are some serious similarities between Rockstar Games' headache and the one experienced by Uber last week.

    The post Hacker may have just leaked early ‘Grand Theft Auto 6’ footage appeared first on Popular Science.

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    Person from behind wearing headphones.
    The hacker also claimed on GTA Forums they are attempting to extort Rockstar in exchange for the remaining unreleased data. Stack Commerce

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    Rockstar Games, makers of the massively popular Grand Theft Auto video game series, confirmed this morning it suffered a major data breach over the weekend—and there are early indications a recently notorious hacker might be responsible. Just before 3:30 a.m. yesterday, over 90 video files showcasing early alpha design footage from the much anticipated Grand Theft Auto 6 were posted to the fan site, GTA Forums, from the username “teapotuberhacker.” The same user posted a tease for additional releases of “GTA 5 and 6 source code and assets, [and the] GTA 6 testing build.” It’s already considered to be one of the largest leaks in video game history.

    [Related: Teaching machines to drive with ‘Grand Theft Auto.’]

    Aside from the pseudonym’s reference, multiple outlets note there are already some similarities between this jaw-dropping hack and last week’s debacle at Uber. A purportedly 18-year-old teenager pulled one of the oldest tricks in the book to gain access to essentially all of the ridesharing company’s data stores and Slack channels just days ago.

    “We recently suffered a network intrusion in which an unauthorized third party illegally accessed and downloaded confidential information from our systems, including early development footage for the next Grand Theft Auto [sic],” Rockstar Games posted to Twitter this morning. “At this time, we do not anticipate any disruption to our live game services nor any long-term effect on the development of our ongoing projects.”

    As Forbes and elsewhere note, “teapotuberhacker” references gaining access to Rockstar’s Slack server, as well as its team-working Confluence wiki, recalling the same methods used by Uber’s online intruder. The hacker also claimed on GTA Forums they are attempting to extort Rockstar in exchange for the remaining unreleased data, including GTA 6‘s source code. Still, the theory that the same young hacker is behind both stunts is currently unconfirmed.

    PopSci will continue to monitor the ongoing TeaPots hacker saga, and update accordingly.

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    6 ways to fight back against motion sickness while gaming https://www.popsci.com/story/diy/how-to-fight-gaming-motion-sickness/ Tue, 02 Feb 2021 13:00:00 +0000 https://stg.popsci.com/uncategorized/how-to-stop-motion-sickness-gaming/
    A woman wearing white headphones playing League of Legends on a triple-monitor setup.
    Immersive displays are more likely to make you dizzy if you're prone to cybersickness. RODNAE Productions / Pexels

    Cybersickness is like getting carsick without the car.

    The post 6 ways to fight back against motion sickness while gaming appeared first on Popular Science.

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    A woman wearing white headphones playing League of Legends on a triple-monitor setup.
    Immersive displays are more likely to make you dizzy if you're prone to cybersickness. RODNAE Productions / Pexels

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    This story has been updated. It was originally published on February 2, 2021.

    Some people just cannot play first-person video games, no matter how much they like them. It’s not a question of talent—the games just make them physically ill. We’re talking about gaming sickness, a kind of motion sickness some people experience specifically when playing video games, and that comes with all the symptoms you probably already know: dizziness, nausea, sweating, headaches, and even vomiting.

    If you suffer from cybersickness and are looking for a solution that will let you play long enough to finally finish Elden Ring, let us break the bad news: Unfortunately, there’s no scientific evidence that you’ll ever free yourself from the annoying grasp of gaming-related motion sickness.

    But just like with regular motion sickness, there are things you can do to delay your symptoms, decrease their intensity, and even train your brain to stop triggering them.

    And as much as you may want to play through the pain—don’t. It won’t work.

    What causes motion sickness in gaming

    We’ve got more disappointing news for you: we don’t really know what causes motion sickness while you’re gaming. But the most popular theory points to sensory conflict as the culprit—this is when your brain receives information that doesn’t match its expectations for how the world should work, causing it to get disoriented.

    For example, when you walk down the street, your eyes see buildings go by and the movement of the people around you. Meanwhile, your inner ear—the organ in charge of your balance and sense of motion—corroborates this information by telling your brain that yes, you’re indeed moving. There’s no conflict. Everything is peachy.

    [Related: Stressed out? Video games can help—if you follow these tips.]

    Video games can mess up this sensory balance and affect certain people in different ways. If you’re prone to motion sickness while gaming—especially when playing titles from first-person series such as Call of Duty, Dishonored, and Borderlands—there may be a disconnect between what your eyes see and what your inner ear detects. On one hand, you see realistic movement on the screen designed to make you feel immersed in the game. On the other, your inner ear tells your brain there’s no movement at all—that you’re just sitting on your couch or your very expensive gaming chair. Those mixed messages make the brain freak out and generate a stress response, and that’s when gaming sickness occurs.

    Keep it short

    If you’re concerned about the negative effects of video games, the most reliable counter to video game-induced motion sickness is to play challenging games slowly, over a series of brief sessions, says Séamas Weech, a postdoctoral research fellow at McGill University, whose work focuses on understanding cybersickness in virtual reality. This allows the brain and body to build up a tolerance—a process those in Weech’s field call “getting your legs.”

    “Training users to become immune to motion sickness is an intensely active area of research. Although we have no Holy Grail, we have learned a lot,” Weech says. “The best safeguard is to avoid challenging the sensory systems in the first place.”

    That’s why struggling through the discomfort won’t help you—it overloads your senses. Instead, take a break as soon as you start feeling sick, wait until your symptoms have subsided, and only then try again.

    Your previous experience with video games and the particular title you’re playing is key to whether this method will work for you, and how well, says Weech. These variables are the reason why there’s no saying how fast you’ll be able to increase your play time or how long it will take you to get fully used to the game you’re playing—if ever.

    Avoid the big screens—and the small ones, too

    We like huge displays because they allow us to see pictures in more detail, but also because they make it easier for us to immerse ourselves into what we’re watching, be it a movie or a video game. But this is exactly why you should not use one if you suffer from cybersickness.

    Smaller screens are better: they won’t take up your entire field of vision, constantly reminding your brain that you’re actually in a room and the movement you see is only an image on a screen. “The room provides a stable visual reference that keeps the player grounded in the real world, which will reduce sensory conflicts,” says Weech.

    If you already have a big flat-screen TV or monitor that is now making you nauseous, you don’t need to throw it away—sitting farther away from it will have a similar effect.

    But don’t go too small and confine your gaming to your smartphone. Tiny screens require you to strain your eyes to make out fine details, so you’ll most likely end up with a headache, another common and annoying symptom of gaming sickness.

    Keep it lit

    Ditch those LED strips you saw on TikTok, or those fairy lights that have been hanging around your window for years, and turn on a proper lamp to light up your space.

    This has a double effect. First, playing games in a well-lit room will prevent you from exerting your eyes, which will help you avoid a headache. Second, illuminating your surroundings will help your eyes understand that you’re actually in a room, not fighting zombies on the Titanic.

    Control the elements

    Because cybersickness is a form of motion sickness, most things that alleviate the symptoms of one work for the other—including getting some fresh air on your face and drinking cool water.

    You can enjoy the breeze while you walk or sit outside on one of your breaks, or you can point a fan at yourself while you play. Weech says the latter can actually help generate the sense of physical motion that is usually absent when gaming, which will lead to less sensory conflict. Meanwhile, cool water will help settle your stomach when you start feeling sweaty or nauseous.

    Get some backup

    Some in the gaming community see gaming sickness as a weakness, but there’s absolutely no shame in getting some help if it means reducing discomfort and playing for a while longer.

    Some studies show that ginger can have a therapeutic effect on nausea, though whether it brings significant or mild relief varies from person to person. You can try ginger tea, ginger beer, or even ginger candy. If you prefer to try ingesting it as a supplement, be sure to consult your doctor before you do so.

    Another method designed to fight regular motion sickness but is also used by gamers is wearing acupressure wristbands. These bracelets look a lot like something John McEnroe might have worn on a tennis court in the ’70s, but they have a plastic insert that applies pressure to a point on the underside of your forearm, just below the wrist. Known as the P6, this acupressure point is three fingers (about 1 to 2 inches) below the base of your hand, and pressing it constantly can help relieve nausea and dizziness. If you don’t have these bands, you can achieve the same effect with your thumb.

    Motion sickness glasses like the Seetröen use liquid to act as a visual reminder to your brain of the location of the horizon line. Citröen, the French car company that developed them, say they cure 95 percent of motion sickness, but there is no evidence whether or not they will work for cybersickness. If you already have some or are running out of options, though, they may be worth a shot. 

    Gaming glasses, on the other hand, reduce eye strain and blue light, so they may be able to prevent headaches. But just as with motion sickness glasses, there are no studies that prove these spectacles are good at calming or preventing cybersickness. 

    If all else fails, change the game

    Some games are worse than others when it comes to motion sickness. First-person shooting games are the No. 1 culprit, while anything with super-realistic graphics can make some people’s world spin round and round in a second. If nothing’s working for you, we’re sorry, but you might have to stop playing that title entirely.

    [Related: Video gaming is for everybody now. Here’s how to get back into it.]

    But before you give up your favorite game, see if it’s possible to change the sensitivity settings or the player’s point of view. Going from only seeing your character’s hands to seeing their entire back can help a lot, while reducing the speed of the camera movements and the bobbing of the head and guns can also make a huge difference. Don’t forget to check your screen’s settings, too—high refresh-rate displays can be nauseogenic, so bump those frames-per-second down a bit or change your display to something slower.

    And if you’re still getting motion sickness, you may want to try another kind of game: third-person narrative, puzzle games, a vintage 2D title, or pre-Nintendo 64 Mario Bros., to name a few. It might be disappointing, but you may have to build up your tolerance so you can finally play titles like Halo or Apex Legends. Getting your body used to less-complex games first is a great segue into highly realistic graphics and fast camera movements.

    Remember: torturing yourself by enduring your symptoms won’t help them go away any faster. Take it slow and enjoy your playtime. Games should be fun, after all.

    The post 6 ways to fight back against motion sickness while gaming appeared first on Popular Science.

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    Best external hard drives for PS5 of 2023 https://www.popsci.com/gear/best-external-hard-drives-for-ps5/ Fri, 09 Sep 2022 13:00:00 +0000 https://www.popsci.com/?p=468091
    Best External Hard Drives for PS5
    Mike Epstein

    Store more and worry less when it comes to your PS5's game library.

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    Best External Hard Drives for PS5
    Mike Epstein

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    Best overall Seagate Game Drive for PlayStation Consoles 4TB is the best overall external hard drive for PS5. Seagate Game Drive for PlayStation Consoles 4TB
    SEE IT

    The PlayStation-themed Seagate Game Drive offers a good amount of storage and a subtle design.

    Best value Western Digital 8TB Elements Desktop Hard Drive is the best value external hard drive for PS5. Western Digital 8TB Elements Desktop Hard Drive
    SEE IT

    The Western Digital 8TB Elements hard drive lets you max out your external storage for the best possible price.

    Best high-speed Samsung T7 Shield 2TB Portable SSD is the best high speed external hard drive for PS5. Samsung T7 Shield 2TB, Portable SSD
    SEE IT

    If you want the fastest read and write speeds, despite the PS5’s limitations, the Samsung T7 Shield is a very capable external SSD.

    The PlayStation 5 features an ultra-fast solid state drive that loads games incredibly fast but it doesn’t offer a huge amount of storage, which is why you should consider attaching an external hard drive. The internal 825GB hard drive feels incredibly small at a time when some games can take up more than 100GB. If you play a lot of games—or just a few of the right ones—you’re going to max that out pretty quickly. The PS5 offers two ways to create more room for games on your console. You can install an M.2 drive for high-speed internal storage, or use an external hard drive to store PS4 games or put PS5 games in “cold storage.” The best external hard drives for PS5 can give you tons of extra storage for older games, so you can save your speedy SSD for your most important games.

    How we picked the best PS5 external hard drives

    I’ve covered game consoles and computers for publications like TechnoBuffalo, The Tech Report, and GameSpot. To pick out drives for this piece, I researched the best-known brands and looked for the most interesting drives: the fastest, the cheapest, the smallest, the most rugged. I also cross-referenced those findings with reviews from critics, peers, and typical users to get a sense of which drives paired well with a PS5 and which ones didn’t.

    Things to consider before buying an external hard drive for PS5

    The PS5’s internal storage fills up quickly; the console’s operating system takes up a notable, noticeable percentage of the space, so you have only 670GB for games and apps when you first boot up. Adding some more hard drive space is a worthwhile investment if you plan to play lots of different games, which is more likely than ever thanks to Sony’s expanded PlayStation Plus program. That said, external hard drives work differently on the PS5. Here are a few things you should know before buying one:

    You can’t play PS5 games off an external hard drive

    Let’s start with the most important thing: The PlayStation 5 cannot run PS5 games off an external hard drive. PS5 games need to boot off a fast SSD, similar to the one in the system. No external enclosures, even ones with a high-speed SSD, can easily run PS5 games. There is a way to expand your internal storage by installing a high-speed M.2 SSD inside your console; to learn more about how to do that, check out our explainer on the topic.

    There are still plenty of things you and your PS5 can do with an external hard drive. First and foremost, it can run PlayStation 4 games. If you had a PS4 for years before getting a PS5, you’ll be able to store and have access to a large number of your last-gen games without taking up room on the PS5’s hard drive. It’s also worth noting that there’s still a steady stream of new games, especially smaller indies, that are technically PS4 games.

    You can also store PS5 games on your external hard drive in “cold storage,” where you can’t play them. If you have a data cap or a spotty internet connection, this allows you to install and uninstall games without connecting to PSN. You’ll still have to manage your hard drive, but it’ll lift some of the burden off your network.

    External hard drives and the PlayStation 5

    Sony has some recommended guidelines and restrictions for PS5 external hard drives. None of them are terribly demanding but they are worth keeping in mind as you search for a new drive, especially if you’re considering repurposing an older one that you’ve been using with a PC or another console:

    • Minimum speed: USB 3.0 or later
    • Storage capacity: 250 GB minimum, 8 TB maximum capacity.
    • You can’t connect the drive through a USB hub.
    • The PS5 can only read one external hard drive at a time. You can plug in two, but you’ll need to switch between them.

    As with using an external hard drive for Xbox One, you will need to format your hard drive specifically to store PlayStation games, which means you will need a dedicated hard drive for the console. You cannot use an external hard drive to store PS4 games and backup your PC at the same time, for example.

    It’s also worth noting that the PS5 caps the speeds on some high-end hard drives. Specifically, USB 3.2 Gen 1 connections are capped at 5 Gbps and USB 3.2 Gen 2 connections are capped at 10Gbps. Without diving too deep into the distinctions between the many, many versions of USB, it’s important to note that the PS5 can’t get top speeds out of high-end hard drives, so it’s better to focus on getting something affordable that fits within Sony’s suggested specs.

    What games do you play?

    Most games—even the new ones for the latest systems—typically take up around 30-40 GB of hard drive space. But then there are games like Gran Turismo 7, which takes up 183GB, more space than the PlayStation 5 operating system, or Ghost of Tsushima: Director’s Cut, which needs 122GB of disk space. 

    Take a quick look at the install sizes of the games you play the most, and let that serve as a guide for how much storage you think you’ll need.

    If your PS5’s internal drive is almost full already, you might want to skip this list entirely and jump straight to installing a Sony-approved M.2 drive, though that’s going to be somewhat of an edge case for most users.

    Best external hard drives for PS5: Reviews & Recommendations

    The best external hard drives for PS5 run the gamut from small, cheap drives to store a few games to fast drives that may be able to store your whole collection. Since the absolute best of the best would be overkill, given the PS5’s hardware restrictions, we’ve focused on drives that offer a good balance of speed and storage capacity. That said, any drive that meets the PS5’s requirements should work well, and will be easy to set up.

    Best overall: Seagate Game Drive for PlayStation Consoles 4TB

    Seagate

    SEE IT

    Buy it used or refurbished: Amazon

    Why it made the cut: The PlayStation-themed Seagate Game Drive offers a good amount of storage and a subtle design.

    Specs

    • Capacity: 4TB
    • Drive type: HDD
    • USB type: USB 3.0

    Pros

    • Reasonably priced
    • PlayStation branding makes it easy to match to your gear
    • Tons more space compared to the PS5’s on-board storage

    Cons

    • HDD, not SSD
    • Smaller capacity may not be as good for upcoming PS5 games

    Though the PlayStation connection is purely cosmetic, Seagate’s Game Drive for PlayStation consoles balances speed, storage capacity, and price very well. The 4TB model gives you a ton of space for new and old PS4 games for a very reasonable price. Plus, it’s small and portable, making it a great vehicle for transferring games from a PS4 to a PS5.

    Best value: Western Digital 8TB Elements Desktop Hard Drive

    Western Digital

    SEE IT

    Buy it used or refurbished: eBay

    Why it made the cut: If you’re counting bytes per dollar, the Western Digital 8TB Elements Hard Drive is a great deal.

    Specs

    • Capacity: 8TB
    • Drive type: HDD
    • USB type: USB 3.0

    Pros

    • Tons of storage
    • Best value per dollar at the time of writing

    Cons

    • Requires a separate power adapter (included)

    You usually need to look at really external hard drives to get the best value-per-byte from a new storage device. With the PS5’s 8TB limit, this is as high as we can go. Western Digital’s 8TB Elements drive will give you lots of storage for the best value right now—just about anything else is going to cost you at least a few dollars more. Unlike many of our picks, which are small and portable, this is a large desktop hard drive that needs to draw power from an outlet. Just plug it in, hide it in the back of your media cabinet, and you’ve got a secret treasure trove of PlayStation 4 games.

    Best themed hard drive: Seagate Horizon Forbidden West Limited Edition Game Drive

    Seagate

    SEE IT

    Buy it used or refurbished: eBay

    Why it made the cut: This special edition version of our top pick features a neat design based on one of our favorite games of 2023.

    Specs

    • Capacity: 5TB
    • Drive type: HDD
    • USB type: USB 3.0

    Pros

    • Good amount of storage
    • Awesome design on the drive casing
    • Limited Edition makes it feel a little more special

    Cons

    • The cool design costs extra

    Once it’s plugged in, a hard drive is a hard drive. All that matters is that it can load data quickly and can store enough games to serve your needs. If your hard drive’s going to sit out on a shelf for everyone to see, though, why not pick out one that looks cool, too? Seagate makes a bunch of special edition drives with artwork inspired by specific games. PlayStation players may be drawn to this drive based on Horizon: Forbidden West and the recent one based on The Last of Us Part II, but there are also Star Wars drives based on The Mandalorian, with the man himself, Grogu, and Boba Fett, as well as one drive themed to look like Beskar, the metal used in making the legendary Mandalorian armor.

    Best portable: SanDisk 512GB UltraFit USB 3.1 Flash Drive

    SanDisk

    SEE IT

    Why it made the cut: The SanDisk 512GB UltraFit is very small, even by flash drive standards.

    Specs

    • Capacity: 512GB
    • Drive type: Flash
    • USB type: USB 3.0

    Pros

    • Tiny
    • Inexpensive
    • Faster than a hard disk drive

    Cons

    • Small storage capacity

    This is the smallest drive on this list in every sense of the word. The SanDisk UltraFit is smaller than any of our other picks. In fact, it’s smaller than most flash drives. You could easily put it in your pocket and forget about it. More importantly, you can plug it into a console and completely forget it’s there.

    At the same time, it’s also only 512GB, which doesn’t add all that much capacity to your console. That said, 512GB is nearly as much as the PS5’s internal storage with the OS installed. The price is small too, so it’s a good way to get a little extra storage without spending too much.

    Best high-speed: Samsung T7 Shield 2TB Portable SSD

    Samsung

    SEE IT

    Buy it used or refurbished: eBay

    Why it made the cut: If you want the fastest read and write speeds, despite the PS5’s limitations, the Samsung T7 Shield is a very capable external SSD.

    Specs

    • Capacity: 2TB
    • Drive type: M.2 SSD
    • USB type: USB 3.2 Gen 2×2

    Pros

    • Incredibly fast
    • Very small
    • Rugged construction

    Cons

    • High price
    • Limited capacity

    It’s a bit early to start thinking about moving games from one PS5 to another (most people need good luck just to get that first console), but we still love the rugged construction of the Samsung T7 Shield. This drive offers 1000MBps sequential read/write speeds, so it isn’t the fastest SSD out there. It’s fine for this use-case, though, and you might be able to notice a small bump in load times if you compared it to other external hard drives. If nothing else, the rugged build will make sure this drive lasts, which is nice since it’s on the expensive side.

    Best budget: Toshiba Canvio Basics 1TB

    Toshiba

    SEE IT

    Buy it used or refurbished: eBay

    Why it made the cut: The Toshiba Canvio Basics is a perfect external hard drive for price-conscious gamers.

    Specs

    • Capacity: 1TB
    • Drive type: HDD
    • USB type: USB 3.0

    Pros

    • Inexpensive
    • Simple design

    Cons

    • Limited capacity

    Toshiba’s Canvio Basics drive is an inexpensive way to more than double the available storage of the PlayStation 5. With even just 1TB, you’ll still be able to store around 30 games, which is nothing to sneeze at. If that doesn’t seem like enough, you can always upgrade to something bigger. If you do, you won’t feel bad about retiring such an inexpensive drive.

    FAQs

    Q: How many PS5 games can you fit on a 1TB hard drive?

    Games vary greatly in size, so a 1TB hard drive could fill up after 10 games or over 100 of them. If all of your games take up tons of space, you might only be able to fit six or seven games in 1TB. If you play lots of indie titles, you might be able to fit more than 40 or 50 games. Realistically speaking, most players will land somewhere in the middle.

    Q: Should I get an SSD or HDD for my PS5?

    Assuming we’re talking about external hard drives, rather than the kind of SSD you can install in your console, the difference between an external HDD and an external SSD may not be as large as you’d think when plugged into a PS5. The PS5 limits bandwidth on faster USB connections, so you aren’t getting the advertised max read and write speeds from an SSD. Even then, some SSDs will confer faster load times.

    That said, there’s a strong argument in favor of going with an HDD, which will give you more storage capacity for a much lower price. Considering that no external hard drive can replicate the PS5’s internal hard drive speed, we think the HDD is a better value.

    Q: Does adding an SSD to a PS5 make it faster?

    Adding an external (or internal, for that matter) SSD to your PlayStation 5 will not impact the console’s overall performance. PS4 games running off an external hard drive will not load as quickly as if they were on the PS5’s internal hard drive, even if the external drive is an SSD.

    Final thoughts on the best external hard drives for PS5

    As long as your drive of choice fits Sony’s minimum and maximum requirements, it’ll work just fine with your PS5. You might even own a perfectly serviceable drive for this purpose. If you need a new one, all of our picks for best external hard drives for PS5 work well with the next-gen hardware, and almost all of them will more than double your available storage.

    The post Best external hard drives for PS5 of 2023 appeared first on Popular Science.

    Articles may contain affiliate links which enable us to share in the revenue of any purchases made.

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    You’ll need to solve Puerto Rico’s debt crisis to win this new board game https://www.popsci.com/environment/promesa-board-game-puerto-rico/ Thu, 08 Sep 2022 18:00:00 +0000 https://www.popsci.com/?p=468483
    Components from the board game Promesa.
    A raft of gems signifying Puerto Rico's debts from the board game Promesa. Maria Parazo Rose

    In 'Promesa,' you don’t colonize the island—you invest in it.

    The post You’ll need to solve Puerto Rico’s debt crisis to win this new board game appeared first on Popular Science.

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    Components from the board game Promesa.
    A raft of gems signifying Puerto Rico's debts from the board game Promesa. Maria Parazo Rose

    We may earn revenue from the products available on this page and participate in affiliate programs. Learn more ›

    The idea for Promesa was born one afternoon in May 2017 when Mikael Jakobsson and Aziria Rodríguez Arce were playing a round of Puerto Rico, a highly rated, award-winning board game. The premise is that players act as colonial governors and slave owners on the US territory and island, and win points by running plantations, constructing buildings, and shipping goods to Spain. Jakobsson says Puerto Rico came from a 1990’s board game “renaissance” in Europe that popularized themes of exploration, expansion, exploitation, and extermination in the industry.

    “It’s playing oppression. It’s like history fan fiction with all these games… You find an island and it’s yours” says Jakobsson, a lecturer at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology and research coordinator at the university’s Game Lab. “It’s a pretty shitty theme for a board game.” 

    To break the all-too-popular pattern, over the past two years, Jakobsson has been working with Puerto Rican graphic artist Rosa Colón Guerra to create Promesa, a new board game that more accurately reflects the reality of Puerto Rico’s history and people. The game is based on the real-life PROMESA act, which was established by the US government in 2016 in response to the island’s debt crisis, putting American lawmakers in charge of the country’s finances. To win, you must settle Puerto Rico’s bills and build up the country’s infrastructure, education, and social services.

    [Related: Climate-related food shortages are driving more Puerto Ricans to farming]

    With its unconventional premise and solutions-geared gameplay, Promesa stands out from other options already on the market. For one, it’s set in the present to familiarize players with the challenges Puerto Ricans are facing today. “When a game is set in the distant past, I think it’s to not upset anyone … We don’t have to worry about human suffering,” Jakobsson says. “But we need to see that Puerto Rico is still an actual territory.”

    To see exactly how this reframing changes a board-game-playing experience, I played a round of Promesa in late August. I’m no board game expert, but I am competitive—and I wanted to see what Jakobsson’s idea of winning looked like. 

    Navigating catastrophe

    The artwork on Promesa is some of the most detailed and vibrant I’ve seen. Colón Guerra, currently a resident at MIT’s Visiting Artists program, traveled all over her home country to capture important local landscapes and ensure that the visuals reflected the people there. Somehow, she squeezed the 3,500-square-mile island down to a roughly 4-foot-square board. Lagoons, castles, and sea animals dot the edges as a waterfall and ruins hold court at the center. A dock, on the southwest corner, is painted like the Puerto Rican flag. If you recognize some of the landmarks, Jakobsson says this is by design: they wanted the depiction of Puerto Rico to feel familiar to those who know the island.

    I’m sitting in the Game Lab in Cambridge, Massachusetts, with fellow MIT students, Grace and Iris, for a trial run of Promesa. A pile of crystalline black gems is balanced precariously on a blue “raft’”: These gems represent the country’s debt, while the raft symbolizes the blue tarps that still cover many houses on the island after Hurricane Maria. Our mission is to work together to slowly push the raft off the island without spilling any gems—or else more obstacles will hinder us. Throughout the game, we must invest in education, social services, and infrastructure by adding gems from each of these categories (colored bright green, blue, and yellow) to the pile of debt gems on the raft. This reflects the cost of investing in these areas, and adds to the difficulty of moving the raft. At the same time, paying into education or infrastructure, for example, allows us to take certain actions, like get rid of debt gems or push the raft farther off the island, that help us reach the final goal. 

    The blue tarp that was used to protect the roof damaged by Hurricane Maria two years ago is showing wear and tear in Toa Baja, Puerto Rico, September 18, 2019. - Sixto Marrero gets goosebumps with each downpour. The roof of his house was razed two years ago by Hurricane Maria and replaced by a tarp that still protects him from the rain. His humble residence in a neighborhood in the heart of San Juan, the capital, is one of 30,000 that have the "blue roofs", as the awnings that the federal emergency agency FEMA gave to those who lost coverage of their homes in the disaster. (Photo by Ricardo ARDUENGO / AFP)        (Photo credit should read RICARDO ARDUENGO/AFP via Getty Images)
    Blue tarps have been used to cover roofs of houses, like this one in San Juan, damaged by Hurricane Maria. Ricardo Arduegno/AFP via Getty Images

    “You three are now the lawmakers in charge of handling Puerto Rico’s debt crisis,” Jakobsson says to open the game. “Congratulations.”

    We laugh nervously. “This game seems like it might be hard to win,” Grace says with a slight smile as she tips the gems onto the raft to launch us into more than a hundred years of colonial exploitation and economic burden. A few of the pieces fall off, and we exchange looks as Jakobsson places two red setback gems on the “catastrophe” scale. Once we hit five, disaster strikes. (The nature of the event isn’t specified, but Jakobsson alludes to some of the recent hurricanes and earthquakes that have damaged the island.) After the third catastrophe, the game is immediately over.

    A few rounds later, we reach our first catastrophe and have to give up five of our hard-earned education and infrastructure gems. Without those, we’re not allowed to push the raft off the island anymore—we have to spend more on education and infrastructure and incur extra debt before Puerto Rico can progress. 

    “You’ve still got time,” Jakobsson says, when we let out slightly distressed groans. “But not a lot.”

    Win and lose together

    From the start, Jakobsen says his idea was to show that the island’s debt can’t fully be paid off. 

    But it took several years of research for him and Arce, an MIT graduate student and consultant on the project, to reflect that nuance in the aims, rules, and construct of a board game. In the summer of 2018, Jakobsson received a grant from the university to travel to Puerto Rico, where they worked with scholars and colleagues to learn what residents were most concerned about, and how those core issues might effectively be designed into a game. After weeks of interviews and analysis, the team settled on the topic of the debt crisis. 

    Promesa went through many iterations, starting off with a card game structure and then changing formats completely. Eventually, the makers settled on the throughline of getting rid of the country’s debt on a raft, based on the images of the blue tarps they saw after Hurricane Maria. They wanted to send the raft floating, metaphorically, back to Washington, D.C. to “leave the debt where it belonged.” With that part established, the rest of the game came together more quickly. 

    Ultimately, the structure of the game differs from any that require players to best others to win. It’s a collaborative, cooperative game—you win and lose together. 

    “A lot of games are built around mechanics that perpetuate certain ideas of Western progress. It’s like, ‘might makes right.’ It’s not about ethics—it’s about having a powerful army,  corporation, or whatever it is that makes you a winner,” Jakobsson says. “So we try to challenge some of those ideas.” 

    Tabletop lessons

    So why spend so much energy on conveying history through a board game that’s supposed to be fun? Wouldn’t this kind of effort be more meaningful in a book or documentary? Board games are a powerful medium, Jakobsson says, because we can engage with them in personal spaces where it can be hard for other political messages to reach. Even if players don’t become experts on Puerto Rico’s colonial past, portraying a different kind of history is important on its own. 

    “I think there is something about playing out an issue versus just reading or hearing about it that can grip you a little deeper, and maybe can be a little more memorable,” Jakobsson explains. 

    Agriculture photo
    Artist Colón Guerra compressed the 3,500-square-mile island into a 4-foot-square map, complete with landmarks and sea creatures. Maria Parazo Rose

    He adds that he doesn’t think that Euro-games, with their fixation on conquest, are designed to be intentionally harmful. After all, they can be fun to play. But they still have an impact on players’ views and actions in the real world. Games and other media, Jakobsson says, are cultural artifacts that shape our understanding of the people and places around us. “They are reflections of the society or the culture in which we create them. And culture, to some extent, reflects the games we play. So I think there’s a lot of learning going on in games.

    [Related: Two-player games that won’t turn you and your friend into enemies]

    At the moment, the team is printing a limited run of Promesa. They’ve faced challenges in production and distribution due to the pandemic and slowed-down supply chains, but in the future, they hope to crowdfund resources to support wider access to the game. 

    Jakobsson hopes that Promesa can nudge game designers in a different direction of storytelling and cultural engagement. Even though the board game industry is surging, explicitly anti-colonialist games like Promesa are still rare. More games that buck traditional trends of “exploration, expansion, exploitation, and extermination” will lead to more interesting directions, he says. 

    “The idea that games are just for fun and nothing else—that is already starting to be a little less common among younger players,” Jakobsson points out. Many of his students at MIT look for games that have more complex and mature themes about social issues. In his experience, “there’s nothing outlandish about a board game about a political debt crisis.”

    Earlier this summer, Ravensburger, the parent company that owns the original Puerto Rico, announced that they would release another game this fall: Puerto Rico 1897. This new version, which marks the year the country achieved autonomy from Spain, moves away from colonial themes: The goal is now to be the most prosperous farmer on the island. But there is still no acknowledgement of the US takeover in 1898

    Journey’s end

    It’s the last move: Grace, Iris, and I have one chance to push the raft off the island. We draw our last gems (not red, thankfully), and add them to the perilously high stack. The edges of the silicon blue square resist the neoprene material of the board and, for some reason, my fingers are shaking. I hold my breath while pushing, and it seems to pay off—we successfully get the raft into the deep-blue waters of the Atlantic. 

    Jakobsson warned us it would be a tough journey, but after several rounds of luck, collaboration, and, notably, delicate pushing, we managed to resolve Puerto Rico’s debt crisis. After celebrating our win, Iris and Grace admit they hadn’t known about the PROMESA Act before playing. Iris says that, during each of her moves, she kept imagining what investing in infrastructure, education, and social services on the island might actually be like. 

    “Well,” Jakobsson says, “at least we did that.”

    Correction (September 10, 2022): Mikael Jakobsson’s last name was misspelled in some references. They have now been corrected.

    The post You’ll need to solve Puerto Rico’s debt crisis to win this new board game appeared first on Popular Science.

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    Sony Inzone H9 wireless gaming headset review: ANC rules everything around me https://www.popsci.com/gear/sony-inzone-h9-review/ Fri, 02 Sep 2022 14:00:00 +0000 https://www.popsci.com/?p=466764
    Sony Inzone H9 Wireless Gaming Headset Review
    One of Sony's first PC-focused gaming headset, the Inzone H9 offers active noise-canceling and other high-end features. Mike Epstein

    Sony's first flagship PC gaming headset has lots of great tech, but flawed fundamentals.

    The post Sony Inzone H9 wireless gaming headset review: ANC rules everything around me appeared first on Popular Science.

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    Sony Inzone H9 Wireless Gaming Headset Review
    One of Sony's first PC-focused gaming headset, the Inzone H9 offers active noise-canceling and other high-end features. Mike Epstein

    We may earn revenue from the products available on this page and participate in affiliate programs. Learn more ›

    Earlier this year, Sony unveiled a new PC gaming sub-brand called Inzone, with a line of “H”-series gaming headsets and “M”-series gaming monitors. Unlike PlayStation gear, which always revolves around the company’s beloved consoles, the Inzone gear also performs for PC gamers and has features that are only accessible through a Windows configuration app. The Sony Inzone H9, the most expensive of three headsets in the line, is a wireless model awash with high-end features, including active noise-canceling (ANC) and fast-charging, which are criminally underused in gaming headsets. Despite its strong specs and flash, it falters on some gaming headset fundamentals, which are hard to ignore in a high-end gaming headset.

    Mike Epstein

    SEE IT

    “In” the “zone”

    Ironically, the Sony Inzone H9 looks like a PlayStation 5 gaming headset. The stark combination of white matte plastic, accented with black plastic and leatherette-covered padding mirrors the contrast-heavy design language of the latest Sony console. Whether you use them with a gaming PC or a PS5, though, the H9 is certainly style-forward, especially with its elegantly implemented ring-shaped indicator lights. It isn’t that far from typical gaming headset design, but distinctive enough that you’d never mistake it for something else.

    Weighing 11.57 ounces, it’s on the heavy side compared to other headsets, but not so much that you really feel the weight over time. With only the lightest amount of clamping force, it may wiggle a bit if you shake your head but moves far less than you’d expect in regular use.

    The large, foam-padded ear cups give your ears plenty of room to breathe. In the closed-back cans, 40mm Neodymium drivers are par for the gaming headset course. Between uses, the earcups rotate to lay flat on your chest or a table, which is a common, but always-welcome flourish.

    Around the earcups, the H9 offers a robust but strangely implemented set of onboard controls. On the left cup, you have a volume roller, noise-canceling/ambient mode button, and a USB-C port for charging. On the right, you get a dual-rocker for adjusting game/chat audio balance, a Bluetooth pairing button, and a power button. The range of controls is great but their positioning is not, particularly on the right earcup. The power button is near the front of the right earcup, so turning the headset on and off always feels awkward. Likewise, I found myself running my finger up and down the headset looking for the Bluetooth button when I needed it. There are a lot of controls, so some buttons can’t be perfectly placed, but the design doesn’t prioritize the most frequently used buttons, which is a problem.

    Sony Inzone H9 wireless gaming headset review
    Permanently attached “flip-to-talk” microphones aren’t as common as they used to be, but it comes in handy on the H9. Mike Epstein

    The H9 features a permanently affixed, flip-to-talk boom mic, which feels like a relic from a bygone age. At this point, most headsets feature detachable wire boom mics, which sacrifice the flip-up-to-mute feature for a more flexible mic that you can almost always position perfectly over your lips. The H9’s mic, by contrast, is easy to position well, but hard to get just right.

    Wireless connectivity and battery life

    To ensure a stable connection with minimal lag, the Sony Inzone H9 connects via a 2.4GHz USB wireless dongle. It also can connect via Bluetooth 5.0, supporting both SBC and AAC codecs so you can pair it with an Android or Apple phone. Best of all, you can connect to two devices at once, and get sound from a phone and a PC or console at the same time. That flexibility can be very helpful in some Discord setups and other niche situations. (Me? Sometimes I like to put a podcast on while I’m playing.) You have to select on the dongle whether you’re plugging into a PS5 or a PC, but doing so allows it to adjust system-level controls like game/chat balance.

    Sony Inzone H9 wireless gaming headset
    The power button on the H9 is poorly placed. Mike Epstein

    For an ANC headset, the H9 gets stellar battery life. According to Sony, it lasts up to 32 hours with ANC off. I found it lasted more than 25 hours on a single charge with ANC on most of the time, which is well above average. The H9 also offers the rare benefit of quick-charging support: Plugged in via USB-C, you can top it off with an hour’s worth of juice in 10 minutes. That’s very helpful if you find yourself ready to play, only to find the headset’s out of power.

    Noise-canceling, an underrated headset feature

    The signature feature of the Sony Inzone H9 is its active noise cancellation. Two microphones analyze incoming noise while the headset generates an inverted wave that cancels it out. You find ANC all the time in over-ear headphones and earbuds, which are made for wearing out in the world, but it is still not all that common in gaming headsets, which people use at home most of the time. It’s also a cost-cutting measure for a very budget-conscious product sub-genre of audio gear: ANC requires additional components and software, so they are inherently more expensive.

    Here’s the thing, though: ANC is an incredible asset in a gaming headset. The primary goal of game audio is to immerse you in the imaginary world on-screen, and ANC minimizes exterior distractions that may prevent it from doing that.  It can block out the low hum of an air conditioner as an orchestral score swells, or keep the loud banging from your neighbor’s home renovations from momentarily distracting you right when an enemy is about to attack you from behind. It makes sense that ANC is a luxury feature, but it is surprising that you don’t see it more in the $300-$500 “audiophile-grade” tier of headsets.

    Sony Inzone H9 wireless gaming headset review
    The H9 has very roomy ear cups. Mike Epstein

    If you’ve ever used any of Sony’s high-end headphones or earbuds, it shouldn’t surprise you that the H9 offers excellent noise cancellation. It drowns out more exterior noises and minimizes even loud sirens and construction work into a low drone. It also has advanced features like an ambient sound mode that actually amplifies outside noise for when you want to momentarily stop and talk to someone in the real world mid-session. It isn’t as quite as all-encompassing as some of Sony’s other ANC-enabled gear; It blocks out most of the noise from my air conditioner, for example, but there’s a high, tinny part of it that sneaks through. Still, it goes a long way when you really want to get lost in a game.

    The H9’s ANC has an Achilles heel, though. While the listening experience is well-guarded by noise cancellation, the microphone lets plenty of ambient noise through. From the clack of my keyboard to a louder version of that air conditioner whine, the audio I put out was much messier than what was coming in.

    How does it sound?

    Sony Inzone H9 Wireless Gaming Headset Review
    The Sony Inzone H9, in profile. Mike Epstein

    The Sony Inzone H9 offers decent, but not excellent sound quality. You’re going to hear all the little nooks and crannies in games with high-precision sound design. You can tell the difference between how guns sound in Call of Duty: Vanguard, and the echoey croak of a zombie-like Clicker in The Last of Us: Part 1. There’s very little track separation, though, so sometimes sounds may get muddled together. You also find mid- and high-end sounds leave a momentary lingering fuzz. In the wider world of audio, especially among gaming headsets, this is the difference between a great headset and an incredible one, but the H9’s high price demands you hold it to a higher standard than an entry-level headset like the PlayStation Pulse.

    It does, however, offer very strong spatial audio. In competitive multiplayer games, you can clearly detect the direction and distance of nearby enemies or allies purely by the sound of their footsteps and attacks. Using the Inzone Hub configuration app and the Sony 360 Spatial Sound Personalizer app, you can create a personalized spatial audio profile specifically for your ears. The setup, which involves taking pictures of your ears, is long and fairly janky, but it results in a dynamic virtual surround sound that feels perfectly tuned for games, without disrupting how your game sounds.

    It’s worth noting that the Inzone spatial audio is one of the features designed specifically for PC users, as it will use the standard (and high-quality) Tempest spatial audio when playing on PS5.

    What if I only want it for my PS5?

    Since it’s an Inzone headset, not a PlayStation one, there are a few things that you can only use when pairing the H9 with the PC. For PlayStation fans, this may sound annoying, but it’s standard fare for players who have used a headset on PC and PS4 or PS5 before. Using the Inzone Hub PC app gives you extra customization in the form of EQ presets and custom profiles. Dig deep enough and you’ll find more checkboxes for nitty gritty features like customizing the distance and positioning of virtual surround sound speakers, but they’re more for hardcore audio enthusiasts than typical players. Ultimately 90% of what’s great about the H9 (and most of what’s not) applies whether you play on PC or console.

    So, who should buy the Sony Inzone H9 wireless gaming headset?

    Sony Inzone H9 wireless gaming headset lay flat
    Ear cups that twist to lay flat are a common, but welcome feature in a headset. Mike Epstein

    In a vacuum, the Sony Inzone H9 is a stellar gaming headset. It looks good, offers great surround sound, fits comfortably, and offers active noise-canceling. View it through the lens of its hefty $300 price tag, though, and its flaws become harder to ignore. We can’t begrudge Sony the price—like we said, ANC is a feature that raises costs—but there are other models, such as SteelSeries’ Arctis Nova Pro, that offer a more well-rounded experience for a similar price. It’s an excellent start for a new sub-brand, but Sony will need to work out the kinks if it wants its wireless gaming headsets to command the same universal acclaim as its ANC headphones.

    The post Sony Inzone H9 wireless gaming headset review: ANC rules everything around me appeared first on Popular Science.

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    Best external hard drives for Xbox One in 2023 https://www.popsci.com/gear/best-external-hard-drives-for-xbox-one/ Tue, 16 Aug 2022 14:00:00 +0000 https://www.popsci.com/?p=462445
    Best External Hard Drives for Xbox One
    Mike Epstein

    Take your games on the go.

    The post Best external hard drives for Xbox One in 2023 appeared first on Popular Science.

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    Best External Hard Drives for Xbox One
    Mike Epstein

    We may earn revenue from the products available on this page and participate in affiliate programs. Learn more ›

    Best overall Seagate Game Drive for Xbox Game Pass Special Edition is the best overall. Seagate Game Drive for Xbox Game Pass Special Edition
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    Seagate’s Xbox-certified Game Drive sits right in the Goldilocks Zone for size, price, and style.

    Best high-capacity Western Digital 14TB Elements Desktop Hard Drive is the best high-capacity external hard drives for Xbox One. Western Digital 14TB Elements Desktop Hard Drive
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    Push the Xbox One’s storage limitations with this even larger Western Digital Elements external drive.

    Best high-speed SanDisk 1TB Extreme Portable SSD is the best high-speed. SanDisk 1TB Extreme Portable SSD
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    As a portable M.2 SSD, the SanDisk Extreme Portable series is infinitely faster than our other picks.

    If you’re playing games on an Xbox One, it’s very easy to download enough games to fill up your console, whether you have an Xbox One S with a 500GB hard drive or an Xbox One X with a 1TB drive. If you’re tired of deleting games every time you want to download something new, it’s time to pick up an external hard drive that gives you more space for games and even lets you take them with you if you upgrade to an Xbox Series X or Series S. The best external hard drives for Xbox One will let you download every game you’ve purchased, with plenty of room to spare for whatever comes next.

    How we picked the best external hard drives for Xbox One

    I’ve covered game consoles and computers for sites like TechnoBuffalo, The Tech Report, and GameSpot. Having watched games go from taking up kilobytes to megabytes to gigabytes, I’ve worked with both desktop and server computers for years and have a pretty good idea of what makes for a reliable hard drive brand.

    To make these selections, I stuck to those reliable brands and looked for the highest capacity, smallest, fastest, and best-value drives out there, keeping in mind user impressions on retail sites and aggregated technical reviews from tech blogs.

    Things to consider before buying an external drive for Xbox One

    After almost nine years, the Xbox One has been around the block a few times. Technically speaking, it is a last-generation console, though supply shortages of the Xbox Series S and Xbox Series X have led developers to continue optimizing Xbox games for it.

    Unlike the new consoles, which have internal solid-state drives—SSDs, for short—a hard drive is a hard drive to the Xbox One. As long as it hits the minimum requirements, which we’ll go into a moment, your Xbox One doesn’t care how fast or large your drive is. That would change when and if you upgrade to an Xbox Series X or S. For the time being, though, you are mostly free to get a very large hard drive without worrying too much about its specs.

    Minimum requirements

    There are really only two major Xbox One drive considerations: size and speed. According to Microsoft, you can connect between 128GB and 16TB of external storage to your Xbox One. With that much storage, you can download every game you’ve ever played, with plenty of room to spare. There’s also a connection requirement—you must connect it via USB-A 3.0 (the Xbox One predates Type-C connectors)—which sets a hard 5.0Gb/s transfer limit.

    One more thing: You cannot use an external hard drive to store Xbox One games and other files from other devices at the same time. When you plug a drive into your Xbox One, the Xbox will ask you to format it before you can store games, erasing any data you might have stored there. Once formatted, you cannot use the external drive for anything else until you reformat it again, which will delete all the games.

    So long as your hard drive meets those requirements, which aren’t very high by modern external hard drive standards, you can use any external hard drive with your Xbox One.

    Xbox One is old: Don’t overspend …

    Given that there’s a hard cap on how fast your Xbox One can handle data coming off an external hard drive, you should also put a cap on buying the fastest possible hard drive to go with it. You won’t see substantial boosts to load times if you connect an external SSD to the console, since its core boot drive is a conventional rotating hard disk or HDD.

    This is great news! There’s no downside to buying a huge 16TB hard drive that’s shockingly affordable, given its size, because it’s actually very slow.

    … unless you’re planning to upgrade to a Series S or Series X

    Of course, the equation changes if you’re planning to buy one of the 4th-generation Xbox “Series” consoles. While you can’t play Xbox Series X/S games stored on an external drive, you can use one to store and play older Xbox games. Virtually all Xbox One games, as well as many Xbox 360 and Xbox games, are playable on Xbox Series X and S. All you have to do to move your digital Xbox games over is unplug the drive from the Xbox One and plug it into the Xbox Series X or S, and you’re ready to go. It’s very helpful to have for the transition and it saves you a lot of space on the new console’s core drive.

    In this scenario, though, your external hard drive’s read and write speeds matter. An SSD is significantly faster than an HDD and the Xbox Series X can unpack and load games faster. How much faster will vary from game to game, but most games should load faster and perform better on Microsoft’s latest consoles.

    What games do you play?

    It would be best if you also kept in mind what kinds of games you plan to store and play. While many games are below the 30GB mark, a few recent games have passed the 100GB mark. Grand Theft Auto V can take up as much as 94GB; Red Dead Redemption 2 is 110GB; Call of Duty: Modern Warfare is upwards of 120GB, even on Xbox One. So just those three games can consume almost 500GB. 

    Best external hard drives for Xbox One: Reviews & Recommendations

    These drives run the gamut from the cheapest, lowest capacity storage to the fastest and most lightweight portable options. The best picks, we think, balance storage capacity and price, but we considered some very large drives as well. They’re all going to be equally easy to set up, and can handle a small game library equally well—the details are around the edges.

    Best overall: Seagate Game Drive for Xbox Game Pass Special Edition

    Seagate

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    Buy it used or refurbished: Amazon

    Why it made the cut: The Seagate Game Drive for Xbox Game Pass is portable and offers a lot of storage for a decent price.

    Specs

    • Capacity: 4TB
    • Drive type: HDD
    • USB type: USB 3.0

    Pros

    • Reasonably priced
    • Interesting look
    • A good fit for Xbox 360 and Xbox One games

    Cons

    • HDD isn’t a great pick for Xbox Series consoles

    While you can plug just about any external hard drive into an Xbox One, the Seagate console-specific “Game Drive” looks sharp, stores a lot of games, and is small enough to carry around if you need to. This model’s 4TB of storage can hold 90-100 Xbox One games, which is plenty of space for most game libraries. A compact package at just 21mm thick, you can get a green Xbox-branded version, a white Game Pass model (which comes with a free one-month Game Pass Ultimate subscription), or even black to match a PS4. Every drive here is worth the money, but Seagate’s offering is a perfect fit for the Xbox One.

    Best value: Western Digital 12TB Elements Desktop Hard Drive

    Western Digital

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    Buy it used or refurbished: Amazon

    Why it made the cut: The 12TB Western Digital Elements external hard drive comes close to the Xbox One’s external storage limit, but doesn’t cost all that much.

    Specs

    • Capacity: 12TB
    • Drive type: HDD
    • USB type: USB 3.0

    Pros

    • Tons of storage
    • Best value per dollar (as of August 2022)

    Cons

    • Requires a separate power adapter (included)

    The Western Digital 12TB Elements Desktop Hard Drive isn’t the cheapest drive on our list but it offers the best value when you look at the capacity and the price. We dug around, looking at drives from a variety of reputable drive makers and capacities, and this drive edges out the others in byte-per-dollar value—just barely, though. The price may fluctuate over time but this is the best value you can get right now.

    Best high-capacity: Western Digital 14TB Elements Desktop Hard Drive

    Western Digital

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    Buy it used or refurbished: Amazon

    Why it made the cut: Push the Xbox One’s storage limitations with this even larger Western Digital Elements external drive.

    Specs

    • Capacity: 14TB
    • Drive type: HDD
    • USB type: USB 3.0

    Pros

    • Tons of storage
    • Great byte-per-dollar value

    Cons

    • Requires separate power adapter

    This larger version of the previous pick gives you a slightly lower byte-per-dollar value, but it gives you an extra couple of terabytes and comes very close to maxing out your Xbox One’s storage capacity. It’s more space than most players reasonably need for their game library, holding roughly 350 average-sized games. With Microsoft’s focus on backward compatibility, though, you could keep buying Xbox One and 360 games for years without worrying about how much space you have left.

    Best portable: SanDisk 1TB Extreme Pro USB 3.2 Flash Drive

    SanDisk

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    Why it made the cut: The SanDisk 1TB Extreme Pro USB 3.2 Flash Drive makes it easy to carry a lot of Xbox games in your pocket.

    Specs

    • Capacity: 1TB
    • Drive type: Flash
    • USB type: USB 3.0

    Pros

    • Tiny
    • Faster than an HDD

    Cons

    • Not much storage

    Going from 14TB above down to just 1TB may seem like a big step down, but keep in mind that we’re talking about a flash drive now. The 1TB SanDisk Extreme Pro will fit on your keychain if you want to carry it around. It may not be an entire library, but 1TB still doubles or triples your console’s internal storage capacity, depending on what Xbox One you have. It is far and away the easiest option if you want to unplug and store your external when you aren’t using it.

    Best high-speed: SanDisk 1TB Extreme Portable SSD

    SanDisk

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    Buy it used or refurbished: Amazon

    Why it made the cut: As a portable M.2 SSD, the SanDisk Extreme Portable series is infinitely faster than our other picks.

    Specs

    • Capacity: 1TB
    • Drive type: M.2 SSD
    • USB type: USB 3.2 Gen 2×2

    Pros

    • Incredibly fast
    • Very small
    • Rugged Construction

    Cons

    • Expensive
    • Limited capacity

    If you’re buying a portable external with hard drive speed in mind, the SanDisk Extreme Portable SSD offers far faster delivery than our other picks. According to SanDisk, it supports up to 2000MB/s read/write speeds, which blows our other picks out of the water when plugged into a device that could take advantage of those speeds.

    Of course, that’s the main limiting factor: Your Xbox One and even the Series X won’t be able to make full use of the drive’s speed. Older games are often limited by compression and built-in features meant to make the game work on a standard Xbox One hard drive. With that said, these games will load as quickly as your console can handle, making it a great way to future-proof your drive for your next Xbox upgrade.

    Aside from being fast, it’s also small, light, and built for abuse. The drive has 2-meter drop protection and IP55 water and dust resistance. You shouldn’t take it swimming, but you don’t have to worry about getting caught in the rain with it in your pocket.

    Best budget: Toshiba Canvio Basics 1TB

    Toshiba

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    Buy it used or refurbished: eBay

    Why it made the cut: The Toshiba Canvio Basics doubles or triples your Xbox One’s storage, and costs less than a new AAA game.

    Specs

    • Capacity: 1TB
    • Drive type: HDD
    • USB type: USB 3.0

    Pros

    • Inexpensive
    • Simple design

    Cons

    • Limited Capacity

    The Toshiba Canvio Basics isn’t the fastest or biggest external hard drive on this list by any stretch, but it’s definitely the cheapest. If you want to double or triple your storage quickly, and you aren’t worried about keeping a massive library of games at the ready, this drive will get the job done. It’s simple, small, and straightforward.

    FAQs

    Q: Does any external hard drive work with Xbox One?

    In 2022, pretty much any external hard drive should work with an Xbox One. As long as it fits the requirements above—128GB or more of space and a USB 3.0 interface—the Xbox One will support it.

    Q: Can you play Xbox games straight from the external hard drive?

    Yes! Better yet, you can take the same drive from one Xbox One to another, or from an Xbox One to an Xbox Series X or S, and play those same games there, too.

    As we mentioned before, though, you cannot play Xbox Series X/S games off an external hard drive. If you upgrade to one of either of the newest Xbox consoles, you may want to consider grabbing one of Seagate’s proprietary storage expansion cards.

    Q: How many Xbox One games can 2TB hold?

    The short answer is “2TB worth.” Game sizes vary wildly these days. Many indies will use up less than 1GB of storage on your hard drive, while a few major AAA games can take up 100GB or more. What you choose to play and how you manage your hard drive will determine how quickly it fills up.

    All that said, we estimate that most major Xbox One games require 30GB to 50GB of storage space. If all your games fall in that range, you’ll be able to fit about 35 to 45 games on a 2TB drive.

    Q: Can you use the same drive for Xbox One and PlayStation 4?

    Not really. Both Xbox One and PlayStation 4 require you to reformat your external hard drive to store and play games. If you use an external hard drive for Xbox One or PS4 games, you can’t use it for anything else. 

    There’s one small exception: Both consoles can play media—movies, photos, or music—off of a hard drive that isn’t formatted for games. That drive will work across both consoles.

    Final thoughts on the best external hard drives for Xbox One

    Just about any external hard drive will work as an Xbox One expansion drive, so there’s enough variety out there. Since speed isn’t a huge factor for the Xbox One specifically, you can focus on getting a large, cheap external that can hold all your games. Just keep in mind that you may find yourself looking for another hard drive to go with your next console, Xbox or otherwise.

    The post Best external hard drives for Xbox One in 2023 appeared first on Popular Science.

    Articles may contain affiliate links which enable us to share in the revenue of any purchases made.

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    Acer Predator XB3 gaming monitor review: Not quite an apex Predator https://www.popsci.com/gear/acer-predator-xb3-gaming-monitor-review/ Sat, 13 Aug 2022 13:00:00 +0000 https://www.popsci.com/?p=462137
    Acer Predator XB3 Review
    The Predator XB3 makes games look incredible, but costs a pretty penny. Harry Rabinowitz

    Acer’s Predator XB3 offers incredible gaming and productivity performance, but is it worth the sky-high price tag?

    The post Acer Predator XB3 gaming monitor review: Not quite an apex Predator appeared first on Popular Science.

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    Acer Predator XB3 Review
    The Predator XB3 makes games look incredible, but costs a pretty penny. Harry Rabinowitz

    We may earn revenue from the products available on this page and participate in affiliate programs. Learn more ›

    The Acer Predator XB323QK NVbmiiphuzx—XB3, for short—tries to do it all. Its beautiful, fast 4K screen is an excellent match for PlayStation 5 or Xbox Series X. Its robust connectivity and features offer plenty of support for all kinds of PC users. Solid ergonomics, built-in speakers, and HDR all go above and beyond what we would call “basic” gaming monitor utility. Trying to be everything for everyone, though, comes at a high cost. At $1,200, the XB3 prices itself out of consideration for most people—but not all people. For the right kind of player, one who both wants exceptional-looking games and professional-caliber color, the Predator XB3 may be worth the expense. Let’s take a closer look.

    Harry Rabinowitz

    SEE IT

    What is the Acer Predator XB3?

    Even among Acer’s premium Predator line, which includes most of Acer’s best monitors, the XB3 is expensive. Two of our favorite 4K gaming monitors, the Gigabyte M32U and Asus Swift PG32UQ, offer very similar features for less than $1,000, so the XB3’s price invites some skepticism. It is an impressive display, though, with the color reproduction to serve as a highly accurate monitor for photography and design work.

    Among Acer’s premium Predator brand, the XB3 offers excellent image quality, only outmatched by the massive 37-inch X38 and 43-inch CG7. The XB3 features a 31.5-inch IPS display running at 4K resolution, 144Hz refresh rate, 1ms response time, and a DisplayHDR 400 rating. A 32-inch, 4K gaming monitor running 144Hz is among the most luxurious core specs you can get, typically costing upwards of $700 (and often more when paired with unique innovations).

    Outside of the screen, the XB3 features a bevy of premium touches. The chassis is largely metal, with ample ergonomic adjustability, a sturdy build, and slim bezels. Built-in are two four-watt speakers that serve as a great backup when headset fatigue starts to set in. On the rear, the XB3 features ample connectivity, including the latest HDMI 2.1 and DisplayPort 1.4 ports. HDMI 2.1 is especially useful for console gamers seeking peak performance from their PS5 or Xbox Series X.

    Setting up the Acer Predator XB3

    Fully assembled, the XB3 weighs a hefty 29.7 pounds. That weight makes it incredibly sturdy when adjusting ergonomics but difficult to physically move around.

    It’s important to know what you’re getting into buying a monitor this size. On my 47 x 30 inch desk, the screen felt a little too close to my face, no matter where I placed the monitor. The stand places the screen in front of the stand, so you need a very deep desk to position it well. Anyone with a larger desk shouldn’t have an issue, but tighter setups like mine are a bit tricky to perfect.

    Aside from two USB-A ports on the left-hand side, the XB3 features a wall of downward-facing ports along the back of the display, including HDMI, DisplayPort, USB-C, USB-B, USB-A, and 3.5mm audio. Downward-facing ports are a double-edged sword: They reduce strain on your cables but are a pain to switch in and out. It’s realistically worth it for the primary video cables—HDMI and DisplayPort—but it can frustrate with ports used for connecting other devices, like USB-A and USB-C.

    Acer Predator XB3 Review
    The Acer Predator XB3’s downward-facing rear ports. Harry Rabinowitz

    Like most monitors, the onboard controls also leave something to be desired. You use a row of five square, downward-facing buttons on the right-hand side of the screen to navigate and make system-level display adjustments. The menus are intuitive, but controlling them isn’t, especially compared to monitors like Acer’s Predator X34 and X35, which feature a four-directional joystick.

    Using the Acer Predator XB3

    The Predator XB3 is a perfectly capable everyday monitor but it didn’t initially “wow” me with its performance. Digging into the settings, I discovered the XB3’s eight different picture modes: Standard, Eco, Graphics, HDR, Action, Racing, Sports, and User. Out of the box, Eco is the default, which turns off the XB3’s most impressive features—things like HDR, Super Sharpness, visual response boost (VRB), and Overdrive.

    Acer Predator XB3 Review
    The Acer Predator XB3 features eight built-in picture settings. HDR offered the best color performance. Harry Rabinowitz

    Out of all the preset picture modes, I found that HDR offers the best picture. If you really want to fine-tune the monitor to your liking, User mode lets you fully customize each and every setting.

    The XB3 has a Vesa DisplayHDR 400 rating that makes everyday apps pop. Outside of everyday tasks, HDR400 isn’t really enough to fully display high-dynamic range effects in video games. Still, when I showed the XB3 to my friends and family who were used to 1080p and 1440p monitors, they were blown away watching 4K HDR TV shows and YouTube videos.

    The Acer Predator XB3 as a gaming monitor

    You don’t buy the Predator XB3 to work on spreadsheets, though. This is a gaming monitor, and you’ll only see what makes its full potential when playing games.

    I tested a wide variety of PC games over the XB3’s HDMI 2.1 and DisplayPort 1.4 connections. Few monitors offer the newest HDMI 2.1 connectivity—being able to play games in 4K at 144Hz over HDMI, rather than DisplayPort, was a new experience for me. G-Sync, paired with my Nvidia RTX 3070, ensured buttery smooth performance in graphically intense titles like Elden Ring, which felt massive on the XB3’s 31.5-inch screen, with far-off vistas and gruesome monsters rendered in stunning detail. Frenetic action games like Hades looked seamless and felt smooth.

    Frankly, the XB3 enables a higher frame rate and resolution than most gaming PCs can handle. Many AAA games, such as Elden Ring and Red Dead Redemption II, are capped at 60 frames per second in 4K, and even maintaining that resolution and frame rate requires a lot of horsepower. My system could hit 144Hz in 4K in some well-optimized first-person shooters like Counter-Strike: Global Offensive and indies like Dead Cells that were easier on my graphics card. When I could manage it, though, playing games in 4K at 144Hz felt fantastic. Fast-moving objects and small details were rendered with incredible fidelity, so much so that I noticed new details in games I was already familiar with. 

    Acer Predator XB3 Review
    It takes a lot of GPU power to play games in 4K at 144Hz. My PC could only handle it with a few less-demanding games like Hades. Harry Rabinowitz

    Although I only tested the XB3 with a PC, it’s also particularly well-suited for console gaming. With HDMI 2.1, it’s capable of playing games from a PS5 or Xbox Series X in 4K at 144Hz. Many monitors only offer HDMI 2.0, so they can only output one or the other from a console. The large 31.5-inch screen and built-in speakers allow for a self-contained TV-esque experience, as well.

    The Acer Predator XB3 as a creative monitor

    My daily monitor usage covers a wide variety of tasks, including light creative work in Adobe. The XB3 is best suited for gaming but also offered surprisingly great color reproduction for creative workflows. Among gaming monitors, the XB3 offers very bold color reproduction. It has a color accuracy of Delta E<1, with a base DCI-P3 color gamut of 90 percent and sRGB color gamut at 135 percent. That’s in line with similar premium gaming displays like the Asus Swift PG32UQ and Gigabyte M32U, as well as many top monitors for graphic design. Superior color accuracy isn’t a guarantee among top gaming monitors and, candidly, it often isn’t necessary when you’re playing games for fun. If you need professional color, though, the XB3 is mostly up to the task.

    So, who should buy the Acer Predator XB3?

    The Acer Predator XB3 is an incredible 4K 144Hz gaming monitor that can do a lot of things. It renders games in amazing detail, with fast action captured effortlessly thanks to a high refresh rate and G-Sync compatibility. It’s also well-rounded, bringing above-average color accuracy and pixel density to creative production, particularly for a monitor not designed to put color reproduction first.

    Frankly, Its main drawback is its price. Since only the most powerful gaming rigs will be able to hit its maximum resolution and frame rate, the Acer Predator XB3’s $1,199.99 price may be a bitter pill to swallow, even for players with high-end systems. With options like the Asus ROG Swift PG32UQ or Samsung Odyssey G70A in the mix, it is an exceptional display that will only make sense for a very select group of creatives who love games.

    The post Acer Predator XB3 gaming monitor review: Not quite an apex Predator appeared first on Popular Science.

    Articles may contain affiliate links which enable us to share in the revenue of any purchases made.

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    Best Nintendo Switch controllers of 2023 https://www.popsci.com/reviews/best-nintendo-switch-controllers/ Mon, 22 Nov 2021 22:26:29 +0000 https://www.popsci.com/?p=396075
    These are our picks for the best Nintendo Switch controllers on Amazon.
    Natasha Roy

    The Nintendo Switch brings the joy but not necessarily because of the built-in Joy-Con controllers, so here are options to get your moves tighter and scores higher.

    The post Best Nintendo Switch controllers of 2023 appeared first on Popular Science.

    ]]>
    These are our picks for the best Nintendo Switch controllers on Amazon.
    Natasha Roy

    We may earn revenue from the products available on this page and participate in affiliate programs. Learn more ›

    Best Nintendo Switch pro-style controller There’s no better general option for an extra controller than Nintendo’s own Switch Pro Controller. Extremely comfortable, responsive, and reliable, it’s a significant upgrade for nearly any genre of game. Nintendo Switch Pro Controller
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    There’s no better general option for an extra controller than Nintendo’s own Switch Pro Controller.

    Best third-party controller for Switch A slightly scaled-down clone of the Nintendo Switch Pro Controller, the PowerA Enhanced Wireless Controller loses a few features while offering a few new ones for a slight discount, resulting in a very solid overall value. PowerA Enhanced Wireless Controller
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     The PowerA Enhanced Wireless Controller loses a few features while offering a few new ones for a slight discount, resulting in a very solid overall value.

    Best arcade stick for Switch A joy to look at and a joy to use, the 8BitDo Arcade Stick captures the stand-up cabinet feel with a tight joystick and nice, springy buttons in a weighty-but-not-heavy block that also happens to feature some really eye-catching aesthetics.
8BitDo Arcade Stick
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    The 8BitDo Arcade Stick captures the stand-up cabinet feel with a tight joystick and nice, springy buttons in a weighty-but-not-heavy block.

    The Nintendo Switch is a multi-use marvel that has taken over the gaming world. Whether you prefer to sync it to the big screen or use it for handheld gaming on the go, it offers a user-friendly and incredibly fun way to play. From strategy-heavy games like “Fire Emblem” to family-friendly “Animal Crossing”, the Switch is equipped for a wide variety of games to suit different interests and ages. And while those picks might not require much precision control, games like “Super Smash Bros. Ultimate,” “Fortnite,” or “Pokemon Unite,” require more dexterity and finesse. We’ve rounded up the best controllers that will suit your gaming needs—whether you’re couch-bound or handheld, analog stick or d-pad, we’ve got you covered with our list of Nintendo Switch controllers.

    How we selected the best Nintendo Switch controllers

    We combined hands-on research with insights gathered from fellow gamers on staff and around the international community to deliver a list you can trust. Every one of these Nintendo Switch controllers come highly recommended from multiple playtesters or outlets and every one has spent some amount of time in my hot little hands to see if it passes the thumbs stress test.

    Why aren’t my Joy-Cons enough?

    The standard Joy-Cons that come packaged with the Nintendo Switch are meant to slot into the sides of the Switch screen for split use when in handheld mode. For many games, this set-up is relatively comfortable and ergonomic. However, as a separated controller, either individually or docked together in the included Switch grip, the Joy-Cons really can’t rise above “fine.” The buttons are very small and the directional pad (d-pad) especially does not respond particularly well. Additionally, the analog sticks on the Joy-Con have a tendency to develop a problem known as “drift.” Drift happens to almost any analog control stick and it is an issue wherein the “neutral” position of the stick is either no longer neutral because of mechanical wear and tear or no longer read as neutral because of digital issues within the circuitry of the controller. Whichever happens to be the case with Joy-Cons, drift seems to occur more often than with competitors’ first-party controllers (DualShock/DualSense for the Playstation and the Xbox Wireless Controller). The best way to avoid drift developing in Joy-Cons is to use them as infrequently as possible, meaning that a secondary controller is preferable when the Switch is docked and connected to your TV both for superior control, and to preserve the Joy-Cons for use in handheld mode.

    What are my options when it comes to extra Nintendo Switch controllers?

    There are four main types of secondary Nintendo Switch controllers. The first is “pro-style” controllers. These controllers are similar in design to the PlayStation and Xbox controllers that have become the standard form factor over the past 10 years. Even PC gamepads tend to mimic many of the design elements of these two controllers and Nintendo Switch pro-style controllers carry on that tradition. Next are retro controllers, whose form factors recall consoles of the past. You can get Nintendo Switch controllers that mimic Nintendo and Sega controllers from the 8-bit era (Nintendo Entertainment System) all the way to the 128-bit era (Nintendo GameCube). These controllers are adjusted to have all the buttons features on a set of Joy-Cons, but have dimensions and color combinations that harken back to gaming days past. Third are arcade sticks, which feature a joystick instead of a directional pad or analog thumbstick and all the buttons on the face of a large rectangular base. These controllers look like the control set-ups for arcade games and are sometimes referred to as a “fight stick” because of their prevalence in use among high-level non-“Smash Bros.” fighting game players (think back to putting your quarters on “Street Fighter” to call next). Lastly, you have controller set-ups, grips, or docks that are meant to enhance or replace the Joy-Cons while the Switch is in handheld mode. These Nintendo Switch controllers may offer wider grip bases or different-style button layouts that may appeal to many users.

    Are all these controllers compatible with the Switch Lite?

    The Nintendo Switch Lite, which costs less than the standard Switch and has controllers bonded to its screen (plus no TV hookup capabilities), is compatible with any Nintendo Switch Wireless controller without issue. Simply pair the controller with the Switch Lite the same way you would with the Switch. In fact, because the Switch Lite does not feature rumble compatibility with its built-in controllers, pairing Joy-Cons or another wireless rumble-compatible controller with it is the only way to initiate this feature. Wired controllers are a different beast, however. While there are no Nintendo-created wired controllers for the Switch Lite, there is an officially licensed adapter by the controller and accessory company Hori that not only allows the use of wired Switch controllers with the Switch Lite but also serves as a stand to tilt the screen up towards the player.

    Which Switch controller is right for me?

    While there are a few Nintendo Switch controllers that stand above the rest in terms of quality, the most important consideration before you buy an extra controller for your Switch is your own play tendencies. If you play in handheld mode almost all the time, you may simply want to invest in some additional Joy-Cons. If you want to play certain games, there are certain styles of controller that are popular with those games, like GameCube-style controllers with “Super Smash Bros.” Do you absolutely need wireless? Wired controllers tend to be a little cheaper, so if your Switch dock is quite close to where you usually sit to play, you may want to go with a wired option. Assess your own situation first, then consult the experts.

    The Best Nintendo Switch controllers Reviews & Recommendations

    All of the below options serve their functions expertly, have a solid track record of quality for both the controller and the company, and feel pretty great in our tester’s hands. As our picks for the best Nintendo Switch controllers, consider them all “highly recommended.”

    Best Nintendo Switch pro-style controller: Nintendo Switch Pro Controller

    Nintendo

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    Why it made the cut: Every feature you want in an ergonomic form factor with the reliability and performance that can only be guaranteed by a first-party product, Nintendo’s premium wireless controller gets everything right, from the weight to the springiness of the shoulder buttons. A joy to use.

    Specs:

    • Wireless
    • Motion Controls
    • Rumble Compatibility
    • Amiibo Reader
    • Internal battery charges with USB-C to USB-A cable included
    Pros:Cons:
  • Great layout
  • More expensive than third-party controllers
  • Responsive directional pad
  • Very few color choices
  • Every needed feature included
  • When it comes to a pro-style controller, you want two things: feel and performance. Nintendo’s Switch Pro Controller delivers both. Extremely well-fitted to most adult hands, the Pro Controller has just the right weight, comfortable and responsive buttons and sticks, and plenty of bells and whistles. Want to use motion controls like you could with the Joy-Cons? Check. Want to scan the chips in your Amiibo figures, unlocking bonuses in some of your games? Check. Want the buzzes and “bzzts” that come from rumble feedback? Check. The battery life on the Pro Controller is impressive, too, outperforming both the PS4’s DualShock4 and the Xbox One’s Wireless Controller. The only drawback of the Pro Controller is that, as a first-party Nintendo product, it rarely goes on sale. If you want one (and I think you do want one), you’re most likely going to have to plunk down $60. While that’s more than most other Nintendo Switch controllers, it’s worth every penny.

    Best third-party controller for Switch: PowerA Enhanced Wireless Controller

    PowerA

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    Why it made the cut: More easily found on sale than the first-party Pro Controller, the PowerA Enhanced offers essentially the same form factor and responsiveness while adding programmable buttons in place of some of the Pro Controller’s features.

    Specs:

    • Wireless
    • Motion Controls
    • Internal battery charges with USB-C to USB-A cable included
    Pros:Cons:
  • Programmable buttons
  • No rumble support or Amiibo reader
  • Same great feel as the Pro Controller
  • Some users complain of drift issues with the thumbstick
  • Extra-long battery life
  • PowerA is a solid brand in the realm of video game accessories. The company’s Pro Controller clone, the Enhanced Wireless Controller, is our pick for the best 3rd party controller for Switch. With impressive battery life, the Enhanced Wireless Controller will last as long as you need and charges with an included USB-C to USB-A cable. Due to being a third-party product, you’re more likely to find the Enhanced Wireless Controller on sale than a Pro Controller, meaning you can save anywhere from $10 to $20 over the Pro pretty regularly. What do you lose? Well, there have been some reports of the thumbsticks in the Enhanced developing drift worryingly soon, though the reviews overall are pretty stellar and I personally haven’t experienced the problem. Amiibo figure chip reading is not supported in the Enhanced, nor is rumble functionality. Outside of those negatives, you get the ability to remap your buttons controller-side, meaning you can swap out button functions even if the settings on a game don’t allow it. This is a boon for accessibility for certain gamers with disabilities or those who just like their cancel button and accept button to be consistent across games.

    Best GameCube-style controller for Switch: PowerA Wireless GameCube Style Controller

    PowerA

    SEE IT

    Why it made the cut: For serious “Super Smash Bros. Ultimate” players, nothing but a GameCube-style controller will do. PowerA powers ahead of its competitors due to its improved directional pad and wireless freedom.

    Specs:

    • Wireless
    • Motion Controls
    • Powered via two AA batteries (included)
    • GameCube form factor with slightly larger directional pad
    Pros:Cons:
  • Classic GameCube feel with larger directional pad
  • AA battery-based instead of rechargeable lithium-ion
  • Wireless
  • No Amiibo or rumble support
  • Excellent color options
  • The top-level “Super Smash Bros. Ultimate” players largely prefer a GameCube-style controller to even the Pro Controller because of the button layout and/or having learned to play the game in the “Super Smash Bros. Melee” era. If you have a similar feeling, there are a lot of Nintendo Switch controllers on the market but none quite capture that GameCube feel like PowerA’s Wireless GameCube Style Controller. All the classic color palettes from the turn of the millennium are available, starting with classic pack-in purple and going all the way to Wavebird grey. Everything about this controller feels right, except the directional pad, which actually feels better thanks to being made larger and more tactile. A drawback of this particular controller is that it’s powered not by an internal lithium-ion battery, but by AA batteries. This can lead to some expenses over time and an annoying need to keep fresh batteries on hand (though you can get your own rechargeable AA batteries), but for those who truly want to “Smash, it’s 100-percent worth it.

    Best arcade stick for Switch: 8BitDo Arcade Stick

    8Bitdo

    SEE IT

    Why it made the cut: Great visual panache, authentic feel, and solid construction make the 8BitDo Arcade Stick stand out among its peers.

    Specs:

    • Wireless or Wired (with USB-C)
    • Mappable buttons
    • PC Compatibility
    • Internal battery charges with USB-C
    Pros:Cons:
  • Gorgeous to look at
  • Expensive compared to game pads
  • Mappable/programmable buttons with macro support
  • Cannot be used with games that require two analog sticks
  • Internal battery
  • Can also be used with a PC
  • If you’re into retro gaming or 2D fighting games, you probably understand the value of a good arcade stick. Dropping the two analog sticks for a single joystick, the 8BitDo Arcade Stick offers that nostalgic cabinet feel with a nice, clicky, responsive gumball stick and springy, clicky buttons that are fully programmable. The Arcade Stick is a unique tool that is only appropriate for certain games. For example, trying to play “The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild” with this controller simply wouldn’t work, given the lack of a second stick. However, if you want to bust out some “Street Fighter 30th Anniversary,” “Mortal Kombat 11,” or “Dragon Ball FighterZ” with full control over your champion of choice, there really is no choice in the matter. As shown by their adoption in high-level fighting-game tournaments like EVO, arcade sticks are simply the superior option when it comes to non-“Smash Bros.” fighting games. Your old-school arcade beat-em-ups, shoot-em-ups, and score-em-ups will feel more like the originals, too. The Arcade Stick is one of the more expensive controllers we’re profiling, with a base price of $90, but that’s actually really good among arcade sticks across all platforms, with tournament-quality sticks sometimes reaching $200-$250. Assuming your library has enough games to benefit from the Arcade Stick, it’s a strong recommendation for the best Nintendo Switch controller for arcade games.

    Best handheld mode upgrade for Switch: Hori Split-Pad Pro

    HORI

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    Why it made the cut: Handheld mode can use an upgrade and Hori offers that with the Split Pad Pro, which improves nearly every facet of the handheld control experience, as long as you’re willing to make your Switch considerably bigger.

    Specs:

    • Replaces the Joy-Cons
    • Larger grip, buttons, triggers, analog sticks, and directional pad than Joy-Cons
    • Assignable rear triggers
    • Turbo functionality
    • Must be connected to Switch screen to function—does not work as a separated controller, and not compatible with Switch Lite
    Pros:Cons:
  • All inputs are larger
  • Heavier than Joy-Cons
  • System is easier to grip
  • Cannot be used when separated from the Switch screen
  • Buttons and sticks are comfortable and responsive
  • Not compatible with Switch Lite
  • No motion controls or rumble
  • All of the Nintendo Switch controllers before now have been separate models that are designed with television play in mind. Hori offers a slightly different improvement in their handheld mode Joy-Con replacement, the Split Pad Pro. The Split Pad Pro tries to bring the separate controller experience to the handheld Switch but expanding the sides and depth of the unit, offering a rounded grip, sizing up all the buttons and analog sticks, and offering a true direction pad in place of the “button pad” of the Joy-Con. Despite the size increase, I personally didn’t find the added weight off-putting, though children and adults with smaller hands might feel as if the Switch has become unwieldy initially with the Split Pad Pro. You can still slide the Switch screen into the dock when the Split Pad Pro is connected; there’s enough clearance from the grips that it shouldn’t prevent a connection. There are two additional buttons within the crook of the Split Pad Pro’s left and right grip that are programmable, allowing you to actually add new functionality over a Joy-Con. Action and adventure games like “Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild” or “Mario Odyssey” benefit greatly from the Split Pad Pro, but keep in mind that a modicum of functionality is lost, such as motion controls, rumble, NFC, and IR.

    Best single-game controller upgrade: Nintendo Joy-Con Wheel

    Nintendo

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    Why it made the cut: It’s just a plastic frame for a Joy-Con that resembles a steering wheel. And yet, for “Mario Kart 8 Deluxe,” that’s enough.

    Specs:

    • Plastic cradle for the Joy-Con
    • Resembles a steering wheel
    • Two in one package
    Pros:Cons:
  • Resembles a steering wheel
  • Only resembles a steering wheel
  • First things first, do not buy the Nintendo Joy-Con Wheel if you answer “no” to these questions: Do you own, or plan to own, “Mario Kart Deluxe 8?” Do you use motion controls when playing “Mario Kart Deluxe 8?” If you’re still with me, you should buy the Nintendo Joy-Con Wheel. Motion controls with the tiny, single Joy-Con are incredibly frustrating when Karting, and simply by slicking a Joy-Con into one of these plastic wheels, you get a stronger sense of how much tilts is the right amount of tilt to get your turns going. Do these plastic frames have any other use? Absolutely not. But they do exactly what they need to for their single use and, because they’re made by Nintendo, the plastic is high-quality and the fit for the Joy-Con is perfect.

    FAQs

    Q: Does the Pro Controller drift?

    No analog stick is entirely immune to drift, but there have been very few reports, even after years of being on the market, of Pro Controller stick drifting. Can the Pro Controller drift? I’m sure it can. Does the Pro Controller drift? It seems like an incredibly rare instance.

    Q: Are third-party Switch controllers better?

    While they offer some options that the Joy-Cons and Pro Controller from Nintendo do not, I can confidently say the best controller on the market is, in fact, the Pro Controller. However, the best controllers from third parties are not far behind at all. So while no third-party controllers are not better, they are a perfectly reasonable alternative to save a few bucks or if things like mappable buttons, wider PC compatibility, and turbo functionality are important to you.

    Q: Why do pro “Smash Bros.” players use GameCube controllers?

    The “Smash Bros.” pro scene really didn’t start to develop until the second game, “Super Smash Bros. Melee” for GameCube, was released. Many players cut their teeth on this version and some even continued to prefer it to the Wii “Smash Bros.” game released several years later. Even those that did switch to the Wii game tended to use GameCube controllers instead of Wiimotes because they offered more precision and the first few iterations of the Wii console had built-in GameCube controller ports, requiring no adapters at all. Because of this multigeneration precedent, much of the instruction in YouTube videos or strategies discussed online are based upon the assumption of players using GameCube controllers. That isn’t to say you can’t be a competitive “Smash Bros.” player using another controller type; there are successful players using Pro Controllers right now.

    The final word on the best Nintendo Switch controllers

    Overall, the Nintendo Pro Controller is the easiest of our profiled items to recommend to all players. It improved the most experiences across the board while not sacrificing any compatibility. However, our other options provide very specific benefits that you should consider before deciding which controller to pick up. No matter what you choose, I do recommend buying at least two additional controllers to add to your original right and left JoyCon. This allows for four-player “Mario Kart,” “Mario Party,” or “Smash Bros.” games in your living room—though there may be some fighting over the “superior” controllers.

    The post Best Nintendo Switch controllers of 2023 appeared first on Popular Science.

    Articles may contain affiliate links which enable us to share in the revenue of any purchases made.

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    Save up to $250 on beyerdynamic headphones with this bonkers big deal https://www.popsci.com/gear/beyerdynamic-headphones-sale/ Tue, 02 Aug 2022 15:50:00 +0000 https://www.popsci.com/?p=459717
    A line-up of headphones on a white background
    Amanda Reed

    B-sure to take advantage of beyerdynamic’s B-stock promo event deals.

    The post Save up to $250 on beyerdynamic headphones with this bonkers big deal appeared first on Popular Science.

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    A line-up of headphones on a white background
    Amanda Reed

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    Whether you’re going back to school or back to the studio, a solid pair of headphones is invaluable. There is nothing more beautiful than basking in just the right amount of bass while you’re untangling mixed metaphors or mastering your next single. Actually, there’s one thing more beautiful: Saving money while you do it.

    That’s why we’re excited that beyerdynamic’s DT 900 Pro X open-back studio headphones—which we think are pretty stellar—are on sale for $159, down from its $299 list price, as part of its B-stock promo event, happening today through August 9. That’s $140 leftover to spend on Beyoncé merch or this Bob Dylan record or your next USB microphone. Even better? You get free shipping when you buy. 

    beyerdynamic

    SEE IT

    The DT 900 Pro X are balanced-response beauties that feature a proprietary Stellar.45 dynamic driver with a neodymium magnet, three-layer diaphragm with integrated damping, and a copper-covered voice coil. Best of all, these beyerdynamic headphones are expertly designed in Germany to be sonically dependable and physically durable. Replaceable parts, from the plush ear cushions to the driver itself, mean you don’t have to bawl if they break—which means you’re getting your bang for your buck when you buy from beyerdynamic. 

    If button-smashing is more your beat, check out beyerdynamic’s gaming headphones. We’re partial to the MMX 100, now $61 and 38% off retail pricing. Get studio-level sound with PC, Xbox, Playstation, and Nintendo Switch games, and get maximum comfort while you do it, thanks to the headphones’ bouncy softskin earpads with memory foam filling. 

    Believe us when we say you won’t want to miss this bangin’ bargain, which features everything from the DT 1990 Pro, our pick for the best overall professional mixing headphones, to more casual cans. Check out the other products in beyerdynamics’ B-Stock promo event today, because you’ll be B-side yourself if you miss these discounts:

    The post Save up to $250 on beyerdynamic headphones with this bonkers big deal appeared first on Popular Science.

    Articles may contain affiliate links which enable us to share in the revenue of any purchases made.

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    Best cheap gaming mice in 2023 https://www.popsci.com/reviews/best-cheap-gaming-mice/ Wed, 10 Nov 2021 14:00:00 +0000 https://www.popsci.com/?p=401633
    Best Cheap Gaming Mice

    The best cheap gamin mice built for competitive gaming are no longer a pipe dream.

    The post Best cheap gaming mice in 2023 appeared first on Popular Science.

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    Best Cheap Gaming Mice

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    Best wired Consair Sabre PGB Pro is the best cheap gaming mouse. Corsair Sabre RGB Pro Champion Series
    SEE IT

    Corsair’s Sabre RGB Pro Champion Series might not look like a hardcore gaming peripheral, but few other mice can match its flexibility, accuracy, and comfort at just $50.

    Best wireless Corsair Harpoon RGB is the best cheap gaming mouse. Corsair Harpoon RGB wireless
    SEE IT

    The Harpoon RGB Wireless’ low latency, long rechargeable battery life, and ergonomic frame are surprising for a budget wireless mouse.

    Best esports The HyperX Pulsefire Haste is the best Cheap Gaming mouse. HyperX Pulsefire Haste
    SEE IT

    HyperX’s Pulsefire Haste is a small, lightweight mouse with an excellent sensor that doesn’t sacrifice comfort or durability for performance.

    Over the last few years, gaming mice have evolved to match the needs of the growing esports market. These days, the ideal gaming mouse is light, strips out unnecessary frills, and packs an excellent sensor that can handle competitive play. With such specific demands, it’s easy to assume a decent gaming mouse should cost a pretty penny, but the esports boom elevated the baseline quality for consumer-level gaming equipment, mice included. That doesn’t mean every gaming mouse is great, though. Every gamer is different and you should take the time to find the best cheap gaming mouse to fit your needs—and your hand.

    How we selected the best cheap gaming mice

    Our picks for the best cheap gaming mice were selected by Popular Science’s reviews editor, Mike Epstein, based on his years of hands-on experience reviewing just about every noteworthy model on the market, as well as the experiences of our peers and other trusted sources. Since we focused heavily on mice built for esports with good-to-great sensors, we primarily judged each model on its ergonomics, paying special attention to weight and size, and we made sure to evaluate which grip styles work best with each mouse. Click latency and battery life were also important considerations for the wireless models we selected. 

    Things to consider before buying a gaming mouse

    There are a few important factors to keep in mind when judging a gaming mouse’s performance, comfort, and overall viability for your gaming style.

    Sensor

    The best gaming mice released in the last couple of years tend to feature good sensors—good enough that you don’t necessarily need to fret over hardware specs anymore. Still, as you look at lower-priced gear, you’ll find that some mice feature great sensors, and others feature something more, well, cheap.

    When looking at gaming mouse specs, you’ll often see manufacturers tout a mouse’s maximum sensitivity, which effectively determines the mouse’s cursor speed. Sensitivity or tracking is measured in DPI (dots per inch) resolution. You may also see it listed as CPI (counts per inch). Either way, it notes the highest possible cursor speed setting. Most manufacturers use high-DPI sensors that can reach resolutions far beyond what anyone would ever use, often exceeding 10,000 to 20,000 DPI. 

    You’re not locked into your mouse’s maximum DPI, though, as most gaming mice let you tune the DPI settings using configuration software or onboard controls. The “right” DPI settings will differ for everyone and may even vary from game to game. For reference, I usually set my mouse to well below 2,000 for shooters but will bump it up for action-RPGs or strategy games. Competitive players will actually turn their DPI very low to enhance their precision, even if it means they have to swing their arm across their desk to move their mouse across the screen.

    Aspiring pros may also want to check a mouse’s speed (sometimes referred to as “accuracy”), which tells you fast you can move your mouse before the sensor starts losing track of its position.

    Size, shape, and grip style

    Mouse shape is arguably the most important, and most malleable, facet of any mouse—gaming or otherwise. Having a mouse that supports your hand and feels comfortable to hold ensures you can use it for as long as you like without cramping or pain, and achieve your personal best performance in games. 

    Many esports mice, which comprise the majority of this list, describe themselves as “ambidextrous” mice, which are uniformly round and aren’t molded to fit specific hand shapes. Most of the time, they are not actually ambidextrous, because they lack secondary thumb buttons for left-handed players. It is a worst-of-both-worlds situation because molding a mouse for a specific hand—almost always the right—allows the manufacturer to create a mouse that naturally supports your hand.

    Faux-ambidextrous mice have value for many players, though. While smaller, ambidextrous mice feel awkward or even uncomfortable when you hold them with the standard grip, called “palm” in gaming circles, many gamers use alternative “claw” or “fingertip” grips, where you do not lay your hand flat on your mouse. If your hand doesn’t grip the mouse, then its shape doesn’t matter as much. For this list, we will note if a particular grip style works better than the others for our picks.

    Input latency

    Input latency, the time between when you move your mouse or click a button and when those actions are reflected in your game, is something you want to avoid. We’ve reached a point where latency is mostly a non-issue for most players, even when using wireless mice. 

    Polling rate, measured in Hz, is a spec that tells you how many times a mouse sends instructions to your computer per second. In 2021, the standard for both wired and wireless mice is 1,000Hz, or 1,000 signals per second. There are some high-end mice that achieve a higher polling rate, but that is a high-end feature for more expensive mice.

    That said, wireless mice that connect via Bluetooth usually have higher input latency than other connection types. Depending on your sensitivity to input lag, it may or may not be a factor. In general, we look for wireless gaming mice that connect to a 2.4GHz USB dongle, which provides a less laggy connection.

    Weight

    Gaming mice vary widely in weight and the right weight is a matter of preference. Esports mice tend to be smaller and lighter than your average gaming mouse, making them easier to move around your desk. You should shoot for a mouse that weighs less than 3.5 ounces, and preferably something below 3 ounces if you’re serious about fast hand movements. Heavier mice have their uses, too, as extra resistance offers more control. Some models include removable weights, though this isn’t a common feature for cheaper esports-specific mice.

    The best cheap gaming mice: Reviews & recommendations

    Armed with this information, you’re ready to strike out on your own and find the best cheap gaming mouse for you. If you want a head start, we’ve been doing this for a while so let us take care of some of the guesswork by highlighting our picks.

    Unless otherwise specified, all of the mice on this list cost $50 or less. (We have one slightly more expensive pick to highlight what you can get if you’re willing to spend a little extra.) They’re all perfect for gaming, but each one has its own strengths to suit particular lifestyles and gameplay needs.

    Best for esports: HyperX Pulsefire Haste

    HyperX

    SEE IT

    Why it made the cut: HyperX’s Pulsefire Haste is a small, lightweight mouse with an excellent sensor that doesn’t sacrifice comfort or durability for performance.

    Specs:

    • Maximum Sensor Resolution: 16,000 DPI
    • Dimensions: 2.58 inches x 4.9 inches x  1.41 inches (WDH)
    • Weight: 2.01 ounces
    • Connection: Wired USB
    ProsCons
    Very lightweight Small size may not support larger hands
    Great DPI sensor resolution for the price
    Onboard memory for up to five customizable DPI presets

    The HyperX Pulsefire Haste’s standout trait is its lightweight design. As the best cheap esports mouse, it’s pretty small and weighs in at just over 2 ounces thanks to its honeycombed chassis. Some manufacturers make ergonomic concessions to hit those measurements, but the Pulsefire Haste manages to stay comfortable and drop down to an esports-grade “fighting” weight. It feels best when used with the claw grip, but isn’t so small that you can’t use it with a palm grip—as long as it fits your hand.

    The Pulsefire Haste’s Pixart 335 sensor tracks at up to 16,000 DPI and is accurate at up to 450 inches per second, so your speedy hand movements will translate to accurate in-game actions. The mouse also performs well in lower DPI settings, which you can swap to on the fly to suit your gameplay needs at a given moment. The internal memory stores up to five DPI presets and RGB profiles, which are programmed with HyperX’s Ngenuity desktop app and cycled through with the DPI button just behind the RGB-lit scroll wheel. If you need more than the five the mouse saves locally, the desktop app can also store additional mouse profiles on your PC with their own presets. To be fair, a set of adjustable DPI presets is a ubiquitous gaming mouse feature these days, but the Pulsefire Haste is one of those rare mice with a spec sheet that punches above its weight.

    Best wired: Corsair Sabre RGB Pro Champion Series

    Why it made the cut: Corsair’s Sabre RGB Pro Champion Series might not look like a hardcore gaming peripheral, but few other mice can match its flexibility, accuracy, and comfort at just $50.

    Specs:

    • Maximum Sensor Resolution: 18,000 DPI
    • Dimensions: 2.7 inches x 5.02 inches x 1.37 inches (WDH)
    • Weight: 2.43 ounces
    • Connection: Wired USB
    ProsCons
    Great sensor for price PC-only “Hyperpolling” requires extra processing power
    Very comfortable
    Great on-the-fly DPI customization

    The Corsair Sabre RGB Pro Champion Series’ well-rounded specs can fulfill multiple roles other than the best cheap wired gaming mouse. It sports a simple, unassuming aesthetic that would fit in a professional setup without screaming “gamer gear.” At 2.43 ounces, it’s very light, allowing for speedy movement, and its dedicated right-handed design offers better ergonomics than other small gaming mice.

    The Corsair RGB Pro Champion’s sensor has a maximum 18,000 DPI resolution, better than most gaming mice at this price point. It also allows you to fine-tune your DPI setting, raising or lowering your tracking in 50 DPI increments, with the option to quickly revert back to your DPI presets with simple button combos.

    The Sabre RGB Pro Champion Series also features “Hyperpolling,” which increases the polling rate above the standard 1,000Hz. Raising the polling rate, particularly to the potentially useful 8,000Hz, requires more computing power than merely using a mouse, which is an odd issue to consider. Other companies have managed to offer 8,000Hz polling without a CPU hit, so this is, in fact, a “budget” version of better polling. That said, it’s also the only mouse under $50 that offers it, so it’s not all bad. More importantly, the Sabre RGB Pro Champion Series is still a great mouse even with Hyperpolling turned off, especially within its price range.

    Best wireless: Corsair Harpoon RGB wireless

    Why it made the cut: The Harpoon RGB Wireless’ low latency, long rechargeable battery life, and ergonomic frame are surprising for a compact wireless gaming mouse that only costs $50.

    Specs: 

    • Maximum Sensor Resolution: 10,000 DPI
    • Dimensions: 2.67 inches x 4.56 inches x 1.77 inches (WDH)
    • Weight: 3.65 ounces (without charging cable)
    • Connection: 2.4GHz wireless USB; Bluetooth 5.0; Wired USB 
    ProsCons
    Strong sensor Comparatively heavy
    Lots of connection options
    Great battery life

    As the best cheap wireless gaming mouse the Corsair’s Harpoon RGB Wireless has excellent specs and features for a $50 wireless mouse. The Pixart PMW335 sensor tracks up to 10,000 DPI, and there are buttons to quickly bump the DPI up or down by 200 DPI increments. It gets a very healthy 40 hours of battery life and offers 2.4GHz and Bluetooth wireless connectivity, giving you the freedom to choose between a more stable connection and a more power-efficient one. (It also allows you to connect it to more devices, including phones.)

    The Harpoon RGB Wireless’ only potential drawbacks as an esports mouse are its weight and size. The mouse weighs 3.65 ounces due to the internal battery and wireless sensors, and if you plug in its charging cable, the whole thing jumps to 5.11 ounces. In either configuration, the Harpoon RGB Wireless will feel a bit heavier compared to a wired esports mouse, and even some of its wireless competitors. 

    Best for travel: SteelSeries Rival 3 Wireless

    Why it made the cut: The Rival 3 Wireless’ long battery life and tiny footprint are perfect for traveling, and it supports multiple connection types to fit in with any remote gaming setup.

    Specs:

    • Maximum Sensor Resolution: 18,000 dpi
    • Dimensions: 2.62 inches x 4.87 inches x 1.43 inches (WDH)
    • Weight: 3.74 ounces
    • Connection: Bluetooth 5.0; 2.4Gz Wireless USB; Wired USB
    ProsCons
    Supports multiple wireless connection typesPower-saver mode impacts performance
    Very long battery life Heavier than wired mice
    Flexible weight and power options

    The Rival 3 Wireless is the best cheap gaming mouse for traveling. Its signature feature—an incredible 400-hour battery life—makes it the right pick for gamers on the go. It only lasts that long in “high-efficiency” mode, which reduces the mouse’s polling rate, but even without that, you’re still getting an incredible amount of usage on a pair of AAAs. That’s right: Like many less expensive wireless mice, the Rival 3 requires disposable batteries for power. While not ideal, the incredible amount of time you get from them is hard to pass up.

    The SteelSeries Rival 3 Wireless’ TrueMove Air sensor boasts a maximum 18,000 DPI, which is better than most other $50 mice. For connectivity, the Rival 3 supports either Bluetooth or 2.4Ghz wireless, so you can pair the mouse with just about any device and keep room for other cordless peripherals.

    There is one drawback to the Rival 3’s fully wireless nature, however: it’s relatively heavy. The batteries and wireless components in the mouse ups its weight to 3.74 ounces. If you can sacrifice some battery life, SteelSeries wisely engineered the Rival 3 Wireless to work just fine on a single AAA battery, which brings the weight down to 3.14 ounces. Could it be lighter? Sure, but a little extra weight is a compromise you have to make to go wireless.

    Best under $50: Roccat Burst Pro

    Why it made the cut: The Burst Pro is more comfortable than other esports mice, has optical switches, and a sensor that outclasses most mice below its price point.

    Specs:

    • Maximum Sensor Resolution: 16,000 DPI
    • Dimensions: 2.62 inches x 4.83 inches x1.5 inches (WDH)
    • Weight: 2.33 ounces
    • Connection: Wired USB
    ProsCons
    Great sensor performance for the price. Takes more effort to grip than other mice.
    Optical click switches are more responsive and durable.
    Good hand support for this type of mouse.

    The Roccat Burst Pro is similar to the other mice on this list in many key ways: it’s a 6-button device aimed at esports players, with a small handful of extra features like RGB lighting and programmable buttons, and wired USB connectivity. It’s a pretty standard gaming mouse. Its overall performance and specs, however, make a big leap, even though it only costs $10 more.

    The Burst Pro features Roccat’s custom Owl-Eye sensor, which is essentially a retooled Pixart PMW3389, with tracking that tops out at 16,000 DPI and stays accurate at up to 400 inches per second. In practice, the Burst Pro’s in-game performance feels like a much more expensive mouse. It also sports Roccat’s “Titan” optical mouse switches, rather than mechanical switches, which minimize input lag and increase button durability. At 2.33 ounces, it’s definitely a competitive contender, too.

    It’s also a sharp, distinctive-looking mouse. It has a dual-layer chassis that includes a honeycombed plastic inner layer and a smooth, transparent plastic outer shell with a matte finish, which creates a pleasing soft glow effect when the internal RGB lights shine through. It’s a great fit for any player’s gaming PC “battlestation.”

    Best under $30: Logitech G203 Lightsync

    Why it made the cut: Logitech manages to fit a decent gaming-quality sensor and RGB lighting into the G203 Lightsync’s tiny frame for less than $40.

    Specs:

    • Maximum Sensor Resolution: 8,000 DPI
    • Dimensions: 2.27 inches x 4.5 inches x 1.37 inches (WDH)
    • Weight: 2.86 ounces
    • Connection: Wired USB
    ProsCons
    Good sensor performance at a low price No onboard memory
    Accommodates claw and palm-style grips Heavy for its size/shape
    Less expensive than other new cheap gaming mice

    The Logitech G203 Lightsync is a very simple, 6-button gaming mouse. At $40, however, one of the least modern mice you can get from a top manufacturer. While Logitech definitely held back in places to hit the G203 Lightsync’s $40 price point, the device still performs exceptionally well. The sensor’s maximum resolution is a respectable 8,000 DPI and is accurate at up to 200 inches per second. Sure, that lags behind higher-end mice that are twice the price, but squares up well against most other options in the same sub-$50 range.

    The G203 Lightsync definitely falls within the general sizing standards of esports mice and is best used with the claw grip, but it’s tall enough to accommodate palm grip users, too. However, it’s heavier than most wired models at 2.86 ounces, so you won’t get the full benefits of the tinier form factor an esports mouse is meant to confer.

    If there’s anything “missing” from the G203 Lightsync compared to the other options on this list, it’s onboard memory. The G203 Lightsync can’t store DPI presets internally to use on any device. You can still save them on your PC with the G Hub app, though, so it may not seem like a huge loss. It’s very basic, but it’s the best version of basic you can get at such a low price.

    FAQs

    Q: What is a normal price for a gaming mouse?

    The price of gaming mice can vary quite a bit. For the most part, most players should expect to pay somewhere between $50-$100 for a good wired gaming mouse, or between $80-$150 for a good wireless gaming mouse. Of course, these ranges are not set in stone. There are incredible mice for under $50, and ultra-high-end mice that cost $200 or more.

    Q: What mouse do you need to drag click?

    “Drag clicking” is a popular, if controversial, technique where you drag your finger back-and-forth across a mouse left-click panel with gentle but consistent pressure to register multiple clicks in rapid succession. It’s a coveted trick in Minecraft and other games where higher CPS (clicks per second) confers tangible gameplay benefits (dealing more damage per second, for example).

    If drag clicking is a major consideration when buying your next gaming mouse, look for a mouse with optical mouse switches, such as Roccat Burst Pro. You could also consider looking for a mouse with a polling rate above 1,000Hz, like the Corsair Sabre RGB Pro Champion Series.

    It’s worth pointing out that drag clicking can damage your mouse if done incorrectly or too much. Most mouse switches are rated to last through 10 million to 50 million clicks, and you will burn through them very quickly this way. And if you do it too well, drag clicking may even trip a game’s anti-cheat services, which could get you banned from it permanently.

    Q: What type of mouse is the best for gaming?

    The best type of mouse for gaming is one that fits your needs. Your gaming mouse should feel comfortable in your hand, and provide the necessary specs and features that help you perform well and have fun. 

    There are all kinds of mice designed for different types of players. MMORPG players may enjoy mice with lots of programmable buttons. Shooter fans should look for mice that perform well at lower DPI settings and support quick DPI adjustments; MOBA players will want a smaller mouse with good sensor accuracy at higher DPI settings so they can move the cursor quickly with minimal hand movements.

    Final thoughts on the best cheap gaming mice

    You don’t need to spend a lot of money to get one of the best gaming mice. Yes, there are incredible, feature-rich mice that are worth $100 or more, but if you focus on the basics and getting high performance, you can get everything you need from the best cheap gaming mice.

    The post Best cheap gaming mice in 2023 appeared first on Popular Science.

    Articles may contain affiliate links which enable us to share in the revenue of any purchases made.

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    MSI Immerse GV60 microphone review: Game on for audio recording https://www.popsci.com/gear/msi-immerse-gv60-mic-review/ Fri, 22 Jul 2022 16:00:00 +0000 https://www.popsci.com/?p=457657
    MSI Immerse GV60 USB mic on a boom arm
    The MSI GV60 Immerse mic brings generous pickup patterns and front panel controls at an approachable price point. Markkus Rovito

    A new, unexpected player has entered the USB-C mic arena to put everything you need into a well-priced package.

    The post MSI Immerse GV60 microphone review: Game on for audio recording appeared first on Popular Science.

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    MSI Immerse GV60 USB mic on a boom arm
    The MSI GV60 Immerse mic brings generous pickup patterns and front panel controls at an approachable price point. Markkus Rovito

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    When an electronics company known for one thing makes a lateral move into a new device type, it can be cause for celebration or scrutiny. MSI famously makes gaming computers, hardware, and peripherals. However, USB microphones are now also eSports accessories and there may be as many USB mic models for sale as there are PS5 games. So, the introduction of MSI’s Immerse GV60 streaming microphone isn’t that dubious of a debut. The fact remains, however, that it’s hard for USB mics to stand out in such a crowded field. That’s why the MSI Immerse GV60 stakes its claim on comprehensive features and good audio results for a competitive price.

    At $129 MSRP (typically less in the cart), the MSI Immerse GV60 costs close to or below many of our favorites, such as the Blue Microphones Yeti X or the Elgato Wave:3. Yet, for that price, it delivers just about everything you may need from a USB mic: high-resolution audio, mounting options, no-latency headphone monitoring, four pickup (polar) patterns, and convenient front-panel controls. Let’s take a closer look at what makes the GV60 a USB mic that works for any purpose—not just gaming, but also podcasting, meetings, video creation, music recording … whatever you need.

    Markkus Rovito

    SEE IT

    The MSI Immerse GV60’s design

    While I would not call it a copycat of the Blue Microphones Yeti and Yeti X USB mics, the MSI Immerse GV60 does take on a similar look, feel, and height to the two flagship Yetis. Like them, the GV60 is a plug-and-play USB condenser microphone with a solid metal (matte-finished aluminum) chassis and robust metal stand with a padded bottom to protect tabletop finishes. Size-wise, it’s just a bit smaller than the Yeti, while the weights are similar. Measured on a digital scale, the GV60 mic alone weighs 1.3 pounds compared to the Yeti’s 1.05 pounds, while the GV60 in its included stand weighs 2.4 pounds, while the Yeti in its stand weighs 2.9 pounds.

    When mounted on the desktop stand, the GV60 swivels within the brackets for you to find the right angle, and it unscrews from the brackets so that you can mount it to a standard microphone boom arm from the 5/8-inch threaded hole on the underside of the mic. Also on the underside are the USB-C port for connecting the included 3-meter USB-C to USB-A cable to a computer or mobile device, plus a 3.5mm headphone output.

    It only took about a minute to unscrew the Immerse GV60 from its stand and screw it securely onto a no-frills On-Stage MBS5000 mic boom arm, but the MSI stand’s screws have some loose washers that you must be careful not to spill onto the floor. A foam pop filter comes in the box and fits over the mic head.

    Getting started with the MSI Immerse GV60

    The Immerse GV60 requires no drivers or any other software to work as a plug-and-play USB mic with macOS and Windows 10 and higher machines. MSI’s website does not list mobile devices as compatible; however, I used the GV60 with both a 2018 iPad Pro iOS tablet and a Motorola Stylus G Android phone with no problems. In both cases, I plugged the mic straight into the mobile devices with a USB-C cable and the devices recognized the mic as both the audio output and audio input for recording from various apps. Whether used with a computer or mobile device, the mic draws USB power, so keep that in mind when considering battery levels.

    The MSI Immerse GV60’s key features

    While I mentioned a similar feel to the Immerse GV60 compared to the Blue Yeti and Yeti X, the MSI mic differs in a couple of key aspects. For one, all of its controls are on the front of the mic, where they are easy to see and reach. Also, the GV60’s 24-bit/96 kHz maximum audio resolution exceeds that of the Yeti (16-bit/48 kHz) and the Yeti X (24-bit/48 kHz). While 16-bit/48 kHz audio resolution is still typically enough for the most common use cases of a USB mic—such as podcasting, YouTube and other online videos, video conferencing, gaming, and so on—it can’t hurt to have the extra high-res capability of the GV60, whether it’s for producing music or future-proofing for emerging formats—especially when the GV60’s typical sell price is lower than both the Yeti and Yeti X.

    The GV60 also has the crucial feature that almost every USB mic shares: no-latency monitoring through its headphone output. With this, you’ll be able to listen to the microphone input (i.e., your voice, or whatever is being recorded) through the mic’s headphone output in real-time, with no delay. Whether you’re recording yourself, livestreaming, or just on a Zoom meeting, the no-latency monitoring is very helpful.

    And with the front-panel controls, you can conveniently adjust the level of the mic input up or down, control the volume of the headphone output, or hit the mic mute button, which instantly shuts off the mic input and turn the front-panel mic LED from blue (mic on) to red (mic off).

    MSI Immerse GV60 mic shown from the front
    Markkus Rovito

    Four recording pickup patterns

    The remaining front-panel control selects one of the Immerse GV60’s four available pickup patterns, which determine the areas around the mic capsule that diaphragms focus on while recording. MSI lists the four pickup patterns as Stereo, Omnidirectional, Unidirectional (aka cardioid), and Bidirectional (aka Figure 8).

    The Unidirectional/cardioid pattern zeroes in on the front, trails off at the sides, and de-emphasizes the back—commonly used for single-person talking or singing. Omnidirectional takes in sound equally from 360 degrees around the mic and is good for capturing the entire ambiance of a space and every member of a roundtable discussion. The Stereo pattern uses the left and right channels to create a wide audio image and is well-suited to recording instruments or multiple sound sources in front of the mic. Finally, the Bidirectional pattern emphasizes both the front and back of the mic, so it’s ideal for capturing two people sitting across from each other in a conversational crossfire hurricane.

    Like many other USB mics, such as the AKG Ara or the Elgato Wave:3, the GV60 is a very sensitive microphone so if you have it in Unidirectional mode, it will still pick up sounds from all over the room while it emphasizes what’s in front of the mic head. But the specialized pickup patterns perform as advertised and do have their uses. For example, when attempting to record a video chat, my computer had a problem recording the internal audio. So, I put the GV60 into Bidirectional mode so I could record the onscreen audio from speakers behind the mic and my own voice in front of the mic. It turned out to sound quite good, with clear results from both sources.

    The MSI Immerse GV60’s sound

    With its strong lineup of gaming computers, monitors, processors, and peripherals, MSI seems to have introduced a microphone into its product oeuvre as a gaming accessory, but the Immerse GV60 is appropriate for any type of content creator. I tested it primarily for recording sung and spoken vocals, video conferencing, and recording interviews, but also recorded drums and amplified synthesizers. I also compared the results against the aforementioned Yeti, Yeti X, Ara, and Wave:3 microphones, as well as the HyperX QuadCast S USB mic.

    After testing so many USB microphones with similar features and in the same price range, it becomes clear that there isn’t a wide gap separating them in terms of the audio quality that they capture, though there are more subtle leaps in clarity. Similar to the other mics mentioned, the GV60 deftly captures minute details and has a very sensitive input, so it offered a small but noticeable rise in clarity compared to some of its competitors I had on hand. The recording levels can get very hot very fast if you turn up the input too high, however. To avoid treble spikes—and picking up the details you don’t want, like the clacking of your keyboard—it’s very helpful to have that pop filter handy and the GV60’s input volume knob on the front (though you may even find yourself playing with software noise suppressors). Other mics that don’t have that input control but still have very sensitive input levels, like the AKG Ara, can make it more challenging to make sure you’re not overdoing the input levels.

    Also like most USB mics, the GV60 records sources very transparently. It’s a much higher-quality microphone than the built-in mic of a computer or mobile device, but if you’re a musician or content creator who wants a flattering, honeyed, velvety sound out of a microphone, this or any other USB mic is probably not what you want. While higher-priced condenser microphones use expensive tubes and/or transformers to color sounds with positive distortion that’s described as a “warming” or softening effect, USB microphones like the GV60 pack a lot of functionality—like a built-in audio interface that allows real-time monitoring—into a small chassis for a low price, so what you hear is what you get. You’re not buying a signature sound. But, when recording drums in a rehearsal space, I appreciated that detailing. On the other hand, when trying to sing while half-sick and not really hiding that condition, I would have preferred less of a harshly transparent microphone.

    The GV60’s 24-bit/96 kHz maximum audio resolution is in the sweet spot with many newer USB mics, while some older models top out at a slightly lower level, and a few go up to 192 kHz (the AKG Lyra, a podcast favorite, for example). There’s not much audible difference between say 24-bit/48 kHz and 24-bit/96 kHz audio other than a slightly brighter presence in the high-end frequency range. And there’s no reason to dock the GV60 for not extending to 192 kHz, which is not really necessary for anything you’re likely to do with a USB mic.

    MSI Immerse GV60 mic with pop filter on a roof
    Markkus Rovito

    So, who should buy the MSI Immerse GV60?

    When there are so many USB microphones available and there’s such parity between many of them in terms of audio quality, the reasons to choose one model over another can come down to very minute details and/or personal preferences such as aesthetic appearance. The aesthetic viewpoints are obviously subjective. I personally find the Immerse GV60 visual design to be a little generic and less striking than many other options in the field. However, given that its audio results compare very evenly to some of the best USB mics, like the Yeti X and the Wave:3, yet it’s priced lower than both, the GV60 offers value. If you add in that its audio resolution is as high as you’ll need and its generous front panel controls and four pickup patterns are quite handy, this is a well-rounded USB microphone. If you’re a gamer that may also record or a podcaster that also games, the MSI Immerse GV60 is a solid streaming microphone for improving audio quality at an attractive price.

    The post MSI Immerse GV60 microphone review: Game on for audio recording appeared first on Popular Science.

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    Why it’s worth carrying more than one gadget https://www.popsci.com/why-you-should-carry-multiple-gadgets/ Tue, 09 Apr 2019 10:20:37 +0000 https://www.popsci.com/uncategorized/why-you-should-carry-multiple-gadgets/
    A person sitting outside during the summer, with their feet up on a metal fence, reading a book on an e-reader.
    Maybe it's a little easier for you to kick back and relax with an e-reader instead of a phone. Perfecto Capucine / Unsplash

    Your phone can do everything... but should it?

    The post Why it’s worth carrying more than one gadget appeared first on Popular Science.

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    A person sitting outside during the summer, with their feet up on a metal fence, reading a book on an e-reader.
    Maybe it's a little easier for you to kick back and relax with an e-reader instead of a phone. Perfecto Capucine / Unsplash

    We may earn revenue from the products available on this page and participate in affiliate programs. Learn more ›

    This story has been updated. It was originally published on May 16, 2019.

    The rise of the smartphone has cut down the number of gadgets we need to carry with us. Most people see no reason to weigh themselves down with gear when one device can be a camera, audio recorder, e-reader, digital music player, document scanner, and much more.

    This versatility means less stuff in our pockets and bags, but there’s a case to be made for not using your phone for everything—at least not all the time.

    Digital cameras can snap better photos

    A digital camera hanging around the neck of a person wearing a red shirt.
    An actual digital camera can get you better shots and at least help you look like you know what you’re doing. Mario Calvo / Unsplash

    Smartphones have undoubtedly revolutionized photography. With cameras in nearly everyone’s hands, we’re now documenting and sharing much more of our lives than ever before. From social media to breaking news, phone photography has changed the game.

    It’s fair to say phones have eaten up the cheap compact camera market, but the jump in quality from a phone to a pro-level DSLR camera is still a significant one, even as mobile cameras continue to get better.

    Control over lenses, particularly zoom levels, is a big factor. Even with top smartphones now finding ways to offer 5x optical zoom, an actual camera can go way, way beyond that and get you much closer to the action.

    Tweaking the amount of light that hits a camera’s sensors is also crucial for getting the best shots, and DSLRs simply give you more control and more options. Most phones don’t offer much in the way of controlling aperture, light sensitivity (ISO), and shutter speed settings, so users can’t easily customize how much light reaches the lens.

    For fast-moving action, detailed close-ups, or really low-light situations (especially when a flash is necessary), it’s still worth carrying a standalone digital camera and a lens or two. You’ll find you generally get better shots and can capture them more easily, too.

    E-readers can help you read more comfortably

    A person in a hammock outside, reading an e-book on a Kindle.
    Break out an e-reader if you’re hoping to hang out in a hammock, free from bothersome notifications. Perfecto Capucine / Unsplash

    Smartphones function perfectly well as e-readers—there’s even an official Kindle app for iOS and Android that lets you do without an actual Kindle entirely. Both Apple and Google make dedicated e-book apps for their platforms too.

    So why bother packing a separate e-reader into your backpack or suitcase? A few arguments can be made for it, not least that the e-ink screen of a Kindle or similar device is much easier on the eyes than the bright display of a phone.

    As well as mitigating eye fatigue, dedicated e-readers last much longer between battery charges. Amazon’s most basic Kindle ($90 on Amazon) stays juiced for around four weeks, according to the manufacturer, so you don’t have to worry if you forget to pack its charger.

    [Related: How to efficiently charge your devices]

    E-readers also have the benefit of doing just one job, so your reading won’t be interrupted by WhatsApp notifications or incoming emails. When you want to unwind on vacation or simply concentrate during a lunch break, that’s a bonus.

    Phones are still good for short bursts of reading, of course—and the aforementioned Kindle apps will sync reading positions with a dedicated e-reader—but for serious digital reading it might be better to use a separate device.

    Digital music players can keep you immersed in sound

    iPods in the Apple Museum.
    There’s a case to be made that iPods and their ilk don’t just belong in a museum. AlenaKr / Depositphotos

    Remember, the iPod was Apple’s first breakthrough portable gadget before the iPhone came along and scooped up all its sales.

    Today, the main reasons you would want to pack a separate digital music player are similar to the arguments for using an e-reader: you’ll be able to listen to your tunes without distractions, and it will give you more battery life while saving your phone’s power cell.

    Another factor is portability. Something like the Mighty music player ($120 on Amazon) can sync your Spotify playlists for offline listening and is small enough to strap on your arm or keep around your neck—perfect for that early morning run.

    Apple discontinued the iPod Touch earlier this year, but is still offering support and selling them while supplies last. It works with Apple Music, Spotify, and every other music app on iOS, while offering access to a whole host of other apps and games as well.

    If you need something cheap and compact that’s not going to light up every five minutes with a new messaging alert, or run out of battery in half a day, a dedicated music player still has appeal, particularly for runners, cyclists, and frequent travelers.

    Smartwatches are a little more portable

    A man's arm resting on a wooden table, with a smartwatch on his wrist.
    Smartwatches keep much of what you need at your fingertips. Luke Chesser / Unsplash

    Plenty of us rely on our phones to tell the time and, probably, to wake us up in the morning. If you think about it, though, there’s a compelling argument for using a smartwatch, or even a regular watch, to do the job instead.

    For a start, it saves you from having to fish around in your pocket or bag (and then getting distracted by 100 Instagram notifications) every time you just want to know what time it is.

    [Related: Trying to use your smartphone less? Get a smartwatch.]

    When it comes to exercising, a smartwatch also gives you access to apps like maps and calls, right from your wrist. Alternatively, a smartwatch will let you leave your phone at home, but still take your music with you.

    For the outdoor adventurer, higher-end smartwatches can provide accurate directions to and from your destination long after your phone’s battery has died. And once it’s time to hit the hay, smartwatches can track your sleep without being intrusive, too.

    So, a smartwatch can be a useful extension of, and in some cases, a complete replacement for, a smartphone. You’ve got plenty to pick from as well, including the Apple Watch Series 7 ($400 and up from Apple), and the Garmin Instinct ($175 from Amazon).

    Digital radios keep the party going, but don’t drain your phone

    A person reclining in a white room with a portable radio by their feet.
    You don’t have to get a radio this big, but maybe you want that retro look. Eric Nopanen / Unsplash

    You might be used to streaming radio stations through your phone, but a pocket digital radio might be worth taking along in some situations.

    First up: battery life. These small radios will last for hours between charges, so your smartphone can take a breather or spend its precious battery on other tasks.

    Second: data usage. Even if you’re on a generous cellular plan, you’re going to be using a big chunk of data trying to stream radio stations to your phone. That won’t happen with a dedicated radio, and you’re more likely to get a signal in crowded spots, too.

    If you want to crank out the tunes at a beach or picnic without using your phone’s data or battery, you can spring for a bigger portable radio. Sure, it’ll mean more bulk when you’re packing, but it might be worth the extra weight.

    With good-quality models costing as little as $35 on Amazon and offering Bluetooth connectivity and memory card support (for your MP3s), radios are worth considering as complements to your phone.

    Portable gaming systems let you play on the go

    A person playing with a Nintendo Switch over a white marble countertop during the day.
    Portable gaming systems like the Nintendo Switch can provide that console gaming feeling no matter where you are. Corey Motta / Unsplash

    Another type of gadget smartphones have nearly killed off is the portable gaming console, because a phone with a huge selection of games is, effectively, the same thing.

    Some portable systems live on, though, and they’re worth taking with you. Most notably, there’s the Nintendo Switch ($300 on Amazon), which gives you a bigger screen and better graphics than a smartphone can offer, and plugs right into your TV when you get home.

    Unlike your phone, the Switch has its own controllers, and can offer a better overall gaming experience. As mentioned during the discussion of other gadgets on this list, it will also save you from draining your phone’s battery while gaming.

    The explosion of smartphone use has largely scared manufacturers away from portable gaming devices, but older systems like the Sony PlayStation Vita ($285 and up on Amazon) and Nintendo 3DS ($300 and up on Amazon) are still around and worth considering.

    Even so, it’s really the Nintendo Switch that’s currently carrying the torch for portable gaming systems. Fans of gaming on the go can only hope its popularity is enough to prompt the development of a few more gadgets just like it.

    The post Why it’s worth carrying more than one gadget appeared first on Popular Science.

    Articles may contain affiliate links which enable us to share in the revenue of any purchases made.

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