Even though the Magic Keyboard is svelte and compliments your Apple computer perfectly, it might not be the best typing experience.

See, there’s a reason that heavy typists prefer mechanical keyboards.

Well, there are several reasons, but the main one is that typing on a mechanical keyboard gives you more feedback when you press the keys.

Over time, that translates into fewer missed keystrokes, fewer corrections, and more productivity.

Since you bought your Mac for productivity reasons, shouldn’t your peripherals do the same?

So, what’s the best mechanical keyboard to get for your Mac?

Short answer: Any, but you’ll want to ensure it supports all the Mac-specific modifier keys

While shopping for a mechanical keyboard for your Mac, you’ll want to ensure it supports all the Mac-specific keys.

The main ones you need are the two Cmd keys and the Alt/Option ones found where the Alt and Windows keys are found on most other keyboards.

While you can usually remap these to work on your Mac, buying a keyboard that has them supported out of the box is simpler.

Our current favorite is the Das Keyboard 4 Professional for Mac, which has a choice of key switches and dedicated media controls.

Das Keyboard 4 Professional for Mac

$179.00

The Das 4 Professional mechanical keyboard for Mac is a full-sized mechanical keyboard with Mac-specific key legends and a choice of mechanical switches to find the typing feel you prefer. It's also got dedicated media keys because your Mac isn't for work all of the time.

What We Like:

• Awesome dedicated media controls including oversized knob for volume changing
• Extremely comfortable typing position and feel

Check Availability

KnowTechie is supported by its audience, so if you buy something through our links, we may get a small share of the sale.

01/26/2024 09:17 am GMT

What do you think? Interested in switching to a mechanical keyboard for your Mac? Let us know down below in the comments or carry the discussion over to our Twitter or Facebook.

Editors’ Recommendations:

• How to connect a mechanical keyboard to your iPad
• What are the typical sizes of mechanical keyboards?
• How to tell if your keyboard is mechanical?
• How are mechanical keyboards different from membrane keyboards?

Just a heads up, if you buy something through our links, we may get a small share of the sale. It’s one of the ways we keep the lights on here. Click here for more.

The post What is the best mechanical keyboard for Mac? appeared first on KnowTechie.

Most reviews rightfully hone in on the MG-1’s capability as a gaming PC for hardcore gamers. It was even designed in collaboration with Shroud, a gaming streamer.

But I’m not a hardcore PC gamer. Outside of taking a few minutes to continue building my Minecraft kingdom, I only play a few PC games that would genuinely test a system.

That isn’t to say Minecraft itself doesn’t already crash my current GPU because it does.

Really, any time I engage my current PC in any sort of multiple video exercise across three monitors, it’s very likely to crash. Or at least blink out for a bit.

But that’s not the point, the point is that I use a gaming PC for its raw processing power, rather than gaming, because of what I do for a living.

Editor's Choice

Maingear MG-1 Platinum Gaming PC

4.5

$1,799

The MG-1 is a range of gaming PCs designed in collaboration with shroud, one of the best competitive gamers around.

What We Like:

• Powerful Nvidia GeForce RTX 4070 graphics card
• 280mm AIO liquid cooler to keep the Intel i5-14600K cool under pressure
• Stylish case with removable, customizable, magnetic front panel

Check Availability

KnowTechie is supported by its audience, so if you buy something through our links, we may get a small share of the sale.

The secret of my success

My entire career (outside of being Kevin’s thunder buddy on the internet) consists of massaging, manipulating, and manhandling large sets of data.

Basically, I spend a lot of time in Microsoft Excel creating formulas that pressure my processors like knuckling a perineum, and work-issued PCs can’t handle those calculations. So, I turn to gaming machines.

I’ve used at least one Maingear PC for work, the Maingear Potenza. I convinced an employer to purchase it for me, since the department-issued laptop was about as competent as slicing cold pastrami with a spoon.

Most recently I built my own gaming-ish PC, the one that crashes all the time because the motherboard is too small and the GPU is OK.

But it has good RAM and only stutters a bit when calculating rows and rows of Index formulas in Excel. But it’s not good enough. It could be better.

And the MG-1 Platinum is much, much better.

Let’s get into what these formulas look like, the computing load involved and how the MG-1 took these formulas, smacked them around a bit, and sent them straight back to the abyss from whence they came.

Bright lights, big city

This is what an Index formula looks like (well, one iteration at least):

{=IFERROR(INDEX(Pivots!$AJ:$AJ,SMALL(IF(Pivots!$AI:$AI=$D11,ROW(Pivots!$AI:$AI)-ROW(INDEX(Pivots!$AI:$AI,1,1))+1),AA$8)),””)}

In the Excel workbook I pulled that from, a workbook I utilize almost every day, this type of formula occupies 40 columns by X rows (based on variable lookup data sets).

It’s accompanied by 37 more columns of simple VLOOKUP formulas, but those take little computing power below 50K rows.

Anything under 200 rows of calculations takes my current PC 2-3 minutes to complete. If I press it to around 500 rows, I have to play games on my phone while waiting.

If I press it to 1000 rows, I have to upload it to Google Sheets and make Google do the calculations because my PC can’t handle it.

So I copied this workbook to the Maingear MG-1, pasted in 2,136 rows of lookup data in the lookup column, and pressed F9.

Go big or go home; no sense in testing the smaller sets that my PC can already handle. Let’s go downtown and see what the MG-1 can do.

While that’s calculating 85,440 Index formulas and 79,032 VLOOKUPs at the same time, let’s run down the MG-1 Platinum’s stats:

Ok, back to the calcs. Well, they took a while. I made a bagel, I ate the bagel, and I watched some YouTube videos. But most importantly, the MG-1 handled it.

It didn’t lock up; it allowed me to do other things while the 20 threads were calculating, and I eventually got it done.

That’s crucial for me to be able to watch reruns of 30 Rock while my PC is running calcs. I don’t want the entire thing to lock up on Liz making a weird face, and hear audio in broken snippets.

I want to be able to do other things while the calcs are running. The MG-1 Platinum makes that multitasking (or ADHD soothing) possible. I can actually type an email while it’s calculating.

The hard way

Yeah, I could use Microsoft 365 and do all this calculating online, but I prefer to control data locally, rather than in the cloud. Cloud services always react different to hot keys, formulas, and VB scripting.

Basically, I need Excel on my PC in order to competently complete my tasks the to the best of my ability. Some might find this overtly complex, but to me, it’s easier than screaming at Google Sheets because I can’t use CTRL-D.

There are probably some other pressure tests out there that would test the computing power of the MG-1 Platinum, like video rendering or CAD engineering, but I don’t do those things.

But considering that it didn’t require me to take a nap while data was processing, that’s a huge win.

Evaluating a gaming PC is tricky, even if you specialize in benchmarking performance factors as it pertains to gaming.

These PCs have a wide audience, mostly people who either think they need a gaming PC or don’t actually need a gaming PC but want one for the clout.

I found out a long time ago that attempting to use the shit laptops and desktops provided by my employer to perform my job functions only resulted in stress and frustration.

Whether it’s because of the way I perform my tasks, or their inability to heed me when I demand more powerful computers, gaming PCs have been the answer.

And more often than not over the past two decades, those have been Maingear PCs.

The point is that we’re generally advertised gaming PCs as being the optimal machines for gaming, and they are. But they are just as competent work machines as well.

I can’t imagine being able to do my job, as it stands now, with some dusty Dell workstation that struggles to formulate anything beyond a simple SUM formula.

Maingear is currently running a holiday sale, and the MG-1 Platinum edition is on sale for $1,649.

This is the mid-tier offering of the MG-1 line, and a solid purchase if you don’t want to spend too much on a gaming PC, but don’t want the bottom of the product line either.

If you have any sort of job that requires your computer to think as hard as you pretend to, then a Maingear PC might be the thing that elevates you from cubicle drone to fluorescent formulaic god.

Editor's Choice

Maingear MG-1 Platinum Gaming PC

4.5

$1,799

The MG-1 is a range of gaming PCs designed in collaboration with shroud, one of the best competitive gamers around.

Check Availability

KnowTechie is supported by its audience, so if you buy something through our links, we may get a small share of the sale.

Have any thoughts on this? Drop us a line below in the comments, or carry the discussion to our Twitter or Facebook.

Editors’ Recommendations:

• Review: Nothing Phone (2)
• The best smart thermostats
• Review: Edifier QD35 Tabletop Bluetooth Speaker
• Is your laptop screen cooking your eyeballs? Ocushield is the answer

The post Evaluating the Excel-lent Maingear MG-1 Platinum appeared first on KnowTechie.

GEEKOM AS6 Mini PC

4.5

The GEEKOM AS 6 is a compact Mini PC, powered by AMD Ryzen 9. It offers robust performance with its Radeon Graphics 680M and DDR5 memory. With support for up to four 4K displays, 8K resolution, and advanced connectivity options, it's a versatile choice for productivity tasks.

Pros:

• Great hardware
• Solid design
• Very compact
• Value for money

Cons:

• Plastic body
• Fan gets noisy under load

Check Availability at Amazon Check Availability at Geekom

KnowTechie is supported by its audience, so if you buy something through our links, we may get a small share of the sale.

I remember wanting to have a huge computer when I was a kid. I built a full-size PC for myself last year, but it has become increasingly clear that that’s not the only way to own a powerful PC.

Mini PCs aren’t a new phenomenon, but they’re having their moment in the sun. We’ve seen many iterations of mini PCs, but with CPU manufacturing processes shrinking, the technology is more advanced than ever.

Enter the GEEKOM AS6. It’s a mini PC that the company has made in partnership with ASUS, and on paper, it covers all the basics you would expect from a home computer and more. 

Starting at $649, the GEEKOM AS6 is one of the best mini PCs you can buy right now, with three CPU options: Ryzen 7 6800H, 7735H, and Ryzen 9 6900HX, all with 32GB of RAM and 1TB SSD as standard. 

We tested the Ryzen 9 6900HX variant that comes in at $739 for three months. Here’s how it performed.

Specifications of the GEEKOM AS6

Design and ports

Mini PCs are a marvel of modern engineering, and the GEEKOM AS6 is exceptionally well-built. It’s impressive how much power this little brick packs in.

On first look, you’ll see the relatively muted and understated design of the AS6. It’s not trying to reinvent the wheel with the design here; instead, it blends in well. I tested it hooked up to my TV, and it never once felt out of place.

The thermal design of this mini PC is also impressive. I did try to push the AS6 to its limits during my testing, and it stayed relatively cool and quiet. The fan did get quite audible under load.

GEEKOM claims it has an Anti-Dust Self-Cleaning System, which I can vouch for. My TV unit area is particularly dusty, which is made apparent to me by my Xbox Series X, which needs a thorough dusting now and then.

However, the GEEKOM AS6 was sitting next to the Xbox for three months and didn’t seem to trap much of the dust in the internals. It was good to go, good as new, after just a moderate cleaning. Impressive for any PC, really!

The port selection is also decent here. There are USB4 ports on board, one in the front and one at the back, and two USB 3.2 Gen 1 ports at the front and three at the back. 

You also get two HDMI 2.1 ports, a DisplayPort 1.4 port, 2.5G ethernet, an audio jack, and a DC-in for charging. Kensington Lock and Padlock rings are also provided.

The AS6 comes with an external power brick, which is some added bulk, but it’s a regular-sized power brick, which isn’t very hefty and will be easy to blend in with your setup with some cable management.

My only complaint would be the lack of a metal build. The plastic build feels sturdy, but a metal one would have made this mini PC feel even more premium.

GEEKOM AS6 Performance: Amazing power for the form factor

The performance is on par with what you would expect from the hardware. During my testing, I used this as a home entertainment PC. That meant a fair bit of web browsing, video playback, and a bunch of gaming.

While mini PCs aren’t typically geared for gaming, this machine’s Radeon 680M GPU makes it a rather impressive little gaming machine.

I tried CS: GO and Fortnite on this PC, as well as some retro titles using emulators, and I can confirm that the GEEKOM AS6 is a fantastic gaming machine, especially for the living room.

The AS6 handled everything I threw at it. It’s pretty powerful for something that is this compact. I also ran some synthetic benchmarks to get the numbers on how this thing performs.

I tested the CPU performance using Cinebench R23.

The overall performance was tested with PC Mark 10, and GPU performance was tested with 3D Mark, both of which were made available by UL Solutions.

I also tested the storage speeds with CrystalDiskMark.

Another great thing about the GEEKOM AS6 is its upgradability. The mini PC is effortless to disassemble. You get upgradable DDR5 RAM (or DDR4 on some models), a PCIe Gen 4 NVMe SSD, and a spare NVMe and 2.5-inch SATA slot.

The bundled kit is enough for most folks, but having upgradability on top of that means that this little PC should benefit from a performance boost mid-life, should you want to increase its longevity even further.

You also get Wi-Fi 6E and Bluetooth 5.2, so this machine’s future-proofing is pretty solid.

Alternative options to consider

Intel NUC 12 Pro (Wall Street Canyon) Mini PC	GEEKOM Mini PC Mini IT13	2023 Apple Mac Mini (M2)
3.5	4.6	3.5
$809.00	$889	$777.33
Check Availability	See at Amazon	Check Availability

Intel NUC 12 Pro (Wall Street Canyon) Mini PC

3.5

$809.00

Check Availability

GEEKOM Mini PC Mini IT13

4.6

$889

See at Amazon

2023 Apple Mac Mini (M2)

3.5

$777.33

Check Availability

01/25/2024 08:10 pm GMT

Should you buy the GEEKOM AS6 mini PC?

It’s an easy one to recommend. The GEEKOM AS6 is a very refined product, and the combined expertise of ASUS and GEEKOM is very apparent here.

The GEEKOM AS6 impresses with its hardware, the performance, especially respective to size, and its ability to be tucked away and keep going without making much of a fuss.

It’s a great mini PC you can hook up and forget about. It handles all kinds of workloads better than you would expect it to.

The GEEKOM AS6 is also an excellent value for money. You have alternative options available, but if you’re looking at mini PCs that don’t come from Apple, the AS6 is the way to go.

The Ryzen 9 6900HX version we tested is the configuration to go for, although GEEKOM has also made the newer Ryzen 7 7735H available.

While the MSRP of the 6900HX version is $1009, it seems to be on permanent discount, available at $739 most of the time. It goes even lower during specific promotional periods, so stay tuned to us for those deals when they happen.

GEEKOM AS6 Mini PC

4.5

The GEEKOM AS6 is an excellent mini PC, coming in with some great hardware and performance in a compact body, and a price tag that is great for what it offers.

Check Availability at Amazon Check Availability at Geekom

KnowTechie is supported by its audience, so if you buy something through our links, we may get a small share of the sale.

Have any thoughts on this? Drop us a line below in the comments, or carry the discussion to our Twitter or Facebook.

Editors’ Recommendations:

• Review Roundup: PlayStation Portal – brace for buyer’s remorse
• KnowTechie’s best gifts under $25 for your holiday gifting
• GEEKOM’s Mini IT13 PC is small in size but big on power
• Review: Withings Body Comp Scale

The post Review: GEEKOM AS6 Mini PC appeared first on KnowTechie.

Maingear MG-1 Platinum Gaming PC

4.5

$1,799

The MG-1 is a range of gaming PCs designed in collaboration with shroud, one of the best competitive gamers around.

What We Like:

• Powerful Nvidia GeForce RTX 4070 graphics card
• 280mm AIO liquid cooler to keep the Intel i5-14600K cool under pressure
• Stylish case with removable, customizable, magnetic front panel

Check Availability

KnowTechie is supported by its audience, so if you buy something through our links, we may get a small share of the sale.

When you’ve been reviewing consumer tech products for nearly two decades, a bit of malaise tends to creep in. There’s only so many words to write about Bluetooth speakers, headphones, and toasters.

But when Maingear reaches out and asks if you want to take a gander at its new gaming PC, you say abso-freaking-lutely.

Which brings us to the Maingear MG-1 Platinum, the third variant in Maingear’s MG-1 product line. The flavor list for the MG-1 goes Silver ($1,149), Gold ($1,299), Platinum ($1,799), Diamond ($2,299), Legendary ($3,299), and Ultimate ($4,299).

The MG-1 was developed in partnership with Shroud, a professional Counter-Strike player turned YouTuber. The Ultimate version is a direct copy of his personal rig.

The Platinum version I received is a mid-tier option, but the specs are still pretty good:

As soon as I received the PC, Maingear reached out to see if I wanted a replacement, as it just implemented Intel’s 14th-generation processor into these PCs without adjusting the price.

I passed, not wanting to deal with shipping at this point and content to mention the upgrade in the previous sentence (and the specs, but know that I received the last version with a 12th-gen CPU with fewer cores).

The Maingear MG-1 is pretty sweet

I’ve reviewed a few Maingear PCs over the years, most notably the Shift, R2 Razer, Potenza, and Spark, and along with the MG-1, there is uniqueness in design.

Its physical form has enough surprises that sets it apart from standard PCs, gaming or otherwise.

For the MG-1, that’s a multitude of internal fans, lit up with RGB color around glowing memory cards and a liquid cooling system. Tack on an interchangeable, customizable face, and you’ve got a PC tower that deviates from the norm.

So visually stunning, check and check. While a minor aesthetic, the RGB lighting adds a nice dimension to the overall feel of the machine.

There’s even a light cycle on the processor housing, reminding you that not only is this a Maingear PC, but the liquid cooling keeps the processor cool enough to allow for additional, albeit low-wattage, lighting on top of it.

And you can’t miss the NVIDIA GeForce RTX 4070, a massive chunk of GPU power dominating the motherboard. And there appears to be a slot for an additional GPU or other add-in cards like a capture card.

Even if you were to slot another one in, there’s plenty of extra space for hard drives or whatever else you store inside a PC tower, like snacks or rare baseball cards.

Turn it on already

As we powered the MG-1 Platinum and began the Windows 11 setup, the power-gaming 15-year-old in the house exclaimed, “this thing might be able to run Star Citizen!” [Ed’s note: Is that ever going to be released?]

That’s TBD as he doesn’t have enough money in his allowance account to purchase it, but within moments, he had Steam downloaded, along with the Opera browser, and was grinding away in Barotrauma.

We don’t do benchmarking in this house, but there have been nothing but smooth returns on gameplay.

The thing is, this PC is damn quiet. I’ve never met a PC with six (yes, six) internal fans that ran so freaking quietly. My work PC has three fans, and only a constant stream of ’70s music keeps the whirring at bay.

Not to mention that strange noise my GPU makes every time I utilize a third monitor. But that’s a story for another day. The point is, if you couldn’t see the glow of the RGB around the fans, you wouldn’t know this PC was on and running.

While this might seem like some minor detail, it’s important in creating a sense of awe when booting up a PC like this for the first time — it’s not flooded with bloatware.

I’ve found that’s a Maingear standard, that even with Windows 11, it doesn’t come packed with the bullshit you’d find floating around the screen when you purchase a PC from Best Buy or some other retailer.

That feels good, when you aren’t hit with an immediate annoyance and you can just get to the games.

Do you even game bro?

Actually, no, at least not on PC. I began gaming at a time when the best PC had to offer was Kings Quest and Ultima IV. So, console (Atari, Nintendo) was the most available option.

Naturally, there were opportunities to transfer my skills from console to PC, but it has yet to happen. I was never a Counter-Strike LAN party kid. I have Steam on my current PC and sometimes play Roller Coaster Tycoon.

The Maingear MG-1 Platinum is a gaming PC. It’s optimized for gaming. On Ultra/4K settings, you’ll get well over 130 fps on most games and even higher on medium settings. Those are gaming specs.

While I will use it for business (stay tuned for an Excel-themed review), it has no problem playing most AAA titles at engrossing specs. Get a good monitor; there’s no sense in using this thing on some rusty 19-inch Dell you found in the gutter.

Any of the six versions of this PC makes for a solid gaming PC lacking the memory-sucking bloatware that bogs down many retail-specific gaming PCs.

Even with it running Windows 11, we found immediate performance speedy and unhampered by nonsense.

While we’re yet to download Star Citizen, there is hope that it’ll run within moderate parameters on the MG-1. The liquid cooling adds confidence to that assessment, but the six fans pointed at the GPU brings it up a notch.

Stay tuned for more

I’m not done with this PC. Today was turning it on and seeing all the pretty colors as it silently whirred into existence. Downloading Steam and Opera only does a little to test the capabilities of the MG-1.

It’s like going for a hike with some new hiking boots, but all you’ve done is put on socks. There’s more to discover here, mainly how it handles my Index(match) formulas, but that’s an article for another day.

The Maingear MG-1 is worth a look if you are in the market for a new gaming PC. Of all the Maingear PCs I’ve encountered over the years, it checks all the boxes regarding internal specs and form factor.

The pricing is relative to not only the included parts but also the care and time spent ensuring each PC shipped meets the highest construction and testing standards.

Maingear doesn’t just pump out blocky PCs meant for Walmart shelves; it gives a crap about the PCs it constructs, which is highly evident with the glowing RGB perfection of the MG-1 Platinum.

Maingear MG-1 Platinum Gaming PC

4.5

$1,799

The MG-1 is a range of gaming PCs designed in collaboration with shroud, one of the best competitive gamers around.

Check Availability

KnowTechie is supported by its audience, so if you buy something through our links, we may get a small share of the sale.

Editors Recommendations:

• Netflix expands game streaming beta to the United States
• Spider-Man 2 becomes fastest-selling PlayStation game ever
• Apple sends out press event invites for night before Halloween
• Nothing Phone 2 is now available on Amazon at $699 in the US

Just a heads up, if you buy something through our links, we may get a small share of the sale. It’s one of the ways we keep the lights on here. Click here for more.

The post Maingear MG-1 Platinum–first impressions appeared first on KnowTechie.

ROCCAT Vulcan II Mini Air Optical Mechanical Keyboard

4.5

$179.99 $139.99

Quick Verdict: The ROCCAT Vulcan II Mini Air Keyboard sets out to be a perfect, on-the-go keyboard for gamers looking to play while they travel and excels in everything it sets out to be.

Pros:

• Full RGB lighting that adapts to help battery life
• Feels like a full-size keyboard when in use
• Mechanical keys feel identical to the normal wired version of the keyboard

Cons:

• Keycaps are removable, which can make being in a bag difficult
• Everything, including the Bluetooth switcher, is built into the keyboard keys, which can get confusing at times
• No number pad

Check Availability Check Availability at ROCCAT

KnowTechie is supported by its audience, so if you buy something through our links, we may get a small share of the sale.

01/25/2024 01:46 pm GMT

Sitting on a desk, you likely want a full-sized keyboard like the ROCCAT Vulcan II. But keyboards can get so bulky and cumbersome when you’re on the go.

The problem is that some people want the same conveniences and feel as their regular keyboard when traveling, but most travel-capable keyboards are bland and simplistic. 

The Vulcan II Mini Air sets out to be a keyboard that feels at home both on the road and at a desk.

While the ideal user of this keyboard is likely traveling and gaming from hotels, they also don’t want to worry about swapping back and forth when using their laptop at home.

If you need a comfortable, gaming-capable, small, travel-worthy keyboard, you’re in for a real treat.

ROCCAT Vulcan II Mini Air Keyboard Features and Specifications

ROCCAT Vulcan II Mini Air Technical details

Design and layout

The great thing about the Vulcan II Mini Air is that it’s designed like a standard keyboard in everything except its size. If you’re a mechanical gaming keyboard fan, it will feel comfy.

I have some pretty big, clumsy sausage fingers, personally. So, when I started typing on this keyboard, it was like butter. 

They didn’t shrink the mechanical keys for the smaller form factor. Instead, they trimmed the bigger model.

As such, the keyboard offers RGB colors for the keyboard, just like its bigger sibling. It provides the usual AIMO intelligent lighting and other options like wave or ripple.

One unusual but welcome detail is that the back feet of Vulcan II Mini Air offer two additional heights, aside from being flat on your desktop.

The Vulcan II Mini Air axes the numpad to get to its smaller size. While some people may need it if they’re using it for work or calculations, dropping it off the smaller keyboard meant it gets a much more slim form factor.

Since this is a mechanical keyboard, you also can choose between linear (red) and tactile (brown) options.

While the key switches use Cherry MX-compatible stems, the design is incompatible with other companies’ keycaps.

Also of note is that the keyboard comes in black and white color options. The keyboard I’m reviewing here is the black model, but the white one looks pretty slick, too.

Compatibility

The great thing about any Bluetooth keyboard is that they’re pretty versatile. Sure, it’s designed for gaming on a computer, but that’s not all it can do.

Since this can plug directly into a USB port for a PC with the dongle, it’s worth using it if you have a free slot. But what about devices that don’t have USB functionality?

The Vulcan II Mini Air works like a charm on our iPad and the small, crappy laptop. It also connects to my phone quickly and types.

While not entirely unheard of, a mechanical keyboard that efficiently works with a phone or tablet and travels well is a big deal you rarely see.

As mentioned, the keyboard is built for gaming. Like most gaming keyboards, it has a gaming mode that will turn off your Windows button.

Battery

The ROCCAT Vulcan II Mini Air keyboard has several battery-preservation and consumption modes. It also has proximity sensors, which dim the RGB lighting when you’re not poised to type.

It has three modes: work, work & play, and holiday.

The work mode turns off the RGB lights entirely. This hikes the battery life for up to 750 hours, which is fantastic for those not looking for anything fancy while they type for work or school.

The average user is more likely to use the Vulcan II Mini Air in work & play mode, which has the LEDs at a lower brightness. This gives about 150 hours of battery life.

The holiday mode goes full-tilt with the RGB lighting. If you want glow on your face, this is the mode for you. But, it significantly drops the battery life to only 90 hours.

There are two additional modes that you can toggle on and off from the ROCCAT Swarm application. Those are Standby and Sleep, both of which turn the RGB lighting off after a set period.

Since the ROCCAT Vulcan II Mini Air has such a good battery life as it is, I let it sit overnight without any charging cable plugged in, but on. It dropped it from 100% to 95%.

After plugging it in the next day, it returned to 100% in 15 minutes. I’m impressed, honestly, as my other Bluetooth-capable Logitech K780 keyboard uses AA batteries, and I dread the day I have to replace them.

Comfort and weight

The ROCCAT Vulcan II Mini Air is 65% the size of a full-sized mechanical keyboard. This gives users a lot of flexibility in terms of weight, depending on their needs.

While most people will use this keyboard on a table or desk to type, it feels great on a leg for those who don’t have a stable surface.

As for weight, this keyboard tops the scales at 620g (or 21.87 oz), with the cable and dongle attached. That’s great for portability as you will be able to carry it around all day.

ROCCAT Swarm

ROCCAT Swarm offers a ton of customization for the Vulcan line of keyboards. You can control the RGB lighting, sound feedback, and character repeat settings. It also gives complete key assignments, including ROCCAT’s Easy-Shift+ functions. 

You also get more functions to do with wireless connectivity. Not only does it show the battery status and offer notifications for the battery, but it also includes the toggles for the standby and sleep modes. 

The proximity sensor used for the battery-saving modes can be adjusted and turned on and off from here.

Firmware is handled directly through the Swarm program. It’s as simple as just plugging in the keyboard, then you go through a couple of clicks, and it’s generally done in moments, if not seconds.

One thing to note is that ROCCAT Swarm can only find the Vulcan II Mini Air when plugged in via a USB-A to USB-C cable.

That means you need to plug in to change any settings or update firmware, but once changed, the keyboard will remember its settings when used wirelessly.

Alternatives

For gamers	Multi-device compability	For numpad users
Razer DeathStalker V2 Pro	Logitech K780 Multi-Device Wireless Keyboard	ROCCAT Vulcan II Max Mechanical Gaming Keyboard
3.5	3.5	3.5
$249.99	$75.99$69.99	$224.25
Check Availability	Check Availability	Check Availability

For gamers

Razer DeathStalker V2 Pro

3.5

$249.99

Check Availability

Multi-device compability

Logitech K780 Multi-Device Wireless Keyboard

3.5

$75.99$69.99

Check Availability

For numpad users

ROCCAT Vulcan II Max Mechanical Gaming Keyboard

3.5

$224.25

Check Availability

01/25/2024 09:31 am GMT

Final Verdict

I’m not going to lie: I had trouble finding anything I disliked about this keyboard.

I will mention that the keys can come off easily in a backpack. That’s true for any keyboard, but it’s easier on these switches due to their design.

The ROCCAT Vulcan II Mini Air sets out to do a specific thing, and it does it so well that it’d be hard to top.

This keyboard is perfect for travel and desk use, with Bluetooth and 2.4GHz wireless options, full RGB lighting, full-size mechanical keys, high battery life, and a compact, lightweight design.

I pair this keyboard with my  ROCCAT Kone Air, which I also reviewed recently, for my travel laptop, and they work together like a charm.

I have nothing bad to say about this fantastic keyboard. If you need a small, long-lasting keyboard that works for gaming and has pretty lights, buy this.

You can pick up the ROCCAT Vulcan II Mini Air Optical Mechanical Keyboard from ROCCAT, Amazon, Best Buy, and other big retailers.

ROCCAT Vulcan II Mini Air Optical Mechanical Keyboard

4.5

$179.99 $139.99

The ROCCAT Vulcan II Air Mini Optical Mechanical Keyboard is a wireless 65% form-factor keyboard with a big focus on gaming. It uses Titan II optical switches for ultra-fast actuation in either linear or tactile versions, and Easy-Shift+ for quick access to a second function layer.

Check Availability Check Availability at ROCCAT

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01/25/2024 01:46 pm GMT

Editors Recommendations:

• Review: Roccat Kone Air Mouse
• Review Roundup: Google Pixel 8 and Pixel 8 Pro
• Review: Turtle Beach Stealth Pro Headset
• Review: TCL Q7 65-inch QLED TV

Just a heads up, if you buy something through our links, we may get a small share of the sale. It’s one of the ways we keep the lights on here. Click here for more.

The post Review: ROCCAT Vulcan II Mini Air Mechanical Keyboard appeared first on KnowTechie.

According to Intel, these processors come with boost frequencies of a whopping 6GHz out of the box. 

So, here’s what you need to know about Intel’s latest Raptor Lake Refresh (14th Gen) line of desktop processors.

Intel Core 14th Gen Raptor Lake Refresh performance leap

Starting off is the flagship Intel Core i9-14900K, which is the “fastest desktop processor at volume,” according to the chipmaker, due to the 6GHz boost clock. 

Note that these CPUs still have the Core i branding, which Intel won’t use for its upcoming Meteor Lake refresh.

Intel’s Core i9-14900K comes with the 6GHz Thermal Velocity Boost frequency, previously only seen on the special-edition Core i9-13900KS variant. 

The frequencies have also increased. The P-core max turbo has a clock speed of 5.6GHz, while the E-core max turbo has increased 100MHz. Both base frequencies also received a 200MHz bump.

However, the most interesting processor in the Raptor Lake refresh is probably the Intel Core i7-14700K due to the bump in its efficiency cores. 

This year, Intel has increased the core count on its Core i7 line. The processor now has 12 efficiency cores and eight performance cores rather than eight efficiency and eight performance cores.

So, we are looking at a total of 20 cores on the Intel Core i7-14700K. The number of cores is surprisingly close to 24 cores on the Core i9-14900K. On the 14700K, the base clock on the P-cores is 3.4GHz, while it’s 2.5GHz for the E-core.

It’s the same number we saw on last year’s 13700K. However, increased efficiency cores should help with the overall performance per watt figures.

Lastly, Intel has also refreshed the Core i5. The latest Intel Core i5-14600K features a total of 14 cores (six P-cores and eight E-cores) with a base clock of 3.5GHz on the P-core side and up to a 5.3GHz boost.

Intel 14th-gen Raptor Lake Refresh pricing

Despite the improved performance, Intel is also keeping the same price for its 14th-Gen Core i9, i7, and i5 processors as its 13th Gen prices.

So, the Core i9-14900K will be priced at $589, while it’ll cost $409 to get the Core i7-1700K and $319 for the Core i5-14600K.

Also, all the 14th-Gen processors are compatible with Intel 600- and 700-series motherboards thanks to the LGA 1700 socket. Wi-Fi 7 and Bluetooth 5.4 support are included. These chips will support both DDR5 and DDR4 RAM standards, as well.

Have any thoughts on this? Drop us a line below in the comments, or carry the discussion to our Twitter or Facebook.

Editors’ Recommendations:

• AMD announces its new Ryzen 7000 desktop processor range
• How to build a PC and fail miserably and create a legacy of ruin
• Apple’s M3 Max MacBook Pro will be a performance powerhouse
• Apple’s M3 iMac is reportedly launching later this fall

The post New Intel Core 14th Gen desktop CPUs can clock up to 6GHz appeared first on KnowTechie.

Let’s address the elephant in the room first: the Spectre Fold’s price. At a whopping $5,000, it’s the priciest foldable PC on the block.

For perspective, it’s $1,500 more than the Asus Zenbook Fold 17 and twice as expensive as the Lenovo ThinkPad X1 Fold Gen 2. So, what’s justifying this hefty cost?

HP - Spectre 3-in-1 17" 2.5K OLED Touch-Screen Foldable Laptop

4.0

$4999.99

The HP Spectre Fold is a high-end foldable PC with a 17-inch 2.5K OLED touch display, 12th-gen Intel Core i7 processor, and innovative design features. However, its $5,000 price tag may be a deterrent for some.

Check Availability See at HP

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01/24/2024 01:07 am GMT

Size Matters: Design and Display

HP is betting big on design. The Spectre Fold is touted as the world’s smallest and thinnest 17-inch foldable PC, thanks to its innovative battery distribution that ensures a balanced weight no matter how you use it.

The 17-inch 2.5K (1920 x 2560) resolution OLED touch display is a sight to behold, featuring:

• 3:4 aspect ratio
• 400 nits standard brightness (500 nits in HDR)
• 99.5% DCI-P3
• VESA True Black HDR 500
• TÜV+Eyesafe

It’s also the first foldable screen to snag an Imax Enhanced certification. And don’t worry about durability – HP promises the display meets the same testing standards as its traditional laptops.

Flexibility at Your Fingertips

Versatility is another major selling point for the Spectre Fold. It can:

• Transform from a 12.3-inch laptop to an extended one-and-a-half screen mode (with a slide-down keyboard for an extended view)
• Offer a dual-screen extended mode when the Bluetooth keyboard is removed
• Be used in a desktop or standing tablet style, thanks to a built-in kickstand

Artificial intelligence support also brings features like walk away lock, wake-on approach, auto screen dimming, and privacy alerts.

Under the Hood: Specs and Performance

Powered by a 12th-gen Intel Core i7 processor and Intel Iris Xe graphics, the Spectre Fold packs a punch. It’s backed by 16GB of memory and a 1TB SSD.

The 6-cell, 94.3-watt-hour battery promises 12 hours of power in laptop mode and 11 hours in desktop mode. Plus, it runs on Windows 11.

Connectivity-wise, it offers Wi-Fi 6E and Bluetooth 5.3, a 5-megapixel camera with a privacy switch, and two Thunderbolt 4 ports with a 40Gbps signaling rate.

Ready to shell out $5,000? You can preorder the HP Spectre Fold at BestBuy.com. It will also hit select Best Buy locations and HP.com in limited quantities from October, with a broader rollout planned for later this fall.

HP - Spectre 3-in-1 17" 2.5K OLED Touch-Screen Foldable Laptop

4.0

$4999.99

The HP Spectre Fold is a high-end foldable PC with a 17-inch 2.5K OLED touch display, 12th-gen Intel Core i7 processor, and innovative design features. However, its $5,000 price tag may be a deterrent for some.

What We Like:

• Unparalleled Flexibility: The Spectre Fold can transform from a compact laptop to an extended screen mode, offering a dual-screen experience when the Bluetooth keyboard is removed.
• Premium Display: It's the first foldable screen to receive an Imax Enhanced certification, promising superior visual quality.
• Long Battery Life: Despite its foldable design, HP claims the device can deliver up to 12 hours of power in laptop mode and 11 hours in desktop mode.
• Latest Connectivity Features: With Wi-Fi 6E and Bluetooth 5.3, it ensures fast and reliable connections. It also houses two Thunderbolt 4 ports for high-speed data transfers.

Check Availability See at HP

KnowTechie is supported by its audience, so if you buy something through our links, we may get a small share of the sale.

01/24/2024 01:07 am GMT

Have any thoughts on this? Drop us a line below in the comments, or carry the discussion to our Twitter or Facebook.

Editors’ Recommendations:

• Review: HP Sprocket Studio Plus WiFi Photo Printer
• HP announces Poly Voyager Free 60 Series earbuds for work
• HP announces new Poly Voyager Free 60 Series earbuds for work
• The best HP printers money can buy you right now

Just a heads up, if you buy something through our links, we may get a small share of the sale. It’s one of the ways we keep the lights on here. Click here for more.

The post HP Spectre Fold is the best foldable PC….if you can afford it appeared first on KnowTechie.

Quick Answer: Yes, mechanical keyboards can help increase typing speed and accuracy compared to membrane keyboards. The tactile feedback and actuation force of mechanical switches allow your fingers to move faster and more precisely between keys.

Nowadays, it’s common to see mechanical keyboards on gamers’ desks, with their tactile switches and vibrant RGB lighting.

This type of keyboard is often marketed as enhancing gaming performance, as the mechanical switch design allows for quick, precise keypresses. The responsive, durable keys are built for high-speed action and gameplay requiring split-second reactions.

That’s not all they’re good for, though. I mean, it’s a keyboard, right? Primarily used for typing, not just fragging noobs?

Whether you’re a coder, a writer, or just doing your school homework, the typing experience with a mechanical keyboard is second to none.

So, is it going to improve your typing ability? Will you be able to type faster for typing on a mechanical keyboard?

So, do mechanical keyboards make you type faster?

Short answer: Yes, but not without practice

The thing about mechanical keyboards, for most people, is their tactility.

The additional feedback on your fingertips not only lets you know that you hit the right key but also that you pressed it far enough down to register a keystroke. This feedback loop will, over time, make you a faster typer as your fingers acclimate.

No matter what type of key switch you have on your keyboard, whether it’s linear, tactile, or clicky switches, they all provide physical feedback.

In addition, clicky switches also make a louder noise when pressed down. If you type on these switches for a while, you’ll see an improvement in your typing speed.

You can speed the process along by using online tools, such as typrX, which has gamified typing with online leaderboards and the ability to race other people across the world or challenge specific friends to a type-out.

Trying out blank keycaps can also help by making it impossible for you to see the legends on each key by looking down at your fingers. Oh, and don’t slouch. Bad posture also makes your typing slower and could lead to injury.

So, do mechanical keyboards make you type faster?

When it comes to typing speed, having that solid key travel and actuation force can definitely help increase your words per minute. Your fingers instantly know when a key is registered, so you can move on to the next one faster.

That said, no magic keyboard is going to instantly double your typing speed. You still need practice and good technique to max out those gains.

But if you’re serious about getting faster and more accurate at typing, a high-end mechanical board gives you an advantage. The durability keeps that smooth, speedy feel going for years too.

So if you’ve got the cash, mechanical is the way to go. Your fingers will thank you, even if your wallet won’t.

What do you think? Do you feel like you type faster on a mechanical keyboard? Let us know down below in the comments or carry the discussion over to our Twitter or Facebook.

Editors’ Recommendations:

• The best gaming keyboards available
• Should I get a mechanical keyboard for my laptop?
• What is the best mechanical keyboard for Mac?
• Why is my mechanical keyboard so loud?

The post Can a mechanical keyboard help you type faster? appeared first on KnowTechie.

If you are a serious PC gamer, you probably understand that you need great peripherals to go along with your gaming PC. Finding the best gaming keyboard for you is a great start.

Without this vital piece of the puzzle, you’re basically buying a supercar only to put spare tires on it. And who would do that?

If the thought of spending hours researching gaming keyboards sounds terrible, don’t worry. We’ve spent time researching for you and have found the best options out there.

You’ll want something responsive, comfortable, and preferably with RGB to match the rest of your setup, and there are a lot of choices out there.

It can feel overwhelming if you are new to PC gaming or mechanical keyboards. Here’s what you need to know.

What are the best keyboard switches for gaming?

Before we begin, we’d like to discuss key switch choices. Firstly, you will want a mechanical keyboard, not one using membrane keys. It’s just going to be more enjoyable to use.

Then you’ll want to think about the type of switch you want, whether you prefer a linear response or a more tactile one. There’s also the option to go optomechanical, where the keypresses are registered by light.

The key point is that you can choose a keyboard that will suit your preferences to get the best gaming performance.

Don’t forget to consider which size you want and if you want additional features such as media keys or macros. But that’s enough talk. Let’s see what the best gaming keyboards of 2024 look like.

The best gaming keyboards 2024

SteelSeries Apex Pro Mini

We’ll kick things off with one of our favorites here at KnowTechie. The SteelSeries Apex Pro Mini is a 60 percent form factor keyboard, packing all of the necessary keys into a compact size.

It features the company’s own Omnipoint 2.0 adjustable switches. This lets you set your own actuation point from 0.2mm to 3.8mm on every key individually.

Aside from adjustable actuation, the Apex Pro Mini is equipped with RGB, PBT keycaps, and an aluminum shell. Click the button below for more details.

Read our review here: Review: SteelSeries Apex Pro Mini mechanical keyboard

Corsair K70 RGB TKL Champion Series

Corsair consistently delivers premium gaming keyboards, and 2023 is no different. The K70 RGB TKL Champion Series features Corsair’s popular dynamic per-key RGB for ultimate customization for your setup.

It comes with classic Cherry MX switches of your choice in another compact design. Built with competitive gaming in mind, the K70 Champion Series is a no-nonsense mechanical keyboard with a few extra bells and whistles.

It’s you can typically get this keyboard for $149.99. But if you keep your eye out, you can sometimes find it on sale for a great deal. Click below to find out more.

Razer BlackWidow V3 Pro

Razer has always made premium gaming keyboards, and the BlackWidow V3 Pro is our first wireless option on the list. It can connect via Bluetooth, a dedicated dongle, or with a wire in a pinch.

It comes with Razer’s own yellow mechanical switches. These are smooth switches with no tactile feedback and dampeners for a quieter gaming experience.

Or you can go with the Razer greens if you order from the website. That will give you a much more tactile and clicky experience.

The BlackWidow V3 Pro is incredibly durable with support for up to 80 million clicks. And you’ll want to utilize as many of those clicks as possible after forking over $229.99 for the BlackWidow V3 Pro.

Razer Ornata V3

If you’re looking for a more affordable option from Razer, the Ornata V3 is a great choice.

It features the company’s combination mecha-membrane switches for the tactile feel of mechanical switches and the softer touch of membranes.

The low-profile design is great for fans of smaller keyboards, similar to laptops. It’s a full-sized keyboard, but packs all the keys, including four media keys, into a compact design.

The Razer Ornata V3 typically sells for $69.

HyperX Alloy Origins

HyperX’s Alloy Origins series is an affordable mechanical keyboard line that has multiple layout options. Additionally, you can choose between two different switch types.

There is a full-size model, a 65 model, a 60 model, and a ten-keyless model. You also have the choice between HyperX Red and Aqua switches.

Everything is encased in an aluminum body, and, of course, the keyboard is stuffed with RGB.

Wooting Two HE

The Wooting Two HE might not technically belong on this list since it’s currently available only through preorder to ship in 2023. But we had to add this beast to our favorites.

The Wooting Two HE uses an analog switch allowing per-key adjustment, similar to the SteelSeries Apex Pro Mini. It uses the company’s own Lekker linear switches that measure the entire keystroke, from top to bottom.

Another nice benefit of the Wooting Two HE is no unnecessary software downloads. You can customize the entire keyboard on board without the need for any extra programs.

It’s available for $194.99 from the company’s website. Click below for more information.

Cooler Master CK721

Next up we have a familiar name in the PC components world, but maybe less so when it comes to peripherals. Still, the Cooler Master CK721 is one of the nicest keyboards we’ve used this year.

This is another minimalistic keyboard with a 65 percent layout for ultra-portability. It comes with a dedicated 2.4GHz dongle, or you can connect it with Bluetooth to just about any device.

The keyboard comes with Cherry MX Blue switches, but yo. And what really helps to sell the CK721 is how nice it looks.

It comes in a white-on-silver or gunmetal finish that looks absolutely gorgeous. And how could we forget individual RGB for every key?

For a wireless keyboard, the CK721 is available for a modest price at just $119.99. It’s listed cheaper, just $99.99, on the website, but it’s currently out of stock there. Click below for more information.

Das Keyboard 6

While the Das Keyboard 6 isn’t marketed as a gaming keyboard, it deserves a place on this list. It’s a full-sized keyboard with Cherry MX switches and a full array of media buttons accompanied by a volume nob.

The keyboard also includes two USB-C passthrough ports that you can use to keep your devices charged or connect media to your PC. No RGB this time, but there is a white LED backlighting option to spice things up a bit.

We loved the Das Keyboard 6 when we reviewed it a couple of months ago. This professional mechanical keyboard is available for $199. Check it out below.

Keychron K2

Keychron is another brand making a name for itself with its wireless mechanical keyboards. The Keychron K2 is an 84-key layout, shoving tons of input into as small a form factor as possible.

It connects via a wired USB-C cable or its highly-reliable Broadcom Bluetooth 5.1 chipset. You can connect to up to three devices at once and easily switch between them with a button.

It also comes with a battery with up to 72 hours of typing or seven days of normal use. And for a wireless keyboard, the price is not too much at all, at just $79 on the company’s website.

Logitech G915 Lightspeed

Next up is the full-size G915 Lightspeed from Logitech. This keyboard puts a unique spin on mechanical switches.

The low-profile GL switches offer the performance and feedback of mechanical switches at half the height. The size and shape are also much closer to laptops or other membrane keyboards.

The G915 also offers full-range, 16.8 million color RGB backlighting for ultimate customization. Plus, it’s wireless, with up to 30 hours of gaming time on a single charge.

One of the few full-size keyboards on our list, the Logitech G915 Lightspeed is a little on the higher price side at $249.99. But this is another option that you can find on sale pretty often.

Roccat Vulcan II Max

The Roccat Vulcan II Max is a unique full-sized keyboard that will feel right at home in gamers’ hands.

This is a full-size keyboard complete with a number pad and a set of four media controls. It comes with TITAN II optical mechanical switches with great feedback.

The keycaps are thin, replicating a laptop keyboard, and it has 24 built-in “smart keys” with secondary functions, like muting your microphone, for extra convenience.

If you’re a fan of RGB, you’ll definitely want to check out the Roccat Vulcan II Max. It’s available for the retail price of $229, but be sure to shop around and look for good deals.

Getting the right gaming keyboard is key to a good PC setup

After spending the big bucks on building or buying yourself a nice gaming PC, the last thing you want to do is fork over some more money for peripherals.

But you need a good gaming keyboard to make the experience even better. Making the jump to mechanical switches can be a game-changer, and you’ll want to find a keyboard with the right features.

These are the best gaming keyboards in 2023, but if we come across anything else we feel deserves a place, it’ll get added to the list. Now, all you need to decide is which one is right for you.2

The fastest switches for gaming are typically considered to be the Cherry MX Speed switches, specifically the Silver variant. These switches have an incredibly short actuation distance of just 1.2mm, allowing for lightning-fast input response during gaming sessions. Their linear nature and low actuation force also contribute to their popularity among gamers.

Editors’ Recommendations:

• The best Steam Deck accessories
• These are the best Spotify alternatives for streaming music
• The best Windows and macOS keyboard shortcuts
• Review: Das Keyboard 6 Professional mechanical keyboard

Just a heads up, if you buy something through our links, we may get a small share of the sale. It’s but one of the ways we keep the lights on here. Click here for more.

The post The best mechanical gaming keyboards (2024) appeared first on KnowTechie.

With so many options, specifications, and acronyms floating around out there, how on earth are we supposed to know which one is the right fit for our specific needs?

Fear not, fellow tech enthusiasts. We’re here to guide you through this perplexing maze in search of that ideal central processing unit.

In this article, we’ll simplify the complex world of CPUs by breaking down what each spec means and how it will impact your computing experience.

By the time you’ve finished reading this post (promise!), you’ll have all the tools necessary to make an informed decision when choosing the perfect CPU for your next build or upgrade.

So let’s dive in and take some control over those daunting processor choices – together.

1. Understanding the basics

Before diving into the world of processors to find the perfect CPU for your system, it’s essential to understand the basics. After all, a solid foundation is key to making an informed decision.

The central processing unit (CPU) serves as the brain of your computer. It interprets and executes instructions from various software programs and hardware components, ensuring everything runs smoothly.

A crucial aspect to consider when choosing a CPU is the number of cores it has. These are individual processing units within the processor that work simultaneously to handle multiple tasks efficiently.

More cores often lead to better performance, especially in demanding tasks like gaming or video editing.

Another vital factor is clock speed – this indicates how fast a processor can complete cycles and execute instructions. A higher clock speed typically results in faster overall performance.

However, don’t forget that factors like power consumption and heat generation also come into play when comparing CPUs with different clock speeds.

By familiarizing yourself with these basic concepts, you’ll be better equipped as you navigate through our guide on choosing the right CPU for your needs. So let’s get started!

What is a CPU?

A CPU, or Central Processing Unit, is often considered the brain of a computer. It’s responsible for carrying out instructions and performing calculations to ensure your system runs smoothly.

Think of it as the maestro conducting an orchestra: every action you take on your computer needs to be processed by the CPU before being executed.

The performance of a CPU is affected by several factors like its cores, clock speed, cache size, and more.

When shopping for a new processor or building your own desktop PC from scratch, understanding these key terms can help you determine which CPU best fits your needs and budget.

In this blog post, we’ll guide you through choosing the right CPU for you – whether that’s finding one suitable for heavy gaming sessions or something tailored to everyday tasks like browsing and word processing.

So buckle up as we dive deeper into the world of processors.

What are the CPU cores?

CPU cores are essentially the “brains” of a processor, responsible for executing instructions and carrying out tasks.

Each core represents an individual processing unit that can work on different tasks simultaneously, which means more cores generally equate to better multitasking capabilities and overall performance in your system.

Modern processors may feature anywhere from two to sixteen cores or even more in some high-end chips. For instance, Intel’s mainstream line of processors features up to 8 cores, while AMD Ryzen chips offer up to 16 cores.

The number of CPU cores you need depends on the type of applications you plan on running. If you primarily use your computer for basic tasks like web browsing or word processing, then a dual-core processor might suffice.

However, if you’re into gaming or video editing that requires higher processing power, opting for a quad-core or greater will yield significantly better performance.

Keep in mind that having multiple CPU cores doesn’t always translate directly into faster speeds—other factors such as clock speed and cache size, also play important roles in determining overall performance.

Nonetheless, understanding what CPU cores are and how they function is essential when choosing the right processor for your needs.

What is clock speed?

Clock speed, often measured in gigahertz (GHz), is an essential factor to consider when picking your CPU. It refers to the frequency at which a processor can execute instructions and perform tasks.

Essentially, it acts as the heartbeat of your CPU, dictating how many cycles it can complete within a second.

A higher clock speed means faster performance, enabling your computer to process more data and run applications more efficiently.

However, it’s important not to get too caught up in chasing the highest numbers; there’s a delicate balance between raw power and efficient system management.

For instance, gaming enthusiasts might prioritize higher clock speeds for better in-game responsiveness and smooth graphics rendering.

On the other hand, video editing or heavy multitasking may require CPUs with multiple cores that can handle simultaneous processing without getting bogged down by excessive power consumption.

In summary, understanding clock speed helps you make informed decisions about what kind of performance you need from your processor while keeping other aspects like energy efficiency and multi-core capabilities in mind.

2. Consider your needs

Before diving into the world of processors, it’s essential to take a step back and evaluate your needs. After all, choosing the right CPU is like finding the perfect pair of shoes – you need something that fits your style and requirements.

Start by asking yourself what tasks you’ll be performing on your computer. Are you building a rig for heavy-duty gaming or video editing?

Or perhaps you’re looking for a more general-purpose machine that can handle everyday tasks such as browsing, word processing, and streaming media.

Identify what level of performance matters most to you within your budget constraints. High-performance CPUs are not only faster but oftentimes more expensive than their entry-level counterparts.

Consider how much power consumption matters in relation to overall computing capabilities; energy-efficient options may prioritize long-term cost savings over immediate speed increases.

Once you’ve outlined the specifics of what’s important to you in a processor – whether it’s powerful gaming potential or smooth multitasking abilities – you’ll be better equipped to choose an option tailored specifically for your computing endeavors.

Keep these preferences in mind when determining factors such as socket type, AMD vs. Intel rivalry, cooling systems availability, and other crucial features.

Remember: there’s no one-size-fits-all solution when it comes to CPUs – so taking time upfront will save disappointment later!

Determine your budget

When you embark on the quest to find your perfect CPU, it’s crucial first to set a budget. This will help narrow down your options and prevent you from spending too much on this essential component.

Keep in mind that the price range for processors is vast—you may come across inexpensive ones that cater to basic computing tasks or high-end models that promise power and performance for gaming, video editing, and more.

Depending on what you’re looking for, there’s probably a CPU within your budget that can meet your needs; however, don’t be swayed by powerful chips with eye-catching specifications if they exceed what you can afford.

It’s easy to get caught up in the numbers game when comparing cores, clock speeds, and integrated graphics capabilities—but remember that a pricier processor doesn’t always guarantee a better user experience.

Be honest with yourself about how much money you’re willing to invest in a processor without compromising other components of your system build or upgrade.

If necessary, consider allocating extra funds toward areas like cooling solutions or dedicated graphics cards while maintaining reasonable expectations about the performance of your chosen CPU.

Setting realistic parameters based on factors like usage requirements and affordability will make it easier for you to pick the ideal processor without breaking the bank.

And once you’ve determined an appropriate price range, peruse through different brands—such as Intel and AMD—to explore available options best suited for both performance demands and financial constraints.

Choose the right socket

Choosing the right socket is a crucial step when selecting your CPU. The socket refers to the physical connector on your motherboard where the processor will be installed.

Ensuring compatibility between your CPU and motherboard is essential for smooth operation and optimal performance.

There are different sockets available in the market, each designed for specific chipsets and processors from Intel or AMD, such as AM4 for Ryzen or LGA 1200 for Intel’s 10th-generation CPUs.

It’s important to know which socket matches your desired processor before making any purchases.

To choose the right socket, first, examine the type of processor you’re interested in buying – whether it’s an Intel or AMD model – then research which sockets are compatible with that particular chipset series.

You’ll also want to consider any future upgrades you might make; selecting a more recent socket may provide better support for newer processors down the line.

Remember that compatibility doesn’t end at just choosing components with matching sockets; ensure all other hardware aspects like RAM, cooling solutions, and power supply units complement one another within your build as well.

By carefully considering these factors in conjunction with socket selection, you’ll set yourself up for success in building a powerful and efficient computer system tailored to meet your unique needs.

Decide between AMD and Intel

Deciding between AMD and Intel is a crucial step when choosing the right CPU for your needs. Both brands have their advantages, catering to different consumer preferences and use cases.

AMD’s Ryzen series shines with its excellent price-to-performance ratio, often offering more cores and threads within similar or lower price ranges compared to its Intel counterparts.

If you’re looking for great value without compromising on performance, AMD might be the way to go.

On the other hand, Intel processors are known for their high single-core clock speeds – this can translate into snappier performance in tasks that don’t utilize multiple cores efficiently.

Additionally, Intel’s integrated graphics solutions tend to outshine those offered by AMD, providing a better experience if you’re not using a dedicated graphics card.

Ultimately, your choice will come down to your specific requirements and budget constraints – research both options thoroughly before making a decision.

Look for the right features

When you’re looking for the right CPU, it’s essential to consider the various features that will cater specifically to your needs. These features make up a processor’s arsenal and contribute significantly to its performance in different tasks.

For instance, if you’re into gaming or video editing, integrated graphics might be something you want to pay attention to.

An integrated GPU can handle light gaming sessions and basic video editing without requiring a dedicated graphics card, saving you money in the process.

Another feature worth noting is cache memory. A higher cache capacity means faster access to frequently used data and smoother overall performance.

If your daily computing tasks involve multitasking or running heavy software, choosing a CPU with an ample amount of cache will help ensure smooth operation.

In addition, power efficiency is crucial when selecting the perfect processor for your system.

Some chips come with energy-saving technologies that allow them to deliver impressive performance without consuming too much power – important if you are concerned about electricity bills or overclocking capabilities.

Lastly, compatibility plays a significant role in ensuring that all components within your build work together seamlessly.

Make sure the CPU you choose supports specific chipsets on motherboards so as not only to guarantee flawless interaction but also to provide an upgrade path down the line.

Overall, finding the right combination of these features tailored to your unique requirements is key in making an informed decision while selecting CPUs.

3. Choosing the right CPU

Now that you’ve got a clearer understanding of your needs and budget, it’s time to dive into the ocean of CPUs available on the market.

Choosing the right CPU may seem like a daunting task, but with some careful consideration and research, you’ll be able to find one tailor-made for your computing goals.

Firstly, pinpoint an appropriate processor that suits your requirements. For instance, if gaming is at the top of your priority list, look for processors designed specifically for gamers in mind.

AMD Ryzen series or Intel Core i5/i7 models would be solid choices as they provide high-performance levels without breaking the bank.

Once you have shortlisted potential options based on their specifications and compatibility with your motherboard’s socket type, it’s essential to compare them side by side.

Pay attention to factors such as core count, speed (clock), integrated graphics capabilities (if applicable), thermal design power (TDP), and overclocking potential when making comparisons.

Remember that there isn’t a one-size-fits-all approach to choosing a CPU; every user has different needs and preferences.

Keep in mind what tasks are most important to you – editing videos might require more processing power than running everyday applications like browsing or streaming content.

In conclusion: do thorough research based on your desired computer build or upgrade goals while keeping both budgetary constraints and future requirements within sight.

By doing so, it will lead you down the path towards finding that perfect central processing unit tailored just for you!

Select the appropriate processor

When it comes to selecting the right processor, you’ll want to focus on finding one that best suits your specific needs and fits within your budget. There are a few factors to consider when making this decision, such as performance, compatibility, and features.

First, think about the tasks you’ll be performing on your computer. If you’re primarily using it for web browsing or word processing, a budget-friendly option with modest performance might suffice.

However, if gaming or video editing will be part of your regular routine, then opting for a more powerful processor is crucial. Common choices in this category include Intel’s Core i5 or i7 series and AMD’s Ryzen 5 or 7 processors.

Next, ensure the CPU you select is compatible with both your motherboard’s socket type and chipset. You don’t want to invest time and money into building a system only to find out that certain components aren’t working together correctly.

Finally, look into additional features offered by different processors—such as integrated graphics capabilities or overclocking potential—to determine which model provides the best value for what matters most in your computing experience.

Remember: Don’t get too caught up in having the latest and greatest model on the market; rather, focus on finding an appropriate balance between performance and price that caters explicitly to your individual computing requirements.

Compare your options

Now that you have a clear understanding of your needs and the types of processors available, it’s time to compare your options.

As with any buying decision, there are several factors to consider when choosing the right CPU for your system. Performance, price range, and compatibility should all be taken into account.

Start by making a list of CPUs that meet both your budget constraints and performance requirements.

Look at key specifications such as core count, clock speed, cache size, and integrated graphics capabilities. Compare these features across different models from both Intel and AMD.

Take some time to read user reviews as well. This can often provide valuable insight into how each processor performs in real-world situations like gaming or video editing tasks.

Remember not to rely solely on customer reviews – professional benchmarks are also an essential part of determining which CPU is the best fit for you.

By taking a systematic approach to compare different processors side-by-side, you’ll be able to weigh their pros and cons more effectively before making your final decision.

4. Installing the CPU

Now that you have a clear understanding of how to choose the right CPU for your needs, it’s time to tackle the installation process. Don’t worry! Installing a CPU can be quite simple as long as you follow the proper steps and take the necessary precautions.

Firstly, prepare your motherboard by ensuring it is compatible with the selected processor. Check its socket type and chipset compatibility with your chosen CPU model.

For example, if you’re using an Intel or AMD Ryzen processor, make sure that your motherboard has a matching socket in which these chips can securely fit.

Once compatibility is confirmed and all components are ready, proceed by carefully installing the CPU onto the motherboard.

Make sure to align it correctly – there should be markings on both the chip and socket indicating their correct orientation. Gently lower it into place without applying any pressure; modern processors will usually slide in seamlessly once aligned.

After securing the CPU properly within its socket, install an appropriate cooling system/cooler to keep temperatures under control during operation.

This may range from air cooler options to liquid cooling systems for heavy-duty setups or overclocked builds.

Remember: patience and precision are key when handling delicate components like CPUs while installing them into your computer system.

Take adequate care during installation so you don’t accidentally damage any parts along the way. Happy building!

Prepare the Motherboard

Before diving into the installation process, it’s essential to prepare your motherboard for the new CPU. In doing so, you’ll ensure smooth and seamless integration with your system.

Remember that compatibility is key – double-check that the motherboard’s socket matches the CPU you’ve chosen.

Now, first things first: power down your computer and unplug all cables before proceeding. You don’t want any electrical mishaps during this delicate operation.

Next, consider grounding yourself by using an anti-static wrist strap or frequently touching a metal object to prevent any potential damage from static electricity.

With safety measures in place, locate your motherboard inside your computer case (if it’s not already on a workbench).

Identify where the processor will sit – it should be right at the center of a large square area surrounded by various components. Gently clean the socket area if necessary, ensuring there aren’t any dust particles or obstructions in its way.

By preparing your motherboard diligently and with caution, you’ll create an optimal environment for installing your new CPU with ease and confidence. In turn, this will help maximize performance while minimizing risks for both hardware and user alike.

Install the CPU

Now that you’ve selected your ideal CPU, it’s time to install it. You may feel a bit nervous about this step, but there’s no need to worry! Installing your processor is actually quite simple and can be done in just a few minutes with the right tools and a steady hand.

First, make sure your computer is powered off and unplugged from any power source. Then, open up your computer case to access the motherboard.

Gently remove the CPU socket cover on the motherboard by lifting or sliding it out of its position – this exposes the many delicate pins within that will connect with your new processor.

It’s important to handle both the socket cover and CPU carefully since bending any of these pins could result in performance issues or even permanent damage.

Now comes the moment of truth: placing the CPU onto its rightful throne (the socket). Carefully hold onto its edges – avoid touching any other components like capacitors or resistors surrounding it.

Find an identifying mark on both items, typically notches or golden triangles that match up with each other when aligned correctly. These markings ensure a proper fit between them when they are combined.

Once you’re certain everything lines up perfectly, gently lower down the processor into place without exerting too much pressure – it should sit comfortably atop those pins if perfectly positioned.

With everything set firmly in place, close down any retention mechanisms used by your motherboard (some might use clips while others have arm-like structures), ensuring security for all parts involved during operation times ahead!

Congratulations! You’ve successfully installed your new CPU into your system – but don’t celebrate just yet as we still need to secure thermal cooling solutions before powering back up again…

Secure the CPU

Securing the CPU is an essential step in ensuring its long-lasting performance and stability. After all, you wouldn’t want your powerful processor to come loose and cause damage to itself or other components in your system.

First, make sure that the cooler is properly seated on top of the CPU. This not only provides efficient cooling but also keeps it firmly in place. Take note of any clips or brackets that hold the cooler; these should be latched securely onto the motherboard for additional support.

Next, consider using a high-quality thermal paste if it’s not pre-applied to your cooler or CPU. This helps with heat dissipation between both surfaces, improving temperature management and overall performance.

Lastly, double-check all connections related to your processor—like power cables—from both ends to ensure they’re properly connected and secured. A loose cable can result in a range of issues, like sudden shutdowns or subpar processing speeds.

By following these steps when securing your CPU, you’re building a reliable foundation for years of computing bliss—whether gaming or tackling heavy workloads while keeping temperatures at bay.

Conclusion

In conclusion, choosing the right CPU for your needs is incredibly important when building or upgrading a computer. With the vast array of options available on the market, it can be a daunting task to navigate through all the specifications and features.

To ensure you make an informed decision, consider your specific computing needs, budget constraints, and preferences between Intel and AMD processors.

Remember that factors such as cores, clock speed, compatibility with motherboards and sockets are essential aspects to keep in mind while selecting a CPU.

Ultimately, investing time in researching different CPUs will pay off in terms of performance enhancement for tasks like gaming or video editing.

By following this guide on how to choose the right CPU for you (2023), we hope that you’ll feel confident in making an informed choice as you build or upgrade your system.

So. go forth into the world of processors with newfound knowledge and expertise – happy computing.

If you’re the type to build your own computer or are new to it, there are a lot of little things you have to consider. For instance, what happens when you try to boot your PC without a graphics card installed?

What about using wireless keyboards and a mouse that won’t connect to your new PC? Luckily, we’ve got it all covered here on KnowTechie.

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