I've spent a lot of time this summer gaming on my Steam Deck. It's hot outside, it's hot inside, and my desktop gaming PC simply creates too much heat.
The only major problem I have with my Steam Deck is that it doesn't play nicely with PC Game Pass, to which I'm a subscriber. Yeah, I could stream games to my handheld, but there's now a better solution in the works.
I'm talking about Xodus, an open-source project that's attempting to build a bridge between PC Game Pass and Linux systems, including the Steam Deck. The project is also attempting to iron out similar issues on macOS. No Windows install needed.
Xodus comes from the developers behind the Heroic Games Launcher, a separate open-source app that brings Epic, GOG, and Amazon Prime titles to Steam Deck (it also works on Windows, macOS, and other Linux systems).
The developers are undoubtedly up against a grind with this project. Xbox PC games that come from the Xbox app rely primarily on a Microsoft Game Development Kit (GDK) runtime, which is a far cry from DirectX and Win32 layers that Valve's Proton already handles quite well.
This Microsoft GDK is really what has kept PC Game Pass from running directly on the Steam Deck (and macOS) for so long.
Is Xodus ready for public release?
Xodus could finally bridge the gap between PC Game Pass and Steam Deck. (Image credit: Rebecca Spear / Windows Centarl)
According to updates shared on the Xodus GitHub page, the developers have cracked Xbox authorization, license checks, and MSIXVC package (the containers that PC games come in) download and decryption.
In a Reddit post, a Xodus developer noted that the team's main focus is now getting the Software Development Kit (SDK) for each title to run through Wine. It appears that Xodus has its own Wine and Proton forks for this purpose, as well as an open-source version of the xgameruntime.dll file that Game Pass games depend on.
Xodus likely won't support all Game Pass games when it launches, either. Older games that eschew GDK and MSIXVC for UWP will likely come later, if at all.
Why I'm so excited to try out Xodus on my Steam Deck
PC Game Pass on Steam would open up a whole lot of new options for gaming on the go. (Image credit: Future)
As mentioned, the biggest drawback to my Steam Deck, aside from its growing age, is its lack of native PC Game Pass support.
Sure, I could upgrade to a newer handheld that natively runs Windows, but it looks like I might not need to quite yet. That's especially exciting considering just how expensive gaming handhelds have become of late.
Then there's the Steam Machine, another Valve device running the Linux-based SteamOS. A whole bunch of gamers recently got their hands on the Steam Machine when it launched in June, and making PC Game Pass an option can only benefit Microsoft.
Here's the rub: Xodus has no affiliation with Microsoft. It's an unofficial community project created by independent developers. Does that mean Microsoft will have a problem with it? Not likely, but you never can tell.
Xodus still doesn't have an official release date, but it's something I'll be keeping my eyes on as it progresses. If you're a Linux gamer who wishes they could use PC Game Pass natively, you'll definitely want to keep watch as well.
What do you think about Xodus as a bridge between Steam Deck/Machine and PC Game Pass? Is it something you'd use regularly? Do you already have an alternative method that works better for you? Let me know in the comments section below!
Razer's gaming keyboards rank among the best on the market, whether you're looking to crush the competition in games or type up school reports. However, if you've ever shopped around, you've probably noticed how many are on the higher end of the affordability scale.
Fortunately, one of Razer's top-rated wired gaming keyboards, the Huntsman V3 Pro 60%, has managed to evade lofty pricing for a limited time, thanks to a 28% discount bringing it to $129.99 at Best Buy, giving you a chance to get a leg up on multiplayer and get a head start on your studies for less.
"Your hands are certainly going to fall in love with the textured keycaps, robust switch feel, and fantastic analog features." — Tabitha Baker, Managing Editor (Hardware) at our sister site, GamesRadar+
A top view of the Razer Huntsman V3 Pro 60% keyboard. (Image credit: GamesRadar (Tabitha Baker) | Razer)
For starters, this keyboard features Razer'sAnalog Optical Gen-2 switches, which grant it extremely precise and responsive input detection speeds, which can be enhanced further with a Rapid Trigger mode and adjustable actuation that ranges between 0.1 mm and 4.0 mm.
The Huntsman V3 Pro 60% also features textured double-shot PBT keycaps with a keystroke lifespan of 100-million clicks to help it endure many years of intense button mashing.
Other notable features include a sleek and compact 60% form factor that makes it very portable-friendly while saving tons of vital desk space, buttons that double as arrow keys, and a Razer Snap Tap feature, which prioritizes the latest input between two selected keys without letting go of the previous one for near-instant directional movements in action games.
The only noticeable drawbacks of this keyboard are the somewhat noisy switches with no sound dampening (as noted in GamesRadar's review), the lack of wireless connectivity, and its usually steep listing price of $179.99.
So, it's a blessing to see its high price taken down to somewhat more affordable levels thanks to Best Buy's 28% discount, especially during this general RAM crisis where almost everything else in tech has become so insanely expensive.
If you're looking for a high-quality wired gaming keyboard that doubles as a high-speed workhorse keyboard for helping you ace exams or assignments, you can't go wrong with the Razer Huntsman V3 Pro 60%.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is it wireless?
No, this keyboard connects to devices purely through wired connections via a detachable USB-C to USB-A cable.
Is compatible with consoles?
While it can connect other devices via USB connections, the Razer Huntsman V3 Pro Mini 60% keyboard's configuration software is only operable on Windows PCs.
What is it a 60% keyboard?
60% keyboards are 60 percent the size of a standard, full-sized keyboard that removes the numpad, top row function keys (F1-F12), arrow keys (although the Razer Huntsman V3 Pro 60% keys that double as arrow keys), and the navigation cluster, leaving only the main typing key area intact to save desk space and make it more portable-friendly.
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Before Microsoft acquired Nokia, the company was heavily rumoured to be working on its own in-house Windows Phone device that was expected to ship in 2014 under the Surface moniker alongside its Surface Pro device. Unfortunately for Windows Phone fans, such a device never saw the light of day, but newly published images of a mysterious prototype might have just given us our first and only look at what Microsoft was exploring internally.
Possibly codenamed Raven, there isn't much information available about this prototype, other than the fact that it’s from the 2013-2014 time frame and is running an early pre-release build of Windows Phone 8.1. It’s powered by an unknown Qualcomm chip, has a 720p screen, features a Microsoft logo on the back, and a silver metal frame that matches the colour of the Surface 2 that released that same year.
We can see in the photos that it has dedicated hardware keys for navigation, which are also coated in the same silver color as the chassis. The build of Windows Phone that it’s running appears to be from September 2013, and is from an internal development branch building towards what eventually became Windows Phone 8.1.
Real images of this mysterious Windows Phone prototype. (Image credit: Telegram/Discord)
While not viewable in the images, I understand the device features individual up and down volume buttons and a camera button on the right-hand side of the device, and a power button on the top of the device. It also features a micro-USB port and headphone jack on the bottom side, and a SIM card slot on the left side.
This is likely one of dozens of prototype designs that Microsoft’s hardware teams cooked up during this era, but it’s certainly a fascinating look at what could have been, and it does look so clean. Development on this device was likely paused once Microsoft moved to acquire Nokia in 2014.
Back in 2013, I remember hearing from sources that Microsoft was experimenting with the concept of a "Skype Phone," a Windows Phone device with mobile data that utilized Skype for calls and messaging instead of traditional carrier networks. Perhaps this device was going to be that? Who knows.
The Surface Phone we eventually got arrived as the Surface Duo, which started development in 2016 and launched to the public in 2020. In that time, Microsoft shipped Nokia designs in the form of the Lumia 640, 650, 950, and 550 running Windows Phone, before abandoning the platform in 2017.
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Dell's XPS 13, starting at $599 for students and $699 for everyone else, kicked off a new market sector of affordable-but-premium Windows 11 PCs. It's not likely to be usurped by the new Acer Swift Air 14 unless you need more ports, a larger display, or more expressive color options.
Pros
Beautiful aluminum design that's more compact
2.5K display with plenty of brightness; 30Hz-120Hz variable refresh rate
IR camera for Windows Hello
Starts at $599 for students
Cons
No USB-A or 3.5mm audio
Thunderbolt 4 is only available with more expensive models
Acer's Swift Air 14 arrives to challenge the $699 affordable-but-premium PC market, and it should be the right choice for those who want a larger 14-inch display, more color options, and a more generous selection of ports.
Pros
Thunderbolt 4 ports come standard, includes USB-A and 3.5mm audio
Four color options, beautiful aluminum design
Larger 14-inch display hits 120Hz
Could have slightly better battery life compared to XPS 13
IR camera for Windows Hello
Cons
Slightly larger and heavier (though you get a larger display)
No Dolby Vision, lower-res display
No Panther Lake option for power users
Dell's latest XPS 13 (DX13260) was unveiled at Computex 2026 and launched in June, starting at $599 for students and $699 for everyone else.
Not to be outdone, Acer also unveiled a new budget $699 Windows 11 laptop at Computex; the Acer Swift Air 14 is expected to launch in North America in August ... basically any day now.
Considering how closely matched these two PCs are in price, I thought it was best to put together a comparison to help you make the right decision.
Dell XPS 13 vs. Acer Swift Air 14: Specifications
Here's a breakdown of the specs that go into each of these laptops to give you a better idea of what you're buying.
TL;DR? Acer's Swift Air 14 is a larger laptop with a much larger battery capacity, and both PCs run on the same Intel Wildcat Lake chips. I break down the differences in some detail below this table.
These budget laptops feel like they should cost a lot more than $699
Showing off the Acer Swift Air 14's color options. (Image credit: Windows Central / Zac Bowden)
One major feature that sets these budget laptops apart from other PCs in the same price range is their aluminum frames. These are laptops with a truly premium feel despite their budget pricing.
It's a beautiful laptop, complete with a metal enclosure that feels premium to touch, and a large trackpad and excellent keyboard that make using the device feel great.
Zac Bowden
Dell offers two colors — Storm or Sky — for its XPS 13, while Acer offers Sage Green, Frost Blue, Blossom Pink, and Lilac Purple colors for a bit of extra expression.
The Swift Air 14 is the larger of the two laptops due to its 14-inch screen. It's still only about 12.36 inches wide (basically the size that 13-inch laptops used to be), and it weighs in at just 2.75 pounds (1.25kg).
The XPS 13 has a width of 11.69 inches and weighs in at 2.2 pounds (1kg), which is considerably lighter. I'd say that both of these laptops are extremely portable, and there's a difference of just 0.1 inches when it comes to thickness.
The laptops feel premium, and that's really what matters with such affordable devices. Bowden, too, went hands-on with the new XPS 13, stating:
The new XPS 13 doesn't cut any obvious corners to reach its new $699 price point. It still feels every bit as premium and nice to use as the $1,000 XPS 13 before it. This would be like if Apple made the MacBook Air a $699 laptop, instead of building a cheaper MacBook Neo.
Zac Bowden
TL;DR: Both laptops have a premium design and build quality, and they're both relatively thin and light. Stick with the XPS 13 if you want to be as mobile as possible, though the Swift Air 14 isn't far behind.
Touchpads and keyboards don't suffer from budget pricing
A closer look at the XPS 13's backlit keyboard and mechanical touchpad. (Image credit: Future)
As I mentioned, these laptops don't feel like they cost $699. Zac Bowden and I tested them both while we were at Computex, and it's clear that both brands put a lot of work into their keyboards and touchpads.
Dell skipped its lattice-free keyboard design on the new XPS 13 for a more traditional feel, and its mechanical touchpad (no haptics, unfortunately) is large and has a satisfying click.
In the same vein, the Swift Air 14's keyboard has decent travel and a comfy feel. The touchpad, again without haptics, is large and tracks well. You'll ultimately have to decide for yourself which setup you like more, but I can say that neither laptop skimps on the backlit keyboard and mechanical touchpad.
TL;DR: Your final decision will likely come down to personal preference, but I can say after testing both laptops that neither is likely to disappoint in terms of touchpad and keyboard.
Port selection might be the weak spot for some users
A look at the Swift Air 14's USB-A port and 3.5mm audio jack. (Image credit: Zac Bowden / Windows Central)
The XPS 13 with Intel's Wildcat Lake chips features dual USB-C 3.2 (Gen 2) ports. If you spend more on a model with an Intel Panther Lake CPU, you'll get two Thunderbolt 4 ports instead.
The Swift Air 14 is a lot better on ports, with dual Thunderbolt 4, one USB-A 3.2, and a 3.5mm audio jack.
As for wireless connectivity, the XPS 13 has more modern Wi-Fi 7 connectivity paired with Bluetooth 6.0. The Acer Swift Air 14 falls back to Wi-Fi 6E and Bluetooth 5.3. Is this a difference an average user will notice in day-to-day computing? Absolutely not.
TL;DR: Dell's most affordable XPS 13 models don't come with Thunderbolt 4, and there's no 3.5mm audio jack. Acer's Swift Air 14 comes with dual Thunderbolt 4 by default, plus it adds USB-A and an audio jack.
Both PCs have IR cameras for Windows Hello
The bezel above the Swift Air 14's display houses a 1080p webcam with IR capabilities for Windows Hello. (Image credit: Windows Central / Zac Bowden)
Something you don't see very often in budget laptops is an IR camera for Windows Hello. This additional hardware built into the above-display cameras unlocks facial recognition for Windows 11, adding an invaluable layer of security for any type of user.
Both laptops have a regular 1080p camera for video conferencing and stills. We had limited time to test cameras during our hands-on, but each seemed to do a good job of handling varying lighting conditions.
TL;DR: There's not much difference here between the 1080p webcams with IR sensors for Windows Hello facial recognition.
Dell's XPS 13 has a superior display compared to the Swift Air 14
A bright display with a 2.5K resolution comes standard in the XPS 13.
Measuring 13.4 inches with a 2560x1600 (2.5K) resolution, the XPS 13's display doesn't fail to impress. It's crisp, it has plenty of brightness at a 500-nit maximum, and an anti-glare finish makes it easier to see in bright conditions.
It features Dolby Vision certification for HDR content, it has a 30Hz to 120Hz variable refresh rate, and Dell clocks it at 100% DCI-P3 color gamut coverage.
The only aspect I can see Acer winning with the Swift Air 14's display is sizing. It measures 14 inches, giving some users a much-needed boost for multitasking. It also hits 100% sRGB color.
Another shot of the XPS 13's 2.5K display. (Image credit: Zac Bowden / Windows Central)
It does, however, have a lower 1920x1200 resolution and less brightness at 350 nits. It's unclear if the Swift Air 14's display has a variable refresh rate: it's listed as 120Hz only. That's a nice smooth picture, though the variable aspect can help conserve battery life.
TL;DR: The XPS 13's higher resolution, variable refresh rate, and Dolby Vision certification make it an attractive option, though some users will prefer a full 14 inches from the Swift Air 14 for easier multitasking.
Intel Wildcat Lake CPUs help keep prices down
The Intel Core Series 3 wafer used to make the Wildcat Lake chips in the XPS 13 and Swift Air 14. (Image credit: Cale Hunt | Windows Central)
Dell's Wildcat Lake Core Series 3 processors are driving both of these $699 laptops, so I don't expect there to be much difference in performance. However, there is some nuance.
The XPS 13 is currently only available with a Core 5 320 chip; a Core Ultra 7 355 chip from the more powerful Panther Lake series is expected to arrive at some point in the future. If you want the most power possible and don't mind spending more, this is the configuration I'd hold out for.
I'm expecting the Swift Air 14 to launch with the same Core 5 320 CPU in its $699 model, but Acer also lists a Core 7 350 for those with a bit more to spend. Both laptops come with 8GB or 16GB of LPDDR5 RAM, and only Dell plans to release a 32GB config for its upcoming Intel Core Ultra model.
TL;DR: The use of Intel Wildcat Lake CPUs in both laptops means performance should be close. If you want more power, only the XPS 13 is expected to offer an Intel Panther Lake alternative.
Acer's Swift Air 14 has a much larger battery capacity, but Dell has a secret weapon
The Swift Air 14 hides a sizable 70Wh battery in its slim chassis. (Image credit: Zac Bowden / Windows Central)
The Intel Wildcat Lake chips used in these laptops are geared to offer exceptional battery life.
Dell says its XPS 13 with a 52Wh battery can go for up to 17 hours when streaming video, and that's boosted by the use of 800ED battery cells that hold more power while taking up less physical space.
Acer's Swift Air 14 has a larger 70Wh battery, though it doesn't have Dell's extra-dense cells. This results in an estimated 19 hours of video playback, or 16 hours of web browsing, according to Acer.
We'll have to perform our own tests on these laptops to discover the true battery life, but I can say that both PCs should be able to get through a day of work or study without needing a charge.
TL;DR: The Swift Air 14's larger battery capacity is offset by Dell's use of denser battery cells. Both PCs should be able to go for most of a day without needing a charge.
Dell XPS 13 vs. Acer Swift Air 14: Which should you buy?
Dell's new XPS 13 is available starting at $599 for students, $699 for everyone else. (Image credit: Future)
Which laptop you ultimately choose should come down to several personal preferences. Want a larger display even with a lower resolution? Acer's laptop is the way to go. Want a larger battery capacity? The same goes.
But Dell's XPS 13 drops its price to $599 if you're a student, which makes it a particularly spectacular deal. Combine that with a higher-res 2.5K display, snappy performance, and long battery life, and you have a PC that's tough to beat.
The incumbent
Dell
XPS 13 (DX13260)
Dell's XPS 13, starting at $599 for students and $699 for everyone else, kicked off a new market sector of affordable-but-premium Windows 11 PCs. It's not likely to be usurped by the new Acer Swift Air 14 unless you need more ports, a larger display, or more expressive color options.
The Challenger
Acer
Swift Air 14 (SFA14)
Acer's Swift Air 14 arrives to challenge the $699 affordable-but-premium PC market, and it should be the right choice for those who want a larger 14-inch display, more color options, and a more generous selection of ports.
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I highlighted Dell's discount on the XPS 14 recently, and the deal has since gotten even better. I didn't think I'd see a laptop with these specs at this price in 2026. 32GB of RAM, 1TB of storage, and 3.2K OLED touch display for $1,549.99 is, quite frankly, ludicrous.
My only concern is that the laptop dropping in price quickly suggests Dell is almost out of stock and wants to clear out 2025 models to push the newer XPS 14 laptops from this year.
This premium laptop has a 3.2K OLED touch display, 32GB of RAM, and a gorgeous design that takes advantage of every millimeter available. It's one year old, but it's still an excellent laptop in 2026.
Note that the review of this laptop was from before the Dell 14 Premium was rebranded to the Dell XPS 14.
The XPS 14 is a pretty laptop built for productivity. At one time, there were a bunch of variations for this PC, but the options have been trimmed down as stock dips. The 3.2K OLED touch display in this model stands out, especially at this price.
The XPS 14 has a zero-lattice keyboard that packs large keys into a relatively small laptop body. The haptic touchpad of the XPS 14 is invisible, creating a clean look when the laptop is open.
That touchpad can take some time to get used to, but it was praised by Tom's Guide in their review:
"The keys have good travel distance and just the right amount of resistance when pressed. Once you get used to how tightly packed they are, typing is a breeze. And now that I’m used to it, the invisible touchpad doesn’t bother me. As before, I like the haptic feedback the touchpad produces, which also helps me know its location."
While I love the design of the XPS 14, it has battery life that's just OK. Our colleagues at Tom's Guide got 8 hours and 16 minutes in their testing. For context, 10 hours of battery life is considered "pretty good" in that same test.
The discounted XPS 14 model I highlighted retails for $2,899.99, but it is from last year. Many laptops from this year with 32GB of RAM and 1TB of storage cost well over $2,000. The new XPS 14 with those specs is $2,119.99 right now, and that's after a $630 discount. That version also has a 2K non-touch screen rather than the 3.2K OLED touch screen seen in the XPS 14 (2025) highlighted here.
FAQ
Is the Dell XPS 14 (2025) still worth buying in 2026?
Yes. While it is a year old, the XPS 14 featuring 32GB of RAM, a 1TB SSD, and a 3.2K OLED display is more than capable of handling heavy multitasking, content creation, and everyday workloads. At $1,549.99, it outperforms similarly priced 2026 mid-range laptops in both build quality and display specs.
What is the difference between the XPS 14 and the Dell 14 Premium?
They are the exact same laptop! Dell briefly adopted the "Dell 14 Premium" naming convention for its 2025 lineup before reverting to the "XPS" branding and retroactively updating model names.
Can I upgrade the RAM or storage later on?
The 32GB of RAM is soldered to the motherboard and cannot be upgraded after purchase, which makes the current deal a great way to future proof your laptop.
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OpenAI’s reported doughnut-shaped ChatGPT speaker is shaping up as more than a conventional smart speaker. The battery-powered, screenless device could combine cameras, environmental sensors, moving mechanical parts, and advanced voice AI at a rumored $300–$400 price, with a 2027 release targeted.
It feels like every week the component crisis worsens, driving the prices of hardware for even mid-level PC gaming to insane prices that only a few could afford without draining their savings.
Fortunately, price discounts are still a thing, giving us PC players brief respites from this RAMpocalypse. One such deal is this 26% discount for AMD Ryzen 7 7800XD, reducing the price of one of our favorite gaming CPUs from $449.99 to $333.99 on Amazon.
"Dominate any game at any level, the Ryzen 7 7800X3D offers ultimate performance with 8 cores, 16 threads, and up to 5.0GHz boost clock backed up with 96MB L3 cache." — Ben Wilson & Harish Jonnalagadda, Senior Editors
The AMD Ryzen 7 7800X3D in hand. (Image credit: Windows Central (Ben Wilson) | AMD)
The AMD Ryzen 7800X3D may be three years old, but it's still packing plenty of processing power to help your PC run games with extremely high performance that will make them feel so much smoother and more responsive to play with.
How high, you may ask? Well, my colleague, Ben Wilson, confirmed in his 4.5-star review of the AMD Ryzen 7 7800X3D that its 3D V-Cache makes an obvious difference to games, even if it doesn't thrill in productivity.
Shadow of the Tomb Raider benchmark.Ben Wilson | Windows CentralCyberpunk 2077 in-game at 200 FPS+.Ben Wilson | Windows CentralCyberpunk 2077 benchmark.Ben Wilson | Windows Central
You can boost the AMD Ryzen 7 7800X3D's performance further by overclocking it using the Precision Boost feature with the Ryzen Master app. This is all done while the AMD Ryzen 7 7800X3D's power management system keeps it stable and cool.
However, don't expect to use this CPU for grinding through productivity tasks in a speedy manner, as its performance rates in this regard are somewhat lacking compared to Intel's (often more expensive) offerings.
Additionally, the AMD Ryzen 7 7800X3D isn't compatible with DDR4 RAM, so folks running PC rigs with older RAM may need to upgrade (which is easier said than done thanks to this AI-induced RAM crisis sucking all our RAM dry).
Hewlett Packard Enterprise (HPE) and EigenQ (a cybersecurity company focused on post-quantum security) are taking a retrofit-first approach to post-quantum security, allowing organizations to add quantum-resistant protection to existing server infrastructure instead of replacing entire estates. The PCIe-based solution targets defense, government, critical infrastructure, healthcare, and financial services customers facing tighter security and compliance timelines.
Dell has identified roughly 245 PC models affected by a Windows update conflict, far more than the small group initially disclosed. The issue caused shutdowns, overheating, poor performance, and battery drain, but Microsoft’s KB5121767 update has resolved it on systems running the corrected builds.
Microsoft is changing how Windows 11 handles Modern Standby, using battery thresholds to decide when laptops should remain instantly available and when they should enter deep hibernation. The policy is now rolling out to Windows Insiders and is designed to curb overnight battery losses without sacrificing quick wake-ups when charge is plentiful.
Apple captured 65% of the global premium smartphone market in the first half of 2026, while premium devices reached a record 29% of all smartphone sales. Counterpoint Research says iPhone 17 demand, especially for the base model, helped Apple reverse last year’s decline even as competition from Chinese brands continues to erode its lead.
Apple’s incoming CEO John Ternus is beginning to reshape the company’s leadership team ahead of his September 1 succession of Tim Cook. His first reported moves include bringing retired hardware executive Laura Legros back to Apple, promoting chip chief Johny Srouji to lead hardware engineering, and taking a more active role in the company’s design organization.
The Seagate Xbox Expansion Card is a must-have accessory for the Xbox Series X and Xbox Series S. It's a plug-and-play drive with quick enough speeds to play games right from the card.
But the Seagate Xbox Expansion Card is running out of stock. Scanning the web shows retail listings with warnings of low stock or a lack of stock at all. Other stores have the cards but at inflated prices. If you want to get a Seagate Xbox Expansion Card, you need to act quickly.
Below, I'll list all places I've found the card in stock. It's now difficult to find them at all, let alone at a good price.
This card allows you to expand the storage of your Xbox Series X or Xbox Series S. Stock is extremely limited.
Is it a good time to buy a Seagate Expansion Card?
You can skip game file management and space issues with the Seagate Storage Expansion Card for Xbox. (Image credit: Windows Central)
Right now is a good time to buy a Seagate Xbox Expansion Card for three reasons. First, the card is below its launch price at certain retailers. Second, the card is running out of stock, so if you want one you need to act quickly. Third, games like GTA 6 and Call of Duty: Black Ops 7 will take up a lot of space, so you'll need more storage.
Gaming prices are out of control right now. RAM and storage seem to get more costly each month. There aren't signs of the market correcting any time soon, either.
The most pressing factor here is that stock of the Seagate Xbox Expansion Card is running out. Literally as I wrote this article, Best Buy marked the card as unavailable. Newegg and Amazon have the card in stock but at wildly inflated prices.
The only Seagate Xbox Expansion Cards I've found in stock are the ones listed above, including the 2TB model at Walmart. If you spot a model in stock, please flag it and I'll update this piece.
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Razer's gaming keyboards have consistently ranked as some of the best you could buy, and, of course, they double up as generally excellent options for work and studies. Because let's be honest, if a keyboard doesn't feel good for actual typing, then is it even doing its job?
We already praised the Huntsman V3 Pro as "the world's most advanced gaming keyboard", and for now, the downside of its high price has been solved as the tenkeyless (TKL) model drops to $124.99 at Best Buy. Compared to its original MSRP of $219.99, it's instantly a much more tempting pick.
That $95 price drop stands alongside a discount on the full-size variant that we tested, bringing that to $180.74 with a much more specific $69.25 discount. Either way, you'll gain access to Snap Tap, Razer's solution for perfect counter-strafing in FPS games that prioritizes the most recently pressed button.
Personally, I prefer to ditch the numberpad for more desk space, so the TKL is perfect for me. It's also enjoying a bigger discount right now, making it even better value.View Deal
No compromises for larger desks; this gives you everything. "The Huntsman V3 Pro is one of the best keyboards I've ever used." — Zachary Boddy, Former Staff Writer — Windows Central review: ⭐⭐⭐⭐View Deal
What makes the Huntsman V3 Pro so good?
Razer throws in a wrist rest alongside its wealth of extra keys. (Image credit: Windows Central | Zachary Boddy)
Adjustable actuation is one of those phrases that crops up around keyboards, and it's a feature that shines when you have the time to dig into it. Essentially, you can change the depth at which the optical switches underneath the keys detect a valid press, usually opting for shallow pushes during gaming and more deliberate, deeper pushes for typing.
If you're into tweaking and personalization, you'll get a lot out of it by fine-tuning the actuation and saving it to one of the on-board memory profile slots. That, paired with its brushed aluminum chassis and double-shot PBT textured keys for more durable lettering, makes for a comfortable typing experience.
On the flip side, we noted in our (full-size) Razer Huntsman V3 Pro review that the leatherette wrist rest isn't perfect, but it is magnetic, so if you'd rather use it only for typing and remove it for a night of gaming, it's easy to detach. I'd recommend giving it a fair try, as it's generally better to use something to support your wrists than nothing at all, but your mileage may vary.
Overall, this discount makes the Huntsman V3 Pro, whether TKL or full-size, an absolute bargain. Even if you don't make use of all the extra dials at first, diving into customization would help you assign them to your most-used features soon after. It's a quality wired keyboard that works just as hard for daily typing, so you could probably argue it's a back-to-school expense if you tried.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Huntsman V3 Pro wired or wireless?
This is a wired gaming keyboard with a braided USB Type-C to USB Type-A cable. It can be detached and replaced with a longer variant, but the keyboard will not operate wirelessly.
What's the difference between full-size and TKL?
A full-size keyboard includes a number pad and is what you might think of as a "standard" model. TKL stands for tenkeyless, and it drops the numeric keypad to save space while retaining the arrow keys and the home/end keys.
Is this a mechanical keyboard?
The Huntsman V3 Pro does not use mechanical switches; instead, it features optical key switches that operate like magnetic Hall-Effect sensors found in popular joypads to support its adjustable actuation.
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In an age where the best laptops are being price-gauged for everything they're worth thanks to AI eating all our RAM and memory, sometimes laptops we never took a shine to can end up being smarter financial alternatives, provided they have redeeming qualities and discounts to back them up.
One such flawed but capable laptop is the 16-inch, 2-in-1 Lenovo Yoga 7i, a laptop that doesn't quite get the "2-in-1" part right but makes up for it with all-day battery life, a strong SSD for fast boot-up times and decent storage space, and more enticing features that are now 20% off for $799.99 at Best Buy (was $999.99).
"Lenovo's 16-inch Yoga 7i 2-in-1 has strong positives for travelers who refuse to compromise on screen size and would benefit from a transforming screen." ~ Ben Wilson, Senior Editor
Side view of the Lenovo Yoga 7i 16-inch 2-in-1 laptop. (Image credit: Ben Wilson | Windows Central)
Now, the Lenovo Yoga 7i 2-in-1 16-inch isn't the greatest laptop in the world. When our laptop expert, Ben Wilson reviewed it, he remarked that its "sub-par IPS panel prevents its tablet mode from appealing to creatives who demand accurate color reproduction."
Plus, no bundled-in stylus pen combined with a stiff screen hinge makes the laptop's tablet mode not as useful or enjoyable compared to its competition.
However, that doesn't mean the Lenovo Yoga 7i 2-in-1 is worthless, as it has plenty of redeeming qualities.
It features above-average performance rates for crushing productivity tasks thanks to its Intel Core Ultra 5 Processor (2024) and 16GB RAM, a 512GB SSD to help store vital data files and boot its systems quickly, a 70Wh battery that will last over thirteen hours, and solid Wi-Fi 7 connectivity to ensure you never lose connection with the internet and never wait forever for web pages to load.
It's also got a built-in fingerprint scanner that acts as a secondary security measure for your precious work files, a 2K touchscreen with 60Hz refresh rates and 1080p resolution so you can view documents and spreadsheets with clear clarity, and competent performance rates for tackling AI-related tasks thanks to its integrated Copilot+ feature and a Neural Processing Unit capable of 40 TOPS.
So if you're looking for a reliable mid-range laptop that won't cost you over $1,000 to tackle work reports or school exams while travelling, the Lenovo Yoga 7i 2-in-1 that's now 20% off at Best could be the best unlikely weapon you didn't know you needed for slaying productivity backlogs.
FAQ
Is its RAM and SSD upgradeable?
The Lenovo Yoga 7i 2-in-1 16-inch laptop's pre-installed 16GB RAM can't be upgraded, as it's soldered into the motherboard. Its 512GB SSD, on the other hand, can be replaced and upgraded with a larger one via its M.2 2242 4.0 x4 slot.
Can it play video games?
It can play extremely light video games like Minecraft or Roblox, but don't expect the Lenovo Yoga 7i 2-in-1 16-inch laptop to run intensive AAA PC games like Cyberpunk 2077, as it wasn't built for that purpose.
What ports does it include?
The Lenovo Yoga 7i 2-in-1 16-inch laptop features two Thunderbolt 4 USB-C ports, a USB-A 3.2 Gen 1 port, a HDMI-out 1.4b port, a microSD card reader slot, and a combo audio jack port.
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Microsoft has removed Windows Learning Center guidance that described 32GB of RAM as ideal or a “no-worries” choice for serious Windows 11 gaming. The reversal comes as memory prices rise and Microsoft sells new 8GB Surface configurations that do not meet the company’s 16GB Copilot+ PC requirement.
NVMe’s refreshed specifications let locally attached PCIe SSDs expose virtualized storage identities that can move with a VM, reducing the need for storage reconfiguration during live migration. The update also adds post-quantum cryptography support, controller-level rate limiting, and new device health controls.
The ASUS Zenbook A16 is not a gaming laptop, but what if it were a gaming desktop? One YouTuber sought to find out what happens when you connect an eGPU to the Zenbook A16. The results are surprising and show a promising potential future for gaming on Arm processors.
Connecting the Zenbook A16 is not something for the faint of heart. Until recently, it was not possible to connect any GPU to a Snapdragon X-powered laptop, even if you were willing to use unofficial methods.
ETA Prime connected an RTX 4060 to a Zenbook A16 using the developer driver for RTX Spark. That GPU is also from NVIDIA, and its driver can be installed on a PC like the Zenbook A16 to connect an RTX 4060.
Obviously the setup is not official or optimized, but it does work to an extent. Some other NVIDIA GPUs were also successfully connected, but ETA Prime saw the best performance with the RTX 4060.
The Zenbook A16 was able to hit impressive framerates and settings when connected to the RTX 4060.
In ETA Prime's video, you'll see Forza Horizon 6, Cyberpunk 2077, Project Cars 2, and DOOM: The Dark Ages at very respectable framerates and settings.
Hitting those framerates often required frame generation, but gameplay looks smooth. In Cyberpunk 2077, ETA Prime was able to hit the low 40s at high settings without frame generation and the low 70s with frame generation.
Experimentation by ETA Prime and Ghobso Gaming (who tested Halo: Campaign Evolved) shows that Snapdragon X2 chips are capable of playing games. But those processors lack support and optimization.
If drivers ship and game developers embrace Snapdragon X-powered PCs, we could see a significant jump in gaming on Windows 11 on Arm.
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The FCC is preparing a rule that could block new Chinese-made optical transceivers from entering the United States, potentially reshaping the hardware supply chain behind AI data centers. Officials reportedly want the restriction published before the end of 2026, but it could still be changed or abandoned.
Connexion
